Humeral elevation reduces the dynamic control ratio of the shoulder muscles during internal rotation.

PubMed

Howard, William; Burgess, Jonathan; Vrhovnik, Borut; Stringer, Christian; Choy, Sherrie T; Marsden, Jonathan F; Gedikoglou, Ingrid A; Shum, Gary L

2017-04-01

To determine the differences in the dynamic control ratio of the glenohumeral joint rotators, during internal rotation at 20° and 60° of humeral elevation in the scapular plan. Dynamic control ratio (DCR) is defined as the ratio between eccentric action of the lateral rotators and the concentric action of the medial rotators. A cross-sectional laboratory study. Thirty asymptomatic participants (men n=14, women n=16, mean age=29.4±8.9years, BMI: 24.1±5.4) were tested. Peak torque generated by the concentric action of the MR and the eccentric action of the LR of the shoulder joint and the DCR were evaluated on the dominant arm using an isokinetic dynamometer at 20° and 60° of humeral elevation at a speed of 20°/s. There was a significant decrease in the DCR at 60° humeral elevation when compared to 20° humeral elevation (p<0.05). This decrease was due to the significant decrease in eccentric peak torques at 60° humeral elevation when compared to 20° (p<0.05). However, there was no significant difference in the concentric peak torques between 20° and 60° (p>0.05). The significant decrease in the DCR as a consequence of a decrease in the eccentric peak torque of the LR when the humerus is in a more elevated position suggests that the introduction of humeral elevation can be used as a progression for improving the eccentric action of the shoulder LR and subsequently the dynamic control of the shoulder. Copyright © 2016 Sports Medicine Australia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Comparison of shoulder strength in males with and without myofascial trigger points in the upper trapezius.

PubMed

Kim, H A; Hwang, U J; Jung, S H; Ahn, S H; Kim, J H; Kwon, O Y

2017-11-01

This study was conducted in order to compare the strength of scapular elevator and shoulder abductor with and without restricted scapular elevation between male subjects with and without myofascial trigger points in the upper trapezius. In total, 15 male subjects with myofascial trigger points, and 15age- and weight-matched male subjects without myofascial trigger points in the upper trapezius. Each subject was measured in the strength of maximum isometric scapular elevation and shoulder abduction with and without restricted scapular elevation. Maximum isometric contractions were measured using the Smart KEMA strength measurement system. Independent t-tests were used to compare shoulder strength values between the myofascial trigger points and non- myofascial trigger points groups. The results showed that shoulder abductor strength in the group with myofascial trigger points (5.64kgf) was significantly lower than in the group without myofascial trigger points (11.96kgf) when scapular elevation was restricted (p<0.05). However, there was no significant difference in the strength of the scapular elevator or shoulder abductor between groups (p>0.05). These findings suggest that decreased strength in the shoulder abductor with restricted scapular elevation should be considered in evaluating and treating individuals with myofascial trigger points of the upper trapezius. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Jew's mellow leaves (Corchorus olitorius) suppress elevation of postprandial blood glucose levels in rats and humans.

PubMed

Innami, Satoshi; Ishida, Hiroshi; Nakamura, Kahoru; Kondo, Mika; Tabata, Kimiko; Koguchi, Takashi; Shimizu, Jun; Furusho, Tadasu

2005-01-01

The study was performed to explore the suppressive effect of Jew's mellow leaves (JML) on postprandial blood glucose levels in rats and humans. A soluble dietary fiber (SDF) was extracted from the freeze-dried JML powder. An elevation of the postprandial blood glucose level in rats given 1% or 2% JML-SDF solution orally together with 20% glucose solution was significantly suppressed as compared with that observed in the control rats given only glucose solution. When seven healthy young male adults ingested 225 mL of JML mixed juice containing 15 g of freeze-dried powder with 75 g of glucose in the fasting state in the morning, the elevation of the postprandial blood glucose level was significantly suppressed as compared with the control subjects. The diffusion rate of glucose and the permeation rate of glucose in the cultured Caco-2 cells were both significantly reduced by the addition of appropriate amounts of JML-SDF when compared to the controls. These results indicate that the effective substance in JML for suppressing blood glucose elevation is a kind of mucilaginous SDF. The mechanism by which this suppression occurs may be largely attributable to the delayed absorption of glucose from the intestinal membrane in the upper digestive tract by viscous SDF.

Clinical course in Parkinson's disease with elevated homocysteine.

PubMed

O'Suilleabhain, Padraig E; Oberle, Robert; Bartis, Cristina; Dewey, Richard B; Bottiglieri, Teodoro; Diaz-Arrastia, Ramon

2006-03-01

Elevated homocysteine (Hcy), prevalent in Parkinson's disease (PD), is potentially a modifiable risk factor for neurologic deterioration. We measured cognitive, affective and motor changes over 2 years in a cohort of people with early PD. Subjects whose Hcy had been elevated (>14 micromol/L, n = 31) at baseline were compared with the rest (n = 66). Overall progression in 2 years did not significantly differ (p = 0.20). Four subjects with elevated and one with normal Hcy had died (p = 0.03). We conclude that hyperhomocysteinemia does not predict significantly worse progression over 2 years in early PD. The data raised the possibility of higher mortality, but the number of deaths was small.

Elevated atmospheric CO₂ mitigated photoinhibition in a tropical tree species, Gmelina arborea.

PubMed

Rasineni, Girish Kumar; Guha, Anirban; Reddy, Attipalli Ramachandra

2011-05-03

Effects of elevated CO₂ on photosynthetic CO₂ assimilation, PSII photochemistry and photoinhibition were investigated in the leaves of a fast growing tropical tree species, Gmelina arborea (Verbenaceae) during summer days of peak growth season under natural light. Elevated CO₂ had a significant effect on CO₂ assimilation rates and maximal efficiency of PSII photochemistry. Chlorophyll a fluorescence induction kinetics were measured to determine the influence of elevated CO₂ on PSII efficiency. During midday, elevated CO₂-grown Gmelina showed significantly higher net photosynthesis (p<0.001) and greater F(V)/F(M) (p<0.001) than those grown under ambient CO₂. The impact of elevated CO₂ on photosynthetic rates and Chl a fluorescence were more pronounced during midday depression where the impact of high irradiance decreased in plants grown under elevated CO₂ compared to ambient CO₂-grown plants. Our results clearly demonstrate that decreased susceptibility to photoinhibition in elevated CO₂ grown plants was associated with increased accumulation of active PSII reaction centers and efficient photochemical quenching. We conclude that elevated CO₂ treatment resulted in easy diminution of midday photosynthetic depression. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Dietary deficiency of vitamin E aggravates retinal ganglion cell death in experimental glaucoma of rats.

PubMed

Ko, Mei-Lan; Peng, Pai-Huei; Hsu, Shens-Yao; Chen, Chau-Fong

2010-09-01

Investigate the effect of dietary vitamin E (Vit E) on the retinas of a rat model of induced glaucoma, in which surgically induced elevation of intraocular pressure (IOP) is associated with an increase in reactive oxygen species. Rats were fed a standard chow, Vit E-supplemented diet, or Vit E-deficient diet and subjected to surgically induced IOP elevation (or sham surgery) for five weeks. The retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) were subjected to retrograde fluorescent tracer labeling. The mean number of RGCs of rats on the standard chow, Vit E-supplemented diet, and Vit E-deficient diet were 79.6%, 78.6%, and 71.3% of controls, respectively. Lipid peroxidation of the retinas of rats given a Vit E-deficient diet were significantly higher after IOP elevation for three days (14.42 +/- 0.25 microM, P = 0.016) and five weeks (10.46 +/- 0.11 microM, p = 0.042), compared to rats given standard chow (11.37 +/- 0.31 microM; 8.95 +/- 0.16 microM). Compared with rats given standard chow, rats given a Vit E-deficient diet had significantly elevated concentrations of glutathione (p = 0.032), but no significant differences in the levels of total superoxide dismutase (SOD), Cu/Zn SOD, or catalase activities three days after IOP elevation. Rats fed a Vit E-deficient diet with surgically induced IOP elevation experience significantly more RGC death than rats fed a normal diet. This phenomenon may be related to the increased level of lipid peroxidation in Vit E-deficient rats.

Growth, reproductive phenology and yield responses of a potential biofuel plant, Jatropha curcas grown under projected 2050 levels of elevated CO2.

PubMed

Kumar, Sumit; Chaitanya, Bharatula S K; Ghatty, Sreenivas; Reddy, Attipalli R

2014-11-01

Jatropha (Jatropha curcas) is a non-edible oil producing plant which is being advocated as an alternative biofuel energy resource. Its ability to grow in diverse soil conditions and minimal requirements of essential agronomical inputs compared with other oilseed crops makes it viable for cost-effective advanced biofuel production. We designed a study to investigate the effects of elevated carbon dioxide concentration ([CO(2)]) (550 ppm) on the growth, reproductive development, source-sink relationships, fruit and seed yield of J. curcas. We report, for the first time that elevated CO(2) significantly influences reproductive characteristics of Jatropha and improve its fruit and seed yields. Net photosynthetic rate of Jatropha was 50% higher in plants grown in elevated CO(2) compared with field and ambient CO(2) -grown plants. The study also revealed that elevated CO(2) atmosphere significantly increased female to male flower ratio, above ground biomass and carbon sequestration potential in Jatropha (24 kg carbon per tree) after 1 year. Our data demonstrate that J. curcas was able to sustain enhanced rate of photosynthesis in elevated CO(2) conditions as it had sufficient sink strength to balance the increased biomass yields. Our study also elucidates that the economically important traits including fruit and seed yield in elevated CO(2) conditions were significantly high in J. curcas that holds great promise as a potential biofuel tree species for the future high CO(2) world. © 2014 Scandinavian Plant Physiology Society.

Effect of particle size on calcium release and elevation of pH of endodontic cements.

PubMed

Saghiri, Mohammad Ali; Asatourian, Armen; Orangi, Jafar; Lotfi, Mehrdad; Soukup, Jason W; Garcia-Godoy, Franklin; Sheibani, Nader

2015-06-01

Elevation of pH and calcium ion release are of great importance in antibacterial activity and the promotion of dental soft and hard tissue healing process. In this study, we evaluated the effect of particle size on the elevation of pH and the calcium ion release from calcium silicate-based dental cements. Twelve plastic tubes were divided into three groups, filled with white mineral trioxide aggregate (WMTA), WMTA plus 1% methylcellulose, and nano-modified WMTA (nano-WMTA), and placed inside flasks containing 10 ml of distilled water. The pH values were measured using a pH sensor 3, 24, 72, and 168 h after setting of the cements. The calcium ion release was measured using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer with same sample preparation method. Data were subjected to two-way analysis of variance (anova) followed by post hoc Tukey tests with significance level of P < 0.05. Nano-WMTA showed significant pH elevation only after 24 h (P < 0.05) compared with WMTA, and after 3, 24, and 72 h compared with WMTA plus 1% methylcellulose (P < 0.05). Nano-WMTA showed significantly higher calcium ion release values compared to the other two groups (P < 0.05). Nano-modification of WMTA remarkably increased the calcium ion release at all time intervals postsetting, which can significantly influence the osteogenic properties of human dental pulp cells and as a consequence enhance mineralized matrix nodule formation to achieve desirable clinical outcomes. However, the increase in pH values mainly occurred during the short time postsetting. Addition of 1% methylcellulose imposed a delay in elevation of pH and calcium ion release by WMTA. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Risk of Liver Toxicity with Nivolumab Immunotherapy in Cancer Patients.

PubMed

Zarrabi, Kevin; Wu, Shenhong

2018-01-01

Nivolumab is approved for the treatment of many cancers. This meta-analysis was conducted to determine the risk of hepatotoxicity with nivolumab therapy. An analysis from all phase I-III clinical trials up to December 2016 examining nivolumab was conducted. Data on elevations in aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) were extracted from the safety profiles of each trial. Incidence and relative risk (RR) were calculated using random- or fixed-effects models with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The incidences of all-grade and high-grade elevations in AST were 5.4% (95% CI 3.2-9.1) and 1.6% (95% CI 0.9-3.0), respectively. The incidences of all-grade and high-grade elevations in ALT were 4.9% (95% CI 2.9-8.2) and 1.7% (95% CI 0.9-3.1), respectively. Elevations of both laboratory markers were significantly increased when compared to control (p < 0.001). Nivolumab significantly increased the RR of AST/ALT elevations; RRs were 1.58 (95% CI 1.1-2.2) for all-grade AST elevation, and 1.62 (95% CI 1.2-2.3) for all-grade ALT elevation. Subgroup analysis of all-grade AST or ALT elevation revealed a signi-ficant variation among tumor types (p < 0.001) and with combination with ipilimumab (p < 0.001). Nivolumab is associated with significantly increased risk of liver toxicity. © 2018 S. Karger AG, Basel.

The role of elevated serum procalcitonin in neuroendocrine neoplasms of digestive system.

PubMed

Chen, Luohai; Zhang, Yu; Lin, Yuan; Deng, Langhui; Feng, Shiting; Chen, Minhu; Chen, Jie

2017-12-01

Elevated serum procalcitonin (PCT) was reported in patients with certain type of neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs). The aim of this study was to assess the role of elevated serum PCT in NENs from digestive system. Serum PCT and serum CgA level were measured in 155 patients with NENs from digestive system. Elevated serum PCT was found in 63 patients (40.6%). Grade 3 disease was a significant factor associated with elevated serum PCT (OR, 9.24; 95%CI, 3.04-28.08; P<0.001). Serum PCT level was significantly decreased after treatment both in patients with stable disease (P=0.003) and patients with partial remission (P=0.001). In these patients, serum PCT level significantly increased again at the time of progression disease (P=0.001). Elevated serum PCT was a significant factor of worse survival (HR, 2.86; 95%CI, 1.36-6.03; P=0.006). Compared with patients with normal serum PCT and CgA level, patients with either PCT or CgA elevated and patients with both PCT and CgA elevated had progressively worse survival. Additionally, PCT expression in tumor cells was found in 24.0% of patients but did not correlate with other clinicopathological factors, including serum PCT. Serum PCT is elevated in part of patients with NENs of digestive system, especially in patients with grade 3 disease. Serum PCT level can help evaluate treatment response and its elevation indicates poor prognosis. Combination of serum PCT and CgA can improve outcome prediction. Copyright © 2017 The Canadian Society of Clinical Chemists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Risk factors and outcomes of sepsis-induced myocardial dysfunction and stress-induced cardiomyopathy in sepsis or septic shock: A comparative retrospective study.

PubMed

Jeong, Han Saem; Lee, Tae Hyub; Bang, Cho Hee; Kim, Jong-Ho; Hong, Soon Jun

2018-03-01

While both sepsis-induced myocardial dysfunction (SIMD) and stress-induced cardiomyopathy (SICMP) are common in patients with sepsis, the pathogenesis of the 2 diseases is different, and they require different treatment strategies. Thus, we aimed to investigate risk factors and outcomes between the 2 diseases.This retrospective study enrolled patients diagnosed with sepsis or septic shock, admitted to intensive care unit via emergency department in Korea University Anam Hospital, and who underwent transthoracic echocardiography within the first 24 hours of admission.In all, 25 patients with SIMD and 27 patients with SICMP were enrolled. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and a history of heart failure (HF) were more prevalent in both the SIMD and SICMP groups than in the control group. In the SIMD and SICMP groups, levels of inflammatory cytokines were similar. Serum troponin level was significantly elevated in the SICMP and SIMD group compared to the control group. N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT pro-BNP) level was significantly elevated in the SIMD group compared to the SICMP group or control group. The in-hospital mortality rate in the SIMD and SICMP group was about 40%, showing increased trends compared with the control group. The in-hospital mortality rate was significantly increased in SIMD group with EF<30% than in SICMP group with EF<30%. In multiple logistic regression analysis, a past history of diabetes mellitus (DM) and HF was significantly associated with the incidence of SIMD. Younger age, elevated levels of NT pro-BNP, and positive result of blood culture also showed significant odds ratio regard to the occurrence of SIMD. However, only elevated lactate and troponin level were positively associated with the incidence of SICMP.The SIMD and SICMP had different risk factors. The risk factors of SIMD were younger age, history of DM, history of HF, elevated NT pro-BNP, and positive result of blood culture. The elevated levels of lactate and troponin were identified as risk factors of SICMP. More importantly, in-hospital mortality rate from SIMD and SICMP showed increased trend and worse outcome in SIMD group with reduced EF<30%. Thus, developing SIMD or SICMP reflected poor prognosis in sepsis or septic shock.

Exposure to Upper Arm Elevation During Work Compared to Leisure Among 12 Different Occupations Measured with Triaxial Accelerometers.

PubMed

Palm, Peter; Gupta, Nidhi; Forsman, Mikael; Skotte, Jørgen; Nordquist, Tobias; Holtermann, Andreas

2018-06-26

Regarding prevention of neck and shoulder pain (NSP), unsupported arm elevation is one factor that should be taken into account when performing work risk assessment. Triaxial accelerometers can be used to measure arm elevation over several days but it is not possible to differentiate between supported and unsupported arm elevation from accelerometers only. Supported arm elevation is more likely to exist during sitting than standing. The aim of the study was to evaluate the use of whole workday measurements of arm elevation with accelerometers to assess potentially harmful work exposure of arm elevation, by comparing arm elevation at work with arm elevation during leisure, in a population with diverse work tasks, and to assess how the exposure parameters were modified when upper arm elevation during sitting time was excluded. The participants, 197 workers belonging to 12 occupational groups with diverse work tasks, wore triaxial accelerometers on the dominant arm, hip, and back for 1-4 days to measure arm elevation and periods of sitting. None of the groups were found to have higher exposure to arm elevation during work compared to leisure. Even though some occupations where known to have work tasks that forced them to work with elevated arms to a large extent. A high proportion of arm elevation derived from sitting time, especially so during leisure. When arm elevation during sitting time was excluded from the analysis, arm elevation was significantly higher at work than during leisure among construction workers, garbage collectors, manufacturing workers, and domestic cleaners. Together this illustrates that it is not suitable to use whole workday measurments of arm elevation with accelerometer as a sole information source when assessing the risk for NSP due to arm elevation. Information on body posture can provide relevant contextual information in exposure assessments when it is known that the potential harmful exposure is performed in standing or walking.

Effects of elevated CO2 on fine root dynamics in a Mojave Desert community: A FACE study

USGS Publications Warehouse

Phillips, D.L.; Johnson, M.G.; Tingey, D.T.; Catricala, C.E.; Hoyman, T.L.; Nowak, R.S.

2006-01-01

Fine roots (??? 1mm diameter) are critical in plant water and nutrient absorption, and it is important to understand how rising atmospheric CO2 will affect them as part of terrestrial ecosystem responses to global change. This study's objective was to determine effects of elevated CO2 on production, mortality, and standing crops of fine root length over 2 years in a free-air CO2 enrichment (FACE) facility in the Mojave Desert of southern Nevada, USA. Three replicate 25m diameter FACE rings were maintained at ambient (??? 370 ??mol mol-1) and elevated CO2 (??? 550 ??mol mol-1) atmospheric concentrations. Twenty-eight minirhizotron tubes were placed in each ring to sample three microsite locations: evergreen Larrea shrubs, drought-deciduous Ambrosia shrubs, and along systematic community transects (primarily in shrub interspaces which account for ??? 85% of the area). Seasonal dynamics were similar for ambient and elevated CO2: fine root production peaked in April-June, with peak standing crop occurring about 1 month later, and peak mortality occurring during the hot summer months, with higher values for all three measures in a wet year compared with a dry year. Fine root standing crop, production, and mortality were not significantly different between treatments except standing crop along community transects, where fine root length was significantly lower in elevated CO2. Fine root turnover (annual cumulative mortality/mean standing crop) ranged from 2.33 to 3.17 year-1, and was not significantly different among CO2 treatments, except for community transect tubes where it was significantly lower for elevated CO2. There were no differences in fine root responses to CO2 between evergreen (Larrea) and drought-deciduous (Ambrosia) shrubs. Combined with observations of increased leaf-level water-use efficiency and lack of soil moisture differences, these results suggest that under elevated CO2 conditions, reduced root systems (compared with ambient CO2) appear sufficient to provide resources for modest aboveground production increases across the community, but in more fertile shrub microsites, fine root systems of comparable size with those in ambient CO2 were required to support the greater aboveground production increases. For community transects, development of the difference in fine root standing crops occurred primarily through lower stimulation of fine root production in the elevated CO2 treatment during periods of high water availability. ?? 2005 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Growth, yield and quality attributes of a tropical potato variety (Solanum tuberosum L. cv Kufri chandramukhi) under ambient and elevated carbon dioxide and ozone and their interactions.

PubMed

Kumari, Sumita; Agrawal, Madhoolika

2014-03-01

The present study was designed to study the growth and yield responses of a tropical potato variety (Solanum tuberosum L. cv. Kufri chandramukhi) to different levels of carbon dioxide (382 and 570ppm) and ozone (50 and 70ppb) in combinations using open top chambers (OTCs). Plants were exposed to three ozone levels in combination with ambient CO2 and two ozone levels at elevated CO2. Significant increments in leaf area and total biomass were observed under elevated CO2 in combination with ambient O3 (ECO2+AO3) and elevated O3 (ECO2+EO3), compared to the plants grown under ambient concentrations (ACO2+AO3). Yield measured as fresh weight of potato also increased significantly under ECO2+AO3 and ECO2+EO3. Yield, however, reduced under ambient (ACO2+AO3) and elevated ozone (ACO2+EO3) compared to ACO2 (filtered chamber). Number, fresh and dry weights of tubers of size 35-50mm and>50mm used for direct consumption and industrial purposes, respectively increased maximally under ECO2+AO3. Ambient as well as elevated levels of O3 negatively affected the growth parameters and yield mainly due to reductions in number and weight of tubers of sizes >35mm. The quality of potato tubers was also modified under different treatments. Starch content increased and K, Zn and Fe concentrations decreased under ECO2+AO3 and ECO2+EO3 compared to ACO2+AO3. Starch content reduced under ACO2+AO3 and ACO2+EO3 treatments compared to ACO2. These results clearly suggest that elevated CO2 has provided complete protection to ambient O3 as the potato yield was higher under ECO2+AO3 compared to ACO2. However, ambient CO2 is not enough to protect the plants under ambient O3 levels. Elevated CO2 also provided protection against elevated O3 by improving the yield. Quality of tubers is modified by both CO2 and O3, which have serious implications on human health at present and in future. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Comparison of Head Elevation Protocols Following Femoral Artery Sheath Removal After Coronary Angiography.

PubMed

Olson, Nancy C

2016-06-01

To compare 2 standard protocols for head elevation following removal of a femoral artery sheath after coronary angiography and their effects on bleeding complications and reported levels of back pain. One protocol involved flat supine bed rest; the other allowed progressive head elevation. A prospective comparative study of 80 adult patients undergoing coronary angiography via the femoral approach. The Numeric Rating Scale was used as the measure of reported pain. No bleeding complications occurred in either group. Both groups had very low mean pain scores. Repeated-measures analysis demonstrated that the experience of pain differed significantly over time by location (F5,70 = 3.864, P = .004), with a notable decrease in pain scores more than 1 hour after sheath removal at the location that used the progressive head elevation protocol. Patients' satisfaction scores after discharge did not differ significantly between the 2 groups. Patients with a history of chronic back pain had consistently higher pain scores, but those pain scores did not differ significantly by location (or protocol). It appears that using a progressive head-elevation protocol within the first 3 hours after diagnostic angiography is not associated with an increased risk of bleeding complications at the access site and warrants further exploration in the mitigation of back pain associated with prolonged supine bed rest. ©2016 American Association of Critical-Care Nurses.

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal community composition affected by original elevation rather than translocation along an altitudinal gradient on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Wei; Zheng, Yong; Gao, Cheng; Duan, Ji-Chuang; Wang, Shi-Ping; Guo, Liang-Dong

2016-11-01

Elucidating arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungal responses to elevation changes is critical to improve understanding of microbial function in ecosystems under global asymmetrical climate change scenarios. Here we examined AM fungal community in a two-year reciprocal translocation of vegetation-intact soil blocks along an altitudinal gradient (3,200 m to 3,800 m) in an alpine meadow on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. AM fungal spore density was significantly higher at lower elevation than at higher elevation regardless of translocation, except that this parameter was significantly increased by upward translocation from original 3,200 m to 3,400 m and 3,600 m. Seventy-three operational taxonomic units (OTUs) of AM fungi were recovered using 454-pyrosequencing of 18S rDNA sequences at a 97% sequence similarity. Original elevation, downward translocation and upward translocation did not significantly affect AM fungal OTU richness. However, with increasing altitude the OTU richness of Acaulosporaceae and Ambisporaceae increased, but the OTU richness of Gigasporaceae and Glomeraceae decreased generally. The AM fungal community composition was significantly structured by original elevation but not by downward translocation and upward translocation. Our findings highlight that compared with the short-term reciprocal translocation, original elevation is a stronger determinant in shaping AM fungal community in the Qinghai-Tibet alpine meadow.

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal community composition affected by original elevation rather than translocation along an altitudinal gradient on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.

PubMed

Yang, Wei; Zheng, Yong; Gao, Cheng; Duan, Ji-Chuang; Wang, Shi-Ping; Guo, Liang-Dong

2016-11-09

Elucidating arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungal responses to elevation changes is critical to improve understanding of microbial function in ecosystems under global asymmetrical climate change scenarios. Here we examined AM fungal community in a two-year reciprocal translocation of vegetation-intact soil blocks along an altitudinal gradient (3,200 m to 3,800 m) in an alpine meadow on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. AM fungal spore density was significantly higher at lower elevation than at higher elevation regardless of translocation, except that this parameter was significantly increased by upward translocation from original 3,200 m to 3,400 m and 3,600 m. Seventy-three operational taxonomic units (OTUs) of AM fungi were recovered using 454-pyrosequencing of 18S rDNA sequences at a 97% sequence similarity. Original elevation, downward translocation and upward translocation did not significantly affect AM fungal OTU richness. However, with increasing altitude the OTU richness of Acaulosporaceae and Ambisporaceae increased, but the OTU richness of Gigasporaceae and Glomeraceae decreased generally. The AM fungal community composition was significantly structured by original elevation but not by downward translocation and upward translocation. Our findings highlight that compared with the short-term reciprocal translocation, original elevation is a stronger determinant in shaping AM fungal community in the Qinghai-Tibet alpine meadow.

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal community composition affected by original elevation rather than translocation along an altitudinal gradient on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau

PubMed Central

Yang, Wei; Zheng, Yong; Gao, Cheng; Duan, Ji-Chuang; Wang, Shi-Ping; Guo, Liang-Dong

2016-01-01

Elucidating arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungal responses to elevation changes is critical to improve understanding of microbial function in ecosystems under global asymmetrical climate change scenarios. Here we examined AM fungal community in a two-year reciprocal translocation of vegetation-intact soil blocks along an altitudinal gradient (3,200 m to 3,800 m) in an alpine meadow on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. AM fungal spore density was significantly higher at lower elevation than at higher elevation regardless of translocation, except that this parameter was significantly increased by upward translocation from original 3,200 m to 3,400 m and 3,600 m. Seventy-three operational taxonomic units (OTUs) of AM fungi were recovered using 454-pyrosequencing of 18S rDNA sequences at a 97% sequence similarity. Original elevation, downward translocation and upward translocation did not significantly affect AM fungal OTU richness. However, with increasing altitude the OTU richness of Acaulosporaceae and Ambisporaceae increased, but the OTU richness of Gigasporaceae and Glomeraceae decreased generally. The AM fungal community composition was significantly structured by original elevation but not by downward translocation and upward translocation. Our findings highlight that compared with the short-term reciprocal translocation, original elevation is a stronger determinant in shaping AM fungal community in the Qinghai-Tibet alpine meadow. PMID:27827400

Measurement of amino acid levels in the vitreous humor of rats after chronic intraocular pressure elevation or optic nerve transection.

PubMed

Levkovitch-Verbin, Hana; Martin, Keith R G; Quigley, Harry A; Baumrind, Lisa A; Pease, Mary Ellen; Valenta, Danielle

2002-10-01

To investigate whether the levels of free amino acids and protein in the vitreous of rat eyes are altered with chronic intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation or after optic nerve transection. The concentrations of 20 amino acids in the vitreous humor were measured by high-performance liquid chromatography in both eyes of 41 rats with unilateral IOP elevation induced by translimbal photocoagulation. Eyes were studied 1 day and 1, 2, 4, and 9 weeks after initial IOP elevation. The same amino acids were measured in 41 rats 1 day and 2, 4, and 9 weeks after unilateral transection of the orbital optic nerve. The intravitreal protein level was assayed in additional 22 rats with IOP elevation and 12 rats after nerve transection. Two masked observers evaluated the amount of optic nerve damage with a semiquantitative, light-microscopic technique. In rats with experimental glaucoma, amino acid concentrations were unchanged 1 day after treatment. At 1 week, 4 of 20 amino acids (aspartate, proline, alanine, and lysine) were higher than in control eyes ( < or = 0.01), but this difference was nonsignificant after Bonferroni correction for multiple simultaneous amino acid comparisons (none achieved < 0.0025). No amino acid was significantly different from control in the nerve transection groups (all > 0.05). Vitreous protein level was significantly higher in glaucomatous eyes than their paired controls at 1 day ( < 0.0001) and 1 week ( < 0.002). One day and 1 week after optic nerve transection, vitreal proteins were significantly elevated compared with control eyes from untreated animals ( < 0.0020 and < 0.0022, respectively), though not compared with their fellow eyes ( = 0.25 and 0.10). Chronic experimental glaucoma and transection of the optic nerve increase the amount of protein in the rat vitreous above control levels. In the vitreous of rats with experimental glaucoma, a number of free amino acids were transiently elevated to a modest degree, but no significant difference in vitreous glutamate concentration was detected ( > 0.01).

Optimization of the precordial leads of the 12-lead electrocardiogram may improve detection of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction.

PubMed

Scott, Peter J; Navarro, Cesar; Stevenson, Mike; Murphy, John C; Bennett, Johan R; Owens, Colum; Hamilton, Andrew; Manoharan, Ganesh; Adgey, A A Jennifer

2011-01-01

For the assessment of patients with chest pain, the 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) is the initial investigation. Major management decisions are based on the ECG findings, both for attempted coronary artery revascularization and risk stratification. The aim of this study was to determine if the current 6 precordial leads (V(1)-V(6)) are optimally located for the detection of ST-segment elevation in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). We analyzed 528 (38% anterior [200], 44% inferior [233], and 18% lateral [95]) patients with STEMI with both a 12-lead ECG and an 80-lead body surface map (BSM) ECG (Prime ECG, Heartscape Technologies, Bangor, Northern Ireland). Body surface map was recorded within 15 minutes of the 12-lead ECG during the acute event and before revascularization. ST-segment elevation of each lead on the BSM was compared with the corresponding 12-lead precordial leads (V(1)-V(6)) for anterior STEMI. In addition, for lateral STEMI, leads I and aVL of the BSM were also compared; and limb leads II, III, aVF of the BSM were compared with inferior unipolar BSM leads for inferior STEMI. Leads with the greatest mean ST-segment elevation were selected, and significance was determined by analysis of variance of the mean ST segment. For anterior STEMI, leads V(1), V(2), 32, 42, 51, and 57 had the greatest mean ST elevation. These leads are located in the same horizontal plane as that of V(1) and V(2). Lead 32 had a significantly greater mean ST elevation than the corresponding precordial lead V(3) (P = .012); and leads 42, 51, and 57 were also significantly greater than corresponding leads V(4), V(5), V(6), respectively (P < .001). Similar findings were also found for lateral STEMI. For inferior STEMI, the limb leads of the BSM (II, III, and aVF) had the greatest mean ST-segment elevation; and lead III was significantly superior to the inferior unipolar leads (7, 17, 27, 37, 47, 55, and 61) of the BSM (P < .001). Leads placed on a horizontal strip, in line with leads V(1) and V(2), provided the optimal placement for the diagnosis of anterior and lateral STEMI and appear superior to leads V(3), V(4), V(5), and V(6). This is of significant clinical interest, not only for ease and replication of lead placement but also may lead to increased recruitment of patients eligible for revascularization with none or borderline ST-segment elevation on the initial 12-lead ECG. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Serum osteoprotegerin is increased and predicts survival in idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension

PubMed Central

Condliffe, Robin; Pickworth, Josephine A.; Hopkinson, Kay; Walker, Sara J.; Hameed, Abdul G.; Suntharaligam, Jay; Soon, Elaine; Treacy, Carmen; Pepke-Zaba, Joanna; Francis, Sheila E.; Crossman, David C.; Newman, Christopher M. H.; Elliot, Charles A.; Morton, Allison C.; Morrell, Nicholas W.; Kiely, David G.; Lawrie, Allan

2012-01-01

We previously reported that osteoprotegerin (OPG) is regulated by pathways associated with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), and is present at elevated levels within pulmonary vascular lesions and sera from patients with idiopathic PAH (IPAH). Since OPG is a naturally secreted protein, we investigated the relationship between serum OPG and disease severity and outcome in patients with IPAH and animal models. OPG mRNA expression was measured in pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMC) from pulmonary arteries of patients with and without IPAH. Serum concentrations of OPG were measured in a retrospective and prospective group of patients. OPG levels were compared with phenotypic data and other putative PAH biomarkers. Prognostic significance was assessed and levels compared with healthy controls. Correlation of OPG and pulmonary vascular remodeling was also performed in rodent models of PAH. OPG mRNA was significantly increased 2-fold in PASMC isolated from explanted PAH lungs compared with control. Serum OPG concentrations were markedly elevated in IPAH compared with controls. In Cohort 1 OPG levels significantly correlated with mean right atrial pressure and cardiac index, while in Cohort 2 significant correlations existed between age-adjusted OPG levels and gas transfer. In both cohorts an OPG concentration above a ROC-derived threshold of 4728 pg/ml predicted poorer survival. In two rodent models, OPG correlated with the degree of pulmonary vascular remodeling. OPG levels are significantly elevated in patients with idiopathic PAH and are of prognostic significance. The role of OPG as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target merits further investigation. PMID:22558516

Using blood cytokine measures to define high inflammatory biotype of schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder.

PubMed

Boerrigter, Danny; Weickert, Thomas W; Lenroot, Rhoshel; O'Donnell, Maryanne; Galletly, Cherrie; Liu, Dennis; Burgess, Martin; Cadiz, Roxanne; Jacomb, Isabella; Catts, Vibeke S; Fillman, Stu G; Weickert, Cynthia Shannon

2017-09-18

Increases in pro-inflammatory cytokines are found in the brain and blood of people with schizophrenia. However, increased cytokines are not evident in all people with schizophrenia, but are found in a subset. The cytokine changes that best define this subset, termed the "elevated inflammatory biotype", are still being identified. Using quantitative RT-PCR, we measured five cytokine mRNAs (IL-1β, IL-2 IL-6, IL-8 and IL-18) from peripheral blood of healthy controls and of people with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder (n = 165). We used a cluster analysis of the transcript levels to define those with low and those with elevated levels of cytokine expression. From the same cohort, eight cytokine proteins (IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12, IFNγ and TNFα) were measured in serum and plasma using a Luminex Magpix-based assay. We compared peripheral mRNA and protein levels across diagnostic groups and between those with low and elevated levels of cytokine expression according to our transcription-based cluster analysis. We found an overall decrease in the anti-inflammatory IL-2 mRNA (p = 0.006) and an increase in three serum cytokines, IL-6 (p = 0.010), IL-8 (p = 0.024) and TNFα (p < 0.001) in people with schizophrenia compared to healthy controls. A greater percentage of people with schizophrenia (48%) were categorised into the elevated inflammatory biotype compared to healthy controls (33%). The magnitude of increase in IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8 and IL-10 mRNAs in people in the elevated inflammation biotype ranged from 100 to 220% of those in the non-elevated inflammatory biotype and was comparable between control and schizophrenia groups. Blood cytokine protein levels did not correlate with cytokine mRNA levels, and plasma levels of only two cytokines distinguished the elevated and low inflammatory biotypes, with IL-1β significantly increased in the elevated cytokine control group and IL-8 significantly increased in the elevated cytokine schizophrenia group. Our results confirm that individuals with schizophrenia are more likely to have elevated levels of inflammation compared to controls. We suggest that efforts to define inflammatory status based on peripheral measures need to consider both mRNA and protein measures as each have distinct advantages and disadvantages and can yield different results.

Systematic review of decreased intracranial pressure with optimal head elevation in postcraniotomy patients: a meta-analysis.

PubMed

Jiang, Yan; Ye, Zeng pan-pan; You, Chao; Hu, Xin; Liu, Yi; Li, Hao; Lin, Sen; Li, Ji-Pin

2015-10-01

To determine an optimal head elevation degree to decrease intracranial pressure in postcraniotomy patients by meta-analysis. A change in head position can lead to a change in intracranial pressure; however, there are conflicting data regarding the optimal degree of elevation that decreases intracranial pressure in postcraniotomy patients. Quantitative systematic review with meta-analysis following Cochrane methods. The data were collected during 2014; three databases (PubMed, Embase and China National Knowledge Internet) were searched for published and unpublished studies in English. The bibliographies of the articles were also reviewed. The inclusion criteria referred to different elevation degrees and effects on intracranial pressure in postcraniotomy patients. According to pre-determined inclusion criteria and exclusion criteria, two reviewers extracted the eligible studies using a standard data form. These included a total of 237 participants who were included in the meta-analysis. (1) Compared with 0 degree: 10, 15, 30 and 45 degrees of head elevation resulted in lower intracranial pressure. (2) Intracranial pressure at 30 degrees was not significantly different in comparison to 45 degrees and was lower than that at 10 and 15 degrees. Patients with increased intracranial pressure significantly benefitted from a head elevation of 10, 15, 30 and 45 degrees compared with 0 degrees. A head elevation of 30 or 45 degrees is optimal for decreasing intracranial pressure. Research about the relationship of position changes and the outcomes of patient primary diseases is absent. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Increased plasma cathepsin S and trombospondin-1 in patients with acute ST segment elevation myocardial infarction.

PubMed

Befekadu, Rahel; Christiansen, Kjeld; Larsson, Anders; Grenegård, Magnus

2018-04-03

The role of cathepsins in the pathological progression of atherosclerotic lesions in ischemic heart disease have been defined in detail more than numerous times. This investigation examined the platelet-specific biomarker trombospondin-1 (TSP-1) and platelet function ex vivo, and compared this with cathepsin S (Cat-S; a biomarker unrelated to platelet activation but also associated this with increased mortality risk) in patients with ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). The STEMI patients were divided into two groups depending on the degree of coronary vessel occlusion: those with closed (n = 90) and open culprit vessel (n = 40). Cat-S and TSP-1 were analyzed before, 1-3 days after and 3 months after percutanous coronary intervention (PCI). During acute STEMI, plasma TSP-1 was significantly elevated in patients with closed culprit lesions, but rapidly declined after PCI. In fact, TSP-1 after PCI was significantly lower inpatient samples compared to healthy individuals. In comparison, plasma Cat-S was significantly elevated both before and after PCI. In patients with closed culprit lesions, Cat-S was significantly higher compared to patients with open culprit lesions 3 months after PCI. Although troponin-I were higher (p < 0.01) in patients with closed culprit lesion, there was no correlation with Cat-S and TSP-1. Cat-S but not TSP-1 may be a useful risk biomarker in relation to the severity of STEMI. However, the causality of Cat-S as a predictor for long-term mortality in STEMI remains to be ascertained in future studies.

Calculation and Error Analysis of a Digital Elevation Model of Hofsjokull, Iceland from SAR Interferometry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Barton, Jonathan S.; Hall, Dorothy K.; Sigurosson, Oddur; Williams, Richard S., Jr.; Smith, Laurence C.; Garvin, James B.

1999-01-01

Two ascending European Space Agency (ESA) Earth Resources Satellites (ERS)-1/-2 tandem-mode, synthetic aperture radar (SAR) pairs are used to calculate the surface elevation of Hofsjokull, an ice cap in central Iceland. The motion component of the interferometric phase is calculated using the 30 arc-second resolution USGS GTOPO30 global digital elevation product and one of the ERS tandem pairs. The topography is then derived by subtracting the motion component from the other tandem pair. In order to assess the accuracy of the resultant digital elevation model (DEM), a geodetic airborne laser-altimetry swath is compared with the elevations derived from the interferometry. The DEM is also compared with elevations derived from a digitized topographic map of the ice cap from the University of Iceland Science Institute. Results show that low temporal correlation is a significant problem for the application of interferometry to small, low-elevation ice caps, even over a one-day repeat interval, and especially at the higher elevations. Results also show that an uncompensated error in the phase, ramping from northwest to southeast, present after tying the DEM to ground-control points, has resulted in a systematic error across the DEM.

Calculation and error analysis of a digital elevation model of Hofsjokull, Iceland, from SAR interferometry

USGS Publications Warehouse

Barton, Jonathan S.; Hall, Dorothy K.; Sigurðsson, Oddur; Williams, Richard S.; Smith, Laurence C.; Garvin, James B.; Taylor, Susan; Hardy, Janet

1999-01-01

Two ascending European Space Agency (ESA) Earth Resources Satellites (ERS)-1/-2 tandem-mode, synthetic aperture radar (SAR) pairs are used to calculate the surface elevation of Hofsjokull, an ice cap in central Iceland. The motion component of the interferometric phase is calculated using the 30 arc-second resolution USGS GTOPO30 global digital elevation product and one of the ERS tandem pairs. The topography is then derived by subtracting the motion component from the other tandem pair. In order to assess the accuracy of the resultant digital elevation model (DEM), a geodetic airborne laser-altimetry swath is compared with the elevations derived from the interferometry. The DEM is also compared with elevations derived from a digitized topographic map of the ice cap from the University of Iceland Science Institute. Results show that low temporal correlation is a significant problem for the application of interferometry to small, low-elevation ice caps, even over a one-day repeat interval, and especially at the higher elevations. Results also show that an uncompensated error in the phase, ramping from northwest to southeast, present after tying the DEM to ground-control points, has resulted in a systematic error across the DEM.

Changes in highly sensitive alpha-fetoprotein for the prediction of the outcome in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma after hepatectomy.

PubMed

Toyoda, Hidenori; Kumada, Takashi; Tada, Toshifumi; Ito, Takanori; Maeda, Atsuyuki; Kaneoka, Yuji; Kagebayashi, Chiaki; Satomura, Shinji

2014-06-01

We investigated changes in highly sensitive lens culinaris agglutinin A-reactive fraction of alpha-fetoprotein (hsAFP-L3) measured using a novel method and its predictive ability for prognosis in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) who underwent curative hepatectomy, comparing to other HCC tumor markers, that is, AFP, des-gamma-carboxy prothrombin (DCP), and AFP-L3 measured with conventional method (cAFP-L3). AFP, DCP, and AFP-L3 including both cAFP-L3 and hsAFP-L3 were measured before and after curative hepatectomy in 187 patients. The percentage of patients with elevated tumor marker levels pre- and postoperatively was compared, and recurrence-free and overall survival rates were analyzed based on changes in tumor markers. The percentages of patients with elevated AFP, DCP, and cAFP-L3 decreased postoperatively. In contrast, the percentage of patients with elevated hsAFP-L3 did not decrease postoperatively. Both recurrence-free and overall survival rates were significantly lower in patients whose tumor marker levels remained elevated postoperatively than patients without tumor marker elevation postoperatively. Recurrence-free and overall survival rates of patients in whom hsAFP-L3 became elevated postoperatively despite normal preoperative hsAFP-L3 levels were significantly lower than those of patients with normal hsAFP-L3 postoperatively, and were similar to those of patients with persistent elevation. Preoperative elevations of AFP, DCP, and cAFP normalized in many patients postoperatively, but not for hsAFP-L3. The elevation of hsAFP-L3 identifies patients with poor prognosis despite the normalization of AFP and DCP. © 2014 The Authors. Cancer Medicine published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Mean Cancer Mortality Rates in Low Versus High Elevation Counties in Texas

PubMed Central

Hart, John

2010-01-01

There is controversy as to whether low levels of radiation (i.e., < 5 rem) pose a health risk. This brief inquiry compares archived cancer mortality data in counties having relatively low (0–250 feet above sea level), medium (500–1000 feet above sea level), and high (3000+ feet above sea level) elevations also having corresponding greater natural background levels of radiation respectively. Cancer mortality was found to be lowest in the high elevation counties (mean = 58.2) followed by low elevation counties (67.5) and then medium elevation counties (70.4). Statistically significant differences were found between low –high elevations (p = 0.003), and medium – high elevations (p = 0.010), but not between low and medium elevations (p = 0.5). More rigorous research, with an accounting of confounding variables, is indicated. PMID:21191484

The Prevalence of Obesity and Elevated Blood Pressure in Adolescent Student Athletes From the State of Mississippi

PubMed Central

Stiefel, Eric C.; Field, Larry; Replogle, William; McIntyre, Louis; Igboechi, Oduche; Savoie, Felix H.

2016-01-01

Background: Over the past 30 years, there has been a dramatic increase in the prevalence of childhood obesity and hypertension in the United States. The prevalence of these diagnoses among individuals participating in school-sanctioned sports has not been clearly defined. Purpose: To identify the prevalence of obesity and elevated blood pressure (BP) among student athletes and investigate associations between race, sex, type and number of sports played, and the prevalence of these diseases. Study Design: Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: Pre–sports participation medical examinations (N = 7705) performed between 2009 and 2013 were reviewed to identify the prevalence of obesity and elevated BP and examine relationships between the type of sports played, participation in multiple sports versus a single sport, and the athlete’s body weight and body mass index (BMI). Results: The prevalence of obesity was 23.5%. There was a significant association (P < .001) between the number of sports played by the student and BMI. The risk of obesity among single-sport athletes was more than 2-fold the risk (relative risk [RR], 2.13) compared with ≥3-sport athletes and 1.42 times greater compared with 2-sport athletes (RR, 1.42). The prevalence of elevated BP was 21.2%. There was a significant association (P < .001) between the number of sports played by the student and elevated BP. The risk of elevated BP among single-sport athletes was 1.59 times greater (RR, 1.59) than ≥3-sport athletes and 1.30 times greater compared with 2-sport athletes (RR, 1.30). Finally, obese students were 2.40 times more likely to have elevated BP compared with nonobese students (P < .001). Conclusion: The result of this study confirms the progressive nature of the obesity epidemic and identifies the contribution of obesity to the worsening cardiometabolic profiles in student athletes. The study also identifies that participation in multiple sports and running sports decreases the individual’s risk for obesity and hypertension. Clinical Relevance: The present study emphasizes the importance of screening for obesity and elevated blood pressure during the athlete’s preparticipation physical examination. PMID:26962540

Competitive interactions between native and invasive exotic plant species are altered under elevated carbon dioxide.

PubMed

Manea, Anthony; Leishman, Michelle R

2011-03-01

We hypothesized that the greater competitive ability of invasive exotic plants relative to native plants would increase under elevated CO(2) because they typically have traits that confer the ability for fast growth when resources are not limiting and thus are likely to be more responsive to elevated CO(2). A series of competition experiments under ambient and elevated CO(2) glasshouse conditions were conducted to determine an index of relative competition intensity for 14 native-invasive exotic species-pairs. Traits including specific leaf area, leaf mass ratio, leaf area ratio, relative growth rate, net assimilation rate and root weight ratio were measured. Competitive rankings within species-pairs were not affected by CO(2) concentration: invasive exotic species were more competitive in 9 of the 14 species-pairs and native species were more competitive in the remaining 5 species-pairs, regardless of CO(2) concentration. However, there was a significant interaction between plant type and CO(2) treatment due to reduced competitive response of native species under elevated compared with ambient CO(2) conditions. Native species had significantly lower specific leaf area and leaf area ratio under elevated compared with ambient CO(2). We also compared traits of more-competitive with less-competitive species, regardless of plant type, under both CO(2) treatments. More-competitive species had smaller leaf weight ratio and leaf area ratio, and larger relative growth rate and net assimilation rate under both ambient and elevated CO(2) conditions. These results suggest that growth and allocation traits can be useful predictors of the outcome of competitive interactions under both ambient and elevated CO(2) conditions. Under predicted future atmospheric CO(2) conditions, competitive rankings among species may not change substantially, but the relative success of invasive exotic species may be increased. Thus, under future atmospheric CO(2) conditions, the ecological and economic impact of some invasive exotic plants may be even greater than under current conditions.

Spring leaf flush in aspen (Populus tremuloides) clones is altered by long-term growth at elevated carbon dioxide and elevated ozone concentration.

PubMed

McGrath, Justin M; Karnosky, David F; Ainsworth, Elizabeth A

2010-04-01

Early spring leaf out is important to the success of deciduous trees competing for light and space in dense forest plantation canopies. In this study, we investigated spring leaf flush and how long-term growth at elevated carbon dioxide concentration ([CO(2)]) and elevated ozone concentration ([O(3)]) altered leaf area index development in a closed Populus tremuloides (aspen) canopy. This work was done at the Aspen FACE experiment where aspen clones have been grown since 1997 in conditions simulating the [CO(2)] and [O(3)] predicted for approximately 2050. The responses of two clones were compared during the first month of spring leaf out when CO(2) fumigation had begun, but O(3) fumigation had not. Trees in elevated [CO(2)] plots showed a stimulation of leaf area index (36%), while trees in elevated [O(3)] plots had lower leaf area index (-20%). While individual leaf area was not significantly affected by elevated [CO(2)], the photosynthetic operating efficiency of aspen leaves was significantly improved (51%). There were no significant differences in the way that the two aspen clones responded to elevated [CO(2)]; however, the two clones responded differently to long-term growth at elevated [O(3)]. The O(3)-sensitive clone, 42E, had reduced individual leaf area when grown at elevated [O(3)] (-32%), while the tolerant clone, 216, had larger mature leaf area at elevated [O(3)] (46%). These results indicate a clear difference between the two clones in their long-term response to elevated [O(3)], which could affect competition between the clones, and result in altered genotypic composition in future atmospheric conditions. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

The incidence of maxillary sinus membrane perforation during endoscopically assessed crestal sinus floor elevation: a pilot study.

PubMed

Garbacea, Antoanela; Lozada, Jaime L; Church, Christopher A; Al-Ardah, Aladdin J; Seiberling, Kristin A; Naylor, W Patrick; Chen, Jung-Wei

2012-08-01

Transcrestal sinus membrane elevation is a surgical procedure performed to increase the bone volume in the maxillary sinus cavity. Because of visual limitations, the potential for maxillary sinus membrane perforations may be greater than with the lateral approach technique. The aim of this study was to macroscopically investigate ex vivo the occurrence of sinus membrane perforation during surgery using 3 transcrestal sinus floor elevation methods. Twenty fresh human cadaver heads, with 40 intact sinuses, were used for simultaneous sinus membrane elevation, placement of graft material, and dental implants. Real-time sinus endoscopy, periapical digital radiographs, and cone-beam computerized tomography (CBCT) images were subsequently used to evaluate the outcome of each surgical procedure. Perforation rates for each of the 3 techniques were then compared using a significance level of P < .05. No statistically significant differences in the perforation rate (P = .79) were found among the 3 surgical techniques. Although the sinus endoscope noted a higher frequency of perforations at the time of implant placement as compared with instrumentation or graft insertion, the difference was not statistically significant (P = .04). The CBCT readings were judged to be more accurate for identifying evidence of sinus perforations than the periapical radiographs when compared with the direct visualization with the endoscope. This pilot study demonstrated that a sinus membrane perforation can occur at any time during the sinus lift procedure, independent of the surgical method used.

Impacts of Elevated Atmospheric CO 2 and O 3 on Paper Birch ( Betula papyrifera ): Reproductive Fitness

DOE PAGES

Darbah, Joseph N. T.; Kubiske, Mark E.; Nelson, Neil; ...

2007-01-01

Atmospheric CO 2 and tropospheric O 3 are rising in many regions of the world. Little is known about how these two commonly co-occurring gases will affect reproductive fitness of important forest tree species. Here, we report on the long-term effects of CO 3 and O 3 for paper birch seedlings exposed for nearly their entire life history at the Aspen FACE (Free Air Carbon Dioxide Enrichment) site in Rhinelander, WI. Elevated CO 2 increased both male and female flower production, while elevated O 3 increased female flower production compared to trees in control rings. Interestingly, very little flowering hasmore » yet occurred in combined treatment. Elevated CO 2 had significant positive effect on birch catkin size, weight, and germination success rate (elevated CO 2 increased germination rate of birch by 110% compared to ambient CO 2 concentrations, decreased seedling mortality by 73%, increased seed weight by 17%, increased root length by 59%, and root-to-shoot ratio was significantly decreased, all at 3 weeks after germination), while the opposite was true of elevated O 3 (elevated O 3 decreased the germination rate of birch by 62%, decreased seed weight by 25%, and increased root length by 15%). Under elevated CO 2 , plant dry mass increased by 9 and 78% at the end of 3 and 14 weeks, respectively. Also, the root and shoot lengths, as well as the biomass of the seedlings, were increased for seeds produced under elevated CO 2 , while the reverse was true for seedlings from seeds produced under the elevated O 3 . Similar trends in treatment differences were observed in seed characteristics, germination, and seedling development for seeds collected in both 2004 and 2005. Our results suggest that elevated CO 2 and O 3 can dramatically affect flowering, seed production, and seed quality of paper birch, affecting reproductive fitness of this species.« less

Impacts of elevated atmospheric CO2 and O3 on paper birch (Betula papyrifera): reproductive fitness.

PubMed

Darbah, Joseph N T; Kubiske, Mark E; Nelson, Neil; Oksanen, Elina; Vaapavuori, Elina; Karnosky, David F

2007-03-21

Atmospheric CO2 and tropospheric O3 are rising in many regions of the world. Little is known about how these two commonly co-occurring gases will affect reproductive fitness of important forest tree species. Here, we report on the long-term effects of CO2 and O3 for paper birch seedlings exposed for nearly their entire life history at the Aspen FACE (Free Air Carbon Dioxide Enrichment) site in Rhinelander, WI. Elevated CO2 increased both male and female flower production, while elevated O3 increased female flower production compared to trees in control rings. Interestingly, very little flowering has yet occurred in combined treatment. Elevated CO2 had significant positive effect on birch catkin size, weight, and germination success rate (elevated CO2 increased germination rate of birch by 110% compared to ambient CO2 concentrations, decreased seedling mortality by 73%, increased seed weight by 17%, increased root length by 59%, and root-to-shoot ratio was significantly decreased, all at 3 weeks after germination), while the opposite was true of elevated O3 (elevated O3 decreased the germination rate of birch by 62%, decreased seed weight by 25%, and increased root length by 15%). Under elevated CO2, plant dry mass increased by 9 and 78% at the end of 3 and 14 weeks, respectively. Also, the root and shoot lengths, as well as the biomass of the seedlings, were increased for seeds produced under elevated CO2, while the reverse was true for seedlings from seeds produced under the elevated O3. Similar trends in treatment differences were observed in seed characteristics, germination, and seedling development for seeds collected in both 2004 and 2005. Our results suggest that elevated CO2 and O3 can dramatically affect flowering, seed production, and seed quality of paper birch, affecting reproductive fitness of this species.

Changes in Sinus Membrane Thickness After Lateral Sinus Floor Elevation: A Radiographic Study.

PubMed

Makary, Christian; Rebaudi, Alberto; Menhall, Abdallah; Naaman, Nada

2016-01-01

To radiographically monitor sinus membrane swelling after lateral sinus floor elevation surgery at short and long healing periods. For 26 patients seeking posterior maxillary implant-supported reconstruction, 32 lateral sinus floor elevations were performed using Piezosurgery. Sinus membranes were grafted using synthetic calcium phosphate bone substitutes, and graft volume was measured in cubic centimeters for each case. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) examination was conducted preoperatively in all patients and for each grafted sinus at 1 day (n = 8), 2 days (n = 9), 3 days (n = 8), or 7 days (n = 7) after surgery. Control CBCT was then performed for all patients at 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery. Sinus membrane thickness was measured on cross-sectional CBCT images at nine standardized points per sinus, before lateral sinus floor elevation and at all postoperative examinations. Mean sinus membrane thickness was 0.73 mm before surgery, and 5 mm, 4.1 mm, 5.9 mm, and 7 mm, respectively, at 1, 2, 3, and 7 days after surgery. First week combined postoperative CBCT measurements of membrane thickness was 5.4 mm, then 1.3, 0.68, and 0.39 mm at 3, 6, and 12 months, respectively, after surgery. Membrane thickness significantly increased the first week after surgery and gradually decreased significantly at 3, 6, and 12 months in all groups (P < .001). First-week postoperative measurements showed a significant increase in membrane thickness at 3 days compared with the 1- and 2-day results (P < .001) and at 7 days compared with all other time points (P < .001). Membrane thickness at 2 days did not change significantly compared with 1-day measurements. Larger graft volume was positively correlated with an increase in membrane thickness after surgery at all time points (n = 32; r = 0.527; P < .001). After lateral sinus floor elevation surgery, transient swelling of sinus membrane is observed. It reaches a peak value 7 days after surgery and completely resolves over months. This swelling is correlated to the extent of sinus floor elevation.

A retrospective comparison of two vaginal mesh kits in the management of anterior and apical vaginal prolapse: long-term results for apical fixation and quality of life.

PubMed

Lamblin, Gery; Gouttenoire, Chloé; Panel, Laure; Moret, Stéphanie; Chene, Gautier; Courtieu, Christophe

2016-12-01

To compare apical correction in stage ≥3 cystocele between two mesh kits. This was a retrospective, nonrandomized study that compared two groups matched on anterior/apical POP-Q stage: 84 received Elevate Ant™ single-incision mesh (Elevate Ant group) and 42 Perigee™ transvaginal mesh (Perigee group). Follow-up at 1 and 2 years comprised objective (POP-Q) and subjective (PFDI-20, PFIQ-7, PISQ-12) assessments. The primary endpoint was objective success: 2-year apical POP-Q stage ≤1. Secondary endpoints were anterior POP-Q stage, subjective results and complications. Groups were comparable in terms of age (66.6 and 64.7 years, respectively; p = 0.19), BMI (both 25.4 kg/m 2 ; p = 0.93), and history of hysterectomy (7.2 % and 14.3 %; p = 0.21) or prolapse surgery (12 % and 14.3 %; p = 0.72). Operative time was shorter in the Elevate Ant group (54.1 vs. 62.5 min; p = 0.048), and the 2-year objective apical success rate was higher (92.9 % vs. 66.7 %; p < 0.0001), with better point C correction (-5 vs. -3.8; p = 0.006). Function improved in both groups, with significantly better PFIQ-7 (p = 0.03) and PFDI-20 (p = 0.02) scores in the Elevate Ant group at 2 years. Vaginal exposure was not seen in the Elevate Ant group but occurred in two patients in the Perigee group (p = 0.33). Factors associated with success were age >65 years (OR 7.16, 95 % CI 1.83 - 27.97) and treatment with Elevate Ant mesh (OR 10.16, 95 % CI 2.78 - 37.14). Postoperative stress urinary incontinence rate was greater with the Elevate Ant group (29.8 % and 16.7 %; p = 0.11). The use of the Elevate Ant mesh was associated with significantly better apical correction at 2 years. Function improved in both groups, but with a significantly better PFDI-20 score in the Elevate Ant group at 1 and 2 years. The postoperative stress urinary incontinence rate, however, tended to be greater in the Elevate Ant group. The results need confirming with longer follow-up of these cohorts and in randomized studies.

Elevated cortisol levels in Cushing's disease are associated with cognitive decrements.

PubMed

Starkman, M N; Giordani, B; Berent, S; Schork, M A; Schteingart, D E

2001-01-01

The objective of this study was to use Cushing's disease as a unique human model to elucidate the cognitive deficits resulting from exposure to chronic stress-level elevations of endogenous cortisol. Forty-eight patients with a first episode of acute, untreated Cushing's disease and 38 healthy control subjects were studied. Scores for four of five verbal IQ subtests were significantly lower in patients with Cushing's disease; their scores were significantly lower for only one nonverbal performance IQ subtest (block design). Verbal, but not visual, learning and delayed recall at 30 minutes were significantly decreased among patients with Cushing's disease. Although verbal delayed recall was significantly lower in these patients, the retention index (percentage), which compares the amount of initially learned material to that recalled after the delay, was not significantly decreased. There was no significant association between depression scores and cognitive performance. A higher degree of cortisol elevation was associated with poorer performance on several subtests of learning, delayed recall, and visual-spatial ability. Chronically elevated levels of glucocorticoids have deleterious effects on particular domains of cognition. Verbal learning and other verbal functions seem more vulnerable than nonverbal functions. The results suggest that both the neocortex and hippocampus are affected.

Comparison of piezosurgery and conventional rotative instruments in direct sinus lifting.

PubMed

Delilbasi, Cagri; Gurler, Gokhan

2013-12-01

The purpose of this study was to compare the intraoperative and postoperative effects of Piezosurgery and conventional rotative instruments in direct sinus lifting procedure. Twenty-three patients requiring direct sinus lifting were enrolled. The osteotomy and sinus membrane elevation were performed either with Piezosurgery tips or rotative diamond burs and manual membrane elevators. Time elapsed between bony window opening and completion of membrane elevation (duration), incidence of membrane perforation, visibility of the operation site, postoperative pain, swelling, sleeping, eating, phonetics, daily routine, and missed work as well as patient's expectation before and experience after the operation were evaluated. There was no significant difference between Piezosurgery and conventional groups regarding incidence of membrane perforation, duration, and operation site visibility as well as patient's expectation before and experience after the operation (P > 0.05). However, there were significantly more pain and swelling in the conventional group compared with the Piezosurgery group (P ≤ 0.05). Sinus lifting procedure performed with Piezosurgery causes less pain and swelling postoperatively compared with conventional technique. Patients' daily life activities and experience about the operation are not affected from the surgical technique.

Cognitive impairment in systemic lupus erythematosus women with elevated autoantibodies and normal single photon emission computerized tomography.

PubMed

Peretti, Charles-Siegfried; Peretti, Charles Roger; Kozora, Elizabeth; Papathanassiou, Dimitri; Chouinard, Virginie-Anne; Chouinard, Guy

2012-01-01

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is known to induce psychiatric disorders, from psychoses to maladaptive coping. Brain autoantibodies were proposed to explain SLE neuropsychiatric disorders and found to be elevated before the onset of clinical symptoms. We assessed cognition in Caucasian SLE women with elevated autoantibodies without overt neuropsychiatric syndromes, in conjunction with single photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT). 31 women meeting SLE criteria of the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) were included. Patients who met the ACR neuropsychiatric definition were excluded. Matched controls were 23 healthy women from the Champagne-Ardenne region, France. Participants completed neuropsychological and autoantibodies measurements, and 19 completed SPECT. 61% (19/31) of women with SLE and 53% (9/17) of those with normal SPECT had significant global cognitive impairment defined as 4 T-scores <40 in cognitive tests, compared to 0% (0/23) of controls. SLE women also had significantly greater cognitive dysfunction (mean T-score) on the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) visual backspan, Trail Making Test A and B, WAIS Digit Symbol Substitution Test and Stroop Interference, compared to controls. Elevated antinuclear antibody correlated with impairment in the WAIS visual span, WAIS visual backspan, and cancellation task; elevated anti-double-stranded DNA antibody and anticardiolipin correlated respectively with impairment in the Trail Making Test A and WAIS auditive backspan. Two SLE women had abnormal SPECT. A high prevalence of cognitive deficits was found in Caucasian SLE women compared to normal women, which included impairment in cognitive domains important for daily activities. Elevated autoantibodies tended to correlate with cognitive dysfunction. Copyright © 2012 S. Karger AG, Basel.

[Influence of elevated atmospheric CO2 concentration on photosynthesis and leaf nitrogen partition in process of photosynthetic carbon cycle in Musa paradisiaca].

PubMed

Sun, G; Zhao, P; Zeng, X; Peng, S

2001-06-01

The photosynthetic rate (Pn) in leaves of Musa paradisiaca grown under elevated CO2 concentration (700 +/- 56 microliters.L-1) for one week was 5.14 +/- 0.32 mumol.m-2.s-1, 22.1% higher than that under ambient CO2 concentration, while under elevated CO2 concentration for 8 week, the Pn decreased by 18.1%. It can be inferred that the photosynthetic acclimation to elevated CO2 concentration and the Pn inhibition occurred in leaves of M. paradisiaca. The respiration rate in light (Rd) was lower in leaves under higher CO2 concentration, compared with that under ambient CO2 concentration. If the respiration in light was not included, the difference in CO2 compensation point for the leaves of both plants was not significant. Under higher CO2 concentration for 8 weeks, the maximum carboxylation rate(Vcmax) and electron transportation rate (J) in leaves decreased respectively by 30.5% and 14.8%, compared with that under ambient CO2 concentration. The calculated apparent quantum yield (alpha) in leaves under elevated CO2 concentration according to the initial slope of Pn/PAR was reduced to 0.014 +/- 0.010 molCO2.mol-1 quanta, compared with the value of 0.025 +/- 0.005 molCO2.mol-1 quanta in the control. The efficiency of light energy conversion also decreased from 0.203 to 0.136 electrons.quanta-1 in plants under elevated CO2 concentration. A lower partitioning coefficient for leaf nitrogen in Rubisco, bioenergetics and thylakoid light-harvesting components was observed in plants under higher CO2 concentration. The results indicated that the multi-process of photosynthesis was suppressed significantly by a long-term (8 weeks) higher CO2 concentration incubation.

The different role of each head of the triceps brachii muscle in elbow extension.

PubMed

Kholinne, Erica; Zulkarnain, Rizki Fajar; Sun, Yu Cheng; Lim, SungJoon; Chun, Jae-Myeung; Jeon, In-Ho

2018-03-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the functional role of each head of the triceps brachii muscle, depending on the angle of shoulder elevation, and to compare each muscle force and activity by using a virtual biomechanical simulator and surface electromyography. Ten healthy participants (8 males and 2 females) were included in this study. The mean age was 29.2 years (23-45). Each participant performed elbow extension tasks in five different degrees (0, 45, 90, 135, and 180°) of shoulder elevation with three repetitions. Kinematics data and surface electromyography signal of each head of the triceps brachii were recorded. Recorded kinematics data were then applied to an inverse kinematics musculoskeletal modeling software function (OpenSim) to analyze the triceps brachii's muscle force. Correlation between muscle force, muscle activity, elbow extension, and shoulder elevation angle were compared and analyzed for each head of triceps brachii. At 0° shoulder elevation, the long head of the triceps brachii generates a significantly higher muscle force and muscle activation than the lateral and medial heads (p < 0.05). While at 90°, 135° and 180° shoulder elevation, the medial head of the triceps brachii showed a significantly higher muscle force than the long and the lateral heads (p < 0.05). Each head of the triceps brachii has a different pattern of force and activity during different shoulder elevations. The long head contributes to elbow extension more at shoulder elevation and the medial head takes over at 90° and above of shoulder elevation. This study provides further understanding of triceps brachii's for clinicians and health trainers who need to investigate the functional role of the triceps brachii in detail. Copyright © 2018. Production and hosting by Elsevier B.V.

Elevated troponin predicts long-term adverse cardiovascular outcomes in hypertensive crisis: a retrospective study.

PubMed

Pattanshetty, Deepak J; Bhat, Pradeep K; Aneja, Ashish; Pillai, Dilip P

2012-12-01

Hypertensive crisis is associated with poor clinical outcomes. Elevated troponin, frequently observed in hypertensive crisis, may be attributed to myocardial supply-demand mismatch or obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD). However, in patients presenting with hypertensive crisis and an elevated troponin, the prevalence of CAD and the long-term adverse cardiovascular outcomes are unknown. We sought to assess the impact of elevated troponin on cardiovascular outcomes and evaluate the role of troponin as a predictor of obstructive CAD in patients with hypertensive crisis. Patients who presented with hypertensive crisis (n = 236) were screened retrospectively. Baseline and follow-up data including the event rates were obtained using electronic patient records. Those without an assay for cardiac Troponin I (cTnI) (n = 65) were excluded. Of the remaining 171 patients, those with elevated cTnI (cTnI ≥ 0.12 ng/ml) (n = 56) were compared with those with normal cTnI (cTnI < 0.12 ng/ml) (n = 115) at 2 years for the occurrence of major adverse cardiac or cerebrovascular events (MACCE) (composite of myocardial infarction, unstable angina, hypertensive crisis, pulmonary edema, stroke or transient ischemic attack). At 2 years, MACCE occurred in 40 (71.4%) patients with elevated cTnI compared with 44 (38.3%) patients with normal cTnI [hazard ratio: 2.77; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.79-4.27; P < 0.001]. Also, patients with elevated cTnI were significantly more likely to have underlying obstructive CAD (odds ratio: 8.97; 95% CI: 1.4-55.9; P < 0.01). In patients with hypertensive crisis, elevated cTnI confers a significantly greater risk of long-term MACCE, and is a strong predictor of obstructive CAD.

Risk factors and outcomes of sepsis-induced myocardial dysfunction and stress-induced cardiomyopathy in sepsis or septic shock

PubMed Central

Jeong, Han Saem; Lee, Tae Hyub; Bang, Cho Hee; Kim, Jong-Ho; Hong, Soon Jun

2018-01-01

Abstract While both sepsis-induced myocardial dysfunction (SIMD) and stress-induced cardiomyopathy (SICMP) are common in patients with sepsis, the pathogenesis of the 2 diseases is different, and they require different treatment strategies. Thus, we aimed to investigate risk factors and outcomes between the 2 diseases. This retrospective study enrolled patients diagnosed with sepsis or septic shock, admitted to intensive care unit via emergency department in Korea University Anam Hospital, and who underwent transthoracic echocardiography within the first 24 hours of admission. In all, 25 patients with SIMD and 27 patients with SICMP were enrolled. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and a history of heart failure (HF) were more prevalent in both the SIMD and SICMP groups than in the control group. In the SIMD and SICMP groups, levels of inflammatory cytokines were similar. Serum troponin level was significantly elevated in the SICMP and SIMD group compared to the control group. N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT pro-BNP) level was significantly elevated in the SIMD group compared to the SICMP group or control group. The in-hospital mortality rate in the SIMD and SICMP group was about 40%, showing increased trends compared with the control group. The in-hospital mortality rate was significantly increased in SIMD group with EF<30% than in SICMP group with EF<30%. In multiple logistic regression analysis, a past history of diabetes mellitus (DM) and HF was significantly associated with the incidence of SIMD. Younger age, elevated levels of NT pro-BNP, and positive result of blood culture also showed significant odds ratio regard to the occurrence of SIMD. However, only elevated lactate and troponin level were positively associated with the incidence of SICMP. The SIMD and SICMP had different risk factors. The risk factors of SIMD were younger age, history of DM, history of HF, elevated NT pro-BNP, and positive result of blood culture. The elevated levels of lactate and troponin were identified as risk factors of SICMP. More importantly, in-hospital mortality rate from SIMD and SICMP showed increased trend and worse outcome in SIMD group with reduced EF<30%. Thus, developing SIMD or SICMP reflected poor prognosis in sepsis or septic shock. PMID:29595686

Subjective and physiological effects, and expired carbon monoxide concentrations in frequent and occasional cannabis smokers following smoked, vaporized, and oral cannabis administration.

PubMed

Newmeyer, Matthew N; Swortwood, Madeleine J; Abulseoud, Osama A; Huestis, Marilyn A

2017-06-01

Although smoking is the most common cannabis administration route, vaporization and consumption of cannabis edibles are common. Few studies directly compare cannabis' subjective and physiological effects following multiple administration routes. Subjective and physiological effects, and expired carbon monoxide (CO) were evaluated in frequent and occasional cannabis users following placebo (0.001% Δ 9 -tetrahydrocannabinol [THC]), smoked, vaporized, and oral cannabis (6.9% THC, ∼54mg). Participants' subjective ratings were significantly elevated compared to placebo after smoking and vaporization, while only occasional smokers' ratings were significantly elevated compared to placebo after oral dosing. Frequent smokers' maximum ratings were significantly different between inhaled and oral routes, while no differences in occasional smokers' maximum ratings between active routes were observed. Additionally, heart rate increases above baseline 0.5h after smoking (mean 12.2bpm) and vaporization (10.7bpm), and at 1.5h (13.0bpm) and 3h (10.2bpm) after oral dosing were significantly greater than changes after placebo, with no differences between frequent and occasional smokers. Finally, smoking produced significantly increased expired CO concentrations 0.25-6h post-dose compared to vaporization. All participants had significant elevations in subjective effects after smoking and vaporization, but only occasional smokers after oral cannabis, indicating partial tolerance to subjective effects with frequent exposure. There were no differences in occasional smokers' maximum subjective ratings across the three active administration routes. Vaporized cannabis is an attractive alternative for medicinal administrations over smoking or oral routes; effects occur quickly and doses can be titrated with minimal CO exposure. These results have strong implications for safety and abuse liability assessments. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Hemodynamics and Vascular Hypertrophy in African Americans and Caucasians With High Blood Pressure.

PubMed

Hill, LaBarron K; Sherwood, Andrew; Blumenthal, James A; Hinderliter, Alan L

2016-12-01

Hypertension in African Americans is characterized by greater systemic vascular resistance (SVR) compared with Caucasian Americans, but the responsible mechanisms are not known. The present study sought to determine if peripheral vascular hypertrophy is a potential mechanism contributing to elevated SVR in African Americans with high blood pressure (BP). In a biracial sample of 80 men and women between the ages of 25 and 45 years, with clinic BP in the range 130/85-160/99mm Hg, we assessed cardiac output and SVR, in addition to BP. Minimum forearm vascular resistance (MFVR), a marker of vascular hypertrophy, also was assessed. SVR was elevated in African Americans compared with Caucasians (P < 0.001). Regression models indicated that age, body mass index, 24-hour diastolic BP, and ethnicity were significant predictors of SVR. There was also a significant interaction between ethnicity and MFVR in explaining SVR in the study sample. In particular, there was a significant positive association between MFVR and SVR among African Americans (P = 0.002), whereas the association was inverse and not statistically significant among Caucasians (P = 0.601). Hypertrophy of the systemic microvasculature may contribute to the elevated SVR that is characteristic of the early stages of hypertension in African American compared with Caucasians. © American Journal of Hypertension, Ltd 2016. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com

Pre-hibernation energy reserves in a temperate anuran, Rana chensinensis, along a relatively fine elevational gradient

USGS Publications Warehouse

Lu, X.; Li, B.; Li, Y.; Ma, X.; Fellers, G.M.

2008-01-01

Temperate anurans have energy substrates in the liver, fat bodies, carcass and gonads; these stores provide support for metabolism and egg production during hibernation, and for breeding activities in spring. This paper compares the energy budget shortly before hibernation among Rana chensinensis populations at elevations of 1400, 1700 and 2000 m along a river in northern China. The larger frogs, regardless of elevation, had relatively heavy storage organs and the masses of nearly all these organs were positively correlated with each other. After controlling for the effect of body size, we found no significant difference in energetic organ mass among different age classes for each of the three populations. There were sexual differences in energy strategy. Males in all populations accumulated greater reserves in liver, fat bodies and carcass than did females. In contrast, females put more energy into their ovaries and oviducts. Frogs from higher elevations tended to have heavier organs than those from lower elevations; however, the pattern did not vary systematically along fine environmental gradients. Mid-elevation R. chensinensis built up significantly more reserves than low-elevation individuals, but were similar to their highland conspecifics. Males from higher elevations tended to have heavier liver and fat bodies; females were similar in liver and ovary mass across all elevations, but formed heavier fat bodies, oviducts and somatic tissue at higher elevation sites.

A Combined Ecological and Epidemiologic Investigation of Metals Exposure amongst Indigenous Peoples Near the Marlin Mine in Western Guatemala

PubMed Central

Basu, Niladri; Abare, Marce; Buchanan, Susan; Cryderman, Diana; Nam, Dong-Ha; Sirkin, Susannah; Schmitt, Stefan; Hu, Howard

2016-01-01

In August 2009 a combined epidemiological and ecological pilot study was conducted to investigate allegations of human rights abuses in the form of exposures to toxic metals experienced by mine workers and Indigenous Mam Mayan near the Marlin Mine in Guatemala. In the human study there were no differences in blood and urine metals when comparing five mine workers with eighteen non-mine workers, and there were no discernible relationships between metals exposures and self-reported health measures in any study group. On the other hand, individuals residing closest to the mine had significantly higher levels of certain metals (urinary mercury, copper, arsenic, zinc) when compared to those living further away. Levels of blood aluminum, manganese, and cobalt were elevated in comparison to established normal ranges in many individuals; however, there was no apparent relationship to proximity to the mine or occupation, and thus are of unclear significance. In the ecological study, several metals (aluminum, manganese, cobalt) were found significantly elevated in the river water and sediment sites directly below the mine when compared to sites elsewhere. When the results of the human and ecological results are combined, they suggest that exposures to certain metals may be elevated in sites near the mine but it is not clear if the current magnitude of these elevations poses a significant threat to health. The authors conclude that more robust studies are needed while parallel efforts to minimize the ecological and human impacts of mining proceed. This is critical particularly as the impact of the exposures found could be greatly magnified by expected increases in mining activity over time, synergistic toxicity between metals, and susceptibility for the young and those with pre-existing disease. PMID:20952048

Relationships Between Simple Toe Elevation Angle in the Standing Position and Dynamic Balance and Fall Risk Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults.

PubMed

Takatori, Katsuhiko; Matsumoto, Daisuke

2015-10-01

To investigate the relationships between toe elevation ability in the standing position and dynamic balance and fall risk among community-dwelling older adults. Cross-sectional survey. General community. Community-dwelling older adults (N = 287). Toe elevation angles in the standing position. Intra-rater and inter-rater reliability of measurements of the toe elevation angle was high (internal coefficient of correlation [ICC] (1,2) = 0.94 for the former and ICC (2,1) = 0.90 for the latter). Significant correlations were found between the toe elevation angle and age (r = -0.20, P < .01), 5-m walking time (r = -0.31, P < .01), Functional Reach Test (r = 0.36, P < .01), Timed Up and Go Test (r = -0.36, P < .01), and Chair Stand Test (r = 0.26, P < .01). Subjects who experienced a fall in the previous 6 months had a significantly lower toe elevation angle compared with subjects who did not experience a fall (t = 2.19, P < .05). Multiple regression analysis revealed that results of the Functional Reach Test (β = .22, P < .001) and Timed Up and Go Test (β = -0.74, P < .001) were significantly associated with the toe elevation angle. Toe elevation angle was an index of dynamic balance ability and appears to be a simple screening test for fall risk in community-dwelling older adults. Copyright © 2015 American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Prevalence of elevated blood pressure in Hispanic versus non-Hispanic 6th graders.

PubMed

Tarlton, Patricia A

2007-02-01

Blood pressure screening was conducted on 4,311 (Hispanic n = 763 [17.7%], White n = 2,566 [59.5%], African American n = 610 [14.1%], Asian n = 136 [3.2%], Multiracial n = 231 [5.4%], and Native American n = 5 [0.1%]) 6th-grade students enrolled in Seminole County, Florida, Public Schools from August to December 2005. Prevalence of obesity was 21% for the overall population, with Hispanics n = 218 (28.6%) having a greater prevalence than non-Hispanics n = 630 (19.0%). Following a second screening, overall prevalence of elevated blood pressure was 1.9%, with Hispanics at 2.6% versus 1.6% for non-Hispanics. This was found to be significant when Hispanics were further compared to the White population. However, when adjusted for obesity, elevated blood pressure was not significant for Hispanics. Results confirm the presence of elevated blood pressure and obesity in all population groups, with an elevated risk for both among the Hispanic population.

Circulatory nucleosome levels are significantly increased in early and late-onset preeclampsia.

PubMed

Zhong, Xiao Yan; Gebhardt, Stefan; Hillermann, Renate; Tofa, Kashefa Carelse; Holzgreve, Wolfgang; Hahn, Sinuhe

2005-08-01

Elevations in circulatory DNA, as measured by real-time PCR, have been observed in pregnancies with manifest preeclampsia. Recent reports have indicated that circulatory nucleosome levels are elevated in the periphery of cancer patients. We have now examined whether circulatory nucleosome levels are similarly elevated in cases with preeclampsia. Maternal plasma samples were prepared from 17 cases with early onset preeclampsia (<34 weeks gestation) with 14 matched normotensive controls, as well as 15 cases late-onset preeclampsia (>34 weeks gestation) with 10 matched normotensive controls. Levels of circulatory nucleosomes were quantified by commercial ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbant assay). The level of circulatory nucleosomes was significantly elevated in both study preeclampsia groups, compared to the matched normotensive control group (p = 0.000 and p = 0.001, respectively). Our data suggests that preeclampsia is associated with the elevated presence of circulatory nucleosomes, and that this phenomenon occurs in both early- and late-onset forms of the disorder. Copyright 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Monoterpene and herbivore-induced emissions from cabbage plants grown at elevated atmospheric CO 2 concentration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vuorinen, Terhi; Reddy, G. V. P.; Nerg, Anne-Marja; Holopainen, Jarmo K.

The warming of the lower atmosphere due to elevating CO 2 concentration may increase volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions from plants. Also, direct effects of elevated CO 2 on plant secondary metabolism are expected to lead to increased VOC emissions due to allocation of excess carbon on secondary metabolites, of which many are volatile. We investigated how growing at doubled ambient CO 2 concentration affects emissions from cabbage plants ( Brassica oleracea subsp. capitata) damaged by either the leaf-chewing larvae of crucifer specialist diamondback moth ( Plutella xylostella L.) or generalist Egyptian cotton leafworm ( Spodoptera littoralis (Boisduval)). The emission from cabbage cv. Lennox grown in both CO 2 concentrations, consisted mainly of monoterpenes (sabinene, limonene, α-thujene, 1,8-cineole, β-pinene, myrcene, α-pinene and γ-terpinene). ( Z)-3-Hexenyl acetate, sesquiterpene ( E, E)- α-farnesene and homoterpene ( E)-4,8-dimethyl-1,3,7-nonatriene (DMNT) were emitted mainly from herbivore-damaged plants. Plants grown at 720 μmol mol -1 of CO 2 had significantly lower total monoterpene emissions per shoot dry weight than plants grown at 360 μmol mol -1 of CO 2, while damage by both herbivores significantly increased the total monoterpene emissions compared to intact plants. ( Z)-3-Hexenyl acetate, ( E, E)- α-farnesene and DMNT emissions per shoot dry weight were not affected by the growth at elevated CO 2. The emission of DMNT was significantly enhanced from plants damaged by the specialist P. xylostella compared to the plants damaged by the generalist S. littoralis. The relative proportions of total monoterpenes and total herbivore-induced compounds of total VOCs did not change due to the growth at elevated CO 2, while insect damage increased significantly the proportion of induced compounds. The results suggest that VOC emissions that are induced by the leaf-chewing herbivores will not be influenced by elevated CO 2 concentration.

A Descriptive Study of Hyperlexia in a Clinically Referred Sample of Children with Developmental Delays.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Grigorenok, Elena L.; Klin, Ami; Pauls, David L.; Senft, Riley; Hooper, Catalina; Volkmar, Fred

2002-01-01

This study of hyperlexia in 80 children with developmental delays found no significant differences in the frequency of hyperlexia in girls compared with boys; a significantly elevated frequency of hyperlexia in children diagnosed with pervasive developmental disorders (PDD) compared with children with non-PDD diagnoses; and a similar range of IQ…

Clutch size declines with elevation in tropical birds

USGS Publications Warehouse

Boyce, A.J.; Freeman, Benjamin G.; Mitchell, Adam E.; Martin, Thomas E.

2015-01-01

Clutch size commonly decreases with increasing elevation among temperate-zone and subtropical songbird species. Tropical songbirds typically lay small clutches, thus the ability to evolve even smaller clutch sizes at higher elevations is unclear and untested. We conducted a comparative phylogenetic analysis using data gathered from the literature to test whether clutch size varied with elevation among forest passerines from three tropical biogeographic regions—the Venezuelan Andes and adjacent lowlands, Malaysian Borneo, and New Guinea. We found a significant negative effect of elevation on variation in clutch size among species. We found the same pattern using field data sampled across elevational gradients in Venezuela and Malaysian Borneo. Field data were not available for New Guinea. Both sets of results demonstrate that tropical montane species across disparate biogeographic realms lay smaller clutches than closely related low-elevation species. The environmental sources of selection underlying this pattern remain uncertain and merit further investigation.

Differences in Body Fat Distribution Play a Role in the Lower Levels of Elevated Fasting Glucose amongst Ghanaian Migrant Women Compared to Men.

PubMed

Nicolaou, Mary; Kunst, Anton E; Busschers, Wim B; van Valkengoed, Irene G; Dijkshoorn, Henriette; Boateng, Linda; Brewster, Lizzy M; Snijder, Marieke B; Stronks, Karien; Agyemang, Charles

2013-01-01

Despite higher levels of obesity, West African migrant women appear to have lower rates of type 2 diabetes than their male counterparts. We investigated the role of body fat distribution in these differences. Cross-sectional study of Ghanaian migrants (97 men, 115 women) aged 18-60 years in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Weight, height, waist and hip circumferences were measured. Logistic regression was used to explore the association of BMI, waist and hip measurements with elevated fasting glucose (glucose≥5.6 mmol/L). Linear regression was used to study the association of the same parameters with fasting glucose. Mean BMI, waist and hip circumferences were higher in women than men while the prevalence of elevated fasting glucose was higher in men than in women, 33% versus 19%. With adjustment for age only, men were non-significantly more likely than women to have an elevated fasting glucose, odds ratio (OR) 1.81, 95% CI: 0.95, 3.46. With correction for BMI, the higher odds among men increased and were statistically significant (OR 2.84, 95% CI: 1.32, 6.10), but with consideration of body fat distribution (by adding both hip and waist in the analysis) differences were no longer significant (OR 1.56 95% CI: 0.66, 3.68). Analysis with fasting glucose as continuous outcome measure showed somewhat similar results. Compared to men, the lower rates of elevated fasting glucose observed among Ghanaian women may be partly due to a more favorable body fat distribution, characterized by both hip and waist measurements.

Reliability and sensitivity of the TonoLab rebound tonometer in awake Brown Norway rats.

PubMed

Morrison, John C; Jia, Lijun; Cepurna, William; Guo, Ying; Johnson, Elaine

2009-06-01

To compare the sensitivity of the TonoLab rebound tonometer with the Tono-Pen in awake Brown Norway rats and to compare their ability to predict optic nerve damage induced by experimental IOP elevation. TonoLab and Tono-Pen tonometers were calibrated in cannulated rat eyes connected to a pressure transducer. The TonoLab was used in awake animals housed in standard lighting to measure IOP during light and dark phases. Both instruments were used to monitor chronically elevated IOP produced by episcleral vein injection of hypertonic saline. Measured IOPs were correlated with quantified optic nerve damage in injected eyes. Although they were lower than transducer and Tono-Pen measurements at all levels, TonoLab readings showed an excellent linear fit with transducer readings from 20 to 80 mm Hg (R(2) = 0.99) in cannulated eyes. In awake animals housed in standard lighting, the TonoLab documented significantly higher pressures during the dark phase (27.9 +/- 1.7 mm Hg) than during the light phase (16.7 +/- 2.3 mm Hg). With elevated IOP, correlation between TonoLab and Tono-Pen readings (R(2) = 0.86, P < 0.0001) was similar to that in cannulated eyes. Although both instruments provided measurements that correlated well with optic nerve injury grade, only the Tono-Pen documented significant IOP elevation in eyes with the least amount of injury (P < 0.05). The TonoLab is sensitive enough to be used in awake Brown Norway rats, though instrument fluctuation may limit its ability to identify significant pressure elevations in eyes with minimal optic nerve damage.

Effectiveness of post-fire seeding at the Fitzner-Eberhardt Arid Land Ecology Reserve, Washington

USGS Publications Warehouse

Wirth, Troy A.; Pyke, David A.

2011-01-01

In August 2007, the Milepost 17 and Wautoma fires burned a combined total of 77,349 acres (31,302 hectares) of the Fitzner-Eberhardt Arid Land Ecology Reserve (ALE), part of the Hanford Reach National Monument administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Mid-Columbia National Wildlife Refuge. In 2009, the USFWS implemented a series of seeding and herbicide treatments to mitigate potential negative consequences of these fires, including mortality of native vegetation, invasion of Bromus tectorum (cheatgrass), and soil erosion. Treatments included combinations of seeding (drill and aerial), herbicides, and one of six different mixtures of species. Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis (Wyoming big sagebrush) also was planted by hand in a small area in the southern end of the fire perimeter. Due to differences in plant communities prior to the fire and the multiple treatments applied, treatments were grouped into five treatment associations including mid-elevation aerial seedings, low-elevation aerial seedings, low-elevation drill seedings, high-elevation drill seeding, and no seeding treatments. Data collected at the mid-elevation aerial seedings indicate that the seeding did not appear to increase the density of seedlings compared to the non-seeded area in 2010. At the low-elevation aerial seedings, there were significantly more seedlings at seeded areas as compared to non-seeded areas. Low densities of existing perennial plants probably fostered a low-competition environment enabling seeds to germinate and emerge in 2010 during adequate moisture. Low-elevation drill seedings resulted in significant emergence of seeded grasses in 2009 and 2010 and forbs in 2010. This was likely due to adequate precipitation and that the drill seeding assured soil-to-seed contact. At the high-elevation drill seeding, which was implemented in 2009, there were a high number of seedlings in 2010. Transplanting of A. tridentata following the fires resulted in variable survival rates that warrant further testing; however, transplants located closer to washes tended to have the highest survival rates. Overall, the low-elevation aerial and drill seedings, and the high-elevation drill seedings resulted in significant numbers of seedlings. Further research is needed on methods that provide land managers with critical information about whether or not to seed post-fire areas including status of pre-fire vegetation and estimates of plant mortality due to fire.

Comparison of 24-hour cardiovascular and autonomic function in paraplegia, tetraplegia, and control groups: implications for cardiovascular risk.

PubMed

Rosado-Rivera, Dwindally; Radulovic, M; Handrakis, John P; Cirnigliaro, Christopher M; Jensen, A Marley; Kirshblum, Steve; Bauman, William A; Wecht, Jill Maria

2011-01-01

Fluctuations in 24-hour cardiovascular hemodynamics, specifically heart rate (HR) and blood pressure (BP), are thought to reflect autonomic nervous system (ANS) activity. Persons with spinal cord injury (SCI) represent a model of ANS dysfunction, which may affect 24-hour hemodynamics and predispose these individuals to increased cardiovascular disease risk. To determine 24-hour cardiovascular and ANS function among individuals with tetraplegia (n=20; TETRA: C4-C8), high paraplegia (n=10; HP: T2-T5), low paraplegia (n=9; LP: T7-T12), and non-SCI controls (n=10). Twenty-four-hour ANS function was assessed by time domain parameters of heart rate variability (HRV); the standard deviation of the 5-minute average R-R intervals (SDANN; milliseconds/ms), and the root-mean square of the standard deviation of the R-R intervals (rMSSD; ms). Subjects wore 24-hour ambulatory monitors to record HR, HRV, and BP. Mixed analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed significantly lower 24-hour BP in the tetraplegic group; however, BP did not differ between the HP, LP, and control groups. Mixed ANOVA suggested significantly elevated 24-hour HR in the HP and LP groups compared to the TETRA and control groups (P<0.05); daytime HR was higher in both paraplegic groups compared to the TETRA and control groups (P<0.01) and nighttime HR was significantly elevated in the LP group compared to the TETRA and control groups (P<0.01). Twenty-four-hour SDANN was significantly increased in the HP group compared to the LP and TETRA groups (P<0.05) and rMSSD was significantly lower in the LP compared to the other three groups (P<0.05). Elevated 24-hour HR in persons with paraplegia, in concert with altered HRV dynamics, may impart significant adverse cardiovascular consequences, which are currently unappreciated.

Traffic congestion and blood pressure elevation: A comparative cross-sectional study in Lebanon.

PubMed

Bou Samra, Patrick; El Tomb, Paul; Hosni, Mohammad; Kassem, Ahmad; Rizk, Robin; Shayya, Sami; Assaad, Sarah

2017-12-01

This comparative cross-sectional study examines the association between traffic congestion and elevation of systolic and/or diastolic blood pressure levels among a convenience sample of 310 drivers. Data collection took place during a gas station pause at a fixed time of day. Higher average systolic (142 vs 123 mm Hg) and diastolic (87 vs 78 mm Hg) blood pressures were detected among drivers exposed to traffic congestion compared with those who were not exposed (P<.001), while controlling for body mass index, age, sex, pack-year smoking, driving hours per week, and occupational driving. Moreover, among persons exposed to traffic congestion, longer exposure time was associated with higher systolic and diastolic blood pressures. Further studies are needed to better understand the mechanisms of the significant association between elevated blood pressure and traffic congestion. ©2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Crash and risky driving involvement among novice adolescent drivers and their parents.

PubMed

Simons-Morton, Bruce G; Ouimet, Marie Claude; Zhang, Zhiwei; Klauer, Sheila E; Lee, Suzanne E; Wang, Jing; Albert, Paul S; Dingus, Thomas A

2011-12-01

We compared rates of risky driving among novice adolescent and adult drivers over the first 18 months of adolescents' licensure. Data-recording systems installed in participants' vehicles provided information on driving performance of 42 newly licensed adolescent drivers and their parents. We analyzed crashes and near crashes and elevated g-force event rates by Poisson regression with random effects. During the study period, adolescents were involved in 279 crashes or near crashes (1 involving injury); parents had 34 such accidents. The incidence rate ratio (IRR) comparing adolescent and parent crash and near-crash rates was 3.91. Among adolescent drivers, elevated rates of g-force events correlated with crashes and near crashes (r = 0.60; P < .001). The IRR comparing incident rates of risky driving among adolescents and parents was 5.08. Adolescents' rates of crashes and near crashes declined with time (with a significant uptick in the last quarter), but elevated g-force event rates did not decline. Elevated g-force events among adolescents may have contributed to crash and near-crash rates that remained much higher than adult levels after 18 months of driving.

