Early Detection of Breast Cancer Using Posttranslationally Modified Biomarkers

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-09-01

goat antimouse IgG in PBS (Jackson Immuno Research Laboratory Inc., West Grove, PA) was added to each well. The slides were incubated for another 40...a concentration of 10 μg/mL; this was followed by incubation for 1 h at 37 °C. The secondary antibody, FITC-conjugated goat antimouse, was incubated...mIgG) was used as the negative control, and glycolipid-specific antibody anti-Globo-H (MBr1)14−16 (Enzo Life Sciences, Inc., Farm - ingdale, NY) was used

An Isolated TCR αβ Restricted by HLA-A*02:01/CT37 Peptide Redirecting CD8+ T Cells To Kill and Secrete IFN-γ in Response to Lung Adenocarcinoma Cell Lines.

PubMed

Flores-Villanueva, Pedro O; Ganachari, Malathesha; Guio, Heinner; Mejia, Jaime A; Granados, Julio

2018-04-15

Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related death among both men and women in the United States, where non-small cell lung cancer accounts for ∼85% of lung cancer. Lung adenocarcinoma (ADC) is the major histologic subtype. The presence of actionable mutations prompts the use of therapies designed to specifically address the deleterious effects of those cancer-driving mutations; these therapies have already shown promise in cases carrying those actionable mutations (∼30%). Innovative therapeutic approaches are needed for the treatment of 70% of patients suffering from lung ADC. Adoptive transfer of CD8 + T cells specific against cancer/testis (CT) Ags, whose protein expression is restricted to the gonads (testis and ovary) and cancerous cells, is an excellent alternative. In this study, we report the isolation of HLA-A*02:01/CT37 peptide-specific α and β TCR chains from a CD8 + T cell clone obtained from a patient suffering from lung ADC. We also report the development of an innovative CD3ζ construct. With those TCR chains and the engineered (modified) CD3ζ chain, we produced a construct that when transduced into CD8 + T cells is capable of redirecting transduced CD8 + T cell cytotoxic activity and IFN-γ secretion against peptide-pulsed autologous cells and HLA-A*02:01 -positive and CT37-expressing lung ADC cell lines. Our findings will launch the development of innovative adoptive transfer immunotherapies for the treatment of lung ADC, targeting the most prevalent HLA molecules and CT37 peptides restricted by these molecules. Copyright © 2018 by The American Association of Immunologists, Inc.

An Isolated TCR αβ Restricted by HLA-A*02:01/CT37 Peptide Redirecting CD8+ T Cells To Kill and Secrete IFN-γ in Response to Lung Adenocarcinoma Cell Lines

PubMed Central

Guio, Heinner

2018-01-01

Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related death among both men and women in the United States, where non–small cell lung cancer accounts for ∼85% of lung cancer. Lung adenocarcinoma (ADC) is the major histologic subtype. The presence of actionable mutations prompts the use of therapies designed to specifically address the deleterious effects of those cancer-driving mutations; these therapies have already shown promise in cases carrying those actionable mutations (∼30%). Innovative therapeutic approaches are needed for the treatment of 70% of patients suffering from lung ADC. Adoptive transfer of CD8+ T cells specific against cancer/testis (CT) Ags, whose protein expression is restricted to the gonads (testis and ovary) and cancerous cells, is an excellent alternative. In this study, we report the isolation of HLA-A*02:01/CT37 peptide–specific α and β TCR chains from a CD8+ T cell clone obtained from a patient suffering from lung ADC. We also report the development of an innovative CD3ζ construct. With those TCR chains and the engineered (modified) CD3ζ chain, we produced a construct that when transduced into CD8+ T cells is capable of redirecting transduced CD8+ T cell cytotoxic activity and IFN-γ secretion against peptide-pulsed autologous cells and HLA-A*02:01–positive and CT37-expressing lung ADC cell lines. Our findings will launch the development of innovative adoptive transfer immunotherapies for the treatment of lung ADC, targeting the most prevalent HLA molecules and CT37 peptides restricted by these molecules. PMID:29555781

Comparative study of the physical properties of core materials.

PubMed

Saygili, Gülbin; Mahmali, Sevil M

2002-08-01

This study was undertaken to measure physical properties of materials used for direct core buildups, including high-copper amalgam, visible light-cured resin composite, autocured titanium-containing composite, polyacid-modified composite, resin-modified glass-ionomer, and silver cermet cement. Compressive strength, diametral tensile strength, and flexural strength of six core materials of various material classes were measured for each material as a function of time up to 3 months at different storage conditions, using a standard specification test designed for the materials. Three different storage conditions (dry, humid, wet) at 37 degrees C were chosen. Materials were manipulated according to manufacturers' instructions for use as cores. Mean compressive, diametral tensile, and flexural strengths with associated standard deviations were calculated for each material. Multiple comparison and Newman-Keuls tests discerned many differences among materials. All materials were found to meet the minimum specification requirements, except in terms of flexural strength for amalgam after 1 hour and the silver cermet at all time intervals.

10 CFR 905.37 - Process.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 10 Energy 4 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Process. 905.37 Section 905.37 Energy DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY ENERGY PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT PROGRAM Power Marketing Initiative § 905.37 Process. Modified contractual language shall be required to place resource extensions under contract. Resource extensions and allocations...

Surface modification of biomaterials based on high-molecular polylactic acid and their effect on inflammatory reactions of primary human monocyte-derived macrophages: perspective for personalized therapy.

PubMed

Stankevich, Ksenia S; Gudima, Alexandru; Filimonov, Victor D; Klüter, Harald; Mamontova, Evgeniya M; Tverdokhlebov, Sergei I; Kzhyshkowska, Julia

2015-06-01

Polylactic acid (PLA) based implants can cause inflammatory complications. Macrophages are key innate immune cells that control inflammation. To provide higher biocompatibility of PLA-based implants with local innate immune cells their surface properties have to be improved. In our study surface modification technique for high-molecular PLA (MW=1,646,600g/mol) based biomaterials was originally developed and successfully applied. Optimal modification conditions were determined. Treatment of PLA films with toluene/ethanol=3/7 mixture for 10min with subsequent exposure in 0.001M brilliant green dye (BGD) solution allows to entrap approximately 10(-9)mol/cm(2) model biomolecules. The modified PLA film surface was characterized by optical microscopy, SERS, FT-IR, UV and TG/DTA/DSC analysis. Tensile strain of modified films was determined as well. The effect of PLA films modified with BGD on the inflammatory reactions of primary human monocyte-derived macrophages was investigated. We developed in vitro test-system by differentiating primary monocyte-derived macrophages on a coating material. Type 1 and type 2 inflammatory cytokines (TNFα, CCL18) secretion and histological biomarkers (CD206, stabilin-1) expression were analyzed by ELISA and confocal microscopy respectively. BGD-modified materials have improved thermal stability and good mechanical properties. However, BGD modifications induced additional donor-specific inflammatory reactions and suppressed tolerogenic phenotype of macrophages. Therefore, our test-system successfully demonstrated specific immunomodulatory effects of original and modified PLA-based biomaterials, and can be further applied for the examination of improved coatings for implants and identification of patient-specific reactions to implants. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Development and characterization of ferrihydrite-modified diatomite as a phosphorus adsorbent.

PubMed

Xiong, Wenhui; Peng, Jian

2008-12-01

A novel phosphorus adsorbent, ferrihydrite-modified diatomite was developed and characterized in this study. The ferrihydrite-modified diatomite was made through surface modification treatments including NaOH treatment and ferrihydrite deposition on raw diatomite. In the NaOH treatment, surface SiO(2) of diatomite was partially dissolved in the NaOH solution. The dissolved Si contributed to form the stable 2-line ferrihydrite which deposited into the macropores and mesopores of diatomite. Blocking macropores and larger mesopores of diatomite with 0.24g Fe/g of 2-line ferrihydrite resulted in a specific surface area of 211.1m(2)/g for the ferrihydrite-modified diatomite, which is 8.5-fold increase than the raw diatomite (24.77m(2)/g). The surface modification also increased the point of zero charge (pH(PZC)) values to 10 for the ferrihydrite-modified diatomite from 5.8 for the raw diatomite. Because of the increased surface area and surface charge, the maximum adsorption capacity of ferrihydrite-modified diatomite at pH 4 and pH 8.5 was increased from 10.2mgP/g and 1.7mgP/g of raw diatomite to 37.3mgP/g and 13.6mgP/g, respectively.

Role of acoustic radiation force impulse and shear wave velocity in prediction of preterm birth: a prospective study.

PubMed

Agarwal, Arjit; Agarwal, Shubhra; Chandak, Shruti

2018-06-01

Background Preterm birth is one of the important causes of neonatal morbidity where we rely on subjective criteria such as modified Bishop's scoring and contemporary sonographic measurement of cervical length. Acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) is a technological advancement in elastography that can be employed in prediction of cervical softening and preterm labor. Purpose To evaluate the role of ARFI technique and shear wave velocity (SWV) estimates as a predictor of preterm birth and its comparison with other clinical and sono-elastographic measures. Material and Methods Thirty-four pregnant women (gestation age = 28-37 weeks age) showing features suggestive of preterm labor were included and evaluated with modified Bishop's score, cervical length by ultrasound (US), ARFI to derive Elastography index (EI), and SWV of the cervix. The patients were later divided into two groups, using the clinical outcome of preterm or term delivery. Results Twenty patients delivered at term (gestational age > 37 weeks) and 14 were preterm. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves showed SWV with highest sensitivity and specificity (93% and 90%, respectively) for the prediction of preterm birth at a cutoff value of 2.83 m/s. EI and modified Bishop's score were comparable to each other, but were less sensitive techniques. Conclusion Elastographic assessment of antenatal cervix is a novel technique of virtual palpation of internal os and can be utilized as an objective criterion for preterm birth prediction.

29 CFR 2200.37 - Petitions for modification of the abatement period.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 29 Labor 9 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Petitions for modification of the abatement period. 2200.37... COMMISSION RULES OF PROCEDURE Pleadings and Motions § 2200.37 Petitions for modification of the abatement period. (a) Grounds for modifying abatement date. An employer may file a petition for modification of...

Modifications modulate anticodon loop dynamics and codon recognition of E. coli tRNA(Arg1,2).

PubMed

Cantara, William A; Bilbille, Yann; Kim, Jia; Kaiser, Rob; Leszczyńska, Grażyna; Malkiewicz, Andrzej; Agris, Paul F

2012-03-02

Three of six arginine codons are read by two tRNA(Arg) isoacceptors in Escherichia coli. The anticodon stem and loop of these isoacceptors (ASL(Arg1,2)) differs only in that the position 32 cytidine of tRNA(Arg1) is posttranscriptionally modified to 2-thiocytidine (s(2)C(32)). The tRNA(Arg1,2) are also modified at positions 34 (inosine, I(34)) and 37 (2-methyladenosine, m(2)A(37)). To investigate the roles of modifications in the structure and function, we analyzed six ASL(Arg1,2) constructs differing in their array of modifications by spectroscopy and codon binding assays. Thermal denaturation and circular dichroism spectroscopy indicated that modifications contribute thermodynamic and base stacking properties, resulting in more order but less stability. NMR-derived structures of the ASL(Arg1,2) showed that the solution structures of the ASLs were nearly identical. Surprisingly, none possessed the U-turn conformation required for effective codon binding on the ribosome. Yet, all ASL(Arg1,2) constructs efficiently bound the cognate CGU codon. Three ASLs with I(34) were able to decode CGC, whereas only the singly modified ASL(Arg1,2)(ICG) with I(34) was able to decode CGA. The dissociation constants for all codon bindings were physiologically relevant (0.4-1.4 μM). However, with the introduction of s(2)C(32) or m(2)A(37) to ASL(Arg1,2)(ICG), the maximum amount of ASL bound to CGU and CGC was significantly reduced. These results suggest that, by allowing loop flexibility, the modifications modulate the conformation of the ASL(Arg1,2), which takes one structure free in solution and two others when bound to the cognate arginyl-tRNA synthetase or to codons on the ribosome where modifications reduce or restrict binding to specific codons. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Specific radioisotopic assay for cholinesterase. Technical report, December 1987-March 1988

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

Talbot, B.G.; Anderson, D.R.; Harris, L.W.

1990-05-01

The radiometric method (I) for measuring ChE activity was modified to preclude the use of p-dioxane, a hazardous material. The modified procedure (II) uses 0.4 N perchloric acid (PCA), instead of p-dioxane, to denature the ChE and stop hydrolysis of 14C-acetylcholine (ACh). The unreacted substrate (ACh) is removed by cationic exchange resin suspended in water. The supernatant (acidic water solution) containing the product of hydrolysis, 14C-acetic acid, is mixed with nonhazardous scintillation cocktail and counted. The incubation mixture (37 degrees C) for II is similar to I and is composed of 0.1 ml of buffer-salt solution (pH 7.8), 0.1 mlmore » of guinea pig whole blood (WB)-water suspension and 0.1 ml of 3mM ACh solution.« less

Accuracy of molecular diagnostics in pemphigus and bullous pemphigoid: comparison of commercial and modified mosaic indirect immunofluorescence tests as well as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays.

PubMed

Gornowicz-Porowska, Justyna; Seraszek-Jaros, Agnieszka; Bowszyc-Dmochowska, Monika; Kaczmarek, Elżbieta; Pietkiewicz, Paweł; Bartkiewicz, Paweł; Dmochowski, Marian

2017-02-01

Pemphigus and bullous pemphigoid (BP) are identified by autoantibodies (abs) against desmoglein 1, 3 (DSG1/3) and BP180/BP230, respectively. A novel mosaic to indirect immunofluorescence (IIF) using purified BP180 recombinant proteins spotted on slide and transfected cells expressing BP230, DSG1, DSG3 is available. The commercial (IgG detection) and modified (IgG4 detection) mosaic for indirect immunofluorescence (IIFc - IIF commercial, IIFm - IIF modified) and IgG ELISAs were evaluated in pemphigus and bullous pemphigoid (BP) molecular diagnostics. To compare diagnostic accuracy of commercial (IgG detection) and modified (IgG4 detection) mosaic IIF assay and to examine the diagnostic value of ELISAs in relation to mosaic IIF in routine laboratory diagnostics of pemphigus and BP. Sera from 37 BP and 19 pemphigus patients were studied. Associations between tests were assessed using Fisher's exact test. There are associations between the positive/negative samples detected by IIFc with desmoglein1 (DSG1)/desmoglein3 (DSG3)/BP230 transfected cells and ELISAs and no association between anti-BP180 IgG detection by IIFc and ELISA. IIFm with DSG1 and DSG3 showed both 100% sensitivity and 100% and 78% specificity, respectively, and 100% and 83% positive predictive value in relation to IIFc. IIFm with BP230 had 87% specificity, 55% sensitivity, whereas IIFm with BP180 had a 100% sensitivity and 13% specificity in relation to IIFc. The IIFc with DSG1/DSG3/BP230 transfected cells, excluding BP180 spots, is an alternative method to ELISA in pemphigus/BP diagnostics. IgG4 antibodies, both pathogenically and diagnostically important, are inconsistently detectable with IIFm.

Implicit learning deficit in children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy: Evidence for a cerebellar cognitive impairment?

PubMed

Vicari, Stefano; Piccini, Giorgia; Mercuri, Eugenio; Battini, Roberta; Chieffo, Daniela; Bulgheroni, Sara; Pecini, Chiara; Lucibello, Simona; Lenzi, Sara; Moriconi, Federica; Pane, Marika; D'Amico, Adele; Astrea, Guja; Baranello, Giovanni; Riva, Daria; Cioni, Giovanni; Alfieri, Paolo

2018-01-01

This study aimed at comparing implicit sequence learning in individuals affected by Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy without intellectual disability and age-matched typically developing children. A modified version of the Serial Reaction Time task was administered to 32 Duchenne children and 37 controls of comparable chronological age. The Duchenne group showed a reduced rate of implicit learning even if in the absence of global intellectual disability. This finding provides further evidence of the involvement of specific aspects of cognitive function in Duchenne muscular dystrophy and on its possible neurobiological substrate.

Properties of Sulfur Concrete.

DTIC Science & Technology

1979-07-06

36 Thermal Contraction . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Summary of Sulfur Concrete (unmodified) . . . 39 Modified Sulfur Concrete............ 40...Compressive strength of PCPD- modified sulfur concrete 47 20 Functional connection between reaction time and temperature in making DCPD- modified sulfur concrete...39 MODIFIED SULFUR CONCRETE In the previous section it was shown that sulfur concrete exhibits several undesirable properties, such as 1 poor

Evaluation of prenatal risk factors for prediction of outcome in right heart lesions: CVP score in fetal right heart defects.

PubMed

Neves, Ana Luisa; Mathias, Leigh; Wilhm, Marilyn; Leshko, Jennifer; Linask, Kersti K; Henriques-Coelho, Tiago; Areias, José C; Huhta, James C

2014-09-01

To determine the prenatal variables predicting the risk of perinatal death in congenital right heart defects. Retrospective analysis of 28 fetuses with right heart defects was performed. Logistic regression analyses were performed to obtain odds ratios (OR) for the relationship between the risk of death and echocardiographic parameters. The parameters that correlated with the outcome were incorporated in an attempt to devise a disease-specific cardiovascular profile score. Fetal echocardiograms (143) from 28 patients were analyzed. The cardiovascular profile score predicted the risk of death. A lower right ventricle (RV) pressure was associated with mortality (OR 0.959; 95% confidence intervals (CI) 0.940-0.978). Higher peak aortic velocity through the aortic valve (OR 0.104; 95% CI 0.020-0.529) was associated with a better outcome. These cardiac function parameters were incorporated in a modified disease-specific CVP Score. Patients with a mean modified cardiovascular profile score of ≤ 6 were over 3.7 times more likely to die than those with scores of 7-10. The original Cardiovascular Profile Score predicted the risk of death in right heart defects. The modified score was not validated as a good prediction tool by this study. Fetal RV pressure estimate and peak aortic velocity can be used as independent prognostic predictors.

Epidemiological risk factors associated with inflammatory breast cancer subtypes.

PubMed

Atkinson, Rachel L; El-Zein, Randa; Valero, Vicente; Lucci, Anthony; Bevers, Therese B; Fouad, Tamer; Liao, Weiqin; Ueno, Naoto T; Woodward, Wendy A; Brewster, Abenaa M

2016-03-01

In this single-institution case-control study, we identified risk factors associated with inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) subtypes based on staining of estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR) and expression of human epidermal growth factor 2 (HER2neu) to determine distinct etiologic pathways. We identified 224 women with IBC and 396 cancer-free women seen at the MD Anderson Cancer Center. Multinomial logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95 % confidence intervals (CIs) for associations between breast cancer risk factors and the IBC tumor subtypes: luminal (ER+ and/or PR+/HER2neu-), HER2neu+ (any ER and PR, HER2neu+), and triple-negative (ER-/PR-/HER2neu-). In multivariable analysis, compared with women age ≥26 at first pregnancy, women age <26 had a higher risk of triple-negative IBC (OR 3.32, 95% CI 1.37-8.05). Women with a history of breast-feeding had a lower risk of triple-negative (OR 0.30; 95% CI 0.15-0.62) and luminal IBC (OR 0.35, 95% CI 0.18-0.68). A history of smoking was associated with an increased risk of luminal IBC (OR 2.37; 95% CI 1.24-4.52). Compared with normal-weight women, those who were overweight or obese (body mass index ≥25 kg/m(2)) had a higher risk of all three tumor subtypes (p < 0.01 for all subtypes). Overweight or obese status is important modifiable risk factor for IBC of any subtype. Modifiable risk factors, age at first pregnancy (≥26), breast-feeding, and smoking may be associated with specific IBC subtypes. These results highlight the importance of evaluating epidemiologic risk factors for IBC for the identification of subtype-specific prevention strategies.

Thermal performance trials on the habitability of private bushfire shelters: part 1

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Taylor, Nigel A. S.; Haberley, Benjamin J.; Hoyle, David J. R.

2015-08-01

This communication is the first of two in which specifications for private bushfire shelters were evaluated during human trials. The purpose of this investigation (series 1) was to test the hypothesis that shelters capable of maintaining the internal environment at, or below, a modified discomfort index of 39 °C would prevent a deep-body temperature elevation of >2 °C. This was tested over 96 trials during which eight men and eight women were exposed at rest (60 min) to three regulated shelter conditions satisfying that standard: 40 °C and 70 % relative humidity, 45 °C and 50 % relative humidity and 50 °C and 30 % relative humidity. Subjects were tested twice in each condition following exercise- and heat-induced dehydration (2 % body mass reduction) and pre-heating to each of two deep-body thermal states (37.5 and 38.5 °C). Participants presented well rested and euhydrated, and pre-treatments successfully achieved the thermal and hydration targets prior to exposure. Auditory canal temperatures declined as exposures commenced, with subsequent rises of >0.5 °C not evident within any trial. However, each increment in air temperature elicited a significant elevation in the respective within-trial mean auditory canal temperature (37.4, 37.7 and 37.9 °C) and heart rate (103, 116 and 122 beats.min-1) when subjects were moderately hyperthermic (all P < 0.05). Nevertheless, on average, subjects successfully defended deep-body temperature at levels significantly below those associated with heat illness, and it was concluded that this thermal specification for bushfire shelters appeared adequate, providing the physical characteristics of the internal air remained stable.

Thermal performance trials on the habitability of private bushfire shelters: part 1.

PubMed

Taylor, Nigel A S; Haberley, Benjamin J; Hoyle, David J R

2015-08-01

This communication is the first of two in which specifications for private bushfire shelters were evaluated during human trials. The purpose of this investigation (series 1) was to test the hypothesis that shelters capable of maintaining the internal environment at, or below, a modified discomfort index of 39 °C would prevent a deep-body temperature elevation of >2 °C. This was tested over 96 trials during which eight men and eight women were exposed at rest (60 min) to three regulated shelter conditions satisfying that standard: 40 °C and 70 % relative humidity, 45 °C and 50 % relative humidity and 50 °C and 30 % relative humidity. Subjects were tested twice in each condition following exercise- and heat-induced dehydration (2 % body mass reduction) and pre-heating to each of two deep-body thermal states (37.5 and 38.5 °C). Participants presented well rested and euhydrated, and pre-treatments successfully achieved the thermal and hydration targets prior to exposure. Auditory canal temperatures declined as exposures commenced, with subsequent rises of >0.5 °C not evident within any trial. However, each increment in air temperature elicited a significant elevation in the respective within-trial mean auditory canal temperature (37.4, 37.7 and 37.9 °C) and heart rate (103, 116 and 122 beats.min(-1)) when subjects were moderately hyperthermic (all P < 0.05). Nevertheless, on average, subjects successfully defended deep-body temperature at levels significantly below those associated with heat illness, and it was concluded that this thermal specification for bushfire shelters appeared adequate, providing the physical characteristics of the internal air remained stable.

49 CFR 37.13 - Effective date for certain vehicle specifications.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 49 Transportation 1 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Effective date for certain vehicle specifications. 37.13 Section 37.13 Transportation Office of the Secretary of Transportation TRANSPORTATION SERVICES FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES (ADA) General § 37.13 Effective date for certain vehicle specifications. (a) The vehicle lift specifications...

49 CFR 37.13 - Effective date for certain vehicle specifications.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 49 Transportation 1 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Effective date for certain vehicle specifications. 37.13 Section 37.13 Transportation Office of the Secretary of Transportation TRANSPORTATION SERVICES FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES (ADA) General § 37.13 Effective date for certain vehicle specifications. (a) The vehicle lift specifications...

49 CFR 37.13 - Effective date for certain vehicle specifications.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 49 Transportation 1 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Effective date for certain vehicle specifications. 37.13 Section 37.13 Transportation Office of the Secretary of Transportation TRANSPORTATION SERVICES FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES (ADA) General § 37.13 Effective date for certain vehicle specifications. (a) The vehicle lift specifications...

A Comparison of graphene hydrogels modified with single-walled/multi-walled carbon nanotubes as electrode materials for capacitive deionization.

PubMed

Cao, Jianglin; Wang, Ying; Chen, Chunyang; Yu, Fei; Ma, Jie

2018-05-15

Capacitive deionization (CDI) is a technology used to remove salt from brackish water, and it is an energy-saving, low-cost method compared with other methods, such as reverse osmosis, multi-stage ash distillation and electrodialysis. In this paper, three-dimensional (3D) graphene hydrogels modified with single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) or multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were synthesized by a one-step water bath method to increase the conductivity of materials and reduce the aggregation of the graphene sheets. The CDI performance differences between the two materials were compared and discussed. The results suggested that SWCNTs/rGO had a higher electrosorption capacity (48.73 mg/g) than MWCNTs/rGO, and this was attributed to its high specific surface area (308.37 m 2 /g), specific capacity (36.35 F/g), and smaller charge transfer resistance compared with those of the MWCNTs/rGO electrode. The results indicate SWCNTs/rGO is a promising and suitable material for CDI technology and we provide basic guidance for further CNTs/graphene composite research. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

37 CFR 1.822 - Symbols and format to be used for nucleotide and/or amino acid sequence data.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... base or modified or unusual amino acid may be presented in a given sequence as the corresponding unmodified base or amino acid if the modified base or modified or unusual amino acid is one of those listed... the Feature section. Otherwise, each occurrence of a base or amino acid not appearing in WIPO Standard...

Pregnancy Trimester-Specific Exposure to Ambient Air Pollution and Child Respiratory Health Outcomes in the First 2 Years of Life: Effect Modification by Maternal Pre-Pregnancy BMI.

PubMed

Soh, Shu-E; Goh, Anne; Teoh, Oon Hoe; Godfrey, Keith M; Gluckman, Peter D; Shek, Lynette Pei-Chi; Chong, Yap-Seng

2018-05-15

Prenatal exposure to air pollution is associated with childhood respiratory health; however, no previous studies have examined maternal pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) as a potential effect modifier. We investigated whether maternal pre-pregnancy BMI modified the association of trimester-specific air pollution divided into quartiles of exposure (Q1⁻4) on respiratory health in the Growing Up in Singapore towards healthy Outcomes (GUSTO) study ( n = 953) in 2-year-old children. For episodes of wheezing, children of overweight/obese mothers and who were exposed to particulate matter less than 2.5 μm (PM 2.5 ) in the first trimester had an adjusted incidence rate ratio (IRR) (95% confidence interval (CI)) of 1.85 (1.23⁻2.78), 1.76 (1.08⁻2.85) and 1.90 (1.10⁻3.27) in quartile (Q) 2⁻4, with reference to Q1. This association is seen in the second trimester for bronchiolitis/bronchitis. The risk of ear infection in the first year of life was associated with exposure to PM 2.5 in the first trimester with adjusted Odds Ratio (adjOR) (95% CI) = 7.64 (1.18⁻49.37), 11.37 (1.47⁻87.97) and 8.26 (1.13⁻60.29) for Q2⁻4, and similarly in the second year with adjOR (95% CI) = 3.28 (1.00⁻10.73) and 4.15 (1.05⁻16.36) for Q2⁻3. Prenatal exposure to air pollution has an enhanced impact on childhood respiratory health, and differs according to maternal pre-pregnancy BMI.

Pregnancy Trimester-Specific Exposure to Ambient Air Pollution and Child Respiratory Health Outcomes in the First 2 Years of Life: Effect Modification by Maternal Pre-Pregnancy BMI

PubMed Central

Soh, Shu-E; Goh, Anne; Teoh, Oon Hoe; Gluckman, Peter D.; Shek, Lynette Pei-Chi; Chong, Yap-Seng

2018-01-01

Prenatal exposure to air pollution is associated with childhood respiratory health; however, no previous studies have examined maternal pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) as a potential effect modifier. We investigated whether maternal pre-pregnancy BMI modified the association of trimester-specific air pollution divided into quartiles of exposure (Q1–4) on respiratory health in the Growing Up in Singapore towards healthy Outcomes (GUSTO) study (n = 953) in 2-year-old children. For episodes of wheezing, children of overweight/obese mothers and who were exposed to particulate matter less than 2.5 μm (PM2.5) in the first trimester had an adjusted incidence rate ratio (IRR) (95% confidence interval (CI)) of 1.85 (1.23–2.78), 1.76 (1.08–2.85) and 1.90 (1.10–3.27) in quartile (Q) 2–4, with reference to Q1. This association is seen in the second trimester for bronchiolitis/bronchitis. The risk of ear infection in the first year of life was associated with exposure to PM2.5 in the first trimester with adjusted Odds Ratio (adjOR) (95% CI) = 7.64 (1.18–49.37), 11.37 (1.47–87.97) and 8.26 (1.13–60.29) for Q2–4, and similarly in the second year with adjOR (95% CI) = 3.28 (1.00–10.73) and 4.15 (1.05–16.36) for Q2–3. Prenatal exposure to air pollution has an enhanced impact on childhood respiratory health, and differs according to maternal pre-pregnancy BMI. PMID:29762532

Hydrophilic-impermeable modified polyethylene terephthalate for selective endothelialization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chetouane, D.; Fafet, J. F.; Barbet, R.; Dieval, F.

2017-10-01

The aim of this study was to create a modified polyethylene terephthalate (PET) responding to vascular implants’ requirements, mainly with a surface promoting selective endothelialization. The surface alteration was carried out by hydrophilic functionalization in an alkaline solution with the presence of specific surfactant (TA). The carboxylic groups resulting from this reaction were quantified by colorimetric titration using bleu toluidine O dye (TBO). A single-sided coating process was then optimized to cover the PET surface by micro spherical structures’ polymeric layer. This coating provided to the PET surface high impermeability to the water under a pressure of 120 mmHg and enhanced its hydrophilic property. This spherical topography reduced the adhesion of Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSC) by 37% and inhibited their proliferation after 3 days by 50%. The hydrophilic functionalized PET (PET-TA) surface decreased the MSC adhesion by 50% and promoted HUVEC attachment with a number twice more important than the number of HUVEC adhered onto non treated-PET.

Modified Distribution-Free Goodness-of-Fit Test Statistic.

PubMed

Chun, So Yeon; Browne, Michael W; Shapiro, Alexander

2018-03-01

Covariance structure analysis and its structural equation modeling extensions have become one of the most widely used methodologies in social sciences such as psychology, education, and economics. An important issue in such analysis is to assess the goodness of fit of a model under analysis. One of the most popular test statistics used in covariance structure analysis is the asymptotically distribution-free (ADF) test statistic introduced by Browne (Br J Math Stat Psychol 37:62-83, 1984). The ADF statistic can be used to test models without any specific distribution assumption (e.g., multivariate normal distribution) of the observed data. Despite its advantage, it has been shown in various empirical studies that unless sample sizes are extremely large, this ADF statistic could perform very poorly in practice. In this paper, we provide a theoretical explanation for this phenomenon and further propose a modified test statistic that improves the performance in samples of realistic size. The proposed statistic deals with the possible ill-conditioning of the involved large-scale covariance matrices.

Tritium labeling of antisense oligonucleotides by exchange with tritiated water.

PubMed Central

Graham, M J; Freier, S M; Crooke, R M; Ecker, D J; Maslova, R N; Lesnik, E A

1993-01-01

We describe a simple, efficient, procedure for labeling oligonucleotides to high specific activity (< 1 x 10(8) cpm/mumol) by hydrogen exchange with tritiated water at the C8 positions of purines in the presence of beta-mercaptoethanol, an effective radical scavenger. Approximately 90% of the starting material is recovered as intact, labeled oligonucleotide. The radiolabeled compounds are stable in biological systems; greater than 90% of the specific activity is retained after 72 hr incubation at 37 degrees C in serum-containing media. Data obtained from in vitro cellular uptake experiments using oligonucleotides labeled by this method are similar to those obtained using 35S or 14C-labeled compounds. Because this protocol is solely dependent upon the existence of purine residues, it should be useful for radiolabeling modified as well as unmodified phosphodiester oligonucleotides. Images PMID:8367289

Growth and laccase production kinetics of Trametes versicolor in a stirred tank reactor.

PubMed

Thiruchelvam, A T; Ramsay, Juliana A

2007-03-01

White rot fungi are a promising option to treat recalcitrant organic molecules, such as lignin, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and textile dyes, because of the lignin-modifying enzymes (LMEs) they secrete. Because knowledge of the kinetic parameters is important to better design and operate bioreactors to cultivate these fungi for degradation and/or to produce LME(s), these parameters were determined using Trametes versicolor ATCC 20869 (ATCC, American Type Culture Collection) in a magnetic stir bar reactor. A complete set of kinetic data has not been previously published for this culture. Higher than previously reported growth rates with high laccase production of up to 1,385 U l(-1) occurred during growth without [Formula: see text] or glucose limitation. The maximum specific growth rate averaged 0.94 +/- 0.23 day(-1), whereas the maximum specific substrate consumption rates for glucose and ammonium were 3.37 +/- 1.16 and 0.15 +/- 0.04 day(-1), respectively. The maximum specific oxygen consumption rate was 1.63 +/- 0.36 day(-1).

Hydrogen peroxide bleaching induces changes in the physical properties of dental restorative materials: Effects of study protocols.

PubMed

Yu, Hao; Zhang, Chang-Yuan; Wang, Yi-Ning; Cheng, Hui

2018-03-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of study protocols on the effects of bleaching on the surface roughness, substance loss, flexural strength (FS), flexural modulus (FM), Weibull parameters, and color of 7 restorative materials. The test materials included 4 composite resins, 1 glass-ionomer cement, 1 dental ceramic, and 1 polyacid-modified composite. The specimens were randomly divided into 4 groups (n = 20) according to different study protocols: a bleaching group at 25°C (group 25B), a bleaching group at 37°C (group 37B), a control group at 25°C (group 25C), and a control group at 37°C (group 37C). The specimens in the bleaching group were treated with 40% hydrogen peroxide for 80 min at the respective environmental temperatures. The surface roughness, substance loss, FS, FM, and color of the specimens were measured before and after treatment. FS data were also subjected to Weibull analysis, which was used to estimate of the Weibull modulus (m) and the characteristic strength (σ 0 ). Surface roughness increased and significant color changes were observed for all tested specimens after bleaching treatment, except for the ceramic. After bleaching at 37°C, the polyacid-modified composite showed significantly reduced FS, FM, m, and σ 0 values in comparison to the control specimens stored at 37°C in whole saliva. Significant differences were also found between the 37B and 25B polyacid-modified composite groups in terms of surface roughness, FS, m, σ 0 , and color changes. Varying effects of bleaching on the physical properties of dental restorative materials were observed, and the influences of the study protocols on bleaching effects were found to be material-dependent. The influence of study protocols on the effects of bleaching on the surface roughness, flexural properties, and color of dental restorative materials are material-dependent and should be considered when evaluating the effects of bleaching on dental restorative materials. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Is cancer a pure growth curve or does it follow a kinetics of dynamical structural transformation?

PubMed

González, Maraelys Morales; Joa, Javier Antonio González; Cabrales, Luis Enrique Bergues; Pupo, Ana Elisa Bergues; Schneider, Baruch; Kondakci, Suleyman; Ciria, Héctor Manuel Camué; Reyes, Juan Bory; Jarque, Manuel Verdecia; Mateus, Miguel Angel O'Farril; González, Tamara Rubio; Brooks, Soraida Candida Acosta; Cáceres, José Luis Hernández; González, Gustavo Victoriano Sierra

2017-03-07

Unperturbed tumor growth kinetics is one of the more studied cancer topics; however, it is poorly understood. Mathematical modeling is a useful tool to elucidate new mechanisms involved in tumor growth kinetics, which can be relevant to understand cancer genesis and select the most suitable treatment. The classical Kolmogorov-Johnson-Mehl-Avrami as well as the modified Kolmogorov-Johnson-Mehl-Avrami models to describe unperturbed fibrosarcoma Sa-37 tumor growth are used and compared with the Gompertz modified and Logistic models. Viable tumor cells (1×10 5 ) are inoculated to 28 BALB/c male mice. Modified Gompertz, Logistic, Kolmogorov-Johnson-Mehl-Avrami classical and modified Kolmogorov-Johnson-Mehl-Avrami models fit well to the experimental data and agree with one another. A jump in the time behaviors of the instantaneous slopes of classical and modified Kolmogorov-Johnson-Mehl-Avrami models and high values of these instantaneous slopes at very early stages of tumor growth kinetics are observed. The modified Kolmogorov-Johnson-Mehl-Avrami equation can be used to describe unperturbed fibrosarcoma Sa-37 tumor growth. It reveals that diffusion-controlled nucleation/growth and impingement mechanisms are involved in tumor growth kinetics. On the other hand, tumor development kinetics reveals dynamical structural transformations rather than a pure growth curve. Tumor fractal property prevails during entire TGK.

[Research on the Kosmos biosatellites].

PubMed

Il'in, E A

1984-01-01

In the last decade the USSR has launched six biosatellites of the Cosmos series. The duration of the first flight was 6 days and of the five subsequent flights 18 to 21 days. The major goals of the flight studies were: investigation of adaptation of living systems to weightlessness, identification of the modifying effect of weightlessness on radiosensitivity, and detection of the biological effect of artificial gravity. The examinations were performed on 37 biological species, with most of them on rats. The exposure to weightlessness gave rise to moderate stress reactions and specific changes, particularly in the musculo-skeletal system (muscle atrophy, reduced bone strength, etc). Artificial gravity of 1 g generated inflight helped maintain the normal function of most physiological systems. The exposure of mammals (rats) to 137Ce irradiation did not reveal a modifying effect of weightlessness on radiation sickness. Distinct manifestations of the effects of weightlessness on intracellular processes were not observed. Dissimilar results were obtained with respect to the growth and development of living organisms in weightlessness.

Influence of a new surface modification of intraocular lenses with fluoroalkylsilan on the adherence of endophthalmitis-causing bacteria in vitro.

PubMed

Kienast, Antonia; Kämmerer, Regine; Weiss, Claudia; Klinger, Matthias; Menz, Dirk-Henning; Dresp, Joachim; Ohgke, Helge; Solbach, Werner; Laqua, Horst; Hoerauf, Hans

2006-09-01

Dynasilan is a fluoroalkylsilan that is able to interact with surface active centres on intraocular lenses (IOL), offering a new way for surface modification of different IOL materials. The purpose of this in vitro study was to investigate the influence of this new surface modification on the adherence of two typical endophthalmitis causing bacteria (Staphylococcus epidermidis, Propionibacterium acnes). In a pilot experiment, the effect of Dynasilan coating on the adherence of S. epidermidis was tested on glass slides. Forty-two Dynasilan-modified and 42 unmodified IOL (14 PMMA, 14 silicone and 14 hydrogel) were incubated at 37 degrees C in brain heart infusion broth (10(8) CFU/ml) with either S. epidermidis for 24 h or with P. acnes for 1 h. Subsequently, the adherent bacteria were resuspended using ultrasonification at 35 kHz for 3x45 s. After dilution series and incubation at 37 degrees C on Petri dishes for 24 h and 3 days, respectively, the colonies were counted. In the pilot experiment, a markedly lower number of adherent S. epidermidis was observed on Dynasilan-modified glass slides. Of all IOL materials incubated with S. epidermidis, those modified with Dynasilan showed a lower mean number of adherent bacteria (mean 1.37x10(7); SD 2.37x10(7)) than those untreated (2.43x10(7); SD 3.04x10(7)). IOLs incubated with P. acnes showed a significantly lower mean number of adherent bacteria of 2.51x10(4) (SD 2.71x10(4)) on Dynasilan-modified IOLs versus 6.27x10(4) (SD 7.70x10(4)) on untreated IOLs. The presented in vitro results indicate that Dynasilan surface modification is able to reduce the adherence of S. epidermidis and P. acnes on all IOL materials tested. Further studies regarding the stability of this modification and its biocompatibility must be performed.

Longitudinal Stability and Drag Characteristics at Mach Numbers from 0.70 to 1.37 of Rocket-propelled Models Having a Modified Triangular Wing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chapman, Rowe, Jr; Morrow, John D

1952-01-01

A modified triangular wing of aspect ratio 2.53 having an airfoil section 3.7 percent thick at the root and 5.98 percent thick at the tip was designed in an attempt to improve the lift and drag characteristics of triangular wings. Free-flight drag and stability tests were made using rocket-propelled models equipped with the modified wing. The Mach number range of the test was from 0.70 to 1.37. Test results indicated the following: The lift-curve slope of wing plus fuselage approaches the theoretical value of wing alone at supersonic Mach numbers. The drag coefficient, based on total wing area, for wing plus interference was approximately 0.0035 at subsonic Mach numbers and 0.0080 at supersonic Mach numbers. The maximum shift in aerodynamic center for the complete configuration was 14 percent in the rearward direction from the forward position of 51.5 percent of mean aerodynamic chord at subsonic Mach numbers. The variation of lift and moment with angle of attack was linear at supersonic Mach numbers for the range of coefficients covered in the test. The high value of lift-curve slope was considered to be a significant result attributable to the wing modifications.

Molecular dynamics simulations of human tRNA Lys,3 UUU: the role of modified bases in mRNA recognition.

PubMed

McCrate, Nina E; Varner, Mychel E; Kim, Kenneth I; Nagan, Maria C

2006-01-01

Accuracy in translation of the genetic code into proteins depends upon correct tRNA-mRNA recognition in the context of the ribosome. In human tRNA(Lys,3)UUU three modified bases are present in the anticodon stem-loop--2-methylthio-N6-threonylcarbamoyladenosine at position 37 (ms2t6A37), 5-methoxycarbonylmethyl-2-thiouridine at position 34 (mcm5s2U34) and pseudouridine (psi) at position 39--two of which, ms2t6A37 and mcm5s2U34, are required to achieve wild-type binding activity of wild-type human tRNA(Lys,3)UUU [C. Yarian, M. Marszalek, E. Sochacka, A. Malkiewicz, R. Guenther, A. Miskiewicz and P. F. Agris (2000) Biochemistry, 39, 13390-13395]. Molecular dynamics simulations of nine tRNA anticodon stem-loops with different combinations of nonstandard bases were performed. The wild-type simulation exhibited a canonical anticodon stair-stepped conformation. The ms2t6 modification at position 37 is required for maintenance of this structure and reduces solvent accessibility of U36. Ms2t6A37 generally hydrogen bonds across the loop and may prevent U36 from rotating into solution. A water molecule does coordinate to psi39 most of the simulation time but weakly, as most of the residence lifetimes are <40 ps.

Detection of histone modifications in plant leaves.

PubMed

Jaskiewicz, Michal; Peterhansel, Christoph; Conrath, Uwe

2011-09-23

Chromatin structure is important for the regulation of gene expression in eukaryotes. In this process, chromatin remodeling, DNA methylation, and covalent modifications on the amino-terminal tails of histones H3 and H4 play essential roles(1-2). H3 and H4 histone modifications include methylation of lysine and arginine, acetylation of lysine, and phosphorylation of serine residues(1-2). These modifications are associated either with gene activation, repression, or a primed state of gene that supports more rapid and robust activation of expression after perception of appropriate signals (microbe-associated molecular patterns, light, hormones, etc.)(3-7). Here, we present a method for the reliable and sensitive detection of specific chromatin modifications on selected plant genes. The technique is based on the crosslinking of (modified) histones and DNA with formaldehyde(8,9), extraction and sonication of chromatin, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) with modification-specific antibodies(9,10), de-crosslinking of histone-DNA complexes, and gene-specific real-time quantitative PCR. The approach has proven useful for detecting specific histone modifications associated with C(4;) photosynthesis in maize(5,11) and systemic immunity in Arabidopsis(3).

The value of pretest probability and modified clinical pulmonary infection score to diagnose ventilator-associated pneumonia.

PubMed

Lauzier, François; Ruest, Annie; Cook, Deborah; Dodek, Peter; Albert, Martin; Shorr, Andrew F; Day, Andrew; Jiang, Xuran; Heyland, Daren

2008-03-01

The aim of the study was to assess the utility of pretest probability and modified clinical pulmonary infection score CPIS in the diagnosis of late-onset ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). In 740 adults enrolled in a multicenter randomized trial, intensivists prospectively rated the pretest probability of VAP as low, moderate, or high based on their clinical judgment. The modified CPIS was calculated without considering culture results. Ventilator-associated pneumonia diagnosis was determined by 2 adjudicators using standardized definitions. We analyzed the relationship between pretest likelihood, CPIS, and VAP diagnosis. Among the 739 patients analyzed, 14.5%, 39.6%, and 45.9% had low, moderate, and high pretest probability of VAP. Patients with high pretest probability had a lower PaO2/FiO2 ratio and a larger volume of secretions. High or moderate vs low pretest probability had high sensitivity (0.88; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.87-0.89) and positive predictive value (0.87; 95% CI, 0.86-0.88) but low specificity (0.27; 95% CI, 0.21-0.35) and negative predictive value (0.29; 95% C,: 0.22-0.37) for the diagnosis of VAP. Therefore, 71% of patients who had a low pretest probability were actually infected (1 - negative predictive value). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for the modified CPIS was not significant (0.47; 95% CI, 0.42-0.53), meaning that no score threshold was clinically useful. Pretest probability and a modified CPIS, which excludes culture results, are of limited utility in the diagnosis of late-onset VAP.

Population attributable risk of key modifiable risk factors associated with non-exclusive breastfeeding in Nigeria.

PubMed

Ogbo, Felix Akpojene; Page, Andrew; Idoko, John; Agho, Kingsley E

2018-02-13

Non-exclusive breastfeeding (non-EBF) is a risk factor for many of the 2300 under-five deaths occurring daily in Nigeria - a developing country with approximately 40 million children. This study aimed to quantify and compare the attributable burden of key modifiable risk factors associated with non-EBF in Nigeria to inform strategic policy responses and initiatives. Relative risk and exposure prevalence for selected modifiable risk factors were used to calculate population attributable fractions based on Nigeria Demographic and Health Surveys data for the period (1999-2013). Scenarios based on feasible impact of community-based interventions in reducing exposure prevalence were also considered to calculate comparative potential impact fractions. In Nigeria, an estimated 22.8% (95% Confidence Interval, CI: 9.2-37.0%) of non-EBF was attributable to primary and no maternal education; 24.7% (95% CI: 9.5-39.5%) to middle and poor household wealth, 9.7% (1.7-18.1%) to lower number (1-3) and no antenatal care visits; 18.8% (95% CI: 6.9-30.8%) to home delivery and 16.6% (95% CI: 3.0-31.3%) to delivery assisted by a non-health professional. In combination, more than half of all cases of non-EBF (64.5%; 95% CI: 50.0-76.4%) could be attributed to those modifiable risk factors. Scenarios based on feasible impacts of community-based approaches to improve health service access and human capacity suggest that an avoidable burden of non-EBF practice of approximately 11% (95% CI: -5.4; 24.7) is achievable. Key modifiable risk factors contribute significantly to non-EBF in Nigerian women. Community-based initiatives and appropriate socio-economic government policies that specifically consider those modifiable risk factors could substantially reduce non-EBF practice in Nigeria.

75 FR 20774 - Modification of Jet Routes J-37 and J-55; Northeast United States

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-04-21

... DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 71 [Docket No. FAA-2010-0003; Airspace Docket No. 09-ANE-104] Modification of Jet Routes J-37 and J-55; Northeast United States AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. SUMMARY: This action modifies Jet...

Snapshots of Dynamics in Synthesizing N6-isopentenyladenosine at tRNA Anticodon†,‡

PubMed Central

Chimnaronk, Sarin; Forouhar, Farhad; Sakai, Junichi; Yao, Min; Tron, Cecile M.; Atta, Mohamed; Fontecave, Marc; Hunt, John F.; Tanaka, Isao

2009-01-01

Bacterial and eukaryotic transfer RNAs that decode codons starting with uridine have a hydrophobically-hypermodified adenosine at the position 37 (A37) adjacent to the 3′-end of the anticodon, which is essential for efficient and highly accurate protein translation by the ribosome. However, it remains unclear how the corresponding tRNAs are selected to be modified by alkylation at the correct position of the adenosine base. We have determined a series of the crystal structures of bacterial tRNA isopentenyltransferase (MiaA) in apo- and tRNA-bound forms, which completely render snapshots of substrate selections during modification of RNA. A compact evolutionary inserted domain (herein ‘swinging domain’) in MiaA that exhibits as a highly mobile entity moves around the catalytic domain as likely to reach and trap the tRNA substrate. Thereby, MiaA clamps the anticodon stem loop of tRNA substrate between the catalytic and swinging domains, where the two conserved elongated residues from the swinging domain pinch the two flanking A36 and A38 together to squeeze out A37 into the reaction tunnel. The site-specific isopentenylation of RNA is thus ensured by a characteristic pinch-and-flip mechanism and by a reaction tunnel to confine the substrate selection. Furthermore, combining information from soaking experiments with structural comparisons, we propose a mechanism for the ordered substrate-binding of MiaA. PMID:19435325

Exposure to drinking water trihalomethanes and their association with low birth weight and small for gestational age in genetically susceptible women.

PubMed

Danileviciute, Asta; Grazuleviciene, Regina; Vencloviene, Jone; Paulauskas, Algimantas; Nieuwenhuijsen, Mark J

2012-12-06

Little is known about genetic susceptibility to individual trihalomethanes (THM) in relation to adverse pregnancy outcomes. We conducted a nested case-control study of 682 pregnant women in Kaunas (Lithuania) and, using individual information on drinking water, ingestion, showering and bathing, and uptake factors of THMs in blood, estimated an internal THM dose. We used logistic regression to evaluate the relationship between internal THM dose, birth outcomes and individual and joint (modifying) effects of metabolic gene polymorphisms. THM exposure during entire pregnancy and specific trimesters slightly increased low birth weight (LBW) risk. When considering both THM exposure and maternal genotypes, the largest associations were found for third trimester among total THM (TTHM) and chloroform-exposed women with the GSTM1-0 genotype (OR: 4.37; 95% CI: 1.36-14.08 and OR: 5.06; 95% CI: 1.50-17.05, respectively). A test of interaction between internal THM dose and GSTM1-0 genotype suggested a modifying effect of exposure to chloroform and bromodichloromethane on LBW risk. However, the effect on small for gestational age (SGA) was not statistically significant. These data suggest that THM internal dose may affect foetal growth and that maternal GSTM1 genotype modifies the THM exposure effects on LBW.

7 CFR 1753.37 - Plans and specifications (P&S).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 11 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Plans and specifications (P&S). 1753.37 Section 1753... Installation of Central Office Equipment § 1753.37 Plans and specifications (P&S). (a) General. (1) Prior to the preparation of P&S, the borrower shall review with the GFR the current and future requirements for...

7 CFR 1753.37 - Plans and specifications (P&S).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 11 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Plans and specifications (P&S). 1753.37 Section 1753... Installation of Central Office Equipment § 1753.37 Plans and specifications (P&S). (a) General. (1) Prior to the preparation of P&S, the borrower shall review with the GFR the current and future requirements for...

7 CFR 1753.37 - Plans and specifications (P&S).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 11 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Plans and specifications (P&S). 1753.37 Section 1753... Installation of Central Office Equipment § 1753.37 Plans and specifications (P&S). (a) General. (1) Prior to the preparation of P&S, the borrower shall review with the GFR the current and future requirements for...

7 CFR 1753.37 - Plans and specifications (P&S).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 11 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Plans and specifications (P&S). 1753.37 Section 1753... Installation of Central Office Equipment § 1753.37 Plans and specifications (P&S). (a) General. (1) Prior to the preparation of P&S, the borrower shall review with the GFR the current and future requirements for...

Engineering of dendrimer surfaces to enhance transepithelial transport and reduce cytotoxicity.

PubMed

Jevprasesphant, Rachaneekorn; Penny, Jeffrey; Attwood, David; McKeown, Neil B; D'Emanuele, Antony

2003-10-01

To evaluate the cytotoxicity, permeation, and transport mechanisms of PAMAM dendrimers and surface-modified cationic PAMAM dendrimers using monolayers of the human colon adenocarcinoma cell line, Caco-2. Cytotoxicity was determined using the MTT assay. The effect of dendrimers on monolayer integrity was determined from measurements of transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) and [14C]mannitol apparent permeability coefficient (Papp). The Papp of dendrimers through monolayers was measured in both the apical (A)-to-basolateral (B) and B --> A directions at 4 degrees C and 37 degrees C and also in the presence and absence of ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA) and colchicine. The cytotoxicity and permeation of dendrimers increased with both concentration and generation. The cytotoxicity of cationic dendrimers (G2, G3, G4) was greater than that of anionic dendrimers (G2.5, G3.5) but was reduced by conjugation with lauroyl chloride: the least cytotoxic conjugates were those with six attached lauroyl chains. At 37 degrees C the Papp of cationic dendrimers was higher than that of anionic dendrimers and, in general, increased with the number of attached lipid chains. Cationic dendrimers decreased TEER and significantly increased the Papp of mannitol. Modified dendrimers also reduced TEER and caused a more marked increase in the Papp of mannitol. The Papp values of dendrimers and modified dendrimers were higher in the presence of EDTA, lower in the presence of colchicine, and lower at 4 degrees C than at 37 degrees C. The properties of dendrimers may be significantly modified by surface engineering. Conjugation of cationic PAMAM dendrimers with lauroyl chloride decreased their cytotoxicity and increased their permeation through Caco-2 cell monolayers. Both PAMAM dendrimers and lauroyl-PAMAM dendrimer conjugates can cross epithelial monolayers by paracellular and transcellular pathways.

Targeted Identification of SUMOylation Sites in Human Proteins Using Affinity Enrichment and Paralog-specific Reporter Ions*

PubMed Central

Lamoliatte, Frederic; Bonneil, Eric; Durette, Chantal; Caron-Lizotte, Olivier; Wildemann, Dirk; Zerweck, Johannes; Wenshuk, Holger; Thibault, Pierre

2013-01-01

Protein modification by small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO) modulates the activities of numerous proteins involved in different cellular functions such as gene transcription, cell cycle, and DNA repair. Comprehensive identification of SUMOylated sites is a prerequisite to determine how SUMOylation regulates protein function. However, mapping SUMOylated Lys residues by mass spectrometry (MS) is challenging because of the dynamic nature of this modification, the existence of three functionally distinct human SUMO paralogs, and the large SUMO chain remnant that remains attached to tryptic peptides. To overcome these problems, we created HEK293 cell lines that stably express functional SUMO paralogs with an N-terminal His6-tag and an Arg residue near the C terminus that leave a short five amino acid SUMO remnant upon tryptic digestion. We determined the fragmentation patterns of our short SUMO remnant peptides by collisional activation and electron transfer dissociation using synthetic peptide libraries. Activation using higher energy collisional dissociation on the LTQ-Orbitrap Elite identified SUMO paralog-specific fragment ions and neutral losses of the SUMO remnant with high mass accuracy (< 5 ppm). We exploited these features to detect SUMO modified tryptic peptides in complex cell extracts by correlating mass measurements of precursor and fragment ions using a data independent acquisition method. We also generated bioinformatics tools to retrieve MS/MS spectra containing characteristic fragment ions to the identification of SUMOylated peptide by conventional Mascot database searches. In HEK293 cell extracts, this MS approach uncovered low abundance SUMOylated peptides and 37 SUMO3-modified Lys residues in target proteins, most of which were previously unknown. Interestingly, we identified mixed SUMO-ubiquitin chains with ubiquitylated SUMO proteins (K20 and K32) and SUMOylated ubiquitin (K63), suggesting a complex crosstalk between these two modifications. PMID:23750026

49 CFR 37.13 - Effective date for certain vehicle specifications.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 49 Transportation 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Effective date for certain vehicle specifications. 37.13 Section 37.13 Transportation Office of the Secretary of Transportation TRANSPORTATION SERVICES FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES (ADA) General § 37.13 Effective date for certain vehicle...

Generation and purification of highly-specific antibodies for detecting post-translationally modified proteins in vivo

PubMed Central

Arur, Swathi; Schedl, Tim

2014-01-01

Post-translational modifications alter protein structure, affecting activity, stability, localization and/or binding partners. Antibodies that specifically recognize post-translationally modified proteins have a number of uses including immuno-cytochemistry and immuno-precipitation of the modified protein to purify protein-protein and protein-nucleic acid complexes. However, antibodies directed at modified sites on individual proteins are often non-specific. Here we describe a protocol to purify polyclonal antibodies that specifically detect the modified protein of interest. The approach uses iterative rounds of subtraction and affinity purification, using stringent washes to remove antibodies that recognize the unmodified protein and low sequence complexity epitopes containing the modified amino acid. Dot and western blots assays are employed to assess antibody preparation specificity. The approach is designed to overcome the common occurrence that a single round of subtraction and affinity purification is not sufficient to obtain a modified protein specific antibody preparation. One full round of antibody purification and specificity testing takes 6 days of discontinuous time. PMID:24457330

77 FR 24538 - Fukushima-Related Orders Modifying Licenses; Establishment of Atomic Safety and Licensing Board

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-04-24

... NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION [Docket Nos. EA-12-050, EA-12-051; ASLBP No. 12-918-01-EA-BD01] Fukushima-Related Orders Modifying Licenses; Establishment of Atomic Safety and Licensing Board Pursuant to delegation by the Commission dated December 29, 1972, published in the Federal Register, 37 FR 28,710 (1972...

The prognostic significance of the 2014 International Society of Urological Pathology (ISUP) grading system for prostate cancer.

PubMed

Samaratunga, Hemamali; Delahunt, Brett; Gianduzzo, Troy; Coughlin, Geoff; Duffy, David; LeFevre, Ian; Johannsen, Shulammite; Egevad, Lars; Yaxley, John

2015-10-01

The 2005 International Society of Urological Pathology (ISUP) modified Gleason grading system was further amended in 2014 with the establishment of grade groupings (ISUP grading). This study examined the predictive value of ISUP grading, comparing results with recognised prognostic parameters.Of 3700 men undergoing radical prostatectomy (RP) reported at Aquesta Pathology between 2008 and 2013, 2079 also had a positive needle biopsy available for review. We examined the association between needle biopsy 2014 ISUP grade and 2005 modified Gleason score, tumour volume, pathological stage of the subsequent RP tumour, as well as biochemical recurrence-free survival (BRFS). The median age was 62 (range 32-79 years). Median serum prostate specific antigen was 5.9 (range 0.4-69 ng/mL). For needle biopsies, 280 (13.5%), 1031 (49.6%), 366 (17.6%), 77 (3.7%) and 325 (15.6%) were 2014 ISUP grades 1-5, respectively. Needle biopsy 2014 ISUP grade showed a significant association with RP tumour volume (p < 0.001), TNM pT and N stage (p < 0.001) and BRFS (p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis using Cox proportional hazards regression model showed serum prostate specific antigen (PSA) at the time of diagnosis and ISUP grade >2 to be significantly associated with BRFS.This study provides evidence of the prognostic significance of ISUP grading for thin core needle biopsy of prostate.

Use of the modified Gompertz equation to assess the Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni antilisterial kinetics.

PubMed

Belda-Galbis, Clara Miracle; Pina-Pérez, María Consuelo; Espinosa, Josepa; Marco-Celdrán, Aurora; Martínez, Antonio; Rodrigo, Dolores

2014-04-01

In order to assess the antibacterial activity of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni (Stevia), Listeria innocua growth was characterized at 37 °C, in reference medium supplemented with a leaf infusion, a crude extract, and a steviol glycosides purified extract. Experimental data were fitted to the modified Gompertz model and the antibacterial activity of Stevia was determined based on the lag time (λ) and the maximum growth rate (μmax) reached, depending on the incubation conditions. As the leaf infusion showed the most marked elongation of λ and the most marked μmax reduction, its antimicrobial effect was evaluated at different concentrations, at 37, 22 and 10 °C. According to the results obtained, in general, the lower the temperature or the higher the Stevia concentration, the longer the λ and the lower the μmax, statistically significant being the effect of reducing temperature from 37 or 22 to 10 °C, the effect of increasing Stevia concentration from 0 or 0.5 to 1.5 or 2.5% (w/v), at 37 °C, and the elongation of λ observed in presence of 1.5 and 2.5% (w/v) of Stevia, at 22 °C. These results show that Stevia could be a bacterial growth control measure if a cold chain failure occurs. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Crystal Structure of the N-Terminal Half of the Traffic Controller UL37 from Herpes Simplex Virus 1

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

Koenigsberg, Andrea L.; Heldwein, Ekaterina E.; Sandri-Goldin, Rozanne M.

Inner tegument protein UL37 is conserved among all three subfamilies of herpesviruses. Studies of UL37 homologs from two alphaherpesviruses, herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) and pseudorabies virus (PRV), have suggested that UL37 plays an essential albeit poorly defined role in intracellular capsid trafficking. At the same time, HSV and PRV homologs cannot be swapped, which suggests that in addition to a conserved function, UL37 homologs also have divergent virus-specific functions. Accurate dissection of UL37 functions requires detailed maps in the form of atomic-resolution structures. Previously, we reported the crystal structure of the N-terminal half of UL37 (UL37N) from PRV. Here,more » we report the crystal structure of HSV-1 UL37N. Comparison of the two structures reveals that UL37 homologs differ in their overall shapes, distributions of surface charges, and locations of projecting loops. In contrast, the previously identified R2 surface region is structurally conserved. We propose that within the N-terminal half of UL37, functional conservation is centered within the R2 surface region, whereas divergent structural elements pinpoint regions mediating virus-specific functions and may engage different binding partners. Together, the two structures can now serve as templates for a structure-guided exploration of both conserved and virus-specific functions of UL37. IMPORTANCEThe ability to move efficiently within host cell cytoplasm is essential for replication in all viruses. It is especially important in the neuroinvasive alphaherpesviruses, such as human herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1), HSV-2, and veterinarian pseudorabies virus (PRV), that infect the peripheral nervous system and have to travel long distances along axons. Capsid movement in these viruses is controlled by capsid-associated tegument proteins, yet their specific roles have not yet been defined. Systematic exploration of the roles of tegument proteins in capsid trafficking requires detailed navigational charts in the form of their three-dimensional structures. Here, we determined the crystal structure of the N-terminal half of a conserved tegument protein, UL37, from HSV-1. This structure, along with our previously reported structure of the UL37 homolog from PRV, provides a much needed 3-dimensional template for the dissection of both conserved and virus-specific functions of UL37 in intracellular capsid trafficking.« less

37 CFR 251.55 - Post-panel motions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... proceeding may file with the Librarian of Congress a petition to modify or set aside the determination of a Copyright Arbitration Royalty Panel within 14 days of the Librarian's receipt of the panel's report of its...

76 FR 15825 - Amendment of Class E Airspace; Pueblo, CO

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-03-22

... [Modified] Pueblo Memorial Airport, CO (Lat. 38[deg]17'21'' N., long. 104[deg]29'47'' W.) That airspace... within the 28.8-mile radius of Pueblo Memorial Airport clockwise between the 070[deg] and 133[deg... lat. 37[deg]37'26'' N., long. 105[deg]00'02'' W.; to lat. 38[deg]09'25'' N., long. 105[deg]08'06'' W...

Cerebral perfusion and oxygenation after the Norwood procedure: comparison of right ventricle-pulmonary artery conduit with modified Blalock-Taussig shunt.

PubMed

Kussman, Barry D; Gauvreau, Kimberlee; DiNardo, James A; Newburger, Jane W; Mackie, Andrew S; Booth, Karen L; del Nido, Pedro J; Roth, Stephen J; Laussen, Peter C

2007-03-01

The proposed physiologic advantage of the modified Norwood procedure using a right ventricle-pulmonary artery conduit to supply pulmonary blood flow, compared with a modified Blalock-Taussig shunt, is reduced runoff from the systemic-to-pulmonary circulation during diastole, resulting in a higher diastolic blood pressure and improved systemic perfusion. We hypothesized that the modified Norwood procedure is associated with improved cerebral perfusion and oxygenation. Transcranial Doppler sonography and near-infrared spectroscopy were performed in neonates undergoing the Norwood procedure with either a modified Blalock-Taussig shunt (n = 14) or right ventricle-pulmonary artery conduit (n = 13). Diastolic blood pressure was significantly higher in the right ventricle-pulmonary artery group at 6 hours after bypass (46 +/- 7 vs 40 +/- 4 mm Hg; P = .03), on postoperative day 1 (45 +/- 6 vs 37 +/- 5 mm Hg; P = .002), and on postoperative day 2 (46 +/- 7 vs 37 +/- 4 mm Hg; P = .001). Cerebral diastolic blood flow velocity did not differ significantly between groups at any time point or over time, but cerebral systolic blood flow velocity was higher over time in the Blalock-Taussig group (P = .01). No significant differences in regional cerebral oxygen saturation were found between groups at baseline or after bypass. Blood flow velocities and cerebral oxygen saturation did not differ significantly according to use of regional low-flow perfusion. The higher diastolic blood pressure after the modified Norwood procedure is not associated with higher cerebral blood flow velocities or regional cerebral oxygen saturation. This may imply an equal vulnerability to the cerebral injury associated with hemodynamic instability in the early postoperative period.

Role of modifiers for analytical-scale supercritical fluid extraction of environmental samples

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

Langenfeld, J.J.; Hawthorne, S.B.; Miller, D.J.

1994-03-15

Supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) using eight different CO[sub 2] + organic modifier mixtures and one ternary mixture (CO[sub 2] + methanol/toluene) at two different concentrations (1 and 10% v/v) was performed on two certified reference materials including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) from river sediment and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) from urban air particulate matter. The modifier identity was more important than modifier concentration for increasing extraction efficiencies. Acidic/basic modifiers including methanol, acetic acid, and aniline greatly enhanced the extraction of PCBs. Low molecular weight PAHs were best extracted with modifiers including aniline, acetic acid, acetonitrile, methanol/toluene, hexane, and diethylamine. In contrast,more » modifiers capable of dipole-induced dipole interactions and [pi]-[pi] interactions such as toluene, diethylamine, and methylene chloride were the best modifiers to use for SFE of high molecular weight PAHs from air particulates. 37 refs., 6 tabs.« less

Codon optimisation to improve expression of a Mycobacterium avium ssp. paratuberculosis-specific membrane-associated antigen by Lactobacillus salivarius.

PubMed

Johnston, Christopher; Douarre, Pierre E; Soulimane, Tewfik; Pletzer, Daniel; Weingart, Helge; MacSharry, John; Coffey, Aidan; Sleator, Roy D; O'Mahony, Jim

2013-06-01

Subunit and DNA-based vaccines against Mycobacterium avium ssp. paratuberculosis (MAP) attempt to overcome inherent issues associated with whole-cell formulations. However, these vaccines can be hampered by poor expression of recombinant antigens from a number of disparate hosts. The high G+C content of MAP invariably leads to a codon bias throughout gene expression. To investigate if the codon bias affects recombinant MAP antigen expression, the open reading frame of a MAP-specific antigen MptD (MAP3733c) was codon optimised for expression against a Lactobacillus salivarius host. Of the total 209 codons which constitute MAP3733c, 172 were modified resulting in a reduced G+C content from 61% for the native gene to 32.7% for the modified form. Both genes were placed under the transcriptional control of the PnisA promoter; allowing controlled heterologous expression in L. salivarius. Expression was monitored using fluorescence microscopy and microplate fluorometry via GFP tags translationally fused to the C-termini of the two MptD genes. A > 37-fold increase in expression was observed for the codon-optimised MAP3733synth variant over the native gene. Due to the low cost and improved expression achieved, codon optimisation significantly improves the potential of L. salivarius as an oral vaccine stratagem against Johne's disease. © 2013 Federation of European Microbiological Societies. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd. All rights reserved.

