Solid State Compressor

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-01-20

Air Products and Chemicals , Inc . CONTRACT NO.: N00014-83-C-0394...performed by Air Products and Chemicals , Inc . 2.0 TASK 2. MECHANICAL SIMULATOR: SUBTASK 2.1, ONE CELL SIMULATOR 2.1 Purpose The overall goal of this...refrigerant 12 (Freon 12) • 4.5 Test final system, ten cell compressor, and cryostat APCI ., ’ APCI - Air Products and Chemicals , Inc . CPI -

Organizational and operational models for certificate management entities as part of the connected vehicle program : revised working paper (task 2).

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1997-01-01

This report summarizes the efforts performed under subtasks D&E of the ATIS Communications Technology Alternatives Task for the FHWA Turner Fairbank Highway Research Center. Tasks D & E were to facilitate further examination of wireless communication...

PoroTomo Subtask 3.2 Data files from the Distributed Acoustic Sensing experiment at Garner Valley, California

DOE Data Explorer

Chelsea Lancelle

2013-09-11

In September 2013, an experiment using Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) was conducted at Garner Valley, a test site of the University of California Santa Barbara (Lancelle et al., 2014). This submission includes all DAS data recorded during the experiment. The sampling rate for all files is 1000 samples per second. Any files with the same filename but ending in _01, _02, etc. represent sequential files from the same test. Locations of the sources are plotted on the basemap in GDR submission 481, titled: "PoroTomo Subtask 3.2 Sample data from a Distributed Acoustic Sensing experiment at Garner Valley, California (PoroTomo Subtask 3.2)." Lancelle, C., N. Lord, H. Wang, D. Fratta, R. Nigbor, A. Chalari, R. Karaulanov, J. Baldwin, and E. Castongia (2014), Directivity and Sensitivity of Fiber-Optic Cable Measuring Ground Motion using a Distributed Acoustic Sensing Array (abstract # NS31C-3935), AGU Fall Meeting. 
https://agu.confex.com/agu/fm1/meetingapp.cgi#Paper/19828 The e-poster is available at: https://agu.confex.com/data/handout/agu/fm14/Paper_19828_handout_696_0.pdf

Early Detection of NSCLC Using Stromal Markers in Peripheral Blood

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-09-01

circulating myeloid cells, flow cytometry, RNA -sequencing, expression profiling. 3. ACCOMPLISHMENTS:  What were the major goals of the project...Subtask 2: Flow cytometry sorting of circulating myeloid cells. Subtask 3: RNA -Sequencing Subtask 4: RNA -seq data analysis Subtask 5: Feasible RT-PCR...accomplished the patient recruitment, flow cytometry sorting of circulating myeloid cells, RNA -sequencing of the samples. During the RNA - seq data analysis, we

Flexible Regenerative Nanoelectronics for Advanced Peripheral Neural Interfaces

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-10-01

these materials will be developed based on 3D printing . Page 4 Task 3. Construct nerve guidance scaffolds comprising of embedded mesh electrodes with...Develop photo mask patterning methods. 1-9 In progress 50% Subtask 2.2.2. Develop 3D printing patterning methods. 9-18 9/1/2017 Milestone(s...research into patterning techniques, we found that 10% gelatin methacrylate (GelMA) base gel was the best for performing 3D printing of the gels

Beam and Plasma Physics Research

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-06-01

La di~raDy in high power microwave computations and thi-ory and high energy plasma computations and theory. The HPM computations concentrated on...2.1 REPORT INDEX 7 2.2 TASK AREA 2: HIGH-POWER RF EMISSION AND CHARGED- PARTICLE BEAM PHYSICS COMPUTATION , MODELING AND THEORY 10 2.2.1 Subtask 02-01...Vulnerability of Space Assets 22 2.2.6 Subtask 02-06, Microwave Computer Program Enhancements 22 2.2.7 Subtask 02-07, High-Power Microwave Transvertron Design 23

Rapid Response Research and Development (R&D) for the Aerospace Systems Directorate. Delivery Order 0021: Engineering Research and Technical Analyses of Advanced Airbreathing Propulsion Fuels, Subtask: Engine and Pump Studies Utilizing JP-8 and Alcohol-to-Jet (ATJ) Blends

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-08-01

41 Figure A-21. Lubricant Soot Accumulation...ASTM D4739 Total Base Number ASTM D664 Total Acid Number ASTM D445 Kinematic Viscosity @ 100°C ASTM D4052 Density ASTM TGA SOOT TGA Soot ASTM E168...118.85 134.01 145.47 169.22 187.43 342.42 Nitration (Abs./cm) E168 FTIR 0 6.67 10.91 16.54 19.04 25.79 35.12 24.03 23.75 52.31 93.9 Soot (%) Soot TGA

Lipid changes and tolerability in a cohort of adult HIV-infected patients who switched to rilpivirine/emtricitabine/tenofovir due to intolerance to previous combination ART: the PRO-STR study.

PubMed

Ocampo, A; Domingo, P; Fernández, P; Diz, J; Barberá, J R; Sepúlveda, M A; Salgado, X; Rodriguez, M; Santos, J; Yzusqui, M; Mayorga, M I; Lorenzo, J F; Bahamonde, A; Bachiller, P; Martínez, E; Rozas, N; Torres, C; Muñoz, A; Casado, A; Podzamczer, D

2018-05-16

To analyse lipid changes and tolerability in a cohort of HIV-infected patients who switched their antiretroviral regimens to rilpivirine/emtricitabine/tenofovir (RPV/FTC/TDF) in a real-world setting. PRO-STR is a 48 week prospective observational post-authorization study in 25 hospitals. Patients with a viral load <1000 copies/mL, receiving at least 12 months of combination ART (cART), with constant posology for at least the prior 3 months, were categorized according to previous treatment [NNRTI or ritonavir-boosted PI (PI/r)]. Analytical tests were performed at the baseline visit, between week 16 and week 32, and at week 48. A total of 303 patients were included (mean age 46.6 years; male 74.0%; previous treatment 74.7% NNRTI and 25.3% PI/r). Both groups exhibited significantly reduced lipid profiles, except for HDL cholesterol, for which a non-significant increase was observed. [NNRTI patients: total cholesterol (baseline: 195.5 ± 38.4 mg/dL; week 48: 171.0 ± 35.5 mg/dL), total cholesterol/HDL ratio (baseline: 4.2 ± 1.2; week 48: 4.0 ± 1.2), HDL (baseline: 49.1 ± 12.0 mg/dL; week 48: 49.2 ± 45.8 mg/dL), LDL (baseline: 119.2 ± 30.2 mg/dL; week 48: 114.2 ± 110.7 mg/dL), and triglycerides (baseline: 136.6 ± 86.8 mg/dL; week 48: 113.4 ± 67.8 mg/dL); PI/r patients: total cholesterol (baseline: 203.2 ± 48.8 mg/dL; week 48: 173.4 ± 36.9 mg/dL), total cholesterol/HDL ratio (baseline: 4.7 ± 1.6; week 48: 4.0 ± 1.2), HDL (baseline: 46.4 ± 12.5 mg/dL; week 48: 52.1 ± 54.4 mg/dL), LDL (baseline: 127.0 ± 36.3 mg/dL; week 48: 111.4 ± 35.8 mg/dL), and triglycerides (baseline: 167.6 ± 107.7 mg/dL; week 48: 122.7 ± 72.1 mg/dL)]. The most common intolerances were neuropsychiatric in the NNRTI patients and gastrointestinal and metabolic in the PI/r patients, and these intolerances were significantly reduced in both groups at week 48 [NNRTI: neuropsychiatric (baseline: 81.3%; week 48: 0.0%); PI/r: gastrointestinal (baseline: 48.7%; week 48: 0.0%) and metabolic (baseline: 42.1%; week 48: 0.0%)]. RPV/FTC/TDF improved the lipid profiles and reduced the intolerances after switching from NNRTI or PI-based regimens, in a cohort of HIV-infected patients.

Orbit transfer rocket engine technology program: Advanced engine study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Erickson, C. M.

1992-01-01

In Task D.6 of the Advanced Engine Study, three primary subtasks were accomplished: (1) design of parametric data; (2) engine requirement variation studies; and (3) vehicle study/engine study coordination. Parametric data were generated for vacuum thrusts ranging from 7500 lbf to 50,000 lbf, nozzle expansion ratios from 600 to 1200, and engine mixture ratios from 5:1 to 7:1. Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) was used as a departure point for these parametric analyses. These data are intended to assist in definition and trade studies. In the Engine Requirements Variation Studies, the individual effects of increasing the throttling ratio from 10:1 to 20:1 and requiring the engine to operate at a maximum mixture ratio of 12:1 were determined. Off design engine balances were generated at these extreme conditions and individual component operating requirements analyzed in detail. Potential problems were identified and possible solutions generated. In the Vehicle Study/Engine Study coordination subtask, vehicle contractor support was provided as needed, addressing a variety of issues uncovered during vehicle trade studies. This support was primarily provided during Technical Interchange Meetings (TIM) in which Space Exploration Initiative (SEI) studies were addressed.

Early Detection of NSCLC Using Stromal Markers in Peripheral Blood

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-09-01

post- surgery patients, and COPD patients Subtask 2: Flow cytometry sorting of circulating myeloid cells. Subtask 3: RNA-Sequencing Subtask 4: RNA...recruitment including pre- and post- surgery patients, and COPD patients During this reporting period, we have recruited 23 NSCLC patients and collected

Effects of 12-month, 2000IU/day vitamin D supplementation on treatment naïve and vitamin D deficient Saudi type 2 diabetic patients

PubMed Central

Al-Shahwan, May A.; Al-Othman, Abdulaziz M.; Al-Daghri, Nasser M.; Sabico, Shaun B.

2015-01-01

Objectives: To determine whether 12-month, 2000IU/day vitamin D supplementation cardiometabolically improves treatment naïve type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) Saudi patients with vitamin D deficiency. Methods: This 12-month interventional study was conducted at primary health centers in 5 different residential areas in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia between January 2013 and January 2014. Forty-five Saudi T2DM patients were enrolled. Baseline anthropometrics, glycemic, and lipid profiles were measured and repeated after 6 and 12 months. All subjects were provided with 2000IU vitamin D supplements for one year. Results: Vitamin D deficiency at baseline was 46.7%, 31.8% after 6 months, and 35.6% after 12 months, indicating an overall improvement in the vitamin D status in the entire cohort. Insulin and homeostatic model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) after 12 months were significantly lower than a 6 months (p<0.05), but comparable to baseline values. Mean levels of triglycerides increased overtime from baseline (1.9±0.01 mmol/l) to 12 months (2.1±0.2 mmol). This modest increase in serum triglycerides was parallel to the insignificant decrease in circulating high-density lipoprotein -cholesterol levels. Conclusion: Twelve-month vitamin D supplementation of 2000IU per day in a cohort of treatment naïve Saudi patients with T2DM resulted in improvement of several cardiometabolic parameters including systolic blood pressure, insulin, and HOMA-IR. Further studies that include a placebo group are suggested to reinforce findings. PMID:26620985

Orbit transfer rocket engine integrated control and health monitoring system technology readiness assessment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bickford, R. L.; Collamore, F. N.; Gage, M. L.; Morgan, D. B.; Thomas, E. R.

1992-01-01

The objectives of this task were to: (1) estimate the technology readiness of an integrated control and health monitoring (ICHM) system for the Aerojet 7500 lbF Orbit Transfer Vehicle engine preliminary design assuming space based operations; and (2) estimate the remaining cost to advance this technology to a NASA defined 'readiness level 6' by 1996 wherein the technology has been demonstrated with a system validation model in a simulated environment. The work was accomplished through the conduct of four subtasks. In subtask 1 the minimally required functions for the control and monitoring system was specified. The elements required to perform these functions were specified in Subtask 2. In Subtask 3, the technology readiness level of each element was assessed. Finally, in Subtask 4, the development cost and schedule requirements were estimated for bringing each element to 'readiness level 6'.

Targeting a Novel Androgen Receptor-Repressed Pathway in Prostate Cancer Therapy

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-09-01

AURKA and CENPE. [ Study is on - going] Major Task 3: Test the hypothesis that androgen deprivation-induced PKD1 expression. Major Task 4: Test the...Subtask 3: Conduct detail analysis of the pathway identified in Subtask 2 and assessing its impact on PKD1 expression. This study is on -going. We...enzalutamide, in androgen-sensitivity PrCa cells. We have completed this subtask. In this study , although PKD2 overexpression had little impact on LNCaP

An informal analysis of flight control tasks

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Andersen, George J.

1991-01-01

Issues important in rotorcraft flight control are discussed. A perceptual description is suggested of what is believed to be the major issues in flight control. When the task is considered of a pilot controlling a helicopter in flight, the task is decomposed in several subtasks. These subtasks include: (1) the control of altitude, (2) the control of speed, (3) the control of heading, (4) the control of orientation, (5) the control of flight over obstacles, and (6) the control of flight to specified positions in the world. The first four subtasks can be considered to be primary control tasks as they are not dependent on any other subtasks. However, the latter two subtasks can be considered hierarchical tasks as they are dependent on other subtasks. For example, the task of flight control over obstacles can be decomposed as a task requiring the control of speed, altitude, and heading. Thus, incorrect control of altitude should result in poor control of flight over an obstacle.

Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Training Devices: Elaboration and Application of the Predictive Model

DTIC Science & Technology

1976-07-01

consider a two-subtask case where subtask I is difficult, while subtask 2 Is easy. rurther, suppose there are two training devices designed to teach the...extra cures an which he rrMeS to rely hut whikh ire’ not ava llableF whein he Lhanqe%" frrae training to thew actual Job. Iip Ir IL.AlI -. efl ~elleont

Associations between Quantitative Mobility Measures Derived from Components of Conventional Mobility Testing and Parkinsonian Gait in Older Adults

PubMed Central

Buchman, Aron S.; Leurgans, Sue E.; Weiss, Aner; VanderHorst, Veronique; Mirelman, Anat; Dawe, Robert; Barnes, Lisa L.; Wilson, Robert S.; Hausdorff, Jeffrey M.; Bennett, David A.

2014-01-01

Objective To provide objective measures which characterize mobility in older adults assessed in the community setting and to examine the extent to which these measures are associated with parkinsonian gait. Methods During conventional mobility testing in the community-setting, 351 ambulatory non-demented Memory and Aging Project participants wore a belt with a whole body sensor that recorded both acceleration and angular velocity in 3 directions. We used measures derived from these recordings to quantify 5 subtasks including a) walking, b) transition from sit to stand, c) transition from stand to sit, d) turning and e) standing posture. Parkinsonian gait and other mild parkinsonian signs were assessed with a modified version of the original Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (mUPDRS). Results In a series of separate regression models which adjusted for age and sex, all 5 mobility subtask measures were associated with parkinsonian gait and accounted for 2% to 32% of its variance. When all 5 subtask measures were considered in a single model, backward elimination showed that measures of walking sit to stand and turning showed independent associations with parkinsonian gait and together accounted for more than 35% of its variance. Cross-validation using data from a 2nd group of 258 older adults showed similar results. In similar analyses, only walking was associated with bradykinesia and sway with tremor. Interpretation Quantitative mobility subtask measures vary in their associations with parkinsonian gait scores and other parkinsonian signs in older adults. Quantifying the different facets of mobility has the potential to facilitate the clinical characterization and understanding the biologic basis for impaired mobility in older adults. PMID:24465997

Syndecan-1 and Metastasis Dormancy

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-09-01

Sdc1 WT vs Sdc1 KO mice (p = 0.36). - 5 - Major Task 2: Optimize 3D lung microenvironment assay Subtask 1: Transduce HMVEC-L with E4ORF1 and mCherry...micro-channel devices (see below) but have not yet transduced them with E4ORF1 nor labeled them. If we succeed in generating defined vascular

Anatomy-Specific Virtual Reality Simulation in Temporal Bone Dissection: Perceived Utility and Impact on Surgeon Confidence.

PubMed

Locketz, Garrett D; Lui, Justin T; Chan, Sonny; Salisbury, Kenneth; Dort, Joseph C; Youngblood, Patricia; Blevins, Nikolas H

2017-06-01

Objective To evaluate the effect of anatomy-specific virtual reality (VR) surgical rehearsal on surgeon confidence and temporal bone dissection performance. Study Design Prospective pre- and poststudy of a novel virtual surgical rehearsal platform. Setting Academic otolaryngology-head and neck surgery residency training programs. Subjects and Methods Sixteen otolaryngology-head and neck surgery residents from 2 North American training institutions were recruited. Surveys were administered to assess subjects' baseline confidence in performing 12 subtasks of cortical mastoidectomy with facial recess. A cadaver temporal bone was randomly assigned to each subject. Cadaver specimens were scanned with a clinical computed tomography protocol, allowing the creation of anatomy-specific models for use in a VR surgical rehearsal platform. Subjects then rehearsed a virtual mastoidectomy on data sets derived from their specimens. Surgical confidence surveys were administered again. Subjects then dissected assigned cadaver specimens, which were blindly graded with a modified Welling scale. A final survey assessed the perceived utility of rehearsal on dissection performance. Results Of 16 subjects, 14 (87.5%) reported a significant increase in overall confidence after conducting an anatomy-specific VR rehearsal. A significant correlation existed between perceived utility of rehearsal and confidence improvement. The effect of rehearsal on confidence was dependent on trainee experience and the inherent difficulty of the surgical subtask. Postrehearsal confidence correlated strongly with graded dissection performance. Subjects rated anatomy-specific rehearsal as having a moderate to high contribution to their dissection performance. Conclusion Anatomy-specific virtual rehearsal improves surgeon confidence in performing mastoid dissection, dependent on surgeon experience and task difficulty. The subjective confidence gained through rehearsal correlates positively with subsequent objective dissection performance.

An assessment of commercial motor vehicle driver distraction using naturalistic driving data.

PubMed

Hickman, Jeffrey S; Hanowski, Richard J

2012-01-01

This study analyzed naturalistic driving data from commercial trucks (3-axle and tractor-trailer/tanker) and buses (transit and motorcoach) during a 3-month period. The data set contained 183 commercial truck and bus fleets comprising 13,306 vehicles and included 1085 crashes, 8375 near crashes, 30,661 crash-relevant conflicts, and 211,171 baseline events. Study results documented the prevalence of tertiary tasks and the risks associated with performing these tasks while driving. Results indicated the odds of involvement in a safety-critical event differed as a function of performing different cell phone-related subtasks while driving. Although the odds ratio for talking/listening on a cell phone while driving was found to not significantly increase the likelihood of involvement in a safety-critical event, other cell phone subtasks (e.g., texting, dialing, reaching) were found to significantly increase the odds of involvement in a safety-critical event. The results suggest that cell phone use while driving should not be considered a simple dichotomous task (yes/no). Consideration should instead be made for a set of discrete cell phone subtasks that are each associated with varying levels of risk. Several hypotheses are presented to explain why cell phone use while driving was found to not increase the likelihood of involvement in a safety-critical event.

Development of Thermoacoustic Sensors for Sodium-cooled Fast Reactors

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

Heibel, Michael D.; Carvajal, Jorge V.; Ferroni, Paolo

This Final Report refers to the project “Development of Thermoacoustic Sensors for Sodium-cooled Fast Reactor Systems”, which was led by Westinghouse Electric Company (Westinghouse) and carried out in collaboration with Argonne National Laboratory (ANL) and University of Pittsburgh. Thermo-acoustic Power Sensors (TAPS) are self-powered, wireless sensors envisioned for measuring key parameters, such as local temperature and neutron flux, in a nuclear reactor core. This project was intended to specifically investigate their applicability to Sodium-cooled Fast Reactors (SFR). TAPS are non-invasive (wireless) and passive (self-powered) devices. The passivity derives from their ability to use conditions that “naturally” exist in a nuclearmore » reactor, such as gamma and neutron flux, as power sources. They generate oscillating pressure waves (i.e., sound waves) which, with a frequency and amplitude dependent upon these conditions, can travel through the core and associated structures, and reach the outside of the reactor vessel where a properly designed network of receivers can detect and interpret them. These receivers require a very small amount of power which, during loss of power events, can be provided for example by harvesting gamma radiation energy, thus resulting in a monitoring system that can function both during normal operation and during loss of power events. The project aimed at TAPS development through a series of tasks which are listed and briefly discussed as follows. TASK 1 – Sensor hardware design Subtask 1a: Assessment of sensor applications to SFRs Subtask 1b: Development of sensor functional requirements Subtask 1c: Definition of sensor hardware design specifications Task description: TAPS design was informed by considerations on their application (Subtask 1a), both the ultimate one in an SFR and the actual one in the ANL testing facilities that was intended to be used in support of the project. Considerations were made to identify optimum sensor design features that optimize the sensor size, materials, and output signal, for installation inside an SFR core. These considerations led to the development of Functional Requirements (Subtask 1b) and Design Requirements (Subtask 1c). TASK 2 – Sensor Hardware Manufacture Subtask 2a: Sensor hardware construction drawing development Subtask 2b: Sensor manufacture and assembly Task description: TAPS technical drawings were developed (Subtask 2a) using the Design Requirements established under Task 1. Subsequently, in spite of some problems which ultimately caused the program to be delayed, TAPS manufacturing was completed based on drawings (Subtask 2b). TASK 3 – Development of TAPS Signal Measurement System and TAPS Testing in Water Subtask 3a: Design, assembly and testing of signal measurement system, and TAPS testing in water Subtask 3b: Signal prediction-correction methodology development Task description: An assessment was performed on the techniques that can potentially be used to detect the signals emitted by the TAPS, e.g. a fiber-optic based acoustic signal measurement system, a laser vibrometer system, or an accelerometer-based system. The most suited technology, i.e. the accelerometer-based system, was developed further, and tested in water (Subtask 3a). Moreover, efforts were made to develop the methodology required to determine the actual system temperature and neutron flux distribution using differences between the measured and predicted TAPS responses (Subtask 3b). TASK 4 – Sensor System Testing in Sodium Subtask 4a: Test plan development Subtask 4b: Design, assembly and testing in small-scale sodium facility Subtask 4c: Design, assembly and testing in large-scale sodium and structures facility Task description: Upon proper test plan development (Subtask 4a), the fabricated TAPS was planned to be tested in sodium, by using two sodium facilities at ANL having different size and different purpose. The Under Sodium Viewing (USV) small-scale facility was intended to be used to investigate the effect of sodium on the sensor and its performance (Subtask 4b). The Mechanism Engineering Test Loop (METL) large-scale facility was instead intended to be used to assess the additional effect of prototypical SFR structures, such as fuel assembly mockup or parts of the core restrain structure, on sensor performance (Subtask 4c). As discussed in Section 3.2.2.7, unexpected issues during the TAPS manufacturing process resulted in some activities being delayed, with the TAPS and USV facility developed to the point to be ready for testing in sodium, however without the possibility to actually perform such testing (including the testing in METL) due to the end of the program’s performance period. Overall, through the development and testing (in water only) of two TAPS devices (a First-Generation TAPS followed by an optimized Second-Generation TAPS), the project confirmed the capability of this technology to generate acoustic signals proportional to temperature, which can be detected through a network of accelerometers identified as the best-suited type of receivers for acoustic signal detection. Moreover, the project also developed a computational model to predict the characteristics of the acoustic signals being generated, which combines thermal analysis of the TAPS with Finite Element Modeling (FEM)-aided acoustic characterization of the system. This model was benchmarked against experimental data collected during the project and, although general agreement was obtained, some limitations of the modeling methods were identified, which require additional development. Additional testing is needed in order to assess the effect, on TAPS operation and performance, of environmental changes resulting from the transition from water to liquid sodium. Such testing, which is suggested to be performed in the future, should look specifically at 1) both the effect resulting from the different thermoacoustic behavior of sodium (relative to water) and the effects of higher temperature on TAPS performance, and 2) the performance of the sensor-receiver system when multiple TAPS are used simultaneously and prototypical reactor structures are positioned in the testing environment. The latter testing is needed to assess the effects that potential signal attenuation/ distortion phenomena, as well as potential interference between signals emitted simultaneously, have on the performance of the technology for ultimate application in a nuclear reactor.« less

Calcination/dissolution chemistry development Fiscal year 1995

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

Delegard, C.H.

1995-09-01

The task {open_quotes}IPC Liaison and Chemistry of Thermal Reconstitution{close_quotes} is a $300,000 program that was conducted in Fiscal Year (FY) 1995 with U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Research and Development (EM-53) Efficient Separations and Processing Crosscutting Program supported under technical task plan (TTP) RL4-3-20-04. The principal investigator was Cal Delegard of the Westinghouse Hanford Company (WHC). The task encompassed the following two subtasks related to the chemistry of alkaline Hanford Site tank waste: (1) Technical Liaison with the Institute of Physical Chemistry of the Russian Academy of Science (IPC/RAS) and its research into the chemistry of transuranic elementsmore » (TRU) and technetium (Tc) in alkaline media. (2) Laboratory investigation of the chemistry of calcination/dissolution (C/D) (or thermal reconstitution) as an alternative to the present reference Hanford Site tank waste pretreatment flowsheet, Enhanced Sludge Washing (ESW). This report fulfills the milestone for the C/D subtask to {open_quotes}Provide End-of-Year Report on C/D Laboratory Test Results{close_quotes} due 30 September 1995. A companion report, fulfilling the milestone to provide an end-of-year report on the IPC/RAS liaison, also has been prepared.« less

Serum VEGF-D concentration as a biomarker of lymphangioleiomyomatosis severity and treatment response: a prospective analysis of the Multicenter International Lymphangioleiomyomatosis Efficacy of Sirolimus (MILES) trial

PubMed Central

Young, Lisa R; Lee, Hye-Seung; Inoue, Yoshikazu; Moss, Joel; Singer, Lianne G; Strange, Charlie; Nakata, Koh; Barker, Alan F; Chapman, Jeffrey T; Brantly, Mark L; Stocks, James M; Brown, Kevin K; Lynch, Joseph P; Goldberg, Hilary J; Downey, Gregory P; Swigris, Jeffrey J; Taveira-DaSilva, Angelo M; Krischer, Jeffrey P; Trapnell, Bruce C; McCormack, Francis X

2013-01-01

Summary Background VEGF-D is a lymphangiogenic growth factor that has a key role in tumour metastasis. Serum VEGF-D concentrations are increased in most patients with lymphangioleiomyomatosis, a rare neoplasm associated with mTOR-activating tuberous sclerosis gene mutations, lymphadenopathy, metastatic spread, and pulmonary cyst formation. We used data from the Multicenter International Lymphangioleiomyomatosis Efficacy of Sirolimus (MILES) trial to assess the usefulness of serum VEGF-D concentration as a marker of severity and therapeutic response to sirolimus in patients with lymphangioleiomyomatosis. Methods In the MILES trial, patients with lymphangioleiomyomatosis who had forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) of 70% or less of predicted were randomly assigned (1:1) to 12 months masked treatment with sirolimus or placebo. Serum VEGF-D concentrations were measured at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months. We used a linear regression model to assess associations of baseline VEGF-D concentrations with markers of disease severity, and a linear mixed effects model to assess the associations of VEGF-D concentrations with between-group differences in clinical, physiological, and patient-reported outcomes. Findings We included 42 patients from the placebo group and 45 from the sirolimus group in our analysis. Baseline VEGF-D concentrations in individual patients varied from 0·34 ng/mL to 16·7 ng/mL. Baseline VEGF-D concentrations were higher in patients who needed supplemental oxygen than in those who did not need supplemental oxygen (1·7 ng/mL [IQR 0·99–3·36] vs 0·84 ng/mL [0·52–1·39]; p<0·0001) and in those who had a bronchodilator response than in those who did not (2·01 ng/mL [0·99–2·86] vs 1·00 ng/mL [0·61–2·15]; 0·0273). Median serum VEGF-D concentrations were similar at baseline in the sirolimus and placebo groups, and fell from baseline at 6 and 12 months in the sirolimus group but remained roughly stable in the placebo group. Each one-unit increase in baseline log(VEGF-D) was associated with a between-group difference in baseline-to-12-month FEV1 change of 134 mL (p=0·0007). In the sirolimus group, improvement in baseline-to-12-month FEV1 occurred in 15 of 23 (65%) VEGF-D responders (ie, those in whom baseline-to-12-month VEGF-D concentrations decreased by more than they did in any patients in the placebo group) and four of 15 (27%) VEGF-D non-responders (p=0·0448). Interpretation Serum VEGF-D is a biologically plausible and useful biomarker in lymphangioleiomyomatosis that correlates with disease severity and treatment response. Measurement of serum VEGF-D concentrations could inform the risk–benefit analysis of sirolimus therapy in patients with lymphangioleiomyomatosis and reduce the numbers of patients needed for clinical trials. PMID:24159565

Propulsion and Power Rapid Response Research and Development (R&D) Support. Delivery Order 0011: Advanced Propulsion Fuels R&D, Subtask: Evaluation of 50/50 Hydroprocessed Renewable Jet Fuel and JP8 in the Ford 6.7L High-Pressure Common Rail Design Engine

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-12-01

treated with 9ppm of a QPL-25017 additive. Testing was completed using a Ford 6.7L V8 turbocharged diesel engine. Testing was completed following a...Installation ................................................................................. 3 2. Ford 6.7L Fuel Injection Pump, Rail, & Injector ...5 4. Fuel Injector Component Break-Out

De Novo Chromosome Copy Number Variation in Fanconi Anemia-Associated Hematopoietic Defects

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-04-01

Appendix 1. Expansion of monoclonal populations of FA-A hTERT and FA-A + FANCA hTERT cells Appendix 2. Expansion of monoclonal populations of FA...marrow failure (BMF) and pronounced cancer susceptibility. The FA proteins and the major breast cancer susceptibility gene products BRCA1 and BRCA2...Correction of FA-A, FA-C, and FA-D2 hTERT cells with pLenti6.2/V5- FANCA , -FANCC, and FANCD2, respectively. Sub-task 1. Selection and expansion of clonal

Structured Analysis and Structured Design for the Logistic Support Analysis (LSA) Task 303 Evaluation of Alternatives and Trade-Off Analysis, LSA Subtask 303.2.2, Trade-Off Between Support System Alternatives and System/Equipment Alternatives

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-01-01

Field 3. Training and Training Devices: a. Factory training b. Instructor and key personnel training c. New equipment training plan d. New equipment...12345678901234567990123456789012345678901234567890123456789� 1. 0016 10 SUPPOR2AILITY ALTEIIIVE TRADE-OFF ANALISIS . 4. + 4" + 4. 4. 4 2. C1.0 111.0 N2.0 1.0 INITIATE

Exercise intensity, redox homeostasis and inflammation in type 2 diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Mallard, Alistair R; Hollekim-Strand, Siri Marte; Coombes, Jeff S; Ingul, Charlotte B

2017-10-01

To compare 12 weeks of exercise training at two intensities on oxidative stress, antioxidants and inflammatory biomarkers in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Randomized trial. Thirty-six participants with T2D were randomized to complete either 12 weeks of treadmill based high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT), followed by 40 weeks of home-based training at the same intensities. Plasma inflammation, oxidative stress and antioxidant biomarkers (total F2-isoprostanes, protein carbonyls, total antioxidant capacity, glutathione peroxidase activity, interleukin-10, interleukin-6, interleukin-8 and TNF-α) were measured at baseline, 12-weeks and 1-year. There were no significant changes (p>0.05) in oxidative stress and inflammation biomarkers from baseline to 12-weeks in either intervention. A decrease in total antioxidant capacity in the MICT group from baseline to 1-year by 0.05mmol/L (p=0.05) was observed. There was a significant difference (p<0.05) when groups were separated by sex with females in the MICT group having a 22.1% (p<0.05) decrease in protein carbonyls from baseline to 1-year. HIIT and MICT had no acute effect on oxidative stress and inflammatory biomarkers in patients with T2D. Copyright © 2017 Sports Medicine Australia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Hierarchical Bayesian Models of Subtask Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Anglim, Jeromy; Wynton, Sarah K. A.

2015-01-01

The current study used Bayesian hierarchical methods to challenge and extend previous work on subtask learning consistency. A general model of individual-level subtask learning was proposed focusing on power and exponential functions with constraints to test for inconsistency. To study subtask learning, we developed a novel computer-based booking…

Differences in Multitask Resource Reallocation After Change in Task Values.

PubMed

Matton, Nadine; Paubel, Pierre; Cegarra, Julien; Raufaste, Eric

2016-12-01

The objective was to characterize multitask resource reallocation strategies when managing subtasks with various assigned values. When solving a resource conflict in multitasking, Salvucci and Taatgen predict a globally rational strategy will be followed that favors the most urgent subtask and optimizes global performance. However, Katidioti and Taatgen identified a locally rational strategy that optimizes only a subcomponent of the whole task, leading to detrimental consequences on global performance. Moreover, the question remains open whether expertise would have an impact on the choice of the strategy. We adopted a multitask environment used for pilot selection with a change in emphasis on two out of four subtasks while all subtasks had to be maintained over a minimum performance. A laboratory eye-tracking study contrasted 20 recently selected pilot students considered as experienced with this task and 15 university students considered as novices. When two subtasks were emphasized, novices focused their resources particularly on one high-value subtask and failed to prevent both low-value subtasks falling below minimum performance. On the contrary, experienced people delayed the processing of one low-value subtask but managed to optimize global performance. In a multitasking environment where some subtasks are emphasized, novices follow a locally rational strategy whereas experienced participants follow a globally rational strategy. During complex training, trainees are only able to adjust their resource allocation strategy to subtask emphasis changes once they are familiar with the multitasking environment. © 2016, Human Factors and Ergonomics Society.

Orbit Transfer Rocket Engine Technology Program, Advanced Engine Study Task D.6

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-02-28

l!J~iliiJl 1. Report No. 2. Government Accession No. 3 . Recipient’s Catalog No. NASA 187215 4. Title and Subtitle 5. Report Date ORBIT TRANSFER ROCKET...Engine Study, three primary subtasks were accomplished: 1) Design and Parametric Data, 2) Engine Requirement Variation Studies, and 3 ) Vehicle Study...Mixture Ratio Parametrics 18 3 . Thrust Parametrics Off-Design Mixture Ratio Scans 22 4. Expansion Area Ratio Parametrics 24 5. OTV 20 klbf Engine Off

Propulsion and Power Rapid Response Research and Development (R&D) Support. Task Order 0004: Advanced Propulsion Fuels R&D, Subtask: Optimization of Lipid Production and Processing of Microalgae for the Development of Biofuels

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-02-01

Purified cultures are tested for optimized production under heterotrophic conditions with several organic carbon sources like beet and sorghum juice using ...Moreover, AFRL support sponsored the Master’s in Chemical Engineering project titled “Cost Analysis Of Local Bio- Products Processing Plant Using ...unlimited. 2.5 Screening for High Lipid Production Mutants Procedure: A selection of 84 single colony cultures was analyzed in this phase using the

Methods, apparatus and system for selective duplication of subtasks

DOEpatents

Andrade Costa, Carlos H.; Cher, Chen-Yong; Park, Yoonho; Rosenburg, Bryan S.; Ryu, Kyung D.

2016-03-29

A method for selective duplication of subtasks in a high-performance computing system includes: monitoring a health status of one or more nodes in a high-performance computing system, where one or more subtasks of a parallel task execute on the one or more nodes; identifying one or more nodes as having a likelihood of failure which exceeds a first prescribed threshold; selectively duplicating the one or more subtasks that execute on the one or more nodes having a likelihood of failure which exceeds the first prescribed threshold; and notifying a messaging library that one or more subtasks were duplicated.

Enhancing Propriospinal Relays to Improve Functional Recovery After SCI

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-10-01

injury to the spinal cord. We have completed experiments for subtask 1 – 4 of specific aim 1 and subtasks 1 for specific aim 2. This Aim 2 of the...previously observed PAP2 to induce robust regeneration in a dorsal hemisection model and thought it might enhance regeneration and sprouting after the more...spontaneous recovery is often observed after incomplete injuries, leading to partial recovery over time. Spontaneous recovery is thought to be

An Investigation into the Nature of Non-Voiding Contractions Resulting from Detrusor Hyperreflexia in Neurogenic Bladders Following Spinal Cord Injury

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-06-01

occasioned by numerous, rhythmic high pressure non-voiding contractions (NVC) during normal bladder filling. These NVC are responsible for incontinence...month experiment period) 2c. Final data analysis (data analysis will be ongoing throughout, this will represent the finalization of data period, 0.25...Sub-Tasks 2a and 2b. As of 9/2/14, we have completed much of the data analysis (Sub-Task 2c; see below for results). Analysis of abdominal

Aerospace engineering design by systematic decomposition and multilevel optimization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sobieszczanski-Sobieski, J.; Barthelemy, J. F. M.; Giles, G. L.

1984-01-01

A method for systematic analysis and optimization of large engineering systems, by decomposition of a large task into a set of smaller subtasks that is solved concurrently is described. The subtasks may be arranged in hierarchical levels. Analyses are carried out in each subtask using inputs received from other subtasks, and are followed by optimizations carried out from the bottom up. Each optimization at the lower levels is augmented by analysis of its sensitivity to the inputs received from other subtasks to account for the couplings among the subtasks in a formal manner. The analysis and optimization operations alternate iteratively until they converge to a system design whose performance is maximized with all constraints satisfied. The method, which is still under development, is tentatively validated by test cases in structural applications and an aircraft configuration optimization.

Vitamin D supplementation and antibacterial immune responses in adolescents and young adults with HIV/AIDS.

PubMed

Chun, Rene F; Liu, Nancy Q; Lee, T; Schall, Joan I; Denburg, Michelle R; Rutstein, Richard M; Adams, John S; Zemel, Babette S; Stallings, Virginia A; Hewison, Martin

2015-04-01

Human monocytes activated by toll-like receptor 2/1 ligand (TLR2/1L) show enhanced expression of the vitamin D receptor (VDR) and the vitamin D-activating enzyme 1α-hydroxylase (CYP27B1). The resulting intracrine conversion of precursor 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25OHD) to active 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25(OH)2D) can stimulate expression of antibacterial cathelicidin (CAMP). To determine whether this response is functional in HIV-infected subjects (HIV+ ), serum from HIV+ subjects pre- and post-vitamin D supplementation was utilized in monocyte cultures with or without TLR2/1L. Expression of CYP27B1 and VDR was enhanced following treatment with TLR2/1L, although this effect was lower in HIV+ vs HIV- serum (p<0.05). CAMP was also lower in TLR2/1L-treated monocytes cultured in HIV+ serum (p<0.01). In a dose study, supplementation of HIV+ subjects with 4000IU or 7000IU vitamin D/day increased serum 25OHD from 17.3±8.0 and 20.6±6.2ng/ml (43nM and 51nM) at baseline to 41.1±12.0 and 51.9±23.1ng/ml (103nM and 130nM) after 12 weeks (both p<0.001). Greater percent change from baseline 25OHD was significantly associated with enhanced TLR2/1L-induced monocyte CAMP adjusted for baseline expression (p=0.009). In a randomized placebo-controlled trial, 7000IU vitamin D/day increased serum 25OHD from 18.0±8.6 to 32.7±13.8ng/ml (45nM and 82nM) after 12 weeks. Expression of CAMP increased significantly from baseline after 52 weeks of vitamin D-supplementation. At this time point, TLR2/1L-induced CAMP was positively associated with percent change from baseline in 25OHD (p=0.029 overall and 0.002 within vitamin D-supplemented only). These data indicate that vitamin D supplementation in HIV-infected subjects can promote improved antibacterial immunity, but also suggest that longer periods of supplementation are required to achieve this. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Vitamin D supplementation and antibacterial immune responses in adolescents and young adults with HIV/AIDS

PubMed Central

Chun, Rene F.; Liu, Nancy Q.; Lee, T; Schall, Joan I.; Denburg, Michelle R.; Rutstein, Richard M.; Adams, John S.; Zemel, Babette S.; Stallings, Virginia A.; Hewison, Martin

2014-01-01

Human monocytes activated by toll-like receptor 2/1 ligand (TLR2/1L) show enhanced expression of the vitamin D receptor (VDR) and the vitamin D-activating enzyme 1α-hydroxylase (CYP27B1). The resulting intracrine conversion of precursor 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25OHD) to active 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25(OH)2D) can stimulate expression of antibacterial cathelicidin (CAMP). To determine whether this response is functional in HIV-infected subjects (HIV+), serum from HIV+ subjects pre- and post-vitamin D supplementation was utilized in monocyte cultures with or without TLR2/1L. Expression of CYP27B1 and VDR was enhanced following treatment with TLR2/1L, although this effect was lower in HIV+ vs HIV- serum (p<0.05). CAMP was also lower in TLR2/1L-treated monocytes cultured in HIV+ serum (p<0.01). In a dose study, supplementation of HIV+ subjects with 4,000IU or 7,000IU vitamin D/day increased serum 25OHD from 17.3±8.0 and 20.6±6.2 ng/ml (43 nM and 51 nM) at baseline to 41.1±12.0 and 51.9±23.1 ng/ml (103 nM and 130 nM) after 12 wks (both p<0.001). Greater percent change from baseline 25OHD was significantly associated with enhanced TLR2/1L-induced monocyte CAMP adjusted for baseline expression (p = 0.009). In a randomized placebo-controlled trial, 7,000IU vitamin D/day increased serum 25OHD from 18.0±8.6 to 32.7±13.8 ng/ml (45 nM and 82 nM) after 12 wks. Expression of CAMP increased significantly from baseline after 52 wks of vitamin D-supplementation. At this time point, TLR2/1L-induced CAMP was positively associated with percent change from baseline in 25OHD (p = 0.029 overall and 0.002 within vitamin D-supplemented only). These data indicate that vitamin D supplementation in HIV-infected subjects can promote improved antibacterial immunity, but also suggest that longer periods of supplementation are required to achieve this. PMID:25092518

Eliminating Late Recurrence to Eradicate Breast Cancer

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-09-01

induction of autophagy and antioxidant responses in Drosophila melanogaster . PLoS Genet. 9, e1003664 34 Rouschop, K.M. et al. (2010) The unfolded protein... genomic editing in human cells [8]. In contrast to RNA interference, CRISPR results in stable genetic changes in cell lines. We have generated the ...upcoming year. Since subtask 1d was delayed to pursue studies in the   Fig 2. CRISP/Cas9-Mediated Genomic Deletion of cATGs. Top: Construct

NRA8-21 Cycle 2 RBCC Turbopump Risk Reduction

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ferguson, Thomas V.; Williams, Morgan; Marcu, Bogdan

2004-01-01

This project was composed of three sub-tasks. The objective of the first task was to use the CFD code INS3D to generate both on- and off-design predictions for the consortium optimized impeller flowfield. The results of the flow simulations are given in the first section. The objective of the second task was to construct a turbomachinery testing database comprised of measurements made on several different impellers, an inducer and a diffuser. The data was in the form of static pressure measurements as well as laser velocimeter measurements of velocities and flow angles within the stated components. Several databases with this information were created for these components. The third subtask objective was two-fold: first, to validate the Enigma CFD code for pump diffuser analysis, and secondly, to perform steady and unsteady analyses on some wide flow range diffuser concepts using Enigma. The code was validated using the consortium optimized impeller database and then applied to two different concepts for wide flow diffusers.

The National Shipbuilding Research Program. Environmental Studies and Testing (Phase V)

DTIC Science & Technology

2000-11-20

development of an analytical procedure for toxic organic compounds, including TBT ( tributyltin ), whose turnaround time would be in the order of minutes...Cost of the Subtask was $20,000. Subtask #33 - Turnaround Analytical Method for TBT This Subtask performed a preliminary investigation leading to the...34Quick TBT Analytical Method" that will yield reliable results in 15 minutes, a veritable breakthrough in sampling technology. The Subtask was managed by

INTRODUCTION TO PHARMACEUTICALS AND PERSONAL ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

There is no abstract for this product. If further information is requested, please refer to the bibliographic citation and contact the person listed under Contact field. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for media, responding to public inquiries. Subtask 3: T

PHARMACEUTICALS AND PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTS ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

There is no abstract for this product. If further information is requested, please refer to the bibliographic citation and contact the person listed under Contact field. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for media, responding to public inquiries. Subtask 3: T

MONITORING SYNTHETIC MUSK COMPOUNDS IN ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Synthetic musk compounds are manufactured as fragrance materials for consumer products and are consumed in very large quantities worldwide. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for media, responding to public inquiries. Subtask 3: To apply state-of-the-art envir

CORRELATION OF CHEMICAL MARKERS - NITRATE AND ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Giving public water authorities another tool to monitor and measure levels of human waste contamination of waters simply and rapidly would enhance public protection. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for media, responding to public inquiries. Subtask 3: To ap

Advanced Wireless Integrated Navy Network - AWINN

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-06-30

de Sousa, GRA (5/15/05-6/30/05) George C. Hadjichristofi, GRA (4/1/05-5/14/05) Unghee Lee, GRA (33% for 4/1/05-5/14/05, 100% for 5/15/05-6/30/05...and initial implementation of test bed conversion to support Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6). In this section, we also report on accomplishments in...below. 2.1.2 Task Activities for the Period Subtask 2. la Policy-based Quality of Service Task Obiective: The objectives of this subtask are to

An Investigation into the Nature of Non-Voiding Contractions Resulting from Detrusor Hyperreflexia in Neurogenic Bladders Following Spinal Cord Injury

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-10-01

SCI) is often occasioned by numerous, rhythmic high pressure non-voiding contractions (NVC) during normal bladder filling. These NVC are...addition to the 16.5 month experiment period) 2c. Final data analysis (data analysis will be ongoing throughout, this will represent the finalization...accomplished. We accomplished Sub-Tasks 2a and 2b. As of 9/2/14, we have completed much of the data analysis (Sub-Task 2c; see below for results). Analysis

Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Response to Vitamin D3 Supplementation 50,000 IU Monthly in Youth with HIV-1 Infection

PubMed Central

Mulligan, Kathleen; Hazra, Rohan; Flynn, Patricia; Rutledge, Brandy; Van Loan, Marta D.; Lujan-Zilbermann, Jorge; Kapogiannis, Bill G.; Wilson, Craig M.; Stephensen, Charles B.

2012-01-01

Context: Vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency occur frequently in youth with HIV infection, particularly among those receiving the antiretroviral drug efavirenz. Optimal vitamin D dosing for treatment is unclear. Objective: Our objective was to evaluate safety and measure change in 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OHD) concentration from baseline to study wk 4 and 12 during treatment with vitamin D3, 50,000 IU monthly. Design, Setting, and Participants: We conducted a randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled multicenter trial of HIV-infected youth ages 18–24 yr, with viral load below 5000 copies/ml, on stable antiretroviral therapy. Intervention: Intervention included vitamin D3, 50,000 IU (n = 102), or matching placebo (n = 101) administered in three directly observed oral doses at monthly intervals. Results: At baseline, mean (sd) age was 20.9 (2.0) yr; 37% were female and 52% African-American, and 54% were vitamin D deficient/insufficient (25-OHD < 20 ng/ml), with no randomized group differences. Of evaluable participants vitamin D deficient/insufficient at baseline who were administered vitamin D, 43 of 46 (93%) had sufficient 25-OHD by wk 12. Vitamin D supplementation increased 25-OHD serum concentration from a baseline of 21.9 (13.3) to 35.9 (19.1) ng/ml at wk 12 (P < 0.001) with no change for placebo. Although use of the antiretroviral efavirenz was associated with lower baseline 25-OHD concentration, efavirenz did not diminish the response to vitamin D supplementation. There was no treatment-related toxicity. Conclusions: Supplementation with vitamin D3 50,000 IU monthly for three doses was safe. Increases in 25-OHD occurred in treated participants regardless of antiretroviral regimen. PMID:22933542

Calcium absorption response to cholecalciferol supplementation in hemodialysis.

PubMed

Armas, Laura A G; Zena, Mohsen; Lund, Richard; Heaney, Robert P

2013-06-01

Recent understanding of extrarenal production of calcitriol has led to the use of more vitamin D supplementation in CKD populations. This paper reports the effect of cholecalciferol supplementation on calcium absorption. Paired calcium absorption tests were done before and after 12-13 weeks of 20,000 IU weekly cholecalciferol supplementation in 30 participants with stage 5 CKD on hemodialysis. The study was conducted from April to December of 2011. Calcium absorption was tested with a standardized meal containing 300 mg calcium carbonate intrinsically labeled with (45)Ca; 25-hydroxyvitamin D and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D were measured. 25-Hydroxyvitamin D rose from 14.2 ng/ml (11.5-18.5) at baseline to 49.3 ng/ml (42.3-58.1) at the end of the study (P<0.001). 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D rose from 15.1 (10.5-18.8) pg/ml at baseline to 20.5 (17.0-24.7) pg/ml at the end of the study (P<0.001). The median baseline calcium absorption was 12% (7%-17%) and 12% (7%-16%) at the end of study. Patients with stage 5 CKD on hemodialysis had very low calcium absorption values at baseline, and cholecalciferol supplementation that raised 25(OH)D levels to 50 ng/ml had no effect on calcium absorption.

Serum vitamin D levels are not altered after controlled diesel ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Past research has suggested that exposure to urban air pollution may be associated with vitamin D deficiency in human populations. Vitamin D is widely known for its importance in bone growth/remodeling, muscle metabolism, and its ability to promote calcium absorption in the gut; deficiency in vitamin D results in the development of rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults. In the current study, we assessed whether vitamin D levels are altered under controlled exposures to a commonly measured urban air pollutant, diesel. For this study, we exposed 12 healthy volunteers to clean air and diesel exhaust (300 μg/m3) for 2 hours while undergoing intermittent exercise. Venous blood was collected before, 0 hrs post-, and 18 hrs post-exposure, and 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] was measured in the serum. The average baseline value of 25(OH)D (mean ± standard error) was 22.9 ± 2.5 ng/mL. Four subject’s baseline values were vitamin D deficient (30 ng/mL). Additionally, there was no significant change in the baseline values between the clean air and diesel exposures (paired t-test, p = 0.54), suggesting minimal variability in 25(OH)D over the experiment's time course. Small inductions in 25(OH)D were found following clean air exposures (12.5 ± 4.9% and a 7.1 ± 5.0% for 0 hrs post- and 18 hrs post-exposure values compared to baseline, respectively). Minimal changes in 25(OH)D were observed following diesel exhaust exposures 0 hrs (3.5 ± 5.2%) and 18 hrs followin

Open Scenario Study: IDA Open Scenario Repository User’s Manual

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-01-01

Thomason, Study Co-Lead Zachary S. Rabold, Sub-Task Lead Ylli Bajraktari Rachel D. Dubin Mary Catherine Flythe Open Scenario Study: IDA Open Scenario... Bajraktari Rachel D. Dubin Mary Catherine Flythe Open Scenario Study: IDA Open Scenario Repository User’s Manual iii Preface This document reports the...vii Appendices A. Identifying Scenario Components...........................................................A-1 B . Acronyms

Multiple paths in complex tasks

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Galanter, Eugene; Wiegand, Thomas; Mark, Gloria

1987-01-01

The relationship between utility judgments of subtask paths and the utility of the task as a whole was examined. The convergent validation procedure is based on the assumption that measurements of the same quantity done with different methods should covary. The utility measures of the subtasks were obtained during the performance of an aircraft flight controller navigation task. Analyses helped decide among various models of subtask utility combination, whether the utility ratings of subtask paths predict the whole tasks utility rating, and indirectly, whether judgmental models need to include the equivalent of cognitive noise.

SOURCES & ORIGINS OF PPCPS: A COMPLEX ISSUE ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

There is no abstract for this product. If further information is requested, please refer to the bibliographic citation and contact the person listed under Contact field. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for media, responding to public inquiries. Subtask 3: T

Assessing the Capabilities of Training Simulations: A Method and Simulation Networking (SIMNET) Application

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-06-01

Comments: Platoon cannot prepare for crossing the area or conduct decontamination in SIMNET. A-27 PLATOON ARTEP 17-237-10-MTP PERFORM CHEMICAL ... Chemical warfare is not represented in SIMNET. COMPANY TEAM ARTEP 71-1-MTP PERFORM LOCAL RADIOLOGICAL RECONNAISSANCE (03-2-C032) Task Rating: N Subtask... CHEMICAL ATTACK (03-2-C013) Task Ri#ting: N Subtask/Standard Ratings: +1 N aO bN 2 M aO bH 3 N aO bN Comments: Chemical warfare is not represented in the

Effect of evolocumab or ezetimibe added to moderate- or high-intensity statin therapy on LDL-C lowering in patients with hypercholesterolemia: the LAPLACE-2 randomized clinical trial.

PubMed

Robinson, Jennifer G; Nedergaard, Bettina S; Rogers, William J; Fialkow, Jonathan; Neutel, Joel M; Ramstad, David; Somaratne, Ransi; Legg, Jason C; Nelson, Patric; Scott, Rob; Wasserman, Scott M; Weiss, Robert

2014-05-14

In phase 2 studies, evolocumab, a fully human monoclonal antibody to PCSK9, reduced LDL-C levels in patients receiving statin therapy. To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of evolocumab when used in combination with a moderate- vs high-intensity statin. Phase 3, 12-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo- and ezetimibe-controlled study conducted between January and December of 2013 in patients with primary hypercholesterolemia and mixed dyslipidemia at 198 sites in 17 countries. Patients (n = 2067) were randomized to 1 of 24 treatment groups in 2 steps. Patients were initially randomized to a daily, moderate-intensity (atorvastatin [10 mg], simvastatin [40 mg], or rosuvastatin [5 mg]) or high-intensity (atorvastatin [80 mg], rosuvastatin [40 mg]) statin. After a 4-week lipid-stabilization period, patients (n = 1899) were randomized to compare evolocumab (140 mg every 2 weeks or 420 mg monthly) with placebo (every 2 weeks or monthly) or ezetimibe (10 mg or placebo daily; atorvastatin patients only) when added to statin therapies. Percent change from baseline in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) level at the mean of weeks 10 and 12 and at week 12. Evolocumab reduced LDL-C levels by 66% (95% CI, 58% to 73%) to 75% (95% CI, 65% to 84%) (every 2 weeks) and by 63% (95% CI, 54% to 71%) to 75% (95% CI, 67% to 83%) (monthly) vs placebo at the mean of weeks 10 and 12 in the moderate- and high-intensity statin-treated groups; the LDL-C reductions at week 12 were comparable. For moderate-intensity statin groups, evolocumab every 2 weeks reduced LDL-C from a baseline mean of 115 to 124 mg/dL to an on-treatment mean of 39 to 49 mg/dL; monthly evolocumab reduced LDL-C from a baseline mean of 123 to 126 mg/dL to an on-treatment mean of 43 to 48 mg/dL. For high-intensity statin groups, evolocumab every 2 weeks reduced LDL-C from a baseline mean of 89 to 94 mg/dL to an on-treatment mean of 35 to 38 mg/dL; monthly evolocumab reduced LDL-C from a baseline mean of 89 to 94 mg/dL to an on-treatment mean of 33 to 35 mg/dL. Adverse events were reported in 36%, 40%, and 39% of evolocumab-, ezetimibe-, and placebo-treated patients, respectively. The most common adverse events in evolocumab-treated patients were back pain, arthralgia, headache, muscle spasms, and pain in extremity (all <2%). In this 12-week trial conducted among patients with primary hypercholesterolemia and mixed dyslipidemia, evolocumab added to moderate- or high-intensity statin therapy resulted in additional LDL-C lowering. Further studies are needed to evaluate the longer-term clinical outcomes and safety of this approach for LDL-C lowering. clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01763866.

Spinal Cord Injury-Induced Dysautonomia via Plasticity in Paravertebral Sympathetic Postganglionic

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-10-01

for future study Data analysis and publications Major Task 3: Data analysis and publications months % completion/ Completion dates Subtask 1...Data analysis 6-36 25% Subtask 2: Manuscript writing and submission 24-36 10% Milestone(s) Achieved: Dissemination of scientific results. b. What...ganglia by computational simulation and dynamic-clamp analysis . Journal of neurophysiology 92, 2659- 2671, doi:10.1152/jn.00470.2004 (2004). 14 Llewellyn

Aerospace engineering design by systematic decomposition and multilevel optimization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sobieszczanski-Sobieski, J.; Giles, G. L.; Barthelemy, J.-F. M.

1984-01-01

This paper describes a method for systematic analysis and optimization of large engineering systems, e.g., aircraft, by decomposition of a large task into a set of smaller, self-contained subtasks that can be solved concurrently. The subtasks may be arranged in many hierarchical levels with the assembled system at the top level. Analyses are carried out in each subtask using inputs received from other subtasks, and are followed by optimizations carried out from the bottom up. Each optimization at the lower levels is augmented by analysis of its sensitivity to the inputs received from other subtasks to account for the couplings among the subtasks in a formal manner. The analysis and optimization operations alternate iteratively until they converge to a system design whose performance is maximized with all constraints satisfied. The method, which is still under development, is tentatively validated by test cases in structural applications and an aircraft configuration optimization. It is pointed out that the method is intended to be compatible with the typical engineering organization and the modern technology of distributed computing.

Task partitioning in a robot swarm: object retrieval as a sequence of subtasks with direct object transfer.

PubMed

Pini, Giovanni; Brutschy, Arne; Scheidler, Alexander; Dorigo, Marco; Birattari, Mauro

2014-01-01

We study task partitioning in the context of swarm robotics. Task partitioning is the decomposition of a task into subtasks that can be tackled by different workers. We focus on the case in which a task is partitioned into a sequence of subtasks that must be executed in a certain order. This implies that the subtasks must interface with each other, and that the output of a subtask is used as input for the subtask that follows. A distinction can be made between task partitioning with direct transfer and with indirect transfer. We focus our study on the first case: The output of a subtask is directly transferred from an individual working on that subtask to an individual working on the subtask that follows. As a test bed for our study, we use a swarm of robots performing foraging. The robots have to harvest objects from a source, situated in an unknown location, and transport them to a home location. When a robot finds the source, it memorizes its position and uses dead reckoning to return there. Dead reckoning is appealing in robotics, since it is a cheap localization method and it does not require any additional external infrastructure. However, dead reckoning leads to errors that grow in time if not corrected periodically. We compare a foraging strategy that does not make use of task partitioning with one that does. We show that cooperation through task partitioning can be used to limit the effect of dead reckoning errors. This results in improved capability of locating the object source and in increased performance of the swarm. We use the implemented system as a test bed to study benefits and costs of task partitioning with direct transfer. We implement the system with real robots, demonstrating the feasibility of our approach in a foraging scenario.

Design issues for grid-connected photovoltaic systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ropp, Michael Eugene

1998-08-01

Photovoltaics (PV) is the direct conversion of sunlight to electrical energy. In areas without centralized utility grids, the benefits of PV easily overshadow the present shortcomings of the technology. However, in locations with centralized utility systems, significant technical challenges remain before utility-interactive PV (UIPV) systems can be integrated into the mix of electricity sources. One challenge is that the needed computer design tools for optimal design of PV systems with curved PV arrays are not available, and even those that are available do not facilitate monitoring of the system once it is built. Another arises from the issue of islanding. Islanding occurs when a UIPV system continues to energize a section of a utility system after that section has been isolated from the utility voltage source. Islanding, which is potentially dangerous to both personnel and equipment, is difficult to prevent completely. The work contained within this thesis targets both of these technical challenges. In Task 1, a method for modeling a PV system with a curved PV array using only existing computer software is developed. This methodology also facilitates comparison of measured and modeled data for use in system monitoring. The procedure is applied to the Georgia Tech Aquatic Center (GTAC) FV system. In the work contained under Task 2, islanding prevention is considered. The existing state-of-the- art is thoroughly reviewed. In Subtask 2.1, an analysis is performed which suggests that standard protective relays are in fact insufficient to guarantee protection against islanding. In Subtask 2.2. several existing islanding prevention methods are compared in a novel way. The superiority of this new comparison over those used previously is demonstrated. A new islanding prevention method is the subject under Subtask 2.3. It is shown that it does not compare favorably with other existing techniques. However, in Subtask 2.4, a novel method for dramatically improving this new islanding prevention method is described. It is shown, both by computer modeling and experiment, that this new method is one of the most effective available today. Finally, under Subtask 2.5, the effects of certain types of loads; on the effectiveness of islanding prevention methods are discussed.

Correlation between Octopus perimetry and fluorescein angiography after strontium-90 plaque brachytherapy for subfoveal exudative age related macular degeneration.

PubMed

Jaakkola, A; Vesti, E; Immonen, I

1998-07-01

To evaluate the correlation between the central visual field and changes in fluorescein angiography and fundus photography in patients treated with strontium plaque radiotherapy for subfoveal exudative age related macular degeneration (AMD). Octopus program 34 automated static perimetry, fluorescein angiography, and colour fundus photography were performed on 19 patients at baseline and at 12 months after strontium-90 plaque therapy. A schematic picture outlining the areas of hyperfluorescent neovascular membranes and subretinal blood was drawn of a projected 30 degrees fundus fluorescein angiogram. This drawing was superimposed on the size adjusted Octopus visual field. The changes in retinal sensitivity were calculated and related to angiographic changes. Three of the 19 patients had a reliability factor (RF) > 15% and were excluded from further analysis. In the remaining 16 patients the mean defect (MD) and loss variance (LV) values remained unchanged in patients showing regression of the choroidal neovascular membrane (CNVM) to irradiation at 12 months. MD was 7.7 (SD 1.7) at baseline and 7.6 (1.9) at 12 months (p = 0.86), and LV was 32.6 (13.9) at baseline and 32.4 (15.7) at 12 months (p = 0.94). However, in patients with progression of the CNVM at 12 months, both the MD and LV increased significantly during the 12 month follow up (MD from 7.3 (2.9) to 13.1 (3.6) (p = 0.05) and LV from 31.0 (22.9) to 71.8 (24.1) (p = 0.017)). When comparing the mean retinal sensitivity in the area of the primary CNVM (including classic, occult, and haemorrhagic components), the results were analogous: in patients with a regression of the CNVM after irradiation the mean sensitivity remained almost unchanged. It was 10.3 (6.4) dB at baseline and 9.4 (7.3) dB at 12 months (p = 0.58). In five out of 11 patients (45%) with regression of the CNVM, the mean retinal sensitivity even improved by 2.0-5.0 dB in the area of the original lesion during follow up. Instead, in patients showing progression of the CNVM at 12 months, there was a significant loss in mean retinal sensitivity--from 9.9 (4.6) dB at baseline to 1.0 (1.1) dB at 12 months (p = 0.019). The mean retinal sensitivity in the area of the irradiated but clinically normal retina during follow up was not significantly altered (21.5 dB at baseline, 19.7 dB at 12 months (p = 0.10)). Regression of subfoveal choroidal membranes in AMD after focal strontium irradiation is connected with stabilisation or even improvement of retinal sensitivity in central visual field measured by automated perimetry. Strontium plaque irradiation does not change the sensitivity in clinically normal paramacular retina during a 12 month follow up.

[Efficacy and safety of deferasirox in aplastic anemia patients with iron overload: a single arm, multi-center,prospective study in China].

PubMed

Shi, Jun; Chang, Hong; Zhang, Li; Shao, Yinqi; Nie, Neng; Zhang, Jing; Huang, Jinbo; Zhang, Li; Tang, Xudong; Quan, Richeng; Zheng, Chunmei; Xiao, Haiyan; Hu, Dengming; Hu, Lingyan; Liu, Feng; Zhou, Yongming; Zheng, Yizhou; Zhang, Fengkui

2016-01-01

To explore the efficacy and safety of deferasirox in aplastic anemia (AA)patients with iron overload. A single arm, multi- center, prospective, open- label study was conducted to evaluate absolute change in serum ferritin (SF)from baseline to 12 months of deferasirox administration, initially at a dose of 20 mg·kg(-1)·d(-1), and the safety in 64 AA patients with iron overload. All patients started their deferasirox treatment with a daily dose of 20 mg · kg(-1) ·d(-1). The mean actual dose was (18.6±3.60) mg · kg(-1)·d(-1). The median SF decreased from 4 924 (2 718- 6 765)μg/L at baseline (n=64) to 3 036 (1 474- 5 551)μg/L at 12 months (n=23) with the percentage change from baseline as 38%. A median SF decrease of 651 (126-2 125)μg/L was observed at the end of study in 23 patients who completed 12 months' treatment, the median SF level decreased by 1 167(580-4 806)μg/L [5 271(3 420-8 278)μg/L at baseline; 3 036(1 474-5 551)μg/L after 12 months' treatment; the percentage change from baseline as 42% ] after 12 months of deferasirox treatment. The most common adverse events (AEs) were increased serum creatinine levels (40.98%), gastrointestinal discomfort (40.98%), elevated liver transaminase (ALT: 21.31%; AST: 13.11%)and proteinuria (24.59%). The increased serum creatinine levels were reversible and non-progressive. Of 38 patients with concomitant cyclosporine use, 12(31.8%)patients had two consecutive values >ULN, 10(26.3%)patients had two consecutive values >1.33 baseline values, but only 1(2.6%)patient's serum creatinine increased more than 1.33 baseline values and exceeded ULN. For both AST and ALT, no patients experienced two post- baseline values >5 ×ULN or >10 × ULN during the whole study. In AA patients with low baseline PLT count (less than 50 × 10(9)/L), there was no decrease for median PLT level during 12 months' treatment period. AA patients with iron overload could achieve satisfactory efficacy of iron chelation by deferasirox treatment. The drug was well tolerated with a clinically manageable safety profile and no major adverse events.

Additional BCAA-enriched nutrient mixture improves the nutritional condition in cirrhotic patients with hypoalbuminemia despite treatment with regular BCAA granules: A pilot study.

PubMed

Fukui, Aiko; Kawabe, Naoto; Hashimoto, Senju; Murao, Michihito; Nakano, Takuji; Shimazaki, Hiroaki; Kan, Toshiki; Nakaoka, Kazunori; Ohki, Masashi; Takagawa, Yuka; Kamei, Hiroyuki; Yoshioka, Kentaro

2015-07-01

To elucidate the effect of adding branched-chain amino acid (BCAA)-enriched nutrient mixtures in cirrhotic patients with hypoalbuminemia despite the use of BCAA granules. A BCAA-enriched nutrient mixture containing 5.6 g of BCAA and 210 kcal was additionally administered in 40 cirrhotic patients with hypoalbuminemia despite their treatment with BCAA granules containing 12 g of BCAA. Laboratory data were assessed at 6 months before beginning additional therapy, at baseline, and at 6 months after baseline. Serum albumin levels significantly decreased from 6 months before baseline (3.14±0.47 g/dL) to baseline (2.83±0.46 g/dL), despite the treatment with BCAA granules (p<0.001), and tended to increase from baseline to 6 months after baseline (2.95±0.42 g/dL) (p=0.084). In the subset of 23 patients without hepatocellular carcinoma treatments, upper gastrointestinal tract bleeding, or albumin infusion, serum albumin levels significantly increased from baseline (2.93±0.38 g/dL) to 6 months after baseline (3.15±0.34 g/dL) (p=0.014). Additional therapy with BCAA-enriched nutrient mixtures increased serum albumin levels of the cirrhotic patients with hypoalbuminemia despite the treatment with BCAA granules and without hepatocellular carcinoma treatment, upper gastrointestinal tract bleeding, or albumin infusion.

Calcium Absorption Response to Cholecalciferol Supplementation in Hemodialysis

PubMed Central

Zena, Mohsen; Lund, Richard; Heaney, Robert P.

2013-01-01

Summary Background and objectives Recent understanding of extrarenal production of calcitriol has led to the use of more vitamin D supplementation in CKD populations. This paper reports the effect of cholecalciferol supplementation on calcium absorption. Design, setting, participants, & measurements Paired calcium absorption tests were done before and after 12–13 weeks of 20,000 IU weekly cholecalciferol supplementation in 30 participants with stage 5 CKD on hemodialysis. The study was conducted from April to December of 2011. Calcium absorption was tested with a standardized meal containing 300 mg calcium carbonate intrinsically labeled with 45Ca; 25-hydroxyvitamin D and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D were measured. Results 25-Hydroxyvitamin D rose from 14.2 ng/ml (11.5–18.5) at baseline to 49.3 ng/ml (42.3–58.1) at the end of the study (P<0.001). 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D rose from 15.1 (10.5–18.8) pg/ml at baseline to 20.5 (17.0–24.7) pg/ml at the end of the study (P<0.001). The median baseline calcium absorption was 12% (7%–17%) and 12% (7%–16%) at the end of study. Conclusions Patients with stage 5 CKD on hemodialysis had very low calcium absorption values at baseline, and cholecalciferol supplementation that raised 25(OH)D levels to 50 ng/ml had no effect on calcium absorption. PMID:23411428

Vitamin D3 supplementation increases fibroblast growth factor-23 in HIV-infected youth treated with tenofovir disoproxil fumarate

PubMed Central

Havens, Peter L; Hazra, Rohan; Stephensen, Charles B; Kiser, Jennifer J; Flynn, Patricia M; Wilson, Craig M; Rutledge, Brandy; Bethel, James; Pan, Cynthia G; Woodhouse, Leslie R; Van Loan, Marta D; Liu, Nancy; Lujan-Zilbermann, Jorge; Baker, Alyne; Kapogiannis, Bill G; Gordon, Catherine M; Mulligan, Kathleen

2014-01-01

Background Tenofovir (TDF) is associated with phosphaturia and elevated 1,25 dihydroxy vitamin D (1,25-OH(2)D). Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) causes phosphaturia and increases in response to elevated 1,25-OH(2)D. Vitamin D binding protein (VDBP) binds to 1,25-OH(2)D, decreasing its biologic activity, and is elevated in persons with higher plasma tenofovir concentrations. We compared FGF23 and VDBP before and after vitamin D3 (VITD) supplementation in youth treated with combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) containing or not containing TDF. Methods A randomized controlled trial in HIV+ youth ages 18–25 years enrolled participants based on cART treatment with TDF (TDF, N=118) or without TDF (no-TDF, N=85) and randomized within those groups to VITD (50,000 IU every four weeks) or placebo (PL). We measured FGF23 and VDBP and calculated free 1,25-OH(2)D at baseline and week 12, and compared changes by TDF treatment and VITD randomized group. Results At baseline, serum FGF23 concentration showed a quadratic relationship with 1,25-OH(2)D most pronounced in the TDF group. At week 12, total and free 1,25-OH(2)D increased in the VITD but not PL groups, independent of TDF use. FGF23 increased in the TDF group receiving VITD, but there was no FGF23 change in the no-TDF group receiving VITD or the PL groups. The adjusted mean change in FGF23 from baseline to week 12 was +7.7 pg/mL in the TDF/VITD group, compared to −1.7 (no-TDF/VITD, p=0.010); −1.3 (TDF/PL, p=0.006); and +1.1 (no-TDF/PL, p=0.035). Conclusions These results suggest that TDF-containing cART may alter the FGF23 response to vitamin D supplementation in HIV-infected youth. PMID:24535626

Using a System Identification Approach to Investigate Subtask Control during Human Locomotion

PubMed Central

Logan, David; Kiemel, Tim; Jeka, John J.

2017-01-01

Here we apply a control theoretic view of movement to the behavior of human locomotion with the goal of using perturbations to learn about subtask control. Controlling one's speed and maintaining upright posture are two critical subtasks, or underlying functions, of human locomotion. How the nervous system simultaneously controls these two subtasks was investigated in this study. Continuous visual and mechanical perturbations were applied concurrently to subjects (n = 20) as probes to investigate these two subtasks during treadmill walking. Novel application of harmonic transfer function (HTF) analysis to human motor behavior was used, and these HTFs were converted to the time-domain based representation of phase-dependent impulse response functions (ϕIRFs). These ϕIRFs were used to identify the mapping from perturbation inputs to kinematic and electromyographic (EMG) outputs throughout the phases of the gait cycle. Mechanical perturbations caused an initial, passive change in trunk orientation and, at some phases of stimulus presentation, a corrective trunk EMG and orientation response. Visual perturbations elicited a trunk EMG response prior to a trunk orientation response, which was subsequently followed by an anterior-posterior displacement response. This finding supports the notion that there is a temporal hierarchy of functional subtasks during locomotion in which the control of upper-body posture precedes other subtasks. Moreover, the novel analysis we apply has the potential to probe a broad range of rhythmic behaviors to better understand their neural control. PMID:28123365

Chemical Library Screening for Potential Therapeutics Using Novel Cell Based Models of ALS

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-06-01

Major Task 1, Subtask 1. Our first major activity in year 1 was the design and engineering of a custom inducible plasmid for expressing fluorescently...back to that construct. Other achievements during this first major activity derived from investigating why Broccoli RNA aptamer did not fold...These are outlined below in the CHANGES/PROBLEMS section. Major Task 1, Subtask 2. Our second major activity in year 1 was to generate human neural

Genetic Variations in SLCO Transporter Genes Contributing to Racial Disparity in Aggressiveness of Prostate Cancer

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-10-01

situ RNA hybridization staining of a TMA set and tissue sections from Roswell Park Cancer Institute (RPCI) and PCaP, respectively; 2) completion of...Facility at Roswell Park Cancer Institute (RPCI). Three Subtasks were proposed: Subtask 1 (months 1-3): Obtain approval for IRB protocol and request...Resource Network (PRN) at Roswell Park Cancer Institute (RPCI). The predominantly expressed SLCO transporters in AA or EA, and the transporters with

Unlocking Barriers to DNA Vaccine Immunogenicity: A Cross-Species Analysis of Cytosolic DNA Sensing in Skeletal Muscle Myocytes

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-10-01

CRISPR Subtask 1A: i) design and produce mammalian expression plasmids encoding the Cas9 protein and specially...duration in SOW: 2017 Q4 – 2018 Q1 Subtask 2A: i) produce mouse myocyte cell lines that have undergone gene disruption via a technique named CRISPR ii...named CRISPR ii) confirm gene disruption and GFP expression iii) select multiple individual clones characterized with quantitative gene

Multiple night-time doses of valerian (Valeriana officinalis) had minimal effects on CYP3A4 activity and no effect on CYP2D6 activity in healthy volunteers.

PubMed

Donovan, Jennifer L; DeVane, C Lindsay; Chavin, Kenneth D; Wang, Jun-Sheng; Gibson, Bryan B; Gefroh, Holly A; Markowitz, John S

2004-12-01

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is a popular dietary supplement. The objective of this study was to assess the influence of a valerian extract on the activity of the drug-metabolizing enzymes cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) and 3A4. Probe drugs dextromethorphan (30 mg; CYP2D6 activity) and alprazolam (2 mg; CYP3A4 activity) were administered orally to healthy volunteers (n = 12) at baseline and again after exposure to two 500-mg valerian tablets (1000 mg) nightly for 14 days. The valerian supplement contained a total valerenic acid content of 5.51 mg/tablet. Dextromethorphan to dextorphan metabolic ratios (DMRs) and alprazolam pharmacokinetics were determined at baseline and after valerian treatment. The DMR was 0.214 +/- 0.025 at baseline and 0.254 +/- 0.026 after valerian supplementation (p > 0.05). For alprazolam, the maximum concentration in plasma was significantly increased after treatment with valerian (25 +/- 7 ng/ml versus 31 +/- 8 ng/ml; p < 0.05). There were no significant differences in other pharmacokinetic parameters at baseline and after valerian exposure (all p values > or = 0.05; time to reach maximum concentration in plasma, 3.0 +/- 3.2 versus 3.1 +/- 2.1 h; area under the plasma concentration versus time curve, 471 +/- 183 versus 539 +/- 240 hx ng x ml(-1); half-life of elimination, 13.5 +/- 4.3 versus 12.2 +/- 5.6 h). Our results indicate that although a modest increase was observed in the alprazolam Cmax, typical doses of valerian are unlikely to produce clinically significant effects on the disposition of medications dependent on the CYP2D6 or CYP3A4 pathways of metabolism.

Useful field of view test performance throughout adulthood in subjects without ocular disorders.

PubMed

Woutersen, Karlijn; van den Berg, Albert V; Boonstra, F Nienke; Theelen, Thomas; Goossens, Jeroen

2018-01-01

Previous research has shown an age-related decline in Useful Field of View (UFOV) test performance, which measures the duration required to extract relevant information from a scene in three subtasks. However, these results are mostly based on data that may have been confounded by (age-related) ocular diseases. We examined UFOV performance in subjects aged 19.5 to 70.3 years to investigate how UFOV performance changes throughout adulthood. All subjects underwent a thorough ophthalmological examination to exclude ocular disorders. We also examined some elementary visual functions, i.e., near and far visual acuity, crowding and contrast sensitivity. We investigated whether these functions were related to age and whether they could explain a possible age-related decline in UFOV performance. The subjects (n = 41) performed very well on almost every measure and reached far better UFOV and visual acuity scores than those reported by other studies that relied on self-reported absence of ocular pathology. We did not find significant relationships between age and any of the elementary visual functions or the first two UFOV subtasks (R2UFOV1 = 0.03, p = 0.25; R2UFOV2 = 0.07, p = 0.10). However, we found an age-related decline in performance on the third UFOV subtask (R2UFOV3 = 0.36, p < 0.001), which was unrelated to performance on the elementary visual function tasks. Our results show that performance on the first two UFOV subtasks as well as central elementary visual functions may remain high in the absence of obvious ophthalmological pathology.

Baseline 24-2 Central Visual Field Damage Is Predictive of Global Progressive Field Loss.

PubMed

Garg, Aakriti; De Moraes, C Gustavo; Cioffi, George A; Girkin, Christopher A; Medeiros, Felipe A; Weinreb, Robert N; Zangwill, Linda M; Liebmann, Jeffrey M

2018-03-01

Central visual field (VF) damage in glaucoma patients can significantly hinder daily activities. The present study investigates whether the presence of localized baseline damage to the central 10 degrees of the VF is predictive of faster global mean deviation (MD) progression. Prospective cohort study. Eyes from the multicenter African Descent and Glaucoma Evaluation Study (ADAGES) with established glaucoma and VF loss and a minimum of 5 24-2 VFs were eligible. Baseline central 24-2 damage was defined as any of the 12 central-most points with total deviation (TD) values at P < 0.5% on 2 consecutive examinations. Progression was determined using trend-based and event-based criteria: (1) rates of MD change significantly faster than zero and (2) >-5 dB MD loss over the entire follow-up. A total of 827 eyes of 584 patients were studied. Mean rate of MD change of the entire sample was -0.15 dB/year (95% CI: -0.19 to -0.12, P < .001). Eyes with baseline central damage progressed faster than those without (difference: β central  = -0.07 dB/year, 95% CI: -0.11 to -0.01, P = .011) and were more likely to experience MD loss greater than 5 dB (hazard ratio = 3.0 [95% CI: 2.1-4.1, P < .001]). These differences remained significant after adjusting for confounders. The presence of central VF damage at baseline is significantly associated with more rapid global progression. Detection of central VF damage aids in stratification of high-risk patients who may need intensive surveillance and aggressive treatment. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Development of Less Toxic Treatment Strategies for Metastatic and Drug-Resistant Breast Cancer Using Noninvasive Optical Monitoring

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-09-01

models has been evaluated, with one good option, the Py230 cell lines, as our choice for use in future studies . We have conducted the first study ... Study of Progressive Resistance Major Task 6: dDOS fabrication Subtask 15: Design /Fabricate dDOS system and new custom dDOS probe 6-24 Dr...until year 3 of the study , based on current accrual trends with our clinical collaborators at the Boston Medical Center for different projects, the

Naturalistic Assessment of Executive Function and Everyday Multitasking in Healthy Older Adults

PubMed Central

McAlister, Courtney; Schmitter-Edgecombe, Maureen

2013-01-01

Everyday multitasking and its cognitive correlates were investigated in an older adult population using a naturalistic task, the Day Out Task. Fifty older adults and 50 younger adults prioritized, organized, initiated and completed a number of subtasks in a campus apartment to prepare for a day out (e.g., gather ingredients for a recipe, collect change for a bus ride). Participants also completed tests assessing cognitive constructs important in multitasking. Compared to younger adults, the older adults took longer to complete the everyday tasks and more poorly sequenced the subtasks. Although they initiated, completed, and interweaved a similar number of subtasks, the older adults demonstrated poorer task quality and accuracy, completing more subtasks inefficiently. For the older adults, reduced prospective memory abilities were predictive of poorer task sequencing, while executive processes and prospective memory were predictive of inefficiently completed subtasks. The findings suggest that executive dysfunction and prospective memory difficulties may contribute to the age-related decline of everyday multitasking abilities in healthy older adults. PMID:23557096

Engineering and Physics Optimization of Breed and Burn Fast Reactor Systems

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

Michael J. Driscoll; Pavel Hejzlar; Peter Yarsky

2005-12-09

This project is organized under four major tasks (each of which has two or more subtasks) with contributions among the three collaborating organizations (MIT, INEEL and ANL-West): Task A: Core Physics and Fuel Cycle; Task B: Core Thermal Hydraulics; Task C: Plant Design Task; and D: Fuel Design.

A Development Testbed for ALPS-Based Systems

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-10-01

alloted to tile application because of size or power constraints). Given an underlying support ALPS architecture such as the d-ALPS architecture, a...resource on which it is assigned at runtime. A second representation problem is that most graph analysis algorithms treat either graphs with weighted links...subtask) associated with it but is treated like other links. In d-ALPS, as a priority precedence link, it would cause the binding of a pro- cessor: as a

The National Shipbuilding Research Program. Environmental Studies and Testing (Phase IV)

DTIC Science & Technology

2000-11-15

Subtask responded to the action taken by the State of Virginia to incorporate limitations of 50 parts per trillion TBT ( tributyltin ) in shipyard...Funds actually expended totaled $6,750. Subtask #22 - Document Technologies Available to Clean Brackish Waters to 50 parts per trillion TBT Levels. This...Subtask concluded that there were NO technologies extant to achieve a reduction in shipyard effluent TBT to below 50 ppt. This has become an

Small Engine Technology (SET) - Task 13 ANOPP Noise Prediction for Small Engines: Jet Noise Prediction Module, Wing Shielding Module, and System Studies Results

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lieber, Lysbeth; Golub, Robert (Technical Monitor)

2000-01-01

This Final Report has been prepared by AlliedSignal Engines and Systems, Phoenix, Arizona, documenting work performed during the period May 1997 through June 1999, under the Small Engines Technology Program, Contract No. NAS3-27483, Task Order 13, ANOPP Noise Prediction for Small Engines. The report specifically covers the work performed under Subtasks 4, 5 and 6. Subtask 4 describes the application of a semi-empirical procedure for jet noise prediction, subtask 5 describes the development of a procedure to predict the effects of wing shielding, and subtask 6 describes the results of system studies of the benefits of the new noise technology on business and regional aircraft.