Populations of Pacific oysters Crassostrea gigas respond variably to elevated CO2 and predation by Morula marginalba.

PubMed

Wright, John M; Parker, Laura M; O'Connor, Wayne A; Williams, Mark; Kube, Peter; Ross, Pauline M

2014-06-01

Ocean acidification is anticipated to decrease calcification and increase dissolution of shelled molluscs. Molluscs with thinner and weaker shells may be more susceptible to predation, but not all studies have measured negative responses of molluscs to elevated pCO2. Recent studies measuring the response of molluscs have found greater variability at the population level than first expected. Here we investigate the impact of acidification on the predatory whelk Morula marginalba and genetically distinct subpopulations of the Pacific oyster Crassostrea gigas. Whelks and eight family lines of C. gigas were separately exposed to ambient (385 ppm) and elevated (1000 ppm) pCO2 for 6 weeks. Following this period, individuals of M. marginalba were transferred into tanks with oysters at ambient and elevated pCO2 for 17 days. The increase in shell height of the oysters was on average 63% less at elevated compared to ambient pCO2. There were differences in shell compression strength, thickness, and mass among family lines of C. gigas, with sometimes an interaction between pCO2 and family line. Against expectations, this study found increased shell strength in the prey and reduced shell strength in the predator at elevated compared to ambient pCO2. After 10 days, the whelks consumed significantly more oysters regardless of whether C. gigas had been exposed to ambient or elevated CO2, but this was not dependent on the family line and the effect was not significant after 17 days. Our study found an increase in predation after exposure of the predator to predicted near-future levels of estuarine pCO2. © 2014 Marine Biological Laboratory.

Short-Term Moderately Elevated Intraocular Pressure Is Associated With Elevated Scotopic Electroretinogram Responses

PubMed Central

Choh, Vivian; Gurdita, Akshay; Tan, Bingyao; Prasad, Ratna C.; Bizheva, Kostadinka; Joos, Karen M.

2016-01-01

Purpose Moderately elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) is a risk factor for open-angle glaucoma. Some patients suffer glaucoma despite clinically measured normal IOPs. Fluctuations in IOP may have a significant role since IOPs are higher during sleep and inversion activities. Controlled transient elevations of IOPs in rats over time lead to optic nerve structural changes that are similar to the early changes observed in constant chronic models of glaucoma. Because early intervention decreases glaucoma progression, this study was done to determine if early physiological changes to the retina could be detected with noninvasive electrophysiological and optical imaging tests during moderately elevated IOP. Methods Intraocular pressures were raised to moderately high levels (35 mm Hg) in one eye of Sprague-Dawley rats while the other (control) eye was untreated. One group of rats underwent scotopic threshold response (STR) and electroretinogram (ERG) testing, while another 3 groups underwent optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging, Western blot, or histologic evaluation. Results The amplitudes of the STR and ERG responses in eyes with moderately elevated IOPs were enhanced compared to the values before IOP elevation, and compared to untreated contralateral eyes. Structural changes to the optic nerve also occurred during IOP elevation. Conclusions Although ischemic IOP elevations are well-known to globally reduce components of the scotopic ERG, acute elevation in rats to levels often observed in untreated glaucoma patients caused an increase in these parameters. Further exploration of these phenomena may be helpful in better understanding the mechanisms mediating early retinal changes during fluctuating or chronically elevated IOP. PMID:27100161

[The expression of p53, MDM2 and Ref1 gene in cultured retina neurons of SD rats treated with vitamin B1 and/or elevated pressure].

PubMed

Yang, Zhikuan; Ge, Jian; Yin, Wei; Shen, Huangxuan; Liu, Haiquan; Guo, Yan

2004-12-01

To investigate the expression of p53, MDM2 and Ref1 gene in cultured retina neurons of SD rats treated with Vitamin B1 and (or) elevated pressure. The retinal neuron of postnatal SD rats were cultured in vivo, the elevated pressure was produced after 7 days, and the total RNA was extracted after another 2 days, expression of p53, MDM2 and Ref1 gene were analyzed with RT-PCR. The expression level of p53 and MDM2 gene were increased in elevated pressure group, normal with Ref1 gene expression. But the expression of p53 and MDM2 gene were decreased significantly in elevated pressure group treated with vitamine B1 compare to the elevated group. Apoptosis seem to be a mechanism of cell death in retinal neurons of SD rats with elevated pressure.Vitamine B1 have protect effects against elevated pressure.

Elevated soluble CD30 correlates with development of bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome following lung transplantation.

PubMed

Fields, Ryan C; Bharat, Ankit; Steward, Nancy; Aloush, Aviva; Meyers, Brian F; Trulock, Elbert P; Chapman, William C; Patterson, G Alexander; Mohanakumar, Thalachallour

2006-12-27

The long-term function of lung transplants is limited by chronic rejection (bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome, BOS). Due to lack of specific markers, BOS is diagnosed clinically. Because there is strong evidence that alloimmunity plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of BOS, we investigated whether soluble CD30 (sCD30), a T-cell activation marker, would correlate with BOS. Sera collected serially from BOS+ (n = 20) and matched BOS- (n = 20) lung transplant (LT) patients were analyzed for sCD30 by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Pretransplant sera and sera from normal donors were also analyzed. PreLT levels were comparable to normal subjects. However, posttransplant there was a significant elevation in sCD30 levels during BOS development in all BOS+ patients, compared to BOS- (mean 139.8+/-10.7 vs. 14.8+/-2.7 U/ml, P < 0.001). sCD30 levels declined in the BOS+ patients but were still elevated compared to BOS- (48.52+/-5.04 vs. 7.19+/-2.9, P < 0.0001). We conclude that sCD30 may represent a novel marker to monitor the development of BOS.

Vertical osteoconductivity of sputtered hydroxyapatite-coated mini titanium implants after dura mater elevation: Rabbit calvarial model.

PubMed

Wang, Xin; Zakaria, Osama; Madi, Marwa; Kasugai, Shohei

2015-01-01

This study evaluated the quantity and quality of newly formed vertical bone induced by sputtered hydroxyapatite-coated titanium implants compared with sandblasted acid-etched implants after dura mater elevation. Hydroxyapatite-coated and non-coated implants (n = 20/group) were used and divided equally into two groups. All implants were randomly placed into rabbit calvarial bone (four implants for each animal) emerging from the inferior cortical layer, displacing the dura mater 3 mm below the original bone. Animals were sacrificed at 4 (n = 5) and 8 (n = 5) weeks post-surgery. Vertical bone height and area were analyzed histologically and radiographically below the original bone. Vertical bone formation was observed in both groups. At 4 and 8 weeks, vertical bone height reached a significantly higher level in the hydroxyapatite compared with the non-coated group (p < 0.05). Vertical bone area was significantly larger in the hydroxyapatite compared with the non-coated group at 4 and 8 weeks (p < 0.05). This study indicates that vertical bone formation can be induced by dura mater elevation and sputtered hydroxyapatite coating can enhance vertical bone formation.

Pseudo-Patella Baja after total knee arthroplasty

PubMed Central

Kazemi, Seyyed Morteza; Besheli, Laleh Daftari; Eajazi, Alireza; Sajadi, Mohammad Reza Miniator; Okhovatpoor, Mohammad Ali; Zanganeh, Ramin Farhang; Minaei, Reza

2011-01-01

Summary Background One of the complications of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) which has not yet been directly addressed is pseudo-patella baja (PPB). True patella baja (PB) is present when the length of the patellar tendon becomes shorter. PPB is present when the patella tendon is not shortened, but the level of the joint line is elevated. This study was conducted to assess PPB in TKA. Material/Methods Sixty patients who had had a primary TKA at our center between 1995 and 2005 were included. The average follow-up was 27.5 months. The Knee Society Scoring (KSS), lateral knee x-rays and the Blackburne-Peel index were used for assessments. Results Out of the 60 patients, 43 (72%) demonstrated no joint line elevation or patellar tendon shortening (group A). Fifteen patients (25%) had joint line elevation (group B), and both PB and PPB were present in 2 (3%) patients (group C). KSS was lower in groups B and C compared with group A, but this difference was not statistically significant. The average range of motion (ROM) in group A was significantly higher compared with either group B or C, and patients in groups B and C showed significantly more severe pain compared with group A (P<0.001). Conclusions PPB is not an uncommon finding after TKA and is associated with a statistically significant decrease in ROM and an increase in pain. Furthermore, KSS in the PPB group was less than in patients without PPB, although the difference was not statistically meaningful. PMID:21525812

Direct correlation between serum homocysteine level and insulin resistance index in patients with subclinical hypothyroidism: Does subclinical hypothyroidism increase the risk of diabetes and cardio vascular disease together?

PubMed

Ebrahimpour, Anahita; Vaghari-Tabari, Mostafa; Qujeq, Durdi; Moein, Soheila; Moazezi, Zoleikha

2018-05-05

Subclinical hypothyroidism known as mild thyroid disorder without significant sign and symptoms. The correlation between subclinical hypothyroidism and some of cardiovascular disease risk factors such as serum lipids, homocysteine levels and also insulin resistance index is not well established and the current study was conducted to clarify this issue. Seventy four patients with mild elevation in levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) along with normal levels of T3 and T4 were selected as patients group and 74 age and sex matched individuals were selected as healthy control group. Serum insulin, triglyceride, glucose, total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol and homocysteine levels were measured. Obtained data compared between groups with independent sample t-test. For evaluation of the correlation between mentioned parameters Pearson correlation coefficient method was used. Serum levels of LDL-C and total cholesterol significantly increased in SCH group compared to healthy control group. Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOM-IR) and serum homocysteine level significantly elevated in patients with SCH compared to control group. There was a significant direct correlation between HOM-IR and serum homocysteine levels in SCH patients. Subclinical hypothyroidism likely have significant effect on insulin resistance as major diabetes risk factors and also cardiovascular disease risk factors such as homocysteine. The direct correlation between HOM-IR with serum homocysteine level indicate the possible role of insulin resistance in elevation of serum homocysteine in SCH patient group. Copyright © 2018 Diabetes India. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Characterization of stress-induced suppression of long-term potentiation in the hippocampal CA1 field of freely moving rats.

PubMed

Hirata, Riki; Togashi, Hiroko; Matsumoto, Machiko; Yamaguchi, Taku; Izumi, Takeshi; Yoshioka, Mitsuhiro

2008-08-21

Several lines of evidence have shown that exposure to stress impairs long-term potentiation (LTP) in the CA1 field of the hippocampus, but the detailed mechanisms for this effect remain to be clarified. The present study elucidated the synaptic mechanism of stress-induced LTP suppression in conscious, freely moving rats using electrophysiological approaches. Open field stress (i.e., novel environment stress) and elevated platform stress (i.e., uncontrollable stress) were employed. Basal synaptic transmission was significantly reduced during exposure to elevated platform stress but not during exposure to open field stress. LTP induction was blocked by elevated platform stress but not influenced by open field stress. Significant increases in serum corticosterone levels were observed in the elevated platform stress group compared with the open field stress group. Furthermore, LTP suppression induced by elevated platform stress was prevented by pretreatment with an anxiolytic drug diazepam (1 mg/kg, i.p.). These results suggest that stress-induced LTP suppression depends on the relative intensity of the stressor. The inhibitory synaptic response induced by an intense psychological stress, such as elevated platform stress, may be attributable to LTP impairment in the CA1 field of the hippocampus.

Porphyrinuria in childhood autistic disorder: Implications for environmental toxicity

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

Nataf, Robert; Skorupka, Corinne; Amet, Lorene

To address a possible environmental contribution to autism, we carried out a retrospective study on urinary porphyrin levels, a biomarker of environmental toxicity, in 269 children with neurodevelopmental and related disorders referred to a Paris clinic (2002-2004), including 106 with autistic disorder. Urinary porphyrin levels determined by high-performance liquid chromatography were compared between diagnostic groups including internal and external control groups. Coproporphyrin levels were elevated in children with autistic disorder relative to control groups. Elevation was maintained on normalization for age or to a control heme pathway metabolite (uroporphyrin) in the same samples. The elevation was significant (P < 0.001).more » Porphyrin levels were unchanged in Asperger's disorder, distinguishing it from autistic disorder. The atypical molecule precoproporphyrin, a specific indicator of heavy metal toxicity, was also elevated in autistic disorder (P < 0.001) but not significantly in Asperger's. A subgroup with autistic disorder was treated with oral dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) with a view to heavy metal removal. Following DMSA there was a significant (P = 0.002) drop in urinary porphyrin excretion. These data implicate environmental toxicity in childhood autistic disorder.« less

Porphyrinuria in childhood autistic disorder: implications for environmental toxicity.

PubMed

Nataf, Robert; Skorupka, Corinne; Amet, Lorene; Lam, Alain; Springbett, Anthea; Lathe, Richard

2006-07-15

To address a possible environmental contribution to autism, we carried out a retrospective study on urinary porphyrin levels, a biomarker of environmental toxicity, in 269 children with neurodevelopmental and related disorders referred to a Paris clinic (2002-2004), including 106 with autistic disorder. Urinary porphyrin levels determined by high-performance liquid chromatography were compared between diagnostic groups including internal and external control groups. Coproporphyrin levels were elevated in children with autistic disorder relative to control groups. Elevation was maintained on normalization for age or to a control heme pathway metabolite (uroporphyrin) in the same samples. The elevation was significant (P < 0.001). Porphyrin levels were unchanged in Asperger's disorder, distinguishing it from autistic disorder. The atypical molecule precoproporphyrin, a specific indicator of heavy metal toxicity, was also elevated in autistic disorder (P < 0.001) but not significantly in Asperger's. A subgroup with autistic disorder was treated with oral dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) with a view to heavy metal removal. Following DMSA there was a significant (P = 0.002) drop in urinary porphyrin excretion. These data implicate environmental toxicity in childhood autistic disorder.

Elevated Striatal Dopamine Function in Immigrants and Their Children: A Risk Mechanism for Psychosis.

PubMed

Egerton, Alice; Howes, Oliver D; Houle, Sylvain; McKenzie, Kwame; Valmaggia, Lucia R; Bagby, Michael R; Tseng, Huai-Hsuan; Bloomfield, Michael A P; Kenk, Miran; Bhattacharyya, Sagnik; Suridjan, Ivonne; Chaddock, Chistopher A; Winton-Brown, Toby T; Allen, Paul; Rusjan, Pablo; Remington, Gary; Meyer-Lindenberg, Andreas; McGuire, Philip K; Mizrahi, Romina

2017-03-01

Migration is a major risk factor for schizophrenia but the neurochemical processes involved are unknown. One candidate mechanism is through elevations in striatal dopamine synthesis and release. The objective of this research was to determine whether striatal dopamine function is elevated in immigrants compared to nonimmigrants and the relationship with psychosis. Two complementary case-control studies of in vivo dopamine function (stress-induced dopamine release and dopamine synthesis capacity) in immigrants compared to nonimmigrants were performed in Canada and the United Kingdom. The Canadian dopamine release study included 25 immigrant and 31 nonmigrant Canadians. These groups included 23 clinical high risk (CHR) subjects, 9 antipsychotic naïve patients with schizophrenia, and 24 healthy volunteers. The UK dopamine synthesis study included 32 immigrants and 44 nonimmigrant British. These groups included 50 CHR subjects and 26 healthy volunteers. Both striatal stress-induced dopamine release and dopamine synthesis capacity were significantly elevated in immigrants compared to nonimmigrants, independent of clinical status. These data provide the first evidence that the effect of migration on the risk of developing psychosis may be mediated by an elevation in brain dopamine function. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Maryland Psychiatric Research Center.

Effects of elevated CO2 levels on root morphological traits and Cd uptakes of two Lolium species under Cd stress*

PubMed Central

Jia, Yan; Tang, Shi-rong; Ju, Xue-hai; Shu, Li-na; Tu, Shu-xing; Feng, Ren-wei; Giusti, Lorenzino

2011-01-01

This study was conducted to investigate the combined effects of elevated CO2 levels and cadmium (Cd) on the root morphological traits and Cd accumulation in Lolium multiflorum Lam. and Lolium perenne L. exposed to two CO2 levels (360 and 1000 μl/L) and three Cd levels (0, 4, and 16 mg/L) under hydroponic conditions. The results show that elevated levels of CO2 increased shoot biomass more, compared to root biomass, but decreased Cd concentrations in all plant tissues. Cd exposure caused toxicity to both Lolium species, as shown by the restrictions of the root morphological parameters including root length, surface area, volume, and tip numbers. These parameters were significantly higher under elevated levels of CO2 than under ambient CO2, especially for the number of fine roots. The increases in magnitudes of those parameters triggered by elevated levels of CO2 under Cd stress were more than those under non-Cd stress, suggesting an ameliorated Cd stress under elevated levels of CO2. The total Cd uptake per pot, calculated on the basis of biomass, was significantly greater under elevated levels of CO2 than under ambient CO2. Ameliorated Cd toxicity, decreased Cd concentration, and altered root morphological traits in both Lolium species under elevated levels of CO2 may have implications in food safety and phytoremediation. PMID:21462388

Measurement of intima-media thickness of common carotid arteries using ultrasound in patients with familial and non-familial hypercholesterolaemia and correlation of intima-media thickness to obesity.

PubMed

Nafikudin, M; Nawawi, H; Muid, S; Annuar, R; Yusoff, K; Khalid, B A

2003-12-01

Ultrasonographic measurements of the intima-media thickness (IMT) of common carotid arteries (CCA) were taken in 50 patients with familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH) and 57 patients with non-familial hypercholesterolemia (NFH). The lipid profile, body mass index (BMI) and waist-hip ratio (WHR) of each patient were recorded. In FH patients, the IMT was significantly higher in overweight and elevated WHR subgroups compared to the normal with significant correlations between BMI and WHR to the IMT. In NFH patients, the IMT was significantly higher in the elevated WHR compared to the normal subgroup but the correlations between either BMI or WHR to IMT were insignificant. These suggest that the environmentally modified anthropometric indices may have an effect on atherosclerosis in genetically determined hypercholesterolaemia in FH patients.

Global transcriptomic profiling of aspen trees under elevated [CO2] to identify potential molecular mechanisms responsible for enhanced radial growth.

PubMed

Wei, Hairong; Gou, Jiqing; Yordanov, Yordan; Zhang, Huaxin; Thakur, Ramesh; Jones, Wendy; Burton, Andrew

2013-03-01

Aspen (Populus tremuloides) trees growing under elevated [CO(2)] at a free-air CO(2) enrichment (FACE) site produced significantly more biomass than control trees. We investigated the molecular mechanisms underlying the observed increase in biomass by producing transcriptomic profiles of the vascular cambium zone (VCZ) and leaves, and then performed a comparative study to identify significantly changed genes and pathways after 12 years exposure to elevated [CO(2)]. In leaves, elevated [CO(2)] enhanced expression of genes related to Calvin cycle activity and linked pathways. In the VCZ, the pathways involved in cell growth, cell division, hormone metabolism, and secondary cell wall formation were altered while auxin conjugation, ABA synthesis, and cytokinin glucosylation and degradation were inhibited. Similarly, the genes involved in hemicellulose and pectin biosynthesis were enhanced, but some genes that catalyze important steps in lignin biosynthesis pathway were inhibited. Evidence from systemic analysis supported the functioning of multiple molecular mechanisms that underpin the enhanced radial growth in response to elevated [CO(2)].

Activation of the serratus anterior and upper trapezius in a population with winged and tipped scapulae during push-up-plus and diagonal shoulder-elevation.

PubMed

Park, Se-Yeon; Yoo, Won-Gyu

2015-01-01

Scapular winging and tipping are types of abnormal scapular kinematics, which is caused by not only the entrapment of peripheral nerve, but also imbalance of the scapulothoracic musculatures. The purpose of this study was to investigate the presence of muscular imbalance in the middle and lower parts of the serratus anterior and upper trapezius in people with scapular winging and tipping. Twenty male participants (age, 23.0 ± 1.92 y) were placed into symptomatic group (n = 10) and control group (n = 10). Participants completed two individual trials of a push-up plus, and a diagonal shoulder elevation, while electromyography (EMG) recorded muscle activity of the low and middle serratus anterior and upper trapezius. The root mean squared EMG values for three muscles were normalized using maximum voluntary isometric contractions (%MVIC). The value was calculated using modified isolation equation for comparing activation of middle and lower serratus anterior (%isolation). During a diagonal shoulder elevation, the % maximal voluntary isometric contraction (%MVIC) data showed that the symptomatic participants had significantly greater activation of the middle serratus anterior compared to the control group (P = 0.01). During a diagonal shoulder elevation, the symptomatic participants had not only significantly increased %isolation of the middle serratus anterior, but also significantly decreased for the lower serratus anterior compare with the control group (p = 0.00). Present result indicated that different muscle activation between middle and lower serratus anterior could represent in group with scapular dyskinesis, and need for selective activation of the lower serratus anterior in patients with scapular winging and tipping.

Elevated total plasma-adiponectin is stable over time in young women with bulimia nervosa.

PubMed

Syk, M; Ramklint, M; Fredriksson, R; Ekselius, L; Cunningham, J L

2017-03-01

Bulimia nervosa (BN) is characterized by dysregulated eating behaviour and present data suggest adipokines may regulate food intake. We investigated a possible association between BN and adipokine levels and hypothesized that plasma (P)-adiponectin would be elevated and P-leptin and P-leptin-adiponectin-ratio would be reduced in women with BN. The study was designed as a cross-sectional study with a longitudinal arm for patients with BN. Plasma-adiponectin and leptin was measured in 148 female patients seeking psychiatric ambulatory care and 45 female controls. Fifteen patients were diagnosed with BN and the remaining with other affective and anxiety disorders. P-adiponectin and P-leptin levels were compared between patients with BN, patients without BN and controls. At follow-up 1-2years later, adipokines were reassessed in patients with BN and the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire was used to assess symptom severity. P-adiponectin was elevated in patients with BN at baseline and at follow-up when compared to patients without BN and controls (P<0.004 and <0.008 respectively). The difference remained significant after controlling for body mass index. P-adiponectin was correlated to symptom severity at follow-up in patients with BN without morbid obesity (ρ=0.72, P<0.04). P-leptin-adiponectin-ratio was significantly lower in patients with BN compared to controls (P<0.04) and P-leptin non-significantly lower. Findings indicate a stable elevation of P-adiponectin in women with BN. P-adiponectin at follow-up correlates to eating disorder symptom severity in patients without morbid obesity, indicating that P-adiponectin should be further investigated as a possible potential prognostic biomarker for BN. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Elevated levels of circulating IL-18BP and perturbed regulation of IL-18 in schizophrenia

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background The pleiotropic pro-inflammatory cytokine Interleukin (IL)-18 has been proposed to play a role in schizophrenia, since elevated circulating levels of its protein and altered frequencies of genetic variants in its molecular system are reported in schizophrenic patients. Methods We analyzed 77 patients with schizophrenia diagnosis (SCZ) and 77 healthy control subjects (HC) for serum concentration of both IL-18 and its natural inhibitor, the IL-18 binding protein (IL-18BP). Results We confirmed that serum levels of total IL-18 are significantly increased in SCZ, as compared to HC. However, due to a highly significant increase in levels of circulating IL-18BP in SCZ, as compared to HC, the levels of free, bioactive IL-18 are not significantly different between the two groups. In addition, the relationships between the levels of IL-18 and its inhibitor, as well as between the two molecules and age appear dissimilar for SCZ and HC. In particular, the elevated levels of IL-18BP, likely a consequence of the body’s attempt to counteract the early prominent inflammation which characterizes schizophrenia, are maintained in earlier and later stages of the disease. However, the IL-18BP elevation appears ineffective to balance the IL-18 system in younger SCZ patients, while in older patients the levels of circulating bioactive IL-18 are comparable to those of HC, if not lower. Conclusions In conclusion, these findings indicate that the IL-18 system is perturbed in schizophrenia, supporting the idea that this pro-inflammatory cytokine might be part of a pathway of genetic and environmental components for vulnerability to the disease. PMID:22913567

A significant upward shift in plant species optimum elevation during the 20th century.

PubMed

Lenoir, J; Gégout, J C; Marquet, P A; de Ruffray, P; Brisse, H

2008-06-27

Spatial fingerprints of climate change on biotic communities are usually associated with changes in the distribution of species at their latitudinal or altitudinal extremes. By comparing the altitudinal distribution of 171 forest plant species between 1905 and 1985 and 1986 and 2005 along the entire elevation range (0 to 2600 meters above sea level) in west Europe, we show that climate warming has resulted in a significant upward shift in species optimum elevation averaging 29 meters per decade. The shift is larger for species restricted to mountain habitats and for grassy species, which are characterized by faster population turnover. Our study shows that climate change affects the spatial core of the distributional range of plant species, in addition to their distributional margins, as previously reported.

Elevated CO2 changes interspecific competition among three species of wheat aphids: Sitobion avenae, Rhopalosiphum padi, and Schizaphis graminum.

PubMed

Sun, Yu Cheng; Chen, Fa Jun; Ge, Feng

2009-02-01

Effects of elevated CO2 (twice ambient) on the interspecific competition among three species of wheat aphids (Sitobion avenae, Rhopalosiphum padi, and Schizaphis graminum) and on wheat-aphid interactions were studied. Wheat plants had higher biomass and yield and lower water and nitrogen content of grain when grown under elevated CO2 than under ambient CO2; levels of condensed tannins, total phenols, and total nonstructural carbohydrates were also higher in wheat ears under elevated CO2. Compared with ambient CO2, elevated CO2 increased the abundance of R. padi when introduced solely but reduced its abundance when S. avenae was also present. The spatial distribution of wheat aphids was apparently influenced by CO2 levels, with significantly more S. avenae on ears and a more even distribution of R. padi on wheat plants under elevated CO2 versus ambient CO2. Elevated CO2 did not affect the abundance and spatial distribution of S. graminus when inoculated solely. Moreover, when S. avenae was present with either R. padi or S. graminum, spatial niche overlap was significantly decreased with elevated CO2. When three species co-occurred, elevated CO2 reduced spatial niche overlap between S. avenae and S. graminum and between R. padi and S. graminum. Our results suggest that increases in atmospheric CO2 would alleviate interspecific competition for these cases, which would accentuate the abundance of and the damage caused by these wheat aphids.

Elevation discrepancies between MMPI-2 clinical and MMPI-2-RF restructured clinical (RC) scales in people with seizure disorders.

PubMed

Bowden, Stephen C; White, Jessica R; Simpson, Leonie; Ben-Porath, Yossef S

2014-05-01

People with seizure disorders experience elevated rates of psychopathology, often undiagnosed and untreated. Accurate diagnosis of psychopathology remains an important goal of quality health care for people with seizure disorders. One of the most widely used dimensional measures of psychopathology is the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-Second Edition (MMPI-2). Research in heterogeneous mental health samples suggests that the 2008 revision of this measure, the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-Second Edition-Restructured Form (MMPI-2-RF), offers better construct fidelity and more cost-effective administration. This study seeks to extend research on MMPI-2-RF scale elevations to a sample of people with seizure disorders. In a consecutive, heterogeneous sample of people with seizure disorders, MMPI-2 and MMPI-2-RF scores were compared in terms of categorical classification agreement (clinically elevated versus not clinically elevated). Scores were also compared in terms of variance attributable to diagnosis-specific items, general demoralization, subtle items, social desirability, and demographic factors. Scores on MMPI-2 and MMPI-2-RF provided a statistically significant level of agreement between corresponding clinical diagnostic scales ranging from 68% to 84%. Most classification disagreement was attributable to MMPI-2 clinical scale elevations when MMPI-2-RF scales were not elevated. Regression analysis supported the interpretation that general demoralization, subtle items, social desirability, and demographic factors led to MMPI-2 clinical scale elevations. The results provide evidence that in the context of strong psychopathology classification agreement, the MMPI-2-RF restructured clinical scales provide better construct fidelity compared with the more trait heterogeneous MMPI-2 clinical scales. These results should encourage clinicians to use the MMPI-2 Restructured Form (MMPI-2-RF) for improved psychopathology assessment compared with the MMPI-2 in patients with seizure disorders. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Comparison of long-term mortality of acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction and non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome patients after percutaneous coronary intervention

PubMed Central

Ren, Lihui; Ye, Huiming; Wang, Ping; Cui, Yuxia; Cao, Shichang; Lv, Shuzheng

2014-01-01

Background and aims: This study is to compare the short-term and long-term mortality in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS) after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Methods and results: A total of 266 STEMI patients and 140 NSTE-ACS patients received PCI. Patients were followed up by telephone or at medical record or case statistics center and were followed up for 4 years. Descriptive statistics and multivariate survival analyses were employed to compare the mortality in STEMI and NSTE-ACS. All statistical analyses were performed by SPSS19.0 software package. NSTE-ACS patients had significantly higher clinical and angiographic risk profiles at baseline. During the 4-year follow-up, all-cause mortality in STEMI was significantly higher than that in NSTE-ACS after coronary stent placement (HR 1.496, 95% CI 1.019-2.197). In a landmark analysis no difference was seen in all-cause mortality for both STEMI and NSTE-ACS between 6 month and 4 years of follow-up (HR 1.173, 95% CI 0.758-1.813). Conclusions: Patients with STEMI have a worse long-term prognosis compared to patients with NSTE-ACS after PCI, due to higher short-term mortality. However, NSTE-ACS patients have a worse long-term survival after 6 months. PMID:25664077

A comparison of the ability of a 4:1 ketogenic diet and a 6.3:1 ketogenic diet to elevate seizure thresholds in adult and young rats.

PubMed

Nylen, Kirk; Likhodii, Sergei; Abdelmalik, Peter A; Clarke, Jasper; Burnham, W McIntyre

2005-08-01

The pentylenetetrazol (PTZ) infusion test was used to compare seizure thresholds in adult and young rats fed either a 4:1 ketogenic diet (KD) or a 6.3:1 KD. We hypothesized that both KDs would significantly elevate seizure thresholds and that the 4:1 KD would serve as a better model of the KD used clinically. Ninety adult rats and 75 young rats were placed on one of five experimental diets: (a) a 4:1 KD, (b) a control diet balanced to the 4:1 KD, (c) a 6.3:1 KD, (d) a standard control diet, or (e) an ad libitum standard control diet. All subjects were seizure tested by using the PTZ infusion test. Blood glucose and beta-hydroxybutyrate (beta-OHB) levels were measured. Neither KD elevated absolute "latencies to seizure" in young or adult rats. Similarly, neither KD elevated "threshold doses" in adult rats. In young rats, the 6.3:1 KD, but not the 4:1 KD, significantly elevated threshold doses. The 6.3:1 KD group showed poorer weight gain than the 4:1 KD group when compared with respective controls. The most dramatic discrepancies were seen in young rats. "Threshold doses" and "latency to seizure" data provided conflicting measures of seizure threshold. This was likely due to the inflation of threshold doses calculated by using the much smaller body weights found in the 6.3:1 KD group. Ultimately, the PTZ infusion test in rats may not be a good preparation to model the anticonvulsant effects of the KD seen clinically, especially when dietary treatments lead to significantly mismatched body weights between the groups.

Comparison of four different cardiac troponin assays in patients with end-stage renal disease on chronic haemodialysis.

PubMed

Helleskov Madsen, Lene; Ladefoged, Søren; Hildebrandt, Per; Atar, Dan

2008-01-01

Several studies have documented the importance of troponin elevation as a prognostic marker in end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The reason for the elevated concentrations is not clarified. We do not know whether the different assays recognize the same patients within ESRD populations. The aim of this study was to compare concentrations of troponin measured by four different assays in a cohort of patients with ESRD, to investigate whether haemodialysis affects troponin concentrations, and to compare the prognostic potential of the different assays. We included 109 patients on chronic haemodialysis. Serum cardiac troponin T (cTnT) was measured pre- and postdialysis using Elecsys 2010 and troponin I (cTnI) using Access AccuTnI, Dimension RxL and AIA-600II. The cTnT assay had the highest percentage of elevated concentrations for all chosen cut-offs with a reduction in percentage of patients with elevated concentrations during haemodialysis. Elecsys 2010 and AIA-600II demonstrated a significant increased mortality with raised concentrations of troponin. The diverging results in previous studies are most likely based on substantial differences in the analytical performance of the assays. The prognostic value of cTnT appears superior to cTnI, which amplifies the prognostic significance of this cardiovascular marker in patients with ESRD.

Gender differences between muscle activation and onset timing of the four subdivisions of trapezius during humerothoracic elevation.

PubMed

Szucs, Kimberly A; Borstad, John D

2013-12-01

The aim of this study was to provide a description of gender differences of the normal muscle activation patterns of the four subdivisions of the trapezius (clavicular, descending, transverse, ascending) during arm elevation. Surface EMG was collected from these four subdivisions from twenty-two healthy subjects (12 females, 10 males) during arm elevation in the scapular plane. Percent activation (RMS) of each subdivision was compared between genders across arm angles and elevation phase and onset time of each subdivision was compared between genders. Females demonstrated significantly higher % activation levels for each subdivision (p<.05), except transverse trapezius (p=.36). A statistically significant difference for onset time was observed between gender for the descending trapezius, with a slower onset time for females (p<.05). Findings from this study support the theory that subdivisions within descending trapezius are preferentially activated and demonstrate that gender differences are present within the fourth subdivision of trapezius. As subjects were without shoulder pathology, the observed gender differences may be explained by normal motor control variations. However, as coordinated activation of trapezius is required for normal shoulder motion, it is recommended to include all four subdivisions of trapezius and address gender differences in future studies. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Comparison of tumor markers and clinicopathological features in serous and mucinous borderline ovarian tumors.

PubMed

Alanbay, I; Aktürk, E; Coksuer, H; Ercan, C M; Karaşahin, E; Dede, M; Yenen, M C; Ozan, H; Dilek, S

2012-01-01

The aim of this study was to assess tumor markers and clinicopathological findings of patients with serous and mucinous borderline ovarian tumor (BOT) features. The study consisted of 50 patients that were diagnosed with and treated for BOT between 2005-2010 in three centers. CA125, CA19-9, and CA125+CA19-9 levels and clinicopathological features were compared in serous and mucinous histotypes. In serous and mucinous BOTs, correlations between tumor markers and demographics such as age, menopausal status, parity, clinical findings (stage, relapse, adjuvant chemotherapy, cytology, lymph node involvement and tumoral morphology (cystic-solid content, papilla, septation) were evaluated. There were no significant differences between serous and mucinous tumors in the clinicopathological features such as stage, tumor markers, age, menopausal status, or cytology. In serous BOTs we found a significant relation between elevated CA125+ CA19-9, CA19-9 and recurrence (p < 0.05). Also there was a significant relation between elevated CA125+ CA19-9, CA19-9 and cytology positivity (p < 0.05). We found a significant relation in serous BOTs between elevated CA125+CA19-9, adjuvant chemotherapy and lymph node metastases (p < 0.05). Also In mucinous BOTs with papilla formation we found a significant relation between elevated CA125 and CA125+ CA19-9 (p < 0.05). There was significant relation between cytology positivity and elevated CA19-9 in mucinous BOTs (p < 0.05). Serum tumor markers of serous and mucinous BOTs were different in relation to their clinicopathological features. This may reflect differences of serous and mucinous BOTs.

Olive Leaf Extract Elevates Hepatic PPAR α mRNA Expression and Improves Serum Lipid Profiles in Ovariectomized Rats.

PubMed

Yoon, Leena; Liu, Ya-Nan; Park, Hyunjin; Kim, Hyun-Sook

2015-07-01

We hypothesized that olive leaf extract might alleviate dyslipidemia resulting from estrogen deficiency. Serum lipid profile and mRNA expression of the related genes in the liver and adipose tissue were analyzed after providing olive leaf extract (200 or 400 mg/kg body weight; n=7 for each group) to ovariectomized rats for 10 weeks. After 10 weeks' administration, the rats in the olive leaf extract-administered groups showed significantly lower levels of serum triglyceride and very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL)-cholesterol compared with the rats in the control group, whereas the administration of olive leaf extract did not significantly change the elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. In addition, administration of high dose of olive leaf extract significantly decreased the liver triglyceride and increased serum estradiol levels. mRNA expressions of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPAR α) and acyl-CoA oxidase (ACO) were not affected by ovariectomy, however, administration of olive leaf extract significantly increased both PPAR α and ACO mRNA expression. Expression of adiponectin mRNA in adipose tissue was significantly decreased in the ovariectomized control group. Rats administered low-dose olive leaf extract showed significantly elevated adiponectin mRNA expression compared with rats in the ovariectomized control group. Even though dose-dependent effects were not observed in most of the measurements, these results suggest that genes involved in lipid metabolism may be regulated by olive leaf extract administration in ovariectomized rats.

Limited tolerance by insects to high temperatures across tropical elevational gradients and the implications of global warming for extinction.

PubMed

García-Robledo, Carlos; Kuprewicz, Erin K; Staines, Charles L; Erwin, Terry L; Kress, W John

2016-01-19

The critical thermal maximum (CTmax), the temperature at which motor control is lost in animals, has the potential to determine if species will tolerate global warming. For insects, tolerance to high temperatures decreases with latitude, suggesting that similar patterns may exist along elevational gradients as well. This study explored how CTmax varies among species and populations of a group of diverse tropical insect herbivores, the rolled-leaf beetles, across both broad and narrow elevational gradients. Data from 6,948 field observations and 8,700 museum specimens were used to map the elevational distributions of rolled-leaf beetles on two mountains in Costa Rica. CTmax was determined for 1,252 individual beetles representing all populations across the gradients. Initial morphological identifications suggested a total of 26 species with populations at different elevations displaying contrasting upper thermal limits. However, compared with morphological identifications, DNA barcodes (cytochrome oxidase I) revealed significant cryptic species diversity. DNA barcodes identified 42 species and haplotypes across 11 species complexes. These 42 species displayed much narrower elevational distributions and values of CTmax than the 26 morphologically defined species. In general, species found at middle elevations and on mountaintops are less tolerant to high temperatures than species restricted to lowland habitats. Species with broad elevational distributions display high CTmax throughout their ranges. We found no significant phylogenetic signal in CTmax, geography, or elevational range. The narrow variance in CTmax values for most rolled-leaf beetles, especially high-elevation species, suggests that the risk of extinction of insects may be substantial under some projected rates of global warming.

Limited tolerance by insects to high temperatures across tropical elevational gradients and the implications of global warming for extinction

PubMed Central

García-Robledo, Carlos; Kuprewicz, Erin K.; Staines, Charles L.; Erwin, Terry L.; Kress, W. John

2016-01-01

The critical thermal maximum (CTmax), the temperature at which motor control is lost in animals, has the potential to determine if species will tolerate global warming. For insects, tolerance to high temperatures decreases with latitude, suggesting that similar patterns may exist along elevational gradients as well. This study explored how CTmax varies among species and populations of a group of diverse tropical insect herbivores, the rolled-leaf beetles, across both broad and narrow elevational gradients. Data from 6,948 field observations and 8,700 museum specimens were used to map the elevational distributions of rolled-leaf beetles on two mountains in Costa Rica. CTmax was determined for 1,252 individual beetles representing all populations across the gradients. Initial morphological identifications suggested a total of 26 species with populations at different elevations displaying contrasting upper thermal limits. However, compared with morphological identifications, DNA barcodes (cytochrome oxidase I) revealed significant cryptic species diversity. DNA barcodes identified 42 species and haplotypes across 11 species complexes. These 42 species displayed much narrower elevational distributions and values of CTmax than the 26 morphologically defined species. In general, species found at middle elevations and on mountaintops are less tolerant to high temperatures than species restricted to lowland habitats. Species with broad elevational distributions display high CTmax throughout their ranges. We found no significant phylogenetic signal in CTmax, geography, or elevational range. The narrow variance in CTmax values for most rolled-leaf beetles, especially high-elevation species, suggests that the risk of extinction of insects may be substantial under some projected rates of global warming. PMID:26729867

Soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor-I in preterm infants with chorioamnionitis.

PubMed

Sato, Miho; Nishimaki, Shigeru; An, Hiromi; Shima, Yoshio; Naruto, Takuya; Sugai, Toshiyuki; Iwasaki, Shiho; Seki, Kazuo; Imagawa, Tomoyuki; Mori, Masaaki; Yokota, Shumpei

2009-04-01

The aim of our study was (i) to determine whether chorioamnionitis (CAM) is associated with an elevated soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor I (sTNFR-I) level and (ii) to examine the time course of the concentration of sTNFR-I in preterm infants after birth. We measured sTNFR-I levels in the cord blood of 112 preterm infants (gestational age < or =34 weeks), and those in peripheral blood of 30 preterm infants on days 7, 14, 21 and 28. The median value for the sTNFR-I was significantly elevated in 33 infants with CAM at stage 3 (4618 pg/mL) compared with the 52 infants without CAM (2866 pg/mL), or the 13 infants with CAM at stage 1 (3638 pg/mL) and the 14 infants at stage 2 (3242 pg/mL). The severity of CAM is an independent factor for the elevation of cord blood sTNFR-I. The sTNFR-I level on day 0 was significantly higher in eight infants with CAM at stage 3 than in the 22 infants without CAM or with CAM at stage 1 and 2; however there were no significant differences on days 7, 14, 21 and 28. The serum level of sTNFR-I showed a significant gradual decline with time. We suggest that there is an association between elevated sTNFR-I levels in cord blood and maternal CAM, and this elevation may reflect the fetal inflammation. However the elevation of sTNFR-I could not persist postnatally for a long time.

Frequency of sister-chromatid exchange among greenhouse farmers exposed to pesticides.

PubMed

Shaham, J; Kaufman, Z; Gurvich, R; Levi, Z

2001-04-05

Sister-chromatid exchange (SCE) was measured in peripheral lymphocytes of 104 greenhouse farmers exposed to pesticides and 44 unexposed workers. The results of SCEs are expressed in two variables: (a) mean number of SCEs per chromosome and, (b) proportion of high frequency cells (cells with more than eight SCEs). A high correlation was found between these two variables. The adjusted means of both SCEs variables were significantly higher among the farmers compared with the unexposed group (P < 0.01). Adjustment was made for smoking, age, education, and origin. The adjusted means of both SCE variables, were significantly elevated (P < 0.05) among the farmers who prepared and applied more than 70% of the pesticides by themselves compared with those who prepared and applied less than 70% of the pesticides by themselves. Both SCEs variables were also significantly elevated (P < 0.05) among farmers who were involved in more than 7.4 sprays per year compared with those with 7.4 or less sprays per year (P < 0.05). We found a tendency towards elevation of the two variables of SCEs among those who did not use protective measures while preparing the pesticides. Evaluation of the influence of years of exposure on the frequency of SCEs showed that the two variables of SCEs were higher among those farmers who were exposed to pesticides for more than 21 years than among those with less than 21 years of exposure. The variables that had the most influence on the elevation of SCEs were self-preparation of the pesticide mixtures and the number of sprayings per year. Because the farmers used a mixture of almost 24 different chemical classes it was impossible to attribute exposure to a specific pesticide or group of pesticides to single farmers. Our finding of a significant increase of SCEs frequency in peripheral lymphocytes in greenhouse farmers indicates a potential cytogenetic hazard due to pesticides exposure.

Changes in the Prevalence of Rheumatic Diseases in Shantou, China, in the Past Three Decades: A COPCORD Study.

PubMed

Zeng, Shao-Ying; Gong, Yao; Zhang, Yu-Ping; Chen, Su-Biao; Chen, Jun-Yang; Lin, Chu-Qing; Peng, Jian-Hua; Hou, Zhi-Duo; Zhong, Jian-Qiu; Liang, Hong-Jin; Huang, Guo-Hai; Wang, Dan-Min; Lai, Huai-Yuan; Li, Li-Ping; Zeng, Qing Yu

2015-01-01

This study aimed to clarify changes in the prevalence of rheumatic diseases in Shantou, China, in the past 3 decades and validate whether stair-climbing is a risk factor for knee pain and knee osteoarthritis (KOA). The World Health Organization-International League Against Rheumatism Community Oriented Program for Control of Rheumatic Diseases (COPCORD) protocol was implemented. In all, 2337 adults living in buildings without elevators and 1719 adults living in buildings with elevators were surveyed. The prevalence of rheumatic pain at any site and in the knee was 15.7% and 10.2%, respectively; both types of pain had a significantly higher incidence in residents of buildings without elevators than was reported by people who lived in buildings with elevators (14.9% vs. 10.6% and 11.32% vs. 8.82%, respectively) (both P < 0.0001). The prevalence of rheumatic pain in the neck, lumbar spine, shoulder, elbow, and foot was 5.6%, 4.5%, 3.1%, 1.4%, and 1.8%, respectively; these findings were similar to the data from the 1987 rural survey, but were somewhat lower than data reported in the urban and suburban surveys of the 1990s, with the exception of neck and lumbar pain. The prevalence of KOA, gout, and fibromyalgia was 7.10%, 1.08%, and 0.07%, respectively, and their prevalence increased significantly compared with those in previous studies from the 20th century. There were no significant differences in the prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) (0.35%) or ankylosing spondylitis (AS) (0.31%) compared to that reported in prior surveys. The prevalence of KOA was higher in for residents of buildings without elevators than that in those who had access to elevators (16-64 years, 5.89% vs. 3.95%, P = 0.004; 16->85 years, 7.64% vs. 6.26%, P = 0.162). The prevalence of RA and AS remained stable, whereas that of KOA, gout, and fibromyalgia has increased significantly in Shantou, China, during the past 3 decades. Stair-climbing might be an important risk factor for knee pain and KOA.

Changes in the Prevalence of Rheumatic Diseases in Shantou, China, in the Past Three Decades: A COPCORD Study

PubMed Central

Zeng, Shao-ying; Gong, Yao; Zhang, Yu-ping; Chen, Su-biao; Chen, Jun-yang; Lin, Chu-qing; Peng, Jian-hua; Hou, Zhi-duo; Zhong, Jian-qiu; Liang, Hong-jin; Huang, Guo-hai; Wang, Dan-min; Lai, Huai-yuan; Li, Li-ping; Zeng, Qing Yu

2015-01-01

This study aimed to clarify changes in the prevalence of rheumatic diseases in Shantou, China, in the past 3 decades and validate whether stair-climbing is a risk factor for knee pain and knee osteoarthritis (KOA). The World Health Organization-International League Against Rheumatism Community Oriented Program for Control of Rheumatic Diseases (COPCORD) protocol was implemented. In all, 2337 adults living in buildings without elevators and 1719 adults living in buildings with elevators were surveyed. The prevalence of rheumatic pain at any site and in the knee was 15.7% and 10.2%, respectively; both types of pain had a significantly higher incidence in residents of buildings without elevators than was reported by people who lived in buildings with elevators (14.9% vs. 10.6% and 11.32% vs. 8.82%, respectively) (both P < 0.0001). The prevalence of rheumatic pain in the neck, lumbar spine, shoulder, elbow, and foot was 5.6%, 4.5%, 3.1%, 1.4%, and 1.8%, respectively; these findings were similar to the data from the 1987 rural survey, but were somewhat lower than data reported in the urban and suburban surveys of the 1990s, with the exception of neck and lumbar pain. The prevalence of KOA, gout, and fibromyalgia was 7.10%, 1.08%, and 0.07%, respectively, and their prevalence increased significantly compared with those in previous studies from the 20th century. There were no significant differences in the prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) (0.35%) or ankylosing spondylitis (AS) (0.31%) compared to that reported in prior surveys. The prevalence of KOA was higher in for residents of buildings without elevators than that in those who had access to elevators (16–64 years, 5.89% vs. 3.95%, P = 0.004; 16->85 years, 7.64% vs. 6.26%, P = 0.162). The prevalence of RA and AS remained stable, whereas that of KOA, gout, and fibromyalgia has increased significantly in Shantou, China, during the past 3 decades. Stair-climbing might be an important risk factor for knee pain and KOA. PMID:26406469

Analysis of stable isotope ratios (δ18O and δ2H) in precipitation of the Verde River watershed, Arizona 2003 through 2014

USGS Publications Warehouse

Beisner, Kimberly R.; Paretti, Nicholas V.; Tucci, Rachel S.

2016-04-25

Stable isotope delta values (δ18O and δ2H) of precipitation can vary with elevation, and quantification of the precipitation elevation gradient can be used to predict recharge elevation within a watershed. Precipitation samples were analyzed for stable isotope delta values between 2003 and 2014 from the Verde River watershed of north-central Arizona. Results indicate a significant decrease in summer isotopic values overtime at 3,100-, 4,100-, 6,100-, 7,100-, and 8,100-feet elevation. The updated local meteoric water line for the area is δ2H = 7.11 δ18O + 3.40. Equations to predict stable isotopic values based on elevation were updated from previous publications in Blasch and others (2006), Blasch and Bryson (2007), and Bryson and others (2007). New equations were separated for samples from the Camp Verde to Flagstaff transect and the Prescott to Chino Valley transect. For the Camp Verde to Flagstaff transect, the new equations for winter precipitation are δ18O = -0.0004z − 8.87 and δ2H = -0.0029z − 59.8 (where z represents elevation in feet) and the summer precipitation equations were not statistically significant. For the Prescott to Chino Valley transect, the new equations for summer precipitation are δ18O = -0.0005z − 3.22 and δ2H = -0.0022z − 27.9; the winter precipitation equations were not statistically significant and, notably, stable isotope values were similar across all elevations. Interpretation of elevation of recharge contributing to surface and groundwaters in the Verde River watershed using the updated equations for the Camp Verde to Flagstaff transect will give lower elevation values compared with interpretations presented in the previous studies. For waters in the Prescott and Chino Valley area, more information is needed to understand local controls on stable isotope values related to elevation.

Association between alpha-fetoprotein and metabolic syndrome in a Chinese asymptomatic population: a cross-sectional study.

PubMed

Chen, Yimin; Zhao, Ying; Feng, Linmin; Zhang, Jie; Zhang, Juanwen; Feng, Guofang

2016-04-27

Metabolic syndrome is closely associated with an increased risk for fatty liver disease morbidity and mortality. Recently, studies have reported that participants with fatty liver disease have higher serum alpha-fetoprotein levels than those without. We investigated the association between alpha-fetoprotein levels and the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in a Chinese asymptomatic population. A cross-sectional study was performed with 7,755 participants who underwent individual health examinations. Clinical and anthropometric parameters were collected and serum alpha-fetoprotein levels and other clinical and laboratory parameters were measured. Logistic regression analysis was used to examine associations between alpha-fetoprotein and metabolic syndrome. Participants with metabolic syndrome had significantly higher (p < 0.001) alpha-fetoprotein levels than those without, though all alpha-fetoprotein levels were within the reference interval. The association between the components of metabolic syndrome (central obesity, elevated blood pressure, elevated triglycerides, reduced high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and elevated fasting plasma glucose) and alpha-fetoprotein levels was evaluated. Alpha-fetoprotein levels in the elevated triglycerides, reduced high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and elevated fasting plasma glucose groups were significantly different (p=0.002, p < 0.001, p=0.020) compared with alpha-fetoprotein in the normal triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and fasting plasma glucose groups. Logistic regression analyses showed an association between alpha-fetoprotein levels and increased risk for metabolic syndrome, the presence of reduced high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and elevated fasting plasma glucose, but not with obesity, elevated blood pressure, or triglycerides. These results suggest a significant association between alpha-fetoprotein and metabolic syndrome.

Effect of acute intraocular pressure elevation on the minimum rim width in normal, ocular hypertensive and glaucoma eyes.

PubMed

Sharma, Sourabh; Tun, Tin A; Baskaran, Mani; Atalay, Eray; Thakku, Sri Gowtham; Liang, Zhang; Milea, Dan; Strouthidis, Nicholas G; Aung, Tin; Girard, Michael Ja

2018-01-01

To estimate and compare changes in the Bruch's membrane opening-minimum rim width (BMO-MRW) and area in normal, ocular hypertensive and glaucoma eyes following acute elevations in intraocular pressure (IOP). The optic nerve heads (ONHs) of 104 subjects (31 normals, 20 ocular hypertension (OHT) and 53 with primary glaucoma) were imaged using Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT; Spectralis, Heidelberg Engineering, Germany). IOP was raised twice by applying a force (0.64 n then 0.9 n) to the anterior sclera using an ophthalmo-dynamometer. After each IOP increment, IOP was held constant, measured with a Tonopen (AVIA applanation tonometer, Reichert, Depew, New York, USA), and ONH was rescanned with OCT. In each OCT volume, BMO-MRW and area were calculated and at each IOP increment. The baseline MRW was significantly smaller in glaucoma subjects (174.3±54.3 µm) compared with normal (287.4±42.2 µm, p<0.001) and OHT subjects (255.4±45.3 µm, p<0.001). MRW of glaucoma subjects was significantly thinner at the first and second IOP elevations than that at baseline (both p<0.01), but no significant change was noted in normal and OHT subjects. There was no significant change of BMO area at acute IOP elevations from baseline in all diagnoses (all p>0.05). Acute IOP elevation leads to compression of the nerve fibre layers of neuroretinal rim in glaucoma subjects only without changing ONH size. This suggests that the neural and connective tissues at ONH level in glaucoma subjects are more susceptible to acute IOP episodes than OHT or normal controls. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2018. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

Circulating resistin is a significant predictor of mortality independently from cardiovascular comorbidities in elderly, non-diabetic subjects with chronic kidney disease.

PubMed

Marouga, Anna; Dalamaga, Maria; Kastania, Anastasia N; Kroupis, Christos; Lagiou, Maria; Saounatsou, Koralia; Dimas, Kleanthi; Vlahakos, Demetrios V

2016-01-01

Resistin is associated with inflammation, atherosclerosis and cardiovascular (CV) disease. To associate circulating resistin with all-cause and CV mortality in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. Serum resistin was determined in a cohort of 80 elderly, non-diabetic patients with stable CKD at different stages in a follow-up period of 5 years. Circulating resistin was significantly elevated in deceased compared to alive patients. Resistin emerged as an independent biomarker of all-cause and CV mortality after a 5-year follow-up period. Elevated circulating resistin was a significant independent predictor of CV and all-cause mortality in elderly, non-diabetic CKD patients.

Effects of elevated O₃ on microbes in the rhizosphere of mycorrhizal snap bean with different O₃ sensitivity.

PubMed

Wang, Shuguang; Wang, Fei; Diao, Xiaojun; He, Liansheng

2014-02-01

Elevated ozone (O₃) generally affects microbial biomass and community structure in rhizosphere, but these effects are unclear in mycorrhizal plants because arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi often benefit microbial growth in the rhizosphere. Here, we investigate the effects of elevated O₃ on microbial biomass and community structure in the rhizosphere of mycorrhizal snap bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) with different O₃ sensitivity (R123: O₃-tolerant plant; S156: O₃-sensitive plant) based on the phospholipid fatty acids (PLFAs) method. Compared with ambient O₃, elevated O₃ significantly decreased mycorrhizal colonization rates in the 2 genotypes, especially in S156 plants. The wet masses of shoot and root were decreased by elevated O₃ in the 2 genotypes independent of AM inoculation, but they were higher in the mycorrhizal plant than in the nonmycorrhizal plant independent of O₃ concentration. Elevated O₃ significantly decreased the relative proportion of specific fungal PLFAs in the nonmycorrhizal plant, but this effect disappeared in the mycorrhizal plant. The relative proportions of specific PLFAs of other microbial groups (Gram-positive, Gram-negative, and actinomycete) in the rhizosphere and all specific PLFAs in the hyphosphere were not affected by elevated O₃ independent of AM inoculation. In the rhizosphere of the 2 genotypes, microbial community structure was changed by AM inoculation and elevated O₃ as well as by their interaction; in the hyphosphere, however, microbial community structure was changed by elevated O₃ only in R123 plants. It is concluded that AM inoculation can offset negative effect of elevated O₃ on fungal biomass but seems to enhance shift of microbial community structure in rhizosphere under elevated O₃.

Olympic boxing is associated with elevated levels of the neuronal protein tau in plasma.

PubMed

Neselius, Sanna; Zetterberg, Henrik; Blennow, Kaj; Randall, Jeffrey; Wilson, David; Marcusson, Jan; Brisby, Helena

2013-01-01

The aim of this study was to investigate if olympic (amateur) boxing is associated with elevation of brain injury biomarkers in peripheral blood compared to controls. Thirty olympic boxers competing in at least 47 bouts were compared to 25 controls. Blood was collected from the controls at one occasion and from the boxers within 1-6 days after a bout and after a rest period of at least 14 days. Tau concentration in plasma was determined using a novel single molecule ELISA assay and S-100B, glial fibrillary acidic protein, brain-derived neurotrophic factor and amyloid β 1-42 were determined using standard immunoassays. None of the boxers had been knocked-out during the bout. Plasma-tau was significantly increased in the boxers after a bout compared to controls (mean ± SD, 2.46 ± 5.10 vs. 0.79 ± 0.961 ng L(-1), p = 0.038). The other brain injury markers did not differ between the groups. Plasma-tau decreased significantly in the boxers after a resting period compared to after a bout (p = 0.030). Olympic boxing is associated with elevation of tau in plasma. The repetitive minimal head injury in boxing may lead to axonal injuries that can be diagnosed with a blood test.

Remodeling of atrial ATP-sensitive K+ channels in a model of salt-induced elevated blood pressure

PubMed Central

Lader, Joshua M.; Vasquez, Carolina; Bao, Li; Maass, Karen; Qu, Jiaxiang; Kefalogianni, Eirini; Fishman, Glenn I.; Coetzee, William A.

2011-01-01

Hypertension is associated with the development of atrial fibrillation; however, the electrophysiological consequences of this condition remain poorly understood. ATP-sensitive K+ (KATP) channels, which contribute to ventricular arrhythmias, are also expressed in the atria. We hypothesized that salt-induced elevated blood pressure (BP) leads to atrial KATP channel activation and increased arrhythmia inducibility. Elevated BP was induced in mice with a high-salt diet (HS) for 4 wk. High-resolution optical mapping was used to measure atrial arrhythmia inducibility, effective refractory period (ERP), and action potential duration at 90% repolarization (APD90). Excised patch clamping was performed to quantify KATP channel properties and density. KATP channel protein expression was also evaluated. Atrial arrhythmia inducibility was 22% higher in HS hearts compared with control hearts. ERP and APD90 were significantly shorter in the right atrial appendage and left atrial appendage of HS hearts compared with control hearts. Perfusion with 1 μM glibenclamide or 300 μM tolbutamide significantly decreased arrhythmia inducibility and prolonged APD90 in HS hearts compared with untreated HS hearts. KATP channel density was 156% higher in myocytes isolated from HS animals compared with control animals. Sulfonylurea receptor 1 protein expression was increased in the left atrial appendage and right atrial appendage of HS animals (415% and 372% of NS animals, respectively). In conclusion, KATP channel activation provides a mechanistic link between salt-induced elevated BP and increased atrial arrhythmia inducibility. The findings of this study have important implications for the treatment and prevention of atrial arrhythmias in the setting of hypertensive heart disease and may lead to new therapeutic approaches. PMID:21724863

[Anesthesia experiences on laparoscopic nephrectomy with da Vinci S robotics].

PubMed

Mou, Ling; Lan, Zhixun

2015-09-01

To summarize the clinical anesthesia experiences in 20 patients who underwent laparoscopic nephrectomy with da Vinci S robotics.
 Anesthesia data of 20 patients from Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, who underwent laparoscopic nephrectomy with da Vinci S robotics from August 2014 to November 2014, were analyzed and summarized. The anesthesia time, operation time, CO(2) pneumoperitoneum time, PaCO(2) and PETCO(2) were recorded.
 All patients were anesthetized and underwent surgery with da Vinci S robotics. The anesthesia time was (220±14) min, the operation time was (187±11) min, and the CO(2) pneumoperitoneum time was (180±13) min. The PaCO(2) and PETCO(2) were significantly elevated at 1.5 h after operation compared with those at the baseline (before pneumoperitoneum) (P<0.05). The pH value was significantly decreased at 2.5 h after operation compared to that at the baseline (P<0.05). The peak airway pressure of inspiration was significantly elevated at 0.5 h after the beginning of pneumoperitoneum compared to that at the baseline (P<0.05).
 The hemodynamics is stable during the laparoscopic nephrectomy with da vinci S robotics. However, the duration of CO(2) pneumoperitoneum is significantly increased compared to that of other surgical procedures, resulting in high airway resistance and acid-base disturbance.

Growth and reproduction of the alpine grasshopper Miramella alpina feeding on CO2-enriched dwarf shrubs at treeline.

PubMed

Asshoff, Roman; Hättenschwiler, Stephan

2005-01-01

The consequences for plant-insect interactions of atmospheric changes in alpine ecosystems are not well understood. Here, we tested the effects of elevated CO(2) on leaf quality in two dwarf shrub species (Vaccinium myrtillus and V. uliginosum) and the response of the alpine grasshopper (Miramella alpina) feeding on these plants in a field experiment at the alpine treeline (2,180 m a.s.l.) in Davos, Switzerland. Relative growth rates (RGR) of M. alpina nymphs were lower when they were feeding on V. myrtillus compared to V. uliginosum, and were affected by elevated CO(2) depending on plant species and nymph developmental stage. Changes in RGR correlated with CO(2)-induced changes in leaf water, nitrogen, and starch concentrations. Elevated CO(2) resulted in reduced female adult weight irrespective of plant species, and prolonged development time on V. uliginosum only, but there were no significant differences in nymphal mortality. Newly molted adults of M. alpina produced lighter eggs and less secretion (serving as egg protection) under elevated CO(2). When grasshoppers had a choice among four different plant species grown either under ambient or elevated CO(2), V. myrtillus and V. uliginosum consumption increased under elevated CO(2) in females while it decreased in males compared to ambient CO(2)-grown leaves. Our findings suggest that rising atmospheric CO(2) distinctly affects leaf chemistry in two important dwarf shrub species at the alpine treeline, leading to changes in feeding behavior, growth, and reproduction of the most important insect herbivore in this system. Changes in plant-grasshopper interactions might have significant long-term impacts on herbivore pressure, community dynamics and ecosystem stability in the alpine treeline ecotone.

Elevated Serum PSA is Associated With Human Herpesvirus 8 Infection and Increased Circulating Cytokine Levels in Men From Tobago.

PubMed

Henning, Jill D; Karamchandani, Jaideep M; Bonachea, Luis A; Bunker, Clareann H; Patrick, Alan L; Jenkins, Frank J

2017-05-01

Serum-prostate specific antigen (PSA) levels have been used for many years as a biomarker for prostate cancer. This usage is under scrutiny due to the fact that elevated PSA levels can be caused by other conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia and infections of or injury to the prostate. As a result, the identification of specific pathogens capable of increasing serum levels of PSA is important. A potential candidate responsible for elevated PSA is human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8). We have reported previously that HHV-8 is capable of infecting and establishing a latent infection in the prostate. In this current study we test the hypothesis that HHV-8 infection is associated with elevated PSA levels. Circulating cytokine levels between men with elevated PSA and controls are also compared. HHV-8 serostatus was determined among men with elevated serum PSA (≥4 ng/ml; n = 168, no prostate cancer on biopsy) and age-matched controls (PSA <4 ng/ml; n = 234), Circulating cytokine levels were determined among a subset of each group (116 with elevated PSA and 85 controls). Men with an elevated serum PSA were significantly more likely to be HHV-8 seropositive (42.9%) than the age-matched cancer-free men (22.2%; OR 2.51; 95%CI 1.48-4.29, P = 00001). Comparison of circulating cytokine levels between men with elevated serum PSA and controls indicated that elevated serum PSA is associated with a pro-inflammatory response with a mixed Th1/Th2 response while HHV-8 infection was associated with significantly higher levels of IL12p70, IL-10, and IL-13 indicating a Th2 immune response. We found a significant association between HHV-8 infection and increased levels of serum PSA. In an age of patient-centered medicine, men with an elevated serum PSA should be considered for HHV-8 serology testing to determine if HHV-8 is responsible for the elevated PSA. Prostate 77: 617-624, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Plant growth in elevated CO2 alters mitochondrial number and chloroplast fine structure

PubMed Central

Griffin, Kevin L.; Anderson, O. Roger; Gastrich, Mary D.; Lewis, James D.; Lin, Guanghui; Schuster, William; Seemann, Jeffrey R.; Tissue, David T.; Turnbull, Matthew H.; Whitehead, David

2001-01-01

With increasing interest in the effects of elevated atmospheric CO2 on plant growth and the global carbon balance, there is a need for greater understanding of how plants respond to variations in atmospheric partial pressure of CO2. Our research shows that elevated CO2 produces significant fine structural changes in major cellular organelles that appear to be an important component of the metabolic responses of plants to this global change. Nine species (representing seven plant families) in several experimental facilities with different CO2-dosing technologies were examined. Growth in elevated CO2 increased numbers of mitochondria per unit cell area by 1.3–2.4 times the number in control plants grown in lower CO2 and produced a statistically significant increase in the amount of chloroplast stroma (nonappressed) thylakoid membranes compared with those in lower CO2 treatments. There was no observable change in size of the mitochondria. However, in contrast to the CO2 effect on mitochondrial number, elevated CO2 promoted a decrease in the rate of mass-based dark respiration. These changes may reflect a major shift in plant metabolism and energy balance that may help to explain enhanced plant productivity in response to elevated atmospheric CO2 concentrations. PMID:11226263

Elevated CO{sub 2} and leaf shape: Are dandelions getting toothier?

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

Thomas, S.C.; Bazzaz, F.A.

1996-01-01

Heteroblastic leaf development in Taraxacum officinale is compared between plants grown under ambient (350 ppm) vs. elevated (700 ppm) CO{sub 2} levels. Leaves of elevated CO{sub 2} plants exhibited more deeply incised leaf margins and relatively more slender leaf laminae than leaves of ambient CO{sub 2} plants. These differences were found to be significant in allometric analyses that controlled for differences in leaf size, as well as analyses that controlled for leaf development order. The effects of elevated CO{sub 2} on leaf shape were most pronounced when plants were grown individually, but detectable differences were also found in plants grownmore » at high density. Although less dramatic than in Taraxacum, significant effects of elevated CO{sub 2} on leaf shape were also found in two other weedy rosette species, Plantago major and Rumex crispus. These observations support the long-standing hypothesis that leaf carbohydrate level plays an important role in regulating heteroblastic leaf development, though elevated CO{sub 2} may also affect leaf development through direct hormonal interactions or increased leaf water potential. In Taraxacum, pronounced modifications of leaf shape were found at CO{sub 2} levels predicted to occur within the next century. 33 refs., 5 figs.« less

Selective loss of orientation column maps in visual cortex during brief elevation of intraocular pressure.

PubMed

Chen, Xin; Sun, Chao; Huang, Luoxiu; Shou, Tiande

2003-01-01

To compare the orientation column maps elicited by different spatial frequency gratings in cortical area 17 of cats before and during brief elevation of intraocular pressure (IOP). IOP was elevated by injecting saline into the anterior chamber of a cat's eye through a syringe needle. The IOP was elevated enough to cause a retinal perfusion pressure (arterial pressure minus IOP) of approximately 30 mm Hg during a brief elevation of IOP. The visual stimulus gratings were varied in spatial frequency, whereas other parameters were kept constant. The orientation column maps of the cortical area 17 were monocularly elicited by drifting gratings of different spatial frequencies and revealed by a brain intrinsic signal optical imaging system. These maps were compared before and during short-term elevation of IOP. The response amplitude of the orientation maps in area 17 decreased during a brief elevation of IOP. This decrease was dependent on the retinal perfusion pressure but not on the absolute IOP. The location of the most visible maps was spatial-frequency dependent. The blurring or loss of the pattern of the orientation maps was most severe when high-spatial-frequency gratings were used and appeared most significantly on the posterior part of the exposed cortex while IOP was elevated. However, the basic patterns of the maps remained unchanged. Changes in cortical signal were not due to changes in the optics of the eye with elevation of IOP. A stable normal IOP is essential for maintaining normal visual cortical functions. During a brief and high elevation of IOP, the cortical processing of high-spatial-frequency visual information was diminished because of a selectively functional decline of the retinogeniculocortical X pathway by a mechanism of retinal circulation origin.

Repeated measurement of nasal lavage fluid chemokines in school-age children with asthma.

PubMed

Noah, Terry L; Tudor, Gail E; Ivins, Sally S; Murphy, Paula C; Peden, David B; Henderson, Frederick W

2006-02-01

Inflammatory processes at the mucosal surface may play a role in maintenance of asthma pathophysiology. Cross-sectional studies in asthmatic patients suggest that chemokines such as interleukin 8 (IL-8) are overproduced by respiratory epithelium. To test the hypothesis that chemokine levels are persistently elevated in the respiratory secretions of asthmatic children at a stable baseline. We measured nasal lavage fluid (NLF) levels of chemokines and other mediators at 3- to 4-month intervals in a longitudinal study of asthmatic children, with nonasthmatic siblings as controls. In a linear mixed-model analysis, both family and day of visit had significant effects on nasal mediators. Thus, data for 12 asthmatic-nonasthmatic sibling pairs who had 3 or more same-day visits were analyzed separately. For sibling pairs, median eosinophil cationic protein levels derived from serial measurements in NLF were elevated in asthmatic patients compared with nonasthmatic patients, with a near-significant tendency for elevation of total protein and eotaxin levels as well. However, no significant differences were found for IL-8 or several other chemokines. Ratios of IL-13 or IL-5 to interferon-gamma released by house dust mite antigen-stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells, tested on a single occasion, were significantly increased for asthmatic patients. Substantial temporal and family-related variability exists in nasal inflammation in asthmatic children. Although higher levels of eosinophil cationic protein are usually present in NLF of patients with stable asthma compared with patients without asthma, chemokines other than eotaxin are not consistently increased. Eosinophil activation at the mucosal surface is a more consistent predictor of asthmatic symptoms than nonspecific elevation of epithelium-derived inflammatory chemokine levels.

Aspergillus fumigatus Increased PAR-2 Expression and Elevated Proinflammatory Cytokines Expression Through the Pathway of PAR-2/ERK1/2 in Cornea.

PubMed

Niu, Yawen; Zhao, Guiqiu; Li, Cui; Lin, Jing; Jiang, Nan; Che, Chengye; Zhang, Jie; Xu, Qiang

2018-01-01

To determine the role of protease-activated receptor-2 (PAR-2) in cornea infected by Aspergillus fumigatus. PAR-2 was tested in normal and infected corneas of C57BL/6 mice. Mice corneas were infected with A. fumigatus with or without pretreatment of PAR-2 antagonist (FSLLRY-NH2). Polymorphonuclear neutrophilic leukocytes (PMNs) were stimulated with 75% ethanol-killed A. fumigatus with or without pretreatment of FSLLRY-NH2. Disease severity was documented by clinical score and photographs with a slit lamp. PCR, Western blot, and ELISA tested expression of PAR-2, IL-1β, TNF-α, IFN-γ, MIP-2, and p-ERK1/2. PMN infiltration was assessed by myeloperoxidase assay and immunofluorescent staining. PAR-2 expression was significantly elevated by A. fumigatus, whereas the upregulation was significantly inhibited by FSLLRY-NH2 in mice corneas. FSLLRY-NH2 decreased disease response, PMN infiltration, and proinflammatory cytokine expression compared with infected control. In PMNs, PAR-2 expression was also significantly increased by A. fumigatus, which was significantly inhibited by FSLLRY-NH2. FSLLRY-NH2 significantly inhibited proinflammatory cytokine protein expression, as compared with that in infected control cells, which may be modified by p-ERK1/2. These data provide evidence that A. fumigatus increased PAR-2 expression and elevated disease, PMN infiltration, and proinflammatory cytokine expression through PAR-2, which may be modified by p-ERK1/2.

TSH and prolactin responses to thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH) and domperidone in patients with empty sella syndrome.

PubMed

Valensi, P; Combes, M E; Perret, G; Attali, J R

1996-05-01

The aim of this study was to investigate TSH and PRL response to TRH and domperidone, an antidopaminergic drug which does not cross the blood-brain barrier, in 16 patients with primary empty sella (PES) and either normal or elevated plasma PRL level and to compare it with the response observed in 8 patients with prolactinoma. In the patients with PES and hyperprolactinemia, the PRL response to TRH was significantly lower than in the controls and the patients with PES and normal PRL, which suggests there is impaired PRL synthesis and release in cases of PES with hyperprolactinemia. The TSH response to domperidone was significantly elevated in patients with PES and either normal or elevated PRL, as in patients with prolactinoma. The PRL response to domperidone was significantly reduced in patients with PES and hyperprolactinemia as in patients with prolactionoma. These results suggestthat in PES with prolactinoma the inhibiting dopaminergic tone is increased on the thyrotropic cells and reduced on the lactotropic cells in PES with elevated PRL and that some patients with PES might bear a microprolactinoma in the bottom of the sella which remained undetected by the CT scan.

Effects of β-Hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate Free Acid Ingestion and Resistance Exercise on the Acute Endocrine Response

PubMed Central

Townsend, Jeremy R.; Hoffman, Jay R.; Gonzalez, Adam M.; Jajtner, Adam R.; Boone, Carleigh H.; Robinson, Edward H.; Mangine, Gerald T.; Wells, Adam J.; Fragala, Maren S.; Fukuda, David H.; Stout, Jeffrey R.

2015-01-01

Objective. To examine the endocrine response to a bout of heavy resistance exercise following acute β-hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate free acid (HMB-FA) ingestion. Design. Twenty resistance trained men were randomized and consumed either 1 g of HMB-FA (BetaTor) or placebo (PL) 30 min prior to performing an acute heavy resistance exercise protocol. Blood was obtained before (PRE), immediately after (IP), and 30 min after exercise (30P). Circulating concentrations of testosterone, growth hormone (GH), insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1), and insulin were assayed. Data were analyzed with a repeated measures ANOVA and area under the curve (AUC) was analyzed by the trapezoidal rule. Results. The resistance exercise protocol resulted in significant elevations from PRE in testosterone (P < 0.01), GH (P < 0.01), and insulin (P = 0.05) at IP, with GH (P < 0.01) and insulin (P < 0.01) remaining elevated at 30P. A significant interaction was noted between groups in the plasma GH response at IP, which was significantly higher following HMB-FA compared to PL (P < 0.01). AUC analysis revealed an elevated GH and IGF-1 response in the HMB-FA group compared to PL. Conclusion. HMB-FA prior to resistance exercise augments the GH response to high volume resistance exercise compared to PL. These findings provide further support for the potential anabolic benefits associated with HMB supplementation. PMID:25792982

Restaurant inspection frequency: The RestoFreq Study.

PubMed

Medu, Olanrewaju; Turner, Hollie; Cushon, Jennifer A; Melis, Deborah; Rea, Leslie; Abdellatif, Treena; Neudorf, Cory O; Schwandt, Michael

2017-03-01

Foodborne illness is an important contributor to morbidity and health system costs in Canada. Using number of critical hazards as a proxy for food safety, we sought to better understand how to improve food safety in restaurants. We compared the current standard of annual inspections to twice-yearly inspections among restaurants "at risk" for food safety infractions. These were restaurants that had three or more elevated-risk inspection ratings in the preceding 36 months. We conducted a two-arm randomized controlled trial between November 2012 and October 2014. The intervention was twice-yearly routine restaurant inspection compared to standard once-yearly routine inspection. Included were all restaurants within Saskatoon Health Region that were assessed as "at risk", with 73 restaurants in the intervention arm and 78 in the control arm. Independent sample t-tests were conducted between groups to compare: i) average number of critical hazards per inspection; and ii) proportion of inspections resulting in a rating indicating an elevated hazard. Over time we noted statistically significant improvements across both study arms, in number of both critical food safety hazards (decreased by 61%) and elevated-risk inspection ratings (decreased by 45%) (p < 0.0001). We observed no significant differences between the two groups pre- or post-intervention. Results suggest increasing the number of annual routine inspections in high-risk restaurants was not associated with a significant difference in measures of compliance with food safety regulations. Findings of this study do not provide evidence supporting increased frequency of restaurant inspection from annually to twice annually.

Have bird distributions shifted along an elevational gradient on a tropical mountain?

PubMed

Campos-Cerqueira, Marconi; Arendt, Wayne J; Wunderle, Joseph M; Aide, T Mitchell

2017-12-01

An upward shift in elevation is one of the most conspicuous species responses to climate change. Nevertheless, downward shifts and, apparently, the absences of response have also been recently reported. Given the growing evidence of multiple responses of species distributions due to climate change and the paucity of studies in the tropics, we evaluated the response of a montane bird community to climate change, without the confounding effects of land-use change. To test for elevational shifts, we compared the distribution of 21 avian species in 1998 and 2015 using occupancy models. The historical data set was based on point counts, whereas the contemporary data set was based on acoustic monitoring. We detected a similar number of species in historical (36) and contemporary data sets (33). We show an overall pattern of no significant change in range limits for most species, although there was a significant shift in the range limit of eight species (38%). Elevation limits shifted mostly upward, and this pattern was more common for upper than lower limits. Our results highlight the variability of species responses to climate change and illustrate how acoustic monitoring provides an easy and powerful way to monitor animal populations along elevational gradients.

Evaluation of prolonged fatigue post-West Nile virus infection and association of fatigue with elevated antiviral and proinflammatory cytokines.

PubMed

Garcia, Melissa N; Hause, Anne M; Walker, Christopher M; Orange, Jordan S; Hasbun, Rodrigo; Murray, Kristy O

2014-09-01

This study aimed to characterize fatigue postinfection among study participants with a history of West Nile virus (WNV) infection and determine whether antiviral and pro-inflammatory cytokines were significantly elevated in those reporting prolonged fatigue. We found that 31% (44/140) of study participants experienced prolonged (more than 6 months) fatigue postinfection, with an average length of fatigue duration of 5 years. Females, those younger than 50 years of age, and those with symptomatic clinical WNV disease were significantly more likely to report fatigue. Pro-inflammatory and antiviral cytokines (granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor, interferon-γ, interferon-γ inducing protein 10, interleukin 2, interleukin 6, and interleukin 12p70) were significantly elevated in those reporting fatigue postinfection compared to those not reporting fatigue. Clinicians should consider history of WNV infection as a possible factor when evaluating causes of prolonged fatigue following a febrile viral illness in their patients.

Response of humic acid formation to elevated nitrate during chicken manure composting.

PubMed

Shi, Mingzi; Wei, Zimin; Wang, Liqin; Wu, Junqiu; Zhang, Duoying; Wei, Dan; Tang, Yu; Zhao, Yue

2018-06-01

Nitrate can stimulate microbes to degrade aromatic compounds, whereas humic acid (HA) as a high molecular weight aromatic compound, its formation may be affected by elevated nitrate during composting. Therefore, this study is conducted to determine the effect of elevated nitrate on HA formation. Five tests were executed by adding different nitrate concentrations to chicken manure composting. Results demonstrate that the concentration of HA in treatment group is significantly decreased compared with control group (p < 0.05), especially in the highest nitrate concentration group. RDA indicates that the microbes associated with HA and environmental parameters are influenced by elevated nitrate. Furthermore, structural equation model reveals that elevated nitrate reduces HA formation by mediating microbes directly, or by affecting ammonia and pH as the indirect drivers to regulate microbial community structure. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Description, instructions, and verification for Basinsoft, a computer program to quantify drainage- basin characteristics

USGS Publications Warehouse

Harvey, Craig A.; Eash, David A.

1996-01-01

Statistical comparison tests indicate Basinsoft quantifications are not significantly different from manual topographic-map measurements for 9 of 10 basin characteristics tested. The results also indicate that elevation contours generated by ARC/INFO from l:250,000-scale digital elevation model (DEM) data are over-generalized when compared to elevation contours shown on l:250,000-scale topographic maps, and that quantification of basin-slope thus is underestimated using DEM data. A qualitative comparison test indicated that the Basinsoft module used to quantify basin slope is valid and that differences in the quantification of basin slope are due to sourcedata differences.

Effect of Elevated Atmospheric CO2 and Temperature on Leaf Optical Properties and Chlorophyll Content in Acer saccharum (Marsh.)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Carter, Gregory A.; Bahadur, Raj; Norby, Richard J.

1999-01-01

Elevated atmospheric CO2 pressure and numerous causes of plant stress often result in decreased leaf chlorophyll contents and thus would be expected to alter leaf optical properties. Hypotheses that elevated carbon dioxide pressure and air temperature would alter leaf optical properties were tested for sugar maple (Acer saccharum Marsh.) in the middle of its fourth growing season under treatment. The saplings had been growing since 1994 in open-top chambers at Oak Ridge, Tennessee under the following treatments: 1) Ambient CO2 pressure and air temperature (control); 2) CO2 pressure approximately 30 Pa above ambient; 3) Air temperatures 3 C above ambient; 4) Elevated CO2 and air temperature. Spectral reflectance, transmittance, and absorptance in the visible spectrum (400-720 nm) did not change significantly (rho = 0.05) in response to any treatment compared with control values. Although reflectance, transmittance, and absorptance at 700 nm correlated strongly with leaf chlorophyll content, chlorophyll content was not altered significantly by the treatments. The lack of treatment effects on pigmentation explained the non-significant change in optical properties in the visible spectrum. Optical properties in the near-infrared (721-850 nm) were similarly unresponsive to treatment with the exception of an increased absorptance in leaves that developed under elevated air temperature alone. This response could not be explained by the data, but might have resulted from effects of air temperature on leaf internal structure. Results indicated no significant potential for detecting leaf optical responses to elevated CO2 or temperature by the remote sensing of reflected radiation in the 400-850 nm spectrum.

Early repolarization, localization of J point elevation on ECG and arrhythmias.

PubMed

Matoshvili, Z; Petriashvili, Sh; Archvadze, A; Azaladze, I

2015-04-01

Final aim of this observational study was to determine correlation between localization of J point elevation and number of premature ventricular beats. The 52 patients (19-68 years old; 31 men and 21 women) were divided in two groups based on localization of J point elevation. First Group - 9 patients (5 men and 4 women) with J-point elevation ≥1 mm in ≥2 contiguous inferior and/or lateral leads on a standard 12-lead ECG reading, Second Group - other 43 (26 men and 17 women) patients with another localization of J point elevation. Total summarized number of premature ventricular contractions for each group was compared and analyzed. The results of the study shows that the number of premature ventricular beats in first group was 61% higher. Thus, in our opinion J-point elevation ≥1 mm in ≥2 contiguous inferior and/or lateral leads, is more arrhythmogenic. Data shows that this difference is statistically significant.

Geographic divergence in upper thermal limits across insect life stages: does behavior matter?

PubMed

MacLean, Heidi J; Higgins, Jessica K; Buckley, Lauren B; Kingsolver, Joel G

2016-05-01

Insects with complex life cycles vary in size, mobility, and thermal ecology across life stages. We examine how differences in the capacity for thermoregulatory behavior influence geographic differences in physiological heat tolerance among egg and adult Colias butterflies. Colias adults exhibit differences in morphology (wing melanin and thoracic setal length) along spatial gradients, whereas eggs are morphologically indistinguishable. Here we compare Colias eriphyle eggs and adults from two elevations and Colias meadii from a high elevation. Hatching success and egg development time of C. eriphyle eggs did not differ significantly with the elevation of origin. Egg survival declined in response to heat-shock temperatures above 38-40 °C and egg development time was shortest at intermediate heat-shock temperatures of 33-38 °C. Laboratory experiments with adults showed survival in response to heat shock was significantly greater for Colias from higher than from lower elevation sites. Common-garden experiments at the low-elevation field site showed that C. meadii adults initiated heat-avoidance and over-heating behaviors significantly earlier in the day than C. eriphyle. Our study demonstrates the importance of examining thermal tolerances across life stages. Our findings are inconsistent with the hypothesis that thermoregulatory behavior inhibits the geographic divergence of physiological traits in mobile stages, and suggest that sessile stages may evolve similar heat tolerances in different environments due to microclimatic variability or evolutionary constraints.

Elevated levels of the mismatch repair protein PMS2 are associated with prostate cancer.

PubMed

Norris, Alixanna M; Woodruff, R D; D'Agostino, Ralph B; Clodfelter, Jill E; Scarpinato, Karin Drotschmann

2007-02-01

Defects in mismatch repair (MMR) proteins have been identified in various types of cancer. However, an association with prostate cancer has been controversial. Defective MMR results in genome instability with detrimental consequences that significantly contribute to tumorigenesis. This study determined alterations in key MMR protein levels in prostate cancer with the goal to identify prognostic markers. Prostatectomy samples were immunohistochemically stained and the relative presence or absence of key proteins MSH2, MLH1, and PMS2 determined. Cancer tissue of distinct grades was compared with the normal surrounding tissue. Microsatellite instability (MSI) in altered tissues was determined according to NCI guidelines. In contrast to reports that associate a lack of individual MMR proteins with tumorigenesis, a significant increase in PMS2 levels was identified in PIN lesions and prostate cancer tissue. This elevation in PMS2 was independent of changes in levels in its heterodimeric partner, MLH1. Prostate tumors with elevated levels of PMS2 were genetically unstable, which was corrected by MLH1 co-elevation. This is the first documentation of detrimental consequences associated with the increase in a MMR protein in human cancer. This study recognizes PMS2 elevation as a prognostic marker in pre-neoplastic and prostate cancer lesions. This result has significant implications for future diagnostic and treatment measures. (c) 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Randomized trial of a phone- and web-based weight loss program for women at elevated breast cancer risk: the HELP study.

PubMed

Cadmus-Bertram, Lisa; Nelson, Sandahl H; Hartman, Sheri; Patterson, Ruth E; Parker, Barbara A; Pierce, John P

2016-08-01

Excess weight and physical inactivity are modifiable risk factors for breast cancer. Behavioral intervention is particularly important among women with an elevated risk profile. This trial tested an intervention that trained women to use a self-monitoring website to increase activity and lose weight. Women with BMI ≥27.5 kg/m(2) at elevated breast cancer risk were randomized to the intervention (N = 71) or usual care (N = 34). The intervention group received telephone-based coaching and used web-based self-monitoring tools. At 6 months, significant weight loss was observed in the intervention group (4.7 % loss from starting weight; SD = 4.7 %) relative to usual care (0.4 % gain; SD = 3.0 %) (p < 0.0001). By 12 months, the intervention group had lost 3.7 % of weight (SD = 5.4 %), compared to 1.3 % (SD = 4.2) for usual care (p = 0.003). At 12 months, accelerometer-measured moderate-to-vigorous physical activity increased by 12 min/day (SD = 24) compared to no change in usual care (p = 0.04. In summary, this web- and phone-based approach produced modest but significant improvements in weight and physical activity for women at elevated breast cancer risk.

Multi-year longitudinal profiles of cortisol and corticosterone recovered from baleen of North Atlantic right whales (Eubalaena glacialis).

PubMed

Hunt, Kathleen E; Lysiak, Nadine S; Moore, Michael; Rolland, Rosalind M

2017-12-01

Research into stress physiology of mysticete whales has been hampered by difficulty in obtaining repeated physiological samples from individuals over time. We investigated whether multi-year longitudinal records of glucocorticoids can be reconstructed from serial sampling along full-length baleen plates (representing ∼10years of baleen growth), using baleen recovered from two female North Atlantic right whales (Eubalaena glacialis) of known reproductive history. Cortisol and corticosterone were quantified with immunoassay of subsamples taken every 4cm (representing ∼60d time intervals) along a full-length baleen plate from each female. In both whales, corticosterone was significantly elevated during known pregnancies (inferred from calf sightings and necropsy data) as compared to intercalving intervals; cortisol was significantly elevated during pregnancies in one female but not the other. Within intercalving intervals, corticosterone was significantly elevated during the first year (lactation year) and/or the second year (post-lactation year) as compared to later years of the intercalving interval, while cortisol showed more variable patterns. Cortisol occasionally showed brief high elevations ("spikes") not paralleled by corticosterone, suggesting that the two glucocorticoids might be differentially responsive to certain stressors. Generally, immunoreactive corticosterone was present in higher concentration in baleen than immunoreactive cortisol; corticosterone:cortisol ratio was usually >4 and was highly variable in both individuals. Further investigation of baleen cortisol and corticosterone profiles could prove fruitful for elucidating long-term, multi-year patterns in stress physiology of large whales, determined retrospectively from stranded or archived specimens. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Metformin effects on biochemical recurrence and metabolic signaling in the prostate.

PubMed

Winters, Brian; Plymate, Stephen; Zeliadt, Steven B; Holt, Sarah; Zhang, Xiaotun; Hu, Elaine; Lin, Daniel W; Morrissey, Colm; Wooldridge, Bryan; Gore, John L; Porter, Michael P; Wright, Jonathan L

2015-11-01

Metformin has received considerable attention as a potential anti-cancer agent. Animal and in-vitro prostate cancer (PCa) models have demonstrated decreased tumor growth with metformin, however the precise mechanisms are unknown. We examine the effects of metformin on PCa biochemical recurrence (BCR) in a large clinical database followed by evaluating metabolic signaling changes in a cohort of men undergoing prostate needle biopsy (PNB). Men treated for localized PCa were identified in a comprehensive clinical database between 2001 and 2010. Cox regression was performed to determine association with BCR relative to metformin use. We next identified a separate case-control cohort of men undergoing prostate needle biopsy (PNB) stratified by metformin use. Differences in mean IHC scores were compared with linear regression for phosphorylated IR, IGF-IR, AKT, and AMPK. One thousand seven hundred and thirty four men were evaluated for BCR with mean follow up of 41 months (range 1-121 months). "Ever" metformin use was not associated with BCR (HR 1.12, 0.77-1.65), however men reporting both pre/post-treatment metformin use had a 45% reduction in BCR (HR = 0.55 (0.31-0.96)). For the tissue-based study, 48 metformin users and 42 controls underwent PNB. Significantly greater staining in phosphorylated nuclear (p-IR, p-AKT) and cytoplasmic (p-IR, p-IGF-1R) insulin signaling proteins were seen in patients with PCa detected compared to those with negative PNB (P-values all <0.006). When stratified by metformin use, IGF-1R remained significantly elevated (P = 0.01) in men with PCa detected whereas p-AMPK (P = 0.05) was elevated only in those without PCa. Metformin use is associated with reduced BCR after treatment of localized PCa when considering pre-diagnostic and cumulative dosing. In men with cancer detected on PNB, insulin signaling markers were significantly elevated compared to negative PNB patients. The finding of IGF-1R elevation in positive PNBs versus p-AMPK elevation in negative PNBs suggests altered metabolic pathway activation precipitated by metformin use. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Comparison of wetland structural characteristics between created and natural salt marshes in southwest Louisiana, USA

USGS Publications Warehouse

Edwards, K.R.; Proffitt, C.E.

2003-01-01

The use of dredge material is a well-known technique for creating or restoring salt marshes that is expected to become more common along the Gulf of Mexico coast in the future. However, the effectiveness of this restoration method is still questioned. Wetland structural characteristics were compared between four created and three natural salt marshes in southwest Louisiana, USA. The created marshes, formed by the pumping of dredge material into formerly open water areas, represent a chronosequence, ranging in age from 3 to 19 years. Vegetation and soil structural factors were compared to determine whether the created marshes become more similar over time to the natural salt marshes. Vegetation surveys were conducted in 1997, 2000, and 2002 using the line-intercept technique. Site elevations were measured in 2000. Organic matter (OM) was measured in 1996 and 2002, while bulk density and soil particle-size distribution were determined in 2002 only. The natural marshes were dominated by Spartina alterniflora, as were the oldest created marshes; these marshes had the lowest mean site elevations ( 35 cm NGVD) and became dominated by high marsh (S. patens, Distichlis spicata) and shrub (Baccharis halimifolia, Iva frutescens) species. The higher elevation marsh seems to be following a different plant successional trajectory than the other marshes, indicating a relationship between marsh elevation and species composition. The soils in both the created and natural marshes contain high levels of clays (30-65 %), with sand comprising < 1 % of the soil distribution. OM was significantly greater and bulk density significantly lower in two of the natural marshes when compared to the created marshes. The oldest created marsh had significantly greater OM than the younger created marshes, but it may still take several decades before equivalency is reached with the natural marshes. Vegetation structural characteristics in the created marshes take only a few years to become similar to those in the natural marshes, just so long as the marshes are formed at a proper elevation. This agrees with other studies from North Carolina and Texas. However, it will take several decades for the soil characteristics to reach equivalency with the natural marshes, if they ever will.

Metformin Effects on Biochemical Recurrence and Metabolic Signaling in the Prostate

PubMed Central

Winters, Brian; Plymate, Stephen; Zeliadt, Steven B; Holt, Sarah; Zhang, Xiaotun; Hu, Elaine; Lin, Daniel W.; Morrissey, Colm; Wooldridge, Bryan; Gore, John L; Porter, Michael P; Wright, Jonathan L

2015-01-01

Background Metformin has received considerable attention as a potential anti-cancer agent. Animal and in-vitro prostate cancer (PCa) models have demonstrated decreased tumor growth with metformin, however the precise mechanisms are unknown. We examine the effects of metformin on PCa biochemical recurrence (BCR) in a large clinical database followed by evaluating metabolic signaling changes in a cohort of men undergoing prostate needle biopsy (PNB). Methods Men treated for localized PCa were identified in a comprehensive clinical database between 2001 and 2010. Cox regression was performed to determine association with BCR relative to metformin use. We next identified a separate case-control cohort of men undergoing prostate needle biopsy (PNB) stratified by metformin use. Differences in mean IHC scores were compared with linear regression for phosphorylated IR, IGF-IR, AKT, and AMPK. Results 1,734 men were evaluated for BCR with mean follow up of 41 months (range 1-121 months). ‘Ever’ metformin use was not associated with BCR (HR 1.12, 0.77-1.65), however men reporting both pre/post-treatment metformin use had a 45% reduction in BCR (HR=0.55 (0.31-0.96)). For the tissue-based study, 48 metformin users and 42 controls underwent PNB. Significantly greater staining in phosphorylated nuclear (p-IR, p-AKT) and cytoplasmic (p-IR, p-IGF-1R) insulin signaling proteins were seen in patients with PCa detected compared to those with negative PNB (p-values all < 0.006). When stratified by metformin use, IGF-1R remained significantly elevated (p=0.01) in men with PCa detected whereas p-AMPK (p=0.05) was elevated only in those without PCa. Conclusion Metformin use is associated with reduced BCR after treatment of localized PCa when considering pre-diagnostic and cumulative dosing. In men with cancer detected on PNB, insulin signaling markers were significantly elevated compared to negative PNB patients. The finding of IGF-1R elevation in positive PNBs versus p-AMPK elevation in negative PNBs suggests altered metabolic pathway activation precipitated by metformin use. PMID:26201966

Nowhere to Go but Up: Impacts of Climate Change on Demographics of a Short-Range Endemic (Crotalus willardi obscurus) in the Sky-Islands of Southwestern North America.

