[Comparing the anchorage effects of micro-implant and J hook on treating patients with maxillary protrusion].

PubMed

Wu, Xin; Liu, Guo-yuan; Jiang, Yong-lian

2015-10-01

To investigate the differences in anchorage effects between micro-implants and J hook in treating patients with Class II division 1 maxillary protrusion. Thirty-one cases of adult patients with Class II division 1 maxillary protrusion were treated. They were divided into 2 groups depending on their selection. The first group included 17 patients for micro-implant anchorage, who adopted micro-implant and sliding mechanism to close maxillary extraction space and depress the mandibular molar. The second group encompassed 14 cases for J hook, who adopted sliding mechanism, J hooks in high traction and Class II intermaxillary traction to close extraction space. X-ray lateral cephalometric radiographs were measured before and after treatment, and SPSS16.0 software package was employed to compare the differences in soft and hard tissue changes before and after treatment between 2 groups. There were statistically significant differences in SNB, ANB, MP-FH, U1-Y, U6-Y, L6-MP, NLA, and UL-Y between the 2 groups before and after treatment, while there was no significant difference in SNA, U1-SN, U1-X, and U6-X between the 2 groups. In treating patients with Class II division 1 maxillary protrusion, micro-implant has stronger anchorage effects than J hook, while at the same time depressing the mandibular molars, and making it more favorable to improve Class II faces.

[Inhibitory effects of silymarin on hepatic fibrosis induced by dimethylnitrosamine: experiment with rats].

PubMed

Zhao, Xin-yan; Wang, Bao-en; Wang, Tai-ling; Li, Xin-min

2006-09-26

To investigate the antifibrotic effects of silymarin on hepatic fibrosis. Sixty-one male Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups: control group (15 rats); DMN model group (23 rats), injected intraperitoneally with dimethylnitrosamine (DMN) 10 mg/kg twice per week for 8 weeks to induce hepatic fibrosis; and silymarin group (23 rats), injected intraperitoneally with DMN and given silymarin 50 mg/kg by gastric gavage daily for 8 weeks. Eight weeks late all rats were sacrificed. Blood samples were collected to measure the alanine transaminase (ALT), aspirate aminotransferase (AST), albumin, and total bilirubin (TBIL). The hydroxyproline (Hyp) content in the liver tissue was measured. The histopathological changes as well as the fibrosis stages and score were examined by microscopy. The levels of ALT, AST, and TBIL of the silymarin groups were 59 U/L +/- 19 U/L, 159 U/L +/- 39 U/L, and mean rank 24 respectively, all significantly lower than those of the DMN model group (128 U/L +/- 25 U/L, 246 U/L +/- 61 U/L, and mean rank 37 respectively, P < 0.01, P = 0.001, and P = 0.003). Compared with DMN rats, the level of Hyp of the silymarin was lower by 42.6%, the hepatic score of the silymarin was 6.2 +/- 2.4, significantly than that of the DMN model group (12.8 +/- 4.4, P = 0.001), and more cases in the silymarin group were at the lower stages. Silymarin markedly inhibits and reverse the progression of hepatic fibrosis induced by dimethylnitrosamine.

Intermediate coronary revascularization using the Deltastream blood pump: results from an experimental study.

PubMed

Litmathe, J; Hansen, E; Feindt, P; Kurt, M; Boeken, U; Gams, E

2009-01-01

Myocardial revascularization using a complete heart-lung machine may involve many problems, as do complete off-pump attempts. Thus, it was the aim of this study to evaluate the effects of intermediate on-pump/off-pump myocardial revascularization using the miniaturized Deltastream blood pump, on ischemia and hemolysis, in comparison with standard myocardial revascularization. In a group of 8 mini-pigs, combined on-pump/off-pump myocardial revascularization was performed using the Deltastream blood pump as beating-heart support for the on-pump part of the operation (group A). Seven other animals served as controls and underwent standard myocardial revascularization with the same device as integrated pump of a complete heart-lung machine (group B). Blood samples for blood gas metabolism, creatine kinase (CK), troponin I, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase (HBDH) were taken before and after the entire operation. Comparing the baseline values, the increase of CK was more pronounced in group B than in group A (176.4-/+41.2 to 279.7-/+29 U/L vs. 274-/+142.7 to 288.1-/+118.6 U/L, respectively; p=0.0006). Increase of troponin I was significantly higher in group B than in group A (1-/+0.3 to 2.9-/+1 ng/mL vs. 1.1-/+0.9 to 3-/+3.8 ng/mL, respectively; p=0.002). LDH increase was also more pronounced in group B (231.7-/+54.3 to 299.9-/+39.8 U/L vs. 274.9-/+59.7 to 263.8-/+57.9 U/L, respectively; p=0.01). HBDH values increased significantly in group B after the operation (group A: 215.9-/+34.7 to 200-/+39.2 U/L vs. group B: 195.4-/+41.7 to 274.9-/+51.6 U/L; p=0.02). Hemodynamic measures and LDH values under luxation (group A: 1.9-/+0.6 U/L; B: 3.5-/+1 U/L,p=0.001) were also superior in the study group. The current set-up might be superior to conventional extracorporeal circulation and thus be an alternative for high-risk candidates to avoid the adverse events of a complete heart-lung machine, when they are scheduled for complete myocardial revascularization.

D 6ℛ4 amplitudes in various dimensions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pioline, Boris

2015-04-01

Four-graviton couplings in the low energy effective action of type II string vacua compactified on tori are strongly constrained by supersymmetry and U-duality. While the ℛ4 and D 4ℛ4 couplings are known exactly in terms of Langlands-Eisenstein series of the U-duality group, the D 6ℛ4 couplings are not nearly as well understood. Exploiting the coincidence of the U-duality group in D = 6 with the T-duality group in D = 5, we propose an exact formula for the D 6ℛ4 couplings in type II string theory compactified on T 4, in terms of a genus-two modular integral plus a suitable Eisenstein series. The same modular integral computes the two-loop correction to D 6ℛ4 in 5 dimensions, but here provides the non-perturbative completion of the known perturbative terms in D = 6. This proposal hinges on a systematic re-analysis of the weak coupling and large radius of the D 6ℛ4 in all dimensions D ≥ 3, which fills in some gaps and resolves some inconsistencies in earlier studies.

Immunological monitoring after organ transplantation: potential role of soluble CD30 blood level measurement.

PubMed

Truong, Dinh Quang; Darwish, Ahmed A; Gras, Jérémie; Wieërs, Grégoire; Cornet, Anne; Robert, Annie; Mourad, Michel; Malaise, Jacques; de Ville de Goyet, Jean; Reding, Raymond; Latinne, Dominique

2007-06-01

Analysing the relevance of soluble CD30 (sCD30) in the bloodstream before and after transplantation may be important for the monitoring of transplant recipients. In this study, 27 patients (15 pediatric liver and 12 adult kidney graft recipients) were investigated. In the liver graft group, the patients who developed acute rejection during the first month (n=9) had a slightly higher sCD30 value on pre-transplantation baseline (day 0) and post-transplantation day 7, when compared to patients with normal graft function (n=6) (day 0: 102(1.6) U/ml versus 118(1.5) U/ml, p=0.52) and (day 7: 69(1.5) U/ml versus 83(1.6) U/ml, p=0.47). Increased serum sCD30 was shown to correlate with increased interleukin-10 circulating levels between day 0 and day 7 (r=0.53; p=0.04), whereas, no correlation could be evidenced between interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) and sCD30 (r=0.02; p=0.47). Similarly, in the kidney transplantation group, no significant difference was found in sCD30 levels at day 0 in both groups with graft rejection or normal graft function (n=6) (85(1.3) U/ml versus 77(1.6) U/ml, p=0.66), but sCD30 decreased significantly at day 7 post-transplantation from baseline value in the rejection group (n=6) (77(1.6) versus 35(1.4); p=0.02). We conclude that increased serum sCD30 was correlated with increased IL-10 (interleukin-10) circulating levels, but not with IFN-gamma levels in the post-transplantation period. Neither pre-transplantation sCD30 nor sCD30 at day 7 post-transplantation could be correlated with acute rejection in liver graft recipient. The monitoring of sCD30 might constitute a tool to assess the risk of acute rejection in renal transplant but did not appear as a valuable mean for early immunological monitoring in the small group of liver allograft recipients patients analysed in this study.

F4 , E6 and G2 exceptional gauge groups in the vacuum domain structure model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shahlaei, Amir; Rafibakhsh, Shahnoosh

2018-03-01

Using a vacuum domain structure model, we calculate trivial static potentials in various representations of F4 , E6, and G2 exceptional groups by means of the unit center element. Due to the absence of the nontrivial center elements, the potential of every representation is screened at far distances. However, the linear part is observed at intermediate quark separations and is investigated by the decomposition of the exceptional group to its maximal subgroups. Comparing the group factor of the supergroup with the corresponding one obtained from the nontrivial center elements of S U (3 ) subgroup shows that S U (3 ) is not the direct cause of temporary confinement in any of the exceptional groups. However, the trivial potential obtained from the group decomposition into the S U (3 ) subgroup is the same as the potential of the supergroup itself. In addition, any regular or singular decomposition into the S U (2 ) subgroup that produces the Cartan generator with the same elements as h1, in any exceptional group, leads to the linear intermediate potential of the exceptional gauge groups. The other S U (2 ) decompositions with the Cartan generator different from h1 are still able to describe the linear potential if the number of S U (2 ) nontrivial center elements that emerge in the decompositions is the same. As a result, it is the center vortices quantized in terms of nontrivial center elements of the S U (2 ) subgroup that give rise to the intermediate confinement in the static potentials.

