49 CFR 22.59 - Loan modifications.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 49 Transportation 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Loan modifications. 22.59 Section 22.59 Transportation Office of the Secretary of Transportation SHORT-TERM LENDING PROGRAM (STLP) Loan Administration § 22.59 Loan modifications. Any modification to the terms of the DOT OSDBU guarantee agreement must...

Environmental Modifications and 2-Year Measured and Self-reported Stair-Use: A Worksite Randomized Trial

PubMed Central

Linde, Jennifer A.; Cousins, Julie M.; Jeffery, Robert W.

2014-01-01

Environmental modifications have been shown to increase short-term stair use, longer-term success is unclear. This study assessed the 2-year effectiveness of an environmental intervention promoting worksite stair use. We assessed stair use at work by means of self-reports and infrared beam counters (which send a safe and invisible beam of infrared light from one side of a stairwell to a reflector on the other side; when an individual uses the stairs, the infrared beam is disrupted and an instance of stair use is recorded) at six worksites (three intervention, three control) in a group randomized, controlled worksite weight-gain prevention trial in Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN. Intervention modifications were signs encouraging stair use, music, and art posters in stairwells. We collected data before environmental modifications (2006–2007) and at the end of the 2-year intervention (2008–2009). The intervention had a significant positive effect on stair use measured both objectively and via self-report, with greatest increases reported among those participants who used the stairs least at baseline. Following 2-years of continuously-maintained stairwell modifications, increases in both objectively-measured and self-reported stair use were significantly larger at intervention than control worksites. Study findings suggest that the positive impact of environmental modifications on stair use persist over a longer time period than has been previously demonstrated. Results also indicate that infrequent stair users may be most amenable to the behavior changes encouraged by these environmental enhancements. PMID:23979097

Long-term exposure of rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) to ZnO nanoparticles: anatomical and ultrastructural responses.

PubMed

Mousavi Kouhi, Seyed Mousa; Lahouti, Mehrdad; Ganjeali, Ali; Entezari, Mohammad H

2015-07-01

Rapid development of nanotechnology in recent years has raised concerns about nanoparticle (NPs) release into the environment and its adverse effects on living organisms. The present study is the first comprehensive report on the anatomical and ultrastructural changes of a variety of cells after long-term exposure of plant to NPs or bulk material particles (BPs). Light and electron microscopy revealed some anatomical and ultrastructural modifications of the different types of cell in the root and leaf, induced by both types of treatment. Zinc oxide (ZnO) BPs-induced modifications were surprisingly more than those induced by ZnO NPs. The modifications induced by ZnO BPs or ZnO NPs were almost similar to those induced by excess Zn. Zn content of the root and leaf of both ZnO NPs- and ZnO BPs-treated plants was severely increased, where the increase was greater in the plants treated with ZnO BPs. Overall, these results indicate that the modifications induced by ZnO particles can be attributed, at least partly, to the Zn(2+) dissolution by ZnO particles rather than their absorption by root and their subsequent effects.

Short-term effects of an intensive lifestyle modification program on lipid peroxidation and antioxidant systems in patients with coronary artery disease.

PubMed

Jatuporn, Srisakul; Sangwatanaroj, Somkiat; Saengsiri, Aem-Orn; Rattanapruks, Sopida; Srimahachota, Suphot; Uthayachalerm, Wasan; Kuanoon, Wanpen; Panpakdee, Orasa; Tangkijvanich, Pisit; Tosukhowong, Piyaratana

2003-01-01

The purpose of this study was to compare the short-term effects of an intensive lifestyle modification (ILM) program on lipid peroxidation and antioxidant systems in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). Twenty-two patients in the control group continued to receive their conventional treatment with lipid-lowering drugs, whereas 22 patients in the experimental group were assigned to intensive lifestyle modification (ILM) without taking any lipid-lowering agent. The ILM program comprised dietary advice on low-fat diets, high antioxidants and high fiber intakes, yoga exercise, stress management and smoking cessation. After 4 months of intervention, patients in the experimental group revealed a statistically significant increase in plasma total antioxidants, plasma vitamin E and erythrocyte glutathione (GSH) compared to patients in the control group. There was no significant change in plasma malondialdehyde (MDA), a circulating product of lipid peroxidation, in either group. We concluded that the ILM program increased circulating antioxidants and reduced oxidative stress in patients with CAD.

Identification of histone modifications in biomedical text for supporting epigenomic research

PubMed Central

Kolářik, Corinna; Klinger, Roman; Hofmann-Apitius, Martin

2009-01-01

Background Posttranslational modifications of histones influence the structure of chromatine and in such a way take part in the regulation of gene expression. Certain histone modification patterns, distributed over the genome, are connected to cell as well as tissue differentiation and to the adaption of organisms to their environment. Abnormal changes instead influence the development of disease states like cancer. The regulation mechanisms for modifying histones and its functionalities are the subject of epigenomics investigation and are still not completely understood. Text provides a rich resource of knowledge on epigenomics and modifications of histones in particular. It contains information about experimental studies, the conditions used, and results. To our knowledge, no approach has been published so far for identifying histone modifications in text. Results We have developed an approach for identifying histone modifications in biomedical literature with Conditional Random Fields (CRF) and for resolving the recognized histone modification term variants by term standardization. For the term identification F1 measures of 0.84 by 10-fold cross-validation on the training corpus and 0.81 on an independent test corpus have been obtained. The standardization enabled the correct transformation of 96% of the terms from training and 98% from test the corpus. Due to the lack of terminologies exhaustively covering specific histone modification types, we developed a histone modification term hierarchy for use in a semantic text retrieval system. Conclusion The developed approach highly improves the retrieval of articles describing histone modifications. Since text contains context information about performed studies and experiments, the identification of histone modifications is the basis for supporting literature-based knowledge discovery and hypothesis generation to accelerate epigenomic research. PMID:19208128

Identification of histone modifications in biomedical text for supporting epigenomic research.

PubMed

Kolárik, Corinna; Klinger, Roman; Hofmann-Apitius, Martin

2009-01-30

Posttranslational modifications of histones influence the structure of chromatine and in such a way take part in the regulation of gene expression. Certain histone modification patterns, distributed over the genome, are connected to cell as well as tissue differentiation and to the adaption of organisms to their environment. Abnormal changes instead influence the development of disease states like cancer. The regulation mechanisms for modifying histones and its functionalities are the subject of epigenomics investigation and are still not completely understood. Text provides a rich resource of knowledge on epigenomics and modifications of histones in particular. It contains information about experimental studies, the conditions used, and results. To our knowledge, no approach has been published so far for identifying histone modifications in text. We have developed an approach for identifying histone modifications in biomedical literature with Conditional Random Fields (CRF) and for resolving the recognized histone modification term variants by term standardization. For the term identification F1 measures of 0.84 by 10-fold cross-validation on the training corpus and 0.81 on an independent test corpus have been obtained. The standardization enabled the correct transformation of 96% of the terms from training and 98% from test the corpus. Due to the lack of terminologies exhaustively covering specific histone modification types, we developed a histone modification term hierarchy for use in a semantic text retrieval system. The developed approach highly improves the retrieval of articles describing histone modifications. Since text contains context information about performed studies and experiments, the identification of histone modifications is the basis for supporting literature-based knowledge discovery and hypothesis generation to accelerate epigenomic research.

The ethics of molecular memory modification.

PubMed

Hui, Katrina; Fisher, Carl E

2015-07-01

Novel molecular interventions have recently shown the potential to erase, enhance and alter specific long-term memories. Unique features of this form of memory modification call for a close examination of its possible applications. While there have been discussions of the ethics of memory modification in the literature, molecular memory modification (MMM) can provide special insights. Previously raised ethical concerns regarding memory enhancement, such as safety issues, the 'duty to remember', selfhood and personal identity, require re-evaluation in light of MMM. As a technology that exploits the brain's updating processes, MMM helps correct the common misconception that memory is a static entity by demonstrating how memory is plastic and subject to revision even in the absence of external manipulation. Furthermore, while putatively safer than other speculative technologies because of its high specificity, MMM raises notable safety issues, including potential insidious effects on the agent's emotions and personal identity. Nonetheless, MMM possesses characteristics of a more permissible form of modification, not only because it is theoretically safer, but because its unique mechanism of action requires a heightened level of cooperation from the agent. Discussions of memory modification must consider the specific mechanisms of action, which can alter the weight and relevance of various ethical concerns. MMM also highlights the need for conceptual accuracy regarding the term 'enhancement'; this umbrella term will have to be differentiated as new technologies are applied to a widening array of purposes. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.

The effects of landscape modifications on the long-term persistence of animal populations.

PubMed

Nabe-Nielsen, Jacob; Sibly, Richard M; Forchhammer, Mads C; Forbes, Valery E; Topping, Christopher J

2010-01-28

The effects of landscape modifications on the long-term persistence of wild animal populations is of crucial importance to wildlife managers and conservation biologists, but obtaining experimental evidence using real landscapes is usually impossible. To circumvent this problem we used individual-based models (IBMs) of interacting animals in experimental modifications of a real Danish landscape. The models incorporate as much as possible of the behaviour and ecology of four species with contrasting life-history characteristics: skylark (Alauda arvensis), vole (Microtus agrestis), a ground beetle (Bembidion lampros) and a linyphiid spider (Erigone atra). This allows us to quantify the population implications of experimental modifications of landscape configuration and composition. Starting with a real agricultural landscape, we progressively reduced landscape complexity by (i) homogenizing habitat patch shapes, (ii) randomizing the locations of the patches, and (iii) randomizing the size of the patches. The first two steps increased landscape fragmentation. We assessed the effects of these manipulations on the long-term persistence of animal populations by measuring equilibrium population sizes and time to recovery after disturbance. Patch rearrangement and the presence of corridors had a large effect on the population dynamics of species whose local success depends on the surrounding terrain. Landscape modifications that reduced population sizes increased recovery times in the short-dispersing species, making small populations vulnerable to increasing disturbance. The species that were most strongly affected by large disturbances fluctuated little in population sizes in years when no perturbations took place. Traditional approaches to the management and conservation of populations use either classical methods of population analysis, which fail to adequately account for the spatial configurations of landscapes, or landscape ecology, which accounts for landscape structure but has difficulty predicting the dynamics of populations living in them. Here we show how realistic and replicable individual-based models can bridge the gap between non-spatial population theory and non-dynamic landscape ecology. A major strength of the approach is its ability to identify population vulnerabilities not detected by standard population viability analyses.

Immediate effects of a distal gait modification during stair descent in individuals with patellofemoral pain.

PubMed

Aliberti, Sandra; Mezêncio, Bruno; Amadio, Alberto Carlos; Serrão, Julio Cerca; Mochizuki, Luis

2018-05-23

Knee pain during stair managing is a common complaint among individuals with PFP and can negatively affect their activities of daily living. Gait modification programs can be used to decrease patellofemoral pain. Immediate effects of a stair descent distal gait modification session that intended to emphasize forefoot landing during stair descent are described in this study. To analyze the immediate effects of a distal gait modification session on lower extremity movements and intensity of pain in women with patellofemoral pain during stair descent. Nonrandomized controlled trial. Sixteen women with patellofemoral pain were allocated into two groups: (1) Gait Modification Group (n = 8); and 2) Control Group (n = 8). The intensity of pain (visual analog scale) and kinematics of knee, ankle, and forefoot (multi-segmental foot model) during stair descent were assessed before and after the intervention. After the gait modification session, there was an increase of forefoot eversion and ankle plantarflexion as well as a decrease of knee flexion. An immediate decrease in patellofemoral pain intensity during stair descent was also observed. The distal gait modification session changed the lower extremity kinetic chain strategy of movement, increasing foot and ankle movement contribution and decreasing knee contribution to the task. An immediate decrease in patellofemoral pain intensity during stair descent was also observed. To emphasize forefoot landing may be a useful intervention to immediately relieve pain in patients with patellofemoral pain during stair descent. Clinical studies are needed to verify the gait modification session effects in medium and long terms.

Shining light on modifications of gravity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brax, Philippe; Burrage, Clare; Davis, Anne-Christine

2012-10-01

Many modifications of gravity introduce new scalar degrees of freedom, and in such theories matter fields typically couple to an effective metric that depends on both the true metric of spacetime and on the scalar field and its derivatives. Scalar field contributions to the effective metric can be classified as conformal and disformal. Disformal terms introduce gradient couplings between scalar fields and the energy momentum tensor of other matter fields, and cannot be constrained by fifth force experiments because the effects of these terms are trivial around static non-relativistic sources. The use of high-precision, low-energy photon experiments to search for conformally coupled scalar fields, called axion-like particles, is well known. In this article we show that these experiments are also constraining for disformal scalar field theories, and are particularly important because of the difficulty of constraining these couplings with other laboratory experiments.

Physical activity, diet and behaviour modification in the treatment of overweight and obese adults: a systematic review.

PubMed

Södlerlund, Anne; Fischer, Annika; Johansson, Titti

2009-05-01

The aim was to extend the body of knowledge through a systematic review that combines the strengths and partly fills the gaps from earlier reviews. The aim is to review randomized controlled trials of the long-term effectiveness of physical exercise/activity with or without diet and/or behaviour modification therapy in terms of training effect, weight loss and improvement of body composition in overweight and obese, healthy adults. Data for systematic review was collected via a search of databases for literature published between 1995 and 2006. The search yielded 12 articles. The studies showed that training intensity should be moderate. The treatment of overweight and obese individuals with training alone cannot be expected to result in any substantial weight loss but should be combined with diet and behaviour modification therapy. However training can be an important factor in preventing further weight gain, or in helping individuals maintain a lowered body weight. According to this systematic review of randomized controlled trials, the treatment that produced the best weight loss results included a combination of training, behaviour therapy and diet.

ADAPTATION OF THE ADVANCED STATISTICAL TRAJECTORY REGIONAL AIR POLLUTION (ASTRAP) MODEL TO THE EPA VAX COMPUTER - MODIFICATIONS AND TESTING

EPA Science Inventory

The Advanced Statistical Trajectory Regional Air Pollution (ASTRAP) model simulates long-term transport and deposition of oxides of and nitrogen. t is a potential screening tool for assessing long-term effects on regional visibility from sulfur emission sources. owever, a rigorou...

The Effects of Approach-Avoidance Modification on Social Anxiety Disorder: A Pilot Study

PubMed Central

Asnaani, Anu; Rinck, Mike; Becker, Eni; Hofmann, Stefan G.

2014-01-01

Cognitive bias modification has recently been discussed as a possible intervention for mental disorders. A specific form of this novel treatment approach is approach-avoidance modification. In order to examine the efficacy of approach-avoidance modification for positive stimuli associated with social anxiety, we recruited 43 individuals with social anxiety disorder and randomly assigned them to a training (implicit training to approach smiling faces) or a control (equal approach and avoidance of smiling faces) condition in three sessions over the course of a one-week period. Dependent measures included clinician ratings, self-report measures of social anxiety, and overt behavior during behavioral approach tasks. No group differences in any of the outcome measures were observed after training. In addition, while individuals in the training group showed increased approach tendency in one of the sessions, this effect was inconsistent across the three sessions and did not result in long-term changes in implicit approach tendencies between the groups over the course of the entire study. These results suggest that approach-avoidance modification might result in short-lasting effects on implicit approach tendencies towards feared positive stimuli, but this modification may not result in meaningful behavioral change or symptom reduction in individuals with social anxiety disorder. PMID:24659832

Developing a Sealing Material: Effect of Epoxy Modification on Specific Physical and Mechanical Properties

PubMed Central

Schoberleitner, Christoph; Archodoulaki, Vasiliki-Maria; Koch, Thomas; Lüftl, Sigrid; Werderitsch, Markus; Kuschnig, Gerhard

2013-01-01

To develop a matched sealing material for socket rehabilitation of grey cast iron pipes, an epoxy resin is modified by the addition of different components to improve the flexibility. Three different modifications are made by adding ethylene-propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber powder, reactive liquid polymer (ATBN) and epoxidized modifier. In this paper the effect of the modification method as well as the influence of absorption of water on the mechanical and physical properties are analyzed in terms of: tensile strength, modulus of elasticity, adhesion performance, pressure resistance, glass transition temperature and water content. A comparison with neat epoxy shows for all materials that the modulus of elasticity and strength decrease. Unlike other tested modification methods, the modification with rubber powder did not enhance the flexibility. All materials absorb water and a plasticization effect arises with further changes of mechanical and physical properties. The application of the sealant on the grey cast iron leads to a reduction of the strain at break (in comparison to the common tensile test of the pure materials) and has to be evaluated. The main requirement of pressure resistance up to 1 MPa was tested on two chosen materials. Both materials fulfill this requirement. PMID:28788404

Developing a Sealing Material: Effect of Epoxy Modification on Specific Physical and Mechanical Properties.

PubMed

Schoberleitner, Christoph; Archodoulaki, Vasiliki-Maria; Koch, Thomas; Lüftl, Sigrid; Werderitsch, Markus; Kuschnig, Gerhard

2013-11-27

To develop a matched sealing material for socket rehabilitation of grey cast iron pipes, an epoxy resin is modified by the addition of different components to improve the flexibility. Three different modifications are made by adding ethylene-propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber powder, reactive liquid polymer (ATBN) and epoxidized modifier. In this paper the effect of the modification method as well as the influence of absorption of water on the mechanical and physical properties are analyzed in terms of: tensile strength, modulus of elasticity, adhesion performance, pressure resistance, glass transition temperature and water content. A comparison with neat epoxy shows for all materials that the modulus of elasticity and strength decrease. Unlike other tested modification methods, the modification with rubber powder did not enhance the flexibility. All materials absorb water and a plasticization effect arises with further changes of mechanical and physical properties. The application of the sealant on the grey cast iron leads to a reduction of the strain at break (in comparison to the common tensile test of the pure materials) and has to be evaluated. The main requirement of pressure resistance up to 1 MPa was tested on two chosen materials. Both materials fulfill this requirement.

Gait modification strategies for altering medial knee joint load: a systematic review.

PubMed

Simic, Milena; Hinman, Rana S; Wrigley, Tim V; Bennell, Kim L; Hunt, Michael A

2011-03-01

To evaluate the effect of gait modification strategies on the external knee adduction moment (KAM), a marker of medial knee joint load; determine potentially adverse effects; assess the methodologic quality; and identify areas of future research. Five electronic databases were searched. Studies evaluating the effects of gait modifications on the KAM in either healthy individuals or those with knee osteoarthritis (OA) were included. Methodologic quality was evaluated by 2 reviewers using the Downs and Black checklist. Twenty-four studies met the inclusion criteria, exploring 14 different gait modifications of varying sample sizes, age groups, and OA classifications. Contralateral cane use, increased step width, medial knee thrust, increased hip internal rotation, weight transfer to the medial foot, and increased lateral trunk lean demonstrated KAM reductions. Tai Chi gait, ipsilateral cane use, Nordic walking poles, and increased knee flexion exhibited increases in the KAM, demonstrating a potential detriment to their use. The effects of reduced stride length, as well as increases and reductions in either toe-out or gait speed, were inconsistent across the studies and gait cycle. This review demonstrates that some gait modifications have the ability to alter knee load. Future research is required to determine the magnitude of modification required to maximize beneficial effects, the best method of training, long-term patient adherence, and if these biomechanical changes can translate into clinically relevant changes in symptoms or disease progression risk. Copyright © 2011 by the American College of Rheumatology.

Effect modification of the association between temperature variability and daily cardiovascular mortality by air pollutants in three Chinese cities.

PubMed

Luo, Kai; Li, Runkui; Wang, Zongshuang; Zhang, Ruiming; Xu, Qun

2017-11-01

There is limited evidence showing the mortality effects of temperature variability (TV) on cardiovascular diseases. The joint effects between TV and air pollutants are also less well-established. This study aims to assess the effect modification of TV-cardiovascular mortality by air pollutants in three Chinese cities (Beijing, Nanjing and Chengdu). Data of daily mortality, air pollutants and meteorological factors from 2008 to 2011 was collected from each city. TV was calculated as the standard deviation of daily maximum and minimum temperatures over exposure days. The city-specific effect estimates of TV on cardiovascular mortality were calculated using a quasi-Poisson regression model, adjusting for potential confounders (e.g., seasonality and temperature). An interaction term of TV and a three-level air pollutants stratum indicator was included in the models. Effect modifications by air pollutants were assessed by comparing the estimates of TV's effect between pollutant stratums and calculating the corresponding 95% confidential interval of the differences. Multivariate meta-analysis was conducted to obtain the pooled estimates. The data showed that TV was associated with increased risk of cardiovascular mortality, especially for longer TV exposure days (0-8 days, TV08). This association was still observed after adjusting for air pollutants on current day or the previous two days. Stronger estimates were observed in females, but no significant difference between males and females was detected, indicating the absence of evidence of effect modification by gender. Estimates of TV-cardiovascular mortality varied across two season periods (warm and cool season) and age groups, but the evidence of effect modification by age and seasons was absent. Regarding the effect modification of TV-cardiovascular mortality association by air pollutants, a significant effect modification was identified for PM 10, but not for NO 2 and SO 2 in the whole population for all TV exposure days. This finding also persisted in subgroups, specifically in females and the elderly. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Legacy phosphorus in calcareous soils: Effects of long-term poultry litter application

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The effect of manure application on soil phosphorus has been intensively studied with modifications of the Hedley sequential fractionation procedure, X ray absorption near edge structure spectroscopy, and 31P nuclear magnetic resonance. Modern sequential fractionation techniques, coupled with phosph...

Wood-plastic composites with reduced moisture : effects of chemical modification on durability in the laboratory and field

Treesearch

Rebecca E. Ibach; Craig M. Clemons; Rebecca L. Schumann

2007-01-01

Although laboratory evaluations of wood-plastic composites (WPCs) are helpful in predicting long-term durability, field studies are needed to verify overall long-term durability. Field exposure can encompass numerous degradations i.e., fungal, ultraviolet light, moisture, wind, temperature, freeze/thaw, wet/ dry cycling, termites, mold, etc. that traditionally are...

Stochastic coupled cluster theory: Efficient sampling of the coupled cluster expansion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Scott, Charles J. C.; Thom, Alex J. W.

2017-09-01

We consider the sampling of the coupled cluster expansion within stochastic coupled cluster theory. Observing the limitations of previous approaches due to the inherently non-linear behavior of a coupled cluster wavefunction representation, we propose new approaches based on an intuitive, well-defined condition for sampling weights and on sampling the expansion in cluster operators of different excitation levels. We term these modifications even and truncated selections, respectively. Utilising both approaches demonstrates dramatically improved calculation stability as well as reduced computational and memory costs. These modifications are particularly effective at higher truncation levels owing to the large number of terms within the cluster expansion that can be neglected, as demonstrated by the reduction of the number of terms to be sampled when truncating at triple excitations by 77% and hextuple excitations by 98%.

Bi-Objective Optimal Control Modification Adaptive Control for Systems with Input Uncertainty

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nguyen, Nhan T.

2012-01-01

This paper presents a new model-reference adaptive control method based on a bi-objective optimal control formulation for systems with input uncertainty. A parallel predictor model is constructed to relate the predictor error to the estimation error of the control effectiveness matrix. In this work, we develop an optimal control modification adaptive control approach that seeks to minimize a bi-objective linear quadratic cost function of both the tracking error norm and predictor error norm simultaneously. The resulting adaptive laws for the parametric uncertainty and control effectiveness uncertainty are dependent on both the tracking error and predictor error, while the adaptive laws for the feedback gain and command feedforward gain are only dependent on the tracking error. The optimal control modification term provides robustness to the adaptive laws naturally from the optimal control framework. Simulations demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed adaptive control approach.

Integration of ambient seismic noise monitoring, displacement and meteorological measurements to infer the temperature-controlled long-term evolution of a complex prone-to-fall cliff

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Colombero, C.; Baillet, L.; Comina, C.; Jongmans, D.; Larose, E.; Valentin, J.; Vinciguerra, S.

2018-06-01

Monitoring the temporal evolution of resonance frequencies and velocity changes detected from ambient seismic noise recordings can help in recognizing reversible and irreversible modifications within unstable rock volumes. With this aim, the long-term ambient seismic noise data set acquired at the potentially unstable cliff of Madonna delSasso (NW Italian Alps) was analysed in this study, using both spectral analysis and cross-correlation techniques. Noise results were integrated and compared with direct displacement measurements and meteorological data, to understand the long-term evolution of the cliff. No irreversible modifications in the stability of the site were detected over the monitored period. Conversely, daily and seasonal air temperature fluctuations were found to control resonance frequency values, amplitudes and directivities and to induce reversible velocity changes within the fractured rock mass. The immediate modification in the noise parameters due to temperature fluctuations was interpreted as the result of rock mass thermal expansion and contraction, inducing variations in the contact stiffness along the fractures isolating two unstable compartments. Differences with previous case studies were highlighted in the long-term evolution of noise spectral amplitudes and directivities, due to the complex 3-D fracture setting of the site and to the combined effects of the two unstable compartments.

Modification of severe violent and aggressive behavior among psychiatric inpatients through the use of a short-term token economy.

PubMed

Park, Jae Soon; Lee, Kyunghee

2012-12-01

Meager research has been carried out to determine the effectiveness of the token economy among patients behaving violently in mental hospitals. The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of the Short-Term Token Economy (STTE) on violent behavior among chronic psychiatric in-patients. A nonequivalent control group design method was utilized. Participants in an experimental group (n=22) and control group (n=22) took part in this study from January to April, 2008. Observation on aggressive behavior among male in-patients in one hospital as a baseline was made during the week before the behavior modification program and measurement of aggressive behavior was done using the Overt Aggression Scale (OAS), which includes verbal attacks, property damage and physical attacks. The aggressive behavior scores of the experimental group decreased, those of the control group, scores showed an increase after the eight-week behavior modification program utilizing STTE. The results of the study indicate that STTE is effective in reducing the incidence of aggressive behavior among male in-patients in psychiatric hospitals. The outcome of this study should be helpful in reducing the use of coercive measures or psychoactive medication in controlling the violent behavior among in-patients in hospitals.

Priming Effects in Word-Fragment Completion Are Independent of Recognition Memory.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tulving, Endel; And Others

1982-01-01

Since the priming effects described in this article were independent of episodic memory, and since there were problems with their interpretation in terms of modifications of semantic memory, it is felt that they reflect the operation of some other, as yet little understood, memory system. (Author/PN)

Modification on liquid retention property of cassava starch by radiation grafting with acrylonitrile. I. Effect of γ-irradiation on grafting parameters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kiatkamjornwong, S.; Chvajarernpun, J.; Nakason, C.

1993-07-01

Radiation modification on liquid retention properties of native cassava starch, gelatinized at 85°C, by graft copolymerization with acrylonitrile was carried out by mutual irradiation to gamma-rays. A thin aluminum foil was used to cover the inner wall of the reaction vessel, so that the homopolymer concentration was reduced to be less than 1.0% with a distilled water retention value of 665 g/g of the dry weight of the saponified grafted product. Confirmation of graft copolymerization and saponification reactions was made by the infrared spectrophotometric technique. The combined effect of radiation parameters in terms of an irradiation time and a dose rate to the total dose on the extent of the grafting reaction expressed in terms of grafting parameters which directly influenced liquid retention values was evaluated in conjunction with statistical analysis.

An Open Middle-Term Study of Combined Vitamin B6-Magnesium in a Subgroup of Autistic Children Selected on Their Sensitivity to this Treatment. Brief Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Martineau, J.; And Others

1988-01-01

The study examined effects of eight weeks of treatment with Vitamin B6-Magnesium on 11 autistic children sensitive to this treatment over a shorter term. The study found significant modifications in the electrophysiological, clinical, and biochemical data gathered before, during, and after treatment. (DB)

Effects of the Ponderomotive Terms in the Thermal Transport on the Hydrodynamic Flow in Inertial Confinement Fusion Experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goncharov, V. N.; Li, G.

2004-11-01

Electron thermal transport is significantly modified by the laser-induced electric fields near the turning point and at the critical surface. It is shown that such modifications lead to an additional limitation in the heat flux in laser-produced plasmas. Furthermore, the ponderomotive terms in the heat flux lead to a steepening in the electron-density profile, which is shown to be a larger effect than the profile modification due to the ponderomotive force [W.L. Kruer, The Physics of Laser--Plasma Interactions, Frontiers in Physics, Vol. 73, edited by D. Pines (Addison-Wesley, Redwood City, CA, 1988)]. To take into account the nonlocal effects, the delocalization model developed in Ref. 2 [G.P. Schurtz, Ph.D. Nicolaï, and M. Busquet, Phys. Plasmas 7, 4238 (2000).] has been applied to conditions relevant to ICF experiments. This work was supported by the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Inertial Confinement Fusion under Cooperative Agreement No. DE-FC52-92SF19460.

Landscape changes as a factor affecting the course and consequences of extreme floods in the Otava river basin, Czech Republic.

PubMed

Langhammer, Jakub; Vilímek, Vít

2008-09-01

The paper presents the analysis of anthropogenical modifications of the landscape in relation to the course and consequences of floods. The research was conducted in the Otava river basin which represents the core zone of the extreme flood in August 2002 in Central Europe. The analysis was focused on the key indicators of landscape modification potentially affecting the runoff process - the long-term changes of land-use, changes of land cover structure, land drainage, historical shortening of the river network and the modifications of streams and floodplains. The information on intensity and spatial distribution of modifications was derived from different data sources--historical maps, available GIS data, remote sensing and field mapping. The results revealed a high level of spatial diversity of anthropogenical modifications in different parts of the river basin. The intensive modifications in most of indicators were concentrated in the lowland region of the river basin due to its agricultural use; however important changes were also recorded in the headwater region of the basin. The high spatial diversity of the modifications may result in their varying effect on the course and consequences of floods in different parts of the river basin. This effect is demonstrated by the cluster analysis based on the matrix of indicators of stream and floodplain modification, physiogeographical characteristics and geomorphological evidences of the flood in August 2002, derived from the individual thematic layers using GIS.

Long-Term Dynamics of Autonomous Fractional Differential Equations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Tao; Xu, Wei; Xu, Yong; Han, Qun

This paper aims to investigate long-term dynamic behaviors of autonomous fractional differential equations with effective numerical method. The long-term dynamic behaviors predict where systems are heading after long-term evolution. We make some modification and transplant cell mapping methods to autonomous fractional differential equations. The mapping time duration of cell mapping is enlarged to deal with the long memory effect. Three illustrative examples, i.e. fractional Lotka-Volterra equation, fractional van der Pol oscillator and fractional Duffing equation, are studied with our revised generalized cell mapping method. We obtain long-term dynamics, such as attractors, basins of attraction, and saddles. Compared with some existing stability and numerical results, the validity of our method is verified. Furthermore, we find that the fractional order has its effect on the long-term dynamics of autonomous fractional differential equations.

Investigation of the Effect of Oil Modification on Critical Characteristics of Asphalt Binders

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Golalipour, Amir

Thermally induced cracking of asphalt pavement continues to be a serious issue in cold climate regions as well as in areas which experience extreme daily temperature differentials. Low temperature cracking of asphalt pavements is attributed to thermal stresses and strains developed during cooling cycles. Improving asphalt binder low temperature fracture and stiffness properties continues to be a subject of particular concern. Therefore, significant amount of research has been focused on improving asphalt binder properties through modification. In recent years, wide ranges of oil based modifications have been introduced to improve asphalt binder performance, especially at the low service temperatures. Although, significant use of these oils is seen in practice, knowledge of the fundamental mechanisms of oil modification and their properties for achieving optimum characteristics is limited. Hence, this study focuses on better understanding of the effect of oil modifiers which would help better material selection and achieve optimum performance in terms of increasing the life span of pavements. In this study, the effect of oil modification on the rheological properties of the asphalt binder is investigated. To examine the effect of oil modification on binder characteristics, low temperature properties as well as high temperature performance of oil modified binders were evaluated. It is found that oils vary in their effects on asphalt binder performance. However, for all oils used in the study, adding an oil to binder can improve binder low temperature performance, and this result mainly attributed to the softening effect. In addition to that, a simple linear model is proposed to predict the performance grade of oil modified binder based on the properties of its constituents at high and low temperatures. Another part of this study focuses on the oil modification effect on asphalt binder thermal strain and stresses. A viscoelastic analytical procedure is combined with experimentally derived failure stress and strain envelopes to determine the controlling failure mechanism, strain tolerance or critical stress, in thermal cracking of oil modified binders. The low temperature failure results depict that oil modification has a good potential of improving the cracking resistance of asphalt binders during thermal cycles.

78 FR 27196 - Modification of Permit Application and Intent for Additional Public Scoping for an Environmental...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-05-09

... simulations. Final channel design and associated environmental impacts will be addressed during the permitting and EIS process. The EIS will evaluate the effects of construction and long term effects of the... in the EIS process; announce the plans for an additional public scoping meeting; solicit public...

Distributed Emulation in Support of Large Networks

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-06-01

Provider LTE Long Term Evolution MB Megabyte MIPS Microprocessor without Interlocked Pipeline Stages MRT Multi-Threaded Routing Toolkit NPS Naval...environment, modifications to a network, protocol, or model can be executed – and the effects measured – without affecting real-world users or services...produce their results when analyzing performance of Long Term Evolution ( LTE ) gateways [3]. Many research scenarios allow problems to be represented

CARDIOVASCULAR CONSEQUENCES OF IMMUNE MODIFICATION BY TRAFFIC-RELATED EMISSIONS

EPA Science Inventory

Findings will 1) indicate the most potent combinations of urban roadway and background copollutants in terms of vascular toxicity and 2) detail the role of the immune system in mechanistically driving the systemic effects of inhaled pollutants.

Positive interventions: An emotion regulation perspective.

PubMed

Quoidbach, Jordi; Mikolajczak, Moïra; Gross, James J

2015-05-01

The rapid growth of the literature on positive interventions to increase "happiness" has suggested the need for an overarching conceptual framework to integrate the many and apparently disparate findings. In this review, we used the process model of emotion regulation (Gross, 1998) to organize the existing literature on positive interventions and to advance theory by clarifying the mechanisms underlying their effectiveness. We have proposed that positive emotions can be increased both in the short- and longer-term through 5 families of emotion regulation strategies (i.e., situation selection, situation modification, attentional deployment, cognitive change, and response modulation), showing how these emotion regulation strategies can be applied before, during, and after positive emotional events. Regarding short-term increases in positive emotions, our review found that attentional deployment, cognitive change, and response modulation strategies have received the most empirical support, whereas more work is needed to establish the effectiveness of situation selection and situation modification strategies. Regarding longer-term increases in positive emotions, strategies such as situation selection during an event and attentional deployment before, during, and after an event have received strong empirical support and are at the center of many positive interventions. However, more work is needed to establish the specific benefits of the other strategies, especially situation modification. We argue that our emotion regulation framework clarifies existing interventions and points the way for new interventions that might be used to increase positive emotions in both nonclinical and clinical populations. (c) 2015 APA, all rights reserved).

Multiphoton microscopy guides neurotrophin modification with poly(ethylene glycol) to enhance interstitial diffusion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stroh, Mark; Zipfel, Warren R.; Williams, Rebecca M.; Ma, Shu Chin; Webb, Watt W.; Saltzman, W. Mark

2004-07-01

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a promising therapeutic agent for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. However, the limited distribution of this molecule after administration into the brain tissue considerably hampers its efficacy. Here, we show how multiphoton microscopy of fluorescently tagged BDNF in brain-tissue slices provides a useful and rapid screening method for examining the diffusion of large molecules in tissues, and for studying the effects of chemical modifications-for example, conjugating with polyethylene glycol (PEG)-on the diffusion constant. This single variable, obtained by monitoring short-term diffusion in real time, can be effectively used for rational drug design. In this study on fluorescently tagged BDNF and BDNF-PEG, we identify slow diffusion as a major contributing factor to the limited penetration of BDNF, and demonstrate how chemical modification can be used to overcome this barrier.

Proteomic investigation of protein profile changes and amino acid residue-level modification in cooked lamb longissimus thoracis et lumborum: The effect of roasting.

PubMed

Yu, Tzer-Yang; Morton, James D; Clerens, Stefan; Dyer, Jolon M

2016-09-01

Protein modifications of meat cooked by typical dry-heat methods (e.g., roasting) are currently not well understood. The present study utilised a shotgun proteomic approach to examine the molecular-level effect of roasting on thin lamb longissimus thoracis et lumborum patties, in terms of changes to both the protein profile and amino acid residue side-chain modifications. Cooking caused aggregation of actin, myosin heavy chains and sarcoplasmic proteins. Longer roasting time resulted in significantly reduced protein extractability as well as protein truncation involving particularly a number of myofibrillar and sarcoplasmic proteins, e.g., 6-phosphofructokinase, beta-enolase, l-lactate dehydrogenase A chain, alpha-actinin-3, actin and possibly myosin heavy chains. Modifications that have potential influence on nutritional properties, including carboxyethyllysine and a potentially glucose-derived N-terminal Amadori compound, were observed in actin and myoglobin after roasting. This study provided new insights into molecular changes resulting from the dry-heat treatment of meat, such as commonly used in food preparation. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Adaptive Flight Control Design with Optimal Control Modification on an F-18 Aircraft Model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Burken, John J.; Nguyen, Nhan T.; Griffin, Brian J.

2010-01-01

In the presence of large uncertainties, a control system needs to be able to adapt rapidly to regain performance. Fast adaptation is referred to as the implementation of adaptive control with a large adaptive gain to reduce the tracking error rapidly; however, a large adaptive gain can lead to high-frequency oscillations which can adversely affect the robustness of an adaptive control law. A new adaptive control modification is presented that can achieve robust adaptation with a large adaptive gain without incurring high-frequency oscillations as with the standard model-reference adaptive control. The modification is based on the minimization of the Y2 norm of the tracking error, which is formulated as an optimal control problem. The optimality condition is used to derive the modification using the gradient method. The optimal control modification results in a stable adaptation and allows a large adaptive gain to be used for better tracking while providing sufficient robustness. A damping term (v) is added in the modification to increase damping as needed. Simulations were conducted on a damaged F-18 aircraft (McDonnell Douglas, now The Boeing Company, Chicago, Illinois) with both the standard baseline dynamic inversion controller and the adaptive optimal control modification technique. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed modification in tracking a reference model.

Improvement of the Reynolds-stress model by a new pressure-strain correlation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Amano, Ryoichi S.; Chai, John C.

1988-01-01

A study is made to improve the predictions of Reynolds stresses in backward facing step flows, through modifications of the pressure-strain correlation. The mean-strain term of the pressure-strain correlation is formulated only in terms of nonisotropic turbulence in order to take the severe nonisotropic effect caused by a separating flow. This model is compared with other models and results are verified with experimental results.

10 CFR 40.71 - Modification and revocation of licenses.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 10 Energy 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Modification and revocation of licenses. 40.71 Section 40.71 Energy NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION DOMESTIC LICENSING OF SOURCE MATERIAL Modification and Revocation of Licenses § 40.71 Modification and revocation of licenses. (a) The terms and conditions of each...

Competitive growth, energy allocation, and host modification in the acanthocephalan Acanthocephalus dirus: field data.

PubMed

Caddigan, Sara C; Pfenning, Alaina C; Sparkes, Timothy C

2017-01-01

The acanthocephalan Acanthocephalus dirus is a trophically transmitted parasite that modifies both the physiology and behavior of its intermediate host (isopod) prior to transmission to its definitive host (fish). Infected isopods often contain multiple A. dirus individuals and we examined the relationships between host sharing, body size, energy content, and host modification to determine if host sharing was costly and if these costs could influence the modification of host behavior (mating behavior). Using field-based measures of parasite energy content (glycogen, lipid) and parasite body size (volume), we showed that host sharing was costly in terms of energy content but not in terms of body size. Analysis of the predictors of host behavior revealed that energy content, and body size, were not predictors of host behavior. Of the variables examined, parasite intensity was the only predictor of host behavior. Hosts that contained more parasites were less likely to be modified (i.e., less likely to undergo mating suppression). We suggest that intraspecific competition influenced parasite energy content and that the costs associated with competition are likely to shape the strategy of growth and energy allocation adopted by the parasites. These costs did not appear to have a direct effect on the modification of host mating behavior.

76 FR 6555 - Loan Guaranty Revised Loan Modification Procedures

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-02-07

... due date for payments. Modifications usually adjust the terms of the loan agreement by: capitalizing delinquent interest, advances, or other amounts due; extending the repayment terms; changing the interest... guaranteed housing loans in default. Specifically, changes are made to requirements related to maximum...

Short-term effects of air temperature on mortality and effect modification by air pollution in three cities of Bavaria, Germany: A time-series analysis

EPA Science Inventory

Background: Air temperature has been shown to be associated with mortality; however, only very few studies have been conducted in Germany. This study examined the association between daily air temperature and cause-specific mortality in Bavaria, Southern Germany. Moreover, we inv...

Essential tremor.

PubMed Central

Murray, T. J.

1981-01-01

Essential tremor, including the juvenile and senile variations, may be a result of a disorder of the servomechanism that controls physiologic tremor. Hands and arms are affected most commonly, and the tremor can vary in amplitude as well as frequency. Long-term treatment with propranolol has been helpful for some patients, although older patients are less likely to benefit. Other drugs and behaviour modification therapy have been less successful. Surgical treatment is effective but should probably be reserved for severe cases. An effective instrument for measuring the subjective and objective aspects of the tremor is still needed, as is an effective long-term method of treatment. PMID:7018658

Continuous video coherence computing model for detecting scene boundaries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kang, Hang-Bong

2001-07-01

The scene boundary detection is important in the semantic understanding of video data and is usually determined by coherence between shots. To measure the coherence, two approaches have been proposed. One is a discrete approach and the other one is a continuous approach. In this paper, we use the continuous approach and propose some modifications on the causal First-In-First-Out(FIFO) short-term memory-based model. One modification is that we allow dynamic memory size in computing coherence reliably regardless of the size of each shot. Another modification is that some shots can be removed from the memory buffer not by the FIFO rule. These removed shots have no or small foreground objects. Using this model, we detect scene boundaries by computing shot coherence. In computing coherence, we add one new term which is the number of intermediate shots between two comparing shots because the effect of intermediate shots is important in computing shot recall. In addition, we also consider shot activity because this is important to reflect human perception. We experiment our computing model on different genres of videos and have obtained reasonable results.

Florigen unmasked - exciting prospects for horticulture

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The pioneer work of Garner and Allard, who coined the term “photoperiod” to describe the dramatic effects of day length on flowering of many plants, led to the widespread commercial use of photoperiod modification to control flowering in plants, particularly ornamentals. M.K. Chailakhyan suggested t...

Transgenerational epigenetic effects on animal behaviour.

PubMed

Jensen, Per

2013-12-01

Over the last decade a shift in paradigm has occurred with respect to the interaction between environment and genes. It is now clear that animal genomes are regulated to a large extent as a result of input from environmental events and experiences, which cause short- and long-term modifications in epigenetic markings of DNA and histones. In this review, the evidence that such epigenetic modifications can affect the behaviour of animals is explored, and whether such acquired behaviour alterations can transfer across generation borders. First, the mechanisms by which experiences cause epigenetic modifications are examined. This includes, for example, methylation of cytosine in CpG positions and acetylation of histones, and studies showing that this can be modified by early experiences. Secondly, the evidence that specific modifications in the epigenome can be the cause of behaviour variation is reviewed. Thirdly, the extent to which this phenotypically active epigenetic variants can be inherited either through the germline or through reoccurring environmental conditions is examined. A particularly interesting observation is that epigenetic modifications are often linked to stress, and may possibly be mediated by steroid effects. Finally, the idea that transgenerationally stable epigenetic variants may serve as substrates for natural selection is explored, and it is speculated that they may even predispose for directed, non-random mutations. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Modifying Operating Cycles to Increase Stability in a LITS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Burt, Eric; Tjoelker, Robert

2009-01-01

The short-term instability in the frequency of a linear-ion-trap frequency standard (LITS) can be reduced by modifying two cycles involved in its operation: (1) the bimodal (bright/dim) cycle of a plasma discharge lamp used for state preparation and detection and (2) a microwave-interrogation cycle. The purpose and effect of the modifications is to enable an increase in the microwave- interrogation cycle time, motivated by the general principle that the short-term uncertainty or instability decreases with increasing microwave-interrogation time. Stated from a slightly different perspective, the effect of modifications is to enable the averaged LITS readings to settle to their longterm stability over a shorter total observation time. The basic principles of a LITS were discussed in several NASA Tech Briefs articles. Here are recapitulated only those items of background information necessary to place the present modifications in context. A LITS includes a microwave local oscillator, the frequency of which is stabilized by comparison with the frequency of a ground-state hyperfine transition of Hg-199(+) ions. In a LITS of the type to which the modifications apply, the comparison involves a combination of optical and micro wave excitation and interrogation of the ions in two collinear ion traps: a quadrupole trap wherein the optical excitation used for state preparation and detection takes place, and a multipole (e.g., 12-pole) trap wherein the microwave interrogation of the clock transition takes place. The ions are initially loaded into the quadrupole trap and are thereafter shuttled between the two traps. This concludes the background information.

A Growing Role for Gender Analysis in Air Pollution Epidemiology

PubMed Central

Clougherty, Jane E.

2010-01-01

Objective Epidemiologic studies of air pollution effects on respiratory health report significant modification by sex, although results are not uniform. Importantly, it remains unclear whether modifications are attributable to socially derived gendered exposures, to sex-linked physiological differences, or to some interplay thereof. Gender analysis, which aims to disaggregate social from biological differences between males and females, may help to elucidate these possible sources of effect modification. Data sources and data extraction A PubMed literature search was performed in July 2009, using the terms “respiratory” and any of “sex” or “gender” or “men and women” or “boys and girls” and either “PM2.5” (particulate matter ≥ 2.5 μm in aerodynamic diameter) or “NO2” (nitrogen dioxide). I reviewed the identified studies, and others cited therein, to summarize current evidence of effect modification, with attention to authors’ interpretation of observed differences. Owing to broad differences in exposure mixes, outcomes, and analytic techniques, with few studies examining any given combination thereof, meta-analysis was not deemed appropriate at this time. Data synthesis More studies of adults report stronger effects among women, particularly for older persons or where using residential exposure assessment. Studies of children suggest stronger effects among boys in early life and among girls in later childhood. Conclusions The qualitative review describes possible sources of difference in air pollution response between women and men, which may vary by life stage, coexposures, hormonal status, or other factors. The sources of observed effect modifications remain unclear, although gender analytic approaches may help to disentangle gender and sex differences in pollution response. A framework for incorporating gender analysis into environmental epidemiology is offered, along with several potentially useful methods from gender analysis. PMID:20123621

Automatic Control of Personal Rapid Transit Vehicles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, P. D.

1972-01-01

The requirements for automatic longitudinal control of a string of closely packed personal vehicles are outlined. Optimal control theory is used to design feedback controllers for strings of vehicles. An important modification of the usual optimal control scheme is the inclusion of jerk in the cost functional. While the inclusion of the jerk term was considered, the effect of its inclusion was not sufficiently studied. Adding the jerk term will increase passenger comfort.

Induction of late LTP-like plasticity in the human motor cortex by repeated non-invasive brain stimulation.

PubMed

Monte-Silva, Katia; Kuo, Min-Fang; Hessenthaler, Silvia; Fresnoza, Shane; Liebetanz, David; Paulus, Walter; Nitsche, Michael A

2013-05-01

Non-invasive brain stimulation enables the induction of neuroplasticity in humans, however, with so far restricted duration of the respective cortical excitability modifications. Conventional anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) protocols including one stimulation session induce NMDA receptor-dependent excitability enhancements lasting for about 1 h. We aimed to extend the duration of tDCS effects by periodic stimulation, consisting of two stimulation sessions, since periodic stimulation protocols are able to induce neuroplastic excitability alterations stable for days or weeks, termed late phase long term potentiation (l-LTP), in animal slice preparations. Since both, l-LTP and long term memory formation, require gene expression and protein synthesis, and glutamatergic receptor activity modifications, l-LTP might be a candidate mechanism for the formation of long term memory. The impact of two consecutive tDCS sessions on cortical excitability was probed in the motor cortex of healthy humans, and compared to that of a single tDCS session. The second stimulation was applied without an interval (temporally contiguous tDCS), during the after-effects of the first stimulation (during after-effects; 3, or 20 min interval), or after the after-effects of the first stimulation had vanished (post after-effects; 3 or 24 h interval). The during after-effects condition resulted in an initially reduced, but then relevantly prolonged excitability enhancement, which was blocked by an NMDA receptor antagonist. The other conditions resulted in an abolishment, or a calcium channel-dependent reversal of neuroplasticity. Repeated tDCS within a specific time window is able to induce l-LTP-like plasticity in the human motor cortex. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Neighbourhood Characteristics and Long-Term Air Pollution Levels Modify the Association between the Short-Term Nitrogen Dioxide Concentrations and All-Cause Mortality in Paris

PubMed Central

Deguen, Séverine; Petit, Claire; Delbarre, Angélique; Kihal, Wahida; Padilla, Cindy; Benmarhnia, Tarik; Lapostolle, Annabelle; Chauvin, Pierre; Zmirou-Navier, Denis

2015-01-01

Background While a great number of papers have been published on the short-term effects of air pollution on mortality, few have tried to assess whether this association varies according to the neighbourhood socioeconomic level and long-term ambient air concentrations measured at the place of residence. We explored the effect modification of 1) socioeconomic status, 2) long-term NO2 ambient air concentrations, and 3) both combined, on the association between short-term exposure to NO2 and all-cause mortality in Paris (France). Methods A time-stratified case-crossover analysis was performed to evaluate the effect of short-term NO2 variations on mortality, based on 79,107 deaths having occurred among subjects aged over 35 years, from 2004 to 2009, in the city of Paris. Simple and double interactions were statistically tested in order to analyse effect modification by neighbourhood characteristics on the association between mortality and short-term NO2 exposure. The data was estimated at the census block scale (n=866). Results The mean of the NO2 concentrations during the five days prior to deaths were associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality: overall Excess Risk (ER) was 0.94% (95%CI=[0.08;1.80]. A higher risk was revealed for subjects living in the most deprived census blocks in comparison with higher socioeconomic level areas (ER=3.14% (95%CI=[1.41-4.90], p<0.001). Among these deprived census blocks, excess risk was even higher where long-term average NO2 concentrations were above 55.8 μg/m3 (the top tercile of distribution): ER=4.84% (95%CI=[1.56;8.24], p for interaction=0.02). Conclusion Our results show that people living in census blocks characterized by low socioeconomic status are more vulnerable to air pollution episodes. There is also an indication that people living in these disadvantaged census blocks might experience even higher risk following short-term air pollution episodes, when they are also chronically exposed to higher NO2 levels. PMID:26197409

Neighbourhood Characteristics and Long-Term Air Pollution Levels Modify the Association between the Short-Term Nitrogen Dioxide Concentrations and All-Cause Mortality in Paris.

PubMed

Deguen, Séverine; Petit, Claire; Delbarre, Angélique; Kihal, Wahida; Padilla, Cindy; Benmarhnia, Tarik; Lapostolle, Annabelle; Chauvin, Pierre; Zmirou-Navier, Denis

2015-01-01

While a great number of papers have been published on the short-term effects of air pollution on mortality, few have tried to assess whether this association varies according to the neighbourhood socioeconomic level and long-term ambient air concentrations measured at the place of residence. We explored the effect modification of 1) socioeconomic status, 2) long-term NO2 ambient air concentrations, and 3) both combined, on the association between short-term exposure to NO2 and all-cause mortality in Paris (France). A time-stratified case-crossover analysis was performed to evaluate the effect of short-term NO2 variations on mortality, based on 79,107 deaths having occurred among subjects aged over 35 years, from 2004 to 2009, in the city of Paris. Simple and double interactions were statistically tested in order to analyse effect modification by neighbourhood characteristics on the association between mortality and short-term NO2 exposure. The data was estimated at the census block scale (n=866). The mean of the NO2 concentrations during the five days prior to deaths were associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality: overall Excess Risk (ER) was 0.94% (95%CI=[0.08;1.80]. A higher risk was revealed for subjects living in the most deprived census blocks in comparison with higher socioeconomic level areas (ER=3.14% (95%CI=[1.41-4.90], p<0.001). Among these deprived census blocks, excess risk was even higher where long-term average NO2 concentrations were above 55.8 μg/m3 (the top tercile of distribution): ER=4.84% (95%CI=[1.56;8.24], p for interaction=0.02). Our results show that people living in census blocks characterized by low socioeconomic status are more vulnerable to air pollution episodes. There is also an indication that people living in these disadvantaged census blocks might experience even higher risk following short-term air pollution episodes, when they are also chronically exposed to higher NO2 levels.

7 CFR 636.10 - Modifications.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 6 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Modifications. 636.10 Section 636.10 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture (Continued) NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE LONG TERM CONTRACTING WILDLIFE HABITAT INCENTIVE PROGRAM § 636.10 Modifications. (a) The...

7 CFR 636.10 - Modifications.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 6 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Modifications. 636.10 Section 636.10 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture (Continued) NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE LONG TERM CONTRACTING WILDLIFE HABITAT INCENTIVES PROGRAM § 636.10 Modifications. (a) The...

7 CFR 636.10 - Modifications.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 6 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Modifications. 636.10 Section 636.10 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture (Continued) NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE LONG TERM CONTRACTING WILDLIFE HABITAT INCENTIVE PROGRAM § 636.10 Modifications. (a) The...

7 CFR 636.10 - Modifications.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 6 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Modifications. 636.10 Section 636.10 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture (Continued) NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE LONG TERM CONTRACTING WILDLIFE HABITAT INCENTIVE PROGRAM § 636.10 Modifications. (a) The...

7 CFR 636.10 - Modifications.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 6 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Modifications. 636.10 Section 636.10 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture (Continued) NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE LONG TERM CONTRACTING WILDLIFE HABITAT INCENTIVE PROGRAM § 636.10 Modifications. (a) The...

Effect of surface topological structure and chemical modification of flame sprayed aluminum coatings on the colonization of Cylindrotheca closterium on their surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Xiuyong; He, Xiaoyan; Suo, Xinkun; Huang, Jing; Gong, Yongfeng; Liu, Yi; Li, Hua

2016-12-01

Biofouling is one of the major problems for the coatings used for protecting marine infrastructures during their long-term services. Regulation in surface structure and local chemistry is usually the key for adjusting antifouling performances of the coatings. In this study, flame sprayed multi-layered aluminum coatings with micropatterned surfaces were constructed and the effects of their surface structure and chemistry on the settlement of typical marine diatoms were investigated. Micropatterned topographical morphology of the coatings was constructed by employing steel mesh as a shielding plate during the coating deposition. A silicone elastomer layer for sealing and interconnection was further brush-coated on the micropatterned coatings. Additional surface modification was made using zwitterionic molecules via DOPA linkage. The surface-modified coatings resist effectively colonization of Cylindrotheca closterium. This is explained by the quantitative examination of a simplified conditioning layer that deteriorated adsorption of bovine calf serum proteins on the zwitterionic molecule-treated samples is revealed. The colonization behaviors of the marine diatoms are markedly influenced by the micropatterned topographical morphology. Either the surface micropatterning or the surface modification by zwitterionic molecules enhances antimicrobial ability of the coatings. However, the combined micropatterned structure and zwitterionic modification do not show synergistic effect. The results give insight into anti-corrosion/fouling applications of the modified aluminum coatings in the marine environment.

Impacts of temperature change on ambulance dispatches and seasonal effect modification.

PubMed

Cheng, Jian; Xu, Zhiwei; Zhao, Desheng; Xie, Mingyu; Yang, Huihui; Wen, Liying; Li, Kesheng; Su, Hong

2016-12-01

Ambulance dispatch is a proxy of acute health outcomes, and growing epidemiological evidence documented its relation to extreme temperature events. Research, however, on short-term temperature change and ambulance dispatches is scarce. We aimed to investigate the effect of short-term temperature change on ambulance dispatches and potential modification by season. Daily data on ambulance dispatch and weather factors were collected in Huainan, a Chinese inland city from December 2011 through December 2013. A Poison generalized linear regression model combined with distributed lag nonlinear model was constructed to examine the association of temperature change between neighboring days (TCN) with ambulance dispatches. The effect modification by season was also examined. There were 48,700 ambulance attendances during the study period. A statistically significant association of TCN with ambulance dispatches was observed. Temperature rise between neighboring days (TCN > 0) was associated with elevated adverse risk of ambulance dispatches, and the effects appeared to be acute (lag0, on the current day) and could last for at least a week, while temperature drop between neighboring days (TCN < 0) had a protective effect. For a 1 °C increase of TCN at lag0 and lag06 (on the 7-day moving average), the risk of ambulance dispatches increased by 2 % (95 % CI 1-3 %) and 7 (95 % CI 1-13 %), respectively. Extreme TCN increase (95th percentile, 3.3 °C vs. 0 °C) at lag0 and lag05 was accompanied by 6 (95 % CI 3-8 %) and 27 % (95 % CI 12-44 %) increase in ambulance dispatches. Ambulance dispatches were more vulnerable to extremely great temperature rise in summer and autumn. TCN was adopted for the first time to quantify the impact of short-term temperature change on ambulance dispatches. Temperature drop between neighboring days (TCN < 0) had a protective effect on ambulance dispatches, while temperature rise between neighboring days (TCN > 0) could acutely trigger the increase in ambulance dispatches, and TCN effect differs by season.

Methodologic ramifications of paying attention to sex and gender differences in clinical research.

PubMed

Prins, Martin H; Smits, Kim M; Smits, Luc J

2007-01-01

Methodologic standards for studies on sex and gender differences should be developed to improve reporting of studies and facilitate their inclusion in systematic reviews. The essence of these studies lies within the concept of effect modification. This article reviews important methodologic issues in the design and reporting of pharmacogenetic studies. Differences in effect based on sex or gender should preferably be expressed in absolute terms (risk differences) to facilitate clinical decisions on treatment. Information on the distribution of potential effect modifiers or prognostic factors should be available to prevent a biased comparison of differences in effect between genotypes. Other considerations included the possibility of selective nonavailability of biomaterial and the choice of a statistical model to study effect modification. To ensure high study quality, additional methodologic issues should be taken into account when designing and reporting studies on sex and gender differences.

Covalent modification of proteins by cocaine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deng, Shi-Xian; Bharat, Narine; Fischman, Marian C.; Landry, Donald W.

2002-03-01

Cocaine covalently modifies proteins through a reaction in which the methyl ester of cocaine acylates the -amino group of lysine residues. This reaction is highly specific in vitro, because no other amino acid reacts with cocaine, and only cocaine's methyl ester reacts with the lysine side chain. Covalently modified proteins were present in the plasma of rats and human subjects chronically exposed to cocaine. Modified endogenous proteins are immunogenic, and specific antibodies were elicited in mouse and detected in the plasma of human subjects. Covalent modification of proteins could explain cocaine's autoimmune effects and provide a new biochemical approach to cocaine's long-term actions.

Effect of ion-beam treatment on structure and fracture resistance of 12Cr1MoV steel under static, cyclic and dynamic loading

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

Panin, S. V., E-mail: svp@ispms.tsc.ru; Vlasov, I. V., E-mail: good0@yandex.ru; Sergeev, V. P., E-mail: retc@ispms.tsc.ru

2015-10-27

Features of the structure and properties modification of 12Cr1MoV steel subjected to irradiation by zirconium ion beam have been investigated with the use of optical and electron microscopy as well as microhardness measurement. It has been shown that upon treatment the structure modification occurred across the entire cross-section of specimens with the thickness of 1 mm. Changes in the mechanical properties of these specimens under static, cyclic and impact loading are interpreted in terms of identified structure changes.

Workplace involvement improves return to work rates among employees with back pain on long-term sick leave: a systematic review of the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of interventions.

PubMed

Carroll, Christopher; Rick, Jo; Pilgrim, Hazel; Cameron, Jackie; Hillage, Jim

2010-01-01

Long-term sickness absence among workers is a major problem in industrialised countries. The aim of the review is to determine whether interventions involving the workplace are more effective and cost-effective at helping employees on sick leave return to work than those that do not involve the workplace at all. A systematic review of controlled intervention studies and economic evaluations. Sixteen electronic databases and grey literature sources were searched, and reference and citation tracking was performed on included publications. A narrative synthesis was performed. Ten articles were found reporting nine trials from Europe and Canada, and four articles were found evaluating the cost-effectiveness of interventions. The population in eight trials suffered from back pain and related musculoskeletal conditions. Interventions involving employees, health practitioners and employers working together, to implement work modifications for the absentee, were more consistently effective than other interventions. Early intervention was also found to be effective. The majority of trials were of good or moderate quality. Economic evaluations indicated that interventions with a workplace component are likely to be more cost effective than those without. Stakeholder participation and work modification are more effective and cost effective at returning to work adults with musculoskeletal conditions than other workplace-linked interventions, including exercise.

An expectancy-value theory approach to the long-term modification of smoking behavior.

PubMed

Rogers, R W; Deckner, C W; Mewborn, C R

1978-04-01

Despite the research interest in modifying smoking behavior, therapeutic treatments that can produce long-term cessation have not been demonstrated rigorously. A follow-up study of two attitude change experiments (N = 173) examined the effects of a fear appeal, that is, increasing smokers' awareness and appreciation of the highly noxious consequences of smoking. Although this familiar type of information may be an integral component of many smoking treatment programs, its long-term suppressive effect has not been demonstrated in well-controlled experiments. The results disclosed that 3 months and also 1 year after treatment, a high-fear manipulation had increased significantly the percentage of smokers who were able to stop smoking completely.

14 CFR 129.109 - Supplemental inspections for U.S.-registered aircraft.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... for airplane structure susceptible to fatigue cracking that could contribute to a catastrophic failure. For the purpose of this section, this structure is termed “fatigue critical structure.” (2) Adverse... means for addressing the adverse effects repairs, alterations, and modifications may have on fatigue...

Summary of studies supporting cumulative effects analysis of upper Yellowstone River channel modifications

USGS Publications Warehouse

Auble, Gregor T.; Bowen, Zachary H.; Bovee, Ken D.; Farmer, Adrian H.; Sexton, Natalie R.; Waddle, Terry J.

2004-01-01

The largest portion of the document is an Appendix that summarizes each of the individual scientific studies in terms of scope and methods, findings, principal variables, and metrics used in the study or suggested by the study results, and important needs for further study.

ERK/MAPK Regulates Hippocampal Histone Phosphorylation Following Contextual Fear Conditioning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Levenson, Jonathan M.; Sweatt, J. David; Chwang, Wilson B.; O'Riordan, Kenneth J.

2006-01-01

Long-term memory formation is regulated by many distinct molecular mechanisms that control gene expression. An emerging model for effecting a stable, coordinated pattern of gene transcription involves epigenetic tagging through modifications of histones or DNA. In this study, we investigated the regulation of histone phosphorylation in the…

Chronic antioxidant therapy reduces oxidative stress in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease.

PubMed

Siedlak, Sandra L; Casadesus, Gemma; Webber, Kate M; Pappolla, Miguel A; Atwood, Craig S; Smith, Mark A; Perry, George

2009-02-01

Oxidative modifications are a hallmark of oxidative imbalance in the brains of individuals with Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and prion diseases and their respective animal models. While the causes of oxidative stress are relatively well-documented, the effects of chronically reducing oxidative stress on cognition, pathology and biochemistry require further clarification. To address this, young and aged control and amyloid-beta protein precursor-over-expressing mice were fed a diet with added R-alpha lipoic acid for 10 months to determine the effect of chronic antioxidant administration on the cognition and neuropathology and biochemistry of the brain. Both wild type and transgenic mice treated with R-alpha lipoic acid displayed significant reductions in markers of oxidative modifications. On the other hand, R-alpha lipoic acid had little effect on Y-maze performance throughout the study and did not decrease end-point amyloid-beta load. These results suggest that, despite the clear role of oxidative stress in mediating amyloid pathology and cognitive decline in ageing and AbetaPP-transgenic mice, long-term antioxidant therapy, at levels within tolerable nutritional guidelines and which reduce oxidative modifications, have limited benefit.