PubMed

Davis, Mark A; Douglas, Marlis R; Webb, Colleen T; Collyer, Michael L; Holycross, Andrew T; Painter, Charles W; Kamees, Larry K; Douglas, Michael E

2015-01-01

Biodiversity elements with narrow niches and restricted distributions (i.e., 'short range endemics,' SREs) are particularly vulnerable to climate change. The New Mexico Ridge-nosed Rattlesnake (Crotalus willardi obscurus, CWO), an SRE listed under the U.S. Endangered Species Act within three sky islands of southwestern North America, is constrained at low elevation by drought and at high elevation by wildfire. We combined long-term recapture and molecular data with demographic and niche modeling to gauge its climate-driven status, distribution, and projected longevity. The largest population (Animas) is numerically constricted (N = 151), with few breeding adults (Nb = 24) and an elevated inbreeding coefficient (ΔF = 0.77; 100 years). Mean home range (0.07 km2) is significantly smaller compared to other North American rattlesnakes, and movements are within, not among sky islands. Demographic values, when gauged against those displayed by other endangered/Red-Listed reptiles [e.g., Loggerhead Sea Turtle (Caretta caretta)], are either comparable or markedly lower. Survival rate differs significantly between genders (female

Nowhere to Go but Up: Impacts of Climate Change on Demographics of a Short-Range Endemic (Crotalus willardi obscurus) in the Sky-Islands of Southwestern North America

PubMed Central

Davis, Mark A.; Douglas, Marlis R.; Webb, Colleen T.; Collyer, Michael L.; Holycross, Andrew T.; Painter, Charles W.; Kamees, Larry K.; Douglas, Michael E.

2015-01-01

Biodiversity elements with narrow niches and restricted distributions (i.e., ‘short range endemics,’ SREs) are particularly vulnerable to climate change. The New Mexico Ridge-nosed Rattlesnake (Crotalus willardi obscurus, CWO), an SRE listed under the U.S. Endangered Species Act within three sky islands of southwestern North America, is constrained at low elevation by drought and at high elevation by wildfire. We combined long-term recapture and molecular data with demographic and niche modeling to gauge its climate-driven status, distribution, and projected longevity. The largest population (Animas) is numerically constricted (N = 151), with few breeding adults (Nb = 24) and an elevated inbreeding coefficient (ΔF = 0.77; 100 years). Mean home range (0.07km2) is significantly smaller compared to other North American rattlesnakes, and movements are within, not among sky islands. Demographic values, when gauged against those displayed by other endangered/Red-Listed reptiles [e.g., Loggerhead Sea Turtle ( Caretta caretta )], are either comparable or markedly lower. Survival rate differs significantly between genders (female

Dispersal limitation does not control high elevational distribution of alien plant species in the southern Sierra Nevada, California

USGS Publications Warehouse

Rundel, Philip W.; Keeley, Jon E.

2016-01-01

Patterns of elevational distribution of alien plant species in the southern Sierra Nevada of California were used to test the hypothesis that alien plant species invading high elevations around the world are typically climate generalists capable of growing across a wide elevational range. The Sierra Nevada has been heavily impacted for more than a century and a half, first by heavy grazing up into high elevation meadows, followed by major logging, and finally, by impacts associated with recreational use. The comparative elevational patterns of distribution and growth form were compared for native and alien plant species in the four families (Asteraceae, Brassicaceae, Fabaceae, and Poaceae) that contribute the majority of naturalized aliens in the study area. The distribution of realized climatic niche breadth, as measured by elevational range of occurrence, was virtually identical for alien and native species, with both groups showing a roughly Gaussian distribution peaking with species whose range covers a span of 1500–1999 m. In contrast to alien species, which only rarely occurred at higher elevations, native species showed a distribution of upper elevation limits peaking at 3000–3499 m, an elevation that corresponds to the zone of upper montane and subalpine forests. Consistent with a hypothesis of abiotic limitations, only a few alien species have been ecologically successful invaders at subalpine and alpine elevations above 2500 m. The low diversity of aliens able to become established in these habitats is unlikely due to dispersal limitations, given the long history of heavy grazing pressure at high elevations across this region. Instead, this low diversity is hypothesized to be a function of life history traits and multiple abiotic stresses that include extremes of cold air and soil temperature, heavy snowfall, short growing seasons, and low resource availability. These findings have significant implications for resource managers.

Biomechanical Changes in the Sclera of Monkey Eyes Exposed to Chronic IOP Elevations

PubMed Central

Girard, Michaël J. A.; Suh, J.-K. Francis; Bottlang, Michael; Burgoyne, Claude F.

2011-01-01

Purpose. To characterize scleral biomechanics in both eyes of eight monkeys in which chronic intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation was induced in one eye. Methods. Each posterior sclera was mounted on a pressurization apparatus, IOP was elevated from 5 to 45 mm Hg while the 3D displacements of the scleral surface were measured by speckle interferometry. Finite element (FE) models of each scleral shell were constructed that incorporated stretch-induced stiffening and multidirectionality of the collagen fibers. FE model predictions were then iteratively matched to experimental displacements to extract unique sets of scleral biomechanical properties. Results. For all eyes, the posterior sclera exhibited inhomogeneous, anisotropic, nonlinear biomechanical behavior. Biomechanical changes caused by chronic IOP elevation were complex and specific to each subject. Specifically: (1) Glaucomatous eyes in which the contralateral normal eyes displayed large modulus or thickness were less prone to biomechanical changes; (2) glaucomatous scleral modulus associated with an IOP of 10 mm Hg decreased (when compared with that of the contralateral normal) after minimal chronic IOP elevation; (3) glaucomatous scleral modulus associated with IOPs of 30 and 45 mm Hg increased (when compared with that of the contralateral normal) after moderate IOP elevation; and (4) FE-based estimates of collagen fiber orientation demonstrated no change in the glaucomatous eyes. Conclusions. Significant stiffening of the sclera follows exposure to moderate IOP elevations in most eyes. Scleral hypercompliance may precede stiffening or be a unique response to minimal chronic IOP elevation in some eyes. These biomechanical changes are likely to be the result of scleral extracellular matrix remodeling. PMID:21519033

A randomised controlled trial of the effect of a head-elevation pillow on intrathecal local anaesthetic spread in caesarean section.

PubMed

Elfil, H; Crowley, L; Segurado, R; Spring, A

2015-11-01

A head-elevation pillow places a patient in a ramped posture, which maximises the view of the larynx during laryngoscopy, particularly in obese parturients. In our institution an elevation pillow is used pre-emptively for neuraxial anaesthesia. We hypothesised that head-elevation may impair cephalad spread of local anaesthetic before caesarean section resulting in a lower block or longer time to achieve a T6 level. We aimed to investigate the effect of head-elevation on spread of intrathecal local anaesthetics during anaesthesia for caesarean section. One-hundred parturients presenting for caesarean section under combined spinal-epidural anaesthesia were randomised to either the standard supine position with lateral displacement or in the supine position with lateral displacement on an head-elevation pillow. Each patient received intrathecal hyperbaric bupivacaine 11 mg, morphine 100 μg and fentanyl 15 μg. Patients were assessed for adequacy of sensory block (T6 or higher) at 10 min. Sensory block to T6 was achieved within 10 min in 65.9% of parturients in the Elevation Pillow Group compared to 95.7% in the Control Group (P<0.05). Compared to the Control Group, patients in the Elevation Pillow Group had greater requirements for epidural supplementation (43.5% vs 2.1%, P<0.001) or conversion to general anaesthesia (9.3% vs 0%, P<0.04). Use of a ramped position with an head-elevation pillow following injection of the intrathecal component of a combined spinal-epidural anaesthetic for scheduled caesarean section was associated with a significantly lower block height at 10min. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Deposition of Mercury in Forests along a Montane Elevation Gradient.

PubMed

Blackwell, Bradley D; Driscoll, Charles T

2015-05-05

Atmospheric mercury (Hg) deposition varies along elevation gradients and is influenced by both orographic and biological factors. We quantified total Hg deposition over a 2 year period at 24 forest sites at Whiteface Mountain, NY, USA, that ranged from 450 to 1450 m above sea level and covered three distinct forest types: deciduous/hardwood forest (14.1 μg/m2-yr), spruce/fir forest (33.8 μg/m2-yr), and stunted growth alpine/fir forest (44.0 μg/m2-yr). Atmospheric Hg deposition increased with elevation, with the dominant deposition pathways shifting from litterfall in low-elevation hardwoods to throughfall in midelevation spruce/fir to cloudwater in high-elevation alpine forest. Soil Hg concentrations (ranging from 69 to 416 ng/g for the Oi/Oe and 72 to 598 ng/g for the Oa horizons) were correlated with total Hg deposition, but the weakness of the correlations suggests that additional factors such as climate and tree species also contribute to soil Hg accumulation. Meteorological conditions influenced Hg deposition pathways, as cloudwater Hg diminished in 2010 (dry conditions) compared to 2009 (wet conditions). However, the dry conditions in 2010 led to increased Hg dry deposition and subsequent significant increases in throughfall Hg fluxes compared to 2009. These findings suggest that elevation, forest characteristics, and meteorological conditions are all important drivers of atmospheric Hg deposition to montane forests.

Temporal patterns of rat behaviour in the central platform of the elevated plus maze. Comparative analysis between male subjects of strains with different basal levels of emotionality.

PubMed

Casarrubea, M; Faulisi, F; Caternicchia, F; Santangelo, A; Di Giovanni, G; Benigno, A; Magnusson, M S; Crescimanno, G

2016-08-01

We have analyzed the temporal patterns of behaviour of male rats of the Wistar and DA/Han strains on the central platform of the elevated plus maze. The ethogram encompassed 10 behavioural elements. Durations, frequencies and latencies showed quantitative differences as to walking and sniffing activities. Wistar rats displayed significantly lower latency and significantly higher durations and frequencies of walking activities. DA/Han rats showed a significant increase of sniffing duration. In addition, DA/Han rats showed a significantly higher amount of time spent in the central platform. Multivariate T-pattern analysis revealed differences in the temporal organization of behaviour of the two rat strains. DA/Han rats showed (a) higher behavioural complexity and variability and (b) a significantly higher mean number of T-patterns than Wistar rats. Taken together, T-pattern analysis of behaviour in the centre of the elevated plus maze can noticeably improve the detection of subtle features of anxiety related behaviour. We suggest that T-pattern analysis could be used as sensitive tool to test the action of anxiolytic and anxiogenic manipulations. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Antihypertensive and cardioprotective effects of pumpkin seed oil.

PubMed

El-Mosallamy, Aliaa E M K; Sleem, Amany A; Abdel-Salam, Omar M E; Shaffie, Nermeen; Kenawy, Sanaa A

2012-02-01

Pumpkin seed oil is a natural product commonly used in folk medicine for treatment of prostatic hypertrophy. In the present study, the effects of treatment with pumpkin seed oil on hypertension induced by the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor N(ω)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (L-NAME) (50 mg /kg/day) in rats were studied and compared with those of the calcium channel blocker amlodipine. Pumpkin seed oil (40 or 100 mg/kg), amlodipine (0.9 mg/kg), or vehicle (control) was given once daily orally for 6 weeks. Arterial blood pressure (BP), heart rate, electrocardiogram (ECG) changes, levels of serum nitric oxide (NO) (the concentrations of nitrite/nitrate), plasma malondialdehyde (MDA), blood glutathione, and erythrocytic superoxide dismutase activity were measured. Histopathological examination of heart and aorta was conducted as well. L-NAME administration resulted in a significant increase in BP starting from the second week. Pumpkin seed oil or amlodipine treatment significantly reduced the elevation in BP by L-NAME and normalized the L-NAME-induced ECG changes-namely, prolongation of the RR interval, increased P wave duration, and ST elevation. Both treatments significantly decreased the elevated levels of MDA and reversed the decreased levels of NO metabolites to near normal values compared with the L-NAME-treated group. Amlodipine also significantly increased blood glutathione content compared with normal (but not L-NAME-treated) rats. Pumpkin seed oil as well as amlodipine treatment protected against pathological alterations in heart and aorta induced by L-NAME. In conclusion, this study has shown that pumpkin seed oil exhibits an antihypertensive and cardioprotective effects through a mechanism that may involve generation of NO.

Effect of consuming a purple-fleshed sweet potato beverage on health-related biomarkers and safety parameters in Caucasian subjects with elevated levels of blood pressure and liver function biomarkers: a 4-week, open-label, non-comparative trial

PubMed Central

OKI, Tomoyuki; KANO, Mitsuyoshi; WATANABE, Osamu; GOTO, Kazuhisa; BOELSMA, Esther; ISHIKAWA, Fumiyasu; SUDA, Ikuo

2016-01-01

An open-label study with one treatment arm was conducted to investigate changes in health-related biomarkers (blood pressure and liver enzyme activity) and the safety of 4 weeks of consuming a purple-fleshed sweet potato beverage in Caucasian subjects. Twenty healthy adults, 18–70 years of age, with a body mass index >25 kg/m2, elevated blood pressure and elevated levels of liver function biomarkers consumed two cartons of purple-fleshed sweet potato beverage (125 ml, including 117 mg anthocyanin per carton) daily for 4 weeks. Hematology, serum clinical profile, dipstick urinalysis and blood pressure were determined before consumption, at 2 and 4 weeks of consumption and after a 2-week washout period. A trend was found toward lowering systolic blood pressure during the treatment period (p=0.0590). No significant changes were found in diastolic blood pressure throughout the study period. Systolic blood pressure was significantly lower after 4 weeks of consumption compared with before consumption (p=0.0125) and was significantly higher after the 2-week washout period compared with after consumption (p=0.0496). The serum alanine aminotransferase level significantly increased over time, but aspartate aminotransferase and γ-glutamyltransferase levels stayed within the normal range of reference values. Safety parameters of the blood and urine showed no clinically relevant changes. The consumption of a purple-fleshed sweet potato beverage for 4 weeks resulted in no clinically relevant changes in safety parameters of the blood and urine and showed a trend toward lowering systolic blood pressure. PMID:27508114

Altered sphingoid base profiles in type 1 compared to type 2 diabetes.

PubMed

Wei, Nancy; Pan, Jessica; Pop-Busui, Rodica; Othman, Alaa; Alecu, Irina; Hornemann, Thorsten; Eichler, Florian S

2014-10-11

Sphingolipids are increasingly recognized to play a role in insulin resistance and diabetes. Recently we reported significant elevations of 1-deoxysphingolipids (1-deoxySL) - an atypical class of sphingolipids in patients with metabolic syndrome (MetS) and diabetes type 2 (T2DM). It is unknown whether 1-deoxySL in patients with diabetes type 1 (T1DM) are similarly elevated. We analyzed the long chain base profile by LC-MS after hydrolyzing the N-acyl and O-linked headgroups in plasma from individuals with T1DM (N = 27), T2DM (N = 30) and healthy controls (N = 23). 1-deoxySLs were significantly higher in the groups with T2DM but not different between T1DM and controls. In contrast to patients with T2DM, 1-deoxSL levels are not elevated in T1DM. Our study indicates that the 1-deoxySL formation is not per-se caused by hyperglycemia but rather specifically associated with metabolic changes in T2DM, such as elevated triglyceride levels.

Serum pro-gastrin-releasing peptide (31-98) in benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostatic carcinoma.

PubMed

Nagakawa, Osamu; Furuya, Yuzo; Fujiuchi, Yasuyoshi; Fuse, Hideki

2002-09-01

To clarify whether serum levels of pro-gastrin-releasing peptide (ProGRP) (31-98) could be a useful marker in patients with prostatic carcinoma. GRP is produced and secreted by prostatic neuroendocrine cells. Serum levels of ProGRP(31-98) were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in 20 patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia and 107 patients with prostatic carcinoma. The mean serum levels of ProGRP(31-98) in patients with distant metastasis and hormone-resistant prostate cancer were significantly elevated compared with those in patients with organ-confined disease. Significantly elevated levels of ProGRP(31-98) were detected in 9 patients with prostatic carcinoma before any treatment. During hormone-resistant prostate cancer progression, ProGRP(31-98) levels were elevated in 9 patients (23%). Of the 9 patients with Stage D3 and elevated serum ProGRP, 4 had a normal serum prostate-specific antigen level. ProGRP may be a potential tumor marker for prostate cancer. Additional studies in large groups of patients are needed to define the clinical value of ProGRP.

Alien dominance of the parasitoid wasp community along an elevation gradient on Hawai'i Island

USGS Publications Warehouse

Peck, R.W.; Banko, P.C.; Schwarzfeld, M.; Euaparadorn, M.; Brinck, K.W.

2008-01-01

Through intentional and accidental introduction, more than 100 species of alien Ichneumonidae and Braconidae (Hymenoptera) have become established in the Hawaiian Islands. The extent to which these parasitoid wasps have penetrated native wet forests was investigated over a 1,765 m elevation gradient on windward Hawai'i Island. For >1 year, malaise traps were used to continuously monitor parasitoid abundance and species richness in nine sites over three elevations. A total of 18,996 individuals from 16 subfamilies were collected. Overall, the fauna was dominated by aliens, with 44 of 58 species foreign to the Hawaiian Islands. Ichneumonidae was dominant over Braconidae in terms of both diversity and abundance, comprising 67.5% of individuals and 69.0% of species collected. Parasitoid abundance and species richness varied significantly with elevation: abundance was greater at mid and high elevations compared to low elevation while species richness increased with increasing elevation, with all three elevations differing significantly from each other. Nine species purposely introduced to control pest insects were found, but one braconid, Meteorus laphygmae, comprised 98.0% of this assemblage, or 28.3% of the entire fauna. Endemic species, primarily within the genera Spolas and Enicospilus, were collected almost exclusively at mid- and high-elevation sites, where they made up 22.1% and 36.0% of the total catch, respectively. Overall, 75.9% of species and 96.0% of individuals are inferred to parasitize Lepidoptera larvae and pupae. Our results support previous data indicating that alien parasitoids have deeply penetrated native forest habitats and may have substantial impacts on Hawaiian ecosystems. ?? 2008 Springer Science+Business Media B.V.

Heart rate at discharge and long-term prognosis following percutaneous coronary intervention in stable and acute coronary syndromes--results from the BASKET PROVE trial.

PubMed

Jensen, Magnus Thorsten; Kaiser, Christoph; Sandsten, Karl Erik; Alber, Hannes; Wanitschek, Maria; Iversen, Allan; Jensen, Jan Skov; Pedersen, Sune; Soerensen, Rikke; Rickli, Hans; Zurek, Marzena; Fahrni, Gregor; Bertel, Osmund; De Servi, Stefano; Erne, Paul; Pfisterer, Matthias; Galatius, Søren

2013-10-09

Elevated heart rate (HR) is associated with mortality in a number of heart diseases. We examined the long-term prognostic significance of HR at discharge in a contemporary population of patients with stable angina (SAP), non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndromes (NSTE-ACS), and ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) revascularized with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Patients from the BASKET-PROVE trial, an 11-center randomized all-comers trial comparing bare-metal and drug-eluting stenting in large coronary vessels, were included. Discharge HR was determined from a resting ECG. Long-term outcomes (7 days to 2 years) were evaluated for all-cause mortality and cardiovascular death and non-fatal myocardial infarction. A total of 2029 patients with sinus rhythm were included, 722 (35.6%) SAP, 647 (31.9%) NSTE-ACS, and 660 (32.5%) STEMI. Elevated discharge HR was associated significantly with all-cause mortality: when compared to a reference of <60 beats per minute (bpm), the adjusted hazard ratios were (95% CI) 4.5 (1.5-13.5, p=0.006) for 60-69 bpm, 3.8 (1.2-11.9, p=0.022) for 70-79 bpm, 4.3 (1.2-15.6, p=0.025) for 80-89 bpm, and 16.9 (5.2-55.0, p<0.001) for >90 bpm. For cardiovascular death/myocardial infarction, a discharge HR >90 bpm was associated with a hazard ratio of 6.2 (2.5-15.5, p<0.001) compared to a HR <60 bpm. No interaction was found for disease presentation, diabetes or betablocker use. In patients revascularized with PCI for stable angina or acute coronary syndromes an elevated discharge HR was independently associated with poor prognosis. Conversely, a HR <60 bpm at discharge was associated with a good long-term prognosis irrespective of indication for PCI. © 2013.

The neuroprotective effect of treatment with curcumin in acute spinal cord injury: laboratory investigation.

PubMed

Kim, Kyoung-Tae; Kim, Myoung-Jin; Cho, Dae-Chul; Park, Seong-Hyun; Hwang, Jeong-Hyun; Sung, Joo-Kyung; Cho, Hee-Jung; Jeon, Younghoon

2014-01-01

The purpose of this study was investigating the effects of curcumin on the histological changes and functional recovery following spinal cord injury (SCI) in a rat model. Following either sham operation or SCI, 36 male Sprague-Dawley rats were distributed into three groups: sham group, curcumin-treated group, and vehicle-injected group. Locomotor function was assessed according to the Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan (BBB) scale in rats who had received daily intraperitoneal injections of 200 mg/kg curcumin or an equivalent volume of vehicle for 7 days following SCI. The injured spinal cord was then examined histologically, including quantification of cavitation. BBB scores were significantly higher in rats receiving curcumin than receiving vehicle (P < 0.05). The cavity volume was significantly reduced in the curcumin group as compared to the control group (P = 0.039). Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity was significantly elevated in the curcumin group as compared to the vehicle group but was not significantly different from the sham group (P < 0.05, P > 0.05, respectively) at one and two weeks after SCI. Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were significantly elevated in the vehicle group as compared to the sham group (P < 0.05 at 1 and 2 weeks). MDA activity was significantly reduced in the curcumin group at 2 weeks after SCI when compared to the vehicle group (P = 0.004). The numbers of macrophage were significantly decreased in the curcumin group (P = 0.001). This study demonstrated that curcumin enhances early functional recovery after SCI by diminishing cavitation volume, anti-inflammatory reactions, and antioxidant activity.

Effect of Elevated Reperfusion Pressure on "No Reflow" Area and Infarct Size in a Porcine Model of Ischemia-Reperfusion.

PubMed

Pantsios, Chris; Kapelios, Chris; Vakrou, Styliani; Diakos, Nikolaos; Pozios, Iraklis; Kontogiannis, Chris; Nanas, John; Malliaras, Konstantinos

2016-07-01

The "no reflow" phenomenon (microvascular obstruction despite restoration of epicardial blood flow) develops postreperfusion in acute myocardial infarction and is associated with poor prognosis. We hypothesized that increased reperfusion pressure may attenuate the no reflow phenomenon, as it could provide adequate flow to overcome the high resistance of the microvasculature within the no reflow zone. Thus, we investigated the effect of modestly elevated blood pressure during reperfusion on the extent of no reflow area and infarct size in a porcine model of ischemia-reperfusion. Eighteen farm pigs underwent acute myocardial infarction by occlusion of the anterior descending coronary artery for 1 hour, followed by 2 hours of reperfusion. Just prior to reperfusion, animals were randomized into 2 groups: in group 1 (control group, n = 9), no intervention was performed. In group 2 (n = 9), aortic pressure was increased by ∼20% (compared to ischemia) by partial clamping of the ascending aorta during reperfusion. Following 2 hours of reperfusion, animals were euthanized to measure area at risk, infarct size, and area of no reflow. Partial clamping of the ascending aorta resulted in modest elevation of blood pressure during reperfusion. The area at risk did not differ between the 2 groups. The no reflow area was significantly increased in group 2 compared to control animals (50% ± 13% vs 37% ± 9% of the area at risk; P = .04). The infarcted area was significantly increased in group 2 compared to control animals (75% ± 17% vs 52% ± 23% of the area at risk; P = .03). Significant positive correlations were observed between systolic aortic pressure and no reflow area, between systolic aortic pressure and infarcted area and between infarcted area and no reflow area during reperfusion. Modestly elevated blood pressure during reperfusion is associated with an increase in no reflow area and in infarct size in a clinically relevant porcine model of ischemia-reperfusion. © The Author(s) 2015.

Fine-scale population genetic structure of a wildlife disease vector: The southern house mosquito on the island of Hawaii

USGS Publications Warehouse

Keyghobadi, N.; LaPointe, D.; Fleischer, R.C.; Fonseca, D.M.

2006-01-01

The southern house mosquito, Culex quinquefasciatus, is a widespread tropical and subtropical disease vector. In the Hawaiian Islands, where it was introduced accidentally almost two centuries ago, it is considered the primary vector of avian malaria and pox. Avian malaria in particular has contributed to the extinction and endangerment of Hawaii's native avifauna, and has altered the altitudinal distribution of native bird populations. We examined the population genetic structure of Cx. quinquefasciatus on the island of Hawaii at a smaller spatial scale than has previously been attempted, with particular emphasis on the effects of elevation on population genetic structure. We found significant genetic differentiation among populations and patterns of isolation by distance within the island. Elevation per se did not have a limiting effect on gene flow; however, there was significantly lower genetic diversity among populations at mid elevations compared to those at low elevations. A recent sample taken from just above the predicted upper altitudinal distribution of Cx. quinquefasciatus on the island of Hawaii was confirmed as being a temporary summer population and appeared to consist of individuals from more than one source population. Our results indicate effects of elevation gradients on genetic structure that are consistent with known effects of elevation on population dynamics of this disease vector. ?? 2006 The Authors.

Elevation of Morning Blood Pressure in Sodium Resistant Subjects by High Sodium Diet

PubMed Central

Lim, Chi-Yeon; Shin, Sung-Joon; Oh, Sang-Woo; Park, Yong-Soon; Kim, Jong-Wook; Park, Hye-Kyoung; Kim, Cho-il; Park, Cheol-Young; Kim, Sun-Woong

2013-01-01

The present study evaluated the response of blood pressure (BP) by dietary sodium in sodium resistant (SR) subjects. One hundred one subjects (mean age, 46.0 yr; 31 hypertensives) were admitted and given low sodium-dietary approaches to stop hypertension (DASH) diet (LSD, 100 mM NaCl/day) for 7 days and high sodium-DASH diet (HSD, 300 mM NaCl/day) for the following 7 days. On the last day of each diet, 24 hr ambulatory BP was measured. Morning systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBP) were elevated after HSD in all subjects (P < 0.01), but daytime SBP and DBP were not changed (P > 0.05). In hypertensive subjects, morning DBP elevation was greater than daytime DBP elevation (P = 0.036), although both DBPs were significantly elevated after HSD. The augmented elevation of morning DBP in hypertensive subjects was contributed by the absolute elevation of morning DBP (P = 0.032) and relative elevation to daytime DBP (P = 0.005) in sodium resistant (SR) subjects, but not by sodium sensitive subjects. Although there was no absolute elevation, SR subjects with normotension showed a relative elevation of morning SBP compared to daytime SBP change after HSD (P = 0.009). The present study demonstrates an absolute and relative elevation of morning BP in SR subjects by HSD. PMID:23580363

Greek rheumatoid arthritis patients have elevated levels of antibodies against antigens from Proteus mirabilis.

PubMed

Christopoulos, Georgios; Christopoulou, V; Routsias, J G; Babionitakis, A; Antoniadis, C; Vaiopoulos, G

2017-03-01

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) from different ethnic groups present elevated levels of antibodies against Proteus mirabilis. This finding implicates P. mirabilis in the development of RA. The aim of this study was to investigate the importance of P. mirabilis in the etiopathogenesis of RA in Greek RA patients. In this study, 63 patients with RA and 38 healthy controls were included. Class-specific antibodies IgM, IgG, and IgA against three human cross-reactive and non-cross-reactive synthetic peptides from P. mirabilis-hemolysin (HpmB), urease C (UreC), and urease F (UreF)-were performed in all subjects, using the ELISA method. RA patients had elevated levels of IgM, IgG, and IgA antibodies against HpmB and UreC Proteus peptide which are significantly different compared to healthy controls: p = 0.005, p < 0.001, and p = 0.003 and p = 0.007, p = 0.002, and p < 0.001, correspondingly. Also, elevated levels of IgM, IgG, and IgA antibodies against the UreF Proteus peptide-which are non-cross-reactive with human tissue antigens-were observed and their significant difference compared to healthy controls (p = 0.007, p < 0.001, p < 0.001). Anti-peptide antibodies in RA patients showed a significant correlation with rheumatoid factors (Rf), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and C-reactive protein (CRP), especially when patients were divided into subgroups according to the receiving treatment. Greek RA patients present elevated levels of antibodies against P. mirabilis antigenic epitopes, such as in North European populations, albeit Greek RA patients presenting the cross-reaction antigen in a low percentage. These results indicate that P. mirabilis through the molecular mimicry mechanism leads to inflammation and damage of the joints in RA.

Virgin Coconut Oil Prevents Blood Pressure Elevation and Improves Endothelial Functions in Rats Fed with Repeatedly Heated Palm Oil

PubMed Central

Nurul-Iman, Badlishah Sham; Kamisah, Yusof; Jaarin, Kamsiah; Qodriyah, Hj Mohd Saad

2013-01-01

This study was performed to explore the effects of virgin coconut oil (VCO) in male rats that were fed with repeatedly heated palm oil on blood pressure, plasma nitric oxide level, and vascular reactivity. Thirty-two male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups: (i) control (basal diet), (ii) VCO (1.42 mL/kg, oral), (iii) five-times-heated palm oil (15%) (5HPO), and (iv) five-times-heated palm oil (15%) and VCO (1.42 mL/kg, oral) (5HPO + VCO). Blood pressure was significantly increased in the group that was given the 5HPO diet compared to the control group. Blood pressure in the 5HPO + VCO group was significantly lower than the 5HPO group. Plasma nitric oxide (NO) level in the 5HPO group was significantly lower compared to the control group, whereas in the 5HPO + VCO group, the plasma NO level was significantly higher compared to the 5HPO group. Aortic rings from the 5HPO group exhibited attenuated relaxation in response to acetylcholine and sodium nitroprusside as well as increased vasoconstriction to phenylephrine compared to the control group. Aortic rings from the 5HPO + VCO group showed only attenuated vasoconstriction to phenylephrine compared to the 5HPO group. In conclusion, VCO prevents blood pressure elevation and improves endothelial functions in rats fed with repeatedly heated palm oil. PMID:23861707

Virgin coconut oil prevents blood pressure elevation and improves endothelial functions in rats fed with repeatedly heated palm oil.

PubMed

Nurul-Iman, Badlishah Sham; Kamisah, Yusof; Jaarin, Kamsiah; Qodriyah, Hj Mohd Saad

2013-01-01

This study was performed to explore the effects of virgin coconut oil (VCO) in male rats that were fed with repeatedly heated palm oil on blood pressure, plasma nitric oxide level, and vascular reactivity. Thirty-two male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups: (i) control (basal diet), (ii) VCO (1.42 mL/kg, oral), (iii) five-times-heated palm oil (15%) (5HPO), and (iv) five-times-heated palm oil (15%) and VCO (1.42 mL/kg, oral) (5HPO + VCO). Blood pressure was significantly increased in the group that was given the 5HPO diet compared to the control group. Blood pressure in the 5HPO + VCO group was significantly lower than the 5HPO group. Plasma nitric oxide (NO) level in the 5HPO group was significantly lower compared to the control group, whereas in the 5HPO + VCO group, the plasma NO level was significantly higher compared to the 5HPO group. Aortic rings from the 5HPO group exhibited attenuated relaxation in response to acetylcholine and sodium nitroprusside as well as increased vasoconstriction to phenylephrine compared to the control group. Aortic rings from the 5HPO + VCO group showed only attenuated vasoconstriction to phenylephrine compared to the 5HPO group. In conclusion, VCO prevents blood pressure elevation and improves endothelial functions in rats fed with repeatedly heated palm oil.

Transgenic soya bean seeds accumulating β-carotene exhibit the collateral enhancements of oleate and protein content traits.

PubMed

Schmidt, Monica A; Parrott, Wayne A; Hildebrand, David F; Berg, R Howard; Cooksey, Amanda; Pendarvis, Ken; He, Yonghua; McCarthy, Fiona; Herman, Eliot M

2015-05-01

Transgenic soya bean (Glycine max) plants overexpressing a seed-specific bacterial phytoene synthase gene from Pantoea ananatis modified to target to plastids accumulated 845 μg β carotene g(-1) dry seed weight with a desirable 12:1 ratio of β to α. The β carotene accumulating seeds exhibited a shift in oil composition increasing oleic acid with a concomitant decrease in linoleic acid and an increase in seed protein content by at least 4% (w/w). Elevated β-carotene accumulating soya bean cotyledons contain 40% the amount of abscisic acid compared to nontransgenic cotyledons. Proteomic and nontargeted metabolomic analysis of the mid-maturation β-carotene cotyledons compared to the nontransgenic did not reveal any significant differences that would account for the altered phenotypes of both elevated oleate and protein content. Transcriptomic analysis, confirmed by RT-PCR, revealed a number of significant differences in ABA-responsive transcripton factor gene expression in the crtB transgenics compared to nontransgenic cotyledons of the same maturation stage. The altered seed composition traits seem to be attributed to altered ABA hormone levels varying transcription factor expression. The elevated β-carotene, oleic acid and protein traits in the β-carotene soya beans confer a substantial additive nutritional quality to soya beans. © 2014 Society for Experimental Biology, Association of Applied Biologists and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Unique sex- and age-dependent effects in protective pathways in acute kidney injury.

PubMed

Boddu, Ravindra; Fan, Chunlan; Rangarajan, Sunil; Sunil, Bhuvana; Bolisetty, Subhashini; Curtis, Lisa M

2017-09-01

Sex and age influence susceptibility to acute kidney injury (AKI), with young females exhibiting lowest incidence. In these studies, we investigated mechanisms which may underlie the sex/age-based dissimilarities. Cisplatin (Cp)-induced AKI resulted in morphological evidence of injury in all groups. A minimal rise in plasma creatinine (PCr) was seen in Young Females, whereas in Aged Females, PCr rose precipitously. Relative to Young Males, Aged Males showed significantly, but temporally, comparably elevated PCr. Notably, Aged Females showed significantly greater mortality, whereas Young Females exhibited none. Tissue KIM-1 and plasma NGAL were significantly lower in Young Females than all others. IGFBP7 levels were modestly increased in both Young groups. IGFBP7 levels in Aged Females were significantly elevated at baseline relative to Aged Males, and increased linearly through day 3 , when these levels were comparable in both Aged groups. Plasma cytokine levels similarly showed a pattern of protective effects preferentially in Young Females. Expression of the drug transporter MATE2 did not explain the sex/age distinctions. Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) levels (~28-kDa species) showed elevation at day 1 in all groups with highest levels seen in Young Males. Exclusively in Young Females, these levels returned to baseline on day 3 , suggestive of a more efficient recovery. In aggregate, we demonstrate, for the first time, a distinctive pattern of response to AKI in Young Females relative to males which appears to be significantly altered in aging. These distinctions may offer novel targets to exploit therapeutically in both females and males in the treatment of AKI.

Testosterone is protective against impaired glucose metabolism in male intrauterine growth-restricted offspring

PubMed Central

Dasinger, John Henry; Fahling, Joel M.; Backstrom, Miles A.; Alexander, Barbara T.

2017-01-01

Placental insufficiency alters the intrauterine environment leading to increased risk for chronic disease including impaired glucose metabolism in low birth weight infants. Using a rat model of low birth weight, we previously reported that placental insufficiency induces a significant increase in circulating testosterone in male intrauterine growth-restricted offspring (mIUGR) in early adulthood that is lost by 12 months of age. Numerous studies indicate testosterone has a positive effect on glucose metabolism in men. Female growth-restricted littermates exhibit glucose intolerance at 6 months of age. Thus, the aim of this paper was to determine whether mIUGR develop impaired glucose metabolism, and whether a decrease in elevated testosterone levels plays a role in its onset. Male growth-restricted offspring were studied at 6 and 12 months of age. No impairment in glucose tolerance was observed at 6 months of age when mIUGR exhibited a 2-fold higher testosterone level compared to age-matched control. Fasting blood glucose was significantly higher and glucose tolerance was impaired with a significant decrease in circulating testosterone in mIUGR at 12 compared with 6 months of age. Castration did not additionally impair fasting blood glucose or glucose tolerance in mIUGR at 12 months of age, but fasting blood glucose was significantly elevated in castrated controls. Restoration of elevated testosterone levels significantly reduced fasting blood glucose and improved glucose tolerance in mIUGR. Thus, our findings suggest that the endogenous increase in circulating testosterone in mIUGR is protective against impaired glucose homeostasis. PMID:29145418

Rotating Scheimpflug Imaging Indices in Different Grades of Keratoconus

PubMed Central

2016-01-01

Purpose. To evaluate accuracy of various Keratoconus (KC) screening indices, in relation to Topographic Keratoconus (TKC) grading. Setting. Al Watany Eye Hospital, Cairo, Egypt. Methods. Data of 103 normal (group 1) and 73 KC eyes (group 2), imaged by Pentacam (branded as Allegro Oculyzer), were analysed. Group 2 was divided into 2a: 14 eyes (TKC = 1, early KC), 2b: 25 eyes (TKC = 1 to 2 or 2, moderate KC), and 2c: 34 eyes (TKC = 2 to 3 up to 4, severe KC). Participants were followed up for six years to confirm diagnosis. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) was calculated for evaluated curvature, elevation, and pachymetry indices with various reference shapes at different diameters. Results. When comparing normal to KC eyes, ten indices had significantly higher AUROC. Only five of them had significantly higher AUROC in early KC compared to normal corneas: Pachymetry Progression Index- (PPI-) Maximum (Max), Ambrósio's Relational Thickness- (ART-) Max, PPI-Max minus PPI-Minimum (Min), central corneal thickness (CCT), and diagonal decentration of thinnest point from the apex (AUROC = 0.690, 0.690, 0.687, 0.683, and 0.674, resp.). Conclusion. Generally, ten pachymetry and elevation-based indices had significantly higher AUROC. Five indices had statistically significant high AUROC when comparing early KC to normal corneas. PMID:27579178

Incidence of Intraocular Pressure Elevation following Intravitreal Ranibizumab (Lucentis) for Age-related Macular Degeneration.

PubMed

Reis, Gustavo Msm; Grigg, John; Chua, Brian; Lee, Anne; Lim, Ridia; Higgins, Ralph; Martins, Alessandra; Goldberg, Ivan; Clement, Colin I

2017-01-01

The aim of this article is to evaluate the rate of patients developing sustained elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) after ranibizumab (Lucentis) intravitreal (IVT) injections. This is a retrospective study. Charts of 192 consecutive patients receiving Lucentis for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) were retrospectively reviewed. We enrolled patients with at least two IOP measurements between injections. Elevated IOP was defined as >21 mm Hg with an increase of at least 20% from baseline. Noninjected contralateral eyes of the same patient cohort were used as control. Primary outcome was defined as elevated IOP. Secondary outcomes were presence and type of glaucoma, number of injections, and time to IOP elevation. Elevated IOP occurred at a significantly higher rate in eyes receiving IVT ranibizumab (7.47%; n = 9) compared with control (0.93%; n = 1). Patients with preexisting glaucoma or ocular hypertension (OHT) were more likely to develop elevated IOP after IVT ranibizumab injection. Intravitreal ranibizumab injections are associated with sustained IOP elevation in some eyes. Reis GMSM, Grigg J, Chua B, Lee A, Lim R, Higgins R, Martins A, Goldberg I, Clement CI. The Incidence of Intraocular Pressure Elevation following Intravitreal Ranibizumab (Lucentis) for Age-related Macular Degeneration. J Curr Glaucoma Pract 2017;11(1):3-7.

Effect of kisspeptin-10, LH and hCG on serum testosterone concentrations in stallions, donkeys and mules.

PubMed

Akhtar, Rana Waseem; Shah, Syed Aftab Hussain; Qureshi, Irfan Zia

2017-10-15

This study was conducted to determine the response of serum testosterone (T) in male equines (stallions, donkeys and mules) after administering intravenous doses of kisspeptin-10 (KP-10), human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and luteinizing hormone (LH) and saline as a control. The animals were divided into four groups of three each: Group I, 3 ml of 0.95% saline; Group II, 50 μg KP-10; Group III, 2500 IU hCG and group IV, 400 μg LH. The administration of KP-10 and hCG to stallions resulted in a significant increase in serum T concentration at 240 min; whereas it was significantly higher at 30, 60, 120, and 240 min with LH treatment as compared to pre-dose concentrations. Both KP-10 and hCG significantly elevated the T concentrations in donkeys at 120 and 240 min, respectively; whereas it was significantly higher at 60, 120, and 240 min with LH treatment as compared to pre-dose concentration. Both KP-10 and LH elevated T in donkeys at 240 min as compared to the control and hCG concentrations. After 120 and 240 min, T concentrations in mules were higher (p < 0.05) with administration of KP-10, hCG and LH as compared to the control. In conclusion, the administration of KP-10, hCG and LH elevate the serum T concentration in normal male equines. It is suggested that KP-10 may be useful in situations where an increase in T is desired. Further work is required to determine the effect of KP-10 on T in male equids with reproductive abnormalities before it can be used in clinical situations. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

More inclusive bipolar mixed depression definitions by requiring fewer non-overlapping mood elevation symptoms.

PubMed

Kim, W; Kim, H; Citrome, L; Akiskal, H S; Goffin, K C; Miller, S; Holtzman, J N; Hooshmand, F; Wang, P W; Hill, S J; Ketter, T A

2016-09-01

Assess strengths and limitations of mixed bipolar depression definitions made more inclusive than that of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5) by requiring fewer than three 'non-overlapping' mood elevation symptoms (NOMES). Among bipolar disorder (BD) out-patients assessed with Systematic Treatment Enhancement Program for BD (STEP-BD) Affective Disorders Evaluation, we assessed prevalence, demographics, and clinical correlates of mixed vs. pure depression, using less inclusive (≥3 NOMES, DSM-5), more inclusive (≥2 NOMES), and most inclusive (≥1 NOMES) definitions. Among 153 depressed BD, compared to less inclusive DSM-5 threshold, our more and most inclusive thresholds, yielded approximately two- and five-fold higher mixed depression rates (7.2%, 15.0%, and 34.6% respectively), and important statistically significant clinical correlates for mixed compared to pure depression (e.g. more lifetime anxiety disorder comorbidity, more current irritability), which were not significant using the DSM-5 threshold. Further studies assessing strengths and limitations of more inclusive mixed depression definitions are warranted, including assessing the extent to which enhanced statistical power vs. other factors contributes to more vs. less inclusive mixed bipolar depression thresholds having more statistically significant clinical correlates, and whether 'overlapping' mood elevation symptoms should be counted. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

High levels of vitamin D in relation to reduced risk of schizophrenia with elevated C-reactive protein.

PubMed

Zhu, Dao-min; Liu, Yong; Zhang, Ai-guo; Chu, Zhao-xue; Wu, Qing; Li, Hui; Ge, Jin-fang; Dong, Yi; Zhu, Peng

2015-08-30

There is growing evidence on the novel role of vitamin D in reducing inflammation. This study aimed to examine the hypothesis that vitamin D is inversely associated with C-reactive protein (CRP) in patients with schizophrenia, and high levels of vitamin D may be linked to reduced risk of schizophrenia with elevated CRP. Ninety-three patients with schizophrenia and 93 family-matched controls were recruited in this cross-sectional study. Plasma concentrations of CRP and 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] were measured using commercial kits. Information about demographic characteristics and clinic data were obtained by interviews or medical records. Mean levels of CRP and 25(OH)D were 43.3% higher and 26.7% lower for patients compared to controls, respectively. 25(OH)D were inversely associated with CRP in the patients, but not in the controls. The proportions of patients significantly increased with increasing quartiles of CRP, while significantly decreased with increasing quartiles of 25(OH)D. Among individuals with high CRP, participants with high 25(OH)D have significantly lower proportion (adjusted OR =0.217, 95% CI 0.063, 0.751) of schizophrenia compared to those with low 25(OH)D. The evidence suggested that high levels of vitamin D may be linked to reduced risk of schizophrenia with elevated CRP. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

The effects of topography on magma chamber deformation models: Application to Mt. Etna and radar interferometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Williams, Charles A.; Wadge, Geoff

We have used a three-dimensional elastic finite element model to examine the effects of topography on the surface deformation predicted by models of magma chamber deflation. We used the topography of Mt. Etna to control the geometry of our model, and compared the finite element results to those predicted by an analytical solution for a pressurized sphere in an elastic half-space. Topography has a significant effect on the predicted surface deformation for both displacement profiles and synthetic interferograms. Not only are the predicted displacement magnitudes significantly different, but also the map-view patterns of displacement. It is possible to match the predicted displacement magnitudes fairly well by adjusting the elevation of a reference surface; however, the horizontal pattern of deformation is still significantly different. Thus, inversions based on constant-elevation reference surfaces may not properly estimate the horizontal position of a magma chamber. We have investigated an approach where the elevation of the reference surface varies for each computation point, corresponding to topography. For vertical displacements and tilts this method provides a good fit to the finite element results, and thus may form the basis for an inversion scheme. For radial displacements, a constant reference elevation provides a better fit to the numerical results.

AdVEGF-All6A+ Preconditioning of Murine Ischemic Skin Flaps Is Comparable to Surgical Delay.

PubMed

Gersch, Robert P; Fourman, Mitchell S; Phillips, Brett T; Nasser, Ahmed; McClain, Steve A; Khan, Sami U; Dagum, Alexander B; Bui, Duc T

2015-08-01

Surgical flap delay is commonly used in preconditioning reconstructive flaps to prevent necrosis. However, staged procedures are not ideal. Pharmacologic up-regulation of angiogenic and arteriogenic factors before flap elevation poses a nonsurgical approach to improve flap survival. Male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into control (n = 16), surgical delay (Delay), AdNull, AdEgr-1, and AdVEGF (n ≥ 9/group) groups. Delay rats had a 9 cm × 3 cm cranial based pedicle skin flap incised 10 days prior to elevation. Adenoviral groups received 28 intradermal injections (10(9) pu/animal total) throughout the distal two thirds of the flap 1 week prior to elevation. At postoperative day (POD) 0 flaps were elevated and silicone sheeting was placed between flap and wound bed. Perfusion analysis in arbitrary perfusion units of the ischemic middle third of the flap using laser Doppler imaging was conducted preoperatively and on POD 0, 3, and 7. Clinical and histopathologic assessments of the skin flaps were performed on POD 7. AdVEGF (50.8 ± 10.9 APU) and AdEgr-1 (39.3 ± 10.6 APU) perfusion levels were significantly higher than controls (16.5 ± 4.2 APU) on POD 7. Delay models were equivalent to controls (25.9 ± 6.8 APU). AdVEGF and Delay animals showed significantly more viable surface area on POD 7 (14.4 ± 1.3 cm(2), P < 0.01 and 12.4 ± 1.2 cm(2), P < 0.05, respectively) compared with Controls (8.7 ± 0.7 cm(2)). AdVEGF preconditioning resulted in flap survival comparable to surgical delay. Adenoviral preconditioning maintained perfusion levels postoperatively while surgical delay did not.

AdVEGF-All6A+ Preconditioning of Murine Ischemic Skin Flaps Is Comparable to Surgical Delay

PubMed Central

Gersch, Robert P.; Fourman, Mitchell S.; Phillips, Brett T.; Nasser, Ahmed; McClain, Steve A.; Khan, Sami U.; Dagum, Alexander B.

2015-01-01

Background: Surgical flap delay is commonly used in preconditioning reconstructive flaps to prevent necrosis. However, staged procedures are not ideal. Pharmacologic up-regulation of angiogenic and arteriogenic factors before flap elevation poses a nonsurgical approach to improve flap survival. Methods: Male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into control (n = 16), surgical delay (Delay), AdNull, AdEgr-1, and AdVEGF (n ≥ 9/group) groups. Delay rats had a 9 cm × 3 cm cranial based pedicle skin flap incised 10 days prior to elevation. Adenoviral groups received 28 intradermal injections (109 pu/animal total) throughout the distal two thirds of the flap 1 week prior to elevation. At postoperative day (POD) 0 flaps were elevated and silicone sheeting was placed between flap and wound bed. Perfusion analysis in arbitrary perfusion units of the ischemic middle third of the flap using laser Doppler imaging was conducted preoperatively and on POD 0, 3, and 7. Clinical and histopathologic assessments of the skin flaps were performed on POD 7. Results: AdVEGF (50.8 ± 10.9 APU) and AdEgr-1 (39.3 ± 10.6 APU) perfusion levels were significantly higher than controls (16.5 ± 4.2 APU) on POD 7. Delay models were equivalent to controls (25.9 ± 6.8 APU). AdVEGF and Delay animals showed significantly more viable surface area on POD 7 (14.4 ± 1.3 cm2, P < 0.01 and 12.4 ± 1.2 cm2, P < 0.05, respectively) compared with Controls (8.7 ± 0.7 cm2). Conclusions: AdVEGF preconditioning resulted in flap survival comparable to surgical delay. Adenoviral preconditioning maintained perfusion levels postoperatively while surgical delay did not. PMID:26495207

Effect of diabetes and elevated glucose on nitric oxide-mediated neurotransmission in rat anococcygeus muscle.

PubMed Central

Way, K. J.; Reid, J. J.

1995-01-01

1. Nitric oxide (NO)-mediated neurotransmission is impaired in anococcygeus muscle from 8-week streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. This study investigated the effects of insulin treatment, and the duration of diabetes on this impairment. In addition, the effect of in vitro exposure to elevated glucose has been investigated on NO-mediated relaxations, in muscles from untreated rats. 2. Relaxant responses to field stimulation (0.5-5 Hz, 10s train), sodium nitroprusside (SNP; 5 and 10 nM) and NO (1 and 3 microM) were significantly impaired in anococcygeus muscles from 8-week diabetic rats, compared to responses from control rats. Insulin treatment (5 u Lente day-1, s.c.) of diabetic rats prevented the development of this impairment. 3. Consistent with findings in 8-week diabetic rats, relaxation induced by field stimulation, SNP and NO were attenuated in tissues from 2-week and 4-week diabetic rats compared to corresponding control responses, whereas relaxations to papaverine (3 and 10 microM) were not reduced. In contrast, diabetes of 3-days duration did not affect relaxations to field stimulation, SNP or NO. 4. Incubation of anococcygeus muscles from untreated rats in medium containing elevated glucose (44.1 mM) for 6 h, significantly impaired relaxations to field stimulation compared to responses obtained after normal glucose (11.1 mM) incubation. Relaxations to SNP and to NO were not affected by 6 h exposure to elevated glucose. Similarly, incubation in hyperosmolar solutions containing mannose or sucrose for 6 h, impaired relaxations to field stimulation, but not to SNP or NO.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID:7582450

Genetic variation and control of chloroplast pigment concentrations in Picea rubens, Picea mariana and their hybrids. I. Ambient and elevated [CO2] environments.

PubMed

Major, John E; Barsi, Debby C; Mosseler, Alex; Campbell, Moira

2007-03-01

Traits related to light-energy processing have significant ecological implications for plant fitness. We studied the effects of elevated atmospheric CO(2) concentration ([CO(2)]) on chloroplast pigment traits of a red spruce (RS) (Picea rubens Sarg.)-black spruce (BS) (P. mariana (Mill.) B.S.P.) genetic complex in two experiments: (1) a comparative species' provenance experiment from across the near-northern part of the RS range; and (2) an intra- and interspecific controlled-cross experiment. Results from the provenance experiment showed that total chlorophyll (a + b) concentration was, on average, 15% higher in ambient [CO(2)] than in elevated [CO(2)] (P < 0.001). In ambient [CO(2)], BS populations averaged 11% higher total chlorophyll and carotenoid concentrations than RS populations (P < 0.001). There were significant species, CO(2), and species x CO(2) interaction effects, with chlorophyll concentration decreasing about 7 and 26% for BS and RS, respectively, in response to elevated [CO(2)]. Results from the controlled-cross experiment showed that families with a hybrid index of 25 (25% RS) had the highest total chlorophyll concentrations, and families with hybrid indices of 75 and 100 had among the lowest amounts. Initial analysis of the controlled-cross experiment supported a more additive model of inheritance; however, parental analysis showed a significant and predominant male effect for chlorophyll concentration. In ambient and elevated [CO(2)] environments, crosses with BS males had 10.6 and 17.6% higher total chlorophyll concentrations than crosses with hybrid and RS males, respectively. Our results show that chlorophyll concentration is under strong genetic control, and that these traits are positively correlated with productivity within and across species. A significant positive correlation between chlorophyll concentration and the ratio of total plant N to root dry mass was also found (r = 0.872). The almost fourfold decrease in chlorophyll concentration in RS suggests that it would be at a competitive disadvantage compared with BS in a high [CO(2)] environment.

Geographic distribution of dementia mortality: elevated mortality rates for black and white Americans by place of birth.

PubMed

Glymour, M Maria; Kosheleva, Anna; Wadley, Virginia G; Weiss, Christopher; Manly, Jennifer J

2011-01-01

We hypothesized that patterns of elevated stroke mortality among those born in the United States Stroke Belt (SB) states also prevailed for mortality related to all-cause dementia or Alzheimer Disease. Cause-specific mortality (contributing cause of death, including underlying cause cases) rates in 2000 for United States-born African Americans and whites aged 65 to 89 years were calculated by linking national mortality records with population data based on race, sex, age, and birth state or state of residence in 2000. Birth in a SB state (NC, SC, GA, TN, AR, MS, or AL) was cross-classified against SB residence at the 2000 Census. Compared with those who were not born in the SB, odds of all-cause dementia mortality were significantly elevated by 29% for African Americans and 19% for whites born in the SB. These patterns prevailed among individuals who no longer lived in the SB at death. Patterns were similar for Alzheimer Disease-related mortality. Some non-SB states were also associated with significant elevations in dementia-related mortality. Dementia mortality rates follow geographic patterns similar to stroke mortality, with elevated rates among those born in the SB. This suggests important roles for geographically patterned childhood exposures in establishing cognitive reserve.

Decreased C-reactive protein levels in Alzheimer disease.

PubMed

O'Bryant, Sid E; Waring, Stephen C; Hobson, Valerie; Hall, James R; Moore, Carol B; Bottiglieri, Teodoro; Massman, Paul; Diaz-Arrastia, Ramon

2010-03-01

C-reactive protein (CRP) is an acute-phase reactant that has been found to be associated with Alzheimer disease (AD) in histopathological and longitudinal studies; however, little data exist regarding serum CRP levels in patients with established AD. The current study evaluated CRP levels in 192 patients diagnosed with probable AD (mean age = 75.8 +/- 8.2 years; 50% female) as compared to 174 nondemented controls (mean age = 70.6 +/- 8.2 years; 63% female). Mean CRP levels were found to be significantly decreased in AD (2.9 microg/mL) versus controls (4.9 microg/mL; P = .003). In adjusted models, elevated CRP significantly predicted poorer (elevated) Clinical Dementia Rating Scale sum of boxes (CDR SB) scores in patients with AD. In controls, CRP was negatively associated with Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores and positively associated with CDR SB scores. These findings, together with previously published results, are consistent with the hypothesis that midlife elevations in CRP are associated with increased risk of AD development though elevated CRP levels are not useful for prediction in the immediate prodrome years before AD becomes clinically manifest. However, for a subgroup of patients with AD, elevated CRP continues to predict increased dementia severity suggestive of a possible proinflammatory endophenotype in AD.

Decreased C-Reactive Protein Levels in Alzheimer Disease

PubMed Central

O’Bryant, Sid E.; Waring, Stephen C.; Hobson, Valerie; Hall, James R.; Moore, Carol B.; Bottiglieri, Teodoro; Massman, Paul; Diaz-Arrastia, Ramon

2011-01-01

C-reactive protein (CRP) is an acute-phase reactant that has been found to be associated with Alzheimer disease (AD) in histo-pathological and longitudinal studies; however, little data exist regarding serum CRP levels in patients with established AD. The current study evaluated CRP levels in 192 patients diagnosed with probable AD (mean age = 75.8 ± 8.2 years; 50% female) as compared to 174 nondemented controls (mean age = 70.6 ± 8.2 years; 63% female). Mean CRP levels were found to be significantly decreased in AD (2.9 µg/mL) versus controls (4.9 µg/mL; P = .003). In adjusted models, elevated CRP significantly predicted poorer (elevated) Clinical Dementia Rating Scale sum of boxes (CDR SB) scores in patients with AD. In controls, CRP was negatively associated with Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores and positively associated with CDR SB scores. These findings, together with previously published results, are consistent with the hypothesis that midlife elevations in CRP are associated with increased risk of AD development though elevated CRP levels are not useful for prediction in the immediate prodrome years before AD becomes clinically manifest. However, for a subgroup of patients with AD, elevated CRP continues to predict increased dementia severity suggestive of a possible proinflammatory endophenotype in AD. PMID:19933496

Factors associated with positive direct antiglobulin tests in pretransfusion patients: a case-control study.

PubMed

Toy, P T; Chin, C A; Reid, M E; Burns, M A

1985-01-01

During routine pretransfusion testing, the presence of IgG on patient red cells is suggested by a positive autocontrol and confirmed by a positive direct antiglobulin test (DAT) using monospecific anti-IgG sera. Most IgG on patient red cells detected in this manner are of unknown etiology. We recently showed an association between elevated serum globulin levels and positive DAT with unreactive eluate in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). In the present study, we wished to determine whether elevated serum globulin levels contribute to some of the positive DAT encountered in pretransfusion testing of patients without AIDS. 76 patients with positive DAT were compared with 90 controls without IgG detected on their red cells during pretransfusion testing. The rate of elevated serum globulin levels was 75% in positive DAT cases versus 29% in controls (p less than 0.001); the odds ratio was 7.6. Elevated blood urea nitrogen levels occurred in 42% of cases versus 19% of controls (p less than 0.025); the odds ratio was 3.1. Cases and controls were not significantly different with regard to age, sex, race, quinidine usage, or hyperalimentation. Elevated serum globulin and blood urea nitrogen levels are significantly associated with a positive DAT with unreactive eluate in pretransfusion patients.

Risk stratification of chronic heart failure patients by multiple biomarkers: implications of BNP, H-FABP, and PTX3.

PubMed

Ishino, Mitsunori; Takeishi, Yasuchika; Niizeki, Takeshi; Watanabe, Tetsu; Nitobe, Joji; Miyamoto, Takuya; Miyashita, Takehiko; Kitahara, Tatsuro; Suzuki, Satoshi; Sasaki, Toshiki; Bilim, Olga; Kubota, Isao

2008-11-01

B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), heart-type fatty acid-binding protein (H-FABP), and pentraxin 3 (PTX3) each predict adverse cardiac events in chronic heart failure (CHF) patients. For prognostic evaluation from different aspects, the utility of combined measurement of the 3 biomarkers in patients with CHF was examined in the present study. Levels of BNP (associated with left ventricular dysfunction, positive if >200 pg/ml), H-FABP (marker of myocardial damage, positive if >4.1 ng/ml), and PTX3 (marker of inflammation, positive if >4.0 ng/ml) were measured in 164 consecutive CHF patients, and patients were prospectively followed with endpoints of cardiac death or rehospitalization. When patients were categorized on the basis of the number of elevated biomarkers, patients with 1, 2, and 3 elevated biomarkers had a 5.4-fold (not significant), 11.2-old (p<0.05), and 34.6-fold increase (p<0.01), respectively, in the risk of adverse cardiac events compared with those without elevated biomarkers. Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed that patients with 3 elevated biomarkers had a significantly higher cardiac event rate than patients with a lower number of elevated biomarkers. The combination of these 3 biomarkers could reliably risk-stratify CHF patients for prediction of cardiac events.

Effect of thought suppression on desire to smoke and tobacco withdrawal symptoms.

PubMed

Erskine, James A K; Ussher, Michael; Cropley, Mark; Elgindi, Abdelaziz; Zaman, Manzir; Corlett, Bethan

2012-01-01

Suppressing smoking thoughts has been shown to result in elevated smoking. However, the effect of suppressing smoking thoughts on desire to smoke and withdrawal symptoms has not been investigated. We examined the effects of suppressing smoking thoughts on the subsequent desire to smoke and on tobacco withdrawal symptoms, relative to groups that were either thinking about anything they wished or actively thinking about smoking. A randomised experimental study compared the effects of three manipulations (suppressed smoking thoughts, expressed smoking thoughts and thoughts of anything they wished) on desire and withdrawal immediately after the manipulation and 5 and 10 min after. Suppressing smoking thoughts did not result in elevated subsequent desire to smoke, relative to the other manipulations. Suppressing smoking thoughts resulted in a significant elevation in hunger ratings, relative to the other manipulations, at all measurement times. There were no significant effects for the other withdrawal symptoms. Self-reported greater use of thought suppression in everyday life was significantly associated with greater desire to smoke at baseline and was associated with lower mindfulness scores. Laboratory-instructed suppression of smoking thoughts is associated with increased reports of hunger but did not lead to increases in other withdrawal symptoms or elevated desire to smoke. Reports of everyday use of thought suppression are associated with elevated desire to smoke at baseline. Further investigations need to assess the effect of suppressing smoking cravings, instead of general smoking thoughts, on desire to smoke and tobacco withdrawal.

Urinary Angiotensinogen Excretion Level Is Associated With Elevated Blood Pressure in the Normotensive General Population.

PubMed

Sato, Emiko; Wang, An Yi; Satoh, Michihiro; Nishikiori, Yoko; Oba-Yabana, Ikuko; Yoshida, Mai; Sato, Hiroshi; Ito, Sadayoshi; Hida, Wataru; Mori, Takefumi

2018-05-07

Inflammation, intrarenal renin-angiotensin system (RAS) activation, oxidative stress, and carbonyl stress have been postulated to play a fundamental role in controlling blood pressure. However, little is known about the association among renal RAS activation, carbonyl stress, and blood pressure elevation. We evaluated the relationship between blood pressure elevation and either renal RAS activity or carbonyl stress in the general population (N = 355) in Japan. To minimize the effect of antihypertensive drug therapy, we divided participants into 3 groups (normotensive, hypertensive-with-non-medication, and hypertensive-with-medication). Intrarenal RAS activity and carbonyl stress were indicated by the urinary angiotensinogen (AGT) and carbonyl compound excretion levels, respectively. The urinary AGT and carbonyl compound excretion levels were significantly associated with blood pressure. Using a stepwise multiple regression analysis, we found that the urinary AGT excretion levels were strongly associated with blood pressure elevation, compared with inflammation, oxidative stress, and carbonyl stress markers, in all groups. Urinary carbonyl compound excretion was significantly associated with blood pressure in only the hypertensive-without-medication group. Furthermore, blood pressure was significantly increased in these participants, and both the urinary AGT and carbonyl compound levels were high. The urinary AGT excretion levels were strongly associated with elevated blood pressure in normotensive people, and inappropriate renal RAS activity and carbonyl stress independently contributed to the development of hypertension. These findings suggest that RAS activation, particularly renal RAS activation exert a fundamental role in the pathogenesis of hypertension in the general population.

Posterior corneal topographic changes after partial flap during laser in situ keratomileusis

PubMed Central

Sharma, N; Rani, A; Balasubramanya, R; Vajpayee, R B; Pandey, R M

2003-01-01

Aim: To study the posterior corneal topographic changes in eyes with partial flaps during laser assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). Methods: Case records of 16 patients, who had partial flap in one eye during LASIK (group 1) and uncomplicated surgery in the other eye (group 2), were studied. Following occurrence of partial flap intraoperatively, laser ablation was abandoned in all the eyes. A 160/180 μm flap was attempted during the initial procedure using the Hansatome microkeratome (Bausch & Lomb Surgicals, Munich, Germany). LASIK surgery in all cases was performed using a 180 μm plate, at the mean interval of 4.16 (SD 1.5) months following the initial procedure. None of the eyes had intraoperative complication during LASIK. Relative posterior corneal surface elevation above the best fit sphere (BFS) before the initial procedure, before, and after LASIK were compared using the Orbscan slit scanning corneal topography/pachymetry system. Results: Posterior corneal elevation was comparable in the two groups, both preoperatively (group 1; 16.4 (4.8) μm, group 2; 16.1 (4.8) μm) and after final surgery (group 1; 57.2 (15.6) μm, group 2; 54.3 (13.1) μm). In group 1 after occurrence of partial flap, the posterior corneal elevation was 16.9 (4.4) μm, and this increase was not significant statistically (p=0.4). On multiple linear regression analysis, residual bed thickness (p<0.001) was independently the significant determinant of final posterior corneal elevation in both groups. Conclusion: The inadvertent occurrence of partial flap during LASIK procedure does not contribute to the increase in posterior corneal elevation. PMID:12543743

Palmitic Acid Reduces Circulating Bone Formation Markers in Obese Animals and Impairs Osteoblast Activity via C16-Ceramide Accumulation.

PubMed

Alsahli, Ahmad; Kiefhaber, Kathryn; Gold, Tziporah; Muluke, Munira; Jiang, Hongfeng; Cremers, Serge; Schulze-Späte, Ulrike

2016-05-01

Obesity and impaired lipid metabolism increase circulating and local fatty acid (FA) levels. Our previous studies showed that a high high-saturated -fat diet induced greater bone loss in mice than a high high-unsaturated-fat diet due to increased osteoclast numbers and activity. The impact of elevated FA levels on osteoblasts is not yet clear. We induced obesity in 4 week old male mice using a palmitic acid (PA)- or oleic acid (OA)-enriched high fat high-fat diet (HFD) (20 % of calories from FA), and compared them to mice on a normal (R) caloric diet (10 % of calories from FA). We collected serum to determine FA and bone metabolism marker levels. Primary osteoblasts were isolated; cultured in PA, OA, or control (C) medium; and assessed for mineralization activity, gene expression, and ceramide levels. Obese animals in the PA and OA groups had significantly lower serum levels of bone formation markers P1NP and OC compared to normal weight animals (*p < 0.001), with the lowest marker levels in animals on an PA-enriched HFD (*p < 0.001). Accordingly, elevated levels of PA significantly reduced osteoblast mineralization activity in vitro (*p < 0.05). Elevated PA intake significantly increased C16 ceramide accumulation. This accumulation was preventable through inhibition of SPT2 (serine palmitoyl transferase 2) using myriocin. Elevated levels of PA reduce osteoblast function in vitro and bone formation markers in vivo. Our findings suggest that saturated PA can compromise bone health by affecting osteoblasts, and identify a potential mechanism through which obesity promotes bone loss.

Microbial Communities of High-Elevation Fumaroles, Penitentes, and Dry Tephra "Soils" of the Puna de Atacama Volcanic Zone.

PubMed

Solon, Adam J; Vimercati, Lara; Darcy, J L; Arán, Pablo; Porazinska, Dorota; Dorador, C; Farías, M E; Schmidt, S K

2018-01-05

The aim of this study was to understand the spatial distribution of microbial communities (18S and 16S rRNA genes) across one of the harshest terrestrial landscapes on Earth. We carried out Illumina sequencing using samples from two expeditions to the high slopes (up to 6050 m.a.s.l.) of Volcán Socompa and Llullaillaco to describe the microbial communities associated with the extremely dry tephra compared to areas that receive water from fumaroles and ice fields made up of nieves penitentes. There were strong spatial patterns relative to these landscape features with the most diverse (alpha diversity) communities being associated with fumaroles. Penitentes did not significantly increase alpha diversity compared to dry tephra at the same elevation (5825 m.a.s.l.) on Volcán Socompa, but the structure of the 18S community (beta diversity) was significantly affected by the presence of penitentes on both Socompa and Llullaillaco. In addition, the 18S community was significantly different in tephra wetted by penitentes versus dry tephra sites across many elevations on Llullaillaco. Traditional phototrophs (algae and cyanobacteria) were abundant in wetter tephra associated with fumaroles, and algae (but not cyanobacteria) were common in tephra associated with penitentes. Dry tephra had neither algae nor cyanobacteria but did host potential phototrophs in the Rhodospirillales on Volcán Llullaillaco, but not on Socompa. These results provide new insights into the distribution of microbes across one of the most extreme terrestrial environments on Earth and provide the first ever glimpse of life associated with nieves penitentes, spire-shaped ice structures that are widespread across the mostly unexplored high-elevation Andean Central Volcanic Zone.

The relationship between complaints of night-time heartburn and sleep-related gastroesophageal reflux.

PubMed

Orr, W C; Goodrich, S; Estep, M E; Shepherd, K

2014-01-01

This study investigated whether the complaint of night-time heartburn (NHB) as opposed to daytime heartburn (DHB) is a reliable reflection of actual sleep-related reflux events. Three groups of individuals were studied: individuals with complaints of NHB at least twice per week (n = 24), individuals with complaints of DHB (n = 23), and normal participants without any complaints of regular heartburn during the day or night (n = 25). All three groups were studied on one occasion with combined pH monitoring and polysomnography, and subjective questionnaires about sleep disturbance and sleep quality were given to all participants. The NHB group had significantly more sleep-related reflux events compared with both DHB and control groups (P < 0.01). DHB subjects had significantly (P < 0.05) more sleep-related reflux events than normal controls. Total acid contact time (ACT) was significantly (P < 0.05) elevated in the NHB group compared with both the DHB and control group. Sleep-related ACT was also significantly (P < 0.05) elevated in the NHB group compared with the other two groups, while upright (daytime) ACT was not significantly different. The NHB group was significantly (P < 0.05) worse regarding measures of both objective and subjective sleep quality. Subjects with exclusively DHB do have sleep-related reflux that is greater than normal controls. Subjects with NHB have significantly more sleep-related reflux, and both objective and subjective sleep abnormalities compared with normal controls. Complaints of NHB reflect sleep-related reflux events and may be indicative of a more clinically significant condition. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. and the International Society for Diseases of the Esophagus.

The Effects of Using a Ramp and Elevator to Load and Unload Trailers on the Behavior and Physiology of Piglets

PubMed Central

McGlone, John; Sapkota, Avi

2014-01-01

Simple Summary Transport is a routine practice in the modern swine industry. Loading the pigs into trailers can be a novel and stressful experience for the animals. This study compared behaviors and physiological variables during and after loading using a ramp or elevator to determine which method is the least stressful to the pigs. Loading pigs by ramp appears to cause more stress than loading by elevator. Abstract Transport is an inevitable process in the modern U.S. swine industry. The loading process is a novel and potentially stressful experience. This study uses behavior, heart rate and leukocyte counts to compare stress one hour before, during and after loading via ramp or elevator. Piglets were held in a home pen (control (CON)), walked up and down an aisle (handled (HAN)), or walked to a truck and loaded via elevator (ELE) or ramp (RAM). Sitting, feeding and blood parameters did not show a significant treatment by time effect (p > 0.05). Standing behavior did not differ between CON and HAN piglets nor between RAM and ELE piglets (p > 0.05); however, CON and HAN piglets stood more than RAM and ELE piglets during treatment (p < 0.05). After treatment, drinking behavior was increased in RAM piglets (p < 0.05). The heart rate of ELE piglets decreased 6.3% after treatment; whereas the heart rate of RAM piglets remained elevated 2.4% (p < 0.05). In terms of heart rate, loading by elevator appears to be less stressful than loading by ramp. PMID:26480323

Long-term moderate elevation of corticosterone facilitates avian food-caching behaviour and enhances spatial memory.

PubMed

Pravosudov, Vladimir V

2003-12-22

It is widely assumed that chronic stress and corresponding chronic elevations of glucocorticoid levels have deleterious effects on animals' brain functions such as learning and memory. Some animals, however, appear to maintain moderately elevated levels of glucocorticoids over long periods of time under natural energetically demanding conditions, and it is not clear whether such chronic but moderate elevations may be adaptive. I implanted wild-caught food-caching mountain chickadees (Poecile gambeli), which rely at least in part on spatial memory to find their caches, with 90-day continuous time-release corticosterone pellets designed to approximately double the baseline corticosterone levels. Corticosterone-implanted birds cached and consumed significantly more food and showed more efficient cache recovery and superior spatial memory performance compared with placebo-implanted birds. Thus, contrary to prevailing assumptions, long-term moderate elevations of corticosterone appear to enhance spatial memory in food-caching mountain chickadees. These results suggest that moderate chronic elevation of corticosterone may serve as an adaptation to unpredictable environments by facilitating feeding and food-caching behaviour and by improving cache-retrieval efficiency in food-caching birds.

Mechanisms Underlying Endothelin-1 Level Elevations Caused by Excessive Fluoride Exposure.

PubMed

Sun, Liyan; Gao, Yanhui; Zhang, Wei; Liu, Xiaona; Li, Bingyun; Cui, Xiaohui; Sun, Dianjun

2016-01-01

To explore the mechanisms underlying endothelin-1 (ET-1) elevations induced by excessive fluoride exposure. We measured serum and bone fluoride ion content and plasma ET-1 levels and compared these parameters among different groups in an animal model. We also observed morphological changes in the aorta and endothelium of rabbits. In cell experiments, human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were treated with varying concentrations of NaF for 24h, with or without 10 µM U0126 pretreatment for 1 h. ET-1 levels in culture fluid and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, as well as ET1 gene, endothelin-converting enzyme-1 (ECE-1), extracellular signal-regulating kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), pERK1/2 expression levels and RAS activation were measured and compared among the groups. Plasma ET-1 levels of rabbits increased significantly in fluorinated groups compared with those in the control group. The rabbit thoracic aortas became slightly hardened in fluorinated groups compared with those in the control group, and some vacuoles were present in the endothelial cell cytoplasm of the rabbits in fluorinated groups. In our cell experiments, ET1 gene and ECE-1 expression levels in HUVECs and ET-1 expression levels in the cell culture supernatants increased significantly in some experimental groups compared with those in the control group. These trends paralleled the changes in intracellular ROS levels, RAS activation, and the pERK1/2-to-ERK1/2 ratio. After U0126 was added, ECE-1 expression and ET-1 levels decreased significantly. Excessive fluoride exposure leads to characteristic endothelial damage (vacuoles), thoracic aorta hardening, and plasma ET-1 level elevations in rabbits. In addition, the ROS-RAS-MEK1/2-pERK1/2/ERK1/2 pathway plays a crucial-and at least partial-role in ET-1 over-expression, which is promoted by excessive fluoride exposure. © 2016 The Author(s) Published by S. Karger AG, Basel.

Isoflurane and ketamine:xylazine differentially affect intraocular pressure-associated scotopic threshold responses in Sprague-Dawley rats.

PubMed

Choh, Vivian; Gurdita, Akshay; Tan, Bingyao; Feng, Yunwei; Bizheva, Kostadinka; McCulloch, Daphne L; Joos, Karen M

2017-10-01

Amplitudes of electroretinograms (ERG) are enhanced during acute, moderate elevation of intraocular pressure (IOP) in rats anaesthetised with isoflurane. As anaesthetics alone are known to affect ERG amplitudes, the present study compares the effects of inhalant isoflurane and injected ketamine:xylazine on the scotopic threshold response (STR) in rats with moderate IOP elevation. Isoflurane-anaesthetised (n = 9) and ketamine:xylazine-anaesthetised (n = 6) rats underwent acute unilateral IOP elevation using a vascular loop anterior to the equator of the right eye. STRs to a luminance series (subthreshold to -3.04 log scotopic cd s/m 2 ) were recorded from each eye of Sprague-Dawley rats before, during, and after IOP elevation. Positive STR (pSTR) amplitudes for all conditions were significantly smaller (p = 0.0001) for isoflurane- than for ketamine:xylazine-anaesthetised rats. In addition, ketamine:xylazine was associated with a progressive increase in pSTR amplitudes over time (p = 0.0028). IOP elevation was associated with an increase in pSTR amplitude (both anaesthetics p < 0.0001). The absolute interocular differences in IOP-associated enhancement of pSTR amplitudes for ketamine:xylazine and isoflurane were similar (66.3 ± 35.5 vs. 54.2 ± 24.1 µV, respectively). However, the fold increase in amplitude during IOP elevation was significantly higher in the isoflurane- than in the ketamine:xylazine-anaesthetised rats (16.8 ± 29.7x vs. 2.1 ± 2.7x, respectively, p = 0.0004). The anaesthetics differentially affect the STRs in the rat model with markedly reduced amplitudes with isoflurane compared to ketamine:xylazine. However, the IOP-associated enhancement is of similar absolute magnitude for the two anaesthetics, suggesting that IOP stress and anaesthetic effects operate on separate retinal mechanisms.

Recent shifts in Himalayan vegetation activity trends in response to climatic change and environmental drivers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mishra, N. B.; Mainali, K. P.

2016-12-01

Climatic changes along with anthropogenic disturbances are causing dramatic ecological impacts in mid to high latitude mountain vegetation including in the Himalayas which are ecologically sensitive environments. Given the challenges associated with in situ vegetation monitoring in the Himalayas, remote sensing based quantification of vegetation dynamics can provide essential ecological information on changes in vegetation activity that may consist of alternative sequence of greening and/or browning periods. This study utilized a trend break analysis procedure for detection of monotonic as well as abrupt (either interruption or reversal) trend changes in smoothed normalized difference vegetation index satellite time-series data over the Himalayas. Overall, trend breaks in vegetation greenness showed high spatio-temporal variability in distribution considering elevation, ecoregion and land cover/use stratifications. Interrupted greening was spatially most dominant in all Himalayan ecoregions followed by abrupt browning. Areas showing trend reversal and monotonic trends appeared minority. Trend type distribution was strongly dependent on elevation as majority of greening (with or without interruption) occurred at lower elevation areas at higher elevation were dominantly. Ecoregion based stratification of trend types highlighted some exception to this elevational dependence as high altitude ecoregions of western Himalayas showed significantly less browning compared to the ecoregions in eastern Himalaya. Land cover/use based analysis of trend distribution showed that interrupted greening was most dominant in closed needleleafed forest following by rainfed cropland and mosaic croplands while interrupted browning most dominant in closed to open herbaceous vegetation found at higher elevation areas followed by closed needleleafed forest and closed to open broad leafed evergreen forests. Spatial analysis of trend break timing showed that for majority of areas experiencing interrupted greening, break in trend occurred later compared to areas with interrupted browning where break trend was observed much earlier. These results have significant implications for environmental management in the context of climate change and ecosystem dynamics in the Himalayas.

Parenting and Early Adolescent Internalizing: The Importance of Teasing Apart Anxiety and Depressive Symptoms

PubMed Central

Johnson, Lesley E.; Greenberg, Mark T.

2013-01-01

This community-based study examined differences in parenting quality and parent symptoms for youth in four categories: anxious (elevated anxiety symptoms), depressed (elevated depressive symptoms), comorbid (elevated anxiety and depressive symptoms), and nonelevated (elevations of neither type). Respondents were 976 young adolescents (mean age = 11.3) and their parents (912 mothers, 647 fathers) randomly selected from 28 rural/small town communities. Results indicated that depressed and comorbid groups were associated with significantly lower parenting quality and higher parent psychopathology compared to the nonelevated and anxious groups. This pattern was generally consistent across reporters (youth, mother, and father) and four domains of or related to parenting (support/warmth, conflict/anger, general child management (GCM), and parent psychopathology). Results highlight the importance of accounting for comorbidity when examining relationships between psychopathology symptoms and related variables such as parenting. Implications include the need to address relationships with parents when intervening with youth at risk for or experiencing elevated depressive symptoms. PMID:24027352

Detection of Immunoglobulin G Antibodies to Taenia solium Cysticercosis Antigen Glutathione-S-Transferase-rT24H in Malian Children Using Multiplex Bead Assay.

PubMed

Moss, Delynn M; Handali, Sukwan; Chard, Anna N; Trinies, Victoria; Bullard, Stevan; Wiegand, Ryan E; Doumbia, Seydou; Freeman, Matthew C; Lammie, Patrick J

2018-05-01

Blood samples from 805 students attending 42 elementary schools in Mopti, Sikasso, and Koulikoro regions, and Bamako district in Mali participated in a school water, sanitation, and hygiene intervention. Immunoglobulin (Ig) G responses to several antigens/pathogens were assessed by a multiplex bead assay (MBA), and the recombinant Taenia solium T24H antigen was included. Of all students tested, 8.0% were positive to rT24H, but in some schools 25-30%. A cluster of 12 widespread school locations showed not only a relative risk of 3.23 for T. solium exposure and significantly higher IgG responses ( P < 0.001) but also significantly lower elevation ( P = 0.04) (m, above sea level) compared with schools outside the cluster. All schools at elevations < 425 m showed significantly higher IgG responses ( P = 0.017) than schools at elevations ≥ 425 m. The MBA is an excellent serological platform that provides cost-effective opportunities to expand testing in serosurveys.

Elevated major ion concentrations inhibit larval mayfly growth and development.

PubMed

Johnson, Brent R; Weaver, Paul C; Nietch, Christopher T; Lazorchak, James M; Struewing, Katherine A; Funk, David H

2015-01-01

Anthropogenic disturbances, including those from developing energy resources, can alter stream chemistry significantly by elevating total dissolved solids. Field studies have indicated that mayflies (Order Ephemeroptera) are particularly sensitive to high total dissolved solids. In the present study, the authors measured 20-d growth and survivorship of larval Neocloeon triangulifer exposed to a gradient of brine salt (mixed NaCl and CaCl2 ) concentrations. Daily growth rates were reduced significantly in all salt concentrations above the control (363 µS cm(-1) ) and larvae in treatments with specific conductance >812 µS cm(-1) were in comparatively earlier developmental stages (instars) at the end of the experiment. Survivorship declined significantly when specific conductance was >1513 µS cm(-1) and the calculated 20-d 50% lethal concentration was 2866 µS cm(-1) . The present study's results provide strong experimental evidence that elevated ion concentrations similar to those observed in developing energy resources, such as oil and gas drilling or coal mining, can adversely affect sensitive aquatic insect species. © 2014 SETAC.

Estimates of Ice Sheet Mass Balance from Satellite Altimetry: Past and Future

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zwally, H. Jay; Zukor, Dorothy J. (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

A major uncertainty in predicting sea level rise is the sensitivity of ice sheet mass balance to climate change, as well as the uncertainty in present mass balance. Since the annual water exchange is about 8 mm of global sea level equivalent, the 20% uncertainty in current mass balance corresponds to 1.6 mm/yr in sea level change. Furthermore, estimates of the sensitivity of the mass balance to temperature change range from perhaps as much as - 10% to + 10% per K. A principal purpose of obtaining ice sheet elevation changes from satellite altimetry has been estimation of the current ice sheet mass balance. Limited information on ice sheet elevation change and their implications about mass balance have been reported by several investigators from radar altimetry (Seasat, Geosat, ERS-1&2). Analysis of ERS-1&2 data over Greenland for 7 years from 1992 to 1999 shows mixed patterns of ice elevation increases and decreases that are significant in terms of regional-scale mass balances. Observed seasonal and interannual variations in ice surface elevation are larger than previously expected because of seasonal and interannUal variations in precipitation, melting, and firn compaction. In the accumulation zone, the variations in firn compaction are modeled as a function of temperature leaving variations in precipitation and the mass balance trend. Significant interannual variations in elevation in some locations, in particular the difference in trends from 1992 to 1995 compared to 1995 to 1999, can be explained by changes in precipitation over Greenland. Over the 7 years, trends in elevation are mostly positive at higher elevations and negative at lower elevations. In addition, trends for the winter seasons (from a trend analysis through the average winter elevations) are more positive than the corresponding trends for the summer. At lower elevations, the 7-year trends in some locations are strongly negative for summer and near zero or slightly positive for winter. These observations also demonstrate the potential for relating the variability in mass balance to changes in precipitation, temperature, and melting. Beginning in January 2002, NASA's ICESat laser altimeter mission will provide significantly better elevation accuracy and spatial coverage to 86E latitude and to the margins of the ice sheets.

Limitations to soybean photosynthesis at elevated carbon dioxide in free-air enrichment and open top chamber systems.

PubMed

Bunce, James A

2014-09-01

It has been suggested that the stimulation of soybean photosynthesis by elevated CO2 was less in free-air carbon dioxide enrichment (FACE) systems than in open top chambers (OTC), which might explain smaller yield increases at elevated CO2 in FACE systems. However, this has not been tested using the same cultivars grown in the same location. I tested whether soybean photosynthesis at high light and elevated CO2 (ambient+180 μmol mol(-1)) was limited by electron transport (J) in FACE systems but by ribulose-bisphosphate carboxylation capacity (VCmax) in OTC. FACE systems with daytime and continuous CO2 enrichment were also compared. The results indicated that in both cultivars examined, midday photosynthesis at high light was always limited by VCmax, both in the FACE and in the OTC systems. Daytime only CO2 enrichment did not affect photosynthetic parameters or limitations, but did result in significantly smaller yields in both cultivars than continuous elevation. Photosynthesis measured at low photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) was not higher at elevated than at ambient CO2, because of an acclimation to elevated CO2 which was only evident at low measurement PPFDs. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.

Tomato–Pseudomonas syringae interactions under elevated CO2 concentration: the role of stomata

PubMed Central

Li, Xin; Sun, Zenghui; Shao, Shujun; Zhang, Shuai; Ahammed, Golam Jalal; Zhang, Guanqun; Jiang, Yuping; Zhou, Jie; Xia, Xiaojian; Zhou, Yanhong; Yu, Jingquan; Shi, Kai

2015-01-01

Increasing atmospheric CO2 concentrations ([CO2]) in agricultural and natural ecosystems is known to reduce plant stomatal opening, but it is unclear whether these CO2-induced stomatal alterations are associated with foliar pathogen infections. In this study, tomato plants were grown under ambient and elevated [CO2] and inoculated with Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato strain DC3000, a strain that is virulent on tomato plants. We found that elevated [CO2] enhanced tomato defence against P. syringae. Scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed that stomatal aperture of elevated [CO2] plants was considerably smaller than their ambient counterparts, which affected the behaviour of P. syringae bacteria on the upper surface of epidermal peels. Pharmacological experiments revealed that nitric oxide (NO) played a role in elevated [CO2]-induced stomatal closure. Silencing key genes involved in NO generation and stomatal closing, nitrate reductase (NR) and guard cell slow-type anion channel 1 (SLAC1), blocked elevated [CO2]-induced stomatal closure and resulted in significant increases in P. syringae infection. However, the SLAC1-silenced plants, but not the NR-silenced plants, still had significantly higher defence under elevated [CO2] compared with plants treated with ambient [CO2]. Similar results were obtained when the stomata-limiting factor for P. syringae entry was excluded by syringe infiltration inoculation. These results indicate that elevated [CO2] induces defence against P. syringae in tomato plants, not only by reducing the stomata-mediated entry of P. syringae but also by invoking a stomata-independent pathway to counteract P. syringae. This information is valuable for designing proper strategies against bacterial pathogens under changing agricultural and natural ecosystems. PMID:25336683

Few apparent short-term effects of elevated soil temperature and increased frequency of summer precipitation on the abundance and taxonomic diversity of desert soil micro- and meso-fauna

USGS Publications Warehouse

Darby, B.J.; Neher, D.A.; Housman, D.C.; Belnap, J.

2011-01-01

Frequent hydration and drying of soils in arid systems can accelerate desert carbon and nitrogen mobilization due to respiration, microbial death, and release of intracellular solutes. Because desert microinvertebrates can mediate nutrient cycling, and the autotrophic components of crusts are known to be sensitive to rapid desiccation due to elevated temperatures after wetting events, we studied whether altered soil temperature and frequency of summer precipitation can also affect the composition of food web consumer functional groups. We conducted a two-year field study with experimentally-elevated temperature and frequency of summer precipitation in the Colorado Plateau desert, measuring the change in abundance of nematodes, protozoans, and microarthropods. We hypothesized that microfauna would be more adversely affected by the combination of elevated temperature and frequency of summer precipitation than either effect alone, as found previously for phototrophic crust biota. Microfauna experienced normal seasonal fluctuations in abundance, but the effect of elevated temperature and frequency of summer precipitation was statistically non-significant for most microfaunal groups, except amoebae. The seasonal increase in abundance of amoebae was reduced with combined elevated temperature and increased frequency of summer precipitation compared to either treatment alone, but comparable with control (untreated) plots. Based on our findings, we suggest that desert soil microfauna are relatively more tolerant to increases in ambient temperature and frequency of summer precipitation than the autotrophic components of biological soil crust at the surface.

The relationship between heart rate and mortality of patients with acute coronary syndromes in the coronary intervention era: Meta-analysis.

PubMed

Xu, Tan; Zhan, Youqin; Xiong, Jianping; Lu, Nan; He, Zhuoqiao; Su, Xi; Tan, Xuerui

2016-11-01

Most of acute coronary syndromes (ACS) were receiving intervention treatment a high overall rate of coronary angiography in the modern medical practice.Consequently, we conduct a review to determine the heart rate (HR) on the prognosis of ACS in the coronary intervention era. PubMed, EMBASE, MEDLINE, and the Cochrane Library was systematically searched up to May 2016 using the search terms "heart rate," "acute coronary syndrome," "acute myocardial infarction," "ST elevation myocardial infarction," "non-ST-segment elevation." The outcome of interest was all-cause mortality. All analyses were performed using Review Manager. Database searches retrieved 2324 citations. Eleven studies enrolling 156,374 patients were included. In-hospital mortality was significantly higher in the elevated HR group compared to the lower HR group (pooled RR 2.04, 95%CI 1.80-2.30, P < 0.0001). Individuals with elevated admission HR had increased risk of long-term mortality (Pooled RR = 1.63, 95%CI 1.27-2.10, P = 0.008) compared to lower admission HR. The pooled results showed elevated discharge and resting HR were related to increased mortality of patients with ACS (pooled RR 1.88, 95% CI 1.02-3.47, P = 0.04; pooled RR 2.14, 95%CI 1.37-3.33, P < 0.0001, respectively). Elevated HR may increase the mortality of ACS patients in the percutaneous coronary intervention era.

Natural honey lowers plasma glucose, C-reactive protein, homocysteine, and blood lipids in healthy, diabetic, and hyperlipidemic subjects: comparison with dextrose and sucrose.

PubMed

Al-Waili, Noori S

2004-01-01

This study included the following experiments: (1) effects of dextrose solution (250 mL of water containing 75 g of dextrose) or honey solution (250 mL of water containing 75 g of natural honey) on plasma glucose level (PGL), plasma insulin, and plasma C-peptide (eight subjects); (2) effects of dextrose, honey, or artificial honey (250 mL of water containing 35 g of dextrose and 40 g of fructose) on cholesterol and triglycerides (TG) (nine subjects); (3) effects of honey solution, administered for 15 days, on PGL, blood lipids, C-reactive protein (CRP), and homocysteine (eight subjects); (4) effects of honey or artificial honey on cholesterol and TG in six patients with hypercholesterolemia and five patients with hypertriglyceridemia; (5) effects of honey for 15 days on blood lipid and CRP in five patients with elevated cholesterol and CRP; (6) effects of 70 g of dextrose or 90 g of honey on PGL in seven patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus; and (7) effects of 30 g of sucrose or 30 g of honey on PGL, plasma insulin, and plasma C-peptide in five diabetic patients. In healthy subjects, dextrose elevated PGL at 1 (53%) and 2 (3%) hours, and decreased PGL after 3 hours (20%). Honey elevated PGL after 1 hour (14%) and decreased it after 3 hours (10%). Elevation of insulin and C-peptide was significantly higher after dextrose than after honey. Dextrose slightly reduced cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) after 1 hour and significantly after 2 hours, and increased TG after 1, 2, and 3 hours. Artificial honey slightly decreased cholesterol and LDL-C and elevated TG. Honey reduced cholesterol, LDL-C, and TG and slightly elevated high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C). Honey consumed for 15 days decreased cholesterol (7%), LDL-C (1%), TG (2%), CRP (7%), homocysteine (6%), and PGL (6%), and increased HDL-C (2%). In patients with hypertriglyceridemia, artificial honey increased TG, while honey decreased TG. In patients with hyperlipidemia, artificial honey increased LDL-C, while honey decreased LDL-C. Honey decreased cholesterol (8%), LDL-C (11%), and CRP (75%) after 15 days. In diabetic patients, honey compared with dextrose caused a significantly lower rise of PGL. Elevation of PGL was greater after honey than after sucrose at 30 minutes, and was lower after honey than it was after sucrose at 60, 120, and 180 minutes. Honey caused greater elevation of insulin than sucrose did after 30, 120, and 180 minutes. Honey reduces blood lipids, homocysteine, and CRP in normal and hyperlipidemic subjects. Honey compared with dextrose and sucrose caused lower elevation of PGL in diabetics.

Drought effects on evapotransiration and subsurface water storage in the southern Sierra Nevada

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bales, R. C.; Goulden, M.; Hunsaker, C. T.; Conklin, M. H.; Hartsough, P. C.; O'Geen, T. T.; Hopmans, J. W.; Safeeq, M.