Dollar Summary of Prime Contract Awards by Contractor, State or Country, and Place, FY 87. Part 3. Finalco Group, Incorporated-Kennedy Electric Company.

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-01-01

CO: y6)-t . I439Ct- 311 -9.I _sx3~ 9XXx ~ 3: t3 : 1911I wIl 41 l WLL wU1 .6)6WU. Ii li-I.J ... jAj .1.A.u4,J’jW O j jU. C. .J 1 .1-.1...4 -U . U to...511Wm L - 100x > .. (n OL4(AUC UI IA cc td )( I0- 4e cci5 eC 0 1- P j X3 I a . .I . -4. - 6i- -4 x 2 x . ).E x4 xx.4xx x 6LC L 0 (A I of- .. .. ~ ....43

Collagen degradation products and proinflammatory cytokines in systemic and localized scleroderma.

PubMed

Becvár, R; Hulejová, H; Braun, M; Stork, J

2007-01-01

The aim of this study was to assess the degradation of collagen type I and proinflammatory cytokines in systemic and localized scleroderma compared with psoriasis and healthy controls. Total 99 individuals were examined - 24 with SSc, 22 with LSc, 39 patients with PsV and 14 healthy controls. U-PD and U-DPD were measured using a sensitive isocratic HPLC method. Serum levels of IL-6 and soluble IL-2R were assayed using commercial ELISA kits. In the SSc group U-PD and U-DPD levels (nmol/mmol creatinine) were increased compared with controls (P = 0.001) and with PsV (P = 0.006). IL-6 levels were increased compared with controls (P = 0.004) and with PsV (P = 0.002). IL-2R concentrations were insignificantly increased in comparison with controls and were lower than in PsV, but the difference was not significant. In the LSc group excretion of U-PD and U-DPD did not differ from controls, but was insignificantly decreased compared with PsV. IL-6 levels were increased compared with controls (P = 0.001) and also with PsV (P = 0.03). IL-2R concentrations were significantly increased in comparison with controls only (P = 0.03). In patients with SSc our data have shown the most intensive collagen degradation and simultaneously an active inflammation, as documented by IL-6, which reflects the pathological processes in the skin and visceral organs compared with PsV patients and healthy individuals. In the LSc group collagen degradation was similar to that in control groups, but a certain inflammatory activity was observed.

[The effect of urokinase on hepatic fibrogenesis in rats].

PubMed

Wu, Xi-run; Wang, Qi; Wang, Ling; Shi, Shui-sheng; Guo, Wen-dong

2009-12-01

To investigate the effect of urokinase on hepatic fibrogenesis in rats. Hepatic fibrosis was induced in rats by complex pathogenic factors including subcutaneous injections of carbon tetrachloride, alcohol and cholesterol feeding. Animals were randomly divided into 3 groups: normal control group, hepatic fibrosis group (complex pathogenic factors for 6 weeks), UK prevention group (complex pathogenic factors+UK for 6 weeks). The animals were sacrificed at the end of week 6. The expression of alpha-SMA, uPA, PAI-1, TGFb1, TIMP-1, collagen type I and type III proteins in hepatic fibrosis tissue was detected by immunohistochemistry, the expression of PAI-1 and TGFb1 mRNA in the hepatic fibrosis tissue was quantified by real time RT-PCR. The serum levels of hyaluronicacid (HA), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), bilirubin (TBil) and the content of liver hydroxyproline (Hyp) were detected using ELISA kits. The serum ALT, AST, TBil, HA and the content of liver Hyp were (46.66+/-6.30) U/L, (126.26+/-31.65) U/L, (31.11+/-4.20) micromol/L, (109.70+/-18.81) microg/L and (0.98+/-0.09) mg/(g liver), respectively, in UK prevention group, which were significantly lower than those [(101.57+/-11.97) U/L, (205.89+/-56.26) U/L, (67.75+/-2.75) micromol/L, (184.43+/-32.36) microg/L and (1.65+/-0.16) mg/(g liver), respectively] in hepatic fibrosis group (q = 3.3801-20.0061, P < 0.01). The levels of a-SMA, collagen type I, type III, TIMP-1, PAI-1, TGFb1 proteins were (299.27+/-37.36), (210.05+/-27.17), (192.94+/-24.48), (213.70+/-32.21), (204.25+/-17.92), (205.97+/-23.81), respectively, in UK prevention group, which were significantly lower than those [(418.83+/-30.21), (323.77+/-21.53), (302.37+/-31.43), (376.63+/-25.19), (313.53+/-26.67) and (327.42+/-36.75), respectively] in hepatic fibrosis group. The level of uPA protein was increased, and the expression of PAI-1, TGFb1 mRNA in hepatic fibrosis tissue was decreased in UK prevention group. In the early stage of hepatic fibrogenesis, urokinase can attenuate the progression of rat hepatic fibrosis via upregulation of uPA, downregulation of TGFb1, and inhibition of HSC activation.

A randomized prospective comparison of the needleless mini-sling "hammock" and "U-shape" configurations for management of stress urinary incontinence: 18 month follow-up results.

PubMed

Dogan, Ozan; Basbug, Alper; Kaya, Aski Ellibes; Pulatoglu, Cigdem; Yassa, Murat

2018-06-01

To compare the efficacy of needleless mini-sling placed either retropubic (U-shape) or trans-obturator (hammock-shape) to treat stress urinary incontinence. One hundred and twenty six women were randomized in a 2:1 ratio to receive hammock-shaped or U-shaped of Contasure-NDL. All surgical procedures were performed by one senior surgeon experienced in anti-incontinence surgery with mesh. Cough-stress test was considered for objective outcome. Subjective outcomes consisted of International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Short Form (ICIQ-SF), Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI-I) and three-item Likert scale to measure satisfaction. Assessments were performed preoperatively and at postoperative 6th, 12th and 18th month. The objective cure rates at postoperative 6th and 12th month were significantly lower in U-shape group compared to hammock-shape group (85.4 vs. 96.4%; p = 0.034) and was comparable with hammock-shape group at 18 th month postoperative (90.2 vs. 96.4%, respectively; p = 0.216). The subjective cure rates at postoperative 6th, 12th and 18th month were similar between groups (90.2/90.2/100% vs. 96.4/96.4/96.4%, respectively; p > 0.05). Median of total ICIQ-SF scores was significantly lower in hammock-shaped group (1.62 ± 2.92) compared to U-shape (3.80 ± 2.64) at 18th month (p < 0.001). The rate of patients reported as very satisfied or satisfied to the Likert scale was 90.2% in U-shape group and 96.4% in hammock group. Patients' responses to PGI-I were majorly distributed to "much better" and "very much better" with a mean score of 1.93 ± 2 in U-shape and 1.33 ± 1 in hammock group at 18th month of follow-up (p < 0.001). U-shape placement of needleless single-incision mini-sling mimicking the retropubic route did not satisfy in achieving the patient's goal when compared to hammock-shape placement.

Effect of Sahaja yoga practice on stress management in patients of epilepsy.

PubMed

Panjwani, U; Gupta, H L; Singh, S H; Selvamurthy, W; Rai, U C

1995-04-01

An attempt was made to evaluate the effect of Sahaja yoga meditation in stress management in patients of epilepsy. The study was carried out on 32 patients of epilepsy who were rendomly divided into 3 groups: group I subjects practised Sahaja yoga meditation for 6 months, group II subjects practised postural exercises mimicking Sahaja yoga and group III served as the epileptic control group. Galvanic skin resistance (GSR), blood lactate and urinary vinyl mandelic acid (U-VMA) were recorded at 0, 3 and 6 months. There were significant changes at 3 & 6 months as compared to 0 month values in GSR, blood lactate and U-VMA levels in group I subjects, but not in group II and group III subjects. The results indicate that reduction in stress following Sahaja yoga practice may be responsible for clinical improvement which had been earlier reported in patients who practised Sahaja yoga.

Research on the influence of bilateral oophorectomy on the BMD, body components and sex hormone of women during the perimenopause.

PubMed

Wang, HaiLi; Wang, Chuchu; Sun, Lei; Zhou, Shiyuan; Wang, Fengyu

2017-07-01

To investigate the effect of bilateral oophorectomy on bone mineral density, body composition and sex hormone of peri-menopause women. 33 cases of peri-menopause women patients performed bilateral oophorectomy were chosen from xxx gynaecology and obstetrics department of xxx hospital from January 1st,2014 to Dec31th, 2014. And the 33 cases were taken as ovariectomy group. 35 women who were the naturally postmenopausal after menopause collected in clinic and in the same period with the patients of ovariectomy group were taken in control group. American GE-Lunar-Prodigy dual energy X-ray absorptiometry and chemiluminescence method were employed to detect the bone mineral density, fat content, muscle content and sex hormone of the patients in both groups at the 6th and 12th month after menostasis. There was no statistical significance on the comparative difference of bone mineral density, fat content and muscle content at the 6th and 12th month after menostasis between both groups, P>0.05. At the 6th month after menostasis, the estradiol (E2) level in ovariectomy group was significantly lower than that of control group [(14.79±22.17)U/L vs (32.74±31.02U/L)], P<0.05; at the 12th month after menostasis, it had the statistical significance for the comparative difference between the level of E2 and and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in ovariectomy group and that in control group, E2: (8.09±4.38)U/L vs (25.92±3.53)U/L; FSH: (64.88±18.39)U/L vs (40.69±31.63)U/L], P<0.05. the change of E2 and FSH were the main symptom of peri-menopausal women within 12 months after bilateral oophorectomy, the decrease of E2 level had no effect on bone mineral density, fat content and muscle content.

[Magnesium isoglycyrrhizinate prevention of chemotherapy-induced liver damage during initial treatment of patients with gastrointestinal tumors].

