Two-stage gas-phase bioreactor for the combined removal of hydrogen sulphide, methanol and alpha-pinene.

PubMed

Rene, Eldon R; Jin, Yaomin; Veiga, María C; Kennes, Christian

2009-11-01

Biological treatment systems have emerged as cost-effective and eco-friendly techniques for treating waste gases from process industries at moderately high gas flow rates and low pollutant concentrations. In this study, we have assessed the performance of a two-stage bioreactor, namely a biotrickling filter packed with pall rings (BTF, 1st stage) and a perlite + pall ring mixed biofilter (BF, 2nd stage) operated in series, for handling a complex mixture of hydrogen sulphide (H2S), methanol (CH3OH) and alpha-pinene (C10H16). It has been reported that the presence of H2S can reduce the biofiltration efficiency of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) when both are present in the gas mixture. Hydrogen sulphide and methanol were removed in the first stage BTF, previously inoculated with H2S-adapted populations and a culture containing Candida boidinii, an acid-tolerant yeast, whereas, in the second stage, alpha-pinene was removed predominantly by the fungus Ophiostoma stenoceras. Experiments were conducted in five different phases, corresponding to inlet loading rates varying between 2.1 and 93.5 g m(-3) h(-1) for H2S, 55.3 and 1260.2 g m(-3) h(-1) for methanol, and 2.8 and 161.1 g m(-3) h(-1) for alpha-pinene. Empty bed residence times were varied between 83.4 and 10 s in the first stage and 146.4 and 17.6 s in the second stage. The BTF, working at a pH as low as 2.7 as a result of H2S degradation, removed most of the H2S and methanol but only very little alpha-pinene. On the other hand, the BF, at a pH around 6.0, removed the rest of the H2S, the non-degraded methanol and most of the alpha-pinene vapours. Attempts were originally made to remove the three pollutants in a single acidophilic bioreactor, but the Ophiostoma strain was hardly active at pH <4. The maximum elimination capacities (ECs) reached by the two-stage bioreactor for individual pollutants were 894.4 g m(-3) h(-1) for methanol, 45.1 g m(-3) h(-1) for H2S and 138.1 g m(-3) h(-1) for alpha-pinene. The results from this study showed the potential effectiveness of a two-stage bioreactor for treating H2S together with two hydrophilic and hydrophobic VOCs that are typically emitted from wood industries.

Aerobic biological treatment of synthetic municipal wastewater in membrane-coupled bioreactors.

PubMed

Klatt, Christian G; LaPara, Timothy M

2003-05-05

Membrane-coupled bioreactors (MBRs) offer many benefits compared to conventional biological wastewater treatment systems; however, their performance characteristics are poorly understood. Laboratory-scale MBRs were used to study bacterial adaptations in physiology and community structure. MBRs were fed a mixture of starch, gelatin, and polyoxyethylene-sorbitan monooleate to simulate the polysaccharide, protein, and lipid components of municipal wastewater. Physiological adaptations were detected by measuring ectoenzyme activity while structural dynamics were studied by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis of PCR-amplified 16S rRNA gene fragments. As cell biomass accumulated in the MBRs, pollutant removal efficiency initially improved and then stabilized with respect to effluent concentrations of chemical oxygen demand, protein, and carbohydrate. Comparison of the MBR effluent to filtered reactor fluid indicated that a portion of the observed pollutant removal was due to filtration by the membrane rather than microbial activity. The rates of ectoenzyme-mediated polysaccharide (alpha-glucosidase) and protein (leucine aminopeptidase) hydrolysis became relatively constant once pollutant removal efficiency stabilized. However, the maximum rate of lipid hydrolysis (heptanoate esterase) concomitantly increased more than 10-fold. Similarly, alpha-glucosidase and leucine aminopeptidase ectoenzyme affinities were relatively constant, while the heptanoate esterase affinity increased more than 30-fold. Community analysis revealed that a substantial community shift occurred within the first 7 days of operation. A Flavobacterium-like bacterial population dominated the community (>50% of total band intensity) and continued to do so for the remainder of the experiment. Copyright 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Experiment on the treatment of waste extraction solvent from the molybdenum-99 process

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

Hsien-Ming Hsiao; Chang-Liang Hu; Kuang-Li Chien

2013-07-01

In the Mo-99 (Molybdenum-99) isotope extraction test process for radiopharmaceutical applications, organic solvent is used to extract Mo-99 from an irradiated UO{sub 2} dissolution. The extraction solvent was stored when the test work was stopped. A total of about 120 liters of waste solvent was stored at INER (Institute of Nuclear Energy Research, Taiwan). The extraction solvent consisted of 5% di-(2-ethylhexyl)-phosphoric acid (D2EHPA) and kerosene. The radionuclides found in the waste solvent include Cs-137, Am-241, Tc-99, and Sr-90, which give off gross alpha and beta radioactivity of 1898 and 471 Bq/ml, respectively. This study aims to remove radionuclides from themore » waste solvent using sodium carbonate and sodium hydroxide solutions in different concentrations. After mixing the waste solvent with the alkaline solution followed by settling, a third phase other than organic and aqueous phase appeared which is expected due to the saponification reaction. The experimental results showed that increasing the number of washing and the alkaline solution concentration could enhance the radionuclides removal rate. An optimal removal method was proposed using 2 M Na{sub 2}CO{sub 3} solution twice followed by 1 M NaOH solution one time for the third phase generated early in the mixing stages. The remaining gross alpha and beta radioactivity of the treated organic solvent was 2 and 3 Bq/ml, respectively. The treated solvent could be stabilized by ashing at 500 deg. C and then immobilized. The alkaline solution would be neutralized by hydrochloric or nitric acid and then treated using a variety of adsorbents or bone char via adsorption to remove nuclides to meet the wastewater discharge limitation. (authors)« less

Johnston Atoll Plutonium Cleanup Project, plant modification and operation. Volume 1. Annual report option year 2. Technical report, 1 October 1992-24 May 1993

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

Moroney, K.S.; Moroney, J.D.; Johnson, N.R.

1995-04-01

This report continues the documentation of the operation of TMA/Eberline`s Segmented Gate System technology for removing mixed plutonium and americium contamination at DNA`s Johnston Atoll site. Contaminated feed is conveyed under arrays of radiation detectors coupled with sophisticated computer software developed by Eberline Instrument Corporation. Segmented gates (chutes) on pneumatically-driven pistons move forward when contamination is detected to remove only the contaminated portion from the main flow of feed material. Only about one pint of contaminant is removed during each diversion event. At the JA site, a 98% volume reduction has been achieved, with the remediated soil cleaned to DNA`smore » criteria for release for unrestricted use of 500 Bq/kg total tnansuranic alpha contamination and no hot particles of greater than 5000 Becquerrels. The low level waste concentrate is expected to be packaged for shipment to an approved defense waste disposal site.« less

Johnston Atoll Plutonium Cleanup Project. Plant modification and operation. Volume 2. Annual report option year 2. Appendix A. Technical report, 1 October 1992-24 May 1993

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

Moroney, K.S.; Moroney, J.D.; Johnson, N.R.

1995-04-01

This report continues the documentation of the operation of TMA/Eberline`s Segmented Gate System technology for removing mixed plutonium and americium contamination at DNA`s Johnston Atoll site. Contaminated feed is conveyed under arrays of radiation detectors coupled with sophisticated computer software developed by Eberline Instrument Corporation. Segmented gates (chutes) on pneumatically-driven pistons move forward when contamination is detected to remove only the contaminated portion from the main flow of feed material. Only about one pint of contaminant is removed during each diversion event. At the JA site, a 98% volume reduction has been achieved, with the remediated soil cleaned to DNA`smore » criteria for release for unrestricted use of 500 Bq/kg total transuranic alpha contamination and no hot particles of greater than 5000 Becquerrels. The low level waste concentrate is expected to be packaged for shipment to an approved defense waste disposal site.« less

Johnston Atoll Plutonium Cleanup Project, plant modification and operation. Volume 3. Annual report option year 2. Appendices b through h. Technical report, 1 October 1992-24 May 1993

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

Moroney, K.S.; Moroney, J.D.; Johnson, N.R.

1995-04-01

This report continues the documentation of the operation of TMA/Eberline`s Segmented Gate System technology for removing mixed plutonium and americium contamination at DNA`s Johnston Atoll site. Contaminated feed is conveyed under arrays of radiation detectors coupled with sophisticated computer software developed by Eberline Instrument Corporation. Segmented gates (chutes) on pneumatically-driven pistons move forward when contamination is detected to remove only the contaminated portion from the main flow of feed material. Only about one pint of contaminant is removed during each diversion event. At the JA site, a 98% volume reduction has been achieved, with the remediated soil cleaned to DNA`smore » criteria for release for unrestricted use of 500 Bq/kg total transuranic alpha contamination and no hot particles of greater than 5000 Becquerrels. The low level waste concentrate is expected to be packaged for shipment to an approved defense waste disposal site.« less

Comparative study of selenite adsorption on carbon based adsorbents and activated alumina.

PubMed

Jegadeesan, G; Mondal, K; Lalvani, S B

2003-08-01

The sorption characteristics of carbon-based adsorbents such as activated carbon and chitin for the removal of selenite, Se (IV), an anionic, hazardous contaminant, are compared with those of alpha and gamma alumina. Batch experiments were conducted to determine the influence of pH, concentration of adsorbate, adsorbent loading and temperature on the sorption characteristics of the adsorbents. Generally, low pH of the solution resulted in favorable selenium removal. With the exception of activated carbon, uptakes decreased with increase in temperature. In comparison, chitin was found to be far less effective for the removal of Se (IV) from aqueous solutions. The data also showed that gamma alumina provided higher selenium removal percentages (99%) compared to alpha alumina (94%), activated carbon (87%) and chitin (49%). The selenite removal was found to decrease with increasing initial Se (IV) concentration in the solution. Adsorption capacities of the adsorbents are reported in terms of their Langmuir adsorption isotherms. The adsorption capacity (on unit mass basis) of the adsorbents for selenite is in the order: chitin (specific area (sa) = 9.58 m2 g(-1)) < activated carbon (sa = 96.37 m2 g(-1)) < alpha alumina (sa = 6 m2 g(-1)) < gamma alumina (sa = 150 m2 g(-1)).

The production and repair of aflatoxin B sub 1 -induced DNA damage

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

Leadon, S.A.

To investigate the influence of function or activity of a DNA sequence on its repair, we have studied excision repair of aflatoxin B{sub 1} (AFB{sub 1})-induced damage in the nontranscribed, heterochromatic alpha DNA of monkey cells and in the metallothionein genes of human cells. In confluent cells, AFB{sub 1} adducts are produced in similar frequencies in alpha and in the rest of the DNA, but removal from alpha DNA is severely deficient, however, removal of AFB{sub 1} adducts from alpha DNA is enhanced by small doses of UV. The repair deficiencies are not observed in actively growing cells. We havemore » also shown that there is preferential repair of AFB{sub 1} damage in active genes. AFB{sub 1} damage is efficiently repaired in the active human metallothionein (hMT) genes, but deficiently repaired in inactive hMT genes. 51 refs., 3 tabs.« less

Alpha 2-adrenergic receptor stimulation of phospholipase A2 and of adenylate cyclase in transfected Chinese hamster ovary cells is mediated by different mechanisms

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

Jones, S.B.; Halenda, S.P.; Bylund, D.B.

1991-02-01

The effect of alpha 2-adrenergic receptor activation on adenylate cyclase activity in Chinese hamster ovary cells stably transfected with the alpha 2A-adrenergic receptor gene is biphasic. At lower concentrations of epinephrine forskolin-stimulated cyclic AMP production is inhibited, but at higher concentrations the inhibition is reversed. Both of these effects are blocked by the alpha 2 antagonist yohimbine but not by the alpha 1 antagonist prazosin. Pretreatment with pertussis toxin attenuates inhibition at lower concentrations of epinephrine and greatly potentiates forskolin-stimulated cyclic AMP production at higher concentrations of epinephrine. alpha 2-Adrenergic receptor stimulation also causes arachidonic acid mobilization, presumably via phospholipasemore » A2. This effect is blocked by yohimbine, quinacrine, removal of extracellular Ca2+, and pretreatment with pertussis toxin. Quinacrine and removal of extracellular Ca2+, in contrast, have no effect on the enhanced forskolin-stimulated cyclic AMP production. Thus, it appears that the alpha 2-adrenergic receptor in these cells can simultaneously activate distinct signal transduction systems; inhibition of adenylate cyclase and stimulation of phospholipase A2, both via G1, and potentiation of cyclic AMP production by a different (pertussis toxin-insensitive) mechanism.« less

Validation of general job satisfaction in the Korean Labor and Income Panel Study.

PubMed

Park, Shin Goo; Hwang, Sang Hee

2017-01-01

The purpose of this study is to assess the validity and reliability of general job satisfaction (JS) in the Korean Labor and Income Panel Study (KLIPS). We used the data from the 17th wave (2014) of the nationwide KLIPS, which selected a representative panel sample of Korean households and individuals aged 15 or older residing in urban areas. We included in this study 7679 employed subjects (4529 males and 3150 females). The general JS instrument consisted of five items rated on a scale from 1 (strongly disagree) to 5 (strongly agree). The general JS reliability was assessed using the corrected item-total correlation and Cronbach's alpha coefficient. The validity of general JS was assessed using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and Pearson's correlation. The corrected item-total correlations ranged from 0.736 to 0.837. Therefore, no items were removed. Cronbach's alpha for general JS was 0.925, indicating excellent internal consistency. The CFA of the general JS model showed a good fit. Pearson's correlation coefficients for convergent validity showed moderate or strong correlations. The results obtained in our study confirm the validity and reliability of general JS.

Prehospital emergency removal of football helmets using two techniques.

PubMed

Swartz, Erik E; Hernandez, Adam E; Decoster, Laura C; Mihalik, Jason P; Burns, Matthew F; Reynolds, Cathryn

2011-01-01

To compare the Eject Helmet Removal (EHR) System with manual football helmet removal. This quasiexperimental counterbalanced study was conducted in a controlled laboratory setting. Thirty certified athletic trainers (17 men and 13 women; mean ± standard deviation age: 33.03 ± 10.02 years; height: 174.53 ± 12.04 cm; mass: 85.19 ± 19.84 kg) participated after providing informed consent. Participants removed a Riddell Revolution IQ football helmet from a healthy model two times each under two conditions: manual helmet removal (MHR) and removal with the EHR system. A six-camera, three-dimensional motion capture system was used to record range of motion (ROM) of the head. A digital stopwatch was used to time trials and to record a split time associated with EHR system bladder insertion. A modified Borg CR10 scale was used to measure the rating of perceived exertion (RPE). Mean values were created for each variable. Three pairwise t-tests with Bonferroni-corrected alpha levels tested for differences between time for removal, split time, and RPE. A 2 x 3 (condition x plane) totally within-subjects repeated-measures design analysis of variance (ANOVA) tested for differences in head ROM between the sagittal, frontal, and transverse planes. Analyses were performed using SPSS (version 18.0) (alpha = 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in perceived difficulty between EHR (RPE = 2.73) and MHR (RPE = 2.55) (t(29) = 0.76; p = 0.45; d = 0.20). Manual helmet removal was, on average, 28.95 seconds faster than EHR (t(29) = 11.44; p < 0.001). Head ROM was greater during EHR compared with MHR in the sagittal (t(29) = 4.57; p < 0.001), frontal (t(29) = 5.90; p < 0.001), and transverse (t(29) = 8.34; p < 0.001) planes. Head ROM was also greater during the helmet-removal portion of EHR in the frontal (t(29) = 4.44; p < 0.001) and transverse (t(29) = 5.99; p < 0.001) planes, compared with MHR. Regardless of technique, sagittal-plane head ROM was greater than frontal- and transverse-plane movements (F(2,58) = 241.47; p < 0.001). Removing a helmet manually is faster and creates slightly less motion than removing a helmet using the Eject system. Both techniques were equally easy to use. Future research should analyze the performance of the Eject system in other styles of football helmets and in helmets used in other sports such as lacrosse, motorsports, and ice hockey.

Induction of estrus during the non-breeding season in Egyptian Baladi goats.

PubMed

Medan, Mohamed; Shalaby, Abdel-Hamid; Sharawy, Sayed; Watanabe, Gen; Taya, Kazuyoshi

2002-01-01

The induction of estrus during the non-breeding season was investigated in 100 Egyptian Baladi goats (Capra hircus). All animals assigned to treatments had low progesterone concentrations (<0.5 ng/ml) tested 2 times 10 days apart to confirm anestrous condition. Animals were assigned to three experimental groups. A group of animals received subcutaneous norgestomet ear implant for 11 days and a single i.m. injection of PGF2alpha 24 hr before implant removal (group I; n=40). Second group of animals received subcutaneous norgestomet ear implant for 11 days and a single i.m. injection of PGF2alpha 24 hr before implant removal and gonadotropin releasing hormone 24 hr after implant removal (group II; n=40). Third group of animals received no treatment (control group; n=20). The percentage of goats that showed estrous behavior during the first 72 hr after implant removal was 77.5, 85.0% and 10.0% in group I, group II and control group, respectively. The fertility rate was 57.5, 70.0% and 10.0% in group I, group II and control group, respectively. In conclusion, estrus can be induced in seasonally anestrous Egyptian Baladi goats using norgestomet and PGF2alpha and the injection of GnRH 24 hr after norgestomet implant removal synchronized ovulation in a higher percentage of goats.

Expression of tumour necrosis factor alpha and accumulation of fibronectin in coronary artery restenotic lesions retrieved by atherectomy.

PubMed Central

Clausell, N.; de Lima, V. C.; Molossi, S.; Liu, P.; Turley, E.; Gotlieb, A. I.; Adelman, A. G.; Rabinovitch, M.

1995-01-01

BACKGROUND--The formation of coronary artery neointima experimentally induced in piglets after cardiac transplantation is related to an immune-inflammatory reaction associated with increased expression of T cells and inflammatory mediators (tumour necrosis factor alpha and interleukin 1 beta) and upregulation of fibronectin. In vivo blockade of tumour necrosis factor alpha in rabbits after cardiac transplantation results in reduced neointimal formation. The objective of this study was to investigate the hypothesis that coronary restenosis after atherectomy or percutaneous balloon angioplasty is associated with a similar inflammatory cascade initiated by mechanical injury. METHODS--Specimens taken at coronary atherectomy were analysed from 16 patients. Nine had had the procedure performed twice, firstly, to remove a primary lesion, and secondly, to remove a restenotic lesion. Seven had percutaneous balloon angioplasty after removal of restenotic tissue. Coronary atherectomy specimens were analysed by immunohistochemistry for the presence of T cells, macrophages, major histocompatibility complex II, interleukin 1 beta, tumour necrosis factor alpha, fibronectin, and the receptor for hyaluronan mediated motility. RESULTS--The groups were clinically and angiographically similar with equivalent lumens before and after atherectomy. Restenotic lesions had increased expression of tumour necrosis factor alpha and fibronectin compared with the primary lesions (P < 0.05 for both). There was also a trend towards a greater number of T cells and increased expression of interleukin 1 beta. CONCLUSIONS--Restenosis is associated with increased expression of tumour necrosis factor alpha and fibronectin, suggesting that an immune-inflammatory reaction probably contributes to neointimal formation and may represent a form of wound healing and repair secondary to mechanical injury. Images PMID:7626352

Development and psychometric evaluation of the Impact of Health Information Technology (I-HIT) scale.

PubMed

Dykes, Patricia C; Hurley, Ann; Cashen, Margaret; Bakken, Suzanne; Duffy, Mary E

2007-01-01

The use of health information technology (HIT) for the support of communication processes and data and information access in acute care settings is a relatively new phenomenon. A means of evaluating the impact of HIT in hospital settings is needed. The purpose of this research was to design and psychometrically evaluate the Impact of Health Information Technology scale (I-HIT). I-HIT was designed to measure the perception of nurses regarding the ways in which HIT influences interdisciplinary communication and workflow patterns and nurses' satisfaction with HIT applications and tools. Content for a 43-item tool was derived from the literature, and supported theoretically by the Coiera model and by nurse informaticists. Internal consistency reliability analysis using Cronbach's alpha was conducted on the 43-item scale to initiate the item reduction process. Items with an item total correlation of less than 0.35 were removed, leaving a total of 29 items. Item analysis, exploratory principal component analysis and internal consistency reliability using Cronbach's alpha were used to confirm the 29-item scale. Principal components analysis with Varimax rotation produced a four-factor solution that explained 58.5% of total variance (general advantages, information tools to support information needs, information tools to support communication needs, and workflow implications). Internal consistency of the total scale was 0.95 and ranged from 0.80-0.89 for four subscales. I-HIT demonstrated psychometric adequacy and is recommended to measure the impact of HIT on nursing practice in acute care settings.

The effect of particle size on the dehydration/rehydration behaviour of lactose.

PubMed

Crisp, J L; Dann, S E; Edgar, M; Blatchford, C G

2010-05-31

Ethanolic suspensions of spray dried and micronized alpha lactose monohydrate (L(alpha)xH(2)O) with average particle size between 3 and 200 microm, have been prepared and their dehydration behaviour was investigated by (13)C CP-MASNMR spectroscopy. Sub-micron lactose suspension prepared by a novel high pressure homogenisation method has been compared with the standard ethanolic suspensions of (L(alpha).H(2)O prepared by reflux or static room temperature methods. In all cases, suspensions were shown to contain the stable anhydrous form of lactose ((L(alpha)(S)). Several approaches were employed to remove ethanol from these suspensions and the resulting dry lactose powders were then analysed by FT-IR, PXRD and SEM to evaluate the effect of drying procedure on type and distribution of lactose polymorphs and particle size. For samples with mean particle size greater than 1 microm, the stable anhydrous polymorphic form of lactose was retained on removal of the ethanol, although differences in the morphology and particle size of the crystals were apparent depending on method of suspension formation. Sub-micron (L(alpha)(S), while stable in dry conditions, has been shown to be less stable to atmospheric water vapour than (L(alpha)(S) with particle size between 3 and 200 microm. Copyright (c) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Exercise increases the plasma membrane content of the Na+ -K+ pump and its mRNA in rat skeletal muscles.

PubMed

Tsakiridis, T; Wong, P P; Liu, Z; Rodgers, C D; Vranic, M; Klip, A

1996-02-01

Muscle fibers adapt to ionic challenges of exercise by increasing the plasma membrane Na+-K+ pump activity. Chronic exercise training has been shown to increase the total amount of Na+-K+ pumps present in skeletal muscle. However, the mechanism of adaptation of the Na+-K+ pump to an acute bout of exercise has not been determined, and it is not known whether it involves alterations in the content of plasma membrane pump subunits. Here we examine the effect of 1 h of treadmill running (20 m/min, 10% grade) on the subcellular distribution and expression of Na+-K+ pump subunits in rat skeletal muscles. Red type I and IIa (red-I/IIa) and white type IIa and IIb (white-IIa/IIb) hindlimb muscles from resting and exercised female Sprague-Dawley rats were removed for subcellular fractionation. By homogenization and gradient centrifugation, crude membranes and purified plasma membranes were isolated and subjected to gel electrophoresis and immunoblotting by using pump subunit-specific antibodies. Furthermore, mRNA was isolated from specific red type I (red-I) and white type IIb (white-IIb) muscles and subjected to Northern blotting by using subunit-specific probes. In both red-I/IIa and white-IIa/IIb muscles, exercise significantly raised the plasma membrane content of the alpha1-subunit of the pump by 64 +/- 24 and 55 +/- 22%, respectively (P < 0.05), and elevated the alpha2-polypeptide by 43 +/- 22 and 94 +/- 39%, respectively (P < 0.05). No significant effect of exercise could be detected on the amount of these subunits in an internal membrane fraction or in total membranes. In addition, exercise significantly increased the alpha1-subunit mRNA in red-I muscle (by 50 +/- 7%; P < 0.05) and the beta2-subunit mRNA in white-IIb muscles (by 64 +/- 19%; P < 0.01), but the alpha2- and beta1-mRNA levels were unaffected in this time period. We conclude that increased presence of alpha1- and alpha2-polypeptides at the plasma membrane and subsequent elevation of the alpha1- and beta2-subunit mRNAs may be mechanisms by which acute exercise regulates the Na+-K+ pump of skeletal muscle.

Does alpha 1-acid glycoprotein act as a non-functional receptor for alpha 1-adrenergic antagonists?

PubMed

Qin, M; Oie, S

1994-11-01

The ability of a variety of alpha 1-acid glycoproteins (AAG) to affect the intrinsic activity of the alpha 1-adrenergic antagonist prazosin was studied in rabbit aortic strip preparations. From these studies, the activity of AAG appears to be linked to their ability to bind the antagonist. However, a capability to bind prazosin was not the only requirement for this effect. The removal of sialic acid and partial removal of the galactose and mannose residues by periodate oxidation of human AAG all but eliminated the ability of AAG to affect the intrinsic pharmacologic activity of prazosin, although the binding of prazosin was not significantly affected. The presence of bovine AAG, a protein that has a low ability to bind prazosin, reduced the effect of human AAG on prazosin activity. Based upon these results, we propose that AAG is able to bind in the vicinity of the alpha 1-adrenoceptors, therefore extending the binding region for antagonists in such a way as to decrease the ability of the antagonist to interact with the receptor. The carbohydrate side-chains are important for the binding of AAG in the region of the adrenoceptor.

On the Numerical Analysis of Decay Rate Enhancement in Metallic Environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mehedinteanu, S.

2007-10-01

Motivated on the very recent experiments to determine the acceleration of the alpha decay of meta-stable radionuclides in metallic environment some work has been done to strengthten the importance in the process of electrons screening in metals. Thus, by combining the Gamow decay theory with electrostatic screening in Debye-Hückel approximation (jellium model) a formula for ``the shift'' in screening energy which enters in the decay enhancement factor expression that copes well with these experiments has been derived. It was established that to simulate the poly-atoms system containing decaying isotopes in QM&MD codes calculations, and to include ``the screening energy shift'' of protons, decay alpha, beta+ particles due to all surrounding interacting effects, it is sufficiently only to substitute the code ruly pseudo-potential input for hydrogen-like atoms (including alpha) by a screened Coulomb potential as from the well-known Gamow alpha decay theory. For demonstration is used the QM&MD code package which usually performs density-functional theory (DFT) total-energy calculations for materials ranging from insulators to transition metals. This package employs first-principles pseudo-potentials and a plane-wave basis-set, and it was used to do a special calculus for some metal environments (Pd) where protons-deuterons are implanted or when it is alloyed with a radionuclide-like isotopes (174Hf72), the results compare well with the existing experiments on the decay enhancement. These works give further arguments for a cheap solution to remove the transuranic waste (involving all alpha-decay) of used-up rods of fission reactors in a time period of a few years.

Five-minute P Modes Detected in Doppler Shift Measurement on Alpha Centauri

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fossat, E.; Grec, G.; Gelly, B.

1984-01-01

A spectrophotometer using the principle of optical resonance spectroscopy, designed for the goal of identifying radial and weakly non radial eigenmodes in the five minute range in the case of stars, is discussed. The conclusion of the first test of this new instrument was that if the observation can be photon noise limited (i.e., in total absence of any instrumental source of noise), the five-minute solar oscillation could still be detected by removing the Sun far enough for its magnitude to become zero or one. Such a situation is very closely represented by the observation of Alpha Centauri A, because it is a G2 V star, very similar to the Sun, with a mass of 1.1 in solar unit. Six nights were granted to this program on a 3.6m telescope, from 22 to 28 May 1983. Two and half nights provided over 20 hours of data of photometric quality good enough for analysis.

[Age-related change in the alpha-tocopherolquinone/alpha-tocopherol ratio in the rat erythrocyte membrane].

PubMed

Yanagawa, K; Takeda, H; Matsumiya, T; Takasaki, M

1999-05-01

alpha-Tocopherol (alpha-Toc), a lipophilic phenolic antioxidant that is localized mainly in the biomembrane, protects cells against oxidation-associated cytotoxicity by prevention of membrane lipid peroxidation, maintenance of the redox balance intracellular thiols and stabilization of the membrane structure. We investigated the age-related changes in redox dynamics of alpha-Toc in plasma and erythrocyte membrane of an elderly (66 weeks old) and young group (10 weeks old). Total, alpha-, beta + gamma-, delta-Toc and alpha-tocopherolquinone (alpha-TocQ) in plasma and erythrocyte membrane were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with a series of multiple coulometric working electrodes (CWE). Rat venous blood sample was divided into plasma and erythrocyte layers by centrifugation, and then erythrocyte membrane sample was prepared according to the method of Dodge et al. under a stream of nitrogen. In plasma, total and alpha-Toc concentrations were increased, and beta + gamma-, delta-Toc and alpha-TocQ concentrations were decreased age-dependently. In the erythrocyte membrane, total, alpha-TocQ concentrations and three fractions of tocopherols decreased age-dependently. Also, a decrease in the alpha-TocQ/alpha-Toc ratio in erythrocyte membrane was observed in the elderly group. These findings suggest that the alpha-Toc uptake in erythrocyte membrane and utilization rate of alpha-Toc in erythrocyte membrane decline age-dependently. This decline may promote membrane lipid peroxidation. alpha-Toc redox dynamics in erythrocyte membrane were useful to investigate the pathophysiology of aging mechanisms related to oxidative stress.

Sensitivity of neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors to the opiate antagonists naltrexone and naloxone: receptor blockade and up-regulation.

PubMed

Almeida, Luis E F; Pereira, Edna F R; Camara, Adriana L; Maelicke, Alfred; Albuquerque, Edson X

2004-04-19

In HEK293 cells stably expressing alpha4beta2 nAChRs, naltrexone, but not naloxone, blocked alpha4beta2 nAChRs via an open-channel blocking mechanism. In primary hippocampal cultures, naltrexone inhibited alpha7 nAChRs up-regulated by nicotine, and in organotypic hippocampal cultures naltrexone caused a time-dependent up-regulation of functional alpha7 nAChRs that was detected after removal of the drug. These results indicate that naltrexone could be used as a smoking cessation aid.

[Acetylcholine activation of alpha-ketoglutarate oxidation in liver mitochondria].

PubMed

Shostakovskaia, I V; Doliba, N M; Gordiĭ, S K; Babskiĭ, A M; Kondrashova, M N

1986-01-01

Activation of alpha-ketoglutarate oxidation in the rat liver mitochondria takes place 15 and 30 min after intraperitoneal injection of acetyl choline. This mediator in doses of 25, 50 and 100 micrograms per 100 g of body weight causes a pronounced stimulation of phosphorylation respiration rate and calcium capacity of mitochondria with alpha-ketoglutarate oxidation. Acetyl choline is found to have a moderate inhibitory action on oxidation of lower (physiological) concentrations of succinate. Its stimulating action on alpha-ketoglutarate oxidation is associated with activation of M-cholinoreceptors; atropine, a choline-blocker, removes completely this effect. It is supposed that alpha-ketoglutarate and succinate are included into the composition of two reciprocal hormonal-substrate nucleotide systems.

Variations in the concentration of plutonium, strontium-90 and total alpha-emitters in human teeth collected within the British Isles.

PubMed

O'Donnell, R G; Mitchell, P I; Priest, N D; Strange, L; Fox, A; Henshaw, D L; Long, S C

1997-08-18

Concentrations of plutonium-239, plutonium-240, strontium-90 and total alpha-emitters have been measured in children's teeth collected throughout Great Britain and Ireland. The concentrations of plutonium and strontium-90 were measured in batched samples, each containing approximately 50 teeth, using low-background radiochemical methods. The concentrations of total alpha-emitters were determined in single teeth using alpha-sensitive plastic track detectors. The results showed that the average concentrations of total alpha-emitters and strontium-90 were approximately one to three orders of magnitude greater than the equivalent concentrations of plutonium-239,240. Regression analyses indicated that the concentrations of plutonium, but not strontium-90 or total alpha-emitters, decreased with increasing distance from the Sellafield nuclear fuel reprocessing plant-suggesting that this plant is a source of plutonium contamination in the wider population of the British Isles. Nevertheless, the measured absolute concentrations of plutonium (mean = 5 +/- 4 mBq kg-1 ash wt.) were so low that they are considered to present an insignificant radiological hazard.

Application of two-stage biofilter system for the removal of odorous compounds.

PubMed

Jeong, Gwi-Taek; Park, Don-Hee; Lee, Gwang-Yeon; Cha, Jin-Myeong

2006-01-01

Biofiltration is a biological process which is considered to be one of the more successful examples of biotechnological applications to environmental engineering, and is most commonly used in the removal of odoriferous compounds. In this study, we have attempted to assess the efficiency with which both single and complex odoriferous compounds could be removed, using one- or two-stage biofiltration systems. The tested single odor gases, limonene, alpha-pinene, and iso-butyl alcohol, were separately evaluated in the biofilters. Both limonene and alpha-pinene were removed by 90% or more EC (elimination capacity), 364 g/m3/h and 321 g/m3/h, respectively, at an input concentration of 50 ppm and a retention time of 30 s. The iso-butyl alcohol was maintained with an effective removal yield of more than 90% (EC 375 g/m3/h) at an input concentration of 100 ppm. The complex gas removal scheme was applied with a 200 ppm inlet concentration of ethanol, 70 ppm of acetaldehyde, and 70 ppm of toluene with residence time of 45 s in a one- or two-stage biofiltration system. The removal yield of toluene was determined to be lower than that of the other gases in the one-stage biofilter. Otherwise, the complex gases were sufficiently eliminated by the two-stage biofiltration system.

Influence of the extent of disruption of Bakers' yeast on protein adsorption in expanded beds.

PubMed

Balasundaram, B; Harrison, S T L

2008-02-01

Expanded bed adsorption chromatography is used to capture the protein product of interest from a crude biological suspension directly, thereby eliminating the need for the removal of the cell debris. While this technique may replace three or four unit operations in a typical downstream process for biological product recovery, the adsorption process is influenced by the interaction between the microbial cells or cell debris and the adsorbent as well as the presence of contaminating solutes. The influence of the extent and nature of disruption of Bakers' yeast on the adsorption of the total soluble protein and alpha-glucosidase was investigated in this study. Two different techniques were used for cell disruption: high pressure homogenisation and hydrodynamic cavitation. Two different adsorbents were chosen: anionic Streamline DEAE and cationic Streamline SP. The settled bed height and the superficial velocity were constant across all experiments. The feedstock was characterised in terms of viscosity, pH, conductivity, particle size distribution of the cell debris and the extent of protein and alpha-glucosidase released. The performance of the adsorption process was found to be influenced by the electrostatic interactions of cell debris with the anionic adsorbent Streamline DEAE and the intraparticle diffusional resistance inside the pores of the adsorbent matrix. The increase in the intensity of disruption resulted in an increase in the dynamic binding capacity (10% feed) of both the total soluble protein and the alpha-glucosidase. However, the increase in the DBC of protein and alpha-glucosidase were not proportional. The amount of protein that could be adsorbed per ml of adsorbent from the samples subjected to a lower intensity of disruption was found to exceed that obtained at a higher disruption intensity on increasing the volume of feed suggesting multilayer adsorption. In this case, selective adsorption of the model protein alpha-glucosidase was reduced, illustrating the compromise of maximising protein recovery through non-specific binding. The study illustrates the need for an interrogation of the intensity of disruption needed and a rigorous understanding of the influence of cell debris and adsorbent-protein interaction, in optimising the selective recovery of intracellular products by EBA.

Removal of alpha-pinene from gases using biofilters containing fungi

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

van Groenestijn, J. W.; Liu, J. X.

Biofiltration is cost-effective for the treatment of gases containing low concentrations of volatile organic compounds (<3 g m -3) . However, conventional biofilters, based on compost and bacterial activity, face problems with the elimination of hydrophobic compounds. Besides that, biofilter operational stability is often hampered by acidification and drying out of the filter bed. To overcome these problems, biofilters with fungi on inert packing material have been developed. Fungi are more resistant to acid and dry conditions than bacteria, and it is hypothesised that the aerial mycelia of fungi, which are in direct contact with the gas, can take up hydrophobic compounds faster than flat aqueous bacterial biofilm surfaces. Alpha-pinene was chosen as a model compound. It is an odorous compound emitted by the wood processing industry. In 2 l biofilter columns four different packing materials were tested: perlite, expanded clay granules, polyurethane foam cubes and compost. The filters were inoculated with forest soil and ventilated with gas containing alpha-pinene. Start up took 1-2 months and removal efficiencies of more than 90% were observed, but mostly ranged from 50% to 90% due to overloading. In the filters containing perlite, clay, polyurethane and compost volumetric removal capacities of, respectively, 24, 33, 38 and 24 g alpha- pinene m -3 filter bed h -1 were attained and the gas pressure drops in the 60 cm high filter beds measured at a superficial gas velocity of 35 m h -1 were 70, 550, 180 and 250 Pa. The results indicate that it is possible to develop biofilters based on the action of fungi with higher elimination capacities for alpha-pinene as reported in literature for bacterial biofilters. The use of polyurethane foam cubes is preferred because of the low gas pressure drop in combination with a high volumetric elimination capacity.

Test chamber for alpha spectrometry

DOEpatents

Larsen, Robert P.

1977-01-01

Alpha emitters for low-level radiochemical analysis by measurement of alpha spectra are positioned precisely with respect to the location of a surface-barrier detector by means of a chamber having a removable threaded planchet holder. A pedestal on the planchet holder holds a specimen in fixed engagement close to the detector. Insertion of the planchet holder establishes an O-ring seal that permits the chamber to be pumped to a desired vacuum. The detector is protected against accidental contact and resulting damage.

Grindability of alpha-case formed on cast titanium.

PubMed

Koike, Marie; Jacobson, David; Chan, Kwai S; Okabe, Toru

2009-09-01

The hardened alpha-case (alpha-case) layer inevitably forms on the surface of titanium castings when prepared by investment casting. Because the hardness of the alpha-case is incomparable to that of the interior structure, the perception exists that the alpha-case is difficult to remove during cutting, grinding and polishing. Grindability (ease of grinding) of cast cpTi and cast Ti-6Al-4V was evaluated by grinding cast specimens incrementally using a SiC abrasive wheel. The present study revealed that the presence of the brittle alpha-case with lower fracture toughness is beneficial in grinding titanium. The alpha-case on the ductile cpTi can be ground much easier than its bulk interior structure. In less ductile Ti-6Al-4V, the grinding rate is much higher than that of cpTi, and the alpha-case and its interior structure are at similar levels since the fracture toughness of its alpha-case and the bulk material is not large enough.

Exposure to Ionizing Radiation Causes Long-Term Increase in Serum Estradiol and Activation of PI3K-Akt Signaling Pathway in Mouse Mammary Gland

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

Suman, Shubhankar; Johnson, Michael D.; Fornace, Albert J.

Purpose: Exposure to ionizing radiation is an established risk factor for breast cancer. Radiation exposure during infancy, childhood, and adolescence confers the highest risk. Although radiation is a proven mammary carcinogen, it remains unclear where it acts in the complex multistage process of breast cancer development. In this study, we investigated the long-term pathophysiologic effects of ionizing radiation at a dose (2 Gy) relevant to fractionated radiotherapy. Methods and Materials: Adolescent (6-8 weeks old; n = 10) female C57BL/6J mice were exposed to 2 Gy total body {gamma}-radiation, the mammary glands were surgically removed, and serum and urine samples weremore » collected 2 and 12 months after exposure. Molecular pathways involving estrogen receptor-{alpha} (ER{alpha}) and phosphatidylinositol-3-OH kinase (PI3K)-Akt signaling were investigated by immunohistochemistry and Western blot. Results: Serum estrogen and urinary levels of the oncogenic estrogen metabolite (16{alpha}OHE1) were significantly increased in irradiated animals. Immunostaining for the cellular proliferative marker Ki-67 and cyclin-D1 showed increased nuclear accumulation in sections of mammary glands from irradiated vs. control mice. Marked increase in p85{alpha}, a regulatory sub-unit of the PI3K was associated with increase in Akt, phospho-Akt, phospho-BAD, phospho-mTOR, and c-Myc in irradiated samples. Persistent increase in nuclear ER{alpha} in mammary tissues 2 and 12 months after radiation exposure was also observed. Conclusions: Taken together, our data not only support epidemiologic observations associating radiation and breast cancer but also, specify molecular events that could be involved in radiation-induced breast cancer.« less

Orthopositronium Lifetime: Analytic Results in O({alpha}) and O({alpha}{sup 3}ln{alpha})

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

Kniehl, Bernd A.; Kotikov, Anatoly V.; Veretin, Oleg L.

2008-11-07

We present the O({alpha}) and O({alpha}{sup 3}ln{alpha}) corrections to the total decay width of orthopositronium in closed analytic form, in terms of basic irrational numbers, which can be evaluated numerically to arbitrary precision.

Synthesis of methyl 2-O-alpha-D-mannopyranosyl-alpha-D-talopyranoside and methyl 2-O-alpha-D-talopyranosyl-alpha-D-talopyranoside.

PubMed

Jain, R K; Dubey, R; Abbas, S A; Matta, K L

1987-03-15

Treatment of methyl 3-O-benzyl-2-O-(2,3,4,6-tetra-O-acetyl-alpha-D-mannopyranosyl)-alpha-D- mannopyranoside (1) with tert-butyldiphenylsilyl chloride in N,N-dimethylformamide afforded methyl 3-O-benzyl-6-O-tert-butyldiphenylsilyl-2-O-(2,3,4,6-tetra-O-acetyl -alpha-D- mannopyranosyl)-alpha-D-mannopyranoside (2). Oxidation of 2 with pyridinium chlorochromate, followed by reduction of the carbonyl group, and subsequent O-deacetylation afforded methyl 3-O-benzyl-6-O-tert-butyldiphenylsilyl-2-O-alpha-D-mannopyranosyl- alpha-D- talopyranoside (5). Cleavage of the tert-butyldiphenylsilyl group of 5 with tetrabutylammonium fluoride in oxolane, followed by hydrogenolysis, gave methyl 2-O-alpha-D-mannopyranosyl-alpha-D-talopyranoside (7). O-Deacetylation of 1 gave methyl 3-O-benzyl-2-O-alpha-D-mannopyranosyl-alpha-D-mannopyranoside (8). Treatment of 8 with tert-butyldiphenylsilyl chloride afforded a 6,6'-disilyl derivative, which was converted into a 2',3'-O-isopropylidene derivative, and then further oxidized with pyridinium chlorochromate. The resulting diketone was reduced and removal of the protecting groups gave methyl 2-O-alpha-D-talopyranosyl-alpha-D-talopyranoside (15). The structures of both 7 and 15 were established by 13C-n.m.r. spectroscopy.

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

Liebhaber, S.A.; Weiss, I.; Cash, F.E.

Synthesis of normal human hemoglobin A, {alpha}{sub 2}{beta}{sub 2}, is based upon balanced expression of genes in the {alpha}-globin gene cluster on chromosome 15 and the {beta}-globin gene cluster on chromosome 11. Full levels of erythroid-specific activation of the {beta}-globin cluster depend on sequences located at a considerable distance 5{prime} to the {beta}-globin gene, referred to as the locus-activating or dominant control region. The existence of an analogous element(s) upstream of the {alpha}-globin cluster has been suggested from observations on naturally occurring deletions and experimental studies. The authors have identified an individual with {alpha}-thalassemia in whom structurally normal {alpha}-globin genesmore » have been inactivated in cis by a discrete de novo 35-kilobase deletion located {approximately}30 kilobases 5{prime} from the {alpha}-globin gene cluster. They conclude that this deletion inactivates expression of the {alpha}-globin genes by removing one or more of the previously identified upstream regulatory sequences that are critical to expression of the {alpha}-globin genes.« less

Synthesis of methyl 3-O-alpha-D-mannopyranosyl-alpha-D-talopyranoside and methyl 3-O-alpha-D-talopyranosyl-alpha-D-talopyranoside.

PubMed

Dubey, R; Jain, R K; Abbas, S A; Matta, K L

1987-08-01

Methyl 2-O-benzyl-3-O-(2,3,4,6-tetra-O-acetyl-alpha-D-mannopyranosyl)-alpha- D-mannopyranoside (4) and methyl 2-O-benzyl-3-O-alpha-D-mannopyranosyl-alpha-D-mannopyranoside (6) were prepared from a common intermediate, namely, methyl 2-O-benzyl-4,6-O-benzylidene-3-O-(2,3,4,6-tetra-O-acetyl-alpha-D- mannopyranosyl)-alpha-D-mannopyranoside. On treatment with tert-butylchlorodiphenylsilane, in N,N-dimethylformamide in the presence of imidazole, 4 and 6 afforded methyl 2-O-benzyl-6-O-tert-butyldiphenylsilyl-3-O-(2,3,4,6-tetra-O-acetyl -alpha-D- mannopyranosyl)-alpha-D-mannopyranoside (7), and methyl 2-O-benzyl-6-O-tert-butyldiphenylsilyl-3-O-(6-O-tert- butyldiphenylsilyl-alpha-D-mannopyranosyl)-alpha-D-mannopyranoside (8), respectively. Compound 8 was converted into its 2,3-O-isopropylidene derivative (9), and oxidation of 7 and 9 with pyridinium chlorochromate, and reduction of the resulting carbonyl intermediates gave methyl 2-O-benzyl-6-O-tert-butyldiphenylsilyl-3-O-(2,3,4,6-tetra-O-acetyl -alpha-D- mannopyranosyl)-alpha-D-talopyranoside and methyl 2-O-benzyl-6-O-tert-butyldiphenylsilyl-3-O-(6-O-tert-butyldiphe nylsilyl- 2,3-O-isopropylidene-alpha-D-talopyranosyl)-alpha-D-talopyranoside , respectively. Removal of the protecting groups furnished the title disaccharides.

The machinability of cast titanium and Ti-6Al-4V.

PubMed

Ohkubo, C; Watanabe, I; Ford, J P; Nakajima, H; Hosoi, T; Okabe, T

2000-02-01

This study investigated the machinability (ease of metal removal) of commercially pure (CP) titanium and Ti-6Al-4V alloy. Both CP Ti and Ti-6Al-4V were cast into magnesia molds. Two types of specimens (with alpha-case and without alpha-case) were made for CP Ti and Ti-6Al-4V. Machinability (n = 5) was evaluated as volume loss (mm3) by cutting/grinding the 3.0 mm surface using fissure burs and silicon carbide (SiC) under two machining conditions: (1) two machining forces (100 or 300 gf) at two rotational speeds (15000 or 30000 rpm) for 1 min, and (2) constant machining force of 100 gf and rotational speed of 15000 rpm for 1, 2, 5, 10, and 30 min. As controls, conventionally cast Co-Cr and Type IV gold alloys were evaluated in the same manner as the titanium. When fissure burs were used, there was a significant difference in the machinability between CP titanium with alpha-case and without alpha-case. On the other hand, there was no appreciable difference in the amount of metal removed for each tested metal when using the SiC points.

Direct binding of F actin to the cytoplasmic domain of the alpha 2 integrin chain in vitro

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kieffer, J. D.; Plopper, G.; Ingber, D. E.; Hartwig, J. H.; Kupper, T. S.

1995-01-01

The transmembrane integrins have been shown to interact with the cytoskeleton via noncovalent binding between cytoplasmic domains (CDs) of integrin beta chains and various actin binding proteins within the focal adhesion complex. Direct or indirect integrin alpha chain CD binding to the actin cytoskeleton has not been reported. We show here that actin, as an abundant constituent of focal adhesion complex proteins isolated from fibroblasts, binds strongly and specifically to alpha 2 CD, but not to alpha 1 CD peptide. Similar specific binding to alpha 2 CD peptide was seen for highly purified F actin, free of putative actin-binding proteins. The bound complex of actin and peptide was visualized directly by coprecipitation, and actin binding was abrogated by removal of a five amino acid sequence from the alpha 2 CD peptide. Our findings may explain the earlier observation that, while integrins alpha 2 beta 1 and alpha 1 beta 1 both bind to collagen, only alpha 2 beta 1 can mediate contraction of extracellular collagen matrices.

Measurement of the {sup 12}C({alpha},{gamma}){sup 16}O reaction at TRIAC

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

Makii, H.; Miyatake, H.; Wakabayashi, Y.

2012-11-12

We have measured the {gamma}-ray angular distribution of the {sup 12}C({alpha},{gamma}){sup 16}O reaction at TRIAC (Tokai Radioactive Ion Accelerator Complex) to accurately determine the E1 and E2 cross sections. In this experiment, we used high efficiency anti-Compton NaI(T1) spectrometers to detect a {gamma}-ray from the reaction with large S/N ratio, intense pulsed {alpha}-beams to discriminate true event from background events due to neutrons from {sup 13}C({alpha},n){sup 16}O reaction with a time-of-flight (TOF) method. We succeeded in removing a background events due to neutrons and clearly detected {gamma}-ray from the {sup 12}C({alpha}{gamma}){sup 16}O reaction with high statistics.

Removal of plutonium and americium from alkaline waste solutions

DOEpatents

Schulz, Wallace W.

1979-01-01

High salt content, alkaline waste solutions containing plutonium and americium are contacted with a sodium titanate compound to effect removal of the plutonium and americium from the alkaline waste solution onto the sodium titanate and provide an effluent having a radiation level of less than 10 nCi per gram alpha emitters.

Appeals court reverses verdict favoring drug companies.

PubMed

1995-06-02

An appeals court reversed a verdict favoring drug companies after the widow of a hemophiliac, whose death was linked to HIV-tainted blood products, sued four pharmaceutical companies to pay damages. The four companies, Alpha Therapeutic Corp., Miles Laboratories Inc., Armour Pharmaceutical Co., and Baxter Travenol Laboratories Inc., provided Factor VIII, a clotting concentrate, to [name removed] [name removed], the plaintiff's husband, from 1972 until his death in 1987. [Name removed]'s wife sued the companies, alleging that the defendants negligently solicited blood plasma from paid donors who had a high risk of having HIV, failed to determine whether any lots of Factor VIII contained plasma from an at-risk donor, failed to warn consumers of possible risks, and failed to heat-treat HIV and other viruses in Factor VIII, despite industry-wide knowledge of the risk of infection. The three-judge panel said the trial judge's decision to avoid ruling on the antigenic stimulation theory, based on insufficient evidence, was improper. In addition, the appeals court said a retrial is necessary because of improper remarks made by Alpha's attorney.

A Plutonium-Contaminated Wound, 1985, USA

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

Doran M. Christensen, DO, REAC /TS Associate Director and Staff Physician Eugene H. Carbaugh, CHP, Staff Scientist, Internal Dosimetry Manager, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, Washington

2012-02-02

A hand injury occurred at a U.S. facility in 1985 involving a pointed shaft (similar to a meat thermometer) that a worker was using to remove scrap solid plutonium from a plastic bottle. The worker punctured his right index finger on the palm side at the metacarpal-phalangeal joint. The wound was not through-and- through, although it was deep. The puncture wound resulted in deposition of ~48 kBq of alpha activity from the weapons-grade plutonium mixture with a nominal 12 to 1 Pu-alpha to {sup 241}Am-alpha ratio. This case clearly showed that DTPA was very effective for decorporation of plutonium andmore » americium. The case is a model for management of wounds contaminated with transuranics: (1) a team approach for dealing with all of the issues surrounding the incident, including the psychological, (2) early surgical intervention for foreign-body removal, (3) wound irrigation with DTPA solution, and (4) early and prolonged DTPA administration based upon bioassay and in vivo dosimetry.« less

Wave-particle interactions in rotating mirrorsa)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fetterman, Abraham J.; Fisch, Nathaniel J.

2011-05-01

Wave-particle interactions in E ×B rotating plasmas feature an unusual effect: particles are diffused by waves in both potential energy and kinetic energy. This wave-particle interaction generalizes the alpha channeling effect, in which radio frequency waves are used to remove alpha particles collisionlessly at low energy. In rotating plasmas, the alpha particles may be removed at low energy through the loss cone, and the energy lost may be transferred to the radial electric field. This eliminates the need for electrodes in the mirror throat, which have presented serious technical issues in past rotating plasma devices. A particularly simple way to achieve this effect is to use a high azimuthal mode number perturbation on the magnetic field. Rotation can also be sustained by waves in plasmas without a kinetic energy source. This type of wave has been considered for plasma centrifuges used for isotope separation. Energy may also be transferred from the electric field to particles or waves, which may be useful for ion heating and energy generation.

Processing of MOPC 315 immunoglobulin A oligosaccharides: evidence for endoplasmic reticulum and trans Golgi alpha 1,2-mannosidase activity

PubMed Central

1984-01-01

The processing of asparagine-linked oligosaccharides on the alpha- chains of an immunoglobulin A (IgA) has been investigated using MOPC 315 murine plasmacytoma cells. These cells secrete IgA containing complex-type oligosaccharides that were not sensitive to endo-beta-N- acetylglucosaminidase H. In contrast, oligosaccharides present on the intracellular alpha-chain precursor were of the high mannose-type, remaining sensitive to endo-beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase H despite a long intracellular half-life of 2-3 h. The major [3H]mannose-labeled alpha-chain oligosaccharides identified after a 20-min pulse were Man8GlcNAc2 and Man9GlcNAc2. Following chase incubations, the major oligosaccharide accumulating intracellularly was Man6GlcNAc2, which was shown to contain a single alpha 1,2-linked mannose residue. Conversion of Man6GlcNAc2 to complex-type oligosaccharides occurred at the time of secretion since appreciable amounts of Man5GlcNAc2 or further processed structures could not be detected intracellularly. The subcellular locations of the alpha 1,2-mannosidase activities were studied using carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenylhydrazone and monensin. Despite inhibiting the secretion of IgA, these inhibitors of protein migration did not effect the initial processing of Man9GlcNAc2 to Man6GlcNAc2. Furthermore, no large accumulation of Man5GlcNAc2 occurred, indicating the presence of two subcellular locations of alpha 1,2-mannosidase activity involved in oligosaccharide processing in MOPC 315 cells. Thus, the first three alpha 1,2-linked mannose residues were removed shortly after the alpha-chain was glycosylated, most likely in rough endoplasmic reticulum, since this processing occurred in the presence of carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenylhydrazone. However, the removal of the final alpha 1,2-linked mannose residue as well as subsequent carbohydrate processing occurred just before IgA secretion, most likely in the trans Golgi complex since processing of Man6GlcNAc2 to Man5GlcNAc2 was greatly inhibited in the presence of monensin. PMID:6420419

Processing of MOPC 315 immunoglobulin A oligosaccharides: evidence for endoplasmic reticulum and trans Golgi alpha 1,2-mannosidase activity.

PubMed

Hickman, S; Theodorakis, J L; Greco, J M; Brown, P H

1984-02-01

The processing of asparagine-linked oligosaccharides on the alpha-chains of an immunoglobulin A (IgA) has been investigated using MOPC 315 murine plasmacytoma cells. These cells secrete IgA containing complex-type oligosaccharides that were not sensitive to endo-beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase H. In contrast, oligosaccharides present on the intracellular alpha-chain precursor were of the high mannose-type, remaining sensitive to endo-beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase H despite a long intracellular half-life of 2-3 h. The major [3H]mannose-labeled alpha-chain oligosaccharides identified after a 20-min pulse were Man8GlcNAc2 and Man9GlcNAc2. Following chase incubations, the major oligosaccharide accumulating intracellularly was Man6GlcNAc2, which was shown to contain a single alpha 1,2-linked mannose residue. Conversion of Man6GlcNAc2 to complex-type oligosaccharides occurred at the time of secretion since appreciable amounts of Man5GlcNAc2 or further processed structures could not be detected intracellularly. The subcellular locations of the alpha 1,2-mannosidase activities were studied using carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenylhydrazone and monensin. Despite inhibiting the secretion of IgA, these inhibitors of protein migration did not effect the initial processing of Man9GlcNAc2 to Man6GlcNAc2. Furthermore, no large accumulation of Man5GlcNAc2 occurred, indicating the presence of two subcellular locations of alpha 1,2-mannosidase activity involved in oligosaccharide processing in MOPC 315 cells. Thus, the first three alpha 1,2-linked mannose residues were removed shortly after the alpha-chain was glycosylated, most likely in rough endoplasmic reticulum, since this processing occurred in the presence of carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenylhydrazone. However, the removal of the final alpha 1,2-linked mannose residue as well as subsequent carbohydrate processing occurred just before IgA secretion, most likely in the trans Golgi complex since processing of Man6GlcNAc2 to Man5GlcNAc2 was greatly inhibited in the presence of monensin.

Two views of the Andromeda Galaxy H-alpha and far infrared

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Devereux, Nicholas A.; Price, Rob; Wells, Lisa A.; Duric, Neb

1994-01-01

A complete H-alpha image of the Andromeda Galaxy (M31) is presented allowing the first direct measurement of the total H-alpha luminosity which is (7.3 +/- 2.4) x 10(exp 6) solar luminosity. The H-alpha emission is associated with three morphologically distinct components; a large scale star-forming ring, approximately 1.65 deg in diameter, contributing 66% of the total H-alpha emission, a bright nucleus contributing 6% of the total H-alpha emission with the remaining 28% contributed by a previously unidentified component of extended and filamentary H-alpha emission interior to the star forming ring. The correspondence between the H-alpha image and the Infrared Astronomy Satellite (IRAS) far-infrared high resolution image is striking when both are convolved to a common resolution of 105 arcsec. The close correspondence between the far-infrared and H-alpha images suggests a common origin for the two emissions. The star-forming ring contributes 70% of the far-infrared luminosity of M31. Evidence that the ring emission is energized by high mass stars includes the fact that peaks in the far-infrared emission coincide identically with H II regions in the H-alpha image. In addition, the far-infrared to H-alpha luminosity ratio within the star-forming ring is similar to what one would expect for H II regions powered by stars of spectral types ranging between O9 and B0. The origin of the filamentary H-alpha and far-infrared luminosity interior to the star-forming ring is less clear, but it is almost certainly not produced by high mass stars.

Effect of progesterone prior to GnRH-PGF2alpha treatment on induction of oestrus and pregnancy in anoestrous Awassi ewes.

PubMed

Husein, M Q; Kridli, R T

2003-06-01

An experiment was conducted to examine the effect of progesterone prior to a GnRH-PGF2alpha treatment on oestrus and pregnancy in seasonally anoestrous Awassi ewes. Twenty-four ewes were randomly assigned to three groups to be pre-treated with 60 mg medroxyprogesterone acetate sponges (group A), 600 mg progesterone sponges (group B) or blank sponges (group C) for 4 days. All ewes were injected with 100 microg of GnRH 24 h after sponge removal followed, 5 days later, by 20 mg PGF2alpha injection. Ewes were exposed to three fertile rams at the time of PGF2alpha injection (day 0, 0 h) and were checked for breeding marks at 6-h intervals for 5 days. Blood samples were collected from all ewes 1 day (day -10) prior to sponge insertion, at the time of sponge removal (day -6), 1 day following sponge removal (day -5, at the time of GnRH injection) and at the time of PGF2alpha injection (day 0) for analysis of progesterone. Progesterone concentrations on days -10 and -5 were basal and averaged 0.2 +/- 0.04 and 0.2 +/- 0.2 ng/ml, respectively. Progesterone concentrations on day -6 were elevated only in group B ewes and were higher (p < 0.0001) than those of groups A and C. Progesterone concentrations on day 0 were higher (p = 0.002) in groups A and B than group C. Oestrous responses occurred only in ewes of groups A and B (p > 0.05). Induced oestrus conception rate was greater (p < 0.01) in group A than groups B and C. Ewes returned to oestrus 17-20 days following day 0 were two of eight, six of eight and three of eight of groups A, B and C, respectively, all of which eventually lambed. The overall lambing rate was 82% in progesterone-primed ewes compared with only 38% non-progesterone-primed ewes (p < 0.05). Progesterone priming apparently sensitizes GnRH-PGF2alpha-treated seasonally anoestrous ewes and increases their response in oestrus and pregnancy rates.

Characterization of the N-linked high-mannose oligosaccharides of the insulin pro-receptor and mature insulin receptor subunits.

PubMed

McElduff, A; Watkinson, A; Hedo, J A; Gorden, P

1986-11-01

The insulin receptor is synthesized as a 190,000-Mr single-chain precursor that contains exclusively asparagine-N-linked high-mannose-type carbohydrate chains. In this study we have characterized the structure of the pro-receptor oligosaccharides. IM-9 lymphocytes were pulse-chase-labelled with [3H]mannose, and the insulin pro-receptor was isolated by immunoprecipitation and SDS/polyacrylamide-gel electrophoresis. The pro-receptor oligosaccharides were removed from the protein backbone with endoglycosidase H and analysed by h.p.l.c. Immediately after a [3H]mannose pulse the largest oligosaccharide found in the pro-receptor was Glc1Man9GlcNAc2; this structure represented only a small fraction (3%) of the total. The predominant oligosaccharides present in the pro-receptor were Man9GlcNAc2 (25%) and Man8GlcNAc2 (48%). Smaller oligosaccharides were also detected: Man7GlcNAc2 (18%), Man6GlcNAc2 (3%) and Man5GlcNAc2 (3%). The relative distribution of the different oligosaccharides did not change at 1, 2 or 3 h after the pulse with the exception of the rapid disappearance of the Glc1Man9GlcNAc2 component. The mature alpha- and beta-subunits of the insulin receptor are known to contain both high-mannose-type and complex-type oligosaccharides. We have also examined here the structure of the high-mannose chains of these subunits. The predominant species in the alpha-subunit was Man8GlcNAc2 whereas in the beta-subunit it was Man7GlcNAc2. These results demonstrate that most (approx. 75%) oligosaccharides of the insulin pro-receptor are chains of the type Man8GlcNAc2 or Man9GlcNAc2. Thus, assuming that a Glc3Man9GlcNAc2 species is transferred co-translationally, carbohydrate processing of the pro-receptor appears to be very rapid and limited to the removal of the three glucose residues and one mannose residue. Further mannose removal does not occur until the pro-receptor has been proteolytically cleaved. In addition, the degree of mannose trimming appears to be different in the alpha- and beta-subunits.

Characterization of the N-linked high-mannose oligosaccharides of the insulin pro-receptor and mature insulin receptor subunits.

PubMed Central

McElduff, A; Watkinson, A; Hedo, J A; Gorden, P

1986-01-01

The insulin receptor is synthesized as a 190,000-Mr single-chain precursor that contains exclusively asparagine-N-linked high-mannose-type carbohydrate chains. In this study we have characterized the structure of the pro-receptor oligosaccharides. IM-9 lymphocytes were pulse-chase-labelled with [3H]mannose, and the insulin pro-receptor was isolated by immunoprecipitation and SDS/polyacrylamide-gel electrophoresis. The pro-receptor oligosaccharides were removed from the protein backbone with endoglycosidase H and analysed by h.p.l.c. Immediately after a [3H]mannose pulse the largest oligosaccharide found in the pro-receptor was Glc1Man9GlcNAc2; this structure represented only a small fraction (3%) of the total. The predominant oligosaccharides present in the pro-receptor were Man9GlcNAc2 (25%) and Man8GlcNAc2 (48%). Smaller oligosaccharides were also detected: Man7GlcNAc2 (18%), Man6GlcNAc2 (3%) and Man5GlcNAc2 (3%). The relative distribution of the different oligosaccharides did not change at 1, 2 or 3 h after the pulse with the exception of the rapid disappearance of the Glc1Man9GlcNAc2 component. The mature alpha- and beta-subunits of the insulin receptor are known to contain both high-mannose-type and complex-type oligosaccharides. We have also examined here the structure of the high-mannose chains of these subunits. The predominant species in the alpha-subunit was Man8GlcNAc2 whereas in the beta-subunit it was Man7GlcNAc2. These results demonstrate that most (approx. 75%) oligosaccharides of the insulin pro-receptor are chains of the type Man8GlcNAc2 or Man9GlcNAc2. Thus, assuming that a Glc3Man9GlcNAc2 species is transferred co-translationally, carbohydrate processing of the pro-receptor appears to be very rapid and limited to the removal of the three glucose residues and one mannose residue. Further mannose removal does not occur until the pro-receptor has been proteolytically cleaved. In addition, the degree of mannose trimming appears to be different in the alpha- and beta-subunits. Images Fig. 1. PMID:3827820

Assessing and conceptualizing frontal EEG asymmetry: An updated primer on recording, processing, analyzing, and interpreting frontal alpha asymmetry.

PubMed

Smith, Ezra E; Reznik, Samantha J; Stewart, Jennifer L; Allen, John J B

2017-01-01

Frontal electroencephalographic (EEG) alpha asymmetry is widely researched in studies of emotion, motivation, and psychopathology, yet it is a metric that has been quantified and analyzed using diverse procedures, and diversity in procedures muddles cross-study interpretation. The aim of this article is to provide an updated tutorial for EEG alpha asymmetry recording, processing, analysis, and interpretation, with an eye towards improving consistency of results across studies. First, a brief background in alpha asymmetry findings is provided. Then, some guidelines for recording, processing, and analyzing alpha asymmetry are presented with an emphasis on the creation of asymmetry scores, referencing choices, and artifact removal. Processing steps are explained in detail, and references to MATLAB-based toolboxes that are helpful for creating and investigating alpha asymmetry are noted. Then, conceptual challenges and interpretative issues are reviewed, including a discussion of alpha asymmetry as a mediator/moderator of emotion and psychopathology. Finally, the effects of two automated component-based artifact correction algorithms-MARA and ADJUST-on frontal alpha asymmetry are evaluated. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

STAR-FORMING GALAXIES IN THE HERCULES CLUSTER: H{alpha} IMAGING OF A2151

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

Cedres, Bernabe; Iglesias-Paramo, Jorge; VIlchez, Jose Manuel

2009-09-15

This paper presents the first results of an H{alpha} imaging survey of galaxies in the central regions of the A2151 cluster. A total of 50 sources were detected in H{alpha}, from which 41 were classified as secure members of the cluster and 2 as likely members based on spectroscopic and photometric redshift considerations. The remaining seven galaxies were classified as background contaminants and thus excluded from our study on the H{alpha} properties of the cluster. The morphologies of the 43 H{alpha} selected galaxies range from grand design spirals and interacting galaxies to blue compacts and tidal dwarfs or isolated extragalacticmore » H II regions, spanning a range of magnitudes of -21 {<=} M{sub B} {<=} -12.5 mag. From these 43 galaxies, 7 have been classified as active galactic nucleus (AGN) candidates. These AGN candidates follow the L(H{alpha}) versus M{sub B} relationship of the normal galaxies, implying that the emission associated with the nuclear engine has a rather secondary impact on the total H{alpha} emission of these galaxies. A comparison with the clusters Coma and A1367 and a sample of field galaxies has shown the presence of cluster galaxies with L(H{alpha}) lower than expected for their M{sub B} , a consequence of the cluster environment. This fact results in differences in the L(H{alpha}) versus EW(H{alpha}) and L(H{alpha}) distributions of the clusters with respect to the field, and in cluster-to-cluster variations of these quantities, which we propose are driven by a global cluster property as the total mass. In addition, the cluster H{alpha} emitting galaxies tend to avoid the central regions of the clusters, again with different intensity depending on the cluster total mass. For the particular case of A2151, we find that most H{alpha} emitting galaxies are located close to the regions with the higher galaxy density, offset from the main X-ray peak. Overall, we conclude that both the global cluster environment and the cluster merging history play a non-negligible role in the integral star formation properties of clusters of galaxies.« less

Mechanism of removal of undesirable residual amylase, insoluble starch, and select colorants from refinery streams by powdered activated carbons

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

There is a need in the world-wide sugar industry to find a practical and economical solution to remove or inactivate residual alpha-amylases that are high temperature stable from factory or refinery streams. A survey of refineries that used amylase and had activated carbon systems for decolorization...

Determination of the volume activity concentration of alpha artificial radionuclides with alpha spectrometer.

PubMed

Liu, B; Zhang, Q; Li, Y

1997-12-01

This paper introduces a method to determine the volume activity concentration of alpha and/or beta artificial radionuclides in the environment and radon/thoron progeny background-compensation based on a Si surface-barrier detector. By measuring the alpha peak counts of 218Po and 214Po in two time intervals, the activity concentration of 218Po, 214Pb and 214Bi aerosol particles were determined; meanwhile, the total beta count of 214Pb and 214Bi aerosols was also calculated from their decay scheme. With the average equilibrium factor of thoron progeny in general environment, the alpha and beta counts of thoron progeny were approximately evaluated by 212Po alpha peak counts. The alpha count of transuranic aerosols was determined by subtracting the trail counts of radon/thoron progeny alpha peaks. The total count of beta artificial radionuclides was determined by subtracting the beta counts of radon/thoron progeny aerosol particles. In our preliminary experiments, if the radon progeny concentration is less than 15 Bq m(-3), the lower limit of detection of transuranics concentration is less than 0.1 Bq m(-3). Even if the radon progeny concentration is as high as 75 Bq m(-3), the lower limit of detection of total beta activity concentration of artificial nuclides aerosols is less than 1 Bq m(-3).

Differential regulation of thyrotropin subunit apoprotein and carbohydrate biosynthesis by thyroid hormone

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

Taylor, T.; Weintraub, B.D.

1985-04-01

The regulation of TSH apoprotein and carbohydrate biosynthesis by thyroid hormone was studied by incubating pituitaries from normal and hypothyroid (3 weeks post-thyroidectomy) rats in medium containing (/sup 14/C)alanine and (/sup 3/H) glucosamine. After 6 h, samples were sequentially treated with anti-TSH beta to precipitate TSH and free TSH beta, anti-LH beta to clear the sample of LH and free LH beta, then anti-LH alpha to precipitate free alpha-subunit. Total proteins were acid precipitated. All precipitates were subjected to electrophoresis on sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gels, which were then sliced and assayed by scintillation spectrometry. In hypothyroid pituitaries plus medium, (/supmore » 14/C)alanine incorporation in combined and free beta-subunits was 26 times normal and considerably greater than the 3.4-fold increase seen in total protein; combined and free alpha-subunits showed no specific increase in apoprotein synthesis. (/sup 3/H)Glucosamine incorporation in combined alpha- and beta-subunits in hypothyroid samples was 13 and 21 times normal, respectively, and was greater than the 1.9-fold increase in total protein; free alpha-subunit showed no specific increase in carbohydrate synthesis. The glucosamine to alanine ratio, reflecting relative glycosylation of newly synthesized molecules, was increased in hypothyroidism for combined alpha-subunits, but not for combined beta-subunits, free alpha-subunits, or total proteins. In summary, short term hypothyroidism selectively stimulated TSH beta apoprotein synthesis and carbohydrate synthesis of combined alpha- and beta-subunits. Hypothyroidism also increased the relative glycosylation of combined alpha-subunit. Thus, thyroid hormone deficiency appears to alter the rate-limiting step in TSH assembly (i.e. beta-subunit synthesis) as well as the carbohydrate structure of TSH, which may play important roles in its biological function.« less

Mechanism Reduction for the Formation of Secondary Organic Aerosol for Integration into a 3-Dimensional Regional Air Quality Model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xia, A.; Michelangeli, D.; Makar, P.

2006-12-01

Secondary Organic Aerosol (SOA) plays an important role in atmospheric chemistry, regional and global climate, and human health. It is important to develop a reduced yet accurate chemical mechanism for the formation of both ozone and SOA in a regional air quality model to alleviate CPU time and memory burden. A subset of a near-explicit Master Chemical Mechanism (MCM v3.1) describing alpha-pinene oxidation (976 reactions and 331 compounds), coupled with a gas/particle absorptive partitioning model, is used as a benchmark for the study of SOA formation within a box model. Results from the detailed mechanism show that total SOA mass decreases as the NOx/HC ratio increases. Aerosol fractions for the PAN-like compounds and the nitrates increase with increasing NOx/HC ratio, and the aerosol fractions for the organic peroxides and organic acids decrease with increasing NOx/HC ratio. In addition, 28 out of 149 condensable products are identified as important compounds for the SOA formation and mechanism reduction purposes. The detailed alpha-pinene oxidation mechanism was reduced systematically through five mechanism reduction techniques, in sequence, to create reduced mechanism preserving the properties of the original mechanism, while using less species. Specifically, a directed relation graph method with error propagation (DRGEP) based on resolving species interaction has been shown, in the first stage, to remove efficiently a large number of redundant species and reactions under a wide range of conditions. Next, the application of principal component analysis (PCA) of the rate sensitivity matrix and the use of quasi-steady-state approximation (QSSA) have been used to eliminate some reactions and remove some QSS species, respectively. The fourth stage is to use an iterative screening method to remove redundant species and reactions simultaneously. Last, a new lumping approach, depended on the NOx/HC ratio, is developed and implemented to reduce the number of species in the final stage. This methodology results in a reduction ratio of 3 for the number of species and reactions compared with the full mechanism. The simplified mechanism is demonstrated to reproduce well the important gas and aerosol phase species, four functional groups (PANs, Nitrates, organic peroxides, and organic acids), and the total SOA mass accurately within 16% under a wide range of conditions.

Activated release of membrane-anchored TGF-alpha in the absence of cytosol

PubMed Central

1993-01-01

The ectodomain of proTGF-alpha, a membrane-anchored growth factor, is converted into soluble TGF-alpha by a regulated cellular proteolytic system that recognizes proTGF-alpha via the C-terminal valine of its cytoplasmic tail. In order to define the biochemical components involved in proTGF-alpha cleavage, we have used cells permeabilized with streptolysin O (SLO) that have been extensively washed to remove cytosol. PMA, acting through a Ca(2+)-independent protein kinase C, activates cleavage as efficiently in permeabilized cells as it does in intact cells. ProTGF-alpha cleavage is also stimulated by GTP gamma S through a mechanism whose pharmacological properties suggest the involvement of a heterotrimeric G protein acting upstream of the PMA- sensitive Ca(2+)-independent protein kinase C. Activated proTGF-alpha cleavage is dependent on ATP hydrolysis, appears not to require vesicular traffic, and acts specifically on proTGF-alpha that has reached the cell surface. These results indicate that proTGF-alpha is cleaved from the cell surface by a regulated system whose signaling, recognition, and proteolytic components are retained in cells devoid of cytosol. PMID:8314849

Changes in alpha-L-arabinofuranosidase activity in peel and pulp of banana (Musa sp.) fruits during ripening and softening.

PubMed

Zhuang, Jun-Ping; Su, Jing; Li, Xue-Ping; Chen, Wei-Xin

2007-04-01

Arabinose is one of the most dynamic cell wall glycosyl residues released during fruit ripening, alpha-L-arabinofuranosidase (alpha-Arab) are major glycosidases that may remove arabinose units from fruit cell wall polysaccharides. To find out whether alpha-Arab plays important roles in banana fruit softening, the enzyme activities in peel and pulp, fruit firmness, respiration rate and ethylene release rate were assayed during banana softening. The results showed that alpha-Arab activities in banana pulp and peel increased slightly at the beginning of storage and reached their maxima when the fruit firmness decreased drastically, alpha-Arab activity increased by more than ten folds in both pulp and peel during ripening and alpha-Arab activities were higher in pulp than in peel. Treatment of banana fruits with ethylene absorbent postponed the time of reaching of its maxima of respiration and ethylene, enhanced the firmness of pup and decreased alpha-Arab activity in the peel and pulp. These results suggest that alpha-Arab induced the decrease of fruit firmness and played an important role in banana fruit softening, and its activity was regulated by ethylene.

Influence of environmental factors and air composition on the emission of {alpha}-pinene from Quercus ilex leaves

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

Loreto, F.; Tricoli, D.; Ciccioli, P.

1996-01-01

We studied the emission of {alpha}-pinene from Quercus ilex leaves. Only the abaxial side of the hypostomatous Q. ilex leaf emits {alpha}-pinene. Light induced photosynthesis and {alpha}-pinene emission. However, the response of photosynthesis to dark-to-light transitions was faster than that of {alpha}-pinene, suggesting that ATP controls the emission. The emission was higher at 30 than at 20{degrees}C, whereas photosynthesis did not change. Therefore, the relationship between photosynthesis and {alpha}-pinene emission does not always hold. When CO{sub 2} was removed from the air, transpiration was stimulated and transpiration was reduced, but {alpha}-pinene emission was unaffected. Therefore, the emission depends on themore » availability of photosynthetic carbon, is not saturated at ambient CO{sub 2}, and is not dependent on stomatal opening. The pattern of {alpha}-pinene emission from Q. ilex is different from that of plants having specialized structures for storage and emission of terpenes. We suggest that {alpha}-pinene emitted by Q. ilex leaves is synthesized in the chloroplasts and shares the same biochemical pathway with isoprene emitted by isoprene-emitting oak species. 28 refs., 8 figs., 1 tab.« less

Removal of Long-Lived Radon Daughters by Electropolishing Thin Layers of Stainless Steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

White, James; Schnee, Richard; Bunker, Raymond; Bowles, Michael; Cushman, Priscilla; Epland, Matthew; Pepin, Mark; Guiseppe, Vince

2012-10-01

Long-lived alpha and beta emitters in the Radon decay chain on detector surfaces may be limiting background in many experiments attempting to detect dark matter or neutrinoless double beta decay. To screen detector surfaces for this radioactive contamination, a low-radiation, multi-wire proportional chamber (the BetaCage) is under construction. Removal of Pb-210 implanted on its 25-micron stainless steel wires without causing significant variation in the diameter of the wires is critical to the BetaCage's ultimate sensitivity. An apparatus to perform electropolishing trials to remove roughly a micron of material has been assembled. These trials have shown promising results. Stainless steel square samples implanted with Pb-210 have shown counts with a reduction factor greater than 10 after electropolishing according to gamma assay. Furthermore, alpha counting has produced similar results, with a reduction factor greater than 100. Lastly, the diameters of wires after electropolishing have remained sufficiently uniform, with reduction in thickness consistent with expectations.

Inbreeding coefficients and degree of consanguineous marriages in Spain: a review.

PubMed

Fuster, Vicente; Colantonio, Sonia Edith

2003-01-01

The contribution of consanguineous marriages corresponding to uncle-niece or aunt-nephew (C12), first cousin (C22), first cousin once removed (C23), and second cousin (C33) to the inbreeding coefficient (alpha) was analyzed from a sample of Spanish areas and periods. Multiple regressions were performed taking as independent variables the different degrees of consanguinity previously selected (C12, C22, C23, and C33) and as dependent variable the inbreeding coefficient (alpha). According to the results obtained for any degree and period, rural frequencies always surpass urban. However, the pattern is similar in both areas. In the period where consanguinity was more elevated (1890-1929) the C22/C33 ratio increased. Its variation is not due to C22 and C33 changes in the same way. In rural areas, this ratio surpasses the expected value by a factor of 2-3, but in urban areas it was 7-10 times larger, in some cases due to migration. While in rural Spain the C33 frequency was approximately 1.5 times C22, in cities C22 was 1.5 times C33. The best fit among the various types of consanguineous matings and alpha involves a lineal relationship. Regardless of the number of variables contributing significantly to alpha, C22 matings are always present. Moreover, their standardized (beta) coefficients are the highest. The above indicates that this consanguineous relationship conditions the inbreeding coefficient the most. In the period of greater consanguinity, close relationships, uncle-niece C12, and first cousin once removed (C23) make a significant contribution to alpha. In rural Spain second cousins (C33) always significantly determined alpha; however, in cities the inbreeding variation was mainly due to C12 and C23. Copyright 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Prediction of scuffing failure based on competitive kinetics of oxide formation and removal: Application to lubricated sliding of AISI 52100 steel on steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cutiongco, Eric C.; Chung, Yip-Wah

1994-07-01

A method for predicting scuffing failure based on the competitive kinetics of oxide formation and removal has been developed and applied to the sliding of AISI 52100 steel on steel with poly-alpha-olefin as the lubricant. Oxide formation rates were determining using static oxidation tests on coupons of 52100 steel covered with poly-alpha-olefin at temperatures of 140 C to 250 C. Oxide removal rates were determined at different combinations of initial average nominal contact pressures (950 MPa to 1578 MPa) and sliding velocities (0.4 m/s to 1.8 m/s) using a ball-on-disk vacuum tribotester. The nominal asperity flash temperatures generated during the wear tests were calculated and the temperatures corresponding to the intersection of the the Arrhenius plots of oxide formation and removal rates were determined and taken as the critical failure temperatures. The pressure-velocity failure transition diagram was constructed by plotting the critical failure temperatures along isotherms of average nominal asperity flash temperatures calculated at different combinations of contact stress and sliding speed. The predicted failure transition curve agreed well with experimental scuffing data.

Experimental evidence of {alpha}-olefin readsorption in Fischer-Tropsch synthesis on ruthenium-supported ETS-10 titanium silicate catalysts

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

Bianchi, C.L.; Ragaini, V.

1997-05-01

Fischer-Tropsch synthesis seems to develop the following two consecutive paths: a primary process that involves the formation of {alpha}-olefin products and a secondary process leading to the production of branched isomers and paraffins and requiring the readsorption of primary {alpha}-olefin products. It was already shown by Iglesia et al. that such readsorption steps are of fundamental importance for Ru catalysts and that they occur due to the slow diffusive removal of {alpha}-olefins when the molecular size increases, this resulting in a long intraparticle residence time. In the present paper {alpha}-olefins readsorption was enhanced by changing the metal distribution inside themore » pores of a titanium silicate (ETS-10), modified by ion exchange with alkali metal ions, used as a support for Ru-based catalysts. 24 refs., 5 figs., 3 tabs.« less

Determination and fate of oxytetracycline and related compounds in oxytetracycline production wastewater and the receiving river.

PubMed

Li, Dong; Yang, Min; Hu, Jianying; Ren, Liren; Zhang, Yu; Li, Kuiziao

2008-01-01

This study investigated the occurrence and fate of oxytetracycline (OTC) and its related substances, 4-epi-oxytetracycline (EOTC), alpha-apo-oxytetracycline (alpha-apo-OTC), and beta-apo-oxytetracycline (beta-apo-OTC), in a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) treating OTC production wastewater and a river receiving the effluent from the WWTP using liquid chromatography electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS). The percent removal of OTC in the WWTP was 38.0 +/- 10.5%, and the concentration of OTC was still up to 19.5 +/- 2.9 mg/L in the treated outflow. The concentration slightly decreased along the river, from 641 +/- 118 microg/L at site R2 (discharging point) to 377 +/- 142 microg/L at site R4 ( approximately 20 km from site R2), which was still higher than the minimal inhibition concentration of OTC reported ( approximately 250 microg/L). On the other hand, the total amount of its related substances in the treated effluent was less than 5% of OTC. Concentrations of alpha-apo-OTC and beta-apo-OTC increased along the river, from 5.76 +/- 0.63 and 2.08 +/- 0.30 microg/L at site R2 to 11.9 +/- 4.9 and 12.0 +/- 4.6 microg/L at R4, respectively, although EOTC decreased from 31.5 +/- 3.8 to 12.9 +/- 1.1 microg/L, respectively. The mean concentration of beta-apo-OTC in river sediments was 20.8 +/- 7.8 mg/kg, and its ratio to OTC was approximately 0.11, nearly twice the ratio of alpha-apo-OTC and EOTC to OTC (0.058 +/- 0.014 and 0.061 +/- 0.015, respectively).

Influence of dietary long-chain n-3 fatty acids from menhaden fish oil on plasma concentrations of alpha-tocopherol in geriatric beagles.

PubMed

Hall, Jean A; Tooley, Katie A; Gradin, Joseph L; Jewell, Dennis E; Wander, Rosemary C

2002-01-01

To determine effects of dietary n-3 fatty acids from Menhaden fish oil on plasma alpha-tocopherol concentrations in Beagles. 32 female Beagles. For 82 days, dogs were fed diets that contained 1 of 2 ratios of n-6:n-3 fatty acids (40:1 [low n-3] and 1.4:1 [high n-3]) and 1 of 3 concentrations of all-rac-alpha-tocopheryl acetate (low, 17 mg/kg of diet; medium, 101 mg/kg; and high, 447 mg/kg) in a 2 X 3 factorial study. Diets high in n-3 fatty acids significantly increased total content of n-3 fatty acids in plasma (17.0 g/100 g of fatty acids), compared with low n-3 diets (2.02 g/100 g of fatty acids). Mean +/- SEM plasma concentration of cholesterol was significantly lower in dogs consuming high n-3 diets (4.59 +/- 0.48 mmol/L), compared with dogs consuming low n-3 diets (5.71 +/- 0.48 mmol/L). A significant interaction existed between the ratio for n-6 and n-3 fatty acids and amount of alpha-tocopheryl acetate in the diet (plasma alpha-tocopherol concentration expressed on a molar basis), because the plasma concentration of alpha-toco-pherol was higher in dogs consuming low n-3 diets, compared with those consuming high n-3 diets, at the 2 higher amounts of dietary alpha-tocopheryl acetate. Plasma alpha-tocopherol concentration expressed relative to total lipid content did not reveal effects of dietary n-3 fatty acids on concentration of alpha-tocopherol. Plasma alpha-tocopherol concentration is not dependent on dietary ratio of n-6 and n-3 fatty acids when alpha-tocopherol concentration is expressed relative to the total lipid content of plasma.