ABSTRACT PRESENTATION--PHARMACEUTICALS AS ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Pharmaceuticals comprise a large and diverse array of contaminants that can occur in the environmentfrom the combined activities and actions of multitudes of individuals as well as from veterinary andagricultural use. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for med

ION COMPOSITION ELUCIDATION (ICE) FOR ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

There is no abstract available for this product. If further information is requested, please refer to the bibliographic citation and contact the person listed under Contact field. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for media, responding to public inquiries. S

PHARMACEUTICALS AND PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTS ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

There is no abstract available for this product. If further information is requested, please refer to the bibliographic citation and contact the person listed under Contact field. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for media, responding to public inquiries. S

PHARMACEUTICAL AND PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTS IN ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

There is no abstract available for this product. If further information is requested, please refer to the bibliographic citation and contact the person listed under Contact field. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for media, responding to public inquiries. S

OVERVIEW OF PHARMACEUTICALS AND PERSONAL ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

There is no abstract available for this product. If further information is requested, please refer to the bibliographic citation and contact the person listed under Contact field. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for media, responding to public inquiries. S

ORIGINS AND RAMIFICATIONS OF PHARMACEUTICALS & ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

There is no abstract available for this product. If further information is requested, please refer to the bibliographic citation and contact the person listed under Contact field. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for media, responding to public inquiries. S

PHARMACEUTICAL AND PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTS ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

There is no abstract available for this product. If further information is requested, please refer to the bibliographic citation and contact the person listed under Contact field. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for media, responding to public inquiries. S

ORIGINS AND RAMIFICATIONS OF PHARMACEUTICALS ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

There is no abstract available for this product. If further information is requested, please refer to the bibliographic citation and contact the person listed under Contact field. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for media, responding to public inquiries. S

PHARMACEUTICALS AS ENVIRONMENTAL ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

There is no abstract available for this product. If further information is requested, please refer to the bibliographic citation and contact the person listed under Contact field. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for media, responding to public inquiries. S

MERCURY MEASUREMENTS USING DIRECT-ANALYZER ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

There is no abstract available for this product. If further information is requested, please refer to the bibliographic citation and contact the person listed under Contact Field. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for media, responding to public inquiries. S

SLIDE PRESENTATION--PHARMACEUTICALS AS ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

While pharmaceuticals are ubiquitous trace contaminants in the environment, thetypes, concentrations, and relative abundances of individual residues will vary depending on thegeographic locale and time of year, primarily a reflection of differing and varying prescribing andconsumption practices. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical

SYNTHETIC FRAGRANCES IN THE ENVIRONMENT ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

There is no abstract available for this product. If further information is requested, please refer to the bibliographic citation and contact the person listed under Contact field. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for media, responding to public inquiries. S

ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP OF PHARMACEUTICALS ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

There is no abstract available for this product. If further information is requested, please refer to the bibliographic citation and contact the person listed under Contact field. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for media, responding to public inquiries. S

INVESTIGATING ENVIRONMENTAL SINKS OF MACROLIDE ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

There is no abstract available for this product. If further information is requested, please refer to the bibliographic citation and contact the person listed under the Contact Field. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for media, responding to public inquirie

LEVELS OF SYNTHETIC MUSKS COMPOUNDS IN ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

There is no abstract available for this product. If further information is requested, please refer to the bibliographic citation and contact the person listed under Contact field. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for media, responding to public inquiries. S

ADVANCED TOOLS FOR ASSESSING SELECTED ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

The purpose of this poster is to present the application and assessment of advanced technologies in a real-world environment - wastewater effluent and source waters - for detecting six drugs (azithromycin, fluoxetine, omeprazole, levothyroxine, methamphetamine, and methylenedioxymethamphetamine). The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technica

POTENTIAL CONCERNS/EFFECTS ON HUMAN AND ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

There is no abstract available for this product. If further information is requested, please refer to the bibliographic citation and contact the person listed under Contact field. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for media, responding to public inquiries. S

MEETING TODAY'S EMERGING CONTAMINANTS WITH ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This presentation will explore the many facets of research and development for emerging contaminants within the USEPA's National Exposure Research Laboratories (Athens, Cincinnati, Las Vegas, and Research Triangle Park). The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for

NON-REGULATED CONTAMINANTS: EMERGING ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

There is no abstract available for this product. If further information is requested, please refer to the bibliographic citation and contact the person listed under Contact field. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for media, responding to public inquiries. S

DETECTION OF ILLCIT DRUGS IN MUNICIPAL ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

There is no abstract available for this product. If further information is requested, please refer to the bibliographic citation and contact the person listed under Contact field. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for media, responding to public inquiries. S

ADVANCED TOOLS FOR ASSESSING SELECTED ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

The purpose of this poster is to present the application and assessment of advanced state-of-the-art technologies in a real-world environment - wastewater effluent and source waters - for detecting six drugs [azithromycin, fluoxetine, omeprazole, levothyroxine, methamphetamine, methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)]. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansi

PRESCRIBING FOR THE ENVIRONMENT | Science Inventory ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

There is no abstract available for this product. If further information is requested, please refer to the bibliographic citation and contact the person listed under Contact Field. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for media, responding to public inquiries. S

INVESTIGATING ENVIRONMENTAL SINKS OF MACROLIDE ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Possible environmental sinks (wastewater effluents, biosolids, sediments) of macrolide antibiotics (i.e., azithromycin, roxithromycin and clarithromycin)are investigated using state-of-the-art analytical chemistry techniques. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews

A NEW HIGH RESOLUTION MASS SPECTROMEY ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

There is no abstract available for this product. If further information is requested, please refer to the bibliographic citation and contact the person listed under Contact field. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for media, responding to public inquiries. S

PHARMACEUTICALS IN SOURCE WATER - OVERVIEW ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

There is no abstract available for this product. If further information is requested, please refer to the bibliographic citation and contact the person listed under Contact field. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for media, responding to public inquiries. S

SPECIATION AND DETECTION OF ORGANOTINS FROM ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

There is no abstract available for this product. If further information is requested, please refer to the bibliographic citation and contact the person listed under Contact field. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for media, responding to public inquiries. S

NEW APPROACHES FOR TRACE ANALYSIS OF ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

There is no abstract available for this product. If further information is requested, please refer to the bibliographic citation and contact the person listed under Contact field. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for media, responding to public inquiries. S

ANTIBIOTICS IN THE ENVIRONMENTS; LESS RECOGNIZED ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

There is no abstract available for this product. If further information is requested, please refer to the bibliographic citation and contact the person listed under Contact field. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for media, responding to public inquiries. S

Detection of Brain Reorganization in Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis Using Functional MRI

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-10-01

accomplish this, we apply comparative assessments of fMRI mappings of language, memory , and motor function, and performance on clinical neurocognitive...community at a target rate of 13 volunteers per quarter period; acquire fMRI data for language, memory , and visual-motor functions (months 3-12). c...consensus fMRI activation maps for language, memory , and visual-motor tasks (months 8-12). f) Subtask 1f. Prepare publication to disseminate our

Energy and macronutrient intake after gastric bypass for morbid obesity: a 3-y observational study focused on protein consumption.

PubMed

Giusti, Vittorio; Theytaz, Fanny; Di Vetta, Véronique; Clarisse, Muriel; Suter, Michel; Tappy, Luc

2016-01-01

The effect of a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) on body weight has been amply documented, but few studies have simultaneously assessed the evolution of energy and macronutrient intakes, energy expenditure, and changes in body composition over time after an RYGB. We evaluated energy and macronutrient intakes, body composition, and the basal metabolic rate (BMR) in obese female patients during the initial 3 y after an RYGB. Sixteen women with a mean ± SEM body mass index (in kg/m(2)) of 44.1 ± 1.6 were included in this prospective observational study. The women were studied on 6 different occasions as follows: before and 1, 3, 6, 12 (n = 16), and 36 (n = 8) mo after surgery. On each occasion, food intake was evaluated from 4- or 7-d dietary records, body composition was assessed with the use of bio-impedancemetry, and energy expenditure was measured with the use of indirect calorimetry. Body weight evolution showed the typical pattern reported after an RYGB. Total energy intake was 2072 ± 108 kcal/d at baseline and decreased to 681 ± 58 kcal/d at 1 mo after surgery (P < 0.05 compared with at baseline). Total energy intake progressively increased to reach 1240 ± 87 kcal/d at 12 mo after surgery (P < 0.05 compared with at 1 mo after surgery) and 1448 ± 57 kcal/d at 36 mo after surgery (P < 0.05 compared with at 12 mo after surgery). Protein intake was 87 ± 4 g/d at baseline and ± 2 g/d 1 mo after surgery (P < 0.05 compared with at baseline) and increased progressively thereafter to reach 57 ± 3 g/d at 36 mo after surgery (P < 0.05 compared with at 1 mo after surgery). Carbohydrate and fat intakes over time showed similar patterns. Protein intake from meat and cheese were significantly reduced early at 1 mo after surgery but increased thereafter (P < 0.05). The BMR decreased from 1.12 ± 0.04 kcal/min at baseline to 0.93 ± 0.03, 0.86 ± 0.03, and 0.85 ± 0.04 kcal/min at 3, 12, and 36 mo after surgery, respectively (all P < 0.05 compared with at baseline). Total energy, carbohydrate, fat, and protein intakes decreased markedly during the initial 1-3 mo after an RYGB, whereas the BMR moderately decreased. The reduction in protein intake was particularly severe at 1 mo after surgery, and protein intake increased gradually after 3-6 mo after surgery. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01891591. © 2016 American Society for Nutrition.

Glycemic excursions are positively associated with HbA1c reduction from baseline after treatment with acarbose in patients with type 2 diabetes on metformin monotherapy.

PubMed

Wang, Jun-Sing; Lee, I-Te; Lee, Wen-Jane; Lin, Shi-Dou; Su, Shih-Li; Tu, Shih-Te; Tseng, Yao-Hsien; Lin, Shih-Yi; Sheu, Wayne Huey-Herng

2017-03-01

The aim of the present study was to examine the association between glycemic excursions before treatment and HbA1c reduction after treatment intensification with acarbose or glibenclamide in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Patients receiving single or dual oral antidiabetic drug treatment with an HbA1c of 7.0-11.0 % (53-97 mmol/mol) were switched to metformin monotherapy (500 mg, t.i.d.) for 8 weeks, followed by randomization to either acarbose (100 mg, t.i.d.) or glibenclamide (5 mg, t.i.d.) as add-on treatment for 16 weeks. Glycemic excursions were assessed as mean amplitude of glycemic excursions (MAGE) with 72-h ambulatory continuous glucose monitoring. Treatment efficacy was evaluated as relative HbA1c reduction (%), calculated as (baseline HbA1c - post-treatment HbA1c)/baseline HbA1c × 100. Fifty patients (mean [±SD] age 53.5 ± 8.2 years, 48 % men, mean baseline HbA1c 8.4 ± 1.2 %) were analyzed. Baseline MAGE was positively correlated with relative HbA1c reduction from baseline in patients treated with acarbose (r = 0.421, P = 0.029) but not glibenclamide (r = 0.052, P = 0.813). Linear regression analysis revealed that the association between baseline MAGE and relative HbA1c reduction from baseline (β = 0.125, P = 0.029) in patients treated with acarbose remained significant after adjustment for several confounders (P < 0.05 for all models). In patients with T2D on metformin monotherapy, baseline MAGE was positively correlated with relative HbA1c reduction from baseline after treatment with acarbose, but not glibenclamide. These findings highlight the importance of glycemic excursions in individualized treatment for patients with T2D. © 2016 Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine (SJTU), Chinese Society of Endocrinology and Chinese Endocrinologist Association and John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.

Adaptive Nonlinear Tracking Control of Kinematically Redundant Robot Manipulators with Sub-Task Extensions

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-01-01

C. Hughes, Spacecraft Attitude Dynamics, New York, NY: Wiley, 1994. [8] H. K. Khalil, “Adaptive Output Feedback Control of Non- linear Systems...Closed-Loop Manipulator Control Using Quaternion Feedback ”, IEEE Trans. Robotics and Automation, Vol. 4, No. 4, pp. 434-440, (1988). [23] E...full-state feedback quaternion based controller de- veloped in [5] and focuses on the design of a general sub-task controller. This sub-task controller

Detection and categorization of bacteria habitats using shallow linguistic analysis

PubMed Central

2015-01-01

Background Information regarding bacteria biotopes is important for several research areas including health sciences, microbiology, and food processing and preservation. One of the challenges for scientists in these domains is the huge amount of information buried in the text of electronic resources. Developing methods to automatically extract bacteria habitat relations from the text of these electronic resources is crucial for facilitating research in these areas. Methods We introduce a linguistically motivated rule-based approach for recognizing and normalizing names of bacteria habitats in biomedical text by using an ontology. Our approach is based on the shallow syntactic analysis of the text that include sentence segmentation, part-of-speech (POS) tagging, partial parsing, and lemmatization. In addition, we propose two methods for identifying bacteria habitat localization relations. The underlying assumption for the first method is that discourse changes with a new paragraph. Therefore, it operates on a paragraph-basis. The second method performs a more fine-grained analysis of the text and operates on a sentence-basis. We also develop a novel anaphora resolution method for bacteria coreferences and incorporate it with the sentence-based relation extraction approach. Results We participated in the Bacteria Biotope (BB) Task of the BioNLP Shared Task 2013. Our system (Boun) achieved the second best performance with 68% Slot Error Rate (SER) in Sub-task 1 (Entity Detection and Categorization), and ranked third with an F-score of 27% in Sub-task 2 (Localization Event Extraction). This paper reports the system that is implemented for the shared task, including the novel methods developed and the improvements obtained after the official evaluation. The extensions include the expansion of the OntoBiotope ontology using the training set for Sub-task 1, and the novel sentence-based relation extraction method incorporated with anaphora resolution for Sub-task 2. These extensions resulted in promising results for Sub-task 1 with a SER of 68%, and state-of-the-art performance for Sub-task 2 with an F-score of 53%. Conclusions Our results show that a linguistically-oriented approach based on the shallow syntactic analysis of the text is as effective as machine learning approaches for the detection and ontology-based normalization of habitat entities. Furthermore, the newly developed sentence-based relation extraction system with the anaphora resolution module significantly outperforms the paragraph-based one, as well as the other systems that participated in the BB Shared Task 2013. PMID:26201262

Carbohydrate crops as a renewable resource for fuels production. Volume III. Juice preservation

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

Fink, D.J.; Allen, B.R.; Litchfield, J.H.

1980-01-29

The objective of this study was to evaluate a process to preserve sugar crop juices. The process is energy conserving in that concentrated sugar solutions are produced with little evaporation of water. A preliminary investigation was conducted of polysaccharide hydrolysis as a means for preserving mixed sugar solutions obtained from crops such as sweet sorghum. Four subtasks have been addressed during this report period: I. Concentration of Pure Sugar Solutions by Hydrolysis of Purified Starch; II. Concentration of Genuine Sugar Crop Juice by Hydrolysis of Purified Starch; III. Concentration of Pure Sugar Solutions by Hydrolysis of Genuine Biomass Starch; andmore » IV. Concentration of Pure Sugar Solutions by Hydrolysis of Cellulosic Materials. The results obtained from the experiments conducted in Subtasks I and II included the following: (1) Concentrated sucrose-glucose-fructose solutions (greater than 50 percent) can be prepared from simulated or actual sweet sorghum juice using enzymatic thinning and saccharification of pure starch-sugar solution mixtures. (2) Enzymatic saccharification of corn meal and cracked wheat in simulated sorghum juice was also demonstrated. (3) Concentration of sugar solutions also can be accomplished by saccharification of cellulosic materials. In our experiments, inhibition of the cellobiase component of the cellulase preparation was observed. The hydrolysis studies were directed to the demonstration of the feasibility of one approach to the preparation of concentrated, microbiologically stable sugar syrups starting with sweet sorghum juice. Future work on Subtask V of this program will continue the investigations already underway and will consider other approaches to the stabilization of juices. Subtask VI of this program will consider the process economics of the Subtask I to IV approaches, or combinations of two or more methods, that are considered to be most feasible for juice preservation.« less

Advanced thermally stable jet fuels: Technical progress report, October 1994--December 1994

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

Schobert, H.H.; Eser, S.; Song, C.

There are five tasks within this project on thermally stable coal-based jet fuels. Progress on each of the tasks is described. Task 1, Investigation of the quantitative degradation chemistry of fuels, has 5 subtasks which are described: Literature review on thermal stability of jet fuels; Pyrolytic and catalytic reactions of potential endothermic fuels: cis- and trans-decalin; Use of site specific {sup 13}C-labeling to examine the thermal stressing of 1-phenylhexane: A case study for the determination of reaction kinetics in complex fuel mixtures versus model compound studies; Estimation of critical temperatures of jet fuels; and Surface effects on deposit formation inmore » a flow reactor system. Under Task 2, Investigation of incipient deposition, the subtask reported is Uncertainty analysis on growth and deposition of particles during heating of coal-derived aviation gas turbine fuels; under Task 3, Characterization of solid gums, sediments, and carbonaceous deposits, is subtask, Studies of surface chemistry of PX-21 activated carbon during thermal degradation of jet A-1 fuel and n-dodecane; under Task 4, Coal-based fuel stabilization studies, is subtask, Exploratory screening and development potential of jet fuel thermal stabilizers over 400 C; and under Task 5, Exploratory studies on the direct conversion of coal to high quality jet fuels, are 4 subtasks: Novel approaches to low-severity coal liquefaction and coal/resid co-processing using water and dispersed catalysts; Shape-selective naphthalene hydrogenation for production of thermally stable jet fuels; Design of a batch mode and a continuous mode three-phase reactor system for the liquefaction of coal and upgrading of coal liquids; and Exploratory studies on coal liquids upgrading using mesopores molecular sieve catalysts. 136 refs., 69 figs., 24 tabs.« less

FBI fingerprint identification automation study. AIDS 3 evaluation report. Volume 2: Technical feasibility

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mulhall, B. D. L.

1980-01-01

The results of this effort are presented in a manner for use by both the AIDS 3 Operational and Economic Feasibility subtasks as well as the Development of Alternative subtask. The approach taken was to identify the major functions that appear in AIDS 3 and then to determine which technologies would be needed for support. The technologies were then examined from the point of view of reliability, throughput, security, availability, cost and possible future trends. Whenever possible graphs are given to indicate projected costs of rapidly changing technologies.

[Features of dual--postural and calculation--task performance in patients with consequences of traumatic brain injury].

PubMed

Zharikova, A V; Zhavoronkova, L A; Maksakova, O A; Kuptsova, S V

2012-01-01

Dual tasks with voluntary postural control and calculation have been done by 14 patients (25.7 +/- 4.7 yo.) after traumatic brain injury and 40 healthy volunteers (29.8 +/- 2.5 y.o.). Complex clinical (MMSE, FIM, MPAI-3 and Berg scales) and stabilographic evaluation has been performed. According to clinical evaluation 8 patients were included into group 1 with less severe functional deficit and 6 patients formed group 2 with more severe deficit. Parameters of motor and especially cognitive sub-tasks in patients were lower than in healthy subjects in both separate and dual tasks. In group 2 these parameters were lower than in group 1. Certain types of dual task where the quality of sub-tasks, especially of the motor-one increased in healthy subjects and patients of the first group were revealed. The complex of stabilographic parameters which could be used for estimation of quality of sub-tasks performance has been revealed. Dual tasks could be an additional method of evaluation of patients' adaptive possibilities and certain type of dual task could become a promising approach to recovery at late period of rehabilitation.

Correlation between Octopus perimetry and fluorescein angiography after strontium-90 plaque brachytherapy for subfoveal exudative age related macular degeneration

PubMed Central

Jaakkola, A.; Vesti, E.; Immonen, I.

1998-01-01

AIM—To evaluate the correlation between the central visual field and changes in fluorescein angiography and fundus photography in patients treated with strontium plaque radiotherapy for subfoveal exudative age related macular degeneration (AMD).
METHODS—Octopus program 34 automated static perimetry, fluorescein angiography, and colour fundus photography were performed on 19 patients at baseline and at 12 months after strontium-90 plaque therapy. A schematic picture outlining the areas of hyperfluorescent neovascular membranes and subretinal blood was drawn of a projected 30° fundus fluorescein angiogram. This drawing was superimposed on the size adjusted Octopus visual field. The changes in retinal sensitivity were calculated and related to angiographic changes.
RESULTS—Three of the 19 patients had a reliability factor (RF) >15% and were excluded from further analysis. In the remaining 16 patients the mean defect (MD) and loss variance (LV) values remained unchanged in patients showing regression of the choroidal neovascular membrane (CNVM) to irradiation at 12 months. MD was 7.7 (SD 1.7) at baseline and 7.6 (1.9) at 12 months (p = 0.86), and LV was 32.6 (13.9) at baseline and 32.4 (15.7) at 12 months (p = 0.94). However, in patients with progression of the CNVM at 12 months, both the MD and LV increased significantly during the 12 month follow up (MD from 7.3 (2.9) to 13.1 (3.6) ( p = 0.05) and LV from 31.0 (22.9) to 71.8 (24.1) (p = 0.017)). When comparing the mean retinal sensitivity in the area of the primary CNVM (including classic, occult, and haemorrhagic components), the results were analogous: in patients with a regression of the CNVM after irradiation the mean sensitivity remained almost unchanged. It was 10.3 (6.4) dB at baseline and 9.4 (7.3) dB at 12 months (p = 0.58). In five out of 11 patients (45%) with regression of the CNVM, the mean retinal sensitivity even improved by 2.0-5.0 dB in the area of the original lesion during follow up. Instead, in patients showing progression of the CNVM at 12 months, there was a significant loss in mean retinal sensitivity—from 9.9 (4.6) dB at baseline to 1.0 (1.1) dB at 12 months (p = 0.019). The mean retinal sensitivity in the area of the irradiated but clinically normal retina during follow up was not significantly altered (21.5 dB at baseline, 19.7 dB at 12 months (p = 0.10)).
CONCLUSIONS—Regression of subfoveal choroidal membranes in AMD after focal strontium irradiation is connected with stabilisation or even improvement of retinal sensitivity in central visual field measured by automated perimetry. Strontium plaque irradiation does not change the sensitivity in clinically normal paramacular retina during a 12 month follow up.

 Keywords: choroidal neovascular membranes; age related macular degeneration; Octopus perimetry; strontium PMID:9924368

Efficacy and safety of topical calcipotriol in management of alopecia areata: A pilot study.

PubMed

Narang, Tarun; Daroach, Manju; Kumaran, M Sendhil

2017-05-01

Reports have highlighted serum vitamin D deficiency and reduced 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) receptors(VDR) expression on hair follicles of alopecia areata(AA) patients. Very few studies have demonstrated efficacy of topical calcipotriol (vitamin D analogue) in AA. We intended to study the efficacy of calcipotriol lotion 0.005% in AA and correlate its outcome with serum vitamin D levels. We conducted a prospective study, in which 22 patients with AA were treated with calcipotriol lotion 0.005% twice daily for 3 months. Clinico-epidemiological parameters including severity of AA and SALT score were calculated at baseline and at 12 weeks. Hair regrowth was assessed monthly at 4, 8, 12 weeks. Serum vitamin D levels were measured at baseline. After 12 weeks of treatment, hair regrowth was observed in 13 (59.1%) patients. Mean period for onset of disease stabilization and hair regrowth was 4 weeks and 4.21± 2.13 weeks, respectively. Among these 13 patients, SALT 50 and SALT 100 was observed in 6(46.2%) and 2(9%) patients, respectively. Response to treatment was better in patients with lower vitamin D levels (p < .009). Topical calcipotriol can be an alternative treatment in AA and it could prove to be more useful in patients who are vitamin D deficient. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Development of Game-Like Simulations for Procedural Knowledge in Healthcare Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Torrente, Javier; Borro-Escribano, Blanca; Freire, Manuel; del Blanco, Ángel; Marchiori, Eugenio J.; Martinez-Ortiz, Iván; Moreno-Ger, Pablo; Fernández-Manjón, Baltasar

2014-01-01

We present EGDA, an educational game development approach focused on the teaching of procedural knowledge using a cost-effective approach. EGDA proposes four tasks: analysis, design, implementation, and quality assurance that are subdivided in a total of 12 subtasks. One of the benefits of EGDA is that anyone can apply it to develop a game since…

A CNN Regression Approach for Real-Time 2D/3D Registration.

PubMed

Shun Miao; Wang, Z Jane; Rui Liao

2016-05-01

In this paper, we present a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) regression approach to address the two major limitations of existing intensity-based 2-D/3-D registration technology: 1) slow computation and 2) small capture range. Different from optimization-based methods, which iteratively optimize the transformation parameters over a scalar-valued metric function representing the quality of the registration, the proposed method exploits the information embedded in the appearances of the digitally reconstructed radiograph and X-ray images, and employs CNN regressors to directly estimate the transformation parameters. An automatic feature extraction step is introduced to calculate 3-D pose-indexed features that are sensitive to the variables to be regressed while robust to other factors. The CNN regressors are then trained for local zones and applied in a hierarchical manner to break down the complex regression task into multiple simpler sub-tasks that can be learned separately. Weight sharing is furthermore employed in the CNN regression model to reduce the memory footprint. The proposed approach has been quantitatively evaluated on 3 potential clinical applications, demonstrating its significant advantage in providing highly accurate real-time 2-D/3-D registration with a significantly enlarged capture range when compared to intensity-based methods.

Foveal threshold and photoreceptor integrity for prediction of visual acuity after intravitreal aflibercept on age-related macular degeneration.

PubMed

Sakai, Tsutomu; Okude, Sachiyo; Tsuneoka, Hiroshi

2018-01-01

To determine whether baseline foveal threshold and photoreceptor integrity can predict best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at 12 months after intravitreal aflibercept (IVA) therapy in eyes with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD). We evaluated 25 eyes of 25 patients with treatment-naïve neovascular AMD who received IVA once a month for 3 months, followed by once every 2 months for 8 months. BCVA, integrity of the external limiting membrane (ELM) or the ellipsoid zone (EZ) of the photoreceptors, and retinal sensitivity were determined before (baseline) and at 6 and 12 months after initial IVA. The average threshold foveal sensitivity and mean deviation within the central 10° were determined by Humphrey central 10-2 perimetry. Correlations between BCVA at 12 months and integrity of the ELM or EZ, foveal threshold, and mean deviation at each visit were determined. At 12 months, BCVA improved significantly from 0.20±0.23 to 0.10±0.22 logMAR (logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution) units, and foveal threshold and mean deviation improved significantly from 29.0±5.1 and -3.38±3.10 dB to 32.6±3.2 and -1.64±2.10 dB, respectively ( P =0.0009 and P =0.0021). At baseline, both foveal threshold and integrity of the ELM were significantly correlated with BCVA at 12 months ( P =0.0428 and P =0.0275). These results indicate that both integrity of the ELM and foveal threshold at baseline can predict BCVA after treatment for neovascular AMD. There is a possibility that these parameters can predict the efficacy of IVA in each case.

Concurrent Path Planning with One or More Humanoid Robots

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reiland, Matthew J. (Inventor); Sanders, Adam M. (Inventor)

2014-01-01

A robotic system includes a controller and one or more robots each having a plurality of robotic joints. Each of the robotic joints is independently controllable to thereby execute a cooperative work task having at least one task execution fork, leading to multiple independent subtasks. The controller coordinates motion of the robot(s) during execution of the cooperative work task. The controller groups the robotic joints into task-specific robotic subsystems, and synchronizes motion of different subsystems during execution of the various subtasks of the cooperative work task. A method for executing the cooperative work task using the robotic system includes automatically grouping the robotic joints into task-specific subsystems, and assigning subtasks of the cooperative work task to the subsystems upon reaching a task execution fork. The method further includes coordinating execution of the subtasks after reaching the task execution fork.

C-Band Airport Surface Communications System Standards Development. Phase II Final Report. Volume 2: Test Bed Performance Evaluation and Final AeroMACS Recommendations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hall, Edward; Magner, James

2011-01-01

This report is provided as part of ITT s NASA Glenn Research Center Aerospace Communication Systems Technical Support (ACSTS) contract NNC05CA85C, Task 7: New ATM Requirements-Future Communications, C-Band and L-Band Communications Standard Development and was based on direction provided by FAA project-level agreements for New ATM Requirements-Future Communications. Task 7 included two subtasks. Subtask 7-1 addressed C-band (5091- to 5150-MHz) airport surface data communications standards development, systems engineering, test bed and prototype development, and tests and demonstrations to establish operational capability for the Aeronautical Mobile Airport Communications System (AeroMACS). Subtask 7-2 focused on systems engineering and development support of the L-band digital aeronautical communications system (L-DACS). Subtask 7-1 consisted of two phases. Phase I included development of AeroMACS concepts of use, requirements, architecture, and initial high-level safety risk assessment. Phase II builds on Phase I results and is presented in two volumes. Volume I is devoted to concepts of use, system requirements, and architecture, including AeroMACS design considerations. Volume II (this document) describes an AeroMACS prototype evaluation and presents final AeroMACS recommendations. This report also describes airport categorization and channelization methodologies. The purposes of the airport categorization task were (1) to facilitate initial AeroMACS architecture designs and enable budgetary projections by creating a set of airport categories based on common airport characteristics and design objectives, and (2) to offer high-level guidance to potential AeroMACS technology and policy development sponsors and service providers. A channelization plan methodology was developed because a common global methodology is needed to assure seamless interoperability among diverse AeroMACS services potentially supplied by multiple service providers.

Does comorbid subthreshold anxiety affect clinical presentation and treatment response in depression? A preliminary 12-month naturalistic study.

PubMed

Altamura, A Carlo; Montresor, Claudio; Salvadori, Daniele; Mundo, Emanuela

2004-12-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of comorbid subthreshold anxiety on the course and the treatment of Depressive Disorders. The sample studied comprised four groups defined by the DSM-IV Axis I diagnosis: (1) Patients with a Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and an Anxiety Disorder (DA); (2) patients with MDD and a subthreshold Anxiety Disorder (Da); (3) patients with subthreshold depression and an Anxiety Disorder (dA); (4) patients with subthreshold depression and subthreshold anxiety (da). HAMD, HAMA and CGI rating scales were administered monthly for 12 months while patients were treated with different antidepressants. Significant differences were found among the four groups with respect to the baseline depressive symptoms: Da presented more frequently suicidal ideation (chi2=9.568, d.f.=3, p=0.023), psychomotor retardation (chi2=12.568, d.f.=3, p=0.006), sexual dysfunctions (chi2=7.761, d.f.=3, p=0.05), hypochondriacal ideation (chi2=13.633, d.f.=3, p=0.003), weight loss (chi2=9.520, d.f.=3, p=0.023), and diurnal variation of symptoms (chi2=13.258, d.f.=3, p=0.004). With respect to the treatment response Da patients showed an overall worse response to antidepressants, having a longer latency and a lower reduction of symptoms. These results suggest that patients with Major Depression and subthreshold anxiety present with a more severe baseline clinical picture and seem to have a less efficient response to antidepressants.

Supplementation of Vitamin D Deficiency in Patients with Neuroendocrine Tumors Using Over-the-Counter Vitamin D3 Preparations.

PubMed

Robbins, Helen L; Symington, Megan; Mosterman, Barbara; Goodby, Josie; Davies, Louise; Dimitriadis, Georgios K; Kaltsas, Gregory; Randeva, Harpal S; Weickert, Martin O

2018-05-21

Vitamin D (vit-D) deficiency is highly prevalent in patients with gastro-entero-pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP-NET) and has been linked to reduced overall survival. We here assessed the vit-D status in 183 patients with GEP-NET at the time of their first presentation in the ARDEN NET Centre. We further examined the effect of simple advice to increase vit-D intake using over-the-counter vit-D preparations [colecalciferol (Vit-D3), 1,000-2,000 units/day], over a prospective observation period of 24 mo. At baseline, only 33.3% of patients showed vit-D sufficiency (25-OH-vit-D; >50 nmol/L), the remainder was insufficient (31.3%; 25-OH-vit-D; 25-50 nmol/L) or deficient (35.5%; 25-OH-vit-D; <25 nmol/L). Repeated advice to increase vit-D intake at routine 6-monthly follow-up appointments was associated with increased 25-OH-vit-D from 37.8 ± 3.5 nmol/L at baseline to 60.4 ± 5.6 nmol/L (P < 0.0001) and 56.8 ± 7.0 nmol/L (P = 0.039) after 12 and 24 mo. Percentage of vit-D insufficiency decreased from 66.6% at baseline to 44.9% and 46.2% after 12 and 24 months, respectively. Previous abdominal surgery, but not treatment with somatostatin analogues predicted 25-OH-vit-D levels in bootstrapped linear regression analyses (P = 0.037). In summary, simple advice to increase vit-D intake using over-the-counter preparations was associated with significant improvement of vit-D deficiency/insufficiency, although, 15% of GEP-NET patients remained deficient and may benefit from additional measures of vit-D replacement.

Vitamin D supplementation does not improve human skeletal muscle contractile properties in insufficient young males.

PubMed

Owens, Daniel J; Webber, Daniel; Impey, Samuel G; Tang, Jonathan; Donovan, Timothy F; Fraser, William D; Morton, James P; Close, Graeme L

2014-06-01

Vitamin D may be a regulator of skeletal muscle function, although human trials investigating this hypothesis are limited to predominantly elderly populations. We aimed to assess the effect of oral vitamin D3 in healthy young males upon skeletal muscle function. Participants (n = 29) received an oral dose of 10,000 IU day(-1) vitamin D3 (VITD) or a visually identical placebo (PLB) for 3 months. Serum 25[OH]D and intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) were measured at baseline and at week 4, 8 and 12. Muscle function was assessed in n = 22 participants by isokinetic dynamometry and percutaneous isometric electromyostimulation at baseline and at week 6 and 12. Baseline mean total serum 25[OH]D was 40 ± 17 and 41 ± 20 nmol L(-1) for PLB and VITD, respectively. VITD showed a significant improvement in total 25[OH]D at week 4 (150 ± 31 nmol L(-1)) that remained elevated throughout the trial (P < 0.005). Contrastingly, PLB showed a significant decrease in 25[OH]D at week 12 (25 ± 15 nmol L(-1)) compared with baseline. Despite marked increases in total serum 25[OH]D in VITD and a decrease in PLB, there were no significant changes in any of the muscle function outcome measures at week 6 or 12 for either group (P > 0.05). Elevating total serum 25[OH]D to concentrations > 120 nmol L(-1) has no effect on skeletal muscle function. We postulate that skeletal muscle function is only perturbed in conditions of severe deficiency (<12.5 nmol L(-1)).

Rapid Response R&D for the Propulsion Directorate. Delivery Order 0019: Advanced Alternative Energy Technologies, Subtask: Life Cycle Greenhouse Gas Analysis of Advanced Jet Propulsion Fuels: Fischer-Tropsch Based SPK-1 Case Study

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-09-01

carry finished jet fuel from the CBTL facility. The pipeline connects the CBTL facility to a petroleum refinery located in Wood River, Illinois...Under Option 1, all the blended jet fuel is transported via pipeline from the refinery in Wood River to Chicago’s O’Hare airport. Under Option 2...shipping F-T jet fuel to a refinery in Wood River, Illinois (near St. Louis, Missouri) for blending and final transport of the blended jet fuel to

Rapid Response Research and Development (R&D) for the Aerospace Systems Directorate. Delivery Order 0021: Engineering Research and Technical Analyses of Advanced Airbreathing Propulsion Fuels, Subtask: Fit-for-Purpose (FFP) and Dynamic Seal Testing of Alternative Aviation Fuels

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-08-01

of alcohols with LanzaTech’s unique gas fermentation process for converting waste gas streams to ethanol. The alcohol conversion process begins with...grain/wood being converted to sugar followed by fermentation into a mixture of C2-C5 alcohols. These are then converted to a mixture of C4-C20...produce farnesene by fermentation of sugar feedstocks. Farnesene is then converted to farnesane through a combination of hydroprocessing and

PHARMACEUTICALS IN THE ENVIRONMENT: SOURCES ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

An issue that began to receive more attention by environmental scientists in the late 1990s was the conveyancy of pharmaceuticals in the environment by way of their use in human and veterinary medical practices and personal care The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, intervi

ION COMPOSITION ELUCIDATION (ICE) OF IONS FROM ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

There is no abstract available for this product. If further information is requested, please refer to the bibliographic citation and contact the person listed under Contact field. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for media, responding to public inquiries. S

PHARMACEUTICALS AND PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTS ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This presentation briefly summarizes some of what is known and not known about the occurrence of drugs in the environment, the potential for chronic effects on wildlife (and some instances of acute effects), the relevance of drug residues in drinking water to consumer risk perception, and actions that can be taken to reduce environmental exposure. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs.

PHARMACEUTICALS & PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTS AS ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Those chemical pollutants that are regulated under various international, federal, and state programs represent but a small fraction of the universe of chemicals that occur in the environment as a result of both natural processes and human influence. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-revi

US EPA, NERL-LAS VEGAS ACTIVITIES AND RESEARCH ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

There is no abstract available for this product. If further information is requested, please refer to the bibliographic citation and contact the person listed under Contact field. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for media, responding to public inquiries. S

Introduction to Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Those chemical pollutants that are regulated under various international, federal, and state programs represent but a small fraction of the universe of chemicals that occur in the environment as a result of both natural processes and human influence. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-revi

CHEMICAL MARKERS OF HUMAN WASTE ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Giving public water authorities a tool to monitor and measure levels of human waste contamination of waters simply and rapidly would enhance public protection. This methodology, using both urobilin and azithromycin (or any other human-use pharmaceutical) could be used to give public water authorities a rapid (24- hrs) and definitive method for measuring human waste contamination The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subco

PRESENTATION ON PPCPS IN THE ENVIRONMENT: AN ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

There is no abstract available for this product. If further information is requested, please refer to the bibliographic citation and contact the person listed under Contact Field. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for media, responding to public inquiries. S

PPCPS IN THE ENVIRONMENT: AN OVERVIEW OF THE ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

There is no abstract available for this product. If further information is requested, please refer to the bibliographic citation and contact the person listed under Contact Field. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for media, responding to public inquiries. S

PHARMACEUTICALS IN THE ENVIRONMENT: A ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This presentation briefly summarizes some of what is known, and not known about the occurrence of drugs in the environment, the potential for effects on wildlife, the relevance of drug residues in drinking water to consumer risk perception, and actions that can be taken to reduce environmental exposure. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited t

PRESENTED 04/05/2006: MERCURY MEASUREMENTS ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

While traditional methods for determining mercury in solid samples involve the use of aggressive chemicals to dissolve the matrix and the use of other chemicals to properly reduce the mercury to the volatile elemental form, pyrolysis-based analyzers can be used by directly weighing the solid in a sampling boat and initiating the instrumental analysis for total mercury. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee wo

FATE OF SYNTHETIC MUSK COMPOUNDS IN AN AQUATIC ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

To be presented is an overview of the chemistry, the monitoring methodology, and the statistical evaluation of concentrations obtained from the analysis of a suite of these compounds (e.g., Galaxolide®, musk xylene, and amino musk xylene) in different environmental compartments. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations,

TELEPHONIC PRESENTATION: MERCURY ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

While traditional methods for determining mercury in solid samples involve the use of aggressive chemicals to dissolve the matrix and the use of other chemicals to properly reduce the mercury to the volatile elemental form, pyrolysis-based analyzers can be used by directly weighing the solid in a sampling boat and initiating the instrumental analysis for total mercury. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee wo

LEVELS OF SYNTHETIC MUSK COMPOUNDS IN ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

To be presented is an overview of the chemistry, the monitoring methodology, and the statistical evaluation of concentrations obtained from the analysis of a suite of compounds (e.g., Galaxolide®, musk xylene, and amino musk xylene) in an aquatic ecological site. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles

PCCPS IN THE ENVIRONMENT: AN OVERVIEW OF THE ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

There is no abstract available for this product. If further information is requested, please refer to the bibliographic citation and contact the person listed under Contact Field. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for media, responding to public inquiries. S

PPCPS AS UBIQUITOUS POLLUTANTS FROM HEALTH AND ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

There is no abstract available for this product. If further information is requested, please refer to the bibliographic citation and contact the person listed under Contact field. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for media, responding to public inquiries. S

MEDICATION DISPOSAL AS A SOURCE FOR DRUGS AS ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

There is no abstract available for this product. If further information is requested, please refer to the bibliographic citation and contact the person listed under Contact Field. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for media, responding to public inquiries. S

PRESENTATION FOR THE PPCPS IN THE ENVIRONMENT ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

There is no abstract available for this product. If further information is requested, please refer to the bibliographic citation and contact the person listed under Contact Field. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subcommittee working group on PPCPs. Web site maintenance and expansion, invited technical presentations, invited articles for peer-reviewed journals, interviews for media, responding to public inquiries. S

CHEMICAL MARKERS OF HUMAN WASTE ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Giving public water authorities a tool to monitor and measure levels of human waste contamination of waters simply and rapidly would enhance public protection. This methodology, using both urobilin and azithromycin (or any other human-use pharmaceutical) could be used to give public water authorities a rapid (24- hrs) and definitive method for measuring human waste contamination. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG with USGS ends in FY05. APM 20 due in FY05.Subtask 2: Coordination of interagency research and public outreach activities for PPCPs. Participate on NSTC Health and Environment subc

Effect of Ultraviolet Light-Exposed Mushrooms on Vitamin D Status: Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry Reanalysis of Biobanked Sera from a Randomized Controlled Trial and a Systematic Review plus Meta-Analysis.

PubMed

Cashman, Kevin D; Kiely, Mairead; Seamans, Kelly M; Urbain, Paul

2016-03-01

Randomized controlled trial (RCT) data on the response of serum total 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] in healthy participants consuming UV light-exposed edible mushrooms are limited and mixed. The objective was to undertake a systematic review and meta-analysis of responses of serum 25(OH)D [and serum 25-hydroxyergocalciferol, 25(OH)D2, and serum 25-hydroxycholecalciferol, 25(OH)D3, if available] to consumption of UV-exposed mushrooms by healthy participants. Biobanked sera from one RCT (originally analyzed by immunoassay) were reanalyzed by LC-MS/MS to generate serum 25(OH)D2 and serum 25(OH)D3 data. Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane CENTRAL were searched for RCTs of UV-exposed mushrooms and data on serum 25(OH)D. Studies were screened for eligibility, and relevant data were extracted. Serum 25(OH)D data were re-analyzed by ANOVA and paired t tests. Our structured search yielded 6 RCTs meeting our inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis of all 6 RCTs showed serum 25(OH)D was not significantly increased (P = 0.12) by UV-exposed mushrooms, but there was high heterogeneity (I(2) = 87%). Including only the 3 European-based RCTs [mean baseline 25(OH)D, 38.6 nmol/L], serum 25(OH)D was increased significantly by UV-exposed mushrooms [weighted mean difference (WMD): 15.2 nmol/L; 95% CI: 1.5, 28.8 nmol/L, P = 0.03, I(2) = 88%], whereas there was no significant effect in the 3 US-based RCTs [P = 0.83; mean baseline 25(OH)D: 81.5 nmol/L]. Analysis of serum 25(OH)D2 and serum 25(OH)D3 (n = 5 RCTs) revealed a statistically significant increase (WMD: 20.6 nmol/L; 95% CI: 8.0, 33.3 nmol/L, P = 0.001, I(2 =) 99%) and decrease (WMD: -13.3 nmol/L; 95% CI: -15.8, -10.7 nmol/L, P < 0.00001, I(2) = 0%) after supplementation with UV-exposed mushrooms. Consumption of UV-exposed mushrooms may increase serum 25(OH)D when baseline vitamin D status is low via an increase in 25(OH)D2 (24.2 nmol/L) and despite a concomitant but relatively smaller reduction in 25(OH)D3 (-12.6 nmol/L). When baseline vitamin D status is high, the mean increase in 25(OH)D2 (18.3 nmol/L) and a relatively similar reduction in 25(OH)D3 (-13.6 nmol/L) may explain the lack of effect on serum 25(OH)D. © 2016 American Society for Nutrition.

Physical risk factors identification based on body sensor network combined to videotaping.

PubMed

Vignais, Nicolas; Bernard, Fabien; Touvenot, Gérard; Sagot, Jean-Claude

2017-11-01

The aim of this study was to perform an ergonomic analysis of a material handling task by combining a subtask video analysis and a RULA computation, implemented continuously through a motion capture system combining inertial sensors and electrogoniometers. Five workers participated to the experiment. Seven inertial measurement units, placed on the worker's upper body (pelvis, thorax, head, arms, forearms), were implemented through a biomechanical model of the upper body to continuously provide trunk, neck, shoulder and elbow joint angles. Wrist joint angles were derived from electrogoniometers synchronized with the inertial measurement system. Worker's activity was simultaneously recorded using video. During post-processing, joint angles were used as inputs to a computationally implemented ergonomic evaluation based on the RULA method. Consequently a RULA score was calculated at each time step to characterize the risk of exposure of the upper body (right and left sides). Local risk scores were also computed to identify the anatomical origin of the exposure. Moreover, the video-recorded work activity was time-studied in order to classify and quantify all subtasks involved into the task. Results showed that mean RULA scores were at high risk for all participants (6 and 6.2 for right and left sides respectively). A temporal analysis demonstrated that workers spent most part of the work time at a RULA score of 7 (right: 49.19 ± 35.27%; left: 55.5 ± 29.69%). Mean local scores revealed that most exposed joints during the task were elbows, lower arms, wrists and hands. Elbows and lower arms were indeed at a high level of risk during the total time of a work cycle (100% for right and left sides). Wrist and hands were also exposed to a risky level for much of the period of work (right: 82.13 ± 7.46%; left: 77.85 ± 12.46%). Concerning the subtask analysis, subtasks called 'snow thrower', 'opening the vacuum sealer', 'cleaning' and 'storing' have been identified as the most awkward for right and left sides given mean RULA scores and percentages of time spent at risky levels. Results analysis permitted to suggest ergonomic recommendations for the redesign of the workstation. Contributions of the proposed innovative system dedicated to physical ergonomic assessment are further discussed. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

33 CFR 165.9 - Geographic application of limited and controlled access areas and regulated navigation areas.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

..., including the territorial sea to a seaward limit of 12 nautical miles from the baseline. (c) Security zones..., including the territorial sea to a seaward limit of 12 nautical miles from the baseline. (d) Naval vessel..., including the territorial sea to a seaward limit of 12 nautical miles from the baseline. [USCG-2001-9044, 68...

Six and 12 Weeks of Caloric Restriction Increases β Cell Function and Lowers Fasting and Postprandial Glucose Concentrations in People with Type 2 Diabetes123

PubMed Central

Sathananthan, Matheni; Shah, Meera; Edens, Kim L; Grothe, Karen B; Piccinini, Francesca; Farrugia, Luca P; Micheletto, Francesco; Man, Chiara Dalla; Cobelli, Claudio; Rizza, Robert A; Camilleri, Michael; Vella, Adrian

2015-01-01

Background: Caloric restriction alone has been shown to improve insulin action and fasting glucose metabolism; however, the mechanism by which this occurs remains uncertain. Objective: We sought to quantify the effect of caloric restriction on β cell function and glucose metabolism in people with type 2 diabetes. Methods: Nine subjects (2 men, 7 women) with type 2 diabetes [BMI (in kg/m2): 40.6 ± 1.4; age: 58 ± 3 y; glycated hemoglobin: 6.9% ± 0.2%] were studied using a triple-tracer mixed meal after withdrawal of oral diabetes therapy. The oral minimal model was used to measure β cell function. Caloric restriction limited subjects to a pureed diet (<900 kcal/d) for the 12 wk of study. The studies were repeated after 6 and 12 wk of caloric restriction. Results: Fasting glucose concentrations decreased significantly from baseline after 6 wk of caloric restriction with no further reduction after a further 6 wk of caloric restriction (9.8 ± 1.3, 5.9 ± 0.2, and 6.2 ± 0.3 mmol/L at baseline and after 6 and 12 wk of caloric restriction, respectively; P = 0.01) because of decreased fasting endogenous glucose production (EGP: 20.4 ± 1.1, 16.2 ± 0.8, and 17.4 ± 1.1 μmol · kg−1 · min−1 at baseline and after 6 and 12 wk of caloric restriction, respectively; P = 0.03). These changes were accompanied by an improvement in β cell function measured by the disposition index (189 ± 51, 436 ± 68, and 449 ± 67 10−14 dL · kg−1 · min−2 · pmol−1 at baseline and after 6 and 12 wk of caloric restriction, respectively; P = 0.01). Conclusions: Six weeks of caloric restriction lowers fasting glucose and EGP with accompanying improvements in β cell function in people with type 2 diabetes. An additional 6 wk of caloric restriction maintained the improvement in glucose metabolism. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01094054. PMID:26246321

The effects of vitamin D supplementation on hepatic dysfunction, vitamin D status, and glycemic control in children and adolescents with vitamin D deficiency and either type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Nwosu, Benjamin Udoka; Maranda, Louise

2014-01-01

The effects of vitamin D supplementation on mild hepatic dysfunction and glycemic control are unclear in children and adolescents with either type 1 (T1D) or type 2 diabetes (T2D). Vitamin D supplementation will improve hepatic dysfunction and glycemic control. To determine the effect of vitamin D supplementation on alanine transaminase (ALT), hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentration. A retrospective study of 131 subjects with either T1D (n = 88 ∶ 46 females, 42 males), or T2D (n = 43 ∶ 26 females, 17 males) of ages 3-18 years between 2007-2013. All subjects had (1) a diagnosis of diabetes for > 12 mo, (2) received vitamin D supplementation for the management of vitamin D deficiency (3) had baseline and subsequent simultaneous measurements of HbA1c, ALT, and 25(OH)D. Vitamin D deficiency was defined as 25(OH)D concentration of < 50 nmol/L (20 ng/mL). At baseline, vitamin D deficiency occurred in 72.1% of patients with T2D and in 37.5% of T1D patients (p < 0.001). Patients with T2D had significantly higher values for BMI SDS (p < 0.001), alanine transaminase (ALT) (p = 0.001), but lower 25(OH)D p < 0.001), and no difference in HbA1c (p = 0.94), and total daily dose (TDD) of insulin per kg body weight (p = 0.48) as compared to T1D patients. After 3 months of vitamin D supplementation, there was a significant increase in 25(OH)D in both T2D (p = 0.015), and T1D patients (p < 0.001); significant reduction in BMI SDS (p = 0.015) and ALT (p = 0.012) in T2D, but not in T1D. There was a clinically-significant decrease in HbA1c in T2D from 8.5 ± 2.9% at baseline to 7.7 ± 2.5 at 3 mo, but not in T1D, 8.5 ± 1.2 to 8.53 ± 1.1%. Vitamin D supplementation in subjects with T2D was associated with statistically significant decreases in BMI SDS, ALT, and a clinically-significant decrease in HbA1c.

Prognostic implications of baseline anaemia and changes in haemoglobin concentrations with amphotericin B therapy for cryptococcal meningitis.

PubMed

Tugume, L; Morawski, B M; Abassi, M; Bahr, N C; Kiggundu, R; Nabeta, H W; Hullsiek, K H; Taseera, K; Musubire, A K; Schutz, C; Muzoora, C; Williams, D A; Rolfes, M A; Meintjes, G; Rhein, J; Meya, D B; Boulware, D R

2017-01-01

Anaemia represents a common toxicity with amphotericin B-based induction therapy in HIV-infected persons with cryptococcal meningitis. We sought to examine the impact of amphotericin-related anaemia on survival. We used data from Ugandan and South African trial participants to characterize the variation of haemoglobin concentrations from diagnosis to 12 weeks post-diagnosis. Anaemia severity was classified based on the haemoglobin concentration at cryptococcal meningitis diagnosis, and nadir haemoglobin values during amphotericin induction. Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate 2- and 10-week mortality risk. We also estimated 10-week mortality risk among participants with nadir haemoglobin < 8.5 g/dL during amphotericin induction and who survived ≥ 2 weeks post-enrolment. The median haemoglobin concentration at meningitis diagnosis was 11.5 g/dL [interquartile range (IQR) 9.7-13 g/dL; n = 311] with a mean decline of 4.2 g/dL [95% confidence interval (CI) -4.6 to -3.8; P < 0.001; n = 148] from diagnosis to nadir value among participants with baseline haemoglobin ≥ 8.5 g/dL. The median haemoglobin concentration was 8.1 g/dL (IQR 6.5-9.5 g/dL) at 2 weeks, increasing to 9.4 g/dL (IQR 8.2-10.9 g/dL) by 4 weeks and continuing to increase to 12 weeks. Among participants with haemoglobin < 8.5 g/dL at diagnosis, mortality risk was elevated at 2 weeks [hazard ratio (HR) 2.7; 95% CI 1.5-4.9; P < 0.01] and 10 weeks (HR 1.8; 95% CI 1.1-2.2; P = 0.03), relative to those with haemoglobin ≥ 8.5 g/dL. New-onset anaemia occurring with amphotericin therapy did not have a statistically significant association with 10-week mortality (HR 2.0; 95% CI 0.5-9.1; P = 0.4). Amphotericin induced significant haemoglobin declines, which were mostly transient and did not impact 10-week mortality. Individuals with moderate to life-threatening anaemia at baseline had a higher mortality risk at 2 and 10 weeks post-enrolment. © 2016 British HIV Association.

Studies of Coronae and Large Volcanoes on Venus: Constraining the Diverse Outcomes of Small-Scale Mantle Upwellings on Venus

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stofan, Ellen R.

2005-01-01

Proxemy Research had a grant from NASA to perform science research on upwelling and volcanism on Venus. This was a 3 year Planetary Geology and Geophysics grant to E. Stofan, entitled Coronae and Large volcanoes on Venus. This grant closes on 12/31/05. Here we summarize the scientific progress and accomplishments of this grant. Scientific publications and abstracts of presentations are indicated in the final section. This was a very productive grant and the progress that was made is summarized. Attention is drawn to the publications and abstracts published in each year. The proposal consisted of two tasks, one examining coronae and one studying large volcanoes. The corona task (Task 1) consisted of three parts: 1) a statistical study of the updated corona population, with Sue Smrekar, Lori Glaze, Paula Martin and Steve Baloga; 2) geologic analysis of several specific groups of coronae, with Sue Smrekar and others; and 3) determining the histories and significance of a number of coronae with extreme amounts of volcanism, with Sue Smrekar. Task 2, studies of large volcanoes, consisted of two subtasks. In the first, we studied the geologic history of several volcanoes, with John Guest, Peter Grindrod, Antony Brian and Steve Anderson. In the second subtask, I analyzed a number of Venusian volcanoes with evidence of summit diking along with Peter Grindrod and Francis Nimmo.

300,000 IU or 600,000 IU of oral vitamin D3 for treatment of nutritional rickets: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Mittal, Hema; Rai, Sunita; Shah, Dheeraj; Madhu, S V; Mehrotra, Gopesh; Malhotra, Rajeev Kumar; Gupta, Piyush

2014-04-01

To evaluate the non-inferiority of a lower therapeutic dose (300,000 IU) in comparison to standard dose (600,000) IU of Vitamin D for increasing serum 25(OH) D levels and achieving radiological recovery in nutritional rickets. Randomized, open-labeled, controlled trial. Tertiary care hospital. 76 children (median age 12 mo) with clinical and radiologically confirmed rickets. Oral vitamin D3 as 300,000 IU (Group 1; n=38) or 600,000 IU (Group 2; n=38) in a single day. Primary: Serum 25(OH)D, 12 weeks after administration of vitamin D3; Secondary: Radiological healing and serum parathormone at 12 weeks; and clinical and biochemical adverse effects. Serum 25(OH)D levels [geometric mean (95% CI)] increased significantly from baseline to 12 weeks after therapy in both the groups [Group 1: 7.58 (5.50–10.44) to 16.06 (12.71– 20.29) ng/mL, P<0.001]; Group 2: 6.57 (4.66–9.25) to 17.60 (13.71–22.60, P<0.001]. The adjusted ratio of geometric mean serum 25(OH)D levels at 12 weeks between the groups (taking baseline value as co-variate) was 0.91 (95% CI: 0.65–1.29). Radiological healing occurred in all children by 12 weeks. Both groups demonstrated significant (P<0.05) and comparable fall in the serum parathormone and alkaline phosphatase levels at 12 weeks. Relative change [ratio of geometric mean (95% CI)] in serum PTH and alkaline phosphatase, 12 weeks after therapy, were 0.98 (0.7–1.47) and 0.92 (0.72–1.19), respectively. The serum 25(OH)D levels were deficient (<20 ng/mL) in 63% (38/60) children after 12 weeks of intervention [Group 1: 20/32 (62.5%); Group 2: 18/28 (64.3%)]. No major clinical adverse effects were noticed in any of the children. Hypercalcemia was documented in 2 children at 4 weeks (1 in each Group) and 3 children at 12 weeks (1 in Group 1 and 2 in Group 2). None of the participants had hypercalciuria or hypervitaminosis D. A dose of 300,000 IU of vitamin D3 is comparable to 600,000 IU, administered orally, over a single day, for treating rickets in under-five children although there is an unacceptably high risk of hypercalcemia in both groups. None of the regime is effective in normalization of vitamin D status in majority of patients, 3 months after administering the therapeutic dose.

Monovision techniques for telerobots

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goode, P. W.; Carnils, K.

1987-01-01

The primary task of the vision sensor in a telerobotic system is to provide information about the position of the system's effector relative to objects of interest in its environment. The subtasks required to perform the primary task include image segmentation, object recognition, and object location and orientation in some coordinate system. The accomplishment of the vision task requires the appropriate processing tools and the system methodology to effectively apply the tools to the subtasks. The functional structure of the telerobotic vision system used in the Langley Research Center's Intelligent Systems Research Laboratory is discussed as well as two monovision techniques for accomplishing the vision subtasks.

Baseline Psychosocial Characteristics Predict Frequency of Continuous Glucose Monitoring in Youth with Type 1 Diabetes.

PubMed

McGill, Dayna E; Volkening, Lisa K; Butler, Deborah A; Harrington, Kara R; Katz, Michelle L; Laffel, Lori M

2018-05-04

Consistent use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) has been associated with improved glycemic control in youth with type 1 diabetes (T1D). There are many barriers to device uptake and continued use. There is a need to understand patient-specific characteristics when considering CGM. We evaluated patterns of CGM use and associations between baseline psychosocial measures and frequency of CGM use over 1 year. Youth with T1D (n = 120), ages 8-18 years, completed questionnaires at CGM initiation and after 6 and 12 months assessing depressive symptoms, diabetes burden, and diabetes-specific and generic quality of life (QOL). Youth (51% male and 95% white) had mean age 12.7 ± 2.7 years, diabetes duration 6.1 ± 3.6 years, and glycated hemoglobin (HbA 1c ) 8.0 ± 0.8%. Over 1 year, 35% of youth used CGM 6 to 7 days per week, 45% used CGM 3-5 days per week, and 20% used CGM only 0-2 days per week. Youth who used CGM 3-7 days per week over 12 months had lower HbA 1c at months 9 and 12 than youth who used CGM 0-2 days per week (9 months: 7.9 ± 0.9% vs. 8.5 ± 1.1%, P = 0.006 and 12 months: 8.0 ± 0.9% vs. 8.5 ± 1.1%, P = 0.02). Those using CGM 0-2 days per week had greater endorsement of depressive symptoms and diabetes burden and reported lower QOL at baseline compared with those using CGM 3-7 days per week. CGM use for 3 or more days per week over 12 months had a protective effect on HbA 1c . Providers should consider addressing psychosocial parameters when initiating CGM to maximize uptake and promote continued use in youth with T1D.

C-Band Airport Surface Communications System Standards Development. Phase II Final Report. Volume 1: Concepts of Use, Initial System Requirements, Architecture, and AeroMACS Design Considerations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hall, Edward; Isaacs, James; Henriksen, Steve; Zelkin, Natalie

2011-01-01

This report is provided as part of ITT s NASA Glenn Research Center Aerospace Communication Systems Technical Support (ACSTS) contract NNC05CA85C, Task 7: New ATM Requirements-Future Communications, C-Band and L-Band Communications Standard Development and was based on direction provided by FAA project-level agreements for New ATM Requirements-Future Communications. Task 7 included two subtasks. Subtask 7-1 addressed C-band (5091- to 5150-MHz) airport surface data communications standards development, systems engineering, test bed and prototype development, and tests and demonstrations to establish operational capability for the Aeronautical Mobile Airport Communications System (AeroMACS). Subtask 7-2 focused on systems engineering and development support of the L-band digital aeronautical communications system (L-DACS). Subtask 7-1 consisted of two phases. Phase I included development of AeroMACS concepts of use, requirements, architecture, and initial high-level safety risk assessment. Phase II builds on Phase I results and is presented in two volumes. Volume I (this document) is devoted to concepts of use, system requirements, and architecture, including AeroMACS design considerations. Volume II describes an AeroMACS prototype evaluation and presents final AeroMACS recommendations. This report also describes airport categorization and channelization methodologies. The purposes of the airport categorization task were (1) to facilitate initial AeroMACS architecture designs and enable budgetary projections by creating a set of airport categories based on common airport characteristics and design objectives, and (2) to offer high-level guidance to potential AeroMACS technology and policy development sponsors and service providers. A channelization plan methodology was developed because a common global methodology is needed to assure seamless interoperability among diverse AeroMACS services potentially supplied by multiple service providers.

Vitamin D3 decreases parathyroid hormone in HIV-infected youth being treated with tenofovir: a randomized, placebo-controlled trial.

PubMed

Havens, Peter L; Stephensen, Charles B; Hazra, Rohan; Flynn, Patricia M; Wilson, Craig M; Rutledge, Brandy; Bethel, James; Pan, Cynthia G; Woodhouse, Leslie R; Van Loan, Marta D; Liu, Nancy; Lujan-Zilbermann, Jorge; Baker, Alyne; Kapogiannis, Bill G; Mulligan, Kathleen

2012-04-01

The study goal was to determine the effect of vitamin D (VITD) supplementation on tubular reabsorption of phosphate (TRP), parathyroid hormone (PTH), bone alkaline phosphatase (BAP), and C-telopeptide (CTX) in youth infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) receiving and not receiving combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) containing tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF). This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled multicenter trial enrolled HIV-infected youth 18-25 years based on stable treatment with cART containing TDF (n = 118) or no TDF (noTDF; n = 85), and randomized within those groups to vitamin D3, 50 000 IU (n = 102) or placebo (n = 101), administered at 0, 4, and 8 weeks. Outcomes included change in TRP, PTH, BAP, and CTX from baseline to week 12 by TDF/noTDF; and VITD/placebo. At baseline, VITD and placebo groups were similar except those on TDF had lower TRP and higher PTH and CTX. At week 12, 95% in the VITD group had sufficient serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25-OHD; ≥20 ng/mL), increased from 48% at baseline, without change in placebo (P < .001). PTH decreased in the TDF group receiving VITD (P = .031) but not in the noTDF group receiving VITD, or either placebo group. The decrease in PTH with VITD in those on TDF occurred with insufficient and sufficient baseline 25-OHD (mean PTH change, -7.9 and -6.2 pg/mL; P = .031 and .053, respectively). In youth on TDF, vitamin D3 supplementation decreased PTH, regardless of baseline 25-OHD concentration. NCT00490412.

Low-Protein Diet Supplemented with Keto Acids Is Associated with Suppression of Small-Solute Peritoneal Transport Rate in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients

PubMed Central

Jiang, Na; Qian, Jiaqi; Lin, Aiwu; Fang, Wei; Zhang, Weiming; Cao, Liou; Wang, Qin; Ni, Zhaohui; Yao, Qiang

2011-01-01

Objective. We investigate whether low-protein diet would show benefits in suppressing peritoneal transport rate in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. Methods. This is a supplemented analysis of our previously published trial, which randomized 60 PD patients to receive low- (LP: dietary protein intake of 0.6–0.8 g/kg/d), keto-acid-supplemented low- (sLP: 0.6–0.8 g/kg/d with 0.12 g/kg/d of keto acids), or high- (HP: 1.0–1.2 g/kg/d) protein diet and lasted for one year. In this study, the variations of peritoneal transport rate were assessed. Results. While baseline D/Pcr (dialysate-to-plasma concentration ratio for creatinine at 4 hour) and D/D0glu (dialysate glucose at 4 hour to baseline dialysate glucose concentration ratio) were similar, D/Pcr in group sLP was lower, and D/D0glu was higher than those in the other two groups (P < 0.05) at 12th month. D/D0glu increased (P < 0.05), and D/Pcr tended to decrease, (P = 0.071) in group sLP. Conclusions. Low-protein diet with keto acids may benefit PD patients by maintaining peritoneum at a lower transport rate. PMID:21747999

Effect of vitamin D replacement on indexes of insulin resistance in overweight elderly individuals: a randomized controlled trial12

PubMed Central

Baddoura, Rafic; Habib, Robert H; Halaby, Georges; Arabi, Asma; Rahme, Maya; Singh, Ravinder J; Kassem, Moustapha; Mahfoud, Ziyad; Hoteit, Maha; Daher, Rose T; Kassir, Mohamed-Faisal

2016-01-01

Background: It is unclear whether and at what dose vitamin D supplementation affects insulin resistance (IR). Objective: We sought to investigate whether vitamin D at doses higher than currently recommended decreases indexes of IR in an ambulatory population of overweight elderly subjects. Design: This double-blind, randomized, controlled multicenter trial enrolled 257 elderly overweight individuals aged ≥65 y with baseline 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations between 10 and 30 ng/mL. All subjects received 1000 mg calcium citrate/d, with vitamin D administered weekly at an equivalent dose of 600 or 3750 IU/d. The homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) of IR index at 1 y was the primary outcome. We also assessed the McAuley index. Results: In total, 222 subjects (55% women) with a mean ± SD age and body mass index (BMI; in kg/m2) of 71 ± 4 y and 30 ± 4, respectively, completed the study. Subjects’ baseline characteristics, including IR indexes, were similar across groups: 69% had prediabetes, 54% had hypertension (47% were taking antihypertensive medications), and 60% had hyperlipidemia, nearly half of whom were receiving lipid-lowering drugs. At 1 y, mean ± SD serum 25(OH)D increased from 20 ± 7 to 26 ± 7 ng/mL in the low-dose arm (P < 0.0001) and from 21 ± 8 to 36 ± 10 ng/mL in the high-dose arm (P < 0.001). Median HOMA-IR indexes did not change compared with baseline concentrations and were similar in the high- [2.2 (IQR: 1.5, 2.9)] and low-dose [2.3 (IQR: 1.6, 3.3] treatment groups. Adjusted analyses showed that HOMA-IR was predicted by the baseline HOMA index and BMI but not by vitamin D dose, baseline serum 25(OH)D, or change in 25(OH)D. Conclusion: Vitamin D3 at 3750 IU/d did not improve HOMA-IR compared with the Institute of Medicine Recommended Dietary Allowance of 600 IU/d in elderly overweight individuals. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01315366. PMID:27413130

Baseline Muscle Mass Is a Poor Predictor of Functional Overload-Induced Gain in the Mouse Model

PubMed Central

Kilikevicius, Audrius; Bunger, Lutz; Lionikas, Arimantas

2016-01-01

Genetic background contributes substantially to individual variability in muscle mass. Muscle hypertrophy in response to resistance training can also vary extensively. However, it is less clear if muscle mass at baseline is predictive of the hypertrophic response. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of genetic background on variability in muscle mass at baseline and in the adaptive response of the mouse fast- and slow-twitch muscles to overload. Males of eight laboratory mouse strains: C57BL/6J (B6, n = 17), BALB/cByJ (n = 7), DBA/2J (D2, n = 12), B6.A-(rs3676616-D10Utsw1)/Kjn (B6.A, n = 9), C57BL/6J-Chr10A/J/NaJ (B6.A10, n = 8), BEH+/+ (n = 11), BEH (n = 12), and DUHi (n = 12), were studied. Compensatory growth of soleus and plantaris muscles was triggered by a 4-week overload induced by synergist unilateral ablation. Muscle weight in the control leg (baseline) varied from 5.2 ± 07 mg soleus and 11.4 ± 1.3 mg plantaris in D2 mice to 18.0 ± 1.7 mg soleus in DUHi and 43.7 ± 2.6 mg plantaris in BEH (p < 0.001 for both muscles). In addition, soleus in the B6.A10 strain was ~40% larger (p < 0.001) compared to the B6. Functional overload increased muscle weight, however, the extent of gain was strain-dependent for both soleus (p < 0.01) and plantaris (p < 0.02) even after accounting for the baseline differences. For the soleus muscle, the BEH strain emerged as the least responsive, with a 1.3-fold increase, compared to a 1.7-fold gain in the most responsive D2 strain, and there was no difference in the gain between the B6.A10 and B6 strains. The BEH strain appeared the least responsive in the gain of plantaris as well, 1.3-fold, compared to ~1.5-fold gain in the remaining strains. We conclude that variation in muscle mass at baseline is not a reliable predictor of that in the overload-induced gain. This suggests that a different set of genes influence variability in muscle mass acquired in the process of normal development, growth, and maintenance, and in the process of adaptive growth of the muscle challenged by overload. PMID:27895593

Assessing of imagined and real expanded Timed Up and Go tests in patients with chronic stroke: A case-control study.

PubMed

Geiger, Maxime; Bonnyaud, Céline; Bussel, Bernard; Roche, Nicolas

2018-05-08

To assess temporal congruence (the difference in performance-time and time to imagine) between the sub-tasks of the Expanded Timed Up and Go (ETUG) and imagined ETUG (iETUG) tests in patients with hemiparesis following unilateral hemispheric stroke, and to compare the results with those for with healthy subjects. Case-controlled study. Subject/patients: Twenty patients with chronic stroke and 20 healthy subjects. TUG, ETUG and iETUG test performance times were recorded for all participants. Temporal congruence was calculated with the following formula: (ETUG-iETUG)/[(ETUG+iETUG)/2]*100. Patients' performances were slower than those of healthy subjects for all 5 sub-tasks of the TUG, ETUG and iETUG tests. However, there was no significant difference in temporal congruence between healthy subjects and patients. Intragroup analysis showed significant differences between the executed and the imagined conditions for both groups for the "walking", "turn around" and "sitting" phases (healthy subjects p = 0.01, p = 0.03, p = 0.03, and patients p = 0.01, p = 0.003, p = 0.003, respectively). Temporal congruence was similar for healthy subjects and patients for all sub-tasks of the ETUG test. Moreover, temporal congruence was reduced for the same sub-tasks of the ETUG test in patients and healthy subjects. This suggests that the motor imagery involved the same cerebral structures in both groups, probably including the cerebellum, since it was intact in all patients.

Psychological morbidity and facial volume in HIV lipodystrophy: quantification of treatment outcome.

PubMed

Nelson, Lisa; Stewart, Kenneth J

2012-04-01

HIV lipoatrophy is a stigmatizing condition associated with significant psychological morbidity. The aim of this study was to evaluate change in facial volume and psychological morbidity following treatment with autologous fat, Sculptra and Bio-alcamid. HIV LD patients were treated based on a clinical assessment in a prospective, observational study. 3-D images were obtained pre-operatively then at 2, 6 and 12 months post-operatively using the DI3D system. Volume changes were measured using DI3D software. The DAS-24 and HADS were used to assess psychological morbidity at similar time intervals. Forty-eight patients with HIV LD were treated: 16 patients had Bio-alcamid, 20 patients received Sculptra and 12 patients underwent fat transfer. The mean injected volume of Bio-alcamid was 25.5 cc which was comparable to the measured volume change at follow-up. The mean injected volume of fat was 20.1 cc, which did not differ from the measured volumes at 2 months. There was a mean reduction in measured volume change to11.2 cc at 6 months and 10 cc at 12 months. For Sculptra, the mean volume change compared to baseline was 8.7 cc at 2 months, increasing to 12.6 cc at 6 months and 12.3 cc at 12 months. ANOVA tests demonstrated no difference in psychological outcomes between groups. There was a significant improvement in DAS-24 scores compared to baseline for all 3 groups. No correlation between change in facial volume and psychological measures was demonstrated. Change in 3-D measured facial volume for all 3 groups was seen. Treatment was associated with improved body image perception. Copyright © 2011 British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Adopting a plant-based diet minimally increased food costs in WHEL Study.

PubMed

Hyder, Joseph A; Thomson, Cynthia A; Natarajan, Loki; Madlensky, Lisa; Pu, Minya; Emond, Jennifer; Kealey, Sheila; Rock, Cheryl L; Flatt, Shirley W; Pierce, John P

2009-01-01

To assess the cost of adopting a plant-based diet. Breast cancer survivors randomized to dietary intervention (n=1109) or comparison (n=1145) group; baseline and 12-month data on diet and grocery costs. At baseline, both groups reported similar food costs and dietary intake. At 12 months, only the intervention group changed their diet (vegetable-fruit: 6.3 to 8.9 serv/d.; fiber: 21.6 to 29.8 g/d; fat: 28.2 to 22.3% of E). The intervention change was associated with a significant increase of $1.22/ person/week (multivariate model, P=0.027). A major change to a plant-based diet was associated with a minimal increase in grocery costs.

Modulation of risk/reward decision making by dopaminergic transmission within the basolateral amygdala.

PubMed

Larkin, Joshua D; Jenni, Nicole L; Floresco, Stan B

2016-01-01

Dopamine (DA) transmission within cortico-limbic-striatal circuitry is integral in modulating decisions involving reward uncertainty. The basolateral amygdala (BLA) also plays a role in these processes, yet how DA transmission within this nucleus regulates cost/benefit decision making is unknown. We investigated the contribution of DA transmission within the BLA to risk/reward decision making assessed with a probabilistic discounting task. Rats were well-trained to choose between a small/certain reward and a large/risky reward, with the probability of obtaining the larger reward decreasing (100-12.5 %) or increasing (12.5-100 %) over a session. We examined the effects of antagonizing BLA D1 (SCH 23390, 0.1-1 μg) or D2 (eticlopride, 0.1-1 μg) receptors, as well as intra-BLA infusions of agonists for D1 (SKF 81297, 0.1-1 μg) and D2 (quinpirole, 1-10 μg) receptors. We also assessed how DA receptor stimulation may induce differential effects related to baseline levels of risky choice. BLA D1 receptor antagonism reduced risky choice by decreasing reward sensitivity, whereas D2 antagonism did not affect overall choice patterns. Stimulation of BLA D1 receptors optimized decision making in a baseline-dependent manner: in risk-averse rats, infusions of a lower dose of SKF81297 increased risky choice when reward probabilities were high (50 %), whereas in risk-prone rats, this drug reduced risky choice when probabilities were low (12.5 %). Quinpirole reduced risky choice in risk-prone rats, enhancing lose-shift behavior. These data highlight previously uncharacterized roles for BLA DA D1 and D2 receptors in biasing choice during risk/reward decision making through mediation of reward/negative feedback sensitivity.

The risk of a safety-critical event associated with mobile device use in specific driving contexts.

PubMed

Fitch, Gregory M; Hanowski, Richard J; Guo, Feng

2015-01-01

We explored drivers' mobile device use and its associated risk of a safety-critical event (SCE) in specific driving contexts. Our premise was that the SCE risk associated with mobile device use increases when the driving task becomes demanding. Data from naturalistic driving studies involving commercial motor vehicle drivers and light vehicle drivers were partitioned into subsets representative of specific driving contexts. The subsets were generated using data set attributes that included level of service and relation to junction. These attributes were selected based on exogenous factors known to alter driving task demands. The subsets were analyzed using a case-cohort approach, which was selected to complement previous investigations of mobile device SCE risk using naturalistic driving data. Both commercial motor vehicle and light vehicle drivers varied as to how much they conversed on a mobile device but did not vary their engagement in visual-manual subtasks. Furthermore, commercial motor vehicle drivers conversed less frequently as the driving task demands increased, whereas light vehicle drivers did not. The risk of an SCE associated with mobile device use was dependent on the subtask performed and the driving context. Only visual-manual subtasks were associated with an increased SCE risk, whereas conversing was associated with a decreased risk in some driving contexts. Drivers' engagement in mobile device subtasks varies by driving context. The SCE risk associated with mobile device use is dependent on the types of subtasks performed and the driving context. The findings of this exploratory study can be applied to the design of driver-vehicle interfaces that mitigate distraction by preventing visual-manual subtasks while driving.

Transcranial direct current stimulation facilitates cognitive multi-task performance differentially depending on anode location and subtask

PubMed Central

Scheldrup, Melissa; Greenwood, Pamela M.; McKendrick, Ryan; Strohl, Jon; Bikson, Marom; Alam, Mahtab; McKinley, R. Andy; Parasuraman, Raja

2014-01-01

There is a need to facilitate acquisition of real world cognitive multi-tasks that require long periods of training (e.g., air traffic control, intelligence analysis, medicine). Non-invasive brain stimulation—specifically transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS)—has promise as a method to speed multi-task training. We hypothesized that during acquisition of the complex multi-task Space Fortress, subtasks that require focused attention on ship control would benefit from tDCS aimed at the dorsal attention network while subtasks that require redirection of attention would benefit from tDCS aimed at the right hemisphere ventral attention network. We compared effects of 30 min prefrontal and parietal stimulation to right and left hemispheres on subtask performance during the first 45 min of training. The strongest effects both overall and for ship flying (control and velocity subtasks) were seen with a right parietal (C4, reference to left shoulder) montage, shown by modeling to induce an electric field that includes nodes in both dorsal and ventral attention networks. This is consistent with the re-orienting hypothesis that the ventral attention network is activated along with the dorsal attention network if a new, task-relevant event occurs while visuospatial attention is focused (Corbetta et al., 2008). No effects were seen with anodes over sites that stimulated only dorsal (C3) or only ventral (F10) attention networks. The speed subtask (update memory for symbols) benefited from an F9 anode over left prefrontal cortex. These results argue for development of tDCS as a training aid in real world settings where multi-tasking is critical. PMID:25249958

Transcranial direct current stimulation facilitates cognitive multi-task performance differentially depending on anode location and subtask.

PubMed

Scheldrup, Melissa; Greenwood, Pamela M; McKendrick, Ryan; Strohl, Jon; Bikson, Marom; Alam, Mahtab; McKinley, R Andy; Parasuraman, Raja

2014-01-01

There is a need to facilitate acquisition of real world cognitive multi-tasks that require long periods of training (e.g., air traffic control, intelligence analysis, medicine). Non-invasive brain stimulation-specifically transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS)-has promise as a method to speed multi-task training. We hypothesized that during acquisition of the complex multi-task Space Fortress, subtasks that require focused attention on ship control would benefit from tDCS aimed at the dorsal attention network while subtasks that require redirection of attention would benefit from tDCS aimed at the right hemisphere ventral attention network. We compared effects of 30 min prefrontal and parietal stimulation to right and left hemispheres on subtask performance during the first 45 min of training. The strongest effects both overall and for ship flying (control and velocity subtasks) were seen with a right parietal (C4, reference to left shoulder) montage, shown by modeling to induce an electric field that includes nodes in both dorsal and ventral attention networks. This is consistent with the re-orienting hypothesis that the ventral attention network is activated along with the dorsal attention network if a new, task-relevant event occurs while visuospatial attention is focused (Corbetta et al., 2008). No effects were seen with anodes over sites that stimulated only dorsal (C3) or only ventral (F10) attention networks. The speed subtask (update memory for symbols) benefited from an F9 anode over left prefrontal cortex. These results argue for development of tDCS as a training aid in real world settings where multi-tasking is critical.

ADDRESSING EMERGING ISSUES IN WATER QUALITY ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Public concern over cleanliness and safety of source and recreational waters has prompted researchers to look for indicators of water quality. Giving public water authorities multiple tools to measure and monitor levels of chemical contaminants, as well as chemical markers of contamination, simply and rapidly would enhance public protection. The goals of water quality are outlined in the Water Quality Multi-year Plan [http://intranet.epa.gov/ospintra/Planning/wq.pdf] and the research in this task falls under GPRA Goal 2, 2.3.2, Long Term Goals 1, 2, and 4. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each project's objective is stated below.Subtask 1: To integrate state-of-the-art technologies (polar organic chemical integrative samplers, advanced solid-phase extraction methodologies with liquid chromatography/electrospray/mass spectrometry) and apply them to studying the sources and fate of a select list of PPCPs. Application and improvement of analytical methodologies that can detect non-volatile, polar, water-soluble pharmaceuticals in source waters at levels that could be environmentally significant (at concentrations less than parts per billion, ppb). IAG

Visual outcomes after spectacles treatment in children with bilateral high refractive amblyopia.

PubMed

Lin, Pei-Wen; Chang, Hsueh-Wen; Lai, Ing-Chou; Teng, Mei-Ching

2016-11-01

The aim was to investigate the visual outcomes of treatment with spectacles for bilateral high refractive amblyopia in children three to eight years of age. Children with previously untreated bilateral refractive amblyopia were enrolled. Bilateral high refractive amblyopia was defined as visual acuity (VA) being worse than 6/9 in both eyes in the presence of 5.00 D or more of hyperopia, 5.00 D or more of myopia and 2.00 D or more of astigmatism. Full myopic and astigmatic refractive errors were corrected, and the hyperopic refractive errors were corrected within 1.00 D of the full correction. All children received visual assessments at four-weekly intervals. VA, Worth four-dot test and Randot preschool stereotest were assessed at baseline and every four weeks for two years. Twenty-eight children with previously untreated bilateral high refractive amblyopia were enrolled. The mean VA at baseline was 0.39 ± 0.24 logMAR and it significantly improved to 0.21, 0.14, 0.11, 0.05 and 0.0 logMAR at four, eight, 12, 24 weeks and 18 months, respectively (all p = 0.001). The mean stereoacuity (SA) was 1,143 ± 617 arcsec at baseline and it significantly improved to 701, 532, 429, 211 and 98 arcsec at four, eight, 12, 24 weeks and 18 months, respectively (all p = 0.001). The time interval for VA achieving 6/6 was significantly shorter in the eyes of low spherical equivalent (SE) (-2.00 D < SE < +2.00 D) than in those of high SE (SE > +2.00 D) (3.33 ± 2.75 months versus 8.11 ± 4.56 months, p = 0.0005). All subjects had normal fusion on Worth four-dot test at baseline and all follow-up visits. Refractive correction with good spectacles compliance improves VA and SA in young children with bilateral high refractive amblyopia. Patients with greater amounts of refractive error will achieve resolution of amblyopia with a longer time. © 2016 Optometry Australia.

Earth resources data analysis program, phase 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1974-01-01

The efforts and findings of the Earth Resources Data Analysis Program are summarized. Results of a detailed study of the needs of EOD with respect to an applications development system (ADS) for the analysis of remotely sensed data, including an evaluation of four existing systems with respect to these needs are described. Recommendations as to possible courses for EOD to follow to obtain a viable ADS are presented. Algorithmic development comprised of several subtasks is discussed. These subtasks include the following: (1) two algorithms for multivariate density estimation; (2) a data smoothing algorithm; (3) a method for optimally estimating prior probabilities of unclassified data; and (4) further applications of the modified Cholesky decomposition in various calculations. Little effort was expended on task 3, however, two reports were reviewed.

Association Between Circulating Baseline Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin Kexin Type 9 Levels and Efficacy of Evolocumab.

PubMed

Desai, Nihar R; Giugliano, Robert P; Wasserman, Scott M; Gibbs, John P; Liu, Thomas; Scott, Rob; Sabatine, Marc S

2017-05-01

Levels of proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin type 9 (PCSK9) vary markedly across the population and are influenced by genetic and nongenetic factors. Evolocumab is a fully human, monoclonal antibody against PCSK9 that reduces low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels by 55% to 75%. Whether the efficacy of evolocumab varies based on an individual's baseline PCSK9 level remains unknown. To characterize variability in PCSK9 levels and determine whether the LDL-C level reduction achieved with evolocumab differs based on PCSK9 levels. This study included pooled data from 3016 patients from 4 phase 3 randomized clinical trials of evolocumab as part of the Program to Reduce LDL-C and Cardiovascular Outcomes Following Inhibition of PCSK9 in Different Populations. Circulating PCSK9 levels were measured at baseline using quantitative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays and used to stratify patients into quartiles, and LDL-C level was measured at baseline and weeks 10 and 12. In an additional 138 patients enrolled in a pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic substudy from 4 phase 2 trials, circulating PCSK9 levels were measured at baseline and then weekly at weeks 8 through 12. Placebo-controlled percentage change in LDL-C level with evolocumab, 140 mg every 2 weeks and 420 mg once monthly, across quartiles of baseline PCSK9 levels. Of the 3016 patients, 1492 (49.5%) were female and 2758 (91.4%) were white. The median baseline circulating PCSK9 level was 323 ng/mL (interquartile range, 258-406 ng/mL). Patients with higher levels of PCSK9 were more likely to be receiving intensive statin therapy (56%, 36%, 25%, and 13% in the fourth through first quartiles; P < .001) and had significantly lower baseline LDL-C level (123 mg/dL, 124 mg/dL, 128 mg/dL, and 137 mg/dL in the fourth through first quartiles; P < .001). After stratifying by statin use, there was no correlation between PCSK9 levels and LDL-C levels (ρ = 0.03 [95% CI, -0.04 to 0.10] for nonstatin users, P = .39, and ρ = 0.03 [95% CI, -0.01 to 0.08] for statin users, P = .12). Across all quartiles of baseline PCSK9 levels, both evolocumab 140 mg every 2 weeks and 420 mg once monthly suppressed circulating PCSK9 levels by 90% to 100% within 1 week of administration. Both evolocumab 140 mg every 2 weeks and 420 mg once monthly were associated with significant reductions in LDL-C levels between 64% and 71% (P < .001), regardless of PCSK9 levels (P for interaction = .76 and .21, respectively). Regardless of baseline PCSK9 levels, the doses of evolocumab being studied in a large cardiovascular outcomes trial suppress PCSK9 levels and consistently and substantially reduce LDL-C levels.

12-month color stability of enamel, dentine, and enamel-dentine samples after bleaching.

PubMed

Wiegand, Annette; Drebenstedt, Steffi; Roos, Malgorzata; Magalhães, Ana Carolina; Attin, Thomas

2008-12-01

The study aimed to quantify the color regression of enamel (E), dentine (D), and combined enamel-dentine (ED) of differently bleached ED specimens over a period of 12 months in vitro. Two ED samples were obtained from the labial surfaces of bovine teeth and prepared to a standardized thickness with the enamel and dentine layer each 1 mm. The ED samples were distributed on four groups (each n = 80), in which the different bleaching products were applied on enamel (1, Whitestrips; 2, Illuminé 15%; 3, Opalescence Xtra Boost) or dentine surfaces (4, mixture of sodium perborate/distilled water). Eighty ED samples were not bleached (control). Color (L*a*b*) of ED was assessed at baseline, subsequently after bleaching and at 3, 6, and 12 months of storage after bleaching (each 20 samples/group). E and D samples were prepared by removing the dentine or enamel layer of ED samples to allow for separate color analysis. Bleaching resulted in a significant color change (Delta E) of ED specimens. Within the observation period, Delta L but not Delta b declined to baseline. L* values of E and D samples also declined and were not significantly different from control samples after 12 months, while b* values did not decrease to baseline. Generally, no differences between the bleaching agents could be observed. Color change of enamel, dentine, and combined ED of in vitro bleached tooth samples is not stable over time with regard to lightness. However, yellowness did not return to baseline within 1 year.