Machinability of Minor Wooden Species before and after Modification with Thermo-Vacuum Technology

PubMed Central

Sandak, Jakub; Goli, Giacomo; Cetera, Paola; Sandak, Anna; Cavalli, Alberto; Todaro, Luigi

2017-01-01

The influence of the thermal modification process on wood machinability was investigated with four minor species of low economic importance. A set of representative experimental samples was machined to the form of disks with sharp and dull tools. The resulting surface quality was visually evaluated by a team of experts according to the American standard procedure ASTM D-1666-87. The objective quantification of the surface quality was also done by means of a three dimensions (3D) surface scanner for the whole range of grain orientations. Visual assessment and 3D surface analysis showed a good agreement in terms of conclusions. The best quality of the wood surface was obtained when machining thermally modified samples. The positive effect of the material modification was apparent when cutting deodar cedar, black pine and black poplar in unfavorable conditions (i.e., against the grain). The difference was much smaller for an easy-machinability specie such as Italian alder. The use of dull tools resulted in the worst surface quality. Thermal modification has shown a very positive effect when machining with dull tools, leading to a relevant increment of the final surface smoothness. PMID:28772480

Machinability of Minor Wooden Species before and after Modification with Thermo-Vacuum Technology.

PubMed

Sandak, Jakub; Goli, Giacomo; Cetera, Paola; Sandak, Anna; Cavalli, Alberto; Todaro, Luigi

2017-01-28

The influence of the thermal modification process on wood machinability was investigated with four minor species of low economic importance. A set of representative experimental samples was machined to the form of disks with sharp and dull tools. The resulting surface quality was visually evaluated by a team of experts according to the American standard procedure ASTM D-1666-87. The objective quantification of the surface quality was also done by means of a three dimensions (3D) surface scanner for the whole range of grain orientations. Visual assessment and 3D surface analysis showed a good agreement in terms of conclusions. The best quality of the wood surface was obtained when machining thermally modified samples. The positive effect of the material modification was apparent when cutting deodar cedar, black pine and black poplar in unfavorable conditions (i.e., against the grain). The difference was much smaller for an easy-machinability specie such as Italian alder. The use of dull tools resulted in the worst surface quality. Thermal modification has shown a very positive effect when machining with dull tools, leading to a relevant increment of the final surface smoothness.

The effect of runway surface and braking on Shuttle Orbiter main gear tire wear

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Daugherty, Robert H.; Stubbs, Sandy M.

1992-01-01

In 1988, a 1067 m long touchdown zone on each end of the Kennedy Space Center (KSC) Shuttle Landing Facility (SLF) was modified from its original heavy-broom finish with transverse grooves configuration to a longitudinal corduroy surface texture with no transverse grooves. The intent of this modification was to reduce the spin-up wear on the Orbiter main gear tires and provide for somewhat higher crosswind capabilities at that site. The modification worked well, so it was proposed that the remainder of the runway be modified as well to permit even higher crosswind landing capability. Tests were conducted at the NASA Langley Aircraft Landing Dynamics Facility (ALDF) to evaluate the merit of such a modification. This paper discusses the results of these tests, and explains why the proposed modification did not provide the expected improvement and thus was not implemented. Also, in an ongoing program to evaluate the origin of various tire wear phenomenon, a series of tests was conducted to evaluate the effect of braking on tire wear. Finally, a modified tire is discussed in terms of its wear performance under rollout and braking operations.

Gait retraining using real-time feedback in patients with medial knee osteoarthritis: Feasibility and effects of a six-week gait training program.

PubMed

Richards, R; van den Noort, J C; van der Esch, M; Booij, M J; Harlaar, J

2018-06-20

The knee adduction moment (KAM) is often elevated in medial knee osteoarthritis (KOA). The aim of this study was to evaluate effects on KAM and patient-reported outcomes of a six-week gait training program. Twenty-one patients (61 ± 6 years) with KOA participated in a six-week biofeedback training program to encourage increased toe-in (all patients) and increased step-width (five patients). Patients received real-time visual feedback while walking on an instrumented treadmill. We analysed the effect of the gait modification(s) on peak KAM in week six and three and six months post-training. We also evaluated the effect on pain and functional ability. Of 21 patients starting the program, 16 completed it with high attendance (15 and 16 respectively) at the three and six month follow-ups. First peak KAM was significantly reduced by up to 14.0% in week six with non-significant reductions of 8.2% and 5.5% at the follow-ups. Functional ability (assessed using the WOMAC questionnaire) improved significantly after the training (eight point reduction, p = 0.04 in week six and nine point reduction, p = 0.04 at six-month follow-up). There was also a trend towards reduction in WOMAC pain (p = 0.06) at follow-up. Biofeedback training to encourage gait modifications is feasible and leads to short-term benefits. However, at follow-up, reductions in KAM were less pronounced in some participants suggesting that to influence progression of KOA in the longer term, a permanent regime to reinforce the effects of the training program is needed. Trial number: ISRCTN14687588. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Taking Another Look at Behavior Modification and Assertive Discipline.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Palardy, J. Michael

1996-01-01

Behavior modification and assertive discipline approaches use rewards and negative consequences (extinction procedures) to deal with students' maladaptive behavior. Behavior modification has significant limitations, as it treats symptoms, not causes; yields only short-term benefits; has limited transfer value for other environments; and values…

On asymptotic behavior of anisotropic branes with induced gravity inspired by L(R) term

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

Heydari-Fard, Malihe, E-mail: heydarifard@qom.ac.ir

2010-12-01

The DGP brane-world scenario provides the accelerated expansion of the universe at late-time by large-distance modification of general relativity without any need for dark energy. Using the method in reference [33], we investigate the asymptotic behavior of homogeneous and anisotropic cosmologies on a generalization of DGP scenario where the effective theory of gravity induced on the brane is given by a L(R) term. We show that for a constant induced curvature term on the brane all Bianchi models except type IX isotropize, like general relativity, if the effective energy density and E{sub ab} term satisfy some energy conditions. Finally, wemore » compare the result of the model with the result of anisotropic DGP branes and general relativity.« less

Generalized nucleation and looping model for epigenetic memory of histone modifications

PubMed Central

Erdel, Fabian; Greene, Eric C.

2016-01-01

Histone modifications can redistribute along the genome in a sequence-independent manner, giving rise to chromatin position effects and epigenetic memory. The underlying mechanisms shape the endogenous chromatin landscape and determine its response to ectopically targeted histone modifiers. Here, we simulate linear and looping-driven spreading of histone modifications and compare both models to recent experiments on histone methylation in fission yeast. We find that a generalized nucleation-and-looping mechanism describes key observations on engineered and endogenous methylation domains including intrinsic spatial confinement, independent regulation of domain size and memory, variegation in the absence of antagonists, and coexistence of short- and long-term memory at loci with weak and strong constitutive nucleation. These findings support a straightforward relationship between the biochemical properties of chromatin modifiers and the spatiotemporal modification pattern. The proposed mechanism gives rise to a phase diagram for cellular memory that may be generally applicable to explain epigenetic phenomena across different species. PMID:27382173

Clinical outcomes and cost-effectiveness of strategies for managing people at high risk for diabetes.

PubMed

Eddy, David M; Schlessinger, Leonard; Kahn, Richard

2005-08-16

Lifestyle modification can forestall diabetes in high-risk people, but the long-term cost-effectiveness is uncertain. To estimate the effects of the lifestyle modification program used in the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) on health and economic outcomes. Cost-effectiveness analysis using the Archimedes model. Published basic and epidemiologic studies, clinical trials, and Kaiser Permanente administrative data. Adults at high risk for diabetes (body mass index >24 kg/m2, fasting plasma glucose level of 5.2725 to 6.9375 mmol/L [95 to 125 mg/dL], 2-hour glucose tolerance test result of 7.77 to 11.0445 mmol/L [140 to 199 mg/dL]). 5 to 30 years. Patient, health plan, and societal. No prevention, DPP's lifestyle modification program, lifestyle modification begun after a person develops diabetes, and metformin. Diagnosis and complications of diabetes. Compared with no prevention program, the DPP lifestyle program would reduce a high-risk person's 30-year chances of getting diabetes from about 72% to 61%, the chances of a serious complication from about 38% to 30%, and the chances of dying of a complication of diabetes from about 13.5% to 11.2%. Metformin would deliver about one third the long-term health benefits achievable by immediate lifestyle modification. Compared with not implementing any prevention program, the expected 30-year cost/quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) of the DPP lifestyle intervention from the health plan's perspective would be about 143,000 dollars. From a societal perspective, the cost/QALY of the lifestyle intervention compared with doing nothing would be about 62,600 dollars. Either using metformin or delaying the lifestyle intervention until after a person develops diabetes would be more cost-effective, costing about 35,400 dollars or 24,500 dollars per QALY gained, respectively, compared with no program. Compared with delaying the lifestyle program until after diabetes is diagnosed, the marginal cost-effectiveness of beginning the DPP lifestyle program immediately would be about 201,800 dollars. Variability and uncertainty deriving from the structure of the model were tested by comparing the model's results with the results of real clinical trials of diabetes and its complications. The most critical element of uncertainty is the effectiveness of the lifestyle program, as expressed by the 95% CI of the DPP study. The most important potentially controllable factor is the cost of the lifestyle program. Compared with no program, lifestyle modification for high-risk people can be made cost-saving over 30 years if the annual cost of the intervention can be reduced to about 100 dollars. Results depend on the accuracy of the model. Lifestyle modification is likely to have important effects on the morbidity and mortality of diabetes and should be recommended to all high-risk people. The program used in the DPP study may be too expensive for health plans or a national program to implement. Less expensive methods are needed to achieve the degree of weight loss seen in the DPP.

Cutoff for extensions of massive gravity and bi-gravity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Matas, Andrew

2016-04-01

Recently there has been interest in extending ghost-free massive gravity, bi-gravity, and multi-gravity by including non-standard kinetic terms and matter couplings. We first review recent proposals for this class of extensions, emphasizing how modifications of the kinetic and potential structure of the graviton and modifications of the coupling to matter are related. We then generalize existing no-go arguments in the metric language to the vielbein language in second-order form. We give an ADM argument to show that the most promising extensions to the kinetic term and matter coupling contain a Boulware-Deser ghost. However, as recently emphasized, we may still be able to view these extensions as effective field theories below some cutoff scale. To address this possibility, we show that there is a decoupling limit where a ghost appears for a wide class of matter couplings and kinetic terms. In particular, we show that there is a decoupling limit where the linear effective vielbein matter coupling contains a ghost. Using the insight we gain from this decoupling limit analysis, we place an upper bound on the cutoff for the linear effective vielbein coupling. This result can be generalized to new kinetic interactions in the vielbein language in second-order form. Combined with recent results, this provides a strong uniqueness argument on the form of ghost-free massive gravity, bi-gravity, and multi-gravity.

Source term evaluation for combustion modeling

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sussman, Myles A.

1993-01-01

A modification is developed for application to the source terms used in combustion modeling. The modification accounts for the error of the finite difference scheme in regions where chain-branching chemical reactions produce exponential growth of species densities. The modification is first applied to a one-dimensional scalar model problem. It is then generalized to multiple chemical species, and used in quasi-one-dimensional computations of shock-induced combustion in a channel. Grid refinement studies demonstrate the improved accuracy of the method using this modification. The algorithm is applied in two spatial dimensions and used in simulations of steady and unsteady shock-induced combustion. Comparisons with ballistic range experiments give confidence in the numerical technique and the 9-species hydrogen-air chemistry model.

Seasonal and temperature modifications of the association between fine particulate air pollution and cardiovascular hospitalization in New York state.

PubMed

Hsu, Wan-Hsiang; Hwang, Syni-An; Kinney, Patrick L; Lin, Shao

2017-02-01

It is known that extreme temperature and ambient air pollution are each independently associated with human health outcomes. However, findings from the few studies that have examined modified effects by seasons and the interaction between air pollution and temperature on health endpoints are inconsistent. This study examines the effects of short-term PM 2.5 (particulate matter less than or equal to 2.5μm in aerodynamic diameter) on hospitalization for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), its modifications by season and temperature, and whether these effects are heterogeneous across different regions in New York State (NYS). We used daily average temperature and PM 2.5 concentrations as exposure indicators and performed a time series analysis with a quasi-Poisson model, controlling for possible confounders, such as time-relevant variables and dew point, for CVDs in NYS, 1991-2006. Stratification parametric models were applied to evaluate the modifying effects by seasons and temperature. Across the whole year, a 10-μg/m 3 increment in PM 2.5 concentration accounted for a 1.37% increase in CVDs (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.90%, 1.84%) in New York City, Long Island & Hudson. The PM 2.5 effect was strongest in winter, with an additional 2.06% (95% CI: 1.33%, 2.80%) increase in CVDs observed per 10-μg/m 3 increment in PM 2.5 . Temperature modified the PM 2.5 effects on CVDs, and these modifications by temperature on PM 2.5 effects on CVDs were found at low temperature days. These associations were heterogeneous across four PM 2.5 concentration regions. PM 2.5 was positively associated with CVD hospitalizations. The short-term PM 2.5 effect varied with season and temperature levels, and stronger effects were observed in winter and at low temperature days. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Postnatal epigenetic modification of glucocorticoid receptor gene in preterm infants: a prospective cohort study

PubMed Central

Kantake, Masato; Yoshitake, Hiroshi; Ishikawa, Hitoshi; Araki, Yoshihiko; Shimizu, Toshiaki

2014-01-01

Objective To examine the environmental effects on cytosine methylation of preterm infant's DNA, because early life experiences are considered to influence the physiological and mental health of an individual through epigenetic modification of DNA. Design A prospective cohort study, comparison of epigenetic differences in the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) gene between healthy term and preterm infants. Setting Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in a Japanese University Hospital. Participants A cohort of 40 (20 term and 20 preterm) infants was recruited on the day of birth, and peripheral blood was obtained from each infant at birth and on postnatal day 4. Main outcome measures The methylation rates in the 1-F promoter region of the GR gene using the Mquant method. Results The methylation rate increased significantly between postnatal days 0 and 4 in preterm infants but remained stable in term infants. Thus, the methylation rate was significantly higher in preterm than in term infants at postnatal day 4. Several perinatal parameters were significantly correlated with this change in the methylation rate. Logistic regression analysis revealed that methylation rates at postnatal day 4 predicted the occurrence of later complications that required glucocorticoid administration during the neonatal period. No gene polymorphism was detected within the GR promoter region analysed. Conclusions Although further large-scale studies are needed to detect the environmental factors that explain the difference in epigenetic modification among infants after birth, our data show that the postnatal environment influences epigenetic programming of GR expression through methylation of the GR gene promoter in premature infants, which may result in relative glucocorticoid insufficiency during the postnatal period. PMID:25023132

Enhancing Reactivity in Structural Energetic Materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Glumac, Nick

2017-06-01

In many structural energetic materials, only a small fraction of the metal oxidizes, and yet this provides a significant boost in the overall energy release of the system. Different methodologies to enhance this reactivity include alloying and geometric modifications of microstructure of the reactive material (RM). In this presentation, we present the results of several years of systematic study of both chemical (alloy) and mechanical (geometry) effects on reactivity for systems with typical charge to case mass ratios. Alloys of aluminum with magnesium and lithium are considered, as these are common alloys in aerospace applications. In terms of geometric modifications, we consider surface texturing, inclusion of dense additives, and inclusion of voids. In all modifications, a measurable influence on output is observed, and this influence is related to the fragment size distribution measured from the observed residue. Support from DTRA is gratefully acknowledged.

Epigenetic programming at the Mogat1 locus may link neonatal overnutrition with long-term hepatic steatosis and insulin resistance.

PubMed

Ramon-Krauel, Marta; Pentinat, Thais; Bloks, Vincent W; Cebrià, Judith; Ribo, Silvia; Pérez-Wienese, Ricky; Vilà, Maria; Palacios-Marin, Ivonne; Fernández-Pérez, Antonio; Vallejo, Mario; Téllez, Noèlia; Rodríguez, Miguel Àngel; Yanes, Oscar; Lerin, Carles; Díaz, Rubén; Plosch, Torsten; Tietge, Uwe J F; Jimenez-Chillaron, Josep C

2018-05-29

Postnatal overfeeding increases the risk of chronic diseases later in life, including obesity, insulin resistance, hepatic steatosis, and type 2 diabetes. Epigenetic mechanisms might underlie the long-lasting effects associated with early nutrition. Here we aimed to explore the molecular pathways involved in early development of insulin resistance and hepatic steatosis, and we examined the potential contribution of DNA methylation and histone modifications to long-term programming of metabolic disease. We used a well-characterized mouse model of neonatal overfeeding and early adiposity by litter size reduction. Neonatal overfeeding led to hepatic insulin resistance very early in life that persisted throughout adulthood despite normalizing food intake. Up-regulation of monoacylglycerol O-acyltransferase ( Mogat) 1 conceivably mediates hepatic steatosis and insulin resistance through increasing intracellular diacylglycerol content. Early and sustained deregulation of Mogat1 was associated with a combination of histone modifications that might favor Mogat1 expression. In sum, postnatal overfeeding causes extremely rapid derangements of hepatic insulin sensitivity that remain relatively stable until adulthood. Epigenetic mechanisms, particularly histone modifications, could contribute to such long-lasting effects. Our data suggest that targeting hepatic monoacylglycerol acyltransferase activity during early life might provide a novel strategy to improve hepatic insulin sensitivity and prevent late-onset insulin resistance and fatty liver disease.-Ramon-Krauel, M., Pentinat, T., Bloks, V. W., Cebrià, J., Ribo, S., Pérez-Wienese, R., Vilà, M., Palacios-Marin, I., Fernández-Pérez, A., Vallejo, M., Téllez, N., Rodríguez, M. À., Yanes, O., Lerin, C., Díaz, R., Plosch, T., Tietge, U. J. F., Jimenez-Chillaron, J. C. Epigenetic programming at the Mogat1 locus may link neonatal overnutrition with long-term hepatic steatosis and insulin resistance.

Effect of Baseline Nutritional Status on Long-term Multivitamin Use and Cardiovascular Disease Risk

PubMed Central

Rautiainen, Susanne; Gaziano, J. Michael; Christen, William G.; Bubes, Vadim; Kotler, Gregory; Glynn, Robert J.; Manson, JoAnn E.; Buring, Julie E.

2017-01-01

Importance Long-term multivitamin use had no effect on risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in the Physicians’ Health Study II. Baseline nutritional status may have modified the lack of effect. Objective To investigate effect modification by various baseline dietary factors on CVD risk in the Physicians’ Health Study II. Design, Setting, and Participants The Physicians’ Health Study II was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial testing multivitamin use (multivitamin [Centrum Silver] or placebo daily) among US male physicians. The Physicians’ Health Study II included 14 641 male physicians 50 years or older, 13 316 of whom (91.0%) completed a baseline 116-item semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire and were included in the analyses. This study examined effect modification by baseline intake of key foods, individual nutrients, dietary patterns (Alternate Healthy Eating Index and Alternate Mediterranean Diet Score), and dietary supplement use. The study began in 1997, with continued treatment and follow-up through June 1, 2011. Interventions Multivitamin or placebo daily. Main Outcomes and Measures Major cardiovascular events, including nonfatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal stroke, and CVD mortality. Secondary outcomes included myocardial infarction, total stroke, CVD mortality, and total mortality individually. Results In total, 13 316 male physicians (mean [SD] age at randomization, 64.0 [9.0] years in those receiving the active multivitamin and 64.0 [9.1] years in those receiving the placebo) were observed for a mean (SD) follow-up of 11.4 (2.3) years. There was no consistent evidence of effect modification by various foods, nutrients, dietary patterns, or baseline supplement use on the effect of multivitamin use on CVD end points. Statistically significant interaction effects were observed between multivitamin use and vitamin B6 intake on myocardial infarction, between multivitamin use and vitamin D intake on CVD mortality, and between multivitamin use and vitamin B12 intake on CVD mortality and total mortality. However, there were inconsistent patterns in hazard ratios across tertiles of each dietary factor that are likely explained by multiple testing. Conclusions and Relevance The results suggest that baseline nutritional status does not influence the effect of randomized long-term multivitamin use on major CVD events. Future studies are needed to investigate the role of baseline nutritional biomarkers on the effect of multivitamin use on CVD and other outcomes. Trial Registration clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT00270647 PMID:28384735

Complex Riccati equations as a link between different approaches for the description of dissipative and irreversible systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schuch, Dieter

2012-08-01

Quantum mechanics is essentially described in terms of complex quantities like wave functions. The interesting point is that phase and amplitude of the complex wave function are not independent of each other, but coupled by some kind of conservation law. This coupling exists in time-independent quantum mechanics and has a counterpart in its time-dependent form. It can be traced back to a reformulation of quantum mechanics in terms of nonlinear real Ermakov equations or equivalent complex nonlinear Riccati equations, where the quadratic term in the latter equation explains the origin of the phase-amplitude coupling. Since realistic physical systems are always in contact with some kind of environment this aspect is also taken into account. In this context, different approaches for describing open quantum systems, particularly effective ones, are discussed and compared. Certain kinds of nonlinear modifications of the Schrödinger equation are discussed as well as their interrelations and their relations to linear approaches via non-unitary transformations. The modifications of the aforementioned Ermakov and Riccati equations when environmental effects are included can be determined in the time-dependent case. From formal similarities conclusions can be drawn how the equations of time-independent quantum mechanics can be modified to also incluce the enviromental aspects.

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

Martin-Aranda, Maria; Rementeria, Rosalia; Hackenberg, Robert Errol

Here, the goal of this paper is to analyse the effect of adding Al on the non-steady pearlite growth occurring in a Fe–C–Mn system. The results are discussed in terms of the partitioning of elements across the austenite/ferrite and austenite/cementite interfaces, and the modification of the pearlite driving force related to the change in carbon activity in austenite.

NERISK: AN EXPERT SYSTEM TO ENHANCE THE INTEGRATION OF PESTICIDES WITH ARTHROPOD BIOLOGICAL CONTROL

EPA Science Inventory

An expert system termed NERISK was developed to evaluate the effects of pesticides on arthropod predators and parasitoids in a variety of agroecosystems. ased on a shell system (RECOG) with minor coding modifications, the system was designed to let even a novice user access the v...

The Wicked Problem of Information Sharing in Homeland Security - A Leadership Perspective

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-06-01

filled environment. One such coping strategy termed emotion work, describes how analysts manage their feelings to display a public face or bodily ...in many aspects of Western culture but 56 Jeff Conklin, Dialogue Mapping : Building Shared...effective, whether modifications should be 60 Conklin, Dialogue Mapping : Building Shared Understanding

Optical response in Weyl semimetal in model with gapped Dirac phase

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mukherjee, S. P.; Carbotte, J. P.

2017-10-01

We study the optical properties of Weyl semimetal (WSM) in a model which features, in addition to the usual term describing isolated Dirac cones proportional to the Fermi velocity v F, a gap term m and a Zeeman spin-splitting term b with broken time reversal symmetry. Transport is treated within Kubo formalism and particular attention is payed to the modifications that result from a finite m and b. We consider how these modifications change when a finite residual scattering rate \

Stability enhancement of an atomic force microscope for long-term force measurement including cantilever modification for whole cell deformation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weafer, P. P.; McGarry, J. P.; van Es, M. H.; Kilpatrick, J. I.; Ronan, W.; Nolan, D. R.; Jarvis, S. P.

2012-09-01

Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is widely used in the study of both morphology and mechanical properties of living cells under physiologically relevant conditions. However, quantitative experiments on timescales of minutes to hours are generally limited by thermal drift in the instrument, particularly in the vertical (z) direction. In addition, we demonstrate the necessity to remove all air-liquid interfaces within the system for measurements in liquid environments, which may otherwise result in perturbations in the measured deflection. These effects severely limit the use of AFM as a practical tool for the study of long-term cell behavior, where precise knowledge of the tip-sample distance is a crucial requirement. Here we present a readily implementable, cost effective method of minimizing z-drift and liquid instabilities by utilizing active temperature control combined with a customized fluid cell system. Long-term whole cell mechanical measurements were performed using this stabilized AFM by attaching a large sphere to a cantilever in order to approximate a parallel plate system. An extensive examination of the effects of sphere attachment on AFM data is presented. Profiling of cantilever bending during substrate indentation revealed that the optical lever assumption of free ended cantilevering is inappropriate when sphere constraining occurs, which applies an additional torque to the cantilevers "free" end. Here we present the steps required to accurately determine force-indentation measurements for such a scenario. Combining these readily implementable modifications, we demonstrate the ability to investigate long-term whole cell mechanics by performing strain controlled cyclic deformation of single osteoblasts.

Modified Van der Waals equation and law of corresponding states

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhong, Wei; Xiao, Changming; Zhu, Yongkai

2017-04-01

It is well known that the Van der Waals equation is a modification of the ideal gas law, yet it can be used to describe both gas and liquid, and some important messages can be obtained from this state equation. However, the Van der Waals equation is not a precise state equation, and it does not give a good description of the law of corresponding states. In this paper, we expand the Van der Waals equation into its Taylor's series form, and then modify the fourth order expansion by changing the constant Virial coefficients into their analogous ones. Via this way, a more precise result about the law of corresponding states has been obtained, and the law of corresponding states can then be expressed as: in terms of the reduced variables, all fluids should obey the same equation with the analogous Virial coefficients. In addition, the system of 3 He with quantum effects has also been taken into consideration with our modified Van der Waals equation, and it is found that, for a normal system without quantum effect, the modification on ideal gas law from the Van der Waals equation is more significant than the real case, however, for a system with quantum effect, this modification is less significant than the real case, thus a factor is introduced in this paper to weaken or strengthen the modification of the Van der Waals equation, respectively.

Study report on modification of the long term circulatory model for the simulation of bed rest

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Leonard, J. I.; Grounds, D. J.

1977-01-01

Modifications were made of the circulatory, fluid, and electrolyte control model which was based on the model of Guyton. The modifications included separate leg compartments and the addition of gravity dependency. It was found that these modifications allowed for more accurate bed rest simulation by simulating changes in the orthostatic gradient and simulating the response to the fluid shifts associated with bed rest.

The Use of DNS in Turbulence Modeling

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mansour, Nagi N.; Merriam, Marshal (Technical Monitor)

1997-01-01

The use of Direct numerical simulations (DNS) data in developing and testing turbulence models is reviewed. The data is used to test turbulence models at all levels: algebraic, one-equation, two-equation and full Reynolds stress models were tested. Particular examples on the development of models for the dissipation rate equation are presented. Homogeneous flows are used to test new scaling arguments for the various terms in the dissipation rate equation. The channel flow data is used to develop modifications to the equation model that take into account near-wall effects. DNS of compressible flows under mean compression are used in testing new compressible modifications to the two-equation models.

tRNA modification profiles of the fast-proliferating cancer cells

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

Dong, Chao; Niu, Leilei; Song, Wei

Despite the recent progress in RNA modification study, a comprehensive modification profile is still lacking for mammalian cells. Using a quantitative HPLC/MS/MS assay, we present here a study where RNA modifications are examined in term of the major RNA species. With paired slow- and fast-proliferating cell lines, distinct RNA modification profiles are first revealed for diverse RNA species. Compared to mRNAs, increased ribose and nucleobase modifications are shown for the highly-structured tRNAs and rRNAs, lending support to their contribution to the formation of high-order structures. This study also reveals a dynamic tRNA modification profile in the fast-proliferating cells. In additionmore » to cultured cells, this unique tRNA profile has been further confirmed with endometrial cancers and their adjacent normal tissues. Taken together, the results indicate that tRNA is a actively regulated RNA species in the fast-proliferating cancer cells, and suggest that they may play a more active role in biological process than expected. -- Highlights: •RNA modifications were first examined in term of the major RNA species. •A dynamic tRNA modifications was characterized for the fast-proliferating cells. •The unique tRNA profile was confirmed with endometrial cancers and their adjacent normal tissues. •tRNA was predicted as an actively regulated RNA species in the fast-proliferating cancer cells.« less

Epigenomics.

PubMed

Gomase, Virendra S; Tagore, Somnath

2008-03-01

'Epigenomics' can be termed as the study of the effects of chromatin structure, including the higher order of chromatin folding and attachment to the nuclear matrix, packaging of DNA around nucleosomes, covalent modifications of histone tails and DNA methylation. This has evolved to include any process that alters gene activity without changing the DNA sequence, and leads to modifications that can be transmitted to daughter cells. It also leads to a better knowledge of the changes in the regulation of genes and genomes that occur in major psychosis. It may also aid in understanding why the same gene sequence may predispose an individual to schizophrenia or bipolar disorder and in other cases does not, and elucidate the molecular mechanisms of how harmful; environmental factors interact with the genome. Results from the work may further lead to new diagnostics and effective therapies.

Relativistic stellar stability: Preferred-frame effects

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ni, W.

1973-01-01

Possible preferred-frame effects on stellar stability were examined and no new instabilities were found. In particular, it is shown that: (1) Although terms linear in the preferred-frame velocity w (time-odd terms, analogous to viscosity and energy generation) change the shapes of the normal modes, their symmetry properties prevent them from changing the characteristic frequencies. Thus, no new vibrational or secular instabilities can occur. (2) Terms quadratic in w do not change either the shapes of the normal modes or the characteristic frequencies for radial pulsations. Thus, they have no influence on radial stability. (3) Terms quadratic in w do change both the normal modes and the characteristic frequencies of nonradial pulsations; but in the limit of a neutral mode these changes vanish. Hence, there is no modification of the criterion for convective stability, i.e., the standard Schwarzschild criterion remains valid.

Epigenetics: Beyond Chromatin Modifications and Complex Genetic Regulation1

PubMed Central

Eichten, Steven R.; Schmitz, Robert J.; Springer, Nathan M.

2014-01-01

Chromatin modifications and epigenetics may play important roles in many plant processes, including developmental regulation, responses to environmental stimuli, and local adaptation. Chromatin modifications describe biochemical changes to chromatin state, such as alterations in the specific type or placement of histones, modifications of DNA or histones, or changes in the specific proteins or RNAs that associate with a genomic region. The term epigenetic is often used to describe a variety of unexpected patterns of gene regulation or inheritance. Here, we specifically define epigenetics to include the key aspects of heritability (stable transmission of gene expression states through mitotic or meiotic cell divisions) and independence from DNA sequence changes. We argue against generically equating chromatin and epigenetics; although many examples of epigenetics involve chromatin changes, those chromatin changes are not always heritable or may be influenced by genetic changes. Careful use of the terms chromatin modifications and epigenetics can help separate the biochemical mechanisms of regulation from the inheritance patterns of altered chromatin states. Here, we also highlight examples in which chromatin modifications and epigenetics affect important plant processes. PMID:24872382

Cost-effectiveness of a complex workplace dietary intervention: an economic evaluation of the Food Choice at Work study

PubMed Central

Fitzgerald, Sarah; Murphy, Aileen; Kirby, Ann; Geaney, Fiona; Perry, Ivan J

2018-01-01

Objective To evaluate the costs, benefits and cost-effectiveness of complex workplace dietary interventions, involving nutrition education and system-level dietary modification, from the perspective of healthcare providers and employers. Design Single-study economic evaluation of a cluster-controlled trial (Food Choice at Work (FCW) study) with 1-year follow-up. Setting Four multinational manufacturing workplaces in Cork, Ireland. Participants 517 randomly selected employees (18–65 years) from four workplaces. Interventions Cost data were obtained from the FCW study. Nutrition education included individual nutrition consultations, nutrition information (traffic light menu labelling, posters, leaflets and emails) and presentations. System-level dietary modification included menu modification (restriction of fat, sugar and salt), increase in fibre, fruit discounts, strategic positioning of healthier alternatives and portion size control. The combined intervention included nutrition education and system-level dietary modification. No intervention was implemented in the control. Outcomes The primary outcome was an improvement in health-related quality of life, measured using the EuroQoL 5 Dimensions 5 Levels questionnaire. The secondary outcome measure was reduction in absenteeism, which is measured in monetary amounts. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis (Monte Carlo simulation) assessed parameter uncertainty. Results The system-level intervention dominated the education and combined interventions. When compared with the control, the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (€101.37/quality-adjusted life-year) is less than the nationally accepted ceiling ratio, so the system-level intervention can be considered cost-effective. The cost-effectiveness acceptability curve indicates there is some decision uncertainty surrounding this, arising from uncertainty surrounding the differences in effectiveness. These results are reiterated when the secondary outcome measure is considered in a cost–benefit analysis, whereby the system-level intervention yields the highest net benefit (€56.56 per employee). Conclusions System-level dietary modification alone offers the most value per improving employee health-related quality of life and generating net benefit for employers by reducing absenteeism. While system-level dietary modification strategies are potentially sustainable obesity prevention interventions, future research should include long-term outcomes to determine if improvements in outcomes persist. Trial registration number ISRCTN35108237; Post-results. PMID:29502090

Alcohol consumption and the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus: effect modification by hypercholesterolemia: the Third Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2005).

PubMed

Jang, Hyeongap; Jang, Won-Mo; Park, Jong-Heon; Oh, Juhwan; Oh, Mu-Kyung; Hwang, Soo-Hee; Kim, Yong-Ik; Lee, Jin-Seok

2012-01-01

While the protective nature of moderate alcohol consumption against diabetes mellitus is well known, inconsistent findings continue to be reported. The possibility of different mixes of effect modifiers has been raised as a reason for those inconsistent findings. Our study aim was to examine potential effect modifiers that can change the effect of alcohol consumption on type 2 diabetes. From data in the third Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 3,982 individuals over the age of 30 years who had not been diagnosed with diabetes were selected for inclusion in the study population. Breslow and Day's test and the Wald test between hypercholesterolemia and alcohol consumption in a multiple logistic regression model were used to assess effect modification. Odds ratios for diabetes stratified by alcohol consumption strata and assessed using Breslow and Day's tests for homogeneity indicated that hypercholesterolemia was not a significant confounding factor (p=0.01). However, the Wald test for interaction terms, which is a conservative method of effect modification, was significant (p=0.03). The results indicate that moderate alcohol consumption is not necessarily protective for type 2 diabetes mellitus, if a person has hypercholesterolemia. People who have hypercholesterolemia should be aware of the risk associated with alcohol consumption, a risk that contrasts with the reported protective effect of moderate alcohol consumption on diabetes.

Kinetic memory based on the enzyme-limited competition.

PubMed

Hatakeyama, Tetsuhiro S; Kaneko, Kunihiko

2014-08-01

Cellular memory, which allows cells to retain information from their environment, is important for a variety of cellular functions, such as adaptation to external stimuli, cell differentiation, and synaptic plasticity. Although posttranslational modifications have received much attention as a source of cellular memory, the mechanisms directing such alterations have not been fully uncovered. It may be possible to embed memory in multiple stable states in dynamical systems governing modifications. However, several experiments on modifications of proteins suggest long-term relaxation depending on experienced external conditions, without explicit switches over multi-stable states. As an alternative to a multistability memory scheme, we propose "kinetic memory" for epigenetic cellular memory, in which memory is stored as a slow-relaxation process far from a stable fixed state. Information from previous environmental exposure is retained as the long-term maintenance of a cellular state, rather than switches over fixed states. To demonstrate this kinetic memory, we study several models in which multimeric proteins undergo catalytic modifications (e.g., phosphorylation and methylation), and find that a slow relaxation process of the modification state, logarithmic in time, appears when the concentration of a catalyst (enzyme) involved in the modification reactions is lower than that of the substrates. Sharp transitions from a normal fast-relaxation phase into this slow-relaxation phase are revealed, and explained by enzyme-limited competition among modification reactions. The slow-relaxation process is confirmed by simulations of several models of catalytic reactions of protein modifications, and it enables the memorization of external stimuli, as its time course depends crucially on the history of the stimuli. This kinetic memory provides novel insight into a broad class of cellular memory and functions. In particular, applications for long-term potentiation are discussed, including dynamic modifications of calcium-calmodulin kinase II and cAMP-response element-binding protein essential for synaptic plasticity.

Adsorptive Removal of Metal Ions from Water using Functionalized Biomaterials.

PubMed

Deshpande, Kanchanmala

2017-01-01

Synthesis and modification of cost-effective sorbents for removing heavy metals from water resources is an area of significance. It had been reported that materials with biological origins, such as agricultural and animal waste, are excellent alternatives to conventional adsorbents due to their higher affinity, capacity and selectivity towards metal ions. These properties of biomaterials help to reduce or detoxify metal ions concentration in contaminated water to acceptable regulatory standards. Synthesis of novel, efficient, cost effective, eco-friendly biomaterials for heavy metal adsorption from water is still an area of challenge. In this comprehensive review, acompilation of patents as well as published articles is carried out to outline the properties of different biomaterials based on their precursors along withdetailed description of biomaterial morphology and various surface modification approaches. A detailed study of the performance of adsorbents and the role of physical and chemical modification in terms of enhancing their potential for metal adsorption from water is compiled here. The factors affecting adsorption behavior i.e., capacity and affinity of e biomaterials is also compiled. This paper presents a concise review of reported studies on the synthesis and modification of biomaterials, their use for heavy metal removal from waters and future prospects of this technology. Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.org.

Effects of Long-Term Starvation on a Host Bivalve (Codakia orbicularis, Lucinidae) and Its Symbiont Population▿

PubMed Central

Caro, Audrey; Got, Patrice; Bouvy, Marc; Troussellier, Marc; Gros, Olivier

2009-01-01

The bivalve Codakia orbicularis, hosting sulfur-oxidizing gill endosymbionts, was starved (in artificial seawater filtered through a 0.22-μm-pore-size membrane) for a long-term experiment (4 months). The effects of starvation were observed using transmission electron microscopy, fluorescence in situ hybridization and catalyzed reporter deposition (CARD-FISH), and flow cytometry to monitor the anatomical and physiological modifications in the gill organization of the host and in the symbiotic population housed in bacteriocytes. The abundance of the symbiotic population decreased through starvation, with a loss of one-third of the bacterial population each month, as shown by CARD-FISH. At the same time, flow cytometry revealed significant changes in the physiology of symbiotic cells, with a decrease in cell size and modifications to the nucleic acid content, while most of the symbionts maintained a high respiratory activity (measured using the 5-cyano-2,3-ditolyl tetrazolium chloride method). Progressively, the number of symbiont subpopulations was reduced, and the subsequent multigenomic state, characteristic of this symbiont in freshly collected clams, turned into one and five equivalent genome copies for the two remaining subpopulations after 3 months. Concomitant structural modifications appeared in the gill organization. Lysosymes became visible in the bacteriocytes, while large symbionts disappeared, and bacteriocytes were gradually replaced by granule cells throughout the entire lateral zone. Those data suggested that host survival under these starvation conditions was linked to symbiont digestion as the main nutritional source. PMID:19346359

Effect of reducing rotor blade inlet diameter on the performance of a 11.66-Centimeter radial-inflow turbine

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kofskey, M. G.; Haas, J. E.

1973-01-01

The effect of increased rotor blade loading on turbine performance was investigated by reducing rotor blade inlet diameter. The reduction was made in four stages. Each modification was tested with the same stator using cold air as the working fluid. Results are presented in terms of equivalent mass flow and efficiency at equivalent design rotative speed and over a range of pressure ratios. Internal flow characteristics are shown in terms of stator exit static pressure and the radial variation of local loss and rotor-exit flow angle with radius ratio. Included are velocity diagrams calculated from the experimental results.

Protein requirements for long term missions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stein, T. P.

1994-11-01

A key component of the diet for a space mission is protein. This first part of this paper reviews the reasons for emphasizing protein nutrition and then discusses what the requirements are likely to be. The second part discusses potential advantages of modifying these requirements and describes potential approaches to effecting these modifications based on well established ground based models.

Effect of Strontium Nitrate on Extremely Slow Strobe Compositions

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-01-01

SUBJECT TERMS Strobe Hang fire Flash Orion’s Flashing Guns 16. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF: 17. LIMITATION OF ABSTRACT 18. NUMBER OF... Guns Formulations .......................................................................2 2. Modifications of Orion’s Flashing Guns , Resulting...Flashing Guns ” (3). These compositions used barium nitrate as the oxidizer and magnalium as the fuel. Both also contained a substantial amount of sulfur

20 CFR 669.540 - Under what circumstances are the terms of the grantee's plan modified by the grantee or the...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... Department? (a) Plans must be modified to reflect the funding level for the second year of the designation cycle. We will provide instructions for when to submit modifications for second year funding, which will... its service delivery plan to reflect the effect of the waiver. ...

The Histone Deacetylase Inhibitor Valproic Acid Enhances Acquisition, Extinction, and Reconsolidation of Conditioned Fear

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bredy, Timothy W.; Barad, Mark

2008-01-01

Histone modifications contribute to the epigenetic regulation of gene expression, a process now recognized to be important for the consolidation of long-term memory. Valproic acid (VPA), used for many years as an anticonvulsant and a mood stabilizer, has effects on learning and memory and enhances the extinction of conditioned fear through its…

Histone Deacetylase Inhibition Facilitates Massed Pattern-Induced Synaptic Plasticity and Memory

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pandey, Kiran; Sharma, Kaushik P.; Sharma, Shiv K.

2015-01-01

Massed training is less effective for long-term memory formation than the spaced training. The role of acetylation in synaptic plasticity and memory is now well established. However, the role of this important protein modification in synaptic plasticity induced by massed pattern of stimulation or memory induced by massed training is not well…

Associations of long-term exposure to air pollution and road traffic noise with cognitive function-An analysis of effect measure modification.

PubMed

Tzivian, Lilian; Jokisch, Martha; Winkler, Angela; Weimar, Christian; Hennig, Frauke; Sugiri, Dorothea; Soppa, Vanessa J; Dragano, Nico; Erbel, Raimund; Jöckel, Karl-Heinz; Moebus, Susanne; Hoffmann, Barbara

2017-06-01

Adverse effects of traffic-related air pollution (AP) and noise on cognitive functions have been proposed, but little is known about their interactions and the combined effect of co-exposure. Cognitive assessment was completed by 4086 participants of the population-based Heinz Nixdorf Recall cohort study using five neuropsychological subtests and an additively calculated global cognitive score (GCS). We assessed long-term residential concentrations for size-fractioned particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen oxides with land use regression. Road traffic noise (weighted 24-h (L DEN ) and night-time (L NIGHT ) means) was assessed according to the EU directive 2002/49/EC. Linear regression models adjusted for individual-level characteristics were calculated to estimate effect modification of associations between AP and noise with cognitive function. We used multiplicative interaction terms and categories of single or double high exposure, dichotomizing the potential effect modifier at the median (AP) or at an a priori defined threshold (road traffic noise). In fully adjusted models, high noise exposure increased the association of AP with cognitive function. For example, for an interquartile range increase of PM 2.5 (IQR 1.43), association s with GCS were: estimate (β)=-0.16 [95% confidence interval: -0.33; 0.01] and β=-0.48 [-0.72; -0.23] for low and high L DEN , respectively. The association of noise with GCS was restricted to highly AP-exposed participants. We observed stronger negative associations in those participants with double exposure compared to the addition of effect estimates of each single exposure. Our study suggests that AP and road traffic noise might act synergistically on cognitive function in adults. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Characterization of Cell Wall Components and Their Modifications during Postharvest Storage of Asparagus officinalis L.: Storage-Related Changes in Dietary Fiber Composition.

PubMed

Schäfer, Judith; Wagner, Steffen; Trierweiler, Bernhard; Bunzel, Mirko

2016-01-20

Changes in cell wall composition during storage of plant foods potentially alter the physiological effects of dietary fiber components. To investigate postharvest cell wall modifications of asparagus and their consequences in terms of insoluble dietary fiber structures, asparagus was stored at 20 and 1 °C for different periods of time. Structural analyses demonstrated postharvest changes in the polysaccharide profile, dominated by decreased portions of galactans. Increasing lignin contents correlated with compositional changes (monolignol ratios and linkage types) of the lignin polymer as demonstrated by chemical and two-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance (2D-NMR) methods. Depending on the storage time and temperature, syringyl units were preferentially incorporated into the lignin polymer. Furthermore, a drastic increase in the level of ester-linked phenolic monomers (i.e., p-coumaric acid and ferulic acid) and polymer cross-links (di- and triferulic acids) was detected. The attachment of p-coumaric acid to lignin was demonstrated by 2D-NMR experiments. Potential consequences of postharvest modifications on physiological effects of asparagus dietary fiber are discussed.

Modified gravity in Arnowitt-Deser-Misner formalism

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, Changjun

2010-02-01

Motivated by Hořava-Lifshitz gravity theory, we propose and investigate two kinds of modified gravity theories, the f(R) kind and the K-essence kind, in the Arnowitt-Deser-Misner (ADM) formalism. The f(R) kind includes one ultraviolet (UV) term and one infrared (IR) term together with the Einstein-Hilbert action. We find that these two terms naturally present the ultraviolet and infrared modifications to the Friedmann equation. The UV and IR modifications can avoid the past Big-Bang singularity and the future Big-Rip singularity, respectively. Furthermore, the IR modification can naturally account for the current acceleration of the Universe. The Lagrangian of K-essence kind modified gravity is made up of the three-dimensional Ricci scalar and an arbitrary function of the extrinsic curvature term. We find the cosmic acceleration can also be naturally interpreted without invoking any kind of dark energy. The static, spherically symmetry and vacuum solutions of both theories are Schwarzschild or Schwarzschild-de Sitter solution. Thus these modified gravity theories are viable for solar system tests.

An Efficient Electroporation Protocol for the Genetic Modification of Mammalian Cells

PubMed Central

Chicaybam, Leonardo; Barcelos, Camila; Peixoto, Barbara; Carneiro, Mayra; Limia, Cintia Gomez; Redondo, Patrícia; Lira, Carla; Paraguassú-Braga, Flávio; Vasconcelos, Zilton Farias Meira De; Barros, Luciana; Bonamino, Martin Hernán

2017-01-01

Genetic modification of cell lines and primary cells is an expensive and cumbersome approach, often involving the use of viral vectors. Electroporation using square-wave generating devices, like Lonza’s Nucleofector, is a widely used option, but the costs associated with the acquisition of electroporation kits and the transient transgene expression might hamper the utility of this methodology. In the present work, we show that our in-house developed buffers, termed Chicabuffers, can be efficiently used to electroporate cell lines and primary cells from murine and human origin. Using the Nucleofector II device, we electroporated 14 different cell lines and also primary cells, like mesenchymal stem cells and cord blood CD34+, providing optimized protocols for each of them. Moreover, when combined with sleeping beauty-based transposon system, long-term transgene expression could be achieved in all types of cells tested. Transgene expression was stable and did not interfere with CD34+ differentiation to committed progenitors. We also show that these buffers can be used in CRISPR-mediated editing of PDCD1 gene locus in 293T and human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. The optimized protocols reported in this study provide a suitable and cost-effective platform for the genetic modification of cells, facilitating the widespread adoption of this technology. PMID:28168187

Effect of tooth profile modification on wear in internal gears

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tunalioglu, M. S.; Tuc, B.

2018-05-01

Internal gears are often used in the automotive industry when two gears are required to rotate in the same direction. Tooth shapes, slippage speeds at the beginning and end of meshing are different according to the external gears. Manufacturing of internal gears is more difficult than external gears. Thus, it is necessary to determine the working conditions and wear behavior of internal gears carefully. The profile modification method in terms of strength and surface tension of the gear mechanism are performed in order to increase the load-carrying capability. In this study, profile modification method was performed in the internal gears to reduce the wear on the teeth. For this purpose, the wear of the internal gears was theoretically investigated by adapting the Archard wear equation to the internal gears. Closed circuit power circulation system was designed and manufactured to experimentally investigate the wear in internal gears. With this system, wear tests of gears made of St 50 material without profile modification and different profile modifications were made and the results were compared. Experimental study was performed in the same loading and cycle time conditions to validate the theoretical results and it was seen that the results are compatible. According to the experimental results, it is seen that in the internal gears, when profile modification done the wear is decreased in the teeth tip region.

Reduction of Surface Roughness by Means of Laser Processing over Additive Manufacturing Metal Parts.

PubMed

Alfieri, Vittorio; Argenio, Paolo; Caiazzo, Fabrizia; Sergi, Vincenzo

2016-12-31

Optimization of processing parameters and exposure strategies is usually performed in additive manufacturing to set up the process; nevertheless, standards for roughness may not be evenly matched on a single complex part, since surface features depend on the building direction of the part. This paper aims to evaluate post processing treating via laser surface modification by means of scanning optics and beam wobbling to process metal parts resulting from selective laser melting of stainless steel in order to improve surface topography. The results are discussed in terms of roughness, geometry of the fusion zone in the cross-section, microstructural modification, and microhardness so as to assess the effects of laser post processing. The benefits of beam wobbling over linear scanning processing are shown, as heat effects in the base metal are proven to be lower.

The effect of listenability factors on the comprehension of police cautions.

PubMed

Eastwood, Joseph; Snook, Brent

2012-06-01

We examined the extent to which modifying a police caution using three listenability factors (Instructions, Listing, and Explanations) improved comprehension. A 2 (Instructions vs. No Instructions) × 2 (Listing vs. No Listing) × 2 (Explanations vs. No Explanations) between-participants design was used. Participants (N = 160) were presented verbally with one of eight cautions and asked to record their understanding of the legal rights contained in the caution. Results showed a main effect of Explanations, thus suggesting that repeating the information contained in the caution in different terms increased comprehension. Partial support was also found for the hypothesized additive interactions of modifications, as the caution containing all three modifications resulted in the highest level of comprehension. The implications of these findings for the comprehension of police cautions, and verbally delivered information in general, are discussed.

Reduction of Surface Roughness by Means of Laser Processing over Additive Manufacturing Metal Parts

PubMed Central

Alfieri, Vittorio; Argenio, Paolo; Caiazzo, Fabrizia; Sergi, Vincenzo

2016-01-01

Optimization of processing parameters and exposure strategies is usually performed in additive manufacturing to set up the process; nevertheless, standards for roughness may not be evenly matched on a single complex part, since surface features depend on the building direction of the part. This paper aims to evaluate post processing treating via laser surface modification by means of scanning optics and beam wobbling to process metal parts resulting from selective laser melting of stainless steel in order to improve surface topography. The results are discussed in terms of roughness, geometry of the fusion zone in the cross-section, microstructural modification, and microhardness so as to assess the effects of laser post processing. The benefits of beam wobbling over linear scanning processing are shown, as heat effects in the base metal are proven to be lower. PMID:28772380

Effects of carbon and hafnium concentrations in wrought powder-metallurgy superalloys based on NASA 2B-11 alloy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miner, R. V., Jr.

1976-01-01

A candidate alloy for advanced-temperature turbine engine disks, and four modifications of that alloy with various C and Hf concentrations were produced as cross-rolled disks from prealloyed powder that was hot isostatically compacted. The mechanical properties, microstructures, and phase relations of the alloys are discussed in terms of their C and Hf concentrations. A low-C and high-Hf modification of IIB-11 had the best balance of mechanical properties for service below about 750 C. Because of their finer grain sizes, none of the powder-metallurgy alloys produced had the high-temperature rupture strength of conventionally cast and wrought IIB-11.

Modeling the CO2-effects of forest management and wood usage on a regional basis.

PubMed

Knauf, Marcus; Köhl, Michael; Mues, Volker; Olschofsky, Konstantin; Frühwald, Arno

2015-12-01

At the 15 th Conference of Parties of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, Copenhagen, 2009, harvested wood products were identified as an additional carbon pool. This modification eliminates inconsistencies in greenhouse gas reporting by recognizing the role of the forest and timber sector in the global carbon cycle. Any additional CO 2 -effects related to wood usage are not considered by this modification. This results in a downward bias when the contribution of the forest and timber sector to climate change mitigation is assessed. The following article analyses the overall contribution to climate protection made by the forest management and wood utilization through CO 2 -emissions reduction using an example from the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia. Based on long term study periods (2011 to 2050 and 2100, respectively). Various alternative scenarios for forest management and wood usage are presented. In the mid- to long-term (2050 and 2100, respectively) the net climate protection function of scenarios with varying levels of wood usage is higher than in scenarios without any wood usage. This is not observed for all scenarios on short and mid term evaluations. The advantages of wood usage are evident although the simulations resulted in high values for forest storage in the C pools. Even the carbon sink effect due to temporal accumulation of deadwood during the period from 2011 to 2100 is outbalanced by the potential of wood usage effects. A full assessment of the CO 2 -effects of the forest management requires an assessment of the forest supplemented with an assessment of the effects of wood usage. CO 2 -emission reductions through both fuel and material substitution as well as CO 2 sink in wood products need to be considered. An integrated assessment of the climate protection function based on the analysis of the study's scenarios provides decision parameters for a strategic approach to climate protection with regard to forest management and wood use at regional and national levels. The short-term evaluation of subsystems can be misleading, rendering long-term evaluations (until 2100, or even longer) more effective. This is also consistent with the inherently long-term perspective of forest management decisions and measures.

Cumulative Effects of Short-Term Polymetal Contamination on Soil Bacterial Community Structure

PubMed Central

Ranjard, L.; Lignier, L.; Chaussod, R.

2006-01-01

In this study we evaluated the short-term effects of copper, cadmium, and mercury, added singly or in combination at different doses, on soil bacterial community structure using the bacterial automated ribosomal intergenic spacer analysis (B-ARISA) fingerprinting technique. Principal-component analysis of B-ARISA profiles allowed us to deduce the following order of impact: (Cu + Cd + Hg) >> Hg ≥ Cd > Cu. These results demonstrated that there was a cumulative effect of metal toxicity. Furthermore, the trend of modifications was consistent with the “hump-backed” relationships between biological diversity and disturbance described by Giller et al. (K. E. Giller, E. Witler, and S. P. McGrath, Soil Biol. Biochem. 30:1389-1414, 1998). PMID:16461728

Is the authoritative parenting model effective in changing oral hygiene behavior in adolescents?

PubMed

Brukienė, Vilma; Aleksejūnienė, Jolanta

2012-12-01

This study examined whether the authoritative parenting model (APM) is more effective than conventional approaches for changing adolescent oral hygiene behavior. A total of 247 adolescents were recruited using a cluster random-sampling method. Subject groups were randomly allocated into an intervention group (APM-based interventions), a Control Group 1 (conventional dental education and behavior modification) or a Control Group 2 (conventional behavior modification). The results were assessed after 3 and 12 months. Oral hygiene level was assessed as percent dental plaque and the ratio of plaque percent change (RPC). At the 3-month follow-up, there were significant differences among the groups; the APM group had the largest decrease in plaque levels (24.5%), Control Group 1 showed a decrease in plaque levels of 15.4% and Control Group 2 showed an increase in plaque levels of 2.8%. At the 12-month follow-up, an improvement was observed in all groups, but there were no statistically significant differences among the groups. In the short term, the intervention based on the APM was more effective in changing adolescent oral hygiene behavior compared with the conventional approaches. The reasons for long-term positive change after discontinued interventions in control groups need to be explored in future studies.

Extension of the self-consistent-charge density-functional tight-binding method: third-order expansion of the density functional theory total energy and introduction of a modified effective coulomb interaction.

PubMed

Yang, Yang; Yu, Haibo; York, Darrin; Cui, Qiang; Elstner, Marcus

2007-10-25

The standard self-consistent-charge density-functional-tight-binding (SCC-DFTB) method (Phys. Rev. B 1998, 58, 7260) is derived by a second-order expansion of the density functional theory total energy expression, followed by an approximation of the charge density fluctuations by charge monopoles and an effective damped Coulomb interaction between the atomic net charges. The central assumptions behind this effective charge-charge interaction are the inverse relation of atomic size and chemical hardness and the use of a fixed chemical hardness parameter independent of the atomic charge state. While these approximations seem to be unproblematic for many covalently bound systems, they are quantitatively insufficient for hydrogen-bonding interactions and (anionic) molecules with localized net charges. Here, we present an extension of the SCC-DFTB method to incorporate third-order terms in the charge density fluctuations, leading to chemical hardness parameters that are dependent on the atomic charge state and a modification of the Coulomb scaling to improve the electrostatic treatment within the second-order terms. These modifications lead to a significant improvement in the description of hydrogen-bonding interactions and proton affinities of biologically relevant molecules.

Catecholaminergic consolidation of motor cortical neuroplasticity in humans.

PubMed

Nitsche, Michael A; Grundey, Jessica; Liebetanz, David; Lang, Nicolas; Tergau, Frithjof; Paulus, Walter

2004-11-01

Amphetamine, a catecholaminergic re-uptake-blocker, is able to improve neuroplastic mechanisms in humans. However, so far not much is known about the underlying physiological mechanisms. Here, we study the impact of amphetamine on NMDA receptor-dependent long-lasting excitability modifications in the human motor cortex elicited by weak transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). Amphetamine significantly enhanced and prolonged increases in anodal, tDCS-induced, long-lasting excitability. Under amphetamine premedication, anodal tDCS resulted in an enhancement of excitability which lasted until the morning after tDCS, compared to approximately 1 h in the placebo condition. Prolongation of the excitability enhancement was most pronounced for long-term effects; the duration of short-term excitability enhancement was only slightly increased. Since the additional application of the NMDA receptor antagonist dextromethorphane blocked any enhancement of tDCS-driven excitability under amphetamine, we conclude that amphetamine consolidates the tDCS-induced neuroplastic effects, but does not initiate them. The fact that propanolol, a beta-adrenergic antagonist, diminished the duration of the tDCS-generated after-effects suggests that adrenergic receptors play a certain role in the consolidation of NMDA receptor-dependent motor cortical excitability modifications in humans. This result may enable researchers to optimize neuroplastic processes in the human brain on the rational basis of purpose-designed pharmacological interventions.

Hippocampal dendritic spines modifications induced by perinatal asphyxia.

PubMed

Saraceno, G E; Castilla, R; Barreto, G E; Gonzalez, J; Kölliker-Frers, R A; Capani, F

2012-01-01

Perinatal asphyxia (PA) affects the synaptic function and morphological organization. In previous works, we have shown neuronal and synaptic changes in rat neostriatum subjected to hypoxia leading to long-term ubi-protein accumulation. Since F-actin is highly concentrated in dendritic spines, modifications in its organization could be related with alterations induced by hypoxia in the central nervous system (CNS). In the present study, we investigate the effects of PA on the actin cytoskeleton of hippocampal postsynaptic densities (PSD) in 4-month-old rats. PSD showed an increment in their thickness and in the level of ubiquitination. Correlative fluorescence-electron microscopy photooxidation showed a decrease in the number of F-actin-stained spines in hippocampal excitatory synapses subjected to PA. Although western blot analysis also showed a slight decrease in β-actin in PSD in PA animals, the difference was not significant. Taken together, this data suggests that long-term actin cytoskeleton might have role in PSD alterations which would be a spread phenomenon induced by PA.

Hippocampal Dendritic Spines Modifications Induced by Perinatal Asphyxia

PubMed Central

Saraceno, G. E.; Castilla, R.; Barreto, G. E.; Gonzalez, J.; Kölliker-Frers, R. A.; Capani, F.

2012-01-01

Perinatal asphyxia (PA) affects the synaptic function and morphological organization. In previous works, we have shown neuronal and synaptic changes in rat neostriatum subjected to hypoxia leading to long-term ubi-protein accumulation. Since F-actin is highly concentrated in dendritic spines, modifications in its organization could be related with alterations induced by hypoxia in the central nervous system (CNS). In the present study, we investigate the effects of PA on the actin cytoskeleton of hippocampal postsynaptic densities (PSD) in 4-month-old rats. PSD showed an increment in their thickness and in the level of ubiquitination. Correlative fluorescence-electron microscopy photooxidation showed a decrease in the number of F-actin-stained spines in hippocampal excitatory synapses subjected to PA. Although Western Blot analysis also showed a slight decrease in β-actin in PSD in PA animals, the difference was not significant. Taken together, this data suggests that long-term actin cytoskeleton might have role in PSD alterations which would be a spread phenomenon induced by PA. PMID:22645692

Persistence of antigen is required to maintain transplantation tolerance induced by genetic modification of bone marrow stem cells.

PubMed

Tian, C; Bagley, J; Iacomini, J

2006-09-01

Genetic modification of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) resulting in a state of molecular chimerism can be used to induce donor-specific tolerance to allografts. However, the requirements for maintaining tolerance in molecular chimeras remain unknown. Here, we examined whether long-term expression of a retrovirally encoded alloantigen in hematopoietic cells is required to maintain donor-specific tolerance in molecular chimeras. To this end, mice were reconstituted with syngeneic bone marrow transduced with retroviruses carrying the gene encoding the allogeneic MHC class I molecule Kb. Following induction of molecular chimerism, mice were depleted of cells expressing Kb by administration of the anti-Kb monoclonal antibody Y-3. Mice that were effectively depleted of cells expressing the retrovirally encoded MHC class I antigen rejected Kb disparate skin allografts. In contrast, control molecular chimeras accepted Kb disparate skin allografts indefinitely. These data suggest maintenance of tolerance in molecular chimeras requires long-term expression of retrovirally transduced alloantigen on the progeny of retrovirally transduced HSCs.

An evaluation of the generalization and maintenance of functional communication and self-control skills with preschoolers.

PubMed

Luczynski, Kevin C; Hanley, Gregory P; Rodriguez, Nicole M

2014-01-01

The preschool life skills (PLS) program (Hanley, Heal, Tiger, & Ingvarsson, 2007; Luczynski & Hanley, 2013) involves teaching social skills as a means of decreasing and preventing problem behavior. However, achieving durable outcomes as children transition across educational settings depend on the generalization and long-term maintenance of those skills. The purpose of this study was to evaluate procedures for promoting generalization and long-term maintenance of functional communication and self-control skills for 6 preschool children. When the children's social skills decreased across repeated observations during a generalization assessment, we incorporated modifications to the teaching procedures. However, the effects of the modifications were variable across skills and children. Satisfactory generalization was observed only after the teacher was informed of the target skills and teaching strategies. Maintenance of most social skills was observed 3 months after teaching was discontinued. We discuss the importance of improving child and teacher behavior to promote generalization and maintenance of important social skills. © Society for the Experimental Analysis of Behavior.

Oral medicine modification for older adults: a qualitative study of nurses

PubMed Central

Crean, Abina M; Kelly, Maria; Sahm, Laura

2017-01-01

Objective Oral medicines are frequently modified (eg, tablets crushed) for older adults. However, these modifications can have clinical, legal and/or ethical implications. Nurses bear responsibility for medicine administration and hence, perform these modifications. The aim of this study was to investigate the knowledge, attitudes and beliefs of nurses about oral medicine modification for older adults. Design A qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured, face-to-face interviews with nurses providing care to older adults in acute and long-term care settings. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically. Settings Sixteen purposively selected care settings; 4 acute-care and 12 long-term care settings were included. Nurses were recruited by convenience sampling at these sites. Participants Eighteen nurses participated (83% female, 67% long-term care, 33% acute-care, median age (IQR) 38 years (32.5–52.0)). Results Three major themes: modifying—a necessary evil, nurses’ role as patient advocate and modifying—we are working very much as a team and two minor themes: fractional dosing, and covert administration emerged from the data. Nurses viewed oral medicine modifications as being a routine and necessary occurrence in geriatric patient care due to limitations of available formulations and the presence of age-related challenges in drug administration. Nurses’ knowledge of residents’ requirements ensured that they advocate for those with individualised formulation needs, however, nurses rely on pharmacists for information about modifications. Nurses expressed a desire for supports including increased education and ward-specific, pharmacist-developed recommendations on common modifications. Conclusions This study has provided useful insights into the views of nurses regarding oral medicine modification for older adults. The unique and varied formulation requirements of older adults must be acknowledged. Increased engagement by healthcare professionals, the pharmaceutical industry, regulatory agencies and policy-makers is required to facilitate the development of age-appropriate formulations. In the interim, practical interventions, informed by the findings of this study, are required. PMID:29247094

Developing the Relation of Author to Idea, or, Curing the Student-Writer's Transference Neurosis.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Micham, Dennis L.

Meaningful use of language involves intending to have an effect and intending the audience to recognize that aim. In a Freudian modification of this premise, allowing for different levels of intentional awareness, writing can be discussed in terms of how writers intend to affect readers, as well as how aware they are themselves of their intentions…

Female stress urinary incontinence: standard techniques revisited and critical evaluation of innovative techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

de Riese, Cornelia; de Riese, Werner T. W.