2015-12-01

Multi-year measurements of evapotranspiration (ET) at three elevations in the southern Sierra Nevada show the extent to which subsurface water storage in the regolith provides a buffer against multi-year dry periods. ET in a 2000-m elevation mixed-conifer forest showed a 24% decrease in ET in water-year 2014, the third dry year, as compared to the wet year of 2011. This decrease reflected reduced transpiration for the July to September period. Over half of the annual ET in both wet and dry years came from below the 1-m depth mapped soil, and with come coming from below the 2.5 m depth of our soil-moisture measurements. The ability of trees to access water from these depths does provide a 2-3 year buffer for ET, which also depends on forest density and the balance between perennial overstory and annual understory vegetation. An equally dense lower-elevation pine-oak forest (1160 m) showed nearly a 50% decrease in ET during the third year of drought, with significant visible effects on vegetation. While this lower elevation forest may have as much or more subsurface storage as does that at 2000-m elevation, the combination of lower precipitation as one goes down in elevation and very high forest density provides only a one-year buffer for ET in dry years. Regaining resiliency in this forest will only occur with significant reductions in biomass and commensurate lowering of ET. In a 400-m elevation oak savannah ET responds to annual precipitation, with essentially no multi-year buffer provided by subsurface storage.

Elevated androstenedione in young adult but not early adolescent prenatally androgenized female rats.

PubMed

Shah, Ami B; Nivar, Isaac; Speelman, Diana L

2018-01-01

Elevated testosterone (T) is routinely reported as a marker of hyperandrogenemia in rodent models for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). In women with PCOS, elevated serum androstenedione (A4) is associated with more severe phenotypes, including a positive correlation with serum T, DHEAS, free androgen index (FAI), LH, and LH/FSH ratio. Furthermore, A4, along with calculated free T and FAI, was identified as one of the best predictors of PCOS in adult women of all ages (18 to > 50 y). The objective of this study was to investigate serum A4 levels in early adolescent and young adult prenatally androgenized (PNA) female rats, a model for PCOS. Pregnant rats were injected with 5 mg T daily during gestational days 16-19 (PNA rats, experimental group) or an equal volume of vehicle (control group). Female offspring of both groups had tail vein blood drawn for serum analysis at 8 and 16 weeks of age. ELISAs were used to quantify serum A4 and T levels. Serum A4 and T were elevated in 16-week-old PNA rats compared to controls. There was no significant difference in either hormone at 8 weeks of age. The PNA rats demonstrated elevated serum A4 and T in young adulthood, as has been observed in women with PCOS, further validating this as a model for PCOS and underscoring the importance of serum A4 elevation as a parameter inherent to PCOS and a rodent model for the disorder. Significant A4 elevation develops between early adolescence and early adulthood in this PNA rat model.

Postoperative elevation in creatine kinase and its impact on renal function in patients undergoing complex partial nephrectomy.

PubMed

Sidana, Abhinav; Walton-Diaz, Annerleim; Truong, Hong; Siddiqui, M Minhaj; Miao, Ning; Shih, Johanna; Mannes, Andrew; Bratslavsky, Gennady; Linehan, W Marston; Metwalli, Adam R

2016-07-01

To identify the risk factors associated with development of postoperative elevation of creatine kinase (CK) and study its effect on renal function in patients who underwent complex multifocal partial nephrectomy (PN). Patients who underwent PN at National Cancer Institute between January 2007 and December 2012 were included in the study. Elevated serum CK was defined as >2000 U/L. Kidney function was assessed using serum creatinine and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Changes were reported as percent change from preoperative values and compared using the Wilcoxon test. Regression analysis was performed to identify the predictors of elevation in CK and decline in eGFR. From 407 total cases, 207 had adequate CK data for analysis. Median number of tumors removed was 3 (1-70). Median peak CK was 1458 (82-36,788). Forty-two percent developed CK elevation >2000 U/L. Factors associated with postoperative elevation of CK > 2000 were young age (p = 0.009), high BMI (p = 0.003) and operating room time (p < 0.001). Although CK > 2000 was associated with significantly greater decline in eGFR (37.4 vs. 20.3 %, p < 0.001) in immediate postoperative period, this change largely resolved to a much less clinically relevant (9.2 vs 3.3 %, p = 0.040) change after 3 months. On multivariate analysis, postoperative elevation in CK was not found to be an independent factor determining renal function at 3 months. In our cohort, a significant proportion of patients developed CK elevations >2000 U/L. While patients with elevated CK had more decline in eGFR in immediate postoperative period, postoperative elevations of CK did not appear to impact overall long-term renal function in patients undergoing PN.

Surface electromyography activity of the rectus abdominis, internal oblique, and external oblique muscles during forced expiration in healthy adults.

PubMed

Ito, Kenichi; Nonaka, Koji; Ogaya, Shinya; Ogi, Atsushi; Matsunaka, Chiaki; Horie, Jun

2016-06-01

We aimed to characterize rectus abdominis, internal oblique, and external oblique muscle activity in healthy adults under expiratory resistance using surface electromyography. We randomly assigned 42 healthy adult subjects to 3 groups: 30%, 20%, and 10% maximal expiratory intraoral pressure (PEmax). After measuring 100% PEmax and muscle activity during 100% PEmax, the activity and maximum voluntary contraction of each muscle during the assigned experimental condition were measured. At 100% PEmax, the external oblique (p<0.01) and internal oblique (p<0.01) showed significantly elevated activity compared with the rectus abdominis muscle. Furthermore, at 20% and 30% PEmax, the external oblique (p<0.05 and<0.01, respectively) and the internal oblique (p<0.05 and<0.01, respectively) showed significantly elevated activity compared with the rectus abdominis muscle. At 10% PEmax, no significant differences were observed in muscle activity. Although we observed no significant difference between 10% and 20% PEmax, activity during 30% PEmax was significantly greater than during 20% PEmax (external oblique: p<0.05; internal oblique: p<0.01). The abdominal oblique muscles are the most active during forced expiration. Moreover, 30% PEmax is the minimum intensity required to achieve significant, albeit very slight, muscle activity during expiratory resistance. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Elevational sensitivity in an Asian 'hotspot': moth diversity across elevational gradients in tropical, sub-tropical and sub-alpine China.

PubMed

Ashton, L A; Nakamura, A; Burwell, C J; Tang, Y; Cao, M; Whitaker, T; Sun, Z; Huang, H; Kitching, R L

2016-05-23

South-western China is widely acknowledged as a biodiversity 'hotspot': there are high levels of diversity and endemism, and many environments are under significant anthropogenic threats not least climate warming. Here, we explore diversity and compare response patterns of moth assemblages among three elevational gradients established within different climatic bioregions - tropical rain forest, sub-tropical evergreen broad-leaved forest and sub-alpine coniferous forest in Yunnan Province, China. We hypothesised that tropical assemblages would be more elevationally stratified than temperate assemblages, and tropical species would be more elevationally restricted than those in the temperate zone. Contrary to our hypothesis, the moth fauna was more sensitive to elevational differences within the temperate transect, followed by sub-tropical and tropical transects. Moths in the cooler and more seasonal temperate sub-alpine gradient showed stronger elevation-decay beta diversity patterns, and more species were restricted to particular elevational ranges. Our study suggests that moth assemblages are under threat from future climate change and sub-alpine rather than tropical faunas may be the most sensitive to climate change. These results improve our understanding of China's biodiversity and can be used to monitor future changes to herbivore assemblages in a 'hotspot' of biodiversity.

Elevational sensitivity in an Asian ‘hotspot’: moth diversity across elevational gradients in tropical, sub-tropical and sub-alpine China

PubMed Central

Ashton, L. A.; Nakamura, A.; Burwell, C. J.; Tang, Y.; Cao, M.; Whitaker, T.; Sun, Z.; Huang, H.; Kitching, R. L.

2016-01-01

South-western China is widely acknowledged as a biodiversity ‘hotspot’: there are high levels of diversity and endemism, and many environments are under significant anthropogenic threats not least climate warming. Here, we explore diversity and compare response patterns of moth assemblages among three elevational gradients established within different climatic bioregions - tropical rain forest, sub-tropical evergreen broad-leaved forest and sub-alpine coniferous forest in Yunnan Province, China. We hypothesised that tropical assemblages would be more elevationally stratified than temperate assemblages, and tropical species would be more elevationally restricted than those in the temperate zone. Contrary to our hypothesis, the moth fauna was more sensitive to elevational differences within the temperate transect, followed by sub-tropical and tropical transects. Moths in the cooler and more seasonal temperate sub-alpine gradient showed stronger elevation-decay beta diversity patterns, and more species were restricted to particular elevational ranges. Our study suggests that moth assemblages are under threat from future climate change and sub-alpine rather than tropical faunas may be the most sensitive to climate change. These results improve our understanding of China’s biodiversity and can be used to monitor future changes to herbivore assemblages in a ‘hotspot’ of biodiversity. PMID:27211989

Elevational sensitivity in an Asian ‘hotspot’: moth diversity across elevational gradients in tropical, sub-tropical and sub-alpine China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ashton, L. A.; Nakamura, A.; Burwell, C. J.; Tang, Y.; Cao, M.; Whitaker, T.; Sun, Z.; Huang, H.; Kitching, R. L.

2016-05-01

South-western China is widely acknowledged as a biodiversity ‘hotspot’: there are high levels of diversity and endemism, and many environments are under significant anthropogenic threats not least climate warming. Here, we explore diversity and compare response patterns of moth assemblages among three elevational gradients established within different climatic bioregions - tropical rain forest, sub-tropical evergreen broad-leaved forest and sub-alpine coniferous forest in Yunnan Province, China. We hypothesised that tropical assemblages would be more elevationally stratified than temperate assemblages, and tropical species would be more elevationally restricted than those in the temperate zone. Contrary to our hypothesis, the moth fauna was more sensitive to elevational differences within the temperate transect, followed by sub-tropical and tropical transects. Moths in the cooler and more seasonal temperate sub-alpine gradient showed stronger elevation-decay beta diversity patterns, and more species were restricted to particular elevational ranges. Our study suggests that moth assemblages are under threat from future climate change and sub-alpine rather than tropical faunas may be the most sensitive to climate change. These results improve our understanding of China’s biodiversity and can be used to monitor future changes to herbivore assemblages in a ‘hotspot’ of biodiversity.

Suicidality and Associated Risk Factors among Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Compared to Heterosexual Austrian Adults

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ploderl, Martin; Fartacek, Reinhold

2005-01-01

This is the first study in German-speaking countries to compare the suicidality of lesbian, gay, and bisexual adults (n = 358) with matched heterosexual adults (n = 267). The former had significantly elevated incidences of current suicide ideation (28% vs. 13%) and lifetime suicide attempts defined in three ways (14% vs. 1% to 10% vs. 2%),…

Interferon-gamma inducible protein-10 as a potential biomarker in localized scleroderma.

PubMed

Magee, Kelsey E; Kelsey, Christina E; Kurzinski, Katherine L; Ho, Jonhan; Mlakar, Logan R; Feghali-Bostwick, Carol A; Torok, Kathryn S

2013-01-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the presence and levels of interferon-gamma inducible protein-10 (IP-10) in the plasma and skin of pediatric localized scleroderma (LS) patients compared to those of healthy pediatric controls and to determine if IP-10 levels correlate to clinical disease activity measures. The presence of IP-10 in the plasma was analyzed using a Luminex panel in 69 pediatric patients with LS and compared to 71 healthy pediatric controls. Of these patients, five had available skin biopsy specimens with concurrent clinical and serological data during the active disease phase, which were used to analyze the presence and location of IP-10 in the skin by immunohistochemistry (IHC). IP-10 levels were significantly elevated in the plasma of LS patients compared to that of healthy controls and correlated to clinical disease activity measures in LS. Immunohistochemistry staining of IP-10 was present in the dermal infiltrate of LS patients and was similar to that found in psoriasis skin specimens, the positive disease control. Elevation of IP-10 levels in the plasma compared to those of healthy controls and the presence of IP-10 staining in the affected skin of LS patients indicates that IP-10 is a potential biomarker in LS. Furthermore, significant elevation of IP-10 in LS patients with active versus inactive disease and correlations between IP-10 levels and standardized disease outcome measures of activity in LS strongly suggest that IP-10 may be a biomarker for disease activity in LS.

Interferon-gamma inducible protein-10 as a potential biomarker in localized scleroderma

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Introduction The purpose of this study was to evaluate the presence and levels of interferon-gamma inducible protein-10 (IP-10) in the plasma and skin of pediatric localized scleroderma (LS) patients compared to those of healthy pediatric controls and to determine if IP-10 levels correlate to clinical disease activity measures. Methods The presence of IP-10 in the plasma was analyzed using a Luminex panel in 69 pediatric patients with LS and compared to 71 healthy pediatric controls. Of these patients, five had available skin biopsy specimens with concurrent clinical and serological data during the active disease phase, which were used to analyze the presence and location of IP-10 in the skin by immunohistochemistry (IHC). Results IP-10 levels were significantly elevated in the plasma of LS patients compared to that of healthy controls and correlated to clinical disease activity measures in LS. Immunohistochemistry staining of IP-10 was present in the dermal infiltrate of LS patients and was similar to that found in psoriasis skin specimens, the positive disease control. Conclusions Elevation of IP-10 levels in the plasma compared to those of healthy controls and the presence of IP-10 staining in the affected skin of LS patients indicates that IP-10 is a potential biomarker in LS. Furthermore, significant elevation of IP-10 in LS patients with active versus inactive disease and correlations between IP-10 levels and standardized disease outcome measures of activity in LS strongly suggest that IP-10 may be a biomarker for disease activity in LS. PMID:24499523

Pleiotropic effects of fenofibrate therapy on rats with hypertriglycemia.

PubMed

Sun, Bing; Xie, Yuan; Jiang, Jinfa; Wang, Yiping; Xu, Xiaolin; Zhao, Cuimei; Huang, Feifei

2015-04-14

Cardio-protective effect of fibrate therapy is controversial and current research is to evaluate the effect of fenofibrate therapy on rats with hypertriglycemia. Rats with hypertriglycemia were produced by 10% fructose administration (10 ml daily) for 4 weeks. After model has been successfully produced as reflected by increased triglyceride level, different doses of fenofibrate, namely low dose (50 mg/kg body weight) and high dose (100 mg/kg body weight), were orally prescribed for 2 weeks. At baseline, 4 weeks of fructose administration and 2 weeks of fenofibrate therapy, parameters of interest were evaluated and compared. At baseline, no significant differences of parameter were observed between groups. After 4 weeks of fructose prescription, triglyceride level increased in company with high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and apoprotein A1 (ApoA1) decreased. C-reactive protein (CRP) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were also elevated. Endothelial function was impaired as reflected by reduced nitric oxide (NO) production and elevated serum asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) level. All these changes were significant as compared to the control group (P<0.05), suggesting that short-term of triglyceride elevation could potently initiate atherosclerosis. With 2 weeks of fenofibrate therapy, in comparison to un-treated group, triglyceride level was significantly reduced in parallel with HDL-C and ApoA1 elevation. Inflammation and oxidation were also profoundly ameliorated as reflected by CRP and MDA reduction. Notably, NO production was enhanced in company with serum ADMA level decrease. Overall, these improvements manifested in a dose-dependent manner, which was supported by multivariate regression analysis showing that after adjusted to other variables, the dose of fenofibrate therapy remained significantly associated with NO production and serum ADMA level, with OR of 1.042 (high-dose versus low-dose, 95% CI 1.028-1.055, P<0.05). Fenofibrate therapy not only could reduce triglyceride level but also confer pleiotropic effects in terms of endothelium-protection and amelioration of inflammation and oxidation in a dose-dependent manner.

Progesterone protects normative anxiety-like responding among ovariectomized female mice that conditionally express the HIV-1 regulatory protein, Tat, in the CNS.

PubMed

Paris, Jason J; Fenwick, Jason; McLaughlin, Jay P

2014-05-01

Increased anxiety is co-morbid with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Actions of the neurotoxic HIV-1 regulatory protein, Tat, may contribute to affective dysfunction. We hypothesized that Tat expression would increase anxiety-like behavior of female GT-tg bigenic mice that express HIV-1 Tat protein in the brain in a doxycycline-dependent manner. Furthermore, given reports that HIV-induced anxiety may occur at lower rates among women, and that the neurotoxic effects of Tat are ameliorated by sex steroids in vitro, we hypothesized that 17β-estradiol and/or progesterone would ameliorate Tat-induced anxiety-like effects. Among naturally-cycling proestrous and diestrous mice, Tat-induction via 7days of doxycycline treatment significantly increased anxiety-like responding in an open field, elevated plus maze and a marble-burying task, compared to treatment with saline. Proestrous mice demonstrated less anxiety-like behavior than diestrous mice in the open field and elevated plus maze, but these effects did not significantly interact with Tat-induction. Among ovariectomized mice, doxycycline-induced Tat protein significantly increased anxiety-like behavior in an elevated plus maze and a marble burying task compared to saline-treated mice, but not an open field (where anxiety-like responding was already maximal). Co-administration of progesterone (4mg/kg), but not 17β-estradiol (0.09mg/kg), with doxycycline significantly ameliorated anxiety-like responding in the elevated plus maze and marble burying tasks. When administered together, 17β-estradiol partially antagonized the protective effects of progesterone on Tat-induced anxiety-like behavior. These findings support evidence of steroid-protection over HIV-1 proteins, and extend them by demonstrating the protective capacity of progesterone on Tat-induced anxiety-like behavior of ovariectomized female mice. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Urinary heavy metals in Hispanics 40–85 years old in Doña Ana County, New Mexico

PubMed Central

Adams, Scott V.; Barrick, Brian; Freney, Emily P.; Shafer, Martin M.; Song, Xiaoling; Vilchis, Hugo; Newcomb, Polly A.; Ulery, April

2017-01-01

As, Cd, Pb, and U exposure among older Hispanic adults residing in underserved communities in southern New Mexico was investigated. Personal information was obtained by standardized interview from 188 adults age 40–85y. Urinary metal concentrations were measured and compared to results from the National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey (NHANES). Urinary As and U in study participants significantly (P<0.05) exceeded NHANES reference values. Elevated urinary As concentration was significantly associated with older age, Latin American birthplace, clinic site, private well drinking water, higher self-rated health, and diabetes. Higher urinary Cd was significantly associated with older age, clinic site, female sex, agricultural work, and current cigarette smoking. No personal characteristics were significantly associated with urinary Pb or U. Our results suggest elevated levels of As and U in this population. PMID:26666397

Study of the effectiveness of several tree canopy types on roadside green belt in influencing the distribution of NO2 gas emitted from transportation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Desyana, R. D.; Sulistyantara, B.; Nasrullah, N.; Fatimah, I. S.

2017-03-01

Transportation is one significant factor which contributes to urban air pollution. One of the pollutants emitted from transportation which affect human’s health is NO2. Plants, especially trees, have high potential in reducing air pollutants from transportation through diffusion, absorbtion, adsorption and deposition. Purpose of this study was to analyze the effectiveness of several tree canopy types on roadside green belt in influencing distribution of NO2 gas emitted from transportation. The study conducted in three plots of tree canopy in Jagorawi Highway: Bungur (Lagerstroemia speciosa), Gmelina (Gmelina arborea) and Tanjung (Mimusops elengi). The tree canopy ability in absorbing pollutant is derived by comparing air quality on vegetated area with ambience air quality at control area (open field). Air sampling was conducted to measure NO2 concentration at elevation 1.5m, 5m and 10m at distance 0m, 10m and 30m, using Air Sampler Impinger. Concentration of NO2 was analyzed with Griess-Saltzman method. From this research, the result of ANOVA showed that tree plot (vegetated area) affected significantly to NO2 concentration. However the effect of distance from road and elevation was not significant. Among the plots, the highest NO2 concentration was found on Control plot (area without tree canopy), while the lowest NO2 concentration was found in Tanjung plot. Tanjung plot with round shape and high density canopy performed better in reducing NO2 than Bungur plot with round shape and medium density canopy, regardless the sampling elevation and distance. Gmelina plot performed the best in reducing horizontal distribution of NO2 concentration at elevation 1.5 and 5m, but the result at elevation 10m was not significant.

Elevated Plasma Levels of Soluble (Pro)Renin Receptor in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome in Parallel with the Disease Severity.

PubMed

Nishijima, Tsuguo; Tajima, Kazuki; Yamashiro, Yoshihiro; Hosokawa, Keisuke; Suwabe, Akira; Takahashi, Kazuhiro; Sakurai, Shigeru

2016-04-01

(Pro)renin receptor ((P)RR), a receptor for renin and prorenin, is implicated in the pathophysiology of diabetes mellitus, hypertension and their complications. Soluble (P)RR (s(P)RR) is composed of extracellular domain of (P)RR and thus exists in blood. We have reported that plasma concentrations of s(P)RR were elevated in male patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS). The aim of the present study was to clarify the difference in plasma s(P)RR concentrations between male and female OSAS patients. Plasma s(P)RR concentrations were studied in 289 subjects (206 males and 83 females) consisting of 259 OSAS patients and 30 non-OSAS control subjects. The 259 OSAS patients were classified into mild (5 ≤ apnea hypopnea index (AHI) < 15 events/h), moderate (15 ≤ AHI < 30), and severe OSAS (AHI ≥ 30). Plasma s(P)RR levels were significantly elevated in all three OSAS groups compared to non-OSAS control subjects (AHI < 5) in the entire cohort and male subjects, whereas in female subjects, the significant elevation was found only in severe OSAS. Plasma s(P)RR levels were significantly correlated with AHI in both sexes, with a higher r value found in male subjects (male r = 0.413, p < 0.0001; female r = 0.263, p < 0.05). Importantly, when OSAS patients (26 males and 15 females) with AHI ≥ 20 underwent continuous positive airway pressure treatment, plasma s(P)RR levels were significantly decreased. In conclusion, plasma s(P)RR levels are elevated in both male and female OSAS patients in parallel with the disease severity.

Transverse sinus stenosis in adult patients with Chiari malformation type I.

PubMed

Saindane, Amit M; Bruce, Beau B; Desai, Nilesh K; Roller, Lauren A; Newman, Nancy J; Biousse, Valérie

2014-10-01

Transverse sinus stenosis is an imaging finding very highly associated with elevated intracranial pressure (ICP). Patients with the Chiari I malformation may potentially have elevated ICP due to impairment of CSF flow at the foramen magnum. This study evaluated whether patients with Chiari I malformation have transverse sinus stenosis and other imaging findings indicative of elevated ICP. Thirty patients with Chiari I malformation treated surgically and 76 control subjects were identified retrospectively. All control subjects and all patients with Chiari I malformation (preoperatively) underwent standardized contrast-enhanced brain MRI including a contrast-enhanced 3D T1-weighted sequence from which curved reformats of the transverse sinuses were generated. Two different readers blinded to the diagnosis then independently evaluated these curved reformats for severity of transverse sinus stenosis. Orbital and skull-base findings previously described in association with elevated ICP were also evaluated. Frequency of MRI findings between the two groups was compared. Patients with Chiari I malformation had significantly greater frequency of unilateral or bilateral transverse sinus stenosis than did control subjects (p < 0.001). There was complete interreader agreement on presence or absence of transverse sinus stenosis by patient (κ = 1.0 [95% CI, 0.89-1.0]). Logistic regression analysis controlling for age, sex, and body mass index found that transverse sinus stenosis significantly predicted Chiari I malformation versus control status (odds ratio, 11.2 [95% CI, 2.1-59.0]; p = 0.004) but that no other features were significantly associated with the Chiari I malformation. Patients with Chiari I malformation who had transverse sinus stenosis had significantly greater pituitary flattening than did those without transverse sinus stenosis (p = 0.02). Patients with Chiari I malformation have higher likelihood of transverse sinus stenosis, which may reflect associated elevated ICP.

The Temporal Kinetics of Circulating Angiopoietin Levels in Children with Sepsis

PubMed Central

Giuliano, John S.; Tran, Kevin; Li, Fang-yong; Northrup, Veronika; Tala, Joana A.; Bhandari, Vineet

2013-01-01

Objective Capillary integrity continues to challenge critical care physicians worldwide when treating children with sepsis. Vascular growth factors, specifically angiopoietin (angpt)-1 and angpt-2, play opposing roles in capillary stabilization in septic patients, respectively. We aim to determine whether pediatric patients with severe sepsis/shock have persistently high angpt-2/1 ratios when compared to non-septic pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) patients over a 7-day period. Design Prospective, observational study. Patients were classified within 24h of admission into: non-systemic inflammatory response syndrome (non-SIRS), SIRS/sepsis, or severe sepsis/shock. Plasma levels of angpt-1 and angpt-2 were measured via ELISA. The angpt-2/1 ratio was graphically plotted and determined whether patients fell into ‘constant’ or ‘variable’ patterns. Setting Tertiary care center PICU. Patients Critically ill pediatric patients with varying sepsis severity. Interventions None Measurements and Main Results Forty five patients were enrolled (n=9 non-SIRS, n=19 SIRS/sepsis, and n=17 severe sepsis/shock). Gender, age, weight, comorbidities and PICU length of stay were not significantly different between the groups. Admission pediatric risk stratification scores and net fluid ins/outs were significantly elevated in the severe sepsis/shock group when compared (all p<0.05). Admission angpt-2 levels and angpt-2/1 ratios were significantly different in the severe sepsis/shock group when all groups were compared (both p<0.05). Additionally, the latter were significantly elevated in the severe sepsis/shock group at multiple time points (all p≤0.05) with the peak occurring on day 2 of illness. In a separate analysis, 32% of SIRS/sepsis and 82% of severe sepsis/shock had ‘variable’ angpt-2/1 ratio patterns compared to none in the control group (p<0.001). Conclusions Pediatric patients with severe sepsis and septic shock possess significantly elevated angpt-2/1 ratios during their first 3 days of illness which peak at day 2 of illness. A subset of these patients demonstrated ‘variable’ angpt-2/1 ratio patterns. PMID:24141659

Elevational Gradient of Vascular Plant Species Richness and Endemism in Crete – The Effect of Post-Isolation Mountain Uplift on a Continental Island System

PubMed Central

Trigas, Panayiotis; Panitsa, Maria; Tsiftsis, Spyros

2013-01-01

Understanding diversity patterns along environmental gradients and their underlying mechanisms is a major topic in current biodiversity research. In this study, we investigate for the first time elevational patterns of vascular plant species richness and endemism on a long-isolated continental island (Crete) that has experienced extensive post-isolation mountain uplift. We used all available data on distribution and elevational ranges of the Cretan plants to interpolate their presence between minimum and maximum elevations in 100-m elevational intervals, along the entire elevational gradient of Crete (0–2400 m). We evaluate the influence of elevation, area, mid-domain effect, elevational Rapoport effect and the post-isolation mountain uplift on plant species richness and endemism elevational patterns. Furthermore, we test the influence of the island condition and the post-isolation mountain uplift to the elevational range sizes of the Cretan plants, using the Peloponnese as a continental control area. Total species richness monotonically decreases with increasing elevation, while endemic species richness has a unimodal response to elevation showing a peak at mid-elevation intervals. Area alone explains a significant amount of variation in species richness along the elevational gradient. Mid-domain effect is not the underlying mechanism of the elevational gradient of plant species richness in Crete, and Rapoport's rule only partly explains the observed patterns. Our results are largely congruent with the post-isolation uplift of the Cretan mountains and their colonization mainly by the available lowland vascular plant species, as high-elevation specialists are almost lacking from the Cretan flora. The increase in the proportion of Cretan endemics with increasing elevation can only be regarded as a result of diversification processes towards Cretan mountains (especially mid-elevation areas), supported by elevation-driven ecological isolation. Cretan plants have experienced elevational range expansion compared to the continental control area, as a result of ecological release triggered by increased species impoverishment with increasing elevation. PMID:23555031

Comparison of the Protective Effects of Melatonin and Silymarin Against Gentamicin-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Rats.

PubMed

Ghaznavi, Habib; Mehrzadi, Saeed; Dormanesh, Banafshe; Tabatabaei, Seyyed Mohammad Taghi Hosseini; Vahedi, Habib; Hosseinzadeh, Azam; Pazoki-Toroudi, HamidReza; Rashidian, Amir

2016-10-01

This study compared the possible protective effects of silymarin and melatonin against gentamicin (GEN)-induced nephrotoxicity in rats. Rats were allocated to 6 groups: Group I, control group; Groups II and III, administered with silymarin or melatonin; Group IV, injected with GEN; and Groups V and VI, administered with silymarin or melatonin, and then injected with GEN. Compared with the rats in the control group, all rats injected with GEN significantly presented elevated levels of serum creatinine and urea that was accompanied by an increase in relative kidney weight, increase in renal reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and reduction in renal glutathione (GSH) level and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. Silymarin and melatonin pretreatment significantly lowered the elevated serum urea and creatinine concentration, kidney weight, and renal ROS and MDA levels. In addition, silymarin and melatonin significantly enhanced renal GSH level and SOD activity. This study indicates that silymarin and melatonin can attenuate renal injury in rats treated with GEN possibly by reducing the ROS level. © The Author(s) 2015.

Altered ventral neck muscle deformation for individuals with whiplash associated disorder compared to healthy controls - a case-control ultrasound study.

PubMed

Peterson, Gunnel; Dedering, Åsa; Andersson, Erika; Nilsson, David; Trygg, Johan; Peolsson, Michael; Wallman, Thorne; Peolsson, Anneli

2015-04-01

Previous studies have shown altered neck muscle function in individuals with chronic whiplash associated disorder (WAD). However, we lack real-time investigations with non-invasive methods that can distinguish between the different ventral neck muscle layers. This study investigated deformations and deformation rates in the sternocleidomastoid (SCM), longus capitis (Lcap), and longus colli (Lco) muscles with real-time ultrasonography. Twenty-six individuals with WAD were compared with 26 controls, matched for age and sex. Ultrasound imaging of the SCM, Lcap, and Lco were recorded during 10 repetitive arm elevations. The first and tenth arm elevations were post-process analyzed with speckle tracking. There were few significant differences in the deformations or deformation rates in the SCM, Lcap, and Lco between the WAD and control group. In controls, deformations and deformation rates showed linear positive relationships between SCM/Lcap, SCM/Lco, and Lcap/Lco which increased from the first arm elevation (R(2) = 0.14-0.70); to the tenth arm elevation (R(2) = 0.51-0.71). The WAD group showed similar or weaker linear relationship (R(2) < 0.19) during the tenth compared to the first (R(2) < 0.44) arm elevation except for deformations in Lcap/Lco (R(2) = 0.13-0.57). This result indicated that deformations and deformation rates in one muscle were correlated by similar deformations and deformation rates in other neck muscles in the control group, but this interplay between muscles was not found in the WAD group. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Exploring the Role of Genetic Algorithms and Artificial Neural Networks for Interpolation of Elevation in Geoinformation Models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bagheri, H.; Sadjadi, S. Y.; Sadeghian, S.

2013-09-01

One of the most significant tools to study many engineering projects is three-dimensional modelling of the Earth that has many applications in the Geospatial Information System (GIS), e.g. creating Digital Train Modelling (DTM). DTM has numerous applications in the fields of sciences, engineering, design and various project administrations. One of the most significant events in DTM technique is the interpolation of elevation to create a continuous surface. There are several methods for interpolation, which have shown many results due to the environmental conditions and input data. The usual methods of interpolation used in this study along with Genetic Algorithms (GA) have been optimised and consisting of polynomials and the Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW) method. In this paper, the Artificial Intelligent (AI) techniques such as GA and Neural Networks (NN) are used on the samples to optimise the interpolation methods and production of Digital Elevation Model (DEM). The aim of entire interpolation methods is to evaluate the accuracy of interpolation methods. Universal interpolation occurs in the entire neighbouring regions can be suggested for larger regions, which can be divided into smaller regions. The results obtained from applying GA and ANN individually, will be compared with the typical method of interpolation for creation of elevations. The resulting had performed that AI methods have a high potential in the interpolation of elevations. Using artificial networks algorithms for the interpolation and optimisation based on the IDW method with GA could be estimated the high precise elevations.

Hepatoprotective and antioxidant activity of Phaseolus trilobus, Ait on bile duct ligation induced liver fibrosis in rats.

PubMed

Fursule, R A; Patil, S D

2010-06-16

Phaseolus trilobus Ait (Fabaceae) is extensively used by tribal people of Nandurbar district (Maharashtra, India) in the treatment of Jaundice and other liver disorders. of the present study was to assess the medicinal claim of Phaseolus trilobus as hepatoprotective and antioxidant. The hepatoprotective activity of methanol and aqueous extract of Phaseolus trilobus was evaluated by bile duct ligation induced liver fibrosis and antioxidant activity was evaluated using in vitro and in vivo antioxidant models viz anti-lipid peroxidation assay, super oxide radical scavenging assay and glutathione estimation in liver. Liver function tests were carried out to detect hepatoprotective activity, which was further supported by histopathological examination. Methanol and aqueous extracts of Phaseolus trilobus reduced elevated level of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), bilirubin and hydroxyproline significantly (p<0.01) in bile duct ligated Wistar rats, proving hepatoprotective activity comparable with Silymarin. Both the extracts were found to reduce the elevated levels of serum thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) and elevate superoxide scavenging radical activity proving antioxidant activity comparable with ascorbic acid. The reduced level of glutathione was found to be elevated in liver proving antioxidant activity comparable with Silymarin. Phaseolus trilobus posses hepatoprotective property and is effective in oxidative stress induced cholestatic hepatic injury. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

[Metabolism of serotonin in autism in children].

PubMed

Bursztejn, C; Ferrari, P; Dreux, C; Braconnier, A; Lancrenon, S

1988-01-01

In this controlled study of 22 autistic children and 22 normal controls matched for age and sex, the frequency of hyperserotonemia in infantile autism was confirmed. Platelet serotonin was elevated in patients. Comparative to controls, serotonin was also high in urine of autistic patients, while, on the contrary there was no difference for the urinary excretion of 5-HIAA. No difference was observed either for serotonin uptake and efflux or for MAO activity, in isolated platelets. The elevation of plasma free tryptophan - significant only with the Kolmogorov Smirnov test - suggests that 5-HT biosynthesis might be enhanced. In the group of patient reported in this study, disorders of serotonin metabolism are associated with disturbances of platelet catecholamines, and also with elevated immunoglobulins and enhanced cellular immunity reactions.

Evaluation of neuroprotective, anticonvulsant, sedative and anxiolytic activity of citicoline in rats.

PubMed

Abdolmaleki, Arash; Moghimi, Ali; Ghayour, Mohammad B; Rassouli, Morteza B

2016-10-15

Citicoline (cytidine-5'-diphosphocholine) is a neuroprotective agent that is administered following ischemic and traumatic brain injuries. There is little information about the antiseizure and anxiolytic effects of citicoline, which are therefore addressed in the present study. For evaluating the anticonvulsant effect of citicoline in the pentylentetrazole seizure model, a single intraperitoneal dose of citicoline was administered at 50, 100 or 150mg/kg. Sedative and anxiolytic effects of citicoline were examined via elevated plus maze and pentobarbital induced sleep tests. Results show that citicoline at the doses of 100 and 150mg/kg significantly delayed the latent period compared with the control (P<0.05). Citicoline at the doses of 100 and 150mg/kg significantly decreased total locomotion compared with the control (P<0.05). Additionally, citicoline at the doses of 100 and 150mg/kg significantly increased both percentage of entry and time spent in the open arms in the elevated plus maze test (P<0.05). The pentobarbital induced sleep test showed that citicoline significantly reduced the latency to sleep (P<0.05). Our results suggest that acute administration of citicoline has anticonvulsant activity and sedative effect. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Noninvasive assessment of hepatic sinusoidal obstructive syndrome using acoustic radiation force impulse elastography imaging: A proof-of-concept study in rat models.

PubMed

Park, So Hyun; Lee, Seung Soo; Sung, Ji-Youn; Na, Kiyong; Kim, Hyoung Jung; Kim, So Yeon; Park, Beom Jin; Byun, Jae Ho

2018-05-01

To determine the feasibility of acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) elastography in the evaluation of hepatic sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS) in rat models. Rat SOS models of various severities were created by monocrotaline gavage (n = 40) or by intraperitoneal injection of 5-fluorouracil, leucovorin and oxaliplatin (FOLFOX) (n = 16). Liver shear-wave velocity (SWV) was measured using ARFI elastography. Liver samples were analysed for the SOS score, steatosis, lobular inflammation and fibrosis. The liver SWV was significantly elevated in the SOS models (1.29-2.24 m/s) compared with that of the matched control rats (1.01-1.09; p≤.09; veFor seven FOLFOX-treated rats which were longitudinally followed-up, the liver SWV significantly increased at 7 weeks (1.32±0.13 m/s) compared with the baseline (1.08±0.1 m/s, p=.015) and then significantly declined after a 2-week, treatment-free period (1.15±0.13 m/s; p=.048). Multivariate analysis revealed that the SOS score (p<.001) and lobular inflammation (p=.044) were independently correlated with the liver SWV. Liver SWV is elevated in SOS in proportion to the degree of sinusoidal injury and lobular inflammation in rat SOS models. ARFI elastography has potential as an examination for diagnosis, severity assessment and follow-up of SOS. • Liver SWV using ARFI elastography was significantly elevated in SOS rat. • Sinusoidal injury and lobular inflammation grades had correlation with liver SWV. • ARFI elastography has potential for diagnosis, severity assessment, and follow-up of SOS.

Functional impairment of the auditory pathway after perinatal asphyxia and the short-term effect of perinatal propofol anesthesia in lambs.

PubMed

Smit, Adriana L; Seehase, Matthias; Stokroos, Robert J; Jellema, Reint K; Felipe, Lilian; Chenault, Michelene N; Anteunis, Lucien J C; Kremer, Bernd; Kramer, Boris W

2013-07-01

Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is a common feature in the postasphyxial syndrome in newborns. Several anesthetic drugs have been proposed to attenuate secondary neuronal injury elicited by hypoxia-ischemia. We hypothesized that propofol anesthesia reduces auditory impairment after perinatal asphyxia in comparison with isoflurane. Twenty-three pregnant ewes were randomized to propofol or isoflurane anesthesia and sedation. The lambs underwent in utero umbilical cord occlusion (isoflurane n = 5; propofol n = 7) and were compared with sham-treated animals (isoflurane n = 5; propofol n = 6) at a gestational age of 133 d. For 8 h after delivery by cesarean section, repeated auditory brainstem responses (ABRs) were recorded to obtain hearing thresholds, peak amplitudes, latencies, and interpeak latencies. Significantly elevated mean thresholds, diminished amplitudes, and elevated latencies were observed in the asphyxia group relative to the control group through the observation period. Comparison of anesthetic treatment in the asphyxia group revealed a significantly lower elevation in threshold and less impairment in the ABR amplitudes and latencies during propofol anesthesia as compared with isoflurane anesthesia. Our results support the hypothesis that anesthesia with propofol has a preventive effect on the functional changes to the auditory pathway in the event of perinatal asphyxia.

Elevated red blood cell 2,3-diphosphoglycerate levels in black blood donors.

PubMed

Wallas, C H

1978-01-01

Mean levels of 2,3-diphosphoglycerate (DPG) were significantly increased in erythrocytes (RBC) from 43 nonanemic black blood donors (4.80 +/- 0.06 micromoles/l RBC) compared with 22 white donors 4.47 +/- 0.08 micromoles/l RBCs from eight of the 12 black donors with DPG levels greater than 5 micromoles/l RBC. Although a potentially hemolytic disorder could be defined in four (AS hemoglobin, beta-Thalassemia minor, G6PD deficiency), reticulocyte counts were normal. However, when RBCs from the subgroup were compared to RBCs from an additional 25 unselected white donors, the following suggested an abnormally large population of young RBCs in the subgroup: 1) normal or elevated RBC-ATP with normal serum phosphate level; 2) significantly increased activities of RBC age-dependent enzymes hexokinase (p less than 0.02), pyruvate kinase (p less than 0.05), and glutamicoxaloacetic transaminase (p less than 0.01), with normal activity of phosphoglycerate kinase, an age-independent enzyme; 3) decreased dense (older) RBCs as determined by sedimentation in phthalate esters. Since DPG is increased in young RBCs and falls as the RBC ages, loss of older relatively DPG depleted RBCs due to shortened survival could account for the elevated DPG levels seen in the subgroup.

The cingulo-opercular network provides word-recognition benefit.

PubMed

Vaden, Kenneth I; Kuchinsky, Stefanie E; Cute, Stephanie L; Ahlstrom, Jayne B; Dubno, Judy R; Eckert, Mark A

2013-11-27

Recognizing speech in difficult listening conditions requires considerable focus of attention that is often demonstrated by elevated activity in putative attention systems, including the cingulo-opercular network. We tested the prediction that elevated cingulo-opercular activity provides word-recognition benefit on a subsequent trial. Eighteen healthy, normal-hearing adults (10 females; aged 20-38 years) performed word recognition (120 trials) in multi-talker babble at +3 and +10 dB signal-to-noise ratios during a sparse sampling functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) experiment. Blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) contrast was elevated in the anterior cingulate cortex, anterior insula, and frontal operculum in response to poorer speech intelligibility and response errors. These brain regions exhibited significantly greater correlated activity during word recognition compared with rest, supporting the premise that word-recognition demands increased the coherence of cingulo-opercular network activity. Consistent with an adaptive control network explanation, general linear mixed model analyses demonstrated that increased magnitude and extent of cingulo-opercular network activity was significantly associated with correct word recognition on subsequent trials. These results indicate that elevated cingulo-opercular network activity is not simply a reflection of poor performance or error but also supports word recognition in difficult listening conditions.

Elevated Serum Levels of the Antiapoptotic Protein Decoy-Receptor 3 Are Associated with Advanced Liver Disease.

PubMed

Bamias, Giorgos; Gizis, Michalis; Delladetsima, Ioanna; Laoudi, Eyfrosyni; Siakavellas, Spyros I; Koutsounas, Ioannis; Kaltsa, Garyfallia; Vlachogiannakos, John; Vafiadis-Zouboulis, Irene; Daikos, George L; Papatheodoridis, George V; Ladas, Spiros D

2016-01-01

Background. Decoy-receptor 3 (DcR3) exerts antiapoptotic and immunomodulatory function and is overexpressed in neoplastic and inflammatory conditions. Serum DcR3 (sDcR3) levels during the chronic hepatitis/cirrhosis/hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) sequence have not been explored. Objective. To assess the levels and significance of sDcR3 protein in various stages of chronic liver disease. Methods. We compared sDcR3 levels between healthy controls and patients with chronic viral hepatitis (CVH), decompensated cirrhosis (DC), and HCC. Correlations between sDcR3 levels and various patient- and disease-related factors were analyzed. Results. sDcR3 levels were significantly higher in patients with CVH than in controls (P < 0.01). sDcR3 levels were elevated in DC and HCC, being significantly higher compared not only to controls (P < 0.001 for both) but to CVH patients as well (P < 0.001 for both). In addition, DcR3 protein was detected in large quantities in the ascitic fluid of cirrhotics. In patients with CVH, sDcR3 significantly correlated to fibrosis severity, as estimated by Ishak score (P = 0.019) or by liver stiffness measured with elastography (Spearman r = 0.698, P < 0.001). In cirrhotic patients, significant positive correlations were observed between sDcR3 levels and markers of severity of hepatic impairment, including MELD score (r = 0.653, P < 0.001). Conclusions. Circulating levels of DcR3 are elevated during chronic liver disease and correlate with severity of liver damage. sDcR3 may serve as marker for liver fibrosis severity and progression to end-stage liver disease.

Uric Acid in Pregnancy: New Concepts.

PubMed

Moreno Santillan, Armando Alberto; Briones Garduño, Jesus Carlos; Diaz de Leon Ponce, Manuel Antonio

2018-01-01

The relationship between hyperuricemia and hypertensive disorders is well established; however, until today, the role of uric acid in the clinical course of severe preeclampsia has not been elucidated. Some recent studies suggest that at the time of presentation, subjects with severe preeclampsia frequently have significantly elevated serum uric acid levels, and that the degree of elevation correlates with the severity of the maternal syndrome and fetal morbimortality. In this chapter, we present our workgroup experience. In 2016, we designed a prospective, cross-sectional comparative study. A sample of 200 patients - 100 with severe preeclampsia and 100 with normotensive pregnancy - was obtained. Plasmatic uric acid levels were recorded in units of mg/dL as clinical variables and as laboratory and fetal growth data. We considered uric acid equal to or more than 6.0 mg/dL as the elevated level. To relate the significance of elevated uric acid levels with variables, chi-square tests and Mann-Whitney U test were applied. Any p value equal or <0.05 was accepted as significant. We found significant difference (p = 0.05) between serum uric acid levels among both groups. In comparison with the healthy patients, patients with severe preeclampsia and uric acid greater than 6 mg/dl presented significant differences in relation to fetal complications and maternal laboratory and clinical variables. Our conclusion is that values equal to or greater than 6 mg/dL of serum uric acid in patients with severe preeclampsia may be a valuable biomarker for preeclampsia and an association with the presence of adverse fetal and maternal effects. © 2018 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Host suitability of Phaseolus lunata for Trichoplusia ni (lepidoptera: noctuidae) in controlled carbon dioxide atmospheres

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

Osbrink, W.L.A.; Trumble, J.T.; Wagner, R.E.

1987-06-01

Elevated atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO/sub 2/) levels of 1000 parts per million (ppm) significantly increased consumption of foliage by Trichoplusia ni (Huebner) and significantly enhanced growth of Phaseolus lunata L. when compared with ambient levels of 340 ppm. Mean pupal weight was less under treatments with elevated atmospheric CO/sub 2/ under a high fertilization regime, but larval survival and percent nitrogen content of pupae were not affected by level of CO/sub 2/ treatments at high, medium, or low fertilizer rates. Regardless of CO/sub 2/ concentration, larval survival and pupal weight were reduced in absence of fertilizer. Nitrogen and protein consumptionmore » increased with fertilization rate. Because percent leaf area of plants consumed by T. ni larvae was not affected by CO/sub 2/ concentration, this study suggests that increased plant growth resulting from elevated atmospheric CO/sub 2/ may benefit the plant proportionately more than the insect.« less

The Enhancement of Water Ice Content in the Local Area Northeast of Arcadia Planitia: Evidence from Neutron Data from HEND (Mars Odyssey) and Elevation from MOLA (MGS)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sanin, A. B.; Mitrofanov, I. G.; Kozyrev, A. S.; Litvak, M. L.; Tretyakov, V.; Smith, D. E.; Zuber, M. T.; Boynton, W.; Saunders, R. S.

2003-01-01

The first year of neutron mapping measurements from the Mars Odyssey spacecraft revealed enormous hydrogen-rich regions in the southern and northern hemispheres of the Martian crust that imply significant amounts of near surface water ice. The hydrogen-rich areas of the southern and northern regions appear generally comparable in spatial extent and water ice content. This observation is interesting in light of topography measured by the Mars Orbiter Laser Altimeter (MOLA) on the Mars Global Surveyor (MGS) spacecraft, which shows a significant difference in elevation between northern lowlands and southern highlands that could imply a difference in seasonal CO2 condensation. In this study we correlate the high energy neutron flux observed by HEND (Mars Odyssey) and surface elevation measured by MOLA in order to interpret the seasonal change in epithermal neutron flux in terms near-surface water ice content.

Impact of reactive oxygen species on antioxidant capacity of male reproductive system.

PubMed

Riaz, Muhammad; Mahmood, Zahed; Shahid, Muhammad; Saeed, M Usman Qamar; Tahir, Imtiaz Mahmood; Shah, Sm Ali; Munir, Naveed; El-Ghorab, Ahmed

2016-09-01

The present research work was aimed to study the mutual interaction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and basal cells antioxidant capacity in the male reproductive system and to further establish the association between selected heavy metals and stress markers. Total oxidant status (TOS) and total antioxidant status (TAS) of serum and seminal plasma were determined by automated photometric methods. The concentrations of Selenium (Se), Lead (Pb), and Cadmium (Cd) were determined by using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The TOS was increased significantly (P <0.05) in seminal plasma as well as in the serum of the infertile group when compared with the fertile group. On the other hand, the TAS of the infertile group was found to be noticeably decreased (P <0.05) when compared with the TAS of the fertile group. Among the heavy metals, a noticeably lower concentration of Se was detected in the infertile group whereas markedly elevated levels of Cd and Pb were observed in the infertile group compared with the fertile group. Among the infertile group a significant inverse correlation (r = -0.521, P <0.05) was observed between Se and TOS and between Cd and Pb (r = -0.407, P <0.05). Contrarily among the infertile group a considerable positive relationship was established between Se and TAS (r = 0.507, P <0.05). It was concluded that the oxidant stress reduces the antioxidant activity in infertile men by elevating the production of ROS. A lower concentration of Se and elevated levels of Pb and Cd explain the individual's exposure to these heavy metals. The study also revealed that the heavy metal toxicity contributes significantly to male infertility. © The Author(s) 2015.

Corneal thickness and elevation measurements using swept-source optical coherence tomography and slit scanning topography in normal and keratoconic eyes.

PubMed

Jhanji, Vishal; Yang, Bingzhi; Yu, Marco; Ye, Cong; Leung, Christopher K S

2013-11-01

To compare corneal thickness and corneal elevation using swept source optical coherence tomography and slit scanning topography. Prospective study. 41 normal and 46 keratoconus subjects. All eyes were imaged using swept source optical coherence tomography and slit scanning tomography during the same visit. Mean corneal thickness and best-fit sphere measurements were compared between the instruments. Agreement of measurements between swept source optical coherence tomography and scanning slit topography was analyzed. Intra-rater reproducibility coefficient and intraclass correlation coefficient were evaluated. In normal eyes, central corneal thickness measured by swept source optical coherence tomography was thinner compared with slit scanning topography (p < 0.0001) and ultrasound pachymetry (p = < .0001). Ultrasound pachymetry readings had better 95% limits of agreement with swept source optical coherence tomography than slit scanning topography. In keratoconus eyes, central corneal thickness was thinner on swept source optical coherence tomography than slit scanning topography (p = 0.081) and ultrasound pachymetry (p = 0.001). There were significant differences between thinnest corneal thickness, and, anterior and posterior best-fit sphere measurements between both instruments (p < 0.05 for all). Overall, reproducibility coefficients and intraclass correlation coefficients were significantly better with swept source optical coherence tomography for measurement of central corneal thickness, anterior best-fit sphere and, posterior best-fit sphere (all p < 0.001). Corneal thickness and elevation measurements were significantly different between swept source optical coherence tomography and slit scanning topography. With better reproducibility coefficients and intraclass correlation coefficients, swept source optical coherence tomography may provide a reliable alternative for measurement of corneal parameters. © 2013 The Authors. Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology © 2013 Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists.

Elevated Blood Lead Levels of Children in Guiyu, an Electronic Waste Recycling Town in China

PubMed Central

Huo, Xia; Peng, Lin; Xu, Xijin; Zheng, Liangkai; Qiu, Bo; Qi, Zongli; Zhang, Bao; Han, Dai; Piao, Zhongxian

2007-01-01

Background Electronic waste (e-waste) recycling has remained primitive in Guiyu, China, and thus may contribute to the elevation of blood lead levels (BLLs) in children living in the local environment. Objectives We compared the BLLs in children living in the e-waste recycling town of Guiyu with those living in the neighboring town of Chendian. Methods We observed the processing of e-waste recycling in Guiyu and studied BLLs in a cluster sample of 226 children < 6 years of age who lived in Guiyu and Chendian. BLLs were determined with atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Hemoglobin (Hgb) and physical indexes (height and weight, head and chest circumferences) were also measured. Results BLLs in 165 children of Guiyu ranged from 4.40 to 32.67 μg/dL with a mean of 15.3 μg/dL, whereas BLLs in 61 children of Chendian were from 4.09 to 23.10 μg/dL with a mean of 9.94 μg/dL. Statistical analyses showed that children living in Guiyu had significantly higher BLLs compared with those living in Chendian (p < 0.01). Of children in Guiyu, 81.8% (135 of 165) had BLLs > 10 μg/dL, compared with 37.7% of children (23 of 61) in Chendian (p < 0.01). In addition, we observed a significant increasing trend in BLLs with increasing age in Guiyu (p < 0.01). It appeared that there was correlation between the BLLs in children and numbers of e-waste workshops. However, no significant difference in Hgb level or physical indexes was found between the two towns. Conclusions The primitive e-waste recycling activities may contribute to the elevated BLLs in children living in Guiyu. PMID:17637931

Is red cell distribution width a novel biomarker of breast cancer activity? Data from a pilot study.

PubMed

Seretis, Charalampos; Seretis, Fotios; Lagoudianakis, Emmanouil; Gemenetzis, George; Salemis, Nikolaos S

2013-04-01

Red cell distribution width (RDW) is a parameter of the standard full blood count tests, measuring the size variability of erythrocytes. Recently, its elevation has been proven to reliably reflect the extent systematic inflammation, mainly in cardiometabolic diseases. Up to date, its association with solid malignancies has been scarcely investigated. We performed a retrospective study, in order to examine if RDW values comparing elevation is correlated with the histopathological parameters of breast cancer (tumor size, grade, lymphatic spread, overexpression of hormonal receptors and HER2 protein), as well as to assess the existence of any differences in RDW comparing two age-matched groups of patients with benign and malignant breast lesions respectively. RDW was significantly higher in patients with breast cancer, when compared to the enrolled patients with fibroadenomas. Moreover, in the breast cancer group, RDW elevation was significantly correlated with larger primary tumors, higher number of infiltrated axillary lymph nodes and HER2 overexpression, while it was inversely associated with the tumor grade. Our pilot study demonstrated tha Red cell distribution width may be a novel biomarker of the activity of breast cancer. Although our preliminary findings need to be evaluated by studies with larger samples of patients, based on commonly accepted pathophysiological principles, we presume that they will be applicable not only in breast cancer, but also in other types of solid cancers, providing a simple and cost-effective biomarker of cancer surveillance.

Is Red Cell Distribution Width a Novel Biomarker of Breast Cancer Activity? Data From a Pilot Study

PubMed Central

Seretis, Charalampos; Seretis, Fotios; Lagoudianakis, Emmanouil; Gemenetzis, George; Salemis, Nikolaos S.

2013-01-01

Background Red cell distribution width (RDW) is a parameter of the standard full blood count tests, measuring the size variability of erythrocytes. Recently, its elevation has been proven to reliably reflect the extent systematic inflammation, mainly in cardiometabolic diseases. Up to date, its association with solid malignancies has been scarcely investigated. Methods We performed a retrospective study, in order to examine if RDW values comparing elevation is correlated with the histopathological parameters of breast cancer (tumor size, grade, lymphatic spread, overexpression of hormonal receptors and HER2 protein), as well as to assess the existence of any differences in RDW comparing two age-matched groups of patients with benign and malignant breast lesions respectively. Results RDW was significantly higher in patients with breast cancer, when compared to the enrolled patients with fibroadenomas. Moreover, in the breast cancer group, RDW elevation was significantly correlated with larger primary tumors, higher number of infiltrated axillary lymph nodes and HER2 overexpression, while it was inversely associated with the tumor grade. Conclusions Our pilot study demonstrated tha Red cell distribution width may be a novel biomarker of the activity of breast cancer. Although our preliminary findings need to be evaluated by studies with larger samples of patients, based on commonly accepted pathophysiological principles, we presume that they will be applicable not only in breast cancer, but also in other types of solid cancers, providing a simple and cost-effective biomarker of cancer surveillance. PMID:23518817

Exploring online communication about cigarette smoking among Twitter users who self-identify as having schizophrenia

PubMed Central

Hswen, Yulin; Naslund, John A.; Chandrashekar, Pooja; Siegel, Robert; Brownstein, John S.; Hawkins, Jared B.

2018-01-01

Novel approaches are needed to address elevated tobacco use among people with schizophrenia. This exploratory study examined the frequency, timing, and type of communication about tobacco-related content on Twitter among users who self-identify as having schizophrenia compared with users from the general population. Over a 200-day period from January to July 2016, Twitter users who self-identify as having a schizophrenia spectrum disorder (n = 203) and a randomly selected group of general population control users (n = 173) posted 1,544,122 tweets. Communication frequency did not differ between groups. Tweets containing tobacco-related keywords were extracted. Twitter users with schizophrenia posted significantly more tweets containing any tobacco-related terms (mean = 3.74; SD = 16.3) compared with control users (mean = 0.82; SD = 1.8). A significantly greater proportion of Twitter users with schizophrenia (45%; n = 92) posted tweets containing any tobacco terms compared with control users (30%; n = 52). Schizophrenia users showed significantly greater odds of tweeting about tobacco compared with control users (OR = 1.99; 95% CI 1.29–3.07). These findings suggest that online communication about tobacco may parallel real world trends of elevated tobacco use observed among people with schizophrenia. By showing that Twitter users who self-identify as having schizophrenia discuss tobacco-related content online, popular social media could inform smoking cessation efforts targeting this at-risk group. PMID:28841509

Increased KPI containing amyloid precursor protein in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis brains.

PubMed

Beilin, Orit; Karussis, Dimitrios M; Korczyn, Amos D; Gurwitz, David; Aronovich, Ramona; Mizrachi-Kol, Rachel; Chapman, Joab

2007-04-16

Amyloid precursor protein can be translated from three alternatively spliced mRNAs. We measured levels of amyloid precursor protein isoforms containing the Kunitz protease inhibitor domain (KPIAPP), and amyloid precursor protein without the Kunitz protease inhibitor domain (KPIAPP) in brain homogenates of acute experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis mice. At the preclinical phase of the disease, both KPIAPP and KPIAPP levels were significantly higher in homogenates from brains of autoimmune encephalomyelitis mice, whereas at the acute phase of the disease only KPIAPP remained significantly elevated compared with controls. At the recovery phase, no differences were observed between the groups. The early and isoform-specific elevation of KPIAPP in autoimmune encephalomyelitis mice suggests a possible role for amyloid precursor protein in the immune response mediating the disease.

The effect of blood cell count on coronary flow in patients with coronary slow flow phenomenon.

PubMed

Soylu, Korhan; Gulel, Okan; Yucel, Huriye; Yuksel, Serkan; Aksan, Gokhan; Soylu, Ayşegül İdil; Demircan, Sabri; Yılmaz, Ozcan; Sahin, Mahmut

2014-09-01

The coronary slow flow phenomenon (CSFP) is a coronary artery disease with a benign course, but its pathological mechanisms are not yet fully understood.The purpose of this controlled study was to investigate the cellular content of blood in patients diagnosed with CSFP and the relationship of this with coronary flow rates. Selective coronary angiographies of 3368 patients were analyzed to assess Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) frame count (TFC) values. Seventy eight of them had CSFP, and their demographic and laboratory findings were compared with 61 patients with normal coronary flow. Patients' demographic characteristics were similar in both groups. Mean corrected TFC (cTFC) values were significantly elevated in CSFP patients (p<0.001). Furthermore, hematocrit and hemoglobin values, and eosinophil and basophil counts of the CSFP patients were significantly elevated compared to the values obtained in the control group (p=0.005, p=0.047, p=0.001 and p=0.002, respectively). The increase observed in hematocrit and eosinophil levels showed significant correlations with increased TFC values (r=0.288 and r=0.217, respectively). Significant changes have been observed in the cellular composition of blood in patients diagnosed with CSFP as compared to the patients with normal coronary blood flow. The increases in hematocrit levels and in the eosinophil and basophil counts may have direct or indirect effects on the rate of coronary blood flow.

Bone turnover biomarkers in obese postmenopausal Saudi women with type-II diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Alselami, Nada M; Noureldeen, Amani F H; Al-Ghamdi, Maryam A; Khan, Jalaluddin A; Moselhy, Said S

2015-03-01

There is a high prevalence of diabetes mellitus type-2 (T2DM) and osteoporosis are problems worldwide. In this study, we evaluated the correlation between T2DM and bone turnover in diabetic obese postmenopausal Saudi women. The present study included total of 65 T2-DM obese postmenopausal Saudi women, (36 uncontrolled, 29 controlled). The following serum biochemical parameters were evaluated [fasting blood glucose (FBG), total calcium (Ca), phosphorus (Pi), parathyroid hormone (PTH), 1,25-(OH)2 Vitamin D3, osteocalcin (OC), procollagen (PICP) and cathepsin k (Cath K)]. Serum OC levels were significantly decreased in diabetic obese postmenopausal group compared to their respective healthy group (P < 0.004). PICP and Cath K were significantly elevated in diabetic postmenopausal group compared to the healthy group (P < 0.024 & 0.001). A significant elevation in 1,25(OH)2 Vitamin D3, Ca and Pi levels in diabetic obese postmenopausal patients group compared to the healthy group. However, a non-significant changes was observed in serum PTH level between different groups. In this study, the changes in the biochemical parameters and bone turnover markers in obese women are strong risk factors for diabetes development that may contribute to osteopenia and osteoporosis. The study showed the strong effect of T2DM on biochemical markers of bone turnover in obese postmenopausal Saudi women.

Use of near-IR to monitor the influence of external heating on dental composite photopolymerization.

PubMed

Trujillo, Marianela; Newman, Sheldon M; Stansbury, Jeffrey W

2004-10-01

This study was conducted to determine the effect of modest external heating on the photopolymerization kinetics and conversion of commercial dental composite restorative materials. A transmission-mode, real-time near-infrared spectroscopic technique was used to monitor the photopolymerization process in the composite materials at various temperatures between 23 and 70 degrees C. Several light curing units, differing in spectral output and power densities were compared at the different cure temperatures. Several significantly different commercial composites were compared for their response. Regardless of the curing light or composite material used, photopolymerization at a moderate curing temperature of 54.5 degrees C resulted in significantly higher immediate and final conversion values compared with room temperature photocuring. Contrary to the room temperature cured materials, at the elevated cure temperature the extent of post-cure was minor and different curing lights produced very uniform conversion values within a given material. The time required to reach a given level of conversion, established as full conversion with the room temperature cure, was reduced typically by 80-90% using the elevated curing conditions. Complementary kinetic studies confirmed the effect of cure temperature on increasing the polymerization rate in dental composites as significant. Increasing the temperature of composite resin within potentially biologically compatible limits can significantly influences resin polymerization. These increased rates and conversion could lead to improved properties of composite restorative materials.

Clotting factor VIII (FVIII) and thrombin generation in camel plasma: A comparative study with humans

PubMed Central

Abdel Gader, Abdel Galil M.; Al Momen, Abdul Karim M.; Alhaider, Abdulqader; Brooks, Marjory B.; Catalfamo, James L.; Al Haidary, Ahmed A.; Hussain, Mansour F.

2013-01-01

The objective of this study was to characterize the highly elevated levels of clotting factor VIII (FVIII) in camel plasma. Whole blood was collected from healthy camels and factor VIII clotting activity (FVIII:C) assays were conducted using both the clotting and the chromogenic techniques. The anticoagulant citrate phosphate dextrose adenine (CPDA) produced the highest harvest of FVIII:C, the level of plasma factor VIII, compared to heparin:saline and heparin:CPDA anticoagulants. Camel FVIII can be concentrated 2 to 3 times in cryoprecipitate. There was a significant loss of camel FVIII when comparing levels of FVIII in camel plasma after 1 h of incubation at 37°C (533%), 40°C (364%), and 50°C (223%). Thrombin generation of camel plasma is comparable to that of human plasma. It was concluded that camel plasma contains very elevated levels of FVIII:C, approaching 8 times the levels in human plasma, and that these elevated levels could not be attributed to excessive thrombin generation. Unlike human FVIII:C, camel FVIII:C is remarkably heat stable. Taken together, these unique features of camel FVIII could be part of the physiological adaptation of hemostasis of the Arabian camel in order to survive in the hot desert environment. PMID:24082408

Comparing the impact of supine and leg elevation positions during coronary artery bypass graft on deep vein thrombosis occurrence: a randomized clinical trial study.

PubMed

Ayatollahzade-Isfahani, Farah; Pashang, Mina; Omran, Abbas Salehi; Saadat, Soheil; Shirani, Shapour; Fathollahi, Mahmood Sheikh

2013-06-01

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a common preoperative complication that occurs in patients who undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting surgery (CABG). Early ambulation, elastic stockings, intermittent pneumatic compression, and leg elevation, before and after surgery, are among preventative interventions. The goal of the study was to compare the effect of supine position with that of leg elevation on the occurrence of DVT during CABG and after, until ambulation. Between October, 2008, and May, 2011, a total of 185 eligible CABG patients admitted to the Cardiac Surgery Unit were randomly assigned to groups designated as the supine group (n = 92) or the leg-elevation group (n = 93). Of this total, 92 patients were assigned to the supine group and 93 to the leg-elevation group. Doppler ultrasonography of the superficial and deep veins in the lower extremities was performed for each patient before and after surgery. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to investigate the possible independent factors associated with DVT. DVT was detected in 25 (13.5%) patients: 17 (18.4%) patients in the supine position group and 8 (8.6%) in the leg-elevation group (P value = .065). After adjustment for confounding factors there was no effect of position on the presence of DVT (P = .126).Clots were often localized in legs ipsilateral to the saphenous vein harvest. The authors conclude that a positive, albeit not statistically significant, trend was evident toward higher incidence of silent DVT in supine position during and after CABG in comparison with leg elevation. Future studies with larger sample sizes are required to confirm this result. Copyright © 2013 Society for Vascular Nursing, Inc. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

BATS RECOVERING FROM WHITE-NOSE SYNDROME ELEVATE METABOLIC RATE DURING WING HEALING IN SPRING.

PubMed

Meierhofer, Melissa B; Johnson, Joseph S; Field, Kenneth A; Lumadue, Shayne S; Kurta, Allen; Kath, Joseph A; Reeder, DeeAnn M

2018-04-04

  Host responses to infection with novel pathogens are costly and require trade-offs among physiologic systems. One such pathogen is the fungus Pseudogymnoascus destructans (Pd) that causes white-nose syndrome (WNS) and has led to mass mortality of hibernating bats in eastern North America. Although infection with Pd does not always result in death, we hypothesized that bats that survive infection suffer significant consequences that negatively impact the ability of females to reproduce. To understand the physiologic consequences of surviving infection with Pd, we assessed differences in wing damage, mass-specific resting metabolic rate, and reproductive rate between little brown myotis ( Myotis lucifugus) that survived a winter in captivity after inoculation with Pd (WNS survivors) and comparable, uninfected bats. Survivors of WNS had significantly more damaged wing tissue and displayed elevated mass-specific metabolic rates compared with Pd-uninfected bats after emergence from hibernation. The WNS survivors and Pd-uninfected bats did not significantly differ in their reproductive capacity, at least in captivity. However, our metabolic data demonstrated greater energetic costs during spring in WNS survivors compared with uninfected bats, which may have led to other consequences for postpartum fitness. We suggest that, after surviving the energetic constraints of winter, temperate hibernating bats infected with Pd faced a second energetic bottleneck after emerging from hibernation.

Serum VEGFR-3 as a potential biomarker in psoriasis.

PubMed

Hong, Xia; Jiang, Shan; Marmolejo, Nancy; Vangipuram, Ramya; Ramos-Rojas, Elmira; Yuan, Yulin; Lin, Zuan-Tao; Li, Yaxi; Qiu, Jingyi; Xing, Yikun; Haley, Christopher; Tyring, Stephen K; Wu, Tianfu

2018-06-29

To discover novel biomarkers of psoriasis, a target-specific antibody array screening of serum samples from psoriasis patients was initially performed. The results revealed that Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 3 (VEGFR-3) was significantly elevated in the sera of psoriasis patients, compared to healthy controls. Next, ELISA validation studies in a larger cohort of psoriasis patients (N=73) were conducted which confirmed that serum VEGFR-3 was indeed significantly increased in patients with psoriasis compared to healthy controls (P < 0.001). Furthermore, Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis demonstrated that serum VEGFR-3 exhibited potential in distinguishing healthy controls from psoriasis patients: Area Under the Curve (AUC) = 0.85, P < 0.001. In addition, serum levels of VEGFR-3 were correlated with Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI) scores (R = 0.32, P = 0.008) in psoriasis patients. Interestingly, serum VEGFR-3 levels were significantly elevated in psoriatic arthritis compared to non-psoriatic arthritis (P = 0.026). A pilot longitudinal study demonstrated that serum levels of VEGFR-3 could reflect disease progression in psoriasis. Collectively, serum VEGFR-3 may have a clinical value in monitoring disease activity of psoriasis. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Physiological Reactivity and Recent Life-Stress Experience.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pardine, Peter; Napoli, Anthony

1983-01-01

Assessed differences in cardiovascular reactivity between high and low life-stress students (N=26). Results indicated high life-stress individuals maintained their elevated stressor levels throughout recovery from a laboratory stressor, and showed significantly higher systolic recovery levels compared to the low stress group. (JAC)

Female Criminal Violence and Differential MMPI Characteristics.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sutker, Patricia B.; And Others

1978-01-01

Compared MMPI scale elevations and profile patterns produced by female murderers. Results suggest significant, reliable relationships between extreme criminal violence and aspects of MMPI performance. Women murderers were more defensive, less in touch with impulses, more socially conforming, and more removed from stereotyped definitions of…

Examining Trauma and Readiness to Change among Women in a Community Re-Entry Program.

PubMed

Killian, Michael; Cimino, Andrea N; Mendoza, Natasha S; Shively, Randy; Kunz, Kami

2018-03-21

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and co-occurring substance use disorders (SUDs) are common among women who are incarcerated. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between trauma and readiness to change substance use behaviors. This study used data from 103 participants enrolled in a residential re-entry program for women with SUDs and trauma history. Women reporting clinically elevated Trauma Symptom Inventory (TSI) subscale scores were compared to those without elevated scores on the University of Rhode Island Change Assessment (URICA) readiness to change instrument. Primary analyses included t-tests and ANCOVA to control for age and ethnicity. In general, women with clinically elevated trauma scores also reported greater readiness to change. The analyses revealed significant differences on the URICA Readiness to Change scores between women who had elevated Defensive Avoidance and Impaired Self-Reference according to the TSI. Results approached significance for women who had elevated TSI subscale scores for Sexual Concerns and Dissociation. These results point to a need to further understand links between trauma and readiness to change, particularly, the role of posttraumatic growth and psychological distress. This study has implications for social workers and clinicians delivering evidence-based treatment. Women who had high trauma symptoms were more willing to address change. Findings also suggest a need to tailor interventions to include motivational components that are also trauma-informed.

Elevated depressive affect is associated with adverse cardiovascular outcomes among African Americans with chronic kidney disease

PubMed Central

Fischer, Michael J.; Kimmel, Paul L.; Greene, Tom; Gassman, Jennifer J.; Wang, Xuelei; Brooks, Deborah H.; Charleston, Jeanne; Dowie, Donna; Thornley-Brown, Denyse; Cooper, Lisa A.; Bruce, Marino A.; Kusek, John W.; Norris, Keith C.; Lash, James P.

2011-01-01

This study was designed to examine the impact of elevated depressive affect on health outcomes among participants with hypertensive chronic kidney disease in the African-American Study of Kidney Disease and Hypertension (AASK) Cohort Study. Elevated depressive affect was defined by Beck Depression Inventory II (BDI-II) thresholds of 11 or more, above 14, and by 5-Unit increments in the score. Cox regression analyses were used to relate cardiovascular death/hospitalization, doubling of serum creatinine/end-stage renal disease, overall hospitalization, and all-cause death to depressive affect evaluated at baseline, the most recent annual visit (time-varying), or average from baseline to the most recent visit (cumulative). Among 628 participants at baseline, 42% had BDI-II scores of 11 or more and 26% had a score above 14. During a 5-year follow-up, the cumulative incidence of cardiovascular death/hospitalization was significantly greater for participants with baseline BDI-II scores of 11 or more compared with those with scores <11. The baseline, time-varying, and cumulative elevated depressive affect were each associated with a significant higher risk of cardiovascular death/hospitalization, especially with a time-varying BDI-II score over 14 (adjusted HR 1.63) but not with the other outcomes. Thus, elevated depressive affect is associated with unfavorable cardiovascular outcomes in African Americans with hypertensive chronic kidney disease. PMID:21633409

Synergistic action of tropospheric ozone and carbon dioxide on yield and nutritional quality of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea (L.) Czern.).

PubMed

Singh, Satyavan; Bhatia, Arti; Tomer, Ritu; Kumar, Vinod; Singh, B; Singh, S D

2013-08-01

Field experiments were conducted in open top chamber during rabi seasons of 2009-10 and 2010-11 at the research farm of the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi to study the effect of tropospheric ozone (O3) and carbon dioxide (CO2) interaction on yield and nutritional quality of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea (L.) Czern.). Mustard plants were grown from emergence to maturity under different treatments: charcoal-filtered air (CF, 80-85 % less O3 than ambient O3 and ambient CO2), nonfiltered air (NF, 5-10 % less O3 than ambient O3 and ambient CO2 ), nonfiltered air with elevated carbon dioxide (NF + CO2, NF air and 550 ± 50 ppm CO2), elevated ozone (EO, NF air and 25-35 ppb elevated O3), elevated ozone along with elevated carbon dioxide (EO + CO2, NF air, 25-35 ppb O3 and 550 ± 50 ppm CO2), and ambient chamber less control (AC, ambient O3 and CO2). Elevated O3 exposure led to reduced photosynthesis and leaf area index resulting in decreased seed yield of mustard. Elevated ozone significantly decreased the oil and micronutrient content in mustard. Thirteen to 17 ppm hour O3 exposure (accumulated over threshold of 40 ppm, AOT 40) reduced the oil content by 18-20 %. Elevated CO2 (500 ± 50 ppm) along with EO was able to counter the decline in oil content in the seed, and it increased by 11 to 13 % over EO alone. Elevated CO2, however, decreased protein, calcium, zinc, iron, magnesium, and sulfur content in seed as compared to the nonfiltered control, whereas removal of O3 from air in the charcoal-filtered treatment resulted in a significant increase in the same.

Effect of elevated CO2 on degradation of azoxystrobin and soil microbial activity in rice soil.

PubMed

Manna, Suman; Singh, Neera; Singh, V P

2013-04-01

An experiment was conducted in open-top chambers (OTC) to study the effect of elevated CO2 (580 ± 20 μmol mol(-1)) on azoxystrobin degradation and soil microbial activities. Results indicated that elevated CO2 did not have any significant effect on the persistence of azoxystrobin in rice-planted soil. The half-life values for the azoxystrobin in rice soils were 20.3 days in control (rice grown at ambient CO2 outdoors), 19.3 days in rice grown under ambient CO2 atmosphere in OTC, and 17.5 days in rice grown under elevated CO2 atmosphere in OTC. Azoxystrobin acid was recovered as the only metabolite of azoxystrobin, but it did not accumulate in the soil/water and was further metabolized. Elevated CO2 enhanced soil microbial biomass (MBC) and alkaline phosphatase activity of soil. Compared with rice grown at ambient CO2 (both outdoors and in OTC), the soil MBC at elevated CO2 increased by twofold. Elevated CO2 did not affect dehydrogenase, fluorescein diacetate, and acid phosphatase activity. Azoxystrobin application to soils, both ambient and elevated CO2, inhibited alkaline phosphates activity, while no effect was observed on other enzymes. Slight increase (1.8-2 °C) in temperature inside OTC did not affect microbial parameters, as similar activities were recorded in rice grown outdoors and in OTC at ambient CO2. Higher MBC in soil at elevated CO2 could be attributed to increased carbon availability in the rhizosphere via plant metabolism and root secretion; however, it did not significantly increase azoxystrobin degradation, suggesting that pesticide degradation was not the result of soil MBC alone. Study suggested that increased CO2 levels following global warming might not adversely affect azoxystrobin degradation. However, global warming is a continuous and cumulative process, therefore, long-term studies are necessary to get more realistic assessment of global warming on fate of pesticide.

Cardiotoxicity of Freon among refrigeration services workers: comparative cross-sectional study

PubMed Central

2009-01-01

Background Freon includes a number of gaseous, colorless chlorofluorocarbons. Although freon is generally considered to be a fluorocarbon of relatively low toxicity; significantly detrimental effects may occur upon over exposure. The purpose of the present study is to investigate whether occupational exposure to fluorocarbons can induce arterial hypertension, myocardial ischemia, cardiac arrhythmias, elevated levels of plasma lipids and renal dysfunction. Methods This comparative cross-sectional study was conducted at the cardiology clinic of the Suez Canal Authority Hospital (Egypt). The study included 23 apparently healthy male workers at the refrigeration services workshop who were exposed to fluorocarbons (FC 12 and FC 22) and 23 likewise apparently healthy male workers (unexposed), the control group. All the participants were interviewed using a pre-composed questionnaire and were subjected to a clinical examination and relevant laboratory investigations. Results There were no significant statistical differences between the groups studied regarding symptoms suggesting arterial hypertension and renal affection, although a significantly higher percentage of the studied refrigeration services workers had symptoms of arrhythmias. None of the workers had symptoms suggesting coronary artery disease. Clinical examination revealed that the refrigeration services workers had a significantly higher mean pulse rate compared to the controls, though no significant statistical differences were found in arterial blood pressure measurements between the two study groups. Exercise stress testing of the workers studied revealed normal heart reaction to the increased need for oxygen, while sinus tachycardia was detected in all the participants. The results of Holter monitoring revealed significant differences within subject and group regarding the number of abnormal beats detected throughout the day of monitoring (p < 0.001). There were no significant differences detected in the average heart rate during the monitoring period within subject or group. Most laboratory investigations revealed absence of significant statistical differences for lipid profile markers, serum electrolyte levels and glomerular lesion markers between the groups except for cholesterol and urinary β2-microglobulin (tubular lesion markers) levels which were significantly elevated in freon exposed workers. Conclusions Unprotected occupational exposure to chlorofluorocarbons can induce cardiotoxicity in the form of cardiac arrhythmias. The role of chlorofluorocarbons in inducing arterial hypertension and coronary artery diseases is unclear, although significantly elevated serum cholesterol and urinary β2-microglobulin levels raise a concern. PMID:19594908

[Effect of fentanyl on expression of mu-receptor and beta-arrestin 2 in periaqueductal gray of rats tolerant to morphine].

PubMed

Liu, Ruo-shan; Sun, Li; Liu, Xiao-yan; Li, Xuan-ying; Xu, Lei

2009-05-19

To investigate the effect of fentanyl upon the expression of mu-receptor and beta-arrestin 2 in peri-aqueductal gray of morphine-tolerant rats. Forty male SD rats weighing (230 +/- 20) g were randomly divided into 5 groups of eight animals each: group NS, group M, group MF1, group MF2 and group MF3. Rats in group NS received only subcutaneous normal saline 1 ml/kg twice a day for 9 consecutive days; group M received subcutaneous morphine 10 mg/kg followed by NS 1 ml/kg twice a day for 9 consecutive days; In groups MF1, MF2 and MF3, morphine 10 mg x kg(-1) was injected subcutaneously followed by fentanyl 3, 6, 12 microg/kg respectively. All animals were sacrificed at Day 9 after measurement of pain threshold. Periaqueductal gray was removed for determination of the expression of mRNA (RT-PCR) and protein (Western-blot) of mu-receptor and beta-arrestin 2. Compared with group NS, TFL of group M was significantly elevated after the first morphine injection (P < 0.01). But TFL of group M returned to the baseline value after chronic morphine treatment. Compared with group M, TFL increased in groups MF2 and MF3 at Days 7 and 9 (P < 0.05 or 0.01). However, TFL of group MF1 was negative (P > 0.05). The expression of mu-receptor mRNA and protein was significantly lower in group M than in group NS (P < 0.01). Compared with group M, the expressions of mu-receptor mRNA and protein were significantly elevated in group MF2 and MF3 (P < 0.05 or 0.01) but there was no significant change in group MF1 (P > 0.05). The expression of beta-arrestin 2 mRNA and protein significantly decreased in group M as compared with group NS (P < 0.01). Compared with group M, the expressions of beta-arrestin 2 mRNA and protein were significantly elevated in group MF2 and MF3 (P < 0.05 or 0.01), but there was no significant change in group MF1 (P > 0.05). Fentanyl at 6 and 12 microg/kg can partly inhibit morphine tolerance through an increased expression of mu-receptor and beta-arrestin 2 in periaqueductal gray of morphine-tolerant rats.

Fetal diffusion tensor quantification of brainstem pathology in Chiari II malformation.

PubMed

Woitek, Ramona; Prayer, Daniela; Weber, Michael; Amann, Gabriele; Seidl, Rainer; Bettelheim, Dieter; Schöpf, Veronika; Brugger, Peter C; Furtner, Julia; Asenbaum, Ulrika; Kasprian, Gregor

2016-05-01

This prenatal MRI study evaluated the potential of diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) metrics to identify changes in the midbrain of fetuses with Chiari II malformations compared to fetuses with mild ventriculomegaly, hydrocephalus and normal CNS development. Fractional anisotropy (FA) and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) were calculated from a region of interest (ROI) in the midbrain of 46 fetuses with normal CNS, 15 with Chiari II malformations, eight with hydrocephalus and 12 with mild ventriculomegaly. Fetuses with different diagnoses were compared group-wise after age-matching. Axial T2W-FSE sequences and single-shot echo planar DTI sequences (16 non-collinear diffusion gradient-encoding directions, b-values of 0 and 700 s/mm(2), 1.5 Tesla) were evaluated retrospectively. In Chiari II malformations, FA was significantly higher than in age-matched fetuses with a normal CNS (p = .003), while ADC was not significantly different. No differences in DTI metrics between normal controls and fetuses with hydrocephalus or vetriculomegaly were detected. DTI can detect and quantify parenchymal alterations of the fetal midbrain in Chiari II malformations. Therefore, in cases of enlarged fetal ventricles, FA of the fetal midbrain may contribute to the differentiation between Chiari II malformation and other entities. • FA in the fetal midbrain is elevated in Chiari II malformations. • FA is not elevated in hydrocephalus and mild ventriculomegaly without Chiari II. • Measuring FA may help distinguish different causes for enlarged ventricles prenatally. • Elevated FA may aid in the diagnosis of open neural tube defects. • Elevated FA might contribute to stratification for prenatal surgery in Chiari II.

Elevation Pattern in Growth Coherency on the Southeastern Tibetan Plateau

PubMed Central

Lyu, Lixin; Deng, Xu; Zhang, Qi-Bin

2016-01-01

It is generally expected that inter-annual changes in radial growth among trees would be similar to the increase in altitude due to the limitation of increasingly harsher climatic factors. Here, we examine whether this pattern exists in alpine forests on the southeastern Tibetan Plateau. Increment cores were collected from mature trees at the lower, middle and upper limits of balfour spruce (Picea likiangensis var. balfouriana (Rehd. et Wils.) Hillier ex Slsvin) forests at the Buze and Yela Mountains in Basu County, Changdu Prefecture of Tibet, China. The treeline elevations are 4320 m and 4510 m a.s.l. for Buze and Yela, respectively. Tree-ring widths were measured, crossdated, and detrended to obtain a sequence of ring-width indices for each individual sample. Annual growth rate, climate sensitivity, growth-climate relationships, and growth synchrony among trees were calculated and compared across altitudes. In Buze Mountain, the annual growth rate of trees has no significant difference across altitudes. The mean sensitivity of trees is lower at the treelines than at lower elevations. Tree growth has stronger correlation with winter temperature at upper elevations than at lower elevations, has significant correlation with moisture, not temperature, in the growing season, and the growth response to moisture is lower at the treeline than at lower elevations. The correlation among individual tree-ring sequences is lower at the treeline than at sites at lower elevation. In Yela Mountain, the characterisitics of annual growth rate, mean sensitivity, tree growth-climate relationships, and inter-serial correlation are similar to those in Buze, but their differences along altitudinal gradients are less significant as those in Buze. Our data do not support the general expectation of growth convergence among individuals with increasing altitude. We conclude that individual heterogeneity and microhabitat diversity are important features for treeline trees that may dampen the growth synchrony in trees. The results obtained in this study expand our knowledge about the pattern of forest growth along altitudinal gradients in high-elevation regions and demonstrate the importance of checking the growth of tree individuals before analyzing the average signal. PMID:27685668

Elevation Pattern in Growth Coherency on the Southeastern Tibetan Plateau.

PubMed

Lyu, Lixin; Deng, Xu; Zhang, Qi-Bin

It is generally expected that inter-annual changes in radial growth among trees would be similar to the increase in altitude due to the limitation of increasingly harsher climatic factors. Here, we examine whether this pattern exists in alpine forests on the southeastern Tibetan Plateau. Increment cores were collected from mature trees at the lower, middle and upper limits of balfour spruce (Picea likiangensis var. balfouriana (Rehd. et Wils.) Hillier ex Slsvin) forests at the Buze and Yela Mountains in Basu County, Changdu Prefecture of Tibet, China. The treeline elevations are 4320 m and 4510 m a.s.l. for Buze and Yela, respectively. Tree-ring widths were measured, crossdated, and detrended to obtain a sequence of ring-width indices for each individual sample. Annual growth rate, climate sensitivity, growth-climate relationships, and growth synchrony among trees were calculated and compared across altitudes. In Buze Mountain, the annual growth rate of trees has no significant difference across altitudes. The mean sensitivity of trees is lower at the treelines than at lower elevations. Tree growth has stronger correlation with winter temperature at upper elevations than at lower elevations, has significant correlation with moisture, not temperature, in the growing season, and the growth response to moisture is lower at the treeline than at lower elevations. The correlation among individual tree-ring sequences is lower at the treeline than at sites at lower elevation. In Yela Mountain, the characterisitics of annual growth rate, mean sensitivity, tree growth-climate relationships, and inter-serial correlation are similar to those in Buze, but their differences along altitudinal gradients are less significant as those in Buze. Our data do not support the general expectation of growth convergence among individuals with increasing altitude. We conclude that individual heterogeneity and microhabitat diversity are important features for treeline trees that may dampen the growth synchrony in trees. The results obtained in this study expand our knowledge about the pattern of forest growth along altitudinal gradients in high-elevation regions and demonstrate the importance of checking the growth of tree individuals before analyzing the average signal.

Similar photosynthetic response to elevated carbon dioxide concentration in species with different phloem loading strategies.

PubMed

Bishop, Kristen A; Lemonnier, Pauline; Quebedeaux, Jennifer C; Montes, Christopher M; Leakey, Andrew D B; Ainsworth, Elizabeth A

2018-06-02

Species have different strategies for loading sugars into the phloem, which vary in the route that sugars take to enter the phloem and the energetics of sugar accumulation. Species with passive phloem loading are hypothesized to have less flexibility in response to changes in some environmental conditions because sucrose export from mesophyll cells is dependent on fixed anatomical plasmodesmatal connections. Passive phloem loaders also have high mesophyll sugar content, and may be less likely to exhibit sugar-mediated down-regulation of photosynthetic capacity at elevated CO 2 concentrations. To date, the effect of phloem loading strategy on the response of plant carbon metabolism to rising atmospheric CO 2 concentrations is unclear, despite the widespread impacts of rising CO 2 on plants. Over three field seasons, five species with apoplastic loading, passive loading, or polymer-trapping were grown at ambient and elevated CO 2 concentration in free air concentration enrichment plots. Light-saturated rate of photosynthesis, photosynthetic capacity, leaf carbohydrate content, and anatomy were measured and compared among the species. All five species showed significant stimulation in midday photosynthetic CO 2 uptake by elevated CO 2 even though the two passive loading species showed significant down-regulation of maximum Rubisco carboxylation capacity at elevated CO 2 . There was a trend toward greater starch accumulation at elevated CO 2 in all species, and was most pronounced in passive loaders. From this study, we cannot conclude that phloem loading strategy is a key determinant of plant response to elevated CO 2 , but compelling differences in response counter to our hypothesis were observed. A phylogenetically controlled experiment with more species may be needed to fully test the hypothesis.

Comparison of Surface Elevation Changes of the Greenland and Antarctic Ice Sheets from Radar and Laser Altimetry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zwally, H. Jay; Brenner, Anita C.; Barbieri, Kristine; DiMarzio, John P.; Li, Jun; Robbins, John; Saba, Jack L.; Yi, Donghui

2012-01-01

A primary purpose of satellite altimeter measurements is determination of the mass balances of the Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets and changes with time by measurement of changes in the surface elevations. Since the early 1990's, important measurements for this purpose have been made by radar altimeters on ERS-l and 2, Envisat, and CryoSat and a laser altimeter on ICESat. One principal factor limiting direct comparisons between radar and laser measurements is the variable penetration depth of the radar signal and the corresponding location of the effective depth of the radar-measured elevation beneath the surface, in contrast to the laser-measured surface elevation. Although the radar penetration depth varies significantly both spatially and temporally, empirical corrections have been developed to account for this effect. Another limiting factor in direct comparisons is caused by differences in the size of the laser and radar footprints and their respective horizontal locations on the surface. Nevertheless, derived changes in elevation, dHldt, and time-series of elevation, H(t), have been shown to be comparable. For comparisons at different times, corrections for elevation changes caused by variations in the rate offrrn compaction have also been developed. Comparisons between the H(t) and the average dH/dt at some specific locations, such as the Vostok region of East Antarctic, show good agreement among results from ERS-l and 2, Envisat, and ICESat. However, Greenland maps of dHidt from Envisat and ICESat for the same time periods (2003-2008) show some areas of significant differences as well as areas of good agreement. Possible causes of residual differences are investigated and described.

Study of elevation changes along a profile crossing the Greenland Ice Sheet

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hvidegaard, S. M.; Sandberg, L.

2009-04-01

In recent years much research has focused on determining how the Greenland Ice Sheet is responding to the observed climate changes. There is wide agreement on the fact that the Ice Sheet is currently loosing mass, and studies have shown that the mass loss is found near the ice edge and that no significant changes are found in the central part of the Ice Sheet. As a part of European Space Agency's CryoSat Validation Experiment (CryoVEx) running from 2004 to 2008, the National Space Institute (DTU Space) measured the elevations along a profile crossing the Greenland Ice Sheet. The elevation observations were carried out in 2004, 2006 and 2008 using airborne laser altimetry from a Twin Otter aircraft. The observed profile follows the old EGIG line (Expédition Glaciologique au Groenland, measured in the 1950's) situated between 69-71N, heading nearly east-west. This unique dataset gives the opportunity to study elevation changes along the profile crossing the ice sheet. With this work, we outline the observed elevation changes from the different zones of the ice sheet. We furthermore compare elevation changes based on coincident ICESat and airborne laser altimeter data.

Optimal house elevation for reducing flood-related losses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xian, Siyuan; Lin, Ning; Kunreuther, Howard

2017-05-01

FEMA recommends that houses in coastal flood zones be elevated to at least 1 foot above the base flood elevation (BFE). However, this guideline is not specific and ignores characteristics of houses that affect their vulnerability. An economically optimal elevation level (OEL) is proposed that minimizes the combined cost of elevation and cumulative insurance premiums over the lifespan of the house. As an illustration, analysis is performed for various coastal houses in Ortley Beach, NJ. Compared with the strategy of raising houses to 1 foot above BFE, the strategy of raising houses to their OELs is much more economical for the homeowners. Elevating to the OELs also significantly reduces government spending on subsidizing low-income homeowners through, for example, a voucher program, to mitigate flood risk. These results suggest that policy makers should consider vulnerability factors in developing risk-reduction strategies. FEMA may recommend OELs to homeowners based on their flood hazards as well as house characteristics or at least providing more information and tools to homeowners to assist them in making more economical decisions. The OEL strategy can also be coupled with a voucher program to make the program more cost-effective.

Effects of soil pyrene contamination on growth and phenolics in Norway spruce (Picea abies) are modified by elevated temperature and CO2.

PubMed

Zhang, Yaodan; Virjamo, Virpi; Du, Wenchao; Yin, Ying; Nissinen, Katri; Nybakken, Line; Guo, Hongyan; Julkunen-Tiitto, Riitta

2018-05-01

With the constant accumulation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in soil and increasing temperature and CO 2 levels, plants will inevitably be exposed to combined stress. Studies on the effects of such combined stresses are needed to develop mitigation and adaptation measures. Here, we investigated the effects of soil pyrene contamination (50 mg kg -1 ) on growth and phenolics of 1-year-old Norway spruce seedlings from five different origins in Finland at elevated temperature (+ 2 °C) and CO 2 (+ 360 ppm). Pyrene significantly decreased spruce height growth (0-48%), needle biomass (0-44%), stem biomass (0-43%), and total phenolic concentrations in needles (2-13%) and stems (1-19%) compared to control plants. Elevated temperature alone did not affect growth but led to lower concentrations of total phenolics in needles (5-29%) and stems (5-18%) in both soil treatments. By contrast, elevated CO 2 led to higher needle biomass (0-39%) in pyrene-spiked soils and higher concentrations of stem phenolics (0-18%) in pyrene-spiked and control soils compared to ambient treatments. The decrease in height growth and phenolic concentrations caused by pyrene was greater at elevated temperature, while elevated CO 2 only marginally modified the response. Seedlings from different origins showed different responses to the combined environmental stressors. The changes in growth and in the quantity and quality of phenolics in this study suggest that future climate changes will aggravate the negative influence of soil pyrene pollution on northern conifer forest ecosystems.

Elevational Ranges of Montane Birds and Deforestation in the Western Andes of Colombia.

PubMed

Ocampo-Peñuela, Natalia; Pimm, Stuart L

2015-01-01

Deforestation causes habitat loss, fragmentation, degradation, and can ultimately cause extinction of the remnant species. Tropical montane birds face these threats with the added natural vulnerability of narrower elevational ranges and higher specialization than lowland species. Recent studies assess the impact of present and future global climate change on species' ranges, but only a few of these evaluate the potentially confounding effect of lowland deforestation on species elevational distributions. In the Western Andes of Colombia, an important biodiversity hotspot, we evaluated the effects of deforestation on the elevational ranges of montane birds along altitudinal transects. Using point counts and mist-nets, we surveyed six altitudinal transects spanning 2200 to 2800 m. Three transects were forested from 2200 to 2800 m, and three were partially deforested with forest cover only above 2400 m. We compared abundance-weighted mean elevation, minimum elevation, and elevational range width. In addition to analysing the effect of deforestation on 134 species, we tested its impact within trophic guilds and habitat preference groups. Abundance-weighted mean and minimum elevations were not significantly different between forested and partially deforested transects. Range width was marginally different: as expected, ranges were larger in forested transects. Species in different trophic guilds and habitat preference categories showed different trends. These results suggest that deforestation may affect species' elevational ranges, even within the forest that remains. Climate change will likely exacerbate harmful impacts of deforestation on species' elevational distributions. Future conservation strategies need to account for this by protecting connected forest tracts across a wide range of elevations.