[Effect of Yersinia pestis EV 76 lypopolysaccharides with different levels of toxicity on dynamics of TNF-alpha and INF-gamma synthesis by human monocytes].

PubMed

Sokolova, E P; Demidova, G V; Ziuzina, V P; Alekseeva, L P; Bespalova, I A; Tynianova, V I

2010-01-01

AIM. To study dynamics of synthesis of TNF-alpha and INF-gamma by cell line U-937 human monocytes under the effect of Yersinia pestis EV 76 lypopolysaccharides (LPS) with different levels of toxicity: original LPS28 and LPS37 as well as their conformationally--changed variants with enhanced toxicity--complex of LPS with murine toxin (MT) of Y. pestis, and LPS modified by biologicall active compound (BAC) obtained from human erythrocytes. Using phenol method, LPS were obtained from Y. pestis EV 76 cells grown at 28 and 37 degrees C. Production of cytokines was measured by ELISA. It was shown that original and modified forms of LPS28 and LPS37 induce synthesis of both TNF-alpha and INF-gamma by human monocytes. Expression of genes for two ways of synthesis of these cytokines points to activation and transmission of signal induced by all studied forms of Y. pestis EV 76 LPS through TLR4. Levels of activity of MyD88-dependent and MyD88-independent signaling pathways are different and depend from chemical structure of LPS28 and LPS37, conformation of their modified forms and duration of their exposition with monocytes. Dynamics ofcytokine synthesis corresponds to response of synergized TLR on activation with profound agonistic/antagonistic effect. It was determined that conformational modifications of Y. pestis EV76 LPS occurring due to effect of MT and BAC accompanied by quantitative, qualitative and temporal changes of TNF-alpha and INF-gamma synthesis by human monocytes and correlate with increase of their toxic properties.

The validity of three fall risk screening tools in an acute geriatric inpatient population.

PubMed

Latt, Mark Dominic; Loh, K Florence; Ge, Ludi; Hepworth, Annie

2016-09-01

We examined the validity of the Ontario Modified STRATIFY (OM) (St Thomas's Risk Assessment Tool in Falling Elderly Inpatients), The Northern Hospital Modified STRATIFY (TNH) and STRATIFY in predicting falls in an acute aged care unit. Data were collected prospectively from 217 people presenting consecutively and falls identified during hospitalisation. Sensitivities of OM (80.0, 95% confidence interval (CI) 58.4 to 91.9%), TNH (85, CI 64.0 to 94.8%) and STRATIFY (80.0, CI 58.4 to 91.0%) were similar. The STRATIFY had higher specificity (61.4, CI 54.5 to 67.9%) than OM (37.1, CI 30.6 to 44.0%) and TNH (51.3, CI 44.3 to 58.2%). Accuracy (percentage of patients correctly classified as 'faller' or 'non-faller') was higher using STRATIFY (63.1, CI 56.5 to 69.3%) and TNH (54.4, CI 47.8 to 61.0%) than with OM (41.0, CI 34.7 to 47.7%, P < 0.0001). Screening tools have limited accuracy in identifying patients at high risk of falls. © 2016 AJA Inc.

The Pax gene family: Highlights from cephalopods

PubMed Central

Baratte, Sébastien; Andouche, Aude; Bonnaud-Ponticelli, Laure

2017-01-01

Pax genes play important roles in Metazoan development. Their evolution has been extensively studied but Lophotrochozoa are usually omitted. We addressed the question of Pax paralog diversity in Lophotrochozoa by a thorough review of available databases. The existence of six Pax families (Pax1/9, Pax2/5/8, Pax3/7, Pax4/6, Paxβ, PoxNeuro) was confirmed and the lophotrochozoan Paxβ subfamily was further characterized. Contrary to the pattern reported in chordates, the Pax2/5/8 family is devoid of homeodomain in Lophotrochozoa. Expression patterns of the three main pax classes (pax2/5/8, pax3/7, pax4/6) during Sepia officinalis development showed that Pax roles taken as ancestral and common in metazoans are modified in S. officinalis, most likely due to either the morphological specificities of cephalopods or to their direct development. Some expected expression patterns were missing (e.g. pax6 in the developing retina), and some expressions in unexpected tissues have been found (e.g. pax2/5/8 in dermal tissue and in gills). This study underlines the diversity and functional plasticity of Pax genes and illustrates the difficulty of using probable gene homology as strict indicator of homology between biological structures. PMID:28253300

EGFR mutant allelic-specific imbalance assessment in routine samples of non-small cell lung cancer.

PubMed

Malapelle, Umberto; Vatrano, Simona; Russo, Stefania; Bellevicine, Claudio; de Luca, Caterina; Sgariglia, Roberta; Rocco, Danilo; de Pietro, Livia; Riccardi, Fernando; Gobbini, Elisa; Righi, Luisella; Troncone, Giancarlo

2015-09-01

In non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene may undergo both mutations and copy number gains. EGFR mutant allele-specific imbalance (MASI) occurs when the ratio of mutant-to-wild-type alleles increases significantly. In this study, by using a previously validated microfluidic-chip-based technology, EGFR-MASI occurred in 25/67 mutant cases (37%), being more frequently associated with EGFR exon 19 deletions (p=0.033). In a subset of 49 treated patients, we assessed whether MASI is a modifier of anti-EGFR treatment benefit. The difference in progression-free survival and overall survival between EGFR-MASI-positive and EGFR-MASI-negative groups of patients did not show a statistical significance. In conclusion, EGFR-MASI is a significant event in NSCLC, specifically associated with EGFR exon 19 deletions. However, EGFR-MASI does not seem to play a role in predicting the response to first-generation EGFR small molecules inhibitors. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.

Peptide-modified liposomes for selective targeting of bombesin receptors overexpressed by cancer cells: a potential theranostic agent

PubMed Central

Accardo, Antonella; Salsano, Giuseppina; Morisco, Anna; Aurilio, Michela; Parisi, Antonio; Maione, Francesco; Cicala, Carla; Tesauro, Diego; Aloj, Luigi; De Rosa, Giuseppe; Morelli, Giancarlo

2012-01-01

Objectives Drug delivery systems consisting of liposomes displaying a cell surface receptor-targeting peptide are being developed to specifically deliver chemotherapeutic drugs to tumors overexpressing a target receptor. This study addresses novel liposome composition approaches to specifically target tissues overexpressing bombesin (BN) receptors. Methods A new amphiphilic peptide derivative (MonY-BN) containing the BN(7–14) peptide, the DTPA (diethylenetriaminepentaacetate) chelating agent, a hydrophobic moiety with two C18 alkyl chains, and polyethylene glycol spacers, has been synthesized by solid-phase methods. Liposomes have been generated by co-aggregation of MonY-BN with 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DSPC). The structural and biological properties of these new target-selective drug-delivery systems have been characterized. Results Liposomes with a DSPC/MonY-BN (97/3 molar ratio) composition showed a diameter of 145.5 ± 31.5 nm and a polydispersity index of 0.20 ± 0.05. High doxorubicin (Dox) loading was obtained with the remote pH gradient method using citrate as the inner buffer. Specific binding to PC-3 cells of DSPC/MonY-BN liposomes was obtained (2.7% ± 0.3%, at 37°C), compared with peptide-free DSPC liposomes (1.4% ± 0.2% at 37°C). Incubation of cells with DSPC/ MonY-BN/Dox showed significantly lower cell survival compared with DSPC/Dox-treated cells, in the presence of 100 ng/mL and 300 ng/mL drug amounts, in cytotoxicity experiments. Intravenous treatment of PC-3 xenograft-bearing mice with DSPC/MonY-BN/Dox at 10 mg/kg Dox dose produced higher tumour growth inhibition (60%) compared with nonspecific DSPC/ Dox liposomes (36%) relative to control animals. Conclusion The structural and loading properties of DSPC/MonY-BN liposomes along with the observed in-vitro and in-vivo activity are encouraging for further development of this approach for target-specific cancer chemotherapy. PMID:22619538

Assessing health-related quality of life in Japanese children with a chronic condition: validation of the DISABKIDS chronic generic module.

PubMed

Sasaki, Hatoko; Kakee, Naoko; Morisaki, Naho; Mori, Rintaro; Ravens-Sieberer, Ulrike; Bullinger, Monika

2018-05-02

This study examined the reliability and validity of the Japanese versions of the DISABKIDS-37 generic modules, a tool for assessing the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of children and adolescents with a chronic condition. The study was conducted using a sample of 123 children/adolescents with a chronic medical condition, aged 8-18 years, and their parents. Focus interviews were performed to ensure content validity after translation. The classical psychometric tests were used to assess reliability and scale intercorrelations. The factor structure was examined with confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Convergent validity was assessed by the correlation between the total score and the sub-scales of DISABKIDS-37 as well as the total score of KIDSCREEN-10. Both the children/adolescent and parent versions of the score showed good to high internal consistency, and the test-retest reliability correlations were r = 0.91 or above. The CFA revealed that the modified models for all domains were better fit than the original 37 item scale model for both self-report and proxy-report. Moderate to high positive correlations were found for the associations within DISABKIDS-37 sub-scales and between the subscales and total score, except for the treatment sub-scale, which correlated weakly with the remaining sub-scales. The total score of the child-reported version of KIDSCREEN-10 correlated significantly and positively with the total score and all the sub-scales of the child-reported version of DISABKIDS-37 except the Treatment sub-scale in adolescents. The modified models of Japanese version of DISABKIDS generic module were psychometrically robust enough to assess the HRQOL of children with a chronic condition.

10 CFR 37.11 - Specific exemptions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... sources, ion-exchange resins, or activated material that weighs less than 2,000 kg (4,409 lbs) is not... General Provisions § 37.11 Specific exemptions. (a) The Commission may, upon application of any interested...

Targeted delivery of non-viral vectors to cartilage in vivo using a chondrocyte-homing peptide identified by phage display.

PubMed

Pi, Yanbin; Zhang, Xin; Shi, Junjun; Zhu, Jinxian; Chen, Wenqing; Zhang, Chenguang; Gao, Weiwei; Zhou, Chunyan; Ao, Yingfang

2011-09-01

Gene therapy is a promising method for osteoarthritis and cartilage injury. However, specifically delivering target genes into chondrocytes is a great challenge because of their non-vascularity and the dense extracellular matrix of cartilage. In our study, we identified a chondrocyte-affinity peptide (CAP, DWRVIIPPRPSA) by phage display technology. Subsequent analysis suggests that the peptide can efficiently interact specifically with chondrocytes without any species specificity. Polyethylenimine (PEI) was covalently modified with CAP to construct a non-viral vector for cartilage-targeted therapy. To investigate the cartilage-targeting property of the CAP-modified vector, FITC-labeled CAP conjugated PEI/DNA particles were injected into rabbit knee joints, and visualized under confocal microscope. Higher concentrations of CAP-modified vector were detected in the cartilage and specifically taken up by chondrocytes compared with a randomly scrambled peptide (SP)-modified vector. To evaluate cartilage-targeting transfection efficiency, the GFP and luciferase genes were delivered into knee joints using CAP- and SP-modified PEI. Cartilage transfections mediated by CAP-modified PEI were much more efficient and specific than those by SP-modified PEI. This result suggests that CAP-modified PEI could be used as a specific cartilage-targeting vector for cartilage disorders. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Chemical modification of protein a chromatography ligands with polyethylene glycol. II: Effects on resin robustness and process selectivity.

PubMed

Weinberg, Justin; Zhang, Shaojie; Kirkby, Allison; Shachar, Enosh; Carta, Giorgio; Przybycien, Todd

2018-04-20

We have proposed chemical modification of Protein A (ProA) chromatography ligands with polyethylene glycol (PEGylation) as a strategy to increase the resin selectivity and robustness by providing the ligand with a steric repulsion barrier against non-specific binding. Here, we report on robustness and selectivity benefits for Repligen CaptivA PriMAB resin with ligands modified with 5.2 kDa and 21.5 kDa PEG chains, respectively. PEGylation of ProA ligands allowed the resin to retain a higher percentage of static binding capacity relative to the unmodified resin upon digestion with chymotrypsin, a representative serine protease. The level of protection against digestion was independent of the PEG molecular weight or modification extent for the PEGylation chemistry used. Additionally, PEGylation of the ligands was found to decrease the level of non-specific binding of fluorescently labeled bovine serum albumin (BSA) aggregates to the surface of the resin particles as visualized via confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). The level of aggregate binding decreased as the PEG molecular weight increased, but increasing the extent of modification with 5.2 kDa PEG chains had no effect. Further examination of resin particles via CLSM confirmed that the PEG chains on the modified ligands were capable of blocking the "hitchhiking" association of BSA, a mock contaminant, to an adsorbed mAb that is prone to BSA binding. Ligands modified with 21.5 kDa PEG chains were effective at blocking the association, while ligands modified with 5.2 kDa PEG chains were not. Finally, ligands with 21.5 kDa PEG chains increased the selectivity of the resin against host cell proteins (HCPs) produced by Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cells by up to 37% during purification of a monoclonal antibody (mAb) from harvested cell culture fluid (HCCF) using a standard ProA chromatography protocol. The combined work suggests that PEGylating ProA chromatography media is a viable pathway for increasing both resin lifetime and host cell impurity clearance in downstream bioprocessing. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Control of main risk factors after ischaemic stroke across Europe: data from the stroke-specific module of the EUROASPIRE III survey.

PubMed

Heuschmann, Peter U; Kircher, Julia; Nowe, Tim; Dittrich, Ralf; Reiner, Zeljko; Cifkova, Renata; Malojcic, Branko; Mayer, Otto; Bruthans, Jan; Wloch-Kopec, Dorota; Prugger, Christof; Heidrich, Jan; Keil, Ulrich

2015-10-01

Previous cross-sectional surveys in different European countries within the EUROASPIRE programme demonstrated a high prevalence of modifiable risk factors, unhealthy lifestyles and inadequate drug treatment in coronary heart disease patients. Comparable data for ischaemic stroke patients is lacking. A stroke-specific study module was added to the EUROASPIRE III core survey. This cross-sectional multicentre survey included consecutive patients with first-ever ischaemic stroke from four European countries. Data were obtained from medical records, patient interviews and patient examinations within 6-36 months after the stroke event. Control of modifiable risk factors after stroke was evaluated against contemporary European guidelines. A total of 881 patients was recruited. Median age was 66 years, 37.5% were female; average time from the stroke event to interview was 550 days. At the time of the interview, 17.6% of stroke patients smoked cigarettes, 35.5% had a body mass index ≥30 kg/m(2), 62.4% showed elevated blood pressure and 75.7% exhibited elevated LDL cholesterol levels. Antiplatelet drugs or oral anticoagulants were used by 87.2%, antihypertensive medication by 84.4% and statins by 56.8% of stroke patients. Among patients using antihypertensive drugs and lipid-lowering medication at the time of the interview, 34.3% and 34.4%, respectively, achieved target blood pressure and total cholesterol values according to current European guidelines. The EUROASPIRE III stroke-specific module shows that secondary prevention and risk factor control in patients after ischaemic stroke need to be improved in four European centres at the time of the study since about half of patients are not achieving risk factor targets defined in European guidelines. © The European Society of Cardiology 2014.

Modified arytenoid adduction for cancer-related unilateral vocal fold paralysis.

PubMed

Shi, J; Chen, S; Chen, D; Wang, W; Xia, S; Zheng, H

2011-02-01

(1) To evaluate the efficacy of modified arytenoid adduction in the management of patients with symptomatic cancer-related unilateral vocal fold paralysis, and (2) to assess the impact of this treatment on patients' quality of life. Forty-two patients with cancer-related unilateral vocal fold paralysis underwent modified arytenoid adduction between February 2001 and December 2008. Of these, 37 patients were enrolled in this retrospective study (one patient died of primary disease and four were lost to follow up). Laryngostroboscopy was performed to evaluate vocal fold orientation and mobility. Pre- and post-operative assessment of subjective and objective voice, aerodynamic parameters, and quality of life were also undertaken, and aspiration was subjectively rated. Laryngostroboscopic findings indicated a significant post-operative improvement in vocal fold posterior glottal closure and vertical gap. Significant improvements in voice quality, aerodynamic parameters and quality of life were noted three months post-operatively in all patients (p < 0.01). The overall success rate for swallowing rehabilitation was 94.6 per cent (35/37). Subjective aspiration ratings decreased significantly post-operatively, compared with pre-operative values (p < 0.01). No major complication occurred in any patient, except for dyspnoea in one patient. Modified arytenoid adduction is an effective and reliable medialisation technique which can restore satisfactory voice quality, prevent aspiration and lead to a better quality of life for patients with cancer-related unilateral vocal fold paralysis.

Athlete's heart patterns in elite rugby players: effects of training specificities.

PubMed

Chevalier, Laurent; Kervio, Gaëlle; Corneloup, Luc; Vincent, Marie-Pierre; Baudot, Christophe; Rebeyrol, Jean-Louis; Merle, Francis; Gencel, Laurent; Carré, François

2013-02-01

Athlete's heart patterns have been widely described. However, to our knowledge, few studies have focused on professional rugby players, who train differently according to their field position. To describe electrocardiographic and echocardiographic patterns observed in elite rugby players according to their field position. One hundred and thirty-five professional rugby players at the end of the competitive season were included. According to a modified Pelliccia's classification, 68.1% of electrocardiograms were normal or had minor abnormalities, 27.2% were mildly abnormal and 3.7% were distinctly abnormal. Heart rate was higher in scrum first-row players (P<0.05). Absolute and indexed left ventricular end-diastolic internal diameters (LVIDd; absolute value 59.3±4.7 mm) exceeded 65 mm and 32 mm/m2 in 13% and 1.5% of players, respectively. Indexed LVIDd values were higher in back players (P<0.001). Left ventricular interventricular septum and posterior wall thicknesses (absolute values 9.4±1.7 mm and 9.2±1.6 mm, respectively) exceeded 13 mm in 3.7% of players. Concentric cardiac hypertrophy was noted in 3.7% of players. Except for one Wolff-Parkinson-White pattern, players with significant ECG or echocardiographic abnormalities showed no cardiovascular event or disease during follow-up. Thus, elite rugby players present similar heart patterns to elite athletes in other sports. Major electrocardiographic and echocardiographic abnormalities are quite rare. Eccentric cardiac remodelling is more frequent in back players. Copyright © 2013. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.

The field effect transistor DNA biosensor based on ITO nanowires in label-free hepatitis B virus detecting compatible with CMOS technology.

PubMed

Shariati, Mohsen

2018-05-15

In this paper the field-effect transistor DNA biosensor for detecting hepatitis B virus (HBV) based on indium tin oxide nanowires (ITO NWs) in label free approach has been fabricated. Because of ITO nanowires intensive conductance and functional modified surface, the probe immobilization and target hybridization were increased strongly. The high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) measurement showed that ITO nanowires were crystalline and less than 50nm in diameter. The single-stranded hepatitis B virus DNA (SS-DNA) was immobilized as probe on the Au-modified nanowires. The DNA targets were measured in a linear concentration range from 1fM to 10µM. The detection limit of the DNA biosensor was about 1fM. The time of the hybridization process for defined single strand was 90min. The switching ratio of the biosensor between "on" and "off" state was ~ 1.1 × 10 5 . For sensing the specificity of the biosensor, non-complementary, mismatch and complementary DNA oligonucleotide sequences were clearly discriminated. The HBV biosensor confirmed the highly satisfied specificity for differentiating complementary sequences from non-complementary and the mismatch oligonucleotides. The response time of the DNA sensor was 37s with a high reproducibility. The stability and repeatability of the DNA biosensor showed that the peak current of the biosensor retained 98% and 96% of its initial response for measurements after three and five weeks, respectively. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Hounsfield units are a useful predictor of pleural effusion cytological type in dogs but not in cats.

PubMed

Woods, Sarah J; Spriet, Mathieu; Safra, Noa; Cissell, Derek D; Borjesson, Dori L

2018-04-23

All categories of pleural effusion subjectively display as soft tissue opacity on computed tomography (CT). Quantitative measurement using Hounsfield units (HU) has the potential to bring additional information regarding the nature of the fluid in a noninvasive way. The purposes of this retrospective cross-sectional analytical study were to compare Hounsfield units of different pleural effusion categories in dogs and cats, assess association between specific cytologic parameters and Hounsfield units, and evaluate the effect of dependent vs. nondependent aspect of the effusion pool on Hounsfield unit. A total of 111 patients (74 dogs and 37 cats) with pleural effusion, that underwent thoracic CT and diagnostic thoracocentesis, were included in the study. Effusions were cytologically categorized as exudate, transudate, modified transudate, hemorrhage, or chyle. Significant differences existed in Hounsfield units between categories in dogs (P < 0.0001) but not in cats (P = 0.334). Canine chylous effusion (6.1 ± 4.7 HU (mean ± standard deviation)) and transudate (5.6 ± 2.0) were significantly lower than exudate (20.3 ± 9.5) and hemorrhage (21.4 ± 9.2). No significant differences were found between modified transudate (13.6 ± 10.3) and other categories. Significant, weak linear correlation was identified in dogs between Hounsfield units and total protein (P = 0.018, R   = 0.089), red blood cells (P = 0.021, R   = 0.077), and total nucleated cells (P = 0.013, R   = 0.089). The Hounsfield units of dependent effusion was not significantly higher than the nondependent effusion, except for canine chylous effusion (P = 0.008). Fourteen Hounsfield units was identified as the most clinically useful threshold: <14 HU identified transudate or chylous effusion with a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 69%. A threshold >14 HU had a specificity of 100% and a sensitivity of 69% for identifying exudate, modified transudate, or hemorrhage. © 2018 American College of Veterinary Radiology.

Purification, physicochemical characterization, saccharide specificity, and chemical modification of a Gal/GalNAc specific lectin from the seeds of Trichosanthes dioica.

PubMed

Sultan, Nabil Ali Mohammed; Kenoth, Roopa; Swamy, Musti J

2004-12-15

A new galactose-specific lectin has been purified from the extracts of Trichosanthes dioica seeds by affinity chromatography on cross-linked guar gum. The purified lectin (T. dioica seed lectin, TDSL) moved as a single symmetrical peak on gel filtration on Superose-12 in the presence of 0.1 M lactose with an M(r) of 55 kDa. In the absence of ligand, the movement was retarded, indicating a possible interaction of the lectin with the column matrix. In SDS-PAGE, in the presence of beta-mercaptoethanol, two non-identical bands of M(r) 24 and 37 kDa were observed, whereas in the absence of beta-mercaptoethanol, the lectin yielded a single band corresponding to approximately 55,000 Da, indicating that the two subunits of TDSL are connected by one or more disulfide bridges. TDSL is a glycoprotein with about 4.9% covalently bound neutral sugar. Analysis of near-UV CD spectrum by three different methods (CDSSTR, CONTINLL, and SELCON3) shows that TDSL contains 13.3% alpha-helix, 36.7% beta-sheet, 19.4% beta-turns, and 31.6% unordered structure. Among a battery of sugars investigated, TDSL was inhibited strongly by beta-d-galactopyranosides, with 4-methylumbelliferyl-beta-d-galactopyranoside being the best ligand. Chemical modification studies indicate that tyrosine residues are important for the carbohydrate-binding and hemagglutinating activities of the lectin. A partial protection was observed when the tyrosine modification was performed in the presence of 0.2 M lactose. The tryptophan residues of TDSL appear to be buried in the protein interior as they could not be modified under native conditions, whereas upon denaturation with 8 M urea two Trp residues could be selectively modified by N-bromosuccinimide. The subunit composition and size, secondary structure, and sugar specificity of this lectin are similar to those of type-2 ribosome inactivating proteins, suggesting that TDSL may belong to this protein family.

46 CFR 162.050-37 - Vibration test.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 46 Shipping 6 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Vibration test. 162.050-37 Section 162.050-37 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) EQUIPMENT, CONSTRUCTION, AND MATERIALS: SPECIFICATIONS AND APPROVAL ENGINEERING EQUIPMENT Pollution Prevention Equipment § 162.050-37 Vibration test. (a...

The DREAM complex through its subunit Lin37 cooperates with Rb to initiate quiescence

PubMed Central

Mages, Christina FS; Wintsche, Axel; Bernhart, Stephan H

2017-01-01

The retinoblastoma Rb protein is an important factor controlling the cell cycle. Yet, mammalian cells carrying Rb deletions are still able to arrest under growth-limiting conditions. The Rb-related proteins p107 and p130, which are components of the DREAM complex, had been suggested to be responsible for a continued ability to arrest by inhibiting E2f activity and by recruiting chromatin-modifying enzymes. Here, we show that p130 and p107 are not sufficient for DREAM-dependent repression. We identify the MuvB protein Lin37 as an essential factor for DREAM function. Cells not expressing Lin37 proliferate normally, but DREAM completely loses its ability to repress genes in G0/G1 while all remaining subunits, including p130/p107, still bind to target gene promoters. Furthermore, cells lacking both Rb and Lin37 are incapable of exiting the cell cycle. Thus, Lin37 is an essential component of DREAM that cooperates with Rb to induce quiescence. PMID:28920576

Amino acid signature enables proteins to recognize modified tRNA.

PubMed

Spears, Jessica L; Xiao, Xingqing; Hall, Carol K; Agris, Paul F

2014-02-25

Human tRNA(Lys3)UUU is the primer for HIV replication. The HIV-1 nucleocapsid protein, NCp7, facilitates htRNA(Lys3)UUU recruitment from the host cell by binding to and remodeling the tRNA structure. Human tRNA(Lys3)UUU is post-transcriptionally modified, but until recently, the importance of those modifications in tRNA recognition by NCp7 was unknown. Modifications such as the 5-methoxycarbonylmethyl-2-thiouridine at anticodon wobble position-34 and 2-methylthio-N(6)-threonylcarbamoyladenosine, adjacent to the anticodon at position-37, are important to the recognition of htRNA(Lys3)UUU by NCp7. Several short peptides selected from phage display libraries were found to also preferentially recognize these modifications. Evolutionary algorithms (Monte Carlo and self-consistent mean field) and assisted model building with energy refinement were used to optimize the peptide sequence in silico, while fluorescence assays were developed and conducted to verify the in silico results and elucidate a 15-amino acid signature sequence (R-W-Q/N-H-X2-F-Pho-X-G/A-W-R-X2-G, where X can be most amino acids, and Pho is hydrophobic) that recognized the tRNA's fully modified anticodon stem and loop domain, hASL(Lys3)UUU. Peptides of this sequence specifically recognized and bound modified htRNA(Lys3)UUU with an affinity 10-fold higher than that of the starting sequence. Thus, this approach provides an effective means of predicting sequences of RNA binding peptides that have better binding properties. Such peptides can be used in cell and molecular biology as well as biochemistry to explore RNA binding proteins and to inhibit those protein functions.

Do People With Psychosis Have Specific Difficulties Regulating Emotions?

PubMed

Lincoln, Tania M; Hartmann, Maike; Köther, Ulf; Moritz, Steffen

2015-01-01

Difficulties in emotion regulation (ER) are present in psychotic disorders, but their precise nature is not yet fully understood and it is unclear which difficulties are unique to psychosis compared with other disorders. This study investigated whether ER difficulties in psychosis are more prominent for the ability to modify emotions or for the ability to tolerate and accept them. Furthermore, it investigated whether ER difficulties occur for sadness, anxiety, anger and shame likewise. ER skills were assessed in participants with psychotic disorders (n = 37), participants with depression (n = 30) and healthy controls (n = 28) using the Emotion Regulation Skill Questionnaire that asks participants to rate the intensity of different emotions over the past week and the skills employed to handle each of them. Compared with healthy controls, participants with psychosis showed reduced skills related to awareness, understanding and acceptance of potentially distressing emotions, but not in the ability to modify them. These differences remained significant after controlling for depression. Participants with psychosis showed reduced ER skills in regard to all of the assessed emotions compared with the healthy controls, despite the fact that they only reported sadness as being significantly more intense. The participants with depression showed a similar pattern of ER skills to the psychosis sample, although with a tendency towards even more pronounced difficulties. It is concluded that psychosis is characterized by difficulties in using specific ER skills related to awareness, understanding and acceptance to regulate anger, shame, anxiety and sadness. These difficulties are not unique to psychosis but nevertheless present a promising treatment target. The participants with psychosis found it more difficult to be aware of their emotions, to understand them and to accept them than the healthy control group. However, they reported equal skills when it came to actively modifying emotions. The difficulties in emotion regulation reported by the participants with psychosis were comparable with those reported by the participants with depression, and they occurred for all types of negative emotions likewise. The difficulties in using specific ER skills related to awareness, understanding and acceptance are a promising target for psychological treatment of psychosis. Interventions that are aimed specifically at increasing these skills need to be further developed. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Second Generation RLV Program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Laue, Jay

2001-01-01

During the time period covered by this report, SAIC: 1) Continued to develop and assess processes and approaches that can be applied to Second Generation Reuseable Launch Vehicles (RLV) technologies prioritization. An approach based on the use of analytic Saaty scale functions has been defined and is being investigated. 2) Planned and facilitated technologies prioritization workshops, supported development of systems program algorithms based on the concept of influence diagramming, and assessment of analogies between aircraft and space systems developments. 3) Video interviews held with X-37 personnel at Dryden. The CD-ROM is being concluded and a near-final review disc is expected soon. 4) CD-ROMS were produced by Engineered Multimedia, Inc. (EMI) under subcontract to SAIC. These two CD-ROM products, "Microgravity" and "New Horizons", were delivered to MSFS technical representatives at a briefing at SAID on January 18, 2001. 5) Presentation brochure, "Aviation/Space Analog Team Interim Report" was provided to Space Propulsion Synergy Team (SPST) members and to NASA personnel. Wrap-up of effort will be a mid-April briefing to both MSFC and the full SPST membership. Support to Phase 2 of CCPD ends 3/31/01. Phase 3 continuation effort planned with emphasis on technical info content. 6) Recommended that eliminating the B-52 flights of the X-37 in favor of alternate approached be evaluated. Discovered that a required change to the thruster valves of the X-37 had not been made. Repair work continues on the lower fuselage section of the X-37, in the areas that experienced core collapse. The currently catalogued potential weight increases and decreases are about equal, but this does not include the impact of the cable weight underestimate reported earlier. The CFD for RCS testing correlates well with the wind tunnel data. 7) The Level IV CCB approved SCN-4 to the MC-1 Engine SPecification. Approved changes have been incorporated into the specification, and Revision D has been released to the Repository. Billy Gonterman, SAIC, traveled to SSC to perform a five-day readiness assessment on the progress of facilities activation. Implemented modifications to the MC-1 Engine TPA Component Database. 8) Replaced 25 Combined-Cycle Propulsion Database (CCPD) documents; modified the low-on screen to include a direct email link for user contact; prepared a summary presentation of current and proposed tasks.

The Effectiveness of CBT in 3–7 Year Old Anxious Children: Preliminary Data

PubMed Central

Minde, Klaus; Roy, Jason; Bezonsky, Rhona; Hashemi, Alireza

2010-01-01

Introduction: While CBT has been found to be an effective treatment for anxious older children, it has not been empirically validated in children younger than 8 years. In this study we report on an open pilot trial to establish whether a modified form of CBT can benefit young children. Methods: Participants were 37 anxious children aged 37–89 months attending a university anxiety specialty clinic. Symptom severity and functioning were assessed before and after treatment by independent evaluators. Feasibility and acceptability of the intervention were high. Parents attended part of each treatment session and were considered part of the treatment team. Results: Patients exhibited significant improvement from pre – to post-treatment assessments after an average of 8.3 treatment sessions, using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) and the Global Assessment of Functioning Scale (GAF) ratings. Conclusions: A modified form of CBT with active parent involvement may be a useful tool in treating anxiety disorders in preschool and early school aged children. PMID:20467547

Chromatin- and temperature-dependent modulation of radiation-induced double-strand breaks.

PubMed

Elmroth, K; Nygren, J; Stenerlöw, B; Hultborn, R

2003-10-01

To investigate the influence of chromatin organization and scavenging capacity in relation to irradiation temperature on the induction of double-strand breaks (DSB) in structures derived from human diploid fibroblasts. Agarose plugs with different chromatin structures (intact cells+/-wortmannin, permeabilized cells with condensed chromatin, nucleoids and DNA) were prepared and irradiated with X-rays at 2 or 37 degrees C and lysed using two different lysis protocols (new ice-cold lysis or standard lysis at 37 degrees C). Induction of DSB was determined by constant-field gel electrophoresis. The dose-modifying factor (DMF(temp)) for irradiation at 37 compared with 2 degrees C was 0.92 in intact cells (i.e. more DSB induced at 2 degrees C), but gradually increased to 1.5 in permeabilized cells, 2.2 in nucleoids and 2.6 in naked DNA, suggesting a role of chromatin organization for temperature modulation of DNA damage. In addition, DMF(temp) was influenced by the presence of 0.1 M DMSO or 30 mM glutathione, but not by post-irradiation temperature. The protective effect of low temperature was correlated to the indirect effects of ionizing radiation and was not dependent on post-irradiation temperature. Reasons for a dose modifying factor <1 in intact cells are discussed.

42 CFR 37.94 - Respiratory assessment form.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 42 Public Health 1 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Respiratory assessment form. 37.94 Section 37.94... EXAMINATIONS SPECIFICATIONS FOR MEDICAL EXAMINATIONS OF COAL MINERS Spirometry Examinations § 37.94 Respiratory... complete a Respiratory Assessment form (Form CDC/NIOSH (M)2.13), available at http://www.cdc.gov/niosh...

42 CFR 37.40 - General provisions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... Health PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES MEDICAL CARE AND EXAMINATIONS SPECIFICATIONS FOR MEDICAL EXAMINATIONS OF COAL MINERS Chest Radiographic Examinations Specifications for... the presence of pneumoconiosis; or (2) By a radiologic technologist as defined in § 37.2. [77 FR 56729...

GEMINI-TITAN (GT)-4 - EARTH-SKY - OUTER SPACE

NASA Image and Video Library

1965-06-01

S65-34670 (3-7 June 1965) --- Richat crater in northwest Africa taken from the Gemini-4 spacecraft. Photograph was taken with a modified 70mm Hasselblad camera, using Eastman color film, ASA 64, at a lens setting of 250th of a second at f/11.

Laboratory study of test methods for polymer modified asphalt in hot mix pavement.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1989-11-01

Increasing use of asphalt binders modified with elastomeric or plastic modifiers makes the specification of binders a difficult task. Ideally, a generic specification would allow various suppliers and additives to compete based on expected performanc...

Effect of specific activity on neuroblastoma uptake of I-123-meta-iodobenzylguanidine in nude mice xenografted with SK-N-SH cells.

PubMed

Farahati, J; Coenen, H; Dutschka, K; Stuben, G; Knuhmann, K; Budach, W; Kremens, B; Reiners, C

1997-01-01

The effect of specific activity of meta[I-123]iodobenzylguanidine ([I-123]MIBG) on neuroblastoma uptake was studied in a nude mouse model (NMRI nu/nu) xenografted subcutaneously with SK-N-SH cells. Groups of eight animals received [I-123]MIBG intravenously with a specific activity of greater than or equal to 260 GBq/mu mol (no-carrier-added), 3.7 GBq/mu mol, 37 MBq/mu mol, and 0.37 MBq/mu mol, respectively. All animals in the group injected with 0.37 MBq/mu mol died immediately after the injection. Al 4 and 24 h, there was no significant effect of specific activity on tumor uptake of [I-123]MIBG in the different groups. The uptake of non-tumor tissue was in general lower with 37 MBq/mu mol compared to higher specific activities. The differences in blood, heart, liver, spleen and lungs were statistically significant at 24 h, whereas at 4 h significant differences were only present in the heart, liver and lungs. The results suggest that for the treatment of children with neuroblastoma a lower specific activity of radioiodinated MIBG may minimize the radiation exposure to non-tumor tissue but not to the tumor. Higher mass of MIBG >0.5 mu mol/g, however, is considered as lethal dose in our nude mice model and corresponding doses may cause toxic side effects in human.

32 CFR 37.645 - Must I require periodic audits, as well as award-specific audits, of for-profit participants?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... amounts or adjusts performance outcomes. The periodic audit provides some assurance that the reported... 32 National Defense 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Must I require periodic audits, as well as award-specific audits, of for-profit participants? 37.645 Section 37.645 National Defense Department of Defense...

Microembolism after Endovascular Treatment of Unruptured Cerebral Aneurysms: Reduction of its Incidence by Microcatheter Lumen Aspiration

PubMed Central

Kim, Dae Yoon; Park, Jung Cheol; Kim, Jae Kyun; Sung, Yu Sub; Park, Eun Suk; Kwak, Jae Hyuk; Choi, Choong-Gon

2015-01-01

Purpose Diffusion-weighted MR images (DWI) obtained after endovascular treatment of cerebral aneurysms frequently show multiple high-signal intensity (HSI) dots. The purpose of this study was to see whether we could reduce their incidence after embolization of unruptured cerebral aneurysms by modification of our coiling technique, which involves the deliberate aspiration of the microcatheter lumen right after delivery of each detachable coil into the aneurysm sac. Materials and Methods From January 2011 to June 2011, all 71 patients with unruptured cerebral aneurysms were treated using various endovascular methods. During the earlier period, 37 patients were treated using our conventional embolization technique (conventional period). Then 34 patients were treated with a modified coiling technique (modified period). DWI was obtained on the following day. We compared the occurrence of any DWI HSI lesions and the presence of the symptomatic lesions during the two time periods. Results The incidence of the DWI HSI lesions differed significantly at 89.2% (33/37) during the conventional period and 26.5% (9/34) during the modified period (p < 0.0001). The incidence of symptomatic lesions differed between the two periods (29.7% during the conventional period vs. 2.9% during the modified period, p < 0.003). Conclusion Aspiration of the inner content of the microcatheter right after detachable coil delivery was helpful for the reduction of the incidence of microembolisms after endovascular coil embolization for the treatment of unruptured cerebral aneurysms. PMID:26389009

40 CFR 268.37 - Waste specific prohibitions-ignitable and corrosive characteristic wastes whose treatment...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) SOLID WASTES (CONTINUED) LAND DISPOSAL RESTRICTIONS Prohibitions on Land Disposal § 268.37 Waste specific prohibitions—ignitable and corrosive... 40 Protection of Environment 27 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Waste specific prohibitions-ignitable...

40 CFR 268.37 - Waste specific prohibitions-ignitable and corrosive characteristic wastes whose treatment...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) SOLID WASTES (CONTINUED) LAND DISPOSAL RESTRICTIONS Prohibitions on Land Disposal § 268.37 Waste specific prohibitions—ignitable and corrosive... 40 Protection of Environment 28 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Waste specific prohibitions-ignitable...

40 CFR 268.37 - Waste specific prohibitions-ignitable and corrosive characteristic wastes whose treatment...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) SOLID WASTES (CONTINUED) LAND DISPOSAL RESTRICTIONS Prohibitions on Land Disposal § 268.37 Waste specific prohibitions—ignitable and corrosive... 40 Protection of Environment 27 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Waste specific prohibitions-ignitable...

40 CFR 268.37 - Waste specific prohibitions-ignitable and corrosive characteristic wastes whose treatment...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) SOLID WASTES (CONTINUED) LAND DISPOSAL RESTRICTIONS Prohibitions on Land Disposal § 268.37 Waste specific prohibitions—ignitable and corrosive... 40 Protection of Environment 28 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Waste specific prohibitions-ignitable...

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

Vendeix, Franck A.P.; Murphy, IV, Frank V.; Cantara, William A.

Human tRNA Lys3 UUU (htRNA Lys3 UUU) decodes the lysine codons AAA and AAG during translation and also plays a crucial role as the primer for HIV-1 (human immunodeficiency virus type 1) reverse transcription. The posttranscriptional modifications 5-methoxycarbonylmethyl-2-thiouridine (mcm 5s 2U 34), 2-methylthio-N 6-threonylcarbamoyladenosine (ms 2t 6A 37), and pseudouridine (Ψ 39) in the tRNA's anticodon domain are critical for ribosomal binding and HIV-1 reverse transcription. To understand the importance of modified nucleoside contributions, we determined the structure and function of this tRNA's anticodon stem and loop (ASL) domain with these modifications at positions 34, 37, and 39, respectively (hASLmore » Lys3 UUU-mcm 5s 2U 34;ms 2t 6A 37;Ψ 39). Ribosome binding assays in vitro revealed that the hASL Lys3 UUU-mcm 5s 2U 34;ms 2t 6A 37;Ψ 39 bound AAA and AAG codons, whereas binding of the unmodified ASL Lys3 UUU was barely detectable. The UV hyperchromicity, the circular dichroism, and the structural analyses indicated that Ψ 39 enhanced the thermodynamic stability of the ASL through base stacking while ms 2t 6A 37 restrained the anticodon to adopt an open loop conformation that is required for ribosomal binding. The NMR-restrained molecular-dynamics-derived solution structure revealed that the modifications provided an open, ordered loop for codon binding. The crystal structures of the hASL Lys3 UUU-mcm 5s 2U 34;ms 2t 6A 37;Ψ 39 bound to the 30S ribosomal subunit with each codon in the A site showed that the modified nucleotides mcm 5s 2U 34 and ms 2t 6A 37 participate in the stability of the anticodon–codon interaction. Importantly, the mcm 5s 2U 34·G 3 wobble base pair is in the Watson–Crick geometry, requiring unusual hydrogen bonding to G in which mcm 5s 2U 34 must shift from the keto to the enol form. The results unambiguously demonstrate that modifications pre-structure the anticodon as a key prerequisite for efficient and accurate recognition of cognate and wobble codons.« less

Intraperitoneal temperature and desiccation during endoscopic surgery. Intraoperative humidification and cooling of the peritoneal cavity can reduce adhesions.

PubMed

Corona, Roberta; Verguts, Jasper; Koninckx, Robert; Mailova, Karina; Binda, Maria Mercedes; Koninckx, Philippe R

2011-10-01

This study was conducted to document quantitatively the intraperitoneal temperature and desiccation during laparoscopic surgery. The temperature, relative humidity, and flow rate were measured in vitro and during laparoscopic surgery, at the entrance and at the exit of the abdomen. This permitted us to calculate desiccation for various flow rates using either dry CO(2) or CO(2) humidified with 100% relative humidity at any preset temperature between 25 and 37°C. The study showed that desiccation, both in vitro and in vivo, varies as expected with the flow rates and relative humidity while intraperitoneal temperature varies mainly with desiccation. Temperature regulation of bowels is specific and drops to the intraperitoneal temperature without affecting core body temperature. With a modified humidifier, desiccation could be eliminated while maintaining the intraperitoneal temperature between 31 to 32°C. Copyright © 2011 Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

Low Temperature and Modified Atmosphere: Hurdles for Antibiotic Resistance Transfer?

PubMed

Van Meervenne, Eva; Van Coillie, Els; Van Weyenberg, Stephanie; Boon, Nico; Herman, Lieve; Devlieghere, Frank

2015-12-01

Food is an important dissemination route for antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Factors used during food production and preservation may contribute to the transfer of antibiotic resistance genes, but research on this subject is scarce. In this study, the effect of temperature (7 to 37°C) and modified atmosphere packaging (air, 50% CO2-50% N2, and 100% N2) on antibiotic resistance transfer from Lactobacillus sakei subsp. sakei to Listeria monocytogenes was evaluated. Filter mating was performed on nonselective agar plates with high-density inocula. A more realistic setup was created by performing modified atmosphere experiments on cooked ham using high-density and low-density inocula. Plasmid transfer was observed between 10 and 37°C, with plasmid transfer also observed at 7°C during a prolonged incubation period. When high-density inocula were used, transconjugants were detected, both on agar plates and cooked ham, under the three atmospheres (air, 50% CO2-50% N2, and 100% N2) at 7°C. This yielded a median transfer ratio (number of transconjugants/number of recipients) with an order of magnitude of 10(-4) to 10(-6). With low-density inocula, transfer was only detected under the 100% N2 atmosphere after 10-day incubation at 7°C, yielding a transfer ratio of 10(-5). Under this condition, the highest bacterial density was obtained. The results indicate that low temperature and modified atmosphere packaging, two important hurdles in the food industry, do not necessarily prevent plasmid transfer from Lactobacillus sakei subsp. sakei to Listeria monocytogenes.

Onyx Embolization Before the Surgical Treatment of Grade III Spetzler-Martin Brain Arteriovenous Malformations: Single-Center Experience and Technical Nuances.

PubMed

Luzzi, Sabino; Del Maestro, Mattia; Bongetta, Daniele; Zoia, Cesare; Giordano, Aldo V; Trovarelli, Donatella; Raysi Dehcordi, Sohelia; Galzio, Renato J

2018-05-09

Grade III Spetzler-Martin brain arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are a specific set of AVMs with high variability in terms of site, size, angioarchitecture, flow dynamics, and involvement of eloquent areas. Surgery preceded by preoperative embolization has been reported as a useful treatment option for these lesions. The aim of this study is to report outcomes and personal experience of combined preoperative Onyx embolization and surgical resection on a consecutive series of grade III brain AVMs. Between 2005 and 2017, 27 grade III AVMs were treated by means of a staged Onyx embolization and subsequent surgical treatment. Site and size of the AVMs, embolization, and surgical specifics as well as complications and outcomes were retrospectively reviewed. All AVMs were supratentorial, 13 of which were hemorrhagic. Mean nidal volume was 19.5 mL. Average embolization sessions were 1.6. Mean embolization-related obliteration rate and morbidity were 28.8% and 3.7%, respectively. Surgery was performed within 3.7 days on average. In our experience, Onyx embolization made the nidus excision easier, facilitated the hemostasis, and contributed to the early identification of the lesion in cases of small or racemose nidus. The surgical obliteration rate was 92.6%. A good overall outcome (modified Rankin Scale score 0-2) was achieved in 70.4% of patients. In our experience, preoperative Onyx embolization helped the surgical management of grade III Spetzler-Martin brain AVMs. Careful evaluation of the angioarchitecture, a tailored strategy in the embolization process, and full cooperation within the neurosurgical-neuroendovascular team are mandatory. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

40 CFR 721.9285 - Reaction products of formalin (37%) with amine C12.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 30 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Reaction products of formalin (37... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.9285 Reaction products of formalin (37%) with amine C12. (a) Chemical... as reaction products of formalin (37%) with amine C12 (PMN P-95-535) is subject to reporting under...

40 CFR 721.9285 - Reaction products of formalin (37%) with amine C12.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 31 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Reaction products of formalin (37... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.9285 Reaction products of formalin (37%) with amine C12. (a) Chemical... as reaction products of formalin (37%) with amine C12 (PMN P-95-535) is subject to reporting under...

Monitoring the presence of genetically modified food on the market of the Republic of Croatia.

PubMed

Cattunar, Albert; Capak, Krunoslav; Novak, Jelena Zafran; Mićović, Vladimir; Doko-Jelinić, Jagoda; Malatestinić, Dulija

2011-12-01

From the beginning of the human race people have been applying different methods to change the genetic material of either plants or animals in order to increase their yield as well as to improve the quality and quantity of food. Genetically modified organism (GMO) means an organism in which the genetic material has been altered in a way that does not occur naturally by mating and/or natural recombination. Analysing the presence of GMO in food is done by detecting the presence of either specific DNA sequences inserted in the genome of transgenic organism, or detecting proteins as a result of the expression of the inserted DNA. In this work food testing for the presence of genetically modified organisms was conducted during the period from 2004 to 2007 in the GMO laboratory of the Croatian National Institute of Public Health. According to the regulations, among the samples in which the presence of GMO was detected, all those which had more than 0.9% of GMO content were either rejected from the border or removed from the market, because such GM food has to be appropriately labelled. Among the food samples which were analysed in 2004: 127 (2.37%) of a total of 1226 samples contained more than 0.9% of GMOs; in 2005 there was only one in 512 (0.20%) samples in total; in 2006 there were 4 out of 404 samples (0.99%), and in 2007: 7 of a total of 655 samples (1.07%) had GMO content above the allowed threshold of 0.9%.

Bilirubin nomogram for prediction of significant hyperbilirubinemia in north Indian neonates.

PubMed

Pathak, Umesh; Chawla, Deepak; Kaur, Saranjit; Jain, Suksham

2013-04-01

(i) To construct hour-specific serum total bilirubin (STB) nomogram in neonates born at =35 weeks of gestation; (ii)To evaluate efficacy of pre-discharge bilirubin measurement in predicting hyperbilirubinemia needing treatment. Diagnostic test performance in a prospective cohort study. Teaching hospital in Northern India. Healthy neonates with gestation =35 weeks or birth weight =2000 g. Serum total bilirubin was measured in all enrolled neonates at 24 ± 6, 72-96 and 96-144 h of postnatal age and when indicated clinically. Neonates were followed up during hospital stay and after discharge till completion of 7th postnatal day. Key outcome was significant hyperbilirubinemia (SHB) defined as need of phototherapy based on modified American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) guidelines. In neonates born at 38 or more weeks of gestation middle line and in neonates born at 37 or less completed weeks of gestation, lower line of phototherapy thresholds were used to initiate phototherapy. For construction of nomogram, STB values were clubbed in six-hour epochs (age ± 3 hours) for postnatal age up to 48 h and twelve-hour epochs (age ± 6 hours) for age beyond 48 h. Predictive ability of the nomogram was assessed by calculating sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and likelihood ratio, by plotting receiver-operating characteristics (ROC) curve and calculating c-statistic. 997 neonates (birth weight: 2627 ± 536 g, gestation: 37.8 ± 1.5 weeks) were enrolled, of which 931 completed followup. Among enrolled neonates 344 (34.5%) were low birth weight. Rate of exclusive breastfeeding during hospital stay was more than 80%. Bilirubin nomogram was constructed using 40th, 75th and 95th percentile values of hour-specific bilirubin. Pre-discharge STB of =95th percentile was assigned to be in high-risk zone, between 75th and 94th centile in upper-intermediate risk zone, between 40th and 74th centile in lower-intermediate risk zone and below 40th percentile in low-risk zone. Among 49 neonates with pre-discharge STB in high risk zone. 34 developed SHB (positive predictive value: 69.4%, sensitivity: 17.1%, positive likelihood ratio: 8.26). Among 342 neonates with pre-discharge STB in low risk zone, 32 developed PHB (negative predictive value: 90.6% and specificity: 42.5%, positive likelihood ratio: 0.37). Area under curve for this risk assessment strategy was 0.73. Hour-specific bilirubin nomogram and STB measurement can be used for predicting subsequent need of phototherapy. Further studies are needed to validate performance of risk demarcation zones defined in this hour-specific bilirubin nomogram.

Initial body temperature in ischemic stroke: nonpotentiation of tissue-type plasminogen activator benefit and inverse association with severity.

PubMed

Kim, Seo Hyun; Saver, Jeffrey L

2015-01-01

Body temperature (BT) is an important physiological factor in acute ischemic stroke. However, the relationship of initial BT to stroke severity and degree of benefit from thrombolytic therapy has been delineated incompletely. We analyzed the public data set of the 2 National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Tissue-Type Plasminogen Activator (tPA) stroke trials, comparing patients with lower (<37.0°C) and higher (≥37.0°C) presenting BT. Among 595 patients (297 placebo and 298 tPA treated) with documented initial BT, 77.1% had initial BT <37.0°C and 22.9% ≥37.0°C. Patients with higher initial BT had lower baseline stroke severity in both tPA-treated patients (the National Institute of Health Stroke Scale median, 11 versus 15; P=0.05) and placebo-treated patients (median, 13 versus 16; P<0.01). Patients with higher initial BT also had lower infarction volume on computed tomography at 3 months in both tPA-treated patients (median, 9.6 versus 16.7 cm(3); P=0.08) and placebo-treated patients (median, 13.1 versus 28.1 cm(3); P=0.02), but no clinical outcome differences. Analysis of lytic treatment effect found no heterogeneity in the degree of tPA benefit in both higher and lower BT groups (≥37.0°C: odds ratio for the modified Rankin Scale 0-1 outcome, 2.55; 95% confidence interval, 1.05-6.21 and <37.0°C: odds ratio, 2.30; 95% confidence interval, 1.38-3.84; heterogeneity P=0.83). In patients with hyperacute stroke, higher presenting temperatures are associated with less severe neurological deficits and reduced final infarct volumes. Presenting temperature does not modify the benefit of tPA on 3-month favorable outcome. © 2014 American Heart Association, Inc.

Catalytically active alkaline molten globular enzyme: Effect of pH and temperature on the structural integrity of 5-aminolevulinate synthase*

PubMed Central

Stojanovski, Bosko M.; Breydo, Leonid; Hunter, Gregory A.; Uversky, Vladimir N.; Ferreira, Gloria C.

2014-01-01

5-Aminolevulinate synthase (ALAS), a pyridoxal-5′phosphate (PLP)-dependent enzyme, catalyzes the first step of heme biosynthesis in mammals. Circular dichroism (CD) and fluorescence spectroscopies were used to examine the effects of pH (1.0–3.0 and 7.5–10.5) and temperature (20 and 37 °C) on the structural integrity of ALAS. The secondary structure, as deduced from far-UV CD, is mostly resilient to pH and temperature changes. Partial unfolding was observed at pH 2.0, but further decreasing pH resulted in acid-induced refolding of the secondary structure to nearly native levels. The tertiary structure rigidity, monitored by near-UV CD, is lost under acidic and specific alkaline conditions (pH 10.5 and pH 9.5/37 °C), where ALAS populates a molten globule state. As the enzyme becomes less structured with increased alkalinity, the chiral environment of the internal aldimine is also modified, with a shift from a 420 nm to 330 nm dichroic band. Under acidic conditions, the PLP cofactor dissociates from ALAS. Reaction with 8-anilino-1-naphtalenesulfonic acid corroborates increased exposure of hydrophobic clusters in the alkaline and acidic molten globules, although the reaction is more pronounced with the latter. Furthermore, quenching the intrinsic fluorescence of ALAS with acrylamide at pH 1.0 and 9.5 yielded subtly different dynamic quenching constants. The alkaline molten globule state of ALAS is catalytically active (pH 9.5/37 °C), although the kcat value is significantly decreased. Finally, the binding of 5-aminolevulinate restricts conformational fluctuations in the alkaline molten globule. Overall, our findings prove how the structural plasticity of ALAS contributes to reaching a functional enzyme. PMID:25240868

Dopamine-2 receptor extracellular N-terminus regulates receptor surface availability and is the target of human pathogenic antibodies from children with movement and psychiatric disorders.

PubMed

Sinmaz, Nese; Tea, Fiona; Pilli, Deepti; Zou, Alicia; Amatoury, Mazen; Nguyen, Tina; Merheb, Vera; Ramanathan, Sudarshini; Cooper, Sandra T; Dale, Russell C; Brilot, Fabienne

2016-12-01

Anti-Dopamine-2 receptor (D2R) antibodies have been recently identified in a subgroup of children with autoimmune movement and psychiatric disorders, however the epitope(s) and mechanism of pathogenicity remain unknown. Here we report a major biological role for D2R extracellular N-terminus as a regulator of receptor surface availability, and as a major epitope targeted and impaired in brain autoimmunity. In transfected human cells, purified anti-D2R antibody from patients specifically and significantly reduced human D2R surface levels. Next, human D2R mutants modified in their extracellular domains were subcloned, and we analyzed the region bound by 35 anti-D2R antibody-positive patient sera using quantitative flow cytometry on live transfected cells. We found that N-glycosylation at amino acids N5 and/or N17 was critical for high surface expression in interaction with the last 15 residues of extracellular D2R N-terminus. No anti-D2R antibody-positive patient sera bound to the three extracellular loops, but all patient sera (35/35) targeted the extracellular N-terminus. Overall, patient antibody binding was dependent on two main regions encompassing amino acids 20 to 29, and 23 to 37. Residues 20 to 29 contributed to the majority of binding (77%, 27/35), among which 26% (7/27) sera bound to amino acids R20, P21, and F22, 37% (10/27) patients were dependent on residues at positions 26 and 29, that are different between humans and mice, and 30% (8/27) sera required R20, P21, F22, N23, D26, and A29. Seven patient sera bound to the region 23 to 37 independently of D26 and A29, but most sera exhibited N-glycosylation-independent epitope recognition at N23. Interestingly, no evident segregation of binding pattern according to patient clinical phenotype was observed. D2R N-terminus is a central epitope in autoimmune movement and psychiatric disorders and this knowledge could help the design of novel specific immune therapies tailored to improve patient outcome.

A modified two-layer iteration via a boundary point approach to generalized multivalued pseudomonotone mixed variational inequalities.

PubMed

Saddeek, Ali Mohamed

2017-01-01

Most mathematical models arising in stationary filtration processes as well as in the theory of soft shells can be described by single-valued or generalized multivalued pseudomonotone mixed variational inequalities with proper convex nondifferentiable functionals. Therefore, for finding the minimum norm solution of such inequalities, the current paper attempts to introduce a modified two-layer iteration via a boundary point approach and to prove its strong convergence. The results here improve and extend the corresponding recent results announced by Badriev, Zadvornov and Saddeek (Differ. Equ. 37:934-942, 2001).

NASA integrated vehicle health management technology experiment for X-37

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schwabacher, Mark; Samuels, Jeff; Brownston, Lee

2002-07-01

The NASA Integrated Vehicle Health Management (IVHM) Technology Experiment for X-37 was intended to run IVHM software on board the X-37 spacecraft. The X-37 is an unpiloted vehicle designed to orbit the Earth for up to 21 days before landing on a runway. The objectives of the experiment were to demonstrate the benefits of in-flight IVHM to the operation of a Reusable Launch Vehicle, to advance the Technology Readiness Level of this IVHM technology within a flight environment, and to demonstrate that the IVHM software could operate on the Vehicle Management Computer. The scope of the experiment was to perform real-time fault detection and isolation for X-37's electrical power system and electro-mechanical actuators. The experiment used Livingstone, a software system that performs diagnosis using a qualitative, model-based reasoning approach that searches system-wide interactions to detect and isolate failures. Two of the challenges we faced were to make this research software more efficient so that it would fit within the limited computational resources that were available to us on the X-37 spacecraft, and to modify it so that it satisfied the X-37's software safety requirements. Although the experiment is currently unfunded, the development effort resulted in major improvements in Livingstone's efficiency and safety. This paper reviews some of the details of the modeling and integration efforts, and some of the lessons that were learned.

Modifying the baricity of local anesthetics for spinal anesthesia by temperature adjustment: model calculations.

PubMed

Heller, Axel R; Zimmermann, Katrin; Seele, Kristin; Rössel, Thomas; Koch, Thea; Litz, Rainer J

2006-08-01

Although local anesthetics (LAs) are hyperbaric at room temperature, density drops within minutes after administration into the subarachnoid space. LAs become hypobaric and therefore may cranially ascend during spinal anesthesia in an uncontrolled manner. The authors hypothesized that temperature and density of LA solutions have a nonlinear relation that may be described by a polynomial equation, and that conversion of this equation may provide the temperature at which individual LAs are isobaric. Density of cerebrospinal fluid was measured using a vibrating tube densitometer. Temperature-dependent density data were obtained from all LAs commonly used for spinal anesthesia, at least in triplicate at 5 degrees, 20 degrees, 30 degrees, and 37 degrees C. The hypothesis was tested by fitting the obtained data into polynomial mathematical models allowing calculations of substance-specific isobaric temperatures. Cerebrospinal fluid at 37 degrees C had a density of 1.000646 +/- 0.000086 g/ml. Three groups of local anesthetics with similar temperature (T, degrees C)-dependent density (rho) characteristics were identified: articaine and mepivacaine, rho1(T) = 1.008-5.36 E-06 T2 (heavy LAs, isobaric at body temperature); L-bupivacaine, rho2(T) = 1.007-5.46 E-06 T2 (intermediate LA, less hypobaric than saline); bupivacaine, ropivacaine, prilocaine, and lidocaine, rho3(T) = 1.0063-5.0 E-06 T (light LAs, more hypobaric than saline). Isobaric temperatures (degrees C) were as follows: 5 mg/ml bupivacaine, 35.1; 5 mg/ml L-bupivacaine, 37.0; 5 mg/ml ropivacaine, 35.1; 20 mg/ml articaine, 39.4. Sophisticated measurements and mathematic models now allow calculation of the ideal injection temperature of LAs and, thus, even better control of LA distribution within the cerebrospinal fluid. The given formulae allow the adaptation on subpopulations with varying cerebrospinal fluid density.

Modified pseudomonas oleovorans phaC1 nucleic acids encoding bispecific polyhydroxyalkanoate polymerase

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

Srienc, Friedrich; Jackson, John K.; Somers, David A.

A genetically engineered Pseudomonas oleovorans phaC1 polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) polymerase having tailored substrate specificity is provided. The modified PHA polymerase is preferably a "bispecific" PHA polymerase capable of copolymerizing a short chain length monomer and a medium chain length monomer is provided. Methods for making the modified PHA polymerase and for making nucleic acids encoding the modified PHA polymerase are also disclosed, as are methods of producing PHA using the modified PHA polymerase. The invention further includes methods to assay for altered substrate specificity.

Generation and Partial Characterization of Rabbit Monoclonal Antibody to Amyloid-β Peptide 1-37 (Aβ37).

PubMed

Mehta, Pankaj D; Blain, Jean-Francois; Freeman, Emily A; Patrick, Bruce A; Barshatzky, Marc; Hrdlicka, Lori A; Mehta, Sangita P; Frackowiak, Janusz; Mazur-Kolecka, Bozena; Wegiel, Jerzy; Patzke, Holger; Miller, David L

2017-01-01

Secreted soluble amyloid-β 1-37 (Aβ37) peptide is one of the prominent Aβ forms next to Aβ40, and is found in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and blood. Recent studies have shown the importance of quantitation of CSF Aβ37 levels in combination with Aβ38, Aβ40, and Aβ42 to support the diagnosis of patients with probable Alzheimer's disease (AD), and the value of antibody to Aβ37 to facilitate drug discovery studies. However, the availability of reliable and specific monoclonal antibody to Aβ37 is very limited. Our aims were: 1) to generate and partially characterize rabbit monoclonal antibody (RabmAb) to Aβ37, and 2) to determine whether the antibody detects changes in Aβ37 levels produced by a γ-secretase modulator (GSM). Our generated RabmAb to Aβ37 was found to be specific to Aβ37, since it did not react with Aβ36, Aβ38, Aβ39, Aβ40, and Aβ42 in an ELISA or immunoblotting. The epitope of the antibody was contained in the seven C-terminal residues of Aβ37. The antibody was sensitive enough to measure CSF and plasma Aβ37 levels in ELISA. Immunohistological studies showed the presence of Aβ37-positive deposits in the brain of AD, and Down syndrome persons diagnosed with AD. Our studies also showed that the antibody detected Aβ37 increases in CSF and brains of rodents following treatment with a GSM. Thus, our antibody can be widely applied to AD research, and in a panel based approach it may have potential to support the diagnosis of probable AD, and in testing the effect of GSMs to target AD.

Identification and Characterization of Clostridium difficile Sequence Type 37 Genotype by Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization-Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry.

PubMed

Li, Ruxin; Xiao, Di; Yang, Jing; Sun, Suju; Kaplan, Samuel; Li, Zhirong; Niu, Yanan; Qiang, Cuixin; Zhai, Yu; Wang, Xiaoming; Zhao, Xingzhen; Zhao, Baoxin; Welker, Martin; Pincus, David H; Jin, Dazhi; Kamboj, Mini; Zheng, Guanghui; Zhang, Guojun; Zhang, Jianzhong; Tang, Yi-Wei; Zhao, Jianhong

2018-05-01

Clostridium difficile multilocus sequence type 37 (ST37), which mainly corresponds to ribotype 017, has been a dominant genotype circulating in China. In this study, we report the use of matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) to analyze and characterize 204 C. difficile clinical isolates, including 49 ST37 and 155 non-ST37 isolates collected in China and other countries. The distributions of two major protein peaks ( m/z 3,242 and 3,286) were significantly different between ST37 and non-ST37 prototype strains and clinical isolates. This difference was reproducible when analysis was performed on different colonies in different runs. This finding was repeated and confirmed by both bioMérieux Vitek MS and Bruker Microflex LT systems on isolates recovered from a variety of geographic regions worldwide. The combination of the two peaks was present in 47 of 49 ST37 isolates, resulting in a sensitivity of 95.9%. In contrast, the peak combination was absent in 153 of 155 non-ST37 isolates, resulting in a specificity of 98.7%. Our results suggest that MALDI-TOF MS is a rapid and reliable tool to identify C. difficile genotype ST37. Work is in progress to characterize the two molecules having peaks at m/z 3,242 and 3,286, which appear to be specific to C. difficile genotype ST37. Copyright © 2018 American Society for Microbiology.

A new rapid immunohistochemical staining technique using the EnVision antibody complex.

PubMed

Kämmerer, U; Kapp, M; Gassel, A M; Richter, T; Tank, C; Dietl, J; Ruck, P

2001-05-01

Rapid immunohistochemical investigation, in addition to staining with hematoxylin and eosin, would be useful during intraoperative frozen section diagnosis in some cases. This study was undertaken to investigate whether the recently described EnVision system, a highly sensitive two-step immunohistochemical technique, could be modified for rapid immunostaining of frozen sections. Forty-five primary antibodies were tested on frozen sections from various different tissues. After fixation in acetone for 1 min and air-drying, the sections were incubated for 3 min each with the primary antibody, the EnVision complex (a large number of secondary antibodies and horseradish peroxidase coupled to a dextran backbone), and the chromogen (3,3'diaminobenzidine or 3-amino-9-ethylcarbazole). All reactions were carried out at 37C. Specific staining was seen with 38 antibodies (including HMB-45 and antibodies against keratin, vimentin, leukocyte common antigen, smooth muscle actin, synaptophysin, CD34, CD3, CD20, and prostate-specific antigen). A modification of the EnVision method allows the detection of a broad spectrum of antigens in frozen sections in less than 13 min. This method could be a useful new tool in frozen section diagnosis and research. (J Histochem Cytochem 49:623-630, 2001)

7 CFR 319.37-6 - Specific treatment and other requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

..., Roots, Bulbs, Seeds, and Other Plant Products 1,2 § 319.37-6 Specific treatment and other requirements. (a) The following seeds and bulbs may be imported into the United States from designated countries... this chapter. Seeds and bulbs treated prior to importation outside the United States must be treated in...