2003-06-01

Objectives: The treatment of female urinary incontinence (UI) is a growing health care concern in our aging society. Publications of recent innovations and modifications are creating expectations. This brief review provides some insight and structure regarding indications and expected outcomes for the different approaches. Materials: Data extraction is part of a Medline data base search, which was performed for "female stress incontinence" from 1960 until 2000. Additional literature search was performed to cover 2001 and 2002. Outcome data were extracted. Results: (1) INJECTION OF BULKING AGENTS (collagen, synthetic agents): The indication for mucosal coaptation was more clearly defined and in the majority of articles limited to ISD. (2) OPEN COLPOSUSPENSION (Burch, MMK): Best long-term results of all operative procedures, to date considered the gold standard. (3) LAPAROSCOPIC COLPOSUSPENSION (different modifications): Long-term success rates appear dependent on operator skills. There are few long-term data. (4) NEEDLE SUSPENSION: (Stamey, Pareyra and modifications): Initial results were equal to Burch with less morbidity, but long-term success rates are worse. (5) SLING PROCEDURES (autologous, synthetic, allogenic graft materials, different modes of support and anchoring, free tapes): The suburethral sling has traditionally been considered a procedure for those in whom suspension had failed and for those with severe ISD. The most current trend shows its use as a primary procedure for SUI. Long-term data beyond 5 years are insufficient. (6) EXTERNAL OCCLUSIVE DEVICES (vaginal sponges and pessaries, urethral insert): Both vaginal and urethral insert devices can be effective in selected patients. (7) IMPLANTABLE ARTEFICIAL URETHRAL SPHINCTERS: Modifications and improvements of the devices resulted in improved clinical results regarding durability and efficacy. CONCLUSION: (1) The Burch colposuspension is still considered the gold standard in the treatment of female genuine SUI. There is a trend for the suburethral sling to be used as the primary procedure for this indication. Early outcome data are encouraging. New concepts such as use of metalic bone anchors and allograft material as well as the Tension free Vaginal Tape are under investigation. (2) Standardization of diagnostic and therapeutic interventions is prerequisite for any meaningful research. Randomized controlled prospective studies are essential to provide objectives regarding risks and benefits of new procedures and materials.

Surface modification and endothelialization of biomaterials as potential scaffolds for vascular tissue engineering applications.

PubMed

Ren, Xiangkui; Feng, Yakai; Guo, Jintang; Wang, Haixia; Li, Qian; Yang, Jing; Hao, Xuefang; Lv, Juan; Ma, Nan; Li, Wenzhong

2015-08-07

Surface modification and endothelialization of vascular biomaterials are common approaches that are used to both resist the nonspecific adhesion of proteins and improve the hemocompatibility and long-term patency of artificial vascular grafts. Surface modification of vascular grafts using hydrophilic poly(ethylene glycol), zwitterionic polymers, heparin or other bioactive molecules can efficiently enhance hemocompatibility, and consequently prevent thrombosis on artificial vascular grafts. However, these modified surfaces may be excessively hydrophilic, which limits initial vascular endothelial cell adhesion and formation of a confluent endothelial lining. Therefore, the improvement of endothelialization on these grafts by chemical modification with specific peptides and genes is now arousing more and more interest. Several active peptides, such as RGD, CAG, REDV and YIGSR, can be specifically recognized by endothelial cells. Consequently, graft surfaces that are modified by these peptides can exhibit targeting selectivity for the adhesion of endothelial cells, and genes can be delivered by targeting carriers to specific tissues to enhance the promotion and regeneration of blood vessels. These methods could effectively accelerate selective endothelial cell recruitment and functional endothelialization. In this review, recent developments in the surface modification and endothelialization of biomaterials in vascular tissue engineering are summarized. Both gene engineering and targeting ligand immobilization are promising methods to improve the clinical outcome of artificial vascular grafts.

The effects of gear reduction on robot dynamics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chen, J.

1989-01-01

The effect of the joint drive system with gear reduction for a generic two-link system is studied. It is done by comparing the kinetic energy of such a system with that of a direct drive two-link system. The only difference are two terms involving the inertia of the motor rotor and gear ratio. Modifications of the equations of motion from a direct drive system are then developed and generalized to various cases encountered in robot manipulators.

The effectiveness of workplace dietary modification interventions: a systematic review.

PubMed

Geaney, F; Kelly, C; Greiner, B A; Harrington, J M; Perry, I J; Beirne, P

2013-11-01

To evaluate the effectiveness of workplace dietary modification interventions alone or in combination with nutrition education on employees' dietary behaviour, health status, self-efficacy, perceived health, determinants of food choice, nutrition knowledge, co-worker support, job satisfaction, economic cost and food-purchasing patterns. Data sources included PubMed, Medline, Embase, Psych Info., Web of Knowledge and Cochrane Library (November 2011). This review was guided by the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) statement. Studies were randomised controlled trials and controlled studies. Interventions were implemented for at least three months. Cochrane Collaboration's risk of bias tool measured potential biases. Heterogeneity precluded meta-analysis. Results were presented in a narrative summary. Six studies conducted in Brazil, the USA, Netherlands and Belgium met the inclusion criteria. Four studies reported small increases in fruit and vegetable consumption (≤half serving/day). These studies involved workplace dietary modifications and three incorporated nutrition education. Other outcomes reported included health status, co-worker support, job satisfaction, perceived health, self-efficacy and food-purchasing patterns. All studies had methodological limitations that weakened confidence in the results. Limited evidence suggests that workplace dietary modification interventions alone and in combination with nutrition education increase fruit and vegetable intakes. These interventions should be developed with recommended guidelines, workplace characteristics, long-term follow-up and objective outcomes for diet, health and cost. © 2013.

Sulfur mustard-induced epigenetic modifications over time - a pilot study.

PubMed

Simons, Thilo; Steinritz, Dirk; Bölck, Birgit; Schmidt, Annette; Popp, Tanja; Thiermann, Horst; Gudermann, Thomas; Bloch, Wilhelm; Kehe, Kai

2018-09-01

The chemical warfare agent sulfur mustard (SM) can cause long-term health effects that may occur even years after a single exposure. The underlying pathophysiology is unknown, but epigenetic mechanisms are discussed as feasible explanation. "Epigenetics" depicts regulation of gene function without affecting the DNA sequence itself. DNA-methylation and covalent histone modifications (methylation or acetylation) are regarded as important processes. In the present in vitro study using early endothelial cells (EEC), we analyzed SM-induced DNA methylation over time and compared results to an in vivo skin sample that was obtained approx. one year after an accidental SM exposure. EEC were exposed to low SM concentrations (0.5 and 1.0μM). DNA methylation and histone acetylation (H3-K9, H3-K27, H4-K8) or histone di-methylation (H3-K9, H3-K27, H3-K36) were investigated 24h after exposure, and after 2 or 4 additional cell passages. The human skin sample was assessed in parallel. SM had only some minor effects on histone modifications. However, a significant and pronounced increase of DNA methylation was detected in the late cell passages as well as in the skin sample. Our results indicate that SM does indeed cause epigenetic modifications that appear to persist over time. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effects of Hardened Low-Water Crossings on Periphyton and Water Quality in Selected Streams at the Fort Polk Military Reservation, Louisiana, 1998-99 and 2003-04

USGS Publications Warehouse

Bryan, Barbara W.; Bryan, C. Frederick; Lovelace, John K.; Tollett, Roland W.

2007-01-01

In 2003, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), at the request of the U.S. Army Joint Readiness Training Center and Fort Polk, began a follow-up study to determine whether installation and modification of hardened low-water crossings had short-term (less than 1 year) or long-term (greater than 1 year) effects on periphyton or water quality in five streams at the Fort Polk Military Reservation, Louisiana. Periphyton data were statistically analyzed for possible differences between samples collected at upstream and downstream sites and before and after low-water crossings were modified on three streams, Big Brushy Creek, Tributary to East Fork of Sixmile Creek, and Tributary to Birds Creek, during 2003?04. Periphyton data also were analyzed for possible differences between samples collected at upstream and downstream sites on two streams, Tributary to Big Brushy Creek and Little Brushy Creek, during 1998?99 and 2003. Variations in periphyton communities could not be conclusively attributed to the modifications. Most of the significant changes in percent frequency of occurrence and average cell density of the 10 most frequently occurring periphyton taxa were increases at downstream sites after the hardened low-water crossing installations or modifications. However, these changes in the periphyton community are not necessarily deleterious to the community structure. Water-quality data collected from upstream and downstream sites on the five streams during 2003?04 were analyzed for possible differences caused by the hardened crossings. Generally, average water-quality values and concentrations were similar at upstream and downstream sites. When average water-quality values or concentrations changed significantly, they almost always changed significantly at both the upstream and downstream sites. It is probable that observed variations in water quality at both upstream and downstream sites are related to differences in rainfall and streamflow during the sample collection periods rather than an effect of the hardened low-water crossing installations or modifications, but additional study is needed.

Cost-effectiveness of a complex workplace dietary intervention: an economic evaluation of the Food Choice at Work study.

PubMed

Fitzgerald, Sarah; Murphy, Aileen; Kirby, Ann; Geaney, Fiona; Perry, Ivan J

2018-03-03

To evaluate the costs, benefits and cost-effectiveness of complex workplace dietary interventions, involving nutrition education and system-level dietary modification, from the perspective of healthcare providers and employers. Single-study economic evaluation of a cluster-controlled trial (Food Choice at Work (FCW) study) with 1-year follow-up. Four multinational manufacturing workplaces in Cork, Ireland. 517 randomly selected employees (18-65 years) from four workplaces. Cost data were obtained from the FCW study. Nutrition education included individual nutrition consultations, nutrition information (traffic light menu labelling, posters, leaflets and emails) and presentations. System-level dietary modification included menu modification (restriction of fat, sugar and salt), increase in fibre, fruit discounts, strategic positioning of healthier alternatives and portion size control. The combined intervention included nutrition education and system-level dietary modification. No intervention was implemented in the control. The primary outcome was an improvement in health-related quality of life, measured using the EuroQoL 5 Dimensions 5 Levels questionnaire. The secondary outcome measure was reduction in absenteeism, which is measured in monetary amounts. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis (Monte Carlo simulation) assessed parameter uncertainty. The system-level intervention dominated the education and combined interventions. When compared with the control, the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (€101.37/quality-adjusted life-year) is less than the nationally accepted ceiling ratio, so the system-level intervention can be considered cost-effective. The cost-effectiveness acceptability curve indicates there is some decision uncertainty surrounding this, arising from uncertainty surrounding the differences in effectiveness. These results are reiterated when the secondary outcome measure is considered in a cost-benefit analysis, whereby the system-level intervention yields the highest net benefit (€56.56 per employee). System-level dietary modification alone offers the most value per improving employee health-related quality of life and generating net benefit for employers by reducing absenteeism. While system-level dietary modification strategies are potentially sustainable obesity prevention interventions, future research should include long-term outcomes to determine if improvements in outcomes persist. ISRCTN35108237; Post-results. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2018. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

The effects of a pedometer-based behavioral modification program with telephone support on physical activity and sedentary behavior in type 2 diabetes patients.

PubMed

De Greef, Karlijn P; Deforche, Benedicte I; Ruige, Johannes B; Bouckaert, Jacques J; Tudor-Locke, Catrine E; Kaufman, Jean-Marc; De Bourdeaudhuij, Ilse M

2011-08-01

Effectiveness of a behavioral modification program on physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior in diabetes patients. Ninety-two patients were randomly assigned to an intervention or control group. The 24-weeks intervention consisted of a face-to-face session, pedometer and seven telephone follow-ups. Mean selection criteria were 35-75 years; 25-35 kg/m(2); ≤ 12% HbA1c, treated for type 2 diabetes; no PA limitations. PA and sedentary behavior were measured by pedometer, accelerometer and questionnaire over the short- (24 weeks) and intermediate- (1 year) term. The intervention group increased their steps/day by 2744, their total PA by 23 min/day (p<0.001) and decreased their sedentary behavior by 23 min/day (p<0.05) post-intervention. After 1 year the intervention group still had an increase of 1872 steps/day, 11 min/day total PA and a decrease of 12 min/day in sedentary behavior (p<0.001). This pedometer-based behavioral modification program with telephone support showed lasting positive effects on steps/day, PA and sedentary behavior. This study tested a convenient way to increase PA among type 2 diabetes patients. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Bispectrum from open inflation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sugimura, Kazuyuki; Komatsu, Eiichiro

2013-11-01

We calculate the bispectrum of primordial curvature perturbations, ζ, generated during ``open inflation.'' Inflation occurs inside a bubble nucleated via quantum tunneling from the background false vacuum state. Our universe lives inside the bubble, which can be described as a Friedmann-Lemaȋtre-Robertson-Walker (FLRW) universe with negative spatial curvature, undergoing slow-roll inflation. We pay special attention to the issue of an initial state for quantum fluctuations. A ``vacuum state'' defined by a positive-frequency mode in de Sitter space charted by open coordinates is different from the Euclidean vacuum (which is equivalent to the so-called ``Bunch-Davies vacuum'' defined by a positive-frequency mode in de Sitter space charted by flat coordinates). Quantum tunneling (bubble nucleation) then modifies the initial state away from the original Euclidean vacuum. While most of the previous study on modifications of the initial quantum state introduces, by hand, an initial time at which the quantum state is modified as well as the form of the modification, an effective initial time naturally emerges and the form is fixed by quantum tunneling in open inflation models. Therefore, open inflation enables a self-consistent computation of the effect of a modified initial state on the bispectrum. We find a term which goes as langleζk1ζk2ζk3ranglepropto1/k12k34 in the so-called squeezed configurations, k3 << k1 ≈ k2, in agreement with the previous study on modifications of the initial state. The bispectrum in the exact folded limit, e.g., k1 = k2+k3, is also enhanced and remains finite. However, these terms are exponentially suppressed when the wavelength of ζ is smaller than the curvature radius of the universe. The leading-order bispectrum is equal to the usual one from single-field slow-roll inflation; the terms specific for open inflation arise only in the sub-leading order when the wavelength of ζ is smaller than the curvature radius.

Physicochemical modifications accompanying UV laser induced surface structures on poly(ethylene terephthalate) and their effect on adhesion of mesenchymal cells.

PubMed

Rebollar, Esther; Pérez, Susana; Hernández, Margarita; Domingo, Concepción; Martín, Margarita; Ezquerra, Tiberio A; García-Ruiz, Josefa P; Castillejo, Marta

2014-09-07

This work reports on the formation of different types of structures on the surface of polymer films upon UV laser irradiation. Poly(ethylene terephthalate) was irradiated with nanosecond UV pulses at 193 and 266 nm. The polarization of the laser beam and the irradiation angle of incidence were varied, giving rise to laser induced surface structures with different shapes and periodicities. The irradiated surfaces were topographically characterized by atomic force microscopy and the chemical modifications induced by laser irradiation were inspected via micro-Raman and fluorescence spectroscopies. Contact angle measurements were performed with different liquids, and the results evaluated in terms of surface free energy components. Finally, in order to test the influence of surface properties for a potential application, the modified surfaces were used for mesenchymal stem cell culture assays and the effect of nanostructure and surface chemistry on cell adhesion was evaluated.

Electron beam induced damage in ITO coated Kapton. [Indium Tin Oxide

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Krainsky, I.; Gordon, W. L.; Hoffman, R. W.

1981-01-01

Data for the stability of thin conductive indium tin oxide films on 0.003 inch thick Kapton substrates during exposure of the surface to electron beams are reported. The electron beam energy was 3 keV and the diameter was about 0.8 mm. Thermal effects and surface modifications are considered. For primary current greater than 0.6 microamperes, an obvious dark discoloration with diameter approximately that of the beam was produced. The structure of the discolored region was studied with the scanning electron microscope, and the findings are stated. Surface modifications were explored by AES, obtaining spectra and secondary emission coefficient as a function of time for different beam intensities. In all cases beam exposure results in a decrease of the secondary yield but because of thermal effects this change, as well as composition changes, cannot be directly interpreted in terms of electron beam dosage.

The Howling Prescribed Natural Fire - long-term effects on the modernization of planning and implementation of wildland fire management

Treesearch

Tom Zimmerman; Laurie Kurth; Mitchell Burgard

2011-01-01

Wildland fire management policy and practices have long been driven by the occurrence of significant events. The Howling Prescribed Natural Fire in Glacier National Park in 1994 is a prime example of a significant historical fire event that provided the impetus for program changes and modifications that modernized wildland fire management at the local, regional, and...

29 CFR 2550.408b-1 - General statutory exemption for loans to plan participants and beneficiaries who are parties in...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... administered for the exclusive purpose of providing benefits to participants and beneficiaries of the plan. (ii) For the purpose of this regulation, the term “loan” will include any renewal or modification of an... exclusive purpose requirements of sections 403(c) and 404(a). In effect, the entire transaction is viewed as...

29 CFR 2550.408b-1 - General statutory exemption for loans to plan participants and beneficiaries who are parties in...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... administered for the exclusive purpose of providing benefits to participants and beneficiaries of the plan. (ii) For the purpose of this regulation, the term “loan” will include any renewal or modification of an... exclusive purpose requirements of sections 403(c) and 404(a). In effect, the entire transaction is viewed as...

29 CFR 2550.408b-1 - General statutory exemption for loans to plan participants and beneficiaries who are parties in...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... administered for the exclusive purpose of providing benefits to participants and beneficiaries of the plan. (ii) For the purpose of this regulation, the term “loan” will include any renewal or modification of an... exclusive purpose requirements of sections 403(c) and 404(a). In effect, the entire transaction is viewed as...

29 CFR 2550.408b-1 - General statutory exemption for loans to plan participants and beneficiaries who are parties in...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... administered for the exclusive purpose of providing benefits to participants and beneficiaries of the plan. (ii) For the purpose of this regulation, the term “loan” will include any renewal or modification of an... exclusive purpose requirements of sections 403(c) and 404(a). In effect, the entire transaction is viewed as...

The non-steady state growth of pearlite outside the Hultgren extrapolation

DOE PAGES

Martin-Aranda, Maria; Rementeria, Rosalia; Hackenberg, Robert Errol; ...

2016-12-14

Here, the goal of this paper is to analyse the effect of adding Al on the non-steady pearlite growth occurring in a Fe–C–Mn system. The results are discussed in terms of the partitioning of elements across the austenite/ferrite and austenite/cementite interfaces, and the modification of the pearlite driving force related to the change in carbon activity in austenite.

Studying radiolytic ageing of nuclear power plant electric cables with FTIR spectroscopy.

PubMed

Levet, A; Colombani, J; Duponchel, L

2017-09-01

Due to the willingness to extend the nuclear power plants length of life, it is of prime importance to understand long term ageing effect on all constitutive materials. For this purpose gamma-irradiation effects on insulation of instrumentation and control cables are studied. Mid-infrared spectroscopy and principal components analysis (PCA) were used to highlight molecular modifications induced by gamma-irradiation under oxidizing conditions. In order to be closer to real world conditions, a low dose rate of 11Gyh -1 was used to irradiate insulations in full cable or alone with a dose up to 58 kGy. Spectral differences according to irradiation dose were extracted using PCA. It was then possible to observe different behaviors of the insulation constitutive compounds i.e. ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) and aluminium trihydrate (ATH). Irradiation of insulations led to the oxidation of their constitutive polymers and a modification of filler-polymer ratio. Moreover all these modifications were observed for insulations alone or in full cable indicating that oxygen easily diffuses into the material. Spectral contributions were discussed considering different degradation mechanisms. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Determining the Location of DNA Modification and Mutation Caused by UVB Light in Skin Cancer

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-09-01

we obtain cleavage patterns consistent with the administered UV dosage and that sequencing libraries generated for both yeast and human cells show...understanding the mutations they cause. 15. SUBJECT TERMS UV DNA modification, HeLa cells, Skin Cancer 16. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF: 17...of mutations that are caused by UV light in cells and correlate them to modification frequencies. Understanding the initial chemical changes

Effects of heat waves on mortality: effect modification and confounding by air pollutants.

PubMed

Analitis, Antonis; Michelozzi, Paola; D'Ippoliti, Daniela; De'Donato, Francesca; Menne, Bettina; Matthies, Franziska; Atkinson, Richard W; Iñiguez, Carmen; Basagaña, Xavier; Schneider, Alexandra; Lefranc, Agnès; Paldy, Anna; Bisanti, Luigi; Katsouyanni, Klea

2014-01-01

Heat waves and air pollution are both associated with increased mortality. Their joint effects are less well understood. We explored the role of air pollution in modifying the effects of heat waves on mortality, within the EuroHEAT project. Daily mortality, meteorologic, and air pollution data from nine European cities for the years 1990-2004 were assembled. We defined heat waves by taking both intensity and duration into account. The city-specific effects of heat wave episodes were estimated using generalized estimating equation models, adjusting for potential confounders with and without inclusion of air pollutants (particles, ozone, nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide, carbon monoxide). To investigate effect modification, we introduced an interaction term between heat waves and each single pollutant in the models. Random effects meta-analysis was used to summarize the city-specific results. The increase in the number of daily deaths during heat wave episodes was 54% higher on high ozone days compared with low, among people age 75-84 years. The heat wave effect on high PM10 days was increased by 36% and 106% in the 75-84 year and 85+ year age groups, respectively. A similar pattern was observed for effects on cardiovascular mortality. Effect modification was less evident for respiratory mortality, although the heat wave effect itself was greater for this cause of death. The heat wave effect was smaller (15-30%) after adjustment for ozone or PM10. The heat wave effect on mortality was larger during high ozone or high PM10 days. When assessing the effect of heat waves on mortality, lack of adjustment for ozone and especially PM10 overestimates effect parameters. This bias has implications for public health policy.

Assessing the potential and side effects of ocean albedo modification in the Arctic

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mengis, N.; Oschlies, A.; Keller, D. P.; Martin, T.

2015-12-01

The ice albedo feedbacks in the Arctic are a key factor of the positive feedback mechanisms, which amplify climate change in the high northern latitudes. This study assesses the potential and side effects of an idealised Arctic ocean albedo modification (AOAM) experiment under varying emissions scenarios. A first finding is the fact that the decreasing trend in the Arctic summer sea ice extent could only be offset rather than reversed by the implementation of AOAM under increasing atmospheric CO2 emissions. What becomes evident in this study is that the Earth system regulates its internal heat budgets. Therefore a local cooling at the high northern latitudes causes compensatory heat fluxes in the atmosphere and the ocean. Meaning that firstly, the effectiveness of local scale climate intervention will, in the long term, be lowered by these compensatory fluxes and secondly that there are consequences, such as the subsurface warming signal found in this study, which are unexpected and unintended.

The ERM protein Moesin is essential for neuronal morphogenesis and long-term memory in Drosophila.

PubMed

Freymuth, Patrick S; Fitzsimons, Helen L

2017-08-29

Moesin is a cytoskeletal adaptor protein that plays an important role in modification of the actin cytoskeleton. Rearrangement of the actin cytoskeleton drives both neuronal morphogenesis and the structural changes in neurons that are required for long-term memory formation. Moesin has been identified as a candidate memory gene in Drosophila, however, whether it is required for memory formation has not been evaluated. Here, we investigate the role of Moesin in neuronal morphogenesis and in short- and long-term memory formation in the courtship suppression assay, a model of associative memory. We found that both knockdown and overexpression of Moesin led to defects in axon growth and guidance as well as dendritic arborization. Moreover, reduction of Moesin expression or expression of a constitutively active phosphomimetic in the adult Drosophila brain had no effect on short term memory, but prevented long-term memory formation, an effect that was independent of its role in development. These results indicate a critical role for Moesin in both neuronal morphogenesis and long-term memory formation.

15 CFR 908.1 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... SUBMITTING REPORTS ON WEATHER MODIFICATION ACTIVITIES § 908.1 Definitions. As used in this part, terms shall... contractor of the Federal government. (c) Weather modification activity. Any activity performed with the... territory or insular possession of the United States. (e) Persons whose activities relate to weather...

15 CFR 908.1 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... SUBMITTING REPORTS ON WEATHER MODIFICATION ACTIVITIES § 908.1 Definitions. As used in this part, terms shall... contractor of the Federal government. (c) Weather modification activity. Any activity performed with the... territory or insular possession of the United States. (e) Persons whose activities relate to weather...

15 CFR 908.1 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... SUBMITTING REPORTS ON WEATHER MODIFICATION ACTIVITIES § 908.1 Definitions. As used in this part, terms shall... contractor of the Federal government. (c) Weather modification activity. Any activity performed with the... territory or insular possession of the United States. (e) Persons whose activities relate to weather...

15 CFR 908.1 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... SUBMITTING REPORTS ON WEATHER MODIFICATION ACTIVITIES § 908.1 Definitions. As used in this part, terms shall... contractor of the Federal government. (c) Weather modification activity. Any activity performed with the... territory or insular possession of the United States. (e) Persons whose activities relate to weather...

15 CFR 908.1 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... SUBMITTING REPORTS ON WEATHER MODIFICATION ACTIVITIES § 908.1 Definitions. As used in this part, terms shall... contractor of the Federal government. (c) Weather modification activity. Any activity performed with the... territory or insular possession of the United States. (e) Persons whose activities relate to weather...

14 CFR 1274.938 - Modifications.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... Aeronautics and Space NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION COOPERATIVE AGREEMENTS WITH COMMERCIAL... the term of this agreement and in the interest of achieving program objectives, the parties may agree... agreement. Any changes to this agreement will be accomplished by a written bilateral modification. [End of...

Measuring functional service quality using SERVQUAL in a high-dependence health service relationship.

PubMed

Clark, W Randy; Clark, Leigh Anne

2007-01-01

Although there is a growing concern about health care quality, little research has focused on how to measure quality in long-term care settings. In this article, we make the following observations: (1) most users of the SERVQUAL instrument reassess customers' expectations each time they measure quality perceptions; (2) long-term care relationships are likely to be ongoing, dependent relationships; (3) because of this dependence, customers in the long-term care setting are likely to reduce their expectations when faced with poor service quality; (4) by using this "settled" expectations level, service providers may make biased conclusions of quality improvements. We recommend various methods for overcoming or minimizing this "settling" effect and propose modifications to the SERVQUAL gap 5 measure to assess quality in a long-term care setting.

A closed-form expression for the effect in breakthrough curves of biofilm development: enhanced dispersion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sanchez-Vila, X.; Rodriguez-Escales, P.

2017-12-01

It has been widely reported that biofilm growth changes the hydraulic parameters in porous media. While the impact upon reduction of hydraulic conductivity has been widely explained and modeled, this has not been the case for the reported order(s) of magnitude increase in dispersion coefficient even when a minute percentage of biofilm is formed, and despite the effect of biofilm growth is to reduce specific discharge, producing a somewhat counterintuitive result. We develop here a simple yet practical expression for the evaluation of an effective dispersion coefficient caused by biomass colonization, based on the modification of the breakthrough curves (in terms of temporal moments) with respect to the biofilm-free porous media. The advantage of the expression is that it is written in terms of observables that are relatively easy to measure in the lab or the field, contrarily to existing expressions that relate the effect to channelization resulting in tortuosity being the driving term of effective dispersion. We have tested our simplified expression in a number of reported sites, where enhanced dispersion of 1-2 orders of magnitude has been reported, indirectly showing the relative importance of the terms included in the expression.

14 CFR 420.47 - License modification.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 4 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false License modification. 420.47 Section 420.47 Aeronautics and Space COMMERCIAL SPACE TRANSPORTATION, FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION LICENSING LICENSE TO OPERATE A LAUNCH SITE License Terms and Conditions § 420.47 License...

Epigenetic modifications in 3D: Nuclear organization of the differentiating mammary epithelial cell

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

During the development of tissues, complex programs take place to reach terminally differentiated states with specific gene expression profiles. Epigenetic regulations such as, histone modifications and chromatin condensation have been implicated in the short and long-term control of transcription. ...

Food and plant bioactives for reducing cardiometabolic disease risk: an evidence based approach.

PubMed

Cicero, Arrigo F G; Fogacci, Federica; Colletti, Alessandro

2017-06-21

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are one of the major causes of mortality and disability in Western countries. Prevention is known to be the cornerstone to lessen the incidence of CVDs and also to reduce the economic burden of both the citizen and the healthcare system. "Interventional medicine" certainly puts lifestyle modification as the first therapeutic step, including a healthy diet and physical activity. Secondly, a large body of research individuated a number of food and plant bioactives, which are potentially efficacious in preventing and reducing some highly prevalent CV risk factors, such as hypercholesterolemia, hypertension, vascular inflammation and vascular compliance. Some lipid- and blood pressure-lowering bioactives were studied for their impact on human vascular health, particularly as regards endothelial function and arterial stiffness. Several nutraceuticals showed additive or synergistic properties in combination, sometimes (but not always) allowing a reduction of the administered dose of extracts and determining a "multi-factorial" final effect on many cardiovascular risk factors. Thus, this review focuses on available evidence regarding the effects of berberine, plant sterols, green tea extract, soy, curcumin, cocoa, pycnogenol, lycopene, olive oil, soluble fibers, garlic, resveratrol, beetroot, mineral salts and vitamins on the lipid profile, blood pressure, inflammatory and endothelial markers, and vascular compliance. Future clinical research studies will have to focus more on middle term modification of the instrumental markers of vascular aging than on short-term effects on indirect laboratory risk markers.

Effect of a very low-protein diet on outcomes: long-term follow-up of the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) Study.

PubMed

Menon, Vandana; Kopple, Joel D; Wang, Xuelei; Beck, Gerald J; Collins, Allan J; Kusek, John W; Greene, Tom; Levey, Andrew S; Sarnak, Mark J

2009-02-01

The long-term effect of a very low-protein diet on the progression of kidney disease is unknown. We examined the effect of a very low-protein diet on the development of kidney failure and death during long-term follow-up of the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) Study. Long-term follow-up of study B of the MDRD Study (1989-1993). The MDRD Study examined the effects of dietary protein restriction and blood pressure control on progression of kidney disease. This analysis includes 255 trial participants with predominantly stage 4 nondiabetic chronic kidney disease. A low-protein diet (0.58 g/kg/d) versus a very low-protein diet (0.28 g/kg/d) supplemented with a mixture of essential keto acids and amino acids (0.28 g/kg/d). Kidney failure (initiation of dialysis therapy or transplantation) and all-cause mortality until December 31, 2000. Kidney failure developed in 227 (89%) participants, 79 (30.9%) died, and 244 (95.7%) reached the composite outcome of either kidney failure or death. Median duration of follow-up until kidney failure, death, or administrative censoring was 3.2 years, and median time to death was 10.6 years. In the low-protein group, 117 (90.7%) participants developed kidney failure, 30 (23.3%) died, and 124 (96.1%) reached the composite outcome. In the very low-protein group, 110 (87.3%) participants developed kidney failure, 49 (38.9%) died, and 120 (95.2%) reached the composite outcome. After adjustment for a priori-specified covariates, hazard ratios were 0.83 (95% confidence interval, 0.62 to 1.12) for kidney failure, 1.92 (95% confidence interval, 1.15 to 3.20) for death, and 0.89 (95% confidence interval, 0.67 to 1.18) for the composite outcome in the very low-protein diet group compared with the low-protein diet group. Lack of dietary protein measurements during follow-up. In long-term follow-up of the MDRD Study, assignment to a very low-protein diet did not delay progression to kidney failure, but appeared to increase the risk of death.

43 CFR 3137.50 - What optional terms may I include in a unit agreement?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... following optional terms for a unit agreement if they promote additional development or enhanced production... modification; or (d) Other terms that BLM determines will promote the greatest economic recovery of oil and gas...

43 CFR 3137.50 - What optional terms may I include in a unit agreement?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... following optional terms for a unit agreement if they promote additional development or enhanced production... modification; or (d) Other terms that BLM determines will promote the greatest economic recovery of oil and gas...

Frustration of resonant preheating by exotic kinetic terms

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

Rahmati, Shohreh; Seahra, Sanjeev S., E-mail: srahmati@unb.ca, E-mail: sseahra@unb.ca

2014-10-01

We study the effects of exotic kinetic terms on parametric resonance during the preheating epoch of the early universe. Specifically, we consider modifications to the action of ordinary matter fields motivated by generalized uncertainty principles, polymer quantization, as well as Dirac-Born-Infeld and k-essence models. To leading order in an ''exotic physics'' scale, the equations of motion derived from each of these models have the same algebraic form involving a nonlinear self-interaction in the matter sector. Neglecting spatial dependence, we show that the nonlinearity effectively shuts down the parametric resonance after a finite time period. We find numeric evidence that themore » frustration of parametric resonance persists to spatially inhomogenous matter in (1+1)-dimensions.« less

Does behaviour modification affect post-stroke risk factor control? Three-year follow-up of a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

McManus, Julie Ann; Craig, Alison; McAlpine, Christine; Langhorne, Peter; Ellis, Graham

2009-02-01

Little is known about the long-term effectiveness after stroke of interventions for behaviour modification and ensuring concordance with therapies. We describe a follow-up study of a previous randomized controlled trial of a brief period of behaviour modification. The aim of this study was to determine outcomes three years after the initial intervention. Survivors of the original cohort were contacted and asked to attend for follow-up interview, within a geriatric day hospital. This study was carried out in the Geriatric Day Hospital at Stobhill Hospital, Balornock Road, Glasgow. Details of risk factor control, including blood pressure, cholesterol levels and diabetic control, were assessed. Questionnaires used in the initial study were repeated including the Geriatric Depression Scale score, Euroqol Perceived Health Status and Stroke Services Satisfaction Questionnaire. Primary outcome was collective risk factor control. Clinical outcomes including recurrent cerebrovascular events, medication persistence and perceived health status were also recorded. Mean length of follow-up was 3.6 years (SD 0.43). Of the 205 patients enrolled in the initial study, 102 patients attended for repeat interview(49 intervention/53 control). There were no significant differences in the percentage of controlled risk factors between groups (intervention 51.7% versus control 55.9%, P = 0.53). Similarities were observed in the number of recurrent clinical events and medication persistence between groups. No overall difference was observed in perceived health status, satisfaction with care or depression scores. Brief intervention with respect to behaviour modification and risk factor control does not appear to have any long-term benefit. These results must be cautiously interpreted in light of the small study number and further research is required.

27 CFR 447.11 - Meaning of terms.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... singular, and vice versa, and words imparting the masculine gender shall include the feminine. The terms..., operation, overhaul, repair, maintenance, modification, or reconstruction of defense articles, whether in...

27 CFR 447.11 - Meaning of terms.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... singular, and vice versa, and words imparting the masculine gender shall include the feminine. The terms..., operation, overhaul, repair, maintenance, modification, or reconstruction of defense articles, whether in...

27 CFR 447.11 - Meaning of terms.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... singular, and vice versa, and words imparting the masculine gender shall include the feminine. The terms..., operation, overhaul, repair, maintenance, modification, or reconstruction of defense articles, whether in...

27 CFR 447.11 - Meaning of terms.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... singular, and vice versa, and words imparting the masculine gender shall include the feminine. The terms..., operation, overhaul, repair, maintenance, modification, or reconstruction of defense articles, whether in...

27 CFR 447.11 - Meaning of terms.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... singular, and vice versa, and words imparting the masculine gender shall include the feminine. The terms..., operation, overhaul, repair, maintenance, modification, or reconstruction of defense articles, whether in...

Semiclassical anomalies of the quantum mechanical systems and their modifications for the asymptotic matching

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

Deniz, Coskun, E-mail: coskun.deniz@ege.edu.tr

JWKB solutions to the Initial Value Problems (IVPs) of the Time Independent Schrodinger's Equation (TISE) for the Simple Linear Potentials (SLPs) with a turning point parameter have been studied according to the turning points by graphical analysis to test the results of the JWKB solutions and suggested modifications. The anomalies happening in the classically inaccessible region where the SLP function is smaller than zero and the results of the suggested modifications, which are in consistent with the quantum mechanical theories, to remove these anomalies in this region have been presented. The origins of the anomalies and verifications of the suggestedmore » modifications showing a great success in the results have also been studied in terms of a suggested M{sub ij}=S{sup {approx}}{sub i-1,j} matrix elements made up of the JWKB expansion terms, S{sub i-1,j} (where i = 1, 2, 3 and j 1, 2). The results of the modifications for the IVPs and their application to the Bound State Problems (BSPs) with an example application of the Harmonic Oscillator (HO) have been presented and their generalization for any potential function have been discussed and classified accordingly.« less

Analytical Solution for the Anisotropic Rabi Model: Effects of Counter-Rotating Terms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Guofeng; Zhu, Hanjie

2015-03-01

The anisotropic Rabi model, which was proposed recently, differs from the original Rabi model: the rotating and counter-rotating terms are governed by two different coupling constants. This feature allows us to vary the counter-rotating interaction independently and explore the effects of it on some quantum properties. In this paper, we eliminate the counter-rotating terms approximately and obtain the analytical energy spectrums and wavefunctions. These analytical results agree well with the numerical calculations in a wide range of the parameters including the ultrastrong coupling regime. In the weak counter-rotating coupling limit we find out that the counter-rotating terms can be considered as the shifts to the parameters of the Jaynes-Cummings model. This modification shows the validness of the rotating-wave approximation on the assumption of near-resonance and relatively weak coupling. Moreover, the analytical expressions of several physics quantities are also derived, and the results show the break-down of the U(1)-symmetry and the deviation from the Jaynes-Cummings model.

Analytical solution for the anisotropic Rabi model: effects of counter-rotating terms.

PubMed

Zhang, Guofeng; Zhu, Hanjie

2015-03-04

The anisotropic Rabi model, which was proposed recently, differs from the original Rabi model: the rotating and counter-rotating terms are governed by two different coupling constants. This feature allows us to vary the counter-rotating interaction independently and explore the effects of it on some quantum properties. In this paper, we eliminate the counter-rotating terms approximately and obtain the analytical energy spectrums and wavefunctions. These analytical results agree well with the numerical calculations in a wide range of the parameters including the ultrastrong coupling regime. In the weak counter-rotating coupling limit we find out that the counter-rotating terms can be considered as the shifts to the parameters of the Jaynes-Cummings model. This modification shows the validness of the rotating-wave approximation on the assumption of near-resonance and relatively weak coupling. Moreover, the analytical expressions of several physics quantities are also derived, and the results show the break-down of the U(1)-symmetry and the deviation from the Jaynes-Cummings model.

Analytical Solution for the Anisotropic Rabi Model: Effects of Counter-Rotating Terms

PubMed Central

Zhang, Guofeng; Zhu, Hanjie

2015-01-01

The anisotropic Rabi model, which was proposed recently, differs from the original Rabi model: the rotating and counter-rotating terms are governed by two different coupling constants. This feature allows us to vary the counter-rotating interaction independently and explore the effects of it on some quantum properties. In this paper, we eliminate the counter-rotating terms approximately and obtain the analytical energy spectrums and wavefunctions. These analytical results agree well with the numerical calculations in a wide range of the parameters including the ultrastrong coupling regime. In the weak counter-rotating coupling limit we find out that the counter-rotating terms can be considered as the shifts to the parameters of the Jaynes-Cummings model. This modification shows the validness of the rotating-wave approximation on the assumption of near-resonance and relatively weak coupling. Moreover, the analytical expressions of several physics quantities are also derived, and the results show the break-down of the U(1)-symmetry and the deviation from the Jaynes-Cummings model. PMID:25736827

Attention and Cognitive Bias Modification Apps: Review of the Literature and of Commercially Available Apps

PubMed Central

Ying, JiangBo; Song, Guo; Fung, Daniel SS; Smith, Helen

2018-01-01

Background Automatic processes, such as attentional biases or interpretative biases, have been purported to be responsible for several psychiatric disorders. Recent reviews have highlighted that cognitive biases may be modifiable. Advances in eHealth and mHealth have been harnessed for the delivery of cognitive bias modification. While several studies have evaluated mHealth-based bias modification intervention, no review, to our knowledge, has synthesized the evidence for it. In addition, no review has looked at commercial apps and their functionalities and methods of bias modification. A review is essential in determining whether scientifically validated apps are available commercially and the proportion of commercial apps that have been evaluated scientifically. Objective The objective of this review was primarily to determine the proportion of attention or cognitive bias modification apps that have been evaluated scientifically and secondarily to determine whether the scientifically evaluated apps were commercially available. We also sought to identify commercially available bias modification apps and determine the functionalities of these apps, the methods used for attention or cognitive bias modification, and whether these apps had been evaluated scientifically. Methods To identify apps in the published literature, we searched PubMed, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and Scopus for studies published from 2000 to April 17, 2018. The search terms used were “attention bias” OR “cognitive bias” AND “smartphone” OR “smartphone application” OR “smartphone app” OR “mobile phones” OR “mobile application” OR mobile app” OR “personal digital assistant.” To identify commercial apps, we conducted a manual cross-sectional search between September 15 and 25, 2017 in the Apple iTunes and Google Play app stores. The search terms used to identify the apps were “attention bias” and “cognitive bias.” We also conducted a manual search on the apps with published evaluations. Results The effectiveness of bias modification was reported in 7 of 8 trials that we identified in the published literature. Only 1 of the 8 previously evaluated apps was commercially available. The 17 commercial apps we identified tended to use either an attention visual search or gamified task. Only 1 commercial app had been evaluated in the published literature. Conclusions This is perhaps the first review to synthesize the evidence for published mHealth attention bias apps. Our review demonstrated that evidence for mHealth attention bias apps is inconclusive, and quite a few commercial apps have not been validated scientifically. PMID:29793899

Attention and Cognitive Bias Modification Apps: Review of the Literature and of Commercially Available Apps.

PubMed

Zhang, Melvyn; Ying, JiangBo; Song, Guo; Fung, Daniel Ss; Smith, Helen

2018-05-24

Automatic processes, such as attentional biases or interpretative biases, have been purported to be responsible for several psychiatric disorders. Recent reviews have highlighted that cognitive biases may be modifiable. Advances in eHealth and mHealth have been harnessed for the delivery of cognitive bias modification. While several studies have evaluated mHealth-based bias modification intervention, no review, to our knowledge, has synthesized the evidence for it. In addition, no review has looked at commercial apps and their functionalities and methods of bias modification. A review is essential in determining whether scientifically validated apps are available commercially and the proportion of commercial apps that have been evaluated scientifically. The objective of this review was primarily to determine the proportion of attention or cognitive bias modification apps that have been evaluated scientifically and secondarily to determine whether the scientifically evaluated apps were commercially available. We also sought to identify commercially available bias modification apps and determine the functionalities of these apps, the methods used for attention or cognitive bias modification, and whether these apps had been evaluated scientifically. To identify apps in the published literature, we searched PubMed, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and Scopus for studies published from 2000 to April 17, 2018. The search terms used were "attention bias" OR "cognitive bias" AND "smartphone" OR "smartphone application" OR "smartphone app" OR "mobile phones" OR "mobile application" OR mobile app" OR "personal digital assistant." To identify commercial apps, we conducted a manual cross-sectional search between September 15 and 25, 2017 in the Apple iTunes and Google Play app stores. The search terms used to identify the apps were "attention bias" and "cognitive bias." We also conducted a manual search on the apps with published evaluations. The effectiveness of bias modification was reported in 7 of 8 trials that we identified in the published literature. Only 1 of the 8 previously evaluated apps was commercially available. The 17 commercial apps we identified tended to use either an attention visual search or gamified task. Only 1 commercial app had been evaluated in the published literature. This is perhaps the first review to synthesize the evidence for published mHealth attention bias apps. Our review demonstrated that evidence for mHealth attention bias apps is inconclusive, and quite a few commercial apps have not been validated scientifically. ©Melvyn Zhang, JiangBo Ying, Guo Song, Daniel SS Fung, Helen Smith. Originally published in JMIR Mhealth and Uhealth (http://mhealth.jmir.org), 24.05.2018.

Effectiveness of interventions to directly support food and drink intake in people with dementia: systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Abdelhamid, Asmaa; Bunn, Diane; Copley, Maddie; Cowap, Vicky; Dickinson, Angela; Gray, Lucy; Howe, Amanda; Killett, Anne; Lee, Jin; Li, Francesca; Poland, Fiona; Potter, John; Richardson, Kate; Smithard, David; Fox, Chris; Hooper, Lee

2016-01-22

Eating and drinking difficulties are recognised sources of ill health in people with dementia. In the EDWINA (Eating and Drinking Well IN dementiA) systematic review we aimed to assess effectiveness of interventions to directly improve, maintain or facilitate oral food and drink intake, nutrition and hydration status, in people with cognitive impairment or dementia (across all settings, levels of care and support, types and degrees of dementia). Interventions included oral nutrition supplementation, food modification, dysphagia management, eating assistance and supporting the social element of eating and drinking. We comprehensively searched 13 databases for relevant intervention studies. The review was conducted with service user input in accordance with Cochrane Collaboration's guidelines. We duplicated assessment of inclusion, data extraction, and validity assessment, tabulating data, carrying out random effects meta-analysis and narrative synthesis. Forty-three controlled interventions were included, disappointingly none were judged at low risk of bias. Oral nutritional supplementation studies suggested small positive short term but unclear long term effects on nutritional status. Food modification or dysphagia management studies were smaller and of low quality, providing little evidence of an improved nutritional status. Eating assistance studies provided inconsistent evidence, but studies with a strong social element around eating/drinking, although small and of low quality provided consistent suggestion of improvements in aspects of quality of life. There were few data to address stakeholders' questions. We found no definitive evidence on effectiveness, or lack of effectiveness, of specific interventions but studies were small and short term. People with cognitive impairment and their carers have to tackle eating problems despite this lack of evidence, so promising interventions are listed. The need remains for high quality trials tailored for people with cognitive impairment assessing robust outcomes. The systematic review protocol was registered (CRD42014007611) and is published, with the full MEDLINE search strategy, on Prospero.

Research in Behavior Modification; New Developments and Implications.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Krasner, Leonard, Ed.; Ullmann, Leonard P., Ed.

Fifteen articles by different authors discuss behavior modification in terms of research, training, and social application. Topics considered include the classification of behavioral pathology, the extension of learning principles to human behavior, studies of normal and deviant child behavior, operant conditioning of two speech-deficient boys,…

7 CFR 634.26 - Contract modifications.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

..., DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE LONG TERM CONTRACTING RURAL CLEAN WATER PROGRAM Participant RCWP Contracts § 634.26... thereof, or to accomplish equitable treatment with respect to other conservation, land-use, or water... water-quality plan. A contract may be modified only if it is determined that such modifications are...

7 CFR 634.26 - Contract modifications.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

..., DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE LONG TERM CONTRACTING RURAL CLEAN WATER PROGRAM Participant RCWP Contracts § 634.26... thereof, or to accomplish equitable treatment with respect to other conservation, land-use, or water... water-quality plan. A contract may be modified only if it is determined that such modifications are...

7 CFR 634.26 - Contract modifications.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

..., DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE LONG TERM CONTRACTING RURAL CLEAN WATER PROGRAM Participant RCWP Contracts § 634.26... thereof, or to accomplish equitable treatment with respect to other conservation, land-use, or water... water-quality plan. A contract may be modified only if it is determined that such modifications are...

7 CFR 634.26 - Contract modifications.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

..., DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE LONG TERM CONTRACTING RURAL CLEAN WATER PROGRAM Participant RCWP Contracts § 634.26... thereof, or to accomplish equitable treatment with respect to other conservation, land-use, or water... water-quality plan. A contract may be modified only if it is determined that such modifications are...

Review of Command and Control Models and Theory

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-09-01

or psychological pressures exerted with the intent to assure that an agent or group will respond as di- rected: (p. 88). Thus, while "command and...Organizational competence criteria are defined by using a modification to the criteria outlined by Bennis. Processes are then grouped in terms of wtich...1982) at- tempted to identify the skills and behaviors, used in battalion command and control groups , that contribute to effective performance. In

Male Infertility during Antihypertensive Therapy: Are We Addressing Correctly The Problem?

PubMed

Laganà, Antonio Simone; Vitale, Salvatore Giovanni; Iaconianni, Paola; Gatti, Simona; Padula, Francesco

2016-01-01

Male fertility significantly decreased in the last 50 years, as showed in several studies reporting a reduction of sperm counts per ml in the seminal fluid. Several "acute" pharmacological treatments, as antibiotics, could cause subclinical and temporary reduction of male fertility; conversely, long-term medical treatment may severely affect male fertility, although this effect could be considered transient in most of the cases. Thus, nowadays, several long-term pharmacological treatments may represent a clinical challenge. The association between several kind of antihypertensive drugs and reduction of male fertility has been showed in the mouse model, although the modification(s) which may alter this fine-regulated machinery are still far to be elucidated. Furthermore, well-designed observational studies and randomized controlled trials are needed to accurately define this association in human model, meaning a narrative overview synthesizing the findings of literature retrieved from searches of computerized databases. We strongly solicit future human studies (both observational and randomized clinical trials) on large cohorts with adequate statistical power which may clarify this possible association and the effects (reversible or permanent) of each drug. Furthermore, we suggest a close collaboration between general practitioners, cardiologists, and andrologists in order to choose the most appropriate antihypertensive therapy considering also patient's reproductive desire and possible risk for his fertility.

Orthotics Compared to Conventional Therapy and Other Non-Surgical Treatments for Plantar Fasciitis

PubMed Central

Lewis, Rebecca D.; Wright, Paul; McCarthy, Laine H.

2016-01-01

Clinical Question In adults with acute plantar fasciitis whose symptoms have not been relieved with the conventional regimen of NSAIDS, stretching and lifestyle modification, do the addition of orthotics (prefabricated or custom fitted) reduce pain and improve function compared with other non-surgical treatments (manipulative chiropractic, physical therapy and/or heel steroid injections)? Answer Yes. Studies have shown that orthotics, both prefabricated and custom fitted, reduce pain and improve function in adults with acute plantar fasciitis with few risks or side effects. Used alone or in addition to conventional therapy (NSAIDs, stretching, lifestyle modification), orthotics are effective and well tolerated by patients for short-term pain relief and improved function. Prefabricated orthotics are less costly and provide similar relief to more expensive custom orthotics. Level of Evidence of the Answer A Search Terms Plantar fasciitis, heel pain, treatment, orthotics, Limits Adult, human, English, Review, Randomized-Control Trials, Systematic Reviews, adults age 18 or more, publication dates 2004 to present. Date Search was Conducted January 16, 2014; updated January 20, 2015 Inclusion Criteria Recent published systematic reviews, randomized controlled, meta-analyses; adults with confirmed acute or recent diagnosis of plantar fasciitis. Exclusion Criteria Studies older than 10 years, children, adolescents less than 18 years of age, chronic or recalcitrant plantar fasciitis. PMID:26855444

Orthotics Compared to Conventional Therapy and Other Non-Surgical Treatments for Plantar Fasciitis.

PubMed

Lewis, Rebecca D; Wright, Paul; McCarthy, Laine H

2015-12-01

In adults with acute plantar fasciitis whose symptoms have not been relieved with the conventional regimen of NSAIDS, stretching and lifestyle modification, do the addition of orthotics (prefabricated or custom fitted) reduce pain and improve function compared with other non-surgical treatments (manipulative chiropractic, physical therapy and/or heel steroid injections)? Yes. Studies have shown that orthotics, both prefabricated and custom fitted, reduce pain and improve function in adults with acute plantar fasciitis with few risks or side effects. Used alone or in addition to conventional therapy (NSAIDs, stretching, lifestyle modification), orthotics are effective and well tolerated by patients for short-term pain relief and improved function. Prefabricated orthotics are less costly and provide similar relief to more expensive custom orthotics. Level of Evidence of the Answer: A Search Terms: Plantar fasciitis, heel pain, treatment, orthotics, Limits: Adult, human, English, Review, Randomized-Control Trials, Systematic Reviews, adults age 18 or more, publication dates 2004 to present. Date Search was Conducted: January 16, 2014; updated January 20, 2015 INCLUSION CRITERIA: Recent published systematic reviews, randomized controlled, meta-analyses; adults with confirmed acute or recent diagnosis of plantar fasciitis. Studies older than 10 years, children, adolescents less than 18 years of age, chronic or recalcitrant plantar fasciitis.

A review of interventions based on dietary diversification or modification strategies with the potential to enhance intakes of total and absorbable zinc.

PubMed

Gibson, Rosalind S; Anderson, Victoria P

2009-03-01

Dietary diversification or modification has the potential to prevent deficiencies of zinc and other coexisting limiting micronutrients simultaneously, without risk of antagonistic interactions. In this review, we have addressed the following. The first section focuses on strategies with the potential to enhance intake and/or bioavailability of zinc, and includes interventions (with and without nutrition education) based on agriculture, production or promotion of animal-source foods through animal husbandry or aquaculture, and commercial and household processing strategies to enhance zinc absorption. Outcome indicators include intakes of foods or nutrients (although rarely zinc) and, in some cases, zinc status, or zinc-related functional responses. The next two sections address whether dietary diversification or modification can achieve increases in absorbable zinc that are sufficient to enhance zinc status or zinc-related functional responses in breastfed infants and toddlers and in older children and women of reproductive age. Evidence for the impact of dietary diversification or modification on behavior change and on nutritional status in the short and long term, and the possible role of modifying factors (e.g., baseline nutritional status, socioeconomic status, infection, sex, age, and life-stage group) is the emphasis of the next section. The following section highlights the evidence for three potential adverse effects of dietary diversification or modification: aflatoxin contamination from germinated cereals, loss of water-soluble nutrients, and displacement of breastmilk. Finally, an example of a dietary diversification or modification program (Homestead Food Production) developed and implemented by Helen Keller International is given, together with the critical steps needed to scale up dietary diversification or modification for programs and future research needs.

Comparative Study of Surface Chemical Composition and Oxide Layer Modification upon Oxygen Plasma Cleaning and Piranha Etching on a Novel Low Elastic Modulus Ti25Nb21Hf Alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Paredes, Virginia; Salvagni, Emiliano; Rodríguez-Castellón, Enrique; Manero, José María

2017-08-01

Metals are widely employed for many biological artificial replacements, and it is known that the quality and the physical/chemical properties of the surface are crucial for the success of the implant. Therefore, control over surface implant materials and their elastic moduli may be crucial to avoid undesired effects. In this study, surface modification upon cleaning and activation of a low elastic modulus Ti alloy (Ti25Hf21Nb) was investigated. Two different methods, oxygen plasma (OP) cleaning and piranha (PI) solution, were studied and compared. Both surface treatments were effective for organic contaminant removal and to increase the Ti-oxide layer thickness rather than other metal-oxides present at the surface, which is beneficial for biocompatibility of the material. Furthermore, both techniques drastically increased hydrophilicity and introduced oxidation and hydroxylation (OH)-functional groups at the surface that may be beneficial for further chemical modifications. However, these treatments did not alter the surface roughness and bulk material properties. The surfaces were fully characterized in terms of surface roughness, wettability, oxide layer composition, and hydroxyl surface density through analytical techniques (interferometry, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), contact angle, and zinc complexation). These findings provide essential information when planning surface modifications for cleanliness, oxide layer thickness, and surface hydroxyl density, as control over these factors is essential for many applications, especially in biomaterials.

The bone diagnostic instrument III: Testing mouse femora

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Randall, Connor; Mathews, Phillip; Yurtsev, Eugene; Sahar, Nadder; Kohn, David; Hansma, Paul

2009-06-01

Here we describe modifications that allow the bone diagnostic instrument (BDI) [P. Hansma et al., Rev. Sci. Instrum. 79, 064303 (2008); Rev. Sci. Instrum. 77, 075105 (2006)], developed to test human bone, to test the femora of mice. These modifications include reducing the effective weight of the instrument on the bone, designing and fabricating new probe assemblies to minimize damage to the small bone, developing new testing protocols that involve smaller testing forces, and fabricating a jig for securing the smaller bones for testing. With these modifications, the BDI was used to test the hypothesis that short-term running has greater benefit on the mechanical properties of the femur for young growing mice compared to older, skeletally mature mice. We measured elastic modulus, hardness, and indentation distance increase (IDI), which had previously been shown to be the best discriminators in model systems known to exhibit differences in mechanical properties at the whole bone level. In the young exercised murine femora, the IDI was significantly lower than in young control femora. Since IDI has a relation to postyield properties, these results suggest that exercise during bone development increases post yield mechanical competence. We were also able to measure effects of aging on bone properties with the BDI. There was a significant increase in the IDI, and a significant decrease in the elastic modulus and hardness between the young and old groups. Thus, with the modifications described here, the BDI can take measurements on mouse bones and obtain statistically significant results.

Synthesis and evaluation of functional alginate hydrogels based on click chemistry for drug delivery applications.

PubMed

García-Astrain, Clara; Avérous, Luc

2018-06-15

Environment-sensitive alginate-based hydrogels for drug delivery applications are receiving increasing attention. However, most work in this field involves traditional cross-linking strategies which led to hydrogels with poor long-term stability. Herein, a series of chemically cross-linked alginate hydrogels was synthesized via click chemistry using Diels-Alder reaction by reacting furan-modified alginate and bifunctional cross-linkers. Alginate was successfully functionalized with furfurylamine. Then, 3D architectures were synthesized with water-soluble bismaleimides. Different substitution degrees were achieved in order to study the effect of alginate modification and the cross-linking extent over the behaviour of the hydrogels. The ensuing hydrogels were analysed in terms of microstructure, swelling, structure modification and rheological behaviour. The materials response to external stimuli such as pH was also investigated, revealing a pulsatile behaviour in a large pH range (1-13) and a clear pH-dependent swelling. Finally, vanillin release studies were conducted to demonstrate the potential of these biobased materials for drug delivery applications. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Formulation of an explicit-multiple-time-step time integration method for use in a global primitive equation grid model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chao, W. C.

1982-01-01

With appropriate modifications, a recently proposed explicit-multiple-time-step scheme (EMTSS) is incorporated into the UCLA model. In this scheme, the linearized terms in the governing equations that generate the gravity waves are split into different vertical modes. Each mode is integrated with an optimal time step, and at periodic intervals these modes are recombined. The other terms are integrated with a time step dictated by the CFL condition for low-frequency waves. This large time step requires a special modification of the advective terms in the polar region to maintain stability. Test runs for 72 h show that EMTSS is a stable, efficient and accurate scheme.

Epigenetic Effects of Cannabis Exposure

PubMed Central

Szutorisz, Henrietta; Hurd, Yasmin L.

2015-01-01

The past decade has witnessed a number of societal and political changes that have raised critical questions about the long-term impact of marijuana (Cannabis sativa) that are especially important given the prevalence of its abuse and that potential long-term effects still largely lack scientific data. Disturbances of the epigenome have generally been hypothesized as the molecular machinery underlying the persistent, often tissue-specific transcriptional and behavioral effects of cannabinoids that have been observed within one’s lifetime and even into the subsequent generation. Here, we provide an overview of the current published scientific literature that examined epigenetic effects of cannabinoids. Though mechanistic insights about the epigenome remain sparse, accumulating data in humans and animal models have begun to reveal aberrant epigenetic modifications in brain and the periphery linked to cannabis exposure. Expansion of such knowledge and causal molecular relationships could help provide novel targets for future therapeutic interventions. PMID:26546076

Compressibility Corrections to Closure Approximations for Turbulent Flow Simulations

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

Cloutman, L D

2003-02-01

We summarize some modifications to the usual closure approximations for statistical models of turbulence that are necessary for use with compressible fluids at all Mach numbers. We concentrate here on the gradient-flu approximation for the turbulent heat flux, on the buoyancy production of turbulence kinetic energy, and on a modification of the Smagorinsky model to include buoyancy. In all cases, there are pressure gradient terms that do not appear in the incompressible models and are usually omitted in compressible-flow models. Omission of these terms allows unphysical rates of entropy change.

Whereas Short-Term Facilitation Is Presynaptic, Intermediate-Term Facilitation Involves Both Presynaptic and Postsynaptic Protein Kinases and Protein Synthesis

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jin, Iksung; Kandel, Eric R.; Hawkins, Robert D.

2011-01-01

Whereas short-term plasticity involves covalent modifications that are generally restricted to either presynaptic or postsynaptic structures, long-term plasticity involves the growth of new synapses, which by its nature involves both pre- and postsynaptic alterations. In addition, an intermediate-term stage of plasticity has been identified that…

Short term effects of energy restriction and dietary fat sub-type on weight loss and disease risk factors.

PubMed

Tapsell, L; Batterham, M; Huang, X F; Tan, S-Y; Teuss, G; Charlton, K; Oshea, J; Warensjö, E

2010-06-01

Decreasing energy intake relative to energy expenditure is the indisputable tenet of weight loss. In addition to caloric restriction modification of the type of dietary fat may provide further benefits. The aim of the present study was to examine the effect of energy restriction alone and with dietary fat modification on weight loss and adiposity, as well as on risk factors for obesity related disease. One-hundred and fifty overweight men and women were randomized into a 3month controlled trial with four low fat (30% energy) dietary arms: (1) isocaloric (LF); (2) isocaloric with 10% polyunsaturated fatty acids (LF-PUFA); (3) low calorie (LF-LC) (-2MJ); (4) low calorie with 10% PUFA (LF-PUFA-LC). Primary outcomes were changes in body weight and body fat and secondary outcomes were changes in fasting levels of leptin, insulin, glucose, lipids and erythrocyte fatty acids. Changes in dietary intake were assessed using 3day food records. One-hundred and twenty-two participants entered the study and 95 completed the study. All groups lost weight and body fat (P<0.0001 time effect for both), but the LC groups lost more weight (P=0.026 for diet effect). All groups reduced total cholesterol levels (P<0.0001 time effect and P=0.017 intervention effect), but the LC and PUFA groups were better at reducing triacylglycerol levels (P=0.056 diet effect). HDL increased with LF-LC and LF-PUFA but not with LF-PUFA-LC (0.042 diet effect). The LF and LF-LC groups reported greater dietary fat reductions than the two PUFA groups (P=0.043). Energy restriction has the most potent effect on weight loss and lipids, but fat modification is also beneficial when energy restriction is more modest.

Online attentional bias modification training targeting anxiety and depression in unselected adolescents: Short- and long-term effects of a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

de Voogd, E L; Wiers, R W; Prins, P J M; de Jong, P J; Boendermaker, W J; Zwitser, R J; Salemink, E

2016-12-01

Based on information processing models of anxiety and depression, we investigated the efficacy of multiple sessions of online attentional bias modification training to reduce attentional bias and symptoms of anxiety and depression, and to increase emotional resilience in youth. Unselected adolescents (N = 340, age: 11-18 years) were randomly allocated to eight sessions of a dot-probe, or a visual search-based attentional training, or one of two corresponding placebo control conditions. Cognitive and emotional measures were assessed pre- and post-training; emotional outcome measures also at three, six and twelve months follow-up. Only visual search training enhanced attention for positive information, and this effect was stronger for participants who completed more training sessions. Symptoms of anxiety and depression reduced, whereas emotional resilience improved. However, these effects were not especially pronounced in the active conditions. Thus, this large-scale randomized controlled study provided no support for the efficacy of the current online attentional bias modification training as a preventive intervention to reduce symptoms of anxiety or depression or to increase emotional resilience in unselected adolescents. However, the absence of biased attention related to symptomatology at baseline, and the large drop-out rates at follow-up preclude strong conclusions. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Tests and comparisons of gravity models.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Marsh, J. G.; Douglas, B. C.

1971-01-01

Optical observations of the GEOS satellites were used to obtain orbital solutions with different sets of geopotential coefficients. The solutions were compared before and after modification to high order terms (necessary because of resonance) and were then analyzed by comparing subsequent observations with predicted trajectories. The most important source of error in orbit determination and prediction for the GEOS satellites is the effect of resonance found in most published sets of geopotential coefficients. Modifications to the sets yield greatly improved orbits in most cases. The results of these comparisons suggest that with the best optical tracking systems and gravity models, satellite position error due to gravity model uncertainty can reach 50-100 m during a heavily observed 5-6 day orbital arc. If resonant coefficients are estimated, the uncertainty is reduced considerably.

Long-term effects of an educational intervention on self-medication and appropriate drug use in single-sex secondary public schools, Quito, Ecuador.