Regulation of G-protein coupled receptor traffic by an evolutionary conserved hydrophobic signal.

PubMed

Angelotti, Tim; Daunt, David; Shcherbakova, Olga G; Kobilka, Brian; Hurt, Carl M

2010-04-01

Plasma membrane (PM) expression of G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) is required for activation by extracellular ligands; however, mechanisms that regulate PM expression of GPCRs are poorly understood. For some GPCRs, such as alpha2c-adrenergic receptors (alpha(2c)-ARs), heterologous expression in non-native cells results in limited PM expression and extensive endoplasmic reticulum (ER) retention. Recently, ER export/retentions signals have been proposed to regulate cellular trafficking of several GPCRs. By utilizing a chimeric alpha(2a)/alpha(2c)-AR strategy, we identified an evolutionary conserved hydrophobic sequence (ALAAALAAAAA) in the extracellular amino terminal region that is responsible in part for alpha(2c)-AR subtype-specific trafficking. To our knowledge, this is the first luminal ER retention signal reported for a GPCR. Removal or disruption of the ER retention signal dramatically increased PM expression and decreased ER retention. Conversely, transplantation of this hydrophobic sequence into alpha(2a)-ARs reduced their PM expression and increased ER retention. This evolutionary conserved hydrophobic trafficking signal within alpha(2c)-ARs serves as a regulator of GPCR trafficking.

Radon Monitoring in Army Stand-Alone Housing Units

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-04-01

greater damage to tissues. The internal exposures to alpha radiation resulting from inhalation of radioactive radon daughters (adsorbed onto airborne...appropriate detector, the monitor can measure all or some of the radon daughters adsorbed onto airborne, respirable dust particles. As with the 3...input to the cell is equipped with a 0.8-rim micropore filter that3removes any solid radon daughters from the air stream. Alpha I 26 Final Report, April

Data traffic reduction schemes for sparse Cholesky factorizations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Naik, Vijay K.; Patrick, Merrell L.

1988-01-01

Load distribution schemes are presented which minimize the total data traffic in the Cholesky factorization of dense and sparse, symmetric, positive definite matrices on multiprocessor systems with local and shared memory. The total data traffic in factoring an n x n sparse, symmetric, positive definite matrix representing an n-vertex regular 2-D grid graph using n (sup alpha), alpha is equal to or less than 1, processors are shown to be O(n(sup 1 + alpha/2)). It is O(n(sup 3/2)), when n (sup alpha), alpha is equal to or greater than 1, processors are used. Under the conditions of uniform load distribution, these results are shown to be asymptotically optimal. The schemes allow efficient use of up to O(n) processors before the total data traffic reaches the maximum value of O(n(sup 3/2)). The partitioning employed within the scheme, allows a better utilization of the data accessed from shared memory than those of previously published methods.

Improving the performance of membrane bioreactors by powdered activated carbon dosing with cost considerations.

PubMed

Yang, W; Paetkau, M; Cicek, N

2010-01-01

Effects of powdered activated carbon (PAC) dosing on the overall performance of membrane bioreactors (MBR) were investigated in two bench-scale submerged MBRs. Positive impacts of PAC dosing on membrane fouling and the removal of 17beta-estradiol (E2) and 17alpha-ethyinylestradiol (EE2) were demonstrated over a six-month stable operational period. PAC dosing in the MBR increased the removal rates of E2 and EE2 by 3.4% and 15.8%, respectively. The average soluble extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) and colloidal total organic carbon (TOC) concentrations in the PAC-MBR sludge was 60.1% and 61.8% lower than the control MBR sludge, respectively. Lower soluble EPS and colloidal TOC concentrations in the PAC-MBR sludge resulted in a slower rate of trans-membrane pressure (TMP) increase during MBRs operation, which could prolong the lifespan of membranes. Cost assessment showed that PAC dosing could reduce the operating cost for membrane cleaning and/or membrane replacement by about 25%. The operating cost for PAC dosing could be offset by the benefit from its reducing the cost for membrane maintenance.

Age-dependent loss of the C-terminal amino acid from alpha crystallin

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Emmons, T.; Takemoto, L.; Spooner, B. S. (Principal Investigator)

1992-01-01

Antiserum made against the C-terminal region of alpha-A crystallin was used to monitor the purification of a tryptic peptide containing the C-terminus of the molecule from fetal versus adult bovine lenses. Mass spectral analysis of the peptide preparations obtained from these lenses demonstrated the presence of a peptide (T20) containing an intact C-terminus from fetal lenses and the presence of an additional peptide (T20') from older lenses that contained a cleaved C-terminal serine. These results demonstrate an age-dependent processing of alpha-A crystallin in the bovine lens, resulting in removal of the C-terminal amino acid residue.

Molecular diversity of mesophilic and thermophilic bacteria in a membrane bioreactor determined by fluorescent in situ hybridization with mxaF- and rRNA-targeted probes.

PubMed

Dias, João Carlos T; Silva, Cláudio M; Mounteer, Ann H; Passos, Flavia M L; Linardi, Valter R

2003-01-01

An evaluation of the efficiency of treatment of kraft mill foul condensates in a membrane bioreactor was carried out in the laboratory. Efficiency and rate of methanol removal were quantified at operating temperatures of 35, 45 and 55 degrees C. The structure of the bacterial community present in the reactor biomass at the different operating temperatures was evaluated by in situ hybridization of the biomass samples with fluorescently-labelled probes (FISH) targeting the Eubacteria, the alpha, beta and gamma subclasses of the Proteobacteria, the low G + C content Gram-positive bacteria (Bacillus spp.), while community function was evaluated by in situ hybridization with a methanol dehydrogenase gene (mxaF) probe. Methanol removal efficiency decreased from 99.4 to 92%, and removal rate from 2.69 mg MeOH/l x min to 2.49 mg MeOH/l x min when the operating temperature was increased from 35 to 55 degrees C. This decrease in methanol removal was accompanied by a decrease (from 58% to 42%) in the relative proportion of cells that hybridized with the mxaF probe. The relative proportion of Bacillus spp. increased from 5 to 20% while the proportion of members of the alpha subclass of Proteobacteria decreased from 16% to 6% when the bioreactor operating temperature was raised from 35 to 55 degrees C. The relative proportions of bacteria belonging to the beta (22-25%) and gamma (18-20%) subclasses of the Proteobacteria remained relatively constant regardless of operating temperature. Proteobacteria (alpha, beta and gamma subclasses) and Bacillus spp. represented 61, 67 and 71% of the Eubacteria in the biomass sampled at 35, 45 and 55 degrees C, respectively. The FISH technique was shown to be an efficient method for detection of both structural and functional changes in the bacterial communities that could be related to efficiency of methanol removal in a membrane bioreactor operating at different temperatures.

Total enzymatic synthesis of cholecystokinin CCK-5.

PubMed

Xiang, H; Xiang, G Y; Lu, Z M; Guo, L; Eckstein, H

2004-08-01

This paper describes the enzymatic synthesis of the C-terminal fragment H-Gly-Trp-Met-Asp-Phe-NH2 of cholecystokinin. Immobilized enzymes were used for the formation of all peptide bonds except thermolysin. Beginning the synthesis with phenylacetyl (PhAc) glycine carboxamidomethyl ester (OCam) and H-Trp-OMe by using immobilized papain as biocatalyst in buffered ethyl acetate, the dipeptide methyl ester was then coupled directly with Met-OEt.HCl by alpha-chymotrypsin/Celite 545 in a solvent free system. For the 3+2 coupling PhAc-Gly-Trp-Met-OEt had to be converted into its OCam ester. The other fragment H-Asp(OMe)-Phe-NH2 resulted from the coupling of Cbo-Asp(OMe)-OH with H-Phe-NH2.HCl and thermolysin as catalyst, followed by catalytic hydrogenation. Finally PhAc-Gly-Trp-Met-Asp-Phe-NH2 was obtained in a smooth reaction from PhAc-Gly-Trp-Met-OCam and H-Asp(OMe)-Phe-NH2 with alpha-chymotrypsin/Celite 545 in acetonitrile, followed by basic hydrolysis of the beta-methyl ester. The PhAc-group is removed with penicillin G amidase and CCK-5 is obtained in an overall isolated yield of 19.6%.

Synthetic mucin fragments: synthesis of O-sulfo and O-methyl derivatives of allyl O-(beta-D-galactopyranosyl)-(1-->3)-2-acetamido-2-deoxy-alpha-D- galactopyranoside as potential compounds for sulfotransferases.

PubMed

Jain, R K; Piskorz, C F; Matta, K L

1995-10-02

Allyl 2-acetamido-4,6-O-(4-methoxybenzylidene)-2-deoxy-alpha-D-galact opy ranoside (1) was condensed with either 2,3,4,6-tetra-O-acetyl-alpha-D-galactopyranosyl bromide (2) or 2,3,4-tri-O-benzoyl-6-O-bromoacetyl-alpha-D-galactopyranosyl bromide (14) in the presence of mercuric cyanide. Selective substitution with methyl, sulfo or both at desired positions, followed by the removal of protecting groups, afforded allyl O-(beta-D-galactopyranosyl)-(1-->3)-2-acetamido-2-deoxy-6-O-methyl-alpha -D- galactopyranoside (5), allyl O-(6-O-sulfo-beta-D-galactopyranosyl sodium salt)-(1-->3)-2-acetamido-2-deoxy-6- O-methyl-alpha-D-galactopyranoside (10), allyl O-(beta-D-galactopyranosyl)-(1-->3)-2-acetamido-2-deoxy-6-O-sulfo-alpha- D- galactopyranoside sodium salt (13), allyl O-(6-O-sulfo-beta-D-galactopyranosyl sodium salt)-(1-->3)-2-acetamido-2-deoxy- alpha-D-galactopyranoside (17) and allyl O-(3-O-sulfo-beta-D-galactopyranosyl sodium salt)-(1-->3)-2-acetamido-2-deoxy- alpha-D-galactopyranoside (22). The structures of compounds 5, 10, 13, 17 and 22 were established by 13C NMR and FAB mass spectroscopy.

Tank 241-AP-105, cores 208, 209 and 210, analytical results for the final report

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

Nuzum, J.L.

1997-10-24

This document is the final laboratory report for Tank 241-AP-105. Push mode core segments were removed from Risers 24 and 28 between July 2, 1997, and July 14, 1997. Segments were received and extruded at 222-S Laboratory. Analyses were performed in accordance with Tank 241-AP-105 Push Mode Core Sampling and Analysis Plan (TSAP) (Hu, 1997) and Tank Safety Screening Data Quality Objective (DQO) (Dukelow, et al., 1995). None of the subsamples submitted for total alpha activity (AT), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis, or total organic carbon (TOC) analysis exceeded the notification limits as stated in TSAP and DQO. The statisticalmore » results of the 95% confidence interval on the mean calculations are provided by the Tank Waste Remediation Systems Technical Basis Group, and are not considered in this report. Appearance and Sample Handling Two cores, each consisting of four segments, were expected from Tank 241-AP-105. Three cores were sampled, and complete cores were not obtained. TSAP states core samples should be transported to the laboratory within three calendar days from the time each segment is removed from the tank. This requirement was not met for all cores. Attachment 1 illustrates subsamples generated in the laboratory for analysis and identifies their sources. This reference also relates tank farm identification numbers to their corresponding 222-S Laboratory sample numbers.« less

Effect of Interleukin-1beta and Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha on Gene Expression in Human Endothelial Cells

DTIC Science & Technology

2003-06-01

type Ill, alpha 1 ( Ehlers - Danlos syndrome type IV, autosomal dominant) T98612 multimerin AA423867 ribonuclease, RNase A family, 1 (pancreatic...tax-responsive enhancer element 967) AA600217 jagged1 (Alagille syndrome ) R70685 TNF receptor-associated factor 1 R71691 glycyl-tRNA synthetase...in patients succumbing to sepsis and systemic inflamma- tion. The effects of removing one syndrome -causing agent may be compensated by others with

Protective effect of alpha-lipoic acid in methotrexate-induced ovarian oxidative injury and decreased ovarian reserve in rats.

PubMed

Soylu Karapinar, Oya; Pinar, Neslihan; Özcan, Oğuzhan; Özgür, Tümay; Dolapçıoğlu, Kenan

2017-08-01

To determine whether the possible oxidative effect of methotrexate (Mtx) on ovary and to evaluate the effectiveness of alpha lipoic acid (ALA), which may be useful in many oxidative stress models. Thirty-two female Wistar-albino rats were randomly divided into four groups; control group, alpha lipoic acid group (ALA 100 mg/kg, 10 days), multiple dose Mtx group (Mtx 1 mg/kg 1, 3, 5, 7 days) and Mtx and ALA group (Mtx 1 mg/kg 1, 3, 5, 7 days and ALA 100 mg/kg, 10 days). Serum total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS) and oxidative stress index (OSI), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), tissue malondialdehyde (MDA) and activities of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and catalase (CAT) and anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) and total ovarian follicle count were evaluated. Mtx administration caused a significant decrease in TAS, a significant increase in TOS and OSI, a significant increase in MDA levels and a decrease in GSH-Px and CAT activity. Moreover the proinflammatory cytokine (TNF-α) was increased in the Mtx group. And AMH values and total follicle count were significantly decreased in Mtx group. However, ALA treatment reversed biochemical results and AMH levels and total follicle count. Alpha lipoic acid ameliorates methotrexate induced oxidative damage of ovarian in rats.

Bio-discrimination of alpha-tocopherol stereoisomers in rearing and veal calves fed milk replacer supplemented with all-rac-alpha-tocopheryl acetate.

PubMed

Dersjant-Li, Y; Jensen, S K; Bos, L W; Peisker, M R

2009-07-01

This study evaluated the biological discrimination of different alpha-tocopherol stereoisomers (i. e. RRR-, RRS-, RSR-, RSS- and the four 2S-alpha-tocopherols) from all-rac-alpha-tocopheryl acetate supplementation in milk replacer for rearing and veal calves respectively, in practical farming conditions. Two experiments were conducted. In experiment 1, six rearing calves were fed milk replacer supplemented with 80 mg/kg all-rac-alpha-tocopheryl acetate for a period of 9 weeks. The calves were supplied calf starter concentrate from 1 to 12 weeks. In experiment 2, six veal calves were fed milk replacer supplemented with 80 mg/kg all-rac-alpha-tocopheryl acetate for a period of 24 weeks. Blood samples were taken at the start and every 4 weeks until 12 weeks for rearing calves in experiment 1, and until slaughter (24 weeks) for veal calves in experiment 2. Liver, adipose, muscle, and brain samples were taken at slaughter of the six veal calves in experiment 2. The distribution of different alpha-tocopherol stereoisomers in feed, plasma, and tissues was analyzed. In both experiments, it was observed that RRR-alpha-tocopherol was the dominant stereoisomer in plasma and tissues. The average percentage of the RRR-alpha-tocopherol stereoisomer was 64 %, and 39 % of the total alpha-tocopherol in plasma for rearing and veal calves, respectively. The higher RRR-alpha-tocopherol stereoisomer proportion as percentage of the total alpha-tocopherol in rearing calves was related to higher dietary natural vitamin E intake. Other 2R-alpha-tocopherol stereoisomers had lower utilization efficiency than RRR-alpha-tocopherol stereoisomer. 2S-alpha-tocopherol stereoisomers were basically not utilized by calves.

Graphitic Carbon Materials Tailored for the Rapid Adsorption of Biomolecules

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pescatore, Nicholas A.

Sepsis is an overactive inflammatory response to an infection, with 19 million cases estimated worldwide and causing organ dysfunction if left untreated. Three pro-inflammatory cytokines are seen from literature review as vital biomarkers for sepsis and are interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), which have the potential to be removed by hemoperfusion. This thesis examines carbon nanomaterials for their adsorption capabilities in the search for an optimal material for blood cleansing hemoperfusion application, such as mediating the effects of sepsis. Non-porous and porous carbon polymorphs and their properties are investigated in this thesis for their protein adsorption capabilities. Polymer-derived mesoporous carbons were compared to non-porous graphene nanoplatelets (GNP's) to observe changes in adsorption capacity for cytokines between porous and non-porous materials. GNP's were functionalized via high temperature vacuum annealing, air oxidation, acid oxidation and amination treatments to understand the effect of surface chemistry on adsorption. For practical use in a hemoperfusion column, polymer-derived carbon beads and composite materials such as cryogel and PTFE-GNP composites were designed and tested for their adsorption capacity. At concentrations of IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-alpha seen in septic patients, these cytokines were completely removed from the blood after 5 minutes of incubation with GNP's. Overall, a low-cost, scalable carbon adsorbent was found to provide a novel approach of rapidly removing pro-inflammatory cytokines from septic patients.

Thyroid hormonal disturbances related to treatment of hepatitis C with interferon-alpha and ribavirin

PubMed Central

Danilovic, Debora Lucia Seguro; Mendes-Correa, Maria Cassia; Chammas, Maria Cristina; Zambrini, Heverton; Marui, Suemi

2011-01-01

OBJECTIVE: To characterize thyroid disturbances induced by interferon-alpha and ribavirin therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis C. INTRODUCTION: Interferon-alpha is used to treat chronic hepatitis C infections. This compound commonly induces both autoimmune and non-autoimmune thyroiditis. METHODS: We prospectively selected 26 patients with chronic hepatitis C infections. Clinical examinations, hormonal evaluations, and color-flow Doppler ultrasonography of the thyroid were performed before and during antiviral therapy. RESULTS: Of the patients in our study, 54% had no thyroid disorders associated with the interferon-alpha therapy but showed reduced levels of total T3 along with a decrease in serum alanine aminotransferase. Total T4 levels were also reduced at 3 and 12 months, but free T4 and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels remained stable. A total of 19% of the subjects had autoimmune interferon-induced thyroiditis, which is characterized by an emerge of antithyroid antibodies or overt hypothyroidism. Additionally, 16% had non-autoimmune thyroiditis, which presents as destructive thyroiditis or subclinical hypothyroidism, and 11% remained in a state of euthyroidism despite the prior existence of antithyroidal antibodies. Thyrotoxicosis with destructive thyroiditis was diagnosed within three months of therapy, and ultrasonography of these patients revealed thyroid shrinkage and discordant change in the vascular patterns. DISCUSSION: Decreases in the total T3 and total T4 levels may be related to improvements in the hepatocellular lesions or inflammatory changes similar to those associated with nonthyroidal illnesses. The immune mechanisms and direct effects of interferon-alpha can be associated with thyroiditis. CONCLUSION: Interferon-alpha and ribavirin induce autoimmune and non-autoimmune thyroiditis and hormonal changes (such as decreased total T3 and total T4 levels), which occur despite stable free T4 and TSH levels. A thyroid hormonal evaluation, including the analysis of the free T4, TSH, and antithyroid antibody levels, should be mandatory before therapy, and an early re-evaluation within three months of treatment is necessary as an appropriate follow-up. PMID:22012048

Thyroid hormonal disturbances related to treatment of hepatitis C with interferon-alpha and ribavirin.

PubMed

Danilovic, Debora Lucia Seguro; Mendes-Correa, Maria Cassia; Chammas, Maria Cristina; Zambrini, Heverton; Marui, Suemi

2011-01-01

To characterize thyroid disturbances induced by interferon-alpha and ribavirin therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis C. Interferon-alpha is used to treat chronic hepatitis C infections. This compound commonly induces both autoimmune and non-autoimmune thyroiditis. We prospectively selected 26 patients with chronic hepatitis C infections. Clinical examinations, hormonal evaluations, and color-flow Doppler ultrasonography of the thyroid were performed before and during antiviral therapy. Of the patients in our study, 54% had no thyroid disorders associated with the interferon-alpha therapy but showed reduced levels of total T3 along with a decrease in serum alanine aminotransferase. Total T4 levels were also reduced at 3 and 12 months, but free T4 and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels remained stable. A total of 19% of the subjects had autoimmune interferon-induced thyroiditis, which is characterized by an emerge of antithyroid antibodies or overt hypothyroidism. Additionally, 16% had non-autoimmune thyroiditis, which presents as destructive thyroiditis or subclinical hypothyroidism, and 11% remained in a state of euthyroidism despite the prior existence of antithyroidal antibodies. Thyrotoxicosis with destructive thyroiditis was diagnosed within three months of therapy, and ultrasonography of these patients revealed thyroid shrinkage and discordant change in the vascular patterns. Decreases in the total T3 and total T4 levels may be related to improvements in the hepatocellular lesions or inflammatory changes similar to those associated with nonthyroidal illnesses. The immune mechanisms and direct effects of interferon-alpha can be associated with thyroiditis. Interferon-alpha and ribavirin induce autoimmune and non-autoimmune thyroiditis and hormonal changes (such as decreased total T3 and total T4 levels), which occur despite stable free T4 and TSH levels. A thyroid hormonal evaluation, including the analysis of the free T4, TSH, and antithyroid antibody levels, should be mandatory before therapy, and an early re-evaluation within three months of treatment is necessary as an appropriate follow-up.

Enzymatic degradation of oligosaccharides in pinto bean flour.

PubMed

Song, Danfeng; Chang, Sam K C

2006-02-22

The use of dry edible beans is limited due to the presence of flatulence factors, the raffinose oligosaccharides. Our objective was to investigate the process for the removal of oligosaccharides from pinto bean using enzymatic treatment and to compare it to removal by soaking and cooking methods. Crude enzyme preparation was produced by six fungal species on wheat bran- and okara-based substrates with soy tofu whey. The loss of raffinose oligosaccharides after soaking pinto beans for 16 h at the room temperature was 10%, after cooking for 90 min was 52%, and after autoclaving for 30 min was 58%. On the other hand, the treatment using crude alpha-galactosidase (60 U mL(-1)) produced by Aspergillus awamori NRRL 4869 from wheat bran-based substrate with soy tofu whey on pinto bean flour for 2 h completely hydrolyzed raffinose oligosaccharides. These results supported that the enzymatic treatment was the most effective among various processing methods tested for removing the raffinose oligosaccharides, and hence, crude alpha-galactosidases from fungi have potential use in the food industry.

Stellar lyman alpha emission and the local interstellar medium

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Simon, Theodore

1992-01-01

Under the auspices of this ADP program, a systematic study was made of IUE archival images in order to extract spectra of the Lyman alpha region and to measure the stellar Lyman alpha flux for as many late-type stars as possible. The Lyman alpha resonance line is a powerful cooling channel for the hot chromospheres of solar-type stars, but has not been studied before in any systematic fashion across the H-R diagram. A major deterrent which has limited the use of Lyman alpha in the study of stellar chromospheres is the contamination of this spectral feature caused by the scattering of solar Lyman alpha photons in the Earth's exosphere. This scattered light is monochromatically imaged through the entrance slot of the IUE telescope and is superposed onto the stellar spectrum. In all but the shortest exposures with IUE, this 'geocoronal emission' overwhelms the stellar flux and makes it impossible to directly measure the strength of the stellar chromospheric feature. The IUESIPS processing contains no provision for correcting standard G.O. output products for this contamination. The first task was to develop a scheme for removing the geocoronal flux, specifically from low-dispersion spectra taken with the Short-Wavelength Camera of IUE. The strategy adopted was to fit a 'sky model' to the spatially-resolved geocoronal emission observed through the large science aperture of the telescope, using the spectral orders on either side of the central ones where the stellar emission is concentrated. The model emission was then subtracted from the observed image, leaving behind the corrected stellar Lyman alpha emission. The details of this fitting procedure are described. Having devised a successful method for removing the unwanted geocoronal emission, the correction procedure was applied to 366 archival images which, from inspection of the photowrites in the IUE browse file, seemed especially promising. In this survey, Lyman alpha emission were eventually detected in the spectra of 227 stars representing a wide range in age, temperature, and luminosity throughout the cool half of the H-R diagram. Previously fewer than 30 such stars had been measured, and an order of magnitude increase in the numbers of stars having Lyman alpha flux measurements is provided. Multiple measurements were made for 52 stars and upper limits on chromospheric flux were derived for another 48 stars.

Periplasmic expression of human interferon-alpha 2c in Escherichia coli results in a correctly folded molecule.

PubMed Central

Voss, T; Falkner, E; Ahorn, H; Krystek, E; Maurer-Fogy, I; Bodo, G; Hauptmann, R

1994-01-01

Human interferon-alpha 2c (IFN-alpha 2c) was produced in Escherichia coli under the control of the alkaline phosphatase promoter using a periplasmic expression system. Compared with other leader sequences, the heat-stable enterotoxin II leader of E. coli (STII) resulted in the highest rate of correct processing as judged by Western-blot analysis. The fermentation was designed as a batch-fed process in order to obtain a high yield of biomass. The processing rate of IFN-alpha 2c could be increased from 25% to more than 50% by shifting the fermentation pH from 7.0 to 6.7. IFN-alpha 2c extracted from the periplasm was purified by a new four-step chromatographic procedure. Whereas cytoplasmically produced IFN-alpha 2c does not have its full native structure, IFN-alpha 2c extracted from the periplasm was found to be correctly folded, as shown by c.d. spectroscopy. Peptide-map analysis in combination with m.s. revealed the correct formation of disulphide bridges. N-terminal sequence analysis showed complete removal of the leader sequence, creating the authentic N-terminus starting with cysteine. Images Figure 3 Figure 4 Figure 6 PMID:8141788

Exploring the measurement properties of the osteopathy clinical teaching questionnaire using Rasch analysis.

PubMed

Vaughan, Brett

2018-01-01

Clinical teaching evaluations are common in health profession education programs to ensure students are receiving a quality clinical education experience. Questionnaires students use to evaluate their clinical teachers have been developed in professions such as medicine and nursing. The development of a questionnaire that is specifically for the osteopathy on-campus, student-led clinic environment is warranted. Previous work developed the 30-item Osteopathy Clinical Teaching Questionnaire. The current study utilised Rasch analysis to investigate the construct validity of the Osteopathy Clinical Teaching Questionnaire and provide evidence for the validity argument through fit to the Rasch model. Senior osteopathy students at four institutions in Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom rated their clinical teachers using the Osteopathy Clinical Teaching Questionnaire. Three hundred and ninety-nine valid responses were received and the data were evaluated for fit to the Rasch model. Reliability estimations (Cronbach's alpha and McDonald's omega) were also evaluated for the final model. The initial analysis demonstrated the data did not fit the Rasch model. Accordingly, modifications to the questionnaire were made including removing items, removing person responses, and rescoring one item. The final model contained 12 items and fit to the Rasch model was adequate. Support for unidimensionality was demonstrated through both the Principal Components Analysis/t-test, and the Cronbach's alpha and McDonald's omega reliability estimates. Analysis of the questionnaire using McDonald's omega hierarchical supported a general factor (quality of clinical teaching in osteopathy). The evidence for unidimensionality and the presence of a general factor support the calculation of a total score for the questionnaire as a sufficient statistic. Further work is now required to investigate the reliability of the 12-item Osteopathy Clinical Teaching Questionnaire to provide evidence for the validity argument.

Regeneration of the perineurium after microsurgical resection examined with immunolabeling for tenascin-C and alpha smooth muscle actin

PubMed Central

Yamamoto, Michiro; Okui, Nobuyuki; Tatebe, Masahiro; Shinohara, Takaaki; Hirata, Hitoshi

2011-01-01

The regenerative process of the perineurium and nerve function were examined using an in vivo model of perineurium resection in the rat sciatic nerve. Our hypothesis is that the regenerative process of the perineurium can be demonstrated by immunolabeling for tenascin-C and alpha smooth muscle actin after microsurgical resection of the perineurium in vivo. A total of 38 Lewis rats were used. Eight-week-old animals were assigned to one of two groups: the epi-perineurium removal group or the sham group. Under operative microscopy, the sciatic nerve was dissected from surrounding tissues at the thigh level from the ischial tuberosity to the fossa poplitea. The epi-perineurium was carefully removed by cutting circumferentially and stripping distally for 15 mm. For CatWalk® dynamic gait analysis, only right sciatic nerves underwent surgery; the left sciatic nerves were left intact. For pathological and electrophysiological tests, both the right and left sciatic nerves underwent surgery. Analysis of data was performed at each time interval with a two-group t-test. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. After resection of a 15-mm section of the epi-perineurium, immediate endoneurial swelling occurred in the outer portion and spread into the central portion. Although demyelination and axonal degeneration were found in the swollen area, remyelination and recovery of electrophysiological function were seen after regeneration of the perineurium. An immunohistological and electron microscopic study revealed that the perineurium regenerated via fusion of the residual interfascicular perineurium and endoneurial fibroblast-like cells of mesenchymal origin. CatWalk gait analysis showed not only motor paresis but also neuropathic pain during the early phases of this model. PMID:21265831

Radon detection

DOEpatents

MacArthur, D.W.; Allander, K.S.; Bounds, J.A.

1994-01-25

A detector for atmospheric radon using a long range alpha detector as its sensing element is described. An electrostatic filter removes ions from ambient air, while allowing radon atoms to pass into a decay cavity. Here, radon atoms are allowed to decay, creating air ions. These air ions are drawn by a fan through a second electrostatic filter which can be activated or deactivated, and into the long range alpha detector. With the second electrostatic filter activated, no air ions are allowed to pass, and the signal output from the long range alpha detector consists of only the electronic background. With the second electrostatic filter deactivated, air ions and cosmic rays will be detected. The cosmic ray contribution can be minimized by shielding. 3 figures.

Radon detection

DOEpatents

MacArthur, Duncan W.; Allander, Krag S.; Bounds, John A.

1994-01-01

A detector for atmospheric radon using a long range alpha detector as its sensing element. An electrostatic filter removes ions from ambient air, while allowing radon atoms to pass into a decay cavity. Here, radon atoms are allowed to decay, creating air ions. These air ions are drawn by a fan through a second electrostatic filter which can be activated or deactivated, and into the long range alpha detector. With the second electrostatic filter activated, no air ions are allowed to pass, and the signal output from the long range alpha detector consists of only the electronic background. With the second electrostatic filter deactivated, air ions and cosmic rays will be detected. The cosmic ray contribution can be minimized by shielding.

Unusual features of a recombinant apple alpha-farnesene synthase.

PubMed

Green, Sol; Friel, Ellen N; Matich, Adam; Beuning, Lesley L; Cooney, Janine M; Rowan, Daryl D; MacRae, Elspeth

2007-01-01

A recombinant alpha-farnesene synthase from apple (Malus x domestica), expressed in Escherichia coli, showed features not previously reported. Activity was enhanced 5-fold by K(+) and all four isomers of alpha-farnesene, as well as beta-farnesene, were produced from an isomeric mixture of farnesyl diphosphate (FDP). Monoterpenes, linalool, (Z)- and (E)-beta-ocimene and beta-myrcene, were synthesised from geranyl diphosphate (GDP), but at 18% of the optimised rate for alpha-farnesene synthesis from FDP. Addition of K(+) reduced monoterpene synthase activity. The enzyme also produced alpha-farnesene by a reaction involving coupling of GDP and isoprenyl diphosphate but at <1% of the rate with FDP. Mutagenesis of active site aspartate residues removed sesquiterpene, monoterpene and prenyltransferase activities suggesting catalysis through the same active site. Phylogenetic analysis clusters this enzyme with isoprene synthases rather than with other sesquiterpene synthases, suggesting that it has evolved differently from other plant sesquiterpene synthases. This is the first demonstration of a sesquiterpene synthase possessing prenyltransferase activity.

H NMR studies of substrate hydrogen exchange reactions catalyzed by L-methionine gamma-lyase

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

Esaki, N.; Nakayama, T.; Sawada, S.

Hydrogen exchange reactions of various L-amino acids catalyzed by L-methionine gamma-lyase (EC 4.4.1.11) have been studied. The enzyme catalyzes the rapid exchange of the alpha- and beta-hydrogens of L-methionine and S-methyl-L-cysteine with deuterium from the solvent. The rate of alpha-hydrogen exchange was about 40 times faster than that of the enzymatic elimination reaction of the sulfur-containing amino acids. The enzyme also catalyzes the exchange reaction of alpha- and beta-hydrogens of the straight-chain L-amino acids which are not susceptible to elimination. The exchange rates of the alpha-hydrogen and the total beta-hydrogens of L-alanine and L-alpha-aminobutyrate with deuterium followed first-order kinetics. Formore » L-norvaline, L-norleucine, S-methyl-L-cysteine, and L-methionine, the rate of alpha-hydrogen exchange followed first-order kinetics, but the rate of total beta-hydrogen exchange decreased due to a primary isotope effect at the alpha-position. L-Phenylalanine and L-tryptophan slowly underwent alpha-hydrogen exchange. The pro-R hydrogen of glycine was deuterated stereospecifically.« less

The role of the carbohydrate chains in complement (C3) fixation by solid-phase-bound human IgA.

PubMed Central

Nikolova, E B; Tomana, M; Russell, M W

1994-01-01

In contrast to antigen-antibody complexes containing native human IgA, solid-phase-deposited IgA activates the alternative complement pathway and binds C3b. To investigate the role of carbohydrate chains in this, various human IgA preparations were treated with neuraminidase alone or together with N-glycanase or O-glycanase, or with mixed glycosidases from the oral bacterium, Streptococcus mitis. Depletion of oligosaccharides was determined by carbohydrate analysis. Removal of sialic acid and N-linked glycan chains greatly increased the C3b-fixing properties of normal serum IgA1 and IgA2. Myeloma IgA1 and IgA2 proteins and secretory IgA had higher C3b-binding activity than normal serum IgA, and this was further increased by removal of sialic acid and N-linked glycans. Fc alpha and Fc alpha-SC fragments of myeloma and secretory IgA1, respectively, but not Fab alpha fragments, obtained by cleavage with bacterial IgA1 proteases and also free secretory component, fixed C3b by the alternative pathway. Images Figure 4 PMID:7927504

Activation of bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) [alpha]-amylase inhibitor requires proteolytic processing of the proprotein

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

Pueyo, J.J.; Hunt, D.C.; Chrispeels, M.J.

Seeds of the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) contain a plant defense protein that inhibits the [alpha]-amylases of mammals and insects. This [alpha]-amylase inhibitor ([alpha]Al) is synthesized as a proprotein on the endoplasmic reticulum and is proteolytically processed after arrival in the protein storage vacuoles to polypeptides of relative molecular weight (M[sub r]) 15,000 to 18,000. The authors report two types of evidence that proteolytic processing is linked to activation of the inhibitory activity. First, by surveying seed extracts of wild accessions of P. vulgaris and other species in the genus Phaseolus, they found that antibodies to [alpha]Al recognize large (M[submore » r] 30,000-35,000) polypeptides as well as typical [alpha]Al processing products (M[sub r] 15,000-18,000). [alpha]Al activity was found in all extracts that had the typical [alpha]Al processed polypeptides, but was absent from seed extracts that lacked such polypeptides. Second, they made a mutant [alpha]Al in which asparagine-77 is changed to aspartic acid-77. This mutation slows down the proteolytic processing of pro-[alpha]Al when the gene is expressed in tobacco. When pro-[alpha]Al was separated from mature [alpha]Al by gel filtration, pro-[alpha]Al was found not to have [alpha]-amylase inhibitory activity. The authors interpret these results to mean that formation of the active inhibitor is causally related to proteolytic processing of the proprotein. They suggest that the polypeptide cleavage removes a conformation constraint on the precursor to produce the biochemically active molecule. 43 refs., 5 figs., 1 tab.« less

Further Development and Validation of the Affordances in the Home Environment for Motor Development-Infant Scale (AHEMD-IS).

PubMed

Caçola, Priscila M; Gabbard, Carl; Montebelo, Maria I L; Santos, Denise C C

2015-06-01

Affordances in the home environment may play a significant role in infant motor development. The purpose of this study was to further develop and validate the Affordances in the Home Environment for Motor Development-Infant Scale (AHEMD-IS), an inventory that measures the quantity and quality of motor affordances in the home. A cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate criteria for content validity, reliability, internal consistency, floor and ceiling effects, and interpretability of the instrument. A pilot version of the inventory with 5 dimensions was used for expert panel analysis and administered to parents of infants (N=419). Data were analyzed with Cronbach alpha, intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), ceiling and floor effects, and item and dimension interpretability analyses for creation of a scoring system with descriptive categories for each dimension and total score. Average agreement among the expert panel was 95% across all evaluation criteria. Cronbach alpha values with the 41-item scale ranged between .639 and .824 for the separate dimensions, with a total value of .824 (95% confidence interval [95% CI]=.781, .862). The ICC values were .990 for interrater reliability and .949 for intrarater reliability. There was a ceiling effect on 3 questions for the Inside Space dimension and on 3 questions for the Variety of Stimulation dimension. These results demonstrated the need for reduction in total items (from 41 to 35) and the combination of space dimensions. After removal of questions, internal consistency was .766 (95% CI=.729, .800) for total score. Overall assessment categories were created as: less than adequate, moderately adequate, adequate, and excellent. The inventory does not determine specific use (time, frequency) of affordances in the home, and it does not account for infants' out-of-home activities. The AHEMD-IS is a reliable and valid instrument to assess affordances in the home environment that promote infant motor development. © 2015 American Physical Therapy Association.

Alpha-Lipoic Acid Reduces LDL-Particle Number and PCSK9 Concentrations in High-Fat Fed Obese Zucker Rats

PubMed Central

Carrier, Bradley; Wen, Shin; Zigouras, Sophia; Browne, Richard W.; Li, Zhuyun; Patel, Mulchand S.; Williamson, David L.; Rideout, Todd C.

2014-01-01

We characterized the hypolipidemic effects of alpha-lipoic acid (LA, R-form) and examined the associated molecular mechanisms in a high fat fed Zucker rat model. Rats (n = 8) were assigned to a high fat (HF) diet or the HF diet with 0.25% LA (HF-LA) for 30 days and pair fed to remove confounding effects associated with the anorectic properties of LA. Compared with the HF controls, the HF-LA group was protected against diet-induced obesity (102.5±3.1 vs. 121.5±3.6,% change BW) and hypercholesterolemia with a reduction in total-C (−21%), non-HDL-C (−25%), LDL-C (−16%), and total LDL particle number (−46%) and an increase in total HDL particles (∼22%). This cholesterol-lowering response was associated with a reduction in plasma PCSK9 concentration (−70%) and an increase in hepatic LDLr receptor protein abundance (2 fold of HF). Compared with the HF-fed animals, livers of LA-supplemented animals were protected against TG accumulation (−46%), likely through multiple mechanisms including: a suppressed lipogenic response (down-regulation of hepatic acetyl-CoA carboxylase and fatty acid synthase expression); enhanced hepatic fat oxidation (increased carnitine palmitoyltransferase Iα expression); and enhanced VLDL export (increased hepatic diacylglycerol acyltransferase and microsomal triglyceride transfer protein expression and elevated plasma VLDL particle number). Study results also support an enhanced fatty acid uptake (2.8 fold increase in total lipase activity) and oxidation (increased CPT1β protein abundance) in muscle tissue in LA-supplemented animals compared with the HF group. In summary, in the absence of a change in caloric intake, LA was effective in protecting against hypercholesterolemia and hepatic fat accumulation under conditions of strong genetic and dietary predisposition toward obesity and dyslipidemia. PMID:24595397

Esterase isoenzymes and insecticide resistance in Frankliniella occidentalis populations from the south-east region of Spain.

PubMed

López-Soler, Neus; Cervera, Amelia; Moores, Graham D; Martínez-Pardo, Rafael; Garcerá, M Dolores

2008-12-01

Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande) is among the most important crop pests in the south-east region of Spain; its increasing resistance to insecticides constitutes a serious problem, and understanding the mechanisms involved is therefore of great interest. To this end, F. occidentalis populations, collected from the field at different locations in south-east Spain, were studied in terms of total esterase activity and esterase isoenzyme pattern. Individual thrips extracts were analysed by native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) and stained for esterase activity with the model substrate alpha-naphthyl acetate. Significant correlations were found between resistance to the insecticides acrinathrin and methiocarb and the presence of a group of three intensely stained bands, named Triplet A. For each individual thrips extract, total esterase activity towards the substrates alpha-naphthyl acetate and alpha-naphthyl butyrate was also measured in a microplate reader. Insects possessing Triplet A showed a significantly higher alpha-naphthyl acetate specific activity and alpha-naphthyl acetate/alpha-naphthyl butyrate activity ratio. This observation allowed a reliable classification of susceptible or resistant insects either by PAGE analysis or by total esterase activity determination. The PAGE and microplate assays described can be used as a monitoring technique for detecting acrinathrin- and methiocarb-resistant individuals among F. occidentalis field populations.

Innate immune reactivity of the liver in rats fed a choline-deficient L-amino-acid-defined diet.

PubMed

Kawaratani, Hideto; Tsujimoto, Tatsuhiro; Kitazawa, Toshiyuki; Kitade, Mitsuteru; Yoshiji, Hitoshi; Uemura, Masahito; Fukui, Hiroshi

2008-11-21

To investigate the innate immune reactivity of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), and CD14 in the liver of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) model rats. Male F344 rats were fed a choline-deficient L-amino-acid-defined (CDAA) diet. The rats were killed after 4 or 8 wk of the diet, and their livers were removed for immunohistochemical investigation and RNA extraction. The liver specimens were immunostained for TNF-alpha, TLR4, and CD14. The gene expressions of TNF-alpha, TLR4, and CD14 were determined by reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Kupffer cells were isolated from the liver by Percoll gradient centrifugation, and were then cultured to measure TNF-alpha production. The serum and liver levels of TNF-alpha in the CDAA-fed rats increased significantly as compared with the control group, as did the immunohistochemical values and gene expressions of TNF-alpha, TLR4, and CD14 with the progression of steatohepatitis. TNF-alpha production from the isolated Kupffer cells of the CDAA-fed rats was elevated by lipopolysaccharide stimulation. The expressions of TNF-alpha, TLR4, and CD14 increased in the NASH model, suggesting that TLR4 and CD14-mediated endotoxin liver damage may also occur in NASH.

Variations in solar Lyman alpha irradiance on short time scales

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pap, J. M.

1992-10-01

Variations in solar UV irradiance at Lyman alpha are studied on short time scales (from days to months) after removing the long-term changes over the solar cycle. The SME/Lyman alpha irradiance is estimated from various solar indices using linear regression analysis. In order to study the nonlinear effects, Lyman alpha irradiance is modeled with a 5th-degree polynomial as well. It is shown that the full-disk equivalent width of the He line at 1083 nm, which is used as a proxy for the plages and active network, can best reproduce the changes observed in Lyman alpha. Approximately 72 percent of the solar-activity-related changes in Lyman alpha irradiance arise from plages and the network. The network contribution is estimated by the correlation analysis to be about 19 percent. It is shown that significant variability remains in Lyman alpha irradiance, with periods around 300, 27, and 13.5d, which is not explained by the solar activity indices. It is shown that the nonlinear effects cannot account for a significant part of the unexplained variation in Lyman alpha irradiance. Therefore, additional events (e.g., large-scale motions and/or a systematic difference in the area and intensity of the plages and network observed in the lines of Ca-K, He 1083, and Lyman alpha) may explain the discrepancies found between the observed and estimated irradiance values.

Variations in solar Lyman alpha irradiance on short time scales

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pap, J. M.

1992-01-01

Variations in solar UV irradiance at Lyman alpha are studied on short time scales (from days to months) after removing the long-term changes over the solar cycle. The SME/Lyman alpha irradiance is estimated from various solar indices using linear regression analysis. In order to study the nonlinear effects, Lyman alpha irradiance is modeled with a 5th-degree polynomial as well. It is shown that the full-disk equivalent width of the He line at 1083 nm, which is used as a proxy for the plages and active network, can best reproduce the changes observed in Lyman alpha. Approximately 72 percent of the solar-activity-related changes in Lyman alpha irradiance arise from plages and the network. The network contribution is estimated by the correlation analysis to be about 19 percent. It is shown that significant variability remains in Lyman alpha irradiance, with periods around 300, 27, and 13.5d, which is not explained by the solar activity indices. It is shown that the nonlinear effects cannot account for a significant part of the unexplained variation in Lyman alpha irradiance. Therefore, additional events (e.g., large-scale motions and/or a systematic difference in the area and intensity of the plages and network observed in the lines of Ca-K, He 1083, and Lyman alpha) may explain the discrepancies found between the observed and estimated irradiance values.

HEAD INJURY ASSESSMENT IN JUVENILE CHINOOK USING THE ALPHA II-SPECTRIN BIOMARKER: EFFECTS OF PRESSURE CHANGES AND PASSAGE THROUGH A REMOVABLE SPILLWAY WEIR

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

Jonason, C.; Miracle, A.

2009-01-01

The cytoskeletal protein alpha II-spectrin has specifi c neurodegenerative mechanisms that allow the necrotic (injury-induced) and apoptotic (non-injury-induced) pathways of proteolysis to be differentiated in an immunoblot. Consequently, αII-spectrin breakdown products (SBDPs) are potential biomarkers for diagnosing traumatic brain injury (TBI). The purpose of the following investigation, consisting of two studies, was to evaluate the utility of the spectrin biomarker in diagnosing TBI in fi sh that travel through hydroelectric dams in the Columbia and Snake Rivers. The fi rst study used hyperbaric pressure chambers to simulate the pressure changes that affect fi sh during passage through a Federal Columbiamore » River Power System (FCRPS) Kaplan turbine. The second study tested the effect of a removable spillway weir (RSW) on the passage of juvenile chinook (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha). This study was conducted in tandem with a balloon-tag study by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Brain samples from fi sh were collected and analyzed using an immunoblot for SBDPs, and imaging software was used to quantify the protein band density and determine the ratio of cleaved protein to total protein. The biomarker analyses found higher SBDP expression levels in fi sh that were exposed to lower pressure nadirs and fi sh that passed through the RSW at a deep orientation. In general, the incidence of injuries observed after treatment positively correlated with expression levels, suggesting that the biomarker method of analysis is comparable to traditional methods of injury assessment. It was also found that, for some treatments, the 110 kDa spectrin fragment (SBDP 110) correlated more strongly with necrotic head injury incidence and mortality rates than did the total cleaved protein or the 120 kDa fragment. These studies will be informative in future decisions regarding the design of turbines and fi sh passage structures in hydroelectric dams and will hopefully contribute to the development of faster and more accurate techniques for diagnosing TBI in fi sh.« less

Calculation of effective atomic number and electron density of essential biomolecules for electron, proton, alpha particle and multi-energetic photon interactions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kurudirek, Murat; Onaran, Tayfur

2015-07-01

Effective atomic numbers (Zeff) and electron densities (Ne) of some essential biomolecules have been calculated for total electron interaction, total proton interaction and total alpha particle interaction using an interpolation method in the energy region 10 keV-1 GeV. Also, the spectrum weighted Zeff for multi-energetic photons has been calculated using Auto-Zeff program. Biomolecules consist of fatty acids, amino acids, carbohydrates and basic nucleotides of DNA and RNA. Variations of Zeff and Ne with kinetic energy of ionizing charged particles and effective photon energies of heterogeneous sources have been studied for the given materials. Significant variations in Zeff and Ne have been observed through the entire energy region for electron, proton and alpha particle interactions. Non-uniform variation has been observed for protons and alpha particles in low and intermediate energy regions, respectively. The maximum values of Zeff have found to be in higher energies for total electron interaction whereas maximum values have found to be in relatively low energies for total proton and total alpha particle interactions. When it comes to the multi-energetic photon sources, it has to be noted that the highest Zeff values were found at low energy region where photoelectric absorption is the pre-dominant interaction process. The lowest values of Zeff have been shown in biomolecules such as stearic acid, leucine, mannitol and thymine, which have highest H content in their groups. Variation in Ne seems to be more or less the same with the variation in Zeff for the given materials as expected.

The effect of interferon on the receptor sites to rabies virus on mouse neuroblastoma cells

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

Briggs, D.J.

1989-01-01

The binding of rabies virus to mouse neuroblastoma cells (MNA) primed with alpha interferon (IFN-{alpha}), beta interferon (IFN-{beta}), or alpha bungarotoxin (BTX) was examined. A saturable number of receptor sites to rabies virus was calculated by increasing the amount of {sup 3}H-CVS added to a constant number of untreated MNA cells. MNA cells were then exposed to 20 I.U. of IFN-{alpha}, IFN-{beta}, or 1 {mu}g of BTX and assayed to determine if these treatments had an effect on the number of receptor sites to rabies virus. Total amount of {sup 3}H-CVS bound to MNA cells was determined during a threemore » hour incubation period. Cold competition assays using 1,000 fold excess unlabeled CVS were used to determine non-specific binding for each treatment. Specific binding was then calculated by subtracting non-specific binding from the total amount of CVS bound to MNA cells. A similar amount of total viral protein bound to untreated and IFN-{beta}, and BTX treated cells after 180 minutes of incubation. The bound protein varied by only 0.07 {mu}g. However, the amount of specific and non-specific binding varied a great deal between treatments. BTX caused an increase in non-specific and a decrease in specific binding of rabies virus. IFN-{beta} produced variable results in non-specific and specific binding while IFN-{alpha} caused mainly specific binding to occur. The most significant change brought about by IFN-{alpha} was an increase in the rate of viral attachment. At 30 minutes post-infection, IFN-{alpha} treated cells had bound 90% of the total amount of virus bound to untreated cells after 180 minutes. The increased binding rate did not cause a productive infection of rabies virus. No viral production was evident after an incubation period of 48 hours in either IFN-{alpha} or IFN-{beta} treated cells.« less

Total alpha-globin gene cluster deletion has high frequency in Filipinos

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

Hunt, J.A.; Haruyama, A.Z.; Chu, B.M.

1994-09-01

Most {alpha}-thalassemias [Thal] are due to large deletions. In Southeast Asians, the (--{sup SEA}) double {alpha}-globin gene deletion is common, 3 (--{sup Tot}) total {alpha}-globin cluster deletions are known: Filipino (--{sup Fil}), Thai (--{sup Thai}), and Chinese (--{sup Chin}). In a Hawaii Thal project, provisional diagnosis of {alpha}-Thal-1 heterozygotes was based on microcytosis, normal isoelectric focusing, and no iron deficiency. One in 10 unselected Filipinos was an {alpha}-Thal-1 heterozygote, 2/3 of these had a (--{sup Tot}) deletion: a {var_sigma}-cDNA probe consistently showed fainter intensity of the constant 5.5 kb {var_sigma}{sub 2} BamHI band, with no heterzygosity for {var_sigma}-globin region polymorphisms;more » {alpha}-cDNA or {var_sigma}-cDNA probes showed no BamHI or BglII bands diagnostic of the (--{sup SEA}) deletion; bands for the (-{alpha}) {alpha}-Thal-2 single {alpha}-globin deletions were only seen in Hb H cases. A reliable monoclonal anti-{var_sigma}-peptide antibody test for the (--{sup SEA}) deletion was always negative in (--{sup Tot}) samples. Southern digests with the Lo probe, a gift from D. Higgs of Oxford Univ., confirmed that 49 of 50 (--{sup Tot}) chromosomes in Filipinos were (--{sup Fil}). Of 20 {alpha}-Thal-1 hydrops born to Filipinos, 11 were (--{sup Fil}/--{sup SEA}) compound heterozygotes; 9 were (--{sup SEA}/--{sup SEA}) homozygotes, but none was a (--{sup Fil}/--{sup Fil}).« less

Fate of oestrogens during anaerobic blackwater treatment with micro-aerobic post-treatment.

PubMed

de Mes, T Z D; Kujawa-Roeleveld, K; Zeeman, G; Lettinga, G

2007-01-01

The fate of oestrone (E1), 17beta-oestradiol (E2) and 17alpha-ethynyloestradiol (EE2) was investigated in a concentrated blackwater treatment system consisting of an UASB septic tank, with micro-aerobic post-treatment. In UASB septic tank effluent a (natural) total concentration of 4.02 microg/L E1 and 18.69 microg/L E2, comprising the sum of conjugated (>70% for E1 and >80% for E2) and unconjugated forms, was measured. During post-treatment the unconjugated oestrogens were removed to below 1 microg/L. A percentage of 77% of the measured unconjugated E1 and 82% of E2 was associated with particles >1.2 microm in the final effluent implying high sorption affinity of both compounds. When spiking the UASB septic tank effluent with E1, E2, EE2 and the sulphate conjugate of E2, removal in the micro-aerobic post-treatment was >99% for both E2 and EE2 and 83% for E1. The lower removal value for E1 was a result of (slow) deconjugation during the treatment, and in the final effluent still 40% of E1 and 99% of E2 was present in conjugated form. The latter was the result of incomplete deconjugation of the spiked E2(3S) in the post-treatment system.

Comparison of cell wall proteins of Saccharomyces cerevisiae as anchors for cell surface expression of heterologous proteins.

PubMed Central

Van der Vaart, J M; te Biesebeke, R; Chapman, J W; Toschka, H Y; Klis, F M; Verrips, C T

1997-01-01

The carboxyl-terminal regions of five cell wall proteins (Cwp1p, Cwp2p, Ag alpha 1p, Tip1p, and Flo1p) and three potential cell wall proteins (Sed1p, YCR89w, and Tir1p) all proved capable of immobilizing alpha-galactosidase in the cell wall of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The fraction of the total amount of fusion protein that was localized to the cell wall varied depending on the anchor domain used. The highest proportion of cell wall incorporation was achieved with Cwp2p, Ag alpha 1p, or Sed1p as an anchor. Although 80% of these fusion proteins were incorporated in the cell wall, the total production of alpha-galactosidase-Ag alpha 1p was sixfold lower than that of alpha-galactosidase-Cwp2p and eightfold lower than that of alpha-galactosidase-Sed1p. Differences in mRNA levels were not responsible for this discrepancy, nor was an intracellular accumulation of alpha-galactosidase-Ag alpha 1p detectable. A lower translation efficiency of the alpha-galactosidase-AG alpha 1 fusion construct is most likely to be responsible for the low level of protein production. alpha-Galactosidase immobilized by the carboxyl-terminal 67 amino acids of Cwp2p was most effective in the hydrolysis of the high-molecular-weight substrate guar gum from Cyamopsis tetragonoloba. This indicates that the use of a large anchoring domain does not necessarily result in a better exposure of the immobilized enzyme to the exterior of the yeast cell. PMID:9023939

EGF receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors diminish transforming growth factor-alpha-induced pulmonary fibrosis.

PubMed

Hardie, William D; Davidson, Cynthia; Ikegami, Machiko; Leikauf, George D; Le Cras, Timothy D; Prestridge, Adrienne; Whitsett, Jeffrey A; Korfhagen, Thomas R

2008-06-01

Transforming growth factor-alpha (TGF-alpha) is a ligand for the EGF receptor (EGFR). EGFR activation is associated with fibroproliferative processes in human lung disease and animal models of pulmonary fibrosis. We determined the effects of EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors gefitinib (Iressa) and erlotinib (Tarceva) on the development and progression of TGF-alpha-induced pulmonary fibrosis. Using a doxycycline-regulatable transgenic mouse model of lung-specific TGF-alpha expression, we determined effects of treatment with gefitinib and erlotinib on changes in lung histology, total lung collagen, pulmonary mechanics, pulmonary hypertension, and expression of genes associated with synthesis of ECM and vascular remodeling. Induction in the lung of TGF-alpha caused progressive pulmonary fibrosis over an 8-wk period. Daily administration of gefitinib or erlotinib prevented development of fibrosis, reduced accumulation of total lung collagen, prevented weight loss, and prevented changes in pulmonary mechanics. Treatment of mice with gefitinib 4 wk after the induction of TGF-alpha prevented further increases in and partially reversed total collagen levels and changes in pulmonary mechanics and pulmonary hypertension. Increases in expression of genes associated with synthesis of ECM as well as decreases of genes associated with vascular remodeling were also prevented or partially reversed. Administration of gefitinib or erlotinib did not cause interstitial fibrosis or increases in lavage cell counts. Administration of small molecule EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors prevented further increases in and partially reversed pulmonary fibrosis induced directly by EGFR activation without inducing inflammatory cell influx or additional lung injury.

Influence of climate on the tocopherol content of shea butter.

PubMed

Maranz, Steven; Wiesman, Zeev

2004-05-19

The shea tree, Vitellaria paradoxa Gaertner, is the source of a commercial seed fat known as shea butter. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis of the tocopherol content of shea butters from different regions of Africa showed high variability between provenances and a significant effect of climate on alpha-tocopherol levels. The total tocopherol content (alpha, beta, gamma, and delta) in 102 shea butter samples from 11 countries ranged from 29 to 805 microg/g of shea butter, with a mean of 220 microg/g. alpha-Tocopherol, the principal form detected, averaged 64% of the total tocopherol content. Shea butters from Vitellaria populations situated in hot, dry climates had the highest levels of alpha-tocopherol (for example, a mean of 414 microg/g in samples from N'Djamena, Chad). The lowest concentrations of alpha-tocopherol were found in samples from cool highland areas, especially in northern Uganda (a mean of 29 microg/g).

Cigarette smoke radioactivity and lung cancer risk.

PubMed

Karagueuzian, Hrayr S; White, Celia; Sayre, James; Norman, Amos

2012-01-01

To determine the tobacco industry's policy and action with respect to radioactive polonium 210 ((210)Po) in cigarette smoke and to assess the long-term risk of lung cancer caused by alpha particle deposits in the lungs of regular smokers. Analysis of major tobacco industries' internal secret documents on cigarette radioactivity made available online by the Master Settlement Agreement in 1998. The documents show that the industry was well aware of the presence of a radioactive substance in tobacco as early as 1959. Furthermore, the industry was not only cognizant of the potential "cancerous growth" in the lungs of regular smokers but also did quantitative radiobiological calculations to estimate the long-term (25 years) lung radiation absorption dose (rad) of ionizing alpha particles emitted from the cigarette smoke. Our own calculations of lung rad of alpha particles match closely the rad estimated by the industry. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the industry's and our estimate of long-term lung rad of alpha particles causes 120-138 lung cancer deaths per year per 1,000 regular smokers. Acid wash was discovered in 1980 to be highly effectively in removing (210)Po from the tobacco leaves; however, the industry avoided its use for concerns that acid media would ionize nicotine converting it into a poorly absorbable form into the brain of smokers thus depriving them of the much sought after instant "nicotine kick" sensation. The evidence of lung cancer risk caused by cigarette smoke radioactivity is compelling enough to warrant its removal.

Total alpha-fetoprotein and Lens culinaris agglutinin-reactive alpha-fetoprotein in fetal chromosomal abnormalities.

PubMed

Yamamoto, R; Azuma, M; Kishida, T; Yamada, H; Satomura, S; Fujimoto, S

2001-11-01

To examine the differences in multiples of the median (MoM) of total alpha-fetoprotein, and the proportion of Lens culinaris agglutinin reactive alpha-fetoprotein (% alpha-fetoprotein-L2 + L3) in the maternal serum and amniotic fluid of pregnant women whose fetuses were diagnosed with autosomal or sex chromosomal abnormalities. Prospective consecutive series. University hospital. Maternal sera and amniotic fluids from 46 pregnant women with trisomy 21 fetuses, 10 pregnant women with trisomy 18 fetuses, one pregnant woman with a trisomy 13 fetus, six pregnant women with fetal sex chromosomal abnormalities, and 100 pregnant women for whom the fetal karyotype was diagnosed as normal following a genetic amniocentesis. The proportion of alpha-fetoprotein-L2 + L3 in maternal serum for trisomy 21 (40.3%. P < 0.0001) and trisomy 18 (39.8%, P < 0.05) showed a significantly higher value compared with normal (32.6%). The proportion of alpha-fetoprotein-L2 + L3 in amniotic fluid was significantly higher (P < 0.0001) for trisomy 21 (46.6%) than for a normal karyotype (41.5%). Only for the trisomy 21 group was there a strong correlation in the % alpha-fetoprotein-L2 + L3 between maternal serum and amniotic fluid (r = 0.840, P < 0.0001). For all groups, there was no correlation between alpha-fetoprotein MoM and % alpha-fetoprotein-L2 + L3 in maternal serum and amniotic fluid. The proportion of alpha-fetoprotein-L2 + L3 in maternal serum is an appropriate choice for a trisomy 21 biochemical marker, and it is possible that combining alpha-fetoprotein-L2 + L3 analysis with assays of alpha-fetoprotein in maternal serum could further improve the sensitivity and specificity of multiple marker screening.

Gel filtration of sialoglycoproteins.

PubMed Central

Alhadeff, J A

1978-01-01

The role of sialic acid in the gel-filtration behaviour of sialoglycoproteins was investigated by using the separated isoenzymes of purified human liver alpha-L-fucosidase and several other well-known sialic acid-containing glycoproteins (fetuin, alpha1-acid glycoprotein, thyroglobulin and bovine submaxillary mucin). For each glycoprotein studied, gel filtration of its desialylated derivative gave an apparent molecular weights much less than that expected just from removal of sialic acid. For the lower-molecular-weight glycoproteins (fetuin and alpha1-acid glyocprotein), gel filtration of the sialylated molecules led to apparent molecular weights much larger than the known values. The data indicate that gel filtration cannot be used for accurately determining the molecular weights of at least some sialoglycoproteins. Images Fig. 1. PMID:356853

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

Weinstein, L.; Droegemueller, W.; Cornette, J.

A single intra-amniotic injection of (15S)-15 methyl prostaglandin F/sub 2/..cap alpha.. (THAM) was used to induce second trimester abortion in five patients. Serial levels of (15S)-15 methyl prostaglandin F/sub 2/..cap alpha.. were subsequently measured in amniotic fluid and plasma by radioimmunoassay. The slow removal of this drug from the amniotic fluid was documented. Plasma levels of (15S)-15 methyl prostaglandin F/sub 2/..cap alpha.. increased fourfold to sevenfold after clinical rupture of the membranes in three patients, supporting the fact that prostaglandins are well absorbed from the vagina. Because this analogue of prostaglandin can cause marked peripheral bronchoconstriction when administered systemically, itmore » is best to avoid its use in patients with a history of asthma.« less

RAPID DETERMINATION OF RA-226 IN ENVIRONMENTAL SAMPLES

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

Maxwell, S.

2012-01-03

A new rapid method for the determination of {sup 226}Ra in environmental samples has been developed at the Savannah River Site Environmental Lab (Aiken, SC, USA) that can be used for emergency response or routine sample analyses. The need for rapid analyses in the event of a Radiological Dispersive Device or Improvised Nuclear Device event is well-known. In addition, the recent accident at Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant in March, 2011 reinforces the need to have rapid analyses for radionuclides in environmental samples in the event of a nuclear accident. {sup 226}Ra (T1/2 = 1,620 years) is one of the mostmore » toxic of the long-lived alpha-emitters present in the environment due to its long life and its tendency to concentrate in bones, which increases the internal radiation dose of individuals. The new method to determine {sup 226}Ra in environmental samples utilizes a rapid sodium hydroxide fusion method for solid samples, calcium carbonate precipitation to preconcentrate Ra, and rapid column separation steps to remove interferences. The column separation process uses cation exchange resin to remove large amounts of calcium, Sr Resin to remove barium and Ln Resin as a final purification step to remove {sup 225}Ac and potential interferences. The purified {sup 226}Ra sample test sources are prepared using barium sulfate microprecipitation in the presence of isopropanol for counting by alpha spectrometry. The method showed good chemical recoveries and effective removal of interferences. The determination of {sup 226}Ra in environmental samples can be performed in less than 16 h for vegetation, concrete, brick, soil, and air filter samples with excellent quality for emergency or routine analyses. The sample preparation work takes less than 6 h. {sup 225}Ra (T1/2 = 14.9 day) tracer is used and the {sup 225}Ra progeny {sup 217}At is used to determine chemical yield via alpha spectrometry. The rapid fusion technique is a rugged sample digestion method that ensures that any refractory radium particles are effectively digested. The preconcentration and column separation steps can also be applied to aqueous samples with good results.« less

X-alpha calculation of transition energies in multiply ionized atoms

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ringers, D. A.; Chen, M. H.

1974-01-01

It is shown that the accuracy of calculations can be improved if appropriate (different) values of alpha are used for each configuration. Alternatively, the Slater Transition state can be used, wherein a total energy difference is related to a difference in single electron eigenvalues. By a series expansion, the value of alpha for an excited configuration can be related to its value for the ground state configuration. The terms Delta alpha (delta Epsilon/delta alpha) exhibit a similar dependence on atomic number as the ground state values of alpha. Results of sample calculations are reported and compared with experiment.

Alpha-lipoic acid reduces body weight and regulates triglycerides in obese patients with diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Okanović, Azra; Prnjavorac, Besim; Jusufović, Edin; Sejdinović, Rifat

2015-08-01

To determine an influence of alpha-lipoic acid to reduction of body weight and regulation of total cholesterol concentration, triglycerides and glucose serum levels in obese patients with diabetes mellitus type 2. A prospective study includes two groups of obese patients with diabetes mellitus and signs of peripheral polyneuropathia: examined group (30 patients; 15 females and 15 males), and control group (30 patients; 12 females and 18 males). All were treated with metformin (850-1700 mg/day). Examined patients were additionally treated with alpha-lipoic acid 600 mg/day during 20 weeks. Body mass index and concentrations of total cholesterol, triglycerides and glucose in serum were compared before and after the treatment. The group treated with 600 mg alpha-lipoic acid lost significantly more weight, and had lower triglyceride level than the control group. There were no significant differences in total cholesterol and glucose serum levels between the groups. Alpha-lipoic acid of 600 mg/day treatment have influenced weight and triglycerides loss in obese patients with diabetes mellitus type 2. It should be considered as an important additive therapy in obese patients with diabetes mellitus type 2. Copyright© by the Medical Assotiation of Zenica-Doboj Canton.

Inhibition by alpha- and beta-adrenoceptors of the twitch response to transmural stimulation in the guinea-pig vas deferens.

PubMed

Hedqvist, P; Von Euler, U S

1976-11-01

Noradrenaline as well as the indirectly acting amines tyramine and phenethylamine either enhance or inhibit the twitch response of the transmurally stimulated, isolated guine-pig vas deferens, thus partly confirming previous reports. In both cases enhancement is annulled by alpha-adrenoceptor blockers. The twitch inhibition caused by noradrenaline is abolished by alpha- + beta2-adrenoceptor blockers, but not by either blocker alone. The inhibition caused by the indirectly acting amines is largely abolished by alpha-adrenoceptor blockers. Clonidine strongly inhibits the twitch. This effect if promptly removed by phentolamine. After blockade of the neurally induced twitch by tetrodotoxin, noradrenaline and the indirectly acting amines have no effect or slightly enhance the twitch elicited by transmural stimulation of the smooth muscle. It is concluded that exogenous noradrenaline acts on postjunctional stimulatory alpha-adrenoceptors and on inhibitory alpha- and beta2-adrenoceptors, which are presumably prejunctional. In the unstimulated preparation contracted by acetylcholine, noradrenaline causes further contraction which is changed into relaxation after phentolamine. This relaxation is abolished by butoxamine, suggesting that noradrenaline may also act on inhibitory postjunctional beta2-adrenoceptors. The twitch-inhibiting effect of endogenous noradrenaline, released by nerve stimulation or by indirectly acting amines, appears to be primarily mediated by prejunctional alpha-adrenoceptors.

Boron modulates extracellular matrix and TNF alpha synthesis in human fibroblasts.

PubMed

Benderdour, M; Hess, K; Dzondo-Gadet, M; Nabet, P; Belleville, F; Dousset, B

1998-05-29

Boric acid was not mitogenic for human fibroblasts and it did not change cell viability until 0.5% (w/v). Boric acid treatment affected the metabolism of human dermal fibroblasts in culture, decreasing the synthesis of extracellular matrix macromolecules such as proteoglycans, collagen, and total proteins. It also increased the release of these molecules into the culture medium. The principal proteins secreted into the medium after boric acid treatment had molecular masses of 90, 70, 58, 49, and 43 kDa and faint bands were detected by electrophoresis between 14 and 30 kDa. hsp 70 and TNF alpha were detected among the secreted proteins by immunoblotting, and the amount of TNF alpha released was quantified by radioimmunoassay. Total mRNA levels were higher after boric acid treatment and peaked after 6 h of treatment. TNF alpha mRNA was undetectable in unstimulated fibroblasts and two TNF alpha mRNA bands were detected after stimulation: immature mRNA (4.8 kb) and mature TNF alpha mRNA (1.9 kb). Thus, the effects of boric acid observed in wound repair in vivo may be due to TNF alpha synthesis and secretion.

Negative interference by rheumatoid factor in alpha-fetoprotein chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay.

PubMed

Wang, Hui; Bi, Xiaohui; Xu, Lei; Li, Yirong

2017-01-01

Background Rheumatoid factor causes positive interference in multiple immunoassays. Recently, negative interference has also been found in immunoassays in the presence of rheumatoid factor. The chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay is widely used to determine serum alpha-fetoprotein. However, it is not clear whether the presence of rheumatoid factor in the serum causes interference in the chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay of alpha-fetoprotein. Methods Serum alpha-fetoprotein was determined using the ARCHITECT alpha-fetoprotein assay. The estimation of alpha-fetoprotein recovery was carried out in samples prepared by diluting high-concentration alpha-fetoprotein serum with rheumatoid factor-positive or rheumatoid factor-negative serum. Paramagnetic microparticles coated with hepatitis B surface antigen-anti-HBs complexes were used to remove rheumatoid factor from the serum. Results The average recovery of alpha-fetoprotein was 88.4% and 93.8% in the rheumatoid factor-positive and rheumatoid factor-negative serum samples, respectively. The recovery of alpha-fetoprotein was significantly lower in the rheumatoid factor-positive serum samples than in the rheumatoid factor-negative serum samples. In two of five rheumatoid factor-positive samples, a large difference was found (9.8%) between the average alpha-fetoprotein recoveries in the serially diluted and initial recoveries. Fourteen rheumatoid factor-positive serum samples were pretreated with hepatitis B surface antigen-anti-HBs complex-coated paramagnetic microparticles. The alpha-fetoprotein concentrations measured in the pretreated samples increased significantly. Conclusions It was concluded that the alpha-fetoprotein chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay is susceptible to interference by rheumatoid factor, leading to significantly lower results. Eliminating the incidence of negative interference from rheumatoid factor should be an important goal for immunoassay providers. In the meantime, laboratorians must remain alert to the negative interference by rheumatoid factor, and in some cases, pretreat rheumatoid factor-positive samples with blocking or absorbing reagents.

Polyamine levels as related to growth, differentiation and senescence in protoplast-derived cultures of Vigna aconitifolia and Avena sativa

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kaur Sawhney, R.; Shekhawat, N. S.; Galston, A. W.

1985-01-01

We have previously reported that aseptically cultured mesophyll protoplasts of Vigna divide rapidly and regenerate into complete plants, while mesophyll protoplasts of Avena divide only sporadically and senesce rapidly after isolation. We measured polyamine titers in such cultures of Vigna and Avena, to study possible correlations between polyamines and cellular behavior. We also deliberately altered polyamine titer by the use of selective inhibitors of polyamine biosynthesis, noting the effects on internal polyamine titer, cell division activity and regenerative events. In Vigna cultures, levels of free and bound putrescine and spermidine increased dramatically as cell division and differentiation progressed. The increase in bound polyamines was largest in embryoid-forming callus tissue while free polyamine titer was highest in root-forming callus. In Avena cultures, the levels of total polyamines decreased as the protoplast senesced. The presence of the inhibitors alpha-difluoromethyl-arginine (specific inhibitor of arginine decarboxylase), alpha-difluoromethylornithine (specific inhibitor of ornithine decarboxylase) and dicyclohexylamine (inhibitor of spermidine synthase) reduced cell division and organogenesis in Vigna cultures. Addition of low concentration of polyamines to such cultures containing inhibitors or removal of inhibitors from the culture medium restored the progress of growth and differentiation with concomitant increase in polyamine levels.

A new method for the measurement of protein turnover.

PubMed Central

Humphrey, T J; Davies, D D

1975-01-01

A new technique for the determination of rate constants of protein degradation is described. By using the method, half-lives of total soluble protein of Lemna minor during growth on full culture medium and distilled water were measured. The method involves incubating Lemna on a growth medium containing 3H2O. After a short exposure (20 min) to 3H-labelled culture medium, 3H was found in soluble amino acids, especially aspartate, glutamate, glutamine and alanine. After transfer to a 3H-free medium for 30 min, 80% of the 3H originally present in soluble amino acids was lost. These results suggest that 3H enters and leaves amino acids at the alpha-carbon atom, a conclusion supported by the observed labelling of glutamates. The exchange of H and 3H on the alpha-carbon atom is catalysed by transaminases and the speed of this exchange ensures that when the 3H2O is removed, the 3H in free amino acids is rapidly lost, thereby eliminating problems connected with metabolic pools and recycling. After an exposure of 20 min to 3H-labelled medium all protein amino acids, except for arginine, were found to be radioactive. The loss of radioactivity from protein amino acids was used to measure protein degradation. PMID:1156391

Procedure for the determination of retinol and alpha-tocopherol in poultry tissues using capillary gas chromatography with solvent venting injection.

PubMed

Maraschiello, C; García Regueiro, J A

1998-08-28

A procedure designed for the determination of retinol (vitamin A) and alpha-tocopherol (vitamin E) in poultry tissues has been developed. The procedure involves lipid extraction, saponification, solid-phase clean-up and capillary gas chromatography (cGC). Retinol and alpha-tocopherol were determined separately by cGC-flame ionisation detection using a fused-silica open tubular capillary column, 30 m x 0.25 mm I.D. coated with 5% phenylmethylsilicone and with a film thickness of 0.25 micron. Solvent extraction followed by saponification were sufficient to provide a purified extract which was directly analyzed for retinol by cGC in the solvent venting mode. However, in order to accurately determine alpha-tocopherol by cGC, further purification of the extract by solid-phase extraction was necessary. A silica SPE column was used to remove interfering cholesterol from the extract. alpha-Tocopherol was analyzed in its derivatized form. Absolute and relative recoveries for both vitamins from spiked samples were evaluated. Absolute and relative recoveries ranging from 80 to 95% were obtained for both compounds. 5 alpha-Cholestane and alpha-tocopheryl acetate were used as internal standards. Poultry muscle meat and liver tissue were analyzed for their retinol and alpha-tocopherol content and the peaks detected by cGC were confirmed by cGC-mass spectrometry.

Responsiveness of intestinal epithelial cell turnover to TGF-alpha after bowel resection in a rat is correlated with EGF receptor expression along the villus-crypt axis.

PubMed

Sukhotnik, Igor; Mogilner, Jorge G; Shaoul, Ron; Karry, Rahel; Lieber, Michael; Suss-Toby, Edith; Ure, Benno M; Coran, Arnold G

2008-01-01

Recent evidence suggests that transforming growth factor alpha (TGF-alpha) enhances enterocyte proliferation and stimulates intestinal adaptation after massive bowel resection. In the present study, we evaluated the effects of TGF-alpha on enterocyte turnover and correlated it with epidermal-growth factor (EGF) receptor expression along the villus-crypt axis in a rat model of short bowel syndrome (SBS). Male rats were divided into three groups, sham rats underwent bowel transection (group A); SBS rats underwent a 75% bowel resection (group B); and SBS/TGF-alpha rats underwent bowel resection and were treated with TGF-alpha (75 microg/kg) (group C) from the seventh postoperative day. Parameters of intestinal adaptation, enterocyte proliferation and apoptosis were determined on day 15. Villus tips, lateral villi and crypts were separated using laser capture microdissection. EGF receptor expression for each compartment was assessed by quantitative real-time PCR (Taqman). Statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA test, with P < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Treatment with TGF-alpha resulted in a significant increase in all parameters of intestinal adaptation. EGF receptor expression in crypts significantly increased in SBS rats (vs sham rats) (0.035 +/- 0.013 vs 0.010 +/- 0.002 Log ng Total RNA/18 s) and was accompanied by a significant increase in enterocyte proliferation (169 +/- 8 vs 138 +/- 5 BrdU positive cells/per 10 crypts, P < 0.05) and decreased apoptosis following TGF-alpha administration (group C). A significant decrease in EGF receptor expression at the tip of the villus (0.005 +/- 0.002 vs 0.029 +/- 0.014 Log ng Total RNA/18 s) and in the lateral villus (0.003 +/- 0.001 vs 0.028 +/- 0.006 Log ng Total RNA/18 s) in SBS (group B) rats (vs sham, group A) was accompanied by increased cell apoptosis in these compartments following treatment with TGF-alpha (group C). In a rat model of SBS, TGF-alpha increased enterocyte proliferation and stimulated intestinal adaptation. The effect of TGF-alpha on enterocyte turnover is correlated with EGF receptor expression along the villus-crypt axis.

The oxidative transformation of sodium arsenite at the interface of alpha-MnO2 and water.

PubMed

Li, Xiu-juan; Liu, Cheng-shuai; Li, Fang-bai; Li, Yong-tao; Zhang, Li-jia; Liu, Chuan-ping; Zhou, Yong-zhang

2010-01-15

Arsenite is acute contaminant to human health in soil and water environment. In this study, Pyrolusite (alpha-MnO(2)) was used to investigate the oxidative transformation of arsenite into arsenate with batch experiments under different reaction conditions. The results showed that arsenite transformation occurred and was accompanied by the adsorption and fixation of both As(III) and As(V) on alpha-MnO(2). About 90% of sodium arsenite (10mg/L) were transformed by alpha-MnO(2) under the conditions of 25 degrees C and pH 6.0, 36.6% of which was adsorbed and 28.9% fixed by alpha-MnO(2). Increased alpha-MnO(2) dosages promoted As (III) transformation rate and adsorption of arsenic species. The transformation rate and adsorption of arsenic species raised with increasing pH values of reaction solution from 4.7 to 8.0. The oxidation rate decreased and adsorbed As(III) and As(V) increased with increasing initial arsenite concentration. The enhancement on oxidative transformation of sodium arsenite may result from abundant active sites of alpha-MnO(2). Along with adsorption and fixation of arsenic species during the reaction, the crystal structure of alpha-MnO(2) did not change, but the surface turned petty and loosen. Our results demonstrated that alpha-MnO(2) has important potential in arsenic transformation and removal as the environmentally friendly natural oxidant in soil and surface water.

Reactivation of the chloroplast CF1-ATPase beta subunit by trace amounts of the CF1 alpha subunit suggests a chaperonin-like activity for CF1 alpha.

PubMed

Avni, A; Avital, S; Gromet-Elhanan, Z

1991-04-25

Incubation of tobacco and lettuce thylakoids with 2 M LiCl in the presence of MgATP removes the beta subunit from their CF1-ATPase (CF1 beta) together with varying amounts of the CF1 alpha subunit (CF1 alpha). These 2 M LiCl extracts, as with the one obtained from spinach thylakoids (Avital, S., and Gromet-Elhanan, Z. (1991) J. Biol. Chem. 266, 7067-7072), could form active hybrid ATPases when reconstituted into inactive beta-less Rhodospirillum rubrum chromatophores. Pure CF1 beta fractions that have been isolated from these extracts could not form such active hybrids by themselves, but could do so when supplemented with trace amounts (less than 5%) of CF1 alpha. A mitochondrial F1-ATPase alpha subunit was recently reported to be a heat-shock protein, having two amino acid sequences that show a highly conserved identity with sequences found in molecular chaperones (Luis, A. M., Alconada, A., and Cuezva, J. M. (1990) J. Biol. Chem. 265, 7713-7716). These sequences are also conserved in CF1 alpha isolated from various plants, but not in F1 beta subunits. The above described reactivation of CF1 beta by trace amounts of CF1 alpha could thus be due to a chaperonin-like function of CF1 alpha, which involves the correct, active folding of isolated pure CF1 beta.

Testing the Difference between Reliability Coefficients Alpha and Omega

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Deng, Lifang; Chan, Wai

2017-01-01

Reliable measurements are key to social science research. Multiple measures of reliability of the total score have been developed, including coefficient alpha, coefficient omega, the greatest lower bound reliability, and others. Among these, the coefficient alpha has been most widely used, and it is reported in nearly every study involving the…

Actin expression in some Platyhelminthe species.

PubMed

Fagotti, A; Panara, F; Di Rosa, I; Simoncelli, F; Gabbiani, G; Pascolini, R

1994-10-01

Actin expression in some Platyhelminthe species was demonstrated by western-blotting and immunocytochemical analysis using two distinct anti-actin antibodies: the anti-total actin that reacts against all actin isoforms of higher vertebrates and the anti-alpha SM-1 that recognizes the alpha-smooth muscle (alpha SM) isotype of endothermic vertebrates (Skalli et al., 1986). Western-blotting experiments showed that all species tested, including some free-living Platyhelminthes (Tricladida and Rhabdocoela) and the parasitic Fasciola hepatica, were stained by anti-total actin antibody while only Dugesidae and Dendrocoelidae showed a positive immunoreactivity against anti-alpha SM-1. These results were confirmed by cytochemical immunolocalization using both avidin biotin conjugated peroxidase reaction on paraffin sections, and immunogold staining on Lowicryl 4KM embedded specimens. Our findings may contribute to the understanding of Platyhelminthes phylogeny.

Simulation of the alpha particle heating and the helium ash source in an International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor-like tokamak with an internal transport barrier

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

Ye, Lei, E-mail: lye@ipp.ac.cn; Guo, Wenfeng; Xiao, Xiaotao

2014-12-15

A guiding center orbit following code, which incorporates a set of non-singular coordinates for orbit integration, was developed and applied to investigate the alpha particle heating in an ITER-like tokamak with an internal transport barrier. It is found that a relatively large q (safety factor) value can significantly broaden the alpha heating profile in comparison with the local heating approximation; this broadening is due to the finite orbit width effects; when the orbit width is much smaller than the scale length of the alpha particle source profile, the heating profile agrees with the source profile, otherwise, the heating profile canmore » be significantly broadened. It is also found that the stagnation particles move to the magnetic axis during the slowing-down process, thus the effect of stagnation orbits is not beneficial to the helium ash removal. The source profile of helium ash is broadened in comparison with the alpha source profile, which is similar to the heating profile.« less

Immediate early gene activation throughout the brain is associated with dynamic changes in social context.

PubMed

Williamson, Cait M; Klein, Inbal S; Lee, Won; Curley, James P

2018-05-31

Social competence is dependent on successful processing of social context information. The social opportunity paradigm is a methodology in which dynamic shifts in social context are induced through removal of the alpha male in a dominance hierarchy, leading to rapid ascent in the hierarchy of the beta male and of other subordinate males in the social group. In the current study, we use the social opportunity paradigm to determine what brain regions respond to this dynamic change in social context, allowing an individual to recognize the absence of the alpha male and subsequently perform status-appropriate social behaviors. Replicating our previous work, we show that following removal of the alpha male, beta males rapidly ascend the social hierarchy and attain dominant status by increasing aggression towards more subordinate individuals. Analysis of patterns of Fos immunoreactivity throughout the brain indicates that in individuals undergoing social ascent, there is increased activity in regions of the social behavior network, as well as the infralimbic and prelimbic regions of the prefrontal cortex and areas of the hippocampus. Our findings demonstrate that male mice are able to respond to changes in social context and provide insight into the how the brain processes these complex behavioral changes.

Studies on G-protein alpha.betagamma heterotrimer formation reveal a putative S-prenyl-binding site in the alpha subunit.