Selective control of gait subtasks in robotic gait training: foot clearance support in stroke survivors with a powered exoskeleton

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Robot-aided gait training is an emerging clinical tool for gait rehabilitation of neurological patients. This paper deals with a novel method of offering gait assistance, using an impedance controlled exoskeleton (LOPES). The provided assistance is based on a recent finding that, in the control of walking, different modules can be discerned that are associated with different subtasks. In this study, a Virtual Model Controller (VMC) for supporting one of these subtasks, namely the foot clearance, is presented and evaluated. Methods The developed VMC provides virtual support at the ankle, to increase foot clearance. Therefore, we first developed a new method to derive reference trajectories of the ankle position. These trajectories consist of splines between key events, which are dependent on walking speed and body height. Subsequently, the VMC was evaluated in twelve healthy subjects and six chronic stroke survivors. The impedance levels, of the support, were altered between trials to investigate whether the controller allowed gradual and selective support. Additionally, an adaptive algorithm was tested, that automatically shaped the amount of support to the subjects’ needs. Catch trials were introduced to determine whether the subjects tended to rely on the support. We also assessed the additional value of providing visual feedback. Results With the VMC, the step height could be selectively and gradually influenced. The adaptive algorithm clearly shaped the support level to the specific needs of every stroke survivor. The provided support did not result in reliance on the support for both groups. All healthy subjects and most patients were able to utilize the visual feedback to increase their active participation. Conclusion The presented approach can provide selective control on one of the essential subtasks of walking. This module is the first in a set of modules to control all subtasks. This enables the therapist to focus the support on the subtasks that are impaired, and leave the other subtasks up to the patient, encouraging him to participate more actively in the training. Additionally, the speed-dependent reference patterns provide the therapist with the tools to easily adapt the treadmill speed to the capabilities and progress of the patient. PMID:23336754

Reported concussion incidence in youth community Rugby Union and parental assessment of post head injury cognitive recovery using the King-Devick test.

PubMed

Silver, David; Brown, Nicola; Gissane, Conor

2018-05-15

To assess the frequency of reported head injuries in youth community Rugby Union and determine whether the King-Devick (K-D) test could be used by parents as a means to chart cognitive recovery following head injury. A prospective cohort study of 489 junior players (U9-U18) conducted at a community level Rugby Union club over four seasons. All players undertook a baseline K-D test at the start of each season. Players identified with suspected concussion performed the K-D test post injury and results were compared to their most recent baseline assessment. Parent/Guardians of the player then oversaw repeated daily testing until baseline scores were surpassed. 49 players were sent for assessment after suspected head injury. 46 parents oversaw daily repeated K-D testing (93.8% engagement). The median reduction in K-D test performance speed post-injury from baseline was 7.32 s (IQR 2.46 - 7.98). A median of 5.1 days/tests were taken for players to surpass baseline performance. No correlation was found between initial post-injury test and cognitive recovery time. 38 head injuries were reported from match play with an incidence rate of 12.7 per 1000 match hours (95% CI 9.2-17.5). The K-D test is a practical tool for baseline, post injury and parentally supervised repeated testing within youth community Rugby Union. Incidence of reported head injuries following match play is higher than previously reported. Parental engagement was high. Post-Injury K-D test performance should not be used as a means to predict symptom recovery. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Vitamin D accelerates clinical recovery from tuberculosis: results of the SUCCINCT Study [Supplementary Cholecalciferol in recovery from tuberculosis]. A randomized, placebo-controlled, clinical trial of vitamin D supplementation in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis'.

PubMed

Salahuddin, Nawal; Ali, Farheen; Hasan, Zahra; Rao, Nisar; Aqeel, Masooma; Mahmood, Faisal

2013-01-19

Vitamin D enhances host protective immune responses to Mycobacterium tuberculosis by suppressing Interferon-gamma (IFN-g) and reducing disease associated inflammation in the host. The objectives of this study were to determine whether vitamin D supplementation to patients with tuberculosis (TB) could influence recovery. Two hundred and fifty nine patients with pulmonary TB were randomized to receive either 600,000 IU of Intramuscular vitamin D3 or placebo for 2 doses. Assessments were performed at 4, 8 and 12 weeks. Early secreted and T cell activated 6 kDa (ESAT6) and Mycobacterium tuberculosis sonicate (MTBs) antigen induced whole blood stimulated IFN-g responses were measured at 0 and 12 weeks. Statistical comparisons between outcome variables at 0 and 12 weeks were performed using Student's t-test and Chi2 tests. After 12 weeks, the vitamin D supplemented arm demonstrated significantly greater mean weight gain (kg)+3.75, (3.16-4.34) versus+2.61 (95% CI 1.99-3.23) p 0.009 and lesser residual disease by chest radiograph; number of zones involved 1.35 v/s 1.82 p 0.004 (95% CI 0.15, 0.79) and 50% or greater reduction in cavity size 106 (89.8%) v/s 111 (94.8%), p 0.035. Vitamin D supplementation led to significant increase in MTBs-induced IFN-g secretion in patients with baseline 'Deficient' 25-hydroxyvitamin D serum levels (p 0.021). Supplementation with high doses of vitamin D accelerated clinical, radiographic improvement in all TB patients and increased host immune activation in patients with baseline 'Deficient' serum vitamin D levels. These results suggest a therapeutic role for vitamin D in the treatment of TB. ClinicalTrials.gov; No. NCT01130311; URL: clinicaltrials.gov.

Rapid vs Maintenance Vitamin D Supplementation in Deficient Children With Asthma to Prevent Exacerbations.

PubMed

Alansari, Khalid; Davidson, Bruce L; Yousef, Khalid Ibrahim; Mohamed, Abdel Nasser H; Alattar, Imad

2017-09-01

Whether vitamin D reduces clinically important exacerbations of childhood asthma remains uncertain. We compared rapid to maintenance vitamin D repletion analyzed by baseline vitamin D level. Children presenting to the ED with moderate-to-severe asthma exacerbations and vitamin D levels ≤ 25 ng/mL underwent masked randomization, and then open dosing to either IM+oral (the latter daily) therapy or daily oral-only therapy, and were followed for 12 months. The primary outcome was patient-initiated unplanned visits for asthma exacerbations, examined two ways: cumulative proportions with an exacerbation, and average exacerbation frequency. As this was a nutrient study, we analyzed treatment groups by quartile of baseline vitamin D level, collecting repeat levels and clinical observations at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months after enrollment. One hundred and sixteen patients in the IM+oral cohort vs 115 in the oral-only cohort had similar mean (SD) baseline levels: 15.1 (5.4) vs 15.8 (5.2) ng/mL (range, 3-25 ng/mL). There was no difference in the primary outcome over the entire 12-month observation period. However, rapid IM+oral supplementation significantly reduced unplanned visits for asthma exacerbations for children with baseline levels of 3 to 11 ng/mL during the initial 3 months: the relative exacerbation rate for the IM+oral cohort compared with the oral-only cohort at 3 months was 0.48 (95% CI, 0.28-0.89; P = .008); average exacerbation frequency per child analysis, relative rate 0.36 (95% CI, 0.13-0.87; P = .017). Otherwise, there were no significant differences between groups. Rapid compared to maintenance vitamin D supplementation for children with the lowest levels resulted in short- but not long-term reduction in asthma exacerbations. Copyright © 2017 American College of Chest Physicians. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Comparison between repaglinide and glimepiride in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a one-year, randomized, double-blind assessment of metabolic parameters and cardiovascular risk factors.

PubMed

Derosa, Giuseppe; Mugellini, Amedeo; Ciccarelli, Leonardina; Crescenzi, Giuseppe; Fogari, Roberto

2003-02-01

Repaglinide and glimepiride are relatively new oral hypoglycemic agents. Few data are available concerning their effects on metabolic parameters other than measures of glycemic control. In addition to assessing the effects of repaglinide and glimepiride on glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, this study also examined the effects of these agents on 3 metabolic parameters known to be cardiovascular risk factors--lipoprotein(a) (Lp[a]), plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), and homocysteine (Hcy). This randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial was conducted at a single center in Italy. Eligible patients were nonsmokers; had no hypertension or coronary heart disease; were taking no hypolipidemic drugs, diuretics, beta-blockers, or thyroxin; and had normal renal function. After an initial 4-week placebo washout period, patients were randomized to receive repaglinide 1 mg/d or glimepiride 1 mg/d. The dose of study drug was optimized over an 8-week titration period, which was followed by a 12-month treatment period. Measures of glycemic control (glycated hemoglobin [HbA1c], fasting plasma glucose [FPG], postprandial plasma glucose [PPG], fasting plasma insulin [FPI], postprandial plasma insulin [PPI]) and the other metabolic parameters of interest were assessed after 6 and 12 months of treatment. One hundred twenty-four patients (63 women, 61 men) completed the study, 62 in each treatment group. There were no significant differences in demographic characteristics between groups. After 6 and 12 months of treatment, FPG levels and HbA1c values were significantly reduced from baseline in both groups (6 months, P < 0.05; 12 months, P < 0.01). After 6 months, PPG levels were significantly decreased only in the repaglinide group (P < 0.05 vs baseline); at 12 months, however, PPG levels were significantly reduced from baseline in both groups (P < 0.01 repaglinide, P < 0.05 glimepiride). No significant changes from baseline in FPI or PPI levels were seen in either group at 6 months, although FPI levels were significantly increased in the repaglinide group at 12 months (P < 0.05). Repaglinide significantly lowered levels of Lp(a), PAI-1, and Hcy after 12 months (all, P < 0.05 vs baseline). Glimepiride significantly lowered levels of Lp(a) and Hcy after 6 months (both, P < 0.05 vs baseline) and levels of Lp(a) (P < 0.01 vs baseline), Hcy (P < 0.01 vs baseline), and PAI-1 (P < 0.05 vs baseline) after 12 months. Repaglinide and glimepiride improved glycemic control and reduced levels of other metabolic parameters of interest in this population of patients with type 2 diabetes. It is possible that the reductions in Lp(a), PAI-1, and Hcy were the result of improved glucose metabolism; however, the possibility that repaglinide and glimepiride may have a direct effect on these parameters should not be excluded.

25 hydroxy vitamin D is higher when a renal multivitamin is given with cholecalciferol at hemodialysis.

PubMed

Subih, Hadil S; Behrens, Janaye; Burt, Brooke; Clement, Louise; Pannell, Rita; Macha, Laura; Spallholz, Julian; Boylan, Mallory

2016-12-01

Seventy six hemodialysis (HD) patients were used in a prospective randomized and clinical trial to determine if a multivitamin with vitamin D (cholecalciferol 12,000 IU/week) given during dialysis would improve the vitamin D status of hemodialysis subjects. Subjects were randomly assigned to two groups: 37 subjects were in the renal multivitamin without vitamin D (MV) group and 39 subjects were in a multivitamin route with vitamin D (MVD) group (12,000 IU of cholecalciferol per week). All subjects were given 2 multivitamin tablets at their 3 HD sessions each week for 20 weeks. Serum 25(OH)D, calcium (Ca), and phosphorus (P) levels were evaluated. At baseline, mean serum 25(OH)D were below adequate (<30 ng/mL) in the MV group (23.5±12.2 ng/mL) and in the MVD group (20.8±10.3 ng/mL). A significant increase was seen in serum 25(OH)D levels (37.7±11.4 ng/mL; p<0.001) in the MVD group after vitamin D supplementation with no rise in the MV group value (21.7±11.4 ng/mL; p=0.06). Prior to supplementation, 17.9% of patients in the MVD group had adequate serum 25(OH)D level and post supplementation 76.9% in the MVD group had adequate serum 25(OH)D. In the MV group, 18.9% subjects had adequate serum 25(OH)D levels at baseline with 18.9% having 25(OH)D >30 ng/mL at the end of the study. There were no significant differences in group values for serum Ca and P. The majority of HD subjects given a multivitamin with cholecalciferol at dialysis had improvement in their vitamin D status.

Exposure to cyanide following a meal of cassava food.

PubMed

Oluwole, O S A; Onabolu, A O; Sowunmi, A

2002-09-05

Exposure to cyanide from gari, a popular cassava food in West Africa, is implicated in the causation of ataxic polyneuropathy and amblyopia, but this has been questioned because cyanide was not detected in gari in a study. This study was carried out to determine if gari is a source of exposure to cyanide. Gari (150 g) containing cyanohydrin, from which 128 micromol of cyanide ions could be released, was dissolved in 500 ml of cold water for each of the 12 healthy subjects to drink. Concentrations of cyanide in plasma and erythrocytes were determined at baseline and following the meal at 30 min, 1 h, hourly for 4 h and two hourly for 12 h. The mean concentrations of cyanide in the plasma were 6 micromol/l (95% CI 2-10) at baseline, 12 micromol/l (95% CI 6-17) at peak and 6 micromol/l (95% CI 2-10) on return to baseline. The mean amount of cyanide absorbed into the plasma was 13 micromol (S.D. 12), while the transit time of absorbed cyanide was 7.3 h (S.D. 2.1). This study shows that exposure to cyanide follows consumption of gari, but the amount of cyanide absorbed into the plasma from a single meal is small and unlikely to cause acute intoxication. The long transit time of absorbed cyanide in the plasma suggests that frequent intake of gari could cause cyanide to accumulate in the plasma.

Structure and Content in Social Cognition: Conceptual and Empirical Analyses.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Edelstein, Wolfgang; And Others

1984-01-01

Conceptual analysis of two perspective-taking tasks identified a number of subtasks calling for equivalent operations of social reasoning within tasks of different content. Subtasks hypothetically formed a logical and developmental sequence of abilities required for decentering. The developmental significance of the hierarchy was tested among 121…

A Randomized Controlled Trial to Prevent Depression and Ameliorate Insulin Resistance in Adolescent Girls at Risk for Type 2 Diabetes.

PubMed

Shomaker, Lauren B; Kelly, Nichole R; Pickworth, Courtney K; Cassidy, Omni L; Radin, Rachel M; Shank, Lisa M; Vannucci, Anna; Thompson, Katherine A; Armaiz-Flores, Sara A; Brady, Sheila M; Demidowich, Andrew P; Galescu, Ovidiu A; Courville, Amber B; Olsen, Cara; Chen, Kong Y; Stice, Eric; Tanofsky-Kraff, Marian; Yanovski, Jack A

2016-10-01

Prospective data suggest depressive symptoms worsen insulin resistance and accelerate type 2 diabetes (T2D) onset. We sought to determine whether reducing depressive symptoms in overweight/obese adolescents at risk for T2D would increase insulin sensitivity and mitigate T2D risk. We conducted a parallel-group, randomized controlled trial comparing a 6-week cognitive-behavioral (CB) depression prevention group with a 6-week health education (HE) control group in 119 overweight/obese adolescent girls with mild-to-moderate depressive symptoms (Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression Scale [CES-D] ≥16) and T2D family history. Primary outcomes were baseline to post-intervention changes in CES-D and whole body insulin sensitivity index (WBISI), derived from 2-h oral glucose tolerance tests. Outcome changes were compared between groups using ANCOVA, adjusting for respective baseline outcome, puberty, race, facilitator, T2D family history degree, baseline age, adiposity, and adiposity change. Multiple imputation was used for missing data. Depressive symptoms decreased (p < 0.001) in CB and HE from baseline to posttreatment, but did not differ between groups (ΔCESD = -12 vs. -11, 95 % CI difference = -4 to +1, p = 0.31). Insulin sensitivity was stable (p > 0.29) in CB and HE (ΔWBISI = 0.1 vs. 0.2, 95 % CI difference = -0.6 to +0.4, p = 0.63). Among all participants, reductions in depressive symptoms were associated with improvements in insulin sensitivity (p = 0.02). Girls at risk for T2D displayed reduced depressive symptoms following 6 weeks of CB or HE. Decreases in depressive symptoms related to improvements in insulin sensitivity. Longer-term follow-up is needed to determine whether either program causes sustained decreases in depressive symptoms and improvements in insulin sensitivity. The trial was registered with clinicaltrials.gov (NCT01425905).

Acoustic and Laser Doppler Anemometer Results for Confluent, 22-Lobed, and Unique-Lobed Mixer Exhaust Systems for Subsonic Jet Noise Reduction

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Salikuddin, M.; Martens, S.; Shin, H.; Majjigi, R. K.; Krejsa, Gene (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

The objective of this task was to develop a design methodology and noise reduction concepts for high bypass exhaust systems which could be applied to both existing production and new advanced engine designs. Special emphasis was given to engine cycles with bypass ratios in the range of 4:1 to 7:1, where jet mixing noise was a primary noise source at full power takeoff conditions. The goal of this effort was to develop the design methodology for mixed-flow exhaust systems and other novel noise reduction concepts that would yield 3 EPNdB noise reduction relative to 1992 baseline technology. Two multi-lobed mixers, a 22-lobed axisymmetric and a 21-lobed with a unique lobe, were designed. These mixers along with a confluent mixer were tested with several fan nozzles of different lengths with and without acoustic treatment in GEAE's Cell 41 under the current subtask (Subtask C). In addition to the acoustic and LDA tests for the model mixer exhaust systems, a semi-empirical noise prediction method for mixer exhaust system is developed. Effort was also made to implement flowfield data for noise prediction by utilizing MGB code. In general, this study established an aero and acoustic diagnostic database to calibrate and refine current aero and acoustic prediction tools.

Advanced composites structural concepts and materials technologies for primary aircraft structures: Design/manufacturing concept assessment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chu, Robert L.; Bayha, Tom D.; Davis, HU; Ingram, J. ED; Shukla, Jay G.

1992-01-01

Composite Wing and Fuselage Structural Design/Manufacturing Concepts have been developed and evaluated. Trade studies were performed to determine how well the concepts satisfy the program goals of 25 percent cost savings, 40 percent weight savings with aircraft resizing, and 50 percent part count reduction as compared to the aluminum Lockheed L-1011 baseline. The concepts developed using emerging technologies such as large scale resin transfer molding (RTM), automatic tow placed (ATP), braiding, out-of-autoclave and automated manufacturing processes for both thermoset and thermoplastic materials were evaluated for possible application in the design concepts. Trade studies were used to determine which concepts carry into the detailed design development subtask.

Effect of aspirin and ticlopidine on platelet deposition in carotid atherosclerosis: assessment by indium-111 platelet scintigraphy

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

Isaka, Y.; Kimura, K.; Etani, H.

The antiplatelet effects of aspirin and ticlopidine were studied by a dual-tracer method, using indium-111 labeled platelets and technetium-99m human serum albumin, in a group of 12 patients with suspected ischemic cerebrovascular disease. The magnitude of platelet accumulation at the carotid bifurcation was expressed as the ratio of radioactivity of indium-111 platelets deposited on the vascular wall to those circulating in the blood-pool (PAI, platelet accumulation index), 48 hr after injection of labeled platelets. PAI values were measured before (baseline studies) and after the antithrombotic therapies (aspirin studies: 325 mg bid for 22.3 +/- 1.3 days, ticlopidine studies: 100 mgmore » tid for 21.8 +/- 2.1 days). At the baseline, the mean PAI value at 24 carotid bifurcations in the patient group was 15.7 +/- 15.3% (mean +/- S.D.) compared to -4.3 +/- 9.1 at 24 carotid bifurcations in 12 normal subjects (p less than 0.01). We defined the upper limit for a normal PAI (%) value to be +13.9, namely the mean PAI plus 2 SD for the carotid bifurcation in normal subjects and used this value for semiquantitative analysis. At the baseline, significant elevation of PAI (more than 13.9%; positive scintigram) was observed at 12 of 24 vessels, while 12 other regions were negative (less than 13.9%). In the lesions with positive scintigraphic results at the baseline, the mean PAI (%) value from the baseline, aspirin and ticlopidine studies was 29.5 +/- 7.0, 11.2 +/- 8.5 (p less than 0.01 versus baseline) and 21.4 +/- 21.3 (not significant from baseline), respectively.« less

Low-protein diet supplemented with keto acids is associated with suppression of small-solute peritoneal transport rate in peritoneal dialysis patients.

PubMed

Jiang, Na; Qian, Jiaqi; Lin, Aiwu; Fang, Wei; Zhang, Weiming; Cao, Liou; Wang, Qin; Ni, Zhaohui; Yao, Qiang

2011-01-01

Objective. We investigate whether low-protein diet would show benefits in suppressing peritoneal transport rate in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. Methods. This is a supplemented analysis of our previously published trial, which randomized 60 PD patients to receive low- (LP: dietary protein intake of 0.6-0.8 g/kg/d), keto-acid-supplemented low- (sLP: 0.6-0.8 g/kg/d with 0.12 g/kg/d of keto acids), or high- (HP: 1.0-1.2 g/kg/d) protein diet and lasted for one year. In this study, the variations of peritoneal transport rate were assessed. Results. While baseline D/P(cr) (dialysate-to-plasma concentration ratio for creatinine at 4 hour) and D/D0(glu) (dialysate glucose at 4 hour to baseline dialysate glucose concentration ratio) were similar, D/P(cr) in group sLP was lower, and D/D0(glu) was higher than those in the other two groups (P < 0.05) at 12th month. D/D0(glu) increased (P < 0.05), and D/P(cr) tended to decrease, (P = 0.071) in group sLP. Conclusions. Low-protein diet with keto acids may benefit PD patients by maintaining peritoneum at a lower transport rate.

Extended low-dose dexamethasone suppression test for diagnosis of atypical Cushing's syndrome in dogs.

PubMed

Fowler, K M; Frank, L A; Morandi, F; Whittemore, J C

2017-07-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate extension of the low-dose dexamethasone suppression (LDDS) test from 8 h to 12 h to detect possible hypercortisolemia associated with atypical hyperadrenocorticism (AHAC). Twelve client-owned dogs were enrolled in the study: 6 healthy dogs (group 1) and 6 dogs with suspected AHAC (group 2). Baseline EDTA plasma samples were collected for endogenous ACTH determination using an immunoradiometric assay. Serum samples were collected before and at 4, 8, 10, and 12 h post-administration of 0.01 mg/kg dexamethasone IV for cortisol concentration determination via chemiluminescent assay. Mean endogenous ACTH concentration did not differ between groups (group 1: 22.4 pg/mL, group 2: 20.0 pg/mL; P > 0.2). Mean baseline cortisol concentration also did not differ significantly between groups (group 1: 3.03 μg/dL, group 2: 4.95 μg/dL; P > 0.2) nor was there any difference in mean cortisol concentration between the groups at any other time point (P > 0.2). The cortisol concentration from 1 dog in group 2 suppressed to 0.7 μg/dL at 8 h but increased to 1.5 μg/dL at 10 h and 3.7 μg/dL at 12 h post-dexamethasone. Based on results of this study, use of an extended LDDS test could not differentiate between healthy dogs and dogs with AHAC. Diagnosis of AHAC should continue to be based on prior established criteria until new testing has been identified. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Propulsion and Power Rapid Response Research and Development (R&D) Support. Delivery Order 0011: Advanced Propulsion Fuels R&D Subtask: Advanced Propulsion Fuels Research and Development Support to AFRL/RQTF

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-12-01

74-126 1010511 1 13~6 1.1-Dithloroerhaoe-~ I )()61).07-0 lOS % 80-120 1010511 1 13~6 Tohtere-DS 2037-16-5 116 % 73-B2 1010511 1 13~6 Project... lOS 73-125 0.0550 110 74-125 0.0556 111 75-125 0.05SO 116 59-125 0.0491 9S 73-125 0.0508 102 73-125 0.0491 9S 69-127 0.0535 107 75-125 0.0545...109 75-125 0.0541 lOS 75-125 0.0318 64 65-135 0.0467 93 68-127 0.0496 99 72-125 0.0456 91 75-125 0.0474 95 75-125 0.0470 9~ 59-172 0.0505 101

Pressurized fluidized-bed hydroretorting of Eastern oil shales -- Sulfur control. Topical report for Subtask 3.1, In-bed sulfur capture tests; Subtask 3.2, Electrostatic desulfurization; Subtask 3.3, Microbial desulfurization and denitrification

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

Roberts, M.J.; Abbasian, J.; Akin, C.

1992-05-01

This topical report on ``Sulfur Control`` presents the results of work conducted by the Institute of Gas Technology (IGT), the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT), and the Ohio State University (OSU) to develop three novel approaches for desulfurization that have shown good potential with coal and could be cost-effective for oil shales. These are (1) In-Bed Sulfur Capture using different sorbents (IGT), (2) Electrostatic Desulfurization (IIT), and (3) Microbial Desulfurization and Denitrification (OSU and IGT). The objective of the task on In-Bed Sulfur Capture was to determine the effectiveness of different sorbents (that is, limestone, calcined limestone, dolomite, and siderite)more » for capturing sulfur (as H{sub 2}S) in the reactor during hydroretorting. The objective of the task on Electrostatic Desulfurization was to determine the operating conditions necessary to achieve a high degree of sulfur removal and kerogen recovery in IIT`s electrostatic separator. The objectives of the task on Microbial Desulfurization and Denitrification were to (1) isolate microbial cultures and evaluate their ability to desulfurize and denitrify shale, (2) conduct laboratory-scale batch and continuous tests to improve and enhance microbial removal of these components, and (3) determine the effects of processing parameters, such as shale slurry concentration, solids settling characteristics, agitation rate, and pH on the process.« less

The Effect of Guided Imagery and Internal Visualization on Learning

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-01-01

existance) of - . memory traces, and how retrival cues operate, to name a few. The lack of a single theory or a coherent approach has not deterred movement...and function (Subtask 3) to a 31% gain over the control group for information emphasizing the rote memory of sequential data (Subtask 1). Overall, the

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

Baker, Scott E.; Bruno, Kenneth S.; Butcher, Mark G.

In 2009, we continued to address barriers to fungal fermentation in the primary areas of morphology control, genomics, proteomics, fungal hyperproductivity, biomass-to-products via fungal based consolidated bioprocesses, and filamentous fungal ethanol. “Alternative renewable fuels from fungi” was added as a new subtask. Plans were also made to launch a new advanced strain development subtask in FY2010.

Strategic adaptation to performance objectives in a dual-task setting.

PubMed

Janssen, Christian P; Brumby, Duncan P

2010-11-01

How do people interleave attention when multitasking? One dominant account is that the completion of a subtask serves as a cue to switch tasks. But what happens if switching solely at subtask boundaries led to poor performance? We report a study in which participants manually dialed a UK-style telephone number while driving a simulated vehicle. If the driver were to exclusively return his or her attention to driving after completing a subtask (i.e., using the single break in the xxxxx-xxxxxx representational structure of the number), then we would expect to see a relatively poor driving performance. In contrast, our results show that drivers choose to return attention to steering control before the natural subtask boundary. A computational modeling analysis shows that drivers had to adopt this strategy to meet the required performance objective of maintaining an acceptable lateral position in the road while dialing. Taken together these results support the idea that people can strategically control the allocation of attention in multitask settings to meet specific performance criteria. Copyright © 2010 Cognitive Science Society, Inc.

Cooperation driven coherence: Brains working hard together.

PubMed

Bezerianos, Anastasios; Sun, Yu; Chen, Yu; Woong, Kian Fong; Taya, Fumihiko; Arico, Pietro; Borghini, Gianluca; Babiloni, Fabio; Thakor, Nitish

2015-01-01

The current study aims to look at the difference in coupling of EEG activity of participant pairs while they perform a cooperative, concurrent, independent yet different task at high and low difficulty levels. Participants performed the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) designed Multi-Attribute Task Battery (MATB-II) task which simulates a pilot and copilot operating an aircraft. Each participant in the pair was responsible for 2 out of 4 subtasks which were independent and different from one another while all tasks occurs concurrently in real time with difficulty levels being the frequency that adjustments are required for each subtask. We found that as the task become more difficult, there was more coupling between the pilot and copilot.

Association between HIV status and psychological symptoms in perimenopausal women.

PubMed

Looby, Sara E; Psaros, Christina; Raggio, Greer; Rivard, Corinne; Smeaton, Laura; Shifren, Jan; Grinspoon, Steven; Joffe, Hadine

2018-01-29

HIV-infected women are burdened by depression and anxiety, which may impact adherence to antiretroviral therapy and overall quality of life. Yet, little is known about the scope of psychological symptoms in the growing number of HIV-infected women reaching menopause, when affective symptoms are more prevalent in the general population. We conducted a longitudinal study to compare affective symptoms between perimenopausal HIV-infected and non-HIV-infected women. The Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D), and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale (GAD-7) were completed at baseline and 12 months among 33 HIV-infected and 33 non-HIV-infected perimenopausal women matched by race, age, menstrual patterns, and BMI. Linear regression models estimated the relationship of baseline GAD-7 and CES-D scores with clinical factors. All women were perimenopausal at baseline, and the vast majority remained perimenopausal throughout follow-up. HIV status was associated with higher baseline CES-D scores (median [interquartile range] 21 [12, 29] vs 10 [5, 14]; P = 0.03) and GAD-7 scores (7 [5, 15] vs 2 [1, 7]; P = 0.01), controlling for smoking, substance use, and antidepressant use. Depressive symptoms and anxiety remained significantly higher in the HIV-infected women at 12 months (P ≤ 0.01). Significant relationships of depressive symptoms (P = 0.048) and anxiety (P = 0.02) with hot flash severity were also observed. Perimenopausal HIV-infected women experienced a disproportionately high level of affective symptom burden over a 12-month observation period. Given the potential for these factors to influence adherence to HIV clinical care and quality of life, careful assessment and referral for treatment of these symptoms is essential.

Do incentives undermine intrinsic motivation? Increases in intrinsic motivation within an incentive-based intervention for people living with HIV in Tanzania

PubMed Central

Dow, William H.; Njau, Prosper F.

2018-01-01

Background Cash and in-kind incentives can improve health outcomes in various settings; however, there is concern that incentives may ‘crowd out’ intrinsic motivation to engage in beneficial behaviors. We examined this hypothesis in a randomized trial of food and cash incentives for people living with HIV infection in Tanzania. Methods We analyzed data from 469 individuals randomized to one of three study arms: standard of care, short-term cash transfers, or short-term food assistance. Eligible participants were: 1) ≥18 years old; 2) HIV-infected; 3) food insecure; and 4) initiated antiretroviral therapy (ART) ≤90 days before the study. Food or cash transfers, valued at ~$11 per month and conditional on attending clinic visits, were provided for ≤6 months. Intrinsic motivation was measured at baseline, 6, and 12 months using the autonomous motivation section of the Treatment Self-Regulation Questionnaire (TSRQ). We compared the change in TSRQ score from baseline to 6 and 12 months and the change within study arms. Results The mean intrinsic motivation score was 2.79 at baseline (range: 1–3), 2.91 at 6 months (range: 1–3), and 2.95 at 12 months (range: 2–3), which was 6 months after the incentives had ended. Among all patients, the intrinsic motivation score increased by 0.13 points at 6 months (95% CI (0.09, 0.17), Cohen’s d = 0.29) and 0.19 points at 12 months (95% CI (0.14, 0.24), Cohen’s d = 0.49). Intrinsic motivation also increased within each study group at 6 months: 0.15 points in the food arm (95% CI (0.09, 0.21), Cohen’s d = 0.37), 0.11 points in the cash arm (95% CI (0.05, 0.18), Cohen’s d = 0.25), and 0.08 points in the comparison arm (95% CI (-0.03, 0.19), Cohen’s d = 0.21); findings were similar at 12 months. Increases in motivation were statistically similar between arms at 6 and 12 months. Conclusion Intrinsic motivation for ART adherence increased significantly both overall and within the food and cash incentive arms, even after the incentive period was over. Increases in motivation did not differ by study group. These results suggest that incentive interventions for treatment adherence should not be withheld due to concerns of crowding out intrinsic motivation. PMID:29902177

Validating Human Behavioral Models for Combat Simulations Using Techniques for the Evaluation of Human Performance

DTIC Science & Technology

2004-01-01

Cognitive Task Analysis Abstract As Department of Defense (DoD) leaders rely more on modeling and simulation to provide information on which to base...capabilities and intent. Cognitive Task Analysis (CTA) Cognitive Task Analysis (CTA) is an extensive/detailed look at tasks and subtasks performed by a...Domain Analysis and Task Analysis: A Difference That Matters. In Cognitive Task Analysis , edited by J. M. Schraagen, S.

Air Force Research Initiation Program. 1986 Technical Report. Volume 3

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-04-01

functions quickly. b. Knowledgeable intermittent users retain the operation- al concepts. c. Error messages are rarely needed. d. Users can see...Motions," AIAA J., Vol. 23, No. 11, November 1985, pp. 1653-1659. 83-16 3.0 BEGINNING OF REGION OF FAST DYNAMIC STALL VORTEX GROWTH INITIATION OF DYNAMIC...19E6. Observations of the oil/water separator conducted during firetraining excercise March 1, 1986. Memorandum Subtask 4.31. Dynamac Corporation

Discovery of a New Cellular Motion and Its Relevance to Breast Cancer and Involution

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-02-01

motion (CAMo), live cell imaging , confocal microscopy Overall Project Summary: During this first year of funding we have concentrated our work to...cell types in 3D cultures and in vivo. Subtask 1.1a: Real time live cell imaging using confocal microscopy will be used to image cellular movement...exciting as they are important steps in understanding behavior of normal myoepithelial cells using live cell imaging in physiologically

Vitamin D Supplementation Does Not Impact Insulin Resistance in Black and White Children.

PubMed

Ferira, Ashley J; Laing, Emma M; Hausman, Dorothy B; Hall, Daniel B; McCabe, George P; Martin, Berdine R; Hill Gallant, Kathleen M; Warden, Stuart J; Weaver, Connie M; Peacock, Munro; Lewis, Richard D

2016-04-01

Vitamin D supplementation trials with diabetes-related outcomes have been conducted almost exclusively in adults and provide equivocal findings. The objective of this study was to determine the dose-response of vitamin D supplementation on fasting glucose, insulin, and a surrogate measure of insulin resistance in white and black children aged 9–13 years, who participated in the Georgia, Purdue, and Indiana University (or GAPI) trial: a 12-week multisite, randomized, triple-masked, dose-response, placebo-controlled vitamin D trial. Black and white children in the early stages of puberty (N = 323, 50% male, 51% black) were equally randomized to receive vitamin D3 (0, 400, 1000, 2000, or 4000 IU/day) for 12 weeks. Fasting serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D), glucose and insulin were assessed at baseline and weeks 6 and 12. Homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance was used as a surrogate measure of insulin resistance. Statistical analyses were conducted as intent-to-treat using a mixed effects model. Baseline serum 25(OH)D was inversely associated with insulin (r = −0.140, P = 0.017) and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (r = −0.146, P = 0.012) after adjusting for race, sex, age, pubertal maturation, fat mass, and body mass index. Glucose, insulin, and insulin resistance increased (F > 5.79, P < .003) over the 12 weeks, despite vitamin D dose-dependent increases in serum 25(OH)D. Despite significant baseline inverse relationships between serum 25(OH)D and measures of insulin resistance, vitamin D supplementation had no impact on fasting glucose, insulin, or a surrogate measure of insulin resistance over 12 weeks in apparently healthy children.

Microdose transdermal estrogen therapy for relief of vulvovaginal symptoms in postmenopausal women.

PubMed

Bachmann, Gloria A; Schaefers, Matthias; Uddin, Alkaz; Utian, Wulf H

2009-01-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of microdose transdermal 17beta-estradiol (E2) therapy in postmenopausal women with moderate to severe vulvovaginal symptoms. This report is based on a subset of 121 women who reported most bothersome moderate or severe vulvovaginal symptoms at baseline, from a previous randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter study of 425 healthy, symptomatic, postmenopausal women. Recruits had experienced at least 7 moderate or severe hot flushes daily for at least 1 week or at least 50 moderate or severe hot flushes per week for at least 1 week. Effects on coprimary efficacy variables have been reported previously. Participants received low-dose transdermal E2 plus levonorgestrel (n = 43; nominal delivery 0.023 mg/d E2/0.0075 mg/d levonorgestrel), microdose E2 (n = 42; nominal delivery 0.014 mg/d), or placebo (n = 36) for 12 weeks. Secondary efficacy variables reported herein include mean change from baseline in vaginal pH and vaginal maturation index, the proportion of women with symptoms of vulvar and vaginal atrophy at baseline and week 12, and the proportion of women with moderate-to-severe symptoms of vulvar and vaginal atrophy. Microdose transdermal E2 treatment was associated with a consistent benefit versus placebo in women with vulvovaginal atrophy. There was a statistically significant difference between both E2 versus placebo for changes in vaginal pH and vaginal maturation index. Microdose transdermal E2 offers a useful addition to the therapeutic armamentarium for postmenopausal women in whom vulvovaginal symptoms are particularly troublesome.

Patch testing to a textile dye mix by the international contact dermatitis research group.

PubMed

Isaksson, Marléne; Ale, Iris; Andersen, Klaus E; Diepgen, Thomas; Goh, Chee-Leok; Goossens R, An; Jerajani, Hemangi; Maibach, Howard I; Sasseville, Denis; Bruze, Magnus

2015-01-01

Disperse dyes are well-known contact sensitizers not included in the majority of commercially available baseline series. To investigate the outcome of patch testing to a textile dye mix (TDM) consisting of 8 disperse dyes. Two thousand four hundred ninety-three consecutive dermatitis patients in 9 dermatology clinics were patch tested with a TDM 6.6%, consisting of Disperse (D) Blue 35, D Yellow 3, D Orange 1 and 3, D Red 1 and 17, all 1.0% each, and D Blue 106 and D Blue 124, each 0.3%. 90 reacted positively to the TDM. About 92.2% of the patients allergic to the TDM were also tested with the 8 separate dyes. Contact allergy to TDM was found in 3.6% (1.3-18.2) Simultaneous reactivity to p-phenylenediamine was found in 61.1% of the TDM-positive patients. Contact allergy to TDM and not to other p-amino-substituted sensitizers was diagnosed in 1.2%. The most frequent dye allergen in the TDM-positive patients was D Orange 3. Over 30% of the TDM allergic patients had been missed if only the international baseline series was tested. Contact allergy to TDM could explain or contribute to dermatitis in over 20% of the patients. Textile dye mix should be considered for inclusion into the international baseline series.

Supervised and Unsupervised Aspect Category Detection for Sentiment Analysis with Co-occurrence Data.

PubMed

Schouten, Kim; van der Weijde, Onne; Frasincar, Flavius; Dekker, Rommert

2018-04-01

Using online consumer reviews as electronic word of mouth to assist purchase-decision making has become increasingly popular. The Web provides an extensive source of consumer reviews, but one can hardly read all reviews to obtain a fair evaluation of a product or service. A text processing framework that can summarize reviews, would therefore be desirable. A subtask to be performed by such a framework would be to find the general aspect categories addressed in review sentences, for which this paper presents two methods. In contrast to most existing approaches, the first method presented is an unsupervised method that applies association rule mining on co-occurrence frequency data obtained from a corpus to find these aspect categories. While not on par with state-of-the-art supervised methods, the proposed unsupervised method performs better than several simple baselines, a similar but supervised method, and a supervised baseline, with an -score of 67%. The second method is a supervised variant that outperforms existing methods with an -score of 84%.

Bone health in long-term gastric cancer survivors: A prospective study of high-dose vitamin D supplementation using an easy administration scheme.

PubMed

Climent, Marta; Pera, Manuel; Aymar, Isabel; Ramón, José M; Grande, Luis; Nogués, Xavier

2018-07-01

Bone disease in long-term survivors after gastric cancer resection has received little research attention. This study aimed to investigate bone health after curative resection of gastric cancer and the consequences of high-dose vitamin D supplementation in patients with low levels of 25-(OH)-vitamin D. Disease-free patients at least 24 months after gastric cancer resection represented the study cohort. Serum markers of bone metabolism were assessed at baseline and at 3 and 12 months. Bone mineral density and presence of fractures were assessed by X-ray at baseline. Patients with 25-(OH)-vitamin D ≤30 ng/mL at baseline received 16,000 IU of vitamin D3 every 10 days during the 1-year follow-up. Forty patients were included in the study. Mean time from surgery was 48.9 (24-109) months. Vitamin D insufficiency and secondary hyperparathyroidism were observed in 38 and 20 patients, respectively. Densitometry showed osteoporosis in 14 women and seven men and prevalent fractures in 12 women and six men at baseline. After 3 months of vitamin D supplementation, 35 patients reached values of 25-(OH)-vitamin D over 30 ng/mL. After 12 months, 38 patients were in the normal range of 25-(OH)-vitamin D. At the same time, iPTH levels and markers of bone turnover (C-terminal cross-linked telopeptide of type-I collagen, serum concentrations of bone-specific alkaline phosphatase and osteocalcin) significantly decreased after vitamin D intervention. Oral administration of high doses of vitamin D is easily implemented and restored 25-(OH)-vitamin D and iPTH values, which are frequently disturbed after gastric cancer resection.

Classroom evaluation of the Arlyn Arm robotic workstation.

PubMed

Eberhardt, S P; Osborne, J; Rahman, T

2000-01-01

High school and junior high school students with neuromuscular weakness and other disorders of the arms evaluated a recently commercialized robotic workstation, the Arlyn Arm, to carry out art projects and science experiments. These tasks were designed for independent execution with the workstation using standard or custom-designed tools. Each task was divided into subtasks, and the execution time of each subtask was determined as a measure of efficiency. Special attention was given to the causes of required experimenter intervention. While subjects easily accomplished some subtasks, others required considerable intervention. Most of these interventions could be avoided by further customizing accessories. It is concluded that the Arlyn Arm workstation could be of considerable benefit in a classroom setting to persons with severe neuromuscular disorders.

L-Band System Engineering - Concepts of Use, Systems Performance Requirements, and Architecture

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Henriksen, Stephen; Zelkin, Natalie

2011-01-01

This document is being provided as part of ITT s NASA Glenn Research Center Aerospace Communication Systems Technical Support (ACSTS) contract NNC05CA85C, Task 7: New ATM Requirements-Future Communications, C-band and L-band Communications Standard Development. Task 7 was motivated by the five year technology assessment performed for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) under the joint FAA-EUROCONTROL cooperative research Action Plan (AP-17), also known as the Future Communications Study (FCS). It was based on direction provided by the FAA project-level agreement (PLA FY09_G1M.02-02v1) for "New ATM Requirements-Future Communications." Task 7 was separated into two distinct subtasks, each aligned with specific work elements and deliverable items. Subtask 7-1 addressed C-band airport surface data communications standards development, systems engineering, test bed development, and tests/demonstrations to establish operational capability for what is now referred to as the Aeronautical Mobile Airport Communications System (AeroMACS). Subtask 7-2, which is the subject of this report, focused on preliminary systems engineering and support of joint FAA/EUROCONTROL development and evaluation of a future L-band (960 to 1164 MHz) air/ground (A/G) communication system known as the L-band digital aeronautical communications system (L-DACS), which was defined during the FCS. The proposed L-DACS will be capable of providing ATM services in continental airspace in the 2020+ timeframe. Subtask 7-2 was performed in two phases. Phase I featured development of Concepts of Use, high level functional analyses, performance of initial L-band system safety and security risk assessments, and development of high level requirements and architectures. It also included the aforementioned support of joint L-DACS development and evaluation, including inputs to L-DACS design specifications. Phase II provided a refinement of the systems engineering activities performed during Phase I, along with continued joint FAA/EUROCONTROL L-DACS development and evaluation support.

Mango Supplementation Has No Effects on Inflammatory Mediators in Obese Adults

PubMed Central

Evans, Shirley F; Beebe, Maureen; Mahmood, Maryam; Janthachotikun, Sawanya; Eldoumi, Heba; Peterson, Sandra; Payton, Mark; Perkins-Veazie, Penelope; Smith, Brenda J; Lucas, Edralin A

2017-01-01

This pilot study examined the effects of freeze-dried mango (Mangifera indica L.) supplementation on anthropometric measurements, lipid parameters, and inflammatory mediators in obese individuals. A total of 20 obese (body mass index [BMI]: 30-35 kg/m2) adults (11 men and 9 women), aged 20 to 50 years, received 10 g/d of ground freeze-dried mango pulp for 12 weeks. Anthropometrics, lipids, and inflammatory mediators were assessed at baseline and after 12 weeks of mango supplementation. There were no differences between baseline and final visits in inflammatory mediators, lipids, diet, physical activity, and anthropometrics. Relationships were present at baseline and final visits between adiponectin and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and between leptin and fat mass. Correlations were found after 12 weeks of mango supplementation between leptin and the following variables: waist-to-height ratio, BMI, percent fat, and fat mass. Our findings demonstrate that 12-week consumption of freeze-dried mango by obese individuals has no impact on obesity-related inflammation. PMID:28983188

Linagliptin plus metformin in patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes and marked hyperglycemia.

PubMed

Ross, Stuart A; Caballero, A Enrique; Del Prato, Stefano; Gallwitz, Baptist; Lewis-D'Agostino, Diane; Bailes, Zelie; Thiemann, Sandra; Patel, Sanjay; Woerle, Hans-Juergen; von Eynatten, Maximilian

2016-11-01

Few studies of oral glucose-lowering drugs exist in newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes (T2D) patients with marked hyperglycemia, and insulin is often proposed as initial treatment. We evaluated the oral initial combination of metformin and linagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor, in this population. We performed a pre-specified subgroup analysis of a randomized study in which newly diagnosed T2D patients with glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) 8.5%-12.0% received linagliptin/metformin or linagliptin monotherapy. Subgroups of baseline HbA1c, age, body-mass index (BMI), renal function, race, and ethnicity were evaluated, with efficacy measured by HbA1c change from baseline after 24 weeks. HbA1c reductions from baseline (mean 9.7%) at week 24 in the overall population were an adjusted mean -2.81% ± 0.12% with linagliptin/metformin (n = 132) and -2.02% ± 0.13% with linagliptin (n = 113); treatment difference -0.79% (95% CI -1.13 to -0.46, P < 0.0001). In patients with baseline HbA1c ≥9.5%, HbA1c reduction was -3.37% with linagliptin/metformin (n = 76) and -2.53% with linagliptin (n = 61); difference -0.84% (95% CI -1.32 to -0.35). In those with baseline HbA1c <9.5%, HbA1c reduction was -2.08% with linagliptin/metformin (n = 56) and -1.39% with linagliptin (n = 52); difference -0.69% (95% CI -1.23 to -0.15). Changes in HbA1c and treatment differences between the linagliptin/metformin and linagliptin groups were of similar magnitudes to the overall population across patient subgroups based on age, BMI, renal function, and race. Drug-related adverse events occurred in 8.8% and 5.7% of linagliptin/metformin and linagliptin patients, respectively; no severe hypoglycemia occurred. Linagliptin/metformin combination in newly diagnosed T2D patients with marked hyperglycemia was well tolerated and elicited substantial improvements in glycemic control regardless of baseline HbA1c, age, BMI, renal function, or race. Thus, newly diagnosed, markedly hyperglycemic patients may be effectively treated by combinations of oral agents. www.clinicaltrials.gov identifier is NCT01512979.

Randomized double-blind trial of darbepoetin alfa in patients with symptomatic heart failure and anemia.

PubMed

Ghali, Jalal K; Anand, Inder S; Abraham, William T; Fonarow, Gregg C; Greenberg, Barry; Krum, Henry; Massie, Barry M; Wasserman, Scott M; Trotman, Marie-Louise; Sun, Yan; Knusel, Beat; Armstrong, Paul

2008-01-29

Substantial evidence suggests that anemia is an independent risk factor for worse outcomes in patients with heart failure (HF). The Study of Anemia in Heart Failure Trial (STAMINA-HeFT) is the largest multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to date evaluating the effect of treating anemia in HF. Patients (N=319) with symptomatic HF, left ventricular ejection fraction < or = 40%, and hemoglobin > or = 9.0 g/dL and < or = 12.5 g/dL were randomized (double-blind) to placebo (N=157) or darbepoetin alfa (N=162) subcutaneously every 2 weeks for 1 year (target hemoglobin, 14.0+/-1.0 g/dL). The primary end point was change from baseline to week 27 in treadmill exercise time. Secondary end points were change from baseline in New York Heart Association class and quality of life at week 27. An additional prespecified efficacy analysis included the time to death by any cause or first HF-related hospitalization by 1 year. At baseline, the median (interquartile range) hemoglobin was 11.4 (10.9, 12.0) g/dL. At week 27, darbepoetin alfa treatment increased median (interquartile range) hemoglobin by 1.8 (1.1, 2.5) g/dL (placebo, 0.3 [-0.2, 1.0] g/dL; P<0.001). Of the patients treated with darbepoetin alfa, 85% achieved 2 consecutive hemoglobin levels of 14.0+/-1.0 g/dL during the study and experienced a hemoglobin increase of > or = 1.0 g/dL from baseline. By intent-to-treat analysis, darbepoetin alfa treatment did not significantly improve exercise duration, New York Heart Association class, or quality of life score compared with placebo. A nonsignificant trend was observed toward a lower risk of all-cause mortality or first HF hospitalization in darbepoetin alfa-treated patients compared with placebo (hazard ratio, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.43, 1.08; P=0.10). Occurrences of adverse events were similar in both treatment groups. In this study of patients with symptomatic HF and anemia, treatment with darbepoetin alfa was not associated with significant clinical benefits. Darbepoetin alfa treatment was well tolerated and effectively raised hemoglobin. A trend of lower risk of morbidity and mortality was observed.

Measurement of Fatigue Crack Growth Relationships in Hydrogen Gas for Pressure Swing Adsorber Vessel Steels

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

Somerday, Brian P.; Barney, Monica

We measured the hydrogen-assisted fatigue crack growth rates (da/dN) for SA516 Grade 70 steel as a function of stress-intensity factor range (ΔK) and load-cycle frequency to provide life-prediction data relevant to pressure swing adsorber (PSA) vessels. For ΔK values up to 18.5 MPa m 1/2, the baseline da/dN versus ΔK relationship measured at 1Hz in 2.8 MPa hydrogen gas represents an upper bound with respect to crack growth rates measured at lower frequency. However, at higher ΔK values, we found that the baseline da/dN data had to be corrected to account for modestly higher crack growth rates at the lowermore » frequencies relevant to PSA vessel operation.« less

Measurement of Fatigue Crack Growth Relationships in Hydrogen Gas for Pressure Swing Adsorber Vessel Steels

DOE PAGES

Somerday, Brian P.; Barney, Monica

2014-12-04

We measured the hydrogen-assisted fatigue crack growth rates (da/dN) for SA516 Grade 70 steel as a function of stress-intensity factor range (ΔK) and load-cycle frequency to provide life-prediction data relevant to pressure swing adsorber (PSA) vessels. For ΔK values up to 18.5 MPa m 1/2, the baseline da/dN versus ΔK relationship measured at 1Hz in 2.8 MPa hydrogen gas represents an upper bound with respect to crack growth rates measured at lower frequency. However, at higher ΔK values, we found that the baseline da/dN data had to be corrected to account for modestly higher crack growth rates at the lowermore » frequencies relevant to PSA vessel operation.« less

Vitamin D levels are associated with gross motor function in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

PubMed

Paganoni, Sabrina; Macklin, Eric A; Karam, Chafic; Yu, Hong; Gonterman, Fernando; Fetterman, K Ashley; Cudkowicz, Merit; Berry, James; Wills, Anne-Marie

2017-10-01

The objective of this study was to determine whether serum vitamin D [25(OH)D] levels are associated with disease progression in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). 25(OH)D was measured in subjects enrolled in a multicenter study for validation of ALS biomarkers. Baseline 25(OH)D levels were correlated with baseline ALSFRS-R scores. Average 25(OH)D levels from baseline and month 6 visits (seasonally asynchronous) were used to predict subsequent rate of change in ALSFRS-R from month 6 to month 18. Most subjects had either insufficient or deficient 25(OH)D levels. Lower 25(OH)D was associated with lower ALSFRS-R gross motor scores, but not lower ALSFRS-R total scores at baseline. Levels of 25(OH)D were not predictive of disease progression over the next 12 months. 25(OH)D was associated with baseline gross motor ALSFRS-R scores but did not predict the rate of disease progression. Vitamin D levels may reflect poor mobility in patients with ALS. Muscle Nerve, 2017 Muscle Nerve 56: 726-731, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Triangular Titanium Implants for Minimally Invasive Sacroiliac Joint Fusion: 2-Year Follow-Up from a Prospective Multicenter Trial.

PubMed

Duhon, Bradley S; Bitan, Fabien; Lockstadt, Harry; Kovalsky, Don; Cher, Daniel; Hillen, Travis

2016-01-01

Sacroiliac joint (SIJ) dysfunction is an underdiagnosed condition. Several published cohorts have reported favorable mid-term outcomes after SIJ fusion using titanium implants placed across the SIJ. Herein we report long-term (24-month) results from a prospective multicenter clinical trial. One hundred and seventy-two subjects at 26 US sites with SI joint dysfunction were enrolled and underwent minimally invasive SI joint fusion with triangular titanium implants. Subjects underwent structured assessments preoperatively and at 1, 3, 6, 12, 18 and 24 months postoperatively, including SIJ pain ratings (0-100 visual analog scale), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Short Form-36 (SF-36), EuroQOL-5D (EQ-5D), and patient satisfaction. Adverse events were collected throughout follow-up. All participating patients underwent a high-resolution pelvic CT scan at 1 year. Mean subject age was 50.9 years and 69.8% were women. SIJ pain was present for an average of 5.1 years prior to surgical treatment. SIJ pain decreased from 79.8 at baseline to 30.4 at 12 months and remained low at 26.0 at 24 months (p<.0001 for change from baseline). ODI decreased from 55.2 at baseline to 31.5 at 12 months and remained low at 30.9 at 24 months (p<.0001 for change from baseline). Quality of life (SF-36 and EQ-5D) improvements seen at 12 months were sustained at 24 months. The proportion of subjects taking opioids for SIJ or low back pain decreased from 76.2% at baseline to 55.0% at 24 months (p <.0001). To date, 8 subjects (4.7%) have undergone one or more revision SIJ surgeries. 7 device-related adverse events occurred. CT scan at one year showed a high rate (97%) of bone adherence to at least 2 implants on both the iliac and sacral sides with modest rates of bone growth across the SIJ. In this study of patients with SIJ dysfunction, minimally invasive SI joint fusion using triangular titanium implants showed marked improvements in pain, disability and quality of life at 2 years. Imaging showed that bone apposition to implants was common but radiographic evidence of intraarticular fusion within the joint may take more than 1 year in many patients. This prospective multicenter clinical trial was approved by local or regional IRBs at each center prior to first patient enrollment. Informed consent with IRB-approved study-specific consent forms was obtained from all patients prior to participation.

Triangular Titanium Implants for Minimally Invasive Sacroiliac Joint Fusion: 2-Year Follow-Up from a Prospective Multicenter Trial

PubMed Central

Bitan, Fabien; Lockstadt, Harry; Kovalsky, Don; Cher, Daniel; Hillen, Travis

2016-01-01

Background Sacroiliac joint (SIJ) dysfunction is an underdiagnosed condition. Several published cohorts have reported favorable mid-term outcomes after SIJ fusion using titanium implants placed across the SIJ. Herein we report long-term (24-month) results from a prospective multicenter clinical trial. Methods One hundred and seventy-two subjects at 26 US sites with SI joint dysfunction were enrolled and underwent minimally invasive SI joint fusion with triangular titanium implants. Subjects underwent structured assessments preoperatively and at 1, 3, 6, 12, 18 and 24 months postoperatively, including SIJ pain ratings (0-100 visual analog scale), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Short Form-36 (SF-36), EuroQOL-5D (EQ-5D), and patient satisfaction. Adverse events were collected throughout follow-up. All participating patients underwent a high-resolution pelvic CT scan at 1 year. Results Mean subject age was 50.9 years and 69.8% were women. SIJ pain was present for an average of 5.1 years prior to surgical treatment. SIJ pain decreased from 79.8 at baseline to 30.4 at 12 months and remained low at 26.0 at 24 months (p<.0001 for change from baseline). ODI decreased from 55.2 at baseline to 31.5 at 12 months and remained low at 30.9 at 24 months (p<.0001 for change from baseline). Quality of life (SF-36 and EQ-5D) improvements seen at 12 months were sustained at 24 months. The proportion of subjects taking opioids for SIJ or low back pain decreased from 76.2% at baseline to 55.0% at 24 months (p <.0001). To date, 8 subjects (4.7%) have undergone one or more revision SIJ surgeries. 7 device-related adverse events occurred. CT scan at one year showed a high rate (97%) of bone adherence to at least 2 implants on both the iliac and sacral sides with modest rates of bone growth across the SIJ. Conclusions In this study of patients with SIJ dysfunction, minimally invasive SI joint fusion using triangular titanium implants showed marked improvements in pain, disability and quality of life at 2 years. Imaging showed that bone apposition to implants was common but radiographic evidence of intraarticular fusion within the joint may take more than 1 year in many patients. This prospective multicenter clinical trial was approved by local or regional IRBs at each center prior to first patient enrollment. Informed consent with IRB-approved study-specific consent forms was obtained from all patients prior to participation. PMID:27162715

In HIV/hepatitis C virus co-infected patients, higher 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations were not related to hepatitis C virus treatment responses but were associated with ritonavir use.

PubMed

Branch, Andrea D; Kang, Minhee; Hollabaugh, Kimberly; Wyatt, Christina M; Chung, Raymond T; Glesby, Marshall J

2013-08-01

Among patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) monoinfection, 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations are positively associated with a response to peg-interferon/ribavirin. Data on the relation between 25(OH)D concentrations and HCV treatment response in HIV-infected patients are limited. The objective was to determine whether baseline 25(OH)D concentrations predict virologic response in HIV/HCV co-infected patients and to examine variables associated with 25(OH)D concentrations ≥30 ng/mL. Data and samples from 144 HCV genotype 1, treatment-naive patients from a completed HCV treatment trial were examined in this retrospective study. Early virologic response (EVR) was defined as ≥2 log10 reduction in HCV RNA and/or HCV RNA <600 IU/mL at week 12 of peg-interferon/ribavirin treatment. Baseline 25(OH)D was measured by liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry. Compared with the non-EVR control group (n = 68), the EVR group (n = 76) was younger, had fewer cirrhotic subjects, had a higher proportion with the IL28B CC genotype, had a higher albumin concentration, and had a lower HCV viral load at baseline (P ≤ 0.05). The difference in baseline 25(OH)D concentrations between EVR and non-EVR patients was not statistically significant (median: 25 ng/mL compared with 20 ng/mL; P = 0.23). Similar results were found for sustained virologic response (SVR). In multivariable analysis, white and Hispanic race-ethnicity (OR: 6.26; 95% CI: 2.47, 15.88; P = 0.0001) and ritonavir use (OR: 2.68; 95% CI: 1.08, 6.65; P = 0.033) were associated with higher 25(OH)D concentrations (≥30 ng/mL). Baseline 25(OH)D concentrations did not predict EVR or SVR. Because ritonavir impairs the conversion of 25(OH)D to the active metabolite, utilization of 25(OH)D may have been impaired in subjects taking ritonavir. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00078403.

Recent Advances in Clinical Natural Language Processing in Support of Semantic Analysis.

PubMed

Velupillai, S; Mowery, D; South, B R; Kvist, M; Dalianis, H

2015-08-13

We present a review of recent advances in clinical Natural Language Processing (NLP), with a focus on semantic analysis and key subtasks that support such analysis. We conducted a literature review of clinical NLP research from 2008 to 2014, emphasizing recent publications (2012-2014), based on PubMed and ACL proceedings as well as relevant referenced publications from the included papers. Significant articles published within this time-span were included and are discussed from the perspective of semantic analysis. Three key clinical NLP subtasks that enable such analysis were identified: 1) developing more efficient methods for corpus creation (annotation and de-identification), 2) generating building blocks for extracting meaning (morphological, syntactic, and semantic subtasks), and 3) leveraging NLP for clinical utility (NLP applications and infrastructure for clinical use cases). Finally, we provide a reflection upon most recent developments and potential areas of future NLP development and applications. There has been an increase of advances within key NLP subtasks that support semantic analysis. Performance of NLP semantic analysis is, in many cases, close to that of agreement between humans. The creation and release of corpora annotated with complex semantic information models has greatly supported the development of new tools and approaches. Research on non-English languages is continuously growing. NLP methods have sometimes been successfully employed in real-world clinical tasks. However, there is still a gap between the development of advanced resources and their utilization in clinical settings. A plethora of new clinical use cases are emerging due to established health care initiatives and additional patient-generated sources through the extensive use of social media and other devices.

Recent Advances in Clinical Natural Language Processing in Support of Semantic Analysis

PubMed Central

Mowery, D.; South, B. R.; Kvist, M.; Dalianis, H.

2015-01-01

Summary Objectives We present a review of recent advances in clinical Natural Language Processing (NLP), with a focus on semantic analysis and key subtasks that support such analysis. Methods We conducted a literature review of clinical NLP research from 2008 to 2014, emphasizing recent publications (2012-2014), based on PubMed and ACL proceedings as well as relevant referenced publications from the included papers. Results Significant articles published within this time-span were included and are discussed from the perspective of semantic analysis. Three key clinical NLP subtasks that enable such analysis were identified: 1) developing more efficient methods for corpus creation (annotation and de-identification), 2) generating building blocks for extracting meaning (morphological, syntactic, and semantic subtasks), and 3) leveraging NLP for clinical utility (NLP applications and infrastructure for clinical use cases). Finally, we provide a reflection upon most recent developments and potential areas of future NLP development and applications. Conclusions There has been an increase of advances within key NLP subtasks that support semantic analysis. Performance of NLP semantic analysis is, in many cases, close to that of agreement between humans. The creation and release of corpora annotated with complex semantic information models has greatly supported the development of new tools and approaches. Research on non-English languages is continuously growing. NLP methods have sometimes been successfully employed in real-world clinical tasks. However, there is still a gap between the development of advanced resources and their utilization in clinical settings. A plethora of new clinical use cases are emerging due to established health care initiatives and additional patient-generated sources through the extensive use of social media and other devices. PMID:26293867

Sikorsky Aircraft Advanced Rotorcraft Transmission (ART) program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kish, Jules G.

1993-01-01

The objectives of the Advanced Rotorcraft Transmission program were to achieve a 25 percent weight reduction, a 10 dB noise reduction, and a 5,000 hour mean time between removals (MTBR). A three engine Army Cargo Aircraft (ACA) of 85,000 pounds gross weight was used as the baseline. Preliminary designs were conducted of split path and split torque transmissions to evaluate weight, reliability, and noise. A split path gearbox was determined to be 23 percent lighter, greater than 10 dB quieter, and almost four times more reliable than the baseline two stage planetary design. Detail design studies were conducted of the chosen split path configuration, and drawings were produced of a 1/2 size gearbox consisting of a single engine path of the split path section. Fabrication and testing was then conducted on the 1/2 size gearbox. The 1/2 size gearbox testing proved that the concept of the split path gearbox with high reduction ratio double helical output gear was sound. The improvements were attributed to extensive use of composites, spring clutches, advanced high hot hardness gear steels, the split path configuration itself, high reduction ratio, double helical gearing on the output stage, elastomeric load sharing devices, and elimination of accessory drives.

Changes in Hematology and Calcium Metabolism After Gastric Bypass Surgery--a 2-Year Follow-Up Study.

PubMed

Worm, Dorte; Madsbad, Sten; Kristiansen, Viggo B; Naver, Lars; Hansen, Dorte Lindqvist

2015-09-01

Concerns regarding nutritional deficiencies have recently emerged after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). A total of 835 subjects underwent RYGB, age 43.3 years, body mass index (BMI) 47.2 kg/m(2). Hematological and calcium metabolic variables were measured before, 6, 12, and 24 months after surgery. Daily supplement of 800 mg calcium, 800 U vitamin D, a multivitamin, and a vitamin B12 injection (1 mg) every third month was recommended. In subjects with low ferritin and decreasing hemoglobin levels, oral, or intravenous iron was administered. Hemoglobin concentration decreased from before surgery to month 24 for both men (9.3 ± 0.05 vs. 8.3 ± 0.08 mmol/L, p < 0.001) and women (8.4 ± 0.03 vs. 7.7 ± 0.06 mmol/L, p < 0.001). At 24 months, anemia was present in 25.8 % of women and 22.1 % of men. Predictors of anemia in both sexes were baseline hemoglobin (p < 0.001), excessive weight loss in men, and younger age in women (p < 0.001). Plasma ferritin levels decreased in both sexes (p < 0.01), whereas concentrations of folic acid and vitamin B12 increased from before surgery to 24 months after surgery (p < 0.001). Vitamin D increased from baseline to month 24 in both sexes (p < 0.01). In women, PTH increased from baseline to month 24 (p < 0.05) with no changes in calcium or magnesium. Supplementation of calcium and vitamin D was sufficient. Iron substitution did not prevent anemia, which especially affected premenopausal women. More attention should be given to iron substitution after RYGB.

Difference between observed and predicted glycated hemoglobin at baseline and treatment response to vildagliptin-based dual oral therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes.

PubMed

Wang, Jun-Sing; Hung, Yi-Jen; Lu, Yung-Chuan; Tsai, Cheng-Lin; Yang, Wei-Shiung; Lee, Ting-I; Hsiao, Ya-Chun; Sheu, Wayne Huey-Herng

2018-04-01

We aimed to investigate the association of difference between observed and predicted glycated hemoglobin (dopHbA1c) and HbA1c reduction after vildagliptin-based oral therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). This was a prospective observational study. Adults ≥ 20 years old with T2D and HbA1c ≧7% treated with oral anti-diabetic drugs (OADs) were eligible if their OADs were shifted to vildagliptin-based dual oral therapy. Fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and HbA1c were recorded at baseline, week 12, and week 24. To determine baseline dopHbA1c, a predicted HbA1c was calculated by inserting baseline FPG into a regression equation (HbA1c = FPG ∗ 0.0225 + 4.3806) developed from linear relationship between HbA1c and FPG in an independent cohort of 3239 outpatients with T2D (dopHbA1c = observed HbA1c - predicted HbA1c). Patients were assigned to low (≦0) or high (>0) dopHbA1c group according to their baseline dopHbA1c levels. The study endpoint was changes from baseline to week 24 in HbA1c levels. A total of 1224 patients were enrolled. Patients with a dopHbA1c >0 had a greater HbA1c reduction after vildagliptin-based dual oral therapy than those with a dopHbA1c ≦0 (-1.5 ± 2.0 vs. -0.4 ± 1.0%, p < 0.001). Baseline dopHbA1c was positively associated with HbA1c reduction from baseline to week 24 (β coefficient 0.883, 95% CI 0.811 to 0.955, p < 0.001), and the association remained significant after adjustment for confounders. In T2D patients with an HbA1c ≧7%, a higher baseline dopHbA1c was associated with a greater HbA1c reduction after shifting to vildagliptin-based dual oral therapy. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Cardiometabolic risk after weight loss and subsequent weight regain in overweight and obese postmenopausal women.

PubMed

Beavers, Daniel P; Beavers, Kristen M; Lyles, Mary F; Nicklas, Barbara J

2013-06-01

Little is known about the effect of intentional weight loss and subsequent weight regain on cardiometabolic risk factors in older adults. The objective of this study was to determine how cardiometabolic risk factors change in the year following significant intentional weight loss in postmenopausal women, and if observed changes were affected by weight and fat regain. Eighty, overweight and obese, older women (age = 58.8±5.1 years) were followed through a 5-month weight loss intervention and a subsequent 12-month nonintervention period. Body weight/composition and cardiometabolic risk factors (blood pressure; total, high-density lipoprotein, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol; triglycerides; fasting glucose and insulin; and Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance) were analyzed at baseline, immediately postintervention, and 6- and 12-months postintervention. Average weight loss during the 5-month intervention was 11.4±4.1kg and 31.4% of lost weight was regained during the 12-month follow-up. On average, all risk factor variables were significantly improved with weight loss but regressed toward baseline values during the year subsequent to weight loss. Increases in total cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose, insulin, and Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance during the postintervention follow-up were significantly (p < .05) associated with weight and fat mass regain. Among women who regained weight, model-adjusted total cholesterol (205.8±4.0 vs 199.7±2.9mg/dL), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (128.4±3.4 vs 122.7±2.4mg/dL), insulin (12.6±0.7 vs 11.4±0.7mg/dL), and Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (55.8±3.5 vs 50.9±3.7mg/dL) were higher at follow-up compared with baseline. For postmenopausal women, even partial weight regain following intentional weight loss is associated with increased cardiometabolic risk. Conversely, maintenance of or continued weight loss is associated with sustained improvement in the cardiometabolic profile.

Plasma trimethylamine-N-oxide following supplementation with vitamin D or D plus B vitamins.

PubMed

Obeid, Rima; Awwad, Hussain M; Kirsch, Susanne H; Waldura, Christiane; Herrmann, Wolfgang; Graeber, Stefan; Geisel, Juergen

2017-02-01

We compared the effect of supplementation with vitamin D + B or vitamin D on plasma trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) and choline metabolites. This is a randomized single-blinded nonplacebo-controlled study. Twenty-seven participants received 1200 IU vitamin D3 and 800 mg calcium, and 25 participants received additionally 0.5 mg folic acid, 50 mg B6, and 0.5 mg B12 for 1 year. Plasma homocysteine (Hcy), TMAO, and choline metabolites were measured at baseline and 12 months later. TMAO declined in the vitamin D arm by 0.5 versus 2.8 μmol/L in the D + B arm (p = 0.005). Hcy decreased and betaine increased in the D + B compared to the D arm. Within-subject levels of plasma choline and dimethylglycine and urine betaine increased in both arms and changes did not differ between the arms. TMAO reduction was predicted by higher baseline TMAO and lowering Hcy in stepwise regression analysis. The test-retest variations of TMAO were greater in the D + B arm compared to vitamin D arm. B vitamins plus vitamin D lowered plasma fasting TMAO compared to vitamin D. Vitamin D caused alterations in choline metabolism, which may reflect the metabolic flexibility of C1-metabolism. The molecular mechanisms and health implications of these changes are currently unknown. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Spatiotemporal and Kinematic Parameters Relating to Oriented Gait and Turn Performance in Patients with Chronic Stroke

PubMed Central

Bonnyaud, Céline; Pradon, Didier; Vuillerme, Nicolas; Bensmail, Djamel; Roche, Nicolas

2015-01-01

Background The timed up and go test (TUG) is a functional test which is increasingly used to evaluate patients with stroke. The outcome measured is usually global TUG performance-time. Assessment of spatiotemporal and kinematic parameters during the Oriented gait and Turn sub-tasks of the TUG would provide a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying patients’ performance and therefore may help to guide rehabilitation. The aim of this study was thus to determine the spatiotemporal and kinematic parameters which were most related to the walking and turning sub-tasks of TUG performance in stroke patients. Methods 29 stroke patients carried out the TUG test which was recorded using an optoelectronic system in two conditions: spontaneous and standardized condition (standardized foot position and instructed to turn towards the paretic side). They also underwent a clinical assessment. Stepwise regression was used to determine the parameters most related to Oriented gait and Turn sub-tasks. Relationships between explanatory parameters of Oriented gait and Turn performance and clinical scales were evaluated using Spearman correlations. Results Step length and cadence explained 82% to 95% of the variance for the walking sub-tasks in both conditions. Percentage single support phase and contralateral swing phase (depending on the condition) respectively explained 27% and 56% of the variance during the turning sub-task in the spontaneous and standardized conditions. Discussion and Conclusion Step length, cadence, percentage of paretic single support phase and non-paretic swing phase, as well as dynamic stability were the main parameters related to TUG performance and they should be targeted in rehabilitation. PMID:26091555

The EQ-5D-5L is a valid approach to measure health related quality of life in patients undergoing bariatric surgery.

PubMed

Fermont, Jilles M; Blazeby, Jane M; Rogers, Chris A; Wordsworth, Sarah

2017-01-01

Bariatric surgery is considered an effective treatment for individuals with severe and complex obesity. Besides reducing weight and improving obesity related comorbidities such as diabetes, bariatric surgery could improve patients' health-related quality of life. However, the frequently used instrument to measure quality of life, the EQ-5D has not been validated for use in bariatric surgery, which is a major limitation to its use in this clinical context. Our study undertook a psychometric validation of the 5 level EQ-5D (EQ-5D-5L) using clinical trial data to measure health-related quality of life in patients with severe and complex obesity undergoing bariatric surgery. Health-related quality of life was assessed at baseline (before randomisation) and six months later in 189 patients in a randomised controlled trial of bariatric surgery. Patients completed two generic health-related quality of life instruments, the EQ-5D-5L and SF-12, which were used together for the validation using data from all patients in the trial as the trial is ongoing. Psychometric analyses included construct and criterion validity and responsiveness to change. Of the 189 validation patients, 141 (75%) were female, the median age was 49 years old (range 23-70 years) and body mass index ranged from 33-70 kg/m2. For construct validity, there were significant improvements in the distribution of responses in all EQ-5D dimensions between baseline and 6 months after randomisation. For criterion validity, the highest degree of correlation was between the EQ-5D pain/discomfort and SF-12 bodily pain domain. For responsiveness the EQ-5D and SF-12 showed statistically significant improvements in health-related quality of life between baseline and 6 months after randomisation. The EQ-5D-5L is a valid generic measure for measuring health-related quality of life in bariatric surgery patients.

Baseline [(18)F]FMISO μPET as a Predictive Biomarker for Response to HIF-1α Inhibition Combined with 5-FU Chemotherapy in a Human Colorectal Cancer Xenograft Model.

PubMed

De Bruycker, Sven; Vangestel, Christel; Van den Wyngaert, Tim; Wyffels, Leonie; Wouters, An; Pauwels, Patrick; Staelens, Steven; Stroobants, Sigrid

2016-08-01

The purpose of this study was to characterize imaging biomarkers for the potential benefit of hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1)α inhibition (by PX-12) during 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) chemotherapy in the treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC). Therapy response to 5-FU ± PX-12 was assessed with baseline [(18)F]fluoromisonidazole ([(18)F]FMISO) and longitudinal 2-deoxy-2-[(18)F]fluoro-D-glucose ([(18)F]FDG) positron emission computed tomography (μPET/CT) in CRC xenograft model (n = 36) during breathing of a hypoxic (10 % O2) or normoxic (21 % O2) atmosphere. Ex vivo, immunohistochemistry was performed. Baseline [(18)F]FMISO uptake and relative tumor volume (RTV) 2 days after 5-FU or 5-FU + PX-12 administration correlated significantly (p ≤ 0.01). Under hypoxic breathing conditions, [(18)F]FDG uptake (-53.1 ± 8.4 %) and Ki67 expression (-16 %) decreased and RTV stagnated in the 5-FU + PX-12 treatment group, but not in 5-FU alone-treated tumors. Under normoxic breathing, [(18)F]FDG uptake (-23.5 ± 15.2 % and -72.8 ± 7.1 %) and Ki67 expression (-5 % and -19 %) decreased and RTV stagnated in both the 5-FU and the combination treatment group, respectively. Baseline [(18)F]FMISO μPET may predict the beneficial effect of HIF-1α inhibition during 5-FU chemotherapy in CRC.

A Response Surface Methodology for Bi-Level Integrated System Synthesis (BLISS)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Altus, Troy David; Sobieski, Jaroslaw (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

The report describes a new method for optimization of engineering systems such as aerospace vehicles whose design must harmonize a number of subsystems and various physical phenomena, each represented by a separate computer code, e.g., aerodynamics, structures, propulsion, performance, etc. To represent the system internal couplings, the codes receive output from other codes as part of their inputs. The system analysis and optimization task is decomposed into subtasks that can be executed concurrently, each subtask conducted using local state and design variables and holding constant a set of the system-level design variables. The subtasks results are stored in form of the Response Surfaces (RS) fitted in the space of the system-level variables to be used as the subtask surrogates in a system-level optimization whose purpose is to optimize the system objective(s) and to reconcile the system internal couplings. By virtue of decomposition and execution concurrency, the method enables a broad workfront in organization of an engineering project involving a number of specialty groups that might be geographically dispersed, and it exploits the contemporary computing technology of massively concurrent and distributed processing. The report includes a demonstration test case of supersonic business jet design.

Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) GIG Convergence Master Plan 2012 (GCMP 2012). Volume 1

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-08-02

mapping, the complete DISA technical baseline, and the GIG Technical Guidance ( GTG ). The Department of Defense (DoD), as part of its IT Effectiveness...Guidance ( GTG ) to guide their development of service offerings, which are added to the technical baseline when approved by the CEP. 1.2. Background...corresponding hyperlinks; the complete set of GTPs is called the GIG Technical Guidance ( GTG ). These appendices also contain linkages between the GCMP

Longitudinal predictive ability of mapping models: examining post-intervention EQ-5D utilities derived from baseline MHAQ data in rheumatoid arthritis patients.

PubMed

Kontodimopoulos, Nick; Bozios, Panagiotis; Yfantopoulos, John; Niakas, Dimitris

2013-04-01

The purpose of this methodological study was to to provide insight into the under-addressed issue of the longitudinal predictive ability of mapping models. Post-intervention predicted and reported utilities were compared, and the effect of disease severity on the observed differences was examined. A cohort of 120 rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients (60.0% female, mean age 59.0) embarking on therapy with biological agents completed the Modified Health Assessment Questionnaire (MHAQ) and the EQ-5D at baseline, and at 3, 6 and 12 months post-intervention. OLS regression produced a mapping equation to estimate post-intervention EQ-5D utilities from baseline MHAQ data. Predicted and reported utilities were compared with t test, and the prediction error was modeled, using fixed effects, in terms of covariates such as age, gender, time, disease duration, treatment, RF, DAS28 score, predicted and reported EQ-5D. The OLS model (RMSE = 0.207, R(2) = 45.2%) consistently underestimated future utilities, with a mean prediction error of 6.5%. Mean absolute differences between reported and predicted EQ-5D utilities at 3, 6 and 12 months exceeded the typically reported MID of the EQ-5D (0.03). According to the fixed-effects model, time, lower predicted EQ-5D and higher DAS28 scores had a significant impact on prediction errors, which appeared increasingly negative for lower reported EQ-5D scores, i.e., predicted utilities tended to be lower than reported ones in more severe health states. This study builds upon existing research having demonstrated the potential usefulness of mapping disease-specific instruments onto utility measures. The specific issue of longitudinal validity is addressed, as mapping models derived from baseline patients need to be validated on post-therapy samples. The underestimation of post-treatment utilities in the present study, at least in more severe patients, warrants further research before it is prudent to conduct cost-utility analyses in the context of RA by means of the MHAQ alone.

BUILDING MATERIALS RECLAMATION PROGRAM

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

David C. Weggel; Shen-En Chen; Helene Hilger

2010-08-31

This report describes work conducted on the Building Materials Reclamation Program for the period of September 2008 to August 2010. The goals of the project included selecting materials from the local construction and demolition (C&D) waste stream and developing economically viable reprocessing, reuse or recycling schemes to divert them from landfill storage. Educational resources as well as conceptual designs and engineering feasibility demonstrations were provided for various aspects of the work. The project was divided into two distinct phases: Research and Engineering Feasibility and Dissemination. In the Research Phase, a literature review was initiated and data collection commenced, an advisorymore » panel was organized, and research was conducted to evaluate high volume C&D materials for nontraditional use; five materials were selected for more detailed investigations. In the Engineering Feasibility and Dissemination Phase, a conceptual study for a regional (Mecklenburg and surrounding counties) collection and sorting facility was performed, an engineering feasibility project to demonstrate the viability of recycling or reuse schemes was created, the literature review was extended and completed, and pedagogical materials were developed. Over the two-year duration of the project, all of the tasks and subtasks outlined in the original project proposal have been completed. The Final Progress Report, which briefly describes actual project accomplishments versus the tasks/subtasks of the original project proposal, is included in Appendix A of this report. This report describes the scientific/technical aspects (hypotheses, research/testing, and findings) of six subprojects that investigated five common C&D materials. Table 1 summarizes the six subprojects, including the C&D material studied and the graduate student and the faculty advisor on each subproject.« less

Quality of Life During Treatment With Chemohormonal Therapy: Analysis of E3805 Chemohormonal Androgen Ablation Randomized Trial in Prostate Cancer.

PubMed

Morgans, Alicia K; Chen, Yu-Hui; Sweeney, Christopher J; Jarrard, David F; Plimack, Elizabeth R; Gartrell, Benjamin A; Carducci, Michael A; Hussain, Maha; Garcia, Jorge A; Cella, David; DiPaola, Robert S; Patrick-Miller, Linda J

2018-04-10

Purpose Chemohormonal therapy with docetaxel and androgen deprivation therapy (ADT+D) for metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer improves overall survival as compared with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) alone. We compared the quality of life (QOL) between patients with metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer who were treated with ADT+D and those who were treated with ADT alone. Methods Men were randomly assigned to ADT+ D (six cycles) or to ADT alone. QOL was assessed by Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Prostate (FACT-P), FACT-Taxane, Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue, and the Brief Pain Inventory at baseline and at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. The Wilcoxon signed rank test was used to examine changes over time. Mixed-effect models compared the QOL between arms at each time point. Results Seven hundred ninety men were randomly assigned (ADT+D [n = 397] and ADT[ n = 393]) and completed FACT-P (90% at baseline, 86% at 3 months, 83% at 6 months, 78% at 9 months, and 77% at 12 months). ADT+D patients reported a statistically significant decline in FACT-P at 3 months ( P < .001) but FACT-P did not differ significantly between baseline and 12 months ( P = .38). ADT+D FACT-P scores were significantly lower at 3 months ( P = .02) but significantly higher at 12 months ( P = .04) when compared with ADT FACT-P scores. Differences did not exceed the minimal clinically important difference at any time point. ADT+D patients reported significantly lower Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue scores at 3 months than did ADT patients ( P < .001). Over time, both arms reported significantly poorer FACT-Taxane scores ( P < .001) when compared with baseline. Brief Pain Inventory scores were similar between arms. Conclusion Although ADT+D was associated with statistically worse QOL at 3 months, QOL was better at 12 months for ADT+D patients than for ADT patients. Both arms reported a similar minimally changed QOL over time, suggesting that ADT+D is not associated with a greater long-term negative impact on QOL.

SUBTASK 6.1 – STRATEGIC STUDIES

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

Erickson, Thomas; Harju, John; Steadman, Edward

The Energy & Environmental Research Center (EERC) has recently completed 7 years of research through the Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL) focused on fossil energy technology development and demonstration. To support a significant number of the different activities being considered within all of our research contracts with NETL, a subtask (6.1 – Strategic Studies) was created to focus on small research efforts that came up throughout the year that would support an existing EERC–NETL project or would help to develop a new concept for inclusion in future efforts. This subtask wasmore » funded through the EERC–DOE Joint Program on Research and Development for Fossil Energy-Related Resources Cooperative Agreement No. DE-FC26- 08NT43291« less

Ivacaftor and symptoms of extra-oesophageal reflux in patients with cystic fibrosis and G551D mutation.

PubMed

Zeybel, Gemma L; Pearson, Jeffrey P; Krishnan, Amaran; Bourke, Stephen J; Doe, Simon; Anderson, Alan; Faruqi, Shoaib; Morice, Alyn H; Jones, Rhys; McDonnell, Melissa; Zeybel, Mujdat; Dettmar, Peter W; Brodlie, Malcolm; Ward, Chris

2017-01-01

Extra-oesophageal reflux (EOR) may lead to microaspiration in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF), a probable cause of deteriorating lung function. Successful clinical trials of ivacaftor highlight opportunities to understand EOR in a real world study. Data from 12 patients with CF and the G551D mutation prescribed ivacaftor (150mg bd) was collected at baseline, 6, 26 and 52weeks. The changes in symptoms of EOR were assessed by questionnaire (reflux symptom index (RSI) and Hull airway reflux questionnaire (HARQ)). Six patients presented EOR at baseline (RSI >13; median 13; range 2-29) and 5 presented airway reflux (HARQ >13; median 12; range 3 to 33). Treatment with ivacaftor was associated with a significant reduction of EOR symptoms (P<0∙04 versus baseline) denoted by the reflux symptom index and Hull airway reflux questionnaire. Ivacaftor treatment was beneficial for patients with symptoms of EOR, thought to be a precursor to microaspiration. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effects of Yoga on Attention, Impulsivity, and Hyperactivity in Preschool-Aged Children with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Symptoms.