PubMed

Maldonado, Juan-Carlos; Meléndez, Sergio D; Figueras, Albert

2007-01-01

*Self-medication is extensively practised in both developed and less-developed countries, sometimes inappropriately. *Educational intervention in secondary schools has been proven to be useful. *Most educational interventions in adolescent populations have focused on the reduction of addictive substance abuse. *Educational intervention can improve knowledge about self-medication and reduce misconceptions about diarrhoea, common cold and vitamins in an adolescent population. *A specific lecture followed by small working-group seminars produces better results than a general lecture alone in terms of 'knowledge' and 'attitude'. *The positive effects of the intervention are detectable even 1 year later. Yearly reinforcing interventions while in secondary school would allow long-lasting effects. Improving knowledge about rational drug use at an early age may be a good way to increase the population's awareness of health, medicines and self-medication. We set out to evaluate the short- and long-term effects of an educational intervention to promote rational drug use and self-medication in secondary school students. A non-randomized, controlled clinical trial. The participants were 367 female students (10-13 years old) from two secondary public schools of the metropolitan district of Quito (Ecuador). The educational campaign had two components [a specific lecture (intervention and control schools) and subsequent small working group seminars (intervention school)] providing short and clear messages of five topics related to rational drug use. The main outcome measures were an increase in 'knowledge' short term (1 month) and long term (up to 1 year) after intervention and the relative risk (RR) reduction in misconceptions or wrong ideas about medicine use. The intervention group showed a significant increase in knowledge both short and long term and in comparison with the control group, mainly regarding oral rehydration salts preparation (+59.4%; P < 0.001), lack of multivitamin energizer action (+57.4%; P < 0.001), healthy growth effects (+53.3%; P < 0.001) and the perception that medicines' promotional activities do not teach how to take care of health (+54.0%; P < 0.001). A RR reduction in misconceptions about drugs was found short term and long term. The intervention group was less predisposed to consume antidiarrhoeals [RR = 0.75, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.62, 0.92], cough suppressants (0.44, 95% CI 0.35, 0.55) and other medicines for the common cold (0.56, 95% CI 0.45, 0.70). Misconceptions concerning the benefits of multivitamin preparations were reduced in 73%; additionally, the intervention group showed a decrease in their consumption (43.9% basal; 25.3% short term and 25.6% long term; P < 0.001). It is possible to achieve a favourable modification of attitudes to appropriate use of medicines in a teenage population and this modification lasts at least 1 year. Continuous reinforcing interventions would allow better and long-lasting effects and could help to fill the gap in health education of the general population.

Extreme ambient temperatures and cardiorespiratory emergency room visits: assessing risk by comorbid health conditions in a time series study

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Extreme ambient temperatures are an increasing public health concern. The aim of this study was to assess if persons with comorbid health conditions were at increased risk of adverse cardiorespiratory morbidity during temperature extremes. Methods A time series study design was applied to 292,666 and 562,738 emergency room (ER) visits for cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, respectively, that occurred in Toronto area hospitals between April 1st 2002 and March 31st 2010. Subgroups of persons with comorbid health conditions were identified. Relative risks (RRs) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using a Poisson regression model with distributed lag non-linear model, and were adjusted for the confounding influence of seasonality, relative humidity, day-of-the-week, outdoor air pollutants and daily influenza ER visits. Effect modification by comorbid health conditions was tested using the relative effect modification (REM) index. Results Stronger associations of cardiovascular disease ER visits were observed for persons with diabetes compared to persons without diabetes (REM = 1.12; 95% CI: 1.01 – 1.27) with exposure to the cumulative short term effect of extreme hot temperatures (i.e. 99th percentile of temperature distribution vs. 75th percentile). Effect modification was also found for comorbid respiratory disease (REM = 1.17; 95% CI: 1.02 – 1.44) and cancer (REM = 1.20; 95% CI: 1.02 – 1.49) on respiratory disease ER visits during short term hot temperature episodes. The effect of extreme cold temperatures (i.e. 1st percentile of temperature distribution vs. 25th percentile) on cardiovascular disease ER visits were stronger for individuals with comorbid cardiac diseases (REM = 1.47; 95% CI: 1.06 – 2.23) and kidney diseases (REM = 2.43; 95% CI: 1.59 – 8.83) compared to those without these conditions when cumulated over a two-week period. Conclusions The identification of those most susceptible to temperature extremes is important for public health officials to implement adaptation measures to manage the impact of extreme temperatures on population health. PMID:24484632

Boundary-layer effects on cold fronts at a coastline

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Garratt, J. R.

1986-07-01

The present note discusses one physical mechanism which may contribute to cold air channelling, manifest as a frontal bulge on a surface-analysis chart, in the coastal region of Victoria in southeast Australia. This involves the modification of boundary-layer air in both offshore (prefrontal) and onshore (postfrontal) flow, and the effect on cross-frontal thermal contrast. The problem is discussed in terms of a north-south-oriented cold front behaving as an atmospheric gravity current, propagating along an east-west-oriented coastline, in the presence of a prefrontal offshore stream.

Post-Training Intrahippocampal Inhibition of Class I Histone Deacetylases Enhances Long-Term Object-Location Memory

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hawk, Joshua D.; Florian, Cedrick; Abel, Ted

2011-01-01

Long-term memory formation involves covalent modification of the histone proteins that package DNA. Reducing histone acetylation by mutating histone acetyltransferases impairs long-term memory, and enhancing histone acetylation by inhibiting histone deacetylases (HDACs) improves long-term memory. Previous studies using HDAC inhibitors to enhance…

Surface modifications on InAs decrease indium and arsenic leaching under physiological conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jewett, Scott A.; Yoder, Jeffrey A.; Ivanisevic, Albena

2012-11-01

Devices containing III-V semiconductors such as InAs are increasingly being used in the electronic industry for a variety of optoelectronic applications. Furthermore, the attractive chemical, material, electronic properties make such materials appealing for use in devices designed for biological applications, such as biosensors. However, in biological applications the leaching of toxic materials from these devices could cause harm to cells or tissue. Additionally, after disposal, toxic inorganic materials can leach from devices and buildup in the environment, causing long-term ecological harm. Therefore, the toxicity of these materials along with their stability in physiological conditions are important factors to consider. Surface modifications are one common method of stabilizing semiconductor materials in order to chemically and electronically passivate them. Such surface modifications could also prevent the leaching of toxic materials by preventing the regrowth of the unstable surface oxide layer and by creating an effective barrier between the semiconductor surface and the surrounding environment. In this study, various surface modifications on InAs are developed with the goal of decreasing the leaching of indium and arsenic. The leaching of indium and arsenic from modified substrates was assessed in physiological conditions using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Substrates modified with 11-mercapto-1-undecanol (MU) and graft polymerized with poly(ethylene) glycol (PEG) were most effective at preventing indium and arsenic leaching. These surfaces were characterized using contact angle analysis, ellipsometry, atomic force microscopy (AFM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Substrates modified with collagen and synthetic polyelectrolytes were least effective, due to the destructive nature of acidic environments on InAs. The toxicity of modified and unmodified InAs, along with raw indium, arsenic, and PEG components was assessed using zebrafish embryos.

Three-parameter AVO crossplotting in anisotropic media

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hao, Chen; Castagna, J.P.; Brown, R.L.; Ramos, A.C.B.

2001-01-01

Amplitude versus offset (AVO) interpretation can be facilitated by crossplotting AVO intercept (A), gradient (B), and curvature (C) terms. However, anisotropy, which exists in the real world, usually complicates AVO analysis. Recognizing anisotropic behavior on AVO crossplots can help avoid AVO interpretation errors. Using a modification to a three-term (A, B, and C) approximation to the exact anisotropic reflection coefficients for transversely isotropic media, we find that anisotropy has a nonlinear effect on an A versus C crossplot yet causes slope changes and differing intercepts on A versus B or C crossplots. Empirical corrections that result in more accurate crossplot interpretation are introduced for specific circumstances.

Air transportation energy efficiency - Alternatives and implications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Williams, L. J.

1976-01-01

Results from recent studies of air transportation energy efficiency alternatives are discussed, along with some of the implications of these alternatives. The fuel-saving alternatives considered include aircraft operation, aircraft modification, derivative aircraft, and new aircraft. In the near-term, energy efficiency improvements should be possible through small improvements in fuel-saving flight procedures, higher density seating, and higher load factors. Additional small near-term improvements could be obtained through aircraft modifications, such as the relatively inexpensive drag reduction modifications. Derivatives of existing aircraft could meet the requirements for new aircraft and provide energy improvements until advanced technology is available to justify the cost of a completely new design. In order to obtain significant improvements in energy efficiency, new aircraft must truly exploit advanced technology in such areas as aerodynamics, composite structures, active controls, and advanced propulsion.

[Changes of the neuronal membrane excitability as cellular mechanisms of learning and memory].

PubMed

Gaĭnutdinov, Kh L; Andrianov, V V; Gaĭnutdinova, T Kh

2011-01-01

In the presented review given literature and results of own studies of dynamics of electrical characteristics of neurons, which change are included in processes both an elaboration of learning, and retention of the long-term memory. Literary datas and our results allow to conclusion, that long-term retention of behavioural reactions during learning is accompanied not only by changing efficiency of synaptic transmission, as well as increasing of excitability of command neurons of the defensive reflex. This means, that in the process of learning are involved long-term changes of the characteristics a membrane of certain elements of neuronal network, dependent from the metabolism of the cells. see text). Thou phenomena possible mark as cellular (electrophysiological) correlates of long-term plastic modifications of the behaviour. The analyses of having results demonstrates an important role of membrane characteristics of neurons (their excitability) and parameters an synaptic transmission not only in initial stage of learning, as well as in long-term modifications of the behaviour (long-term memory).

Epigenetic Regulation of Immunological Alterations Following Prenatal Exposure to Marijuana Cannabinoids and its Long Term Consequences in Offspring

PubMed Central

Zumbrun, Elizabeth E.; Sido, Jessica M.; Nagarkatti, Prakash S.

2015-01-01

Use of marijuana during pregnancy is fairly commonplace and can be expected increase in frequency as more states legalize its recreational use. The cannabinoids present in marijuana have been shown to be immunosuppressive, yet the effect of prenatal exposure to cannabinoids on the immune system of the developing fetus, its long term consequences during adult stage of life, and transgenerational effects have not been well characterized. Confounding factors such as coexisting drug use make the impact of cannabis use on progeny inherently difficult to study in a human population. Data from various animal models suggests that in utero exposure to cannabinoids results in profound T cell dysfunction and a greatly reduced immune response to viral antigens. Furthermore, evidence from animal studies indicates that the immunosuppressive effects of cannabinoids can be mediated through epigenetic mechanisms such as altered microRNA, DNA methylation and histone modification profiles. Such studies support the hypothesis that that parental or prenatal exposure to cannabis can trigger epigenetic changes that could have significant immunological consequences for offspring as well as long term transgenerational effects. PMID:25618446

The effects of information framing on the practices of physicians.

PubMed

McGettigan, P; Sly, K; O'Connell, D; Hill, S; Henry, D

1999-10-01

The presentation format of clinical trial results, or the "frame," may influence perceptions about the worth of a treatment. The extent and consistency of that influence are unclear. We undertook a systematic review of the published literature on the effects of information framing on the practices of physicians. Relevant articles were retrieved using bibliographic and electronic searches. Information was extracted from each in relation to study design, frame type, parameter assessed, assessment scale, clinical setting, intervention, results, and factors modifying the frame effect. Twelve articles reported randomized trials investigating the effect of framing on doctors' opinions or intended practices. Methodological shortcomings were numerous. Seven papers investigated the effect of presenting clinical trial results in terms of relative risk reduction, or absolute risk reductions or the number needing to be treated; gain/loss (positive/negative) terms were used in four papers; verbal/numeric terms in one. In simple clinical scenarios, results expressed in relative risk reduction or gain terms were viewed most positively by doctors. Factors that reduced the impact of framing included the risk of causing harm, preexisting prejudices about treatments, the type of decision, the therapeutic yield, clinical experience, and costs. No study investigated the effect of framing on actual clinical practice. While a framing effect may exist, particularly when results are presented in terms of proportional or absolute measures of gain or loss, it appears highly susceptible to modification, and even neutralization, by other factors that influence doctors' decision making. Its effects on actual clinical practice are unknown.

47 CFR 80.25 - License term.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... maritime services will normally be issued for a term of ten years from the date of original issuance, or... of ten years from the date of original issuance, major modification, or renewal. (c) Licenses for...

Effects of mesocaval shunt on the pharmacokinetics of metronidazole in young rats.

PubMed

Guillé, Beatriz E Perez; Alvarez, Fernando Villegas; Toledo López, Alejandra R; Bravo-Luna, Miguel A Jiménez; Soriano-Rosales, Rosa E; Lares-Asseff, Ismael; Arrellin, Gerardo; Guillé, Maria G Pérez

2005-01-01

Prophylactic and therapeutic management of portosystemic encephalopathies is based on protein restriction in the diet, and the use of lactulose and antibiotics such as metronidazole. These actions intend to reduce the main source of intestinal ammonia production and release into the systemic circulation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the medium-term effects of mesocaval shunt on the pharmacokinetics of metronidazole in rats with healthy livers. Male Lewis rats were divided into two groups. The first group was subjected to mesocaval shunt (MCS) and the other employed as a control. The following tests were carried out in both groups: metronidazole pharmacokinetics, determination of ALT, AST, albumin, urea and ammonium, liver weight and histomorphology. A loss in body and liver weight was registered in rats subjected to MCS. AST levels also increased compared to controls. Significant differences in almost all pharmacokinetic parameters were detected between MCS and control rats, especially in Kel, AUC and Cmax. Modifications in metronidazole pharmacokinetics and liver weight changes without microstructural modification secondary to MCS were found. We suggest that individual drug-monitoring and pharmacokinetic analysis must be carried out in metronidazole medicated patients with modifications in portal circulation with or with out macro or micro liver structural alterations.

Visuo-Vestibular Interactions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1997-01-01

Session TA3 includes short reports covering: (1) Vestibulo-Oculomotor Interaction in Long-Term Microgravity; (2) Effects of Weightlessness on the Spatial Orientation of Visually Induced Eye Movements; (3) Adaptive Modification of the Three-Dimensional Vestibulo-Ocular Reflex during Prolonged Microgravity; (4) The Dynamic Change of Brain Potential Related to Selective Attention to Visual Signals from Left and Right Visual Fields; (5) Locomotor Errors Caused by Vestibular Suppression; and (6) A Novel, Image-Based Technique for Three-Dimensional Eye Measurement.

Protein Modification: A Proposed Mechanism for the Long-Term Pathogenesis of Traumatic Brain Injury

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-06-04

two distinct phases: a first stage of “primary injury,” and subsequent “secondary injury.” Primary injury refers to the direct, physical disruption of...acid, is due to a number of post- injury effects, including the physical disruption of cell membranes and the impairment of energy-dependent...TBI. The pathophysiology of TBI is both complex and dynamic, involving physical injury, ischemia/reperfusion, hypoxia, glutamate excitotoxicity

Nitric oxide deficiency determines global chromatin changes in Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

PubMed

Colussi, Claudia; Gurtner, Aymone; Rosati, Jessica; Illi, Barbara; Ragone, Gianluca; Piaggio, Giulia; Moggio, Maurizio; Lamperti, Costanza; D'Angelo, Grazia; Clementi, Emilio; Minetti, Giulia; Mozzetta, Chiara; Antonini, Annalisa; Capogrossi, Maurizio C; Puri, Pier Lorenzo; Gaetano, Carlo

2009-07-01

The present study provides evidence that abnormal patterns of global histone modification are present in the skeletal muscle nuclei of mdx mice and Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) patients. A combination of specific histone H3 modifications, including Ser-10 phosphorylation, acetylation of Lys 9 and 14, and Lys 79 methylation, were found enriched in muscle biopsies from human patients affected by DMD and in late-term fetuses, early postnatal pups, or adult mdx mice. In this context, chromatin immunoprecipitation experiments showed an enrichment of these modifications at the loci of genes involved in proliferation or inflammation, suggesting a regulatory effect on gene expression. Remarkably, the reexpression of dystrophin induced by gentamicin treatment or the administration of nitric oxide (NO) donors reversed the abnormal pattern of H3 histone modifications. These findings suggest an unanticipated link between the dystrophin-activated NO signaling and the remodeling of chromatin. In this context, the regulation of class IIa histone deacetylases (HDACs) 4 and 5 was found altered as a consequence of the reduced NO-dependent protein phosphatase 2A activity, indicating that both NO and class IIa HDACs are important for satellite cell differentiation and gene expression in mdx mice. In conclusion, this work provides the first evidence of a role for NO as an epigenetic regulator in DMD.

Recent Achievements in Characterizing the Histone Code and Approaches to Integrating Epigenomics and Systems Biology.

PubMed

Janssen, K A; Sidoli, S; Garcia, B A

2017-01-01

Functional epigenetic regulation occurs by dynamic modification of chromatin, including genetic material (i.e., DNA methylation), histone proteins, and other nuclear proteins. Due to the highly complex nature of the histone code, mass spectrometry (MS) has become the leading technique in identification of single and combinatorial histone modifications. MS has now overcome antibody-based strategies due to its automation, high resolution, and accurate quantitation. Moreover, multiple approaches to analysis have been developed for global quantitation of posttranslational modifications (PTMs), including large-scale characterization of modification coexistence (middle-down and top-down proteomics), which is not currently possible with any other biochemical strategy. Recently, our group and others have simplified and increased the effectiveness of analyzing histone PTMs by improving multiple MS methods and data analysis tools. This review provides an overview of the major achievements in the analysis of histone PTMs using MS with a focus on the most recent improvements. We speculate that the workflow for histone analysis at its state of the art is highly reliable in terms of identification and quantitation accuracy, and it has the potential to become a routine method for systems biology thanks to the possibility of integrating histone MS results with genomics and proteomics datasets. © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Activated carbon with excellent chromium(VI) adsorption performance prepared by acid-base surface modification.

PubMed

Liu, S X; Chen, X; Chen, X Y; Liu, Z F; Wang, H L

2007-03-06

In the present work, activated carbon (AC) with excellent Cr(VI) adsorption performance especially at low concentrations was prepared by an acid-base surface modification method. Raw activated carbon (AC(0)) was first oxidized in boiling HNO(3) (AC(1)), then treated with a mixture of NaOH and NaCl (AC(2)). Batch equilibrium and continuous column adsorption were conducted to evaluate the adsorption performance. Boehm titration, elemental analysis, and N(2)/77K adsorption isotherm methods were used to characterize the surface properties and pore structure of modified ACs. The results revealed that the modified AC exhibited excellent Cr(VI) adsorption performance in terms of adsorption capacity and adsorption rate: AC(2)>AC(1)>AC(0). Modification caused S(BET) to decrease and the total number of surface oxygen acidic groups to increase. HNO(3) oxidization produced positive acid groups, and subsequently NaOH treatment replaced H(+) of surface acid groups by Na(+), and the acidity of AC decreased. The main cause of higher Cr(VI) adsorption capacity and rate for AC(2) was the presence of more oxygen surface acidic groups and suitable surface acidity. HNO(3)-NaOH modification shows potential for the preparation of high quality AC for the effective removal of low concentrations of Cr(VI).

Doxorubicin plus tumor necrosis factor alpha combination treatments in EL4-lymphoma-bearing C57BL/6 mice.

PubMed

Ehrke, M J; Verstovsek, S; Ujházy, P; Meer, J M; Eppolito, C; Maccubbin, D L; Mihich, E

1998-02-01

The therapeutic efficacy of a total of 42 single-agent or combination protocols involving doxorubicin (Adriamycin, ADM) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFalpha) were evaluated in the syngeneic murine lymphoma model, C57BL/6-EL4. Combination treatments were the most effective and the therapeutic effects were schedule-dependent; e.g. it was generally advantageous for ADM to precede TNFalpha administration. Two protocols selected for further study were 4 mg/kg ADM i.v. on days 1 and 8 plus TNFalpha, i.v., at either 16000 U (7 microg)/injection, on days 1 and 8 or 4000 U (1.7 microg)/injection, on days 11-15. Survival of mice bearing one of four EL4 sublines having different in vitro drug sensitivities was assessed. These sublines were E10 (ADM-sensitive/TNFalpha-resistant), E16 (sensitive/sensitive), ER2 (ADM-resistant/TNFalpha-sensitive) and ER13 (resistant/resistant). Between 80% and 100% long-term survivors (i.e. tumor free on day 60) were obtained with the two treatments in mice bearing ADM-sensitive sublines, even though one of these sublines, E10, was resistant to TNFalpha in vitro. Induction of long-term survival appeared, therefore, to correlate with in vitro defined sensitivity/resistance to ADM, but not to TNFalpha Treatment-induced modulations of tumoricidal immune effector functions were also examined. Taken together, the results indicated that induction of long-term survival involved complex interactions of: (1) ADM-induced tumor modifications, including, but not limited to, tumor debulking, (2) combination-treatment-induced modifications of splenic cytolytic T cell and macrophage activities, and (3) the restoration of thymus cellularity. Finally, when long-term survivors resulting from treatment of E10- or E16-bearing mice were implanted with ER2 on day 120, the majority survived, indicating that long-term immune memory, capable of recognizing drug resistant variants, had been established.

Epigenetics and depression: return of the repressed.

PubMed

Dalton, Victoria S; Kolshus, Erik; McLoughlin, Declan M

2014-02-01

Epigenetics has recently emerged as a potential mechanism by which adverse environmental stimuli can result in persistent changes in gene expression. Epigenetic mechanisms function alongside the DNA sequence to modulate gene expression and ultimately influence protein production. The current review provides an introduction and overview of epigenetics with a particular focus on preclinical and clinical studies relevant to major depressive disorder (MDD). PubMed and Web of Science databases were interrogated from January 1995 up to December 2012 using combinations of search terms, including "epigenetic", "microRNA" and "DNA methylation" cross referenced with "depression", "early life stress" and "antidepressant". There is an association between adverse environmental stimuli, such as early life stress, and epigenetic modification of gene expression. Epigenetic changes have been reported in humans with MDD and may serve as biomarkers to improve diagnosis. Antidepressant treatments appear to reverse or initiate compensatory epigenetic alterations that may be relevant to their mechanism of action. As a narrative review, the current report was interpretive and qualitative in nature. Epigenetic modification of gene expression provides a mechanism for understanding the link between long-term effects of adverse life events and the changes in gene expression that are associated with depression. Although still a developing field, in the future, epigenetic modifications of gene expression may provide novel biomarkers to predict future susceptibility and/or onset of MDD, improve diagnosis, and aid in the development of epigenetics-based therapies for depression. © 2013 Published by Elsevier B.V.

Coherent neutrinoproduction of photons and pions in a chiral effective field theory for nuclei

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Xilin; Serot, Brian D.

2012-09-01

Background: The neutrinoproduction of photons and pions from nucleons and nuclei is relevant to the background analysis in neutrino-oscillation experiments [for example, the MiniBooNE; MiniBooNE Collaboration, A. A. Aquilar-Arevalo , Phys. Rev. Lett.0031-900710.1103/PhysRevLett.100.032301 100, 032301 (2008)]. The production from nucleons and incoherent production with Eν⩽0.5GeV have been studied in B. D. Serot and X. Zhang, Phys. Rev. CPRVCAN0556-281310.1103/PhysRevC.86.015501 86, 015501 (2012); and X. Zhang and B. D. Serot, Phys. Rev. C1110-865710.1103/PhysRevC.86.035502 86, 035502 (2012).Purpose: Study coherent productions with Eν⩽0.5GeV. Also address the contributions of two contact terms in neutral current (NC) photon production that are partially related to the proposed anomalous ω(ρ), Z boson, and photon interactions.Methods: We work in the framework of a Lorentz-covariant effective field theory (EFT), which contains nucleons, pions, the Δ (1232) (Δs), isoscalar scalar (σ) and vector (ω) fields, and isovector vector (ρ) fields, and incorporates a nonlinear realization of (approximate) SU(2)L⊗SU(2)R chiral symmetry. A revised version of the so-called “optimal approximation” is applied, where one-nucleon interaction amplitude is factorized out and the medium-modifications and pion wave function distortion are included. The calculation is tested against the coherent pion photoproduction data.Results: The computation shows an agreement with the pion photoproduction data, although precisely determining the Δ modification is entangled with one mentioned contact term. The uncertainty in the Δ modification leads to uncertainties in both pion and photon neutrinoproductions. In addition, the contact term plays a significant role in NC photon production.Conclusions: First, the contact term increases NC photon production by ˜10% assuming a reasonable range of the contact coupling, which however seems not significant enough to explain the MiniBooNE excess. A high energy computation is needed to gain a firm conclusion and will be presented elsewhere. Second, the behavior of coherent neutrinoproductions computed here is significantly different from the expectation at high energy by ignoring the vector current contribution.

Robust aptamer-polydopamine-functionalized M-PLGA-TPGS nanoparticles for targeted delivery of docetaxel and enhanced cervical cancer therapy.

PubMed

Xu, Guojun; Yu, Xinghua; Zhang, Jinxie; Sheng, Yingchao; Liu, Gan; Tao, Wei; Mei, Lin

2016-01-01

One limitation of current biodegradable polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) is the contradiction between functional modification and maintaining formerly excellent bioproperties with simple procedures. Here, we reported a robust aptamer-polydopamine-functionalized mannitol-functionalized poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (M-PLGA)-D-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (TPGS) nanoformulation (Apt-pD-NPs) for the delivery of docetaxel (DTX) with enhanced cervical cancer therapy effects. The novel DTX-loaded Apt-pD-NPs possess satisfactory advantages: 1) increased drug loading content and encapsulation efficiency induced by star-shaped copolymer M-PLGA-TPGS; 2) significant active targeting effect caused by conjugated AS1411 aptamers; and 3) excellent long-term compatibility by incorporation of TPGS. Therefore, with simple preparation procedures and excellent bioproperties, the new functionalized Apt-pD-NPs could maximally increase the local effective drug concentration on tumor sites, achieving enhanced treatment effectiveness and minimizing side effects. In a word, the robust DTX-loaded Apt-pD-NPs could be used as potential nanotherapeutics for cervical cancer treatment, and the aptamer-polydopamine modification strategy could be a promising method for active targeting of cancer therapy with simple procedures.

14 CFR 431.73 - Continuing accuracy of license application; application for modification of license.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 4 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Continuing accuracy of license application; application for modification of license. 431.73 Section 431.73 Aeronautics and Space COMMERCIAL SPACE... REUSABLE LAUNCH VEHICLE (RLV) Post-Licensing Requirements-Reusable Launch Vehicle Mission License Terms and...

14 CFR 431.73 - Continuing accuracy of license application; application for modification of license.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 4 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Continuing accuracy of license application; application for modification of license. 431.73 Section 431.73 Aeronautics and Space COMMERCIAL SPACE... REUSABLE LAUNCH VEHICLE (RLV) Post-Licensing Requirements-Reusable Launch Vehicle Mission License Terms and...

14 CFR 431.73 - Continuing accuracy of license application; application for modification of license.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 4 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Continuing accuracy of license application; application for modification of license. 431.73 Section 431.73 Aeronautics and Space COMMERCIAL SPACE... REUSABLE LAUNCH VEHICLE (RLV) Post-Licensing Requirements-Reusable Launch Vehicle Mission License Terms and...

14 CFR 431.73 - Continuing accuracy of license application; application for modification of license.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 4 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Continuing accuracy of license application; application for modification of license. 431.73 Section 431.73 Aeronautics and Space COMMERCIAL SPACE... REUSABLE LAUNCH VEHICLE (RLV) Post-Licensing Requirements-Reusable Launch Vehicle Mission License Terms and...

14 CFR 431.73 - Continuing accuracy of license application; application for modification of license.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 4 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Continuing accuracy of license application; application for modification of license. 431.73 Section 431.73 Aeronautics and Space COMMERCIAL SPACE... REUSABLE LAUNCH VEHICLE (RLV) Post-Licensing Requirements-Reusable Launch Vehicle Mission License Terms and...

40 CFR 122.63 - Minor modifications of permits.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 21 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Minor modifications of permits. 122.63..., coverage, and liability between the current and new permittees has been submitted to the Director. (e)(1...) Incorporate changes to the terms of a CAFO's nutrient management plan that have been revised in accordance...

The Modification of Covert Behavior: A Survey of the Literature.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Johnson, R. Gilmore; Elson, Steven E.

This review of the research literature focuses on processes that Cautela (1972a) has called covert conditioning and Mahoney, Thoresen, and Danaher (1972) have called covert behavior modification. Both of these terms refer to processes for changing behavior through imaginal responses. Two general strategies have been employed. One has been to…

Beyond Transcription Factors: The Role of Chromatin Modifying Enzymes in Regulating Transcription Required for Memory

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Barrett, Ruth M.; Wood, Marcelo A.

2008-01-01

One of the alluring aspects of examining chromatin modifications in the role of modulating transcription required for long-term memory processes is that these modifications may provide transient and potentially stable epigenetic marks in the service of activating and/or maintaining transcriptional processes. These, in turn, may ultimately…

An optimal modification of a Kalman filter for time scales

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Greenhall, C. A.

2003-01-01

The Kalman filter in question, which was implemented in the time scale algorithm TA(NIST), produces time scales with poor short-term stability. A simple modification of the error covariance matrix allows the filter to produce time scales with good stability at all averaging times, as verified by simulations of clock ensembles.

Implementation agreement between the Washington State Department of Ecology and the Washington State Department of Transportation regarding the use of water quality modification general order

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1997-04-01

This implementation agreement was adopted by the Washington State Department of Ecology and the Washington State Department of Transportation. It requires that the agencies work together in dealing with short term modifications of water quality requi...

Enhancement of Oscillatory Flap Propulsors for Low Speed Flows in Water

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-07-13

in efficiency results from a reduction in the induced drag created by the lifting surface. Many of these modifications such as winglets , tip bulbs...one of the many terms that account for the total power loss. Thus, winglet -type tip modifications for the OFD are expected to lead to an

Effect of long term organic amendments and vegetation of vineyard soils on the microscale distribution and biogeochemistry of copper.

PubMed

Navel, Aline; Martins, Jean M F

2014-01-01

In this study we evaluated the effect of the long term organic management of a vineyard-soil on the biogeochemistry of copper at the micro-aggregate scale. The model vineyard-soil (Mâcon-France) experienced a long-term field-experiment that consisted in amendments and vegetations with various materials and plants. We studied specifically the effect of Straw (S) and Conifer Compost (CC) organic amendments and Clover (Cl) and Fescue (F) vegetation on the fate of copper (fungicide) in the surface layer of this loamy soil, through a comparison with the Non Amended soil (NA). After collection the five soils were immediately physically fractionated in order to obtain 5 granulometric size-fractions. All soils and size-fractions were quantitatively characterized in terms of granulometry, chemical content and copper distribution, speciation and bioavailability to bacteria and plants. The results showed strong increases of soil-constituents aggregation for all treatments (Cl>CC>S>F>NA), in relation with the increased cementation of soil-constituents by organic matter (OM). The distribution patterns of all major elements and organic carbon were found highly variable within the soil sub-fractions and also between the 5 treatments. Due to their specific inorganic and organic composition, soil sub-fractions can thus be considered as a specific microbial habitat. Added OM accumulated preferentially in the 20-2 μm and in the >250 μm of the 5 soils. The distribution patterns of copper as well as its speciation and bioavailability to bacteria in the soil sub-fractions were shown to be strongly different among the five soils, in relation with OM distribution. Our results also suggest that Cu-bioavailability to plants is controlled by soil-rhizosphere structure. Altogether our results permitted to show that long-term organic management of a vineyard soil induced stable modifications of soil physical and chemical properties at both macro and micro-scales. These modifications affected in turn the micro-scale biogeochemistry of copper, and especially its bioavailability to bacteria and plants. © 2013.

The Downstart Program: a hospital-based pediatric healthy lifestyle program for obese and morbidly obese minority youth.

PubMed

Sternberg, Alex; Muzumdar, Hiren; Dinkevich, Eugene; Quintos, Jose Bernardo; Austin-Leon, Galia; Owens, Terrel; Murphy, Cheryl; Dapul, Geraldine; Rao, Madu

2006-12-01

Although obesity affects all cultures, ethnic groups and social strata, this disorder affects African Americans, Hispanics and the poor at a disproportionate rate. The Downstart Pediatric Healthy Lifestyle Program was developed to provide a multi-disciplinary behavioral modification program for inner city families in Brooklyn, New York interested in leading a healthier, more active lifestyle. The Downstart Program uses a four-pronged approach of medical evaluation, exercise, nutritional education and lifestyle modification. A psychological evaluation is performed to determine the individual's ability and readiness to participate in group activities. Baseline physical fitness, flexibility and muscle strength are measured, followed by a twice-weekly karate/martial arts/dance program, incorporating principles established by the President's Council on Exercise. Nutritional and behavioral modification aspects of the program consist of weekly education about food groups, portion control, goal setting and appropriate rewards for attaining goals. Our preliminary results indicate that the Downstart Program may be a viable intervention for weight loss. Further study is needed to improve strategies for motivating patients and means and criteria for assessing long-term effects on health and lifestyle.

Modulating peroxisome proliferator–activated receptors for therapeutic benefit? Biology, clinical experience, and future prospects

PubMed Central

Rosenson, Robert S.; Wright, R. Scott; Farkouh, Michael; Plutzky, Jorge

2014-01-01

Clinical trials of cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus primarily have been directed at the modification of a single major risk factor; however, in trials that enroll patients with and without diabetes, the absolute risk in CVD events remains higher in patients with diabetes. Efforts to reduce the macrovascular and microvascular residual risk have been directed toward a multifactorial CVD risk-factor modification; nonetheless, long-term complications remain high. Dual-peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor (PPAR) α/γ agonists may offer opportunities to lower macrovascular and microvascular complications of type 2 diabetes mellitus beyond the reductions achieved with conventional risk-factor modification. The information presented elucidates the differentiation of compound-specific vs class-effect properties of PPARs as the basis for future development of a new candidate molecule. Prior experience with thiazolidinediones, an approved class of PPARγ agonists, and glitazars, investigational class of dual-PPARα/γ agonists, also provides important lessons about the risks and benefits of targeting a nuclear receptor while revealing some of the future challenges for regulatory approval. PMID:23137497

Oxidative Stress, Aging and CNS disease in the Canine Model of Human Brain Aging

PubMed Central

Head, Elizabeth; Rofina, Jaime; Zicker, Steven

2008-01-01

SYNOPSIS Decline in cognitive functions that accompany aging in dogs may have a biological basis, and many of the disorders associated with aging in canines may be mitigated through dietary modifications that incorporate specific nutraceuticals. Based on previous research and the results of both laboratory and clinical studies – antioxidants may be one class of nutraceutical that provides benefits to aged dogs. Brains of aged dogs accumulate oxidative damage to proteins and lipids, which may lead to dysfunction of neuronal cells. The production of free radicals and lack of increase in compensatory antioxidant enzymes may lead to detrimental modifications to important macromolecules within neurons. Reducing oxidative damage through food ingredients rich in a broad spectrum of antioxidants significantly improves, or slows the decline of, learning and memory in aged dogs. However, determining all effective compounds and combinations, dosage ranges, as well as when to initiate intervention and long term effects constitute gaps in our current knowledge. PMID:18249248

The evaluation of the micro-tracks and micro-dimples on the tribological characteristics of thrust ball bearings.

PubMed

Amanov, Auezhan; Pyoun, Young-Shik; Cho, In-Shik; Lee, Chang-Soon; Park, In-Gyu

2011-01-01

One of the primary remedies for tribological problems is surface modification. The reduction of the friction between the ball and the raceway of bearings is a very important goal of the development of bearing technology. A low friction has a positive effect in terms of the extension of the fatigue life, avoidance of a temperature rise, and prevention of premature failure of bearings. Therefore, this research sought to investigate the effects of micro-tracks and micro-dimples on the tribological characteristics at the contact point between the ball and the raceway of thrust ball bearings (TBBs). The ultrasonic nanocrystal surface modification (UNSM) technology was applied using different intervals (feed rates) to the TBB raceway surface to create micro-tracks and micro-dimples. The friction coefficient after UNSM at 50 microm intervals showed marked sensitivity and a significant reduction of 30%. In this study, the results showed that more micro-dimples yield a lower friction coefficient.

Computation of turbulent reacting flow in a solid-propellant ducted rocket

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chao, Yei-Chin; Chou, Wen-Fuh; Liu, Sheng-Shyang

1995-05-01

A mathematical model for computation of turbulent reacting flows is developed under general curvilinear coordinate systems. An adaptive, streamline grid system is generated to deal with the complex flow structures in a multiple-inlet solid-propellant ducted rocket (SDR) combustor. General tensor representations of the k-epsilon and algebraic stress (ASM) turbulence models are derived in terms of contravariant velocity components, and modification caused by the effects of compressible turbulence is also included in the modeling. The clipped Gaussian probability density function is incorporated in the combustion model to account for fluctuations of properties. Validation of the above modeling is first examined by studying mixing and reacting characteristics in a confined coaxial-jet problem. This is followed by study of nonreacting and reacting SDR combustor flows. The results show that Gibson and Launder's ASM incorporated with Sarkar's modification for compressible turbulence effects based on the general curvilinear coordinate systems yields the most satisfactory prediction for this complicated SDR flowfield.

Computation of turbulent reacting flow in a solid-propellant ducted rocket

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

Chao, Y.; Chou, W.; Liu, S.

1995-05-01

A mathematical model for computation of turbulent reacting flows is developed under general curvilinear coordinate systems. An adaptive, streamline grid system is generated to deal with the complex flow structures in a multiple-inlet solid-propellant ducted rocket (SDR) combustor. General tensor representations of the k-epsilon and algebraic stress (ASM) turbulence models are derived in terms of contravariant velocity components, and modification caused by the effects of compressible turbulence is also included in the modeling. The clipped Gaussian probability density function is incorporated in the combustion model to account for fluctuations of properties. Validation of the above modeling is first examined bymore » studying mixing and reacting characteristics in a confined coaxial-jet problem. This is followed by study of nonreacting and reacting SDR combustor flows. The results show that Gibson and Launder`s ASM incorporated with Sarkar`s modification for compressible turbulence effects based on the general curvilinear coordinate systems yields the most satisfactory prediction for this complicated SDR flowfield. 36 refs.« less

Chronic exposure to low concentrations of strontium 90 affects bone physiology but not the hematopoietic system in mice.

PubMed

Synhaeve, Nicholas; Wade-Gueye, Ndéye Marième; Musilli, Stefania; Stefani, Johanna; Grandcolas, Line; Gruel, Gaëtan; Souidi, Maâmar; Dublineau, Isabelle; Bertho, Jean-Marc

2014-01-01

The aim of this work was to delineate the effects of chronic ingestion of strontium 90 ((90) Sr) at low concentrations on the hematopoiesis and the bone physiology. A mouse model was used for that purpose. Parent animals ingested water containing 20 kBq l(-1) of (90) Sr two weeks before mating. Offspring were then continuously contaminated with (90) Sr through placental transfer during fetal life, through lactation after birth and through drinking water after weaning. At various ages between birth and 20 weeks, animals were tested for hematopoietic parameters such as blood cell counts, colony forming cells in spleen and bone marrow and cytokine concentrations in the plasma. However, we did not find any modification in (90) Sr ingesting animals as compared with control animals. By contrast, the analysis of bone physiology showed a modification of gene expression towards bone resorption. This was confirmed by an increase in C-telopeptide of collagen in the plasma of (90) Sr ingesting animals as compared with control animals. This modification in bone metabolism was not linked to a modification of the phosphocalcic homeostasis, as measured by calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D and parathyroid hormone in the blood. Overall these results suggest that the chronic ingestion of (90) Sr at low concentration in the long term may induce modifications in bone metabolism but not in hematopoiesis. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Biophysical analysis of the effect of chemical modification by 4-oxononenal on the structure, stability, and function of binding immunoglobulin protein (BiP)

PubMed Central

Shah, Dinen D.; Singh, Surinder M.; Dzieciatkowska, Monika

2017-01-01

Binding immunoglobulin protein (BiP) is a molecular chaperone important for the folding of numerous proteins, which include millions of immunoglobulins in human body. It also plays a key role in the unfolded protein response (UPR) in the endoplasmic reticulum. Free radical generation is a common phenomenon that occurs in cells under healthy as well as under stress conditions such as ageing, inflammation, alcohol consumption, and smoking. These free radicals attack the cell membranes and generate highly reactive lipid peroxidation products such as 4-oxononenal (4-ONE). BiP is a key protein that is modified by 4-ONE. In this study, we probed how such chemical modification affects the biophysical properties of BiP. Upon modification, BiP shows significant tertiary structural changes with no changes in its secondary structure. The protein loses its thermodynamic stability, particularly, that of the nucleotide binding domain (NBD) where ATP binds. In terms of function, the modified BiP completely loses its ATPase activity with decreased ATP binding affinity. However, modified BiP retains its immunoglobulin binding function and its chaperone activity of suppressing non-specific protein aggregation. These results indicate that 4-ONE modification can significantly affect the structure-function of key proteins such as BiP involved in cellular pathways, and provide a molecular basis for how chemical modifications can result in the failure of quality control mechanisms inside the cell. PMID:28886061

Air pollution and mortality: effect modification by personal characteristics and specific cause of death in a case-only study.

PubMed

Qiu, Hong; Tian, Linwei; Ho, Kin-Fai; Pun, Vivian C; Wang, Xiaorong; Yu, Ignatius T S

2015-04-01

Short-term effects of air pollution on mortality have been well documented in the literature worldwide. Less is known about which subpopulations are more vulnerable to air pollution. We conducted a case-only study in Hong Kong to examine the potential effect modification by personal characteristics and specific causes of death. Individual information of 402,184 deaths of non-external causes and daily mean concentrations of air pollution were collected from 2001 to 2011. For a 10 μg/m(3) increase of pollution concentration, people aged ≥ ∇65 years (compared with younger ages) had a 0.9-1.8% additional increase in mortality related to PM, NO2, and SO2. People dying from cardiorespiratory diseases (compared with other non-external causes) had a 1.6-2.3% additional increase in PM and NO2 related mortality. Other subgroups that were particularly susceptible were females and those economically inactive. Lower socioeconomic status and causes of cardiorespiratory diseases would increase the likelihood of death associated with air pollution. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effects of exenatide on weight and appetite in overweight adolescents and young adults with Prader-Willi syndrome.

PubMed

Salehi, P; Hsu, I; Azen, C G; Mittelman, S D; Geffner, M E; Jeandron, D

2017-06-01

Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is associated with hyperphagia and hyperghrelinemia with major morbidity because of obesity without effective medical treatment targeting hyperphagia. Exenatide (Byetta [synthetic Exendin-4]; AstraZeneca, Wilmington DE) is a GLP-1 receptor agonist which reduces appetite and weight and may be an effective treatment in PWS. The objective of this study is to determine the effect of a 6-month trial of exenatide on appetite, weight and gut hormones in youth with PWS. Ten overweight and obese subjects with PWS (13-25 years) were recruited for a 6-month open-label, non-randomized, longitudinal study conducted at Children's Hospital Los Angeles. Exenatide was given using standard diabetes dosing without dietary modifications. Weight, body mass index (BMI), truncal fat, appetite and plasma acylated ghrelin were measured over 6 months. Mixed meal tolerance tests were performed at 0 and 6 months. Appetite scores significantly decreased from baseline (32.2 ± 8.7) after 1, 3 and 6 moths of treatment (27.5 ± 8.8, 25.4 ± 9.3, and 25.4 ± 7.2 respectively; p = 0.004). Hemoglobin A1c decreased significantly after treatment, but weight, BMI z-score and adiposity did not. There was no significant change in ghrelin. This is the first longitudinal investigation of the effects of exenatide in subjects with PWS. It was effective in decreasing appetite, without change in weight or BMI in the short term. Larger, controlled, longer-term trials in patients with PWS are needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of exenatide and to evaluate whether its use might induce weight loss when given in conjunction with behavioural modification. © 2016 World Obesity Federation.

Investigating the (cost-) effectiveness of attention bias modification (ABM) for outpatients with major depressive disorder (MDD): a randomized controlled trial protocol.

PubMed

Ferrari, Gina R A; Becker, Eni S; Smit, Filip; Rinck, Mike; Spijker, Jan

2016-11-03

Despite the range of available, evidence-based treatment options for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), the rather low response and remission rates suggest that treatment is not optimal, yet. Computerized attention bias modification (ABM) trainings may have the potential to be provided as cost-effective intervention as adjunct to usual care (UC), by speeding up recovery and bringing more patients into remission. Research suggests, that a selective attention for negative information contributes to development and maintenance of depression and that reducing this negative bias might be of therapeutic value. Previous ABM studies in depression, however, have been limited by small sample sizes, lack of long-term follow-up measures or focus on sub-clinical samples. This study aims at evaluating the long-term (cost-) effectiveness of internet-based ABM, as add-on treatment to UC in adult outpatients with MDD, in a specialized mental health care setting. This study presents a double-blind randomized controlled trial in two parallel groups with follow-ups at 1, 6, and 12 months, combined with an economic evaluation. One hundred twenty six patients, diagnosed with MDD, who are registered for specialized outpatient services at a mental health care organization in the Netherlands, are randomized into either a positive training (towards positive and away from negative stimuli) or a sham training, as control condition (continuous attentional bias assessment). Patients complete eight training sessions (seven at home) during a period of two weeks (four weekly sessions). Primary outcome measures are change in attentional bias (pre- to post-test), mood response to stress (at post-test) and long-term effects on depressive symptoms (up to 1-year follow-up). Secondary outcome measures include rumination, resilience, positive and negative affect, and transfer to other cognitive measures (i.e., attentional bias for verbal stimuli, cognitive control, positive mental imagery), as well as quality of life and costs. This is the first study investigating the long-term effects of ABM in adult outpatients with MDD, alongside an economic evaluation. Next to exploring the mechanism underlying ABM effects, this study provides first insight into the effects of combining ABM and UC and the potential implementation of ABM in clinical practice. Trialregister.nl, NTR5285 . Registered 20 July 2015.

Lower thermosphere (80-100 km) dynamics response to solar and geomagnetic activity: Overview

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kazimirovsky, E. S.

1989-01-01

The variations of solar and geomagnetic activity may affect the thermosphere circulation via plasma heating and electric fields, especially at high latitudes. The possibility exists that the energy involved in auroral and magnetic storms can produce significant changes of mesosphere and lower thermosphere wind systems. A study of global radar measurements of winds at 80 to 100 km region revealed the short term effects (correlation between wind field and geomagnetic storms) and long term variations over a solar cycle. It seems likely that the correlation results from a modification of planetary waves and tides propagated from below, thus altering the dynamical regime of the thermosphere. Sometimes the long term behavior points rather to a climatic variation with the internal atmospheric cause than to a direct solar control.

Long-term effects of the transient COD concentration on the performance of microbial fuel cells.

PubMed

Mateo, S; Gonzalez Del Campo, A; Lobato, J; Rodrigo, M; Cañizares, P; Fernandez-Morales, F J

2016-07-08

In this work, the long-term effects of transient chemical oxygen demands (COD) concentrations over the performance of a microbial fuel cell were studied. From the obtained results, it was observed that the repetitive change in the COD loading rate during 12 h conditioned the behavior of the system during periods of up to 7 days. The main modifications were the enhancement of the COD consumption rate and the exerted current. These enhancements yielded increasing Coulombic efficiencies (CEs) when working with COD concentrations of 300 mg/L, but constant CEs when working with COD concentrations from 900 to 1800 mg/L. This effect could be explained by the higher affinity for the substrate of Geobacter than that of the nonelectrogenic organisms such as Clostridia. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 32:883-890, 2016. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers.

7 CFR 3555.304 - Special servicing options.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... consider a mortgage recovery advance under this section in addition to the extended-term loan modification... required for taxes and insurance. (6) The following terms apply to the repayment of mortgage recovery... does not change the terms of the loan note guarantee. (4) Special servicing options shall be used in...

Impact of ontology evolution on functional analyses.

PubMed

Groß, Anika; Hartung, Michael; Prüfer, Kay; Kelso, Janet; Rahm, Erhard

2012-10-15

Ontologies are used in the annotation and analysis of biological data. As knowledge accumulates, ontologies and annotation undergo constant modifications to reflect this new knowledge. These modifications may influence the results of statistical applications such as functional enrichment analyses that describe experimental data in terms of ontological groupings. Here, we investigate to what degree modifications of the Gene Ontology (GO) impact these statistical analyses for both experimental and simulated data. The analysis is based on new measures for the stability of result sets and considers different ontology and annotation changes. Our results show that past changes in the GO are non-uniformly distributed over different branches of the ontology. Considering the semantic relatedness of significant categories in analysis results allows a more realistic stability assessment for functional enrichment studies. We observe that the results of term-enrichment analyses tend to be surprisingly stable despite changes in ontology and annotation.

Redox signaling in the cardiomyocyte: From physiology to failure.

PubMed

Santos, Celio X C; Raza, Sadaf; Shah, Ajay M

2016-05-01

The specific effect of oxygen and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in mediating post-translational modification of protein targets has emerged as a key mechanism regulating signaling components, a process termed redox signaling. ROS act in the post-translational modification of multiple target proteins including receptors, kinases, phosphatases, ion channels and transcription factors. Both O2 and ROS are major source of electrons in redox reactions in aerobic organisms. Because the heart has the highest O2 consumption among body organs, it is not surprising that redox signaling is central to heart function and pathophysiology. In this article, we review some of the main cardiac redox signaling pathways and their roles in the cardiomyocyte and in heart failure, with particular focus on the specific molecular targets of ROS in the heart. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Engineered/designer biochar for contaminant removal/immobilization from soil and water: Potential and implication of biochar modification.

PubMed

Rajapaksha, Anushka Upamali; Chen, Season S; Tsang, Daniel C W; Zhang, Ming; Vithanage, Meththika; Mandal, Sanchita; Gao, Bin; Bolan, Nanthi S; Ok, Yong Sik

2016-04-01

The use of biochar has been suggested as a means of remediating contaminated soil and water. The practical applications of conventional biochar for contaminant immobilization and removal however need further improvements. Hence, recent attention has focused on modification of biochar with novel structures and surface properties in order to improve its remediation efficacy and environmental benefits. Engineered/designer biochars are commonly used terms to indicate application-oriented, outcome-based biochar modification or synthesis. In recent years, biochar modifications involving various methods such as, acid treatment, base treatment, amination, surfactant modification, impregnation of mineral sorbents, steam activation and magnetic modification have been widely studied. This review summarizes and evaluates biochar modification methods, corresponding mechanisms, and their benefits for contaminant management in soil and water. Applicability and performance of modification methods depend on the type of contaminants (i.e., inorganic/organic, anionic/cationic, hydrophilic/hydrophobic, polar/non-polar), environmental conditions, remediation goals, and land use purpose. In general, modification to produce engineered/designer biochar is likely to enhance the sorption capacity of biochar and its potential applications for environmental remediation. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Assessment of the Effects of Entrainment and Wind Shear on Nuclear Cloud Rise Modeling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zalewski, Daniel; Jodoin, Vincent

2001-04-01

Accurate modeling of nuclear cloud rise is critical in hazard prediction following a nuclear detonation. This thesis recommends improvements to the model currently used by DOD. It considers a single-term versus a three-term entrainment equation, the value of the entrainment and eddy viscous drag parameters, as well as the effect of wind shear in the cloud rise following a nuclear detonation. It examines departures from the 1979 version of the Department of Defense Land Fallout Interpretive Code (DELFIC) with the current code used in the Hazard Prediction and Assessment Capability (HPAC) code version 3.2. The recommendation for a single-term entrainment equation, with constant value parameters, without wind shear corrections, and without cloud oscillations is based on both a statistical analysis using 67 U.S. nuclear atmospheric test shots and the physical representation of the modeling. The statistical analysis optimized the parameter values of interest for four cases: the three-term entrainment equation with wind shear and without wind shear as well as the single-term entrainment equation with and without wind shear. The thesis then examines the effect of cloud oscillations as a significant departure in the code. Modifications to user input atmospheric tables are identified as a potential problem in the calculation of stabilized cloud dimensions in HPAC.

Behavior Change; Weight Loss, and Physiological Improvements in Type II Diabetic Patients.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wing, Rena R.; And Others

1985-01-01

Investigated whether behavior modification would improve short- and long-term results of weight control programs for obese patients (N=53) with Type II diabetes. The behavior modification group lost more weight than the nutrition education or standard-care condition during the 16-week treatment, but at 16-month follow-up, weight loss differences…

The Globalization of Higher Education--Be Responsible and Survive the Changes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Havlicek, Jaroslav; Pelikan, Martin

2013-01-01

The ongoing social changes taking place on a global scale have made universities respond to these new challenges by offering new study programmes, implementing modifications of study plans, taking up new research focus as well as by broadening the offer of adult education. These changes necessarily require modifications in terms of the structure…

A Novel Post-translational Modification of Nucleolin, SUMOylation at Lys-294, Mediates Arsenite-induced Cell Death by Regulating gadd45α mRNA Stability*

PubMed Central

Zhang, Dongyun; Liang, Yuguang; Xie, Qipeng; Gao, Guangxun; Wei, Jinlong; Huang, Haishan; Li, Jingxia; Gao, Jimin; Huang, Chuanshu

2015-01-01

Nucleolin is a ubiquitously expressed protein and participates in many important biological processes, such as cell cycle regulation and ribosomal biogenesis. The activity of nucleolin is regulated by intracellular localization and post-translational modifications, including phosphorylation, methylation, and ADP-ribosylation. Small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO) is a category of recently verified forms of post-translational modifications and exerts various effects on the target proteins. In the studies reported here, we discovered SUMOylational modification of human nucleolin protein at Lys-294, which facilitated the mRNA binding property of nucleolin by maintaining its nuclear localization. In response to arsenic exposure, nucleolin-SUMO was induced and promoted its binding with gadd45α mRNA, which increased gadd45α mRNA stability and protein expression, subsequently causing GADD45α-mediated cell death. On the other hand, ectopic expression of Mn-SOD attenuated the arsenite-generated superoxide radical level, abrogated nucleolin-SUMO, and in turn inhibited arsenite-induced apoptosis by reducing GADD45α expression. Collectively, our results for the first time demonstrate that nucleolin-SUMO at K294R plays a critical role in its nucleus sequestration and gadd45α mRNA binding activity. This novel biological function of nucleolin is distinct from its conventional role as a proto-oncogene. Therefore, our findings here not only reveal a new modification of nucleolin protein and its novel functional paradigm in mRNA metabolism but also expand our understanding of the dichotomous roles of nucleolin in terms of cancer development, which are dependent on multiple intracellular conditions and consequently the appropriate regulations of its modifications, including SUMOylation. PMID:25561743

Cost/benefit tradeoffs for reducing the energy consumption of the commercial air transportation system. Volume 1: Technical analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kraus, E. F.

1976-01-01

The effectiveness and associated costs of operational and technical options for reduced fuel consumption by Douglas aircraft in the domestic airline fleet are assessed. Areas explored include alternative procedures for airline and flight operations, advanced and state of the art technology, modification and derivative configurations, new near-term aircraft, turboprop configuration studies, and optimum aircraft geometry. Data for each aircraft studied is presented in tables and graphs.

A long term model of circulation. [human body

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

White, R. J.

1974-01-01

A quantitative approach to modeling human physiological function, with a view toward ultimate application to long duration space flight experiments, was undertaken. Data was obtained on the effect of weightlessness on certain aspects of human physiological function during 1-3 month periods. Modifications in the Guyton model are reviewed. Design considerations for bilateral interface models are discussed. Construction of a functioning whole body model was studied, as well as the testing of the model versus available data.

Symposium Proceedings on Quantitative Feedback Theory Held in Fairborn, Ohio on 2-4 August 1992.

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-08-01

modification. This permits a drastic reduction in the cost of feedback, in terms of loop bandwidth and effect of sensor noise . This is the first...High- frequency Bound ( UHB ) but its main use is to ensure that at high frequencies the controlled system cannot go unstable and has sufficient noise ...a 5-cascaded multiple-loop feedback system giving significant reductions in sensor noise amplification (peak reduced by a factor of 4), is

Lessons From the Dot Contraceptive Efficacy Study: Analysis of the Use of Agile Development to Improve Recruitment and Enrollment for mHealth Research

PubMed Central

2018-01-01

Background Smartphone apps that provide women with information about their daily fertility status during their menstrual cycles can contribute to the contraceptive method mix. However, if these apps claim to help a user prevent pregnancy, they must undergo similar rigorous research required for other contraceptive methods. Georgetown University’s Institute for Reproductive Health is conducting a prospective longitudinal efficacy trial on Dot (Dynamic Optimal Timing), an algorithm-based fertility app designed to help women prevent pregnancy. Objective The aim of this paper was to highlight decision points during the recruitment-enrollment process and the effect of modifications on enrollment numbers and demographics. Recruiting eligible research participants for a contraceptive efficacy study and enrolling an adequate number to statistically assess the effectiveness of Dot is critical. Recruiting and enrolling participants for the Dot study involved making decisions based on research and analytic data, constant process modification, and close monitoring and evaluation of the effect of these modifications. Methods Originally, the only option for women to enroll in the study was to do so over the phone with a study representative. On noticing low enrollment numbers, we examined the 7 steps from the time a woman received the recruitment message until she completed enrollment and made modifications accordingly. In modification 1, we added call-back and voicemail procedures to increase the number of completed calls. Modification 2 involved using a chat and instant message (IM) features to facilitate study enrollment. In modification 3, the process was fully automated to allow participants to enroll in the study without the aid of study representatives. Results After these modifications were implemented, 719 women were enrolled in the study over a 6-month period. The majority of participants (494/719, 68.7%) were enrolled during modification 3, in which they had the option to enroll via phone, chat, or the fully automated process. Overall, 29.2% (210/719) of the participants were enrolled via a phone call, 19.9% (143/719) via chat/IM, and 50.9% (366/719) directly through the fully automated process. With respect to the demographic profile of our study sample, we found a significant statistical difference in education level across all modifications (P<.05) but not in age or race or ethnicity (P>.05). Conclusions Our findings show that agile and consistent modifications to the recruitment and enrollment process were necessary to yield an appropriate sample size. An automated process resulted in significantly higher enrollment rates than one that required phone interaction with study representatives. Although there were some differences in demographic characteristics of enrollees as the process was modified, in general, our study population is diverse and reflects the overall United States population in terms of race/ethnicity, age, and education. Additional research is proposed to identify how differences in mode of enrollment and demographic characteristics may affect participants’ performance in the study. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02833922; http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02833922 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6yj5FHrBh) PMID:29678802

Does a single gait training session performed either overground or on a treadmill induce specific short-term effects on gait parameters in patients with hemiparesis? A randomized controlled study.

PubMed

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

2013-01-01

Gait training for patients with hemiparesis is carried out independently overground or on a treadmill. Several studies have shown differences in hemiparetic gait parameters during overground versus treadmill walking. However, few studies have compared the effects of these 2 gait training conditions on gait parameters, and no study has compared the short-term effects of these techniques on all biomechanical gait parameters. To determine whether a gait training session performed overground or on a treadmill induces specific short-term effects on biomechanical gait parameters in patients with hemiparesis. Twenty-six subjects with hemiparesis were randomly assigned to a single session of either overground or treadmill gait training. The short-term effects on spatiotemporal, kinematic, and kinetic gait parameters were assessed using gait analysis before and immediately after the training and after a 20-minute rest. Speed, cadence, percentage of single support phase, peak knee extension, peak propulsion, and braking on the paretic side were significantly increased after the gait training session. However, there were no specific changes dependent on the type of gait training performed (overground or on a treadmill). A gait training session performed by subjects with hemiparesis overground or on a treadmill did not induce specific short-term effects on biomechanical gait parameters. The increase in gait velocity that followed a gait training session seemed to reflect specific modifications of the paretic lower limb and adaptation of the nonparetic lower limb.

Effect of Standing or Walking at a Workstation on Cognitive Function: A Randomized Counterbalanced Trial.

PubMed

Bantoft, Christina; Summers, Mathew J; Tranent, Peter J; Palmer, Matthew A; Cooley, P Dean; Pedersen, Scott J

2016-02-01

In the present study, we examined the effect of working while seated, while standing, or while walking on measures of short-term memory, working memory, selective and sustained attention, and information-processing speed. The advent of computer-based technology has revolutionized the adult workplace, such that average adult full-time employees spend the majority of their working day seated. Prolonged sitting is associated with increasing obesity and chronic health conditions in children and adults. One possible intervention to reduce the negative health impacts of the modern office environment involves modifying the workplace to increase incidental activity and exercise during the workday. Although modifications, such as sit-stand desks, have been shown to improve physiological function, there is mixed information regarding the impact of such office modification on individual cognitive performance and thereby the efficiency of the work environment. In a fully counterbalanced randomized control trial, we assessed the cognitive performance of 45 undergraduate students for up to a 1-hr period in each condition. The results indicate that there is no significant change in the measures used to assess cognitive performance associated with working while seated, while standing, or while walking at low intensity. These results indicate that cognitive performance is not degraded with short-term use of alternate workstations. © 2015, Human Factors and Ergonomics Society.

Cosmology in time asymmetric extensions of general relativity

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

Leon, Genly; Saridakis, Emmanuel N., E-mail: genly.leon@ucv.cl, E-mail: Emmanuel_Saridakis@baylor.edu

We investigate the cosmological behavior in a universe governed by time asymmetric extensions of general relativity, which is a novel modified gravity based on the addition of new, time-asymmetric, terms on the Hamiltonian framework, in a way that the algebra of constraints and local physics remain unchanged. Nevertheless, at cosmological scales these new terms can have significant effects that can alter the universe evolution, both at early and late times, and the freedom in the choice of the involved modification function makes the scenario able to produce a huge class of cosmological behaviors. For basic ansatzes of modification, we performmore » a detailed dynamical analysis, extracting the stable late-time solutions. Amongst others, we find that the universe can result in dark-energy dominated, accelerating solutions, even in the absence of an explicit cosmological constant, in which the dark energy can be quintessence-like, phantom-like, or behave as an effective cosmological constant. Moreover, it can result to matter-domination, or to a Big Rip, or experience the sequence from matter to dark energy domination. Additionally, in the case of closed curvature, the universe may experience a cosmological bounce or turnaround, or even cyclic behavior. Finally, these scenarios can easily satisfy the observational and phenomenological requirements. Hence, time asymmetric cosmology can be a good candidate for the description of the universe.« less

Synaptic Transmission Optimization Predicts Expression Loci of Long-Term Plasticity.

PubMed

Costa, Rui Ponte; Padamsey, Zahid; D'Amour, James A; Emptage, Nigel J; Froemke, Robert C; Vogels, Tim P

2017-09-27

Long-term modifications of neuronal connections are critical for reliable memory storage in the brain. However, their locus of expression-pre- or postsynaptic-is highly variable. Here we introduce a theoretical framework in which long-term plasticity performs an optimization of the postsynaptic response statistics toward a given mean with minimal variance. Consequently, the state of the synapse at the time of plasticity induction determines the ratio of pre- and postsynaptic modifications. Our theory explains the experimentally observed expression loci of the hippocampal and neocortical synaptic potentiation studies we examined. Moreover, the theory predicts presynaptic expression of long-term depression, consistent with experimental observations. At inhibitory synapses, the theory suggests a statistically efficient excitatory-inhibitory balance in which changes in inhibitory postsynaptic response statistics specifically target the mean excitation. Our results provide a unifying theory for understanding the expression mechanisms and functions of long-term synaptic transmission plasticity. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Ambient air pollution, lung function, and airway responsiveness in asthmatic children.