PubMed

Yan, Yulan; Mo, Yongsen; Zhang, Dongmei

2015-03-01

To investigate the preventive effect of magnesium isoglycyrrhizinate against acute drug-induced liver damage from initial chemotherapy treatment in patients with gastrointestinal cancer. A total of 216 cases with early stage gastric cancer and indications for systemic chemotherapy that had been diagnosed with gastrointestinal malignant tumors by pathology in our hospital were enrolled for study during the period of January 2011 to June 2013.Using a prospective randomized controlled study design,differences were assessed between groups treated with glycyrrhizic acid magnesium (experimental group; n=114) or glutathione (control group; n=102) and the FOLFOX regimen (n=104) or the XELOX regimen (n=112).Patients in the FOLFOX group received intravenous infusion of L-OHP (85 mg/m²) at day 1,followed by a bolus injection of 5-FU (400 mg/m²) at days 1-2 and continuous intravenous infusion of 5-FU (600 mg/m²) for 22 h at days 1-2,with one cycle comprising 2 weeks. Patients in the XELOX group received intravenous infusion of L-OHP (130 mg/m²) at day 1, followed by capecitabine (1 000 mg/m²) oral twice a day at days 1-14,with one cycle comprising 3 weeks.In the first cycle of chemotherapy,serum was extracted from the patients at 1 day before chemotherapy and 1 week after chemotherapy.An automated biochemistry analyzer was used to measure alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), total bilirubin (TBil) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). Differences between groups were statistically analyzed by the t-test and x² test. Among the total 216 cases treated with chemotherapy,40 showed hepatic biochemical abnormalities (12 cases in the experimental group, 28 cases in the control group), and the effect of prevention was significantly different between the two groups (10.53% vs. 27.25%; x² =10.219, P less than 0.005).The acute and subacute hepatic toxicity reaction degrees for the experimental and the control groups were: 0:94.78% vs. 88.2%; 1:5.3% vs. 11.8% (x² =6.99, P < 0.01). One week after chemotherapy, the liver biochemical indexes in the experimental group (ALT:35.93 ± 8.33 U/L; AST:24.84 ±2.91 U/L; TBil:13.29 ± 5.89 mumol/L; ALP:125.1 ± 53.61 U/L) were statically different from those in the control group (all P < 0.05). The liver biochemical indexes before and after chemotherapy were also significantly different between the experimental group (ALT:13.18t3.23 U/L; AST:5.39 ± 2.57 U/L; TBil:2.79 ± 0.23 mumol/L; ALP:52.08 ± 4.83 U/L) and the control group (all P < 0.05).One week after chemotherapy in the experimental group, the groups treated with the FOLFOX regimen or the XELOX regimen showed no statistical differences in the liver biochemical indexes.One week after chemotherapy in the control group, though, the groups treated with the FOLFOX regimen showed significantly lower AST (26.24 ± 3.50 U/L vs. 29.80 ± 6.57 U/L, t=-2.431, P < 0.05),but the residual liver biochemical indexes were not significantly different.In the experimental group, the FOLFOX group showed significantly lower ALP (53.44 ± 2.47 U/L vs. 56.58 ± 6.70 U/L, t =-2.201, P < 0.05), AST (6.48 ± 3.15U/L vs. 9.88 ± 4.57 U/L, t =-5.223, P < 0.05), but the residual liver biochemical index was not significantly different. Magnesium isoglycyrrhizinate is an effective drug for the prevention of drug-induced liver damage after initial chemotherapy in patients with early stage gastrointestinal cancer.

The effects of the pendulum distalising appliance and cervical headgear on the dentofacial structures.

PubMed

Toy, Ebubekir; Enacar, Ayhan

2011-05-01

Headgears are effective in distalising maxillary molars, but success depends on patient compliance and tolerance. Intra-oral distalising appliances are simple to construct and use and may be a better alternative for patients who are non-compliant or cannot tolerate headgear. To compare the Pendulum (PEN) appliance and cervical headgear (CHG) on distal movement of maxillary first molars in patients requiring maxillary molar distalisation. Thirty patients were randomly divided into two groups. Both groups had comparable occlusal and cephalometric characteristics before treatment. Fifteen patients (9 girls, 6 boys) with a mean age of 1 1.45 +/- 1.54 years (Range: 8.58-13.50 years) were treated with Pendulum appliances and 15 patients (10 girls, 5 boys) with a mean age of 11.72 + 1.24 years (Range: 9.58-13.33 years) were treated with a Ricketts-type CHG. A pilot study of four patients estimated that the time required to distalise the maxillary molars with the Pendulum appliance was five months. Therefore, the end of treatment records for the CHG group were taken after 4.96 +/- 0.35 months. Lateral and postero-anterior cephalometric radiographs were taken of both groups at the start (T1) and end of distalisation/treatment (T2). Changes in cephalometric measurements in the two groups were compared with Wilcoxon and Mann-Whitney U tests. Measurements indicated that U6-ANS distance, overjet and U1-APo distance increased, U6-PP angle and U6-PTV distance reduced, and the molar relationship improved more in the PEN group compared with the CHG group. Statistically, significant right molar - left molar differences were found between the two groups. Distalisation produced significant side effects, resulting in distal tipping of the first molars and an increase in overjet, whereas the CHG reduced the overjet. The Pendulum appliance was more effective than the CHG in distalising the maxillary first molars.

[Protective effects of sulforaphane on the oxidative damage of kidney mitochondria complex in obese rats induced by high-fat diet].

PubMed

Xue, Hongfeng; Li, Yajie; Liang, Bing; Wang, Shuran

2014-11-01

To realize the oxidative damage of kidney mitochondrial complex in obese rats induced by high-fat diet and investigate the protective effects of sulforaphane against the damage. Eighty-eight adult male SD rats were used, after 1 week adaptability feeding, 8 rats were selected as control group and given low-fat diet. The other 80 rats were given high-fat diet. After 2 weeks, the 32 diet-induced obesity models were choosen whose weight gain was higher than 40%. The 32 rats were randomly divided into 4 groups, i.e. high fat group, high fat+sulforaphane low dose group, high fat+sulforaphane middle dose group and high fat+sulforaphane high dose group. The rats in the sulforaphane low, middle and high dose groups were orally administered with sulforaphane 5, 10 and 20 mg/kg, all the 4 groups were kept feeding high-fat diet for 5 weeks. All rats were sacrificed and their kidneys were removed to assay the index of oxidative damages. The content of ROS (0.26 ± 0.04) and MDA((0.87 ± 0.05) U/mg) in the hight-fat group were significantly higher than those in the control group((0.20 ± 0.02),(0.57 ± 0.08) U/mg)(t values were -3.02 and -4.72, P < 0.05). The activity of T-AOC((0.43 ± 0.04) U/mg) and MMP (12.09 ± 1.56) were lower than the control group ((0.48 ± 0.04 U/mg, (16.08 ± 3.12) )(t values were 2.06 and 2.28, P < 0.05). Gavage intervention with sulforaphane, the MDA amount ((0.67 ± 0.05), (0.55 ± 0.05), (0.56 ± 0.07) U/mg) in the sulforaphane low, middle and high dose groups were lower than the hight-fat group ((0.87 ± 0.05) U/mg (t values were 3.65, 5.71 and 5.60. P < 0.05). The activity of T-AOC ((0.49 ± 0.05), (0.55 ± 0.05), (0.54 ± 0.04) U/mg), T-SOD ((61.07 ± 2.79), (55.95 ± 2.39), (60.26 ± 6.02) U/mg) and the level of MMP ((17.17 ± 2.52), (18.24 ± 2.54), (18.21 ± 3.65)) were higher than in the high-fat group ((0.43 ± 0.04) U/mg,(47.22 ± 2.43) U/mg,(12.09 ± 1.56)) (tT-AOC values were -2.36, -4.83 and -4.30; tT-SOD values were -6.37, -4.71 and -5.99; tMMP values were -2.90, -3.52 and -3.50, P < 0.05). The activity of GSH-Px in the sulforaphane low and middle dose groups ((69.12 ± 8.63), (64.43 ± 6.58) U/mg) were higher than those in the high-fat group((53.03 ± 5.70) U/mg)(t values were -3.82 and -2.71, P < 0.05). But there were no significant difference between the high dose group ((60.02 ± 7.05) U/mg) and the high-fat group (t = -1.66, P > 0.05). High-fat diet can induce the mitochondrial oxidative dysfunction in kidney, and sulforaphane shows protective effect on the kidney mitochondrial complex from oxidative damage in obese rats induced by high-fat diet.

[Saponin 6 of Anemone Taipaiensis inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis of U87 MG cells].

PubMed

Ji, Chenchen; Cheng, Guang; Tang, Haifeng; Zhang, Yun; Hu, Yiyang; Zheng, Minhua; Fei, Zhou

2015-04-01

To investigate the effect of saponin 6 of Anemone Taipaiensis on the proliferation of human U87 MG glioma cells and the possible mechanism. U87 MG cells were treated with different concentrations of saponin 6 (0.0, 1.6, 3.2, 6.4, 12.8 μg/mL) for 24 hours or 48 hours. Cell viability was measured by MTT assay; the apoptosis rate was detected by flow cytometry combined with annexin V-FITC /PI staining; Western blotting was applied to determine the protein level of activated caspase-3. Compared with control groups, saponin 6 significantly inhibited U87 MG cell proliferation in a time- and dose-depended manner. Apoptosis rate of U87 MG cells and the expression of activated caspase-3 were raised with the increasing concentration of saponin 6. Saponin 6 of Anemone Taipaiensis could depress cell proliferation in a dose-depended manner, increase the expression of activated caspase-3 and promote apoptosis in U87 MG cells.