PubMed

Cohen, Samantha C L; Harvey, Danielle J; Shields, Rebecca H; Shields, Grant S; Rashedi, Roxanne N; Tancredi, Daniel J; Angkustsiri, Kathleen; Hansen, Robin L; Schweitzer, Julie B

2018-04-01

Behavioral therapies are first-line for preschoolers with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Studies support yoga for school-aged children with ADHD; this study evaluated yoga in preschoolers on parent- and teacher-rated attention/challenging behaviors, attentional control (Kinder Test of Attentional Performance [KiTAP]), and heart rate variability (HRV). This randomized waitlist-controlled trial tested a 6-week yoga intervention in preschoolers with ≥4 ADHD symptoms on the ADHD Rating Scale-IV Preschool Version. Group 1 (n = 12) practiced yoga first; Group 2 (n = 11) practiced yoga second. We collected data at 4 time points: baseline, T1 (6 weeks), T2 (12 weeks), and follow-up (3 months after T2). At baseline, there were no significant differences between groups. At T1, Group 1 had faster reaction times on the KiTAP go/no-go task (p = 0.01, 95% confidence interval [CI], -371.1 to -59.1, d = -1.7), fewer distractibility errors of omission (p = 0.009, 95% CI, -14.2 to -2.3, d = -1.5), and more commission errors (p = 0.02, 95% CI, 1.4-14.8, d = 1.3) than Group 2. Children in Group 1 with more severe symptoms at baseline showed improvement at T1 versus control on parent-rated Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire hyperactivity inattention (β = -2.1, p = 0.04, 95% CI, -4.0 to -0.1) and inattention on the ADHD Rating Scale (β = -4.4, p = 0.02, 95% CI, -7.9 to -0.9). HRV measures did not differ between groups. Yoga was associated with modest improvements on an objective measure of attention (KiTAP) and selective improvements on parent ratings.

Effects of vitamin D and calcium supplementation on side effects profile in patients of breast cancer treated with letrozole.

PubMed

Arul Vijaya Vani, S; Ananthanarayanan, P H; Kadambari, D; Harichandrakumar, K T; Niranjjan, R; Nandeesha, H

2016-08-01

Vitamin D deficiency (<10ng/mL) and insufficiency (10-30ng/mL) may contribute to musculoskeletal symptoms observed in patients taking letrozole. This study was undertaken to assess the vitamin D status in breast cancer patients who received letrozole for >2months and to see the effects of vitamin D3 and calcium supplementation on them. Eighty-two breast cancer patients were included. Baseline serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D concentrations were assayed and standard questionnaire was completed. They were given vitamin D3 and calcium supplementation (2000IU/1000 mg and 4000IU/1000mg) based on their baseline serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D concentration for 12weeks. Baseline serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D concentrations showed that 13.4% of patients were deficient and 73.2% of patients were insufficient in 25-hydroxy vitamin D. There was an increase in the concentrations of calcium, phosphorus and decrease in the concentrations of parathyroid hormone, alkaline phosphatase as the concentration of serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D increases. Patients who received letrozole for a longer duration had a low concentration of serum 25 (OH) vitamin D. Vitamin D3 and calcium supplementation increased the concentrations of calcium, phosphorous and decreased the concentrations of parathyroid hormone and alkaline phosphatase. Patients who had low serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D concentrations had more musculoskeletal symptoms which was improved following supplementation (9.14 vs 8.10 p=0.000). Vitamin D3 supplementation significantly improved serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D concentrations and decreased letrozole-induced arthralgia. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Review of potential EGS sites and possible EGS demonstration scenarios

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

None

1999-09-01

Review of potential sites for Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) and development of reference scenarios for EGS demonstration projects are two sub-tasks included in the FY 1999 EGS Research and Development (R&D) Management Task (DOE Task Order Number DE-AT07-99ID60365, included in the Appendix of this report). These sub-tasks are consistent with the EGS Strategic Plan, which includes milestones relating to EGS site selection (Milestone 4, to be completed in 2004) and development of a cost-shared, pilot-scale demonstration project (Milestone 5, to be completed in 2008). The purpose of the present work is to provide some reference points for discussing what typemore » of EGS projects might be undertaken, where they might be located, and what the associated benefits are likely to be. The review of potential EGS sites is presented in Chapter 2 of this report. It draws upon site-selection criteria (and potential project sites that were identified using those criteria) developed at a mini-workshop held at the April 1998 DOE Geothermal Program Review to discuss EGS R&D issues. The criteria and the sites were the focus of a paper presented at the 4th International Hot Dry Rock Forum in Strasbourg in September 1998 (Sass and Robertson-Tait, 1998). The selection criteria, project sites and possible EGS developments discussed in the workshop and paper are described in more detail herein. Input from geothermal operators is incorporated, and water availability and transmission-line access are emphasized. The reference scenarios for EGS demonstration projects are presented in Chapter 3. Three alternative scenarios are discussed: (1) a stand-alone demonstration plant in an area with no existing geothermal development; (2) a separate generating facility adjacent to an existing geothermal development; and (3) an EGS project that supplies an existing geothermal power plant with additional generating capacity. Furthermore, information potentially useful to DOE in framing solicitations and selecting projects for funding is discussed objectively. Although defined as separate sub-tasks, the EGS site review and reference scenarios are closely related. The incremental approach to EGS development that has recently been adopted could logically be expected to yield proposals for studies that lead up to and include production-enhancement experiments in producing geothermal fields in the very near future. However, the strategic plan clearly calls for the development of a more comprehensive demonstration project that can generate up to perhaps 10 MW (gross). It is anticipated that a series of small-scale experiments will define what realistically may be achieved in the near future, thus setting the stage for a successful pilot demonstration. This report continues the process of presenting information on EGS sites and experiments, and begins the process of defining what a demonstration project might be.« less

FINAL TECHNICAL REPORT FOR FORESTRY BIOFUEL STATEWIDE COLLABORATION CENTER (MICHIGAN)

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

LaCourt, Donna M.; Miller, Raymond O.; Shonnard, David R.

A team composed of scientists from Michigan State University (MSU) and Michigan Technological University (MTU) assembled to better understand, document, and improve systems for using forest-based biomass feedstocks in the production of energy products within Michigan. Work was funded by a grant (DE-EE-0000280) from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and was administered by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). The goal of the project was to improve the forest feedstock supply infrastructure to sustainably provide woody biomass for biofuel production in Michigan over the long-term. Work was divided into four broad areas with associated objectives: • TASK A: Developmore » a Forest-Based Biomass Assessment for Michigan – Define forest-based feedstock inventory, availability, and the potential of forest-based feedstock to support state and federal renewable energy goals while maintaining current uses. • TASK B: Improve Harvesting, Processing and Transportation Systems – Identify and develop cost, energy, and carbon efficient harvesting, processing and transportation systems. • TASK C: Improve Forest Feedstock Productivity and Sustainability – Identify and develop sustainable feedstock production systems through the establishment and monitoring of a statewide network of field trials in forests and energy plantations. • TASK D: Engage Stakeholders – Increase understanding of forest biomass production systems for biofuels by a broad range of stakeholders. The goal and objectives of this research and development project were fulfilled with key model deliverables including: 1) The Forest Biomass Inventory System (Sub-task A1) of feedstock inventory and availability and, 2) The Supply Chain Model (Sub-task B2). Both models are vital to Michigan’s forest biomass industry and support forecasting delivered cost, as well as carbon and energy balance. All of these elements are important to facilitate investor, operational and policy decisions. All other sub-tasks supported the development of these two tools either directly or by building out supporting information in the forest biomass supply chain. Outreach efforts have, and are continuing to get these user friendly models and information to decision makers to support biomass feedstock supply chain decisions across the areas of biomass inventory and availability, procurement, harvest, forwarding, transportation and processing. Outreach will continue on the project website at http://www.michiganforestbiofuels.org/ and http://www.michiganwoodbiofuels.org/« less

Different antidiabetic regimens and the development of renal dysfunction in US Veterans with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Gosmanova, Elvira O; Canada, Robert B; Wan, Jim; Mangold, Therese A; Wall, Barry M

2012-10-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the development of renal dysfunction in veterans with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) treated with different antidiabetic regimens. A retrospective cohort study involving 1715 patients with T2DM and baseline serum creatinine (SCr) of 1.5 mg/dL or lesser. The development of renal dysfunction, defined as 0.5 mg/dL or greater increase from baseline SCr during 4.8 years of follow-up with monotherapy metformin (M), 2 combination therapy groups: metformin + insulin (MI) and metformin + sulfonylurea (MS) users were compared with changes observed in sulfonylurea monotherapy users (S). Both MI and MS groups had higher mean baseline hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) (9.0 and 8.6%, respectively) and higher rates of baseline macroalbuminuria (17.3 and 12.1%, respectively) as compared with M and S groups (mean HbA1C7.7% in both groups, and proteinuria M-5.1% and S-7.4%). In unadjusted analysis, the development of renal dysfunction was more frequent in MI and MS but not in M group as compared with sulfonylurea monotherapy (unadjusted HRs and [95% confidence interval (CI), 2.1[1.4-3.0], 1.4[1.1-1.9], and 1.0[0.6-1.7], respectively). However, differences in the development of renal dysfunction were not significant between the 4 groups after adjusting for baseline variables. Baseline macroalbuminuria was a strong predictor of Scr elevation of 0.5 mg/dL or greater during follow-up (adjusted HR, 3.1[1.9-4.7]). Unexpectedly, baseline use of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system blockers was also associated with the development of renal dysfunction (adjusted HR, 1.9[1.3-2.8]). In this retrospective cohort study involving US predominantly male veterans with T2DM, baseline macroalbuminuria and use of RAAS blockers were associated with increased risk of development of renal dysfunction, whereas different antidiabetic regimens were not.

Smart roadside initiative gap analysis : trucking technology utilization.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2014-04-01

This technical memorandum synthesizes and summarizes the American Transportation Research Institutes (ATRI) findings for Subtask 2.3 of the Smart Roadside Initiative (SRI) Gap Analysis. As part of this task, ATRI: 1. completed a technical literatu...

Advanced in-duct sorbent injection for SO{sub 2} control. Topical report No. 2, Subtask 2.2: Design optimization

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

Rosenhoover, W.A.; Stouffer, M.R.; Withum, J.A.

1994-12-01

The objective of this research project is to develop second-generation duct injection technology as a cost-effective SO{sub 2} control option for the 1990 Clean Air Act Amendments. Research is focused on the Advanced Coolside process, which has shown the potential for achieving the performance targets of 90% SO{sub 2} removal and 60% sorbent utilization. In Subtask 2.2, Design Optimization, process improvement was sought by optimizing sorbent recycle and by optimizing process equipment for reduced cost. The pilot plant recycle testing showed that 90% SO{sub 2} removal could be achieved at sorbent utilizations up to 75%. This testing also showed thatmore » the Advanced Coolside process has the potential to achieve very high removal efficiency (90 to greater than 99%). Two alternative contactor designs were developed, tested and optimized through pilot plant testing; the improved designs will reduce process costs significantly, while maintaining operability and performance essential to the process. Also, sorbent recycle handling equipment was optimized to reduce cost.« less

A Randomized Trial of Vitamin D3 Supplementation in Children: Dose-Response Effects on Vitamin D Metabolites and Calcium Absorption

PubMed Central

Laing, E. M.; Hill Gallant, K. M.; Hall, D. B.; McCabe, G. P.; Hausman, D. B.; Martin, B. R.; Warden, S. J.; Peacock, M.; Weaver, C. M.

2013-01-01

Context: Changes in serum vitamin D metabolites and calcium absorption with varying doses of oral vitamin D3 in healthy children are unknown. Objective: Our objective was to examine the dose-response effects of supplemental vitamin D3 on serum vitamin D metabolites and calcium absorption in children living at two U.S. latitudes. Design: Black and white children (n = 323) participated in a multisite (U.S. latitudes 34° N and 40° N), triple-masked trial. Children were randomized to receive oral vitamin D3 (0, 400, 1000, 2000, and 4000 IU/d) and were sampled over 12 weeks in winter. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25(OH)2D) were measured using RIA and intact PTH (iPTH) by immunoradiometric assay. Fractional calcium absorption was determined from an oral stable isotope 44Ca (5 mg) in a 150-mg calcium meal. Nonlinear and linear regression models were fit for vitamin D metabolites, iPTH, and calcium absorption. Results: The mean baseline 25(OH)D value for the entire sample was 70.0 nmol/L. Increases in 25(OH)D depended on dose with 12-week changes ranging from −10 nmol/L for placebo to 76 nmol/L for 4000 IU. Larger 25(OH)D gains were observed for whites vs blacks at the highest dose (P < .01). Gains for 1,25(OH)2D were not significant (P = .07), and decreases in iPTH were not dose-dependent. There was no dose effect of vitamin D on fractional calcium absorption when adjusted for pill compliance, race, sex, or baseline 25(OH)D. Conclusion: Large increases in serum 25(OH)D with vitamin D3 supplementation did not increase calcium absorption in healthy children living at 2 different latitudes. Supplementation with 400 IU/d was sufficient to maintain wintertime 25(OH)D concentrations in healthy black, but not white, children. PMID:24092833

Engineering and Physics Optimization of Breed and Burn Fast Reactor Systems; NUCLEAR ENERGY RESEARCH INITIATIVE (NERI) QUARTERLY PROGRESS REPORT

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

Pavel Hejzlar, Peter Yarsky, Mike Driscoll, Dan Wachs, Kevan Weaver, Ken Czerwinski, Mike Pope, James Parry, Theron D. Marshall, Cliff B. Davis, Dustin Crawford, Thomas Hartmann, Pradip Saha; Hejzlar, Pavel; Yarsky, Peter

2005-01-31

This project is organized under four major tasks (each of which has two or more subtasks) with contributions among the three collaborating organizations (MIT, INEEL and ANL-West): Task A: Core Physics and Fuel Cycle; Task B: Core Thermal Hydraulics; Task C: Plant Design; Task D: Fuel Design The lead PI, Michael J. Driscoll, has consolidated and summarized the technical progress submissions provided by the contributing investigators from all sites, under the above principal task headings.

A Multidisciplinary Approach to Study the Role of the Gut Microbiome in Relapsing and Progressive MS

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-10-01

AWARD NUMBER: W81XWH-15-1-0654 TITLE: A Multidisciplinary Approach to Study the Role of the Gut Microbiome in Relapsing and Progressive MS...Multidisciplinary Approach to Study the Role of the Gut Microbiome in Relapsing and Progressive MS 5c. PROGRAM ELEMENT NUMBER 6. AUTHOR(S) 5d. PROJECT...Major Tasks and subtasks: Aim#1: To compare the gut microbiome of subjects with RMS and PPMS. Major Task 1: To seek and obtain HRPO approval Major

A Multidisciplinary Approach to Study the Role of the Gut Microbiome in Relapsing and Progressive MS

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-10-01

AWARD NUMBER: W81XWH-15-1-0652 TITLE: A Multidisciplinary Approach to Study the Role of the Gut Microbiome in Relapsing and Progressive MS...0652 A Multidisciplinary Approach to Study the Role of the Gut Microbiome in Relapsing and Progressive MS 5c. PROGRAM ELEMENT NUMBER 6. AUTHOR(S) 5d...SOW, each Aim was subdivided into Major Tasks and subtasks: Aim#1: To compare the gut microbiome of subjects with RMS and PPMS. Major Task 1

Manufacturing Technology Support (MATES II) Task Order 0005: Manufacturing Integration and Technology Evaluation to Enable Technology Transition. Subtask Phase 0 Study Task: Manufacturing Technology (ManTech) and Systems Engineering For Quick Reaction Systems

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-10-01

Porosity from gas entrapment & shrinkage 4 Continuous Fiber Ti Metal Matrix Composites (Aircraft panels and rotor components) [14...process models for casting, forging, and welding , and software capability to integrate various independent models with design, thermal, and structural...Applications, Ph.D. Thesis, Queen’s College, University of Oxford, (2007). 14. S.A. Singerman and J.J. Jackson, Titanium Metal Matrix Composites for

Propulsion and Power Rapid Response Research and Development (R&D) Support. Delivery Order 0011: Advanced Propulsion Fuels Research and Development-Subtask: Framework and Guidance for Estimating Greenhouse Gas Footprints of Aviation Fuels

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-04-01

Uncertainties, Gaps , and Issues for the Use of GWP to Examine Emissions From Aviation That Impact Global Climate Change. (Wuebbles, Yang and Herman 2008...selecting time periods and spatial scales for data gathering, strategies for filling data gaps , and computational considerations for managing the...Fuels Assumptions, methodological choices, strategies for filling data gaps , and other factors throughout the life cycle substantially influence the

Effect of dietary aspartame on plasma concentrations of phenylalanine and tyrosine in normal and homozygous phenylketonuric patients.

PubMed

Mackey, S A; Berlin, C M

1992-07-01

Six normal subjects each ingested a single 12-oz can of a diet cola (Diet Coke) providing 184 mg aspartame (APM), of which 104 mg is phenylalanine (Phe), and, on another occasion, a single 12-oz can of regular cola (Coke Classic). Neither cola significantly affected plasma concentrations of Phe or tyrosine over the three-hour postingestion study period. Each of five homozygous phenylketonuric (PKU) subjects (ages 11, 16, 17, 21, and 23 years) ingested a single 12-oz can of the same diet cola. In these five subjects (three with classic PKU and two with hyperphenylalinemia), the increase in plasma Phe concentrations varied from 0.26 mg/dL to 1.77 mg/dL two or three hours after ingestion (baseline levels, 5.04 to 17.2 mg/dL). Tyrosine concentrations did not differ significantly from baseline levels. The data indicate that ingestion of dietary Phe, as supplied in a single can of diet cola, is readily handled in both normal and PKU subjects. The small increases in plasma Phe concentrations in the homozygous PKU patients are not considered clinically significant.

Hypoglycemia After Initiation of Basal Insulin in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes in the United States: Implications for Treatment Discontinuation and Healthcare Costs and Utilization.

PubMed

Dalal, Mehul R; Kazemi, Mahmood; Ye, Fen; Xie, Lin

2017-09-01

Hypoglycemia and fear of hypoglycemia may contribute to basal insulin discontinuation, poor glycemic control, and increased healthcare burden in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). This study aimed to determine the impact of hypoglycemia soon after basal insulin initiation on treatment discontinuation and economic outcomes in patients with T2D. Hypoglycemic events within 6 months of basal insulin initiation were identified using retrospective cohort data from patients with T2D, at least 18 years of age, initiated on basal insulin therapy in the Clinformatics™ Data Mart for Multiplan claims database from January 1, 2008, through August 31, 2012. Data were adjusted for baseline characteristics. Discontinuation was established for patients with 12-month follow-up data, while discontinuation risk was assessed in the extended analysis (6- to 24-month follow-up) by Cox regression analysis. Healthcare use and costs were determined. Of 55,608 patients, 4.5% experienced hypoglycemia within 6 months of basal insulin initiation. Patients with hypoglycemia were more likely to discontinue basal insulin within 12 months of initiation (79.0% vs. 74.2%; P < 0.001). Data, adjusted for baseline characteristics such as age, any baseline hypoglycemia, and use of oral antidiabetes drugs, showed that patients with hypoglycemia had a greater risk of discontinuation (hazard ratio 1.16; 95% confidence interval 1.03, 1.32; P = 0.0164), were more likely to have a hospitalization (41.0% vs. 24.3%; P < 0.001) or an ED visit (55.8% vs. 35.1%; P < 0.001), and had higher diabetes-related ($13,662 vs. $7506; P < 0.001) and all-cause ($30,719 vs. $19,079; P < 0.001) healthcare costs. US patients with T2D who experienced hypoglycemia within 6 months of basal insulin initiation were more likely to discontinue treatment, accompanied by a greater healthcare burden. Sanofi US, Inc.

Multinutrient-fortified juices improve vitamin D and vitamin E status in children: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Economos, Christina D; Moore, Carolyn E; Hyatt, Raymond R; Kuder, Julia; Chen, Tai; Meydani, Simin Nikbin; Meydani, Mohsen; Klein, Ellen; Biancuzzo, Rachael M; Holick, Michael F

2014-05-01

Provision of fortified juices may provide a convenient method to maintain and increase blood fat-soluble vitamins. To determine whether children consuming orange juice fortified with calcium and combinations of vitamins D, E, and A could increase serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D], α-tocopherol, and retinol levels. A 12-week randomized, double-blind, controlled trial. One hundred eighty participants (aged 8.04±1.42 years) were recruited at Tufts (n=70) and Boston University (n=110) during 2005-2006. Of those recruited, 176 children were randomized into three groups: CaD (700 mg calcium+200 IU vitamin D), CaDEA (700 mg calcium+200 IU vitamin D+12 IU vitamin E+2,000 IU vitamin A as beta carotene), or Ca (700 mg calcium). Children consumed two 240-mL glasses of CaD, CaDEA, or Ca fortified orange juice daily for 12 weeks. Serum 25(OH)D, α-tocopherol, and retinol concentrations. Changes in 25(OH)D, α-tocopherol, retinol, and parathyroid hormone concentrations were examined. Covariates included sex, age, race/ethnicity, body mass index, and baseline 25(OH)D, α-tocopherol, retinol, or parathyroid hormone levels. Multivariate models and repeated measures analysis of variance tested for group differences with pre-post measures (n=141). Baseline 25(OH)D was 68.4±27.7 nmol/L (27.4±11.10 ng/mL) ), with 21.7% of participants having inadequate 25(OH)D (<50 nmol/L [20.03 ng/mL]). The CaD group's 25(OH)D increase was greater than that of the Ca group (12.7 nmol/L [5.09 ng/mL], 95% CI 1.3 to 24.1; P=0.029). The CaDEA group's increase in α-tocopherol concentration was greater than that in the Ca or CaD groups (3.79 μmol/L [0.16 μg/mL], 95% CI 2.5 to 5.1 and 3.09 μmol/L [0.13 μg/mL], 95% CI -1.8 to 4.3), respectively (P<0.0001). Retinol levels did not change, and body weight remained as expected for growth. Daily consumption of orange juice providing 200 IU vitamin D and 12 IU vitamin E increased 25(OH)D and α-tocopherol concentrations in young children within 12 weeks. Copyright © 2014 Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Intracoronary Gene Transfer of Adenylyl Cyclase 6 in Patients With Heart Failure

PubMed Central

Hammond, H. Kirk; Penny, William F.; Traverse, Jay H.; Henry, Timothy D.; Watkins, Matthew W.; Yancy, Clyde W.; Sweis, Ranya N.; Adler, Eric D.; Patel, Amit N.; Murray, David R.; Ross, Robert S.; Bhargava, Valmik; Maisel, Alan; Barnard, Denise D.; Lai, N. Chin; Dalton, Nancy D.; Lee, Martin L.; Narayan, Sanjiv M.; Blanchard, Daniel G.; Gao, Mei Hua

2017-01-01

Importance Gene transfer has rarely been tested in randomized clinical trials. Objective To evaluate the safety and efficacy of intracoronary delivery of adenovirus 5 encoding adenylyl cyclase 6 (Ad5.hAC6) in heart failure. Design, Setting, and Participants A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 2 clinical trial was conducted in US medical centers (randomization occurred from July 19, 2010, to October 30, 2014). Participants 18 to 80 years with symptomatic heart failure (ischemic and nonischemic) and an ejection fraction (EF) of 40% or less were screened; 86 individuals were enrolled, and 56 were randomized. Data analysis was of the intention-to-treat population. Participants underwent exercise testing and measurement of left ventricular EF (echocardiography) and then cardiac catheterization, where left ventricular pressure development (+dP/dt)and decline (−dP/dt) were recorded. Participants were randomized (3:1 ratio) to receive 1 of 5 doses of intracoronary Ad5.hAC6 or placebo. Participants underwent a second catheterization 4 weeks later for measurement of dP/dt. Exercise testing and EF were assessed 4 and 12 weeks after randomization. Interventions Intracoronary administration of Ad5.hAC6 (3.2 × 109 to 1012 virus particles) or placebo. Main Outcomes and Measures Primary end points included exercise duration and EF before and 4 and 12 weeks after randomization and peak rates of +dP/dt and −dP/dt before and 4 weeks after randomization. Fourteen placebo participants were compared (intention to treat) with 24 Ad5.hAC6 participants receiving the highest 2 doses (D4 + 5). Results Fifty-six individuals were randomized and monitored for up to 1 year. Forty-two participants (75%) received Ad5.hAC6 (mean [SE] age, 63 [1] years; EF, 30% [1%]), and 14 individuals (25%) received placebo (age, 62 [1] years; EF, 30% [2%]). Exercise duration showed no significant group differences (4 weeks, P = .27; 12 weeks, P = .47, respectively). The D4 + 5 participants had increased EF at 4 weeks (+6.0 [1.7] EF units; n = 21; P < .004), but not 12 weeks (+3.0 [2.4] EF units; n = 21; P= .16). Placebo participants showed no increase in EF at 4 weeks or 12 weeks. Exercise duration showed no between-group differences (4-week change from baseline: placebo, 27 [36] seconds; D4 + 5, 44 [25] seconds; P = .27; 12-week change from baseline: placebo, 44 [28] seconds; D4 + 5, 58 [29 seconds, P = .47). AC6 gene transfer increased basal left ventricular peak −dP/dt (4-week change from baseline: placebo, +93 [51] mm Hg/s; D4 + 5, -39 [33] mm Hg/s; placebo [n = 21]; P < .03); AC6 did not increase arrhythmias. The admission rate for patients with heart failure was 9.5% (4 of 42) in the AC6 group and 28.6% (4 of 14) in the placebo group (relative risk, 0.33 [95% CI, 0.08-1.36]; P = .10). Conclusions and Relevance AC6 gene transfer safely increased LV function beyond standard heart failure therapy, attainable with one-time administration. Larger trials are warranted. Trial Registration clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT00787059 PMID:27437887

Comparative effects of denosumab or bisphosphonate treatment on bone mineral density and calcium metabolism in postmenopausal women.

PubMed

Augoulea, A; Tsakonas, E; Triantafyllopoulos, I; Rizos, D; Armeni, E; Tsoltos, N; Tournis, S; Deligeoroglou, E; Antoniou, A; Lambrinoudaki, I

2017-03-01

To clarify potential differences between denosumab (DNS) and bisphosphonates (BIS) in terms of bone density and bone metabolism, in a sample of postmenopausal women. A total of 113 postmenopausal women aged 53-66 years were treated with either DNS or BIS for 12 months. Bone densitometry and laboratory tests were compared between baseline and follow-up. Femoral neck BMD increased in both treatment-arms (FN-BMD, DNS: 0.69±0.07 g/cm 2 to 0.75±0.09 g/cm 2 ; BIS: 0.69±0.06 g/cm 2 to 0.71±0.07 g/cm 2 ; p≤0.001 in both cases). Lumbar spine BMD (LS-BMD) increased significantly only in the DNS-group (0.83±0.14 g/cm 2 to 0.89±0.14 g/cm 2 , p=0.0001). Only women under treatment with DNS had a significant increase in serum parathyroid hormone (PTH: 44.87±17.54 pg/mL to 53.27±15.77 pg/mL, p=0.04), independently of baseline vitamin D levels. DNS-administration resulted in higher increase from baseline in FN-BMD compared to BIS (DNS vs BIS: 8.7%±8.5 vs 3.8%±7.3, p=0.004). Finally, baseline 25OH vitamin D levels did not determine the extent of PTH-increase following administration of DNS- or BIS-treatment. Both treatments increased BMD, however, the effect of DNS on FN-BMD was superior compared to that of BIS. DNS-treatment increased serum PTH. Baseline 25OH vitamin D levels did not predict the extent of PTH increase at follow-up.

Relation of Serum Vitamin D to Risk of Mitral Annular and Aortic Valve Calcium (from the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis).

PubMed

Tibuakuu, Martin; Zhao, Di; de Boer, Ian H; Guallar, Eliseo; Bortnick, Anna E; Lutsey, Pamela L; Budoff, Matthew J; Kizer, Jorge R; Kestenbaum, Bryan R; Michos, Erin D

2017-08-01

Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentration has been identified as a possible modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). We hypothesized that serum 25(OH)D concentration would be associated with calcifications of the left-sided heart valves, which are markers of CVD risk. Aortic valve calcium (AVC) and mitral annular calcium (MAC) were quantified from cardiac computed tomography scans performed on 5,530 Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis participants at the baseline examination (2000 to 2002) and at a follow-up visit at either Examination 2 (2002 to 2004) or Examination 3 (2004 to 2005). 25(OH)D was measured from serum samples collected at the baseline examination. Using relative risk regression, we evaluated the multivariable-adjusted risk of prevalent and incident AVC and MAC in this ethnically diverse population free of clinical CVD at baseline. The mean age of participants was 62 ± 10 years; 53% were women, 40% white, 26% black, 21% Hispanic, and 12% Chinese. Prevalent AVC and MAC were observed in 12% and 9% of study sample, respectively. There were no significant associations between 25(OH)D and prevalent AVC or MAC. Over a mean follow-up of 2.5 years, 4% developed incident AVC and 5% developed incident MAC. After adjusting for demographic variables, each 10 ng/ml higher serum 25(OH)D was associated with a 15% (relative risk 0.85, 95% confidence interval 0.74 to 0.98) lower risk of incident MAC but not AVC. However, this association was no longer significant after adjusting for lifestyle and CVD risk factors. Results suggest a possible link between serum 25(OH)D and the risk for incident MAC, but future studies with longer follow-up are needed to further test this association. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Relationship Between Vitamin D Deficiency and the Components of Metabolic Syndrome in Patients with Morbid Obesity, Before and 1 Year After Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass or Sleeve Gastrectomy.

PubMed

Obispo Entrenas, Ana; Legupin Tubio, David; Lucena Navarro, Fabiola; Martin Carvajal, Francisco; Gandara Adan, Norberto; Redondo Bautista, Maximino; Abiles Osinaga, Jimena

2017-05-01

Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) is associated with obesity and metabolic syndrome (MS). After bariatric surgery (BS), high rates of VDD often persist and some patients are refractory to the resolution of comorbidities. The aim of the present study is to analyse the relationship between the levels of vitamin D and the persistence of MS components at 12 months after BS, according to the surgical technique used. We performed a retrospective study of 46 patients undergoing BS: 23 underwent laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGBP) and 23 laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). These patients had an average BMI of 45 kg/m 2 (34-63). Levels of vitamin D were classified as deficient (<20 ng/dl), insufficient (20-30 ng/dl) or normal (>30 ng/dl) and analysed in relation to the components of MS (high blood pressure (HBP), dyslipidaemia (DL) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) preoperatively and 12 months after surgery. VDD was observed in 77% of the patients prior to surgery. There were no significant associations between predisposing factors and baseline vitamin D. After surgery, plasma levels of vitamin D increased in both groups, but only 18% of the patients achieved normal values. Both groups had achieved significant improvements in MS components. Thus, 63% of all the patients achieved complete resolution of HBP, 54% that of DL and 77% that of T2DM. Moreover, MS was present in 11% of the patients, compared to 63% at baseline, and the MS resolution rate was 83%, with no significant differences between LRYGBP and LSG. There is a relationship between VDD and persistence of MS, and particularly so with T2DM. VDD could represent a predictor of MS persistence at 12 months after surgery.

Programmer's guide for the GNAT computer program (numerical analysis of stratification in supercritical oxygen)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Heinmiller, J. P.

1971-01-01

This document is the programmer's guide for the GNAT computer program developed under MSC/TRW Task 705-2, Apollo cryogenic storage system analysis, subtask 2, is reported. Detailed logic flow charts and compiled program listings are provided for all program elements.

One-year Effects of Vitamin D and Calcium Supplementation on Chronic Periodontitis

PubMed Central

Garcia, M. Nathalia; Hildebolt, Charles F.; Miley, D. Douglas; Dixon, Debra A.; Couture, Rex A.; Spearie, Catherine L. Anderson; Langenwalter, Eric M.; Shannon, William D.; Deych, Elena; Mueller, Cheryl; Civitelli, Roberto

2012-01-01

Background We previously reported in a cross-sectional study that patients who were in periodontal maintenance programs and were taking vitamin D and calcium supplementation had a trend for better periodontal health compared with patients not taking supplementation. The objective of the present study was to determine, for the same group of subjects, whether there was a difference in periodontal health over a one–year period. Methods Fifty-one patients enrolled in maintenance programs from two dental clinics were recruited. Twenty-three were taking vitamin D (≥400 international units/day) and calcium (≥1000mg/day) supplementation, and twenty-eight were not taking supplementation. All subjects had ≥2 interproximal sites with ≥3 mm clinical attachment loss. For mandibular-posterior teeth, these clinical parameters were recorded: gingival index, plaque index, probing depth, attachment loss, bleeding upon probing, calculus index and furcation involvement. Photostimulable-phosphor, posterior bitewing radiographs were taken to assess alveolar bone. Daily vitamin D and calcium intakes were estimated by nutritional analysis. Data were collected at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months. Results Clinical parameters improved with time in both groups (p<0.01). When clinical measures were considered collectively, the results were borderline significant at baseline (p=0.061), significant at 6 months (p=0.049) but not significant at 12 months (p=0.114). After adjusting for covariates, the effect of supplements was significant at baseline (p=0.037), borderline at 6 months (p=0.058) and not significant at 12 months (p=0.142) Conclusion Calcium and vitamin D supplementation has a modest positive effect on periodontal health, and consistent dental care improves clinical parameters of periodontal disease regardless of such supplements. Calcium and vitamin D supplementation has a modest positive effect on periodontal health, and consistent dental care improves clinical parameters of periodontal disease regardless of such supplements. Our findings raise the possibility that vitamin D, perhaps at higher doses, may positively impact on periodontal disease severity. PMID:20809866

Geologic setting, petrophysical characteristics, and regional heterogeneity patterns of the Smackover in southwest Alabama. Draft topical report on Subtasks 2 and 3

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

Kopaska-Merkel, D.C.; Mann, S.D.; Tew, B.H.

1992-06-01

This is the draft topical report on Subtasks 2 and 3 of DOE contract number DE-FG22-89BC14425, entitled ``Establishment of an oil and gas database for increased recovery and characterization of oil and gas carbonate reservoir heterogeneity.`` This volume constitutes the final report on Subtask 3, which had as its primary goal the geological modeling of reservoir heterogeneity in Smackover reservoirs of southwest Alabama. This goal was interpreted to include a thorough analysis of Smackover reservoirs, which was required for an understanding of Smackover reservoir heterogeneity. This report is divided into six sections (including this brief introduction). Section two, entitled ``Geologicmore » setting,`` presents a concise summary of Jurassic paleogeography, structural setting, and stratigraphy in southwest Alabama. This section also includes a brief review of sedimentologic characteristics and stratigraphic framework of the Smackover, and a summary of the diagenetic processes that strongly affected Smackover reservoirs in Alabama. Section three, entitled ``Analytical methods,`` summarizes all nonroutine aspects of the analytical procedures used in this project. The major topics are thin-section description, analysis of commercial porosity and permeability data, capillary-pressure analysis, and field characterization. ``Smackover reservoir characteristics`` are described in section four, which begins with a general summary of the petrographic characteristics of porous and permeable Smackover strata. This is followed by a more-detailed petrophysical description of Smackover reservoirs.« less

Information Presentation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Holden, Kritina L.; Thompson, Shelby G.; Sandor, Aniko; McCann, Robert S.; Kaiser, Mary K.; Adelstein, Barnard D.; Begault, Durand R.; Beutter, Brent R.; Stone, Leland S.; Godfroy, Martine

2009-01-01

The goal of the Information Presentation Directed Research Project (DRP) is to address design questions related to the presentation of information to the crew. In addition to addressing display design issues associated with information formatting, style, layout, and interaction, the Information Presentation DRP is also working toward understanding the effects of extreme environments encountered in space travel on information processing. Work is also in progress to refine human factors-based design tools, such as human performance modeling, that will supplement traditional design techniques and help ensure that optimal information design is accomplished in the most cost-efficient manner. The major areas of work, or subtasks, within the Information Presentation DRP for FY10 are: 1) Displays, 2) Controls, 3) Procedures and Fault Management, and 4) Human Performance Modeling. The poster will highlight completed and planned work for each subtask.

Insight into illness and its relationship to illness severity, cognition and estimated antipsychotic dopamine receptor occupancy in schizophrenia: An antipsychotic dose reduction study.

PubMed

Gerretsen, Philip; Takeuchi, Hiroyoshi; Ozzoude, Miracle; Graff-Guerrero, Ariel; Uchida, Hiroyuki

2017-05-01

Little is known about the influence of D 2 receptor occupancy on impaired insight into illness (III)-a core feature of schizophrenia. III is associated with illness severity and cognitive dysfunction. Comparably, supratherapeutic D 2 receptor occupancy can impair cognition. However, it is unclear how illness severity, cognition, and D 2 receptor occupancy interact to influence III in schizophrenia. The aim of this study was to explore the influence of antipsychotic dose reduction on the relationships of illness severity and cognition to III. III was assessed at baseline and 28 weeks post-antipsychotic dose reduction in 16 participants with schizophrenia and plasma antipsychotic concentrations. III was assessed primarily with the Schedule for the Assessment of Insight-Japanese version, and secondarily with the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale item G12. Correlation and regression analyses were performed to explore III's relationship to illness severity, cognition, and estimated D 2 receptor occupancy (Est.D 2 ). Cognition and Est.D 2 predicted III at baseline. At 28 weeks post-reduction, illness severity and Est.D 2 predicted III. Our findings suggest a complex relationship may exist among III, illness severity, cognition and Est.D 2 . At higher D 2 receptor occupancies, III is influenced by cognitive dysfunction, whereas, at lower occupancies, illness severity has a stronger effect on III. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

A Hybrid Method for Opinion Finding Task (KUNLP at TREC 2008 Blog Track)

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-11-01

retrieve relevant documents. For the Opinion Retrieval subtask, we propose a hybrid model of lexicon-based approach and machine learning approach for...estimating and ranking the opinionated documents. For the Polarized Opinion Retrieval subtask, we employ machine learning for predicting the polarity...and linear combination technique for ranking polar documents. The hybrid model which utilize both lexicon-based approach and machine learning approach

Fluctuations in work motivation: tasks do not matter!

PubMed

Navarro, Jose; Curioso, Fernando; Gomes, Duarte; Arrieta, Carlos; Cortes, Mauricio

2013-01-01

Previous studies have shown that work motivation fluctuates considerably and in a nonlinear way over time. In the present research, we are interested in studying if the task at hand does or does not influence the presence of these fluctuations. We gathered daily registers from 69 workers during 21 consecutive working days (7036 registers) of task developed and levels of motivation, self-efficacy beliefs and instrumentalities perception. These registers were then categorized into a list of labor activities in main tasks and subtasks by means of three judges with a high level of agreement (97.47% for tasks, and 98.64% for subtasks). Taking the MSSD statistic (mean squared successive difference) of the average of motivation, self-efficacy and instrumentality, and using hierarchical regression analysis we have found that tasks (beta = .03; p = .188) and subtasks (beta = .10; p = .268) do not affect the presence of fluctuations in motivation. These results reveal instability in work motivation independently from the tasks and subtasks that the workers do. We proceed to find that fluctuations in work motivation show a fractal structure across the different tasks we do in a working day. Implications of these results to motivational theory will be discussed as well as possible explanations (e.g. the influence of affect in work motivation) and directions for future research are provided.

Fortification of orange juice with vitamin D: a novel approach for enhancing vitamin D nutritional health.

PubMed

Tangpricha, Vin; Koutkia, Polyxeni; Rieke, Suzanne M; Chen, Tai C; Perez, Alberto A; Holick, Michael F

2003-06-01

Fortification of milk with vitamin D may not be adequate for satisfying the vitamin D requirement because of variability in vitamin D content after fortification and because many persons have milk allergy or lactose intolerance. Additional foods need to be fortified with vitamin D. We determined whether vitamin D, a fat-soluble vitamin, is bioavailable in orange juice and skim milk, 2 nonfat beverages. On 3 separate occasions, 18 adults ingested 25 000 IU vitamin D(2) in 240 mL whole milk or skim milk or in 0.1 mL corn oil applied to toast. A separate, double-blind, randomized, controlled trial investigated whether the consumption of orange juice fortified with vitamin D(3) would increase serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations: 14 subjects ingested 240 mL orange juice fortified with 1000 IU vitamin D, and 12 subjects ingested a control orange juice daily for 12 wk. Peak serum vitamin D(2) concentrations did not differ significantly after the ingestion of vitamin D(2) in whole milk, skim milk, or corn oil on toast. After subjects consumed orange juice fortified with 1000 IU vitamin D(3) daily for 12 wk, serum 25(OH)D(3) concentrations increased by 150%, and serum parathyroid hormone concentrations decreased by 25% compared with baseline; control subjects had a seasonal increase of 45% in 25(OH)D and no significant change in serum parathyroid hormone. The fat content of milk does not affect vitamin D bioavailability. Vitamin D fortification at 1000 IU/240 mL orange juice for 12 wk safely increased 25(OH)D(3) concentrations in adults.

Baseline mean deviation and rates of visual field change in treated glaucoma patients.

PubMed

Forchheimer, I; de Moraes, C G; Teng, C C; Folgar, F; Tello, C; Ritch, R; Liebmann, J M

2011-05-01

To evaluate the relationships between baseline visual field (VF) mean deviation (MD) and subsequent progression in treated glaucoma. Records of patients seen in a glaucoma practice between 1999 and 2009 were reviewed. Patients with glaucomatous optic neuropathy, baseline VF damage, and ≥8 SITA-standard 24-2 VF were included. Patients were divided into tertiles based upon baseline MD. Automated pointwise linear regression determined global and localized rates (decibels (dB) per year) of change. Progression was defined when two or more adjacent test locations in the same hemifield showed a sensitivity decline at a rate of >1.0  dB per year, P<0.01. For mild, moderate, and severe groups, progression was noted in 29.5, 31.2, and 26.0% of eyes (P=0.50) and global rates of VF change of progressing eyes were -1.3±1.2, -1.01±0.7, and -0.9±0.5 dB/year (P=0.09, analysis of variance). Within these groups, intraocular pressure (IOP) in stable vs progressing eyes were 15.5±3.3 vs 17.0±3.1 (P<0.01), 15.4±3.3 vs 15.9±2.5 (P=0.28), and 14.0±2.8 vs 14.8±2.3 mm Hg (P=0.07). More glaucoma filtering surgeries were performed in eyes with worse MD. There was no significant difference between groups regarding their risk of progression in both univariate (P=0.50) and multivariate (P=0.26) analyses adjusting for differences in follow-up IOP. After correcting for differences in IOP in treated glaucoma patients, we did not find a relationship between the rate of VF change (dB per year) and the severity of the baseline VF MD. This finding may have been due to more aggressive IOP lowering in eyes with more severe disease. Eyes with lower IOP progressed less frequently across the spectrum of VF loss.

Efficacy and safety of ivacaftor in patients aged 6 to 11 years with cystic fibrosis with a G551D mutation.

PubMed

Davies, Jane C; Wainwright, Claire E; Canny, Gerard J; Chilvers, Mark A; Howenstine, Michelle S; Munck, Anne; Mainz, Jochen G; Rodriguez, Sally; Li, Haihong; Yen, Karl; Ordoñez, Claudia L; Ahrens, Richard

2013-06-01

Ivacaftor (VX-770), a cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) potentiator, has been shown to improve lung function, pulmonary exacerbation rate, respiratory symptoms, and weight gain compared with placebo in patients with cystic fibrosis aged 12 years or older with a G551D-CFTR mutation. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial evaluated ivacaftor in patients with cystic fibrosis aged 6-11 years with a G551D-CFTR mutation on at least one allele. Patients were randomly assigned to receive ivacaftor administered orally at 150 mg (n = 26) or placebo (n = 26) every 12 hours for 48 weeks in addition to existing prescribed cystic fibrosis therapies. Despite near-normal mean baseline values in FEV1, patients receiving ivacaftor had a significant increase in percent predicted FEV1 from baseline through Week 24 versus placebo group (treatment effect, 12.5 percentage points; P < 0.001). Effects on pulmonary function were evident by 2 weeks, and a significant treatment effect was maintained through Week 48. Patients treated with ivacaftor gained, on average, 2.8 kg more than those receiving placebo at Week 48 (P < 0.001). The change from baseline through Week 48 in the concentration of sweat chloride, a measure of CFTR activity, with ivacaftor was -53.5 mmol/L (P < 0.001) versus placebo. The incidence of adverse events was similar in the two groups. In patients who are younger and healthier than those in previously studied populations, ivacaftor demonstrated a significant improvement in pulmonary function, weight, and CFTR activity compared with placebo. Clinical trial registered with www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT00909727).

Efficacy and Safety of Ivacaftor in Patients Aged 6 to 11 Years with Cystic Fibrosis with a G551D Mutation

PubMed Central

Wainwright, Claire E.; Canny, Gerard J.; Chilvers, Mark A.; Howenstine, Michelle S.; Munck, Anne; Mainz, Jochen G.; Rodriguez, Sally; Li, Haihong; Yen, Karl; Ordoñez, Claudia L.; Ahrens, Richard

2013-01-01

Rationale: Ivacaftor (VX-770), a cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) potentiator, has been shown to improve lung function, pulmonary exacerbation rate, respiratory symptoms, and weight gain compared with placebo in patients with cystic fibrosis aged 12 years or older with a G551D-CFTR mutation. Objectives: This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial evaluated ivacaftor in patients with cystic fibrosis aged 6–11 years with a G551D-CFTR mutation on at least one allele. Methods: Patients were randomly assigned to receive ivacaftor administered orally at 150 mg (n = 26) or placebo (n = 26) every 12 hours for 48 weeks in addition to existing prescribed cystic fibrosis therapies. Measurements and Main Results: Despite near-normal mean baseline values in FEV1, patients receiving ivacaftor had a significant increase in percent predicted FEV1 from baseline through Week 24 versus placebo group (treatment effect, 12.5 percentage points; P < 0.001). Effects on pulmonary function were evident by 2 weeks, and a significant treatment effect was maintained through Week 48. Patients treated with ivacaftor gained, on average, 2.8 kg more than those receiving placebo at Week 48 (P < 0.001). The change from baseline through Week 48 in the concentration of sweat chloride, a measure of CFTR activity, with ivacaftor was −53.5 mmol/L (P < 0.001) versus placebo. The incidence of adverse events was similar in the two groups. Conclusions: In patients who are younger and healthier than those in previously studied populations, ivacaftor demonstrated a significant improvement in pulmonary function, weight, and CFTR activity compared with placebo. Clinical trial registered with www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT00909727). PMID:23590265

The inter-arm diastolic blood pressure difference induced by one arm ischemia: a new approach to assess vascular endothelia function.

PubMed

Hu, Weitong; Li, Juxiang; Su, Hai; Wang, Jiwei; Xu, Jinsong; Liu, Yanna; Huang, Ming; Cheng, Xiaoshu

2014-01-01

To evaluate whether inter-arm diastolic blood pressure difference (DBPl-r) induced by one arm ischemia correlates with flow-mediated dilatation (FMD). Bilateral arm BPs were simultaneously measured with two automatic devices and right brachial artery diameter (D) was measured by ultrasound technique in 108 subjects (56 hypertensives and 52 normotensives). Following baseline diameter (D0) and BP measurement, right brachial artery was occluded for 5 minutes. The diameter was measured at 1, 1.5 and 2 min, and bilateral BPs measured at 3, 4 and 5 min after occlusion release. Their averages were recorded as post-D and post-BP, respectively. The difference between post-D and D0 (ΔD) was calculated as the percentage increase of artery diameter (ΔD/D0). The BP difference between left and right arms was calculated as BPl-r, and the difference of post- BPl-r and baseline BPl-r was recorded as the net change of BPl-r (ΔBPl-r). At baseline, bilateral SBPs and DBPs were similar. Right arm ischemia induced significant DBP decline only in the right arm (68.8±12.7 vs 72.6±12.0 mmHg, P<0.05), which led to an increase of ΔDBPl-r (4.00±3.75 vs 0.78±4.47 mmHg, P<0.05). A positive correlation was seen between ΔD/D0 and ΔDBPl-r (r = 0.744, p<0.001). Furthermore, the correlation between age and ΔDBPl-r (r = -0.358, P<0.01) was similar to that between age and D/D0 (r = -0.398, P<0.01). Meanwhile, both ΔDBPl-r and ΔD/D0 were significantly lower in hypertensive patients than in normotensive patients. The inter-arm DBP difference induced by one arm ischemia may be a potential index for clinical evaluation of vascular endothelial function.

Validating and assessing the sensitivity of the Health Assessment Questionnaire-Disability Index-derived Short Form-6D in patients with early aggressive rheumatoid arthritis.

PubMed

Amjadi, Sogol S; Maranian, Paul M; Paulus, Harold E; Kaplan, Robert M; Ranganath, Veena K; Furst, Daniel E; Khanna, Puja P; Khanna, Dinesh

2009-06-01

New methodologies allow the scores for the Health Assessment Questionnaire-Disability Index (HAQ-DI) to be translated into preferences/utility scores. We evaluated the construct validity of the HAQ-DI-derived Short Form-6D (SF-6D) score and assessed its responsiveness to change over 6- and 12-month followup periods in patients with early aggressive rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Patients (n=277) participating in an RA observational study completed self-reported measures of symptoms and the HAQ-DI at baseline and at 6 and 12 months. Total Sharp scores, C-reactive protein, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate were assessed along with clinical data. Construct validity was assessed by examining the association between SF-6D score and patient-reported and clinical measures using Spearman correlation coefficients. The responsiveness of SF-6D to change was assessed using patient and physician assessments of the disease as clinical anchors. The magnitude of responsiveness was calculated using SF-6D effect size (ES). Mean SF-6D scores were 0.690, 0.720, and 0.723 at baseline and 6 and 12-month followup, respectively. Baseline patient-reported measures had moderate to high correlations with baseline SF-6D (r=0.43 to 0.52); whereas clinical measures had negligible to low correlations with SF-6D (r=0.001 to 0.32). ES was moderate for the groups that were deemed to have improved (ES 0.63-0.75) but negligible to small for those that did not (ES 0.13-0.46). Our data support the validity and responsiveness of the HAQ-DI derived SF-6D score in an early RA cohort. These results support the use of the HAQ-DI derived SF-6D in RA cohorts and clinical trials lacking preference-based measures.

Lifestyle and Other Factors Explain One-Half of the Variability in the Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Response to Cholecalciferol Supplementation in Healthy Adults.

PubMed

Rees, Judy R; Mott, Leila A; Barry, Elizabeth L; Baron, John A; Bostick, Roberd M; Figueiredo, Jane C; Bresalier, Robert S; Robertson, Douglas J; Peacock, Janet L

2016-11-01

Many factors have been associated with serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations in observational studies, with variable consistency. However, less information is available on factors affecting the magnitude of changes in serum 25(OH)D resulting from vitamin D supplementation. This study aimed to identify factors associated with the serum 25(OH)D response to supplementation with 1000 IU cholecalciferol/d during the first year of a large, multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled colorectal adenoma chemoprevention trial. Eligible older adults who were not vitamin D-deficient [serum 25(OH)D ≥12 ng/mL] were randomly assigned in a modified 2 × 2 factorial design to 1 of 4 groups: daily 1000 IU cholecalciferol, 1200 mg Ca as carbonate, both, or placebo. Women could elect 2-group (calcium ± cholecalciferol) random assignment. In secondary analyses, we used multivariable models to assess factors associated with serum 25(OH)D concentrations in all enrollees (n = 2753) and with relative changes in serum 25(OH)D after 1 y cholecalciferol supplementation among those randomly assigned (n = 2187). In multivariable models, 8 factors accounted for 50% of the variability of proportional change in serum 25(OH)D after cholecalciferol supplementation. Larger increases were associated with being female (34.5% compared with 20.5%; P < 0.001) and with lower baseline serum 25(OH)D (P < 0.0001), optimal adherence to study pill intake (P = 0.0002), wearing long pants and sleeves during sun exposure (P = 0.0002), moderate activity level (P = 0.01), use of extra vitamin D-containing supplements during the trial (P = 0.03), and seasons of blood draw (P ≤ 0.002). Several genetic polymorphisms were associated with baseline serum 25(OH)D and/or serum response, but these did not substantially increase the models' R 2 values. Other factors, including body mass index, were associated with serum 25(OH)D at baseline but not with its response to supplemental cholecalciferol. The factors that most affected changes in serum 25(OH)D concentrations in response to cholecalciferol supplementation included sex, baseline serum 25(OH)D, supplement intake adherence, skin-covering clothes, physical activity, and season. Genetic factors did not play a major role. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00153816. © 2016 American Society for Nutrition.

No degeneration found in focal cartilage defects evaluated with dGEMRIC at 12-year follow-up.

PubMed

Engen, Cathrine Nørstad; Løken, Sverre; Årøen, Asbjørn; Ho, Charles; Engebretsen, Lars

2017-02-01

Background and purpose - The natural history of focal cartilage defects (FCDs) is still unresolved, as is the long-term cartilage quality after cartilage surgery. It has been suggested that delayed gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging of cartilage (dGEMRIC) is a biomarker of early OA. We aimed to quantitatively evaluate the articular cartilage in knees with FCDs, 12 years after arthroscopic diagnosis. Patients and methods - We included 21 patients from a cohort of patients with knee pain who underwent arthroscopy in 1999. Patients with a full-thickness cartilage defect, stable knees, and at least 50% of both their menisci intact at baseline were eligible. 10 patients had cartilage repair performed at baseline (microfracture or autologous chondrocyte implantation), whereas 11 patients had either no additional surgery or simple debridement performed. Mean follow-up time was 12 (10-13) years. The morphology and biochemical features were evaluated with dGEMRIC and T2 mapping. Standing radiographs for Kellgren and Lawrence (K&L) classification of osteoarthritis (OA) were obtained. Knee function was assessed with VAS, Tegner, Lysholm, and KOOS. Results - The dGEMRIC showed varying results but, overall, no increased degeneration of the injured knees. Degenerative changes (K&L above 0) were, however, evident in 13 of the 21 knees. Interpretation - The natural history of untreated FCDs shows large dGEMRIC variations, as does the knee articular cartilage of surgically treated patients. In this study, radiographic OA changes did not correlate with cartilage quality, as assessed with dGEMRIC.

An Observational Longitudinal Study Investigating the Effectiveness of 75 mg Pregabalin Post-Hemodialysis among Uremic Pruritus Patients.

PubMed

Khan, Tahir Mehmood; Wu, David Bin-Chia; Goh, Bey-Hing; Lee, Learn-Han; Alhafez, Abdul Aziz; Syed Sulaiman, Syed Azhar

2016-11-08

A prospective, observational, longitudinal study was conducted to assess the effectiveness of 75 mg pregabalin (PG) post-hemodialysis (pHD) for treatment-resistant uremic pruritus (UP). A total of forty-five patients completed the entire six week follow-up. At the baseline assessment, the majority of the patients were distressed by the UP frequency and intensity. Sleep (mean = 3.30 ± 1.1), leisure/social activities (mean = 2.90 ± 0.80) and distribution (mean = 2.92 ± 0.34) were the three domains that were primarily effected by the UP. Overall, further reduction in the 5D-itching scale (IS) was noted at day 42, which confirmed a sustained (B = -12.729, CI -13.257 to -12.201, p < 0.001) relief of pruritus severity among patients with treatment-resistant pruritus. Patients with a higher serum calcium level had a score difference of +1 from the other patients (B = 1.010, p = 0.061). There was a reduction of 12 points compared to the baseline 5D-IS for each patient on day 42 after using pregabalin 75 mg PD pHD for 42 days, which represented major relief. Among the demographic factors, only gender was significantly associated with the 5D-IS score.

Pomegranate (Punicagranatum) juice decreases lipid peroxidation, but has no effect on plasma advanced glycated end-products in adults with type 2 diabetes: a randomized double-blind clinical trial.

PubMed

Sohrab, Golbon; Angoorani, Pooneh; Tohidi, Maryam; Tabibi, Hadi; Kimiagar, Masoud; Nasrollahzadeh, Javad

2015-01-01

Diabetes mellitus characterized by hyperglycemia could increase oxidative stress and formation of advanced glycated end-products (AGEs), which contribute to diabetic complications. The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of pomegranate juice (PJ) containing natural antioxidant on lipid peroxidation and plasma AGEs in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 44 patients (age range 56±6.8 years), T2D were randomly assigned to one of two groups: group A (PJ, n=22) and group B (Placebo, n=22). At the baseline and the end of 12-week intervention, biochemical markers including fasting plasma glucose, insulin, oxidative stress, and AGE markers including carboxy methyl lysine (CML) and pentosidine were assayed. At baseline, there were no significant differences in plasma total antioxidant capacity (TAC) levels between the two groups, but malondialdehyde (MDA) decreased levels were significantly different (P<0.001). After 12 weeks of intervention, TAC increased (P<0.05) and MDA decreased (P<0.01) in the PJ group when compared with the placebo group. However, no significant differences were observed in plasma concentration of CML and pentosidine between the two groups. The study showed that PJ decreases lipid peroxidation. Therefore, PJ consumption may delay onset of T2D complications related to oxidative stress.

Design, methodology, and baseline data of the Personalized Addition Lenses Clinical Trial (PACT)

PubMed Central

Yu, Xinping; Zhang, Binjun; Bao, Jinhua; Zhang, Junxiao; Wu, Ge; Xu, Jinling; Zheng, Jingwei; Drobe, Björn; Chen, Hao

2017-01-01

Abstract Background: The aim of this study was to describe the design, methods, and baseline characteristics of children enrolled in the Personalized Addition lenses Clinical Trial (PACT). PACT aims to test the myopia control efficacy of progressive addition lenses (PALs) with personalized addition values compared with standard (+2.00 D) addition PALs and single vision lenses (SVLs). Methods: PACT is a randomized, controlled, double-masked clinical trial. Two hundred eleven myopic Chinese children (7–12 years) were enrolled and randomized into 1 of the 3 following groups: personalized addition PALs; +2.00 addition PALs; and SVLs. Personalized addition values were determined based on the highest addition that satisfied Sheard criterion. Axial length and other biometric data were also recorded. Results: At baseline, no differences were found between the right and left eyes for any of the main parameters. The enrolled children were 9.7 ± 1.1 years’ old with cycloplegic autorefraction (right eye [OD]: −2.36 ± 0.64 D), near phoria (1.0 ± 5.0 prism diopter esophoria), lag of accommodation (1.40 ± 0.50 D) and axial length (OD: 24.58 ± 0.74 mm). The personalized addition values ranged from +0.75 to +3.00 (average ± SD: 2.19 ± 0.73 D). Conclusion: PACT is a clinical trial evaluating whether myopia progression in children can be slowed by wearing personalized addition PALs compared with fixed addition PALs and SVLs as measured by cycloplegic autorefraction and axial length. Baseline data were comparable with those of previous myopia control studies in children. Subjects will be followed up every 6 months for 2 years. PMID:28296722

Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Level Could Predict the Risk for Peritoneal Dialysis-Associated Peritonitis.

PubMed

Pi, Hai-Chen; Ren, Ye-Ping; Wang, Qin; Xu, Rong; Dong, Jie

2015-12-01

♦ As an immune system regulator, vitamin D is commonly deficient among patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD), which may contribute to their impaired immune function and increased risk for PD-related peritonitis. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether vitamin D deficiency could predict the risk of peritonitis in a prospective cohort of patients on PD. ♦ We collected 346 prevalent and incident PD patients from 2 hospitals. Baseline demographic data and clinical characteristics were recorded. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) was measured at baseline and prior to peritonitis. The mean doses of oral active vitamin D used during the study period were also recorded. The outcome was the occurrence of peritonitis. ♦ The mean age of patients and duration of PD were 58.95 ± 13.67 years and 28.45 (15.04 - 53.37) months, respectively. Baseline 25(OH)D level was 16.15 (12.13 - 21.16) nmol/L, which was closely associated with diabetic status, longer PD duration, malnutrition, and inflammation. Baseline serum 25(OH)D predicted the occurrence of peritonitis independently of active vitamin D supplementation with a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.94 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.90 - 0.98) after adjusting for recognized confounders (age, gender, dialysis duration, diabetes, albumin, residual renal function, and history of peritonitis). Compared to the low tertile, middle and high 25(OH)D level tertiles were associated with a decreased risk for peritonitis with HRs of 0.54 (95% CI 0.31 - 0.94) and 0.39 (95% CI 0.20 - 0.75), respectively. ♦ Vitamin D deficiency evaluated by serum 25(OH)D rather than active vitamin D supplementation is closely associated with a higher risk of peritonitis. Copyright © 2015 International Society for Peritoneal Dialysis.

Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Level Could Predict the Risk for Peritoneal Dialysis-Associated Peritonitis

PubMed Central

Pi, Hai-Chen; Ren, Ye-Ping; Wang, Qin; Xu, Rong; Dong, Jie

2015-01-01

♦ Background: As an immune system regulator, vitamin D is commonly deficient among patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD), which may contribute to their impaired immune function and increased risk for PD-related peritonitis. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether vitamin D deficiency could predict the risk of peritonitis in a prospective cohort of patients on PD. ♦ Methods: We collected 346 prevalent and incident PD patients from 2 hospitals. Baseline demographic data and clinical characteristics were recorded. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) was measured at baseline and prior to peritonitis. The mean doses of oral active vitamin D used during the study period were also recorded. The outcome was the occurrence of peritonitis. ♦ Results: The mean age of patients and duration of PD were 58.95 ± 13.67 years and 28.45 (15.04 – 53.37) months, respectively. Baseline 25(OH)D level was 16.15 (12.13 – 21.16) nmol/L, which was closely associated with diabetic status, longer PD duration, malnutrition, and inflammation. Baseline serum 25(OH)D predicted the occurrence of peritonitis independently of active vitamin D supplementation with a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.94 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.90 – 0.98) after adjusting for recognized confounders (age, gender, dialysis duration, diabetes, albumin, residual renal function, and history of peritonitis). Compared to the low tertile, middle and high 25(OH)D level tertiles were associated with a decreased risk for peritonitis with HRs of 0.54 (95% CI 0.31 – 0.94) and 0.39 (95% CI 0.20 – 0.75), respectively. ♦ Conclusions: Vitamin D deficiency evaluated by serum 25(OH)D rather than active vitamin D supplementation is closely associated with a higher risk of peritonitis. PMID:26224791

Vitamin D status and functional health outcomes in children aged 2-8 y: a 6-mo vitamin D randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Brett, Neil R; Parks, Colleen A; Lavery, Paula; Agellon, Sherry; Vanstone, Catherine A; Kaufmann, Martin; Jones, Glenville; Maguire, Jonathon L; Rauch, Frank; Weiler, Hope A

2018-03-01

Most Canadian children do not meet the recommended dietary intake for vitamin D. The aims were to test how much vitamin D from food is needed to maintain a healthy serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 [25(OH)D3] status from fall to spring in young children and to examine musculoskeletal outcomes. Healthy children aged 2-8 y (n = 51) living in Montreal, Canada, were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 dietary vitamin D groups (control or intervention to reach 400 IU/d by using vitamin D-fortified foods) for 6 mo, starting October 2014. At baseline and at 3 and 6 mo, anthropometric characteristics, vitamin D metabolites (liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry), and bone biomarkers (IDS-iSYS, Immunodiagnositc Systems; Liaison; Diasorin) were measured and physical activity and food intakes surveyed. At baseline and at 6 mo, bone outcomes and body composition (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) were measured. Cross-sectional images of distal tibia geometry and muscle density were conducted with the use of peripheral quantitative computed tomography scans at 6 mo. At baseline, participants were aged 5.2 ± 1.9 (mean ± SD) y and had a body mass index z score of 0.65 ± 0.12; 53% of participants were boys. There were no differences between groups in baseline serum 25(OH)D3 (66.4 ± 13.6 nmol/L) or vitamin D intake (225 ± 74 IU/d). Median (IQR) compliance was 96% (89-99%) for yogurt and 84% (71-97%) for cheese. At 3 mo, serum 25(OH)D3 was higher in the intervention group (P < 0.05) but was not different between groups by 6 mo. Although lean mass accretion was higher in the intervention group (P < 0.05), no differences in muscle density or bone outcomes were observed. The consumption of 400 IU vitamin D/d from fall to spring did not maintain serum 25(OH)D3 concentration or improve bone outcomes. Further work with lean mass accretion as the primary outcome is needed to confirm if vitamin D enhances lean accretion in healthy young children. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as NCT02387892.

A multistage gene normalization system integrating multiple effective methods.

PubMed

Li, Lishuang; Liu, Shanshan; Li, Lihua; Fan, Wenting; Huang, Degen; Zhou, Huiwei

2013-01-01

Gene/protein recognition and normalization is an important preliminary step for many biological text mining tasks. In this paper, we present a multistage gene normalization system which consists of four major subtasks: pre-processing, dictionary matching, ambiguity resolution and filtering. For the first subtask, we apply the gene mention tagger developed in our earlier work, which achieves an F-score of 88.42% on the BioCreative II GM testing set. In the stage of dictionary matching, the exact matching and approximate matching between gene names and the EntrezGene lexicon have been combined. For the ambiguity resolution subtask, we propose a semantic similarity disambiguation method based on Munkres' Assignment Algorithm. At the last step, a filter based on Wikipedia has been built to remove the false positives. Experimental results show that the presented system can achieve an F-score of 90.1%, outperforming most of the state-of-the-art systems.

Episodic-like memory trace in awake replay of hippocampal place cell activity sequences.

PubMed

Takahashi, Susumu

2015-10-20

Episodic memory retrieval of events at a specific place and time is effective for future planning. Sequential reactivation of the hippocampal place cells along familiar paths while the animal pauses is well suited to such a memory retrieval process. It is, however, unknown whether this awake replay represents events occurring along the path. Using a subtask switching protocol in which the animal experienced three subtasks as 'what' information in a maze, I here show that the replay represents a trial type, consisting of path and subtask, in terms of neuronal firing timings and rates. The actual trial type to be rewarded could only be reliably predicted from replays that occurred at the decision point. This trial-type representation implies that not only 'where and when' but also 'what' information is contained in the replay. This result supports the view that awake replay is an episodic-like memory retrieval process.

Growth hormone favorably affects bone turnover and bone mineral density in patients with short bowel syndrome undergoing intestinal rehabilitation.

PubMed

Tangpricha, Vin; Luo, Menghua; Fernández-Estívariz, Concepción; Gu, Li H; Bazargan, Niloofar; Klapproth, Jan-Michael; Sitaraman, Shanthi V; Galloway, John R; Leader, Lorraine M; Ziegler, Thomas R

2006-01-01

Patients with short bowel syndrome (SBS) have a high prevalence of metabolic bone disease due to nutrient malabsorption and potential effects of parenteral nutrition (PN). Human growth hormone (hGH) has been shown in some studies to have anabolic effects on bone, but hGH effects on bone in patients with SBS are unknown. Adults with PN-dependent SBS underwent a 7-day period of baseline studies while receiving usual oral diet and PN and then began receiving modified diets designed to improve nutrient absorption and daily oral calcium/vitamin D supplements (1500 mg elemental calcium and 600 IU vitamin D, respectively). Subjects were randomized to receive in a double-blind manner either subcutaneous (sc) saline placebo as the control or hGH (0.1 mg/kg/d for 3 weeks, then 0.1 mg/kg 3 days a week for 8 subsequent weeks). Open-label hGH was given from week 13 to week 24 in subjects who required PN after completion of the 12-week double-blind phase. Markers of bone turnover (serum osteocalcin and urinary N-telopeptide [NTX]), vitamin D nutriture (serum calcium, 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25-OH D] and parathyroid hormone [PTH] concentrations), and intestinal calcium absorption were measured at baseline and at weeks 4 and 12. Dual x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) of the hip and spine was performed to determine bone mineral density (BMD) at baseline and weeks 12 and 24. The majority of subjects in each group exhibited evidence of vitamin D deficiency at baseline (25-OH D levels<30 ng/mL; 78% and 79% of control and hGH-treated subjects, respectively). Subjects treated with hGH demonstrated a significant increase from baseline in serum osteocalcin levels at 12 weeks (+62%; p<.05). The levels of NTX were increased over time in the hGH-treated group; however, this did not reach statistical significance. Both NTX and osteocalcin remained unchanged in control subjects. BMD of the spine and total hip was unchanged in subjects treated with placebo or hGH at 24 weeks. However, femoral neck BMD was slightly but significantly decreased in the placebo group at this time point but remained unchanged from baseline in the hGH-treated subjects. hGH therapy significantly increased markers of bone turnover during the initial 3 months of therapy and stabilized femoral neck bone mass over a 6-month period in patients with severe SBS undergoing intestinal rehabilitation.

The Geoid Slope Validation Survey 2014 and GRAV-D airborne gravity enhanced geoid comparison results in Iowa

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Y. M.; Becker, C.; Mader, G.; Martin, D.; Li, X.; Jiang, T.; Breidenbach, S.; Geoghegan, C.; Winester, D.; Guillaume, S.; Bürki, B.

2017-10-01

Three Geoid Slope Validation Surveys were planned by the National Geodetic Survey for validating geoid improvement gained by incorporating airborne gravity data collected by the "Gravity for the Redefinition of the American Vertical Datum" (GRAV-D) project in flat, medium and rough topographic areas, respectively. The first survey GSVS11 over a flat topographic area in Texas confirmed that a 1-cm differential accuracy geoid over baseline lengths between 0.4 and 320 km is achievable with GRAV-D data included (Smith et al. in J Geod 87:885-907, 2013). The second survey, Geoid Slope Validation Survey 2014 (GSVS14) took place in Iowa in an area with moderate topography but significant gravity variation. Two sets of geoidal heights were computed from GPS/leveling data and observed astrogeodetic deflections of the vertical at 204 GSVS14 official marks. They agree with each other at a {± }1.2 cm level, which attests to the high quality of the GSVS14 data. In total, four geoid models were computed. Three models combined the GOCO03/5S satellite gravity model with terrestrial and GRAV-D gravity with different strategies. The fourth model, called xGEOID15A, had no airborne gravity data and served as the benchmark to quantify the contribution of GRAV-D to the geoid improvement. The comparisons show that each model agrees with the GPS/leveling geoid height by 1.5 cm in mark-by-mark comparisons. In differential comparisons, all geoid models have a predicted accuracy of 1-2 cm at baseline lengths from 1.6 to 247 km. The contribution of GRAV-D is not apparent due to a 9-cm slope in the western 50-km section of the traverse for all gravimetric geoid models, and it was determined that the slopes have been caused by a 5 mGal bias in the terrestrial gravity data. If that western 50-km section of the testing line is excluded in the comparisons, then the improvement with GRAV-D is clearly evident. In that case, 1-cm differential accuracy on baselines of any length is achieved with the GRAV-D-enhanced geoid models and exhibits a clear improvement over the geoid models without GRAV-D data. GSVS14 confirmed that the geoid differential accuracies are in the 1-2 cm range at various baseline lengths. The accuracy increases to 1 cm with GRAV-D gravity when the west 50 km line is not included. The data collected by the surveys have high accuracy and have the potential to be used for validation of other geodetic techniques, e.g., the chronometric leveling. To reach the 1-cm height differences of the GSVS data, a clock with frequency accuracy of 10^{-18} is required. Using the GSVS data, the accuracy of ellipsoidal height differences can also be estimated.

Changes in Eating Behaviors of Children with Obesity in Response to Carbohydrate-Modified and Portion-Controlled Diets.

PubMed

Kirk, Shelley; Woo, Jessica G; Brehm, Bonnie; Daniels, Stephen R; Saelens, Brian E

2017-10-01

This study's objective was to determine whether two distinct carbohydrate (CHO)-modified diets and a standard portion-controlled (PC) diet differentially impacted children's eating behaviors and whether eating behavior scores predicted lower BMI among children with obesity. Children (n = 102) aged 7-12 years with obesity were randomly assigned to a 12-month intervention of a low-carbohydrate (LC), reduced glycemic load (RGL), or standard PC diet. The Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire (TFEQ) was completed at baseline, 3, 6, and 12 months by parents to characterize their child's hunger (H), disinhibition (D), and cognitive restraint (CR). Baseline and follow-up TFEQ scores by diet were evaluated relative to BMI status over time. All diet groups showed increased CR and decreased H and D from baseline to 3 months, with differences from baseline remaining at 12 months for CR and H. Lower BMI status during study follow-up was associated with different TFEQ scores by diet group (LC and RGL: higher CR; PC: lower H), adjusting for sex, age, and race. Higher CR at follow-up was predicted by race and higher baseline CR; only lower H at baseline predicted lower H at follow-up. Eating behaviors improved significantly with all diets during the initial 3 months; higher CR and lower H were sustained at treatment's end. BMI outcomes were associated with different eating behaviors in CHO-modified diet groups compared with PC diets. Targeting diets of children with obesity with specific baseline characteristics may lead to improved outcomes.

Long-Term Green Tea Supplementation Does Not Change the Human Gut Microbiota

PubMed Central

Janssens, Pilou L. H. R.; Penders, John; Hursel, Rick; Budding, Andries E.; Savelkoul, Paul H. M.; Westerterp-Plantenga, Margriet S.

2016-01-01

Background Green tea catechins may play a role in body weight regulation through interactions with the gut microbiota. Aim We examined whether green tea supplementation for 12 weeks induces changes in composition of the human gut microbiota. Methods 58 Caucasian men and women were included in a randomized, placebo-controlled design. For 12 weeks, subjects consumed either green tea (>0.56 g/d epigallocatechin-gallate + 0.28 ∼ 0.45 g/d caffeine) or placebo capsules. Fecal samples were collected twice (baseline, vs. week 12) for analyses of total bacterial profiles by means of IS-profiling, a 16S-23S interspacer region-based profiling method. Results No significant changes between baseline and week 12 in subjects receiving green tea or placebo capsules, and no significant interactions between treatment (green tea or placebo) and time (baseline and week 12) were observed for body composition. Analysis of the fecal samples in subjects receiving green tea and placebo showed similar bacterial diversity and community structures, indicating there were no significant changes in bacterial diversity between baseline and week 12 in subjects receiving green tea capsules or in subjects receiving placebo capsules. No significant interactions were observed between treatment (green tea or placebo) and time (baseline and week 12) for the gut microbial diversity. Although, there were no significant differences between normal weight and overweight subjects in response to green tea, we did observe a reduced bacterial alpha diversity in overweight as compared to normal weight subjects (p = 0.002). Conclusion Green tea supplementation for 12 weeks did not have a significant effect on composition of the gut microbiota. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01556321 PMID:27054321

Subtask 12D3: Fracture properties of V-5Cr-5Ti Alloy

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

Li, H.; Hamilton, M.L.; Jones, R.H.

1995-03-01

The purpose of this research is to investigate the effect of heat treatment on microstructure and fracture toughness of a V-5Cr-5Ti alloy in the range -50-100{degrees}C. Fracture toughness and impact tests were performed on a V-5Cr-5Ti alloy. Specimens annealed at 1125{degrees}C for 1 h and furnace cooled in a vacuum of 1.33 x 10{sup -5} Pa were brittle at room temperature (RT) and experienced a mixture of intergranular and cleavage fracture. Fracture toughness (J{sub IQ}) at RT was 52 kJ/m{sup 2} and the impact fracture energy (IFE) was 6 J. The IFE at -100{degrees}C was only 1 J. While specimensmore » exhibited high fracture toughness at 100{degrees}C (J{sub IQ} is 485 kj/m{sup 2}), fracture was a mixture of dimple and intergranular failure, with intergranular fracture making up 40% of the total fracture surface. The ductile to brittle transition temperature (DBTT) was estimated to be about 20{degrees}C. When some specimens were given an additional annealing at 890{degrees}C for 24 h, they became very ductile at RT and fractured by microvoid coalescence. The J{sub IQ} value increased from 52 kJ/m{sup 2} to {approximately}1100 kJ/m{sup 2}. The impact test failed to fracture specimens at RT due to a large amount of plastic deformation. 7 refs., 1 fig., 6 tabs.« less

Oral Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation for Laser In Situ Keratomileusis-Associated Dry Eye.

PubMed

Goyal, Parul; Jain, Arun K; Malhotra, Chintan

2017-02-01

To determine the effect of oral omega-3 fatty acid (ω3FA) supplementation in laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK)-associated dry eye. In this prospective, open-label study, patients undergoing LASIK were randomized to receive either 1.2 g/d of a triglyceride formulation of oral ω3FA (treatment group) or 400 mg/d vitamin E (control group) for 1 week before and continued for 12 weeks after surgery. Ocular surface disease index, tear breakup time, ocular surface staining, and Schirmer scores were evaluated and compared preoperatively and at 3 months after LASIK. The study included 30 patients in each group. All parameters were comparable at baseline. Ocular surface disease index scores increased comparably in both groups (1.9 ± 0.6 increase in the treatment group; 2.8 ± 0.5 in the control group) (P = 0.267). Compared with baseline levels, tear breakup time decreased significantly (P < 0.01) but comparably in both treatment (-2.3 ± 0.4 seconds decrease) and control (-3.5 ± 0.7 seconds decrease) groups (P = 0.105). More eyes in the control group (43.4%) had conjunctival staining with Lissamine green at 3 months compared with the treatment group (14%) (P = 0.009). The Schirmer score at 3 months was higher (P = 0.003) in the treatment group (30.5 ± 0.90 mm) than in the control group (25.7 ± 1.3 mm) with a increase of 5.9 ± 1.3 mm from baseline in the treatment group and a decrease of 1.5 ± 1.2 mm in the control group. Supplementation with ω3FA in patients undergoing LASIK had a positive influence on tear secretion, whereas tear film stability remained unaffected when compared with the control group.

9C.03: THE BENEFIT FROM HEMODYNAMICALLY GUIDED ANTIHYPERTENSIVE THERAPY DEPENDS ON BASELINE BLOOD PRESSURE.

PubMed

Krzesinski, P; Gielerak, G; Stanczyk, A; Piotrowicz, K; Skrobowski, A

2015-06-01

Impedance cardiography (ICG) revealed to be useful in tailoring antihypertensive therapy to the patient's individual hemodynamic profile but little is known who benefits more from such therapeutic approach. The aim of this study was to estimate the effectiveness of ICG-guided antihypertensive therapy in 12-weeks observation with respect to baseline blood pressure (BP). This analysis involved 272 patients with untreated AH, recruited in two randomized, prospective and controlled trials (www.nauka-polska.pl: ID227062 and ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01996085). After baseline evaluation including office blood pressure measurement (OBPM: OSBP, ODBP, OMBP) and ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM: 24-mean_SBP, 24-mean_DBP) the subjects were randomly assigned to groups of: [GE] empiric and [HD] ICG-guided antihypertensive therapy. The effectiveness of ICG-guided therapy was evaluated after 12 weeks in subgroups derived from median of OMBP (110 mmHg) of: higher (n = 120) and lower baseline OMBP (n = 121). The comparative analysis included absolute change of BP (d_OSBP, d_ODBP, d_24-mean_SBP, d_24-mean_DBP) and percentage of patients with change of BP equal or higher than 10 mmHg (d10_OSBP, d10_ODBP, d10_24-mean_SBP, d10_24-mean_DBP). In the whole study group the BP reduction in HD group was higher than in GE group: d_OSBP (18.3 vs. 14.3 mmHg; p = 0.011), d_ODBP (11.9 vs. 8.5 mmHg; p = 0.011), d_24-mean SBP (15.9 vs. 11.6 mmHg; p = 0.011) and d_24-mean SBP (10.4 vs. 8.9 mmHg; p = 0.147). However, the effect of ICG-guided therapy was significantly more pronounced in subjects with higher baseline OMBP - Table.(Figure is included in full-text article.) : The ICG-guided therapy effects with increased BP reduction in patients with AH, especially those with higher baseline BP. The patients with advanced AH can benefit more from individual these therapeutic approach.

SIMULATED HUMAN ERROR PROBABILITY AND ITS APPLICATION TO DYNAMIC HUMAN FAILURE EVENTS

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

Herberger, Sarah M.; Boring, Ronald L.

Abstract Objectives: Human reliability analysis (HRA) methods typically analyze human failure events (HFEs) at the overall task level. For dynamic HRA, it is important to model human activities at the subtask level. There exists a disconnect between dynamic subtask level and static task level that presents issues when modeling dynamic scenarios. For example, the SPAR-H method is typically used to calculate the human error probability (HEP) at the task level. As demonstrated in this paper, quantification in SPAR-H does not translate to the subtask level. Methods: Two different discrete distributions were generated for each SPAR-H Performance Shaping Factor (PSF) tomore » define the frequency of PSF levels. The first distribution was a uniform, or uninformed distribution that assumed the frequency of each PSF level was equally likely. The second non-continuous distribution took the frequency of PSF level as identified from an assessment of the HERA database. These two different approaches were created to identify the resulting distribution of the HEP. The resulting HEP that appears closer to the known distribution, a log-normal centered on 1E-3, is the more desirable. Each approach then has median, average and maximum HFE calculations applied. To calculate these three values, three events, A, B and C are generated from the PSF level frequencies comprised of subtasks. The median HFE selects the median PSF level from each PSF and calculates HEP. The average HFE takes the mean PSF level, and the maximum takes the maximum PSF level. The same data set of subtask HEPs yields starkly different HEPs when aggregated to the HFE level in SPAR-H. Results: Assuming that each PSF level in each HFE is equally likely creates an unrealistic distribution of the HEP that is centered at 1. Next the observed frequency of PSF levels was applied with the resulting HEP behaving log-normally with a majority of the values under 2.5% HEP. The median, average and maximum HFE calculations did yield different answers for the HFE. The HFE maximum grossly over estimates the HFE, while the HFE distribution occurs less than HFE median, and greater than HFE average. Conclusions: Dynamic task modeling can be perused through the framework of SPAR-H. Identification of distributions associated with each PSF needs to be defined, and may change depending upon the scenario. However it is very unlikely that each PSF level is equally likely as the resulting HEP distribution is strongly centered at 100%, which is unrealistic. Other distributions may need to be identified for PSFs, to facilitate the transition to dynamic task modeling. Additionally discrete distributions need to be exchanged for continuous so that simulations for the HFE can further advance. This paper provides a method to explore dynamic subtask to task translation and provides examples of the process using the SPAR-H method.« less

Dietary Almonds Increase Serum HDL Cholesterol in Coronary Artery Disease Patients in a Randomized Controlled Trial.

PubMed

Jamshed, Humaira; Sultan, Fateh Ali Tipoo; Iqbal, Romaina; Gilani, Anwar Hassan

2015-10-01

More than one-half of coronary artery disease (CAD) patients have low HDL cholesterol despite having well-managed LDL cholesterol. Almond supplementation has not been shown to elevate circulating HDL cholesterol concentrations in clinical trials, perhaps because the baseline HDL cholesterol of trial subjects was not low. This clinical trial was designed to test the effect of almond supplementation on low HDL cholesterol in CAD patients. A total of 150 CAD patients (50 per group), with serum LDL cholesterol ≤100 mg/dL and HDL cholesterol ≤40 mg/dL in men and ≤50 mg/dL in women, were recruited from the Aga Khan University Hospital. After recording vital signs and completing a dietary and physical activity questionnaire, patients were randomly assigned to 1 of the following 3 groups: the no-intervention group (NI), the Pakistani almonds group (PA), and the American almonds group (AA). The respective almond varieties (10 g/d) were given to patients with instructions to soak them overnight, remove the skin, and eat them before breakfast. Blood samples for lipid profiling, body weight, and blood pressure were collected, and assessment of dietary patterns was done at baseline, week 6, and week 12. Almonds significantly increased HDL cholesterol. At weeks 6 and 12, HDL cholesterol was 12-14% and 14-16% higher, respectively, in the PA and AA than their respective baselines. In line with previous reports, serum concentrations of total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, and VLDL cholesterol; total-to-HDL and LDL-to-HDL cholesterol ratios, and the atherogenic index were reduced in both the PA and AA at weeks 6 and 12 compared with baseline (P < 0.05). Effects on serum lipids did not differ between the 2 almond groups. Dietary patterns, body weight, and blood pressure did not change in any of the 3 groups during the trial. A low dose of almonds (10 g/d) consumed before breakfast can increase HDL cholesterol, in addition to improving other markers of abnormal lipid metabolism in CAD patients with low initial HDL cholesterol. This trial was registered at the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry as ACTRN12614000036617. © 2015 American Society for Nutrition.

Oral Iron Supplementation After Blood Donation

PubMed Central

Kiss, Joseph E.; Brambilla, Donald; Glynn, Simone A.; Mast, Alan E.; Spencer, Bryan R.; Stone, Mars; Kleinman, Steven H.; Cable, Ritchard G.