7 CFR 319.37-6 - Specific treatment and other requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

..., Roots, Bulbs, Seeds, and Other Plant Products 1,2 § 319.37-6 Specific treatment and other requirements. (a) The following seeds and bulbs may be imported into the United States from designated countries... this chapter. Seeds and bulbs treated prior to importation outside the United States must be treated in...

Efficiency of pH-Sensitive Fusogenic Polymer-Modified Liposomes as a Vaccine Carrier

PubMed Central

Watarai, Shinobu; Iwase, Tana; Tajima, Tomoko; Yuba, Eiji; Kono, Kenji

2013-01-01

The usefulness of pH-sensitive fusogenic polymer-(succinylated poly(glycidol)-(SucPG-) modified liposomes as a vaccine carrier in the induction of immune responses was evaluated. Mice were intraperitoneally immunized with ovalbumin- (OVA-) containing SucPG-modified liposomes. After immunization, significant OVA-specific antibodies were detected in the serum. When sera were analyzed for isotype distribution, OVA-specific IgG1 antibody responses were noted in mice immunized with OVA-containing polymer-unmodified liposomes, whereas immunization with OVA-containing SucPG-modified liposomes resulted in the induction of OVA-specific IgG1, IgG2a, and IgG3 Ab responses. In spleen lymphocytes from mice immunized with OVA-containing SucPG-modified liposomes, both IFN-γ-(Th1-type-) and IL-4-(Th2 type-) specific mRNA were detected. Moreover, substantial production of IFN-γ and IL-4 was demonstrated in spleen cells from OVA-containing SucPG-modified liposomes in vitro. These results suggest that the pH-sensitive fusogenic polymer-(SucPG-) modified liposomes would serve effectively as an antigen delivery vehicle for inducing Th1 and Th2 immune responses. PMID:23431260

Efficiency of pH-sensitive fusogenic polymer-modified liposomes as a vaccine carrier.

PubMed

Watarai, Shinobu; Iwase, Tana; Tajima, Tomoko; Yuba, Eiji; Kono, Kenji

2013-01-01

The usefulness of pH-sensitive fusogenic polymer-(succinylated poly(glycidol)-(SucPG-) modified liposomes as a vaccine carrier in the induction of immune responses was evaluated. Mice were intraperitoneally immunized with ovalbumin- (OVA-) containing SucPG-modified liposomes. After immunization, significant OVA-specific antibodies were detected in the serum. When sera were analyzed for isotype distribution, OVA-specific IgG1 antibody responses were noted in mice immunized with OVA-containing polymer-unmodified liposomes, whereas immunization with OVA-containing SucPG-modified liposomes resulted in the induction of OVA-specific IgG1, IgG2a, and IgG3 Ab responses. In spleen lymphocytes from mice immunized with OVA-containing SucPG-modified liposomes, both IFN-γ-(Th1-type-) and IL-4-(Th2 type-) specific mRNA were detected. Moreover, substantial production of IFN-γ and IL-4 was demonstrated in spleen cells from OVA-containing SucPG-modified liposomes in vitro. These results suggest that the pH-sensitive fusogenic polymer-(SucPG-) modified liposomes would serve effectively as an antigen delivery vehicle for inducing Th1 and Th2 immune responses.

SapTrap, a Toolkit for High-Throughput CRISPR/Cas9 Gene Modification in Caenorhabditis elegans.

PubMed

Schwartz, Matthew L; Jorgensen, Erik M

2016-04-01

In principle, clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/Cas9 allows genetic tags to be inserted at any locus. However, throughput is limited by the laborious construction of repair templates and guide RNA constructs and by the identification of modified strains. We have developed a reagent toolkit and plasmid assembly pipeline, called "SapTrap," that streamlines the production of targeting vectors for tag insertion, as well as the selection of modified Caenorhabditis elegans strains. SapTrap is a high-efficiency modular plasmid assembly pipeline that produces single plasmid targeting vectors, each of which encodes both a guide RNA transcript and a repair template for a particular tagging event. The plasmid is generated in a single tube by cutting modular components with the restriction enzyme SapI, which are then "trapped" in a fixed order by ligation to generate the targeting vector. A library of donor plasmids supplies a variety of protein tags, a selectable marker, and regulatory sequences that allow cell-specific tagging at either the N or the C termini. All site-specific sequences, such as guide RNA targeting sequences and homology arms, are supplied as annealed synthetic oligonucleotides, eliminating the need for PCR or molecular cloning during plasmid assembly. Each tag includes an embedded Cbr-unc-119 selectable marker that is positioned to allow concurrent expression of both the tag and the marker. We demonstrate that SapTrap targeting vectors direct insertion of 3- to 4-kb tags at six different loci in 10-37% of injected animals. Thus SapTrap vectors introduce the possibility for high-throughput generation of CRISPR/Cas9 genome modifications. Copyright © 2016 by the Genetics Society of America.

Rational modification of Corynebacterium glutamicum dihydrodipicolinate reductase to switch the nucleotide-cofactor specificity for increasing l-lysine production.

PubMed

Xu, Jian-Zhong; Yang, Han-Kun; Liu, Li-Ming; Wang, Ying-Yu; Zhang, Wei-Guo

2018-03-25

l-lysine is an important amino acid in animals and humans and NADPH is a vital cofactor for maximizing the efficiency of l-lysine fermentation. Dihydrodipicolinate reductase (DHDPR), an NAD(P)H-dependent enzyme, shows a variance in nucleotide-cofactor affinity in bacteria. In this study, we rationally engineered Corynebacterium glutamicum DHDPR (CgDHDPR) to switch its nucleotide-cofactor specificity resulting in an increase in final titer (from 82.6 to 117.3 g L -1 ), carbon yield (from 0.35 to 0.44 g [g glucose] -1 ) and productivity (from 2.07 to 2.93 g L -1  hr -1 ) of l-lysine in JL-6 ΔdapB::Ec-dapB C115G,G116C in fed-batch fermentation. To do this, we comparatively analyzed the characteristics of CgDHDPR and Escherichia coli DHDPR (EcDHDPR), indicating that hetero-expression of NADH-dependent EcDHDPR increased l-lysine production. Subsequently, we rationally modified the conserved structure of cofactor-binding motif, and results indicated that introducing the mutation K11A or R13A in CgDHDPR and introducing the mutation R16A or R39A in EcDHDPR modifies the nucleotide-cofactor affinity of DHDPR. Lastly, the effects of these mutated DHDPRs on l-lysine production were investigated. The highest increase (26.2%) in l-lysine production was observed for JL-6 ΔdapB::Ec-dapB C115G,G116C , followed by JL-6 Cg-dapB C37G,G38C (21.4%) and JL-6 ΔdapB::Ec-dapB C46G,G47C (15.2%). This is the first report of a rational modification of DHDPR that enhances the l-lysine production and yield through the modulation of nucleotide-cofactor specificity. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Solution structure of CEH-37 homeodomain of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans

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

Moon, Sunjin; Lee, Yong Woo; Kim, Woo Taek

Highlights: •We have determined solution structures of CEH-37 homedomain. •CEH-37 HD has a compact α-helical structure with HTH DNA binding motif. •Solution structure of CEH-37 HD shares its molecular topology with that of the homeodomain proteins. •Residues in the N-terminal region and HTH motif are important in binding to Caenorhabditis elegans telomeric DNA. •CEH-37 could play an important role in telomere function via DNA binding. -- Abstract: The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans protein CEH-37 belongs to the paired OTD/OTX family of homeobox-containing homeodomain proteins. CEH-37 shares sequence similarity with homeodomain proteins, although it specifically binds to double-stranded C. elegans telomeric DNA,more » which is unusual to homeodomain proteins. Here, we report the solution structure of CEH-37 homeodomain and molecular interaction with double-stranded C. elegans telomeric DNA using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. NMR structure shows that CEH-37 homeodomain is composed of a flexible N-terminal region and three α-helices with a helix-turn-helix (HTH) DNA binding motif. Data from size-exclusion chromatography and fluorescence spectroscopy reveal that CEH-37 homeodomain interacts strongly with double-stranded C. elegans telomeric DNA. NMR titration experiments identified residues responsible for specific binding to nematode double-stranded telomeric DNA. These results suggest that C. elegans homeodomain protein, CEH-37 could play an important role in telomere function via DNA binding.« less

Diet quality of urban older adults age 60 to 99 years: the Cardiovascular Health of Seniors and Built Environment Study.

PubMed

Deierlein, Andrea L; Morland, Kimberly B; Scanlin, Kathleen; Wong, Sally; Spark, Arlene

2014-02-01

There are few studies that evaluate dietary intakes and predictors of diet quality in older adults. The objectives of this study were to describe nutrient intakes and examine associations between demographic, economic, behavioral, social environment, and health status factors and diet quality. Cross-sectional data were from black, white, and Hispanic adults, age 60 to 99 years, living independently in New York City and participating in the Cardiovascular Health of Seniors and the Built Environment Study, 2009-2011 (n=1,306). Multivariable log-linear regression estimated associations between selected factors and good diet quality, defined as a Healthy Eating Index score more than 80 (based on the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans [HEI-2005]). Dietary intakes were similar for men and women; intakes of energy, fiber, and the majority of micronutrients were less than recommendations, whereas intakes of fats, added sugar, and sodium were within the upper range or exceeded recommendations. Hispanic ethnicity (relative risk [RR]=1.37; 95% CI 1.07 to 1.75), energy intake <∼ 1,500 kcal/day (RR=1.93; 95% CI, 1.37 to 2.71), adherence to a special diet (RR=1.23; 95% CI: 1.02 to 1.50), purchasing food at supermarkets at least once/week (RR=1.34; 95% CI, 1.04 to 1.74), and being married/living with a partner (RR=1.37; 95% CI, 1.10 to 1.71) were positively associated with HEI-2005 score more than 80. Consuming at least one restaurant meal/day was negatively associated with HEI-2005 score more than 80 (RR=0.69; 95%CI, 0.50-0.94). These findings identify specific groups of older adults, such as blacks or those who live alone, who may benefit from dietary interventions, as well as specific modifiable behaviors among older adults, such as eating restaurant meals or shopping at supermarkets, which may be targeted through interventions. Copyright © 2014 Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

42 CFR 37.93 - Approval of spirometry facilities.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... EXAMINATIONS SPECIFICATIONS FOR MEDICAL EXAMINATIONS OF COAL MINERS Spirometry Examinations § 37.93 Approval of...-approved facilities must meet the requirements specified in this subpart for the following activities... meet required specifications; collecting the respiratory assessment form; transmitting data to NIOSH...

Genetic screening of spinal muscular atrophy using a real-time modified COP-PCR technique with dried blood-spot DNA.

PubMed

Ar Rochmah, Mawaddah; Harahap, Nur Imma Fatimah; Niba, Emma Tabe Eko; Nakanishi, Kenta; Awano, Hiroyuki; Morioka, Ichiro; Iijima, Kazumoto; Saito, Toshio; Saito, Kayoko; Lai, Poh San; Takeshima, Yasuhiro; Takeuchi, Atsuko; Bouike, Yoshihiro; Okamoto, Maya; Nishio, Hisahide; Shinohara, Masakazu

2017-10-01

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a common neuromuscular disorder caused by mutations in SMN1. More than 95% of SMA patients carry homozygous SMN1 deletion. SMA is the leading genetic cause of infant death, and has been considered an incurable disease. However, a recent clinical trial with an antisense oligonucleotide drug has shown encouraging clinical efficacy. Thus, early and accurate detection of SMN1 deletion may improve prognosis of many infantile SMA patients. A total of 88 DNA samples (37 SMA patients, 12 carriers and 39 controls) from dried blood spots (DBS) on filter paper were analyzed. All participants had previously been screened for SMN genes by PCR restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) using DNA extracted from freshly collected blood. DNA was extracted from DBS that had been stored at room temperature (20-25°C) for 1week to 5years. To ensure sufficient quality and quantity of DNA samples, target sequences were pre-amplified by conventional PCR. Real-time modified competitive oligonucleotide priming-PCR (mCOP-PCR) with the pre-amplified PCR products was performed for the gene-specific amplification of SMN1 and SMN2 exon 7. Compared with PCR-RFLP using DNA from freshly collected blood, results from real-time mCOP-PCR using DBS-DNA for detection of SMN1 exon 7 deletion showed a sensitivity of 1.00 (CI [0.87, 1.00])] and specificity of 1.00 (CI [0.90, 1.00]), respectively. We combined DNA extraction from DBS on filter paper, pre-amplification of target DNA, and real-time mCOP-PCR to specifically detect SMN1 and SMN2 genes, thereby establishing a rapid, accurate, and high-throughput system for detecting SMN1-deletion with practical applications for newborn screening. Copyright © 2017 The Japanese Society of Child Neurology. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

PiggyBac-mediated Cancer Immunotherapy Using EBV-specific Cytotoxic T-cells Expressing HER2-specific Chimeric Antigen Receptor

PubMed Central

Nakazawa, Yozo; Huye, Leslie E; Salsman, Vita S; Leen, Ann M; Ahmed, Nabil; Rollins, Lisa; Dotti, Gianpietro; Gottschalk, Stephen M; Wilson, Matthew H; Rooney, Cliona M

2011-01-01

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) can be modified to function as heterologous tumor directed effector cells that survive longer in vivo than tumor directed T cells without virus specificity, due to chronic stimulation by viral antigens expressed during persistent infection in seropositive individuals. We evaluated the nonviral piggyBac (PB) transposon system as a platform for modifying EBV-CTLs to express a functional human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-specific chimeric antigen receptor (HER2-CAR) thereby directing virus-specific, gene modified CTLs towards HER2-positive cancer cells. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were nucleofected with transposons encoding a HER2-CAR and a truncated CD19 molecule for selection followed by specific activation and expansion of EBV-CTLs. HER2-CAR was expressed in ~40% of T cells after CD19 selection with retention of immunophenotype, polyclonality, and function. HER2-CAR-modified EBV-CTLs (HER2-CTLs) killed HER2-positive brain tumor cell lines in vitro, exhibited transient and reversible increases in HER2-CAR expression following antigen-specific stimulation, and stably expressed HER2-CAR beyond 120 days. Adoptive transfer of PB-modified HER2-CTLs resulted in tumor regression in a murine xenograft model. Our results demonstrate that PB can be used to redirect virus-specific CTLs to tumor targets, which should prolong tumor-specific T cell survival in vivo producing more efficacious immunotherapy. PMID:21772253

PiggyBac-mediated cancer immunotherapy using EBV-specific cytotoxic T-cells expressing HER2-specific chimeric antigen receptor.

PubMed

Nakazawa, Yozo; Huye, Leslie E; Salsman, Vita S; Leen, Ann M; Ahmed, Nabil; Rollins, Lisa; Dotti, Gianpietro; Gottschalk, Stephen M; Wilson, Matthew H; Rooney, Cliona M

2011-12-01

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) can be modified to function as heterologous tumor directed effector cells that survive longer in vivo than tumor directed T cells without virus specificity, due to chronic stimulation by viral antigens expressed during persistent infection in seropositive individuals. We evaluated the nonviral piggyBac (PB) transposon system as a platform for modifying EBV-CTLs to express a functional human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-specific chimeric antigen receptor (HER2-CAR) thereby directing virus-specific, gene modified CTLs towards HER2-positive cancer cells. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were nucleofected with transposons encoding a HER2-CAR and a truncated CD19 molecule for selection followed by specific activation and expansion of EBV-CTLs. HER2-CAR was expressed in ~40% of T cells after CD19 selection with retention of immunophenotype, polyclonality, and function. HER2-CAR-modified EBV-CTLs (HER2-CTLs) killed HER2-positive brain tumor cell lines in vitro, exhibited transient and reversible increases in HER2-CAR expression following antigen-specific stimulation, and stably expressed HER2-CAR beyond 120 days. Adoptive transfer of PB-modified HER2-CTLs resulted in tumor regression in a murine xenograft model. Our results demonstrate that PB can be used to redirect virus-specific CTLs to tumor targets, which should prolong tumor-specific T cell survival in vivo producing more efficacious immunotherapy.

Preferences of AAA/AAG codon recognition by modified nucleosides, τm5s2U34 and t6A37 present in tRNALys.

PubMed

Sonawane, Kailas D; Kamble, Asmita S; Fandilolu, Prayagraj M

2017-12-27

Deficiency of 5-taurinomethyl-2-thiouridine, τm 5 s 2 U at the 34th 'wobble' position in tRNA Lys causes MERRF (Myoclonic Epilepsy with Ragged Red Fibers), a neuromuscular disease. This modified nucleoside of mt tRNA Lys , recognizes AAA/AAG codons during protein biosynthesis process. Its preference to identify cognate codons has not been studied at the atomic level. Hence, multiple MD simulations of various molecular models of anticodon stem loop (ASL) of mt tRNA Lys in presence and absence of τm 5 s 2 U 34 and N 6 -threonylcarbamoyl adenosine (t 6 A 37 ) along with AAA and AAG codons have been accomplished. Additional four MD simulations of multiple ASL mt tRNA Lys models in the context of ribosomal A-site residues have also been performed to investigate the role of A-site in recognition of AAA/AAG codons. MD simulation results show that, ASL models in presence of τm 5 s 2 U 34 and t 6 A 37 with codons AAA/AAG are more stable than the ASL lacking these modified bases. MD trajectories suggest that τm 5 s 2 U recognizes the codons initially by 'wobble' hydrogen bonding interactions, and then tRNA Lys might leave the explicit codon by a novel 'single' hydrogen bonding interaction in order to run the protein biosynthesis process smoothly. We propose this model as the 'Foot-Step Model' for codon recognition, in which the single hydrogen bond plays a crucial role. MD simulation results suggest that, tRNA Lys with τm 5 s 2 U and t 6 A recognizes AAA codon more preferably than AAG. Thus, these results reveal the consequences of τm 5 s 2 U and t 6 A in recognition of AAA/AAG codons in mitochondrial disease, MERRF.

Modified Framingham Risk Factor Score for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus.

PubMed

Urowitz, Murray B; Ibañez, Dominique; Su, Jiandong; Gladman, Dafna D

2016-05-01

The traditional Framingham Risk Factor Score (FRS) underestimates the risk for coronary artery disease (CAD) in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). We aimed to determine whether an adjustment to the FRS would more accurately reflect the higher prevalence of CAD among patients with SLE. Patients with SLE without a previous history of CAD or diabetes followed regularly at the University of Toronto Lupus Clinic were included. A modified FRS (mFRS) was calculated by multiplying the items by 1.5, 2, 3, or 4. In the first part of the study, using one-third of all eligible patients, we evaluated the sensitivity and specificity of the FRS and the different multipliers for the mFRS. In the second part of the study, using the remaining 2/3 of the eligible patients, we compared the predictive ability of the FRS to the mFRS. In the third part of the study, we assessed the prediction for CAD in a time-dependent analysis of the FRS and mFRS. There were 905 women (89.3%) with a total of 95 CAD events included. In part 1, we determined that a multiplier of 2 provided the best combination of sensitivity and specificity. In part 2, 2.4% of the patients were classified as moderate/high risk based on the classic FRS and 17.3% using the 2FRS (the FRS with a multiplier of 2). In part 3, a time-dependent covariate analysis for the prediction of the first CAD event revealed an HR of 3.22 (p = 0.07) for the classic FRS and 4.37 (p < 0.0001) for the 2FRS. An mFRS in which each item is multiplied by 2 more accurately predicts CAD in patients with SLE.

Modified Acyl-ACP desaturase

DOEpatents

Cahoon, Edgar B.; Shanklin, John; Lindqvist, Ylva; Schneider, Gunter

1999-03-30

Disclosed is a method for modifying the chain length and double bond positional specificities of a soluble plant fatty acid desaturase. More specifically, the method involves modifying amino acid contact residues in the substrate binding channel of the soluble fatty acid desaturase which contact the fatty acid. Specifically disclosed is the modification of an acyl-ACP desaturase. Amino acid contact residues which lie within the substrate binding channel are identified, and subsequently replaced with different residues to effect the modification of activity.

Modified acyl-ACP desaturase

DOEpatents

Cahoon, Edgar B.; Shanklin, John; Lindgvist, Ylva; Schneider, Gunter

1998-01-06

Disclosed is a methods for modifying the chain length and double bond positional specificities of a soluble plant fatty acid desaturase. More specifically, the method involves modifying amino acid contact residues in the substrate binding channel of the soluble fatty acid desaturase which contact the fatty acid. Specifically disclosed is the modification of an acyl-ACP desaturase. Amino acid contact residues which lie within the substrate binding channel are identified, and subsequently replaced with different residues to effect the modification of activity.

98 Specific IGE and IGG Binding to Allergoids of Phleum pratense

PubMed Central

Cases, Barbara; Fernandez-Caldas, Enrique; Tudela, Jose Ignacio; Fernandez, Eva Abel; Sanchez-Garcia, Silvia; Ibañez, M. Dolores; Escudero, Carmelo; Casanovas, Miguel

2012-01-01

Background Allergoids were first used in the decades of the 60s and 70s of the last century as an effective treatment of allergic respiratory diseases. Allergoids can be modified with formaldehyde or glutaraldehyde. Modified allergens, or allergoids, decrease the risk of adverse reactions while administering higher allergen doses. The objective of this study was to analyse specific IgE and IgG binding to glutaraldehyde modified and non-modified allergen extracts of Phleum pratense. Methods The sera of 69 patients sensitized to P. pratense were tested. All these patients had signs and symptoms of rhinoconjunctivitis with, or without, asthma in May and June of 2011. All these patients had positive skin prick tests to a standardized extract of P. pratense, and other grass species. Most patients were also sensitized to olive pollen. Specific IgE and IgG binding were analysed by direct ELISA against P. pratense native (non-modified) and allergoid extracts. Relative potencies were evaluated through ELISA inhibition assays, and the protein composition of non-modified and allergoid samples was determined by Mass Spectrometry (MS/MS). Results Mean Specific IgE levels against the native extract was 16.68 ± 11.65 Units (U) and against the allergoid: 7.26 ± 8.24 U (P < 0.0001; Mann-Whitney). On the other hand, mean specific IgG binding against the non-modified extract was 90.34 ± 75.57 U versus 76.19 ± 70.31 U against the allergoid (P = 0.16; Mann-Whitney). Linear regression coefficients obtained between immunoglobulin reactivity against both extracts were: r2 = 0.51 for specific IgE and r2 = 0.83 for specific IgG. An important decrease in the allergenic activity, measured by inhibition ELISA, was clearly observed. The MS/MS assay revealed the presence of the mayor allergen, and some isoforms, in non-modified and allergoid extracts. Conclusions Results obtained demonstrate that the glutaraldehyde polymerization process induces an important decrease in specific IgE binding to allergoids of P. pratense while there are no significant differences in specific IgG binding. The allergenic composition of the P. pratense allergoid was equivalent to the non-modified pollen extract.

Halloysite nanotubes loaded with peppermint essential oil as filler for functional biopolymer film.

PubMed

Biddeci, G; Cavallaro, G; Di Blasi, F; Lazzara, G; Massaro, M; Milioto, S; Parisi, F; Riela, S; Spinelli, G

2016-11-05

The purpose of this paper is to show how a functional bionanocomposite film with both antioxidant and antimicrobial activities was successfully prepared by the filling of a pectin matrix with modified Halloysite nanotubes (HNT) containing the essential peppermint oil (PO). Firstly, HNT surfaces were functionalized with cucurbit[6]uril (CB[6]) molecules with the aim to enhance the affinity of the nanofiller towards PO, which was estimated by means of HPLC experiments. The HNT/CB[6] hybrid was characterized by several methods (thermogravimetry, FT-IR spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy) highlighting the influence of the supramolecular interactions on the composition, thermal behavior and morphology of the filler. Then, a pectin+HNT/CB[6] biofilm was prepared by the use of the casting method under specific experimental conditions in order to favor the entrapment of the volatile PO into the nanocomposite structure. Water contact angle measurements, thermogravimetry and tensile tests evidenced the effects of the modified filler on the thermo-mechanical and wettability properties of pectin, which were correlated to the microscopic structure of the biocomposite film. In addition, PO release in food simulant solvent was investigated at different temperatures (4 and 25°C), whereas the antioxidant activity of the nanocomposite film was estimated using the DPPH method. Finally, we studied the in vitro antibacterial activity of the biofilm against Escherichia coli (Gram-negative) and Staphylococcus aureus (Gram-positive), which were isolated by beef and cow milk, respectively. These experiments were carried out at specific temperatures (4, 37 and 65°C) that can be useful for a multi-step food conservation. This paper puts forwards an easy strategy to prepare a functional sustainable edible film with thermo-sensitive antioxidant/antimicrobial activity. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Psychometric properties of the modified RESIDE physical activity questionnaire among low-income overweight women.

PubMed

Jones, Sydney A; Evenson, Kelly R; Johnston, Larry F; Trost, Stewart G; Samuel-Hodge, Carmen; Jewell, David A; Kraschnewski, Jennifer L; Keyserling, Thomas C

2015-01-01

This study explored the criterion-related validity and test-retest reliability of the modified RESIDential Environment physical activity questionnaire and whether the instrument's validity varied by body mass index, education, race/ethnicity, or employment status. Validation study using baseline data collected for randomized trial of a weight loss intervention. Participants recruited from health departments wore an ActiGraph accelerometer and self-reported non-occupational walking, moderate and vigorous physical activity on the modified RESIDential Environment questionnaire. We assessed validity (n=152) using Spearman correlation coefficients, and reliability (n=57) using intraclass correlation coefficients. When compared to steps, moderate physical activity, and bouts of moderate/vigorous physical activity measured by accelerometer, these questionnaire measures showed fair evidence for validity: recreational walking (Spearman correlation coefficients 0.23-0.36), total walking (Spearman correlation coefficients 0.24-0.37), and total moderate physical activity (Spearman correlation coefficients 0.18-0.36). Correlations for self-reported walking and moderate physical activity were higher among unemployed participants and women with lower body mass indices. Generally no other variability in the validity of the instrument was found. Evidence for reliability of RESIDential Environment measures of recreational walking, total walking, and total moderate physical activity was substantial (intraclass correlation coefficients 0.56-0.68). Evidence for questionnaire validity and reliability varied by activity domain and was strongest for walking measures. The questionnaire may capture physical activity less accurately among women with higher body mass indices and employed participants. Capturing occupational activity, specifically walking at work, may improve questionnaire validity. Copyright © 2014 Sports Medicine Australia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

37 CFR 1.125 - Substitute specification.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 37 Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights 1 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Substitute specification. 1.125 Section 1.125 Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights UNITED STATES PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE GENERAL RULES OF PRACTICE IN PATENT CASES National Processing Provisions Amendments...

37 CFR 1.125 - Substitute specification.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 37 Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights 1 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Substitute specification. 1.125 Section 1.125 Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights UNITED STATES PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE GENERAL RULES OF PRACTICE IN PATENT CASES National Processing Provisions Amendments...

[Adsorption of phenol chemicals by surfactant-modified zeolites].

PubMed

Xie, Jie; Wang, Zhe; Wu, De-Yi; Li, Chun-Jie

2012-12-01

Two kinds of zeolites were prepared from fly ash and modified by surfactant subsequently. Surfactant-modified zeolites were studied for adsorption of phenol chemicals (phenol, p-chlorphenol, bisphenol A). It showed that the adsorption affinity of zeolite to phenol chemicals was significantly improved after surfactant modification. The adsorption isotherms of phenol chemicals were well fitted by the Langmuir isotherm. For the two surfactant-surfactant modified zeolites, the maximum adsorption amounts of phenol, p-chlorphenol, and bisphenol A calculated from the Langmuir equation were 37.7, 52.36, 90.9 mg x g(-1) and 10.7, 22.83, 56.8 mg x g(-1), respectively. When pH values of solutions were higher than the pK(a) values of phenol chemicals, the removal efficiencies were getting higher with the increase of pH values. The octanol/water partition coefficient (K(ow)) was also found to be an important factor affecting adsorption of phenol chemicals by the modified zeolites. Higher K(ow) value, which means the greater hydrophobicity of the chemicals, resulted in a higher removal.

37 CFR 102.6 - Time limits and expedited processing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... requests. Refusal to reasonably modify the scope of a request or arrange an alternate time frame may affect... imminent threat to the life or physical safety of an individual; (ii) The loss of substantial due process... the Government's integrity that affect public confidence; or (iv) An urgency to inform the public...

Results of a Pilates exercise program in patients with chronic non-specific low back pain: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Valenza, M C; Rodríguez-Torres, J; Cabrera-Martos, I; Díaz-Pelegrina, A; Aguilar-Ferrándiz, M E; Castellote-Caballero, Y

2017-06-01

To investigate the effects of a Pilates exercise program on disability, pain, lumbar mobility, flexibility and balance in patients with chronic non-specific low back pain. Randomized controlled trial. University laboratory. A total of 54 patients with chronic non-specific low back pain. Patients were randomly allocated to an experimental group ( n=27) included in a Pilates exercise program or to a control group ( n=27) receiving information in a form of a leaflet. Disability (Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire and Oswestry Disability Index), current, average and pain at it least and at its worst (Visual Analogue Scales), lumbar mobility (modified Shober test), flexibility (finger-to-floor test) and balance (single limb stance test) were measured at baseline and after the intervention. A between-group analysis showed significant differences in the intervention group compared to the control group for both disability scores, the Rolland-Morris questionnaire (mean change±standard deviation of 5.31±3.37 and 2.40±6.78 respectively and between-groups mean difference of 3.2 ± 4.12, p=0.003) and the Oswestry Disability Index ( p<0.001), current pain ( p=0.002) and pain at it least ( p=0.033), flexibility (0.032) and balance (0.043). An 8-week Pilates exercise program is effective in improving disability, pain, flexibility and balance in patients with chronic non-specific low back pain.

Modified acyl-ACP desaturase

DOEpatents

Cahoon, E.B.; Shanklin, J.; Lindgvist, Y.; Schneider, G.

1998-01-06

Disclosed is a method for modifying the chain length and double bond positional specificities of a soluble plant fatty acid desaturase. More specifically, the method involves modifying amino acid contact residues in the substrate binding channel of the soluble fatty acid desaturase which contact the fatty acid. Specifically disclosed is the modification of an acyl-ACP desaturase. Amino acid contact residues which lie within the substrate binding channel are identified, and subsequently replaced with different residues to effect the modification of activity. 1 fig.

Modified Acyl-ACP desaturase

DOEpatents

Cahoon, E.B.; Shanklin, J.; Lindqvist, Y.; Schneider, G.

1999-03-30

Disclosed is a method for modifying the chain length and double bond positional specificities of a soluble plant fatty acid desaturase. More specifically, the method involves modifying amino acid contact residues in the substrate binding channel of the soluble fatty acid desaturase which contact the fatty acid. Specifically disclosed is the modification of an acyl-ACP desaturase. Amino acid contact residues which lie within the substrate binding channel are identified, and subsequently replaced with different residues to effect the modification of activity. 2 figs.

Reinforced carbon fiber laminates with oriented carbon nanotube epoxy nanocomposites: Magnetic field assisted alignment and cryogenic temperature mechanical properties.

PubMed

He, Yuxin; Yang, Song; Liu, Hu; Shao, Qian; Chen, Qiuyu; Lu, Chang; Jiang, Yuanli; Liu, Chuntai; Guo, Zhanhu

2018-05-01

The epoxy nanocomposites with ordered multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were used to influence the micro-cracks resistance of carbon fiber reinforced epoxy (CF/EP) laminate at 77 K, Oxidized MWCNTs functionalized with Fe 3 O 4 (Fe 3 O 4 /O-MWCNTs) with good magnetic properties were prepared by co-precipitation method and used to modify epoxy (EP) for cryogenic applications. Fe 3 O 4 /O-MWCNTs reinforced carbon fiber epoxy composites were also prepared through vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM). The ordered Fe 3 O 4 /O-MWCNTs were observed to have effectively improved the mechanical properties of epoxy (EP) matrix at 77 K and reduce the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of EP matrix. The ordered Fe 3 O 4 /O-MWCNTs also obviously improved the micro-cracks resistance of CF/EP composites at 77 K. Compared to neat EP, the CTE of ordered Fe 3 O 4 /O-MWCNTs modified CF/EP composites was decreased 37.6%. Compared to CF/EP composites, the micro-cracks density of ordered Fe 3 O 4 /O-MWCNTs modified CF/EP composites at 77 K was decreased 37.2%. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Multimodality PET/MRI agents targeted to activated macrophages.

PubMed

Tu, Chuqiao; Ng, Thomas S C; Jacobs, Russell E; Louie, Angelique Y

2014-02-01

The recent emergence of multimodality imaging, particularly the combination of PET and MRI, has led to excitement over the prospect of improving detection of disease. Iron oxide nanoparticles have become a popular platform for the fabrication of PET/MRI probes owing to their advantages of high MRI detection sensitivity, biocompatibility, and biodegradability. In this article, we report the synthesis of dextran-coated iron oxide nanoparticles (DIO) labeled with the positron emitter (64)Cu to generate a PET/MRI probe, and modified with maleic anhydride to increase the negative surface charge. The modified nanoparticulate PET/MRI probe (MDIO-(64)Cu-DOTA) bears repetitive anionic charges on the surface that facilitate recognition by scavenger receptor type A (SR-A), a ligand receptor found on activated macrophages but not on normal vessel walls. MDIO-(64)Cu-DOTA has an average iron oxide core size of 7-8 nm, an average hydrodynamic diameter of 62.7 nm, an r1 relaxivity of 16.8 mM(-1) s(-1), and an r 2 relaxivity of 83.9 mM(-1) s(-1) (37 °C, 1.4 T). Cell studies confirmed that the probe was nontoxic and was specifically taken up by macrophages via SR-A. In comparison with the nonmodified analog, the accumulation of MDIO in macrophages was substantially improved. These characteristics demonstrate the promise of MDIO-(64)Cu-DOTA for identification of vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques via the targeting of macrophages.

Modified duval procedure for small-duct chronic pancreatitis without head dominance.

PubMed

Oida, Takatsugu; Aramaki, Osamu; Kano, Hisao; Mimatsu, Kenji; Kawasaki, Atsushi; Kuboi, Youichi; Fukino, Nobutada; Kida, Kazutoshi; Amano, Sadao

2011-01-01

In the case of small-duct chronic pancreatitis, surgery for pain relief is broadly divided into resection and drainage procedures. These procedures should be selected according to the location of dominant lesion, diameter of the pancreatic duct and extent of the disease. The appropriate procedure for the treatment of small-duct chronic pancreatitis, especially small-duct chronic pancreatitis without head dominance, remains controversial. We developed the modified Duval procedure for the treatment of small-duct chronic pancreatitis without head dominance and determined the efficacy of this procedure. We retrospectively studied 14 patients who underwent surgical drainage with or without pancreatic resection for chronic pancreatitis with small pancreatic duct (<7mm) without head dominance. These patients were divided into 2 groups; the modified Puestow procedure group and the modified Duval procedure group. No complications occurred in the modified Duval group. In the modified Puestow procedure group, complete and partial pain relief were observed in 62.5%, and 37.5% of patients respectively. In contrast, complete pain relief was observed in all the patients in the modified Duval procedure group. Our modified Duval procedure is useful and should be considered the appropriate surgical technique for the treatment of small-duct chronic pancreatitis without head dominance.

Empirical validation of guidelines for the management of pharyngitis in children and adults.

PubMed

McIsaac, Warren J; Kellner, James D; Aufricht, Peggy; Vanjaka, Anita; Low, Donald E

2004-04-07

Recent guidelines for management of pharyngitis vary in their recommendations concerning empirical antibiotic treatment and the need for laboratory confirmation of group A streptococcus (GAS). To assess the impact of guideline recommendations and alternative approaches on identification and treatment of GAS pharyngitis in children and adults. Throat cultures and rapid antigen tests were performed on 787 children and adults aged 3 to 69 years with acute sore throat attending a family medicine clinic in Calgary, Alberta, from September 1999 to August 2002. Recommendations from 2 guidelines (those of the Infectious Diseases Society of America and of the American College of Physicians-American Society of Internal Medicine/American Academy of Family Physicians/US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) were compared with rapid testing alone, a clinical prediction rule (ie, the modified Centor score), and a criterion standard of treatment for positive throat culture results only. Sensitivity and specificity of each strategy for identifying GAS pharyngitis, total antibiotics recommended, and unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions. In children, sensitivity for streptococcal infection ranged from 85.8% (133/155; 95% confidence interval [CI], 79.3%-90.0%) for rapid testing to 100% for culturing all. In adults, sensitivity ranged from 76.7% (56/73; 95% CI, 65.4%-85.8%) for rapid testing without culture confirmation of negative results to 100% for culturing all. In children, specificity ranged from 90.3% (270/299; 95% CI, 86.4%-93.4%) for use of modified Centor score and throat culture to 100% for culturing all. In adults, specificity ranged from 43.8% (114/260; 95% CI, 37.7%-50.1%) for empirical treatment based on a modified Centor score of 3 or 4 to 100% for culturing all. Total antibiotic prescriptions were lowest with rapid testing (24.7% [194/787]; 95% CI, 21.7%-27.8%) and highest with empirical treatment of high-risk adults (45.7% [360/787]; 95% CI, 42.2%-49.3%), due to a high rate of unnecessary prescriptions in adults (43.8% [146/333]; 95% CI, 38.4%-49.4%). Guideline recommendations for the selective use of throat cultures but antibiotic treatment based only on positive rapid test or throat culture results can reduce unnecessary use of antibiotics for treatment of pharyngitis. However, empirical treatment of adults having a Centor score of 3 or 4 is associated with a high rate of unnecessary antibiotic use. In children, strategies incorporating throat culture or throat culture confirmation of negative rapid antigen test results are highly sensitive and specific. Throat culture of all adults or those selected on the basis of a clinical prediction rule had the highest sensitivity and specificity.

The NASA Integrated Vehicle Health Management Technology Experiment for X-37

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schwabacher, Mark; Samuels, Jeff; Brownston, Lee; Clancy, Daniel (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

The NASA Integrated Vehicle Health Management (IVHM) Technology Experiment for X-37 was intended to run IVHM software on-board the X-37 spacecraft. The X-37 is intended to be an unpiloted vehicle that would orbit the Earth for up to 21 days before landing on a runway. The objectives of the experiment were to demonstrate the benefits of in-flight IVHM to the operation of a Reusable Launch Vehicle, to advance the Technology Readiness Level of this IVHM technology within a flight environment, and to demonstrate that the IVHM software could operate on the Vehicle Management Computer. The scope of the experiment was to perform real-time fault detection and isolation for X-37's electrical power system and electro-mechanical actuators. The experiment used Livingstone, a software system that performs diagnosis using a qualitative, model-based reasoning approach that searches system-wide interactions to detect and isolate failures. Two of the challenges we faced were to make this research software more efficient so that it would fit within the limited computational resources that were available to us on the X-37 spacecraft, and to modify it so that it satisfied the X-37's software safety requirements. Although the experiment is currently unfunded, the development effort had value in that it resulted in major improvements in Livingstone's efficiency and safety. This paper reviews some of the details of the modeling and integration efforts, and some of the lessons that were learned.

Sustained release and permeation of timolol from surface-modified solid lipid nanoparticles through bioengineered human cornea.

PubMed

Attama, A A; Reichl, S; Müller-Goymann, C C

2009-08-01

The aim of the study was to formulate and evaluate surface-modified solid lipid nanoparticles sustained delivery system of timolol hydrogen maleate, a prototype ocular drug using a human cornea construct. Surface-modified solid lipid nanoparticles containing timolol with and without phospholipid were formulated by melt emulsification with high-pressure homogenization and characterized by particle size, wide-angle X-ray diffraction, encapsulation efficiency, and in vitro drug release. Drug transport studies through cornea bioengineered from human donor cornea cells were carried out using a modified Franz diffusion cell and drug concentration analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography. Results show that surface-modified solid lipid nanoparticles possessed very small particles (42.9 +/- 0.3 nm, 47.2 +/- 0.3 nm, 42.7 +/- 0.7 nm, and 37.7 +/- 0.3 nm, respectively for SM-SLN 1, SM-SLN 2, SM-SLN 3, and SM-SLN 4) with low polydispersity indices, increased encapsulation efficiency (> 44%), and sustained in vitro release compared with unmodified lipid nanoparticles whose particles were greater than 160 nm. Permeation of timolol hydrogen maleate from the surface-modified lipid nanoparticles across the cornea construct was sustained compared with timolol hydrogen maleate solution in distilled water. Surface-modified solid lipid nanoparticles could provide an efficient way of improving ocular bioavailability of timolol hydrogen maleate.

21 CFR 184.1287 - Enzyme-modified fats.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Enzyme-modified fats. 184.1287 Section 184.1287... Listing of Specific Substances Affirmed as GRAS § 184.1287 Enzyme-modified fats. (a) Enzyme-modified refined beef fat, enzyme-modified butterfat, and enzyme-modified steam-rendered chicken fat are prepared...

21 CFR 184.1287 - Enzyme-modified fats.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Enzyme-modified fats. 184.1287 Section 184.1287... Listing of Specific Substances Affirmed as GRAS § 184.1287 Enzyme-modified fats. (a) Enzyme-modified refined beef fat, enzyme-modified butterfat, and enzyme-modified steam-rendered chicken fat are prepared...

21 CFR 184.1287 - Enzyme-modified fats.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2010-04-01 2009-04-01 true Enzyme-modified fats. 184.1287 Section 184.1287... Listing of Specific Substances Affirmed as GRAS § 184.1287 Enzyme-modified fats. (a) Enzyme-modified refined beef fat, enzyme-modified butterfat, and enzyme-modified steam-rendered chicken fat are prepared...

21 CFR 184.1287 - Enzyme-modified fats.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Enzyme-modified fats. 184.1287 Section 184.1287... Listing of Specific Substances Affirmed as GRAS § 184.1287 Enzyme-modified fats. (a) Enzyme-modified refined beef fat, enzyme-modified butterfat, and enzyme-modified steam-rendered chicken fat are prepared...

On display during a technical exposition at Dryden are NASA's B-52 launch aircraft, Boeing's X-37, B

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2000-01-01

Aerospace industry representatives view actual and mock-up versions of 'X-Planes' intended to enhance access to space during a technical exposition on June 22, 2000 at Dryden Flight Research Center, Edwards, California. From left to right: NASA's B-52 launch aircraft, in service with NASA since 1959; a neutral-buoyancy model of the Boeing's X-37; the Boeing X-40A behind the MicroCraft X-43 mock-up; Orbital Science's X-34 and the modified Lockheed L-1011 airliner that was to launch the X-34. These X-vehicles are part of NASA's Access to Space plan intended to bring new technologies to bear in an effort to dramatically lower the cost of putting payloads in space, and near-space environments. The June 22, 2000 NASA Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) Technology Exposition included presentations on the history, present, and future of NASA's RLV program. Special Sessions for industry representatives highlighted the X-37 project and its related technologies. The X-37 project is managed by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, Alabama.

37 CFR 1.173 - Reissue specification, drawings, and amendments.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 37 Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights 1 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Reissue specification, drawings, and amendments. 1.173 Section 1.173 Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights UNITED STATES PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE GENERAL RULES OF PRACTICE IN PATENT CASES National Processing...

Assessing Conservation Values: Biodiversity and Endemicity in Tropical Land Use Systems

PubMed Central

Waltert, Matthias; Bobo, Kadiri Serge; Kaupa, Stefanie; Montoya, Marcela Leija; Nsanyi, Moses Sainge; Fermon, Heleen

2011-01-01

Despite an increasing amount of data on the effects of tropical land use on continental forest fauna and flora, it is debatable whether the choice of the indicator variables allows for a proper evaluation of the role of modified habitats in mitigating the global biodiversity crisis. While many single-taxon studies have highlighted that species with narrow geographic ranges especially suffer from habitat modification, there is no multi-taxa study available which consistently focuses on geographic range composition of the studied indicator groups. We compiled geographic range data for 180 bird, 119 butterfly, 204 tree and 219 understorey plant species sampled along a gradient of habitat modification ranging from near-primary forest through young secondary forest and agroforestry systems to annual crops in the southwestern lowlands of Cameroon. We found very similar patterns of declining species richness with increasing habitat modification between taxon-specific groups of similar geographic range categories. At the 8 km2 spatial level, estimated richness of endemic species declined in all groups by 21% (birds) to 91% (trees) from forests to annual crops, while estimated richness of widespread species increased by +101% (trees) to +275% (understorey plants), or remained stable (- 2%, butterflies). Even traditional agroforestry systems lost estimated endemic species richness by - 18% (birds) to - 90% (understorey plants). Endemic species richness of one taxon explained between 37% and 57% of others (positive correlations) and taxon-specific richness in widespread species explained up to 76% of variation in richness of endemic species (negative correlations). The key implication of this study is that the range size aspect is fundamental in assessments of conservation value via species inventory data from modified habitats. The study also suggests that even ecologically friendly agricultural matrices may be of much lower value for tropical conservation than indicated by mere biodiversity value. PMID:21298054

Bacterial cocaine esterase: a protein-based therapy for cocaine overdose and addiction

PubMed Central

Narasimhan, Diwahar; Woods, James H; Sunahara, Roger K

2012-01-01

Cocaine is highly addictive and there are no pharmacotherapeutic drugs available to treat acute cocaine toxicity or chronic abuse. Antagonizing an inhibitor such as cocaine using a small molecule has proven difficult. The alternative approach is to modify cocaine’s pharmacokinetic properties by sequestering or hydrolyzing it in serum and limiting access to its sites of action. We took advantage of a bacterial esterase (CocE) that has evolved to hydrolyze cocaine and have developed it as a therapeutic that rapidly and specifically clears cocaine from the subject. Native enzyme was unstable at 37°C, thus limiting CocE’s potential. Innovative computational methods based on the protein’s structure helped elucidate its mechanism of destabilization. Novel protein engineering methodologies were applied to substantially improve its stability in vitro and in vivo. These improvements rendered CocE as a powerful and efficacious therapeutic to treat cocaine intoxication and lead the way towards developing a therapy for addiction. PMID:22300094

Modifying middle school physical education: piloting strategies to increase physical activity.

PubMed

Jago, Russell; McMurray, Robert G; Bassin, Stanley; Pyle, Laura; Bruecker, Steve; Jakicic, John M; Moe, Esther; Murray, Tinker; Volpe, Stella L

2009-05-01

Two pilot studies were conducted to examine whether 6th grade students can achieve moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) from 1) activity-based physical education (AB-PE) with 585 participants and 2) a curricular-based (CB-PE) program with 1,544 participants and randomly sampled heart rates during lessons. AB-PE participants spent between 54-66% with a heart rate >140 bpm. CB-PE participants spent between 49-58% with a heart rate >140 bpm. Girls' mean heart rate was 3.7 bpm lower than the boys. PE can be readily modified so that students spend more than 50% of time in MVPA.

Modifying Middle School Physical Education: Piloting Strategies to Increase Physical Activity

PubMed Central

Jago, Russell; McMurray, Robert G.; Bassin, Stanley; Pyle, Laura; Bruecker, Steve; Jakicic, John M.; Moe, Esther; Murray, Tinker; Volpe, Stella L.

2009-01-01

Two pilot studies were conducted to examine whether 6th grade students can achieve moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) from 1) activity-based physical education (AB-PE) with 585 participants and 2) a curricular-based (CB-PE) program with 1,544 participants and randomly sampled heart rates during lessons. AB-PE participants spent between 54-66% with a heart rate >140 bpm. CB-PE participants spent between 49-58% with a heart rate >140 bpm. Girls' mean heart rate was 3.7 bpm lower than the boys. PE can be readily modified so that students spend more than 50% of time in MVPA. PMID:19556623

Human tRNA(Lys3)(UUU) is pre-structured by natural modifications for cognate and wobble codon binding through keto-enol tautomerism.

PubMed

Vendeix, Franck A P; Murphy, Frank V; Cantara, William A; Leszczyńska, Grażyna; Gustilo, Estella M; Sproat, Brian; Malkiewicz, Andrzej; Agris, Paul F

2012-03-02

Human tRNA(Lys3)(UUU) (htRNA(Lys3)(UUU)) decodes the lysine codons AAA and AAG during translation and also plays a crucial role as the primer for HIV-1 (human immunodeficiency virus type 1) reverse transcription. The posttranscriptional modifications 5-methoxycarbonylmethyl-2-thiouridine (mcm(5)s(2)U(34)), 2-methylthio-N(6)-threonylcarbamoyladenosine (ms(2)t(6)A(37)), and pseudouridine (Ψ(39)) in the tRNA's anticodon domain are critical for ribosomal binding and HIV-1 reverse transcription. To understand the importance of modified nucleoside contributions, we determined the structure and function of this tRNA's anticodon stem and loop (ASL) domain with these modifications at positions 34, 37, and 39, respectively (hASL(Lys3)(UUU)-mcm(5)s(2)U(34);ms(2)t(6)A(37);Ψ(39)). Ribosome binding assays in vitro revealed that the hASL(Lys3)(UUU)-mcm(5)s(2)U(34);ms(2)t(6)A(37);Ψ(39) bound AAA and AAG codons, whereas binding of the unmodified ASL(Lys3)(UUU) was barely detectable. The UV hyperchromicity, the circular dichroism, and the structural analyses indicated that Ψ(39) enhanced the thermodynamic stability of the ASL through base stacking while ms(2)t(6)A(37) restrained the anticodon to adopt an open loop conformation that is required for ribosomal binding. The NMR-restrained molecular-dynamics-derived solution structure revealed that the modifications provided an open, ordered loop for codon binding. The crystal structures of the hASL(Lys3)(UUU)-mcm(5)s(2)U(34);ms(2)t(6)A(37);Ψ(39) bound to the 30S ribosomal subunit with each codon in the A site showed that the modified nucleotides mcm(5)s(2)U(34) and ms(2)t(6)A(37) participate in the stability of the anticodon-codon interaction. Importantly, the mcm(5)s(2)U(34)·G(3) wobble base pair is in the Watson-Crick geometry, requiring unusual hydrogen bonding to G in which mcm(5)s(2)U(34) must shift from the keto to the enol form. The results unambiguously demonstrate that modifications pre-structure the anticodon as a key prerequisite for efficient and accurate recognition of cognate and wobble codons. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Modification of deoiled cumin dietary fiber with laccase and cellulase under high hydrostatic pressure.

PubMed

Ma, Mengmei; Mu, Taihua

2016-01-20

In this study, we evaluated the effects of high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) and enzyme (laccase and cellulase) treatment on the structural, physicochemical, and functional properties and antioxidant activity of deoiled cumin dietary fiber (DF). HHP-enzyme treatment increased the contents of soluble dietary fiber (SDF) (30.37 g/100g), monosaccharides (except for glucose), uronic acids, and total polyphenol. HHP-enzyme treatment altered the honey-comb structure of DF and generated new polysaccharides. DF modified by HHP-enzyme treatment exhibited improved water retention capacity (10.02 g/g), water swelling capacity (11.19 mL/g), fat and glucose absorption capacities (10.44 g/g, 22.18-63.54 mmol/g), α-amylase activity inhibition ration (37.95%), and bile acid retardation index (48.85-52.58%). The antioxidant activity of DF was mainly correlated to total polyphenol content (R=0.8742). Therefore, DF modified by HHP-enzyme treatment from deoiled cumin could be used as a fiber-rich ingredient in functional foods. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

A comparisoin of the R25 modification of Rappaport s enrichment medium with strontium chloride B for salmonella isolation from sewage polluted natural water.

PubMed Central

Harvey, R. W.; Price, T. H.

1982-01-01

The relation of salmonella isolation efficiency and the size of inoculum introduced from a buffered peptone water culture of sewage polluted water into strontium chloride B medium was investigated. Two separate studies were made, one using enrichment at 37 degrees C, the other at 43 degrees C. From these trials, two inocula suitable for efficient salmonella isolation were determined. Using this information, strontium chloride B medium was compared with modified Rappaport's broth (R25). The inoculum used with R25 was 0.005 ml, determined in an earlier study. Two incubation temperatures were employed with strontium chloride enrichment (37 and 43 degrees C). Rappaport's medium was incubated at 37 degrees C only. Elevated temperature enrichment at 43 degrees C improved the performance of strontium chloride B, but Rappaport's broth still gave significantly better results. This supports earlier studies on simplification of salmonella isolation and standardization of routine technique on a single enrichment medium: Rappaport broth (R25) incubated at 37 degrees C. PMID:7047641

37 CFR 41.37 - Appeal brief.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... limitation is described in the specification as filed. If there is a drawing or amino acid or nucleotide material sequence, and at least one limitation is illustrated in a drawing or amino acid or nucleotide...

37 CFR 41.37 - Appeal brief.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... limitation is described in the specification as filed. If there is a drawing or amino acid or nucleotide material sequence, and at least one limitation is illustrated in a drawing or amino acid or nucleotide...

Pathogenic Nontuberculous Mycobacteria Resist and Inactivate Cathelicidin: Implication of a Novel Role for Polar Mycobacterial Lipids

PubMed Central

Honda, Jennifer R.; Hess, Tamara; Malcolm, Kenneth C.; Ovrutsky, Alida R.; Bai, Xiyuan; Irani, Vida R.; Dobos, Karen M.; Chan, Edward D.; Flores, Sonia C.

2015-01-01

Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are a large group of environmental organisms with worldwide distribution, but only a relatively few are known to be pathogenic. Chronic, debilitating lung disease is the most common manifestation of NTM infection, which is often refractory to treatment. The incidence and prevalence of NTM lung disease are increasing in the United States and in many parts of the world. Hence, a more complete understanding of NTM pathogenesis will provide the foundation to develop innovative approaches to treat this recalcitrant disease. Herein, we demonstrate that several species of NTM show broad resistance to the antimicrobial peptide, cathelicidin (LL-37). Resistance to LL-37 was not significantly different between M. avium that contain serovar-specific glycopeptidolipid (GPL, M. avium ssGPL) and M. avium that do not (M. avium ΔssGPL). Similarly, M. abscessus containing non-specific GPL (M. abscessus nsGPL(+)) or lacking nsGPL (M. abscessus nsGPL(-)) remained equally resistant to LL-37. These findings would support the notion that GPL are not the components responsible for NTM resistance to LL-37. Unexpectedly, the growth of M. abscessus nsGPL(-) increased with LL-37 or scrambled LL-37 peptide in a dose-dependent fashion. We also discovered that LL-37 exposed to NTM had reduced antimicrobial activity, and initial work indicates that this is likely due to inactivation of LL-37 by lipid component(s) of the NTM cell envelope. We conclude that pathogenic NTM resist and inactivate LL-37. The mechanism by which NTM circumvent the antimicrobial activity of LL-37 remains to be determined. PMID:25993058

Basic vaginal pH, bacterial vaginosis and aerobic vaginitis: prevalence in early pregnancy and risk of spontaneous preterm delivery, a prospective study in a low socioeconomic and multiethnic South American population.

PubMed

Krauss-Silva, Leticia; Almada-Horta, Antonio; Alves, Mariane B; Camacho, Karla G; Moreira, Maria Elizabeth L; Braga, Alcione

2014-03-19

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) increases the risk of spontaneous preterm deliveries (PD) in developed countries. Its prevalence varies with ethnicity, socioeconomic conditions and gestational age. Aerobic vaginitis (AV) has also been implicated with spontaneous PD. The present study aimed to estimate the prevalence of asymptomatic BV, the accuracy of vaginal pH level to predict BV and to estimate the risk of spontaneous PD <34 and <37 weeks' gestation of BV and AV. Women attending prenatal public services in Rio de Janeiro were screened to select asymptomatic pregnant women, < 20 weeks' gestation, with no indication for elective PD and without risk factors of spontaneous PD. Vaginal smears of women with vaginal pH > = 4.5 were collected to determine the Nugent score; a sample of those smears was also classified according to a modified Donders' score. Primary outcomes were spontaneous PD < 34 and <37 weeks' gestation and abortion. Prevalence of asymptomatic BV was estimated in 28.1% (n = 1699); 42.4% of the smears were collected before 14 weeks' gestation. After an 8-week follow up, nearly 40% of the initially BV positive women became BV negative. The prevalence of BV among white and black women was 28.1% (95% CI: 24.6%-32.0%) and 32.5% (95% CI: 28.2%-37.2%), respectively. The sensitivity of vaginal pH= > 4.5 and = > 5.0 to predict BV status was 100% and 82%, correspondingly; the 5.0 cutoff value doubled the specificity, from 41% to 84%. The incidence of < 37 weeks' spontaneous PDs among BV pregnant women with a pH= > 4.5 was 3.8%. The RR of spontaneous PD < 34 and <37 weeks among BV women with pH > =4.5, as compared with those with intermediate state, were 1.24 and 1.86, respectively (Fisher's exact test, p value = 1; 0.52, respectively, both ns). No spontaneous case of PD or abortion was associated with severe or moderate AV. A high prevalence of asymptomatic BV was observed without statistically significant difference between black and white women. The RRs of spontaneous PD < 34 and <37 weeks among women with BV, as compared with those with intermediate state were not statistically significant but were consistent with those found in the literature.

Basic vaginal pH, bacterial vaginosis and aerobic vaginitis: prevalence in early pregnancy and risk of spontaneous preterm delivery, a prospective study in a low socioeconomic and multiethnic South American population

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Bacterial vaginosis (BV) increases the risk of spontaneous preterm deliveries (PD) in developed countries. Its prevalence varies with ethnicity, socioeconomic conditions and gestational age. Aerobic vaginitis (AV) has also been implicated with spontaneous PD. The present study aimed to estimate the prevalence of asymptomatic BV, the accuracy of vaginal pH level to predict BV and to estimate the risk of spontaneous PD <34 and <37 weeks’ gestation of BV and AV. Methods Women attending prenatal public services in Rio de Janeiro were screened to select asymptomatic pregnant women, < 20 weeks’ gestation, with no indication for elective PD and without risk factors of spontaneous PD. Vaginal smears of women with vaginal pH > = 4.5 were collected to determine the Nugent score; a sample of those smears was also classified according to a modified Donders’ score. Primary outcomes were spontaneous PD < 34 and <37 weeks’ gestation and abortion. Results Prevalence of asymptomatic BV was estimated in 28.1% (n = 1699); 42.4% of the smears were collected before 14 weeks’ gestation. After an 8-week follow up, nearly 40% of the initially BV positive women became BV negative. The prevalence of BV among white and black women was 28.1% (95% CI: 24.6%-32.0%) and 32.5% (95% CI: 28.2%-37.2%), respectively. The sensitivity of vaginal pH= > 4.5 and = > 5.0 to predict BV status was 100% and 82%, correspondingly; the 5.0 cutoff value doubled the specificity, from 41% to 84%. The incidence of < 37 weeks’ spontaneous PDs among BV pregnant women with a pH= > 4.5 was 3.8%. The RR of spontaneous PD < 34 and <37 weeks among BV women with pH > =4.5, as compared with those with intermediate state, were 1.24 and 1.86, respectively (Fisher’s exact test, p value = 1; 0.52, respectively, both ns). No spontaneous case of PD or abortion was associated with severe or moderate AV. Conclusions A high prevalence of asymptomatic BV was observed without statistically significant difference between black and white women. The RRs of spontaneous PD < 34 and <37 weeks among women with BV, as compared with those with intermediate state were not statistically significant but were consistent with those found in the literature. PMID:24641730

The Combined Association of Modifiable Risk Factors with Breast Cancer Risk in the Women's Health Initiative.

PubMed

Arthur, Rhonda; Wassertheil-Smoller, Sylvia; Manson, JoAnn E; Luo, Juhua; Snetselaar, Linda; Hastert, Theresa; Caan, Bette; Qi, Lihong; Rohan, Thomas

2018-06-01

Although several modifiable risk factors have been independently associated with risk of breast cancer, few studies have investigated their joint association with breast cancer risk. Using a healthy lifestyle index (HLI) score, we assessed the association of a combination of selected modifiable risk factors (diet, alcohol, physical activity, BMI, and smoking) with risk of invasive breast cancer in the Women's Health Initiative (WHI). This study comprised 131,833 postmenopausal women, of whom 8,168 had breast cancer, who were enrolled in the WHI Observational Study or the WHI clinical trials. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to estimate the HRs and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the association of the score with the risk of developing breast cancer overall and according to specific breast cancer clinicopathologic characteristics. There was a 4% reduction in the risk of breast cancer per unit increase in the HLI score. Compared with those with an HLI score in the lowest quintile level, those in the highest quintile level had 30%, 37%, and 30% lower risk for overall, ER + /PR + , and HER2 + breast cancer, respectively (HR = 0.70; 95% CI, 0.64-0.76; 0.63, 0.57-0.69; and 0.70; 0.55-0.90, respectively). We also observed inverse associations between the score and risk of breast cancer irrespective of nodal status, tumor grade, and stage of the disease. Most individual lifestyle factors were independently associated with the risk of breast cancer. Our findings support the view that promoting healthy lifestyle practices may be beneficial with respect to lowering risk of breast cancer among postmenopausal women. Cancer Prev Res; 11(6); 317-26. ©2018 AACR See related editorial by Friedenreich and McTiernan, p. 313 . ©2018 American Association for Cancer Research.

Evaluation of modified Alvarado scoring system and RIPASA scoring system as diagnostic tools of acute appendicitis.

PubMed

Shuaib, Abdullah; Shuaib, Ali; Fakhra, Zainab; Marafi, Bader; Alsharaf, Khalid; Behbehani, Abdullah

2017-01-01

Acute appendicitis is the most common surgical condition presented in emergency departments worldwide. Clinical scoring systems, such as the Alvarado and modified Alvarado scoring systems, were developed with the goal of reducing the negative appendectomy rate to 5%-10%. The Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Appendicitis (RIPASA) scoring system was established in 2008 specifically for Asian populations. The aim of this study was to compare the modified Alvarado with the RIPASA scoring system in Kuwait population. This study included 180 patients who underwent appendectomies and were documented as having "acute appendicitis" or "abdominal pain" in the operating theatre logbook (unit B) from November 2014 to March 2016. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), diagnostic accuracy, predicted negative appendectomy and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve of the modified Alvarado and RIPASA scoring systems were derived using SPSS statistical software. A total of 136 patients were included in this study according to our criteria. The cut-off threshold point of the modified Alvarado score was set at 7.0, which yielded a sensitivity of 82.8% and a specificity of 56%. The PPV was 89.3% and the NPV was 42.4%. The cut-off threshold point of the RIPASA score was set at 7.5, which yielded a 94.5% sensitivity and an 88% specificity. The PPV was 97.2% and the NPV was 78.5%. The predicted negative appendectomy rates were 10.7% and 2.2% for the modified Alvarado and RIPASA scoring systems, respectively. The negative appendectomy rate decreased significantly, from 18.4% to 10.7% for the modified Alvarado, and to 2.2% for the RIPASA scoring system, which was a significant difference (P<0.001) for both scoring systems. Based on the results of this study, the RIPASA score is a simple scoring system with better sensitivity and specificity than the modified Alvarado scoring system in Asian populations. It consists of 14 clinical parameters that can be obtained from a good patient history, clinical examination and laboratory investigations. The RIPASA scoring system is more accurate and specific than the modified Alvarado scoring system for Kuwait population.

Superconducting properties of molybdenum ruthenium alloy Mo0.63Ru0.37

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wei, Wensen; Ge, Min; Wang, Shasha; Zhang, Lei; Han, Yuyan; Du, Haifeng; Tian, Mingliang; Zhang, Yuheng

2018-03-01

Resistance, magnetization and specific heat measurements were performed on Mo0.63Ru0.37 alloy. All of them confirm that Mo0.63Ru0.37 becomes superconducting at about 7.0 K with bulk nature. Its upper critical field behavior fits to Werthamer-Helfand-Hohenberg (WHH) model quite well, with an upper critical field of μ0Hc2(0) = 8.64 T, less than its Pauli limit. Its electronic specific heat is reproduced by Bardeen-Cooper-Schriffer (BCS)-based α-model with a gap ratio Δ0 = 1.88kBTc, which is a little larger than the standard BCS value of 1.76. We concluded that Mo0.63Ru0.37 is a fully gapped isotropic s-wave superconductor, with its features are mostly consistent with the conventional theory.

Effects of Task-Specific Augmented Feedback on Deficit Modification During Performance of the Tuck-Jump Exercise

PubMed Central

Stroube, Benjamin W.; Myer, Gregory D.; Brent, Jensen L.; Ford, Kevin R.; Heidt, Robert S.; Hewett, Timothy E.

2014-01-01

Context Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are prevalent in female athletes. Specific factors have possible links to increasing a female athlete’s chances of suffering an ACL injury. However, it is unclear if augmented feedback may be able to decrease possible risk factors. Objective To compare the effects of task-Specific feedback on a repeated tuck-jump maneuver. Design Double-blind randomized controlled trial. Setting Sports-medicine biodynamics center. Patients 37 female subjects (14.7 ± 1.5 y, 160.9 ± 6.8 cm, 54.5 ± 7.2 kg). Intervention All athletes received standard off-season training consisting of strength training, plyometrics, and conditioning. They were also videotaped during each session while running on a treadmill at a standardized speed (8 miles/h) and while performing a repeated tuck-jump maneuver for 10 s. The augmented feedback group (AF) received feedback on deficiencies present in a 10-s tuck jump, while the control group (CTRL) received feedback on 10-s treadmill running. Main Outcome Measures Outcome measurements of tuck-jump deficits were scored by a blinded rater to determine the effects of group (CTRL vs AF) and time (pre- vs posttesting) on changes in measured deficits. Results A significant interaction of time by group was noted with the task-Specific feedback training (P = .03). The AF group reduced deficits measured during the tuck-jump assessment by 23.6%, while the CTRL training reduced deficits by 10.6%. Conclusions The results of the current study indicate that task-Specific feedback is effective for reducing biomechanical risk factors associated with ACL injury. The data also indicate that Specific components of the tuck-jump assessment are potentially more modifiable than others. PMID:23238301

43 CFR 3510.15 - What will BLM do with my application?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... specified in § 3503.37 of this part; (c) The acreage of the modified lease, including additional lands, is... necessary for the recovery of the mineral deposit on the original Federal lease; and (iii) Had the acreage... conserve natural resources and will provide for economical and efficient recovery as part of a mining unit...

43 CFR 3510.15 - What will BLM do with my application?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... specified in § 3503.37 of this part; (c) The acreage of the modified lease, including additional lands, is... necessary for the recovery of the mineral deposit on the original Federal lease; and (iii) Had the acreage... conserve natural resources and will provide for economical and efficient recovery as part of a mining unit...

Boar Semen Studies

PubMed Central

King, G. J.; Macpherson, J. W.

1967-01-01

A successful method for low temperature preservation of bull semen was modified for use with boar semen and resulted in recovery of twenty to fifty per cent motile cells immediately after thawing. Recovered cells did not survive five hours incubation at 37° C. and no pregnancies resulted following insemination of twenty-four sows and gilts with frozen semen. PMID:4226659

Spontaneous modification of graphite anode by anthraquinone-2-sulfonic acid for microbial fuel cells.