Neurostimulation in ultrasound-guided infraclavicular block: a prospective randomized trial.

PubMed

Dingemans, Emmanuel; Williams, Stephan R; Arcand, Geneviève; Chouinard, Philippe; Harris, Patrick; Ruel, Monique; Girard, François

2007-05-01

Ultrasound guidance (USG) for infraclavicular blocks provides real time visualization of the advancing needle and local anesthetic distribution. Whether visualization of local anesthetic spread can supplant neurostimulation as the end point for local anesthetic injection during USG block has never been formally evaluated. Therefore, for this prospective randomized study, we recruited 72 patients scheduled for hand or forearm surgery and compared the speed of execution and quality of USG infraclavicular block with either USG alone (Group U) or USG combined with neurostimulation (Group S). In Group U, local anesthetic was deposited in a U-shaped distribution posterior and to each side of the axillary artery using as few injections as possible (1, 2, and 3 injections in 29, 6, and 3 patients, respectively). In Group S, a single injection was made after obtaining a distal motor response with a stimulating current between 0.3 and 0.6 mA. The anesthetic solution consisted of 0.5 mL/kg of lidocaine 1.5%, bupivacaine 0.125%, and epinephrine 1:200 000 (final concentrations). Procedure times were significantly shorter in Group U compared with Group S (3.1 +/- 1.6 min and 5.2 +/- 4.7 min, respectively; P = 0.006). In Group S, anesthetic spread was mainly anterior to the axillary artery in 37% of patients and mainly posterior in 63% of patients. Thirty minutes after the injection, 86% of patients in Group U had complete sensory block in the musculocutaneous, median, radial, and ulnar nerve territories compared with 57% in Group S (P = 0.007). Patients blocked in Group U with a single injection had the same rate of complete block (86%) as those blocked with more than one injection (86%). Block supplementation rates were 8% in Group U versus 26% in Group S (P = 0.049). Block failure occurred in one patient in Group S because of an inability to obtain a distal stimulation after 20 min. We conclude that USG infraclavicular block is more rapidly performed and yields a higher success rate when visualization of local anesthetic spread is used as the end point for injection. Posterolateral spread of local anesthetic around the axillary artery predicts successful block, circumventing the need for direct nerve visualization.

Interleukin-6 -174G/C gene polymorphism affects muscle damage response to acute eccentric resistance exercise in elderly obese women.

PubMed

Funghetto, Silvana Schwerz; Prestes, Jonato; Silva, Alessandro de Oliveira; Farias, Darlan L; Teixeira, Tatiane G; Vieira, Denis Cesar Leite; Souza, Vinícius C; Sousa, Nuno M F; Navalta, James W; Melo, Gislane F; Karnikowski, Margô Gomes de Oliveira

2013-11-01

The IL-6 gene polymorphism has been associated with disease prevalence and different physiological responses to exercise. Eccentric resistance exercise (ERE) is considered a nonpharmacological tool to prevent the chronic degenerative profile associated with aging and obesity. Consequently, the aim of the present study was to investigate the influence of IL-6 -174G/C polymorphism on acute interleukin-6 (IL-6) and creatine kinase (CK) temporal response to ERE in elderly obese women. Ninety women completed seven sets of ten repetitions (eccentric only) of an acute ERE session at 110% of the ten repetitions maximum (10RM). IL-6 genotypes displayed no difference at baseline. ERE induced changes in CK concentration over time occurred only in the GG group, F(2.619, 136.173)=5.199, p=0.003, with CK activity increased from 106.8±6.9 U/l pre-intervention to 122.7±11.2 U/l at 24 h and 131.9±14.4 U/l at 48 h post-exercise. IL-6 concentration in the GG group was lower than the CC/CG group only at 0 h post-exercise (3.78±0.58 pg/ml versus 6.51±1.91 pg/ml, p=0.030). Only the GG genotype group had higher CK activity 24-48 h following ERE and greater CK integral values, while IL-6 activity over 48 h was higher in the CC/CG genotype group. In conclusion, IL-6 genotype affects CK and IL-6 in response to ERE. It is of interest that the ERE protocol induced an elevation in CK, indicating possible muscle damage without exacerbating IL-6 and CK for the GG genotype. © 2013.

Age-related differences in repeated-sprint ability in highly trained youth football players.

PubMed

Mujika, Inigo; Spencer, Matt; Santisteban, Juanma; Goiriena, Juan Jose; Bishop, David

2009-12-01

In this study, we investigated the age-related differences in repeated-sprint ability and blood lactate responses in 134 youth football players. Players from the development programme of a professional club were grouped according to their respective under-age team (U-11 to U-18). Following familiarization, the participants performed a repeated-sprint ability test [6 x 30-m sprints 30 s apart, with active recovery (2.0-2.2 m . s(-1)) between sprints]. The test variables were total time, percent sprint decrement, and post-test peak lactate concentration. Total time improved from the U-11 to U-15 age groups (range 33.15 +/- 1.84 vs. 27.25 +/- 0.82 s), whereas no further significant improvements were evident from U-15 to U-18. No significant differences in percent sprint decrement were reported among groups (range 4.0 +/- 1.0% to 5.5 +/- 2.1%). Post-test peak lactate increased from one age group to the next (range 7.3 +/- 1.8 to 12.6 +/- 1.6 mmol . l(-1)), but remained constant when adjusted for age-related difference in body mass. Peak lactate concentration was moderately correlated with sprint time (r = 0.70, P > 0.001). Our results suggest that performance in repeated-sprint ability improves during maturation of highly trained youth football players, although a plateau occurs from 15 years of age. In contrast to expectations based on previous suggestions, percent sprint decrement during repeated sprints did not deteriorate with age.

Recombinant human erythropoietin therapy in low-birthweight preterm infants: a prospective controlled study.

PubMed

Arif, Bahar; Ferhan, Karademir

2005-02-01

This study aimed to detect the effectiveness of recombinant human erythropoietin therapy in preventing premature anemia in low-birthweight preterm infants. A total of 292 premature infants who were born earlier than 33 gestational weeks and smaller than 1500 g birthweight were enrolled into the study. In addition to their conventional supportive therapy (medications), recombinant human erythropoietin 200 U/kg twice a week, subcutaneously, was given to randomly selected 142 premature infants for 6 weeks. The blood count variables and need for transfusions were compared with the remaining 150 premature infants during 6 months follow up. Serum erythropoietin levels were 11.3 +/- 6.1 mU/mL and 38.3 +/- 19.1 mU/mL in the erythropoietin group before and at the fourth week of the study, respectively (P < 0.001). Reticulocyte counts of the group treated with erythropoietin were 146 x 10(6) +/- 28 x 10(6)/mL and 122 x 10(6) +/- 27 x 10(6)/mL at the fourth and seventh week of the study, respectively, and these values were significantly higher when compared with the control group (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001). At the same period, hematocrit values were also found to be higher in the treatment group than the control group (P < 0.001). Serum ferritin levels were lower in the treatment group compared with the control group at the fourth week of the study. No side-effects related to erythropoietin usage were encountered. The need for packed cell transfusions were 47% in the group treated with erythropoietin and 62.6% in the control group. A statistically significant difference was found for transfusion needs between the control and treatment groups (P < 0.001). Recombinant erythropoietin is effective therapy for maintaining stable hematocrit levels in low-birthweight preterm infants and prevents the need for blood transfusions.

[Comparison of two shaping methods for double-lumen endotracheal tube intubation by Shikani optical stylet laryngoscope].

PubMed

Xu, T; Li, M; Xu, M; Guo, X Y

2016-12-18

To compare the efficacy and safety of two different shaping methods for double-lumen endotracheal tube (DLT).DLT was shaped with the rod of a Shikani optical stylet (SOS) with the tracheal orifice aligned with the convex aspect of the distal curvature or the concave aspect of the distal curvature. Patients scheduled for elective thoracic surgery and required intubation with a left-sided DLT were enrolled in this study. They were randomized into two groups. They were intubated with a DLT, which was shaped with the rod of a SOS with its tracheal orifice aligned with the convex aspect of the distal curvature (group T) or the concave aspect of the distal curvature (group U). Time for SOS manipulation, intubation attempts, intubation resistance score, malposition of bronchial intubation, time for fiberoptic bronchoscope (FOB) identification of bronchial placement, total intubation time and oral mucosal or dental injury were recorded. Hoarseness and throat sore of the patients were evaluated 1 hour and 24 hours after surgery. A total of 136 patients completed the study, with 68 in each group. Time for SOS manipulation was significantly shorter in group U [(35.1±6.1) s vs. 39.6±11.8) s, P=0.007]. First attempt success rate did not differ between the groups (92.6% vs.88.2%, P=0.561). Intubation resistance score was significantly lower in group U. Group T had fewer patients who suffered malposition of bronchial intubation than group U (4 vs.13, P=0.020) and cost less time for FOB identification of bronchial placement [(44.1±20.9) s vs.(53.6±29.2) s, P=0.032]. Total intubation time and the incidence of oral mucosal or dental injury did not differ between the groups. The severity and incidence of hoarseness were lower in group U than in group T 1 hour after surgery. The severity and incidence of sore throat were lower in group U than in group T 1 hour and 24 hours postoperatively. When lacing a left-sided DLT using a SOS, shaping the DLT with the tracheal orifice aligned with the concave aspect of the distal curvature saves SOS manipulation time, decreases the severity and incidence of postoperative hoarseness and sore throat. However, this modified shaping method increases the incidence of malposition of bronchial intubation and time for FOB identification of bronchial placement.