PubMed Central

Dietrich, Alexander; Scheer, Alexander; Illenberger, Daria; Kloog, Yoel; Henis, Yoav I; Gierschik, Peter

2003-01-01

The alpha and betagamma subunits of heterotrimeric G-proteins contain specific lipid modifications, which are required for their biological function. However, the relevance of these modifications to the interactions within the heterotrimeric G-protein is not fully understood. In order to explore the role of the S-prenyl moiety of the isoprenylated betagamma dimer of retinal transducin, betagamma(t), in the formation of the heterotrimeric complex with the corresponding N-acylated alpha subunit, alpha(t), we employed purified fully processed subunits, which are soluble in aqueous solutions without detergents. Pertussis-toxin-mediated [(32)P]ADP-ribosylation of alpha(t) is strongly stimulated (approximately 10-fold) in the presence of betagamma(t) and can thus serve as a measure for heterotrimer formation. Using this assay, preincubation of alpha(t) with S-prenyl analogues containing farnesyl or geranylgeranyl moieties was found to inhibit heterotrimer formation in a dose-dependent manner. The inhibition was competitive and reversible, as indicated by its reversal upon increase of the betagamma(t) dimer concentration or by removal of the S-prenyl analogue using gel filtration. The competitive nature of the inhibition is supported by the marked attenuation of the inhibition when the S-prenyl analogue was added to alpha(t) together with or after betagamma(t). The inhibition does not involve interaction with the alpha(t) acyl group, since an S-prenyl analogue inhibited the [(32)P]ADP-ribosylation of an unlipidated alpha(t) mutant. These data suggest the existence of a hitherto unrecognized S-prenyl-binding site in alpha(t), which is critical for its interaction with prenylated betagamma(t). PMID:12952523

Functional properties of an isolated. cap alpha beta. heterodimeric human placenta insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor complex

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

Feltz, S.M.; Swanson, M.L.; Wemmie, J.A.

1988-05-03

Treatment of human placenta membranes at pH 8.5 in the presence of 2.0 mM dithiothreitol (DTT) for 5 min, followed by the simultaneous removal of the DTT and pH adjustment of pH 7.6, resulted in the formation of a functional ..cap alpha beta.. heterodimeric insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) receptor complex from the native ..cap alpha../sub 2/..beta../sub 2/ heterotetrameric disulfide-linked state. The membrane-bound ..cap alpha beta.. heterodimeric complex displayed similar curvilinear /sup 125/I-IGF-1 equilibrium binding compared to the ..cap alpha../sub 2/..beta../sub 2/ heterotetrameric complex. /sup 125/I-IGF-1 binding to both the isolated ..cap alpha../sub 2/..beta../sub 2/ heterotetrameric and ..cap alpha beta..more » heterodimeric complexes demonstrated a marked straightening of the Scatchard plots, compared to the placenta membrane-bound IGF-1 receptors, with a 2-fold increase in the high-affinity binding component. IGF-1 stimulation of IGF-1 receptor autophosphorylation indicated that the ligand-dependent activation of ..cap alpha beta.. heterodimeric protein kinase activity occurred concomitant with the reassociation into a covalent ..cap alpha../sub 2/..beta../sub 2/ heterotetrameric state. These data demonstrate that (i) a combination of alkaline pH and DTT treatment of human placenta membranes results in the formation of an ..cap alpha beta.. heterodimeric IGF-1 receptor complex, (ii) unlike the insulin receptor, high-affinity homogeneous IGF-1 binding occurs in both the ..cap alpha../sub 2/..beta../sub 2/ heterotetrameric and ..cap alpha beta.. heterodimeric complexes, and (iii) IGF-1-dependent autophosphorylation of the ..cap alpha beta.. heterodimeric IGF-1 receptor complex correlates wit an IGF-1 dependent covalent reassociation into an ..cap alpha../sub 2/..beta../sub 2/ heterotetrameric disulfide-linked state.« less

Effect of hexylene glycol-altered microtubule distributions on cytokinesis and polar lobe formation in fertilized eggs of Ilyanassa obsoleta

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Conrad, A. H.; Stephens, A. P.; Conrad, G. W.; Spooner, B. S. (Principal Investigator)

1994-01-01

Some effects of gravity on early morphogenesis are correlated with microtubule locations within cells. During first cleavage in Ilyanassa obsoleta embryos, a transitory polar lobe constriction forms and then relaxes, allowing the polar lobe to merge with one daughter cell. If the polar lobe is equally divided or removed, morphogenesis is severely disrupted. To examine microtuble locations during early Ilyanassa development, eggs were fixed and stained for polymerized alpha-tubulin during first cleavage. The mitotic apparatus assembles at the animal pole. The cleavage furrow forms between the asters, constricting to a stabilized intercellular bridge encircling midbody-bound microtubules, whereas the polar lobe constriction forms below and parallel to the spindle, constricting to a transitory intercellular bridge encircling no detectable microtubules. At metaphase an alpha-tubulin epitope is distributed throughout the spindle, whereas a beta-tubulin epitope is present predominantly in the asters. Incubation in hexylene glycol, a drug that increases microtubule polymerization, during mitosis causes the polar lobe constriction to tighten around polymerized alpha-tubulin and remain stably constricted. If hexylene glycol is removed, alpha-tubulin staining disappears from the polar lobe constriction, which relaxes, whereas microtubules remain in the cleavage furrow, which remains constricted. These observations suggest that asymmetric distribution of microtubules affects early Ilyanassa cleavage patterns, and that continued presence of microtubules extending through an intercellular bridge is important for stabilization of the bridge constriction prior to completion of cytokinesis. These data provide the basis for further analysis of the role of microtubules in possible microgravity disruptions of Ilyanassa development.

Interleukin-1 and tumor necrosis factor alpha inhibit repair of the porcine meniscus in vitro

PubMed Central

Hennerbichler, Alfred; Moutos, Franklin T.; Hennerbichler, Diana; Weinberg, J. Brice; Guilak, Farshid

2011-01-01

OBJECTIVE Injury or removal of the knee meniscus leads to progressive joint degeneration, and current surgical therapies for meniscal tears seek to maximally preserve meniscal structure and function. However, the factors that influence intrinsic repair of the meniscus are not well understood. The goal of this study was to investigate the capacity of meniscus tissue to repair a simulated defect in vitro and to examine the effect of pro-inflammatory cytokines on this process. METHODS Cylindrical explants were harvested from the outer one-third of medial porcine menisci. To simulate a full-thickness defect, a central core was removed and reinserted immediately into the defect. Explants were cultured for 2, 4, or 6 weeks in serum-containing media in the presence or absence of interleukin-1 (IL-1) or tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), and meniscal repair was investigated using mechanical testing and fluorescence confocal microscopy. RESULTS Meniscal lesions in untreated samples showed a significant capacity for intrinsic repair in vitro, with increasing cell accumulation and repair strength over time in culture. In the presence of IL-1 or TNF-alpha, no repair was observed despite the presence of abundant viable cells. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates that the meniscus exhibits an intrinsic repair response in vitro. However, the presence of pro-inflammatory cytokines completely inhibited repair. These findings suggest that increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines post-injury or under arthritic conditions may inhibit meniscal repair. Therefore, inhibition of these cytokines may provide a means of accelerating repair of damaged or injured menisci in vivo. PMID:17448702

The effect of weight loss on inflammation in obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome.

PubMed

Olszanecka-Glinianowicz, Magdalena; Zahorska-Markiewicz, Barbara; Kocełak, Piotr; Janowska, Joanna; Semik-Grabarczyk, Elzbieta

2008-01-01

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of modest weight reduction on serum concentrations of tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), TNF soluble receptors (sTNFRs) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The study group consisted of 15 obese women with PCOS (mean age 28.5 +/- 7.7 years). Serum concentrations of TNF-alpha, sTNFRs and IL-6, insulin, FSH, LH, DHEAS, androstendione, total and free testosterone, cortisol, 17OH-progesterone, oestradiol and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), glucose, total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and triglycerides were measured before treatment and after 10% weight loss. All patients were advised to follow a 1000-1200 kcal diet with a limited intake of simple carbohydrate and animal fats and to exercise regularly (30 min, 3 times a week). Body composition was measured by bioimpedance. Serum concentrations of TNF-alpha, sTNFRs and IL-6 were determined by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Plasma insulin, FSH, LH, DHEAS, androstendione, total and free testosterone, cortisol, 17OH-progesterone, oestradiol and SHBG were measured by a commercial RIA. Blood glucose, total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and triglycerides were measured by an enzymatic procedure. We observed no differences in serum concentrations of TNF-alpha, sTNFRs or IL-6 after treatment. It seems that more than a modest weight reduction is necessary to obtain a decrease in serum concentrations of proinflammatory cytokines and an improvement in ovarian function in obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome.

Removal of long-lived 222Rn daughters by electropolishing thin layers of stainless steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schnee, R. W.; Bowles, M. A.; Bunker, R.; McCabe, K.; White, J.; Cushman, P.; Pepin, M.; Guiseppe, V. E.

2013-08-01

Long-lived alpha and beta emitters in the 222Rn decay chain on detector surfaces may be the limiting background in many experiments attempting to detect dark matter or neutrinoless double beta decay. Removal of tens of microns of material via electropolishing has been shown to be effective at removing radon daughters implanted into material surfaces. Some applications, however, require the removal of uniform and significantly smaller thicknesses. Here, we demonstrate that electropolishing < 1 μm from stainless-steel plates reduces the contamination efficiently, by a factor > 100. Examination of electropolished wires with a scanning electron microscope confirms that the thickness removed is reproducible and reasonably uniform. Together, these tests demonstrate the effectiveness of removal of radon daughters for a proposed low-radiation, multi-wire proportional chamber (the BetaCage), without compromising the screener's energy resolution. More generally, electropolishing thin layers of stainless steel may effectively remove radon daughters without compromising precision-machined parts.

Removal of long-lived {sup 222}Rn daughters by electropolishing thin layers of stainless steel

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

Schnee, R. W.; Bowles, M. A.; Bunker, R.

Long-lived alpha and beta emitters in the {sup 222}Rn decay chain on detector surfaces may be the limiting background in many experiments attempting to detect dark matter or neutrinoless double beta decay. Removal of tens of microns of material via electropolishing has been shown to be effective at removing radon daughters implanted into material surfaces. Some applications, however, require the removal of uniform and significantly smaller thicknesses. Here, we demonstrate that electropolishing < 1 μm from stainless-steel plates reduces the contamination efficiently, by a factor > 100. Examination of electropolished wires with a scanning electron microscope confirms that the thicknessmore » removed is reproducible and reasonably uniform. Together, these tests demonstrate the effectiveness of removal of radon daughters for a proposed low-radiation, multi-wire proportional chamber (the BetaCage), without compromising the screener’s energy resolution. More generally, electropolishing thin layers of stainless steel may effectively remove radon daughters without compromising precision-machined parts.« less

[Method of component assay of alpha-glucosyltransferase-treated stevia (enzymatically modified stevia) products using enzymatic hydrolysis].

PubMed

Hirata, Keiko; Shimamura, Yasuhiro; Suzuki, Keiko; Sadamasu, Yuki; Ito, Koichi

2005-12-01

We have developed an analytical method for components of alpha-glucosyltransferase-treated stevia, a food additive product. Suitable conditions to separate additional sugar from alpha-glucosyltransferase-treated stevia by using glucoamylase were found (55 degrees C for 3 hr with 250 U of glucoamylase in 10 mL of reaction solution). By solid-phase extraction using a C18 cartridge column, polysaccharides were excluded from the sample, and the glycosides and sugar obtained after hydrolysis with glucoamylase were separated on another C18 cartridge column. The glycosides and sugar contents were determined by HPLC. By this method, additional sugar was detected in all of three product samples tested and the sugar was glucose. The contents of glucose and total glycosides (minus unreacted glycoside) were 25-42% and 35.7-52.5%, respectively. In alpha-glucosyltransferase-treated stevia, the sum of total glycosides and glucose amounted to 77.5-80.4% of the total and their recoveries from samples from which polysaccharide had been excluded by C18 cartridge column processing were over 85%. The contents of alpha-glucosyltransferase-treated stevia obtained by multiplying the sugar content by the coefficient (0.9) for hydrolysis and converting on dry weight basis were all over 80.0% and met the standard set by the Japan Food Additives Association.

Effects of thalidomide in experimental models of post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis.

PubMed

Xiong, Guang-Su; Wu, Shu-Ming; Wang, Zhen-Hua; Mo, Jian-Zhong; Xiao, Shu-Dong

2007-03-01

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) plays a central role in the pathogenesis of acute pancreatitis and related systemic complications. The authors hypothesized that it may also play an important role in the development of pancreatitis after endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). The aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of thalidomide, an immunomodulator that exerts an inhibitory action on TNF-alpha by enhancing mRNA degradation, in reducing post-ERCP pancreatitis in a rat model. A total of 200 mg/kg thalidomide was given intragastric once a day (total 8 days) before the experimental models of post-ERCP pancreatitis were established. After 24 h, histology and edema of pancreas, serum amylase, and TNF-alpha mRNA in the pancreatic tissue were evaluated. Intraductal contrast infusion caused increases in serum amylase, edema, histological grade, and TNF-alpha mRNA of pancreas. The prophylactic use of thalidomide significantly reduced serum amylase, pancreatic edema and the histologic grade of pancreatitis accompanied by a decrease in mRNA expression of TNF-alpha in the pancreatic tissue. Prophylactic intragastric administration of thalidomide provides a protective effect in post-ERCP pancreatitis. The mechanism of the protective effects of thalidomide seems to be the reduction of expression of TNF-alpha mRNA in pancreatic tissue.

Disruption of the processing alpha-mannosidase gene does not prevent outer chain synthesis in Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

PubMed

Puccia, R; Grondin, B; Herscovics, A

1993-02-15

Processing of N-linked oligosaccharides in Saccharomyces cerevisiae begins with the removal of glucose and mannose residues from Glc3Man9GlcNAc2 to form a single isomer of Man8GlcNAc2. The importance of mannose removal for subsequent outer chain synthesis was examined in strains of S. cerevisiae disrupted in the MNS1 gene encoding a specific alpha 1,2-mannosidase responsible for Man8GlcNAc2 synthesis [Camirand, Heysen, Grondin and Herscovics (1991) J. Biol. Chem. 266, 15120-15127]. Both MNS1 transcripts of 1.85 kb and 1.7 kb were not observed in Northern blots of mns1 cells (i.e. cells containing the disrupted gene). Analysis on Bio-Gel P-6 of endo-beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase-H-sensitive oligosaccharides following a 10 min pulse with [2-3H]mannose revealed similar amounts of labelled outer chains excluded from the gel in both control and mns1 cells. H.p.l.c. of the included oligosaccharides showed that a Man9GlcNAc, rather than a Man8GlcNAc, intermediate was formed in mns1 cells. Analysis of [3H]mannose-labelled core oligosaccharides from immunoprecipitated CPY and invertase by h.p.l.c. showed a similar size distribution in mns1 and control cells. Invertase immunoprecipitated from [35S]methionine-labelled mns1 cells was highly glycosylated, but migrated slightly faster than that from control cells on denaturing PAGE, indicating a small difference in glycosylation. A similar difference in mobility was observed for invertase activity stain following non-denaturing gel electrophoresis. It is concluded that the alpha-mannosidase encoded by MNS1 is the only enzyme responsible for mannose removal in vivo, and that this processing step is not essential for outer chain synthesis.

Crystal structure and magnetic properties of '{alpha} Prime Prime -Fe{sub 16}N{sub 2}' containing residual {alpha}-Fe prepared by low-temperature ammonia nitridation

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

Yamashita, S.; Masubuchi, Y.; Nakazawa, Y.

2012-10-15

Slight enhancement of saturation magnetization to 219 A m{sup 2} kg{sup -1} was observed from 199 A m{sup 2} kg{sup -1} for the original {alpha}-Fe on the intermediate nitrided mixture of '{alpha} Prime Prime -Fe{sub 16}N{sub 2}' with residual {alpha}-Fe among the low temperature ammonia nitridation products under 5 T magnetic field at room temperature. The value changed not linearly against the yield as had been expected. Crystal structure refinement indicated that the phase similar to {alpha} Prime Prime -Fe{sub 16}N{sub 2} had deviations on its lattice constants and positional parameters, compared to previously reported values for {alpha} Prime Primemore » -Fe{sub 16}N{sub 2}. Spin-polarized total energy calculations were performed using the projector-augmented wave method as implemented in the Vienna ab-initio simulation package (VASP) to calculate magnetic moment on the refined crystal structure of the intermediate '{alpha} Prime Prime -Fe{sub 16}N{sub 2}'. The calculations supported the observed magnetization enhancement in the intermediate nitridation product. - Graphical abstract: Crystal structural parameters slightly change in the intermediate nitrided '{alpha} Prime Prime -Fe{sub 16}N{sub 2}' from those in {alpha} Prime Prime -Fe{sub 16}N{sub 2} to show the magnetization maxima in the mixture of '{alpha} Prime Prime -Fe{sub 16}N{sub 2}' and the residual {alpha}-F. Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Larger magnetization was observed than the value of Fe{sub 16}N{sub 2} on its intermediate nitrided mixture with residual {alpha}-Fe. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The enhancement was related to the crystal structural deviation from Fe{sub 16}N{sub 2} on the intermediate nitride. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer It was supported by spin-polarized total energy calculation using the deviated structure.« less

Communication requirements of sparse Cholesky factorization with nested dissection ordering

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Naik, Vijay K.; Patrick, Merrell L.

1989-01-01

Load distribution schemes for minimizing the communication requirements of the Cholesky factorization of dense and sparse, symmetric, positive definite matrices on multiprocessor systems are presented. The total data traffic in factoring an n x n sparse symmetric positive definite matrix representing an n-vertex regular two-dimensional grid graph using n exp alpha, alpha not greater than 1, processors are shown to be O(n exp 1 + alpha/2). It is O(n), when n exp alpha, alpha not smaller than 1, processors are used. Under the conditions of uniform load distribution, these results are shown to be asymptotically optimal.

RP-1551s, a family of azaphilones produced by Penicillium sp., inhibit the binding of PDGF to the extracellular domain of its receptor.

PubMed

Toki, S; Tanaka, T; Uosaki, Y; Yoshida, M; Suzuki, Y; Kita, K; Mihara, A; Ando, K; Lokker, N A; Giese, N A; Matsuda, Y

1999-03-01

Nine azaphilones designated RP-1551-1, -2, -3, -4, -5, -6, -7, -M1, and -M2 were isolated from the culture broth of Penicillium sp. SPC-21609 as inhibitors of PDGF binding to its receptor. RP-1551s inhibit the binding of PDGF AA to the extracellular domain of PDGF alpha-receptor with IC50 values ranging from 0.1 to 2 microM without affecting PDGF BB binding to the extracellular domain of PDGF beta-receptor. PDGF binding was not restored after the PDGF alpha-receptor extracellular domain was washed in an attempt to remove the RP-1551-1 bound to the receptor. This result suggests that RP-1551-1 may irreversibly interact with the PDGF alpha-receptor. Since many azaphilone compounds possess high reactivity with an amino group, RP-1551-1 may prevent PDGF AA binding by reacting with amino groups on the alpha-receptor extracellular domain.

Identification of the protein responsible for pyruvate transport into rat liver and heart mitochondria by specific labelling with [3H]N-phenylmaleimide.

PubMed

Thomas, A P; Halestrap, A P

1981-05-15

1. N-Phenylmaleimide irreversibly inhibits pyruvate transport into rat heart and liver mitochondria to a much greater extent than does N-ethylmaleimide, iodoacetate or bromopyruvate. alpha-Cyanocinnamate protects the pyruvate transporter from attack by this thiol-blocking reagent. 2. In both heart and liver mitochondria alpha-cyanocinnamate diminishes labelling by [3H]N-phenylmaleimide of a membrane protein of subunit mol.wt. 15000 on sodium dodecyl sulphate/polyacrylamide-gel electrophoresis. 3. Exposure of mitochondrial to unlabelled N-phenylmaleimide in the presence of alpha-cyanocinnamate, followed by removal of alpha-cyanocinnamate and exposure to [3H]N-phenylmaleimide, produced specific labelling of the same protein. 4. Both labelling and kinetic experiments with inhibitors gave values for the approximate amount of carrier present in liver and heart mitochondria of 100 and 450 pmol/mg of mitochondrial protein respectively. 5. The turnover numbers for net pyruvate transport and pyruvate exchange at 0 degrees C were 6 and 200 min-1 respectively.

Mutant alpha-synuclein overexpression mediates early proinflammatory activity.

PubMed

Su, Xiaomin; Federoff, Howard J; Maguire-Zeiss, Kathleen A

2009-10-01

Microglia provide immune surveillance for the brain through both the removal of cellular debris and protection against infection by microorganisms and "foreign" molecules. Upon activation, microglia display an altered morphology and increased expression of proinflammatory molecules. Increased numbers of activated microglia have been identified in a number of neurodegenerative diseases including Parkinson's disease (PD). What remains to be determined is whether activated microglia result from ongoing cell death or are involved in disease initiation and progression. To address this question we utilized a transgenic mouse model that expresses a mutated form of a key protein involved in Parkinson's disease, alpha-synuclein. Herein, we report an increase in activated microglia and proinflammatory molecules in 1-month-old transgenic mice well before cell death occurs in this model. Frank microglial activation is resolved by 6 months of age while a subset of proinflammatory molecules remain elevated for 12 months. Both tyrosine hydroxylase mRNA expression and alpha-synuclein protein are decreased in the striatum of older animals evidence of dystrophic neuritic projections. To determine whether mutated alpha-synuclein could directly activate microglia primary microglia-enriched cell cultures were treated with exogenous mutated alpha-synuclein. The data reveal an increase in activated microglia and proinflammatory molecules due to direct interaction with mutated alpha-synuclein. Together, these data demonstrate that mutated alpha-synuclein mediates a proinflammatory response in microglia and this activity may participate in PD pathogenesis.

Persistent tumor necrosis factor signaling in normal human fibroblasts prevents the complete resynthesis of I kappa B-alpha.

PubMed

Poppers, D M; Schwenger, P; Vilcek, J

2000-09-22

Transcription factor NF-kappa B is normally sequestered in the cytoplasm, complexed with I kappa B inhibitory proteins. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and interleukin-1 induce I kappa B-alpha phosphorylation, leading to I kappa B-alpha degradation and translocation of NF-kappa B to the nucleus where it activates genes important in inflammatory and immune responses. TNF and interleukin-1 actions are typically terminated by desensitization, and I kappa B-alpha reappearance normally occurs within 30-60 min. We found that in normal human FS-4 fibroblasts maintained in the presence of TNF, I kappa B-alpha protein failed to return to base-line levels for up to 15 h. Removal of TNF at any time during the 15-h period resulted in complete I kappa B-alpha resynthesis, suggesting that I kappa B-alpha reappearance was prevented by continued TNF signaling. Long term exposure of FS-4 fibroblasts to TNF led to a persistent presence of I kappa B-alpha mRNA, sustained I kappa B kinase activation, continuous proteasome-mediated degradation of I kappa B-alpha, and sustained nuclear localization of NF-kappa B. Continuous exposure of FS-4 cells to TNF did not lead to a sustained activation of p38 or ERK mitogen-activated protein kinases, suggesting that not all TNF-induced signaling pathways are persistently activated. These findings challenge the notion that all cytokine-mediated signals are rapidly terminated by desensitization and illustrate the need to elucidate the process of deactivation of TNF-induced signaling.

The morphological and chemical characteristics of striatal neurons immunoreactive for the alpha1-subunit of the GABA(A) receptor in the rat.

PubMed

Waldvogel, H J; Kubota, Y; Trevallyan, S C; Kawaguchi, Y; Fritschy, J M; Mohler, H; Faull, R L

1997-10-01

The distribution, morphology and chemical characteristics of neurons immunoreactive for the alpha1-subunit of the GABA(A) receptor in the striatum of the basal ganglia in the rat brain were investigated at the light, confocal and electron microscope levels using single, double and triple immunohistochemical labelling techniques. The results showed that alpha1-subunit immunoreactive neurons were sparsely distributed throughout the rat striatum. Double and triple labelling results showed that all the alpha1-subunit-immunoreactive neurons were positive for glutamate decarboxylase and immunoreactive for the beta2,3 and gamma2 subunits of the GABA(A) receptor. Three types of alpha1-subunit-immunoreactive neurons were identified in the striatum on the basis of cellular morphology and chemical characteristics. The most numerous alpha1-subunit-immunoreactive neurons were medium-sized, aspiny neurons with a widely branching dendritic tree. They were parvalbumin-negative and were located mainly in the dorsolateral regions of the striatum. Electron microscopy showed that these neurons had an indented nuclear membrane, typical of striatal interneurons, and were surrounded by small numbers of axon terminals which established alpha1-subunit-immunoreactive synaptic contacts with the soma and dendrites. These cells were classified as type 1 alpha1-subunit-immunoreactive neurons and comprised 75% of the total population of alpha1-subunit-immunoreactive neurons in the striatum. The remaining alpha1-subunit-immunoreactive neurons comprised of a heterogeneous population of large-sized neurons localized in the ventral and medial regions of the striatum. The most numerous large-sized cells were parvalbumin-negative, had two to three relatively short branching dendrites and were designated type 2 alpha1-subunit-immunoreactive neurons. Electron microscopy showed that the type 2 neurons were characterized by a highly convoluted nuclear membrane and were sparsely covered with small axon terminals. The type 2 neurons comprised 20% of the total population of alpha1-subunit-immunoreactive neurons. The remaining large-sized alpha1-immunoreactive cells were designated type 3 cells; they were positive for parvalbumin and were distinguished by long branching dendrites extending dorsally for 600-800 microm into the striatum. These neurons comprised 5% of the total population of alpha1-subunit-immunoreactive neurons and were surrounded by enkephalin-immunoreactive terminals. Electron microscopy showed that the alpha1-subunit type 3 neurons had an indented nuclear membrane and were densely covered with small axon terminals which established alpha1-subunit-immunoreactive symmetrical synaptic contacts with the soma and dendrites. These results provide a detailed characterization of the distribution, morphology and chemical characteristics of the alpha1-subunit-immunoreactive neurons in the rat striatum and suggest that the type 1 and type 2 neurons comprise of separate populations of striatal interneurons while the type 3 neurons may represent the large striatonigral projection neurons described by Bolam et al. [Bolam J. P., Somogyi P., Totterdell S. and Smith A. D. (1981) Neuroscience 6, 2141-2157.].

Amelioration in secretion of hyperthermostable and Ca2+ -independent alpha-amylase of Geobacillus thermoleovorans by some polyamines and their biosynthesis inhibitor methylglyoxal-bis-guanylhydrazone.

PubMed

Uma Maheswar Rao, J L; Satyanarayana, T

2004-01-01

Effect of polyamines and their biosynthesis inhibitors on the production of hyperthermostable and Ca2+ -independent alpha-amylase by Geobacillus thermoleovorans MTCC 4220. The alpha-amylase was produced in starch-yeast extract-tryptone (SYT) broth with different polyamines (PA) and polyamine biosynthesis inhibitors, methylglyoxal-bis-guanylhydrazone (MGBG) and cyclohexylammonium sulphate (CHA) at 70 degrees C. The bacterial pellets were obtained after growing G. thermoleovorans at different temperatures, and used in determining total PA. The cell-free culture filtrates were used in alpha-amylase assays. During growth, total polyamines in biomass increased till 2 h, and thereafter, decreased gradually. The total polyamine content was very high in the biomass cultivated at 55 degrees C when compared with that of higher temperatures. Enzyme titre enhanced up to 70 degrees C, and thereafter declined. Extracellular enzyme and protein levels declined in the presence of exogenously added PA. The intracellular enzyme titres, however, were higher in putrescine (put) and spermidine (spd) than in spermine (spm). Polyamine biosynthesis inhibitor, MGBG enhanced secretion of alpha-amylase in a laboratory fermentor as well as shake flasks, although CHA did not affect it. The intracellular accumulation of put in the presence of MGBG appeared to enhance synthesis and secretion of alpha-amylase. Extracellular enzyme and protein levels were low in the presence of exogenously added PA, but their intracellular levels, however, were higher in put and spd than in spm. A substantial increase in the synthesis and secretion of alpha-amylase was attained in G. thermoleovorans in the presence of polyamine biosynthesis inhibitor MGBG.

7alpha- and 12alpha-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases from Acinetobacter calcoaceticus lwoffii: a new integrated chemo-enzymatic route to ursodeoxycholic acid.

PubMed

Giovannini, Pier Paolo; Grandini, Alessandro; Perrone, Daniela; Pedrini, Paola; Fantin, Giancarlo; Fogagnolo, Marco

2008-12-22

We report the very efficient biotransformation of cholic acid to 7-keto- and 7,12-diketocholic acids with Acinetobacter calcoaceticus lwoffii. The enzymes responsible of the biotransformation (i.e. 7alpha- and 12alpha-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases) are partially purified and employed in a new chemo-enzymatic synthesis of ursodeoxycholic acid starting from cholic acid. The first step is the 12alpha-HSDH-mediated total oxidation of sodium cholate followed by the Wolf-Kishner reduction of the carbonyl group to chenodeoxycholic acid. This acid is then quantitatively oxidized with 7alpha-HSDH to 7-ketochenodeoxycholic acid, that was chemically reduced to ursodeoxycholic acid (70% overall yield).

A new stable alpha chain variant: Hb Basel [alpha14(A12)Trp-->Leu (alpha1)].

PubMed

Hergersberg, Martin; Brunner-Agten, Saskia; Kühne, Thomas; Paulussen, Michael; Huber, Andreas R

2010-06-01

We describe a heterozygosity for a new missense mutation on the alpha1-globin gene of an 18-year-old woman of Portuguese ancestry with severe hypochromic anemia and iron deficiency. Hemoglobin (Hb) analysis by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) found a prominent peak constituting about 12% of total Hb. Sequencing of the globin genes of the index patient found the mutation alpha14(A12)Trp-->Leu (alpha1), HBA1:c.44G

Psychometric properties of the Social Skills Questionnaire: Portuguese adaptation of the student form (grades 7 to 12).

PubMed

Mota, Catarina Pinheiro; Matos, Paula Mena; Lemos, Marina Serra

2011-05-01

The present study aims to analyze the psychometric properties of the student form (Grades 7 to 12) of the Social Skills Questionnaire authored by Gresham and Elliott (1990), on a sample of Portuguese adolescents. Participants included 573 students, both female and male, aged 14 to 19. Reliability was assessed through Cronbach's alpha and was .87 for the total scale, ranging from.58 to .72 for the subscales. A confirmatory factor analysis revealed that the main adjustment indices presented unexpected values. A principal components analysis indicated that several items of the cooperation subscale correlated with other factors. Adequate adjustment indices were found when cooperation was removed from the model. Semantic dualities due to cultural factors and difficulties assuming the cooperation dimension as an independent dimension might explain the results observed. The reorganization of the SSQ offers a reliable and valid instrument for research within the Portuguese population.

Comparing Fit and Reliability Estimates of a Psychological Instrument Using Second-Order CFA, Bifactor, and Essentially Tau-Equivalent (Coefficient Alpha) Models via AMOS 22

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Black, Ryan A.; Yang, Yanyun; Beitra, Danette; McCaffrey, Stacey

2015-01-01

Estimation of composite reliability within a hierarchical modeling framework has recently become of particular interest given the growing recognition that the underlying assumptions of coefficient alpha are often untenable. Unfortunately, coefficient alpha remains the prominent estimate of reliability when estimating total scores from a scale with…

Adsorption behavior of alpha -cypermethrin on cork and activated carbon.

PubMed

Domingues, Valentina F; Priolo, Giuseppe; Alves, Arminda C; Cabral, Miguel F; Delerue-Matos, Cristina

2007-08-01

Studies were undertaken to determine the adsorption behavior of alpha -cypermethrin [R)-alpha -cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl(1S)-cis-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate, and (S)-alpha-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl (1R)-cis-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate] in solutions on granules of cork and activated carbon (GAC). The adsorption studies were carried out using a batch equilibrium technique. A gas chromatograph with an electron capture detector (GC-ECD) was used to analyze alpha -cypermethrin after solid phase extraction with C18 disks. Physical properties including real density, pore volume, surface area and pore diameter of cork were evaluated by mercury porosimetry. Characterization of cork particles showed variations thereby indicating the highly heterogeneous structure of the material. The average surface area of cork particles was lower than that of GAC. Kinetics adsorption studies allowed the determination of the equilibrium time - 24 hours for both cork (1-2 mm and 3-4 mm) and GAC. For the studied alpha -cypermethrin concentration range, GAC revealed to be a better sorbent. However, adsorption parameters for equilibrium concentrations, obtained through the Langmuir and Freundlich models, showed that granulated cork 1-2 mm have the maximum amount of adsorbed alpha-cypermethrin (q(m)) (303 microg/g); followed by GAC (186 microg/g) and cork 3-4 mm (136 microg/g). The standard deviation (SD) values, demonstrate that Freundlich model better describes the alpha -cypermethrin adsorption phenomena on GAC, while alpha -cypermethrin adsorption on cork (1-2 mm and 3-4 mm) is better described by the Langmuir. In view of the adsorption results obtained in this study it appears that granulated cork may be a better and a cheaper alternative to GAC for removing alpha -cypermethrin from water.

Process for preparing fluorine-18

DOEpatents

Winchell, Harry S.; Wells, Dale K.; Lamb, James F.; Beaudry, Samuel B.

1976-09-21

An improved process for preparation of fluorine-18 by a neon (deuteron, alpha particle) fluorine-18 nuclear reaction in a non-reactive enclosed reaction zone wherein a ultrapure product is recovered by heating the reaction zone to a high temperature and removing the product with an inert gas.

Microwave-assisted synthesis of cyclodextrin polyurethanes

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Cyclodextrin (CD) has often been incorporated into polyurethanes in order to facilitate its use in encapsulation or removal of organic species for various applications. In this work a microwave-assisted method has been developed to produce polyurethanes consisting of alpha-, ß-, and gamma-CD and thr...

Denitrification-Efficiencies of Alternate Carbon Sources

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-07-01

carbon source evaluated, while sweet whey, corn steep liquor , acid whey and soluble potato solids followed in order of decreasing efficiency. Three of...denitrification and total organic carbon removal with ’I. sweet whey 11 3. Percent denitrification and total organic carbon removal with corn steep liquor ...and total organic carbon removal with hydrolyzed sludge 18 10. Percent denitrification and total organic carbon removal with fish stick 19 11

All-Sky Observational Evidence for An Inverse Correlation Between Dust Temperature and Emissivity Spectral Index

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Liang, Z.; Fixsen, D. J.; Gold, B.

2012-01-01

We show that a one-component variable-emissivity-spectral-index model (the free- model) provides more physically motivated estimates of dust temperature at the Galactic polar caps than one- or two-component fixed-emissivity-spectral-index models (fixed- models) for interstellar dust thermal emission at far-infrared and millimeter wavelengths. For the comparison we have fit all-sky one-component dust models with fixed or variable emissivity spectral index to a new and improved version of the 210-channel dust spectra from the COBE-FIRAS, the 100-240 micrometer maps from the COBE-DIRBE and the 94 GHz dust map from the WMAP. The best model, the free-alpha model, is well constrained by data at 60-3000 GHz over 86 per cent of the total sky area. It predicts dust temperature (T(sub dust)) to be 13.7-22.7 (plus or minus 1.3) K, the emissivity spectral index (alpha) to be 1.2-3.1 (plus or minus 0.3) and the optical depth (tau) to range 0.6-46 x 10(exp -5) with a 23 per cent uncertainty. Using these estimates, we present all-sky evidence for an inverse correlation between the emissivity spectral index and dust temperature, which fits the relation alpha = 1/(delta + omega (raised dot) T(sub dust) with delta = -.0.510 plus or minus 0.011 and omega = 0.059 plus or minus 0.001. This best model will be useful to cosmic microwave background experiments for removing foreground dust contamination and it can serve as an all-sky extended-frequency reference for future higher resolution dust models.

alpha-Galactosidase from Bacillus megaterium VHM1 and its application in removal of flatulence-causing factors from soymilk.

PubMed

Patil, Aravind Goud G; K, Praveen Kumar S; Mulimani, Veerappa H; Veeranagouda, Yaligara; Lee, Kyoung

2010-11-01

A bacterial strain capable of producing extracellular alpha-galactosidase was isolated from sugar cane industrial waste soil sample. Microbiological, physiological, and biochemical studies revealed that isolate belonged to Bacillus sp,. Furthermore, 16S rDNA sequence analysis of new isolates was identified as Bacillus megaterium VHM1. The production of alpha-galactosidase was optimized by various physical culture conditions. Guar gum and yeast extract acted as the best carbon and nitrogen source, respectively for the production of alpha-galactosidase. The enzyme showed an optimum pH at 7.5 and was stable over a pH between 5 and 9. The enzyme was optimally active in 55degreesC and the enzyme was thermostable with half life of 120 minutes at 55 degrees C and lost their 90%, residual activity in 120 minutes at 60 degrees C. alpha-Galactosidase was strongly inhibited by Ag2, Cu2, and Hg2+ at 1mM concentration. The metal ions Fe2, Mn2+, and Mg2+ had no effect on alpha-galactosidase activity, Zn2+,Ni2+, and Ca2+ reduced the enzyme activity slightly. The B megaterium VHM1 enzyme treatment completely hydrolyzed flatulence-causing sugars of soymilk within one and half hour.

Proceedings of the Workshop on Nondestructive Evaluation (NDE) of Titanium Alloys (2nd) Held on 2-4 February 1982 at the Naval Research Laboratory, Underwater Sound Reference Detachment, Orlando, Florida.

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-07-01

phase. The second step, swabbing with a 1 ml HF, 2 ml HN0 3 , 97 ml water solution, removed the stain, leaving a light field of alpha phase material in...microscope (SEM), the beta phase appeared as finely dispersed light lines in a dark - field of alpha phase material. 4.2 Ultrasonic Measurements The...appropriate couplants were used in this research. Aerotech couplant • (a light oil) was used for the wave velocity measurements. A 2 mm thick elastomer

Fetal- and uterine-specific antigens in human amniotic fluid.

PubMed

Sutcliffe, R G; Brock, D J; Nicholson, L V; Dunn, E

1978-09-01

Removal of the major maternal serum proteins from second trimester amniotic fluid by antibody affinity chromatography revealed various soluble tissue antigens, of which two were fetal-specific skin proteins and another, of alpha2-mobility, was specific to the uterus, and was therefore designated alpha-uterine protein (AUP). These proteins could not be detected in maternal serum by antibody-antigen crossed electrophoresis. The concentration of AUP in amniotic fluid reached a maximum between 10 and 20 weeks of gestation, suggesting that there is an influx of uterine protein into the amniotic fluid at this stage of pregnancy.

SPECTROPHOTOMETRIC DETERMINATION OF ULTRA-SMALL QUANTITIES OF NICKEL IN INDIUM (in Russian)

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

Peshkova, V.M.; Bochkova, V.M.; Astakhova, E.K.

1961-09-01

alpha -Benzil doxime permits the determination of nickel by measuring optical density in the region of maximum absortption (at 275 m mu ), after the reagent excess is removed by washing the extract with alkali. Conditions were found for the spectrophotometric determination of ultra-small quantities (down to 0.005 gamma ) of nickel with alpha -benzil dioxime in the soultion of its pure salt, in the presence of cobalt and copper. A method was developed for the determination of traces of nickel down to 5 x 10 /sup -7%/ in metallic indium. The reproducibility of method is +25%. (auth)

Blood-brain barrier transport of the alpha-keto acid analogs of amino acids.

PubMed

Steele, R D

1986-06-01

A number of alpha-keto acid analogs of amino acids have been found to penetrate the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Pyruvate, alpha-ketobutyrate, alpha-ketoisocaproate, and alpha-keto-gamma-methiolbutyrate all cross the BBB by a carrier-mediated process and by simple diffusion. Under normal physiological conditions, diffusion accounts for roughly 15% or less of total transport. Aromatic alpha-keto acids, phenylpyruvate, and p-hydroxyphenylpyruvate do not penetrate the BBB, nor do they inhibit the transport of other alpha-keto acids. Evidence based primarily on inhibition studies indicates that the carrier-mediated transport of alpha-keto acids occurs via the same carrier demonstrated previously for propionate, acetoacetate, and beta-hydroxybutyrate transport, commonly referred to as the monocarboxylate carrier. As a group, the alpha-keto acid analogs of the amino acids have the highest affinity for the carrier, followed by propionate and beta-hydroxybutyrate. Starvation for 4 days induces transport of alpha-keto acids, but transport is suppressed in rats fed commercial laboratory rations and subjected to portacaval shunts. The mitochondrial pyruvate translocator inhibitor alpha-cyanocinnamate has no effect on the BBB transport of alpha-keto acids.

New microbes as causative agents of Ibuprofen degradation capabilities in the hyporheic zone of a lowland stream

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Njeru, Cyrus; Posselt, Malte; Horn, Marcus A.

2017-04-01

Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory pain reliever and among pharmaceutical residues detected in aquatic environments. Widespread use of the drug and incomplete removal during waste water treatment results in its persistence in effluents and receiving waters. Potential total removal by microbial activity in the hyporheic zone (HZ) of rivers downstream of wastewater treatment plant discharge sites has been hypothesized. Ibuprofen degradation associated microbial communities in are essentially unknown. To address this hypothesis, two sets of oxic HZ sediment microcosms spiked with ibuprofen only (5, 40, 200 and 400 µM), or ibuprofen and 1 mM acetate were set up under laboratory conditions. Ibuprofen degradation in non-sterile relative to autoclaved sediments indicated removal by microbial degradation. Ibuprofen was completely consumed in the absence and presence of supplemental acetate after approximately 11 and 16 days, respectively. Refeeding of ibuprofen and acetate after the first depletion resulted in complete degradation within 24 hours in all treatments. Metabolites of ibuprofen included 1-, 2-, 3-hydroxy- and carboxyibuprofen. Quantitative real-time PCR revealed no pronounced differences in copy numbers of 16S rRNA gene or transcripts between non-spiked controls and treatments. Time resolved triplicate amplicon Illumina MiSeq sequencing targeting the 16S rRNA genes and transcripts revealed increased relative abundances of Proteobacteria, Acidobacteria, Actinobacteria and Firmicutes in treatments with compared to those without ibuprofen. Alpha-, Beta- and Deltaproteobacteria were most active as indicated by RNA based analyses. Enrichment and isolation yielded new Alphaproteobacteria utilizing ibuprofen as sole carbon and energy source. The collective results indicated that (i) HZ sediments sustain efficient biotic (micro-)pollutant removal and (ii) are a reservoir of hitherto unknown microbial diversity associated with such ecosystem services, including the genera Fodinicola, Hyphobacterium, and subgroup 6 Acidobacteria.

Psychometric properties of the Spanish version of the Resilience Scale.

PubMed

Heilemann, MarySue V; Lee, Kathryn; Kury, Felix Salvador

2003-01-01

The purpose of this study is to test the reliability and validity of a Spanish translation of the Resilience Scale (RS), which was originally created in English by Wagnild and Young (1993). A team of bilingual, bicultural translators participated in the translation process to enhance the linguistic accuracy and cultural appropriateness of the Spanish translation. As part of the convenience sample of 315 women of Mexican descent who participated in the larger study, data from 147 women who preferred to read and write in Spanish were used in this analysis. The English version of the RS consists of a 17-item "Personal Competence" subscale and an 8-item "Acceptance of Self and Life" subscale for a total of 25 items. However, two items had low item-total loadings and were removed to form a modified 23-item RS. The exploratory principal components factor analysis, varimax rotation, and subsequent goodness of fit indices were ambivalent on whether a one or two-factor solution was appropriate, but the chi-square difference test clearly demonstrated that the two-factor solution of the Spanish version was more useful in explaining variance than a one-factor solution. Internal consistency reliability was estimated with Cronbach's alpha (alpha = 0.93) which was acceptable for the 23-item RS as well as its subscales. Construct validity was demonstrated by a significant positive correlation between resilience and life satisfaction (r = 0.36; p < 0.001), and a significant negative correlation between resilience and depressive symptoms (r = -0.29; p < 0.01). This analysis ultimately supports the appropriateness of the modified 23-item Spanish translation of the RS and its subscales in a sample of urban, low-income women of Mexican descent in the U.S.

Sexual selection in a lekking bird: the relative opportunity for selection by female choice and male competition.

PubMed

DuVal, Emily H; Kempenaers, Bart

2008-09-07

Leks are classic models for studies of sexual selection due to extreme variance in male reproductive success, but the relative influence of intrasexual competition and female mate choice in creating this skew is debatable. In the lekking lance-tailed manakin (Chiroxiphia lanceolata), these selective episodes are temporally separated into intrasexual competition for alpha status and female mate choice among alpha males that rarely interact. Variance in reproductive success between status classes of adult males (alpha versus non-alpha) can therefore be attributed to male-male competition whereas that within status largely reflects female mate choice. This provides an excellent opportunity for quantifying the relative contribution of each of these mechanisms of sexual selection to the overall opportunity for sexual selection on males (I males). To calculate variance in actual reproductive success, we assigned genetic paternity to 92.3% of 447 chicks sampled in seven years. Reproduction by non-alphas was rare and apparently reflected status misclassifications or opportunistic copulations en route to attaining alpha status rather than alternative mating strategies. On average 31% (range 7-44%, n=6 years) of the total I males was due to variance in reproductive success between alphas and non-alphas. Similarly, in a cohort of same-aged males followed for six years, 44-58% of the total I males was attributed to variance between males of different status. Thus, both intrasexual competition for status and female mate choice among lekking alpha males contribute substantially to the potential for sexual selection in this species.

Sexual selection in a lekking bird: the relative opportunity for selection by female choice and male competition

PubMed Central

DuVal, Emily H; Kempenaers, Bart

2008-01-01

Leks are classic models for studies of sexual selection due to extreme variance in male reproductive success, but the relative influence of intrasexual competition and female mate choice in creating this skew is debatable. In the lekking lance-tailed manakin (Chiroxiphia lanceolata), these selective episodes are temporally separated into intrasexual competition for alpha status and female mate choice among alpha males that rarely interact. Variance in reproductive success between status classes of adult males (alpha versus non-alpha) can therefore be attributed to male–male competition whereas that within status largely reflects female mate choice. This provides an excellent opportunity for quantifying the relative contribution of each of these mechanisms of sexual selection to the overall opportunity for sexual selection on males (Imales). To calculate variance in actual reproductive success, we assigned genetic paternity to 92.3% of 447 chicks sampled in seven years. Reproduction by non-alphas was rare and apparently reflected status misclassifications or opportunistic copulations en route to attaining alpha status rather than alternative mating strategies. On average 31% (range 7–44%, n=6 years) of the total Imales was due to variance in reproductive success between alphas and non-alphas. Similarly, in a cohort of same-aged males followed for six years, 44–58% of the total Imales was attributed to variance between males of different status. Thus, both intrasexual competition for status and female mate choice among lekking alpha males contribute substantially to the potential for sexual selection in this species. PMID:18495620

Estrus synchronization and artificial insemination of hair sheep ewes in the tropics.

PubMed

Godfrey, R W; Collins, J R; Hensley, E L; Wheaton, J E

1999-04-01

Hair sheep ewes (St. Croix White and Barbados Blackbelly) were used to evaluate 3 methods of estrus synchronization for use with transcervical artificial insemination (TAI). To synchronize estrus, ewes (n = 18) were treated with PGF2alpha (15 mg, im) 10 d apart, with controlled internal drug release (CIDR) devices containing 300 mg progesterone for 12 d (n = 18), or with intravaginal sponges containing 500 mg progesterone for 12 d (n = 18). On the day of the second PGF2alpha injection or at CIDR or sponge removal, sterile rams were placed with the ewes. Jugular blood samples were collected from the ewes at 6-h intervals until the time of ovulation, and daily for 16 d after estrus (Day 0). Plasma was harvested and stored at -20 degrees C until LH, and progesterone concentrations were determined by RIA. There was no difference (P>0.10) in time to estrus among the CIDR-, PGF2alpha- or sponge-treated ewes. All of the ewes in the CIDR group and 94.4% of the sponge treated ewes exhibited estrus by 36 h after ram introduction, while only 72.2% of PGF2alpha-treated ewes showed signs of estrus by this time (P<0.06). The time from ram introduction to ovulation was not different (P>0.10) among the CIDR-, PGF2alpha- or sponge-treated ewes. The time to the preovulatory LH surge was similar (P>0.10) among CIDR, PGF2alpha and sponge treated ewes. Progesterone levels through Day 16 after the synchronized estrus were not different (P>0.10) among treatment groups. Hair sheep ewes (n = 23) were synchronized using PGF2alpha and bred by TAI using frozen-thawed semen 48 h after the second injection. The conception rate to TAI was 2/23 (8.7%) and produced 3 ram lambs. In a subsequent trial, 17 ewes were synchronized with CIDR devices and bred by TAI using frozen-thawed semen 48 h after CIDR removal, resulting in a conception rate of 52.9% (9/17). It is possible to synchronize estrus in hair sheep using either CIDRs, sponges or PGF2alpha. Even though there were no significant differences in the timing of ovulation or the LH surge among the treatment groups, a higher conception rate was achieved in ewes synchronized with CIDR devices during the second trial. This may reflect an increase in the skill level of the TAI technician.

Hypoxia in cartilage: HIF-1alpha is essential for chondrocyte growth arrest and survival.

PubMed

Schipani, E; Ryan, H E; Didrickson, S; Kobayashi, T; Knight, M; Johnson, R S

2001-11-01

Breakdown or absence of vascular oxygen delivery is a hallmark of many common human diseases, including cancer, myocardial infarction, and stroke. The chief mediator of hypoxic response in mammalian tissues is the transcription factor hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1), and its oxygen-sensitive component HIF-1alpha. A key question surrounding HIF-1alpha and the hypoxic response is the role of this transcription factor in cells removed from a functional vascular bed; in this regard there is evidence indicating that it can act as either a survival factor or induce growth arrest and apoptosis. To study more closely how HIF-1alpha functions in hypoxia in vivo, we used tissue-specific targeting to delete HIF-1alpha in an avascular tissue: the cartilaginous growth plate of developing bone. We show here the first evidence that the developmental growth plate in mammals is hypoxic, and that this hypoxia occurs in its interior rather than at its periphery. As a result of this developmental hypoxia, cells that lack HIF-1alpha in the interior of the growth plate die. This is coupled to decreased expression of the CDK inhibitor p57, and increased levels of BrdU incorporation in HIF-1alpha null growth plates, indicating defects in HIF-1alpha-regulated growth arrest occurs in these animals. Furthermore, we find that VEGF expression in the growth plate is regulated through both HIF-1alpha-dependent and -independent mechanisms. In particular, we provide evidence that VEGF expression is up-regulated in a HIF-1alpha-independent manner in chondrocytes surrounding areas of cell death, and this in turn induces ectopic angiogenesis. Altogether, our findings have important implications for the role of hypoxic response and HIF-1alpha in development, and in cell survival in tissues challenged by interruption of vascular flow; they also illustrate the complexities of HIF-1alpha response in vivo, and they provide new insights into mechanisms of growth plate development.

Removal of the long-lived {sup 222}Rn daughters from steel and germanium surfaces

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

Wojcik, Marcin; Zuzel, Grzegorz; Majorovits, Bela

Removal of the long-lived {sup 222}Rn daughters ({sup 210}Pb, {sup 210}Bi and {sup 210}Po) from stainless steel and germanium surfaces was investigated. As cleaning technique etching was applied to samples in a form of discs exposed earlier to a strong radon source. Reduction of the {sup 210}Pb activity was tested using a HPGe spectrometer, for {sup 210}Bi a beta spectrometer and for {sup 210}Po an alpha spectrometer was used. According to the conducted measurements all the isotopes were removed very efficiently from germanium. Results obtained for stainless steel were worse but still better than those achieved for copper.

THE LYMAN ALPHA REFERENCE SAMPLE: EXTENDED LYMAN ALPHA HALOS PRODUCED AT LOW DUST CONTENT

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

Hayes, Matthew; Oestlin, Goeran; Duval, Florent

2013-03-10

We report on new imaging observations of the Lyman alpha emission line (Ly{alpha}), performed with the Hubble Space Telescope, that comprise the backbone of the Lyman alpha Reference Sample. We present images of 14 starburst galaxies at redshifts 0.028 < z < 0.18 in continuum-subtracted Ly{alpha}, H{alpha}, and the far ultraviolet continuum. We show that Ly{alpha} is emitted on scales that systematically exceed those of the massive stellar population and recombination nebulae: as measured by the Petrosian 20% radius, R{sub P20}, Ly{alpha} radii are larger than those of H{alpha} by factors ranging from 1 to 3.6, with an average ofmore » 2.4. The average ratio of Ly{alpha}-to-FUV radii is 2.9. This suggests that much of the Ly{alpha} light is pushed to large radii by resonance scattering. Defining the Relative Petrosian Extension of Ly{alpha} compared to H{alpha}, {xi}{sub Ly{alpha}} = R {sup Ly{alpha}}{sub P20}/R {sup H{alpha}}{sub P20}, we find {xi}{sub Ly{alpha}} to be uncorrelated with total Ly{alpha} luminosity. However, {xi}{sub Ly{alpha}} is strongly correlated with quantities that scale with dust content, in the sense that a low dust abundance is a necessary requirement (although not the only one) in order to spread Ly{alpha} photons throughout the interstellar medium and drive a large extended Ly{alpha} halo.« less

Protection against dexamethasone-induced muscle atrophy is related to modulation by testosterone of FOXO1 and PGC-1{alpha}

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

Qin, Weiping, E-mail: weiping.qin@mssm.edu; Department of Medicine, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, NY; Pan, Jiangping

Research highlights: {yields} In rat gastrocnemius muscle, dexamethasone reduced PGC-1{alpha} cellular and nuclear levels without altering mRNA levels for this factor. {yields} Dexamethasone reduced phosphorylating of p38 MAPK, which stabilizes PGC-1{alpha} and promotes its nuclear entry. {yields} Co-administration of testosterone with dexamethasone increased cellular and nuclear levels of PGC-1{alpha} protein without changing its mRNA levels. {yields} Co-administration of testosterone restored p38 MAPK levels to those of controls. -- Abstract: Glucocorticoid-induced muscle atrophy results from muscle protein catabolism and reduced protein synthesis, associated with increased expression of two muscle-specific ubiquitin ligases (MAFbx and MuRF1), and of two inhibitors of protein synthesis,more » REDD1 and 4EBP1. MAFbx, MuRF1, REDD1 and 4EBP1 are up-regulated by the transcription factors FOXO1 and FOXO3A. The transcriptional co-activator PGC-1{alpha} has been shown to attenuate many forms of muscle atrophy and to repress FOXO3A-mediated transcription of atrophy-specific genes. Dexamethasone-induced muscle atrophy can be prevented by testosterone, which blocks up-regulation by dexamethasone of FOXO1. Here, an animal model of dexamethasone-induced muscle atrophy was used to further characterize effects of testosterone to abrogate adverse actions of dexamethasone on FOXO1 levels and nuclear localization, and to determine how these agents affect PGC-1{alpha}, and its upstream activators, p38 MAPK and AMPK. In rat gastrocnemius muscle, testosterone blunted the dexamethasone-mediated increase in levels of FOXO1 mRNA, and FOXO1 total and nuclear protein. Dexamethasone reduced total and nuclear PGC-1{alpha} protein levels in the gastrocnemius; co-administration of testosterone with dexamethasone increased total and nuclear PGC-1{alpha} levels above those present in untreated controls. Testosterone blocked dexamethasone-induced decreases in activity of p38 MAPK in the gastrocnemius muscle. Regulation of FOXO1, PGC-1{alpha} and p38 MAPK by testosterone may represent a novel mechanism by which this agent protects against dexamethasone-induced muscle atrophy.« less

Contributions of toluene and alpha-pinene to SOA formed in an irradiated toluene/alpha-pinene/NO(x)/ air mixture: comparison of results using 14C content and SOA organic tracer methods.

PubMed

Offenberg, John H; Lewis, Charles W; Lewandowski, Michael; Jaoui, Mohammed; Kleindienst, Tadeusz E; Edney, Edward O

2007-06-01

An organic tracer method, recently proposed for estimating individual contributions of toluene and alpha-pinene to secondary organic aerosol (SOA) formation, was evaluated by conducting a laboratory study where a binary hydrocarbon mixture, containing the anthropogenic aromatic hydrocarbon, toluene, and the biogenic monoterpene, alpha-pinene, was irradiated in air in the presence of NO(x) to form SOA. The contributions of toluene and alpha-pinene to the total SOA concentration, calculated using the organic tracer method, were compared with those obtained with a more direct 14C content method. In the study, SOA to SOC ratios of 2.07 +/- 0.08 and 1.41 +/- 0.04 were measured for toluene and (alpha-pinene SOA, respectively. The individual tracer-based SOA contributions of 156 microg m(-3) for toluene and 198 microg m(-)3 for alpha-pinene, which together accounted for 82% of the gravimetrically determined total SOA concentration, compared well with the 14C values of 182 and 230 microg m(-3) measured for the respective SOA precursors. While there are uncertainties associated with the organic tracer method, largely due to the chemical complexity of SOA forming chemical mechanisms, the results of this study suggest the organic tracer method may serve as a useful tool for determining whether a precursor hydrocarbon is a major SOA contributor.

Serum proteins in the leopard seal, Hydrurga leptonyx, in Prydz Bay, Eastern Antarctica and the coast of NSW, Australia.

PubMed

Gray, Rachael; Canfield, Paul; Rogers, Tracey

2005-09-01

Blood protein analysis including total serum protein and albumin by chemical methods, fibrinogen estimation and serum protein electrophoresis (SPE) was performed on the leopard seal, Hydrurga leptonyx. The most commonly observed SPE pattern was eight fractions designated albumin, alpha(1a), alpha(1b), alpha(2a), alpha(2b), beta(1), beta(2) and gamma-globulin. Significantly higher total serum protein and albumin concentrations, as determined by chemical methods, and significantly higher alpha(2)-globulin concentrations, determined by SPE, were seen in free-ranging male seals compared to females, whilst significantly higher beta-globulin concentrations were seen in female seals. Season of sampling influenced fibrinogen and beta(2)-globulin concentrations, whereas there were no significant differences in any protein concentrations with moult status. Qualitative comparison of SPE traces of leopard seals in Antarctica with "sick" individuals in NSW, Australia revealed obvious differences, as did quantitative comparison of protein concentrations where differences in alpha(1), alpha(2), beta(1), beta(2), and gamma-globulin concentrations were seen. These findings suggest that SPE is a useful tool for investigating serum proteins in the leopard seal, with applications for the investigation of "sick" individuals and the assessment of variation in homeostasis. This technique could also be used to identify the presence of environmental stressors, subclinical disease and physiological variation within specific seal populations.

Neutron radiation characteristics of plutonium dioxide fuel

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Taherzadeh, M.

1972-01-01

The major sources of neutrons from plutonium dioxide nuclear fuel are considered in detail. These sources include spontaneous fission of several of the Pu isotopes, (alpha, n) reactions with low Z impurities in the fuel, and (alpha, n) reactions with O-18. For spontaneous fission neutrons a value of (1.95 + or - 0.07) X 1,000 n/s/g PuO2 is obtained. The neutron yield from (alpha, n) reactions with oxygen is calculated by integrating the reaction rate equation over all alpha-particle energies and all center-of-mass angles. The results indicate a neutron emission rate of (1.14 + or - 0.26) X 10,000 n/s/g PuO2. The neutron yield from (alpha, n) reactions with low Z impurities in the fuel is presented in tabular form for one part part per million of each impurity. The total neutron yield due to the combined effects of all the impurities depends upon the fractional weight concentration of each impurity. The total neutron flux emitted from a particular fuel geometry is estimated by adding the neutron yield due to the induced fission to the other neutron sources.

New T Tauri stars in Chamaeleon I and Chamaeleon II

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hartigan, Patrick

1993-01-01

A new objective prism survey of the entire Chamaeleon I dark cloud and 2/3 of the Chamaeleon II cloud has uncovered 26 new H-alpha emission line objects that were missed by previous H-alpha plate surveys. The new H-alpha emission line objects have similar IR colors and spatial distributions to the known T Tauri stars in these dark clouds, and could represent the very low mass end of the stellar population in these clouds or an older, less active component to the usual classical T Tauri star population. The new H-alpha survey identified 70 percent of the total known Young Stellar Objects (YSOs) in Cha I, compared with 35 percent for IRAS, and 25 percent from the Einstein X-ray survey. Ten of the new objects are weak-lined stars, with H-alpha equivalent widths less than 10 A. Weak-lined T Tauri stars make up about half of the total population of young stars in the Chamaeleon I cloud, a proportion similar to the Taurus-Auriga cloud. Presented are coordinates, finding charts, and optical and IR photometry of the new emission-line objects.

Estimates for the Aerodynamic Coefficients of Ringsail and Disk-Gap-Band Parachutes Operating on Mars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cruz, Juan R.; Snyder, Miranda L.

2017-01-01

Models are presented for the aerodynamic coefficients of Supersonic Ringsail and Disk-Gap-Band parachutes as functions of total porosity, Lambda(sub t), Mach number, M, and total angle of attack, Alpha(sub t) (when necessary). The source aerodynamic coefficients data used for creating these models were obtained from a wind tunnel test of subscale parachutes. In this wind tunnel test, subscale parachutes of both parachute types were fabricated from two different fabrics with very different permeabilities. By varying the fabric permeability, while maintaining the parachute geometry constant, it was possible to vary Alpha(sub t). The fabric permeability test data necessary for the calculation of Alpha(sub t) were obtained from samples of the same fabrics used to fabricate the subscale parachutes. Although the models for the aerodynamic coefficients are simple polynomial functions of Alpha(sub t) and M, they are capable of producing good reproductions of the source data. The (Alpha(sub t), M) domains over which these models are applicable are clearly defined. The models are applicable to flight operations on Mars.

In vitro biodegradation of steranes

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

Chosson, P.; Connan, J.

1989-03-01

The purpose of this paper is to report reproducible results on the in vitro biodegradation of steranes in various crude oils. 73 pure strains including Pseudomonadacea (33) and Actinomycetaceae (40) have been screened in order to test their capability to degrade steranes contained in total alkanes isolated from various crudes. Biodegradation of steranes has been observed with 7 strains belonging to Nocardia and Arthrobacter genera. 5{alpha}(H), 14{alpha}(H), 17{alpha}(H) and 5{alpha}(H), 14{beta}(H), 17{beta}(H) Steranes with the 20R configuration were degraded under reproducible laboratory conditions. Biodegradation of the sterane mixtures isolated from crude oils followed W. Seiferts rules established on the basismore » of geological observations. 5{alpha}(H), 14{alpha}(H), 17{alpha}(H) C{sub 27}-Steranes with the 20R configuration are degraded first and ends with the 5{alpha}(H), 14{alpha}(H), 17{alpha}(H) C{sub 29}steranes. Then 5{alpha}9h0, 14{beta}(H), and 17{beta}(H) steranes are attacked starting with the 20R configuration. Limited alteration of Tm and Ts terpane has also been observed.« less

Effect of heterogeneity of carcinoembryonic antigen on liver cell membrane binding and its kinetics of removal from circulation.

PubMed

Byrn, R A; Medrek, P; Thomas, P; Jeanloz, R W; Zamcheck, N

1985-07-01

Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is a glycoprotein metabolized primarily by the liver. Subcellular fractions of rat liver were examined for CEA binding activity. Hepatocyte plasma membrane and microsome fractions bound CEA, and this binding shared the calcium requirement, neuraminidase sensitivity, and carbohydrate specificity of the hepatocyte asialoglycoprotein receptor. CEA had previously been shown to react with this galactose-specific receptor, in vivo, only following neuraminidase treatment. Galactose receptor binding of CEA was measured in three different purified CEA preparations. The fraction of CEA capable of binding to excess levels of galactose receptor on membranes varied (46.5%, 40.2%, and 4.7% for CEA-1, -2, and -3, respectively). These CEAs were shown to be 2.3%, 7.9%, and 0.7% as effective, respectively, as asialo-alpha 1-acid glycoprotein in inhibiting the binding of radiolabeled asialo-alpha 1-acid glycoprotein to liver cell membranes. Each of the three CEA preparations showed different clearance kinetics from the circulation of mice. Coinjection of asialo-alpha 1-acid glycoprotein with the CEAs revealed differing inhibition of the clearances. These results show that differences in the carbohydrate components of purified CEA preparations affect their rate of removal from circulation and thus possibly the relationship between CEA production and observed plasma levels in patients. The possible origin of these CEA differences is discussed with their clinical implications.

Glycoxidation and inflammatory markers in patients on treatment with PMMA-based protein-leaking dialyzers.

PubMed

Galli, Francesco; Benedetti, Serena; Floridi, Ardesio; Canestrari, Franco; Piroddi, Marta; Buoncristiani, Emanuela; Buoncristiani, Umberto

2005-02-01

High-molecular-weight solutes such as glycation and oxidation protein products are putative proinflammatory mediators found in the uremic blood. The elimination of these and other large solutes by protein-leaking dialyzers (PLD) might help to correct the inflammatory status of maintenance hemodialysis (HD) patients. Two matched groups of 13 standard 3 times/week HD patients were treated for 6 months with PMMA-based PLD and non-protein-leaking dialyzers (NPLD), respectively. At baseline, 1, 3, and 6 months, we measured the blood levels of the inflammatory cytokines IL-1beta, TNF-alpha, IL-6, the acute-phase protein C-reactive protein (CRP), the adhesion molecules ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and selectine-E, the chemotaxis factors MCP-1, and the glycation and oxidation protein end products pentosidine, protein carbonyls, and AOPP. In all the patients at baseline, pre-HD levels of glycation and oxidation protein markers, and inflammatory parameters were significantly higher than in healthy control subjects (P < 0.01 or greater). After 6 months, in the group on treatment with PLD, but not in that on NPLD, there was a significant decrease (P < 0.05 or greater) of pre-HD values of total pentosidine (mainly represented by pentosidine in serum albumin; -43%), protein carbonyls (-42%), AOPP (-38%), and the inflammatory cytokines IL-1beta (-49%), IL-6 (-39%), and TNF-alpha (-20%), while IL-10 and INF-gamma increased by 67% and 37%, respectively. Proinflammatory cytokines, and particularly IL-6, showed a positive correlation with the levels of circulating pentosidine. Protidemia was not significantly modified at the end of the study in both the groups. The results in this pilot study show that the removal of large solutes by PLD can improve some indices of chronic inflammation in HD patients. Further studies are required to determine the relevance of the individual solutes removed with PLD as proinflammatory mediators in the uremic environment.

Polonium problem in lead-bismuth flow target

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

Pankratov, D.V.; Yefimov, E.I.; Bugreev, M.I.

1996-06-01

Alpha-active polonium nuclides Po198 - Po210 are formed in a lead-bismuth target as results of reactions Bi{sup 209}(n,{gamma})Bi{sup 210} {yields} Po{sup 210}, Bi{sup 209}(p,xn)Po{sup 210} {yields} Po{sup 210 {minus} x} (x = 1-12), Pb{sup 208}({alpha},xn) {yields} Po{sup 210 {minus} x + 2} (x = 2-14). The most important nuclides are Po-210 (T{sub {1/2}}=138.4 day), Po-209 (T{sub {1/2}}=102 years) and Po-208 (T{sub {1/2}}=2.9 years). Polonium activity of the circuit for SINQ - conditions is about 15,000 Ci after 1-year operation. Polonium radiation hazard is connected with its output from the coolant and formation of aerosol and surface alpha-activity after the circuitmore » break-down for repair works or in accidents. One of the important issues of polonium removal system creation is containing and storing polonium removed. Its storage in solidified alkaline is not expedient because of secondary neutron formation as a result of ({alpha},n) - reaction on oxygen and sodium nucleus. The estimations carried out demonstrated that by polonium concentration {approx} 100 Ci/l neutron current on the container surface can reach {approx} 10{sup 4}n/(cm{sup 2}s). Concentration and storage of polonium in solidified lead-bisumth seems the most convenient. The calculations demonstrated that in a 100 l container 50,000 Ci of polonium can be stored (as much as 3 times more than 1-year polonium product in SINQ-conditions) under temperature in the container less than melting point of lead bismuth (the wall temperature is about 100{degrees}C).« less

Electromagnetic Dissociation Cross Sections using Weisskopf-Ewing Theory

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Adamczyk, Anne M.; Norbury, John W.

2011-01-01

It is important that accurate estimates of crew exposure to radiation are obtained for future long-term space missions. Presently, several space radiation transport codes exist to predict the radiation environment, all of which take as input particle interaction cross sections that describe the nuclear interactions between the particles and the shielding material. The space radiation transport code HZETRN uses the nuclear fragmentation model NUCFRG2 to calculate Electromagnetic Dissociation (EMD) cross sections. Currently, NUCFRG2 employs energy independent branching ratios to calculate these cross sections. Using Weisskopf-Ewing (WE) theory to calculate branching ratios, however, is more advantageous than the method currently employed in NUCFRG2. The WE theory can calculate not only neutron and proton emission, as in the energy independent branching ratio formalism used in NUCFRG2, but also deuteron, triton, helion, and alpha particle emission. These particles can contribute significantly to total exposure estimates. In this work, photonuclear cross sections are calculated using WE theory and the energy independent branching ratios used in NUCFRG2 and then compared to experimental data. It is found that the WE theory gives comparable, but mainly better agreement with data than the energy independent branching ratio. Furthermore, EMD cross sections for single neutron, proton, and alpha particle removal are calculated using WE theory and an energy independent branching ratio used in NUCFRG2 and compared to experimental data.

[Prevalence survey and molecular characterization of alpha and beta thalassemia in Liuzhou city of Guangxi].

PubMed

Cai, Ren; Li, Liyan; Liang, Xin; Liu, Zhongying; Su, Liu; Li, Wenjun; Zhu, Qiangui; Mo, Qiuhua; Pan, Lizhen; Ouyang, Hong; Huang, Lihua; Xu, Xiangmin

2002-08-01

To investigate the gene frequencies and mutation patterns of alpha thalassemia (alpha-thal) and beta thalassemia (beta-thal) in Liuzhou city of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. Cluster sampling was used. A total of 1 028 of umbilical blood samples were collected for a prevalence study of alpha-thal and a total of 1 312 healthy young people when receiving pre-marriage consultation were recruited for a beta-thal prevalence survey. Individuals live in city or town area of Liuzhou. A complete blood count as well as hemoglobin electrophoresis analysis were done in all of samples for phenotyping of alpha and beta-thals. Those with Hb Bart's for alpha-thal indicator and those with both microcytosis (MCV < 85 fl) and elevated levels of Hb A(2) (>/=4.0%) for beta-thal were further studied by DNA analysis. PCR-based methodologies were used to characterize the mutation contributions of alpha and beta-thals. All the subjects were tested for the state of carrying beta-thala alleles for evaluating the situation of the compound heterozygotes of alpha-thal with beta-thal. Of 1 028 random samples of umbilical blood screened, 112 of subjects were defined to be the gene carriers of alpha-thal. The alpha-thal carrier rate was as high as 11.19% including 3 compound heterozygotes. Five well-known types of alpha-thal alleles were detected with gene contributions of 37.4% (--(SEA) deletion), 31.3% (-alpha(3.7) deletion), 17.4% (-alpha(4.2) deletion), 12.1% (alpha(CS)alpha mutation), and 0.9% (alpha(QS)alpha mutation), successively. Of the 1 312 adult specimens studied, 89 with beta-thal including 14 of the compound higher Hb F subjects were detected. All of the 89 phenotypic beta-thal carriers had the mutations in the beta-globin gene, making the overall prevalence 6.78%. The commonly seen three mutations, beta CD41 - 42 (-CTTT) frameshift, beta CD17 (T-A) nonsense mutation and beta-28 (A-G) promoter variation were accounted for 90% of the beta-thal alleles in Liuzhou. Of these beta-thal subjects, 16 (accounting for 18%) were found to be the compound heterozygosity for a beta-thal and an alpha-thal with 9 different types of gene defects with a detection rate 1.22%. Data from ecidation of alpha and beta-thal gene frequencies and mutation spectrum in Liuzhou city was useful for genetic counselling and prenatal diagnosis of this disease.

Decay studies of a long lived high spin isomer of /sup 210/Bi

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

Tuggle, D.G.

1976-08-01

A source of approximately 30 ..mu..g of pure (> 90%) /sup 210m/Bi (J..pi.. = 9-) was prepared by irradiating /sup 209/Bi in a nuclear reactor. After chemical separations to remove /sup 210/Po from the irradiated bismuth sample were completed, the /sup 210/Bi was electromagnetically separated from the /sup 209/Bi by a series of two isotope separations to create the source mentioned above. This source was then used to conduct alpha, conversion electron, gamma, gamma-gamma coincidence, and alpha-gamma coincidence spectroscopic studies of the decay of /sup 210m/Bi. The partial half life for the alpha decay of /sup 210m/Bi was measured asmore » 3.0 x 10/sup 6/ yr. A lower limit of 10/sup 13/ years was set for the partial half life for the decay of /sup 210m/Bi to /sup 210/Po. Alpha decay of /sup 210m/Bi to 8 excited states of /sup 206/Tl was observed. A lower limit of 10/sup -4/% was set for the branching ratio of the parity forbidden alpha decay of /sup 210/Bi to the /sup 206/Ti ground state. Theoretical decay rates for the alpha decays of /sup 210m/Bi, /sup 210/Bi, /sup 211/Po, and /sup 211m/Po were calculated using the method developed by Hans Mang. A comparison of the calculated and experimentally measured alpha decay rates of /sup 210m/Bi showed good agreement for the relative alpha decay rates.« less

Formation and self-organization kinetics of alpha-CD/PEO-based pseudo-polyrotaxanes in water. A specific behavior at 30 degrees C.

PubMed

Travelet, Christophe; Schlatter, Guy; Hébraud, Pascal; Brochon, Cyril; Lapp, Alain; Hadziioannou, Georges

2009-08-04

alpha-Cyclodextrins (alpha-CDs) have the ability to form inclusion complexes with poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) polymer chains. These pseudo-polyrotaxanes (PPRs) can be obtained by quenching an alpha-CD/PEO mixture in water from 70 degrees C down to a lower temperature (typically in the range from 5 to 30 degrees C) thanks to favorable interactions between alpha-CD cavities and PEO chains. Moreover, starting from a liquid alpha-CD/PEO mixture at a total mass fraction of 15% w/w at 70 degrees C, the formation of PPRs with time at a lower temperature induces a white physical gel with time, and phase separation is observed. We established that PPR molecules are exclusively found in the precipitated phase although unthreaded alpha-CD molecules and unthreaded PEO chains are in the liquid phase. At 30 degrees C, the physical gel formation is much slower than at 5 degrees C. At 30 degrees C, we established that, in a first step, alpha-CDs thread onto PEO chains, forming PPR molecules which are not in good solvent conditions in water. At a higher length scale, rapid aggregation of the PPR molecules occurs, and threaded alpha-CD-based nanocylinders form (cylinder length L = 5.7 nm and cylinder radius R = 4.7 nm). At a higher length scale, alpha-CD-based nanocylinders associate in a Gaussian way, engendering the formation of precipitated domains which are responsible for the high turbidity of the studied system. At the end of this first step (i.e., after 20 min), the system still remains liquid and the PPRs are totally formed. Then, in a second step (i.e., after 150 min), the system undergoes its reorganization characterized by a compacity increase of the precipitated domains and forms a physical gel. We found that PPRs are totally formed after 20 min at 30 degrees C and that the system stays in a nongel state up to 150 min. This opens new perspectives regarding the PPR chemical modification: between these two characteristic times, we can easily envisage an efficient chemical modification of the PPR molecules in water, as for instance an end-capping reaction leading to the synthesis of polyrotaxanes.

Osage orange (Maclura pomifera L) seed oil poly(alpha-hydroxydibutylamine) triglycerides: Synthesis and characterization

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Milled Osage orange seeds (Maclura pomifera (Raf.) Schneid) were Soxhlet extracted with hexane, and portions of the extract were treated with activated carbon before solvent removal. The crude oil was winterized and degummed by centrifugation at low temperature. Decantation of the centrifuge gave an...

Soluble TNF-alpha receptor 1 and IL-6 plasma levels in humans subjected to the sleep deprivation model of spaceflight

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shearer, W. T.; Reuben, J. M.; Mullington, J. M.; Price, N. J.; Lee, B. N.; Smith, E. O.; Szuba, M. P.; Van Dongen, H. P.; Dinges, D. F.

2001-01-01

BACKGROUND: The extent to which sleep loss may predispose astronauts to a state of altered immunity during extended space travel prompts evaluation with ground-based models. OBJECTIVE: We sought to measure plasma levels of selected cytokines and their receptors, including the putative sleep-regulation proteins soluble TNF-alpha receptor (sTNF-alpha R) I and IL-6, in human subjects undergoing 2 types of sleep deprivation during environmental confinement with performance demands. METHODS: Healthy adult men (n = 42) were randomized to schedules that varied in severity of sleep loss: 4 days (88 hours) of partial sleep deprivation (PSD) involving two 2-hour naps per day or 4 days of total sleep deprivation (TSD). Plasma samples were obtained every 6 hours across 5 days and analyzed by using enzyme-linked immunoassays for sTNF-alpha RI, sTNF-alpha RII, IL-6, soluble IL-2 receptor, IL-10, and TNF-alpha. RESULTS: Interactions between the effects of time and sleep deprivation level were detected for sTNF-alpha RI and IL-6 but not for sTNF-alpha RII, soluble IL-2 receptor, IL-10, and TNF-alpha. Relative to the PSD condition, subjects in the TSD condition had elevated plasma levels of sTNF-alpha RI on day 2 (P =.04), day 3 (P =.01), and across days 2 to 4 of sleep loss (P =.01) and elevated levels of IL-6 on day 4 (P =.04). CONCLUSIONS: Total sleep loss produced significant increases in plasma levels of sTNF-alpha RI and IL-6, messengers that connect the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems. These changes appeared to reflect elevations of the homeostatic drive for sleep because they occurred in TSD but not PSD, suggesting that naps may serve as the basis for a countermeasures approach to prolonged spaceflight.

Hsp105 family proteins suppress staurosporine-induced apoptosis by inhibiting the translocation of Bax to mitochondria in HeLa cells

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

Yamagishi, Nobuyuki; Ishihara, Keiichi; Saito, Youhei

2006-10-15

Hsp105 (Hsp105{alpha} and Hsp105{beta}), major heat shock proteins in mammalian cells, belong to a subgroup of the HSP70 family, HSP105/110. Previously, we have shown that Hsp105{alpha} has completely different effects on stress-induced apoptosis depending on cell type. However, the molecular mechanisms by which Hsp105{alpha} regulates stress-induced apoptosis are not fully understood. Here, we established HeLa cells that overexpress either Hsp105{alpha} or Hsp105{beta} by removing doxycycline and examined how Hsp105 modifies staurosporine (STS)-induced apoptosis in HeLa cells. Apoptotic features such as the externalization of phosphatidylserine on the plasma membrane and nuclear morphological changes were induced by the treatment with STS, andmore » the STS-induced apoptosis was suppressed by overexpression of Hsp105{alpha} or Hsp105{beta}. In addition, we found that overexpression of Hsp105{alpha} or Hsp105{beta} suppressed the activation of caspase-3 and caspase-9 by preventing the release of cytochrome c from mitochondria. Furthermore, the translocation of Bax to mitochondria, which results in the release of cytochrome c from the mitochondria, was also suppressed by the overexpression of Hsp105{alpha} or Hsp105{beta}. Thus, it is suggested that Hsp105 suppresses the stress-induced apoptosis at its initial step, the translocation of Bax to mitochondria in HeLa cells.« less

Evidence suggesting a negative regulatory role for macrophages in murine erythropoiesis in vivo.

PubMed

Wang, C Q; Udupa, K B; Xiao, H; Lipschitz, D A

1994-04-01

Increasing the rate of erythropoiesis in C57BL/6 mice, either by hypoxia or by the injection of recombinant erythropoietin (Epo), resulted in significant reductions in marrow macrophage number, as assessed by flow cytometry employing the monoclonal antibody against the macrophage antigen Mac-1 and by histologic determination of reductions in the number of marrow esterase-positive cells. This decline was paralleled by decreases in marrow colony-forming unit-macrophage (CFU-M) and colony-forming unit-granulocyte/macrophage (CFU-GM) number. The intramedullary concentration of the cytokines interleukin-1 alpha (IL-1 alpha) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), which are produced by macrophages, was also reduced. Cessation of erythropoiesis was associated with increases in macrophage number, CFU-M and CFU-GM colony number, and IL-1 alpha concentrations. Increased erythropoiesis resulted in reductions in number of burst-forming unit-erythroid (BFU-E) colonies, which were less sensitive to suppression by macrophages as evidence by less increase in colony number when macrophages were removed from the marrow before in vitro BFU-E culture. BFU-E colony number was suppressed less when IL-1 alpha and TNF-alpha were added to cultures obtained from animals with stimulated erythropoiesis. Compared to controls, BFU-E number and suppression by macrophages increased significantly when erythropoiesis was reduced. These observations provide compelling evidence for a regulatory role for macrophages in normal erythropoiesis in vivo, presumably acting as a negative balance to the stimulatory effects of Epo.

Alpha particle spectroscopy in radon/thoron progeny measurements.

PubMed

Thiessen, N P

1994-12-01

A comparison is made between the relative variances and counting time requirements for obtaining radon and thoron progeny air concentrations from total alpha count data and from spectroscopically resolved alpha count data collected from air sampling filters. Spectral resolution is shown to have significant advantages, especially in mixed radon/thoron atmospheres. Systematic biases resulting from imperfect energy peak resolution are shown to be subject to accurate mathematical compensation.

CAUGHT IN THE ACT: STRONG, ACTIVE RAM PRESSURE STRIPPING IN VIRGO CLUSTER SPIRAL NGC 4330

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

Abramson, Anne; Kenney, Jeffrey D. P.; Crowl, Hugh H.

We present a multi-wavelength study of NGC 4330, a highly inclined spiral galaxy in the Virgo Cluster which is a clear example of strong, ongoing intracluster medium-interstellar medium (ICM-ISM) ram pressure stripping. The H I has been removed from well within the undisturbed old stellar disk, to 50%-65% of R{sub 25}. Multi-wavelength data (WIYN BVR-H{alpha}, Very Large Array 21 cm H I and radio continuum, and Galaxy Evolution Explorer NUV and FUV) reveal several one-sided extraplanar features likely caused by ram pressure at an intermediate disk-wind angle. At the leading edge of the interaction, the H{alpha} and dust extinction curvemore » sharply out of the disk in a remarkable and distinctive 'upturn' feature that may be generally useful as a diagnostic indicator of active ram pressure. On the trailing side, the ISM is stretched out in a long tail which contains 10% of the galaxy's total H I emission, 6%-9% of its NUV-FUV emission, but only 2% of the H{alpha}. The centroid of the H I tail is downwind of the UV/H{alpha} tail, suggesting that the ICM wind has shifted most of the ISM downwind over the course of the past 10-300 Myr. Along the major axis, the disk is highly asymmetric in the UV, but more symmetric in H{alpha} and H I, also implying recent changes in the distributions of gas and star formation. The UV-optical colors indicate very different star formation histories for the leading and trailing sides of the galaxy. On the leading side, a strong gradient in the UV-optical colors of the gas-stripped disk suggests that it has taken 200-400 Myr to strip the gas from a radius of >8 to 5 kpc, but on the trailing side there is no age gradient. All our data suggest a scenario in which NGC 4330 is falling into the cluster center for the first time and has experienced a significant increase in ram pressure over the last 200-400 Myr. Many of the UV-bright stars that form outside the thin disk due to ram pressure will ultimately produce stellar thick disk and halo components with characteristic morphologies and age distributions distinct from those produced by gravitational interactions.« less

Cortisol metabolic predictors of response to psychotherapy for symptoms of PTSD in survivors of the World Trade Center attacks on September 11, 2001.