2016-01-01

IMPORTANCE Although blood donation is allowed every 8 weeks in the United States, recovery of hemoglobin to the currently accepted standard (12.5 g/dL) is frequently delayed, and some donors become anemic. OBJECTIVE To determine the effect of oral iron supplementation on hemoglobin recovery time (days to recovery of 80% of hemoglobin removed) and recovery of iron stores in iron-depleted (“low ferritin,” ≤26 ng/mL) and iron-replete (“higher ferritin,” >26 ng/mL) blood donors. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS Randomized, nonblinded clinical trial of blood donors stratified by ferritin level, sex, and age conducted in 4 regional blood centers in the United States in 2012. Included were 215 eligible participants aged 18 to 79 years who had not donated whole blood or red blood cells within 4 months. INTERVENTIONS One tablet of ferrous gluconate (37.5 mg of elemental iron) daily or no iron for 24 weeks (168 days) after donating a unit of whole blood (500 mL). MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Time to recovery of 80% of the postdonation decrease in hemoglobin and recovery of ferritin level to baseline as a measure of iron stores. RESULTS The mean baseline hemoglobin levels were comparable in the iron and no-iron groups and declined from a mean (SD) of 13.4 (1.1) g/dL to 12.0 (1.2) g/dL after donation in the low-ferritin group and from 14.2 (1.1) g/dL to 12.9 (1.2) g/dL in the higher-ferritin group. Compared with participants who did not receive iron supplementation, those who received iron supplementation had shortened time to 80% hemoglobin recovery in both the low-ferritin and higher-ferritin groups. Recovery of iron stores in all participants who received supplements took a median of 76 days (IQR, 20–126); for participants not taking iron, median recovery time was longer than 168 days (IQR, 147->168 days; P < .001). Without iron supplements, 67% of participants did not recover iron stores by 168 days. Low-Ferritin Group (≤26 ng/mL) Higher-Ferritin Group (>26 ng/mL) IronNo IronIronNo Iron Time to 80% hemoglobin recovery, mean (IQR), d32 (30–34)158 (126–>168)31 (29–33)78 (66–95) Time to recovery of baseline ferritin levels, median (IQR), d21 (12–84)>168 (128–>168)107 (75–141)>168 (>168–>168) CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Among blood donors with normal hemoglobin levels, low-dose iron supplementation, compared with no supplementation, reduced time to 80% recovery of the postdonation decrease in hemoglobin concentration in donors with low ferritin (≤26 ng/mL) or higher ferritin (>26 ng/mL). TRIAL REGISTRATION clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01555060 PMID:25668261

Body composition and hematological changes following ascents of Mt. Aconcagua and Mt. Everest.

PubMed

Wagner, Dale R

2010-11-01

Both Mt. Aconcagua (22,841.2 ft/6962 m) and Mt. Everest (29,035.4 ft/ 8850 m) are highly prized summits by mountaineers, yet there are no published studies comparing the physiological adaptations that occur from climbing both peaks. This case study compares the changes in body composition and hematology of a mountaineer who ascended both peaks. The male subject was 41 yr of age during the Aconcagua ascent and 43 yr of age during the Everest ascent, and had a history of ascents above 19,685 ft (6000 m). Baseline body composition measurements and blood draws were done within a few days of departure for both expeditions. Body composition was assessed by air displacement plethysmography and the blood draw consisted of a complete blood count (CBC). Post-expedition measurements were taken 10-14 d after reaching the summits. The ascent of Aconcagua resulted in a 2.0-kg drop in body mass and a reduction in body fat (15.5% to 12.1%), but blood chemistry remained within +/- 2% of baseline values. Body mass was reduced from 65.0 kg to 60.5 kg during the Everest expedition with a drop in body fat from 17.3% to 10.2%. Despite no change in RBCs there were increases in hemoglobin and mean corpuscular hemoglobin of 12.7% and 13.7%, respectively. It took the subject 12 d to reach the summit of Aconcagua, whereas it took 50 d to reach the summit of Everest. The longer duration at higher altitude for the Everest expedition resulted in more dramatic physiological changes.

Intelligent Engine Systems Work Element 1.3: Sub System Health Management

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ashby, Malcolm; Simpson, Jeffrey; Singh, Anant; Ferguson, Emily; Frontera, mark

2005-01-01

The objectives of this program were to develop health monitoring systems and physics-based fault detection models for engine sub-systems including the start, lubrication, and fuel. These models will ultimately be used to provide more effective sub-system fault identification and isolation to reduce engine maintenance costs and engine down-time. Additionally, the bearing sub-system health is addressed in this program through identification of sensing requirements, a review of available technologies and a demonstration of a demonstration of a conceptual monitoring system for a differential roller bearing. This report is divided into four sections; one for each of the subtasks. The start system subtask is documented in section 2.0, the oil system is covered in section 3.0, bearing in section 4.0, and the fuel system is presented in section 5.0.

Prior opioid exposure influences parents' sharing of their children's CYP2D6 research results.

PubMed

Myers, Melanie F; Zhang, Xue; McLaughlin, Brooke; Kissell, Diane; Perry, Cassandra L; Veerkamp, Matthew; Zhang, Kejian; Holm, Ingrid A; Prows, Cynthia A

2017-08-01

To determine parents' use of their children's CYP2D6 research result. We hypothesized that perceived utility, likelihood of sharing and actual sharing of results would differ between parents with children previously exposed (cases) or unexposed (controls) to opioids. We returned results by phone (baseline). We surveyed parents about perceived utility and likelihood of sharing their child's research result at baseline, and actual sharing at 3 and 12 months. Cases were more likely than controls to agree that they (p = 0.022) and the doctors (p = 0.041) could use the results to care for their child, to report higher likelihood of sharing (p = 0.042) and to actually share results with the child's doctor (p = 0.026). Prior opioid exposure influenced perceived clinical utility and sharing behaviors.

Energy-Efficient Scheduling for Hybrid Tasks in Control Devices for the Internet of Things

PubMed Central

Gao, Zhigang; Wu, Yifan; Dai, Guojun; Xia, Haixia

2012-01-01

In control devices for the Internet of Things (IoT), energy is one of the critical restriction factors. Dynamic voltage scaling (DVS) has been proved to be an effective method for reducing the energy consumption of processors. This paper proposes an energy-efficient scheduling algorithm for IoT control devices with hard real-time control tasks (HRCTs) and soft real-time tasks (SRTs). The main contribution of this paper includes two parts. First, it builds the Hybrid tasks with multi-subtasks of different function Weight (HoW) task model for IoT control devices. HoW describes the structure of HRCTs and SRTs, and their properties, e.g., deadlines, execution time, preemption properties, and energy-saving goals, etc. Second, it presents the Hybrid Tasks' Dynamic Voltage Scaling (HTDVS) algorithm. HTDVS first sets the slowdown factors of subtasks while meeting the different real-time requirements of HRCTs and SRTs, and then dynamically reclaims, reserves, and reuses the slack time of the subtasks to meet their ideal energy-saving goals. Experimental results show HTDVS can reduce energy consumption about 10%–80% while meeting the real-time requirements of HRCTs, HRCTs help to reduce the deadline miss ratio (DMR) of systems, and HTDVS has comparable performance with the greedy algorithm and is more favorable to keep the subtasks' ideal speeds. PMID:23112659

Dietary supplementation with d-tagatose in subjects with type 2 diabetes leads to weight loss and raises high-density lipoprotein cholesterol.

PubMed

Donner, Thomas W; Magder, Laurence S; Zarbalian, Kiarash

2010-12-01

Oral d-tagatose (d-tag) attenuates the rise in plasma glucose during an oral glucose tolerance test in subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) and reduces food intake in healthy human subjects. A reduction in food consumption and less weight gain occur in rats fed tagatose. This pilot study explored the metabolic effects of d-tag given daily to 8 human subjects with type 2 DM for 1 year. We hypothesized that this treatment period would lead to weight loss and improvements in glycated hemoglobin and the lipid profile. A 2-month run-in period was followed by a 12-month treatment period when 15 g of oral d-tag was taken 3 times daily with food. No serious adverse effects were seen during the 12-month treatment period. Ten of the initially 12 recruited subjects experienced gastrointestinal side effects that tended to be mild and transient. When 3 subjects were excluded who had oral diabetes, medications added and/or dosages increased during the study and mean (SD) body weight declined from 108.4 (9.0) to 103.3 (7.3) kg (P = .001). Glycated hemoglobin fell nonsignificantly from 10.6% ± 1.9% to 9.6% ± 2.3% (P = .08). High-density lipoprotein cholesterol progressively rose from a baseline level of 30.5 ± 15.8 to 41.7 ± 12.1 mg/dL at month 12 in the 6 subjects who did not have lipid-modifying medications added during the study (P < .001). Significant improvements in body weight and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol in this pilot study suggest that d-tag may be a potentially useful adjunct in the management of patients with type 2 DM. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Improved plasma amino acids pattern following 12 months of supplemented low-protein diet in peritoneal dialysis patients.

PubMed

Jiang, Na; Qian, Jiaqi; Lin, Aiwu; Fang, Wei; Cao, Liou; Wang, Qin; Ni, Zhaohui; Lindholm, Bengt; Axelsson, Jonas; Yao, Qiang

2010-07-01

Decreased plasma essential amino acid (EAA) levels, increased nonessential amino acid (NEAA) levels, and low EAA to NEAA ratio (E/NEAA) are common in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients and may impact uremic complications. In the present study, we investigate the impact of keto acids-supplemented low-protein (sLP) diet on plasma amino acids (AAs) patterns in stable PD patients. This is a supplemental analysis of a previously published prospective and randomized trial. Thirty-nine PD patients selected from the original population were divided to receive either low (LP: 0.6-0.8 g/kg ideal body weight [IBW]/d, n = 13), keto acids-supplemented low- (sLP: 0.6-0.8 g/kg IBW/d + 0.12 g/kg IBW/d of keto acids, n = 12), or high- (HP: 1.0-1.2 g/kg IBW/d, n = 14) protein diets and followed for 1 year. Plasma AA patterns were assessed at baseline and 12 months using high-performance liquid chromatography. Whereas there were no significant differences between the three groups at baseline, following 12 months, the E/NEAA had increased significantly in group sLP (0.58 +/- 0.16 to 0.83 +/- 0.20, p < 0.05), but was not different in either LP (0.62 +/- 0.20 to 0.72 +/- 0.13, p = ns) or HP (0.66 +/- 0.14 to 0.74 +/- 0.12, p = ns) group. This change in E/NEAA in group sLP was due to a significant decrease in NEAA concomitantly with maintained EAA levels, whereas in the other two groups, neither EAA nor NEAA changed significantly. A low-protein diet supplemented with keto acids significantly improved the pattern of plasma AA in prevalent PD patients.

Self-refraction, ready-made glasses and quality of life among rural myopic Chinese children: a non-inferiority randomized trial.

PubMed

Zhou, Zhongqiang; Chen, Tingting; Jin, Ling; Zheng, Dongxing; Chen, Shangji; He, Mingguang; Silver, Josh; Ellwein, Leon; Moore, Bruce; Congdon, Nathan G

2017-09-01

To study, for the first time, the effect of wearing ready-made glasses and glasses with power determined by self-refraction on children's quality of life. This is a randomized, double-masked non-inferiority trial. Children in grades 7 and 8 (age 12-15 years) in nine Chinese secondary schools, with presenting visual acuity (VA) ≤6/12 improved with refraction to ≥6/7.5 bilaterally, refractive error ≤-1.0 D and <2.0 D of anisometropia and astigmatism bilaterally, were randomized to receive ready-made spectacles (RM) or identical-appearing spectacles with power determined by: subjective cycloplegic retinoscopy by a university optometrist (U), a rural refractionist (R) or non-cycloplegic self-refraction (SR). Main study outcome was global score on the National Eye Institute Refractive Error Quality of Life-42 (NEI-RQL-42) after 2 months of wearing study glasses, comparing other groups with the U group, adjusting for baseline score. Only one child (0.18%) was excluded for anisometropia or astigmatism. A total of 426 eligible subjects (mean age 14.2 years, 84.5% without glasses at baseline) were allocated to U [103 (24.2%)], RM [113 (26.5%)], R [108 (25.4%)] and SR [102 (23.9%)] groups, respectively. Baseline and endline score data were available for 398 (93.4%) of subjects. In multiple regression models adjusting for baseline score, older age (p = 0.003) and baseline spectacle wear (p = 0.016), but not study group assignment, were significantly associated with lower final score. Quality of life wearing ready-mades or glasses based on self-refraction did not differ from that with cycloplegic refraction by an experienced optometrist in this non-inferiority trial. © 2016 Acta Ophthalmologica Scandinavica Foundation. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

The Effect of Vitamin D Supplementation on Glycemic Control in Type 2 Diabetes Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

PubMed Central

Liu, Yan; Zheng, Yingdong; Wang, Peiyu

2018-01-01

Observational studies have indicated an inverse association between vitamin D levels and the risk of diabetes, yet evidence from population interventions remains inconsistent. PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched up to September 2017. Data from studies regarding serum 25(OH)D, fasting blood glucose (FBG), hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), fasting insulin and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) were pooled. Twenty studies (n = 2703) were included in the meta-analysis. Vitamin D supplementation resulted in a significant improvement in serum 25(OH)D levels (weighted mean difference (WMD) = 33.98; 95%CI: 24.60–43.37) and HOMA-IR (standardized mean difference (SMD) = −0.57; 95%CI: −1.09~−0.04), but not in other outcomes. However, preferred changes were observed in subgroups as follows: short-term (WMDFBG = −8.44; 95%CI: −12.72~−4.15), high dose (WMDFBG = −8.70; 95%CI: −12.96~−4.44), non-obese (SMDFasting insulin = −1.80; 95%CI: −2.66~−0.95), Middle Easterners (WMDFBG = −10.43; 95%CI: −14.80~−6.06), baseline vitamin D deficient individuals (WMDFBG = −5.77; 95%CI: −10.48~−1.05) and well-controlled HbA1c individuals (WMDFBG = −4.09; 95%CI: −15.44~7.27). Vitamin D supplementation was shown to increase serum 25(OH)D and reduce insulin resistance effectively. This effect was especially prominent when vitamin D was given in large doses and for a short period of time, and to patients who were non-obese, Middle Eastern, vitamin D deficient, or with optimal glycemic control at baseline. PMID:29562681

Impact of Three Doses of Vitamin D3 on Serum 25(OH)D Deficiency and Insufficiency in At-Risk Schoolchildren.

PubMed

Sacheck, Jennifer M; Van Rompay, Maria I; Chomitz, Virginia R; Economos, Christina D; Eliasziw, Misha; Goodman, Elizabeth; Gordon, Catherine M; Holick, Michael F

2017-12-01

We investigated the daily dose of vitamin D needed to achieve serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] sufficiency among schoolchildren at risk for deficiency. The Daily D Health Study was a randomized double-blind vitamin D supplementation trial among racially/ethnically diverse schoolchildren (n = 685) in the northeastern United States. Children were supplemented with vitamin D3 at 600, 1000, or 2000 IU/d for 6 months. Measurements included serum 25(OH)D at baseline (October to December), 3 months (January to March), 6 months (April to June), and 12 months (6 months after supplementation). At baseline, mean ± standard deviation serum 25(OH)D level was 22.0 ± 6.8 ng/mL, with 5.5% severely vitamin D deficient (<12 ng/mL), 34.1% deficient (12 to 19 ng/mL), 49.0% insufficient (20 to 29 ng/mL), and 11.4% sufficient (≥30 ng/mL). The lowest levels of serum 25(OH)D were found among black (17.9 ± 6.7 ng/mL) and Asian children (18.9 ± 4.8 ng/mL), with no baseline differences by weight status. Serum 25(OH)D increased over 6 months in all three dose groups. The 2000 IU/d group achieved a higher mean serum 25(OH)D level than the other two dose groups (33.1 vs 26.3 and 27.5 ng/mL; P < 0.001), with 59.9% of this group attaining sufficiency at 3 months and only 5.3% remaining severely deficient/deficient at 6 months. All dose groups demonstrated a fall in 25(OH)D at 12 months. Children at risk for vitamin D deficiency benefited from daily sustained supplementation of 2000 IU/d compared with lower doses closer to the current recommended daily allowance for vitamin D intake. This benefit occurred over the winter months, when serum 25(OH)D level tend to fall. Copyright © 2017 Endocrine Society

Consumption of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BB-12 in yogurt reduced expression of TLR-2 on peripheral blood-derived monocytes and pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion in young adults.

PubMed

Meng, Huicui; Ba, Zhaoyong; Lee, Yujin; Peng, Jiayu; Lin, Junli; Fleming, Jennifer A; Furumoto, Emily J; Roberts, Robert F; Kris-Etherton, Penny M; Rogers, Connie J

2017-03-01

Probiotic bacteria modulate immune parameters and inflammatory outcomes. Emerging evidence demonstrates that the matrix used to deliver probiotics may influence the efficacy of probiotic interventions in vivo. The aims of the current study were to evaluate (1) the effect of one species, Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BB-12 at a dose of log10 ± 0.5 CFUs/day on immune responses in a randomized, partially blinded, 4-period crossover, free-living study, and (2) whether the immune response to BB-12 differed depending on the delivery matrix. Healthy adults (n = 30) aged 18-40 years were recruited and received four treatments in a random order: (A) yogurt smoothie alone; smoothie with BB-12 added (B) before or (C) after yogurt fermentation, or (D) BB-12 given in capsule form. At baseline and after each 4-week treatment, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated, and functional and phenotypic marker expression was assessed. BB-12 interacted with peripheral myeloid cells via Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR-2). The percentage of CD14 + HLA-DR + cells in peripheral blood was increased in male participants by all yogurt-containing treatments compared to baseline (p = 0.0356). Participants who consumed yogurt smoothie with BB-12 added post-fermentation had significantly lower expression of TLR-2 on CD14 + HLA-DR + cells (p = 0.0186) and reduction in TNF-α secretion from BB-12- (p = 0.0490) or LPS-stimulated (p = 0.0387) PBMCs compared to baseline. These findings not only demonstrate a potential anti-inflammatory effect of BB-12 in healthy adults, but also indicate that the delivery matrix influences the immunomodulatory properties of BB-12.

A Randomized Trial of Vitamin D Supplementation in Two Community Health Center Networks in South Carolina

PubMed Central

WAGNER, Carol L.; MCNEIL, Rebecca; HAMILTON, Stuart A.; WINKLER, Joyce; COOK, Carolina Rodriguez; WARNER, Gloria; BIVENS, Betty; DAVIS, Deborah J.; SMITH, Pamela G.; MURPHY, Martha; SHARY, Judy; HOLLIS, Bruce W.

2015-01-01

Objective To determine whether 4000 IU vitamin D3/day (vs. 2000 IU/day) during pregnancy is safe and improves maternal/neonatal 25(OH)D in a dose-dependent manner. Study Design 257 pregnant women 12–16 weeks’ gestation were enrolled. Randomization to 2000- vs. 4000 IU/day followed one-month run-in at 2000 IU/day. Participants were monitored for hypercalciuria, hypercalcemia and 25(OH)D status. Results Maternal 25(OH)D (n=161) increased from 22.7(SD 9.7) at baseline to 36.2(SD 15) and 37.9(SD 13.5) in the 2000- and 4000 IU groups, respectively. While maternal 25(OH)D change from baseline did not differ between groups, 25(OH)D monthly increase differed between groups (p<0.01). No supplementation-related adverse events occurred. Mean cord blood 25(OH)D (ng/mL) was 22.1±10.3 in 2000- and 27.0±13.3 in 4000 IU group (p=0.024). After controlling for race and study site, preterm birth and labor were inversely associated with pre-delivery- and mean 25(OH)D, but not baseline 25(OH)D,. Conclusions Maternal supplementation with 2000 and 4000 IU vitamin D/day during pregnancy improved maternal/neonatal vitamin D status. Evidence of risk reduction in infection, preterm labor and preterm birth was suggestive, requiring additional studies powered for these endpoints. PMID:23131462

Vitamin D Modulates Expression of the Airway Smooth Muscle Transcriptome in Fatal Asthma

PubMed Central

Johnson, Martin; Nikolos, Christina; Jester, William; Klanderman, Barbara; Litonjua, Augusto A.; Tantisira, Kelan G.; Truskowski, Kevin; MacDonald, Kevin; Panettieri, Reynold A.; Weiss, Scott T.

2015-01-01

Globally, asthma is a chronic inflammatory respiratory disease affecting over 300 million people. Some asthma patients remain poorly controlled by conventional therapies and experience more life-threatening exacerbations. Vitamin D, as an adjunct therapy, may improve disease control in severe asthma patients since vitamin D enhances glucocorticoid responsiveness and mitigates airway smooth muscle (ASM) hyperplasia. We sought to characterize differences in transcriptome responsiveness to vitamin D between fatal asthma- and non-asthma-derived ASM by using RNA-Seq to measure ASM transcript expression in five donors with fatal asthma and ten non-asthma-derived donors at baseline and with vitamin D treatment. Based on a Benjamini-Hochberg corrected p-value <0.05, 838 genes were differentially expressed in fatal asthma vs. non-asthma-derived ASM at baseline, and vitamin D treatment compared to baseline conditions induced differential expression of 711 and 867 genes in fatal asthma- and non-asthma-derived ASM, respectively. Functional gene categories that were highly represented in all groups included extracellular matrix, and responses to steroid hormone stimuli and wounding. Genes differentially expressed by vitamin D also included cytokine and chemokine activity categories. Follow-up qPCR and individual analyte ELISA experiments were conducted for four cytokines (i.e. CCL2, CCL13, CXCL12, IL8) to measure TNFα-induced changes by asthma status and vitamin D treatment. Vitamin D inhibited TNFα-induced IL8 protein secretion levels to a comparable degree in fatal asthma- and non-asthma-derived ASM even though IL8 had significantly higher baseline levels in fatal asthma-derived ASM. Our findings identify vitamin D-specific gene targets and provide transcriptomic data to explore differences in the ASM of fatal asthma- and non-asthma-derived donors. PMID:26207385

Lackland Air Force Base Phase II Uniform Issue: Baseline Report

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-05-01

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Plasma profile of microRNA after supplementation with high doses of vitamin D3 for 12 months

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Recently a large number of short non-coding-RNAs (microRNAs, (miRNA)) have been identified. These miRNAs act as post-transcriptional regulators where they generally have an inhibitory function. miRNAs are present in all human cells, and they are also detected in serum or plasma. The miRNAs have a broad range of actions, and their biogenesis must therefore be under tight control. One putative regulator of miRNA biogenesis or miRNA level could be vitamin D, an ancient hormone with effects on cell growth and differentiation, apoptosis and the immune system. In our study miRNA were reversed transcribed in total RNA isolated from plasma and analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) using the miRCURY LNA Universal RT microRNA PCR system (Exiqon). In 10 pilot subjects 136 miRNAs were detected in one or more plasma samples drawn at baseline and after 12 months of vitamin D supplementation. The twelve miRNAs that showed the greatest change in expression in these pilots were further analyzed by RT-qPCR of RNA from baseline and 12 months plasma samples in 40 subjects given high dose vitamin D3 (20.000 – 40.000 IU per week) and 37 subjects given placebo. Results At baseline there was a significant and positive correlation between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D and miR-532-3p expression (r = 0.24, P = 0.04). The change in expression of miR-221 from baseline to 12 months (ddCp value) was also significantly different between the vitamin D and placebo group (P =0.04), mainly due to a change in the placebo group. Conclusions We have not been able to demonstrate a consistent effect of vitamin D supplementation on the expression profile of miRNA in plasma. However, further studies are needed as this approach might potentially throw light on unknown aspects of vitamin D physiology. PMID:22594500

Feasibility and preliminary efficacy of high intensity interval training in type 2 diabetes.

PubMed

Terada, Tasuku; Friesen, Alanna; Chahal, Baljot S; Bell, Gordon J; McCargar, Linda J; Boulé, Normand G

2013-02-01

To compare the feasibility of high intensity interval exercise (HI-IE) versus moderate intensity continuous exercise (MI-CE) in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D), and to investigate the preliminary efficacy of HI-IE and MI-CE for improving glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and body composition. Individuals with T2D were recruited and randomly assigned to HI-IE and MI-CE. Exercise training was performed 5 days per week for 12 weeks. Recruitment, retention, adherence, feeling states and self-efficacy were analyzed for feasibility. Changes in HbA1c and percent body fat from baseline were investigated at 12 weeks to determine the preliminary efficacy. Of 126 participants showing interest to join the study, 15 individuals were randomized and completed the program. No participants dropped out from the study after enrollment. Adherence rates were high and did not differ between HI-IE and MI-CE (p>0.05; >97.2% of the eligible exercise sessions for both groups). Feeling states and self-efficacy did not differ between the groups. Percent trunk fat decreased in both HI-IE and MI-CE (p=0.007 and 0.085, respectively). Total percent body fat, percent leg fat, and subcutaneous fat width were significantly reduced in both groups (p<0.05), whereas HbA1c did not change from baseline (p>0.05). The degree of improvement was similar between the interventions (p>0.05). In individuals with T2D, implementing a 12-week structured HI-IE training can be as feasible as MI-CE training. Both interventions are equally effective in lowering total body fat but have little impact on HbA1c in relatively well controlled participants with T2D. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Early Urinary Markers of Diabetic Kidney Disease: A Nested Case-Control Study From the Diabetes Control and Complications Trial (DCCT)

PubMed Central

Kern, Elizabeth O; Erhard, Penny; Sun, Wanjie; Genuth, Saul; Weiss, Miriam F

2010-01-01

Background Urinary markers were tested as predictors of macroalbuminuria or microalbuminuria in type 1 diabetes. Study Design Nested case:control of participants in the Diabetes Control and Complications Trial (DCCT) Setting & Participants Eighty-seven cases of microalbuminuria were matched to 174 controls in a 1:2 ratio, while 4 cases were matched to 4 controls in a 1:1 ratio, resulting in 91 cases and 178 controls for microalbuminuria. Fifty-five cases of macroalbuminuria were matched to 110 controls in a 1:2 ratio. Controls were free of micro/macroalbuminuria when their matching case first developed micro/macroalbuminuria. Predictors Urinary N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase, pentosidine, AGE fluorescence, albumin excretion rate (AER) Outcomes Incident microalbuminuria (two consecutive annual AER > 40 but <= 300 mg/day), or macroalbuminuria (AER > 300 mg/day) Measurements Stored urine samples from DCCT entry, and 1–9 years later when macroalbuminuria or microalbuminuria occurred, were measured for the lysosomal enzyme, N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase, and the advanced glycosylation end-products (AGEs) pentosidine and AGE-fluorescence. AER and adjustor variables were obtained from the DCCT. Results Sub-microalbuminuric levels of AER at baseline independently predicted microalbuminuria (adjusted OR 1.83; p<.001) and macroalbuminuria (adjusted OR 1.82; p<.001). Baseline N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase independently predicted macroalbuminuria (adjusted OR 2.26; p<.001), and microalbuminuria (adjusted OR 1.86; p<.001). Baseline pentosidine predicted macroalbuminuria (adjusted OR 6.89; p=.002). Baseline AGE fluorescence predicted microalbuminuria (adjusted OR 1.68; p=.02). However, adjusted for N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase, pentosidine and AGE-fluorescence lost predictive association with macroalbuminuria and microalbuminuria, respectively. Limitations Use of angiotensin converting-enzyme inhibitors was not directly ascertained, although their use was proscribed during the DCCT. Conclusions Early in type 1 diabetes, repeated measurements of AER and urinary NAG may identify individuals susceptible to future diabetic nephropathy. Combining the two markers may yield a better predictive model than either one alone. Renal tubule stress may be more severe, reflecting abnormal renal tubule processing of AGE-modified proteins, among individuals susceptible to diabetic nephropathy. PMID:20138413

Serum Carbon Isotope Values Change in Adults in Response to Changes in Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Intake12

PubMed Central

Fakhouri, Tala H. I.; Jahren, A. Hope; Appel, Lawrence J.; Chen, Liwei; Alavi, Reza; Anderson, Cheryl A. M.

2014-01-01

Serum carbon isotope values [13C-to-12C serum carbon isotope ratio (δ13C)], which reflect consumption of corn- and cane-based foods, differ between persons consuming high and low amounts of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs). In this study, we determined whether serum δ13C changes in response to change in SSB intake during an 18-mo behavioral intervention trial. Data were from a subset of 144 participants from the PREMIER trial, a completed behavioral intervention (Maryland, 1998–2004). SSB intake was assessed using 2 24-h dietary recall interviews. Blinded serum samples were assayed for δ13C by natural abundance stable isotope mass spectroscopy. Multiple linear regression models with generalized estimating equations and robust variance estimation were used. At baseline, mean SSB intake was 13.8 ± 14.2 fl oz/d, and mean δ13C serum value was −19.3 ± 0.6 units per mil (designated ‰). A reduction of 12 oz (355 mL)/d SSB (equivalent to 1 can of soda per day) was associated with 0.17‰ (95% CI: 0.08‰, 0.25‰ P < 0.0001) reduction in serum δ13C values over 18 mo (equivalent to a 1% reduction in δ13C from baseline). After adjusting for potential confounders, a reduction of 12 oz/d SSB (equivalent to 1 can of soda per day), over an 18-mo period, was associated with 0.12‰ (95% CI: 0.01‰, 0.22‰ P = 0.025) reduction in serum δ13C. These findings suggest that serum δ13C can be used as a measure of dietary changes in SSB intake. PMID:24717368

Feasibility of flywheel energy storage systems for applications in future space missions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Santo, G. Espiritu; Gill, S. P.; Kotas, J. F.; Paschall, R.

1995-01-01

The objective of this study was to examine the overall feasibility of deploying electromechanical flywheel systems in space used for excess energy storage. Results of previous Rocketdyne studies have shown that the flywheel concept has a number of advantages over the NiH2 battery, including higher specific energy, longer life and high roundtrip efficiency. Based on this prior work, this current study was broken into four subtasks. The first subtask investigated the feasibility of replacing the NiH2 battery orbital replacement unit (ORU) on the international space station (ISSA) with a flywheel ORU. In addition, a conceptual design of a generic flywheel demonstrator experiment implemented on the ISSA was completed. An assessment of the life cycle cost benefits of replacing the station battery energy storage ORU's with flywheel ORU's was performed. A fourth task generated a top-level development plan for critical flywheel technologies, the flywheel demonstrator experiments and its evolution into the production unit flywheel replacement ORU.

Determination of discretionary salt intake in rural Guatemala and Benin to determine the iodine fortification of salt required to control iodine deficiency disorders: studies using lithium-labeled salt.

PubMed

Melse-Boonstra, A; Rozendaal, M; Rexwinkel, H; Gerichhausen, M J; van den Briel, T; Bulux, J; Solomons, N W; West, C E

1998-09-01

The use of discretionary salt, which is salt added during cooking and at the table, as a suitable vehicle for iodine intake was assessed by measuring salt consumption using the lithium-marker technique in rural areas of Guatemala and Benin. In both countries, we studied boys aged 6-12 y and their mothers. Subjects used lithium-labeled salt after all unlabeled salt was removed from their households. In Guatemala, 24-h urine samples for 9 mother-son pairs were collected at baseline and on days 7, 8, and 9 during the use of lithium-labeled salt. Total maternal salt intake averaged 5.2 +/- 1.7 g/d (mean +/- SD), of which 77 +/- 24% came from discretionary sources, whereas Guatemalan boys consumed 1.8 +/- 0.6 g salt/d, of which 72 +/- 12% came from discretionary sources. In Benin, urine collection from 13 mother-son pairs took place at baseline and on days 5 and 7. Beninese mothers had a total salt intake of 9.0 +/- 2.9 g/d and their sons had an intake of 5.7 +/- 2.8 g/d; discretionary salt contributed 52 +/- 14% and 50 +/- 13%, respectively, of total salt consumed. Therefore, fortification of household salt appears to be an appropriate method of controlling iodine deficiency in both countries, although fortification of other salt sources could be considered in Benin.

Baseline Polymorphisms and Emergence of Drug Resistance in the NS3/4A Protease of Hepatitis C Virus Genotype 1 following Treatment with Faldaprevir and Pegylated Interferon Alpha 2a/Ribavirin in Phase 2 and Phase 3 Studies.

PubMed

Berger, K L; Scherer, J; Ranga, M; Sha, N; Stern, J O; Quinson, A-M; Kukolj, G

2015-10-01

Analysis of data pooled from multiple phase 2 (SILEN-C1 to 3) and phase 3 studies (STARTVerso1 to 4) of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) nonstructural protein 3/4A (NS3/4A) protease inhibitor faldaprevir plus pegylated interferon alpha/ribavirin (PR) provides a comprehensive evaluation of baseline and treatment-emergent NS3/4A amino acid variants among HCV genotype-1 (GT-1)-infected patients. Pooled analyses of GT-1a and GT-1b NS3 population-based pretreatment sequences (n = 3,124) showed that faldaprevir resistance-associated variants (RAVs) at NS3 R155 and D168 were rare (<1%). No single, noncanonical NS3 protease or NS4A cofactor baseline polymorphism was associated with a reduced sustained virologic response (SVR) to faldaprevir plus PR, including Q80K. The GT-1b NS3 helicase polymorphism T344I was associated with reduced SVR to faldaprevir plus PR (P < 0.0001) but was not faldaprevir specific, as reduced SVR was also observed with placebo plus PR. Among patients who did not achieve SVR and had available NS3 population sequences (n = 507 GT-1a; n = 349 GT-1b), 94% of GT-1a and 83% of GT-1b encoded faldaprevir treatment-emergent RAVs. The predominant GT-1a RAV was R155K (88%), whereas GT-1b encoded D168 substitutions (78%) in which D168V was predominant (67%). The novel GT-1b NS3 S61L substitution emerged in 7% of virologic failures as a covariant with D168V, most often among the faldaprevir breakthroughs; S61L in combination with D168V had a minimal impact on faldaprevir susceptibility compared with that for D168V alone (1.5-fold difference in vitro). The median time to loss of D168 RAVs among GT-1b-infected patients who did not have a sustained virologic response at 12 weeks posttreatment (non-SVR12) after virologic failure was 5 months, which was shorter than the 14 months for R155 RAVs among GT-1a-infected non-SVR12 patients, suggesting that D168V is less fit than R155K in the absence of faldaprevir selective pressure. Copyright © 2015, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

Comparative effectiveness of a portion-controlled meal replacement program for weight loss in adults with and without diabetes/high blood sugar.

PubMed

Coleman, C D; Kiel, J R; Mitola, A H; Arterburn, L M

2017-07-10

Individuals with type 2 diabetes (DM2) may be less successful at achieving therapeutic weight loss than their counterparts without diabetes. This study compares weight loss in a cohort of adults with DM2 or high blood sugar (D/HBS) to a cohort of adults without D/HBS. All were overweight/obese and following a reduced or low-calorie commercial weight-loss program incorporating meal replacements (MRs) and one-on-one behavioral support. Demographic, weight, body composition, anthropometric, pulse and blood pressure data were collected as part of systematic retrospective chart review studies. Differences between cohorts by D/HBS status were analyzed using Mann-Whitney U-tests and mixed model regression. A total of 816 charts were included (125 with self-reported D/HBS). The cohort with D/HBS had more males (40.8 vs 25.6%), higher BMI (39.0 vs 36.3 kg m - 2 ) and was older (56 vs 48 years). Among clients continuing on program, the cohorts with and without D/HBS lost, on average, 5.6 vs 5.8 kg (NS) (5.0 vs 5.6%; P=0.005) of baseline weight at 4 weeks, 11.0 vs 11.6 kg (NS) (9.9 vs 11.1%; P=0.027) at 12 weeks and 16.3 vs 17.1 kg (13.9 vs 15.7%; NS) at 24 weeks, respectively. In a mixed model regression controlling for baseline weight, gender and meal plan, and an intention-to-treat analysis, there was no significant difference in weight loss between the cohorts at any time point. Over 70% in both cohorts lost ⩾5% of their baseline weight by the final visit on their originally assigned meal plan. Both cohorts had significant reductions from baseline in body fat, blood pressure, pulse and abdominal circumference. Adults who were overweight/obese and with D/HBS following a commercial weight-loss program incorporating MRs and one-on-one behavioral support achieved therapeutic weight loss. The program was equally effective for weight loss and reductions in cardiometabolic risk factors among adults with and without D/HBS.

Impact of Genetic Testing and Family Health History Based Risk Counseling on Behavior Change and Cognitive Precursors for Type 2 Diabetes.

PubMed

Wu, R Ryanne; Myers, Rachel A; Hauser, Elizabeth R; Vorderstrasse, Allison; Cho, Alex; Ginsburg, Geoffrey S; Orlando, Lori A

2017-02-01

Family health history (FHH) in the context of risk assessment has been shown to positively impact risk perception and behavior change. The added value of genetic risk testing is less certain. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) FHH and genetic risk counseling on behavior and its cognitive precursors. Subjects were non-diabetic patients randomized to counseling that included FHH +/- T2D genetic testing. Measurements included weight, BMI, fasting glucose at baseline and 12 months and behavioral and cognitive precursor (T2D risk perception and control over disease development) surveys at baseline, 3, and 12 months. 391 subjects enrolled of which 312 completed the study. Behavioral and clinical outcomes did not differ across FHH or genetic risk but cognitive precursors did. Higher FHH risk was associated with a stronger perceived T2D risk (p Kendall  < 0.001) and with a perception of "serious" risk (p Kendall  < 0.001). Genetic risk did not influence risk perception, but was correlated with an increase in perception of "serious" risk for moderate (p Kendall  = 0.04) and average FHH risk subjects (p Kendall  = 0.01), though not for the high FHH risk group. Perceived control over T2D risk was high and not affected by FHH or genetic risk. FHH appears to have a strong impact on cognitive precursors of behavior change, suggesting it could be leveraged to enhance risk counseling, particularly when lifestyle change is desirable. Genetic risk was able to alter perceptions about the seriousness of T2D risk in those with moderate and average FHH risk, suggesting that FHH could be used to selectively identify individuals who may benefit from genetic risk testing.

The Factors Influencing Depression Endpoints Research (FINDER) study: final results of Italian patients with depression

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Background Factors Influencing Depression Endpoints Research (FINDER) is a 6-month, prospective, observational study carried out in 12 European countries aimed at investigating health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in outpatients receiving treatment for a first or new depressive episode. The Italian HRQoL data at 6 months is described in this report, and the factors associated with HRQoL changes were determined. Methods Data were collected at baseline, 3 and 6 months of treatment. HRQoL was measured using components of the 36-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36; mental component summary (MCS), physical component summary (PCS)) and the European Quality of Life-5 Dimensions (EQ-5D; visual analogue scale (VAS) and health status index (HSI)). The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) was adopted to evaluate depressive symptoms, while somatic and painful physical symptoms were assessed by using the 28-item Somatic Symptom Inventory (SSI-28) and a VAS. Results Of the initial 513 patients, 472 completed the 3-month observation and 466 the 6-month observation. The SF-36 and EQ-5D mean (± SD) scores showed HRQoL improvements at 3 months and a further smaller improvement at 6 months, with the most positive effects for SF-36 MCS (baseline 22.0 ± 9.2, 3 months 34.6 ± 10.0; 6 months 39.3 ± 9.5) and EQ-5D HSI (baseline 0.4 ± 0.3; 3 months 0.7 ± 0.3; 6 months 0.7 ± 0.2). Depression and anxiety symptoms (HADS-D mean at baseline 13.3 ± 4.2; HADS-A mean at baseline 12.2 ± 3.9) consistently decreased during the first 3 months (8.7 ± 4.3; 7.5 ± 3.6) and showed a further positive change at 6 months (6.9 ± 4.3; 5.8 ± 3.4). Somatic and painful symptoms (SSI and VAS) significantly decreased, with the most positive changes in the SSI-28 somatic item (mean at baseline 2.4 ± 0.7; mean change at 3 months: -0.5; 95% CI -0.6 to -0.5; mean change at 6 months: -0.7; 95% CI -0.8 to -0.7); in 'interference of overall pain with daily activities' (mean at baseline 45.2 ± 30.7; mean change at 3 months -17.4; 95% CI -20.0 to -14.8; mean change at 6 months -24.4; 95% CI -27.3 to -21.6) and in 'having pain while awake' (mean at baseline 41.1 ± 29.0; mean change at 3 months -13.7; 95% CI -15.9 to -11.5; mean change at 6 months -20.2; 95% CI -22.8 to -17.5) domains. The results from linear regression analyses showed that the antidepressant switch within classes was consistently associated with a worsening in SF-36 MCS, EQ-5D VAS and HSI compared to non-switching treatment. Furthermore, between-group antidepressants (AD) switch was associated with a worse SF-36 MCS and EQ-5D HSI. MCS (P = 0.028), PCS (P = 0.036) and HSI (P = 0.002) were inversely related to the number of each previous additional depressive episode. PCS (P = 0.009) and HSI (P = 0.005) were also less improved in patients suffering from a chronic medical condition. Moreover, PCS (P = 0.044) and EQ-5D VAS (P < 0.0001) worsening was consistently associated with the presence of a psychiatric illness in the 24 months before baseline. For every additional point on the SSI-somatic score and on the overall pain VAS score at baseline, HSI score were on average 0.062 (P < 0.001) and 0.001 (P = 0.005) smaller, respectively. Conclusions After starting AD treatment, HRQoL improvements at 3 and 6 months were observed. However, several factors can negatively influence HRQoL, such as the presence of somatic and painful symptoms, the presence of any chronic medical condition or previous psychiatric illness. PMID:20670396

[Cognitive and quality of life trajectory after either surgical or transcatheter aortic valve replacement in high-risk patients].

PubMed

Ciuca, Cristina; Fortuna, Daniela; Ferrari, Susy; Salizzoni, Stefano; Grisoglio, Enrica; Punta, Giuseppe; Del Ponte, Stefano; Aranzulla, Tiziana Claudia; Gabbieri, Davide; Gandolfo, Caterina; Dispensa, Flavia; Vecchio Verderame, Lavinia; Tamburino, Corrado; Caruso, Cinzia; Grossi, Claudio; Mikus, Elisa; Guiducci, Vincenzo; Violini, Roberto; Rongoni, Silvia; Pandolfi, Claudia; Moretti, Carolina; De Palma, Rossana; Chattat, Rabih; Savini, Carlo; Marzocchi, Antonio; Saia, Francesco

2016-12-01

The impact of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) or surgical aortic valve replacement (AVR) on cognitive status and quality of life in high-risk patients has been incompletely investigated. We conducted a prospective, multicenter study including all patients treated with TAVI and high-risk patients undergoing AVR (age ≥80 years or logistic EuroSCORE ≥15%) at participating centers. Multidimensional geriatric evaluation including Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), EuroQol 5D (EQ5D) and Minnesota Living With Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ) were performed at baseline and at 3- and 12-month follow-up. A total of 518 patients (151 AVR and 367 TAVI) were enrolled in 10 Italian institutions. Patients receiving AVR were older (82.7 ± 2.4 years), with a lower logistic EuroSCORE (12.5 ± 7.1%) as compared with TAVI patients (81.5 ± 6.2 years and 19.6 ± 14.0%, respectively, p=0.001 and p<0.001). Overall, 35.5% of patients showed some degree of cognitive impairment at baseline, with no differences between groups. No significant changes in the cognitive status were observed between baseline and follow-up and between groups at any time point. TAVI patients had a lower quality of life at baseline as compared with AVR patients. Generic and heart failure-related quality of life improved significantly after either procedure. In high-risk patients, both TAVI and AVR are associated with a significant improvement of quality of life up to 1 year without a detrimental effect on cognitive function.

Pomegranate (Punicagranatum) juice decreases lipid peroxidation, but has no effect on plasma advanced glycated end-products in adults with type 2 diabetes: a randomized double-blind clinical trial

PubMed Central

Sohrab, Golbon; Angoorani, Pooneh; Tohidi, Maryam; Tabibi, Hadi; Kimiagar, Masoud; Nasrollahzadeh, Javad

2015-01-01

Introduction Diabetes mellitus characterized by hyperglycemia could increase oxidative stress and formation of advanced glycated end-products (AGEs), which contribute to diabetic complications. The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of pomegranate juice (PJ) containing natural antioxidant on lipid peroxidation and plasma AGEs in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Materials and methods In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 44 patients (age range 56±6.8 years), T2D were randomly assigned to one of two groups: group A (PJ, n=22) and group B (Placebo, n=22). At the baseline and the end of 12-week intervention, biochemical markers including fasting plasma glucose, insulin, oxidative stress, and AGE markers including carboxy methyl lysine (CML) and pentosidine were assayed. Results At baseline, there were no significant differences in plasma total antioxidant capacity (TAC) levels between the two groups, but malondialdehyde (MDA) decreased levels were significantly different (P<0.001). After 12 weeks of intervention, TAC increased (P<0.05) and MDA decreased (P<0.01) in the PJ group when compared with the placebo group. However, no significant differences were observed in plasma concentration of CML and pentosidine between the two groups. Conclusions The study showed that PJ decreases lipid peroxidation. Therefore, PJ consumption may delay onset of T2D complications related to oxidative stress. PMID:26355954

The King-Devick test for sideline concussion screening in collegiate football.

PubMed

Leong, Danielle F; Balcer, Laura J; Galetta, Steven L; Evans, Greg; Gimre, Matthew; Watt, David

2015-01-01

Sports-related concussion has received increasing attention as a result of neurologic sequelae seen among athletes, highlighting the need for a validated, rapid screening tool. The King-Devick (K-D) test requires vision, eye movements, language function and attention in order to perform and has been proposed as a promising tool for assessment of concussion. We investigated the K-D test as a sideline screening tool in a collegiate cohort to determine the effect of concussion. Athletes (n=127, mean age 19.6±1.2 years) from the Wheaton College football and men's and women's basketball teams underwent baseline K-D testing at pre-season physicals for the 2012-2013 season. K-D testing was administered immediately on the sidelines for football players with suspected head injury during regular games and changes compared to baseline were determined. Post-season testing was also performed to compare non-concussed athletes' test performance. Concussed athletes (n=11) displayed sideline K-D scores that were significantly higher (worse) than baseline (36.5±5.6s vs. 31.3±4.5s, p<0.005, Wilcoxon signed-rank test). Post-season testing demonstrated improvement of scores and was consistent with known learning effects (35.1±5.2s vs. 34.4±5.0s, p<0.05, Wilcoxon signed-rank test). Test-retest reliability was analyzed between baseline and post-season administrations of the K-D test resulting in high levels of test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC)=0.95 [95% Confidence Interval 0.85-1.05]). The data show worsening of K-D test scores following concussion further supporting utility of the K-D test as an objective, reliable and effective sideline visual screening tool to help identify athletes with concussion. Copyright © 2014 Spanish General Council of Optometry. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

Long-term monitoring of experimental features, subtask 2 : Alexandria-Ashland highway (KY 9) pavement performance monitoring

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2000-06-01

Construction on the AA Highway began in late 1985 and was completed in late 1990. Prior to construction, 30 different test sections had been designed into the highway for evaluation. The test sections contain 23 different characteristic qualities and...

Virologic response to treatment with Pegylated Interferon alfa-2b and Ribavirin for chronic hepatitis C in children.

PubMed

Pawłowska, Malgorzata; Pilarczyk, Malgorzata; Halota, Waldemar

2010-12-01

This study assessed the efficacy and safety of treatment of chronic hepatitis C in children with pegylated interferon alpha and ribavirin. Investigations were performed on 53 children with chronic hepatitis C, aged 8-17 years. Children were divided into 2 groups: naïve (n=29) and retreated (n=24). All children were administered a combined therapy with pegylated interferon (IFN) alpha-2b 1.5 mcg/kg/wk and ribavirin 15 mg/kg/d for 48 weeks. Mean baseline viral load was 0.456×10(6) IU/mL, mean alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activity was 45.8±24.3 IU/mL. No child had liver disease assessed greater than grade 2, stage 2 according to modified Scheuer scale. Serum hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA in TW 12-EVR, TW 48-ETR, and W 72-sustained virologic response (SVR) with the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method (Roche TaqMan) were evaluated. Sustained virologic response was achieved in 47% of children. The prevalence of relapses was 7.5%. The most important predictor of SVR in both groups was undetectable HCV RNA at TW 12. All retreated children who achieved partial EVR - (the HCV RNA level decreased more than 2 logs relative to baseline) were relapsers. In responders from both groups, baseline ALT activity was higher and baseline viral load was lower. In all children who achieved SVR, HCV RNA was undetectable 12 months later. Pegylated IFN and ribavirin are effective in treating chronic hepatitis C in children. Complete EVR is predictive of a sustained viral response. And high rate of relapses in retreated patients may suggest a longer duration of retherapy.

Episodic-like memory trace in awake replay of hippocampal place cell activity sequences

PubMed Central

Takahashi, Susumu

2015-01-01

Episodic memory retrieval of events at a specific place and time is effective for future planning. Sequential reactivation of the hippocampal place cells along familiar paths while the animal pauses is well suited to such a memory retrieval process. It is, however, unknown whether this awake replay represents events occurring along the path. Using a subtask switching protocol in which the animal experienced three subtasks as ‘what’ information in a maze, I here show that the replay represents a trial type, consisting of path and subtask, in terms of neuronal firing timings and rates. The actual trial type to be rewarded could only be reliably predicted from replays that occurred at the decision point. This trial-type representation implies that not only ‘where and when’ but also ‘what’ information is contained in the replay. This result supports the view that awake replay is an episodic-like memory retrieval process. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.08105.001 PMID:26481131

Application of adaptive antenna techniques to future commercial satellite communication

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ersoy, L.; Lee, E. A.; Matthews, E. W.

1987-01-01

The purpose of this contract was to identify the application of adaptive antenna technique in future operational commercial satellite communication systems and to quantify potential benefits. The contract consisted of two major subtasks. Task 1, Assessment of Future Commercial Satellite System Requirements, was generally referred to as the Adaptive section. Task 2 dealt with Pointing Error Compensation Study for a Multiple Scanning/Fixed Spot Beam Reflector Antenna System and was referred to as the reconfigurable system. Each of these tasks was further sub-divided into smaller subtasks. It should also be noted that the reconfigurable system is usually defined as an open-loop system while the adaptive system is a closed-loop system. The differences between the open- and closed-loop systems were defined. Both the adaptive and reconfigurable systems were explained and the potential applications of such systems were presented in the context of commercial communication satellite systems.

Application of adaptive antenna techniques to future commercial satellite communications. Executive summary

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ersoy, L.; Lee, E. A.; Matthews, E. W.

1987-01-01

The purpose of this contract was to identify the application of adaptive antenna technique in future operational commercial satellite communication systems and to quantify potential benefits. The contract consisted of two major subtasks. Task 1, Assessment of Future Commercial Satellite System Requirements, was generally referred to as the Adaptive section. Task 2 dealt with Pointing Error Compensation Study for a Multiple Scanning/Fixed Spot Beam Reflector Antenna System and was referred to as the reconfigurable system. Each of these tasks was further subdivided into smaller subtasks. It should also be noted that the reconfigurable system is usually defined as an open-loop system while the adaptive system is a closed-loop system. The differences between the open- and closed-loop systems were defined. Both the adaptive and reconfigurable systems were explained and the potential applications of such systems were presented in the context of commercial communication satellite systems.

Evaluation of Methods for Multidisciplinary Design Optimization (MDO). Part 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kodiyalam, Srinivas; Yuan, Charles; Sobieski, Jaroslaw (Technical Monitor)

2000-01-01

A new MDO method, BLISS, and two different variants of the method, BLISS/RS and BLISS/S, have been implemented using iSIGHT's scripting language and evaluated in this report on multidisciplinary problems. All of these methods are based on decomposing a modular system optimization system into several subtasks optimization, that may be executed concurrently, and the system optimization that coordinates the subtasks optimization. The BLISS method and its variants are well suited for exploiting the concurrent processing capabilities in a multiprocessor machine. Several steps, including the local sensitivity analysis, local optimization, response surfaces construction and updates are all ideally suited for concurrent processing. Needless to mention, such algorithms that can effectively exploit the concurrent processing capabilities of the compute servers will be a key requirement for solving large-scale industrial design problems, such as the automotive vehicle problem detailed in Section 3.4.

Higher-protein diets improve indexes of sleep in energy-restricted overweight and obese adults: results from 2 randomized controlled trials.

PubMed

Zhou, Jing; Kim, Jung Eun; Armstrong, Cheryl Lh; Chen, Ningning; Campbell, Wayne W

2016-03-01

Limited and inconsistent research findings exist about the effect of dietary protein intake on indexes of sleep. We assessed the effect of protein intake during dietary energy restriction on indexes of sleep in overweight and obese adults in 2 randomized, controlled feeding studies. For study 1, 14 participants [3 men and 11 women; mean ± SE age: 56 ± 3 y; body mass index (BMI; in kg/m(2)): 30.9 ± 0.6] consumed energy-restricted diets (a 750-kcal/d deficit) with either beef and pork (BP; n = 5) or soy and legume (SL; n = 9) as the main protein sources for 3 consecutive 4-wk periods with 10% (control), 20%, or 30% of total energy from protein (random order). At baseline and the end of each period, the global sleep score (GSS) was assessed with the use of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) questionnaire. For study 2, 44 participants (12 men and 32 women; age: 52 ± 1 y; BMI: 31.4 ± 0.5) consumed a 3-wk baseline energy-balance diet with 0.8 g protein · kg baseline body mass(-1) · d(-1). Then, study 2 subjects consumed either a normal-protein [NP (control); n = 23] or a high-protein (HP; n = 21) (0.8 compared with 1.5 g · kg(-1) · d(-1), respectively) energy-restricted diet (a 750-kcal/d deficit) for 16 wk. The PSQI was administered during baseline week 3 and intervention weeks 4, 8, 12, and 16. GSSs ranged from 0 to 21 arbitrary units (au), with a higher value representing a worse GSS during the preceding month. In study 1, we showed that a higher protein quantity improved GSSs independent of the protein source. The GSS was higher (P < 0.05) when 10% (6.0 ± 0.4 au) compared with 20% (5.0 ± 0.4 au) protein was consumed, with 30% protein (5.4 ± 0.6 au) intermediate. In study 2, at baseline, the GSS was not different between NP (5.2 ± 0.5 au) and HP (5.4 ± 0.5 au) groups. Over time, the GSS was unchanged for the NP group and improved for the HP group (P-group-by-time interaction < 0.05). After intervention (week 16), GSSs for NP and HP groups were 5.9 ± 0.5 and 4.0 ± 0.6 au, respectively (P < 0.01). The consumption of a greater proportion of energy from protein while dieting may improve sleep in overweight and obese adults. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01005563 (study 1) and NCT01692860 (study 2). © 2016 American Society for Nutrition.

Vitamin D deficiency is associated with functional decline and falls in frail elderly women despite supplementation

PubMed Central

Kotlarczyk, Mary P.; Perera, Subashan; Ferchak, Mary Anne; Nace, David A.; Resnick, Neil M.; Greenspan, Susan L.

2018-01-01

Purpose Institute of Medicine (IOM) guidelines recommend 800 IU vitamin D daily for older adults and maintaining serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] above 20 ng/ml for optimal skeletal health. The adequacy of IOM guidelines for sustaining function and reducing falls in frail elderly is unknown. Methods Female long-term care residents age ≥ 65 enrolled in an osteoporosis clinical trial were included in this analysis (n=137). Participants were classified based on baseline 25(OH)D levels as deficient (<20 ng/ml, n=26), insufficient (20–30 ng/ml, n=40), or sufficient (>30 ng/ml, n=71). Deficient women were provided initial vitamin D repletion (50,000 IU D3 weekly for 8 weeks). All were supplemented with 800 IU vitamin D3 daily for 24 months. Annual functional assessments included Activities of Daily Living (ADL), Instrumental ADL (IADL), Physical Performance Test (PPT), gait speed, cognition (SPMSQ), and mental health (PHQ-9). We used linear mixed models for analysis of functional measures and logistic regression for falls. Results Daily supplementation maintained 25(OH)D levels above 20 ng/ml in 95% of participants. All groups demonstrated functional decline. Women initially deficient had a greater decline in physical function at 12 (IADL: −2.0±0.4, PPT: −3.1±0.7, both p<0.01) and 24 months (IADL: −2.5±0.6, ADL: −2.5±0.6, both p<0.01), a larger increase in cognitive deficits at 12 months (1.7±0.4: p=0.01), and more fallers (88.5%, p=0.04) compared to those sufficient at baseline, despite supplementation to sufficient levels. Conclusions IOM guidelines may not be adequate for frail elderly. Further study of optimal 25(OH)D levels for maintaining function and preventing falls is needed. PMID:27975302

Association between oxidized LDL, obesity and type 2 diabetes in a population-based cohort, the Health Aging and Body Composition study

PubMed Central

Njajou, Omer T.; Kanaya, Alka M.; Holvoet, Paul; Connelly, Stephanie; Strotmeyer, Elsa S.; Harris, Tamara B.; Cummings, Steve R.; Hsueh, Wen-Chi

2012-01-01

Aims/hypothesis Accumulating evidence suggests a cross-sectional association between oxidative stress and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Systemic oxidative stress, as measured by oxidized LDL (oxLDL), has been correlated with visceral fat. We examined the relationship between oxLDL, and T2D- and obesity-related traits in a bi-racial sample of 2,985 subjects at baseline and after 7 years of follow-up. Methods We examined six T2D-related traits (T2D status, HbA1c, fasting glucose, insulin, adiponectin and HOMA-IR) as well as six obesity-related traits (obesity status, BMI, leptin, % body fat, visceral and subcutaneous fat mass) using logistic and linear regression models. Results In all subjects at baseline, oxLDL was positively associated with T2D (OR=1.3,95% CI:1.1–1.5), fasting glucose (β=0.03±0.006), HbA1c (β=0.02±0.004), fasting insulin (β=0.12±0.02), HOMA-IR (β=0.13±0.02) and negatively with adiponectin (β=−0.16±0.03), (all p<0.001). The strength and magnitude of these associations did not differ much between blacks and whites. In both blacks and whites, oxLDL was also associated with obesity (OR=1.3, 95% CI:1.1–1.4) and 3 of its related traits (β=0.60±0.14 for BMI, β=0.74±0.17 for % body fat, β=0.29±0.06 for visceral fat; all p<0.001). Furthermore, of 4 traits measured after 7 years of follow-up (fasting glucose, HbA1c, BMI and % fat), their relationship with oxLDL were similar to baseline observations. No significant association was found between oxLDL and incident T2D. Interestingly, oxLDL was significantly associated with % change in T2D- and obesity-related traits in whites but not in blacks. Conclusion/interpretation Our data suggest that systemic oxidative stress may be a novel risk factor for T2D and obesity. PMID:19780064

Effect of agomelatine treatment on C-reactive protein levels in patients with major depressive disorder: an exploratory study in "real-world," everyday clinical practice.

PubMed

De Berardis, Domenico; Fornaro, Michele; Orsolini, Laura; Iasevoli, Felice; Tomasetti, Carmine; de Bartolomeis, Andrea; Serroni, Nicola; De Lauretis, Ida; Girinelli, Gabriella; Mazza, Monica; Valchera, Alessandro; Carano, Alessandro; Vellante, Federica; Matarazzo, Ilaria; Perna, Giampaolo; Martinotti, Giovanni; Di Giannantonio, Massimo

2017-08-01

Agomelatine is a newer antidepressant but, to date, no studies have been carried out investigating its effects on C-reactive protein (CRP) levels in major depressive disorder (MDD) before and after treatment. The present study aimed (i) to investigate the effects of agomelatine treatment on CRP levels in a sample of patients with MDD and (ii) to investigate if CRP variations were correlated with clinical improvement in such patients. 30 adult outpatients (12 males, 18 females) with a Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-IV-TR) diagnosis of MDD were recruited in "real-world," everyday clinical practice and treated with a flexible dose of agomelatine for 12 weeks. The Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAM-D) and the Snaith-Hamilton Pleasure Scale (SHAPS) were used to evaluate depressive symptoms and anhedonia, respectively. Moreover, serum CRP was measured at baseline and after 12 weeks of treatment. Agomelatine was effective in the treatment of MDD, with a significant reduction in HAM-D and SHAPS scores from baseline to endpoint. CRP levels were reduced in the whole sample, with remitters showing a significant difference in CRP levels after 12 weeks of agomelatine. A multivariate stepwise linear regression analysis showed that higher CRP level variation was associated with higher baseline HAM-D scores, controlling for age, gender, smoking, BMI, and agomelatine dose. Agomelatine's antidepressant properties were associated with a reduction in circulating CRP levels in MDD patients who achieved remission after 12 weeks of treatment. Moreover, more prominent CRP level variation was associated with more severe depressive symptoms at baseline.

Safety and Efficacy of High-dose Daily Vitamin D3 Supplementation in Children and Young Adults With Sickle Cell Disease.

PubMed

Dougherty, Kelly A; Bertolaso, Chiara; Schall, Joan I; Smith-Whitley, Kim; Stallings, Virginia A

2015-07-01

Suboptimal vitamin D (vit D) status (<32 ng/mL) is ubiquitous among African American children with type SS sickle cell disease (SCD-SS). The vit D supplemental dose to normalize vit D status is unknown. Five to 20-year-old African American children with (n=21) and without (n=23) SCD-SS were randomized to vit D3 supplementation (4000 or 7000 IU/d) and evaluated at 6 and 12 weeks for changes in vit D and SCD status. A dose was considered unsafe if serum calcium was elevated associated with elevated serum 25 hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D). At baseline 95% of subjects with SCD-SS and 87% of healthy controls had suboptimal vit D status (mean±SD, 19.2±7.2 and 22.3±9.3 ng/mL, respectively). After 12 weeks supplementation, both D3 doses were safe and well tolerated. Neither group achieved the a priori efficacy criterion of 25(OH)D≥32 ng/mL in >80% of subjects (45% in SCD-SS and 63% in controls). However, for both subjects with SCD-SS and healthy subjects by 12 weeks, deficient (<20 ng/mL) vit D status was eliminated only in those receiving 7000 IU/d. For subjects with SCD-SS, by 12 weeks there was a significant (all P<0.05) increase in fetal hemoglobin, decrease in high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, and reduction in the percentage of subjects with a high platelet count.

Assessment of ocular hypotensive effect and safety 12 months after changing from an unfixed combination to a latanoprost 0.005% + timolol maleate 0.5% fixed combination.

PubMed

Inoue, Kenji; Okayama, Ryoko; Higa, Risako; Wakakura, Masato; Tomita, Goji

2012-01-01

Latanoprost 0.005% + timolol maleate 0.5% combined eyedrops were recently made available in Japan. We prospectively investigated the intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering effect, visual preservation effect, and adverse reactions of a one-year administration of this fixed combination. The subjects included 162 eyes from 162 patients diagnosed with either primary open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension and using an unfixed combination of latanoprost 0.005% and timolol maleate 0.5%. The unfixed combination was discontinued and replaced with the latanoprost 0.005% + timolol maleate 0.5% fixed combination with no washout period. IOP was measured before (baseline) and 3, 6, 9, and 12 months after the change. The mean deviation value of Humphrey field analysis was compared. Adverse reactions were examined at every follow-up. No significant differences were found between mean IOP values obtained at baseline (mean ± standard deviation, 15.2 ± 3.3 mmHg) 3 months (15.1 ± 3.2 mmHg), 6 months (15.3 ± 3.1 mmHg), 9 months (15.3 ± 3.1 mmHg), and 12 months (15.1 ± 3.2 mmHg) after the change from the unfixed to the fixed combination of eyedrops (P = 0.212). In addition, no significant differences were observed between mean deviation values obtained at baseline (-9.11 ± 6.94 dB) and 12 months (-10.08 ± 7.24 dB) after the change (P = 0.114). Thirty-one patients discontinued the fixed combination within 12 months of replacement, due to an insufficient IOP decrease (20 patients, 12.3%) and adverse reactions (11 patients, 6.8%). Following replacement of two eyedrop medications (latanoprost 0.005% and timolol maleate 0.5%) by one fixed combination (latanoprost 0.005% + timolol maleate 0.5%), IOP and visual field were preserved. However, 20% of the patients discontinued the new treatment because of an insufficient IOP decrease and complaints of adverse reactions.

Haemoglobin dynamics in Papuan and non-Papuan adults in northeast Papua, Indonesia, with acute, uncomplicated vivax or falciparum malaria

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Haemoglobin (Hb) recovers slowly in malaria and may be influenced by naturally acquired immunity. Hb recovery was compared in malaria immune, indigenous Papuan and non-Papuan adults with limited malaria exposure. Methods Hb concentrations were measured on Days (D) 0, 3, 7, and 28 in 57 Papuans and 105 non-Papuans treated with chloroquine, doxycycline or both drugs for acute, uncomplicated Plasmodium vivax (n?=?64) or Plasmodium falciparum (n?=?98). Results Mean (SD, range) D0 Hb was 12.7 (2.2, 7–21.3) g/dL and was similar in P. falciparum infected Papuans and non-Papuans: 12.2 vs. 12.8 g/dL (P?=?0.15) but significantly lower in: (i) P. vivax-infected Papuans vs. P. vivax-infected non-Papuans: 11.4 vs. 13.47 g/dL [∆?=?−2.07 (95% CI: –3.3 – –0.8), P?=?0.0018], (ii) all patients with splenomegaly (vs. those without splenomegaly): 12.16 vs. 13.01 g/dL [∆?=?−0.85 (−1.6– –0.085), P?=?0.029], and (iii) all females vs. all males: 10.18 vs. 13.01 g/dL [∆?=?−2.82 (−3.97 – –1.67), P?

PET imaging of dopamine D2 receptors during chronic cocaine self-administration in monkeys.

PubMed

Nader, Michael A; Morgan, Drake; Gage, H Donald; Nader, Susan H; Calhoun, Tonya L; Buchheimer, Nancy; Ehrenkaufer, Richard; Mach, Robert H

2006-08-01

Dopamine neurotransmission is associated with high susceptibility to cocaine abuse. Positron emission tomography was used in 12 rhesus macaques to determine if dopamine D2 receptor availability was associated with the rate of cocaine reinforcement, and to study changes in brain dopaminergic function during maintenance of and abstinence from cocaine. Baseline D2 receptor availability was negatively correlated with rates of cocaine self-administration. D2 receptor availability decreased by 15-20% within 1 week of initiating self-administration and remained reduced by approximately 20% during 1 year of exposure. Long-term reductions in D2 receptor availability were observed, with decreases persisting for up to 1 year of abstinence in some monkeys. These data provide evidence for a predisposition to self-administer cocaine based on D2 receptor availability, and demonstrate that the brain dopamine system responds rapidly following cocaine exposure. Individual differences in the rate of recovery of D2 receptor function during abstinence were noted.

Frailty and quality of life among older people with and without a cancer diagnosis: Findings from TOPICS-MDS

PubMed Central

Schoon, Yvonne; van Goor, Harry; Olde Rikkert, Marcel; Melis, René

2017-01-01

Background The number of older cancer patients is rising. Especially in older people, treatment considerations should balance the impact of disease and treatment on quality of life (QOL) and survival. How a cancer diagnosis in older people interacts with concomitant frailty to impact on QOL is largely unknown. We aimed to determine the association between frailty and QOL among community-dwelling older people aged 65 years or above with and without a cancer diagnosis cross-sectionally and at 12 months follow-up. Methods Data were derived from the TOPICS-MDS database. Frailty was quantified by a frailty index (FI). QOL was measured with the subjective Cantril’s Self Anchoring Ladder (CSAL, range: 0–10) and the health-related EuroQol-5D (EQ-5D, range:-0.33–1.00) at baseline and after 12 months. To determine associations, linear mixed models were used. Results 7493 older people (78.6±6.4 years, 58.4% female) were included. Dealing with a cancer diagnosis (n = 751) was associated with worse QOL both at baseline (CSAL:-0.25 (95%-CI:-0.36;-0.14), EQ-5D:-0.03 (95%-CI:-0.05;-0.02)) and at follow-up (CSAL:-0.13 (95%-CI:-0.24;-0.02), EQ-5D:-0.02 (95%-CI:-0.03;-0.00)). A ten percent increase in frailty was also associated with a decrease in QOL at baseline (CSAL:-0.35 (95%-CI:-0.38;-0.32), EQ-5D:-0.12 (95%-CI:-0.12;-0.11)) and follow-up (CSAL:-0.27 (95%-CI:-0.30;-0.24), EQ-5D:-0.07 (95%-CI:-0.07;-0.06)). When mutually adjusting for frailty and a cancer diagnosis, associations between a cancer diagnosis and QOL only remained significant for CSAL at baseline (-0.14 (95%-CI:-0.25;-0.03)), whereas associations between frailty and QOL remained significant for all QOL outcomes at baseline and follow-up. No statistical interactions between cancer and frailty in their combined impact on QOL were found. Conclusions Cancer diagnosis and frailty were associated with worse health-related and self-perceived QOL both at baseline and at follow-up. Differences in QOL between older people with and without a cancer diagnosis were explained to a large extent by differences in frailty levels. This stresses the importance to take into account frailty in routine oncologic care. PMID:29244837

The influence of a whole food vegan diet with Nori algae and wild mushrooms on selected blood parameters.

PubMed

Schwarz, Joachim; Dschietzig, Thomas; Schwarz, Jens; Dura, Andreas; Nelle, Esther; Watanabe, Fumio; Wintgens, Karl Florian; Reich, Michael; Armbruster, Franz Paul

2014-01-01

Vegan and vegetarian diets could overcome many diseases of civilization. This study examines whether a whole food vegan diet with Nori algae and wild mushrooms can provide a sufficient quantity of critical nutrients. Five blood samples (Baseline to Time 5) were taken over eight months from 75 subjects (10 vegans without B12 supplementation who consumed Nori algae and wild mushrooms, 20 vegans with supplementation, 40 vegetarians, 5 meat-eaters). Blood was analyzed for blood cell counts, total vitamin B12, holotranscobalamin, homocysteine, methylmalonic acid, vitamin B6, folic acid, ferritin, TSH, zinc, creatinine, vitamin D2 and D3. In the vegan group without supplementation, all means were within the tolerance (holotranscobalamin, homocystein) or normal, except for elevated methylmalonic acid and diminished vitamin D. This group developed significantly higher vitamin D2 levels. The vegan group with B12 supplementation and the vegetarian group showed normal values for all parameters. Vegans following a whole food diet had a borderline supply of vitamin B12. Folic acid, vitamin B6, TSH, iron metabolism, and the blood count were in the normal range. Vegans taking dietary supplements demonstrated satisfactory overall results. An ingestion of sundried mushrooms can contribute to the supply of vitamin D.

Resistant Hypertension, Time-Updated Blood Pressure Values and Renal Outcome in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

PubMed

Viazzi, Francesca; Piscitelli, Pamela; Ceriello, Antonio; Fioretto, Paola; Giorda, Carlo; Guida, Pietro; Russo, Giuseppina; De Cosmo, Salvatore; Pontremoli, Roberto

2017-09-22

Apparent treatment resistant hypertension (aTRH) is highly prevalent in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) and entails worse cardiovascular prognosis. The impact of aTRH and long-term achievement of recommended blood pressure (BP) values on renal outcome remains largely unknown. We assessed the role of aTRH and BP on the development of chronic kidney disease in patients with T2D and hypertension in real-life clinical practice. Clinical records from a total of 29 923 patients with T2D and hypertension, with normal baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate and regular visits during a 4-year follow-up, were retrieved and analyzed. The association between time-updated BP control (ie, 75% of visits with BP <140/90 mm Hg) and the occurrence of estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 and/or a reduction ≥30% from baseline was assessed. At baseline, 17% of patients had aTRH. Over the 4-year follow-up, 19% developed low estimated glomerular filtration rate and 12% an estimated glomerular filtration rate reduction ≥30% from baseline. Patients with aTRH showed an increased risk of developing both renal outcomes (adjusted odds ratio, 1.31 and 1.43; P <0.001 respectively), as compared with those with non-aTRH. No association was found between BP control and renal outcomes in non-aTRH, whereas in aTRH, BP control was associated with a 30% ( P =0.036) greater risk of developing the renal end points. ATRH entails a worse renal prognosis in T2D with hypertension. BP control is not associated with a more-favorable renal outcome in aTRH. The relationship between time-updated BP and renal function seems to be J-shaped, with optimal systolic BP values between 120 and 140 mm Hg. © 2017 The Authors. Published on behalf of the American Heart Association, Inc., by Wiley.

The Inter-Arm Diastolic Blood Pressure Difference Induced by One Arm Ischemia: A New Approach to Assess Vascular Endothelia Function

PubMed Central

Su, Hai; Wang, Jiwei; Xu, Jinsong; Liu, Yanna; Huang, Ming; Cheng, Xiaoshu

2014-01-01

Objectives To evaluate whether inter-arm diastolic blood pressure difference (DBPl-r) induced by one arm ischemia correlates with flow-mediated dilatation (FMD). Methods Bilateral arm BPs were simultaneously measured with two automatic devices and right brachial artery diameter (D) was measured by ultrasound technique in 108 subjects (56 hypertensives and 52 normotensives). Following baseline diameter (D0) and BP measurement, right brachial artery was occluded for 5 minutes. The diameter was measured at 1, 1.5 and 2 min, and bilateral BPs measured at 3, 4 and 5 min after occlusion release. Their averages were recorded as post-D and post-BP, respectively. The difference between post-D and D0 (ΔD) was calculated as the percentage increase of artery diameter (ΔD/D0). The BP difference between left and right arms was calculated as BPl-r, and the difference of post- BPl-r and baseline BPl-r was recorded as the net change of BPl-r (ΔBPl-r). Results At baseline, bilateral SBPs and DBPs were similar. Right arm ischemia induced significant DBP decline only in the right arm (68.8±12.7 vs 72.6±12.0 mmHg, P<0.05), which led to an increase of ΔDBPl-r (4.00±3.75 vs 0.78±4.47 mmHg, P<0.05). A positive correlation was seen between ΔD/D0 and ΔDBPl-r (r = 0.744, p<0.001). Furthermore, the correlation between age and ΔDBPl-r (r = −0.358, P<0.01) was similar to that between age and D/D0 (r = −0.398, P<0.01). Meanwhile, both ΔDBPl-r and ΔD/D0 were significantly lower in hypertensive patients than in normotensive patients. Conclusion The inter-arm DBP difference induced by one arm ischemia may be a potential index for clinical evaluation of vascular endothelial function. PMID:24454748

Vitamin-D status and neurodevelopment and growth in young north Indian children: a secondary data analysis.

PubMed

Chowdhury, Ranadip; Taneja, Sunita; Bhandari, Nita; Kvestad, Ingrid; Strand, Tor A; Bhan, Maharaj Kishan

2017-09-18

Vitamin-D deficiency has been linked with impaired development in animal studies; however, the evidence from human studies is scanty. Evidence as to whether vitamin-D deficiency during early childhood affects growth is also limited and conflicting. We examined the extent to which vitamin-D deficiency (<10 ng/ml) is associated with neurodevelopment and physical growth in young children. We used data from a randomized controlled trial (RCT) of daily folic acid and/ or vitamin B12 supplementation for six months in children aged 6 to 30 months conducted in Delhi, India. We measured vitamin-D status and  neurodevelopment by the Ages and Stages Questionnaire-3 (ASQ-3) at 12 to 36 months of age. Multiple logistic and linear regressions were used to examine the association between vitamin-D deficiency at baseline and neurodevelopment and growth 6 months follow-up. 25-hydroxy-vitamin-D (25OHD) concentration was measured at baseline for 960 (96%) children. Of these, 331 (34.5%) children were vitamin-D deficient. The total and subscale (except for the Personal social scale) ASQ-3 scores, were not different between the vitamin-D deficient and non-deficient children. Vitamin-D deficiency was also not associated with physical growth at baseline and at follow -up. Our data do not support the hypothesis that vitamin-D deficiency is associated with poor growth and neurodevelopment. NCT00717730 and CTRI/2010/091/001090 . Date of registration: 08 October, 2010.

Organic Contamination Baseline Study: In NASA JSC Astromaterials Curation Laboratories. Summary Report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Calaway, Michael J.

2013-01-01

In preparation for OSIRIS-REx and other future sample return missions concerned with analyzing organics, we conducted an Organic Contamination Baseline Study for JSC Curation Labsoratories in FY12. For FY12 testing, organic baseline study focused only on molecular organic contamination in JSC curation gloveboxes: presumably future collections (i.e. Lunar, Mars, asteroid missions) would use isolation containment systems over only cleanrooms for primary sample storage. This decision was made due to limit historical data on curation gloveboxes, limited IR&D funds and Genesis routinely monitors organics in their ISO class 4 cleanrooms.

Changes in Bone Mineral Density, Body Composition, Vitamin D Status, and Mineral Metabolism in Urban HIV-Positive South African Women Over 12 Months.

PubMed

Hamill, Matthew M; Pettifor, John M; Ward, Kate A; Norris, Shane A; Prentice, Ann

2017-08-01

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and antiretroviral therapy (ART) are associated with bone loss and poor vitamin D status in white populations, though their relative roles are not known. No previous studies have examined longitudinal changes in areal bone mineral density (aBMD), measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), or in vitamin D status in HIV-positive African women. Of 247 premenopausal, urban, black African women from Soweto, South Africa, initially recruited, 187 underwent anthropometry, DXA scanning and blood and urine collections at both baseline and 12 months. Of these, 67 were HIV-negative throughout (Nref), 60 were HIV-positive with preserved CD4 counts at baseline (Ppres), and 60 were HIV-positive with low CD4 counts at baseline, eligible for ART by South African standards of care at the time (Plow). No participant had been exposed to ART at baseline. By 12 months, 51 Plow women had initiated ART, >85% of whom took combined tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF), lamivudine, and efavirenz. By 12 months, Plow and Nref, but not Ppres, increased in body weight and fat mass (group-by-timepoint p ≤ 0.001, p = 0.002, respectively). Plow had significant decreases in aBMD of 2% to 3%, before and after size adjustment, at the femoral neck (p ≤ 0.002) and lumbar spine (p ≤ 0.001), despite significant weight gain. These decreases were associated with increased bone turnover but there were no significant differences or changes over time in vitamin D status, serum phosphate concentrations, or renal phosphate handling. Excluding data from nine Plow women unexposed to ART and 11 Ppres women who had initiated ART accentuated these findings, suggesting the bone loss in Plow was related to ART exposure. This is the first study describing DXA-defined bone loss in HIV-positive Sub-Saharan African women in association with ART. Further work is required to establish if bone loss continues with ongoing ART and, if so, whether this results in increased fracture rates. © 2017 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research. © 2017 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.

Impact of a multiple-micronutrient food supplement on the nutritional status of schoolchildren.

PubMed

Vinod Kumar, Malavika; Rajagopalan, S

2006-09-01

. Multiple-micronutrient deficiencies exist in many developing nations. A system to deliver multiple micronutrients effectively would be of value in these countries. . To evaluate the delivery of multiple micronutrients through the food route. The goal was to test the stability of the supplement during cooking and storage and then to test its bioefficacy and bioavailability in residential schoolchildren 5 to 15 years of age. A pre- and post-test design was used to study children 5 to 15 years of age, with an experimental and a control group. The experimental group (n=211) consisted of children from two residential schools, and the control group (n=202) consisted of children from three residential schools. The experimental group received a micronutrient supplement containing vitamin A, vitamin B2, vitamin B6 vitamin B12, folic acid, niacin, calcium pantothenate, vitamin C, vitamin E, iron, lysine, and calcium daily for 9 months. There was no nutritional intervention in the control group. Children in the experimental and control groups were matched by socioeconomic status, age, and eating habits at baseline. All of the children in the experimental and control schools were dewormed at baseline, after 4 months, and at the endpoint. Biochemical measurements (hemoglobin, serum vitamin A, serum vitamin E, serum vitamin B12, and serum folic acid) were measured at baseline, after 4 months, and at the endpoint (after 9 months). The heights and weights of the children were also measured at baseline and endpoint. Serum vitamins A and E were measured in a subsample of 50% and vitamin B12 and serum folic acid measured in a subsample of 25% of the children. In the experimental group, the mean gains in hemoglobin, serum vitamin A, serum vitamin E, serum vitamin B12, and serum folic acid over 9 months were 0.393 g/dL, 6.0375 microg/dL, 1037.45 microg/dL, 687.604 pg/mL, and 1.864 ng/mL, respectively. In the control group, the mean losses in hemoglobin and serum vitamin A over 9 months were 0.9556 g/dL and 10.0641 microg/dL, respectively, and the mean gains in serum vitamin E, vitamin B12, and folic acid were 903.52 microg/dL, 233.283 pg/mL, and 0.0279 ng/mL. The mean gain in all biochemical measurements was significantly higher (p < .05) in the experimental group than in the control group. Vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin B12, folic acid, and iron are bioavailable from the multiple-micronutrient food supplement used in this study. This method of micronutrient delivery has been beneficial. We believe the study intervention was beneficial because of small doses of the micronutrients added but delivered many times through meals throughout the day, over a period of 9 months.

Changes in Physiological Parameters after Combined Exercise according to the I/D Polymorphism of hUCP2 Gene in Middle-Aged Obese Females

PubMed Central

DUK OH, Sang

2014-01-01

Abstract Background The purpose of this study was to determine whether a 45 bp insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism in human uncoupling protein 2 (hUCP2) gene was associated with changes in several cardiovascular risk and physical fitness factors in response to combined exercise during 12 weeks in Korean middle-aged women. The changes in physiological parameters after combined exercise during 12 weeks were compared between each genotype subgroups of hUCP2 gene to clarify the inter-individual differences in exercised-induced changes according to genetic predisposition. Methods A total of 185 women aged over 40 years living in Seoul, Korea were participated in this study, and analyzed before and after 12 weeks on combined exercise including aerobic exercise and strength training for body composition, hemodynamic parameters, physical fitness and metabolic variables. A 45 bp I/D polymorphism in hUCP2 gene was genotyped by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification and agarose gel electrophoresis method. Results Combined exercise program during 12 weeks indicated the significant health-promoting effects for our participants on multiple body composition, hemodynamic parameters, physical fitness factors and metabolic parameters, respectively. With respect to a 45 bp I/D polymorphism in hUCP2 gene, this polymorphism was significantly associated with baseline %body fat of our participants (P <.05). Moreover, this polymorphism was significantly associated with the changes in %body fat and serum triglyceride(TG) level after combined exercise program during 12 weeks(P <.05). Conclusion Our data suggest that a 45 bp I/D polymorphism in hUCP2 gene may at least in part contribute to the inter-individual differences on the changes in some clinical and metabolic parameters following combined exercise in middle-aged women. PMID:25909061

A Randomized Trial of Soft Multifocal Contact Lenses for Myopia Control: Baseline Data and Methods.

PubMed

Walline, Jeffrey J; Gaume Giannoni, Amber; Sinnott, Loraine T; Chandler, Moriah A; Huang, Juan; Mutti, Donald O; Jones-Jordan, Lisa A; Berntsen, David A

2017-09-01

The Bifocal Lenses In Nearsighted Kids (BLINK) study is the first soft multifocal contact lens myopia control study to compare add powers and measure peripheral refractive error in the vertical meridian, so it will provide important information about the potential mechanism of myopia control. The BLINK study is a National Eye Institute-sponsored, double-masked, randomized clinical trial to investigate the effects of soft multifocal contact lenses on myopia progression. This article describes the subjects' baseline characteristics and study methods. Subjects were 7 to 11 years old, had -0.75 to -5.00 spherical component and less than 1.00 diopter (D) astigmatism, and had 20/25 or better logMAR distance visual acuity with manifest refraction in each eye and with +2.50-D add soft bifocal contact lenses on both eyes. Children were randomly assigned to wear Biofinity single-vision, Biofinity Multifocal "D" with a +1.50-D add power, or Biofinity Multifocal "D" with a +2.50-D add power contact lenses. We examined 443 subjects at the baseline visits, and 294 (66.4%) subjects were enrolled. Of the enrolled subjects, 177 (60.2%) were female, and 200 (68%) were white. The mean (± SD) age was 10.3 ± 1.2 years, and 117 (39.8%) of the eligible subjects were younger than 10 years. The mean spherical equivalent refractive error, measured by cycloplegic autorefraction was -2.39 ± 1.00 D. The best-corrected binocular logMAR visual acuity with glasses was +0.01 ± 0.06 (20/21) at distance and -0.03 ± 0.08 (20/18) at near. The BLINK study subjects are similar to patients who would routinely be eligible for myopia control in practice, so the results will provide clinical information about soft bifocal contact lens myopia control as well as information about the mechanism of the treatment effect, if one occurs.

Thrombus Burden of Deep Vein Thrombosis and Its Association with Thromboprophylaxis and D-Dimer Measurement: Insights from the APEX Trial.