Safety and efficacy of abobotulinumtoxinA for hemiparesis in adults with upper limb spasticity after stroke or traumatic brain injury: a double-blind randomised controlled trial.

PubMed

Gracies, Jean-Michel; Brashear, Allison; Jech, Robert; McAllister, Peter; Banach, Marta; Valkovic, Peter; Walker, Heather; Marciniak, Christina; Deltombe, Thierry; Skoromets, Alexander; Khatkova, Svetlana; Edgley, Steven; Gul, Fatma; Catus, France; De Fer, Beatrice Bois; Vilain, Claire; Picaut, Philippe

2015-10-01

Resistance from antagonistic muscle groups might be a crucial factor reducing function in chronic hemiparesis. The resistance due to spastic co-contraction might be reduced by botulinum toxin injections. We assessed the effects of abobotulinumtoxinA injection in the upper limb muscles on muscle tone, spasticity, active movement, and function. In this randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blind study, we enrolled adults (aged 18-80 years) at least 6 months after stroke or brain trauma from 34 neurology or rehabilitation clinics in Europe and the USA. Eligible participants were randomly allocated in a 1:1:1 ratio with a computer-generated list to receive a single injection session of abobotulinumtoxinA 500 U or 1000 U or placebo into the most hypertonic muscle group among the elbow, wrist, or finger flexors (primary target muscle group [PTMG]), and into at least two additional muscle groups from the elbow, wrist, or finger flexors or shoulder extensors. Patients and investigators were masked to treatment allocation. The primary endpoint was the change in muscle tone (Modified Ashworth Scale [MAS]) in the PTMG from baseline to 4 weeks. Secondary endpoints were Physician Global Assessment (PGA) at week 4 and change from baseline to 4 weeks in the perceived function (Disability Assessment Scale [DAS]) in the principal target of treatment, selected by the patient together with physician from four functional domains (dressing, hygiene, limb position, and pain). Analysis was by intention to treat. This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01313299. 243 patients were randomly allocated to placebo (n=81), abobotulinumtoxinA 500 U (n=81), or abobotulinumtoxinA 1000 U (n=81). Mean change in MAS score from baseline at week 4 in the PTMG was -0·3 (SD 0·6) in the placebo group (n=79), -1·2 (1·0) in the abobotulinumtoxinA 500 U group (n=80; difference -0·9, 95% CI -1·2 to -0·6; p<0·0001 vs placebo), and -1·4 (1·1) in the abobotulinumtoxinA 1000 U group (n=79; -1·1, -1·4 to -0·8; p<0·0001 vs placebo). Mean PGA score at week 4 was 0·6 (SD 1·0) in the placebo group (n=78), 1·4 (1·1) in the abobotulinumtoxinA 500 U group (n=80; p=0·0003 vs placebo), and 1·8 (1·1) in the abobotulinumtoxinA 1000 U group (n=78; p<0·0001 vs placebo). Mean change from baseline at week 4 in DAS score for the principal target of treatment was -0·5 (0·7) in the placebo group (n=79), -0·7 (0·8) in the abobotulinumtoxinA 500 U group (n=80; p=0·2560 vs placebo), and -0·7 (0·7) in the abobotulinumtoxinA 1000 U group (n=78; p=0·0772 vs placebo). Three serious adverse events occurred in each group and none were treatment related; two resulted in death (from pulmonary oedema in the placebo group and a pre-existing unspecified cardiovascular disorder in the abobotulinumtoxinA 500 U group). Adverse events that were thought to be treatment related occurred in two (2%), six (7%), and seven (9%) patients in the placebo, abobotulinumtoxinA 500 U, and abobotulinumtoxinA 1000 U groups, respectively. The most common treatment-related adverse event was mild muscle weakness. All adverse events were mild or moderate. AbobotulinumtoxinA at doses of 500 U or 1000 U injected into upper limb muscles provided tone reduction and clinical benefit in hemiparesis. Future research into the treatment of spastic paresis with botulinum toxin should use active movement and function as primary outcome measures. Ipsen. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

[Comparison between J-hook and micro-implant anchorage in the treatment of patients with bimaxillary protrusion].

PubMed

Chen, Wen-Jing; Li, Qing-Yi; Gong, Ai-Xiu; Hu, Fang; Gu, Yong-Jia

2008-02-01

To compare the difference between J-hook and micro-implant anchorage in the treatment of patient with bimaxillary protrusion. Thirty patients with bimaxillary protrusion were divided into two groups (J-hook and micro-implant groups) and treated with MBT appliance. Four first premolars were extracted in all patients. Cephalometric analyses were carried out before and after treatment. In J-hook group and micro-implant group,computerized cephalometric analysis revealed that before treatment U6C-PP was (12.4 +/- 0.2) mm and (12.5 +/- 0.1) mm, respectively,and after treatment U6C-PP was (12.6 +/- 0.1) mm and (12.8 +/- 0.1) mm,respectively. The difference between J-hook group and microimplant group was significant (P < 0.01). The other differences of cephalometric analyses between J-hook group and micro-implant group was not significant. Both J-hook and micro-implant could provide adequate anchorage in the treatment of patients with bimaxillary protrusion.

The crystal structure of ianthinite, [U 24+(UO 2) 4O 6(OH) 4(H 2O) 4](H 2O) 5: a possible phase for Pu 4+ incorporation during the oxidation of spent nuclear fuel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burns, Peter C.; Finch, Robert J.; Hawthorne, Frank C.; Miller, Mark L.; Ewing, Rodney C.

1997-10-01

Ianthinite, [U 24+(UO 2) 4O 6(OH) 4(H 2O) 4](H 2O) 5, is the only known uranyl oxide hydrate mineral that contains U 4+, and it has been proposed that ianthinite may be an important Pu 4+-bearing phase during the oxidative dissolution of spent nuclear fuel. The crystal structure of ianthinite, orthorhombic, a = 0.7178(2), b = 1.1473(2), c = 3.039(1) nm, V = 2.5027 nm 3Z = 4, space group P2 1cn, has been solved by direct methods and refined by least-squares methods to an R index of 9.7% and a wR index of 12.6% using 888 unique observed [| F| ≥ 5 σ | F|] reflections. The structure contains both U 4+. The U 6+ cations are present as roughly linear (U 6+O 2) 2+ uranyl ion (Ur) that are in turn coordinated by five O 2- and OH - located at the equatorial positions of pentagonal bipyramids. The U 4+ cations are coordinated by O 2-, OH - and H 2O in a distorted octahedral arrangement. The Ur φ5and U 4+| 6 (φ: O 2-, OH -, H 2O) polyhedra l sharing edges to for two symmetrically distinct sheets at z ≈ 0.0 and z ≈ 0.25 that are parallel to (001). The sheets have the β-U 3O 8 sheet anion-topology. There are five symmetrically distinct H 2O groips located at z ≈ 0.125 between the sheets of U φn polyhedra, and the sheets of U φn polyhedra are linked together only by hydrogen bonding to the intersheet H 2O groups. The crystal-chemical requirements of U 4+ and Pu 4+ are very similar, suggesting that extensive Pu 4+ ↔ U 4+ substitution may occur within the sheets of U φn polyhedra in trh structure of ianthinine.

Quantitative neonatal glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase screening: distribution, reference values, and classification by phenotype.

PubMed

Algur, Nurit; Avraham, Irit; Hammerman, Cathy; Kaplan, Michael

2012-08-01

To determine enzyme assay reference values for newborns in a Sephardic Jewish population at high risk for glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency. Quantitative G6PD testing was performed on umbilical cord blood. The reduction of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate-oxidase, reflecting G6PD activity, was measured spectrophotometrically. Hemoglobin (Hb) was measured on the same sample. G6PD activity was recorded as U/g Hb. Males (N = 1502) were separated into 2 distinct groups: those <7 U/g Hb (n = 243 [16.2%], median 0.28 U/g Hb), designated G6PD deficient, presumably hemizygotes; and those ≥ 9 U/g Hb (n = 1256 [83.8%], 18.76 U/g Hb), designated G6PD normal, presumably hemizygotes. Female (n = 1298) values were a continuum and were categorized based on the male distribution: those <7 U/g Hb (n = 81 [6.2%], 4.84 U/g Hb), G6PD deficient, probably homozogytes; those ≥ 9.5 U/g Hb, equivalent to 50% of the male normal value, (n = 1153 (88.8%), 18.36 U/g Hb), G6PD normal, probably homozygotes; and those with intermediate values (n = 64 [4.9%], 8.61 U/g Hb), probable heterozygotes. Accurate identification of the male G6PD-deficient state was possible despite high normal neonatal G6PD values. Female values were presented as a continuum preventing accurate classification but were classified based on male phenotype for practical use. Copyright © 2012 Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

Administration of human recombinant activated protein C is not associated with pancreatic parenchymal haemorrhage in L-arginine-induced experimental acute pancreatitis.