PubMed

Yehuda, Rachel; Bierer, Linda M; Sarapas, Casey; Makotkine, Iouri; Andrew, Ruth; Seckl, Jonathan R

2009-10-01

A proportion of subjects with symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are unresponsive to specialized psychotherapy, but a biological basis for this has not been described. To observe whether differences in cortisol or its metabolites predict or correlate with response to therapy for PTSD symptoms, cortisol and its metabolites were measured from urine samples at pre-treatment, at the conclusion of psychotherapy, and at 3-month follow-up. 28 survivors of the World Trade Center attacks on September 11, 2001 seeking psychological treatment for PTSD symptoms received four sessions of either exposure therapy or supportive counseling, followed by up to 10 sessions of prolonged exposure in a specialized PTSD treatment program at a private hospital serving the New York City metropolitan area. 24-h mean integrated cortisol excretion was assessed by radioimmunoassay (RIA); urinary free cortisol and metabolites cortisone, 5alpha-tetrahydrocortisol (5alpha-THF), 5beta-tetrahydrocortisol, and tetrahydrocortisone were assessed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS); and indices of enzyme activity for 5alpha- and 5beta-reductase and for the 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases were derived from the metabolite and glucocorticoid measures. 5alpha-Reductase activity was significantly lower at pre-treatment among non-responders, whereas there were no significant pre-treatment differences between responders and non-responders in any other hormone or metabolite level. In repeated measures analyses across the three time points, 5alpha-reductase activity, as well as 5alpha-THF and total glucocorticoids, significantly differed between responders and non-responders. For urinary cortisol measured by RIA, there was a significant groupxtime interaction indicating that, although not different at pre-treatment, urinary cortisol levels declined over time in the non-responder group, such that by follow-up, lowered cortisol significantly distinguished non-responders from responders. Indices of 5alpha-reductase activity, including 5alpha-THF and total glucocorticoids, were significantly negatively correlated with avoidance symptom severity at pre-treatment. At follow-up, indices of 5alpha-reductase activity were significantly negatively correlated with severity of all three PTSD symptom clusters and with total PTSD severity scores. Lower 5alpha-reductase activity is associated with avoidance severity and predicts non-responsiveness to psychological treatment for PTSD symptomatology. Relatively diminished 5alpha-reductase activity may mark a state of primary vulnerability, perhaps via attenuated peripheral catabolism of cortisol resulting in the suppression of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis responsiveness. Lower cortisol levels appear later in the progression to chronic, treatment-resistant PTSD.

Enteric defensins are essential regulators of intestinal microbial ecology.

PubMed

Salzman, Nita H; Hung, Kuiechun; Haribhai, Dipica; Chu, Hiutung; Karlsson-Sjöberg, Jenny; Amir, Elad; Teggatz, Paul; Barman, Melissa; Hayward, Michael; Eastwood, Daniel; Stoel, Maaike; Zhou, Yanjiao; Sodergren, Erica; Weinstock, George M; Bevins, Charles L; Williams, Calvin B; Bos, Nicolaas A

2010-01-01

Antimicrobial peptides are important effectors of innate immunity throughout the plant and animal kingdoms. In the mammalian small intestine, Paneth cell alpha-defensins are antimicrobial peptides that contribute to host defense against enteric pathogens. To determine if alpha-defensins also govern intestinal microbial ecology, we analyzed the intestinal microbiota of mice expressing a human alpha-defensin gene (DEFA5) and in mice lacking an enzyme required for the processing of mouse alpha-defensins. In these complementary models, we detected significant alpha-defensin-dependent changes in microbiota composition, but not in total bacterial numbers. Furthermore, DEFA5-expressing mice had striking losses of segmented filamentous bacteria and fewer interleukin 17 (IL-17)-producing lamina propria T cells. Our data ascribe a new homeostatic role to alpha-defensins in regulating the makeup of the commensal microbiota.

Nitrogen and phosphorus removed from a subsurface flow multi-stage filtration system purifying agricultural runoff.

PubMed

Zhao, Yaqi; Huang, Lei; Chen, Yucheng

2018-07-01

Agricultural nonpoint source pollution has been increasingly serious in China since the 1990s. The main causes were excessive inputs of nitrogen fertilizer and pesticides. A multi-stage filtration system was built to test the purification efficiencies and removal characteristics of nitrogen and phosphorus when treating agricultural runoff. Simulated runoff pollution was prepared by using river water as source water based on the monitoring of local agricultural runoff. Experimental study had been performed from September to November 2013, adopting 12 h for flooding and 12 h for drying. The results showed that the system was made adaptive to variation of inflow quality and quantity, and had good removal for dissolved total nitrogen, total nitrogen, dissolved total phosphorus (DTP), and total phosphorus, and the average removal rate was 27%, 36%, 32%, and 48%, respectively. Except nitrate ([Formula: see text]), other forms of nitrogen and phosphorus all decreased with the increase of stages. Nitrogen was removed mainly in particle form the first stage, and mostly removed in dissolved form the second and third stage. Phosphorus was removed mainly in particulate during the first two stages, but the removal of particulate phosphorus and DTP were almost the same in the last stage. An approximate logarithmic relationship between removal loading and influent loading to nitrogen and phosphorus was noted in the experimental system, and the correlation coefficient was 0.78-0.94. [Formula: see text]: ammonium; [Formula: see text]: nitrite; [Formula: see text]: nitrate; DTN: dissolved total nitrogen; TN: total nitrogen; DTP: dissolved total phosphorus; TP: total phosphorus; PN: particulate nitrogen; PP: particulate phosphorus.

Lithium metal reduction of plutonium oxide to produce plutonium metal

DOEpatents

Coops, Melvin S.

1992-01-01

A method is described for the chemical reduction of plutonium oxides to plutonium metal by the use of pure lithium metal. Lithium metal is used to reduce plutonium oxide to alpha plutonium metal (alpha-Pu). The lithium oxide by-product is reclaimed by sublimation and converted to the chloride salt, and after electrolysis, is removed as lithium metal. Zinc may be used as a solvent metal to improve thermodynamics of the reduction reaction at lower temperatures. Lithium metal reduction enables plutonium oxide reduction without the production of huge quantities of CaO--CaCl.sub.2 residues normally produced in conventional direct oxide reduction processes.

Developing a scale for quality of life in pediatric oncology patients aged 7-12--children and parent forms.

PubMed

Kudubes, Asli Akdeniz; Bektas, Murat

2015-01-01

This study was planned in an attempt to develop a scale for the quality of life in pediatric oncology patients aged 7-12, with child and parents forms. In collecting the study data, we used the Child and Parent Information Form, Visual Quality of Life Scale, Scale for Quality of Life Pediatric Oncology Patients Aged 7-12 and the Scale for the Quality of Life in Pediatric Oncology Patients Aged 7-12 for Parents. We also used Pearson correlation analysis, the Cronbach alpha coefficient, factor analysis and ROC analysis for the study data. In this study, the total Cronbach alpha value of the parent form was 0.96, the total factor load being 0.54-0.90 and the total variance explained was 82.5%. The cutoff point of the parent form was 93 points. The total Cronbach alpha value for the child form was 0.96, with a total factor load of 0.55-0.91 and the total variance being explained was 78.3%. The cutoff point of the child form was 65 points. This study suggests that the Scale for Quality of Life in Pediatric Oncology Patients Aged 7-12 Child and Parents Forms are valid and reliable instruments in assessing the quality of life of children.

Screening materials with the XIA UltraLo alpha particle counter at Southern Methodist University

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

Nakib, M. Z.; Cooley, J.; Kara, B.

2013-08-08

Southern Methodist University houses one of five existing commercially available UltraLo 1800 production model alpha counters made by XIA LLC. The instrument has an electron drift chamber with a 707 cm{sup 2} or 1800 cm{sup 2} counting region which is determined by selecting the inner electrode size. The SMU team operating this device is part of the SuperCDMS screening working group, and uses the alpha counter to study the background rates from the decay of radon in materials used to construct the SuperCDMS experiment. We have studied four acrylic samples obtained from the MiniCLEAN direct dark matter search with themore » XIA instrument demonstrating its utility in low background experiments by investigating the plate-out of {sup 210}Pb and comparing the effectiveness of cleaning procedures in removing {sup 222}Rn progenies from the samples.« less

Clearing Extracellular Alpha-Synuclein from Cerebrospinal Fluid: A New Therapeutic Strategy in Parkinson’s Disease

PubMed Central

Padilla-Zambrano, Huber S.; Tomás-Zapico, Cristina; García, Benjamin Fernández

2018-01-01

This concept article aims to show the rationale of targeting extracellular α-Synuclein (α-Syn) from cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) as a new strategy to remove this protein from the brain in Parkinson’s disease (PD). Misfolding and intracellular aggregation of α-synuclein into Lewy bodies are thought to be crucial in the pathogenesis of PD. Recent research has shown that small amounts of monomeric and oligomeric α-synuclein are released from neuronal cells by exocytosis and that this extracellular alpha-synuclein contributes to neurodegeneration, progressive spreading of alpha-synuclein pathology, and neuroinflammation. In PD, extracellular oligomeric-α-synuclein moves in constant equilibrium between the interstitial fluid (ISF) and the CSF. Thus, we expect that continuous depletion of oligomeric-α-synuclein in the CSF will produce a steady clearance of the protein in the ISF, preventing transmission and deposition in the brain. PMID:29570693

Clearing Extracellular Alpha-Synuclein from Cerebrospinal Fluid: A New Therapeutic Strategy in Parkinson's Disease.

PubMed

Menéndez-González, Manuel; Padilla-Zambrano, Huber S; Tomás-Zapico, Cristina; García, Benjamin Fernández

2018-03-23

This concept article aims to show the rationale of targeting extracellular α-Synuclein (α-Syn) from cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) as a new strategy to remove this protein from the brain in Parkinson's disease (PD). Misfolding and intracellular aggregation of α-synuclein into Lewy bodies are thought to be crucial in the pathogenesis of PD. Recent research has shown that small amounts of monomeric and oligomeric α-synuclein are released from neuronal cells by exocytosis and that this extracellular alpha-synuclein contributes to neurodegeneration, progressive spreading of alpha-synuclein pathology, and neuroinflammation. In PD, extracellular oligomeric-α-synuclein moves in constant equilibrium between the interstitial fluid (ISF) and the CSF. Thus, we expect that continuous depletion of oligomeric-α-synuclein in the CSF will produce a steady clearance of the protein in the ISF, preventing transmission and deposition in the brain.

Edible carbohydrates from formaldehyde in a spacecraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Weiss, A. H.

1975-01-01

The autocatalytic nature of the base catalyzed condensation of formaldehyde to formose sugars is eliminated by using as a cocatalyst, an aldose, or ketose having an alpha-hydrogen. This is more strongly complexed by base than is formaldehyde and the cocatalyst and sugar products accumulate as catalyst complexes instead of formaldehyde. Because of the presence of alpha-hydrogen atoms in cocatalysts and formose sugars, their removal by cross Cannizzaro reaction of complexed sugars does not occur, so the formose reaction behaves autocatalytically due to this accumulation. It is believed that a given catalytic formose complex is not a discrete complexed sugar, but rather, a scrambled dynamic mixture of sugars having weakened structures. The sugar complexes derive from a common salt-like formaldehyde complex, which, because of the absence of alpha-hydrogen, has a greater tendency to undergo Cannizzaro reaction, rather than formose condensation. Because of this, the Cannizzaro reaction can proceed without measurable formose condensation. The reverse is not possible.

KPNO 0.9m H(alpha) Imaging Survey of ``Transforming Galaxies" in Local Galaxy Groups

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Haines, Christopher; O'Sullivan, Ewan; Raychaudhury, Somak; Gargiulo, Adriana; Campusano, Luis

2012-02-01

We propose to use the KPNO 0.9-m telescope to obtain panoramic H(alpha) imaging of ~200 galaxies in two nearby (32, 35 Mpc) galaxy groups NGC 4261 and NGC 5353 from the CLoGS local group survey. In rich clusters ram-pressure stripping has been shown to be very effective at removing the gas contents and quenching star formation in infalling spiral galaxies. It is much less clear how galaxies are affected by the much lower ram pressures found in galaxy groups, or if other environmental processes begin to dominate. Given that >50% of galaxies in the local volume reside in groups, it is vital we gain new insights into which mechanisms drive the SFR-density relation in groups. The proposed H(alpha) imaging will allow us to resolve where star-formation is occuring in each galaxy. This can effectively discriminate between ram-pressure stripping characterized by truncated H(alpha) disks, the much gentler starvation mechanism which produces anemic spirals, and nuclear star-bursts triggered by low-velocity encounters which should be most frequent in groups.

KPNO 0.9m H(alpha) Imaging Survey of ``Transforming Galaxies'' in Local Galaxy Groups

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Haines, Christopher; O'Sullivan, Ewan; Raychaudhury, Somak; Egami, Eiichi; Campusano, Luis

2012-08-01

We propose to use the KPNO 0.9-m telescope to obtain panoramic H(alpha) imaging of ~135 galaxies in ten nearby galaxy groups (60- 80 Mpc) from the Complete Local-Volume Groups Sample (CLoGS). In rich clusters ram-pressure stripping has been shown to be very effective at removing the gas contents and quenching star formation in infalling spiral galaxies. It is much less clear how galaxies are affected by the much lower ram pressures found in galaxy groups, or if other environmental processes begin to dominate. Given that >50% of galaxies in the local volume reside in groups, it is vital that we gain new insights into which mechanisms drive the SFR-density relation in groups. The proposed H(alpha) imaging will allow us to resolve where star-formation is occurring in each galaxy. This can effectively discriminate between ram-pressure stripping characterized by truncated H(alpha) disks, the much gentler starvation mechanism which produces anemic spirals, and nuclear starbursts triggered by low-velocity encounters and mergers which should be most frequent in groups.

Seventeen Alpha-Hydroxylase Deficiency Associated with Absent Gonads and Myelolipoma: A Case Report and Review of Literature.

PubMed

Soveid, Mahmood; Rais-Jalali, Ghanbar Ali

2016-11-01

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia comprises a group of disorders resulting from defects in enzymes required for the synthesis of cortisol. The clinical presentation depends on the specific enzyme defect. We report a rare case of congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 17 alpha-hydroxylase deficiency. A 26-year-old female patient referred with hypertension and hypokalemia. She also had primary amenorrhea and lack of sexual development. The karyotype was 46, XY. Hormonal evaluation showed low serum levels of all steroid hormones, requiring alpha-hydroxylation, which included cortisol, 17 alpha-hydroxy progesterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, estradiol, and testosterone. The levels of adrenocorticotropic, follicle-stimulating, and luteinizing hormones were high. Radiological and surgical investigations failed to show a gonad. She also had a large myelolipoma. Treatment was commenced with low-dose dexamethasone and conjugated estrogen. Her hypertension and hypokalemia were resolved. The myelolipoma was removed by laparoscopy due to pain and sensation of heaviness. Our review of literature revealed that a combination of this disorder with either agonadism or myelolipoma is very rare and that only 2 previous cases have been reported for each entity.

Enzyme-polymer composites with high biocatalytic activity and stability

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

Kim, Jungbae; Kosto, Timothy J.; Manimala, Joseph C.

2004-08-22

We have applied vacuum-spraying and electrospinning to incorporate an enzyme into a polymer matrix, creating a novel and highly active biocatalytic composite. As a unique technical approach, enzymes were co-dissolved in toluene with polymers, and the solvent was then rapidly removed by injecting the mixture into a vacuum chamber or by electrospinning. Subsequent crosslinking of the enzyme with glutaraldehyde resulted in stable entrapped enzyme within the polymeric matrices. For example, an amorphous composite of alpha-chymotrypsin and polyethylene showed no significant loss of enzymatic activity in aqueous buffer for one month. Nanofibers of alpha-chymotrypsin and polystyrene also showed no decrease inmore » activity for more than two weeks. The normalized activity of amorphous composite in organic solvents was 3-13 times higher than that of native alpha-chymotrypsin. The activity of nanofibers was 5-7 times higher than that of amorphous composite in aqueous buffer solution. The composites of alpha-chymotrypsin and polymers demonstrate the feasibility of obtaining a wide variety of active and stable biocatalytic materials with many combinations of enzymes and polymers.« less

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

Wang, Chun-Chieh; Department of Medical Imaging and Radiological Science, Chang Gung University School of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Lai, Chyong-Huey

Purpose: To study the prognostic value of the human papillomavirus (HPV) genotypes in cervical cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy. Patients and Methods: A total of 1,010 patients with cervical cancer after radiotherapy between 1993 and 2000 were eligible for this study. The HPV genotypes were determined by a genechip, which detects 38 types of HPV. The patient characteristics and treatment outcomes were analyzed using the Cox regression hazard model and classification and regression tree decision tree method. Results: A total of 25 genotypes of HPV were detected in 992 specimens (98.2%). The leading 8 types were HPV16, 58, 18, 33, 52,more » 39, 31, and 45. These types belong to two high-risk HPV species: alpha-7 (HPV18, 39, 45) and alpha-9 (HPV16, 31, 33, 52, 58). Three HPV-based risk groups, which were independent of established prognostic factors, such as International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage, age, pathologic features, squamous cell carcinoma antigen, and lymph node metastasis, were associated with the survival outcomes. The high-risk group consisted of the patients without HPV infection or the ones infected with the alpha-7 species only. Patients co-infected with the alpha-7 and alpha-9 species belonged to the medium-risk group, and the others were included in the low-risk group. Conclusion: The results of the present study have confirmed the prognostic value of HPV genotypes in cervical cancer treated with radiotherapy. The different effect of the alpha-7 and alpha-9 species on the radiation response deserves additional exploration.« less

Purification of alpha-glucosidae and invertase from bakers' yeast on modified polymeric supports.

PubMed

Lothe, R R; Purohit, S S; Shaikh, S S; Malshe, V C; Pandit, A B

1999-01-01

In the present work Amberlite XAD-16 and Indion NPA-1, Polystyrene Divinylbenzene macroreticular spherical resins, have been evaluated quantitatively as supports for the adsorption and isolation of the yeast proteins and the enzymes, invertase and alpha-glucosidase. Modification of these supports has been carried out by surface grafting using acrylate polymers to reduce the hydrophobicity and nonspecific adsorption of proteins. Good grafting efficiency, in excess of 90%, has been obtained using ultrasonic irradiation for the surface activation of polystyrene resins. XAD-16 has higher adsorption capacities for the total yeast proteins as well as for both the enzymes, alpha-glucosidase and invertase, than NPA-1 in its respective native and grafted form. Adsorption capacities of XAD-16 and NPA-1 in their respective native and grafted forms for alpha-glucosidase are higher than the capacities for invertase. Nonspecific adsorption of total proteins has been reduced considerably after the grafting of acrylate polymers on hydrophobic supports. At the same time selectivity for the adsorption of both the enzymes has been enhanced on grafted supports. The overall solid-liquid adsorption mass transfer coefficient values (Kla) estimated for adsorption of invertase on XAD are lower than those for alpha-glucosidase. Native and grafted resins could be regenerated and reused for adsorption of alpha-glucosidase for two regeneration cycles studied. Storage stability of invertase and alpha-glucosidase is the same on native and grafted form of XAD-16 and is more than the enzymes in the free form.

Elastase, alpha2-macroglobulin and alkaline phosphatase in crevicular fluid from implants with and without periimplantitis.

PubMed

Plagnat, Dominique; Giannopoulou, Catherine; Carrel, Anne; Bernard, Jean-Pierre; Mombelli, Andrea; Belser, Urs C

2002-06-01

The aim of this investigation was to determine the presence of selected enzymes and enzyme inhibitors in crevicular fluid collected from implants with and without clinical, radiographic and microbiological signs of periimplantitis. Eleven implants with symptoms of periimplantitis in eight patients (four men and four women) were compared to eleven implants in seven subjects (one man and six women) without periimplantitis. Periimplant crevicular fluid (PICF) was collected at the mesial and distal sites of each implant. Alkaline phosphatase activity (ALP) was measured by using p-nitrophenyl-phosphate as substrate, elastase activity (EA) by the use of a low molecular weight fluorogenic substrate, and the inhibitor alpha2-macroglobulin (alpha2M) by ELISA. ALP, EA and alpha2M were detected in the majority of samples in both groups. In comparison to the clinically healthy implants, total amounts of each of these substances were significantly higher in PICF collected around implants with periimplantitis. The mean total amounts of EA, alpha2M and ALP in the healthy group were: EA: 1.8 ng, alpha2M: 3.1 ng, ALP: 24.1 U, and in the periimplantitis group EA: 23.1 ng, alpha2M: 25.2 ng and ALP: 142.3 U. In addition, all three mediators were correlated with the clinical parameters. The results confirm the similarity of the inflammatory response of tissues surrounding implants and natural teeth, and suggest that ALP and EA could be promising markers of bone loss around dental implants.

cDNA cloning and characterization of Type I procollagen alpha1 chain in the skate Raja kenojei.

PubMed

Hwang, Jae-Ho; Yokoyama, Yoshihiro; Mizuta, Shoshi; Yoshinaka, Reiji

2006-05-01

A full-length cDNA of the Type I procollagen alpha1 [pro-alpha1(I)] chain (4388 bp), coding for 1463 amino acid residues in the total length, was determined by RACE PCR using a cDNA library constructed from 4-week embryo of the skate Raja kenojei. The helical region of the skate pro-alpha1(I) chain consisted of 1014 amino acid residues - the same as other fibrillar collagen alpha chains from higher vertebrates. Comparison on denaturation temperatures of Type I collagens from the skate, rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and rat (Rattus norvegicus) revealed that the number of Gly-Pro-Pro and Gly-Gly in the alpha1(I) chains could be directly related to the thermal stability of the helix. The expression property of the skate pro-alpha1(I) chain mRNA and phylogenetic analysis with other vertebrate pro-alpha1(I) chains suggested that skate pro-alpha1(I) chain could be a precursor form of the skate Type I collagen alpha1 chain. The present study is the first evidence for the primary structure of full-length pro-alpha1(I) chain in an elasmobranch.

WIND measurements of proton and alpha particle flow and number density

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Steinberg, J. T.; Lazarus, A. J.; Ogilvie, J. T.; Lepping, R.; Byrnes, J.; Chornay, D.; Keller, J.; Torbert, R. B.; Bodet, D.; Needell, G. J.

1995-01-01

We propose to review measurements of the solar wind proton and alpha particle flow velocities and densities made since launch with the WIND SWE instrument. The SWE Faraday cup ion sensors are designed to be able to determine accurately flow vector directions, and thus can be used to detect proton-alpha particle differential flow. Instances of differential flow, and the solar wind features with which they are associated will be discussed. Additionally, the variability of the percentage of alpha particles as a fraction of the total solar wind ion density will be presented.

Selective labelling of diazepam-insensitive GABAA receptors in vivo using [3H]Ro 15-4513.

PubMed

Pym, Luanda J; Cook, Susan M; Rosahl, Thomas; McKernan, Ruth M; Atack, John R

2005-11-01

Classical benzodiazepines (BZs), such as diazepam, bind to GABAA receptors containing alpha1, alpha2, alpha3 or alpha5 subunits that are therefore described as diazepam-sensitive (DS) receptors. However, the corresponding binding site of GABAA receptors containing either an alpha4 or alpha6 subunit do not bind the classical BZs and are therefore diazepam-insensitive (DIS) receptors; a difference attributable to a single amino acid (histidine in alpha1, alpha2, alpha3 and alpha5 subunits and arginine in alpha4 and alpha6). Unlike classical BZs, the imidazobenzodiazepines Ro 15-4513 and bretazenil bind to both DS and DIS populations of GABAA receptors. In the present study, an in vivo assay was developed using lorazepam to fully occupy DS receptors such that [3H]Ro 15-4513 was then only able to bind to DIS receptors. When dosed i.v., [3H]Ro 15-4513 rapidly entered and was cleared from the brain, with approximately 70% of brain radioactivity being membrane-bound. Essentially all membrane binding to DS+DIS receptors could be displaced by unlabelled Ro 15-4513 or bretazenil, with respective ID50 values of 0.35 and 1.2 mg kg(-1). A dose of 30 mg kg(-1) lorazepam was used to block all DS receptors in a [3H]Ro 15-1788 in vivo binding assay. When predosed in a [3H]Ro 15-4513 binding assay, lorazepam blocked [3H]Ro 15-4513 binding to DS receptors, with the remaining binding to DIS receptors accounting for 5 and 23% of the total (DS plus DIS) receptors in the forebrain and cerebellum, respectively. The in vivo binding of [3H]Ro 15-4513 to DIS receptors in the presence of lorazepam was confirmed using alpha1H101R knock-in mice, in which alpha1-containing GABAA receptors are rendered diazepam insensitive by mutation of the histidine that confers diazepam sensitivity to arginine. In these mice, and in the presence of lorazepam, there was an increase of in vivo [3H]Ro 15-4513 binding in the forebrain and cerebellum from 4 and 15% to 36 and 59% of the total (i.e. DS plus DIS) [3H]Ro 15-4513 binding observed in the absence of lorazepam.

Effects of specific alpha-1A/1D blocker on lower urinary tract symptoms due to double-J stent: a prospectively randomized study.

PubMed

Wang, Chung-Jing; Huang, Shi-Wei; Chang, Chien-Hsing

2009-06-01

The aim of our study was to evaluate the effect of tamsulosin in improving symptoms in patients with indwelling double-J ureteral stents. This prospective study lasted from April 2006 to March 2008. All the patients with symptomatic lower ureteral stones with <15 mm diameter were enrolled, and were prospectively randomized (random numbers table) into two groups. A total of 154 patients, with insertion of a double-J ureteral stent after ureteroscopic stone removal. In group 1, 75 patients were enrolled and received placebo for 2 weeks. Group 2 included 79 patients who received 0.4 mg of tamsulosin, once daily for 2 weeks. All patients completed the validated ureteral stent symptom questionnaire (USSQ) and quality of life of international prostate symptom scale (IPSS) for evaluating the symptoms of double-J stents and quality of life after double-J stent insertion and removal, respectively. The analysis of the questionnaire at W1 revealed a significant difference in the main score index of urinary symptoms, body pain and general health between groups 1 and 2. When comparing W1 evaluation with that of W4 after double-J removal, both groups showed significant worsening of urinary symptoms, body pain, general health and work performance, except sexual performance. The mean score of quality of life in IPSS was 4.21 in group 1 and 1.6 in group 2. Tamsulosin can improve a subset of stent-related urinary symptoms and quality of life effectively and may be applied in routine clinical practice.

Dusty Lyman-alpha Emitters As Seen By Spitzer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dolan, Kyle; Scarlata, C.; Colbert, J. W.; Teplitz, H. I.; Hayes, M.

2013-01-01

We have used the IRAC and MIPS Spitzer archive to derive the full mid-IR SED for the largest sample of local Lyman-alpha emitters, probing the internal activities of these sources as well as analyzing the role that dust properties play in the Lyman-alpha escape fraction. We utilized all available IRAC and MIPS data for a sample of about 100 local Lyman-alpha emitters at redshift 0.2≤z≤0.4 , originally discovered by Deharveng et al. (2008) and Cowie et al. (2011), to quantify the level of star formation (SF) and AGN activity in these sources, probing into dust-enshrouded regions that block UV and optical photons from escaping. In order to derive the total bolometric IR luminosity from 8μm to 1000μm, we fit the IR data to the template SEDs derived by Chary and Elbaz (2001). Using this information, we quantified the total star formation rate (SFR) of these galaxies and how much SF is missed by optical and UV surveys. We also identified any AGN activity and produced new estimates for AGN contamination within the population of Lyman-alpha emitters. This work has been supported by NASA's Astrophysics Data Analysis Program, Award # NNX11AH84G.

Estrogen alters the diurnal rhythm of alpha 1-adrenergic receptor densities in selected brain regions

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

Weiland, N.G.; Wise, P.M.

Norepinephrine regulates the proestrous and estradiol-induced LH surge by binding to alpha 1-adrenergic receptors. The density of alpha 1-receptors may be regulated by estradiol, photoperiod, and noradrenergic neuronal activity. We wished to determine whether alpha 1-receptors exhibit a diurnal rhythm in ovariectomized and/or estradiol-treated female rats, whether estradiol regulates alpha 1-receptors in those areas of brain involved with LH secretion and/or sexual behavior, and whether the concentrations of alpha-receptors vary inversely relative to previously reported norepinephrine turnover patterns. Young female rats, maintained on a 14:10 light-dark cycle were ovariectomized. One week later, half of them were outfitted sc with Silasticmore » capsules containing estradiol. Groups of animals were decapitated 2 days later at 0300, 1000, 1300, 1500, 1800, and 2300 h. Brains were removed, frozen, and sectioned at 20 micron. Sections were incubated with (/sup 3/H)prazosin in Tris-HCl buffer, washed, dried, and exposed to LKB Ultrofilm. The densities of alpha 1-receptors were quantitated using a computerized image analysis system. In ovariectomized rats, the density of alpha 1-receptors exhibited a diurnal rhythm in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), medial preoptic nucleus (MPN), and pineal gland. In SCN and MPN, receptor concentrations were lowest during the middle of the day and rose to peak levels at 1800 h. In the pineal gland, the density of alpha 1-receptors was lowest at middark phase, rose to peak levels before lights on, and remained elevated during the day. Estradiol suppressed the density of alpha 1 binding sites in the SCN, MPN, median eminence, ventromedial nucleus, and the pineal gland but had no effect on the lateral septum. Estrogen treatment altered the rhythm of receptor densities in MPN, median eminence, and the pineal gland.« less

Novel amine-based presursor compounds and composite membranes thereof

DOEpatents

Lee, Eric K. L.; Tuttle, Mark E.

1989-01-01

Novel amine-based precursor compounds comprising the condensation products of dialkylenetriamine and alpha, beta-unsaturated acid halides are disclosed, as well as composite membranes containing such compounds, the membranes being useful in RO-type processes for desalination and the removal of low molecular weight organic compounds such as phenols and carboxylic acids.

Selective suppression of cytokine secretion in whole blood cell cultures of patients with colorectal cancer.

PubMed Central

Lahm, H.; Schindel, M.; Frikart, L.; Cerottini, J. P.; Yilmaz, A.; Givel, J. C.; Fischer, J. R.

1998-01-01

We have investigated the secretion of interferon alpha (IFN-alpha), IFN-gamma, interleukin-1alpha (IL-1alpha), IL-1beta, IL-2 and tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) in whole blood cell cultures (WBCCs) of colorectal cancer patients upon mitogen stimulation. Whereas the values for IL-1beta and TNF-alpha remained virtually unchanged in comparison with healthy control subjects, WBCCs of colorectal cancer patients secreted significantly lower amounts of IFN-alpha (P < 0.005), IFN-gamma (P < 0.0001), IL-1alpha (P < 0.0001) and IL-2 (P < 0.05). This reduction correlated with the progression of the disease. The total leucocyte and monocyte population were almost identical in both groups. In contrast, a dramatic depletion of lymphocytes was observed in colorectal cancer patients, which affected both lymphocyte counts (P < 0.0005) and their distribution (P < 0.0001). Our results suggest a selective suppression of cytokines in colorectal cancer patients that is related to tumour burden. Several mechanisms might account for this phenomenon, one of which might be lymphocyte depletion. PMID:9792144

Biogenesis of lysosomal enzymes in the alpha-glucosidase II-deficient modA mutant of Dictyostelium discoideum: retention of alpha-1,3-linked glucose on N-linked oligosaccharides delays intracellular transport but does not alter sorting of alpha-mannosidase or beta-glucosidase.

PubMed

Ebert, D L; Bush, J M; Dimond, R L; Cardelli, J A

1989-09-01

The endoplasmic reticulum-localized enzyme alpha-glucosidase II is responsible for removing the two alpha-1,3-linked glucose residues from N-linked oligosaccharides of glycoproteins. This activity is missing in the modA mutant strain, M31, of Dictyostelium discoideum. Results from both radiolabeled pulse-chase and subcellular fractionation experiments indicate that this deficiency did not prevent intracellular transport and proteolytic processing of the lysosomal enzymes, alpha-mannosidase and beta-glucosidase. However, the rate at which the glucosylated precursors left the rough endoplasmic reticulum was several-fold slower than the rate at which the wild-type precursors left this compartment. Retention of glucose residues did not disrupt the binding of the precursor forms of the enzymes with intracellular membranes, indicating that the delay in movement of proteins from the ER did not result from lack of association with membranes. However, the mutant alpha-mannosidase precursor contained more trypsin-sensitive sites than did the wild-type precursor, suggesting that improper folding of precursor molecules might account for the slow rate of transport to the Golgi complex. Percoll density gradient fractionation of extracts prepared from M31 cells indicated that the proteolytically processed mature forms of alpha-mannosidase and beta-glucosidase were localized to lysosomes. Finally, the mutation in M31 may have other, more dramatic, effects on the lysosomal system since two enzymes, N-acetylglucosaminidase and acid phosphatase, were secreted much less efficiently from lysosomal compartments by the mutant strain.

Simultaneous determination of gross alpha, gross beta and ²²⁶Ra in natural water by liquid scintillation counting.

PubMed

Fons, J; Zapata-García, D; Tent, J; Llauradó, M

2013-11-01

The determination of gross alpha, gross beta and (226)Ra activity in natural waters is useful in a wide range of environmental studies. Furthermore, gross alpha and gross beta parameters are included in international legislation on the quality of drinking water [Council Directive 98/83/EC]. In this work, a low-background liquid scintillation counter (Wallac, Quantulus 1220) was used to simultaneously determine gross alpha, gross beta and (226)Ra activity in natural water samples. Sample preparation involved evaporation to remove (222)Rn and its short-lived decay daughters. The evaporation process concentrated the sample ten-fold. Afterwards, a sample aliquot of 8 mL was mixed with 12 mL of Ultima Gold AB scintillation cocktail in low-diffusion vials. In this study, a theoretical mathematical model based on secular equilibrium conditions between (226)Ra and its short-lived decay daughters is presented. The proposed model makes it possible to determine (226)Ra activity from two measurements. These measurements also allow determining gross alpha and gross beta simultaneously. To validate the proposed model, spiked samples with different activity levels for each parameter were analysed. Additionally, to evaluate the model's applicability in natural water, eight natural water samples from different parts of Spain were analysed. The eight natural water samples were also characterised by alpha spectrometry for the naturally occurring isotopes of uranium ((234)U, (235)U and (238)U), radium ((224)Ra and (226)Ra), (210)Po and (232)Th. The results for gross alpha and (226)Ra activity were compared with alpha spectrometry characterization, and an acceptable concordance was obtained. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Radiometric assay for cytochrome P-450-catalyzed progesterone 16 alpha-hydroxylation and determination of an apparent isotope effect

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

Osawa, Y.; Coon, M.J.

1987-08-01

In the course of studies on the oxygenation of steroids by purified P-450 cytochromes, particularly rabbit liver microsomal cytochrome P-450 form 3b, a rapid and reliable radiometric assay has been devised for progesterone 16 alpha-hydroxylation. In view of the lack of a commercially available, suitably tritiated substrate, (1,2,6,7,16,17-3H)progesterone was treated with alkali to remove the label from potential hydroxylation sites other than the 16 alpha position. The resulting (1,7,16-3H)progesterone was added to a reconstituted enzyme system containing cytochrome P-450 form 3b, NADPH-cytochrome P-450 reductase, and NADPH, and the rate of 16 alpha-hydroxylation was measured by the formation of /sup 3/H/submore » 2/O. This reaction was shown to be linear with respect to time and to the cytochrome P-450 concentration. An apparent tritium isotope effect of 2.1 was observed by comparison of the rates of formation of tritium oxide and 16 alpha-hydroxyprogesterone, and the magnitude of the isotope effect was confirmed by an isotope competition assay in which a mixture of (1,7,16-/sup 3/H)progesterone and (4-14C)progesterone was employed.« less

Seasonal changes in testicular steroidogenesis in the toad Bufo arenarum H.

PubMed

Canosa, L F; Ceballos, N R

2002-02-15

The biosynthesis of androgens in Bufo arenarum takes place through the 5-ene pathway that includes 5-androstane-3beta,17beta-diol as intermediate in testosterone biosynthesis. Besides testosterone and 5alpha-dihydrotestosterone, testes are able to synthesize 5alpha-pregnan-3,20-dione and several 3alpha- and 20alpha-reduced derivatives. Steroid biosynthesis changes during the breeding period (spring and early summer), turning from androgen to C21 steroid production. During the reproductive season, the production of progesterone, 5alpha-pregnan-3alpha,20alpha-diol, 3alpha-hydroxy-5alpha-pregnan-20-one, and 5alpha-pregnan-3,20-dione increases significantly. The function of most of these steroids in amphibians remains unknown. However, 5alpha-androstan-3alpha,17beta-diol and 3alpha-hydroxy-5alpha-pregnan-20-one were shown to be neuroactive in mammals, modulating sexual behavior. Thus, 5alpha/3alpha-reduced steroids could be involved in the regulation of the reproductive behavior in B. arenarum, a species with a dissociated reproductive pattern. Percentage contribution of each enzymes to the total metabolism reveals that neither 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/isomerase nor 5alpha-reductase change throughout the reproductive cycle. However, a strong reduction in 17-hydroxylase-C(17-20) lyase activity occurs in the reproductive season, suggesting that this enzyme could represent a key enzyme in the regulation of the seasonal change of steroidogenesis. Also, 3alpha-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase and 20-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activities increase during the reproductive period, implying that steroid metabolism is clearly focused on C21-reduced steroids. (C)2002 Elsevier Science (USA).

Sesquiterpenoids from roots of Taraxacum laevigatum and Taraxacum disseminatum.

PubMed

Zielińiska, K; Kisiel, W

2000-08-01

Chromatographic separation of ethanolic root extracts of Taraxacum laevigatum and Taraxacum disseminatum afforded a total of eight germacrane- and eudesmane-type sesquiterpenoids. including new compounds, 1beta,3beta,6alpha-trihydroxy-4alpha( 15)-dihydrocostic acid methyl ester and its 1-O-beta-glucopyranoside. Their structures were established by spectroscopic analyses. In addition, the structure of 4alpha(15), 11beta(13)-tetrahydroridentin B-1-O-beta-glucopyranoside was elucidated by extensive NMR studies.

Alterations of hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha in the hippocampus of mice acutely and repeatedly exposed to hypoxia.

PubMed

Shao, Guo; Gao, Cui-Ying; Lu, Guo-Wei

2005-01-01

This work aims at investigating the effects of hypoxic preconditioning on hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1alpha) expression in the hippocampus of mice during acute and repeated hypoxic exposures. The mice were randomly divided into three groups and exposed, respectively, to hypoxia for 4 runs (group H4), 1 run (group H1), and 0 run (group H0). Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), Western blot, electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA), and chromatin immunoprecipitation were used to examine the HIF-1alpha responses in the mouse hippocampus following exposure to hypoxia. The tolerance of mice to hypoxia increased significantly following acute and repetitive exposure to autoprogressive hypoxia. Total mRNA, total protein, and nuclear protein were extracted from the hippocampus for RT-PCR, Western blot, and EMSA, respectively. The HIF-1alpha mRNA levels were found to be increased in group H1 and decreased in group H4. The HIF-1alpha protein levels and HIF-1 DNA-binding activities were increased in group H1 and markedly increased in group H4. One of the HIF-1 target genes, vascular endothelial growth factor, increased in group H4. HIF-1 activation is thought to be involved in the protection of the brain of hypoxic preconditioned mice. Copyright 2005 S. Karger AG, Basel

Effects of 1alpha-hydroxycholecalciferol on growth performance, parameters of tibia and plasma, meat quality, and type IIb sodium phosphate cotransporter gene expression of one- to twenty-one-day-old broilers.

PubMed

Han, J C; Yang, X D; Zhang, T; Li, H; Li, W L; Zhang, Z Y; Yao, J H

2009-02-01

This experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of 1alpha-hydroxycholecalciferol (1alpha-OH D3) on the growth performance, tibia and plasma parameters, nutrient utilization, meat quality of the breast and thigh, and type IIb sodium phosphate cotranspoter gene expression of broilers. A total of 96 males of 1-d-old Arbor Acres broilers were randomly assigned to 8 cages of 12 birds each. Two dietary treatments were applied to 4 cages each. Diet 1 was prepared as the basal diet (nonphytate phosphorus, 0.21%), whereas diet 2 was the basal diet supplemented with 5 microg/kg of 1alpha-OH D3. Results showed that supplementation of the basal diet with 1alpha-OH D3 increased growth performance, tibia ash and strength, plasma inorganic phosphate concentration, utilization of total phosphorus and nonphytate phosphorus, lightness and yellowness of the breast and thigh meat, and intestinal type IIb sodium phosphate cotranspoter mRNA expression, whereas it decreased the shear force and water-holding capacity of the thigh meat. These data suggest that the addition of 1alpha-OH D3 might improve growth performance, tibia development, and meat quality in 1- to 21-d-old broilers by increasing the absorption and retention of phosphorus.

Risk of Lung Cancer Mortality in Nuclear Workers from Internal Exposure to Alpha Particle-emitting Radionuclides

PubMed Central

Atkinson, Will; Bérard, Philippe; Bingham, Derek; Birchall, Alan; Blanchardon, Eric; Bull, Richard; Guseva Canu, Irina; Challeton-de Vathaire, Cécile; Cockerill, Rupert; Do, Minh T.; Engels, Hilde; Figuerola, Jordi; Foster, Adrian; Holmstock, Luc; Hurtgen, Christian; Laurier, Dominique; Puncher, Matthew; Riddell, Anthony E.; Samson, Eric; Thierry-Chef, Isabelle; Tirmarche, Margot; Vrijheid, Martine; Cardis, Elisabeth

2017-01-01

Background: Carcinogenic risks of internal exposures to alpha-emitters (except radon) are poorly understood. Since exposure to alpha particles—particularly through inhalation—occurs in a range of settings, understanding consequent risks is a public health priority. We aimed to quantify dose–response relationships between lung dose from alpha-emitters and lung cancer in nuclear workers. Methods: We conducted a case–control study, nested within Belgian, French, and UK cohorts of uranium and plutonium workers. Cases were workers who died from lung cancer; one to three controls were matched to each. Lung doses from alpha-emitters were assessed using bioassay data. We estimated excess odds ratio (OR) of lung cancer per gray (Gy) of lung dose. Results: The study comprised 553 cases and 1,333 controls. Median positive total alpha lung dose was 2.42 mGy (mean: 8.13 mGy; maximum: 316 mGy); for plutonium the median was 1.27 mGy and for uranium 2.17 mGy. Excess OR/Gy (90% confidence interval)—adjusted for external radiation, socioeconomic status, and smoking—was 11 (2.6, 24) for total alpha dose, 50 (17, 106) for plutonium, and 5.3 (−1.9, 18) for uranium. Conclusions: We found strong evidence for associations between low doses from alpha-emitters and lung cancer risk. The excess OR/Gy was greater for plutonium than uranium, though confidence intervals overlap. Risk estimates were similar to those estimated previously in plutonium workers, and in uranium miners exposed to radon and its progeny. Expressed as risk/equivalent dose in sieverts (Sv), our estimates are somewhat larger than but consistent with those for atomic bomb survivors. See video abstract at, http://links.lww.com/EDE/B232. PMID:28520643

Treatment Characteristics of Second Order Structure of Proteins Using Low-Pressure Oxygen RF Plasma

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

Hayashi, Nobuya; Nakahigashi, Akari; Kawaguchi, Ryutaro

2010-10-13

Removal of proteins from the surface of medical equipments is attempted using oxygen plasma produced by RF discharge. FTIR spectra indicate that the bonding of C-H and N-H in the casein protein is reduced after irradiation of oxygen plasma. Also, the second order structure of a protein such as {alpha}-helix and {beta}-sheet are modified by the oxygen plasma. Complete removal of casein protein with the concentration of 0.016 mg/cm{sup 2} that is equivalent to remnants on the medical equipment requires two hours avoiding the damage to medical equipments.

Disruption of the processing alpha-mannosidase gene does not prevent outer chain synthesis in Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

PubMed Central

Puccia, R; Grondin, B; Herscovics, A

1993-01-01

Processing of N-linked oligosaccharides in Saccharomyces cerevisiae begins with the removal of glucose and mannose residues from Glc3Man9GlcNAc2 to form a single isomer of Man8GlcNAc2. The importance of mannose removal for subsequent outer chain synthesis was examined in strains of S. cerevisiae disrupted in the MNS1 gene encoding a specific alpha 1,2-mannosidase responsible for Man8GlcNAc2 synthesis [Camirand, Heysen, Grondin and Herscovics (1991) J. Biol. Chem. 266, 15120-15127]. Both MNS1 transcripts of 1.85 kb and 1.7 kb were not observed in Northern blots of mns1 cells (i.e. cells containing the disrupted gene). Analysis on Bio-Gel P-6 of endo-beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase-H-sensitive oligosaccharides following a 10 min pulse with [2-3H]mannose revealed similar amounts of labelled outer chains excluded from the gel in both control and mns1 cells. H.p.l.c. of the included oligosaccharides showed that a Man9GlcNAc, rather than a Man8GlcNAc, intermediate was formed in mns1 cells. Analysis of [3H]mannose-labelled core oligosaccharides from immunoprecipitated CPY and invertase by h.p.l.c. showed a similar size distribution in mns1 and control cells. Invertase immunoprecipitated from [35S]methionine-labelled mns1 cells was highly glycosylated, but migrated slightly faster than that from control cells on denaturing PAGE, indicating a small difference in glycosylation. A similar difference in mobility was observed for invertase activity stain following non-denaturing gel electrophoresis. It is concluded that the alpha-mannosidase encoded by MNS1 is the only enzyme responsible for mannose removal in vivo, and that this processing step is not essential for outer chain synthesis. Images Figure 1 Figure 4 PMID:8439291

The suppression of radiation-induced NF-{kappa}B activity by dexamethasone correlates with increased cell death in vivo

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

Nam, Seon Young; Chung, Hee-Yong

2005-10-21

In this study, we show that dexamethasone treatment increases ionizing radiation-induced cell death by inducing the inhibitory {kappa}B{alpha} (I{kappa}B{alpha}) pathway in mice. The effect of dexamethasone on radiation-induced cell death was assessed by changes in total spleen cellularity and bone marrow colony-forming unit-granulocyte-macrophage (CFU-GM) contents after total body irradiation. While in vivo treatment of mice with dexamethasone alone (1 mg/kg/day, for 2 days) failed to elicit cell death in spleen cells, the combined treatment with dexamethasone (1 mg/kg/day, for 2 days) and {gamma}-rays (1 or 5 Gy) caused a 50-80% reduction in total cellularity in spleen and CFU-GM contents inmore » bone marrow. These results demonstrate that dexamethasone has a synergistic effect on radiation-induced cellular damages in vivo. Immunoblot analysis showed that dexamethasone treatment significantly increases I{kappa}B{alpha} expression in the spleens of irradiated mice. In addition, the dexamethasone treatment significantly reduced radiation-induced nuclear translocation of the nucleus factor-{kappa}B in the spleens of irradiated mice. These results indicate that dexamethasone treatment in vivo may increase radiation-induced cell damages by increasing I{kappa}B{alpha} expression in hematopoietic organs such as spleen and bone marrow.« less

Fibreglass Total Contact Casting, Removable Cast Walkers, and Irremovable Cast Walkers to Treat Diabetic Neuropathic Foot Ulcers: A Health Technology Assessment

PubMed Central

Costa, Vania; Tu, Hong Anh; Wells, David; Weir, Mark; Holubowich, Corinne; Walter, Melissa

2017-01-01

Background Diabetic neuropathic foot ulcers are a risk factor for lower leg amputation. Many experts recommend offloading with fibreglass total contact casting, removable cast walkers, and irremovable cast walkers as a way to treat these ulcers. Methods We completed a health technology assessment, which included an evaluation of clinical benefits and harms, value for money, and patient preferences for offloading devices. We performed a systematic literature search on August 17, 2016, to identify randomized controlled trials that compared fibreglass total contact casting, removable cast walkers, and irremovable cast walkers with other treatments (offloading or non-offloading) in patients with diabetic neuropathic foot ulcers. We developed a decision-analytic model to assess the cost-effectiveness of fibreglass total contact casting, removable cast walkers, and irremovable cast walkers, and we conducted a 5-year budget impact analysis. Finally, we interviewed people with diabetes who had lived experience with foot ulcers, asking them about the different offloading devices and the factors that influenced their treatment choices. Results We identified 13 randomized controlled trials. The evidence suggests that total contact casting, removable cast walkers, and irremovable cast walkers are beneficial in the treatment of neuropathic, noninfected foot ulcers in patients with diabetes but without severe peripheral arterial disease. Compared to removable cast walkers, ulcer healing was improved with total contact casting (moderate quality evidence; risk difference 0.17 [95% confidence interval 0.00–0.33]) and irremovable cast walkers (low quality evidence; risk difference 0.21 [95% confidence interval 0.01–0.40]). We found no difference in ulcer healing between total contact casting and irremovable cast walkers (low quality evidence; risk difference 0.02 [95% confidence interval −0.11–0.14]). The economic analysis showed that total contact casting and irremovable cast walkers were less expensive and led to more health outcome gains (e.g., ulcers healed and quality-adjusted life-years) than removable cast walkers. Irremovable cast walkers were as effective as total contact casting and were associated with lower costs. The 5-year budget impact of funding total contact casting, removable cast walkers, and irremovable cast walkers (device costs only at 100% access) would be $17 to $20 million per year. The patients we interviewed felt that wound healing was improved with total contact casting than with removable cast walkers, but that removable cast walkers were more convenient and came with a lower cost burden. They reported no experience or familiarity with irremovable cast walkers. Conclusions Ulcer healing improved with total contact casting, irremovable cast walkers, and removable cast walkers, but total contact casting and irremovable cast walkers had higher rates of ulcer healing than removable cast walkers. Increased access to offloading devices could result in cost savings for the health system because of fewer amputations. Patients with diabetic foot ulcers reported a preference for total contact casting over removable cast walkers, largely because they perceived wound healing to be improved with total contact casting. However, cost, comfort, and convenience are concerns for patients. PMID:28989556

Fibreglass Total Contact Casting, Removable Cast Walkers, and Irremovable Cast Walkers to Treat Diabetic Neuropathic Foot Ulcers: A Health Technology Assessment.

PubMed

2017-01-01

Diabetic neuropathic foot ulcers are a risk factor for lower leg amputation. Many experts recommend offloading with fibreglass total contact casting, removable cast walkers, and irremovable cast walkers as a way to treat these ulcers. We completed a health technology assessment, which included an evaluation of clinical benefits and harms, value for money, and patient preferences for offloading devices. We performed a systematic literature search on August 17, 2016, to identify randomized controlled trials that compared fibreglass total contact casting, removable cast walkers, and irremovable cast walkers with other treatments (offloading or non-offloading) in patients with diabetic neuropathic foot ulcers. We developed a decision-analytic model to assess the cost-effectiveness of fibreglass total contact casting, removable cast walkers, and irremovable cast walkers, and we conducted a 5-year budget impact analysis. Finally, we interviewed people with diabetes who had lived experience with foot ulcers, asking them about the different offloading devices and the factors that influenced their treatment choices. We identified 13 randomized controlled trials. The evidence suggests that total contact casting, removable cast walkers, and irremovable cast walkers are beneficial in the treatment of neuropathic, noninfected foot ulcers in patients with diabetes but without severe peripheral arterial disease. Compared to removable cast walkers, ulcer healing was improved with total contact casting (moderate quality evidence; risk difference 0.17 [95% confidence interval 0.00-0.33]) and irremovable cast walkers (low quality evidence; risk difference 0.21 [95% confidence interval 0.01-0.40]). We found no difference in ulcer healing between total contact casting and irremovable cast walkers (low quality evidence; risk difference 0.02 [95% confidence interval -0.11-0.14]). The economic analysis showed that total contact casting and irremovable cast walkers were less expensive and led to more health outcome gains (e.g., ulcers healed and quality-adjusted life-years) than removable cast walkers. Irremovable cast walkers were as effective as total contact casting and were associated with lower costs. The 5-year budget impact of funding total contact casting, removable cast walkers, and irremovable cast walkers (device costs only at 100% access) would be $17 to $20 million per year. The patients we interviewed felt that wound healing was improved with total contact casting than with removable cast walkers, but that removable cast walkers were more convenient and came with a lower cost burden. They reported no experience or familiarity with irremovable cast walkers. Ulcer healing improved with total contact casting, irremovable cast walkers, and removable cast walkers, but total contact casting and irremovable cast walkers had higher rates of ulcer healing than removable cast walkers. Increased access to offloading devices could result in cost savings for the health system because of fewer amputations. Patients with diabetic foot ulcers reported a preference for total contact casting over removable cast walkers, largely because they perceived wound healing to be improved with total contact casting. However, cost, comfort, and convenience are concerns for patients.

Stromal laminin chain distribution in normal, hyperplastic and malignant oral mucosa: relation to myofibroblast occurrence and vessel formation.

PubMed

Franz, Marcus; Wolheim, Anke; Richter, Petra; Umbreit, Claudia; Dahse, Regine; Driemel, Oliver; Hyckel, Peter; Virtanen, Ismo; Kosmehl, Hartwig; Berndt, Alexander

2010-04-01

The contribution of stromal laminin chain expression to malignant potential, tumour stroma reorganization and vessel formation in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is not fully understood. Therefore, the expression of the laminin chains alpha2, alpha3, alpha4, alpha5 and gamma2 in the stromal compartment/vascular structures in OSCC was analysed. Frozen tissue of OSCC (9x G1, 24x G2, 8x G3) and normal (2x)/hyperplastic (11x) oral mucosa was subjected to laminin chain and alpha-smooth muscle actin (ASMA) immunohistochemistry. Results were correlated to tumour grade. The relation of laminin chain positive vessels to total vessel number was assessed by immunofluorescence double labelling with CD31. Stromal laminin alpha2 chain significantly decreases and alpha3, alpha4, alpha5 and gamma2 chains and also ASMA significantly increase with rising grade. The amount of stromal alpha3, alpha4 and gamma2 chains significantly increased with rising ASMA positivity. There is a significant decrease in alpha3 chain positive vessels with neoplastic transformation. Mediated by myofibroblasts, OSCC development is associated with a stromal up-regulation of laminin isoforms possibly contributing to a migration promoting microenvironment. A vascular basement membrane reorganization concerning alpha3 and gamma2 chain laminins during tumour angioneogenesis is suggested.

The effects of brefeldin-A on the high mannose oligosaccharides of mouse thyrotropin, free alpha-subunits, and total glycoproteins.

PubMed

Perkel, V S; Liu, A Y; Miura, Y; Magner, J A

1988-07-01

We have studied the effects of Brefeldin-A (BFA) on the processing of high mannose (Man) oligosaccharides of TSH. BFA is a drug that inhibits the intracellular translocation of newly synthesized glycoproteins and causes dilatation of the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) as well as mild swelling of the Golgi apparatus. Mouse pituitary thyrotropic tumor tissue was incubated with [3H]Man for a 2-h pulse, with and without a 3-h chase; BFA (5 micrograms/ml) was included during selected pulse and selected chase incubations. TSH and free alpha-subunits were obtained from detergent lysates of tissue by immunoprecipitation using specific antisera. Total glycoproteins were obtained by trichloroacetic acid precipitation. Endoglycosidase-H-released [3H]oligosaccharides were analyzed by paper chromatography. BFA inhibited carbohydrate processing of TSH, free alpha-subunits, and total glycoproteins, resulting in the accumulation of Man8GlcNAc2, Man7GlcNAc2, Man6GlcNAc2, and Man5GlcNAc2, especially during the chase period. Subcellular fractions enriched in RER, heavy (proximal) Golgi, and light (distal) Golgi were prepared by centrifugation in discontinuous sucrose gradients. [3H]Man-labeled oligosaccharides of TSH and total glycoproteins in the subcellular fractions were analyzed. In contrast to oligosaccharides with eight or nine Man residues found in control incubations, BFA caused the accumulation of oligosaccharides containing five to eight Man residues. These BFA-induced oligosaccharide alterations began in the RER and proximal Golgi with the 2-h pulse and extended into the distal Golgi during the chase incubations. Thus, BFA blocks the normal intracellular transport and processing of TSH, free alpha-subunits, and total glycoproteins within thyrotrophs, causing species with smaller than normal high Man oligosaccharides to appear in subcellular compartments as early as the RER. The translocation block between RER and Golgi produced by BFA may prevent the processing of Man8GlcNAc2 to Man5GlcNAc2 by Golgi (alpha,1-2)mannosidase I, yet the species retained within the RER may be subject to ongoing processing by endoplasmic reticulum (alpha,1-2)mannosidase, resulting in the accumulation of Man5-8GlcNAc2 within the RER.

Metabolism of two Go alpha isoforms in neuronal cells during differentiation.

PubMed

Brabet, P; Pantaloni, C; Bockaert, J; Homburger, V

1991-07-15

We have previously shown that undifferentiated N1E-115 neuroblastoma cells express only one isoform of Go alpha (pI = 5.8), whereas differentiated neuroblastoma cells expressed, in addition to this isoform, another Go alpha with a more acidic pI (5.55). Moreover, primary cultures of cerebellar granule cells, which are extremely well differentiated cells yielding a high density of synapses, expressed only a single Go alpha isoform with a pI of 5.55 (Brabet, P., Pantaloni, C., Rodriguez Martinez, J., Bockaert, J., and Homburger, V. (1990) J. Neurochem. 54, 1310-1320). In this report, using biosynthetic labeling with [35S]methionine and specific quantitative immunoprecipitation with a polyclonal antibody raised against the purified Go alpha protein, we have determined 1) the degradation rate of total Go alpha (sum of the two isoforms) in differentiated as well as in undifferentiated neuroblastoma cells and in cerebellar granule cells, 2) the degradation rates of each isoform in differentiated neuroblastoma cells. The t 1/2 for total Go alpha protein degradation was very different in the three neuronal cell populations and was 28 +/- 5 h (n = 5), 58 +/- 9 h (n = 5), and 154 +/- 22 h (n = 6) in undifferentiated, differentiated neuroblastoma, and granule cells, respectively. Using two-dimensional gel analysis of immunoprecipitates, we have also determined the individual t 1/2 for degradation of each Go alpha isoform in differentiated neuroblastoma cells, in which the two Go alpha isoforms were expressed. Results indicated that the two Go alpha isoforms exhibit similar t1/2 for degradation (49 +/- 5 h, n = 3). Thus, the t1/2 for degradation of the more basic Go alpha isoform is higher in differentiated neuroblastoma cells (49 +/- 5 h, n = 3) than in undifferentiated neuroblastoma cells (28 +/- 5 h, n = 5) which expressed only the more basic Go alpha isoform. It can be concluded that the degradation rate of the more basic Go alpha isoform is not a characteristic of the protein itself but depends on the state of the cell differentiation. The comparison between the t1/2 for degradation of the more acidic Go alpha isoform is differentiated neuroblastoma cells (51 +/- 6 h, n = 3) with that of cerebellar granule cells (154 +/- 22 h, n = 6) suggests that there is also a decrease in the degradation rate of the more acidic Go alpha isoform during differentiation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

The X-ray properties of the young open cluster around alpha Persei

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Randich, S.; Schmitt, J. H. M. M.; Prosser, C. F.; Stauffer, J. R.

1995-01-01

The observations of the 50 Myr old alpha Persei open cluster, performed by the Rosat's position sensitive proportional counter (PSPC), are discussed. The X-ray observations cover an area of about 10 sq deg. A total of 160 X-ray sources were detected. The comparison between the X-ray luminosity distribution functions of the alpha Persei sample and the Pleiades indicated that F and G-type stars in the alpha Persei are more X-ray luminous than their older counterparts in the Pleiades. No significant difference was found between the distributions of the K and M-type dwarfs in the two clusters.

Identification of the in vivo truncation sites at the C-terminal region of alpha-A crystallin from aged bovine and human lens

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Takemoto, L. J.; Spooner, B. S. (Principal Investigator)

1995-01-01

Total alpha-A crystallin was purified from young versus old lens, followed by digestion with cyanogen bromide. Laser desorption mass spectrometry of the C-terminal fragment demonstrated age-dependent loss of one and five amino acids from the C-terminus of alpha-A crystallin from both bovine and human lens. These results demonstrate specific peptide bonds of alpha-A crystallin are cleaved during the aging process of the normal lens. The C-terminal region is cleaved in two places between the two hydroxyl-containing amino acids present in the sequence -P-S(T)-S-.

Effect of Photon Hormesis on Dose Responses to Alpha Particles in Zebrafish Embryos.

PubMed

Ng, Candy Yuen Ping; Cheng, Shuk Han; Yu, Kwan Ngok

2017-02-11

Photon hormesis refers to the phenomenon where the biological effect of ionizing radiation with a high linear energy transfer (LET) value is diminished by photons with a low LET value. The present paper studied the effect of photon hormesis from X-rays on dose responses to alpha particles using embryos of the zebrafish ( Danio rerio ) as the in vivo vertebrate model. The toxicity of these ionizing radiations in the zebrafish embryos was assessed using the apoptotic counts at 20, 24, or 30 h post fertilization (hpf) revealed through acridine orange (AO) staining. For alpha-particle doses ≥ 4.4 mGy, the additional X-ray dose of 10 mGy significantly reduced the number of apoptotic cells at 24 hpf, which proved the presence of photon hormesis. Smaller alpha-particle doses might not have inflicted sufficient aggregate damages to trigger photon hormesis. The time gap T between the X-ray (10 mGy) and alpha-particle (4.4 mGy) exposures was also studied. Photon hormesis was present when T ≤ 30 min, but was absent when T = 60 min, at which time repair of damage induced by alpha particles would have completed to prevent their interactions with those induced by X-rays. Finally, the drop in the apoptotic counts at 24 hpf due to photon hormesis was explained by bringing the apoptotic events earlier to 20 hpf, which strongly supported the removal of aberrant cells through apoptosis as an underlying mechanism for photon hormesis.

Characterization of rat leydig cell gonadotropin receptor structure by affinity cross-linking

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

Zhang, Q.Y.; Hwang, J.; Menon, K.M.J.

1986-05-01

The gonadotropin receptor from rat leydig cell has been characterized with respect to binding kinetics and physiological regulation. The present study was intended to examine the structure of the receptor. Leydig cell suspension was prepared by either collagenase digestion or by mechanical disruption of the testis. The cells were incubated with /sup 125/I-hCG and the unreacted hCG was removed by centrifugation. The /sup 125/I-hCG was then covalently linked to the cell surface receptor using cleavable (dithiobis (succinimidyl propionate)) and non-cleavable (disuccinimidyl suberate) cross-linking reagents. The extracted cross-linked membrane proteins were resolved on SDS-polyacrylamide gels under reducing and non-reducing conditions andmore » subjected to autoradiographic analysis. Under non-reducing conditions, two labeled species with M/sub r/ = 87,000 and 120,000 were detected. However, only one labeled band was detected under reducing conditions with M/sub r/ = 64,000. The binding of /sup 125/I-hCG to the receptor was inhibited by hCG and LH, but not by a number of peptides and proteins. The data suggest that hCG receptor in leydig cell is an oligomeric complex consisting of four subunits, ..cap alpha cap alpha beta gamma... The ..beta.. and ..gamma.. subunits are each linked to an ..cap alpha.. subunit through disulfide linkage and the hormone binds to each ..cap alpha.. subunit. The two dimers formed (..cap alpha beta cap alpha gamma..) are associated by noncovalent interactions.« less

The photoionization mechanism of LINERs - Stellar and nonstellar

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ho, Luis C.; Filippenko, Alexei V.

1993-01-01

We present high quality spectroscopic observations of a sample of 14 LINERs. Starlight removal is achieved by the subtraction of a suitable absorption-line 'template' galaxy, allowing accurate measurements of emission lines. We use these line fluxes to examine the possible excitation mechanisms of LINERs. We suggest that LINERs with weak forbidden O I 6300-A emission may be H II regions photoionized by unusually hot O-type stars. LINERs with forbidden O I/H-alpha approximately greater than 1/6 may be powered by photoionization from a nonstellar continuum. This is supported by the detection of broad H-alpha emission, a correlation between line width and critical density, and pointlike X-ray emission in several of these objects.

Preparation and characterization of a dextran-amylase conjugate.

PubMed

Marshall, J J

1976-07-01

Bacillus amyloliquefaciens alpha-amylase was attached to dextran after activation of the polysaccharide by using a modification of the cyanogen bromide method. The soluble dextran-amylase conjugate was purified by molecular-sieve chromatography. The conjugated enzyme has greater stability than the unmodified enzyme at low pH values, during heat treatment, and on removal of calcium ions with a chelating agent. Attachment of dextran to alpha-amylase did not alter the Michaelis constant of the enzyme acting on starch. The polysaccharide-enzyme conjugate probably consists of a cross-linked aggregate of many dextran and many enzyme molecules, in which a proportion of the enzyme molecules, although not inactivated, are unable to express their activity, except after dextranase treatment.

Microstructure Evolution in Cut Metal Chips of Ti-6Al-4V

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dong, L.; Schneider, J. A.

2008-01-01

The microstructural evolution following metal cutting was investigated within metal chips of Ti-6Al-4V. Metal cutting was used to impose a high strain rate on the order of approx.10(exp 5)/s within the primary shear zone as the metal was removed from the workpiece. The initial microstructure of the parent material (PM) was composed of a bi-modal microstructure with coarse prior beta grains and equiaxed primary alpha located at the boundaries. After metal cutting, the microstructure of the metal chips showed coarsening of the equiaxed primary alpha grains and beta lamellar. These metallographic findings suggest that the metal chips experienced high temperatures which remained below the beta transus temperature.

The Apollo Alpha Spectrometer.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jagoda, N.; Kubierschky, K.; Frank, R.; Carroll, J.

1973-01-01

Located in the Science Instrument Module of Apollo 15 and 16, the Alpha Particle Spectrometer was designed to detect and measure the energy of alpha particles emitted by the radon isotopes and their daughter products. The spectrometer sensor consisted of an array of totally depleted silicon surface barrier detectors. Biased amplifier and linear gate techniques were utilized to reduce resolution degradation, thereby permitting the use of a single 512 channel PHA. Sensor identification and in-flight radioactive calibration were incorporated to enhance data reduction.

Effect of atmospheric extinction on laser rangefinder performance at 1.54 and 0.6 microns

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hutt, D. L.; Theriault, J.-M.; Larochelle, V.; Bonnier, D.

1992-01-01

Extinction of laser rangefinder (LRF) pulses by the atmosphere depends on the wavelength, weather conditions, and aerosol concentration along the optical path. In the IR, extinction is due to absorption by molecular constituents and scattering and absorption by aerosols. The total atmospheric extinction alpha(lambda) is the sum of the molecular and aerosol contributions, alpha(sub m)(lambda)and Alpha(sub a)(lambda). We present simple expressions for alpha(sub m)(lambda) and alpha(sub a)(lambda) for two LRF sources: Er:glass and CO2 which operate at 1.54 and 10.6 microns, respectively. The expressions are based on accepted models of atmospheric aerosols and molecular extinction and give an estimate of alpha(lambda) as a function of standard meteorological parameters, assuming horizontal beam propagation. Signal-to-noise ratios of LRF returns, measured from a reference target under different weather conditions are compared to predictions based on the estimate of alpha(lambda).

Fungal Peptaibiotics: Assessing Potential Meteoritic Amino Acid Contamination

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Elsila, J. E.; Callahan, M. P.; Glavin, D. P.; Dworkin, J. P.; Bruckner, H.

2010-01-01

The presence of non-protein alpha-dialkyl-amino acids such as alpha-aminoisobutyric acid (alpha-A1B) and isovaline (Iva), which are relatively rare in the terrestrial biosphere, has long been used as an indication of the indigeneity of meteoritic amino acids, however, the discovery of alpha-AIB in peptides producers by a widespread group of filamentous fungi indicates the possibility of a terrestrial biotic source for the alpha-AIB observed in some meteorites. The alpha-AIB-containing peptides produced by these fungi are dubbed peptaibiotics. We measured the molecular distribution and stable carbon and nitrogen isotopic ratios for amino acids found in the total hydrolysates of four biologically synthesized peptaibiotics. We compared these aneasurenetts with those from the CM2 carbonaceous chondrite Murchison and from three Antarctic CR2 carbonaceous chondrites in order to understand the peptaibiotics as a potential source of meteoritic contamination.

Study on molecular epidemiology of the alpha-thalassemias in Liuzhou City, Guangxi Autonomous Region, China.

PubMed

Cai, Ren; Liu, Jingzhong; Wang, Lirong; Liang, Xin; Xiao, Bai; Su, Liu; Zhou, Yan; Pan, Lizhen

2004-01-01

Guangxi is one of the provinces of Southern China with the highest incidence of alpha-thalassemia (thal). Liuzhou is the second biggest city in Guangxi. To find out the incidence of the various alpha-thal genotypes, and their distribution in the Liuzhou area, an F820 Blood Cell Analysis System was used to measure the parameters of red blood cells. A SPIFE Rapid Auto-Electrophoresis System was used to analyze the normal and abnormal hemoglobins (Hbs). Multiplex polymerase chain reaction (mPCR) was used to detect the alpha-globin genotypes. Thirty-two (2.05%) out of 7805 young couples undergoing pre-marriage counseling, were diagnosed as having an Hb H (beta4) disease. The study of 1228 cord blood samples revealed 138 newborn children carrying an alpha-thal determinant with nine different genotypes, thus making the total incidence of alpha-thal 11.24%. Among 185 cases of Hb H, 119 (64.1%) were confirmed as being deletional, and 66 cases (35.7%) nondeletional types. The severity of the Hb H diseases could be classified in the following order: alphaCSalpha/--SEA (alphaConstant (Spring)alpha/--Southeast Asia); alpha(-4.2)/--SEA; alpha(-3.7)/--SEA. Ten cases of alpha-thal determinants were found in combination with beta-thal. The mPCR technique can detect all kinds of combinations of the three common large deletions (--SEA, alpha(-4.2) and alpha(-3.7)) accurately and conveniently.

Uroepithelial cells are part of a mucosal cytokine network.

PubMed Central

Hedges, S; Agace, W; Svensson, M; Sjögren, A C; Ceska, M; Svanborg, C

1994-01-01

This study compared the cytokine production of uroepithelial cell lines in response to gram-negative bacteria and inflammatory cytokines. Human kidney (A498) and bladder (J82) epithelial cell lines were stimulated with either Escherichia coli Hu734, interleukin 1 alpha (IL-1 alpha), or tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha). Supernatant samples were removed, and the RNA was extracted from cells at 0, 2, 6, and 24 h. The secreted cytokine levels were determined by bioassay or immunoassay; mRNA was examined by reverse transcription-PCR. The two cell lines secreted IL-6 and IL-8 constitutively. IL-6 and IL-8 mRNA were constitutively produced in both cell lines; IL-1 beta mRNA was detected in J82 cells. IL-1 alpha induced significantly higher levels of IL-6 secretion than did E. coli Hu734 or TNF-alpha. IL-1 alpha and TNF-alpha induced significantly higher levels of IL-8 secretion than did E. coli Hu734. Secreted IL-1 beta was not detected; IL-1 alpha and TNF-alpha were not detected above the levels used for stimulation. IL-1 alpha, IL-1 beta, IL-6, and IL-8 mRNAs were detected in both cell lines after exposure to the stimulants. TNF-alpha mRNA was occasionally detected in the J82 cell line after TNF-alpha stimulation. Cytokine (IL-6 and IL-8) and control (glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase [G3PDH] and beta-actin) mRNA concentrations were quantitated with internal PCR standards. Cytokine mRNA levels relative to beta-actin mRNA levels were the highest in E. coli-stimulated cells. In comparison, the cytokine mRNA levels relative to G3PDH mRNA levels were the highest in IL-1 alpha-stimulated cells. beta-Actin mRNA levels decreased after bacterial stimulation but not after cytokine stimulation, while G3PDH mRNA levels increased in response to all of the stimulants tested. These results suggested that E. coli Hu734 lowered the beta-actin mRNA levels in uroepithelial cells, thus distorting the IL-6 and IL-8 mRNA levels relative to this control. In summary, E. coli IL-1 alpha and TNF-alpha were found to activate the de novo synthesis and secretion of IL-6 and IL-8 in uroepithelial cells. These results emphasize the role of epithelial cells in cytokine-mediated responses during the early stages of infection. Images PMID:8188354

The Citizen CATE Experiment: Techniques to Determine Totality Coverage and Clouded Data Removal.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McKay, Myles A.; Ursache, Andrei; Penn, Matthew; Citizen CATE Experiment 2017 Team

2018-01-01

August 21, 2017, the Citizen Continental-America Telescopic Eclipse(CATE) Experiment observed the 2017 total solar eclipse using a network of 68 identical telescopes and camera systems along the path of totality. The result from the observation was over 90% of all sites collected totality data on the day of the eclipse. Since the volunteers had to remove the solar filter manually, there is an uncertainty between the time of totality and data acquired during totality. Some sites also experienced cloudy weather which obscured the eclipse in some of the exposures but had small breaks in the clouds during the observation, collecting clear totality data. Before we can process and analyze the eclipse data, we must carefully determine which frames cover the time of totality for each site and remove exposures with clouds blocking the FOV. In this poster, we will discuss the techniques we used to determine the extent of totality from each location using the logged GPS data and the removal of totality exposure with clouds.

Loss of heterocyclic amine mutagens by insoluble hemicellulose fiber and high-molecular-weight soluble polyphenolics of coffee.

PubMed

Kato, T; Takahashi, S; Kikugawa, K

1991-01-01

The presence of 2 kinds of components in brewed and instant coffee that could remove and destroy heterocyclic amine mutagens was demonstrated. The component that could remove the mutagens was insoluble fiber composed of hemicellulose. The fiber could tightly adsorb the mutagens Trp-P-1, Trp-P-2, Glu-P-1 and A alpha C, and those generated in roasted coffee beans. The component that could destroy the mutagens was high-molecular-weight soluble polyphenolics. They might be converted into quinone derivatives in the presence of molecular oxygen. The quinone derivatives might destroy the mutagens. The fibers and the polyphenolics in one cup of brewed or instant coffee had the capacity to remove and destroy a substantial amount of the mutagens in pyrolysates of foodstuffs.

Does the usage of digital chest drainage systems reduce pleural inflammation and volume of pleural effusion following oncologic pulmonary resection?-A prospective randomized trial.

PubMed

De Waele, Michèle; Agzarian, John; Hanna, Waël C; Schieman, Colin; Finley, Christian J; Macri, Joseph; Schneider, Laura; Schnurr, Terri; Farrokhyar, Forough; Radford, Katherine; Nair, Parameswaran; Shargall, Yaron

2017-06-01

Prolonged air leak and high-volume pleural drainage are the most common causes for delays in chest tube removal following lung resection. While digital pleural drainage systems have been successfully used in the management of post-operative air leak, their effect on pleural drainage and inflammation has not been studied before. We hypothesized that digital drainage systems (as compared to traditional analog continuous suction), using intermittent balanced suction, are associated with decreased pleural inflammation and postoperative drainage volumes, thus leading to earlier chest tube removal. One hundred and three [103] patients were enrolled and randomized to either analog (n=50) or digital (n=53) drainage systems following oncologic lung resection. Chest tubes were removed according to standardized, pre-defined protocol. Inflammatory mediators [interleukin-1B (IL-1B), 6, 8, tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)] in pleural fluid and serum were measured and analysed. The primary outcome of interest was the difference in total volume of postoperative fluid drainage. Secondary outcome measures included duration of chest tube in-situ, prolonged air-leak incidence, length of hospital stay and the correlation between pleural effusion formation, degree of inflammation and type of drainage system used. There was no significant difference in total amount of fluid drained or length of hospital stay between the two groups. A trend for shorter chest tube duration was found with the digital system when compared to the analog (P=0.055). Comparison of inflammatory mediator levels revealed no significant differences between digital and analog drainage systems. The incidence of prolonged post-operative air leak was significantly higher when using the analog system (9 versus 2 patients; P=0.025). Lobectomy was associated with longer chest tube duration (P=0.001) and increased fluid drainage when compared to sub-lobar resection (P<0.001), regardless of drainage system. Use of post-lung resection digital drainage does not appear to decrease pleural fluid formation, but is associated with decreased prolonged air leaks. Total pleural effusion volumes did not differ with the type of drainage system used. These findings support previously established benefits of the digital system in decreasing prolonged air leaks, but the advantages do not appear to extend to decreased pleural fluid formation.

Concentration of Uranium Radioisotopes in Albanian Drinking Waters Measured by Alpha Spectrometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bylyku, Elida; Cfarku, Florinda; Deda, Antoneta; Bode, Kozeta; Fishka, Kujtim

2010-01-01

Uranium is a radioactive material that is frequently found in rocks and soil. When uranium decays, it changes into different elements that are also radioactive, including radon, a gas that is known to cause a lung cancer. The main concern with uranium in drinking water is harm to the kidneys. Public water systems are required to keep uranium levels at or below 500 mBq per liter to protect against kidney damage. Such an interest is needed due to safety, regulatory compliance and disposal issue for uranium in the environment since uranium is included as an obligatory controlled radionuclide in the European Legislation (Directive 98/83 CE of Council of 03.11.1998). The aim of this work is to measure the levels of uranium in drinking and drilled well waters in Albania. At first each sample was measured for total Alpha and total Beta activity. The samples with the highest levels of total alpha activity were chosen for the determination of uranium radioisotopes by alpha spectrometry. A radiochemical procedure using extraction with TBP (Tri-Butyl-Phosphate) is used in the presence of U232 as a yield tracer. Thin sources for alpha spectrometry are prepared by electrodepositing on to stainless steel discs. The results of the U238 activity measured in the different samples, depending from their geological origin range between 0.55-13.87 mBq/l. All samples measured results under the European Directive limits for U238 (5-500 mBq/1), Dose Coefficients according to Directive 96/29 EURATOM.

Estrogen and/or Estrogen Receptor α Inhibits BNIP3-Induced Apoptosis and Autophagy in H9c2 Cardiomyoblast Cells.

PubMed

Chen, Bih-Cheng; Weng, Yi-Jiun; Shibu, Marthandam Asokan; Han, Chien-Kuo; Chen, Yueh-Sheng; Shen, Chia-Yao; Lin, Yueh-Min; Viswanadha, Vijaya Padma; Liang, Hsin-Yueh; Huang, Chih-Yang

2018-04-26

The process of autophagy in heart cells maintains homeostasis during cellular stress such as hypoxia by removing aggregated proteins and damaged organelles and thereby protects the heart during the times of starvation and ischemia. However, autophagy can lead to substantial cell death under certain circumstances. BCL2/adenovirus E1B 19 kDa protein-interacting protein 3 (BNIP3), a hypoxia-induced marker, has been shown to induce both autophagy and apoptosis. A BNIP3-docked organelle, e.g., mitochondria, also determines whether autophagy or apoptosis will take place. Estrogen (E2) and estrogen receptor (ER) alpha (ERα) have been shown to protect the heart against mitochondria-dependent apoptosis. The aim of the present study is to investigate the mechanisms by which ERα regulates BNIP3-induced apoptosis and autophagy, which is associated with hypoxic injury, in cardiomyoblast cells. An in vitro model to mimic hypoxic injury in the heart by engineering H9c2 cardiomyoblast cells to overexpress BNIP3 was established. Further, the effects of E2 and ERα in BNIP3-induced apoptosis and autophagy were determined in BNIP3 expressing H9c2 cells. Results from TUNEL assay and Immunoflourecense assay for LC3 puncta formation, respectively, revealed that ERα/E2 suppresses BNIP3-induced apoptosis and autophagy. The Western blot analysis showed ERα/E2 decreases the protein levels of caspase 3 (apoptotic marker), Atg5, and LC3-II (autophagic markers). Co-immunoprecipitation of BNIP3 and immunoblotting of Bcl-2 and Rheb showed that ERα reduced the interaction between BNIP3 and Bcl-2 or Rheb. The results confirm that ERα binds to BNIP3 causing a reduction in the levels of functional BNIP3 and thereby inhibits cellular apoptosis and autophagy. In addition, ERα attenuated the activity of the BNIP3 promoter by binding to SP-1 or NFκB sites.

Expression of anti-tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) single-chain variable fragment (scFv) in Spirodela punctata plants transformed with Agrobacterium tumefaciens.

PubMed

Balaji, Parthasarathy; Satheeshkumar, P K; Venkataraman, Krishnan; Vijayalakshmi, M A

2016-05-01

Therapeutic antibodies against tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) have been considered effective for some of the autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's diseases, and so on. But associated limitations of the current therapeutics in terms of cost, availability, and immunogenicity have necessitated the need for alternative candidates. Single-chain variable fragment (scFv) can negate the limitations tagged with the anti-TNFα therapeutics to a greater extent. In the present study, Spirodela punctata plants were transformed with anti-TNFα through in planta transformation using Agrobacterium tumefaciens strain, EHA105. Instead of cefotaxime, garlic extract (1 mg/mL) was used to remove the agrobacterial cells after cocultivation. To the best of our knowledge, this report shows for the first time the application of plant extracts in transgenic plant development. 95% of the plants survived screening under hygromycin. ScFv cDNA integration in the plant genomic DNA was confirmed at the molecular level by PCR. The transgenic protein expression was followed up to 10 months. Expression of scFv was confirmed by immunodot blot. Protein expression levels of up to 6.3% of total soluble protein were observed. β-Glucuronidase and green fluorescent protein expressions were also detected in the antibiotic resistant plants. The paper shows the generation of transgenic Spirodela punctuata plants through in planta transformation. © 2015 International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

Analysis of total microbiota in dentin after mechanical or papain-based chemomechanical caries removal.

PubMed

de Almeida, Sandro Marco Steanini; Franca, Fabiana Mantovani Gomes; Florio, Flavia Martao; Ambrosano, Glaucia Maria Bovi; Basting, Roberta Tarkany

2013-07-01

Chemomechanical caries removal, when compared with removal using conventional rotary instruments, seems to preserve healthy tooth structure with less trauma to the patient. This study performed in vivo analysis of the total number of microorganisms in dentin after the use of conventional or chemomechanical (papain gel) caries removal methods. Analyses were performed before caries removal (baseline), immediately after caries removal, and 45 days after caries removal and temporary cavity sealing. Sixty patients were selected for this study, each with two mandibular molars (one on each side) with occlusal caries of moderate depth, for a total of 120 teeth. For each patient, the carious lesion of one tooth was removed by conventional methods using low speed drills (Group 1). For the other tooth, a chemomechanical method was used (Group 2). Dentin samples were collected at the three intervals and subjected to microbiological culture in blood agar. For the total number of microorganisms in both groups, ANOVA and Tukey tests (which considered the baseline values as a covariable) showed a higher microbial count immediately after the preparation of the cavity compared to the count at 45 days (P < 0.05). For both groups, the total count of microorganisms in dentin decreased 45 days after placing the temporary cavity sealing.

A method for preparing ferric activated carbon composites adsorbents to remove arsenic from drinking water.

PubMed

Zhang, Qiao Li; Lin, Y C; Chen, X; Gao, Nai Yun

2007-09-30

Iron oxide/activated carbon (FeO/AC) composite adsorbent material, which was used to modify the coal-based activated carbon (AC) 12 x 40, was prepared by the special ferric oxide microcrystal in this study. This composite can be used as the adsorbent to remove arsenic from drinking water, and Langmuir isotherm adsorption equation well describes the experimental adsorption isotherms. Then, the arsenic desorption can subsequently be separated from the medium by using a 1% aqueous NaOH solution. The apparent characters and physical chemistry performances of FeO/AC composite were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), nitrogen adsorption, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Batch and column adsorption experiments were carried out to investigate and compare the arsenic removal capability of the prepared FeO/AC composite material and virgin activated carbon. It can be concluded that: (1) the main phase present in this composite are magnetite (Fe(3)O(4)), maghemite (gamma-Fe(2)O(3)), hematite (alpha-Fe(2)O(3)) and goethite (alpha-FeO(OH)); (2) the presence of iron oxides did not significantly affect the surface area or the pore structure of the activated carbon; (3) the comparisons between the adsorption isotherms of arsenic from aqueous solution onto the composite and virgin activated carbon showed that the FeO/AC composite behave an excellent capacity of adsorption arsenic than the virgin activated carbon; (4) column adsorption experiments with FeO/AC composite adsorbent showed that the arsenic could be removed to below 0.01 mg/L within 1250 mL empty bed volume when influent concentration was 0.5mg/L.