PubMed

Tang, Xinhua; Li, Haoran; Du, Zhuwei; Ng, How Yong

2014-07-01

In this study, anthraquinone-2-sulfonic acid (AQS), an electron transfer mediator, was immobilized onto graphite felt surface via spontaneous reduction of the in situ generated AQS diazonium cations. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) and energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS) characterizations of AQS modified graphite demonstrated that AQS was covalently grafted onto the graphite surface. The modified graphite, with a surface AQS concentration of 5.37 ± 1.15 × 10(-9)mol/cm(2), exhibited good electrochemical activity and high stability. The midpoint potential of the modified graphite was about -0.248 V (vs. normal hydrogen electrode, NHE), indicating that electrons could be easily transferred from NADH in bacteria to the electrode. AQS modified anode in MFCs increased the maximum power density from 967 ± 33 mW/m(2) to 1872 ± 42 mW/m(2). These results demonstrated that covalently modified AQS functioned as an electron transfer mediator to facilitate extracellular electron transfer from bacteria to electrode and significantly enhanced the power production in MFCs. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Adopting MOOCs for Affordable Quality Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mohapatra, Sanjay; Mohanty, Rituparna

2017-01-01

Devgun ["International Journal of Information and Computation Technology," 3(7), 641-646, (2013)] and Sarkar et al. (2016) have discussed models those help in overcoming challenges while adopting technology with higher education. But these models need to be modified in the context of MOOCS. To overcome these challenges, we have developed…

Superparamagnetic poly(methyl methacrylate) nanoparticles surface modified with folic acid presenting cell uptake mediated by endocytosis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Feuser, Paulo Emilio; Jacques, Amanda Virtuoso; Arévalo, Juan Marcelo Carpio; Rocha, Maria Eliane Merlin; dos Santos-Silva, Maria Claudia; Sayer, Claudia; de Araújo, Pedro H. Hermes

2016-04-01

The encapsulation of superparamagnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) in polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) with modified surfaces can improve targeted delivery and induce cell death by hyperthermia. The goals of this study were to synthesize and characterize surface modified superparamagnetic poly(methyl methacrylate) with folic acid (FA) prepared by miniemulsion polymerization (MNPsPMMA-FA) and to evaluate their in vitro cytotoxicity and cellular uptake in non-tumor cells, murine fibroblast (L929) cells and tumor cells that overexpressed folate receptor (FR) β, and chronic myeloid leukemia cells in blast crisis (K562). Lastly, hemolysis assays were performed on human red blood cells. MNPsPMMA-FA presented an average mean diameter of 135 nm and a saturation magnetization (Ms) value of 37 emu/g of iron oxide, as well as superparamagnetic behavior. The MNPsPMMA-FA did not present cytotoxicity in L929 and K562 cells. Cellular uptake assays showed a higher uptake of MNPsPMMA-FA than MNPsPMMA in K562 cells when incubated at 37 °C. On the other hand, MNPsPMMA-FA showed a low uptake when endocytosis mechanisms were blocked at low temperature (4 °C), suggesting that the MNPsPMMA-FA uptake was mediated by endocytosis. High concentrations of MNPsPMMA-FA showed hemocompatibility when incubated for 24 h in human red blood cells. Therefore, our results suggest that these carrier systems can be an excellent alternative in targeted drug delivery via FR.

Modulation of Neurally Mediated Vasodepression and Bradycardia by Electroacupuncture through Opioids in Nucleus Tractus Solitarius.

PubMed

Tjen-A-Looi, Stephanie C; Fu, Liang-Wu; Guo, Zhi-Ling; Longhurst, John C

2018-01-30

Stimulation of vagal afferent endings with intravenous phenylbiguanide (PBG) causes both bradycardia and vasodepression, simulating neurally mediated syncope. Activation of µ-opioid receptors in the nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS) increases blood pressure. Electroacupuncture (EA) stimulation of somatosensory nerves underneath acupoints P5-6, ST36-37, LI6-7 or G37-39 selectively but differentially modulates sympathoexcitatory responses. We therefore hypothesized that EA-stimulation at P5-6 or ST36-37, but not LI6-7 or G37-39 acupoints, inhibits the bradycardia and vasodepression through a µ-opioid receptor mechanism in the NTS. We observed that stimulation at acupoints P5-6 and ST36-37 overlying the deep somatosensory nerves and LI6-7 and G37-39 overlying cutaneous nerves differentially evoked NTS neural activity in anesthetized and ventilated animals. Thirty-min of EA-stimulation at P5-6 or ST36-37 reduced the depressor and bradycardia responses to PBG while EA at LI6-7 or G37-39 did not. Congruent with the hemodynamic responses, EA at P5-6 and ST36-37, but not at LI6-7 and G37-39, reduced vagally evoked activity of cardiovascular NTS cells. Finally, opioid receptor blockade in the NTS with naloxone or a specific μ-receptor antagonist reversed P5-6 EA-inhibition of the depressor, bradycardia and vagally evoked NTS activity. These data suggest that point specific EA stimulation inhibits PBG-induced vasodepression and bradycardia responses through a μ-opioid mechanism in the NTS.

Redetection of the Ionospheric H3+ Signature of Saturn's "Ring Rain"

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

O'Donoghue, James; Moore, Luke; Connerney, John E. P.; Melin, Henrik; Stallard, Tom S.; Miller, Steve; Baines, Kevin H.

2017-12-01

In April 2011 Saturn's midlatitude ionospheric H3+ emissions were detected, exhibiting anomalous (nonsolar) H3+ latitudinal variations consistent with the transport of water from specific locations in Saturn's rings, known as "ring rain". These products, transported to the planet along the magnetic field, may help to explain the unusual pattern of peaks and troughs in electron densities discovered in Saturn's ionosphere by spacecraft flybys. In the present study, we analyzed H3+ emissions recorded on 23 April 2013, showing for the first time since the original detection that Saturn's midlatitude H3+ emissions are indeed heavily modified. Although the 2013 emissions are dimmer by almost a factor of 3.7, the latitudinal contrast is greater and uncertainties are lower. Increased H3+ intensities were found near planetocentric latitudes of 43°, 51°, and 63°, previously identified with sources at the inner edge of the B ring, A ring, and the orbit of Enceladus and associated E ring.

Interlaboratory study of the ion source memory effect in 36Cl accelerator mass spectrometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pavetich, Stefan; Akhmadaliev, Shavkat; Arnold, Maurice; Aumaître, Georges; Bourlès, Didier; Buchriegler, Josef; Golser, Robin; Keddadouche, Karim; Martschini, Martin; Merchel, Silke; Rugel, Georg; Steier, Peter

2014-06-01

Understanding and minimization of contaminations in the ion source due to cross-contamination and long-term memory effect is one of the key issues for accurate accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) measurements of volatile elements. The focus of this work is on the investigation of the long-term memory effect for the volatile element chlorine, and the minimization of this effect in the ion source of the Dresden accelerator mass spectrometry facility (DREAMS). For this purpose, one of the two original HVE ion sources at the DREAMS facility was modified, allowing the use of larger sample holders having individual target apertures. Additionally, a more open geometry was used to improve the vacuum level. To evaluate this improvement in comparison to other up-to-date ion sources, an interlaboratory comparison had been initiated. The long-term memory effect of the four Cs sputter ion sources at DREAMS (two sources: original and modified), ASTER (Accélérateur pour les Sciences de la Terre, Environnement, Risques) and VERA (Vienna Environmental Research Accelerator) had been investigated by measuring samples of natural 35Cl/37Cl-ratio and samples highly-enriched in 35Cl (35Cl/37Cl ∼ 999). Besides investigating and comparing the individual levels of long-term memory, recovery time constants could be calculated. The tests show that all four sources suffer from long-term memory, but the modified DREAMS ion source showed the lowest level of contamination. The recovery times of the four ion sources were widely spread between 61 and 1390 s, where the modified DREAMS ion source with values between 156 and 262 s showed the fastest recovery in 80% of the measurements.

Independent segregation of two antigenic specificities (VP3 and VP7) involved in neutralization of rotavirus infectivity.

PubMed Central

Hoshino, Y; Sereno, M M; Midthun, K; Flores, J; Kapikian, A Z; Chanock, R M

1985-01-01

Antiserum prepared against the M37 strain of rotavirus, recovered from an asymptomatic newborn infant in Venezuela, neutralized two prototype human rotaviruses that define two separate serotypes: serotype 1 (Wa) and serotype 4 (ST3). Thus, the M37 strain is a naturally occurring intertypic rotavirus. Analysis of reassortant viruses produced during coinfection in vitro indicated that the observed dual serotype specificity of M37 resulted from sharing a related outer capsid protein, VP3, with the ST3 virus and another related outer capsid protein, VP7, with the Wa virus. Analysis of single (VP3)-gene-substitution reassortants indicated that VP3 was as potent an immunogen as VP7. In addition, direct evidence was obtained that the serotype specificity of neutralizing antibody elicited by VP3 can differ from the serotype specificity of neutralizing antibody elicited by VP7, indicating the need for a dual system of rotavirus classification in which the neutralization specificity of both VP3 and VP7 outer capsid proteins are identified. Images PMID:3001716

New technique for mouse oocyte injection via a modified holding pipette.

PubMed

Lyu, Q F; Deng, L; Xue, S G; Cao, S F; Liu, X Y; Jin, W; Wu, L Q; Kuang, Y P

2010-11-01

To improve mouse oocyte survival from intracytoplasmic sperm injection, the sharp tip of the injection pipette has been modified to have a flat end. Here, for the same goal but for a more convenient manipulation, a sharp injection pipette was kept whereas the holding pipette was modified to have a trumpet-shaped opening, which allows deeper injection into the oocyte as it is held. Mouse oocyte injection with mouse and human spermatozoa was performed at 37°C. For the injection of mouse oocyte with mouse sperm head, a significantly higher survival rate (83%) was achieved by utilizing the modified holding pipette than the conventional one (21%; P<0.001) and the fertilization rates were normal and comparable for both methods (82% versus 81%). A superior survival rate (82%) and acceptable normal fertilization rate (71%) were also achieved by utilizing the modified holding pipette for interspecies ICSI (injecting mouse oocyte with human spermatozoon). Taken together, by utilizing a holding pipette with a trumpet-shaped opening, acceptable rates of mouse oocyte survival and fertilization can be achieved using a sharp injection pipette under conditions usual for human oocyte injection. Copyright © 2010 Reproductive Healthcare Ltd. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Integration of Bioinformatics and Synthetic Promoters Leads to the Discovery of Novel Elicitor-Responsive cis-Regulatory Sequences in Arabidopsis1[C][W][OA

PubMed Central

Koschmann, Jeannette; Machens, Fabian; Becker, Marlies; Niemeyer, Julia; Schulze, Jutta; Bülow, Lorenz; Stahl, Dietmar J.; Hehl, Reinhard

2012-01-01

A combination of bioinformatic tools, high-throughput gene expression profiles, and the use of synthetic promoters is a powerful approach to discover and evaluate novel cis-sequences in response to specific stimuli. With Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) microarray data annotated to the PathoPlant database, 732 different queries with a focus on fungal and oomycete pathogens were performed, leading to 510 up-regulated gene groups. Using the binding site estimation suite of tools, BEST, 407 conserved sequence motifs were identified in promoter regions of these coregulated gene sets. Motif similarities were determined with STAMP, classifying the 407 sequence motifs into 37 families. A comparative analysis of these 37 families with the AthaMap, PLACE, and AGRIS databases revealed similarities to known cis-elements but also led to the discovery of cis-sequences not yet implicated in pathogen response. Using a parsley (Petroselinum crispum) protoplast system and a modified reporter gene vector with an internal transformation control, 25 elicitor-responsive cis-sequences from 10 different motif families were identified. Many of the elicitor-responsive cis-sequences also drive reporter gene expression in an Agrobacterium tumefaciens infection assay in Nicotiana benthamiana. This work significantly increases the number of known elicitor-responsive cis-sequences and demonstrates the successful integration of a diverse set of bioinformatic resources combined with synthetic promoter analysis for data mining and functional screening in plant-pathogen interaction. PMID:22744985

21 CFR 184.1063 - Enzyme-modified lecithin.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Enzyme-modified lecithin. 184.1063 Section 184... Listing of Specific Substances Affirmed as GRAS § 184.1063 Enzyme-modified lecithin. (a) Enzyme-modified... Lysolecithin Content of Enzyme-Modified Lecithin: Method I,” dated 1985, which is incorporated by reference in...

Influence of stress and phase on corrosion of a superelastic nickel-titanium orthodontic wire.

PubMed

Segal, Nadav; Hell, Jess; Berzins, David W

2009-06-01

The purpose of this investigation was to study the effect of stress and phase transformation on the corrosion properties of a superelastic nickel-titanium orthodontic wire. The phase transformation profiles of superelastic nickel-titanium (Sentalloy, GAC International, Bohemia, NY) and beta-titanium (TMA, Ormco, Orange, Calif) archwires were analyzed by using differential scanning calorimetry. The force/deflection behavior of the wires at 37 degrees C was measured in a 3-point bending test per modified American Dental Association specification no. 32. Electrochemical testing consisted of monitoring the open circuit potential (OCP) for 2 hours followed by polarization resistance and cyclic polarization tests on archwire segments engaged in a 5-bracket simulation apparatus with bend deflections of 0.75, 1.5, or 3 mm in artificial saliva at 37 degrees C. Nondeflected segments were also tested. Sentalloy was additionally examined for bending and corrosion at 5 degrees C, where it exists as martensite and is devoid of stress-induced phase transformation. OCP at 2 hours and corrosion current density (i(corr)) were analyzed by using ANOVA and Tukey tests (alpha = .05) (n = 10 per deflection). Significant differences (P < 0.05) in OCP with deflection were found for the TMA and the Sentalloy wires at 5 degrees C, but not for Sentalloy at 37 degrees C. Significant differences (P < 0.05) in i(corr) with deflection were also observed. All 3 wire groups had their lowest mean i(corr) values when not deflected. The i(corr) for superelastic Sentalloy (37 degrees C) peaked at 0.75 mm deflection before the wire's stress-induced phase transformation point and then decreased with further deflection and transformation. The i(corr) values for TMA and Sentalloy at 5 degrees C, both of which do not undergo phase transformation with deformation, continuously increased from 0 to 1.5 mm deflection before decreasing at the 3.0-mm deflection. Stress increased the corrosion rate in nickel-titanium and beta-titanium orthodontic wires. Alterations in stress/strain associated with phase transformation in superelastic nickel-titanium might alter the corrosion rate in ways different from wires not undergoing phase transformation.

Preparation of Fe2O3-Clorprenaline/Tetraphenylborate Nanospheres and Their Application as Ion Selective Electrode for Determination of Clorprenaline in Pork

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shao, Xintian; Zhang, Jing; Li, Donghui; Yue, Jingli; Chen, Zhenhua

2016-04-01

A novel modified ion selective electrode based on Fe2O3-clorprenaline/tetraphenylborate nanospheres (Fe2O3-CLPT NSs) as electroactive materials for the determination of clorprenaline hydrochloride (CLP) is described. The α-Fe2O3 nanoparticles (NPs) were prepared by hydrothermal synthesis, then self-assembled on CLP/tetraphenylborate (TPB) to form Fe2O3-CLPT NSs, which were used as a potentiometric electrode for analyte determination innovatively. The Fe2O3-CLPT NSs modified electrode exhibited a wider concentration range from 1.0 × 10-7 to 1.0 × 10-1 mol/L and a lower detection limit of 3.7 × 10-8 mol/L compared with unmodified electrodes. The selectivity of the modified electrode was evaluated by fixed interference method. The good performance of the modified electrode such as wide pH range (2.4-6.7), fast response time (15 s), and adequate lifetime (14 weeks) indicate the utility of the modified electrode for evaluation of CLP content in various real samples. Finally, the modified electrode was successfully employed to detect CLP in pork samples with satisfactory results. These results demonstrated the Fe2O3-CLPT NSs modified electrode to be a functional and convenient method to the field of potentiometry determination of CLP in real samples.

42 CFR 37.40 - General provisions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... Health PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES MEDICAL CARE AND EXAMINATIONS SPECIFICATIONS FOR MEDICAL EXAMINATIONS OF UNDERGROUND COAL MINERS Chest Roentgenographic Examinations...; or (2) By a radiologic technologist as defined in § 37.2. ...

Binary blend of glyceryl monooleate and glyceryl monostearate for magnetically induced thermo-responsive local drug delivery system.

PubMed

Mengesha, Abebe E; Wydra, Robert J; Hilt, J Zach; Bummer, Paul M

2013-12-01

To develop a novel monoglycerides-based thermal-sensitive drug delivery system, specifically for local intracavitary chemotherapy. Lipid matrices containing mixtures of glyceryl monooleate (GMO) and glyceryl monostearate (GMS) were evaluated for their potential application as magnetically induced thermo-responsive local drug delivery systems using a poorly water-soluble model drug, nifedipine (NF). Oleic acid-modified iron oxide (OA-Fe3O4) nanoparticles were embedded into the GMO-GMS matrix for remote activation of the drug release using an alternating magnetic field (AMF). The crystallization behavior of binary blends of GMO and GMS as characterized by DSC did show temperature dependent phase transition. GMO-GMS (75:25 wt%) blend showed a melting (T m ) and crystallization (T c ) points at 42°C and 37°C, respectively indicating the potential of the matrix to act as an 'on-demand' drug release. The matrix released only 35% of the loaded drug slowly in 10 days at 37°C whereas 96% release was obtained at 42°C. A concentration of 0.5% OA-Fe3O4 heated the matrix to 42.3 and 45.5°C within 5 min and 10 min of AMF exposure, respectively. The in vitro NF release profiles form the monoglycerides matrix containing 0.5% OA-Fe3O4 nanoparticles after AMF activation confirmed the thermo-responsive nature of the matrix that could provide pulsatile drug release 'on-demand'.

Magnetic information affects the stellar orientation of young bird migrants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weindler, Peter; Wiltschko, Roswitha; Wiltschko, Wolfgang

1996-09-01

WHEN young birds leave on their first migration, they are guided by innate information about their direction of migration. It is generally assumed that this direction is represented twice, namely with respect to celestial rotation and with respect to the Earth's magnetic field1,2. The interactions between the two cue systems have been analysed by exposing hand-raised young birds during the premigratory period to cue-conflict situations, in which celestial rotation and the magnetic field provided different information. Celestial rotation altered the course with respect to the magnetic field3-7, whereas conflicting magnetic information did not seem to affect the course with respect to the stars8,9. Celestial information thus seemed to dominate over magnetic information. Here we report that the interaction between the two cue systems is far more complex than this. Celestial rotation alone seems to provide only a tendency to move away from its centre (towards geographical south), which is then modified by information from the magnetic field to establish the distinctive, population-specific migratory direction.

Bartonella quintana Deploys Host and Vector Temperature-Specific Transcriptomes

PubMed Central

Previte, Domenic; Yoon, Kyong S.; Clark, J. Marshall; DeRisi, Joseph L.; Koehler, Jane E.

2013-01-01

The bacterial pathogen Bartonella quintana is passed between humans by body lice. B. quintana has adapted to both the human host and body louse vector niches, producing persistent infection with high titer bacterial loads in both the host (up to 105 colony-forming units [CFU]/ml) and vector (more than 108 CFU/ml). Using a novel custom microarray platform, we analyzed bacterial transcription at temperatures corresponding to the host (37°C) and vector (28°C), to probe for temperature-specific and growth phase-specific transcriptomes. We observed that transcription of 7% (93 genes) of the B. quintana genome is modified in response to change in growth phase, and that 5% (68 genes) of the genome is temperature-responsive. Among these transcriptional changes in response to temperature shift and growth phase was the induction of known B. quintana virulence genes and several previously unannotated genes. Hemin binding proteins, secretion systems, response regulators, and genes for invasion and cell attachment were prominent among the differentially-regulated B. quintana genes. This study represents the first analysis of global transcriptional responses by B. quintana. In addition, the in vivo experiments provide novel insight into the B. quintana transcriptional program within the body louse environment. These data and approaches will facilitate study of the adaptation mechanisms employed by Bartonella during the transition between human host and arthropod vector. PMID:23554923

Corticosteroids and Other Anti-Inflammatory Strategies in Pediatric Heart Surgery: A National Survey of Practice.

PubMed

Fudulu, Daniel P; Schadenberg, Alvin; Gibbison, Ben; Jenkins, Ian; Lightman, Stafford; Angelini, Gianni D; Stoica, Serban

2018-05-01

The role of steroids to mitigate the deleterious effects of pediatric cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) remains a matter of debate; therefore, we aimed to assess preferences in administering corticosteroids (CSs) and the use of other anti-inflammatory strategies in pediatric cardiac surgery. A 19-question survey was distributed to consultants in pediatric cardiac anesthesia from 12 centers across the United Kingdom and Ireland. Of the 37 respondents (37/60, 62%), 24 (65%) use CSs, while 13 (35%) do not use steroids at all. We found variability within 5 (41%) of the 12 centers. Seven consultants (7/24, 29%) administer CSs in every case, while 17 administer CSs in selected cases only (17/24, 71%). There was variability in the dose of steroid administration. Almost all consultants (23/24, 96%) administer a single dose at induction, and one administers a two-dose regimen (1/24, 4%). There was variability in CS indications. Most consultants (24/37, 66%) use modified ultrafiltration at the conclusion of CPB. Fifteen consultants (15/32, 47%) report the use of aprotinin, while only 3 use heparin-coated circuits (3/24, 9%). We found wide variability in practice in the administration of CSs for pediatric cardiac surgery, both within and between units. While most anesthetists administer CSs in at least some cases, there is no consensus on the type of steroid, the dose, and at which patient groups this should be directed. Modified ultrafiltration is still used by most of the centers. Almost half of consultants use aprotinin, while heparin-coated circuits are infrequently used.

[Study on the stability of chicken egg yolk immunoglobulin (IgY) modified with mPEG].

PubMed

Wang, Li-Ying; Ma, Mei-Hu; Huang, Qun; Shi, Xiao-Xia

2012-09-01

The objective of the present paper was to study the effect of monomethoxypolyethlene glycol (mPEG) modification on the stability of chicken IgY and compare the stability of the modification products by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), CD spectrooscopy and fluorescence spectroscopy. NHS-mPEG was used to modify IgY after mPEG was activated with N-hydroxysuccinimide (NHS). The optimal reaction condition for modification was 1:10 molar rate of IgY to mPEG at pH 7, reaction for 1 h, and the product was obtained with modification rate of 20.56% and activity reservation of 87. 62%. In addition, the thermal and pH stability of IgY and mPEG-IgY was compared by spectroscopic methods. The results showed that the alpha-helix, beta-sheet, beta-turn, and random content of IgY changed from 14.5%, 42.1%, 6.2% and 37.2% to 1.6%, 55.25%, 5.8% and 37.5%, while mPEG changed from 12.9%, 42.7%, 6.3% and 38. 1% to 3.1%, 50.5%, 7.2% and 39.2%, respectively, after incubating for 120 min at 70 degrees C. For the treatment with acid-base, similarly, the structure changes of mPEG-IgY were smaller than IgY. Thus, it is indicated that IgY modified by mPEG had greater stable properties.

Sensitivity and specificity of modified 100-g oral glucose tolerance tests for diagnosis of gestational diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Hansarikit, Jarunee; Manotaya, Saknan

2011-05-01

To study the sensitivity and specificity of the modified 100-g oral glucose tolerance test for diagnosis of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Medical records of pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic of King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Thailand, who underwent a 100-g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) during March 2004 to September 2009, were retrospectively reviewed. Three modified criteria were proposed for diagnosis of GDM. The screening efficacy of the modified criteria were assessed, using the National Diabetes Data Group (NDDG) criterion as gold standard. A total of 729 records were reviewed, 511 were included for analysis. Using the NDDG criterion as the gold standard, the modified II criterion has the highest sensitivity of 96.8%, and the highest accuracy of 90.8%. The modified II criterion can detect the same proportion of maternal and neonatal complications, compared to the NDDG criterion. The modified II criterion, using the fasting plasma glucose and 2-hour plasma glucose measurements, showed high sensitivity and accuracy, with moderate specificity for diagnosis of GDM. Its potential use as an alternative to standard 100-g OGTT should be evaluated in the prospective study.

Specificity redirection by CAR with human VEGFR-1 affinity endows T lymphocytes with tumor-killing ability and anti-angiogenic potency.

PubMed

Wang, W; Ma, Y; Li, J; Shi, H-S; Wang, L-Q; Guo, F-C; Zhang, J; Li, D; Mo, B-H; Wen, F; Liu, T; Liu, Y-T; Wang, Y-S; Wei, Y-Q

2013-10-01

Immunotherapy that is based on adoptive transfer of T lymphocytes, which are genetically modified to express chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) that recognize tumor-associated antigens, has been demonstrated to be an efficient cancer therapy. Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 (VEGFR-1), a vital molecule involved in tumor growth and angiogenesis, has not been targeted by CAR-modified T lymphocytes. In this study, we generated CAR-modified T lymphocytes with human VEGFR-1 specificity (V-1 CAR) by electroporation. V-1 CAR-modified T lymphocytes were demonstrated to elicit lytic cytotoxicity to target cells in a VEGFR-1-dependent manner. The adoptive transfer of V-1 CAR T lymphocytes delayed tumor growth and formation and inhibited pulmonary metastasis in xenograft models and such efficacies were enhanced by cotransfer of T lymphocytes that expressed interleukin-15 (IL-15). Moreover, V-1 CAR-modified T lymphocytes lysed primary endothelial cells and impaired tube formation, in vitro. These data demonstrated the antitumor and anti-angiogenesis ability of V-1 CAR-modified T lymphocytes. Our study provides the rationale for the clinical translation of CAR-modified T lymphocytes with VEGFR-1 specificity.

21 CFR 184.1063 - Enzyme-modified lecithin.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2010-04-01 2009-04-01 true Enzyme-modified lecithin. 184.1063 Section 184.1063... Listing of Specific Substances Affirmed as GRAS § 184.1063 Enzyme-modified lecithin. (a) Enzyme-modified... Lysolecithin Content of Enzyme-Modified Lecithin: Method I,” dated 1985, which is incorporated by reference in...

Hybrid Metamaterials for Solar Biofuel Generation

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-10-30

challenging, and their production is environmentally damaging .7 For these reasons, they are unlikely to find commercial application. Artificial proteins...transfer in natural systems has led to an empirical expression known as the Moser-Dutton ruler, further modified by Crofts and Rose37 which describes...photolithography (the deep UV photolithography system at the CNF). Reactive ion etching will be used with a polymerization component Project

77 FR 58050 - Refuge-Specific Hunting and Sport Fishing Regulations

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-09-19

... DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Fish and Wildlife Service 50 CFR Part 32 Refuge-Specific Hunting and Sport Fishing Regulations CFR Correction Sec. 32.37 [Corrected] 0 In Title 50 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Parts 18 to 199, revised as of October 1, 2011, on page 345, in Sec. 32.37, under Black Bayou...

Novel FT-IR Microspectroscopic Census of Simple Starch Granules for Octenyl Succinate Ester Modification

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

Bai, Y.; Shi, Y; Wetzel, D

Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) microspectroscopy was used to investigate reaction homogeneity of octenyl succinic anhydride modification on waxy maize starch and detect uniformity of blends of modified and native starches. For the first time, the level and uniformity of chemical substitution on individual starch granules were analyzed by FT-IR microspectroscopy. More than 100 starch granules of each sample were analyzed one by one by FT-IR microspectroscopy. In comparison to the native starch, modified starch had two additional bands at 1723 and 1563 cm{sup -1}, indicative of ester formation in the modified starch. For the 3% modification level, the degree ofmore » substitution (DS) was low (0.019) and the distribution of the ester group was not uniform among starch granules. For the modified starch with DS of 0.073, 99% of individual starch granules had a large carbonyl band area, indicating that most granules were modified to a sufficient extent that the presence of their carbonyl ester classified them individually as being modified. However, the octenyl succinate concentration varied between granules, suggesting that the reaction was not uniform. When modified starch (DS = 0.073) was blended with native starch (3:7, w/w) to achieve a mixture with an average DS of 0.019, FT-IR microspectroscopy was able to detect heterogeneity of octenyl succinate in the blend and determine the ratio of the modified starch to the native starch granules.« less

49 CFR 178.37 - Specification 3AA and 3AAX seamless steel cylinders.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... the Record of Chemical Analysis of Material for Cylinders required by § 178.35. This hardness test... Rephosphorized steels not subject to check analysis for phosphorus. (c) Identification of material. Material must... cylinders. 178.37 Section 178.37 Transportation Other Regulations Relating to Transportation PIPELINE AND...

A novel protocol for the production of recombinant LL-37 expressed as a thioredoxin fusion protein.

PubMed

Li, Yifeng

2012-02-01

LL-37 is the only cathelicidin-derived antimicrobial peptide found in humans and it has a multifunctional role in host defense. The peptide has been shown to possess immunomodulatory functions in addition to antimicrobial activity. To provide sufficient material for biological and structural characterization of this important peptide, various systems were developed to produce recombinant LL-37 in Escherichia coli. In one previous approach, LL-37 coding sequence was cloned into vector pET-32a, allowing the peptide to be expressed as a thioredoxin fusion. The fusion protein contains two thrombin cleavage sites: a vector-encoded one that is 30-residue upstream of the insert and an engineered one that is immediately adjacent to LL-37. Cleavage at these two sites shall generate three fragments, one of which is the target peptide. However, when the fusion protein was treated with thrombin, cleavage only occurred at the remote upstream site. A plausible explanation is that the thrombin site adjacent to LL-37 is less accessible due to the peptide's aggregation tendency and cleavage at the remote site generates a fragment, which forms a large aggregate that buries the intended site. In this study, I deleted the vector-encoded thrombin site and S tag in pET-32a, and then inserted the coding sequence for LL-37 plus a thrombin site into the modified vector. Although removing the S tag did not change the oligomeric state of the fusion protein, deletion of the vector-encoded thrombin site allowed the fusion to be cleaved at the engineered site to release LL-37. The released peptide was separated from the carrier and cleavage enzyme by size-exclusion chromatography. This new approach enables a quick production of high quality active LL-37 with a decent amount. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Integrated injury prevention program improves balance and vertical jump height in children.

PubMed

DiStefano, Lindsay J; Padua, Darin A; Blackburn, J Troy; Garrett, William E; Guskiewicz, Kevin M; Marshall, Stephen W

2010-02-01

Implementing an injury prevention program to athletes under age 12 years may reduce injury rates. There is limited knowledge regarding whether these young athletes will be able to modify balance and performance measures after completing a traditional program that has been effective with older athletes or whether they require a specialized program for their age. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of a pediatric program, which was designed specifically for young athletes, and a traditional program with no program in the ability to change balance and performance measures in youth athletes. We used a cluster-randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effects of the programs before and after a 9-week intervention period. Sixty-five youth soccer athletes (males: n = 37 mass = 34.16 +/- 5.36 kg, height = 143.07 +/- 6.27 cm, age = 10 +/- 1 yr; females: n = 28 mass = 33.82 +/- 5.37 kg, height = 141.02 +/- 6.59 cm) volunteered to participate and attended 2 testing sessions in a research laboratory. Teams were cluster-randomized to either a pediatric or traditional injury prevention program or a control group. Change scores for anterior-posterior and medial-lateral time-to-stabilization measures and maximum vertical jump height and power were calculated from pretest and post-test sessions. Contrary with our original hypotheses, the traditional program resulted in positive changes, whereas the pediatric program did not result in any improvements. Anterior-posterior time-to-stabilization decreased after the traditional program (mean change +/- SD = -0.92 +/- 0.49 s) compared with the control group (-0.49 +/- 0.59 s) (p = 0.003). The traditional program also increased vertical jump height (1.70 +/- 2.80 cm) compared with the control group (0.20 +/- 0.20 cm) (p = 0.04). There were no significant differences between control and pediatric programs. Youth athletes can improve balance ability and vertical jump height after completing an injury prevention program. Training specificity appears to affect improvements and should be considered with future program design.

The importance of scaling for detecting community patterns: success and failure in assemblages of introduced species

USGS Publications Warehouse

Allen, Craig R.; Angeler, David G.; Moulton, Michael P.; Holling, Crawford S.

2015-01-01

Community saturation can help to explain why biological invasions fail. However, previous research has documented inconsistent relationships between failed invasions (i.e., an invasive species colonizes but goes extinct) and the number of species present in the invaded community. We use data from bird communities of the Hawaiian island of Oahu, which supports a community of 38 successfully established introduced birds and where 37 species were introduced but went extinct (failed invasions). We develop a modified approach to evaluate the effects of community saturation on invasion failure. Our method accounts (1) for the number of species present (NSP) when the species goes extinct rather than during its introduction; and (2) scaling patterns in bird body mass distributions that accounts for the hierarchical organization of ecosystems and the fact that interaction strength amongst species varies with scale. We found that when using NSP at the time of extinction, NSP was higher for failed introductions as compared to successful introductions, supporting the idea that increasing species richness and putative community saturation mediate invasion resistance. Accounting for scale-specific patterns in body size distributions further improved the relationship between NSP and introduction failure. Results show that a better understanding of invasion outcomes can be obtained when scale-specific community structure is accounted for in the analysis.

Comparison of two methods of cervical cerclage by ultrasound cervical measurement.

PubMed

Rozenberg, P; Sénat, M V; Gillet, A; Ville, Y

2003-05-01

To compare the effects of cerclage performed with a modified Shirodkar procedure or with McDonald's technique using transvaginal ultrasound measurement of the distance between the external os and the suture. We performed a retrospective study of all patients who underwent a prophylactic cerclage with either the modified Shirodkar procedure or the McDonald's technique over a 3-year period. Physicians chose the cerclage technique according to their own preferences. Transvaginal ultrasound examination of the cervix was performed 2 weeks after the cerclage to measure its functional length and the distance between the external os and the cerclage. During the study period, 14 patients had a cerclage with the modified Shirodkar procedure and 19 patients with the McDonald's technique. Twelve of these 33 patients (36.4%) delivered before 37 weeks. The obstetric characteristics of the patients in both groups were similar. There were no significant differences between the Shirodkar and McDonald groups as to the functional cervical length before (31.3 +/- 8.7 vs. 35.6 +/- 9.7 mm, respectively) or after (37.0 +/- 7.3 vs. 36.1 +/- 7.9 mm) cerclage, the distance between the external os and cerclage (16.7 +/- 3.8 vs. 14.0 +/- 5.2 mm), or the number of deliveries before 32 (0 vs. 2) and 34 (1 vs. 3) weeks. The anterior colpotomy of the Shirodkar procedure increased the distance between the external os and the cerclage by a mean of 2.7 mm. This slight gain does not justify exposing the patient to the risks related to this procedure. When cerclage is necessary, McDonald's technique seems preferable.

9 CFR 77.11 - Modified accredited States or zones.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... TUBERCULOSIS Cattle and Bison § 77.11 Modified accredited States or zones. (a) The following are modified... the “Uniform Methods and Rules—Bovine Tuberculosis Eradication” (January 22, 1999, edition), which is...) If tuberculosis is diagnosed within a modified accredited State or zone in an animal not specifically...

Gemini IV Mission Image - Baja California, Colorado river and Sonora Desert

NASA Image and Video Library

1965-06-05

S65-34673 (3-7 June 1965) --- This photograph shows the north end of the Gulf of California at the mouth of the Colorado River as it was seen from the Gemini-4 spacecraft during orbital flight June 3-7, 1965. This picture was part of the Synoptic Terrain Photography experiments conducted during the flight to obtain high quality photographs of large land areas already mapped by aerial photography. In charge of these experiments was Dr. Paul D. Lowman Jr., NASA geologist from Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Md. This picture was taken with a modified 70mm Hasselblad camera using Eastman color film, ASA 64 at a lens setting of 250th of a second at f/11.

Epitope mapping of monoclonal antibodies directed to aminopeptidase A and their relevance for albuminuria in mice.

PubMed

Gerlofs-Nijland, Miriam E; Assmann, Karel J M; van Son, Jacco P H F; Dijkman, Henry B P M; te Loeke, Nathalie A J M; van der Zee, Ruurd; Wetzels, Jack F M; Groenen, Patricia J T A

2003-01-01

We have shown previously that injection of specific combinations of anti-aminopeptidase A monoclonal antibodies induces an acute massive albuminuria in mice. This albuminuria is neither dependent on systemic mediators of inflammation nor angiotensin II. In this study, we examined the contribution of two individual antibodies, the enzyme-inhibiting antibody ASD-37 and the non-enzyme-inhibiting antibody ASD-41, in the induction of albuminuria as well as the interactions between these two monoclonals. In addition, we have mapped the epitopes of both antibodies using in vitro coupled transcription/translation of specifically designed cDNA fragments followed by immunoprecipitation, and using peptide enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in case of a continuous epitope. A single intravenous injection of 4 mg of either ASD-37 or ASD-41 did not induce albuminuria. This dose of ASD-37 did not completely inhibit enzyme activity. The combination of 4 mg ASD-37/41 (1:1 weight ratio) induced albuminuria and almost completely inhibited enzyme activity. Similar results were obtained with a combination of ASD-37/41 in a 1:39 or 39:1 weight ratio. Administration of 2 mg ASD-41 24 h before injection of 2 mg ASD-37 significantly enhanced albuminuria. The epitope of ASD-37 is located at the C-terminal end of aminopeptidase A, whereas the ASD-41 epitope is mapped near the enzyme active site. Our data suggest that ASD-41 modulates the binding of ASD-37 to its epitope and/or vice versa. As a consequence, ASD-37 and ASD-41 act synergistically, not only in inhibiting enzyme activity but also in inducing albuminuria. Copyright 2003 S. Karger AG, Basel

EC00-0198-2

NASA Image and Video Library

2000-06-22

Aerospace industry representatives view actual and mock-up versions of 'X-Planes' intended to enhance access to space during a technical exposition on June 22, 2000 at Dryden Flight Research Center, Edwards, California. From left to right: NASA's B-52 launch aircraft, in service with NASA from 1959 to 2004; a neutral-buoyancy model of the Boeing's X-37; the Boeing X-40A behind the MicroCraft X-43 mock-up; Orbital Science's X-34 and the modified Lockheed L-1011 airliner that was intended to launch the X-34. These X-vehicles are part of NASA's Access to Space plan intended to bring new technologies to bear in an effort to dramatically lower the cost of putting payloads in space, and near-space environments. The June 22, 2000 NASA Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) Technology Exposition included presentations on the history, present, and future of NASA's RLV program. Special Sessions for industry representatives highlighted the X-37 project and its related technologies. The X-37 project is managed by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, Alabama.

EC00-0198-102

NASA Image and Video Library

2000-06-22

Aerospace industry representatives view actual and mock-up versions of 'X-Planes' intended to enhance access to space during a technical exposition on June 22, 2000 at Dryden Flight Research Center, Edwards, California. From left to right: NASA's B-52 launch aircraft, in service with NASA since 1959; a neutral-buoyancy model of the Boeing's X-37; the Boeing X-40A behind the MicroCraft X-43 mock-up; Orbital Science's X-34 and the modified Lockheed L-1011 airliner that was intended to launch the X-34. These X-vehicles are part of NASA's Access to Space plan intended to bring new technologies to bear in an effort to dramatically lower the cost of putting payloads in space, and near-space environments. The June 22, 2000 NASA Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) Technology Exposition included presentations on the history, present, and future of NASA's RLV program. Special Sessions for industry representatives highlighted the X-37 project and its related technologies. The X-37 project is managed by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, Alabama.

EC00-0198-1

NASA Image and Video Library

2000-06-22

Aerospace industry representatives view actual and mock-up versions of 'X-Planes' intended to enhance access to space during a technical exposition on June 22, 2000 at Dryden Flight Research Center, Edwards, California. From left to right: NASA's B-52 launch aircraft, in service with NASA from 1959 to 2004; a neutral-buoyancy model of the Boeing's X-37; the Boeing X-40A behind the MicroCraft X-43 mock-up; Orbital Science's X-34 and the modified Lockheed L-1011 airliner that was intended to launch the X-34. These X-vehicles are part of NASA's Access to Space plan intended to bring new technologies to bear in an effort to dramatically lower the cost of putting payloads in space, and near-space environments. The June 22, 2000 NASA Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) Technology Exposition included presentations on the history, present, and future of NASA's RLV program. Special Sessions for industry representatives highlighted the X-37 project and its related technologies. The X-37 project is managed by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, Alabama.

EC00-0198-85

NASA Image and Video Library

2000-06-22

Aerospace industry representatives view actual and mock-up versions of 'X-Planes' intended to enhance access to space during a technical exposition on June 22, 2000 at Dryden Flight Research Center, Edwards, California. From left to right: NASA's B-52 launch aircraft, in service with NASA since 1959; a neutral-buoyancy model of the Boeing's X-37; the Boeing X-40A behind the MicroCraft X-43 mock-up; Orbital Science's X-34 and the modified Lockheed L-1011 airliner that was intended to launch the X-34. These X-vehicles are part of NASA's Access to Space plan intended to bring new technologies to bear in an effort to dramatically lower the cost of putting payloads in space, and near-space environments. The June 22, 2000 NASA Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) Technology Exposition included presentations on the history, present, and future of NASA's RLV program. Special Sessions for industry representatives highlighted the X-37 project and its related technologies. The X-37 project is managed by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, Alabama.

Long term cancer-specific anxiety in men undergoing active surveillance for prostate cancer: findings from a large prospective cohort.

PubMed

Marzouk, Karim; Assel, Melissa; Ehdaie, Behfar; Vickers, Andrew

2018-06-07

Active surveillance is the preferred management of men with low-risk prostate cancer. Cancer-specific anxiety during active surveillance remains understudied. We sought to report long-term anxiety for men on active surveillance to determine if interventions need to be tailored to improve adherence. Four hundred and thirteen men enrolled in active surveillance at a single tertiary care center completed quality of life surveys as part of routine care. A modified version of the Memorial Anxiety Scale for Prostate Cancer was used to determine cancer-specific anxiety. Generalized estimating equations evaluated the association between anxiety and length of time on surveillance. Additionally, we examined associations between anxiety and patient age, marital status, Gleason score, number of positive cores, family history, and overall health. The median age of men was 61 years with a median PSA at diagnosis 4.4 ng/ml; 95% of patients had Gleason 6 disease. The median time from initiation of active surveillance to last survey was 3.7 years. There was a 29% risk of reporting cancer-specific anxiety within the first year. Anxiety significantly decreased over time (OR=0.87; 95% CI: 0.79, 0.95; p=0.003). Pathologic and demographic characteristics were not associated with anxiety after adjusting for time on surveillance. In men undergoing active surveillance, we observed a moderate risk of cancer-specific anxiety that significantly decreases over time. Those considering conservative management can be informed that, although it is common experience some anxiety initially, most patients rapidly adjust and report low levels of anxiety within 2 years. Copyright © 2018 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

40 CFR 721.9513 - Modified magnesium silicate polymer (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 30 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Modified magnesium silicate polymer... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.9513 Modified magnesium silicate polymer (generic). (a) Chemical... as modified magnesium silicate polymer (PMN P-98-604) is subject to reporting under this section for...

40 CFR 721.9513 - Modified magnesium silicate polymer (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 31 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Modified magnesium silicate polymer... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.9513 Modified magnesium silicate polymer (generic). (a) Chemical... as modified magnesium silicate polymer (PMN P-98-604) is subject to reporting under this section for...

40 CFR 721.10504 - Surface modified magnesium hydroxide (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 32 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Surface modified magnesium hydroxide... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10504 Surface modified magnesium hydroxide (generic). (a) Chemical... as surface modified magnesium hydroxide (PMN P-06-682) is subject to reporting under this section for...

40 CFR 721.10504 - Surface modified magnesium hydroxide (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 31 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Surface modified magnesium hydroxide... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10504 Surface modified magnesium hydroxide (generic). (a) Chemical... as surface modified magnesium hydroxide (PMN P-06-682) is subject to reporting under this section for...

40 CFR 721.10119 - Siloxane modified silica nanoparticles (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 30 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Siloxane modified silica nanoparticles... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10119 Siloxane modified silica nanoparticles (generic). (a) Chemical... as siloxane modified silica nanoparticles (PMN P-05-673) is subject to reporting under this section...

40 CFR 721.10119 - Siloxane modified silica nanoparticles (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 31 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Siloxane modified silica nanoparticles... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10119 Siloxane modified silica nanoparticles (generic). (a) Chemical... as siloxane modified silica nanoparticles (PMN P-05-673) is subject to reporting under this section...

40 CFR 721.10119 - Siloxane modified silica nanoparticles (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 31 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Siloxane modified silica nanoparticles... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10119 Siloxane modified silica nanoparticles (generic). (a) Chemical... as siloxane modified silica nanoparticles (PMN P-05-673) is subject to reporting under this section...

40 CFR 721.10119 - Siloxane modified silica nanoparticles (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 32 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Siloxane modified silica nanoparticles... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10119 Siloxane modified silica nanoparticles (generic). (a) Chemical... as siloxane modified silica nanoparticles (PMN P-05-673) is subject to reporting under this section...

40 CFR 721.10119 - Siloxane modified silica nanoparticles (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 32 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Siloxane modified silica nanoparticles... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10119 Siloxane modified silica nanoparticles (generic). (a) Chemical... as siloxane modified silica nanoparticles (PMN P-05-673) is subject to reporting under this section...

40 CFR 721.9513 - Modified magnesium silicate polymer (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 32 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Modified magnesium silicate polymer... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.9513 Modified magnesium silicate polymer (generic). (a) Chemical... as modified magnesium silicate polymer (PMN P-98-604) is subject to reporting under this section for...

40 CFR 721.9513 - Modified magnesium silicate polymer (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 31 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Modified magnesium silicate polymer... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.9513 Modified magnesium silicate polymer (generic). (a) Chemical... as modified magnesium silicate polymer (PMN P-98-604) is subject to reporting under this section for...

40 CFR 721.9513 - Modified magnesium silicate polymer (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 32 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Modified magnesium silicate polymer... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.9513 Modified magnesium silicate polymer (generic). (a) Chemical... as modified magnesium silicate polymer (PMN P-98-604) is subject to reporting under this section for...

An evaluation of a rapid real time polymerase chain reaction assay for detection of group B streptococcus as part of a neonatal group B streptococcus prevention strategy.

PubMed

Money, Deborah; Dobson, Simon; Cole, Lesley; Karacabeyli, Eda; Blondel-Hill, Edith; Milner, Ruth; Thomas, Eva

2008-09-01

To evaluate the sensitivity, specificity, and feasibility of a rapid real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test for group B streptococcus (GBS) completed during labour, compared with the standard culture test performed at 35 to 37 weeks' gestation. Women presenting to the maternity unit for term vaginal delivery had two vaginal/rectal samples collected. One swab was tested using a rapid PCR method (IDI-Strep B, Infectio Diagnostic [IDI] Inc., Sainte-Foy QC ), and the other was cultured after enrichment (intrapartum culture). Comparisons were made between these results and those of a culture-based screen at 35 to 37 weeks' gestation. Of the 190 women enrolled, 85% had results of the standard screen at 35 to 37 weeks available for comparison. The sensitivity and specificity of the standard 35- to 37-week screen were 84.3% (95% confidence interval [CI], 71.4-93.0) and 93.2% (95% CI 86.5-97.2) respectively, whereas the sensitivity and specificity of the rapid PCR were 90.7% (95% CI 79.7-96.9) and 97.6% (95% CI 93.1-99.5), respectively. The median reporting time for the rapid PCR test was 99 minutes (range 50-255). Results were available more than four hours before delivery in 81% of cases. In this Canadian centre, a rapid PCR test done at the time of labour (IDI-Strep B) demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity, comparable to the 35- to 37-week screen. The time to reporting results was acceptably short, allowing for timely administration of intrapartum prophylactic antibiotics.

Catalytically active alkaline molten globular enzyme: Effect of pH and temperature on the structural integrity of 5-aminolevulinate synthase.

PubMed

Stojanovski, Bosko M; Breydo, Leonid; Hunter, Gregory A; Uversky, Vladimir N; Ferreira, Gloria C

2014-12-01

5-Aminolevulinate synthase (ALAS), a pyridoxal-5'phosphate (PLP)-dependent enzyme, catalyzes the first step of heme biosynthesis in mammals. Circular dichroism (CD) and fluorescence spectroscopies were used to examine the effects of pH (1.0-3.0 and 7.5-10.5) and temperature (20 and 37°C) on the structural integrity of ALAS. The secondary structure, as deduced from far-UV CD, is mostly resilient to pH and temperature changes. Partial unfolding was observed at pH2.0, but further decreasing pH resulted in acid-induced refolding of the secondary structure to nearly native levels. The tertiary structure rigidity, monitored by near-UV CD, is lost under acidic and specific alkaline conditions (pH10.5 and pH9.5/37°C), where ALAS populates a molten globule state. As the enzyme becomes less structured with increased alkalinity, the chiral environment of the internal aldimine is also modified, with a shift from a 420nm to 330nm dichroic band. Under acidic conditions, the PLP cofactor dissociates from ALAS. Reaction with 8-anilino-1-naphthalenesulfonic acid corroborates increased exposure of hydrophobic clusters in the alkaline and acidic molten globules, although the reaction is more pronounced with the latter. Furthermore, quenching the intrinsic fluorescence of ALAS with acrylamide at pH1.0 and 9.5 yielded subtly different dynamic quenching constants. The alkaline molten globule state of ALAS is catalytically active (pH9.5/37°C), although the kcat value is significantly decreased. Finally, the binding of 5-aminolevulinate restricts conformational fluctuations in the alkaline molten globule. Overall, our findings prove how the structural plasticity of ALAS contributes to reaching a functional enzyme. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Modification of nitrifying biofilm into nitritating one by combination of increased free ammonia concentrations, lowered HRT and dissolved oxygen concentration.

PubMed

Zekker, Ivar; Rikmann, Ergo; Tenno, Toomas; Menert, Anne; Lemmiksoo, Vallo; Saluste, Alar; Tenno, Taavo; Tomingas, Martin

2011-01-01

Nitrifying biomass on ring-shaped carriers was modified to nitritating one in a relatively short period of time (37 days) by limiting the air supply, changing the aeration regime, shortening the hydraulic retention time and increasing free ammonia (FA) concentration in the moving-bed biofilm reactor (MBBR). The most efficient strategy for the development and maintenance of nitritating biofilm was found to be the inhibition of nitrifying activity by higher FA concentrations (up to 6.5 mg/L) in the process. Reject water from sludge treatment from the Tallinn Wastewater Treatment Plant was used as substrate in the MBBR. The performance of high-surfaced biocarriers taken from the nitritating activity MBBR was further studied in batch tests to investigate nitritation and nitrification kinetics with various FA concentrations and temperatures. The maximum nitrite accumulation ratio (96.6%) expressed as the percentage of NO2(-)-N/NOx(-)-N was achieved for FA concentration of 70 mg/L at 36 degrees C. Under the same conditions the specific nitrite oxidation rate achieved was 30 times lower than the specific nitrite formation rate. It was demonstrated that in the biofilm system, inhibition by FA combined with the optimization of the main control parameters is a good strategy to achieve nitritating activity and suppress nitrification.

Testing the radiosurgery-based arteriovenous malformation score and the modified Spetzler-Martin grading system to predict radiosurgical outcome.

PubMed

Andrade-Souza, Yuri M; Zadeh, Gelareh; Ramani, Meera; Scora, Daryl; Tsao, May N; Schwartz, Michael L

2005-10-01

The aim of this study was to validate the radiosurgery-based arteriovenous malformation (AVM) score and the modified Spetzler-Martin grading system to predict radiosurgical outcome. One hundred thirty-six patients with brain AVMs were randomly selected. These patients had undergone a linear accelerator radiosurgical procedure at a single center between 1989 and 2000. Patients were divided into four groups according to an AVM score, which was calculated from the lesion volume, lesion location, and patient age (Group 1, AVM score <1; Group 2, AVM score 1-1.49; Group 3, AVM score 1.5-2; and Group 4, AVM score >2). Patients with a Spetzler-Martin Grade III AVM were divided into Grades IIIA (lesion >3 cm) and IIIB (lesion <3 cm). Sixty-two female (45.6%) and 74 male (54.4%) patients with a median age of 37.5 years (mean 37.5 years, range 5-77 years) were followed up for a median of 40 months. The median tumor margin dose was 15 Gy (mean 17.23 Gy, range 15-25 Gy). The proportions of excellent outcomes according to the AVM score were as follows: 91.7% for Group 1, 74.1% for Group 2, 60% for Group 3, and 33.3% for Group 4 (chi-square test, degrees of freedom (df) = 3, p < 0.001). Based on the modified Spetzler-Martin system, Grade I lesions had 88.9% excellent results; Grade II, 69.6%; Grade IIIB, 61.5%; and Grades IIIA and IV, 44.8% (chi-square test, df = 3, p = 0.047). The radiosurgery-based AVM score can be used accurately to predict excellent results following a single radiosurgical treatment for AVM. The modified Spetzler-Martin system can also predict radiosurgical results for AVMs, thus making it possible to use this system while deciding between surgery and radiosurgery.

Design of patient-specific gait modifications for knee osteoarthritis rehabilitation.

PubMed

Fregly, Benjamin J; Reinbolt, Jeffrey A; Rooney, Kelly L; Mitchell, Kim H; Chmielewski, Terese L

2007-09-01

Abstract-Gait modification is a nonsurgical approach for reducing the external knee adduction torque in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). The magnitude of the first adduction torque peak in particular is strongly associated with knee OA progression. While toeing out has been shown to reduce the second peak, no clinically realistic gait modifications have been identified that effectively reduce both peaks simultaneously. This study predicts novel patient-specific gait modifications that achieve this goal without changing the foot path. The modified gait motion was designed for a single patient with knee OA using dynamic optimization of a patient-specific, full-body gait model. The cost function minimized the knee adduction torque subject to constraints limiting how much the new gait motion could deviate from the patient's normal gait motion. The optimizations predicted a "medial-thrust" gait pattern that reduced the first adduction torque peak between 32% and 54% and the second peak between 34% and 56%. The new motion involved three synergistic kinematic changes: slightly decreased pelvis obliquity, slightly increased leg flexion, and slightly increased pelvis axial rotation. After gait retraining, the patient achieved adduction torque reductions of 39% to 50% in the first peak and 37% to 55% in the second one. These reductions are comparable to those reported after high tibial osteotomy surgery. The associated kinematic changes were consistent with the predictions except for pelvis obliquity, which showed little change. This study demonstrates that it is feasible to design novel patient-specific gait modifications with potential clinical benefit using dynamic optimization of patient-specific, full-body gait models. Further investigation is needed to assess the extent to which similar gait modifications may be effective for other patients with knee OA.

50 CFR 37.32 - Special areas.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE SYSTEM GEOLOGICAL AND GEOPHYSICAL EXPLORATION OF THE COASTAL PLAIN, ARCTIC NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE, ALASKA Environmental Protection § 37.32 Special areas. (a) Caribou calving and post-calving special areas. The Regional Director shall designate within the coastal plain specific...

50 CFR 37.32 - Special areas.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE SYSTEM GEOLOGICAL AND GEOPHYSICAL EXPLORATION OF THE COASTAL PLAIN, ARCTIC NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE, ALASKA Environmental Protection § 37.32 Special areas. (a) Caribou calving and post-calving special areas. The Regional Director shall designate within the coastal plain specific...

50 CFR 37.32 - Special areas.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE SYSTEM GEOLOGICAL AND GEOPHYSICAL EXPLORATION OF THE COASTAL PLAIN, ARCTIC NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE, ALASKA Environmental Protection § 37.32 Special areas. (a) Caribou calving and post-calving special areas. The Regional Director shall designate within the coastal plain specific...

50 CFR 37.32 - Special areas.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE SYSTEM GEOLOGICAL AND GEOPHYSICAL EXPLORATION OF THE COASTAL PLAIN, ARCTIC NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE, ALASKA Environmental Protection § 37.32 Special areas. (a) Caribou calving and post-calving special areas. The Regional Director shall designate within the coastal plain specific...

50 CFR 37.32 - Special areas.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE SYSTEM GEOLOGICAL AND GEOPHYSICAL EXPLORATION OF THE COASTAL PLAIN, ARCTIC NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE, ALASKA Environmental Protection § 37.32 Special areas. (a) Caribou calving and post-calving special areas. The Regional Director shall designate within the coastal plain specific...

Impact of different cultivation and induction regimes on the structure of cytosolic inclusion bodies of TEM1-beta-lactamase.

PubMed

Margreiter, Gerd; Schwanninger, Manfred; Bayer, Karl; Obinger, Christian

2008-10-01

The enzyme TEM1-beta-lactamase has been used as a model to study the impact of different cultivation and induction regimes on the structure of cytosolic inclusion bodies (IBs). The protein has been heterologously expressed in Escherichia coli in fed-batch cultivations at different temperatures (30, 37, and 40 degrees C) as well as induction regimes that guaranteed distinct product formation rates and ratios of soluble to aggregated protein. Additionally, shake flask cultivations at 20, 30, and 37 degrees C were performed. IBs were sampled during the whole bioprocess and structural analysis was performed by attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FT-IR) spectroscopy. This work clearly demonstrates that the tested production regimes and rates had no impact on the IB structure, which was characterized by decreased alpha-helical and increased and modified beta-sheet contents compared to the native protein. Moreover, aggregates formed during refolding of IBs by solubilization and simple dilution showed very similar FT-IR spectra suggesting (i) the existence of only one critical folding step from which either aggregation (IB formation) or native folding branches off, and (ii) underlining the important role of the specific amino acid sequence in aggregation. The findings are discussed with respect to the known structure of TEM1-beta-lactamase and the reported kinetics of its (un)folding as well as contradictory data on the effect of cultivation regimes on IB structure(s) of other proteins.

An association of cognitive impairment with diabetes and retinopathy in end stage renal disease patients under peritoneal dialysis.

PubMed

Liao, Jin-Lan; Xiong, Zu-Ying; Yang, Zhi-Kai; Hao, Li; Liu, Gui-Ling; Ren, Ye-Ping; Wang, Qin; Duan, Li-Ping; Zheng, Zhao-Xia; Dong, Jie

2017-01-01

Diabetes and retinopathy have been considered as risk factors of cognitive impairment (CI) in previous studies. We investigated both of these two factors and their relationship with global and specific cognitive functions in end stage renal disease patients under peritoneal dialysis (PD). In this multicenter cross-sectional study, 424 clinically stable patients were enrolled from 5 PD units, who performed PD for at least three months and completed fundoscopy examination if they had diabetes. Global cognitive function was measured using the Modified Mini-Mental State Examination (3MS), Trail-Making Test forms A and B for executive function, and subtests of the Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status for immediate and delayed memory, visuospatial skills, and language ability. PD Patients with DM and Retinopathy had significantly higher prevalence of CI, executive dysfunction, impaired immediate memory and visuospatial skill, compared with patients in non-DM group. By multivariate logistic regression analyses, DM and retinopathy rather than DM only were significantly associated with increased risk for CI, executive dysfunction, impaired immediate memory and visuospatial skill, odds ratios(ORs) and 95% confidence intervals were 2.09[1.11,3.92], 2.89[1.55,5.37], 2.16 [1.15,4.06] and 2.37[1.32,4.22], respectively (all P < 0.05). Diabetic PD patients with retinopathy were at two times risk for overall cognitive impairment, executive dysfunction, impaired immediate memory and visuospatial skill as compared to non-diabetic PD patients.

Application of Sepharose and Sephadex modified by means of radiation grafting in separation of biomolecules

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Jun; Yi, Min; Ha, Hongfei

1995-02-01

In this work Sepharose-NASI-BSA and Sephadex-NASI-BSA were prepared by means of pre-irradiation grafting and direct radiation grafting separately. The radiation grafting condition were given. In order to get those compounds the conjugation reaction between NASI and BSA was investigated as well. The reaction was performed at 37 °C for 2hs, but in the case of Sephadex-NASI, it took longer time, 6hs, to finish the conjugation reaction. The application of the radiation modified matrixes as a kind of filling materials of column chromatography in separation of D,L-tryptophans was studied. The results showed that this method was accessible after some improvements.

40 CFR 721.3135 - Phosphorous modified epoxy resin (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 31 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Phosphorous modified epoxy resin... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.3135 Phosphorous modified epoxy resin (generic). (a) Chemical substance... phosphorous modified epoxy resin (PMNs P-00-992 and P-01-471) is subject to reporting under this section for...

40 CFR 721.3135 - Phosphorous modified epoxy resin (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 30 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Phosphorous modified epoxy resin... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.3135 Phosphorous modified epoxy resin (generic). (a) Chemical substance... phosphorous modified epoxy resin (PMNs P-00-992 and P-01-471) is subject to reporting under this section for...

40 CFR 721.10603 - Epoxy modified alkyd resin, partially neutralized (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 31 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Epoxy modified alkyd resin, partially... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10603 Epoxy modified alkyd resin, partially neutralized (generic). (a... generically as epoxy modified alkyd resin, partially neutralized (PMN P-11-280) is subject to reporting under...

40 CFR 721.3135 - Phosphorous modified epoxy resin (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 31 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Phosphorous modified epoxy resin... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.3135 Phosphorous modified epoxy resin (generic). (a) Chemical substance... phosphorous modified epoxy resin (PMNs P-00-992 and P-01-471) is subject to reporting under this section for...

40 CFR 721.3135 - Phosphorous modified epoxy resin (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 32 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Phosphorous modified epoxy resin... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.3135 Phosphorous modified epoxy resin (generic). (a) Chemical substance... phosphorous modified epoxy resin (PMNs P-00-992 and P-01-471) is subject to reporting under this section for...

40 CFR 721.3135 - Phosphorous modified epoxy resin (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 32 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Phosphorous modified epoxy resin... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.3135 Phosphorous modified epoxy resin (generic). (a) Chemical substance... phosphorous modified epoxy resin (PMNs P-00-992 and P-01-471) is subject to reporting under this section for...

40 CFR 721.10603 - Epoxy modified alkyd resin, partially neutralized (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 32 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Epoxy modified alkyd resin, partially... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10603 Epoxy modified alkyd resin, partially neutralized (generic). (a... generically as epoxy modified alkyd resin, partially neutralized (PMN P-11-280) is subject to reporting under...

40 CFR 721.10082 - Amine modified monomer acrylate (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 31 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Amine modified monomer acrylate... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10082 Amine modified monomer acrylate (generic). (a) Chemical substance... amine modified monomer acrylate (PMN P-06-29) is subject to reporting under this section for the...

40 CFR 721.10082 - Amine modified monomer acrylate (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 30 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Amine modified monomer acrylate... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10082 Amine modified monomer acrylate (generic). (a) Chemical substance... amine modified monomer acrylate (PMN P-06-29) is subject to reporting under this section for the...

40 CFR 721.3710 - Polyether modified fatty acids (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 30 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Polyether modified fatty acids... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.3710 Polyether modified fatty acids (generic). (a) Chemical substance... Polyether modified fatty acids (PMN P-99-0435) is subject to reporting under this section for the...

40 CFR 721.10089 - Modified salicylic acid, zirconium complex (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 31 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Modified salicylic acid, zirconium... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10089 Modified salicylic acid, zirconium complex (generic). (a) Chemical... as modified salicylic acid, zirconium complex (PMN P-00-552) is subject to reporting under this...

40 CFR 721.10089 - Modified salicylic acid, zirconium complex (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 30 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Modified salicylic acid, zirconium... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10089 Modified salicylic acid, zirconium complex (generic). (a) Chemical... as modified salicylic acid, zirconium complex (PMN P-00-552) is subject to reporting under this...

40 CFR 721.3710 - Polyether modified fatty acids (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 31 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Polyether modified fatty acids... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.3710 Polyether modified fatty acids (generic). (a) Chemical substance... Polyether modified fatty acids (PMN P-99-0435) is subject to reporting under this section for the...

Association of Periodic and Rhythmic Electroencephalographic Patterns With Seizures in Critically Ill Patients.

PubMed

Rodriguez Ruiz, Andres; Vlachy, Jan; Lee, Jong Woo; Gilmore, Emily J; Ayer, Turgay; Haider, Hiba Arif; Gaspard, Nicolas; Ehrenberg, J Andrew; Tolchin, Benjamin; Fantaneanu, Tadeu A; Fernandez, Andres; Hirsch, Lawrence J; LaRoche, Suzette

2017-02-01

Periodic and rhythmic electroencephalographic patterns have been associated with risk of seizures in critically ill patients. However, specific features that confer higher seizure risk remain unclear. To analyze the association of distinct characteristics of periodic and rhythmic patterns with seizures. We reviewed electroencephalographic recordings from 4772 critically ill adults in 3 academic medical centers from February 2013 to September 2015 and performed a multivariate analysis to determine features associated with seizures. Continuous electroencephalography. Association of periodic and rhythmic patterns and specific characteristics, such as pattern frequency (hertz), Plus modifier, prevalence, and stimulation-induced patterns, and the risk for seizures. Of the 4772 patients included in our study, 2868 were men and 1904 were women. Lateralized periodic discharges (LPDs) had the highest association with seizures regardless of frequency and the association was greater when the Plus modifier was present (58%; odds ratio [OR], 2.00, P < .001). Generalized periodic discharges (GPDs) and lateralized rhythmic delta activity (LRDA) were associated with seizures in a frequency-dependent manner (1.5-2 Hz: GPDs, 24%,OR, 2.31, P = .02; LRDA, 24%, OR, 1.79, P = .05; ≥ 2 Hz: GPDs, 32%, OR, 3.30, P < .001; LRDA, 40%, OR, 3.98, P < .001) as was the association with Plus (GPDs, 28%, OR, 3.57, P < .001; LRDA, 40%, P < .001). There was no difference in seizure incidence in patients with generalized rhythmic delta activity compared with no periodic or rhythmic pattern (13%, OR, 1.18, P = .26). Higher prevalence of LPDs and GPDs also conferred increased seizure risk (37% frequent vs 45% abundant/continuous, OR, 1.64, P = .03 for difference; 8% rare/occasional vs 15% frequent, OR, 2.71, P = .03, vs 23% abundant/continuous, OR, 1.95, P = .04). Patterns associated with stimulation did not show an additional risk for seizures from the underlying pattern risk (P > .10). In this study, LPDs, LRDA, and GPDs were associated with seizures while generalized rhythmic delta activity was not. Lateralized periodic discharges were associated with seizures at all frequencies with and without Plus modifier, but LRDA and GPDs were associated with seizures when the frequency was 1.5 Hz or faster or when associated with a Plus modifier. Increased pattern prevalence was associated with increased risk for seizures in LPDs and GPDs. Stimulus-induced patterns were not associated with such risk. These findings highlight the importance of detailed electroencephalographic interpretation using standardized nomenclature for seizure risk stratification and clinical decision making.