Elevational Ranges of Montane Birds and Deforestation in the Western Andes of Colombia

PubMed Central

2015-01-01

Deforestation causes habitat loss, fragmentation, degradation, and can ultimately cause extinction of the remnant species. Tropical montane birds face these threats with the added natural vulnerability of narrower elevational ranges and higher specialization than lowland species. Recent studies assess the impact of present and future global climate change on species’ ranges, but only a few of these evaluate the potentially confounding effect of lowland deforestation on species elevational distributions. In the Western Andes of Colombia, an important biodiversity hotspot, we evaluated the effects of deforestation on the elevational ranges of montane birds along altitudinal transects. Using point counts and mist-nets, we surveyed six altitudinal transects spanning 2200 to 2800m. Three transects were forested from 2200 to 2800m, and three were partially deforested with forest cover only above 2400m. We compared abundance-weighted mean elevation, minimum elevation, and elevational range width. In addition to analysing the effect of deforestation on 134 species, we tested its impact within trophic guilds and habitat preference groups. Abundance-weighted mean and minimum elevations were not significantly different between forested and partially deforested transects. Range width was marginally different: as expected, ranges were larger in forested transects. Species in different trophic guilds and habitat preference categories showed different trends. These results suggest that deforestation may affect species’ elevational ranges, even within the forest that remains. Climate change will likely exacerbate harmful impacts of deforestation on species’ elevational distributions. Future conservation strategies need to account for this by protecting connected forest tracts across a wide range of elevations. PMID:26641477

[Clinical implications and angiographic and electrocardiographic correlation of ST segment elevation in leads V7-V9 in patients with ST elevation myocardial infarction].

PubMed

Adawi, Khaled; Atar, Shaul

2008-07-01

The clinical significance and clinical characteristics of patients with myocardial infarction involving the posterior wall of the left ventricle is not well-defined. The angiographic findings and their correlation with the eletrocardiographic (ECG) findings may be of high therapeutic importance. We retrospectively studied consecutive patients with ST elevation myocardial infarction on the admission ECG to the intensive cardiac care. We studied the clinical and demographic characteristics, the clinical course in-hospital and the clinical outcome (including infarct size, congestive heart failure and significant mitral insufficiency). All patients underwent coronary angiography during the index admission. We correlated the ECG findings on admission to the angiographic findings. We studied 198 patients with mean age of 57 +/- 12 years (range 30-88 years), 158 men (79.8%) and 40 women (20.2%). Myocardial infarction involving the inferior wall was noted in 119 patients, of whom 68 had inferior wall myocardial infarction only, and 51 had inferior and lateral wall involvement (leads I, AVL and/or V5-V6). Only 4 patients (2%) had ST elevation in leads V7-V9 only. The left ventricular ejection fraction was lowest in patients with anterior wall myocardial infarction (41% +/- 6) compared to myocardial infarction with the posterior wall involved (44% +/- 8) or myocardial infarction with the inferior wall only (54% +/- 6) (p = 0.023). The largest infarct size by peak creatine phosphokinase was found in the inferoposterior myocardial infarction group, significantly larger from inferior infarction only, and similar to that of anterior myocardial infarction. The incidence of congestive heart failure was slightly more in anterior myocardial infarction; however, significant mitral valve insufficiency was higher in patients with posterior wall involvement, yet with no statistical significance. The infarct related artery causing posterior myocardial infarction was significantly more frequent in the right coronary artery (57.1%) compared to the left circumflex artery (37.5%) (p < 0.01). The major artery causing involvement of the posterior wall is the right coronary artery. In patients with myocardial infarction involving the posterior wall, infarct size is similar to that of anterior wall myocardial infarction, and with similar complications rate. However, the incidence of significant mitral valve insufficiency and congestive heart failure is high in patients with posterior wall involvement. Posterior leads assessment should be conducted routinely in patients with suspected myocardial infarction.

Adult exposure to ocean acidification is maladaptive for larvae of the Sydney rock oyster Saccostrea glomerata in the presence of multiple stressors.

PubMed

Parker, Laura M; O'Connor, Wayne A; Byrne, Maria; Coleman, Ross A; Virtue, Patti; Dove, Michael; Gibbs, Mitchell; Spohr, Lorraine; Scanes, Elliot; Ross, Pauline M

2017-02-01

Parental effects passed from adults to their offspring have been identified as a source of rapid acclimation that may allow marine populations to persist as our surface oceans continue to decrease in pH. Little is known, however, whether parental effects are beneficial for offspring in the presence of multiple stressors. We exposed adults of the oyster Saccostrea glomerata to elevated CO 2 and examined the impacts of elevated CO 2 (control = 392; 856 µatm) combined with elevated temperature (control = 24; 28°C), reduced salinity (control = 35; 25) and reduced food concentration (control = full; half diet) on their larvae. Adult exposure to elevated CO 2 had a positive impact on larvae reared at elevated CO 2 as a sole stressor, which were 8% larger and developed faster at elevated CO 2 compared with larvae from adults exposed to ambient CO 2 These larvae, however, had significantly reduced survival in all multistressor treatments. This was particularly evident for larvae reared at elevated CO 2 combined with elevated temperature or reduced food concentration, with no larvae surviving in some treatment combinations. Larvae from CO 2 -exposed adults had a higher standard metabolic rate. Our results provide evidence that parental exposure to ocean acidification may be maladaptive when larvae experience multiple stressors. © 2017 The Author(s).

Adult exposure to ocean acidification is maladaptive for larvae of the Sydney rock oyster Saccostrea glomerata in the presence of multiple stressors

PubMed Central

O'Connor, Wayne A.; Byrne, Maria; Virtue, Patti; Dove, Michael; Gibbs, Mitchell; Spohr, Lorraine; Scanes, Elliot; Ross, Pauline M.

2017-01-01

Parental effects passed from adults to their offspring have been identified as a source of rapid acclimation that may allow marine populations to persist as our surface oceans continue to decrease in pH. Little is known, however, whether parental effects are beneficial for offspring in the presence of multiple stressors. We exposed adults of the oyster Saccostrea glomerata to elevated CO2 and examined the impacts of elevated CO2 (control = 392; 856 µatm) combined with elevated temperature (control = 24; 28°C), reduced salinity (control = 35; 25) and reduced food concentration (control = full; half diet) on their larvae. Adult exposure to elevated CO2 had a positive impact on larvae reared at elevated CO2 as a sole stressor, which were 8% larger and developed faster at elevated CO2 compared with larvae from adults exposed to ambient CO2. These larvae, however, had significantly reduced survival in all multistressor treatments. This was particularly evident for larvae reared at elevated CO2 combined with elevated temperature or reduced food concentration, with no larvae surviving in some treatment combinations. Larvae from CO2-exposed adults had a higher standard metabolic rate. Our results provide evidence that parental exposure to ocean acidification may be maladaptive when larvae experience multiple stressors. PMID:28202683

Three-dimensional OCT based guinea pig eye model: relating morphology and optics.

PubMed

Pérez-Merino, Pablo; Velasco-Ocana, Miriam; Martinez-Enriquez, Eduardo; Revuelta, Luis; McFadden, Sally A; Marcos, Susana

2017-04-01

Custom Spectral Optical Coherence Tomography (SOCT) provided with automatic quantification and distortion correction algorithms was used to measure the 3-D morphology in guinea pig eyes (n = 8, 30 days; n = 5, 40 days). Animals were measured awake in vivo under cyclopegia. Measurements showed low intraocular variability (<4% in corneal and anterior lens radii and <8% in the posterior lens radii, <1% interocular distances). The repeatability of the surface elevation was less than 2 µm. Surface astigmatism was the individual dominant term in all surfaces. Higher-order RMS surface elevation was largest in the posterior lens. Individual surface elevation Zernike terms correlated significantly across corneal and anterior lens surfaces. Higher-order-aberrations (except spherical aberration) were comparable with those predicted by OCT-based eye models.

Respiratory Disease Related Mortality and Morbidity on an Island of Greece Exposed to Perlite and Bentonite Mining Dust

PubMed Central

Sampatakakis, Stefanos; Linos, Athena; Papadimitriou, Eleni; Petralias, Athanasios; Dalma, Archontoula; Papasaranti, Eirini Saranti; Christoforidou, Eleni; Stoltidis, Melina

2013-01-01

A morbidity and mortality study took place, focused on Milos Island, where perlite and bentonite mining sites are located. Official data concerning number and cause of deaths, regarding specific respiratory diseases and the total of respiratory diseases, for both Milos Island and the Cyclades Prefecture were used. Standardized Mortality Ratios (SMRs) were computed, adjusted specifically for age, gender and calendar year. Tests of linear trend were performed. By means of a predefined questionnaire, the morbidity rates of specific respiratory diseases in Milos, were compared to those of the municipality of Oinofita, an industrial region. Chi-square analysis was used and the confounding factors of age, gender and smoking were taken into account, by estimating binary logistic regression models. The SMRs for Pneumonia and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) were found elevated for both genders, although they did not reach statistical significance. For the total of respiratory diseases, a statistically significant SMR was identified regarding the decade 1989–1998. The morbidity study revealed elevated and statistically significant Odds Ratios (ORs), associated with allergic rhinitis, pneumonia, COPD and bronchiectasis. An elevated OR was also identified for asthma. After controlling for age, gender and smoking, the ORs were statistically significant and towards the same direction. PMID:24129114

Salivary Concentrations of Interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-17A, and IL-23 Vary in Relation to Periodontal Status.

PubMed

Liukkonen, Joonas; Gürsoy, Ulvi K; Pussinen, Pirkko J; Suominen, Anna L; Könönen, Eija

2016-12-01

Interleukin (IL)-23-induced T helper (Th) 17 pathway is involved in the pathogenesis of periodontal disease. This study's aim is to determine levels of IL-1β, IL-17A, IL-23, and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in saliva, and to examine whether their salivary concentrations are associated with periodontal health status. Saliva samples originated from 220 participants; 76 had generalized periodontitis (GP) and 65 had localized periodontitis (LP), whereas 79 without periodontitis were used as controls. Cytokine analyses were performed by a flow cytometry-based technique and LPS analyses from pellet by commercially optimized assay coupled with chromogenic substrate. Salivary concentrations of IL-17A and IL-23 were elevated significantly in patients with LP compared with controls and patients with GP. Salivary IL-1β concentrations were significantly higher in patients with GP than in patients with LP, whereas no difference was found between LP and control groups. Significant correlation was found between concentrations of IL-17A and IL-23 or IL-1β. LPS concentrations did not have significant associations with any of the tested ILs. Elevated salivary IL-1β concentrations are related to GP, whereas distinct elevation and reduction profiles of IL-17A and IL-23 are detected in saliva of patients with LP and GP.

Respiratory disease related mortality and morbidity on an island of Greece exposed to perlite and bentonite mining dust.

PubMed

Sampatakakis, Stefanos; Linos, Athena; Papadimitriou, Eleni; Petralias, Athanasios; Dalma, Archontoula; Papasaranti, Eirini Saranti; Christoforidou, Eleni; Stoltidis, Melina

2013-10-14

A morbidity and mortality study took place, focused on Milos Island, where perlite and bentonite mining sites are located. Official data concerning number and cause of deaths, regarding specific respiratory diseases and the total of respiratory diseases, for both Milos Island and the Cyclades Prefecture were used. Standardized Mortality Ratios (SMRs) were computed, adjusted specifically for age, gender and calendar year. Tests of linear trend were performed. By means of a predefined questionnaire, the morbidity rates of specific respiratory diseases in Milos, were compared to those of the municipality of Oinofita, an industrial region. Chi-square analysis was used and the confounding factors of age, gender and smoking were taken into account, by estimating binary logistic regression models. The SMRs for Pneumonia and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) were found elevated for both genders, although they did not reach statistical significance. For the total of respiratory diseases, a statistically significant SMR was identified regarding the decade 1989-1998. The morbidity study revealed elevated and statistically significant Odds Ratios (ORs), associated with allergic rhinitis, pneumonia, COPD and bronchiectasis. An elevated OR was also identified for asthma. After controlling for age, gender and smoking, the ORs were statistically significant and towards the same direction.

Variation in torpor patterns of free-ranging black-tailed and Utah prairie dogs across gradients of elevation

USGS Publications Warehouse

Lehmer, E.M.; Biggins, D.E.

2005-01-01

We compared over-winter body temperature (Tb) patterns for more than 6 months in adult (> 1 year) black-tailed (Cynomys ludovicianus) and Utah (C. parvidens) prairie dogs from colonies located along gradients of elevation in northern Colorado and southern Utah. In general, black-tailed prairie dogs entered torpor facultatively during winter, whereas Utah prairie dogs hibernated continuously for extended periods. Both black-tailed and Utah prairie dogs displayed significant differences in Tb patterns across elevations, with lower elevation populations entering more shallow and infrequent torpor than prairie dogs at higher elevations. Tb patterns of black-tailed prairie dogs followed 24-h cycles, as most prairie dogs entered into and aroused from torpor between 1100 and 1700 h and bout lengths were clustered around 24-h intervals and multiples thereof. Torpor in Utah prairie dogs did not display the same daily patterns; they entered into and aroused from torpor at all times of the day, and bout lengths were variable. Although black-tailed and Utah prairie dogs are closely related, mechanisms that stimulate and control torpor might differ between them.

Social regulation of plasma estradiol concentration in a female anuran

PubMed Central

Lynch, Kathleen S.; Wilczynski, Walter

2008-01-01

The behavior of an individual within a social aggregation profoundly influences behavior and physiology of other animals within the aggregation in such a way that these social interactions can enhance reproductive success, survival and fitness. This phenomenon is particularly important during the breeding season when males and female must synchronize their reproductive efforts. We examined whether exposure to conspecific social cues can elevate sex steroid levels, specifically estradiol and androgens, in female túngara frogs (Physalaemus pustulosus). We compared plasma estradiol and androgen concentrations in wild-caught females before and after exposure to either natural mate choruses or random tones. After exposure to mate choruses for 10 consecutive nights, estradiol concentrations were significantly elevated whereas there was no significant elevation in estradiol concentrations in the group of females exposed to random tones for 10 nights. Plasma androgen concentrations were not significantly changed after exposure to either natural mate choruses or random tones for 10 consecutive nights. Social modulation of estradiol concentrations may be important in maintaining a female’s reproductive state while males are chorusing. To our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate social regulation of estradiol concentration in female anurans. PMID:16545384

A comparative study of the incidence of Schneiderian membrane perforations during maxillary sinus augmentation with a sonic oscillating handpiece versus a conventional turbine handpiece.

PubMed

Geminiani, Alessandro; Weitz, Daniel S; Ercoli, Carlo; Feng, Changyong; Caton, Jack G; Papadimitriou, Dimitrios E V

2015-04-01

Sonic instruments may reduce perforation rates of the schneiderian membrane during lateral window sinus augmentation procedures. This study compares the incidence of membrane perforations using a sonic handpiece with an oscillating diamond insert versus a turbine handpiece with a conventional rotary diamond stone during lateral window sinus augmentation procedures. A retrospective chart analysis identified all lateral window sinus augmentation procedures done during a defined period. Among these procedures, those performed with a sonic handpiece and an oscillating diamond insert (experimental) and those performed with a conventional turbine and rotary diamond stone (conventional) were selected for this study. Reported occurrences of sinus membrane perforations during preparation of the osteotomy and elevation of the sinus membrane, as well as postoperative complications, were recorded and compared between treatment groups. Ninety-three consecutive patients were identified for a total of 130 sinus augmentation procedures (51 conventional, 79 experimental). Schneiderian membrane perforations were noted during preparation of the lateral window osteotomy in 27.5% of the sinuses in the conventional group and 12.7% of sinuses in the experimental group. During membrane elevation, perforations were noted in 43.1% of the sinuses in the conventional group and 25.3% of sinuses in the experimental group. Both differences in perforation rates were statistically significant (p < .05). There was no statistically significant difference in postoperative complications. In this study, the use of a sonic instrument to prepare the lateral window osteotomy during sinus elevation procedures resulted in a reduced perforation rate of the Schneiderian membrane compared with the conventional turbine instrument. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Diet reduction to requirements in obese/overfed ewes from early gestation prevents glucose/insulin dysregulation and returns fetal adiposity and organ development to control levels

PubMed Central

Tuersunjiang, Nuermaimaiti; Odhiambo, John F.; Long, Nathan M.; Shasa, Desiree R.; Nathanielsz, Peter W.

2013-01-01

Obesity at conception and excess gestational weight gain pose significant risks for adverse health consequences in human offspring. This study evaluated the effects of reducing dietary intake of obese/overfed ewes beginning in early gestation on fetal development. Sixty days prior to conception, ewes were assigned to a control diet [CON: 100% of National Research Council (NRC) recommendations], a diet inducing maternal obesity (MO: 150% of NRC recommendations), or a maternal obesity intervention diet (MOI: 150% of NRC recommendations to day 28 of gestation, then 100% NRC) until necropsy at midgestation (day 75) or late (day 135) gestation. Fetal size and weight, as well as fetal organ weights, were greater (P < 0.05) at midgestation in MO ewes than those of CON and MOI ewes. By late gestation, whereas fetal size and weight did not differ among dietary groups, cardiac ventricular weights and wall thicknesses as well as liver and perirenal fat weights remained elevated in fetuses from MO ewes compared with those from CON and MOI ewes. MO ewes and fetuses exhibited elevated (P < 0.05) plasma concentrations of triglycerides, cholesterol, insulin, glucose, and cortisol at midgestation compared with CON and MOI ewes and fetuses. In late gestation, whereas plasma triglycerides and cholesterol, insulin, and cortisol remained elevated in MO vs. CON and MOI ewes and fetuses, glucose concentrations were elevated in both MO and MOI fetuses compared with CON fetuses, which was associated with elevated placental GLUT3 expression in both groups. These data are consistent with the concept that reducing maternal diet of obese/overfed ewes to requirements from early gestation can prevent subsequent alterations in fetal growth, adiposity, and glucose/insulin dynamics. PMID:23921140

Diet reduction to requirements in obese/overfed ewes from early gestation prevents glucose/insulin dysregulation and returns fetal adiposity and organ development to control levels.

PubMed

Tuersunjiang, Nuermaimaiti; Odhiambo, John F; Long, Nathan M; Shasa, Desiree R; Nathanielsz, Peter W; Ford, Stephen P

2013-10-01

Obesity at conception and excess gestational weight gain pose significant risks for adverse health consequences in human offspring. This study evaluated the effects of reducing dietary intake of obese/overfed ewes beginning in early gestation on fetal development. Sixty days prior to conception, ewes were assigned to a control diet [CON: 100% of National Research Council (NRC) recommendations], a diet inducing maternal obesity (MO: 150% of NRC recommendations), or a maternal obesity intervention diet (MOI: 150% of NRC recommendations to day 28 of gestation, then 100% NRC) until necropsy at midgestation (day 75) or late (day 135) gestation. Fetal size and weight, as well as fetal organ weights, were greater (P < 0.05) at midgestation in MO ewes than those of CON and MOI ewes. By late gestation, whereas fetal size and weight did not differ among dietary groups, cardiac ventricular weights and wall thicknesses as well as liver and perirenal fat weights remained elevated in fetuses from MO ewes compared with those from CON and MOI ewes. MO ewes and fetuses exhibited elevated (P < 0.05) plasma concentrations of triglycerides, cholesterol, insulin, glucose, and cortisol at midgestation compared with CON and MOI ewes and fetuses. In late gestation, whereas plasma triglycerides and cholesterol, insulin, and cortisol remained elevated in MO vs. CON and MOI ewes and fetuses, glucose concentrations were elevated in both MO and MOI fetuses compared with CON fetuses, which was associated with elevated placental GLUT3 expression in both groups. These data are consistent with the concept that reducing maternal diet of obese/overfed ewes to requirements from early gestation can prevent subsequent alterations in fetal growth, adiposity, and glucose/insulin dynamics.

No evidence that elevated CO2 gives tropical lianas an advantage over tropical trees.

PubMed

Marvin, David C; Winter, Klaus; Burnham, Robyn J; Schnitzer, Stefan A

2015-05-01

Recent studies indicate that lianas are increasing in size and abundance relative to trees in neotropical forests. As a result, forest dynamics and carbon balance may be altered through liana-induced suppression of tree growth and increases in tree mortality. Increasing atmospheric CO2 is hypothesized to be responsible for the increase in neotropical lianas, yet no study has directly compared the relative response of tropical lianas and trees to elevated CO2 . We explicitly tested whether tropical lianas had a larger response to elevated CO2 than co-occurring tropical trees and whether seasonal drought alters the response of either growth form. In two experiments conducted in central Panama, one spanning both wet and dry seasons and one restricted to the dry season, we grew liana (n = 12) and tree (n = 10) species in open-top growth chambers maintained at ambient or twice-ambient CO2 levels. Seedlings of eight individuals (four lianas, four trees) were grown in the ground in each chamber for at least 3 months during each season. We found that both liana and tree seedlings had a significant and positive response to elevated CO2 (in biomass, leaf area, leaf mass per area, and photosynthesis), but that the relative response to elevated CO2 for all variables was not significantly greater for lianas than trees regardless of the season. The lack of differences in the relative response between growth forms does not support the hypothesis that elevated CO2 is responsible for increasing liana size and abundance across the neotropics. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Effect of ageing on pulmonary inflammation, airway hyperresponsiveness and T and B cell responses in antigen-sensitized and -challenged mice.

PubMed

Busse, Paula J; Zhang, Teng Fei; Srivastava, Kamal; Schofield, Brian; Li, Xiu-Min

2007-09-01

The effect of ageing on several pathologic features of allergic asthma (pulmonary inflammation, eosinophilia, mucus hypersecretion), and their relationship with airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) is not well characterized. To evaluate lung inflammation, mucus metaplasia and AHR in relationship with age in murine models of allergic asthma comparing young and older mice. Young (6 weeks) and older (6, 12, 18 months) BALB/c mice were sensitized and challenged with ovalbumin (OVA). AHR and bronchoalveolar fluid (BALF), total inflammatory cell count and differential were measured. To evaluate mucus metaplasia, quantitative PCR for the major airway mucin-associated gene, MUC-5AC, from lung tissue was measured, and lung tissue sections stained with periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) for goblet-cell enumeration. Lung tissue cytokine gene expression was determined by quantitative PCR, and systemic cytokine protein levels by ELISA from spleen-cell cultures. Antigen-specific serum IgE was determined by ELISA. AHR developed in both aged and young OVA-sensitized/challenged mice (OVA mice), and was more significantly increased in young OVA mice than in aged OVA mice. However, BALF eosinophil numbers were significantly higher, and lung histology showed greater inflammation in aged OVA mice than in young OVA mice. MUC-5AC expression and numbers of PAS+ staining bronchial epithelial cells were significantly increased in the aged OVA mice. All aged OVA mice had increased IL-5 and IFN-gamma mRNA expression in the lung and IL-5 and IFN-gamma protein levels from spleen cell cultures compared with young OVA mice. OVA-IgE was elevated to a greater extent in aged OVA mice. Although pulmonary inflammation and mucus metaplasia after antigen sensitization/challenge occurred to a greater degree in older mice, the increase in AHR was significantly less compared with younger OVA mice. Antigen treatment produced a unique cytokine profile in older mice (elevated IFN-gamma and IL-5) compared with young mice (elevated IL-4 and IL-13). Thus, the airway response to inflammation is lessened in ageing animals, and may represent age-associated events leading to different phenotypes in response to antigen provocation.

Influence of elevated temperature and acid mine drainage on mortality of the crayfish Cambarus bartonii

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hartman, K.J.; Hom, C.D.; Mazik, P.M.

2010-01-01

Effects of elevated temperature and acid mine drainage (AMD) on crayfish mortality were investigated in the Stony River, Grant County, West Virginia. During summers 2003 and 2004, four-week in situ bioassays were performed along a thermal and AMD gradient with the native crayfish Cambarus bartonii. Crayfish mortality was analyzed in conjunction with temperature and AMD related variables (pH, specific conductivity). Mortality was significantly higher (48-88%) at sites with high temperatures during 2003 (max = 33.0??C), but no significant differences were observed in 2004 (max = 32.0??C). Temperatures were higher in 2003 than 2004 due to increased discharge from a cooling reservoir flowing into the river. Additionally, duration of high temperature was approximately four days in 2003 as compared with only one day in 2004. No significant relationship between acid mine drainage variables and crayfish mortality was apparent.

Lipolytic signaling in response to acute exercise is altered in female mice following ovariectomy

PubMed Central

Wohlers, Lindsay M.; Jackson, Kathryn C.; Spangenburg, Espen E.

2011-01-01

Impaired ovarian function alters lipid metabolism, ultimately resulting in increased visceral fat mass. Currently, we have a poor understanding of alterations in signaling events regulating lipolysis after ovarian function declines. The purpose of this study was to determine if cellular mechanisms regulating lipolysis are altered in mice after ovariectomy (OVX) and if OVX mice exhibit impaired lipolytic signaling when stimulated by acute exercise. SHAM and OVX mice were divided into two groups: control (SHAM cont; OVX cont) or acute treadmill exercise (SHAM ex; OVX ex). The omental/mesenteric (O/M) fat mass of all OVX mice was significantly greater than the SHAM mice. Serum glycerol and blood glucose levels were significantly elevated in OVX cont compared to SHAM cont. Treadmill exercise increased serum glycerol levels only in SHAM mice, with no exercise-induced change detected in OVX mice. NEFA levels were significantly elevated by acute exercise in the SHAM and OVX groups. In O/M fat from both OVX groups there were significant increases in cytosolic ATGL and PLIN2 in the fat cake fraction with concurrent reductions in PLIN1 in the fat cake compared to SHAM. Further, exercise induced significant increases in HSL Ser660 phosphorylation in SHAM mice, but not OVX mice. This suggests that reduced ovarian function has significant effects on critical lipolytic cell signaling mechanisms in O/M adipose tissue. PMID:21815195

Asymmetric vitreomacular traction and symmetrical full thickness macular hole formation.

PubMed

Woon, Wai H; Greig, Denis; Savage, Mike D; Wilson, Mark C T; Grant, Colin A; Bishop, Fiona; Mokete, Bataung

2015-11-01

A Full Thickness Macular Hole (FTMH) is often associated with vitreomacular traction, and this can be asymmetric with vitreomacular traction on one side of the hole but not the other. In cross-section, the elevated retinal rim around a developed FTMH is seen as a drawbridge elevation, and this drawbridge elevation may be used as a measure of morphological change. Examination of the drawbridge elevation of the retinal rim in FTMH with asymmetric vitreomacular traction may help to clarify the role of vitreomacular traction in the development of FTMH. Cases of FTMH were identified with an initial OCT scan showing vitreomacular traction on one side of the hole only and that had a follow-up OCT scan showing progression of the hole. A tangent to the retinal surface at a distance of 700 microns from the axis of the hole was used as a marker of the drawbridge elevation of the retinal rim around the macular hole. Comparisons of the drawbridge elevation and change in drawbridge elevation between the sides with and without initial vitreomacular traction were made. There was no significant difference between the drawbridge elevation, or change in drawbridge elevation, on the side of the hole with initial vitreomacular traction compared to the side without initial traction. There is some intrinsic mechanism within the retina to link the morphological changes on the two sides of a FTMH. A bistable hypothesis of FTMH formation and closure is postulated to explain this linkage.

Biogeographical Interpretation of Elevational Patterns of Genus Diversity of Seed Plants in Nepal

PubMed Central

Li, Miao; Feng, Jianmeng

2015-01-01

This study tests if the biogeographical affinities of genera are relevant for explaining elevational plant diversity patterns in Nepal. We used simultaneous autoregressive (SAR) models to investigate the explanatory power of several predictors in explaining the diversity-elevation relationships shown in genera with different biogeographical affinities. Delta akaike information criterion (ΔAIC) was used for multi-model inferences and selections. Our results showed that both the total and tropical genus diversity peaked below the mid-point of the elevational gradient, whereas that of temperate genera had a nearly symmetrical, unimodal relationship with elevation. The proportion of temperate genera increased markedly with elevation, while that of tropical genera declined. Compared to tropical genera, temperate genera had wider elevational ranges and were observed at higher elevations. Water-related variables, rather than mid-domain effects (MDE), were the most significant predictors of elevational patterns of tropical genus diversity. The temperate genus diversity was influenced by energy availability, but only in quadratic terms of the models. Though climatic factors and mid-domain effects jointly explained most of the variation in the diversity of temperate genera with elevation, the former played stronger roles. Total genus diversity was most strongly influenced by climate and the floristic overlap of tropical and temperate floras, while the influences of mid-domain effects were relatively weak. The influences of water-related and energy-related variables may vary with biogeographical affinities. The elevational patterns may be most closely related to climatic factors, while MDE may somewhat modify the patterns. Caution is needed when investigating the causal factors underlying diversity patterns for large taxonomic groups composed of taxa of different biogeographical affinities. Right-skewed diversity-elevation patterns may be produced by the differential response of taxa with varying biogeographical affinities to climatic factors and MDE. PMID:26488164

Biogeographical Interpretation of Elevational Patterns of Genus Diversity of Seed Plants in Nepal.

PubMed

Li, Miao; Feng, Jianmeng

2015-01-01

This study tests if the biogeographical affinities of genera are relevant for explaining elevational plant diversity patterns in Nepal. We used simultaneous autoregressive (SAR) models to investigate the explanatory power of several predictors in explaining the diversity-elevation relationships shown in genera with different biogeographical affinities. Delta akaike information criterion (ΔAIC) was used for multi-model inferences and selections. Our results showed that both the total and tropical genus diversity peaked below the mid-point of the elevational gradient, whereas that of temperate genera had a nearly symmetrical, unimodal relationship with elevation. The proportion of temperate genera increased markedly with elevation, while that of tropical genera declined. Compared to tropical genera, temperate genera had wider elevational ranges and were observed at higher elevations. Water-related variables, rather than mid-domain effects (MDE), were the most significant predictors of elevational patterns of tropical genus diversity. The temperate genus diversity was influenced by energy availability, but only in quadratic terms of the models. Though climatic factors and mid-domain effects jointly explained most of the variation in the diversity of temperate genera with elevation, the former played stronger roles. Total genus diversity was most strongly influenced by climate and the floristic overlap of tropical and temperate floras, while the influences of mid-domain effects were relatively weak. The influences of water-related and energy-related variables may vary with biogeographical affinities. The elevational patterns may be most closely related to climatic factors, while MDE may somewhat modify the patterns. Caution is needed when investigating the causal factors underlying diversity patterns for large taxonomic groups composed of taxa of different biogeographical affinities. Right-skewed diversity-elevation patterns may be produced by the differential response of taxa with varying biogeographical affinities to climatic factors and MDE.

Recreational runners with patellofemoral pain exhibit elevated patella water content.

PubMed

Ho, Kai-Yu; Hu, Houchun H; Colletti, Patrick M; Powers, Christopher M

2014-09-01

Increased bone water content resulting from repetitive patellofemoral joint overloading has been suggested to be a possible mechanism underlying patellofemoral pain (PFP). To date, it remains unknown whether persons with PFP exhibit elevated bone water content. The purpose of this study was to determine whether recreational runners with PFP exhibit elevated patella water content when compared to pain-free controls. Ten female recreational runners with a diagnosis of PFP (22 to 39years of age) and 10 gender, age, weight, height, and activity matched controls underwent chemical-shift-encoded water-fat magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to quantify patella water content (i.e., water-signal fraction). Differences in bone water content of the total patella, lateral aspect of the patella, and medial aspect of the patella were compared between groups using independent t tests. Compared with the control group, the PFP group demonstrated significantly greater total patella bone water content (15.4±3.5% vs. 10.3±2.1%; P=0.001), lateral patella water content (17.2±4.2% vs. 11.5±2.5%; P=0.002), and medial patella water content (13.2±2.7% vs. 8.4±2.3%; P<0.001). The higher patella water content observed in female runners with PFP is suggestive of venous engorgement and elevated extracellular fluid. In turn, this may lead to an increase in intraosseous pressure and pain. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Increased collagen-linked pentosidine levels and advanced glycosylation end products in early diabetic nephropathy.

PubMed Central

Beisswenger, P J; Moore, L L; Brinck-Johnsen, T; Curphey, T J

1993-01-01

RATIONALE: Advanced glycosylation end products (AGEs) may play an important role in the development of diabetic vascular sequelae. An AGE cross-link, pentosidine, is a sensitive and specific marker for tissue levels of AGEs. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the role of AGEs in the development of diabetic nephropathy and retinopathy, we studied pentosidine levels and the clinical characteristics of 48 subjects with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. Diabetic nephropathy was classified as normal, microalbuminuria, or gross proteinuria, and retinopathy was graded as none, background, or proliferative. NEWLY OBSERVED FINDINGS: Significant elevation of pentosidine (P = 0.025) was found in subjects with microalbuminuria or gross proteinuria (73.03 +/- 9.47 vs 76.46 +/- 6.37 pmol/mg col) when compared with normal (56.96 +/- 3.26 pmol/mg col). Multivariate analysis to correct for age, duration of diabetes, and gender did not modify the results. Elevated pentosidine levels were also found in those with proliferative when compared with those with background retinopathy (75.86 +/- 5.66 vs 60.42 +/- 5.98 pmol/mg col) (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Microalbuminuria is associated with elevated levels of pentosidine similar to those found in overt diabetic nephropathy suggesting that elevated AGE levels are already present during the earliest detectable phase of diabetic nephropathy. Images PMID:8325987

Blastocyst transfer does not improve cycle outcome as compared to D3 transfer in antagonist cycles with an elevated progesterone level on the day of hCG.

PubMed

Demirel, Cem; Aydoğdu, Serkan; Özdemir, Arzu İlknur; Keskin, Gülşah; Baştu, Ercan; Buyru, Faruk

2017-09-01

To evaluate the association between progesterone elevation on the day of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) administration and clinical pregnancy rates of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI) cycles with the transfer of embryos at different developmental stages (day-3 versus day-5 ETs). This is a retrospective analysis of fresh IVF/ICSI; 194 cycles out of 2676 conducted in a single center. A total of 2676 cycles were analyzed, of which 386 had no progesterone measurements available. Two hundred eighteen cycles had progesterone elevation (p>1.5 ng/mL) giving an overall incidence of 9.5%. Twenty-four cycles were excluded from further analysis. Of the remaining 194 cycles, 151 had day-3 transfers and 43 had blastocyst transfers. There was no statistically significant difference in pregnancy and clinical pregnancy rates per transfer between the D3-ET and D5-ET groups (46% vs. 49%, and 39% vs. 35%, respectively). The results of this study suggest that blastocyst transfer does not improve cycle outcomes compared with D3 transfer in GnRH antagonist cycles with an elevated progesterone level on the day of hCG.

Effects of elevated [CO2] and low soil moisture on the physiological responses of Mountain Maple (Acer spicatum L.) seedlings to light.

PubMed

Danyagri, Gabriel; Dang, Qing-Lai

2013-01-01

Global climate change is expected to affect how plants respond to their physical and biological environments. In this study, we examined the effects of elevated CO2 ([CO2]) and low soil moisture on the physiological responses of mountain maple (Acer spicatum L.) seedlings to light availability. The seedlings were grown at ambient (392 µmol mol(-1)) and elevated (784 µmol mol(-1)) [CO2], low and high soil moisture (M) regimes, at high light (100%) and low light (30%) in the greenhouse for one growing season. We measured net photosynthesis (A), stomatal conductance (g s), instantaneous water use efficiency (IWUE), maximum rate of carboxylation (V cmax), rate of photosynthetic electron transport (J), triose phosphate utilization (TPU)), leaf respiration (R d), light compensation point (LCP) and mid-day shoot water potential (Ψx). A and g s did not show significant responses to light treatment in seedlings grown at low soil moisture treatment, but the high light significantly decreased the C i/C a in those seedlings. IWUE was significantly higher in the elevated compared with the ambient [CO2], and the effect was greater at high than the low light treatment. LCP did not respond to the soil moisture treatments when seedlings were grown in high light under both [CO2]. The low soil moisture significantly reduced Ψx but had no significant effect on the responses of other physiological traits to light or [CO2]. These results suggest that as the atmospheric [CO2] rises, the physiological performance of mountain maple seedlings in high light environments may be enhanced, particularly when soil moisture conditions are favourable.

Soluble adenylyl cyclase mediates mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis and ATP metabolism in oyster Crassostrea gigas exposed to elevated CO2.

PubMed

Wang, Xiudan; Wang, Mengqiang; Xu, Jiachao; Jia, Zhihao; Liu, Zhaoqun; Wang, Lingling; Song, Linsheng

2017-07-01

Ocean acidification (OA) has deleterious impacts on immune response and energy homeostasis status of Mollusca. In the present study, the apoptosis ratio of hemocytes and the adenosine triphosphate (ATP) allocation in gill tissues were determined after Pacific oysters Crassostrea gigas were exposed to elevated CO 2 environment (pH = 7.50) for 16 days.The apoptosis ratio in CO 2 exposure group (35.2%) was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than that in the control group, and the increased apoptosis ratio induced by elevated CO 2 could be significantly inhibited (p < 0.05) by KH7, a specific inhibitor of a bicarbonate sensor soluble adenylyl cyclase (sAC). After CO 2 exposure, sAC in oyster (CgsAC) was found to be clustered with mitochondria in the cytoplasm, and the pro-caspase-3 was cleaved into two small fragments. Moreover, the activities of caspase-3 and caspase-9 also increased post CO 2 exposure and these increases could be inhibited by KH7. However, the activities of caspase-8 did not change significantly compared with that in the control group. After CO 2 exposure, the ATP content in the gill increased significantly (p < 0.05) and such increase could also be inhibited by KH7. The ATP content in purified gill mitochondria decreased significantly (p < 0.05) after CO 2 exposure, which was also inhibited by KH7. These results implied that the elevated CO 2 could activate the mitochondria-CgsAC pathway of apoptosis and ATP metabolism in oyster, and this pathway played essential roles in maintaining the homeostasis and the balance of energy metabolism in response to OA. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effects of Elevated [CO2] and Low Soil Moisture on the Physiological Responses of Mountain Maple (Acer spicatum L.) Seedlings to Light

PubMed Central

Danyagri, Gabriel; Dang, Qing-Lai

2013-01-01

Global climate change is expected to affect how plants respond to their physical and biological environments. In this study, we examined the effects of elevated CO2 ([CO2]) and low soil moisture on the physiological responses of mountain maple (Acer spicatum L.) seedlings to light availability. The seedlings were grown at ambient (392 µmol mol−1) and elevated (784 µmol mol−1) [CO2], low and high soil moisture (M) regimes, at high light (100%) and low light (30%) in the greenhouse for one growing season. We measured net photosynthesis (A), stomatal conductance (g s), instantaneous water use efficiency (IWUE), maximum rate of carboxylation (V cmax), rate of photosynthetic electron transport (J), triose phosphate utilization (TPU)), leaf respiration (R d), light compensation point (LCP) and mid-day shoot water potential (Ψx). A and g s did not show significant responses to light treatment in seedlings grown at low soil moisture treatment, but the high light significantly decreased the C i/C a in those seedlings. IWUE was significantly higher in the elevated compared with the ambient [CO2], and the effect was greater at high than the low light treatment. LCP did not respond to the soil moisture treatments when seedlings were grown in high light under both [CO2]. The low soil moisture significantly reduced Ψx but had no significant effect on the responses of other physiological traits to light or [CO2]. These results suggest that as the atmospheric [CO2] rises, the physiological performance of mountain maple seedlings in high light environments may be enhanced, particularly when soil moisture conditions are favourable. PMID:24146894

Axial and radial diffusivity in preterm infants who have diffuse white matter changes on magnetic resonance imaging at term-equivalent age.

PubMed

Counsell, Serena J; Shen, Yuji; Boardman, James P; Larkman, David J; Kapellou, Olga; Ward, Philip; Allsop, Joanna M; Cowan, Frances M; Hajnal, Joseph V; Edwards, A David; Rutherford, Mary A

2006-02-01

Diffuse excessive high signal intensity (DEHSI) is observed in the majority of preterm infants at term-equivalent age on conventional MRI, and diffusion-weighted imaging has shown that apparent diffusion coefficient values are elevated in the white matter (WM) in DEHSI. Our aim was to obtain diffusion tensor imaging on preterm infants at term-equivalent age and term control infants to test the hypothesis that radial diffusivity was significantly different in the WM in preterm infants with DEHSI compared with both preterm infants with normal-appearing WM on conventional MRI and term control infants. Diffusion tensor imaging was obtained on 38 preterm infants at term-equivalent age and 8 term control infants. Values for axial (lambda1) and radial [(lambda2 + lambda3)/2] diffusivity were calculated in regions of interest positioned in the central WM at the level of the centrum semiovale, frontal WM, posterior periventricular WM, occipital WM, anterior and posterior portions of the posterior limb of the internal capsule, and the genu and splenium of the corpus callosum. Radial diffusivity was elevated significantly in the posterior portion of the posterior limb of the internal capsule and the splenium of the corpus callosum, and both axial and radial diffusivity were elevated significantly in the WM at the level of the centrum semiovale, the frontal WM, the periventricular WM, and the occipital WM in preterm infants with DEHSI compared with preterm infants with normal-appearing WM and term control infants. There was no significant difference between term control infants and preterm infants with normal-appearing WM in any region studied. These findings suggest that DEHSI represents an oligodendrocyte and/or axonal abnormality that is widespread throughout the cerebral WM.

Prognostic significance of smoking in addition to established risk factors in patients with Dukes B and C colorectal cancer: a retrospective analysis.

PubMed

Diamantis, N; Xynos, I D; Amptulah, S; Karadima, M; Skopelitis, H; Tsavaris, N

2013-01-01

To investigate the prognostic significance of smoking in addition to established risk factors in patients with Dukes stage B and C colorectal cancer (CRC). 291 consecutive non-selected CRC patients were studied retrospectively. Twenty-three variables were examined using a regression statistical model to identify relevant prognostic factors related to disease free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). On multivariate analysis DFS was found to be negatively affected in patients with a smoking history of ≤10 pack-years vs. non-smokers (p<0.016). Additionally, performance status (PS)<90 (p<0.001), Dukes stage C (p<0.001) and elevated tumor markers (p<0.001) at the time of diagnosis were found to adversely affect DFS. Smoking also had a significant association with relapse. Patients with a smoking history of ≤10 pack-years had 2.45 (p<0.018) higher risk of recurrence compared to patients with no smoking history. OS was influenced by Karnofsky performance status (PS), Dukes stage, and elevated tumor markers. In particular patients with PS< 90 had a 4.69-fold higher risk of death (p<0.001) than patients with better PS. Stage C disease was associated with 2.27-fold higher risk of death (p<0.001) than stage B disease, and patients with elevated tumor markers at the time of diagnosis had 2.74-fold higher risk of death (p<0.014) when compared to those whose tumor markers were normal at presentation. Our study associates smoking and relapse incidence in non-clinical- trial CRC patients and reiterates the prognostic significance of PS, stage and tumor markers at the time of diagnosis.

Attenuation of insulin resistance in rats by agmatine: role of SREBP-1c, mTOR and GLUT-2.

PubMed

Sharawy, Maha H; El-Awady, Mohammed S; Megahed, Nirmeen; Gameil, Nariman M

2016-01-01

Insulin resistance is a serious health condition worldwide; however, its exact mechanisms are still unclear. This study investigates agmatine (AGM; an endogenous metabolite of L-arginine) effects on insulin resistance induced by high fructose diet (HFD) in rats and the possible involved mechanisms. Sprague Dawley rats were fed 60% HFD for 12 weeks, and AGM (10 mg/kg/day, orally) was given from week 9 to 12. AGM significantly reduced HFD-induced elevation in fasting insulin level, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) index and liver glycogen content from 3.44-, 3.62- and 2.07- to 2.59-, 2.78- and 1.3-fold, respectively, compared to the control group, while it increased HFD-induced reduction in glucose tolerance. Additionally, AGM significantly decreased HFD-induced elevation in serum triglycerides, low density lipoprotein cholesterol and very low density lipoprotein cholesterol levels from 3.18-, 2.97- and 4.75- to 1.25-, 1.25- and 1.07-fold, respectively, compared to control group. Conversely, AGM had no significant effect on HFD-induced changes in fasting glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin, insulin tolerance and high density lipoprotein cholesterol. Furthermore, AGM significantly reduced HFD-induced elevation in mRNA expression of glucose transporter type-2 (GLUT-2), mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1c (SREBP-1c) without affecting that of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-alpha (PPAR-α) in the liver. Additionally, AGM enhanced ACh-induced aortic relaxation and attenuated liver steatosis induced by HFD. In conclusion, AGM may have a therapeutic potential in insulin resistance through suppressing SREBP-1c, mTOR and GLUT-2 in liver.

C-reactive protein levels in patients with aggressive periodontitis.

PubMed

Salzberg, Trang N; Overstreet, Benjamin T; Rogers, Jeffrey D; Califano, Joseph V; Best, Al M; Schenkein, Harvey A

2006-06-01

Sera from patients with periodontal infections contain elevated levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) compared to periodontally healthy individuals. Most studies to date have included patients with chronic periodontitis, and few investigators have studied CRP levels in subjects with aggressive periodontitis (AgP). The purpose of this study was to determine the relative levels of serum CRP in AgP patients and periodontally healthy subjects and to examine patients' characteristics that might account for intergroup differences. Serum samples were collected from 93 patients with generalized AgP (GAgP), from 97 patients with localized AgP (LAgP), and from 91 healthy controls (non-periodontitis [NP]). Periodontal examination consisted of plaque index, gingival index, probing depth, bleeding index, and attachment loss measurements. Current smoking was assessed by determination of serum cotinine levels by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and serum CRP levels were determined using a high-sensitivity ELISA assay. The three groups were significantly different from one another (P <0.0001). The 95% confidence interval for serum CRP concentrations were as follows: NP, 0.65919 (0.4901 to 0.8869); LAgP, 1.10138 (0.8265 to 1.468); and GAgP, 2.05318 (1.5313 to 2.7538) mg/l. CRP levels in both LAgP and GAgP subjects were significantly greater than those in NP subjects, and levels in GAgP were significantly greater than those in LAgP. Following adjustment of the data for periodontal and demographic variables and current smoking, both mean probing depth and periodontal diagnosis remained correlated with CRP levels. Patients with AgP have statistically significant elevations in serum CRP levels compared to subjects without periodontitis. Elevated CRP in these subjects might represent a contribution of periodontal infections to systemic inflammation in relatively young individuals.

Mechanisms of dopaminergic and serotonergic neurotransmission in Tourette syndrome: clues from an in vivo neurochemistry study with PET.

PubMed

Wong, Dean F; Brasić, James R; Singer, Harvey S; Schretlen, David J; Kuwabara, Hiroto; Zhou, Yun; Nandi, Ayon; Maris, Marika A; Alexander, Mohab; Ye, Weiguo; Rousset, Olivier; Kumar, Anil; Szabo, Zsolt; Gjedde, Albert; Grace, Anthony A

2008-05-01

Tourette syndrome (TS) is a neuropsychiatric disorder with childhood onset characterized by motor and phonic tics. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is often concomitant with TS. Dysfunctional tonic and phasic dopamine (DA) and serotonin (5-HT) metabolism may play a role in the pathophysiology of TS. We simultaneously measured the density, affinity, and brain distribution of dopamine D2 receptors (D2-R's), dopamine transporter binding potential (BP), and amphetamine-induced dopamine release (DA(rel)) in 14 adults with TS and 10 normal adult controls. We also measured the brain distribution and BP of serotonin 5-HT2A receptors (5-HT2AR), and serotonin transporter (SERT) BP, in 11 subjects with TS and 10 normal control subjects. As compared with controls, DA rel was significantly increased in the ventral striatum among subjects with TS. Adults with TS+OCD exhibited a significant D(2)-R increase in left ventral striatum. SERT BP in midbrain and caudate/putamen was significantly increased in adults with TS (TS+OCD and TS-OCD). In three subjects with TS+OCD, in whom D2-R, 5-HT2AR, and SERT were measured within a 12-month period, there was a weakly significant elevation of DA rel and 5-HT2A BP, when compared with TS-OCD subjects and normal controls. The current study confirms, with a larger sample size and higher resolution PET scanning, our earlier report that elevated DA rel is a primary defect in TS. The finding of decreased SERT BP, and the possible elevation in 5-HT2AR in individuals with TS who had increased DA rel, suggest a condition of increased phasic DA rel modulated by low 5-HT in concomitant OCD.

Retinal cell responses to elevated intraocular pressure: a gene array comparison between the whole retina and retinal ganglion cell layer.

PubMed

Guo, Ying; Cepurna, William O; Dyck, Jennifer A; Doser, Tom A; Johnson, Elaine C; Morrison, John C

2010-06-01

To determine and compare gene expression patterns in the whole retina and retinal ganglion cell layer (RGCL) in a rodent glaucoma model. IOP was unilaterally elevated in Brown Norway rats (N = 26) by injection of hypertonic saline and monitored for 5 weeks. A cDNA microarray was used on whole retinas from one group of eyes with extensive optic nerve injury and on RGCL isolated by laser capture microdissection (LCM) from another group with comparable injury, to determine the significantly up- or downregulated genes and gene categories in both groups. Expression changes of selected genes were examined by quantitative reverse transcription-PCR (qPCR) to verify microarray results. Microarray analysis of the whole retina identified 632 genes with significantly changed expression (335 up, 297 down), associated with 9 upregulated and 3 downregulated biological processes. In contrast, the RGCL microarray yielded 3726 genes with significantly changed expression (2003 up, 1723 down), including 60% of those found in whole retina. Thirteen distinct upregulated biological processes were identified in the RGCL, dominated by protein synthesis. Among 11 downregulated processes, axon extension and dendrite morphogenesis and generation of precursor metabolism and energy were uniquely identified in the RGCL. qPCR confirmed significant changes in 6 selected messages in whole retina and 11 in RGCL. Increased Atf3, the most upregulated gene in the RGCL, was confirmed by immunohistochemistry of RGCs. Isolation of RGCL by LCM allows a more refined detection of gene response to elevated pressure and improves the potential of determining cellular mechanisms in RGCs and their supporting cells that could be targets for enhancing RGC survival.

The effect of gabapentin on gap detection and forward masking in young and old gerbils.

PubMed

Gleich, Otto; Strutz, Jürgen

2011-01-01

Auditory temporal processing frequently appears more affected in old subjects than would be predicted by the degree of peripheral hearing loss, pointing to an age-dependent central processing deficit. In parallel, an age-dependent decline of inhibitory function has been demonstrated in the auditory pathway, suggesting a causal relationship between temporal processing and inhibition. Gabapentin has been specifically synthesized as a potential gamma-amino-butyric-acid (GABA) mimetic with the capability to cross the blood-brain barrier. Gabapentin treatment ameliorated tinnitus in a rat model and improved tinnitus annoyance in humans with acoustic trauma. Consequently, the present study evaluated the effect of gabapentin on auditory temporal processing in the gerbil model. Psychometric functions were collected for different test paradigms. (A) "Gap detection": The detection of a gap in the middle of a 800 msec broadband noise pulse was determined either at 15 or at 30 dB SL. (B) "Forward masking": The detection of a 20 msec probe stimulus following 2.5 msec after a 400 msec 40 dB SPL masker was determined with masker and probe frequency at 2.85 kHz. The effect of gabapentin was evaluated by collecting gap detection and forward masking functions before, during, and after treating gerbils with gabapentin doses of 115 or 350 mg/kg/day administered via drinking water. Data under different experimental conditions were collected for groups of 3 to 5 young (<2 years) and 6 to 10 old (>2 years) gerbils. Two-way analyses of variance for the factors age groups and treatment groups with subsequent pairwise comparisons for significant effects were used for the statistical evaluation of the data. For gap detection, mean thresholds were significantly increased in the group of old as compared with the young gerbils at 30 dB SL (young 2.0 msec; old 3.2 msec) and at 15 dB SL (young 2.9 msec; old 9.1 msec). Gabapentin had no significant effect on gap detection, and there was no significant interaction between age group and gabapentin treatment. Mean thresholds in the forward masking paradigm were significantly elevated in old (45.5 dB SPL) as compared with young (35.0 dB SPL) gerbils. Overall, gabapentin had no significant effect on masked thresholds; however, there was a significant interaction between treatment and age. Subsequent pairwise comparisons revealed no significant effect on masked thresholds in old gerbils but showed significantly elevated thresholds of young gerbils during 350 mg/kg gabapentin (38.3 dB SPL) compared with thresholds obtained in young gerbils before (32.3 dB SPL) and after (33.5 dB SPL) treatment. Gabapentin did not exert a therapeutic effect on impaired gap detection and forward masking in old gerbils. The lack of an effect of gabapentin on impaired auditory temporal processing in old gerbils and the finding of elevated masked thresholds in young gerbils can be reconciled with reports of only moderate GABAergic effects compared with other drugs (e.g., comparing elevation of GABA levels in the brain by gabapentin and vigabatrin) and effects due to binding of gabapentin to alpha-2-delta units of voltage-gated calcium channels.

Acute Physiological Responses to Strongman Training Compared to Traditional Strength Training.

PubMed

Harris, Nigel K; Woulfe, Colm J; Wood, Matthew R; Dulson, Deborah K; Gluchowski, Ashley K; Keogh, Justin B

2016-05-01

Strongman training (ST) has become an increasingly popular modality, but data on physiological responses are limited. This study sought to determine physiological responses to an ST session compared to a traditional strength exercise training (RST) session. Ten healthy men (23.6 ± 27.5 years, 85.8 ± 10.3 kg) volunteered in a crossover design, where all participants performed an ST session, an RST session, and a resting session within 7 days apart. The ST consisted of sled drag, farmer's walk, 1 arm dumbbell clean and press, and tire flip at loads eliciting approximately 30 seconds of near maximal effort per set. The RST consisted of squat, deadlift, bench press, and power clean, progressing to 75% of 1 repetition maximum. Sessions were equated for approximate total set duration. Blood lactate and salivary testosterone were recorded immediately before and after training sessions. Heart rate, caloric expenditure, and substrate utilization were measured throughout the resting session, both training protocols and for 80 minutes after training sessions. Analyses were conducted to determine differences in physiological responses within and between protocols. No significant changes in testosterone occurred at any time point for either session. Lactate increased significantly immediately after both sessions. Heart rate, caloric expenditure, and substrate utilization were all elevated significantly during ST and RST. Heart rate and fat expenditure were significantly elevated compared to resting in both sessions' recovery periods; calorie and carbohydrate expenditures were not. Compared to RST, ST represents an equivalent physiological stimulus on key parameters indicative of potential training-induced adaptive responses. Such adaptations could conceivably include cardiovascular conditioning.

Intrathecal Th17- and B cell-associated cytokine and chemokine responses in relation to clinical outcome in Lyme neuroborreliosis: a large retrospective study.

PubMed

Gyllemark, Paula; Forsberg, Pia; Ernerudh, Jan; Henningsson, Anna J

2017-02-01

B cell immunity, including the chemokine CXCL13, has an established role in Lyme neuroborreliosis, and also, T helper (Th) 17 immunity, including IL-17A, has recently been implicated. We analysed a set of cytokines and chemokines associated with B cell and Th17 immunity in cerebrospinal fluid and serum from clinically well-characterized patients with definite Lyme neuroborreliosis (group 1, n = 49), defined by both cerebrospinal fluid pleocytosis and Borrelia-specific antibodies in cerebrospinal fluid and from two groups with possible Lyme neuroborreliosis, showing either pleocytosis (group 2, n = 14) or Borrelia-specific antibodies in cerebrospinal fluid (group 3, n = 14). A non-Lyme neuroborreliosis reference group consisted of 88 patients lacking pleocytosis and Borrelia-specific antibodies in serum and cerebrospinal fluid. Cerebrospinal fluid levels of B cell-associated markers (CXCL13, APRIL and BAFF) were significantly elevated in groups 1, 2 and 3 compared with the reference group, except for BAFF, which was not elevated in group 3. Regarding Th17-associated markers (IL-17A, CXCL1 and CCL20), CCL20 in cerebrospinal fluid was significantly elevated in groups 1, 2 and 3 compared with the reference group, while IL-17A and CXCL1 were elevated in group 1. Patients with time of recovery <3 months had lower cerebrospinal fluid levels of IL-17A, APRIL and BAFF compared to patients with recovery >3 months. By using a set of markers in addition to CXCL13 and IL-17A, we confirm that B cell- and Th17-associated immune responses are involved in Lyme neuroborreliosis pathogenesis with different patterns in subgroups. Furthermore, IL-17A, APRIL and BAFF may be associated with time to recovery after treatment.

Urinary Peptides in Rett Syndrome.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Solaas, K. M.; Skjeldal, O.; Gardner, M. L. G.; Kase, B. F.; Reichelt, K. L.

2002-01-01

A study found a significantly higher level of peptides in the urine of 53 girls with Rett syndrome compared with controls. The elevation was similar to that in 35 girls with infantile autism. Levels of peptides were lower in girls with classic Rett syndrome than those with congenital Rett syndrome. (Contains references.) (Author/CR)

Psychological Adjustment and Neuropsychological Performance in Diabetic Patients.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Skenazy, Judy A.; Bigler, Erin D.

1985-01-01

Compared diabetic (N=39) with nondiabetic chronic illness patients (N=20) and healthy controls (N=24). The chronic illness and the diabetic groups had significant elevations on the Hypochondriasis, Depression, and Hysteria scales of the Feschingbauer Abbreviated MMPI. For diabetics, results demonstrated a negligible effect of poor adjustment on…

Satellite and Instrument Influences on ICESat Waveforms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Webb, C. E.; Urban, T. J.; Neuenschwander, A. L.; Gutierrez, R.; Schutz, B. E.

2007-12-01

The White Sands Space Harbor (WSSH) has served as the principal ground calibration site throughout the Ice, Cloud and land Elevation Satellite (ICESat) mission. The Center for Space Research (CSR) at the University of Texas at Austin continues to conduct various experiments designed to validate the timing, geolocation and geometric characteristics of individual laser footprints on the surface. In addition, two airborne lidar surveys of the calibration site and surrounding area were conducted during the mission, first in 2003 and again in 2007. Chosen for its limited surface roughness and topographic flatness, this area has been targeted 3-4 times in each of the 12 ICESat mapping campaigns to date, yielding a significant altimetry data set. The derived surface elevations are compared with those from the airborne lidar surveys, as well as those obtained by the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM). Furthermore, the Geoscience Laser Altimetry System (GLAS) onboard ICESat records a digitized waveform for each laser pulse returned from the surface. The two methods currently used to fit such signals in ICESat data processing are examined and compared for the WSSH waveforms. The first fits up to two distinct Gaussians and provides a surface elevation at the location of the maximum peak. The second fits up to six overlapping Gaussians and provides a surface elevation at the centroid of the pulse. Observed differences in the reported elevations are discussed in terms of the satellite's off-nadir targeting geometry, the laser energy, and the skewness of the returned waveforms.

Warming and increased precipitation frequency on the Colorado Plateau: Implications for biological soil crusts and soil processes

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

Zelikova TJ; Hosman DC; Grote EE

2011-03-21

Frequent hydration and drying of soils in arid systems can accelerate desert carbon and nitrogen mobilization due to respiration, microbial death, and release of intracellular solutes. Because desert microinvertebrates can mediate nutrient cycling, and the autotrophic components of crusts are known to be sensitive to rapid desiccation due to elevated temperatures after wetting events, we studied whether altered soil temperature and frequency of summer precipitation can also affect the composition of food web consumer functional groups. We conducted a two-year field study with experimentally-elevated temperature and frequency of summer precipitation in the Colorado Plateau desert, measuring the change in abundancemore » of nematodes, protozoans, and microarthropods. We hypothesized that microfauna would be more adversely affected by the combination of elevated temperature and frequency of summer precipitation than either effect alone, as found previously for phototrophic crust biota. Microfauna experienced normal seasonal fluctuations in abundance, but the effect of elevated temperature and frequency of summer precipitation was statistically non-significant for most microfaunal groups, except amoebae. The seasonal increase in abundance of amoebae was reduced with combined elevated temperature and increased frequency of summer precipitation compared to either treatment alone, but comparable with control (untreated) plots. Based on our findings, we suggest that desert soil microfauna are relatively more tolerant to increases in ambient temperature and frequency of summer precipitation than the autotrophic components of biological soil crust at the surface.« less

Effect and Safety of Morphine Use in Acute Anterior ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction.

PubMed

Bonin, Mickael; Mewton, Nathan; Roubille, Francois; Morel, Olivier; Cayla, Guillaume; Angoulvant, Denis; Elbaz, Meyer; Claeys, Marc J; Garcia-Dorado, David; Giraud, Céline; Rioufol, Gilles; Jossan, Claire; Ovize, Michel; Guerin, Patrice

2018-02-10

Morphine is commonly used to treat chest pain during myocardial infarction, but its effect on cardiovascular outcome has never been directly evaluated. The aim of this study was to examine the effect and safety of morphine in patients with acute anterior ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction followed up for 1 year. We used the database of the CIRCUS (Does Cyclosporine Improve Outcome in ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction Patients) trial, which included 969 patients with anterior ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, admitted for primary percutaneous coronary intervention. Two groups were defined according to use of morphine preceding coronary angiography. The composite primary outcome was the combined incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events, including cardiovascular death, heart failure, cardiogenic shock, myocardial infarction, unstable angina, and stroke during 1 year. A total of 554 (57.1%) patients received morphine at first medical contact. Both groups, with and without morphine treatment, were comparable with respect to demographic and periprocedural characteristics. There was no significant difference in major adverse cardiovascular events between patients who received morphine compared with those who did not (26.2% versus 22.0%, respectively; P =0.15). The all-cause mortality was 5.3% in the morphine group versus 5.8% in the no-morphine group ( P =0.89). There was no difference between groups in infarct size as assessed by the creatine kinase peak after primary percutaneous coronary intervention (4023±118 versus 3903±149 IU/L; P =0.52). In anterior ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction patients treated by primary percutaneous coronary intervention, morphine was used in half of patients during initial management and was not associated with a significant increase in major adverse cardiovascular events at 1 year. © 2018 The Authors and Hospices Civils de Lyon. Published on behalf of the American Heart Association, Inc., by Wiley.

Electrocardiographic Findings in Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome Presenting With Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest.

PubMed

Sarak, Bradley; Goodman, Shaun G; Brieger, David; Gale, Chris P; Tan, Nigel S; Budaj, Andrzej; Wong, Graham C; Huynh, Thao; Tan, Mary K; Udell, Jacob A; Bagai, Akshay; Fox, Keith A A; Yan, Andrew T

2018-02-01

We sought to characterize presenting electrocardiographic findings in patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACSs) and out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). In the Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events and Canadian ACS Registry I, we examined presenting and 24- to 48-hour follow-up ECGs (electrocardiogram) of ACS patients who survived to hospital admission, stratified by presentation with OHCA. We assessed the prevalence of ST-segment deviation and bundle branch blocks (assessed by an independent ECG core laboratory) and their association with in-hospital and 6-month mortality among those with OHCA. Of the 12,040 ACS patients, 215 (1.8%) survived to hospital admission after OHCA. Those with OHCA had higher presenting rates of ST-segment elevation, ST-segment depression, T-wave inversion, precordial Q-waves, left bundle branch block (LBBB), and right bundle branch block (RBBB) than those without. Among patients with OHCA, those with ST-segment elevation had significantly lower in-hospital mortality (20.9% vs 33.0%, p = 0.044) and a trend toward lower 6-month mortality (27% vs 39%, p = 0.060) compared with those without ST-segment elevation. Conversely, among OCHA patients, LBBB was associated with significantly higher in-hospital and 6-month mortality rates (58% vs 22%, p <0.001, and 65% vs 28%, p <0.001, respectively). ST-segment depression and RBBB were not associated with either outcome. Sixty-three percent of bundle branch blocks (RBBB or LBBB) on the presenting ECG resolved by 24 to 48 hours. In conclusion, compared with ACS patients without cardiac arrest, those with OHCA had higher rates of ST-segment elevation, LBBB, and RBBB on admission. Among OHCA patients, ST-segment elevation was associated with lower in-hospital mortality, whereas LBBB was associated with higher in-hospital and 6-month mortality. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The Effect of Elevated Intra-Abdominal Pressure on TLR4 Signaling in Intestinal Mucosa and on Intestinal Bacterial Translocation in a Rat.

PubMed

Strier, Adam; Kravarusic, Dragan; Coran, Arnold G; Srugo, Isaac; Bitterman, Nir; Dorfman, Tatiana; Pollak, Yulia; Matter, Ibrahim; Sukhotnik, Igor

2017-02-01

Recent evidence suggests that elevated intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) may adversely affect the intestinal barrier function. Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR-4) is responsible for the recognition of bacterial endotoxin or lipopolysaccharide and for initiation of the Gram-negative septic shock syndrome. The objective of the current study was to determine the effects of elevated IAP on intestinal bacterial translocation (BT) and TLR-4 signaling in intestinal mucosa in a rat model. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to one of two experimental groups: sham animals (Sham) and IAP animals who were subjected to a 15 mmHg pressure pneumoperitoneum for 30 minutes. Rats were sacrificed 24 hours later. BT to mesenteric lymph nodes, liver, portal vein blood, and peripheral blood was determined at sacrifice. TLR4-related gene and protein expression (TLR-4; myeloid differentiation factor 88 [Myd88] and TNF-α receptor-associated factor 6 [TRAF6]) expression were determined using real-time PCR, western blotting, and immunohistochemistry. Thirty percent of sham rats developed BT in the mesenteric lymph nodes (level I) and 20% of control rats developed BT in the liver and portal vein (level II). abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) rats demonstrated an 80% BT in the lymph nodes (Level I) and 40% BT in the liver and portal vein (Level II). Elevated BT was accompanied by a significant increase in TLR-4 immunostaining in jejunum (51%) and ileum (35.9%), and in a number of TRAF6-positive cells in jejunum (2.1%) and ileum (24.01%) compared to control animals. ACS rats demonstrated a significant increase in TLR4 and MYD88 protein levels compared to control animals. Twenty-four hours after the induction of elevated IAP in a rat model, increased BT rates were associated with increased TLR4 signaling in intestinal mucosa.

Elevated CO(2) and drought stress effects on the chemical composition of maize plants, their ruminal fermentation and microbial diversity in vitro.

PubMed

Meibaum, Birgit; Riede, Susanne; Schröder, Bernd; Manderscheid, Remy; Weigel, Hans-Joachim; Breves, Gerhard

2012-12-01

Climate changes are supposed to influence productivity and chemical composition of plants. In the present experiments, it was hypothesised that the incubation of plants exposed to elevated atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations ([CO₂]) and drought stress will result in different ruminal fermentation pattern and microbial diversity compared to unaffected plants. Maize plants were grown, well-watered under ambient (380 ppm CO₂, Variant A) and elevated [CO₂] (550 ppm CO₂, Variant B). Furthermore, each CO₂ treatment was also exposed to drought stress (380 ppm and 550 ppm CO₂,Variants C and D, respectively), which received only half as much water as the well-watered plants. Plant material from these treatments was incubated in a semi-continuous in vitro fermentation experiment using the rumen simulation technique. Single strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) analysis was conducted for Bacteria and Archaea specific profiles. The analysis of crude nutrients showed higher contents of fibre fraction in drought stress Variants C and D. Crude protein content was increased by drought stress under ambient but not under elevated [CO₂]. Fermentation of drought stress variants resulted in significantly increased pH values, decreased digestibilities of organic matter and increased ammonia-N (NH₃-N) concentrations compared with well-watered variants. Additionally, the 550 ppm CO₂ Variants B and D showed significantly lower NH₃-N concentrations than Variants A and C. The Bacteria- and Archaea-specific SSCP profiles as well as the production rates of short-chain fatty acids and their molar percentages were not affected by treatments. During the first four days of equilibration period, a decrease of molar percentage of acetate and increased molar percentages of propionate were observed for all treatments. These alterations might have been induced by adaptation of the in vitro system to the new substrate. The rumen microflora appeared to be highly adaptive and could cope with altered contents of crude nutrients in plants as induced by elevated [CO₂] and drought stress.

Significantly Elevated C-Reactive Protein Levels After Epicardial Clipping of the Left Atrial Appendage.

PubMed

Verberkmoes, Niels J; Akca, Ferdi; Vandevenne, Ann-Sofie; Jacobs, Luuk; Soliman Hamad, Mohamed A; van Straten, Albert H M

Besides mechanical and anatomical changes of the left atrium, epicardial closure of the left atrial appendage has also possible homeostatic effects. The aim of this study was to assess whether epicardial clipping of the left atrial appendage has different biochemical effects compared with complete removal of the left atrial appendage. Eighty-two patients were included and underwent a totally thoracoscopic AF ablation procedure. As part of the procedure, the left atrial appendage was excluded with an epicardial clip (n = 57) or the left atrial appendage was fully amputated with an endoscopic vascular stapler (n = 25). From all patients' preprocedural and postprocedural blood pressure, electrolytes and inflammatory parameters were collected. The mean age and left atrial volume index were comparable between the epicardial clip and stapler group (64 ± 8 years vs. 60 ± 9 years, P = non-significant; 44 ± 15 mL/m vs. 40 ± 13 mL/m, P = non-significant). Patients receiving left atrial appendage clipping had significantly elevated C-reactive protein levels compared with patients who had left atrial appendage stapling at the second, third, and fourth postoperative day (225 ± 84 mg/L vs. 149 ± 76 mg/L, P = 0.002, 244 ± 78 vs. 167 ± 76, P = 0.004, 190 ± 74 vs. 105 ± 48, P < 0.001, respectively). Patients had a significant decrease in sodium levels, systolic, and diastolic blood pressure at 24 and 72 hours after left atrial appendage closure. However, this was comparable for both the left atrial appendage clipping and stapling group. Increased activation of the inflammatory response was observed after left atrial appendage clipping compared with left atrial appendage stapling. Furthermore, a significant decrease in blood pressure was observed after surgical removal of the left atrial appendage. Whether the inflammatory response affects the outcome of arrhythmia surgery needs to be further evaluated.

Neuroprotective Effects of Transcription Factor Brn3b in an Ocular Hypertension Rat Model of Glaucoma

PubMed Central

Stankowska, Dorota L.; Minton, Alena Z.; Rutledge, Margaret A.; Mueller, Brett H.; Phatak, Nitasha R.; He, Shaoqing; Ma, Hai-Ying; Forster, Michael J.; Yorio, Thomas; Krishnamoorthy, Raghu R.

2015-01-01

Purpose. Glaucoma is an optic neuropathy commonly associated with elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), leading to optic nerve head (ONH) cupping, axon loss, and apoptosis of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), which could ultimately result in blindness. Brn3b is a class-4 POU domain transcription factor that plays a key role in RGC development, axon outgrowth, and pathfinding. Previous studies suggest that a decrease in Brn3b levels occurs in animal models of glaucoma. The goal of this study was to determine if adeno-associated virus (AAV)-directed overexpression of the Brn3b protein could have neuroprotective effects following elevated IOP-mediated neurodegeneration. Methods. Intraocular pressure was elevated in one eye of Brown Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus), following which the IOP-elevated eyes were intravitreally injected with AAV constructs encoding either the GFP (rAAV-CMV-GFP and rAAV-hsyn-GFP) or Brn3b (rAAV-CMV-Brn3b and rAAV-hsyn-Brn3b). Retina sections through the ONH were stained for synaptic plasticity markers and neuroprotection was assessed by RGC counts and visual acuity tests. Results. Adeno-associated virus–mediated expression of the Brn3b protein in IOP-elevated rat eyes promoted an upregulation of growth associated protein-43 (GAP-43), actin binding LIM protein (abLIM) and acetylated α-tubulin (ac-Tuba) both posterior to the ONH and in RGCs. The RGC survival as well as axon integrity score were significantly improved in IOP-elevated rAAV-hsyn-Brn3b–injected rats compared with those of the IOP-elevated rAAV-hsyn-GFP– injected rats. Additionally, intravitreal rAAV-hsyn-Brn3b administration significantly restored the visual optomotor response in IOP-elevated rat eyes. Conclusions. Adeno-associated virus–mediated Brn3b protein expression may be a suitable approach for promoting neuroprotection in animal models of glaucoma. PMID:25587060

The role of climate in the dynamics of a hybrid zone in Appalachian salamanders

USGS Publications Warehouse

Walls, Susan

2009-01-01

I examined the potential influence of climate change on the dynamics of a previously studied hybrid zone between a pair of terrestrial salamanders at the Coweeta Hydrologic Laboratory, U.S. Forest Service, in the Nantahala Mountains of North Carolina, USA. A 16-year study led by Nelson G. Hairston, Sr. revealed that Plethodon teyahalee and Plethodon shermani hybridized at intermediate elevations, forming a cline between 'pure' parental P. teyahalee at lower elevations and 'pure' parental P. shermani at higher elevations. From 1974 to 1990 the proportion of salamanders at the higher elevation scored as 'pure' P. shermani declined significantly, indicating that the hybrid zone was spreading upward. To date there have been no rigorous tests of hypotheses for the movement of this hybrid zone. Using temperature and precipitation data from Coweeta, I re-analyzed Hairston's data to examine whether the observed elevational shift was correlated with variation in either air temperature or precipitation from the same time period. For temperature, my analysis tracked the results of the original study: the proportion of 'pure' P. shermani at the higher elevation declined significantly with increasing mean annual temperature, whereas the proportion of 'pure' P. teyahalee at lower elevations did not. There was no discernable relationship between proportions of 'pure' individuals of either species with variation in precipitation. From 1974 to 1990, low-elevation air temperatures at the Coweeta Laboratory ranged from annual means of 11.8 to 14.2 °C, compared with a 55-year average (1936-1990) of 12.6 °C. My re-analyses indicate that the upward spread of the hybrid zone is correlated with increasing air temperatures, but not precipitation, and provide an empirical test of a hypothesis for one factor that may have influenced this movement. My results aid in understanding the potential impact that climate change may have on the ecology and evolution of terrestrial salamanders in montane regions.

Chromogranin A as a useful neuroendocrine marker in patients with autoimmune Addison's disease.

PubMed

El Ali, Z; Fichna, M; Piniewska, J; Kosowicz, J; Grzymisławski, M

2010-03-01

Antiparietal cells antibodies (APC-Ab) are commonly found in patients with autoimmune Addison's disease (AAD), usually pointing to autoimmune atrophic gastritis and pernicious anemia. The autoaggression to the gastric proton pumpmay result in a long-term hypergastrinemia, which predisposes to enterochromaffin-like cell hyper/dysplasia and gastric carcinoids. We evaluated the clinical utility of assessing serum chromogranin A levels in patients with AAD. Serum chromogranin A, gastrin, and gastric APC-Ab levels were determined in 40 patients with AAD using commercially available kits. Serum chromogranin A and gastrin levels were found to be elevated in 27.5 and 22.5% of patients with AAD, respectively. The Addison's patients with elevated APC-Ab had significantly higher chromogranin A and gastrin levels, as compared to individuals with normal APC-Ab (chromogranin A: 128.00+/-123.08 vs 57.68+/-36.50 ng/ml, p=0.0036; gastrin: 141.38+/-191.43 vs 49.50+/-75.36 muU/ml, p=0.003). Additionally, the patients with AAD and coexisting elevated serum APC-Ab, contrary to those with normal levels, showed a significant correlation between the chromogranin A and gastrin concentrations (r=0.52, p=0.0092 vs r=0.211, p=0.43). Serum chromogranin A appeared also significantly correlated with APC-Ab levels (r=0.431, p=0.005). In patients with autoimmune Addison's disease hyperchromograninemia and hypergastrinemia occur with a prevalence of 27.5 and 22.5%, respectively. Addison's patients with coexisting elevated gastric APC-Ab, particularly with elevated gastrin levels, are at risk of enterochromaffin-like cells hyper/dysplasia. Serum chromogranin A assessment may complement histology for the early diagnosis of gastric carcinoid in these patients.

Personality Assessment Inventory profiles of veterans: Differential effects of mild traumatic brain injury and psychopathology.

PubMed

Miskey, Holly M; Shura, Robert D; Yoash-Gantz, Ruth E; Rowland, Jared A

2015-09-01

Neuropsychiatric complaints often accompany mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), a common condition in post-deployed Veterans. Self-report, multi-scale personality inventories may elucidate the pattern of psychiatric distress in this cohort. This study investigated valid Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI) profiles in post-deployed Veterans. Measures of psychopathology and mTBI were examined in a sample of 144 post-deployed Veterans divided into groups: healthy controls (n = 40), mTBI only (n = 31), any mental health diagnosis only (MH; n = 25), comorbid mTBI and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (mTBI/PTSD; n = 23), and comorbid mTBI, PTSD, and other psychological diagnoses (mTBI/PTSD/MDD+; n = 25). There were no significant differences between the mTBI and the control group on mean PAI subscale elevation, or number of subscale elevations above 60T or 70T. The other three groups had significantly higher overall mean scores, and more elevations above 60 and 70T compared to both controls and mTBI only. The mTBI/PTSD/MDD+ group showed the highest and most elevations. After entering demographics, PTSD, and number of other psychological diagnoses into hierarchical regressions using the entire sample, mTBI history did not predict mean PAI subscale score or number of elevations above 60T or 70T. PTSD was the only significant predictor. There were no interaction effects between mTBI and presence of PTSD, or between mTBI and total number of diagnoses. This study suggests that mTBI alone is not uniquely related to psychiatric distress in Veterans, but that PTSD accounts for self-reported symptom distress.

Outcomes of Patients Presenting With Clinical Indices of Spontaneous Reperfusion in ST-Elevation Acute Coronary Syndrome Undergoing Deferred Angiography.

PubMed

Fefer, Paul; Beigel, Roy; Atar, Shaul; Aronson, Doron; Pollak, Arthur; Zahger, Doron; Asher, Elad; Iakobishvili, Zaza; Shlomo, Nir; Alcalai, Ronny; Einhorn-Cohen, Michal; Segev, Amit; Goldenberg, Ilan; Matetzky, Shlomi

2017-07-25

Few data are available regarding the optimal management of ST-elevation myocardial infarction patients with clinically defined spontaneous reperfusion (SR). We report on the characteristics and outcomes of patients with SR in the primary percutaneous coronary intervention era, and assess whether immediate reperfusion can be deferred. Data were drawn from a prospective nationwide survey, ACSIS (Acute Coronary Syndrome Israeli Survey). Definition of SR was predefined as both (1) ≥70% reduction in ST-segment elevation on consecutive ECGs and (2) ≥70% resolution of pain. Of 2361 consecutive ST-elevation-acute coronary syndrome patients in Killip class 1, 405 (17%) were not treated with primary reperfusion therapy because of SR. Intervention in SR patients was performed a median of 26 hours after admission. These patients were compared with the 1956 ST-elevation myocardial infarction patients who underwent primary reperfusion with a median door-to-balloon of 66 minutes (interquartile range 38-106). Baseline characteristics were similar except for slightly higher incidence of renal dysfunction and prior angina pectoris in SR patients. Time from symptom onset to medical contact was significantly greater in SR patients. Patients with SR had significantly less in-hospital heart failure (4% versus 11%) and cardiogenic shock (0% versus 2%) ( P <0.01 for all). No significant differences were found in in-hospital mortality (1% versus 2%), 30-day major cardiac events (4% versus 4%), and mortality at 30 days (1% versus 2%) and 1 year (4% versus 4%). Patients with clinically defined SR have a favorable prognosis. Deferring immediate intervention seems to be safe in patients with clinical indices of spontaneous reperfusion. © 2017 The Authors. Published on behalf of the American Heart Association, Inc., by Wiley.

Allosensitization and outcomes in pediatric heart transplantation.

PubMed

Mahle, William T; Tresler, Margaret A; Edens, R Erik; Rusconi, Paolo; George, James F; Naftel, David C; Shaddy, Robert E

2011-11-01

Allosensitization among children being considered for heart transplantation remains a great challenge. Controversy exists as to the best approach for those with elevated panel-reactive antibody (PRA) titers. We sought to define the association between elevated PRA and outcomes using data from the multi-institutional Pediatric Heart Transplant Study Group. Between January 1993 and December 2008, 3,016 patients (>1 month of age) were listed for heart transplantation. PRA data at listing were available for 2,500 (83%) patients, and 2,237 underwent transplantation with PRA data being available for 1,904 (85%). Because various PRA assays were employed (e.g., cell-based and solid phase) we entered the highest value regardless of methodology. Among the factors associated with high PRA at transplant were Status 1 at listing, previous sternotomy and prior Norwood procedure. An elevated PRA at listing was associated with higher risk of death while waiting. Of subjects with PRA ≥ 50% only 57% were transplanted by 1 year on the waitlist, as compared with 76% of those with PRA <10%. Waitlist mortality for the highly allosensitized subjects (≥ PRA 50%) was 19% by 12 months. Survival at 1 year after transplantation was significantly lower in those with PRA ≥ 50% versus those with PRA <10% (73% vs 90%, respectively, p < 0.0001). Those with elevated PRA who had a negative prospective crossmatch had no difference in survival compared with those without allosensitization. There was no significant association between PRA levels and time to first rejection or development of coronary allograft vasculopathy. Significant allosensitization is associated with more than a 2-fold increased risk of death within the first transplant year. Although prospective crossmatching abrogates the risk of post-transplant mortality, it may contribute to higher pre-transplant attrition due to longer waitlist times. There is a critical need for strategies to minimize the impact of allosensitization and antibody-mediated rejection immediately after transplantation. 2011 International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Relationship between Expression of Onco-Related miRNAs and the Endoscopic Appearance of Colorectal Tumors

PubMed Central

Nakagawa, Yoshihito; Akao, Yukihiro; Taniguchi, Kohei; Kamatani, Akemi; Tahara, Tomomitsu; Kamano, Toshiaki; Nakano, Naoko; Komura, Naruomi; Ikuno, Hirokazu; Ohmori, Takafumi; Jodai, Yasutaka; Miyata, Masahiro; Nagasaka, Mistuo; Shibata, Tomoyuki; Ohmiya, Naoki; Hirata, Ichiro

2015-01-01

Accumulating data indicates that certain microRNAs (miRNAs or miRs) are differently expressed in samples of tumors and paired non-tumorous samples taken from the same patients with colorectal tumors. We examined the expression of onco-related miRNAs in 131 sporadic exophytic adenomas or early cancers and in 52 sporadic flat elevated adenomas or early cancers to clarify the relationship between the expression of the miRNAs and the endoscopic morphological appearance of the colorectal tumors. The expression levels of miR-143, -145, and -34a were significantly reduced in most of the exophytic tumors compared with those in the flat elevated ones. In type 2 cancers, the miRNA expression profile was very similar to that of the exophytic tumors. The expression levels of miR-7 and -21 were significantly up-regulated in some flat elevated adenomas compared with those in exophytic adenomas. In contrast, in most of the miR-143 and -145 down-regulated cases of the adenoma-carcinoma sequence and in some of the de novo types of carcinoma, the up-regulation of oncogenic miR-7 and/or -21 contributed to the triggering mechanism leading to the carcinogenetic process. These findings indicated that the expression of onco-related miRNA was associated with the morphological appearance of colorectal tumors. PMID:25584614

Postdeployment Respiratory Health Care Encounters Following Deployment to Kabul, Afghanistan: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

PubMed

Sharkey, Jessica M; Abraham, Joseph H; Clark, Leslie L; Rohrbeck, Patricia; Ludwig, Sharon L; Hu, Zheng; Baird, Coleen P

2016-03-01

Inhalational hazards are numerous in operational environments. A retrospective cohort study was conducted to investigate associations between deployment to Kabul, Afghanistan and subsequent respiratory health among U.S. military personnel. The study population consisted of personnel who deployed to Kabul, select Operation Enduring Freedom locations, personnel stationed in the Republic of Korea, and U.S.-stationed personnel. Incidence rate ratios (IRRs) were estimated for respiratory symptoms, signs, and ill-defined conditions, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. A significantly elevated rate of symptoms, signs, and ill-defined conditions was observed among Kabul-deployed personnel compared to personnel deployed or stationed in Bagram (IRR 1.12; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.05-1.19), Republic of Korea (IRR 1.20; 95% CI, 1.10-1.31), and the United States (IRR 1.52; 95% CI, 1.43-1.62). A statistically elevated rate of asthma was observed among personnel deployed to Kabul, relative to U.S.-stationed personnel (IRR 1.61; 95% CI, 1.22-2.12). Statistically significant rates were not observed for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease among Kabul-deployed personnel compared to other study groups. These findings suggest that deployment to Kabul is associated with an elevated risk of postdeployment respiratory symptoms and new-onset asthma. Reprint & Copyright © 2016 Association of Military Surgeons of the U.S.

Exploring the Abundance and Diversity of Bacterial Communities and Quantifying Antibiotic-Related Genes Along an Elevational Gradient in Taibai Mountain, China.

PubMed

Peng, Chu; Wang, He; Jiang, Yingying; Yang, Jinhua; Lai, Hangxian; Wei, Xiaomin

2018-05-10

Thus far, no studies have investigated the soil microbial diversity over an elevational gradient in Taibai Mountain, the central massif of the Qinling Mountain Range. Here, we used Illumina sequencing and quantitative PCR of the 16S rRNA gene to assess the diversity and abundance of bacterial communities along an elevational gradient in representative vegetation soils in Taibai Mountain. We identified the soil, climate, and vegetation factors driving the variations in soil bacterial community structure by Pearson correlation and redundancy analysis. We also evaluated the potential for antibiotic discovery by quantitative PCR of the PKS-I, PKS-II, and NRPS genes from Actinobacteria. The results showed that soil bacterial alpha diversity increased first and then decreased with an elevational rise in both the northern and southern slopes of Taibai Mountain. The bacterial abundance was significantly correlated with soil organic matter and nitrate nitrogen. The average relative abundance of Actinobacteria in Taibai Mountain was markedly higher than those in other mountain forest soils. The absolute abundance of PKS and NPRS gene was significantly higher in the tested soils compared with the gene copy numbers reported in tropical urban soils. Taibai Mountain is rich in actinomycete resources and has great potential for antibiotic excavation.

Prediction of Tidal Elevations and Barotropic Currents in the Gulf of Bone

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Purnamasari, Rika; Ribal, Agustinus; Kusuma, Jeffry

2018-03-01

Tidal elevation and barotropic current predictions in the gulf of Bone have been carried out in this work based on a two-dimensional, depth-integrated Advanced Circulation (ADCIRC-2DDI) model for 2017. Eight tidal constituents which were obtained from FES2012 have been imposed along the open boundary conditions. However, even using these very high-resolution tidal constituents, the discrepancy between the model and the data from tide gauge is still very high. In order to overcome such issues, Green’s function approach has been applied which reduced the root-mean-square error (RMSE) significantly. Two different starting times are used for predictions, namely from 2015 and 2016. After improving the open boundary conditions, RMSE between observation and model decreased significantly. In fact, RMSEs for 2015 and 2016 decreased 75.30% and 88.65%, respectively. Furthermore, the prediction for tidal elevations as well as tidal current, which is barotropic current, is carried out. This prediction was compared with the prediction conducted by Geospatial Information Agency (GIA) of Indonesia and we found that our prediction is much better than one carried out by GIA. Finally, since there is no tidal current observation available in this area, we assume that, when tidal elevations have been fixed, then the tidal current will approach the actual current velocity.

Detection of increased choline compounds with proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy subsequent to malignant transformation of human prostatic epithelial cells.

PubMed

Ackerstaff, E; Pflug, B R; Nelson, J B; Bhujwalla, Z M

2001-05-01

In this study, a panel of normal human prostate cells (HPCs) and tumor cells derived from metastases were studied by (1)H NMR spectroscopy to determine whether the malignant transformation of HPCs results in the elevation of choline compounds. Although an elevated choline signal has been observed previously in clinical studies, the contribution of the different Cho compounds to this elevation, as well as their quantification, has not been established until now. Here we have shown that HPCs derived from metastases exhibit significantly higher phosphocholine as well as glycerophosphocholine levels compared with normal prostate epithelial and stromal cells. Thus the elevation of the choline peak observed clinically in prostate cancer is attributable to an alteration of phospholipid metabolism and not simply to increased cell density, doubling time, or other nonspecific effects. Androgen deprivation of the androgen receptor-positive cell lines resulted in a significant increase of choline compounds after chronic androgen deprivation of the LNCaP cell line and in a decrease of choline compounds after a more acute androgen deprivation of the LAPC-4 cell line. These data strongly support the use of proton magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging to detect the presence of prostate cancer for diagnosis, to detect response subsequent to androgen ablation therapy, and to detect recurrence.

Point-of-Decision Signs and Stair Use in a University Worksite Setting: General Versus Specific Messages.

PubMed

Eckhardt, Mary R; Kerr, Jacqueline; Taylor, Wendell C

2015-01-01

This study tested the effectiveness of two point-of-decision signs to increase stair use and investigated message content by comparing signs with general and specific messages. This study used a quasi-experimental time series design, including a 2-week baseline period: 2 weeks with a general message and 2 weeks with a specific message. The signs were placed in an eight-story university building. The subjects comprised all adults entering the building. During the study, 2997 observations of stair/elevator choice were made. A stair-prompt sign with a general message and a sign with a specific message served as the interventions. Observers measured stair/elevator choice, demographics, and traffic volume. Logistic regression analyses were employed, adjusting for covariates. The specific sign intervention showed significantly increased odds of stair use compared to baseline (odds ratio [OR] = 2.04, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.46-2.84). The odds of stair use were also significantly greater with the specific sign than the general sign (OR = 1.57, 95% CI = 1.13-2.20). Only the specific sign significantly increased stair use. The results indicate that a specific message may be more effective at promoting stair use.

Influence of Exogenous β-Hydroxybutyrate on Walking Economy and Rating of Perceived Exertion.

PubMed

James, Shaun; Kjerulf Greer, Beau

2018-06-28

This study investigates the effect of a supplementary ketone, β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), on walking economy and ratings of perceived exertion in apparently healthy individuals. In a repeated-measures, crossover design, ten non-aerobically trained participants (three males; seven females) performed two stages of a duration-modified Bruce treadmill protocol. Participants blindly consumed either 1 ounce of an exogenous BHB solution (KETO) or a noncaloric placebo (CON) 30 minutes prior to exercise testing. Blood ketone and glucose concentrations were measured prior to supplementation (baseline), immediately before exercise, and after exercise. Oxygen consumption (VO 2 ), respiratory exchange ratio (RER), energy expenditure (EE), and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were recorded during the last two minutes of each stage. Blood BHB concentrations were significantly elevated at the pre-exercise and postexercise time points as compared to the CON condition (p < .001), and blood glucose was significantly elevated postexercise in both conditions as compared to baseline levels (p < .001). No significant between-trial differences (p > .05) were found for VO 2 , RER, EE, or RPE. The intervention of this study did not produce evidence of an ergogenic benefit from BHB supplementation in a healthy subject pool.

Influences of prostanoids and nitric oxide on post-suspension hypotension in female Sprague-Dawley rats

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Eatman, D.; Listhrop, R. A.; Beasley, A. S.; Socci, R. R.; Abukhalaf, I.; Bayorh, M. A.

2003-01-01

Impairment in cardiovascular functions sometimes manifested in astronauts during standing postflight, may be related to the diminished autonomic function and/or excessive production of endothelium-dependent relaxing factors. In the present study, using the 30 degrees head-down tilt (HDT) model, we compared the cardiovascular and biochemical effects of 7 days of suspension and a subsequent 6-h post-suspension period between suspended and non-suspended conscious female Sprague-Dawley rats. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate were measured prior to suspension (basal), daily thereafter, and every 2h post-suspension. Following 7 days of suspension, MAP was not different from their basal values, however, upon release from suspension, MAP was significantly reduced compared to the non-suspended rats. Nitric oxide levels were elevated while thromboxane A(2) levels declined significantly in both plasma and tissue samples following post-suspension. The levels of prostacyclin following post-suspension remained unaltered in plasma and aortic rings but was significantly elevated in carotid arterial rings. Therefore, the post-suspension reduction in mean arterial pressure is due mostly to overproduction of nitric oxide and to a lesser extent prostacyclin.

Evaluation of reactive oxygen metabolites in patients with non-small cell lung cancer after chemotherapy.

PubMed

Wakabayashi, Toru; Kawashima, Tatsuo; Matsuzawa, Yasuo

2014-01-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the level of reactive oxygen metabolites (ROMs) after chemotherapy in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and its association with response to treatment. Fifty-eight untreated NSCLC patients and twenty-three healthy subjects were selected for the study. Patients received two courses of platinum-based chemotherapy and were evaluated for oxidative stress and treatment response. As a marker of reactive oxygen species, ROMs levels were measured using the d-ROMs test. ROMs level (mean ± standard deviation) before chemotherapy in NSCLC patients (416 ± 135 U.CARR) was significantly elevated (p = 0.016) compared to normal healthy subjects (320 ± 59 U.CARR). Patients who responded to chemotherapy showed significantly decreased (p = 0.014) ROMs levels after chemotherapy, whereas patients who had stable disease or progressive disease showed no change in ROMs level (p = 0.387). NSCLC patients had significantly elevated ROMs levels before chemotherapy compared with normal healthy subjects. Chemotherapy may suppress ROMs production in responders but not in non-responders. ROMs level may be a predictor of clinical outcome in patients receiving chemotherapy for NSCLC.

Pregnancy related changes in human salivary secretion and composition in a Nigerian population.