The effect of alpha-tocopherol on the oxidation and free radical decay in irradiated UHMWPE.

PubMed

Oral, Ebru; Rowell, Shannon L; Muratoglu, Orhun K

2006-11-01

We developed a radiation cross-linked ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) stabilized with alpha-tocopherol (Vitamin E) as a bearing material in total joint replacements. The stabilizing effect of alpha-tocopherol on free radical reactions in UHMWPE is not well understood. We investigated the effect of alpha-tocopherol on the oxidation and transformation of residual free radicals during real-time aging of alpha-tocopherol-doped, irradiated UHMWPE (alphaTPE) and irradiated UHMWPE (control). Samples were aged at 22 degrees C (room temperature) in air, at 40 degrees C in air and at 40 degrees C in water for 7 months. During the first month, alphaTPE showed some oxidation at the surface, which stayed constant thereafter. Control exhibited substantial oxidation in the subsurface region, which increased with time. The alkyl/allyl free radicals transformed to oxygen centered ones in both materials; this transformation occurred faster in alpha-TPE. In summary, the real-time oxidation behavior of alpha-TPE was consistent with that observed using accelerated aging methods. This new UHMWPE is oxidation resistant and is expected to maintain its properties in the long term.

Involvement of 20alpha-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase in the maintenance of pregnancy in mice.

PubMed

Choi, Jae-hyek; Ishida, Maho; Matsuwaki, Takashi; Yamanouchi, Keitaro; Nishihara, Masugi

2008-12-01

The enzyme 20alpha-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (20alpha-HSD) catabolizes progesterone into a biologically inactive steroid, 20alpha-dihydroprogesterone (20alpha-OHP). In the corpora lutea of rats and mice, 20alpha-HSD is considered to be involved in functional luteolysis. It is also distributed in other tissues including the placenta, endometrial epithelia and fetal skin, although the roles it plays in these tissues remain to be elucidated. In the present study, we investigated the role of 20alpha-HSD in the maintenance of pregnancy using mice with targeted disruption of the 20alpha-HSD gene. We first confirmed that the number of pups was significantly smaller in 20alpha-HSD-/- pairs than in 20alpha-HSD+/+ pairs. We then mated 20alpha-HSD+/- males and females so that each pregnant female produced 20alpha-HSD+/+, 20alpha-HSD+/- and 20alpha-HSD-/- offspring. The genotype ratio of the offspring did not match the Mendel's law of inheritance, and the numbers of 20alpha-HSD+/- and 20alpha-HSD-/- offspring were smaller than expected values. Although the genotype ratio of fetuses on days 13, 15 and 18 of pregnancy matched the Mendel's law, the total number of fetuses on day 18 was significantly smaller than that on day 13, suggesting that fetal loss occurred during late pregnancy. Next, we transferred 20alpha-HSD+/+ embryos to 20alpha-HSD+/+ or 20alpha-HSD-/- females and found that the number of offspring was significantly smaller in 20alpha-HSD-/- dams than in 20alpha-HSD+/+ dams. Expression of 20alpha-HSD mRNA in the fetus, placenta and uterus progressively increased from day 11 to 18 of pregnancy. In addition, concentrations of progesterone were significantly higher in the 20alpha-HSD-/- fetuses than in the 20alpha-HSD+/+ fetuses, while those of 20alpha-OHP were lower in the 20alpha-HSD-/- fetuses than in the 20alpha-HSD+/+ fetuses. These results suggest that both maternal and fetal 20alpha-HSD play a role in maintaining normal pregnancy at least partially by reducing progesterone concentrations in fetuses.

[Effects of noise and music on EEG power spectrum].

PubMed

Yuan, Q; Liu, X H; Li, D C; Wang, H L; Liu, Y S

2000-12-01

Objective. To observe the effect of noise and music on EEG power spectrum. Method. 12 healthy male pilots aged 30 +/- 0.58 years served as the subjects. Dynamic EEG from 16 regions was recorded during quiet, under noise or when listening to music using Oxford MR95 Holter recorder. Changes of EEG power spectrum of delta, theta, alpha1, alpha2, beta1 and beta2, frequency components in 16 regions were analyzed. Result. The total alpha1 power was significantly decreased, while the total theta power was significantly increased when listening to music; It implies that the interhemispheric transmission of information in the frontotemporal areas might be involved. Conclusion. The changes of the EEG power spectrum were closely related to man's emotions; relaxation was associated with music; Individual difference exists in the influence of sound on EEG.

Alpha-Amylase Inhibition and Antioxidative Capacity of Some Antidiabetic Plants Used by the Traditional Healers in Southeastern Nigeria

PubMed Central

Oyedemi, Blessing O.; Ijeh, Ifeoma I.; Ohanyerem, Princemartins E.; Aiyegoro, Olayinka A.

2017-01-01

Oxidative stress plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of metabolic syndrome including diabetes mellitus (DM). The inhibition of alpha-amylase is an important therapeutic target in the regulation of postprandial increase of blood glucose in diabetic patients. The present study investigated the alpha-amylase inhibitory and antioxidant potential of selected herbal drugs used in the treatment of DM by the traditional healers in Isiala Mbano and Ikwuano regions of southeastern Nigeria. Antioxidant activity was evaluated in terms of free radical scavenging, reducing power, and total phenolic (TPC) and flavonoid content (TFC) in consonance with the TLC profiling. The results showed that methanol crude extracts from Anacardium occidentale (AO) and Ceiba pentandra (CP) recorded higher TPC and TFC, potent free radical scavenging, and efficient reducing power (RP) as compared with other plant samples. All the plant extracts exhibited a relative alpha-amylase inhibition apart from Strophanthus hispidus (SH) extract with a negative effect. We discovered a mild to weak correlation between alpha-amylase inhibition or antioxidative capacity and the total phenol or flavonoid content. At least in part, the results obtained in this work support the traditional use of certain plant species in the treatment of patients with DM. PMID:28367491

40 CFR 192.11 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... of alpha particles with a total energy of 130 billion electron volts. (d) Soil means all... current or potential source of drinking water because (1) the concentration of total dissolved solids is...

40 CFR 192.11 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... of alpha particles with a total energy of 130 billion electron volts. (d) Soil means all... current or potential source of drinking water because (1) the concentration of total dissolved solids is...

40 CFR 192.11 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... of alpha particles with a total energy of 130 billion electron volts. (d) Soil means all... current or potential source of drinking water because (1) the concentration of total dissolved solids is...

40 CFR 192.11 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... of alpha particles with a total energy of 130 billion electron volts. (d) Soil means all... current or potential source of drinking water because (1) the concentration of total dissolved solids is...

40 CFR 192.11 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... of alpha particles with a total energy of 130 billion electron volts. (d) Soil means all... current or potential source of drinking water because (1) the concentration of total dissolved solids is...

[Role of calcium ions in the mechanism of action of acetylcholine on energy metabolism in rat liver mitochondria].

PubMed

Vatamaniuk, M Z; Artym, V V; Kuka, O B; Doliba, M M; Shostakovs'ka, I V

1996-01-01

It is shown that administration of acetylcholine to animals (50 micrograms per 100 g of body weight) leads to the activation of respiration and oxidative phosphorylation in the rat liver mitochondria under oxidation of alpha-ketoglutarate; this effect depends on the concentration of calcium ions in the incubation medium of mitochondria. The rate of ADP-stimulated respiration of mitochondria of experimental animals reaches its maximum level under lower concentrations of Ca2+ than in the control animals. The results of investigation of dependence of acetyl choline effect on respiration of mitochondria on the concentration of alpha-ketoglutarate in calcium and calcium-free incubation medium have shown that the half-maximum effect of acetylcholine is observed in calcium medium at lower concentration of the substrate than in calcium-free medium. The latter indicates to the increase of affinity of alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase to alpha-ketoglutarate under these conditions. It is found out that acetylcholine (1.10(-8) M) increases the rate of ADP- and Ca(2+)-stimulated respiration of mitochondria of isolated perfused rat liver, while mutual effect of verapamyl and niphedipin removes this effect.

Simultaneous improvement in production of microalgal biodiesel and high-value alpha-linolenic acid by a single regulator acetylcholine.

PubMed

Parsaeimehr, Ali; Sun, Zhilan; Dou, Xiao; Chen, Yi-Feng

2015-01-01

Photoautotrophic microalgae are a promising avenue for sustained biodiesel production, but are compromised by low yields of biomass and lipids at present. We are developing a chemical approach to improve microalgal accumulation of feedstock lipids as well as high-value alpha-linolenic acid which in turn might provide a driving force for biodiesel production. We demonstrate the effectiveness of the small bioactive molecule "acetylcholine" on accumulation of biomass, total lipids, and alpha-linolenic acid in Chlorella sorokiniana. The effectiveness exists in different species of Chlorella. Moreover, the precursor and analogs of acetylcholine display increased effectiveness at higher applied doses, with maximal increases by 126, 80, and 60% over controls for biomass, total lipids, and alpha-linolenic acid, respectively. Production of calculated biodiesel was also improved by the precursor and analogs of acetylcholine. The biodiesel quality affected by changes in microalgal fatty acid composition was addressed. The chemical approach described here could improve the lipid yield and biodiesel production of photoautotrophic microalgae if combined with current genetic approaches.

Production of alpha 1,3-galactosyltransferase gene-deficient pigs by somatic cell nuclear transfer: a novel selection method for gal alpha 1,3-Gal antigen-deficient cells.

PubMed

Fujimura, Tatsuya; Takahagi, Yoichi; Shigehisa, Tamotsu; Nagashima, Hiroshi; Miyagawa, Shuji; Shirakura, Ryota; Murakami, Hiroshi

2008-09-01

The objective of the present study was to isolate alpha 1,3-galactosyltransferase (GalGT)-gene double knockout (DKO) cells using a novel simple method of cell selection method. To obtain GalGT-DKO cells, GalGT-gene single knockout (SKO) fetal fibroblast cells were cultured for three to nine passages and GalGT-null cells were separated using a biotin-labeled IB4 lectin attached to streptavidin-coated magnetic beads. After 15-17 days of additional cultivation, seven GalGT-DKO cell colonies were obtained from a total of 2.5 x 10(7) GalGT-SKO cells. A total of 926 somatic nuclear transferred embryos reconstructed with the DKO cells were transferred into eight recipient pigs, producing four farrowed, three liveborns, and six stillborns. Absence of GalGT gene in the cloned pigs was confirmed by PCR and Southern blotting. Flow cytometric analysis revealed that alphaGal antigens were not present in the cells of the cloned DKO pigs.

Overexpression of {alpha}-catenin increases osteoblastic differentiation in mouse mesenchymal C3H10T1/2 cells

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

Kim, Dohee; Yang, Jae-Yeon; Shin, Chan Soo, E-mail: csshin@snu.ac.kr

2009-05-15

{alpha}- and {beta}-Catenin link cadherins to the actin-based cytoskeleton at adherens junctions and regulate cell-cell adhesion. Although roles of cadherins and canonical Wnt-/{beta}-catenin-signaling in osteoblastic differentiation have been extensively studied, the role of {alpha}-catenin is not known. Murine embryonic mesenchymal stem cells, C3H10T1/2 cells, were transduced with retrovirus encoding {alpha}-catenin (MSCV-{alpha}-catenin-HA-GFP). In the presence of Wnt-3A conditioned medium or osteogenic medium ({beta}-glycerol phosphate and ascorbic acid), cells overexpressing {alpha}-catenin showed enhanced osteoblastic differentiation as measured by alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining and ALP activity assay compared to cells transduced with empty virus (MSCV-GFP). In addition, mRNA expression of osteocalcin and Runx2more » was significantly increased compared to control. Cell aggregation assay revealed that {alpha}-catenin overexpression has significantly increased cell-cell aggregation. However, cellular {beta}-catenin levels (total, cytoplasmic-nuclear ratio) and {beta}-catenin-TCF/LEF transcriptional activity did not change by overexpression of {alpha}-catenin. Knock-down of {alpha}-catenin using siRNA decreased osteoblastic differentiation as measured by ALP assay. These results suggest that {alpha}-catenin overexpression increases osteoblastic differentiation by increasing cell-cell adhesion rather than Wnt-/{beta}-catenin-signaling.« less

Numerical studies on alpha production from high energy proton beam interaction with Boron

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moustaizis, S. D.; Lalousis, P.; Hora, H.; Korn, G.

2017-05-01

Numerical investigations on high energy proton beam interaction with high density Boron plasma allows to simulate conditions concerning the alpha production from recent experimental measurements . The experiments measure the alpha production due to p11B nuclear fusion reactions when a laser-driven high energy proton beam interacts with Boron plasma produced by laser beam interaction with solid Boron. The alpha production and consequently the efficiency of the process depends on the initial proton beam energy, proton beam density, the Boron plasma density and temperature, and their temporal evolution. The main advantage for the p11B nuclear fusion reaction is the production of three alphas with total energy of 8.9 MeV, which could enhance the alpha heating effect and improve the alpha production. This particular effect is termed in the international literature as the alpha avalanche effect. Numerical results using a multi-fluid, global particle and energy balance, code shows the alpha production efficiency as a function of the initial energy of the proton beam, the Boron plasma density, the initial Boron plasma temperature and the temporal evolution of the plasma parameters. The simulations enable us to determine the interaction conditions (proton beam - B plasma) for which the alpha heating effect becomes important.

Heterogeneity of cellular proliferation within transitional cell carcinoma: correlation of protein kinase C alpha/betaI expression and activity.

PubMed

Aaltonen, Vesa; Koivunen, Jussi; Laato, Matti; Peltonen, Juha

2006-07-01

A total of 18 histological samples containing both transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) and normal urothelial epithelium were analyzed for protein kinase C (PKC)-alpha and -betaI expression, and for their phosphorylated substrates. The results showed an increased expression of PKC-alpha in 13 out of 18 samples and -betaI in 11 out of 18 TCC samples when compared with normal urothelium. In addition, 11 out of 18 of the TCC tumors displayed heterogeneous expression of the PKC isoenzymes, with different levels of immunosignal in different areas of the tumor. Within the same sample, areas of highest PKC isoenzyme expression also showed highest classical PKC activity, as estimated by immunodetection of phosphorylated forms of PKC substrates. The areas of highest expression of PKC-alpha and/or -betaI isoenzymes showed also the highest number of cells positive for Ki67, an indicator of proliferation. Immunofluorescence and Western blotting demonstrated that in cultured TCC cells, PKC-alpha was located in the cytoplasm, whereas PKC-betaI was located primarily in the nucleus as a 65-kDa fragment and in the cytoplasm as a full-size 79-kDa protein. Our results indicate that increased expression of PKC-alpha and -betaI leads to increased total classical PKC kinase activity and suggest that increased activity of the isoenzymes plays a role in accelerated growth of TCC. Furthermore, these results suggest that even in carcinoma tissue, PKC expression and activity are under strict control.

Intraoperative floppy iris and prevalence of intraoperative complications: results from ophthalmic surgery outcomes database.

PubMed

Vollman, David E; Gonzalez-Gonzalez, Luis A; Chomsky, Amy; Daly, Mary K; Baze, Elizabeth; Lawrence, Mary

2014-06-01

To estimate the prevalence of untoward events during cataract surgery with the use of pupillary expansion devices and intraoperative floppy iris (IFIS). Retrospective analysis of 4923 cataract surgery cases from the Veterans Affairs Ophthalmic Surgical Outcomes Data Project. Outcomes from 5 Veterans Affairs medical centers were analyzed, including use of alpha-blockers (both selective and nonselective), IFIS, intraoperative iris trauma, intraoperative iris prolapse, posterior capsular tear, anterior capsule tear, intraoperative vitreous prolapse, and use of pupillary expansion devices. P values were calculated using the χ(2) test. A total of 1254 patients (25.5%) took alpha-blockers preoperatively (selective, 587; nonselective, 627; both, 40). Of these 1254 patients, 428 patients (34.1%) had documented IFIS. However, 75.2% of patients with IFIS (428/569) had taken alpha-blockers preoperatively (P < .00001). A total of 430 patients (8.7%) had a pupillary expansion device used during their cataract surgery, of which 186 patients (43.4%) had IFIS (P < .0001). Eighty-six patients with IFIS had at least 1 intraoperative complication and 39 patients with IFIS had more than 1 intraoperative complication (P < .001). The use of either selective or nonselective alpha-antagonists preoperatively demonstrated a significant risk of IFIS. Nonselective alpha-antagonists caused IFIS at a higher prevalence than previously reported. This study did demonstrate statistically significant increased odds of surgical complications in patients with IFIS vs those without IFIS in all groups (those taking selective and nonselective alpha-antagonists and also those not taking medications). Published by Elsevier Inc.

Effect of chronic hypokalemia on H(+)-K(+)-ATPase expression in rat colon.

PubMed

Codina, J; Pressley, T A; DuBose, T D

1997-01-01

Although the kidney plays the major role in the regulation of systemic K+ homeostasis, the colon also participates substantively in K+ balance. The colon is capable of both K+ absorption and secretion, the magnitude of which can be modulated in response to dietary K+ intake. The H(+)-K(+)-adenosinetriphosphatase (H(+)-K(+)-ATPase) has been proposed as a possible mediator of K+ absorption in distal colon, but inhibitor profiles obtained in recent studies suggest that two, and perhaps more, distinct H(+)-K(+)-ATPase activities may be present in mammalian distal colon. We have developed highly specific probes for the catalytic alpha-subunits of colonic and gastric H(+)-K(+)-ATPase, alpha 1-Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase, and beta-actin, which were used in Northern analysis of total RNA from whole distal colon and stomach obtained from one of three experimental groups of rats: 1) controls, 2) chronic dietary K+ depletion, and 3) chronic metabolic acidosis. The probe for the colonic but not the gastric H(+)-K(+)-ATPase alpha-isoform hybridized to distal colon total RNA in all groups. A significant increase in colonic H(+)-K(+)-ATPase mRNA abundance was observed in response to chronic dietary K+ depletion but not to chronic metabolic acidosis. The alpha 1-isoform of Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase, which is also expressed in distal colon, did not respond consistently to either chronic dietary K+ depletion or chronic metabolic acidosis. The gastric probe did not hybridize to total RNA from distal colon but, as expected, hybridized to total stomach RNA. However, the abundance of gastric H(+)-K(+)-ATPase or Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase in stomach was not altered consistently by either chronic dietary K+ depletion or metabolic acidosis. Under the conditions of this study, it appears that the mRNA encoding the colonic alpha-isoform is upregulated by chronic dietary K+ restriction, a condition shown previously to increase K+ absorption in the distal colon.

Proteome analysis of the cardiac and pericardial tissue of Biomphalaria tenagophila populations susceptible and resistant to Schistosoma mansoni infection.

PubMed

Jannotti-Passos, Liana K; Andrade, Hélida M; Caldeira, Roberta L; Romanha, Alvaro J; Murta, Silvane M F; Chapeaurouge, Donat A; Perales, Jonas; Coelho, Paulo Marcos Z; Carvalho, Omar S

2008-03-01

For a better comprehension of the parasite-host interaction, proteins expressed by the cardiac and pericardial tissues were compared between susceptible (Cabo Frio) and resistant (Taim) Biomphalaria tenagophila populations, challenged (c) and non-challenged (nc) with Schistosoma mansoni. Proteins were separated by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2DE) and stained with Coomassie blue. A total of 146 and 135 spots were observed in Cabo Frio (CFnc) and in Taim (Tnc) non-challenged populations, respectively, whereas 153 spots were detected in both Cabo Frio (CFc) and Taim (Tc) challenged populations. Regarding comparisons between CFnc and CFc, the numbers of exclusive spots obtained were one and nine, respectively, whereas Tnc yielded 17 and Tc eight exclusive spots. By comparing the total of spots in CF (nc+c) with T (nc+c) populations, we obtained: four exclusive spots for CFc; zero for CFnc; four for Tc and; one for Tnc. A quantitative comparison (reason>2.5) of the total spots of CF (nc+c) with T (nc+c) populations allowed us to distinguish five more intense spots for Tc, 14 for Tnc, 15 for CFnc and 11 for CFc. In the CFnc population, two proteins were identified: actin and ATP synthase alpha chain; in the CFc population, four proteins: actin, calmodulin, HSP70, and dehydrogenase; in the Tnc population, five proteins: matrilin, HSP70, actin, ATP synthase alpha chain and intermediate filament of the protein; and in the Tc population, three proteins: actin, alpha-S1 casein and ATP synthase alpha chain. Out of a total of 79 spots, only nine proteins were identified due to the low number of available nucleotide sequences in the GenBank. Nevertheless, knowing proteins regarded as differentially expressed is indispensable for hitherto unidentified genes implicated in B. tenagophila resistance and or susceptibility to S. mansoni infection.

Effect of micromolar Ca2+ on NADH inhibition of bovine kidney alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase complex and possible role of Ca2+ in signal amplification.

PubMed

Lawlis, V B; Roche, T E

1980-11-20

NADH inhibition of bovine kidney alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase complex was compared at 10 microM free Ca2+ or in the absence of Ca2+ (i.e., less than 1.0 nM free Ca2+). In the presence of Ca2+, NADH inhibition was appreciably decreased for a wide range of NADH:NAD+ ratios. A half-maximal decrease in NADH inhibition occurred at slightly less than 1 microM free Ca/+ (as determined with EGTA-Ca buffers). Of necessity this was observed on top of an effect of Ca2+ on the S0.5 for alpha-ketoglutarate which was decreased by Ca2+ with a half-maximal effect at a similar concentration. The effect of Ca2+ on NADH inhibition was not observed in assays of the dihydrolipoyl dehydrogenase component (using dihydrolipoamide as a substrate) or in assays of bovine kidney pyruvate dehydrogenase complex. This indicates that the overall reaction catalyzed by the alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase complex is required to elicit the effect of Ca2+ on NADH inhibition. At a fixed alpha-ketoglutarate concentration (50 microM), removal of Ca2+ reduced the activity of the alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase complex by 8.5-fold (due to an increase in S0.5 for alpha-ketoglutarate) and, in the presence of different NADH:NAD+ ratios, decreased the activity of the complex by 50 to 100-fold. Effects of the phosphate potential (ATP/ADPxPi) or a combination of the phosphate potential and NADH:NAD+ ratio are also described. The possibility that the level of intramitochondrial free Ca/+ serves as a signal amplifier normally coupled to the energy state of mitochondria is discussed.

Perceptual assessment of fricative--stop coarticulation.

PubMed

Repp, B H; Mann, V A

1981-04-01

The perceptual dependence of stop consonants on preceding fricatives [Mann and Repp, J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 69, 548--558 (1981)] was further investigated in two experiments employing both natural and synthetic speech. These experiments consistently replicated our original finding that listeners, report velar stops following [s]. In addition, our data confirmed earlier reports that natural fricative noises (excerpted from utterances of [st alpha], [sk alpha], [(formula: see text)k alpha]) contain cues to the following stop consonants; this was revealed in subjects' identifications of stops from isolated fricative noises and from stimuli consisting of these noises followed by synthetic CV portions drawn from a [t alpha]--[k alpha] continuum. However, these cues in the noise portion could not account for the contextual effect of fricative identity ([formula: see text] versus [sp) on stop perception (more "k" responses following [s]). Rather, this effect seems to be related to a coarticulatory influence of a preceding fricative on stop production; Subjects' responses to excised natural CV portions (with bursts and aspiration removed) were biased towards a relatively more forward place of stop articulation when the CVs had originally been preceded by [s]; and the identification of a preceding ambiguous fricative was biased in the direction of the original fricative context in which a given CV portion had been produced. These findings support an articulatory explanation for the effect of preceding fricatives on stop consonant perception.

Early and progressive sensorimotor anomalies in mice overexpressing wild-type human alpha-synuclein.

PubMed

Fleming, Sheila M; Salcedo, Jonathan; Fernagut, Pierre-Olivier; Rockenstein, Edward; Masliah, Eliezer; Levine, Michael S; Chesselet, Marie-Françoise

2004-10-20

Accumulation of alpha-synuclein in brain is a hallmark of synucleinopathies, neurodegenerative diseases that include Parkinson's disease. Mice overexpressing alpha-synuclein under the Thy-1 promoter (ASO) show abnormal accumulation of alpha-synuclein in cortical and subcortical regions of the brain, including the substantia nigra. We examined the motor deficits in ASO mice with a battery of sensorimotor tests that are sensitive to alterations in the nigrostriatal dopaminergic system. Male wild-type and ASO mice were tested every 2 months for 8 months for motor performance and coordination on a challenging beam, inverted grid, and pole, sensorimotor deficits in an adhesive removal test, spontaneous activity in a cylinder, and gait. Fine motor skills were assessed by the ability to grasp cotton from a bin. ASO mice displayed significant impairments in motor performance and coordination and a reduction in spontaneous activity as early as 2 months of age. Motor performance and coordination impairments became progressively worse with age and sensorimotor deficits appeared at 6 months. Fine motor skills were altered at 4 months and worsened at 8 months. These data indicate that overexpression of alpha-synuclein induced an early and progressive behavioral phenotype that can be detected in multiple tests of sensorimotor function. These behavioral deficits provide a useful way to assess novel drug therapy in genetic models of synucleinopathies.

Structural complex of sterol 14[alpha]-demethylase (CYP51) with 14[alpha]-methylenecyclopropyl-[delta]7-24, 25-dihydrolanosterol[S

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

Hargrove, Tatiana Y.; Wawrzak, Zdzislaw; Liu, Jialin

2012-06-28

Sterol 14{alpha}-demethylase (CYP51) that catalyzes the removal of the 14{alpha}-methyl group from the sterol nucleus is an essential enzyme in sterol biosynthesis, a primary target for clinical and agricultural antifungal azoles and an emerging target for antitrypanosomal chemotherapy. Here, we present the crystal structure of Trypanosoma (T) brucei CYP51 in complex with the substrate analog 14{alpha}-methylenecyclopropyl-{Delta}7-24,25-dihydrolanosterol (MCP). This sterol binds tightly to all protozoan CYP51s and acts as a competitive inhibitor of F105-containing (plant-like) T. brucei and Leishmania (L) infantum orthologs, but it has a much stronger, mechanism-based inhibitory effect on I105-containing (animal/fungi-like) T. cruzi CYP51. Depicting substrate orientation inmore » the conserved CYP51 binding cavity, the complex specifies the roles of the contact amino acid residues and sheds new light on CYP51 substrate specificity. It also provides an explanation for the effect of MCP on T. cruzi CYP51. Comparison with the ligand-free and azole-bound structures supports the notion of structural rigidity as the characteristic feature of the CYP51 substrate binding cavity, confirming the enzyme as an excellent candidate for structure-directed design of new drugs, including mechanism-based substrate analog inhibitors.« less

Glutathione regulation of redox-sensitive signals in tumor necrosis factor-{alpha}-induced vascular endothelial dysfunction

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

Tsou, T.-C.; Yeh, S.C.; Tsai, F.-Y.

2007-06-01

We investigated the regulatory role of glutathione in tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-{alpha})-induced vascular endothelial dysfunction as evaluated by using vascular endothelial adhesion molecule expression and monocyte-endothelial monolayer binding. Since TNF-{alpha} induces various biological effects on vascular cells, TNF-{alpha} dosage could be a determinant factor directing vascular cells into different biological fates. Based on the adhesion molecule expression patterns responding to different TNF-{alpha} concentrations, we adopted the lower TNF-{alpha} (0.2 ng/ml) to rule out the possible involvement of other TNF-{alpha}-induced biological effects. Inhibition of glutathione synthesis by L-buthionine-(S,R)-sulfoximine (BSO) resulted in down-regulations of the TNF-{alpha}-induced adhesion molecule expression and monocyte-endothelial monolayermore » binding. BSO attenuated the TNF-{alpha}-induced nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-{kappa}B) activation, however, with no detectable effect on AP-1 and its related mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs). Deletion of an AP-1 binding site in intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) promoter totally abolished its constitutive promoter activity and its responsiveness to TNF-{alpha}. Inhibition of ERK, JNK, or NF-{kappa}B attenuates TNF-{alpha}-induced ICAM-1 promoter activation and monocyte-endothelial monolayer binding. Our study indicates that TNF-{alpha} induces adhesion molecule expression and monocyte-endothelial monolayer binding mainly via activation of NF-{kappa}B in a glutathione-sensitive manner. We also demonstrated that intracellular glutathione does not modulate the activation of MAPKs and/or their downstream AP-1 induced by lower TNF-{alpha}. Although AP-1 activation by the lower TNF-{alpha} was not detected in our systems, we could not rule out the possible involvement of transiently activated MAPKs/AP-1 in the regulation of TNF-{alpha}-induced adhesion molecule expression.« less

Deposits in artificial corneas: risk factors and prevention.

PubMed

Hicks, Celia R; Chirila, Traian V; Werner, Liliana; Crawford, Geoffrey J; Apple, David J; Constable, Ian J

2004-04-01

To identify risk factors for calcium deposition and pigmented staining within AlphaCor artificial corneas. Retrospective analysis of data from 72 AlphaCor implantations was conducted. Histological analysis of explants was performed. Eight cases of either intraoptic calcium or pigment deposition occurred in AlphaCor patients between 2.5 and 21 months after implantation. Four cases had diffuse white deposits, confirmed to be calcium and associated with prior coadministration of topical steroids and beta-blockers. The other four cases had brown deposits, associated with cigarette smoking and topical levobunolol. These findings led to changes in patient management protocols, surgeon training and patient information so as to minimize the risk of further occurrences. No further cases of white deposition have occurred after warning surgeons of the risk associated with certain topical therapy combinations. The risk of brown staining may be difficult to remove completely as it appears that environmental exposure to chemicals may cause deposition in addition to personal smoking habits and topical medications.

Isolation of tungsten and tantalum isotopes without supports from. cap alpha. -particle-irradiated hafnium targets

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

Gasita, S.M.; Iota, B.Z.; Malachkov, A.G.

1985-11-01

An extraction procedure has been developed for successive isolation of tungsten (/sup 178/W and /sup 181/W) and tantalum (/sup 179/Ta and /sup 182/Ta) isotopes without supports from ..cap alpha..particle-irradiated hafnium targets. The target, irradiated on a cyclotron, is dissolved in hydrofluoric acid. Tantalum isotopes are extracted with tributyl phosphate (TBP) from 1-5 M HF and are then reextracted with a 1:1 ammonia solution, and hydrofluoric acid is removed by heating. Tungsten isotopes are extracted with a chloroform solution or N-benzoyl-N-phenylhydroxylamine (BPHA) from 11-12 M H/sub 2/SO/sub 4/ or ..cap alpha..-benzoin oxime from 4.5-5.5 M H/sub 2/SO/sub 4/ and are thenmore » reextracted with a l:l ammonia solution. The yield of tungsten isotopes is not less than 95%, and the content of radioactive impurities of other isotopes is not more than 0.1%.« less

[Therapy of malignant melanoma at the stage of distant metastasis].

PubMed

Garbe, C; Eigentler, T K

2004-02-01

Treatment of melanoma in the stage of distant metastasis aims on palliation and achievement of durable tumor remission with prolongation of survival. As long as metastasis is confined to one organ system and is removable, surgery remains the treatment of first choice. In limited metastasis radiotherapy may likewise be indicated, particularly in bone and brain metastasis. More extensive metastasis should be treated by chemotherapy or chemoimmunotherapy. Monochemotherapy with dacarbazine, temozolomide, fotemustine and vindesine or its combinations with interferon-alpha are currently preferred. Polychemotherapy or its combinations with interferon-alpha and interleukin-2 are suitable to produce higher response rates but failed to prolong survival. As these treatments are associated with substantially higher toxicity they have been widely abandoned. Combined treatment with dacarbazine and interferon-alpha obtain tumor responses or stable disease in 40-50% and objective tumor remissions in 15-20% of patients. Effective cancer vaccination strategies and blockade of melanoma specific target molecules are currently developed as new treatment options.

Physical and catalytic properties of alpha-amylase from Tenebrio molitor L. larvae.

PubMed Central

Buonocore, V; Poerio, E; Silano, V; Tomasi, M

1976-01-01

The amylase from Tenebrio molitor L. larvae (yellow mealworm) was characterized according to a number of its molecular and catalytic properties. The insect amylase is a single polypeptide chain with mol.wt. 68000, an isoelectric point of 4.0 and a very low content of sulphur-containing amino acids. The enzyme is a Ca2+-protein and behaves as an alpha-amylase. Removal of Ca2+ by exhaustive dialysis against water causes the irreversible inactivation of the enzyme. Moreover, the enzyme is activated by the presence in the assay mixture of Cl-, or some other inorganic anions that are less effective than Cl-, and is inhibited by F-. Optimal conditions of pH and temperature for the enzymic activity are 5.8 and 37 degrees C. The insect amylase exhibits an identical kinetic behaviour toward starch, amylose and amylopectin; the enzyme hydrolyses glycogen with a higher affinity constant. Compared with the non-insect alpha-amylases described in the literature, Tenebrio molitor amylase has a lower affinity for starch. PMID:942374

5Alpha-Reduced Steroids Are Major Metabolites in the Early Equine Embryo Proper and Its Membranes.

PubMed

Raeside, James I; Christie, Heather L; Betteridge, Keith J

2015-09-01

Steroid production and metabolism by early conceptuses are very important for the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy in horses. Our earlier work suggested the possible formation of 5alpha-reduced steroids in equine conceptuses. We have now demonstrated the formation of 5alpha-reduced metabolites of androstenedione, testosterone, and progesterone by the embryo and its membranes. A total of 44 conceptuses were collected from 26 mares between 20 and 31 days of pregnancy. Tissues from the embryo proper and from the separated components of the conceptus (bilaminar and trilaminar trophoblast, allantois) were incubated with tritium-labeled substrates. 5Alpha-reduced metabolites (5alpha-dihydro- and 3beta,5alpha-tetrahydro- steroids) as radiolabeled products were identified from a series of chromatographic steps using four solvent systems for high-performance liquid chromatography. Use of a 5alpha-reductase inhibitor confirmed the metabolites were indeed 5alpha-reduced steroids. For the embryo, the only products from androstenedione were 5alpha-dihydroandrostenedione and 3beta,5alpha-tetrahydroandrostenedione, with no evidence of more polar metabolites; there was some 3beta,5alpha-tetrahydrotestosterone but no 5alpha-dihydrotestosterone from testosterone, and formation of androstenedione was followed by the production of 5alpha-dihydroandrostenedione and 3beta,5alpha-tetrahydroandrostenedione. The major 5alpha-reduced product from progesterone was 3beta,5alpha-tetrahydroprogesterone, with lesser amounts of 5alpha-dihydroprogesterone. For the membranes, reductions to tetrahydro, 5alpha-reduced steroids were prominent in most instances, but also present were considerable amounts of products more polar than the substrates. The well-recognized activity of some 5alpha-reduced steroids--for example, 5alpha-dihydrotestosterone in male sexual differentiation--provokes interest in their even earlier appearance, as seen in this study, and suggests a possible role for them in early embryonic development in horses and, more generally, in other species. © 2015 by the Society for the Study of Reproduction, Inc.

[Determination of alpha-gliadin content in gluten-containing and gluten-free heated food].

PubMed

Meier, P; Windemann, H; Baumgartner, E

1984-05-01

The amount of alpha-gliadin and whole gliadin in bread dough after heating at temperatures of 50-100 degrees C was determined by ELISA. At temperatures above 80 degrees C the amount which could be found was greatly reduced. In pasta foods containing wheat (with a max. drying temperature of 75 degrees C) alpha-gliadin could be determined totally but in wheat bread (crust and crumb) only 0.5-40% of the content in the original flour was found. The results of an analysis of "gluten-free" pasta foods on the market and the amounts of alpha-gliadin found are discussed in relation to the recommendations of the Codex alimentarius (WHO).

Synthesis of peptide .alpha.-thioesters

DOEpatents

Camarero, Julio A [Livermore, CA; Mitchell, Alexander R [Livermore, CA; De Yoreo, James J [Clayton, CA

2008-08-19

Disclosed herein is a new method for the solid phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) of C-terminal peptide .alpha. thioesters using Fmoc/t-Bu chemistry. This method is based on the use of an aryl hydrazine linker, which is totally stable to conditions required for Fmoc-SPPS. When the peptide synthesis has been completed, activation of the linker is achieved by mild oxidation. The oxidation step converts the acyl-hydrazine group into a highly reactive acyl-diazene intermediate which reacts with an .alpha.-amino acid alkylthioester (H-AA-SR) to yield the corresponding peptide .alpha.-thioester in good yield. A variety of peptide thioesters, cyclic peptides and a fully functional Src homology 3 (SH3) protein domain have been successfully prepared.

Ameliorating pathogenesis by removing an exon containing a missense mutation: a potential exon-skipping therapy for laminopathies.

PubMed

Scharner, J; Figeac, N; Ellis, J A; Zammit, P S

2015-06-01

Exon skipping, as a therapy to restore a reading frame or switch protein isoforms, is under clinical trial. We hypothesised that removing an in-frame exon containing a mutation could also improve pathogenic phenotypes. Our model is laminopathies: incurable tissue-specific degenerative diseases associated with LMNA mutations. LMNA encodes A-type lamins, that together with B-type lamins, form the nuclear lamina. Lamins contain an alpha-helical central rod domain composed of multiple heptad repeats. Eliminating LMNA exon 3 or 5 removes six heptad repeats, so shortens, but should not otherwise significantly alter, the alpha-helix. Human Lamin A or Lamin C with a deletion corresponding to amino acids encoded by exon 5 (Lamin A/C-Δ5) localised normally in murine lmna-null cells, rescuing both nuclear shape and endogenous Lamin B1/emerin distribution. However, Lamin A carrying pathogenic mutations in exon 3 or 5, or Lamin A/C-Δ3, did not. Furthermore, Lamin A/C-Δ5 was not deleterious to wild-type cells, unlike the other Lamin A mutants including Lamin A/C-Δ3. Thus Lamin A/C-Δ5 function as effectively as wild-type Lamin A/C and better than mutant versions. Antisense oligonucleotides skipped LMNA exon 5 in human cells, demonstrating the possibility of treating certain laminopathies with this approach. This proof-of-concept is the first to report the therapeutic potential of exon skipping for diseases arising from missense mutations.

Reduced levels of TNF alpha in hypercholesterolemic individuals after treatment with pravastatin for 8 weeks.

PubMed

Solheim, S; Seljeflot, I; Arnesen, H; Eritsland, J; Eikvar, L

2001-08-01

cellular adhesion molecules (CAMs) expressed on the endothelial surface play a key role in the inflammatory process of atherosclerosis, and increased expression of CAMs has been shown in hypercholesterolemic individuals. The expression of CAMs is mediated by several cytokines including tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF alpha) and interleukin 6 (IL-6). The aim of the present study was to assess the influence of pravastatin 40 mg per day on selected soluble CAMs; intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1), vascular cellular adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1), E-selectin, P-selectin and some circulating markers of inflammation; C-reactive protein (CRP) and the cytokines TNF alpha and IL-6. 40 non-diabetic men, age below 70 years, with serum total cholesterol 6--10 mmol/l combined with HDL-cholesterol < or =1.2 mmol/l were included. The study was randomized, double blinded, placebo controlled, cross over designed with 8 weeks intervention periods. Fasting blood samples were drawn after 8 and 16 weeks. significant reduction of total cholesterol was achieved after treatment with pravastatin (7.8 on placebo vs. 5.7 mmol/l on pravastatin). TNF alpha was significantly reduced after treatment with pravastatin (1.33 on placebo vs. 1.10 pg/ml on pravastatin, P=0.032), whereas no differences in the levels of the measured sCAMs, CRP and IL-6 were found. Subgroup analysis among smokers versus non-smokers showed a significant reduction in the level of TNF alpha only among the smokers. hypercholesterolemic individuals treated with pravastatin 40 mg per day for 8 weeks showed a statistically significant reduction in the levels of TNF alpha as compared with placebo.

Effect of simulated weightlessness on the expression of Cbfα1 induced by fluid shear stress in MG-63 osteosarcoma cells.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Z.; Zhang, S.; Wang, B.; Sun, X. Q.

Objective The role of mechanical load in the functional regulation of osteoblasts becomes an emphasis in osseous biomechanical researches recently This study was aim to explore the effect of flow shear stress on the expression of Cbf alpha 1 in human osteosarcoma cells and to survey its functional alteration in simulated weightlessness Method After cultured for 72 h in two different gravitational environments i e 1G terrestrial gravitational condition and simulated weightlessness condition human osteosarcoma cells MG-63 were treated with 0 5 Pa or 1 5 Pa fluid shear stress FSS in a flow chamber for 15 30 60 min respectively The total RNA in cells was isolated Transcription PCR analysis was made to examine the gene expression of Cbf alpha 1 And the total protein of cells was extracted and the expression of Cbf alpha 1 protein was detected by means of Western Blotting Results MG-63 cultured in 1G condition reacted to FSS treatment with an enhanced expression of Cbf alpha 1 Compared with no FSS control group Cbf alpha 1 mRNA and protein expression increased significantly at 30 and 60 min with the treatment of FSS P 0 01 And there was remarkable difference on the Cbf alpha 1 mRNA and protein expression between the treatments of 0 5 Pa and 1 5 Pa FSS at 30 min or 60 min P 0 01 As to the osteoblasts cultured in simulated weightlessness by using clinostat the expression of Cbf alpha 1 was significantly different between 1G and simulated weightlessness conditions at each test time P 0 05 Compared with no FSS

Characterization of the translation products of the major mRNA species from rabbit lactating mammary glands and construction of bacterial recombinants containing casein and alpha-lactalbumin complementary DNA.

PubMed Central

Suard, Y M; Tosi, M; Kraehenbuhl, J P

1982-01-01

Total cytoplasmic polyadenylated RNA from lactating rabbit mammary glands was analysed on methylmercury hydroxide-agarose gels. The size of the most abundant mRNA species ranged between 0.5 and 5.0 kb (kilobases), with major bands at 0.55, 0.84, 0.92, 1.18 and 2.4 kb and discrete minor bands of 1.5, 1.7, 3.0 and 3.9 kb. Translation in vitro of total mRNA with [3H]leucine or [35S]methionine as precursor yielded four major bands with apparent Mr values of 16 000, 25 000, 26 000 and 29 000. The four protein bands were identified by immunoprecipitation by using specific antisera as alpha-lactalbumin and x-, kappa- and alpha-caseins, respectively. Labelling with (35S]cysteine followed by immunoprecipitation with anti-transferrin or anti-alpha-lactalbumin sera allowed the identification of two whey proteins. Translated transferrin was resolved as an 80 000-dalton band and alpha-lactalbumin appeared as a 16 000-dalton protein. A library of recombinant plasmids containing cDNA (complementary DNA) sequences representing cytoplasmic polyadenylated RNA was used to isolate clones for the major rabbit caseins and alpha-lactalbumin. A preliminary characterization of these cDNA clones was achieved by colony hybridization with enriched RNA fractions as probes. Positive clones were identified by use of hybrid-promoted translation in vitro and immunoprecipitation of the translation products. The corresponding mRNA species were further identified by hybridizing RNA blots with radioactively labelled cDNA clones. We present the restriction map of alpha-casein and kappa-casein cDNA clones. Images Fig. 1. Fig. 2. Fig. 3. Fig. 4. Fig. 5. Fig. 6. PMID:6123313

Plasma Treatment to Remove Carbon from Indium UV Filters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Greer, Harold F.; Nikzad, Shouleh; Beasley, Matthew; Gantner, Brennan

2012-01-01

The sounding rocket experiment FIRE (Far-ultraviolet Imaging Rocket Experiment) will improve the science community fs ability to image a spectral region hitherto unexplored astronomically. The imaging band of FIRE (.900 to 1,100 Angstroms) will help fill the current wavelength imaging observation hole existing from approximately equal to 620 Angstroms to the GALEX band near 1,350 Angstroms. FIRE is a single-optic prime focus telescope with a 1.75-m focal length. The bandpass of 900 to 1100 Angstroms is set by a combination of the mirror coating, the indium filter in front of the detector, and the salt coating on the front of the detector fs microchannel plates. Critical to this is the indium filter that must reduce the flux from Lymanalpha at 1,216 Angstroms by a minimum factor of 10(exp -4). The cost of this Lyman-alpha removal is that the filter is not fully transparent at the desired wavelengths of 900 to 1,100 Angstroms. Recently, in a project to improve the performance of optical and solar blind detectors, JPL developed a plasma process capable of removing carbon contamination from indium metal. In this work, a low-power, low-temperature hydrogen plasma reacts with the carbon contaminants in the indium to form methane, but leaves the indium metal surface undisturbed. This process was recently tested in a proof-of-concept experiment with a filter provided by the University of Colorado. This initial test on a test filter showed improvement in transmission from 7 to 9 percent near 900 with no process optimization applied. Further improvements in this performance were readily achieved to bring the total transmission to 12% with optimization to JPL's existing process.

Repetitive Prostatic Massage and Drug Therapy as an Alternative to Transurethral Resection of the Prostate

PubMed Central

Hennenfent, Bradley R.; Lazarte, Alfred R.; Feliciano, Antonio E.

2006-01-01

We describe 5 men with urinary retention and indwelling urethral catheters who were treated with repetitive prostatic massage, antimicrobials, alpha blockers, and – in 2 cases – finasteride. We retrospectively reviewed the charts of all patients presenting to the genitourinary clinic with indwelling urinary catheters during a 1-year period. Five men (mean age, 70 years; range, 64–76; SD 4.47) presented to the Manila Genitourinary Clinic (Cebu Branch), Cebu, Philippines, wearing indwelling urinary catheters placed for acute urinary retention. Urologists had told all 5 men that they needed to undergo transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). The Cebu genitourinary physician removed the catheters, instituted repetitive prostatic massage, and diagnosed all 5 patients with prostatitis. All 5 patients received repetitive prostatic massage, alpha-blocker medication, and antibiotic therapy, whereas finasteride was given to 2 patients. During treatment, statistically significant improvements occurred in global symptom severity scores, urethral white blood cell (WBC) counts, WBC counts of the expressed prostatic secretions (EPS), EPS red blood cell (RBC) counts, urinary WBC counts, and urinary RBC counts. Fluorescing Chlamydia elementary bodies disappeared in 3 of the 4 positive patients by the end of treatment. (One patient was not available for retesting.) Repetitive prostatic massage, antimicrobial therapy, alpha-blocker therapy, and – in 2 cases – finasteride enabled catheter removal in all 5 men (100%) as well as successful urination in all 5 men (100%). TURP has been prevented for a mean of 2.53 years (range, 16–38 months). PMID:17415302

A rapid method for the sequential separation of polonium, plutonium, americium and uranium in drinking water.

PubMed

Lemons, B; Khaing, H; Ward, A; Thakur, P

2018-06-01

A new sequential separation method for the determination of polonium and actinides (Pu, Am and U) in drinking water samples has been developed that can be used for emergency response or routine water analyses. For the first time, the application of TEVA chromatography column in the sequential separation of polonium and plutonium has been studied. This method utilizes a rapid Fe +3 co-precipitation step to remove matrix interferences, followed by plutonium oxidation state adjustment to Pu 4+ and an incubation period of ~ 1 h at 50-60 °C to allow Po 2+ to oxidize to Po 4+ . The polonium and plutonium were then separated on a TEVA column, while separation of americium from uranium was performed on a TRU column. After separation, polonium was micro-precipitated with copper sulfide (CuS), while actinides were micro co-precipitated using neodymium fluoride (NdF 3 ) for counting by the alpha spectrometry. The method is simple, robust and can be performed quickly with excellent removal of interferences, high chemical recovery and very good alpha peak resolution. The efficiency and reliability of the procedures were tested by using spiked samples. The effect of several transition metals (Cu 2+ , Pb 2+ , Fe 3+ , Fe 2+ , and Ni 2+ ) on the performance of this method were also assessed to evaluate the potential matrix effects. Studies indicate that presence of up to 25 mg of these cations in the samples had no adverse effect on the recovery or the resolution of polonium alpha peaks. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Characterization of large area ZnS(Ag) detector for gross alpha and beta activity measurements in tap water plants

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

Lunardon, M.; Cester, D.; Mistura, G.

2015-07-01

In this work we present the characterization of a large area 200 x 200 mm{sup 2} EJ-444 scintillation detector to be used for monitoring gross alpha and beta activity in tap water plants. Specific tests were performed to determine the best setup to readout the light from the detector side in order to have the possibility to stack many detectors and get a compact device with total active area of the order of 1 m{sup 2}. Alpha/Beta discrimination, efficiency and homogeneity tests were carried out with alpha and beta sources. Background from ambient radioactivity was measured as well. Alpha/beta real-timemore » monitoring in drinking water is a goal of the EU project TAWARA{sub R}TM. (authors)« less

The use of QLF to quantify in vitro whitening in a product testing model.

PubMed

Pretty, I A; Edgar, W M; Higham, S M

2001-11-24

Professional and consumer interest in whitening products continues to increase against a background of both increased oral health awareness and demand for cosmetic procedures. In the current legal climate, few dentists are providing 'in-office' whitening treatments, and thus many patients turn to home-use products. The most common of these are the whitening toothpastes. Researchers are keen to quantify the effectiveness of such products through clinically relevant trials. Previous studies examining whitening products have employed a variety of stained substrates to monitor stain removal. This study aimed to quantify the removal of stain from human enamel using a new device, quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF). The experimental design follows that of a product-testing model. A total of 11 previously extracted molar teeth were coated with transparent nail varnish leaving an exposed window of enamel. The sound, exposed enamel was subject to a staining regime of human saliva, chlorhexidine and tea. Each of the eleven teeth was subjected to serial exposures of a positive control (Bocasan), a negative control (water) and a test product (Yotuel toothpaste). Following each two-minute exposure QLF images of the teeth were taken (a total of 5 applications). Following completion of one test solution, the teeth were cleaned, re-stained and the procedure repeated with the next solution. QLF images were stored on a PC and analysed by a blinded single examiner. The deltaQ value at 5% threshold was reported. ANOVA and paired t-tests were used to analyse the data. The study confirmed the ability of QLF to longitudinally quantify stain reduction from human enamel. The reliability of the technique in relation to positive and negative test controls was proven. The positive control had a significantly (alpha = 0.05) higher stain removal efficacy than water (p = 0.023) and Yotuel (p = 0.046). Yotuel was more effective than water (p = 0.023). The research community, the practicing clinician and the consumer all require sound product evaluation data. The use of human enamel specimens may offer more relevant clinical data. QLF has been designed as an in vivo device. Further development of the technique should permit in vivo clinical whitening trials.

Cardiac Alpha1-Adrenergic Receptors: Novel Aspects of Expression, Signaling Mechanisms, Physiologic Function, and Clinical Importance

PubMed Central

O’Connell, Timothy D.; Jensen, Brian C.; Baker, Anthony J.

2014-01-01

Adrenergic receptors (AR) are G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) that have a crucial role in cardiac physiology in health and disease. Alpha1-ARs signal through Gαq, and signaling through Gq, for example, by endothelin and angiotensin receptors, is thought to be detrimental to the heart. In contrast, cardiac alpha1-ARs mediate important protective and adaptive functions in the heart, although alpha1-ARs are only a minor fraction of total cardiac ARs. Cardiac alpha1-ARs activate pleiotropic downstream signaling to prevent pathologic remodeling in heart failure. Mechanisms defined in animal and cell models include activation of adaptive hypertrophy, prevention of cardiac myocyte death, augmentation of contractility, and induction of ischemic preconditioning. Surprisingly, at the molecular level, alpha1-ARs localize to and signal at the nucleus in cardiac myocytes, and, unlike most GPCRs, activate “inside-out” signaling to cause cardioprotection. Contrary to past opinion, human cardiac alpha1-AR expression is similar to that in the mouse, where alpha1-AR effects are seen most convincingly in knockout models. Human clinical studies show that alpha1-blockade worsens heart failure in hypertension and does not improve outcomes in heart failure, implying a cardioprotective role for human alpha1-ARs. In summary, these findings identify novel functional and mechanistic aspects of cardiac alpha1-AR function and suggest that activation of cardiac alpha1-AR might be a viable therapeutic strategy in heart failure. PMID:24368739

Reliability and validity assessment of gastrointestinal dystemperaments questionnaire: a novel scale in Persian traditional medicine

PubMed Central

Hoseinzadeh, Hamidreza; Taghipour, Ali; Yousefi, Mahdi

2018-01-01

Background Development of a questionnaire based on the resources of Persian traditional medicine seems necessary. One of the problems faced by practitioners of traditional medicine is the different opinions regarding the diagnosis of general temperament or temperament of member. One of the reasons is the lack of validity tools, and it has led to difficulties in training the student of traditional medicine and the treatment of patients. The differences in the detection methods, have given rise to several treatment methods. Objective The present study aimed to develop a questionnaire and standard software for diagnosis of gastrointestinal dystemperaments. Methods The present research is a tool developing study which included 8 stages of developing the items, determining the statements based on items, assessing the face validity, assessing the content validity, assessing the reliability, rating the items, developing a software for calculation of the total score of the questionnaire named GDS v.1.1, and evaluating the concurrent validity using statistical tests including Cronbach’s alpha coefficient, Cohen’s kappa coefficient. Results Based on the results, 112 notes including 62 symptoms were extracted from resources, and 58 items were obtained from in-person interview sessions with a panel of experts. A statement was selected for each item and, after merging a number of statements, a total of 49 statements were finally obtained. By calculating the score of statement impact and determining the content validity, respectively, 6 and 10 other items were removed from the list of statements. Standardized Cronbach’s alpha for this questionnaire was obtained 0.795 and its concurrent validity was equal to 0.8. Conclusion A quantitative tool was developed for diagnosis and examination of gastrointestinal dystemperaments. The developed questionnaire is adequately reliable and valid for this purpose. In addition, the software can be used for clinical diagnosis. PMID:29629060

Ionospheric Absorption on 1539 Khz in Relation to Solar Ionizing Radiation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Boska, J.

1984-01-01

Radio wave absorption data on 1539 kHz for the summer period of 1978 to 1980 are considered in relation to variations of solar X-ray and L-alpha radiation. It is shown that under non-flare conditions L-alpha dominates in controlling absorption and that X-rays contribute about 10% to the total absorption. Optimum regression equations show that absorption is proportional to the m-th power of ionizing flux where m 1. The role of correcting L-alpha values, measured by the AE-E satellite, is discussed.

The evaluation of uncertainty in low-level LSC measurements of water samples.

PubMed

Rusconi, R; Forte, M; Caresana, M; Bellinzona, S; Cazzaniga, M T; Sgorbati, G

2006-01-01

The uncertainty in measurements of gross alpha and beta activities in water samples by liquid scintillation counting with alpha/beta discrimination has been evaluated considering the problems typical of low-level measurements of environmental samples. The use of a pulse shape analysis device to discriminate alpha and beta events introduces a correlation between some of the input quantities, and it has to be considered. Main contributors to total uncertainty have been assessed by specifically designed experimental tests. Results have been fully examined and discussed.

Radium-226 and radium-228 in shallow ground water, southern New Jersey

USGS Publications Warehouse

Szabo, Zoltan; dePaul, Vincent T.

1998-01-01

Concentrations of total radium (the sum of radium-226 and radium-228) and gross alpha-particle activities in drinking water that exceed the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) are known to cause cancer. Results of investigations by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) in cooperation with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) indicate that concentrations of total radium in water samples from 33 percent of 170 wells in the Kirkwood-Cohansey aquifer system in southern New Jersey exceeded the MCL of 5 pCi/L (picocuries per liter) (fig. 1). Wells containing water in which concentrations of total radium were greater than the MCL typically are found where the Bridgeton Formation crops out, in or near an agricultural area, where ground water is acidic (pH less than 5), and where nitrate concentrations generally exceed 5 mg/L (milligrams per liter). Leaching of nitrogen, calcium, and magnesium from agricultural chemicals (fertilizer, lime) applied to cropland may increase the mobility of radium in ground water. Gross alphaparticle activities exceeded the USEPA MCL of 15 pCi/L in water from 14 percent of 127 wells. A statistically significant 2:1 ratio between gross alpha-particle activity and concentration of total radium indicates that gross alpha-particle activity can be used as a screening tool to predict the presence of water that may have a high total-radium concentration.

Human dermatosparaxis: a form of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome that results from failure to remove the amino-terminal propeptide of type I procollagen.

PubMed

Smith, L T; Wertelecki, W; Milstone, L M; Petty, E M; Seashore, M R; Braverman, I M; Jenkins, T G; Byers, P H

1992-08-01

Dermatosparaxis is a recessively inherited connective-tissue disorder that results from lack of the activity of type I procollagen N-proteinase, the enzyme that removes the amino-terminal propeptides from type I procollagen. Initially identified in cattle more than 20 years ago, the disorder was subsequently characterized in sheep, cats, and dogs. Affected animals have fragile skin, lax joints, and often die prematurely because of sepsis following avulsion of portions of skin. We recently identified two children with soft, lax, and fragile skin, which, when examined by transmission electron microscopy, contained the twisted, ribbon-like collagen fibrils characteristic of dermatosparaxis. Skin extracts from one child contained collagen precursors with amino-terminal extensions. Cultured fibroblasts from both children failed to cleave the amino-terminal propeptides from the pro alpha 1(I) and pro alpha 2(I) chains in type I procollagen molecules. Extracts of normal cells cleaved to collagen, the type I procollagen synthesized by cells from both children, demonstrating that the enzyme, not the substrate, was defective. These findings distinguish dermatosparaxis from Ehlers-Danlos syndrome type VII, which results from substrate mutations that prevent proteolytic processing of type I procollagen molecules.

Rapid method to determine 226Ra in steel samples

DOE PAGES

Maxwell, Sherrod L.; Culligan, Brian; Hutchison, Jay B.; ...

2017-09-22

The rapid measurement of 226Ra in steel samples is very important in the event of a radiological emergency. 226Ra (T 1/2 = 1600 y) is a natural radionuclide present in the environment and a highly toxic alpha-emitter. Due to its long life and tendency to concentrate in bones, 226Ra ingestion or inhalation can lead to significant committed dose to individuals. A new method for the determination of 226Ra in steel samples has been developed at the Savannah River Environmental Laboratory. The new method employs a rugged acid digestion method that includes hydrofluoric acid, followed by a single precipitation step tomore » rapidly preconcentrate the radium and remove most of the dissolved steel sample matrix. Radium is then separated using a combination of cation exchange and extraction chromatography, and 226Ra is measured by alpha spectrometry. This approach has a sample preparation time of ~ 8 h for steel samples, has a very high tracer yield (> 88%), and removes interferences effectively. A 133Ba yield tracer is used so that samples can be counted immediately following the separation method, avoiding lengthy ingrowth times that are required in other methods.« less

Rapid method to determine 226Ra in steel samples

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

Maxwell, Sherrod L.; Culligan, Brian; Hutchison, Jay B.

The rapid measurement of 226Ra in steel samples is very important in the event of a radiological emergency. 226Ra (T 1/2 = 1600 y) is a natural radionuclide present in the environment and a highly toxic alpha-emitter. Due to its long life and tendency to concentrate in bones, 226Ra ingestion or inhalation can lead to significant committed dose to individuals. A new method for the determination of 226Ra in steel samples has been developed at the Savannah River Environmental Laboratory. The new method employs a rugged acid digestion method that includes hydrofluoric acid, followed by a single precipitation step tomore » rapidly preconcentrate the radium and remove most of the dissolved steel sample matrix. Radium is then separated using a combination of cation exchange and extraction chromatography, and 226Ra is measured by alpha spectrometry. This approach has a sample preparation time of ~ 8 h for steel samples, has a very high tracer yield (> 88%), and removes interferences effectively. A 133Ba yield tracer is used so that samples can be counted immediately following the separation method, avoiding lengthy ingrowth times that are required in other methods.« less

Efficacy and Safety of Initial Combination Treatment of an Alpha Blocker with an Anticholinergic Medication in Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Patients with Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms: Updated Meta-Analysis.

PubMed

Kim, Hyun Jung; Sun, Hwa Yeon; Choi, Hoon; Park, Jae Young; Bae, Jae Hyun; Doo, Seung Whan; Yang, Won Jae; Song, Yun Seob; Ko, Young Myoung; Kim, Jae Heon

2017-01-01

There is still controversy as to whether initial combination treatment is superior to serial addition of anticholinergics after maintenance or induction of alpha blockers in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)/lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). The objective of this study was to determine the benefits and safety of initial combination treatment of an alpha blocker with anticholinergic medication in BPH/LUTS through a systematic review and meta-analysis. We conducted a meta-analysis of improvement in LUTS using International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), maximal urinary flow rate (Qmax), post-voided residual volume (PVR), and quality of life (QoL). In total, 16 studies were included in our analysis, with a total sample size of 3,548 subjects (2,195 experimental subjects and 1,353 controls). The mean change in total IPSS improvement from baseline in the combination group versus the alpha blocker monotherapy group was -0.03 (95% CI: -0.14-0.08). The pooled overall SMD change of storage IPSS improvement from baseline was -0.28 (95% CI: -0.40 - -0.17). The pooled overall SMD changes of QoL, Qmax, and PVR were -0.29 (95% CI: -0.50 - -0.07), 0.00 (95% CI: -0.08-0.08), and 0.56 (95% CI: 0.23-0.89), respectively. There was no significant difference in the number of acute urinary retention (AUR) events or PVR. Initial combination treatment of an alpha blocker with anticholinergic medication is efficacious for in BPH/ LUTS with improved measures such as storage symptoms and QoL without causing significant deterioration of voiding function.

Efficacy and Safety of Initial Combination Treatment of an Alpha Blocker with an Anticholinergic Medication in Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Patients with Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms: Updated Meta-Analysis

PubMed Central

Kim, Hyun Jung; Sun, Hwa Yeon; Choi, Hoon; Park, Jae Young; Bae, Jae Hyun; Doo, Seung Whan; Yang, Won Jae; Song, Yun Seob; Ko, Young Myoung

2017-01-01

Background There is still controversy as to whether initial combination treatment is superior to serial addition of anticholinergics after maintenance or induction of alpha blockers in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)/lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) Objective The objective of this study was to determine the benefits and safety of initial combination treatment of an alpha blocker with anticholinergic medication in BPH/LUTS through a systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods We conducted a meta-analysis of improvement in LUTS using International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), maximal urinary flow rate (Qmax), post-voided residual volume (PVR), and quality of life (QoL). Results In total, 16 studies were included in our analysis, with a total sample size of 3,548 subjects (2,195 experimental subjects and 1,353 controls). The mean change in total IPSS improvement from baseline in the combination group versus the alpha blocker monotherapy group was -0.03 (95% CI: -0.14–0.08). The pooled overall SMD change of storage IPSS improvement from baseline was -0.28 (95% CI: -0.40 - -0.17). The pooled overall SMD changes of QoL, Qmax, and PVR were -0.29 (95% CI: -0.50 - -0.07), 0.00 (95% CI: -0.08–0.08), and 0.56 (95% CI: 0.23–0.89), respectively. There was no significant difference in the number of acute urinary retention (AUR) events or PVR. Conclusions Initial combination treatment of an alpha blocker with anticholinergic medication is efficacious for in BPH/ LUTS with improved measures such as storage symptoms and QoL without causing significant deterioration of voiding function. PMID:28072862

Role of {alpha}{sub v}{beta}{sub 5} integrin receptor in endocytosis of crocidolite and its effect on intracellular glutathione levels in human lung epithelial (A549) cells

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

Pande, Priyadarshini; Mosleh, Tariq A.; Aust, Ann E.

Crocidolite, containing 27% iron by weight, is the most carcinogenic form of asbestos. Crocidolite fibers are endocytized by {alpha}{sub v}{beta}{sub 5} integrin receptors in rabbit pleural mesothelial cells. We show here that crocidolite fibers are endocytized in human lung epithelial (A549) cells and in primary small airway epithelial (SAEC) cells. Presence of the integrin {alpha}{sub v}{beta}{sub 5} blocking antibody, P1F6, significantly reduced the uptake of crocidolite fibers in A549 cells. Thus, the integrin {alpha}{sub v}{beta}{sub 5} receptor is involved in endocytosis of crocidolite fibers in A549 cells as well. Previously, it has been observed that asbestos fibers lead to changesmore » in the intracellular redox environment, i.e. a marked decrease in intracellular glutathione concentrations and an increase in the extracellular glutathione in A549 cells. In addition, the decrease in intracellular glutathione was found to be largely independent of iron present on the surface of the fiber. A549 cells were treated with crocidolite in the presence of endocytosis inhibitor cytochalasin D. Our data indicate that, upon preventing endocytosis, we were able to reverse the decrease in total intracellular glutathione. The decrease in total intracellular glutathione could also be prevented in the presence of the monoclonal antibody P1F6. Thus, we observed that endocytosis of crocidolite fibers via integrin {alpha}{sub v}{beta}{sub 5} receptor is linked to the marked decrease in total intracellular glutathione in A549 cells.« less

Molecular analysis and comparison of radiation-induced large deletions of the HPRT locus in primary human skin fibroblasts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yamada, Y.; Park, M. S.; Okinaka, R. T.; Chen, D. J.

1996-01-01

Genetic alterations in gamma-ray- and alpha-particle-induced HPRT mutants were examined by multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis. A total of 39-63% of gamma-ray-induced and 31-57% of alpha-particle-induced mutants had partial or total deletions of the HPRT gene. The proportion of these deletion events was dependent on radiation dose, and at the resolution limits employed there were no significant differences between the spectra induced by equitoxic doses of alpha particles (0.2-0.4 Gy) and gamma rays (3 Gy). The molecular nature of the deletions was analyzed by the use of sequence tagged site (STS) primers and PCR amplification as a "probe" for specific regions of the human X chromosome within the Xq26 region. These STSs were closely linked and spanned regions approximately 1.7 Mbp from the telomeric side and 1.7 Mbp from the centromeric side of the HPRT gene. These markers include: DXS53, 299R, DXS79, yH3L, 3/19, PR1, PR25, H2, yH3R, 1/44, 1/67, 1/1, DXS86, D8C6, DXS10 and DXS144. STS analyses indicated that the maximum size of total deletions in radiation-induced HPRT mutants can be greater than 2.7 Mbp and deletion size appears to be dependent on radiation dose. There were no apparent differences in the sizes of the deletions induced by alpha particles or gamma rays. On the other hand, deletions containing portions of the HPRT gene were observed to be 800 kbp or less, and the pattern of the partial deletion induced by alpha particles appeared to be different from that induced by gamma rays.

Characterization of casein gene complex and genetic diversity analysis in Indian goats.

PubMed

Rout, P K; Kumar, A; Mandal, A; Laloe, D; Singh, S K; Roy, R

2010-04-01

Milk protein polymorphism plays an important role in genetic diversity analysis, phylogenetic studies, establishing geographical diversity, conservation decision, and improving breeding goals. Milk protein polymorphism in Indian goat breeds has not been well studied; therefore, an investigation was carried out to analyze the genetic structure of the casein gene and milk protein diversity at six milk protein loci in nine Indian goat breeds/genetic groups from varied agro-climatic zones. Milk protein genotyping was carried out in 1098 individual milk samples by SDS-PAGE at alphaS1-CN (CSN1S1), beta-CN (CSN2), alphaS2-CN (CSN1S2), kappa-CN (CSN3), beta-LG, and alpha-LA loci. Indian goats exhibited alphaS1-casein A allele in higher frequency in the majority of breeds except Ganjam and local goats. The alphaS1-casein A allele frequencies varied from 0.45 to 0.77. A total of 16 casein haplotypes were observed in seven breeds and breed specific haplotypes were observed with respect to geographic region. The average number of alleles was lowest in Ganjam (1.66 +/- 0.81) and highest in Sirohi goats (2.50 +/- 1.05). Expected heterozygosity at six different loci demonstrated genetic diversity and breed fragmentation. Neighbor-Joining tree was built basing on Nei's distance. There was about 16.95% variability due to differences between breeds, indicating a strong subdivision. Principal component analysis was carried out to highlight the relationship among breeds. The variability among goat breeds was contributed by alphaS2-CN, beta-LG and alphaS1-CN. The Indian goats exhibited alphaS1-CN (CSN1S1) A allele in higher frequency in all the breeds indicating the higher casein yield in their milk.

Functional assessment of recombinant human alpha(2)-adrenoceptor subtypes with cytosensor microphysiometry.

PubMed

Pihlavisto, M; Scheinin, M

1999-12-03

We applied the Cytosensor Microphysiometry system to study the three human alpha(2)-adrenoceptor subtypes, alpha(2A), alpha(2B) and alpha(2C), expressed in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells, and assessed its potential in the quantitative monitoring of agonist activity. The natural full agonist, (-)-noradrenaline, was used to define agonist efficacy. The imidazole derivative dexmedetomidine was a potent full agonist of all three receptor subtypes. The imidazolines clonidine and UK 14,304 (5-bromo-N-(4, 5-dihydro-1H-imidazol-2-yl)-6-quinoxalinamine) appeared to be partial agonists at alpha(2B)-adrenoceptors (E(max) approximately 60% of (-)-noradrenaline) but full agonists at alpha(2A)- and alpha(2C)-adrenoceptors. The responses mediated by all three alpha(2)-adrenoceptor subtypes were partly inhibited by the sodium-hydrogen (Na(+)/H(+)) exchange inhibitor, MIA (5-(N-methyl-N-isobutyl)-amiloride). The agonist responses were totally abolished by pretreatment with pertussis toxin in cells with alpha(2A)- and alpha(2C)-adrenoceptors, and partly abolished in cells with alpha(2B)-adrenoceptors. The residual signal in alpha(2B)-cells was sensitive to the intracellular Ca(2+)chelator, BAPTA (1,2-bis(2-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N,N-tetraacetic acid acetoxymethyl ester). Cholera toxin (which acts on G(s)-proteins) had no effect on the agonist responses. The results suggest that the extracellular acidification responses mediated by all three human alpha(2)-adrenoceptor subtypes are dependent on Na(+)/H(+)exchange and G(i/o) pathways, and that alpha(2B)-adrenoceptors are capable of coupling to another, G(i/o)-independent and Ca(2+)-dependent signaling pathway.

A Psychometric Examination of English and Spanish Versions of the Revised Conflict Tactics Scales

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Connelly, Cynthia D.; Newton, Rae R.; Aarons, Gregory A.

2005-01-01

The psychometric properties of the Revised Conflict Tactics Scales (CTS2) are examined for English-speaking (n = 211) and Spanish-speaking (n = 194) Latino women. Internal consistency of total scale scores is satisfactory (Cronbach's alpha of .70 to .84). However, subscale alphas range from .46 to .80. Confirmatory factor analyses support five…

Momentum balance in four solar flares

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Canfield, Richard C.; Metcalf, Thomas R.; Zarro, Dominic M.; Lemen, James R.

1990-01-01

Solar Maximum Mission soft X-ray spectra and National Solar Observatory (Sacramento Peak) H-alpha spectra were combined in a study of high-speed flows during the impulsive phase of four solar flares. In all events, a blue asymmetry (indicative of upflows) was observed in the coronal Ca XIX line during the soft X-ray rise phase. In all events a red asymmetry (indicative of downflows) was observed simultaneously in chromospheric H-alpha. These oppositely directed flows were concurrent with impulsive hard X-ray emission. Combining the velocity data with estimates of the density based on emission measurements and volume estimates, it is shown that for the impulsive phase as a whole the total momentum of upflowing soft X-ray plasma equaled that of the downflowing H-alpha plasma, to within an order of magnitude, in all four events. Only the chromospheric evaporation model predicts equal total momentum in the upflowing soft X-ray-emitting and downflowing H-alphba-emitting materials.

Free hemoglobin enhances tumor necrosis factor-alpha production in isolated human monocytes.

PubMed

Carrillo, Eddy H; Gordon, Laura E; Richardson, J David; Polk, Hiram C

2002-03-01

A systemic inflammatory response (SIR) is seen in approximately 75% of patients with complex blunt liver injuries treated nonoperatively. Many feel this response is caused by blood, bile, and necrotic tissue accumulation in the peritoneal cavity. Our current treatment for these patients is a delayed laparoscopic washout of the peritoneal cavity, resulting in a dramatic resolution of the SIR. Spectrophotometric analysis of the intraperitoneal fluid has confirmed the presence of high concentrations of free hemoglobin (Hb). We hypothesize that free Hb enhances the local peritoneal response by increasing tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) production by monocytes, contributing to the local inflammatory response and SIR. Monocytes from five healthy volunteers were isolated and cultured in RPMI-1640 for 24 hours. Treatment groups included saline controls, lipopolysaccharide ([LPS], 10 ng/mL, from Escherichia coli), human Hb (25 microg/mL), and Hb + LPS. Supernatants were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Student's t test with Mann-Whitney posttest was used for statistical analysis with p < or = 0.05 considered significant. Free Hb significantly increased TNF-alpha production 915 +/- 223 pg/mL versus saline (p = 0.02). LPS and Hb + LPS further increased TNF-alpha production (2294 pg/mL and 2501 pg/mL, respectively, p < 0.001) compared with saline controls. These data confirm that free Hb is a proinflammatory mediator resulting in the production of significant amounts of TNF-alpha. These in vitro findings support our clinical data in which timely removal of intraperitoneal free hemoglobin helps prevent its deleterious local and systemic inflammatory effects in patients with complex liver injuries managed nonoperatively.

Quantitative electroencephalogram (QEEG) Spectrum Analysis of Patients with Schizoaffective Disorder Compared to Normal Subjects.

PubMed

Moeini, Mahdi; Khaleghi, Ali; Amiri, Nasrin; Niknam, Zahra

2014-10-01

The aim of this study was to achieve a better understanding of schizoaffective disorder. Therefore, we obtained electroencephalogram (EEG) signals from patients with schizoaffective disorder and analyzed them in comparison to normal subjects. Forty patients with schizoaffective disorder and 40 normal subjects were selected randomly and their electroencephalogram signals were recorded based on 10-20 international system by 23 electrodes in open- and closed-eyes while they were sitting on a chair comfortably. After preprocessing for noise removal and artifact reduction, we took 60- second segments from each recorded signals. Then, the absolute and relative powers of these segments were evaluated in all channels and in 4 frequency bands (i.e., delta, theta, alpha and beta waves). Finally, Data were analyzed by independent t-test using SPSS software. A significant decrease in relative power in the alpha band, a significant decrease in power spectra in the alpha band and a significant increase in power spectra in the beta band were found in patients compared to normal subjects (P < 0.05). The predominant wave in the centro-parietal region was the beta wave in patients, but it was the alpha band in normal subjects (P = 0.048). Also, the predominant wave of the occipital region in patients was the delta wave, while it was the alpha wave in normal subjects (P = 0.038). Considering the findings, particularly based on the significant decrease of the alpha waves in schizoaffective patients, it can be concluded that schizoaffective disorder can be seen in schizophrenia spectrum.

Thylakoid membrane protein topography: transmembrane orientation of the chloroplast cytochrome b-559 psbE gene product.

PubMed

Tae, G S; Black, M T; Cramer, W A; Vallon, O; Bogorad, L

1988-12-27

Protease accessibility and antibody to a COOH-terminal peptide were used as probes for the in situ topography of the Mr 10,000 psbE gene product (alpha subunit) of the chloroplast cytochrome b-559. Exposure of thylakoid membranes to trypsin or Staphylococcus aureus V8 protease cleaved the alpha subunit to a slightly smaller polypeptide (delta Mr approximately -1000) as detected on Western blots, without loss of reactivity to COOH-terminal antibody. The disappearance of the parent Mr 10,000 polypeptide from thylakoids in the presence of trypsin correlated with the appearance of the smaller polypeptide with delta Mr = -750, the conversion having a half-time of approximately 15 min. Exposure of inside-out vesicles to trypsin resulted in almost complete loss of reactivity to the antibody, showing that the COOH terminus is exposed on the lumenal side of the membrane. Removal of the extrinsic polypeptides of the oxygen-evolving complex resulted in an increase of the accessibility of the alpha subunit to trypsin. These data establish that the alpha subunit of cytochrome b-559 crosses the membrane once, as predicted from its single, 26-residue, hydrophobic domain. The NH2 terminus of the alpha polypeptide is on the stromal side of the membrane, where it is accessible, most likely at Arg-7 or Glu-6/Asp-11, to trypsin or V8 protease, respectively. As a consequence of this orientation, the single histidine residue in the alpha subunit is located on the stromal side of the hydrophobic domain.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Electronic and transformation properties of a metastable defect introduced in epitaxially grown boron-doped p-type Si by alpha particle irradiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mamor, M.; Auret, F. D.; Goodman, S. A.; Meyer, W. E.; Myburg, G.

1998-06-01

Titanium (Ti) Schottky barrier diodes on epitaxially grown boron-doped p-type Si films with a free carrier density of 6-8×1016cm-3 were irradiated with alpha particles at room temperature using an americium-241 (Am-241) radio nuclide. We report the electronic and transformation characteristics of an α-particle irradiation-induced defect Hα2 in epitaxially grown p-Si with metastable properties. The energy level and apparent capture cross section, as determined by deep-level transient spectroscopy, are Ev+0.43 eV and 1.4×10-15 cm2, respectively. This defect can be removed and re-introduced using a conventional bias-on/off cooling technique.

Glycoprotein synthesis in yeast. Identification of Man8GlcNAc2 as an essential intermediate in oligosaccharide processing.

PubMed

Byrd, J C; Tarentino, A L; Maley, F; Atkinson, P H; Trimble, R B

1982-12-25

Synthesis of the N-linked oligosaccharides of Saccharomyces cerevisiae glycoproteins has been studied in vivo by labeling with [2-3H]mannose and gel filtration analysis of the products released by endoglycosidase H. Both small oligosaccharides, Man8-14GlcNAc, and larger products, Man greater than 20GlcNAc, were labeled. The kinetics of continuous and pulse-chase labeling demonstrated that Glc3Man9GlcNAc2, the initial product transferred to protein, was rapidly (t1/2 congruent to 3 min) trimmed to Man8GlcNAc2 and then more slowly (t1/2 = 10-20 min) elongated to larger oligosaccharides. No oligosaccharides smaller than Man8GlcNAc2 were evident with either labeling procedure. In confirmation of the trimming reaction observed in vivo, 3H-labeled Man9-N-acetylglucosaminitol from bovine thyroglobulin and [14C]Man9GlcNAc2 from yeast oligosaccharide-lipid were converted in vitro by broken yeast cells to 3H-labeled Man8-N-acetylglucosaminitol and [14C]Man8GlcNAc2. Man8GlcNAc and Man9GlcNAc from yeast invertase and from bovine thyroglobulin were purified by gel filtration and examined by high field 1H-NMR analysis. Invertase Man8GlcNAc (B) and Man9GlcNAc (C) were homogeneous compounds, which differed from the Man9GlcNAc (A) of thyroglobulin by the absence of a specific terminal alpha 1,2-linked mannose residue. The Man9GlcNAc of invertase (C) had an additional terminal alpha 1,6-linked mannose and appeared identical in structure with that isolated from yeast containing the mnn1 and mnn2 mutations (Cohen, R. E., Zhang, W.-j., and Ballou, C. E. (1982) J. Biol. Chem. 257, 5730-5737). It is concluded that Man8GlcNAc2, formed by removal of glucose and a single mannose from Glc3Man9GlcNAc2, is the ultimate product of trimming and the minimal precursor for elongation of the oligosaccharides on yeast glycoproteins. The results suggest that removal of a particular terminal alpha 1,2-linked mannose from Man9GlcNAc2 by a highly specific alpha-mannosidase exposes the nascent Man-alpha 1,6-Man backbone for elongation with additional alpha 1,6-linked mannose residues, according to the following scheme: (formula, see text).

CPT1{alpha} over-expression increases long-chain fatty acid oxidation and reduces cell viability with incremental palmitic acid concentration in 293T cells

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

Jambor de Sousa, Ulrike L.; Koss, Michael D.; Fillies, Marion

2005-12-16

To test the cellular response to an increased fatty acid oxidation, we generated a vector for an inducible expression of the rate-limiting enzyme carnitine palmitoyl-transferase 1{alpha} (CPT1{alpha}). Human embryonic 293T kidney cells were transiently transfected and expression of the CPT1{alpha} transgene in the tet-on vector was activated with doxycycline. Fatty acid oxidation was measured by determining the conversion of supplemented, synthetic cis-10-heptadecenoic acid (C17:1n-7) to C15:ln-7. CPT1{alpha} over-expression increased mitochondrial long-chain fatty acid oxidation about 6-fold. Addition of palmitic acid (PA) decreased viability of CPT1{alpha} over-expressing cells in a concentration-dependent manner. Both, PA and CPT1{alpha} over-expression increased cell death. Interestingly,more » PA reduced total cell number only in cells over-expressing CPT1{alpha}, suggesting an effect on cell proliferation that requires PA translocation across the mitochondrial inner membrane. This inducible expression system should be well suited to study the roles of CPT1 and fatty acid oxidation in lipotoxicity and metabolism in vivo.« less

The measurement of alpha particle emissions from semiconductor memory materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bouldin, D. P.

1981-07-01

With the increasing concern for the affects of alpha particles on the reliability of semiconductor memories, an interest has arisen in characterizing semiconductor manufacturing materials for extremely low-level alpha-emitting contaminants. It is shown that four elements are of primary concern: uranium, thorium, radium, and polonium. Measurement of contamination levels are given relevance by first correlating them with alpha flux emission levels and then corre1ating these flux values with device soft error rates. Measurement techniques involve either measurements of elemental concentrations-applicable to only uranium and thorium - or direct measurements of alpha emission fluxes. Alpha fluxes are most usefully measured by means of ZnS scintillation counting, practical details of which are discussed. Materials measurements are reported for ceramics, solder, silicon, quartz, and various metals and organic materials. Ceramics and most metals have contamination levels of concern, but the high temperature processing normally used in semiconductor manufacturing and low total amounts reduce problems, at least for metals. Silicon, silicon compounds, and organic materials have been found to have no detectable alpha emitters. Finally, a brief discussion of the calibration of alpha sources for accelerated device testing is given, including practical details on the affects of source/chip separation and alignment variations.

A novel membrane distillation-thermophilic bioreactor system: biological stability and trace organic compound removal.

PubMed

Wijekoon, Kaushalya C; Hai, Faisal I; Kang, Jinguo; Price, William E; Guo, Wenshan; Ngo, Hao H; Cath, Tzahi Y; Nghiem, Long D

2014-05-01

The removal of trace organic compounds (TrOCs) by a novel membrane distillation-thermophilic bioreactor (MDBR) system was examined. Salinity build-up and the thermophilic conditions to some extent adversely impacted the performance of the bioreactor, particularly the removal of total nitrogen and recalcitrant TrOCs. While most TrOCs were well removed by the thermophilic bioreactor, compounds containing electron withdrawing functional groups in their molecular structure were recalcitrant to biological treatment and their removal efficiency by the thermophilic bioreactor was low (0-53%). However, the overall performance of the novel MDBR system with respect to the removal of total organic carbon, total nitrogen, and TrOCs was high and was not significantly affected by the conditions of the bioreactor. All TrOCs investigated here were highly removed (>95%) by the MDBR system. Biodegradation, sludge adsorption, and rejection by MD contribute to the removal of TrOCs by MDBR treatment. Crown Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Serum antioxidant and cholesterol levels in patients with different types of cancer.