Suppression of innate inflammation and immunity by interleukin-37.

PubMed

Dinarello, Charles A; Nold-Petry, Claudia; Nold, Marcel; Fujita, Mayumi; Li, Suzhao; Kim, Soohyun; Bufler, Philip

2016-05-01

IL-37 is unique in the IL-1 family in that unlike other members of the family, IL-37 broadly suppresses innate immunity. IL-37 can be elevated in humans with inflammatory and autoimmune diseases where it likely functions to limit inflammation. Transgenic mice expressing human IL-37 (IL37-tg) exhibit less severe inflammation in models of endotoxin shock, colitis, myocardial infarction, lung, and spinal cord injury. IL37-tg mice have reduced antigen-specific responses and dendritic cells (DCs) from these mice exhibit characteristics of tolerogenic DCs. Compared to aging wild-type (WT) mice, aging IL37-tg mice are protected against B-cell leukemogenesis and heart failure. Treatment of WT mice with recombinant human IL-37 has been shown to be protective in several models of inflammation and injury. IL-37 binds to the IL-18 receptor but then recruits the orphan IL-1R8 (formerly TIR8 or SIGIRR) in order to function as an inhibitor. Here, we review the discovery of IL-37, its production, release, and mechanisms by which IL-37 reduces inflammation and suppresses immune responses. The data reviewed here suggest a therapeutic potential for IL-37. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Cytokine Responses to Novel Antigens in an Indian Population Living in an Area Endemic for Visceral Leishmaniasis

PubMed Central

Singh, Om Prakash; Stober, Carmel B.; Singh, Abhishek Kr.

2012-01-01

Background There are no effective vaccines for visceral leishmaniasis (VL), a neglected parasitic disease second only to malaria in global mortality. We previously identified 14 protective candidates in a screen of 100 Leishmania antigens as DNA vaccines in mice. Here we employ whole blood assays to evaluate human cytokine responses to 11 of these antigens, in comparison to known defined and crude antigen preparations. Methods Whole blood assays were employed to measure IFN-γ, TNF-α and IL-10 responses to peptide pools of the novel antigens R71, Q51, L37, N52, L302.06, J89, M18, J41, M22, M63, M57, as well as to recombinant proteins of tryparedoxin peroxidase (TRYP), Leishmania homolog of the receptor for activated C kinase (LACK) and to crude soluble Leishmania antigen (SLA), in Indian patients with active (n = 8) or cured (n = 16) VL, and in modified Quantiferon positive (EHC+ve, n = 20) or modified Quantiferon negative (EHC−ve, n = 9) endemic healthy controls (EHC). Results Active VL, cured VL and EHC+ve groups showed elevated SLA-specific IFN-γ, but only active VL patients produced IL-10 and EHC+ve did not make TNF-α. IFN-γ to IL-10 and TNF-α to IL-10 ratios in response to TRYP and LACK antigens were higher in cured VL and EHC+ve exposed individuals compared to active VL. Five of the eleven novel candidates (R71, L37, N52, J41, and M22) elicited IFN-γ and TNF-α, but not IL-10, responses in cured VL (55–87.5% responders) and EHC+ve (40–65% responders) subjects. Conclusions Our results are consistent with an important balance between pro-inflammatory IFNγ and TNFγ cytokine responses and anti-inflammatory IL-10 in determining outcome of VL in India, as highlighted by response to both crude and defined protein antigens. Importantly, cured VL patients and endemic Quantiferon positive individuals recognise 5 novel vaccine candidate antigens, confirming our recent data for L. chagasi in Brazil, and their potential as cross-species vaccine candidates. PMID:23150744

Cytokine responses to novel antigens in an Indian population living in an area endemic for visceral leishmaniasis.

PubMed

Singh, Om Prakash; Stober, Carmel B; Singh, Abhishek Kr; Blackwell, Jenefer M; Sundar, Shyam

2012-01-01

There are no effective vaccines for visceral leishmaniasis (VL), a neglected parasitic disease second only to malaria in global mortality. We previously identified 14 protective candidates in a screen of 100 Leishmania antigens as DNA vaccines in mice. Here we employ whole blood assays to evaluate human cytokine responses to 11 of these antigens, in comparison to known defined and crude antigen preparations. Whole blood assays were employed to measure IFN-γ, TNF-α and IL-10 responses to peptide pools of the novel antigens R71, Q51, L37, N52, L302.06, J89, M18, J41, M22, M63, M57, as well as to recombinant proteins of tryparedoxin peroxidase (TRYP), Leishmania homolog of the receptor for activated C kinase (LACK) and to crude soluble Leishmania antigen (SLA), in Indian patients with active (n = 8) or cured (n = 16) VL, and in modified Quantiferon positive (EHC(+ve), n = 20) or modified Quantiferon negative (EHC(-ve), n = 9) endemic healthy controls (EHC). Active VL, cured VL and EHC(+ve) groups showed elevated SLA-specific IFN-γ, but only active VL patients produced IL-10 and EHC(+ve) did not make TNF-α. IFN-γ to IL-10 and TNF-α to IL-10 ratios in response to TRYP and LACK antigens were higher in cured VL and EHC(+ve) exposed individuals compared to active VL. Five of the eleven novel candidates (R71, L37, N52, J41, and M22) elicited IFN-γ and TNF-α, but not IL-10, responses in cured VL (55-87.5% responders) and EHC(+ve) (40-65% responders) subjects. Our results are consistent with an important balance between pro-inflammatory IFNγ and TNFγ cytokine responses and anti-inflammatory IL-10 in determining outcome of VL in India, as highlighted by response to both crude and defined protein antigens. Importantly, cured VL patients and endemic Quantiferon positive individuals recognise 5 novel vaccine candidate antigens, confirming our recent data for L. chagasi in Brazil, and their potential as cross-species vaccine candidates.

The relationships between instrumented measurements of ankle and knee ligamentous laxity and generalized joint laxity.

PubMed

Pearsall, A W; Kovaleski, J E; Heitman, R J; Gurchiek, L R; Hollis, J M

2006-03-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether lower extremity joint laxity is a function of a particular joint and/or a generalizable characteristic (trait) of the person. Validated instrumented measurements of ankle and knee joint-specific laxity in the same individual were correlated to determine whether a relationship exists. In addition, ankle and knee joint-specific laxity were correlated with generalized joint laxity using the modified Beighton mobility index. Fifty-seven male and female athletes were studied. We examined dominant ankle laxity using an ankle arthrometer and dominate knee anterior laxity using the KT 2000. The dominant ankle was loaded in anteroposterior (AP) drawer and inversion-eversion (I-E) rotation. Laxity was measured as total AP displacement (millimeters) after +/-125 N of applied force and total I-E rotation (degrees) was measured after +/-4 N x m of applied torque. The dominant knee was loaded with an anterior drawer and laxity (millimeters) was measured after manual maximum displacement. Non-significant correlations were observed among the test variables for generalized joint laxity (0.21 to 0.37; P>0.05) and instrumented ankle and knee joint laxity (0.19 to 0.21; P>0.05). When examined by gender, no statistically significant correlations (0.05 to 0.40; P>0.05) were found for either generalized laxity or instrumented ankle and knee joint laxity. These results imply that ankle and knee joint laxity are joint-specific and not generalizable.

Increasing functional avidity of TCR-redirected T cells by removing defined N-glycosylation sites in the TCR constant domain

PubMed Central

Hauptrock, Beate; Malina, Victoria; Antunes, Edite; Voss, Ralf-Holger; Wolfl, Matthias; Strong, Roland; Theobald, Matthias; Greenberg, Philip D.

2009-01-01

Adoptive transfer of T lymphocytes transduced with a T cell receptor (TCR) to impart tumor reactivity has been reported as a potential strategy to redirect immune responses to target cancer cells (Schumacher, T.N. 2002. Nat. Rev. Immunol. 2:512–519). However, the affinity of most TCRs specific for shared tumor antigens that can be isolated is usually low. Thus, strategies to increase the affinity of TCRs or the functional avidity of TCR-transduced T cells might be therapeutically beneficial. Because glycosylation affects the flexibility, movement, and interactions of surface molecules, we tested if selectively removing conserved N-glycoslyation sites in the constant regions of TCR α or β chains could increase the functional avidity of T cells transduced with such modified TCRs. We observed enhanced functional avidity and improved recognition of tumor cells by T cells harboring TCR chains with reduced N-glycosylation (ΔTCR) as compared with T cells with wild-type (WT) TCR chains. T cells transduced with WT or ΔTCR chains bound tetramer equivalently at 4°C, but tetramer binding was enhanced at 37°C, predominantly as a result of reduced tetramer dissociation. This suggested a temperature-dependent mechanism such as TCR movement in the cell surface or structural changes of the TCR allowing improved multimerization. This strategy was effective with mouse and human TCRs specific for different antigens and, thus, should be readily translated to TCRs with any specificity. PMID:19171765

Cloning and expression of vgb gene in Bacillus cereus, improve phenol and p-nitrophenol biodegradation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vélez-Lee, Angel Eduardo; Cordova-Lozano, Felipe; Bandala, Erick R.; Sanchez-Salas, Jose Luis

2016-02-01

In this work, the vgb gene from Vitrocilla stercoraria was used to genetically modify a Bacillus cereus strain isolated from pulp and paper wastewater effluent. The gene was cloned in a multicopy plasmid (pUB110) or uni-copy gene using a chromosome integrative vector (pTrpBG1). B. cereus and its recombinant strains were used for phenol and p-nitrophenol biodegradation using aerobic or micro-aerobic conditions and two different temperatures (i.e. 37 and 25 °C). Complete (100%) phenol degradation was obtained for the strain where the multicopy of vgb gene was present, 98% for the strain where uni-copy gene was present and 45% for wild type strain for the same experimental conditions (i.e. 37 °C and aerobic condition). For p-nitrophenol degradation at the same conditions, the strain with the multi-copy vgb gene was capable to achieve 50% of biodegradation, ˜100% biodegradation was obtained using the uni-copy strain and ˜24% for wild type strain. When the micro-aerobic condition was tested, the biodegradation yield showed a significant decreased. The biodegradation trend observed for aerobic was similar for micro-aerobic assessments: the modified strains showed higher degradation rates when compared with wild type strain. For all experimental conditions, the highest p-nitrophenol degradation was observed using the strain with uni-copy of vgb gene. Besides the increase of biodegradative capability of the strain, insertion of the vgb gene was observed able to modify other morphological characteristics such as avoiding the typical flake formation in the B. cereus culture. In both cases, the modification seems to be related with the enhancement of oxygen supply to the cells generated by the vgb gene insertion. The application of the genetically modified microorganism (GMM) to the biodegradation of pollutants in contaminated water possesses high potential as an environmentally friendly technology to facing this emergent problem.

Cell-specific Labeling Enzymes for Analysis of Cell–Cell Communication in Continuous Co-culture*

PubMed Central

Tape, Christopher J.; Norrie, Ida C.; Worboys, Jonathan D.; Lim, Lindsay; Lauffenburger, Douglas A.; Jørgensen, Claus

2014-01-01

We report the orthologous screening, engineering, and optimization of amino acid conversion enzymes for cell-specific proteomic labeling. Intracellular endoplasmic-reticulum-anchored Mycobacterium tuberculosis diaminopimelate decarboxylase (DDCM.tub-KDEL) confers cell-specific meso-2,6-diaminopimelate-dependent proliferation to multiple eukaryotic cell types. Optimized lysine racemase (LyrM37-KDEL) supports D-lysine specific proliferation and efficient cell-specific isotopic labeling. When ectopically expressed in discrete cell types, these enzymes confer 90% cell-specific isotopic labeling efficiency after 10 days of co-culture. Moreover, DDCM.tub-KDEL and LyrM37-KDEL facilitate equally high cell-specific labeling fidelity without daily media exchange. Consequently, the reported novel enzyme pairing can be used to study cell-specific signaling in uninterrupted, continuous co-cultures. Demonstrating the importance of increased labeling stability for addressing novel biological questions, we compare the cell-specific phosphoproteome of fibroblasts in direct co-culture with epithelial tumor cells in both interrupted (daily media exchange) and continuous (no media exchange) co-cultures. This analysis identified multiple cell-specific phosphorylation sites specifically regulated in the continuous co-culture. Given their applicability to multiple cell types, continuous co-culture labeling fidelity, and suitability for long-term cell–cell phospho-signaling experiments, we propose DDCM.tub-KDEL and LyrM37-KDEL as excellent enzymes for cell-specific labeling with amino acid precursors. PMID:24820872

A Comparison of the OSHA Modified NIOSH Physical and Chemical Analytical Method (P and CAM) 304 and the Dust Trak Photometric Aerosol Sampler for 0-Chlorobenzylidine Malonitrile

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-04-02

photometric particle counting instrument, DustTrak, to the established OSHA modified NIOSH P&CAM 304 method to determine correlation between the two...study compared the non-specific, rapid photometric particle counting instrument, DustTrak, to the established OSHA modified NIOSH P&CAM 304 method...mask confidence training (27) . This study will compare a direct reading, non-specific photometric particle count instrument (DustTrak TSI Model

Does the modified Stroop effect exist in PTSD? Evidence from dissertation abstracts and the peer reviewed literature.

PubMed

Kimble, Matthew O; Frueh, B Christopher; Marks, Libby

2009-06-01

The modified Stroop effect (MSE), in which participants show delayed colour naming to trauma-specific words, is one of the most widely cited findings in the literature pertaining to cognitive bias in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The current study used a novel approach (Dissertation Abstract Review; DAR) to review the presence of the MSE in dissertation abstracts. A review of dissertations that used the modified Stroop task in a PTSD sample revealed that only 8% of the studies found delayed reaction times to trauma-specific words in participants with PTSD. The most common finding (75%) was for no PTSD-specific effects in colour naming trauma-relevant words. This ratio is significantly lower than ratios found in the peer reviewed literature, but even in the peer reviewed literature only 44% of controlled studies found the modified Stroop effect. These data suggest that a reevaluation of the MSE in PTSD is warranted.

Biosynthesis of poly-beta-hydroxyalkanoates by Sphingopyxis chilensis S37 and Wautersia sp. PZK cultured in cellulose pulp mill effluents containing 2,4,6-trichlorophenol.

PubMed

Tobella, Lorena M; Bunster, Marta; Pooley, Amalia; Becerra, José; Godoy, Felix; Martínez, Miguel A

2005-09-01

Poly-beta-hydroxyalkanoates (PHA) polymer is synthesized by different bacterial species. There has been considerable interest in the development and production of biodegradable polymers; however, the high cost of PHA production has restricted its applications. Kraft cellulose industry effluents containing 2,4,6-trichlorophenol (10 or 20 microg ml(-1)) were used by the bacteria Sphingopyxis chilensis S37 and Wautersia sp. PZK to synthesize PHA. In this condition, S. chilensis S37 was able to grow and degrade 2,4,6-trichlorophenol (ca. 60%) and 80% of these cells accumulated PHA. Wautersia PZK completely degraded 2,4,6-TCP and more than 90% of the cells accumulated PHA in 72 h. The PHA detection was performed by flow cytometry and polyester composition was characterized by gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS), indicating that these polymers are made by 3-hydroxybutyric acid and 3-hydroxyhexadecanoic acid for S37 and PZK strains, respectively. Results demonstrated that strains' growth and PHA production and composition are not modified in cellulose effluents with or without 2,4,6-TCP (10-20 microg ml(-1)). Therefore, our results indicate that S. chilensis S37 and Wautersia sp. PZK are able to degrade a toxic compound such as a 2,4,6-TCP and simultaneously produce a valuable biopolymer using low-value substrates.

Macrophage-Specific Expression of IL-37 in Hyperlipidemic Mice Attenuates Atherosclerosis.

PubMed

McCurdy, Sara; Baumer, Yvonne; Toulmin, Emma; Lee, Bog-Hieu; Boisvert, William A

2017-11-15

Atherosclerosis, the progressive buildup of plaque within arterial blood vessels, can lead to fatal downstream events, such as heart attack or stroke. A key event contributing to the development of atherosclerosis is the infiltration of monocytes and its associated inflammation, as well as the formation of lipid-laden macrophage foam cells within the vessel wall. IL-37 is recognized as an important anti-inflammatory cytokine expressed especially by immune cells. This study was undertaken to elucidate the role of macrophage-expressed IL-37 in reducing the production and effects of proinflammatory cytokines, preventing foam cell formation, and reducing the development of atherosclerosis. Expression of human IL-37 was achieved with a macrophage-specific overexpression system, using the CD68 promoter in mouse primary bone marrow-derived macrophages via retroviral transduction. Macrophage IL-37 expression in vitro resulted in decreased mRNA (e.g., IL-1B, IL-6, and IL-12) and secreted protein production (e.g., IL-6, M-CSF, and ICAM-1) of key inflammatory mediators. IL-37 expression also inhibited macrophage proliferation, apoptosis, and transmigration, as well as reduced lipid uptake, compared with controls in vitro. The in vivo effects of macrophage-expressed IL-37 were investigated through bone marrow transplantation of transduced hematopoietic stem cells into irradiated atherosclerosis-prone Ldlr -/- mice. After 10 wk on a high-fat/high-cholesterol diet, mice with IL-37-expressing macrophages showed reduced disease pathogenesis, which was demonstrated by significantly less arterial plaque development and systemic inflammation compared with control mice. The athero-protective effect of macrophage-expressed IL-37 has implications for development of future therapies to treat atherosclerosis, as well as other chronic inflammatory diseases. Copyright © 2017 by The American Association of Immunologists, Inc.

Language Laboratory Facilities: Technical Guide for the Selection, Purchase, Use, and Maintenance. New Media for Instruction, 4. Bulletin, 1963, No. 37. OE-21024

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hayes, Alfred S.

1963-01-01

During the past fifteen years, educators and electronics specialists have been experimenting with language facilities, usually by modifying equipment components which were originally designed for other purposes. The rapid growth, wide diversity, and newness of these electronic aids to language learning have created the need for a study of the most…

Short communication: Evaluation of a sol-gel-based stainless steel surface modification to reduce fouling and biofilm formation during pasteurization of milk.

PubMed

Liu, Dylan Zhe; Jindal, Shivali; Amamcharla, Jayendra; Anand, Sanjeev; Metzger, Lloyd

2017-04-01

Milk fouling and biofilms are common problems in the dairy industry across many types of processing equipment. One way to reduce milk fouling and biofilms is to modify the characteristics of milk contact surfaces. This study examines the viability of using Thermolon (Porcelain Industries Inc., Dickson, TN), a sol-gel-based surface modification of stainless steel, during thermal processing of milk. We used stainless steel 316L (control) and sol-gel-modified coupons in this study to evaluate fouling behavior and bacterial adhesion. The surface roughness as measured by an optical profiler indicated that the control coupons had a slightly smoother finish. Contact angle measurements showed that the modified surface led to a higher water contact angle, suggesting a more hydrophobic surface. The modified surface also had a lower surface energy (32.4 ± 1.4 mN/m) than the control surface (41.36 ± 2.7 mN/m). We evaluated the susceptibility of control and modified stainless steel coupons to fouling in a benchtop plate heat exchanger. We observed a significant reduction in the amount of fouled layer on modified surfaces. We found an average fouling weight of 19.21 mg/cm 2 and 0.37 mg/cm 2 on the control and modified stainless steel coupons, respectively. We also examined the adhesion of Bacillus and biofilm formation, and observed that the modified stainless steel surface offered greater resistance to biofilm formation. Overall, the Thermolon-modified surface showed potential in the thermal processing of milk, offering significantly lower fouling and bacterial attachment than the control surface. Copyright © 2017 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Modified local diatomite as potential functional drug carrier--A model study for diclofenac sodium.

PubMed

Janićijević, Jelena; Krajišnik, Danina; Čalija, Bojan; Vasiljević, Bojana Nedić; Dobričić, Vladimir; Daković, Aleksandra; Antonijević, Milan D; Milić, Jela

2015-12-30

Diatomite makes a promising candidate for a drug carrier because of its high porosity, large surface area, modifiable surface chemistry and biocompatibility. Herein, refined diatomite from Kolubara coal basin, which complied with the pharmacopoeial requirements for heavy metals content and microbiological quality, was used as a starting material. Inorganic modification of the starting material was performed through a simple, one-step procedure. Significant increase in adsorbent loading with diclofenac sodium (DS) was achieved after the modification process (∼373mg/g) which enabled the preparation of comprimates containing therapeutic dose of the adsorbed drug. Adsorption of DS onto modified diatomite resulted in the alteration of the drug's XRD pattern and FTIR spectrum. In vitro drug release studies in phosphate buffer pH 7.5 demonstrated prolonged DS release over 8h from comprimates containing DS adsorbed on modified diatomite (up to 37% after 8h) and those containing physical mixture of the same composition (up to 45% after 8h). The results of in vivo toxicity testing on mice pointed on potential safety of both unmodified (starting) and modified diatomite. All these findings favor the application of diatomite as a potential functional drug carrier. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Adaptive optics system application for solar telescope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lukin, V. P.; Grigor'ev, V. M.; Antoshkin, L. V.; Botugina, N. N.; Emaleev, O. N.; Konyaev, P. A.; Kovadlo, P. G.; Krivolutskiy, N. P.; Lavrionova, L. N.; Skomorovski, V. I.

2008-07-01

The possibility of applying adaptive correction to ground-based solar astronomy is considered. Several experimental systems for image stabilization are described along with the results of their tests. Using our work along several years and world experience in solar adaptive optics (AO) we are assuming to obtain first light to the end of 2008 for the first Russian low order ANGARA solar AO system on the Big Solar Vacuum Telescope (BSVT) with 37 subapertures Shack-Hartmann wavefront sensor based of our modified correlation tracker algorithm, DALSTAR video camera, 37 elements deformable bimorph mirror, home made fast tip-tip mirror with separate correlation tracker. Too strong daytime turbulence is on the BSVT site and we are planning to obtain a partial correction for part of Sun surface image.

75 FR 61611 - Modification of Class E Airspace; San Clemente, CA

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-10-06

... [Modified] San Clemente Island NALF (Fredrick Sherman Field), CA (Lat. 33[deg]01'22'' N., long. 118[deg]35'19'' W.) San Clemente Island TACAN (Lat. 33[deg]01'37'' N., long. 118[deg]34'46'' W.) That airspace... San Clemente, CA. Decommissioning of the San Clemente Island Non-Directional Radio Beacon (NDB) at San...

Aptamer-Functionalized Fluorescent Silica Nanoparticles for Highly Sensitive Detection of Leukemia Cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tan, Juntao; Yang, Nuo; Hu, Zixi; Su, Jing; Zhong, Jianhong; Yang, Yang; Yu, Yating; Zhu, Jianmeng; Xue, Dabin; Huang, Yingying; Lai, Zongqiang; Huang, Yong; Lu, Xiaoling; Zhao, Yongxiang

2016-06-01

A simple, highly sensitive method to detect leukemia cells has been developed based on aptamer-modified fluorescent silica nanoparticles (FSNPs). In this strategy, the amine-labeled Sgc8 aptamer was conjugated to carboxyl-modified FSNPs via amide coupling between amino and carboxyl groups. Sensitivity and specificity of Sgc8-FSNPs were assessed using flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy. These results showed that Sgc8-FSNPs detected leukemia cells with high sensitivity and specificity. Aptamer-modified FSNPs hold promise for sensitive and specific detection of leukemia cells. Changing the aptamer may allow the FSNPs to detect other types of cancer cells.

2'-modified nucleosides for site-specific labeling of oligonucleotides

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Krider, Elizabeth S.; Miller, Jeremiah E.; Meade, Thomas J.

2002-01-01

We report the synthesis of 2'-modified nucleosides designed specifically for incorporating labels into oligonucleotides. Conversion of these nucleosides to phosphoramidite and solid support-bound derivatives proceeds in good yield. Large-scale synthesis of 11-mer oligonucleotides possessing the 2'-modified nucleosides is achieved using these derivatives. Thermal denaturation studies indicate that the presence of 2'-modified nucleosides in 11-mer duplexes has minimal destabilizing effects on the duplex structure when the nucleosides are placed at the duplex termini. The powerful combination of phosphoramidite and support-bound derivatives of 2'-modified nucleosides affords the large-scale preparation of an entirely new class of oligonucleotides. The ability to synthesize oligonucleotides containing label attachment sites at 3', intervening, and 5' locations of a duplex is a significant advance in the development of oligonucleotide conjugates.

Anaerobic bacteria growth in the presence of cathelicidin LL-37 and selected ceragenins delivered as magnetic nanoparticles cargo.

PubMed

Durnaś, Bonita; Piktel, Ewelina; Wątek, Marzena; Wollny, Tomasz; Góźdź, Stanisław; Smok-Kalwat, Jolanta; Niemirowicz, Katarzyna; Savage, Paul B; Bucki, Robert

2017-07-26

Cationic antibacterial peptides (CAPs) and synthetic molecules mimicking the amphiphilic structure of CAPs, such as ceragenins, are promising compounds for the development of new antimicrobials. We tested the in vitro activity of ceragenins CSA-13 and CSA-131 against several anaerobic bacteria including Bacteroides spp. and Clostridium difficile. We compared results to the activity of cathelicidin LL-37, metronidazole and nanosystems developed by attachment of CSA-13 and CSA-131 to magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs). The antibacterial effect was tested using killing assay and modified CLSI broth microdilution assay. Ceragenins CSA-13 and CSA-131 displayed stronger bactericidal activity than LL-37 or metronidazole against all of the tested bacterial strains. Additionally CSA-131 revealed an enhanced ability to prevent the formation of Bacteroides fragilis and Propionibacterium acnes biofilms. These data confirmed that ceragenins display antimicrobial activity against a broad range of microorganisms including anaerobic bacteria and deserve further investigations as compounds serving to develop new treatment against anaerobic and mixed infections.

Long-term Evaluation of a Modified Double Staple Technique for Low Anterior Resection.

PubMed

Illuminati, G; Carboni, F; Ceccanei, G; Pacilè, M A; Pizzardi, G; Palumbo, P; Vietri, F

2014-01-01

When performing low anterior resection for rectal cancer with the double staple technique, -closing the rectum with a linear stapler in the abdomen can be challenging, especially when dealing with a narrow pelvis. For such instances we proposed to modify this technique by pulling the rectal stump through the anus, doing an extra-anal resection of the tumor and linear suture of the rectal stump, before performing a standard, stapled colorectal anastomosis. The purpose of this study was to assess the adequacy of this modification of the double staple technique. Retrospective review of 108 patients undergoing a stapled, low colorectal or coloanal anastomosis, after -eversion, extra-anal resection of the tumor and linear closure of the rectal stump for colorectal cancer, from January 1990 to December 2012. Operative mortality was 0.9%. Fourteen patients (13%) presented early, surgery-related complications -consisting of 7 anastomotic leaks, 5 wound infections, 1 ureteral lesion, and 1 peristomal abscess. Late complications related to surgery included 5 incisional hernias (4.6%), 4 anastomotic strictures (3.7%), 4 neurogenic bladders (3.7%) and 2 fecal incontinences (1.8%). The incidence of local disease recurrence was 10%. Surgical and oncological results validate the proposed modification of the double staple technique, when facing difficulties in suturing the rectum from the abdomen. Copyright© Acta Chirurgica Belgica.

Features about pion production in 2.1A and 3.7AGeV 4He-nucleus interactions up to and out of kinematical limit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abdelsalam, A.; Badawy, B. M.; Amer, H. A.; Osman, W.; El-Ashmawy, M. M.; Abdallah, N.

The shower particle multiplicity characteristics are studied in 2.1A and 3.7A GeV 4He interactions with emulsion nuclei. The dependencies on emission direction, energy, target size, and centrality are examined. The data are compared with the simulation of the modified FRITIOF model. The forward emitted pion multiplicity distributions exhibit KNO scaling. The decay or peaking shaped curves characterize the pion multiplicity distributions. The decay shape is suggested to be due to a single source contribution and the peaking one results from a multisource superposition. The forward emitted pion is created from fireball or hadronic matter. The target nucleus is the origin of the backward one, regarding the nuclear limiting fragmentation hypothesis.

Gender differences in the risk and protective factors associated with PTSD: a prospective study of National Guard troops deployed to Iraq.

PubMed

Kline, Anna; Ciccone, Donald S; Weiner, Marc; Interian, Alejandro; St Hill, Lauren; Falca-Dodson, Maria; Black, Christopher M; Losonczy, Miklos

2013-01-01

This study examines gender differences in post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) and PTSS risk/protective factors among soldiers deployed to Iraq. We pay special attention to two potentially modifiable military factors, military preparedness and unit cohesion, which may buffer the deleterious psychological effects of combat. Longitudinal data were collected on 922 New Jersey National Guard soldiers (91 women) deployed to Iraq in 2008. Anonymous surveys administered at pre- and post-deployment included the PTSD Checklist (PCL), the Unit Support Scale, and a preparedness scale adapted from the Iowa Gulf War Study. Bivariate analyses and hierarchical multiple regression were used to identify predictors of PTSS and their explanatory effects on the relationship between gender and PTSS. Women had a higher prevalence of probable post-deployment PTSD than men (18.7% vs. 8.7%; OR = 2.45; CI [1.37, 4.37]) and significantly higher post-deployment PTSS (33.73 vs. 27.37; p = .001). While there were no gender differences in combat exposure, women scored higher on pre-deployment PTSS (26.9 vs. 23.1; p ≤ .001) and lower on military preparedness (1.65 vs. 2.41; p ≤ .001) and unit cohesion (32.5 vs. 38.1; p ≤ .001). In a multivariate model, controlling for all PTSS risk/resilience factors reduced the gender difference as measured by the unstandardized Beta (B) by 45%, with 18% uniquely attributable to low cohesion and low preparedness. In the fully controlled model, gender remained a significant predictor of PTSS but the effect size was small (d = .26). Modifiable military institutional factors may account for much of the increased vulnerability of women soldiers to PTSD.

Efficient stabilization of Saccharomyces cerevisiae external invertase by immobilisation on modified beidellite nanoclays.

PubMed

Andjelković, Uroš; Milutinović-Nikolić, Aleksandra; Jović-Jovičić, Nataša; Banković, Predrag; Bajt, Teja; Mojović, Zorica; Vujčić, Zoran; Jovanović, Dušan

2015-02-01

The external invertase isoform 1 (EINV1) was immobilised on eight differently modified beidellite nanoclays. Modifications were composed of organo-modification with different amounts of surfactant - hexadecyl trimethylammonium cation (HDTMA), pillaring with Al/Fe containing polyhydroxy cations and acid modification of Na-enriched and pillared clays. The modified nanoclays were characterised by XRD, N2-physisorption, SEM and FT-IR spectroscopy. The amount of bound enzyme activity was significantly influenced by the modification of beidellite ranging from 50 to remarkable 2200U/g. Biochemical characterization was performed for five modified nanoclays showing the highest enzyme activity after invertase immobilisation. The investigation demonstrated that after immobilisation the structure and the catalytic properties of invertase were preserved, while Km values were slightly increased from 26 to 37mM. immobilisation significantly improved thermal and storage stability of EINV1. Results indicate that beidellite nanoclays obtained by low cost modifications can be applied as a suitable support for the immobilisation of invertase. The immobilizate can be efficiently engaged in sucrose hydrolysis in batch reactor. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A Strontium-Modified Titanium Surface Produced by a New Method and Its Biocompatibility In Vitro

PubMed Central

Liu, Chundong; Zhang, Yanli; Wang, Lichao; Zhang, Xinhua; Chen, Qiuyue; Wu, Buling

2015-01-01

Objective To present a new and effective method of producing titanium surfaces modified with strontium and to investigate the surface characteristics and in vitro biocompatibility of titanium (Ti) surfaces modified with strontium (Sr) for bone implant applications. Materials and Methods Sr-modified Ti surfaces were produced by sequential treatments with NaOH, strontium acetate, heat and water. The surface characteristics and the concentration of the Sr ions released from the samples were examined. Cell adhesion, morphology and growth were investigated using osteoblasts isolated from the calvaria of neonatal Sprague-Dawley rats. Expression of osteogenesis-related genes and proteins was examined to assess the effect of the Sr-modified Ti surfaces on osteoblasts. Results The modified titanium surface had a mesh structure with significantly greater porosity, and approximately5.37±0.35at.% of Sr was incorporated into the surface. The hydrophilicity was enhanced by the incorporation of Sr ions and water treatment. The average amounts of Sr released from the Sr-modified plates subjected to water treatment were slight higher than the plates without water treatment. Sr promoted cellular adhesion, spreading and growth compared with untreated Ti surfaces. The Sr-modified Ti plates also promoted expression of osteogenesis-related genes,and expression of OPN and COL-І by osteoblasts. Ti plates heat treated at 700°C showed increased bioactivity in comparison with those treated at 600°C. Water treatment upregulated the expression of osteogenesis-related genes. Conclusions These results show that Sr-modification of Ti surfaces may improve bioactivity in vitro. Water treatment has enhanced the response of osteoblasts. The Sr-modified Ti heat-treated at 700°C exhibited better bioactivity compared with that heated at 600°C. PMID:26529234

A Strontium-Modified Titanium Surface Produced by a New Method and Its Biocompatibility In Vitro.

PubMed

Liu, Chundong; Zhang, Yanli; Wang, Lichao; Zhang, Xinhua; Chen, Qiuyue; Wu, Buling

2015-01-01

To present a new and effective method of producing titanium surfaces modified with strontium and to investigate the surface characteristics and in vitro biocompatibility of titanium (Ti) surfaces modified with strontium (Sr) for bone implant applications. Sr-modified Ti surfaces were produced by sequential treatments with NaOH, strontium acetate, heat and water. The surface characteristics and the concentration of the Sr ions released from the samples were examined. Cell adhesion, morphology and growth were investigated using osteoblasts isolated from the calvaria of neonatal Sprague-Dawley rats. Expression of osteogenesis-related genes and proteins was examined to assess the effect of the Sr-modified Ti surfaces on osteoblasts. The modified titanium surface had a mesh structure with significantly greater porosity, and approximately5.37±0.35at.% of Sr was incorporated into the surface. The hydrophilicity was enhanced by the incorporation of Sr ions and water treatment. The average amounts of Sr released from the Sr-modified plates subjected to water treatment were slight higher than the plates without water treatment. Sr promoted cellular adhesion, spreading and growth compared with untreated Ti surfaces. The Sr-modified Ti plates also promoted expression of osteogenesis-related genes,and expression of OPN and COL-І by osteoblasts. Ti plates heat treated at 700°C showed increased bioactivity in comparison with those treated at 600°C. Water treatment upregulated the expression of osteogenesis-related genes. These results show that Sr-modification of Ti surfaces may improve bioactivity in vitro. Water treatment has enhanced the response of osteoblasts. The Sr-modified Ti heat-treated at 700°C exhibited better bioactivity compared with that heated at 600°C.

CaMV-35S promoter sequence-specific DNA methylation in lettuce.

PubMed

Okumura, Azusa; Shimada, Asahi; Yamasaki, Satoshi; Horino, Takuya; Iwata, Yuji; Koizumi, Nozomu; Nishihara, Masahiro; Mishiba, Kei-ichiro

2016-01-01

We found 35S promoter sequence-specific DNA methylation in lettuce. Additionally, transgenic lettuce plants having a modified 35S promoter lost methylation, suggesting the modified sequence is subjected to the methylation machinery. We previously reported that cauliflower mosaic virus 35S promoter-specific DNA methylation in transgenic gentian (Gentiana triflora × G. scabra) plants occurs irrespective of the copy number and the genomic location of T-DNA, and causes strong gene silencing. To confirm whether 35S-specific methylation can occur in other plant species, transgenic lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) plants with a single copy of the 35S promoter-driven sGFP gene were produced and analyzed. Among 10 lines of transgenic plants, 3, 4, and 3 lines showed strong, weak, and no expression of sGFP mRNA, respectively. Bisulfite genomic sequencing of the 35S promoter region showed hypermethylation at CpG and CpWpG (where W is A or T) sites in 9 of 10 lines. Gentian-type de novo methylation pattern, consisting of methylated cytosines at CpHpH (where H is A, C, or T) sites, was also observed in the transgenic lettuce lines, suggesting that lettuce and gentian share similar methylation machinery. Four of five transgenic lettuce lines having a single copy of a modified 35S promoter, which was modified in the proposed core target of de novo methylation in gentian, exhibited 35S hypomethylation, indicating that the modified sequence may be the target of the 35S-specific methylation machinery.

Functional disability and its predictors in systemic sclerosis: a study from the DeSScipher project within the EUSTAR group.

PubMed

Jaeger, Veronika K; Distler, Oliver; Maurer, Britta; Czirják, Laszlo; Lóránd, Veronika; Valentini, Gabriele; Vettori, Serena; Del Galdo, Francesco; Abignano, Giuseppina; Denton, Christopher; Nihtyanova, Svetlana; Allanore, Yannick; Avouac, Jerome; Riemekasten, Gabriele; Siegert, Elise; Huscher, Dörte; Matucci-Cerinic, Marco; Guiducci, Serena; Frerix, Marc; Tarner, Ingo H; Garay Toth, Beata; Fankhauser, Beat; Umbricht, Jörg; Zakharova, Anastasia; Mihai, Carina; Cozzi, Franco; Yavuz, Sule; Hunzelmann, Nicolas; Rednic, Simona; Vacca, Alessandra; Schmeiser, Tim; Riccieri, Valeria; García de la Peña Lefebvre, Paloma; Gabrielli, Armando; Krummel-Lorenz, Brigitte; Martinovic, Duska; Ancuta, Codrina; Smith, Vanessa; Müller-Ladner, Ulf; Walker, Ulrich A

2018-03-01

The multisystem manifestations of SSc can greatly impact patients' quality of life. The aim of this study was to identify factors associated with disability in SSc. SSc patients from the prospective DeSScipher cohort who had completed the scleroderma health assessment questionnaire (SHAQ), a disability score that combines the health assessment questionnaire and five visual analogue scales, were included in this analysis. The effect of factors possibly associated with disability was analysed with multiple linear regressions. The mean SHAQ and HAQ scores of the 944 patients included were 0.87 (s.d. = 0.66) and 0.92 (s.d. = 0.78); 59% of the patients were in the mild to moderate difficulty SHAQ category (0 ⩽ SHAQ < 1), 34% in the moderate to severe disability category (1 ⩽ SHAQ < 2) and 7% in the severe to very severe disability category (2 ⩽ SHAQ ⩽ 3). The means of the visual analogue scales scores were in order of magnitude: overall disease severity (37 mm), RP (31 mm), pulmonary symptoms (24 mm), gastrointestinal symptoms (20 mm) and digital ulcers (19 mm). In multiple regression, the main factors associated with high SHAQ scores were the presence of dyspnoea [modified New York Heart Association (NYHA) class IV (regression coefficient B = 0.62), modified NYHA class III (B = 0.53) and modified NYHA class II (B = 0.21; all vs modified NYHA class I)], FM (B = 0.37), muscle weakness (B = 0.27), digital ulcers (B = 0.20) and gastrointestinal symptoms (oesophageal symptoms, B = 0.16; stomach symptoms, B = 0.15; intestinal symptoms, B = 0.15). SSc patients perceive dyspnoea, pain, digital ulcers, muscle weakness and gastrointestinal symptoms as the main factors driving their level of disability, unlike physicians who emphasize objective measures of disability. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the British Society for Rheumatology. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com

37 CFR 41.5 - Counsel.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 37 Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Counsel. 41.5 Section 41.5 Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights UNITED STATES PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE... registered practitioner to appear as counsel in a specific proceeding. (b) Disqualification. (1) The Board...

42 CFR 37.95 - Specifications for performing spirometry examinations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... examinations must include the following: (1) Pre-test checklist. A short Spirometry Pre-Test Checklist (Form... spirometry examinations electronically with content as specified in § 37.96(b), pre-test screening checklists... spirometry examinations, pre-test checklists, and standardized respiratory assessment results in electronic...

Measurement of 37Ar to support technology for On-site Inspection under the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty

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

Aalseth, Craig E.; Day, Anthony R.; Haas, Derek A.

On-Site Inspection (OSI) is a key component of the verification regime for the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT). Measurements of radionuclide isotopes created by an underground nuclear explosion are a valuable signature of a Treaty violation. Argon-37 is produced from neutron interaction with calcium in soil, 40Ca(n,α)37Ar. For OSI, the 35-day half-life of 37Ar provides both high specific activity and sufficient time for completion of an inspection before decay limits sensitivity. This paper presents a low-background internal-source gas proportional counter with an 37Ar measurement sensitivity level equivalent to 45.1 mBq/SCM in whole air.

99mTc MDP SPECT-CT-Based Modified Mirels Classification for Evaluation of Risk of Fracture in Skeletal Metastasis: A Pilot Study.

PubMed

Riaz, Saima; Bashir, Humayun; Niazi, Imran Khalid; Butt, Sumera; Qamar, Faisal

2018-06-01

Mirels' scoring system quantifies the risk of sustaining a pathologic fracture in osseous metastases of weight bearing long bones. Conventional Mirels' scoring is based on radiographs. Our pilot study proposes Tc MDP bone SPECT-CT based modified Mirels' scoring system and its comparison with conventional Mirels' scoring. Cortical lysis was noted in 8(24%) by SPECT-CT versus 2 (6.3%) on X-rays. Additional SPECT-CT parameters were; circumferential involvement [1/4 (31%), 1/2 (3%), 3/4 (37.5%), 4/4 (28%)] and extra-osseous soft tissue [3%]. Our pilot study suggests the potential role of SPECT-CT in predicting risk of fracture in osseous metastases.

Extractant compositions for co-extracting cesium and strontium, a method of separating cesium and strontium from an aqueous feed, and calixarene compounds

DOEpatents

Peterman, Dean R [Idaho Falls, ID; Meikrantz, David H [Idaho Falls, ID; Law, Jack D [Pocatello, ID; Riddle, Catherine L [Idaho Falls, ID; Todd, Terry A [Firth, ID; Greenhalgh, Mitchell R [Iona, ID; Tillotson, Richard D [Moore, ID; Bartsch, Richard A [Lubbock, TX; Moyer, Bruce A [Oak Ridge, TN; Delmau, Laetitia H [Oak Ridge, TN; Bonnesen, Peter V [Knoxville, TN

2012-04-17

A mixed extractant solvent that includes at least one dialkyloxycalix[4]arenebenzocrown-6 compound, 4',4',(5')-di-(t-butyldicyclohexano)-18-crown-6, at least one modifier, and, optionally, a diluent. The dialkyloxycalix[4]arenebenzocrown-6 compound is 1,3-alternate-25,27-di(octyloxy)calix[4]arenebenzocrown-6, 1,3-alternate-25,27-di(decyloxy)calix[4]arenebenzocrown-6, 1,3-alternate-25,27-di(dodecyloxy)calix[4]arenebenzocrown-6, 1,3-alternate-25,27-di(2-ethylhexyl-1-oxy)calix[4]arenebenzocrown-6, 1,3-alternate-25,27-di(3,7-dimethyloctyl-1-oxy)calix[4]arenebenzocrown-6, 1,3-alternate-25,27-di(4-butyloctyl-1-oxy)calix[4]arenebenzocrown-6, or combinations thereof. The modifier is a primary alcohol. A method of separating cesium and strontium from an aqueous feed is also disclosed, as are dialkyloxycalix[4]arenebenzocrown-6 compounds and an alcohol modifier.

Preconcentration and Spectrophotometric Determination of a Naphthalene Analog of Medetomidine Using Modified Maghemite Nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maddah, B.; Hosseini, F.; Ahmadi, M.; Rajabi, A. Asghar; Beik-Mohammadlood, Z.

2016-05-01

A novel and sensitive extraction procedure using sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) modified maghemite nanoparticles (MNPs) as an efficient solid phase has been developed for removal, preconcentration, and spectrophotometric determination of trace amounts of a naphthalene analog of dexmedetomidine (4-(1-(na phthalene-1-yl)ethyl)-1Himidazole, NMED). The MNPs were obtained by a coprecipitation method, and their surfaces were furthermore modified by SDS. The size and morphological properties of the synthesized MNPs were determined by X-ray diffraction analysis, FT-IR, vibrating sample magnetometry, and scanning electron microscopy. NMED was adsorbed at pH 3.0. The adsorbed drug was then desorbed and determined by spectrophotometry at 280 nm. The calibration graph was linear in the range 1 × 10-6-1 × 10-4 mol/L of NMED with a correlation coefficient of 0.989. The detection limit of the method for NMED determination was 3.7 × 10-7 mol/L. The method was successfully applied to the determination of NMED in human urine samples.

Synthesis of walnut shell modified with titanium dioxide and zinc oxide nanoparticles for efficient removal of humic acid from aqueous solutions.

PubMed

Naghizadeh, Ali; Shahabi, Habibeh; Ghasemi, Fatemeh; Zarei, Ahmad

2016-12-01

The main aim of this research was to study the efficiency of modified walnut shell with titanium dioxide (TiO 2 ) and zinc oxide (ZnO) in the adsorption of humic acid from aqueous solutions. This experimental study was carried out in a batch condition to determine the effects of factors such as contact time, pH, humic acid concentration, dose of adsorbents (raw walnut shell, modified walnut shell with TiO 2 and ZnO) on the removal efficiency of humic acid. pH zpc of raw walnut shell, walnut shell modified with TiO 2 and walnut shell modified with ZnO were 7.6, 7.5, and 8, respectively. The maximum adsorption capacity of humic acid at concentration of 30 mg/L, contact time of 30 min at pH = 3 in an adsorbent dose of 0.02 g of walnut shell and ZnO and TiO 2 modified walnut shell were found to be 35.2, 37.9, and 40.2 mg/g, respectively. The results showed that the studied adsorbents tended to fit with the Langmuir model. Walnut shell, due to its availability, cost-effectiveness, and also its high adsorption efficiency, can be proposed as a promising natural adsorbent in the removal of humic acid from aqueous solutions.

Targeted Changes of the Cell Wall Proteome Influence Candida albicans Ability to Form Single- and Multi-strain Biofilms

PubMed Central

Walker, Louise A.; Martin-Yken, Hélène; Dague, Etienne; Legrand, Mélanie; Lee, Keunsook; Chauvel, Murielle; Firon, Arnaud; Rossignol, Tristan; Richard, Mathias L.; Munro, Carol A.; Bachellier-Bassi, Sophie; d'Enfert, Christophe

2014-01-01

Biofilm formation is an important virulence trait of the pathogenic yeast Candida albicans. We have combined gene overexpression, strain barcoding and microarray profiling to screen a library of 531 C. albicans conditional overexpression strains (∼10% of the genome) for genes affecting biofilm development in mixed-population experiments. The overexpression of 16 genes increased strain occupancy within a multi-strain biofilm, whereas overexpression of 4 genes decreased it. The set of 16 genes was significantly enriched for those encoding predicted glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-modified proteins, namely Ihd1/Pga36, Phr2, Pga15, Pga19, Pga22, Pga32, Pga37, Pga42 and Pga59; eight of which have been classified as pathogen-specific. Validation experiments using either individually- or competitively-grown overexpression strains revealed that the contribution of these genes to biofilm formation was variable and stage-specific. Deeper functional analysis of PGA59 and PGA22 at a single-cell resolution using atomic force microscopy showed that overexpression of either gene increased C. albicans ability to adhere to an abiotic substrate. However, unlike PGA59, PGA22 overexpression led to cell cluster formation that resulted in increased sensitivity to shear forces and decreased ability to form a single-strain biofilm. Within the multi-strain environment provided by the PGA22-non overexpressing cells, PGA22-overexpressing cells were protected from shear forces and fitter for biofilm development. Ultrastructural analysis, genome-wide transcript profiling and phenotypic analyses in a heterologous context suggested that PGA22 affects cell adherence through alteration of cell wall structure and/or function. Taken together, our findings reveal that several novel predicted GPI-modified proteins contribute to the cooperative behaviour between biofilm cells and are important participants during C. albicans biofilm formation. Moreover, they illustrate the power of using signature tagging in conjunction with gene overexpression for the identification of novel genes involved in processes pertaining to C. albicans virulence. PMID:25502890

Application of pH-sensitive fusogenic polymer-modified liposomes for development of mucosal vaccines.

PubMed

Watarai, Shinobu; Iwase, Tana; Tajima, Tomoko; Yuba, Eiji; Kono, Kenji; Sekiya, Yukio

2014-03-15

To evaluate the usefulness of pH-sensitive fusogenic polymer (succinylated poly(glycidol) (SucPG) and 3-methylglutarylated poly(glycidol) (MGluPG))-modified liposomes as mucosal vaccine in the induction of a protective immune responses was evaluated. Mice were nasally immunized with OVA-containing SucPG-modified liposomes. After immunization, significant Ag-specific Abs were detected in the serum and intestine. When sera were analyzed for isotype distribution, antigen-specific IgG1 Ab responses were noted in mice immunized with OVA-containing polymer-unmodified liposomes, whereas immunization with OVA-containing SucPG-modified liposomes resulted in the induction of OVA-specific IgG1, IgG2a and IgG3 Ab responses. In spleen lymphocytes from mice immunized with OVA-containing SucPG-modified liposomes, both IFN-γ and IL-4 mRNA were detected. The same result was obtained also in the mouse immunized with OVA-containing MGluPG-modified liposomes. Furthermore, we examined the induction of immune responses in chickens following intraocular immunization with Salmonella Enteritidis Ag-containing MGluPG-modified liposomes, and the protective effect against the challenge with S. Enteritidis. Immunization with S. Enteritidis Ag-containing MGluPG-modified liposomes induced significant Ab responses against S. Enteritidis in the serum and intestine. Less fecal excretion of bacteria was observed in chickens immunized with S. Enteritidis Ag-containing MGluPG-modified liposomes after challenge. The numbers of bacteria in the caecum were also lower in immunized chickens than in unimmunized controls. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Enhanced hydrogen production from glucose using ldh- and frd-inactivated Escherichia coli strains.

PubMed

Yoshida, Akihito; Nishimura, Taku; Kawaguchi, Hideo; Inui, Masayuki; Yukawa, Hideaki

2006-11-01

We improved the hydrogen yield from glucose using a genetically modified Escherichia coli. E. coli strain SR15 (DeltaldhA, DeltafrdBC), in which glucose metabolism was directed to pyruvate formate lyase (PFL), was constructed. The hydrogen yield of wild-type strain of 1.08 mol/mol glucose, was enhanced to 1.82 mol/mol glucose in strain SR15. This figure is greater than 90 % of the theoretical hydrogen yield of facultative anaerobes (2.0 mol/mol glucose). Moreover, the specific hydrogen production rate of strain SR15 (13.4 mmol h(-1) g(-1) dry cell) was 1.4-fold higher than that of wild-type strain. In addition, the volumetric hydrogen production rate increased using the process where cells behaved as an effective catalyst. At 94.3 g dry cell/l, a productivity of 793 mmol h(-1) l(-1) (20.2 l h(-1) l(-1) at 37 degrees C) was achieved using SR15. The reported productivity substantially surpasses that of conventional biological hydrogen production processes and can be a trigger for practical applications.

Clinical and radiologic outcomes after a modified bone plug technique with anatomical meniscal root reinsertion for meniscal allograft transplantation and a minimum 18-month follow-up.

PubMed

Ren, Shiyou; Zhang, Xintao; You, Tian; Jiang, Xiaocheng; Jin, Dadi; Zhang, Wentao

2018-04-24

To evaluate the clinical and radiologic outcomes of meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT) using a modified bone plug technique. We conducted a retrospective single-center study of 73 patients who underwent MAT between January 2007 and December 2013. The International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score, Lysholm score, Tegner score, visual analogue scale (VAS), and physical examinations were retrospectively reviewed to measure clinical outcomes after MAT, and questionnaires regarding activity and factors were analyzed. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to assess the cartilage status and meniscal extrusion. The mean follow-up was 37 months for 61 patients (65 knees), and 12 patients were lost to follow-up. The mean meniscal extrusion was 3.39 ± 0.90 mm, the relative percentage of extrusion (RPE) was 34.82% ± 12.71%, and arthrosis progression was observed in 8 of 61 cases (13.1%). The mean results for VAS, IKDC, and Lysholm scores were significantly improved after MAT (P < 0.05), but there were no significant differences in the range of motion or Tegner score (P > 0.05). Thirty-eight (62.3%) patients were able to return to their previous level of activity, and 23 (37.7%) patients reached a mean 76.7% of the previous level of activity. Of the 23 patients reporting a decrease in activity, 10 reported a fear of reinjury as the primary factor limiting activity. The patient satisfaction rate in the study was 78.7%. Our modified bone plug method with anatomical meniscal root reinsertion was an effective surgical method, and the majority of active patients with meniscal disorders returned to preinjury levels of activity.

Screening for Autism Spectrum Disorders in Children With Down Syndrome

PubMed Central

DiGuiseppi, Carolyn; Hepburn, Susan; Davis, Jonathan M.; Fidler, Deborah J.; Hartway, Sara; Lee, Nancy Raitano; Miller, Lisa; Ruttenber, Margaret; Robinson, Cordelia

2015-01-01

Objective We assessed the prevalence of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and screening test characteristics in children with Down syndrome. Method Eligible children born in a defined geographic area between January 1, 1996, and December 31, 2003, were recruited through a population-based birth defects registry and community outreach, then screened with the modified checklist for autism in toddlers or social communication questionnaire, as appropriate. Screen-positive children and a random sample of screen-negative children underwent developmental evaluation. Results We screened 123 children (27.8% of the birth cohort). Mean age was 73.4 months (range, 31–142). Compared to screen-negative children, screen-positive children had similar sociodemo-graphic characteristics but a lower mean developmental quotient (mean difference: 11.0; 95% confidence interval: 4.8–17.3). Weighted prevalences of autistic disorder and total ASD were 6.4% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.6%–11.6%) and 18.2% (95% CI: 9.7%–26.8%), respectively. The estimated minimum ASD prevalence, accounting for unscreened children, is 5.1% (95% CI: 3.3%–7.4%). ASD prevalence increased with greater cognitive impairment. Screening test sensitivity was 87.5% (95% CI: 66.6%–97.7%); specificity was 49.9% (95% CI: 37.0%–61.4%). Conclusion The prevalence of ASD among children with Down syndrome aged 2 to 11 years is substantially higher than in the general population. The modified checklist for autism in toddlers and social communication questionnaire were highly sensitive in children with Down syndrome but could result in many false positive tests if universal screening were implemented using current algorithms. Research needs include development of specific ASD screening algorithms and improved diagnostic discrimination in children with Down syndrome. Timely identification of these co-occurring diagnoses is essential so appropriate interventions can be provided. PMID:20375732

The total cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol as a predictor of poor outcomes in a Chinese population with acute ischaemic stroke.

PubMed

Chen, Lifang; Xu, Jianing; Sun, Hao; Wu, Hao; Zhang, Jinsong

2017-11-01

High admission cholesterol has been associated with better outcome after acute ischaemic stroke (AIS), but a paradox not completely illustrated. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of the total cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (TC/HDL-C) on short-term survival after AIS. Consecutive patients admitted in 2013 and 2015 were enrolled in the present study. The logistic regression analysis was conducted to evaluate predictors of 3-month outcomes. The primary endpoint was death. Secondary endpoint was good (modified Rankin Scale score 0-2 or equal to prestrike modified Rankin Scale score) at 3 months. Of 871 patients enrolled in the final analysis, 94 (10.8%) individuals died during 3 months of observation. The serum TC and TC/HDL-C levels at admission were significantly associated with stroke outcomes at 3 months, and the HDL-C level was only correlated with the good outcomes at 3 months. Mortality risk was markedly decreased for patients with high TC/HDL-C ratio (odds ratio: 0.23, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.10-0.50 for Q4:Q1; P-trend <.001) after adjustment. The effect of TC/HDL-C ratio on the probability of good outcomes was still obvious (odds ratio: 2.18, 95% CI: 1.40-3.39 for Q4:Q1; P-trend=.029). According to the receiver operating characteristic analyses, the best discriminating factor was a TG/HDL-C ≥3.37 (area under the ROC curve [AUC]=0.643, sensitivity 61.3%, specificity 61.7%) as well as the TC/HDL-C ≥4.09 for good outcomes (AUC: 0.587, sensitivity 63.9%, specificity 79.7%). High TC/HDL-C ratio may be associated with increased short-term survival and better outcomes after AIS. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Genetic element from human surfactant protein SP-C gene confers bronchiolar-alveolar cell specificity in transgenic mice.

PubMed

Glasser, S W; Korfhagen, T R; Wert, S E; Bruno, M D; McWilliams, K M; Vorbroker, D K; Whitsett, J A

1991-10-01

Transgenic mice bearing chimeric genes consisting of 5'-sequences derived from the human surfactant protein C (SP-C) gene and the bacterial chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT) gene were generated. Analysis of CAT activity was utilized to demonstrate tissue-specific and developmental expression of chimeric genes containing 3.7 kb of sequences from the human SP-C gene. Lung-specific expression of the 3.7 SP-C-CAT transgene was observed in eight distinct transgenic mouse lines. Expression of the 3.7 SP-C-CAT transgene was first detected in fetal lung on day 11 of gestation and increased dramatically with advancing gestational age, reaching adult levels of activity before birth. In situ hybridization demonstrated that expression of 3.7 SP-C-CAT mRNA was confined to the distal respiratory epithelium. Antisense CAT hybridization was detected in bronchiolar and type II epithelial cells in the adult lung of the 3.7 SP-C-CAT transgenic mice. In situ hybridization of four distinct 3.7 SP-C-CAT transgenic mouse lines demonstrated bronchiolar-alveolar expression of the chimeric CAT gene, although the relative intensity of expression at each site varied within the lines studied. Glucocorticoids increased murine SP-C mRNA in fetal lung organ culture. Likewise, expression of 3.7 SP-C-CAT transgene increased during fetal lung organ or explant culture and was further enhanced by glucocorticoid in vitro. The 5'-regions of human SP-C conferred developmental, lung epithelial, and glucocorticoid-enhanced expression of bacterial CAT in transgenic mice. The increased expression of SP-C accompanying prenatal lung development and exposure to glucocorticoid is mediated, at least in part, at the transcriptional level, being influenced by cis-active elements contained within the 5'-flanking region of the human SP-C gene.

In vitro evolution of chemically-modified nucleic acid aptamers: Pros and cons, and comprehensive selection strategies.

PubMed

Lipi, Farhana; Chen, Suxiang; Chakravarthy, Madhuri; Rakesh, Shilpa; Veedu, Rakesh N

2016-12-01

Nucleic acid aptamers are single-stranded DNA or RNA oligonucleotide sequences that bind to a specific target molecule with high affinity and specificity through their ability to adopt 3-dimensional structure in solution. Aptamers have huge potential as targeted therapeutics, diagnostics, delivery agents and as biosensors. However, aptamers composed of natural nucleotide monomers are quickly degraded in vivo and show poor pharmacodynamic properties. To overcome this, chemically-modified nucleic acid aptamers are developed by incorporating modified nucleotides after or during the selection process by Systematic Evolution of Ligands by EXponential enrichment (SELEX). This review will discuss the development of chemically-modified aptamers and provide the pros and cons, and new insights on in vitro aptamer selection strategies by using chemically-modified nucleic acid libraries.

In vitro evolution of chemically-modified nucleic acid aptamers: Pros and cons, and comprehensive selection strategies

PubMed Central

Chen, Suxiang; Chakravarthy, Madhuri; Rakesh, Shilpa; Veedu, Rakesh N.

2016-01-01

ABSTRACT Nucleic acid aptamers are single-stranded DNA or RNA oligonucleotide sequences that bind to a specific target molecule with high affinity and specificity through their ability to adopt 3-dimensional structure in solution. Aptamers have huge potential as targeted therapeutics, diagnostics, delivery agents and as biosensors. However, aptamers composed of natural nucleotide monomers are quickly degraded in vivo and show poor pharmacodynamic properties. To overcome this, chemically-modified nucleic acid aptamers are developed by incorporating modified nucleotides after or during the selection process by Systematic Evolution of Ligands by EXponential enrichment (SELEX). This review will discuss the development of chemically-modified aptamers and provide the pros and cons, and new insights on in vitro aptamer selection strategies by using chemically-modified nucleic acid libraries. PMID:27715478

Assessment of five different guideline indication criteria for spirometry, including modified GOLD criteria, in order to detect COPD: data from 5,315 subjects in the PLATINO study.

PubMed

Luize, Ana P; Menezes, Ana Maria B; Perez-Padilla, Rogelio; Muiño, Adriana; López, Maria Victorina; Valdivia, Gonzalo; Lisboa, Carmem; Montes de Oca, Maria; Tálamo, Carlos; Celli, Bartolomé; Nascimento, Oliver A; Gazzotti, Mariana R; Jardim, José R

2014-10-30

Spirometry is the gold standard for diagnosing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Although there are a number of different guideline criteria for deciding who should be selected for spirometric screening, to date it is not known which criteria are the best based on sensitivity and specificity. Firstly, to evaluate the proportion of subjects in the PLATINO Study that would be recommended for spirometry testing according to Global initiative for Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD)-modified, American College of Chest Physicians (ACCP), National Lung Health Education Program (NLHEP), GOLD and American Thoracic Society/European Respiratory Society (ATS/ERS) criteria. Secondly, we aimed to compare the sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive and negative predictive values, of these five different criteria. Data from the PLATINO study included information on respiratory symptoms, smoking and previous spirometry testing. The GOLD-modified spirometry indication criteria are based on three positive answers out of five questions: the presence of cough, phlegm in the morning, dyspnoea, age over 40 years and smoking status. Data from 5,315 subjects were reviewed. Fewer people had an indication for spirometry (41.3%) according to the GOLD-modified criteria, and more people had an indication for spirometry (80.4%) by the GOLD and ATS/ERS criteria. A low percentage had previously had spirometry performed: GOLD-modified (14.5%); ACCP (13.2%); NLHEP (12.6%); and GOLD and ATS/ERS (12.3%). The GOLD-modified criteria showed the least sensitivity (54.9) and the highest specificity (61.0) for detecting COPD, whereas GOLD and ATS/ERS criteria showed the highest sensitivity (87.9) and the least specificity (20.8). There is a considerable difference in the indication for spirometry according to the five different guideline criteria. The GOLD-modified criteria recruit less people with the greatest sum of sensitivity and specificity.

Assessment of five different guideline indication criteria for spirometry, including modified GOLD criteria, in order to detect COPD: data from 5,315 subjects in the PLATINO study

PubMed Central

Luize, Ana P; Menezes, Ana Maria B; Perez-Padilla, Rogelio; Muiño, Adriana; López, Maria Victorina; Valdivia, Gonzalo; Lisboa, Carmem; Montes de Oca, Maria; Tálamo, Carlos; Celli, Bartolomé; Nascimento, Oliver A; Gazzotti, Mariana R; Jardim, José R

2014-01-01

Background: Spirometry is the gold standard for diagnosing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Although there are a number of different guideline criteria for deciding who should be selected for spirometric screening, to date it is not known which criteria are the best based on sensitivity and specificity. Aims: Firstly, to evaluate the proportion of subjects in the PLATINO Study that would be recommended for spirometry testing according to Global initiative for Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD)-modified, American College of Chest Physicians (ACCP), National Lung Health Education Program (NLHEP), GOLD and American Thoracic Society/European Respiratory Society (ATS/ERS) criteria. Secondly, we aimed to compare the sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive and negative predictive values, of these five different criteria. Methods: Data from the PLATINO study included information on respiratory symptoms, smoking and previous spirometry testing. The GOLD-modified spirometry indication criteria are based on three positive answers out of five questions: the presence of cough, phlegm in the morning, dyspnoea, age over 40 years and smoking status. Results: Data from 5,315 subjects were reviewed. Fewer people had an indication for spirometry (41.3%) according to the GOLD-modified criteria, and more people had an indication for spirometry (80.4%) by the GOLD and ATS/ERS criteria. A low percentage had previously had spirometry performed: GOLD-modified (14.5%); ACCP (13.2%); NLHEP (12.6%); and GOLD and ATS/ERS (12.3%). The GOLD-modified criteria showed the least sensitivity (54.9) and the highest specificity (61.0) for detecting COPD, whereas GOLD and ATS/ERS criteria showed the highest sensitivity (87.9) and the least specificity (20.8). Conclusion: There is a considerable difference in the indication for spirometry according to the five different guideline criteria. The GOLD-modified criteria recruit less people with the greatest sum of sensitivity and specificity. PMID:25358021

Reduction of Non-Specific Protein Adsorption Using Poly(ethylene) Glycol (PEG) Modified Polyacrylate Hydrogels In Immunoassays for Staphylococcal Enterotoxin B Detection

PubMed Central

Charles, Paul T.; Stubbs, Veronte R.; Soto, Carissa M.; Martin, Brett D.; White, Brandy J.; Taitt, Chris R.

2009-01-01

Three PEG molecules (PEG-methacrylate, -diacrylate and -dimethacrylate) were incorporated into galactose-based polyacrylate hydrogels and their relative abilities to reduce non-specific protein adsorption in immunoassays were determined. Highly crosslinked hydrogels containing amine-terminated functionalities were formed and used to covalently attach antibodies specific for staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB). Patterned arrays of immobilized antibodies in the PEG-modified hydrogels were created with a PDMS template containing micro-channels for use in sandwich immunoassays to detect SEB. Different concentrations of the toxin were applied to the hydrogel arrays, followed with a Cy3-labeled tracer antibody specific for the two toxins. Fluorescence laser scanning confocal microscopy of the tracer molecules provided both qualitative and quantitative measurements on the detection sensitivity and the reduction in non-specific binding as a result of PEG incorporation. Results showed the PEG-modified hydrogel significantly reduced non-specific protein binding with a detection limit for SEB of 1 ng/mL. Fluorescence signals showed a 10-fold decrease in the non-specific binding and a 6-fold increase in specific binding of SEB. PMID:22389622

Application of Gene Expression Trajectories Initiated from ErbB Receptor Activation Highlights the Dynamics of Divergent Promoter Usage.