PubMed

Ierodiakonou, Despo; Zanobetti, Antonella; Coull, Brent A; Melly, Steve; Postma, Dirkje S; Boezen, H Marike; Vonk, Judith M; Williams, Paul V; Shapiro, Gail G; McKone, Edward F; Hallstrand, Teal S; Koenig, Jane Q; Schildcrout, Jonathan S; Lumley, Thomas; Fuhlbrigge, Anne N; Koutrakis, Petros; Schwartz, Joel; Weiss, Scott T; Gold, Diane R

2016-02-01

Although ambient air pollution has been linked to reduced lung function in healthy children, longitudinal analyses of pollution effects in asthmatic patients are lacking. We sought to investigate pollution effects in a longitudinal asthma study and effect modification by controller medications. We examined associations of lung function and methacholine responsiveness (PC20) with ozone, carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide concentrations in 1003 asthmatic children participating in a 4-year clinical trial. We further investigated whether budesonide and nedocromil modified pollution effects. Daily pollutant concentrations were linked to ZIP/postal code of residence. Linear mixed models tested associations of within-subject pollutant concentrations with FEV1 and forced vital capacity (FVC) percent predicted, FEV1/FVC ratio, and PC20, adjusting for seasonality and confounders. Same-day and 1-week average CO concentrations were negatively associated with postbronchodilator percent predicted FEV1 (change per interquartile range, -0.33 [95% CI, -0.49 to -0.16] and -0.41 [95% CI, -0.62 to -0.21], respectively) and FVC (-0.19 [95% CI, -0.25 to -0.07] and -0.25 [95% CI, -0.43 to -0.07], respectively). Longer-term 4-month CO averages were negatively associated with prebronchodilator percent predicted FEV1 and FVC (-0.36 [95% CI, -0.62 to -0.10] and -0.21 [95% CI, -0.42 to -0.01], respectively). Four-month averaged CO and ozone concentrations were negatively associated with FEV1/FVC ratio (P < .05). Increased 4-month average nitrogen dioxide concentrations were associated with reduced postbronchodilator FEV1 and FVC percent predicted. Long-term exposures to sulfur dioxide were associated with reduced PC20 (percent change per interquartile range, -6% [95% CI, -11% to -1.5%]). Treatment augmented the negative short-term CO effect on PC20. Air pollution adversely influences lung function and PC20 in asthmatic children. Treatment with controller medications might not protect but rather worsens the effects of CO on PC20. This clinical trial design evaluates modification of pollution effects by treatment without confounding by indication. Copyright © 2015 American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Ambient air pollution, lung function and airway responsiveness in children with asthma

PubMed Central

Ierodiakonou, Despo; Zanobetti, Antonella; Coull, Brent A.; Melly, Steve; Postma, Dirkje S.; Boezen, H. Marike; Vonk, Judith M.; Williams, Paul V.; Shapiro, Gail G.; McKone, Edward F.; Hallstrand, Teal S.; Koenig, Jane Q.; Schildcrout, Jonathan S.; Lumley, Thomas; Fuhlbrigge, Anne N.; Koutrakis, Petros; Schwartz, Joel; Weiss, Scott T.; Gold, Diane R

2016-01-01

Background Although ambient air pollution has been linked to reduced lung function in healthy children, longitudinal analyses of pollution effects in asthma are lacking. Objective To investigate pollution effects in a longitudinal asthma study and effect modification by controller medications. Methods We examined associations of lung function and methacholine responsiveness (PC20) with ozone, carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and sulfur dioxide (SO2) levels in 1,003 asthmatic children participating in a 4-year clinical trial. We further investigated whether budesonide and nedocromil modified pollution effects. Daily pollutant concentrations were linked to zip/postal code of residence. Linear mixed models tested associations of within-subject pollutant concentrations with FEV1 and FVC %predicted, FEV1/FVC and PC20, adjusting for seasonality and confounders. Results Same-day and 1-week average CO levels were negatively associated with post-bronchodilator %predicted FEV1 (change(95%CI) per IQR: −0.33(−0.49, −0.16), −0.41(−0.62, −0.21), respectively) and FVC (−0.19(−0.25, −0.07), −0.25(−0.43, −0.07)). Longer-term four-month averages of CO were negatively associated with prebronchodilator %predicted FEV1 and FVC (−0.36(−0.62, −0.10), −0.21(−0.42, −0.01)). Four-month averaged CO and ozone levels were negatively associated with FEV1/FVC (p<0.05). Increased four-month average NO2 levels were associated with reduced post-bronchodilator FEV1 and FVC %predicted. Long-term exposures to SO2 were associated with reduced PC20 (%change(95%CI) per IQR:-6(-11,-1.5)). Treatment augmented the negative short-term CO effect on PC20. Conclusions Air pollution adversely influences lung function and PC20 in asthmatic children. Treatment with controller medications may not protect but worsens the CO effects on PC20. This clinical trial design evaluates modification of pollution effects by treatment without confounding by indication. PMID:26187234

Epigenetic mechanisms underlying the toxic effects associated with arsenic exposure and the development of diabetes.

PubMed

Khan, Fazlullah; Momtaz, Saeideh; Niaz, Kamal; Hassan, Fatima Ismail; Abdollahi, Mohammad

2017-09-01

Exposure to inorganic arsenic (iAs) is a major threat to the human health worldwide. The consumption of arsenic in drinking water and other food products is associated with the risk of development of type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The available experimental evidence indicates that epigenetic alterations may play an important role in the development of diseases that are linked with exposure to environmental toxicants. iAs seems to be associated with the epigenetic modifications such as alterations in DNA methylation, histone modifications, and micro RNA (miRNA) abundance. This article reviewed epigenetic mechanisms underlying the toxic effects associated with arsenic exposure and the development of diabetes. Electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus and Google scholar were searched for published literature from 1980 to 2017. Searched MESH terms were "Arsenic", "Epigenetic mechanism", "DNA methylation", "Histone modifications" and "Diabetes". There are various factors involved in the pathogenesis of T2DM but it is assumed that arsenic consumption causes the epigenetic alterations both at the gene-specific level and generalized genome level. The research indicates that exposure from low to moderate concentrations of iAs is linked with the epigenetic effects. In addition, it is evident that, arsenic can change the components of the epigenome and hence induces diabetes through epigenetic mechanisms, such as alterations in glucose transport and/or metabolism and insulin expression/secretion. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Reduction of aircraft gas turbine engine pollutant emissions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Diehl, L. A.

1978-01-01

To accomplish simultaneous reduction of unburned hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and oxides of nitrogen, required major modifications to the combustor. The modification most commonly used was a staged combustion technique. While these designs are more complicated than production combustors, no insurmountable operational difficulties were encountered in either high pressure rig or engine tests which could not be resolved with additional normal development. The emission reduction results indicate that reductions in unburned hydrocarbons were sufficient to satisfy both near and far-termed EPA requirements. Although substantial reductions were observed, the success in achieving the CO and NOx standards was mixed and depended heavily on the engine/engine cycle on which it was employed. Technology for near term CO reduction was satisfactory or marginally satisfactory. Considerable doubt exists if this technology will satisfy all far-term requirements.

Simulation of Halocarbon Production and Emissions and Effects on Ozone Depletion

PubMed

Holmes; Ellis

1997-09-01

/ This paper describes an integrated model that simulates future halocarbon production/emissions and potential ozone depletion. Applications and historical production levels for various halocarbons are discussed first. A framework is then presented for modeling future halocarbon impacts incorporating differences in underlying demands, applications, regulatory mandates, and environmental characteristics. The model is used to simulate the potential impacts of several prominent issues relating to halocarbon production, regulation, and environmental interactions, notably: changes in agricultural methyl bromide use, increases in effectiveness of bromine for ozone depletion, modifications to the elimination schedule for HCFCs, short-term expansion of CFC demand in low use compliance countries, and delays in Russian Federation compliance. Individually, each issue does not unequivocally represent a significant likely increase in long-term atmospheric halogen loading and stratospheric ozone depletion. In combination, however, these impacts could increase peak halogen concentrations and long-term integral halogen loading, resulting in higher levels of stratospheric ozone depletion and longer exposure to increased levels of UV radiation.KEY WORDS: Halocarbons; Ozone depletion; Montreal Protocol; Integrated assessment

Generalized modification in the lattice Bhatnagar-Gross-Krook model for incompressible Navier-Stokes equations and convection-diffusion equations.

PubMed

Yang, Xuguang; Shi, Baochang; Chai, Zhenhua

2014-07-01

In this paper, two modified lattice Boltzmann Bhatnagar-Gross-Krook (LBGK) models for incompressible Navier-Stokes equations and convection-diffusion equations are proposed via the addition of correction terms in the evolution equations. Utilizing this modification, the value of the dimensionless relaxation time in the LBGK model can be kept in a proper range, and thus the stability of the LBGK model can be improved. Although some gradient operators are included in the correction terms, they can be computed efficiently using local computational schemes such that the present LBGK models still retain the intrinsic parallelism characteristic of the lattice Boltzmann method. Numerical studies of the steady Poiseuille flow and unsteady Womersley flow show that the modified LBGK model has a second-order convergence rate in space, and the compressibility effect in the common LBGK model can be eliminated. In addition, to test the stability of the present models, we also performed some simulations of the natural convection in a square cavity, and we found that the results agree well with those reported in the previous work, even at a very high Rayleigh number (Ra = 10(12)).

Chiropractic curriculum mapping and congruence of the evidence for workplace interventions in work-related neck pain

PubMed Central

Frutiger, Martin; Tuchin, Peter Jeffery

2017-01-01

Objective: The purpose of this study was to provide a best-synthesis summary of the literature for effective workplace health promotion interventions (WHPI) for work-related mechanical neck pain (MNP) and to determine the congruence between knowledge of WHPI for work-related MNP and coverage of MNP in the chiropractic postgraduate program at Macquarie University. Methods: A literature review was undertaken to determine effective WHPI for work-related MNP. We searched Cochrane Library, PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, and PEDro (from 1991 to 2016) for systematic reviews and meta-analyses. The PRISMA (2009) 27-item checklist was used to critically appraise included articles. Lectures, tutorials, and assessment tasks within the chiropractic postgraduate program were mapped to the literature review findings and analyzed. Results: There was moderate-quality evidence for multidimensional WHPI, including aspects of mental and physical functioning, activity performance and modifications, and environmental modifications, to reduce MNP and disability in workers, particularly in the long term. Education on coverage of MNP and effective WHPI for MNP was inadequately covered although congruent with synthesis of current literature. Education on body functions and structures and personal factors were the most commonly covered components. Conclusion: Multidimensional WHPI, focusing on physical, mental, and environmental modifications, appear to reduce self-reported MNP primarily in office workers. There is adequate congruence between the chiropractic postgraduate program at Macquarie University and the published literature on some WHPI. However, there is inadequate coverage on aspects of MNP and effective WHPI for MNP, particularly those focusing on activity and participation and environmental factors. PMID:28742974

Chiropractic curriculum mapping and congruence of the evidence for workplace interventions in work-related neck pain.

PubMed

Frutiger, Martin; Tuchin, Peter Jeffery

2017-10-01

The purpose of this study was to provide a best-synthesis summary of the literature for effective workplace health promotion interventions (WHPI) for work-related mechanical neck pain (MNP) and to determine the congruence between knowledge of WHPI for work-related MNP and coverage of MNP in the chiropractic postgraduate program at Macquarie University. A literature review was undertaken to determine effective WHPI for work-related MNP. We searched Cochrane Library, PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, and PEDro (from 1991 to 2016) for systematic reviews and meta-analyses. The PRISMA (2009) 27-item checklist was used to critically appraise included articles. Lectures, tutorials, and assessment tasks within the chiropractic postgraduate program were mapped to the literature review findings and analyzed. There was moderate-quality evidence for multidimensional WHPI, including aspects of mental and physical functioning, activity performance and modifications, and environmental modifications, to reduce MNP and disability in workers, particularly in the long term. Education on coverage of MNP and effective WHPI for MNP was inadequately covered although congruent with synthesis of current literature. Education on body functions and structures and personal factors were the most commonly covered components. Multidimensional WHPI, focusing on physical, mental, and environmental modifications, appear to reduce self-reported MNP primarily in office workers. There is adequate congruence between the chiropractic postgraduate program at Macquarie University and the published literature on some WHPI. However, there is inadequate coverage on aspects of MNP and effective WHPI for MNP, particularly those focusing on activity and participation and environmental factors.

The way from microscopic many-particle theory to macroscopic hydrodynamics.

PubMed

Haussmann, Rudolf

2016-03-23

Starting from the microscopic description of a normal fluid in terms of any kind of local interacting many-particle theory we present a well defined step by step procedure to derive the hydrodynamic equations for the macroscopic phenomena. We specify the densities of the conserved quantities as the relevant hydrodynamic variables and apply the methods of non-equilibrium statistical mechanics with projection operator techniques. As a result we obtain time-evolution equations for the hydrodynamic variables with three kinds of terms on the right-hand sides: reversible, dissipative and fluctuating terms. In their original form these equations are completely exact and contain nonlocal terms in space and time which describe nonlocal memory effects. Applying a few approximations the nonlocal properties and the memory effects are removed. As a result we find the well known hydrodynamic equations of a normal fluid with Gaussian fluctuating forces. In the following we investigate if and how the time-inversion invariance is broken and how the second law of thermodynamics comes about. Furthermore, we show that the hydrodynamic equations with fluctuating forces are equivalent to stochastic Langevin equations and the related Fokker-Planck equation. Finally, we investigate the fluctuation theorem and find a modification by an additional term.

Long-term effects of an educational intervention on self-medication and appropriate drug use in single-sex secondary public schools, Quito, Ecuador

PubMed Central

Maldonado, Juan-Carlos; Meléndez, Sergio D; Figueras, Albert

2007-01-01

What is already known about this subject Self-medication is extensively practised in both developed and less-developed countries, sometimes inappropriately. Educational intervention in secondary schools has been proven to be useful. Most educational interventions in adolescent populations have focused on the reduction of addictive substance abuse. What this study adds Educational intervention can improve knowledge about self-medication and reduce misconceptions about diarrhoea, common cold and vitamins in an adolescent population. A specific lecture followed by small working-group seminars produces better results than a general lecture alone in terms of ‘knowledge’ and ‘attitude’. The positive effects of the intervention are detectable even 1 year later. Yearly reinforcing interventions while in secondary school would allow long-lasting effects. Aim Improving knowledge about rational drug use at an early age may be a good way to increase the population’s awareness of health, medicines and self-medication. We set out to evaluate the short- and long-term effects of an educational intervention to promote rational drug use and self-medication in secondary school students. Methods A non-randomized, controlled clinical trial. The participants were 367 female students (10–13 years old) from two secondary public schools of the metropolitan district of Quito (Ecuador). The educational campaign had two components [a specific lecture (intervention and control schools) and subsequent small working group seminars (intervention school)] providing short and clear messages of five topics related to rational drug use. The main outcome measures were an increase in ‘knowledge’ short term (1 month) and long term (up to 1 year) after intervention and the relative risk (RR) reduction in misconceptions or wrong ideas about medicine use. Results The intervention group showed a significant increase in knowledge both short and long term and in comparison with the control group, mainly regarding oral rehydration salts preparation (+59.4%; P < 0.001), lack of multivitamin energizer action (+57.4%; P < 0.001), healthy growth effects (+53.3%; P < 0.001) and the perception that medicines’ promotional activities do not teach how to take care of health (+54.0%; P < 0.001). A RR reduction in misconceptions about drugs was found short term and long term. The intervention group was less predisposed to consume antidiarrhoeals [RR = 0.75, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.62, 0.92], cough suppressants (0.44, 95% CI 0.35, 0.55) and other medicines for the common cold (0.56, 95% CI 0.45, 0.70). Misconceptions concerning the benefits of multivitamin preparations were reduced in 73%; additionally, the intervention group showed a decrease in their consumption (43.9% basal; 25.3% short term and 25.6% long term; P < 0.001). Conclusion It is possible to achieve a favourable modification of attitudes to appropriate use of medicines in a teenage population and this modification lasts at least 1 year. Continuous reinforcing interventions would allow better and long-lasting effects and could help to fill the gap in health education of the general population. PMID:16939527

Biological effects of the electrostatic field: red blood cell-related alterations of oxidative processes in blood

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harutyunyan, Hayk A.; Sahakyan, Gohar V.

2016-01-01

The aim of this study was to determine activities of pro-/antioxidant enzymes, reactive oxygen species (ROS) content, and oxidative modification of proteins and lipids in red blood cells (RBCs) and blood plasma of rats exposed to electrostatic field (200 kV/m) during the short (1 h) and the long periods (6 day, 6 h daily). Short-term exposure was characterized by the increase of oxidatively damaged proteins in blood of rats. This was strongly expressed in RBC membranes. After long-term action, RBC content in peripheral blood was higher than in control ( P < 0.01) and the attenuation of prooxidant processes was shown.

Composition of complex numbers: Delineating the computational role of the left anterior temporal lobe.

PubMed

Blanco-Elorrieta, Esti; Pylkkänen, Liina

2016-01-01

What is the neurobiological basis of our ability to create complex messages with language? Results from multiple methodologies have converged on a set of brain regions as relevant for this general process, but the computational details of these areas remain to be characterized. The left anterior temporal lobe (LATL) has been a consistent node within this network, with results suggesting that although it rather systematically shows increased activation for semantically complex structured stimuli, this effect does not extend to number phrases such as 'three books.' In the present work we used magnetoencephalography to investigate whether numbers in general are an invalid input to the combinatory operations housed in the LATL or whether the lack of LATL engagement for stimuli such as 'three books' is due to the quantificational nature of such phrases. As a relevant test case, we employed complex number terms such as 'twenty-three', where one number term is not a quantifier of the other but rather, the two terms form a type of complex concept. In a number naming paradigm, participants viewed rows of numbers and depending on task instruction, named them as complex number terms ('twenty-three'), numerical quantifications ('two threes'), adjectival modifications ('blue threes') or non-combinatory lists (e.g., 'two, three'). While quantificational phrases failed to engage the LATL as compared to non-combinatory controls, both complex number terms and adjectival modifications elicited a reliable activity increase in the LATL. Our results show that while the LATL does not participate in the enumeration of tokens within a set, exemplified by the quantificational phrases, it does support conceptual combination, including the composition of complex number concepts. Copyright © 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Mid-term 4-Year Outcomes with Single Anastomosis Duodenal-Ileal Bypass with Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery at a Single US Center.

PubMed

Zaveri, Hinali; Surve, Amit; Cottam, Daniel; Cottam, Austin; Medlin, Walter; Richards, Christina; Belnap, LeGrand; Cottam, Samuel; Horsley, Benjamin

2018-06-16

Single anastomosis duodenal-ileal bypass with sleeve gastrectomy (SADI-S) is a modification of Roux-en-Y duodenal switch (RYDS). Long-term data on this operation is lacking in the literature. We reviewed our mid-term data of this RYDS modification. To analyze the outcomes with SADI-S at 4 years. Data from patients who underwent a primary SADI-S procedure performed by three surgeons at a single institution from June 2013 through February 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. All revision bariatric surgeries were excluded. Regression analyses were performed for all follow-up weight loss data. There were 437 patients in our database. The pre-operative mean body mass index (BMI) was 49.8 ± 8.8 kg/m 2 . The 30-day complication rate was 7.7%. The 30-day readmission, reoperation, and mortality rates were 1.8, 1.3, and 0.2%, respectively. The long-term complication rate was 10.9%. Seventy-nine patients were 4 years post SADI-S surgery and follow-up was possible for 44 patients (55.7%). At 4 years, patients had an average change in BMI of 18.1 ± 6 units with an excess weight loss (EWL) of 85.7 ± 27.3%. At 4 years, 97.6% patients were able to maintain HbA1c < 6% with or without the use of diabetic medication. There was a statistically significant difference between most of the pre-operative and post-operative nutritional data. SADI-S is a safe and effective procedure in both short- and mid-term data points. Diabetes resolution and weight loss appear similar to traditional RYDS and better than RYGB.

7 CFR 1980.373 - Special loan servicing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... modification, then the Lender may consider a mortgage recovery advance in addition to the extended-term loan... recovery advance is not repaid based on the terms outlined in the promissory note and mortgage or deed-of... maximum allowable interest rate and extend the term of the loan up to 40 years from the date of loan...

7 CFR 1980.373 - Special loan servicing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... modification, then the Lender may consider a mortgage recovery advance in addition to the extended-term loan... recovery advance is not repaid based on the terms outlined in the promissory note and mortgage or deed-of... maximum allowable interest rate and extend the term of the loan up to 40 years from the date of loan...

7 CFR 1980.373 - Special loan servicing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... modification, then the Lender may consider a mortgage recovery advance in addition to the extended-term loan... recovery advance is not repaid based on the terms outlined in the promissory note and mortgage or deed-of... maximum allowable interest rate and extend the term of the loan up to 40 years from the date of loan...

7 CFR 1980.373 - Special loan servicing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... modification, then the Lender may consider a mortgage recovery advance in addition to the extended-term loan... recovery advance is not repaid based on the terms outlined in the promissory note and mortgage or deed-of... maximum allowable interest rate and extend the term of the loan up to 40 years from the date of loan...

Snyder-like modified gravity in Newton's spacetime

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leiva, Carlos

This work is focused on searching a geodesic interpretation of the dynamics of a particle under the effects of a Snyder-like deformation in the background of the Kepler problem. In order to accomplish that task, a Newtonian spacetime is used. Newtonian spacetime is not a metric manifold, but allows to introduce a torsion-free connection in order to interpret the dynamic equations of the deformed Kepler problem as geodesics in a curved spacetime. These geodesics and the curvature terms of the Riemann and Ricci tensors show a mass and a fundamental length dependence as expected, but are velocity-independent that is a feature present in other classical approaches to the problem. In this sense, the effect of introducing a deformed algebra is examined and the corresponding curvature terms calculated, as well as the modifications of the integrals of motion.

A Single Brief Burst Induces GluR1-Dependent Associative Short-Term Potentiation: A Potential Mechanism for Short-Term Memory

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Erickson, Martha A.; Maramara, Lauren A.; Lisman, John

2010-01-01

Recent work showed that short-term memory (STM) is selectively reduced in GluR1 knockout mice. This raises the possibility that a form of synaptic modification dependent on GluR1 might underlie STM. Studies of synaptic plasticity have shown that stimuli too weak to induce long-term potentiation induce short-term potentiation (STP), a phenomenon…

The use of functional appliances in contemporary orthodontic practice.

PubMed

DiBiase, A T; Cobourne, M T; Lee, R T

2015-02-16

Functional appliances have been used for over 100 years in orthodontics to correct Class II malocclusion. During this time numerous different systems have been developed often accompanied by claims of modification and enhancement of growth. Recent clinical evidence has questioned whether they really have a lasting influence on facial growth, their skeletal effects appearing to be short term. However, despite these findings, the clinical effectiveness of these appliances is acknowledged and they can be very useful in the correction of sagittal arch discrepancies. This article will discuss the clinical use of functional appliances, the underlying evidence for their use and their limitations.

Practical environmental modifications for the inhalant allergy patient.

PubMed

Gage-White, L

1998-02-01

Environmental management of inhalant allergens is an important part of a comprehensive allergy management program and is the most controllable aspect by the patient. The safest and most effective way to eliminate an allergic reaction is to eliminate exposure to the antigen that provokes the response. The basic control principles for all inhalant allergens are to (1) remove the source of the allergen if possible, (2) remove accumulated allergen, and (3) prevent the return of the allergen. This article examines the published evidence for environmental control measures in terms of effectiveness, cost, and ease of implementation.

An Interdisciplinary Approach toward the Treatment of Behavior and Learning Problems in a Special Educational Facility for Emotionally and Socially Handicapped Children.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Comiskey, Vincent P.; And Others

Provided are some of the guidelines used in the Village School Behavior Modification Program for children with behavior problems in Bergen County, New Jersey. Included are definitions of the terms "emotionally disturbed" and "socially maladjusted", descriptions of some behavior modification techniques used, copies of forms and…

Surface Modified TiO2 Obscurants for Increased Safety and Performance

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-11-01

based obscurant devices in performance. 15. SUBJECT TERMS Obscurant, visible, IR , smoke, TiO2, aerosol, particle, surface modification...hexamethyldimethoxysilane IR Infrared wavelength LabRAM Lab scale Resonant Acoustic Mixer from Resodyn Corporation LPM Liters Per Minute M106 Currently fielded (Army...trinitrophloroglucinol UV-Vis Ultraviolet-visible wavelengths KEYWORDS Obscurant, visible, IR , smoke, TiO2, aerosol, particle, surface modification

The Use of Lifestyle and Behavioral Modification Approaches in Obesity Interventions for Black Women: A Literature Review

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Walker, Renee E.; Gordon, Melanie

2014-01-01

The alarming obesity prevalence in Black women is well documented yet poorly understood. Obesity interventions for Black women have failed to produce long-term reductions in weight. Recommendations to incorporate a lifestyle and behavioral modification approach have been made to address obesity in this population. The purpose of this article was…

Gap model development, validation, and application to succession of secondary subtropical dry forests of Puerto Rico

Treesearch

Jennifer A. Holm; H.H. Shugart; Skip J. Van Bloem; G.R. Larocque

2012-01-01

Because of human pressures, the need to understand and predict the long-term dynamics and development of subtropical dry forests is urgent. Through modifications to the ZELIG simulation model, including the development of species- and site-specific parameters and internal modifications, the capability to model and predict forest change within the 4500-ha Guanica State...

Intentional Weight Loss and Changes in Symptoms of Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

PubMed Central

Fabricatore, Anthony N.; Wadden, Thomas A.; Higginbotham, Allison J.; Faulconbridge, Lucy F.; Nguyen, Allison M.; Heymsfield, Steven B.; Faith, Myles S.

2011-01-01

Objective Obesity is related to increased risk of several health complications, including depression. Many studies have reported improvements in mood with weight loss, but results have been equivocal. The present meta-analysis examined changes in symptoms of depression that were reported in trials of weight loss interventions. Between-groups comparisons of different weight loss methods (e.g., lifestyle modification, diet alone, pharmacotherapy) were examined, as were within-group changes for each treatment type. Method MEDLINE was searched for articles published between 1950 and January 2009. Several obesity-related terms were intersected with terms related to depression. Results were filtered to return only studies of human subjects, published in English. Of 5971 articles, 394 were randomized controlled trials. Articles were excluded if they did not report mean changes in weight or symptoms of depression, included children or persons with psychiatric disorders (other than depression), or provided insufficient data for analysis. Thirty-one studies (n = 7937) were included. Two authors independently extracted a description of each study treatment, sample characteristics, assessment methods, and changes in weight and symptoms of depression. Treatments were categorized as: lifestyle modification, non-dieting, dietary counseling, diet-alone, exercise-alone, pharmacotherapy, placebo, or control interventions. Results Random effects models found that lifestyle modification was superior to control and non-dieting interventions for reducing symptoms of depression, and marginally better than dietary counseling and exercise-alone programs. Exercise-alone programs were superior to controls. No differences were found for comparisons of pharmacologic agents and placebos. Within-group analyses found significant reductions in symptoms of depression for nearly all active interventions. A meta-regression found no relationship between changes in weight and changes in symptoms of depression in lifestyle modification interventions. Conclusions On average, obese individuals in weight loss trials experienced reductions in symptoms of depression. Future studies should examine incidence and resolution of clinically significant depressive disorders with weight loss interventions. PMID:21343903

Epigenetic Effects of Cannabis Exposure.

PubMed

Szutorisz, Henrietta; Hurd, Yasmin L

2016-04-01

The past decade has witnessed a number of societal and political changes that have raised critical questions about the long-term impact of marijuana (Cannabis sativa) that are especially important given the prevalence of its abuse and that potential long-term effects still largely lack scientific data. Disturbances of the epigenome have generally been hypothesized as the molecular machinery underlying the persistent, often tissue-specific transcriptional and behavioral effects of cannabinoids that have been observed within one's lifetime and even into the subsequent generation. Here, we provide an overview of the current published scientific literature that has examined epigenetic effects of cannabinoids. Though mechanistic insights about the epigenome remain sparse, accumulating data in humans and animal models have begun to reveal aberrant epigenetic modifications in brain and the periphery linked to cannabis exposure. Expansion of such knowledge and causal molecular relationships could help provide novel targets for future therapeutic interventions. Copyright © 2016 Society of Biological Psychiatry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Cosmology of a holographic induced gravity model with curvature effects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bouhmadi-López, Mariam; Errahmani, Ahmed; Ouali, Taoufiq

2011-10-01

We present a holographic model of the Dvali-Gabadadze-Porrati scenario with a Gauss-Bonnet term in the bulk. We concentrate on the solution that generalizes the normal Dvali-Gabadadze-Porrati branch. It is well known that this branch cannot describe the late-time acceleration of the universe even with the inclusion of a Gauss-Bonnet term. Here, we show that this branch in the presence of a Gauss-Bonnet curvature effect and a holographic dark energy with the Hubble scale as the infrared cutoff can describe the late-time acceleration of the universe. It is worthwhile to stress that such an energy density component cannot do the same job on the normal Dvali-Gabadadze-Porrati branch (without Gauss-Bonnet modifications) nor in a standard four-dimensional relativistic model. The acceleration on the brane is also presented as being induced through an effective dark energy which corresponds to a balance between the holographic one and geometrical effects encoded through the Hubble parameter.

The use of relative incidence ratios in self-controlled case series studies: an overview.

PubMed

Hawken, Steven; Potter, Beth K; Little, Julian; Benchimol, Eric I; Mahmud, Salah; Ducharme, Robin; Wilson, Kumanan

2016-09-23

The self-controlled case series (SCCS) is a useful design for investigating associations between outcomes and transient exposures. The SCCS design controls for all fixed covariates, but effect modification can still occur. This can be evaluated by including interaction terms in the model which, when exponentiated, can be interpreted as a relative incidence ratio (RIR): the change in relative incidence (RI) for a unit change in an effect modifier. We conducted a scoping review to investigate the use of RIRs in published primary SCCS studies, and conducted a case-study in one of our own primary SCCS studies to illustrate the use of RIRs within an SCCS analysis to investigate subgroup effects in the context of comparing whole cell (wcp) and acellular (acp) pertussis vaccines. Using this case study, we also illustrated the potential utility of RIRs in addressing the healthy vaccinee effect (HVE) in vaccine safety surveillance studies. Our scoping review identified 122 primary studies reporting an SCCS analysis. Of these, 24 described the use of interaction terms to test for effect modification. 21 of 24 studies reported stratum specific RIs, 22 of 24 reported the p-value for interaction, and less than half (10 of 24) reported the estimate of the interaction term/RIR, the stratum specific RIs and interaction p-values. Our case-study demonstrated that there was a nearly two-fold greater RI of ER visits and admissions following wcp vaccination relative to acp vaccination (RIR = 1.82, 95 % CI 1.64-2.01), where RI estimates in each subgroup were clearly impacted by a strong healthy vaccinee effect. We demonstrated in our scoping review that calculating RIRs is not a widely utilized strategy. We showed that calculating RIRs across time periods is useful for the detection of relative changes in adverse event rates that might otherwise be missed due to the HVE. Many published studies of vaccine-associated adverse events could have missed/underestimated important safety signals masked by the HVE. With further development, our application of RIRs could be an important tool to address the HVE, particularly in the context of self-controlled study designs.

Hierarchical layered double hydroxides with Ag nanoparticle modification for ethanol sensing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qin, Yuxiang; Wang, Liping; Wang, Xiaofei

2018-07-01

Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) have recently been revealed to be promising in gas sensor applications due to their compositional flexibility and unique 2D-interlayer channel for gas diffusion and adsorption. This work demonstrates highly porous hierarchical LDHs containing Mg2+ and Al3+ (MgAl-LDHs) for ethanol sensing at room temperature. These MgAl-LDHs, with unique flower-like hierarchical structure and mesoporous interlayer, were synthesized hydrothermally using sodium dodecyl sulfate as soft template as well as intercalating agent. Further modification by discrete Ag nanoparticles (NPs) was achieved via an environmentally friendly glucose-reduction method to improve the gas-sensing response of the LDH-based sensor. It is found that the hierarchical MgAl-LDHs show potential in sensing ethanol gas with rapid dynamic characteristics at room temperature; their response magnitude towards ethanol can be enhanced significantly by Ag NP modification. The gas-response value of the Ag-modified MgAl-LDH sensor is about twice that of pristine MgAl-LDH sensors, towards 5–200 ppm ethanol at room temperature. Meanwhile, rapid response-recovery characteristics are achieved, with response and recovery times shorter than 10 and 50 s, respectively. The satisfactory sensing performance and remarkable response enhancement by Ag NP modification are demonstrated in terms of the unique microstructure of the hierarchical MgAl-LDHs and a constructed conductive effect model of Ag functionalized LDHs.

Clinical assessment of dietary interventions and lifestyle modifications in Madhumeha (type- 2 Diabetes Mellitus)

PubMed Central

Gupta, Archana; Agarwal, Neeraj Kumar; Byadgi, Parameswarappa S.

2014-01-01

Background: India leads the world with maximum number of diabetes patients being termed as the “diabetes capital of the world.” Certain risk factors including unsatisfactory diet, overweight, and a sedentary lifestyle are potentially reversible. Acharayas have widely described the role of diet and activities to control Madhumeha (type 2 diabetes mellitus [T2DM]) along with medications. Habitual consumption of roasted or dry Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) flour, Mudga (Phaseolus aureus Roxb.) and Amalaki (Emblica officinalis Gaertn.) prevents the manifestation of Prameha. Aim: To assess the clinical effects of dietary interventions and life style modifications in Madhumeha patients. Materials and Methods: Present study was carried out on 56 patients of Madhumeha from S.S. Hospital, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi. Dietary interventions and life style modifications schedule was prepared based on Ayurvedic principles and patients were advised to follow this regimen. Three consecutive follow-ups were done for 3 months at the interval of one month each. Results: Significant improvement was observed in clinical signs and symptoms along with plasma glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in Madhumeha patients after these interventions (P < 0.001). Conclusion: Dietary interventions and life style modifications are two important tools by which adequate glycemic control can be obtained, especially in newly diagnosed T2DM patients and in patients who are on antidiabetic medication, but not properly controlled. PMID:26195901

Hierarchical layered double hydroxides with Ag nanoparticle modification for ethanol sensing.

PubMed

Qin, Yuxiang; Wang, Liping; Wang, Xiaofei

2018-07-06

Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) have recently been revealed to be promising in gas sensor applications due to their compositional flexibility and unique 2D-interlayer channel for gas diffusion and adsorption. This work demonstrates highly porous hierarchical LDHs containing Mg 2+ and Al 3+ (MgAl-LDHs) for ethanol sensing at room temperature. These MgAl-LDHs, with unique flower-like hierarchical structure and mesoporous interlayer, were synthesized hydrothermally using sodium dodecyl sulfate as soft template as well as intercalating agent. Further modification by discrete Ag nanoparticles (NPs) was achieved via an environmentally friendly glucose-reduction method to improve the gas-sensing response of the LDH-based sensor. It is found that the hierarchical MgAl-LDHs show potential in sensing ethanol gas with rapid dynamic characteristics at room temperature; their response magnitude towards ethanol can be enhanced significantly by Ag NP modification. The gas-response value of the Ag-modified MgAl-LDH sensor is about twice that of pristine MgAl-LDH sensors, towards 5-200 ppm ethanol at room temperature. Meanwhile, rapid response-recovery characteristics are achieved, with response and recovery times shorter than 10 and 50 s, respectively. The satisfactory sensing performance and remarkable response enhancement by Ag NP modification are demonstrated in terms of the unique microstructure of the hierarchical MgAl-LDHs and a constructed conductive effect model of Ag functionalized LDHs.

Effects of perinatal asphyxia on rat striatal cytoskeleton.

PubMed

Saraceno, G E; Ayala, M V; Badorrey, M S; Holubiec, M; Romero, J I; Galeano, P; Barreto, G; Giraldez-Alvárez, L D; Kölliker-Fres, R; Coirini, H; Capani, F

2012-01-01

Perinatal asphyxia (PA) is a medical condition associated with a high short-term morbimortality and different long-term neurological diseases. In previous works, we have shown that neuronal and synaptic changes in rat striatum lead to ubi-protein accumulation in post-synaptic density (PSD) after six months of sub-severe PA. However, very little is known about the synaptic and related structural modifications induced by PA in young rats. In the present work, we studied neuronal cytoskeleton modifications in striatum induced by subsevere PA in 30-day-old rats. We observed a significant decrease in the number of neurons, in particular calbindin immunoreactive neurons after PA. In addition, it was also observed that actin cytoskeleton was highly modified in the PSD as well as an increment of F-actin staining by Phalloidin-alexa(488) in the striatum of PA rats. Using correlative fluorescence-electron microscopy photooxidation, we confirmed and extended confocal observations. F-actin staining augmentation was mostly related with an increment in the number of mushroom-shaped spines. Consistent with microscopic data, Western blot analysis revealed a β-actin increment in PSD in PA rats. On the other hand, MAP-2 immunostaining was decreased after PA, being NF-200 expression unmodified. Although neuronal death was observed, signs of generalized neurodegeneration were absent. Taken together these results showed early post-synaptic F-actin cytoskeleton changes induced by PA with slightly modifications in the other components of the neuronal cytoskeleton, suggesting that F-actin accumulation in the dendritic spines could be involved in the neuronal loss induced by PA. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The synergistic effect of TiO2 nanoporous modification and platelet-rich plasma treatment on titanium-implant stability in ovariectomized rats.

PubMed

Jiang, Nan; Du, Pinggong; Qu, Weidong; Li, Lin; Liu, Zhonghao; Zhu, Songsong

For several decades, titanium and its alloys have been commonly utilized for endosseous implantable materials, because of their good mechanical properties, chemical resistance, and biocompatibility. But associated low bone mass, wear and loss characteristics, and high coefficients of friction have limited their long-term stable performance, especially in certain abnormal bone-metabolism conditions, such as postmenopausal osteoporosis. In this study, we investigated the effects of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment and TiO 2 nanoporous modification on the stability of titanium implants in osteoporotic bone. After surface morphology, topographical structure, and chemical changes of implant surface had been detected by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy, contact-angle measurement, and X-ray diffraction, we firstly assessed in vivo the effect of PRP treatment on osseointegration of TiO 2 -modified implants in ovariectomized rats by microcomputed tomography examinations, histology, biomechanical testing, and SEM observation. Meanwhile, the potential molecular mechanism involved in peri-implant osseous enhancement was also determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. The results showed that this TiO 2 -modified surface was able to lead to improve bone implant contact, while PRP treatment was able to increase the implant surrounding bone mass. The synergistic effect of both was able to enhance the terminal force of implants drastically in biomechanical testing. Compared with surface modification, PRP treatment promoted earlier osteogenesis with increased expression of the RUNX2 and COL1 genes and suppressed osteoclastogenesis with increased expression of OPG and decreased levels of RANKL. These promising results show that PRP treatment combined with a TiO 2 -nanomodified surface can improve titanium-implant biomechanical stability in ovariectomized rats, suggesting a beneficial effect to support the success of implants in osteoporotic bone.

The synergistic effect of TiO2 nanoporous modification and platelet-rich plasma treatment on titanium-implant stability in ovariectomized rats

PubMed Central

Jiang, Nan; Du, Pinggong; Qu, Weidong; Li, Lin; Liu, Zhonghao; Zhu, Songsong

2016-01-01

For several decades, titanium and its alloys have been commonly utilized for endosseous implantable materials, because of their good mechanical properties, chemical resistance, and biocompatibility. But associated low bone mass, wear and loss characteristics, and high coefficients of friction have limited their long-term stable performance, especially in certain abnormal bone-metabolism conditions, such as postmenopausal osteoporosis. In this study, we investigated the effects of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment and TiO2 nanoporous modification on the stability of titanium implants in osteoporotic bone. After surface morphology, topographical structure, and chemical changes of implant surface had been detected by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy, contact-angle measurement, and X-ray diffraction, we firstly assessed in vivo the effect of PRP treatment on osseointegration of TiO2-modified implants in ovariectomized rats by microcomputed tomography examinations, histology, biomechanical testing, and SEM observation. Meanwhile, the potential molecular mechanism involved in peri-implant osseous enhancement was also determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. The results showed that this TiO2-modified surface was able to lead to improve bone implant contact, while PRP treatment was able to increase the implant surrounding bone mass. The synergistic effect of both was able to enhance the terminal force of implants drastically in biomechanical testing. Compared with surface modification, PRP treatment promoted earlier osteogenesis with increased expression of the RUNX2 and COL1 genes and suppressed osteoclastogenesis with increased expression of OPG and decreased levels of RANKL. These promising results show that PRP treatment combined with a TiO2-nanomodified surface can improve titanium-implant biomechanical stability in ovariectomized rats, suggesting a beneficial effect to support the success of implants in osteoporotic bone. PMID:27695328

Imagining a brighter future: the effect of positive imagery training on mood, prospective mental imagery and emotional bias in older adults.

PubMed

Murphy, Susannah E; Clare O'Donoghue, M; Drazich, Erin H S; Blackwell, Simon E; Christina Nobre, Anna; Holmes, Emily A

2015-11-30

Positive affect and optimism play an important role in healthy ageing and are associated with improved physical and cognitive health outcomes. This study investigated whether it is possible to boost positive affect and associated positive biases in this age group using cognitive training. The effect of computerised imagery-based cognitive bias modification on positive affect, vividness of positive prospective imagery and interpretation biases in older adults was measured. 77 older adults received 4 weeks (12 sessions) of imagery cognitive bias modification or a control condition. They were assessed at baseline, post-training and at a one-month follow-up. Both groups reported decreased negative affect and trait anxiety, and increased optimism across the three assessments. Imagery cognitive bias modification significantly increased the vividness of positive prospective imagery post-training, compared with the control training. Contrary to our hypothesis, there was no difference between the training groups in negative interpretation bias. This is a useful demonstration that it is possible to successfully engage older adults in computer-based cognitive training and to enhance the vividness of positive imagery about the future in this group. Future studies are needed to assess the longer-term consequences of such training and the impact on affect and wellbeing in more vulnerable groups. Copyright © 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Finite mixture modeling approach for developing crash modification factors in highway safety analysis.

PubMed

Park, Byung-Jung; Lord, Dominique; Wu, Lingtao

2016-10-28

This study aimed to investigate the relative performance of two models (negative binomial (NB) model and two-component finite mixture of negative binomial models (FMNB-2)) in terms of developing crash modification factors (CMFs). Crash data on rural multilane divided highways in California and Texas were modeled with the two models, and crash modification functions (CMFunctions) were derived. The resultant CMFunction estimated from the FMNB-2 model showed several good properties over that from the NB model. First, the safety effect of a covariate was better reflected by the CMFunction developed using the FMNB-2 model, since the model takes into account the differential responsiveness of crash frequency to the covariate. Second, the CMFunction derived from the FMNB-2 model is able to capture nonlinear relationships between covariate and safety. Finally, following the same concept as those for NB models, the combined CMFs of multiple treatments were estimated using the FMNB-2 model. The results indicated that they are not the simple multiplicative of single ones (i.e., their safety effects are not independent under FMNB-2 models). Adjustment Factors (AFs) were then developed. It is revealed that current Highway Safety Manual's method could over- or under-estimate the combined CMFs under particular combination of covariates. Safety analysts are encouraged to consider using the FMNB-2 models for developing CMFs and AFs. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Treatment Options for Severe Obesity in the Pediatric Population: Current Limitations and Future Opportunities.

PubMed

Ryder, Justin R; Fox, Claudia K; Kelly, Aaron S

2018-06-01

Severe obesity is the only obesity classification increasing in prevalence among children and adolescents. Treatment options that produce meaningful and sustained weight loss and comorbidity resolution are urgently needed. The purpose of this review is to provide a brief overview of the current treatment options for pediatric severe obesity and offer suggestions regarding future opportunities for accelerating the development and evaluation of innovative treatment strategies. At present, there are three treatment options for youth with severe obesity: lifestyle modification therapy, pharmacotherapy, and bariatric surgery. Lifestyle modification therapy can be useful for improving many chronic disease risk factors and comorbid conditions but often fails to achieve clinically meaningful and sustainable weight loss. Pharmacotherapy holds promise as an effective adjunctive treatment but remains in the primordial stages of development in the pediatric population. Bariatric surgery provides robust weight loss and risk factor/comorbidity improvements but is accompanied by higher risks and lower uptake compared to lifestyle modification therapy and pharmacotherapy. New areas worth pursuing include combination pharmacotherapy, device therapy, identification of predictors of response aimed at precision treatment, and interventions in the postbariatric surgical setting to improve long-term outcomes. Treating pediatric severe obesity effectively and safely is extremely challenging. Some progress has been made, but substantially more effort and innovation are needed in the future to combat this serious and ongoing medical and public health issue. © 2018 The Obesity Society.

Corrigendum to "Crater functions for compound materials: A route to parameter estimation in coupled-PDE models of ion bombardment" [Nucl. Instr. Meth. Phys. Res. B 318B (2014) 245-252

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Norris, Scott A.; Samela, Juha; Vestberg, Matias; Nordlund, Kai; Aziz, Michael J.

2015-04-01

Because Eq. (1) is independent of the details of the crater function Δh , updated formulae for { A, C,A‧,C‧ } that account for the curvature dependence are obtained simply by inserting Harrison and Bradley's expressions (2) into Eq. (1). As those authors show, at normal incidence the added terms are expected to have positive values, increasing estimates of C (which is a sum of SX,YZ, type terms), while producing a less noticable effect on the value of C‧ (which is a difference of SX,YZ, type terms). These modifications therefore do not alter the primary physical conclusions of our study, which are that for the GaSb system both C and (A‧ C -C‧ A) appear to be positive.

Polarimetry Studies of Ionospheric Modification by Rocket boosters.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-05-27

Chemical Releases Polarimetry Studies Rocket Booster Effects Faraday Rotation 20. ABSTRACT (Coniros an ,Oer* e side It necessary and Identify by block...1112 InL I X (I _ Tl : YI) Rijl I ± ,2 for the radiowave whose electric field is given by E - E ,(z) exp ( w) + c.c. - i + Ej (2) 3 REILLY, |tARNISH, AND...has a simple phasor represen- ta "n through the definition F - E , +j E ,. (3) The linearly polarized radiowave is represented in terms of the

Low-molecular-weight heparins: differential characterization/physical characterization.

PubMed

Guerrini, Marco; Bisio, Antonella

2012-01-01

Low-molecular-weight heparins (LMWHs), derived from unfractionated heparin (UFH) through different depolymerization processes, have advantages with respect to the parent heparin in terms of pharmacokinetics, convenience of administration, and reduced side effects. Each LMWH can be considered as an independent drug with its own activity profile, placing significance on their biophysical characterization, which will also enable a better understanding of their structure-function relationship. Several chemical and physical methods, some involving sample modification, are now available and are reviewed.

Influence of parameter changes to stability behavior of rotors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fritzen, C. P.; Nordmann, R.

1982-01-01

The occurrence of unstable vibrations in rotating machinery requires corrective measures for improvement of the stability behavior. A simple approximate method is represented to find out the influence of parameter changes to the stability behavior. The method is based on an expansion of the eigenvalues in terms of system parameters. Influence coefficients show the effect of structural modifications. The method first of all was applied to simple nonconservative rotor models. It was approved for an unsymmetric rotor of a test rig.

Modification of cytogenetic and physiological effects of space flight factors by biologically active compounds

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Aliyev, A. A.; Mekhti-Zade, E. R.; Mashinskiy, A. L.; Alekperov, U. K.

1986-01-01

Physiological and cytogenetic changes in the Welsh onion plants induced by a short (82 days) and long term (522 days) space flight are expressed in decrease of seed germination, inhibition of stem growth, depression of cell division in root meristem, and increase in the number of structural chromosome rearrangements. The treatment of such plants with solutions of a-tocopherol, auxin, and kinetin decreased the level of chromosome aberrations to the control one and normalized cell divisions and growth partly or completely.

Cognitive bias modification and CBT as early interventions for adolescent social and test anxiety: Two-year follow-up of a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

de Hullu, Eva; Sportel, B Esther; Nauta, Maaike H; de Jong, Peter J

2017-06-01

This two-year follow-up study evaluated the long-term outcomes of two early interventions that aimed at reducing social and test anxiety in young adolescents at risk for developing social anxiety disorder. In this RCT, moderately socially anxious adolescents (N=240, mean age 13.6 years) were randomly assigned to a 10-week internet-based multifaceted cognitive bias modification training (CBM), a 10-week school-based cognitive behavioral group training (CBT), or a no-intervention control condition. Using multiple imputation, this study examined the changes in primary and secondary outcome measures from pretest to follow-up in a repeated measures design. Primary outcome: Self-reported social and test anxiety generally decreased from pre-test to two-year follow-up, regardless of treatment condition. The percentage of adolescents who developed a social anxiety disorder was very low (6%) and similar across conditions. Secondary outcome: There were beneficial changes in self-esteem, self-reported prosocial behaviors, and fear of negative evaluation, but none of these were related to treatment condition. Automatic social-threat associations did not significantly change. The CBM intervention was effective in changing interpretative bias as indexed by the Recognition Task but this long-term effect did not transfer to the Adolescent Interpretation and Belief Questionnaire. There was a substantial (50%) though seemingly non-selective attrition at follow-up. This RCT does not support the longer-term efficacy of school-based CBT or CBM as an early intervention for social and test anxiety. Rather, it emphasizes the positive 'natural' course of highly socially anxious adolescents over two years. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Seven Transmembrane Receptors as Shapeshifting Proteins: The Impact of Allosteric Modulation and Functional Selectivity on New Drug Discovery

PubMed Central

Miller, Laurence J.

2010-01-01

It is useful to consider seven transmembrane receptors (7TMRs) as disordered proteins able to allosterically respond to a number of binding partners. Considering 7TMRs as allosteric systems, affinity and efficacy can be thought of in terms of energy flow between a modulator, conduit (the receptor protein), and a number of guests. These guests can be other molecules, receptors, membrane-bound proteins, or signaling proteins in the cytosol. These vectorial flows of energy can yield standard canonical guest allostery (allosteric modification of drug effect), effects along the plane of the cell membrane (receptor oligomerization), or effects directed into the cytosol (differential signaling as functional selectivity). This review discusses these apparently diverse pharmacological effects in terms of molecular dynamics and protein ensemble theory, which tends to unify 7TMR behavior toward cells. Special consideration will be given to functional selectivity (biased agonism and biased antagonism) in terms of mechanism of action and potential therapeutic application. The explosion of technology that has enabled observation of diverse 7TMR behavior has also shown how drugs can have multiple (pluridimensional) efficacies and how this can cause paradoxical drug classification and nomenclatures. PMID:20392808

Effects of tooth profile modification on dynamic responses of a high speed gear-rotor-bearing system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Zehua; Tang, Jinyuan; Zhong, Jue; Chen, Siyu; Yan, Haiyan

2016-08-01

A finite element node dynamic model of a high speed gear-rotor-bearing system considering the time-varying mesh stiffness, backlash, gyroscopic effect and transmission error excitation is developed. Different tooth profile modifications are introduced into the gear pair and corresponding time-varying mesh stiffness curves are obtained. Effects of the tooth profile modification on mesh stiffness are analyzed, and the natural frequencies and mode shapes of the gear-rotor-bearing transmission system are given. The dynamic responses with respect to a wide input speed region including dynamic factor, vibration amplitude near the bearing and dynamic transmission error are obtained by introducing the time-varying mesh stiffness in different tooth profile modification cases into the gear-rotor-bearing dynamic system. Effects of the tooth profile modification on the dynamic responses are studied in detail. The numerical simulation results show that both the short profile modification and the long profile modification can affect the mutation of the mesh stiffness when the number of engaging tooth pairs changes. A short profile modification with an appropriate modification amount can improve the dynamic property of the system in certain work condition.

Safety of antiobesity drugs

PubMed Central

Cheung, Tommy Tsang; Samaranayake, Nithushi Rajitha

2013-01-01

Obesity is a major health problem worldwide. Although diet and physical activity are crucial in the management of obesity, the long-term success rate is low. Therefore antiobesity drugs are of great interest, especially when lifestyle modification has failed. As obesity is not an immediate life-threatening disease, these drugs are required to be safe. Antiobesity drugs that have been developed so far have limited efficacies and considerable adverse effects affecting tolerability and safety. Therefore, most antiobesity drugs have been withdrawn. Fenfluramine and dexfenfluramine were withdrawn because of the potential damage to heart valves. Sibutramine was associated with an increase in major adverse cardiovascular events in the Sibutramine Cardiovascular Outcomes (SCOUT) trial and it was withdrawn from the market in 2010. Rimonabant was withdrawn because of significant psychiatric adverse effects. Orlistat was approved in Europe and the United States for long-term treatment of obesity, but many patients cannot tolerate its gastrointestinal side effects. Phentermine and diethylpropion can only be used for less than 12 weeks because the long-term safety of these drugs is unknown. Ephedrine and caffeine are natural substances but the effects on weight reduction are modest. As a result there is a huge unmet need for effective and safe antiobesity drugs. Recently lorcaserin and topiramate plus phentermine have been approved for the treatment of obesity but long-term safety data are lacking. PMID:25114779

Long-term safety and efficacy of TAK-085 in Japanese subjects with hypertriglyceridemia undergoing lifestyle modification: the omega-3 fatty acids randomized long-term (ORL) study.

PubMed

Tatsuno, Ichiro; Saito, Yasushi; Kudou, Kentarou; Ootake, Jun

2013-01-01

TAK-085 is an omega-3 preparation that contains eicosapentaenoic acid ethyl-ester (EPA-E) and docosahexaenoic acid-ethyl ester used in the management of hypertriglyceridemia. The aim of the study was to evaluate the long-term safety (adverse events [AEs], laboratory parameters, vital signs, weight, and electrocardiograms) and effects on lipid profiles, especially triglyceride levels, of TAK-085 in Japanese patients with hypertriglyceridemia (triglyceride levels ≥150 mg/dL and <750 mg/dL). In this multicenter, open-label, randomized study, adults with hypertriglyceridemia undergoing lifestyle modification received TAK-085 2 g (2 g once daily; n = 165) or 4 g (2 g twice daily; n = 171), or EPA-E 1.8 g (0.6 g three times daily; n = 167) for 52 weeks. Patients were stratified for co-administration of a statin. TAK-085 was well tolerated throughout the 52-week study. Overall, no substantial differences were found in the tolerability of TAK-085 2 g, TAK-085 4 g, and EPA-E 1.8 g with incidence rates for AEs of 83.6%, 86.0%, and 89.2%, respectively. Most AEs were mild or moderate in severity. Triglyceride levels decreased from baseline in all groups by week 4, and the decreases were maintained throughout the study. At week 52 the reduction in triglycerides with TAK-085 2 g (-13.9%) was similar to that with EPA-E 1.8 g (-12.1%), whereas the reduction seen with TAK-085 4 g (-25.5%) was greater than that with EPA-E 1.8 g, as assessed by point estimates and 95% confidence intervals. TAK-085 was safe and well tolerated for up to 52 weeks of treatment in Japanese patients with hypertriglyceridemia undergoing lifestyle modification. Reductions in triglyceride levels achieved after 4 weeks were maintained at 52 weeks. Copyright © 2013 National Lipid Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Prediction of the niche effect for single flat panels with or without attached sound absorbing materials.

PubMed

Sgard, Franck; Atalla, Noureddine; Nélisse, Hugues

2015-01-01

The sound transmission loss (STL) of a test sample measured in sound transmission facilities is affected by the opening in which it is located. This is called the niche effect. This paper uses a modal approach to study the STL of a rectangular plate with or without an attached porous material located inside a box-shaped niche. The porous material is modeled as a limp equivalent fluid. The proposed model is validated by comparison with finite element/boundary element computations. Using a condensation of the pressure fields in the niche, the niche effect is interpreted in terms of a modification of the modal blocked pressure fields acting on the panel induced by the front cavity and by a modification of the radiation efficiency of the panel modes due to the presence of the back cavity. The modal approach is then used to investigate the impact of (1) the presence of a porous material attached to the panel on the niche effect and (2) the niche effect on the assessment of the porous material insertion loss. A simplified model for the porous material based on a transfer matrix approach is also proposed to predict the STL of the system and its validity is discussed.

Current opinion in Alzheimer's disease therapy by nanotechnology-based approaches.

PubMed

Ansari, Shakeel Ahmed; Satar, Rukhsana; Perveen, Asma; Ashraf, Ghulam Md

2017-03-01

Nanotechnology typically deals with the measuring and modeling of matter at nanometer scale by incorporating the fields of engineering and technology. The most prominent feature of these engineered materials involves their manipulation/modification for imparting new functional properties. The current review covers the most recent findings of Alzheimer's disease (AD) therapeutics based on nanoscience and technology. Current studies involve the application of nanotechnology in developing novel diagnostic and therapeutic tools for neurological disorders. Nanotechnology-based approaches can be exploited for limiting/reversing these diseases for promoting functional regeneration of damaged neurons. These strategies offer neuroprotection by facilitating the delivery of drugs and small molecules more effectively across the blood-brain barrier. Nanotechnology based approaches show promise in improving AD therapeutics. Further replication work on synthesis and surface modification of nanoparticles, longer-term clinical trials, and attempts to increase their impact in treating AD are required.

Surface functionalization of polyamide fiber via dopamine polymerization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuang, Xiao-Hui; Guan, Jin-Ping; Tang, Ren-Cheng; Chen, Guo-Qiang

2017-09-01

The oxidative polymerization of dopamine for the functional surface modification of textile fibers has drawn great attention. In this work, the functionalization of polyamide fiber via dopamine polymerization was studied with the aim of the fabrication of hydrophilic and antistatic surface. The conditions of dopamine application were first discussed in the absence of specific oxidants in terms of the apparent color depth of polyamide fiber. Dopamine concentration, pH and time were found to exert great impact on color depth. The highest color depth was achieved at pH 8.5. In the process of modification, polydopamine was deposited onto the surface of polyamide fiber. The modified polyamide fiber displayed a yellowish brown color with excellent wash and light color fastness, and exhibited good hydrophilic, UV protection and antistatic effects. A disadvantage of the present approach was the slow rate of dopamine polymerization and functionalization.

Acceptance of genetically modified foods: the relation between technology and evaluation.

PubMed

Tenbült, Petra; De Vries, Nanne K; van Breukelen, Gerard; Dreezens, Ellen; Martijn, Carolien

2008-07-01

This study investigates why consumers accept different genetically modified food products to different extents. The study shows that whether food products are genetically modified or not and whether they are processed or not are the two important features that affect the acceptance of food products and their evaluation (in terms of perceived healthiness, naturalness, necessity and tastiness). The extent to which these evaluation attributes and acceptance of a product are affected by genetic modification or processing depends on whether the product is negatively affected by the other technology: Any technological change to a 'natural' product (when nonprocessed products are genetically modified or when non-genetically modified products are processed) affect evaluation and acceptance stronger than a change to an technologically adapted product (when processed products are also genetically modified or vice versa). Furthermore, evaluation attributes appear to mediate the effects of genetic modification and processing on acceptance.

Reminder duration determines threat memory modification in humans.

PubMed

Hu, Jingchu; Wang, Wenqing; Homan, Philipp; Wang, Penggui; Zheng, Xifu; Schiller, Daniela

2018-06-11

Memory reminders can return a memory into an unstable state such that it will decay unless actively restabilized into long-term memory through reconsolidation. Exposure to a memory reminder, however, does not always lead to destabilization. The 'trace dominance' principle posits that the extent of exposure to memory reminders governs memory susceptibility to disruption. Here, we provide a first systematic investigation of reminder duration effects on threat memory modification in humans. Reminder duration was parametrically varied across 155 participants in a three-day protocol. We found that short reminders (1 s and 4 s) made the memory prone to interference from post-retrieval extinction, suggesting that the memory had been updated. In contrast, no reminder or long reminders (30 s and 3 min) made the memory resistant to such interference, and robustly return. Reminder duration therefore influences memory stability and may be a critical determinant of therapeutic efficacy.

Nutraceuticals, aging, and cognitive dysfunction.

PubMed

Head, Elizabeth; Zicker, Steven C

2004-01-01

Decline in cognitive function that accompanies aging in dogs might have a biological basis, and many of the disorders associated with aging in canines might be preventable through dietary modifications that incorporate specific nutraceuticals. Based on previous research and the results of laboratory and clinical studies, antioxidants might be one class of nutraceutical that benefits aged dogs. Brains of aged dogs accumulate oxidative damage to proteins and lipids, which can lead to dysfunction of neuronal cells. The production of free radicals and lack of increase in compensatory antioxidant enzymes might lead to detrimental modifications to important macromolecules within neurons. Reducing oxidative damage through food ingredients rich in a broad spectrum of antioxidants significantly improves, or slows the decline of, learning and memory in aged dogs; however, determining which compounds, combinations, dosage ranges, when to initiate intervention, and long-term effects constitute critical gaps in knowledge about this subject.

Research pressure instrumentation for NASA Space Shuttle main engine, modification no. 5

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Anderson, P. J.; Nussbaum, P.; Gustafson, G.

1984-01-01

The purpose of Modification No. 5 of this contract is to expand the scope of work (Task C) of this research study effort to develop pressure instrumentation for the SSME. The objective of this contract (Task C) is to direct Honeywell's Solid State Electronics Division's (SSED) extensive experience and expertise in solid state sensor technology to develop prototype pressure transducers which are targeted to meet the SSME performance design goals and to fabricate, test and deliver a total of 10 prototype units. SSED's basic approach is to effectively utilize the many advantages of silicon piezoresistive strain sensing technology to achieve the objectives of advanced state-of-the-art pressure sensors in terms of reliability, accuracy and ease of manufacture. More specifically, integration of multiple functions on a single chip is the key attribute of this technology which will be exploited during this research study.

Interplay between social experiences and the genome: epigenetic consequences for behavior.

PubMed

Champagne, Frances A

2012-01-01

Social experiences can have a persistent effect on biological processes leading to phenotypic diversity. Variation in gene regulation has emerged as a mechanism through which the interplay between DNA and environments leads to the biological encoding of these experiences. Epigenetic modifications-molecular pathways through which transcription is altered without altering the underlying DNA sequence-play a critical role in the normal process of development and are being increasingly explored as a mechanism linking environmental experiences to long-term biobehavioral outcomes. In this review, evidence implicating epigenetic factors, such as DNA methylation and histone modifications, in the link between social experiences occurring during the postnatal period and in adulthood and altered neuroendocrine and behavioral outcomes will be highlighted. In addition, the role of epigenetic mechanisms in shaping variation in social behavior and the implications of epigenetics for our understanding of the transmission of traits across generations will be discussed. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Comment on “Breakdown of the expansion of finite-size corrections to the hydrogen Lamb shift in moments of charge distribution”

DOE PAGES

Arrington, J.

2016-02-23

In a recent study, Hagelstein and Pascalutsa [F. Hagelstein and V. Pascalutsa, Phys. Rev. A 91, 040502 (2015)] examine the error associated with an expansion of proton structure corrections to the Lamb shift in terms of moments of the charge distribution. They propose a small modification to a conventional parametrization of the proton's charge form factor and show that this can resolve the proton radius puzzle. However, while the size of the bump they add to the form factor is small, it is large compared to the total proton structure effects in the initial parametrization, yielding a final form factormore » that is unphysical. Reducing their modification to the point where the resulting form factor is physical does not allow for a resolution of the radius puzzle.« less

Advanced Maillard reaction end products are associated with Alzheimer disease pathology.

PubMed Central

Smith, M A; Taneda, S; Richey, P L; Miyata, S; Yan, S D; Stern, D; Sayre, L M; Monnier, V M; Perry, G

1994-01-01

During aging long-lived proteins accumulate specific post-translational modifications. One family of modifications, termed Maillard reaction products, are initiated by the condensation between amino groups of proteins and reducing sugars. Protein modification by the Maillard reaction is associated with crosslink formation, decreased protein solubility, and increased protease resistance. Here, we present evidence that the characteristic pathological structures associated with Alzheimer disease contain modifications typical of advanced Maillard reaction end products. Specifically, antibodies against two Maillard end products, pyrraline and pentosidine, immunocytochemically label neurofibrillary tangles and senile plaques in brain tissue from patients with Alzheimer disease. In contrast, little or no staining is observed in apparently healthy neurons of the same brain. The Maillard-reaction-related modifications described herein could account for the biochemical and insolubility properties of the lesions of Alzheimer disease through the formation of protein crosslinks. Images PMID:8202552

Germline Modification and Engineering in Avian Species

PubMed Central

Lee, Hong Jo; Lee, Hyung Chul; Han, Jae Yong

2015-01-01

Production of genome-edited animals using germline-competent cells and genetic modification tools has provided opportunities for investigation of biological mechanisms in various organisms. The recently reported programmed genome editing technology that can induce gene modification at a target locus in an efficient and precise manner facilitates establishment of animal models. In this regard, the demand for genome-edited avian species, which are some of the most suitable model animals due to their unique embryonic development, has also increased. Furthermore, germline chimera production through long-term culture of chicken primordial germ cells (PGCs) has facilitated research on production of genome-edited chickens. Thus, use of avian germline modification is promising for development of novel avian models for research of disease control and various biological mechanisms. Here, we discuss recent progress in genome modification technology in avian species and its applications and future strategies. PMID:26333275

A sensitive mass spectrometric method for hypothesis-driven detection of peptide post-translational modifications: multiple reaction monitoring-initiated detection and sequencing (MIDAS).