PubMed

Abiaka, C; Al-Awadi, F; Al-Sayer, H; Gulshan, S; Behbehani, A; Farghally, M; Simbeye, A

2001-01-01

Serum antioxidant (urate, alpha-tocopherol) activity and cholesterol concentration in 142 patients of Indian and Arab (Kuwaitis and other Arabs) origin with different types of cancer (breast, colon, stomach, thyroid, oral, rectal, pancreatic, and renal) were compared to 100 age- and sex-matched control subjects. Values were expressed as medians (interquartile range). Urate concentration was significantly decreased in male patients compared to male controls (P < 0.0001) and in female patients and female breast cancer cases compared to female controls; P < 0.0001 and P = 0.001, respectively. Alpha-tocopherol concentration decreased significantly in total cancer, stomach, colon, rectal, and breast cancer cases than the controls; P < 0.0001, P < 0.0001, P < 0.0001, P = 0.012, and P = 0.022, respectively. Cholesterol concentration decreased significantly in stomach, oral, colon, and total cancer cases compared to the controls; P < 0.0001, P < 0.0001, P = 0.002, and P = 0.012, respectively. Among controls, females had significantly (P < 0.0001) lower concentrations of alpha-tocopherol than males. Among patients, cholesterol, urate, and alpha-tocopherol concentrations decreased significantly in smokers than in nonsmokers; P < 0.0001, P = 0.004, and P = 0.047, respectively. Generally, changes in alpha-tocopherol/cholesterol ratios mimicked changes in alpha-tocopherol concentration. Concentrations of all parameters decreased significantly in male patients compared to male controls. Age was positively associated with all three analytes with respect to the controls. Alpha-tocopherol correlated with cholesterol in cancer patients (r = 0.367; P < 0.0001) and with urate in the controls (r = 0.342; P < 0.0001). The data suggest cancer-related diminished synthesis of cholesterol and, generally, a greater antioxidant burden for alpha-tocopherol than urate in cancer-generated oxidative stress. The increased incidence of pancreatic cancer in Kuwaitis warrants further study. Copyright 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Profiles and removal efficiency of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons by two different types of sewage treatment plants in Hong Kong.

PubMed

Man, Yu Bon; Chow, Ka Lai; Cheng, Zhang; Mo, Wing Yin; Chan, Yung Hau; Lam, James Chung Wah; Lau, Frankie Tat Kwong; Fung, Wing Cheong; Wong, Ming Hung

2017-03-01

Sewage discharge could be a major source of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the coastal waters. Stonecutters Island and Shatin Sewage Treatment Works (SCISTW and STSTW) in Hong Kong, adopted chemically enhanced primary treatment and biological treatment, respectively. This study aimed at (1) determining the removal efficiencies of PAHs, (2) comparing the capabilities in removing PAHs, and (3) characterizing the profile of each individual PAHs, in the two sewage treatment plants (STPs). Quantification of 16 PAHs was conducted by a Gas Chromatography. The concentrations of total PAHs decreased gradually along the treatment processes (from 301±255 and 307±217ng/L to 14.9±12.1 and 63.3±54.1ng/L in STSTW and SCISTW, respectively). It was noted that STSTW was more capable in removing total PAHs than SCISTW with average total removal efficiency 94.4%±4.12% vs. 79.2%±7.48% (p<0.05). The removal of PAHs was probably due to sorption in particular matter, confirmed by the higher distribution coefficient of individual and total PAHs in solid samples (dewatered sludge contained 92.5% and 74.7% of total PAHs in SCISTW and STSTW, respectively) than liquid samples (final effluent-total contained 7.53% and 25.3% of total PAHs in STSTW and SCISTW, respectively). Despite the impressive capability of STSTW and SCISTW in removing PAHs, there was still a considerable amount of total PAHs (1.85 and 39.3kg/year, respectively for the two STPs) being discharged into Hong Kong coastal waters, which would be an environmental concern. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier B.V.

A SUCCESSFUL BROADBAND SURVEY FOR GIANT Ly{alpha} NEBULAE. II. SPECTROSCOPIC CONFIRMATION

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

Prescott, Moire K. M.; Dey, Arjun; Jannuzi, Buell T., E-mail: mkpresco@physics.ucsb.edu

2013-01-01

Using a systematic broadband search technique, we have carried out a survey for large Ly{alpha} nebulae (or Ly{alpha} {sup b}lobs{sup )} at 2 {approx}< z {approx}< 3 within 8.5 deg{sup 2} of the NOAO Deep Wide-Field Survey Booetes field, corresponding to a total survey comoving volume of Almost-Equal-To 10{sup 8} h {sup -3} {sub 70} Mpc{sup 3}. Here, we present our spectroscopic observations of candidate giant Ly{alpha} nebulae. Of 26 candidates targeted, 5 were confirmed to have Ly{alpha} emission at 1.7 {approx}< z {approx}< 2.7, 4 of which were new discoveries. The confirmed Ly{alpha} nebulae span a range of Ly{alpha}more » equivalent widths, colors, sizes, and line ratios, and most show spatially extended continuum emission. The remaining candidates did not reveal any strong emission lines, but instead exhibit featureless, diffuse, blue continuum spectra. Their nature remains mysterious, but we speculate that some of these might be Ly{alpha} nebulae lying within the redshift desert (i.e., 1.2 {approx}< z {approx}< 1.6). Our spectroscopic follow-up confirms the power of using deep broadband imaging to search for the bright end of the Ly{alpha} nebula population across enormous comoving volumes.« less

Role of alpha2C-adrenoceptor subtype in spatial working memory as revealed by mice with targeted disruption of the alpha2C-adrenoceptor gene.

PubMed

Tanila, H; Mustonen, K; Sallinen, J; Scheinin, M; Riekkinen, P

1999-02-01

The role of the alpha2C-adrenoceptor subtype in mediating the beneficial effect of alpha2-adrenoceptor agonists on spatial working memory was studied in adult mice with targeted inactivation of the alpha2C-receptor gene (KO) and their wild-type controls (WT). A delayed alternation task was run in a T-maze with mixed delays varying from 20 s to 120 s. Dexmedetomidine, a specific but subtype nonselective alpha2-adrenoceptor agonist, dose-dependently decreased the total number of errors. The effect was strongest at the dose of 5 microg/kg (s.c.), and was observed similarly in KO and WT mice. KO mice performed inferior to WT mice due to a higher number of perseverative errors. Dexmedetomidine slowed initiation of the motor response in the start phase at lower doses in WT mice than in KO mice but no such difference was observed in the return phase of the task, suggesting involvement of alpha2C-adrenoceptors in the cognitive aspect of response preparation or in response sequence initiation. According to these findings, enhancement of spatial working memory is best achieved with alpha2-adrenoceptor agonists which have neither agonistic nor antagonistic effects at the alpha2C-adrenoceptor subtype.

Off-label use of TNF-alpha inhibitors in a dermatological university department: retrospective evaluation of 118 patients.

PubMed

Sand, Freja Lærke; Thomsen, Simon Francis

2015-01-01

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF)-alpha inhibitors are licensed for patients with severe refractory psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. However, TNF-alpha inhibitors have also been used off-label for various recalcitrant mucocutaneous diseases. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of TNF-alpha inhibitors used for off-label dermatological indications. We retrospectively evaluated patient records of 118 patients treated off-label with TNF-alpha inhibitors in a dermatological university department. Patients presented with severe aphthous stomatitis/genital aphthous lesions (26), chronic urticaria (25), hidradenitis suppurativa (29), acne conglobata (11), dissecting cellulitis of the scalp (two), orofacial granulomatosis (four), sarcoidosis (four), granuloma annulare (two), granulomatous rosacea (one), granuloma faciale (one), subcorneal pustulosis (one), pyoderma gangrenosum (four), Sweet's syndrome (four), Well's syndrome (one), benign familial pemphigus (one), lichen planus (one), and folliculitis decalvans (one). A significant number of these patients went into remission during therapy with TNF-alpha inhibitors. A total of 11 patients (9%) experienced severe adverse effects during therapy. Off-label therapy with TNF-alpha inhibitors may be considered for selected patients with severe recalcitrant mucocutaneous diseases. The risk of severe adverse effects signals that a thorough benefit-risk assessment should be performed before initiating off-label treatment with TNF-alpha inhibitors for these conditions. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Transcriptional regulation by retinoic acid of interleukin-2 alpha receptors in human B cells.

PubMed Central

Bhatti, L; Sidell, N

1994-01-01

In this study, we demonstrated that retinoic acid (RA) up-regulated interleukin-2 receptor-alpha (IL-2R alpha) expression on two human B-cell lines, IE8.6 and SKW6.4. Deleted forms of the human IL-2R alpha promoter linked to the bacterial chloramphenicol acetyltransferase reporter gene were transfected into IE8.6 cells in order to define RA-responsive regulatory domains. Experiments using the -1.6 kb construct, which contains all known regulatory regions in the IL-2R alpha promoter, indicated that RA could induce IL-2R alpha promoter activity. The basal activity of the -471 construct was initially low, but was markedly enhanced by the addition of RA. Deletion of promoter sequences between -471 and -317 resulted in a significant augmentation of basal promoter activity and abolished promoter induction by RA. This finding revealed a requirement for sequences 5' of base -317 for RA-induced promoter activation, raising the possibility of the presence of both a RA response element and a negative regulatory element (NRE) upstream of base -317. Transfection studies with internal deletion mutants with the putative NRE removed resulted in increases in basal promoter activity and unresponsiveness to RA similar to the -317 construct. In contrast, an internal deletion mutant with the NRE intact had low basal activity and was inducible by RA similar to the -471 construct. Taken together, our results suggested that RA-induced activation of the IL-2R alpha promoter was through changes in the function of a NRE present between bases -400 and -368. This 31-base pair element may interact with an adjacent RA-responsive regulatory site as well as being responsible for down-regulation of basal IL-2R alpha expression under certain conditions. Images Figure 3 Figure 4 Figure 5 Figure 6 PMID:8157276

Omega-3 fatty acids improve appetite in cancer anorexia, but tumor resecting restores it.

PubMed

Goncalves, Carolina G; Ramos, Eduardo J B; Romanova, Irina V; Suzuki, Susumu; Chen, Chung; Meguid, Michael M

2006-02-01

Tumor growth leads to cancer anorexia that is ameliorated using omega-3 fatty acids (omega-3FA). We hypothesize that omega-3FA modulates up-regulation of hypothalamic orexigenic neuropeptide Y (NPY) and down-regulation of anorexigenic alpha melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) and serotonin 1B receptors (5-HT(1B)-receptors) in tumor-bearing rats. Twenty-eight tumor-bearing rats were fed either chow (TB-Control) or omega-3FA (TB-omega-3FA). When anorexia developed in TB-Control rats, they and a cohort of TB-omega-pi-3 rats were killed. The rest had their tumor resected (R-Control and R-omega-3FA), and when anorexic TB-Controls normalized their food intake, brains were removed for hypothalamic immunocytochemical study of NPY, alpha-MSH, and 5-HT(1B)-receptor antibodies concentrations. Comparison among slides were assessed by image analysis and analyzed by ANOVA and t test. At anorexia, hypothalamic NPY in arcuate nucleus (ARC) increased by 38% in TB-omega3FA versus TB-Control, whereas alpha-MSH decreased 64% in ARC and 29% in paraventricular nucleus (PVN). Omega-3FA diet in anorexia (TB-omega-3FA vs R-omega-3FA) produced similar qualitative changes of NPY (22% increase) and alpha-MSH (31% decrease) in ARC, with concomitant decrease of 37% in 5-HT(1B)-receptors in PVN, confirming the influence of omega-3FA on the hypothalamic food intake modulators. However, after tumor resection (TB-Control vs R-Control) a 97% increase in NPY and a 62% decrease in alpha-MSH occurred that was significantly greater than in rats fed omega-3FA diet. Tumor resection and omega-3FA modifies hypothalamic food intake activity, up-regulating NPY and down-regulating alpha-MSH and 5-HT(1B)-receptors. Tumor resection in anorexic rats on chow diet restored hypothalamic NPY, alpha-MSH, and food intake quantitatively more than in rats fed omega3FA diet.

Long-term stability of diurnal salivary cortisol and alpha-amylase secretion patterns.

PubMed

Skoluda, Nadine; La Marca, Roberto; Gollwitzer, Mario; Müller, Andreas; Limm, Heribert; Marten-Mittag, Birgitt; Gündel, Harald; Angerer, Peter; Nater, Urs M

2017-06-01

This study aimed to investigate long-term stability and variability of diurnal cortisol and alpha-amylase patterns. Diurnal cortisol and alpha-amylase secretion patterns were assessed on a single workday with three waves of measurement across a total time period of 24months in 189 participants. Separate hierarchical linear models were analyzed, with and without a number of potential predictor variables (age, BMI, smoking, chronic stress, stress reactivity). While low long-term stability was found in diurnal cortisol, the stability of diurnal alpha-amylase was moderate across the time period of 24months. Several predictor variables had a positive impact on diurnal cortisol and alpha-amylase secretion patterns averaged across waves. Our findings underpin the notion that long-term stability is not necessarily warranted in longitudinal studies. It is important to choose an appropriate study design when attempting to disentangle clinically and biologically relevant changes from naturally occurring variations in diurnal cortisol and alpha-amylase. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Self absorption of alpha and beta particles in a fiberglass filter.

PubMed

Luetzelschwab, J W; Storey, C; Zraly, K; Dussinger, D

2000-10-01

Environmental air sampling uses fiberglass filters to collect particulate matter from the air and then a gas flow detector to measure the alpha and beta activity on the filter. When counted, the filter is located close to the detector so the alpha and beta particles emerging from the filter travel toward the detector at angles ranging from zero to nearly 90 degrees to the normal to the filter surface. The particles at small angles can readily pass through the filter, but particles at large angles pass through a significant amount of filter material and can be totally absorbed. As a result, counting losses can be great. For 4 MeV alpha particles, the filter used in this experiment absorbs 43% of the alpha particles; for 7.5 MeV alphas, the absorption is 13%. The measured beta activities also can have significant counting losses. Beta particles with maximum energies of 0.2 and 2.0 MeV have absorptions of 44 and 2%, respectively.

alpha-Crystallin A sequences of Alligator mississippiensis and the lizard Tupinambis teguixin: molecular evolution and reptilian phylogeny.

PubMed

de Jong, W W; Zweers, A; Versteeg, M; Dessauer, H C; Goodman, M

1985-11-01

The amino acid sequences of the eye lens protein alpha-crystallin A from many mammalian and avian species, two frog species, and a dogfish have provided detailed information about the molecular evolution of this protein and allowed some useful inferences about phylogenetic relationships among these species. We now have isolated and sequenced the alpha-crystallins of the American alligator and the common tegu lizard. The reptilian alpha A chains appear to have evolved as slowly as those of other vertebrates, i.e., at two to three amino acid replacements per 100 residues in 100 Myr. The lack of charged replacements and the general types and distribution of replacements also are similar to those in other vertebrate alpha A chains. Maximum-parsimony analyses of the total data set of 67 vertebrate alpha A sequences support the monophyletic origin of alligator, tegu, and birds and favor the grouping of crocodilians and birds as surviving sister groups in the subclass Archosauria.

Decontaminating the DOE-STD-3013 Inner Container to Meet 10-CFR-835 Appendix D Requirements

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

Martinez, H.E.; Nelson, T.O.; Rivera, Y.M.

The United States Department of Energy (DOE) has published a standard that specifies the criteria for preparation and packaging of plutonium metals and oxides for safe long-term storage (DOE-STD-3013-96). This standard is followed for the packaging of materials resulting from the disassembly of nuclear weapons at Los Alamos National Laboratory under the Advanced Retirement and Integrated Extraction System (ARIES) project. Declassified plutonium metal or oxide material from the ARES project is packaged into doubly contained and welded type 304L stainless steel containers that comply with the DOE standard. The 3013-96 standard describes requirements for maximum contamination limits on the outermore » surface of the sealed inner container. These limits are 500 dpm per 100 cm2 for direct measurements and 20 dpm per 100 cm2 for removable contamination. For containers filled, welded, and handled inside a highly contaminated glovebox line, these limits are difficult to obtain. Simple handling within the line is demonstrated to contaminate surfaces from 10,000 to 10,000,000 dpm alpha per 100 cm2. To routinely achieve contamination levels below the maximum contamination levels specified by the 3013-96 standard within a processing operation, a decontamination step must be included. In the ARIES line, this decontamination step is an electrolytic process that produces a controlled uniform etch of the container surfaces. Decontamination of the 3013-96 compliant ARIES inner container is well demonstrated. Within 30 to 50 minutes electrolysis time, tixed contamination is reduced to hundreds of dpm generally occurring only at electrode contact points and welds. Removable contamination is routinely brought to non-detectable levels. The total process time for the cycle (includes electrolysis, rinse, and dry stages) is on the order of 1.5 to 2 hours per container. The ARIES inner container decontamination system highly automated and consists of a plumbing loop, electronic controls and process monitors, and a decontamination chamber or "fixture". The tixture is situated like an air lock between a contaminated and an uncontaminated section of a processing glovebox. The welded and leak tested container is placed into the fixture through a door on the contaminated side and the electrolysis process is run, including rinse and dry cycles. The container is then removed through a second door into the uncontaminated side where it is monitored for surface alpha contamination, leak checked, and reweighed.« less

Combined System of Activated Sludge and Ozonation for the Treatment of Kraft E1 Effluent

PubMed Central

Assalin, Marcia Regina; dos Santos Almeida, Edna; Durán, Nelson

2009-01-01

The treatment of paper mill effluent for COD, TOC, total phenols and color removal was investigated using combined activated sludge-ozonation processes and single processes. The combined activated sludge-O3/pH 10 treatment was able to remove around 80% of COD, TOC and color from Kraft E1 effluent. For the total phenols, the efficiency removal was around 70%. The ozonation post treatment carried out at pH 8.3 also showed better results than the single process. The COD, TOC, color and total phenols removal efficiency obtained were 75.5, 59.1, 77 and 52.3%, respectively. The difference in the concentrations of free radical produced by activated sludge-O3/pH 10 and activated sludge-O3/pH 8.3 affected mainly the TOC and total phenol removal values. PMID:19440438

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

Ericsson, F.; Odar-Cederloef, I.E.; Eriksson, C.G.

The authors determined total body water (TBW) with tritium in 11 patients on chronic hemodialysis and compared this space to that estimated by 60% of body weight, and removal spaces of urea, creatinine, uric acid, and phosphate (PO4). The latter spaces were determined by dividing the total amount of substance (measured in total dialysate) by pre- minus post-dialysis concentrations. Body water X 0.6 was more than 10% less than the tritium space, and showed a maximal variation of 10 liters, or 24%. The removal space of urea was 80% of the tritium space, but correlated closely with it. The differencemore » between total body water and urea removal space was variable and dependent on fluid excess (edema) in the patients. Creatinine, uric acid, and phosphate removal spaces were highly variable and not correlated to total body water. The authors suggest that actual measured TBW should be used, rather than estimations using BW X 0.6, for V in K X T/V, where K = clearance, T = duration of dialysis, and V = the removal space of urea. Furthermore, one may need to introduce a correction factor for urea removal space over TBW in the equation to allow better quantification of dialysis in edematous patients and during very fast dialyses.« less

Safety of endoscopic removal of self-expandable stents after treatment of benign esophageal diseases.

PubMed

van Halsema, Emo E; Wong Kee Song, Louis M; Baron, Todd H; Siersema, Peter D; Vleggaar, Frank P; Ginsberg, Gregory G; Shah, Pari M; Fleischer, David E; Ratuapli, Shiva K; Fockens, Paul; Dijkgraaf, Marcel G W; Rando, Giacomo; Repici, Alessandro; van Hooft, Jeanin E

2013-01-01

Temporary placement of self-expandable stents has been increasingly used for the management of benign esophageal diseases. To evaluate the safety of endoscopic removal of esophageal self-expandable stents placed for the treatment of benign esophageal diseases. Multicenter retrospective study. Six tertiary care centers in the United States and Europe. A total of 214 patients with benign esophageal diseases undergoing endoscopic stent removal. Endoscopic stent removal. Endoscopic techniques for stent removal, time to stent removal, and adverse events related to stent removal. A total of 214 patients underwent a total of 329 stent extractions. Stents were mainly placed for refractory strictures (49.2%) and fistulae (49.8%). Of the removed stents, 52% were fully covered self-expandable metal stents (FCSEMSs), 28.6% were partially covered self-expandable metal stents (PCSEMSs), and 19.5% were self-expandable plastic stents. A total of 35 (10.6%) procedure-related adverse events were reported, including 7 (2.1%) major adverse events. Multivariate analysis revealed that use of PCSEMSs (P < .001) was a risk factor for adverse events during stent removal. Favorable factors for successful stent removal were FCSEMSs (P ≤ .012) and stent migration (P = .010). No significant associations were found for stent indwelling time (P = .145) and stent embedding (P = .194). Retrospective analysis, only tertiary care centers. With an acceptable major adverse event rate of 2.1%, esophageal stent removal in the setting of benign disease was found to be a safe and feasible procedure. FCSEMSs were more successfully removed than self-expandable plastic stents and PCSEMSs. Adverse events caused by stent removal were not time dependent. Copyright © 2013 American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

Rocket observations of solar UV radiation during the eclipse of 7 March 1970.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, L. G.

1972-01-01

Results of observations of the solar eclipse of Mar. 7, 1970, with photometers sensitive to narrow bands of radiation at Lyman-alpha (1216 A) and at 2600 A included in the payloads of four Nike Apache rockets flown before and during the eclipse. At the center of totality, the flux of Lyman-alpha from the solar corona is 0.15% of the flux from the unobscured sun. The flux at second contact is 0.64%; at third contact, two observations give 0.52 and 0.59%. The brightness of the chromosphere in Lyman-alpha decreases exponentially over the range from 5 to 30 arc-sec from the limb with a scale height of 3835 plus or minus 70 km. In addition to the coronal and chromospheric Lyman-alpha a diffuse source is found. This is restricted to within 20 deg of the earth's horizon and is nearly uniform in azimuth at 170 km, the flux is about 3% of that from the unobscured sun. The flux of Lyman-alpha during the eclipse is considered in relation to the observed variation in electron density. It is concluded that, in totality, the ionosphere near 80 km is not in equilibrium with the ionizing radiation and that the production rate for electrons is not negligible if the loss process is recombination; it is negligible if the loss process is attachment-like.

Heterodimerization with beta2-adrenergic receptors promotes surface expression and functional activity of alpha1D-adrenergic receptors.

PubMed

Uberti, Michelle A; Hague, Chris; Oller, Heide; Minneman, Kenneth P; Hall, Randy A

2005-04-01

The alpha1D-adrenergic receptor (alpha1D-AR) is a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) that is poorly trafficked to the cell surface and largely nonfunctional when heterologously expressed by itself in a variety of cell types. We screened a library of approximately 30 other group I GPCRs in a quantitative luminometer assay for the ability to promote alpha1D-AR cell surface expression. Strikingly, these screens revealed only two receptors capable of inducing robust increases in the amount of alpha1D-AR at the cell surface: alpha1B-AR and beta2-AR. Confocal imaging confirmed that coexpression with beta2-AR resulted in translocation of alpha1D-AR from intracellular sites to the plasma membrane. Additionally, coimmunoprecipitation studies demonstrated that alpha1D-AR and beta2-AR specifically interact to form heterodimers when coexpressed in HEK-293 cells. Ligand binding studies revealed an increase in total alpha1D-AR binding sites upon coexpression with beta2-AR, but no apparent effect on the pharmacological properties of the receptors. In functional studies, coexpression with beta2-AR significantly enhanced the coupling of alpha1D-AR to norepinephrine-stimulated Ca2+ mobilization. Heterodimerization of beta2-AR with alpha1D-AR also conferred the ability of alpha1D-AR to cointernalize upon beta2-AR agonist stimulation, revealing a novel mechanism by which these different adrenergic receptor subtypes may regulate each other's activity. These findings demonstrate that the selective association of alpha1D-AR with other receptors is crucial for receptor surface expression and function and also shed light on a novel mechanism of cross talk between alpha1- and beta2-ARs that is mediated through heterodimerization and cross-internalization.

Oxidative stress and acute-phase response in patients with pressure sores.

PubMed

Cordeiro, Maria Bernarda Cavalcanti; Antonelli, Elida Juliana; da Cunha, Daniel Ferreira; Júnior, Alceu Afonso Jordão; Júnior, Virmondes Rodrigues; Vannucchi, Helio

2005-09-01

We investigated the relation between oxidative stress and the occurrence of the acute-phase response with serum ascorbic acid and alpha-tocopherol levels in patients with pressure sores. The following groups of patients were studied: 1) those who had patients with pressure sores, 2) those who had pneumonia, and 3) those who did not develop pressure sores or any type of infection (control). Concentrations of total proteins, albumin, creatinine, iron, ferritin, transferrin, C-reactive protein, alpha1-acid glycoprotein, total iron-binding capacity, ascorbic acid, alpha-tocopherol, and malondialdehyde were measured during the first days of hospitalization. Albumin concentrations were significantly lower (P < 0.05) and C-reactive protein concentrations were significantly higher (P < 0.05) in patients with pressure sores compared with controls. Concentrations of ascorbic acid and alpha-tocopherol were significantly decreased (P < 0.05) in patients who had pressure sores or infection, whereas malondialdehyde concentrations were significantly increased (P < 0.05) compared with control patients. Five of 11 patients (55.56%) with pressure sores and 10 of 12 patients (83.33%) with pneumonia presented serum ascorbic acid concentrations below the reference value (34 to 91 micromol/L). Concentrations of ascorbic acid and alpha-tocopherol versus malondialdehyde were significantly correlated in the three patient groups (r = -0.44, P < 0.05; r = -0.55, P < 0.01, respectively). Patients with pressure sores and acute infection present a systemic inflammatory response accompanied by an increase in lipid peroxidation that is associated with decreased serum ascorbic acid and alpha-tocopherol levels, suggesting that these patients may be at risk for important nutritional deficiencies.

Alpha heating and isotopic mass effects in JET plasmas with sawteeth

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

Budny, R. V.; Team, JET

2016-02-09

The alpha heating experiment in the Joint European Torus (JET) 1997 DTE1 campaign is re-examined. Several effects correlated with tritium content and thermal hydrogenic isotopic mass < A> weaken the conclusion that alpha heating was clearly observed. These effects delayed the occurrence of significant sawtooth crashes allowing the electron and ion temperatures T e and T i to achieve higher values. Under otherwise equal circumstances T e and T i were typically higher for discharges with higher < A >, and significant scaling of T i, T e, and total stored energy with < A > were observed. The highermore » T i led to increased ion–electron heating rates with magnitudes comparable to those computed for alpha electron heating. Rates of other heating/loss processes also had comparable magnitudes. Simulations of T e assuming the observed scaling of T i are qualitatively consistent with the measured profiles, without invoking alpha heating« less

Alpha particle effects in burning tokamak plasmas: overview and specific examples

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

Sigmar, D.J.

1986-07-01

Using the total power balance of an ignited tokamak plasma as a guideline, a range of alpha driven effects is surveyed regarding their impact on achieving and maintaining fusion burn. Specific examples of MHD and kinetic modes and multi species transport dynamics are discussed, including the possible interaction of these categories of effects. This power balance approach rather than a straightforward enumeration of possible effects serves to reveal their non-linear dependence and the ensuing fragility of our understanding of the approach to and maintenance of ignition. Specific examples are given of the interaction between ..cap alpha..-power driven sawtoothing and idealmore » MHD stability, and direct ..cap alpha..-effects on MHD modes including kinetic corrections. Anomalous ion heat transport and central impurity peaking mechanisms and anomalous and collisional ..cap alpha..-transport including the ambipolar electric field are discussed.« less

Evaluation of the performance of the Tyson Foods wastewater treatment plant for nitrogen removal.

PubMed

Ubay-Cokgor, E; Randall, C W; Orhon, D

2005-01-01

In this paper, the performance of the Tyson Foods wastewater treatment plant with an average flow rate of 6500 m3/d was evaluated before and after upgrading of the treatment system for nitrogen removal. This study was also covered with an additional recommendation of BIOWIN BNR program simulation after the modification period to achieve an additional nutrient removal. The results clearly show that the upgrading was very successful for improved nitrogen removal, with a 57% decrease on the total nitrogen discharge. There also were slight reductions in the discharged loads of biological oxygen demand, total suspended solids, ammonium and total phosphorus with denitrification, even though the effluent flow was higher during operation of the nitrogen removal configuration.

Characterization of alpha-ketobutyrate metabolism in rat tissues: effects of dietary protein and fasting.

PubMed

Steele, R D; Weber, H; Patterson, J I

1984-04-01

The oxidative decarboxylation of alpha-ketobutyrate was studied in rat tissue preparations. Decarboxylation was confined to the mitochondrial fraction and required coenzyme A, NAD, TPP and FAD for optimal activity in solubilized preparations. The pH optimum for this reaction in liver was 7.8, somewhat higher than that reported for other alpha-keto acid dehydrogenases. An apparent Km of 0.63 mM for alpha-ketobutyrate was determined for the rat liver system. Competition by other alpha-keto acids at 10 mM concentrations inhibited enzyme activity up to 75%. Tissue distribution of alpha-ketobutyrate dehydrogenase activity relative to liver activity was (in percent): liver, 100; heart, 127; brain, 63; kidney, 57; skeletal muscle, 38; and small intestine, 7. Total liver alpha-ketobutyrate dehydrogenase was decreased by 40% after a 24-hour fast. Similar results were found for kidney and heart activity. alpha-Aminobutyrate-pyruvate aminotransferase activity in liver or kidney was not affected by fasting; however, it was induced in liver by 50% after feeding a 40% casein diet for 10 days compared to rats fed a 20% casein diet. Increasing the dietary casein content from 6 through 40% of the diet resulted in about a fivefold increase in liver alpha-ketobutyrate dehydrogenase activity. The substantial extrahepatic capacity for alpha-ketobutyrate metabolism makes it unlikely that a loss of liver function results in an inability to metabolize alpha-ketobutyrate. Whether alpha-ketobutyrate is decarboxylated by a specific enzyme or by an already characterized complex such as pyruvate dehydrogenase or the branched-chain keto acid dehydrogenase remains to be established.

[Levels of unified metabolites and thyroid hormones in blood and oral fluid of children with minimal brain dysfunction].

PubMed

Gil'miiarova, F N; Pervova, Iu V; Radomskaia, V M; Gergel', N I; Tarasova, S V

2004-01-01

Minimal brain dysfunctions in children with various perinatal complications are accompanied by metabolic imbalance manifested by decreased total protein content, the tendency to reduced triglycerides, increased cholesterol concentrations in the oral fluid, the trend to hypoproteinaemia, hypoglycaemia, hypotriglyceridaemia. The most significant changes in the redox systems alpha-ketoglutarate-glutamate, oxaloacetate-malate, pyruvate-lactate, dioxyacetone phosphate-alpha-glycerophosphate in biological fluids were revealed in cases of antenatal alcoholisation. A certain correlation was found between anemia in pregnant women and hypothyroidal background in children. In addition, a high level of free and total thyroxine, that of total triiodthyronine were found in the oral fluid. Hypophysis--thyroid dysregulation in children with minimal brain dysfunction associated with gestosis in their mothers during pregnancy, was manifested by decreased content of total and free T4 and T3 in blood serum and increased level of the thyroid-stimulating hormone.

The gaseous component of the disk around Beta Pictoris

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hobbs, L. M.; Vidal-Madjar, A.; Ferlet, R.; Albert, C. E.; Gry, C.

1985-01-01

Optical spectra of alpha Lyr, alpha PsA, and beta Pic have been obtained at a velocity resolution of 3 km/s. No circumstellar absorption lines of Ca II or Na I are detected toward alpha Lyr or alpha PsA at sensitive limits. In the favorable case of beta Pic, where the circumstellar disk imaged by Smith and Terrile (1984) is seen nearly edge-on, a strong, narrow, circumstellar Ca II K absorption line previously reported by Slettebak (1982) and weaker, still narrower circumstellar Na I D lines are detected. Negative results of high sensitivity also are obtained for the Ca I 4226 A and CH(+) 4232 A lines, along with upper limits on the Zn II 2026, 2062 A doublet from archival IUE spectra. Under assumptions which agree with other well-established observations of the gaseous abundances of calcium and zinc, the total gaseous column density of hydrogen along a radius of the circumstellar disk is between 10 to the 18th and 4 x 10 to the 20th/sq cm. Within the boundaries of the dust disk detected by Smith and Terrile (1984) the total gaseous mass then is less than about 2, or less than 1 percent of the mass of the planetary system. A simplified model of the density distribution in the gaseous disk yields a characteristic total density n(H) of about 100,000/cu cm, which exceeds that of all interplanetary gas at earth's position by a factor of about 10,000.

The Chinese version of Instrument of Professional Attitude for Student Nurses (IPASN): Assessment of reliability and validity.

PubMed

Xiao, Yu-Ying; Li, Ting; Xiao, Lin; Wang, Su-Wei; Wang, Si-Qi; Wang, Han-Xiao; Wang, Bei-Bei; Gao, Yu-Lin

2017-02-01

Professional attitude is of great importance for nursing talents in the modern society. To develop an effective educational program for student nurses in China, an appropriate instrument is required for the assessment of their professional attitude. To assess the validity and reliability of the Instrument of Professional Attitude for Student Nurses (IPASN) in Chinese version. The original version of IPASN was translated through Brislin model (translation, back translation, culture adaption and pilot study) with the authorization from the developer. A total of 681 nursing students were chosen by stratified convenience sampling to assess construct validity using exploratory factor analysis (EFA). Besides, item analysis, Cronbach's alpha coefficients, test-retest reliability were conducted to test the psychometric properties in this part. A total of 204 nursing undergraduate trainees were selected by cluster convenience sampling to confirm the structure using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) in another time. Corrected item-total correlations, alpha if item deleted were between 0.33 and 0.69, 0.906 and 0.913, respectively, indicating no item should be deleted. Cronbach alpha value was 0.91 for the total scale and Cronbach alpha coefficient for subscales ranged from 0.67 to 0.89. Test-retest reliability estimated from intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was 0.74 (P<0.05). Differences in item scores between the high-score group (the first 27%) and low-score group (the last 27%) were significant (P<0.001), indicating that the item discrimination ability was good. Seven subscales (contribution to increase of scientific information load, autonomy, community service, continuous education, to promote professional development, cooperation and theory guiding practice) were identified in EFA and confirmed in CFA, and explained 65.5% of the total variance. It indicated that the Chinese version of IPASN was valid and reliable for the evaluation of nursing students' professional attitude. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Epitope characterization of a supramolecular protein assembly with a collection of monoclonal antibodies: the case of casein micelle.

PubMed

Johansson, Annette; Lugand, Damien; Rolet-Répécaud, Odile; Mollé, Daniel; Delage, Marie-Madeleine; Peltre, Gabriel; Marchesseau, Sylvie; Léonil, Joëlle; Dupont, Didier

2009-03-01

In milk, kappa-, beta-, alphas(1)- and alphas(2)-casein (CN) are associated into a supramolecular assembly, the micelle. In this work, CN micelles contained in fresh skim milk were used to produce over 100 monoclonal antibodies. The specificity of these probes was determined using libraries of synthetic peptides and peptides fractionated from tryptic hydrolysis of purified CNs. Although kappa-CN and alphas(2)-CN are minor proteins in the micelle (ratio 1:1:4:4 for kappa, alphas(2), alphas(1), beta) a proportionally high number of clones were produced towards these two proteins (32 for each), compared to 9 and 29 for alphas(1)-CN and beta-CN, respectively. Most of the beta-CN and kappa-CN epitopes were identified, while about 50% of alphas(1)-CN and alphas(2)-CN antibodies were suspected to react to conformational linear or discontinuous epitopes, since no peptide binding could be identified. Antibody binding to the phosphoserine rich regions of the three calcium sensitive CNs was weak or non-existing, suggesting them to be hidden in the micelle structure together with alphas(1)-CN. The C-terminal glycomacropeptide of kappa-CN and the C-terminal moiety of beta-CN were well exposed generating the majority of the antibodies specific for these two proteins. The two major antigenic sites of alphas(2) were alphas(2)-CN (f96-114) and (f16-35). Cross-reaction between alphas(2)-CN specific antibodies with alphas(1)-CN illustrated the tangled structure between the two proteins. Immuno-dominant epitopes identified in the present study totally differ from those known for the purified caseins suggesting they were specific for the micelle supramolecular structure.

Resolution of G(s)alpha and G(q)alpha/G(11)alpha proteins in membrane domains by two-dimensional electrophoresis: the effect of long-term agonist stimulation.

PubMed

Matousek, P; Novotný, J; Svoboda, P

2004-01-01

Low-density membrane-domain fractions were prepared from S49 lymphoma cells and clone e2m11 of HEK293 cells expressing a large number of thyrotropin-releasing hormone receptor (TRH-R) and G(11)alpha by flotation on sucrose density gradients. The intact cell structure was broken by detergent-extraction, alkaline-treatment or drastic homogenization. Three types of low-density membranes were resolved by two-dimensional electrophoresis and analyzed for G(s)alpha (S49) or G(q)alpha/G11) (e2m11) content. Four individual immunoblot signals of Gsalpha protein were identified in S49 lymphoma cells indicating complete resolution of the long G(s)alpha L+/-ser and short G(s)alpha S+/-ser variants of G(s)alpha. All these were diminished by prolonged agonist (isoprenaline) stimulation. In e2m11-HEK cells, five different immunoblot signals were detected indicating post-translational modification of G proteins of G(q)alpha/G(11)alpha family. The two major spots corresponding to exogenously (over)expressed G(11)alpha and endogenous G(q)alpha were reduced; the minor spots diminished by hormonal stimulation. Parallel analysis by silver staining of the total protein content indicated that no major changes in protein composition occurred under these conditions. Our data thus indicate that agonist-stimulation of target cells results in down-regulation of all different members of G(s) and G(q)/G(11) families. This agonist-specific effect may be demonstrated in crude membrane as well as domain/raft preparations and it is not accompanied by changes in overall protein composition.

Neurofeedback training of EEG alpha rhythm enhances episodic and working memory.

PubMed

Hsueh, Jen-Jui; Chen, Tzu-Shan; Chen, Jia-Jin; Shaw, Fu-Zen

2016-07-01

Neurofeedback training (NFT) of the alpha rhythm has been used for several decades but is still controversial in regards to its trainability and effects on working memory. Alpha rhythm of the frontoparietal region are associated with either the intelligence or memory of healthy subjects and are also related to pathological states. In this study, alpha NFT effects on memory performances were explored. Fifty healthy participants were recruited and randomly assigned into a group receiving a 8-12-Hz amplitude (Alpha) or a group receiving a random 4-Hz amplitude from the range of 7 to 20 Hz (Ctrl). Three NFT sessions per week were conducted for 4 weeks. Working memory was assessed by both a backward digit span task and an operation span task, and episodic memory was assessed using a word pair task. Four questionnaires were used to assess anxiety, depression, insomnia, and cognitive function. The Ctrl group had no change in alpha amplitude and duration. In contrast, the Alpha group showed a progressive significant increase in the alpha amplitude and total alpha duration of the frontoparietal region. Accuracies of both working and episodic memories were significantly improved in a large proportion of participants of the Alpha group, particularly for those with remarkable alpha-amplitude increases. Scores of four questionnaires fell in a normal range before and after NFT. The current study provided supporting evidence for alpha trainability within a small session number compared with that of therapy. The findings suggested the enhancement of working and episodic memory through alpha NFT. Hum Brain Mapp 37:2662-2675, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

SLS Trade Study 0058: Day of Launch (DOL) Wind Biasing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Decker, Ryan K.; Duffin, Paul; Hill, Ashley; Beck, Roger; Dukeman, Greg

2014-01-01

SLS heritage hardware and legacy designs have shown load exceedances at several locations during Design Analysis Cycles (DAC): MPCV Z bending moments; ICPS Electro-Mechanical Actuator (EMA) loads; Core Stage loads just downstream of Booster forward interface. SLS Buffet Loads Mitigation Task Team (BLMTT) tasked to study issue. Identified low frequency buffet load responses are a function of the vehicle's total angle of attack (AlphaTotal). SLS DOL Wind Biasing Trade team to analyze DOL wind biasing methods to limit maximum AlphaTotal in the M0.8 - 2.0 altitude region for EM-1 and EM-2 missions through investigating: Trajectory design process; Wind wavelength filtering options; Launch availability; DOL process to achieve shorter processing/uplink timeline. Trade Team consisted of personnel supporting SLS, MPCV, GSDO programs.

Sulfated alpha-L-galactans from the sea urchin ovary: selective 6-desulfation as eggs are spawned.

PubMed

Cinelli, Leonardo P; Andrade, Leonardo; Valente, Ana Paula; Mourão, Paulo A S

2010-06-01

The sea urchin eggs are surrounded by a jelly coat, which contains sulfated polysaccharides with unique structures. These molecules are responsible for inducing the species-specific acrosome reaction, an obligatory event for the binding of sperm and fusion with the egg. The mechanism of biosynthesis of these sulfated polysaccharides is virtually unknown. The egg jelly of the sea urchin Echinometra lucunter contains a simple 2-sulfated, 3-linked alpha-L-galactan. Here, we pulse labeled the sea urchin ovary in vitro with (35)S-sulfate to follow the biosynthesis of the sulfated alpha-L-galactan. We found that the ovary contains a 2,6-disulfated, 3-linked alpha-L-galactan, which incorporates (35)S-sulfate more avidly than the 2-sulfated isoform. The 2,6-disulfated alpha-L-galactan was purified by anion exchange chromatography, analyzed by electrophoresis and characterized by 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance spectra. We also investigated the location of the sulfated polysaccharides on the oocytes using histochemical procedures. The stain revealed high amounts of sulfated polysaccharide in mature oocytes and accessory cells. The amount of intracellular sulfated polysaccharides decreased as oocytes are spawned. We speculate that 2,6-disulfated galactan is initially synthesized in the ovary and that 6-sulfate ester is removed when the polysaccharide is secreted into the egg jelly. Similar events related to remodeling of sulfated polysaccharides have been reported in other biological systems.

Measurement of vitamin D3 metabolites in smelter workers exposed to lead and cadmium

PubMed Central

Chalkley, S. R.; Richmond, J.; Barltrop, D.

1998-01-01

OBJECTIVES: To investigate the effects of lead and cadmium on the metabolic pathway of vitamin D3. METHODS: Blood and urinary cadmium and urinary total proteins were measured in 59 smelter workers occupationally exposed to lead and cadmium. In 19 of these workers, the plasma vitamin D3 metabolites, (25-hydroxycholecalciferol (25 OHD3), 24R, 25-dihydroxycholecalciferol (24R,25(OH)2D3) and 1 alpha,25- dihydroxycholecalciferol (1 alpha, 25(OH)2D3)) were measured together with blood lead. Vitamin D3 metabolites were measured by radioimmunoassay, (RIA), lead and cadmium by atomic absorption spectrophotometry, and total proteins with a test kit. RESULTS: Ranges for plasma 25(OH)D3, 24R,25(OH)2D3 and 1 alpha,25(OH)2D3 were 1.0-51.9 ng/ml, 0.6-5.8 ng/ml, and 0.1-75.7 pg/ml, respectively. Ranges for blood lead were 1-3.7 mumol/l, (21-76 micrograms/dl), blood cadmium 6- 145 nmol/l, and urinary cadmium 3-161 nmol/l. Total proteins in random urine samples were 2.1-32.6 mg/dl. Concentrations of lead and cadmium in blood showed no correlation (correlation coefficient -0.265) but there was a highly significant correlation between blood and urinary cadmium. Concentrations for 24R,25(OH)2D3 were depressed below the normal range as blood and urinary cadmium increased, irrespective of lead concentrations. High cadmium concentrations were associated with decreased plasma 1 alpha,25(OH)2D3 when lead concentrations were < 1.9 mumol/l and with above normal plasma 1 alpha,25(OH)2D3 when lead concentrations were > 1.9 mumol/l, Kruskal-Wallis analysis of variance (K-W ANOVA) chi 2 = 10.3, p = 0.006. Plasma 25(OH)D3 was negatively correlated with both urinary total proteins and urinary cadmium, but showed no correlation with plasma 24R,25(OH)2D3, 1 alpha,25(OH)2D3, blood lead, or blood cadmium. CONCLUSION: Continuous long term exposure to cadmium may result in a state of equilibrium between blood and urinary cadmium. Cadmium concentrations in blood could be predicted from the cadmium concentration of the urine, (regression coefficient +0.35 SE 0.077). Exposure to cadmium alone decreased the concentrations of 1 alpha,25(OH)2D3 and 24R,25(OH)2D3, whereas exposure to both cadmium and lead increased the concentrations of 1 alpha,25(OH)2D3. It has been suggested that cadmium and lead interact with renal mitochondrial hydroxylases of the vitamin D3 endocrine complex. Perturbation of the vitamin D metabolic pathway by cadmium may result in health effect, such as osteoporosis or osteomalacia, risks which are possibly increased in the presence of lead.   PMID:9816377

A sounding rocket program in extreme and far ultraviolet interferometry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chakrabarti, S.

1994-01-01

A self-compensating, all reflection interferometric (SCARI) spectrometer was developed that can provide high resolution measurements of spectral features at any wavelength. Several mechanical components were developed that aid the instrument's performance at the short wavelength range. Examples include an optical bench and modular removable precision mechanisms for alignment. Upon alignment and lock down of the interferometer with the latter, the device is removed to minimize weight. A ray-trace code was developed to simulate the instrument's performance. Interference patterns were obtained at the shortest wavelength: the hydrogen Lyman alpha (1216 A). A laboratory instrument was developed that will be flown aboard a Black Brant sounding rocket to study the very local interstellar medium.

Nickel hydroxide electrode. 3: Thermogravimetric investigations of nickel (II) hydroxides

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dennstedt, W.; Loeser, W.

1982-01-01

Water contained in Ni hydroxide influences its electrochemical reactivity. The water content of alpha and beta Ni hydroxides is different with respect to the amount and bond strength. Thermogravimetric experiments show that the water of the beta Ni hydroxides exceeding the stoichiometric composition is completely removed at 160 deg. The water contained in the interlayers of the beta hydroxide, however, is removed only at higher temperatures, together with the water originating from the decomposition of the hydroxide. These differences are attributed to the formation of II bonds within the interlayers and between interlayers and adjacent main layers. An attempt is made to explain the relations between water content and the oxidizability of the Ni hydroxides.

Endoscopic Approach to Remove Intra-extracranial Tumors in Various Skull Base Regions: 10-year Experience of a Single Center

PubMed Central

Zhang, Qiu-Hang; Wang, Zhen-Lin; Guo, Hong-Chuan; Kong, Feng; Yan, Bo; Li, Ming-Chu; Chen, Ge; Liang, Jian-Tao; Bao, Yu-Hai; Ling, Feng

2017-01-01

Background: Some problems have been found in the usually adopted combined approach for the removal of intra-extracranial tumors in skull base. Herein, we described a pure endoscopic transnasal or transoral approach (ETA) for the removal of intra-extracranial tumors in various skull base regions. Methods: Retrospectively, clinical data, major surgical complications, pre- and postoperative images, and follow-up information of a series of 85 patients with intra-extracranial tumors in various skull base regions who were treated by surgery via ETA in our skull base center during the past 10 years were reviewed and analyzed. Results: Gross total tumor removal was achieved in 80/85 cases (94.1%) in this study. All 37 cases with tumors in anterior skull base and all 14 cases with tumors in jugular foramen received total tumor removal. Thirteen and three cases with tumors in clivus received total and subtotal tumor removal, respectively. Total and subtotal tumor removal was performed for 16 cases and 2 cases in lateral skull base, respectively. The complications in this study included: cerebrospinal fluid leakage (n = 3), meningitis (n = 3), and new cranial nerve deficits (n = 3; recovered in 3 months after surgery). In the follow-up period of 40–151 months (median: 77 months), seven patients (8.8%) out of the 80 cases of total tumor removal experienced recurrence. Conclusions: Complete resection of intra-extracranial growing tumors in various skull base regions can be achieved via the pure ETA in one stage in selected cases. Surgical procedure for radical removal of tumors is feasible and safe. PMID:29237926

Effect of synthetic iron colloids on the microbiological NH(4)(+) removal process during groundwater purification.

PubMed

Wolthoorn, Anke; Temminghoff, Erwin J M; van Riemsdijk, Willem H

2004-04-01

Subsurface aeration is used to oxidise Fe in situ in groundwater that is used to make drinking water potable. In a groundwater system with pH>7 subsurface aeration results in non-mobile Fe precipitate and mobile Fe colloids. Since originally the goal of subsurface aeration is to remove iron in situ, the formation of non-mobile iron precipitate, which facilitates the metal's removal, is the desired result. In addition to this intended effect, subsurface aeration may also strongly enhance the microbiological removal of ammonium (NH(4)(+)) in the purification station. Mobile iron colloids could be the link between subsurface aeration and the positive effect on the NH(4)(+) removal process. Therefore, the objective of this study was to assess whether synthetic iron colloids could improve the NH(4)(+) removal process. The effect of synthetic iron colloids on the NH(4)(+) removal process was studied using an artificial purification set-up on a laboratory scale. Columns that purified groundwater with or without added synthetic iron colloids were set up in duplicate. The results showed that the NH(4)(+) removal was significantly ( alpha = 0.05 ) increased in columns treated with the synthetic iron colloids. Cumulative after 4 months about 10% more NH(4)(+) was nitrified in the columns that was treated with the groundwater containing synthetic iron colloids. The results support the hypothesis that mobile iron colloids could be the link between subsurface aeration and the positive effect on the NH(4)(+) removal process.

Rh(I)-catalyzed [(3 + 2) + 1] cycloaddition of 1-yne/ene-vinylcyclopropanes and CO: homologous Pauson-Khand reaction and total synthesis of (+/-)-alpha-agarofuran.

PubMed

Jiao, Lei; Lin, Mu; Zhuo, Lian-Gang; Yu, Zhi-Xiang

2010-06-04

A novel Rh(I)-catalyzed [(3 + 2) + 1] cycloaddition, which can be regarded as a homologous Pauson-Khand reaction, was developed to synthesize bicyclic cyclohexenones and cyclohexanones, enabling a new approach for synthesis of six-membered carbocycles ubiquitously found in natural products and pharmaceutics. The significance of the Rh-catalyzed [(3 + 2) + 1] cycloaddition has been demonstrated by the total synthesis of a furanoid sesquiterpene natural product, alpha-agarofuran, in which the bicyclic skeleton was constructed by the [(3 + 2) + 1] reaction of 1-yne-VCP and CO.

Lens proteome map and alpha-crystallin profile of the catfish Rita rita.

PubMed

Mohanty, Bimal Prasanna; Bhattacharjee, Soma; Das, Manas Kumar

2011-02-01

Crystallins are a diverse group of proteins that constitute nearly 90% of the total soluble proteins of the vertebrate eye lens and these tightly packed crystallins are responsible for transparency of the lens. These proteins have been studied in different model and non-model species for understanding the modifications they undergo with ageing that lead to cataract, a disease of protein aggregation. In the present investigation, we studied the lens crystallin profile of the tropical freshwater catfish Rita rita. Profiles of lens crystallins were analyzed and crystallin proteome maps of Rita rita were generated for the first time. alphaA-crystallins, member of the alpha-crystallin family, which are molecular chaperons and play crucial role in maintaining lens transparency were identified by 1- and 2-D immunoblot analysis with anti-alphaA-crystallin antibody. Two protein bands of 19-20 kDa were identified as alphaA-crystallins on 1-D immunoblots and these bands separated into 10 discrete spots on 2-D immunoblot. However, anti-alphaB-crystallin and antiphospho-alphaB-crystallin antibodies were not able to detect any immunoreactive bands on 1- and 2-D immunoblots, indicating alphaB-crystallin was either absent or present in extremely low concentration in Rita rita lens. Thus, Rita rita alpha-crystallins are more like that of the catfish Clarias batrachus and the mammal kangaroo in its alphaA- and alphaB-crystallin content (contain low amount from 5-9% of alphaB-crystallin) and unlike the dogfish, zebrafish, human, bovine and mouse alpha-crystallins (contain higher amount of alphaB-crystallin from 25% in mouse and bovine to 85% in dogfish). Results of the present study can be the baseline information for stimulating further investigation on Rita rita lens crystallins for comparative lens proteomics. Comparing and contrasting the alpha-crystallins of the dogfish and Rita rita may provide valuable information on the functional attributes of alphaA- and alphaB-isoforms, as they are at the two extremes in terms of alphaA-and alphaB-crystallin content.

Cleaning Products and Air Fresheners: Emissions and ResultingConcentrations of Glycol Ethers and Terpenoids

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

Singer, Brett C.; Destaillat, Hugo; Hodgson, Alfred T.

2005-08-01

Experiments were conducted to quantify emissions and concentrations of glycol ethers and terpenoids from cleaning product and air freshener use in a 50-m{sup 3} room ventilated at {approx}0.5 h{sup -1}. Five cleaning products were applied full-strength (FS); three were additionally used in dilute solution. FS application of pine-oil cleaner (POC) yielded 1-h concentrations of 10-1300 {micro}g m{sup -3} for individual terpenoids, including {alpha}-terpinene (90-120), d-limonene (1000-1100), terpinolene (900-1300), and {alpha}-terpineol (260-700). One-hour concentrations of 2-butoxyethanol and/or dlimonene were 300-6000 {micro}g m{sup -3} after FS use of other products. During FS application including rinsing with sponge and wiping with towels, fractionalmore » emissions (mass volatilized/dispensed) of 2-butoxyethanol and d-limonene were 50-100% with towels retained, {approx}25-50% when towels were removed after cleaning. Lower fractions (2-11%) resulted from dilute use. Fractional emissions of terpenes from FS use of POC were {approx}35-70% with towels retained, 20-50% with towels removed. During floor cleaning with dilute solution of POC, 7-12% of dispensed terpenes were emitted. Terpene alcohols were emitted at lower fractions: 7-30% (FS, towels retained), 2-9% (FS, towels removed), and 2-5% (dilute). During air-freshener use, d-limonene, dihydromyrcenol, linalool, linalyl acetate, and {beta}-citronellol were emitted at 35-180 mg d{sup -1} over three days while air concentrations averaged 30-160 {micro}g m{sup -3}.« less

Abnormal TNF-alpha production in diabetes-prone BB rats: enhanced TNF-alpha expression and defective PGE2 feedback inhibition.

PubMed Central

Rothe, H; Ongören, C; Martin, S; Rösen, P; Kolb, H

1994-01-01

Upon stimulation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), peritoneal macrophages from diabetes-prone Bio-Breeding (BB) rats secrete more tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) than macrophages from diabetes-resistant BB or normal Wistar rats. Enhanced transcription was demonstrated by Northern blot analysis and at the single cell level by mRNA: RNA hybridization. Cytofluorometry analysis showed 2-4 times more plasma membrane and total cell-associated TNF-alpha in macrophages of diabetes-prone BB rats. The analysis of fluorescence intensity showed a single peak, and TNF-alpha mRNA was found in > 90% of macrophages. These findings exclude TNF hypersecretion as being due to an abnormal subfraction of cells. TNF-alpha gene hyperexpression in diabetes-prone BB rats was not due to mutations in the regulatory regions of the promoter, which could be shown by cloning and sequencing of the TNF-alpha promoter in the three rat strains. When searching for other regulatory defects we found the production of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in response to LPS to be up to 10 times lower in macrophages from diabetes-prone BB rats than from Wistar rats. Furthermore, BB rats macrophages required significantly higher concentrations of PGE2 for suppression of TNF-alpha secretion. We conclude that abnormal TNF-alpha production in macrophages from diabetes-prone BB rats is due to enhanced gene transcription and translation and that this is associated with defective PGE2 feedback inhibition. Images Figure 1 Figure 2 PMID:8206514

alpha Arg-237 in Methylophilus methylotrophus (sp. W3A1) electron-transferring flavoprotein affords approximately 200-millivolt stabilization of the FAD anionic semiquinone and a kinetic block on full reduction to the dihydroquinone.

PubMed

Talfournier, F; Munro, A W; Basran, J; Sutcliffe, M J; Daff, S; Chapman, S K; Scrutton, N S

2001-06-08

The midpoint reduction potentials of the FAD cofactor in wild-type Methylophilus methylotrophus (sp. W3A1) electron-transferring flavoprotein (ETF) and the alphaR237A mutant were determined by anaerobic redox titration. The FAD reduction potential of the oxidized-semiquinone couple in wild-type ETF (E'(1)) is +153 +/- 2 mV, indicating exceptional stabilization of the flavin anionic semiquinone species. Conversion to the dihydroquinone is incomplete (E'(2) < -250 mV), because of the presence of both kinetic and thermodynamic blocks on full reduction of the FAD. A structural model of ETF (Chohan, K. K., Scrutton, N. S., and Sutcliffe, M. J. (1998) Protein Pept. Lett. 5, 231-236) suggests that the guanidinium group of Arg-237, which is located over the si face of the flavin isoalloxazine ring, plays a key role in the exceptional stabilization of the anionic semiquinone in wild-type ETF. The major effect of exchanging alphaArg-237 for Ala in M. methylotrophus ETF is to engineer a remarkable approximately 200-mV destabilization of the flavin anionic semiquinone (E'(2) = -31 +/- 2 mV, and E'(1) = -43 +/- 2 mV). In addition, reduction to the FAD dihydroquinone in alphaR237A ETF is relatively facile, indicating that the kinetic block seen in wild-type ETF is substantially removed in the alphaR237A ETF. Thus, kinetic (as well as thermodynamic) considerations are important in populating the redox forms of the protein-bound flavin. Additionally, we show that electron transfer from trimethylamine dehydrogenase to alphaR237A ETF is severely compromised, because of impaired assembly of the electron transfer complex.

Nitric oxide production and monoamine oxidase activity in cancer patients during interferon-alpha therapy.

PubMed

Fekkes, Durk; Van Gool, Arthur R; Bannink, Marjolein; Sleijfer, Stefan; Kruit, Wim H J; van der Holt, Bronno; Eggermont, Alexander M M; Hengeveld, Michiel W; Stoter, Gerrit

2009-10-01

Both increased and decreased nitric oxide (NO) synthesis have been reported in patients treated with interferon-alpha (IFN-alpha). Animal studies showed that IFN-alpha administration results in increased levels of biogenic amines, subsequent activation of monoamine oxidases (MAOs), and finally in a change in NO production due to the H(2)O(2) generated by MAOs. We examined the potential relationship between NO production in plasma and MAO-B activity in platelets of 43 cancer patients during 8 weeks of treatment with IFN-alpha. NO synthesis was quantitated by measuring both the ratio of citrulline and arginine (CIT/ARG-ratio) and total nitrite/nitrate (NOx) levels. Compared to baseline, MAO activity and NOx increased, while the CIT/ARG-ratio decreased. No associations were found between NOx, MAO and CIT/ARG-ratio. Only few associations were observed between changes in the biochemical parameters and changes in psychopathology induced by IFN-alpha, of which the association between changes in CIT and lassitude was the most consistent. The results suggest that peripheral NO production and MAO activity are unrelated to each other, and that peripheral changes in these biochemical parameters induced by IFN-alpha are unlikely to contribute to definite psychiatric disturbance.

Measurements of geomagnetically trapped alpha particles, 1968-1970. I - Quiet time distributions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Krimigis, S. M.; Verzariu, P.

1973-01-01

Results of observations of geomagnetically trapped alpha particles over the energy range from 1.18 to 8 MeV performed with the aid of the Injun 5 polar-orbiting satellite during the period from September 1968 to May 1970. Following a presentation of a time history covering this entire period, a detailed analysis is made of the magnetically quiet period from Feb. 11 to 28, 1970. During this period the alpha particle fluxes and the intensity ratio of alpha particles to protons attained their lowest values in approximately 20 months; the alpha particle intensity versus L profile was most similar to the proton profile at the same energy per nucleon interval; the intensity ratio was nearly constant as a function of L in the same energy per nucleon representation, but rose sharply with L when computed in the same total energy interval; the variation of alpha particle intensity with B suggested a steep angular distribution at small equatorial pitch angles, while the intensity ratio showed little dependence on B; and the alpha particle spectral parameter showed a markedly different dependence on L from the equivalent one for protons.

Recombinant expression and purification of a tumor-targeted toxin in Bacillus anthracis

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

Bachran, Christopher; Abdelazim, Suzanne; Fattah, Rasem J.

Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Non-infectious and protease-deficient Bacillus anthracis protein expression system. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Successful expression and purification of a tumor-targeted fusion protein drug. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Very low endotoxin contamination of purified protein. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Efficient protein secretion simplifies purification. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Functional anti-tumor fusion protein purified. -- Abstract: Many recombinant therapeutic proteins are purified from Escherichia coli. While expression in E. coli is easily achieved, some disadvantages such as protein aggregation, formation of inclusion bodies, and contamination of purified proteins with the lipopolysaccharides arise. Lipopolysaccharides have to be removed to prevent inflammatory responses in patients. Use of the Gram-positive Bacillus anthracis as an expression hostmore » offers a solution to circumvent these problems. Using the multiple protease-deficient strain BH460, we expressed a fusion of the N-terminal 254 amino acids of anthrax lethal factor (LFn), the N-terminal 389 amino acids of diphtheria toxin (DT389) and human transforming growth factor alpha (TGF{alpha}). The resulting fusion protein was constitutively expressed and successfully secreted by B. anthracis into the culture supernatant. Purification was achieved by anion exchange chromatography and proteolytic cleavage removed LFn from the desired fusion protein (DT389 fused to TGF{alpha}). The fusion protein showed the intended specific cytotoxicity to epidermal growth factor receptor-expressing human head and neck cancer cells. Final analyses showed low levels of lipopolysaccharides, originating most likely from contamination during the purification process. Thus, the fusion to LFn for protein secretion and expression in B. anthracis BH460 provides an elegant tool to obtain high levels of lipopolysaccharide-free recombinant protein.« less

Effect of breeding protocols and reproductive tract score on reproductive performance of dairy heifers and economic outcome of breeding programs.

PubMed

Stevenson, J L; Rodrigues, J A; Braga, F A; Bitente, S; Dalton, J C; Santos, J E P; Chebel, R C

2008-09-01

The objectives of this study were to evaluate the effect of reproductive protocols and reproductive tract score on reproductive performance of dairy heifers and economic outcomes of breeding programs. Holstein heifers (n = 534), 13 +/- 1 mo of age, were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 reproductive protocols. On the day of enrollment (d 0), heifers were palpated per rectum and received a score according to the maturity of their reproductive tract (1 = prepubertal; 2 = peripubertal; and 3 = puber-tal). Estrous detection-control heifers (CON, n = 146) received no treatment and were inseminated on detection of estrus for 28 d. Prostaglandin F(2alpha)-treated heifers (PGED, n = 137) received 1 injection of PGF(2alpha) on d 0 and were inseminated on detection of estrus; heifers not in-seminated by d 14 received a second injection of PGF(2alpha) and were observed for estrus and artificial insemination (AI) for an additional 14 d. Heifers enrolled in the estrous detection-timed AI (EDTAI, n = 140) treatment received a controlled internal drug-release (CIDR) insert on d 0, and 7 d later, the CIDR was removed and all heifers received an injection of PGF(2alpha), heifers received AI on detection of estrus, and those not inseminated by 72 h after PGF(2alpha) received an injection of GnRH concurrent with AI. Heifers in the GnRH-timed AI (GTAI, n = 111) treatment received 1 injection of GnRH on d 0, on d 6 heifers received a CIDR insert and injections of GnRH and PGF(2alpha), on d 13 the CIDR was removed and heifers received an injection of PGF(2alpha), and 48 h later all heifers received an injection of GnRH and AI. Pregnancy was diagnosed at 32 +/- 3 and 62 +/- 3 d after AI. Cost of reproductive protocols and their economic outcomes were calculated for a 28 d period beginning at enrollment. Heifers in the PGED treatment were inseminated at a faster rate than CON heifers. A smaller proportion of prepubertal and peripubertal heifers were inseminated within 14 d of enrollment compared with pubertal heifers. Pregnancy per AI of CON and PGED heifers was greater compared with EDTAI and GTAI heifers. Proportion of GTAI heifers pregnant at the end of the 28-d breeding program was or tended to be smaller compared with PGED and CON heifers, respectively. Heifers in the CON and PGED treatments had the smallest cost per pregnancy followed by heifers in the EDTAI and GTAI treatments, respectively. When different scenarios were evaluated, however, the mean cost per pregnancy was smallest for PGED heifers. Cost per pregnancy generated was greatest for prepubertal heifers, whereas pubertal heifers had the smallest cost per pregnancy generated. Treatment of dairy heifers with PGF(2alpha) every 14 d until insemination and pregnancy results in the best economic outcomes, and screening heifers according to RTS may prove beneficial to identify heifers that may not be pubertal and would have compromised reproductive and economic performance in a breeding program.

Environmental, genetic and social factors affecting the expression of estrus in beef cows.

PubMed

Landaeta-Hernández, Antonio J; Yelich, Joel V; Lemaster, J Willard; Fields, Michael J; Tran, Than; Chase, Chad C; Rae, D Owen; Chenoweth, Peter J

2002-03-01

Genetic, social and environmental factors affecting behavioral estrus were evaluated in Angus (n = 10), Brahman (n = 10) and Senepol (n = 10) cows during a PGF2alpha synchronized estrus and subsequent spontaneous estrus. Cows were equally stratified by breed to two groups of 15. Both groups were pre-synchronized with a modified two-injection PGF2alpha protocol. At the start of the experiment, cows were treated with 25 mg PGF2alpha followed by a second and third administration of 12.5 mg PGF2alpha, 11 and 12 days later to induce synchronized estrus. The subsequent estrus was designated as spontaneous estrus. Behavioral estrus data including the onset and end of estrus, estrous duration and the total number of mounts received for the synchronized and spontaneous estruses were collected using HeatWatch". Interval from the third PGF2alpha, treatment to the onset of a HeatWatch" estrus occurred earlier (P < 0.05) in Angus (31 +/- 5 h) than Brahman (53 +/- 7 h) or Senepol (53 +/- 4 h) cows, with dominant Senepol and Brahman cows taking longer to exhibit estrus after PGF2alpha than subordinate cows. The duration of the synchronized estrus tended to be shorter (P < 0.06) in Senepol (12 +/- 3 h) than in Angus (19 +/- 2 h) or Brahman (17 +/- 2 h) cows. Behavioral estrus data between the two periods were confounded by greater temperature-humidity index (THI) values during spontaneous estrus. The THI during spontaneous estrus appeared (P = 0.09) to affect the duration of estrus (9 +/- 1 h versus 16 +/- 1 h) and did affect (P < 0.0001) the total number of mounts received (8 +/- 4 mounts versus 34 +/- 4 mounts) during spontaneous estrus compared to synchronized estrus. Breed had no effect (P > 0.10) on the duration and total number of mounts received during synchronized and spontaneous estruses. In conclusion, type of estrus (synchronized or spontaneous), THI, social dominance and breed exerted significant effects on characteristics associated with behavioral estrus in beef cattle in subtropical environments.

Collisional relaxation of an isotopic, strongly magnetized pure ion plasma and topics in resonant wave-particle interaction of plasmas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chim, Chi Yung

First in Chapter 2, we discuss the collisional relaxation of a strongly magnetized pure ion plasma that is composed of two species with slightly different masses, but both with singly-ionized atoms. In a limit of high cyclotron frequencies O j, the total cyclotron action Ij for the two species are adiabatic invariants. In a few collisions, maximizing entropy yields a modified Gibbs distribution of the form exp[-H/T ∥-alpha1 I 1-alpha2I2]. Here, H is the total Hamiltonian and alphaj's are related to parallel and perpendicular temperatures through T ⊥j=(1/T∥ +alphaj/Oj) -1. On a longer timescale, the two species share action so that alpha 1 and alpha2 relax to a common value alpha. On an even longer timescale, the total action ceases to be a constant of the motion and alpha relaxes to zero. Next, weak transport produces a low density halo of electrons moving radially outward from the pure electron plasma core, and the m = 1 mode begins to damp algebraically when the halo reaches the wall. The damping rate is proportional to the particle flux through the resonant layer at the wall. Chapter 3 explains analytically the new algebraic damping due to both mobility and diffusion transport. Electrons swept around the resonant "cat's eye" orbits form a dipole (m = 1) density distribution, setting up a field that produces ExB-drift of the core back to the axis, that is, damps the mode. Finally, Chapter 4 provides a simple mechanistic interpretation of the resonant wave-particle interaction of Landau. For the simple case of a Vlasov plasma oscillation, the non-resonant electrons are driven resonantly by the bare electric field from the resonant electrons, and this complex driver field is of a phase to reduce the oscillation amplitude. The wave-particle resonant interaction also occurs in 2D ExB-drift waves, such as a diocotron wave. In this case, the bare electric field from the resonant electrons causes ExB-drift motion back in the core plasma, thus damping the wave.

EF-1 alpha is a target site for an inhibitory effect of quercetin in the peptide elongation process.

PubMed

Marcinkiewicz, C; Gałasiński, W; Gindzieński, A

1995-01-01

The effect of quercetin (3,3',4',5,7-pentahydroxyflavone) on the polypeptide elongation system isolated from rat liver cells, was investigated. Quercetin inhibited [14C]leucine incorporation into proteins in vitro and the inhibitory effect is being directed towards the elongation factor eEF-1, but not to eEF-2 and ribosomes. Quercetin was found to form a complex with EF-1 alpha, which was inactive in GTP-dependent binding to ribosomes. It can be suggested that quercetin can block the total or the part of the domain of EF-1 alpha structure that is responsible for formation of the ternary complex EF-1 alpha-GTP-[14C]Phe-tRNA and therefore preventing formation of the quaternary complex with ribosomes.

Primary structure of the hemoglobin alpha-chain of rose-ringed parakeet (Psittacula krameri).

PubMed

Islam, A; Beg, O U; Persson, B; Zaidi, Z H; Jörnvall, H

1988-10-01

The structure of the hemoglobin alpha-chain of Rose-ringed Parakeet was determined by sequence degradations of the intact subunit, the CNBr fragments, and peptides obtained by digestion with staphylococcal Glu-specific protease and trypsin. Using this analysis, the complete alpha-chain structure of 21 avian species is known, permitting comparisons of the protein structure and of avian relationships. The structure exhibits differences from previously established avian alpha-chains at a total of 61 positions, five of which have residues unique to those of the parakeet (Ser-12, Gly-65, Ser-67, Ala-121, and Leu-134). The analysis defines hemoglobin variation within an additional avian order (Psittaciformes), demonstrates distant patterns for evaluation of relationships within other avian orders, and lends support to taxonomic conclusions from molecular data.

SHH-dependent knockout of HIF-1 alpha accelerates the degenerative process in mouse intervertebral disc.

PubMed

Wu, W J; Zhang, X K; Zheng, X F; Yang, Y H; Jiang, S D; Jiang, L S

2013-01-01

Hypoxia-inducible factor-1alpha (HIF-1 alpha) has been reported to have an important role in the metabolism and synthesis of extracellular matrix of the nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs) and was assumed to be involved in the process of intervertebral disc degeneration. The objective of this study was to investigate the role of HIF-1alpha in disc degeneration in vivo using a conditional HIF-1alpha knockout (KO) mouse model. ShhCre transgenic mice were mated with HIF-1 alpha fl/fl mice to generate conditional HIF-1alpha KO mice (HIF-1alpha fl/fl-ShhCre+). Three mice of each genotype (Wide-type and HIF-1alpha KO) at the age of 3 days, 6, and 12 weeks were sacrificed after genotyping. Five lumbar disc samples were harvested from each mouse, with a total of 45 disc samples for each genotype. In situ hybridization and immunohistochemical analysis were used to check the efficacy of HIF-1alpha knockout. Histological grading of the disc degeneration was performed according to the classification system proposed by Boos et al. Picro-sirius red staining, Safranine O/fast green staining and immunohistochemical study were used to evaluate the expression of aggrecan, type-II collagen and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Histologic analysis revealed more NPC deaths and signs of degeneration in HIF-1alpha KO mice and the degeneration scores of HIF-1alpha KO mice were significantly higher than those of the Wide-type mice at the age of 6 weeks and 12 weeks. There were less expressions of aggrecan, type-II collagen and VEGF in the intervertebral discs of HIF1-alpha KO mice than in those of wild-type mice. Taken together, the results of our study indicated that HIF-1alpha is a pivotal contributor to NPC survival and the homeotasis of extracellular matrix through the HIF-1alpha/VEGF signaling pathway, and plays an important role in the development of disc degeneration.

Total Quality Management (TQM): Group Dynamics Workshop

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-05-15

interactions with other OSD decision-making bodies. " Remove barriers /facilitate implementation. " Direct action on unresolved process problems referred...TQM leadership. - Total Quality Management FUNCTIONS: * Translate goals to tangible internal initiatives. " Remove barriers . " Establish and...Quality Management FUNCTIONS: • Identify and remove barriers . " Develop practical process improvements. " Install solutions and measurement systems for

The Denitrification Characteristics and Microbial Community in the Cathode of an MFC with Aerobic Denitrification at High Temperatures.

PubMed

Zhao, Jianqiang; Wu, Jinna; Li, Xiaoling; Wang, Sha; Hu, Bo; Ding, Xiaoqian

2017-01-01

Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) have attracted much attention due to their ability to generate electricity while treating wastewater. The performance of a double-chamber MFC with simultaneous nitrification and denitrification (SND) in the cathode for treating synthetic high concentration ammonia wastewater was investigated at different dissolved oxygen (DO) concentrations and high temperatures. The results showed that electrode denitrification and traditional heterotrophic denitrification co-existed in the cathode chamber. Electrode denitrification by aerobic denitrification bacterium (ADB) is beneficial for achieving a higher voltage of the MFC at high DO concentrations (3.0-4.2 mg/L), while traditional heterotrophic denitrification is conducive to higher total nitrogen (TN) removal at low DO (0.5-1.0 mg/L) concentrations. Under high DO conditions, the nitrous oxide production and TN removal efficiency were higher with a 50 Ω external resistance than with a 100 Ω resistance, which demonstrated that electrode denitrification by ADB occurred in the cathode of the MFC. Sufficient electrons were inferred to be provided by the electrode to allow ADB survival at low carbon:nitrogen ratios (≤0.3). Polymerase chain reaction-denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (PCR-DGGE) results showed that increasing the DO resulted in a change of the predominant species from thermophilic autotrophic nitrifiers and facultative heterotrophic denitrifiers at low DO concentrations to thermophilic ADB at high DO concentrations. The predominant phylum changed from Firmicutes to Proteobacteria , and the predominant class changed from Bacilli to Alpha, Beta , and Gamma Proteobacteria .

Altered cortisol metabolism in polycystic ovary syndrome: insulin enhances 5alpha-reduction but not the elevated adrenal steroid production rates.

PubMed

Tsilchorozidou, Tasoula; Honour, John W; Conway, Gerard S

2003-12-01

Androgen excess in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) may be ovarian and/or adrenal in origin, and one proposed contributing mechanism is altered cortisol metabolism. Increased peripheral metabolism of cortisol may occur by enhanced inactivation of cortisol by 5alpha-reductase (5alpha-R) or impaired reactivation of cortisol from cortisone by 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11beta-HSD1) resulting in decreased negative feedback suppression of ACTH secretion maintaining normal plasma cortisol concentrations at the expense of androgen excess. We have tested whether any enzyme dysregulation was related to circulating insulin or androgen concentrations in women with PCOS and have sought to clarify their relationship with obesity. First, to avoid obesity-related effects on cortisol metabolism, 18 lean women with PCOS were compared with 19 lean controls who were closely matched for body mass index (BMI). Second, the impact of obesity was studied in a cross-section of 42 PCOS women of a broad range of BMI. We measured 24-h urinary excretion of steroid metabolites by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry and fasting metabolic and hormone profiles. Urinary excretion of androgens [androsterone (P = 0.003), etiocholanolone (P = 0.02), and C19 steroid sulfates (P = 0.009)], cortisone metabolites [tetrahydrocortisone (THE) (P = 0.02), alpha-cortolone (P < 0.001), beta-cortol + beta-cortolone (P < 0.001), cortolones (P < 0.001), and E metabolites (P < 0.001)], and TCM (P = 0.002) were raised in lean PCOS subjects when compared with controls. A significantly higher 5alpha-tetrahydrocortisol (5alpha-THF)/5beta-THF ratio (P = 0.04) and a significantly lower alpha-THF + THF + alpha-cortol/THE + cortolones ratio (P = 0.01) were found in lean PCOS women compared with lean controls, indicating both enhanced 5alpha-R and reduced 11beta-HSD1 activities. A decreased THE/cortolones ratio (P = 0.03) was also found in lean PCOS women compared with lean controls, indicating increased 20 alpha/beta-HSD activity. In the group of 42 PCOS subjects, measures of 5alpha/5beta reduction were positively correlated with the homeostasis model insulin resistance index (HOMA-R): alpha-THF/THF and HOMA-R (r = 0.34; P = 0.03), androsterone/etiocholanolone and HOMA-R (r = 0.32; P = 0.04), and total 5alpha /total 5beta and HOMA-R (r = 0.37; P = 0.02). A positive correlation was also found between measures of 5alpha-R and BMI (r = 0.37; P = 0.02). No correlation was found between measures of 11beta-HSD1 activity and indices of insulin sensitivity or BMI. We have demonstrated that there is an increased production rate of cortisol and androgens as measured in vivo in lean PCOS women. Insulin seems to enhance 5alpha reduction of steroids in PCOS but was not associated with the elevated cortisol production rate. The changes in 5alpha-R, 11beta-HSD1, and 20alpha/beta-HSD enzyme activities observed in PCOS may contribute to the increased production rates of cortisol and androgens, supporting the concept of a widespread dysregulation of steroid metabolism. This dysregulation does not seem to be the primary cause of PCOS because no correlation was found between serum androgen levels or urinary excretion of androgens with measurements of either 5alpha-R or 11beta-HSD1 activities.

Characterization of endocrine events during the periestrous period in sheep after estrous synchronization with controlled internal drug release (CIDR) device.

PubMed

Van Cleeff, J; Karsch, F J; Padmanabhan, V

1998-01-01

The Controlled Internal Drug Releasing (CIDR) device is an intravaginal pessary containing progesterone (P4) designed for synchronizing estrus in ruminants. To date, there has been little information available on the timing, duration, and quality of the follicular phase after CIDR removal and how those characteristics compare with natural periovulatory endocrine events. The present communication relates the results of methods we used to characterize the endocrine events that followed CIDR synchronization. Breeding-season ewes were given an injection (10 mg) of Lutalyse (PGF2 alpha), and then studied during three consecutive estrous cycles, beginning in the luteal phase after the estrus induced by PGF2 alpha. Cycle 1 estrus was synchronized with 1 CIDR (Type G) inserted for 8 d beginning 10 d after PGF2 alpha. Cycles 2 and 3 were synchronized with two CIDRs for 8 d beginning 10 d after previous CIDR removal. Cycle 1 estrous behavior and serum gonadotropins showed a follicular phase (the interval from CIDR withdrawal to gonadotropin surge [surge] peak) of 38.2 +/- 1.5 hr. Two CIDRs lengthened the interval to 46.2 +/- 1.5 hr (P < 0.0001). At CIDR removal, circulating P4 concentrations were higher in ewes treated with two CIDRs (5.1 +/- 0.3 and 6.4 +/- 0.4 ng/mL in Cycles 2 and 3 vs. 2.7 +/- 0.3 ng/mL in Cycle 1), whereas estradiol concentrations were higher in the 1 CIDR cycle (3.3 +/- 0.5 pg/mL in Cycle 1 vs. 0.5 +/- 0.1, and 0.7 +/- 0.2 pg/mL in Cycles 2 and 3), suggesting that the lower levels of P4 achieved with one CIDR was not sufficient to arrest follicular development. There were no differences in any other endocrine variable. Both one and two CIDR synchronization concentrated surges within a 24-hr period in 92% of the ewes in Cycles 1 and 2. Cycles 3 ewes were euthanized at estimated luteal, early follicular, late follicular, LH surge, and secondary FSH rise timepoints. Endocrine data and ovaries showed that 88% of the ewes synchronized with two CIDRs were in the predicted stage of the estrous cycle. These data demonstrate that the CIDR device applied during the luteal phase effectively synchronizes estrus and results in a CIDR removal-to-surge interval of similar length to a natural follicular phase.

Network Meta-Analysis of the Efficacy of Acupuncture, Alpha-blockers and Antibiotics on Chronic Prostatitis/Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome

PubMed Central

Qin, Zongshi; Wu, Jiani; Tian, Jinhui; Zhou, Jing; Liu, Yali; Liu, Zhishun

2016-01-01

Alpha-blockers and antibiotics are most commonly used to treat chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) in clinical practice. Currently, increasing evidence also suggests acupuncture as an effective strategy. This network meta-analysis intended to assess the comparative efficacy and safety of acupuncture, alpha-blockers and antibiotics for CP/CPPS. Twelve trials involving 1203 participants were included. Based on decreases in the National Institutes of Health Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index (NIH-CPSI) score, a network meta-analysis indicated that electro-acupuncture (standard mean difference [SMD]: 4.29; 95% credible interval [CrI], 1.96–6.65), acupuncture (SMD: 3.69; 95% CrI, 0.27–7.17), alpha-blockers (SMD: 1.85; 95% CrI, 1.07–2.64), antibiotics (SMD: 2.66; 95% CrI, 1.57–3.76), and dual therapy (SMD: 3.20; 95% CrI, 1.95–4.42) are superior to placebo in decreasing this score. Additionally, electro-acupuncture (SMD: 2.44; 95% CrI, 0.08–4.83) and dual therapy (SMD: 1.35; 95% CrI, 0.07–2.62) were more effective than alpha-blockers in decreasing the total NIH-CPSI total score. Other network meta-analyses did not show significant differences between interventions other placebo. The incidence of adverse events of acupuncture was relatively rare (5.4%) compared with placebo (17.1%), alpha-blockers (24.9%), antibiotics (31%) and dual therapy (48.6%). Overall, rank tests and safety analyses indicate that electro-acupuncture/acupuncture may be recommended for the treatment of CP/CPPS. PMID:27759111

Co-operative actions and degradation analysis of purified xylan-degrading enzymes from Thermomonospora fusca BD25 on oat-spelt xylan.

PubMed

Tuncer, M; Ball, A S

2003-01-01

To determine and quantify the products from the degradation of xylan by a range of purified xylan-degrading enzymes, endoxylanase, beta-xylosidase and alpha-l-arabinofuranosidase produced extracellularly by Thermomonospora fusca BD25. The amounts of reducing sugars released from oat-spelt xylan by the actions of endoxylanase, beta-xylosidase and alpha-l-arabinofuranosidase were equal to 28.1, 4.6 and 7% hydrolysis (as xylose equivalents) of the substrate used, respectively. However, addition of beta-xylosidase and alpha-l-arabinofuranosidase preparation to endoxylanase significantly enhanced (70 and 20% respectively) the action of endoxylanase on the substrate. The combination of purified endoxylanase, beta-xylosidase and alpha-l-arabinofuranosidase preparations produced a greater sugar yield (58.6% hydrolysis) and enhanced the total reducing sugar yield by around 50%. The main xylooligosaccharide products released using the action of endoxylanase alone on oat-spelt xylan were identified as xylobiose and xylopentose. alpha-l-Arabinofuranosidase was able to release arabinose and xylobiose from oat-spelt xylan. In the presence of all three purified enzymes the hydrolysis products of oat-spelt xylan were mainly xylose, arabinose and substituted xylotetrose with lesser amount of substituted xylotriose. The addition of the beta-xylosidase and alpha-l-arabinofuranosidase enzymes to purified xylanases more than doubled the degradation of xylan from 28 to 58% of the total substrate with xylose and arabinose being the major sugars produced. The results highlight the role of xylan de-branching enzymes in the degradation of xylan and suggest that the use of enzyme cocktails may significantly improve the hydrolysis of xylan in industrial processes.

Salacia oblonga root improves postprandial hyperlipidemia and hepatic steatosis in Zucker diabetic fatty rats: Activation of PPAR-{alpha}

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

Hsun-Wei Huang, Tom; Peng Gang; Qian Li, George

Salacia oblonga (SO) root is an Ayurvedic medicine with anti-diabetic and anti-obese properties. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-{alpha}, a nuclear receptor, plays an important role in maintaining the homeostasis of lipid metabolism. Here, we demonstrate that chronic oral administration of the water extract from the root of SO to Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats, a genetic model of type 2 diabetes and obesity, lowered plasma triglyceride and total cholesterol (TC) levels, increased plasma high-density lipoprotein levels and reduced the liver contents of triglyceride, non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) and the ratio of fatty droplets to total tissue. By contrast, the extract hadmore » no effect on plasma triglyceride and TC levels in fasted ZDF rats. After olive oil administration to ZDF the extract also inhibited the increase in plasma triglyceride levels. These results suggest that SO extract improves postprandial hyperlipidemia and hepatic steatosis in ZDF rats. Additionally, SO treatment enhanced hepatic expression of PPAR-{alpha} mRNA and protein, and carnitine palmitoyltransferase-1 and acyl-CoA oxidase mRNAs in ZDF rats. In vitro, SO extract and its main component mangiferin activated PPAR-{alpha} luciferase activity in human embryonic kidney 293 cells and lipoprotein lipase mRNA expression and enzyme activity in THP-1 differentiated macrophages; these effects were completely suppressed by a selective PPAR-{alpha} antagonist MK-886. The findings from both in vivo and in vitro suggest that SO extract functions as a PPAR-{alpha} activator, providing a potential mechanism for improvement of postprandial hyperlipidemia and hepatic steatosis in diabetes and obesity.« less

Local conformational dynamics in alpha-helices measured by fast triplet transfer.