PubMed

Chi, Gerald; Goldhaber, Samuel Z; Hull, Russell D; Hernandez, Adrian F; Kerneis, Mathieu; Al Khalfan, Fahad; Cohen, Alexander T; Harrington, Robert A; Gibson, C Michael

2017-12-01

Background The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of betrixaban on the occurrence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and also the extent of thrombus and to assess the association of baseline D-dimer with subsequent thrombus burden. Methods In the APEX trial (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01583218), 7,513 acutely ill hospitalized medical patients were randomly assigned to extended-duration betrixaban (35–42 days) or enoxaparin (10 ± 4 days). D-dimer concentration was measured at baseline, and mandatory lower-extremity compression ultrasonography (CUS) was performed at 35 to 42 days. The thrombus burden of DVT was assessed by the number of non-compressible vascular segments in six target proximal veins and compared between treatment groups and D-dimer categories (≥2 × upper limit of normal [ULN] versus <2 × ULN). Results Compared with enoxaparin, extended-duration betrixaban reduced the DVT risk at 35 to 42 days (any-dose: relative risk [RR] = 0.76 [95% confidence interval: 0.61–0.94]; p = 0.013; full-dose: RR = 0.70 [0.55–0.90]; p = 0.005). Patients who received betrixaban were more likely to have a lower thrombus burden (p = 0.012 for any-dose and p = 0.001 for full-dose). Elevated D-dimer at baseline was independently associated with a 2.12-fold increased risk of developing DVT (p < 0.001). A greater thrombus burden was also observed in those with D-dimer ≥ 2 × ULN compared with <2 × ULN (p < 0.0001). Conclusion Extended-duration betrixaban reduced the number of venous segments with thrombosis at 35 to 42 days compared with enoxaparin. A positive D-dimer was associated with a greater extent of thrombus burden among acutely ill medical patients who developed DVT despite receiving thromboprophylaxis.

Vitamin D Insufficiency and Cognitive Function Trajectories in Older Adults: The Rancho Bernardo Study.

PubMed

Laughlin, Gail A; Kritz-Silverstein, Donna; Bergstrom, Jaclyn; Reas, Emilie T; Jassal, Simerjot K; Barrett-Connor, Elizabeth; McEvoy, Linda K

2017-01-01

Evidence of a role for vitamin D (VitD) in cognitive aging is mixed and based primarily on extreme VitD deficiency. We evaluated the association of VitD insufficiency with cognitive function in older, community-dwelling adults living in a temperate climate with year-round sunshine. A population-based longitudinal study of 1,058 adults (median age 75; 62% women) who had cognitive function assessed and serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitaminD (25OHD) measured in 1997-99 and were followed for up to three additional cognitive function assessments over a 12-year period. Overall, 14% (n = 145) of participants had VitD insufficiency defined as 25OHD <30 ng/ml. Adjusting for age, sex, education, and season, VitD insufficiency was associated with poorer baseline performance on the Mini-Mental Status Exam (MMSE) (p = 0.013), Trails Making Test B (Trails B) (p = 0.015), Category Fluency (p = 0.006), and Long Term Retrieval (p = 0.019); differences were equivalent to 5 years of age. For those with VitD insufficiency, the odds of mildly impaired performance at baseline were 38% higher for MMSE (p = 0.08), 78% higher for Trails B (p = 0.017), and 2-fold higher for Category Fluency and Long Term Retrieval (both p = 0.001). VitD insufficiency was not related to the rate of cognitive decline on any test or the risk of developing impaired performance during follow-up. In this population with little VitD deficiency, even moderately low VitD was associated with poorer performance on multiple domains of cognitive function. Low VitD did not predict 12-year cognitive decline. Clinical trials are essential to establish a causal link between VitD and cognitive well-being.

Maladaptive cognitions predict changes in problematic gaming in highly-engaged adults: A 12-month longitudinal study.

PubMed

Forrest, Cameron J; King, Daniel L; Delfabbro, Paul H

2017-02-01

Understanding the role of maladaptive gaming-related cognitions may assist in screening and interventions for problematic gaming, including Internet gaming disorder (IGD). Cognitive-behavioural interventions that target specific cognitions related to gaming may be more effective than more general approaches that focus only on preoccupation with games. Although past research has identified cross-sectional associations between maladaptive cognitions and problematic gaming, it is less clear whether these cognitions can predict future changes in problematic gaming behaviour. The present study employed an 18-item measure of gaming cognition, assessing perfectionism, cognitive salience, regret, and behavioural salience, to investigate potential changes in problematic gaming over a 12-month period. The sample included 465 Australian adults (84% male, M age =26.2years). It was found that individuals who became problematic gamers over 12months had higher baseline scores on perfectionism (d=1.20), cognitive salience (d=0.74) and regret (d=0.69) than those who remained non-problematic gamers. Problematic gamers who became non-problematic gamers had lower baseline perfectionism scores (d=0.62) than those who remained problematic gamers. Cognitive change accounted for an additional 28% of variance in problematic gaming scores beyond gender, age, and frequency of gaming. These findings suggest that maladaptive gaming-related cognitions could be screened in clinical trials to aid in case formulation and inform decisions on needed interventions to deliver optimal client outcomes. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Influence of delayed gadolinium enhanced MRI of cartilage (dGEMRIC) protocol on T2-mapping: is it possible to comprehensively assess knee cartilage composition in one post-contrast MR examination at 3 Tesla?

PubMed

Verschueren, J; van Tiel, J; Reijman, M; Bron, E E; Klein, S; Verhaar, J A N; Bierma-Zeinstra, S M A; Krestin, G P; Wielopolski, P A; Oei, E H G

2017-09-01

To evaluate the possibility of assessing knee cartilage with T2-mapping and delayed gadolinium enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of cartilage (dGEMRIC) in one post-contrast MR examination at 3 Tesla (T). T2 mapping was performed in 10 healthy volunteers at baseline; directly after baseline; after 10 min of cycling; and after 90 min delay, and in 16 osteoarthritis patients before and after intravenous administration of a double dose gadolinium dimeglumine contrast agent, reflecting key dGEMRIC protocol elements. Differences in T2 relaxation times between each timepoint and baseline were calculated for 6 cartilage regions using paired t tests or Wilcoxon signed-rank tests and the smallest detectable change (SDC). After cycling, a significant change in T2 relaxation times was found in the lateral weight-bearing tibial plateau (+1.0 ms, P = 0.04). After 90 min delay, significant changes were found in the lateral weight-bearing femoral condyle (+1.2 ms, P = 0.03) and the lateral weight-bearing tibial plateau (+1.3 ms, P = 0.01). In these regions of interests (ROIs), absolute differences were small and lower than the corresponding SDCs. T2-mapping after contrast administration only showed statistically significantly lower T2 relaxation times in the medial posterior femoral condyle (-2.4 ms, P < 0.001) with a change exceeding the SDC. Because dGEMRIC protocol elements resulted in only small differences in T2 relaxation times that were not consistent and lower than the SDC in the majority of regions, our results suggest that T2-mapping and dGEMRIC can be performed reliably in a single imaging session to assess cartilage biochemical composition in knee osteoarthritis (OA) at 3 T. Copyright © 2017 Osteoarthritis Research Society International. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effect of one time high dose "stoss therapy" of vitamin D on glucose homeostasis in high risk obese adolescents.

PubMed

Brar, Preneet Cheema; Contreras, Maria; Fan, Xiaozhou; Visavachaipan, Nipapat

2018-04-05

To study the effect of using a one time high dose "stoss therapy" of vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol: VD2) on indices of insulin sensitivity {whole body sensitivity index: WBISI} and secretion {insulinogenic index: IGI} measured during an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) in obese adolescents with VDD (25 OHD; serum metabolite of vit D: < 30 ng/dL). In a randomized placebo controlled cross over design 20 obese adolescents with vitamin D deficiency (VDD) had baseline OGTT. Arm A received one time high dose 300,000 IU of ergocalciferol and Arm B received placebo. After 6 weeks the adolescents were reassigned to Arm A if they were in Arm B and vice versa. 25OHD, calcium, parathyroid hormone, comprehensive metabolic panel, urine calcium creatinine ratio were measured at each study visit. OGTTs to assess indices of sensitivity and secretion were done at baseline, 6 weeks and 12 weeks respectively. Adolescents were obese and insulin resistant (mean ± SD: mean age = 15.1 ± 1.9 years; BMI: 32.7 ± 9.8; homeostatic model of insulin resistance: HOMA-IR: 4.2 ± 2.8). Stoss therapy with VD2 increased 25OHD from baseline (16.7 ± 2.9 to 19.5 ± 4.5; p = 0.0029) when compared to the placebo. WBISI (2.8 ± 1.9) showed a trend towards improvement in Rx group (p = 0.0577) after adjustment for covariates. IGI (3 ± 2.2) showed an improvement in both Rx and placebo groups. Our study demonstrated that using a high dose of VD2 (300,000 IU) did not have any beneficial effect on insulin sensitivity (whole body sensitivity index {WBISI}) and secretory indices (insulinogenic index {IGI}) in obese adolescents. High dose "stoss therapy" of VD2 did not appear to have any beneficial effect on glucose homeostasis on obese adolescents.

The relationship among multiple patient-reported outcomes measures for patients with ulcerative colitis receiving treatment with MMX ® formulated delayed-release mesalamine.

PubMed

Yarlas, Aaron; Yen, Linnette; Hodgkins, Paul

2015-03-01

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is associated with impaired health-related quality of life (HRQL) and work-related outcomes (WRO). This analysis examined correspondences among measures of HRQL and WRO in patients with UC, as well as the magnitude of each measure's responsiveness to disease activity and treatment. An open-label, prospective trial of delayed-release mesalamine tablets formulated with MMX(®) technology included 8 weeks of treatment for patients with active mild-to-moderate UC (n = 137) and 12 months of maintenance treatment for patients with quiescent UC (n = 206). Spearman correlations (ρ) measured inter-domain associations across measures of generic HRQL [12-item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-12v2)], disease-specific HRQL [Short Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire (SIBDQ)], and disease-specific WRO [Work Productivity and Activity Impairment for Specific Health Problems (WPAI:SHP)]. Responsiveness to disease activity and treatment was assessed for each instrument. Changes in scores from baseline to week 8 were moderately correlated across all instrument domains: 65 of 80 (81 %) between-instrument inter-domain correlations were of moderate magnitude (0.30 < ρ < 0.70), with an average magnitude of 0.42 [95 % confidence interval (CI) 0.38-0.46]. Associations between symptom measures were stronger for SIBDQ (|average ρ| = 0.41; 95 % CI 0.34-0.48) and WPAI:SHP (0.40; 0.30-0.47) than SF-12v2 (0.30; 0.27-0.34). SIBDQ was most sensitive to treatment [effect size (d z ) for change from baseline to week 8 = 0.62; 95 % CI 0.35-0.89], followed by WPAI:SHP (d z = 0.43; 0.32-0.54) and SF-12v2 (d z = 0.33; 0.27-0.39). While the SIBDQ showed the greatest overall responsiveness to disease activity and treatment, all three patient-reported outcomes instruments provided complementary interpretive information regarding the impact of UC treatment.

Diabetes Self-Management Education and Medical Nutrition Therapy Improve Patient Outcomes: A Pilot Study Documenting the Efficacy of Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Interventions through Retrospective Chart Review.

PubMed

Marincic, Patricia Z; Hardin, Amie; Salazar, Maria V; Scott, Susan; Fan, Shirley X; Gaillard, Philippe R

2017-08-01

Diabetes self-management education (DSME) and medical nutrition therapy (MNT) improve patient outcomes; poor reimbursement limits access to care. Our aim was to develop methodology for tracking patient outcomes subsequent to registered dietitian nutritionist interventions, document outcomes for patients with type 2 diabetes attending an American Diabetes Association-recognized program, and obtain outcome data to support reimbursement and public policy initiatives to improve patient access to DSME and MNT. Retrospective chart review. A random sample of 100 charts was chosen from the electronic medical records of patients with type 2 diabetes completing DSME and individualized MNT, June 2013 to 2014. Data were extracted on body mass index (calculated as kg/m 2 ), weight, hemoglobin A1c, blood glucose, and lipids. Mixed-model analysis of variance was used to determine differences between means for continuous variables; McNemar's tests and γ-statistic trend analysis were used to assess frequency of patients reaching glycemic targets. Significant weight loss was observed from baseline (94.3±21.1 kg) to end of program (91.7±21.2 kg [-1.6±3.9 kg]; P<0.001); weight loss in whites (-5.0±8.4 kg; P<0.001) exceeded that of African Americans (-0.8±9.0 kg; P>0.05). Significant hemoglobin A1c reduction was observed from baseline (8.74%±2.30%) to end of program (6.82%±1.37% [-1.92%±2.25%]; P<0.001) and retained at 1 year (6.90%±1.16%; P<0.001). Comparatively, 72% of patients reached hemoglobin A1c targets (≤7.0%) vs 27% at baseline (P=0.008). When stratified by diet alone and diet plus drug therapy, patients exhibited a 1.08%±1.20% (P<0.001) and 2.36%±2.53% (P<0.001) reduction in hemoglobin A1c, respectively. Triglycerides decreased from baseline 181.6±75.5 mg/dL (2.0±0.9 mmol/L) to 115.8±48.1 mg/dL (1.3±0.5mmol/L) (P=0.023). High-density lipoprotein increased from 41.4±12.4 mg/dL (1.1±0.3 mmol/L) to 47.3±12.4 mg/dL (1.2±0.3 mmol/L) (P=0.007). Retrospective chart review provides an operational model for abstracting existing patient outcome data subsequent to registered dietitian nutritionist interventions. In support of universal reimbursement and patient access to DSME with supplemental individualized MNT, reductions were observed in key outcome measures weight, body mass index, hemoglobin A1c, and triglycerides. Copyright © 2017 Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Unsteady Flow Simulations in Support of the SSME HEX Turning Vane Cracking Investigation with the ATD HPOTP

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dougherty, N. S.; Burnette, D. W.; Holt, J. B.; Nesman, T.

1993-01-01

Unsteady flow computations are being performed with the P&W (ATD) and the Rocketdyne baseline configurations of the SSME LO2 turbine turnaround duct (TAD) and heat exchanger (HEX). The work is in support of the HEX inner turning vane cracking investigation. Fatigue cracking has occurred during hot firings with the P&W configuration on the HEX inner vane, and it appears the fix will involve changes to the TAD splitter vane position and to the TAD inner wall curvature to reduce the dynamic loading on the inner vane. Unsteady flow computations on the P&W baseline and fix and on the Rocketdyne baseline reference follow steady-flow screening computations done by MSFC/ED32 on several trial configurations arriving at the fix. The P&W TAD inlet velocity profile has a strong radial velocity component that directs the flow toward the inner wall and raises the local velocity a factor of two and the dynamic pressure a factor, of four. The fix is intended to redistribute the flow more evenly across the HEX inner and outer vanes like the Rocketdyne baseline reference. Vane buffeting at frequencies around 4,000 Hz is the leading suspected cause of the problem. Our simulations (work in progress) are being done with the USA 2D axisymmetric code approximating the flow as axisymmetric u+v 2D (axial, u, and radial, v, components only). The HEX coils are included in the model to make sure the fix does not adversely affect the HEX environment. Turbulent kinetic energy, k, levels where k = 1/2 v' rms2 are locally as high as 10,000 ft2/sec2 for the P&W baseline at the engine interface (between the TAD and HEX) at the HEX inner vane location. However, k is less than 8,000 on the HEX outer vane and only about 4,500 on the HEX inner vane for the Rocketdyne baseline. Unsteady turbulence intensity, v'rms/v, and pressure, p', are being computed in the present computations to compare with steady-flow Reynolds-averaged computations where p'rms = const (pk) for overall rms random turbulence from 0.1 to 12,000 Hz frequency. Random overall static, p'rms fluctuations as large as 1.7 psi are estimated from k on the HEX inner vane for the P&W baseline configuration but only about 0.7 psi for the Rocketdyne configuration.

Effect of Stereoscopic Anaglyphic 3-Dimensional Video Didactics on Learning Neuroanatomy.

PubMed

Goodarzi, Amir; Monti, Sara; Lee, Darrin; Girgis, Fady

2017-11-01

The teaching of neuroanatomy in medical education has historically been based on didactic instruction, cadaveric dissections, and intraoperative experience for students. Multiple novel 3-dimensional (3D) modalities have recently emerged. Among these, stereoscopic anaglyphic video is easily accessible and affordable, however, its effects have not yet formally been investigated. This study aimed to investigate if 3D stereoscopic anaglyphic video instruction in neuroanatomy could improve learning for content-naive students, as compared with 2-dimensional (2D) video instruction. A single-site controlled prospective case control study was conducted at the School of Education. Content knowledge was assessed at baseline, followed by the presentation of an instructional neuroanatomy video. Participants viewed the video in either 2D or 3D format and then completed a written test of skull base neuroanatomy. Pretest and post-test performances were analyzed with independent Student's t-tests and analysis of covariance. Our study was completed by 249 subjects. At baseline, the 2D (n = 124, F = 97) and 3D groups (n = 125, F = 96) were similar, although the 3D group was older by 1.7 years (P = 0.0355) and the curricula of participating classes differed (P < 0.0001). Average scores for the 3D group were higher for both pretest (2D, M = 19.9%, standard deviation [SD] = 12.5% vs. 3D, M = 23.9%, SD = 14.9%, P = 0.0234) and post-test performances (2D, M = 68.5%, SD = 18.6% vs. 3D, M = 77.3%, SD = 18.8%, P = 0.003), but the magnitude of improvement across groups did not reach statistical significance (2D, M = 48.7%, SD = 21.3%, vs. 3D, M = 53.5%, SD = 22.7%, P = 0.0855). Incorporation of 3D video instruction into curricula without careful integration is insufficient to promote learning over 2D video. Published by Elsevier Inc.

A randomized, open-label, crossover study comparing the effects of oral versus transdermal estrogen therapy on serum androgens, thyroid hormones, and adrenal hormones in naturally menopausal women.

PubMed

Shifren, Jan L; Desindes, Sophie; McIlwain, Marilyn; Doros, Gheorghe; Mazer, Norman A

2007-01-01

To compare the changes induced by oral versus transdermal estrogen therapy on the total and free serum concentrations of testosterone (T), thyroxine (T4), and cortisol (C) and the concentrations of their serum binding globulins sex hormone-binding globulin, thyroxine-binding globulin, and cortisol-binding globulin in naturally menopausal women. Randomized, open-label, crossover. Interventions included a 6-week withdrawal from previous hormone therapy (baseline), followed in randomized order by 12 weeks of oral conjugated equine estrogens (CEE) (0.625 mg/d) and 12 weeks of transdermal estradiol (TD E2) (0.05 mg/d), with oral micronized progesterone (100 mg/d) given continuously during both transdermal estrogen therapy regimens. Twenty-seven women were enrolled in the study, and 25 completed both treatment periods. The mean(SD) percentage changes from baseline of sex hormone-binding globulin, total T, and free T with oral CEE were +132.1% (74.5%), +16.4% (43.8%), and -32.7% (25.9%), respectively, versus +12.0% (25.1%), +1.2% (43.7%), and +1.0% (45.0%) with TD E2. The mean (SD) percentage changes of thyroxine-binding globulin, total T4, and free T4 with oral CEE were +39.9% (20.1%), +28.4% (29.2%), and -10.4% (22.3%), respectively, versus +0.4% (11.1%), -0.7% (16.5%), and +0.2% (26.6%) with TD E2. The mean (SD) percentage changes of cortisol-binding globulin, total C, and free C with oral CEE were +18.0% (19.5%), +29.2% (46.3%), and +50.4% (126.5%), respectively, versus -2.2% (11.3%), -6.7% (30.8%), and +1.8% (77.1%) with TD E2. Concentrations of all hormones and binding globulins were significantly different (P < or = 0.003) during administration of oral versus transdermal estrogen therapy, except for free T4 and free C. Compared with oral CEE, TD E2 exerts minimal effects on the total and free concentrations of T, T4, and C and their binding proteins.

Choline-stabilized orthosilicic acid supplementation as an adjunct to Calcium/Vitamin D3 stimulates markers of bone formation in osteopenic females: a randomized, placebo-controlled trial

PubMed Central

Spector, Tim D; Calomme, Mario R; Anderson, Simon H; Clement, Gail; Bevan, Liisa; Demeester, Nathalie; Swaminathan, Rami; Jugdaohsingh, Ravin; Berghe, Dirk A Vanden; Powell, Jonathan J

2008-01-01

Background Mounting evidence supports a physiological role for silicon (Si) as orthosilicic acid (OSA, Si(OH)4) in bone formation. The effect of oral choline-stabilized orthosilicic acid (ch-OSA) on markers of bone turnover and bone mineral density (BMD) was investigated in a double-blind placebo-controlled trial. Methods Over 12-months, 136 women out of 184 randomized (T-score spine < -1.5) completed the study and received, daily, 1000 mg Ca and 20 μg cholecalciferol (Vit D3) and three different ch-OSA doses (3, 6 and 12 mg Si) or placebo. Bone formation markers in serum and urinary resorption markers were measured at baseline, and after 6 and 12 months. Femoral and lumbar BMD were measured at baseline and after 12 months by DEXA. Results Overall, there was a trend for ch-OSA to confer some additional benefit to Ca and Vit D3 treatment, especially for markers of bone formation, but only the marker for type I collagen formation (PINP) was significant at 12 months for the 6 and 12 mg Si dose (vs. placebo) without a clear dose response effect. A trend for a dose-corresponding increase was observed in the bone resorption marker, collagen type I C-terminal telopeptide (CTX-I). Lumbar spine BMD did not change significantly. Post-hoc subgroup analysis (baseline T-score femur < -1) however was significant for the 6 mg dose at the femoral neck (T-test). There were no ch-OSA related adverse events observed and biochemical safety parameters remained within the normal range. Conclusion Combined therapy of ch-OSA and Ca/Vit D3 had a potential beneficial effect on bone collagen compared to Ca/Vit D3 alone which suggests that this treatment is of potential use in osteoporosis. NTR 1029 PMID:18547426

SUBTASK 7.2 GLOBAL WARMING AND GREEHOUSE GASES

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

Jaroslav Solc; Kurt Eylands; Jaroslav Solc Jr.

2005-01-01

Evaluation of current climatic trends and reconstruction of paleoclimatic conditions for Devils Lake have been conducted based on diatom-inferred salinity for the last 2000 years. The 3-year cross-disciplinary research, funded by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) was carried out by the Energy & Environmental Research Center (EERC) and St. Croix Watershed Research Station (SCWRS) at the Science Museum of Minnesota. The results indicate that frequent climatic fluctuations resulting in alternating periods of drought and wet conditions are typical for the northern Great Plains and suggest that the severity and length of extremes exceeded those on modern record. Devils Lakemore » has experienced five fresh periods and two minor freshening periods in the last 2000 years. Transitions between fresh and saline periods have been relatively fast, representing lake level changes that have been similar to those observed in the last 150 years. From 0 to 1070 A.D., Devils Lake showed more variable behavior, with fresh phases centered at 200, 500, 700, and 1000 A.D. From 1070 A.D. to present, Devils Lake was generally saline, experiencing two minor freshening periods at 1305-1315 and 1800-1820 A.D and the major current freshening from 1960 A.D. to present.« less

Lorcaserin (APD356), a selective 5-HT(2C) agonist, reduces body weight in obese men and women.

PubMed

Smith, Steven R; Prosser, Warren A; Donahue, David J; Morgan, Michael E; Anderson, Christen M; Shanahan, William R

2009-03-01

Lorcaserin (APD356) is a potent, selective 5-HT(2C) agonist with ~15-fold and 100-fold selectivity vs. 5-HT(2A) and 5-HT(2B) receptors, respectively. This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of lorcaserin for weight reduction in obese patients during a 12-week period. The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-arm study enrolled 469 men and women between ages 18 and 65 and with BMI 30-45 kg/m(2). Patients received placebo, lorcaserin 10 mg q.d., lorcaserin 15 mg q.d., or lorcaserin 10 mg b.i.d. for 12 weeks, and were counseled to maintain their usual diet and activity. The primary end point was change in weight from baseline to day 85 by completer analysis. Safety analyses included echocardiograms at Screening and day 85/study exit. Lorcaserin was associated with progressive weight loss of 1.8 kg, 2.6 kg, and 3.6 kg at 10 mg q.d., 15 mg q.d., and 10 mg b.i.d., respectively, compared to placebo weight loss of 0.3 kg (P < 0.001 for each group). Similar results were seen by intent-to-treat last observation-carried forward (ITT-LOCF) analysis. The proportions of completers achieving > or =5% of initial body weight were 12.8, 19.5, 31.2, and 2.3% in the 10 mg q.d., 15 mg q.d., 10 mg b.i.d., and placebo groups, respectively. The most frequent adverse events (AEs) were transient headache, nausea, and dizziness. Echocardiograms showed no apparent drug-related effects on heart valves or pulmonary artery pressure (PAP). Lorcaserin was well tolerated and efficacious for weight reduction in this 12-week study. Longer-term trials employing behavior modification will be needed to more fully assess its safety and efficacy.

Sugar-sweetened product consumption alters glucose homeostasis compared with dairy product consumption in men and women at risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Maki, Kevin C; Nieman, Kristin M; Schild, Arianne L; Kaden, Valerie N; Lawless, Andrea L; Kelley, Kathleen M; Rains, Tia M

2015-03-01

Dietary patterns characterized by high intakes of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, and low glycemic load have been associated with lower type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) risk. In contrast, dietary patterns that include high intakes of refined grains, processed meats, and high amounts of added sugars have been associated with increased T2DM risk. This randomized, 2-period crossover trial compared the effects of dairy and sugar-sweetened product (SSP) consumption on insulin sensitivity and pancreatic β-cell function in men and women at risk of the development of T2DM who habitually consume sugar-sweetened beverages. In a randomized, controlled crossover trial, participants consumed dairy products (474 mL/d 2% milk and 170 g/d low-fat yogurt) and SSPs (710 mL/d nondiet soda and 108 g/d nondairy pudding), each for 6 wk, with a 2-wk washout between treatments. A liquid meal tolerance test (LMTT) was administered at baseline and the end of each period. Participants were 50% female with a mean age and body mass index of 53.8 y and 32.2 kg/m(2), respectively. Changes from baseline were significantly different between dairy product and SSP conditions for median homeostasis model assessment 2-insulin sensitivity (HOMA2-%S) (1.3 vs. -21.3%, respectively, P = 0.009; baseline = 118%), mean LMTT disposition index (-0.03 vs. -0.36, respectively, P = 0.011; baseline = 2.59), mean HDL cholesterol (0.8 vs. -4.2%, respectively, P = 0.015; baseline = 44.3 mg/dL), and mean serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] (11.7 vs. -3.3, respectively, P = 0.022; baseline = 24.5 μg/L). Changes from baseline in LMTT Matsuda insulin sensitivity index (-0.10 vs. -0.49, respectively; baseline = 4.16) and mean HOMA2-β-cell function (-2.0 vs. 5.3%, respectively; baseline = 72.6%) did not differ significantly between treatments. These results suggest that SSP consumption is associated with less favorable values for HOMA2-%S, LMTT disposition index, HDL cholesterol, and serum 25(OH)D in men and women at risk of T2DM vs. baseline values and values during dairy product consumption. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01936935. © 2015 American Society for Nutrition.

Long-term citicoline (cytidine diphosphate choline) use in patients with vascular dementia: neuroimaging and neuropsychological outcomes.

PubMed

Cohen, Ronald A; Browndyke, Jeffrey N; Moser, David J; Paul, Robert H; Gordon, Norman; Sweet, Lawrence

2003-01-01

Cytidine diphosphate choline (citicoline) has been previously shown to have efficacy in reducing the functional impairments associated with acute stroke. Citicoline is thought to have neuroprotective benefits and has been used for the treatment of chronic cerebrovascular disorders, though its effectiveness has not been fully tested. This randomized, double-blind clinical trial was conducted to determine whether daily citicoline treatment improves neurocognitive and neuroimaging outcome over 12 months among patients diagnosed with vascular dementia (VaD). 30 patients diagnosed with VaD, based upon NINDS-AIREN and DSM-IV criteria, were randomized and treated with either 500 mg of citicoline or placebo twice per day. Patients were assessed at baseline, and at 6, and 12 months on a battery of neurocognitive tests. Neuroimaging measures of total brain volume and subcortical/periventricular hyperintensity (SH) volume on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were collected at baseline and the 12-month follow-up. The citicoline and placebo treatment groups did not differ in their neuropsychological performance at baseline and the 12-month follow-up. Significant declines in neuropsychological performance were noted, as well as significantly increased SH and reduced total brain volumes on MRI for both groups at the 12-month follow-up. The efficacy of long-term citicoline treatment for cognitive impairment and neuropathological decline in those patients already meeting criteria for VaD does not appear to be substantiated by the current study. Copyright 2003 S. Karger AG, Basel

Serum carbon isotope values change in adults in response to changes in sugar-sweetened beverage intake.

PubMed

Fakhouri, Tala H I; Jahren, A Hope; Appel, Lawrence J; Chen, Liwei; Alavi, Reza; Anderson, Cheryl A M

2014-06-01

Serum carbon isotope values [13C-to-12C serum carbon isotope ratio (δ(13)C)], which reflect consumption of corn- and cane-based foods, differ between persons consuming high and low amounts of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs). In this study, we determined whether serum δ(13)C changes in response to change in SSB intake during an 18-mo behavioral intervention trial. Data were from a subset of 144 participants from the PREMIER trial, a completed behavioral intervention (Maryland, 1998-2004). SSB intake was assessed using 2 24-h dietary recall interviews. Blinded serum samples were assayed for δ(13)C by natural abundance stable isotope mass spectroscopy. Multiple linear regression models with generalized estimating equations and robust variance estimation were used. At baseline, mean SSB intake was 13.8 ± 14.2 fl oz/d, and mean δ(13)C serum value was -19.3 ± 0.6 units per mil (designated ‰). A reduction of 12 oz (355 mL)/d SSB (equivalent to 1 can of soda per day) was associated with 0.17‰ (95% CI: 0.08‰, 0.25‰ P < 0.0001) reduction in serum δ(13)C values over 18 mo (equivalent to a 1% reduction in δ(13)C from baseline). After adjusting for potential confounders, a reduction of 12 oz/d SSB (equivalent to 1 can of soda per day), over an 18-mo period, was associated with 0.12‰ (95% CI: 0.01‰, 0.22‰ P = 0.025) reduction in serum δ(13)C. These findings suggest that serum δ(13)C can be used as a measure of dietary changes in SSB intake. © 2014 American Society for Nutrition.

Evaluation of a multidisciplinary Tier 3 weight management service for adults with morbid obesity, or obesity and comorbidities, based in primary care

PubMed Central

Jennings, A; Hughes, C A; Kumaravel, B; Bachmann, M O; Steel, N; Capehorn, M; Cheema, K

2014-01-01

A multidisciplinary Tier 3 weight management service in primary care recruited patients with a body mass index ≥40 kg·m−2, or 30 kg·m−2 with obesity-related co-morbidity to a 1-year programme. A cohort of 230 participants was recruited and evaluated using the National Obesity Observatory Standard Evaluation Framework. The primary outcome was weight loss of at least 5% of baseline weight at 12 months. Diet was assessed using the two-item food frequency questionnaire, activity using the General Practice Physical Activity questionnaire and quality of life using the EuroQol-5D-5L questionnaire. A focus group explored the participants' experiences. Baseline mean weight was 124.4 kg and mean body mass index was 44.1 kg·m−2. A total of 102 participants achieved 5% weight loss at 12 months. The mean weight loss was 10.2 kg among the 117 participants who completed the 12-month programme. Baseline observation carried forward analysis gave a mean weight loss of 5.9 kg at 12 months. Fruit and vegetable intake, activity level and quality of life all improved. The dropout rate was 14.3% at 6 months and 45.1% at 1 year. Focus group participants described high levels of satisfaction. It was possible to deliver a Tier 3 weight management service for obese patients with complex co-morbidity in a primary care setting with a full multidisciplinary team, which obtained good health outcomes compared with existing services. PMID:25825858

The extent of intestinal failure-associated liver disease in patients referred for intestinal rehabilitation is associated with increased mortality: an analysis of the pediatric intestinal failure consortium database.

PubMed

Javid, Patrick J; Oron, Assaf P; Duggan, Christopher; Squires, Robert H; Horslen, Simon P

2017-09-05

The advent of regional multidisciplinary intestinal rehabilitation programs has been associated with improved survival in pediatric intestinal failure. Yet, the optimal timing of referral for intestinal rehabilitation remains unknown. We hypothesized that the degree of intestinal failure-associated liver disease (IFALD) at initiation of intestinal rehabilitation would be associated with overall outcome. The multicenter, retrospective Pediatric Intestinal Failure Consortium (PIFCon) database was used to identify all subjects with baseline bilirubin data. Conjugated bilirubin (CBili) was used as a marker for IFALD, and we stratified baseline bilirubin values as CBili<2 mg/dL, CBili 2-4 mg/dL, and CBili>4 mg/dL. The association between baseline CBili and mortality was examined using Cox proportional hazards regression. Of 272 subjects in the database, 191 (70%) children had baseline bilirubin data collected. 38% and 28% of patients had CBili >4 mg/dL and CBili <2 mg/dL, respectively, at baseline. All-cause mortality was 23%. On univariate analysis, mortality was associated with CBili 2-4 mg/dL, CBili >4 mg/dL, prematurity, race, and small bowel atresia. On regression analysis controlling for age, prematurity, and diagnosis, the risk of mortality was increased by 3-fold for baseline CBili 2-4 mg/dL (HR 3.25 [1.07-9.92], p=0.04) and 4-fold for baseline CBili >4 mg/dL (HR 4.24 [1.51-11.92], p=0.006). On secondary analysis, CBili >4 mg/dL at baseline was associated with a lower chance of attaining enteral autonomy. In children with intestinal failure treated at intestinal rehabilitation programs, more advanced IFALD at referral is associated with increased mortality and decreased prospect of attaining enteral autonomy. Early referral of children with intestinal failure to intestinal rehabilitation programs should be strongly encouraged. Treatment Study, Level III. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Type 2 diabetes, adiposity and cancer morbidity and mortality risk taking into account competing risk of noncancer deaths in a prospective cohort setting

PubMed Central

Gullberg, Bo; Sonestedt, Emily; Stocks, Tanja; Bjartell, Anders; Wirfält, Elisabet; Wallström, Peter; Orho‐Melander, Marju

2017-01-01

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) and adiposity associate with increased risk of several cancers, but the impact of competing risk of noncancer deaths on these associations is not known. We prospectively examined participants in the Malmö Diet and Cancer Study aged 44–73 years with no history of cancer at baseline (n = 26,953, 43% men). T2D was ascertained at baseline and during follow‐up, and body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) at baseline. Multivariable cause‐specific hazard ratios (HR) and subdistribution hazard ratios (sHR), taking into account noncancer deaths, were estimated using Cox‐ and competing risk regression. During follow‐up (mean 17 years), 7,061 incident cancers (3,220 obesity‐related cancer types) and 2,848 cancer deaths occurred. BMI and WC were associated with increased risk of obesity‐related cancer incidence and cancer mortality. In T2D subjects, risk of obesity‐related cancer was elevated among men (HR = 1.31, 95% CI: 1.12–1.54; sHR = 1.29, 95% CI: 1.10–1.52), and cancer mortality among both men and women (HR = 1.34, 95% CI: 1.20–1.49; sHR = 1.30, 95% CI: 1.16–1.45). There was no elevated actual risk of cancer death in T2D patients with long disease duration (sHR = 1.00, 95% CI: 0.83–1.20). There was a significant additive effect of T2D and adiposity on risk of obesity‐related cancer and cancer mortality. In conclusion, detection bias may partially explain the increased risk of cancer morbidity among T2D patients. Both excess risk of competing events among patients with T2D and depletion of susceptibles due to earlier cancer detection will lower the actual risk of cancer, particularly with longer diabetes duration and at older ages. PMID:28593629

Hypocalcaemia in patients with metastatic bone disease treated with denosumab.

PubMed

Body, Jean-Jacques; Bone, Henry G; de Boer, Richard H; Stopeck, Alison; Van Poznak, Catherine; Damião, Ronaldo; Fizazi, Karim; Henry, David H; Ibrahim, Toni; Lipton, Allan; Saad, Fred; Shore, Neal; Takano, Toshimi; Shaywitz, Adam J; Wang, Huei; Bracco, Oswaldo L; Braun, Ada; Kostenuik, Paul J

2015-09-01

This analysis was performed to further characterise treatment-emergent hypocalcaemia in patients with bone metastases receiving denosumab. Laboratory abnormalities and adverse events of hypocalcaemia in patients with metastatic bone disease were analysed using data from three identically designed phase 3 trials of subcutaneous denosumab 120 mg (n = 2841) versus intravenous zoledronic acid 4 mg (n = 2836). The overall incidence of laboratory events of hypocalcaemia grade ⩾ 2 was higher with denosumab (12.4%) than with zoledronic acid (5.3%). Hypocalcaemia events were primarily grade 2 in severity and usually occurred within the first 6 months of treatment. Patients who reported taking calcium and/or vitamin D supplements had a lower incidence of hypocalcaemia. Prostate cancer or small-cell lung cancer, reduced creatinine clearance and higher baseline bone turnover markers of urinary N-telopeptide of type I collagen (uNTx; > 50 versus ⩽ 50 nmol/mmol) and bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (BSAP; > 20.77 μg/L [median] versus ⩽ 20.77 μg/L) values were important risk factors for developing hypocalcaemia. The risk associated with increased baseline BSAP levels was greater among patients who had > 2 bone metastases at baseline versus those with ⩽ 2 bone metastases at baseline. Hypocalcaemia was more frequent with denosumab versus zoledronic acid, consistent with denosumab's greater antiresorptive effect. Low serum calcium levels and potential vitamin D deficiency should be corrected before initiating treatment with a potent osteoclast inhibitor, and corrected serum calcium levels should be monitored during treatment. Adequate calcium and vitamin D intake appears to substantially reduce the risk of hypocalcaemia. Copyright © 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

The efficacy and safety of Ginkgo biloba extract as an adjuvant in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients ineffectively managed with metformin: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial

PubMed Central

Aziz, Tavga Ahmed; Hussain, Saad Abdulrahman; Mahwi, Taha Othman; Ahmed, Zheen Aorahman; Rahman, Heshu Sulaiman; Rasedee, Abdullah

2018-01-01

Background and aim Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is one of the major diseases confronting the health care systems. In diabetes mellitus (DM), combined use of oral hypoglycemic medications has been shown to be more effective than metformin (Met) alone in glycemic control. This study determined the effects of Ginkgo biloba (GKB) extract as an adjuvant to Met in patients with uncontrolled T2DM. Subjects and methods Sixty T2DM patients were recruited in a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blinded, and multicenter trial. The patients, currently using Met, were randomly grouped into those treated with either GKB extract (120 mg/day) or placebo (starch, 120 mg/day) for 90 days. Blood glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting serum glucose, serum insulin, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), insulin resistance, and visceral adiposity index (VAI) were determined before (baseline) and after 90 days of GKB extract treatment. Results GKB extract significantly decreased blood HbA1c (7.7%±1.2% vs baseline 8.6%±1.6%, P<0.001), fasting serum glucose (154.7±36.1 mg/dL vs baseline 194.4±66.1 mg/dL, P<0.001) and insulin (13.4±7.8 μU/mL vs baseline 18.5±8.9 μU/mL, P=0.006) levels, BMI (31.6±5.1 kg/m2 vs baseline 34.0±6.0 kg/m2, P<0.001), waist WC (102.6±10.5 cm vs baseline 106.0±10.9 cm, P<0.001), and VAI (158.9±67.2 vs baseline 192.0±86.2, P=0.007). GKB extract did not negatively impact the liver, kidney, or hematopoietic functions. Conclusion GKB extract as an adjuvant was effective in improving Met treatment outcomes in T2DM patients. Thus, it is suggested that GKB extract is an effective dietary supplement for the control of DM in humans. PMID:29670330

Effects of renal sympathetic denervation on blood pressure and glycaemic control in patients with true resistant hypertension: results of Polish Renal Denervation Registry (RDN-POL Registry).

PubMed

Kądziela, Jacek; Prejbisz, Aleksander; Kostka-Jeziorny, Katarzyna; Dudek, Dariusz; Narkiewicz, Krzysztof; Sadowski, Jerzy; Lekston, Andrzej; Gziut, Aneta; Więcek, Andrzej; Buszman, Paweł; Kleinrok, Andrzej; Kochman, Janusz; Czarnecka, Danuta; Januszewicz, Andrzej; Witkowski, Adam

2016-01-01

The assessment of percutaneous renal sympathetic denervation (RDN) efficacy in patients with true-resistant hypertension (true-RH) in a newly established net of Polish centres (RDN-POL Registry). Forty-four patients with true-RH (23 men, mean age 52.3 years) with daytime systolic blood pressure (SBP) in ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) ≥ 135 mm Hg, on ≥ three antihypertensive agents, including diuretic, underwent RDN and completed 12-month follow-up. Mean reductions of office SBP/diastolic blood pressure were -23.8/-10.0, -12.5/-4.6, and -12.6/-6.1 mm Hg at 3, 6, and 12 months, respectively (all significant except diastolic at 6 months). Diabetes was the only predictor of office SBP reduction at 6 months (OR 9.6, 95% CI 1.4-66.5, p < 0.05). Mean 24-h SBP change was -8.3 mm Hg at 6 months and -4.6 mm Hg at 12 months. Increased 2 h-glucose in oral glucose tolerance test was the only predictor of 24-h SBP reduction at 6 months (OR 1.24 for 10 mg/dL glucose increase, 95% CI 1.04-1.48, p < 0.05). At 12 months, 24-h SBP change predictors were: baseline office SBP (OR 4.93 for 10 mm Hg SBP increment, 95% CI 1.01-24.1, p < 0.05) and 2 h-glucose (OR 1.47, 95% CI 1.08-2.00, p < 0.05). In ABPM responders, significant reduction of 2 h glucose was found as compared to the non-responders (-45.8 vs. -7.7 mg/dL, p < 0.005). The RDN-POL Registry demonstrated moderate blood pressure decrease after RDN. The predictors of blood pressure reduction were diabetes, 2 h-glucose, and baseline office SBP. Analysis of ABPM responders indicates a probable positive impact of RDN on glycaemic control.

Negative and positive affect are independently associated with patient-reported health status following percutaneous coronary intervention.

PubMed

Versteeg, Henneke; Pedersen, Susanne S; Erdman, Ruud A M; van Nierop, Josephine W I; de Jaegere, Peter; van Domburg, Ron T

2009-10-01

We examined the association between negative and positive affect and 12-month health status in patients treated with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with drug-eluting stents. Consecutive PCI patients (n = 562) completed the Global Mood Scale at baseline to assess affect and the EuroQoL-5D (EQ-5D) at baseline and 12-month follow-up to assess health status. Negative affect [F(1, 522) = 17.14, P < .001] and positive affect [F(1, 522) = 5.11, P = .02] at baseline were independent associates of overall health status at 12-month follow-up, adjusting for demographic and clinical factors. Moreover, there was a significant interaction for negative by positive affect [F(1, 522) = 6.11, P = .01]. In domain-specific analyses, high negative affect was associated with problems in mobility, self-care, usual activities, pain/discomfort, and anxiety/depression with the risk being two to fivefold. Low positive affect was only associated with problems in self-care (OR: 8.14; 95% CI: 1.85-35.9; P = .006) and usual activities (OR: 1.87; 95% CI: 1.17-3.00; P = .009). Baseline negative and positive affect contribute independently to patient-reported health status 12 months post PCI. Positive affect moderated the detrimental effects of negative affect on overall health status. Enhancing positive affect might be an important target to improve patient-centered outcomes in coronary artery disease.

Outcomes, health status, and medical resource utilization after bariatric surgery.

PubMed

Gorman, R Scott; Stern, Deborah L; Inclan, Delia V; Presutti, R John; Swain, James M; Hentz, Joseph G

2006-01-01

Surgical results, economic consequences, and shortterm health of obese patients were evaluated before and after bariatric surgery. Of 35 patients in Mayo Health Plan Arizona eligible for bariatric surgery and scheduled for gastric restriction with Roux-en-Y gastrojejunostomy, 22 (7 men, 15 women) completed pre- and postoperative (6- and 12-mo) short form (SF)-12 Health Surveys. Nineteen patients had open bariatric procedures and 3 had laparoscopic procedures. Comorbid conditions, hospital course, weight loss, and complications were examined. Health care utilization (actual dollars paid by plan) for the preceding year and at 1- and 2-yr follow-up were compared. Major comorbid conditions included diabetes mellitus or impaired fasting glucose, hyperlipidemia, sleep apnea, and hypertension. Mean length of hospital stay was 4.8 d after open procedures and 2 d after laparoscopic procedures. No serious operative or postoperative complications occurred. From a baseline average body mass index (BMI) of 51.9, the 6- and 12-mo BMI averages were 39.6 (23.7% decrease) and 35.3 (32% decrease), respectively. Both physical and mental status improved. From baseline, physical health changed 18 and 21.2 points at 6 and 12 mo, respectively (p < 0.001), and mental health changed 9.3 points at each interval (p =0.003). Each postoperative year, resource utilization decreased (mean= $1300 per patient). Our findings of good surgical outcomes, significant weight loss, improved health status, and potential financial savings in this small sample may help patients, insurers, and self-funded employer groups evaluate the appropriateness of bariatric procedures.

Naltrexone/Bupropion Combination Therapy in Overweight or Obese Patients With Major Depressive Disorder: Results of a Pilot Study

PubMed Central

Guerdjikova, Anna I.; Kim, Dennis D.; Burns, Colleen; Harris-Collazo, Raúl; Landbloom, Ronald; Dunayevich, Eduardo

2013-01-01

Objective: To evaluate the effect of 32-mg/d naltrexone sustained release and 360-mg/d bupropion sustained release (NB32) in overweight and obese patients with major depressive disorder (MDD). Method: Twenty-five female patients with a DSM-IV diagnosis of MDD, an Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology—Self-Report score > 26, and a body mass index ≥ 27 and ≤ 43 kg/m2 received up to 24 weeks of open-label treatment with NB32 with dietary and behavioral counseling (data collection: March 2008–July 2009). The primary endpoint was change from baseline in the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) total score at 12 weeks; secondary endpoints included MADRS total score at week 24, change in weight, and Clinical Global Impressions–Improvement scale responder status (CGI-I score ≤ 2) at weeks 12 and 24 (modified intent-to-treat [mITT]: patients with ≥ 1 postbaseline MADRS total score on study drug; N = 23). Results: MADRS scores showed significant reductions at weeks 12 and 24 (mITT–last observation carried forward [LOCF]: –13.1 ± 7.1 and –15.3 ± 8.1, respectively, P < .001 vs baseline for all). Mean ± SD weight loss was –4.0% ± 4.6% (mITT-LOCF) and –6.1% ± 4.7% (observed cases) at week 12 and –5.3% ± 6.5% (mITT-LOCF) and –9.2% ± 6.2% (observed cases) at week 24 (P < .001 vs baseline for all). By week 24, 95% of patients (mITT-LOCF) were responders (CGI-I score ≤ 2) and 70% were in remission (CGI-I score = 1). The safety/tolerability profile of NB32 was consistent with its individual components; the most common adverse events were nausea, constipation, headache, and insomnia, with no serious adverse events attributed to NB32. Conclusion: Twenty-four weeks of open-label NB32 therapy with dietary and behavioral counseling was associated with improvement in depressive symptoms and reduced body weight in overweight/obese women with MDD. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00624858 PMID:24171147

The effect of walking and vitamin B supplementation on quality of life in community-dwelling adults with mild cognitive impairment: a randomized, controlled trial

PubMed Central

van Uffelen, Jannique G. Z.; Hopman-Rock, Marijke; van Mechelen, Willem

2007-01-01

Objectives To examine the effect of walking and vitamin B supplementation on quality-of-life (QoL) in community-dwelling adults with mild cognitive impairment. Methods One year, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Participants were randomized to: (1) twice-weekly, group-based, moderate-intensity walking program (n = 77) or a light-intensity placebo activity program (n = 75); and (2) daily vitamin B pills containing 5 mg folic acid, 0.4 mg B12, 50 mg B6 (n = 78) or placebo pills (n = 74). QoL was measured at baseline, after six and 12 months using the population-specific Dementia Quality-of-Life (D-QoL) to assess overall QoL and the generic Short-Form 12 mental and physical component scales (SF12-MCS and SF12-PCS) to assess health-related QoL. Results Baseline levels of QoL were relatively high. Modified intention-to-treat analyses revealed no positive main intervention effect of walking or vitamin supplementation. In both men and women, ratings of D-QoL-belonging and D-QoL-positive affect subscales improved with 0.003 (P = 0.04) and 0.002 points (P = 0.06) with each percent increase in attendance to the walking program. Only in men, SF12-MCS increased with 0.03 points with each percent increase in attendance (P = 0.08). Conclusion Several small but significant improvements in QoL were observed with increasing attendance to the walking program. No effect of vitamin B supplementation was observed. Trial Registration International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number Register, 19227688, http://www.controlled-trials.com/isrctn/. PMID:17616840

Is more lordosis associated with improved outcomes in cervical laminectomy and fusion when baseline alignment is lordotic?

PubMed

Sielatycki, John A; Armaghani, Sheyan; Silverberg, Arnold; McGirt, Matthew J; Devin, Clinton J; O'Neill, Kevin

2016-08-01

In cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM), cervical sagittal alignment (CSA) is associated with disease severity. Increased kyphosis and C2-C7 sagittal vertical axis (SVA) correlate with worse myelopathy and poor outcomes. However, when alignment is lordotic, it is unknown whether these associations persist. The study aimed to investigate the associations between CSA parameters and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) following posterior decompression and fusion for CSM when baseline lordosis is maintained. This is an analysis of a prospective surgical cohort at a single academic institution. The sample includes adult patients undergoing primary cervical laminectomy and fusion for CSM over a 3-year period. The PROs included EuroQol-5D, Short-Form-12 (SF-12) physical composite (PCS) and mental composite scales (MCS), Neck Disability Index, and the modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association scores. Radiographic CSA parameters measured included C1-C2 Cobb, C2-C7 Cobb, C1-C7 Cobb, C2-C7 SVA, C1-C7 SVA, and T1 slope. The PROs were recorded at baseline and at 3 and 12 months postoperatively. The CSA parameters were measured on standing radiographs in the neutral position at baseline and 3 months. Wilcoxon rank test was used to test for changes in PROs and CSA parameters, and Pearson correlation coefficients were calculated for CSA parameters and PROs preoperatively and at 12 months. No external sources of funding were used for this work. There were 45 patients included with an average age of 63 years who underwent posterior decompression and fusion of 3.7±1.3 levels. Significant improvements were found in all PROs except SF-12 MCS (p=.06). Small but statistically significant changes were found in C2-C7 Cobb (mean change: +3.6°; p=.03) and C2-C7 SVA (mean change: +3 mm; p=.01). At baseline, only C2-C7 SVA associated with worse SF-12 PCS scores (r=-0.34, p=.02). Postoperatively, there were no associations found between PROs and any CSA parameters. Similarly, no CSA parameters were associated with changes in PROs. Although creating more lordosis and decreasing SVA are associated with improved myelopathy and outcomes in patients with kyphosis, our study did not find such associationsin patients with lordosis undergoing posterior laminectomy and fusion for CSM. This suggests that any amount of lordosis may be sufficient. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Symptoms of anxiety and depression are frequent in patients with acute hepatitis C and are not associated with disease severity.

PubMed

Deterding, Katja; Grüner, Norbert; Buggisch, Peter; Galle, Peter R; Spengler, Ulrich; Hinrichsen, Holger; Berg, Thomas; Potthoff, Andrej; Grohennig, Anika; Koch, Armin; Diepolder, Helmut; Lüth, Stefan; Feyerabend, Sandra; Jung, Maria C; Rogalska-Taranta, Magdalena; Schlaphoff, Verena; Cornberg, Markus; Manns, Michael P; Wedemeyer, Heiner; Wiegand, Johannes

2016-02-01

Neuropsychiatric symptoms of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and during peginterferon α therapy have been investigated in the chronic stage of the infection, but have not been described during the acute phase of the disease so far. We therefore evaluated anxiety and depression in patients with acute hepatitis C by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) within a clinical trial. Data were analysed from the German Hep-Net Acute HCV-III study. Anxiety and depression were characterized by an anxiety (HADS-A) and a depression subscale (HADS-D). More than eight points in each subscale were considered clinically relevant. Data were prospectively collected at baseline, end of treatment and at the end of the study. At baseline, a HADS-A above eight points was observed significantly more frequently than a HADS-D above eight points [n=23/103 (22%) vs. n=12/103 (12%); P=0.041].A pathological HADS-A or HADS-D score did not correlate with age, sex, IL28B genotype, the probable mode of infection, HCV genotype or severity of disease as investigated by alanine aminotransferase and bilirubin levels.Antiviral therapy did not influence anxiety as 12/50 (24%) of patients had HADS-A above 8 at the end of therapy. The proportion of patients with HADS-D above eight points increased from 12% at baseline to 24% (n=12/50) at the end of therapy (P=0.06). HADS results were not associated with lost to follow-up or sustained virological response rates. HADS data in acute HCV infection indicate that anxiety and depression do not correlate with severity of the disease, mode of acquisition, lost to follow-up and sustained virological response rates.

Tezacaftor/Ivacaftor in Subjects with Cystic Fibrosis and F508del/F508del-CFTR or F508del/G551D-CFTR.

PubMed

Donaldson, Scott H; Pilewski, Joseph M; Griese, Matthias; Cooke, Jon; Viswanathan, Lakshmi; Tullis, Elizabeth; Davies, Jane C; Lekstrom-Himes, Julie A; Wang, Linda T

2018-01-15

Tezacaftor (formerly VX-661) is an investigational small molecule that improves processing and trafficking of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) in vitro, and improves CFTR function alone and in combination with ivacaftor. To evaluate the safety and efficacy of tezacaftor monotherapy and of tezacaftor/ivacaftor combination therapy in subjects with cystic fibrosis homozygous for F508del or compound heterozygous for F508del and G551D. This was a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, multicenter, phase 2 study (NCT01531673). Subjects homozygous for F508del received tezacaftor (10 to 150 mg) every day alone or in combination with ivacaftor (150 mg every 12 h) in a dose escalation phase, as well as in a dosage regimen testing phase. Subjects compound heterozygous for F508del and G551D, taking physician-prescribed ivacaftor, received tezacaftor (100 mg every day). Primary endpoints were safety through Day 56 and change in sweat chloride from baseline through Day 28. Secondary endpoints included change in percent predicted FEV 1 (ppFEV 1 ) from baseline through Day 28 and pharmacokinetics. The incidence of adverse events was similar across treatment arms. Tezacaftor (100 mg every day)/ivacaftor (150 mg every 12 h) resulted in a 6.04 mmol/L decrease in sweat chloride and 3.75 percentage point increase in ppFEV 1 in subjects homozygous for F508del, and a 7.02 mmol/L decrease in sweat chloride and 4.60 percentage point increase in ppFEV 1 in subjects compound heterozygous for F508del and G551D from baseline through Day 28 (P < 0.05 for all). These results support continued clinical development of tezacaftor (100 mg every day) in combination with ivacaftor (150 mg every 12 h) in subjects with cystic fibrosis. Clinical trial registered with www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT01531673).

Effect of micronutrient supplement on health and nutritional status of schoolchildren: biochemical status.

PubMed

Sivakumar, Battiprolu; Nair, Krishnapillai Madhavan; Sreeramulu, Dande; Suryanarayana, Palla; Ravinder, Punjal; Shatrugna, Veena; Kumar, Prattipati Ajey; Raghunath, Manchala; Rao, Varaganti Vikas; Balakrishna, Nagalla; Kumar, Putcha Uday; Raghuramulu, Namala

2006-01-01

We assessed the effect of a daily intake of a micronutrient-fortified beverage for 14 mo on indicators of biochemical status of important micronutrients in schoolchildren. A double-blind, placebo-controlled, matched-pair, cluster, randomization study design was used. Biochemical indicators of micronutrient status were evaluated at baseline and at the end of 14 mo on a subsample in nine matched pairs. Prevalence (percentage) of subclinical deficiency, mean, and mean increments of each indicator were compared between supplemented and placebo groups. Extent of inadequacy at baseline was more or less 100% for folic acid, 65% for vitamins B2 and B6, and 55% for vitamins C and A. Prevalence of anemia among subjects was 55%, with inadequacy of vitamin B12 being 40% and that of vitamin D being 30%. No subject had inadequacy of iodine based on urinary iodine. Supplementation of a micronutrient-enriched beverage for 14 mo significantly improved the status of many of the nutrients. The effect was significant with respect to vitamins A, B2, and B12, folic acid, vitamin D, parathyroid hormone, and thyroid-stimulating hormone in children who received the supplement compared with those who received only placebo. Hemoglobin status improved only in children who had anemia in the supplemented group. Prevalence of multiple subclinical micronutrient deficiencies are high in middle-income Indian school children. Daily consumption of a micronutrient-enriched beverage had positive effects that were confined to those nutrients that were inadequate at baseline.

Prevalence and predictors of depression and well-being after hysterectomy: An observational study.

PubMed

Theunissen, Maurice; Peters, Madelon L; Schepers, Jan; Schoot, Dick C; Gramke, Hans-Fritz; Marcus, Marco A

2017-10-01

To assess risk and predictive factors for depression and well-being, 3 and 12 months after elective hysterectomy. Secondary objectives were to assess the incidence of depression, level of well-being, and feelings of femininity. A prospective multicenter cohort study was performed among 419 women, undergoing hysterectomy for benign indication. Data were collected in the week prior to surgery, and in the per- and postoperative period up to the fourth postoperative day and 3 and 12 months after surgery. Sociodemographic variables, baseline health status, psychosocial predictors, and surgery data were assessed. Outcome measures were Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression scale (CES-D, range 0-60), the 12-item well-being questionnaire energy and positive well-being subscales (range 0-12), and feelings of femininity. Predictor analyses were performed using linear mixed model analyses. Levels of depression, energy, and positive well-being after hysterectomy were predicted by their corresponding baseline levels (estimate 0.62 p<0.001, 0.39 p<0.001, 0.37 p<0.001, respectively) and baseline pain (0.31 p=0.003, -0.09 p=0.026, -0.10 p=0.008). Postoperative infection reported at 12 months affected CES-D and energy level. Several other gynaecological, psychosocial, or perioperative factors were also predictive for one of the outcomes. Prevalence of depression at baseline, 3 and 12 months was 24%, 19%, and 21%, respectively. In general, well-being scores were slightly higher 3 and 12 months after hysterectomy than at baseline. Feelings of femininity were not negatively affected in 92% of the patients. Preoperative psychosocial status, perioperative pain, and postoperative infection were found as predictors of psychological outcome after hysterectomy. In the majority of patients we observed small but significant improvements with regard to postoperative depression and well-being, while feelings of femininity were unaffected. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Associations of Dairy Intake with Incident Prediabetes or Diabetes in Middle-Aged Adults Vary by Both Dairy Type and Glycemic Status.

PubMed

Hruby, Adela; Ma, Jiantao; Rogers, Gail; Meigs, James B; Jacques, Paul F

2017-09-01

Background: Inconsistent evidence describes the association between dietary intake of dairy and milk-based products and type 2 diabetes (T2D) risk. Objective: Our objective was to assess associations between consumption of milk-based products, incident prediabetes, and progression to T2D in the Framingham Heart Study Offspring Cohort. Methods: Total dairy and milk-based product consumption was assessed by ≤4 food-frequency questionnaires across a mean of 12 y of follow-up in 2809 participants [mean ± SD age: 54.0 ± 9.7 y; body mass index (in kg/m 2 ): 27.1 ± 4.7; 54% female]. Prediabetes was defined as the first occurrence of fasting plasma glucose ≥5.6 to <7.0 mmol/L (≥100 to <126 mg/dL), and T2D was defined as the first occurrence of fasting plasma glucose ≥7.0 mmol/L (≥126 mg/dL) or diabetes treatment. Proportional hazards models were used to estimate the risk of incident outcomes relative to dairy product intake in subsets of the cohort who were at risk of developing the outcomes. Spline regressions were used to examine potential nonlinear relations. Results: Of 1867 participants free of prediabetes at baseline, 902 (48%) developed prediabetes. Total, low-fat, and high-fat dairy consumptions were associated with a 39%, 32%, and 25% lower risk of incident prediabetes, respectively, in the highest compared with the lowest intakes (≥14 compared with <4 servings/wk). Total, low-fat and skim milk, whole-milk, and yogurt intakes were associated nonlinearly with incident prediabetes; moderate intake was associated with the greatest relative risk reduction. Neither cheese nor cream and butter was associated with prediabetes. Of 925 participants with prediabetes at baseline, 196 (21%) developed T2D. Only high-fat dairy and cheese showed evidence of dose-response, inverse associations with incident T2D, with 70% and 63% lower risk, respectively, of incident T2D between the highest and lowest intake categories (≥14 compared with <1 serving/wk for high-fat dairy, ≥4 compared with <1 serving/wk for cheese). Conclusion: Associations of dairy with incident prediabetes or diabetes varied both by dairy product and type and by baseline glycemic status in this middle-aged US population. Baseline glycemic status may partially underlie prior equivocal evidence regarding the role of dairy intake in diabetes. © 2017 American Society for Nutrition.

The relationship between alkaline phosphatase and bone alkaline phosphatase activity and the growth hormone/insulin-like growth factor-1 axis and vitamin D status in children with growth hormone deficiency.

PubMed

Witkowska-Sędek, Ewelina; Stelmaszczyk-Emmel, Anna; Majcher, Anna; Demkow, Urszula; Pyrżak, Beata

2018-04-13

The relationships between bone turnover, the growth hormone/insulin-like growth factor-1 (GH/IGF-1) axis and vitamin D are complex, but still not fully explained. The GH/IGF-1 axis and vitamin D can mutually modulate each other's metabolism and influence the activation of cell proliferation, maturation, and mineralization as well as bone resorption. The aim of this study was to evaluate the reciprocal associations between bone formation markers [alkaline phosphatase (ALP), bone alkaline phosphatase (BALP)], the GH/IGF-1 axis and 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] in children with growth hormone deficiency at baseline and during recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) therapy. ALP, BALP, 25(OH)D and IGF-1 levels were evaluated in 53 patients included in this prospective three-year study. ALP, BALP and IGF-1 increased during rhGH therapy. Baseline ALP activity correlated positively with baseline height velocity (HV). ALP and BALP activity at 12 months correlated positively with HV in the first year of therapy. We found positive correlations between ALP and IGF-1 at baseline and during the first year of therapy, between BALP activity at 12 months and rhGH dose in the first year of therapy, and between doses of cholecalciferol in the first year of rhGH therapy and early changes in BALP activity during rhGH therapy. Our results indicate that vitamin D supplementation enhances the effect of rhGH on bone formation process, which could improve the effects of rhGH therapy. ALP and BALP activity are useful in the early prediction of the effects of rhGH therapy, but their utility as long-term predictors seemed insufficient.

Two-dimensional aerodynamic characteristics of several polygon-shaped cross-sectional models applicable to helicopter fuselages

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kelley, Henry L.; Crowell, Cynthia A.; Wilson, John C.

1992-01-01

A wind-tunnel investigation was conducted to determine 2-D aerodynamic characteristics of nine polygon-shaped models applicable to helicopter fuselages. The models varied from 1/2 to 1/5 scale and were nominally triangular, diamond, and rectangular in shape. Side force and normal force were obtained at increments of angle of flow incidence from -45 to 90 degrees. The data were compared with results from a baseline UH-60 tail-boom cross-section model. The results indicate that the overall shapes of the plots of normal force and side force were similar to the characteristic shape of the baseline data; however, there were important differences in magnitude. At a flow incidence of 0 degrees, larger values of normal force for the polygon models indicate an increase in fuselage down load of 1 to 2.5 percent of main-rotor thrust compared with the baseline value. Also, potential was indicated among some of the configurations to produce high fuselage side forces and yawing moments compared with the baseline model.

Effects of the Chinese herbal formula "Zuojin Pill" on the pharmacokinetics of dextromethorphan in healthy Chinese volunteers with CYP2D6*10 genotype.

PubMed

Qiu, Furong; Liu, Songcan; Miao, Ping; Zeng, Jin; Zhu, Leilei; Zhao, TongFang; Ye, Yujie; Jiang, Jian

2016-06-01

Zuojin Pill has been shown to inhibit the cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2D6 isoenzyme in vitro. In Chinese individuals, CYP 2D6*10 is the most common allele with reduced enzyme activity. In this study, we investigated the pharmacokinetic interaction between Zuojin Pill and the sensitive CYP2D6 probe dextromethorphan in healthy Chinese volunteers with CYP2D6*10 genotype. A pharmacokinetics interaction study was carried out in three groups with CYP2D6*1/*1 (n = 6), CYP2D6*1/*10 (n = 6), and CYP2D6*10/*10 (n = 6) genotypes. Each participant received a single oral dose of dextromethorphan (15 mg) followed by Zuojin Pill (3 g twice daily) for 7 days, and received 3 g Zuojin Pill with 15 mg dextromethorphan in the last day. Blood samples (0-24 h) and urine samples (0-12 h) were collected at baseline and after the administration of Zuojin Pill, and the samples' concentration of dextromethorphan and its main metabolite dextrorphan was determined. Compared to baseline values, co-administration of Zuojin Pill (3 g twice daily) for 7 days increased the AUC0-24 of dextromethorphan [mean (90 % CI)] by 3.00-fold (2.49∼3.61) and 1.71-fold (1.42∼2.06), and decreased oral clearance(CL/F) by 0.27-fold (0.2-0.40) and 0.57-fold (0.48-0.67) in the participants with CYP2D6*1/*1 and CYP2D6*1/*10 genotypes, respectively. In contrast, no significant change was observed in these pharmacokinetic parameters of the participants with CYP2D6*10/*10 genotype. These data demonstrated that administration of Zuojin Pill inhibited moderately CYP2D6-mediated metabolism of dextromethorphan in healthy volunteers. The inhibitory influence of CYP2D6 was greater in CYP2D6*1/*1 and CYP2D6*1/*10 groups than CYP2D6 *10/*10 group.

Sensor-augmented pump therapy in very young children with type 1 diabetes: an efficacy and feasibility observational study.

PubMed

Frontino, Giulio; Bonfanti, Riccardo; Scaramuzza, Andrea; Rabbone, Ivana; Meschi, Franco; Rigamonti, Andrea; Battaglino, Roseila; Favalli, Valeria; Bonura, Clara; Sicignano, Sabrina; Gioia, Elisa; Zuccotti, Gian Vincenzo; Cerutti, Franco; Chiumello, Giuseppe

2012-09-01

Efficacy and feasibility of sensor-augmented pump (SAP) therapy were evaluated in very young children with type 1 diabetes (T1D). SAP (Dexcom [San Diego, CA] Seven Plus™ usage combined with insulin pump) therapy was retrospectively evaluated in 28 children (15 boys) younger than 7 years (mean age, 5.8 ± 1.2 years; range, 3-7 years), with T1D. Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) was evaluated at baseline and at the end of the study, as were efficacy and feasibility of the system, using a rating scale (with 3 being the most positive). SAP has been used for at least 6 months by 85% of patients, with an overall good satisfaction (92%). The greatest perceived benefit was the reduced fear of hypoglycemia (score of 3, 81%). HbA1c significantly improved only in patients with baseline HbA1c >7.5% (P = 0.026). SAP therapy is effective and feasible in preschool children with T1D. In patients with high HbA1c at baseline it provide a 0.9% decrease, sustained for at least 6 months.

Advanced Subsonic Technology (AST) 22-Inch Low Noise Research Fan Rig Preliminary Design of ADP-Type Fan 3

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jeracki, Robert J. (Technical Monitor); Topol, David A.; Ingram, Clint L.; Larkin, Michael J.; Roche, Charles H.; Thulin, Robert D.

2004-01-01

This report presents results of the work completed on the preliminary design of Fan 3 of NASA s 22-inch Fan Low Noise Research project. Fan 3 was intended to build on the experience gained from Fans 1 and 2 by demonstrating noise reduction technology that surpasses 1992 levels by 6 dB. The work was performed as part of NASA s Advanced Subsonic Technology (AST) program. Work on this task was conducted in the areas of CFD code validation, acoustic prediction and validation, rotor parametric studies, and fan exit guide vane (FEGV) studies up to the time when a NASA decision was made to cancel the design, fabrication and testing phases of the work. The scope of the program changed accordingly to concentrate on two subtasks: (1) Rig data analysis and CFD code validation and (2) Fan and FEGV optimization studies. The results of the CFD code validation work showed that this tool predicts 3D flowfield features well from the blade trailing edge to about a chord downstream. The CFD tool loses accuracy as the distance from the trailing edge increases beyond a blade chord. The comparisons of noise predictions to rig test data showed that both the tone noise tool and the broadband noise tool demonstrated reasonable agreement with the data to the degree that these tools can reliably be used for design work. The section on rig airflow and inlet separation analysis describes the method used to determine total fan airflow, shows the good agreement of predicted boundary layer profiles to measured profiles, and shows separation angles of attack ranging from 29.5 to 27deg for the range of airflows tested. The results of the rotor parametric studies were significant in leading to the decision not to pursue a new rotor design for Fan 3 and resulted in recommendations to concentrate efforts on FEGV stator designs. The ensuing parametric study on FEGV designs showed the potential for 8 to 10 EPNdB noise reduction relative to the baseline.

Efficacy and Safety of Alirocumab in Individuals with Diabetes Mellitus: Pooled Analyses from Five Placebo-Controlled Phase 3 Studies.

PubMed

Ginsberg, Henry N; Farnier, Michel; Robinson, Jennifer G; Cannon, Christopher P; Sattar, Naveed; Baccara-Dinet, Marie T; Letierce, Alexia; Bujas-Bobanovic, Maja; Louie, Michael J; Colhoun, Helen M

2018-05-19

Diabetes mellitus (DM) carries an elevated risk for cardiovascular disease. Here, we assessed alirocumab efficacy and safety in people with/without DM from five placebo-controlled phase 3 studies. Data from up to 78 weeks were analyzed in individuals on maximally tolerated background statin. In three studies, alirocumab 75 mg every 2 weeks (Q2W) was increased to 150 mg Q2W at week 12 if week 8 low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) was ≥ 70 mg/dL; two studies used alirocumab 150 mg Q2W throughout. The primary endpoint was percentage change in LDL-C from baseline to week 24. In the alirocumab 150 mg pool (n = 2416), baseline LDL-C levels were 117.4 mg/dL (DM) and 130.6 mg/dL (without DM), and in the 75/150 mg pool (n = 1043) 112.8 mg/dL (DM) and 133.0 mg/dL (without DM). In the 150 mg Q2W group, week 24 LDL-C reductions from baseline were observed in persons with DM (- 59.9%; placebo, - 1.4%) and without DM (- 60.6%; placebo, + 1.5%); 77.7% (DM) and 76.8% (without DM) of subjects achieved LDL-C < 70 mg/dL. In the alirocumab 75/150 mg group, 26% (DM) and 36% (without DM) of subjects received dose increase. In this group, week 24 LDL-C levels changed from baseline by - 43.8% (DM; placebo, + 0.3%) and - 49.7% (without DM; placebo, + 5.1%); LDL-C < 70 mg/dL was achieved by 68.3% and 65.8% of individuals, respectively. At week 24, alirocumab was also associated with improved levels of other lipids. Adverse event rates were generally comparable in all groups (79.8-82.0%). Regardless of DM status, alirocumab significantly reduced LDL-C levels; safety was generally similar. Sanofi and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Plain language summary available for this article.

Association of Tryptophan Metabolites with Incident Type 2 Diabetes in the PREDIMED Trial: A Case-Cohort Study.

PubMed

Yu, Edward; Papandreou, Christopher; Ruiz-Canela, Miguel; Guasch-Ferre, Marta; Clish, Clary B; Dennis, Courtney; Liang, Liming; Corella, Dolores; Fitó, Montserrat; Razquin, Cristina; Lapetra, José; Estruch, Ramón; Ros, Emilio; Cofán, Montserrat; Arós, Fernando; Toledo, Estefania; Serra-Majem, Lluis; Sorlí, José V; Hu, Frank B; Martinez-Gonzalez, Miguel A; Salas-Salvado, Jordi

2018-06-08

Metabolites of the tryptophan-kynurenine pathway (i.e., tryptophan, kynurenine, kynurenic acid, quinolinic acid, 3-hydroxyanthranilic) may be associated with diabetes development. Using a case-cohort design nested in the Prevención con Dieta Mediterránea (PREDIMED) study, we studied the associations of baseline and 1-year changes of these metabolites with incident type 2 diabetes (T2D). Plasma metabolite concentrations were quantified via LC-MS for n = 641 in a randomly selected subcohort and 251 incident cases diagnosed during 3.8 years of median follow-up. Weighted Cox models adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, and other T2D risk factors were used. Contrary to our hypothesis, baseline tryptophan was associated with higher risk of incident T2D (hazard ratio = 1.29; 95% CI, 1.04-1.61 per SD). Positive changes in quinolinic acid from baseline to 1 year were associated with a higher risk of T2D (hazard ratio = 1.39; 95% CI, 1.09-1.77 per SD). Baseline tryptophan and kynurenic acid were directly associated with changes in homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) from baseline to 1 year. Concurrent changes in kynurenine, quinolinic acid, 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid, and kynurenine/tryptophan ratio were associated with baseline-to-1-year changes in HOMA-IR. Baseline tryptophan and 1-year increases in quinolinic acid were positively associated with incident T2D. Baseline and 1-year changes in tryptophan metabolites predicted changes in HOMA-IR. © 2018 American Association for Clinical Chemistry.

Comparative effectiveness of a portion-controlled meal replacement program for weight loss in adults with and without diabetes/high blood sugar

PubMed Central

Coleman, C D; Kiel, J R; Mitola, A H; Arterburn, L M

2017-01-01

Background: Individuals with type 2 diabetes (DM2) may be less successful at achieving therapeutic weight loss than their counterparts without diabetes. This study compares weight loss in a cohort of adults with DM2 or high blood sugar (D/HBS) to a cohort of adults without D/HBS. All were overweight/obese and following a reduced or low-calorie commercial weight-loss program incorporating meal replacements (MRs) and one-on-one behavioral support. Subjects/Methods: Demographic, weight, body composition, anthropometric, pulse and blood pressure data were collected as part of systematic retrospective chart review studies. Differences between cohorts by D/HBS status were analyzed using Mann–Whitney U-tests and mixed model regression. Results: A total of 816 charts were included (125 with self-reported D/HBS). The cohort with D/HBS had more males (40.8 vs 25.6%), higher BMI (39.0 vs 36.3 kg m−2) and was older (56 vs 48 years). Among clients continuing on program, the cohorts with and without D/HBS lost, on average, 5.6 vs 5.8 kg (NS) (5.0 vs 5.6% P=0.005) of baseline weight at 4 weeks, 11.0 vs 11.6 kg (NS) (9.9 vs 11.1% P=0.027) at 12 weeks and 16.3 vs 17.1 kg (13.9 vs 15.7% NS) at 24 weeks, respectively. In a mixed model regression controlling for baseline weight, gender and meal plan, and an intention-to-treat analysis, there was no significant difference in weight loss between the cohorts at any time point. Over 70% in both cohorts lost ⩾5% of their baseline weight by the final visit on their originally assigned meal plan. Both cohorts had significant reductions from baseline in body fat, blood pressure, pulse and abdominal circumference. Conclusion: Adults who were overweight/obese and with D/HBS following a commercial weight-loss program incorporating MRs and one-on-one behavioral support achieved therapeutic weight loss. The program was equally effective for weight loss and reductions in cardiometabolic risk factors among adults with and without D/HBS. PMID:28692020

The Key to Life Nutrition Program: results from a community-based dietary sodium reduction trial

PubMed Central

Robare, Joseph F; Milas, N Carole; Bayles, Constance M; Williams, Kathy; Newman, Anne B; Lovalekar, Mita T; Boudreau, Robert; McTigue, Kathleen; Albert, Steven M; Kuller, Lewis H

2016-01-01

Objective Evaluation of a dietary Na reduction trial in a community setting. Design Community-based randomized trial. Ten-week nutrition intervention activities focused on lifestyle modification to decrease dietary Na intake, under the supervision of a registered dietitian. Twenty-four hour urine specimens were collected at baseline and follow-up visits to determine 24 h urinary Na excretion. Setting The University of Pittsburgh Center for Healthy Aging, Key to Life Nutrition Program. Subjects Hypertensive adults at least 65 years of age. Results Mean age of participants was 75 years. Twenty-four hour mean urinary Na excretion at baseline was 3174 mg/d. This reduced to 2944 mg/d (P = 0·30) and 2875 mg/d (P ≤ 0·03) at 6-and 12-month follow-ups, respectively. In a sub-sample (urine volume of ≥ 1000 ml, baseline to 12 months), mean urinary Na excretion decreased from 3220 mg/d to 2875 mg/d (P ≤ 0·02). Conclusions Significant reductions in mean 24 h urinary Na were reported, but results fell short of the recommended guidelines of 1500 mg/d for at-risk individuals. Our results reiterate the difficulty in implementing these guidelines in community-based programmes. More aggressive public health efforts, food industry support and health policy changes are needed to decrease Na levels in older adults to the recommended guidelines. PMID:19781124

Muscle strength gains during resistance exercise training are attenuated with soy compared with dairy or usual protein intake in older adults: A randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Thomson, Rebecca L; Brinkworth, Grant D; Noakes, Manny; Buckley, Jonathan D

2016-02-01

Maintenance of muscle mass and strength into older age is critical to maintain health. The aim was to determine whether increased dairy or soy protein intake combined with resistance training enhanced strength gains in older adults. 179 healthy older adults (age 61.5 ± 7.4 yrs, BMI 27.6 ± 3.6 kg/m(2)) performed resistance training three times per week for 12 weeks and were randomized to one of three eucaloric dietary treatments which delivered >20 g of protein at each main meal or immediately after resistance training: high dairy protein (HP-D, >1.2 g of protein/kg body weight/d; ∼27 g/d dairy protein); high soy protein (HP-S, >1.2 g of protein/kg body weight/d; ∼27 g/d soy protein); usual protein intake (UP, <1.2 g of protein/kg body weight/d). Muscle strength, body composition, physical function and quality of life were assessed at baseline and 12 weeks. Treatments effects were analyzed using two-way ANOVA. 83 participants completed the intervention per protocol (HP-D = 34, HP-S = 26, UP = 23). Protein intake was higher in HP-D and HP-S compared with UP (HP-D 1.41 ± 0.14 g/kg/d, HP-S 1.42 ± 0.61 g/kg/d, UP 1.10 ± 0.10 g/kg/d; P < 0.001 treatment effect). Strength increased less in HP-S compared with HP-D and UP (HP-D 92.1 ± 40.8%, HP-S 63.0 ± 23.8%,UP 92.3 ± 35.4%; P = 0.002 treatment effect). Lean mass, physical function and mental health scores increased and fat mass decreased (P ≤ 0.006), with no treatment effect (P > 0.06). Increased soy protein intake attenuated gains in muscle strength during resistance training in older adults compared with increased intake of dairy protein or usual protein intake. ACTRN12612000177853 www.anzctr.org.au. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd and European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism. All rights reserved.

Department of Defense Base Structure Report: Fiscal Year 2008 Baseline (A Summary of DoD’s Real Property Inventory)

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-01-01

Robert L Poxon USARC Southfield 6 93,477 0 0 2626 23.8 631 11 2Army Reserve 0 0 Alpena County Regional Airport Alpena 102 461,849 0 0 695668 250.7 121 0...0 8,1094,745 2,677.1 5,659 2,051 0Massachusetts Total: 12 101,608 Michigan Alpena County Regional Airport Alpena 102 461,849 0 0 695668 250.7 121 0

Bone mineral density during pregnancy in women participating in a randomized controlled trial of vitamin D supplementation.

PubMed

Wei, Wei; Shary, Judith R; Garrett-Mayer, Elizabeth; Anderson, Betsy; Forestieri, Nina E; Hollis, Bruce W; Wagner, Carol L

2017-12-01

Background: Little is known about bone mineral density (BMD) during pregnancy. Advances in technology with lower radiation emissions by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry instruments now permit the safe measurement of BMD during pregnancy. Objective: We evaluated maternal BMD during pregnancy as a function of vitamin D status in women of diverse racial/ethnic backgrounds. Design: A total of 301 women who underwent BMD measurements at 12-20 wk of gestation and again at 0-14 wk postpartum were included in this analysis. Women were a subset of subjects who were recruited for a randomized, controlled, double-blind trial of vitamin D supplementation in pregnancy (400, 2000, or 4000 IU/d). Results: Treatment had no significant effect on changes in BMD that occurred between 12-20 wk of gestation and 0-14 wk postpartum. Similarly, changes in spine and femoral neck bone mineral contents (BMCs) were not significantly different in the treatment groups. In addition, vitamin D inadequacy (serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration, averaged across pregnancy, <50 nmol/L) was not associated with changes in BMD or BMC. There were significant racial/ethnic differences in spine BMD. African Americans lost more spine BMD than did Caucasians (-0.04 ± 0.04 compared with -0.02 ± 0.04 g/cm 2 ; P = 0.033). In addition, baseline obesity was associated with a greater loss of femoral neck BMD. The means ± SDs of femoral neck BMD loss were -0.02 ± 0.05 and 0.0 ± 0.03 g/cm 2 for groups with baseline body mass index (BMI; in kg/m 2 ) ≥30 and <30, respectively. Conclusion: These findings do not support a dose effect of vitamin D supplementation on bone health and suggest that race/ethnicity and BMI play an important role in pregnancy bone health. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00292591. © 2017 American Society for Nutrition.

Integrated Reconfigurable Intelligent Systems (IRIS) for Complex Naval Systems

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-02-23

INTRODUCTION 35 2.2 GENERAL MODEL SETUP 36 2.2.1 Co-Simulation Principles 36 2.2.2 Double pendulum : a simple example 38 2.2.3 Description of numerical... pendulum sample problem 45 2.3 DISCUSSION OF APPROACH WITH RESPECT TO PROPOSED SUBTASKS 49 2.4 RESULTS DISCUSSION AND FUTURE WORK 49 TASK 3...Kim and Praehofer 2000]. 2.2.2 Double pendulum : a simple example In order to be able to evaluate co-simulation principles, specifically an

Multi-task feature learning by using trace norm regularization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiangmei, Zhang; Binfeng, Yu; Haibo, Ji; Wang, Kunpeng

2017-11-01

Multi-task learning can extract the correlation of multiple related machine learning problems to improve performance. This paper considers applying the multi-task learning method to learn a single task. We propose a new learning approach, which employs the mixture of expert model to divide a learning task into several related sub-tasks, and then uses the trace norm regularization to extract common feature representation of these sub-tasks. A nonlinear extension of this approach by using kernel is also provided. Experiments conducted on both simulated and real data sets demonstrate the advantage of the proposed approach.

Effects of a dietary intervention promoting the adoption of a Mediterranean food pattern on fast-food consumption among healthy French-Canadian women.

PubMed

Bédard, Alexandra; Goulet, Julie; Riverin, Mélissa; Lamarche, Benoît; Lemieux, Simone

2010-12-01

It is expected that a dietary intervention based on the traditional Mediterranean food pattern should be associated with a reduction in fast-food consumption but this has never been tested before. We assessed the impact of a 12-week dietary intervention, promoting the adoption of a Mediterranean food pattern, on fast-food consumption among seventy-one healthy women aged between 30 and 65 years. The dietary intervention consisted of two group sessions and seven individual sessions with a dietitian. To determine the Mediterranean dietary score (MedScore) and fast-food consumption, an FFQ was administered. During the 12-week intervention, the MedScore significantly increased (from 21.1 (SD 3.6) units at baseline to 28.6 (SD 4.4) units at week 12, P < 0.0001), while the fast-food consumption significantly decreased (from 51.7 (SD 46.4) g/d at baseline to 20.5 (SD 18.2) g/d at week 12, P < 0.0001). Moreover, women who had a higher consumption of fast food at baseline decreased their fast-food consumption to the most (r - 0.50, P < 0.0001). When four subgroups were formed on the basis of median values of Medscore and fast-food consumption changes, it was found that only the subgroup of women which increased the most their MedScore and decreased the most their fast-food consumption experienced a significant decrease in BMI (P < 0.01). In conclusion, a dietary intervention promoting the Mediterranean food pattern led to a decrease in fast-food consumption among healthy women even if it was not a specific target of the intervention. Dietary strategies for increasing intake of healthy foods may be a useful approach for decreasing intake of less healthy foods.

Incorporating 3D laparoscopy for the management of locally advanced cervical cancer: a comparison with open surgery.