PubMed

Unwin, Richard D; Griffiths, John R; Whetton, Anthony D

2009-01-01

The application of a targeted mass spectrometric workflow to the sensitive identification of post-translational modifications is described. This protocol employs multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) to search for all putative peptides specifically modified in a target protein. Positive MRMs trigger an MS/MS experiment to confirm the nature and site of the modification. This approach, termed MIDAS (MRM-initiated detection and sequencing), is more sensitive than approaches using neutral loss scanning or precursor ion scanning methodologies, due to a more efficient use of duty cycle along with a decreased background signal associated with MRM. We describe the use of MIDAS for the identification of phosphorylation, with a typical experiment taking just a couple of hours from obtaining a peptide sample. With minor modifications, the MIDAS method can be applied to other protein modifications or unmodified peptides can be used as a MIDAS target.

Molecular Correlates of Cortical Network Modulation by Long-Term Sensory Experience in the Adult Rat Barrel Cortex

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Vallès, Astrid; Granic, Ivica; De Weerd, Peter; Martens, Gerard J. M.

2014-01-01

Modulation of cortical network connectivity is crucial for an adaptive response to experience. In the rat barrel cortex, long-term sensory stimulation induces cortical network modifications and neuronal response changes of which the molecular basis is unknown. Here, we show that long-term somatosensory stimulation by enriched environment…

Effect of deformation on the structural state of piracetam

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kanunnikova, O. M.; Mikhailova, S. S.; Karban', O. V.; Mukhgalin, V. V.; Aksenova, V. V.; Sen'kovskii, B. V.; Pechina, E. A.; Lad'yanov, V. I.

2016-04-01

The effect of various deformation actions on the structure-phase transformations in piracetam of modifications I and II with a sodium acetate addition is studied. Mechanical activation and pressing are shown to cause the polymorphic transformation of modification I into modification II, and modification III forms predominantly during severe plastic deformation by torsion. The structural difference between the piracetam molecules of modifications I and II is found to be retained in aqueous solutions.

Low-frequency stimulation cancels the high-frequency-induced long-lasting effects in the rat medial vestibular nuclei.

PubMed

Grassi, S; Pettorossi, V E; Zampolini, M

1996-05-15

In rat brainstem slices, we investigated the effects of low-frequency stimulation (LFS) of the primary vestibular afferents on the amplitude of the field potentials evoked in the medial vestibular nuclei (MVN). LFS induced long-term effects, the sign of which depended on whether the vestibular neurons were previously conditioned by HFS. In unconditioned slices, LFS evoked modifications of the responses that were similar to those observed after HFS but had a smaller extension. In fact, LFS caused long-lasting potentiation of the N1 wave in the MVN ventral portion (Vp) and long-lasting depression of the N2 wave in the MVN dorsal portion (Dp), whereas it provoked small and variable effects on the N1 wave. By contrast, when the synaptic transmission was already conditioned, LFS influenced the synaptic responses oppositely, reducing or annulling the HFS long-term effects. This phenomenon was specifically induced by LFS, because HFS was not able to cause it. The involvement of NMDA receptors in mediating the LFS long-term effects was supported by the fact that AP-5 prevented their induction. In addition, the annulment of HFS long-term effects by LFS was also demonstrated by the shift in the latency of the evoked unitary potentials after LFS. In conclusion, we suggest that the reduction of the previously induced conditioning could represent a cancellation mechanism, useful to quickly adapt the vestibular system to continuous different needs and to avoid saturation.

How effective is albedo modification (solar radiation management geoengineering) in preventing sea-level rise from the Greenland Ice Sheet?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Applegate, Patrick J.; Keller, Klaus

2015-08-01

Albedo modification (AM) is sometimes characterized as a potential means of avoiding climate threshold responses, including large-scale ice sheet mass loss. Previous work has investigated the effects of AM on total sea-level rise over the present century, as well as AM’s ability to reduce long-term (≫103 yr) contributions to sea-level rise from the Greenland Ice Sheet (GIS). These studies have broken new ground, but neglect important feedbacks in the GIS system, or are silent on AM’s effectiveness over the short time scales that may be most relevant for decision-making (<103 yr). Here, we assess AM’s ability to reduce GIS sea-level contributions over decades to centuries, using a simplified ice sheet model. We drive this model using a business-as-usual base temperature forcing scenario, as well as scenarios that reflect AM-induced temperature stabilization or temperature drawdown. Our model results suggest that (i) AM produces substantial near-term reductions in the rate of GIS-driven sea-level rise. However, (ii) sea-level rise contributions from the GIS continue after AM begins. These continued sea level rise contributions persist for decades to centuries after temperature stabilization and temperature drawdown begin, unless AM begins in the next few decades. Moreover, (iii) any regrowth of the GIS is delayed by decades or centuries after temperature drawdown begins, and is slow compared to pre-AM rates of mass loss. Combined with recent work that suggests AM would not prevent mass loss from the West Antarctic Ice Sheet, our results provide a nuanced picture of AM’s possible effects on future sea-level rise.

Development of an engineering model atmosphere for Mars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Justus, C. G.

1988-01-01

An engineering model atmosphere for Mars is being developed with many of the same features and capabilities for the highly successful Global Reference Atmospheric Model (GRAM) program for Earth's atmosphere. As an initial approach, the model is being built around the Martian atmosphere model computer subroutine (ATMOS) of Culp and Stewart (1984). In a longer-term program of research, additional refinements and modifications will be included. ATMOS includes parameterizations to stimulate the effects of solar activity, seasonal variation, diurnal variation magnitude, dust storm effects, and effects due to the orbital position of Mars. One of the current shortcomings of ATMOS is the neglect of surface variation effects. The longer-term period of research and model building is to address some of these problem areas and provide further improvements in the model (including improved representation of near-surface variations, improved latitude-longitude gradient representation, effects of the large annual variation in surface pressure because of differential condensation/sublimation of the CO2 atmosphere in the polar caps, and effects of Martian atmospheric wave perturbations on the magnitude of the expected density perturbation.

A review of thermal performance improving methods of lithium ion battery: Electrode modification and thermal management system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Rui; Zhang, Sijie; Liu, Jie; Gu, Junjie

2015-12-01

Lithium ion (Li-ion) battery has emerged as an important power source for portable devices and electric vehicles due to its superiority over other energy storage technologies. A mild temperature variation as well as a proper operating temperature range are essential for a Li-ion battery to perform soundly and have a long service life. In this review paper, the heat generation and dissipation of Li-ion battery are firstly analyzed based on the energy conservation equations, followed by an examination of the hazardous effects of an above normal operating temperature. Then, advanced techniques in respect of electrode modification and systematic battery thermal management are inspected in detail as solutions in terms of reducing internal heat production and accelerating external heat dissipation, respectively. Specifically, variable parameters like electrode thickness and particle size of active material, along with optimization methods such as coating, doping, and adding conductive media are discussed in the electrode modification section, while the current development in air cooling, liquid cooling, heat pipe cooling, and phase change material cooling systems are reviewed in the thermal management part as different ways to improve the thermal performance of Li-ion batteries.

Modified silicas with different structure of grafted methylphenylsiloxane layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bolbukh, Yuliia; Terpiłowski, Konrad; Kozakevych, Roman; Sternik, Dariusz; Deryło-Marczewska, Anna; Tertykh, Valentin

2016-06-01

The method of a chemical assembly of the surface polymeric layer with high contents of the modifying agent was developed. Powders of nanodispersed silica with chemisorbed polymethylphenylsiloxane (PMPS) were synthesized by solvent-free chemical assembly technique with a dimethyl carbonate (DMC) as scission agent. Samples were characterized using FTIR spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and elemental analysis (CHN analysis). Coating microstructure, morphology, and hydrophilic-hydrophobic properties of nanoparticles were estimated. The results indicate a significant effect of the PMPS/DMC ratio at each modification stage on hydrophobic properties of modified silicas. Modification with a similar composition of the PMPS/DMC mixture, even with different polymer amount at each stage, provides the worst hydrophobicity. Results suggest that the highest hydrophobicity (contact angle θ = 135°-140°) is achieved in the case when silica modified with the PMPS/DMC mixture using multistage approach that providing a formation of the monomolecular layer of polysiloxane at the first modification step. The characteristics of surface structure were interpreted in terms of density of polymer-silica bonds at the interfaces that, usually, are reduced for modified surfaces, in a coupling with conformation model that accented the shape of chains (arch- and console-like) adsorbed on solid surfaces.

Surface modification of paclitaxel-loaded tri-block copolymer PLGA- b-PEG- b-PLGA nanoparticles with protamine for liver cancer therapy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, Nansha; Chen, Zhihong; Xiao, Xiaojun; Ruan, Changshun; Mei, Lin; Liu, Zhigang; Zeng, Xiaowei

2015-08-01

In order to enhance the therapeutic effect of chemotherapy on liver cancer, a biodegradable formulation of protamine-modified paclitaxel-loaded poly(lactide- co-glycolide)- b-poly(ethylene glycol)- b-poly(lactide- co-glycolide) (PLGA- b-PEG- b-PLGA) nanoparticles (PTX-loaded/protamine NPs) was prepared. Tri-block copolymer PLGA- b-PEG- b-PLGA was synthesized by ring-opening polymerization and characterized by 1H NMR spectroscopy and gel permeation chromatography. PTX-loaded and PTX-loaded/protamine NPs were characterized in terms of size, size distribution, zeta potential, surface morphology, drug encapsulation efficiency, and drug release. Confocal laser scanning microscopy showed that coumarin 6-loaded/protamine NPs were internalized by hepatocellular carcinoma cell line HepG2. The cellular uptake efficiency of NPs was obviously elevated after protamine modification. With commercial formulation Taxol® as the reference, HepG2 cells were also used to study the cytotoxicity of the NPs. PTX-loaded/protamine NPs exhibited significantly higher cytotoxicity than PTX-loaded NPs and Taxol® did. All the results suggested that surface modification of PTX-loaded PLGA- b-PEG- b-PLGA NPs with protamine boosted the therapeutic efficacy on liver cancer.

Modification of a compressor performance test bench for liquid slugging observation in refrigeration compressors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ola, Max; Thomas, Christiane; Hesse, Ullrich

2017-08-01

Compressor performance test procedures are defined by the standard DIN EN 13771, wherein a variety of possible calorimeter and flow rate measurement methods are suggested. One option is the selection of two independent measurement methods. The accuracies of both selected measurement methods are essential. The second option requires only one method. However the measurement accuracy of the used device has to be verified and recalibrated on a regular basis. The compressor performance test facility at the Technische Universitaet Dresden uses a calibrated flow measurement sensor, a hot gas bypass and a mixed flow heat exchanger. The test bench can easily be modified for tests of various compressor types at different operating ranges and with various refrigerants. In addition, the modified test setup enables the investigation of long term liquid slug and its effects on the compressor. The modification comprises observational components, adjustments of the control system, safety measures and a customized oil recirculation system for compressors which do not contain an integrated oil sump or oil level regulation system. This paper describes the setup of the test bench, its functional principle, the key modifications, first test results and an evaluation of the energy balance.

Lessons From the Dot Contraceptive Efficacy Study: Analysis of the Use of Agile Development to Improve Recruitment and Enrollment for mHealth Research.

PubMed

Shattuck, Dominick; Haile, Liya T; Simmons, Rebecca G

2018-04-20

Smartphone apps that provide women with information about their daily fertility status during their menstrual cycles can contribute to the contraceptive method mix. However, if these apps claim to help a user prevent pregnancy, they must undergo similar rigorous research required for other contraceptive methods. Georgetown University's Institute for Reproductive Health is conducting a prospective longitudinal efficacy trial on Dot (Dynamic Optimal Timing), an algorithm-based fertility app designed to help women prevent pregnancy. The aim of this paper was to highlight decision points during the recruitment-enrollment process and the effect of modifications on enrollment numbers and demographics. Recruiting eligible research participants for a contraceptive efficacy study and enrolling an adequate number to statistically assess the effectiveness of Dot is critical. Recruiting and enrolling participants for the Dot study involved making decisions based on research and analytic data, constant process modification, and close monitoring and evaluation of the effect of these modifications. Originally, the only option for women to enroll in the study was to do so over the phone with a study representative. On noticing low enrollment numbers, we examined the 7 steps from the time a woman received the recruitment message until she completed enrollment and made modifications accordingly. In modification 1, we added call-back and voicemail procedures to increase the number of completed calls. Modification 2 involved using a chat and instant message (IM) features to facilitate study enrollment. In modification 3, the process was fully automated to allow participants to enroll in the study without the aid of study representatives. After these modifications were implemented, 719 women were enrolled in the study over a 6-month period. The majority of participants (494/719, 68.7%) were enrolled during modification 3, in which they had the option to enroll via phone, chat, or the fully automated process. Overall, 29.2% (210/719) of the participants were enrolled via a phone call, 19.9% (143/719) via chat/IM, and 50.9% (366/719) directly through the fully automated process. With respect to the demographic profile of our study sample, we found a significant statistical difference in education level across all modifications (P<.05) but not in age or race or ethnicity (P>.05). Our findings show that agile and consistent modifications to the recruitment and enrollment process were necessary to yield an appropriate sample size. An automated process resulted in significantly higher enrollment rates than one that required phone interaction with study representatives. Although there were some differences in demographic characteristics of enrollees as the process was modified, in general, our study population is diverse and reflects the overall United States population in terms of race/ethnicity, age, and education. Additional research is proposed to identify how differences in mode of enrollment and demographic characteristics may affect participants' performance in the study. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02833922; http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02833922 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6yj5FHrBh). ©Dominick Shattuck, Liya T Haile, Rebecca G Simmons. Originally published in JMIR Mhealth and Uhealth (http://mhealth.jmir.org), 20.04.2018.

Nutritional status, food intake, and dysphagia in long-term survivors with head and neck cancer treated with chemoradiotherapy: a cross-sectional study.

PubMed

van den Berg, Manon G A; Rütten, Heidi; Rasmussen-Conrad, Ellen L; Knuijt, Simone; Takes, Robert P; van Herpen, Carla M L; Wanten, Geert J A; Kaanders, Johannes H A M; Merkx, Matthias A W

2014-01-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate nutritional status, food intake, and dysphagia in long-term head and neck cancer survivors. Thirty-two patients with stage III-IV head and neck cancer treated by chemoradiotherapy were invited to evaluate nutritional status (malnutrition, relative weight loss), food intake (food modification; quality), and dysphagia. At a median follow up of 44 months, 6 of 32 patients were at risk for malnutrition. Women (p = .049) and patients with high body mass index before treatment (p = .024) showed more weight loss. None of the 32 patients could eat a "full diet." Six patients used nutritional supplements/tube feeding. Low dysphagia-related quality of life scores were significantly correlated to increased food modification (r = 0.405; p = .024). Nutritional advice in patients with head and neck cancer is still necessary years after chemoradiation and should focus on nutritional status, food modification, and quality, in accord with recommended food groups. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Hip fracture prevention strategies in long-term care: a survey of Canadian physicians' opinions.

PubMed

Sawka, Anna M; Ismaila, Nofisat; Raina, Parminder; Thabane, Lehana; Straus, Sharon; Adachi, Jonathan D; Gafni, Amiram; Papaioannou, Alexandra

2010-11-01

To garner Canadian physicians' opinions on strategies to reduce hip fractures in long-term care (LTC) facilities, focusing on secondary prevention. A cross-sectional survey using a mailed, self-administered, written questionnaire. Canada. Family physician members of the Ontario Long-Term Care Association (n = 165) and all actively practising geriatricians registered in the Canadian Medical Directory (n = 81). The strength of recommendations for fracture-reduction strategies in LTC and barriers to implementing these strategies. Of the 246 physicians sent the questionnaire, 25 declined study materials and were excluded. Of the 221 remaining, 120 responded for a response rate of 54%. About two-thirds of respondents were family physicians (78 of 120) and the rest were mostly geriatricians. Most respondents strongly recommended the following secondary prevention strategies for use in LTC after hip fracture: calcium, vitamin D, oral aminobisphosphonates, physical therapy, and environmental modification (such as handrails). Most respondents either did not recommend or recommended limited use of etidronate, intravenous bisphosphonates, calcitonin, raloxifene, testosterone (for hypogonadal men), and teriparatide. Postmenopausal hormone therapy was discouraged or not recommended by most respondents. Support was mixed for the use of hip protectors, B vitamins, and folate. Barriers to implementation identified by most respondents included a lack of strong evidence of hip fracture reduction (for B vitamins and folate, cyclic etidronate, and testosterone), side effects (for postmenopausal hormone therapy), poor compliance (for hip protectors), and expense (for intravenous bisphosphonates and teriparatide). Some respondents cited side effects or poor compliance as barriers to using calcium and potent oral bisphosphonates. Canadian physicians favour the use of calcium, vitamin D, potent oral bisphosphonates, physical therapy, and evironmental modifications for LTC residents after hip fracture. Further study at the clinical and administrative levels is required to find ways to overcome the specific barriers to implementation and effectiveness of these interventions.

Volleyball: Special Olympics Sports Skills Instructional Program.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Special Olympics, Inc., Washington, DC.

One of seven booklets on Special Olympics Sports Skills Instructional Programs, this guide presents an instructional program for volleyball coaches working with mentally retarded persons. The instructional program presents information on the following topics: long term goals; short term objectives; modifications and adaptations of equipment, sport…

14 CFR 1216.203 - Definition of key terms.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... Floodplain and Wetlands Management § 1216.203 Definition of key terms. (a) Action—any NASA activity including... buildings, structures and utility items, marine structures, bridges and other land development items, such... wetlands. (i) Floodproofing—the modification of individual structures and facilities, their sites, and...

A review about the effect of life style modification on diabetes and quality of life.

PubMed

Shrestha, Prabha; Ghimire, Laxmi

2012-10-10

The aim of this review is to examine diabetes and quality of life improvements through modifying life style. The data was collected by reviewing published articles from PubMed, Medline, Web of Science, and Google open access publications. The review identified prevention strategies can reduce the risk and complications of diabetes. Life style modification in relation to obesity, eating habit, and physical exercise can play a major role in the prevention of diabetes. Nowadays, there has been progress in the development of behavioural strategies to modify these life style habits and it is not easy to accept for long term basis. If people maintain a balanced diet and physical exercise this can have real and potential benefits for their prevention and control of complications from chronic diseases particularly for cardiovascular risk and diabetes. Healthy life style may best be achieved through public private partnerships involving government, partners organizations, health services providers, community and people living with diabetes. Effective strategies to reduce the incidence of diabetes globally and assist in managing the disease are urgently required.

A Review about the Effect of Life style Modification on Diabetes and Quality of Life

PubMed Central

Shrestha, Prabha; Ghimire, Laxmi

2012-01-01

The aim of this review is to examine diabetes and quality of life improvements through modifying life style. The data was collected by reviewing published articles from PubMed, Medline, Web of Science, and Google open access publications. The review identified prevention strategies can reduce the risk and complications of diabetes. Life style modification in relation to obesity, eating habit, and physical exercise can play a major role in the prevention of diabetes. Nowadays, there has been progress in the development of behavioural strategies to modify these life style habits and it is not easy to accept for long term basis. If people maintain a balanced diet and physical exercise this can have real and potential benefits for their prevention and control of complications from chronic diseases particularly for cardiovascular risk and diabetes. Healthy life style may best be achieved through public private partnerships involving government, partners organizations, health services providers, community and people living with diabetes. Effective strategies to reduce the incidence of diabetes globally and assist in managing the disease are urgently required. PMID:23121755

Quasi-Chemical PC-SAFT: An Extended Perturbed Chain-Statistical Associating Fluid Theory for Lattice-Fluid Mixtures.

PubMed

Parvaneh, Khalil; Shariati, Alireza

2017-09-07

In this study, a new modification of the perturbed chain-statistical associating fluid theory (PC-SAFT) has been proposed by incorporating the lattice fluid theory of Guggenheim as an additional term to the original PC-SAFT terms. As the proposed model has one more term than the PC-SAFT, a new mixing rule has been developed especially for the new additional term, while for the conventional terms of the PC-SAFT, the one-fluid mixing rule is used. In order to evaluate the proposed model, the vapor-liquid equilibria were estimated for binary CO 2 mixtures with 16 different ionic liquids (ILs) of the 1-alkyl-3-methylimidazolium family with various anions consisting of bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl) imide, hexafluorophosphate, tetrafluoroborate, and trifluoromethanesulfonate. For a comprehensive comparison, three different modes (different adjustable parameters) of the proposed model were compared with the conventional PC-SAFT. Results indicate that the proposed modification of the PC-SAFT EoS is generally more reliable with respect to the conventional PC-SAFT in all the three proposed modes of vapor-liquid equilibria, giving good agreement with literature data.

Steps to Health employee weight management randomized control trial: short-term follow-up results.

PubMed

Østbye, Truls; Stroo, Marissa; Brouwer, Rebecca J N; Peterson, Bercedis L; Eisenstein, Eric L; Fuemmeler, Bernard F; Joyner, Julie; Gulley, Libby; Dement, John M

2015-02-01

To present the short-term follow-up findings of the Steps to Health study, a randomized trial to evaluate the effectiveness of two employee weight management programs offered within Duke University and the Health System. A total of 550 obese (body mass index, ≥30 kg/m2) employees were randomized 1:1 between January 2011 and June 2012 to the education-based Weight Management (WM) or the WM+ arm, which focused on behavior modification. Employees were contacted to complete a follow-up visit approximately 14 months after baseline. There were no clinically, or statistically, meaningful differences between arms, but there were modest reductions in body mass index, and positive, meaningful changes in diet and physical activity for both arms. The modest positive effects observed in this study may suggest that to achieve weight loss through the workplace more intensive interventions may be required.

Cognitive Modification and Systematic Desensitization with Test Anxious High School Students.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Leal, Lois L.; And Others

1981-01-01

Compares the relative effectiveness of cognitive modification and systematic desensitization with test anxious high school students (N=30). The systematic desensitization treatment appeared to be significantly more effective on the performance measure while cognitive modification was more effective on one of the self-report measures. (Author/JAC)

Experimental modification of interpretation bias about animal fear in young children: effects on cognition, avoidance behavior, anxiety vulnerability, and physiological responding.

PubMed

Lester, Kathryn J; Field, Andy P; Muris, Peter

2011-01-01

This study investigated the effects of experimentally modifying interpretation biases for children's cognitions, avoidance behavior, anxiety vulnerability, and physiological responding. Sixty-seven children (6-11 years) were randomly assigned to receive a positive or negative interpretation bias modification procedure to induce interpretation biases toward or away from threat about ambiguous situations involving Australian marsupials. Children rapidly learned to select outcomes of ambiguous situations, which were congruent with their assigned condition. Furthermore, following positive modification, children's threat biases about novel ambiguous situations significantly decreased, whereas threat biases significantly increased after negative modification. In response to a stress-evoking behavioral avoidance test, positive modification attenuated behavioral avoidance compared to negative modification. However, no significant effects of bias modification on anxiety vulnerability or physiological responses to this stress-evoking Behavioral Avoidance Task were observed.

Endoscopic Devices for Obesity.

PubMed

Sampath, Kartik; Dinani, Amreen M; Rothstein, Richard I

2016-06-01

The obesity epidemic, recognized by the World Health Organization in 1997, refers to the rising incidence of obesity worldwide. Lifestyle modification and pharmacotherapy are often ineffective long-term solutions; bariatric surgery remains the gold standard for long-term obesity weight loss. Despite the reported benefits, it has been estimated that only 1% of obese patients will undergo surgery. Endoscopic treatment for obesity represents a potential cost-effective, accessible, minimally invasive procedure that can function as a bridge or alternative intervention to bariatric surgery. We review the current endoscopic bariatric devices including space occupying devices, endoscopic gastroplasty, aspiration technology, post-bariatric surgery endoscopic revision, and obesity-related NOTES procedures. Given the diverse devices already FDA approved and in development, we discuss the future directions of endoscopic therapies for obesity.

On the Klein–Gordon oscillator subject to a Coulomb-type potential

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

Bakke, K., E-mail: kbakke@fisica.ufpb.br; Furtado, C., E-mail: furtado@fisica.ufpb.br

2015-04-15

By introducing the scalar potential as modification in the mass term of the Klein–Gordon equation, the influence of a Coulomb-type potential on the Klein–Gordon oscillator is investigated. Relativistic bound states solutions are achieved to both attractive and repulsive Coulomb-type potentials and the arising of a quantum effect characterized by the dependence of angular frequency of the Klein–Gordon oscillator on the quantum numbers of the system is shown. - Highlights: • Interaction between the Klein–Gordon oscillator and a modified mass term. • Relativistic bound states for both attractive and repulsive Coulomb-type potentials. • Dependence of the Klein–Gordon oscillator frequency on themore » quantum numbers. • Relativistic analogue of a position-dependent mass system.« less

Occupational Therapy in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit for a Neonate with Perinatal Stroke: A Case Report.

PubMed

Roan, Cecilia; Bell, Alison

2017-08-01

This case report describes an occupational therapy intervention based on synactive theory for a neonate born full-term with a diagnosis of perinatal stroke. Occupational therapy was provided 4-5 times a week for 3 weeks. The focus was improving infant state regulation and motor skills to support developmentally appropriate behaviors through environmental modifications, positioning, guided progression of sensory stimulation, and promotion of motor and postural skills. At discharge on day 24, the infant had improved state regulation, behavioral organization, and motor performance. Occupational therapy based on synactive theory was an effective therapeutic approach for improving the behavioral and motor organization of a full term infant diagnosed with perinatal stroke.

Susceptibility to price discounting of soda by neighbourhood educational status: an ecological analysis of disparities in soda consumption using point-of-purchase transaction data in Montreal, Canada.

PubMed

Mamiya, Hiroshi; Moodie, Erica E M; Ma, Yu; Buckeridge, David L

2018-06-22

Price discounting is a marketing tactic used frequently by food industries and retailers, but the extent to which education modifies the effect of discounting on the purchasing of unhealthy foods has received little attention. We investigated whether there was a differential association of price discounting of soda with store-level soda purchasing records between 2008 and 2013 by store-neighbourhood education in Montreal, Canada. Using data on grocery purchase transactions from a sample of supermarkets, pharmacies, supercentres and convenience stores, we performed an ecological time-series analysis, modelling weekly store-level sales of soda as a function of store-level price discounting, store- and neighbourhood-level confounders and an interaction term between discounting and categorical education in the neighbourhood of each store. Analysis by store type (n = 18 743, 12 437, 3965 and 49 533 store-weeks for superstores, pharmacies, supercentres and convenience stores, respectively) revealed that the effect measure modification of discounting by neighbourhood education on soda purchasing was lower in stores in the more educated neighbourhoods, most notably in pharmacies: -0.020 [95% confidence interval (CI): -0.028, -0.012] and -0.038 (95% CI: -0.051, -0.025), for middle- and high-education categories, respectively). Weaker effect modification was observed in convenience stores. There was no evidence of effect modification in supercentres or superstores. Price discounting is an important environmental risk factor for soda purchasing and can widen education inequalities in excess sugar intake across levels of education. Interventions to regulate price discounting warrant further investigation as a public health strategy to improve population nutrition, particularly in lower-education neighbourhoods.

Effects of energetic particle phase space modifications by instabilities on integrated modeling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Podestà, M.; Gorelenkova, M.; Fredrickson, E. D.; Gorelenkov, N. N.; White, R. B.

2016-11-01

Tokamak plasmas can feature a large population of energetic particles (EP) from neutral beam injection or fusion reactions. In turn, energetic particles can drive instabilities, which affect the driving EP population leading to a distortion of the original EP distribution function and of quantities that depend on it. The latter include, for example, neutral beam (NB) current drive and plasma heating through EP thermalization. Those effects must be taken into account to enable reliable and quantitative simulations of discharges for present devices as well as predictions for future burning plasmas. Reduced models for EP transport are emerging as an effective tool for long time-scale integrated simulations of tokamak plasmas, possibly including the effects of instabilities on EP dynamics. Available models differ in how EP distribution properties are modified by instabilities, e.g. in terms of gradients in real or phase space. It is therefore crucial to assess to what extent different assumptions in the transport models affect predicted quantities such as EP profile, energy distribution, NB driven current and energy/momentum transfer to the thermal populations. A newly developed kick model, which includes modifications of the EP distribution by instabilities in both real and velocity space, is used in this work to investigate these issues. Coupled to TRANSP simulations, the kick model is used to analyze NB-heated NSTX and DIII-D discharges featuring unstable Alfvén eigenmodes (AEs). Results show that instabilities can strongly affect the EP distribution function, and modifications propagate to macroscopic quantities such as NB-driven current profile and NB power transferred to the thermal plasma species. Those important aspects are only qualitatively captured by simpler fast ion transport models that are based on radial diffusion of energetic ions only.

CNS effects of heavy particle irradiation in space: behavioral implications.

PubMed

Joseph, J A; Erat, S; Rabin, B M

1998-01-01

Research from several sources indicates that young (3 mo) rats exposed to heavy particle irradiation (56Fe irradiation) produces changes in motor behavior as well as alterations in neuronal transmission similar to those seen in aged (22-24 mo) rats. These changes are specific to neuronal systems that are affected by aging. Since 56Fe particles make up approximately 1-2% of cosmic rays, these findings suggest that the neuronal effects of heavy particle irradiation on long-term space flights may be significant, and may even supercede subsequent mutagenic effects in their mission capabilities. It is suggested that among other methods, it may be possible to utilize nutritional modification procedures to offset the putative deleterious effects of these particles in space.

Berry phase and Hannay’s angle in the Born–Oppenheimer hybrid systems

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

Liu, H.D.; Yi, X.X.; Fu, L.B., E-mail: lbfu.iapcm@gmail.com

2013-12-15

In this paper, we investigate the Berry phase and Hannay’s angle in the Born–Oppenheimer (BO) hybrid systems and obtain their algebraic expressions in terms of one form connection. The semiclassical relation of Berry phase and Hannay’s angle is discussed. We find that, besides the usual connection term, the Berry phase of quantum BO composite system also contains a novel term brought forth by the coupling induced effective gauge potential. This quantum modification can be viewed as an effective Aharonov–Bohm effect. Moreover, the similar phenomenon is founded in Hannay’s angle of classical BO composite system, which indicates that the Berry phasemore » and Hannay’s angle possess the same relation as the usual one. An example is used to illustrate our theory. This scheme can be used to generate artificial gauge potentials for neutral atoms. Besides, the quantum–classical hybrid BO system is also studied to compare with the results in full quantum and full classical composite systems. -- Highlights: •We have derived the Berry phase and Hannay’s angle in BO hybrid systems. •The Berry phase contains a novel term brought by the effective gauge potential. •This mechanism can be used to generate artificial gauge potentials for neutral atoms. •The relation between Hannay’s angles and Berry phases is established.« less

Modifications to ART service delivery models by health facilities in Uganda in promotion of intervention sustainability: a mixed methods study.

PubMed

Zakumumpa, Henry; Bennett, Sara; Ssengooba, Freddie

2017-04-04

In November 2015, WHO released new treatment guidelines recommending that all diagnosed as HIV positive be enrolled on antiretroviral therapy (ART). Sustaining and expanding ART scale-up programs in resource-limited settings will require adaptations and modifications to traditional ART delivery models to meet the rapid increase in demand. We identify modifications to ART service delivery models by health facilities in Uganda to sustain ART interventions over a 10-year period (2004-2014). A mixed methods approach involving two study phases was adopted. In the first phase, a survey of a nationally representative sample of health facilities (n = 195) in Uganda which were accredited to provide ART between 2004 and 2009 was conducted. The second phase involved semi-structured interviews (n = 18) with ART clinic managers of 6 of the 195 health facilities purposively selected from the first study phase. We adopted a thematic framework consisting of four categories of modifications (format, setting, personnel, and population). The majority of health facilities 185 (95%) reported making modifications to ART interventions between 2004 and 2014. Of the 195 health facilities, 157 (81%) rated the modifications made to ART as "major." Modifications to ART were reported under all the four themes. The quantitative and qualitative findings are integrated and presented under four themes. Format: Reducing the frequency of clinic appointments and pharmacy-only refill programs was identified as important strategies for decongesting ART clinics. Home-based care programs were introduced to reduce provider ART delivery costs. Personnel: Task shifting to non-physician cadre was reported in 181 (93%) of the health facilities. Visits to the ART clinic were rationalized in favor of the sub-population deemed to have more clinical need. Two health facilities focused on patients living nearer the health facilities to align with targets set by external donors. Over the study period, health facilities made several modifications ART interventions to improve fit with their resource-constrained settings thereby promoting long-term sustainability. Further research evaluating the effect of these modifications on patient outcomes and ART delivery costs is recommended. Our findings have implications for the sustainability of ART scale-up programs in Uganda and other resource-limited settings.

Ratchet Effects and Domain Wall Energy Landscapes in Amorphous Magnetic Films with 2D Arrays of Asymmetric Holes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martin, J. I.; Alija, A.; Sobrado, I.; Perez-Junquera, A.; Rodriguez-Rodriguez, G.; Velez, M.; Alameda, J. M.; Marconi, V. I.; Kolton, A. B.; Parrondo, J. M. R.

2009-03-01

The driven motion of domain walls in extended magnetic films patterned with 2D arrays of asymmetric holes has been found to be subject to two different crossed ratchet effects [1] which results in an inversion of the sign of domain wall motion rectification as a function of the applied magnetic field. This effect can be understood in terms of the competition between drive, elasticity and asymmetric pinning as revealed by a simple 4̂-model. In order to optimize the asymmetric hole design, the relevant energy landscapes for domain wall motion across the array of asymmetric holes have been calculated by micromagnetic simulations as a function of array geometrical characteristics. The effects of a transverse magnetic field on these two crossed ratchet effects will also be discussed in terms of the decrease in domain wall energy per unit area and of the modifications in the magnetostatic barriers for domain wall pinning at the asymmetric inclusions. Work supported by Spanish MICINN.[1] A. Perez-Junquera et al, Phys. Rev. Lett. 100 (2008) 037203

Short-term Intervention to Revert Premalignant Lesions as Strategy to Prevent Gastrointestinal Cancers.

PubMed

Han, Young-Min; Park, Jong-Min; Lee, Ho-Jae; Kim, Eun-Hee; Hahm, Ki Baik

2013-12-01

"Prevention might be better than treatment in cancer treatment" is brief conclusion drawn from war on cancer through National Cancer Act of 1971 by U.S. President Richard Nixon. However, the clinical practice of chemoprevention is still in its infancy in spite of a wealth of data showing its effectiveness in experimental animals as well as in vitro mechanism research. Recent advances in either high throughput analysis including cancer genomes and tailored medicine or molecular targeted therapeutics, preventive strategies also should be changes as previous preventive strategies including phytoceuticals, life-style modification, and some empirical agents. Furthermore, molecular targeted therapeutics achieved high goal of effectiveness under the concept of therapeutic or preventive "synthetic lethality", of which extended application can be included within the scope of chemoprevention. Here, we will summarize several recent advances in chemopreventive strategy objected to justify optimism that chemoprevention will be an effective approach for the control of human cancer. siTRP (short-term intervention to revert premalignancy) strategy will be introduced for cancers in gastroenterology.

Communications systems checkout study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ginter, W. G.

1972-01-01

The results and conclusions of an engineering study of Space Station communications subsystem checkout are reported. The primary purpose of the study is to recommend specific guidelines and constraints for the design and utilization of the communications subsystem leading to a practical and effective means of onboard checkout implementation. Major study objectives are as follows: (1) identify candidate communications subsystem checkout concepts, (2) determine implementation impacts of feasible concepts, (3) evaluate practicality and effectiveness of alternative concepts, (4) propose baseline modifications to accommodate preferred concepts, and (5) recommend areas for additional investigation. In addition, study results are interpreted, where appropriate, in terms of their applicability to checkout of Shuttle-Orbiter communications subsystem.

Screening of anionic-modified polymers in terms of stability, disintegration, and swelling behavior.

PubMed

Laffleur, Flavia; Ijaz, Muhammad; Menzel, Claudia

2017-11-01

This study aimed to screen the stability, disintegration, and swelling behavior of chemically modified anionic polymers. Investigated polymers were well-known and widely used staples of the pharmaceutical and medical field, namely, alginate (AL), carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), polycarbophil (PC), and hyaluronic acid (HA). On the basis of amide bond formation between the carboxylic acid moieties of anionic polymers and the primary amino group of the modification ligand cysteine (CYS), the modified polymers were obtained. Unmodified polymers served as controls throughout all studies. With the Ellman's assay, modification degrees were determined of synthesized polymeric excipients. Stability assay in terms of erosion study at physiological conditions were performed. Moreover, water uptake of compressed polymeric discs were evaluated and further disintegration studies according to the USP were carried out to define the potential ranking. Results ranking figured out PCCYS > CMCCYS > HACYS > ALCYS in terms of water uptake capacity compared to respective controls. Cell viability assays on Caco-2 cell line as well as on RPMI 2650 (ATTC CCL30) proved modification not being harmful to those. Due to the results of this study, an intense screening of prominent anionic polymer derivate was performed in order to help the pharmaceutical research for the best choice of polymeric excipients for developments of controlled drug release systems.

Computer-aided design of high-contact-ratio gears for minimum dynamic load and stress

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lin, Hsiang Hsi; Lee, Chinwai; Oswald, Fred B.; Townsend, Dennis P.

1990-01-01

A computer aided design procedure is presented for minimizing dynamic effects on high contact ratio gears by modification of the tooth profile. Both linear and parabolic tooth profile modifications of high contact ratio gears under various loading conditions are examined and compared. The effects of the total amount of modification and the length of the modification zone were systematically studied at various loads and speeds to find the optimum profile design for minimizing the dynamic load and the tooth bending stress. Parabolic profile modification is preferred over linear profile modification for high contact ratio gears because of its lower sensitivity to manufacturing errors. For parabolic modification, a greater amount of modification at the tooth tip and a longer modification zone are required. Design charts are presented for high contact ratio gears with various profile modifications operating under a range of loads. A procedure is illustrated for using the charts to find the optimum profile design.

Research and Development in the Anthropogenic Cryosphere

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

de Jong, C.; Luthe, T.; Hohenwallne, D.

2009-04-01

Much of todays cryosphere research is oriented towards the polar regions and is strongly supported by large associations and funding. On the other hand, funding and institutional support is still limited for mountains. In Europe, mountain research is mainly funded through Alpine Space Interregs, FP7, ESF and COST. However, there is growing global change pressure on mountain regions, particularly in the more fragile, higher altitudes such as between 1000 - 3200 m in the Alps. Although these zones are comparable to the Arctic in terms of climatic and physiographic conditions, they are not in terms of human pressures and atmospheric pollution released from surrounding agglomerations. A re-orientation of research into more applied projects that tackle present day problems is necessary. Not only is climate change rapidly changing the face of mountains, socio-economic multipliers are also acting fast. New problems such as conflicts over natural resources are evolving at a rapid rate, requiring research funding and projects to respond at according rates if timely and efficient solutions are to be proposed. Other problems include contamination of high altitude lakes and ecosystems through atmospheric precipitation of persistent organic pollutants and concentration of radio-active substances. The rapid melt of glacier ice is also releasing pollutants that have been captured for many decades. Many of the present day problems develop due to a miscomprehension of the cryosphere. Short-term economical reasoning outweighs the long-term ecological impacts that could be very counter-productive at the long term. Both the glaciological, snow, permafrost, geomorphological, ecological, hydrological and atmospheric conditions are increasingly heavily modified by human impacts. The effects include the alteration of the ice cover (by artificial covering of glaciers), production of artificial snow cover, snow and ground compaction, erosion, landsliding, change in vegetation cover and fauna, modification of local hydrological cycle and modification of local climate and atmospheric pollution. Research in mountains should balance the needs of scientists and stakeholders alike, but this requires re-orientation of mountain research into multi-disciplinary projects next to basic science. Unlike the polar regions (with exceptions like Longyearbyen, Spitzbergen), seasonal population pressure in mountains is intense, causing local problems such as water scarcity. Research in these areas therefore requires close collaboration with stakeholders. Large-scale events such as Winter Olympics that have benefited from the classical mountain cryosphere in the past are now increasingly becoming internationally competitive and independent of the natural cryospheric conditions. New ski areas are developed world-wide in zones that do not offer natural climatological conditions for maintaining ski runs. Sub-zero temperatures are used as a basis for snow-making even in those regions that do not benefit from sufficient natural snow-fall. Large-scale landscape modification results in motorway like ski runs, large snow water reservoirs and extensive housing projects on vulnerable slopes. Due to steep and remote topography, transport is often dominated by cars and increases CO2 emissions intensively at local hot spots. In future, mountain slopes that have been heavily modified for winter tourism, may rapidly become neglected zones due to rapid snowline retreat. As the summer season extends, the modifications to the cryosphere will become more and more evident. Even with positive temperatures and snow-free ground, the vegetation season will not be extensive enough to enable rapid recovery, especially at altitudes above 2000 m a.s.l and north-facing aspects. Several decades of anthropogenic modification may require several centuries of recovery to provide new economical benefits.

Modification of the dingman mouth gag for better visibility and access in the management of cleft palate.

PubMed

Rao, Latha P; Peter, Sherry

2015-03-01

Palatal and pharyngeal surgeries often require wide visibility and access. Various mouth gags and retractors have been devised and many modifications suggested to optimize these surgeries. The Dingman mouth gag, one of the commonly used retractors, offers a lot of advantages in terms of good mouth opening, tongue retraction, self-retaining cheek retractors, and anchorage for sutures, but it has a main limitation in that it allows only limited visibility of the anterior palate and alveolus. Hence, a modification of the Dingman mouth gag is presented for better visibility of and accessibility to the anterior palate.

Wellness motivation in cardiac rehabilitation: the role of self-knowledge in cardiovascular risk modification.

PubMed

Fleury, Julie; Sedikides, Constantine

2007-08-01

Understanding the factors that motivate behavioral change is central to health promotion efforts. We used qualitative descriptive methods in an effort to understand the role of self-knowledge in the process of risk factor modification. The sample consisted of 17 men and 7 women with diagnosed coronary heart disease, who were attempting to initiate and sustain programs of cardiovascular risk modification. Participants described self-knowledge in terms of three contextually situated patterns: representational, evaluative, and behavioral action. Results reinforce the motivational role of the self and highlight the importance of understanding dimensions of self-knowledge relevant to cardiovascular risk reduction.

RNA-modifying proteins as anticancer drug targets.

PubMed

Boriack-Sjodin, P Ann; Ribich, Scott; Copeland, Robert A

2018-06-01

All major biological macromolecules (DNA, RNA, proteins and lipids) undergo enzyme-catalysed covalent modifications that impact their structure, function and stability. A variety of covalent modifications of RNA have been identified and demonstrated to affect RNA stability and translation to proteins; these mechanisms of translational control have been termed epitranscriptomics. Emerging data suggest that some epitranscriptomic mechanisms are altered in human cancers as well as other human diseases. In this Review, we examine the current understanding of RNA modifications with a focus on mRNA methylation, highlight their possible roles in specific cancer indications and discuss the emerging potential of RNA-modifying proteins as therapeutic targets.

Investigating the BSA protein adsorption and bacterial adhesion of Al-alloy surfaces after creating a hierarchical (micro/nano) superhydrophobic structure.

PubMed

Moazzam, Parisa; Razmjou, Amir; Golabi, Mohsen; Shokri, Dariush; Landarani-Isfahani, Amir

2016-09-01

Bacterial adhesion and subsequent biofilm formation on metals such as aluminum (Al) alloys lead to serious issues in biomedical and industrial fields from both an economical and health perspective. Here, we showed that a careful manipulation of Al surface characteristics via a facile two-steps superhydrophobic modification can provide not only biocompatibility and an ability to control protein adsorption and bacterial adhesion, but also address the issue of apparent long-term toxicity of Al-alloys. To find out the roles of surface characteristics, surface modification and protein adsorption on microbial adhesion and biofilm formation, the surfaces were systematically characterized by SEM, EDX, XPS, AFM, FTIR, water contact angle (WCA) goniometry, surface free energy (SFE) measurement, MTT, Bradford, Lowry and microtiter plate assays and also flow-cytometry and potentiostat analyses. Results showed that WCA and SFE changed from 70° to 163° and 36.3 to 0.13 mN m(-1) , respectively. The stable and durable modification led to a substantial reduction in static/dynamic BSA adsorption. The effect of such a treatment on the biofilm formation was analyzed by using three different bacteria of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Staphylococcus aureus. The microtiter plate assay and flow cytometry analysis showed that the modification not only could substantially reduce the bacterial adhesion but this biofouling resistance is independent of bacterium type. An excellent cell viability after exposure of HeLa cells to waters incubated with the modified samples was observed. Finally, the corrosion rate reduced sharply from 856.6 to 0.119 MPY after superhydrophobic modifications, which is an excellent stable corrosion inhibition property. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 104A: 2220-2233, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Adherence to recommended lifestyle modifications and factors associated for hypertensive patients attending chronic follow-up units of selected public hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

PubMed Central

Tibebu, Abel; Mengistu, Daniel; Negesa, Lemma

2017-01-01

Introduction One of the most prevalent noncommunicable diseases is hypertension (HTN). The availability of effective antihypertensive medications does not result in the expected outcomes in terms of controlling blood pressure. The rationale for these and other findings of uncontrolled HTN points toward poor adherence. The most neglected causes of uncontrolled HTN are unhealthy lifestyles. Few studies have been conducted to show the gap and magnitude of self-management adherence. Objective This study aimed to assess adherence to recommended lifestyle modifications of hypertensive patients undergoing follow-up at chronic follow-up units of public health hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2016. Methods Institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted in four public health hospitals which were selected by drawing lots. Systematic random sampling was used to select study subjects. The results of the descriptive statistics were expressed as percentages and frequencies. Associations between lifestyle modification and independent variables were ana-lyzed using bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis. The study was conducted from February 15, 2016 to April 15, 2016. Results The study included 404 respondents with a 97% response rate; 210 (52%) were male and the mean age was 54.00±10.77 years. The respondents’ adherence to lifestyle modifications was 23%. The lifestyle adherence was found to be better in females, patients who had comorbidities, and had been knowledgeable about the disease and was poor among young adult respondents. Conclusion The rates of adherence to lifestyle changes were generally found to be low. Educational sessions that especially focus on lifestyle modifications and ongoing support for patients should be designed and studies which assess all the components of self-management should be conducted for comparison among different subgroups. PMID:28280305

Does Tropical Cyclone Modification Make Sense? A Decision-Analytic Assessment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Klima, K.; Morgan, M. G.; Grossmann, I.

2009-12-01

Since the demise of project Stormfury in 1983, little attention has been devoted to the possibility of intentionally modifying tropical cyclones (TC). However, following Hurricane Katrina and three other Category 5 hurricanes (Emily, Rita, and Wilma), which together resulted in at least 2,280 deaths and over $120-billion in damages (Blake et al., 2007), the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has recently begun to support an effort to identify and evaluate hurricane mitigation strategies through Project HURRMIT ([http://www.ofcm.noaa.gov/ihc09/Presentations/Session10/s10-01Woodley.ppt]). Using a decision analytic framing and FEMA's HAZUS-MH MR3 damage model (http://www.fema.gov/plan/prevent/hazus/]), this paper asks, how sure must one be that an intervention will reduce TC damages before choosing to undertake a program of modification? The analysis is formulated in probabilistic terms, and assesses net benefits. In contrast to a much earlier application of decision analysis to TC-modification (Howard et al., 1972) , this work uses census data on the value of property at risk, and prior distributions on changing storm behavior based on data from hurricanes approaching the east coast of Florida since 1953. Even before considering both issues of liability that may arise from the fact that a modified storm is no longer "an act of God" as well as unforeseen environmental consequences, our results suggest that while TC modification techniques will likely alter TC behavior, one will have to be significantly more confident of the predictability and effectiveness of modification methods before their use can be justified. This work is supported by the Climate Decision Making Center through a cooperative agreement between the National Science Foundation (SES-0345798) and Carnegie Mellon University.

[Cognitive modifications associated with tobacco smoking].

PubMed

Lecacheux, Marie; Karila, Laurent; Aubin, Henri-Jean; Dupont, Patrick; Benyamina, Amine; Maman, Judith; Lebert, Amandine; Reynaud, Michel

2009-09-01

Tobacco is an important source of somatic diseases and causes high mortality. It is associated with cognitive disorders which tend to maintain addictive mechanisms. In the short term, the nicotine contained in tobacco enhances attention and memory. To realize this review, we made a research, we made a research on Medline, Embase, PsycInfo, Google Scholar using the single or combined key-words "tobacco", "nicotine", "addiction", "dependence", "cognitive disorders", "executive function", "memory", "attention", "neuropsychological". We selected English or French articles from 1987 to 2008 by privileging controlled studies. This effect can be observed in smokers (with or without withdrawal symptoms), non-smokers and in patients suffering from cognitive disorders. In the long term, tobacco accelerates dementia processes. It is associated with an increased risk of cognitive deterioration. This deterioration concerns mainly memory and processing speed. These results were reported in prospective studies. They contradict early reports, that suggested smoking could actually be protective against certain central neural system disorders. These early results relayed on case-control studies, which were certainly biased by a "healthy survival effect". Further studies are required to evaluate nicotine's long term effect and its potential efficacy in treating and preventing cognitive disorders or dementia.

Evaluation of lorcaserin for the treatment of obesity.

PubMed

Berlie, Helen D; Hurren, Kathryn M

2013-08-01

Obesity is an epidemic associated with significant morbidity. Lorcaserin , a novel serotonin 2C receptor antagonist, was recently approved as an adjunct to lifestyle modification for long-term weight loss and maintenance. Clinical studies in patients without diabetes demonstrated 5.8% mean weight loss from baseline with lorcaserin compared to 2.5% with placebo and over twice as many patients achieved ≥ 5% weight loss. Patients with diabetes achieved mean weight loss of 4.5% with lorcaserin compared to 1.5% with placebo as well as modest improvements in glycemic outcomes. The authors review the pharmacology and clinical efficacy as well as the safety and tolerability of lorcaserin. This was achieved through a PubMed search (1960 - present) on lorcaserin to generate the key literature in the area. The lorcaserin package insert and Food and Drug Administration briefing documents were also used to identify relevant information. To assess long-term clinical efficacy and safety, the authors used studies with a minimum duration of one year. Lorcaserin induces moderate but significant weight loss compared to placebo as an adjunct to lifestyle modification. Although head-to-head comparison trials are not available, lorcaserin is likely less effective but better tolerated than its recently approved competitor, phentermine/topiramate. Cardiovascular outcome data will be invaluable in determining lorcaserin's eventual utilization and place in therapy.

A 3-D ecosystem model in the Pacific Ocean and its simulations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Y.; Ba, Q.

2011-12-01

A simple 3-D ecosystem model with nutrient, phytoplankton, zooplankton and detritus is coupled into the basinwide ocean general circulation (OGCM) of the Pacific Ocean that has been examined by the passive tracer such as tritium. The model was integrated for 500 years under the forcing of climatological monthly mean fields. The model generates similar distribution patterns of ecosystem variables to the estimates based on satellite-derived chlorophyll maps by vertically generalized production model with low water-column NPP values in the subtropical region and high values in the subarctic region and equatorial upwelling region. But the area and strength of oligotrophic gyre is much larger than that indicated in the observations. Compared with the observations, seasonal variations of surface chlorophyll concentrations and top 200-m average zooplankton biomass in the mid-high latitude regions are well simulated in the model. Because of the restoring term near the northern boundary used in the model, a false phytoplankton bloom can occur nearby 50N during winter time. An unrealistic maximum value in the vertical profile of chlorophyll near ocean weather station Papa is generated by our model. In terms of modification of model structure and sensitivity test of the associated parameters, the simulated results can be well improved. Although the division of nutrient into nitrate and ammonium and inclusion of DON in the model can alleviate the low-NPP problem in the subtropical region, modification of the sinking rate and decomposition rate of detritus in the model can be more effective. Introduction of the influence of mixed layer on the ecosystem process and modification of restraint of nutrients near the northern boundary can overcome the shortcomings of simulation of both spring bloom near 50N and vertical profile of chlorophyll at Papa to some extent.

Adolescent opiate exposure in the female rat induces subtle alterations in maternal care and transgenerational effects on play behavior.

PubMed

Johnson, Nicole L; Carini, Lindsay; Schenk, Marian E; Stewart, Michelle; Byrnes, Elizabeth M

2011-01-01

The non-medical use of prescription opiates, such as Vicodin(®) and MSContin(®), has increased dramatically over the past decade. Of particular concern is the rising popularity of these drugs in adolescent female populations. Use during this critical developmental period could have significant long-term consequences for both the female user as well as potential effects on her future offspring. To address this issue, we have begun modeling adolescent opiate exposure in female rats and have observed significant transgenerational effects despite the fact that all drugs are withdrawn several weeks prior to pregnancy. The purpose of the current set of studies was to determine whether adolescent morphine exposure modifies postpartum care. In addition, we also examined juvenile play behavior in both male and female offspring. The choice of the social play paradigm was based on previous findings demonstrating effects of both postpartum care and opioid activity on play behavior. The findings revealed subtle modifications in the maternal behavior of adolescent morphine-exposed females, primarily related to the amount of time females' spend nursing and in non-nursing contact with their young. In addition, male offspring of adolescent morphine-exposed mothers (MOR-F1) demonstrate decreased rough and tumble play behaviors, with no significant differences in general social behaviors (i.e., social grooming and social exploration). Moreover, there was a tendency toward increased rough and tumble play in MOR-F1 females, demonstrating the sex-specific nature of these effects. Given the importance of the postpartum environment on neurodevelopment, it is possible that modifications in maternal-offspring interactions, related to a history of adolescent opiate exposure, plays a role in the observed transgenerational effects. Overall, these studies indicate that the long-term consequences of adolescent opiate exposure can impact both the female and her future offspring.

Teaching Literature and Human Values in ESL: Objectives and Selection

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Adeyanju, Thomas K.

1978-01-01

Long-term objectives for teaching literature to the student of English as a second language include developing an appreciation for literature and forming a civilized character through the modification and enlargement of values. Short-term objectives are to provide vicarious literary experiences and to reinforce language learning. (SW)

Multidirectional wear and impact-to-wear tests of phospholipid-polymer-grafted and vitamin E-blended crosslinked polyethylene: a pilot study.

PubMed

Kyomoto, Masayuki; Moro, Toru; Takatori, Yoshio; Tanaka, Sakae; Ishihara, Kazuhiko

2015-03-01

Modifying the surface and substrate of a crosslinked polyethylene (CLPE) liner may be beneficial for high wear resistance as well as high oxidative stability and excellent mechanical properties, which would be useful in contributing to the long-term performance of orthopaedic bearings. A grafted poly(2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine) (PMPC) layer on a vitamin E-blended crosslinked PE (HD-CLPE[VE]) surface may provide hydrophilicity and lubricity without compromising the oxidative stability or mechanical properties. (1) Will the modifications (PMPC grafting and vitamin E blending) affect the lubrication characteristics of the CLPE surface? (2) Will the modifications affect wear resistance? (3) Will the modifications affect fatigue resistance? We investigated the effects of surface and substrate modifications (PMPC grafting and vitamin E blending) on the wear and fatigue fracture of thin CLPE samples. For each of the untreated and PMPC-grafted CLPE surfaces with and without vitamin E blended (four groups), wettability and lubricity surface analyses were conducted as well as multidirectional wear and impact-to-wear tests using a pin-on-disk testing machine. The water wettability and lubricity (CLPE [mean ± 95% confidence interval]: 23.2° ± 1.8°, 0.005 ± 0.001; HD-CLPE[VE]: 26.0° ± 2.3°, 0.009 ± 0.003) of the PMPC-grafted surfaces were greater (p < 0.001) than that (CLPE: 90.3° ± 1.2°, 0.067 ± 0.015; HD-CLPE[VE]: 90.8° ± 2.0°, 0.063 ± 0.008) of the untreated surface regardless of vitamin E additives. It was observed that the PMPC grafting (CLPE: 0.23 ± 0.06 mg; HD-CLPE[VE]: 0.05 ± 0.10 mg) was associated with reduced gravimetric wear (CLPE: 0.53 ± 0.08 mg, p = 0.004 HD-CLPE[VE]: 0.23 ± 0.07 mg, p = 0.038) in the multidirectional wear test. The PMPC-grafted surface characteristics did not appear to affect the impact fatigue resistance regardless of vitamin E blending. PMPC grafting improved the surface hydrophilicity and lubricity, and it reduced the gravimetric wear in terms of multidirectional sliding. It did not result in differences in terms of the impact-to-unidirectional sliding regardless of vitamin E blending. Further research is needed to evaluate the wear resistance of PMPC-grafted HD-CLPE(VE) in long-term hip simulator tests under normal and severe conditions, which may offer useful clues to the possible performance of these materials in vivo. Our preliminary in vitro findings suggest that some improvement in the wear performance of crosslinked polyethylene acetabular liners in total hip arthroplasty could be obtained using PMPC grafting. Further research is needed to evaluate the wear resistance of PMPC-grafted HD-CLPE(VE) in long-term hip simulator tests under normal and severe conditions, which may offer useful clues to the possible performance of these materials in vivo.

The implementation and adherence to evidence-based protocols for psychotherapy for depression: the perspective of therapists in Dutch specialized mental healthcare.

PubMed

Bruijniks, Sanne J E; Franx, Gerdien; Huibers, Marcus J H

2018-06-14

Although psychotherapy is an effective treatment for depression, a large number of patients still do not receive care according to the protocols that are used in clinical trials. Instead, patients often receive a modified version of the original intervention. It is not clear how and when treatment protocols are used or modified in the Dutch specialized mental health care and whether these changes lead to suboptimal adherence to treatment protocols. In the context of an ongoing multicenter trial that investigates whether twice-weekly sessions of protocolized interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for depression lead to better treatment outcomes compared to once-weekly sessions, two focus groups using semi-structured interviews were organized. Aims were to increase insight in the adherence to and modifications of CBT and IPT protocols in the Dutch specialized mental health care for depression. Participants were fifteen therapists from seven mental health locations part of five mental health organizations. Verbatim transcripts were coded and analyzed using qualitative software. Three themes emerged: modification as the common practice, professional and patient factors influencing the adherence to protocols and organizational boundaries and flexibility. Treatment modification appeared to happen on a frequent basis, even in the context of a trial. Definitions of treatment modifications were multiple and varied from using intuition to flexible use of the same protocol. Therapist training and supervision, the years of work experience and individual characteristics of the therapist and the patient were mentioned to influence the adherence to protocols. Modifications of the therapists depended very much on the culture within the mental health locations, who differed in terms of the flexibility offered to therapists to choose and modify treatment protocols. Not all treatment modifications were in line with existing evidence or guidelines. Regular supervision, team meetings and a shared vision were identified as crucial factors to increase adherence to treatment protocols, whereas additional organizational factors, among which a change of mindset, may facilitate adequate implementation.

Surface modifications induced by pulsed-laser texturing—Influence of laser impact on the surface properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Costil, S.; Lamraoui, A.; Langlade, C.; Heintz, O.; Oltra, R.

2014-01-01

Laser cleaning technology provides a safe, environmentally friendly and very cost effective way to improve cleaning and surface preparation of metallic materials. Compared with efficient cleaning processes, it can avoid the disadvantages of ductile materials prepared by conventional technologies (cracks induced by sand-blasting for example) and treat only some selected areas (due to the optical fibers). By this way, laser technology could have several advantages and expand the range of thermal spraying. Moreover, new generations of lasers (fiber laser, disc laser) allow the development of new methods. Besides a significant bulk reduction, no maintenance, low operating cost, laser fibers can introduce alternative treatments. Combining a short-pulse laser with a scanner allows new applications in terms of surface preparation. By multiplying impacts using scanning laser, it is possible to shape the substrate surface to improve the coating adhesion as well as the mechanical behaviour. In addition, during the interactions of the laser beam with metallic surfaces, several modifications can be induced and particularly thermal effects. Indeed, under ambient conditions, a limited oxidation of the clean surface can occur. This phenomenon has been investigated in detail for silicon but few works have been reported concerning metallic materials. This paper aims at studying the surface modifications induced on aluminium alloy substrates after laser texturing. After morphological observations (SEM), a deeper surface analysis will be performed using XPS (X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy) measures and microhardness testing.

Epigenetics in women's health care.

PubMed

Pozharny, Yevgeniya; Lambertini, Luca; Clunie, Garfield; Ferrara, Lauren; Lee, Men-Jean

2010-01-01

Epigenetics refers to structural modifications to genes that do not change the nucleotide sequence itself but instead control and regulate gene expression. DNA methylation, histone modification, and RNA regulation are some of the mechanisms involved in epigenetic modification. Epigenetic changes are believed to be a result of changes in an organism's environment that result in fixed and permanent changes in most differentiated cells. Some environmental changes that have been linked to epigenetic changes include starvation, folic acid, and various chemical exposures. There are periods in an organism's life cycle in which the organism is particularly susceptible to epigenetic influences; these include fertilization, gametogenesis, and early embryo development. These are also windows of opportunity for interventions during the reproductive life cycle of women to improve maternal-child health. New data suggest that epigenetic influences might be involved in the regulation of fetal development and the pathophysiology of adult diseases such as cancer, diabetes, obesity, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Various epigenetic mechanisms may also be involved in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction. Additionally, environmental exposures are being held responsible for causing epigenetic changes that lead to a disease process. Exposure to heavy metals, bioflavonoids, and endocrine disruptors, such as bisphenol A and phthalates, has been shown to affect the epigenetic memory of an organism. Their long-term effects are unclear at this point, but many ongoing studies are attempting to elucidate the pathophysiological effects of such gene-environment interactions. (c) 2010 Mount Sinai School of Medicine.

Effect of the depressor septi nasi muscle modification on nasal tip rotation and projection.

PubMed

Toutounchi, Javad S; Biroon, Sogol H; Banaem, Samira M; Toutounchi, Neghisa S; Nezami, Nariman; Salari, Behzad

2015-06-01

The nasal tip is an important esthetic feature of the face and surgery on it is the most challenging part of a rhinoplasty. In the present study, we evaluated the effects of modification of the depressor septi nasi muscle on nasal tip rotation and projection. Eighty primary rhinoplasty patients who required nasal tip modifications were enrolled in a randomized clinical trial from October 2008 to March 2012. A study group composed of 40 patients underwent rhinoplasty including cutting and repositioning of the depressor septi nasi muscle and another group of 40 patients (control) underwent rhinoplasty without manipulation of the depressor septi nasi muscle. Nasal tip rotation and projection, and patient satisfaction were evaluated before and 6 months after the operation. Following rhinoplasty including cutting of the depressor septi nasi muscle, nasal tip rotation and projection, and patient satisfaction were improved in 70, 57.5, and 85 % of the patients, respectively; and in the control group, they were improved in 82.5, 55, and 67.5 %, respectively (P = 0.089, 0.607, and 0.069). Cutting and repositioning of the depressor septi nasi muscle as an adjunct to rhinoplasty is not associated with any additional advantage in terms of nasal tip rotation and projection, or patient satisfaction. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Neuroplastic Changes Induced by Cognitive Rehabilitation in Traumatic Brain Injury: A Review.

PubMed

Galetto, Valentina; Sacco, Katiuscia

2017-09-01

Cognitive deficits are among the most disabling consequences of traumatic brain injury (TBI), leading to long-term outcomes and interfering with the individual's recovery. One of the most effective ways to reduce the impact of cognitive disturbance in everyday life is cognitive rehabilitation, which is based on the principles of brain neuroplasticity and restoration. Although there are many studies in the literature focusing on the effectiveness of cognitive interventions in reducing cognitive deficits following TBI, only a few of them focus on neural modifications induced by cognitive treatment. The use of neuroimaging or neurophysiological measures to evaluate brain changes induced by cognitive rehabilitation may have relevant clinical implications, since they could add individualized elements to cognitive assessment. Nevertheless, there are no review studies in the literature investigating neuroplastic changes induced by cognitive training in TBI individuals. Due to lack of data, the goal of this article is to review what is currently known on the cerebral modifications following rehabilitation programs in chronic TBI. Studies investigating both the functional and structural neural modifications induced by cognitive training in TBI subjects were identified from the results of database searches. Forty-five published articles were initially selected. Of these, 34 were excluded because they did not meet the inclusion criteria. Eleven studies were found that focused solely on the functional and neurophysiological changes induced by cognitive rehabilitation. Outcomes showed that cerebral activation may be significantly modified by cognitive rehabilitation, in spite of the severity of the injury.