PubMed

Jamdar, Saurabh; Babu, Benoy I; Nirmalan, Mahesh; Jeziorska, Maria; McMahon, Raymond F T; Siriwardena, Ajith K

2013-11-10

Microvascular thrombosis is a critical event in severe acute pancreatitis. Human recombinant activated protein C (Xigris®, Eli Lilly, Indianapolis, IN, USA) modulates the interplay between pro-inflammatory and pro-coagulant pathways and maintains microvascular patency. However, the anticoagulant properties of Xigris® may precipitate bleeding from the inflamed pancreas. This study tests the hypothesis that Xigris® can ameliorate experimental acute pancreatitis without causing pancreatic haemorrhage. Sprague Dawley rats were allocated as follows: Group 1: control (n=7); Group 2: acute pancreatitis (n=6); Group 3: administration of Xigris® 500 µg/kg body weight before induction of acute pancreatitis (n=6); and Group 4: Administration of Xigris® 500 µg/kg body weight 30 minutes after induction of acute pancreatitis (n=6). Acute pancreatitis was induced by intraperitoneal administration of L-arginine 300 mg/100 g body weight. Animals were sacrificed at 48 hours and biochemical, haematological, and histological markers of pancreatic haemorrhage and inflammation assessed. Median lipase in animals with acute pancreatitis was 10 U/mL (range: 7-16 U/mL) compared to 5.5 (range: 3-8 U/mL) in controls (P=0.028). Lipase was also elevated in animals given Xigris® both before (12 U/mL, range: 8-22 U/mL; P=0.031 vs. control group) and after (46 U/mL, range: 9-71 U/mL; P=0.015 vs. control group) induction of acute pancreatitis). Haemoglobin levels were similar among all groups (P=0.323). There was no histological evidence of pancreatic haemorrhage in animals treated with Xigris®. Pre-treatment with Xigris® was associated with a significant reduction in pancreatic injury. This effect was absent when Xigris® was administered after induction of acute pancreatitis. Xigris® did not lead to pancreatic haemorrhage in experimental acute pancreatitis. Administration of Xigris® prior to induction of acute pancreatitis was associated with amelioration of injury. This effect was not seen with administration of Xigris® after induction of acute pancreatitis.

Military Review. Volume 88, Number 6, November-December 2008

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-12-01

in the 1920s, the father of psycho- analysis, sigmund Freud , turned that notion on its head through his studies of group psychology. Freud argued...Confident and Agile (Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, 2006), 8-6. 6. Sigmund Freud , Group Psychology and the Analysis of the Ego (New

[Assessment of high sensitivity C-reactive protein (HS-CRP) as a marker of liver inflammation in patients with metabolic syndrome].

PubMed

Rodríguez-Leal, Gustavo Arturo; Morán, Segundo; Gallardo, Irazu; Milke, Pilar; Guevara-González, Luis

2006-01-01

C-reactive protein (CRP) plays an important role on inflammatory processes associated to the metabolic syndrome (MS), alike of insulin sensitivity, endothelial dysfunction and fibrinolysis insufficiency. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) may be a sensible marker for the diagnosis of hepatic damage and has therefore been used as an alternative method for the noninvasive diagnosis of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), especially in epidemiological studies. At the present time, the possible utility of high sensitivity CRP (hsCRP) as a simple measure to detect the degree of hepatic inflammatory response during the development NAFLD in MS has not been explored. To evaluate the measurement of serologic hsCRP for the identification of hepatic inflammatory response in patients with MS. Seven hundred and forty persons (526 men and 214 women), mean age 45 +/- 11 years who were asymptomatic and otherwise seeming healthy in whom a medical questionnaire was applied underwent physical examination, laboratory testing, hepatic ultrasound and measurement of hsCRP by the immuno-turbidimetric method. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of all possible hsCRP for detecting different degrees of hepatic inflammation (ALT > 44 U/L and ALT > 88 U/L). Patients were stratified according to the presence of metabolic syndrome (MS) and ALT concentration in three groups: Group I, having MS and ALT > 44 U/L (n = 39); Group II, having ALT > 44 U/L without MS (n = 105) and Group III, having ALT < or = 44 U/L without MS (n = 596). The optimal hsCRP cut-off for detecting patients with ALT 44 U/L was 2.5 mg/L (sensibility 66%; specificity 50%) and for detecting patients with ALT > 88 U/L was 2.35 (sensibility 72%; specificity 59%). hsCRP serum concentrations in Group I were significantly higher than in Group II and Group III (p < 0.05) but no difference was found between Group II and Group III (Group I = 6.0 +/- 6.7 mg/L vs. Group II = 2.8 +/- 3.1 mg/L, vs. Group III = 2.9 +/- 4.1 mg/L). ALT concentrations were also significantly higher in Group I than in Group II and Group III, (p < 0.05) and a difference between Group II and Group III (p < 0.05) was also found (Group I = 72 +/- 31 U/L vs. Group II = 64 +/- 29 U/L vs. Group III = 24 +/- 8 U/L). These results suggest that the measurement of hsCRP for the identification of hepatic inflammatory response in patients with MS with NAFLD is limited because of its low sensibility and specificity observed on identifying different degrees of hepatic inflammation.

Finding the missing stimulus mismatch negativity (MMN): Emitted MMN to violations of an auditory gestalt

PubMed Central

Salisbury, Dean F

2011-01-01

Deviations from repetitive auditory stimuli evoke a mismatch negativity (MMN). Counter-intuitively, omissions of repetitive stimuli do not. Violations of patterns reflecting complex rules also evoke MMN. To detect a MMN to missing stimuli, we developed an auditory gestalt task using one stimulus. Groups of 6 pips (50 msec duration, 330 msec stimulus onset asynchrony (SOA), 400 trials), were presented with an inter-trial interval (ITI) of 750 msec while subjects (n=16) watched a silent video. Occasional deviant groups had missing 4th or 6th tones (50 trials each). Missing stimuli evoked a MMN (p<.05). The missing 4th (−0.8 uV, p <.01) and the missing 6th stimuli (−1.1 uV, p <.05) were more negative than standard 6th stimuli (0.3 uV). MMN can be elicited by a missing stimulus at long SOAs by violation of a gestalt grouping rule. Homogenous stimulus streams appear to differ in the relative weighting of omissions than strongly patterned streams. PMID:22221004

Distribution of PON1 polymorphisms PON1Q192R and PON1L55M among Chinese, Malay and Indian males in Singapore and possible susceptibility to organophosphate exposure.

PubMed

Chia, Sin Eng; Mohamed Ali, Safiyya; Yap, Peng Huat Eric; Gan, Linda; Ong, Yeong Bing; Chia, Kee Seng

2009-03-01

Organophosphate (OP)-containing pesticides are widely used worldwide for domestic and industrial purposes. Studies on acute and chronic exposure to OPs have revealed numerous health effects attributed mainly to acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibition. The enzyme human serum paraoxonase (PON1) is involved in the detoxification of OP compounds. PON1 polymorphisms have been shown to affect susceptibility to OP exposure. We studied the effect of OP exposure on pest control workers and assessed the distribution of two common PON1 polymorphisms in our local population. The exposed group consisted of 103 workers from various pest control companies under the Singapore Pest Management Association while the 91 unexposed workers were from a lead stabilizer factory. For all workers, the mean age was 36.9 (20-70) years and the ethnic distribution was 38.1% Chinese, 44.3% Malay and 17.5% Indian. The mean+/-S.D. exposure duration among the pesticide workers was 10.4+/-8.4 years. The mean+/-S.D. RBC cholinesterase level was 18436.2+/-2078U/L and 18079.6+/-1576U/L for the exposed and unexposed groups, respectively (p=0.216). The mean+/-S.D. serum pseudocholinesterase was 11028.4+/-2867.4U/L and 9433.6+/-2022.6U/L in the exposed and unexposed groups, respectively (p<0.0001). Mean paraoxonase activity was similar among Chinese and Malays (266.5 and 266.3U/L, respectively) whereas that of the Indians was significantly lower (165.6U/L). Our study showed that cholinesterase levels among the exposed were not lower than those in the unexposed group. PON1 polymorphisms differed among ethnic groups, implying that ethnicity could be an important surrogate for identifying susceptible groups in case of OP exposure. Although OP poisoning is rare among occupationally exposed workers in Singapore, this information is useful for other developing countries that have large populations of Chinese, Malays and Indians where OP exposure could be very high especially in agricultural settings.

Effects of recombinant human extracellular-superoxide dismutase type C on myocardial infarct size in pigs.

PubMed

Hatori, N; Sjöquist, P O; Marklund, S L; Rydén, L

1992-09-01

The efficacy of human extracellular-superoxide dismutase type C (EC-SOD C) to limit infarct size after ischemia and reperfusion was explored and compared to that of EC-SOD C combined with catalase (CAT) and to that of CAT alone. EC-SOD C binds to heparan sulphate proteoglycan on the cell surfaces. Thirty-two pigs were subjected to 45 min of myocardial ischemia followed by 4 h of reperfusion. Control pigs (group A; n = 8) received 300 mL of saline into the great cardiac vein during a 30-min period started 5 min prior to reperfusion; pigs in group B (EC-SOD C; n = 8) got 16.6 mg of EC-SOD C; pigs in group C (EC-SOD C + CAT; n = 8) got 16.6 mg of EC-SOD C together with 150 mg of CAT. Pigs in group D (CAT; n = 8) received 150 mg of CAT. In groups B, C, and D, the drug was dissolved in saline and infused into the great cardiac. Infarct size expressed as percent of area at risk was smaller in groups B (14.5 +/- 16.7%) and C (40.8 +/- 13.3%) than in groups A (78.8 +/- 8.6%) and D (67.2 +/- 18.6%; p less than .05). Creatine kinase (CK) activity in ischemic myocardium was higher in groups B (1740 +/- 548 U/g) and C (1729 +/- 358 U/g) than in groups A (1184 +/- 237 U/g) and D (1251 +/- 434 U/g; p less than .05). There was an inverse relation (r = -.83) between infarct size and CK content. The EC-SOD C infusions resulted in only minimal increases in plasma SOD activities. In conclusion, the presence of SOD on the cell surfaces is of importance in the prevention of reperfusion injury rather than circulating SOD.

The effectiveness of zinc supplementation in men with isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism.