PubMed

Raspagliesi, Francesco; Bogani, Giorgio; Martinelli, Fabio; Signorelli, Mauro; Chiappa, Valentina; Scaffa, Cono; Sabatucci, Ilaria; Adorni, Marco; Lorusso, Domenica; Ditto, Antonino

2016-08-03

To test the effects of the implementation of 3D laparoscopic technology for the execution of nerve-sparing radical hysterectomy. Thirty patients undergoing nerve-sparing radical hysterectomy via 3D laparoscopic (3D-LNSRH, n = 10) or open surgery (NSRH, n = 20) were studied prospectively. No significant differences were observed in baseline patient characteristics. Operative times were similar between groups. We compared the first 10 patients undergoing 3D-LNSRH with the last 20 patients undergoing NSRH. Baseline characteristics were similar between groups (p>0.2). Patients undergoing 3D-LNSRH had longer operative time (264.4 ± 21.5 vs 217.2 ± 41.0 minutes; p = 0.005), lower blood loss (53.4 ± 26.1 vs 177.7 ± 96.0 mL; p<0.001), and shorter length of hospital stay (4.3 ± 1.2 vs 5.4 ± 0.7 days; p = 0.03) in comparison to patients undergoing open abdominal procedures. No intraoperative complication occurred. One (10%) patient had conversion to open surgery due to technical difficulties and the inability to insert the uterine manipulator. A trend towards higher complication (grade 2 or worse) rate was observed for patients undergoing NSRH in comparison to 3D-LNSRH (p = 0.06). Considering only severe complications (grade 3 or worse), no difference was observed (0/10 vs 2/20; p = 0.54). 3D-laparoscopic nerve-sparing radical hysterectomy is a safe and effective procedure. The implementation of 3D laparoscopic technology allows the execution of challenging operations via minimally invasive surgery, thus reducing open abdominal procedure rates. Further large prospective studies are warranted.

Task report #2.2, developing very thin overlays with locally available aggregates for each district : TxDOT project 9-1529, low cost safety solutions, pavement preservation and maintenance practices for rural highways.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-04-01

The objective of this subtask was to generate crack resistant hot mix designs which could be placed very thin using locally available materials for each of the West Texas Districts wanting to participate in this study. Crack Attenuating Mixes (CAMs) ...

DDD(R)-pacing, but not AAI(R)-pacing induces left ventricular desynchronization in patients with sick sinus syndrome: tissue-Doppler and 3D echocardiographic evaluation in a randomized controlled comparison.

PubMed

Albertsen, Andi Eie; Nielsen, Jens Cosedis; Poulsen, Steen Hvitfeldt; Mortensen, Peter Thomas; Pedersen, Anders Kirstein; Hansen, Peter Steen; Jensen, Henrik Kjaerulf; Egeblad, Henrik

2008-02-01

Increasing evidence from randomized trials and experimental studies indicates that right ventricular (RV) pacing may induce congestive heart failure. We studied regional left ventricular (LV) dyssynchrony and global LV function in 50 consecutive patients with sick sinus syndrome (SSS) randomized to either atrial pacing [AAI(R)] or dual chamber RV-pacing [DDD(R)]. Fifty consecutive patients were randomized to AAI(R) or DDD(R)-pacing. Tissue-Doppler imaging was used to quantify LV dyssynchrony in terms of number of segments with delayed longitudinal contraction (DLC). Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was measured using three-dimensional echocardiography. Dyssynchrony was more pronounced in the DDD(R)-group than in the AAI(R)-group at the 12 months follow-up (P < 0.05). This reflected a significant increase of dyssynchrony in the DDD(R)-group from baseline to the 12 months follow-up (1.3 +/- 1 to 2.1 +/- 1 segments displaying DLC per patient), P < 0.05. No change was observed in the AAI(R)-group (1.6 +/- 2 to 1.3 +/- 2 segments displaying DLC per patient, NS). No difference in LVEF, NYHA or NT-proBNP was observed between AAI(R)- and DDD(R)-mode after 12 months of pacing although LVEF decreased significantly in the DDD(R)-group from baseline (63.1 +/- 8%) to the 12 months follow-up (59.3 +/- 8%, P < 0.05), while LVEF remained unchanged in the AAI(R)-group (61.5 +/- 11% at baseline vs. 62.3 +/- 7% after 12 months, NS. In patients with SSS, DDD(R)-pacing but not AAI(R)-pacing induces significant LV desynchronization and reduction of LVEF.

High-Performance Agent-Based Modeling Applied to Vocal Fold Inflammation and Repair.

PubMed

Seekhao, Nuttiiya; Shung, Caroline; JaJa, Joseph; Mongeau, Luc; Li-Jessen, Nicole Y K

2018-01-01

Fast and accurate computational biology models offer the prospect of accelerating the development of personalized medicine. A tool capable of estimating treatment success can help prevent unnecessary and costly treatments and potential harmful side effects. A novel high-performance Agent-Based Model (ABM) was adopted to simulate and visualize multi-scale complex biological processes arising in vocal fold inflammation and repair. The computational scheme was designed to organize the 3D ABM sub-tasks to fully utilize the resources available on current heterogeneous platforms consisting of multi-core CPUs and many-core GPUs. Subtasks are further parallelized and convolution-based diffusion is used to enhance the performance of the ABM simulation. The scheme was implemented using a client-server protocol allowing the results of each iteration to be analyzed and visualized on the server (i.e., in-situ ) while the simulation is running on the same server. The resulting simulation and visualization software enables users to interact with and steer the course of the simulation in real-time as needed. This high-resolution 3D ABM framework was used for a case study of surgical vocal fold injury and repair. The new framework is capable of completing the simulation, visualization and remote result delivery in under 7 s per iteration, where each iteration of the simulation represents 30 min in the real world. The case study model was simulated at the physiological scale of a human vocal fold. This simulation tracks 17 million biological cells as well as a total of 1.7 billion signaling chemical and structural protein data points. The visualization component processes and renders all simulated biological cells and 154 million signaling chemical data points. The proposed high-performance 3D ABM was verified through comparisons with empirical vocal fold data. Representative trends of biomarker predictions in surgically injured vocal folds were observed.

High-Performance Agent-Based Modeling Applied to Vocal Fold Inflammation and Repair

PubMed Central

Seekhao, Nuttiiya; Shung, Caroline; JaJa, Joseph; Mongeau, Luc; Li-Jessen, Nicole Y. K.

2018-01-01

Fast and accurate computational biology models offer the prospect of accelerating the development of personalized medicine. A tool capable of estimating treatment success can help prevent unnecessary and costly treatments and potential harmful side effects. A novel high-performance Agent-Based Model (ABM) was adopted to simulate and visualize multi-scale complex biological processes arising in vocal fold inflammation and repair. The computational scheme was designed to organize the 3D ABM sub-tasks to fully utilize the resources available on current heterogeneous platforms consisting of multi-core CPUs and many-core GPUs. Subtasks are further parallelized and convolution-based diffusion is used to enhance the performance of the ABM simulation. The scheme was implemented using a client-server protocol allowing the results of each iteration to be analyzed and visualized on the server (i.e., in-situ) while the simulation is running on the same server. The resulting simulation and visualization software enables users to interact with and steer the course of the simulation in real-time as needed. This high-resolution 3D ABM framework was used for a case study of surgical vocal fold injury and repair. The new framework is capable of completing the simulation, visualization and remote result delivery in under 7 s per iteration, where each iteration of the simulation represents 30 min in the real world. The case study model was simulated at the physiological scale of a human vocal fold. This simulation tracks 17 million biological cells as well as a total of 1.7 billion signaling chemical and structural protein data points. The visualization component processes and renders all simulated biological cells and 154 million signaling chemical data points. The proposed high-performance 3D ABM was verified through comparisons with empirical vocal fold data. Representative trends of biomarker predictions in surgically injured vocal folds were observed. PMID:29706894

Improving performance of natural language processing part-of-speech tagging on clinical narratives through domain adaptation.

PubMed

Ferraro, Jeffrey P; Daumé, Hal; Duvall, Scott L; Chapman, Wendy W; Harkema, Henk; Haug, Peter J

2013-01-01

Natural language processing (NLP) tasks are commonly decomposed into subtasks, chained together to form processing pipelines. The residual error produced in these subtasks propagates, adversely affecting the end objectives. Limited availability of annotated clinical data remains a barrier to reaching state-of-the-art operating characteristics using statistically based NLP tools in the clinical domain. Here we explore the unique linguistic constructions of clinical texts and demonstrate the loss in operating characteristics when out-of-the-box part-of-speech (POS) tagging tools are applied to the clinical domain. We test a domain adaptation approach integrating a novel lexical-generation probability rule used in a transformation-based learner to boost POS performance on clinical narratives. Two target corpora from independent healthcare institutions were constructed from high frequency clinical narratives. Four leading POS taggers with their out-of-the-box models trained from general English and biomedical abstracts were evaluated against these clinical corpora. A high performing domain adaptation method, Easy Adapt, was compared to our newly proposed method ClinAdapt. The evaluated POS taggers drop in accuracy by 8.5-15% when tested on clinical narratives. The highest performing tagger reports an accuracy of 88.6%. Domain adaptation with Easy Adapt reports accuracies of 88.3-91.0% on clinical texts. ClinAdapt reports 93.2-93.9%. ClinAdapt successfully boosts POS tagging performance through domain adaptation requiring a modest amount of annotated clinical data. Improving the performance of critical NLP subtasks is expected to reduce pipeline error propagation leading to better overall results on complex processing tasks.

Biomonitoring of 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic Acid Exposure and Dose in Farm Families

PubMed Central

Alexander, Bruce H.; Mandel, Jack S.; Baker, Beth A.; Burns, Carol J.; Bartels, Michael J.; Acquavella, John F.; Gustin, Christophe

2007-01-01

Objective We estimated 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) exposure and systemic dose in farm family members following an application of 2,4-D on their farm. Methods Farm families were recruited from licensed applicators in Minnesota and South Carolina. Eligible family members collected all urine during five 24-hr intervals, 1 day before through 3 days after an application of 2,4-D. Exposure profiles were characterized with 24-hr urine 2,4-D concentrations, which then were related to potential predictors of exposure. Systemic dose was estimated using the urine collections from the application day through the third day after application. Results Median urine 2,4-D concentrations at baseline and day after application were 2.1 and 73.1 μ g/L for applicators, below the limit of detection, and 1.2 μ g/L for spouses, and 1.5 and 2.9 μ g/L for children. The younger children (4–11 years of age) had higher median post-application concentrations than the older children (≥ 12 years of age) (6.5 vs. 1.9 μ g/L). The geometric mean systemic doses (micrograms per kilogram body weight) were 2.46 (applicators), 0.8 (spouses), 0.22 (all children), 0.32 (children 4–11 years of age), and 0.12 (children ≥ 12 years of age). Exposure to the spouses and children was primarily determined by direct contact with the application process and the number of acres treated. Multivariate models identified glove use, repairing equipment, and number of acres treated as predictors of exposure in the applicators. Conclusions We observed considerable heterogeneity of 2,4-D exposure among farm family members, primarily attributable to level of contact with the application process. Awareness of this variability and the actual magnitude of exposures are important for developing exposure and risk characterizations in 2,4-D–exposed agricultural populations. PMID:17431485

Nutritional and metabolic implications of replacing cornstarch with D-xylose in broiler chickens fed corn and soybean meal-based diet.

PubMed

Regassa, A; Kiarie, E; Sands, J S; Walsh, M C; Kim, W K; Nyachoti, C M

2017-02-01

Effects of substituting cornstarch with D-xylose on growth performance, nutrients digestibility, serum metabolites, and expression of select hepatic genes involved in glucose and lipid metabolism were investigated in broiler chickens. A total of 360 one-day-old male Ross chicks were fed 3 diets (n = 24; 5 chicks/cage) for 21 days. A control corn-soybean meal-based diet with 25% cornstarch was formulated to meet specifications. Two additional diets were formulated by substituting cornstarch with 5 or 15% D-xylose w/w. Growth performance and digestibility by index method were determined in 12 replicate cages. Birds in these replicates had free access to feed and water, the BW and feed intake (FI) were monitored weekly and the excreta samples were collected on d 18 to 20. The other 12 replicates were used for blood and liver sampling by serial slaughter. On d 18, baseline (t0) birds were sampled following a 12 h overnight fasting and birds allowed 30 min access to the feed; samples were subsequently taken at 60, 120, 180, 240, and 300 min post feeding. Serum metabolites (glucose, xylose, and insulin) were assayed at all time points, whereas expression of hepatic transcripts was evaluated at zero, 180 and 300 min. Xylose linearly reduced (P < 0.05) FI, BWG, gross energy digestibility, and feed conversion ratio (FCR) but increased (P < 0.05) serum xylose level. Serum glucose and insulin levels were higher (P < 0.05) in the post-fed state compared with baseline, irrespective of treatments. There was an interaction (P < 0.05) between diet and sampling time on the expression of hepatic genes. At t0, xylose linearly increased (P < 0.05) the expression of pyruvate carboxylase, Acetyl Co-A acethyltransferase 2 (ACAT2), and glucose transporter 2. Xylose linearly reduced (P < 0.05) the expression of ACAT2 at 300 min post feeding. In conclusion, 5% or more xylose reduced growth performance and utilization of nutrients linked to hepatic enzymes and transcription factors involved in glucose and lipid metabolism. © 2016 Poultry Science Association Inc.

Cessation of cyclic stretch induces atrophy of C2C12 myotubes.

PubMed

Soltow, Quinlyn A; Zeanah, Elizabeth H; Lira, Vitor A; Criswell, David S

2013-05-03

Cyclic stretch of differentiated myotubes mimics the loading pattern of mature skeletal muscle. We tested a cell culture model of disuse atrophy by the cessation of repetitive bouts of cyclic stretch in differentiated C2C12 myotubes. Myotubes were subjected to cyclic strain (12%, 0.7 Hz, 1 h/d) on collagen-I-coated Bioflex plates using a computer-controlled vacuum stretch apparatus (Flexcell Int.) for 2 (2dSTR) or 5 (5dSTR) consecutive days. Control cultures were maintained in the Bioflex plates without cyclic stretch for 2d or 5d. Additionally, some cultures were stretched for 2 d followed by cessation of stretch for 3d (2dSTR3dCES). Cyclic stretching (5dSTR) increased myotube diameter and overall myotube area by ~2-fold (P<0.05) compared to non-stretched controls, while cessation of stretch (2dSTR3dCES) resulted in ~80% smaller myotubes than 5dSTR cells, and 40-50% smaller than non-stretched controls (P<0.05). Further, the calpain-dependent cleavage products of αII-spectrin (150 kDa) and talin increased (3.5-fold and 2.2-fold, respectively; P<0.05) in 2dSTR3dCES myotubes, compared to non-stretched controls. The 1h cyclic stretching protocol acutely increased the phosphorylation of Akt (+4.5-fold; P<0.05) and its downstream targets, FOXO3a (+4.2-fold; P<0.05) and GSK-3β (+1.8-fold; P<0.05), which returned to baseline by 48 h after cessation of stretch. Additionally, nitric oxide production increased during stretch and co-treatment with the NOS inhibitor, l-NAME, inhibited the effects of stretch and cessation of stretch. We conclude that cessation of cyclic stretching causes myotube atrophy by activating calpains and decreasing activation of Akt. Stretch-induced myotube growth, as well as activation of atrophy signaling with cessation of stretch, are dependent on NOS activity. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Fat-soluble vitamins in cystic fibrosis and pancreatic insufficiency: efficacy of a nutrition intervention.

PubMed

Bertolaso, Chiara; Groleau, Veronique; Schall, Joan I; Maqbool, Asim; Mascarenhas, Maria; Latham, Norma E; Dougherty, Kelly A; Stallings, Virginia A

2014-04-01

The aim of the study was to assess the impact of LYM-X-SORB (LXS), an organized lipid matrix that has been shown to be absorbable without pancreatic enzyme therapy on fat-soluble vitamin status in children with cystic fibrosis (CF) and pancreatic insufficiency (PI). Children with CF and PI were randomized to daily LXS or an isocaloric placebo comparison supplement for 12 months. Serum vitamins A (retinol), D (25-hydroxyvitamin D[25D]), E (α-tocopherol, α-tocopherol:cholesterol ratio), and K (percentage of undercarboxylated osteocalcin [%ucOC] and plasma proteins induced by vitamin K absence factor II [PIVKA II]) were assessed at baseline and 12 months. Dietary intake was determined using 3-day weighed food records and supplemental vitamin intake by a comprehensive questionnaire. A total of 58 subjects (32 boys, age 10.3 ± 2.9 years [mean ± standard deviation]) with complete serum vitamin, dietary and supplemental vitamin data were analyzed. After adjusting for dietary and supplemental vitamin intake, serum retinol increased 3.0 ± 1.4 μg/dL (coefficient ± standard error) (adjusted R2 = 0.02, P = 0.03) and vitamin K status improved as demonstrated by a decreased percentage of undercarboxylated osteocalcin of -6.0% ± 1.6% by 12 months (adjusted R2 = 0.15, P < 0.001). These changes occurred in both the LXS and placebo comparison groups. No changes in serum 25D or α-tocopherol were detected. Both nutrition interventions increased caloric intake a mean of 83 ± 666 kcal/day by 12 months. Vitamins A and K status improved, whereas vitamins D and E status was unchanged during 12 months of LXS and isocaloric placebo comparison supplement in children with CF and PI.

Prospective study of telomere length and LINE-1 methylation in peripheral blood cells: the role of B vitamins supplementation.

PubMed

Pusceddu, Irene; Herrmann, Markus; Kirsch, Susanne H; Werner, Christian; Hübner, Ulrich; Bodis, Marion; Laufs, Ulrich; Wagenpfeil, Stefan; Geisel, Jürgen; Herrmann, Wolfgang

2016-08-01

Deficiencies of folate, vitamins B12 and D are common age-related conditions. Vitamin B12 and folate are necessary for DNA methylation. Telomeres appear to be regulated by DNA methylation. Here, we study the effect of B vitamins supplementation on telomere length and global DNA methylation in a prospective study. In total, 60 elderly subjects were supplemented for 1 year with either vitamin B12, B6, folate, vitamin D and calcium (group A n = 31) or only vitamin D and calcium (group B n = 29). LINE-1 methylation, relative telomere length (T/S), vitamin B12, folate, homocysteine (tHcy) , 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-methylTHF), S-adenosylhomocysteine (SAH), S-adenosylmethionine (SAM), cystathionine and vitamin D were quantified before and after supplementation. At baseline, tHcy was high, vitamin D was low, and T/S did not differ between groups A and B. Vitamin supplementation increased LINE-1 methylation in group A at site 317 but reduced LINE-1 methylation in group B at site 327. There was no correlation between T/S and LINE-1 methylation at baseline. Multiple backward regression analysis revealed baseline tHcy and 5-methylTHF are significant predictors of T/S. After supplementation in group B but not in group A, LINE-1 methylation correlated inversely with T/S, and LINE-1 methylation variation was an independent predictor of T/S variation. B vitamins decreased tHcy significantly in group A. Multiple backward regression analysis showed 5-methylTHF in group A and tHcy in group B were significant predictors for LINE-1 methylation. At baseline, the lower LINE-1 methylation observed in subjects with 5-methylTHF >10 nmol/l was in agreement with a reduced methyl group transfer due to a lower SAM formation. In group B, an increase in telomere length was correlated with lower LINE-1 methylation. Subjects with hyperhomocysteinemia >12 µmol/L had compared to those with normal tHcy a reduced LINE-1 methylation accompanied by a higher SAM and SAH (that inhibits demethylation of SAM) as well as lower 5-methylTHF. Additionally, subjects with tHcy > 12 µmol/L had longer telomeres when compared with subjects having tHcy < 12 µmol/L. The results suggest a possible effect of B vitamins for telomere biology in blood cells. Suboptimal B vitamins status and hyperhomocysteinemia are associated with altered DNA methylation and telomere length. These data have to be confirmed in future studies.

ACE I/D and ACTN3 R/X polymorphisms as potential factors in modulating exercise-related phenotypes in older women in response to a muscle power training stimuli.

PubMed

Pereira, Ana; Costa, Aldo M; Izquierdo, Mikel; Silva, António J; Bastos, Estela; Marques, Mário C

2013-10-01

Genetic variation of the human ACE I/D and ACTN3 R577X polymorphisms subsequent to 12 weeks of high-speed power training on maximal strength (1RM) of the arm and leg muscles, muscle power performance (counter-movement jump), and functional capacity (sit-to-stand test) was examined in older Caucasian women [n = 139; mean age 65.5 (8.2) years; 67.0 (10.0) kg and 1.57 (0.06) m]. Chelex 100 was used for DNA extraction, and genotype was determined by PCR-RFLP methods. Muscular strength, power, and functional testing were conducted at baseline (T1) and after 12 weeks (T2) of high-speed power training. At baseline, the ACE I/D and ACTN3 R/X polymorphisms were not associated with muscle function or muscularity phenotypes in older Caucasian women. After the 12-week high-speed training program, subjects significantly increased their muscular and functional capacity performance (p < 0.05). For both polymorphisms, significant genotype-training interaction (p < 0.05) was found in all muscular performance indices, except for 1RM leg extension in the ACE I/D (p = 0.187). Analyses of the combined effects between genotypes showed significant differences in all parameters (p < 0.05) in response to high-speed power training between the power (ACTN3 RR + RX & ACE DD) versus "non-power" muscularity-oriented genotypes (ACTN3 XX & ACE II + ID)]. Our data suggest that the ACE and ACTN3 genotypes (single or combined) exert a significant influence in the muscle phenotypes of older Caucasian women in response to high-speed power training. Thus, the ACE I/D and ACTN3 R/X polymorphisms are likely factors in modulating exercise-related phenotypes in older women, particularly in response to a resistance training stimuli.

Efficacy of two-month treatment with Xiloial eyedrops for discomfort from disposable soft contact lenses.

PubMed

Versura, Piera; Profazio, Vincenzo; Balducci, Nicole; Campos, Emilio C

2010-09-20

To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of Xiloial(®) monodose eyedrops in the treatment of patients suffering from subjective symptoms of discomfort related to disposable soft contact lens (dSCL) wear. Fifteen (12 female, three male, medium age 39 ± 9 years) dSCL wearers were enrolled. Inclusion criteria were Ocular Surface Disease Index (ODSI) symptom questionnaire score >12, tear film break-up time (TFBUT) <10 sec, Schirmer test I >10 mm over five minutes, mild punctuate keratopathy, and conjunctival staining (Oxford grading ≤4). Monodose Xiloial eyedrops were administered three times daily for a two-month period. Patients were evaluated at enrollment, after three days of washout (baseline), and after one and two months of treatment, by OSDI score, Schirmer test I, TFBUT, ferning test, ocular surface damage (Oxford grade), and serum albumin in tears (index of passive exudation related to serum leakage). At endpoint versus baseline, respectively, the mean ± standard deviation of all variables improved as follows: OSDI (8.5 ± 3 versus 20.2 ± 1.6); TFBUT (9.6 ± 1.1 versus 7.1 ± 1.0); Oxford grading (0.5 ± 0.1 versus 3.6 ± 0.8); ferning test (2 ± 1 versus 2.4 ± 0.5); and Schirmer test I (14.6 ± 1.1 versus 12 ± 2.1), with P < 0.05 for all variables (Friedman and Wilcoxon tests). Tolerability was high, with no adverse events noted. A two-month treatment with Xiloial showed good tolerance and appeared to reduce ocular surface damage and symptoms of discomfort.

Clonidine reduces diarrhea and sodium loss in patients with proximal jejunostomy: a controlled study.

PubMed

Buchman, Alan L; Fryer, Jon; Wallin, Anita; Ahn, Chul W; Polensky, Sharon; Zaremba, Karen

2006-01-01

Patients with short bowel syndrome have significant fluid losses. This represents a significant management problem, especially in patients with minimal residual intestine. We determined whether clonidine, an alpha2-adrenergic agonist, is effective in decreasing fecal water and sodium (Na) losses in patients with proximal jejunostomy. Eight parenteral nutrition (PN)-dependent subjects (3 men, 5 women), aged 49.9+/-10.2 years, with a residual small bowel length of 71.8+/-152.0 cm that ended in a jejunostomy, were studied. Subjects were admitted to the North-western General Clinical Research Center (GCRC) for a 2-day equilibrium period while receiving a self-selected 100 g fat diet with protein 1.5 g/kg/d and 30 kcal/kg/d and 1 L/d of oral rehydration solution. A D-xylose test was performed after an overnight fast. On days 3-5, all stool and urine were collected for volume, weight, fat, nitrogen, energy, sodium, magnesium, potassium, and calcium. Meals were provided in duplicate and the equivalent portions consumed by each patient were analyzed for fluid volume, fat, nitrogen, energy, sodium, magnesium, calcium, and potassium in order to calculate nutrient balances. At the conclusion of the stool and urine collections (day 6), a clonidine (0.3 mg) patch was applied to the shoulder. Subjects were restudied after 1 week. Daily fecal volume and weight were 4.514+/-1.769 L/d and 4394+/-1727 g/d, respectively, at baseline. Five subjects were net "secretors" in that excreted fecal volume exceeded oral intake. Fecal volume decreased by 427+/-562 mL/d (8.9%, p=.07). Fecal weight decreased by 438+/-527 g/d (9.4%, p=.05). Urine volume correspondingly increased by 747+/-1934 mL (18.9%, p=not significant [NS]). The increase in urine output was weakly and negatively correlated with the decrease in fecal volume and weight (r=-0.37 and -0.41, respectively, p=NS). Oral fluid intake decreased slightly from 3.328+/-1.246 L/d baseline to 3.203+/-1.119 L/d with clonidine therapy (-3.8%, p=NS). Fecal Na loss was significantly decreased from baseline (887+/-996 mg/d, 11.2+/-12.3%; p=.036). This was not related to decreased oral Na intake, which actually increased from baseline (3.799+/-2.271 g/d) to 3.933+/-1.314 g/d after clonidine therapy (p=NS). No patient developed hypotension. Our results show the transdermal administration of clonidine is associated with a modest but clinically significant decrease in fecal output in patients with short bowel syndrome and high-output proximal jejunostomy that require chronic parenteral fluid infusion. This is accompanied by decreased fecal Na loss.

Plasma 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D concentration of Dahl salt-sensitive rats decreases during high salt intake

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thierry-Palmer, Myrtle; Tewolde, Teclemicael K.; Forte, Camille; Wang, Min; Bayorh, Mohamed A.; Emmett, Nerimiah L.; White, Jolanda; Griffin, Keri

2002-01-01

Dahl salt-sensitive rats, but not salt-resistant rats, develop hypertension in response to high salt intake. We have previously shown an inverse relationship between plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OHD) concentration and blood pressure of Dahl salt-sensitive rats during high salt intake. In this study, we report on the relationship between high salt intake and plasma 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (24,25-(OH)(2)D) concentration of Dahl salt-sensitive and salt-resistant rats. Rats were fed a high salt diet (8%) and sacrificed at day 2, 7, 14, 21, and 28. Plasma 24,25-(OH)(2)D concentrations of salt-sensitive rats were reduced to 50% of that at baseline at day 2-when blood pressure and plasma 25-OHD concentration were unchanged, but 25-OHD content in the kidney was 81% of that at baseline. Plasma 24,25-(OH)(2)D concentration was reduced further to 10% of that at baseline from day 7 to 14 of high salt intake, a reduction that was prevented in rats switched to a low salt (0.3%) diet at day 7. Exogenous 24,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol (24,25-(OH)(2)D(3)), administered at a level that increased plasma 24,25-(OH)(2)D concentration to five times normal, did not attenuate the salt-induced hypertension of salt-sensitive rats. Plasma 24,25-(OH)(2)D concentration of salt-resistant rats was gradually reduced to 50% of that at baseline at day 14 and returned to baseline value at day 28 of high salt intake. We conclude that the decrease in plasma 24,25-(OH)(2)D concentration in salt-sensitive rats during high salt intake is caused by decreased 25-OHD content in the kidney and also by another unidentified mechanism.

Effect of an Internet-Based Program on Weight Loss for Low-Income Postpartum Women: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

PubMed

Phelan, Suzanne; Hagobian, Todd; Brannen, Anna; Hatley, Karen E; Schaffner, Andrew; Muñoz-Christian, Karen; Tate, Deborah F

2017-06-20

Postpartum weight retention increases lifetime risk of obesity and related morbidity. Few effective interventions exist for multicultural, low-income women. To test whether an internet-based weight loss program in addition to the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC program) for low-income postpartum women could produce greater weight loss than the WIC program alone over 12 months. A 12-month, cluster randomized, assessor-blind, clinical trial enrolling 371 adult postpartum women at 12 clinics in WIC programs from the California central coast between July 2011 and May 2015 with data collection completed in May 2016. Clinics were randomized to the WIC program (standard care group) or the WIC program plus a 12-month primarily internet-based weight loss program (intervention group), including a website with weekly lessons, web diary, instructional videos, computerized feedback, text messages, and monthly face-to-face groups at the WIC clinics. The primary outcome was weight change over 12 months, based on measurements at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months. Secondary outcomes included proportion returning to preconception weight and changes in physical activity and diet. Participants included 371 women (mean age, 28.1 years; Hispanic, 81.6%; mean weight above prepregnancy weight, 7.8 kg; mean months post partum, 5.2 months) randomized to the intervention group (n = 174) or standard care group (n = 197); 89.2% of participants completed the study. The intervention group produced greater mean 12-month weight loss compared with the standard care group (3.2 kg in the intervention group vs 0.9 kg in standard care group, P < .001; difference, 2.3 kg (95% CI, 1.1 to 3.5). More participants in the intervention group than the standard care group returned to preconception weight by 12 months (32.8% in the intervention group vs 18.6% in the standard care group, P < .001; difference, 14.2 percentage points [95% CI, 4.7 to 23.5]). The intervention group and standard care group did not significantly differ in 12-month changes in physical activity (mean [95% CI]: -7.8 min/d [-16.1 to 0.4] in the intervention group vs -7.2 min/d [-14.6 to 0.3] in the standard care group; difference, -0.7 min/d [95% CI, -42.0 to 10.6], P = .76), calorie intake (mean [95% CI]: -298 kcal/d [-423 to -174] in the intervention group vs -144 kcal/d [-257 to -32] in the standard care group; difference, -154 kcal/d [-325 to 17], P = .06), or incidences of injury (16 in the intervention group vs 16 in the standard care group) or low breastmilk supply from baseline to month 6 (21 of 61 participants in the intervention group vs 23 of 72 participants in the standard care group) and from month 6 to 12 (13 of 32 participants in the intervention group vs 14 of 37 participants in the standard care group). Among low-income postpartum women, an internet-based weight loss program in addition to the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC program) compared with the WIC program alone resulted in a statistically significant greater weight loss over 12 months. Further research is needed to determine program and cost-effectiveness as part of the WIC program. clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01408147.

Association of Testosterone Levels With Anemia in Older Men

PubMed Central

Roy, Cindy N.; Snyder, Peter J.; Stephens-Shields, Alisa J.; Artz, Andrew S.; Bhasin, Shalender; Cohen, Harvey J.; Farrar, John T.; Gill, Thomas M.; Zeldow, Bret; Cella, David; Barrett-Connor, Elizabeth; Cauley, Jane A.; Crandall, Jill P.; Cunningham, Glenn R.; Ensrud, Kristine E.; Lewis, Cora E.; Matsumoto, Alvin M.; Molitch, Mark E.; Pahor, Marco; Swerdloff, Ronald S.; Cifelli, Denise; Hou, Xiaoling; Resnick, Susan M.; Walston, Jeremy D.; Anton, Stephen; Basaria, Shehzad; Diem, Susan J.; Wang, Christina; Schrier, Stanley L.; Ellenberg, Susan S.

2017-01-01

Importance In one-third of older men with anemia, no recognized cause can be found. Objective To determine if testosterone treatment of men 65 years or older with unequivocally low testosterone levels and unexplained anemia would increase their hemoglobin concentration. Design, Setting, and Participants A double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial with treatment allocation by minimization using 788 men 65 years or older who have average testosterone levels of less than 275 ng/dL. Of 788 participants, 126 were anemic (hemoglobin Š12.7 g/dL), 62 of whom had no known cause. The trial was conducted in 12 academic medical centers in the United States from June 2010 to June 2014. Interventions Testosterone gel, the dose adjusted to maintain the testosterone levels normal for young men, or placebo gel for 12 months. Main Outcomes and Measures The percent of men with unexplained anemia whose hemoglobin levels increased by 1.0 g/dL or more in response to testosterone compared with placebo. The statistical analysis was intent-to-treat by a logistic mixed effects model adjusted for balancing factors. Results The men had a mean age of 74.8 years and body mass index (BMI) (calculated as weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared) of 30.7; 84.9% were white. Testosterone treatment resulted in a greater percentage of men with unexplained anemia whose month 12 hemoglobin levels had increased by 1.0 g/dL or more over baseline (54%) than did placebo (15%) (adjusted OR, 31.5; 95% CI, 3.7-277.8; P = .002) and a greater percentage of men who at month 12 were no longer anemic (58.3%) compared with placebo (22.2%) (adjusted OR, 17.0; 95% CI, 2.8-104.0; P = .002). Testosterone treatment also resulted in a greater percentage of men with anemia of known cause whose month 12 hemoglobin levels had increased by 1.0 g/dL or more (52%) than did placebo (19%) (adjusted OR, 8.2; 95% CI, 2.1-31.9; P = .003). Testosterone treatment resulted in a hemoglobin concentration of more than 17.5 g/dL in 6 men who had not been anemic at baseline. Conclusions and Relevance Among older men with low testosterone levels, testosterone treatment significantly increased the hemoglobin levels of those with unexplained anemia as well as those with anemia from known causes. These increases may be of clinical value, as suggested by the magnitude of the changes and the correction of anemia in most men, but the overall health benefits remain to be established. Measurement of testosterone levels might be considered in men 65 years or older who have unexplained anemia and symptoms of low testosterone levels. PMID:28241237

75 FR 45620 - Combined Notice of Filings #2

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-08-03

..., LLC. Description: FPL Energy Oliver Wind I, LLC submits tariff filing per 35.12: Oliver I Baseline... Energy South Dakota Wind, LLC submits tariff filing per 35.12: South Dakota Baseline Filing, to be..., Inc. Description: FPL Energy Stateline II, Inc. submits tariff filing per 35.12: Stateline II Baseline...

Double-blind randomized controlled trial of rolls fortified with microencapsulated iron.

PubMed

Barbosa, Teresa Negreira Navarro; Taddei, José Augusto de Aguiar Carrazedo; Palma, Domingos; Ancona-Lopez, Fábio; Braga, Josefina Aparecida Pellegrini

2012-01-01

To evaluate the impact of the fortification of rolls with microencapsulated iron sulfate with sodium alginate on the hemoglobin levels in preschoolers as compared to controls. Double-blind randomized controlled trial comprised of children aged 2 to 6 years with initial hemoglobin exceeding 9 g/dL from four not-for-profit daycares randomly selected in the city of São Paulo - Brazil. Children of 2 daycares (n = 88) received rolls with fortified wheat flour as the exposed group (EC) and children of 2 daycares (n = 85) received rolls without fortification as the control group (CG) over a 24-week period. Rolls with 4 mg iron each were offered once a day, five days a week. Hemoglobin concentrations were determined in capillary blood by HemoCue® at three moments of trial: baseline (Ml), after 12 and 24 weeks of intervention (M2, M3). Hemoglobin concentration presented significant increase up to M3 in EG (11.7-12.5-12.6 g/dL) and in CG (11.1-12.4-12.3 g/dL) with higher elevations in children initially with anemia. There was significant reduction in the occurrence of anemia from 22% to 9% in EG and from 47% to 8.2% in CG at M3. Rolls fortified with microencapsulated iron sulfate were well tolerated, increased hemoglobin levels and reduced the occurrence of anemia, but with no difference compared to the control group.

Influencing Pathways to Quality of Life and HbA1c in Patients With Diabetes: A Longitudinal Study That Inform Evidence-Based Practice.

PubMed

Hsu, Hui-Chun; Lee, Yau-Jiunn; Wang, Ruey-Hsia

2018-04-01

Determining possible associated factors and the influencing pathways to hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) levels and quality of life (QoL) will facilitate the development of effective interventions to improve the physical and psychosocial health of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). To test a hypothesized model that addressed the pathways among personal characteristics, social support, diabetes distress, and self-care behaviors to HbA1C and QoL. A total of 382 adults with T2DM were recruited. Self-reported questionnaires and medical records were used to collect data regarding personal characteristics, diabetes distress, and social support at baseline. The self-care behaviors characters were collected 6 months later, as well as QoL and HbA1C levels 1 year later. The 12-month QoL directly affected 12-month HbA1C levels. The 6-month self-care behaviors directly affected 12-month QoL, and indirectly affected 12-month HbA1C levels through 12-month QoL. Baseline diabetes distress directly affected 12-month QoL. Moreover, baseline diabetes distress indirectly affected 12-month HbA1C levels through 12-month QoL. Baseline social support directly affected baseline diabetes distress and 6-month self-care behaviors. In addition, baseline social support indirectly affected 12-month QoL through baseline diabetes distress. Baseline social support also indirectly affected 12-month QoL through 6-month self-care behaviors. Enhancing QoL is important to improve HbA1C levels. Enhancing self-care behaviors is essential to improve subsequent HbA1C control and QoL. Reducing diabetes distress is crucial to improve subsequent QoL. Improving social support is suggested a favorable strategy to reduce diabetes distress and enhance subsequent self-care behaviors in patients with T2DM. © 2018 Sigma Theta Tau International.

Rasagiline for sleep disorders in patients with Parkinson’s disease: a prospective observational study

PubMed Central

Schettino, Carla; Dato, Clemente; Capaldo, Guglielmo; Sampaolo, Simone; Di Iorio, Giuseppe; Melone, Mariarosa AB

2016-01-01

Introduction Rasagiline is a selective, irreversible monoamine oxidase B inhibitor that ameliorates the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease (PD) by inhibiting striatal dopamine metabolism. There is also evidence that monoamine oxidase B inhibitors increase melatonin levels in the pineal gland and may have a beneficial effect on sleep disorders, which are a common feature in patients with PD. Methods This single-center, prospective, observational, 12-week study compared the effect of combination therapy with levodopa 200–300 mg/d + rasagiline 1 mg/d (n=19) with levodopa 200–300 mg/d alone (n=19) in the treatment of sleep disorders in patients with idiopathic PD. Results After 12 weeks’ treatment, mean sleep latency was significantly (P<0.001) lower and the improvement in sleep latency from baseline was significantly (P=0.001) greater in patients receiving levodopa + rasagiline than in patients receiving levodopa alone. Similarly, at the end of the study, the mean total sleep time was significantly (P=0.002) longer and the improvement from baseline in mean total sleep time was significantly (P=0.026) greater in patients receiving levodopa + rasagiline than levodopa alone. There were no significant differences between treatment groups for the mean number of awakenings reported at week 12 nor the change from baseline to week 12 in mean number of awakenings. Conclusion Adding rasagiline to levodopa improved sleep outcomes and may be an appropriate option for patients with PD experiencing sleep disorders. PMID:27729794

Efficacy and safety of alirocumab in insulin‐treated individuals with type 1 or type 2 diabetes and high cardiovascular risk: The ODYSSEY DM‐INSULIN randomized trial

PubMed Central

Cariou, Bertrand; Müller‐Wieland, Dirk; Colhoun, Helen M.; Del Prato, Stefano; Tinahones, Francisco J.; Ray, Kausik K.; Bujas‐Bobanovic, Maja; Domenger, Catherine; Mandel, Jonas; Samuel, Rita; Henry, Robert R.

2017-01-01

Aims To investigate the efficacy and safety of alirocumab in participants with type 2 (T2D) or type 1 diabetes (T1D) treated with insulin who have elevated LDL cholesterol levels despite maximally tolerated statin therapy. Methods Participants at high cardiovascular risk with T2D (n = 441) or T1D (n = 76) and LDL cholesterol levels ≥1.8 mmol/L (≥70 mg/dL) were randomized 2:1 to alirocumab:placebo administered subcutaneously every 2 weeks, for 24 weeks' double‐blind treatment. Alirocumab‐treated participants received 75 mg every 2 weeks, with blinded dose increase to 150 mg every 2 weeks at week 12 if week 8 LDL cholesterol levels were ≥1.8 mmol/L. Primary endpoints were percentage change in calculated LDL cholesterol from baseline to week 24, and safety assessments. Results Alirocumab reduced LDL cholesterol from baseline to week 24 by a mean ± standard error of 49.0% ± 2.7% and 47.8% ± 6.5% vs placebo (both P < .0001) in participants with T2D and T1D, respectively. Significant reductions were observed in non‐HDL cholesterol (P < .0001), apolipoprotein B (P < .0001) and lipoprotein (a) (P ≤ .0039). At week 24, 76.4% and 70.2% of the alirocumab group achieved LDL cholesterol <1.8 mmol/L in the T2D and T1D populations (P < .0001), respectively. Glycated haemoglobin and fasting plasma glucose levels remained stable for the study duration. Treatment‐emergent adverse events were observed in 64.5% of alirocumab‐ vs 64.1% of placebo‐treated individuals (overall population). Conclusions Alirocumab produced significant LDL cholesterol reductions in participants with insulin‐treated diabetes regardless of diabetes type, and was generally well tolerated. Concomitant administration of alirocumab and insulin did not raise any safety concerns (NCT02585778). PMID:28905478

A randomized trial of vitamin D₃ supplementation in children: dose-response effects on vitamin D metabolites and calcium absorption.

PubMed

Lewis, R D; Laing, E M; Hill Gallant, K M; Hall, D B; McCabe, G P; Hausman, D B; Martin, B R; Warden, S J; Peacock, M; Weaver, C M

2013-12-01

Changes in serum vitamin D metabolites and calcium absorption with varying doses of oral vitamin D₃ in healthy children are unknown. Our objective was to examine the dose-response effects of supplemental vitamin D₃ on serum vitamin D metabolites and calcium absorption in children living at two U.S. latitudes. Black and white children (n = 323) participated in a multisite (U.S. latitudes 34° N and 40° N), triple-masked trial. Children were randomized to receive oral vitamin D₃ (0, 400, 1000, 2000, and 4000 IU/d) and were sampled over 12 weeks in winter. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25(OH)₂D) were measured using RIA and intact PTH (iPTH) by immunoradiometric assay. Fractional calcium absorption was determined from an oral stable isotope ⁴⁴Ca (5 mg) in a 150-mg calcium meal. Nonlinear and linear regression models were fit for vitamin D metabolites, iPTH, and calcium absorption. The mean baseline 25(OH)D value for the entire sample was 70.0 nmol/L. Increases in 25(OH)D depended on dose with 12-week changes ranging from -10 nmol/L for placebo to 76 nmol/L for 4000 IU. Larger 25(OH)D gains were observed for whites vs blacks at the highest dose (P < .01). Gains for 1,25(OH)₂D were not significant (P = .07), and decreases in iPTH were not dose-dependent. There was no dose effect of vitamin D on fractional calcium absorption when adjusted for pill compliance, race, sex, or baseline 25(OH)D. Large increases in serum 25(OH)D with vitamin D₃ supplementation did not increase calcium absorption in healthy children living at 2 different latitudes. Supplementation with 400 IU/d was sufficient to maintain wintertime 25(OH)D concentrations in healthy black, but not white, children.

High-dose vitamin B6 decreases homocysteine serum levels in patients with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorders: a preliminary study.

PubMed

Miodownik, Chanoch; Lerner, Vladimir; Vishne, Tali; Sela, Ben-Ami; Levine, Joseph

2007-01-01

Vitamin B6 plays an essential role in the normal functioning of the central nervous system. Normal homocysteine (Hcy) serum level is maintained by remethylation of Hcy to methionine by enzymes that require folic acid and vitamin B12 and by catabolism to cysteine by a vitamin B6-dependent enzyme. These findings may be consistent with the hypothesis that the vitamin B6 status may influence plasma Hcy levels. The aims of this preliminary study were (1) to determine whether a correlation exists between Hcy and vitamin B6 levels in patients with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorders and (2) to investigate whether treatment with high-dose vitamin B6 may reduce Hcy levels in these patients. In this preliminary study, we enrolled 11 patients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorders (7 men and 4 women; mean age +/- SD, 50 +/- 12 years) receiving high doses of vitamin B6 treatment (1200 mg/d) for 12 weeks. Blood samples for the assessment of pyridoxal-5-phosphate and Hcy serum levels were obtained at baseline and after 12 weeks of treatment. Age was significantly positively correlated with Hcy levels at baseline (r = 0.392, P = 0.004). All other parameters, including diagnosis, disease duration, and pyridoxal-5-phosphate serum level, were not correlated with Hcy serum levels at baseline. After vitamin B6 treatment, Hcy serum levels significantly decreased (14.2 +/- 3.4 vs. 11.8 +/- 2.0 micromol/L, respectively, t = 2.679, P = 0.023); this decrease being statistically significant in men but not in women. High doses of vitamin B6 lead to a decrease in Hcy serum level in male patients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder.

Impact of Collaborative Shared Medical Appointments on Diabetes Outcomes in a Family Medicine Clinic.

PubMed

Hartzler, Melody L; Shenk, McKenzie; Williams, Julie; Schoen, James; Dunn, Thomas; Anderson, Douglas

2018-05-01

Purpose The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of a collaborative diabetes shared medical appointment on patient outcomes in an urban family medicine practice. Methods Fifty-nine patients were enrolled to participate in multiple shared medical appointments (SMAs) over 12 months. Baseline data included hemoglobin (A1C), lipids, systolic blood pressure (SBP), weight, adherence to American Diabetes Association (ADA) guidelines, and surveys, including the Problem Areas in Diabetes (PAID-2) scale and the Spoken Knowledge in Low Literacy in Diabetes Scale (SKILLD). A1C and SBP were evaluated at each visit. Lipid control was assessed at baseline and at 6 and 12 months. Adherence to ADA guidelines, SKILLD and PAID-2 survey scores, and number of antihyperglycemic and antihypertensive medications were also evaluated at 12 months. Results Thirty-eight patients completed the study. Compared with baseline, A1C and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels decreased significantly over 12 months ( P < .001 and P = .004, respectively). More patients became compliant with the ADA guidelines throughout the course of the study. Specifically, more patients achieved the LDL-C goal of ≤100 mg/dL (2.59 mmol/L; P < .001), were prescribed appropriate antihypertensive medications ( P < .001) and aspirin ( P < .001), and received the pneumonia vaccine ( P < .001). PAID-2 and SKILLD survey scores also significantly improved over the course of the study ( P ≤ .001 and P = .003, respectively). Conclusion Short-term interdisciplinary SMAs decreased A1C and LDL-C, improved patient adherence to ADA guidelines, improved emotional distress related to diabetes, and increased knowledge of diabetes.

Evaluation of a multidisciplinary Tier 3 weight management service for adults with morbid obesity, or obesity and comorbidities, based in primary care.

PubMed

Jennings, A; Hughes, C A; Kumaravel, B; Bachmann, M O; Steel, N; Capehorn, M; Cheema, K

2014-10-01

A multidisciplinary Tier 3 weight management service in primary care recruited patients with a body mass index ≥40 kg·m(-2) , or 30 kg·m(-2) with obesity-related co-morbidity to a 1-year programme. A cohort of 230 participants was recruited and evaluated using the National Obesity Observatory Standard Evaluation Framework. The primary outcome was weight loss of at least 5% of baseline weight at 12 months. Diet was assessed using the two-item food frequency questionnaire, activity using the General Practice Physical Activity questionnaire and quality of life using the EuroQol-5D-5L questionnaire. A focus group explored the participants' experiences. Baseline mean weight was 124.4 kg and mean body mass index was 44.1 kg·m(-2) . A total of 102 participants achieved 5% weight loss at 12 months. The mean weight loss was 10.2 kg among the 117 participants who completed the 12-month programme. Baseline observation carried forward analysis gave a mean weight loss of 5.9 kg at 12 months. Fruit and vegetable intake, activity level and quality of life all improved. The dropout rate was 14.3% at 6 months and 45.1% at 1 year. Focus group participants described high levels of satisfaction. It was possible to deliver a Tier 3 weight management service for obese patients with complex co-morbidity in a primary care setting with a full multidisciplinary team, which obtained good health outcomes compared with existing services. © 2014 The Authors. Clinical Obesity published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of World Obesity.

Plasma stromal cell-derived factor 1α/CXCL12 level predicts long-term adverse cardiovascular outcomes in patients with coronary artery disease.

PubMed

Ghasemzadeh, Nima; Hritani, Abdul Wahab; De Staercke, Christine; Eapen, Danny J; Veledar, Emir; Al Kassem, Hatem; Khayata, Mohamed; Zafari, A Maziar; Sperling, Laurence; Hooper, Craig; Vaccarino, Viola; Mavromatis, Kreton; Quyyumi, Arshed A

2015-01-01

Stromal derived factor-1α/CXCL12 is a chemoattractant responsible for homing of progenitor cells to ischemic tissues. We aimed to investigate the association of plasma CXCL12 with long-term cardiovascular outcomes in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). 785 patients aged: 63 ± 12 undergoing coronary angiography were independently enrolled into discovery (N = 186) and replication (N = 599) cohorts. Baseline levels of plasma CXCL12 were measured using Quantikine CXCL12 ELISA assay (R&D systems). Patients were followed for cardiovascular death and/or myocardial infarction (MI) for a mean of 2.6 yrs. Cox proportional hazard was used to determine independent predictors of cardiovascular death/MI. The incidence of cardiovascular death/MI was 13% (N = 99). High CXCL12 level based on best discriminatory threshold derived from the ROC analysis predicted risk of cardiovascular death/MI (HR = 4.81, p = 1 × 10(-6)) independent of traditional risk factors in the pooled cohort. Addition of CXCL12 to a baseline model was associated with a significant improvement in c-statistic (AUC: 0.67-0.73, p = 0.03). Addition of CXCL12 was associated with correct risk reclassification of 40% of events and 10.5% of non-events. Similarly for the outcome of cardiovascular death, the addition of the CXCL12 to the baseline model was associated with correct reclassification of 20.7% of events and 9% of non-events. These results were replicated in two independent cohorts. Plasma CXCL12 level is a strong independent predictor of adverse cardiovascular outcomes in patients with CAD and improves risk reclassification. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Predictive risk factors for failure to induction therapy of lupus nephritis in a cohort of Colombian patients.

PubMed

Pinto Peñaranda, Luis Fernando; Castro Mercado, Inis Lizeth; Duque Caballero, Vladimir; Márquez Hernández, Javier Darío; Velásquez Franco, Carlos Jaime

2014-01-01

To determine the predictors of failure to obtain remission after induction therapy for proliferative lupus nephritis in a group of northwestern Colombian patients. A retrospective study was conducted. We included patients with systemic lupus erythematosus according to the American College of Rheumatology criteria who had nephritis confirmed by renal biopsy. We followed 84 patients: 88.1% female, and 11.9% male. The mean age at diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus was 27.5±11.8 years (9-70). The average time between diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus and proliferative nephritis onset was 13.6 months (0-168). Histopathologic type: iv (78.57%), iii (15.47%), iii-iv/v (5.96%). Activity index: 6.7±4.6. Chronicity index: 2±2.7. 24-hour proteinuria (mg): 6,164 (130-18,100). Baseline creatinine: 1.14 mg/dL (0.43-7.4). Induction therapy: Steroids (100%), cyclophosphamide (76.2%) and mycophenolate mofetil (23.8%). At six months, 56% of individuals failed to achieve partial or complete remission. Predictors of failure to induction therapy were, in accordance with the bivariate analysis (OR; 95%CI): creatinine level more than 1.2mg/dL (10.8; 3.18-36.84; P<.005), nephrotic range proteinuria (11.9; 3.09-45.8; P<.001), and an activity index above 8 (5.04; 1.7-14.3; P<.001). In the multivariate analysis, only baseline creatinine higher than 1.2mg/dL (10.92; 2.65-45.02; P=.001), and nephrotic range proteinuria (9.81; 1.85-52.04; P=.007) were significant. A significant percentage of Colombian patients fail to achieve remission of proliferative lupus nephritis after six months of treatment. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier España, S.L. All rights reserved.

Sample data from a Distributed Acoustic Sensing experiment at Garner Valley, California (PoroTomo Subtask 3.2)

DOE Data Explorer

Lancelle, Chelsea

2013-09-10

In September 2013, an experiment using Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) was conducted at Garner Valley, a test site of the University of California Santa Barbara (Lancelle et al., 2014). This submission includes one 45 kN shear shaker (called “large shaker” on the basemap) test for three different measurement systems. The shaker swept from a rest, up to 10 Hz, and back down to a rest over 60 seconds. Lancelle, C., N. Lord, H. Wang, D. Fratta, R. Nigbor, A. Chalari, R. Karaulanov, J. Baldwin, and E. Castongia (2014), Directivity and Sensitivity of Fiber-Optic Cable Measuring Ground Motion using a Distributed Acoustic Sensing Array (abstract # NS31C-3935), AGU Fall Meeting. https://agu.confex.com/agu/fm1/meetingapp.cgi#Paper/19828 The e-poster is available at: https://agu.confex.com/data/handout/agu/fm14/Paper_19828_handout_696_0.pdf

Forecasting residential solar photovoltaic deployment in California

DOE PAGES

Dong, Changgui; Sigrin, Benjamin; Brinkman, Gregory

2016-12-06

Residential distributed photovoltaic (PV) deployment in the United States has experienced robust growth, and policy changes impacting the value of solar are likely to occur at the federal and state levels. To establish a credible baseline and evaluate impacts of potential new policies, this analysis employs multiple methods to forecast residential PV deployment in California, including a time-series forecasting model, a threshold heterogeneity diffusion model, a Bass diffusion model, and National Renewable Energy Laboratory's dSolar model. As a baseline, the residential PV market in California is modeled to peak in the early 2020s, with a peak annual installation of 1.5-2more » GW across models. We then use the baseline results from the dSolar model and the threshold model to gauge the impact of the recent federal investment tax credit (ITC) extension, the newly approved California net energy metering (NEM) policy, and a hypothetical value-of-solar (VOS) compensation scheme. We find that the recent ITC extension may increase annual PV installations by 12%-18% (roughly 500 MW, MW) for the California residential sector in 2019-2020. The new NEM policy only has a negligible effect in California due to the relatively small new charges (< 100 MW in 2019-2020). Moreover, impacts of the VOS compensation scheme (0.12 cents per kilowatt-hour) are larger, reducing annual PV adoption by 32% (or 900-1300 MW) in 2019-2020.« less

Forecasting residential solar photovoltaic deployment in California

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

Dong, Changgui; Sigrin, Benjamin; Brinkman, Gregory

Residential distributed photovoltaic (PV) deployment in the United States has experienced robust growth, and policy changes impacting the value of solar are likely to occur at the federal and state levels. To establish a credible baseline and evaluate impacts of potential new policies, this analysis employs multiple methods to forecast residential PV deployment in California, including a time-series forecasting model, a threshold heterogeneity diffusion model, a Bass diffusion model, and National Renewable Energy Laboratory's dSolar model. As a baseline, the residential PV market in California is modeled to peak in the early 2020s, with a peak annual installation of 1.5-2more » GW across models. We then use the baseline results from the dSolar model and the threshold model to gauge the impact of the recent federal investment tax credit (ITC) extension, the newly approved California net energy metering (NEM) policy, and a hypothetical value-of-solar (VOS) compensation scheme. We find that the recent ITC extension may increase annual PV installations by 12%-18% (roughly 500 MW, MW) for the California residential sector in 2019-2020. The new NEM policy only has a negligible effect in California due to the relatively small new charges (< 100 MW in 2019-2020). Moreover, impacts of the VOS compensation scheme (0.12 cents per kilowatt-hour) are larger, reducing annual PV adoption by 32% (or 900-1300 MW) in 2019-2020.« less

Triangular Titanium Implants for Minimally Invasive Sacroiliac Joint Fusion: A Prospective Study.

PubMed

Duhon, Bradley S; Cher, Daniel J; Wine, Kathryn D; Kovalsky, Don A; Lockstadt, Harry

2016-05-01

Study Design Prospective multicenter single-arm interventional clinical trial. Objective To determine the degree of improvement in sacroiliac (SI) joint pain, disability related to SI joint pain, and quality of life in patients with SI joint dysfunction who undergo minimally invasive SI joint fusion using triangular-shaped titanium implants. Methods Subjects (n = 172) underwent minimally invasive SI joint fusion between August 2012 and January 2014 and completed structured assessments preoperatively and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively, including a 100-mm SI joint and back pain visual analog scale (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Short Form-36 (SF-36), and EuroQOL-5D. Patient satisfaction with surgery was assessed at 6 and 12 months. Results Mean SI joint pain improved from 79.8 at baseline to 30.0 and 30.4 at 6 and 12 months, respectively (mean improvements of 49.9 and 49.1 points, p < 0.0001 each). Mean ODI improved from 55.2 at baseline to 32.5 and 31.4 at 6 and 12 months (improvements of 22.7 and 23.9 points, p < 0.0001 each). SF-36 physical component summary improved from 31.7 at baseline to 40.2 and 40.3 at 6 and 12 months (p < 0.0001). At 6 and 12 months, 93 and 87% of subjects, respectively, were somewhat or very satisfied and 92 and 91%, respectively, would have the procedure again. Conclusions Minimally invasive SI joint fusion resulted in improvement of pain, disability, and quality of life in patients with SI joint dysfunction due to degenerative sacroiliitis and SI joint disruption.

Triangular Titanium Implants for Minimally Invasive Sacroiliac Joint Fusion: A Prospective Study

PubMed Central

Duhon, Bradley S.; Cher, Daniel J.; Wine, Kathryn D.; Kovalsky, Don A.; Lockstadt, Harry

2015-01-01

Study Design Prospective multicenter single-arm interventional clinical trial. Objective To determine the degree of improvement in sacroiliac (SI) joint pain, disability related to SI joint pain, and quality of life in patients with SI joint dysfunction who undergo minimally invasive SI joint fusion using triangular-shaped titanium implants. Methods Subjects (n = 172) underwent minimally invasive SI joint fusion between August 2012 and January 2014 and completed structured assessments preoperatively and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively, including a 100-mm SI joint and back pain visual analog scale (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Short Form-36 (SF-36), and EuroQOL-5D. Patient satisfaction with surgery was assessed at 6 and 12 months. Results Mean SI joint pain improved from 79.8 at baseline to 30.0 and 30.4 at 6 and 12 months, respectively (mean improvements of 49.9 and 49.1 points, p < 0.0001 each). Mean ODI improved from 55.2 at baseline to 32.5 and 31.4 at 6 and 12 months (improvements of 22.7 and 23.9 points, p < 0.0001 each). SF-36 physical component summary improved from 31.7 at baseline to 40.2 and 40.3 at 6 and 12 months (p < 0.0001). At 6 and 12 months, 93 and 87% of subjects, respectively, were somewhat or very satisfied and 92 and 91%, respectively, would have the procedure again. Conclusions Minimally invasive SI joint fusion resulted in improvement of pain, disability, and quality of life in patients with SI joint dysfunction due to degenerative sacroiliitis and SI joint disruption. PMID:27099817

EQ-5D-5L and SF-6D Utility Measures in Symptomatic benign Thyroid Nodules: Acceptability and Psychometric Evaluation.

PubMed

Wong, Carlos K H; Lang, Brian H H; Yu, Hill M S; Lam, Cindy L K

2017-08-01

The aim of this study was to examine the acceptability, validity, and reliability of the EuroQoL Five-Dimension Five-Level (EQ-5D-5L) and Short-Form Six-Dimension (SF-6D) health utility measures in patients with symptomatic benign thyroid nodules. Data from a randomized controlled trial (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02398721) of 294 patients with symptomatic benign thyroid nodules were utilized for this psychometric evaluation of health-related quality of life (HR-QOL) measurement. Three HR-QOL questionnaires-the generic 12-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-12v2), EQ-5D-5L, and SF-6D-were interviewer-administered at baseline and 2 weeks afterwards. Responses to SF-6D were transformed to SF-6D utility scores using a Hong Kong population scoring algorithm derived by standard gamble, whereas responses to EQ-5D-5L were mapped onto EQ-5D-3L response via interim mapping algorithms and then converted to EQ-5D-5L utility scores using a Chinese-specific value set. Construct validity was determined by evaluating Spearman correlation between SF-12v2 scores and utility scores. Two-week test-retest reliability was assessed using intra-class correlation coefficient. No significant (>15%) floor and ceiling effects were observed for SF-6D utility scores. The SF-6D utility scores had a moderate Spearman rank correlation with the SF-12v2 domain score providing evidence for adequate construct validity. The SF-6D utility scores showed good test-retest reliability (0.794; range 0.696-0.860). Better reliability was observed in SF-6D utility scores than in EQ-5D-5L utility scores. While the EQ-5D-5L instrument was less reproducible, the SF-6D instrument appeared to be an applicable, valid, and reliable measure in assessing the HR-QOL of Chinese patients with symptomatic benign thyroid nodules. The impact of utility score selection on the effectiveness and cost effectiveness of clinical interventions targeted to these patients needs further exploration. NCT02398721, ClinicalTrials.gov.

Development of two fluorine-18 labeled PET radioligands targeting PDE10A and in vivo PET evaluation in nonhuman primates.

PubMed

Stepanov, Vladimir; Takano, Akihiro; Nakao, Ryuji; Amini, Nahid; Miura, Shotaro; Hasui, Tomoaki; Kimura, Haruhide; Taniguchi, Takahiko; Halldin, Christer

2018-02-01

Phosphodiesterase 10A (PDE10A) is a member of the PDE enzyme family that degrades cyclic adenosine and guanosine monophosphates (cAMP and cGMP). Based on the successful development of [ 11 C]T-773 as PDE10A positron emission tomography (PET) radioligand, in this study our aim was to develop and evaluate fluorine-18 analogs of [ 11 C]T-773. [ 18 F]FM-T-773-d 2 and [ 18 F]FE-T-773-d 4 were synthesized from the same precursor used for 11 C-labeling of T-773 in a two-step approach via 18 F-fluoromethylation and 18 F-fluoroethylation, respectively, using corresponding deuterated synthons. A total of 12 PET measurements were performed in seven non-human primates. First, baseline PET measurements were performed using High Resolution Research Tomograph system with both [ 18 F]FM-T-773-d 2 and [ 18 F]FE-T-773-d 4 ; the uptake in whole brain and separate brain regions, as well as the specific binding and tissue ratio between putamen and cerebellum, was examined. Second, baseline and pretreatment PET measurements using MP-10 as the blocker were performed for [ 18 F]FM-T-773-d 2 including arterial blood sampling with radiometabolite analysis in four NHPs. Both [ 18 F]FM-T-773-d 2 and [ 18 F]FE-T-773-d 4 were successfully radiolabeled with an average molar activity of 293 ± 114 GBq/μmol (n=8) for [ 18 F]FM-T-773-d 2 and 209 ± 26 GBq/μmol (n=4) for [ 18 F]FE-T-773-d 4 , and a radiochemical yield of 10% (EOB, n=12, range 3%-16%). Both radioligands displayed high brain uptake (~5.5% of injected radioactivity for [ 18 F]FM-T-773-d 2 and ~3.5% for [ 18 F]FE-T-773-d 4 at the peak) and a fast washout. Specific binding reached maximum within 30 min for [ 18 F]FM-T-773-d 2 and after approximately 45 min for [ 18 F]FE-T-773-d 4 . [ 18 F]FM-T-773-d 2 data fitted well with kinetic compartment models. BP ND values obtained indirectly through compartment models were correlated well with those obtained by SRTM. BP ND calculated with SRTM was 1.0-1.7 in the putamen. The occupancy with 1.8 mg/kg of MP-10 was approximately 60%. [ 18 F]FM-T-773-d 2 and [ 18 F]FE-T-773-d 4 were developed as fluorine-18 PET radioligands for PDE10A, with the [ 18 F]FM-T-773-d 2 being the more promising PET radioligand warranting further evaluation. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The First Intervention Study in Elder Self-Neglect: A Randomized Clinical Trial to Improve Vitamin D Levels

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Burnett, Jason; Hochschild, Ann; Smith, Scott M.; Diamond, Pam; Stotts, Angela; Dyer, Carmel

2011-01-01

Despite high mortality rates, elder self-neglect is characterized by refusal of medical and social interventions. To date there have been no tested clinical interventions in elders who self-neglect. Previous research from the TEAM Institute has shown significantly low vitamin D levels in this population. This study aimed to determine the feasibility of a clinical intervention. Replacement of vitamin D was chosen because of its ease of administration and favorable safety profile. Methods: A randomized clinical trial using directly observed therapy of vitamin D was conducted using 50 elders, >65 years of age, with Adult Protective Services (APS) validated self-neglect. A staggered intervention with waiting controls was used to maximize statistical power. One-third (n=17) of the group was administered 50,000 IU vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) monthly and the remainder (n=33) were administered 400 IU monthly. Serum 25-OH vitamin D was assessed at baseline and 5-months. Results: 69% agreed to participate in the study and of those n=40 (80%) remained at 5-months. At baseline, 12% (n=7) were deficient in vitamin D (<30nmol/L) and approximately 38% (n=22) had inadequate vitamin D levels (<50nmol/L). The baseline 25-OH vitamin D level was 59 nmol/L +25 (mean SD), and increased significantly to 72nmol/L +21 nmol/L at 5-months. Conclusion: These data are the first to provide evidence that clinical interventions are feasible in elders who self-neglect. The increase in vitamin D levels confirmed that the study personnel were able to successfully intervene community-dwelling elders with self-neglect. This study sets the precedent for future intervention and prevention studies

Impact of a community-based lifestyle intervention program on health-related quality of life.

PubMed

Eaglehouse, Yvonne L; Schafer, Gerald L; Arena, Vincent C; Kramer, M Kaye; Miller, Rachel G; Kriska, Andrea M

2016-08-01

The presence of risk factors for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, or the conditions themselves, contributes to lower health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among adults. Although community-based lifestyle intervention programs have been shown to be effective for improving risk factors for these diseases, the impact of these interventions on HRQoL has rarely been described. To examine changes in HRQoL following participation in the Group Lifestyle Balance program, a community translation of the Diabetes Prevention Program lifestyle intervention for adults with prediabetes and/or the metabolic syndrome. Participants enrolled in the 12-month, 22-session intervention program (N = 223) completed the EuroQol Health Questionnaire (EQ-5D-3L) at baseline, 6, and 12 months. Linear mixed-effects regression models determined change in EQ-5D-visual analog scale (VAS) and Index scores post-intervention. Mean EQ-5D-VAS was improved by +7.38 (SE = 1.03) at 6 months and by +6.73 (SE = 1.06) at 12 months post-intervention (both; p < 0.0001). Mean changes in EQ-5D index values were +0.00 (SE = 0.01; NS) and +0.01 (SE = 0.01; p < 0.05), respectively. Adjusted for age, baseline score, and achieving intervention goals, mean change in EQ-5D-VAS was +11.83 (SE = 1.61) at 6 months and +11.23 (SE = 1.54) at 12 months (both; p < 0.0001). Adjusted mean change in EQ-5D index value was +0.04 (SE = 0.01) at 6 months and +0.05 (SE = 0.01) at 12 months (both; p < 0.01). Participation in a community lifestyle intervention program resulted in improved HRQoL among adults with prediabetes and/or the metabolic syndrome. These benefits to HRQoL, together with improved clinical and behavioral outcomes, should increase the appeal of such programs for improving health.

Patterns of dental caries following the cessation of water fluoridation.

PubMed

Maupomé, G; Clark, D C; Levy, S M; Berkowitz, J

2001-02-01

To compare prevalence and incidence of caries between fluoridation-ended and still-fluoridated communities in British Columbia, Canada, from a baseline survey and after three years. At the baseline (1993/4 academic year) and follow-up (1996/7) surveys, children were examined at their schools. Data were collected on snacking, oral hygiene, exposure to fluoride technologies, and socio-economic level. These variables were used together with D1D2MFS indices in multiple regression models. The prevalence of caries (assessed in 5,927 children, grades 2, 3, 8, 9) decreased over time in the fluoridation-ended community while remaining unchanged in the fluoridated community. While numbers of filled surfaces did not vary between surveys, sealed surfaces increased at both study sites. Caries incidence (assessed in 2,994 life-long residents, grades 5, 6, 11, 12) expressed in terms of D1D2MFS was not different between the still-fluoridating and fluoridation-ended communities. There were, however, differences in caries experienced when D1D2MFS components and surfaces at risk were investigated in detail. Regression models did not identify specific variables markedly affecting changes in the incidence of dental decay. Our results suggest a complicated pattern of disease following cessation of fluoridation. Multiple sources of fluoride besides water fluoridation have made it more difficult to detect changes in the epidemiological profile of a population with generally low caries experience, and living in an affluent setting with widely accessible dental services. There are, however, subtle differences in caries and caries treatment experience between children living in fluoridated and fluoridation-ended areas.

Effects of high-dose simvastatin on adrenal and gonadal steroidogenesis in men with hypercholesterolemia.

PubMed

Dobs, A S; Schrott, H; Davidson, M H; Bays, H; Stein, E A; Kush, D; Wu, M; Mitchel, Y; Illingworth, R D

2000-09-01

In view of the role of both the de novo biosynthesis and receptor-mediated uptake of cholesterol for normal steroidogenesis, we evaluated whether extending the therapeutic dose of the hepatic hydroxymethyl glutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitor, simvastatin, to 80 mg/d would affect adrenal and gonadal steroid synthesis in men with hypercholesterolemia. To evaluate this question, we enrolled men into a multicenter randomized, placebo-controlled study lasting 12 weeks. Men with serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) more than 145 mg/dL after 6 weeks of a lipid-lowering diet were randomized to 80 mg simvastatin or placebo. Half of the subjects were asked to undergo a 6-hour infusion of corticotropin (ACTH) to evaluate cortisol synthesis, and the entire cohort received a human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) stimulation test to assess gonadal hormone secretion using pooled serum samples taken 15 minutes apart. A total of 81 men (age, 45 +/- 11 years; 93% Caucasian) with baseline serum LDL-C of 197 mg/dL (placebo, n = 39) and 184 mg/dL (simvastatin 80 mg, n = 42) completed the study. After 12 weeks, serum LDL-C, triglycerides, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) in the simvastatin group changed by -43%, -25%, and 8%, respectively (all P < .001). The basal cortisol level and the peak serum cortisol and area under the curve response to the 6-hour ACTH infusion were comparable between the two treatment groups at baseline and after 12 weeks. The pooled total testosterone level at baseline was 541 and 513 ng/dL in the placebo and simvastatin-treated groups, respectively, which declined to 536 +/- 20.5 ng/dL (-1.5%) and 474 +/- 30.4 ng/dL (-13.6%, P = .09) after treatment (mean +/- SD). The pooled free testosterone declined by 6.3% in the simvastatin group, versus a 4.9% increase in the placebo group (P = .588), while pooled bioavailable testosterone declined 10.2% in the simvastatin group and increased 1.4% in the placebo group (P = .035). There were no changes in serum gonadotropin levels or sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG). After administration of hCG, there were no differences in the peak total pooled testosterone level before or after 12 weeks of treatment. Simvastatin 80 mg was well tolerated compared with placebo. In conclusion, basal and stimulated cortisol production was unaffected by the use of simvastatin 80 mg versus placebo. As reported with other statins and cholestyramine, there were small declines in the simvastatin-treated group for pooled total, free, and bioavailable testosterone after 12 weeks, although there was no compensatory increase in serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) or luteinizing hormone (LH) levels.

LEVELS OF SYNTHETIC MUSKS COMPOUNDS IN ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Synthetic musk compounds are consumer chemicals manufactured as fragrance materials and consumed in very large quantities worldwide. Due to their high use and release, they have become ubiquitous in the environment. We analyzed water samples from the confluence of three municipal sewage treatment effluent streams, surface water, and whole carp ( Cyprinus carpio) for synthetic musks for a period of 12 months. The lipid content of each fish was determined and compared with the concentration of musks in the whole fish tissue. Innovative methods were used for water sampling and musk extraction. The data presented here provide insight as to the relationship between concentrations of synthetic musks in the municipal effluent and associated biota. This study confirmed the presence of polycylic and nitro musk compounds in sewage effluuent, Lake Mead water, and carp. The concentrations were found to be considerably lower than previous studies conducted in oilier countries. This study also established the statistical variation in the concentrations of Galaxolide (a polycyclic musk) and musk xylene (a nitro musk) in carp. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality. Located In the subtasks are the various research projects being performed in support of this Task and more in-depth coverage of each project. Briefly, each pro

A controlled, randomized, delayed-start study of rasagiline in early Parkinson disease.

PubMed

2004-04-01

Treatment with rasagiline mesylate, an irreversible monoamine oxidase type B inhibitor, improves symptoms of early Parkinson disease (PD). Preclinical studies suggest that this compound may also modify the progression of PD. To compare the effects of early and later initiation of rasagiline on progression of disability in patients with PD. Double-blind, parallel-group, randomized, delayed-start clinical trial. Four hundred four subjects with early PD, not requiring dopaminergic therapy, enrolled at 32 sites in the United States and Canada. Subjects were randomized to receive rasagiline, 1 or 2 mg/d, for 1 year or placebo for 6 months followed by rasagiline, 2 mg/d, for 6 months. Change in total Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale score from baseline to 12 months. Three hundred seventy-one subjects were included in the 1-year efficacy analysis. Subjects treated with rasagiline, 2 mg/d, for 1 year had a 2.29-unit smaller increase in mean adjusted total Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale score compared with subjects treated with placebo for 6 months followed by rasagiline, 2 mg/d, for 6 months (P =.01). The mean adjusted difference between the placebo/rasagiline, 2 mg/d, group and those receiving rasagiline, 1 mg/d, for 1 year was -1.82 unit on the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale score (P =.05). Subjects treated with rasagiline, 2 and 1 mg/d, for 12 months showed less functional decline than subjects whose treatment was delayed for 6 months.

The effects of gum arabic oral treatment on the metabolic profile of chronic renal failure patients under regular haemodialysis in Central Sudan.

PubMed

Ali, Adil Ahmed; Ali, Khalid Eltom; Fadlalla, Abd Eigani; Khalid, Khalid Eltahir

2008-01-10

This study aimed at assessing the effect of gum arabic (Acacia senegal) oral treatment on the metabolic profile of chronic renal failure (CRF) patients. A total of 36 CRF patients (under regular haemodialysis) and 10 normal subjects participated in this study. The patients were randomly allocated into three groups-group A: 12 CRF patients under low-protein diet (LPD) (<40 g day(-1)) and gum arabic (50 g day(-1)) treatment; group B: 14 CRF patients under LPD and gum arabic, iron (ferrous sulphate, 200 mg day(-1)) and folic acid (5 mg day(-1)) treatment; group C (control group): 10 CRF patients under LPD and iron and folic acid treatment and group D: 10 normal volunteers (on normal diet) under daily dose of 50 g gum arabic. Each of the above treatments was continued for three consecutive months. Blood samples were collected from each subject before treatment and twice per month "pre-dialysis" for 3 months. Biochemical parameters measured were: serum urea, serum creatinine, serum uric acid, serum calcium and serum phosphorus. By the end of the 3 months of treatment, serum urea levels significantly decreased by 31.2 and 44.18% for group A and B, respectively, compared with the baseline (0.01 < p < 0.001) and control group (p < 0.05). Serum creatinine levels significantly decreased in the groups of gum users (A, B and D) by 9.94, 12.65 and 11.7%, respectively, compared with the control group (p < 0.001). There was a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in serum uric acid levels by 14 and 19.9% for group A and B, respectively, compared with the baseline. Serum calcium levels increased by 12.64, 15.75 and 8.75% for group A, B and D, respectively, and these increases were significantly different (0.05 < p < 0.001) from baseline and control group for groups A and B. Serum phosphorus levels significantly decreased by 22.54% for group A, 17.69% for group B and 7.71% for group D, compared with the baseline (0.05 < p < 0.001). From this study, we conclude that oral administration of gum arabic could conceivably alleviate adverse effects of CRF.

Reversal of Glaucoma Hemifield Test Results and Visual Field Features in Glaucoma.

PubMed

Wang, Mengyu; Pasquale, Louis R; Shen, Lucy Q; Boland, Michael V; Wellik, Sarah R; De Moraes, Carlos Gustavo; Myers, Jonathan S; Wang, Hui; Baniasadi, Neda; Li, Dian; Silva, Rafaella Nascimento E; Bex, Peter J; Elze, Tobias

2018-03-01

To develop a visual field (VF) feature model to predict the reversal of glaucoma hemifield test (GHT) results to within normal limits (WNL) after 2 consecutive outside normal limits (ONL) results. Retrospective cohort study. Visual fields of 44 503 eyes from 26 130 participants. Eyes with 3 or more consecutive reliable VFs measured with the Humphrey Field Analyzer (Swedish interactive threshold algorithm standard 24-2) were included. Eyes with ONL GHT results for the 2 baseline VFs were selected. We extracted 3 categories of VF features from the baseline tests: (1) VF global indices (mean deviation [MD] and pattern standard deviation), (2) mismatch between baseline VFs, and (3) VF loss patterns (archetypes). Logistic regression was applied to predict the GHT results reversal. Cross-validation was applied to evaluate the model on testing data by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). We ascertained clinical glaucoma status on a patient subset (n = 97) to determine the usefulness of our model. Predictive models for GHT results reversal using VF features. For the 16 604 eyes with 2 initial ONL results, the prevalence of a subsequent WNL result increased from 0.1% for MD < -12 dB to 13.8% for MD ≥-3 dB. Compared with models with VF global indices, the AUC of predictive models increased from 0.669 (MD ≥-3 dB) and 0.697 (-6 dB ≤ MD < -3 dB) to 0.770 and 0.820, respectively, by adding VF mismatch features and computationally derived VF archetypes (P < 0.001 for both). The GHT results reversal was associated with a large mismatch between baseline VFs. Moreover, the GHT results reversal was associated more with VF archetypes of nonglaucomatous loss, severe widespread loss, and lens rim artifacts. For a subset of 97 eyes, using our model to predict absence of glaucoma based on clinical evidence after 2 ONL results yielded significantly better prediction accuracy (87.7%; P < 0.001) than predicting GHT results reversal (68.8%) with a prescribed specificity 67.7%. Using VF features may predict the GHT results reversal to WNL after 2 consecutive ONL results. Copyright © 2017 American Academy of Ophthalmology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Study protocol: the effect of vitamin D supplements on cardiometabolic risk factors among urban premenopausal women in a tropical country -- a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Ramly, Mazliza; Moy, Foong Ming; Pendek, Rokiah; Suboh, Suhaili; Tan Tong Boon, Alexander

2013-05-01

Besides its classical role in musculoskeletal diseases, vitamin D deficiency has recently been found to be associated with cardiometabolic risks such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus and hypercholesterolemia. Although Malaysia is a sunshine-abundant country, recent studies found that vitamin D deficiency prevalence was significantly high. However, few published studies that measured its effect on cardiometabolic risk factors were found in Malaysia. There are also limited clinical trials carried out globally that tried to establish the causality of vitamin D and cardiometabolic risks. Therefore, a double blind, parallel, randomized controlled trial on vitamin D and cardiometabolic risks is planned to be carried out.The objective of this study is to investigate whether vitamin D supplements can reduce the cardiometabolic risk and improve the quality of life in urban premenopausal women with vitamin D deficiency. Three hundred and twenty premenopausal women working in a public university in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia will be randomized to receive either vitamin D supplement (50,000 IU weekly for 8 weeks and 50,000 IU monthly for 10 months) or placebo for 12 months. At baseline, all participants are vitamin D deficient (≤ 20 ng/ml or 50 nmol/l). Both participants and researchers will be blinded. The serum vitamin D levels of all participants collected at various time points will only be analysed at the end of the trial. Outcome measures such as 25(OH) D3, HOMA-IR, blood pressure, full lipid profiles will be taken at baseline, 6 months and 12 months. Health related quality of life will be measured at baseline and 12 months. The placebo group will be given delayed treatment for six months after the trial. This trial will be the first study investigating the effect of vitamin D supplements on both the cardiometabolic risk and quality of life among urban premenopausal women in Malaysia. Our findings will contribute to the growing body of knowledge in the role of vitamin D supplements in the primary prevention for cardiometabolic disease. ACTRN12612000452897.

Predictors of serum 25(Oh)D increase following bimonthly supplementation with 100,000IU vitamin D in healthy, men aged 25-65 years.

PubMed

Tepper, Sigal; Shahar, Danit R; Geva, Diklah; Ish-Shalom, Sofia

2014-10-01

Vitamin D replenishment therapy typically entails standard dosages, but related increases in serum 25(OH)D levels vary between individuals. This study was aimed to identify factors that affect the efficacy of vitamin D supplementation. 79 healthy men aged 25-65 with 25(OH)D<20ng/ml participated in a vitamin D supplementation study. All participants received 100,000IU vitamin D bimonthly, e.g., 1666IU/day. Personal and demographic information, physical activity and sun-exposure questionnaires were completed by the participants. Weight, height, and waist circumference were recorded. Serum calcium, creatinine, 25(OH)D, PTH, lipid profile, and liver-enzyme levels were assessed. All measurements were repeated after 6 and 12 months. The difference between baseline serum 25(OH)D and 12-month measurements was calculated (delta). Linear regression was performed to identify predictors for increases in 25(OH)D levels. Mean serum 25(OH)D level increases according to BMI were 12.6±5.29ng/ml for BMI≤25, 10.12±4.95ng/ml for 2530, which differed significantly from the other BMI categories (p=0.003). In a regression model to predict 25(OH)D increase, BMI was the main predictor (p<0.001), explaining 21.6% of the variance in serum 25(OH)D (inverse association). Age, sun-exposure, serum cholesterol, physical-activity, baseline 25(OH)D levels and seasonality were insignificant. The full model explained 27.9% of the variance in serum 25(OH)D. This study's main findings are that BMI affect vitamin D response in healthy men. Quantitative supplementation adjustments may be warranted in obese men, for whom the dose may need to be doubled. This article is part of a special issue entitled '16th Vitamin D Workshop'. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Phase 0 Trial of Itraconazole for Early-Stage Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-10-01

tissue and blood sampling in addition to magnetic resonance imaging ( MRI ) scans for biomarker analysis. At the time of surgery, resected tissue will...original proposal, these subjects underwent study-related MRI scans, skin biopsies, blood tests, treatment with itraconazole, and surgical resection...not complete serial MRIs scans. Task 2: Determine anti-angiogenic effects of itraconazole Subtask 2a: Blood-based PD studies As described in the

Effect of oral calcium disodium EDTA on iron absorption in a human model of iron overdose.

PubMed

Matteucci, Michael J; Habibe, Michael; Robson, Kristie; Baldassano, Accursia A; Riffenburgh, Robert H; Tanen, David A

2006-01-01

Anecdotal case reports and animal models have suggested that the administration of CaNa2EDTA (EDTA) may be effective in reducing the absorption of iron after an oral iron overdose. We designed this study to determine the effect of orally administrated EDTA with or without activated charcoal (AC) on iron absorption after a mild iron ingestion in healthy human volunteers. A randomized, crossover study was conducted in eight healthy human volunteers. All subjects ingested 5 mg/kg of elemental iron in the form of ferrous sulfate. One hour post ingestion, subjects were randomized to receive 35 mg/kg EDTA, EDTA plus 50 grams of AC, or water. Serial iron levels were obtained at baseline and every hour for the first 6 hours, then at 8, 12, and 24 hours. A 2-week washout was used between study arms. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used for the following comparisons between treatment groups: baseline serum iron levels, area under time-concentration curves (AUCs) from baseline to 12 hours and baseline to 24 hours, and peak iron levels. Baseline serum iron levels did not differ among the three treatment groups (p = 0.844). AUCs were not different among groups (p = 0.746 for 12 hr, p = 0.925 for 24 hr). AUC medians (with 95% binomial confidence bounds) for control, EDTA, EDTA + AC groups, respectively, for 12 hr were: 2813 (2298, 3561), 2570 (1669, 3476), and 2654 (2125, 3600); and for 24 hr were: 4083 (3488,5314), 4139 (2666, 5547), and 4274 (3336, 5577). Peak serum iron levels did not differ among treatment groups (p = 0.481). Peak iron level medians in microg/dL (with 95% binomial confidence bounds) were for control: 329 (253, 382), for EDTA: 271 (184, 375), and for EDTA + AC: 285 (229, 352). Orally administered EDTA did not significantly reduce iron absorption when administered 1 hour post iron ingestion during the 12 or 24-hour period following the ingestion of 5 mg/kg of elemental iron in healthy human volunteers.

Anti-inflammatory effect of vitamin D on gingivitis: a dose response randomised controlled trial.

PubMed

Hiremath, Vishwanath P; Rao, C Bhasker; Naiak, Vijaya; Prasad, K V V

2013-01-01

In a randomized controlled trial, a daily Oral Vitamin D supplementation was given in dose of 2000 IU for Group A, 1000 IU for Group B , 500 IU for Group C and placebo for Group D over 3 months period to assess the anti-inflammatory effect of vitamin D on gingivitis at various doses. The changes in gingival scores were measured at the period of 1 st , 2 nd and 3 rd month. Gingivitis score changed in direct proportion to the dose of vitamin D supplementation. Group A mean gingival scores were 2.4 (baseline); 1.7 (1 st month), 0.8 (2 nd month) and 0.3 (3 rd month). The group B the mean baseline gingival score from 2.3 reduced to 2.0 (month), 1.1 (two months) and 0.5 (third month). Group C had baseline gingival scores of 2.2 and 1.9 (1 st month), 1.4 (2 nd month) and 0.8 (last visit). Comparing baseline gingivitis scores with later visit score by Wilcoxon paired test, the anti-inflammatory effect was significantly seen in group A after one month itself, group B at two months and group C at 3 rd month after oral vitamin D supplementation. However, Group D did not show any significant anti-inflammatory effect.