PubMed

Carbajo, Daniel; Magi, Shigeyuki; Itoh, Masayoshi; Kawaji, Hideya; Lassmann, Timo; Arner, Erik; Forrest, Alistair R R; Carninci, Piero; Hayashizaki, Yoshihide; Daub, Carsten O; Okada-Hatakeyama, Mariko; Mar, Jessica C

2015-01-01

Understanding how cells use complex transcriptional programs to alter their fate in response to specific stimuli is an important question in biology. For the MCF-7 human breast cancer cell line, we applied gene expression trajectory models to identify the genes involved in driving cell fate transitions. We modified trajectory models to account for the scenario where cells were exposed to different stimuli, in this case epidermal growth factor and heregulin, to arrive at different cell fates, i.e. proliferation and differentiation respectively. Using genome-wide CAGE time series data collected from the FANTOM5 consortium, we identified the sets of promoters that were involved in the transition of MCF-7 cells to their specific fates versus those with expression changes that were generic to both stimuli. Of the 1,552 promoters identified, 1,091 had stimulus-specific expression while 461 promoters had generic expression profiles over the time course surveyed. Many of these stimulus-specific promoters mapped to key regulators of the ERK (extracellular signal-regulated kinases) signaling pathway such as FHL2 (four and a half LIM domains 2). We observed that in general, generic promoters peaked in their expression early on in the time course, while stimulus-specific promoters tended to show activation of their expression at a later stage. The genes that mapped to stimulus-specific promoters were enriched for pathways that control focal adhesion, p53 signaling and MAPK signaling while generic promoters were enriched for cell death, transcription and the cell cycle. We identified 162 genes that were controlled by an alternative promoter during the time course where a subset of 37 genes had separate promoters that were classified as stimulus-specific and generic. The results of our study highlighted the degree of complexity involved in regulating a cell fate transition where multiple promoters mapping to the same gene can demonstrate quite divergent expression profiles.

9 CFR 3.7 - Compatible grouping.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... WELFARE STANDARDS Specifications for the Humane Handling, Care, Treatment, and Transportation of Dogs and Cats 1 Animal Health and Husbandry Standards § 3.7 Compatible grouping. Dogs and cats that are housed...; (b) Any dog or cat exhibiting a vicious or overly aggressive disposition must be housed separately...

9 CFR 3.7 - Compatible grouping.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... WELFARE STANDARDS Specifications for the Humane Handling, Care, Treatment, and Transportation of Dogs and Cats 1 Animal Health and Husbandry Standards § 3.7 Compatible grouping. Dogs and cats that are housed...; (b) Any dog or cat exhibiting a vicious or overly aggressive disposition must be housed separately...

9 CFR 3.7 - Compatible grouping.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... WELFARE STANDARDS Specifications for the Humane Handling, Care, Treatment, and Transportation of Dogs and Cats 1 Animal Health and Husbandry Standards § 3.7 Compatible grouping. Dogs and cats that are housed...; (b) Any dog or cat exhibiting a vicious or overly aggressive disposition must be housed separately...

37 CFR 1.77 - Arrangement of application elements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 37 Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Arrangement of application..., DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE GENERAL RULES OF PRACTICE IN PATENT CASES National Processing Provisions Specification § 1.77 Arrangement of application elements. (a) The elements of the application, if applicable, should...

9 CFR 3.7 - Compatible grouping.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... WELFARE STANDARDS Specifications for the Humane Handling, Care, Treatment, and Transportation of Dogs and Cats 1 Animal Health and Husbandry Standards § 3.7 Compatible grouping. Dogs and cats that are housed...; (b) Any dog or cat exhibiting a vicious or overly aggressive disposition must be housed separately...

9 CFR 3.7 - Compatible grouping.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... WELFARE STANDARDS Specifications for the Humane Handling, Care, Treatment, and Transportation of Dogs and Cats 1 Animal Health and Husbandry Standards § 3.7 Compatible grouping. Dogs and cats that are housed...; (b) Any dog or cat exhibiting a vicious or overly aggressive disposition must be housed separately...

DPL-1 DP, LIN-35 Rb and EFL-1 E2F act with the MCD-1 zinc-finger protein to promote programmed cell death in Caenorhabditis elegans.

PubMed

Reddien, Peter W; Andersen, Erik C; Huang, Michael C; Horvitz, H Robert

2007-04-01

The genes egl-1, ced-9, ced-4, and ced-3 play major roles in programmed cell death in Caenorhabditis elegans. To identify genes that have more subtle activities, we sought mutations that confer strong cell-death defects in a genetically sensitized mutant background. Specifically, we screened for mutations that enhance the cell-death defects caused by a partial loss-of-function allele of the ced-3 caspase gene. We identified mutations in two genes not previously known to affect cell death, dpl-1 and mcd-1 (modifier of cell death). dpl-1 encodes the C. elegans homolog of DP, the human E2F-heterodimerization partner. By testing genes known to interact with dpl-1, we identified roles in cell death for four additional genes: efl-1 E2F, lin-35 Rb, lin-37 Mip40, and lin-52 dLin52. mcd-1 encodes a novel protein that contains one zinc finger and that is synthetically required with lin-35 Rb for animal viability. dpl-1 and mcd-1 act with efl-1 E2F and lin-35 Rb to promote programmed cell death and do so by regulating the killing process rather than by affecting the decision between survival and death. We propose that the DPL-1 DP, MCD-1 zinc finger, EFL-1 E2F, LIN-35 Rb, LIN-37 Mip40, and LIN-52 dLin52 proteins act together in transcriptional regulation to promote programmed cell death.

Characteristics of surface modified Ti-6Al-4V alloy by a series of YAG laser irradiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zeng, Xian; Wang, Wenqin; Yamaguchi, Tomiko; Nishio, Kazumasa

2018-01-01

In this study, a double-layer Ti (C, N) film was successfully prepared on Ti-6Al-4V alloy by a series of YAG laser irradiation in nitrogen atmosphere, aiming at improving the wear resistance. The effects of laser irradiation pass upon surface chemical composition, microstructures and hardness were investigated. The results showed that the surface chemicals were independent from laser irradiation pass, which the up layer of film was a mixture of TiN and TiC0.3N0.7, and the down layer was nitrogen-rich α-Ti. Both the surface roughness and hardness increased as raising the irradiation passes. However, surface deformation and cracks happened in the case above 3 passes' irradiation. The wear resistance of laser modified sample by 3 passes was improved approximately by 37 times compared to the as received substrate. Moreover, the cytotoxic V ion released from laser modified sample was less than that of as received Ti-6Al-4V alloy in SBF, suggesting the potentiality of a new try to modify the sliding part of Ti-based hard tissue implants in future biomedical application.

Development and molecular characterization of genic molecular markers for grain protein and calcium content in finger millet (Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn.).

PubMed

Nirgude, M; Babu, B Kalyana; Shambhavi, Y; Singh, U M; Upadhyaya, H D; Kumar, Anil

2014-03-01

Finger millet (Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn), holds immense agricultural and economic importance for its high nutraceuticals quality. Finger millets seeds are rich source of calcium and its proteins are good source of essential amino acids. In the present study, we developed 36 EST-SSR primers for the opaque2 modifiers and 20 anchored-SSR primers for calcium transporters and calmodulin for analysis of the genetic diversity of 103 finger millet genotypes for grain protein and calcium contents. Out of the 36 opaque2 modifiers primers, 15 were found polymorphic and were used for the diversity analysis. The highest PIC value was observed with the primer FMO2E33 (0.26), while the lowest was observed FMO2E27 (0.023) with an average value of 0.17. The gene diversity was highest for the primer FMO2E33 (0.33), however it was lowest for FMO2E27 (0.024) at average value of 0.29. The percentage polymorphism shown by opaque2 modifiers primers was 68.23%. The diversity analysis by calcium transporters and calmodulin based anchored SSR loci revealed that the highest PIC was observed with the primer FMCA8 (0.30) and the lowest was observed for FMCA5 (0.023) with an average value of 0.18. The highest gene diversity was observed for primer FMCA8 (0.37), while lowest for FMCA5 (0.024) at an average of 0.21. The opaque2 modifiers specific EST-SSRs could able to differentiate the finger millet genotypes into high, medium and low protein containing genotypes. However, calcium dependent candidate gene based EST-SSRs could broadly differentiate the genotypes based on the calcium content with a few exceptions. A significant negative correlation between calcium and protein content was observed. The present study resulted in identification of highly polymorphic primers (FMO2E30, FMO2E33, FMO2-18 and FMO2-14) based on the parameters such as percentage of polymorphism, PIC values, gene diversity and number of alleles.

Population-specific genetic modification of Huntington's disease in Venezuela.

PubMed

Chao, Michael J; Kim, Kyung-Hee; Shin, Jun Wan; Lucente, Diane; Wheeler, Vanessa C; Li, Hong; Roach, Jared C; Hood, Leroy; Wexler, Nancy S; Jardim, Laura B; Holmans, Peter; Jones, Lesley; Orth, Michael; Kwak, Seung; MacDonald, Marcy E; Gusella, James F; Lee, Jong-Min

2018-05-01

Modifiers of Mendelian disorders can provide insights into disease mechanisms and guide therapeutic strategies. A recent genome-wide association (GWA) study discovered genetic modifiers of Huntington's disease (HD) onset in Europeans. Here, we performed whole genome sequencing and GWA analysis of a Venezuelan HD cluster whose families were crucial for the original mapping of the HD gene defect. The Venezuelan HD subjects develop motor symptoms earlier than their European counterparts, implying the potential for population-specific modifiers. The main Venezuelan HD family inherits HTT haplotype hap.03, which differs subtly at the sequence level from European HD hap.03, suggesting a different ancestral origin but not explaining the earlier age at onset in these Venezuelans. GWA analysis of the Venezuelan HD cluster suggests both population-specific and population-shared genetic modifiers. Genome-wide significant signals at 7p21.2-21.1 and suggestive association signals at 4p14 and 17q21.2 are evident only in Venezuelan HD, but genome-wide significant association signals at the established European chromosome 15 modifier locus are improved when Venezuelan HD data are included in the meta-analysis. Venezuelan-specific association signals on chromosome 7 center on SOSTDC1, which encodes a bone morphogenetic protein antagonist. The corresponding SNPs are associated with reduced expression of SOSTDC1 in non-Venezuelan tissue samples, suggesting that interaction of reduced SOSTDC1 expression with a population-specific genetic or environmental factor may be responsible for modification of HD onset in Venezuela. Detection of population-specific modification in Venezuelan HD supports the value of distinct disease populations in revealing novel aspects of a disease and population-relevant therapeutic strategies.

Population-specific genetic modification of Huntington's disease in Venezuela

PubMed Central

Chao, Michael J.; Kim, Kyung-Hee; Shin, Jun Wan; Lucente, Diane; Wheeler, Vanessa C.; Li, Hong; Roach, Jared C.; Hood, Leroy; Jardim, Laura B.; Jones, Lesley; Orth, Michael; Kwak, Seung; MacDonald, Marcy E.; Gusella, James F.

2018-01-01

Modifiers of Mendelian disorders can provide insights into disease mechanisms and guide therapeutic strategies. A recent genome-wide association (GWA) study discovered genetic modifiers of Huntington's disease (HD) onset in Europeans. Here, we performed whole genome sequencing and GWA analysis of a Venezuelan HD cluster whose families were crucial for the original mapping of the HD gene defect. The Venezuelan HD subjects develop motor symptoms earlier than their European counterparts, implying the potential for population-specific modifiers. The main Venezuelan HD family inherits HTT haplotype hap.03, which differs subtly at the sequence level from European HD hap.03, suggesting a different ancestral origin but not explaining the earlier age at onset in these Venezuelans. GWA analysis of the Venezuelan HD cluster suggests both population-specific and population-shared genetic modifiers. Genome-wide significant signals at 7p21.2–21.1 and suggestive association signals at 4p14 and 17q21.2 are evident only in Venezuelan HD, but genome-wide significant association signals at the established European chromosome 15 modifier locus are improved when Venezuelan HD data are included in the meta-analysis. Venezuelan-specific association signals on chromosome 7 center on SOSTDC1, which encodes a bone morphogenetic protein antagonist. The corresponding SNPs are associated with reduced expression of SOSTDC1 in non-Venezuelan tissue samples, suggesting that interaction of reduced SOSTDC1 expression with a population-specific genetic or environmental factor may be responsible for modification of HD onset in Venezuela. Detection of population-specific modification in Venezuelan HD supports the value of distinct disease populations in revealing novel aspects of a disease and population-relevant therapeutic strategies. PMID:29750799

40 CFR 721.6498 - Modified polyisocyanates (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... SUBSTANCES CONTROL ACT SIGNIFICANT NEW USES OF CHEMICAL SUBSTANCES Significant New Uses for Specific Chemical Substances § 721.6498 Modified polyisocyanates (generic). (a) Chemical substance and significant new uses subject to reporting. (1) The chemical substance identified generically as modified polyisocyanates (PMN P...

40 CFR 721.10151 - Modified styrene, divinylbenzene polymer (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... polymer (generic). 721.10151 Section 721.10151 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10151 Modified styrene, divinylbenzene polymer (generic). (a) Chemical... as modified styrene, divinylbenzene polymer (PMN P-07-642) is subject to reporting under this section...

40 CFR 721.10151 - Modified styrene, divinylbenzene polymer (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... polymer (generic). 721.10151 Section 721.10151 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10151 Modified styrene, divinylbenzene polymer (generic). (a) Chemical... as modified styrene, divinylbenzene polymer (PMN P-07-642) is subject to reporting under this section...

40 CFR 721.10120 - Siloxane modified alumina nanoparticles (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... nanoparticles (generic). 721.10120 Section 721.10120 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10120 Siloxane modified alumina nanoparticles (generic). (a) Chemical... as siloxane modified alumina nanoparticles (PMN P-05-687) is subject to reporting under this section...

40 CFR 721.6498 - Modified polyisocyanates (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... SUBSTANCES CONTROL ACT SIGNIFICANT NEW USES OF CHEMICAL SUBSTANCES Significant New Uses for Specific Chemical Substances § 721.6498 Modified polyisocyanates (generic). (a) Chemical substance and significant new uses subject to reporting. (1) The chemical substance identified generically as modified polyisocyanates (PMN P...

40 CFR 721.6498 - Modified polyisocyanates (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... SUBSTANCES CONTROL ACT SIGNIFICANT NEW USES OF CHEMICAL SUBSTANCES Significant New Uses for Specific Chemical Substances § 721.6498 Modified polyisocyanates (generic). (a) Chemical substance and significant new uses subject to reporting. (1) The chemical substance identified generically as modified polyisocyanates (PMN P...

40 CFR 721.10120 - Siloxane modified alumina nanoparticles (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... nanoparticles (generic). 721.10120 Section 721.10120 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10120 Siloxane modified alumina nanoparticles (generic). (a) Chemical... as siloxane modified alumina nanoparticles (PMN P-05-687) is subject to reporting under this section...

40 CFR 721.10120 - Siloxane modified alumina nanoparticles (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... nanoparticles (generic). 721.10120 Section 721.10120 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10120 Siloxane modified alumina nanoparticles (generic). (a) Chemical... as siloxane modified alumina nanoparticles (PMN P-05-687) is subject to reporting under this section...

40 CFR 721.10120 - Siloxane modified alumina nanoparticles (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... nanoparticles (generic). 721.10120 Section 721.10120 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10120 Siloxane modified alumina nanoparticles (generic). (a) Chemical... as siloxane modified alumina nanoparticles (PMN P-05-687) is subject to reporting under this section...

40 CFR 721.10120 - Siloxane modified alumina nanoparticles (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... nanoparticles (generic). 721.10120 Section 721.10120 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10120 Siloxane modified alumina nanoparticles (generic). (a) Chemical... as siloxane modified alumina nanoparticles (PMN P-05-687) is subject to reporting under this section...

40 CFR 721.10151 - Modified styrene, divinylbenzene polymer (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... polymer (generic). 721.10151 Section 721.10151 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10151 Modified styrene, divinylbenzene polymer (generic). (a) Chemical... as modified styrene, divinylbenzene polymer (PMN P-07-642) is subject to reporting under this section...

40 CFR 721.10151 - Modified styrene, divinylbenzene polymer (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... polymer (generic). 721.10151 Section 721.10151 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10151 Modified styrene, divinylbenzene polymer (generic). (a) Chemical... as modified styrene, divinylbenzene polymer (PMN P-07-642) is subject to reporting under this section...

40 CFR 721.10151 - Modified styrene, divinylbenzene polymer (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... polymer (generic). 721.10151 Section 721.10151 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10151 Modified styrene, divinylbenzene polymer (generic). (a) Chemical... as modified styrene, divinylbenzene polymer (PMN P-07-642) is subject to reporting under this section...

Generation of TALE-Based Designer Epigenome Modifiers.

PubMed

Nitsch, Sandra; Mussolino, Claudio

2018-01-01

Manipulation of gene expression can be facilitated by editing the genome or the epigenome. Precise genome editing is traditionally achieved by using designer nucleases which are generally exploited to eliminate a specific gene product. Upon the introduction of a site-specific DNA double-strand break (DSB) by the nuclease, endogenous DSB repair mechanisms are in turn harnessed to induce DNA sequence changes that can result in target gene inactivation. Minimal off-target effects can be obtained by endowing designer nucleases with the highly specific DNA-binding domain (DBD) derived from transcription activator-like effectors (TALEs). In contrast, epigenome editing allows gene expression control without inducing changes in the DNA sequence by specifically altering epigenetic marks, as histone tails modifications or DNA methylation patterns within promoter or enhancer regions. Importantly, this approach allows both up- and downregulation of the target gene expression, and the effect is generally reversible. TALE-based designer epigenome modifiers combine the high specificity of TALE-derived DBDs with the power of epigenetic modifier domains to induce fast and long-lasting changes in the epigenetic landscape of a target gene and control its expression. Here we provide a detailed description for the generation of TALE-based designer epigenome modifiers and of a suitable reporter cell line to easily monitor their activity.

Breast cancer detection using double reading of unenhanced MRI including T1-weighted, T2-weighted STIR, and diffusion-weighted imaging: a proof of concept study.

PubMed

Trimboli, Rubina M; Verardi, Nicola; Cartia, Francesco; Carbonaro, Luca A; Sardanelli, Francesco

2014-09-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the diagnostic performance of unenhanced MRI in detecting breast cancer and to assess the impact of double reading. A total of 116 breasts of 67 women who were 36-89 years old were studied at 1.5 T using an unenhanced protocol including axial T1-weighted gradient-echo, T2-weighted STIR, and echo-planar diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI). Two blinded readers (R1 and R2) independently evaluated unenhanced images using the BIRADS scale. A combination of pathology and negative follow-up served as the reference standard. McNemar and kappa statistics were used. Per-breast cancer prevalence was 37 of 116 (32%): 30 of 37 (81%) invasive ductal carcinoma, five of 37 (13%) ductal carcinoma in situ, and two of 37 (6%) invasive lobular carcinoma. Per-breast sensitivity of unenhanced MRI was 29 of 37 (78%) for R1, 28 of 37 (76%) for R2, and 29 of 37 (78%) for double reading. Specificity was 71 of 79 (90%) for both R1 and R2 and 69 of 79 (87%) for double reading. Double reading did not provide a significant increase in sensitivity. Interobserver agreement was almost perfect (Cohen κ = 0.873). An unenhanced breast MRI protocol composed of T1-weighted gradient echo, T2-weighted STIR, and echo-planar DWI enabled breast cancer detection with sensitivity of 76-78% and specificity of 90% without a gain in sensitivity from double reading.

Pathogenesis of Gallibacterium anatis in a natural infection model fulfils Koch's postulates: 1. Folliculitis and drop in egg production are the predominant effects in specific pathogen free layers.

PubMed

Paudel, Surya; Liebhart, Dieter; Hess, Michael; Hess, Claudia

2014-01-01

Pathogenicity of Gallibacterium anatis was studied in specific pathogen free layers in a controlled environment, applying the intranasal route for experimental infection. At 30 weeks, 37 hens were infected with 0.4 ml of 1.53 × 10(8) colony-forming units/ml suspension of G. anatis strain 07990 whereas equal numbers of hens were left uninfected for control. Following experimental infection, clinical signs and the number and weight of the eggs were recorded daily until 5 weeks post infection. Three birds from each group were killed at 3, 7, 10, 28 and 38 days post infection (d.p.i.) for necropsy and sampling for bacteriological and histopathological examinations. Additionally, necropsy examination was performed on all remaining birds at 38 d.p.i. G. anatis infection was found to have an immediate and severe effect on egg production, showing early and persistent colonization in respiratory and reproductive organs as well as in the gut of infected layers. In birds killed at various time points, G. anatis infection caused focal necrosis in the liver (1/37), folliculitis (2/37), pericarditis (3/37), haemorrhagic follicles (2/37), ruptured follicles (20/37), yolk in the body cavity (2/37) and egg peritonitis (1/37). The inflammation of the ovaries could be further confirmed by histopathological examination. Recovery of G. anatis from yolk at 10 d.p.i. indicates the potential of vertical transmission. Altogether, lesions reflect typical findings of G. anatis infection reported in natural cases. Thus, for the first time, lesions and the consecutive disease caused by G. anatis infection have been reproduced experimentally in a natural infection model.

Processing woody biomass with a modified horizontal grinder

Treesearch

Dana Mitchell; John Klepac

2008-01-01

This study documents the production rate and cost of producing woody biomass chips for use in a power plant. The power plant has specific raw material handling requirements. Output from a 3-knife chipper, a tub grinder, and a horizontal grinder was considered. None of the samples from these machines met the specifications needed. A horizontal grinder was modified to...

Effect of modified atmospheric packaging on the shelf life of Kalakand and its influence on microbial, textural, sensory and physico-chemical properties.

PubMed

Jain, Vishal; Rasane, Prasad; Jha, Alok; Sharma, Nitya; Gautam, Anuj

2015-07-01

Kalakand, a popular traditional milk sweet of Indian sub-continent, was packaged under air and modified atmospheric packaging (MAP) conditions (98 % N2, 98 % CO2 and 50 % N2: 50 % CO2). The samples were stored at 10, 25 and 37 °C and evaluated for various physico-chemical, microbial, textural and sensory changes, in order to establish the applicability of MAP for storage of Kalakand. It could be established that the MAP conditions of 50 % N2: 50 % CO2and storage at 10 °C, were the most suitable conditions for preserving the Kalakand for upto 60 days.

High ALDH1 expression correlates with better prognosis in tumorigenic malignant melanoma.

PubMed

Taylor, Laura A; Abraham, Ronnie M; Tahirovic, Emin; van Belle, Patricia; Li, Bin; Huang, Linfang; Elder, David E; Gimotty, Phyllis; Xu, Xiaowei

2017-05-01

Aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 (ALDH1) has been proposed as biomarker of stem cells for certain human cancers. ALDH1 expression has been correlated with poor patient outcomes in a variety of malignancies but better patient outcomes in others, and its prognostic significance in malignant melanoma is unclear. Thus, 68 melanoma patients with comprehensive clinical and pathologic follow-up data were used to construct a tissue microarray. A modified histological score (H-score) with a maximum score of 300 was used to quantify immunohistochemical staining for ALDH1. Survival time was defined as the time between diagnosis and melanoma-specific death. Using univariate logistic regression, a low (<80 H-score) ALDH1 score showed 3.7-fold increase in risk for melanoma-specific death within 10 years when compared with high (>80) ALDH1 levels (P=0.017). Odds of MSD were lower by a factor of ~0.9 for each 10-point increase in H-Score. Median survival time was 44.1 months and 180.9 months for patients with low and high ALDH1 expression, respectively. Using multivariate analysis, ALDH1 H-score was found to be an independent prognostic factor. These findings suggest that ALDH1 expression in malignant melanoma has a favorable effect on patient survival. Further study is needed elucidate the function of this enzymatic protein in melanoma progression.

HLA-B40, B18, B27, and B37 allele discrimination using group-specific amplification and SSCP method.

PubMed

Bannai, M; Tokunaga, K; Lin, L; Ogawa, A; Fujisawa, K; Juji, T

1996-04-01

We developed a system for discriminating HLA-B40, B18, B27, and B37 alleles using a two-step PCR method followed by SSCP analysis. Fragments (0.8 kb) including exon 2, intron 2, and exon 3 were amplified in the first PCR. We used two sets of primers, one specific for HLA-B60-related alleles and the other specific for HLA-B61-related, B18, B27, and B37 alleles. No amplifications of other class I genes or pseudogenes were observed. In the second PCR, exon 2 and exon 3 were amplified separately, using diluents of the first PCR products as templates. HLA-B61-related, B18, B27, B37, and B60-related alleles were clearly discriminated in the SSCP analysis of the second PCR products. In a population study in which B61 alleles were analyzed, B*4003 was detected in two Japanese individuals in addition to two B61 alleles previously reported to occur in Japanese, B*4002 and B*4006. The relative frequencies of B*4002, B*4006, and B*4003 in Japanese were 58, 35, and 6%, respectively. The individuals having B*4003 are the first non-South Americans in whom this allele has been detected. The SSCP banding patterns of 18 HLA-B60-positive Japanese population samples were identical to those of a B*40012 sample for both exon 2 and exon 3. We also demonstrated that the B37 allele occurring in some Japanese is B*3701.

37 CFR 1.75 - Claim(s).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 37 Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights 1 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Claim(s). 1.75 Section 1.75 Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights UNITED STATES PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE GENERAL RULES OF PRACTICE IN PATENT CASES National Processing Provisions Specification § 1.75 Claim(s). (a...

37 CFR 1.75 - Claim(s).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 37 Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights 1 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Claim(s). 1.75 Section 1.75 Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights UNITED STATES PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE GENERAL RULES OF PRACTICE IN PATENT CASES National Processing Provisions Specification § 1.75 Claim(s). (a...

37 CFR 350.4 - Filing and service.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 37 Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights 1 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Filing and service. 350.4... certification that to the best of the person's knowledge, information, and belief, formed after an inquiry... specifically so identified, are reasonably based on a lack of information or belief. (2) Parties representing...

37 CFR 350.4 - Filing and service.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 37 Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights 1 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Filing and service. 350.4... certification that to the best of the person's knowledge, information, and belief, formed after an inquiry... specifically so identified, are reasonably based on a lack of information or belief. (2) Parties representing...

37 CFR 350.4 - Filing and service.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 37 Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights 1 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Filing and service. 350.4... certification that to the best of the person's knowledge, information, and belief, formed after an inquiry... specifically so identified, are reasonably based on a lack of information or belief. (2) Parties representing...

37 CFR 1.58 - Chemical and mathematical formulae and tables.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 37 Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights 1 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Chemical and mathematical... Provisions The Application § 1.58 Chemical and mathematical formulae and tables. (a) The specification, including the claims, may contain chemical and mathematical formulae, but shall not contain drawings or flow...

14 CFR 47.37 - Aircraft last previously registered in a foreign country.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... TRANSPORTATION AIRCRAFT AIRCRAFT REGISTRATION Certificates of Aircraft Registration § 47.37 Aircraft last..., 47.13, 47.15, and 47.17, as applicable; (2) Submits with his Aircraft Registration Application, AC... Equipment on Matters Specific to Aircraft Equipment (the Cape Town Treaty), the foreign registration has...

14 CFR 47.37 - Aircraft last previously registered in a foreign country.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... TRANSPORTATION AIRCRAFT AIRCRAFT REGISTRATION Certificates of Aircraft Registration § 47.37 Aircraft last..., 47.13, 47.15, and 47.17, as applicable; (2) Submits with his Aircraft Registration Application, AC... Equipment on Matters Specific to Aircraft Equipment (the Cape Town Treaty), the foreign registration has...

14 CFR 47.37 - Aircraft last previously registered in a foreign country.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... TRANSPORTATION AIRCRAFT AIRCRAFT REGISTRATION Certificates of Aircraft Registration § 47.37 Aircraft last... Matters Specific to Aircraft Equipment (the Cape Town Treaty), the foreign registration has ended or is... registration has ended or is invalid, and showing the official's name and title and describing the aircraft by...

Specific and common antigens of Clonorchis sinensis and Opisthorchis viverrini (Opisthorchidae, Trematoda)

PubMed Central

Choi, Min-Ho; Ryu, Jin-Sook; Lee, Mejeong; Li, Shunyu; Chung, Byung-Suk; Chai, Jong-Yil; Sithithaworn, Paiboon; Tesana, Smarn

2003-01-01

The antigenic characterizations and serological reactions of human liver flukes, Clonorchis sinensis and Opisthorchis viverrini, were analyzed by immunoblot. The antigenic profiles of the crude extract of Clonorchis contained major proteins of 8, 26-28, 34-37, 43, and 70 kDa, and those of Opisthorchis 34-37, 43, 70, and 100 kDa. Of these, the 8, 26-28 and 34-37 kDa bands of Clonorchis and the 100 kDa of Opisthorchis were major components of each excretory-secretory antigen. The 8 and 26-28 kDa bands were specific to Clonorchis but the 100 kDa of Opisthorchis cross-reacted with the sera of clonorchiasis, and the 34-37, 70 and 100 kDa bands cross-reacted with sera of other helminthiases. The frequency and intensity of the immunoblot reactions were positively correlated with the intensity of the liver fluke infection. PMID:12972729

Does body mass index modify the association between physical activity and screen time with cardiometabolic risk factors in adolescents? Findings from a country-wide survey.

PubMed

Cureau, F V; Ekelund, U; Bloch, K V; Schaan, B D

2017-04-01

Moderate and vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and screen time (ST) have been associated with cardiometabolic health in youth. However, previous studies are conflicting whether these associations are independent of each other and it is unknown if they are modified by adiposity. We aimed to examine the independent and joint associations between MVPA and ST with cardiometabolic risk across body mass index (BMI) categories. A total of 36 956 Brazilian adolescents (12-17 years) from the Study of Cardiovascular Risks in Adolescents were included. Information on time spent in MVPA and ST were assessed by self-reports. Blood pressure, Homeostasis Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol and waist circumference were used to calculate a cardiometabolic risk score (sex-age-specific top-risk quintile for each biomarker). Ordered logistic regression was used to examine the associations. In final adjusted models, both higher MVPA (proportional odds ratio (POR)=0.80; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.67-0.95) and ST (POR=1.23; 95% CI: 1.10-1.37) were independently associated with cardiometabolic risk. After stratification by normal weight vs overweight/obese, the inverse independent association for MVPA remained unchanged, whereas ST was positively associated with cardiometabolic risk only in overweight/obese adolescents (POR=1.62; 95% CI: 1.18-2.22). Participants who met the recommendations for both MVPA and ST had lower odds for cardiometabolic risk, especially if they were overweight/obese (POR=0.46; 95% CI: 0.31-0.68). MVPA and ST are independently associated with cardiometabolic risk; the association with ST, however, appears modified by BMI. Normal-weight adolescents should be encouraged to increase MVPA, whereas a combination of increasing MVPA and decreasing ST is recommended in those who are overweight or obese.

DNA repair polymorphisms in B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia in sufferers of Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant accident.

PubMed

Abramenko, Iryna; Bilous, Nadiia; Chumak, Anatolyi; Kostin, Alexey; Martina, Zoya; Dyagil, Iryna

2012-01-01

An association between DNA repair gene polymorphisms, environmental factors, and development of some types of cancer has been suggested by several studies. Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is the most common form of leukemia in the clean-up workers of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) accident and it has some specific features. Therefore, we have studied the possible differences in DNA repair gene polymorphisms in CLL patients depending on ionizing radiation (IR) exposure history and their clinical characterictics. Arg399Gln XRCC1, Thr241Met XRCC3, and Lys751Gln XPD polymorphisms were studied in 64 CLL patients, exposed to IR due to the Chernobyl NPP accident, 114 IR-non-exposed CLL patients, and 103 sex- and age-matched IR-exposed controls using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment-length polymorphism analysis. All investigated polymorphisms were equally distributed between two groups of CLL patients and IR-exposed controls, except that that there was a significant reduction of the common homozygous Lys/Lys XPD genotype among IR-exposed CLL patients (23.7%) compared with IR-exposed controls (45.6%), OR = 0.37; 95% CI = 0.18-0.75; (P = 0.005). The number of IR-non-exposed CLL patients (37.4%) with the Lys/Lys XPD genotype was also decreased compared to IR-exposed controls, although this difference was not significant (P = 0.223). These preliminary data suggest a possible modifying role of Lys751Gln XPD polymorphism for the development of CLL, expecially in radiation-exposed persons.

Effect of different sizes of palm oil fuel ash (POFA) towards physical properties of modified bitumen

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raja Zulkefli, R. N. A.; Yaacob, H.; Putra Jaya, R.; Warid, M. N. M.; Hassan, N.; Hainin, M. R.; Idham, M. K.

2018-04-01

In the past decades, numerous numbers of studies have been carried out to find ways enhancing properties of bitumen. Other than using polymer, agricultural waste such as palm oil fuel ash (POFA) is one of the waste products that can be used to modify bitumen. In this study, the physical and rheological properties of POFA modified bitumen were examined based on different grinding hour and different percentage of POFA. The bitumen were mixed with different percentages of POFA (0, 5 and 7%) which passed through 0.075 mm sieve and grinded at different period (1 and 4 hour). The samples were then tested and compared to conventional bitumen. From TEM results, POFA grinded at 1 hour have sizes between 3-7 µm while POFA grinded for 4 hours have finer sizes between 500 nm to 3 µm. The results showed that fineness of POFA affect properties of bitumen significantly. Decreasing in penetration value and decreasing in softening temperature indicates that the modified bitumen becomes harder than conventional bitumen. Modified bitumen gives best results when added with 7% POFA sizes of 500 nm to 3 µm compared to 3 to 7 µm.

Three modified activated carbons by different ligands for the solid phase extraction of copper and lead.

PubMed

Ghaedi, M; Ahmadi, F; Tavakoli, Z; Montazerozohori, M; Khanmohammadi, A; Soylak, M

2008-04-15

In the presented work, 5,5-diphenylimidazolidine-2,4-dione (phenytoin) (DFTD), 5,5-diphenylimidazolidine-2-thione-,4-one (thiophenytoin) (DFID) and 2-(4'-methoxy-benzylidenimine) thiophenole (MBIP) modified activated carbons have been used for the solid phase extraction of copper and lead ions prior to their flame atomic absorption spectrometric determinations. The influences of the various analytical parameters including pH, amounts of reagent, sample volume and eluent type, etc. on the recovery efficiencies of copper and lead ions were investigated. The influences of alkaline, earth alkaline and some transition metals on the adsorption of the analytes were also examined. The detection limits by three sigma for analyte ions were 0.65 and 0.42 microg L(-1) using activated carbon modified with DFID; 0.52 and 0.37 microg L(-1) using activated carbon modified with DFTD and 0.46 and 0.31 microg L(-1) using activated carbon modified with MBIP for Pb(II) and Cu(II), respectively. The procedure was applied to the determination of analytes in natural waters, soil, and blood samples with satisfactory results (recoveries greater than 95%, R.S.D.'s lower than 4%).

Aerospace industry representatives view actual and mock-up versions of 'X-Planes' intended to enhanc

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2000-01-01

Aerospace industry representatives view actual and mock-up versions of 'X-Planes' intended to enhance access to space during a technical exposition on June 22, 2000 at Dryden Flight Research Center, Edwards, California. From left to right: NASA's B-52 launch aircraft, in service with NASA since 1959; a neutral-buoyancy model of the Boeing's X-37; the Boeing X-40A behind the MicroCraft X-43 mock-up; Orbital Science's X-34 and the modified Lockheed L-1011 airliner that was to launch the X-34. These X-vehicles are part of NASA's Access to Space plan intended to bring new technologies to bear in an effort to dramatically lower the cost of putting payloads in space, and near-space environments. The June 22, 2000 NASA Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) Technology Exposition included presentations on the history, present, and future of NASA's RLV program. Special Sessions for industry representatives highlighted the X-37 project and its related technologies. The X-37 project is managed by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, Alabama.

At NASA Dryden, Aerospace industry representatives view actual and mock-up versions of 'X-Planes' in

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2000-01-01

Aerospace industry representatives view actual and mock-up versions of 'X-Planes' intended to enhance access to space during a technical exposition on June 22, 2000 at Dryden Flight Research Center, Edwards, California. From left to right: NASA's B-52 launch aircraft, in service with NASA since 1959; a neutral-buoyancy model of the Boeing's X-37; the Boeing X-40A behind the MicroCraft X-43 mock-up; Orbital Science's X-34 and the modified Lockheed L-1011 airliner that was to launch the X-34. These X-vehicles are part of NASA's Access to Space plan intended to bring new technologies to bear in an effort to dramatically lower the cost of putting payloads in space, and near-space environments. The June 22, 2000 NASA Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) Technology Exposition included presentations on the history, present, and future of NASA's RLV program. Special Sessions for industry representatives highlighted the X-37 project and its related technologies. The X-37 project is managed by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, Alabama.

The HEART score with high-sensitive troponin T at presentation: ruling out patients with chest pain in the emergency room.

PubMed

Santi, Luca; Farina, Gabriele; Gramenzi, Annagiulia; Trevisani, Franco; Baccini, Margherita; Bernardi, Mauro; Cavazza, Mario

2017-04-01

The HEART score is a simple scoring system, ranging from 0 to 10, specifically developed for risk stratification of patients with undifferentiated chest pain. It has been validated for the conventional troponin, but not for high-sensitive troponin. We assess a modified version of the HEART score using a single high-sensitivity troponin T dosage at presentation, regardless of symptom duration, and with different ECG criteria to evaluate if the patients with a low HEART score could be safely discharged early. The secondary aim was to confirm a statistically significant difference in each HEART score group (low 0-3, intermediate 4-6, high 7-10) in the occurrence of major adverse cardiac events at 30 and 180 days. We retrospectively analyzed the HEART score of 1597 consecutive patients admitted to the Emergency Department of our Hospital for chest pain between January 1 and June 30, 2014. Of these, 190 did not meet the inclusion criteria and 29 were lost to follow-up. None of the 512 (37.2 %) patients with a low HEART score had an event within 180 days. The difference between the cumulative incidences of events in the three HEART score groups was statistically significant (P < 0.0001). We demonstrate that it might be possible to safely discharge Emergency Department chest pain patients with a low modified HEART score after an initial determination of high-sensitive troponin T, without a prolonged observation period or an additional cardiac testing.

Developing a tool for nurses to assess risk of infection in pediatric oncology patients in China: a modified Delphi study.

PubMed

Zhou, Yufeng; Cui, Yan; Wang, Hong; Wang, Fang; Lu, Chao; Shen, Yan

2016-09-01

Infections are identified as the most common preventable cause of death in pediatric oncology patients. Assessing and stratifying risk of infections are essential to prevent infection in these patients. To date, no tool can fulfill this demand in China. This study aimed to develop a nursing work-based and Chinese-specific tool for pediatric nurses to assess risk of infection in oncology patients. This research was a modified Delphi study. Based on a literature review, a 37-item questionnaire rating on a 0-5 scale was developed. Twenty-four experts from 8 hospitals in 6 provinces of China were consulted for three rounds. Consensus for each item in the first round was defined as: the rating mean was>3 and the coefficient of variation (CV) was<0.5. Consensus for each item in the second round was defined as CV<0.3. Consensus among experts was defined as: P value of Kendall's coefficient of concordance ( W )<0.05. After three rounds of consultation, a two-part tool was developed: the Immune Status Scale (ISS) and the Checklist of Risk Factors of Infection (CRFI). There were 5 items in the ISS and 14 in the CRFI. Based on the ISS score, nurses could stratify children into the low-risk and high-risk groups. For high-risk children, nurses should screen risk factors of infection every day by the CRFI, and twice weekly for low-risk children. Further study is needed to verify this tool's efficacy. © 2016 the Journal of Biomedical Research. All rights reserved.

Cyclophilin B mediates cyclosporin A incorporation in human blood T-lymphocytes through the specific binding of complexed drug to the cell surface.

PubMed

Allain, F; Denys, A; Spik, G

1996-07-15

Cyclophilin B (CyPB) is a cyclosporin A (CsA)-binding protein located within intracellular vesicles and released in biological fluids. We recently reported the specific binding of this protein to T-cell surface receptor which is internalized even in the presence of CsA. These results suggest that CyPB might target the drug to lymphocytes and consequently modify its activity. To verify this hypothesis, we have first investigated the binding capacity and internalization of the CsA-CyPB complex in human peripheral blood T-lymphocytes and secondly compared the inhibitory effect of both free and CyPB-complexed CsA on the CD3-induced activation and proliferation of T-cells. Here, we present evidence that both the CsA-CyPB complex and free CyPB bind to the T-lymphocyte surface, with similar values of Kd and number of sites. At 37 degrees C, the complex is internalized but, in contrast to the protein, the drug is accumulated within the cell. Moreover, CyPB receptors are internalized together with the ligand and rapidly recycled to the cell surface. Finally, we demonstrate that CyPB-complexed CsA remains as efficient as uncomplexed CsA and that CyPB enhances the immunosuppressive activity of the drug. Taken together, our results support the hypothesis that surface CyPB receptors may be related to the selective and variable action of CsA, through specific binding and targeting of the CyPB-CsA complex to peripheral blood T-lymphocytes.

The N-degradome of Escherichia coli

PubMed Central

Humbard, Matthew A.; Surkov, Serhiy; De Donatis, Gian Marco; Jenkins, Lisa M.; Maurizi, Michael R.

2013-01-01

The N-end rule is a conserved mechanism found in Gram-negative bacteria and eukaryotes for marking proteins to be degraded by ATP-dependent proteases. Specific N-terminal amino acids (N-degrons) are sufficient to target a protein to the degradation machinery. In Escherichia coli, the adaptor ClpS binds an N-degron and delivers the protein to ClpAP for degradation. As ClpS recognizes N-terminal Phe, Trp, Tyr, and Leu, which are not found at the N terminus of proteins translated and processed by the canonical pathway, proteins must be post-translationally modified to expose an N-degron. One modification is catalyzed by Aat, an enzyme that adds leucine or phenylalanine to proteins with N-terminal lysine or arginine; however, such proteins are also not generated by the canonical protein synthesis pathway. Thus, the mechanisms producing N-degrons in proteins and the frequency of their occurrence largely remain a mystery. To address these issues, we used a ClpS affinity column to isolate interacting proteins from E. coli cell lysates under non-denaturing conditions. We identified more than 100 proteins that differentially bound to a column charged with wild-type ClpS and eluted with a peptide bearing an N-degron. Thirty-two of 37 determined N-terminal peptides had N-degrons. Most of the proteins were N-terminally truncated by endoproteases or exopeptidases, and many were further modified by Aat. The identities of the proteins point to possible physiological roles for the N-end rule in cell division, translation, transcription, and DNA replication and reveal widespread proteolytic processing of cellular proteins to generate N-end rule substrates. PMID:23960079

Alteration of Substrate and Inhibitor Specificity of Feline Immunodeficiency Virus Protease

PubMed Central

Lin, Ying-Chuan; Beck, Zachary; Lee, Taekyu; Le, Van-Duc; Morris, Garrett M.; Olson, Arthur J.; Wong, Chi-Huey; Elder, John H.

2000-01-01

Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) protease is structurally very similar to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) protease but exhibits distinct substrate and inhibitor specificities. We performed mutagenesis of subsite residues of FIV protease in order to define interactions that dictate this specificity. The I37V, N55M, M56I, V59I, and Q99V mutants yielded full activity. The I37V, N55M, V59I, and Q99V mutants showed a significant increase in activity against the HIV-1 reverse transcriptase/integrase and P2/nucleocapsid junction peptides compared with wild-type (wt) FIV protease. The I37V, V59I, and Q99V mutants also showed an increase in activity against two rapidly cleaved peptides selected by cleavage of a phage display library with HIV-1 protease. Mutations at Q54K, I98P, and L101I dramatically reduced activity. Mutants containing a I35D or I57G substitution showed no activity against either FIV or HIV substrates. FIV proteases all failed to cut HIV-1 matrix/capsid, P1/P6, P6/protease, and protease/reverse transcriptase junctions, indicating that none of the substitutions were sufficient to change the specificity completely. The I37V, N55M, M56I, V59I, and Q99V mutants, compared with wt FIV protease, all showed inhibitor specificity more similar to that of HIV-1 protease. The data also suggest that FIV protease prefers a hydrophobic P2/P2′ residue like Val over Asn or Glu, which are utilized by HIV-1 protease, and that S2/S2′ might play a critical role in distinguishing FIV and HIV-1 protease by specificity. The findings extend our observations regarding the interactions involved in substrate binding and aid in the development of broad-based inhibitors. PMID:10775609

Morphological characteristics of developmental stages of Acanthamoeba and Naegleria species before and after staining by various techniques.

PubMed

Ithoi, Init; Ahmad, Arine-Fadzlun; Mak, J W; Nissapatorn, Veeranoot; Lau, Yee-Ling; Mahmud, Rohela

2011-11-01

Seven stains were studied to determine the best color and contrast for staining the developmental stages of free living pathogenic Acanthamoeba and Naegleria species. The acid-fast bacilli stain (AFB) produced a blue color without contrast; trichrome-eosin and modified Field's showed various color contrasts; Giemsa, iron-hematoxylin, modified AFB and Gram produced only one color which distinguished the nucleus, nucleolus, cytoplasm, food- and water-vacuoles. The motile organs (acanthopodia, pseudopodia, lobopodia and flagella) were also clearly differentiated but produced a similar color as the cytoplasm. These motile organelles were first induced by incubating at 37 degrees C for at least 15 minutes and then fixing with methanol in order to preserve the protruding morphology prior to staining. The trichrome-eosin and iron-hematoxylin stains showed good color contrast for detecting all three stages, the trophozoite, cyst and flagellate; Giemsa and Gram stained the trophozoite and flagellate stages; the modified Field's and modified AFB stains stained only the trophozoite stage. Depending on the purpose, all these stains (except the AFB stain) can be used to identify the developmental stages of Acanthamoeba and Naegleria for clinical, epidemiological or public health use.

[Genetically modified plants and food safety. State of the art and discussion in the European Union].

PubMed

Schauzu, M

2004-09-01

Placing genetically modified (GM) plants and derived products on the European Union's (EU) market has been regulated by a Community Directive since 1990. This directive was complemented by a regulation specific for genetically modified and other novel foods in 1997. Specific labelling requirements have been applicable for GM foods since 1998. The law requires a pre-market safety assessment for which criteria have been elaborated and continuously adapted in accordance with the state of the art by national and international bodies and organisations. Consequently, only genetically modified products that have been demonstrated to be as safe as their conventional counterparts can be commercialized. However, the poor acceptance of genetically modified foods has led to a de facto moratorium since 1998. It is based on the lack of a qualified majority of EU member states necessary for authorization to place genetically modified plants and derived foods on the market. New Community Regulations are intended to end this moratorium by providing a harmonized and transparent safety assessment, a centralised authorization procedure, extended labelling provisions and a traceability system for genetically modified organisms (GMO) and derived food and feed.

Low body temperature does not compromise the treatment effect of alteplase.

PubMed

Lees, Jennifer S; Mishra, Nishant K; Saini, Monica; Lyden, Patrick D; Shuaib, Ashfaq

2011-09-01

Hypothermia is neuroprotective in ischemic stroke models. The influence of baseline body temperature on outcomes after thrombolytic therapy is unclear. We examined outcomes after alteplase treatment across baseline body temperature for patients with ischemic stroke in data held within the Virtual International Stroke Trials Archive (VISTA; 1998 to 2007). We collated data on age, baseline severity (National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale), and 90-day modified Rankin Scale score on patients presenting with acute ischemic stroke. We compared 90-day modified Rankin Scale score between thrombolyzed and nonthrombolyzed comparators across baseline body temperature. We report age and baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale-adjusted Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel probability value and proportional OR with 95% CI for improved modified Rankin Scale distribution. We report temperature profiles over 72 hours after stroke by treatment group. Rankin data were available for 5586 patients with acute ischemic stroke in VISTA (1980 received alteplase). Age and baseline severity were similar (age 68.0±13.0 years versus 69.9±12.3 years, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale 14.2±5.2 versus 13.0±5.6). Alteplase was associated with improved outcome (OR, 1.49; 95% CI, 1.35 to 1.65, P<0.0001). Alteplase treatment effect was not associated with baseline temperature (P=0.14). Point estimates showed benefit of alteplase treatment across 35.5°C to 37.5°C but showed a negative trend >37.5°C. Alteplase did not influence temperature profiles over 72 hours after stroke. There is no evidence of influence of body temperature on alteplase treatment response. These results are reassuring that low temperatures across a physiological range do not compromise therapeutic effect of alteplase.

Proteolytic processing of poliovirus polypeptides: antibodies to polypeptide P3-7c inhibit cleavage at glutamine-glycine pairs

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

Hanecak, R.; Semler, B.L.; Anderson, C.W.

1982-07-01

Proteolytic processing of poliovirus polypeptides was examined by the addition of antibodies directed against the viral proteins P3-7c and P2-X to a cell-free translation extract prepared from infected HeLa cells. Antisera to P3-7c specifically inhibited in vitro processing at Gln-Gly pairs. Partial amino acid sequence analysis revealed a second Tyr-Gly pair that is utilized in protein processing. Neither Tyr-Gly cleavage is affected by antibody to P3-7C. Anti-P3-7c antibodies react not only with P3-7c but also with P3-6a and P3-2, two viral polypeptides NH/sub 2/-coterminal with P3-7c. Preimmune and anti-P2-X antibodies had no effect on the processing of poliovirus proteins inmore » vitro. The authors conclude that the activity responsible for processing poliovirus polypeptides at Gln-Gly pairs resides in the primary structure of P3-7c and not in P2-X.« less

Comparison of gene expression profiles between pansensitive and multidrug-resistant strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

PubMed

Peñuelas-Urquides, K; González-Escalante, L; Villarreal-Treviño, L; Silva-Ramírez, B; Gutiérrez-Fuentes, D J; Mojica-Espinosa, R; Rangel-Escareño, C; Uribe-Figueroa, L; Molina-Salinas, G M; Dávila-Velderrain, J; Castorena-Torres, F; Bermúdez de León, M; Said-Fernández, S

2013-09-01

Mycobacterium tuberculosis has developed resistance to anti-tuberculosis first-line drugs. Multidrug-resistant strains complicate the control of tuberculosis and have converted it into a worldwide public health problem. Mutational studies of target genes have tried to envisage the resistance in clinical isolates; however, detection of these mutations in some cases is not sufficient to identify drug resistance, suggesting that other mechanisms are involved. Therefore, the identification of new markers of susceptibility or resistance to first-line drugs could contribute (1) to specifically diagnose the type of M. tuberculosis strain and prescribe an appropriate therapy, and (2) to elucidate the mechanisms of resistance in multidrug-resistant strains. In order to identify specific genes related to resistance in M. tuberculosis, we compared the gene expression profiles between the pansensitive H37Rv strain and a clinical CIBIN:UMF:15:99 multidrug-resistant isolate using microarray analysis. Quantitative real-time PCR confirmed that in the clinical multidrug-resistant isolate, the esxG, esxH, rpsA, esxI, and rpmI genes were upregulated, while the lipF, groES, and narG genes were downregulated. The modified genes could be involved in the mechanisms of resistance to first-line drugs in M. tuberculosis and could contribute to increased efficiency in molecular diagnosis approaches of infections with drug-resistant strains.

40 CFR 721.10533 - Amine-modified urea-formaldehyde polymer (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... polymer (generic). 721.10533 Section 721.10533 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10533 Amine-modified urea-formaldehyde polymer (generic). (a) Chemical... as amine-modified urea-formaldehyde polymer (PMN P-12-182) is subject to reporting under this section...

40 CFR 721.10533 - Amine-modified urea-formaldehyde polymer (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... polymer (generic). 721.10533 Section 721.10533 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10533 Amine-modified urea-formaldehyde polymer (generic). (a) Chemical... as amine-modified urea-formaldehyde polymer (PMN P-12-182) is subject to reporting under this section...

An Empirical Study on the Projection of Specificity in the Usage of Modifiers in Chinese College EFL Writing

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ningling, Wei

2015-01-01

Specificity, as a dimension of cognitive construal, refers to the capacity of a speaker to describe an entity or a situation in different accuracy and details (Langacker, 2008), which is linguistically reflected in lexical and grammatical levels (Wen, 2012). Modifiers can extend a simple sentence into a long and complicated one (Weng, 2007),…

Mutations in C8ORF37 cause Bardet Biedl syndrome (BBS21)

PubMed Central

Heon, Elise; Kim, Gunhee; Qin, Sophie; Garrison, Janelle E.; Tavares, Erika; Vincent, Ajoy; Nuangchamnong, Nina; Scott, C. Anthony; Slusarski, Diane C.; Sheffield, Val C.

2016-01-01

Bardet Biedl syndrome (BBS) is a multisystem genetically heterogeneous ciliopathy that most commonly leads to obesity, photoreceptor degeneration, digit anomalies, genito-urinary abnormalities, as well as cognitive impairment with autism, among other features. Sequencing of a DNA sample from a 17-year-old female affected with BBS did not identify any mutation in the known BBS genes. Whole-genome sequencing identified a novel loss-of-function disease-causing homozygous mutation (K102*) in C8ORF37, a gene coding for a cilia protein. The proband was overweight (body mass index 29.1) with a slowly progressive rod-cone dystrophy, a mild learning difficulty, high myopia, three limb post-axial polydactyly, horseshoe kidney, abnormally positioned uterus and elevated liver enzymes. Mutations in C8ORF37 were previously associated with severe autosomal recessive retinal dystrophies (retinitis pigmentosa RP64 and cone-rod dystrophy CORD16) but not BBS. To elucidate the functional role of C8ORF37 in a vertebrate system, we performed gene knockdown in Danio rerio and assessed the cardinal features of BBS and visual function. Knockdown of c8orf37 resulted in impaired visual behavior and BBS-related phenotypes, specifically, defects in the formation of Kupffer’s vesicle and delays in retrograde transport. Specificity of these phenotypes to BBS knockdown was shown with rescue experiments. Over-expression of human missense mutations in zebrafish also resulted in impaired visual behavior and BBS-related phenotypes. This is the first functional validation and association of C8ORF37 mutations with the BBS phenotype, which identifies BBS21. The zebrafish studies hereby show that C8ORF37 variants underlie clinically diagnosed BBS-related phenotypes as well as isolated retinal degeneration. PMID:27008867

Laparoscopic technique of modified extraperitoneal (retrotransversalis) end colostomy for abdomino-perineal resection.

PubMed

Tulina, I A; Kitsenko, Y E; Ubushiev, M N; Efetov, S K; Wexner, S; Tsarkov, P V

2018-05-19

To describe the technique of a modified extraperitoneal retrotransversalis end colostomy as part of a laparoscopic abdomino-perineal resection (APR). The colostomy site is preoperatively chosen and intraoperatively used for a trocar. After the rectum has been mobilized the descending colon is freed. The peritoneal margin is gently grasped and the parietal peritoneum, extraperitoneal together with the transversalis fascia are separated from the transverse abdominal muscle fibres upwards for 3-4 cm aiming at the trocar site to form the extraperitoneal retrotransversalis canal. The stoma site trocar is partially withdrawn and its head is turned laterally until its tip is positioned in the layer between abdominal wall muscles and underlying transversalis and extraperitoneal fascia together with parietal peritoneum. The CO 2 source can be attached so that the gas helps to separate the layers. After that the colostomy trephine is formed at the site of the trocar, the grasper is inserted to gently deliver the blunt end of the descending colon through the canal and the end colostomy is formed in a usual way. No procedure specific complications were noted in 39 patients who had laparoscopic APR with extraperitoneal retrotransversalis end colostomy from 2009 to 2016. In 23 patients who survived 3.7 ± 1.7 years after surgery there were no clinical or CT signs of parastomal hernia or prolapse. This single institution retrospective case series demonstrate that laparoscopic extraperitoneal retrotransversalis end colostomy is feasible, safe, and effective in preventing parastomal hernias and stomal prolapse This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Monoclonal antibodies specific for African swine fever virus proteins.

PubMed Central

Sanz, A; García-Barreno, B; Nogal, M L; Viñuela, E; Enjuanes, L

1985-01-01

We have obtained 60 stable hybridomas which produced immunoglobulins that recognized 12 proteins from African swine fever virus particles and African swine fever virus-infected cells. Most of the monoclonal antibodies were specific for the three major structural proteins p150, p72, and p12. The specificity of some monoclonal antibodies for the structural proteins p150 and p37 and the nonstructural proteins p220 and p60 indicated that proteins p150 and p220 are antigenically related to proteins p37 and p60. The association of some viral antigens to specific subcellular components was determined by immunofluorescence and analysis of the binding of monoclonal antibodies to infected cells. A host protein (p24) seemed to be associated with the virus particles. Images PMID:3882998

Designing Pulse Laser Surface Modification of H13 Steel Using Response Surface Method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aqida, S. N.; Brabazon, D.; Naher, S.

2011-01-01

This paper presents a design of experiment (DOE) for laser surface modification process of AISI H13 tool steel in achieving the maximum hardness and minimum surface roughness at a range of modified layer depth. A Rofin DC-015 diffusion-cooled CO2 slab laser was used to process AISI H13 tool steel samples. Samples of 10 mm diameter were sectioned to 100 mm length in order to process a predefined circumferential area. The parameters selected for examination were laser peak power, overlap percentage and pulse repetition frequency (PRF). The response surface method with Box-Behnken design approach in Design Expert 7 software was used to design the H13 laser surface modification process. Metallographic study and image analysis were done to measure the modified layer depth. The modified surface roughness was measured using two-dimensional surface profilometer. The correlation of the three laser processing parameters and the modified surface properties was specified by plotting three-dimensional graph. The hardness properties were tested at 981 mN force. From metallographic study, the laser modified surface depth was between 37 μm and 150 μm. The average surface roughness recorded from the 2D profilometry was at a minimum value of 1.8 μm. The maximum hardness achieved was between 728 and 905 HV0.1. These findings are significant to modern development of hard coatings for wear resistant applications.

Covalent modification of proteins by cocaine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deng, Shi-Xian; Bharat, Narine; Fischman, Marian C.; Landry, Donald W.

2002-03-01

Cocaine covalently modifies proteins through a reaction in which the methyl ester of cocaine acylates the -amino group of lysine residues. This reaction is highly specific in vitro, because no other amino acid reacts with cocaine, and only cocaine's methyl ester reacts with the lysine side chain. Covalently modified proteins were present in the plasma of rats and human subjects chronically exposed to cocaine. Modified endogenous proteins are immunogenic, and specific antibodies were elicited in mouse and detected in the plasma of human subjects. Covalent modification of proteins could explain cocaine's autoimmune effects and provide a new biochemical approach to cocaine's long-term actions.

Enzymatically Modified Starch Ameliorates Postprandial Serum Triglycerides and Lipid Metabolome in Growing Pigs.

PubMed

Metzler-Zebeli, Barbara U; Eberspächer, Eva; Grüll, Dietmar; Kowalczyk, Lidia; Molnar, Timea; Zebeli, Qendrim

2015-01-01

Developing host digestion-resistant starches to promote human health is of great research interest. Chemically modified starches (CMS) are widely used in processed foods and although the modification of the starch molecule allows specific reduction in digestibility, the metabolic effects of CMS have been less well described. This short-term study evaluated the impact of enzymatically modified starch (EMS) on fasting and postprandial profiles of blood glucose, insulin and lipids, and serum metabolome in growing pigs. Eight jugular-vein catheterized pigs (initial body weight, 37.4 kg; 4 months of age) were fed 2 diets containing 72% purified starch (EMS or waxy corn starch (control)) in a cross-over design for 7 days. On day 8, an 8-hour meal tolerance test (MTT) was performed with serial blood samplings. Besides biochemical analysis, serum was analysed for 201 metabolites through targeted mass spectrometry-based metabolomic approaches. Pigs fed the EMS diet showed increased (P<0.05) immediate serum insulin and plasma glucose response compared to pigs fed the control diet; however, area-under-the-curves for insulin and glucose were not different among diets. Results from MTT indicated reduced postprandial serum triglycerides with EMS versus control diet (P<0.05). Likewise, serum metabolome profiling identified characteristic changes in glycerophospholipid, lysophospholipids, sphingomyelins and amino acid metabolome profiles with EMS diet compared to control diet. Results showed rapid adaptations of blood metabolites to dietary starch shifts within 7 days. In conclusion, EMS ingestion showed potential to attenuate postprandial raise in serum lipids and suggested constant alteration in the synthesis or breakdown of sphingolipids and phospholipids which might be a health benefit of EMS consumption. Because serum insulin was not lowered, more research is warranted to reveal possible underlying mechanisms behind the observed changes in the profile of serum lipid metabolome in response to EMS consumption.

Enzymatically Modified Starch Ameliorates Postprandial Serum Triglycerides and Lipid Metabolome in Growing Pigs

PubMed Central

Metzler-Zebeli, Barbara U.; Eberspächer, Eva; Grüll, Dietmar; Kowalczyk, Lidia; Molnar, Timea; Zebeli, Qendrim

2015-01-01

Developing host digestion-resistant starches to promote human health is of great research interest. Chemically modified starches (CMS) are widely used in processed foods and although the modification of the starch molecule allows specific reduction in digestibility, the metabolic effects of CMS have been less well described. This short-term study evaluated the impact of enzymatically modified starch (EMS) on fasting and postprandial profiles of blood glucose, insulin and lipids, and serum metabolome in growing pigs. Eight jugular-vein catheterized pigs (initial body weight, 37.4 kg; 4 months of age) were fed 2 diets containing 72% purified starch (EMS or waxy corn starch (control)) in a cross-over design for 7 days. On day 8, an 8-hour meal tolerance test (MTT) was performed with serial blood samplings. Besides biochemical analysis, serum was analysed for 201 metabolites through targeted mass spectrometry-based metabolomic approaches. Pigs fed the EMS diet showed increased (P<0.05) immediate serum insulin and plasma glucose response compared to pigs fed the control diet; however, area-under-the-curves for insulin and glucose were not different among diets. Results from MTT indicated reduced postprandial serum triglycerides with EMS versus control diet (P<0.05). Likewise, serum metabolome profiling identified characteristic changes in glycerophospholipid, lysophospholipids, sphingomyelins and amino acid metabolome profiles with EMS diet compared to control diet. Results showed rapid adaptations of blood metabolites to dietary starch shifts within 7 days. In conclusion, EMS ingestion showed potential to attenuate postprandial raise in serum lipids and suggested constant alteration in the synthesis or breakdown of sphingolipids and phospholipids which might be a health benefit of EMS consumption. Because serum insulin was not lowered, more research is warranted to reveal possible underlying mechanisms behind the observed changes in the profile of serum lipid metabolome in response to EMS consumption. PMID:26076487

Hyaluronic acid-modified zirconium phosphate nanoparticles for potential lung cancer therapy.

PubMed

Li, Ranwei; Liu, Tiecheng; Wang, Ke

2017-02-01

Novel tumor-targeting zirconium phosphate (ZP) nanoparticles modified with hyaluronic acid (HA) were developed (HA-ZP), with the aim of combining the drug-loading property of ZP and the tumor-targeting ability of HA to construct a tumor-targeting paclitaxel (PTX) delivery system for potential lung cancer therapy. The experimental results indicated that PTX loading into the HA-ZP nanoparticles was as high as 20.36%±4.37%, which is favorable for cancer therapy. PTX-loaded HA-ZP nanoparticles increased the accumulation of PTX in A549 lung cancer cells via HA-mediated endocytosis and exhibited superior anticancer activity in vitro. In vivo anticancer efficacy assay revealed that HA-ZP nanoparticles possessed preferable anticancer abilities, which exhibited minimized toxic side effects of PTX and strong tumor-suppression potential in clinical application.

Investigation of endogenous soybean food allergens by using a 2-dimensional gel electrophoresis approach.

PubMed

Rouquié, David; Capt, Annabelle; Eby, William H; Sekar, Vaithilingam; Hérouet-Guicheney, Corinne

2010-12-01

As part of the safety assessment of genetically modified (GM) soybean, 2-dimensional gel electrophoresis analyses were performed with the isoxaflutole and glyphosate tolerant soybean FG72, its non-GM near-isogenic counterpart (Jack) and three commercial non-GM soybean lines. The objective was to compare the known endogenous human food allergens in seeds in the five different soybean lines in order to evaluate any potential unintended effect(s) of the genetic modification. In total, 37 protein spots representing five well known soybean food allergen groups were quantified in each genotype. Qualitatively, all the allergenic proteins were detected in the different genetic backgrounds. Quantitatively, among 37 protein spots, the levels of accumulation of three allergens were slightly lower in the GM soybean than in the non-GM counterparts. Specifically, while the levels of two of these three allergens fell within the normal range of variation observed in the four non-GM varieties, the level of the third allergen was slightly below the normal range. Overall, there was no significant increase in the level of allergens in FG72 soybean seeds. Therefore, the FG72 soybean can be considered as safe as its non-GM counterpart with regards to endogenous allergenicity. Additional research is needed to evaluate the biological variability in the levels of endogenous soybean allergens and the correlation between level of allergens and allergenic potential in order to improve the interpretation of these data in the safety assessment of GM soybean context. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Comparison of a Broad-Based Screen versus Disorder-Specific Screen in Detecting Young Children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wiggins, Lisa D; Piazza, Vivian; Robins, Diana L

2014-01-01

The goals of our study were to (a) compare agreement between autism spectrum disorder diagnosis and outcome of the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers and Parents Evaluation of Developmental Status in a sample of toddlers and (b) examine specific concerns noted for toddlers who screened negative on the Modified Checklist for Autism in…

Amplified QCM biosensor for type IV collagenase based on collagenase-cleavage of gold nanoparticles functionalized peptide.

PubMed

Dong, Zong-Mu; Jin, Xin; Zhao, Guang-Chao

2018-05-30

The present study develops a rapid, simple and efficient method for the determination of type IV collagenase by using a specific peptide-modified quartz crystal microbalance (QCM). A small peptide (P1), contains a specific sequence (Pro-Gly) and a terminal cysteine, was synthetized and immobilized to the surface of QCM electrode via the reaction between Au and thiol of the cysteine. The peptide bond between proline and glycine can be specific hydrolyzed cleavage by type IV collagenase, which enabled the modified electrode with a high selectivity toward type IV collagenase. The cleaving process caused a frequency change of QCM to give a signal related to the concentration of type IV collagenase. The morphologies of the modified electrodes were characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and the specific hydrolyzed cleavage process was monitored by QCM. When P1 was modified with gold nanoparticles (P1-Au NPs), the signal could be amplified to further enhance the sensitivity of the designed sensor due to the high-mass of the modified Au NPs. Compared the direct unamplified assay, the values obtained for the limit of detection for type IV collagenase was 0.96 ng mL -1 , yielding about 6.5 times of magnitude improvement in sensitivity. This signal enhanced peptide based QCM biosensor for type IV collagenase also showed good selectivity and sensitivity in complex matrix. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

42 CFR 37.100 - Coal mine operator plan for medical examinations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 42 Public Health 1 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Coal mine operator plan for medical examinations... MEDICAL CARE AND EXAMINATIONS SPECIFICATIONS FOR MEDICAL EXAMINATIONS OF COAL MINERS General Requirements § 37.100 Coal mine operator plan for medical examinations. (a) Each coal mine operator must submit and...