PubMed

Liu, Yan-Ling; Zhang, Man-Na; Tong, Guo-Yu; Sun, Shou-Yue; Zhu, Yan-Hua; Cao, Ying; Zhang, Jie; Huang, Hong; Niu, Ben; Li, Hong; Guo, Qing-Hua; Gao, Yan; Zhu, Da-Long; Li, Xiao-Ying

2017-01-01

A multicenter, open-label, randomized, controlled superiority trial with 18 months of follow-up was conducted to investigate whether oral zinc supplementation could further promote spermatogenesis in males with isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH) receiving sequential purified urinary follicular-stimulating hormone/human chorionic gonadotropin (uFSH/hCG) replacement. Sixty-seven Chinese male IHH patients were recruited from the Departments of Endocrinology in eight tertiary hospitals and randomly allocated into the sequential uFSH/hCG group (Group A, n = 34) or the sequential uFSH plus zinc supplementation group (Group B, n = 33). In Group A, patients received sequential uFSH (75 U, three times a week every other 3 months) and hCG (2000 U, twice a week) treatments. In Group B, patients received oral zinc supplementation (40 mg day-1 ) in addition to the sequential uFSH/hCG treatment given to patients in Group A. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients with a sperm concentration ≥1.0 × 106 ml-1 during the 18 months. The comparison of efficacy between Groups A and B was analyzed. Nineteen of 34 (55.9%) patients receiving sequential uFSH/hCG and 20 of 33 (60.6%) patients receiving sequential uFSH/hCG plus zinc supplementation achieved sperm concentrations ≥1.0 × 106 ml-1 by intention to treat analyses. No differences between Group A and Group B were observed as far as the efficacy of inducing spermatogenesis (P = 0.69). We concluded that the sequential uFSH/hCG plus zinc supplementation regimen had a similar efficacy to the sequential uFSH/hCG treatment alone. The additional improvement of 40 mg day-1 oral zinc supplementation on spermatogenesis and masculinization in male IHH patients is very subtle.

Formation of the U.S. Air Force Aviator Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Study Group

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-11-15

to endorse PTSD during all four subsequent evaluations. Notably, they found that lingering symptoms of PTSD occurred frequently for both groups of...AFRL-SA-WP-TR-2016-0017 Formation of the U.S. Air Force Aviator Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Study Group Joe D. Wood, III...Aviator Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Study Group 5a. CONTRACT NUMBER 5b. GRANT NUMBER 5c. PROGRAM ELEMENT NUMBER 6. AUTHOR(S) Joe D

Measurement Equivalence of the K6 Scale: The Effects of Race/Ethnicity and Language

PubMed Central

Kim, Giyeon; DeCoster, Jamie; Bryant, Ami N.; Ford, Katy L.

2017-01-01

This study examined the measurement equivalence of the K6 across diverse racial/ethnic and linguistic groups in the U.S. differential item functioning analyses using item response theory were conducted among 44,846 U.S. adults drawn from the California Health Interview Survey. Results show that four items (“nervous,” “restless,” “depressed,” and “everything an effort”) varied significantly across races/ethnicities and four items (“nervous,” “hopeless,” “restless,” and “depressed”) varied significantly across languages. In additional effect size analyses designed to separate effects of race/ethnicity from language, the structure of the White English group was substantially different from both the Hispanic/Latino English group and Hispanic/Latino Spanish group, whereas the Hispanic/Latino Spanish group was not different from the Hispanic/Latino English group. The findings suggest that there was evident measurement nonequivalence in the K6 among racially/ethnically and linguistically diverse adults and that the observed nonequivalence in the K6 appears to be driven by language rather than race/ethnicity. PMID:26282779

Bilateral versus unilateral thyroid eye disease

PubMed Central

Kashkouli, Mohsen Bahmani; Kaghazkanani, Reza; Heidari, Iraj; Ketabi, Nooshin; Jam, Sara; Azarnia, Shahrzad; Pakdel, Farzad

2011-01-01

Aims: The aim of this study was to compare demographics, clinical manifestations, associated systemic and ocular factors, severity and activity of patients with unilateral thyroid eye disease (U-TED) versus bilateral thyroid eye disease (B-TED). Materials and Methods: In a cross-sectional study, all patients with Graves’ hyperthyroidism and primary hypothyroidism seen in an endocrinology clinic were included from September 2003 to July 2006. Demographics, complete eye examination, severity score (NOSPECS, total eye score), and clinical activity score were recorded and compared in the B-TED and U-TED groups of patients. Results: From 851 patients with thyroid disorders, 303 (35.6%) had TED. Thirty-two patients (32/ 303, 10.56%) were found to have U-TED. Patients with U-TED (mean age 31.6 ± 11.6 years) were significantly younger than patients with B-TED (mean age 37.7 ± 14.7 years). Monovariate analysis (Chi-square and independent sample t-test) showed a significantly higher severity score in B-TED (U-TED 4.09±4.05, B-TED: 6.7±6.3; P= 0.002) and more activity score in B-TED (U-TED= 1.03±0.96, B-TED: 1.74±1.6, P= 0.001). However, multivariate analysis did not show any significant difference between the two groups in terms of age, gender, type of thyroid disease, duration of thyroid disease and TED, severity and activity of TED, smoking habit, and presentation of TED before or after the presentation of thyroid disease (0.1

[Clinical effects of micro-implant and traditional anchorage in orthodontic treatments].

PubMed

Qian, Yi; Zhou, Hua-Jie; Wu, Jian-Hua

2017-06-01

To analyze the value of micro-implant and traditional anchorage in the treatment of malocclusion. From Jan 2015 to Jan 2016, 20 cases with malocclusion were randomly divided into control group(10) and experimental group (10). A comparison was conducted between the control group, in which traditional anchorage was used and the experimental group, in which micro-implant anchorage was adopted. The data were analyzed with SPSS 17.0 software package. There was significant difference of U1-NA, L1-NB, U1-APg, U6-PtPNS between the 2 groups(P<0.05). Adverse reaction was not found in the control group, but 8% in the experimental group(P<0.05). Micro-implant anchorage can improve overjet relation of the anterior teeth and effect of orthodontic treatment.

Insulin has a biphasic effect on the ability of human chorionic gonadotropin to induce ovarian cysts in the rat.

PubMed

Bogovich, K; Clemons, J; Poretsky, L

1999-08-01

Hyperinsulinemia enhances the ability of subovulatory doses of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) to induce ovarian follicular cysts in the rat. To determine the relative contribution of these hormones to the development of ovarian cysts, adult female rats were treated with either (1) vehicle alone (controls), (2) a high-fat diet (HFD) to control for the effects of weight gain, (3) 1.5 to 6 IU hCG twice daily plus 6 U insulin (Ins)/d, or (4) 1.5 to 9 U Ins/d plus 3 IU hCG twice daily. On day 23 of the in vivo treatments, all groups that received at least 6 U Ins/d displayed increased body weight compared with control and HFD rats (P < or = .05). No control rats and only one HFD rat displayed ovarian cysts on this day. Plasma estrone (E1) and androstenedione (A4) were elevated in HFD rats with noncystic follicles compared with control rats (P < or = .05). Between 64% and 80% of rats on 6 U Ins/d plus twice-daily injections of 1.5 to 6 IU hCG displayed ovarian cysts on day 23. Plasma estradiol (E2) concentrations for these treatment groups were similar to those of control rats. Of the hormonally treated animals, only those that had ovarian cysts in response to twice-daily injections of 4.5 or 6 IU hCG plus 6 U Ins/d displayed elevated plasma A4 and/or testosterone compared with controls. In contrast, plasma E1 concentrations were elevated on day 23 for animals bearing ovarian cysts in response to increasing doses of hCG plus the fixed dose of 6 U Ins/d. Between 70% and 80% of rats treated twice daily with 3 IU hCG plus a daily dose of 1.5 to 6 U Ins displayed ovarian cysts on day 23. In marked contrast, only 25% of rats treated with this dose of hCG plus 9 U Ins/d developed cystic follicles. Of the plasma steroids tested, only E1 and A4 were elevated in these treatment groups compared with controls. However, these increases in plasma steroid concentrations did not correlate with the dose of insulin. We conclude from these data that, although the mechanisms remain to be elucidated, extreme hyperinsulinemia has the paradoxical ability to attenuate the induction of ovarian cysts by hCG in some animals.

Uncontrolled Hemorrhage Differs From Volume- or Pressure-Matched Controlled Hemorrhage in Swine

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-10-01

differences between these models, we evaluated the relationship between blood volume loss and blood pressure in controlled versus uncontrolled hemorrhage...aortotomy; (2) group P, controlled hemorrhage matched to the blood pressure profile of group U; or (3) group V, controlled hemorrhage matched to the...hemorrhage and received no fluid resuscitation. Group U resulted in a blood loss of 17.6 T 0.7 mL kgj1 and a reduction in blood pressure to 28 T 3 mmHg at

Procollagen-III peptide and chronic viral C hepatitis.