PubMed

Lasisi, T J; Ugwuadu, P N

2014-12-01

A variety of physiological changes occurring during pregnancy has been shown to affect the oral health. Saliva is critical for preserving and maintaining the health of oral tissues and has been used as a source of non-invasive investigation of different conditions in human and animal studies. This study was designed to evaluate changes in secretion and composition of saliva in pregnant women in a Nigerian population. This was a descriptive cross-sectional study using purposive sampling technique. Saliva samples were collected from 50 pregnant and age matched 50 non-pregnant women. Salivary flow rate, pH, total protein and concentrations of sodium, potassium, calcium, phosphate and bicarbonate were determined and compared using paired independent sample t test. Salivary pH,mean concentrations of potassium and bicarbonate were significantly reduced while mean concentrations of salivary sodium and phosphate were significantly elevated in pregnant women compared to non-pregnant women (P < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference in the salivary flow rate, concentrations of total protein and calcium. Salivary pH, bicarbonate and potassium concentrations were reduced while sodium and phosphate concentrations were elevated in pregnant women. These findings suggest that pregnant women may be predisposed to higher caries incidence.

Lamin A/C deficiency reduces circulating tumor cell resistance to fluid shear stress

PubMed Central

Denais, Celine; Chan, Maxine F.; Wang, Zhexiao; Lammerding, Jan

2015-01-01

Metastasis contributes to over 90% of cancer-related deaths and is initiated when cancer cells detach from the primary tumor, invade the basement membrane, and enter the circulation as circulating tumor cells (CTCs). While metastasis is viewed as an inefficient process with most CTCs dying within the bloodstream, it is evident that some CTCs are capable of resisting hemodynamic shear forces to form secondary tumors in distant tissues. We hypothesized that nuclear lamins A and C (A/C) act as key structural components within CTCs necessary to resist destruction from elevated shear forces of the bloodstream. Herein, we show that, compared with nonmalignant epithelial cells, tumor cells are resistant to elevated fluid shear forces in vitro that mimic those within the bloodstream, as evidenced by significant decreases in cellular apoptosis and necrosis. Knockdown of lamin A/C significantly reduced tumor cell resistance to fluid shear stress, with significantly increased cell death compared with parental tumor cell and nontargeting controls. Interestingly, lamin A/C knockdown increased shear stress-induced tumor cell apoptosis, but did not significantly affect cellular necrosis. These data demonstrate that lamin A/C is an important structural component that enables tumor cell resistance to fluid shear stress-mediated death in the bloodstream, and may thus facilitate survival and hematogenous metastasis of CTCs. PMID:26447202

Exploring online communication about cigarette smoking among Twitter users who self-identify as having schizophrenia.

PubMed

Hswen, Yulin; Naslund, John A; Chandrashekar, Pooja; Siegel, Robert; Brownstein, John S; Hawkins, Jared B

2017-11-01

Novel approaches are needed to address elevated tobacco use among people with schizophrenia. This exploratory study examined the frequency, timing, and type of communication about tobacco-related content on Twitter among users who self-identify as having schizophrenia compared with users from the general population. Over a 200-day period from January to July 2016, Twitter users who self-identify as having a schizophrenia spectrum disorder (n = 203) and a randomly selected group of general population control users (n = 173) posted 1,544,122 tweets. Communication frequency did not differ between groups. Tweets containing tobacco-related keywords were extracted. Twitter users with schizophrenia posted significantly more tweets containing any tobacco-related terms (mean = 3.74; SD = 16.3) compared with control users (mean = 0.82; SD = 1.8). A significantly greater proportion of Twitter users with schizophrenia (45%; n = 92) posted tweets containing any tobacco terms compared with control users (30%; n = 52). Schizophrenia users showed significantly greater odds of tweeting about tobacco compared with control users (OR = 1.99; 95% CI 1.29-3.07). These findings suggest that online communication about tobacco may parallel real world trends of elevated tobacco use observed among people with schizophrenia. By showing that Twitter users who self-identify as having schizophrenia discuss tobacco-related content online, popular social media could inform smoking cessation efforts targeting this at-risk group. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Polyclonal and allergen-induced cytokine responses in children with elevated immunoglobulin E but no atopic disease.

PubMed

Smart, J M; Tang, M L K; Kemp, A S

2002-11-01

Reduced Th1 and elevated Th2 cytokine responses are considered to be a principal mechanism in the generation of the inflammation leading to the manifestations of atopic disease in the skin of atopic dermatitis and in the airways of asthma. If reduced Th1 and elevated Th2 responses are principal determinants of the manifestation of atopic disease it might be expected that subjects with established disease would exhibit differences in their cytokine profiles as compared with atopic patients without clinical disease. To determine whether asymptomatic atopic children exhibit a cytokine imbalance similar to that seen in patients with established atopic disease or if they behave like non-atopic controls. Cytokine responses in a group of children with elevated IgE but no clinical manifestations of disease, atopic children with established disease and non-atopic controls were compared. We examined allergen-induced (house dust mite, HDM, rye grass pollen and RYE) cytokine responses in parallel with polyclonal (staphylococcal enterotoxin B, SEB) cytokine responses in a group of children with elevated serum IgE levels without current or past evidence of atopic disease (median age 6.6 years) and compared these with a non-atopic control group (median age 6.5 years) and a group of children with atopic disease (median age 6.7 years). Symptomatic atopic children had reduced SEB-induced IFN-gamma and increased SEB-induced IL-4 and IL-5 as compared with non-atopic controls. In contrast, SEB-induced IFN-gamma, IL-4 and IL-5 production in asymptomatic atopics was not significantly different from the non-atopic control subjects. Allergen-induced Th1 (IFN-gamma) and Th2 (IL-5 and IL-13) cytokine production was increased in both symptomatic atopics and asymptomatic atopics when compared with non-atopic controls. The defect in polyclonally induced IFN-gamma production was associated with the clinical manifestation of atopic disease but not the atopic stateper se. This suggests that the global reduction in IFN-gamma is the key determinant of the development of overt atopic disease. In contrast, elevated allergen-induced Th2 cytokine responses in children related to the atopic state per se irrespective of the presence of clinical atopic disease.

Can rising CO2 concentrations in the atmosphere mitigate the impact of drought years on tree growth?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Achim, Alexis; Plumpton, Heather; Auty, David; Ogee, Jerome; MacCarthy, Heather; Bert, Didier; Domec, Jean-Christophe; Oren, Ram; Wingate, Lisa

2015-04-01

Atmospheric CO2 concentrations and nitrogen deposition rates have increased substantially over the last century and are expected to continue unabated. As a result, terrestrial ecosystems will experience warmer temperatures and some may even experience droughts of a more intense and frequent nature that could lead to widespread forest mortality. Thus there is mounting pressure to understand and predict how forest growth will be affected by such environmental interactions in the future. In this study we used annual tree growth data from the Duke Free Air CO2 Enrichment (FACE) experiment to determine the effects of elevated atmospheric CO2 concentration (+200 ppm) and Nitrogen fertilisation (11.2 g of N m-2 yr-1) on the stem biomass increments of mature loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) trees from 1996 to 2010. A non-linear mixed-effects model was developed to provide estimates of annual ring specific gravity in all trees using cambial age and annual ring width as explanatory variables. Elevated CO2 did not have a significant effect on annual ring specific gravity, but N fertilisation caused a slight decrease of approximately 2% compared to the non-fertilised in both the ambient and CO2-elevated plots. When basal area increments were multiplied by wood specific gravity predictions to provide estimates of stem biomass, there was a 40% increase in the CO2-elevated plots compared to those in ambient conditions. This difference remained relatively stable until the application of the fertilisation treatment, which caused a further increase in biomass increments that peaked after three years. Unexpectedly the magnitude of this second response was similar in the CO2-elevated and ambient plots (about 25% in each after 3 years), suggesting that there was no interaction between the concentration of CO2 and the availability of soil N on biomass increments. Importantly, during drier years when annual precipitation was less than 1000 mm we observed a significant decrease in annual increments across all treatments. However, the relative difference in growth between CO2-elevated and ambient plots was greater during drought years, providing evidence that tree growth in the future might become less sensitive to water shortages under elevated CO2 conditions.

Viscous Energy Loss in the Presence of Abnormal Aortic Flow

PubMed Central

Barker, A.J.; van Ooij, P.; Bandi, K.; Garcia, J.; Albaghdadi, M.; McCarthy, P.; Bonow, R. O.; Carr, J.; Collins, J.; Malaisrie, C.; Markl, M.

2014-01-01

Purpose To present a theoretical basis for noninvasively characterizing in vivo fluid-mechanical energy losses, and to apply it in a pilot study of patients known to express abnormal aortic flow patterns. Methods 4D flow MRI was used to characterize laminar viscous energy losses in the aorta of normal controls (n=12, age=37±10), patients with aortic dilation (n=16, age=52±8), and patients with aortic valve stenosis matched for age and aortic size (n=14, age=46±15), using a relationship between the 3D velocity field and viscous energy dissipation. Results Viscous energy loss was significantly elevated in the thoracic aorta for patients with dilated aorta (3.6±1.3 mW, p=0.024) and patients with aortic stenosis (14.3±8.2 mW, p<0.001) compared to healthy volunteers (2.3±0.9 mW). The same pattern of significant differences were seen in the ascending aorta, where viscous energy losses in patients with dilated aortas (2.2±1.1 mW, p=0.021) and patients with aortic stenosis (10.9±6.8 mW, p<0.001) were elevated compared to healthy volunteers (1.2±0.6 mW). Conclusion This technique provides a capability to quantify the contribution of abnormal laminar blood flow to increased ventricular afterload. In this pilot study, viscous energy loss in patient cohorts was significantly elevated and indicates that cardiac afterload is increased due to abnormal flow. PMID:24122967

Step It UP: a multicomponent intervention to increase stair use in a university residence building.

PubMed

Howie, Erin Kaye; Young, Deborah Rohm

2011-01-01

Examine the effects of a multicomponent intervention on stair usage. Nonrandomized controlled intervention. Two multistory university dormitories. Total of 5711 direct observations of university dormitory residents. The 2-week "Step It UP" intervention used poster prompts and fun/competitive challenges with incentives to encourage residents to take the stairs instead of the elevators. Ascending stair and elevator use was directly observed and coded for gender at high traffic times in intervention and control dormitories for 14 nonconsecutive hours over 1 week each at baseline, midintervention, and 1 week postintervention. The proportions of ascending stair and elevator users were compared using χ(2) analyses. Baseline stair use was equal between intervention and control dormitories (24.9% and 27.8%, respectively; χ(2)[1, N  =  1849]  =  .08; p  =  .77). Stair use significantly increased from baseline in the intervention dormitory to 33.24% (χ(2)[1, N  =  2192]  =  18.44; p < .001) compared with no change in the control. Stair use returned to baseline in the intervention dormitory at postintervention (25.4%; χ(2)[1, N  =  2297]  =  .08; p  =  .78). There were no significant differences between genders. This multicomponent, short-duration intervention significantly increased stair usage in a university dormitory relative to the control but was unable to sustain the increase when prompts were removed. Campaigns to sustain stair use are needed. Formative assessment is required to determine what combinations of components may yield the most cost-effective approach for future interventions.

The effect of blood cell count on coronary flow in patients with coronary slow flow phenomenon

PubMed Central

Soylu, Korhan; Gulel, Okan; Yucel, Huriye; Yuksel, Serkan; Aksan, Gokhan; Soylu, Ayşegül İdil; Demircan, Sabri; Yılmaz, Özcan; Sahin, Mahmut

2014-01-01

Background and Objective: The coronary slow flow phenomenon (CSFP) is a coronary artery disease with a benign course, but its pathological mechanisms are not yet fully understood.The purpose of this controlled study was to investigate the cellular content of blood in patients diagnosed with CSFP and the relationship of this with coronary flow rates. Methods: Selective coronary angiographies of 3368 patients were analyzed to assess Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) frame count (TFC) values. Seventy eight of them had CSFP, and their demographic and laboratory findings were compared with 61 patients with normal coronary flow. Results: Patients’ demographic characteristics were similar in both groups. Mean corrected TFC (cTFC) values were significantly elevated in CSFP patients (p<0.001). Furthermore, hematocrit and hemoglobin values, and eosinophil and basophil counts of the CSFP patients were significantly elevated compared to the values obtained in the control group (p=0.005, p=0.047, p=0.001 and p=0.002, respectively). The increase observed in hematocrit and eosinophil levels showed significant correlations with increased TFC values (r=0.288 and r=0.217, respectively). Conclusion: Significant changes have been observed in the cellular composition of blood in patients diagnosed with CSFP as compared to the patients with normal coronary blood flow. The increases in hematocrit levels and in the eosinophil and basophil counts may have direct or indirect effects on the rate of coronary blood flow. PMID:25225502

Alternative oxidase impacts ganoderic acid biosynthesis by regulating intracellular ROS levels in Ganoderma lucidum.

PubMed

Shi, Deng-Ke; Zhu, Jing; Sun, Ze-Hua; Zhang, Guang; Liu, Rui; Zhang, Tian-Jun; Wang, Sheng-Li; Ren, Ang; Zhao, Ming-Wen

2017-10-01

The alternative oxidase (AOX), which forms a branch of the mitochondrial respiratory electron transport pathway, functions to sustain electron flux and alleviate reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. In this article, a homologous AOX gene was identified in Ganoderma lucidum. The coding sequence of the AOX gene in G. lucidum contains 1038 nucleotides and encodes a protein of 39.48 kDa. RNA interference (RNAi) was used to study the function of AOX in G. lucidum, and two silenced strains (AOXi6 and AOXi21) were obtained, showing significant decreases of approximately 60 and 50 %, respectively, in alternative pathway respiratory efficiency compared to WT. The content of ganoderic acid (GA) in the mutant strains AOXi6 and AOXi21 showed significant increases of approximately 42 and 44 %, respectively, compared to WT. Elevated contents of intermediate metabolites in GA biosynthesis and elevated transcription levels of corresponding genes were also observed in the mutant strains AOXi6 and AOXi21. In addition, the intracellular ROS content in strains AOXi6 and AOXi21 was significantly increased, by approximately 1.75- and 1.93-fold, respectively, compared with WT. Furthermore, adding N-acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC), a ROS scavenger, significantly depressed the intracellular ROS content and GA accumulation in AOX-silenced strains. These results indicate that AOX affects GA biosynthesis by regulating intracellular ROS levels. Our research revealed the important role of AOX in the secondary metabolism of G. lucidum.

A cross-sectional case control study on genetic damage in individuals residing in the vicinity of a mobile phone base station.

PubMed

Gandhi, Gursatej; Kaur, Gurpreet; Nisar, Uzma

2015-01-01

Mobile phone base stations facilitate good communication, but the continuously emitting radiations from these stations have raised health concerns. Hence in this study, genetic damage using the single cell gel electrophoresis (comet) assay was assessed in peripheral blood leukocytes of individuals residing in the vicinity of a mobile phone base station and comparing it to that in healthy controls. The power density in the area within 300 m from the base station exceeded the permissive limits and was significantly (p = 0.000) higher compared to the area from where control samples were collected. The study participants comprised 63 persons with residences near a mobile phone tower, and 28 healthy controls matched for gender, age, alcohol drinking and occupational sub-groups. Genetic damage parameters of DNA migration length, damage frequency (DF) and damage index were significantly (p = 0.000) elevated in the sample group compared to respective values in healthy controls. The female residents (n = 25) of the sample group had significantly (p = 0.004) elevated DF than the male residents (n = 38). The linear regression analysis further revealed daily mobile phone usage, location of residence and power density as significant predictors of genetic damage. The genetic damage evident in the participants of this study needs to be addressed against future disease-risk, which in addition to neurodegenerative disorders, may lead to cancer.

Stress and serum TNF-alpha levels may predict disease outcome in patients with pemphigus: a preliminary study.

PubMed

Ragab, Nader; Abdallah, Marwa; El-Gohary, Eman; Elewa, Rana

2011-04-01

The aim of the current preliminary case-control study was to estimate the initial serum levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) in case patients with pemphigus vulgaris (PV) and pemphigus foliaceus (PF) and correlate them with history of stress, body surface area (BSA) affected, disease severity, and disease outcome. Ten PV and 4 PF case patients as well as 7 healthy matched controls had their serum levels of TNF-alpha measured by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Case patients were treated and followed up for 2 months. A statistically significant elevation in serum levels of TNF-alpha in PV case patients compared with controls and in PV case patients compared with PF case patients was detected (P < .05), with no significant difference between PF case patients and controls (P > .05). No significant correlation was detected between the serum levels of TNF-alpha and the BSA affected (P > .05). Four PV case patients had a bad disease outcome, of which 3 had severe emotional stress a month prior to the onset of the attack. All 4 showed significantly elevated initial serum levels of TNF-alpha compared with those who had a good disease outcome (P < .05). Emotional stress is a factor affecting prognosis of the disease. Pretreatment assessment of serum TNF-alpha levels in patients with pemphigus may be a guide to the expected prognosis and selection of the proper treatment regimen.

Evaluation of point-of-care test for elevated tear matrix metalloproteinase 9 in post-LASIK dry eyes.

PubMed

Chan, Tommy C Y; Ye, Cong; Chan, Kwok Ping; Chu, Kai On; Jhanji, Vishal

2016-09-01

To evaluate the performance of a point-of-care test for detection of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) levels in post-laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) dry eyes. A comparative study between patients with mild to moderate post-LASIK dry eyes and age-matched normal subjects was conducted. Ocular surface disease index (OSDI), tear break-up time (TBUT), and tear film MMP-9 and total protein levels were compared between the two groups. A point-of-care test device (RPS InflammaDry, Sarasota, Florida, USA) was utilised to confirm elevated MMP-9 levels in tear film. Fourteen post-LASIK dry eyes and 34 normal eyes were included. There was no significant difference in age and gender between both groups (p>0.175). The OSDI was significantly higher (25.5±7.7 vs 7.4±2.5; p<0.001) and TBUT levels were significantly lower (5.4±0.9 vs 13.5±2.3; p<0.001) in patients with dry eye compared with normal subjects. The tear film MMP-9 levels were 52.7±32.5 ng/mL in dry eyes and 4.1±2.1 ng/mL in normal eyes (p<0.001). MMP-9 levels were >40 ng/mL in 7/14 (50.0%) post-LASIK dry eyes. The InflammaDry was positive in 8/14 (57.1%) post-LASIK eyes. All positive cases had tear film MMP-9 levels ≥38.03 ng/mL. Agreement between InflammaDry and MMP-9 was excellent with Cohen κ value of 0.857 in post-LASIK dry eyes. Only half of post-LASIK dry eyes were found to have significant inflammation associated with elevated MMP-9. The OSDI is useful to non-specifically identify patients with symptomatic dry eye while the InflammaDry determined which patients with dry eye were associated with significant inflammation that may guide therapeutic management decisions. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/

Methylation of Hg downstream from the Bonanza Hg mine, Oregon

USGS Publications Warehouse

Gray, John E.; Hines, Mark E.; Krabbenhoft, David P.; Thoms, Bryn

2012-01-01

Speciation of Hg and conversion to methyl-Hg were evaluated in stream sediment, stream water, and aquatic snails collected downstream from the Bonanza Hg mine, Oregon. Total production from the Bonanza mine was >1360t of Hg, during mining from the late 1800s to 1960, ranking it as an intermediate sized Hg mine on an international scale. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the distribution, transport, and methylation of Hg downstream from a Hg mine in a coastal temperate climatic zone. Data shown here for methyl-Hg, a neurotoxin hazardous to humans, are the first reported for sediment and water from this area. Stream sediment collected from Foster Creek flowing downstream from the Bonanza mine contained elevated Hg concentrations that ranged from 590 to 71,000ng/g, all of which (except the most distal sample) exceeded the probable effect concentration (PEC) of 1060ng/g, the Hg concentration above which harmful effects are likely to be observed in sediment-dwelling organisms. Concentrations of methyl-Hg in stream sediment collected from Foster Creek varied from 11 to 62ng/g and were highly elevated compared to regional baseline concentrations (0.11-0.82ng/g) established in this study. Methyl-Hg concentrations in stream sediment collected in this study showed a significant correlation with total organic C (TOC, R2=0.62), generally indicating increased methyl-Hg formation with increasing TOC in sediment. Isotopic-tracer methods indicated that several samples of Foster Creek sediment exhibited high rates of Hg-methylation. Concentrations of Hg in water collected downstream from the mine varied from 17 to 270ng/L and were also elevated compared to baselines, but all were below the 770ng/L Hg standard recommended by the USEPA to protect against chronic effects to aquatic wildlife. Concentrations of methyl-Hg in the water collected from Foster Creek ranged from 0.17 to 1.8ng/L, which were elevated compared to regional baseline sites upstream and downstream from the mine that varied from <0.02 to 0.22ng/L. Aquatic snails collected downstream from the mine were elevated in Hg indicating significant bioavailability and uptake of Hg by these snails. Results for sediment and water indicated significant methyl-Hg formation in the ecosystem downstream from the Bonanza mine, which is enhanced by the temperate climate, high precipitation in the area, and high organic matter.

Elevated Choline-Containing Compound Levels in Rapid Cycling Bipolar Disorder.

PubMed

Cao, Bo; Stanley, Jeffrey A; Passos, Ives Cavalcante; Mwangi, Benson; Selvaraj, Sudhakar; Zunta-Soares, Giovana B; Soares, Jair C

2017-10-01

Previous studies have found increased levels of choline-containing compounds (ie, glycerophosphocholine plus phosphocholine (GPC+PC)) in bipolar disorder using in vivo proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy ( 1 H MRS), especially in bipolar I disorder (BD-I). Increased levels of GPC+PC suggest alterations in the membrane phospholipids metabolism in bipolar disorder. Rapid cycling (RC) bipolar disorder is considered as a severe course of bipolar disorder, but it is unclear whether rapid cycling bipolar disorder is linked to highly altered membrane phospholipid metabolism. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the regional extent of elevated GPC+PC were greater in BD-I patients with rapid cycling compared to BD-I patients without rapid cycling and healthy controls. Using a multi-voxel 1 H MRS approach at 3 Tesla with high spatial resolution and absolute quantification, GPC+PC levels from the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), caudate and putamen of 16 RC BD-I, 34 non-RC BD-I and 44 healthy controls were assessed. We found significantly elevated GPC+PC levels in ACC, putamen and caudate of RC BD-I patients compared to healthy controls (P<0.005) and in ACC compared to non-RC BD-I patients (P<0.05). These results suggest greater alteration of membrane phospholipid metabolisms in rapid cycling BD-I compared to non-rapid-cycling BD-I.

Gut microbiota composition is correlated to grid floor induced stress and behavior in the BALB/c mouse.

PubMed

Bangsgaard Bendtsen, Katja Maria; Krych, Lukasz; Sørensen, Dorte Bratbo; Pang, Wanyong; Nielsen, Dennis Sandris; Josefsen, Knud; Hansen, Lars H; Sørensen, Søren J; Hansen, Axel Kornerup

2012-01-01

Stress has profound influence on the gastro-intestinal tract, the immune system and the behavior of the animal. In this study, the correlation between gut microbiota composition determined by Denaturing Grade Gel Electrophoresis (DGGE) and tag-encoded 16S rRNA gene amplicon pyrosequencing (454/FLX) and behavior in the Tripletest (Elevated Plus Maze, Light/Dark Box, and Open Field combined), the Tail Suspension Test, and Burrowing in 28 female BALB/c mice exposed to two weeks of grid floor induced stress was investigated. Cytokine and glucose levels were measured at baseline, during and after exposure to grid floor. Stressing the mice clearly changed the cecal microbiota as determined by both DGGE and pyrosequencing. Odoribacter, Alistipes and an unclassified genus from the Coriobacteriaceae family increased significantly in the grid floor housed mice. Compared to baseline, the mice exposed to grid floor housing changed the amount of time spent in the Elevated Plus Maze, in the Light/Dark Box, and burrowing behavior. The grid floor housed mice had significantly longer immobility duration in the Tail Suspension Test and increased their number of immobility episodes from baseline. Significant correlations were found between GM composition and IL-1α, IFN-γ, closed arm entries of Elevated Plus Maze, total time in Elevated Plus Maze, time spent in Light/Dark Box, and time spent in the inner zone of the Open Field as well as total time in the Open Field. Significant correlations were found to the levels of Firmicutes, e.g. various species of Ruminococccaceae and Lachnospiraceae. No significant difference was found for the evaluated cytokines, except an overall decrease in levels from baseline to end. A significant lower level of blood glucose was found in the grid floor housed mice, whereas the HbA1c level was significantly higher. It is concluded that grid floor housing changes the GM composition, which seems to influence certain anxiety-related parameters.

Early Elevations of the Complement Activation Fragment C3a and Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes

PubMed Central

Lynch, Anne M.; Gibbs, Ronald S.; Murphy, James R.; Giclas, Patricia C.; Salmon, Jane E.; Holers, V. Michael

2016-01-01

OBJECTIVE To estimate whether elevations of complement C3a early in pregnancy are predictive of the subsequent development of adverse pregnancy outcomes. METHODS A plasma sample was obtained from each enrolled pregnant woman before 20 weeks of gestation. The cohort (n=1,002) was evaluated for the development of adverse pregnancy outcomes defined as hypertensive diseases of pregnancy (gestational hypertension or preeclampsia), preterm birth (before 37 weeks of gestation), premature rupture of the membranes, pregnancy loss (during the embryonic and fetal period), intrauterine growth restriction, and the composite outcome of any adverse outcome. RESULTS One or more adverse pregnancy outcomes occurred in 211 (21%) of the cohort. The mean levels (ng/mL) of C3a in early pregnancy were significantly (P=<.001) higher among women with one or more adverse outcomes (858±435) compared with women with an uncomplicated pregnancy (741±407). Adjusted for parity and prepregnancy body mass index, women with levels of C3a in the upper quartile in early pregnancy were three times more likely to have an adverse outcome later in pregnancy compared with women in the lowest quartile (95% confidence interval, 1.8–4.8; P<.001). The link between early elevated C3a levels and adverse pregnancy outcomes was driven primarily by individual significant (P<.05) associations of C3a with hypertensive diseases of pregnancy, preterm birth, and premature rupture of the membranes. CONCLUSION Elevated C3a as early as the first trimester of pregnancy is an independent predictive factor for adverse pregnancy outcomes, suggesting that complement-related inflammatory events in pregnancy contribute to the subsequent development of poor outcomes at later stages of pregnancy. PMID:21173647

The influence of light hypothenar contact during a reaching movement on the centre of pressure (COP) forward displacement.

PubMed

Rugelj, Darja; Trontelj, Jože V; Strojnik, Vojko

2013-01-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of additional light hand contact (F<1 N) in the region of the hypothenar eminence on forward movement of the center of pressure (COP) and dominant hand. Subjects sled their hypothenar eminence on a vertically-oriented pressure sensitive board while reaching forward beyond their arm length. In the two separate experiments forty nine healthy, college-aged volunteers participated in the study. Thirty subjects (mean age of 22.2±2.4 years, 6 male and 24 female) participated in the experiment on level ground and nineteen subjects (22±2.6 years, 5 male and 14 female) in the experiment on an elevated surface. The forward displacement of the COP was significantly larger (p = 0.002) when subjects were allowed to slide with the hand as compared to no contact when the activity occurred on level ground (84±10 mm and 79±11 mm, respectively), and on a one meter elevated surface (71±17 mm and 65±21 mm, respectively). The maximal forward reach of the dominant hand was significantly greater when subjects were allowed to slide with the hypothenar eminence as compared to the no contact condition on the level ground (336±35 mm and 344±38 mm, respectively, p<0.02), and on the one meter elevated surface (298±58 mm and 307±58 mm, respectively, p<0.01). This data indicate that subjects were able to use additional haptic information from the hypothenar region to bring their COP and dominant hand further forward while standing on level ground as well as on a one m elevated surface.

Determinants of elevated pulse pressure in middle-aged and older subjects with uncomplicated systolic hypertension: the role of proximal aortic diameter and the aortic pressure-flow relationship.

PubMed

Mitchell, Gary F; Lacourcière, Yves; Ouellet, Jean-Pascal; Izzo, Joseph L; Neutel, Joel; Kerwin, Linda J; Block, Alan J; Pfeffer, Marc A

2003-09-30

Elevated pulse pressure (PP) is associated with increased cardiovascular risk and is thought to be secondary to elastin fragmentation with secondary collagen deposition and stiffening of the aortic wall, leading to a dilated, noncompliant vasculature. By use of calibrated tonometry and pulsed Doppler, arterial stiffness and pulsatile hemodynamics were assessed in 128 subjects with uncomplicated systolic hypertension (supine systolic pressure > or =140 mm Hg off medication) and 30 normotensive control subjects of comparable age and gender. Pulse-wave velocity was assessed from tonometry and body surface measurements. Characteristic impedance (Zc) was calculated from the ratio of change in carotid pressure and aortic flow in early systole. Effective aortic diameter was assessed by use of the water hammer equation. Hypertensives were heavier (P<0.001) and had higher PP (P<0.001), which was attributable primarily to higher Zc (P<0.001), especially in women. Pulse-wave velocity was higher in hypertensives (P=0.001); however, this difference was not significant after adjustment for differences in mean arterial pressure (MAP) (P>0.153), whereas increased Zc remained highly significant (P<0.001). Increased Zc in women and in hypertensive men was attributable to decreased effective aortic diameter, with no difference in wall stiffness at comparable MAP and body weight. Elevated PP in systolic hypertension was independent of MAP and was attributable primarily to elevated Zc and reduced effective diameter of the proximal aorta. These findings are not consistent with the hypothesis of secondary aortic degeneration, dilation, and wall stiffening but rather suggest that aortic function may play an active role in the pathophysiology of systolic hypertension.

Elevated anti-Mullerian hormone in lean women may not indicate polycystic ovarian syndrome.

PubMed

Bradbury, Rachel A; Lee, Paul; Smith, Howard C

2017-10-01

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous disorder with clinical features shared with functional hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism (FHH). To investigate the usefulness of an elevated (>40 pmol/L) anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) in identifying PCOS and distinguishing PCOS from FHH. 141 patients with an elevated AMH and body mass index either <20 kg/m 2 (lean) or >30 kg/m 2 (obese) were selected and three subgroups analysed - obese, lean, lean with suspected FHH. FHH was diagnosed clinically, incorporating diet, weight and exercise history; confirmatory tests included pituitary MRIs, progestin challenges and endometrial thickness measurements. PCOS features of oligo/anovulation, polycystic ovarian morphology (PCOm) and hyperandrogenism were determined by clinical history, pelvic ultrasound, free androgen index and physical examination, respectively. Features of PCOS and blood levels of AMH, follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinising hormone, sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) and testosterone were compared between subgroups. Of 141 patients with elevated AMH, 76 were obese and 65 lean. Greater than one-third of lean women had the clinical picture of FHH. Elevated AMH predicted PCOm and menstrual irregularity across all subgroups but uniquely associated with hyperandrogenism in the obese. Median AMH levels were similar among FHH and non-FHH women. Median SHBG levels were significantly higher (111 ± 73 vs 56 ± 31, P < 0.001) in lean women with FHH compared to those without FHH. PCOS and FHH share common features of elevated AMH levels, oligo-anovulation and polycystic ovarian morphology. AMH did not assist in differentiating FHH from PCOS. A higher SHBG level shows promise as a discriminatory finding in FHH. © 2017 The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.

Associated factors and clinical implications of serum aminotransferase elevation in scrub typhus.

PubMed

Su, Tung-Hung; Liu, Chun-Jen; Shu, Pei-Yun; Fu, Yang-Hsien; Chang, Chi-Hsien; Jao, Ping; Kao, Jia-Horng

2016-12-01

Timely diagnosis and prompt treatment can reduce the complications of scrub typhus. It is thus important to find easy laboratory tests to help in the diagnosis, especially in patients without eschar at initial presentation. Because serum aminotransferase elevation is common in scrub typhus, its associated factors and clinical implications need further investigations. We conducted a retrospective study in Kinmen, Taiwan, to collect clinically suspected scrub typhus patients notified to Taiwan Centers for Disease Control for confirmation during 2005-2010. Scrub typhus was diagnosed and Orientia tsutsugamushi was genotyped by serological or molecular assays. The laboratory data and clinical information were recorded for analysis. Overall, 344 suspected scrub typhus patients were reported to Taiwan Centers for Disease Control and 288 of them were certified scrub typhus. Scrub typhus patients had significantly more thrombocytopenia, serum aminotransferase elevation (76% vs. 54%, p = 0.001), higher frequency of fever, eschar, and lymphadenopathy, compared with nontyphus patients. Hepatic dysfunction in scrub typhus was associated with older age, longer fever duration, and absence of lymphadenopathy, but seemed to be unrelated to the rickettsial genotypes. Multivariate analysis showed that serum aminotransferase elevation (odds ratio: 3.75; p = 0.003; 95% confidence interval: 1.56-9.01) independently predicted scrub typhus. Furthermore, in suspected scrub typhus patients without eschar, 92% of true typhus patients had serum aminotransferase elevation compared with the nontyphus ones (odds ratio: 6.47; p = 0.028, 95% confidence interval: 1.23-34.11). Hepatic dysfunction in scrub typhus patients is associated with older age, longer fever duration, and absence of lymphadenopathy. Serum aminotransferase elevation can aid in the diagnosis of scrub typhus, especially in suspected patients without eschar. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Serum nitric oxide metabolites and disease activity in patients with systemic sclerosis.

PubMed

Mok, Mo Yin; Fung, Peter Chin Wah; Ooi, Clara; Tse, Hung Fat; Wong, Yik; Lam, Yui Ming; Wong, Woon Sing; Lau, Chak Sing

2008-03-01

There is no surrogate marker in serum for defining disease activity in scleroderma (SSc). Nitric oxide (NO), which regulates vasodilation and possesses pro-inflammatory actions, has been implicated in the pathogenesis of SSc. We compared serum NO(x) (total nitrate and nitrite) level in SSc patients to healthy controls and evaluated its correlation with detailed symptomatology and scoring systems for various organ involvement. Symptoms and physical findings that suggested disease activity in regard to various organs were documented. Lung function test, high-resolution computed tomographic (HRCT) scan of thorax and echocardiography were performed. Serum NO(x) was measured by chemiluminescence. Serum NO(x) levels in SSc (n = 43) were significantly higher (72.4 +/- 47.8 microM) than age- and sex-matched controls (n = 41; 37.1 +/- 13.5 microM; p < 0.001). Serum NO(x) were not found to be associated with lung fibrosis defined by lung function parameters or inflammation and fibrosis scores on HRCT. Twenty-two patients were found to have elevated serum NO(x) level defined as mean +/- 2 SD of normal controls. Logistic regression analysis revealed that age (OR 1.12, p = 0.02) and elevated pulmonary arterial pressure (PAP) (n = 9; OR 145.3, p = 0.01) were predictive factors for elevated serum NO(x). Prednisolone use was associated with lower serum NO(x) level (OR 0.06, p = 0.04). Elevated PAP of increasing severity was found to be associated with higher level of serum NO(x) (p = 0.004 by trend). Serum NO(x) in SSc patients were elevated compared to healthy controls. Serum NO(x) level was determined by multiple factors including age, prednisolone use, and elevated PAP.

Intercomparison of Meteorological Forcing Data from Empirical and Mesoscale Model Sources in the N.F. American River Basin in northern California

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wayand, N. E.; Hamlet, A. F.; Hughes, M. R.; Feld, S.; Lundquist, J. D.

2012-12-01

The data required to drive distributed hydrological models is significantly limited within mountainous terrain due to a scarcity of observations. This study evaluated three common configurations of forcing data: a) one low-elevation station, combined with empirical techniques, b) gridded output from the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model, and c) a combination of the two. Each configuration was evaluated within the heavily-instrumented North Fork American River Basin in northern California, during October-June 2000-2010. Simulations of streamflow and snowpack using the Distributed Hydrology Soil and Vegetation Model (DHSVM) highlighted precipitation and radiation as variables whose sources resulted in significant differences. The best source of precipitation data varied between years. On average, the performance of WRF and the single station distributed using the Parameter Regression on Independent Slopes Model (PRISM), were not significantly different. The average percent biases in simulated streamflow were 3.4% and 0.9%, for configurations a) and b) respectively, even though precipitation compared directly with gauge measurements was biased high by 6% and 17%, suggesting that gauge undercatch may explain part of the bias. Simulations of snowpack using empirically-estimated long-wave irradiance resulted in melt rates lower than those observed at high-elevation sites, while at lower-elevations the same forcing caused significant mid-winter melt that was not observed (Figure 1). These results highlight the complexity of how forcing data sources impact hydrology over different areas (high vs. low elevation snow) and different time-periods. Overall, results support the use of output from the WRF model over empirical techniques in regions with limited station data. FIG. 1. (a,b) Simulated SWE from DHSVM compared to observations at the Sierra Snow Lab (2100m) and Blue Canyon (1609m) during 2008 - 2009. Modeled (c,d) internal pack temperature, (e,f) downward short-wave irradiance, (g,h) downward long-wave irradiance, and (i,k) net-irradiance. Note that the timeperiod of plots e,g,i focus on the melt season (March-May), and plots f,h,j focus on the erroneous mid-winter melt event during January - time-periods marked with vertical dashed lines in (a) and (b).

[Effects of silicon supply on diurnal variations of physiological properties at rice heading stage under elevated UV-B radiation].

PubMed

Wu, Lei; Lou, Yun-sheng; Meng, Yan; Wang, Wei-qing; Cui, He-yang

2015-01-01

A pot experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of silicon (Si) supply on diurnal variations of photosynthesis and transpiration-related physiological parameters at rice heading stage under elevated UV-B radiation. The experiment was designed with two UV-B radiation levels, i.e. ambient UV-B. (ambient, A) and elevated UV-B (elevated by 20%, E), and four Si supply levels, i.e. Sio (control, 0 kg SiO2 . hm-2), Si, (sodium silicate, 100 kg SiO2 . hm-2), Si2 (sodium silicate, 200 kg SiO2 . hm2), Si3 (slag fertilizer, 200 kg SiO2 . hm-2). The results showed that, compared with ambient UV-B radiation, elevated UV-B radiation decreased the net photosynthesis rate (Pn) , intercellular CO2 concentration (Ci), transpiration rate (Tr), stomatal conductivity (gs) and water use efficiency (WUE) by 11.3%, 5.5%, 10.4%, 20.3% and 6.3%, respectively, in the treatment without Si supply (Si, level), and decreased the above parameters by 3.8%-5.5%, 0.7%-4.8%, 4.0%-8.7%, 7.4%-20.2% and 0.7%-5.9% in the treatments with Si supply (Si1, Si2 and Si3 levels) , respectively. Namely, elevated UV-B radiation decreased the photosynthesis and transpiration-related physiological parameters, but silicon supply could obviously mitigate the depressive effects of elevated UV-B radiation. Under elevated UV-B radiation, compared with control (Si0 level), silicon supply increased Pn, Ci, gs and WUE by 16.9%-28.0%, 3.5%-14.3%, 16.8% - 38.7% and 29.0% - 51.2%, respectively, but decreased Tr by 1.9% - 10.8% in the treatments with Si supply (Si1 , Si2 and Si3 levels). That is, silicon supply could mitigate the depressive effects of elevated UV-B radiation through significantly increasingnP., CigsgK and WUE, but decreasing T,. However, the difference existed in ameliorating the depressive effects of elevated UV-B radiation on diurnal variations of physiological parameters among the treatments of silicon supply, with the sequence of Si3>Si2>1i >Si0. This study suggested that fertilizing slag was helpful not only in recycling industrial wastes, but also in effectively mitigating the depressive effects of elevated UV-B radiation on photosynthesis and transpiration in rice production.

Hydroxyurea lowers transcranial Doppler flow velocities in children with sickle cell anaemia in a Nigerian cohort.

PubMed

Lagunju, IkeOluwa; Brown, Biobele J; Sodeinde, Olugbemiro

2015-09-01

Sickle cell anaemia (SCA) is the leading genetic disorder in Nigeria. Elevated velocities ≥170 cm/sec occur in about a third of Nigerian children with SCA. Chronic blood transfusion for stroke prevention is faced with a myriad of challenges in our practice. To evaluate the effectiveness of hydroxyurea (HU) in reducing flow velocities in a cohort of Nigerian children with SCA and elevated velocities treated with HU. An observational study was carried out on a cohort of Nigerian children with SCA and elevated velocities identified on routine transcranial Doppler (TCD) screening. HU was recommended in those with TCD velocities ≥ 170cm/sec as stipulated in our hospital protocol. Outcomes were compared after ≥12 months of observation. Fifty children with elevated TCD velocities were studied; 31 consented to HU therapy and 19 declined. Children on HU showed a statistically significant decline in mean velocities from 199.7 [17.1] cm/sec to 165.8 [20.7] cm/sec (P < 0.001) with a significant increase in mean packed cell volume from 21.1 [3.4] to 25.0 [2.8]%. Children without treatment had a significant rise in mean velocities from 190.2 [10.8] cm/sec to 199.7 [14.9] cm/sec (P = 0.003). Children with conditional risk velocities on HU were less likely to convert to abnormal risk (P < 0.001). Two stroke events occurred, one in each group. No adverse effects of HU were recorded in the cohort. HU appears to significantly reduce TCD velocities in Nigerian children with SCA and elevated velocities ≥170 cm/sec with beneficial effect on the haematological profile. HU may provide an effective approach to primary stroke prevention, particularly in Africa. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Transverse Sinus Stenosis in Adult Patients With Chiari Malformation Type I

PubMed Central

Saindane, Amit M.; Bruce, Beau B.; Desai, Nilesh K.; Roller, Lauren A.; Newman, Nancy J.; Biousse, Valérie

2014-01-01

OBJECTIVE Transverse sinus stenosis is an imaging finding very highly associated with elevated intracranial pressure (ICP). Patients with the Chiari I malformation may potentially have elevated ICP due to impairment of CSF flow at the foramen magnum. This study evaluated whether patients with Chiari I malformation have transverse sinus stenosis and other imaging findings indicative of elevated ICP. MATERIALS AND METHODS Thirty patients with Chiari I malformation treated surgically and 76 control subjects were identified retrospectively. All control subjects and all patients with Chiari I malformation (preoperatively) underwent standardized contrast-enhanced brain MRI including a contrast-enhanced 3D T1-weighted sequence from which curved reformats of the transverse sinuses were generated. Two different readers blinded to the diagnosis then independently evaluated these curved reformats for severity of transverse sinus stenosis. Orbital and skull-base findings previously described in association with elevated ICP were also evaluated. Frequency of MRI findings between the two groups was compared. RESULTS Patients with Chiari I malformation had significantly greater frequency of unilateral or bilateral transverse sinus stenosis than did control subjects (p < 0.001). There was complete interreader agreement on presence or absence of transverse sinus stenosis by patient (κ = 1.0 [95% CI, 0.89–1.0]). Logistic regression analysis controlling for age, sex, and body mass index found that transverse sinus stenosis significantly predicted Chiari I malformation versus control status (odds ratio, 11.2 [95% CI, 2.1–59.0]; p = 0.004) but that no other features were significantly associated with the Chiari I malformation. Patients with Chiari I malformation who had transverse sinus stenosis had significantly greater pituitary flattening than did those without transverse sinus stenosis (p = 0.02). CONCLUSION Patients with Chiari I malformation have higher likelihood of trans-verse sinus stenosis, which may reflect associated elevated ICP. PMID:25247957

Untangling elevation-related differences in the hippocampus in food-caching mountain chickadees: the effect of a uniform captive environment.

PubMed

Freas, C A; Bingman, K; Ladage, L D; Pravosudov, V V

2013-01-01

Variation in environmental conditions associated with differential selection on spatial memory has been hypothesized to result in evolutionary changes in the morphology of the hippocampus, a brain region involved in spatial memory. At the same time, it is well known that the morphology of the hippocampus might also be directly affected by environmental conditions. Understanding the role of environment-based plasticity is therefore critical when investigating potential adaptive evolutionary changes in the hippocampus associated with environmental variation. We previously demonstrated large elevation-related variation in hippocampus morphology in mountain chickadees over an extremely small spatial scale. We hypothesized that this variation is related to differential selection pressures associated with differences in winter climate severity along an elevation gradient, which make different demands on spatial memory used for food cache retrieval. Here, we tested whether such variation is experience based, generated by potential differences in the environment, by comparing the hippocampus morphology of chickadees from different elevations maintained in a uniform captive environment in a laboratory with those sampled directly from the wild. In addition, we compared hippocampal neuron soma size in chickadees sampled directly from the wild with those maintained in laboratory conditions with restricted and unrestricted spatial memory use via manipulation of food-caching experiences to test whether memory use can affect neuron soma size. There were significant elevation-related differences in hippocampus volume and the total number of hippocampal neurons, but not in neuron soma size, in captive birds. Captive environmental conditions were associated with a large reduction in hippocampus volume and neuron soma size, but not in the total number of neurons or in neuron soma size in other telencephalic regions. Restriction of memory use while in laboratory conditions produced no significant effects on hippocampal neuron soma size. Overall our results showed that captivity has a strong effect on hippocampus volume, which could be due, at least partly, to a reduction in neuron soma size specifically in the hippocampus, but it did not override elevation-related differences in hippocampus volume or in the total number of hippocampal neurons. These data are consistent with the idea of the adaptive nature of the elevation-related differences associated with selection on spatial memory, while at the same time demonstrating additional environment-based plasticity in hippocampus volume, but not in neuron numbers. Our results, however, cannot rule out that the differences between elevations might still be driven by some developmental or early posthatching conditions/experiences. © 2013 S. Karger AG, Basel.

The Effect of Elevation Bias in Interpolated Air Temperature Data Sets on Surface Warming in China During 1951-2015

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Tingting; Sun, Fubao; Ge, Quansheng; Kleidon, Axel; Liu, Wenbin

2018-02-01

Although gridded air temperature data sets share much of the same observations, different rates of warming can be detected due to different approaches employed for considering elevation signatures in the interpolation processes. Here we examine the influence of varying spatiotemporal distribution of sites on surface warming in the long-term trend and over the recent warming hiatus period in China during 1951-2015. A suspicious cooling trend in raw interpolated air temperature time series is found in the 1950s, and 91% of which can be explained by the artificial elevation changes introduced by the interpolation process. We define the regression slope relating temperature difference and elevation difference as the bulk lapse rate of -5.6°C/km, which tends to be higher (-8.7°C/km) in dry regions but lower (-2.4°C/km) in wet regions. Compared to independent experimental observations, we find that the estimated monthly bulk lapse rates work well to capture the elevation bias. Significant improvement can be achieved in adjusting the interpolated original temperature time series using the bulk lapse rate. The results highlight that the developed bulk lapse rate is useful to account for the elevation signature in the interpolation of site-based surface air temperature to gridded data sets and is necessary for avoiding elevation bias in climate change studies.

1. Statement of significance, site plan, plan, elevation, section, boxcar ...

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

1. Statement of significance, site plan, plan, elevation, section, boxcar spring details, and outhouse plan and elevation. - Woods Landing Dance Hall, 2731 State Highway 230, Woods Landing, Albany County, WY

Co-ingestion of carbohydrate and whey protein increases fasted rates of muscle protein synthesis immediately after resistance exercise in rats

PubMed Central

Wang, Wanyi; Ding, Zhenping; Solares, Geoffrey J.; Choi, Soon-Mi; Wang, Bo; Yoon, Aram; Farrar, Roger P.; Ivy, John L.

2017-01-01

The objective of the study was to investigate whether co-ingestion of carbohydrate and protein as compared with protein alone augments muscle protein synthesis (MPS) during early exercise recovery. Two months old rats performed 10 repetitions of ladder climbing with 75% of body weight attached to their tails. Placebo (PLA), whey protein (WP), or whey protein plus carbohydrate (CP) was then given to rats by gavage. An additional group of sedentary rats (SED) was used as controls. Blood samples were collected immediately and at either 1 or 2 h after exercise. The flexor hallucis longus muscle was excised at 1 or 2 h post exercise for analysis of MPS and related signaling proteins. MPS was significantly increased by CP compared with PLA (p<0.05), and approached significance compared with WP at 1 h post exercise (p = 0.08). CP yielded a greater phosphorylation of mTOR compared with SED and PLA at 1 h post exercise and SED and WP at 2 h post exercise. CP also increased phosphorylation of p70S6K compared with SED at 1 and 2 h post exercise. 4E-BP1 phosphorylation was inhibited by PLA at 1 h but elevated by WP and CP at 2 h post exercise relative to SED. The phosphorylation of AMPK was elevated by exercise at 1 h post exercise, and this elevated level was sustained only in the WP group at 2 h. The phosphorylation of Akt, GSK3, and eIF2Bε were unchanged by treatments. Plasma insulin was transiently increased by CP at 1 h post exercise. In conclusion, post-exercise CP supplementation increases MPS post exercise relative to PLA and possibly WP, which may have been mediated by greater activation of the mTOR signaling pathway. PMID:28296942

Patients ≥ 75 years with acute coronary syndrome but without critical epicardial coronary disease: prevalence, characteristics, and outcome

PubMed Central

Wong, Vincent; Farah, Ahmed; von Korn, Hubertus; Memisevic, Nedim; Richter, Stefan; Tukhiashvili, Ketevan; Lauer, Bernward; Ohlow, Marc-Alexander

2015-01-01

Objective Absence of significant epicardial coronary artery disease (CAD) in patients with acute onset of chest pain and elevation of myocardial necrosis markers is occasionally observed. The aim of this study was to analyse the clinical characteristics and outcome of such patients with advanced age. Methods We retrospectively analysed 4,311 patients with acute onset of chest pain plus necrosis marker elevation. Two hundred and seventy two patients without CAD on angiogram (6.3%) were identified. Out of them, 50 (1.2%) patients ≥ 75 years (Group I) were compared with (1) 222 acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients without CAD on angiogram < 75 years (Group II), and (2) 610 consecutive patients ≥ 75 years with Non-ST-elevation Myocardial Infarction (NSTEMI) undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (Group III). Results Group I compared to Group III patients made up for more females (64.0% vs. 49.2%; P < 0.0001), and had more severe anginal symptoms on presentation [Canadian Cardiovascular Society (CCS) class I/II, 26.0% vs. 49.8%; P = 0.02]. Group I patients also had lower troponin levels (0.62 ± 0.8 ng/mL vs. 27 ± 74 ng/mL; P < 0.02), lower leukocyte count (9.4 ± 3.13 × 109 vs. 12 ± 5.1 × 109; P = 0.001) and better preserved left ventricular function (56.7% ± 14.3% vs. 45% ± 11%; P < 0.0001). Event-free survival (cardiac death, myocardial infarction, recurrent angina, and re-hospitalisation) was more frequent in Group I and II patients compared to Group III patients (64.9%, 66.7%, and 41.6%, respectively; P < 0.0001). Conclusions ACS in patients ≥ 75 years without CAD is very infrequent, associated with a (1) similar outcome compared to ACS patients < 75 years without CAD, and (2) significant better outcome compared to NSTEMI patients ≥ 75 years. PMID:25678899

Will elevated atmospheric CO2 boost the growth of an invasive submerged macrophyte Cabomba caroliniana under the interference of phytoplankton?

PubMed

Liu, Xin; Han, Yanqing; Zhu, Jinge; Deng, Jiancai; Hu, Weiping; da Silva, Thomaz Edson Veloso

2018-01-01

The growth of most submerged macrophytes is likely to be limited by the availability of carbon resource, and this is especially true for the obligatory carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) users. A mesocosm experiment was performed to investigate the physiological, photophysiological, and biochemical responses of Cabomba caroliniana, an invasive macrophyte specie in the Lake Taihu Basin, to elevated atmospheric CO 2 (1000 μmol mol -1 ); we also examined the possible impacts of interferences derived from the phytoplankton proliferation and its concomitant disturbances on the growth of C. caroliniana. The results demonstrated that elevated atmospheric CO 2 significantly enhanced the biomass, relative growth rate, and photosynthate accumulation of C. caroliniana. C. caroliniana exposed to elevated atmospheric CO 2 exhibited a higher relative maximum electron transport rate and photosynthetic efficiency, compared to those exposed to ambient atmospheric CO 2 . However, the positive effects of elevated atmospheric CO 2 on C. caroliniana were gradually compromised as time went by, and the down-regulations of the relative growth rate (RGR) and photosynthetic activity were coupled with phytoplankton proliferation under elevated atmospheric CO 2 . This study demonstrated that the growth of C. caroliniana under the phytoplankton interference can be greatly affected, directly and indirectly, by the increasing atmospheric CO 2 .

A Comparative Study of Radar Stereo and Interferometry for DEM Generation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gelautz, M.; Paillou, P.; Chen, C. W.; Zebker, H. A.

2004-06-01

In this experiment, we derive and compare radar stereo and interferometric elevation models (DEMs) of a study site in Djibouti, East Africa. As test data, we use a Radarsat stereo pair and ERS-2 and Radarsat interferometric data. Comparison of the reconstructed DEMs with a SPOT reference DEM shows that in regions of high coherence the DEMs produced by interferometry are of much better quality than the stereo result. However, the interferometric error histograms also show some pronounced outliers due to decorrelation and phase unwrapping problems on forested mountain slopes. The more robust stereo result is able to capture the general terrain shape, but finer surface details are lost. A fusion experiment demonstrates that merging the stereoscopic and interferometric DEMs by utilizing coherence- derived weights can significantly improve the accuracy of the computed elevation maps.

Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory profile in patients with restless legs syndrome.

PubMed

Turkel, Yakup; Oguzturk, Omer; Dag, Ersel; Buturak, S Visal; Ekici, Mehmet S

2015-06-01

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is associated with psychiatric disorders. We aim to investigate the personality traits of RLS patients using the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory. Twenty adult patients with RLS (14 females and 6 males) and 20 healthy controls (14 females and 6 males) who were referred to university neurology were enrolled in the present study. Diagnosis of RLS was established using International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group. Psychometric evaluation was made with the Turkish version of the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory. RLS patients have significantly higher absolute and clinical elevation scores on hypochondriasis and hysteria, and clinical elevation scores on psychasthenia, compared with the controls. Absolute scores on depression were higher at the border in RLS patients compared with the controls. RLS patients have hypochondriac, hysterical, depressive, and anxious personality traits. © 2014 Wiley Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.

[Distribution characteristics of heavy metals along an elevation gradient of montane forest].

PubMed

Wan, Jia-rong; Nie, Ming; Zou, Qin; Hu, Shao-chang; Chen, Jia-kuan

2011-12-01

In the present paper, the concentrations of fourteen heavy metals (Fe, Al, Ti, Cu, Cr, Mn, V, Zn, Ni, Co, Pb, Se, Cd and As) were determined by ICP-AES and atomic absorption spectroscopy along an elevation gradient of montane forest. The results show that the elevation gradient had significant effects on the concentrations of Fe, Al, Ti, V, Pb and As. And the concentrations of Cu, Cr, Mn, Zn, Ni, Co, Se and Cd were not significantly affected by the elevation gradient. Because the studying area is red soil, the elevation gradient had significant effects on the concentrations of Fe, Al and Ti which are characteristic heavy metals of red soil, suggesting that the red soil at different elevations has different intensities of weathering desilication and bioaccumulation. Other heavy metals have different relationships with the elevation gradient, such as the concentrations of Cr, Zn and Cd were high at relatively high elevation and Pb and As were high at relatively low elevation. These results suggest that the different elevations of montane forest soils were polluted by differently types of heavy metals.

Effects of Elevated CO2 on Plant Chemistry, Growth, Yield of Resistant Soybean, and Feeding of a Target Lepidoptera Pest, Spodoptera litura (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae).

PubMed

Yifei, Zhang; Yang, Dai; Guijun, Wan; Bin, Liu; Guangnan, Xing; Fajun, Chen

2018-04-25

Atmospheric CO2 level arising is an indisputable fact in the future climate change, as predicted, it could influence crops and their herbivorous insect pests. The growth and development, reproduction, and consumption of Spodoptera litura (F.) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) fed on resistant (cv. Lamar) and susceptible (cv. JLNMH) soybean grown under elevated (732.1 ± 9.99 μl/liter) and ambient (373.6 ± 9.21 μl/liter) CO2 were examined in open-top chambers from 2013 to 2015. Elevated CO2 promoted the above- and belowground-biomass accumulation and increased the root/shoot ratio of two soybean cultivars, and increased the seeds' yield for Lamar. Moreover, elevated CO2 significantly reduced the larval and pupal weight, prolonged the larval and pupal life span, and increased the feeding amount and excretion amount of two soybean cultivars. Significantly lower foliar nitrogen content and higher foliar sugar content and C/N ratio were observed in the sampled foliage of resistant and susceptible soybean cultivars grown under elevated CO2, which brought negative effects on the growth of S. litura, with the increment of foliar sugar content and C/N ratio were greater in the resistant soybean in contrast to the susceptible soybean. Furthermore, the increment of larval consumption was less than 50%, and the larval life span was prolonged more obvious of the larvae fed on resistant soybean compared with susceptible soybean under elevated CO2. It speculated that the future climatic change of atmospheric CO2 level arising would likely cause the increase of the soybean yield and the intake of S. litura, but the resistant soybean would improve the resistance of the target Lepidoptera pest, S. litura.

Autonomic dysfunction assessed by EZSCAN and subclinical atherosclerosis.

PubMed

Sun, Jichao; Zhang, Yinfei; Xu, Baihui; Lv, Xiaofei; Ding, Lin; Chen, Ying; Sun, Wanwan; Lu, Jieli; Xu, Min; Bi, Yufang; Ning, Guang

2014-09-01

The present study aimed to explore the association between autonomic dysfunction and measurements of atherosclerosis in a middle-aged and elderly Chinese population. A population-based cross-sectional study was performed in Shanghai, China, from March to August 2010, with 5076 participants included in the analysis. Autonomic function was assessed by a novel EZSCAN test based on sudomotor function analysis. Carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) was measured using B-mode ultrasonography and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (ba-PWV) was measured using an autonomic device. Participants were divided into three groups based on EZSCAN values: Group 1: EZSCAN 0-24; Group 2, EZSCAN 25-49; and Group 3, EZSCAN 50-100. These groups denoted autonomic dysfunction risk groups as follows: no risk, moderate risk and high risk, respectively. The prevalence of elevated CIMT and ba-PWV increased markedly with increasing EZSCAN values (elevated CIMT 7.4%, 17.5%, and 29.7%, elevated ba-PWV 3.2%, 19.7%, and 36.5%, in Groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively; both Ptrend < 0.0001). Logistic regressions revealed that EZSCAN values ≥50 were associated with a non-significantly higher risk of elevated CIMT (odds ratio [OR] = 1.43; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.98-2.07) and a significantly higher risk of elevated ba-PWV (OR = 2.16; 95% CI 1.25-3.71) compared with EZSCAN values <25, after controlling for conventional risk factors. A higher EZSCAN value (≥50), an index of high autonomic dysfunction risk, was associated with an increased risk of elevated ba-PWV and CIMT. Such associations were partially explained by traditional atherosclerotic risk factors. © 2014 Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine and Wiley Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.

Elevation of cardiac troponin T in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

PubMed

Mach, Lukas; Konecny, Tomas; Helanova, Katerina; Jaffe, Allan S; Sorenson, Eric J; Somers, Virend K; Reeder, Guy S

2016-12-01

Limited evidence suggests that specificity of cardiac troponin T (cTnT), a highly sensitive biomarker of myocardial injury, is reduced in patients with skeletal myopathies. Whether amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)-the most common motor neuron disease-could be also associated with abnormal plasma or serum cTnT levels remains unclear. Our objective was to assess cTnT levels in patients with ALS without known cTnT elevating conditions. Among ALS patients seen at our institution until 2012 we identified those who had their cTnT measured. Patients who suffered from conditions known to elevate cTnT were excluded. A case-control analysis comparing cTnT levels of these ALS patients to matched non-ALS controls fulfilling the same inclusion criteria was performed. We included 40 ALS patients of whom 27 (68 %) patients had a positive cTnT. In the control group (n = 40), 2 (5 %) tested as cTnT positive (p < 0.001). Among the ALS patients who underwent cTnT evaluation on more occasions (n = 7; median follow-up = 1.08 years), 2 (29 %) patients tested positive during the initial measurement while 6 (86 %) of them had positive cTnT at the subsequent evaluations. ALS patients with increased cTnT had been diagnosed with ALS significantly earlier than those without the elevation. Our findings raise the possibility that ALS may cause cTnT elevations. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings, clarify the pathophysiological mechanism, and establish the significance of cTnT elevations in patients with ALS.

UV Screening in Native and Non-native Plant Species in the Tropical Alpine: Implications for Climate Change-Driven Migration of Species to Higher Elevations.

PubMed

Barnes, Paul W; Ryel, Ronald J; Flint, Stephan D

2017-01-01

Ongoing changes in Earth's climate are shifting the elevation ranges of many plant species with non-native species often experiencing greater expansion into higher elevations than native species. These climate change-induced shifts in distributions inevitably expose plants to novel biotic and abiotic environments, including altered solar ultraviolet (UV)-B (280-315 nm) radiation regimes. Do the greater migration potentials of non-native species into higher elevations imply that they have more effective UV-protective mechanisms than native species? In this study, we surveyed leaf epidermal UV-A transmittance (T UV A ) in a diversity of plant species representing different growth forms to test whether native and non-native species growing above 2800 m elevation on Mauna Kea, Hawaii differed in their UV screening capabilities. We further compared the degree to which T UV A varied along an elevation gradient in the native shrub Vaccinium reticulatum and the introduced forb Verbascum thapsus to evaluate whether these species differed in their abilities to adjust their levels of UV screening in response to elevation changes in UV-B. For plants growing in the Mauna Kea alpine/upper subalpine, we found that adaxial T UV A , measured with a UVA-PAM fluorometer, varied significantly among species but did not differ between native (mean = 6.0%; n = 8) and non-native (mean = 5.8%; n = 11) species. When data were pooled across native and non-native taxa, we also found no significant effect of growth form on T UV A , though woody plants (shrubs and trees) were represented solely by native species whereas herbaceous growth forms (grasses and forbs) were dominated by non-native species. Along an elevation gradient spanning 2600-3800 m, T UV A was variable (mean range = 6.0-11.2%) and strongly correlated with elevation and relative biologically effective UV-B in the exotic V. thapsus ; however, T UV A was consistently low (3%) and did not vary with elevation in the native V. reticulatum . Results indicate that high levels of UV protection occur in both native and non-native species in this high UV-B tropical alpine environment, and that flexibility in UV screening is a mechanism employed by some, but not all species to cope with varying solar UV-B exposures along elevation gradients.

UV Screening in Native and Non-native Plant Species in the Tropical Alpine: Implications for Climate Change-Driven Migration of Species to Higher Elevations

PubMed Central

Barnes, Paul W.; Ryel, Ronald J.; Flint, Stephan D.

2017-01-01

Ongoing changes in Earth’s climate are shifting the elevation ranges of many plant species with non-native species often experiencing greater expansion into higher elevations than native species. These climate change-induced shifts in distributions inevitably expose plants to novel biotic and abiotic environments, including altered solar ultraviolet (UV)-B (280–315 nm) radiation regimes. Do the greater migration potentials of non-native species into higher elevations imply that they have more effective UV-protective mechanisms than native species? In this study, we surveyed leaf epidermal UV-A transmittance (TUV A) in a diversity of plant species representing different growth forms to test whether native and non-native species growing above 2800 m elevation on Mauna Kea, Hawaii differed in their UV screening capabilities. We further compared the degree to which TUV A varied along an elevation gradient in the native shrub Vaccinium reticulatum and the introduced forb Verbascum thapsus to evaluate whether these species differed in their abilities to adjust their levels of UV screening in response to elevation changes in UV-B. For plants growing in the Mauna Kea alpine/upper subalpine, we found that adaxial TUV A, measured with a UVA-PAM fluorometer, varied significantly among species but did not differ between native (mean = 6.0%; n = 8) and non-native (mean = 5.8%; n = 11) species. When data were pooled across native and non-native taxa, we also found no significant effect of growth form on TUV A, though woody plants (shrubs and trees) were represented solely by native species whereas herbaceous growth forms (grasses and forbs) were dominated by non-native species. Along an elevation gradient spanning 2600–3800 m, TUV A was variable (mean range = 6.0–11.2%) and strongly correlated with elevation and relative biologically effective UV-B in the exotic V. thapsus; however, TUV A was consistently low (3%) and did not vary with elevation in the native V. reticulatum. Results indicate that high levels of UV protection occur in both native and non-native species in this high UV-B tropical alpine environment, and that flexibility in UV screening is a mechanism employed by some, but not all species to cope with varying solar UV-B exposures along elevation gradients. PMID:28878792

Soluble B7-H4 blood serum levels are elevated in women at high risk for preeclampsia in the first trimester, as well as in patients with confirmed preeclampsia.

PubMed

Mach, Pawel; Nolte-Boenigk, Luisa; Droste, Leonie; Fox, Laura; Frank, Mirjam; Schmidt, Boerge; Herse, Florian; Verlohren, Stefan; Wicherek, Lukasz; Iannaccone, Antonella; Birdir, Cahit; Andrikos, Dimitrios; Kimmig, Rainer; Gellhaus, Alexandra; Köninger, Angela

2018-05-24

B7-H4 negatively regulates T-cell-mediated immunity and might play an important role in preeclampsia (PE). Here, we have investigated the association between PE and maternal soluble B7-H4 (sB7-H4) serum levels and B7-H4 mRNA expression in the placenta. Maternal serum levels of sB7-H4 were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in women between 11 and 13 weeks' gestation with elevated risk for PE (n = 48) and women without elevated risk for PE (n = 47). In the third trimester, sB7-H4 serum levels (n = 166) and B7-H4 mRNA expression in the placenta (n = 54) were determined in women with early-onset PE, late-onset PE, fetal growth restriction (FGR), and in healthy controls. In the first trimester, significant higher levels of sB7-H4 were detected in women at elevated risk for PE compared to women without risk for PE (P < .0001). sB7-H4 has some predictive ability to identify cases with an elevated risk of developing PE with area under the curve (AUC) value of 0.88 (95% CI 0.8-0.94). Using a specificity of 90.0% led to a sensitivity of 47.9% and a threshold of 3.63 ng/mL. In the third trimester, the highest serum levels of sB7-H4 and B7-H4 mRNA expression in the placenta were observed in early-onset PE. Significant higher serum levels of sB7-H4 and B7-H4 mRNA expression in the placenta were observed in women with early-onset PE (P = .01 and P = .006, respectively) and late-onset PE (P = .03 and P = .004, respectively) compared to healthy controls, but not compared to FGR. sB7-H4 is involved in the regulation of immune tolerance in women with PE in the third trimester. In the first trimester of pregnancy, sB7-H4 might serve as a predictive immunological biomarker for women who are at elevated risk of developing PE. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Sex-specific substance abuse treatment for female healthcare professionals: implications.

PubMed

Koos, Erin; Brand, Michael; Rojas, Julio; Li, Ji

2014-01-01

Gender plays a significant role in the development and treatment of substance abuse disorders. Sex-specific treatment for girls and women has recurrently proven more effective, with better outcomes than traditional treatment. Research on impaired healthcare professionals (HCPs) has largely focused on men, garnering little attention for women and sex differences. With the increasing numbers of female HCPs, it is imperative to identify potential sex differences that may have implications for treatment. Our study compared a convenience sample of male and female HCPs with substance abuse disorders treated in an outpatient program to identify sex differences that may have implications for treatment. Our sample consisted of 96 HCPs (54 men, 42 women) and 17 non-healthcare professional (N-HCP) women. All of the participants were evaluated using the program's clinical interview and the Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI). Chart review data contained categorical variables, qualitative variables, diagnoses, and psychological test scores. A second analysis was conducted through two separate comparisons: the PAI results of comparing impaired female HCPs with impaired male HCPs and the PAI results of comparing impaired female HCPs with impaired female N-HCPs. Statistically significant differences indicated more male participants received prior treatment and more intensive treatment than female participants. More female subjects reported being diagnosed as having a comorbid psychiatric condition and taking psychotropic medications. Several statistically significant differences in the PAI scores were found. Among female HCPs, elevations were found in anxiety, depression, paranoia, and borderline personality disorder. Substantive differences, although not statistically significant, were elevations in somatic complaints and anxiety disorders in female HCPs. In the comparison of female HCPs and N-HCPs, the only statistically significant difference was the significantly higher anxiety score of N-HCPs. The results indicate greater differences between female HCPs and male HCPs than between female HCPs and N-HCPs.

Peripheral Blood Cells from Patients with Autoimmune Addison's Disease Poorly Respond to Interferons In Vitro, Despite Elevated Serum Levels of Interferon-Inducible Chemokines.

PubMed

Edvardsen, Kine; Bjånesøy, Trine; Hellesen, Alexander; Breivik, Lars; Bakke, Marit; Husebye, Eystein S; Bratland, Eirik

2015-10-01

Autoimmune Addison's disease (AAD) is a disorder caused by an immunological attack on the adrenal cortex. The interferon (IFN)-inducible chemokine CXCL10 is elevated in serum of AAD patients, suggesting a peripheral IFN signature. However, CXCL10 can also be induced in adrenocortical cells stimulated with IFNs, cytokines, or microbial components. We therefore investigated whether peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from AAD patients display an enhanced propensity to produce CXCL10 and the related chemokine CXCL9, after stimulation with type I or II IFNs or the IFN inducer poly (I:C). Although serum levels of CXCL10 and CXCL9 were significantly elevated in patients compared with controls, IFN stimulated patient PBMC produced significantly less CXCL10/CXCL9 than control PBMC. Low CXCL10 production was not significantly associated with medication, disease duration, or comorbidities, but the low production of poly (I:C)-induced CXCL10 among patients was associated with an AAD risk allele in the phosphatase nonreceptor type 22 (PTPN22) gene. PBMC levels of total STAT1 and -2, and IFN-induced phosphorylated STAT1 and -2, were not significantly different between patients and controls. We conclude that PBMC from patients with AAD are deficient in their response to IFNs, and that the adrenal cortex itself may be responsible for the increased serum levels of CXCL10.

[Effects of elevated atmospheric CO2 and nitrogen application on cotton biomass, nitrogen utilization and soil urease activity].

PubMed

Lyu, Ning; Yin, Fei-hu; Chen, Yun; Gao, Zhi-jian; Liu, Yu; Shi, Lei

2015-11-01

In this study, a semi-open-top artificial climate chamber was used to study the effect of CO2 enrichment (360 and 540 µmol · mol(-1)) and nitrogen addition (0, 150, 300 and 450 kg · hm(-2)) on cotton dry matter accumulation and distribution, nitrogen absorption and soil urease activity. The results showed that the dry matter accumulation of bud, stem, leaf and the whole plant increased significantly in the higher CO2 concentration treatment irrespective of nitrogen level. The dry matter of all the detected parts of plant with 300 kg · hm(-2) nitrogen addition was significantly higher than those with the other nitrogen levels irrespective of CO2 concentration, indicating reasonable nitrogen fertilization could significantly improve cotton dry matter accumulation. Elevated CO2 concentration had significant impact on the nitrogen absorption contents of cotton bud and stem. Compared to those under CO2 concentration of 360 µmol · mol(-1), the nitrogen contents of bud and stem both increased significantly under CO2 concentration of 540 µmol · mol(-1). The nitrogen content of cotton bud in the treatment of 300 kg · hm(-2) nitrogen was the highest among the four nitrogen fertilizer treatments. While the nitrogen contents of cotton stem in the treatments of 150 kg · hm(-2) and 300 kg · hm(-2) nitrogen levels were higher than those in the treatment of 0 kg · hm(-2) and 450 kg · hm(-2) nitrogen levels. The nitrogen content of cotton leaf was significantly influenced by the in- teraction of CO2 elevation and N addition as the nitrogen content of leaf increased in the treatments of 0, 150 and 300 kg · hm(-2) nitrogen levels under the CO2 concentration of 540 µmol · mol(-1). The nitrogen content in cotton root was significantly increased with the increase of nitrogen fertilizer level under elevated CO2 (540 µmol · mol(-1)) treatment. Overall, the cotton nitrogen absorption content under the elevated CO2 (540 µmol · mol(-1)) treatment was higher than that under the ambient CO2- (360 µmol · mol(-1)) treatment. The order of nitrogen accumulation content in organs was bud > leaf > stem > root. Soil urease activity of both layers increased significantly with the elevation of CO2 concentration in all the nitrogen treatments. Under each CO2 concentration treatment, the soil urease activity in the upper layer (0-20 cm) increased significantly with nitrogen application, while the urease activity under the application of 300 kg · hm(-2) nitrogen was highest in the lower layer (20- 40 cm). The average soil urease activity in the upper layer (0-20 cm) was significantly higher than that in the lower layer (20-40 cm). This study suggested that the cotton dry matter accumulation and nitrogen absorption content were significantly increased in response to the elevated CO2 concentration (540 µmol · mol(-1)) and higher nitrogen addition (300 kg · hm(-2)).

Diversity and Spatial-Temporal Distribution of Soil Macrofauna Communities Along Elevation in the Changbai Mountain, China.

PubMed

Yin, Xiuqin; Qiu, Lili; Jiang, Yunfeng; Wang, Yeqiao

2017-06-01

The understanding of patterns of vertical variation and diversity of flora and fauna along elevational change has been well established over the past century. However, it is unclear whether there is an elevational distribution pattern for soil fauna. This study revealed the diversity and spatial-temporal distribution of soil macrofauna communities in different vegetation zones from forest to alpine tundra along elevation of the Changbai Mountain, China. The abundance, richness, and Shannon-Wiener diversity index of soil macrofauna communities were compared in four distinguished vegetation zones including the coniferous and broadleaved mixed forest zone, the coniferous forest zone, the subalpine dwarf birch (Betula ermanii) forest zone, and the alpine tundra zone. Soil macrofauna were extracted in May, July, and September of 2009. In each season, the abundance and richness of the soil macrofauna decreased with the ascending elevation. The Shannon-Wiener diversity indices of the soil macrofauna were higher in the vegetation zones of lower elevation than of higher elevation. Significant differences were observed in the abundance, richness, and Shannon-Wiener diversity index for the studied vegetation zones. Soil macrofauna congregated mainly to the litter layer in the low-elevation areas and in the 0-5 cm soil layer of the higher elevation areas. The results emphasized that the diversity of soil macrofauna communities decreased as the elevation increased and possess the distinct characteristics of zonation in the mountain ecosystem. The diversity and distribution of soil macrofauna communities were influenced by mean annual precipitation, altitude, annual radiation quantity, and mean annual temperature. © The Authors 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Entomological Society of America. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

International Normalized Ratio Is Significantly Elevated With Rivaroxaban and Apixaban Drug Therapies: A Retrospective Study.

PubMed

Ofek, Fanny; Bar Chaim, Samuel; Kronenfeld, Nirit; Ziv-Baran, Tomer; Berkovitch, Matitiahu

2017-05-01

Direct factor Xa inhibitors such as rivaroxaban or apixaban may prolong prothrombin time (PT) and elevate international normalized ratio (INR). However, these tests are not reliable for assessing the anticoagulation effects of these agents. PT assay sensitivity is relatively weak at therapeutic drug concentrations and is subjected to significant variations depending on the reagent used. Conversion of PT to INR may even increase the variability. We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional study aiming to assess the prevalence and extent of INR elevation in hospitalized patients receiving rivaroxaban or apixaban as part of their home medications and to find out whether other existing factors could elevate INR apart from the drug entity itself. The data collected from 218 hospitalized patients׳ charts included PT and INR taken on admission, patients׳ characteristics, laboratory results, other medications regularly used, and coexisting clinical conditions. No statistically significant association between INR elevation and the parameters examined was found in our study. INR was significantly elevated in both drug groups (P < 0.001), with 84.2% of rivaroxaban patients and 78.3% of apixaban patients presenting with INR levels above the higher limit of the normal range. Furthermore, INR was significantly higher in the rivaroxaban group than in the apixaban group (P < 0.001). Both of the reviewed drugs significantly elevated INR. Moreover, rivaroxaban elevates INR significantly more than apixaban, and there are apparently no other factors affecting INR but the drugs themselves. Larger prospective studies are needed to confirm and clarify the clinical significance of these results. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier HS Journals, Inc. All rights reserved.

Prevalence and clinical characteristics of isolated-office and true resistant hypertension determined by ambulatory blood pressure monitoring.

PubMed

Ríos, María T; Domínguez-Sardiña, Manuel; Ayala, Diana E; Gomara, Sonia; Sineiro, Elvira; Pousa, Lorenzo; Callejas, Pedro A; Fontao, María J; Fernández, José R; Hermida, Ramón C

2013-03-01

Hypertension is defined as resistant to treatment when a therapeutic plan including ≥3 hypertension medications failed to sufficiently lower systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressures (BPs). Most individuals, including those under hypertension therapy, show a "white-coat" effect that could cause an overestimation of their real BP. The prevalence and clinical characteristics of "white-coat" or isolated-office resistant hypertension (RH) has always been evaluated by comparing clinic BP values with either daytime home BP measurements or the awake BP mean obtained from ambulatory monitoring (ABPM), therefore including patients with either normal or elevated asleep BP mean. Here, we investigated the impact of including asleep BP mean as a requirement for the definition of hypertension on the prevalence, clinical characteristics, and estimated cardiovascular (CVD) risk of isolated-office RH. This cross-sectional study evaluated 3042 patients treated with ≥3 hypertension medications and evaluated by 48-h ABPM (1707 men/1335 women), 64.2 ± 11.6 (mean ± SD) yrs of age, enrolled in the Hygia Project. Among the participants, 522 (17.2%) had true isolated-office RH (elevated clinic BP and controlled awake and asleep ambulatory BPs while treated with 3 hypertension medications), 260 (8.6%) had false isolated-office RH (elevated clinic BP, controlled awake SBP/DBP means, but elevated asleep SBP or DBP mean while treated with 3 hypertension medications), and the remaining 2260 (74.3%) had true RH (elevated awake or asleep SBP/DBP means while treated with 3 medications, or any patient treated with ≥4 medications). Patients with false, relative to those with true, isolated-office RH had higher prevalence of microalbuminuria and chronic kidney disease (CKD), significantly higher albumin/creatinine ratio (p < .001), significantly higher 48-h SBP/DBP means by 9.6/5.3 mm Hg (p < .001), significantly lower sleep-time relative SBP and DBP decline (p < .001), and significantly greater prevalence of a non-dipper BP profile (96.9% vs. 38.9%; p < .001). Additionally, the prevalence of the riser BP pattern, which is associated with highest CVD risk, was much greater, 40.4% vs. 5.0% (p < .001), among patients with false isolated-office RH. The estimated hazard ratio of CVD events, using a fully adjusted model including the significant confounding variables of sex, age, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, asleep SBP mean, and sleep-time relative SBP decline, was significantly greater for patients with false compared with those with true isolated-office RH (2.13 [95% confidence interval: 1.95-2.32]; p < .001). Patients with false isolated-office hypertension and true RH, however, were equivalent for the prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea, metabolic syndrome, obesity, diabetes, microalbuminuria, and chronic kidney disease, and they had an equivalent estimated hazard ratio of CVD events (1.04 [95% confidence interval: .97-1.12]; p = .265). Our findings document a significantly elevated prevalence of a blunted nighttime BP decline in patients here categorized as either false isolated-office RH and true RH, jointly accounting for 82.8% of the studied sample. Previous reports of much lower prevalence of true RH plus a nonsignificant increased CVD risk of this condition compared with isolated-office RH are misleading by disregarding asleep BP mean for classification. Our results further indicate that classification of RH patients into categories of isolated-office RH, masked RH, and true RH cannot be based on the comparison of clinic BP with either daytime home BP measurements or awake BP mean from ABPM, as so far customary in the available literature, totally disregarding the highly significant prognostic value of nighttime BP. Accordingly, ABPM should be regarded as a clinical requirement for proper diagnosis of true RH.

Effects of a new piezoelectric device on periosteal microcirculation after subperiosteal preparation.

PubMed

Stoetzer, Marcus; Felgenträger, Dörthe; Kampmann, Andreas; Schumann, Paul; Rücker, Martin; Gellrich, Nils-Claudius; von See, Constantin

2014-07-01

Subperiosteal preparation using a periosteal elevator leads to disturbances of local periosteal microcirculation. Soft-tissue damage can usually be considerably reduced using piezoelectric technology. For this reason, we investigated the effects of a novel piezoelectric device on local periosteal microcirculation and compared this approach with the conventional preparation of the periosteum using a periosteal elevator. A total of 20 Lewis rats were randomly assigned to one of two groups. Subperiosteal preparation was performed using either a piezoelectric device or a periosteal elevator. Intravital microscopy was performed immediately after the procedure as well as three and eight days postoperatively. Statistical analysis of microcirculatory parameters was performed offline using analysis of variance (ANOVA) on ranks (p<0.05). At all time points investigated, intravital microscopy demonstrated significantly higher levels of periosteal perfusion in the group of rats that underwent piezosurgery than in the group of rats that underwent treatment with a periosteal elevator. The use of a piezoelectric device for subperiosteal preparation is associated with better periosteal microcirculation than the use of a conventional periosteal elevator. As a result, piezoelectric devices can be expected to have a positive effect on bone metabolism. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Tamoxifen-Dependent Induction of AGR2 Is Associated with Increased Aggressiveness of Endometrial Cancer Cells.

PubMed

Hrstka, Roman; Podhorec, Jan; Nenutil, Rudolf; Sommerova, Lucia; Obacz, Joanna; Durech, Michal; Faktor, Jakub; Bouchal, Pavel; Skoupilova, Hana; Vojtesek, Borivoj

2017-05-28

Tamoxifen treatment in breast cancer patients is associated with increased risk of endometrial malignancies. Significantly, higher AGR2 expression was found in endometrial cancers that developed in women previously treated with tamoxifen compared to those who had not been exposed to tamoxifen. An association of elevated AGR2 level with myometrial invasion occurrence and invasion depth was also found. In vitro analyses identified a stimulatory effect of AGR2 on cellular proliferation. Although adverse tamoxifen effects on endometrial cells remain elusive, our work identifies elevated AGR2 as a candidate tamoxifen-dependent mechanism of action responsible for increased incidence of endometrial cancer.

Elevated peripheral cytokines characterize a subgroup of people with schizophrenia displaying poor verbal fluency and reduced Broca's area volume

PubMed Central

Fillman, S G; Weickert, T W; Lenroot, R K; Catts, S V; Bruggemann, J M; Catts, V S; Weickert, C S

2016-01-01

Previous studies on schizophrenia have detected elevated cytokines in both brain and blood, suggesting neuroinflammation may contribute to the pathophysiology in some cases. We aimed to determine the extent to which elevated peripheral cytokine messenger RNA (mRNA) expression: (1) characterizes a subgroup of people with schizophrenia and (2) shows a relationship to cognition, brain volume and/or symptoms. Forty-three outpatients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder and matched healthy controls were assessed for peripheral cytokine mRNAs (interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-2, IL-6, IL-8 and IL-18), intelligence quotient, memory and verbal fluency, symptom severity and cortical brain volumes integral to language (that is, Broca's and Wernicke's areas). IL-1β mRNA levels were 28% increased in schizophrenia compared with controls (t(82)=2.64, P<0.01). Using a two-step clustering procedure, we identified a subgroup of people displaying relatively elevated cytokine mRNA levels (17/43 people with schizophrenia and 9/42 controls). Individuals with schizophrenia in the elevated cytokine subgroup performed significantly worse than the low-cytokine subgroup on verbal fluency (F(1,40)=15.7, P<0.001). There was a 17% volume reduction of the left pars opercularis (POp) (Broca's area) in patients with elevated cytokines compared with patients with lower cytokines (F(1,29)=9.41, P=0.005). Negative linear relationships between IL-1β mRNA levels and both verbal fluency and left POp volume were found in schizophrenia. This study is among the first to link blood biomarkers of inflammation with both cognitive deficits and brain volume reductions in people with schizophrenia, supporting that those with elevated cytokines represent a neurobiologically meaningful subgroup. These findings raise the possibility that targeted anti-inflammatory treatments may ameliorate cognitive and brain morphological abnormalities in some people with schizophrenia. PMID:26194183

Contrasting effects of elevated CO2 and warming on temperature sensitivity of soil organic matter decomposition in a Chinese paddy field.

PubMed

Chen, Zhaozhi; Wang, Bingyu; Wang, Jinyang; Pan, Genxing; Xiong, Zhengqin

2015-10-01

Climate changes including elevated CO2 and temperature have been known to affect soil carbon (C) storage, while the effects of climate changes on the temperature sensitivity of soil organic matter (SOM) are unclear. A 365-day laboratory incubation was used to investigate the temperature sensitivity for decomposition of labile (Q 10-L) and recalcitrant (Q 10-R) SOMs by comparing the time required to decompose a given amount of C at 25 and 35 °C. Soils were collected from a paddy field that was subjected to four treatments: ambient CO2 and temperature, elevated CO2 (500 μmol/mol), enhanced temperature (+2 °C), and their combination. The results showed that the temperature sensitivity of SOM decomposition increased with increasing SOM recalcitrance in this paddy soil (Q 10-L = 2.21 ± 0.16 vs. Q 10-R = 2.78 ± 0.42; mean ± SD). Elevated CO2 and enhanced temperature showed contrasting effects on the temperature sensitivity of SOM decomposition. Elevated CO2 stimulated Q 10-R but had no effect on Q 10-L; in contrast, enhanced temperature increased Q 10-L but had no effect on Q 10-R. Furthermore, the elevated CO2 combined with enhanced temperature treatment significantly increased Q 10-L and Q 10-R by 18.9 and 10.2 %, respectively, compared to the ambient conditions. Results suggested that the responses of SOM to temperature, especially for the recalcitrant SOM pool, were altered by climate changes. The greatly enhanced temperature sensitivity of SOM decomposition by elevated CO2 and temperature indicates that more CO2 will be released to the atmosphere and losses of soil C may be even greater than that previously expected in paddy field.

The relation of somatotypes and stress response to central serous chorioretinopathy.

PubMed

Schwartz, Roy; Rozenberg, Assaf; Loewenstein, Anat; Goldstein, Michaella

2017-12-01

To investigate a possible relationship between central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) and specific body types and compositions (somatotypes), and to examine the cortisol stress response among CSC patients of different somatotypes in comparison with healthy subjects. Prospective case-control study. A group of 28 patients with a previous or current diagnosis of CSC was compared with a group of 26 healthy subjects. Anthropometric measurements were used to estimate somatotype ratings in all subjects. Serum cortisol was measured at rest and following a stress-inducing computerized test in order to estimate response to stress in both groups. The main outcome measures included somatotype categorization and the change in serum cortisol following stress in both groups. No significant difference in somatotype composition was found between the groups. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in the elevation of cortisol following the stress-inducing test. The sample size was too small to exclude or find any significant difference between the different 13 subgroups of somatotype composition in the elevation of cortisol. Our study did not show a typical somatotype related to CSC. While previous studies showed higher cortisol values in CSC patients, we did not see a higher elevation in blood cortisol following a stress response in this group in comparison with healthy subjects.

Up-regulation of fatty acid synthase induced by EGFR/ERK activation promotes tumor growth in pancreatic cancer

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

Bian, Yong, E-mail: drbiany@126.com; Yu, Yun; Wang, Shanshan

2015-08-07

Lipid metabolism is dysregulated in many human diseases including atherosclerosis, type 2 diabetes and cancers. Fatty acid synthase (FASN), a key lipogenic enzyme involved in de novo lipid biosynthesis, is significantly upregulated in multiple types of human cancers and associates with tumor progression. However, limited data is available to understand underlying biological functions and clinical significance of overexpressed FASN in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Here, upregulated FASN was more frequently observed in PDAC tissues compared with normal pancreas in a tissue microarray. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis revealed that high expression level of FASN resulted in a significantly poor prognosis of PDACmore » patients. Knockdown or inhibition of endogenous FASN decreased cell proliferation and increased cell apoptosis in HPAC and AsPC-1 cells. Furthermore, we demonstrated that EGFR/ERK signaling accounts for elevated FASN expression in PDAC as ascertained by performing siRNA assays and using specific pharmacological inhibitors. Collectively, our results indicate that FASN exhibits important roles in tumor growth and EGFR/ERK pathway is responsible for upregulated expression of FASN in PDAC. - Highlights: • Increased expression of FASN indicates a poor prognosis in PDAC. • Elevated FASN favors tumor growth in PDAC in vitro. • Activation of EGFR signaling contributes to elevated FASN expression.« less

Hypoadiponectinemia, elevated iron and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels and their relation with prostate size in benign prostatic hyperplasia.

PubMed

Nandeesha, H; Eldhose, A; Dorairajan, L N; Anandhi, B

2017-09-01

Elevated iron, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (CRP) and hypoadiponectinemia are known to initiate tumour development. There is paucity of data regarding the above-mentioned parameters and their relation with prostate size in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The present study was designed to assess the levels of iron, hs-CRP and adiponectin levels and their association with prostate size in BPH patients. A total of 37 BPH cases and 36 controls were enrolled in the study. Iron, hs-CRP and adiponectin were estimated in both the groups. Iron and hs-CRP were significantly increased and adiponectin was significantly reduced in BPH cases when compared with controls. Iron (r = .397, p = .015), hs-CRP (r = .341, p = .039) and adiponectin (r = -.464, p = .004) were significantly associated with prostate size in BPH cases. Multivariate linear regression analysis showed that iron acts as predictor of prostate size in BPH (R 2  = 0.395, β = 0.526, p = .001). We conclude that iron and hs-CRP are elevated and adiponectin is reduced in BPH cases and associated with prostate size. © 2016 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.

Postprandial gastrointestinal blood flow, oxygen consumption and heart rate in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss).

PubMed

Eliason, Erika J; Higgs, David A; Farrell, Anthony P

2008-04-01

The present study is the first to simultaneously and continuously measure oxygen consumption (MO(2)) and gastrointestinal blood flow (q(gi)) in fish. In addition, while it is the first to compare the effects of three isoenergetic diets on q(gi) in fish, no significant differences among diets were found for postprandial MO(2), q(gi) or heart rate (f(H)) in rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss. Postprandial q(gi), f(H) and MO(2) were significantly elevated above baseline levels by 4 h. Postprandial q(gi) peaked at 136% above baseline after 11 h, f(H) peaked at 110% above baseline after 14 h and MO(2) peaked at 96% above baseline after 27 h. Moreover, postprandial MO(2) remained significantly elevated above baseline longer than q(gi) (for 41 h and 30 h, respectively), perhaps because most of the increase in MO(2) associated with feeding is due to protein handling, a process that continues following the absorption of nutrients which is thought to be the primary reason for the elevation of q(gi). In addition to the positive relationships found between postprandial MO(2) and q(gi) and between postprandial MO(2) and f(H), we discovered a novel relationship between postprandial q(gi) and f(H).

Atmospheric particulate matter size distribution and concentration in West Virginia coal mining and non-mining areas.

PubMed

Kurth, Laura M; McCawley, Michael; Hendryx, Michael; Lusk, Stephanie

2014-07-01

People who live in Appalachian areas where coal mining is prominent have increased health problems compared with people in non-mining areas of Appalachia. Coal mines and related mining activities result in the production of atmospheric particulate matter (PM) that is associated with human health effects. There is a gap in research regarding particle size concentration and distribution to determine respiratory dose around coal mining and non-mining areas. Mass- and number-based size distributions were determined with an Aerodynamic Particle Size and Scanning Mobility Particle Sizer to calculate lung deposition around mining and non-mining areas of West Virginia. Particle number concentrations and deposited lung dose were significantly greater around mining areas compared with non-mining areas, demonstrating elevated risks to humans. The greater dose was correlated with elevated disease rates in the West Virginia mining areas. Number concentrations in the mining areas were comparable to a previously documented urban area where number concentration was associated with respiratory and cardiovascular disease.

Elevated IL-8 levels during sickle cell crisis.

PubMed

Duits, A J; Schnog, J B; Lard, L R; Saleh, A W; Rojer, R A

1998-11-01

The vaso-occlusive process (VOC) in sickle cell disease is of a complex nature. It involves intricate interactions between sickle red blood cells, endothelium and probably also leukocytes. As these interactions are regulated by cytokines, we analyzed the role of the potent neutrophil chemokine IL-8 by measuring serum levels in sickle cell patients during sickle cell crisis. These results were compared to nonsymptomatics and healthy controls. In patients having a vaso-occlusive crisis both HbSS and HbSC patients showed significantly enhanced serum IL-8 levels compared to healthy controls. Several of these patients showed extremely elevated serum IL-8 levels which were independent of the crisis inducing factor. Furthermore, a sickle cell patient with VOC as a complication of rhGM-CSF treatment similarly showed high IL-8 serum levels at crisis onset. Nonsymptomatic sickle cell patients serum IL-8 levels were comparable to healthy controls. These results implicate a role for IL-8 at or during (the initiation of) sickle cell crisis.

Investigating autism spectrum disorder and autistic traits in early onset eating disorder.

PubMed

Pooni, Jyoti; Ninteman, Aafke; Bryant-Waugh, Rachel; Nicholls, Dasha; Mandy, William

2012-05-01

To investigate whether young people (8-16 years) with an eating disorder have a higher prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASDs) and elevated autistic traits compared to typically developing (TD) peers. Twenty-two participants with early onset eating disorder (EOED) were assessed using standardized ASD measures and compared to IQ matched TD (n = 24) and ASD (n = 20) controls. An ASD diagnosis was no more common in EOED than in TD controls. However, repetitive and stereotyped behavior was more often observed in the EOED group and, compared to TD controls, there was a trend (p = .07) toward greater autistic social impairment in EOED. Whilst participants with EOED did not show increased ASD prevalence, they did have elevated autistic traits of clinical significance, particularly repetitive and stereotyped behavior. Further work is required to determine whether inflexibility and social difficulties in EOED have identical phenomenology and etiology to those seen in ASD. Copyright © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Maxillary sinus floor elevation using a tissue-engineered bone with calcium-magnesium phosphate cement and bone marrow stromal cells in rabbits.