Clinical and radiological features of Marchiafava–Bignami disease

PubMed Central

Dong, Xiaoyu; Bai, Chaobo; Nao, Jianfei

2018-01-01

Abstract Marchiafava–Bignami disease (MBD) is a rare neurological disease usually associated with chronic alcoholism and characterized by demyelination and necrosis. Our aims were to describe the clinicoradiological features and identify factors that may affect the prognosis of patients with MBD. We examined clinical manifestations, laboratory results, and neuroradiological features of 9 patients with MBD. The patients were classified into 2 subgroups (favorable and poor outcome subgroups) based on the Modified Oxford Handicap Scale (MOSH). In addition, we compared the clinical and neuroimaging features between the 2 subgroups. Nine adult male patients (age of onset range 37–62 years, with a mean age of 47.00 ± 14.50 years) were included in this study. According to MOSH, 4 patients were placed in the poor outcome subgroup (MOHS ≥ 3), 5 patients were placed in the favorable outcome subgroup (MOHS ≤ 2). Relatively high score of MAST-C (≥6) (P = .008), extracallosal lesions (P = .048), GCS (P = .026), cerebral lobe impairment (P = .048) was significantly more common in the poor outcome subgroup. Clinical manifestations of MBD are variable and lack specificity. Early diagnosis by relatively specific performance of bisymmetric lesions in corpus callosum of diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) may affect the prognosis. The prognosis of patients with severe disturbance of consciousness, heavy alcohol consumption, extracallosal lesions, cerebral lobe impairment is probably unfavorable. PMID:29384842

Association between disease-specific quality-of-life and magnetic resonance imaging outcomes in a clinical trial of prolotherapy for knee osteoarthritis

PubMed Central

Rabago, David; Kijowski, Richard; Woods, Michael; Patterson, Jeffrey J.; Mundt, Marlon; Zgierska, Aleksandra; Grettie, Jessica; Lyftogt, John; Fortney, Luke

2013-01-01

Objective To assess the relationship between knee osteoarthritis (KOA)-specific quality-of-life (QoL) and intra-articular cartilage volume (CV) in participants treated with prolotherapy. KOA is characterized by CV loss and multifactorial pain. Prolotherapy is an injection therapy reported to improve KOA-related QoL compared to blinded saline injections and at-home exercise but the mechanism of action is unknown. Design Two-arm (Prolotherapy, Control), partially blinded, controlled trial. Setting Outpatient. Participants 37 adults with ≥3 months of symptomatic KOA. Intervention Prolotherapy: 5 monthly injection sessions; Control: blinded saline injections or at-home exercise. Outcome Measures Primary: KOA-specific QoL scores (baseline, 5, 9, 12, 26, 52 weeks; Western Ontario McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index, WOMAC). Secondary: KOA-specific pain, stiffness, function (WOMAC subscales), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-assessed CV (baseline, 52 weeks). Results Knee-specific QoL improvement among Prolotherapy participants exceeded that of Controls (17.6±3.2 versus 8.6±5.0 points, p=0.05) at 52 weeks. Both groups lost CV over time (p<0.05); no between-group differences were noted (p=0.98). While Prolotherapy participants lost CV at varying rates, those who lost the least CV (“Stable CV”) had the greatest improvement in pain scores. Among Prolotherapy, but not Control participants, the change in CV and the change in pain (but not stiffness or function) scores were correlated; each 1% CV loss was associated with 2.7% less improvement in pain score (p<0.05). Conclusions Prolotherapy resulted in safe, substantial improvement in KOA-specific QoL compared to Control over 52-weeks. Among prolotherapy participants, but not Controls, MRI-assessed CV change (CV stability) predicted pain severity score change, suggesting prolotherapy may have pain-specific disease-modifying effect. Further research is warranted. PMID:23850615

Cell mediated immunity cross-reactions of mycobacteria: polymorphism of target bacterial antigens.

PubMed Central

Kulkarni, S; Hattikudur, S; Kamat, R S

1986-01-01

Swiss white mice were immunized with different mycobacteria and delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH) responses were studied by the foot-pad swelling technique of Gray and Jennings (1955). Extensive cross-reactions in DTH, outside the limits of Runyon's groups were observed. As a general trend slow growing mycobacteria showed greater cross-reactivity with slow growers than with rapid growers and vice versa. The implied cross-protective significance of DTH cross-reactions was further confirmed by demonstration of the ability of DTH cross-reacting sonicates to generate activated macrophages in M. avium immunized mice. An antiserum was raised against the earlier reported DTH eliciting antigen of M. tuberculosis H37Rv (DTH-H37Rv). The sero-reactivity of anti-DTH-H37Rv against the sonicates of different mycobacteria was studied with the objective of investigating the molecular basis of DTH cross-reactivity. Immunoprecipitation reactions of different mycobacterial sonicates with anti-DTH-H37Rv showed that the antigen was shared by all the mycobacteria tested irrespective of their cross-reactivity in a DTH response. All of the slow growers showed reactions of total identity with DTH-H37Rv. However with rapid growers DTH-H37Rv showed only a partial identity. From these data it was concluded that an antigen participating in DTH response is shared by all mycobacteria and that it is polymorphous, having genus specific and group specific (as slow and rapid grower groups) determinants. Images Fig. 2 PMID:3082545

Specificity and Modifiability of Cognitive Biases in Hypochondriasis

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gropalis, Maria; Bleichhardt, Gaby; Hiller, Wolfgang; Witthoft, Michael

2013-01-01

Objective: According to cognitive-behavioral models of hypochondriasis (HYP), biased attentional and memory processes related to health threat stimuli are crucial for the development and maintenance of severe health anxiety. Little is known about the specificity, temporal stability, and modifiability of these biases via psychotherapy. Method: In…

37 CFR 42.304 - Content of petition.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

...), the construction of the claim must identify the specific portions of the specification that describe... A and C of this part, a petition must request judgment against one or more claims of a patent... for each claim challenged. The statement must identify the following: (1) The claim; (2) The specific...

37 CFR 42.304 - Content of petition.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

...), the construction of the claim must identify the specific portions of the specification that describe... A and C of this part, a petition must request judgment against one or more claims of a patent... for each claim challenged. The statement must identify the following: (1) The claim; (2) The specific...

Processes for producing polyhydroxybutyrate and related polyhydroxyalkanoates in the plastids of higher plants

DOEpatents

Somerville, C.R.; Nawrath, C.; Poirier, Y.

1997-03-11

The present invention relates to a process for producing poly-D-(-)-3-hydroxybutyric acid (PHB) and related polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) in the plastids of plants. The production of PHB is accomplished by genetically transforming plants with modified genes from microorganisms. The genes encode the enzymes required to synthesize PHB from acetyl-CoA or related metabolites and are fused with additional plant sequences for targeting the enzymes to the plastid. 37 figs.

Inhibition of ovarian cancer cell proliferation by a cell cycle inhibitory peptide fused to a thermally responsive polypeptide carrier.

PubMed

Massodi, Iqbal; Moktan, Shama; Rawat, Aruna; Bidwell, Gene L; Raucher, Drazen

2010-01-15

Current treatment of solid tumors is limited by normal tissue tolerance, resulting in a narrow therapeutic index. To increase drug specificity and efficacy and to reduce toxicity in normal tissues, we have developed a polypeptide carrier for a cell cycle inhibitory peptide, which has the potential to be thermally targeted to the tumor site. The design of this polypeptide is based on elastin-like polypeptide (ELP). The coding sequence of ELP was modified by the addition of the cell penetrating peptide Bac-7 at the N-terminus and a 23 amino acid peptide derived from p21 at the C-terminus (Bac-ELP1-p21). Bac-ELP1-p21 is soluble in aqueous solutions below physiological temperature (37 degrees C) but aggregates when the temperature is raised above 39 degrees C, making it a promising thermally responsive therapeutic carrier that may be actively targeted to solid tumors by application of focused hyperthermia. While Bac-ELP1-p21 at 37 degrees C did not have any effect on SKOV-3 cell proliferation, the use of hyperthermia increased the antiproliferative effect of Bac-ELP1-p21 compared with a thermally unresponsive control polypeptide. Bac-ELP1-p21 displayed both a cytoplasmic and nuclear distribution in the SKOV-3 cells, with nuclear-localized polypeptide enriched in the heated cells, as revealed by confocal microscopy. Using Western blotting, we show that Bac-ELP1-p21 caused a decrease in Rb phosphorylation levels in cells treated at 42 degrees C. The polypeptide also induced caspase activation, PARP cleavage, and cell cycle arrest in S-phase and G2/M-phase. These studies indicate that ELP is a promising macromolecular carrier for the delivery of cell cycle inhibitory peptides to solid tumors.

Bifunctional Coupling Agents for Radiolabeling of Biomolecules and Target-Specific Delivery of Metallic Radionuclides

PubMed Central

Liu, Shuang

2008-01-01

Receptor-based radiopharmaceuticals are of great current interest in early molecular imaging and radiotherapy of cancers, and provide a unique tool for target-specific delivery of radionuclides to the diseased tissues. In general, a target-specific radiopharmaceutical can be divided into four parts: targeting biomolecule (BM), pharmacokinetic modifying (PKM) linker, bifunctional coupling or chelating agent (BFC), and radionuclide. The targeting biomolecule serves as a “carrier” for specific delivery of the radionuclide. PKM linkers are used to modify radiotracer excretion kinetics. BFC is needed for radiolabeling of biomolecules with a metallic radionuclide. Different radiometals have significant difference in their coordination chemistry, and require BFCs with different donor atoms and chelator frameworks. Since the radiometal chelate can have a significant impact on physical and biological properties of the target-specific radiopharmaceutical, its excretion kinetics can be altered by modifying the coordination environment with various chelators or coligand, if needed. This review will focus on the design of BFCs and their coordination chemistry with technetium, copper, gallium, indium, yttrium and lanthanide radiometals. PMID:18538888

Sensory Topography of Oral Structures.

PubMed

Bearelly, Shethal; Cheung, Steven W

2017-01-01

Sensory function in the oral cavity and oropharynx is integral to effective deglutition and speech production. The main hurdle to evaluation of tactile consequences of upper aerodigestive tract diseases and treatments is access to a reliable clinical tool. We propose a rapid and reliable procedure to determine tactile thresholds using buckling monofilaments to advance care. To develop novel sensory testing monofilaments and map tactile thresholds of oral cavity and oropharyngeal structures. A prospective cross-sectional study of 37 healthy adults (12 men, 25 women), specifically without a medical history of head and neck surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy, was carried out in an academic tertiary medical center to capture normative data on tactile sensory function in oral structures. Cheung-Bearelly monofilaments were constructed by securing nylon monofilament sutures (2-0 through 9-0) in the lumen of 5-French ureteral catheters, exposing 20 mm for tapping action. Buckling force consistency was evaluated for 3 lots of each suture size. Sensory thresholds of 4 oral cavity and 2 oropharyngeal subsites in healthy participants (n = 37) were determined by classical signal detection methodology (d-prime ≥1). In 21 participants, test-retest reliability of sensory thresholds was evaluated. Separately in 16 participants, sensory thresholds determined by a modified staircase method were cross-validated with those obtained by classical signal detection. Buckling forces of successive suture sizes were distinct (P < .001), consistent (Cronbach α, 0.99), and logarithmically related (r = 0.99, P < .001). Test-retest reliability of sensory threshold determination was high (Cronbach α, >0.7). The lower lip, anterior tongue, and buccal mucosa were more sensitive than the soft palate, posterior tongue, and posterior pharyngeal wall (P < .001). Threshold determination by classical signal detection and modified staircase methods were highly correlated (r = 0.93, P < .001). Growth of perceptual intensity was logarithmically proportional to stimulus strength (P < .01). Topography of normal oral cavity and oropharyngeal tactile sensation is organized in accordance to decreasing sensitivity along the anteroposterior trajectory and growth of perceptual intensity at all subsites is log-linear. Cheung-Bearelly monofilaments are accessible, disposable, and consistent esthesiometers. This novel clinical tool is deployable for quantitative sensory function assessment of oral cavity and oropharyngeal structures.

Nanopore DNA sensors based on dendrimer-modified nanopipettes.

PubMed

Fu, Yaqin; Tokuhisa, Hideo; Baker, Lane A

2009-08-28

A dendrimer-modified nanopipette is used to detect hybridization of a specific DNA sequence through evaluation of the extent of rectification of ion currents observed in the measured current-voltage response.

Serum Metabolite Biomarkers Discriminate Healthy Smokers from COPD Smokers

PubMed Central

Chen, Qiuying; Deeb, Ruba S.; Ma, Yuliang; Staudt, Michelle R.; Crystal, Ronald G.; Gross, Steven S.

2015-01-01

COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) is defined by a fixed expiratory airflow obstruction associated with disordered airways and alveolar destruction. COPD is caused by cigarette smoking and is the third greatest cause of mortality in the US. Forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) is the only validated clinical marker of COPD, but it correlates poorly with clinical features and is not sensitive enough to predict the early onset of disease. Using LC/MS global untargeted metabolite profiling of serum samples from a well-defined cohort of healthy smokers (n = 37), COPD smokers (n = 41) and non-smokers (n = 37), we sought to discover serum metabolic markers with known and/or unknown molecular identities that are associated with early-onset COPD. A total of 1,181 distinct molecular ions were detected in 95% of sera from all study subjects and 23 were found to be differentially-expressed in COPD-smokers vs. healthy-smokers. These 23 putative biomarkers were differentially-correlated with lung function parameters and used to generate a COPD prediction model possessing 87.8% sensitivity and 86.5% specificity. In an independent validation set, this model correctly predicted COPD in 8/10 individuals. These serum biomarkers included myoinositol, glycerophopshoinositol, fumarate, cysteinesulfonic acid, a modified version of fibrinogen peptide B (mFBP), and three doubly-charged peptides with undefined sequence that significantly and positively correlate with mFBP levels. Together, elevated levels of serum mFBP and additional disease-associated biomarkers point to a role for chronic inflammation, thrombosis, and oxidative stress in remodeling of the COPD airways. Serum metabolite biomarkers offer a promising and accessible window for recognition of early-stage COPD. PMID:26674646

Oleyl group-functionalized insulating gate transistors for measuring extracellular pH of floating cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Imaizumi, Yuki; Goda, Tatsuro; Toya, Yutaro; Matsumoto, Akira; Miyahara, Yuji

2016-01-01

The extracellular ionic microenvironment has a close relationship to biological activities such as by cellular respiration, cancer development, and immune response. A system composed of ion-sensitive field-effect transistors (ISFET), cells, and program-controlled fluidics has enabled the acquisition of real-time information about the integrity of the cell membrane via pH measurement. Here we aimed to extend this system toward floating cells such as T lymphocytes for investigating complement activation and pharmacokinetics through alternations in the plasma membrane integrity. We functionalized the surface of tantalum oxide gate insulator of ISFET with oleyl-tethered phosphonic acid for interacting with the plasma membranes of floating cells without affecting the cell signaling. The surface modification was characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and water contact angle measurements. The Nernst response of -37.8 mV/pH was obtained for the surface-modified ISFET at 37 °C. The oleyl group-functionalized gate insulator successfully captured Jurkat T cells in a fluidic condition without acute cytotoxicity. The system was able to record the time course of pH changes at the cells/ISFET interface during the process of instant addition and withdrawal of ammonium chloride. Further, the plasma membrane injury of floating cells after exposure by detergent Triton™ X-100 was successfully determined using the modified ISFET with enhanced sensitivity as compared with conventional hemolysis assays.

Improved algorithms in the CE-QUAL-W2 water-quality model for blending dam releases to meet downstream water-temperature targets

USGS Publications Warehouse

Rounds, Stewart A.; Buccola, Norman L.

2015-01-01

Water-quality models allow water resource professionals to examine conditions under an almost unlimited variety of potential future scenarios. The two-dimensional (longitudinal, vertical) water-quality model CE-QUAL-W2, version 3.7, was enhanced and augmented with new features to help dam operators and managers explore and optimize potential solutions for temperature management downstream of thermally stratified reservoirs. Such temperature management often is accomplished by blending releases from multiple dam outlets that access water of different temperatures at different depths. The modified blending algorithm in version 3.7 of CE-QUAL-W2 allows the user to specify a time-series of target release temperatures, designate from 2 to 10 floating or fixed-elevation outlets for blending, impose minimum and maximum head and flow constraints for any blended outlet, and set priority designations for each outlet that allow the model to choose which outlets to use and how to balance releases among them. The modified model was tested with a variety of examples and against a previously calibrated model of Detroit Lake on the North Santiam River in northwestern Oregon, and the results compared well. These updates to the blending algorithms will allow more complicated dam-operation scenarios to be evaluated somewhat automatically with the model, with decreased need for multiple model runs or preprocessing of model inputs to fully characterize the operational constraints.

Oleyl group-functionalized insulating gate transistors for measuring extracellular pH of floating cells

PubMed Central

Imaizumi, Yuki; Goda, Tatsuro; Toya, Yutaro; Matsumoto, Akira; Miyahara, Yuji

2016-01-01

Abstract The extracellular ionic microenvironment has a close relationship to biological activities such as by cellular respiration, cancer development, and immune response. A system composed of ion-sensitive field-effect transistors (ISFET), cells, and program-controlled fluidics has enabled the acquisition of real-time information about the integrity of the cell membrane via pH measurement. Here we aimed to extend this system toward floating cells such as T lymphocytes for investigating complement activation and pharmacokinetics through alternations in the plasma membrane integrity. We functionalized the surface of tantalum oxide gate insulator of ISFET with oleyl-tethered phosphonic acid for interacting with the plasma membranes of floating cells without affecting the cell signaling. The surface modification was characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and water contact angle measurements. The Nernst response of −37.8 mV/pH was obtained for the surface-modified ISFET at 37 °C. The oleyl group-functionalized gate insulator successfully captured Jurkat T cells in a fluidic condition without acute cytotoxicity. The system was able to record the time course of pH changes at the cells/ISFET interface during the process of instant addition and withdrawal of ammonium chloride. Further, the plasma membrane injury of floating cells after exposure by detergent Triton™ X-100 was successfully determined using the modified ISFET with enhanced sensitivity as compared with conventional hemolysis assays. PMID:27877886

[Effects of Electroaupuncture Stimulation of "Xiajuxu" (ST 39), etc. on Duodenal Mucosal Injury, Serum Pro-inflammatory Factors Levels and Duodenal Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor alpha 7 Expression in Duodenal Ulcer Rats].

PubMed

Ling, Xi; Zhang, Hong; Yi, Xi-qin; Wu, Jin-feng

2016-04-01

To observe the relatively specific effect of electroacupuncture (EA) of "Xiajuxu" (ST 39, the lower hesea paint of the small intestine), etc. on the level of serum TNF-alpha, lnterleukin-1 P (IL-1 P) and high mobility group protein B 1 (HMGB 1) contents, and duodenum a7 nicotinic acetyicholine receptor (nAchR) expression in duodenal ulcer rats, so as to explore its mechanisms underlying improving duodenal ulcer. Sixty SD rats were randomly divided into 6 groups: normal control, model, Xiajuxu (ST 39), Zusanli (ST 36), Shangjuxu (ST 37) and Yanglingquan (GB 34). The duodenal ulcer model was established by subcutaneous injection of 10% Cysteamine Hydrochloride (300 mg/kg), following by giving the rats with access to water containing Cysteamine. EA (10 Hz/50 Hz, 1- 3 mA) was applied to bilateral ST 39, ST 36, ST 37 and GB 34 for 30 min, once daily for 10 days. The ulcer scores (0-5 points) of the duodenal mucosa were assessed according to modified Moraes' methods. Serum TNF-alpha, IL-1 beta and HMGB 1 levels were assayed by ELISA and the expression of neuronal a7 nAchR in the duodenal tissue was detected by Western blot. After modeling, the ulcer score, serum TNF-alpha, IL-i p and HMGB 1 contents were significantly increased (P<0.01) and the expression level of a7 nAchR in the duodenal tissue was significantly down- regulated in comparison with the normal control group (P<0.01). Following EA intervention, the serum TNF-alpha and HMGB 1 con- tents in the Xiajuxu(ST 39), Zusanli (ST 36), Shangjuxu (ST 37) and Yanglingquan (GB 34) groups, and the ulcer scores and IL-1 beta content of the Xiajuxu(ST 39), Zusanli (ST 36) and Shangjuxu (ST 37) groups were considerably reduced, and the expression of alpha7 nAchR in both Xiajuxu (ST 39) and Zusanli (ST 36) groups was evidently increased (P<0.05, P<0.0.1). No significant changes were found in the ulcer score, serum IL-1 beta content, and a7 nAchR expression in the Yanglingquan (GB 34) group and a 7 nAchR expression in the Shangjuxu (ST 37) group in comparison with the model group (P>0.05). EA stimulation of ST 36, ST 37 and ST 39 can reduce ulcer injury in duodenal ulcer model rats, which may be associated with their effects in down-regulating serum TNF-alpha, IL-1 beta and HMGB 1 contents and up-regulating alpha7 nAchR expression of the duodenal tissue, possibly by suppressing immune and inflammatory reactions and regulating nicotinic activity.

Strong early seed-specific gene regulatory region

DOEpatents

Broun, Pierre; Somerville, Chris

1999-01-01

Nucleic acid sequences and methods for their use are described which provide for early seed-specific transcription, in order to modulate or modify expression of foreign or endogenous genes in seeds, particularly embryo cells. The method finds particular use in conjunction with modifying fatty acid production in seed tissue.

Strong early seed-specific gene regulatory region

DOEpatents

Broun, Pierre; Somerville, Chris

2002-01-01

Nucleic acid sequences and methods for their use are described which provide for early seed-specific transcription, in order to modulate or modify expression of foreign or endogenous genes in seeds, particularly embryo cells. The method finds particular use in conjunction with modifying fatty acid production in seed tissue.

Domain Specific Aspects of Locus of Control: Implications for Modifying Locus of Control Orientation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bradley, Robert H.; Gaa, John P.

1977-01-01

Goal-setting conferences were employed to improve LOC orientation for academic achievement situations among junior high school students (N=36). Results were interpreted as supporting domain-specific aspects of LOC. Results implied that educators can design programs to modify LOC orientation. (Author)

Modified Light Duty AM2 Capability Assessment

DTIC Science & Technology

The Modified Light -Duty AM2 matting was designed specifically for lightweight, remote-piloted aircraft (RPA) applications. An in- depth study was... Ratio (CBR) of 6. To understand the full potential of the Modified Light -Duty AM2, a full- scale evaluation was performed with contingency C-17 and...stir welding for use in fabrication of the lightweight RPA matting in conjunction with a full- scale test on the Modified Light -Duty AM2 matting system

Specific regulation of thermosensitive lipid droplet fusion by a nuclear hormone receptor pathway

PubMed Central

Li, Shiwei; Li, Qi; Kong, Yuanyuan; Wu, Shuang; Cui, Qingpo; Zhang, Mingming; Zhang, Shaobing O.

2017-01-01

Nuclear receptors play important roles in regulating fat metabolism and energy production in humans. The regulatory functions and endogenous ligands of many nuclear receptors are still unidentified, however. Here, we report that CYP-37A1 (ortholog of human cytochrome P450 CYP4V2), EMB-8 (ortholog of human P450 oxidoreductase POR), and DAF-12 (homolog of human nuclear receptors VDR/LXR) constitute a hormone synthesis and nuclear receptor pathway in Caenorhabditis elegans. This pathway specifically regulates the thermosensitive fusion of fat-storing lipid droplets. CYP-37A1, together with EMB-8, synthesizes a lipophilic hormone not identical to Δ7-dafachronic acid, which represses the fusion-promoting function of DAF-12. CYP-37A1 also negatively regulates thermotolerance and lifespan at high temperature in a DAF-12–dependent manner. Human CYP4V2 can substitute for CYP-37A1 in C. elegans. This finding suggests the existence of a conserved CYP4V2-POR–nuclear receptor pathway that functions in converting multilocular lipid droplets to unilocular ones in human cells; misregulation of this pathway may lead to pathogenic fat storage. PMID:28760992

Specific regulation of thermosensitive lipid droplet fusion by a nuclear hormone receptor pathway.

PubMed

Li, Shiwei; Li, Qi; Kong, Yuanyuan; Wu, Shuang; Cui, Qingpo; Zhang, Mingming; Zhang, Shaobing O

2017-08-15

Nuclear receptors play important roles in regulating fat metabolism and energy production in humans. The regulatory functions and endogenous ligands of many nuclear receptors are still unidentified, however. Here, we report that CYP-37A1 (ortholog of human cytochrome P450 CYP4V2), EMB-8 (ortholog of human P450 oxidoreductase POR), and DAF-12 (homolog of human nuclear receptors VDR/LXR) constitute a hormone synthesis and nuclear receptor pathway in Caenorhabditis elegans This pathway specifically regulates the thermosensitive fusion of fat-storing lipid droplets. CYP-37A1, together with EMB-8, synthesizes a lipophilic hormone not identical to Δ7-dafachronic acid, which represses the fusion-promoting function of DAF-12. CYP-37A1 also negatively regulates thermotolerance and lifespan at high temperature in a DAF-12-dependent manner. Human CYP4V2 can substitute for CYP-37A1 in C. elegans This finding suggests the existence of a conserved CYP4V2-POR-nuclear receptor pathway that functions in converting multilocular lipid droplets to unilocular ones in human cells; misregulation of this pathway may lead to pathogenic fat storage.

X-ray crystallographic analysis of adipocyte fatty acid binding protein (aP2) modified with 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal

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

Hellberg, Kristina; Grimsrud, Paul A.; Kruse, Andrew C.

2012-07-11

Fatty acid binding proteins (FABP) have been characterized as facilitating the intracellular solubilization and transport of long-chain fatty acyl carboxylates via noncovalent interactions. More recent work has shown that the adipocyte FABP is also covalently modified in vivo on Cys117 with 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-HNE), a bioactive aldehyde linked to oxidative stress and inflammation. To evaluate 4-HNE binding and modification, the crystal structures of adipocyte FABP covalently and noncovalently bound to 4-HNE have been solved to 1.9 {angstrom} and 2.3 {angstrom} resolution, respectively. While the 4-HNE in the noncovalently modified protein is coordinated similarly to a carboxylate of a fatty acid, themore » covalent form show a novel coordination through a water molecule at the polar end of the lipid. Other defining features between the two structures with 4-HNE and previously solved structures of the protein include a peptide flip between residues Ala36 and Lys37 and the rotation of the side chain of Phe57 into its closed conformation. Representing the first structure of an endogenous target protein covalently modified by 4-HNE, these results define a new class of in vivo ligands for FABPs and extend their physiological substrates to include bioactive aldehydes.« less

Cytotoxicity of modified nonequilibrium plasma with chlorhexidine digluconate on primary cultured human gingival fibroblasts.

PubMed

Chen, Hui; Shi, Qi; Qing, Ying; Yao, Yi-chen; Cao, Ying-guang

2016-02-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the cytotoxicity of modified nonequilibrium plasma with chlorhexidine digluconate (CHX) on human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs), and to evaluate the biosecurity of modified nonequilibrium plasma with 2% CHX as a new method of root canal treatment. Tissue samples taken from human gingiva were primarily cultured and passaged. Cells from passages 3-7 were used. HGFs were treated by modified nonequilibrium plasma with 2% CHX for 0 min (control group), 30 s, 1 min, 1.5 min, 3 min, 5 min, and 10 min, respectively, and then they were incubated for 0, 24, and 48 h. After that, cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay was applied to analyze the cytotoxicity of modified nonequilibrium plasma with 2% CHX on HGFs. There was no significant difference between the 0 h group treated with the modified nonequilibrium plasma for 1 min and the control group (P>0.05). However, there were significant differences between all the other treated groups and the control group (P<0.05). When treated for 1.5 min or shorter, the cell viability was obviously increased; while treated for 3 min or longer, it was obviously reduced. Moreover, when successively cultured for 0, 24, and 48 h, cell viability was decreased at first and then increased in the 3-min-treated and 5-min-treated groups. The modified nonequilibrium plasma with 2% CHX was of no influence on cell viability in 1.5 min treatment, and it could be safely used on root canal treatment.

Event specific qualitative and quantitative polymerase chain reaction detection of genetically modified MON863 maize based on the 5'-transgene integration sequence.

PubMed

Yang, Litao; Xu, Songci; Pan, Aihu; Yin, Changsong; Zhang, Kewei; Wang, Zhenying; Zhou, Zhigang; Zhang, Dabing

2005-11-30

Because of the genetically modified organisms (GMOs) labeling policies issued in many countries and areas, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods were developed for the execution of GMO labeling policies, such as screening, gene specific, construct specific, and event specific PCR detection methods, which have become a mainstay of GMOs detection. The event specific PCR detection method is the primary trend in GMOs detection because of its high specificity based on the flanking sequence of the exogenous integrant. This genetically modified maize, MON863, contains a Cry3Bb1 coding sequence that produces a protein with enhanced insecticidal activity against the coleopteran pest, corn rootworm. In this study, the 5'-integration junction sequence between the host plant DNA and the integrated gene construct of the genetically modified maize MON863 was revealed by means of thermal asymmetric interlaced-PCR, and the specific PCR primers and TaqMan probe were designed based upon the revealed 5'-integration junction sequence; the conventional qualitative PCR and quantitative TaqMan real-time PCR detection methods employing these primers and probes were successfully developed. In conventional qualitative PCR assay, the limit of detection (LOD) was 0.1% for MON863 in 100 ng of maize genomic DNA for one reaction. In the quantitative TaqMan real-time PCR assay, the LOD and the limit of quantification were eight and 80 haploid genome copies, respectively. In addition, three mixed maize samples with known MON863 contents were detected using the established real-time PCR systems, and the ideal results indicated that the established event specific real-time PCR detection systems were reliable, sensitive, and accurate.

Hyaluronic Acid-Based pH-Sensitive Polymer-Modified Liposomes for Cell-Specific Intracellular Drug Delivery Systems.

PubMed

Miyazaki, Maiko; Yuba, Eiji; Hayashi, Hiroshi; Harada, Atsushi; Kono, Kenji

2018-01-17

For the enhancement of therapeutic effects and reduction of side effects derived from anticancer drugs in cancer chemotherapy, it is imperative to develop drug delivery systems with cancer-specificity and controlled release function inside cancer cells. pH-sensitive liposomes are useful as an intracellular drug delivery system because of their abilities to transfer their contents into the cell interior through fusion or destabilization of endosome, which has weakly acidic environment. We earlier reported liposomes modified with various types of pH-sensitive polymers based on synthetic polymers and biopolymers as vehicles for intracellular drug delivery systems. In this study, hyaluronic acid (HA)-based pH-sensitive polymers were designed as multifunctional polymers having not only pH-sensitivity but also targeting properties to cells expressing CD44, which is known as a cancer cell surface marker. Carboxyl group-introduced HA derivatives of two types, MGlu-HA and CHex-HA, which have a more hydrophobic side chain structure than that of MGlu-HA, were synthesized by reaction with various dicarboxylic anhydrides. These polymer-modified liposomes were stable at neutral pH, but showed content release under weakly acidic conditions. CHex-HA-modified liposomes delivered their contents into CD44-expressing cells more efficiently than HA-modified or MGlu-HA-modified liposomes or unmodified liposomes, whereas the same liposomes were taken up only slightly by cells expressing CD44 proteins less. Competition assay using free HA or other polymers revealed that HA derivative-modified liposomes might be recognized by CD44. Therefore, HA-derivative-modified liposomes are useful as cell-specific intracellular drug delivery systems.

Uncertainty of Passive Imager Cloud Optical Property Retrievals to Instrument Radiometry and Model Assumptions: Examples from MODIS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Platnick, Steven; Wind, Galina; Meyer, Kerry; Amarasinghe, Nandana; Arnold, G. Thomas; Zhang, Zhibo; King, Michael D.

2013-01-01

The optical and microphysical structure of clouds is of fundamental importance for understanding a variety of cloud radiation and precipitation processes. With the advent of MODIS on the NASA EOS Terra and Aqua platforms, simultaneous global-daily 1 km retrievals of cloud optical thickness (COT) and effective particle radius (CER) are provided, as well as the derived water path (WP). The cloud product (MOD06/MYD06 for MODIS Terra and Aqua, respectively) provides separate retrieval datasets for various two-channel retrievals, typically a VISNIR channel paired with a 1.6, 2.1, and 3.7 m spectral channel. The MOD06 forward model is derived from on a homogeneous plane-parallel cloud. In Collection 5 processing (completed in 2007 with a modified Collection 5.1 completed in 2010), pixel-level retrieval uncertainties were calculated for the following non-3-D error sources: radiometry, surface spectral albedo, and atmospheric corrections associated with model analysis uncertainties (water vapor only). The latter error source includes error correlation across the retrieval spectral channels. Estimates of uncertainty in 1 aggregated (Level-3) means were also provided assuming unity correlation between error sources for all pixels in a grid for a single day, and zero correlation of error sources from one day to the next. I n Collection 6 (expected to begin in late summer 2013) we expanded the uncertainty analysis to include: (a) scene-dependent calibration uncertainty that depends on new band and detector-specific Level 1B uncertainties, (b) new model error sources derived from the look-up tables which includes sensitivities associated with wind direction over the ocean and uncertainties in liquid water and ice effective variance, (c) thermal emission uncertainties in the 3.7 m band associated with cloud and surface temperatures that are needed to extract reflected solar radiation from the total radiance signal, (d) uncertainty in the solar spectral irradiance at 3.7 m, and (e) addition of stratospheric ozone uncertainty in visible atmospheric corrections. A summary of the approach and example Collection 6 results will be shown.

Uncertainty of passive imager cloud retrievals to instrument radiometry and model assumptions: Examples from MODIS Collection 6

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Platnick, S.; Wind, G.; Amarasinghe, N.; Arnold, G. T.; Zhang, Z.; Meyer, K.; King, M. D.

2013-12-01

The optical and microphysical structure of clouds is of fundamental importance for understanding a variety of cloud radiation and precipitation processes. With the advent of MODIS on the NASA EOS Terra and Aqua platforms, simultaneous global/daily 1km retrievals of cloud optical thickness (COT) and effective particle radius (CER) are provided, as well as the derived water path (WP). The cloud product (MOD06/MYD06 for MODIS Terra and Aqua, respectively) provides separate retrieval datasets for various two-channel retrievals, typically a VIS/NIR channel paired with a 1.6, 2.1, and 3.7 μm spectral channel. The MOD06 forward model is derived from a homogeneous plane-parallel cloud. In Collection 5 processing (completed in 2007 with a modified Collection 5.1 completed in 2010), pixel-level retrieval uncertainties were calculated for the following non-3-D error sources: radiometry, surface spectral albedo, and atmospheric corrections associated with model analysis uncertainties (water vapor only). The latter error source includes error correlation across the retrieval spectral channels. Estimates of uncertainty in 1° aggregated (Level-3) means were also provided assuming unity correlation between error sources for all pixels in a grid for a single day, and zero correlation of error sources from one day to the next. In Collection 6 (expected to begin in late summer 2013) we expanded the uncertainty analysis to include: (a) scene-dependent calibration uncertainty that depends on new band and detector-specific Level 1B uncertainties, (b) new model error sources derived from the look-up tables which includes sensitivities associated with wind direction over the ocean and uncertainties in liquid water and ice effective variance, (c) thermal emission uncertainties in the 3.7 μm band associated with cloud and surface temperatures that are needed to extract reflected solar radiation from the total radiance signal, (d) uncertainty in the solar spectral irradiance at 3.7 μm, and (e) addition of stratospheric ozone uncertainty in visible atmospheric corrections. A summary of the approach and example Collection 6 results will be shown.

40 CFR 721.10044 - Metal oxide, modified with alkyl and vinyl terminated polysiloxanes (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 31 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Metal oxide, modified with alkyl and... SUBSTANCES Significant New Uses for Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10044 Metal oxide, modified with alkyl... to reporting. (1) The chemical substance identified generically as metal oxide, modified with alkyl...

40 CFR 721.8658 - Modified polymer of vinyl acetate and quaternary ammonium compound (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 30 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Modified polymer of vinyl acetate and... Significant New Uses for Specific Chemical Substances § 721.8658 Modified polymer of vinyl acetate and.... (1) The chemical substance identified generically as modified polymer of vinyl acetate and quaternary...

40 CFR 721.8658 - Modified polymer of vinyl acetate and quaternary ammonium compound (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 31 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Modified polymer of vinyl acetate and... Significant New Uses for Specific Chemical Substances § 721.8658 Modified polymer of vinyl acetate and.... (1) The chemical substance identified generically as modified polymer of vinyl acetate and quaternary...

40 CFR 721.8658 - Modified polymer of vinyl acetate and quaternary ammonium compound (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 32 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Modified polymer of vinyl acetate and... Significant New Uses for Specific Chemical Substances § 721.8658 Modified polymer of vinyl acetate and.... (1) The chemical substance identified generically as modified polymer of vinyl acetate and quaternary...

40 CFR 721.8658 - Modified polymer of vinyl acetate and quaternary ammonium compound (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 31 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Modified polymer of vinyl acetate and... Significant New Uses for Specific Chemical Substances § 721.8658 Modified polymer of vinyl acetate and.... (1) The chemical substance identified generically as modified polymer of vinyl acetate and quaternary...

40 CFR 721.8658 - Modified polymer of vinyl acetate and quaternary ammonium compound (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 32 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Modified polymer of vinyl acetate and... Significant New Uses for Specific Chemical Substances § 721.8658 Modified polymer of vinyl acetate and.... (1) The chemical substance identified generically as modified polymer of vinyl acetate and quaternary...

Evaluation of an expanded case definition for vaccine-modified measles in a school outbreak in South Korea in 2010.

PubMed

Choe, Young June; Hu, Jae Kyung; Song, Kyung Min; Cho, Heeyeon; Yoon, Hee Sook; Kim, Seung Tae; Lee, Han Jung; Kim, Kisoon; Bae, Geun-Ryang; Lee, Jong-Koo

2012-01-01

In this study, we have described the clinical characteristics of vaccine-modified measles to assess the performance of an expanded case definition in a school outbreak that occurred in 2010. The sensitivity, specificity, and the positive and negative predictive values were evaluated. Among 74 cases of vaccine-modified measles, 47 (64%) met the original case definition. Fever and rash were observed in 73% (54/74); fever was the most common (96%, 71/74) presenting symptom, and rash was noted in 77% (57/74) of the cases. The original case definition showed an overall sensitivity of 63.5% and a specificity of 100.0%. The expanded case definition combining fever and rash showed a higher sensitivity (72.9%) but a lower specificity (88.2%) than the original. The presence of fever and one or more of cough, coryza, or conjunctivitis scored the highest sensitivity among the combinations of signs and symptoms (77.0%), but scored the lowest specificity (52.9%). The expanded case definition was sensitive in identifying suspected cases of vaccine-modified measles. We suggest using this expanded definition for outbreak investigation in a closed community, and consider further discussions on expanding the case definition of measles for routine surveillance in South Korea.

Sensitising effects of genetically modified enzymes used in flavour, fragrance, detergence and pharmaceutical production: cross-sectional study.

PubMed

Budnik, Lygia T; Scheer, Edwin; Burge, P Sherwood; Baur, Xaver

2017-01-01

The use of genetically engineered enzymes in the synthesis of flavourings, fragrances and other applications has increased tremendously. There is, however, a paucity of data on sensitisation and/or allergy to the finished products. We aimed to review the use of genetically modified enzymes and the enormous challenges in human biomonitoring studies with suitable assays of specific IgE to a variety of modified enzyme proteins in occupational settings and measure specific IgE to modified enzymes in exposed workers. Specific IgE antibodies against workplace-specific individual enzymes were measured by the specific fluorescence enzyme-labelled immunoassay in 813 exposed workers seen in cross-sectional surveys. Twenty-three per cent of all exposed workers showed type I sensitisation with IgE antibodies directed against respective workplace-specific enzymes. The highest sensitisation frequencies observed were for workers exposed enzymes derived from α-amylase (44%), followed by stainzyme (41%), pancreatinin (35%), savinase (31%), papain (31%), ovozyme (28%), phytase (16%), trypsin (15%) and lipase (4%). The highest individual antibody levels (up to 110 kU/L) were detected in workers exposed to phytase, xylanase and glucanase. In a subgroup comprising 134 workers, detailed clinical diagnostics confirmed work-related symptoms. There was a strong correlation (r=0.75, p<0.0001) between the symptoms and antibody levels. Workers with work-related respiratory symptoms showed a higher prevalence for the presence of specific IgE antibodies against workplace-specific enzymes than asymptomatic exposed workers (likelihood ratio 2.32, sensitivity 0.92, specificity 0.6). Our data confirm the previous findings showing that genetically engineered enzymes are potent allergens eliciting immediate-type sensitisation. Owing to lack of commercial diagnostic tests, few of those exposed receive regular surveillance including biomonitoring with relevant specific IgE assays. 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/.

Cell wall-bound cationic and anionic class III isoperoxidases of pea root: biochemical characterization and function in root growth.

PubMed

Kukavica, Biljana M; Veljovicc-Jovanovicc, Sonja D; Menckhoff, Ljiljana; Lüthje, Sabine

2012-07-01

Cell wall isolated from pea roots was used to separate and characterize two fractions possessing class III peroxidase activity: (i) ionically bound proteins and (ii) covalently bound proteins. Modified SDS-PAGE separated peroxidase isoforms by their apparent molecular weights: four bands of 56, 46, 44, and 41kDa were found in the ionically bound fraction (iPOD) and one band (70kDa) was resolved after treatment of the cell wall with cellulase and pectinase (cPOD). Isoelectric focusing (IEF) patterns for iPODs and cPODs were significantly different: five iPODs with highly cationic pI (9.5-9.2) were detected, whereas the nine cPODs were anionic with pI values between pH 3.7 and 5. iPODs and cPODs showed rather specific substrate affinity and different sensitivity to inhibitors, heat, and deglycosylation treatments. Peroxidase and oxidase activities and their IEF patterns for both fractions were determined in different zones along the root and in roots of different ages. New iPODs with pI 9.34 and 9.5 were induced with root growth, while the activity of cPODs was more related to the formation of the cell wall in non-elongating tissue. Treatment with auxin that inhibits root growth led to suppression of iPOD and induction of cPOD. A similar effect was obtained with the widely used elicitor, chitosan, which also induced cPODs with pI 5.3 and 5.7, which may be specifically related to pathogen defence. The differences reported here between biochemical properties of cPOD and iPOD and their differential induction during development and under specific treatments implicate that they are involved in specific and different physiological processes.

Activation of TRPV2 and BKCa channels by the LL-37 enantiomers stimulates calcium entry and migration of cancer cells.

PubMed

Gambade, Audrey; Zreika, Sami; Guéguinou, Maxime; Chourpa, Igor; Fromont, Gaëlle; Bouchet, Ana Maria; Burlaud-Gaillard, Julien; Potier-Cartereau, Marie; Roger, Sébastien; Aucagne, Vincent; Chevalier, Stéphan; Vandier, Christophe; Goupille, Caroline; Weber, Günther

2016-04-26

Expression of the antimicrobial peptide hCAP18/LL-37 is associated to malignancy in various cancer forms, stimulating cell migration and metastasis. We report that LL-37 induces migration of three cancer cell lines by activating the TRPV2 calcium-permeable channel and recruiting it to pseudopodia through activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway. Ca2+ entry through TRPV2 cooperated with a K+ efflux through the BKCa channel. In a panel of human breast tumors, the expression of TRPV2 and LL-37 was found to be positively correlated. The D-enantiomer of LL-37 showed identical effects as the L-peptide, suggesting that no binding to a specific receptor was involved. LL-37 attached to caveolae and pseudopodia membranes and decreased membrane fluidity, suggesting that a modification of the physical properties of the lipid membrane bilayer was the underlying mechanism of its effects.

Activation of TRPV2 and BKCa channels by the LL-37 enantiomers stimulates calcium entry and migration of cancer cells

PubMed Central

Guéguinou, Maxime; Chourpa, Igor; Fromont, Gaëlle; Bouchet, Ana Maria; Burlaud-Gaillard, Julien; Potier-Cartereau, Marie; Roger, Sébastien; Aucagne, Vincent; Chevalier, Stéphan; Vandier, Christophe

2016-01-01

Expression of the antimicrobial peptide hCAP18/LL-37 is associated to malignancy in various cancer forms, stimulating cell migration and metastasis. We report that LL-37 induces migration of three cancer cell lines by activating the TRPV2 calcium-permeable channel and recruiting it to pseudopodia through activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway. Ca2+ entry through TRPV2 cooperated with a K+ efflux through the BKCa channel. In a panel of human breast tumors, the expression of TRPV2 and LL-37 was found to be positively correlated. The D-enantiomer of LL-37 showed identical effects as the L-peptide, suggesting that no binding to a specific receptor was involved. LL-37 attached to caveolae and pseudopodia membranes and decreased membrane fluidity, suggesting that a modification of the physical properties of the lipid membrane bilayer was the underlying mechanism of its effects. PMID:26993604

Can we predict the outcome for people with patellofemoral pain? A systematic review on prognostic factors and treatment effect modifiers.

PubMed

Matthews, M; Rathleff, M S; Claus, A; McPoil, T; Nee, R; Crossley, K; Vicenzino, B

2017-12-01

Patellofemoral pain (PFP) is a multifactorial and often persistent knee condition. One strategy to enhance patient outcomes is using clinically assessable patient characteristics to predict the outcome and match a specific treatment to an individual. A systematic review was conducted to determine which baseline patient characteristics were (1) associated with patient outcome (prognosis); or (2) modified patient outcome from a specific treatment (treatment effect modifiers). 6 electronic databases were searched (July 2016) for studies evaluating the association between those with PFP, their characteristics and outcome. All studies were appraised using the Epidemiological Appraisal Instrument. Studies that aimed to identify treatment effect modifiers underwent a checklist for methodological quality. The 24 included studies evaluated 180 participant characteristics. 12 studies investigated prognosis, and 12 studies investigated potential treatment effect modifiers. Important methodological limitations were identified. Some prognostic studies used a retrospective design. Studies aiming to identify treatment effect modifiers often analysed too many variables for the limiting sample size and typically failed to use a control or comparator treatment group. 16 factors were reported to be associated with a poor outcome, with longer duration of symptoms the most reported (>4 months). Preliminary evidence suggests increased midfoot mobility may predict those who have a successful outcome to foot orthoses. Current evidence can identify those with increased risk of a poor outcome, but methodological limitations make it difficult to predict the outcome after one specific treatment compared with another. Adequately designed randomised trials are needed to identify treatment effect modifiers. 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/.

Tetraspanin CD37 contributes to the initiation of cellular immunity by promoting dendritic cell migration.

PubMed

Gartlan, Kate H; Wee, Janet L; Demaria, Maria C; Nastovska, Roza; Chang, Tsz Man; Jones, Eleanor L; Apostolopoulos, Vasso; Pietersz, Geoffrey A; Hickey, Michael J; van Spriel, Annemiek B; Wright, Mark D

2013-05-01

Previous studies on the role of the tetraspanin CD37 in cellular immunity appear contradictory. In vitro approaches indicate a negative regulatory role, whereas in vivo studies suggest that CD37 is necessary for optimal cellular responses. To resolve this discrepancy, we studied the adaptive cellular immune responses of CD37(-/-) mice to intradermal challenge with either tumors or model antigens and found that CD37 is essential for optimal cell-mediated immunity. We provide evidence that an increased susceptibility to tumors observed in CD37(-/-) mice coincides with a striking failure to induce antigen-specific IFN-γ-secreting T cells. We also show that CD37 ablation impairs several aspects of DC function including: in vivo migration from skin to draining lymph nodes; chemo-tactic migration; integrin-mediated adhesion under flow; the ability to spread and form actin protrusions and in vivo priming of adoptively transferred naïve T cells. In addition, multiphoton microscopy-based assessment of dermal DC migration demonstrated a reduced rate of migration and increased randomness of DC migration in CD37(-/-) mice. Together, these studies are consistent with a model in which the cellular defect that underlies poor cellular immune induction in CD37(-/-) mice is impaired DC migration. © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Song tutoring in presinging zebra finch juveniles biases a small population of higher-order song-selective neurons toward the tutor song.

PubMed

Adret, Patrice; Meliza, C Daniel; Margoliash, Daniel

2012-10-01

We explored physiological changes correlated with song tutoring by recording the responses of caudal nidopallium neurons of zebra finches aged P21-P24 (days post hatching) to a broad spectrum of natural and synthetic stimuli. Those birds raised with their fathers tended to show behavioral evidence of song memorization but not of singing; thus auditory responses were not confounded by the birds' own vocalizations. In study 1, 37 of 158 neurons (23%) in 17 of 22 tutored and untutored birds were selective for only 1 of 10 stimuli comprising broadband signals, early juvenile songs and calls, female calls, and adult songs. Approximately 30% of the selective neurons (12/37 neurons in 9 birds) were selective for adult conspecific songs. All these were found in the song system nuclei HVC and paraHVC. Of 122 neurons (17 birds) in tutored birds, all of the conspecific song-selective neurons (8 neurons in 6 birds) were selective for the adult tutor song; none was selective for unfamiliar song. In study 2 with a different sampling strategy, we found that 11 of 12 song-selective neurons in 6 of 7 birds preferred the tutor song; none preferred unfamiliar or familiar conspecific songs. Most of these neurons were found in caudal lateral nidopallium (NCL) below HVC. Thus by the time a bird begins to sing, there are small numbers of tutor song-selective neurons distributed in several forebrain regions. We hypothesize that a small population of higher-order auditory neurons is innately selective for complex features of behaviorally relevant stimuli and these responses are modified by specific perceptual/social experience during development.

Song tutoring in presinging zebra finch juveniles biases a small population of higher-order song-selective neurons toward the tutor song

PubMed Central

Adret, Patrice; Meliza, C. Daniel

2012-01-01

We explored physiological changes correlated with song tutoring by recording the responses of caudal nidopallium neurons of zebra finches aged P21–P24 (days post hatching) to a broad spectrum of natural and synthetic stimuli. Those birds raised with their fathers tended to show behavioral evidence of song memorization but not of singing; thus auditory responses were not confounded by the birds' own vocalizations. In study 1, 37 of 158 neurons (23%) in 17 of 22 tutored and untutored birds were selective for only 1 of 10 stimuli comprising broadband signals, early juvenile songs and calls, female calls, and adult songs. Approximately 30% of the selective neurons (12/37 neurons in 9 birds) were selective for adult conspecific songs. All these were found in the song system nuclei HVC and paraHVC. Of 122 neurons (17 birds) in tutored birds, all of the conspecific song-selective neurons (8 neurons in 6 birds) were selective for the adult tutor song; none was selective for unfamiliar song. In study 2 with a different sampling strategy, we found that 11 of 12 song-selective neurons in 6 of 7 birds preferred the tutor song; none preferred unfamiliar or familiar conspecific songs. Most of these neurons were found in caudal lateral nidopallium (NCL) below HVC. Thus by the time a bird begins to sing, there are small numbers of tutor song-selective neurons distributed in several forebrain regions. We hypothesize that a small population of higher-order auditory neurons is innately selective for complex features of behaviorally relevant stimuli and these responses are modified by specific perceptual/social experience during development. PMID:22786956

The poor stay thinner: stable socioeconomic gradients in BMI among women in lower- and middle-income countries123

PubMed Central

Neuman, Melissa; Finlay, Jocelyn E; Davey Smith, George

2011-01-01

Background: Recent studies have shown a strong positive association between individual BMI (in kg/m2) or overweight prevalence and socioeconomic status (SES) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). However, it is not clear whether this association is weakening or reversing over time. Objective: With the use of nationally representative data collected at 2 time points in 37 LMICs, we compared the associations of SES with BMI and of SES with overweight between the earlier surveys and the later surveys. Design: We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of nationally representative samples of 547,056 ever-married nonpregnant women aged 15–49 y: 208,570 women in the earlier round of surveys conducted between 1991 and 2003 and 338,486 women in the later round conducted between 1998 and 2008. We used linear and modified Poisson analyses with a country fixed effect to obtain a pooled estimate and a country-stratified analysis for country-specific estimates. Results: In adjusted models, BMI was 2.32 units higher (95% CI: 2.23, 2.41 units) among women in the wealthiest quintile compared with women in the poorest quintile in the earlier surveys and was 3.00 units higher (95% CI: 2.92, 3.07 units) in the later surveys. The association between BMI and wealth was positive in 37 countries in the earlier round of surveys and in 36 countries in the later round. Patterns were similar for overweight prevalence. Conclusion: The association between SES and BMI or overweight is positive in most LMICs and has not weakened over time. It appears that the burden of overweight is consistently greater among wealthier populations within LMICs. PMID:21993437

Selective Amplification of SPR Biosensor Signal for Recognition of rpoB Gene Fragments by Use of Gold Nanoparticles Modified by Thiolated DNA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Matsishin, M.; Rachkov, A.; Lopatynskyi, A.; Chegel, V.; Soldatkin, A.; El'skaya, A.

2017-04-01

An experimental approach for improving the sensitivity of the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) DNA hybridization sensor using gold nanoparticles (GNPs), modified by specific oligonucleotides, was elaborated. An influence of the ionic strength on the aggregation stability of unmodified GNPs and GNPs modified by the thiolated oligonucleotides was investigated by monitoring a value of light extinction at 520 nm that can be considered as a measure of a quantity of the non-aggregated GNPs. While the unmodified GNPs started to aggregate in 0.2 × saline-sodium citrate (SSC), GNPs modified by the negatively charged oligonucleotides were more stable at increasing ionic strength up to 0.5 × SSC. A bioselective element of the SPR DNA hybridization sensor was formed by immobilization on the gold sensor surface of the thiolated oligonucleotides P2, the sequence of which is a fragment of the rpoB gene of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The injections into the measuring flow cell of the SPR spectrometer of various concentrations of GNPs modified by the complementary oligonucleotides T2-18m caused the pronounced concentration-dependent sequence-specific sensor responses. The magnitude of the sensor responses was much higher than in the case of the free standing complementary oligonucleotides. According to the obtained experimental data, the usage of GNPs modified by specific oligonucleotides can amplify the sensor response of the SPR DNA hybridization sensor in 1200 times.

37 CFR 1.11 - Files open to the public.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 37 Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights 1 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Files open to the public. 1... Patent and Trademark Office § 1.11 Files open to the public. (a) The specification, drawings, and all... are open to inspection by the public, and copies may be obtained upon the payment of the fee set forth...

37 CFR 1.11 - Files open to the public.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 37 Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights 1 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Files open to the public. 1... Patent and Trademark Office § 1.11 Files open to the public. (a) The specification, drawings, and all... are open to inspection by the public, and copies may be obtained upon the payment of the fee set forth...

37 CFR 1.11 - Files open to the public.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 37 Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Files open to the public. 1... Patent and Trademark Office § 1.11 Files open to the public. (a) The specification, drawings, and all... are open to inspection by the public, and copies may be obtained upon the payment of the fee set forth...

37 CFR 1.11 - Files open to the public.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 37 Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights 1 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Files open to the public. 1... Patent and Trademark Office § 1.11 Files open to the public. (a) The specification, drawings, and all... are open to inspection by the public, and copies may be obtained upon the payment of the fee set forth...

37 CFR 1.11 - Files open to the public.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 37 Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights 1 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Files open to the public. 1... Patent and Trademark Office § 1.11 Files open to the public. (a) The specification, drawings, and all... are open to inspection by the public, and copies may be obtained upon the payment of the fee set forth...

Glatz Prototype Seat Impact Testing

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-07-03

airbag restraint, H-60A/L, crashworthiness, crashworthy, helicopter, rotorcraft, occupant restraint 16. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF: 17...data for Cell C, incorporating the H-60 Comp data, the new Glatz prototype data, and data from the airbag restraint program with a modified H-60A/L seat...1711 GLATZ VDT6290 Glatz 24.37 40.52 YES 922 42.40 1732 AIRBAG VDT6287 H-60A/L w/crotch strap mod 21.39* 40.56 YES 1267 21.27 1373 *Issue with

Use of artificial sweeteners and fat-modified foods in weight loss maintainers and always normal weight individuals

PubMed Central

Phelan, Suzanne; Lang, Wei; Jordan, Dustin; Wing, Rena R.

2009-01-01

Objective The purpose of this study was to compare the dietary strategies and use of fat and sugar-modified foods and beverages in a weight loss maintainer group (WLM) and an always normal weight group (NW). Subjects WLM (N = 172) had maintained ≥ 10% weight loss for 11.5 yr, and had a BMI of 22.0 kg/m2. NW (N=131) had a BMI of 21.3 kg/m2 and no history of overweight. Three, 24-h recalls on random, non-consecutive days were used to assess dietary intake. Results WLM reported consuming a diet that was lower in fat (28.7% vs. 32.6%, p < .0001) and used more fat-modification strategies than NW. WLM also consumed a significantly greater percentage of modified dairy (60% vs. 49%; p = .002) and modified dressings and sauces (55% vs. 44%; p = .006) than NW. WLM reported consuming three times more daily servings of artificially sweetened soft drinks (0.91 vs. 0.37; p = .003), significantly fewer daily servings of sugar-sweetened soft drinks (0.07 vs. 0.16; p =.03), and more daily servings of water (4.72 vs 3.48; p=.002) than NW. Conclusions These findings suggests that WLM use more dietary strategies to accomplish their weight loss maintenance, including greater restriction of fat intake, use of fat- and sugar-modified foods, reduced consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages, and increased consumption of artificially sweetened beverages. Ways to promote the use of fat-modified foods and artificial sweeteners merits further research in both prevention and treatment controlled trials. PMID:19636318

Subunit Stabilization and Polyethylene Glycolation of Cocaine Esterase Improves In Vivo Residence Time

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

Narasimhan, Diwahar; Collins, Gregory T.; Nance, Mark R.

No small-molecule therapeutic is available to treat cocaine addiction, but enzyme-based therapy to accelerate cocaine hydrolysis in serum has gained momentum. Bacterial cocaine esterase (CocE) is the fastest known native enzyme that hydrolyzes cocaine. However, its lability at 37 C has limited its therapeutic potential. Cross-linking subunits through disulfide bridging is commonly used to stabilize multimeric enzymes. Herein we use structural methods to guide the introduction of two cysteine residues within dimer interface of CocE to facilitate intermolecular disulfide bond formation. The disulfide-crosslinked enzyme displays improved thermostability, particularly when combined with previously described mutations that enhance stability (T172R-G173Q). The newlymore » modified enzyme yielded an extremely stable form of CocE (CCRQ-CocE) that retained greater than 90% of its activity after 41 days at 37 C, representing an improvement of more than 4700-fold over the wild-type enzyme. CCRQ-CocE could also be modified by polyethylene glycol (PEG) polymers, which improved its in vivo residence time from 24 to 72 h, as measured by a cocaine lethality assay, by self-administration in rodents, and by measurement of inhibition of cocaine-induced cardiovascular effects in rhesus monkeys. PEG-CCRQ elicited negligible immune response in rodents. Subunit stabilization and PEGylation has thus produced a potential protein therapeutic with markedly higher stability both in vitro and in vivo.« less

Subunit Stabilization and Polyethylene Glycolation of Cocaine Esterase Improves In Vivo Residence TimeS⃞

PubMed Central

Narasimhan, Diwahar; Collins, Gregory T.; Nance, Mark R.; Nichols, Joseph; Edwald, Elin; Chan, Jimmy; Ko, Mei-Chuan; Woods, James H.; Tesmer, John J. G.

2011-01-01

No small-molecule therapeutic is available to treat cocaine addiction, but enzyme-based therapy to accelerate cocaine hydrolysis in serum has gained momentum. Bacterial cocaine esterase (CocE) is the fastest known native enzyme that hydrolyzes cocaine. However, its lability at 37°C has limited its therapeutic potential. Cross-linking subunits through disulfide bridging is commonly used to stabilize multimeric enzymes. Herein we use structural methods to guide the introduction of two cysteine residues within dimer interface of CocE to facilitate intermolecular disulfide bond formation. The disulfide-crosslinked enzyme displays improved thermostability, particularly when combined with previously described mutations that enhance stability (T172R-G173Q). The newly modified enzyme yielded an extremely stable form of CocE (CCRQ-CocE) that retained greater than 90% of its activity after 41 days at 37°C, representing an improvement of more than 4700-fold over the wild-type enzyme. CCRQ-CocE could also be modified by polyethylene glycol (PEG) polymers, which improved its in vivo residence time from 24 to 72 h, as measured by a cocaine lethality assay, by self-administration in rodents, and by measurement of inhibition of cocaine-induced cardiovascular effects in rhesus monkeys. PEG-CCRQ elicited negligible immune response in rodents. Subunit stabilization and PEGylation has thus produced a potential protein therapeutic with markedly higher stability both in vitro and in vivo. PMID:21890748

Change in birth outcomes among infants born to Latina mothers after a major immigration raid.

PubMed

Novak, Nicole L; Geronimus, Arline T; Martinez-Cardoso, Aresha M

2017-06-01

Growing evidence indicates that immigration policy and enforcement adversely affect the well-being of Latino immigrants, but fewer studies examine 'spillover effects' on USA-born Latinos. Immigration enforcement is often diffuse, covert and difficult to measure. By contrast, the federal immigration raid in Postville, Iowa, in 2008 was, at the time, the largest single-site federal immigration raid in US history. We employed a quasi-experimental design, examining ethnicity-specific patterns in birth outcomes before and after the Postville raid. We analysed Iowa birth-certificate data to compare risk of term and preterm low birthweight (LBW), by ethnicity and nativity, in the 37 weeks following the raid to the same 37-week period the previous year ( n  =   52 344). We model risk of adverse birth outcomes using modified Poisson regression and model distribution of birthweight using quantile regression. Infants born to Latina mothers had a 24% greater risk of LBW after the raid when compared with the same period 1 year earlier [risk ratio (95% confidence interval) = 1.24 (0.98, 1.57)]. No such change was observed among infants born to non-Latina White mothers. Increased risk of LBW was observed for USA-born and immigrant Latina mothers. The association between raid timing and LBW was stronger among term than preterm births. Changes in birthweight after the raid primarily reflected decreased birthweight below the 5th percentile of the distribution, not a shift in mean birthweight. Our findings highlight the implications of racialized stressors not only for the health of Latino immigrants, but also for USA-born co-ethnics. © The Author 2017; all rights reserved. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the International Epidemiological Association

Nanoparticle-based strategy for personalized B-cell lymphoma therapy

PubMed Central

Martucci, Nicola M; Migliaccio, Nunzia; Ruggiero, Immacolata; Albano, Francesco; Calì, Gaetano; Romano, Simona; Terracciano, Monica; Rea, Ilaria; Arcari, Paolo; Lamberti, Annalisa

2016-01-01

B-cell lymphoma is associated with incomplete response to treatment, and the development of effective strategies targeting this disease remains challenging. A new personalized B-cell lymphoma therapy, based on a site-specific receptor-mediated drug delivery system, was developed in this study. Specifically, natural silica-based nanoparticles (diatomite) were modified to actively target the antiapoptotic factor B-cell lymphoma/leukemia 2 (Bcl2) with small interfering RNA (siRNA). An idiotype-specific peptide (Id-peptide) specifically recognized by the hypervariable region of surface immunoglobulin B-cell receptor was exploited as a homing device to ensure specific targeting of lymphoma cells. Specific nanoparticle uptake, driven by the Id-peptide, was evaluated by flow cytometry and confocal microscopy and was increased by approximately threefold in target cells compared with nonspecific myeloma cells and when a random control peptide was used instead of Id-peptide. The specific internalization efficiency was increased by fourfold when siRNA was also added to the modified nanoparticles. The modified diatomite particles were not cytotoxic and their effectiveness in downregulation of gene expression was explored using siRNA targeting Bcl2 and evaluated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analyses. The resulting gene silencing observed is of significant biological importance and opens new possibilities for the personalized treatment of lymphomas. PMID:27895482

Immediate versus modified release hydrocortisone in mitotane-treated patients with adrenocortical cancer.

PubMed

Weigel, Marianne; Hahner, Stefanie; Sherlock, Mark; Agha, Amar; Behan, Lucy Ann; Stewart, Paul M; Arlt, Wiebke; Beier, Daniela; Frey, Kathrin; Zopf, Kathrin; Quinkler, Marcus

2017-04-01

Mitotane induces hepatic CYP3A4 activity, resulting in accelerated cortisol inactivation, and also increases cortisol binding globulin (CBG). Therefore, higher hydrocortisone doses are required in patients with adrenocortical cancer (ACC) on mitotane treatment. Modified release hydrocortisone has not been used in mitotane-treated ACC patients yet. Case series to compare serum cortisol, calculated free serum cortisol and ACTH levels in ACC patients on mitotane treatment with immediate and modified release hydrocortisone. Pharmacokinetics of immediate and modified release hydrocortisone, each administered at a dose of 40-20-0 mg, in nine patients with ACC and adjuvant mitotane treatment. For comparison, ten patients with secondary adrenal insufficiency (SAI) on three different hydrocortisone regimens and ten healthy males were included. Serum cortisol and plasma ACTH were measured by chemiluminescent enzyme immunoassay, and CBG by RIA, followed by calculation of free cortisol. Calculated free serum cortisol levels after 40 mg immediate release hydrocortisone in ACC patients (46 ± 14 nmol/l) were similar to those after 10 mg immediate release hydrocortisone intake in men with SAI (64 ± 16 nmol/l) or to the physiological morning free cortisol levels in healthy subjects (31 ± 5 nmol/l). Compared to immediate release hydrocortisone, free cortisol levels after 40 mg modified release hydrocortisone in ACC patients were significantly lower (12 ± 3 nmol/l; P = 0·03) resulting in a generally lower AUC (98 ± 21 vs 149 ± 37 nmol h/l; P = 0·02). 40-20-0 mg immediate release, but not modified release hydrocortisone, resulted in sufficient glucocorticoid coverage in patients with ACC receiving mitotane treatment. The use of equivalent doses of modified release hydrocortisone preparation should be avoided in patients on mitotane treatment. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Determination of the diagnostic value of the Modified Mallampati Score, Upper Lip Bite Test and Facial Angle in predicting difficult intubation: A prospective descriptive study.