A 5-year cohort study of the effects of high protein intake on lean mass and BMC in elderly postmenopausal women.

PubMed

Meng, Xingqiong; Zhu, Kun; Devine, Amanda; Kerr, Deborah A; Binns, Colin W; Prince, Richard L

2009-11-01

Long-term effects of high dietary protein intake on muscle and bone structure in the elderly are not clear. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between baseline protein intake and lean mass and BMC 5 yr later in a cohort of elderly postmenopausal women. A total of 862 community-dwelling women 75 +/- 3 yr of age provided baseline data including nutrient intake assessed by a food frequency questionnaire. At 5 yr, upper arm muscle area (UAMA) and body composition using DXA were measured. Baseline protein intake was 81 +/- 28 g/d (1.2 +/- 0.4 g/kg/d), contributing 19 +/- 3% of total energy intake. There were positive correlations between baseline protein intake and whole body and appendicular bone-free lean mass and BMC (r = 0.14-0.18, p < 0.001) and UAMA (r = 0.08, p < 0.05). Compared with those in the lowest tertile of protein intake (<66 g/d), women in the top tertile (>87 g/d) had 5.4-6.0% higher whole body and appendicular lean mass and UAMA and 5.3-6.0% higher whole body and appendicular BMC. These effects remained after adjusting for potential confounders. However, the effect on BMC disappeared after further adjustment for lean mass. This study shows that high protein intake is associated with long-term beneficial effects on muscle mass and size and bone mass in elderly women. The protein effect on bone may be partly mediated by its effects on muscle.

A natural product telomerase activator as part of a health maintenance program: metabolic and cardiovascular response.

PubMed

Harley, Calvin B; Liu, Weimin; Flom, Peter L; Raffaele, Joseph M

2013-10-01

A short average telomere length is associated with low telomerase activity and certain degenerative diseases. Studies in animals and with human cells confirm a causal mechanism for cell or tissue dysfunction triggered by critically short telomeres, suggesting that telomerase activation may be an approach to health maintenance. Previously, we reported on positive immune remodeling in humans taking a commercial health maintenance program, PattonProtocol-1, composed of TA-65® (a natural product-derived telomerase activator) and other dietary supplements. In over a 5-year period and an estimated 7000 person-years of use, no adverse events or effects have been attributed to TA-65 by physicians licensed to sell the product. Here we report on changes in metabolic markers measured at baseline (n=97-107 subjects) and every 3-6 months (n=27-59 subjects) during the first 12 months of study. Rates of change per year from baseline determined by a multi-level model were -3.72 mg/dL for fasting glucose (p=0.02), -1.32 mIU/mL for insulin (p=0.01), -13.2 and -11.8 mg/dL for total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (p=0.002, p=0.002, respectively), -17.3 and -4.2 mmHg for systolic and diastolic blood pressure (p=0.007 and 0.001, respectively), and -3.6 μmole/L homocysteine (p=0.001). In a subset of individuals with bone mineral density (BMD) measured at baseline and 12 months, density increased 2.0% in the spine (p=0.003). We conclude that in addition to apparent positive immune remodeling, PattonProtocol-1 may improve markers of metabolic, bone, and cardiovascular health.

Three-year follow-up of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D, parathyroid hormone, and bone mineral density in nursing home residents who had received 12 months of daily bread fortification with 125 μg of vitamin D₃.

PubMed

Mocanu, Veronica; Vieth, Reinhold

2013-10-11

We conducted a single-arm clinical trial in institutionalized seniors, on the effects of high-dose vitamin D3-fortified bread daily intake (clinicaltrials.gov registration NCT00789503). At 1 and 3 years after the dietary fortification was stopped, serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D), parathyroid hormone (PTH) and bone mineral density were measured in 23 of the original study subjects, aged 60-82 years who had consumed bread buns (100 g) fortified with 320 mg elemental calcium and 125 μg (5,000 IU) vitamin D3 daily for one year. At the end of the 1-year supplementation phase (receiving vitamin D3 fortified bread daily), mean (SD) serum 25(OH)D was 127.3 ± 37.8 nmol/L (baseline for this follow-up). At 1-year follow-up, the serum 25(OH)D was 64.9 ± 24.8 nmol/L (p = 0.001, vs. baseline); and at 3-year follow-up it was 28.0 ± 15.0 nmol/L (p = 0.001 vs. baseline). Serum PTH was 18.8 ± 15.6 pg/ml at baseline while at Year 3 it was 48.4 ± 18.4 pg/ml (p = 0.001 vs. baseline). Lumbar spine BMD did not change from baseline to Year 3. However, by Year 3, hip BMD had decreased (0.927 ± 0.130 g/cm² vs. 0.907 ± 0.121 g/cm², p = 0.024). Vitamin D nutritional status exhibits a long half-life in the body, and a true steady-state plateau may not even be reached 1 year after a discontinuation in dose. Furthermore, once the need for vitamin D has been established, based on a low baseline serum 25(OH)D concentrations, the appropriate action is to maintain corrective vitamin D supplementation over the long term.

Short-term effects of a high nitrate diet on nitrate metabolism in healthy individuals.

PubMed

Bondonno, Catherine P; Liu, Alex H; Croft, Kevin D; Ward, Natalie C; Puddey, Ian B; Woodman, Richard J; Hodgson, Jonathan M

2015-03-12

Dietary nitrate, through the enterosalivary nitrate-nitrite-NO pathway, can improve blood pressure and arterial stiffness. How long systemic nitrate and nitrite remain elevated following cessation of high nitrate intake is unknown. In 19 healthy men and women, the time for salivary and plasma nitrate and nitrite to return to baseline after 7 days increased nitrate intake from green leafy vegetables was determined. Salivary and plasma nitrate and nitrite was measured at baseline [D0], end of high nitrate diet [D7], day 9 [+2D], day 14 [+7D] and day 21 [+14D]. Urinary nitrite and nitrate was assessed at D7 and +14D. Increased dietary nitrate for 7 days resulted in a more than fourfold increase in saliva and plasma nitrate and nitrite (p < 0.001) measured at [D7]. At [+2D] plasma nitrite and nitrate had returned to baseline while saliva nitrate and nitrite were more than 1.5 times higher than at baseline levels. By [+7D] all metabolites had returned to baseline levels. The pattern of response was similar between men and women. Urinary nitrate and nitrate was sevenfold higher at D7 compared to +14D. These results suggest that daily ingestion of nitrate may be required to maintain the physiological changes associated with high nitrate intake.

A mechanistic multicentre, parallel group, randomised placebo-controlled trial of mesalazine for the treatment of IBS with diarrhoea (IBS-D).

PubMed

Lam, Ching; Tan, Wei; Leighton, Matthew; Hastings, Margaret; Lingaya, Melanie; Falcone, Yirga; Zhou, Xiaoying; Xu, Luting; Whorwell, Peter; Walls, Andrew F; Zaitoun, Abed; Montgomery, Alan; Spiller, Robin

2016-01-01

Immune activation has been reported in the mucosa of IBS patients with diarrhoea (IBS-D), and some small studies have suggested that mesalazine may reduce symptoms. We performed a double-blind, randomised placebo-controlled trial of 2 g mesalazine twice daily versus placebo for 3 months in patients with Rome III criteria IBS-D. Primary outcome was daily average stool frequency during weeks 11-12; secondary outcomes were abdominal pain, stool consistency, urgency and satisfactory relief of IBS symptoms. Participants were randomised after a 2-week baseline stool diary. All participants completed a 12-week stool diary and at the end of each week recorded the presence of 'satisfactory relief of IBS symptoms'. 136 patients with IBS-D (82 women, 54 men) were randomised, 10 patients withdrew from each group. Analysis by intention to treat showed the daily average stool frequency during weeks 11 and 12 were mean (SD), 2.8 (1.2) in mesalazine and 2.7 (1.9) in the placebo group with no significant group difference, (95% CI) 0.1 (-0.33 to 0.53), p=0.66. Mesalazine did not improve abdominal pain, stool consistency nor percentage with satisfactory relief compared with placebo during the last two-weeks follow-up. This study does not support any clinically meaningful benefit or harm of mesalazine compared with placebo in unselected patients with IBS-D. More precise subtyping based on underlying disease mechanisms is needed to allow more effective targeting of treatment in IBS. NCT01316718. 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/

Hemoglobin Concentration and Risk of Incident Stroke in Community-Living Adults.

PubMed

Panwar, Bhupesh; Judd, Suzanne E; Warnock, David G; McClellan, William M; Booth, John N; Muntner, Paul; Gutiérrez, Orlando M

2016-08-01

In previous observational studies, hemoglobin concentrations have been associated with an increased risk of stroke. However, these studies were limited by a relatively low number of stroke events, making it difficult to determine whether the association of hemoglobin and stroke differed by demographic or clinical factors. Using Cox proportional hazards analysis and Kaplan-Meier plots, we examined the association of baseline hemoglobin concentrations with incident stroke in the Reasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke (REGARDS) study, a cohort of black and white adults aged ≥45 years. A total of 518 participants developed stroke over a mean 7±2 years of follow-up. There was a statistically significant interaction between hemoglobin and sex (P=0.05) on the risk of incident stroke. In Cox regression models adjusted for demographic and clinical variables, there was no association of baseline hemoglobin concentration with incident stroke in men, whereas in women, the lowest (<12.4 g/dL) and highest (>14.0 g/dL) quartiles of hemoglobin were associated with higher risk of stroke when compared with the second quartile (12.4-13.2 g/dL; quartile 1: hazard ratio, 1.59; 95% confidence interval, 1.09-2.31; quartile 2: referent; quartile 3: hazard ratio, 0.91; 95% confidence interval, 0.59-1.38; quartile 4: hazard ratio, 1.59; 95% confidence interval, 1.08-2.35). Similar results were observed in models stratified by hemoglobin and sex and when hemoglobin was modeled as a continuous variable using restricted quadratic spline regression. Lower and higher hemoglobin concentrations were associated with a higher risk of incident stroke in women. No such associations were found in men. © 2016 American Heart Association, Inc.

Hierarchical cluster analysis of progression patterns in open-angle glaucoma patients with medical treatment.

PubMed

Bae, Hyoung Won; Rho, Seungsoo; Lee, Hye Sun; Lee, Naeun; Hong, Samin; Seong, Gong Je; Sung, Kyung Rim; Kim, Chan Yun

2014-04-29

To classify medically treated open-angle glaucoma (OAG) by the pattern of progression using hierarchical cluster analysis, and to determine OAG progression characteristics by comparing clusters. Ninety-five eyes of 95 OAG patients who received medical treatment, and who had undergone visual field (VF) testing at least once per year for 5 or more years. OAG was classified into subgroups using hierarchical cluster analysis based on the following five variables: baseline mean deviation (MD), baseline visual field index (VFI), MD slope, VFI slope, and Glaucoma Progression Analysis (GPA) printout. After that, other parameters were compared between clusters. Two clusters were made after a hierarchical cluster analysis. Cluster 1 showed -4.06 ± 2.43 dB baseline MD, 92.58% ± 6.27% baseline VFI, -0.28 ± 0.38 dB per year MD slope, -0.52% ± 0.81% per year VFI slope, and all "no progression" cases in GPA printout, whereas cluster 2 showed -8.68 ± 3.81 baseline MD, 77.54 ± 12.98 baseline VFI, -0.72 ± 0.55 MD slope, -2.22 ± 1.89 VFI slope, and seven "possible" and four "likely" progression cases in GPA printout. There were no significant differences in age, sex, mean IOP, central corneal thickness, and axial length between clusters. However, cluster 2 included more high-tension glaucoma patients and used a greater number of antiglaucoma eye drops significantly compared with cluster 1. Hierarchical cluster analysis of progression patterns divided OAG into slow and fast progression groups, evidenced by assessing the parameters of glaucomatous progression in VF testing. In the fast progression group, the prevalence of high-tension glaucoma was greater and the number of antiglaucoma medications administered was increased versus the slow progression group. Copyright 2014 The Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc.

Elevated serum uric acid level predicts rapid decline in kidney function

PubMed Central

Kuwabara, Masanari; Bjornstad, Petter; Hisatome, Ichiro; Niwa, Koichiro; Roncal-Jimenez, Carlos A; Andres-Hernando, Ana; Jensen, Thomas; Milagres, Tamara; Sato, Yuka; Garcia, Gabriela; Ohno, Minoru; Lanaspa, Miguel A; Johnson, Richard J

2018-01-01

Background While elevated serum uric acid level (SUA) is a recognized risk factor for chronic kidney disease (CKD), it remains unclear whether change in SUA is independently associated with change in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) over time. Accordingly, we examined the longitudinal associations between change in SUA and change in eGFR over 5-years in a general Japanese population. Methods This was a large, single-center, retrospective 5-year cohort study at St. Luke's International Hospital, Tokyo, Japan, between 2004 and 2009. We included 13,070 subjects (30–85 years) in our analyses whose data were available at 2004 and 2009. Of those, we excluded 492 subjects with eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73m2 at baseline. In addition to examining the entire cohort (n=12,578), we stratified our analyses by baseline eGFR groups; 60–90 mL/min/1.73m2, 90–120 mL/min/1.73m2, and ≥120 mL/min/1.73m2. Linear and logistic regressions models were applied to examine the relationships between baseline and change in SUA, change in eGFR and rapid eGFR decline (defined as the highest quantile of change in eGFR), adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, abdominal circumference, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and diabetes mellitus. Results After multivariable adjustments including baseline eGFR, 1 mg/dL increase in baseline SUA was associated with greater odds of developing rapid eGFR decline (OR: 1.27, 95% CI: 1.17–1.38), and 1 mg/dL increase in SUA over 5-years was associated with 3.77-fold greater odds of rapid eGFR decline (OR: 3.77, 95% CI: 3.35–4.26). Conclusions Elevated baseline SUA and increasing SUA over time were independent risk factors for rapid eGFR decline over 5-years. PMID:28285309

The association of darbepoetin alfa with hemoglobin and health-related quality of life in patients with chronic kidney disease not receiving dialysis.

PubMed

Abu-Alfa, Ali K; Sloan, Lance; Charytan, Chaim; Sekkarie, Mohamed; Scarlata, Debra; Globe, Denise; Audhya, Paul

2008-04-01

Anemia of chronic kidney disease (CKD) decreases patients' health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The objective of this subanalysis was to determine the effect of every-other-week (Q2W) darbepoetin alfa on hemoglobin (Hb) levels and HRQoL measures in subjects with CKD who are naïve to erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs). STAAR was a 52-week, multicenter, single-arm study. Subject inclusion criteria included: > or = 18 years of age and creatinine clearance < or = 70 mL/min or estimated glomerular filtration rate < or = 60 mL/min/1.73 m(2) but not receiving dialysis. Subjects included in this subanalysis were previously naïve to ESAs, had Hb < 11 g/dL, were initiated on subcutaneous Q2W darbepoetin alfa to achieve a Hb level not to exceed 12 g/dL, and had responses to at least one question on the KDQOL-CRI forms administered at baseline, week 12, and week 52. Of 911 ESA-naïve subjects enrolled in the study, 277 (30.4%) were included in this subanalysis. The majority of subanalysis subjects were Caucasian (63.2%) and/or women (54.5%). Mean Hb concentrations and all KDQOL-CRI scores improved significantly between baseline and week 12 (p < 0.0001), and were maintained until week 52. Darbepoetin alfa was well tolerated. Darbepoetin alfa initiated Q2W achieved and maintained Hb targets, and significantly improved and maintained HRQoL in study subjects with CKD. Limitations of the study must be considered when extrapolating these results to assess the benefits of treatment on HRQoL in the general CKD population.

Underground Test Area Subproject Phase I Data Analysis Task. Volume VIII - Risk Assessment Documentation Package

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

None

Volume VIII of the documentation for the Phase I Data Analysis Task performed in support of the current Regional Flow Model, Transport Model, and Risk Assessment for the Nevada Test Site Underground Test Area Subproject contains the risk assessment documentation. Because of the size and complexity of the model area, a considerable quantity of data was collected and analyzed in support of the modeling efforts. The data analysis task was consequently broken into eight subtasks, and descriptions of each subtask's activities are contained in one of the eight volumes that comprise the Phase I Data Analysis Documentation.

Ontological Problem-Solving Framework for Assigning Sensor Systems and Algorithms to High-Level Missions

PubMed Central

Qualls, Joseph; Russomanno, David J.

2011-01-01

The lack of knowledge models to represent sensor systems, algorithms, and missions makes opportunistically discovering a synthesis of systems and algorithms that can satisfy high-level mission specifications impractical. A novel ontological problem-solving framework has been designed that leverages knowledge models describing sensors, algorithms, and high-level missions to facilitate automated inference of assigning systems to subtasks that may satisfy a given mission specification. To demonstrate the efficacy of the ontological problem-solving architecture, a family of persistence surveillance sensor systems and algorithms has been instantiated in a prototype environment to demonstrate the assignment of systems to subtasks of high-level missions. PMID:22164081

Underground Test Area Subproject Phase I Data Analysis Task. Volume VII - Tritium Transport Model Documentation Package

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

None

Volume VII of the documentation for the Phase I Data Analysis Task performed in support of the current Regional Flow Model, Transport Model, and Risk Assessment for the Nevada Test Site Underground Test Area Subproject contains the tritium transport model documentation. Because of the size and complexity of the model area, a considerable quantity of data was collected and analyzed in support of the modeling efforts. The data analysis task was consequently broken into eight subtasks, and descriptions of each subtask's activities are contained in one of the eight volumes that comprise the Phase I Data Analysis Documentation.

Artificial Immune Algorithm for Subtask Industrial Robot Scheduling in Cloud Manufacturing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suma, T.; Murugesan, R.

2018-04-01

The current generation of manufacturing industry requires an intelligent scheduling model to achieve an effective utilization of distributed manufacturing resources, which motivated us to work on an Artificial Immune Algorithm for subtask robot scheduling in cloud manufacturing. This scheduling model enables a collaborative work between the industrial robots in different manufacturing centers. This paper discussed two optimizing objectives which includes minimizing the cost and load balance of industrial robots through scheduling. To solve these scheduling problems, we used the algorithm based on Artificial Immune system. The parameters are simulated with MATLAB and the results compared with the existing algorithms. The result shows better performance than existing.

Basic and applied research program. Semiannual report, July-December 1978

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

Butler, B.L.

1979-12-01

The status of research projects in the Basic and Applied Research Program at SERI is presented for the semiannual period ending December 31, 1978. The five tasks in this program are grouped into Materials Research and Development, Materials Processing and Development, Photoconversion Research, Exploratory Research, and Energy Resource and Assessment and have been carried out by personnel in the Materials, Bio/Chemical Conversion, and Energy Resource and Assessment Branches. Subtask elements in the task areas include coatings and films, polymers, metallurgy and corrosion, optical materials, surfaces and interfaces in materials research and development; photochemistry, photoelectrochemistry, and photobiology in photoconversion; thin glassmore » mirror development, silver degradation of mirrors, hail resistance of thin glass, thin glass manufacturing, cellular glass development, and sorption by desiccants in materials processing and development; and thermoelectric energy conversion, desiccant cooling, photothermal degradation, and amorphous materials in exploratory research. For each task or subtask element, the overview, scope, goals, approach, apparatus and equipment, and supporting subcontracts are presented, as applicable, in addition to the status of the projects in each task or subtask. Listing of publications and reports authored by personnel associated with the Basic and Applied Research Program and prepared or published during 1978 are also included.« less

Meat Cooking Methods and Risk of Type 2 Diabetes: Results From Three Prospective Cohort Studies.

PubMed

Liu, Gang; Zong, Geng; Wu, Kana; Hu, Yang; Li, Yanping; Willett, Walter C; Eisenberg, David M; Hu, Frank B; Sun, Qi

2018-05-01

To examine open-flame and/or high-temperature cooking (grilling/barbecuing, broiling, or roasting) and doneness preferences (rare, medium, or well done) for red meat, chicken, and fish in relation to type 2 diabetes (T2D) risk among U.S. adults who consumed animal flesh regularly (≥2 servings/week). The prospective studies included 52,752 women from the Nurses' Health Study (NHS) (followed during 1996-2012), 60,809 women from NHS II (followed during 2001-2013), and 24,679 men from the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study (HPFS) (followed during 1996-2012) who were free of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer at baseline. Incident cases of T2D were confirmed by validated supplementary questionnaires. We documented 7,895 incident cases of T2D during 1.74 million person-years of follow-up. After multivariate adjustments including baseline BMI and total consumption of red meat, chicken, and fish, higher frequency of open-flame and/or high-temperature cooking was independently associated with an elevated T2D risk. When comparing open-flame and/or high-temperature cooking >15 times/month with <4 times/month, the pooled hazard ratio (HR) (95% CI) of T2D was 1.28 (1.18, 1.39; P trend <0.001). When comparing the extreme quartiles of doneness-weighted frequency of high-temperature cooking, the pooled HR (95% CI) of T2D was 1.20 (1.12, 1.28; P trend <0.001). These associations remained significant when red meat and chicken were examined separately. In addition, estimated intake of heterocyclic aromatic amines was also associated with an increased T2D risk. Independent of consumption amount, open-flame and/or high-temperature cooking for both red meat and chicken is associated with an increased T2D risk among adults who consume animal flesh regularly. © 2018 by the American Diabetes Association.

Improvement of cognitive functions in response to a regular Nordic walking training in elderly women - A change dependent on the training experience.

PubMed

Gmiąt, A; Jaworska, J; Micielska, K; Kortas, J; Prusik, K; Prusik, K; Lipowski, M; Radulska, A; Szupryczyńska, N; Antosiewicz, J; Ziemann, E

2018-04-01

Although regular physical activity is known to benefit health of aging populations, there are still many factors, which regulate exercise-induced adaptive changes. Among many vitamin D and myokines are under consideration. We, therefore, evaluated the influence of a single session of and regular Nordic Walking (NW) training combined with vitamin D supplementation on cognitive functions and muscle strength and some elements of the amino-acid profile. Thirty-five healthy elderly women (68 ± 5 years old) from health promotion programmes took part in the study. At baseline they were divided into two groups: women, who participated in NW training for the first time (Beginners Group: BG) and women, who continued regular NW training longer than four years (Advance Group: AG). All women had a similar concentration of vitamin D (above 20 ng·ml -1 ) at baseline. The 12 weeks of NW training was supported by supplementation of vitamin D 3 (4000 IU/day). Muscle strength, serum concentrations of myokines (irisin and IL-6), brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), inflammation marker, glucose, branched amino acids and tryptophan were all assessed at baseline, 1 h after the first single training session and adequately at the end of the training programme. In addition, iron and ferritin were measured. The concentration of vitamin D 3 as well as psychological (Quality-of-Life Assessment, The Beck Depression Inventory-2) and cognitive evaluations (D2 test of attention, Trial Making Test A&B) were also performed before and after the 12-week training programme. Data were interpreted using magnitude-based inferences. According to data obtained in this study, regular NW training resulted in improvement of cognitive functions in aged women. These positive changes were accompanied by an increase of irisin and BDNF concentration (adjusted effect moderate and likely). Our data also revealed that observed reductions of glucose and tryptophan concentrations might have positively contributed to the amelioration of cognitive functions. Still, obtained results indicated that it was not the level vitamin D that modulated exercise-induced changes, but rather the long-lasting experience and being more advanced in training. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Obesity is marked by distinct functional connectivity in brain networks involved in food reward and salience.

PubMed

Wijngaarden, M A; Veer, I M; Rombouts, S A R B; van Buchem, M A; Willems van Dijk, K; Pijl, H; van der Grond, J

2015-01-01

We hypothesized that brain circuits involved in reward and salience respond differently to fasting in obese versus lean individuals. We compared functional connectivity networks related to food reward and saliency after an overnight fast (baseline) and after a prolonged fast of 48 h in lean versus obese subjects. We included 13 obese (2 males, 11 females, BMI 35.4 ± 1.2 kg/m(2), age 31 ± 3 years) and 11 lean subjects (2 males, 9 females, BMI 23.2 ± 0.5 kg/m(2), age 28 ± 3 years). Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging scans were made after an overnight fast (baseline) and after a prolonged 48 h fast. Functional connectivity of the amygdala, hypothalamus and posterior cingulate cortex (default-mode) networks was assessed using seed-based correlations. At baseline, we found a stronger connectivity between hypothalamus and left insula in the obese subjects. This effect diminished upon the prolonged fast. After prolonged fasting, connectivity of the hypothalamus with the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC) increased in lean subjects and decreased in obese subjects. Amygdala connectivity with the ventromedial prefrontal cortex was stronger in lean subjects at baseline, which did not change upon the prolonged fast. No differences in posterior cingulate cortex connectivity were observed. In conclusion, obesity is marked by alterations in functional connectivity networks involved in food reward and salience. Prolonged fasting differentially affected hypothalamic connections with the dACC and the insula between obese and lean subjects. Our data support the idea that food reward and nutrient deprivation are differently perceived and/or processed in obesity. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Alteration of carotid body chemoreflexes after neonatal intermittent hypoxia and caffeine treatment in rat pups.

PubMed

Julien, Cécile A; Joseph, Vincent; Bairam, Aida

2011-08-15

In human neonates, caffeine therapy for apnoea of prematurity, especially when associated with hypoxemia, is maintained for several weeks after birth. In the present study, we used newborn rats and whole-body plethysmography to test whether chronic exposure to neonatal caffeine treatment (NCT), alone or combined with neonatal intermittent hypoxia (n-IH) alters: (1) baseline ventilation and response to hypoxia (12% O(2), 20 min); and (2) response to acute i.p. injection of caffeine citrate (20 mg/kg) or domperidone, a peripheral dopamine D2 receptor antagonist (1 mg/kg). Four groups of rats were studied as follows: raised under normal conditions with daily gavage with water (NWT) or NCT, or exposed to n-IH (n-IH+NWT and n-IH+NCT) from postnatal days 3 to 12. In n-IH+NCT rats, baseline ventilation was higher than in the other groups. Caffeine or domperidone enhanced baseline ventilation only in NWT and n-IH+NWT rats, but neither caffeine nor domperidone affected the hypoxic ventilatory response in these groups. In n-IH+NWT rats, the response during the early phase of hypoxia (<10 min) was higher than in other groups. During the late response phase to hypoxia (20 min), ventilation was lower in n-IH+NWT and n-IH+NCT rats compared to NWT or NCT, and were not affected by caffeine or domperidone injection. NCT or caffeine injection decreased baseline apnoea frequency in all groups. These data suggest that chronic exposure to NCT alters both carotid body dopaminergic and adenosinergic systems and central regulation of breathing under baseline conditions and in response to hypoxia. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Sustaining the Control of Schistosoma mansoni in Western Côte d'Ivoire: Baseline Findings before the Implementation of a Randomized Trial

PubMed Central

Assaré, Rufin K.; Hürlimann, Eveline; Ouattara, Mamadou; N'Guessan, Nicaise A.; Tian-Bi, Yves-Nathan T.; Yapi, Ahoua; Yao, Patrick K.; Coulibaly, Jean T.; Knopp, Stefanie; N'Goran, Eliézer K.; Utzinger, Jürg

2016-01-01

We report baseline findings before the implementation of a 4-year intervention trial designed to assess the impact of three different school-based treatment schedules with praziquantel to sustain the control of intestinal schistosomiasis. The baseline survey was conducted in 75 schools of western Côte d'Ivoire previously identified with moderate Schistosoma mansoni endemicity (prevalence: 10–24% in children aged 13–14 years). Three stool samples collected over consecutive days were subjected to duplicate Kato-Katz thick smears each. A questionnaire was administered to collect village-specific information that is relevant for schistosomiasis transmission. Overall, 4,953 first graders (aged 5–8 years) and 7,011 school children (aged 9–12 years) had complete parasitologic data. The overall prevalence of S. mansoni was 5.4% among first graders and 22.1% in 9- to 12-year-old children. Open defecation was practiced in all villages. The current baseline findings will be important to better understand the dynamics of S. mansoni prevalence and intensity over the course of this trial that might be governed by village characteristics and specific treatment interventions. PMID:26598571

Evaluating the Effects of Dimensionality in Advanced Avionic Display Concepts for Synthetic Vision Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Alexander, Amy L.; Prinzel, Lawrence J., III; Wickens, Christopher D.; Kramer, Lynda J.; Arthur, Jarvis J.; Bailey, Randall E.

2007-01-01

Synthetic vision systems provide an in-cockpit view of terrain and other hazards via a computer-generated display representation. Two experiments examined several display concepts for synthetic vision and evaluated how such displays modulate pilot performance. Experiment 1 (24 general aviation pilots) compared three navigational display (ND) concepts: 2D coplanar, 3D, and split-screen. Experiment 2 (12 commercial airline pilots) evaluated baseline 'blue sky/brown ground' or synthetic vision-enabled primary flight displays (PFDs) and three ND concepts: 2D coplanar with and without synthetic vision and a dynamic multi-mode rotatable exocentric format. In general, the results pointed to an overall advantage for a split-screen format, whether it be stand-alone (Experiment 1) or available via rotatable viewpoints (Experiment 2). Furthermore, Experiment 2 revealed benefits associated with utilizing synthetic vision in both the PFD and ND representations and the value of combined ego- and exocentric presentations.

Comparing handheld and hands-free cell phone usage behaviors while driving.

PubMed

Soccolich, Susan A; Fitch, Gregory M; Perez, Miguel A; Hanowski, Richard J

2014-01-01

The goal of this study was to compare cell phone usage behaviors while driving across 3 types of cell phones: handheld (HH) cell phones, portable hands-free (PHF) cell phones, and integrated hands-free (IHF) cell phones. Naturalistic driving data were used to observe HH, PHF, and IHF usage behaviors in participants' own vehicles without any instructions or manipulations by researchers. In addition to naturalistic driving data, drivers provided their personal cell phone call records. Calls during driving were sampled and observed in naturalistically collected video. Calls were reviewed to identify cell phone type used for, and duration of, cell phone subtasks, non-cell phone secondary tasks, and other use behaviors. Drivers in the study self-identified as HH, PHF, or IHF users if they reported using that cell phone type at least 50% of the time. However, each sampled call was classified as HH, PHF, or IHF if the talking/listening subtask was conducted using that cell phone type, without considering the driver's self-reported group. Drivers with PHF or IHF systems also used HH cell phones (IHF group used HH cell phone in 53.2% of the interactions, PHF group used HH cell phone for 55.5% of interactions). Talking/listening on a PHF phone or an IHF phone was significantly longer than talking/listening on an HH phone (P <.05). HH dialing was significantly longer in duration than PHF or IHF begin/answer tasks. End phone call task for HH phones was significantly longer in duration than the end phone call task for PHF and IHF phones. Of all the non-cell phone-related secondary tasks, eating or drinking was found to occur significantly more often during IHF subtasks (0.58%) than in HH subtasks (0.15%). Drivers observed to reach for their cell phone mostly kept their cell phone in the cup holder (36.3%) or in their seat or lap (29.0% of interactions); however, some observed locations may have required drivers to move out of position. Hands-free cell phone technologies reduce the duration of cell phone visual-manual tasks compared to handheld cell phones. However, drivers with hands-free cell phone technologies available to them still choose to use handheld cell phones to converse or complete cell phone visual-manual tasks for a noteworthy portion of interactions.

Change in fasting plasma glucose and incident type 2 diabetes mellitus: results from a prospective cohort study.

PubMed

Mozaffary, Amirhossein; Asgari, Samaneh; Tohidi, Maryam; Kazempour-Ardebili, Sara; Azizi, Fereidoun; Hadaegh, Farzad

2016-05-23

To investigate the association between changes in fasting plasma glucose (FPG) values and incident type 2 diabetes (T2D) in a cohort of the Iranian population. Prospective cohort study. This study was conducted within the framework of the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (TLGS) to investigate the association between change in FPG between baseline examination (1999-2001) and the second visit (2002-2005) with incident T2D. A total of 3981 non-diabetic participants aged ≥20 years. T2D was defined if the participant was using antidiabetic drugs or if FPG was ≥7 mmol/L or if the 2 h post-challenge plasma glucose (2-hPCG) was ≥11.1 mmol/L. During a median follow-up of 6.17 years, after the second examination, 288 new cases of T2D were identified. In a multivariate Cox proportional hazard analysis using age as timescale, we presented a simple model including FPG change (HR 1.19, 95% CI 1.07 to 1.33) and baseline waist circumference (WC) (HR 1.004, 95% CI 1.001 to 1.008) with a discriminative power (C-index) of 72%. Furthermore, we showed that the highest quartile of FPG change enhanced the T2D risk to 1.65 (95% CI 1.2 to 2.27) compared with the lowest quartile (p for trend=0.004).The independent risk of FPG change resisted further adjustment with 2-hPCG change. Adding the 2-hPCG change only slightly increased the discriminative power of the model including FPG change and baseline value of WC (0.73% vs 0.72%). After the study population had been limited to those with normal fasting glucose/normal glucose tolerance, FPG change remained an independent predictor (HR 1.57, 95% CI 1.31 to 1.88). Two measurements of FPG obtained about 3 years apart can help to identify populations at risk of incident T2D independently of important traditional risk factors and their changes, including 2-hPCG change. 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/

Effect of vitamin D3 supplementation on iron status: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial among ethnic minorities living in Norway.

PubMed

Madar, Ahmed A; Stene, Lars C; Meyer, Haakon E; Brekke, Mette; Lagerløv, Per; Knutsen, Kirsten V

2016-08-09

Both vitamin D and iron deficiencies are widespread globally, and a relationship between these deficiencies has been suggested. However, there is a paucity of randomised controlled trials assessing the effect of vitamin D supplementation on iron status. We aimed to investigate whether 16 weeks of daily vitamin D3 supplementation had an effect on serum ferritin, haemoglobin, serum iron and transferrin saturation. Overall, 251 participants from South Asia, Middle East and Africa aged 18-50 years who were living in Norway were randomised to receive daily oral supplementation of 10 μg vitamin D3, 25 μg vitamin D3, or placebo for 16 weeks during the late winter. Blood samples from baseline and after 16 weeks were analysed for serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (s-25(OH) D), serum ferritin, haemoglobin and serum iron. In total, 214 eligible participants completed the intervention (86 % of those randomised). Linear regression analysis were used to test the effect of vitamin D3 supplementation combined (10 or 25 μg) and separate doses 10 or 25 μg compared to placebo on change (T2-T1) in each outcome variable adjusted for baseline s-25(OH)D values. There was no difference in change in the levels of s-ferritin (1.9 μg/L, 95 % CI: -3.2, 7.0), haemoglobin (-0.02 g/dL, 95 % CI: -0.12, 0.09), s-iron (0.4 μg/L, 95 % CI: -0.5, 1.3) or transferrin saturation (0.7 %, 95 % CI: -0.6.1, 2.0) between those receiving vitamin D3 or those receiving placebo. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D increased from 29 nmol/L at baseline to 49 nmol/L after the intervention, with little change in the placebo group. In this population of healthy ethnic minorities from South Asia, the Middle East and Africa who had low vitamin D status, 16 weeks of daily supplementation with 10 or 25 μg of vitamin D3 did not significantly affect the haemoglobin levels or other markers of iron status.

Long-term green tea extract supplementation does not affect fat absorption, resting energy expenditure, and body composition in adults.

PubMed

Janssens, Pilou L H R; Hursel, Rick; Westerterp-Plantenga, Margriet S

2015-05-01

Green tea (GT) extract may play a role in body weight regulation. Suggested mechanisms are decreased fat absorption and increased energy expenditure. We examined whether GT supplementation for 12 wk has beneficial effects on weight control via a reduction in dietary lipid absorption as well as an increase in resting energy expenditure (REE). Sixty Caucasian men and women [BMI (in kg/m²): 18-25 or >25; age: 18-50 y] were included in a randomized placebo-controlled study in which fecal energy content (FEC), fecal fat content (FFC), resting energy expenditure, respiratory quotient (RQ), body composition, and physical activity were measured twice (baseline vs. week 12). For 12 wk, subjects consumed either GT (>0.56 g/d epigallocatechin gallate + 0.28-0.45 g/d caffeine) or placebo capsules. Before the measurements, subjects recorded energy intake for 4 consecutive days and collected feces for 3 consecutive days. No significant differences between groups and no significant changes over time were observed for the measured variables. Overall means ± SDs were 7.2 ± 3.8 g/d, 6.1 ± 1.2 MJ/d, 67.3 ± 14.3 kg, and 29.8 ± 8.6% for FFC, REE, body weight, and body fat percentage, respectively. GT supplementation for 12 wk in 60 men and women did not have a significant effect on FEC, FFC, REE, RQ, and body composition. © 2015 American Society for Nutrition.

Anxiety, Depression, and Pain Symptoms: Associations With the Course of Marijuana Use and Drug Use Consequences Among Urban Primary Care Patients.

PubMed

Bertholet, Nicolas; Cheng, Debbie M; Palfai, Tibor P; Lloyd-Travaglini, Christine; Samet, Jeffrey H; Saitz, Richard

This exploratory study aims to investigate whether anxiety, depression, and pain are associated with changes in marijuana use and drug use consequences among primary care patients. In all, 331 adult primary care patients with marijuana as the only drug used were followed prospectively to investigate associations between anxiety/depression symptoms (no/minimal symptoms; anxiety or depression symptoms; symptoms of both) and pain (1-10 scale: none [0]; low [1-3]; medium [4-6]; high [7-10]) (independent variables) and substance use outcomes in regression models. These outcomes were changes (over 6 months) in primary outcomes: marijuana use days (past 30); and drug use consequences (Short Inventory of Problems-Drugs [SIP-D]); secondary outcomes-drug use risk (Alcohol, Smoking, and Substance Involvement Screening Test [ASSIST] score for drugs). At baseline, 67% reported no/minimal anxiety/depression symptoms, 16% anxiety or depression symptoms, 17% both; 14% reported no pain, 16% low, 23% medium, 47% high pain level. Mean (SD) number of marijuana use days was 16.4 (11.6), mean SIP-D 5.9 (9.0), mean ASSIST 12.5 (7.8); no significant association was found between anxiety/depression and marijuana use changes. Given the same baseline status for SIP-D and ASSIST, respectively, those with anxiety or depression had greater increases in SIP-D (adjusted mean difference [95% confidence interval] +3.26 [1.20; 5.32], P = 0.004) and borderline significant increases in ASSIST (+3.27 [-0.12; 6.65], P = 0.06) compared with those without anxiety or depression; those with both anxiety and depression had greater increases in ASSIST (+5.42 [2.05; 8.79], P = 0.003), but not SIP-D (+1.80 [-0.46; 4.06], P = 0.12). There was no significant association between pain and marijuana use and SIP-D changes. Given the same baseline ASSIST level, those with high pain level had greater increases in ASSIST (+4.89 [1.05; 8.72], P = 0.04) compared with those with no pain. In these exploratory analyses, anxiety, depression, and high pain level appear to be associated with increases in drug-related harm among primary care patients using marijuana.

Instrumentation: Nondestructive Examination for Verification of Canister and Cladding Integrity. FY2014 Status Update

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

Meyer, Ryan M.; Suter, Jonathan D.; Jones, Anthony M.

2014-09-12

This report documents FY14 efforts for two instrumentation subtasks under storage and transportation. These instrumentation tasks relate to developing effective nondestructive evaluation (NDE) methods and techniques to (1) verify the integrity of metal canisters for the storage of used nuclear fuel (UNF) and to (2) verify the integrity of dry storage cask internals.

Biomarkers and Brain Mechanisms of Gulf War Illness

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-09-01

serve as biomarkers of the disorder. 15. SUBJECT TERMS Gulf War illness, neuroinflammation, oxidative stress , mitochondrial dysfunction, magnetic...Oxidative Stress , Mitochondrial Dysfunction; Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Positron Emission Tomography Page | 5 Subtask 2: Develop complementary or...30 Major Task 3: To conduct 1H and 31P MRS studies for assessment of oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction in vivo. Assess cerebral blood

Training Effectiveness and Cost Iterative Technique (TECIT). Volume 2. Cost Effectiveness Analysis

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-07-01

Moving Tank in a Field Exercise A The task cluster identified as tank commander’s station/tank gunnery and the sub-task of firing an M250 grenade launcher...Firing Procedures, Task Number 171-126-1028. I OBJECTIVE: Given an Ml tank with crew, loaded M250 I grenade launcher, the commander’s station powered up

Information Presentation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Holden, K.L.; Boyer, J.L.; Sandor, A.; Thompson, S.G.; McCann, R.S.; Begault, D.R.; Adelstein, B.D.; Beutter, B.R.; Stone, L.S.

2009-01-01

The goal of the Information Presentation Directed Research Project (DRP) is to address design questions related to the presentation of information to the crew. The major areas of work, or subtasks, within this DRP are: 1) Displays, 2) Controls, 3) Electronic Procedures and Fault Management, and 4) Human Performance Modeling. This DRP is a collaborative effort between researchers at Johnson Space Center and Ames Research Center.

Understanding Gulf War Illness: An Integrative Modeling Approach

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-10-01

group (Task 2; Subtask1). The latest iteration of this analysis focused on n=11 animals control and n=11 DFP exposed animals without corticosterone... Groups : 1 – Control Group (Male and Female Intact) 2 – GWI Model – Cort+DFP (Male and Female OVX) 3 – Control OVX (Female) 4 – GWI Model + Enbrel...The designed protocol counts with five basic experimental groups : Group 1 (Untreated Control no toxic exposure); Group 2 (Toxic exposed, no

Evaluation of the siRNA PF-04523655 versus ranibizumab for the treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (MONET Study).

PubMed

Nguyen, Quan Dong; Schachar, Ronald A; Nduaka, Chudy I; Sperling, Marvin; Klamerus, Karen J; Chi-Burris, Katherine; Yan, Eric; Paggiarino, Dario A; Rosenblatt, Irit; Aitchison, Roger; Erlich, Shai S

2012-09-01

To evaluate the efficacy of different dosing paradigms of PF-04523655 (PF) versus ranibizumab (comparator) in subjects with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Multicenter, open-label, prospective, randomized, comparator-controlled exploratory study. A total of 151 patients with subfoveal choroidal neovascularization (CNV) secondary to neovascular AMD who were naive to AMD therapy. In this phase 2 study, patients were randomized to 1 of 5 treatment groups with equal ratio. All groups received ranibizumab 0.5 mg at baseline and (a) PF 1 mg every 4 weeks (Q4W) from week 4 to week 12; (b) PF 3 mg Q4W from week 4 to week 12; (c) PF 3 mg every 2 weeks (Q2W) from week 4 to week 12; (d) PF 1 mg + ranibizumab (combination) Q4W from baseline to week 12; and (e) ranibizumab Q4W to week 12. All study treatments were given as intravitreal injections. The primary end point was the mean change in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) from baseline at week 16; secondary end points included the percentage of patients gaining ≥ 10 and ≥ 15 letters in BCVA and mean change in retinal central subfield thickness, lesion thickness, and CNV area. At week 16, the PF 1 mg + ranibizumab combination group achieved numerically greater improvement in mean BCVA from baseline (9.5 letters) than the ranibizumab group (6.8 letters). The difference was not statistically significant. The BCVA improvement in the PF monotherapy groups was less than in the ranibizumab group. Similar trends were observed in the percentage of patients who gained ≥ 10 and ≥ 15 letters. From baseline to week 16 (last observed carried forward), the combination and ranibizumab groups had similar mean reductions in central subfield retinal thickness and total CNV area, which were greater than in all PF monotherapy groups. There were no clinically meaningful differences in reduction of lesion thickness among treatment groups. In this early, underpowered study evaluating treatments for neovascular AMD, the combination of PF with ranibizumab led to an average gain in BCVA that was more than with ranibizumab monotherapy. No safety concerns were identified. Copyright © 2012 American Academy of Ophthalmology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Dietary vitamin D dose-response in healthy children 2 to 8 y of age: a 12-wk randomized controlled trial using fortified foods.

PubMed

Brett, Neil R; Lavery, Paula; Agellon, Sherry; Vanstone, Catherine A; Maguire, Jonathon L; Rauch, Frank; Weiler, Hope A

2016-01-01

Vitamin D is fundamental for bone health. A high proportion of Canadian 2- to 8-y-olds do not meet the Estimated Average Requirement (EAR) of 400 IU/d. The objective was to determine whether vitamin D intakes consistent with the EAR or Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA), through fortification of additional dairy products, would result in higher vitamin D status in young children. Participants aged 2-8 y (n = 77; Montreal, Canada) were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 dietary vitamin D targets (control; EAR: 400 IU/d; or RDA: 600 IU/d) for 12 wk (January to April 2014). Anthropometric measurements, demographic characteristics, dietary intakes, fasting serum parathyroid hormone, 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D], and ionized calcium were compared by using mixed-model ANOVA. Participants' mean ± SD age was 5.1 ± 1.9 y; 54.5% were boys with body mass index z scores of 0.50 ± 0.85. Compliance was 85% overall. No differences were observed in baseline dietary vitamin D intakes or serum 25(OH)D. At 12 wk, the EAR and RDA groups had significantly higher vitamin D intakes [median (IQR): control, 227 (184-305) IU/d; EAR, 410 (363-516) IU/d; and RDA, 554 (493-653) IU/d; P < 0.05] and serum 25(OH)D concentrations (control: 55.8 ± 12.3 nmol/L; EAR: 64.1 ± 10.0 nmol/L; and RDA: 63.7 ± 12.4 nmol/L; P < 0.05) than the control group. Ninety-six percent of children in the EAR and RDA groups and 67% of the control group had 25(OH)D concentrations ≥50 nmol/L. Increasing the vitamin D intakes of young children through fortification of alternative dairy products results in significantly higher serum concentrations of 25(OH)D and a significantly greater proportion of children with serum 25(OH)D ≥50 nmol/L during periods of minimal ultraviolet B radiation exposure. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT02097160 and had Health Canada Temporary Marketing Authorization Letters for both products (TM-13-0432 and TM-13-0433). © 2016 American Society for Nutrition.

Relationship between vitamin D, parathyroid hormone, bone mineral density, fracture and antiretroviral therapy in HIV patients.

PubMed

Das, Satyajit; Bopitya, Shyamalie; Taha, Huda; David, Loay

2014-01-01

Vitamin D deficiency and abnormal bone mineral density (BMD) have been reported in HIV patients. We aimed to find out the effects of antiretroviral therapy (ART) on serum vitamin D, parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels, BMD changes and fragility fracture rates in HIV patients. We collected information about baseline demography, risk factors for fracture, viral load (VL), CD4 count, serum 25-OH vitamin D (n=357), PTH (n=277), phosphate, ionised calcium, creatinine and BMD of spine and hip by DEXA scan (hologic, n=142). Statistical analysis used one-way ANOVA followed by Dunn's multiple comparison tests. Results Table 1: Total 357 patients, mean age 41.1 (+/- 11.9) years, 249 (66%) black African, 197(52%) females, baseline CD4 count 451 (+/- 184) cells/dl, VL 1.4 log (+/- 1.2) copies/ml, duration of ART 52 (+/- 35) months were included in the analysis. Serum vitamin D was 15.3 (+/- 11.0) ng/ml, PTH (intact) 5.5 (+/- 3.9) pmol/l, corrected calcium 2.13 (+/- 0.9), phosphate 1.0 (+/- 0.2) and creatinine was 73.4 (+/- 21.1) mmol/l. Ninety four (66%) patients had abnormal BMD (T-score of spine or hip or both ≤ 1.0). Vitamin D levels were deficient (< 30 ng/ml) in 297 (78.7%) and PTH was high (>4.1 pmol/l) in 177 (64.8%) patients. Of 91 (30.9%) patients who had vitamin D levels below 10.0 ng/mL, PTH was high in 70 (n=91, 76.9%) and abnormal BMD in 50 (n=61, 75.4%) patients. Thirteen patients (3.2%) had possible fragility fractures. Tenofovir (TDF) users had higher PTH (P=0.002) and lower BMD of spine (0.01) and hip (0.002) and efavirenz (EFV) users had lower vitamin D (0.01) levels. On multivariate analysis including all significant variables, female sex (OR 1.5 CI 1.3-5.9), age over 40 years (OR 1.2 CI 0.9-5.1) and TDF use (OR 1.9 CI 1.6-6.9) were associated with abnormal BMD of hip but not spine. Female patients over 40 years old on tenofovir containing regimens may have increased risk of BMD loss from hip. Whether Vitamin D replacement will prevent further bone loss needs further work.

Bioconversion of plant carotenoids to vitamin A in Filipino school-aged children varies inversely with vitamin A status.

PubMed

Ribaya-Mercado, J D; Solon, F S; Solon, M A; Cabal-Barza, M A; Perfecto, C S; Tang, G; Solon, J A; Fjeld, C R; Russell, R M

2000-08-01

It is important to understand the factors affecting strategies to improve the vitamin A status of populations. We reported previously that a 3-d deuterated-retinol-dilution (DRD) procedure might be used to indicate total body stores of vitamin A. We studied the ability of 3-d DRD to detect changes in the body pool size of vitamin A and the effect of vitamin A status on the bioconversion of plant carotenoids to vitamin A. Two separate, unrelated studies were conducted in 7-13-y-old children with poor or marginal serum retinol concentrations (0.32-0.93 micromol/L) by feeding them controlled diets daily for 5 d/wk for 12 wk, after treatment with an anthelmintic drug. In school 1 (n = 27), lunch and 2 snacks that were provided at school contained 2258 retinol equivalents/d (mostly from orange fruit and vegetables) and 5.3 MJ/d from 33 g fat, 37 g protein, and 209 g carbohydrates; in school 2 (n = 25), 2 snacks provided 2.5 MJ/d from 9.4 g fat, 9.6 g protein, and 119 g carbohydrates, but no carotenes. In school 1, mean serum beta-carotene increased from 0.12 to 0.62 micromol/L (P = 0.0001) and serum retinol increased from 0.68 to 1. 06 micromol/L (P = 0.0001). In school 2, serum beta-carotene increased from 0.06 to 0.11 micromol/L (P = 0.0001) and serum retinol increased from 0.66 to 0.86 micromol/L (P = 0.0001). In school 1, but not school 2, improvement in serum retinol varied inversely with baseline retinol (r = -0.38, P = 0.048). In both schools, 3-d DRD showed reductions in the ratio of serum deuterated to nondeuterated retinol (D:H retinol) postintervention, denoting improvements in vitamin A status; the higher D:H retinol (ie, the poorer the status) at baseline, the greater the reduction in D:H retinol postintervention (school 1: r = -0.99, P = 0.0001; school 2: r = -0.89, P = 0.0001). Three-day DRD can detect changes in the body pool size of vitamin A, although a predictive equation to quantitate total body stores of vitamin A with the use of 3-d data needs to be developed. Bioconversion of plant carotenoids to vitamin A varies inversely with vitamin A status; improvement in status after dietary interventions is strongly influenced by total body stores of vitamin A and is influenced little or not at all by serum retinol.

A Randomized Clinical Trial of Family Therapy in Juvenile Drug Court

PubMed Central

Dakof, Gayle A.; Henderson, Craig E.; Rowe, Cynthia L.; Boustani, Maya; Greenbaum, Paul E.; Wang, Wei; Hawes, Samuel; Linares, Clarisa; Liddle, Howard A.

2016-01-01

The objective of this article is to examine the effectiveness of 2 theoretically different treatments delivered in juvenile drug court—family therapy represented by multidimensional family therapy (MDFT) and group-based treatment represented by adolescent group therapy (AGT)—on offending and substance use. Intent-to-treat sample included 112 youth enrolled in juvenile drug court (primarily male [88%], and Hispanic [59%] or African American [35%]), average age 16.1 years, randomly assigned to either family therapy (n = 55) or group therapy (n = 57). Participants were assessed at baseline and 6, 12, 18 and 24 months following baseline. During the drug court phase, youth in both treatments showed significant reduction in delinquency (average d = .51), externalizing symptoms (average d = 2.32), rearrests (average d = 1.22), and substance use (average d = 4.42). During the 24-month follow-up, family therapy evidenced greater maintenance of treatment gains than group-based treatment for externalizing symptoms (d = 0.39), commission of serious crimes (d = .38), and felony arrests (d = .96). There was no significant difference between the treatments with respect to substance use or misdemeanor arrests. The results suggest that family therapy enhances juvenile drug court outcomes beyond what can be achieved with a nonfamily based treatment, especially with respect to what is arguably the primary objective of juvenile drug courts: reducing criminal behavior and rearrests. More research is needed on the effectiveness of juvenile drug courts generally and on whether treatment type and family involvement influence outcomes. PMID:25621927

Baseline and 1-year interim follow-up assessment of Japanese patients initiating insulin therapy who were enrolled in the cardiovascular risk evaluation in people with type 2 diabetes on insulin therapy study: an international, multicenter, observational study.

PubMed

Kawamori, Ryuzo; Node, Koichi; Hanafusa, Toshiaki; Atsumi, Yoshihito; Naito, Yusuke; Oka, Yoshitomo

2013-09-08

The Cardiovascular Risk Evaluation in people with type 2 Diabetes on Insulin Therapy (CREDIT) study is an international, multicenter, observational study designed to assess metabolic parameters and cardiovascular risk of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) on insulin therapy. The present report summarizes results at baseline and 1-year follow-up for the cohort of Japanese patients. Male and female patients (n = 511), aged >40 years, with T2DM for >1 year, treated with insulin therapy for ≥1 month and <6 months were eligible for participation in the study. Glycemic and lipid parameters, duration of diabetes, diabetic complications, oral antidiabetic medications, and all hypoglycemic episodes were recorded. Effectiveness was assessed based on changes in clinical parameters and attainment of target HbA1c levels. Safety was evaluated based on episodes of hypoglycemia and weight gain. At baseline, the mean ± SD duration of diabetes was 11.8 ± 8.8 years. Microvascular and macrovascular diabetic complications were present in 83.4% and 25.1% of patients, respectively. At the 1-year follow-up, significant improvements were observed in mean HbA1c (10.3 ± 2.0% vs. 7.5 ± 1.3%, P < .001), fasting plasma glucose (217.3 ± 80.8 mg/dL vs. 139.0 ± 48.7 mg/dL, P < .001), and postprandial plasma glucose levels (296.1 ± 96.0 mg/dL vs. 178.2 ± 68.6 mg/dL, P < .001) compared with baseline. Mean total cholesterol (P < .001), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (P < .001), triglycerides (P < .01), and diastolic blood pressure (P < .01) also significantly decreased. Good glycemic control (HbA1c < 7.0%) was achieved in 40% of patients at the 1-year follow-up. Glycemic control tended to be better in patients with lower baseline HbA1c levels (P < .01). Patients with a shorter duration of diabetes were more likely to achieve glycemic control and discontinue insulin for diabetes control at the 1-year follow-up (P < .05 for trend). Symptomatic hypoglycemic episodes occurred in 21.8% of patients over 6 to 12 months. Our results suggest that insulin treatment is an effective and safe therapeutic option in Japanese patients with T2DM, and earlier insulin initiation might be associated with better glycemic control.

The Role of Adenosine A2BR in Metastatic Melanoma

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-07-01

100% complete. ACURO approval to perform animal studies was obtained July 2016. Specific Aim 1, Subtask 2: 100% complete. Use CRISPR /Cas9 technology...immune cell interactions, the first objective was to use the CRISPR Cas9 system to knock out A2BR expression in melanoma cell lines. Melanoma cell lines...and sgRNA3 to work but sgRNA2 would not be as efficient. We considered commercially available constructs to potentially improve the CRISPR knock

Interrelationship Between Alcohol Intake and Endogenous Sex-Steroid Hormones on Diabetes Risk in Postmenopausal Women.

PubMed

Rohwer, Rachelle D; Liu, Simin; You, Nai-Chieh; Buring, Julie E; Manson, JoAnn E; Song, Yiqing

2015-01-01

We examined whether circulating concentrations of sex hormones, including estradiol, testosterone, sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), were associated with alcohol intake or mediated the alcohol-type 2 diabetes (T2D) association. Among women not using hormone replacement therapy and free of baseline cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes in the Women's Health Study, 359 incident cases of T2D and 359 matched controls were chosen during 10 years of follow-up. Frequent alcohol intake (≥1 drink/day) was positively and significantly associated with higher plasma estradiol concentrations in an age-adjusted model (β = 0.14, 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.03, 0.26), compared to rarely/never alcohol intake. After adjusting for additional known covariates, this alcohol-estradiol association remained significant (β = 0.19, 95% CI, 0.07, 0.30). Testosterone (β = 0.13, 95% CI, -0.05, 0.31), SHBG (β = 0.07, 95% CI, -0.07, 0.20), and DHEAS (β = 0.14, 95% CI, -0.04, 0.31) showed positive associations without statistical significance. Estradiol alone or in combination with SHBG appeared to influence the observed protective association between frequent alcohol consumption and T2D risk, with a 12%-21% reduction in odds ratio in the multivariate-adjusted models. Our cross-sectional analysis showed positive associations between alcohol intake and endogenous estradiol concentrations. Our prospective data suggested that baseline concentrations of estradiol, with or without SHBG, might influence the alcohol-T2D association in postmenopausal women.

Effects of adenosine and defibrotide adjunct to a standard crystalloid cardioplegic solution.

PubMed

Mantovani, V; Mariscalco, G; Borsani, P; Tenconi, S; Bruno, V D; Leva, C; Ferrarese, S; Sala, A

2005-06-01

Adenosine has many actions potentially useful as adjunct to a cardioplegia. Defibrotide was recently shown to have protective effects during cardiac arrest. The aim of this study was to compare these 2 substances to delineate their profile of action in the setting of cardioplegic arrest. A Langendorff model for isolated rat hearts was employed: 3 groups of 8 hearts each were used, respectively with plain St. Thomas cardioplegia as control (group C), and the same solution added with adenosine (group A) or defibrotide (group D). The hearts had a baseline perfusion for 30 minutes with Krebs-Henseleit solution at 37 degrees C, cardioplegia administration for 3 minutes, then 30 minutes of ischemia without any perfusion and finally 30 minutes of reperfusion with Krebs-Henseleit solution at 37 degrees C. The time to attain heart arrest was 20% shorter in group A, but this difference did not reach statistical significance (A: 13.6+/-1.5; D: 16.8+/-2.7; C: 17.3+/-2.2 s). The heart rate during reperfusion in group A was almost identical to baseline, while in both group C and D it was significantly lower (A: 101%, D: 93.4%, C: 82.4%, p<0.01).A and D decreased significantly the release of creatine phospokinase compared to group C (p=0.006). Lactate dehydrogenase release was lower in both treatment groups, although statistical significance was not reached. Peak positive dP/dT decreased more in controls during reperfusion (A: -23+/-6%, D: -17+/-5%, C: -31+/-5%, p=ns). Negative dP/dT was significantly worse in controls compared to both treatments (A: -19+/-6%, D: -12+/-5%, C: -34+/-7%, p=0.035). Both adenosine and defibrotide have protective effects in an isolated model of cardioplegic arrest. Adenosine is significantly more active on heart rate while defibrotide is more active on contractily. Further studies are justified in order to test the combination of these 2 drugs.

Plasma D-dimer as a predictor of the progression of abdominal aortic aneurysm.

PubMed

Vele, E; Kurtcehajic, A; Zerem, E; Maskovic, J; Alibegovic, E; Hujdurovic, A

2016-11-01

Essentials D-dimer could provide important information about abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) progression. The greatest diameter of the infrarenal aorta and the value of plasma D-dimer were determined. AAA progression is correlated with increasing plasma D-dimer levels. The increasing value of plasma D-dimer could be a predictor of aneurysm progression. Background The natural course of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is mostly asymptomatic and unpredictable. D-dimer could provide potentially important information about subsequent AAA progression. Objectives The aims of this study were to establish the relationship between the progression of an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) and plasma D-dimer concentration over a 12-month period and determine the value of plasma D-dimer in patients with sub-aneurysmal aortic dilatation. Patients/Methods This was a prospective observational study that involved 33 patients with an AAA, 30 patients with sub-aneurysmal aortic dilatation and 30 control subjects. The greatest diameter of the infrarenal aorta, which was assessed by ultrasound, and the value of plasma D-dimer were determined for all subjects at baseline assessment, as well as after 12 months for those with an AAA. Results A positive correlation was found between the diameter of an AAA and plasma D-dimer concentration at the baseline and the control measurement stages. There was a strong positive correlation between AAA progression and increasing plasma D-dimer concentration over a 12-month period. Among patients with sub-aneurysmal aortic dilatation (n = 30), the value of plasma D-dimer was higher compared with matched controls (n = 30). Conclusions There is a strongly positive correlation between AAA progression and increasing plasma D-dimer concentration. The value of plasma D-dimer is higher in patients with sub-aneurysmal aortic dilatation than in control subjects. © 2016 International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis.

Baseline NS5A resistance associated substitutions may impair DAA response in real-world hepatitis C patients.

PubMed

Carrasco, Itzíar; Arias, Ana; Benítez-Gutiérrez, Laura; Lledó, Gemma; Requena, Silvia; Cuesta, Miriam; Cuervas-Mons, Valentín; de Mendoza, Carmen

2018-03-01

Oral DAA have demonstrated high efficacy as treatment of hepatitis C. However, the presence of resistance-associated substitutions (RAS) at baseline has occasionally been associated with impaired treatment response. Herein, we examined the impact of baseline RAS at the HCV NS5A gene region on treatment response in a real-life setting. All hepatitis C patients treated with DAA including NS5A inhibitors at our institution were retrospectively examined. The virus NS5A gene was analyzed using population sequencing at baseline and after 24 weeks of completing therapy in all patients that failed. All changes recorded at positions 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 58, 62, 92, and 93 were considered. A total of 166 patients were analyzed. HCV genotypes were as follows: G1a (31.9%), G1b (48.2%), G3 (10.2%), and G4 (9.6%). Overall, 69 (41.6%) patients were coinfected with HIV and 46.7% had advanced liver fibrosis (Metavir F3-F4). Sixty (36.1%) patients had at least one RAS at baseline, including M28A/G/T (5), Q30X (12), L31I/F/M/V (6), T58P/S (25), Q/E62D (1), A92 K (7), and Y93C/H (15). Overall, 4.8% had two or more RAS, being more frequent in G4 (12.5%) followed by G1b (6.3%) and G1a (1.9%). Of 10 (6%) patients that failed DAA therapy, five had baseline NS5A RAS. No association was found for specific baseline RAS, although changes at position 30 were more frequent in failures than cures (22.2% vs 6.4%, P = 0.074). Moreover, the presence of two or more RAS at baseline was more frequent in failures (HR: 7.2; P = 0.029). Upon failure, six patients showed emerging RAS, including Q30C/H/R (3), L31M (1), and Y93C/H (2). Baseline NS5A RAS are frequently seen in DAA-naïve HCV patients. Two or more baseline NS5A RAS were found in nearly 5% and were significantly associated to DAA failure. Therefore, baseline NS5A testing should be considered when HCV treatment is planned with NS5A inhibitors. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Vitamin D deficiency is associated with functional decline and falls in frail elderly women despite supplementation.

PubMed

Kotlarczyk, M P; Perera, S; Ferchak, M A; Nace, D A; Resnick, N M; Greenspan, S L

2017-04-01

We examined the impact of daily supplementation on vitamin D deficiency, function, and falls in female long-term care residents. Initial vitamin D deficiency was associated with greater functional decline and increased fall risk despite guideline-recommended supplementation, highlighting the importance of preventing vitamin D deficiency in frail elderly. Institute of Medicine (IOM) guidelines recommend 800 IU vitamin D daily for older adults and maintaining serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH) D] above 20 ng/ml for optimal skeletal health. The adequacy of IOM guidelines for sustaining function and reducing falls in frail elderly is unknown. Female long-term care residents aged ≥65 enrolled in an osteoporosis clinical trial were included in this analysis (n = 137). Participants were classified based on baseline 25(OH) D levels as deficient (<20 ng/ml, n = 26), insufficient (20-30 ng/ml, n = 40), or sufficient (>30 ng/ml, n = 71). Deficient women were provided initial vitamin D repletion (50,000 IU D 3 weekly for 8 weeks). All were supplemented with 800 IU vitamin D 3 daily for 24 months. Annual functional assessments included Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), Instrumental ADL (IADL), physical performance test (PPT), gait speed, cognition (SPMSQ), and mental health (PHQ-9). We used linear mixed models for analysis of functional measures and logistic regression for falls. Daily supplementation maintained 25(OH) D levels above 20 ng/ml in 95% of participants. All groups demonstrated functional decline. Women initially deficient had a greater decline in physical function at 12 (IADL -2.0 ± 0.4, PPT -3.1 ± 0.7, both p < 0.01) and 24 months (IADL -2.5 ± 0.6, ADL -2.5 ± 0.6, both p < 0.01), a larger increase in cognitive deficits at 12 months (1.7 ± 0.4: p = 0.01) and more fallers (88.5%, p = 0.04) compared to those sufficient at baseline, despite supplementation to sufficient levels. IOM guidelines may not be adequate for frail elderly. Further study of optimal 25(OH) D levels for maintaining function and preventing falls is needed.

Febuxostat for treating allopurinol-resistant hyperuricemia in patients with chronic kidney disease.

PubMed

Sakai, Yukinao; Otsuka, Tomoyuki; Ohno, Dai; Murasawa, Tsuneo; Sato, Naoki; Tsuruoka, Shuichi

2014-03-01

Availability of the novel xanthine oxidase inhibitor febuxostat, which has multiple excretion pathways, enables investigation of the significance of serum uric acid control on renal function in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). This was an exploratory, retrospective, observational study conducted at a single Japanese center. Serum uric acid concentrations and serum creatinine levels in the 6 months before and after the start of febuxostat treatment were collected for CKD patients switched from allopurinol after failing to achieve serum uric acid concentrations ≤6.0 mg/dL. Evaluable data were available for 60 patients, 67% of whom had advanced CKD (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73 m2). Mean dose of febuxostat was 15.9 (± 8) mg/day. Mean serum uric acid concentration decreased from 8.4 (±1.4) mg/dL at baseline to 6.2 (±1.2) mg/dL at 6 months; 47.5% of patients achieved a level ≤6.0 mg/dL. The change from baseline in eGFR was positive at all time points during febuxostat treatment and the increase of 2.3 (±5.6) mL/min/1.73 m2 at 6 months was significant (p = 0.0027). Whereas the eGFR slope was negative during allopurinol treatment, it became positive after the switch to febuxostat. The change in eGFR slope before and after febuxostat treatment was significant for all patients (p < 0.01), for male patients (p < 0.05), and for patients with a baseline eGFR of <15 mL/min/1.73 m2 (p < 0.05). In patients with CKD, febuxostat reduces serum uric acid concentrations effectively and may suppress the progressive decline in renal function.

Effects of a New Nutraceutical Formulation (Berberine, Red Yeast Rice and Chitosan) on Non-HDL Cholesterol Levels in Individuals with Dyslipidemia: Results from a Randomized, Double Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study

PubMed Central

Spigoni, Valentina; Antonini, Monica; Micheli, Maria Maddalena; Fantuzzi, Federica; Fratter, Andrea; Pellizzato, Marzia; Derlindati, Eleonora; Zavaroni, Ivana; Bonadonna, Riccardo C.; Dei Cas, Alessandra

2017-01-01

Increased non high-density lipoprotein (HDL)/low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels are independent risk factors for cardiovascular (CV) mortality with no documented threshold. A new combination of nutraceuticals (berberine 200 mg, monacolin K 3 mg, chitosan 10 mg and coenzyme Q 10 mg) with additive lipid-lowering properties has become available. The aim of the study is to test the efficacy of the nutraceutical formulation (one daily) in lowering non-HDL cholesterol vs. placebo at 12 weeks in individuals with non-HDL-cholesterol levels ≥160 mg/dL. 39 subjects (age 52 ± 11 years; 54% females; body mass index 27 ± 4 kg/m2) were randomized (3:1) in a double blind phase II placebo-controlled study. At baseline, 4 and 12 weeks main clinical/biohumoral parameters, pro-inflammatory cytokines, (gut)-hormones, proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) levels and endothelial progenitor cell (EPC) number were assessed. Baseline characteristics were comparable in the two groups. The intervention significantly decreased non-HDL cholesterol (−30 ± 20 mg/dL; p = 0.012), LDL cholesterol (−31 ± 18 mg/dL, p = 0.011) and apolipoprotein (Apo) B (−14 ± 12 mg/dL, p = 0.030) levels compared to the placebo. Pro-inflammatory, hormonal, PCSK9 and EPC levels remained stable throughout the study in both groups. The intervention was well tolerated. Three adverse events occurred: Epstein Barr virus infection, duodenitis and asymptomatic but significant increase in creatine phosphokinase (following intense physical exercise) which required hospitalization. The tested nutraceutical formulation may represent a possible therapeutic strategy in dyslipidemic individuals in primary prevention. PMID:28704936

The influence of academic examinations on energy and nutrient intake in male university students.

PubMed

Barker, Margo E; Blain, Richard J; Russell, Jean M

2015-09-25

Taking examinations is central to student experience at University and may cause psychological stress. Although stress is recognised to impact on food intake, the effects of undertaking examinations on students' dietary intake have not been well characterised. The purpose of this study was to assess how students' energy and nutrient intake may alter during examination periods. The study design was a within-subject comparison of students' energy and nutrient intake during an examination period contrasted with that outside an examination period (baseline). A total of 20 male students from the University of Sheffield completed an automated photographic 4-d dietary record alongside four 24-h recalls in each time period. Daily energy and nutrient intake was estimated for each student by time period and change in energy and nutrient intake calculated. Intakes at baseline were compared to UK dietary recommendations. Cluster analysis categorised students according to their change in energy intake between baseline and the examination period. Non-parametric statistical tests identified differences by cluster. Baseline intakes did not meet recommendations for energy, non-milk extrinsic sugars, non-starch polysaccharide and sodium. Three defined clusters of students were identified: Cluster D who decreased daily energy intake by 12.06 MJ (n = 5), Cluster S who had similar energy intakes (n = 13) and Cluster I who substantially increased energy intake by 6.37 MJ (n = 2) between baseline and examination period. There were statistically significant differences (all p < 0.05) in change in intake of protein, carbohydrate, calcium and sodium between clusters. Cluster D recorded greater energy, carbohydrate and protein intakes than Cluster I at baseline. The majority of students were dietary resilient. Students who demonstrated hypophagia in the examination period had a high energy and nutrient intake at baseline, conversely those who showed hyperphagia had a low energy and nutrient intake. These patterns require confirmation in studies including women, but if confirmed, there is need to address some students' poor food choice especially during examinations.

[Can the treatment with L-carnitine improve the inflammation in chronic hemodialysis patients?].

PubMed

Grazi, G; Meriggioli, M; Donati, G

2004-01-01

Inflammation in patients on chronic hemodialysis (HD) is related to malnutrition and atherosclerosis; anemia is also often present in these patients. It has been demonstrated that l-carnitina treatment, in addition to reducing the need for erythropoietin (EPO), improves nutritional parameters and cardiac performance. To evaluate the effect of l-carnitine on the inflammatory pathology in patients on chronic HD, we studied 11 patients with no sure signs of malnutrition, flogistic and infective pathologies and with C-reactive protein (CRP) <2 mg/dL. We evaluated at baseline, after 6 and 12 months CRP, serum albumin, hemoglobin (Hb),nPCR and EPO weekly requirement. We observed a reduction in CRP (from 0.88 +/- 0.65 to 0.42 +/- 0.17 mg/dL after 6 months and to 0.50 + 0.36 mg/dL after 12 months), an increase in serum albumin (from 10.9 +/- 1.23 to 2.08 +/- 1.88 and to 11.8 +/- 1.15 g/dL) and an increase in nPCR (from 0.96 +/- 0.09 to 1.15 +/- 0.2 and to 1.16 +/- 0.18 g/kg/die); EPO weekly requirement decreased (from 7363 +/- 2941 to 5909 +/- 3207 units after 6 months and to 5363 +/- 3139 units after 12 months). These results seem to underline a positive effect of l-carnitine on the inflammatory pathology of patients on chronic hemodialytic treatment.

Micro-Devices Using Resistance Change Materials (MODERN Materials)

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-03-07

subcontractors/co-PIs on this program Taskl; subtaskl Design of micro-devices based on resistance change materials Taskl; subtask2 Fabrication and process...currently valid OMB control number. PLEASE DO NOT RETURN YOUR FORM TO THE ABOVE ADDRESS. 1. REPORT DATE ( DD -MM-YYYY) 07/03/2014 2. REPORT TYPE Final...Technical Report 3. DATES COVERED (From Jan 2013-May 2014 To) 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE Micro Devices based on Resistance Change Materials 5a

Nordic Walking Training Causes a Decrease in Blood Cholesterol in Elderly Women Supplemented with Vitamin D.

PubMed

Prusik, Krzysztof; Kortas, Jakub; Prusik, Katarzyna; Mieszkowski, Jan; Jaworska, Joanna; Skrobot, Wojciech; Lipinski, Marcin; Ziemann, Ewa; Antosiewicz, Jedrzej

2018-01-01

Different studies have demonstrated that regular exercise can induce changes in the lipid profile, but results remain inconclusive. Available data suggest that correction of vitamin D deficiency can improve the lipid profile. In this study, we have hypothesized that Nordic Walking training will improve lipid profile in elderly women supplemented with vitamin D. A total of 109 elderly women (68 ± 5.12 years old) took part in the study. First group [experimental group (EG): 35 women] underwent 12 weeks of Nordic Walking (NW) training combined with vitamin D supplementation (4,000 IU/day), second group [supplementation group (SG): 48 women] was only supplemented with vitamin D (4,000 IU/day), and third group [control group (CG): 31 women] was not subject to any interventions. Blood analysis of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and 25-OH-D 3 was performed at baseline and after the 12 weeks of NW training. Additionally, a battery of field tests specifically developed for older adults was used to assess the components of functional fitness. The same blood analysis was repeated for the EG 6 months after the main experiment. After 12 weeks of NW training and vitamin D supplementation, in the EG a decrease in TC, LDL-C, and TG was observed. In the SG, no changes in the lipid profile were observed, whereas in the CG an increase in the HDL-C level was noticed. Positive physical fitness changes were only observed in the EG. Our obtained data confirmed baseline assumption that regular exercise induces positive alternations in lipid profile in elderly women supported by supplementation of vitamin D.

Cholecalciferol treatment to reduce blood pressure in older patients with isolated systolic hypertension: the VitDISH randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Witham, Miles D; Price, Rosemary J G; Struthers, Allan D; Donnan, Peter T; Messow, Claudia-Martina; Ford, Ian; McMurdo, Marion E T

2013-10-14

Observational data link low 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels to both prevalent blood pressure and incident hypertension. No clinical trial has yet examined the effect of vitamin D supplementation in isolated systolic hypertension, the most common pattern of hypertension in older people. To test whether high-dose, intermittent cholecalciferol supplementation lowers blood pressure in older patients with isolated systolic hypertension. Parallel group, double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized trial. Primary care clinics and hospital clinics. Patients 70 years and older with isolated systolic hypertension (supine systolic blood pressure >140 mm Hg and supine diastolic blood pressure <90 mm Hg) and baseline 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels less than 30 ng/mL were randomized into the trial from June 1, 2009, through May 31, 2011. A total of 100,000 U of oral cholecalciferol or matching placebo every 3 months for 1 year. Difference in office blood pressure, 24-hour blood pressure, arterial stiffness, endothelial function, cholesterol level, insulin resistance, and b-type natriuretic peptide level during 12 months. A total of 159 participants were randomized (mean age, 77 years). Mean baseline office systolic blood pressure was 163/78 mm Hg. Mean baseline 25-hydroxyvitamin D level was 18 ng/mL. 25-Hydroxyvitamin D levels increased in the treatment group compared with the placebo group (+8 ng/mL at 1 year, P < .001). No significant treatment effect was seen for mean (95% CI) office blood pressure (−1 [−6 to 4]/−2 [−4 to 1] mm Hg at 3 months and 1 [−2 to 4]/0 [−2 to 2] mm Hg overall treatment effect). No significant treatment effect was evident for any of the secondary outcomes (24-hour blood pressure, arterial stiffness, endothelial function, cholesterol level, glucose level, and walking distance). There was no excess of adverse events in the treatment group, and the total number of falls was nonsignificantly lower in the group receiving vitamin D (36 vs 46, P = .24). Vitamin D supplementation did not improve blood pressure or markers of vascular health in older patients with isolated systolic hypertension. isrctn.org Identifier: ISRCTN92186858.

Effects of Tai Chi exercise on blood pressure and plasma levels of nitric oxide, carbon monoxide and hydrogen sulfide in real-world patients with essential hypertension.

PubMed

Pan, Xiaogui; Zhang, Yi; Tao, Sai

2015-01-01

Objective was to investigate the effects of Tai Chi exercise on nitric oxide (NO), carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) levels, and blood pressure (BP) in patients with essential hypertension (EH). EH patients were assigned to the Tai Chi exercise group (HTC, n = 24), and hypertension group (HP, n = 16) by patients' willingness. Healthy volunteers matched for age and gender were recruited as control (NP, n = 16). HTC group performed Tai Chi (60 min/d, 6 d/week) for 12 weeks. Measurements (blood glucose, cholesterol, NO, CO, H2S and BP) were obtained at week 0, 6, and 12. SBP, MAP, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels decreased, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels increased by week 12 in the HTC group (all p < 0.05 versus baseline). Plasma NO, CO, and H2S levels in the HTC group were increased after 12 weeks (all p < 0.05 versus baseline). SBP, DBP and MAP levels were significantly lower in the HTC than in the HP group (all p < 0.05). However, no changes were observed in the HP and NP groups. Correlations were observed between changes in SBP and changes in NO, CO and H2S (r = -0.45, -0.51 and -0.46, respectively, all p < 0.05), and between changes in MAP and changes in NO, CO and H2S (r = -0.36, -0.45 and -0.42, respectively, all p < 0.05). In conclusion, Tai Chi exercise seems to have beneficial effects on BP and gaseous signaling molecules in EH patients. However, further investigation is required to understand the exact mechanisms underlying these observations, and to confirm these results in a larger cohort.

Synergistic use of compound properties and docking scores in neural network modeling of CYP2D6 binding: predicting affinity and conformational sampling.

PubMed

Bazeley, Peter S; Prithivi, Sridevi; Struble, Craig A; Povinelli, Richard J; Sem, Daniel S

2006-01-01

Cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) is used to develop an approach for predicting affinity and relevant binding conformation(s) for highly flexible binding sites. The approach combines the use of docking scores and compound properties as attributes in building a neural network (NN) model. It begins by identifying segments of CYP2D6 that are important for binding specificity, based on structural variability among diverse CYP enzymes. A family of distinct, low-energy conformations of CYP2D6 are generated using simulated annealing (SA) and a collection of 82 compounds with known CYP2D6 affinities are docked. Interestingly, docking poses are observed on the backside of the heme as well as in the known active site. Docking scores for the active site binders, along with compound-specific attributes, are used to train a neural network model to properly bin compounds as strong binders, moderate binders, or nonbinders. Attribute selection is used to preselect the most important scores and compound-specific attributes for the model. A prediction accuracy of 85+/-6% is achieved. Dominant attributes include docking scores for three of the 20 conformations in the ensemble as well as the compound's formal charge, number of aromatic rings, and AlogP. Although compound properties were highly predictive attributes (12% improvement over baseline) in the NN-based prediction of CYP2D6 binders, their combined use with docking score attributes is synergistic (net increase of 23% above baseline). Beyond prediction of affinity, attribute selection provides a way to identify the most relevant protein conformation(s), in terms of binding competence. In the case of CYP2D6, three out of the ensemble of 20 SA-generated structures are found to be the most predictive for binding.

[Fat-soluble vitamins supplementation in patients with cystic fibrosis: is enough Aquadek's®?].

PubMed

González Jiménez, David; Bousoño García, Carlos; Díaz Martin, Juan Jose; Jiménez Treviño, Santiago

2015-04-01

Evaluate the safety and efficacy of a novel polyvitaminic (Aquadek's®) in patients with Cystic Fibrosis (CF). Prospective, longitudinal and non-randomized study. CF patients with pancreatic insufficiency and clinically stable were given Aquadek's® (two chewable tablets) daily for 12 months. Serum levels of retinol, beta-carotene, 25 OH vitamin D and α-tocopherol were evaluated twelve months before, at baseline and 12 months after. paired t tests. 28 patients aged 6 to 39 years (median 18.5 years) were included. Aquadek's® supplementation led to an increase in vitamin A dose and a decrease in the number of tablets administered. At baseline, 89% had at least one vitamin deficiency (61% pro-Vitamin A and 54% vitamin D). After one year, serum beta-carotene levels were increases 160 (95% CI 98-222) mcg/l (p <0.001) and decreased the percentage of patients with pro-vitamin A deficiency 46% (95% CI 22-64) (p <0.001). The proportion of patients with vitamin D insuficiency increased 18%(95% CI 2-32) (p =0.025). In any case serum levels exceeded the upper limits used to assess the risk of toxicity.Conclusions: Two daily Aquadek's® chewable tablets are safe and effective for maintaining vitamin A and E status of CF patients older than 6 years, although it is insufficient to normalize serum 25OHvitaminD according to the current recommendations for this disease. Copyright AULA MEDICA EDICIONES 2014. Published by AULA MEDICA. All rights reserved.

Short-Term Effects of a High Nitrate Diet on Nitrate Metabolism in Healthy Individuals

PubMed Central

Bondonno, Catherine P.; Liu, Alex H.; Croft, Kevin D.; Ward, Natalie C.; Puddey, Ian B.; Woodman, Richard J.; Hodgson, Jonathan M.

2015-01-01

Dietary nitrate, through the enterosalivary nitrate-nitrite-NO pathway, can improve blood pressure and arterial stiffness. How long systemic nitrate and nitrite remain elevated following cessation of high nitrate intake is unknown. In 19 healthy men and women, the time for salivary and plasma nitrate and nitrite to return to baseline after 7 days increased nitrate intake from green leafy vegetables was determined. Salivary and plasma nitrate and nitrite was measured at baseline [D0], end of high nitrate diet [D7], day 9 [+2D], day 14 [+7D] and day 21 [+14D]. Urinary nitrite and nitrate was assessed at D7 and +14D. Increased dietary nitrate for 7 days resulted in a more than fourfold increase in saliva and plasma nitrate and nitrite (p < 0.001) measured at [D7]. At [+2D] plasma nitrite and nitrate had returned to baseline while saliva nitrate and nitrite were more than 1.5 times higher than at baseline levels. By [+7D] all metabolites had returned to baseline levels. The pattern of response was similar between men and women. Urinary nitrate and nitrate was sevenfold higher at D7 compared to +14D. These results suggest that daily ingestion of nitrate may be required to maintain the physiological changes associated with high nitrate intake. PMID:25774606

Vitamin D level and sustained virologic response to interferon-based antiviral therapy in chronic hepatitis C: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Kitson, Matthew T; Sarrazin, Christoph; Toniutto, Pierluigi; Eslick, Guy D; Roberts, Stuart K

2014-12-01

The baseline 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) level has recently been reported to be an independent predictor of sustained virologic response (SVR) to treatment with pegylated interferon (PEG-IFN) plus ribavirin (RBV) for chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. However, studies have yielded inconsistent results. Thus, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to clarify any association between baseline 25(OH)D level and SVR in HCV therapy. Two reviewers searched four electronic databases (Medline, Embase, PubMed, and Cochrane trials register) and relevant international conference proceedings up to March 2014 for studies treating chronic HCV infection with PEG-IFN plus RBV where baseline 25(OH)D level was tested. Studies involving patients with HIV co-infection, previous liver transplantation or those receiving vitamin D supplementation were excluded. The mean baseline 25(OH)D level was compared between those who achieved and those who failed to achieve SVR. Pooled standard difference in mean 25(OH)D level, odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated with the Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software (version 2.0) using a random effects model. 11 studies comprising 2605 patients were included in the meta-analysis. There was no significant association between the baseline mean 25(OH)D level and SVR (OR 1.44, 95% CI 0.92-2.26; p=0.11), either in patients infected with genotypes 1/4/5 (OR 1.48, 95% CI 0.94-2.34; p=0.09) or genotypes 2/3 (OR 1.51, 95% CI 0.26-8.87; p=0.65). The baseline 25(OH)D level is not associated with SVR to PEG-IFN plus RBV therapy in chronic HCV infection, regardless of genotype. Any effect of vitamin D supplementation on SVR is yet to be definitively determined. Copyright © 2014 European Association for the Study of the Liver. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.