PubMed

Zeng, Deliang; Xia, Lunguo; Zhang, Wenjie; Huang, Hui; Wei, Bin; Huang, Qingfeng; Wei, Jie; Liu, Changsheng; Jiang, Xinquan

2012-04-01

The objective of this study was to assess the effects of maxillary sinus floor elevation with a tissue-engineered bone constructed with bone marrow stromal cells (bMSCs) and calcium-magnesium phosphate cement (CMPC) material. The calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and phosphorus (P) ions released from calcium phosphate cement (CPC), magnesium phosphate cement (MPC), and CMPC were detected by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES), and the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of bMSCs seeded on CPC, MPC, and CMPC or cultured in CPC, MPC, and CMPC extracts were measured by MTT analysis, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity assay, alizarin red mineralization assay, and real-time PCR analysis of the osteogenic genes ALP and osteocalcin (OCN). Finally, bMSCs were combined with CPC, MPC, and CMPC and used for maxillary sinus floor elevation in rabbits, while CPC, MPC, or CMPC without cells served as control groups. The new bone formation in each group was detected by histological finding and fluorochrome labeling at weeks 2 and 8 after surgical operation. It was observed that the Ca ion concentrations of the CMPC and CPC scaffolds was significantly higher than that of the MPC scaffold, while the Mg ions concentration of CMPC and MPC was significantly higher than that of CPC. The bMSCs seeded on CMPC and MPC or cultured in their extracts proliferated more quickly than the cells seeded on CPC or cultured in its extract, respectively. The osteogenic differentiation of bMSCs seeded on CMPC and CPC or cultured in the corresponding extracts was significantly enhanced compared to that of bMSCs seeded on MPC or cultured in its extract; however, there was no significant difference between CMPC and CPC. As for maxillary sinus floor elevation in vivo, CMPC could promote more new bone formation and mineralization compared to CPC and MPC, while the addition of bMSCs could further enhance its new bone formation ability significantly. Our data suggest that CMPC possesses moderate biodegradability and excellent osteoconductivity, which may be attributed to its Ca and Mg ion composition, and the tissue-engineered bone constructed of CMPC and bMSCs might be a potential alterative graft for maxillofacial bone regeneration.

Elevated serum BAFF levels in patients with localized scleroderma in contrast to other organ-specific autoimmune diseases.

PubMed

Matsushita, Takashi; Hasegawa, Minoru; Matsushita, Yukiyo; Echigo, Takeshi; Wayaku, Takamasa; Horikawa, Mayuka; Ogawa, Fumihide; Takehara, Kazuhiko; Sato, Shinichi

2007-02-01

Serum levels of B-cell activating factor belonging to the tumor necrosis factor family (BAFF), a potent B-cell survival factor, are elevated in patients with systemic autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis and systemic sclerosis (SSc). The objective of this study was to determine serum BAFF levels and relate the results to the clinical features in patients with organ-specific autoimmune diseases of the skin, such as localized scleroderma and autoimmune bullous diseases. Serum BAFF levels were examined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in 44 patients with localized scleroderma, 20 with pemphigus vulgaris/pemphigus foliaceus, 20 with bullous pemphigoid and 30 healthy controls. Twenty patients with SSc and 20 with SLE were also examined as disease controls. Serum BAFF levels were elevated in localized scleroderma patients compared with healthy controls. Concerning localized scleroderma subgroups, patients with generalized morphea, the severest form of localized scleroderma, had higher serum BAFF levels than linear scleroderma or morphea patients. The BAFF levels of generalized morphea were comparable with those of SSc or SLE. Furthermore, serum BAFF levels correlated positively with antihistone antibody levels and the severity of skin lesion as well as the number of skin lesions. By contrast, serum BAFF levels were not significantly elevated in patients with pemphigus or pemphigoid. These results suggest that BAFF may be contributing to autoimmunity and disease development in localized scleroderma.

Association of cardiometabolic risk profile with prehypertension accompany hyperhomocysteinaemia.

PubMed

Chen, Huili; Sun, Yuemin; Wang, Xuechun; Si, Quan; Yao, Wei; Wan, Zheng

2015-01-01

Study suggested that elevated homocysteine showed a multiplicative effect on cardiovascular diseases in hypertensive subjects. It was reported that elevated homocysteine level was independently associated with increased arterial stiffness in prehypertensives. It remains unclear whether prehypertensives combined with elevated homocysteine have adverse cardiovascular risk factors. We aimed to compare cardiometabolic risk profile between prehypertensives with hyperhomocysteinaemia and those without either condition. Plasma total homocysteine and risk profile were determined among 874 Chinese non-hypertension individuals in Tianjin. They were subdivided into four groups: prehypertension with hyperhomocysteinaemia (≥10 μmol/L), prehypertension with normal homocysteine (<10 μmol/L), normotension with hyperhomocysteinaemia, normotension with normol homocysteine, respectively. In 874 participants, 22.5% of them were male, mean age was 56.8 years. In multiple comparisons, after adjustment for age, gender, smoking, alcohol, exercise, education prehypertensives had higher body mass index (BMI) and high sensitive C reactive protein (hs-CRP) than normotensives (p < 0.05, respectively); Only prehypertensive subjects with hyperhomocysteinaemia had higher triglyceride and serum uric acid compared to normotensive subjects, and lower HDL cholesterol than normotensives with normal homocysteine (p < 0.05, respectively). However, the significance of higher hs-CRP, uric acid and lower HDL cholesterol were abolished when further adjustment was made for BMI. The combination of prehypertension and hyperhomocusteinaemia increases the likelihood of having adverse cardiometabolic risk profile. Strict lipid management and weigh control may be needed in prehypertensives with elevated homocysteine.

CO 2 elevation improves photosynthetic performance in progressive warming environment in white birch seedlings.

PubMed

Zhang, Shouren; Dang, Qing-Lai

2013-01-01

White birch (Betula paperifera Mash) seedlings were exposed to progressively warming in greenhouses under ambient and elevated CO 2 concentrations for 5 months to explore boreal tree species' potential capacity to acclimate to global climate warming and CO 2 elevation. In situ foliar gas exchange, in vivo carboxylation characteristics and chlorophyll fluorescence were measured at temperatures of 26 (o)C and 37 (o)C. Elevated CO 2 significantly increased net photosynthetic rate (Pn) at both measurement temperatures, and Pn at 37 (o)C was higher than that at 26 (o)C under elevated CO 2. Stomatal conductance (gs) was lower at 37 (o)C than at 26 (o)C, while transpiration rate (E) was higher at 37 (o)C than that at 26 (o)C. Elevated CO 2 significantly increased instantaneous water-use efficiency (WUE) at both 26 (o)C and 37 (o)C, but WUE was markedly enhanced at 37 (o)C under elevated CO 2. The effect of temperature on maximal carboxylation rate (Vcmax), PAR-saturated electron transport rate (Jmax) and triose phosphate utilization (TPU) varied with CO 2, and the Vcmax and Jmax were significantly higher at 37 (o)C than at 26 (o)C under elevated CO 2. However, there were no significant interactive effects of CO 2 and temperature on TPU. The actual photochemical efficiency of PSII (DF/ Fm'), total photosynthetic linear electron transport rate through PSII (JT) and the partitioning of JT to carboxylation (Jc) were higher at 37 (o)C than at 26 (o)C under elevated CO 2. Elevated CO 2 significantly suppressed the partitioning of JT to oxygenation (Jo/JT). The data suggest that the CO 2 elevation and progressive warming greatly enhanced photosynthesis in white birch seedlings in an interactive fashion.

Sleep-disordered breathing is associated with depletion of circulating endothelial progenitor cells and elevation in pulmonary arterial pressure in patients with decompensated systolic heart failure.

PubMed

Zhang, Han; Feng, Liu; Wan, Qi-Lin; Hong, Yan; Li, Yan-Ming; Cheng, Guan-Chang; Han, Xin-Qiang

2015-07-01

Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is known to occur frequently in and may predict worsening progression of patients with congestive heart failure (CHF). SDB is also known to play an important role in the development of idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) via inducing endothelial dysfunction and vascular remodeling, a pathological process that can be significantly influenced by factors such as osteoprotegerin (OPG) and endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs). The objective of this study is to determine if CHF with SDB is associated with changes in OPG, EPCs, and PAH. EPCs were isolated, cultured, and quantified from CHF patients with SDB (n = 52), or without SDB (n = 68). OPG and N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) from each group was analyzed and correlated with EPCs and the mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) measured by right heart catheterization. A significant decrease in circulating EPCs (29.30 ± 9.01 vs. 45.17 ± 10.51 EPCs/× 200 field; P < 0.05) was found in CHF patients with SDB compared to those without SDB. Both OPG (789.83 ± 89.38 vs. 551.29 ± 42.12 pg/mL; P < 0.05) and NT-proBNP (5946.50 ± 1434.50 vs. 3028.60 ± 811.90 ng/mL; P < 0.05) were also significantly elevated in SDB CHF patients who also had significantly elevated mPAP (50.2 ± 9.5 vs. 36.4 ± 4.1 mm Hg; P < 0.05). EPC numbers correlated inversely with the episodes of apnea and hypopnea per hour (RDI, r = -0.45, P = 0.037) and blood level of OPG (r = -0.53, P = 0.011). Although NT-proBNP was also increased significantly in patients with SDB, it had no correlation with either EPCs or RDI. SDB due to hypoxemia from decompensated CHF is associated with (1) OPG elevation, (2) EPC depletion, and (3) mPAP elevation. The inverse relationship of circulating OPG with EPCs suggests a likely mechanism for hypoxemia and OPG in the development of pulmonary vascular dysfunction via depleting EPCs, thus worsening prognosis of CHF.

Heart Disease Death Rates in Low Versus High Land Elevation Counties in the U.S.

PubMed

Hart, John

2015-01-01

Previous research on land elevation and cancer death rates in the U.S. revealed lower cancer death rates in higher elevations. The present study further tests the possible effect of land elevation on a diffident health outcome, namely, heart disease death rates. U.S. counties not overlapping in their land elevations according to their lowest and highest elevation points were identified. Using an ecological design, heart disease death rates for two races (black and white) corresponding to lower elevation counties were compared to heart disease death rates in higher land elevation counties using the two-sample t-test and effect size statistics. Death rates in higher land elevation counties for both races were lower compared to the death rates in lower land elevation counties (p < 0.001) with large effect sizes (of > 0.70). Since this is an observational study, no causal inference is claimed, and further research is indicated to verify these findings.

Heart Disease Death Rates in Low Versus High Land Elevation Counties in the U.S

PubMed Central

2015-01-01

Previous research on land elevation and cancer death rates in the U.S. revealed lower cancer death rates in higher elevations. The present study further tests the possible effect of land elevation on a diffident health outcome, namely, heart disease death rates. U.S. counties not overlapping in their land elevations according to their lowest and highest elevation points were identified. Using an ecological design, heart disease death rates for two races (black and white) corresponding to lower elevation counties were compared to heart disease death rates in higher land elevation counties using the two-sample t-test and effect size statistics. Death rates in higher land elevation counties for both races were lower compared to the death rates in lower land elevation counties (p < 0.001) with large effect sizes (of > 0.70). Since this is an observational study, no causal inference is claimed, and further research is indicated to verify these findings. PMID:26674102

Distal radius fractures result in alterations in scapular kinematics: a three-dimensional motion analysis.

PubMed

Ayhan, Cigdem; Turgut, Elif; Baltaci, Gul

2015-03-01

Scapular motion is closely integrated with arm motion. Injury to a distal segment requires compensatory changes in the proximal segments leading to alterations in scapular motion. Since the effects of distal injuries on scapular kinematics remain unknown, in the present study we investigated the influences on scapular motion in patients with distal injuries. Sixteen subjects with a history of distal radius fracture and 20 asymptomatic healthy subjects (controls) participated in the study. Three-dimensional scapular and humeral kinematic data were collected on all 3 planes of shoulder elevation: frontal, sagittal, and scapular. All testing was performed in a single session; therefore, the sensors remained attached to the participants for all testing. The position and orientation data of the scapula at 30°, 60°, 90°, and 120° humerothoracic elevation and 120°, 90°, 60°, and 30° lowering were used for statistical comparisons. Independent samples t-test was used to compare the scapular internal/external rotation, upward/downward rotation, and anterior/posterior tilt between the affected side of subjects with a distal radius fracture and the dominant side of asymptomatic subjects at the same stage of humerothoracic elevation. Scapular internal rotation was significantly increased at 30° elevation (P=0.01), 90° elevation (P=0.03), and 30° lowering (P=0.03), and upward rotation was increased at 30° and 60° elevation (P<0.001) on the affected side during frontal plane elevation. Scapular upward rotation and anterior tilt were significantly increased during 30° lowering on both the scapular (P=0.002 and 0.02, respectively) and sagittal planes (P=0.01 and 0.02. respectively). Patients with distal radius fractures exhibit altered scapular kinematics, which may further contribute to the development of secondary musculoskeletal pathologies. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Post-9/11 cancer incidence in World Trade Center-exposed New York City firefighters as compared to a pooled cohort of firefighters from San Francisco, Chicago and Philadelphia (9/11/2001-2009).

PubMed

Moir, William; Zeig-Owens, Rachel; Daniels, Robert D; Hall, Charles B; Webber, Mayris P; Jaber, Nadia; Yiin, James H; Schwartz, Theresa; Liu, Xiaoxue; Vossbrinck, Madeline; Kelly, Kerry; Prezant, David J

2016-09-01

We previously reported a modest excess of cancer in World Trade Center (WTC)-exposed firefighters versus the general population. This study aimed to separate the potential carcinogenic effects of firefighting and WTC exposure by comparing to a cohort of non-WTC-exposed firefighters. Relative rates (RRs) for all cancers combined and individual cancer subtypes from 9/11/2001 to 12/31/2009 were modeled using Poisson regression comparing 11,457 WTC-exposed firefighters to 8,220 urban non-WTC-exposed firefighters. Compared with non-WTC-exposed firefighters, there was no difference in the RR of all cancers combined for WTC-exposed firefighters (RR = 0.96, 95%CI: 0.83-1.12). Thyroid cancer was significantly elevated (RR = 3.82, 95%CI: 1.07-20.81) from 2001 to 2009; this was attenuated (RR = 3.43, 95%CI: 0.94-18.94) and non-significant when controlling for possible surveillance bias. Prostate cancer was elevated during the latter half (2005-2009; RR = 1.38, 95%CI: 1.01-1.88). Further follow-up is needed to assess the relationship between WTC exposure and cancers with longer latency periods. Am. J. Ind. Med. 59:722-730, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Evaluation of biochemical changes in chronic arsenic poisoning among Bangladeshi patients.

PubMed

Nabi, A H M Nurun; Rahman, M Mahfuzur; Islam, Laila N

2005-12-01

An estimated 40 million people in Bangladesh have been suffering from arsenic toxicity-related diseases because of drinking water contamination with high levels of naturally occurring arsenic. To evaluate the biochemical changes in chronic arsenic exposure, a total of 115 exposed subjects diagnosed as arsenicosis patients were examined and interviewed, and 120 unexposed volunteers were enrolled in this study. Drinking water, urine and peripheral blood samples were collected from all participants and analyzed. The average levels of arsenic in the drinking water and spot urine samples of the arsenicosis patients were 218.1 microg/L and 234.6 microg/L, respectively, and duration of exposure was 7.6 +/- 5.2 yrs that ranged from 1-25 yrs. Prevalence of diabetes mellitus among chronic arsenic-exposed subjects was about 2.8 times higher than the unexposed subjects. The activities of alkaline phosphatase were significantly elevated in the patients, 197 U/L compared to 149 U/L in the controls, but alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase were mostly normal. The patients had significantly lower levels of serum creatinine, 0.97 mg/dL compared to 1.15 mg/dL in the controls; but had significantly elevated levels of total protein, 84 g/L and 77 g/L respectively. The mean level of inorganic phosphate in the serum of arsenicosis patients was 6.4 mg/dL compared to 4.6 mg/dL in the unexposed subjects and the level was significantly higher, indicating substitution of the pentavalent arsenate for the phosphate ion causing underutilization of the latter. Evaluation of the lipid profiles showed while the levels of triacylglycerol were not much different, the patients had significantly lower levels of cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol compared to the unexposed subjects. These findings suggest significant changes in biochemical parameters in human arsenic toxicity.

Effects of elevation and seed source on tracheid length in young ponderosa pine

Treesearch

R. M. Echols

1973-01-01

Tracheid lengths in 30-year-old ponderosa pine progeny test plantations in the central Sierra Nevada of California were analyzed for effects of (a) elevation of seed parents and (b) elevation and location of test sites. The influence of elevation of seed parents on progeny tracheid length was not significant. Plantation location was significant, but interaction between...

Gender and Gonadal Status Differences in Zona Reticularis Expression in Marmoset Monkey Adrenals: Cytochrome b5 Localization With Respect To Cytochrome P450 17,20-Lyase Activity.

PubMed Central

Pattison, J Christina; Saltzman, Wendy; Abbott, David H; Hogan, Brynn K; Nguyen, Ann D; Husen, Bettina; Einspanier, Almuth; Conley, Alan J; Bird., Ian M

2007-01-01

Neonatal marmosets express an adrenal fetal zone comparable to humans. While adult males fail to express a functional ZR, with barely detectable blood DHEA levels, females produce higher levels of DHEA than males in adulthood. We investigated the presence of a putative functional ZR in adult female marmosets. In contrast to males, immunohistochemical analysis showed the ZR marker cytochrome b5 was elevated in the innermost zone in cycling females (compared to testis-intact males), further elevated in the adrenals from anovulatory females, and substantially elevated and continuous in ovariectomized females. As a functional test in vivo, following overnight dexamethasone treatment, cycling and anovulatory females showed higher levels of DHEA relative to males, but DHEA failed to increase in response to ACTH. In direct contrast, while ovariectomized females exhibited lower initial DHEA levels, clear increases were detectable after ACTH administration (p<0.05), suggesting an adrenal origin. The apparent differences in cytochrome b5 expression between groups were also further verified by western blotting of adrenal microsomes, and compared to 17,20-lyase activity; the two parameters were positively correlated (p<0.01) across multiple treatment groups. We conclude that the cycling female marmoset expresses a rudimentary ZR with at least a capacity for DHEA production that becomes significantly ACTH-responsive after anovulation. Expression of cytochrome b5 in this region may be directly or indirectly controlled by gonadal function, and is, at least in part, a critical determinant in the development of an adrenal ZR that is more defined and significantly ACTH-responsive. PMID:17222503

Concentration of heavy metals in drinking water of different localities in district east Karachi.

PubMed

Jaleel, M A; Noreen, R; Baseer, A

2001-01-01

Several heavy metals are present in drinking water that play important roles in the body provided their level remains within the specified range recommended by WHO. But now due to the industrialization and rapid urbanization, the problems of pollution have surfaced. This study was designed to ascertain the contents of some heavy metals and then their variations if any in drinking water in different localities of district East of Karachi, Pakistan. Drinking water samples were collected from different sources and localities of district East of Karachi. The concentration of the heavy metals i.e. Lead, Arsenic, Copper, Iron, Mercury, Chromium, Manganese, Nickel, Cadmium and Zinc were determined by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry. PH was estimated by pH meter. Total dissolved solids (TDS) were calculated by formula. These concentrations of heavy metals, pH and TDS were compared with the standards set by WHO. Concentrations of lead and nickel were found to be significantly elevated as compared to WHO recommended levels in all the three sources of water (Piped water, Hand pump water and Tanker water supply). Chromium was found to be raised in hand pump water. Arsenic and Mercury were not detected in any source of water. Copper, iron, manganese, cadmium and zinc were found to be within the safe limits in all the three sources of water. pH was found to be within the range of WHO recommended level in all the three sources of water. TDS was found to be elevated in hand pump water and tanker water. Concentrations of lead and nickel were found to be significantly elevated as compared to WHO recommended levels in all the three sources of water in district East of Karachi.

Elevation of blood lead levels in emergency department patients with extra-articular retained missiles.

PubMed

Nguyen, Ann; Schaider, Jeffrey J; Manzanares, Mariah; Hanaki, Roy; Rydman, Robert J; Bokhari, Faran

2005-02-01

Patients who survive gunshot wounds often have retained missiles. Unlike intra-articular retained missiles, extra-articular retained missiles (EARMs) are not routinely removed. Cases of lead toxicity from EARMs have been described. This study seeks to determine whether blood lead levels are elevated in emergency department patients with EARMs compared with matched controls, whether clinical symptoms of lead toxicity are more prevalent in patients with EARMs than in controls, and whether longer missile retention times or recent hypermetabolic conditions are associated with higher blood lead levels. One hundred twenty adults with EARMs and 120 age- and gender-matched controls with no history of gunshot wound were prospectively enrolled on presentation to a large urban emergency department. Whole blood lead (WBL), zinc protoporphyrin, and hemoglobin levels were obtained. Patients completed a questionnaire regarding time since gunshot injury; symptoms of lead toxicity; and occurrence within 30 days of any surgery, alcohol abuse, illicit drug abuse, diabetic ketoacidosis, hyperthyroidism, infection, fracture, pregnancy, or lactation. Five EARM patients (4%) and no control patients (0%) had WBL greater than our threshold for medical follow-up (20 microg/dL). Mean WBL was 6.71 microg/dL (95% confidence interval [CI], 5.68-7.74 microg/dL) in EARM patients and 3.16 mug/dL (95% CI, 2.79-3.53 microg/dL) in controls. This difference was statistically significant when analyzed by matched pairs t test (p = 0.0001). There was no difference in the number of symptoms associated with lead toxicity that were noted by EARM patients versus controls (p = 0.377). Longer duration of missile retention was not associated with higher blood lead levels (r = 0.125, p = 0.172). Of the five hypermetabolic conditions analyzed, only fractures were associated with elevated blood lead levels (9.95 microg/dL [95% CI, 5.77-14.13 microg/dL] in EARM patients with fractures vs. 6.23 microg/dL [95% CI, 5.23-7.23 microg/dL] in EARM patients without fractures). Patients with EARMs have significantly elevated blood lead levels compared with matched controls. The occurrence of a bony fracture within the past 30 days is associated with a higher lead level. In 96% of patients with EARMs, elevated lead levels were not clinically significant and did not change patient management.

Sex and race/ethnic disparities in the cross-sectional association between depressive symptoms and muscle mass: the Multi-ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis.

PubMed

Remigio-Baker, Rosemay A; Allison, Matthew A; Schreiner, Pamela J; Carnethon, Mercedes R; Nettleton, Jennifer A; Mujahid, Mahasin S; Szklo, Moyses; Crum, Rosa M; Leuotsakos, Jeannie-Marie; Franco, Manuel; Jensky, Nicole; Golden, Sherita Hill

2015-09-18

The cross-sectional area of total muscle mass has been reported to decrease by about 40% for those 20-60 years of age. Depressive symptoms may discourage motivation to engage in physical activity such as strength training shown to negate muscle loss. Inflammation related to depressive symptoms may also contribute to muscle atrophy. Physiological differences by sex and race/ethnicity may also modify the association between depression and muscle mass. Evidence on the relationship between depression (or depressive symptoms) and adiposity has been mounting; however, little is known about the depressive symptoms-muscle mass association. We sought to determine the association between elevated depressive symptoms (EDS) and lean muscle mass and whether this varies by sex and race/ethnicity. Evaluating 1605 adults (45-84 years of age) from the Multi-ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis Abdominal Body Composition, Inflammation and Cardiovascular Disease Study, we examined the cross-sectional association between EDS (Center for Epidemiologic Studies for Depression Scale score≥16 and/or antidepressant use) and computed tomography-measured abdominal lean muscle mass using linear regression. Muscles were evaluated as a whole and by functionality (locomotion vs. stabilization/posture). Covariates included height, body mass index, sociodemographics, comorbidities, inflammatory markers and health behaviors (pack-years of smoking, alcohol locomotion compared to men, total intentional exercise, daily caloric intake). Sex and race/ethnicity were assessed as potential modifiers. Statistical significance was at a p<0.05 for main effects and <0.20 for interaction. Men with elevated depressive symptoms had 5.9 cm2 lower lean muscle mass for locomotion compared to men without EDS, fully-adjusted (CI=-10.5, -1.4, p=0.011). This was statistically significantly different from the null finding among women (interaction p=0.05). Chinese participants with EDS had 10.2 cm2 lower abdominal lean muscle mass for locomotion compared to those without EDS (fully-adjusted, CI=-18.3, -2.1, p=0.014), which was significantly different from the null relationship among White participants (interaction p=0.04). No association was observed between elevated depressive symptoms and muscle for stabilization/posture evaluating the whole population or stratified by sex or race/ethnicity. In the presence of elevated depressive symptoms, men and Chinese participants may have lower muscle mass, particularly for locomotion.

Neutrophil Collagenase, Gelatinase and Myeloperoxidase in Tears of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and Ocular Cicatricial Pemphigoid Patients

PubMed Central

Arafat, Samer N.; Suelves, Ana M.; Spurr-Michaud, Sandra; Chodosh, James; Foster, C. Stephen; Dohlman, Claes H.; Gipson, Ilene K.

2013-01-01

Objective To investigate the levels of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), myeloperoxidase (MPO) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) in tears of patients with Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and ocular cicatricial pemphigoid (OCP). Design Prospective non-interventional cohort study. Participants Four SJS patients (7 eyes), 19 OCP patients (37 eyes) and 20 post-phacoemulsification healthy controls (40 eyes). Methods Tear washes were collected from all patients and were analyzed for levels of MMP-2, -3, -7, -8, -9, -12, MPO and TIMP-1 using multi-analyte bead-based enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). Total MMP activity was determined using a fluorimetric assay. Correlation studies were performed between the various analytes within study groups. Main Outcome Measures Levels of MMP-2, -3, -7, -8, -9, -12, MPO and TIMP-1 (in ng/µg protein), total MMP activity (in relative fluorescent units/min/µg protein) in tears, MMP-8/TIMP-1, MMP-9/TIMP-1 ratios and the correlations between MMP-8 and MMP-9 and each MMP and MPO. Results MMP-8, MMP-9 and MPO levels were significantly elevated in SJS and OCP tears (SJS > OCP) when compared to controls. MMP activity was highest in SJS while OCP and controls showed lower and similar activities. TIMP-1 levels were decreased in SJS and OCP when compared to controls with OCP levels reaching significance. MMP-8/TIMP-1 and MMP-9/TIMP-1 ratios were markedly elevated in SJS and OCP tears (SJS > OCP) when compared to controls. Across all study groups, MMP-9 levels correlated strongly with MMP-8 and MPO levels and MMP-8 correlated with MPO but did not reach significance in SJS. There was no relationship between MMP-7 and MPO. Conclusions Since MMP-8 and MPO are produced by inflammatory cells, particularly neutrophils, the correlation data indicate that they may be the common source of elevated enzymes including MMP-9 in SJS and OCP tears. Elevated MMP/TIMP ratios and MMP activity suggest an imbalance in tear MMP regulation that may explain the predisposition of these patients to develop corneal melting and chronic complications associated with persistent inflammation. MPO in tears may be a sensitive and specific marker for the quantification of ocular inflammation. PMID:23962653

Phenylephrine-induced elevations in arterial blood pressure are attenuated in heat-stressed humans

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cui, Jian; Wilson, Thad E.; Crandall, Craig G.

2002-01-01

To test the hypothesis that phenylephrine-induced elevations in blood pressure are attenuated in heat-stressed humans, blood pressure was elevated via steady-state infusion of three doses of phenylephrine HCl in 10 healthy subjects in both normothermic and heat stress conditions. Whole body heating significantly increased sublingual temperature by 0.5 degrees C, muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA), heart rate, and cardiac output and decreased total peripheral vascular resistance (TPR; all P < 0.005) but did not change mean arterial blood pressure (MAP; P > 0.05). At the highest dose of phenylephrine, the increase in MAP and TPR from predrug baselines was significantly attenuated during the heat stress [DeltaMAP 8.4 +/- 1.2 mmHg; DeltaTPR 0.96 +/- 0.85 peripheral resistance units (PRU)] compared with normothermia (DeltaMAP 15.4 +/- 1.4 mmHg, DeltaTPR 7.13 +/- 1.18 PRU; all P < 0.001). The sensitivity of baroreflex control of MSNA and heart rate, expressed as the slope of the relationship between MSNA and diastolic blood pressure, as well as the slope of the relationship between heart rate and systolic blood pressure, respectively, was similar between thermal conditions (each P > 0.05). These data suggest that phenylephrine-induced elevations in MAP are attenuated in heat-stressed humans without affecting baroreflex control of MSNA or heart rate.

Seasonal variation in myocardial infarction is limited to patients with ST-elevations on admission.

PubMed

Leibowitz, David; Planer, David; Weiss, Teddy; Rott, David

2007-01-01

Previous studies have demonstrated seasonal variation in the incidence of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) with an increase in cases during the winter months. However, they did not assess whether ST-elevation MI (STEMI) and non-ST-elevation MI (NSTEMI) exhibit similar changes. The object of this study was to compare the seasonal variation of STEMI and NSTEMI. All patients who presented with AMI and underwent coronary angiography within seven days of admission were identified via the institutional database. STEMI diagnosis required admission ECG demonstrating ST elevation in at least two continguous leads. All AMIs not meeting criteria for STEMI were defined as NSTEMI. Patients were divided into monthly and seasonal groups based on the date of admission with MI. A total of 784 patients were included: 549 patients with STEMI and 235 with NSTEMI. When STEMI patients were analyzed by season, there were 170 patients (31%) in the winter months, a statistically significant difference of excess MI (p<0.005). When NSTEMI patients were analyzed, there were 62 patients (26%) in the winter with no statistically significant difference in the seasonal variation. Our findings suggest that the previously noted seasonal variation in the incidence of AMI is limited to patients presenting with STEMI, and that there are important physiological differences between STEMI and NSTEMI, the nature of which remains to be elucidated.

Efficacy of sequential use of fluoxetine for smoking cessation in elevated depressive symptom smokers.

PubMed

Brown, Richard A; Abrantes, Ana M; Strong, David R; Niaura, Raymond; Kahler, Christopher W; Miller, Ivan W; Price, Lawrence H

2014-02-01

Fluoxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, was examined in the treatment of smokers with elevated depressive symptoms. Specifically, this randomized, open-label clinical trial was designed to evaluate the efficacy of three logical, real-world alternatives for providing smoking cessation treatment to smokers with elevated depressive symptoms. In a sample of 216 smokers (mean Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale score = 11.41), participants were randomly assigned to (a) transdermal nicotine patch (TNP), beginning on quit date and continuing for 8 weeks thereafter; (b) standard administration of antidepressant pharmacotherapy with fluoxetine (20mg), beginning 2 weeks before quit date and continuing for 8 weeks following quit date + TNP (ST-FLUOX); or (c) sequential administration of fluoxetine (20mg), beginning 8 weeks before quit date and continuing for 8 weeks following quit date + TNP (SEQ-FLUOX). All participants received 5 sessions of brief behavioral smoking cessation treatment. Findings indicate that SEQ-FLUOX resulted in significantly higher point prevalence abstinence than ST-FLUOX at 6-month follow-up (OR = 2.35; 95% CI = 1.10-5.02, p < .03), a difference that was reduced at the 12-month assessment. Furthermore, sequential fluoxetine treatment, compared with standard fluoxetine treatment, resulted in significantly lower levels of depressive symptoms throughout smoking cessation treatment (p < .025) and significantly lower nicotine withdrawal-related negative affect (p < .004) immediately after quitting. Findings suggest that if one is going to prescribe fluoxetine for smoking cessation in smokers with elevated depressive symptoms, it is best to begin prescribing fluoxetine well before the target quit date.

BMI or BIA: Is Body Mass Index or Body Fat Mass a Better Predictor of Cardiovascular Risk in Overweight or Obese Children and Adolescents? A German/Austrian/Swiss Multicenter APV Analysis of 3,327 Children and Adolescents.

PubMed

Bohn, Barbara; Müller, Manfred James; Simic-Schleicher, Gunter; Kiess, Wieland; Siegfried, Wolfgang; Oelert, Monika; Tuschy, Sabine; Berghem, Stefan; Holl, Reinhard W

2015-01-01

Body fat (BF) percentiles for German children and adolescents have recently been published. This study aims to evaluate the association between bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA)-derived BF and cardiovascular risk factors and to investigate whether BF is better suited than BMI in children and adolescents. Data of 3,327 children and adolescents (BMI > 90th percentile) were included. Spearman's correlation and receiver operating characteristics (ROCs) were applied determining the associations between BMI or BF and cardiovascular risk factors (hypertension, dyslipidemia, elevated liver enzymes, abnormal carbohydrate metabolism). Area under the curve (AUC) was calculated to predict cardiovascular risk factors. A significant association between both obesity indices and hypertension was present (all p < 0.0001), but the correlation with BMI was stronger (r = 0.22) compared to BF (r = 0.13). There were no differences between BMI and BF regarding their correlation with other cardiovascular risk factors. BF significantly predicted hypertension (AUC = 0.61), decreased HDL-cholesterol (AUC = 0.58), elevated LDL-cholesterol (AUC = 0.59), elevated liver enzymes (AUC = 0.61) (all p < 0.0001), and elevated triglycerides (AUC = 0.57, p < 0.05), but not abnormal carbohydrate metabolism (AUC = 0.54, p = 0.15). For the prediction of cardiovascular risk factors, no significant differences between BMI and BF were observed. BIA-derived BF was not superior to BMI to predict cardiovascular risk factors in overweight or obese children and adolescents.

Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha Stimulates Cytokine Expression and Transient Sensitization of Trigeminal Nociceptive Neurons

PubMed Central

Durham, Zachary L.; Hawkins, Jordan L.; Durham, Paul L.

2016-01-01

Objective Elevated levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) in the capsule of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) are implicated in the underlying pathology of temporomandibular disorders (TMD). TMD are a group of conditions that result in pain in the TMJ and/or muscles of mastication, and are associated with significant social and economic burdens. The goal of this study was to investigate the effect of elevated TNF-α levels in the TMJ capsule on nocifensive behavioral response to mechanical stimulation of trigeminal neurons and regulation of cytokines within the trigeminal ganglion. Design Male Sprague-Dawley rats were injected bilaterally in the TMJ capsule with TNF-α and changes in nocifensive head withdrawal responses to mechanical stimulation of cutaneous tissue directly over the capsule was determined using von Frey filaments. Cytokine levels in trigeminal ganglia were determined by protein array analysis at several time points post injection and correlated to nocifensive behavior. Results TNF-α caused a significant increase in the average number of nocifensive responses when compared to naive and vehicle treated animals 2 hours post injection, but levels returned to control levels at 24 hours. Based on array analysis, the levels of eight cytokines were significantly elevated above vehicle control levels at 2 hours following TNF-α injection, but all eight had returned to the vehicle control levels after 24 hours. Conclusions Our findings provide evidence that elevated levels of TNF-α in the joint capsule, which is reported to occur in TMD, promotes nociception in trigeminal ganglia neurons via a mechanism that temporally correlates with differential regulation of several cytokines. PMID:27836101

Circulating asymmetric dimethylarginine and the risk of preeclampsia: a meta-analysis based on 1338 participants.

PubMed

Yuan, Jing; Wang, Xinguo; Xie, Yudou; Wang, Yuzhi; Dong, Lei; Li, Hong; Zhu, Tongyu

2017-07-04

Patients with preeclampsia have higher circulating asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA). However, whether circulating ADMA is elevated before the diagnosis of preeclampsia has not been determined. A meta-analysis of observational studies that reported circulating ADMA level before the onset of preeclampsia was performed. Pubmed and Embase were searched. Standardized mean differences (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were used to estimate the differences in circulating ADMA. A random effect model or a fixed effect model was applied depending on the heterogeneity. The predictive efficacy of circulating ADMA for the incidence of preeclampsia was also explored. Eleven comparisons with 1338 pregnant women were included. The pooled results showed that the circulating ADMA was significantly higher in women who subsequently developed preeclampsia as compared with those did not (SMD: 0.71, p < 0.001) with a moderate heterogeneity (I2 = 43%). Stratified analyses suggested elevation of circulating ADMA is more remarkable in studies with GA of ADMA sampling ≥ 20 weeks (SMD: 0.89, p < 0.01) as compared those with GA of ADMA sampling < 20 weeks (SMD: 0.56, p < 0.01; p for subgroup interaction = 0.03). Differences of maternal age, study design, and ADMA measurement methods did not significantly affect the results. Only two studies evaluated the potential predicting ability of circulating ADMA for subsequent preeclampsia, and retrieved moderate predictive efficacy. Circulating ADMA is elevated before the development of preeclampsia. Studies are needed to evaluate the predictive efficacy of ADMA for the incidence of preeclampsia.

Coadministration of alloxan and nicotinamide in rats produces biochemical changes in blood and pathological alterations comparable to the changes in type II diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Vattam, K K; Raghavendran, Hrb; Murali, M R; Savatey, H; Kamarul, T

2016-08-01

In the present study, thirty six male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into six groups and were injected with varying doses of alloxan (Ax) and nicotinamide (NA). The serum levels of glucose, insulin, and adiponectin were measured weekly up to 4 weeks. Elevated levels of glucose were observed in all groups on days 7, 14, 21, and 28, except in groups a and f (control). The serum insulin levels were significantly elevated in groups b and c on day 7, when compared with that in group f, whereas a decrease in the serum insulin levels was observed in groups d and e on days 21 and 28. The adiponectin levels showed inconsistencies on days 7 and 14. However, significant decrease in the adiponectin levels was observed on days 21 and 28. Histological section of the pancreas showed mild (group a), moderate (group b) to severe (groups c, d, and e) degenerative changes. Concomitant fatty changes in the liver and inflammatory infiltration of the kidney were markedly observed in all the treated groups, when compared to control. These results suggested that the use of selective combination of Ax120 + NA50 injection demonstrated type II diabetes mellitus in rats. © The Author(s) 2015.

Do children with gender dysphoria have intense/obsessional interests?

PubMed

VanderLaan, Doug P; Postema, Lori; Wood, Hayley; Singh, Devita; Fantus, Sophia; Hyun, Jessica; Leef, Jonathan; Bradley, Susan J; Zucker, Kenneth J

2015-01-01

This study examined whether children clinically referred for gender dysphoria (GD) show increased symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Circumscribed preoccupations or intense interests were considered as overlapping symptoms expressed in GD and ASD. In gender-referred children (n = 534; 82.2% male) and their siblings (n = 419; 57.5% male), we examined Items 9 and 66 on the Child Behavior Checklist, which measure obsessions and compulsions, respectively. Non-GD clinic-referred (n = 1,201; 48.5% male) and nonreferred (n = 1,201; 48.5% male) children were also examined. Gender-referred children were elevated compared to all other groups for Item 9, and compared to siblings and nonreferred children for Item 66. A gender-related theme was significantly more common for gender-referred boys than male siblings on Item 9 only. A gender-related theme was not significantly more common for gender-referred girls compared to their female siblings on either item. The findings for Item 9 support the idea that children with GD show an elevation in obsessional interests. For gender-referred boys in particular, gender-related themes constituted more than half of the examples provided by their mothers. Intense/obsessional interests in children with GD may be one of the factors underlying the purported link between GD and ASD.

The association between dietary lifestyles and hepatocellular injury in Japanese workers.

PubMed

Iwata, Toyoto; Arai, Kaori; Saito, Norimitsu; Murata, Katsuyuki

2013-12-01

Elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT) in serum, relevant to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, has been often reported from Asian countries and the U.S., and it may be associated with lifestyle behavior. To clarify whether specific dietary behavior is associated with hepatocellular injury, we explored liver markers and dietary lifestyles (e.g., breakfast-skipping, eating for lunch, and snacking) in 1,809 male employees, aged 19-59 years, belonging to a health insurance union of automobile dealerships in Japan. ALT, γ-glutamyltransferase, and asparate aminotransferase (AST) were positively correlated with age and body mass index (BMI) (P < 0.0001). Odds ratios (ORs) of instant noodle ingestion for lunch to ALT elevation (> 30 IU/L), after adjusting for possible confounders including age, BMI, and drinking, were 1.33 (95% confidence interval, 1.01-1.75) at 1-2 times/week and 1.47 (1.07-2.01) at ≥ 3 times/week, compared to those who seldom ate instant noodles. Likewise, the OR of the ingestion at ≥ 3 times/week to γ-glutamyltransferase elevation (> 50 IU/L) was 1.42 (1.02-1.99), but the OR to elevated AST (> 30 IU/L) was not statistically significant. Habitual ethanol intake was significantly associated with hepatocellular injury, though the threshold of daily ethanol intake differed among liver markers. Despite the low OR, habitual instant noodle ingestion for lunch is associated with ALT elevation. Since the average content of saturated fatty acids in instant noodles is considerably high among cereal foods in Japan, workers with this habit should be advised to avoid having unbalanced diets.

Evaluation of an inflammation-based prognostic score (GPS) in patients undergoing resection for colon and rectal cancer.

PubMed

McMillan, Donald C; Crozier, Joseph E M; Canna, Khalid; Angerson, Wilson J; McArdle, Colin S

2007-08-01

The aim of the study was to examine the value of the combination of an elevated C-reactive protein and hypoalbuminaemia (GPS) in predicting cancer-specific survival after resection for colon and rectal cancer. The GPS was constructed as follows: Patients with both an elevated C-reactive protein (>10 mg/l) and hypoalbuminaemia (<35 g/l) were allocated a score of 2. Patients in whom only one or none of these biochemical abnormalities was present were allocated a score of 1 or 0, respectively. A GPS of 1 (n = 109) was mainly due to an elevated C-reactive protein concentration and the remainder due to hypoalbuminaemia. In those patients with a GPS of 1 due to hypoalbuminaemia (n = 16), the 3-year overall survival rate was 94% compared with 62% in those patients with a GPS of 1 due to an elevated C-reactive protein concentration (n = 93, p = 0.0094). Therefore, the GPS was modified such that patients with hypoalbuminaemia were assigned a score of 0 in the absence of an elevated C-reactive protein. On univariate analysis of those patients with colon and rectal cancer, the modified GPS (p < 0.0001) was significantly associated with overall and cancer specific survival. On univariate survival analysis of those patients with Dukes B colon and rectal cancer, the modified GPS (p < 0.01) was significantly associated with overall and cancer specific survival. The results of the present study indicate that the GPS, before surgery, predicts overall and cancer-specific survival after resection of colon and rectal cancer.

Elevation of Serum Acid Sphingomyelinase Activity in Acute Kawasaki Disease.

PubMed

Konno, Yuuki; Takahashi, Ikuko; Narita, Ayuko; Takeda, Osamu; Koizumi, Hiromi; Tamura, Masamichi; Kikuchi, Wataru; Komatsu, Akira; Tamura, Hiroaki; Tsuchida, Satoko; Noguchi, Atsuko; Takahashi, Tsutomu

2015-10-01

Kawasaki disease (KD) is an acute systemic vasculitis that affects both small and medium-sized vessels including the coronary arteries in infants and children. Acid sphingomyelinase (ASM) is a lysosomal glycoprotein that hydrolyzes sphingomyelin to ceramide, a lipid, that functions as a second messenger in the regulation of cell functions. ASM activation has been implicated in numerous cellular stress responses and is associated with cellular ASM secretion, either through alternative trafficking of the ASM precursor protein or by means of an unidentified mechanism. Elevation of serum ASM activity has been described in several human diseases, suggesting that patients with diseases involving vascular endothelial cells may exhibit a preferential elevation of serum ASM activity. As acute KD is characterized by systemic vasculitis that could affect vascular endothelial cells, the elevation of serum ASM activity should be considered in these patients. In the present study, serum ASM activity in the sera of 15 patients with acute KD was determined both before and after treatment with infusion of high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), a first-line treatment for acute KD. Serum ASM activity before IVIG was significantly elevated in KD patients when compared to the control group (3.85 ± 1.46 nmol/0.1 ml/6 h vs. 1.15 ± 0.10 nmol/0.1 ml/6 h, p < 0.001), suggesting that ASM activation may be involved in the pathophysiology of this condition. Serum ASM activity before IVIG was significantly correlated with levels of C-reactive protein (p < 0.05). These results suggest the involvement of sphingolipid metabolism in the pathophysiology of KD.

Comparative observational study on the clinical presentation, intracranial volume measurements, and intracranial pressure scores in patients with either Chiari malformation Type I or idiopathic intracranial hypertension.

PubMed

Frič, Radek; Eide, Per Kristian

2017-04-01

OBJECTIVE Several lines of evidence suggest common pathophysiological mechanisms in Chiari malformation Type I (CMI) and idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH). It has been hypothesized that tonsillar ectopy, a typical finding in CMI, is the result of elevated intracranial pressure (ICP) combined with a developmentally small posterior cranial fossa (PCF). To explore this hypothesis, the authors specifically investigated whether ICP is comparable in CMI and IIH and whether intracranial volumes (ICVs) are different in patients with CMI and IIH, which could explain the tonsillar ectopy in CMI. The authors also examined whether the symptom profile is comparable in these 2 patient groups. METHODS The authors identified all CMI and IIH patients who had undergone overnight diagnostic ICP monitoring during the period from 2002 to 2014 and reviewed their clinical records and radiological examinations. Ventricular CSF volume (VV), PCF volume (PCFV), and total ICV were calculated from initial MRI studies by using volumetric software. The static and pulsatile ICP scores during overnight monitoring were analyzed. Furthermore, the authors included a reference (REF) group consisting of patients who had undergone ICP monitoring due to suspected idiopathic normal-pressure hydrocephalus or chronic daily headache and showed normal pressure values. RESULTS Sixty-six patients with CMI and 41 with IIH were identified, with comparable demographics noted in both groups. The occurrence of some symptoms (headache, nausea, and/or vomiting) was comparable between the cohorts. Dizziness and gait ataxia were significantly more common in patients with CMI, whereas visual symptoms, diplopia, and tinnitus were significantly more frequent in patients with IIH. The cranial volume measurements (VV, PCFV, and ICV) of the CMI and IIH patients were similar. Notably, 7.3% of the IIH patients had tonsillar descent qualifying for diagnosis of CMI (that is, > 5 mm). The extent of tonsillar ectopy was significantly different between the CMI and IIH cohorts (p < 0.001) but also between these 2 cohorts and the REF group. Pulsatile ICP was elevated in both cohorts without any significant between-group differences; however, static ICP was significantly higher (p < 0.001) in the IIH group. CONCLUSIONS This study showed comparable and elevated pulsatile ICP, indicative of impaired intracranial compliance, in both CMI and IIH cohorts, while static ICP was higher in the IIH cohort. The data did not support the hypothesis that reduced PCFV combined with increased ICP causes tonsillar ectopy in CMI. Even though impaired intracranial compliance seems to be a common pathophysiological mechanism behind both conditions, the mechanisms explaining the different clinical and radiological presentations of CMI and IIH remain undefined.

Elevated levels of IL-2 and IL-21 produced by CD4+ T cells in inflammatory bowel disease.

PubMed

Ebrahimpour, S; Shahbazi, M; Khalili, A; Tahoori, M T; Zavaran Hosseini, A; Amari, A; Aghili, B; Abediankenari, S; Mohammadizad, H; Mohammadnia-Afrouzi, M

2017-01-01

CD4+ T cells are considered as a subset of cells that play a pivotal role in the development of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The aim of this study was to assess the levels of interleukin (IL)-2, IL-21 and their receptors produced by CD4+ T cells in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. Thirty-two patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) and mean age of 37.93±10.37 years, as well as 22 patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) and mean age of 37.04±10.44 years, were studied. The healthy controls (HC) included 31 subjects with a mean age of 36.7±10.48 years. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated from all the participants. The CD4+ T cells were isolated and the expression of IL-2 and IL-21 and also their receptors were examined by flow cytometry. The level of IL-2+ cells was significantly increased in UC patients compared with HC (40.71±6.04 vs 37.24±6.54, respectively, p=0.04). The level of IL-21+ cells was also significantly elevated in CD patients compared with HC (4.44±1 vs 3.83±0.74, respectively, p=0.02). Furthermore, we found a significant positive correlation between clinical activity index (CAI) and IL-21+ cells. According to the results, we hypothesize that the elevated level of IL-2+ and IL-21+ T cells and a positive correlation between IL-21+ cells with CAI in UC patients may contribute to the pathogenesis of disease. Moreover, the assessment of cells producing such cytokines constitutes a potential diagnostic and therapeutic strategy for IBD.

Early Life Adversity Is Associated With Elevated Levels of Circulating Leptin, Irisin, and Decreased Levels of Adiponectin in Midlife Adults

PubMed Central

Joung, Kyoung Eun; Park, Kyung-Hee; Zaichenko, Lesya; Sahin-Efe, Ayse; Thakkar, Bindiya; Brinkoetter, Mary; Usher, Nicole; Warner, Dorothy; Davis, Cynthia R.; Crowell, Judith A.

2014-01-01

Context: Early-life adversity, defined as physical, emotional, or sexual abuse and neglect before 18 years of age, is associated with metabolic syndrome, obesity, and type 2 diabetes mellitus in adult life. However, the underlying mechanism is not fully understood, and whether adipomyokines are associated with early-life adversity independent of other factors such as body mass index, psychosocial risks, and health behaviors is not known. Objectives: The objective of the study was to evaluate the association between early-life adversity and circulating the levels of the adipomyokines such as leptin, adiponectin, and irisin and the inflammatory marker, C-reactive protein (CRP). Design/Subjects/Setting: This study was a cross-sectional study of 95 adults at a university-based research center. We collected venous blood from participants and analyzed serum for leptin, adiponectin, irisin, and CRP. Results: Circulating leptin, irisin, and CRP levels were significantly higher in the highest adversity tertile group compared with low and middle tertile groups (P < .001 for leptin, P = .01 for irisin, and P = .02 for CRP). Adiponectin levels were lower in the highest tertile group compared with the low and middle tertile groups (P = .03). After adjusting for demographic variables, physical activity, diet, current mental health, and body mass index, the associations between early-life adversity leptin, irisin, and did not change. However, adiponectin and CRP levels were no longer significantly related to early life adversity. Conclusion: Early-life adversity is directly associated with elevated circulating leptin and irisin, and indirectly associated with elevated CRP and decreased adiponectin. These findings suggest that these adipomyokines may play a role in the pathogenesis of metabolic abnormality in a population with significant early life adversity. PMID:24650014

Characterization of liver function parameter alterations after transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt creation and association with early mortality.

PubMed

Casadaban, Leigh C; Parvinian, Ahmad; Couture, Patrick M; Minocha, Jeet; Knuttinen, M Grace; Bui, James T; Gaba, Ron C

2014-12-01

The purpose of this article is to characterize the temporal evolution and clinical impact of laboratory liver function parameters after transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) creation. In this single-institution retrospective study, 157 patients (98 men and 59 women; median age, 55 years) underwent TIPS between 2000 and 2012 and had 1-month hepatobiliary laboratory follow-up. Medical record review was used to compare baseline, peak, and low bilirubin, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase, and international normalized ratio (INR) levels within 30 days after TIPS in surviving and dying patients to assess laboratory responses to shunt creation. TIPSs were created with a hemodynamic success rate of 98%, with median pressure gradient reduction of 13 mm Hg. Ninety-day mortality was 21%. Hepatobiliary laboratory values showed significant increases in the days after TIPS compared with baseline levels (bilirubin, 1.6 vs 3.5 mg/dL; AST, 49 vs 149 U/L; ALT, 26 vs 90 U/L; alkaline phosphatase, 97 vs 177 U/L; and INR, 1.5 vs 2.0; p<0.05 in all cases). Patients surviving to 90 days experienced statistically significant but transient laboratory value elevations-up to twofold over baseline-within days of TIPS, whereas patients dying within 90 days experienced three-to fourfold increases over a longer period that did not return to baseline. Differences in laboratory evolution were statistically significant in surviving versus dying patients. TIPS results in acute transient elevation of hepatobiliary enzymes, which may be more pronounced in patients with early mortality. An exaggerated laboratory elevation in excess of threefold greater than baseline or a prolonged increase exceeding 1 week may herald poorer clinical outcome.

KPS/LDH index: a simple tool for identifying patients with metastatic melanoma who are unlikely to benefit from palliative whole brain radiotherapy.

PubMed

Partl, Richard; Fastner, Gerd; Kaiser, Julia; Kronhuber, Elisabeth; Cetin-Strohmer, Klaudia; Steffal, Claudia; Böhmer-Breitfelder, Barbara; Mayer, Johannes; Avian, Alexander; Berghold, Andrea

2016-02-01

Low Karnofsky performance status (KPS) and elevated lactate dehydrogenases (LDHs) as a surrogate marker for tumor load and cell turnover may depict patients with a very short life expectancy. To validate this finding and compare it to other indices, namely, the recursive partitioning analysis (RPA) and diagnosis-specific graded prognostic assessment (DS-GPA), a multicenter analysis was undertaken. A retrospective analysis of 234 metastatic melanoma patients uniformly treated with palliative whole brain radiotherapy (WBRT) was done. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to determine the impact of patient-, tumor-, and treatment-related parameters on overall survival (OS). KPS and LDH emerged as independent factors predicting OS. By combining KPS and LDH values (KPS/LDH index), groups of patients with statistically significant differences in median OS (days; 95 % CI) after onset of WBRT were identified: group 1 (KPS ≥ 70/normal LDH) 234 (96-372), group 2 (KPS ≥ 70/elevated LDH) 112 (69-155), group 3 (KPS <70/normal LDH) 43 (12-74), and group 4 (KPS <70/elevated LDH) 29 (17-41). Between all four groups, statistically significant differences were observed. The RPA and DS-GPA indices failed to distinguish significantly between good and moderate prognosis and were inferior in predicting a very unfavorable prognosis. The parameters KPS and LDH independently impacted on OS. The combination of both (KPS/LDH index) identified patients with a very short life expectancy, who might be better served by recommending best supportive care instead of WBRT. The KPS/LDH index is simple and effective in terms of time and cost as compared to other prognostic indices.

Comparative evaluation of serum and salivary immunoglobulin G and A levels with total serum protein in oral submucous fibrosis patients: A case control study.

PubMed

Kandasamy, M; Jaisanghar, N; Austin, Ravi David; Srivastava, Kumar Chandan; Anusuya, G Sai; Anisa, N

2016-10-01

The objective of this study is to estimate and compare the serum and salivary immunoglobulin G and A (IgG, IgA) levels in various stages of oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) patients and relate it to total serum protein (TSP) and hemoglobin (Hb) levels. The sample for the present study comprised a total of 20 healthy controls, 20 OSMF patients. About 5 ml of blood and 2 ml of saliva were collected. Quantitative analysis of serum and salivary IgG, IgA was done by turbidometric immunoassay. TSP and Hb were estimated by Biuret and cyanmethemoglobin methods, respectively. Serum and salivary IgA and IgG levels were statistically significantly increased ( P < 0.001) in OSMF patients when compared to controls. Also serum and salivary IgG and IgA levels showed significantly increased ( P < 0.01) in all the three staging of OSMF when compared to control group. Hb levels and TSP levels were significantly decreased ( P < 0.001) in OSMF patients when compared to controls. One-way ANOVA, Pearson's correlation, and unpaired t -test were used for statistical analysis. The elevated levels of IgG and IgA are also in favor of polygammapathy, which are nonspecific and nondiagnostic objective reflections of an underlying disease. Decreased TSP is a result of host response and Hb, acts as an indicator of nutritional status plays an important role. It is also observed from the present study that the severity of OSMF was directly proportional to the estimated elevated levels of the major IgG and IgA. A need is also felt for the knowledge of immunoprofile estimation in etiology and pathogenesis that would prove a great asset in the proper assessment of this condition.

Alterations of Food-specific Serum IgG4 Titers to Common Food Antigens in Patients With Irritable Bowel Syndrome

PubMed Central

Lee, Hong Sub; Lee, Kwang Jae

2017-01-01

Background/Aims The role of dietary factors in the pathogenesis of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is still unclear. The aim of this study was to compare IgG4 levels to common food antigens between patients with IBS and healthy controls. Methods Thirty-two patients diagnosed as IBS according to the Rome III criteria (12 diarrhea subgroup; 20 non-diarrhea subgroup) and 32 sex and age-matched healthy controls participated in the study. Serum IgG4 titers to 90 common foods were measured in each subject. The number of subjects with positivity defined as the cut-off value ≥ 0.7 U/mL was compared. Results Patients with IBS had significantly higher IgG4 titers to wheat, leek and taro compared to those of controls. Serum IgG4 titers to ginger, cocoa, walnut, white radish, onion, and lettuce in IBS patients tended to be higher than controls. IgG4 titers to wheat, gluten and gliadin in the diarrhea subgroup, and lettuce, leek and taro in the non-diarrhea subgroup tended to be higher compared with controls. The number of subjects with positivity to apple, orange, lettuce, and leek was significantly higher in IBS patients than controls. The number of subjects with positivity to apple, orange, gluten, and gliadin in the diarrhea subgroup, and egg white, pineapple, soybean, lettuce, and leek in the non-diarrhea subgroup was significantly higher compared with controls. Conclusions Serum IgG4 antibody levels to some common foods are abnormally elevated in IBS patients. The type of foods with abnormally elevated serum IgG4 titers in the diarrhea subgroup may be different from that in the non-diarrhea subgroup. PMID:28992678

β-Cell lipotoxicity in response to free fatty acid elevation in prepubertal youth: African American versus Caucasian contrast.

PubMed

Michaliszyn, Sara F; Bonadonna, Riccardo C; Sjaarda, Lindsey A; Lee, Sojung; Farchoukh, Lama; Arslanian, Silva A

2013-08-01

Prepubertal African American (AA) youth compared with their Caucasian (C) peers have higher insulin secretion, which correlates positively with free fatty acid (FFA) concentration. In our continued efforts to explain the racial disparity in insulinemia, and because FFAs modulate insulin secretion, we hypothesized that AA youth would have a greater response to FFA-induced β-cell insulin secretion than C youth. We compared the short-term effects of FFA elevation on fasting and glucose-stimulated C-peptide-modeled insulin secretion in prepubertal normal-weight AA versus C peers during a 2-h hyperglycemic clamp (12.5 mmol/L) on two occasions: 1) infusion of normal saline and 2) infusion of 20% intralipid (IL). During IL infusion, insulin sensitivity (IS) declined comparably in AA and C youth. Glucose sensitivity of first- and second-phase insulin secretion showed a significant condition × race interaction being higher in AA youth. Disposition index, β-cell function relative to IS, declined with IL infusion in AA and C youth, with a significantly greater decrease in Cs compared with AAs. In conclusion, AA and C prepubertal youth both demonstrated a decline in β-cell function relative to IS during IL infusion, indicative of acute lipotoxicity. The greater decline in C youth compared with AAs may suggest that C youth are more susceptible to β-cell lipotoxicity than AA youth, or alternatively, that AA youth are hypersensitive to FFA stimulation of β-cell insulin secretion, consistent with our theory.

Elevated Maternal C-Reactive Protein and Autism in a National Birth Cohort

PubMed Central

Brown, Alan S.; Sourander, Andre; Hinkka-Yli-Salomäki, Susanna; McKeague, Ian W.; Sundvall, Jouko; Surcel, Helja-Marja

2012-01-01

Autism is a complex neuropsychiatric syndrome with a largely unknown etiology. Inflammation during pregnancy may represent a common pathway by which infections and other insults increase risk for the disorder. Hence, we investigated the association between early gestational C-reactive protein (CRP), an established inflammatory biomarker, prospectively assayed in maternal sera, and childhood autism in a large national birth cohort with an extensive serum biobank. Other strengths of the cohort included nearly complete ascertainment of pregnancies in Finland (N=1.2 million) over the study period and national psychiatric registries consisting of virtually all treated autism cases in the population. Increasing maternal CRP levels, classified as a continuous variable, were significantly associated with autism in offspring. For maternal CRP levels in the highest quintile, compared to the lowest quintile, there was a significant, 43% elevated risk. This finding suggests that maternal inflammation may play a significant role in autism, with possible implications for identifying preventive strategies and pathogenic mechanisms in autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders. PMID:23337946

Maternal corticosterone exposure has transgenerational effects on grand-offspring.

PubMed

Khan, Nicola; Peters, Richard A; Richardson, Emily; Robert, Kylie A

2016-11-01

The hormone fluctuations that an animal experiences during ovulation can have lifelong effects on developing offspring. These hormones may act as an adaptive mechanism, allowing offspring to be 'pre-programmed' to survive in an unstable environment. Here, we used a transgenerational approach to examine the effects of elevated maternal corticosterone (CORT) on the future reproductive success of female offspring. We show that female zebra finches (Taeniopygia guttata) exposed to embryonic CORT produce daughters that have equal reproductive success (clutch sizes, fertility, hatching success) compared with the daughters produced from untreated mothers, but their offspring had accelerated post-hatching growth rates and were significantly heavier by nutritional independence. Although there was no significant effect on primary offspring sex ratio, females from CORT-treated mothers produced significantly female-biased clutches by nutritional independence. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first record of a transgenerational sex ratio bias in response to elevated maternal CORT in any avian species. © 2016 The Author(s).

Lumbar Spine Musculoskeletal Physiology and Biomechanics During Simulated Military Operations

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-06-01

was found at L5-S1. A caudal increase in fat fraction of the multifidus was observed, with no significant increase in the erector spine. No...proportional to Pfirrmann grade. No significant differences were found between volume, fat fraction, T2, or DTI in any of the muscles in subjects with disc...Figure 8: Fat fraction of the erector spinae and multifidus muscles at each vertebral level. The erector spinae has elevated fat fraction compared to

Clinical phenotypes and the biological parameters of Congolese patients suffering from sickle cell anemia: A first report from Central Africa.

PubMed

Mikobi, Tite M; Lukusa Tshilobo, Prosper; Aloni, Michel N; Akilimali, Pierre Z; Mvumbi-Lelo, Georges; Mbuyi-Muamba, Jean Marie

2017-11-01

The influence of phenotype on the clinical course and laboratory features of sickle cell anemia (SCA) is rarely described in sub-Saharan Africa. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Kinshasa. A clinical phenotype score was built up. The following definitions were applied: asymptomatic clinical phenotype (ACP; score≤5), moderate clinical phenotype (MCP; score between 6 and 15), and severe clinical phenotype (SCP; score≥16). ANOVA test were used to compare differences among categorical variables. We have studied 140 patients. The mean body mass index (BMI) value of three groups was lower (<25 kg/m 2 ) than the limit defining overweight. BMI of the subjects with ACP was significantly higher than those of other phenotypes (P<.05). Sickle cell patients with ACP have a high mean steady-state hemoglobin concentration compared to those with MCP and SCP (P<.001). A significant elevated baseline leukocyte count is associated with SCP (P<.001). Fetal Hemoglobin (HbF) was significantly higher in ACP. Significant elevation of alpha 1 and alpha 2 globulins in SCP were observed. In our study, fetal hemoglobin has an influence on the clinical severity and the biological parameters of SCA. The study provides data concerning the sickle cell anemia clinical and biological variability in our midst. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Hepatoprotective effect of chrysin on prooxidant-antioxidant status during ethanol-induced toxicity in female albino rats.

PubMed

Sathiavelu, Jayanthi; Senapathy, Giftson Jebakkan; Devaraj, Rajkumar; Namasivayam, Nalini

2009-06-01

To evaluate the effect of chrysin, a natural, biologically active compound extracted from many plants, honey and propolis, on the tissue and circulatory antioxidant status, and lipid peroxidation in ethanol-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Rats were divided into four groups. Groups 1 and 2 received isocaloric glucose. Groups 3 and 4 received 20% ethanol, equivalent to 5 g/kg bodyweight every day. Groups 2 and 4 received chrysin (20 mg/kg bodyweight) dissolved in 0.5% dimethylsulfoxide. The results showed significantly elevated levels of tissue and circulatory thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, conjugated dienes and lipid hydroperoxides, and significantly lowered enzymic and non-enzymic antioxidant activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione-related enzymes such as glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, glutathione-S-transferase, reduced glutathione, vitamin C and vitamin E in ethanol-treated rats compared with the control. Chrysin administration to rats with ethanol-induced liver injury significantly decreased the levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, lipid hydroperoxides and conjugated dienes, and significantly elevated the activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, glutathione-S-transferase and the levels of reduced glutathione, vitamin C and vitamin E in the tissues and circulation compared with those of the unsupplemented ethanol-treated rats. The histological changes observed in the liver and kidney correlated with the biochemical findings. Chrysin offers protection against free radical-mediated oxidative stress in rats with ethanol-induced liver injury.

Red cell 2, 3-diphosphoglycerate levels among diabetic patents with and without vascular complications.

PubMed

Kanter, Y; Bessman, S P; Bessman, A

1975-08-01

There have been differences of opinion among authors concening in the levels of red cell 2,3-diphosphoglycerate (2,3-DPG) and nucleotides in nonacidotic diabetic patients. Our data suggest that abnormal levels of 2, 3-DPG in diabetic patients are related to the presence of vascular complications and not to the duration of the disease per sec. 2,3-DPG levels are normal in diabetic patients with no evidence of vascular complications (group A). In ambulatory patients with vascular complications (group B), significantly higher levels of 2,3-DPG are found than in normal subjects and patients in group A. In hospitalized diabetic patients with active peripheral vascular complications (group C), levels of 2,3-DPG are likewise significantly increased over those of normal subjects and patients of group A. 2,3-DPG was found to be significantly elevated in patients of group C as compared with group B. 2,3-DPG levels in venous blood from infected legs as compared with those of the peripheral venous blood were not significantly different, thereby ruling out local factors. There were no differences in the blood lactate levels in any of the group studied. The elevation of the 2,3-DPG levels may be a reflection of attempted red blood cell compensation for tissue hypoxia in the diabetic with vascular disease.

Plant and microbial responses to nitrogen and phosphorus addition across an elevational gradient in subarctic tundra.

PubMed

Sundqvist, Maja K; Liu, Zhanfeng; Giesler, Reiner; Wardle, David A

2014-07-01

Temperature and nutrients are major limiting factors in subarctic tundra. Experimental manipulation of nutrient availability along elevational gradients (and thus temperature) can improve our understanding of ecological responses to climate change. However, no study to date has explored impacts of nutrient addition along a tundra elevational gradient, or across contrasting vegetation types along any elevational gradient. We set up a full factorial nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) fertilization experiment in each of two vegetation types (heath and meadow) at 500 m, 800 m, and 1000 m elevation in northern Swedish tundra. We predicted that plant and microbial communities in heath or at lower elevations would be more responsive to N addition while communities in meadow or at higher elevations would be more responsive to P addition, and that fertilizer effects would vary more with elevation for the heath than for the meadow. Although our results provided little support for these predictions, the relationship between nutrient limitation and elevation differed between vegetation types. Most plant and microbial properties were responsive to N and/or P fertilization, but responses often varied with elevation and/or vegetation type. For instance, vegetation density significantly increased with N + P fertilization relative to the other fertilizer treatments, and this increase was greatest at the lowest elevation for the heath but at the highest elevation for the meadow. Arbuscular mycorrhizae decreased with P fertilization at 500 m for the meadow, but with all fertilizer treatments in both vegetation types at 800 m. Fungal to bacterial ratios were enhanced by N+ P fertilization for the two highest elevations in the meadow only. Additionally, microbial responses to fertilization were primarily direct rather than indirect via plant responses, pointing to a decoupled response of plant and microbial communities to nutrient addition and elevation. Because our study shows how two community types differ in their responses to fertilization and elevation, and because the temperature range across this gradient is approximately 3 degrees C, our study is informative about how nutrient limitation in tundra may be influenced by temperature shifts that are comparable to those expected under climate change during this century.

Differential effects of total and partial sleep deprivation on salivary factors in Wistar rats.

PubMed

Lasisi, Dr T J; Shittu, S T; Meludu, C C; Salami, A A

2017-01-01

Aim of this study was to investigate the effects of sleep deprivation on salivary factors in rats. Animals were randomly assigned into three groups of 6 animals each as control, total sleep deprivation (TSD) and partial sleep deprivation (PSD) groups. The multiple platform method was used to induce partial and total sleep deprivation for 7days. On the 8th day, stimulated saliva samples were collected for the analysis of salivary lag time, flow rate, salivary amylase activity, immunoglobulin A secretion rate and corticosterone levels using ELISA and standard kinetic enzyme assay. Data were analyzed using ANOVA with Dunnett T3 post hoc tests. Salivary flow rate reduced significantly in the TSD group compared with the PSD group as well as the control group (p=0.01). The secretion rate of salivary IgA was significantly reduced in the TSD group compared with the control group (p=0.04). Salivary amylase activity was significantly elevated in the TSD group compared with the PSD group as well as control group (p<0.001). However, there were no significant changes in the salivary lag time and levels of corticosterone among the groups. These findings suggest that total sleep deprivation is associated with reduced salivary flow rate and secretion rate of IgA as well as elevated levels of salivary amylase activity in rats. However, sleep recovery of four hours in the PSD group produced ameliorative effects on the impaired functions of salivary glands. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring in healthy children with parental hypertension.

PubMed

Alpay, Harika; Ozdemir, Nihal; Wühl, Elke; Topuzoğlu, Ahmet

2009-01-01

The aim of this study was to compare ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) parameters in offspring with at least one hypertensive parent (HP) to offspring with normotensive parents (NP) and to determine whether gender of parent or child might influence the association between parental hypertension and blood pressure (BP). Eighty-nine healthy children (mean age 11.1 +/- 3.9 years) with HP and 90 controls (mean age 10.5 +/- 3.1 years) with NP were recruited. Age, gender, and height did not differ between the two groups, whereas children of HP had higher weight, body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference compared with healthy controls. No difference was found in casual BP between the two groups. In contrast, during ABPM daytime and nighttime mean systolic and diastolic BP and mean arterial pressure (MAP) standard deviation scores (SDS) were significantly elevated in children with HP. The mean percentage of nocturnal BP decline (dipping) was not significantly different between the two groups. Children with hypertensive mothers had higher daytime systolic and MAP SDS than controls; no such difference was detected for children with hypertensive fathers. Daytime systolic and MAP SDS were significantly elevated in boys with HP compared with boys with NP but failed to be significant in girls. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that parental history of hypertension (B = 0.29) and BMI (B = 0.03) were independently correlated with increase of daytime MAP SDS. Early changes in ambulatory BP parameters were present in healthy children of HP. BP in HP offspring was influenced by the gender of the affected parent and the offspring.

Evaluation of reactive oxygen metabolites in patients with non-small cell lung cancer after chemotherapy

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background The aim of this study was to evaluate the level of reactive oxygen metabolites (ROMs) after chemotherapy in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and its association with response to treatment. Methods Fifty-eight untreated NSCLC patients and twenty-three healthy subjects were selected for the study. Patients received two courses of platinum-based chemotherapy and were evaluated for oxidative stress and treatment response. As a marker of reactive oxygen species, ROMs levels were measured using the d-ROMs test. Results ROMs level (mean ± standard deviation) before chemotherapy in NSCLC patients (416 ± 135 U.CARR) was significantly elevated (p = 0.016) compared to normal healthy subjects (320 ± 59 U.CARR). Patients who responded to chemotherapy showed significantly decreased (p = 0.014) ROMs levels after chemotherapy, whereas patients who had stable disease or progressive disease showed no change in ROMs level (p = 0.387). Conclusions NSCLC patients had significantly elevated ROMs levels before chemotherapy compared with normal healthy subjects. Chemotherapy may suppress ROMs production in responders but not in non-responders. ROMs level may be a predictor of clinical outcome in patients receiving chemotherapy for NSCLC. PMID:25180083

In vivo comparison of biomimetic approaches for tissue regeneration of the scarred vocal fold.

PubMed

Thibeault, Susan L; Klemuk, Sarah A; Smith, Marshall E; Leugers, Cecilia; Prestwich, Glenn

2009-07-01

The objective of this study was to determine if three different biomimetic approaches could facilitate tissue regeneration and improve viscoelastic properties in the scarred vocal fold lamina propria extracellular matrix (ECM). Twenty rabbit vocal folds were biopsied bilaterally; 2 months postinjury rabbits were unilaterally treated with (i) autologous fibroblasts, (ii) a semisynthetic ECM (sECM), or (iii) autologous fibroblasts encapsulated in sECM. Saline was injected as a control into the contralateral fold. Animals were sacrificed 2 months after treatment. Outcomes measured were procollagen, collagen, and fibronectin levels in the lamina propria, and tissue viscosity and elasticity across three frequency decades. All treatment groups demonstrated accelerated proliferation of the ECM. Vocal fold lamina propria treated with autologous fibroblasts were found to have significantly improved viscosity (p = 0.0077) and elasticity (p = 0.0081) compared to saline. This treatment group had significantly elevated fibronectin levels. sECM and autologous fibroblasts/sECM groups had significantly elevated levels of procollagen, collagen, and fibronectin, indicating abundant matrix production as compared to saline with viscoelastic measures that did not differ statistically from controls. The use of autologous fibroblasts led to better restoration of the vocal fold lamina propria biomechanical properties. Optimization of cell-scaffold interactions and subsequent cell behavior is necessary for utilization of scaffold and scaffold-cell approaches.

The glycosaminoglycan content of the liver in bovine GM1 gangliosidosis.

PubMed

Johnson, A H; Donnelly, W J; Sheahan, B J

1977-03-01

Chemical analysis of the livers from four calves with GM1 gangliosidosis was negative for significantly elevated levels of glycosaminoglycans. The chemical findings confirmed morphological studies in which hepatic changes were minimal or absent. The findings were compared with the published evidence for the hepatic storage of glycosaminoglycans in human GM1 gangliosidosis.

Associations between gestational diabetes mellitus and elevated HbA1c early postpartum in a multi-ethnic population.

PubMed

Waage, Christin; Jenum, Anne Karen; Mdala, Ibrahimu; Berg, Jens Petter; Richardsen, Kåre; Birkeland, Kåre

2017-04-01

To investigate the prevalence of elevated HbA 1c 14 weeks postpartum in different ethnic groups and in women with and without gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in the index pregnancy and to explore demographic and biological factors from early pregnancy associated with elevated HbA 1c (HbA 1c ≥5.7% (≥39mmol/mol)) postpartum. From a cohort study in Oslo, Norway, we included 570 pregnant women, examined in gestational week 15, 28, and 14 weeks postpartum. The association between elevated HbA 1c and demographic and biological factors were assessed by logistic regression analyses. The prevalence of elevated HbA 1c postpartum was 23% in the total population, 15% among Western Europeans and 28% among women with ethnic minority background (p<0.01). In ethnic minorities elevated HbA 1c was found in 39% of women with recent GDM diagnosed by the World Health Organization 2013 criteria and in 21% of women without GDM (p<0.01), compared to 22% and 13% in Western Europeans (p=0.11). We found independent associations between elevated HbA 1c and ethnic minority background (OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.27, 3.18), and GDM (OR 2.04, 95% CI 1.35, 3.10) (p<0.01). The prevalence of elevated HbA 1c postpartum was 23%, and significantly higher among women with ethnic minority background irrespective of GDM. Copyright © 2016 Primary Care Diabetes Europe. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Ataques de nervios in relation to anxiety sensitivity among island Puerto Ricans.

PubMed

Cintrón, Jennifer A; Carter, Michele M; Sbrocco, Tracy

2005-12-01

This study investigated the symptom profile of ataques de nervios (ADN) among Puerto Rican volunteers from the community who self-identified as having experienced at least one ataque. As expected, the most commonly reported ataques-specific symptoms were crying, anger, nervousness, and becoming hysterical. Comparing the responses of those with ADN to those with no history of ADN but who reported elevated anxiety sensitivity (AS) indicated that both groups were comparable on measures of depression, state and trait anxiety, and associated panic symptoms. As expected, both groups scored significantly higher on all measures than did participants with no history of ADN and low AS with the exception of the measure of state anxiety. It is unclear, however, whether the overlap in symptom severity between those with ADN and those with elevated anxiety sensitivity indicates that ADN and AS are the same or distinct conditions.

Anxiety and depressive symptoms related to parenthood in a large Norwegian community sample: the HUNT2 study.

PubMed

Rimehaug, Tormod; Wallander, Jan

2010-07-01

The study compared anxiety and depression prevalence between parents and non-parents in a society with family- and parenthood-friendly social politics, controlling for family status and family history, age, gender, education and social class. All participants aged 30-49 (N = 24,040) in the large, non-sampled Norwegian HUNT2 community health study completed the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scales. The slightly elevated anxiety and depression among non-parents compared to parents in the complete sample was not confirmed as statistically significant within any subgroups. Married parents and (previously unmarried) cohabiting parents did not differ in portraying low anxiety and depression prevalence. Anxiety was associated with single parenthood, living alone or being divorced, while elevated depression was found only among those living alone. Burdening selection and cultural/political context are suggested as interpretative perspectives on the contextual and personal influences on the complex relationship between parenthood and mental health.

Impact of Homeland Security Alert level on calls to a law enforcement peer support hotline.

PubMed

Omer, Saad B; Barnett, Daniel J; Castellano, Cherie; Wierzba, Rachel K; Hiremath, Girish S; Balicer, Ran D; Everly, George S

2007-01-01

The Homeland Security Advisory System (HSAS) was established by the Department of Homeland Security to communicate the risk of a terrorist event. In order to explore the potential psychological impacts of HSAS we analyzed the effects of terror alerts on the law enforcement community. We used data from the New Jersey Cop 2 Cop crisis intervention hotline. Incidence Rate Ratios--interpreted as average relative increases in the daily number of calls to the Cop 2 Cop hotline during an increased alert period--were computed from Poisson models. The hotline received a total of 4,145 initial calls during the study period. The mean daily number of calls was higher during alert level elevation compared to prior 7 days (7.68 vs. 8.00). In the Poisson regression analysis, the Incidence Rate Ratios of number of calls received during elevated alert levels compared to the reference period of seven days preceding each change in alert were close to 1, with confidence intervals crossing 1 (i.e. not statistically significant) for all lag periods evaluated. This investigation, in the context of New Jersey law enforcement personnel, does not support the concern that elevating the alert status places undue stress upon alert recipients.

Analgesic, neuropharmacological, anti-diarrheal, and cytotoxic activities of the extract of Solanum sisymbriifolium (Lam.) leaves.

PubMed

Apu, Apurba Sarker; Bhuyan, Shakhawat Hossan; Matin, Maima; Hossain, Faruq; Khatun, Farjana; Taiab, Abu; Jamaluddin

2013-01-01

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the possible analgesic, neuropharmacological, anti-diarrheal, and cytotoxic activities of the ethanol extract of leaves of Solanum sisymbriifolium Lam. (Family: Solanaceae). The analgesic activity was measured by acetic acid-induced writhing inhibition test. The neuropharmacological activities were evaluated using hole cross, hole board, and elevated plus-maze test and the anti-diarrheal activity was assessed using castor oil-induced diarrhea inhibition method. Brine shrimp lethality bioassay was carried out for assessing the cytotoxicity of the ethanol extract of the leaves. Except cytotoxic activity, all the tests were conducted on mice. The extract at oral doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight showed highly significant (p<0.001) decrease in number of writhing, 52.1±0.66 and 4.4±0.64 compared with the control (78.6±0.29) with the percentage of inhibitions of writhing response were found to be 33.72% and 94.40%, respectively. Compare with the control, the extract at both doses showed significant sedative effect in hole cross test. In hole board test, the extract exhibited highly significant (p<0.001) anxiolytic activity at dose of (200 mg/kg), while the same activity was observed at dose of 400 mg/kg in elevated plus-maze test. The extract showed highly significant (p<0.001) anti-diarrheal activity in a dose-dependent manner. With the extract, significant lethality to brine shrimp was found with LC50 value of 61.66±0.9 μg/ml, which was comparable with the positive control (LC50: 11.89±0.8 µg/ml). The results from the present studies support the traditional uses of this plant part and could form the basis of further investigation including compound isolation.

Significant differences in B-cell subpopulations characterize patients with chronic graft-versus-host disease-associated dysgammaglobulinemia.

PubMed

Kuzmina, Zoya; Greinix, Hildegard T; Weigl, Roman; Körmöczi, Ulrike; Rottal, Arno; Frantal, Sophie; Eder, Sandra; Pickl, Winfried F

2011-02-17

Manifestations of chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) can resemble those seen in immunodeficiency states and autoimmune disorders. Reports by us and others suggest an involvement of B cells in the pathogenesis of cGVHD. We investigated B-lymphocyte subpopulations in cGVHD cohorts defined by serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels to characterize novel biomarkers for impairment of humoral immunity after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Seventy-six patients were enrolled a median of 46 months after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. The hypogammaglobulinemia group had significantly diminished CD19(+) B cells (165 vs 454 vs 417 × 10⁶L) with elevated CD19(+)CD21(low) immature (16.5%, 7.7%, and 9.1%) and CD19(+)CD21(int-high)CD38(high)IgM(high) transitional (10.5% vs 4.2% vs 6.3%) B-cell proportions compared with the normogammaglobulinemia and hypergammaglobulinemia groups. CD19(+)CD10(-)CD27(-)CD21(high) naive B cells were highly elevated in all patients with cGVHD. CD19(+)CD27(+)IgD(+) non-class-switched (4 vs 12 vs 11 × 10⁶/L) and class-switched (7 vs 35 vs 42 × 10⁶/L) memory B cells were significantly lower in the hypogammaglobulinemia group compared with the others. Besides significantly higher B-cell activation factor/B-cell ratios, significantly more cGVHD patients with hypergammaglobulinemia had autoantibodies compared with the hypogammaglobulinemia subgroup (68% vs 24%, P = .024). In conclusion, B-cell subpopulations can serve as novel cellular biomarkers for immunodeficiency and autoimmunity indicating different pathogenetic mechanisms of cGVHD and encouraging future prospective longitudinal studies.

Physiological Responses to Salinity Vary with Proximity to the Ocean in a Coastal Amphibian.

PubMed

Hopkins, Gareth R; Brodie, Edmund D; Neuman-Lee, Lorin A; Mohammadi, Shabnam; Brusch, George A; Hopkins, Zoë M; French, Susannah S

2016-01-01

Freshwater organisms are increasingly exposed to elevated salinity in their habitats, presenting physiological challenges to homeostasis. Amphibians are particularly vulnerable to osmotic stress and yet are often subject to high salinity in a variety of inland and coastal environments around the world. Here, we examine the physiological responses to elevated salinity of rough-skinned newts (Taricha granulosa) inhabiting a coastal stream on the Pacific coast of North America and compare the physiological responses to salinity stress of newts living in close proximity to the ocean with those of newts living farther upstream. Although elevated salinity significantly affected the osmotic (body weight, plasma osmolality), stress (corticosterone), and immune (bactericidal ability) responses of newts, animals found closer to the ocean were generally less reactive to salt stress than those found farther upstream. Our results provide possible evidence for some physiological tolerance in this species to elevated salinity in coastal environments. As freshwater environments become increasingly saline and more stressful, understanding the physiological tolerances of vulnerable groups such as amphibians will become increasingly important to our understanding of their abilities to respond, to adapt, and, ultimately, to survive.

Urinary p-cresol is elevated in young French children with autism spectrum disorder: a replication study.

PubMed

Gabriele, Stefano; Sacco, Roberto; Cerullo, Sonia; Neri, Cristina; Urbani, Andrea; Tripi, Gabriele; Malvy, Joëlle; Barthelemy, Catherine; Bonnet-Brihault, Frédérique; Persico, Antonio M

2014-09-01

The aromatic compound p-cresol (4-methylphenol) has been found elevated in the urines of Italian autistic children up to 8 years of age. The present study aims at replicating these initial findings in an ethnically distinct sample and at extending them by measuring also the three components of urinary p-cresol, namely p-cresylsulfate, p-cresylglucuronate and free p-cresol. Total urinary p-cresol, p-cresylsulfate and p-cresylglucuronate were significantly elevated in 33 French autism spectrum disorder (ASD) cases compared with 33 sex- and age-matched controls (p < 0.05). This increase was limited to ASD children aged ≤8 years (p < 0.01), and not older (p = 0.17). Urinary levels of p-cresol and p-cresylsulfate were associated with stereotypic, compulsive/repetitive behaviors (p < 0.05), although not with overall autism severity. These results confirm the elevation of urinary p-cresol in a sizable set of small autistic children and spur interest into biomarker roles for p-cresol and p-cresylsulfate in autism.

The effect of altitude on breaking seed dormancy and stimulation of seed germination of Persian hogweed (Heracleum persicum).

PubMed

Salehani, M Khajavi; Mahmoudi, J; Mahdavi, S Kh; Habibzadeh, R

2013-01-01

Persian hogweed is a perennial herb and aromatic plant which has pharmaceutical and fodder values, and the main propagation method of this species is seed. The goal of this study was to investigate the effect of altitude on breaking dormancy and stimulate seed germination of this species. The study was designed and carried out using the test of seed analysis. For our purpose, seeds were collected from three different altitudes (1700, 2200, 2700 masl) in Kojoor area. After initial purification, germination percent (GP) and speed (GS) of each elevation were determined by cold stratification compared to control. According to results, control seeds did not germinate, showing that the seeds of this species need to be treated. Statistical analysis of results showed that there are significant differences between GP and GS of each elevation, as seeds of higher elevation had slower and less germination in longer periods. So, changes in elevation are an effective factor on seed germination characteristics of this species and this factor has to be considered in seed preparation and restoration with this species.

Micro-RNA-122 levels in acute liver failure and chronic hepatitis C.

PubMed

Dubin, Perry H; Yuan, Hejun; Devine, Robert K; Hynan, Linda S; Jain, Mamta K; Lee, William M

2014-09-01

MicroRNA-122 (miR-122) is the foremost liver-related micro-RNA, but its role in the hepatocyte is not fully understood. To evaluate whether circulating levels of miR-122 are elevated in chronic-HCV for a reason other than hepatic injury, we compared serum level in patients with chronic hepatitis C to other forms of liver injury including patients with acute liver failure and healthy controls. MiR-122 was quantitated using sera from 35 acute liver failure patients (20 acetaminophen-induced, 15 other etiologies), 39 chronic-HCV patients and 12 controls. In parallel, human genomic DNA (hgDNA) levels were measured to reflect quantitatively the extent of hepatic necrosis. Additionally, six HIV-HCV co-infected patients, who achieved viral clearance after undergoing therapy with interferon and ribavirin, had serial sera miR-122 and hgDNA levels measured before and throughout treatment. Serum miR-122 levels were elevated approximately 100-fold in both acute liver failure and chronic-HCV sera as compared to controls (P < 0.001), whereas hgDNA levels were only elevated in acute liver failure patients as compared to both chronic-HCV and controls (P < 0.001). Subgroup analysis showed that chronic-HCV sera with normal aminotransferase levels showed elevated miR-122 despite low levels of hepatocyte necrosis. All successfully treated HCV patients showed a significant Log10 decrease in miR-122 levels ranging from 0.16 to 1.46, after sustained viral response. Chronic-HCV patients have very elevated serum miR-122 levels in the range of most patients with severe hepatic injury leading to acute liver failure. Eradication of HCV was associated with decreased miR-122 but not hgDNA. An additional mechanism besides hepatic injury may be active in chronic-HCV to explain the exaggerated circulating levels of miR-122 observed. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Effects of coffee management on deforestation rates and forest integrity.

PubMed

Hylander, Kristoffer; Nemomissa, Sileshi; Delrue, Josefien; Enkosa, Woldeyohannes

2013-10-01

Knowledge about how forest margins are utilized can be crucial for a general understanding of changes in forest cover, forest structure, and biodiversity across landscapes. We studied forest-agriculture transitions in southwestern Ethiopia and hypothesized that the presence of coffee (Coffea arabica)decreases deforestation rates because of coffee's importance to local economies and its widespread occurrence in forests and forest margins. Using satellite images and elevation data, we compared changes in forest cover over 37 years (1973-2010) across elevations in 2 forest-agriculture mosaic landscapes (1100 km(2) around Bonga and 3000 km(2) in Goma-Gera). In the field in the Bonga area, we determined coffee cover and forest structure in 40 forest margins that differed in time since deforestation. Both the absolute and relative deforestation rates were lower at coffee-growing elevations compared with at higher elevations (-10/20% vs. -40/50% comparing relative rates at 1800 m asl and 2300-2500 m asl, respectively). Within the coffee-growing elevation, the proportion of sites with high coffee cover (>20%) was significantly higher in stable margins (42% of sites that had been in the same location for the entire period) than in recently changed margins (0% of sites where expansion of annual crops had changed the margin). Disturbance level and forest structure did not differ between sites with 30% or 3% coffee. However, a growing body of literature on gradients of coffee management in Ethiopia reports coffee's negative effects on abundances of forest-specialist species. Even if the presence of coffee slows down the conversion of forest to annual-crop agriculture, there is a risk that an intensification of coffee management will still threaten forest biodiversity, including the genetic diversity of wild coffee. Conservation policy for Ethiopian forests thus needs to develop strategies that acknowledge that forests without coffee production may have higher deforestation risks than forests with coffee production and that forests with coffee production often have lower biodiversity value. © 2013 Society for Conservation Biology.

Monoterpene emissions from needles of hybrid larch F1 (Larix gmelinii var. japonica × Larix kaempferi) grown under elevated carbon dioxide and ozone

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mochizuki, Tomoki; Watanabe, Makoto; Koike, Takayoshi; Tani, Akira

2017-01-01

We measured monoterpene emissions from needles of hybrid larch F1 (Larix gmelinii var. japonica × Larix kaempferi) to evaluate the response of monoterpene emission rates and their composition to elevated CO2 (600 μmol mol-1) and O3 (60 nmol mol-1) conditions. The dominant monoterpenes were α-pinene and β-pinene. The emission rate of total monoterpenes significantly decreased under elevated CO2 conditions (P < 0.05). The ratio of carbon emission in the form of monoterpenes to photosynthetically fixed carbon also significantly decreased under elevated CO2 conditions. By contrast, elevated O3 did not significantly affect the emission rate of total monoterpenes. The ratios of α-pinene/β-pinene, limonene/β-pinene, and myrcene/β-pinene were all significantly decreased by O3 exposure (P < 0.05). High reactivity of α-pinene, limonene, and myrcene when combining with O3 may be able to mitigate oxidative damage inside the larch needles. No significant combined effects of elevated CO2 and O3 on individual or total monoterpene emissions were detected.

[Correlation of medial compartmental joint line elevation with femorotibial angle correction and clinical function after unicompartmental arthroplasty].

PubMed

Zhang, Zhan-Feng; Wang, Dan; Min, Ji-Kang

2017-04-25

To study the correlation of postoperative femorotibial angle with medial compartmental joint line elevation after unicompartmental arthroplasty(UKA), as well as the correlation of joint line elevation with the clinical function by measuring radiological joint line. A retrospective study of 56 patients from July 2012 to August 2015 was performed. The mean body mass index (BMI) was 23.5 (ranged, 18.3 to 30.1). The standing anteroposterior radiographs of these patients were assessed both pre-and post-operatively, and the knee function was evaluated according to HSS grading. The correlation between postoperative femorotibial angle(FTA) and joint line elevation was analyzed as well as the correlation between joint line elevation and the clinical function. The mean medial joint line elevation was (2.2±2.0) mm(ranged, -3.3 to 7.0 mm), and the mean FTA correction was (2.3±3.0)°(ranged, -4.5° to 9.6°). The mean follow-up period was 12.2 months. There was a significant correlation between in joint line elevation and FTA correction( P <0.05), while there was no significant correlation between joint line elevation and the clinical function( P >0.05). There was a significant correlation between medial compartmental joint line elevation and FTA correction after UKA, and the proximal tibial osteotomy was critical during the procedure. There was no significant correlation between joint line elevation and the clinical function, which may be related to the design of UKA prosthesis.

Retrieving improved multi-temporal CryoSat elevations over ice caps and glaciers - a case study of Barnes ice cap

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nilsson, Johan; Burgess, David

2014-05-01

The CryoSat mission was launched in 2010 to observe the Earth's cryosphere. In contrast to previous satellite radar altimeters, this mission is expected to monitor the elevation of small ice caps and glaciers, which according to the IPCC will be the largest contributor to 21st century sea level rise. To date the ESA CryoSat SARiN level-2 (L2) elevation product is not yet fully optimized for use over these types of glaciated regions, as its processed with a more universal algorithm. Thus the aim of this study is to demonstrate that with the use of improved processing CryoSat SARiN data can be used for more accurate topography mapping and elevation change detection for ice caps and glaciers. To demonstrate this, elevations and elevation changes over Barnes ice cap, located on Baffin Island in the Canadian Arctic, have been estimated from available data from the years 2010-2013. ESA's CryoSat level-1b (L1b) SARiN baseline "B" data product was used and processed in-house to estimate surface elevations. The resulting product is referred to as DTU-L2. The processing focused on improving the retracker, reducing phase noise and correcting phase ambiguities. The accuracy of the DTU-L2 and the ESA-L2 product was determined by comparing the measured elevations against NASA's IceBridge Airborne Topographic Mapper (ATM) elevations from May 2011. The resulting difference in accuracy was determined by comparing their associated errors. From the multi-temporal measurements spanning the period 2010-2013, elevation changes where estimated and compared to ICESat derived changes from 2003-2009. The result of the study shows good agreement between the NASA measured ATM elevations and the DTU-L2 data. It also shows that the pattern of elevation change is similar to that derived from ICESat data. The accuracy of the DTU-L2 estimated elevations is on average several factors higher compared to the ESA-L2 elevation product. These preliminary results demonstrates that CryoSat elevation data, using improved processing, can be used for accurate topographic mapping and elevation change detection on ice caps and glaciers. Future work would entail extending this processing to other regions of this type to support these results.

Wood properties of Scots pines (Pinus sylvestris) grown at elevated temperature and carbon dioxide concentration.