PubMed

Mahmoodpoor, Ata; Soleimanpour, Hassan; Golzari, Samad Ej; Nejabatian, Arezoo; Pourlak, Tannaz; Amani, Masoumeh; Hajmohammadi, Saeed; Hosseinzadeh, Hamzeh; Esfanjani, Robab Mehdizadeh

2017-02-01

Difficult intubation is a significant cause of mortality and morbidity related to anesthesia. We decided to evaluate the value of Modified Mallampati Score, Upper Lip Bite Test and Facial Angle in the prediction of difficult intubation. In a prospective descriptive study, data from 132 patients who were candidates for elective maxillofacial surgeries under general anesthesia were gathered. Facial Angles were measured by a maxillofacial surgeon according to cephalometry. The Modified Mallampati Score and Upper Lip Bite Test were first measured by an anesthesiologist and then another anesthesiologist was assigned to record the Cormack and Lehane score during the intubation. Grades 3 and 4 were considered as difficult intubation. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and Youden index were calculated for all tests. Difficult intubation was reported in 12% of the patients. Facial Angle≤82.5° can predict difficult intubation with 87.5% sensitivity and 88.8% specificity. Among the three tests, a high Modified Mallampati Score had the highest specificity (94.5%) and a high Modified Mallampati Score and Facial Angle (FA≤82.5°) had the highest sensitivity (87.5%). The highest NPV, sensitivity and Youden index were observed when using Facial Angle with the Modified Mallampati Score or with Upper Lip Bite Test. Facial Angle has a high sensitivity, NPV and Youden index for the prediction of difficult intubation, but the best result is achieved when Facial Angle is used in combination with either the Modified Mallampati Score or Upper Lip Bit Test. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Evidence of viscerally‐mediated cold‐defence thermoeffector responses in man

PubMed Central

Morris, Nathan B.; Filingeri, Davide; Halaki, Mark

2016-01-01

Key points Visceral thermoreceptors that modify thermoregulatory responses are widely accepted in animal but not human thermoregulation models.Recently, we have provided evidence of viscerally‐mediated sweating alterations in humans during exercise brought about by warm and cool fluid ingestion.In the present study, we characterize the modification of shivering and whole‐body thermal sensation during cold stress following the administration of a graded thermal stimuli delivered to the stomach via fluid ingestion at 52, 37, 22 and 7°C.Despite no differences in core and skin temperature, fluid ingestion at 52°C rapidly decreased shivering and sensations of cold compared to 37°C, whereas fluid ingestion at 22 and 7°C led to equivalent increases in these responses.Warm and cold fluid ingestion independently modifies cold defence thermoeffector responses, supporting the presence of visceral thermoreceptors in humans. However, the cold‐defence thermoeffector response patterns differed from previously identified hot‐defence thermoeffectors. Abstract Sudomotor activity is modified by both warm and cold fluid ingestion during heat stress, independently of differences in core and skin temperatures, suggesting independent viscerally‐mediated modification of thermoeffectors. The present study aimed to determine whether visceral thermoreceptors modify shivering responses to cold stress. Ten males (mean ± SD: age 27 ± 5 years; height 1.73 ± 0.06 m, weight 78.4 ± 10.7 kg) underwent whole‐body cooling via a water perfusion suit at 5°C, on four occasions, to induce a steady‐state shivering response, at which point two aliquots of 1.5 ml kg–1 (SML) and 3.0 ml kg–1 (LRG), separated by 20 min, of water at 7, 22, 37 or 52°C were ingested. Rectal, mean skin and mean body temperature (T b), electromyographic activity (EMG), metabolic rate (M) and whole‐body thermal sensation on a visual analogue scale (WBTS) ranging from 0 mm (very cold) to 200 mm (very hot) were all measured throughout. T b was not different between all fluid temperatures following SML fluid ingestion (7°C: 35.7 ± 0.5°C; 22°C: 35.6 ± 0.5°C; 37°C: 35.5 ± 0.4°C; 52°C: 35.5 ± 0.4°C; P = 0.27) or LRG fluid ingestion (7°C: 35.3 ± 0.6°C; 22°C: 35.3 ± 0.5°C; 37°C: 35.2 ± 0.5°C; 52°C: 35.3 ± 0.5°C; P = 0.99). With SML fluid ingestion, greater metabolic rates and cooler thermal sensations were observed with ingestion at 7°C (M: 179 ± 55 W, WBTS: 29 ± 21 mm) compared to 52°C (M: 164 ± 34 W, WBTS: 51 ± 28 mm; all P < 0.05). With LRG ingestion, compared to shivering and thermal sensations with ingestion at 37°C (M: 215 ± 47 W, EMG: 3.9 ± 2.5% MVC, WBTS: 33 ± 2 mm), values were different (all P < 0.05) following ingestion at 7°C (M: 269 ± 77 W, EMG: 5.5 ± 0.9% MVC, WBTS: 14 ± 12 mm), 22°C (M: 270 ± 86 W, EMG: 5.6 ± 1.0% MVC, WBTS: 18 ± 19 mm) and 52°C (M: 179 ± 34 W, EMG: 3.3 ± 2.1% MVC, WBTS: 53 ± 28 mm). In conclusion, fluid ingestion at 52°C decreased shivering and the sensation of coolness, whereas fluid ingestion at 22 and 7°C increased shivering and sensations of coolness to similar levels, independently of core and skin temperature. PMID:27929204

Influence of nonelectrostatic ion-ion interactions on double-layer capacitance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Hui

2012-11-01

Recently a Poisson-Helmholtz-Boltzmann (PHB) model [Bohinc , Phys. Rev. EPLEEE81539-375510.1103/PhysRevE.85.031130 85, 031130 (2012)] was developed by accounting for solvent-mediated nonelectrostatic ion-ion interactions. Nonelectrostatic interactions are described by a Yukawa-like pair potential. In the present work, we modify the PHB model by adding steric effects (finite ion size) into the free energy to derive governing equations. The modified PHB model is capable of capturing both ion specificity and ion crowding. This modified model is then employed to study the capacitance of the double layer. More specifically, we focus on the influence of nonelectrostatic ion-ion interactions on charging a double layer near a flat surface in the presence of steric effects. We numerically compute the differential capacitance as a function of the voltage under various conditions. At small voltages and low salt concentrations (dilute solution), we find out that the predictions from the modified PHB model are the same as those from the classical Poisson-Boltzmann theory, indicating that nonelectrostatic ion-ion interactions and steric effects are negligible. At moderate voltages, nonelectrostatic ion-ion interactions play an important role in determining the differential capacitance. Generally speaking, nonelectrostatic interactions decrease the capacitance because of additional nonelectrostatic repulsion among excess counterions inside the double layer. However, increasing the voltage gradually favors steric effects, which induce a condensed layer with crowding of counterions near the electrode. Accordingly, the predictions from the modified PHB model collapse onto those computed by the modified Poisson-Boltzmann theory considering steric effects alone. Finally, theoretical predictions are compared and favorably agree with experimental data, in particular, in concentrated solutions, leading one to conclude that the modified PHB model adequately predicts the diffuse-charge dynamics of the double layer with ion specificity and steric effects.

Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) method for detection of genetically modified maize T25.

PubMed

Xu, Junyi; Zheng, Qiuyue; Yu, Ling; Liu, Ran; Zhao, Xin; Wang, Gang; Wang, Qinghua; Cao, Jijuan

2013-11-01

The loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay indicates a potential and valuable means for genetically modified organism (GMO) detection especially for its rapidity, simplicity, and low cost. We developed and evaluated the specificity and sensitivity of the LAMP method for rapid detection of the genetically modified (GM) maize T25. A set of six specific primers was successfully designed to recognize six distinct sequences on the target gene, including a pair of inner primers, a pair of outer primers, and a pair of loop primers. The optimum reaction temperature and time were verified to be 65°C and 45 min, respectively. The detection limit of this LAMP assay was 5 g kg(-1) GMO component. Comparative experiments showed that the LAMP assay was a simple, rapid, accurate, and specific method for detecting the GM maize T25.

Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) method for detection of genetically modified maize T25

PubMed Central

Xu, Junyi; Zheng, Qiuyue; Yu, Ling; Liu, Ran; Zhao, Xin; Wang, Gang; Wang, Qinghua; Cao, Jijuan

2013-01-01

The loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay indicates a potential and valuable means for genetically modified organism (GMO) detection especially for its rapidity, simplicity, and low cost. We developed and evaluated the specificity and sensitivity of the LAMP method for rapid detection of the genetically modified (GM) maize T25. A set of six specific primers was successfully designed to recognize six distinct sequences on the target gene, including a pair of inner primers, a pair of outer primers, and a pair of loop primers. The optimum reaction temperature and time were verified to be 65°C and 45 min, respectively. The detection limit of this LAMP assay was 5 g kg−1 GMO component. Comparative experiments showed that the LAMP assay was a simple, rapid, accurate, and specific method for detecting the GM maize T25. PMID:24804053

Concussion is Treatable: Statements of Agreement from the Targeted Evaluation and Active Management (TEAM) Approaches to Treating Concussion Meeting held in Pittsburgh, October 15–16, 2015

PubMed Central

Collins, Michael W.; Kontos, Anthony P.; Okonkwo, David O.; Almquist, Jon; Bailes, Julian; Barisa, Mark; Bazarian, Jeffrey; Bloom, O. Josh; Brody, David; Cantu, Robert; Cardenas, Javier; Clugston, Jay; Cohen, Randall; Echemendia, Ruben; Elbin, R.J.; Ellenbogen, Richard; Fonseca, Janna; Gioia, Gerard; Guskiewicz, Kevin; Heyer, Robert; Hotz, Gillian; Iverson, Grant L.; Jordan, Barry; Manley, Geoffrey; Maroon, Joseph; McAllister, Thomas; McCrea, Michael; Mucha, Anne; Pieroth, Elizabeth; Podell, Kenneth; Pombo, Matthew; Shetty, Teena; Sills, Allen; Solomon, Gary; Thomas, Danny G.; Valovich McLeod, Tamara C.; Yates, Tony; Zafonte, Ross

2016-01-01

Background Conventional management for concussion involves prescribed rest and progressive return to activity. Recent evidence challenges this notion and suggests that active approaches may be effective for some patients. Previous concussion consensus statements provide limited guidance regarding active treatment. Objective To describe the current landscape of treatment for concussion and provide summary agreements related to treatment in order to assist clinicians in the treatment of concussion. Methods On October 14–16, 2015, the Targeted Evaluation & Active Management (TEAM) Approaches To Treating Concussion meeting was convened in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA. 37 concussion experts from neuropsychology, neurology, neurosurgery, sports medicine, physical medicine and rehabilitation, physical therapy, athletic training, and research, and 12 individuals representing sport, military, and public health organizations attended the meeting. The 37 experts indicated their agreement on a series of statements using an audience response system clicker device. Results A total of 16 statements of agreement were supported covering: 1) Summary of the Current Approach to Treating Concussion, 2) Heterogeneity and Evolving Clinical Profiles of Concussion, 3) Targeted Evaluation and Active Management Approach to Concussion Treatment: Specific Strategies, and 4) Future Directions: A Call to Research. Support (ie, response of agree or somewhat agree) for the statements ranged from to 97–100%. Conclusion Concussions are characterized by diverse symptoms and impairments and evolving clinical profiles; recovery varies based on modifying factors, injury severity, and treatments. Active and targeted treatments may enhance recovery following concussion. Research is needed on concussion clinical profiles, biomarkers, and the effectiveness and timing of treatments. PMID:27741219

Modifiable risk factors for chronic back pain: insights using the co-twin control design.

PubMed

Suri, Pradeep; Boyko, Edward J; Smith, Nicholas L; Jarvik, Jeffrey G; Williams, Frances M K; Jarvik, Gail P; Goldberg, Jack

2017-01-01

Inconsistent associations between modifiable risk factors and chronic back pain (CBP) may be due to the inability of traditional epidemiologic study designs to properly account for an array of potential genetic and environmental confounding factors. The co-twin control research design, comparing modifiable risk factors in twins discordant for CBP, offers a unique way to remove numerous confounding factors. The study aimed to examine the association of modifiable lifestyle and psychological factors with lifetime CBP. This is a cross-sectional co-twin control study in a nationwide sample of male twin members of the Vietnam Era Twin Registry. The sample is composed of 7,108 participants, including 1,308 monozygotic (MZ) pairs and 793 dizygotic pairs. The outcome measure is the self-reported lifetime history of CBP. Lifestyle factors included body mass index (BMI), smoking history, alcohol consumption, habitual physical activity, and typical sleep duration. Psychological factors included depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-9) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms (PTSD Checklist). Covariates included age, race, education, and income. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated for the association of risk factors with lifetime CBP when considering twins as individuals, and a within-pair co-twin control analysis that accounted for familial and genetic factors. Funding was through VA Grant 5IK2RX001515; there were no study-specific conflicts of interest. The mean age of respondents was 62 years and the prevalence of lifetime CBP was 28%. All lifestyle factors were associated with CBP in the individual level analysis. However, none of these persisted in the within-pair analyses, except for severe obesity (BMI ≥35.0), which was associated with lifetime CBP in both individual-level (OR=1.6, 95% CI: 1.3-1.9) and within-pair analyses (MZ analysis: OR=3.7, 95% CI: 1.2-11.4). Symptoms of PTSD and depression were strongly associated with lifetime CBP in both the individual-level (moderate or severe depression: OR=4.2, 95% CI: 3.6-4.9, and severe PTSD: OR=4.8, 95% CI: 4.0-5.7) and within-pair (MZ) analyses (moderate or severe depression: OR=4.6, 95% CI: 2.4-8.7, and severe PTSD: OR=3.2, 95% CI: 1.6-6.5). Many associations between modifiable lifestyle risk factors and CBP are due to confounding by familial and genetic factors. Severe obesity, depression, and PTSD should be considered in the development of intervention strategies to reduce the prevalence of CBP. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Rapid detection of α-thalassaemia alleles of --(SEA)/, -α(3.7)/ and -α(4.2)/ using a dual labelling, self-quenching hybridization probe/melting curve analysis.

PubMed

Gao, Lan; Liu, Yanhui; Sun, Manna; Zhao, Ying; Xie, Rungui; He, Yi; Xu, Wanfang; Liu, Jianxin; Lin, Yangyang; Lou, Jiwu

2015-12-01

The aim of the study was to set up an alternative automatic molecular diagnostic method for deletional α-thalassaemia mutations without gel electrophoresis. Based on the sequence variation within the two Z boxes and melting curve analysis of dually labelled probes, a real-time PCR assay was developed and validated for the rapid detection of major α-genotypes (--(SEA)/αα, --(SEA)/-α(3.7), --(SEA)/-α(4.2), --(SEA)/--(SEA), -α(3.7)/-α(3.7) and -α(4.2)/-α(4.2)). Samples with the -α(3.7)/-α(3.7), -α(4.2)/-α(4.2), --(SEA)/αα, --(SEA)/-α(3.7), --(SEA)/-α(4.2), and --(SEA)/--(SEA) genotypes could be clearly distinguished. The accuracy of this technique for these samples was 100% sensitivity and specificity. This technique is rapid and reliable, demonstrating feasibility for use in large-scale population screening and prenatal diagnosis of deletional Hb H disease and Hb Bart's hydrops fetalis. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Host Specificity of Salmonella typhimurium Deoxyribonucleic Acid Restriction and Modification

PubMed Central

Slocum, Harvey; Boyer, Herbert W.

1973-01-01

The restriction and modification genes of Salmonella typhimurium which lie near the thr locus were transferred to a restrictionless mutant of Escherichia coli. These genes were found to be allelic to the E. coli K, B, and A restriction and modification genes. E. coli recombinants with the restriction and modification host specificity of S. typhimurium restricted phage λ that had been modified by each of the seven known host specificities of E. coli at efficiency of plating levels of about 10−2. Phage λ modified with the S. typhimurium host specificity was restricted by six of the seven E. coli host specificities but not by the RII (fi− R-factor controlled) host specificity. It is proposed that the restriction and modification enzymes of this S. typhimurium host specificity have two substrates, one of which is a substrate for the RII host specificity enzymes. PMID:4570605

Elimination of reactive blue 4 from aqueous solutions using 3-aminopropyl triethoxysilane modified chitosan beads.

PubMed

Vakili, Mohammadtaghi; Rafatullah, Mohd; Salamatinia, Babak; Ibrahim, Mahamad Hakimi; Abdullah, Ahmad Zuhairi

2015-11-05

The adsorption behavior of chitosan (CS) beads modified with 3-aminopropyl triethoxysilane (APTES) for the removal of reactive blue 4 (RB4) in batch studies has been investigated. The effects of modification conditions, such as the APTES concentration, temperature and reaction time on RB4 removal, were studied. The adsorbent prepared at a concentration of 2 wt% APTES for 8h at 50 °C was the most effective one for RB4 adsorption. The adsorption capacity of modified CS beads (433.77 mg/g) was 1.37 times higher than that of unmodified CS beads (317.23 mg/g). The isotherm data are adequately described by a Freundlich model, and the kinetic study revealed that the pseudo-second-order rate model was in better agreement with the experimental data. The negative values of the thermodynamic parameters, including ΔG° (-2.28 and -4.70 kJ/mol at 30 ± 2 °C), ΔH° (-172.18 and -43.82 kJ/mol) and ΔS° (-560.71 and -129.08 J/mol K) for CS beads and APTES modified beads, respectively, suggest that RB4 adsorption is a spontaneous and exothermic process. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

37 CFR 1.72 - Title and abstract.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

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42 CFR 37.52 - Method of obtaining definitive interpretations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... Roentgenographic Examinations Specifications for Interpretation, Classification, and Submission of Chest... described in § 37.51. If there is agreement between the two interpreters as defined in paragraph (b) of this... (with one exception noted below) are within one minor category (ILO Classification 12-point scale) of...

37 CFR 1.76 - Application data sheet.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

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37 CFR 1.74 - Reference to drawings.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

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37 CFR 1.74 - Reference to drawings.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

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37 CFR 1.79 - Reservation clauses not permitted.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

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37 CFR 1.73 - Summary of the invention.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

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37 CFR 1.79 - Reservation clauses not permitted.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

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37 CFR 1.73 - Summary of the invention.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

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META II Complex Systems Design and Analysis (CODA)

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-08-01

37  3.8.7  Variables, Parameters and Constraints ............................................................. 37  3.8.8  Objective...18  Figure 7: Inputs, States, Outputs and Parameters of System Requirements Specifications ......... 19...Design Rule Based on Device Parameter ....................................................... 57  Figure 35: AEE Device Design Rules (excerpt

Improve T Cell Therapy in Neuroblastoma

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-07-01

Epstein - Barr - virus (EBV)-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (EBV-CTLs) genetically modified to express a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR-GD2) targeting the...A. Krance, M. K. Brenner, and C. M. Rooney. 1996. Long-term restoration of immunity against Epstein - Barr virus infection by adoptive transfer of gene... Barr - virus (EBV)- specific cytotoxic T l ymphocytes (EBV-CTLs) genetically modified to express a c himeric antigen receptor (CAR-GD2) targeting the GD2

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

Klein, F.A.; Ali, M.M.; Kersh, R.

Three female patients (mean age 55) with carcinoma of the urethra were treated with combined external beam irradiation (4,000 to 5,000 rads) and interstitial irradiation with iridium Ir 192 (2,700 to 3,000 rads) applied with a modified Syed-Neblett template. Two patients are alive with no evidence of disease at 27 and 37 months. One patient died of a second primary tumor at 30 months, without histologic evidence of the original urethral neoplasm. No patient had significant complications of therapy. This treatment regimen is effective for selected women with urethral carcinoma.

Chaos in a Fractional Order Chua System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lorenzo, Carl F.; Hartley, Tom T.; Qammar, Helen Killory

1996-01-01

This report studies the effects of fractional dynamics in chaotic systems. In particular, Chua's system is modified to include fractional order elements. Varying the total system order incrementally from 2.6 to 3.7 demonstrates that systems of 'order' less than three can exhibit chaos as well as other nonlinear behavior. This effectively forces a clarification of the definition of order which can no longer be considered only by the total number of differentiations or by the highest power of the Laplace variable.

First application of a microsphere-based immunoassay to the detection of genetically modified organisms (GMOs): quantification of Cry1Ab protein in genetically modified maize.

PubMed

Fantozzi, Anna; Ermolli, Monica; Marini, Massimiliano; Scotti, Domenico; Balla, Branko; Querci, Maddalena; Langrell, Stephen R H; Van den Eede, Guy

2007-02-21

An innovative covalent microsphere immunoassay, based on the usage of fluorescent beads coupled to a specific antibody, was developed for the quantification of the endotoxin Cry1Ab present in MON810 and Bt11 genetically modified (GM) maize lines. In particular, a specific protocol was developed to assess the presence of Cry1Ab in a very broad range of GM maize concentrations, from 0.1 to 100% [weight of genetically modified organism (GMO)/weight]. Test linearity was achieved in the range of values from 0.1 to 3%, whereas fluorescence signal increased following a nonlinear model, reaching a plateau at 25%. The limits of detection and quantification were equal to 0.018 and 0.054%, respectively. The present study describes the first application of quantitative high-throughput immunoassays in GMO analysis.

Optimal Outcomes in Young Class 3 Patients With Thalassemia Undergoing HLA-Identical Sibling Bone Marrow Transplantation.

PubMed

Gaziev, Javid; Isgrò, Antonella; Sodani, Pietro; Marziali, Marco; Paciaroni, Katia; Gallucci, Cristiano; De Angelis, Gioia; Andreani, Marco; Testi, Manuela; Alfieri, Cecilia; Ribersani, Michela; Galluccio, Tiziana; Battarra, Maria Rosa; Morrone, Aldo; Lucarelli, Guido

2016-04-01

Bone marrow transplantation (BMT) for class 3 patients with thalassemia is challenging due to high rates of graft rejection and transplant-related mortality. Since the first studies of BMT in the late 1980s, a number of conditioning regimens have been designed to improve outcomes, but with suboptimal results. Here we report the outcome of transplantation in class 3 patients using a modified protocol. Sixty-three patients between 5 and 16.7 years of age with class 3 thalassemia received HLA-matched sibling BMT following either the original protocol (26 patients) or the modified protocol (37 patients). Both regimens comprised preconditioning cytoreduction with hydroxyurea and azathioprine starting at -45 days pretransplant, and fludarabine from days -16 to -12. Conditioning was performed with busulfan and cyclophosphamide (original protocol) or with busulfan, thiotepa, and cyclophosphamide (modified protocol). The 2 groups showed similar patient demographics. At day 0, the degree of cytoreduction (lymphopenia, neuthropenia, and thrombocytopenia) achieved by the modified protocol was greater than the original protocol. The incidence of graft failure/rejection was significantly higher in the original group (15%; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 5-32%) compared with the modified group (0%) (P = 0.014). The respective 5-year thalassemia-free survival rates were 73% (95% CI, 51-86%) and 92% (95% CI, 77-97%) (P = 0.047). Both groups showed similar incidences of grades II to IV acute graft-versus host disease. Modified protocol did not increase nonhematological toxicity or infectious complications. The modified treatment protocol effectively and safely prevented graft failure/rejection and significantly increased thalassemia-free survival of class 3 patients with thalassemia.

Application of a mindfulness program among healthcare professionals in an intensive care unit: Effect on burnout, empathy and self-compassion.

PubMed

Gracia Gozalo, R M; Ferrer Tarrés, J M; Ayora Ayora, A; Alonso Herrero, M; Amutio Kareaga, A; Ferrer Roca, R

2018-03-12

To evaluate the effect of a mindfulness training program on the levels of burnout, mindfulness, empathy and self-compassion among healthcare professionals in an Intensive Care Unit of a tertiary hospital. A longitudinal study with an intrasubject pre-post intervention design was carried out. Intensive Care Unit of a tertiary hospital. A total of 32 subjects (physicians, nurses and nursing assistants) participated in the study. A clinical session/workshop was held on the practice of mindfulness and its usefulness. The possibility of following an 8-week training program with specifically designed short guided practices supported by a virtual community based on a WhatsApp group was offered. A weekly proposal in audio and text format and daily reminders with stimulating messages of practice were sent. Various psychometric measures were self-reported: burnout (MBI), mindfulness (FFMQ), empathy (Jefferson) and self-compassion (SCS), before and after the training program. Demographic and workplace variables were also compiled. Among the factors affecting burnout, the level of emotional exhaustion decreased (-3.78 points; P=.012), mindfulness levels measured by the FFMQ were not globally modified, though "observation" and "non-reacting" factors increased. Empathy was not modified, and self-compassion levels increased (3.7 points; P=.001). Satisfaction and program adherence levels were very high. In the population described, this program showed a decrease in emotional exhaustion and an increase in self-compassion -these being factors that can produce well-being and exert a positive impact upon burnout in this vulnerable group. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier España, S.L.U. y SEMICYUC. All rights reserved.

Chemical Preparation Laboratory for IND Candidate Compounds

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-08-10

Confirmation by 500 MHz Spectroscopy of an Analogue of the Amaryllidaceae Alkaloids, Narciclasine and Pancratistatin." Bjarne Gabrielsen, Department...subdivided into modified nucleosides, alkaloids with synthetically modified precursors and analogues , and miscellaneous heterocycles that possess...or antitumor compounds were modified synthet 4cally to possibly yield novel analogues that possess enhanced activities or show a specific mode of

Evaluation of optical changes of three types of lenses: hard PMMA, hydrogel, and heparin surface modified hard lenses effected by silicone oil, used clinically as a substitute of the vitreous body.

PubMed

Prokopowicz, Magdalena; Czarnobaj, Katarzyna; Raczyńska, Krystyna; Łukasiak, Jerzy; Przyjazny, Andrzej

2002-01-01

The objective of these investigations was an in vitro evaluation whether silicone oil OXANE of viscosity 5700 cSt clinically used in eye surgery as a substitute of the vitreous body, being in contact with an artificial polymer lens used as an implant of human lens, causes the changes in its optical properties. The paper presents the results of spectral analysis of transmission of visible (VIS) radiation of three types of artificial lenses: hard PMMA, hydrogel, heparin surface modified (HSM) hard PMMA, and the same lenses damaged by YAG laser radiation with an energy increasing from 1.7 mJ to 3.7 mJ, exposed to clinically applied silicone oil. The studies were carried out, in two-week intervals, over a period of 20 weeks. Hard PMMA and HSM lenses were found not to have changed their optical properties after 20 weeks of exposure to silicone oil. The measured transmittance values were within the range of instrumental error (+/- 1%). Optical properties of hydrogel lenses exposed to silicone oils deteriorated with exposure and after 20-week exposure to silicone oil the average transmittance value decreased by about 18%, reaching its final value of 67.08 +/- 2.37% (RSD = 5.56%). A minimal decrease of the initial transmittance values was observed only for the lenses exposed to laser radiation of highest energy (3.7 mJ). After completed exposure to silicone oil, two kinds of lenses were found to have a slightly improved transmittance: hard PMMA lenses by about 4% and HSM lenses by about 2%. On the other hand, in case of hydrogel lenses the deterioration of optical properties to the extent comparable to that of hydrogel lenses not damaged by laser radiation was observed.

Enhancing the specificity of polymerase chain reaction by graphene oxide through surface modification: zwitterionic polymer is superior to other polymers with different charges.

PubMed

Zhong, Yong; Huang, Lihong; Zhang, Zhisen; Xiong, Yunjing; Sun, Liping; Weng, Jian

Graphene oxides (GOs) with different surface characteristics, such as size, reduction degree and charge, are prepared, and their effects on the specificity of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) are investigated. In this study, we demonstrate that GO with a large size and high reduction degree is superior to small and nonreduced GO in enhancing the specificity of PCR. Negatively charged polyacrylic acid (PAA), positively charged polyacrylamide (PAM), neutral polyethylene glycol (PEG) and zwitterionic polymer poly(sulfobetaine) (pSB) are used to modify GO. The PCR specificity-enhancing ability increases in the following order: GO-PAA < GO-PAM < GO-PEG < GO-pSB. Thus, zwitterionic polymer-modified GO is superior to other GO derivatives with different charges in enhancing the specificity of PCR. GO derivatives are also successfully used to enhance the specificity of PCR for the amplification of human mitochondrial DNA using blood genomic DNA as template. Molecular dynamics simulations and molecular docking are performed to elucidate the interaction between the polymers and Pfu DNA polymerase. Our data demonstrate that the size, reduction degree and surface charge of GO affect the specificity of PCR. Based on our results, zwitterionic polymer-modified GO may be used as an efficient additive for enhancing the specificity of PCR.

A modified cluster-sampling method for post-disaster rapid assessment of needs.

PubMed Central

Malilay, J.; Flanders, W. D.; Brogan, D.

1996-01-01

The cluster-sampling method can be used to conduct rapid assessment of health and other needs in communities affected by natural disasters. It is modelled on WHO's Expanded Programme on Immunization method of estimating immunization coverage, but has been modified to provide (1) estimates of the population remaining in an area, and (2) estimates of the number of people in the post-disaster area with specific needs. This approach differs from that used previously in other disasters where rapid needs assessments only estimated the proportion of the population with specific needs. We propose a modified n x k survey design to estimate the remaining population, severity of damage, the proportion and number of people with specific needs, the number of damaged or destroyed and remaining housing units, and the changes in these estimates over a period of time as part of the survey. PMID:8823962

Prevalence of the metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance index, leptin and thyroid hormone levels in the general population of Merida (Venezuela).

PubMed

Uzcátegui, Euderruh; Valery, Lenin; Uzcátegui, Lilia; Gómez Pérez, Roald; Marquina, David; Baptista, Trino

2015-06-01

The metabolic syndrome (MetSyn) is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular events, but scarce information exists about its frequency in Venezuela. In this cross-sectional study, we quantified the prevalence of the MetSyn in a probabilistic, stratified sample of 274 subjects aged > or =18 years from the Libertador district in Merida, Venezuela. Secondary outcomes were the measurement of thyroid hormones (free T4 and TSH), leptin levels, and insulin resistance index (HOMA2-IR). The frequency of MetSyn (percentage +/- 95% confidence interval) according to several diagnostic criteria was as follows: National Cholesterol Education Panel (NCEP, original): 27.4% (22.1-32.7); modified NCEP: 31.8% (26.3-37.3); International Diabetes Federation: 40.9% (35.1-46.7); Latin American Diabetes Association: 27% (21.7-32.3), and Venezuelan criteria: 31.8% (26.3-37.3). The MetSyn was more frequent in males than in females with most diagnostic criteria. The estimated prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus was 2.9% either according to the patients' self reports or to fasting glucose level found to be above 126 mg/dL. Abnormal HOMA2-IR index, free T4 and TSH (above the 95th percentile) were detected in 4.5%, 4.4% and 5.1% of the sample, respectively. Free T4 and TSH levels below the 5th percentile were detected in 4.4% and 4.7% of subjects respectively. These values are presented for comparisons with forthcoming studies in specific clinical populations. While studies are being conducted about the different definitions of the MetSyn in Venezuela, we recommend analyzing and publishing local research data with all the available criteria so as to allow comparisons with the results already reported in the literature.

Meroterpenoid and diphenyl ether derivatives from Penicillium sp. MA-37, a fungus isolated from marine mangrove rhizospheric soil.

PubMed

Zhang, Yi; Li, Xiao-Ming; Shang, Zhuo; Li, Chun-Shun; Ji, Nai-Yun; Wang, Bin-Gui

2012-11-26

Penicillium sp. MA-37, which was obtained from the rhizospheric soil of the mangrove plant Bruguiera gymnorrhiza, exhibited different chemical profiles in static and shaken fermentation modes. Three new meroterpenoid derivatives, 4,25-dehydrominiolutelide B (1), 4,25-dehydro-22-deoxyminiolutelide B (2), and isominiolutelide A (3), together with three known ones were characterized from its static fermentation, while three new diphenyl ether derivatives, namely, Δ(1('),3('))-1'-dehydroxypenicillide (4), 7-O-acetylsecopenicillide C (5), and hydroxytenellic acid B (6), along with five related metabolites were isolated from the shaken culture. The structures of these compounds were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic analysis, and the structure of compound 2 was confirmed by X-ray crystallographic analysis. The absolute configurations of 1-3 and 6 were determined by ECD and modified Mosher's method, respectively. All isolated compounds were evaluated for brine shrimp lethality and antibacterial activity.

[Study of nucleic acid structure by immunochemical methods. I. Antibodies specific for 6-sulfo-5,6-dihydro-4-methoxyaminopyrimidinone-2].

PubMed

Poverennyĭ, A M; Podgorodnichenko, V K; Monastyrskaia, G S; Bryskina, L E; Sverdlov, E D

1978-01-01

Immunization of animals with DNA modified by a mixture of bisulphite and O-methylhydroxylamine and methylated bovine serum albumin results in production of antibodies mainly reacting with modified DNA. Antibodies that react with denatured DNA were produced in minute quantity. It was shown that elicited antibodies possess a high specificity and have the ability to recognize only nucleotides with a double modification. The immune sera were fractionated by Sephadex G-200 column chromatography and the antibody activity was demonstrable in the 19S and 7S fractions. The attempts to induce synthesis of antibodies by injection of DNA modified by O-methylhydroxylamine failed.

37 CFR 1.71 - Detailed description and specification of the invention.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... enable any person skilled in the art or science to which the invention or discovery appertains, or with... specification must include a written description of the invention or discovery and of the manner and process of...

37 CFR 1.71 - Detailed description and specification of the invention.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... enable any person skilled in the art or science to which the invention or discovery appertains, or with... specification must include a written description of the invention or discovery and of the manner and process of...

Co-Introduced Functional CCR2 Potentiates In Vivo Anti-Lung Cancer Functionality Mediated by T Cells Double Gene-Modified to Express WT1-Specific T-Cell Receptor

PubMed Central

Asai, Hiroaki; Fujiwara, Hiroshi; An, Jun; Ochi, Toshiki; Miyazaki, Yukihiro; Nagai, Kozo; Okamoto, Sachiko; Mineno, Junichi; Kuzushima, Kiyotaka; Shiku, Hiroshi; Inoue, Hirofumi; Yasukawa, Masaki

2013-01-01

Background and Purpose Although gene-modification of T cells to express tumor-related antigen-specific T-cell receptor (TCR) or chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) has clinically proved promise, there still remains room to improve the clinical efficacy of re-directed T-cell based antitumor adoptive therapy. In order to achieve more objective clinical responses using ex vivo-expanded tumor-responsive T cells, the infused T cells need to show adequate localized infiltration into the tumor. Methodology/Principal Findings Human lung cancer cells variously express a tumor antigen, Wilms' Tumor gene product 1 (WT1), and an inflammatory chemokine, CCL2. However, CCR2, the relevant receptor for CCL2, is rarely expressed on activated T-lymphocytes. A HLA-A2402+ human lung cancer cell line, LK79, which expresses high amounts of both CCL2 and WT1 mRNA, was employed as a target. Normal CD8+ T cells were retrovirally gene-modified to express both CCR2 and HLA-A*2402-restricted and WT1235–243 nonapeptide-specific TCR as an effector. Anti-tumor functionality mediated by these effector cells against LK79 cells was assessed both in vitro and in vivo. Finally the impact of CCL2 on WT1 epitope-responsive TCR signaling mediated by the effector cells was studied. Introduced CCR2 was functionally validated using gene-modified Jurkat cells and human CD3+ T cells both in vitro and in vivo. Double gene-modified CD3+ T cells successfully demonstrated both CCL2-tropic tumor trafficking and cytocidal reactivity against LK79 cells in vitro and in vivo. CCL2 augmented the WT1 epitope-responsive TCR signaling shown by relevant luciferase production in double gene-modified Jurkat/MA cells to express luciferase and WT1-specific TCR, and CCL2 also dose-dependently augmented WT1 epitope-responsive IFN-γ production and CD107a expression mediated by these double gene-modifiedCD3+ T cells. Conclusion/Significance Introduction of the CCL2/CCR2 axis successfully potentiated in vivo anti-lung cancer reactivity mediated by CD8+ T cells double gene-modified to express WT1-specific TCR and CCR2 not only via CCL2-tropic tumor trafficking, but also CCL2-enhanced WT1-responsiveness. PMID:23441216

37 CFR 1.75 - Claim(s).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 37 Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Claim(s). 1.75 Section 1.75... GENERAL RULES OF PRACTICE IN PATENT CASES National Processing Provisions Specification § 1.75 Claim(s). (a.... (35 U.S.C. 6; 15 U.S.C. 1113, 1126) [31 FR 12922, Oct. 4, 1966, as amended at 36 FR 12690, July 3...

Phospholipase D2 Is Involved in the Formation of Golgi Tubules and ArfGAP1 Recruitment

PubMed Central

Martínez-Martínez, Narcisa; Martínez-Alonso, Emma; Ballesta, José; Martínez-Menárguez, José A.

2014-01-01

Lipids and lipid-modifying enzymes play a key role in the biogenesis, maintenance and fission of transport carriers in the secretory and endocytic pathways. In the present study we demonstrate that phosphatidic acid generated by phospholipase D2 (PLD2) is involved in the formation of Golgi tubules. The main evidence to support this is: 1) inhibitors of phosphatidic acid formation and PLD2 depletion inhibit the formation of tubules containing resident enzymes and regulators of intra-Golgi transport in a low temperature (15°C) model of Golgi tubulation but do not affect brefeldin A-induced tubules, 2) inhibition of PLD2 enzymatic activity and PLD2 depletion in cells cultured under physiological conditions (37°C) induce the formation of tubules specifically containing Golgi matrix proteins, and, 3) over-expression of PLD2 induces the formation of a tubular network. In addition, it was found that the generation of this lipid by the isoenzyme is necessary for ArfGAP1 recruitment to Golgi membranes. These results suggest that both proteins are involved in the molecular mechanisms which drive the formation of different types of Golgi tubules. PMID:25354038

Procedure-related musculoskeletal symptoms in gastrointestinal endoscopists in Korea

PubMed Central

Byun, Young Hye; Lee, Jun Haeng; Park, Moon Kyung; Song, Ji Hyun; Min, Byung-Hoon; Chang, Dong Kyung; Kim, Young-Ho; Son, Hee Jung; Rhee, Poong-Lyul; Kim, Jae J; Rhee, Jong Chul; Hwang, Ji Hye; Park, Dong Il; Shim, Sang Goon; Sung, In Kyung

2008-01-01

AIM: To determine the prevalence and risk factors of work-related musculoskeletal disorders in gastrointestinal endoscopists in Korea. METHODS: A survey of musculoskeletal symptoms, using a self-administered questionnaire, was conducted on 55 endoscopists practicing in general hospitals or health promotion centers. RESULTS: Forty-nine (89.1%) endoscopists reported musculoskeletal pain on at least one anatomic location and 37 (67.3%) endoscopists complained of pain at rest. Twenty-six (47.3%) endoscopists had severe musculoskeletal pain defined as a visual analogue score greater than 5.5. Factors related to the development of severe pain were (1) standing position during upper endoscopy, (2) specific posture/habit during endoscopic procedures, and (3) multiple symptomatic areas. Finger pain was more common in beginners, whereas shoulder pain was more common in experienced endoscopists. Sixteen percent of symptomatic endoscopists have modified their practice or reduced the number of endoscopic examinations. Only a few symptomatic endoscopists had sought professional consultation with related specialists. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of musculoskeletal pain in endoscopists is very high. The location of pain was different between beginners and experienced endoscopists. Measures for the prevention and adequate management of endoscopy-related musculoskeletal symptoms are necessary. PMID:18666326

Development and Measurement of Guidelines-Based Quality Indicators of Caesarean Section Care in the Netherlands: A RAND-Modified Delphi Procedure and Retrospective Medical Chart Review

PubMed Central

de Boer, Karin; Burggraaf, Henriëtte; Derks, Jan B.; van Dijk, Det; van Dillen, Jeroen; Dirksen, Carmen D.; Duvekot, Johannes J.; Franx, Arie; Hasaart, Tom H. M.; Huisjes, Anjoke J. M.; Kolkman, Diny; Kwee, Anneke; Mol, Ben W.; van Pampus, Mariëlle G.; de Roon-Immerzeel, Alieke; van Roosmalen, Jos J. M.; Roumen, Frans J. M. E.; Smid-Koopman, Ellen; Spaans, Wilbert A.; Visser, Harry; van Wijngaarden, Wim J.; Willekes, Christine; Wouters, Maurice G. A. J.

2016-01-01

Background There is an ongoing discussion on the rising CS rate worldwide. Suboptimal guideline adherence may be an important contributor to this rise. Before improvement of care can be established, optimal CS care in different settings has to be defined. This study aimed to develop and measure quality indicators to determine guideline adherence and identify target groups for improvement of care with direct effect on caesarean section (CS) rates. Method Eighteen obstetricians and midwives participated in an expert panel for systematic CS quality indicator development according to the RAND-modified Delphi method. A multi-center study was performed and medical charts of 1024 women with a CS and a stratified and weighted randomly selected group of 1036 women with a vaginal delivery were analysed. Quality indicator frequency and adherence were scored in 2060 women with a CS or vaginal delivery. Results The expert panel developed 16 indicators on planned CS and 11 indicators on unplanned CS. Indicator adherence was calculated, defined as the number of women in a specific obstetrical situation in which care was performed as recommended in both planned and unplanned CS settings. The most frequently occurring obstetrical situations with low indicator adherence were: 1) suspected fetal distress (frequency 17%, adherence 46%), 2) non-progressive labour (frequency 12%, CS performed too early in over 75%), 3) continuous support during labour (frequency 88%, adherence 37%) and 4) previous CS (frequency 12%), with adequate counselling in 15%. Conclusions We identified four concrete target groups for improvement of obstetrical care, which can be used as a starting point to reduce CS rates worldwide. PMID:26783742

Relationship of Body Anthropometry with Cardiovascular Risk Factors in a Random Community Sample: The Phoenix Lifestyle Project.

PubMed

Duki, Yajna; Naidoo, Datshana P

2016-03-01

We studied the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) among Indians from a low-income community and evaluated the relationship between physical behavior patterns and anthropometric measures and the presence of MetS. The modified WHO STEPS questionnaire was used to collect data from a randomized sample of 1154 subjects from the Indian community of Phoenix, Durban. MetS was classified according to the harmonized criteria. The median age of the sample was 47 (37-55) years, and 72% were predominantly females. There was a high prevalence of elevated body mass index (BMI) in 757 subjects (66%), which increased to 901 subjects (82%) when the ethnic-specific Asian cutoff (BMI ≥ 23) was applied. Overall increase in waist circumferences was noted from 60% to 79% when ethnic cutoffs were applied. Vigorous exercise was associated with a significant decrease in waist and BMI measurements (P < 0.0001). The prevalence of MetS increased from 30% and 57% (NCEP) to 45% and 60% in males and females, respectively, when the harmonized criteria (IDF and WHO) were applied. Fasting insulin and total cholesterol emerged as independent determinants of MetS for both genders. Neck circumference and HbA1c were also significant predictors of MetS in males. In females, midarm circumference (IDF/WHO) and HbA1c (modified NCEP) emerged as additional predictors of MetS. There was a high prevalence of obesity and MetS in this sample, related to sedentary behavior patterns. Neck and arm circumferences as well as total cholesterol may also serve as screening measures to increase the detection rate of MetS.

37 CFR 1.71 - Detailed description and specification of the invention.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... TRADEMARK OFFICE, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE GENERAL RULES OF PRACTICE IN PATENT CASES National Processing... Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all (copyright or mask work... 37 Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights 1 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Detailed description and...

Locating a modifier gene of Ovum mutant through crosses between DDK and C57BL/6J inbred strains in mice.

PubMed

Tan, Jing; Song, Gen Di; Song, Jia Sheng; Ren, Shi Hao; Li, Chun Li; Zheng, Zhen Yu; Zhao, Wei Dong

2016-06-01

A striking infertile phenotype has been discovered in the DDK strain of mouse. The DDK females are usually infertile when crossed with males of other inbred strains, whereas DDK males exhibit normal fertility in reciprocal crosses. This phenomenon is caused by mutation in the ovum (Om) locus on chromosome 11 and known as the DDK syndrome. Previously, some research groups reported that the embryonic mortality deviated from the semilethal rate in backcrosses between heterozygous (Om/+) females and males of other strains. This embryonic mortality exhibited an aggravated trend with increasing background genes of other strains. These results indicated that some modifier genes of Om were present in other strains. In the present study, a population of N₂2 (Om/+) females from the backcrosses between C57BL/6J (B6) and F₁ (B6♀ × DDK♂) was used to map potential modifier genes of Om. Quantitative trait locus showed that a major locus, namely Amom1 (aggravate modifier gene of Om 1), was located at the middle part of chromosome 9 in mice. The Amom1 could increase the expressivity of Om gene, thereby aggravating embryonic lethality when heterozygous (Om/+) females mated with males of B6 strain. Further, the 1.5 LOD-drop analysis indicated that the confidence interval was between 37.54 and 44.46 cM, ~6.92 cM. Amom1 is the first modifier gene of Om in the B6 background.

Predictors of Trajectories of Epilepsy-Specific Quality of Life among Children Newly Diagnosed with Epilepsy

PubMed Central

Ramsey, Rachelle R.; Loiselle, Kristin; Rausch, Joseph R.; Harrison, Jordan; Modi, Avani C.

2016-01-01

Objective To identify two year trajectories of epilepsy-specific health-related quality of life (HRQOL) among children newly diagnosed with epilepsy and to evaluate the predictive value of a comprehensive set of medical, psychosocial, and family factors. Methods Ninety-four children with epilepsy (8.14 ± 2.37 years of age and 63% male) and their caregivers participated in this study. Caregivers completed the Quality of Life in Childhood Epilepsy Questionnaire (QOLCE) and measures of psychological and family functioning at one month post-diagnosis. The QOLCE was also given at eight additional time points during the subsequent two years as a part of a large observational study in children with epilepsy. Adherence data was collected via MEMS TrackCaps and medical information was collected through chart review. Results Unique trajectories were identified for the overall QOLCE scale, as well as the subscales. Most trajectory models for the QOLCE subscales contained at least one at-risk trajectory for children, indicating that there is a subgroup of children experiencing poor long-term HRQOL. Health-related quality of life trajectories remained predominantly stable during the two year period following treatment initiation. Number of AEDs, Internalizing Problems, and Externalizing Problems emerged as the most consistent predictors across the HRQOL domains. Significance Medical and psychosocial interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral strategies, should target modifiable factors (e.g., internalizing symptoms, externalizing symptoms, number of AEDs trialed) shortly after diagnosis to improve HRQOL for children with epilepsy over the course of their disease. PMID:26974247

3-(3-amino-3-carboxypropyl)-5,6-dihydrouridine is one of two novel post-transcriptional modifications in tRNALys(UUU) from Trypanosoma brucei.

PubMed

Krog, Jesper S; Español, Yaiza; Giessing, Anders M B; Dziergowska, Agnieszka; Malkiewicz, Andrzej; Ribas de Pouplana, Lluís; Kirpekar, Finn

2011-12-01

tRNA is the most heavily modified of all RNA types, with typically 10-20% of the residues being post-transcriptionally altered. Unravelling the modification pattern of a tRNA is a challenging task; there are 92 currently known tRNA modifications, many of which are chemically similar. Furthermore, the tRNA has to be investigated with single-nucleotide resolution in order to ensure complete mapping of all modifications. In the present work, we characterized tRNA(Lys)(UUU) from Trypanosoma brucei, and provide a complete overview of its post-transcriptional modifications. The first step was MALDI-TOF MS of two independent digests of the tRNA, with RNase A and RNase T1, respectively. This revealed digestion products harbouring mass-changing modifications. Next, the modifications were mapped at the nucleotide level in the RNase products by tandem MS. Comparison with the sequence of the unmodified tRNA revealed the modified residues. The modifications were further characterized at the nucleoside level by chromatographic retention time and fragmentation pattern upon higher-order tandem MS. Phylogenetic comparison with modifications in tRNA(Lys) from other organisms was used through the entire analysis. We identified modifications on 12 nucleosides in tRNA(Lys)(UUU), where U47 exhibited a novel modification, 3-(3-amino-3-carboxypropyl)-5,6-dihydrouridine, based on identical chromatographic retention and MS fragmentation as the synthetic nucleoside. A37 was observed in two versions: a minor fraction with the previously described 2-methylthio-N(6)-threonylcarbamoyl-modification, and a major fraction with A37 being modified by a 294.0-Da moiety. The latter product is the largest adenosine modification reported so far, and we discuss its nature and origin. © 2011 The Authors Journal compilation © 2011 FEBS.

Clinical signs suggestive of pharyngeal dysphagia in preschool children with cerebral palsy.

PubMed

Benfer, Katherine A; Weir, Kelly A; Bell, Kristie L; Ware, Robert S; Davies, Peter S W; Boyd, Roslyn N

2015-03-01

This study aimed to determine the discriminative validity, reproducibility, and prevalence of clinical signs suggestive of pharyngeal dysphagia according to gross motor function in children with cerebral palsy (CP). It was a cross-sectional population-based study of 130 children diagnosed with CP at 18-36 months (mean=27.4, 81 males) and 40 children with typical development (TD, mean=26.2, 18 males). Sixteen signs suggestive of pharyngeal phase impairment were directly observed in a videoed mealtime by a speech pathologist, and reported by parents on a questionnaire. Gross motor function was classified using the Gross Motor Function Classification System. The study found that 67.7% of children had clinical signs, and this increased with poorer gross motor function (OR=1.7, p<0.01). Parents reported clinical signs in 46.2% of children, with 60% agreement with direct clinical mealtime assessment (kappa=0.2, p<0.01). The most common signs on direct assessment were coughing (44.7%), multiple swallows (25.2%), gurgly voice (20.3%), wet breathing (18.7%) and gagging (11.4%). 37.5% of children with TD had clinical signs, mostly observed on fluids. Dysphagia cut-points were modified to exclude a single cough on fluids, with a modified prevalence estimate proposed as 50.8%. Clinical signs suggestive of pharyngeal dysphagia are common in children with CP, even those with ambulatory CP. Parent-report on 16 specific signs remains a feasible screening method. While coughing was consistently identified by clinicians, it may not reflect children's regular performance, and was not sufficiently discriminative in children aged 18-36 months. Crown Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Method of detecting luminescent target ions with modified magnetic microspheres

DOEpatents

Shkrob, Ilya A; Kaminski, Michael D

2014-05-13

This invention provides methods of using modified magnetic microspheres to extract target ions from a sample in order to detect their presence in a microfluidic environment. In one or more embodiments, the microspheres are modified with molecules on the surface that allow the target ions in the sample to form complexes with specific ligand molecules on the microsphere surface. In one or more embodiments, the microspheres are modified with molecules that sequester the target ions from the sample, but specific ligand molecules in solution subsequently re-extract the target ions from the microspheres into the solution, where the complexes form independent of the microsphere surface. Once the complexes form, they are exposed to an excitation wavelength light source suitable for exciting the target ion to emit a luminescent signal pattern. Detection of the luminescent signal pattern allows for determination of the presence of the target ions in the sample.

Development of a qualitative real-time PCR method to detect 19 targets for identification of genetically modified organisms.

PubMed

Peng, Cheng; Wang, Pengfei; Xu, Xiaoli; Wang, Xiaofu; Wei, Wei; Chen, Xiaoyun; Xu, Junfeng

2016-01-01

As the amount of commercially available genetically modified organisms (GMOs) grows recent years, the diversity of target sequences for molecular detection techniques are eagerly needed. Considered as the gold standard for GMO analysis, the real-time PCR technology was optimized to produce a high-throughput GMO screening method. With this method we can detect 19 transgenic targets. The specificity of the assays was demonstrated to be 100 % by the specific amplification of DNA derived from reference material from 20 genetically modified crops and 4 non modified crops. Furthermore, most assays showed a very sensitive detection, reaching the limit of ten copies. The 19 assays are the most frequently used genetic elements present in GM crops and theoretically enable the screening of the known GMO described in Chinese markets. Easy to use, fast and cost efficient, this method approach fits the purpose of GMO testing laboratories.

21 CFR 102.37 - Mixtures of edible fat or oil and olive oil.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 2 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Mixtures of edible fat or oil and olive oil. 102... for Specific Nonstandardized Foods § 102.37 Mixtures of edible fat or oil and olive oil. The common or... olive oil shall be as follows: (a) A descriptive name for the product meeting the requirements of § 102...

21 CFR 102.37 - Mixtures of edible fat or oil and olive oil.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 2 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Mixtures of edible fat or oil and olive oil. 102... for Specific Nonstandardized Foods § 102.37 Mixtures of edible fat or oil and olive oil. The common or... olive oil shall be as follows: (a) A descriptive name for the product meeting the requirements of § 102...

Spatial Working Memory Deficits in Male Rats Following Neonatal Hypoxic Ischemic Brain Injury Can Be Attenuated by Task Modifications

PubMed Central

Smith, Amanda L.; Hill, Courtney A.; Alexander, Michelle; Szalkowski, Caitlin E.; Chrobak, James J.; Rosenkrantz, Ted S.; Fitch, R. Holly

2014-01-01

Hypoxia-ischemia (HI; reduction in blood/oxygen supply) is common in infants with serious birth complications, such as prolonged labor and cord prolapse, as well as in infants born prematurely (<37 weeks gestational age; GA). Most often, HI can lead to brain injury in the form of cortical and subcortical damage, as well as later cognitive/behavioral deficits. A common domain of impairment is working memory, which can be associated with heightened incidence of developmental disorders. To further characterize these clinical issues, the current investigation describes data from a rodent model of HI induced on postnatal (P)7, an age comparable to a term (GA 36–38) human. Specifically, we sought to assess working memory using an eight-arm radial water maze paradigm. Study 1 used a modified version of the paradigm, which requires a step-wise change in spatial memory via progressively more difficult tasks, as well as multiple daily trials for extra learning opportunity. Results were surprising and revealed a small HI deficit only for the final and most difficult condition, when a delay before test trial was introduced. Study 2 again used the modified radial arm maze, but presented the most difficult condition from the start, and only one daily test trial. Here, results were expected and revealed a robust and consistent HI deficit across all weeks. Combined results indicate that male HI rats can learn a difficult spatial working memory task if it is presented in a graded multi-trial format, but performance is poor and does not appear to remediate if the task is presented with high initial memory demand. Male HI rats in both studies displayed impulsive characteristics throughout testing evidenced as reduced choice latencies despite more errors. This aspect of behavioral results is consistent with impulsiveness as a core symptom of ADHD—a diagnosis common in children with HI insult. Overall findings suggest that task specific behavioral modifications are crucial to accommodating memory deficits in children suffering from cognitive impairments following neonatal HI. PMID:24961760

Efficacy of indigenous soil microbes in arsenic mitigation from contaminated alluvial soil of India.

PubMed

Majumder, Aparajita; Bhattacharyya, Kallol; Kole, S C; Ghosh, Sagarmoy

2013-08-01

Selected arsenic-volatilizing indigenous soil bacteria were isolated and their ability to form volatile arsenicals from toxic inorganic arsenic was assessed. Approximately 37 % of AsIII (under aerobic conditions) and 30 % AsV (under anaerobic conditions) were volatilized by new bacterial isolates in 3 days. In contrast to genetically modified organism, indigenous soil bacteria was capable of removing 16 % of arsenic from contaminated soil during 60 days incubation period while applied with a low-cost organic nutrient supplement (farm yard manure).

Failure behavior of glass ionomer cement under Hertzian indentation.

PubMed

Wang, Yan; Darvell, B W

2008-09-01

To investigate the load-bearing capacity and failure mode of various types of glass ionomer cement (GIC) under Hertzian indentation, exploring the relationship between the failure behavior and formulation, and examining claims of filler-reinforcement of GIC. Discs 2mm thick, 10mm diameter, 8-18 replicates, were fabricated for two filler-reinforced GICs, four unmodified and unreinforced GICs, and four resin-modified GICs, with a dental silver amalgam and a filled-resin restorative material for comparison. Testing was at 23 degrees C, wet, after 7d storage at 37 degrees C in artificial saliva at pH 6, using a 20mm diameter hard steel ball and filled-nylon substrate (E: 10GPa). First failure was detected acoustically; mode was determined visually. At least 1/3 of specimens in each case were examined under scanning electronic microscope for corroboration. Reinforced and unmodified-unreinforced GICs were indistinguishable by failure load (one-way analysis of variance, P=0.425, overall 260+/-70N) and mode. Failure loads for resin-modified GICs were 360-1150N, amalgam approximately 680N, and filled resin approximately 1200N. Resin-modified GICs tended to be tougher (incomplete fracture), all others gave complete fracture (radial cracking). The stronger materials (two resin-modified GICs and filled resin) showed some cone cracking. While resin-modified GICs showed various extents of increase of failure load over that of the plain GICs, consistent with the hybrid chemistry, filler-reinforcement was not evident for the two claimed products, consistent with structural and theoretical expectations.

Genetically modified yeast species, and fermentation processes using genetically modified yeast

DOEpatents

Rajgarhia, Vineet; Koivuranta, Kari; Penttila, Merja; Ilmen, Marja; Suominen, Pirkko; Aristidou, Aristos; Miller, Christopher Kenneth; Olson, Stacey; Ruohonen, Laura

2013-05-14

Yeast cells are transformed with an exogenous xylose isomerase gene. Additional genetic modifications enhance the ability of the transformed cells to ferment xylose to ethanol or other desired fermentation products. Those modifications include deletion of non-specific or specific aldose reductase gene(s), deletion of xylitol dehydrogenase gene(s) and/or overexpression of xylulokinase.

Genetically modified yeast species, and fermentation processes using genetically modified yeast

DOEpatents

Rajgarhia, Vineet; Koivuranta, Kari; Penttila, Merja; Ilmen, Marja; Suominen, Pirkko; Aristidou, Aristos; Miller, Christopher Kenneth; Olson, Stacey; Ruohonen, Laura

2017-09-12

Yeast cells are transformed with an exogenous xylose isomerase gene. Additional genetic modifications enhance the ability of the transformed cells to ferment xylose to ethanol or other desired fermentation products. Those modifications include deletion of non-specific or specific aldose reductase gene(s), deletion of xylitol dehydrogenase gene(s) and/or overexpression of xylulokinase.

Genetically modified yeast species and fermentation processes using genetically modified yeast

DOEpatents

Rajgarhia, Vineet [Kingsport, TN; Koivuranta, Kari [Helsinki, FI; Penttila, Merja [Helsinki, FI; Ilmen, Marja [Helsinki, FI; Suominen, Pirkko [Maple Grove, MN; Aristidou, Aristos [Maple Grove, MN; Miller, Christopher Kenneth [Cottage Grove, MN; Olson, Stacey [St. Bonifacius, MN; Ruohonen, Laura [Helsinki, FI

2011-05-17

Yeast cells are transformed with an exogenous xylose isomerase gene. Additional genetic modifications enhance the ability of the transformed cells to ferment xylose to ethanol or other desired fermentation products. Those modifications', include deletion of non-specific or specific aldose reductase gene(s), deletion of xylitol dehydrogenase gene(s) and/or overexpression of xylulokinase.

Genetically modified yeast species, and fermentation processes using genetically modified yeast

DOEpatents

Rajgarhia, Vineet; Koivuranta, Kari; Penttila, Merja; Ilmen, Marja; Suominen, Pirkko; Aristidou, Aristos; Miller, Christopher Kenneth; Olson, Stacey; Ruohonen, Laura

2016-08-09

Yeast cells are transformed with an exogenous xylose isomerase gene. Additional genetic modifications enhance the ability of the transformed cells to ferment xylose to ethanol or other desired fermentation products. Those modifications include deletion of non-specific or specific aldose reductase gene(s), deletion of xylitol dehydrogenase gene(s) and/or overexpression of xylulokinase.

Specific capture, recovery and culture of cancer cells using oriented antibody-modified polystyrene chips coated with agarose film.

PubMed

Jeong, Jiyun; Lee, Yeolin; Yoo, Yeongeun; Lee, Myung Kyu

2018-02-01

Agarose gel can be used for three dimensional (3D) cell culture because it prevents cell attachment. The dried agarose film coated on a culture plate also protected cell attachment and allowed 3D growth of cancer cells. We developed an efficient method for agarose film coating on an oxygen-plasma treated micropost polystyrene chip prepared by an injection molding process. The agarose film was modified to maleimide or Ni-NTA groups for covalent or cleavable attachment of photoactivatable Fc-specific antibody binding proteins (PFcBPs) via their N-terminal cysteine residues or 6xHis tag, respectively. The antibodies photocrosslinked onto the PFcBP-modified chips specifically captured the target cells without nonspecific binding, and the captured cells grew 3D modes on the chips. The captured cells on the cleavable antibody-modified chips were easily recovered by treatment of commercial trypsin-EDTA solution. Under fluidic conditions using an antibody-modified micropost chip, the cells were mainly captured on the micropost walls of the chip rather than on the bottom of it. The presented method will also be applicable for immobilization of oriented antibodies on various microfluidic chips with different structures. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Novel hydroxyl radical scavenging antioxidant activity assay for water-soluble antioxidants using a modified CUPRAC method.

PubMed

Bektaşoğlu, Burcu; Esin Celik, Saliha; Ozyürek, Mustafa; Güçlü, Kubilay; Apak, Reşat

2006-07-07

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as superoxide anion, hydroxyl ((*)OH), peroxyl, and alkoxyl radicals may attack biological macromolecules giving rise to oxidative stress-originated diseases. Since (*)OH is very short-lived, secondary products resulting from (*)OH attack to various probes are measured. Although the measurement of aromatic hydroxylation with HPLC/electrochemical detection is more specific than the low-yield TBARS test, it requires sophisticated instrumentation. As a more convenient and less costly alternative, we used p-aminobenzoate, 2,4- and 3,5-dimethoxybenzoate probes for detecting hydroxyl radicals generated from an equivalent mixture of Fe(II)+EDTA with hydrogen peroxide. The produced hydroxyl radicals attacked both the probe and the water-soluble antioxidants in 37 degrees C-incubated solutions for 2h. The CUPRAC (i.e., our original method for total antioxidant capacity assay) absorbance of the ethylacetate extract due to the reduction of Cu(II)-neocuproine reagent by the hydroxylated probe decreased in the presence of (*)OH scavengers, the difference being proportional to the scavenging ability of the tested compound. A rate constant for the reaction of the scavenger with hydroxyl radical can be deduced from the inhibition of color formation. The second-order rate constants of the scavengers were determined with competition kinetics by means of a linear plot of A(0)/A as a function of C(scavenger)/C(probe), where A(0) and A are the CUPRAC absorbances of the system in the absence and presence of scavenger, respectively, and C is the molar concentration of relevant species. The 2,4- and 3,5-dimethoxybenzoates were the best probes in terms of linearity and sensitivity. Iodide, metabisulfite, hexacyanoferrate(II), thiourea, formate, and dimethyl sulfoxide were shown by the modified CUPRAC assay to be more effective scavengers than mannitol, glucose, lysine, and simple alcohols, as in the TBARS assay. The developed method is less lengthy, more specific, and of a higher yield than the classical TBARS assay. The hydroxyl radical scavenging rate constants of ascorbic acid, formate, and hexacyanoferrate(II) that caused interference in other assays could be easily found with the proposed procedure.

Attenuated activation of macrophage TLR9 by DNA from virulent mycobacteria.

PubMed

Kiemer, Alexandra K; Senaratne, Ryan H; Hoppstädter, Jessica; Diesel, Britta; Riley, Lee W; Tabeta, Koichi; Bauer, Stefan; Beutler, Bruce; Zuraw, Bruce L

2009-01-01

Alveolar macrophages are the first line of host defence against mycobacteria, but an insufficient host response allows survival of bacteria within macrophages. We aimed to investigate the role of Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) activation in macrophage defence against mycobacteria. Human in vitro differentiated macrophages as well as human and mouse alveolar macrophages showed TLR9 mRNA and protein expression. The cells were markedly activated by DNA isolated from attenuated mycobacterial strains (H37Ra and Mycobacterium bovis BCG) as assessed by measuring cytokine expression by real-time PCR, whereas synthetic phosphorothioate-modified oligonucleotides had a much lower potency to activate human macrophages. Intracellular replication of H37Ra was higher in macrophages isolated from TLR9-deficient mice than in macrophages from wild-type mice, whereas H37Rv showed equal survival in cells from wild-type or mutant mice. Increased bacterial survival in mouse macrophages was accompanied by altered cytokine production as determined by Luminex bead assays. In vivo infection experiments also showed differential cytokine production in TLR9-deficient mice compared to wild-type animals. Both human monocyte-derived macrophages as well as human alveolar macrophages showed reduced activation upon treatment with DNA isolated from bacteria from virulent (M. bovis and H37Rv) compared to attenuated mycobacteria. We suggest attenuated TLR9 activation contributes to the insufficient host response against virulent mycobacteria. Copyright 2008 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Deconstructing Quinoline-Class Antimalarials to Identify Fundamental Physicochemical Properties of Beta-Hematin Crystal Growth Inhibitors.

PubMed

Olafson, Katy N; Nguyen, Tam Q; Vekilov, Peter G; Rimer, Jeffrey D

2017-10-04

A versatile approach to control crystallization involves the use of modifiers, which are additives that interact with crystal surfaces and alter their growth rates. Elucidating a modifier's binding specificity to anisotropic crystal surfaces is a ubiquitous challenge that is critical to their design. In this study, we select hematin, a byproduct of malaria parasites, as a model system to examine the complementarity of modifiers (i.e., antimalarial drugs) to β-hematin crystal surfaces. We divide two antimalarials, chloroquine and amodiaquine, into segments consisting of a quinoline base, common to both drugs, and side chains that differentiate their modes of action. Using a combination of scanning probe microscopy, bulk crystallization, and analytical techniques, we show that the base and side chain work synergistically to reduce the rate of hematin crystallization. In contrast to general observations that modifiers retain their function upon segmentation, we show that the constituents do not act as modifiers. A systematic study of quinoline isomers and analogues shows how subtle rearrangement and removal of functional moieties can create effective constituents from previously ineffective modifiers, along with tuning their inhibitory modes of action. These findings highlight the importance of specific functional moieties in drug compounds, leading to an improved understanding of modifier-crystal interactions that could prove to be applicable to the design of new antimalarials. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Assessment of humoral and cell-mediated immune response to measles-mumps-rubella vaccine viruses among patients with asthma.

PubMed

Yoo, Kwang Ha; Agarwal, Kanishtha; Butterfield, Michael; Jacobson, Robert M; Poland, Gregory A; Juhn, Young J

2010-01-01

Little is known about the influence of asthma status on humoral and cell-mediated immune responses to measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine viruses. We compared the virus-specific IgG levels and lymphoproliferative response of peripheral blood mononuclear cells to MMR vaccine viruses between asthmatic and nonasthmatic patients. The study subjects included 342 healthy children aged 12-18 years who had received two doses of the MMR vaccine. We ascertained asthma status by applying predetermined criteria. Of the 342 subjects, 230 were available for this study of whom 25 were definite asthmatic patients (10.9%) and the rest of subjects were nonasthmatic patients. The mean of the log-transformed lymphoproliferative responses between definite asthma and nonasthma who had a family history of asthma were for measles, 0.92 ± 0.31 versus 1.54 ± 0.17 (p = 0.125); for mumps, 0.98 ± 0.64 versus 2.20 ± 0.21 (p = 0.035); and for rubella, 0.12 ± 0.37 versus 0.97 ± 0.16 (p = 0.008), respectively, adjusting for the duration between the first MMR vaccination and determination of the immune responses. There were no such differences among children without a family history of asthma. MMR virus-specific IgG levels were not different between study subjects with or without asthma. The study findings suggest asthmatic patients may have a suboptimal cell-mediated immune response to MMR vaccine viruses and a family history of asthma modifies this effect.