PubMed

Fierz, Beat; Reiner, Andreas; Kiefhaber, Thomas

2009-01-27

Coupling fast triplet-triplet energy transfer (TTET) between xanthone and naphthylalanine to the helix-coil equilibrium in alanine-based peptides allowed the observation of local equilibrium fluctuations in alpha-helices on the nanoseconds to microseconds time scale. The experiments revealed faster helix unfolding in the terminal regions compared with the central parts of the helix with time constants varying from 250 ns to 1.4 micros at 5 degrees C. Local helix formation occurs with a time constant of approximately 400 ns, independent of the position in the helix. Comparing the experimental data with simulations using a kinetic Ising model showed that the experimentally observed dynamics can be explained by a 1-dimensional boundary diffusion with position-independent elementary time constants of approximately 50 ns for the addition and of approximately 65 ns for the removal of an alpha-helical segment. The elementary time constant for helix growth agrees well with previously measured time constants for formation of short loops in unfolded polypeptide chains, suggesting that helix elongation is mainly limited by a conformational search.

Evaluation of the use of reverse osmosis to eliminate natural radionuclides from water samples.

PubMed

Nieto, Antonio; Palomo, Marta; Ruana, Josep; Peñalver, Alejandra; Aguilar, Carme; Borrull, Francesc

2013-12-01

The objective of drinking water treatment plants (DWTP) is to supply the population with tap water that is in optimal condition and in compliance with water quality regulations. In the DWTP of L'Ampolla (Tarragona, Spain), slightly high values of gross alpha activity and the amount of salts in the raw water have been observed. Conventional treatment has reduced these levels only minimally. This study tested a tertiary treatment based on reverse osmosis is tested in an industrial pilot plant (240 m3/day) The efficiency of this pilot plant to reduce the gross alpha and beta activities and the activity of some individual radioisotopes (U(238), U(234), U(235) and Ra(226)) was tested. Results showed that the elimination of alpha emitters was greater than 90%, whereas the elimination of beta emitters was about 35%. Overall, the data provided evidence that the pilot plant is effective for removing different radionuclides that can be present in the incoming water treated. Therefore, tertiary treatment based on reverse osmosis has a positive effect in water quality.

Creatine kinase and alpha-actin mRNA levels decrease in diabetic rat hearts

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

Popovich, B.; Barrieux, A.; Dillmann, W.H.

1987-05-01

Diabetic cardiomyopathy is associated with cardiac atrophy and isoenzyme redistribution. To determine if tissue specific changes occur in mRNAs coding for ..cap alpha..-actin and creatine kinase (CK), they performed RNA blot analysis. Total ventricular RNA from control (C) and 4 wk old diabetic (D) rats were hybridized with /sup 32/P cDNA probes for ..cap alpha..-actin and CK. A tissue independent cDNA probe, CHOA was also used. Signal intensity was quantified by photodensitometry. D CK mRNA was 47 +/- 16% lower in D vs C. Insulin increases CK mRNA by 20% at 1.5 hs, and completely reverses the deficit after 4more » wks. D ..cap alpha..-actin mRNA is 66 +/- 18% lower in D vs C. Insulin normalized ..cap alpha..-actin mRNA by 5 hs. CHOA mRNA is unchanged in D vs C, but D + insulin CHOA mRNA is 30 +/- 2% lower than C. In rats with diabetic cardiomyopathy, muscle specific CK and ..cap alpha..-actin mRNAs are decreased. Insulin treatment reverses these changes.« less

Influence of somatic cell count and breed on capillary electrophoretic protein profiles of ewes' milk: a chemometric study.

PubMed

Rodríguez-Nogales, J M; Vivar-Quintana, A M; Revilla, I

2007-07-01

Bulk tank ewe milk from the Assaf, Castellana, and Churra breeds categorized into 3 somatic cell count (SCC) groups (<500,000; 1,000,000 to 1,500,000; and >2,500,000 cells/mL) was used to investigate changes in chemical composition and capillary electrophoresis protein profiles. The results obtained indicated that breed affected fat, protein, and total solids levels, and differences were also observed for the following milk proteins: beta-, beta1-, beta2-, and alpha(s1)-III-casein, alpha-lactalbumin, and beta-lactoglobulin. High SCC affected fat and protein contents and bacterial counts. The level of beta1-, beta2-, and alpha(s1)-I-casein, and alpha-lactalbumin were significantly lower in milk with SCC scores >2,500,000 cells/mL. A preliminary study of the chemical, microbiological, and electrophoretic data was performed by cluster analysis and principal components analysis. Applying discriminant analysis, it was possible to group the milk samples according to breed and level of SCC, obtaining a prediction of 100 and 97% of the samples, respectively.

Synthesis of rutherfordium isotopes in the 238U(26Mg, xn)264-xRf reaction and study of their decay properties

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

Gates, Jacklyn M; Gates, J.M.; Garcia, M.A.

2008-01-15

Isotopes of rutherfordium (258-261Rf) were produced in irradiations of 238U targets with 26Mg beams. Excitation functions were measured for the 4n, 5n and 6n exit channels. Production of 261Rf in the 3n exit channel with a cross section of 28+92-26 pb was observed. Alpha decay of 258Rf was observed for the first time with an alpha-particle energy of 9.05+-0.03 MeV and an alpha/total decay branching ratio of 0.31+-0.11. In 259Rf, the electron capture/total decay branching ratio was measured to be 0.15+-0.04. The measured half-lives for 258Rf, 259Rf and 260Rf were 14.7+1.2-1.0 ms, 2.5+0.4-0.3 s and 22.2+3.0-2.4 ms, respectively, in agreementmore » with literature data. The systematics of the alpha decay Q values and of the partial spontaneous fission half-lives were evaluated for even-even nuclides in the region of the N = 152, Z = 100 deformed shell. The influence of the N = 152 shell on the alpha decay Q values for rutherfordium was observed to be similar to that of the lighter elements (96<_ Z<_ 102). However, the N = 152 shell does not stabilize the rutherfordium isotopes against spontaneous fission, as it does in the lighter elements (96<_ Z<_102).« less

[Psychometric assessment of a brief Modern Racism Scale].

PubMed

Campo-Arias, Adalberto; Herazo, Edwin; Oviedo, Heidi C

2016-06-01

Objective To find the internal consistency of the Modern Racism Scale (MRS) among medical students in Bucaramanga, Colombia. Methods A total of 352 medical students, mean age=20.0 years (SD=1.9) reported their attitudes towards Afro-Colombians; 59.4 % were women. Students completed the 10-item version of MRS. Cronbach alpha and McDonald omega were calculated. Exploratory factor analyses were done to propose a brief version of the MRS. Results The 10-item version showed a Cronbach alpha of 0.48 and a McDonald omega of 0.15. The short version, the Brief Modern Racism Scale (BMRS) (items 1, 4, 5, 7 and 8) presented a Cronbach alpha of 0.64 and McDonald omega of 0.65. The BMRS showed one salient factor responsible of 41.6 % of the total variance. Conclusions A Spanish-language short version of the MRS shows better psychometric performance than the original version. Further study is needed to corroborate these findings or make adjustments for Colombian cultural regions.

Contributions of the N- and C-terminal helical segments to the lipid-free structure and lipid interaction of apolipoprotein A-I.

PubMed

Tanaka, Masafumi; Dhanasekaran, Padmaja; Nguyen, David; Ohta, Shinya; Lund-Katz, Sissel; Phillips, Michael C; Saito, Hiroyuki

2006-08-29

The tertiary structure of lipid-free apolipoprotein (apo) A-I in the monomeric state comprises two domains: a N-terminal alpha-helix bundle and a less organized C-terminal domain. This study examined how the N- and C-terminal segments of apoA-I (residues 1-43 and 223-243), which contain the most hydrophobic regions in the molecule and are located in opposite structural domains, contribute to the lipid-free conformation and lipid interaction. Measurements of circular dichroism in conjunction with tryptophan and 8-anilino-1-naphthalenesulfonic acid fluorescence data demonstrated that single (L230P) or triple (L230P/L233P/Y236P) proline insertions into the C-terminal alpha helix disrupted the organization of the C-terminal domain without affecting the stability of the N-terminal helix bundle. In contrast, proline insertion into the N terminus (Y18P) disrupted the bundle structure in the N-terminal domain, indicating that the alpha-helical segment in this region is part of the helix bundle. Calorimetric and gel-filtration measurements showed that disruption of the C-terminal alpha helix significantly reduced the enthalpy and free energy of binding of apoA-I to lipids, whereas disruption of the N-terminal alpha helix had only a small effect on lipid binding. Significantly, the presence of the Y18P mutation offset the negative effects of disruption/removal of the C-terminal helical domain on lipid binding, suggesting that the alpha helix around Y18 concealed a potential lipid-binding region in the N-terminal domain, which was exposed by the disruption of the helix-bundle structure. When these results are taken together, they indicate that the alpha-helical segment in the N terminus of apoA-I modulates the lipid-free structure and lipid interaction in concert with the C-terminal domain.

Potential risk of alpha-glucosidase inhibitor administration in prostate cancer external radiotherapy by exceptional rectal gas production: a case report.

PubMed

Nishimura, Takuya; Yamazaki, Hideya; Iwama, Kazuki; Oota, Yoshitaka; Aibe, Norihiro; Nakamura, Satoaki; Yoshida, Ken; Okabe, Haruumi; Yamada, Kei

2014-05-05

Radiotherapy is a standard treatment for prostate cancer, and image-guided radiotherapy is increasingly being used to aid precision of dose delivery to targeted tissues. However, precision during radiotherapy cannot be maintained when unexpected intrafraction organ motion occurs. We report our experience of internal organ motion caused by persistent gas production in a patient taking an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor. A 68-year-old Japanese man with prostate cancer visited our institution for treatment with helical tomotherapy. He suffered from diabetes mellitus and took an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor. Routine treatment planning computed tomography showed a large volume of rectal gas; an enema was given to void the rectum. Subsequent treatment planning computed tomography again showed a large volume of gas. After exercise (walking) to remove the intestinal gas, a third scan was performed as a test scan without tight fixation, which showed a sufficiently empty rectum for planning. However, after only a few minutes, treatment planning computed tomography again showed extreme accumulation of gas. Therefore, we postponed treatment planning computed tomography and consulted his doctor to suspend the alpha-glucosidase inhibitor, which was the expected cause of his persistent gas. Four days after the alpha-glucosidase inhibitor regimen was suspended, we took a fourth treatment planning computed tomography and made a treatment plan without gas accumulation. Thereafter, the absence of rectal gas accumulation was confirmed using daily megavolt computed tomography before treatment, and the patient received 37 fractions of intensity-modified radiotherapy at 74 Gy without rectal gas complications. In this case study, the alpha-glucosidase inhibitor induced the accumulation of intestinal gas, which may have caused unexpected organ motion, untoward reactions, and insufficient doses to clinical targets. We suggest that patients who are taking an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor for diabetes should discontinue use of that particular medicine prior to beginning radiotherapy.

Swanson works on the P6 Truss during EVA 2

NASA Image and Video Library

2007-06-14

S117-E-07332 (13 June 2007) --- Astronauts Steven Swanson and Patrick Forrester (out of frame), both STS-117 mission specialists, participate in the mission's second planned session of extravehicular activity (EVA), as construction resumes on the International Space Station. Among other tasks, Forrester and Swanson removed all of the launch locks holding the 10-foot-wide solar alpha rotary joint in place and began the solar array retraction.

Human dermatosparaxis: a form of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome that results from failure to remove the amino-terminal propeptide of type I procollagen.

PubMed Central

Smith, L T; Wertelecki, W; Milstone, L M; Petty, E M; Seashore, M R; Braverman, I M; Jenkins, T G; Byers, P H

1992-01-01

Dermatosparaxis is a recessively inherited connective-tissue disorder that results from lack of the activity of type I procollagen N-proteinase, the enzyme that removes the amino-terminal propeptides from type I procollagen. Initially identified in cattle more than 20 years ago, the disorder was subsequently characterized in sheep, cats, and dogs. Affected animals have fragile skin, lax joints, and often die prematurely because of sepsis following avulsion of portions of skin. We recently identified two children with soft, lax, and fragile skin, which, when examined by transmission electron microscopy, contained the twisted, ribbon-like collagen fibrils characteristic of dermatosparaxis. Skin extracts from one child contained collagen precursors with amino-terminal extensions. Cultured fibroblasts from both children failed to cleave the amino-terminal propeptides from the pro alpha 1(I) and pro alpha 2(I) chains in type I procollagen molecules. Extracts of normal cells cleaved to collagen, the type I procollagen synthesized by cells from both children, demonstrating that the enzyme, not the substrate, was defective. These findings distinguish dermatosparaxis from Ehlers-Danlos syndrome type VII, which results from substrate mutations that prevent proteolytic processing of type I procollagen molecules. Images Figure 5 Figure 2 Figure 3 Figure 1 Figure 4 Figure 6 PMID:1642226

Comparative analysis of microbial community between different cathode systems of microbial fuel cells for denitrification.

PubMed

Li, Chao; Xu, Ming; Lu, Yi; Fang, Fang; Cao, Jiashun

2016-01-01

Two types of cathodic biofilm in microbial fuel cells (MFC) were established for comparison on their performance and microbial communities. Complete autotrophic simultaneous nitrification and denitrification (SND) without organics addition was achieved in nitrifying-MFC (N-MFC) with a total nitrogen (TN) removal rate of 0.35 mg/(L·h), which was even higher than that in denitrifying-MFC (D-MFC) at same TN level. Integrated denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis analysis based on both 16S rRNA and nirK genes showed that Alpha-, Gammaproteobacteria were the main denitrifier communities. Some potential autotrophic denitrifying bacteria which can use electrons and reducing power from cathodes, such as Shewanella oneidensis, Shewanella loihica, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Starkeya novella and Rhodopseudomonas palustris were identified and selectively enriched on cathode biofilms. Further, relative abundance of denitrifying bacteria characterized by nirK/16S ratios was much higher in biofilm than suspended sludge according to real-time polymerase chain reaction. The highest enrichment efficiency for denitrifiers was obtained in N-MFC cathode biofilms, which confirmed autotrophic denitrifying bacteria enrichment is the key factor for a D-MFC system.

Adjuvant therapy with pegylated interferon alfa-2b versus observation in resected stage III melanoma: a phase III randomized controlled trial of health-related quality of life and symptoms by the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Melanoma Group.

PubMed

Bottomley, Andrew; Coens, Corneel; Suciu, Stefan; Santinami, Mario; Kruit, Willem; Testori, Alessandro; Marsden, Jeremy; Punt, Cornelis; Salès, François; Gore, Martin; Mackie, Rona; Kusic, Zvonko; Dummer, Reinhard; Patel, Poulam; Schadendorf, Dirk; Spatz, Alain; Keilholz, Ulrich; Eggermont, Alexander

2009-06-20

Interferon (IFN) -based adjuvant therapy in melanoma is associated with significant side effects, which necessitates evaluation of health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Our trial examined the HRQOL effects of adjuvant pegylated IFN-alpha-2b (PEG-IFN-alpha-2b) versus observation in patients with stage III melanoma. A total of 1,256 patients with stage III melanoma were randomly assigned after full lymphadenectomy to receive either observation (n = 629) or PEG-IFN-alpha-2b (n = 627): induction 6 micrograms/kg/wk [DOSAGE ERROR CORRECTED] for 8 weeks then maintenance 3 micrograms/kg/wk [DOSAGE ERROR CORRECTED] for an intended total duration of 5 years. The European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire C30 was used to assess HRQOL. At 3.8 years of median follow-up, for the primary end point, recurrence-free survival (RFS), risk was reduced by 18% (hazard rate = 0.82; P = .01) in the PEG-IFN-alpha-2b arm compared with observation. Significant and clinically meaningful differences occurred with the PEG-IFN-alpha-2b treatment arm compared with the observation group, showing decreased global HRQOL at month 3 (-11.6 points; 99% CI, -8.2 to -15.0) and year 2 (-10.5 points; 99% CI, -6.6 to -14.4). Many of the other scales showed statistically significant differences between scores when comparing the two arms. From a clinical point of view, important differences were found for five scales: two functioning scales (social and role functioning) and three symptom scales (appetite loss, fatigue, and dyspnea), with the PEG-IFN-alpha-2b arm being most impaired. PEG-IFN-alpha-2b leads to a significant and sustained improvement in RFS. There is an expected negative effect on global HRQOL and selected symptoms when patients undergo PEG-IFN-alpha-2b treatment.

Ca2+ permeability through rat cloned alpha9-containing nicotinic acetylcholine receptors.

PubMed

Fucile, Sergio; Sucapane, Antonietta; Eusebi, Fabrizio

2006-04-01

We investigated the functional properties of rat alpha9 and alpha9alpha10 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) expressed by transient transfection in the rat GH4C1 cell line, using both Ca(2+) imaging and whole-cell recording. Acute applications of ACh generated short-delay fast-rising and quick-decaying Ca(2+) transients, suppressed in Ca(2+)-free medium and invariably accompanied by the activation of whole-cell inward currents. The mean amplitude of ACh-induced currents was as small as -16 pA in alpha9 subunit cDNA-transfected GH4C1 cells (alpha9-GH4C1), while they were much larger (range: -150 to -300 pA) in alpha9alpha10 subunit cDNAs-transfected GH4C1 cells (alpha9alpha10-GH4C1). Currents were not activated by nicotine, were blocked by methyllycaconitine and were ACh concentration-dependent. Because the Ca(2+) permeability of alpha9-containing nAChRs has been estimated in immortalized cochlear UB/OC-2 mouse cells, we also characterized the ACh-induced responses in these cells. Unlike alpha9- and alpha9alpha10-GH4C1 cells, UB/OC-2 cells responded to ACh with both long-delay methyllycaconitine-insensitive whole-cell currents and long-lasting Ca(2+) transients, the latter being detected in the absence of Ca(2+) in the extracellular medium and being suppressed by the Ca(2+)-ATPase inhibitor thapsigargin, known to deplete IP(3)-sensitive stores. These results indicated the involvement of muscarinic nAChRs and the lack of functional ACh-gated receptor channels in UB/OC-2 cells. Thus, we measured the fractional Ca(2+) current (P(f), i.e. the percentage of total current carried by Ca(2+) ions) in alpha9alpha10-GH4C1, obtaining a P(f) value of 22 +/- 4%; this is the largest value estimated to date for a ligand-gated receptor channel. The physiological role played by Ca(2+) entry through alpha9-containing nAChRs gated by ACh is discussed.

[Removal of nitrogen and phosphorus in eutrophic water by Jussiaea stipulacea Ohwi].

PubMed

Wang, Chao; Zhang, Wen-ming; Wang, Pei-fang; Hou, Jun

2007-05-01

Jussiaea stipulacea Ohwi, a native kind of floating vegetation resembling Alternanthera philoxeroides (Mart.) Griseb., is widespread in ditches, ponds and rivers of Taihu Lake Basin. Its growth habits indicate its potential use in aquatic ecological restoration in Taihu Lake Basin. The removal effects of Jussiaea stipulacea Ohwi on nitrogen and phosphorus in eutrophic water were further studied in indoor experiment, as well as in field observation. The results of indoor experiment show that in summer, the removal rate for total nitrogen was 60%, which is 1.6, 1.9 and 2.8 times greater than that of Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solms., Alternanthera philoxeroides (Mart.) Griseb., and control, respectively, and the removal rate for total phosphorus was about 25%, which is 0.3 times lower than that of Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solms., but 0.9 and 4 times higher than that of Alternanthera philoxeroides (Mart.) Griseb., and control, in winter, the removal rates for total nitrogen and total phosphorus were 23% and 20%, 2.3 and 1 times higher than that of control; Jussiaea stipulacea Ohwi also has good removal effects for ammonia and nitrite. And the results of field observation in Linzhuanggang River, Yixing City, show that the removal rates of total nitrogen and total phosphorus in July to October were 10.2%-19.6% and 23.4%-41.6% in the reach with Jussiaea stipulacea Ohwi, while only 0.1%-1.6% and 3.7%-5.6% in control reach. Based on its good purifying effect on nitrogen and phosphorus in indoor experiment and field observation, the indigene Jussiaea stipulacea Ohwi is recommended as one species of aquatic vegetation in phytoremediation for eutrophic water in rivers of Tailu Lake Basin.

Nitrogen removal and greenhouse gas emissions from constructed wetlands receiving tile drainage water.

PubMed

Groh, Tyler A; Gentry, Lowell E; David, Mark B

2015-05-01

Loss of nitrate from agricultural lands to surface waters is an important issue, especially in areas that are extensively tile drained. To reduce these losses, a wide range of in-field and edge-of-field practices have been proposed, including constructed wetlands. We re-evaluated constructed wetlands established in 1994 that were previously studied for their effectiveness in removing nitrate from tile drainage water. Along with this re-evaluation, we measured the production and flux of greenhouse gases (GHGs) (CO, NO, and CH). The tile inlets and outlets of two wetlands were monitored for flow and N during the 2012 and 2013 water years. In addition, seepage rates of water and nitrate under the berm and through the riparian buffer strip were measured. Greenhouse gas emissions from the wetlands were measured using floating chambers (inundated fluxes) or static chambers (terrestrial fluxes). During this 2-yr study, the wetlands removed 56% of the total inlet nitrate load, likely through denitrification in the wetland. Some additional removal of nitrate occurred in seepage water by the riparian buffer strip along each berm (6.1% of the total inlet load, for a total nitrate removal of 62%). The dominant GHG emitted from the wetlands was CO, which represented 75 and 96% of the total GHG emissions during the two water years. The flux of NO contributed between 3.7 and 13% of the total cumulative GHG flux. Emissions of NO were 3.2 and 1.3% of the total nitrate removed from wetlands A and B, respectively. These wetlands continue to remove nitrate at rates similar to those measured after construction, with relatively little GHG gas loss. Copyright © by the American Society of Agronomy, Crop Science Society of America, and Soil Science Society of America, Inc.

[Cloning of Chinese Banna minipig inbred-line alpha1,3-galactosyltransferase gene and construction of its recombinant eukaryotic expression vector].

PubMed

Zhu, Shengming; Wang, Yanping; Zheng, Hong; Cheng, Jingqiu; Lu, Yanrong; Zeng, Yangzhi; Wang, Yu; Wang, Zhu

2009-04-01

This study sought to clone Chinese Banna minipig inbred-line (BMI) alpha1,3-galactosyltransferase (alpha1,3-GT) gene and construct its recombinant eukaryotic expression vector. Total RNA was isolated from BMI liver. Full length cDNA of alpha1,3-GT gene was amplified by RT-PCR and cloned into pMD18-T vector to sequence. Subsequently, alpha1,3-GT gene was inserted into pEGFP-N1 to construct eukaryotic expression vector pEGFP-N1-GT. Then the reconstructed plasmid pEGFP-N1-GT was transiently transfected into human lung cancer cell line A549. The expression of alpha1,3-GT mRNA in transfected cells was detected by RT-PCR. FITC-BS-IB4 lectin was used in the direct immunofluorescence method, which was performed to observe the alpha-Gal synthesis function of BMI alpha1,3-GT in transfected cells. The results showed that full length of BMI alpha1,3-GT cDNA was 1116 bp. BMI alpha1,3-GT cDNA sequence was highly homogenous with those of mouse and bovine, and was exactly the same as the complete sequence of those of swine, pEGFP-N1-GT was confirmed by enzyme digestion and PCR. The expression of alpha1,3-GT mRNA was detected in A549 cells transfected by pEGFP-N1-GT. The expression of alpha-Gal was observed on the membrane of A549 cells transfected by pEGFP-N1-GT. Successful cloning of BMI alpha1,3-GT cDNA and construction of its eukaryotic expression vector have established a foundation for further research and application of BMI alpha1,3-GT in the fields of xenotransplantation and immunological therapy of cancer.

Multi-component immunoaffinity subtraction chromatography: an innovative step towards a comprehensive survey of the human plasma proteome.

PubMed

Pieper, Rembert; Su, Qin; Gatlin, Christine L; Huang, Shih-Ting; Anderson, N Leigh; Steiner, Sandra

2003-04-01

In order to discover novel protein markers indicative of disease processes or drug effects, the proteomics technology platform most commonly used consists of high resolution protein separation by two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE), mass spectrometric identification of proteins from stained gel spots and a bioinformatic data analysis process supported by statistics. This approach has been more successful in profiling proteins and their disease- or treatment-related quantitative changes in tissue homogenates than in plasma samples. Plasma protein display and quantitation suffer from several disadvantages: very high abundance of a few proteins; high heterogeneity of many proteins resulting in long charge trains; crowding of 2-DE separated protein spots in the molecular mass range between 45-80 kD and in the isoelectric point range between 4.5 and 6. Therefore, proteomic technologies are needed that address these problems and particularly allow accurate quantitation of a larger number of less abundant proteins in plasma and other body fluids. The immunoaffinity-based protein subtraction chromatography (IASC) described here removes multiple proteins present in plasma and serum in high concentrations effectively and reproducibly. Applying IASC as an upfront plasma sample preparation process for 2-DE, the protein spot pattern observed in gels changes dramatically and at least 350 additional lower abundance proteins are visualized. Affinity-purified polyclonal antibodies (pAbs) are the immunoaffinity reagents used to specifically remove the abundant proteins such as albumin, immunoglobulin G, immunoglobulin A, transferrin, haptoglobin, alpha-1-antitrypsin, hemopexin, transthyretin, alpha-2-HS glycoprotein, alpha-1-acid glycoprotein, alpha-2-macroglobulin and fibrinogen from human plasma samples. To render the immunoaffinity subtraction procedure recyclable, the pAbs are immobilized and cross-linked on chromatographic matrices. Antibody-coupled matrices specific for one protein each can be pooled to form mixed-bed IASC columns. We show that up to ten affinity-bound plasma proteins with similar solubility characteristics are eluted from a mixed-bed column in one step. This facilitates automated chromatographic processing of plasma samples in high throughput, which is desirable in proteomic disease marker discovery projects.

Removal of Nutrients from Septic Effluent with Re-circulated Hybrid Tidal Flow Constructed Wetland

Treesearch

Lihua Cui; Jigkun Feng; Ying Ouyang; Peiwen Deng

2012-01-01

Hybrid tidal flow constructed wetland (CW) with recirculation is an improved biological and engineering technique for removal of excess nutrients and certain pollutants from wastewater. This study investigated the removal efficiency of total phosphorus (TP), ammonia-nitrogen (NH3-N), and total nitrogen (TN) from septic tank effluent with the hybrid tidal flow CW system...

Effect and removal mechanisms of 6 different washing agents for building wastes containing chromium.

PubMed

Xing-run, Wang; Yan-xia, Zhang; Qi, Wang; Jian-min, Shu

2012-01-01

With the building wastes contaminated by chromium in Haibei Chemical Plan in China as objects, we studied the contents of total Cr and Cr (VI) of different sizes, analyzed the effect of 6 different washing agents, discussed the removal mechanisms of 6 different washing agents for Cr in various forms, and finally selected applicable washing agent. As per the results, particle size had little impact on the contents of total Cr and Cr (VI); after one washing with water, the removal rate of total Cr and Cr (VI) was 75% and 78%, respectively, and after the second washing with 6 agents, the removal rate of citric acid was the highest, above 90% for total Cr and above 99% for hexavalent chromium; the pH of building wastes were reduced by citric acid, and under acid condition, hexavalent chromium was reduced to trivalent chromium spontaneously by organic acid, which led to better removal rate of acid soluble Cr and reducible Cr; due to the complexing action, citric acid had best removal rate for oxidizable trivalent chromium. In conclusion, citric acid is the most applicable second washing agent for building wastes.

Primary structure of the hemoglobin beta-chain of rose-ringed parakeet (Psittacula krameri).

PubMed

Islam, A; Persson, B; Zaidi, Z H; Jörnvall, H

1989-08-01

The primary structure of Rose-ringed Parakeet hemoglobin beta-chain was established, completing the analysis of this hemoglobin. Comparison with other avian beta-chains show variations smaller than those for the corresponding alpha-chains. There are 11 amino acid exchanges in relationship to the only other characterized psittaciform beta-chain, and a total of 35 positions are affected by differences among all avian beta-chains analyzed (versus 61 for the alpha-chains). At three positions, the Psittacula beta-chain has residues unique to this species. Three alpha 1 beta 1 contacts are modified, by substitutions at positions beta 51, beta 116, and beta 125.

Nitrogen removal from wastewater by an aerated subsurface-flow constructed wetland in cold climates.

PubMed

Redmond, Eric D; Just, Craig L; Parkin, Gene F

2014-04-01

The objective of this study was to assess the role of cyclic aeration, vegetation, and temperature on nitrogen removal by subsurface-flow engineered wetlands. Aeration was shown to enhance total nitrogen and ammonia removal and to enhance removal of carbonaceous biochemical oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand, and phosphorus. Effluent ammonia and total nitrogen concentrations were significantly lower in aerated wetland cells when compared with unaerated cells. There was no significant difference in nitrogen removal between planted and unplanted cells. Effluent total nitrogen concentrations ranged from 9 to 12 mg N/L in the aerated cells and from 23 to 24 mg N/L in unaerated cells. Effluent ammonia concentrations ranged from 3 to 7 mg N/L in aerated wetland cells and from 22 to 23 mg N/L in unaerated cells. For the conditions tested, temperature had only a minimal effect on effluent ammonia or total nitrogen concentrations. The tanks-in-series and the PkC models predicted the general trends in effluent ammonia and total nitrogen concentrations, but did not do well predicting short-term variability. Rate coefficients for aerated systems were 2 to 10 times greater than those for unaerated systems.

An unclassified Eubacterium taxon in acute dento-alveolar abscess.

PubMed

Wade, W G; Lewis, M A; Cheeseman, S L; Absi, E G; Bishop, P A

1994-02-01

The microflora of pus samples aspirated from 50 acute dento-alveolar abscesses was examined. A total of 143 bacterial strains was isolated, consisting predominantly of Prevotella spp., alpha-haemolytic Streptococcus spp., Peptostreptococcus spp. and Eubacterium spp. An unclassified asaccharolytic Eubacterium taxon was encountered in 17 (34%) of the abscesses. This taxon was found to have a positive association with Fusobacterium spp. and a negative association with alpha-haemolytic Streptococcus spp.

MAGNETIC ENERGY SPECTRA IN SOLAR ACTIVE REGIONS

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

Abramenko, Valentyna; Yurchyshyn, Vasyl

Line-of-sight magnetograms for 217 active regions (ARs) with different flare rates observed at the solar disk center from 1997 January until 2006 December are utilized to study the turbulence regime and its relationship to flare productivity. Data from the SOHO/MDI instrument recorded in the high-resolution mode and data from the BBSO magnetograph were used. The turbulence regime was probed via magnetic energy spectra and magnetic dissipation spectra. We found steeper energy spectra for ARs with higher flare productivity. We also report that both the power index, {alpha}, of the energy spectrum, E(k) {approx} k{sup -}{alpha}, and the total spectral energy,more » W = {integral}E(k)dk, are comparably correlated with the flare index, A, of an AR. The correlations are found to be stronger than those found between the flare index and the total unsigned flux. The flare index for an AR can be estimated based on measurements of {alpha} and W as A = 10{sup b}({alpha}W){sup c}, with b = -7.92 {+-} 0.58 and c = 1.85 {+-} 0.13. We found that the regime of the fully developed turbulence occurs in decaying ARs and in emerging ARs (at the very early stage of emergence). Well-developed ARs display underdeveloped turbulence with strong magnetic dissipation at all scales.« less

Effect of alpha-lipoic acid on endometrial implants in an experimental rat model.

PubMed

Pınar, Neslihan; Soylu Karapınar, Oya; Özcan, Oğuzhan; Özgür, Tümay; Bayraktar, Suphi

2017-10-01

To investigate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) in the treatment of endometriosis in an experimental rat model by evaluating biochemical and histopathologic parameters. Experimental endometriosis was induced by the peritoneal implantation of autologous endometrial tissue. The rats were randomly divided into two groups with eight rats each. Group I was intraperitoneally administered ALA 100 mg/kg/day for 14 days. Group II was intraperitoneally administered saline solution at the same dosage and over the same period. Endometrial implant volume was measured in both groups both pre- and post-treatment. Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) was measured in peritoneal fluid. Total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), and oxidative stress index (OSI) were assessed in serum. The implants were histopathologically evaluated. In the ALA group, the serum TOS and OSI levels, the endometrial implant volumes, the TNF-α levels in serum and peritoneal fluid, and the histopathologic scores were significantly lower compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Alpha-lipoic acid may have a therapeutic potential in the treatment of endometriosis due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. © 2017 Société Française de Pharmacologie et de Thérapeutique.

Alpha-A crystallin: quantitation of C-terminal modification during lens aging

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Takemoto, L.; Gopalakrishnan, S.; Spooner, B. S. (Principal Investigator)

1994-01-01

Previous studies have demonstrated that the C-terminal region of alpha-A crystallin is susceptible to age-dependent, posttranslational modification. To quantitate the amount of modification, alpha-A crystallin was purified from total proteins of the aging bovine lens, then digested with lys-C endoproteinase. Reverse phase, high pressure liquid chromatography was used to resolve and quantitate the resulting peptides, to determine the amount of C-terminal peptide relative to peptides from other regions of the protein that have not been reported to undergo modification. The results indicate that relative to alpha-A crystallin from newborn lens, posttranslational modification has occurred in approximately 45-55% of the C-terminal region from mature lens. These results demonstrate extensive modification of the C-terminal region of alpha-A crystallin from the mature lens, indicating that during the aging process, posttranslational modifications in this region may make significant contributions to the aggregated state and/or molecular chaperone properties of the molecule.

Performance of hybrid constructed wetland systems for treating septic tank effluent.

PubMed

Cui, Li-hua; Liu, Wen; Zhu, Xi-zhen; Ma, Mei; Huang, Xi-hua; Xia, Yan-yang

2006-01-01

The integrated wetland systems were constructed by combining horizontal-flow and vertical-flow bed, and their purification efficiencies for septic tank effluent were detected when the hydraulic retention time (HRT) was 1 d, 3 d, 5 d under different seasons. The results showed that the removal efficiencies of the organics, phosphorus were steady in the hybrid systems, but the removal efficiency of total nitrogen was not steady due to high total nitrogen concentration in the septic tank effluent. The average removal rates of COD (chemical oxygen demand) were 89%, 87%, 83%, and 86% in summer, autumn, winter and spring, respectively, and it was up to 88%, 85%, 73%, and 74% for BOD5 (5 d biochemical oxygen demand) removal rate in four seasons. The average removal rates of TP (total phosphorous) could reach up to 97%, 98%, 95%, 98% in four seasons, but the removal rate of TN (total nitrogen) was very low. The results of this study also indicated that the capability of purification was the worst in winter. Cultivating with plants could improve the treated effluent quality from the hybrid systems. The results of the operation of the horizontal-flow and vertical-flow cells (hybrid systems) showed that the removal efficiencies of the organics, TP and TN in horizontal-flow and vertical-flow cells were improved significantly with the extension of HRT under the same season. The removal rate of 3 d HRT was obviously higher than that of 1 d HRT, and the removal rate of 5 d HRT was better than that of 3 d HRT, but the removal efficiency was not very obvious with the increment of HRT. Therefore, 3 d HRT might be recommended in the actual operation of the hybrid systems for economic and technical reasons.

Ischaemic heart disease incidence and mortality in an extended cohort of Mayak workers first employed in 1948–1982

PubMed Central

Grigoryeva, Evgeniya S; Haylock, Richard G E; Pikulina, Maria V; Moseeva, Maria B

2015-01-01

Objective: Incidence and mortality from ischaemic heart disease (IHD) was studied in an extended cohort of 22,377 workers first employed at the Mayak Production Association during 1948–82 and followed up to the end of 2008. Methods: Relative risks and excess relative risks per unit dose (ERR/Gy) were calculated based on the maximum likelihood using Epicure software (Hirosoft International Corporation, Seattle, WA). Dose estimates used in analyses were provided by an updated “Mayak Worker Dosimetry System—2008”. Results: A significant increasing linear trend in IHD incidence with total dose from external γ-rays was observed after having adjusted for non-radiation factors and dose from internal radiation {ERR/Gy = 0.10 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.04 to 0.17]}. The pure quadratic model provided a better fit of the data than did the linear one. No significant association of IHD mortality with total dose from external γ-rays after having adjusted for non-radiation factors and dose from internal alpha radiation was observed in the study cohort [ERR/Gy = 0.06 (95% CI: <0 to 0.15)]. A significant increasing linear trend was observed in IHD mortality with total absorbed dose from internal alpha radiation to the liver after having adjusted for non-radiation factors and dose from external γ-rays in both the whole cohort [ERR/Gy = 0.21 (95% CI: 0.01 to 0.58)] and the subcohort of workers exposed at alpha dose <1.00 Gy [ERR/Gy = 1.08 (95% CI: 0.34 to 2.15)]. No association of IHD incidence with total dose from internal alpha radiation to the liver was found in the whole cohort after having adjusted for non-radiation factors and external gamma dose [ERR/Gy = 0.02 (95% CI: not available to 0.10)]. Statistically significant dose effect was revealed in the subcohort of workers exposed to internal alpha radiation at dose to the liver <1.00 Gy [ERR/Gy = 0.44 (95% CI: 0.09 to 0.85)]. Conclusion: This study provides strong evidence of IHD incidence and mortality association with external γ-ray exposure and some evidence of IHD incidence and mortality association with internal alpha-radiation exposure. Advances in knowledge: It is the first time the validity of internal radiation dose estimates has been shown to affect the risk of IHD incidence. PMID:26224431

The development of a modified human IFN-alpha2b linked to the Fc portion of human IgG1 as a novel potential therapeutic for the treatment of hepatitis C virus infection.

PubMed

Jones, Tim D; Hanlon, Marian; Smith, Beverley J; Heise, Charles T; Nayee, Prakash D; Sanders, Deborah A; Hamilton, Anita; Sweet, Clive; Unitt, Esther; Alexander, Graeme; Lo, Kin-Ming; Gillies, Stephen D; Carr, Frank J; Baker, Matthew P

2004-09-01

Interferon-alpha (IFN-alpha), in conjunction with ribavirin, is the current standard for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. This treatment requires frequent dosing, with a significant risk of the development of anti-IFN-alpha neutralizing antibodies that correlates with lack of efficacy or relapse. We have developed an IFN-alpha linked to the Fc region of human IgG1 for improved half-life and less frequent dosing. We have also identified, using a human T cell proliferation assay, three regions of IFN-alpha2b that are potentially immunogenic, and a variant containing a total of six mutations within these regions was made. This variant was made as a fusion to Fc either with or without a flexible linker between the fusion partners. Both configurations of the variant were less active than native IFN-alpha alone, although the variant containing the flexible linker had in vitro antiviral activity within the range of other modified IFN-alphas currently in clinical use. Peptides spanning the modified regions were tested in T cell proliferation assays and found to be less immunogenic than native controls when using peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from both healthy individuals and HCV-infected patients who had been treated previously with IFN-alpha2b. Copyright Mary Ann Liebert, Inc.

Genomic organization of the rat alpha 2u-globulin gene cluster.

PubMed

McFadyen, D A; Addison, W; Locke, J

1999-05-01

The alpha 2u-globulin are a group of similar proteins, belonging to the lipocalin superfamily of proteins, that are synthesized in a subset of secretory tissues in rats. The many alpha 2u-globulin isoforms are encoded by a multigene family that exhibits extensive homology. Despite a high degree of sequence identity, individual family members show diverse expression patterns involving complex hormonal, tissue-specific, and developmental regulation. Analysis suggests that there are approximately 20 alpha 2u-globulin genes in the rat genome. We have used fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) to show that the alpha 2u-globulin genes are clustered at a single site on rat Chromosome (Chr) 5 (5q22-24). Southern blots of rat genomic DNA separated by pulsed field gel electrophoresis indicated that the alpha 2u-globulin genes are contained on two NruI fragments with a total size of 880 kbp. Analysis of three P1 clones containing alpha 2u-globulin genes indicated that the alpha 2u-globulin genes are tandemly arranged in a head-to-tail fashion. The organization of the alpha 2u-globulin genes in the rat as a tandem array of single genes differs from the homologous major urinary protein genes in the mouse, which are organized as tandem arrays of divergently oriented gene pairs. The structure of these gene clusters may have consequences for the proposed function, as a pheromone transporter, for the protein products encoded by these genes.

Evaluation of the contribution of smoking to total blood polonium-210 in Saudi population.

PubMed

Shabana, E I; Abd Elaziz, M A; Al-Arifi, M N; Al-Dhawailie, A A; Al-Bokari, M M

2000-01-01

A preliminary study of 210Po concentrations in the blood of some smokers and nonsmokers is presented in order to evaluate the contribution of smoking to total blood 210Po in Saudi population. Blood samples were collected from 30 volunteers and analyzed by high resolution alpha-spectrometry using a radiochemical technique. The technique is based on the separation of polonium from other components of the sample by wet ashing with an HNO3/H2O2 oxidizing mixture and spontaneous deposition on a silver disc under the relevant conditions for alpha-particle counting. The results indicated that a significant fraction (about 30%) of blood 210Po is related to smoking.

The effects of different types of investments on the alpha-case layer of titanium castings.

PubMed

Guilin, Yu; Nan, Li; Yousheng, Li; Yining, Wang

2007-03-01

Different types of investments affect the formation of the alpha-case (alpha-case) layer on titanium castings. This alpha-case layer may possibly alter the mechanical properties of cast titanium, which may influence the fabrication of removable and fixed prostheses. The formation mechanism for the alpha-case layer is not clear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of 3 types of investments on the microstructure, composition, and microhardness of the alpha-case layer on titanium castings. Fifteen wax columns with a diameter of 5 mm and a length of 40 mm were divided into 3 groups of 5 patterns each. Patterns were invested using 3 types of investment materials, respectively, and were cast in pure titanium. The 3 types of materials tested were SiO(2)-, Al(2)O(3)-, and MgO-based investments. All specimens were sectioned and prepared for metallographic observation. The microstructure and composition of the surface reaction layer of titanium castings were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and electron probe microanalysis (EPMA). The surface microhardness (VHN) for all specimens was measured using a hardness testing machine, and a mean value for each group was calculated. The alpha-case layer on titanium castings invested with SiO(2)-, Al(2)O(3)-, and MgO-based investments consisted of 3 layers-namely, the oxide layer, alloy layer, and hardening layer. In this study, the oxide layer and alloy layer were called the reaction layer. The thickness of the reaction layer for titanium castings using SiO(2)-, Al(2)O(3)-, and MgO-based investments was approximately 80 microm, 50 microm, and 14 microm, respectively. The surface microhardness of titanium castings made with SiO(2)-based investments was the highest, and that with MgO-based investments was the lowest. The type of investment affects the microstructure and microhardness of the alpha-case layer of titanium castings. Based on the thickness of the surface reaction layer and the surface microhardness of titanium castings, MgO-based investment materials may be the best choice for casting these materials.

Total nitrogen and total phosphorus removal from brackish aquaculture wastewater using effective microorganism

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mohamad, K. A.; Mohd, S. Y.; Sarah, R. S.; Mohd, H. Z.; Rasyidah, A.

2017-09-01

Aquaculture is one of dominant food based industry in the world with 8.3% annual growth rate and its development had led to adverse effect on the environment. High nutrient production in form of nitrogenous compound and phosphorus contributed to environmental deterioration such as eutrophication and toxicity to the industry. Usage of Effective Microorganism (EM), one of the biological approaches to remove Total Nitrogen (TN) and Total Phosphorus (TP) in aquaculture pond was proposed. Samples were obtained from the Sea Bass intensive brackish aquaculture wastewater (AW) from fish farm at Juru, Penang and the parameters used to measure the removal of nitrogenous compounds include, pH, EM dosage, shaking, contact time and optimum variable conditions. From the study, for effective contact time, day 6 is the optimum contact time for both TN and TP with 99.74% and 62.78% removal respectively while in terms of optimum pH, the highest TN removal was at pH 7 with 66.89 %. The optimum dosage of EM is 1.5 ml with ratio 1:166 for 81.5 % TN removal was also found appropriate during the experiment. At varied optimum conditions of EM, the removal efficiency of TN and TP were 81.53% and 38.94% respectively while the removal mechanism of TN was highly dependent on the decomposition rate of specific bacteria such as Nitrobacter bacteria, Yeast and Bacillus Subtilis sp. The study has established the efficacy of EM's ability to treat excessive nutrient of TN and TP from AW.

Distinct freshwater and seawater isoforms of Na+/K+-ATPase in gill chloride cells of Atlantic salmon

USGS Publications Warehouse

McCormick, Stephen D.; Regish, A.M.; Christensen, A.K.

2009-01-01

Gill Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase (NKA) in teleost fishes is involved in ion regulation in both freshwater and seawater. We have developed and validated rabbit polyclonal antibodies specific to the NKA alpha1a and alpha1b protein isoforms of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar Linnaeus), and used western blots and immunohistochemistry to characterize their size, abundance and localization. The relative molecular mass of NKA alpha1a is slightly less than that for NKA beta1b. The abundance of gill NKA alpha1a was high in freshwater and became nearly undetectable after seawater acclimation. NKA alpha1b was present in small amounts in freshwater and increased 13-fold after seawater acclimation. Both NKA isoforms were detected only in chloride cells. NKA alpha1a was located in both filamental and lamellar chloride cells in freshwater, whereas in seawater it was present only as a faint background in filamental chloride cells. In freshwater, NKA alpha1b was found in a small number of filamental chloride cells, and after seawater acclimation it was found in all chloride cells on the filament and lamellae. Double simultaneous immunofluorescence indicated that NKA alpha1a and alpha1b are located in different chloride cells in freshwater. In many chloride cells in seawater, NKA alpha1b was present in greater amounts in the subapical region than elsewhere in the cell. The combined patterns in abundance and immunolocalization of these two isoforms can explain the salinity-related changes in total NKA and chloride cell abundance. The results indicate that there is a freshwater and a seawater isoform of NKA alpha-subunit in the gills of Atlantic salmon and that they are present in distinct chloride cells.

[Cardiovascular effects of prostaglandin F 2 alpha in early pregnancy].

PubMed

Retzke, U; Schwarz, R

1976-01-01

In 10 normotensive healthy early pregnant women cardiovascular studies were done before, during and after the intravenous administration of prostaglandin F2alpha with the method of quantitative sphygmometry. Arterial blood pressure was measured graphically with an automatic sphygmomanometer unit. Velocity of aortic pulse wave was determined directly on the principle of exact electronic timing. Prostaglandin F2alpha was infused with electric pump in the dosage of 6, 5, 13 and 26 mug per minute for 30 minutes in each case. Arterial blood pressure is nearly constant. Heart rate, the elasticity coefficient of the arteries E' and total peripheral resistance decreases significantly. Stroke volume, cardiac output, work and power of the heart increases significantly. Nevertheless there are no contra-indications on the part of cardiovascular system for using prostaglandin F2alpha for induction of abortion

cap alpha. -Methylglucoside satisfies only Na/sup +/-dependent transport system of intestinal epithelium

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

Kimmich, G.A.; Randles, J.

1981-01-01

The unidirectional influx of ..cap alpha..-methylglucoside (..cap alpha..-MG) by isolated chicken intestinal epithelial cells is 98% inhibited by phlorizin. The remaining 2% of the total influx occurs in the absence of Na/sup +/, is not sensitive to phloretin, and is equal to the diffusional entry rate for 2-deoxyglucose. The glucoside is much more strongly accumulated (75-fold) than 3-O-methylglucose (3-OMG) (10-fold). Inhibitors of the serosal sugar carrier (phloretin, cytochalasin B, theophylline, and flavanoids) do not enhance ..cap alpha..-MG accumulation. It is concluded that the glycoside is not a substrate for the intestinal serosal transport system. Steady-state gradients of the sugar canmore » be represented accurately by a concentrative, phlorizin-sensitive system that is opposed by a diffusional efflux process.« less

A differential protein solubility approach for the depletion of highly abundant proteins in plasma using ammonium sulfate.

PubMed

Bollineni, Ravi Chand; Guldvik, Ingrid J; Grönberg, Henrik; Wiklund, Fredrik; Mills, Ian G; Thiede, Bernd

2015-12-21

Depletion of highly abundant proteins is an approved step in blood plasma analysis by mass spectrometry (MS). In this study, we explored a precipitation and differential protein solubility approach as a fractionation strategy for abundant protein removal from plasma. Total proteins from plasma were precipitated with 90% saturated ammonium sulfate, followed by differential solubilization in 55% and 35% saturated ammonium sulfate solutions. Using a four hour liquid chromatography (LC) gradient and an LTQ-Orbitrap XL mass spectrometer, a total of 167 and 224 proteins were identified from the 55% and 35% ammonium sulfate fractions, whereas 235 proteins were found in the remaining protein fractions with at least two unique peptides. SDS-PAGE and exclusive total spectrum counts from LC-MS/MS analyses clearly showed that majority of the abundant plasma proteins were solubilized in 55% and 35% ammonium sulfate solutions, indicating that the remaining protein fraction is of potential interest for identification of less abundant plasma proteins. Serum albumin, serotransferrin, alpha-1-antitrypsin and transthyretin were the abundant proteins that were highly enriched in 55% ammonium sulfate fractions. Immunoglobulins, complement system proteins, and apolipoproteins were among other abundant plasma proteins that were enriched in 35% ammonium sulfate fractions. In the remaining protein fractions a total of 40 unique proteins were identified of which, 32 proteins were identified with at least 10 exclusive spectrum counts. According to PeptideAtlas, 9 of these 32 proteins were estimated to be present at low μg ml(-1) (0.12-1.9 μg ml(-1)) concentrations in the plasma, and 17 at low ng ml(-1) (0.1-55 ng ml(-1)) range.

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

Hargrove, Tatiana Y.; Wawrzak, Zdzislaw; Liu, Jialin

Leishmaniasis is a major health problem that affects populations of {approx}90 countries worldwide, with no vaccine and only a few moderately effective drugs. Here we report the structure/function characterization of sterol 14{alpha}-demethylase (CYP51) from Leishmania infantum. The enzyme catalyzes removal of the 14{alpha}-methyl group from sterol precursors. The reaction is essential for membrane biogenesis and therefore has great potential to become a target for antileishmanial chemotherapy. Although L. infantum CYP51 prefers C4-monomethylated sterol substrates such as C4-norlanosterol and obtusifoliol (V{sub max} of {approx}10 and 8 min{sup -1}, respectively), it is also found to 14{alpha}-demethylate C4-dimethylated lanosterol (V{sub max} = 0.9more » min{sup -1}) and C4-desmethylated 14{alpha}-methylzymosterol (V{sub max} = 1.9 min{sup -1}). Binding parameters with six sterols were tested, with K{sub d} values ranging from 0.25 to 1.4 {mu}m. Thus, L. infantum CYP51 is the first example of a plant-like sterol 14{alpha}-demethylase, where requirements toward the composition of the C4 atom substituents are not strict, indicative of possible branching in the postsqualene portion of sterol biosynthesis in the parasite. Comparative analysis of three CYP51 substrate binding cavities (Trypanosoma brucei, Trypanosoma cruzi, and L. infantum) suggests that substrate preferences of plant- and fungal-like protozoan CYP51s largely depend on the differences in the enzyme active site topology. These minor structural differences are also likely to underlie CYP51 catalytic rates and drug susceptibility and can be used to design potent and specific inhibitors.« less

Boldenone, testosterone and 1,4-androstadiene-3,17-dione determination in faeces from horses, untreated and after administration of androsta-1,4-diene-3,17-dione (boldione).

PubMed

Popot, M A; Boyer, S; Menaut, L; Garcia, P; Bonnaire, Y; Lesage, D

2008-06-01

Faeces, which could be a potential alternative medium for doping control, have been used for the detection of 1,4-androstadiene-3,17-dione administration to the horse. Semi-quantitative analyses of 1,4-androstadiene-3,17-dione, testosterone, 17alpha- and 17beta-boldenone have been conducted in pre- and post-administration faeces, and in controls (untreated stallions, geldings and mares). Sample preparation comprised diethyl ether extraction, lipid removal, HPLC purification and derivatisation. 1,4-Androstadiene-3,17-dione, testosterone, 17alpha- and 17beta-boldenone were analysed by GC-EI/MS/MS. Quantitative limits of detection were 0.1 ng/g for 1,4-androstadiene-3,17-dione, and 0.025 ng/g for testosterone, 17alpha- and 17beta-testosterone. In post-administration samples from geldings and mares, peak levels of 1,4-androstadiene-3,17-dione, 17alpha-, 17beta-boldenone and testosterone were attained 24 h after administration. In untreated geldings and mares (in di- or anoestrus), 17alpha- and 17beta-boldenone and testosterone were not detected. Faeces from females in oestrus had detectable levels of boldenone isomers and testosterone. 1,4-Androstadiene-3,17-dione was undetectable in faeces collected from untreated horses, but the presence of this androgen was recently reported in faeces from untreated swine and it would therefore be advisable to check for its possible presence in a larger number of individual faecal samples. Copyright (c) 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Pheochromocytoma of the Organ Zuckerkandl.

PubMed

Lee, C; Chang, E; Gimenez, J; McCarron, R

2017-01-01

Pheochromocytomas (PCCs);, or intra-adrenal paragangliomas (PGLs);, are neuroendocrine tumors arising within the adrenal medulla. Extra-adrenal paragangliomas may arise in the sympathetic or parasympathetic paraganglia and more rarely in other organs. One of the most common extra-adrenal sites is in the organ of Zuckerkandl, a collection of chromaffin cells near the origin of the inferior mesenteric artery or near the aortic bifurcation. The following is a case of a patient with resistant hypertension secondary to an extra-adrenal paraganglioma in the organ of Zuckerkandl. The patient is a 43 year old man with a history of depression, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and hypertension who was sent to the emergency department by his primary care physician for severely elevated blood pressures. Patient also had diaphoresis, tachycardia, and a new, fine tremor of his left hand. Upon presentation, the patient's blood pressure was 260/120 mmHg with a heart rate of 140 beats per minute. Plasma fractionated metanephrines sent on admission revealed significantly elevated levels of total plasma metanephrines (2558 pg/mL);, free metanephrine (74 pg/ml); and free normetanephrine (2484pg/mL);. An I-123 metaiodobenzylguanidine (MIBG); scan showed abnormal uptake in the lower abdomen at the level of the aortic bifurcation. Patient was started on alpha-blockade, with subsequent addition of a beta-blocker prior to surgery. Patient underwent surgical removal of the tumor with pathology consistent with a paraganglioma. Pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas are responsible for approximately 0.5 percent of cases of secondary hypertension. Many different biochemical markers have been used to aid in the diagnosis of PCC/PGL including plasma catecholamines, plasma metanephrines, urine fractionated metanephrines, urine catecholamines, total metanephrines and vanillymandellic acid. Definitive management of a PCC and PGL involves surgical removal of the tumor. Finally, there should be a discussion with each patient to determine if he or she should undergo genetic testing, as studies show that approximately 25 percent of catecholamine producing PCCs and PGLs are due to heritable genetic mutations.

On the DEAP-3600 resurfacing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Giampa, P.

2018-01-01

The DEAP-3600 experiment is a single-phase detector that can hold up to 3600 kg of liquid argon to search for dark matter at SNOLAB in Sudbury Canada, 6800 ft. underground. The projected sensitivity to the spin-independent WIMP-nucleon cross-section is 10-46 cm2 for a WIMP mass of 100 GeV/c2. One of the primary background sources to the WIMP search are alpha decays occurring on the surface of the experiment, which only deposit a tiny fraction of their energy in the argon. The work reported here focuses on the development and operation of a custom designed robot, the Resurfacer, which was used to remove 500 micrometers from the inner-most layer of the detector's acrylic cryostat, thus removing contaminations introduced during construction.

Ten-year results from the long-term soil productivity study in aspen ecosystems of the northern Great Lakes region

Treesearch

Richard Voldseth; Brian J. Palik; John Elioff

2011-01-01

Impacts of organic matter removal and compaction on soil properties and productivity are reported from the first 10 years of the Long-Term Soil Productivity Study in Great Lakes aspen ecosystems. Organic matter removal treatments included main bole, total tree harvest, and total tree harvest with forest floor removal. Compaction treatments included minimal compaction,...

Development of a Brief Questionnaire to Assess Habitual Beverage Intake (BEVQ-15): Sugar-Sweetened Beverages and Total Beverage Energy Intake

PubMed Central

Hedrick, Valisa E.; Savla, Jyoti; Comber, Dana L.; Flack, Kyle D.; Estabrooks, Paul A.; Nsiah-Kumi, Phyllis A.; Ortmeier, Stacie; Davy, Brenda M.

2012-01-01

Introduction Energy-containing beverages, specifically sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB), may contribute to weight gain and obesity development. Yet, no rapid assessment tools are available which quantify habitual beverage intake (grams, energy) in adults. Objective Determine the factorial validity of a newly developed beverage intake questionnaire (BEVQ) and identify potential to reduce items. Methods Participants from varying economic and educational backgrounds (n=1,596; age 43±12 yrs; BMI 31.5±0.2 kg/m2) completed a 19-item BEVQ (BEVQ-19). Beverages that contributed <10% to total beverage, or SSB, energy and grams were identified for potential removal. Factor analyses identified beverage categories that could potentially be combined. Regression analyses compared BEVQ-19 outcomes with the reduced version’s (BEVQ-15) variables. Inter-item reliability was assessed using Cronbach’s Alpha. Following BEVQ-15 development, a subsequent study (n=70; age 37±2 yrs; BMI 24.5±0.4 kg/m2) evaluated the relative validity of the BEVQ-15 through comparison of three 24-hour dietary recalls’ (FIR) beverage intake. Results Three beverage items were identified for elimination (vegetable juice, meal replacement drinks, mixed alcoholic drinks); beer and light beer were combined into one category. Regression models using BEVQ-15 variables explained 91–99% of variance in the four major outcomes of the BEVQ-19 (all P<0.001). Cronbach’s Alpha ranged 0.97–0.99 for all outcomes. In the follow-up study, BEVQ-15 and FIR variables were significantly correlated with the exception of whole milk; BEVQ-15 SSB (R2=0.69) and total beverage energy (R2=0.59) were more highly correlated with FIR than previously reported for the BEVQ-19. The BEVQ-15 produced a lower readability score of 4.8, which is appropriate for individuals with a fourth grade education or greater. Conclusion The BEVQ-19 can be reduced to a 15-item questionnaire. This brief dietary assessment tool will enable researchers and practitioners to rapidly (administration time of ~2 min) assess habitual beverage intake, and to determine possible associations of beverage consumption with health-related outcomes, such as weight status. PMID:22709811

Fermented pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) ingredients in pasta products.

PubMed

Torres, Alexia; Frias, J; Granito, M; Vidal-Valverde, C

2006-09-06

Pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan var. aroíto) seeds were fermented in order to remove antinutritional factors and to obtain functional legume flour to be used as pasta ingredients. Fermentation brought about a drastic reduction of alpha-galactosides (82%), phytic acid (48%), and trypsin inhibitor activity (39%). Fermented legume flours presented a notable increase of fat and total soluble available carbohydrates, a slight decrease of protein, dietary fiber, calcium, vitamin B2, vitamin E, and total antioxidant capacity, and a decrease of soluble dietary fiber, Na, K, Mg, and Zn contents. No changes were observed in the level of starch and tannins as a consequence of fermentation. The fermented flour was used as an ingredient to make pasta products in a proportion of 5, 10, and 12%. The supplemented pasta products obtained had longer cooking times, higher cooking water absorptions, higher cooking loss, and higher protein loss in water than control pasta (100% semolina). From sensory evaluations, fortified pasta with 5 and 10% fermented pigeon pea flour had an acceptability score similar to control pasta. Pasta supplemented with 10% fermented pigeon pea flour presented higher levels of protein, fat, dietary fiber, mineral, vitamin E, and Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity than 100% semolina pasta and similar vitamins B1 and B2 contents. Protein efficiency ratios and true protein digestibility improved (73 and 6%, respectively) after supplementation with 10% fermented pigeon pea flour; therefore, the nutritional value was enhanced.

Effects of lipoic Acid on acrylamide induced testicular damage.

PubMed

Lebda, Mohamed; Gad, Shereen; Gaafar, Hossam

2014-06-01

Acrylamide is very toxic to various organs and associated with significant increase of oxidative stress and depletion of antioxidants. Alpha-lipoic acid enhances cellular antioxidant defense capacity, thereby protecting cells from oxidative stress. This study aimed to evaluate the protective role of alpha-lipoic acid on the oxidative damage induced by acrylamide in testicular and epididymal tissues. Forty adult male rats were divided into four groups (10 rats each). Control group; acrylamide treated group administered acrylamide 0.05% (w/v) in drinking water for 21 days; alpha-lipoic acid group received basal diet supplemented with 1% alpha-lipoic acid and forth group was exposed to acrylamide and treated with alpha-lipoic acid at the same doses and treatment regimen mentioned before. The administration of acrylamide resulted in significant elevation in testicular and epididymal malondialdehyde level (MDA) and significant reduction in the level of reduced glutathione (GSH) and the activities of glutathione-S-transferase (GST), glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and glutathione reductase (GR). Also, acrylamide significantly reduced serum total testosterone and progesterone but increased estradiol (E2) levels. Treatment with alpha-lipoic acid prior to acrylamide induced protective effects and attenuated these biochemical changes. Alpha-lipoic acid has been shown to possess antioxidant properties offering promising efficacy against oxidative stress induced by acrylamide administration.

Psychological stress-induced changes in salivary alpha-amylase and adrenergic activity.

PubMed

Kang, Younhee

2010-12-01

The aim of the study was to examine the relationships among salivary alpha-amylase, plasma catecholamines, blood pressure, and heart rate during psychological stress. This study used a pretest-post-test experimental design with a control group, using repeated measures. A total of 33 participants was divided into the experimental group (n = 16) that underwent a college academic final test as the psychological stress and the control group (n = 17) that did not undergo the test. The levels of salivary alpha-amylase and plasma catecholamines, blood pressure, and heart rate were measured seven times and stress and anxiety were measured once and twice, respectively, as subjective stress markers. Significant changes in the level of salivary alpha-amylase were found in response to psychological stress. However, the correlations of salivary alpha-amylase with the plasma catecholamines, blood pressure, and heart rate were only partially found to be statistically significant. In conclusion, it was shown that salivary alpha-amylase was sensitive to stress throughout this study. Thus, salivary alpha-amylase may be used to measure stress uninvasively in both clinical settings and nursing research where the effects of stress might be scrutinized. Furthermore, the mechanisms of illnesses that are induced by stress could be explored. © 2010 Blackwell Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.

Radiation-induced cognitive dysfunction and cerebellar oxidative stress in mice: protective effect of alpha-lipoic acid.

PubMed

Manda, Kailash; Ueno, Megumi; Moritake, Takashi; Anzai, Kazunori

2007-02-12

Reactive oxygen species are implicated in neurodegeneration and cognitive disorders due to higher vulnerability of neuronal tissues. The cerebellum is recently reported to be involved in cognitive function. Therefore, present study aimed at investigating the role alpha-lipoic acid against radiation-induced oxidative stress and antioxidant status in cerebellum and its correlation with cognitive dysfunction. We observed spontaneous motor activities and spatial memory task of mice using pyroelectric infrared sensor and programmed video tracking system, respectively. Whole body X-irradiation (6 Gy) of mice substantially impaired the reference memory and motor activities of mice. However, acute intraperitoneal treatment of mice with alpha-lipoic acid prior to irradiation significantly attenuated such cognitive dysfunction. Alpha-lipoic acid pretreatment exerted a very high magnitude of protection against radiation-induced augmentation of protein carbonyls and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) in mice cerebellum. Further, radiation-induced deficit of total, nonprotein and protein-bound sulfhydryl (T-SH, NP-SH, PB-SH) contents of cerebellum and plasma ferric reducing power (FRAP) was also inhibited by alpha-lipoic acid pre-treatment. Moreover, alpha-lipoic acid treated mice showed an intact cytoarchitecture of cerebellum, higher counts of intact Purkinje cells and granular cells in comparison to untreated irradiated mice. Results clearly indicate that alpha-lipoic acid is potent neuroprotective antioxidant.

A randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled, parallel group, efficacy study of alpha BRAIN® administered orally.

PubMed

Solomon, Todd M; Leech, Jarrett; deBros, Guy B; Murphy, Cynthia A; Budson, Andrew E; Vassey, Elizabeth A; Solomon, Paul R

2016-03-01

Alpha BRAIN® is a nootropic supplement that purports to enhance cognitive functioning in healthy adults. The goal of this study was to investigate the efficacy of this self-described cognitive enhancing nootropic on cognitive functioning in a group of healthy adults by utilizing a randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled design. A total of 63-treatment naïve individuals between 18 and 35 years of age completed the randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled trial. All participants completed a 2-week placebo run in before receiving active product, Alpha BRAIN® or new placebo, for 6 weeks. Participants undertook a battery of neuropsychological tests at randomization and at study completion. Primary outcome measures included a battery of neuropsychological tests and measures of sleep. Compared with placebo, Alpha BRAIN® significantly improved on tasks of delayed verbal recall and executive functioning. Results also indicated significant time-by-group interaction in delayed verbal recall for the Alpha BRAIN® group. The use of Alpha BRAIN® for 6 weeks significantly improved recent verbal memory when compared with controls, in a group of healthy adults. While the outcome of the study is encouraging, this is the first randomized controlled trial of Alpha BRAIN®, and the results merit further study. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Structure of Glycerol Dehydratase Reactivase: A New Type of Molecular Chaperone

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

Liao, Der-Ing; Reiss, Lisa; Turner, Jr., Ivan

2010-03-08

The function of glycerol dehydratase (GDH) reactivase is to remove damaged coenzyme B{sub 12} from GDH that has suffered mechanism-based inactivation. The structure of GDH reactivase from Klebsiella pneumoniae was determined at 2.4 {angstrom} resolution by the single isomorphous replacement with anomalous signal (SIR/AS) method. Each tetramer contains two elongated 63 kDa {alpha} subunits and two globular 14 kDa {beta} subunits. The {alpha} subunit contains structural features resembling both GroEL and Hsp70 groups of chaperones, and it appears chaperone like in its interactions with ATP. The fold of the {beta} subunit resembles that of the {beta} subunit of glycerol dehydratase,more » except that it lacks some coenzyme B12 binding elements. A hypothesis for the reactivation mechanism of reactivase is proposed based on these structural features.« less

A practical synthesis of (+)-biotin from L-cysteine.

PubMed

Seki, Masahiko; Hatsuda, Masanori; Mori, Yoshikazu; Yoshida, Shin-ichi; Yamada, Shin-ichi; Shimizu, Toshiaki

2004-11-19

Alpha-amino aldehyde 4, which is readily derived from L-cysteine through cyclization and elaboration of the carboxy group, was subjected to the Strecker reaction, which, via sodium bisulfite adduct 16, afforded alpha-amino nitrile 5 with high diastereoselectivity (syn/anti=11:1) and in high yield. Amide 6, derived from 5, was converted to thiolactone 8, a key intermediate in the synthesis of (+)-biotin (1), by a novel S,N-carbonyl migration and cyclization reaction. The Fukuyama coupling reaction of 8 with the zinc reagent 21, which has an ester group, in the presence of a heterogeneous Pd/C catalyst allowed the efficient installation of the 4-carboxybutyl chain to provide 9. Compound 9 was hydrogenated and the protecting groups removed to furnish 1 in 10 steps and in 34 % overall yield from L-cysteine.

Determination of (210)Po in drinking water and urine samples using copper sulfide microprecipitation.

PubMed

Guérin, Nicolas; Dai, Xiongxin

2014-06-17

Polonium-210 ((210)Po) can be rapidly determined in drinking water and urine samples by alpha spectrometry using copper sulfide (CuS) microprecipitation. For drinking water, Po in 10 mL samples was directly coprecipitated onto the filter for alpha counting without any purification. For urine, 10 mL of sample was heated, oxidized with KBrO3 for a short time (∼5 min), and subsequently centrifuged to remove the suspended organic matter. The CuS microprecipitation was then applied to the supernatant. Large batches of samples can be prepared using this technique with high recoveries (∼85%). The figures of merit of the methods were determined, and the developed methods fulfill the requirements for emergency and routine radioassays. The efficiency and reliability of the procedures were confirmed using spiked samples.

[PREVENTION AND CORRECTION OF PULMONARY COMPLICATIONS FOR SEVERE ACUTE PANCREATITIS].

PubMed

Fedorkiv, M B

2015-06-01

Increased of proinflammatory cytokines levels, including interleukin-8 (IL-8) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) on severe acute pancreatitis causes vasodilatation, increased permeability of the wall, accumulation of fluid in lung tissue and pleural sinuses. Transudate from acute parapancreatyc clusters of hot liquid and abdomen falls into the chest cavity through microscopic defects in the diaphragm due to the formation of pathological pleural-peritoneal connections or the relevant pressure gradient between the abdominal and pleural cavities. Remediation and removal of acute parapancreatyc clusters combined with the use of a multicomponent drug infusion therapy Cytoflavin provide a reduction in the frequency of pulmonary complications of acute pancreatitis from 48.3 to 31.0%. Use of the drug Cytoflavin reduces the severity of endogenous intoxication and mortality from acute lung injury from 12.9 to 6.1%.

Study on Brain Dynamics by Non Linear Analysis of Music Induced EEG Signals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Banerjee, Archi; Sanyal, Shankha; Patranabis, Anirban; Banerjee, Kaushik; Guhathakurta, Tarit; Sengupta, Ranjan; Ghosh, Dipak; Ghose, Partha

2016-02-01

Music has been proven to be a valuable tool for the understanding of human cognition, human emotion, and their underlying brain mechanisms. The objective of this study is to analyze the effect of Hindustani music on brain activity during normal relaxing conditions using electroencephalography (EEG). Ten male healthy subjects without special musical education participated in the study. EEG signals were acquired at the frontal (F3/F4) lobes of the brain while listening to music at three experimental conditions (rest, with music and without music). Frequency analysis was done for the alpha, theta and gamma brain rhythms. The finding shows that arousal based activities were enhanced while listening to Hindustani music of contrasting emotions (romantic/sorrow) for all the subjects in case of alpha frequency bands while no significant changes were observed in gamma and theta frequency ranges. It has been observed that when the music stimulus is removed, arousal activities as evident from alpha brain rhythms remain for some time, showing residual arousal. This is analogous to the conventional 'Hysteresis' loop where the system retains some 'memory' of the former state. This is corroborated in the non linear analysis (Detrended Fluctuation Analysis) of the alpha rhythms as manifested in values of fractal dimension. After an input of music conveying contrast emotions, withdrawal of music shows more retention as evidenced by the values of fractal dimension.

Antitumor properties of (5E,7E) analogs of vitamin D3.

PubMed

Filip, B; Milczarek, M; Wietrzyk, J; Chodyński, M; Kutner, A

2010-07-01

Geometric isomers (5E,7E) of major active metabolites of vitamin D3 [1alpha,25(OH)2D3 and (24R)-1,24(OH)2D3] were synthesized by a new convenient procedure. Vitamin D triene system of the metabolites was first derivatized as a Diels-Alder adduct. Removal of the triene protecting group, in a key synthetic step, yielded the title compounds PRI-2208 and PRI-2209, respectively. The analogs were examined for their antiproliferative activity in vitro against human breast cancer cells (MCF-7) and promyelocytic leukemia (HL-60) cells. The activity was compared with one of the parent compounds. Both analogs examined revealed similar or higher antiproliferative activity compared to 1alpha,25(OH)2D3 or to (24R)-1,24(OH)2D3. The studies of calcemic activity in vivo showed that analogs PRI-2208 and PRI-2209 did not influence the serum calcium level in doses, in which 1alpha,25(OH)2D3 or (24R)-1,24(OH)2D3 significantly increased this level. The antitumor activity of these analogs in the LLC mice tumor model was studied. Analog PRI-2208 was found to be more active in inhibiting LLC tumor growth than 1alpha,25(OH)2D3, as well as than PRI-2191 and PRI-2209. Copyright (c) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Glycosylphosphatidylinositol membrane anchors in Saccharomyces cerevisiae: absence of ceramides from complete precursor glycolipids.

PubMed Central

Sipos, G; Puoti, A; Conzelmann, A

1994-01-01

Glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchoring of membrane proteins occurs through two distinct steps, namely the assembly of a precursor glycolipid and its subsequent transfer onto newly synthesized proteins. To analyze the structure of the yeast precursor glycolipid we made use of the pmi40 mutant that incorporates very high amounts of [3H]mannose. Two very polar [3H]mannose-labeled glycolipids named CP1 and CP2 qualified as GPI precursor lipids since their carbohydrate head group, Man alpha 1,2(X-->PO4-->6)Man alpha 1,2Man alpha 1,6Man alpha-GlcN-inositol (with X most likely being ethanolamine) comprises the core structure which is common to all GPI anchors described so far. CP1 predominates in cells grown at 24 degrees C whereas CP2 is induced by stress conditions. The apparent structural identity of the head groups suggests that CP1 and CP2 contain different lipid moieties. The lipid moieties of both CP1 and CP2 can be removed by mild alkaline hydrolysis although the protein-bound GPI anchors made by the pmi40 cells under identical labeling conditions contain mild base resistant ceramides. These findings imply that the ceramide moiety found on the majority of yeast GPI anchored proteins is added through a lipid remodeling step that occurs after the addition of the GPI precursor glycolipids to proteins. Images PMID:8026463

Addition of anaerobic tanks to an oxidation ditch system to enhance removal of phosphorus from wastewater.

PubMed

Liu, Jun-xin; van Groenestijn, J W; Doddema, H J; Wang, Bao-zhen

2002-04-01

The oxidation ditch has been used for many years all over the world as an economic and efficient wastewater treatment technology. It can remove COD, nitrogen and a part of phosphorus efficiently. In the experiment described, a pilot scale Pasveer oxidation ditch system has been tested to investigate the removal of phosphorus from wastewater. The experimental results showed that influent total phosphorus(TP) was removed for 35%-50%. After this, two anaerobic tanks with total volume of 11 m3 were added to the system to release phosphorus. As a result, the TP removal efficiency increased by about 20%. At an anaerobic HRT of about 6 hours, a TP removal efficiency of 71% was achieved.

Evaluation of antihyperglycemia and antihypertension potential of native Peruvian fruits using in vitro models.

PubMed

Pinto, Marcia Da Silva; Ranilla, Lena Galvez; Apostolidis, Emmanouil; Lajolo, Franco Maria; Genovese, Maria Inés; Shetty, Kalidas

2009-04-01

Local food diversity and traditional crops are essential for cost-effective management of the global epidemic of type 2 diabetes and associated complications of hypertension. Water and 12% ethanol extracts of native Peruvian fruits such as Lucuma (Pouteria lucuma), Pacae (Inga feuille), Papayita arequipeña (Carica pubescens), Capuli (Prunus capuli), Aguaymanto (Physalis peruviana), and Algarrobo (Prosopis pallida) were evaluated for total phenolics, antioxidant activity based on 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging assay, and functionality such as in vitro inhibition of alpha-amylase, alpha-glucosidase, and angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) relevant for potential management of hyperglycemia and hypertension linked to type 2 diabetes. The total phenolic content ranged from 3.2 (Aguaymanto) to 11.4 (Lucuma fruit) mg/g of sample dry weight. A significant positive correlation was found between total phenolic content and antioxidant activity for the ethanolic extracts. No phenolic compound was detected in Lucuma (fruit and powder) and Pacae. Aqueous extracts from Lucuma and Algarrobo had the highest alpha-glucosidase inhibitory activities. Papayita arequipeña and Algarrobo had significant ACE inhibitory activities reflecting antihypertensive potential. These in vitro results point to the excellent potential of Peruvian fruits for food-based strategies for complementing effective antidiabetes and antihypertension solutions based on further animal and clinical studies.

Improving the accuracy of synovial fluid analysis in the diagnosis of prosthetic joint infection with simple and inexpensive biomarkers: C-reactive protein and adenosine deaminase.

PubMed

Sousa, R; Serrano, P; Gomes Dias, J; Oliveira, J C; Oliveira, A

2017-03-01

The aims of this study were to increase the diagnostic accuracy of the analysis of synovial fluid in the differentiation of prosthetic joint infection (PJI) by the addition of inexpensive biomarkers such as the levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), adenosine deaminase (ADA), alpha-2-macrogloblulin (α2M) and procalcitonin. Between January 2013 and December 2015, synovial fluid and removed implants were requested from 143 revision total joint arthroplasties. A total of 55 patients met inclusion criteria of the receipt of sufficient synovial fluid, tissue samples and removed implants for analysis. The diagnosis of PJI followed the definition from a recent International Consensus Meeting to create two groups of patients; septic and aseptic. Using receiver operating characteristic curves we determined the cutoff values and diagnostic accuracy for each marker. There were 23 PJIs and 32 patients with aseptic loosening. The levels of total leucocyte count, proportion of polymorphonuclear leucocytes (PMNs), CRP, ADA and α2M in the synovial fluid were all significantly higher in those with a PJI than in those with aseptic loosening. The levels of procalcitonin were comparable in the two groups. Cutoff values for the optimal performance in the diagnosis of infection were: total leucocyte count > 1463 cells/μL (sensitivity (Sens) 100%, specificity (Spec) 71.9%, positive predictive value (PPV) 71.9%, negative predictive value (NPV) 100%); proportion of PMNs > 81% (Sens 78.3%, Spec 75.0%, PPV 69.2%, NPV 82.8%); CRP > 6.7mg/L (Sens 78.3%, Spec 93.8%, PPV 90.0%, NPV 85.7%); ADA > 61U/L (Sens 78.3%, Spec 96.9%, PPV 94.7%, NPV 86.1%) and α2M > 958 mg/L (Sens 47.8%, Spec 96.9%, PPV 91.7%, NPV 72.1%). The addition of a raised level of CRP or ADA to the total leukocyte count increased the specificity: total leukocyte count > 1463 cells/μL and CRP > 6.7mg/L (Sens 78.3%, Spec 100%, PPV 100%, NPV 86.5%) or with ADA > 61U/L (Sens 78.3%, Spec 96.9%, PPV 94.7%, NPV 86.1%). The total leucocyte count in the synovial fluid offers great negative predictive value in the diagnosis of PJI and the addition of more specific markers such as CRP and ADA improves the positive predictive value. Thus the addition of simple and inexpensive markers to the measurement of the leucocyte count in the synovial fluid may reduce the number of equivocal results which demand more expensive investigation. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:351-7. ©2017 The British Editorial Society of Bone & Joint Surgery.

40 CFR 180.450 - Beta-(4-Chlorophenoxy)-alpha-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-1H-1,2,4-triazole-1-ethanol; tolerances for...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... None Corn, field, forage 0.05 None Corn, field, grain 0.05 None Corn, field, stover 0.05 None Corn, pop, grain 0.05 None Corn, pop, stover 0.05 None Corn, sweet, forage 0.05 None Corn, sweet, kernel plus cob with husks removed 0.05 None Corn, sweet, stover 0.05 None Cotton, undelinted seed 0.02 None Oat...

40 CFR 180.450 - Beta-(4-Chlorophenoxy)-alpha-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-1H-1,2,4-triazole-1-ethanol; tolerances for...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... None Corn, field, forage 0.05 None Corn, field, grain 0.05 None Corn, field, stover 0.05 None Corn, pop, grain 0.05 None Corn, pop, stover 0.05 None Corn, sweet, forage 0.05 None Corn, sweet, kernel plus cob with husks removed 0.05 None Corn, sweet, stover 0.05 None Cotton, undelinted seed 0.02 None Oat...

40 CFR 180.450 - Beta-(4-Chlorophenoxy)-alpha-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-1H-1,2,4-triazole-1-ethanol; tolerances for...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... None Corn, field, forage 0.05 None Corn, field, grain 0.05 None Corn, field, stover 0.05 None Corn, pop, grain 0.05 None Corn, pop, stover 0.05 None Corn, sweet, forage 0.05 None Corn, sweet, kernel plus cob with husks removed 0.05 None Corn, sweet, stover 0.05 None Cotton, undelinted seed 0.02 None Oat...

40 CFR 180.450 - Beta-(4-Chlorophenoxy)-alpha-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-1H-1,2,4-triazole-1-ethanol; tolerances for...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... None Corn, field, forage 0.05 None Corn, field, grain 0.05 None Corn, field, stover 0.05 None Corn, pop, grain 0.05 None Corn, pop, stover 0.05 None Corn, sweet, forage 0.05 None Corn, sweet, kernel plus cob with husks removed 0.05 None Corn, sweet, stover 0.05 None Cotton, undelinted seed 0.02 None Oat...

40 CFR 180.450 - Beta-(4-Chlorophenoxy)-alpha-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-1H-1,2,4-triazole-1-ethanol; tolerances for...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... None Corn, field, forage 0.05 None Corn, field, grain 0.05 None Corn, field, stover 0.05 None Corn, pop, grain 0.05 None Corn, pop, stover 0.05 None Corn, sweet, forage 0.05 None Corn, sweet, kernel plus cob with husks removed 0.05 None Corn, sweet, stover 0.05 None Cotton, undelinted seed 0.02 None Oat...

International Space Station (ISS)

NASA Image and Video Library

2007-06-13

STS-117 astronauts and mission specialists Patrick Forrester and Steven Swanson (out of frame), participated in the second Extra Vehicular Activity (EVA) as construction resumed on the International Space Station (ISS). Among other tasks, the two removed all of the launch locks holding the 10 foot wide solar alpha rotary joint in place and began the solar array retraction. The primary mission objective was the installment of the second and third starboard truss segments (S3 and S4).

Swanson moves to the S3/S4 Truss during STS-117 EVA 2

NASA Image and Video Library

2007-06-13

S117-E-07264 (13 June 2007) --- Astronauts Steven Swanson and Patrick Forrester (out of frame), both STS-117 mission specialists, participate in the mission's second planned session of extravehicular activity (EVA), as construction resumes on the International Space Station. Among other tasks, Forrester and Swanson removed all of the launch locks holding the 10-foot-wide solar alpha rotary joint in place and began the solar array retraction.

Forrester works at the P6 Truss during EVA 2 on STS-117 Mission

NASA Image and Video Library

2007-06-14

S117-E-07313 (13 June 2007) --- Astronauts Patrick Forrester and Steven Swanson (out of frame), both STS-117 mission specialists, participate in the mission's second planned session of extravehicular activity (EVA), as construction resumes on the International Space Station. Among other tasks, Forrester and Swanson removed all of the launch locks holding the 10-foot-wide solar alpha rotary joint in place and began the solar array retraction.

Forrester works at the P6 Truss during EVA 2 on STS-117 Mission

NASA Image and Video Library

2007-06-14

S117-E-07315 (13 June 2007) --- Astronauts Patrick Forrester and Steven Swanson (out of frame), both STS-117 mission specialists, participate in the mission's second planned session of extravehicular activity (EVA), as construction resumes on the International Space Station. Among other tasks, Forrester and Swanson removed all of the launch locks holding the 10-foot-wide solar alpha rotary joint in place and began the solar array retraction.

Forrester moves to the S3/S4 Truss during STS-117 EVA 2

NASA Image and Video Library

2007-06-13

S117-E-07258 (13 June 2007) --- Astronauts Patrick Forrester and Steven Swanson (out of frame), both STS-117 mission specialists, participate in the mission's second planned session of extravehicular activity (EVA), as construction resumes on the International Space Station. Among other tasks, Forrester and Swanson removed all of the launch locks holding the 10-foot-wide solar alpha rotary joint in place and began the solar array retraction.