PubMed

Kilpeläinen, Antti; Peltola, Heli; Ryyppö, Aija; Sauvala, Kari; Laitinen, Kaisa; Kellomäki, Seppo

2003-09-01

Impacts of elevated temperature and carbon dioxide concentration ([CO2]) on wood properties of 15-year-old Scots pines (Pinus sylvestris L.) grown under conditions of low nitrogen supply were investigated in open-top chambers. The treatments consisted of (i) ambient temperature and ambient [CO2] (AT+AC), (ii) ambient temperature and elevated [CO2] (AT+EC), (iii) elevated temperature and ambient [CO2] (ET+AC) and (iv) elevated temperature and elevated [CO2] (ET+EC). Wood properties analyzed for the years 1992-1994 included ring width, early- and latewood width and their proportions, intra-ring wood density (minimum, maximum and mean, as well as early- and latewood densities), mean fiber length and chemical composition of the wood (cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin and acetone extractive concentration). Absolute radial growth over the 3-year period was 54% greater in AT+EC trees and 30 and 25% greater in ET+AC and ET+EC trees, respectively, than in AT+AC trees. Neither elevated temperature nor elevated [CO2] had a statistically significant effect on ring width, early- and latewood widths or their proportions. Both latewood density and maximum intra-ring density were increased by elevated [CO2], whereas fiber length was increased by elevated temperature. Hemicellulose concentration decreased and lignin concentration increased significantly in response to elevated temperature. There were no statistically significant interaction effects of elevated temperature and elevated [CO2] on the wood properties, except on earlywood density.

Central hemodynamics and arterial stiffness in idiopathic and multiple system atrophy.

PubMed

Franzen, Klaas; Fliegen, Sabine; Koester, Jelena; Martin, Rafael Campos; Deuschl, Günther; Reppel, Michael; Mortensen, Kai; Schneider, Susanne A

2017-02-01

Blood pressure is commonly abnormal in parkinsonian disorders, but central hemodynamics and arterial stiffness, well-established predictors of total cardiovascular risk, have rarely been studied in these disorders. 32 patients [27 with idiopathic Parkinson's disease (iPD); 5 with multiple system atrophy (MSA)] and 15 controls matched for cardiac risk factors underwent 24 h-ambulatory blood pressure recordings using an I.E.M. device (Mobil-O-Graph™), measuring peripheral pressure and calculating central pressures and arterial stiffness. Mean augmentation indices corrected for heart rate (AIx@75) were significantly lower and pulse wave velocities were significantly elevated in patients compared to controls. Central systolic blood pressure, cardiac output and daytime total vascular resistance were significantly elevated in patients. Mean nocturnal systolic peripheral blood pressure and nocturnal heart rates were also significantly higher; 56.3% of patients had nocturnal hypertension (80% of the MSA group); 85.2% showed non-dipping. This supports previous findings of reduced vulnerability to systemic atherosclerosis and end-organ damage in treated PD. Yet, hemodynamic abnormalities were common and often remained asymptomatic.

Trace metal release after minimally-invasive repair of pectus excavatum.

PubMed

Fortmann, Caroline; Göen, Thomas; Krüger, Marcus; Ure, Benno M; Petersen, Claus; Kübler, Joachim F

2017-01-01

Several studies have shown a high incidence of metal allergy after minimally-invasive repair of pectus excavatum (MIRPE). We postulated that MIRPE is associated with a significant release of trace metal ions, possibly causing the allergic symptoms. We evaluated the concentration with chromium, cobalt and nickel in blood, urine and tissue in patients prior to MIRPE and in patients who underwent an explantation of the stainless-steel bar(s) after three years. Our study group consisted of 20 patients (mean age 19 years) who had bar explantation and our control group included 20 patients (mean age 16 years) prior to MIRPE. At the time of bar removal we detected significantly elevated concentrations of chromium and nickel in the tissue compared to patients prior to the procedure (p<0,001). We also found a significant increase in the levels of chromium in urine and nickel in blood in patients three years post MIRPE (p<0,001). Four patients temporarily developed symptoms of metal allergy, all had elevated metal values in blood and urine at explantation. Minimally-invasive repair of pectus excavatum can lead to a significant trace metal exposure.

Clinical and immunological surveys in bee keepers.

PubMed

Bousquet, J; Coulomb, Y; Robinet-Levy, M; Michel, F B

1982-07-01

Two hundred and fifty bee keepers in the South of France, working seasonally, were clinically investigated by means of a questionnaire. Forty-three per cent had presented anaphylactic symptoms and 7.0% toxic reactions when stung by bees. The personal atopic history was found to be significantly (P less than 0.01) elevated in bee keepers who experienced anaphylaxis. Total serum IgE and been venom-specific IgE were titrated in 100 subjects. Total serum IgE was significantly elevated in allergic bee keepers (P = 0.02). Although bee venom-specific IgE were significantly (P less than 0.01) higher in allergic bee keepers this parameter cannot discriminate between allergic and non-allergic bee keepers owing to a considerable overlap. Bee venom-specific IgG was assayed in seventy subjects. Their level was significantly (P less than 0.001) higher in allergic and non-allergic bee keepers as compared with non-allergic blood donors and non-bee-keeping allergic patients. In both bee keeper groups there was no difference in bee venom-specific IgG titres.

Clinical significance of serum decoy receptor 3 levels in patients with systemic sclerosis.

PubMed

Yamada, Daisuke; Asano, Yoshihide; Takahashi, Takehiro; Masui, Yuri; Aozasa, Naohiko; Akamata, Kaname; Noda, Shinji; Tamaki, Zenshiro; Tada, Yayoi; Sugaya, Makoto; Sato, Shinichi; Kadono, Takafumi

2012-01-01

Decoy receptor 3 (DcR3) is associated with autoimmunity and altered angiogenesis in certain pathological conditions. We herein measured serum DcR3 levels in 51 patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) and 19 healthy controls and evaluated their clinical significance in this disorder. Serum DcR3 levels were significantly higher in diffuse cutaneous SSc (dcSSc) patients than in limited cutaneous SSc patients and in healthy controls. In dcSSc, serum DcR3 levels were significantly elevated in patients with disease duration of ≤6 years compared with healthy controls, but not in those with disease duration of >6 years. Serum DcR3 levels correlated negatively with the percentage of predicted diffusion lung capacity for carbon monoxide and positively with right ventricular systolic pressure. Furthermore, serum DcR3 levels positively correlated with C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate and immunoglobulin G. Collectively, the elevation of serum DcR3 levels is associated with the development of pulmonary arterial hypertension and systemic inflammation in SSc.

Child sexual behavior inventory: a comparison between Latino and normative samples of preschoolers.

PubMed

Kenny, Maureen C; Wurtele, Sandy K

2013-01-01

There is a relative dearth of research examining normative sexual behavior in Latino preschool children, despite an increased presence of Latinos as a minority population in the United States. To meet this need, a sample of Latino mothers were asked to complete the Child Sexual Behavior Inventory (CSBI; Friedrich et al., 1992 ) on their preschool-aged children (3 to 5 years old; n = 188). When their children's scores were compared to CSBI normative data, significant differences emerged. Compared to the normative sample, Latino boys and girls scored significantly higher on the sexual abuse specific items subscale, and Latino girls scored significantly higher on the developmentally related sexual behavior subscale. Possible cultural explanations for these elevations are explored.

Antioxidant activity of the oyster mushroom, Pleurotus ostreatus, on CCl(4)-induced liver injury in rats.

PubMed

Jayakumar, T; Ramesh, E; Geraldine, P

2006-12-01

This study was undertaken to investigate the putative antioxidant activity of the oyster mushroom Pleurotus ostreatus on CCl(4)-induced liver damage in male Wistar rats. Intraperitoneal administration of CCl(4) (2ml/kg) to rats for 4 days resulted in significantly elevated (p<0.05) serum levels of glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), glutamic pyruvate transaminase (SGPT) and alkaline phosphatase (SALP) compared to controls. In the liver, significantly elevated levels (p<0.05) of malondialdehyde (MDA) and lowered levels (p<0.05) of reduced glutathione (GSH) were observed following CCl(4) administration. Quantitative and qualitative analysis of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (Gpx) revealed lower activities of these antioxidant enzymes in the liver of CCl(4)-administered rats. An analysis of the isozyme pattern of these enzymes revealed variations in relative concentration presumably due to hepatotoxicity. When rats with CCl(4)-induced hepatotoxicity were treated with the extract of P. ostreatus, the serum SGOT, SGPT and SALP levels reverted to near normal, while the hepatic concentration of GSH, CAT, SOD and Gpx were significantly increased (p<0.05) and that of MDA significantly (p<0.05) lowered, when compared to CCl(4)-exposed untreated rats. Histopathological studies confirmed the hepatoprotective effect conferred by the extract of P. ostreatus. These results suggest that an extract of P. ostreatus is able to significantly alleviate the hepatotoxicity induced by CCl(4) in the rat.

Prevalence and metabolic characteristics of adrenal androgen excess in hyperandrogenic women with different phenotypes.

PubMed

Carmina, E; Lobo, R A

2007-02-01

Serum DHEAS has been found to be elevated in some women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). We wished to determine whether this prevalence is different in women with androgen excess who have different phenotypes and to correlate these findings with various cardiovascular and metabolic parameters. Two hundred and thirty-eight young hyperandrogenic women categorized into various diagnostic groups were evaluated for elevations in serum DHEAS, testosterone, glucose, insulin, quantitative insulin-sensitivity check index (QUICKI), cholesterol, HDL-C, LDL-C, triglycerides and C-reactive protein (CRP). Data were stratified based on elevations in DHEAS. Serum DHEAS was elevated in 39.5% for the entire group [36.7% in PCOS and 48.3% in idiopathic hyperandrogenism (IHA)]. In classic (C)-PCOS, the prevalence was 39.6% and in ovulatory (OV) PCOS it was 29.1%. These differences were not statistically significant. Women with elevated DHEAS had higher testosterone but lower insulin, higher QUICKI, lower total and LDL-cholesterol and higher HDL-cholesterol, p<0.01. Triglycerides and CRP were not different. This trend was greatest in women with C-PCOS. The prevalence of adrenal hyperandrogenism, as determined by elevations in DHEAS, appears to be statistically similar in IHA, C-PCOS and compared to OV-PCOS. Metabolic and cardiovascular parameters were noted to be more favorable in those women who have higher DHEAS levels.

The effect of topography on arctic-alpine aboveground biomass and NDVI patterns

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Riihimäki, Henri; Heiskanen, Janne; Luoto, Miska

2017-04-01

Topography is a key factor affecting numerous environmental phenomena, including Arctic and alpine aboveground biomass (AGB) distribution. Digital Elevation Model (DEM) is a source of topographic information which can be linked to local growing conditions. Here, we investigated the effect of DEM derived variables, namely elevation, topographic position, radiation and wetness on AGB and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) in a Fennoscandian forest-alpine tundra ecotone. Boosted regression trees were used to derive non-parametric response curves and relative influences of the explanatory variables. Elevation and potential incoming solar radiation were the most important explanatory variables for both AGB and NDVI. In the NDVI models, the response curves were smooth compared with AGB models. This might be caused by large contribution of field and shrub layer to NDVI, especially at the treeline. Furthermore, radiation and elevation had a significant interaction, showing that the highest NDVI and biomass values are found from low-elevation, high-radiation sites, typically on the south-southwest facing valley slopes. Topographic wetness had minor influence on AGB and NDVI. Topographic position had generally weak effects on AGB and NDVI, although protected topographic position seemed to be more favorable below the treeline. The explanatory power of the topographic variables, particularly elevation and radiation demonstrates that DEM-derived land surface parameters can be used for exploring biomass distribution resulting from landform control on local growing conditions.

Comparison of cardiovascular disease risk in two main forms of periodontitis

PubMed Central

Chopra, Rahul; Patil, Sudhir R.; Mathur, Shivani

2012-01-01

Background: C-reactive protein (CRP) is an acute phase reactant and has been proved to be a significant predictor of future cardiovascular events. Recent studies have demonstrated a correlation between periodontitis and elevated CRP levels. However, comparison between the levels of CRP in two main forms of periodontitis is ambiguous. This study aims at determining and comparing the relative levels of serum CRP in aggressive and chronic periodontitis patients. Materials and Methods: A total of 240 systemically healthy subjects were divided into three groups of 80 based on having generalized aggressive periodontitis, chronic generalized periodontitis and non-periodontitis (NP; controls). Venous blood samples were collected for quantitative CRP analysis using turbidimetric immunoassay. Results: Mean CRP levels were significantly greater in both generalized aggressive periodontitis (7.49±2.31 mg/l) and chronic generalized periodontitis (4.88±1.80 mg/l) groups as compared to NP (0.68±0.23 mg/l) controls. Moreover, CRP levels were significantly higher in aggressive periodontitis as compared to chronic periodontitis patients. Also, CRP levels positively correlated with the amount of periodontal destruction as measured by probing depth and clinical attachment loss for both chronic generalized periodontitis and generalized aggressive periodontitis. Conclusion: Findings of the present study indicated that periodontitis should be of particular concern in younger individuals, where elevated levels of CRP may contribute to early or more rapid cardiovascular disease in susceptible patients. Thus, further research should be carried out at a community level to ascertain these findings. PMID:22363367

Effect of iron supplementation during lactation on maternal iron status and oxidative stress: A randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Jorgensen, Josh M; Yang, Zhenyu; Lönnerdal, Bo; Chantry, Caroline J; Dewey, Kathryn G

2017-10-01

We examined the effect of iron-containing prenatal vitamin-mineral supplements taken postpartum on biomarkers of iron status and oxidative stress. Lactating women (n = 114) were randomly assigned to consume daily one iron-free prenatal vitamin-mineral supplement plus either 27 mg of iron or placebo for approximately 3.5 months. The placebo group took the tablets between meals, while those given iron took the tablets either with (Fe-W) or between meals (Fe-B). Blood and urine samples were collected before and after the supplementation period to analyze hemoglobin (Hb), ferritin, hepcidin, transferrin saturation (TfSat), total plasma iron, and biomarkers of oxidative stress (isoprostane and 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG)) and inflammation (C-reactive protein (CRP) and alpha-1-acid glycoprotein (AGP)). There was a trend toward a greater change in Hb among women in the Fe-B group compared to placebo (+2.5 vs. -3.7 g/L, respectively, p = 0.063). When the iron groups were combined, there was a greater change in Hb (+1.4 g/L) compared to placebo (p = 0.010). There were trends toward greater changes in TfSat (p = 0.087) and total plasma iron (p = 0.065) in the iron groups compared to placebo, yet no significant differences between the three groups in change in hepcidin (p = 0.291), isoprostane (p = 0.319), or 8-OHdG (p = 0.659), nor in change in ferritin among those with elevated CRP at baseline (60% of women; p = 0.946); among those without elevated CRP (40% of women), ferritin increased more in the iron groups compared to placebo (p = 0.001). Iron consumption during lactation moderately increased iron status, particularly among women without elevated CRP, and increased Hb, but did not significantly increase oxidative stress. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Additional diagnostic and prognostic value of copeptin ultra-sensitive for diagnosis of non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction in older patients presenting to the emergency department.

PubMed

Bahrmann, Philipp; Bahrmann, Anke; Breithardt, Ole-A; Daniel, Werner G; Christ, Michael; Sieber, Cornel C; Bertsch, Thomas

2013-06-01

Identifying older patients with non-ST- elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) within the very large proportion with elevated high-sensitive cardiac troponin T (hs-cTnT) is a diagnostic challenge because they often present without clear symptoms or electrocardiographic features of acute coronary syndrome to the emergency department (ED). We prospectively investigated the diagnostic and prognostic performance of copeptin ultra-sensitive (copeptin-us) and hs-cTnT compared to hs-cTnT alone for NSTEMI at prespecified cut-offs in unselected older patients. We consecutively enrolled 306 non-surgical patients ≥70 years presenting to the ED. In addition to clinical examination, copeptin-us and hs-cTnT were measured at admission. Two cardiologists independently adjudicated the final diagnosis of NSTEMI after reviewing all available data. All patients were followed up for cardiovascular-related death within the following 12 months. NSTEMI was diagnosed in 38 (12%) patients (age 81±6 years). The combination of copeptin-us ≥14 pmol/L and hs-cTnT ≥0.014 µg/L compared to hs-cTnT ≥0.014 µg/L alone had a positive predictive value of 21% vs. 19% to rule in NSTEMI. The combination of copeptin-us <14 pmol/L and hs-cTnT <0.014 µg/L compared to hs-cTnT <0.014 µg/L alone had a negative predictive value of 100% vs. 99% to rule out NSTEMI. Hs-cTnT ≥0.014 µg/L alone was significantly associated with outcome. When copeptin-us ≥14 pmol/L was added, the net reclassification improvement for outcome was not significant (p=0.809). In unselected older patients presenting to the ED, the additional use of copeptin-us at predefined cut-offs may help to reliably rule out NSTEMI but may not help to increase predicted risk for outcome compared to hs-cTnT alone.

Metal stress and decreased tree growth in response to biosolids application in greenhouse seedlings and in situ Douglas-fir stands.

PubMed

Cline, Erica T; Nguyen, Quyen T N; Rollins, Lucy; Gawel, James E

2012-01-01

To assess physiological impacts of biosolids on trees, metal contaminants and phytochelatins were measured in Douglas-fir stands amended with biosolids in 1982. A subsequent greenhouse study compared these same soils to soils amended with fresh wastewater treatment plant biosolids. Biosolids-amended field soils had significantly higher organic matter, lower pH, and elevated metals even after 25 years. In the field study, no beneficial growth effects were detected in biosolids-amended stands and in the greenhouse study both fresh and historic biosolids amendments resulted in lower seedling growth rates. Phytochelatins - bioindicators of intracellular metal stress - were elevated in foliage of biosolids-amended stands, and significantly higher in roots of seedlings grown with fresh biosolids. These results demonstrate that biosolids amendments have short- and long-term negative effects that may counteract the expected tree growth benefits. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Function of Serum Complement in Drinking Water Arsenic Toxicity

PubMed Central

Islam, Laila N.; Zahid, M. Shamim Hasan; Nabi, A. H. M. Nurun; Hossain, Mahmud

2012-01-01

Serum complement function was evaluated in 125 affected subjects suffering from drinking water arsenic toxicity. Their mean duration of exposure was 7.4 ± 5.3 yrs, and the levels of arsenic in drinking water and urine samples were 216 ± 211 and 223 ± 302 μg/L, respectively. The mean bactericidal activity of complement from the arsenic patients was 92% and that in the unexposed controls was 99% (P < 0.01), but heat-inactivated serum showed slightly elevated activity than in controls. In patients, the mean complement C3 was 1.56 g/L, and C4 was 0.29 g/L compared to 1.68 g/L and 0.25 g/L, respectively, in the controls. The mean IgG in the arsenic patients was 24.3 g/L that was highly significantly elevated (P < 0.001). Arsenic patients showed a significant direct correlation between C3 and bactericidal activity (P = 0.014). Elevated levels of C4 indicated underutilization and possibly impaired activity of the classical complement pathway. We conclude reduced function of serum complement in drinking water arsenic toxicity. PMID:22545044

C-reactive protein levels: a prognostic marker for patients with head and neck cancer?

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Background Recent advances in understanding complex tumor interactions have led to the discovery of an association between inflammation and cancer, in particular for colon and lung cancer, but only a very few have dealt with oral cancer. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to investigate the significance of preoperative C-reactive protein (CRP) levels as a parameter for development of lymph node metastases or recurrence. Materials and methods In 278 patients with oral cancer, preoperative CRP levels were compared with development of recurrence and metastasis. Results In 27 patients from the normal CRP group, and in 21 patients from the elevated CRP group, local recurrence was observed. Concerning lymph node metastases, 37 patients were in the normal group and 9 patients in the elevated CRP group. No significant correlation could be found between elevated CRP levels and metastasis (p = 0.468) or recurrence (p = 0.137). Conclusion Our findings do not appear to support a correlation between preoperative CRP levels and development of recurrence or metastases. In further studies, CRP levels in precancerous lesions and in Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) positive patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) should be studied. PMID:20673375

C-reactive protein levels: a prognostic marker for patients with head and neck cancer?

PubMed

Kruse, Astrid L; Luebbers, Heinz T; Grätz, Klaus W

2010-08-02

Recent advances in understanding complex tumor interactions have led to the discovery of an association between inflammation and cancer, in particular for colon and lung cancer, but only a very few have dealt with oral cancer. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to investigate the significance of preoperative C-reactive protein (CRP) levels as a parameter for development of lymph node metastases or recurrence. In 278 patients with oral cancer, preoperative CRP levels were compared with development of recurrence and metastasis. In 27 patients from the normal CRP group, and in 21 patients from the elevated CRP group, local recurrence was observed. Concerning lymph node metastases, 37 patients were in the normal group and 9 patients in the elevated CRP group. No significant correlation could be found between elevated CRP levels and metastasis (p = 0.468) or recurrence (p = 0.137). Our findings do not appear to support a correlation between preoperative CRP levels and development of recurrence or metastases. In further studies, CRP levels in precancerous lesions and in Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) positive patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) should be studied.

Analysis of cellular and protein content of broncho-alveolar lavage fluid from patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis.

PubMed Central

Reynolds, H Y; Fulmer, J D; Kazmierowski, J A; Roberts, W C; Frank, M M; Crystal, R G

1977-01-01

To evaluate cellular and protein components in the lower respiratory tract of patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis (CHP), limited broncho-alveolar lavage was done in 58 patients (19 IPF, 7 CHP, and 32 controls). Analysis of the cells and protein in the lavage fluids from patients with IPF revealed an inflammatory and eosinophilic response and a significant elevation of IgG in the lungs. With corticosteroid therapy, inflammation diminished but eosinophils remained. Lavage fluid from patients with CHP also had eosinophils and elevated levels of IgG. However, in contrast to IPF, lavage fluid from CHP patients contained IgM, fewer inflammatory cells, and a strikingly increased number (38-74%) of lymphocytes. Identification of lavage lymphocytes in CHP showed that T lymphocytes were significantly elevated and B lymphocytes were decreased compared to peripheral blood. These studies suggest nthat the lung in IPF and CHP may function as a relatively independent immune organ, and that analysis of cells and proteins in broncho-alveolar lavage fluid may be of diagnostic, therapeutic, and investigative value in evaluating patients with fibrotic lung disease. PMID:830661

Oxidative Stress in Dilated Cardiomyopathy Caused by MYBPC3 Mutation

PubMed Central

Lynch, Thomas L.; Sivaguru, Mayandi; Velayutham, Murugesan; Cardounel, Arturo J.; Michels, Michelle; Barefield, David; Govindan, Suresh; dos Remedios, Cristobal; van der Velden, Jolanda; Sadayappan, Sakthivel

2015-01-01

Cardiomyopathies can result from mutations in genes encoding sarcomere proteins including MYBPC3, which encodes cardiac myosin binding protein-C (cMyBP-C). However, whether oxidative stress is augmented due to contractile dysfunction and cardiomyocyte damage in MYBPC3-mutated cardiomyopathies has not been elucidated. To determine whether oxidative stress markers were elevated in MYBPC3-mutated cardiomyopathies, a previously characterized 3-month-old mouse model of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) expressing a homozygous MYBPC3 mutation (cMyBP-C(t/t)) was used, compared to wild-type (WT) mice. Echocardiography confirmed decreased percentage of fractional shortening in DCM versus WT hearts. Histopathological analysis indicated a significant increase in myocardial disarray and fibrosis while the second harmonic generation imaging revealed disorganized sarcomeric structure and myocyte damage in DCM hearts when compared to WT hearts. Intriguingly, DCM mouse heart homogenates had decreased glutathione (GSH/GSSG) ratio and increased protein carbonyl and lipid malondialdehyde content compared to WT heart homogenates, consistent with elevated oxidative stress. Importantly, a similar result was observed in human cardiomyopathy heart homogenate samples. These results were further supported by reduced signals for mitochondrial semiquinone radicals and Fe-S clusters in DCM mouse hearts measured using electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy. In conclusion, we demonstrate elevated oxidative stress in MYPBC3-mutated DCM mice, which may exacerbate the development of heart failure. PMID:26508994

Differences in symptoms, first medical contact and pre-hospital delay times between patients with ST- and non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction.

PubMed

Ängerud, Karin H; Sederholm Lawesson, Sofia; Isaksson, Rose-Marie; Thylén, Ingela; Swahn, Eva

2017-11-01

In ST-elevation myocardial infarction, time to reperfusion is crucial for the prognosis. Symptom presentation in myocardial infarction influences pre-hospital delay times but studies about differences in symptoms between patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction and non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction are sparse and inconclusive. The aim was to compare symptoms, first medical contact and pre-hospital delay times in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction and non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction. This multicentre, observational study included 694 myocardial infarction patients from five hospitals. The patients filled in a questionnaire about their pre-hospital experiences within 24 h of hospital admittance. Chest pain was the most common symptom in ST-elevation myocardial infarction and non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (88.7 vs 87.0%, p=0.56). Patients with cold sweat (odds ratio 3.61, 95% confidence interval 2.29-5.70), jaw pain (odds ratio 2.41, 95% confidence interval 1.04-5.58), and nausea (odds ratio 1.70, 95% confidence interval 1.01-2.87) were more likely to present with ST-elevation myocardial infarction, whereas the opposite was true for symptoms that come and go (odds ratio 0.58, 95% confidence interval 0.38-0.90) or anxiety (odds ratio 0.52, 95% confidence interval 0.29-0.92). Use of emergency medical services was higher among patients admitted with ST-elevation myocardial infarction. The pre-hospital delay time from symptom onset to first medical contact was significantly longer in non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (2:05 h vs 1:10 h, p=0.001). Patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction differed from those with non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction regarding symptom presentation, ambulance utilisation and pre-hospital delay times. This knowledge is important to be aware of for all healthcare personnel and the general public especially in order to recognise symptoms suggestive of ST-elevation myocardial infarction and when to decide if there is a need for an ambulance.

Effects of elevated temperature and CO2 concentration on photosynthesis of the alpine plants in Zoige Plateau, China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zijuan, Zhou; Peixi, Su; Rui, Shi; Tingting, Xie

2017-04-01

Increasing temperature and carbon dioxide concentration are the important aspects of global climate change. Alpine ecosystem response to global change was more sensitive and rapid than other ecosystems. Increases in temperature and atmospheric CO2concentrations have strong impacts on plant physiology. Photosynthesis is the basis for plant growth and the decisive factor for the level of productivity, and also is a very sensitive physiological process to climate change. In this study, we examined the interactive effects of elevated temperature and atmospheric CO2 concentration on the light response of photosynthesis in two alpine plants Elymus nutans and Potentilla anserine, which were widely distributed in alpine meadow in the Zoige Plateau, China. We set up as follows: the control (Ta 20˚ C, CO2 380μmolṡmol-1), elevated temperature (Ta 25˚ C, CO2 380 μmolṡmol-1), elevated CO2 concentration (Ta 20˚ C, CO2 700μmolṡmol-1), elevated temperature and CO2 concentration (Ta 25˚ C, CO2 700μmolṡmol-1). The results showed that compared to P. anserine, E. nutans had a higher maximum net photosynthetic rate (Pnmax), light saturation point (LSP) and apparent quantum yield (AQY) in the control. Elevated temperature increased the Pnmaxand LSP values in P. anserine, while Pnmaxand LSP were decreased in E. nutans. Elevated CO2 increased the Pnmaxand LSP values in E. nutans and P. anserine, while the light compensation point (LCP) decreased; Elevated both temperature and CO2, the Pnmaxand LSP were all increased for E. nutans and P. anserine, but did not significantly affect AQY. We concluded that although elevated temperature had a photoinhibition for E. nutans, the interaction of short-term elevated CO2 concentration and temperature can improve the photosynthetic capacity of alpine plants. Key Words: elevated temperature; CO2 concentration; light response; alpine plants

Carbon Dioxide and Water Vapor Fluxes at Reduced and Elevated CO2 Concentrations in Southern California Chaparral

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cheng, Y.; Oechel, W. C.; Hastings, S. J.; Bryant, P. J.; Qian, Y.

2003-12-01

This research took two different approaches to measuring carbon and water vapor fluxes at the plot level (2 x 2 meter and 1 x 1 meter plots) to help understand and predict ecosystem responses to elevated CO2 concentrations and concomitant environmental changes. The first measurement approach utilized a CO2-controlled, ambient lit, temperature controlled (CO2LT) null-balance chamber system run in a chaparral ecosystem in southern California, with six different CO2 concentrations ranging from 250 to 750 ppm CO2 concentrations with 100 ppm difference between treatments. The second measurement approach used a free air CO2 enrichment (FACE) system operated at 550 ppm CO2 concentration. These manipulations allowed the study of responses of naturally-growing chaparral to varying levels of CO2, under both chamber and open air conditions. There was a statistically significant CO2 effect on annual NEE (net ecosystem exchange) during the period of this study, 1997 to 2000. The effects of elevated CO2 on CO2 and water vapor flux showed strong seasonal patterns. Elevated CO2 delayed the development of water stress, enhanced leaf-level photosynthesis, and decreased transpiration and conductance rates. These effects were observed regardless of water availability. Ecosystem CO2 sink strength and plant water status were significantly enhanced by elevated CO2 when water availability was restricted. Comparing the FACE treatment and the FACE control, the ecosystem was either a stronger sink or a weaker source to the atmosphere throughout the dry seasons, but there was no statistically significant difference during the wet seasons. Annual average leaf transpiration decreased with the increasing of the atmospheric CO2 concentration. Although leaf level water-use efficiency (WUE) increased with the growth CO2 concentration increase, annual evapotranspiration (ET) during these four years also increased with the increase of the atmospheric CO2 concentrations. These results indicate that chaparral or other similar ecosystems, under future elevated CO2 concentrations, might be even more water stressed than they are under current conditions.

Elevated risk of child maltreatment in families with stepparents but not with adoptive parents.

PubMed

van Ijzendoorn, Marinus H; Euser, Eveline M; Prinzie, Peter; Juffer, Femmie; Bakermans-Kranenburg, Marian J

2009-11-01

Does child maltreatment occur more often in adoptive and stepfamilies than in biological families? Data were collected from all 17 Dutch child protective services (CPS) agencies on 13,538 cases of certified child maltreatment in 2005. Family composition of the maltreated children was compared to a large national representative sample of the Netherlands Kinship Panel Study (NKPS). Larger families, one-parent families, and families with a stepparent showed elevated risks for child maltreatment. Adoptive families, however, showed significantly less child maltreatment than expected. The findings are discussed in the context of parental investment theory that seems to be applicable to stepparents but not to adoptive parents.

Sparing of extraocular muscle in aging and muscular dystrophies: A myogenic precursor cell hypothesis

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

Kallestad, Kristen M.; Hebert, Sadie L.; McDonald, Abby A.

2011-04-01

The extraocular muscles (EOM) are spared from pathology in aging and many forms of muscular dystrophy. Despite many studies, this sparing remains an enigma. The EOM have a distinct embryonic lineage compared to somite-derived muscles, and we have shown that they continuously remodel throughout life, maintaining a population of activated satellite cells even in aging. These data suggested the hypothesis that there is a population of myogenic precursor cells (mpcs) in EOM that is different from those in limb, with either elevated numbers of stem cells and/or mpcs with superior proliferative capacity compared to mpcs in limb. Using flow cytometry,more » EOM and limb muscle mononuclear cells were compared, and a number of differences were seen. Using two different cell isolation methods, EOM have significantly more mpcs per mg muscle than limb skeletal muscle. One specific subpopulation significantly increased in EOM compared to limb was positive for CD34 and negative for Sca-1, M-cadherin, CD31, and CD45. We named these the EOMCD34 cells. Similar percentages of EOMCD34 cells were present in both newborn EOM and limb muscle. They were retained in aged EOM, whereas the population decreased significantly in adult limb muscle and were extremely scarce in aged limb muscle. Most importantly, the percentage of EOMCD34 cells was elevated in the EOM from both the mdx and the mdx/utrophin{sup -/-} (DKO) mouse models of DMD and extremely scarce in the limb muscles of these mice. In vitro, the EOMCD34 cells had myogenic potential, forming myotubes in differentiation media. After determining a media better able to induce proliferation in these cells, a fusion index was calculated. The cells isolated from EOM had a 40% higher fusion index compared to the same cells isolated from limb muscle. The EOMCD34 cells were resistant to both oxidative stress and mechanical injury. These data support our hypothesis that the EOM may be spared in aging and in muscular dystrophies due to a subpopulation of mpcs, the EOMCD34 cells, that are retained in significantly higher percentages in normal, mdx and DKO mice EOM, appear to be resistant to elevated levels of oxidative stress and toxins, and actively proliferate throughout life. Current studies are focused on further defining the EOMCD34 cell subtype molecularly, with the hopes that this may shed light on a cell type with potential therapeutic use in patients with sarcopenia, cachexia, or muscular dystrophy.« less

Association between polychlorinated biphenyls and Parkinson's disease neuropathology.

PubMed

Hatcher-Martin, Jaime M; Gearing, Marla; Steenland, Kyle; Levey, Allan I; Miller, Gary W; Pennell, Kurt D

2012-10-01

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are synthetic chemicals primarily used as coolants and insulators in electrical equipment. Although banned for several decades, PCBs continue to exist in the environment because of their long half-life, continued presence in items produced before the ban, and poor disposal practices. Epidemiological and experimental studies have identified exposure to PCBs as a potential risk factor for Parkinson's disease, perhaps more so in females. The objective of this work was to examine the association between PCB levels in post-mortem human brain tissue and the diagnosis of Parkinson's disease, as well as the degree of nigral depigmentation. We also sought to determine if this association was more significant when patients were stratified by sex. Post-mortem brain samples from control patients and those diagnosed with Parkinson's disease were obtained from the Emory University Brain Bank and from the Nun Study. Concentrations of eight prevalent PCB congeners were extracted from post-mortem brain tissue and analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. PCB congeners 153 and 180 were significantly elevated in the brains of Parkinson's disease patients. When stratified by sex, the female Parkinson's disease group demonstrated significantly elevated concentrations of total PCBs and specifically congeners 138, 153, and 180 compared to controls, whereas PCB concentrations in males were not significantly different between control and Parkinson's disease groups. In a separate population of women (Nun Study) who had no clinical signs or symptoms of PD, elevated concentrations total PCB and congeners 138, 153 and 180 were also observed in post-mortem brain tissue exhibiting moderate nigral depigmentation compared to subjects with mild or no depigmentation. These quantitative data demonstrate an association between brain PCB levels and Parkinson's disease-related pathology. Furthermore, these data support epidemiological and laboratory studies reporting a link between PCB exposure and an increased risk for Parkinson's disease, including greater susceptibility of females. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Association between polychlorinated biphenyls and Parkinson’s disease neuropathology

PubMed Central

Hatcher-Martin, Jaime M.; Gearing, Marla; Steenland, Kyle; Levey, Allan I.; Miller, Gary W.; Pennell, Kurt D.

2012-01-01

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are synthetic chemicals primarily used as coolants and insulators in electrical equipment. Although banned for several decades, PCBs continue to exist in the environment because of their long half-life, continued presence in items produced before the ban, and poor disposal practices. Epidemiological and experimental studies have identified exposure to PCBs as a potential risk factor for Parkinson’s disease, perhaps more so in females. The objective of this work was to examine the association between PCB levels in post-mortem human brain tissue and the diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease, as well as the degree of nigral depigmentation. We also sought to determine if this association was more significant when patients were stratified by sex. Post-mortem brain samples from control patients and those diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease were obtained from the Emory University Brain Bank and from the Nun Study. Concentrations of eight prevalent PCB congeners were extracted from post-mortem brain tissue and analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. PCB congeners 153 and 180 were significantly elevated in the brains of Parkinson’s disease patients. When stratified by sex, the female Parkinson’s disease group demonstrated significantly elevated concentrations of total PCBs and specifically congeners 138, 153, and 180 compared to controls, whereas PCB concentrations in males were not significantly different between control and Parkinson’s disease groups. In a separate population of women (Nun Study) who had no clinical signs or symptoms of PD, elevated concentrations total PCB and congeners 138, 153 and 180 were also observed in post-mortem brain tissue exhibiting moderate nigral depigmentation compared to subjects with mild or no depigmentation. These quantitative data demonstrate an association between brain PCB levels and Parkinson’s disease-related pathology. Furthermore, these data support epidemiological and laboratory studies reporting a link between PCB exposure and an increased risk for Parkinson’s disease, including greater susceptibility of females. PMID:22906799

Impact of low level of high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol sampled in overnight fasting state on the clinical outcomes in patients with acute myocardial infarction (difference between ST-segment and non-ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction).

PubMed

Ji, Mi Seon; Jeong, Myung Ho; Ahn, Young Keun; Kim, Young Jo; Chae, Shung Chull; Hong, Taek Jong; Seong, In Whan; Chae, Jei Keon; Kim, Chong Jin; Cho, Myeong Chan; Rha, Seung-Woon; Bae, Jang Ho; Seung, Ki Bae; Park, Seung Jung

2015-01-01

Despite good treatment, there are residual risks in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients, and low level of high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL) has drawn attention as a possible cause. However, the impact of low HDL on ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) compared with non-ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) is not clear. Our aim was to evaluate the impact of low HDL on clinical outcomes in patients with STEMI or NSTEMI. We included 9270 AMI patients undergoing successful percutaneous coronary intervention. They were grouped into STEMI and NSTEMI, and subdivided into two groups according to HDL level sampled in overnight fasting state. Primary end point was in-hospital death. Secondary end point was a composite of major adverse cardiac events (MACE) in hospital survivors during one-year follow-up. In the STEMI population, low HDL group showed significantly higher in-hospital death rate [4.6% vs. 1.4%, hazard ratio (HR): 2.380, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.143-4.956, p=0.020] than normal HDL group. In NSTEMI population, there was no significant difference between two groups (1.8% vs. 0.9%, HR: 1.231, 95% CI: 0.649-2.335, p=0.525), but in subgroup analysis, very low HDL subgroup showed higher in-hospital mortality rate compared with normal HDL group (4.0% vs. 0.9%, respectively, p=0.009). In 12-month MACE rates, there was no significant difference between two groups in both populations. Low HDL was associated with significantly higher risk of in-hospital mortality in STEMI patients, but not in NSTEMI patients. Thus, more aggressive treatment should be considered in STEMI patients with low HDL. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Facial arthralgia and myalgia: can they be differentiated by trigeminal sensory assessment?

PubMed

Eliav, Eli; Teich, Sorin; Nitzan, Dorit; El Raziq, Daood Abid; Nahlieli, Oded; Tal, Michael; Gracely, Richard H; Benoliel, Rafael

2003-08-01

Heat and electrical detection thresholds were assessed in 72 patients suffering from painful temporomandibular disorder. Employing widely accepted criteria, 44 patients were classified as suffering from temporomandibular joint (TMJ) arthralgia (i.e. pain originating from the TMJ) and 28 from myalgia (i.e. pain originating from the muscles of mastication). Electrical stimulation was employed to assess thresholds in large myelinated nerve fibers (Abeta) and heat application to assess thresholds in unmyelinated nerve fibers (C). The sensory tests were performed bilaterally in three trigeminal nerve sites: the auriculotemporal nerve territory (AUT), buccal nerve territory (BUC) and the mental nerve territory (MNT). In addition, 22 healthy asymptomatic controls were examined. A subset of ten arthralgia patients underwent arthrocentesis and electrical detection thresholds were additionally assessed following the procedure. Electrical detection threshold ratios were calculated by dividing the affected side by the control side, thus reduced ratios indicate hypersensitivity of the affected side. In control patients, ratios obtained at all sites did not vary significantly from the expected value of 'one' (mean with 95% confidence intervals; AUT, 1:0.95-1.06; BUC, 1.01:0.93-1.11; MNT, 0.97:0.88-1.05, all areas one sample analysis P>0.05). In arthralgia patients mean ratios (+/-SEM) obtained for the AUT territory (0.63+/-0.03) were significantly lower compared to ratios for the MNT (1.02+/-0.03) and BUC (0.96+/-0.04) territories (repeated measures analysis of variance (RANOVA), P<0.0001) and compared to the AUT ratios in myalgia (1.27+/-0.09) and control subjects (1+/-0.06, ANOVA, P<0.0001). In the myalgia group the electrical detection threshold ratios in the AUT territory were significantly elevated compared to the AUT ratios in control subjects (Dunnett test, P<0.05), but only approached statistical significance compared to the MNT (1.07+/-0.04) and BUC (1.11+/-0.06) territories (RANOVA, F(2,27)=3.12, P=0.052). There were no significant differences between and within the groups for electrical detection threshold ratios in the BUC and MNT nerve territories, and for the heat detection thresholds in all tested sites. Following arthrocentesis, mean electrical detection threshold ratios in the AUT territory were significantly elevated from 0.64+/-0.06 to 0.99+/-0.04 indicating resolution of the hypersensitivity (paired t-test, P=0.001). In conclusion, large myelinated fiber hypersensitivity is found in the skin overlying TMJs with clinical pain and pathology but is not found in controls. In patients with muscle-related facial pain there was significant elevation of the electrical detection threshold in the AUT region.

Musculoskeletal safety outcomes of patients receiving daptomycin with HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors.

PubMed

Bland, Christopher M; Bookstaver, P Brandon; Lu, Z Kevin; Dunn, Brianne L; Rumley, Kathey Fulton

2014-10-01

Daptomycin, a cyclic lipopeptide antibiotic, and 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors (statins) are commonly administered in the inpatient setting and are associated with creatine phosphokinase (CPK) elevations, myalgias, and muscle weakness. Safety data for coadministration of daptomycin with statins are limited. To determine the safety of coadministration of daptomycin with statin therapy, a multicenter, retrospective, observational study was performed at 13 institutions in the Southeastern United States. Forty-nine adult patients receiving statins concurrently with daptomycin were compared with 171 patients receiving daptomycin without statin therapy. Detailed information, including treatment indication and duration, infecting pathogen, baseline and subsequent CPK levels, and presence of myalgias or muscle complaints, was collected. Myalgias were noted in 3/49 (6.1%) patients receiving combination therapy compared with 5/171 (2.9%) of patients receiving daptomycin alone (P = 0.38). CPK elevations of >1,000 U/liter occurred in 5/49 (10.2%) patients receiving combination therapy compared to 9/171 (5.3%) patients receiving daptomycin alone (P = 0.32). Two of five patients experiencing CPK elevations of >1,000 U/liter in the combination group had symptoms of myopathy. Three patients (6.1%) discontinued therapy due to CPK elevations with concurrent myalgias in the combination group versus 6 patients (3.5%) in the daptomycin-alone group (P = 0.42). CPK levels and myalgias reversed upon discontinuation of daptomycin therapy. Overall musculoskeletal toxicity was numerically higher in the combination group but this result was not statistically significant. Further prospective study is warranted in a larger population. Copyright © 2014, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

Carbon dioxide exchange of buds and developing shoots of boreal Norway spruce exposed to elevated or ambient CO2 concentration and temperature in whole-tree chambers.

PubMed

Hall, Marianne; Räntfors, Mats; Slaney, Michelle; Linder, Sune; Wallin, Göran

2009-04-01

Effects of ambient and elevated temperature and atmospheric carbon dioxide concentration ([CO2]) on CO2 assimilation rate and the structural and phenological development of shoots during their first growing season were studied in 45-year-old Norway spruce trees (Picea abies (L.) Karst.) enclosed in whole-tree chambers. Continuous measurements of net assimilation rate (NAR) in individual buds and shoots were made from early bud development to late August in two consecutive years. The largest effect of elevated temperature (TE) was manifest early in the season as an earlier start and completion of shoot length development, and a 1-3-week earlier shift from negative to positive NAR compared with the ambient temperature (TA) treatments. The largest effect of elevated [CO2] (CE) was found later in the season, with a 30% increase in maximum NAR compared with trees in the ambient [CO2] treatments (CA), and shoots assimilating their own mass in terms of carbon earlier in the CE treatments than in the CA treatments. Once the net carbon assimilation compensation point (NACP) had been reached, TE had little or no effect on the development of NAR performance, whereas CE had little effect before the NACP. No interactive effects of TE and CE on NAR were found. We conclude that in a climate predicted for northern Sweden in 2100, current-year shoots of P. abies will assimilate their own mass in terms of carbon 20-30 days earlier compared with the current climate, and thereby significantly contribute to canopy assimilation during their first year.

Results of the Croatian Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Network for patients with ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction.

PubMed

Nikolić Heitzler, Vjeran; Babic, Zdravko; Milicic, Davor; Bergovec, Mijo; Raguz, Miroslav; Mirat, Jure; Strozzi, Maja; Plazonic, Zeljko; Giunio, Lovel; Steiner, Robert; Starcevic, Boris; Vukovic, Ivica

2010-05-01

The Republic of Croatia, with a gross domestic product per capita of US$11,554 in 2008, is an economically less-developed Western country. The goal of the present investigation was to prove that a well-organized primary percutaneous coronary intervention network in an economically less-developed country equalizes the prospects of all patients with acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction at a level comparable to that of more economically developed countries. We prospectively investigated 1,190 patients with acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction treated with primary PCI in 8 centers across Croatia (677 nontransferred and 513 transferred). The postprocedural Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction flow, in-hospital mortality, and incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (ie, mortality, pectoral angina, restenosis, reinfarction, coronary artery bypass graft, and cerebrovascular accident rate) during 6 months of follow-up were compared between the nontransferred and transferred subgroups and in the subgroups of older patients, women, and those with cardiogenic shock. In all investigated patients, the average door-to-balloon time was 108 minutes, and the total ischemic time was 265 minutes. Postprocedural Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction 3 flow was established in 87.1% of the patients, and the in-hospital mortality rate was 4.4%. No statistically significant difference was found in the results of treatment between the transferred and nontransferred patients overall or in the subgroups of patients >75 years, women, and those with cardiogenic shock. In conclusion, the Croatian Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Network has ensured treatment results of acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction comparable to those of randomized studies and registries of more economically developed countries. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Association of serum ferritin with metabolic syndrome and diabetes mellitus in the South Korean general population according to the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2008.

PubMed

Lee, Byung-Kook; Kim, Yangho; Kim, Young-Il

2011-10-01

We examined the association of serum ferritin levels with metabolic syndrome (MS) and diabetes mellitus in a representative sample of the adult South Korean population using data from the 2008 Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. We conducted a cross-sectional study of 6311 adults older than 20 years who participated in the 2008 Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Metabolic syndrome was defined as the presence of at least 3 of the following: elevated blood pressure, low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, elevated serum triglycerides, elevated plasma glucose, and abdominal obesity. Diabetes mellitus was defined as fasting glucose of at least 126 mg/dL. Insulin resistance was determined using the homeostasis model assessment estimate of insulin resistance. In a representative sample of the adult Korean population, MS was more prevalent in the highest quartile compared with the lowest quartile of serum ferritin concentrations in women following adjustments for age, education, smoking, alcohol intake, body mass index, aspartate aminotransferase, and alanine aminotransferase. Diabetes mellitus was more prevalent in the highest quartile compared with the lowest quartile of serum ferritin concentrations in premenopausal women and men. The geometric means of fasting insulin and insulin resistance determined using the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance in the fourth serum ferritin quartiles of postmenopausal women and men were significantly higher compared with those in the first quartile of the respective groups. The present study demonstrates that elevated serum ferritin concentrations are associated with an increased risk of MS and diabetes mellitus in a representative sample of the adult South Korean population. Copyright © 2011. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Characterization of the Differential Response of Endothelial Cells Exposed to Normal and Elevated Laminar Shear Stress

PubMed Central

White, Stephen J; Hayes, Elaine M; Lehoux, Stéphanie; Jeremy, Jamie Y; Horrevoets, Anton JG; Newby, Andrew C

2011-01-01

Most acute coronary events occur in the upstream region of stenotic atherosclerotic plaques that experience laminar shear stress (LSS) elevated above normal physiological levels. Many studies have described the atheroprotective effect on endothelial behavior of normal physiological LSS (approximately 15 dynes/cm2) compared to static or oscillatory shear stress (OSS), but it is unknown whether the levels of elevated shear stress imposed by a stenotic plaque would preserve, enhance or reverse this effect. Therefore we used transcriptomics and related functional analyses to compare human endothelial cells exposed to laminar shear stress of 15 (LSS15-normal) or 75 dynes/cm2 (LSS75-elevated). LSS75 upregulated expression of 145 and downregulated expression of 158 genes more than twofold relative to LSS15. Modulation of the metallothioneins (MT1-G, -M, -X) and NADPH oxidase subunits (NOX2, NOX4, NOX5, and p67phox) accompanied suppression of reactive oxygen species production at LSS75. Shear induced changes in dual specificity phosphatases (DUSPs 1, 5, 8, and 16 increasing and DUSPs 6 and 23 decreasing) were observed as well as reduced ERK1/2 but increased p38 MAP kinase phosphorylation. Amongst vasoactive substances, endothelin-1 expression decreased whereas vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and prostacyclin expression increased, despite which intracellular cAMP levels were reduced. Promoter analysis by rVISTA identified a significant over representation of ATF and Nrf2 transcription factor binding sites in genes upregulated by LSS75 compared to LSS15. In summary, LSS75 induced a specific change in behavior, modifying gene expression, reducing ROS levels, altering MAP kinase signaling and reducing cAMP levels, opening multiple avenues for future study. J. Cell. Physiol. 226: 2841–2848, 2011. © 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc. PMID:21302282

Comparative Proteomic Analysis of Two Uveitis Models in Lewis Rats.

PubMed

Pepple, Kathryn L; Rotkis, Lauren; Wilson, Leslie; Sandt, Angela; Van Gelder, Russell N

2015-12-01

Inflammation generates changes in the protein constituents of the aqueous humor. Proteins that change in multiple models of uveitis may be good biomarkers of disease or targets for therapeutic intervention. The present study was conducted to identify differentially-expressed proteins in the inflamed aqueous humor. Two models of uveitis were induced in Lewis rats: experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU) and primed mycobacterial uveitis (PMU). Differential gel electrophoresis was used to compare naïve and inflamed aqueous humor. Differentially-expressed proteins were separated by using 2-D gel electrophoresis and excised for identification with matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight (MALDI-TOF). Expression of select proteins was verified by Western blot analysis in both the aqueous and vitreous. The inflamed aqueous from both models demonstrated an increase in total protein concentration when compared to naïve aqueous. Calprotectin, a heterodimer of S100A8 and S100A9, was increased in the aqueous in both PMU and EAU. In the vitreous, S100A8 and S100A9 were preferentially elevated in PMU. Apolipoprotein E was elevated in the aqueous of both uveitis models but was preferentially elevated in EAU. Beta-B2-crystallin levels decreased in the aqueous and vitreous of EAU but not PMU. The proinflammatory molecules S100A8 and S100A9 were elevated in both models of uveitis but may play a more significant role in PMU than EAU. The neuroprotective protein β-B2-crystallin was found to decline in EAU. Therapies to modulate these proteins in vivo may be good targets in the treatment of ocular inflammation.

Comparative Proteomic Analysis of Two Uveitis Models in Lewis Rats

PubMed Central

Pepple, Kathryn L.; Rotkis, Lauren; Wilson, Leslie; Sandt, Angela; Van Gelder, Russell N.

2015-01-01

Purpose Inflammation generates changes in the protein constituents of the aqueous humor. Proteins that change in multiple models of uveitis may be good biomarkers of disease or targets for therapeutic intervention. The present study was conducted to identify differentially-expressed proteins in the inflamed aqueous humor. Methods Two models of uveitis were induced in Lewis rats: experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU) and primed mycobacterial uveitis (PMU). Differential gel electrophoresis was used to compare naïve and inflamed aqueous humor. Differentially-expressed proteins were separated by using 2-D gel electrophoresis and excised for identification with matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization–time of flight (MALDI-TOF). Expression of select proteins was verified by Western blot analysis in both the aqueous and vitreous. Results The inflamed aqueous from both models demonstrated an increase in total protein concentration when compared to naïve aqueous. Calprotectin, a heterodimer of S100A8 and S100A9, was increased in the aqueous in both PMU and EAU. In the vitreous, S100A8 and S100A9 were preferentially elevated in PMU. Apolipoprotein E was elevated in the aqueous of both uveitis models but was preferentially elevated in EAU. Beta-B2–crystallin levels decreased in the aqueous and vitreous of EAU but not PMU. Conclusions The proinflammatory molecules S100A8 and S100A9 were elevated in both models of uveitis but may play a more significant role in PMU than EAU. The neuroprotective protein β-B2–crystallin was found to decline in EAU. Therapies to modulate these proteins in vivo may be good targets in the treatment of ocular inflammation. PMID:26747776

Characterization of the differential response of endothelial cells exposed to normal and elevated laminar shear stress.

PubMed

White, Stephen J; Hayes, Elaine M; Lehoux, Stéphanie; Jeremy, Jamie Y; Horrevoets, Anton J G; Newby, Andrew C

2011-11-01

Most acute coronary events occur in the upstream region of stenotic atherosclerotic plaques that experience laminar shear stress (LSS) elevated above normal physiological levels. Many studies have described the atheroprotective effect on endothelial behavior of normal physiological LSS (approximately 15 dynes/cm(2)) compared to static or oscillatory shear stress (OSS), but it is unknown whether the levels of elevated shear stress imposed by a stenotic plaque would preserve, enhance or reverse this effect. Therefore we used transcriptomics and related functional analyses to compare human endothelial cells exposed to laminar shear stress of 15 (LSS15-normal) or 75 dynes/cm(2) (LSS75-elevated). LSS75 upregulated expression of 145 and downregulated expression of 158 genes more than twofold relative to LSS15. Modulation of the metallothioneins (MT1-G, -M, -X) and NADPH oxidase subunits (NOX2, NOX4, NOX5, and p67phox) accompanied suppression of reactive oxygen species production at LSS75. Shear induced changes in dual specificity phosphatases (DUSPs 1, 5, 8, and 16 increasing and DUSPs 6 and 23 decreasing) were observed as well as reduced ERK1/2 but increased p38 MAP kinase phosphorylation. Amongst vasoactive substances, endothelin-1 expression decreased whereas vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and prostacyclin expression increased, despite which intracellular cAMP levels were reduced. Promoter analysis by rVISTA identified a significant over representation of ATF and Nrf2 transcription factor binding sites in genes upregulated by LSS75 compared to LSS15. In summary, LSS75 induced a specific change in behavior, modifying gene expression, reducing ROS levels, altering MAP kinase signaling and reducing cAMP levels, opening multiple avenues for future study. Copyright © 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Role of CYP2E1 immunoglobulin G4 subclass antibodies and complement in pathogenesis of idiosyncratic drug-induced hepatitis.

PubMed

Njoku, Dolores B; Mellerson, Jenelle L; Talor, Monica V; Kerr, Douglas R; Faraday, Nauder R; Outschoorn, Ingrid; Rose, Noel R

2006-02-01

Idiosyncratic drug-induced hepatitis (IDDIH) is the third most common cause for acute liver failure in the United States. Previous studies have attempted to identify susceptible patients or early stages of disease with various degrees of success. To determine if total serum immunoglobulin subclasses, CYP2E1-specific subclass autoantibodies, complement components, or immune complexes could distinguish persons with IDDIH from others exposed to drugs, we studied persons exposed to halogenated volatile anesthetics, which have been associated with IDDIH and CYP2E1 autoantibodies. We found that patients with anesthetic-induced IDDIH had significantly elevated levels of CYP2E1-specific immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4) autoantibodies, while anesthetic-exposed healthy persons had significantly elevated levels of CYP2E1-specific IgG1 autoantibodies. Anesthetic IDDIH patients had significantly lower levels of C4a, C3a, and C5a compared to anesthetic-exposed healthy persons. C1q- and C3d-containing immune complexes were significantly elevated in anesthetic-exposed persons. In conclusion, our data suggest that anesthetic-exposed persons develop CYP2E1-specific IgG1 autoantibodies which may form detectable circulating immune complexes subsequently cleared by classical pathway activation of the complement system. Persons susceptible to anesthetic-induced IDDIH develop CYP2E1-specific IgG4 autoantibodies which form small, nonprecipitating immune complexes that escape clearance because of their size or by direct inhibition of complement activation.

A prospective echocardiographic evaluation of pulmonary hypertension in chronic hemodialysis patients in the United States: prevalence and clinical significance.

PubMed

Ramasubbu, Kumudha; Deswal, Anita; Herdejurgen, Cheryl; Aguilar, David; Frost, Adaani E

2010-10-05

Pulmonary hypertension (PH), a disease which carries substantial morbidity and mortality, has been reported to occur in 25%-45% of dialysis patients. No prospective evaluation of the prevalence or clinical significance of PH in chronic dialysis patients in the United States (US) has been undertaken. Echocardiograms were performed prospectively in chronic hemodialysis patients prior to dialysis at a single dialysis center. PH was defined as a tricuspid regurgitant jet ≥2.5 m/s and "more severe PH" as ≥3.0 m/s. Clinical outcomes recovered were all-cause hospitalizations and death at 12 months. In a cohort of 90 patients, 42 patients (47%) met the definition of PH. Of those, 18 patients (20%) met the definition of more severe PH. At 12 months, mortality was significantly higher in patients with PH (26%) compared with patients without PH (6%). All-cause hospitalizations were similar in patients with PH and without PH. Echocardiographic findings suggesting impaired left ventricular function and elevated pulmonary capillary wedge pressure were significantly associated with PH. This prospective cross-sectional study of a single dialysis unit suggests that PH may be present in nearly half of US dialysis patients and when present is associated with increased mortality. Echocardiographic findings demonstrate an association between elevated filling pressures, elevated pulmonary artery pressures, and higher mortality, suggesting that the PH may be secondary to diastolic dysfunction and compounded by volume overload.

A prospective echocardiographic evaluation of pulmonary hypertension in chronic hemodialysis patients in the United States: prevalence and clinical significance

PubMed Central

Ramasubbu, Kumudha; Deswal, Anita; Herdejurgen, Cheryl; Aguilar, David; Frost, Adaani E

2010-01-01

Background Pulmonary hypertension (PH), a disease which carries substantial morbidity and mortality, has been reported to occur in 25%–45% of dialysis patients. No prospective evaluation of the prevalence or clinical significance of PH in chronic dialysis patients in the United States (US) has been undertaken. Methods Echocardiograms were performed prospectively in chronic hemodialysis patients prior to dialysis at a single dialysis center. PH was defined as a tricuspid regurgitant jet ≥2.5 m/s and “more severe PH” as ≥3.0 m/s. Clinical outcomes recovered were all-cause hospitalizations and death at 12 months. Results In a cohort of 90 patients, 42 patients (47%) met the definition of PH. Of those, 18 patients (20%) met the definition of more severe PH. At 12 months, mortality was significantly higher in patients with PH (26%) compared with patients without PH (6%). All-cause hospitalizations were similar in patients with PH and without PH. Echocardiographic findings suggesting impaired left ventricular function and elevated pulmonary capillary wedge pressure were significantly associated with PH. Conclusion This prospective cross-sectional study of a single dialysis unit suggests that PH may be present in nearly half of US dialysis patients and when present is associated with increased mortality. Echocardiographic findings demonstrate an association between elevated filling pressures, elevated pulmonary artery pressures, and higher mortality, suggesting that the PH may be secondary to diastolic dysfunction and compounded by volume overload. PMID:21042428

Serum S100B is a useful surrogate marker for long-term outcomes in photochemically-induced thrombotic stroke rat models.

PubMed

Tanaka, Yu; Koizumi, Chie; Marumo, Toshiyuki; Omura, Tomohiro; Yoshida, Shigeru

2007-08-02

In recent years, serum S100B has been used as a secondary endpoint in some clinical trials, in which serum S100B has successfully indicated the benefits or harm done by the tested agents. Compared to clinical stroke studies, few experimental stroke studies report using serum S100B as a surrogate marker for estimating the long-term effects of neuroprotectants. This study sought to observe serum S100B kinetics in PIT stroke models and to clarify the association between serum S100B and both final infarct volumes and long-term neurological outcomes. Furthermore, to demonstrate that early elevations in serum S100B reflect successful neuroprotective treatment, a pharmacological study was performed with a non-competitive NMDA glutamate receptor antagonist, MK-801. Serum S100B levels were significantly elevated after PIT stroke, reaching peak values 48 h after the onset and declining thereafter. Single measurements of serum S100B as early as 48 h after PIT stroke correlated significantly with final infarct volumes and long-term neurological outcomes. Elevated serum S100B was significantly attenuated by MK-801, correlating significantly with long-term beneficial effects of MK-801 on infarct volumes and neurological outcomes. Our results showed that single measurements of serum S100B 48 h after PIT stroke would serve as an early and simple surrogate marker for long-term evaluation of histological and neurological outcomes in PIT stroke rat models.

Peripheral Blood Cells from Patients with Autoimmune Addison's Disease Poorly Respond to Interferons In Vitro, Despite Elevated Serum Levels of Interferon-Inducible Chemokines

PubMed Central

Bjånesøy, Trine; Hellesen, Alexander; Breivik, Lars; Bakke, Marit; Husebye, Eystein S.; Bratland, Eirik

2015-01-01

Autoimmune Addison's disease (AAD) is a disorder caused by an immunological attack on the adrenal cortex. The interferon (IFN)-inducible chemokine CXCL10 is elevated in serum of AAD patients, suggesting a peripheral IFN signature. However, CXCL10 can also be induced in adrenocortical cells stimulated with IFNs, cytokines, or microbial components. We therefore investigated whether peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from AAD patients display an enhanced propensity to produce CXCL10 and the related chemokine CXCL9, after stimulation with type I or II IFNs or the IFN inducer poly (I:C). Although serum levels of CXCL10 and CXCL9 were significantly elevated in patients compared with controls, IFN stimulated patient PBMC produced significantly less CXCL10/CXCL9 than control PBMC. Low CXCL10 production was not significantly associated with medication, disease duration, or comorbidities, but the low production of poly (I:C)-induced CXCL10 among patients was associated with an AAD risk allele in the phosphatase nonreceptor type 22 (PTPN22) gene. PBMC levels of total STAT1 and -2, and IFN-induced phosphorylated STAT1 and -2, were not significantly different between patients and controls. We conclude that PBMC from patients with AAD are deficient in their response to IFNs, and that the adrenal cortex itself may be responsible for the increased serum levels of CXCL10. PMID:25978633

Immune cell infiltration in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and patient outcome: a retrospective study.

PubMed

Schneider, Karolin; Marbaix, Etienne; Bouzin, Caroline; Hamoir, Marc; Mahy, Pierre; Bol, Vanesa; Grégoire, Vincent

2018-03-01

Human papillomavirus (HPV) prevalence in oropharynx squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) is on the rise. HPV-linked OPSCCs represent a distinct clinical entity with a better treatment response and patient survival compared to tumors not linked to HPV. An emerging role in treatment response has been attributed to immune cell infiltration in human tumors. In this study, we investigated immune cell infiltration in human SCC of the head and neck region and its relation to overall survival after treatment with surgery (with or without radiotherapy) or concomitant chemo (or cetuximab)-radiotherapy. Paraffin-embedded tumor samples of 136 patients with SCC of the larynx, hypopharynx, oral cavity and oropharynx were processed for immunohistochemical detection of CD3 + T-cells, CD8 + cytotoxic T-cells, CD20 + B-cells and CD163 + M2 macrophages within the tumor infiltrated area. Clinico-pathological data were analyzed as a function of tumor location and p16-status. Immune cell infiltration was represented as stained area on the whole tumor infiltrated area, compared for the different tumor locations and correlated to patient survival. Patients with oropharynx tumors expressing significant p16 levels (p16-sg) had a 5-year overall survival of 85% compared to 43% for patients with no significant p16 (p16-ns) expression (HR: 0.3 - 95% CI: 0.1-0.6). Median immune cell infiltration (T- and B-lymphocytes) was significantly elevated in p16-sg oropharyngeal tumors, compared to p16-ns oropharyngeal tumors and to all other head and neck tumor locations. No difference in CD163 + macrophage infiltration was observed across the different patient groups. In the whole population, a high infiltration by CD3 + T-lymphocytes was associated to a significantly (p = .03; HR: 0.6, 95% CI: 0.4-0.97) better overall survival. Oropharynx cancer with significant p16 expression showed an increased overall survival and elevated T- and B-lymphocyte infiltration, which suggests a prognostic relevance of immune cell infiltration.

Distribution of trace metals in anchialine caves of Adriatic Sea, Croatia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cuculić, Vlado; Cukrov, Neven; Kwokal, Željko; Mlakar, Marina

2011-11-01

This study presents results of the first comprehensive research on ecotoxic trace metals (Cd, Pb, Cu and Zn) in aquatic anchialine ecosystems. Data show the influence of hydrological and geological characteristics on trace metals in highly stratified anchialine water columns. Distribution of Cd, Pb, Cu and Zn in two anchialine water bodies, Bjejajka Cave and Lenga Pit in the Mljet National park, Croatia were investigated seasonally from 2006 to 2010. Behaviour and concentrations of dissolved and total trace metals in stratified water columns and metal contents in sediment, carbonate rocks and soil of the anchialine environment were evaluated. Trace metals and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) concentrations in both anchialine water columns were significantly elevated compared to adjacent seawater. Zn and Cu concentrations were the highest in the Lenga Pit water column and sediment. Elevated concentrations of Zn, Pb and Cu in Bjejajka Cave were mainly terrigenous. Significantly elevated concentrations of cadmium (up to 0.3 μg L -1) were found in the water column of Bjejajka cave, almost two orders of magnitude higher compared to nearby surface seawater. Laboratory analysis revealed that bat guano was the major source of cadmium in Bjejajka Cave. Cadmium levels in Lenga Pit, which lacks accumulations of bat guano, were 20-fold lower. Moreover, low metal amounts in carbonate rocks in both caves, combined with mineral leaching experiments, revealed that carbonates play a minor role as a source of metals in both water columns. We observed two types of vertical distribution pattern of cadmium in the stratified anchialine Bjejajka Cave water column. At lower salinities, non-conservative behaviour was characterized by strong desorption and enrichment of dissolved phase while, at salinities above 20, Cd behaved conservatively and its dissolved concentration decreased. Conservative behaviour of Cu, Pb, Zn and DOC was observed throughout the water column. After heavy rains, Cd showed reduced concentration and uniform vertical distribution, suggesting a non-terrestrial origin. Under the same conditions, concentrations of total and dissolved Pb, Cu, Zn and DOC were significantly elevated. Variations of trace metal vertical distributions in anchialine water columns were caused by large inputs of fresh water (extraordinary rainy events), and were not influenced by seasonal changes.

Candidate's thesis: Platelet-activating factor-induced hearing loss: mediated by nitric oxide?

PubMed

Rhee, Chung-Ku

2003-12-01

Platelet-activating factor (PAF)in middle ear effusion is thought to induce hearing loss. The purpose of this study is to investigate the role of nitric oxide (NO) in the mechanism of PAF-induced hearing loss by studying the effects of PAF application on the round window membrane (RWM) with and without PAF-antagonist NO-blocker. Longitudinal study on randomized guinea pigs using PAF to induce hearing loss. METHODS Guinea pigs were divided into four groups: PBS, PAF, PAF-antagonist, and L-NAME. The PBS group received phosphate buffered saline (PBS) and the PAF groups received 10, 20, and 40 microg of PAF soaked into gelfoam and placed on the RWM. PAF-antagonist (WEB 2170) and NOS inhibitor NG-nitro-l-arginine-methylester (L-NAME) were injected intraperitoneally prior to PAF 20 microg application on the RWM. The following three tests were performed on each animal group: Hearing was tested with an auditory brainstem response (ABR) test over 24 hours. At the end of 24 hours, cochlear hair cells were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and immunohistochemistry was carried out on the cochlea to test the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). The PAF group developed significant elevation of ABR threshold and cochlear hair cell damage in the SEM group as compared with the PBS control group. The PAF-antagonist (WEB 2170) and the L-NAME groups did not show significant elevation of ABR threshold and cochlear hair cell damage compared with the group administered PAF 20 microg, but in the PAF-antagonist group, the elevation of ABR threshold was significant compared with that of the PBS control group, whereas it was not significant compared with the PBS group in the L-NAME group. Strong expression of iNOS on cochlea was observed in the PAF group and lighter expression was seen in PBS, WEB 2170, and L-NAME groups. This study demonstrated that PAF placed on the RWM induced hearing loss and cochlear hair cell damage. The PAF-antagonists and L-NAME prevented the PAF-induced hearing loss and inhibited iNOS expression in the cochlea. These findings suggest that the PAF-induced hearing loss caused by cochlear hair cell damage may have been mediated by NO. PAF-antagonists and L-NAME may have future therapeutic implications in preventing sensorineural hearing loss associated with chronic otitis media. The results of this study have significant potential clinical application.

Diabetes-related risk factors across Hispanic subgroups in the Hispanic health and nutritional examination survey (1982-1984).

PubMed

Aponte, Judith

2009-01-01

The Hispanic Health and Nutritional Examination Survey (HHANES) was utilized to examine diabetes-related risk factor variables between and among 3 Hispanic subgroups. The study design that was conducted was descriptive using the HHANES secondary data set. The sample included individuals between 20 and 74 years of age, self-identified as Mexican American, Puerto Rican, and/or Cuban American and had been told by a doctor that they had diabetes. The 5 diabetes-related risk factor variables were obesity measured by body mass index (BMI), hypertension by systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), hyperlipidemia by cholesterol and triglyceride levels, renal insufficiency by blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and creatinine and fasting plasma glucose. This study demonstrates significant differences between specific subgroups through chi-square. SBP in Cuban Americans was significantly higher than that of Puerto Ricans (28.39 mmHg) and of Mexican Americans (25.94 mmHg). Cuban Americans also had significantly higher cholesterol values than Mexican Americans (88.49 mg/dL) and Puerto Ricans (84.49 mg/dL). The only significant difference for triglyceride was between Mexican Americans and Puerto Ricans (37.25 mg/dL). For BUN, there were significant differences when Cuban Americans (9.06 mg/dL) and Mexican Americans (2.20 mg/dL) were separately compared from Puerto Ricans, and Cuban Americans had significantly higher creatinine values than Puerto Ricans (0.38 mg/dL) and Mexican Americans (0.25 mg/dL). Through linear regression, significant differences for the association of each diabetes-related risk factor and the risk for diabetes complications were computed for each subgroup. For Mexican Americans and Puerto Ricans there were significant differences in overweight BMI (25.0-29.9 kg/m2) and obesity (> or =30.0 kg/m2); for Mexican Americans, Puerto Ricans and Cuban Americans in elevated SBP (130-139 mmHg) or elevated DBP (80-89 mmHg), for high SBP (> or =140 mmHg) or high DBP (> or =90 mmHg), and for high glucose (> or =126 mg/dL); and for Mexican Americans in elevated triglyceride (> or =150 mg/dL), elevated BUN (> or =21 mg/dL), and elevated creatinine (> or =1.5 mg/dL). The findings of this study will add to the diabetes and Hispanic literature highlighting the need to evaluate Hispanic subgroups in future health behavior and outcomes research.

Carbon source-sink limitations differ between two species with contrasting growth strategies.

PubMed

Burnett, Angela C; Rogers, Alistair; Rees, Mark; Osborne, Colin P

2016-11-01

Understanding how carbon source and sink strengths limit plant growth is a critical knowledge gap that hinders efforts to maximize crop yield. We investigated how differences in growth rate arise from source-sink limitations, using a model system comparing a fast-growing domesticated annual barley (Hordeum vulgare cv. NFC Tipple) with a slow-growing wild perennial relative (Hordeum bulbosum). Source strength was manipulated by growing plants at sub-ambient and elevated CO 2 concentrations ([CO 2 ]). Limitations on vegetative growth imposed by source and sink were diagnosed by measuring relative growth rate, developmental plasticity, photosynthesis and major carbon and nitrogen metabolite pools. Growth was sink limited in the annual but source limited in the perennial. RGR and carbon acquisition were higher in the annual, but photosynthesis responded weakly to elevated [CO 2 ] indicating that source strength was near maximal at current [CO 2 ]. In contrast, photosynthetic rate and sink development responded strongly to elevated [CO 2 ] in the perennial, indicating significant source limitation. Sink limitation was avoided in the perennial by high sink plasticity: a marked increase in tillering and root:shoot ratio at elevated [CO 2 ], and lower non-structural carbohydrate accumulation. Alleviating sink limitation during vegetative development could be important for maximizing growth of elite cereals under future elevated [CO 2 ]. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Associated with Statin Use: A Disproportionality Analysis of the FDA's Adverse Event Reporting System.

PubMed

Golomb, Beatrice A; Verden, Abril; Messner, Alexis K; Koslik, Hayley J; Hoffman, Keith B

2018-04-01

Apparent elevations in reporting of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)-like conditions associated with statin use have been previously described from data obtained via US and European databases. The aim of this study was to examine US FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) data to compare reporting odds ratios (RORs) of ALS and ALS-like conditions between statins and other drugs, for each statin agent. We assessed for disproportional rates of reported ALS and ALS-related conditions for each statin agent separately by using the ROR formula. FAERS data were analyzed through September 2015. RORs for ALS were elevated for all statins, with elevations possibly stronger for lipophilic statins. RORs ranged from 9.09 (6.57-12.6) and 16.2 (9.56-27.5) for rosuvastatin and pravastatin (hydrophilic) to 17.0 (14.1-20.4), 23.0 (18.3-29.1), and 107 (68.5-167) for atorvastatin, simvastatin, and lovastatin (lipophilic), respectively. For simvastatin, an ROR of 57.1 (39.5-82.7) was separately present for motor neuron disease. These findings extend previous evidence showing that significantly elevated ALS reporting extends to individual statin agents, and add to concerns about potential elevated occurrence of ALS-like conditions in association with statin usage.

Surface elevation change on ice caps in the Qaanaaq region, northwestern Greenland

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saito, Jun; Sugiyama, Shin; Tsutaki, Shun; Sawagaki, Takanobu

2016-09-01

A large number of glaciers and ice caps (GICs) are distributed along the Greenland coast, physically separated from the ice sheet. The total area of these GICs accounts for 5% of Greenland's ice cover. Melt water input from the GICs to the ocean substantially contributed to sea-level rise over the last century. Here, we report surface elevation changes of six ice caps near Qaanaaq (77°28‧N, 69°13‧W) in northwestern Greenland based on photogrammetric analysis of stereo pair satellite images. We processed the images with a digital map plotting instrument to generate digital elevation models (DEMs) in 2006 and 2010 with a grid resolution of 500 m. Generated DEMs were compared to measure surface elevation changes between 2006 and 2010. Over the study area of the six ice caps, covering 1215 km2, the mean rate of elevation change was -1.1 ± 0.1 m a-1. This rate is significantly greater than that previously reported for the 2003-2008 period (-0.6 ± 0.1 m a-1) for GICs all of northwestern Greenland. This increased mass loss is consistent with the rise in summer temperatures in this region at a rate of 0.12 °C a-1 for the 1997-2013 period.

The Relationship between Serum Bilirubin and Elevated Fibrotic Indices among HBV Carriers: A Cross-Sectional Study of a Chinese Population.

PubMed

Du, Min; Zhang, Shanshan; Xiao, Lin; Xu, Yanyan; Liu, Peiyi; Tang, Yuhan; Wei, Sheng; Xing, Mingyou; Miao, Xiaoping; Yao, Ping

2016-12-09

The study probed the association between bilirubin and hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and progression. A cross-sectional analysis of 28,500 middle aged and elderly Chinese participants was performed to analyze the differences of bilirubin in terms of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) positive or negative and the correlation between bilirubin and severity of hepatic fibrosis estimated by non-invasive indices. Bilirubin was significantly higher in the HBsAg (+) group than the HBsAg (-) group. Higher bilirubin levels were consistently associated with elevated liver fibrosis indices among HBsAg carriers. Compared with quartile 1 of total bilirubin (TBil), the multivariable-adjusted ORs (95% CIs) for elevated fibrosis indices of quartile 4 were 2.24 (95% CIs, 1.57-3.21) estimated by fibrosis 4 score (FIB-4) and 2.22 (95% CIs, 1.60-3.08) estimated by aspartate transaminase to platelet ratio index (APRI). In addition, direct bilirubin (DBil) had a stronger association with elevated liver fibrosis indices than did indirect bilirubin (IBil). Furthermore, the relationship between DBil and elevated fibrosis indices was more robust among participants who were female, overweight or had central fat distribution. These findings suggested that bilirubin levels, especially DBil, were independently associated with an increased risk of increased fibrosis indices.

Subperiosteal preparation using a new piezoelectric device: a histological examination.

PubMed

Stoetzer, Marcus; Magel, Anja; Kampmann, Andreas; Lemound, Juliana; Gellrich, Nils-Claudius; von See, Constantin

2014-01-01

Subperiosteal preparation using a periosteal elevator leads to disturbances of local immunohistochemistry and periosteal histology due to a microtrauma. Usually soft-tissue damage can be considerably reduced by using piezoelectric technology. For this reason, the effects of a novel piezoelectric device on immunohistochemistry and periosteal histology were examined and compared to conventional preparation of the periosteum using a periosteal elevator. Lewis rats were randomly assigned to one of five groups (n=50). Subperiosteal preparation was performed using either a piezoelectric device or a periosteal elevator. Immunohistochemical and histological analyses were performed immediately after preparation as well as three and eight days postoperatively. A statistical analysis of the histological colouring was performed offline using analysis of variance (ANOVA) on ranks (p<0.05). At all times, immunohistochemical and histological analysis demonstrated a significantly more homogenous tissue structure in the group of rats that underwent piezosurgery than in the group of rats that underwent treatment with a periosteal elevator. The use of a piezoelectric device for subperiosteal preparation is associated with more harmonious immunohistochemical and histological results for the periosteum than the use of a conventional periosteal elevator. As a result, piezoelectric devices can be expected to have a positive effect primarily on soft tissue, in particular of the periosteal as well as on surrounding tissues.

The response of a boreal deep-sea sponge holobiont to acute thermal stress.

PubMed

Strand, R; Whalan, S; Webster, N S; Kutti, T; Fang, J K H; Luter, H M; Bannister, R J

2017-05-22

Effects of elevated seawater temperatures on deep-water benthos has been poorly studied, despite reports of increased seawater temperature (up to 4 °C over 24 hrs) coinciding with mass mortality events of the sponge Geodia barretti at Tisler Reef, Norway. While the mechanisms driving these mortality events are unclear, manipulative laboratory experiments were conducted to quantify the effects of elevated temperature (up to 5 °C, above ambient levels) on the ecophysiology (respiration rate, nutrient uptake, cellular integrity and sponge microbiome) of G. barretti. No visible signs of stress (tissue necrosis or discolouration) were evident across experimental treatments; however, significant interactive effects of time and treatment on respiration, nutrient production and cellular stress were detected. Respiration rates and nitrogen effluxes doubled in responses to elevated temperatures (11 °C & 12 °C) compared to control temperatures (7 °C). Cellular stress, as measured through lysosomal destabilisation, was 2-5 times higher at elevated temperatures than for control temperatures. However, the microbiome of G. barretti remained stable throughout the experiment, irrespective of temperature treatment. Mortality was not evident and respiration rates returned to pre-experimental levels during recovery. These results suggest other environmental processes, either alone or in combination with elevated temperature, contributed to the mortality of G. barretti at Tisler reef.

Spatial and seasonal variations in mobile carbohydrates in Pinus cembra in the timberline ecotone of the Central Austrian Alps.

PubMed

Gruber, A; Pirkebner, D; Oberhuber, W; Wieser, G

2011-03-01

To test whether the altitudinal limit of tree growth is determined by carbons shortage or by a limitation in growth we investigated non structural carbohydrates and their components starch and total soluble sugars in Pinus cembra trees along an elevational gradient in the timberline ecotone of the Central Austrian Alps. NSC contents in needles, branches, stems, and coarse roots were measured throughout an entire growing season. At the tissue level NSC contents were not significantly more abundant in treeline trees as compared to trees at lower elevations. Along our 425 m elevational transect from the closed forest to the treeline we failed to find a stable elevational trend in the total NSC pool of entire trees and observed within season increases in the tree's NSC pool that can be attributed to an altitudinal increase in leaf mass as needles contained the largest NSC fraction of the whole tree NSC pool. Furthermore, whole tree NSC contents were positively correlated with net photosynthetic capacity. Although our observed NSC characteristics do not support the hypothesis that tree life at their upper elevational limit is determined by an insufficient carbon balance we found no consistent confirmation for the sink limitation hypothesis.

Spatial and seasonal variations in mobile carbohydrates in Pinus cembra in the timberline ecotone of the Central Austrian Alps

PubMed Central

Gruber, A.; Pirkebner, D.; Oberhuber, W.; Wieser, G.

2011-01-01

To test whether the altitudinal limit of tree growth is determined by carbons shortage or by a limitation in growth we investigated non structural carbohydrates and their components starch and total soluble sugars in Pinus cembra trees along an elevational gradient in the timberline ecotone of the Central Austrian Alps. NSC contents in needles, branches, stems, and coarse roots were measured throughout an entire growing season. At the tissue level NSC contents were not significantly more abundant in treeline trees as compared to trees at lower elevations. Along our 425 m elevational transect from the closed forest to the treeline we failed to find a stable elevational trend in the total NSC pool of entire trees and observed within season increases in the tree’s NSC pool that can be attributed to an altitudinal increase in leaf mass as needles contained the largest NSC fraction of the whole tree NSC pool. Furthermore, whole tree NSC contents were positively correlated with net photosynthetic capacity. Although our observed NSC characteristics do not support the hypothesis that tree life at their upper elevational limit is determined by an insufficient carbon balance we found no consistent confirmation for the sink limitation hypothesis. PMID:22003357

High-altitude diving in river otters: coping with combined hypoxic stresses.

PubMed

Crait, Jamie R; Prange, Henry D; Marshall, Noah A; Harlow, Henry J; Cotton, Clark J; Ben-David, Merav

2012-01-15

River otters (Lontra canadensis) are highly active, semi-aquatic mammals indigenous to a range of elevations and represent an appropriate model for assessing the physiological responses to diving at altitude. In this study, we performed blood gas analyses and compared blood chemistry of river otters from a high-elevation (2357 m) population at Yellowstone Lake with a sea-level population along the Pacific coast. Comparisons of oxygen dissociation curves (ODC) revealed no significant difference in hemoglobin-oxygen (Hb-O(2)) binding affinity between the two populations - potentially because of demands for tissue oxygenation. Instead, high-elevation otters had greater Hb concentrations (18.7 g dl(-1)) than sea-level otters (15.6 g dl(-1)). Yellowstone otters displayed higher levels of the vasodilator nitric oxide (NO), and half the concentration of the serum protein albumin, possibly to compensate for increased blood viscosity. Despite compensation in several hematological and serological parameters, theoretical aerobic dive limits (ADL) were similar between high-elevation and sea-level otters because of the lower availability of O(2) at altitude. Our results suggest that recent disruptions to the Yellowstone Lake food web could be detrimental to otters because at this high elevation, constraints on diving may limit their ability to switch to prey in a deep-water environment.

Development of rabbit embryos during a 96-h period of in vitro culture after superovulatory treatment under conditions of elevated ambient temperature.

PubMed

Cheng, H; Dooley, M P; Hopkins, S M; Anderson, L L; Yibchok-anun, S; Hsu, W H

1999-08-16

The effects of elevated ambient temperature on the response to exogenous gonadotropins were evaluated in female New Zealand White rabbits exposed to 33+/-1 degrees C (mean +/- SE) and 10-30% relative humidity (8 h/day) during a 5-day period. Does were treated with pFSH (0.3 mg/0.3 ml Standard Armour) twice daily during three consecutive days with a minimum interval of 8 h between injections. Six hours after the last FSH injection all does were removed from the experimental chamber, given hCG (25 IU/kg) and paired overnight. Nineteen hours after pairing, embryos were flushed from the reproductive tracts, evaluated, and subjected to in vitro culture during a 96-h period. The ovulatory responses to exogenous gonadotropins and fertilization rates did not differ significantly under conditions of elevated ambient temperature, whereas fewer blastocysts and increased number of degenerate embryos were observed after culture. We conclude that although hyperthermia was induced during exposure to elevated ambient temperature, it did not alter the ovulatory responses to gonadotropin treatment and plasma concentrations of FSH and LH compared with does in a thermoneutral environment. Exposure of donor rabbits to elevated ambient temperature before mating, however, increased embryonic degeneration.

UNMASKING MASKED HYPERTENSION: PREVALENCE, CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS, DIAGNOSIS, CORRELATES, AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS

PubMed Central

Peacock, James; Diaz, Keith M.; Viera, Anthony J.; Schwartz, Joseph E.; Shimbo, Daichi

2014-01-01

‘Masked hypertension’ is defined as having non-elevated clinic blood pressure (BP) with elevated out-of-clinic average BP, typically determined by ambulatory BP monitoring. Approximately 15–30% of adults with non-elevated clinic BP have masked hypertension. Masked hypertension is associated with increased risks of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality compared to sustained normotension (non-elevated clinic and ambulatory BP), which is similar to or approaching the risk associated with sustained hypertension (elevated clinic and ambulatory BP). The confluence of increased cardiovascular risk and a failure to be diagnosed by the conventional approach of clinic BP measurement makes masked hypertension a significant public health concern. However, many important questions remain. First, the definition of masked hypertension varies across studies. Further, the best approach in the clinical setting to exclude masked hypertension also remains unknown. It is unclear whether home BP monitoring is an adequate substitute for ambulatory BP monitoring in identifying masked hypertension. Few studies have examined the mechanistic pathways that may explain masked hypertension. Finally, scarce data are available on the best approach to treating individuals with masked hypertension. Herein, we review the current literature on masked hypertension including definition, prevalence, clinical implications, special patient populations, correlates, issues related to diagnosis, treatment, and areas for future research. PMID:24573133

Thiamine and its phosphate esters in relation to cardiometabolic risk factors in Saudi Arabs.

PubMed

Al-Daghri, Nasser M; Al-Attas, Omar S; Alkharfy, Khalid M; Alokail, Majed S; Abd-Alrahman, Sherif H; Sabico, Shaun

2013-09-23

Thiamine deficiency has suggested to be linked to several insulin-resistance complications. In this study, we aim to associate circulating thiamine levels among cardiometabolic parameters in an Arab cohort using a simple, sensitive, rapid and selective high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method that has recently been developed. A total of 236 randomly selected, consenting Saudi adult participants (166 males and 70 females) were recruited and screened for the presence of the metabolic syndrome (MetS) using the modified National Cholesterol Education Program-Adult Treatment Panel III definition. Blood thiamine and its derivatives were quantified using HPLC. A total of 140 participants (53.9%) had MetS. The levels of thiamine and its derivatives of those with MetS were not significantly different from those without. However, hypertensive subjects had significantly higher urinary thiamine (P = 0.03) as well as significantly lower levels of thiamine diphosphate (TDP) (P = 0.01) and total thiamine (P = 0.02) than the normotensive subjects, even after adjusting for age and body mass index (BMI). Furthermore, age- and BMI-matched participants with elevated blood glucose levels had significantly lower levels of thiamine monophosphate (P = 0.020), TDP (P < 0.001) and total thiamine (P < 0.001) and significantly elevated levels of urinary thiamine (P = 0.005) compared to normoglycemic participants. Low thiamine levels are associated with elevated blood glucose and hypertension in Saudi adults. Determination of thiamine status may be considered and corrected among patients with, or at high risk for, MetS, but the question whether thiamine deficiency correction translates to improved cardiometabolic status needs further longitudinal investigation.

NADPH oxidase activity and reactive oxygen species production in brain and kidney of adult male hypertensive Ren-2 transgenic rats.

PubMed

Vokurková, M; Rauchová, H; Řezáčová, L; Vaněčková, I; Zicha, J

2015-01-01

Hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) and rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM) play an important role in brain control of blood pressure (BP). One of the important mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of hypertension is the elevation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production by nicotine adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase. The aim of our present study was to investigate NADPH oxidase-mediated superoxide (O(2)(-)) production and to search for the signs of lipid peroxidation in hypothalamus and medulla oblongata as well as in renal medulla and cortex of hypertensive male rats transgenic for the murine Ren-2 renin gene (Ren-2 TGR) and their age-matched normotensive controls - Hannover Sprague Dawley rats (HanSD). We found no difference in the activity of NADPH oxidase measured as a lucigenin-mediated O(2)(-) production in the hypothalamus and medulla oblongata. However, we observed significantly elevated NADPH oxidase in both renal cortex and medulla of Ren-2 TGR compared with HanSD. Losartan (LOS) treatment (10 mg/kg body weight/day) for 2 months (Ren-2 TGR+LOS) did not change NADPH oxidase-dependent O(2)(-) production in the kidney. We detected significantly elevated indirect markers of lipid peroxidation measured as thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) in Ren-2 TGR, while they were significantly decreased in Ren-2 TGR+LOS. In conclusion, the present study shows increased NADPH oxidase activities in renal cortex and medulla with significantly increased TBARS in renal cortex. No significant changes of NADPH oxidase and markers of lipid peroxidation were detected in the studied brain regions.

Elevated mitochondrial genome variation after 50 generations of radiation exposure in a wild rodent.

PubMed

Baker, Robert J; Dickins, Benjamin; Wickliffe, Jeffrey K; Khan, Faisal A A; Gaschak, Sergey; Makova, Kateryna D; Phillips, Caleb D

2017-09-01

Currently, the effects of chronic, continuous low dose environmental irradiation on the mitochondrial genome of resident small mammals are unknown. Using the bank vole ( Myodes glareolus ) as a model system, we tested the hypothesis that approximately 50 generations of exposure to the Chernobyl environment has significantly altered genetic diversity of the mitochondrial genome. Using deep sequencing, we compared mitochondrial genomes from 131 individuals from reference sites with radioactive contamination comparable to that present in northern Ukraine before the 26 April 1986 meltdown, to populations where substantial fallout was deposited following the nuclear accident. Population genetic variables revealed significant differences among populations from contaminated and uncontaminated localities. Therefore, we rejected the null hypothesis of no significant genetic effect from 50 generations of exposure to the environment created by the Chernobyl meltdown. Samples from contaminated localities exhibited significantly higher numbers of haplotypes and polymorphic loci, elevated genetic diversity, and a significantly higher average number of substitutions per site across mitochondrial gene regions. Observed genetic variation was dominated by synonymous mutations, which may indicate a history of purify selection against nonsynonymous or insertion/deletion mutations. These significant differences were not attributable to sample size artifacts. The observed increase in mitochondrial genomic diversity in voles from radioactive sites is consistent with the possibility that chronic, continuous irradiation resulting from the Chernobyl disaster has produced an accelerated mutation rate in this species over the last 25 years. Our results, being the first to demonstrate this phenomenon in a wild mammalian species, are important for understanding genetic consequences of exposure to low-dose radiation sources.

Phenotypic Changes in Transgenic Tobacco Plants Overexpressing Vacuole-Targeted Thermotoga maritima BglB Related to Elevated Levels of Liberated Hormones.

PubMed

Nguyen, Quynh Anh; Lee, Dae-Seok; Jung, Jakyun; Bae, Hyeun-Jong

2015-01-01

The hyperthermostable β-glucosidase BglB of Thermotoga maritima was modified by adding a short C-terminal tetrapeptide (AFVY, which transports phaseolin to the vacuole, to its C-terminal sequence). The modified β-glucosidase BglB was transformed into tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) plants. We observed a range of significant phenotypic changes in the transgenic plants compared to the wild-type (WT) plants. The transgenic plants had faster stem growth, earlier flowering, enhanced root systems development, an increased biomass biosynthesis rate, and higher salt stress tolerance in young plants compared to WT. In addition, programed cell death was enhanced in mature plants. Furthermore, the C-terminal AFVY tetrapeptide efficiently sorted T. maritima BglB into the vacuole, which was maintained in an active form and could perform its glycoside hydrolysis function on hormone conjugates, leading to elevated hormone [abscisic acid (ABA), indole 3-acetic acid (IAA), and cytokinin] levels that likely contributed to the phenotypic changes in the transgenic plants. The elevation of cytokinin led to upregulation of the transcription factor WUSCHELL, a homeodomain factor that regulates the development, division, and reproduction of stem cells in the shoot apical meristems. Elevation of IAA led to enhanced root development, and the elevation of ABA contributed to enhanced tolerance to salt stress and programed cell death. These results suggest that overexpressing vacuole-targeted T. maritima BglB may have several advantages for molecular farming technology to improve multiple targets, including enhanced production of the β-glucosidase BglB, increased biomass, and shortened developmental stages, that could play pivotal roles in bioenergy and biofuel production.

Channel stability of Turkey Creek, Nebraska

USGS Publications Warehouse

Rus, David L.; Soenksen, Philip J.

1998-01-01

Channelization on Turkey Creek and its receiving stream, the South Fork Big Nemaha River, has disturbed the equilibrium of Turkey Creek and has led to channel-stability problems, such as degradation and channel widening, which pose a threat to bridges and land adjacent to the stream. As part of a multiagency study, the U.S. Geological Survey assessed channel stability at two bridge sites on upper and middle portions of Turkey Creek by analyzing streambed-elevation data for gradation changes, comparing recent cross-section surveys and historic accounts, identifying bank-failure blocks, and analyzing tree-ring samples. These results were compared to gradation data and trend results for a U.S. Geological Survey streamflow-gaging station near the mouth of Turkey Creek from a previous study. Examination of data on streambed elevations reveals that degradation has occurred. The streambed elevation declined 0.5 m at the upper site from 1967-97. The streambed elevation declined by 3.2 m at the middle site from 1948-97 and exposed 2 m of the pilings of the Nebraska Highway 8 bridge. Channel widening could not be verified at the two sites from 1967-97, but a historic account indicates widening at the middle site to be two to three times that of the 1949 channel width. Small bank failures were evident at the upper site and a 4-m-wide bank failure occurred at the middle site in 1987 according to tree ring analyses. Examination of streambed-elevation data from a previous study at the lower site reveals a statistically significant aggrading trend from 1958-93. Further examination of these data suggests minor degradation occurred until 1975, followed by aggradation.