A weight modification sequential method for VSC-MTDC power system state estimation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Xiaonan; Zhang, Hao; Li, Qiang; Guo, Ziming; Zhao, Kun; Li, Xinpeng; Han, Feng

2017-06-01

This paper presents an effective sequential approach based on weight modification for VSC-MTDC power system state estimation, called weight modification sequential method. The proposed approach simplifies the AC/DC system state estimation algorithm through modifying the weight of state quantity to keep the matrix dimension constant. The weight modification sequential method can also make the VSC-MTDC system state estimation calculation results more ccurate and increase the speed of calculation. The effectiveness of the proposed weight modification sequential method is demonstrated and validated in modified IEEE 14 bus system.

Modifications of the Mesoscopic Structure of Cellulose in Paper Degradation

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

Missori, Mauro; Bicchieri, Marina; Mondelli, Claudia

2006-12-08

Paper is the main component of a huge quantity of cultural heritage. It is primarily composed of cellulose that undergoes significant degradation with the passage of time. By using small angle neutron scattering (SANS), we investigated cellulose's supramolecular structure, which allows access to degradation agents, in ancient and modern samples. For the first time, SANS data were interpreted in terms of water-filled pores, with their sizes increasing from 1.61 nm up to 1.97 nm in natural and artificially aged papers. The protective effect of gelatine sizing was also observed.

Modifications of the Mesoscopic Structure of Cellulose in Paper Degradation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Missori, Mauro; Mondelli, Claudia; de Spirito, Marco; Castellano, Carlo; Bicchieri, Marina; Schweins, Ralf; Arcovito, Giuseppe; Papi, Massimiliano; Castellano, Agostina Congiu

2006-12-01

Paper is the main component of a huge quantity of cultural heritage. It is primarily composed of cellulose that undergoes significant degradation with the passage of time. By using small angle neutron scattering (SANS), we investigated cellulose’s supramolecular structure, which allows access to degradation agents, in ancient and modern samples. For the first time, SANS data were interpreted in terms of water-filled pores, with their sizes increasing from 1.61 nm up to 1.97 nm in natural and artificially aged papers. The protective effect of gelatine sizing was also observed.

NuLYTELY (PEG 3350, sodium chloride, sodium bicarbonate and potassium chloride for oral solution).

PubMed

Swartz, M L

1992-02-01

NuLYTELY (PEG 3350, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Bicarbonate, and Potassium Chloride for Oral Solution), a product from Braintree Laboratories, Inc. is a modification of GoLYTELY (PEG 3350 and Electrolytes for Oral Solution) that has been found to have the same therapeutic advantages in terms of safety, efficacy, speed and patient acceptance. This product was developed to improve upon the taste of GoLYTELY. NuLYTELY represents an effective alternative for bowel cleansing prior to colonoscopy that may be more acceptable to some patients.

Effect of Carboxymethylation on the Rheological Properties of Hyaluronan

PubMed Central

Wendling, Rian J.; Christensen, Amanda M.; Quast, Arthur D.; Atzet, Sarah K.; Mann, Brenda K.

2016-01-01

Chemical modifications made to hyaluronan to enable covalent crosslinking to form a hydrogel or to attach other molecules may alter the physical properties as well, which have physiological importance. Here we created carboxymethyl hyaluronan (CMHA) with varied degree of modification and investigated the effect on the viscosity of CMHA solutions. Viscosity decreased initially as modification increased, with a minimum viscosity for about 30–40% modification. This was followed by an increase in viscosity around 45–50% modification. The pH of the solution had a variable effect on viscosity, depending on the degree of carboxymethyl modification and buffer. The presence of phosphates in the buffer led to decreased viscosity. We also compared large-scale production lots of CMHA to lab-scale and found that large-scale required extended reaction times to achieve the same degree of modification. Finally, thiolated CMHA was disulfide crosslinked to create hydrogels with increased viscosity and shear-thinning aspects compared to CMHA solutions. PMID:27611817

Pseudouridine and N6-methyladenosine modifications weaken PUF protein/RNA interactions

PubMed Central

AlSadhan, Ishraq; Merriman, Dawn K.; Al-Hashimi, Hashim M.; Herschlag, Daniel

2017-01-01

RNA modifications are ubiquitous in biology, with over 100 distinct modifications. While the vast majority were identified and characterized on abundant noncoding RNA such as tRNA and rRNA, the advent of sensitive sequencing-based approaches has led to the discovery of extensive and regulated modification of eukaryotic messenger RNAs as well. The two most abundant mRNA modifications—pseudouridine (Ψ) and N6-methyladenosine (m6A)—affect diverse cellular processes including mRNA splicing, localization, translation, and decay and modulate RNA structure. Here, we test the hypothesis that RNA modifications directly affect interactions between RNA-binding proteins and target RNA. We show that Ψ and m6A weaken the binding of the human single-stranded RNA binding protein Pumilio 2 (hPUM2) to its consensus motif, with individual modifications having effects up to approximately threefold and multiple modifications giving larger effects. While there are likely to be some cases where RNA modifications essentially fully ablate protein binding, here we see modest responses that may be more common. Such modest effects could nevertheless profoundly alter the complex landscape of RNA:protein interactions, and the quantitative rather than qualitative nature of these effects underscores the need for quantitative, systems-level accounting of RNA:protein interactions to understand post-transcriptional regulation. PMID:28138061

Learning from a provisioning site: code of conduct compliance and behaviour of whale sharks in Oslob, Cebu, Philippines

PubMed Central

Araujo, Gonzalo; Penketh, Luke; Heath, Anna; McCoy, Emer; Labaja, Jessica; Lucey, Anna; Ponzo, Alessandro

2015-01-01

While shark-based tourism is a rapidly growing global industry, there is ongoing controversy about the effects of provisioning on the target species. This study investigated the effect of feeding on whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) at a provisioning site in Oslob, Cebu, in terms of arrival time, avoidance and feeding behaviour using photo-identification and focal follows. Additionally, compliance to the code of conduct in place was monitored to assess tourism pressure on the whale sharks. Newly identified sharks gradually arrived earlier to the provisioning site after their initial sighting, indicating that the animals learn to associate the site with food rewards. Whale sharks with a long resighting history showed anticipatory behaviour and were recorded at the site on average 5 min after the arrival of feeder boats. Results from a generalised linear mixed model indicated that animals with a longer resighting history were less likely to show avoidance behaviour to touches or boat contact. Similarly, sequential data on feeding behaviour was modelled using a generalised estimating equations approach, which suggested that experienced whale sharks were more likely to display vertical feeding behaviour. It was proposed that the continuous source of food provides a strong incentive for the modification of behaviours, i.e., learning, through conditioning. Whale sharks are large opportunistic filter feeders in a mainly oligotrophic environment, where the ability to use novel food sources by modifying their behaviour could be of great advantage. Non-compliance to the code of conduct in terms of minimum distance to the shark (2 m) increased from 79% in 2012 to 97% in 2014, suggesting a high tourism pressure on the whale sharks in Oslob. The long-term effects of the observed behavioural modifications along with the high tourism pressure remain unknown. However, management plans are traditionally based on the precautionary principle, which aims to take preventive actions even if data on cause and effect are still inconclusive. Hence, an improved enforcement of the code of conduct coupled with a reduction in the conditioning of the whale sharks through provisioning were proposed to minimise the impacts on whale sharks in Oslob. PMID:26644984

Learning from a provisioning site: code of conduct compliance and behaviour of whale sharks in Oslob, Cebu, Philippines.

PubMed

Schleimer, Anna; Araujo, Gonzalo; Penketh, Luke; Heath, Anna; McCoy, Emer; Labaja, Jessica; Lucey, Anna; Ponzo, Alessandro

2015-01-01

While shark-based tourism is a rapidly growing global industry, there is ongoing controversy about the effects of provisioning on the target species. This study investigated the effect of feeding on whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) at a provisioning site in Oslob, Cebu, in terms of arrival time, avoidance and feeding behaviour using photo-identification and focal follows. Additionally, compliance to the code of conduct in place was monitored to assess tourism pressure on the whale sharks. Newly identified sharks gradually arrived earlier to the provisioning site after their initial sighting, indicating that the animals learn to associate the site with food rewards. Whale sharks with a long resighting history showed anticipatory behaviour and were recorded at the site on average 5 min after the arrival of feeder boats. Results from a generalised linear mixed model indicated that animals with a longer resighting history were less likely to show avoidance behaviour to touches or boat contact. Similarly, sequential data on feeding behaviour was modelled using a generalised estimating equations approach, which suggested that experienced whale sharks were more likely to display vertical feeding behaviour. It was proposed that the continuous source of food provides a strong incentive for the modification of behaviours, i.e., learning, through conditioning. Whale sharks are large opportunistic filter feeders in a mainly oligotrophic environment, where the ability to use novel food sources by modifying their behaviour could be of great advantage. Non-compliance to the code of conduct in terms of minimum distance to the shark (2 m) increased from 79% in 2012 to 97% in 2014, suggesting a high tourism pressure on the whale sharks in Oslob. The long-term effects of the observed behavioural modifications along with the high tourism pressure remain unknown. However, management plans are traditionally based on the precautionary principle, which aims to take preventive actions even if data on cause and effect are still inconclusive. Hence, an improved enforcement of the code of conduct coupled with a reduction in the conditioning of the whale sharks through provisioning were proposed to minimise the impacts on whale sharks in Oslob.

“Everyone Needs a Friend Sometimes” – Social Predictors of Long-Term Remission In First Episode Psychosis

PubMed Central

Bjornestad, Jone; Joa, Inge; Larsen, Tor K.; Langeveld, Johannes; Davidson, Larry; ten Velden Hegelstad, Wenche; Anda, Liss G.; Veseth, Marius; Melle, Ingrid; Johannessen, Jan O.; Bronnick, Kolbjorn

2016-01-01

Background: Predictors of long-term symptomatic remission are crucial to the successful tailoring of treatment in first episode psychosis. There is lack of studies distinguishing the predictive effects of different social factors. This prevents a valid evaluating of their independent effects. Objectives: To test specific social baseline predictors of long-term remission. We hypothesized that first, satisfaction with social relations predicts remission; second, that frequency of social interaction predicts remission; and third, that the effect of friend relationship satisfaction and frequency will be greater than that of family relations satisfaction and frequency. Material and Methods: A sample of first episode psychosis (n = 186) completed baseline measures of social functioning, as well as clinical assessments. We compared groups of remitted and non-remitted individuals using generalized estimating equations analyses. Results: Frequency of social interaction with friends was a significant positive predictor of remission over a two-year period. Neither global perceived social satisfaction nor frequency of family interaction showed significant effects. Conclusions: The study findings are of particular clinical importance since frequency of friendship interaction is a possibly malleable factor. Frequency of interaction could be affected through behavioral modification and therapy already from an early stage in the course, and thus increase remission rates. PMID:27757090

Clarifying the role of mean centring in multicollinearity of interaction effects.

PubMed

Shieh, Gwowen

2011-11-01

Moderated multiple regression (MMR) is frequently employed to analyse interaction effects between continuous predictor variables. The procedure of mean centring is commonly recommended to mitigate the potential threat of multicollinearity between predictor variables and the constructed cross-product term. Also, centring does typically provide more straightforward interpretation of the lower-order terms. This paper attempts to clarify two methodological issues of potential confusion. First, the positive and negative effects of mean centring on multicollinearity diagnostics are explored. It is illustrated that the mean centring method is, depending on the characteristics of the data, capable of either increasing or decreasing various measures of multicollinearity. Second, the exact reason why mean centring does not affect the detection of interaction effects is given. The explication shows the symmetrical influence of mean centring on the corrected sum of squares and variance inflation factor of the product variable while maintaining the equivalence between the two residual sums of squares for the regression of the product term on the two predictor variables. Thus the resulting test statistic remains unchanged regardless of the obvious modification of multicollinearity with mean centring. These findings provide a clear understanding and demonstration on the diverse impact of mean centring in MMR applications. ©2011 The British Psychological Society.

Obesity management: what brings success?

PubMed

Lagerros, Ylva Trolle; Rössner, Stephan

2013-01-01

The upward trend in obesity prevalence across regions and continents is a worldwide concern. Today a majority of the world's population live in a country where being overweight or obese causes more deaths than being underweight. Only a portion of those qualifying for treatment will get the health care they need. Still, a minor weight loss of 5-10% seems to be sufficient to provide a clinically significant health benefit in terms of risk factors for cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Diet, exercise and behavior modifications remain the current cornerstones of obesity treatment. Weight-loss drugs play a minor role. Drugs which were available and reasonably effective have been withdrawn because of side effects. The fact that the 'old' well known, but pretty unexciting tools remain the basic armamentarium causes understandable concern and disappointment among both patients and therapists. Hence, bariatric surgery has increasingly been recognized and developed, as it offers substantial weight loss and prolonged weight control. The present review highlights the conventional tools to counter obesity, lifestyle modification, pharmacotherapy and bariatric surgery, including some of the barriers to successful weight loss: (1) unrealistic expectations of success; (2) high attrition rates; (3) cultural norms of self-acceptance in terms of weight and beliefs of fat being healthy; (4) neighborhood attributes such as a lack of well-stocked supermarkets and rather the presence of convenience stores with low-quality foods; and (5) the perception of the neighborhood as less safe and with low walkability. Prevention is the obvious key. Cost-effective societal interventions such as a tax on unhealthy food and beverages, front-of-pack traffic light nutrition labeling and prohibition of advertising of junk food and beverages to children are also discussed.

Obesity management: what brings success?

PubMed Central

Rössner, Stephan

2013-01-01

The upward trend in obesity prevalence across regions and continents is a worldwide concern. Today a majority of the world’s population live in a country where being overweight or obese causes more deaths than being underweight. Only a portion of those qualifying for treatment will get the health care they need. Still, a minor weight loss of 5–10% seems to be sufficient to provide a clinically significant health benefit in terms of risk factors for cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Diet, exercise and behavior modifications remain the current cornerstones of obesity treatment. Weight-loss drugs play a minor role. Drugs which were available and reasonably effective have been withdrawn because of side effects. The fact that the ‘old’ well known, but pretty unexciting tools remain the basic armamentarium causes understandable concern and disappointment among both patients and therapists. Hence, bariatric surgery has increasingly been recognized and developed, as it offers substantial weight loss and prolonged weight control. The present review highlights the conventional tools to counter obesity, lifestyle modification, pharmacotherapy and bariatric surgery, including some of the barriers to successful weight loss: (1) unrealistic expectations of success; (2) high attrition rates; (3) cultural norms of self-acceptance in terms of weight and beliefs of fat being healthy; (4) neighborhood attributes such as a lack of well-stocked supermarkets and rather the presence of convenience stores with low-quality foods; and (5) the perception of the neighborhood as less safe and with low walkability. Prevention is the obvious key. Cost-effective societal interventions such as a tax on unhealthy food and beverages, front-of-pack traffic light nutrition labeling and prohibition of advertising of junk food and beverages to children are also discussed. PMID:23320052

Quantitative analysis of lentiviral transgene expression in mice over seven generations.

PubMed

Wang, Yong; Song, Yong-tao; Liu, Qin; Liu, Cang'e; Wang, Lu-lu; Liu, Yu; Zhou, Xiao-yang; Wu, Jun; Wei, Hong

2010-10-01

Lentiviral transgenesis is now recognized as an extremely efficient and cost-effective method to produce transgenic animals. Transgenes delivered by lentiviral vectors exhibited inheritable expression in many species including those which are refractory to genetic modification such as non-human primates. However, epigenetic modification was frequently observed in lentiviral integrants, and transgene expression found to be inversely correlated with methylation density. Recent data showed that about one-third lentiviral integrants exhibited hypermethylation and low expression, but did not demonstrate whether those integrants with high expression could remain constant expression and hypomethylated during long term germline transmission. In this study, using lentiviral eGFP transgenic mice as the experimental animals, lentiviral eGFP expression levels and its integrant numbers in genome were quantitatively analyzed by fluorescent quantitative polymerase-chain reaction (FQ-PCR), using the house-keeping gene ribosomal protein S18 (Rps18) and the single copy gene fatty acid binding protein of the intestine (Fabpi) as the internal controls respectively. The methylation densities of the integrants were quantitatively analyzed by bisulfite sequencing. We found that the lentiviral integrants with high expression exhibited a relative constant expression level per integrant over at least seven generations. Besides, the individuals containing these integrants exhibited eGFP expression levels which were positively and almost linearly correlated with the integrant numbers in their genomes, suggesting that no remarkable position effect on transgene expression of the integrants analyzed was observed. In addition, over seven generations the methylation density of these integrants did not increase, but rather decreased remarkably, indicating that these high expressing integrants were not subjected to de novo methylation during at least seven generations of germline transmission. Taken together, these data suggested that transgenic lines with long term stable expression and no position effect can be established by lentiviral transgenesis.

Modification of the effect of ambient air pollution on pediatric asthma emergency visits: susceptible subpopulations

PubMed Central

Strickland, Matthew J; Klein, Mitchel; Flanders, W Dana; Chang, Howard H; Mulholland, James A; Tolbert, Paige E; Darrow, Lyndsey A

2016-01-01

Background Children may have differing susceptibility to ambient air pollution concentrations depending on various background characteristics of the children. Methods Using emergency department (ED) data linked with birth records from Atlanta, Georgia, we identified ED visits for asthma or wheeze among children aged 2–16 years from 1 January 2002 through 30 June 2010 (n=109,758). We stratified by preterm delivery, term low birth weight, maternal race, Medicaid status, maternal education, maternal smoking, delivery method, and history of a bronchiolitis ED visit. Population-weighted daily average concentrations were calculated for 1-hour maximum carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide; 8-hour maximum ozone; and 24-hour average particulate matter less than 10 microns in diameter, particulate matter less than 2.5 microns in diameter (PM2.5), and the PM2.5 components sulfate, nitrate, ammonium, elemental carbon, and organic carbon, using measurements from stationary monitors. Poisson time-series models were used to estimate rate ratios for associations between three-day moving average pollutant concentrations and daily ED visit counts and to investigate effect-measure modification by the stratification factors. Results Associations between pollutant concentrations and asthma exacerbations were larger among children born preterm and among children born to African American mothers. Stratification by race and preterm status together suggested that both factors affected susceptibility. The largest estimated effect size (for an interquartile-range increase in pollution) was observed for ozone among preterm births to African American mothers: rate ratio=1.138 (95% confidence interval=1.077–1.203). In contrast, the rate ration for the ozone association among full-term births to mothers of other races was 1.025 (0.970–1.083). Conclusions Results support the hypothesis that children vary in their susceptibility to ambient air pollutants. PMID:25192402

Epigenetics as a mechanism linking developmental exposures to long-term toxicity.

PubMed

Barouki, R; Melén, E; Herceg, Z; Beckers, J; Chen, J; Karagas, M; Puga, A; Xia, Y; Chadwick, L; Yan, W; Audouze, K; Slama, R; Heindel, J; Grandjean, P; Kawamoto, T; Nohara, K

2018-05-01

A variety of experimental and epidemiological studies lend support to the Developmental Origin of Health and Disease (DOHaD) concept. Yet, the actual mechanisms accounting for mid- and long-term effects of early-life exposures remain unclear. Epigenetic alterations such as changes in DNA methylation, histone modifications and the expression of certain RNAs have been suggested as possible mediators of long-term health effects of environmental stressors. This report captures discussions and conclusions debated during the last Prenatal Programming and Toxicity meeting held in Japan. Its first aim is to propose a number of criteria that are critical to support the primary contribution of epigenetics in DOHaD and intergenerational transmission of environmental stressors effects. The main criteria are the full characterization of the stressors, the actual window of exposure, the target tissue and function, the specificity of the epigenetic changes and the biological plausibility of the linkage between those changes and health outcomes. The second aim is to discuss long-term effects of a number of stressors such as smoking, air pollution and endocrine disruptors in order to identify the arguments supporting the involvement of an epigenetic mechanism. Based on the developed criteria, missing evidence and suggestions for future research will be identified. The third aim is to critically analyze the evidence supporting the involvement of epigenetic mechanisms in intergenerational and transgenerational effects of environmental exposure and to particularly discuss the role of placenta and sperm. While the article is not a systematic review and is not meant to be exhaustive, it critically assesses the contribution of epigenetics in the long-term effects of environmental exposures as well as provides insight for future research. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Joint association of sleep problems and psychosocial working conditions with registered long-term sickness absence. A Danish cohort study.

PubMed

Madsen, Ida Eh; Larsen, Ann D; Thorsen, Sannie V; Pejtersen, Jan H; Rugulies, Reiner; Sivertsen, Børge

2016-07-01

Sleep problems and adverse psychosocial working conditions are associated with increased risk of long-term sickness absence. Because sleep problems affect role functioning they may also exacerbate any effects of psychosocial working conditions and vice versa. We examined whether sleep problems and psychosocial working conditions interact in their associations with long-term sickness absence. We linked questionnaire data from participants to two surveys of random samples of the Danish working population (N=10 752) with registries on long-term sick leave during five years after questionnaire response. We defined sleep problems by self-reported symptoms and/or register data on hypnotics purchases of hypnotics. Psychosocial working conditions included quantitative and emotional demands, influence, supervisor recognition and social support, leadership quality, and social support from colleagues. Using time-to-event models, we calculated hazard ratios (HR) and differences and examined interaction as departure from multiplicativity and additivity. During 40 165 person-years of follow-up, we identified 2313 episodes of long-terms sickness absence. Sleep problems predicted risk of long-term sickness absence [HR 1.54, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.38-1.73]. This association was statistically significantly stronger among participants with high quantitative demands and weaker among those with high supervisor recognition (P<0.0001). High quantitative demands exacerbated the association of sleep problems with risk of long-term sickness absence whereas high supervisor recognition buffered this association. To prevent long-term sickness absence among employees with sleep problems, workplace modifications focusing on quantitative demands and supervisor recognition may be considered. Workplace interventions for these factors may more effectively prevent sickness absence when targeted at this group. The efficacy and effectiveness of such interventions needs to be established in future studies.

Portero versus portador: Spanish interpretation of genomic terminology during whole exome sequencing results disclosure.

PubMed

Gutierrez, Amanda M; Robinson, Jill O; Statham, Emily E; Scollon, Sarah; Bergstrom, Katie L; Slashinski, Melody J; Parsons, Donald W; Plon, Sharon E; McGuire, Amy L; Street, Richard L

2017-11-01

Describe modifications to technical genomic terminology made by interpreters during disclosure of whole exome sequencing (WES) results. Using discourse analysis, we identified and categorized interpretations of genomic terminology in 42 disclosure sessions where Spanish-speaking parents received their child's WES results either from a clinician using a medical interpreter, or directly from a bilingual physician. Overall, 76% of genomic terms were interpreted accordantly, 11% were misinterpreted and 13% were omitted. Misinterpretations made by interpreters and bilingual physicians included using literal and nonmedical terminology to interpret genomic concepts. Modifications to genomic terminology made during interpretation highlight the need to standardize bilingual genomic lexicons. We recommend Spanish terms that can be used to refer to genomic concepts.

Transcript Isoform Variation Associated with Cytosine Modification in Human Lymphoblastoid Cell Lines.

PubMed

Zhang, Xu; Zhang, Wei

2016-06-01

Cytosine modification on DNA is variable among individuals, which could correlate with gene expression variation. The effect of cytosine modification on interindividual transcript isoform variation (TIV), however, remains unclear. In this study, we assessed the extent of cytosine modification-specific TIV in lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCLs) derived from unrelated individuals of European and African descent. Our study detected cytosine modification-specific TIVs for 17% of the analyzed genes at a 5% false discovery rate. Forty-five percent of the TIV-associated cytosine modifications correlated with the overall gene expression levels as well, with the corresponding CpG sites overrepresented in transcript initiation sites, transcription factor binding sites, and distinct histone modification peaks, suggesting that alternative isoform transcription underlies the TIVs. Our analysis also revealed 33% of the TIV-associated cytosine modifications that affected specific exons, with the corresponding CpG sites overrepresented in exon/intron junctions, splicing branching points, and transcript termination sites, implying that the TIVs are attributable to alternative splicing or transcription termination. Genetic and epigenetic regulation of TIV shared target preference but exerted independent effects on 61% of the common exon targets. Cytosine modification-specific TIVs detected from LCLs were differentially enriched in those detected from various tissues in The Cancer Genome Atlas, indicating their developmental dependency. Genes containing cytosine modification-specific TIVs were enriched in pathways of cancers and metabolic disorders. Our study demonstrated a prominent effect of cytosine modification variation on the transcript isoform spectrum over gross transcript abundance and revealed epigenetic contributions to diseases that were mediated through cytosine modification-specific TIV. Copyright © 2016 by the Genetics Society of America.

Economic Effects of Precipitation Enhancement in the Corn Belt.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gapcia, Philip; Changnon, Stanley; Pinar, Musa

1990-01-01

Policy formulation in weather modification requires an understanding of the economic effects from altered weather. The focus of this study is to provide insight into the beneficiaries of a functioning weather modification technology when applied at various spatial and temporal levels. An econometric model which links the corn/scybean production to U.S. cattle, hog and poultry sectors is used to determine the effects of precipitation enhancement in the U.S. Corn Belt, a humid climatic region. A regional supply formulation permits assessment of weather modification on production, prices, revenues to producers, and savings in consumers expenditures on meat. The results provide insight into the distribution of economic effects, emphasize the importance of careful planning in the use of weather modification technology, and provide useful information on the roles of local, state, and federal governments in the support of weather modification.

Biological effects of radiation, metabolic and replication kinetics alterations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Post, J.

1972-01-01

The biological effects of radiation upon normal and cancerous tissues were studied. A macromolecular precursor of DNA, 3ETdR, was incorporated into the cell nucleus during synthesis and provided intranuclear beta radiation. Tritium labeled cells were studied with autoradiographic methods; cell cycle kinetics were determined and cell functions modified by radiation dosage or by drugs were also evaluated. The long term program has included; (1) effects of radiation on cell replication and the correlation with incorporated dose levels, (2) radiation induced changes in cell function, viz., the response of beta irradiated spleen lymphocytes to antigenic stimulation by sheep red blood cells (SRBC), (3) kinetics of tumor and normal cell replication; and (4) megakaryocyte formation and modification by radiomimetic drugs.

Protective effects of short-term dietary restriction in surgical stress and chemotherapy

PubMed Central

Brandhorst, Sebastian; Harputlugil, Eylul; Mitchell, James R.; Longo, Valter D.

2017-01-01

Reduced caloric intake including fasting, as well as the dietary composition or the timing of food intake, impact longevity, likely through a modification in the onset or the severity of chronic aging-related diseases such as cancer. As with pre- and post-operative dietary recommendations, evidence-based nutritional advice from healthcare professionals during and after cancer treatment is often vague or conflicting. We hypothesize that preventive dietary recommendations can help in the context of both chronic cancer treatment efficacy and the avoidance of development of secondary malignancies, as well as in the context of protection from the acute stress of surgery. In this perspective review, we will discuss the latest findings on the potential role of short-term dietary restriction in cancer treatment and improvement of surgical outcome. PMID:28216454

New concepts in ionospheric modification. Final report, 15 April 1986-30 September 1987

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

Banks, P.M.; Fraser-Smith, A.C.; Gilchrist, B.E.

1987-04-01

This report considers the ionospheric modification that can be produced by energetic charged-particle and photon beams, which are emitted from a platform or vehicle (spacecraft or rockets) located in the ionosphere. The various beams considered include (1) charged-particle beams composed of low-, moderate-, and high-energy electrons, (2) beams of ions and plasma, and (3) photon beams of soft x rays and extreme-ultraviolet radiation. Briefly considered, in addition to the beam topics, is the ionospheric modification produced by the release of neutral gas of high molecular weight from a rapidly moving vehicle such as the Space Shuttle Orbiter. When a rankingmore » is made in terms of the new information that may be obtained, the scale of the modification that may be produced, and the availability of beam sources, ionospheric modification by means of relativistic electron beams appears particularly promising. However, all the methods have their own distinctive features that could make their use desirable under particular circumstances. The modification produced by means of beams of soft x rays, for example, is not strongly dependent on the beam's direction relative to the earth's magnetic field, and thus modification can be produced in regions inaccessible to a charged-particle beam from the same vehicle.« less

Synapse Specificity of Long-Term Potentiation Breaks Down with Aging

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ris, Laurence; Godaux, Emile

2007-01-01

Memory shows age-related decline. According to the current prevailing theoretical model, encoding of memories relies on modifications in the strength of the synapses connecting the different cells within a neuronal network. The selective increases in synaptic weight are thought to be biologically implemented by long-term potentiation (LTP). Here,…

77 FR 68193 - Self-Regulatory Organizations; NYSE Arca, Inc.; Order Granting Approval of Proposed Rule Change...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-11-15

... Available Under the Short Term Option Series Program (``STOS Program''), To Allow for the Exchange To Delist... Program Under Limited Circumstances November 8, 2012. I. Introduction On September 6, 2012, NYSE Arca, Inc...'') to make certain modifications to the Exchange's Short Term Option Series Program (``STOS Program...

40 CFR 35.6805 - Contents of an SSC.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... to approve modifications to the project so long as such changes are within the scope of the contract... compel cleanup, or for cost recovery under section 107 of CERCLA. (o) Sanctions for failure to comply with SSC terms, which states that if the signatories fail to comply with the terms of the SSC, EPA may...

[The cardiovagal, cardiosympathetic and vasosympathetic arterial baroreflexes and the neural control of short-term blood pressure].

PubMed

Robles-Cabrera, Adriana; Michel-Chávez, Anaclara; Callejas-Rojas, Rodolfo C; Malamud-Kessler, Caroline; Delgado, Guillermo; Estañol-Vidal, Bruno

2014-12-01

The factors that control the blood pressure are punctually regulated to keep it in reference values. These are maintained through autoregulatory mechanisms, humoral, nervous and endothelial-related. The humoral mechanisms are complex and modify the long-term blood pressure, in the other hand, the neurogenic mechanisms, are reflexive and can be observed in beat-to-beat changes of blood pressure. The nervous cardiovascular reflexes are mediated by high-pressure and low-pressure baroreceptors, as cardiovagal, cardiosympathetic and vasosympathetic. The arterial baroreceptor are stimulated when the blood volume-ejected by the ventricle distend the arterial walls. The neural discharge travels to the autonomic centers in the brain stem and the result is the modification of the heart rate and the vascular smooth muscle tone. This sudden modification is the responsible of the beat-to-beat (short-term) blood pressure variability. A review was made on the history of the physiology and experiments of the cardiovagal, cardiosympathetic and vasosympathetic baroreflexes and its influence in the short-term blood pressure variability.

A novel intranuclear RNA vector system for long-term stem cell modification

PubMed Central

Ikeda, Yasuhiro; Makino, Akiko; Matchett, William E.; Holditch, Sara J.; Lu, Brian; Dietz, Allan B.; Tomonaga, Keizo

2015-01-01

Genetically modified stem and progenitor cells have emerged as a promising regenerative platform in the treatment of genetic and degenerative disorders, highlighted by their successful therapeutic use in inherent immunodeficiencies. However, biosafety concerns over insertional mutagenesis resulting from integrating recombinant viral vectors have overshadowed the widespread clinical applications of genetically modified stem cells. Here, we report an RNA-based episomal vector system, amenable for long-term transgene expression in stem cells. Specifically, we used a unique intranuclear RNA virus, Borna disease virus (BDV), as the gene transfer vehicle, capable of persistent infections in various cell types. BDV-based vectors allowed for long-term transgene expression in mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) without affecting cellular morphology, cell surface CD105 expression, or the adipogenicity of MSCs. Similarly, replication-defective BDV vectors achieved long-term transduction of human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), while maintaining the ability to differentiate into three embryonic germ layers. Thus, the BDV-based vectors offer a genomic modification-free, episomal RNA delivery system for sustained stem cell transduction. PMID:26632671

Preparation of almost dispersant-free colloidal silica with superb dispersiblility in organic solvents and monomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Feng-Hsi; Chang, Chao-Ching; Oyang, Tai-Yueh; Chen, Ching-Chung; Cheng, Liao-Ping

2011-09-01

Surface modification of silica nanoparticles synthesized by the sol-gel process was performed using coupling agents, 3-(trimethoxysilyl) propyl methacrylate (MSMA) and/or trimethyethoxylsilane (TMES). The chemical structures of the formed particles were analyzed by means of Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and solid-state Si-Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (Si-NMR), and the particle sizes were determined by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) imaging. The latter results indicate that such surface modifications can effectively lessen the serious aggregation being common to pure silica nanoparticles. In some cases, separate particles of ca. 5-10 nm dia. could be obtained, when both MSMA and TMES were employed during the modification process. Dynamic light scattering method was adopted to examine the stability of the prepared silica sols during a long-term storage. It was found that the aggregation phenomenon can essentially be eliminated in case that the surface of silica contained sufficient amount of TMES moiety. Vacuum distillation was used to remove the volatile components such as methanol, ethanol, and water from the silica sol. The condensed product, containing 2 wt% residual solvent, appeared as a uniform transparent paste-like material, which can be dispersed in common organic solvents and monomers within a few seconds.

Suppression of protein adsorption on a charged phospholipid polymer interface.

PubMed

Xu, Yan; Takai, Madoka; Ishihara, Kazuhiko

2009-02-09

High capability of a charged interface to suppress adsorption of both anionic and cationic proteins was reported. The interface was covalently constructed on quartz by modifying with an anionic phospholipid copolymer, poly(2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine (MPC)-co-n-butyl methacrylate (BMA)-co-potassium 3-methacryloyloxypropyl sulfonate (PMPS)-co-3-methacryloxypropyl trimethoxysilane (MPTMSi)) (PMBSSi). The PMBSSi interfaces were very hydrophilic and homogeneous and could function effectively for a long time even under long-term fluidic working conditions. The PMBSSi density on the interface, which was controllable by adjusting the PMBSSi concentration of the modification solution, affected the surface properties, including the surface contact angle, the surface roughness, and the surface zeta-potential. When a PMBSSi modification was applied, the adsorption of various proteins (isoelectric point varying from 1.0 to 11.0) on quartz was reduced to at least 87% in amount, despite the various electrical natures these proteins have. The protein adsorption behavior on the PMBSSi interface depended more on the PMBSSi density than on the surface charge. The PMBSSi modification had a stable impact on the surface, not only at the physiologic ionic strength, but also over a range of the ionic strength, suggesting that electrostatic interactions do not dominate the behavior of protein adsorption to the PMBSSi surface.

Control of Flow Structure on Non-Slender Delta Wing: Bio-inspired Edge Modifications, Passive Bleeding, and Pulsed Blowing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yavuz, Mehmet Metin; Celik, Alper; Cetin, Cenk

2016-11-01

In the present study, different flow control approaches including bio-inspired edge modifications, passive bleeding, and pulsed blowing are introduced and applied for the flow over non-slender delta wing. Experiments are conducted in a low speed wind tunnel for a 45 degree swept delta wing using qualitative and quantitative measurement techniques including laser illuminated smoke visualization, particle image velocimety (PIV), and surface pressure measurements. For the bio-inspired edge modifications, the edges of the wing are modified to dolphin fluke geometry. In addition, the concept of flexion ratio, a ratio depending on the flexible length of animal propulsors such as wings, is introduced. For passive bleeding, directing the free stream air from the pressure side of the planform to the suction side of the wing is applied. For pulsed blowing, periodic air injection through the leading edge of the wing is performed in a square waveform with 25% duty cycle at different excitation frequencies and compared with the steady and no blowing cases. The results indicate that each control approach is quite effective in terms of altering the overall flow structure on the planform. However, the success level, considering the elimination of stall or delaying the vortex breakdown, depends on the parameters in each method.

Long-lasting antifog plasma modification of transparent plastics.

PubMed

Di Mundo, Rosa; d'Agostino, Riccardo; Palumbo, Fabio

2014-10-08

Antifog surfaces are necessary for any application requiring optical efficiency of transparent materials. Surface modification methods aimed toward increasing solid surface energy, even when supposed to be permanent, in fact result in a nondurable effect due to the instability in air of highly hydrophilic surfaces. We propose the strategy of combining a hydrophilic chemistry with a nanotextured topography, to tailor a long-lasting antifog modification on commercial transparent plastics. In particular, we investigated a two-step process consisting of self-masked plasma etching followed by plasma deposition of a silicon-based film. We show that the deposition of the silicon-based coatings on the flat (pristine) substrates allows a continuous variation of wettability from hydrophobic to superhydrophilic, due to a continuous reduction of carbon-containing groups, as assessed by Fourier transform infrared and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopies. By depositing these different coatings on previously nanotextured substrates, the surface wettability behavior is changed consistently, as well as the condensation phenomenon in terms of microdroplets/liquid film appearance. This variation is correlated with advancing and receding water contact angle features of the surfaces. More importantly, in the case of the superhydrophilic coating, though its surface energy decreases with time, when a nanotextured surface underlies it, the wetting behavior is maintained durably superhydrophilic, thus durably antifog.

Current and cutting-edge interventions for the treatment of obese patients.

PubMed

Vairavamurthy, Jenanan; Cheskin, Lawrence J; Kraitchman, Dara L; Arepally, Aravind; Weiss, Clifford R

2017-08-01

The number of people classified as obese, defined by the World Health Organization as having a body mass index ≥30, has been rising since the 1980s. Obesity is associated with comorbidities such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. The current treatment paradigm emphasizes lifestyle modifications, including diet and exercise; however this approach produces only modest weight loss for many patients. When lifestyle modifications fail, the current "gold standard" therapy for obesity is bariatric surgery, including Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, duodenal switch, and placement of an adjustable gastric band. Though effective, bariatric surgery can have severe short- and long-term complications. To fill the major gap in invasiveness between lifestyle modification and surgery, researchers have been developing pharmacotherapies and minimally invasive endoscopic techniques to treat obesity. Recently, interventional radiologists developed a percutaneous transarterial catheter-directed therapy targeting the hormonal function of the stomach. This review describes the current standard obesity treatments (including diet, exercise, and surgery), as well as newer endoscopic bariatric procedures and pharmacotherapies to help patients lose weight. We present data from two ongoing human trials of a new interventional radiology procedure for weight loss, bariatric embolization. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Discontinuation of approval of modifications in notes, guaranteed under Title VI or VII of the Public Health Service Act, proposed to permit use of the notes as collateral for tax-exempt financings--PHS. Final rule.

PubMed

1983-09-21

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) adds a new section to regulations for making and guaranteeing loans for construction and modernization of hospitals and medical facilities and to regulations for guaranteeing loans for the construction of teaching facilities for health professions personnel. Under these regulations HHS will not approve the modification of the terms of an existing loan guaranteed under Title VI or Title VII of the Public Health Service (PHS) Act if the modification would permit use of the guarantee (or guaranteed loan) as collateral for tax-exempt financing.

Experimental Study on the Efficacy of Site-Specific PEGylated Human Serum Albumins in Resuscitation From Hemorrhagic Shock.

PubMed

Song, Xinlei; Zhang, Shu; Cheng, Yanna; Zhao, Ting; Lian, Qianqian; Lu, Lu; Wang, Fengshan

2016-11-01

To evaluate the resuscitative efficacy and the effect on reperfusion injury of two site-specific PEGylated human serum albumins modified with linear or branched PEG20kDa, compared with saline, 8% human serum albumin and 25% human serum albumin, in a hemorrhagic shock model. Laboratory. Male Wistar rats. Prospective study. Rats were bled to hemorrhagic hypovolemic shock and resuscitated with different resuscitation fluids. The mean arterial pressure and blood gas variables were measured. Hemorheology analysis was performed to evaluate the influence of resuscitation on RBCs and blood viscosity. The microvascular state was indirectly characterized in terms of monocyte chemotactic protein-1 and endothelial nitric oxide synthase that related to shear stress and vasodilation, respectively. The levels of inflammation-related factors and apoptosis-related proteins were used to evaluate the reperfusion injury in lungs. The results showed that PEGylated human serum albumin could improve the level of mean arterial pressure and blood gas variables more effectively at the end of resuscitation. poly(ethylene glycol) modification was able to increase the viscosity of human serum albumin to the level of effectively enhancing the expression of monocyte chemotactic protein-1 and endothelial nitric oxide synthase, which could promote microvascular perfusion. The hyperosmotic resuscitative agents including both 25% human serum albumin and PEGylated human serum albumins could greatly attenuate lung injury. No significant therapeutic advantages but some disadvantages were found for Y shaped poly(ethylene glycol) modification over linear poly(ethylene glycol) modification, such as causing the decrease of erythrocyte deformability. Linear high molecular weight site-specific PEGylated human serum albumin is recommended to be used as a hyperosmotic resuscitative agent.

Effects of energetic particle phase space modifications by instabilities on integrated modeling

DOE PAGES

Podesta, M.; Gorelenkova, M.; Fredrickson, E. D.; ...

2016-07-22

Tokamak plasmas can feature a large population of energetic particles (EP) from neutral beam injection or fusion reactions. In turn, energetic particles can drive instabilities, which affect the driving EP population leading to a distortion of the original EP distribution function and of quantities that depend on it. The latter include, for example, neutral beam (NB) current drive and plasma heating through EP thermalization. Those effects must be taken into account to enable reliable and quantitative simulations of discharges for present devices as well as predictions for future burning plasmas. Reduced models for EP transport are emerging as an effectivemore » tool for long time-scale integrated simulations of tokamak plasmas, possibly including the effects of instabilities on EP dynamics. Available models differ in how EP distribution properties are modified by instabilities, e.g. in terms of gradients in real or phase space. It is therefore crucial to assess to what extent different assumptions in the transport models affect predicted quantities such as EP profile, energy distribution, NB driven current and energy/momentum transfer to the thermal populations. A newly developed kick model, which includes modifications of the EP distribution by instabilities in both real and velocity space, is used in this work to investigate these issues. Coupled to TRANSP simulations, the kick model is used to analyze NB-heated NSTX and DIII-D discharges featuring unstable Alfvén eigenmodes (AEs). Results show that instabilities can strongly affect the EP distribution function, and modifications propagate to macroscopic quantities such as NB-driven current profile and NB power transferred to the thermal plasma species. Furthermore, those important aspects are only qualitatively captured by simpler fast ion transport models that are based on radial diffusion of energetic ions only.« less

Epigenetic memory in response to environmental stressors.

PubMed

Vineis, Paolo; Chatziioannou, Aristotelis; Cunliffe, Vincent T; Flanagan, James M; Hanson, Mark; Kirsch-Volders, Micheline; Kyrtopoulos, Soterios

2017-06-01

Exposure to environmental stressors, toxicants, and nutrient deficiencies can affect DNA in several ways. Some exposures cause damage and alter the structure of DNA, but there is increasing evidence that the same or other environmental exposures, including those that occur during fetal development in utero , can cause epigenetic effects that modulate DNA function and gene expression. Some epigenetic changes to DNA that affect gene transcription are at least partially reversible ( i.e., they can be enzymatically reversed after cessation of exposure to environmental agents), but some epigenetic modifications seem to persist, even for decades. To explain the effects of early life experiences (such as famine and exposures to other stressors) on the long-term persistence of specific patterns of epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation, we propose an analogy with immune memory. We propose that an epigenetic memory can be established and maintained in self-renewing stem cell compartments. We suggest that the observations on early life effects on adult diseases and the persistence of methylation changes in smokers support our hypothesis, for which a mechanistic basis, however, needs to be further clarified. We outline a new model based on methylation changes. Although these changes seem to be mainly adaptive, they are also implicated in the pathogenesis and onset of diseases, depending on individual genotypic background and types of subsequent exposures. Elucidating the relationships between the adaptive and maladaptive consequences of the epigenetic modifications that result from complex environmental exposures is a major challenge for current and future research in epigenetics.-Vineis, P., Chatziioannou, A., Cunliffe, V. T., Flanagan, J. M., Hanson, M., Kirsch-Volders, M., Kyrtopoulos, S. Epigenetic memory in response to environmental stressors. © FASEB.

Effect of site-specific modification on restriction endonucleases and DNA modification methyltransferases.

PubMed Central

McClelland, M; Nelson, M; Raschke, E

1994-01-01

Restriction endonucleases have site-specific interactions with DNA that can often be inhibited by site-specific DNA methylation and other site-specific DNA modifications. However, such inhibition cannot generally be predicted. The empirically acquired data on these effects are tabulated for over 320 restriction endonucleases. In addition, a table of known site-specific DNA modification methyltransferases and their specificities is presented along with EMBL database accession numbers for cloned genes. PMID:7937074

Effect of high hydrostatic pressure and high dynamic pressure on stability and rheological properties of model oil-in-water emulsions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bigikocin, Erman; Mert, Behic; Alpas, Hami

2011-09-01

Both static and dynamic high pressure applications provide interesting modifications in food structures which lead to new product formulations. In this study, the effects of two different treatments, high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) and high dynamic pressure (HDP), on oil-in-water emulsions were identified and compared. Microfluidization was selected from among the HDP homogenization techniques. The performance of each process was analyzed in terms of rheological modifications and emulsion stability improvements compared with the coarse emulsions. The stability of the emulsions was determined comparatively by using an analytical photo-centrifuge device employing novel analysis technology. Whey protein isolate (WPI) in combination with a food polysaccharide (xanthan gum, guar gum or locust bean gum) were used as emulsifying and stabilizing ingredients. The effective disruption of oil droplets and the degradation of polysaccharides by the shear forces under high pressure in HDP microfluidization yielded finer emulsions with lower viscosities, leading to distinctive improvements in emulsion stability. On the other hand, improvements in stability obtained with HHP treatment were due to the thickening of the emulsions mainly induced by protein unfolding. The corresponding increases in viscosity were intensified in emulsion formulations containing higher oil content. Apart from these, HHP treatment was found to be relatively more contributive to the enhancements in viscoelastic properties.

Nd:YOV4 laser surface texturing on DLC coating: Effect on morphology, adhesion, and dry wear behavior

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Surfaro, Maria; Giorleo, Luca; Montesano, Lorenzo; Allegri, Gabriele; Ceretti, Elisabetta; La Vecchia, Giovina Marina

2018-05-01

The surface of structural components is usually subjected to higher stresses, greater wear or fatigue damage, and more direct environmental exposure than the inner parts. For this reason, the interest to improve superficial properties of items is constantly increasing in different fields as automotive, electronic, biomedical, etc. Different approaches can be used to achieve this goal: case hardening by means of superficial heat treatments like carburizing or nitriding, deposition of thin or thick coatings, roughness modification, etc. Between the available technologies to modify components surface, Laser Surface Texturing (LST) has already been recognized in the last decade as a process, which improves the tribological properties of various parts. Based on these considerations the aim of the present research work was to realize a controlled laser texture on a Diamond-like Carbon (DLC) thin coating (about 3 µm thick) without damaging both the coating itself and the substrate. In particular, the effect of laser process parameters as marking speed and loop cycle were investigated in terms of texture features modifications. Both qualitative and quantitative analyses of the texture were executed by using a scanning electron microscope and a laser probe system to select the proper laser parameters. Moreover, the effect of the selected texture on the DLC nanohardness, adhesion and wear behavior was pointed out.

Porous NiTi for bone implants: a review.

PubMed

Bansiddhi, A; Sargeant, T D; Stupp, S I; Dunand, D C

2008-07-01

NiTi foams are unique among biocompatible porous metals because of their high recovery strain (due to the shape-memory or superelastic effects) and their low stiffness facilitating integration with bone structures. To optimize NiTi foams for bone implant applications, two key areas are under active study: synthesis of foams with optimal architectures, microstructure and mechanical properties; and tailoring of biological interactions through modifications of pore surfaces. This article reviews recent research on NiTi foams for bone replacement, focusing on three specific topics: (i) surface modifications designed to create bio-inert porous NiTi surfaces with low Ni release and corrosion, as well as bioactive surfaces to enhance and accelerate biological activity; (ii) in vitro and in vivo biocompatibility studies to confirm the long-term safety of porous NiTi implants; and (iii) biological evaluations for specific applications, such as in intervertebral fusion devices and bone tissue scaffolds. Possible future directions for bio-performance and processing studies are discussed that could lead to optimized porous NiTi implants.

Porous NiTi for bone implants: A review

PubMed Central

Bansiddhi, A.; Sargeant, T.D.; Stupp, S.I.; Dunand, D.C.

2011-01-01

NiTi foams are unique among biocompatible porous metals because of their high recovery strain (due to the shape-memory or superelastic effects) and their low stiffness facilitating integration with bone structures. To optimize NiTi foams for bone implant applications, two key areas are under active study: synthesis of foams with optimal architectures, microstructure and mechanical properties; and tailoring of biological interactions through modifications of pore surfaces. This article reviews recent research on NiTi foams for bone replacement, focusing on three specific topics: (i) surface modifications designed to create bio-inert porous NiTi surfaces with low Ni release and corrosion, as well as bioactive surfaces to enhance and accelerate biological activity; (ii) In vitro and in vivo biocompatibility studies to confirm the long-term safety of porous NiTi implants; and (iii) biological evaluations for specific applications, such as in intervertebral fusion devices and bone tissue scaffolds. Possible future directions for bio-performance and processing studies are discussed that could lead to optimized porous NiTi implants. PMID:18348912

Salmonella Typhimurium Enzymatically Landscapes the Host Intestinal Epithelial Cell (IEC) Surface Glycome to Increase Invasion*

PubMed Central

Park, Dayoung; Arabyan, Narine; Williams, Cynthia C.; Song, Ting; Mitra, Anupam; Weimer, Bart C.; Lebrilla, Carlito B.

2016-01-01

Although gut host-pathogen interactions are glycan-mediated processes, few details are known about the participating structures. Here we employ high-resolution mass spectrometric profiling to comprehensively identify and quantitatively measure the exact modifications of native intestinal epithelial cell surface N-glycans induced by S. typhimurium infection. Sixty minutes postinfection, select sialylated structures showed decreases in terms of total number and abundances. To assess the effect of cell surface mannosylation, we selectively rerouted glycan expression on the host using the alpha-mannosidase inhibitor, kifunensine, toward overexpression of high mannose. Under these conditions, internalization of S. typhimurium significantly increased, demonstrating that bacteria show preference for particular structures. Finally, we developed a novel assay to measure membrane glycoprotein turnover rates, which revealed that glycan modifications occur by bacterial enzyme activity rather than by host-derived restructuring strategies. This study is the first to provide precise structural information on how host N-glycans are altered to support S. typhimurium invasion. PMID:27754876

Evaluation of High Rate Algae Ponds for treatment of anaerobically digested wastewater: Effect of CO2 addition and modification of dilution rate.

PubMed

de Godos, I; Arbib, Z; Lara, E; Rogalla, F

2016-11-01

High Rate Algae Ponds (HRAP) are the simplest way to grow microalgae biomass and an interesting alternative for wastewater treatment. In this work the performance of these systems was evaluated using anaerobically digested wastewater as culture medium. Two variables were studied in long-term mode: the carbon dioxide supply and the modification of the dilution rates. The results showed that CO2 supply increases the productivity but less than expected considering the potential biomass generation calculated based on the ratios of carbon to nitrogen of microalgae and wastewater. The assimilation into biomass only accounted for 57% of the inlet nitrogen under the best conditions because nitrification and volatilization reduced the availability of this element. The operation under short hydraulic retention times presented a more interesting performance with higher biomass productivities. The biomass produced was efficiently harvested with in a Dissolved Air Flotation (DAF) unit. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Critical ligand binding reagent preparation/selection: when specificity depends on reagents.

PubMed

Rup, Bonita; O'Hara, Denise

2007-05-11

Throughout the life cycle of biopharmaceutical products, bioanalytical support is provided using ligand binding assays to measure the drug product for pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic, and immunogenicity studies. The specificity and selectivity of these ligand binding assays are highly dependent on the ligand binding reagents. Thus the selection, characterization, and management processes for ligand binding reagents are crucial to successful assay development and application. This report describes process considerations for selection and characterization of ligand binding reagents that are integral parts of the different phases of assay development. Changes in expression, purification, modification, and storage of the ligand binding reagents may have a profound effect on the ligand binding assay performance. Thus long-term management of the critical ligand binding assay reagents is addressed including suggested characterization criteria that allow ligand binding reagents to be used in as consistent a manner as possible. Examples of challenges related to the selection, modification, and characterization of ligand binding reagents are included.

Microscopic mechanism of amino silicone oil modification and modification effect with different amino group contents based on molecular dynamics simulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Liping; Li, Wenjun; Chen, Dachuan; Yuan, Jianmin; Lu, Gang; Zhou, Dianwu

2018-05-01

The microscopic mechanism of amino silicone oil (ASO) modification of natural fiber was investigated for the first time using molecular dynamics (MD) simulation at the atomic and molecular levels. The MD simulation results indicated that the ASO molecular interacted with the cellulose molecular within the natural fiber, mainly by intermolecular forces of Nsbnd Hsbnd O and Osbnd Hsbnd N hydrogen bonds and the molecular chain of ASO absorbed onto the natural fiber in a selective orientation, i.e., the hydrophobic alkyl groups (sbnd CnH2n+1) project outward and the polar amino groups (sbnd NH2) point to the surface of natural fiber. Consequently, the ASO modification changed the surface characteristic of natural fiber from hydrophilic to hydrophobic. Furthermore, the modification effects of the ASO modification layer with different amino group contents (m:n ratio) were also evaluated in this study by calculating the binding energy between the ASO modifier and natural fiber, and the cohesive energy density and free volume of the ASO modification layer. The results showed that the binding energy reached a maximum when the m:n ratio of ASO was of 8:4, suggesting that a good bonding strength was achieved at this m:n ratio. It was also found that the cohesive energy density enhanced with the increase in the amino group content, and the higher the cohesive energy density, the easier the formation of the ASO modification layer. However, the fraction free volume decreased with the increase in the amino group content. This is good for improving the water-proof property of natural fiber. The present work can provide an effective method for predicting the modification effects and designing the optimized m:n ratio of ASO modification.

Germline Genetic Modification and Identity: the Mitochondrial and Nuclear Genomes.

PubMed

Scott, Rosamund; Wilkinson, Stephen

2017-12-01

In a legal 'first', the UK removed a prohibition against modifying embryos in human reproduction, to enable mitochondrial replacement techniques (MRTs), a move the Government distanced from 'germline genetic modification', which it aligned with modifying the nuclear genome. This paper (1) analyzes the uses and meanings of this term in UK/US legal and policy debates; and (2) evaluates related ethical concerns about identity. It shows that, with respect to identity, MRTs and nuclear genome editing techniques such as CRISPR/Cas-9 (now a policy topic), are not as different as has been supposed. While it does not follow that the two should be treated exactly alike, one of the central reasons offered for treating MRTs more permissively than nuclear genetic modification, and for not regarding MRTs as 'germline genetic modification', is thereby in doubt. Identity cannot, by itself, do the work thus far assigned to it, explicitly or otherwise, in law and policy.

Enzyme Technology of Peroxidases: Immobilization, Chemical and Genetic Modification

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Longoria, Adriana; Tinoco, Raunel; Torres, Eduardo

An overview of enzyme technology applied to peroxidases is made. Immobilization on organic, inorganic, and hybrid supports; chemical modification of amino acids and heme group; and genetic modification by site-directed and random mutagenesis are included. Different strategies that were carried out to improve peroxidase performance in terms of stability, selectivity, and catalytic activity are analyzed. Immobilization of peroxidases on inorganic and organic materials enhances the tolerance of peroxidases toward the conditions normally found in many industrial processes, such as the presence of an organic solvent and high temperature. In addition, it is shown that immobilization helps to increase the Total Turnover Number at levels high enough to justify the use of a peroxidase-based biocatalyst in a synthesis process. Chemical modification of peroxidases produces modified enzymes with higher thermostability and wider substrate variability. Finally, through mutagenesis approaches, it is possible to produce modified peroxidases capable of oxidizing nonnatural substrates with high catalytic activity and affinity.

Scalar-tensor extension of the ΛCDM model

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

Algoner, W.C.; Velten, H.E.S.; Zimdahl, W., E-mail: w.algoner@cosmo-ufes.org, E-mail: velten@pq.cnpq.br, E-mail: winfried.zimdahl@pq.cnpq.br

2016-11-01

We construct a cosmological scalar-tensor-theory model in which the Brans-Dicke type scalar Φ enters the effective (Jordan-frame) Hubble rate as a simple modification of the Hubble rate of the ΛCDM model. This allows us to quantify differences between the background dynamics of scalar-tensor theories and general relativity (GR) in a transparent and observationally testable manner in terms of one single parameter. Problems of the mapping of the scalar-field degrees of freedom on an effective fluid description in a GR context are discused. Data from supernovae, the differential age of old galaxies and baryon acoustic oscillations are shown to strongly limitmore » potential deviations from the standard model.« less

Modeling of venturi scrubber efficiency

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Crowder, Jerry W.; Noll, Kenneth E.; Davis, Wayne T.

The parameters affecting venturi scrubber performance have been rationally examined and modifications to the current modeling theory have been developed. The modified model has been validated with available experimental data for a range of throat gas velocities, liquid-to-gas ratios and particle diameters and is used to study the effect of some design parameters on collection efficiency. Most striking among the observations is the prediction of a new design parameter termed the minimum contactor length. Also noted is the prediction of little effect on collection efficiency with increasing liquid-to-gas ratio above about 2ℓ m-3. Indeed, for some cases a decrease in collection efficiency is predicted for liquid rates above this value.

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

Leaitch, W.R.; Isaac, G.A.

Comparisons are drawn between the aerosol cloud microphysical theory implicit in the modeling of Kaufman et al. and the cloud droplet and cloud water sulfate concentrations of Leaitch et al. for the purpose of helping to understand the effect of sulfate particle son climate through cloud modification. In terms of the range of possibilities and prospects for future climate given by Kaufman et al. for the effect of sulfur on cloud albedo, the data favor the possibility of stronger cooling. Scatter in the data makes it impossible to constrain model parameters; however, the comparisons suggest that there may not bemore » a universal relationship, and that the uncertainties involved in trying to model this process are large.« less

Asthma and atopy in children born by caesarean section: effect modification by family history of allergies - a population based cross-sectional study.

PubMed

Kolokotroni, Ourania; Middleton, Nicos; Gavatha, Marina; Lamnisos, Demetris; Priftis, Kostas N; Yiallouros, Panayiotis K

2012-11-16

Studies on the association of birth by caesarean section (C/S) and allergies have produced conflicting findings. Furthermore, evidence on whether this association may differ in those at risk of atopy is limited. This study aims to investigate the association of mode of delivery with asthma and atopic sensitization and the extent to which any effect is modified by family history of allergies. Asthma outcomes were assessed cross-sectionally in 2216 children at age 8 on the basis of parents' responses to the ISAAC questionnaire whilst skin prick tests to eleven aeroallergens were also performed in a subgroup of 746 children. Adjusted odds ratios of asthma and atopy by mode of delivery were estimated in multivariable logistic models while evidence of effect modification was examined by introducing interaction terms in the models. After adjusting for potential confounders, children born by C/S appeared significantly more likely than those born vaginally to report ever wheezing (OR 1.36, 95% CI 1.07-1.71), asthma diagnosis (OR 1.41, 95% CI 1.09-1.83) and be atopic (OR 1.67, 95% CI 1.08-2.60). There was modest evidence that family history of allergies may modify the effect of C/S delivery on atopy (p for effect modification=0.06) but this was not the case for the asthma outcomes. Specifically, while more than a two-fold increase in the odds of being a topic was observed in children with a family history of allergies if born by C/S (OR 2.62, 95% CI 1.38-5.00), no association was observed in children without a family history of allergies (OR 1.16, 95% CI 0.64-2.11). Birth by C/S is associated with asthma and atopic sensitization in childhood. The association of C/S and atopy appears more pronounced in children with family history of allergies.

Prediction of effects of wing contour modifications on low-speed maximum lift and transonic performance for the EA-6B aircraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Allison, Dennis O.; Waggoner, E. G.

1990-01-01

Computational predictions of the effects of wing contour modifications on maximum lift and transonic performance were made and verified against low speed and transonic wind tunnel data. This effort was part of a program to improve the maneuvering capability of the EA-6B electronics countermeasures aircraft, which evolved from the A-6 attack aircraft. The predictions were based on results from three computer codes which all include viscous effects: MCARF, a 2-D subsonic panel code; TAWFIVE, a transonic full potential code; and WBPPW, a transonic small disturbance potential flow code. The modifications were previously designed with the aid of these and other codes. The wing modifications consists of contour changes to the leading edge slats and trailing edge flaps and were designed for increased maximum lift with minimum effect on transonic performance. The prediction of the effects of the modifications are presented, with emphasis on verification through comparisons with wind tunnel data from the National Transonic Facility. Attention is focused on increments in low speed maximum lift and increments in transonic lift, pitching moment, and drag resulting from the contour modifications.

Applied Self-Statement Modification and Applied Modified Desensitization in the Treatment of Speech Anxiety: The Synergy Hypothesis.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Melanson, Diane C.

A study examined the relative effectiveness and synergistic effect of two treatments for reducing speech anxiety--Self-Statement Modification (SSM), a therapy focused on modification of cognitive behavior; and Modified Desensitization (MD), a therapy focused on physiological variables, utilizing relaxation training, group hierarchy construction,…

Effects of wing modification on an aircraft's aerodynamic parameters as determined from flight data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hess, R. A.

1986-01-01

A study of the effects of four wing-leading-edge modifications on a general aviation aircraft's stability and control parameters is presented. Flight data from the basic aircraft configuration and configurations with wing modifications are analyzed to determine each wing geometry's stability and control parameters. The parameter estimates and aerodynamic model forms are obtained using the stepwise regression and maximum likelihood techniques. The resulting parameter estimates and aerodynamic models are verified using vortex-lattice theory and by analysis of each model's ability to predict aircraft behavior. Comparisons of the stability and control derivative estimates from the basic wing and the four leading-edge modifications are accomplished so that the effects of each modification on aircraft stability and control derivatives can be determined.

Brain Imaging and Human Nutrition: Which Measures to Use in Intervention Studies?12

PubMed Central

Sizonenko, Stéphane V.; Babiloni, Claudio; Sijben, John W.; Walhovd, Kristine B.

2013-01-01

Throughout the life span, the brain is a metabolically highly active organ that uses a large proportion of total nutrient and energy intake. Furthermore, the development and repair of neural tissue depend on the proper intake of essential structural nutrients, minerals, and vitamins. Therefore, what we eat, or refrain from eating, may have an important impact on our cognitive ability and mental performance. Two of the key areas in which diet is thought to play an important role are in optimizing neurodevelopment in children and in preventing neurodegeneration and cognitive decline during aging. From early development to aging, brain imaging can detect structural, functional, and metabolic changes in humans and modifications due to altered nutrition or to additional nutritional supplementation. Inclusion of imaging measures in clinical studies can increase understanding with regard to the modification of brain structure, metabolism, and functional endpoints and may provide early sensitive measures of long-term effects. In this symposium, the utility of existing brain imaging technologies to assess the effects of nutritional intervention in humans is described. Examples of current research showing the utility of these markers are reviewed. PMID:24038255

Hyperarticulation in Lombard speech: Global coordination of the jaw, lips and the tongue.

PubMed

Šimko, Juraj; Beňuš, Štefan; Vainio, Martti

2016-01-01

Over the last century, researchers have collected a considerable amount of data reflecting the properties of Lombard speech, i.e., speech in a noisy environment. The documented phenomena predominately report effects on the speech signal produced in ambient noise. In comparison, relatively little is known about the underlying articulatory patterns of Lombard speech, in particular for lingual articulation. Here the authors present an analysis of articulatory recordings of speech material in babble noise of different intensity levels and in hypoarticulated speech and report quantitative differences in relative expansion of movement of different articulatory subsystems (the jaw, the lips and the tongue) as well as in relative expansion of utterance duration. The trajectory modifications for one articulator can be relatively reliably predicted by those for another one, but subsystems differ in a degree of continuity in trajectory expansion elicited across different noise levels. Regression analysis of articulatory modifications against durational expansion shows further qualitative differences between the subsystems, namely, the jaw and the tongue. The findings are discussed in terms of possible influences of a combination of prosodic, segmental, and physiological factors. In addition, the Lombard effect is put forward as a viable methodology for eliciting global articulatory variation in a controlled manner.