THE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS OF TERNARY ALLOYS OF PLUTONIUM WITH MOLYBDENUM AND URANIUM

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

Phillips, G.; Woodhead, J.; Jenkins, E.N.

1958-09-01

It is shown that the absorptiometric determination of molybdenum as thiocyanate may be used in the presence of plutonium. Molybdenum interferes with previously published methods for determining uranium and plutonium but conditlons have been established for its complete removal by solvent extraction of the compound with alpha -benzoin oxime. The previous methods for uranium and plutonium are satisfactory when applied to the residual aqueous phase following this solvent extraction. (auth)

Nonresponse to 17-alpha hydroxyprogesterone caproate for recurrent spontaneous preterm birth prevention: clinical prediction and generation of a risk scoring system.

PubMed

Manuck, Tracy A; Stoddard, Gregory J; Fry, Rebecca C; Esplin, M Sean; Varner, Michael W

2016-11-01

Spontaneous preterm birth remains a leading cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality among nonanomalous neonates in the United States. Spontaneous preterm birth tends to recur at similar gestational ages. Intramuscular 17-alpha hydroxyprogesterone caproate reduces the risk of recurrent spontaneous preterm birth. Unfortunately, one-third of high-risk women will have a recurrent spontaneous preterm birth despite 17-alpha hydroxyprogesterone caproate therapy; the reasons for this variability in response are unknown. We hypothesized that clinical factors among women treated with 17-alpha hydroxyprogesterone caproate who suffer recurrent spontaneous preterm birth at a similar gestational age differ from women who deliver later, and that these associations could be used to generate a clinical scoring system to predict 17-alpha hydroxyprogesterone caproate response. Secondary analysis of a prospective, multicenter, randomized controlled trial enrolling women with ≥1 previous singleton spontaneous preterm birth <37 weeks' gestation. Participants received daily omega-3 supplementation or placebo for the prevention of recurrent preterm birth; all were provided 17-alpha hydroxyprogesterone caproate. Women were classified as a 17-alpha hydroxyprogesterone caproate responder or nonresponder by calculating the difference in delivery gestational age between the 17-alpha hydroxyprogesterone caproate-treated pregnancy and her earliest previous spontaneous preterm birth. Responders were women with pregnancy extending ≥3 weeks later compared with the delivery gestational age of their earliest previous preterm birth; nonresponders delivered earlier or within 3 weeks of the gestational age of their earliest previous preterm birth. A risk score for nonresponse to 17-alpha hydroxyprogesterone caproate was generated from regression models via the use of clinical predictors and was validated in an independent population. Data were analyzed with multivariable logistic regression. A total of 754 women met inclusion criteria; 159 (21%) were nonresponders. Responders delivered later on average (37.7±2.5 weeks) than nonresponders (31.5±5.3 weeks), P<.001. Among responders, 27% had a recurrent spontaneous preterm birth (vs 100% of nonresponders). Demographic characteristics were similar between responders and nonresponders. In a multivariable logistic regression model, independent risk factors for nonresponse to 17-alpha hydroxyprogesterone caproate were each additional week of gestation of the earliest previous preterm birth (odds ratio, 1.23; 95% confidence interval, 1.17-1.30, P<.001), placental abruption or significant vaginal bleeding (odds ratio, 5.60; 95% confidence interval, 2.46-12.71, P<.001), gonorrhea and/or chlamydia in the current pregnancy (odds ratio, 3.59; 95% confidence interval, 1.36-9.48, P=.010), carriage of a male fetus (odds ratio, 1.51; 95% confidence interval, 1.02-2.24, P=.040), and a penultimate preterm birth (odds ratio, 2.10; 95% confidence interval, 1.03-4.25, P=.041). These clinical factors were used to generate a risk score for nonresponse to 17-alpha hydroxyprogesterone caproate as follows: black +1, male fetus +1, penultimate preterm birth +2, gonorrhea/chlamydia +4, placental abruption +5, earliest previous preterm birth was 32-36 weeks +5. A total risk score >6 was 78% sensitive and 60% specific for predicting nonresponse to 17-alpha hydroxyprogesterone caproate (area under the curve=0.69). This scoring system was validated in an independent population of 287 women; in the validation set, a total risk score >6 performed similarly with a 65% sensitivity, 67% specificity and area under the curve of 0.66. Several clinical characteristics define women at risk for recurrent preterm birth at a similar gestational age despite 17-alpha hydroxyprogesterone caproate therapy and can be used to generate a clinical risk predictor score. These data should be refined and confirmed in other cohorts, and women at high risk for nonresponse should be targets for novel therapeutic intervention studies. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Treatment of olive mill wastewater by chemical processes: effect of acid cracking pretreatment.

PubMed

Hande Gursoy-Haksevenler, B; Arslan-Alaton, Idil

2014-01-01

The effect of acid cracking (pH 2.0; T 70 °C) and filtration as a pretreatment step on the chemical treatability of olive mill wastewater (chemical oxygen demand (COD) 150,000 m/L; total organic carbon (TOC) 36,000 mg/L; oil-grease 8,200 mg/L; total phenols 3,800 mg/L) was investigated. FeCl3 coagulation, Ca(OH)2 precipitation, electrocoagulation using stainless steel electrodes and the Fenton's reagent were applied as chemical treatment methods. Removal performances were examined in terms of COD, TOC, oil-grease, total phenols, colour, suspended solids and acute toxicity with the photobacterium Vibrio fischeri. Significant oil-grease (95%) and suspended solids (96%) accompanied with 58% COD, 43% TOC, 39% total phenols and 80% colour removals were obtained by acid cracking-filtration pretreatment. Among the investigated chemical treatment processes, electrocoagulation and the Fenton's reagent were found more effective after pretreatment, especially in terms of total phenols removal. Total phenols removal increased from 39 to 72% when pretreatment was applied, while no significant additional (≈10-15%) COD and TOC removals were obtained when acid cracking was coupled with chemical treatment. The acute toxicity of the original olive mill wastewater sample increased considerably after pretreatment from 75 to 89% (measured for the 10-fold diluted wastewater sample). An operating cost analysis was also performed for the selected chemical treatment processes.

Ultrastructural and biochemical localization of N-RAP at the interface between myofibrils and intercalated disks in the mouse heart.

PubMed

Zhang, J Q; Elzey, B; Williams, G; Lu, S; Law, D J; Horowits, R

2001-12-11

N-RAP is a recently discovered muscle-specific protein found at cardiac intercalated disks. Double immunogold labeling of mouse cardiac muscle reveals that vinculin is located immediately adjacent to the fascia adherens region of the intercalated disk membrane, while N-RAP extends approximately 100 nm further toward the interior of the cell. We partially purified cardiac intercalated disks using low- and high-salt extractions followed by density gradient centrifugation. Immunoblots show that this preparation is highly enriched in desmin and junctional proteins, including N-RAP, talin, vinculin, beta1-integrin, N-cadherin, and connexin 43. Electron microscopy and immunolabeling demonstrate that N-RAP and vinculin are associated with the large fragments of intercalated disks that are present in this preparation, which also contains numerous membrane vesicles. Detergent treatment of the partially purified intercalated disks removed the membrane vesicles and extracted vinculin and beta1-integrin. Further separation on a sucrose gradient removed residual actin and myosin and yielded a fraction morphologically similar to fasciae adherentes that was highly enriched in N-RAP, N-cadherin, connexin 43, talin, desmin, and alpha-actinin. The finding that N-RAP copurifies with detergent-extracted intercalated disk fragments even though beta-integrin and vinculin have been completely removed suggests that N-RAP association with the adherens junction region is mediated by the cadherin system. Consistent with this hypothesis, we found that recombinant N-RAP fragments bind alpha-actinin in a gel overlay assay. In addition, immunofluorescence shows that N-RAP remains bound at the ends of isolated, detergent-treated cardiac myofibrils. These results demonstrate that N-RAP remains tightly bound to myofibrils and fasciae adherentes during biochemical purification and may be a key constituent in the mechanical link between these two structures.

Prevalence of type I sensitization to alpha-gal in forest service employees and hunters.

PubMed

Fischer, J; Lupberger, E; Hebsaker, J; Blumenstock, G; Aichinger, E; Yazdi, A S; Reick, D; Oehme, R; Biedermann, T

2017-10-01

The production of IgE molecules specific to the carbohydrate galactose-α-1,3-galactose (alpha-gal) is known to induce delayed anaphylaxis against mammalian meat. Tick bites constitute the primary sensitization source, as ticks transfer alpha-gal in their saliva to a host during a bite. The reported prevalence of alpha-gal-specific IgE (alpha-gal-sIgE) positivity varies between different populations from diverse geographic regions. To investigate the prevalence of alpha-gal-sIgE positivity in a population of forest service employees who are highly exposed to ticks in comparison with a residential population and a historic sample. A cross-sectional study evaluating 300 forest service employees and hunters from southwest Germany was performed. Alpha-gal-sIgE levels were assessed by ImmunoCAP assay. The prevalence of alpha-gal-sIgE-positive individuals was compared with a matched cohort composed of a residential population and blood samples from forest service employees collected 15 years ago. In the study population, the prevalence of alpha-gal-sIgE-positive (≥0.10 kU A /L) individuals was 35.0%, whereas the prevalence of individuals with alpha-gal-sIgE levels ≥0.35 kU A /L was 19.3%. Alpha-gal-sIgE positivity was associated with total IgE levels and recent tick bites. Mammalian meat-induced delayed anaphylaxis was found in 8.6% of the participants with alpha-gal-sIgE levels ≥0.35 kU A /L. For forest service employees and hunters, the odds ratio for alpha-gal-sIgE positivity was 2.48 compared to the residential population. The prevalence of alpha-gal-sIgE positivity in the current and historic cohort was comparable. Forest service employees and hunters compose a population with a high prevalence of alpha-gal-sIgE positivity and carry a considerable risk of red meat allergy. © 2017 EAACI and John Wiley and Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd.

Targeting of mitochondrial Saccharomyces cerevisiae Ilv5p to the cytosol and its effect on vicinal diketone formation in brewing.

PubMed

Omura, Fumihiko

2008-03-01

Vicinal diketones (VDK) cause butter-like off-flavors in beer and are formed by a non-enzymatic oxidative decarboxylation of alpha-aceto-alpha-hydroxybutyrate and alpha-acetolactate, which are intermediates in isoleucine and valine biosynthesis taking place in the mitochondria. On the assumption that part of alpha-acetolactate can be formed also in the cytosol due to a mislocalization of the responsible acetohydroxyacid synthase encoded by ILV2 and ILV6, functional expression in the cytosol of acetohydroxyacid reductoisomerase (Ilv5p) was explored. Using the cytosolic Ilv5p, I aimed to metabolize the cytosolically formed alpha-aetolactate, thereby lowering the total VDK production. Among mutant Ilv5p enzymes with varying degrees of N-terminal truncation, one with a 46-residue deletion (Ilv5pDelta46) exhibited an unequivocal localization in the cytosol judged from microscopy of the Ilv5pDelta46-green fluorescent protein fusion protein and the inability of Ilv5pDelta46 to remedy the isoleucine/valine requirement of an ilv5Delta strain. When introduced into an industrial lager brewing strain, a robust expression of Ilv5pDelta46 was as effective as that of a wild-type Ilv5p in lowering the total VDK production in a 2-l scale fermentation trial. Unlike the case of the wild-type Ilv5p, an additional expression of Ilv5pDelta46 did not alter the quality of the resultant beer in terms of contents of aromatic compounds and organic acids.

Clinimetric Testing of the Comprehensive Cervical Dystonia Rating Scale

PubMed Central

Comella, C. L.; Perlmutter, J.S.; Jinnah, H. A.; Waliczek, T. A.; Rosen, A. R.; Galpern, W. R.; Adler, C. H.; Barbano, R. L.; Factor, S. A.; Goetz, C.G.; Jankovic, J.; Reich, S. G.; Rodriguez, R. L.; Severt, W. L.; Zurowski, M.; Fox, S. H.; Stebbins, G.T.

2016-01-01

Objective To test the clinimetric properties of the Comprehensive Cervical Dystonia Rating Scale. Background This is a modular scale with modifications of the Toronto Western Spasmodic Torticollis Rating Scale (composed of three subscales assessing motor severity, disability and pain) now referred to as the revised Toronto Western Spasmodic Torticollis Scale-2.; a newly developed psychiatric screening instrument; and the Cervical Dystonia Impact Profile-58 as a quality of life measure. Methods Ten dystonia experts rated subjects with cervical dystonia using the comprehensive scale. Clinimetric techniques assessed each module of the scale for reliability, item correlation and factor structure. Results There were 208 cervical dystonia patients (73% women, age 59±10 years, duration 15±12 years). The internal consistency of the motor severity subscale was acceptable (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.57). Item to total correlations showed that elimination of items with low correlations (<0.20) increased alpha to 0.71. Internal consistency estimates for the subscales for disability and pain were 0.88 and 0.95 respectively. The psychiatric screening scale had a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.84 and satisfactory item to total correlations. When the subscales of the Toronto Western Spasmodic Torticollis scale -2 were combined with the psychiatric screening scale, Cronbach's alpha was 0.88, and construct validity assessment demonstrated four rational factors: motor, disability, pain and psychiatric disorders. The Cervical Dystonia Impact Profile-58 had an alpha of 0.98 and its construction was validated through a confirmatory factor analysis. Conclusions The modules of the Comprehensive Cervical Dystonia Rating Scale are internally consistent with a logical factor structure. PMID:26971359

Absorption, tissue distribution and excretion of radiolabelled compounds in rats after administration of [14C]-L-alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine.

PubMed

Abbiati, G; Fossati, T; Lachmann, G; Bergamaschi, M; Castiglioni, C

1993-01-01

The kinetics and metabolism of L-alpha-glycerylphosphoryl-choline (alpha-GPC) were investigated in male and female rats after i.v. (10 mg/kg) and oral doses (100-300 mg/kg). alpha-GPC was labelled with [14C]-glycerol ([14G]-GPC) or [14C]-choline ([14C]-GPC). Different kinetic and metabolic profiles were observed after i.v. and oral administration. It is assumed that alpha-GPC is hydrolyzed by phosphodiesterases in the gut mucosa. The different labelled metabolites have different kinetic properties of absorption, distribution and clearance, leading to different blood concentration-time curves of total radioactivity. Both labelled compounds gave a wide distribution of radioactivity, particularly concentrated in the liver, kidney, lung and spleen compared to blood. Brain concentrations of [14C]-GPC were comparable to ([14G]-GPC) or lower than ([14C]-GPC) total blood radioactivity. The metabolite profile in the perfused brain showed a small amount of choline and two unknown metabolites, probably the same as in blood. In addition, choline was incorporated into brain phospholipids in increasing amounts within 24 h of dosing. In all cases renal and fecal excretion of radioactivity was low and comparable for [14G]-GPC and [14C]-GPC. Mostly the administered radioactivity was exhaled as 14CO2, this degradation being faster and more pronounced for the glycerol-labelled metabolites than for the choline-labelled metabolites for both routes of administration. In all cases the results were the same for male and female rats.

Total body calcium analysis using the Ca-12(n, alpha) Ar-37 reaction

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lewellen, T. K.; Nelp, W. B.

1977-01-01

A low dose neutron activation technique was developed to measure total body calcium in vivo. The effort had included development of irradiation and processing facilities and conduction of human studies to determine the accuracy and precision of measurement attainable with the systems.

Gene-specific changes in alpha-tubulin transcript accumulation in developing cotton fibers.

PubMed

Whittaker, D J; Triplett, B A

1999-09-01

The fibers of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) are single-cell trichomes that undergo rapid and synchronous elongation. Cortical microtubules provide spatial information necessary for the alignment of cellulose microfibrils that confine and regulate cell elongation. We used gene-specific probes to investigate alpha-tubulin transcript levels in elongating cotton fibers. Two discrete patterns of transcript accumulation were observed. Whereas transcripts of alpha-tubulin genes GhTua2/3 and GhTua4 increased in abundance from 10 to 20 d post anthesis (DPA), GhTua1 and GhTua5 transcripts were abundant only through to 14 DPA, and dropped significantly at 16 DPA with the onset of secondary wall synthesis. This is the first report, to our knowledge, of gene-specific changes in tubulin transcript levels during the development of a terminally differentiated plant cell. The decrease in abundance of GhTua1 and GhTua5 transcripts was correlated with pronounced changes in cell wall structure, suggesting that alpha-tubulin isoforms may be functionally distinct in elongating fiber cells. Although total alpha-tubulin transcript levels were much higher in fiber than several other tissues, including the hypocotyl and pollen, none of the alpha-tubulins was specific to fiber cells.

Characterization of adrenergic receptors of the cat iris and nictitating membrane.

PubMed

Koss, M C; Hey, J A; Gherezghiher, T

1990-01-01

Graded pupillary dilations and nictitating membrane (NM) contractions were elicited in anesthetized cats by electrical stimulation of the preganglionic sympathetic nerve or by i.a. administration of norepinephrine (NE) or phenylephrine into the carotid artery. Pupil and NM responses were measured simultaneously from the same side. Alpha-adrenoceptor antagonists were administered intravenously. All of the alpha 1-adrenoceptor blockers tested produced a dose-related reduction of NM responses to both neural and agonist activation; the potency rank order was prazosin greater than WB-4101 greater than phentolamine greater than phenoxybenzamine (PBZ). In contrast, responses of the iris dilator were antagonized only by WB-4101 and PBZ. The iris was almost totally refractory to doses of prazosin and phentolamine that blocked NM responses by more than 75% of control. Neither alpha 2- nor beta-adrenoceptor antagonism produced significant inhibition of neural or agonist activation of either organ (with the exception of high doses of yohimbine on the NM). These results suggest that the postjunctional adrenoceptors of the NM are exclusively of the alpha 1-adrenoceptor subtype. In contrast, those of the iris dilator muscle cannot be easily classified pharmacologically as either alpha 1 or alpha 2-adrenoceptors.

Nutrients removal in hybrid fluidised bed bioreactors operated with aeration cycles.

PubMed

Martin, Martin; Enríquez, L López; Fernández-Polanco, M; Villaverde, S; Garcia-Encina, P A

2007-01-01

Abstract Two hybrid fluidised bed reactors filled with sepiolite and granular activated carbon (GAC) were operated with short cycled aeration for removing organic matter, total nitrogen and phosphorous, respectively. Both reactors were continuously operated with synthetic and/or industrial wastewater containing 350-500 mg COD/L, 110-130 mg NKT/L, 90-100 mg NH3-N/L and 12-15 mg P/L for 8 months. The reactor filled with sepiolite, treating only synthetic wastewater, removed COD, ammonia, total nitrogen and phosphorous up to 88, 91, 55 and 80% with a hydraulic retention time (HRT) of 10 h, respectively. These efficiencies correspond to removal rates of 0.95 kgCODm(-3)d(-1) and 0.16 kg total N m(-3)d(-1). The reactor filled with GAC was operated for 4 months with synthetic wastewater and 4 months with industrial wastewater, removing 98% of COD, 96% of ammonia, and 66% of total nitrogen, with an HRT of 13.6 h. No significant phosphorous removing activity was observed in this reactor. Microbial communities growing with both reactors were followed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) techniques. The microbial fingerprints, i.e. DGGE profiles, indicated that biological communities in both reactors were stable along the operational period even when the operating conditions were changed.

Removal of disinfection byproduct (DBP) precursors in water by two-stage biofiltration treatment.

PubMed

Fu, Jie; Lee, Wan-Ning; Coleman, Clark; Nowack, Kirk; Carter, Jason; Huang, Ching-Hua

2017-10-15

The removal of precursors of 36 disinfection byproducts (DBPs) in effluents from flocculation/sedimentation process was evaluated across a pilot-scale two-stage biofiltration process, i.e., a sand/anthracite (SA) biofilter (empty bed contact time (EBCT) of 7.5 min) coupled with a biologically-active granular activated carbon (GAC) contactor (EBCT of 15 min). The biofiltration process exhibited a good capacity for removal of the total DBP formation potential (DBPFP) (by 25.90 ± 2.63%), and GAC contactors contributed most to the DBPFP removal (accounting for 60.63 ± 16.64% of the total removal). The removal percentage of DBPFPs of different structure types was in the following order: halonitroalkanes (58.50%) > haloaldehydes (33.62%) > haloacetic acids (HAAs, 28.13%) > haloalkanes (20.46%) > haloketones (13.46%) > nitrosamines (10.23%) > halonitriles (-8.82%) > haloalkenes (-9.84%). The precursors of bromo-DBPs (containing only bromine atoms) and maximal halogenated DBPs (containing 3 & 4 halo atoms) were removed largely compared to other DBPs. Among the total DBPFP, trihalomethanes (THMs), HAAs, and chloral hydrate were the dominant DBPs, and they accounted for >92% of the total targeted DBPs by weight. Pearson correlation analysis (CA) and principal components analysis (PCA) indicated a significant association among these dominant DBPs. Canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) revealed specific ultraviolet absorbance (SUVA 254 ) could serve as a good surrogate parameter for DBPFP. Pre-chlorination upstream of the biofilters may not greatly impact the overall removal of DBPFP by SA/GAC biofiltration. In addition, results showed that SA/GAC biofiltration was a useful procedure to remove the inorganic DBP chlorite. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Performance of different substrates in constructed wetlands planted with E. crassipes treating low-strength sewage under subtropical conditions.

PubMed

Lima, M X; Carvalho, K Q; Passig, F H; Borges, A C; Filippe, T C; Azevedo, J C R; Nagalli, A

2018-07-15

The present study aimed to assess removal potential of chemical oxygen demand (COD), total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN), total ammonia nitrogen (TAN), total phosphorus (TP) and acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) in synthetic wastewater simulating low-strength sewage by sequencing-batch mode constructed wetlands (CWs). Six CWs with three substrates (gravel, light expanded clay and clay bricks) and one CW of each substrate was planted with E. crassipes to verify the feasibility of using a floating macrophyte in CWs and verify the best optimized substrate. Results showed that the presence of E. crassipes enhanced the removal of COD for systems with gravel, increasing the removal efficiency from 37% in the unplanted system (CW G-U ) to 60% in the planted system (CW G-P ). The vegetated CW with clay bricks (CW B-P ) presented the best performance for both TKN and TAN removal, with maximum removal efficiencies of 68% and 35%, respectively. Phosphorus was observed to be efficiently removed in systems with clay bricks, both planted (CW B-U ) and unplanted (CW B-P ), with mean removal efficiencies of 82% and 87%, respectively, probably via adsorption. It was also observed that after 296days of operation, no desorption or increase on phosphorus in effluent samples were observed, thus indicating that the material was not yet saturated and phosphorus probably presents a strong binding to the media. ASA removal efficiency varied from 34% to 92% in CWs, probably due to plant uptake through roots and microbial biodegradation. Plant direct uptake varied from 4 to 74% of the total nitrogen and from 26 to 71% of the total phosphorus removed in CW G-P , CW C-P and CW B-P . E. crassipes was able to uptake up to 4.19g of phosphorus in CW C-P and 11.84g of nitrogen in CW B-P . The findings on this study suggest that E. crassipes could be used in CWs and clay bricks could significantly enhance phosphorus removal capacity in CWs. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Indications for eye removal over a 13-year period at an ophthalmology referral center in São Paulo, Brazil.

PubMed

Hime, Bernardo; Isenberg, Jordan; Rocha, Gustavo; Lowen, Marcia; Morales, Melina; Fernandes, Bruno Franco; Belfort, Rubens N

2017-01-01

To analyze the indications and types of eye removal at Latin America's highest-volume ophthalmic reference center in São Paulo, Brazil. A retrospective analysis was conducted of surgical pathological reports in the electronic database of the Ophthalmology Department of the Universidade Federal de São Paulo Hospital of patients who underwent eye-removal procedures between January 2000 and December 2012. A total of 412 cases met the inclusion criteria for this study. The most common indications for eye removal were ocular melanoma and retinoblastoma, representing 35.4% and 31.1% of the total cases, respectively. Other frequent indications included endophthalmitis (6.3%), nonspecific inflammation (4.1%), squamous cell carcinoma (3.6%), panophthalmitis (3.4%), and phthisis bulbi (1.2%). The remaining indications accounted for 14.8% of all cases, with each accounting for <1% of the total cases. Enucleation was the most common eye-removal procedure seen in our study. The two most common indications for eye removal were ocular melanoma and retinoblastoma. Alternative treatment options are effective in limiting the need for eye removal but are constrained by our public center's so cioeconomic context.

Grey water treatment in UASB reactor at ambient temperature.

PubMed

Elmitwalli, T A; Shalabi, M; Wendland, C; Otterpohl, R

2007-01-01

In this paper, the feasibility of grey water treatment in a UASB reactor was investigated. The batch recirculation experiments showed that a maximum total-COD removal of 79% can be obtained in grey-water treatment in the UASB reactor. The continuous operational results of a UASB reactor treating grey water at different hydraulic retention time (HRT) of 20, 12 and 8 hours at ambient temperature (14-24 degrees C) showed that 31-41% of total COD was removed. These results were significantly higher than that achieved by a septic tank (11-14%), the most common system for grey water pre-treatment, at HRT of 2-3 days. The relatively lower removal of total COD in the UASB reactor was mainly due to a higher amount of colloidal COD in the grey water, as compared to that reported in domestic wastewater. The grey water had a limited amount of nitrogen, which was mainly in particulate form (80-90%). The UASB reactor removed 24-36% and 10-24% of total nitrogen and total phosphorus, respectively, in the grey water, due to particulate nutrients removal by physical entrapment and sedimentation. The sludge characteristics of the UASB reactor showed that the system had stable performance and the recommended HRT for the reactor is 12 hours.

Critical evaluation of five methods for quantifying chewing lice (Insecta: Phthiraptera).

PubMed

Clayton, D H; Drown, D M

2001-12-01

Five methods for estimating the abundance of chewing lice (Insecta: Phthiraptera) were tested. To evaluate the methods, feral pigeons (Columba livia) and 2 species of ischnoceran lice were used. The fraction of lice removed by each method was compared, and least squares linear regression was used to determine how well each method predicted total abundance. Total abundance was assessed in most cases using KOH dissolution. The 2 methods involving dead birds (body washing and post-mortem-ruffling) provided better results than 3 methods involving live birds (dust-ruffling, fumigation chambers, and visual examination). Body washing removed the largest fraction of lice (>82%) and was an extremely accurate predictor of total abundance (r2 = 0.99). Post-mortem-ruffling was also an accurate predictor of total abundance (r2 > or = 0.88), even though it removed a smaller proportion of lice (<70%) than body washing. Dust-ruffling and fumigation chambers removed even fewer lice, but were still reasonably accurate predictors of total abundance, except in the case of data sets restricted to birds with relatively few lice. Visual examination, the only method not requiring that lice be removed from the host, was an accurate predictor of louse abundance, except in the case of wing lice on lightly parasitized birds.

Flocculent Settling of Food Wastes.

PubMed

Chowdhury, Mohammad Monirul Islam; Kim, Mingu; Haroun, Basem Mikhaeil; Nakhla, George; Keleman, Michael

2016-07-01

This study evaluated the flocculent settling in water and municipal wastewater (MWW) in a 10.6 ft deep column. A total of eight runs at three different testing conditions involving MWW alone, food waste (FW) alone, and FW in MWW (FW+MWW) were conducted. Total suspended solid (TSS), total BOD (TBOD), total COD (TCOD), total nitrogen (TN), and total phosphorous (TP) removal efficiencies after 3 hours of settling were 62%, 46%, 49%, 46% and 62% for FW, and 50%, 43%, 39%, 37% and 24% for MWW. Removal efficiencies of particulate COD (PCOD) and particulate BOD (PBOD) at the lowest surface overflow rate (SOR) of 1.1 m3/m2/hr corresponding to the longest settling time of 3 hours were 59% and 64% for FW, and 65% and 70% for FW with MWW samples. On the other hand, no significant variation between FW and FW with MWW was observed for PN removal after 3 hours of settling.

Compensatory increases in nuclear PGC1alpha protein are primarily associated with subsarcolemmal mitochondrial adaptations in ZDF rats.

PubMed

Holloway, Graham P; Gurd, Brendon J; Snook, Laelie A; Lally, Jamie; Bonen, Arend

2010-04-01

We examined in insulin-resistant muscle if, in contrast to long-standing dogma, mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation is increased and whether this is attributed to an increased nuclear content of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) gamma coactivator (PGC) 1alpha and the adaptations of specific mitochondrial subpopulations. Skeletal muscles from male control and Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats were used to determine 1) intramuscular lipid distribution, 2) subsarcolemmal and intermyofibrillar mitochondrial morphology, 3) rates of palmitate oxidation in subsarcolemmal and intermyofibrillar mitochondria, and 4) the subcellular localization of PGC1alpha. Electotransfection of PGC1alpha cDNA into lean animals tested the notion that increased nuclear PGC1alpha preferentially targeted subsarcolemmal mitochondria. Transmission electron microscope analysis revealed that in ZDF animals the number (+50%), width (+69%), and density (+57%) of subsarcolemmal mitochondria were increased (P < 0.05). In contrast, intermyofibrillar mitochondria remained largely unchanged. Rates of palmitate oxidation were approximately 40% higher (P < 0.05) in ZDF subsarcolemmal and intermyofibrillar mitochondria, potentially as a result of the increased PPAR-targeted proteins, carnitine palmitoyltransferase-I, and fatty acid translocase (FAT)/CD36. PGC1alpha mRNA and total protein were not altered in ZDF animals; however, a greater (approximately 70%; P < 0.05) amount of PGC1alpha was located in nuclei. Overexpression of PGC1alpha only increased subsarcolemmal mitochondrial oxidation rates. In ZDF animals, intramuscular lipids accumulate in the intermyofibrillar region (increased size and number), and this is primarily associated with increased oxidative capacity in subsarcolemmal mitochondria (number, size, density, and oxidation rates). These changes may result from an increased nuclear content of PGC1alpha, as under basal conditions, overexpression of PGC1alpha appears to target subsarcolemmal mitochondria.

Sensitization to the mammalian oligosaccharide galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose (alpha-gal): experience in a Flemish case series.

PubMed

Ebo, D G; Faber, M; Sabato, V; Leysen, J; Gadisseur, A; Bridts, C H; De Clerck, L S

2013-01-01

Recent observations have disclosed that the galactose-alpha (1,3)-galactose (alpha-gal) moiety of non-primate glycoproteins can constitute a target for meat allergy. To describe adults with allergic reactions to mammalian meat, dairy products and gelatin. To investigate whether patients could demonstrate sensitization to activated recombinant human coagulation factor VII ectapog alpha that is produced in baby hamster kidney cells. Ten adults with mammalian meat, dairy products and gelatin allergies were examined using quantification of specific IgE and/or skin prick test for red meat, milk, milk components, gelatin, cetuximab and eptacog alpha. Most patients demonstrate quite typical clinical histories and serological profiles, with anti-alpha-gal titers varying from less than 1% to over 25% of total serum IgE. All patients demonstrate negative sIgE for gelatin, except the patient with a genuine gelatin allergy. All patients also demonstrated a negative sIgE to recombinant milk components casein, lactalbumin and lactoglobulin. Specific IgE to eptacog was positive in 5 out of the 9 patients sensitized to alpha-gal and none of the 10 control individuals. This series confirms the importance of the alpha-gal carbohydrate moiety as a potential target for allergy to mammalian meat, dairy products and gelatin (oral, topical or parenteral) in a Flemish population of meat allergic adults. It also confirms in vitro tests to mammalian meat generally to be more reliable than mammalian meat skin tests, but that diagnosis can benefit from skin testing with cetuximab. Specific IgE to gelatin is far too insensitive to diagnose alphaa-gal related gelatin allergy. IgE binding studies indicate a potential risk of alpha-gal-containing human recombinant proteins produced in mammalians.

A modified UCT method for biological nutrient removal: configuration and performance.

PubMed

Vaiopoulou, E; Aivasidis, A

2008-07-01

A pilot-scale prototype activated sludge system is presented, which combines both, the idea of University of Cape Town (UCT) concept and the step denitrification cascade for removal of carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus. The experimental set-up consists of an anaerobic selector and stepwise feeding in subsequent three identical pairs of anoxic and oxic tanks. Raw wastewater with influent flow rates ranging between 48 and 168 l d(-1) was fed to the unit at hydraulic residence times (HRTs) of 5-18 h and was distributed at percentages of 60/25/15%, 40/30/30% and 25/40/35% to the anaerobic selector, 2nd and 3rd anoxic tanks, respectively (influent flow distribution before the anaerobic selector). The results for the entire experimental period showed high removal efficiencies of organic matter of 89% as total chemical oxygen demand removal and 95% removal for biochemical oxygen demand, 90% removal of total Kjeldahl nitrogen and total nitrogen removal through denitrification of 73%, mean phosphorus removal of 67%, as well as excellent settleability. The highest removal efficiency and the optimum performance were recorded at an HRT of about 9h and influent flow rate of 96 l d(-1), in which 60% is distributed to the anaerobic selector, 25% to the second anoxic tank and 15% to the last anoxic tank. Consequently, the plant configuration enhanced removal efficiency, optimized performance, saved energy, formed good settling sludge and provided operational assurance.

Supportive care needs of Mexican adult cancer patients: validation of the Mexican version of the Short-Form Supportive Care Needs Questionnaire (SCNS-SFM).

PubMed

Doubova, Svetlana V; Aguirre-Hernandez, Rebeca; Gutiérrez-de la Barrera, Marcos; Infante-Castañeda, Claudia; Pérez-Cuevas, Ricardo

2015-09-01

The purpose of this study is to validate the Mexican version of the Short-Form Supportive Care Needs survey (SCNS-SFM). A cross-sectional survey was conducted from June to December 2013 at the Oncology Hospital of the Mexican Institute of Social Security in Mexico City. The study included 825 subsequent cancer patients >20 years of age with all forms of solid cancer. Patients had prior surgical removal of histologically confirmed cancer and attended outpatient consultations. Validation of SCNS-SFM included the following: (1) content validity through a group of experts; (2) construct validity through an exploratory factor analysis based on the polychoric correlation matrix; (3) internal consistency using Cronbach's alpha; (4) convergent validity between SCNS-SFM and quality of life, anxiety, and depression scales by calculating Pearson's correlation coefficient; (5) discriminative validity through analysis of MANOVAs; and (6) test-retest reliability using intraclass correlation coefficient calculations. SCNS-SFM has 33 items with five factors accounting for 59 % of total variance. Cronbach's alpha values ranged from 0.78 to 0.90 among factors. SCNS-SFM has good convergent validity compared with quality of life and depression and anxiety scales and good discriminative validity, revealing great information, psychological support, and physical daily living needs for women, patients <60 years, and high physical daily living needs for those with <1 year since cancer diagnosis, with advanced disease stages and current chemo- or radiotherapy. Intraclass correlation coefficient between SCNS-SFM measurements was 0.9. SCNS-SFM has acceptable psychometric properties and is suitable to evaluate supportive care needs of cancer patients.

[Contents of calcium, phosphorus and aluminum in central nervous system, liver and kidney of rabbits with experimental atherosclerosis--scavenger effects of vinpocetine on the deposition of elements].

PubMed

Yasui, M; Yano, I; Ota, K; Oshima, A

1990-04-01

The aims in this study were designed to clarify the contents of calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P) and aluminum (Al) in central nervous system (CNS), liver and kidney of rabbits with atherosclerosis experimentally induced by cholesterol-rich diet, and investigate scavenger effect of 14-ethoxycarbonyl-(3 alpha, 16 alpha-ethyl)-14,15-eburnamenine (vinpocetine) on the deposition of these elements in CNS and soft tissues of experimental atherosclerosis. Sixteen male rabbits were divided into 4 groups. Each group was fed with standard diet (Group A), standard diet containing 1.5% cholesterol (Group B), standard diet containing 1.5% cholesterol plus oral administration of 3 mg/kg/day vinpocetine (Group C), and standard diet containing 1.5% cholesterol plus administration of 10 mg/kg/day vinpocetine (Group D). After 3 months' feeding, experimental atherosclerosis was produced with a modified method of Kritchevsky et al in rabbits of Groups B, C and D. Blood was collected by cardiocentesis under the anesthesia of ether and then rabbits sacrificed to remove CNS and other tissues. The blood was stood for 1 hour at room temperature and separated by centrifugation at 3000 rpm for 10 min to determine serum total cholesterol, phospholipids, HDL-cholesterol, peroxide lipid, NEFA and calcium levels. Ca, P and Al contents in the frontal lobe, pons, cerebellum, spinal cord, liver and kidney were determined by neutron activation analysis. Ca contents of CNS, liver and kidney in Group B significantly increased than those of Group A (p less than 0.01), and significantly decreased in Groups C and D compared with those of Group B (p less than 0.01).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Modification and Evaluation of a Velopharyngeal Insufficiency Quality of Life Instrument

PubMed Central

Skirko, Jonathan R.; Weaver, Edward M; Perkins, Jonathan; Kinter, Sara; Sie, Kathleen C.Y.

2018-01-01

Objective Modify the existing 45-item velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI) quality of life (QOL) instrument (VPIQL), assess the modified instrument for reliability and provide further validation. There are patient and parent versions of the instrument. Design Validation convenience sample from a previously conducted pilot study. Setting Two academic tertiary referral medical centers. Participants De-identified data were used from 29 subjects with VPI and 29 control subjects age 5–17 years, and parents. Outcome measures Subjects and parents completed VPIQL and a generic pediatric QOL instrument (PedsQL4-0). Data Analysis Twenty-two items were removed from the VPIQL for ceiling effects, floor effects, and redundancy, to produce the modified instrument, VPI Effects on Life Outcomes (VELO) instrument. VELO was tested for internal consistency (Chronbach’s alpha), discriminant validity (paired t-test with control subjects), and concurrent validity (Pearson correlation with the PedsQL4-0). These analyses were also completed for parents. Results The 45-item VPIQL instrument was reduced to the 23-item VELO instrument. The VELO had excellent internal consistency (Chronbach’s alpha 0.96 for parents and 0.95 for VPI subjects). The VELO discriminated well between VPI and control subjects, with mean score (SD) was significantly lower (worse) for VPI subjects (67.6 [23.9]) than for control subjects (97.0 [5.2]) (p<0.0001). The VELO total score was significantly correlated with the PedsQL4.0 (r=0.73) among subjects with VPI. Similar results were seen in parent responses. Conclusions The VELO is a 23-item QOL instrument that was designed to measure and follow QOL in subjects with VPI, with less burden than the original VPIQL. VELO demonstrates internal consistency, disciminant validty, and concurrent validity with the PedsQL4-0. PMID:23069823

The role of aromatic phenylalanine residues in binding carotenoid to light-harvesting model and wild-type complexes.

PubMed

García-Martín, A; Pazur, A; Wilhelm, B; Silber, M; Robert, B; Braun, P

2008-09-26

The mode of carotenoid (Crt) binding to polypeptide and specifying its function is as yet largely unknown. Statistical analysis of major photosystems I and II suggests that aromatic residues make up a significant part of the Crt binding pockets. Phenylalanine residues ensure approximately 25%--at some carbon atoms even up to 40%--of the total contacts with Crts. By use of an alanine-leucine model transmembrane helix that replaces the native helix of the bacterial light-harvesting complex 2 (LH2) alpha-subunit, we study the effects of polypeptide residues on cofactor binding in a model sequence context. Here, it is shown that phenylalanine residues located in the close vicinity of the Crts' polyene backbone significantly contribute to the binding of the Crt to the model protein. The replacement of a phenylalanine with leucine in the model helix results in significant reduction in the complexes' Crt content. This effect is strongly enhanced by the removal of a second phenylalanine in close vicinity to the Crt, i.e., of the wild-type (WT) beta-subunit. Remarkably, the mutation of only two phenylalanine residues in the LH2 WT sequence, alpha-Phe at position -12 and beta-Phe at -8, results in the loss of nearly 50% of functional Crt. Resonance Raman spectra indicate that the Crt conformation is fundamentally altered by the absence of the phenylalanines' aromatic side chains, suggesting that they lock the Crt into a precise, well-defined configuration. Thus, binding and specific functionalisation of Crt in the model and WT light-harvesting complex is reliant on the aromatic residue phenylalanine. The use of the light-harvesting complex as a model system thus substantiates the notion that the aromatic residue phenylalanine is a key factor for the binding of Crt to transmembrane proteins.

Translation and Cross-cultural Adaptation of the Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Score into Persian Language: Reassessment of Validity and Reliability

PubMed Central

Mousavian, Alireza; Kachooie, Amir Reza; Birjandinejad, Ali; Khoshsaligheh, Masood; Ebrahimzadeh, Mohammad Hosein

2018-01-01

Background: This study aimed Persian translation and validation of the hip disability and osteoarthritis outcome score (HOOS) questionnaire. Methods: The study was carried out in two phases. First, we translated the HOOS according to acceptable guidelines. We assessed HOOS content convergent validity on 203 hip osteoarthritis patients using SF-36. Internal consistency was tested using Cronbach's alpha coefficient if each item removed and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) for the assessment of test-retest reproducibility. Results: Patients had mean (standard deviation) age of 39 (17). Test-retest ICC in whole was 0.95 (P = 0.014) showing excellent reliability. ICC was 0.92 for the “pain” subscale (P = 0.02), 0.81 for the “symptom” subscale (P = 0.002), 0.81 for the “function of daily living (FDL)” (P = 0.022), 0.88 for the “function of sports and recreational activities” (P = 0.006), but it was 0.62 (P = 0.1) for the “quality of life (QOL).” Cronbach's alpha was 0.92, 0.73, 0.97, 0.86, 0.80, and 0.80 for the pain, symptom, FDL, function of sports, QOL, and stiffness, respectively, showing good to excellent internal consistancy. Having SF-36 for the assessment of convergent validity, there was a strong correlation between total HOOS score and the physical component summary domain of SF-36 (r = 0.64, P = 0.0001), whereas the t correlation with the mental component summary domain was weak (r = 0.16, P = 0.04). Conclusions: The Persian version of the HOOS questionnaire is a valid (regarding physical not mental aspects) and reliable assessment tool in patients with hip osteoarthritis. PMID:29619147

Modeling of Iron K Lines: Radiative and Auger Decay Data for Fe II-Fe IX

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Palmeri, P.; Mendoza, C.; Kallman, T. R.; Bautista, M. A.; Melendez, M.

2003-01-01

A detailed analysis of the radiative and Auger de-excitation channels of K-shell vacancy states in Fe II-Fe IX has been carried out. Level energies, wavelengths, A-values, Auger rates and fluorescence yields have been calculated for the lowest fine-structure levels populated by photoionization of the ground state of the parent ion. Different branching ratios, namely K alpha 2/K alpha 1, K beta/K alpha, KLM/KLL, KMM/KLL, and the total K-shell fluorescence yields, omega(sub k), obtained in the present work have been compared with other theoretical data and solid-state measurements, finding good general agreement with the latter. The Kalpha 2/K alpha l ratio is found to be sensitive to the excitation mechanism. From these comparisons it has been possible to estimate an accuracy of approx.10% for the present transition probabilities.

Radioresistance in murine solid tumors induced by interleukin-1

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

Braunschweiger, P.G.; Basrur, V.; Santos, O.

1996-02-01

Interleukin-1 (IL-1) has radioprotective activity in hematopoietic lineages and in other normal cell renewal systems, but little is known about the effects of IL-1{alpha} on the radiosensitivity of tumor cell populations. The present studies were conducted to investigate the effects of IL-1{alpha} on the radiosensitivity of clonogenic cells in RIF-1 and SCC-7 tumors. Radioresistance was detected within 2-4 h after administration of IL-1{alpha} (0.5 {mu}g/mouse, ip) and characterized by increases in D{sub 0}, D{sub q}, {alpha}/{Beta} and SF2. This radioresistance was similar to that seen in tumors rendered totally hypoxic before X irradiation. Tirapazamine, a hypoxic cell cytotoxin, and IL-1{alpha}more » had synergistic schedule-dependent antitumor activity in vivo, suggesting that IL-1-induced radioresistance in vivo is due to hypoxia. Radioresistance induced by IL-1{alpha} was transient, and the data suggested reoxygenation within 12 h. In vitro, IL-1{alpha} had no direct effect on the radiosensitivity of SCC-7 cells in tissue culture under aerobic conditions. However, an increase in D{sub 0}, {alpha}/{Beta} and SF2 was seen in clonogenic tumor cells from primary cultures treated with IL-1{alpha} under aerobic conditions. Superoxide dismutase and catalase prevented the induction of radioresistance by IL-1{alpha} in vitro, suggesting that oxidative responses from tumor macrophages after administration of IL-1{alpha} may be responsible for induced radioresistance by IL-1 in vitro. Although oxidant stress induced by IL-1 may play an important role in the activity of IL-1{alpha} both in vivo and in vitro in our models, the mechanisms by which such responses modulate tumor radiosensitivity in vivo and in vitro are likely quite different. 32 refs., 6 figs., 1 tab.« less

TNF-alpha SNP haplotype frequencies in equidae.

PubMed

Brown, J J; Ollier, W E R; Thomson, W; Matthews, J B; Carter, S D; Binns, M; Pinchbeck, G; Clegg, P D

2006-05-01

Tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) is a pro-inflammatory cytokine that plays a crucial role in the regulation of inflammatory and immune responses. In all vertebrate species the genes encoding TNF-alpha are located within the major histocompatability complex. In the horse TNF-alpha has been ascribed a role in a variety of important disease processes. Previously two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been reported within the 5' un-translated region of the equine TNF-alpha gene. We have examined the equine TNF-alpha promoter region further for additional SNPs by analysing DNA from 131 horses (Equus caballus), 19 donkeys (E. asinus), 2 Grant's zebras (E. burchellii boehmi) and one onager (E. hemionus). Two further SNPs were identified at nucleotide positions 24 (T/G) and 452 (T/C) relative to the first nucleotide of the 522 bp polymerase chain reaction product. A sequence variant at position 51 was observed between equidae. SNaPSHOT genotyping assays for these and the two previously reported SNPs were performed on 457 horses comprising seven different breeds and 23 donkeys to determine the gene frequencies. SNP frequencies varied considerably between different horse breeds and also between the equine species. In total, nine different TNF-alpha promoter SNP haplotypes and their frequencies were established amongst the various equidae examined, with some haplotypes being found only in horses and others only in donkeys or zebras. The haplotype frequencies observed varied greatly between different horse breeds. Such haplotypes may relate to levels of TNF-alpha production and disease susceptibility and further investigation is required to identify associations between particular haplotypes and altered risk of disease.

Alpha-linolenic acid supplementation and resistance training in older adults.

PubMed

Cornish, Stephen M; Chilibeck, Philip D

2009-02-01

Increased inflammation with aging has been linked to sarcopenia. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of supplementing older adults with alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) during a resistance training program, based on the hypothesis that ALA decreases the plasma concentration of the inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha and interleukin (IL)-6, which in turn would improve muscle size and strength. Fifty-one older adults (65.4 +/- 0.8 years) were randomized to receive ALA in flax oil (~14 g.day-1) or placebo for 12 weeks while completing a resistance training program (3 days a week). Subjects were evaluated at baseline and after 12 weeks for muscle thickness of knee and elbow flexors and extensors (B-mode ultrasound), muscle strength (1 repetition maximum), body composition (dual energy X-ray absorptiometry), and concentrations of TNF-alpha and IL-6. Males supplementing with ALA decreased IL-6 concentration over the 12 weeks (62 +/- 36% decrease; p = 0.003), with no other changes in inflammatory cytokines. Chest and leg press strength, lean tissue mass, muscle thickness, hip bone mineral content and density, and total bone mineral content significantly increased, and percent fat and total body mass decreased with training (p < 0.05), with the only benefit of ALA being a significantly greater increase in knee flexor muscle thickness in males (p < 0.05). Total-body bone mineral density improved in the placebo group, with no change in the ALA group (p = 0.05). ALA supplementation lowers the IL-6 concentration in older men but not women, but had minimal effect on muscle mass and strength during resistance training.

Neoplasms treatment by diode laser with and without real time temperature control on operation zone

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Belikov, Andrey V.; Gelfond, Mark L.; Shatilova, Ksenia V.; Sosenkova, Svetlana A.; Lazareva, Anastasia A.; Semyashkina, Yulia V.

2016-04-01

Results of nevus, papilloma, dermatofibroma, and basal cell skin cancer in vivo removal by a 980+/-10 nm diode laser with "blackened" tip operating in continuous (CW) mode and automatic power control (APC) mode are presented. The collateral damage width and width of graze wound area around the collateral damage area were demonstrated. The total damage area width was calculated as sum of collateral damage width and graze wound area width. The mean width of total damage area reached 1.538+/-0.254 mm for patient group with nevus removing by 980 nm diode laser operating in CW mode, papilloma - 0.586+/-0.453 mm, dermatofibroma - 1.568+/-0.437 mm, and basal cell skin cancer - 1.603+/-0.613 mm. The mean width of total damage area reached 1.201+/-0.292 mm for patient group with nevus removing by 980 nm diode laser operating in APC mode, papilloma - 0.413+/-0.418 mm, dermatofibroma - 1.240+/-0.546 mm, and basal cell skin cancer - 1.204+/-0.517 mm. It was found that using APC mode decreases the total damage area width at removing of these nosological neoplasms of human skin, and decreases the width of graze wound area at removing of nevus and basal cell skin cancer. At the first time, the dynamic of output laser power and thermal signal during laser removal of nevus in CW and APC mode is presented. It was determined that output laser power during nevus removal for APC mode was 1.6+/-0.05 W and for CW mode - 14.0+/-0.1 W. This difference can explain the decrease of the total damage area width and width of graze wound area for APC mode in comparison with CW mode.

Timing of urinary catheter removal after uncomplicated total abdominal hysterectomy: a prospective randomized trial.

PubMed

Ahmed, Magdy R; Sayed Ahmed, Waleed A; Atwa, Khaled A; Metwally, Lobna

2014-05-01

To assess whether immediate (0h), intermediate (after 6h) or delayed (after 24h) removal of an indwelling urinary catheter after uncomplicated abdominal hysterectomy can affect the rate of re-catheterization due to urinary retention, rate of urinary tract infection, ambulation time and length of hospital stay. Prospective randomized controlled trial conducted at Suez Canal University Hospital, Egypt. Two hundred and twenty-one women underwent total abdominal hysterectomy for benign gynecological diseases and were randomly allocated into three groups. Women in group A (73 patients) had their urinary catheter removed immediately after surgery. Group B (81 patients) had the catheter removed 6h post-operatively while in group C (67 patients) the catheter was removed after 24h. The main outcome measures were the frequency of urinary retention, urinary tract infections, ambulation time and length of hospital stay. There was a significantly higher number of urinary retention episodes requiring re-catheterization in the immediate removal group compared to the intermediate and delayed removal groups (16.4% versus 2.5% and 0% respectively). Delayed urinary catheter removal was associated with a higher incidence of urinary tract infections (15%), delayed ambulation time (10.3h) and longer hospital stay (5.6 days) compared to the early (1.4%, 4.1h and 3.2 days respectively) and intermediate (3.7%, 6.8h and 3.4 days respectively) removal groups. Removal of the urinary catheter 6h postoperatively appears to be more advantageous than early or late removal in cases of uncomplicated total abdominal hysterectomy. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Regulation of intracellular pH in the rabbit cortical collecting tubule.

PubMed Central

Weiner, I D; Hamm, L L

1990-01-01

The cortical collecting tubule (CCT) is an important nephron segment for Na+, K+, water and acid-base transport. Differential loading characteristics of the pH sensitive dye 2',7'-bis-(2-carboxyethyl)-5(and-6)carboxyfluorescein (BCECF) and basolateral Cl- removal were used to identify and study intracellular pH (pHi) regulation in each of three cell types involved in this transport. Both principal cells and beta-intercalated cells were found to have a basolateral Na+/H+ exchanger based on the Na+ and amiloride sensitivity of pHi recovery from acid loads. Intercalated cells demonstrated abrupt pHi changes with basolateral Cl- removal. alpha-intercalated cells alkalinized; beta-intercalated cells acidified. In the beta-intercalated cells, luminal Cl- removal blocked changes in pHi in response to changes in luminal HCO3- or peritubular Cl-, providing direct evidence for a luminal Cl-/HCO3- exchanger. In principal cells, brief removal of either peritubular or luminal Cl- resulted in no change in pHi; however, return of peritubular Cl- after prolonged removal resulted in a rapid fall in pHi consistent with a basolateral Cl-/HCO3- exchanger, which may be relatively inactive under baseline conditions. Therefore, Cl-/HCO3- exchange is present in all three cell types but varies in location and activity. PMID:2153152

An intelligent displacement pumping film system: a new concept for enhancing heavy metal ion removal efficiency from liquid waste.

PubMed

Wang, Zhongde; Feng, Yanting; Hao, Xiaogang; Huang, Wei; Guan, Guoqing; Abudula, Abuliti

2014-06-15

A concept of electrochemically switched ion exchange (ESIX) hybrid film system with piston-like proton pumping effect for the removal of heavy metal ions was proposed. Based on this concept, a novel ESIX hybrid film composed of layered alpha zirconium phosphate (α-Zr(HPO4)2; α-ZrP) nanosheets intercalated with a potential-responsive conducting polyaniline (PANI) was developed for the removal of Ni(2+) ions from wastewater. It is expected that the space between α-ZrP nanosheets acts as the reservoir for the functional ions while the intercalated PANI works as the potential-sensitive function element for piston-like proton pumping in such ESIX hybrid films. The prepared ESIX hybrid film showed an excellent property of rapid removal of Ni(2+) ions from wastewater with a high selectivity. The used film was simply regenerated by only altering the applied potential. The ion pumping effect for the ESIX of Ni(2+) ions using this kind of film was proved via XPS analysis. The proposed ESIX hybrid film should have high potential for the removal of Ni(2+) ions and/or other heavy metal ions from wastewater in various industrial processes. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Impact of wastewater treatment configuration and seasonal conditions on thyroid hormone disruption and stress effects in Rana catesbeiana tailfin.

PubMed

Wojnarowicz, Pola; Ogunlaja, Olumuyiwa O; Xia, Chen; Parker, Wayne J; Helbing, Caren C

2013-12-03

Improved endocrine disrupting compound (EDC) removal is desirable in municipal wastewater treatment plants (MWWTPs) although increased removal does not always translate into reduced biological activity. Suitable methods for determining reduction in biological activity of effluents are needed. In order to determine which MWWTPs are the most effective at removing EDC activities, we operated three configurations of pilot sized biological reactors (conventional activated sludge, CAS; nitrifying activated sludge, NAS; and biological nutrient removal, BNR) receiving the same influent under simulated winter and summer conditions. As frogs are model organisms for the study of thyroid hormone (TH) action, we used the North American species Rana catesbeiana in a cultured tadpole tailfin (C-fin) assay to compare the effluents. TH-responsive (thyroid hormone receptors alpha (thra) and beta (thrb)) and stress-responsive (superoxide dismutase, catalase, and heat shock protein 30) mRNA transcript levels were examined. Effluents infrequently perturbed stress-responsive transcript abundance but thra/thrb levels were significantly altered. In winter conditions, CAS caused frequent TH perturbations while BNR caused none. In summer conditions, however, BNR caused substantial TH perturbations while CAS caused few. Our findings contrast other studies of seasonal variations of EDC removal and accentuate the importance of utilizing appropriate biological readouts for assessing EDC activities.

Removal of {sup 222}Rn daughters from metal surfaces

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

Zuzel, G.; Wojcik, M.; Majorovits, B.

Removal of the long-lived {sup 222}Rn daughters ({sup 210}Pb, {sup 210}Bi and {sup 210}Po) from copper, stainless steel and germanium surfaces was investigated. As cleaning techniques etching and electro-polishing was applied to samples in a form of discs exposed earlier to a strong radon source. Reduction of the {sup 210}Pb activity was tested using a HPGe spectrometer, for {sup 210}Bi a beta spectrometer and for {sup 210}Po an alpha spectrometer was used. According to the conducted measurements electro-polishing was always more efficient compared to etching and in case of copper the activity reduction factors for {sup 210}Pb, {sup 210}Bi andmore » {sup 210}Po were between 200 and 400. Etching does not remove {sup 210}Po from copper but works very efficiently from germanium. Results obtained for {sup 210}Pb and {sup 210}Bi for etched stainless steel were worse but still slightly better than those achieved for copper.« less

Method of separating short half-life radionuclides from a mixture of radionuclides

DOEpatents

Bray, Lane A.; Ryan, Jack L.

1999-01-01

The present invention is a method of removing an impurity of plutonium, lead or a combination thereof from a mixture of radionuclides that contains the impurity and at least one parent radionuclide. The method has the steps of (a) insuring that the mixture is a hydrochloric acid mixture; (b) oxidizing the acidic mixture and specifically oxidizing the impurity to its highest oxidation state; and (c) passing the oxidized mixture through a chloride form anion exchange column whereupon the oxidized impurity absorbs to the chloride form anion exchange column and the 22.sup.9 Th or 2.sup.27 Ac "cow" radionuclide passes through the chloride form anion exchange column. The plutonium is removed for the purpose of obtaining other alpha emitting radionuclides in a highly purified form suitable for medical therapy. In addition to plutonium; lead, iron, cobalt, copper, uranium, and other metallic cations that form chloride anionic complexes that may be present in the mixture; are removed from the mixture on the chloride form anion exchange column.

Method of separating short half-life radionuclides from a mixture of radionuclides

DOEpatents

Bray, L.A.; Ryan, J.L.

1999-03-23

The present invention is a method of removing an impurity of plutonium, lead or a combination thereof from a mixture of radionuclides that contains the impurity and at least one parent radionuclide. The method has the steps of (a) insuring that the mixture is a hydrochloric acid mixture; (b) oxidizing the acidic mixture and specifically oxidizing the impurity to its highest oxidation state; and (c) passing the oxidized mixture through a chloride form anion exchange column whereupon the oxidized impurity absorbs to the chloride form anion exchange column and the {sup 229}Th or {sup 227}Ac ``cow`` radionuclide passes through the chloride form anion exchange column. The plutonium is removed for the purpose of obtaining other alpha emitting radionuclides in a highly purified form suitable for medical therapy. In addition to plutonium, lead, iron, cobalt, copper, uranium, and other metallic cations that form chloride anionic complexes that may be present in the mixture are removed from the mixture on the chloride form anion exchange column. 8 figs.

Regulation of hepatic 7 alpha-hydroxylase expression by dietary psyllium in the hamster.

PubMed Central

Horton, J D; Cuthbert, J A; Spady, D K

1994-01-01

Soluble fiber consistently lowers plasma total and low density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol concentrations in humans and various animal models including the hamster; however, the mechanism of this effect remains incompletely defined. We performed studies to determine the activity of dietary psyllium on hepatic 7 alpha-hydroxylase, 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG CoA) reductase and LDL receptor expression in the hamster. In animals fed a cholesterol-free semisynthetic diet containing 7.5% cellulose (avicel) as a fiber source, substitution of psyllium for avicel increased hepatic 7 alpha-hydroxylase activity and mRNA levels by 3-4-fold. Comparable effects on 7 alpha-hydroxylase expression were observed with 1% cholestyramine. Psyllium also increased hepatic 7 alpha-hydroxylase activity and mRNA in animals fed a diet enriched with cholesterol and triglyceride. Activation of 7 alpha-hydroxylase was associated with an increase in hepatic cholesterol synthesis that was apparently not fully compensatory since the cholesterol content of the liver declined. Although dietary psyllium did not increase hepatic LDL receptor expression in animals fed the cholesterol-free, very-low-fat diet, it did increase (or at least restore) receptor expression that had been downregulated by dietary cholesterol and triglyceride. Thus, 7.5% dietary psyllium produced effects on hepatic 7 alpha-hydroxylase and LDL metabolism that were similar to those of 1% cholestyramine. Induction of hepatic 7 alpha-hydroxylase activity by dietary psyllium may account, in large part, for the hypocholesterolemic effect of this soluble fiber. Images PMID:8182140

In vitro inhibition activity of polyphenol-rich extracts from Syzygium aromaticum (L.) Merr. & Perry (Clove) buds against carbohydrate hydrolyzing enzymes linked to type 2 diabetes and Fe(2+)-induced lipid peroxidation in rat pancreas.

PubMed

Adefegha, Stephen Adeniyi; Oboh, Ganiyu

2012-10-01

To investigate and compare the inhibitory properties of free and bound phenolic extracts of clove bud against carbohydrate hydrolyzing enzymes (alpha-amylase & alpha-glucosidase) and Fe(2+)-induced lipid peroxidation in rat pancreas in vitro. The free phenolics were extracted with 80% (v/v) acetone, while bound phenolics were extracted from the alkaline and acid hydrolyzed residue with ethyl acetate. Then, the interaction of the extracts with alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase was subsequently assessed. Thereafter, the total phenolic contents and antioxidant activities of the extracts were determined. The result revealed that both extracts inhibited alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase in a dose-dependent manner. However, the alpha-glucosidase inhibitory activity of the extracts were significantly (P<0.05) higher than their alpha-amylase inhibitory activity. The free phenolics (31.67 mg/g) and flavonoid (17.28 mg/g) contents were significantly (P<0.05) higher than bound phenolic (23.52 mg/g) and flavonoid (13.70 mg/g) contents. Both extracts also exhibited high antioxidant activities as typified by their high reducing power, 1,1 diphenyl-2- picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2, 2-azinobis-3-ethylbenzo-thiazoline-6-sulfonate (ABTS) radical scavenging abilities, as well as inhibition of Fe(2+)-induced lipid peroxidation in rat pancreas in vitro. This study provides a biochemical rationale by which clove elicits therapeutic effect on type 2 diabetes.

Interruption of spinal cord microglial signaling by alpha-2 agonist dexmedetomidine in a murine model of delayed paraplegia.

PubMed

Bell, Marshall T; Agoston, Viktor A; Freeman, Kirsten A; Puskas, Ferenc; Herson, Paco S; Mares, Joshua; Fullerton, David A; Reece, T Brett

2014-04-01

Despite investigation into preventable pharmacologic adjuncts, paraplegia continues to complicate thoracoabdominal aortic interventions. The alpha 2a adrenergic receptor agonist, dexmedetomidine, has been shown to preserve neurologic function and neuronal viability in a murine model of spinal cord ischemia reperfusion, although the mechanism remains elusive. We hypothesize that dexmedetomidine will blunt postischemic inflammation in vivo following thoracic aortic occlusion with in vitro demonstration of microglial inhibition following lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation. Adult male C57BL/6 mice underwent 4 minutes of aortic occlusion. Mice received 25 μg/kg intraperitoneal dexmedetomidine (n = 8) or 0.9% normal saline (n = 7) at reperfusion and 12-hour intervals postoperatively until 48 hours. Additionally, sham mice (n = 3), which had aortic arch exposed with no occlusion, were included for comparison. Functional scoring was done at 6 hours following surgery and 12-hour intervals until 60 hours when spinal cords were removed and examined for neuronal viability and cytokine production. Additional analysis of microglia activation was done in 12 hours following surgery. Age- and sex-matched mice had spinal cord removed for microglial isolation culture. Cells were grown to confluence and stimulated with toll-like receptor-4 agonist LPS 100 ng/mL in presence of dexmedetomidine or vehicle control for 24 hours. Microglia and media were then removed for analysis of protein expression. Dexmedetomidine treatment at reperfusion significantly preserved neurologic function with mice in treatment group having a Basso Score of 6.3 in comparison to 2.3 in ischemic control group. Treatment was associated with a significant reduction in microglia activation and in interleukin-6 production. Microglial cells in isolation when stimulated with LPS had an increased production of proinflammatory cytokines and markers of activation. Treatment with dexmedetomidine significantly attenuated microglial activation and proinflammatory cytokine production in vitro with a greater than twofold reduction in tumor necrosis factor-α. Alpha 2a agonist, dexmedetomidine treatment at reperfusion preserved neurologic function and neuronal viability. Furthermore, dexmedetomidine treatment resulted in an attenuation of microglial activation and proinflammatory cytokine production both in vivo and in vitro following LPS stimulation. This finding lends insight into the mechanism of paralysis following thoracic aortic interventions and may guide future pharmacologic targets for attenuating spinal cord ischemia and reperfusion. Copyright © 2014 Society for Vascular Surgery. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

Different psychometric properties of the Emotional Reaction Instrument-English (ERI-E) between hospitalized African American and Caucasian children.

PubMed

Kim, Kye-Ha; Foster, Roxie L; Park, Jeong-Hwan

2017-04-01

To demonstrate the psychometric properties of the Emotional Reactions Instrument-English (ERI-E) between hospitalized African American and Caucasian children aged 7-12 years. A methodological study was conducted to examine validity and reliability of the ERI-E with 230 hospitalized African American and Caucasian children. Data were collected with sociodemographic and clinical forms, and using the ERI-E, and the Facial Affective Scale (FAS). Different factor structures were found between hospitalized African American and Caucasian children. In psychometric testing of the ERI-E with African American children, four items, alone, lonely, shy, and bored, were removed from the original 16-item ERI-E after exploratory factor analysis. Three factors, including Fear, Anxiety, and Distress, were identified explaining 60.71% of the total variance. Cronbach's alpha coefficient for the revised 12-item scale was 0.85. Six items, happy, sad, afraid, frightened, hurt, and uncomfortable, in the ERI-E were significantly correlated with the FAS (r = 0.20-0.59) as evidence of concurrent validity. In the sample with hospitalized Caucasian children, two items, bored and uncomfortable, were eliminated from the original ERI-E after exploratory factor analysis. Four factors including Fear, Anxiety, Distress, and Loneliness were extracted with 62.61% of total variance. Cronbach's alpha coefficient for the revised 14-item in the ERI-E was 0.84 for hospitalized Caucasian children. As evidence of concurrent validity, 10 items, happy, sad, afraid, frightened, bad, lonely, scary, bored, hurt, and uncomfortable, in the ERI-E were significantly correlated with the FAS (r = 0.20-0.69). Because children with different cultural backgrounds understand or use words differently, healthcare providers should assess the cultural norms of pediatric patients and ensure steps have been taken to ensure clear, effective communication with pediatric patients. In addition, healthcare providers should evaluate the meanings of faces in the FAS before using it in a clinical setting because faces have different cultural connotations. The explosive growth of ethnic minority children in the United States makes it paramount for healthcare providers and researchers to consider the measurement equivalence of any measure to better serve different racial and cultural groups. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Reliability and Validity of a Turkish version of the Prenatal Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale.

PubMed

Aydin, Ayse; Pasinlioglu, Turkan

2018-05-18

This study aims to conduct reliability and validity study of the Turkish version of the "Prenatal Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale", which determines pregnant women's perception of breastfeeding self-efficacy in the prenatal period. This methodological research was carried out between December 2014 and May 2016 in maternity clinics of the Erzurum Nene Hatun Maternity Hospital and Atatürk University Research Hospital. The study population consisted of pregnant women, admitted to the specified clinics for prenatal controls. The study was carried out with 326 pregnant women, who met the inclusion criteria and agreed to participate in the research without any sample selection. "Personal Information Form" and "Prenatal Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale - Turkish Form" were used for data collection. The data were collected by the face-to-face interview method, and analyzed by SPSS 18 software. In the validity-reliability analysis of the scale, language and content validity, explanatory factor analysis, Cronbach's Alpha coefficient, item-total score correlation, and testretest methods were used. Linguistic validity was verified by the translation-backtranslation of the Prenatal Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale, then the necessary corrections were made according to the recommendations of the expert opinions, to ensure the content validity. As a result of the explanatory factor analysis, performed to determine the construct validity of the scale, a single factor structure was found, having factor loadings in the appropriate range (0.30-0.76). In the internal consistency analysis of the scale, Cronbach's Alpha was 0.86, and the item-total score correlations were between 0.23 and 0.65, and no item was removed from the scale. In order to test the time-invariance of the scale, the test-retest correlation value was found to be 0.94. The relationship between the two applications were determined to be statistically significant (p < 0.001). Turkish version of the Prenatal Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale was evaluated in Turkish women and found to be a valid and reliable measurement instrument. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Efficiencies of multilayer infiltration systems for the removal of urban runoff pollutants.

PubMed

Hou, Lizhu; Liu, Fang; Feng, Chuanping; Wan, Li

2013-01-01

Current rates of urban development will result in water runoff becoming a major complication of urban water pollution. To address the worsening situation regarding water resource shortage and pollution, novel multilayer infiltration systems were designed and their effectiveness for removing pollutants in urban runoff tested experimentally. The multilayer infiltration systems effectively removed most pollutants, including organic matter (chemical oxygen demand (CODCr)), total nitrogen (TN), ammonia-nitrogen (NH4(+)-N) and total phosphorus (TP). CODCr, TN, NH4(+)-N, and TP were reduced by 68.67, 23.98, 82.66 and 92.11%, respectively. The main mechanism for nitrogen removal was biological nitrogen removal through nitrification and denitrification. Phosphorus in the urban runoff was removed mainly by fixation processes in the soil, such as adsorption and chemical precipitation. The results indicate that the proposed novel system has potential for removal of pollutants from urban runoff and subsequent reuse of the treated water.

Sublethal Total Body Irradiation Leads to Early Cerebellar Damage and Oxidative Stress

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-01-01

mice: protective effect of alpha - lipoic acid . Behav Brain Res 2007b; 177(1): 7-14. [8] Manda K, Ueno M, Anzai K. Melatonin mitigates oxidative...Memory impairment, oxidative damage and apoptosis induced by space radiation: ameliorative potential of alpha - lipoic acid . Behav Brain Res 2008b...1977; 171(1): 39-50. [6] Manda K, Ueno M, Moritake T, Anzai K. - Lipoic acid attenuates x-irradiation-induced oxidative stress in mice. Cell Biol

Evaluation of the Cytosorb™ Hemoadsorptive Column in a Pig Model of Severe Smoke and Burn Injury.

PubMed

Linden, Katharina; Scaravilli, Vittorio; Kreyer, Stefan F X; Belenkiy, Slava M; Stewart, Ian J; Chung, Kevin K; Cancio, Leopoldo C; Batchinsky, Andriy I

2015-11-01

Host inflammatory response to any form of tissue injury, including burn, trauma, or shock, has been well documented. After significant burns, cytokines can increase substantially within the first 24 h after injury and may contribute to subsequent organ failure. Hemoadsorption by cytokine-adsorbing columns may attenuate this maladaptive response, thereby improving outcomes. The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility, technical safety, and efficacy of cytokine and myoglobin removal by early use of a cytokine absorbing column (CytoSorb) in a porcine model of smoke inhalation and burn injury. Anesthetized female Yorkshire pigs (n = 15) were injured by wood bark smoke inhalation and a 40% total body surface area deep burn and observed for 72 h or death. The animals were randomized to hemoadsorption treatment (n = 9) or a sham group (n = 6) before injury. A 6-h hemoadsorption or sham session was performed on days one, two, and three. Serum cytokines (IL-1b, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, TNF-alpha) and myoglobin were measured systemically, locally in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and also in circulating blood before and after the adsorbing column to evaluate single pass clearance by the device. Hemoadsorption caused significant removal of IL-1b, IL-6, IL-10, and myoglobin across the device mainly during the first run, ranging from 22% for IL-6 to 29% for IL-1b and 41% removal rates for myoglobin after 15  min of treatment. Systemic cytokine or myoglobin serum concentrations did not change. In a porcine model of smoke and burn injury, hemoadsorption using the CytoSorb cartridge did not result in significant systemic or pulmonary reductions in the measured cytokines or myoglobin despite efficient transmembrane reductions. Further investigations are needed to optimize the efficiency of mediator clearance to affect both circulating levels and clinically relevant outcomes.

Dry-grind processing using amylase corn and superior yeast to reduce the exogenous enzyme requirements in bioethanol production.

PubMed

Kumar, Deepak; Singh, Vijay

2016-01-01

Conventional corn dry-grind ethanol production process requires exogenous alpha and glucoamylases enzymes to breakdown starch into glucose, which is fermented to ethanol by yeast. This study evaluates the potential use of new genetically engineered corn and yeast, which can eliminate or minimize the use of these external enzymes, improve the economics and process efficiencies, and simplify the process. An approach of in situ ethanol removal during fermentation was also investigated for its potential to improve the efficiency of high-solid fermentation, which can significantly reduce the downstream ethanol and co-product recovery cost. The fermentation of amylase corn (producing endogenous α-amylase) using conventional yeast and no addition of exogenous α-amylase resulted in ethanol concentration of 4.1 % higher compared to control treatment (conventional corn using exogenous α-amylase). Conventional corn processed with exogenous α-amylase and superior yeast (producing glucoamylase or GA) with no exogenous glucoamylase addition resulted in ethanol concentration similar to control treatment (conventional yeast with exogenous glucoamylase addition). Combination of amylase corn and superior yeast required only 25 % of recommended glucoamylase dose to complete fermentation and achieve ethanol concentration and yield similar to control treatment (conventional corn with exogenous α-amylase, conventional yeast with exogenous glucoamylase). Use of superior yeast with 50 % GA addition resulted in similar increases in yield for conventional or amylase corn of approximately 7 % compared to that of control treatment. Combination of amylase corn, superior yeast, and in situ ethanol removal resulted in a process that allowed complete fermentation of 40 % slurry solids with only 50 % of exogenous GA enzyme requirements and 64.6 % higher ethanol yield compared to that of conventional process. Use of amylase corn and superior yeast in the dry-grind processing industry can reduce the total external enzyme usage by more than 80 %, and combining their use with in situ removal of ethanol during fermentation allows efficient high-solid fermentation.

Enhancing creative cognition with a rapid right-parietal neurofeedback procedure.

PubMed

Agnoli, Sergio; Zanon, Marco; Mastria, Serena; Avenanti, Alessio; Corazza, Giovanni Emanuele

2018-02-14

The present article describes an innovative neurofeedback training (NFT) procedure aimed at increasing creative cognition through the enhancement of specific brain activities previously associated with divergent thinking. We designed and tested two NFT protocols based on training alpha and beta EEG oscillations selectively measured over the right parietal region. A total of 80 participants were involved, 40 in the alpha NFT protocol and 40 in the beta NFT protocol. The NFT loop was closed on a video stream that would advance only when oscillation power exceeded a normalized threshold. The total duration of the protocol was two hours in a single day, hence its classification as rapid. Changes in ideational fluency and originality, measured with a divergent thinking task, were compared between participants receiving real video feedback and participants receiving sham feedback. We controlled for individual differences in creative achievement level. Results showed that the protocols were effective at enhancing alpha and beta activities in the targeted area. Differences between the two protocols emerged in their effectiveness at promoting divergent thinking. While no significant changes in originality resulted from the rapid alpha NFT, increases in both originality and fluency emerged as a consequence of the rapid beta NFT. These results were particularly evident in participants starting with a low creative achievement level. Possible interpretations and future directions are proposed and discussed. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Microevolution in Perugia: isonymy 1890-1990.

PubMed

Rodríguez-Larralde, A; Formica, G; Scapoli, C; Beretta, M; Mamolini, E; Barrai, I

1993-01-01

The distribution of surnames in the population of the Comune of Perugia, as it existed in the memory banks of the Municipality Computer in autumn 1991, was studied by age and place of birth. Fisher's alpha and Karlin-McGregor's v were estimated in the total population, in persons born before 1901, and in persons born in the nine decades thereafter, ending with the period 1981-1991, for immigrants and for natives of Perugia, respectively. The wealth of surnames was significantly higher in immigrants than in natives of Perugia, as detected by alpha, v and by the log-log regression of the corresponding distributions. Among residents born in Perugia, Fisher's alpha shows a minimum value during 1921-1930, explained as a consequence of the First World War. The relationship between all possible combinations of cohorts born in the 10 different decades was studied through the Euclidean distance and through Lasker's coefficient of relationship, and a significant correlation between the former and time was revealed, both in immigrants and in natives of Perugia. When compared with the Province of Ferrara, Perugia was far richer in surnames, as measured by Fisher's alpha, for the total population and for each of the 10 decades analysed. Recent immigration, measured by Karlin-McGregor's v, was significantly higher in Perugia until the 1960s, equal in both Provinces during the 1970s, and higher in Ferrara during the 1980s.

[Reliability and validity of the PAQ-A questionnaire to assess physical activity in Spanish adolescents].

PubMed

Martínez-Gómez, David; Martínez-de-Haro, Vicente; Pozo, Tamara; Welk, Gregory J; Villagra, Ariel; Calle, Marisa E; Marcos, Ascensión; Veiga, Oscar L

2009-01-01

Questionnaires are feasible instruments to assess physical activity (PA) in large samples. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the reliability and validity of the PAQ-A questionnaire in Spanish adolescents using the measurement of PA by accelerometer as criterion. In a sample of 82 adolescents, aged 12 to 17 years, 1-week PAQ-A test-retest was administered. Reliability was analyzed by the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) and the internal consistency by the Cronbach's alpha Coefficient. Two hundred thirty-two adolescents, aged 13-17 years, completed the PAQ-A and wore the ActiGraph GT1M accelerometer during 7-days. The PAQ-A was compared against total PA and moderate to vigorous PA (MVPA) obtained by the accelerometer. Test-retest reliability showed ICC = 0.71 for the final score of PAQ-A. Internal consistency was alpha = 0.65 in the first self-report, alpha = 0.67 in the retest in 82 adolescents sample, and alpha = 0.74 in the 232 adolescents sample. The PAQ-A was moderately correlated with total PA (rho = 0.39) and MVPA (rho= 0.34) assessed by the accelerometer. The PAQ-A obtained significantly moderate correlations in boys but not in girls against the accelerometer. The PAQ-A questionnaire shows an adequate reliability and a reasonable validity for assessing PA in Spanish adolescents.

Defect annealing of alpha-particle irradiated n-GaAs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goodman, S. A.; Auret, F. D.; Myburg, G.

1994-09-01

The annealing behaviour of irradiation induced defects in n-type GaAs irradiated at 300 K with 5.4 MeV alpha-particles from an americium-241 (Am-241) radio nuclide have been investigated. The annealing kinetics are presented for the alpha-particle induced defects Eα1 Eα5 detected in Organo-Metallic Vapor Phase Epitaxially (OMVPE) grown n-GaAs doped with silicon to 1.2×1016 cm-3, these kinetics are compared to those obtained for similar defects (E1 E5) detected after electron irradiation. While defects Pα1 and Pα2 were detected after removal of the electron defects Eα4 and Eα5, respectively, a new defect labelled Pα0, located 0.152 eV below the conduction band, was introduced by annealing. The thermal behaviour and trap characteristics of these three defects (Pα0 Pα2) are presented. In an attempt to further characterise defects Pα0 and Pα1 a preiliminary study investigating the emission rate field dependence of these defects was conducted, it was observed that defect Pα0 exhibited a fairly strong field dependence while Pα1 exhibited a much weaker dependence.

[Quality of care indicators for benign prostatic hyperplasia. A qualitative study].

PubMed

Navarro-Pérez, Jorge; Peiró, Salvador; Brotons-Muntó, Francisco; López-Alcina, Emilio; Real-Romaguera, Arcadio

2014-05-01

To assess quality of care indicators for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and to evaluate their strengths and weaknesses for incorporation into health information systems. Structured expert meeting, using procedures adapted from the nominal group techniques and the Rand consensus method. Valencian School of Health Studies. Forty panellists (74% doctors, 70% from primary care settings) with experience in the management of BPH from 15 departments of the Valencia Health Agency. Three workshops were held simultaneously (examination and diagnosis, drug therapy, and appropriateness and results), and the 15 quality indicators selected by the coordination group were assessed. Eleven of the 15 indicators scored in the range of high relevance. The 5 best rated were: the use of alpha-blockers + 5-alpha reductase inhibitor from certain severity level, digital rectal examination in the initial assessment, follow-up with the International Prostate Symptoms Score (IPSS), the rate of urgent catheterization in Hospital Accident & Emergency Units, initial assessment with the IPSS and the use of alpha-blockers prior to catheter removal for acute retention of urine. Some of the assessed indicators can be useful for incorporation into health information systems. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier España, S.L. All rights reserved.

Dose-Fractionation Sensitivity of Prostate Cancer Deduced From Radiotherapy Outcomes of 5,969 Patients in Seven International Institutional Datasets: {alpha}/{beta} = 1.4 (0.9-2.2) Gy

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

Miralbell, Raymond, E-mail: Raymond.Miralbell@hcuge.ch; Institut Oncologic Teknon, Barcelona; Roberts, Stephen A.

2012-01-01

Purpose: There are reports of a high sensitivity of prostate cancer to radiotherapy dose fractionation, and this has prompted several trials of hypofractionation schedules. It remains unclear whether hypofractionation will provide a significant therapeutic benefit in the treatment of prostate cancer, and whether there are different fractionation sensitivities for different stages of disease. In order to address this, multiple primary datasets have been collected for analysis. Methods and Materials: Seven datasets were assembled from institutions worldwide. A total of 5969 patients were treated using external beams with or without androgen deprivation (AD). Standard fractionation (1.8-2.0 Gy per fraction) was usedmore » for 40% of the patients, and hypofractionation (2.5-6.7 Gy per fraction) for the remainder. The overall treatment time ranged from 1 to 8 weeks. Low-risk patients comprised 23% of the total, intermediate-risk 44%, and high-risk 33%. Direct analysis of the primary data for tumor control at 5 years was undertaken, using the Phoenix criterion of biochemical relapse-free survival, in order to calculate values in the linear-quadratic equation of k (natural log of the effective target cell number), {alpha} (dose-response slope using very low doses per fraction), and the ratio {alpha}/{beta} that characterizes dose-fractionation sensitivity. Results: There was no significant difference between the {alpha}/{beta} value for the three risk groups, and the value of {alpha}/{beta} for the pooled data was 1.4 (95% CI = 0.9-2.2) Gy. Androgen deprivation improved the bNED outcome index by about 5% for all risk groups, but did not affect the {alpha}/{beta} value. Conclusions: The overall {alpha}/{beta} value was consistently low, unaffected by AD deprivation, and lower than the appropriate values for late normal-tissue morbidity. Hence the fractionation sensitivity differential (tumor/normal tissue) favors the use of hypofractionated radiotherapy schedules for all risk groups, which is also very beneficial logistically in limited-resource settings.« less

Neuroimaging Study of Alpha and Beta EEG Biofeedback Effects on Neural Networks.

PubMed

Shtark, Mark B; Kozlova, Lyudmila I; Bezmaternykh, Dmitriy D; Mel'nikov, Mikhail Ye; Savelov, Andrey A; Sokhadze, Estate M

2018-06-01

Neural networks interaction was studied in healthy men (20-35 years old) who underwent 20 sessions of EEG biofeedback training outside the MRI scanner, with concurrent fMRI-EEG scans at the beginning, middle, and end of the course. The study recruited 35 subjects for EEG biofeedback, but only 18 of them were considered as "successful" in self-regulation of target EEG bands during the whole course of training. Results of fMRI analysis during EEG biofeedback are reported only for these "successful" trainees. The experimental group (N = 23 total, N = 13 "successful") upregulated the power of alpha rhythm, while the control group (N = 12 total, N = 5 "successful") beta rhythm, with the protocol instructions being as for alpha training in both. The acquisition of the stable skills of alpha self-regulation was followed by the weakening of the irrelevant links between the cerebellum and visuospatial network (VSN), as well as between the VSN, the right executive control network (RECN), and the cuneus. It was also found formation of a stable complex based on the interaction of the precuneus, the cuneus, the VSN, and the high level visuospatial network (HVN), along with the strengthening of the interaction of the anterior salience network (ASN) with the precuneus. In the control group, beta enhancement training was accompanied by weakening of interaction between the precuneus and the default mode network, and a decrease in connectivity between the cuneus and the primary visual network (PVN). The differences between the alpha training group and the control group increased successively during training. Alpha training was characterized by a less pronounced interaction of the network formed by the PVN and the HVN, as well as by an increased interaction of the cerebellum with the precuneus and the RECN. The study demonstrated the differences in the structure and interaction of neural networks involved into alpha and beta generating systems forming and functioning, which should be taken into account during planning neurofeedback interventions. Possibility of using fMRI-guided biofeedback organized according to the described neural networks interaction may advance more accurate targeting specific symptoms during neurotherapy.