Evaluation of long-term therapeutic efficacy of behavior modification program with chronic male psychiatric inpatients.

PubMed

Peniston, E G

1988-06-01

An experimental Behavior Modification Program (BMP) was carried out on fifteen diagnosed chronic schizophrenic male patients on a mixed-population open psychiatric unit in a VA Medical Center. Treatment consisted of positive-reinforcement and response-cost contingency procedures and was conducted for 85, 80, 75 and 70 sessions, respectively, for the fifteen patients. These psychiatric patients were recruited for treatment based on staff documentation and reports of gross verbal abuse, non-attendance at assignments, poor grooming skills, and excessive drinking behavior while circulating on the mixed-population open psychiatric ward. Three to four of the aforementioned inappropriate (target) behaviors were selected for each subject and were treated sequentially in a multiple baseline design. Both procedures were highly successful for the fifteen male psychiatric patients in changing three of their target behaviors, but only partially effective for eight of those patients with drinking behavior problems. Follow-up assessment of the participants in the study indicated that most of the positive effects of intervention persisted over 6-12 months post-treatment periods. Of the fifteen inpatients that participated in the BMP, fourteen have been discharged into community foster homes and one remains on the open psychiatric ward awaiting placement outside the hospital.

Anthropogenic shift of planktonic food web structure in a coastal lagoon by freshwater flow regulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hemraj, Deevesh A.; Hossain, A.; Ye, Qifeng; Qin, Jian G.; Leterme, Sophie C.

2017-03-01

Anthropogenic modification of aquatic systems has diverse impacts on food web interactions and ecosystem states. To reverse the adverse effects of modified freshwater flow, adequate management of discharge is required, especially due to higher water requirements and abstractions for human use. Here, we look at the effects of anthropogenically controlled freshwater flow regimes on the planktonic food web of a Ramsar listed coastal lagoon that is under recovery from degradation. Our results show shifts in water quality and plankton community interactions associated to changes in water flow. These shifts in food web interactions represent modifications in habitat complexity and water quality. At high flow, phytoplankton-zooplankton interactions dominate the food web. Conversely, at low flow, bacteria, viruses and nano/picoplankton interactions are more dominant, with a substantial switch of the food web towards heterotrophy. This switch can be associated with excess organic matter loading, decomposition of dead organisms, and synergistic and antagonistic interactions. We suggest that a lower variability in flow amplitude could be beneficial for the long-term sustaining of water quality and food web interactions, while improving the ecosystem health of systems facing similar stresses as the Coorong.

Anthropogenic shift of planktonic food web structure in a coastal lagoon by freshwater flow regulation

PubMed Central

Hemraj, Deevesh A.; Hossain, A.; Ye, Qifeng; Qin, Jian G.; Leterme, Sophie C.

2017-01-01

Anthropogenic modification of aquatic systems has diverse impacts on food web interactions and ecosystem states. To reverse the adverse effects of modified freshwater flow, adequate management of discharge is required, especially due to higher water requirements and abstractions for human use. Here, we look at the effects of anthropogenically controlled freshwater flow regimes on the planktonic food web of a Ramsar listed coastal lagoon that is under recovery from degradation. Our results show shifts in water quality and plankton community interactions associated to changes in water flow. These shifts in food web interactions represent modifications in habitat complexity and water quality. At high flow, phytoplankton-zooplankton interactions dominate the food web. Conversely, at low flow, bacteria, viruses and nano/picoplankton interactions are more dominant, with a substantial switch of the food web towards heterotrophy. This switch can be associated with excess organic matter loading, decomposition of dead organisms, and synergistic and antagonistic interactions. We suggest that a lower variability in flow amplitude could be beneficial for the long-term sustaining of water quality and food web interactions, while improving the ecosystem health of systems facing similar stresses as the Coorong. PMID:28327643

[Diet and lifestyle rules in chronic constipation in adults: From fantasy to reality…].

PubMed

Fathallah, Nadia; Bouchard, Dominique; de Parades, Vincent

2017-01-01

Chronic constipation is one of the most common chronic gastrointestinal complaints and a frequent reason for consultation. Lifestyle modification and dietary advice attract a lot of patients, often dissatisfied with a long-term drug intake. These behavioral modifications are recommended as a first-line approach in the treatment of chronic mild constipation in the majority of current guidelines despite a low level of evidence. Fiber supplementation is probably the most relevant measure because of a satisfactory level of proof. It improves stool frequency and consistency. It has a positive effect on excessive straining and colonic transit time. The recommended daily fiber intake is at least 20 to 25g. To avoid side effects like bloating and abdominal pain, it must be gradually adjusted after a several days period. The benefice of increasing water intake or daily physical exercise in the treatment of chronic constipation have a lack of evidence, except specific situations such as elderly, hospitalized, institutionalized, dehydrated people or people consuming fluids less than 500mL/day. Change in environmental defecation conditions or bowel habits are probably anecdotal recommendations. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Commentary: physical approaches for the treatment of epilepsy: electrical and magnetic stimulation and cooling.

PubMed

Löscher, Wolfgang; Cole, Andrew J; McLean, Michael J

2009-04-01

Physical approaches for the treatment of epilepsy currently under study or development include electrical or magnetic brain stimulators and cooling devices, each of which may be implanted or applied externally. Some devices may stimulate peripheral structures, whereas others may be implanted directly into the brain. Stimulation may be delivered chronically, intermittently, or in response to either manual activation or computer-based detection of events of interest. Physical approaches may therefore ultimately be appropriate for seizure prophylaxis by causing a modification of the underlying substrate, presumably with a reduction in the intrinsic excitability of cerebral structures, or for seizure termination, by interfering with the spontaneous discharge of pathological neuronal networks. Clinical trials of device-based therapies are difficult due to ethical issues surrounding device implantation, problems with blinding, potential carryover effects that may occur in crossover designs if substrate modification occurs, and subject heterogeneity. Unresolved issues in the development of physical treatments include optimization of stimulation parameters, identification of the optimal volume of brain to be stimulated, development of adequate power supplies to stimulate the necessary areas, and a determination that stimulation itself does not promote epileptogenesis or adverse long-term effects on normal brain function.

Effects of land-use change on community composition of tropical amphibians and reptiles in Sulawesi, Indonesia.

PubMed

Wanger, Thomas C; Iskandar, Djoko T; Motzke, Iris; Brook, Barry W; Sodhi, Navjot S; Clough, Yann; Tscharntke, Teja

2010-06-01

Little is known about the effects of anthropogenic land-use change on the amphibians and reptiles of the biodiverse tropical forests of Southeast Asia. We studied a land-use modification gradient stretching from primary forest, secondary forest, natural-shade cacao agroforest, planted-shade cacao agroforest to open areas in central Sulawesi, Indonesia. We determined species richness, abundance, turnover, and community composition in all habitat types and related these to environmental correlates, such as canopy heterogeneity and thickness of leaf litter. Amphibian species richness decreased systematically along the land-use modification gradient, but reptile richness and abundance peaked in natural-shade cacao agroforests. Species richness and abundance patterns across the disturbance gradient were best explained by canopy cover and leaf-litter thickness in amphibians and by canopy heterogeneity and cover in reptiles. Amphibians were more severely affected by forest disturbance in Sulawesi than reptiles. Heterogeneous canopy cover and thick leaf litter should be maintained in cacao plantations to facilitate the conservation value for both groups. For long-term and sustainable use of plantations, pruned shade trees should be permanently kept to allow rejuvenation of cacao and, thus, to prevent repeated forest encroachment.

Modification of Sr on 4004 Aluminum Alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Erjun; Cao, Guojian; Feng, Yicheng; Wang, Liping; Wang, Guojun; Lv, Xinyu

2013-05-01

As a brazing foil, 4004 Al alloy has good welding performance. However, the high Si content decreases the plasticity of the alloy. To improve the plasticity of 4004 Al alloy and subsequently improve the productivity of 4004 Al foil or 434 composite foil, 4004 Al alloy was modified by Al-10%Sr master alloy. Modification effects of an additional amount of Sr, modification temperature, and holding time on 4004 aluminum alloy were studied by orthogonal design. The results showed that the greatest impact parameter of 4004 aluminum alloy modification was the additional amount of Sr, followed by holding time and modification temperature. The optimum modification parameters obtained by orthogonal design were as follows: Sr addition of 0.04%, holding time of 60 min, and modification temperature of 760°C. The effect of Sr addition on modification was analyzed in detail based on orthogonal results. With increasing of Sr addition, elongation of 4004 alloy increased at first, and decreased after reaching the maximum value.

Surface modification effects on defect-related photoluminescence in colloidal CdS quantum dots.

PubMed

Lee, TaeGi; Shimura, Kunio; Kim, DaeGwi

2018-05-03

We investigated the effects of surface modification on the defect-related photoluminescence (PL) band in colloidal CdS quantum dots (QDs). A size-selective photoetching process and a surface modification technique with a Cd(OH)2 layer enabled the preparation of size-controlled CdS QDs with high PL efficiency. The Stokes shift of the defect-related PL band before and after the surface modification was ∼1.0 eV and ∼0.63 eV, respectively. This difference in the Stokes shifts suggests that the origin of the defect-related PL band was changed by the surface modification. Analysis by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy revealed that the surface of the CdS QDs before and after the surface modification was S rich and Cd rich, respectively. These results suggest that Cd-vacancy acceptors and S-vacancy donors affect PL processes in CdS QDs before and after the surface modification, respectively.

Impact of acid and oxidative modifications, single or dual, of sorghum starch on biodegradable films.

PubMed

Biduski, Bárbara; Silva, Francine Tavares da; Silva, Wyller Max da; Halal, Shanise Lisie de Mello El; Pinto, Vania Zanella; Dias, Alvaro Renato Guerra; Zavareze, Elessandra da Rosa

2017-01-01

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of acid and oxidation modifications on sorghum starch, as well as the effect of dual modification of starch on the physical, morphological, mechanical, and barrier properties of biodegradable films. The acid modification was performed with 3% lactic acid and the oxidation was performed with 1.5% active chlorine. For dual modification, the acid modification was performed first, followed by oxidation under the same conditions as above. Both films of the oxidized starches, single and dual, had increased stiffness, providing a higher tensile strength and lower elongation when compared to films based on native and single acid modified starches. However, the dual modification increased the water vapor permeability of the films without changing their solubility. The increase in sorghum starch concentration in the filmogenic solution increased the thickness, water vapor permeability, and elongation of the films. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Predictors of financial difficulties and work modifications among cancer survivors in the United States.

PubMed

Whitney, Robin L; Bell, Janice F; Reed, Sarah C; Lash, Rebecca; Bold, Richard J; Kim, Katherine K; Davis, Andra; Copenhaver, David; Joseph, Jill G

2016-04-01

The aim of this study is to examine predictors of cancer-related financial difficulties and work modifications in a national sample of cancer survivors. Using the 2011 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey and Experiences with Cancer Survivorship Supplement, the prevalence of financial difficulties and work modifications was examined. Logistic regression and survey weights were used to model these outcomes as functions of sociodemographic and health covariates separately among survivors in active treatment and survivors under age 65 years. Among all survivors, 33.2% reported any financial concern, with 17.9% reporting financial difficulties such as debt or bankruptcy. Among working survivors, 44.0% made any work modification and 15.3% made long-term work modifications (e.g., delayed or early retirement). Among those in active treatment, predictors of financial difficulty included: race/ethnicity other than white, non-Hispanic [OR = 8.0; 95% CI 2.2-28.4]; income <200% of federal poverty level (FPL) [OR = 15.7; 95% CI 2.6-95.2] or between 200 and 400% of FPL [OR = 8.2; 95% CI 1.3-51.4]; residence in a non-metropolitan service area [OR = 6.4; 95% CI 1.6-25.0]; and good/fair/poor self-rated health [OR = 3.8; 95% CI 1.0-14.2]. Among survivors under age 65 years, predictors of long-term work modifications included good/fair/poor self-rated health [OR = 4.1; 95% CI 1.6-10.2], being married [OR = 2.2; 95% CI 1.0-4.7], uninsured [OR = 3.5; 95% CI 1.3-9.3], or publicly insured [OR = 9.0; 95% CI 3.3-24.4]. A substantial proportion of cancer survivors experience cancer-related financial difficulties and work modifications, particularly those who report race/ethnicity other than white, non-Hispanic, residence in non-metropolitan areas, worse health status, lower income, and public or no health insurance. Attention to the economic impact of cancer treatment is warranted across the survivorship trajectory, with particular attention to subgroups at higher risk.

Neo-yoke repair for severe hypospadias: A simple modification for better outcome.

PubMed

Seleim, Hamed M; Morsi, Hani; Elbarbary, Mohamed M

2017-06-01

Although staged repair for reconstructing severe hypospadias is more popular, various one-stage repairs have been attempted. Koyanagi repair (parameatal-based and fully extended circumferential foreskin flap urethroplasty) has enabled correction of severe hypospadias in one stage. However, its un-acceptably high incidence of complications has initiated a series of technical modifications, including the "yoke" repair. To retrospectively analyze the outcome of a proposed modification of the originally described yoke repair, for patients with severe hypospadias. This modification was developed to reduce complications. Over 4 years (between Jan 2011 and Jan 2015), all cases of severe hypospadias were included in this study; except those with prior attempts at repair, circumcised cases, and cases with severe hypogonadism - because of partial androgen insensitivity - not responding to hormonal manipulations. The make-up of the neo-urethra in this modification is the urethral plate with its spongiosal tissue proximally, a circum-coronal preputial pedicled flap in the middle, and an incorporated part of the augmented preputial flap and the preserved V-shaped glanular urethra, distally. Close postoperative follow-up was conducted to investigate the outcome. Thirty-one children with a median age of 32.48 months had repair of severe hypospadias using the neo-yoke technique. After a median follow-up of 26.7 months, the overall complication rate was 16.1%. Four children developed urethrocutaneous fistula (12.9%). Meatal drop-back occurred in one case (3.2%). No meatal stenosis or urethral sacculation was detected during follow-up of the studied group. Almost all cases had cosmetically appealing outlook. Single-staged repair of severe hypospadias using parameatal foreskin-based urethroplasty has passed through different modifications, all aimed at optimizing the outcome (Table). Neo-yoke repair for severe hypospadias is a natural development of established one-stage techniques, which resulted in better mid-term outcomes. However, an extended study is needed to declare the long-term results. Copyright © 2017 Journal of Pediatric Urology Company. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

18 CFR 725.3 - Applicability.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... EXECUTIVE ORDERS 11988, FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT AND 11990, PROTECTION OF WETLANDS Introduction § 725.3... result in the long- or short-term adverse impacts associated with: (a) The occupancy or modification of...

Surface modification of an amorphous Si thin film crystallized by a linearly polarized Nd:YAG pulse laser beam

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

Horita, Susumu; Kaki, Hirokazu; Nishioka, Kensuke

2007-07-01

Amorphous Si films of 60 and 10 nm thick on glass substrates were irradiated by a linearly polarized Nd:YAG pulse laser with the wavelength {lambda}=532 nm at the incident angle {theta}{sub i}=0. The surface of the irradiated 60-nm-thick film had both periodic ridges perpendicular to the electric field vector E and aperiodic ridges roughly parallel to E, where the spatial period of the periodic ridges was almost {lambda}. From the continuous 10-nm-thick film, the separate rectangular Si islands were formed with a periodic distance of {lambda}, with the edges parallel or perpendicular to E. When {theta}{sub i} was increased frommore » normal incidence of the s-polarized beam for a 60-nm-thick film, the aperiodic ridges were reduced while the periodic ridges were still formed. For a 10-nm-thick film, the Si stripes were formed perpendicular to E, using the s-polarized beam at {theta}{sub i}=12 deg. In order to investigate the mechanisms of the surface modifications of, in particular, aperiodic ridges, islands, and stripes, we improved the previous theoretical model of the periodic distribution of the beam energy density (periodic E-D) generated by irradiation of the linearly polarized laser beam, taking account of the multireflection effect in the Si film which is semitransparent for {lambda}. Further, the calculated E-D was corrected with respect to the thermal diffusion in the irradiated Si film. The calculation results show that the two-dimensional E-D consists of a constant or a dc term and a sinusoidal or an ac term which contains various spatial periods. The multireflection effect strongly influences the amplitude and phase of every ac term, which means that the amplitude and phase depend on the film thickness. The thermal diffusion during the heating of the irradiated film greatly reduces the amplitudes of the ac terms with periods below the thermal diffusion length. The theoretical calculation showed that, by increasing {theta}{sub i}, the temperature distribution in the irradiated Si film was changed from two-dimensional toward one-dimensional, which can explain the above experimental results reasonably.« less

Assessment of inceptisols soil quality following long-term cropping in a calcareous environment.

PubMed

Rezapour, Salar; Samadi, A

2012-03-01

The combination of morphological, clay mineralogy, physicochemical, and fertilitical properties of inceptisols were compared for monitoring soil quality response following long-term agricultural activities. For this target, fifty-nine paired surface soils belonging to five subgroups of inceptisols from the major sugar beet growing area and the adjoining virgin lands were described, sampled, and analyzed. The soils were alkaline and calcareous as characterized by high pH, ranging from 7.2 to 8, and calcium carbonate equivalent, ranging from 60 to 300 g kg(-1). Following long-term sugar beet cultivation, morphological properties modifications were reflected as weakening of structure, hardening of consistency, and brightening of soil color. Although, the quantity of clay minerals did not significantly change through long-term cropping, some modifications in the XRD pattern of illite and smectite were observed in the cultivated soils compared to the adjoining virgin lands mainly as a result of potassium depletion. Without significant variation, sand content decreased by 4-55% and silt and clay increased by 3-22% and 2-15%, respectively, in the cultivated soils than to that of the virgin lands. Both negative and positive aspects of soil quality were reflected regarding soil chemical and fertilitical properties and the role of negative effects far exceeded the role of positive effects. Typic calcixerepts was known to be more degraded through a significant decrease (P ≤ 0.001) in mean value of soil organic carbon (a drop of 24%), total N (a drop of 23%), available K (a drop of 42%), exchangeable K (a drop of 45%), potassium adsorption ratio and potassium saturation ratio (a drop of 44% and 42%, respectively) and a significant increase (P ≤ 0.001) in EC (a rise of 53%). Soil quality index, calculated based on nine soil properties [coarse fragments, pH, SOC, total N, ESP, exchangeable cations (Ca, Mg, and K), and available phosphorus], indicated that 60% of the all soil types studied had negative changes, 20% had positive changes, and 20% produced no changes in soil heath.

Lifestyle intervention and anti-obesity therapies in the polycystic ovary syndrome: impact on metabolism and fertility.

PubMed

Panidis, Dimitrios; Tziomalos, Konstantinos; Papadakis, Efstathios; Vosnakis, Christos; Chatzis, Panagiotis; Katsikis, Ilias

2013-12-01

Obesity is frequently present in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and plays an important role in the pathogenesis of the metabolic, endocrine, and reproductive abnormalities associated with this syndrome. We aimed to summarize the effects of lifestyle changes and anti-obesity pharmacotherapy in patients with PCOS. We reviewed the literature regarding the effects of lifestyle changes and anti-obesity agents on the metabolic and endocrine abnormalities of PCOS. Lifestyle changes, including diet, exercise, and behavioral modification, appear to improve the metabolic and reproductive abnormalities of overweight and obese patients with PCOS. Therefore, lifestyle changes appear to represent the first-line management for all overweight and obese patients with PCOS. However, the optimal composition of diet and the optimal type of exercise in these patients are unknown. Anti-obesity agents that have been studied in PCOS include orlistat, sibutramine, and rimonabant. However, the latter two agents have been withdrawn from the market because of side effects. Long-term studies with orlistat in overweight and obese diabetic patients showed greater weight loss and metabolic and cardiovascular benefits than those achieved with lifestyle changes alone. However, there are limited data on the efficacy of orlistat in women with PCOS. In conclusion, lifestyle changes (diet, exercise and behavioral modification), particularly when combined with anti-obesity agents, exert beneficial effects on the endocrine abnormalities of obese patients with PCOS and improve metabolic parameters.

Effects of an Inquiry-Based Short Intervention on State Test Anxiety in Comparison to Alternative Coping Strategies

PubMed Central

Krispenz, Ann; Dickhäuser, Oliver

2018-01-01

Background and Objectives: Test anxiety can have undesirable consequences for learning and academic achievement. The control-value theory of achievement emotions assumes that test anxiety is experienced if a student appraises an achievement situation as important (value appraisal), but feels that the situation and its outcome are not fully under his or her control (control appraisal). Accordingly, modification of cognitive appraisals is assumed to reduce test anxiety. One method aiming at the modification of appraisals is inquiry-based stress reduction. In the present study (N = 162), we assessed the effects of an inquiry-based short intervention on test anxiety. Design: Short-term longitudinal, randomized control trial. Methods: Focusing on an individual worry thought, 53 university students received an inquiry-based short intervention. Control participants reflected on their worry thought (n = 55) or were distracted (n = 52). Thought related test anxiety was assessed before, immediately after, and 2 days after the experimental treatment. Results: After the intervention as well as 2 days later, individuals who had received the inquiry-based intervention demonstrated significantly lower test anxiety than participants from the pooled control groups. Further analyses showed that the inquiry-based short intervention was more effective than reflecting on a worry thought but had no advantage over distraction. Conclusions: Our findings provide first experimental evidence for the effectiveness of an inquiry-based short intervention in reducing students’ test anxiety. PMID:29515507

Ambulatory Voice Biofeedback: Relative Frequency and Summary Feedback Effects on Performance and Retention of Reduced Vocal Intensity in the Daily Lives of Participants With Normal Voices

PubMed Central

Mehta, Daryush D.; Sternad, Dagmar; Petit, Robert; Hillman, Robert E.

2017-01-01

Purpose Ambulatory voice biofeedback has the potential to significantly improve voice therapy effectiveness by targeting carryover of desired behaviors outside the therapy session (i.e., retention). This study applies motor learning concepts (reduced frequency and delayed, summary feedback) that demonstrate increased retention to ambulatory voice monitoring for training nurses to talk softer during work hours. Method Forty-eight nurses with normal voices wore the Voice Health Monitor (Mehta, Zañartu, Feng, Cheyne, & Hillman, 2012) for 6 days: 3 baseline days, 1 biofeedback day, 1 short-term retention day, and 1 long-term retention day. Participants were block-randomized into 3 different biofeedback groups: 100%, 25%, and Summary. Performance was measured in terms of compliance time below a participant-specific vocal intensity threshold. Results All participants exhibited a significant increase in compliance time (Cohen's d = 4.5) during biofeedback days compared with baseline days. The Summary feedback group exhibited statistically smaller performance reduction during both short-term (d = 1.14) and long-term (d = 1.04) retention days compared with the 100% feedback group. Conclusions These findings suggest that modifications in feedback frequency and timing affect retention of a modified vocal behavior in daily life. Future work calls for studying the potential beneficial impact of ambulatory voice biofeedback in participants with behaviorally based voice disorders. PMID:28329366

Effects of food texture change on metabolic parameters: short- and long-term feeding patterns and body weight.

PubMed

Labouré, H; Saux, S; Nicolaidis, S

2001-03-01

A complete diet was prepared with cooked pieces of meat, beans, cream starch, and water and presented to the rats in two different textures: a blended purée and a rough mixture that required a lot of chewing. We hypothesized that this texture modification might change both anticipatory reflexes and feeding behavior. Feeding rate, meal size, intermeal intervals, and their correlation were monitored in response to each texture. The long-term (6 wk) effect on body weight was assessed. Periprandial plasma glucose, insulin, glucagon, and lipid concentrations were assayed. Whole and background metabolism, respiratory quotient, and locomotion were measured using a computerized calorimeter of original design. In the short term, rats preferred the mixture. However, after 3 wk, they ingested more purée than mixture and gained more body weight per gram of food ingested as purée. Insulin response declined earlier with the mixture. During meals, glycerol and free fatty acid increased earlier with purée, whereas in the postprandial period, glycerol increased earlier with mixture. The metabolic rate, however, was not significantly affected. We concluded that texture, an everyday manipulation performed on food for human consumption, affects not only palatability of ingestants but also their metabolic management in the short and long term.

Ecological Effects of Weather Modification: A Problem Analysis.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cooper, Charles F.; Jolly, William C.

This publication reviews the potential hazards to the environment of weather modification techniques as they eventually become capable of producing large scale weather pattern modifications. Such weather modifications could result in ecological changes which would generally require several years to be fully evident, including the alteration of…

Solid-Phase Synthesis of Difficult Purine-Rich PNAs through Selective Hmb Incorporation: Application to the Total Synthesis of Cell Penetrating Peptide-PNAs

PubMed Central

Tailhades, Julien; Takizawa, Hotake; Gait, Michael J.; Wellings, Don A.; Wade, John D.; Aoki, Yoshitsugu; Shabanpoor, Fazel

2017-01-01

Antisense oligonucleotide (ASO)-based drug development is gaining significant momentum following the recent FDA approval of Eteplirsen (an ASO based on phosphorodiamidate morpholino) and Spinraza (2′-O-methoxyethyl-phosphorothioate) in late 2016. Their attractiveness is mainly due to the backbone modifications which have improved the in vivo characteristics of oligonucleotide drugs. Another class of ASO, based on peptide nucleic acid (PNA) chemistry, is also gaining popularity as a platform for development of gene-specific therapy for various disorders. However, the chemical synthesis of long PNAs, which are more target-specific, remains an ongoing challenge. Most of the reported methodology for the solid-phase synthesis of PNA suffer from poor coupling efficiency which limits production to short PNA sequences of less than 15 residues. Here, we have studied the effect of backbone modifications with Hmb (2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzyl) and Dmb (2,4-dimethoxybenzyl) to ameliorate difficult couplings and reduce “on-resin” aggregation. We firstly synthesized a library of PNA dimers incorporating either Hmb or Dmb and identified that Hmb is superior to Dmb in terms of its ease of removal. Subsequently, we used Hmb backbone modification to synthesize a 22-mer purine-rich PNA, targeting dystrophin RNA splicing, which could not be synthesized by standard coupling methodology. Hmb backbone modification allowed this difficult PNA to be synthesized as well as to be continued to include a cell-penetrating peptide on the same solid support. This approach provides a novel and straightforward strategy for facile solid-phase synthesis of difficult purine-rich PNA sequences. PMID:29094037

Solid-Phase Synthesis of Difficult Purine-Rich PNAs through Selective Hmb Incorporation: Application to the Total Synthesis of Cell Penetrating Peptide-PNAs.

PubMed

Tailhades, Julien; Takizawa, Hotake; Gait, Michael J; Wellings, Don A; Wade, John D; Aoki, Yoshitsugu; Shabanpoor, Fazel

2017-01-01

Antisense oligonucleotide (ASO)-based drug development is gaining significant momentum following the recent FDA approval of Eteplirsen (an ASO based on phosphorodiamidate morpholino) and Spinraza (2'- O -methoxyethyl-phosphorothioate) in late 2016. Their attractiveness is mainly due to the backbone modifications which have improved the in vivo characteristics of oligonucleotide drugs. Another class of ASO, based on peptide nucleic acid (PNA) chemistry, is also gaining popularity as a platform for development of gene-specific therapy for various disorders. However, the chemical synthesis of long PNAs, which are more target-specific, remains an ongoing challenge. Most of the reported methodology for the solid-phase synthesis of PNA suffer from poor coupling efficiency which limits production to short PNA sequences of less than 15 residues. Here, we have studied the effect of backbone modifications with Hmb (2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzyl) and Dmb (2,4-dimethoxybenzyl) to ameliorate difficult couplings and reduce "on-resin" aggregation. We firstly synthesized a library of PNA dimers incorporating either Hmb or Dmb and identified that Hmb is superior to Dmb in terms of its ease of removal. Subsequently, we used Hmb backbone modification to synthesize a 22-mer purine-rich PNA, targeting dystrophin RNA splicing, which could not be synthesized by standard coupling methodology. Hmb backbone modification allowed this difficult PNA to be synthesized as well as to be continued to include a cell-penetrating peptide on the same solid support. This approach provides a novel and straightforward strategy for facile solid-phase synthesis of difficult purine-rich PNA sequences.

Solid-phase synthesis of difficult purine-rich PNAs through selective Hmb incorporation: Application to the total synthesis of cell penetrating peptide-PNAs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tailhades, Julien; Takizawa, Hotake; Gait, Michael J.; Wellings, Don A.; Wade, John D.; Aoki, Yoshitsugu; Shabanpoor, Fazel

2017-10-01

Antisense oligonucleotide (ASO)-based drug development is gaining significant momentum following the recent FDA approval of Eteplirsen (an ASO based on phosphorodiamidate morpholino) and Spinraza (2’-O-methoxyethyl-phosphorothioate) in late 2016. Their attractiveness is mainly due to the backbone modifications which have improved the in vivo characteristics of oligonucleotide drugs. Another class of ASO, based on peptide nucleic acid (PNA) chemistry, is also gaining popularity as a platform for development of gene-specific therapy for various disorders. However, the chemical synthesis of long PNAs, which are more target-specific, remains an ongoing challenge. Most of the reported methodology for the solid-phase synthesis of PNA suffer from poor coupling efficiency which limits production to short PNA sequences of less than 15 residues. Here we have studied the effect of backbone modifications with Hmb (2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzyl) and Dmb (2,4-dimethoxybenzyl) to ameliorate difficult couplings and reduce “on-resin” aggregation. We firstly synthesized a library of PNA dimers incorporating either Hmb or Dmb and identified that Hmb is superior to Dmb in terms of its ease of removal. Subsequently, we used Hmb backbone modification to synthesize a 22-mer purine-rich PNA, targeting dystrophin RNA splicing, which could not be synthesized by standard coupling methodology. Hmb backbone modification allowed this difficult PNA to be synthesized as well as to be continued to include a cell-penetrating peptide on the same solid support. This approach provides a novel and straightforward strategy for facile solid-phase synthesis of difficult purine-rich PNA sequences.

Immediate and long-term transcriptional response of hind muscle tissue to transient variation of incubation temperature in broilers.

PubMed

Naraballobh, Watcharapong; Trakooljul, Nares; Muráni, Eduard; Brunner, Ronald; Krischek, Carsten; Janisch, Sabine; Wicke, Michael; Ponsuksili, Siriluck; Wimmers, Klaus

2016-05-04

In oviparous species accidental variation of incubation temperatures may occur under natural conditions and mechanisms may have evolved by natural selection that facilitate coping with these stressors. However, under controlled artificial incubation modification of egg incubation temperature has been shown to have a wide-ranging impact on post-hatch development in several poultry species. Because developmental changes initiated in-ovo can affect poultry production, understanding the molecular routes and epigenetic alterations induced by incubation temperature differences may allow targeted modification of phenotypes. In order to identify molecular pathways responsive to variable incubation temperature, broiler eggs were incubated at a lower or higher temperature (36.8 °C, 38.8 °C) relative to control (37.8 °C) over two developmental intervals, embryonic days (E) 7-10 and 10-13. Global gene expression of M. gastrocnemius was assayed at E10, E13, and slaughter age [post-hatch day (D) 35] (6 groups; 3 time points; 8 animals each) by microarray analysis and treated samples were compared to controls within each time point. Transcript abundance differed for between 113 and 738 genes, depending on treatment group, compared to the respective control. In particular, higher incubation temperature during E7-10 immediately affected pathways involved in energy and lipid metabolism, cell signaling, and muscle development more so than did other conditions. But lower incubation temperature during E10-13 affected pathways related to cellular function and growth, and development of organ, tissue, and muscle as well as nutrient metabolism pathways at D35. Shifts in incubation temperature provoke specific immediate and long-term transcriptional responses. Further, the transcriptional response to lower incubation temperature, which did not affect the phenotypes, mediates compensatory effects reflecting adaptability. In contrast, higher incubation temperature triggers gene expression and has long-term effects on the phenotype, reflecting considerable phenotypic plasticity.

Effects of a lifestyle programme on ambulatory blood pressure and drug dosage in treated hypertensive patients: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Burke, Valerie; Beilin, Lawrie J; Cutt, Hayley E; Mansour, Jacqueline; Wilson, Amy; Mori, Trevor A

2005-06-01

To assess effects of multifactorial lifestyle modification on antihypertensive drug needs in treated hypertensive individuals. Randomized controlled trial. Research studies unit. Overweight hypertensive patients, receiving one or two antihypertensive drugs, were recruited by advertising, and allocated randomly to a usual care group (controls; n = 118) or a lifestyle modification group (programme group; n = 123). A 4-month programme of weight loss, a low-sodium 'Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension'-type diet with added fish, physical activity and moderation of alcohol intake. After 4 months, if mean 24-h ambulatory blood pressure (ABP) was less than 135/85 mmHg, antihypertensive drugs were withdrawn over 4 weeks and long-term home blood pressure monitoring was begun. Antihypertensive drug requirements, ABP, weight, waist girth at 4 months and 1-year follow-up. Ninety control group and 102 programme group participants completed the study. Mean 24-h ABP changed after 4 months by -1.0/-0.3 +/- 0.5/0.4 mmHg in controls and -4.1/-2.1 +/- 0.7/0.5 mmHg with the lifestyle programme (P < 0.01). At follow-up, changes in the two groups were not significantly different (4.1/1.3 +/- 1.1/1.0 mmHg in controls; 2.5/-0.1 +/- 1.1/0.8 mmHg in the programme group; P = 0.73). At 4 months, drug withdrawal differed significantly between the groups (P = 0.038) in men (control 44%; programme 66%) but not in women (65 and 64%, respectively; P = 0.964). At follow-up, sex-related differences were not significant, and 41% in the control group and 43% in the programme group maintained drug-withdrawal status. With the programme, net weight loss was 3.3 kg (P < 0.001) at 4 months and 3.0 kg (P < 0.001) at follow-up; respective net decreases in waist girth were 3.3 cm (P < 0.001) and 3.5 cm (P < 0.001). A 4-month multifactorial lifestyle modification in patients with treated hypertension reduced blood pressure in the short-term. Decreased central obesity persisted 1 year later and could reduce overall cardiovascular risk.

78 FR 18445 - Historically Black College and University (HBCU) Capital Financing Program; Modification of Terms...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-03-26

... conditions of loans made to the following four institutions affected by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita under the... affected by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. The special loan terms included, but were not limited to... Federal Government. The three agencies have determined that, due to the impact of Hurricanes Katrina and...

77 FR 68194 - Self-Regulatory Organizations; NYSE MKT LLC; Order Granting Approval of Proposed Rule Change, as...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-11-15

... Available Under the Short Term Option Series Program (``STOS Program''), To Allow for the Exchange To Delist... Program Under Limited Circumstances November 8, 2012. I. Introduction On September 6, 2012, NYSE MKT LLC... make certain modifications to the Exchange's Short Term Option Series Program (``STOS Program''). The...

22 CFR 201.71 - Terms of letters of credit.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... shall not be inconsistent with or contrary to the terms of the letter of commitment. Any such letter of credit or agreement may be modified or extended at any time in such a manner and to such extent as is acceptable to the approved applicant and the bank: Provided, That such modification or extension may not be...

25 CFR 700.715 - Assignment, modification, and cancellation of grazing permits.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... permit and may be transferred with the term permit if the transferee signs the range unit management plan... not be transferred and shall be null and void if the term permit transferee does not sign the... § 700.711. (d) Grazing permits must be transferred in whole to a single transferee—the transferor...

25 CFR 700.715 - Assignment, modification, and cancellation of grazing permits.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... permit and may be transferred with the term permit if the transferee signs the range unit management plan... not be transferred and shall be null and void if the term permit transferee does not sign the... § 700.711. (d) Grazing permits must be transferred in whole to a single transferee—the transferor...

Proteome modification in tomato plants upon long-term aluminum treatment

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

This study aimed to identify the aluminum (Al)-induced proteomes in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum, “Micro-Tom”) after long-term exposure to the stress factor. Plants were treated in Magnavaca’s solution (pH 4.5) supplemented with 7.5 uM Al3+ ion activity over a 4 month period beginning at the emergen...

Overweight and obesity: effectiveness of interventions in adults.

PubMed

Gómez Puente, Juana María; Martínez-Marcos, Mercedes

To identify the most effective interventions in overweight and obese adults. A narrative review through a search of the literature in databases PubMed, Cochrane, Joanna Briggs Institute, EMBASE, Cuiden y Cinahl with free and controlled language (MeSH terms) using Boolean operators AND and NOT. The research was limited to articles published between 2007 and 2015. Eighteen articles were selected based on the established inclusion and exclusion criteria. Different types of interventions were identified based on the modification of lifestyles, mainly diet, physical activity and behavior. Major differences were found in specific content, degree of intensity of interventions, time tracking and elements evaluated. Most of studies found statistically significant weight loss but this was limited in terms of weight and number of people. Web-based interventions have no uniform effect on weight loss but achieve similar levels to face-to-face interventions in maintaining weight loss. The combination of personalised diet, exercise and cognitive behavioural therapy is the most effective form of intervention in overweight and obesity. There is insufficient data to indicate whether group or individual interventions are more effective. Online intervention allows greater accessibility and lower cost. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Methodological guidelines for developing accident modification functions.

PubMed

Elvik, Rune

2015-07-01

This paper proposes methodological guidelines for developing accident modification functions. An accident modification function is a mathematical function describing systematic variation in the effects of road safety measures. The paper describes ten guidelines. An example is given of how to use the guidelines. The importance of exploratory analysis and an iterative approach in developing accident modification functions is stressed. The example shows that strict compliance with all the guidelines may be difficult, but represents a level of stringency that should be strived for. Currently the main limitations in developing accident modification functions are the small number of good evaluation studies and the often huge variation in estimates of effect. It is therefore still not possible to develop accident modification functions for very many road safety measures. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

An Investigation of the Aerodynamic Characteristics of an 0.08-Scale Model of the Chance Vought XF7U-1 Airplane in the Langley High-Speed 7- by 10-Foot Tunnel. Part V - Wing-Alone Tests and Effect of Modifications to the Vertical Fins, Speed Brakes, and Fuselage TED No. NACA DE308. Part V; Wing-Alone Tests and Effect of Modifications to the Vertical Fins, Speed Brakes, and Fuselage, TED No. NACA DE308

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kuhri, Richard E.; Myers, Boyd C., II

1947-01-01

Tests have been conducted in the Langley high-speed 7- by 10-foot tunnel over a Mach number range from 0.40 to 0.91 to determine the stability and control characteristics of an 0.08-scale model of the Chance Vought XF7U-1 airplane. The wing-alone tests and the effect of the various vertical-fin modifications, speed-brake modifications, and fuselage modifications on the aerodynamic characteristics in pitch and yaw are presented in the present paper with a limited analysis of the results. Also included are tuft studies of the flow for some of the modifications tested.

Dissociation of heavy quarkonium in hot QCD medium in a quasiparticle model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Agotiya, Vineet Kumar; Chandra, Vinod; Jamal, M. Yousuf; Nilima, Indrani

2016-11-01

Following a recent work on the effective description of the equations of state for hot QCD obtained from a hard thermal loop expression for the gluon self-energy, in terms of the quasigluons and quasiquarks and antiquarks with respective effective fugacities, the dissociation process of heavy quarkonium in hot QCD medium has been investigated. This has been done by investigating the medium modification to a heavy quark potential. The medium-modified potential has a quite different form (a long-range Coulomb tail in addition to the usual Yukawa term) in contrast to the usual picture of Debye screening. The flavor dependence binding energies of the heavy quarkonia states and the dissociation temperature have been obtained by employing the Debye mass for pure gluonic and full QCD case computed employing the quasiparticle picture. Thus, estimated dissociation patterns of the charmonium and bottomonium states, considering Debye mass from different approaches in the pure gluonic case and full QCD, have shown good agreement with the other potential model studies.

Ruxolitinib: long-term management of patients with myelofibrosis and future directions in the treatment of myeloproliferative neoplasms.

PubMed

Yacoub, A; Odenike, O; Verstovsek, S

2014-12-01

Considerable clinical experience regarding the long-term efficacy and safety of ruxolitinib has been gathered since the drug was approved in the USA for patients with intermediate or high-risk myelofibrosis (MF) in November 2011. Findings from the pivotal phase 3 COMFORT studies showed that ruxolitinib-associated reductions in MF-related splenomegaly and symptom burden occur rapidly and in the majority of patients. Two- and 3-year follow-up data further suggest that the benefits of ruxolitinib are durable and associated with a survival advantage compared with conventional therapies. However, careful management of treatment-related thrombocytopenia and anemia with dose modifications and supportive care is critical to allow chronic therapy. Based on preliminary evidence, ruxolitinib also allows spleen size and symptom reduction before allogeneic stem cell transplantation without negative effect on engraftment or outcomes. In recent studies, ruxolitinib provided effective management of hematologic parameters and symptoms in patients with polycythemia vera refractory to or intolerant of hydroxyurea.

A controlled double-duration inducible gene expression system for cartilage tissue engineering.

PubMed

Ma, Ying; Li, Junxiang; Yao, Yi; Wei, Daixu; Wang, Rui; Wu, Qiong

2016-05-25

Cartilage engineering that combines competent seeding cells and a compatible scaffold is increasingly gaining popularity and is potentially useful for the treatment of various bone and cartilage diseases. Intensive efforts have been made by researchers to improve the viability and functionality of seeding cells of engineered constructs that are implanted into damaged cartilage. Here, we designed an integrative system combining gene engineering and the controlled-release concept to solve the problems of both seeding cell viability and functionality through precisely regulating the anti-apoptotic gene bcl-2 in the short-term and the chondrogenic master regulator Sox9 in the long-term. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated that our system enhances the cell viability and chondrogenic effects of the engineered scaffold after introduction of the system while restricting anti-apoptotic gene expression to only the early stage, thereby preventing potential oncogenic and overdose effects. Our system was designed to be modular and can also be readily adapted to other tissue engineering applications with minor modification.

Bariatric Left Gastric Artery Embolization for the Treatment of Obesity: A Review of Gut Hormone Involvement in Energy Homeostasis.

PubMed

Anton, Kevin; Rahman, Tariq; Bhanushali, Ashok; Patel, Aalpen A

2016-01-01

The global population is becoming more overweight and obese, leading to increases in associated morbidity and mortality rates. Advances in catheter-directed embolotherapy offer the potential for the interventional radiologist to make a contribution to weight loss. Left gastric artery embolization reduces the supply of blood to the gastric fundus and decreases serum levels of ghrelin. Early evidence suggests that this alteration in gut hormone balance leads to changes in energy homeostasis and weight reduction. The pathophysiologic findings and current evidence associated with the use of left gastric artery embolization are reviewed. The prevalence of obesity continues to increase at an alarming rate, and, thus far, advances in medical management have been relatively ineffective in slowing this trend. Lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise are effective initially, but most patients regain the weight in the long term. Bariatric surgery is the most effective strategy for achieving long-term weight loss; however, as with all surgical procedures, it has potential complications.

7 CFR 1724.21 - Architectural services contracts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... the architect furnishes or obtains all architectural services related to the design and construction management of the facilities. (c) Reasonable modifications or additions to the terms and conditions in the...

7 CFR 1724.21 - Architectural services contracts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... the architect furnishes or obtains all architectural services related to the design and construction management of the facilities. (c) Reasonable modifications or additions to the terms and conditions in the...

7 CFR 1724.21 - Architectural services contracts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... the architect furnishes or obtains all architectural services related to the design and construction management of the facilities. (c) Reasonable modifications or additions to the terms and conditions in the...

7 CFR 1724.21 - Architectural services contracts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... the architect furnishes or obtains all architectural services related to the design and construction management of the facilities. (c) Reasonable modifications or additions to the terms and conditions in the...

Effectiveness of a weight loss intervention in postpartum women: results from a randomized controlled trial in primary health care.

PubMed

Huseinovic, Ena; Bertz, Fredrik; Leu Agelii, Monica; Hellebö Johansson, Else; Winkvist, Anna; Brekke, Hilde Kristin

2016-08-01

Reproduction has been identified as an important factor for long-term weight gain among women. A previous efficacy trial has successfully produced postpartum weight loss; however, the effectiveness of this intervention needs to be established. This study was designed to evaluate the short- and long-term effectiveness of a diet behavior modification treatment to produce weight loss in postpartum women within the primary health care setting in Sweden. During 2011-2014, 110 women with a self-reported body mass index (BMI; in kg/m(2)) of ≥27 at 6-15 wk postpartum were randomly assigned to the diet behavior modification group (D group) or the control group (C group). Women randomly assigned to the D group (n = 54) received a structured 12-wk diet behavior modification treatment by a dietitian and were instructed to gradually implement a diet plan based on the Nordic Nutrition Recommendations and to self-weigh ≥3 times/wk. Women randomly assigned to the C group (n = 56) were given a brochure on healthy eating. The primary outcome was change in body weight after 12 wk and 1 y. The retention rate was 91% and 85% at 12 wk and 1 y, respectively. At baseline, women had a median (1st, 3rd quartile) BMI of 31.0 (28.8, 33.6), and 84% were breastfeeding. After 12 wk, median weight change in the D group was -6.1 kg (-8.4, -3.2 kg) compared with -1.6 kg (-3.5, -0.4 kg) in the C group (P < 0.001). The difference was maintained at the 1-y follow-up for the D group, -10.0 kg (-11.7, -5.9 kg) compared with -4.3 kg (-10.2, -1.0 kg) in the C group (P = 0.004). In addition, the D group reduced BMI, waist circumference, hip circumference, and body fat percentage more than did the C group at both 12 wk and 1 y (all P < 0.05). A low-intensity diet treatment delivered by a dietitian within the primary health care setting can produce clinically relevant and sustainable weight loss in postpartum women with overweight and obesity. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01949558. © 2016 American Society for Nutrition.

Additive Effects of Millimeter Waves and 2-Deoxyglucose Co-Exposure on the Human Keratinocyte Transcriptome.

PubMed

Soubere Mahamoud, Yonis; Aite, Meziane; Martin, Catherine; Zhadobov, Maxim; Sauleau, Ronan; Le Dréan, Yves; Habauzit, Denis

2016-01-01

Millimeter Waves (MMW) will be used in the next-generation of high-speed wireless technologies, especially in future Ultra-Broadband small cells in 5G cellular networks. Therefore, their biocompatibilities must be evaluated prior to their massive deployment. Using a microarray-based approach, we analyzed modifications to the whole genome of a human keratinocyte model that was exposed at 60.4 GHz-MMW at an incident power density (IPD) of 20 mW/cm2 for 3 hours in athermic conditions. No keratinocyte transcriptome modifications were observed. We tested the effects of MMWs on cell metabolism by co-treating MMW-exposed cells with a glycolysis inhibitor, 2-deoxyglucose (2dG, 20 mM for 3 hours), and whole genome expression was evaluated along with the ATP content. We found that the 2dG treatment decreased the cellular ATP content and induced a high modification in the transcriptome (632 coding genes). The affected genes were associated with transcriptional repression, cellular communication and endoplasmic reticulum homeostasis. The MMW/2dG co-treatment did not alter the keratinocyte ATP content, but it did slightly alter the transcriptome, which reflected the capacity of MMW to interfere with the bioenergetic stress response. The RT-PCR-based validation confirmed 6 MMW-sensitive genes (SOCS3, SPRY2, TRIB1, FAM46A, CSRNP1 and PPP1R15A) during the 2dG treatment. These 6 genes encoded transcription factors or inhibitors of cytokine pathways, which raised questions regarding the potential impact of long-term or chronic MMW exposure on metabolically stressed cells.

Online attention modification for social anxiety disorder: replication of a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Carleton, R Nicholas; Teale Sapach, Michelle J N; Oriet, Chris; LeBouthillier, Daniel M

2017-01-01

Social anxiety disorder (SAD) models posit vigilance for external social threat cues and exacerbated self-focused attention as key in disorder development and maintenance. Evidence indicates a modified dot-probe protocol may reduce symptoms of SAD; however, the efficacy when compared to a standard protocol and long-term maintenance of treatment gains remains unclear. Furthermore, the efficacy of such protocols on SAD-related constructs remains relatively unknown. The current investigation clarified these associations using a randomized control trial replicating and extending previous research. Participants with SAD (n = 113; 71% women) were randomized to complete a standard (i.e. control) or modified (i.e. active) dot-probe protocol consisting of 15-min sessions twice weekly for four weeks. Self-reported symptoms were measured at baseline, post-treatment, and 4-month and 8-month follow-ups. Hierarchical linear modeling indicated significant self-reported reductions in symptoms of social anxiety, fear of negative evaluation, trait anxiety, and depression, but no such reductions in fear of positive evaluation. Symptom changes did not differ based on condition and were maintained at 8-month follow-up. Attentional biases during the dot-probe task were not related to symptom change. Overall, our results replicate support for the efficacy of both protocols in reducing symptoms of SAD and specific related constructs, and suggest a role of exposure, expectancy, or practice effects, rather than attention modification, in effecting such reductions. The current results also support distinct relationships between fears of negative and positive evaluation and social anxiety. Further research focused on identifying the mechanisms of change in attention modification protocols appears warranted.

Broiler diet modification and litter storage: impacts on phosphorus in litters, soils, and runoff.

PubMed

McGrath, Joshua M; Sims, J Thomas; Maguire, Rory O; Saylor, William W; Angel, C Roselina; Turner, Benjamin L

2005-01-01

Modifying broiler diets to mitigate water quality concerns linked to excess phosphorus (P) in regions of intensive broiler production has recently increased. Our goals were to evaluate the effects of dietary modification, using phytase and reduced non-phytate phosphorus (NPP) supplementation, on P speciation in broiler litters, changes in litter P forms during long-term storage, and subsequent impacts of diets on P in runoff from litter-amended soils. Four diets containing two levels of NPP with and without phytase were fed to broilers in a three-flock floor pen study. After removal of the third flock, litters were stored for 440 d at their initial moisture content (MC; 24%) and at a MC of 40%. Litter P fractions and orthophosphate and phytate P concentrations were determined before and after storage. After storage, litters were incorporated with a sandy and silt loam and simulated rainfall was applied. Phytase and reduced dietary NPP significantly reduced litter total P. Reducing dietary NPP decreased water-extractable inorganic phosphorus (IP) and the addition of dietary phytase reduced NaOH- and HCl-extractable organic P in litter, which correlated well with orthophosphate and phytic acid measured by 31P nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), respectively. Although dry storage caused little change in P speciation, wet storage increased concentrations of water-soluble IP, which increased reactive P in runoff from litter-amended soils. Therefore, diet modification with phytase and reduced NPP could be effective in reducing P additions on a watershed scale. Moreover, efforts to minimize litter MC during storage may reduce the potential for dissolved P losses in runoff.

Optimized statistical parametric mapping procedure for NIRS data contaminated by motion artifacts : Neurometric analysis of body schema extension.

PubMed

Suzuki, Satoshi

2017-09-01

This study investigated the spatial distribution of brain activity on body schema (BS) modification induced by natural body motion using two versions of a hand-tracing task. In Task 1, participants traced Japanese Hiragana characters using the right forefinger, requiring no BS expansion. In Task 2, participants performed the tracing task with a long stick, requiring BS expansion. Spatial distribution was analyzed using general linear model (GLM)-based statistical parametric mapping of near-infrared spectroscopy data contaminated with motion artifacts caused by the hand-tracing task. Three methods were utilized in series to counter the artifacts, and optimal conditions and modifications were investigated: a model-free method (Step 1), a convolution matrix method (Step 2), and a boxcar-function-based Gaussian convolution method (Step 3). The results revealed four methodological findings: (1) Deoxyhemoglobin was suitable for the GLM because both Akaike information criterion and the variance against the averaged hemodynamic response function were smaller than for other signals, (2) a high-pass filter with a cutoff frequency of .014 Hz was effective, (3) the hemodynamic response function computed from a Gaussian kernel function and its first- and second-derivative terms should be included in the GLM model, and (4) correction of non-autocorrelation and use of effective degrees of freedom were critical. Investigating z-maps computed according to these guidelines revealed that contiguous areas of BA7-BA40-BA21 in the right hemisphere became significantly activated ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text], respectively) during BS modification while performing the hand-tracing task.

Magnetic Beads Enhance Adhesion of NIH 3T3 Fibroblasts: A Proof-of-Principle In Vitro Study for Implant-Mediated Long-Term Drug Delivery to the Inner Ear

PubMed Central

Aliuos, Pooyan; Schulze, Jennifer; Schomaker, Markus; Reuter, Günter; Stolle, Stefan R. O.; Werner, Darja; Ripken, Tammo; Lenarz, Thomas; Warnecke, Athanasia

2016-01-01

Introduction Long-term drug delivery to the inner ear may be achieved by functionalizing cochlear implant (CI) electrodes with cells providing neuroprotective factors. However, effective strategies in order to coat implant surfaces with cells need to be developed. Our vision is to make benefit of electromagnetic field attracting forces generated by CI electrodes to bind BDNF-secreting cells that are labelled with magnetic beads (MB) onto the electrode surfaces. Thus, the effect of MB-labelling on cell viability and BDNF production were investigated. Materials and Methods Murine NIH 3T3 fibroblasts—genetically modified to produce BDNF—were labelled with MB. Results Atomic force and bright field microscopy illustrated the internalization of MB by fibroblasts after 24 h of cultivation. Labelling cells with MB did not expose cytotoxic effects on fibroblasts and allowed adhesion on magnetic surfaces with sufficient BDNF release. Discussion Our data demonstrate a novel approach for mediating enhanced long-term adhesion of BDNF-secreting fibroblasts on model electrode surfaces for cell-based drug delivery applications in vitro and in vivo. This therapeutic strategy, once transferred to cells suitable for clinical application, may allow the biological modifications of CI surfaces with cells releasing neurotrophic or other factors of interest. PMID:26918945

Left-Deviating Prism Adaptation in Left Neglect Patient: Reflexions on a Negative Result

PubMed Central

Luauté, Jacques; Jacquin-Courtois, Sophie; O'Shea, Jacinta; Christophe, Laure; Rode, Gilles; Boisson, Dominique; Rossetti, Yves

2012-01-01

Adaptation to right-deviating prisms is a promising intervention for the rehabilitation of patients with left spatial neglect. In order to test the lateral specificity of prism adaptation on left neglect, the present study evaluated the effect of left-deviating prism on straight-ahead pointing movements and on several classical neuropsychological tests in a group of five right brain-damaged patients with left spatial neglect. A group of healthy subjects was also included for comparison purposes. After a single session of exposing simple manual pointing to left-deviating prisms, contrary to healthy controls, none of the patients showed a reliable change of the straight-ahead pointing movement in the dark. No significant modification of attentional paper-and-pencil tasks was either observed immediately or 2 hours after prism adaptation. These results suggest that the therapeutic effect of prism adaptation on left spatial neglect relies on a specific lateralized mechanism. Evidence for a directional effect for prism adaptation both in terms of the side of the visuomanual adaptation and therefore possibly in terms of the side of brain affected by the stimulation is discussed. PMID:23050168

Physico-Chemical and Structural Interpretation of Discrete Derivative Indices on N-Tuples Atoms

PubMed Central

Martínez-Santiago, Oscar; Marrero-Ponce, Yovani; Barigye, Stephen J.; Le Thi Thu, Huong; Torres, F. Javier; Zambrano, Cesar H.; Muñiz Olite, Jorge L.; Cruz-Monteagudo, Maykel; Vivas-Reyes, Ricardo; Vázquez Infante, Liliana; Artiles Martínez, Luis M.

2016-01-01

This report examines the interpretation of the Graph Derivative Indices (GDIs) from three different perspectives (i.e., in structural, steric and electronic terms). It is found that the individual vertex frequencies may be expressed in terms of the geometrical and electronic reactivity of the atoms and bonds, respectively. On the other hand, it is demonstrated that the GDIs are sensitive to progressive structural modifications in terms of: size, ramifications, electronic richness, conjugation effects and molecular symmetry. Moreover, it is observed that the GDIs quantify the interaction capacity among molecules and codify information on the activation entropy. A structure property relationship study reveals that there exists a direct correspondence between the individual frequencies of atoms and Hückel’s Free Valence, as well as between the atomic GDIs and the chemical shift in NMR, which collectively validates the theory that these indices codify steric and electronic information of the atoms in a molecule. Taking in consideration the regularity and coherence found in experiments performed with the GDIs, it is possible to say that GDIs possess plausible interpretation in structural and physicochemical terms. PMID:27240357

Effects of High Dietary HEME Iron and Radiation on Cardiovascular Function

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Westby, Christian M.; Brown, A. K.; Platts, S. H.

2012-01-01

The radiation related health risks to astronauts is of particular concern to NASA. Data support that exposure to radiation is associated with a number of disorders including a heightened risk for cardiovascular diseases. Independent of radiation, altered nutrient status (e.g. high dietary iron) also increases ones risk for cardiovascular disease. However, it is unknown whether exposure to radiation in combination with high dietary iron further increases ones cardiovascular risk. The intent of our proposal is to generate compulsory data examining the combined effect of radiation exposure and iron overload on sensitivity to radiation injury to address HRP risks: 1) Risk Factor of Inadequate Nutrition; 2) Risk of Cardiac Rhythm Problems; and 3) Risk of Degenerative Tissue or other Health Effects from Space Radiation. Towards our goal we propose two distinct pilot studies using the following specific aims: Vascular Aim 1: To determine the short-term consequences of the independent and combined effects of exposure to gamma radiation and elevated body iron stores on measures of endothelial function and cell viability and integrity. We hypothesize that animals that have high body iron stores and are exposed to gamma radiation will show a greater reduction in endothelial dependent nitric oxid production and larger pathological changes in endothelial integrity than animals that have only 1 of those treatments (either high iron stores or exposure to gamma radiation). Vascular Aim 2: Identify and compare the effects of gamma radiation and elevated body iron stores on the genetic and epigenetic regulation of proteins associated with endothelial cell function. We hypothesize that modifications of epigenetic control and posttranslational expression of proteins associated with endothelial cell function will be differentially altered in rats with high body iron stores and exposed to gamma radiation compared to rats with only 1 type of treatment. Cardiac Aim 1: To determine the short-term consequences of the independent and combined effects of gamma radiation and elevated body iron stores on measures of cardiac structure. We hypothesize that modifications to cardiac structure and function will be greater in rats with high body iron stores and exposed to gamma radiation than in rats that have only 1 of those treatments. Cardiac Aim 2: Identify and compare the effects of gamma radiation and elevated body iron stores on the genetic and epigenetic regulation of proteins associated with cardiac structure and function. We hypothesize that modifications of epigenetic control and posttranslational expression of proteins associated with cardiac contractile function will be differentially altered in rats with high body iron stores and exposed to gamma radiation compared to rats with only 1 type of treatment.

DYSTOCIA DUE TO SOFT TISSUE

PubMed Central

DeCarle, Donald W.

1954-01-01

In dystocia caused by abnormal conditions of the soft parts, the etiologic changes may be either in the genital tissues or in adjacent soft structures. Broadly, the conditions causing the difficulty may be grouped as follows: (1) anomalies or congenital modifications; (2) tumors; (3) modifications due to age, accident or surgical operations; (4) modification of the expulsive forces; (5) abnormalities of the products of conception. Often in such circumstances cesarean section is necessary. Sometimes when tumor is present it can be removed before it interferes with delivery, but decision to excise the growth must be guided by such factors as the location of the lesion and the stage of gestation. This would determine to what extent the maintenance of pregnancy would be jeopardized by surgical intervention before term. PMID:13190430

Retrovirus-based vectors for transient and permanent cell modification.

PubMed

Schott, Juliane W; Hoffmann, Dirk; Schambach, Axel

2015-10-01

Retroviral vectors are commonly employed for long-term transgene expression via integrating vector technology. However, three alternative retrovirus-based platforms are currently available that allow transient cell modification. Gene expression can be mediated from either episomal DNA or RNA templates, or selected proteins can be directly transferred through retroviral nanoparticles. The different technologies are functionally graded with respect to safety, expression magnitude and expression duration. Improvement of the initial technologies, including modification of vector designs, targeted increase in expression strength and duration as well as improved safety characteristics, has allowed maturation of retroviral systems into efficient and promising tools that meet the technological demands of a wide variety of potential application areas. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Relationships between aeroallergen levels and hospital admissions for asthma in the Brussels-Capital Region: a daily time series analysis.

PubMed

Guilbert, Ariane; Cox, Bianca; Bruffaerts, Nicolas; Hoebeke, Lucie; Packeu, Ann; Hendrickx, Marijke; De Cremer, Koen; Bladt, Sandrine; Brasseur, Olivier; Van Nieuwenhuyse, An

2018-04-11

Outdoor pollen grain and fungal spore concentrations have been associated with severe asthma exacerbations at the population level. The specific impact of each taxon and the concomitant effect of air pollution on these symptoms have, however, still to be better characterized. This study aimed to investigate the short-term associations between ambient concentrations of various aeroallergens and hospitalizations related to asthma in the Brussels-Capital Region (Belgium), an area recording especially high rates of admissions. Based on administrative records of asthma hospitalizations and regular monitoring of 11 tree/herbaceous pollen taxa and 2 fungal spore taxa, daily time series analyses covering the 2008-2013 period were performed. Effects up to 6 days after exposure were captured by combining quasi-Poisson regression with distributed lag models, adjusting for seasonal and long-term trends, day of the week, public holidays, mean temperature and relative humidity. Effect modification by age and air pollution (PM, NO 2 , O 3 ) was tested. A significant increase in asthma hospitalizations was observed for an interquartile range increase in grass (5.9%, 95% CI: 0.0, 12.0), birch (3.2%, 95% CI: 1.1, 5.3) and hornbeam (0.7%, 95% CI: 0.2, 1.3) pollen concentrations. For several taxa including grasses, an age modification effect was notable, the hospitalization risk tending to be higher in individuals younger than 60 years. Air pollutants impacted the relationships too: the risk appeared to be stronger for grass and birch pollen concentrations in case of high PM 10 and O 3 concentrations respectively. These findings suggest that airborne grass, birch and hornbeam pollen are associated with severe asthma exacerbations in the Brussels region. These compounds appear to act in synergy with air pollution and to more specifically affect young and intermediate age groups. Most of these life-threatening events could theoretically be prevented with improved disease diagnosis/management and targeted communication actions.

Effect modification of the association between short-term meteorological factors and mortality by urban heat islands in Hong Kong.

PubMed

Goggins, William B; Chan, Emily Y Y; Ng, Edward; Ren, Chao; Chen, Liang

2012-01-01

Prior studies from around the world have indicated that very high temperatures tend to increase summertime mortality. However possible effect modification by urban micro heat islands has only been examined by a few studies in North America and Europe. This study examined whether daily mortality in micro heat island areas of Hong Kong was more sensitive to short term changes in meteorological conditions than in other areas. An urban heat island index (UHII) was calculated for each of Hong Kong's 248 geographical tertiary planning units (TPU). Daily counts of all natural deaths among Hong Kong residents were stratified according to whether the place of residence of the decedent was in a TPU with high (above the median) or low UHII. Poisson Generalized Additive Models (GAMs) were used to estimate the association between meteorological variables and mortality while adjusting for trend, seasonality, pollutants and flu epidemics. Analyses were restricted to the hot season (June-September). Mean temperatures (lags 0-4) above 29 °C and low mean wind speeds (lags 0-4) were significantly associated with higher daily mortality and these associations were stronger in areas with high UHII. A 1 °C rise above 29 °C was associated with a 4.1% (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.7%, 7.6%) increase in natural mortality in areas with high UHII but only a 0.7% (95% CI: -2.4%, 3.9%) increase in low UHII areas. Lower mean wind speeds (5(th) percentile vs. 95(th) percentile) were associated with a 5.7% (95% CI: 2.7, 8.9) mortality increase in high UHII areas vs. a -0.3% (95% CI: -3.2%, 2.6%) change in low UHII areas. The results suggest that urban micro heat islands exacerbate the negative health consequences of high temperatures and low wind speeds. Urban planning measures designed to mitigate heat island effects may lessen the health effects of unfavorable summertime meteorological conditions.