PubMed

Jeffers, L J; Coelho-Little, M E; Cheinquer, H; Vargas, C; Civantos, F; Alvarez, L; Reddy, K R; Parker, T; de Medina, M; Li, X

1995-09-01

Chronic hepatitis develops in at least half of persons acutely infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV). Ten to 25% of these patients will develop cirrhosis. Serum procollagen-III peptide (PIIIP) may be of value in predicting the development of chronic active fibrogenic liver disease. It has been reported that in chronic viral C hepatitis, the levels of hepatitis C virus-RNA (HCV-RNA) correlate directly with the severity of hepatic histology and inversely with response to interferon therapy. The aims of this study were to correlate the level of PIIIP with HCV-RNA concentrations, ALT values, and histological severity in patients with chronic viral C hepatitis. Eighty-six patients with chronic C hepatitis were divided into three groups: group I (n = 34), mild chronic active hepatitis, group II (n = 25), moderate to severe chronic active hepatitis, and group III (n = 27), cirrhosis. HCV-RNA was measured by Quantiplex, and PIIIP was measured by radioimmunoassay-gnostic assay. Mean +/- SD level of ALT in group I was 114 +/- 48 U/L, group II was 169 +/- 115 U/L, and group III was 160 +/- 94 U/L. The mean +/- SD level of HCV-RNA in group I was 110 +/- 130 x 10(5) Eq/ml, in group II was 140 +/- 140 x 10(5) Eq/ml, and in group III was 70 +/- 80 x 105 Eq/ml. The mean +/- SD level of PIIIP in group I was 0.6 +/- 0.2 U/ml, in group II was 0.9 +/- 0.4 U/ml, and in group III was 1.2 +/- 0.6. There was a significant difference in the levels of PIIIP among the three groups (p = 0.0001). There was no correlation among ALT, HCV-RNA, and PIIIP in any of the three groups. PIIIP peptide determinations in patients with chronic viral C hepatitis are reflective of histological severity and may provide relatively noninvasive means of following disease progression.

Exploratory Solid-State Synthesis of Uranium Chalcogenides and Mixed Anion Uranium Chalcogenides

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ward, Matthew David

Several uranium chalcogenides and mixed anion uranium chalcogenides have been synthesized by solid-state synthetic methods. Structural determinations were carried out via single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Some of these compounds have been further characterized by magnetic measurements, optical properties measurements, Raman spectroscopy, resistivity measurements, XANES and XPS. Eight compounds of the composition MU8Q17 were synthesized and characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. All of these compounds crystallize in the CrU8S17 structure type. XANES measurements indicate that ScU8S17 contains Sc3+ and must be charge balanced with some amount of U 3+. Two compounds of the composition ATiU3Te9 crystallize as black rectangular plates. From single-crystal magnetic measurements, CsTiU 3Te9 is consistent with antiferromagnetic coupling between magnetic U atoms. The uranium chalcogenide compounds NiUS3 and Cr4US 8 were synthesized from reaction of the elements in various fluxes. NiUS3 crystallizes in the GdFeO3 structure type. Cr 4US8 crystallizes in the orthorhombic space group D - Pnma and its structure is related to that of Li4UF 8. The compounds Rh2U6S15, Cs 2Ti2U6Se15, and Cs2Cr 2U6Se15 crystallize as black prisms in the cubic space group O-Im3m. Magnetic measurements on Cs 2Cr2U6Se15 give a value for the Weiss temperature, θWeiss, of 57.59 K, indicative of ferromagnetic coupling. Black plates of CsScU(Se2)Se3 were synthesized from the reaction of the elements in a CsCl flux. CsScU(Se2)Se 3 crystallizes in the orthorhombic space group D- Cmcm . Magnetic susceptibility measurements on CsScU(Se2)Se 3 indicate three regions of magnetic response. The uranium double salt Cs5[U2(μ-S 2)2Cl8]I crystallizes as red plates. Cs 5[U2(μ-S2)2Cl 8]I displays optical anisotropy with band gap energies of 1.99 eV and 2.08 eV along the [001] and [100] polarizations. The uranium oxychalcogenides U7O2Se12 and Na2Ba2(UO2)S4 were synthesized by intentional oxygen contamination. The structure of U7O 2Se12 is related to the previously reported U7Q 12. Na2Ba2(UO2)S4 contains isolated uranyl polyhedra in which each uranium atom may be assigned an oxidation state of +6. The four uranium(IV) chlorophosphates, UCl4(POCl3), [U2Cl9][PCl4], UCl3(PO2Cl 2), and U2Cl8(POCl3) were synthesized in an effort to synthesize new novel uranyl sulfides. All are unstable, but UCl4(POCl3) is the thermodynamically favorable phase.

The effects of an enrichment training program for youth football attackers

PubMed Central

Santos, Sara; Gonçalves, Bruno; Travassos, Bruno; Wong, Del P.; Schöllhorn, Wolfgang; Sampaio, Jaime

2018-01-01

The aim of this study was to identify the effects of a complementary training program based on differential learning approach in the physical, technical, creative and positioning performance of youth football attackers. Fifteen players were allocated into the control (U15C = 9, age: 13.9±0.5 years; U17C = 6, age: 16.1±0.7 years) and the experimental (U15E = 9, age: 14.2±0.8 years; U17E = 6, age: 15.8±0.5 years) groups. The experimental groups participated in 10-weeks of a complementary training program based on differential learning approach to improve physical literacy and players’ tactical behavior. Variables studied encompassed: motor (vertical jump, speed and repeated change-of direction), technical (pass, dribble and shot), creative (fluency, attempts, versatility) and positioning-related variables (stretch index, spatial exploration index and regularity of the lateral and longitudinal movements). Results revealed that U15E improved both the jump and repeated change-of-direction performance, while the U17E have only improved the jump performance. The U15E showed improvements in all technical variables (small to large effects), and in the fluency and versatility (moderate effects), while the U17 have only improved the successful shots (large effects). From a positional perspective, there was a moderate increase in the stretch index, and decreased longitudinal and lateral regularity (small to moderate effects) in the U15E compared to the U15C. In turn, the U17E revealed a moderate increase of the spatial exploration index and a small decrease in the stretch index. Overall, the results suggest that the complementary training program was effective for the development of the overall performance of the U15E attackers, while more time and/or variability may be needed for older age groups. Nevertheless, the overall higher values found in experimental groups, may suggest that this type of complementary training program improves performance. PMID:29897985

The effects of flipped learning for bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation on undergraduate medical students.

PubMed

Nakanishi, Taizo; Goto, Tadahiro; Kobuchi, Taketsune; Kimura, Tetsuya; Hayashi, Hiroyuki; Tokuda, Yasuharu

2017-12-22

To compare bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation skills retention between conventional learning and flipped learning for first-year medical students. A post-test only control group design. A total of 108 participants were randomly assigned to either the conventional learning or flipped learning. The primary outcome measures of time to the first chest compression and the number of total chest compressions during a 2-minute test period 6 month after the training were assessed with the Mann-Whitney U test. Fifty participants (92.6%) in the conventional learning group and 45 participants (83.3%) in the flipped learning group completed the study. There were no statistically significant differences 6 months after the training in the time to the first chest compression of 33.0 seconds (interquartile range, 24.0-42.0) for the conventional learning group and 31.0 seconds (interquartile range, 25.0-41.0) for the flipped learning group (U=1171.0, p=0.73) or in the number of total chest compressions of 101.5 (interquartile range, 90.8-124.0) for the conventional learning group and 104.0 (interquartile range, 91.0-121.0) for the flipped learning group (U=1083.0, p=0.75). The 95% confidence interval of the difference between means of the number of total chest compressions 6 months after the training did not exceed a clinically important difference defined a priori. There were no significant differences between the conventional learning group and the flipped learning group in our main outcomes. Flipped learning might be comparable to conventional learning, and seems a promising approach which requires fewer resources and enables student-centered learning without compromising the acquisition of CPR skills.

Maternal pomegranate juice attenuates maternal inflammation-induced fetal brain injury by inhibition of apoptosis, neural nitric oxide synthase and NF-κB in a rat model.

PubMed

Ginsberg, Yuval; Khatib, Nizar; Saadi, Noor; Ross, Michael G; Weinr, Zeev; Beloosesky, Ron

2018-04-27

Maternal inflammation is a risk factor for neonatal brain injury and future neurological deficits. Pomegranates have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic and anti-oxidant activities. We hypothesized that pomegranate juice (POM) may attenuate fetal brain injury in a rat model of maternal inflammation. Pregnant rats (24 total) were randomized for i.p. LPS (100 ug/kg) or saline at time 0 at 18 days of gestation. From day 11 of gestation, 12 dams were provided ad libitum access to drinking water, and 12 dams were provided ad libitum access to drinking water with pomegranate juice (5cc per day), resulting in 4 groups of 6 dams (SAL/SAL, POM/SAL, SAL/LPS, POM/LPS). All dams were sacrificed 4 hours following the injection and maternal blood and fetal brains were collected from the 4 treatment groups. Maternal IL-6 serum levels and fetal brain caspase 3 active form (af), NF-kB p65, neuronal nitric oxide synthase (phospho-nNOS) and pro-inflammatory cytokine levels were determined by ELISA and western blot. Maternal LPS significantly increased maternal serum IL-6 levels (6039 ± 1039 vs 66 ± 46pg/ml; p < 0.05) and fetal brain caspase 3 af, NF-kB p65, phospho-nNOS and the pro-inflammatory cytokines compared to the control group (caspase 3 af 0.26 ± 0.01 vs. 0.20 ± 0.01 u; NF-κB p65 0.24 ± 0.01 vs. 0.1 ± 0.01 u; phospho-nNOS 0.23 ± 0.01 vs. 0.11 ± 0.01 u; IL-6 0.25 ± 0.01 vs. 0.09 ± 0.01 u; TNFα 0.26 ± 0.01 vs. 0.12 ± 0.01 u; CCL2 0.23 ± 0.01 vs. 0.1 ± 0.01 u). Maternal supplementation of POM to LPS exposed dams (POM/LPS) significantly reduced maternal serum IL-6 levels (3059± 1121pg/ml, fetal brain: caspase 3 af (0.2 ± 0.01 u), NF-κB p65 (0.22 ± 0.01 u), phospho-nNOS (0.19 ± 0.01 u) as well as the brain pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNFα and CCL2) compared to LPS group. Maternal POM supplementation may attenuate maternal-inflammation-induced fetal brain injury. POM neuroprotective effects might be secondary to the suppression of both the maternal inflammatory response and inhibition of fetal brain apoptosis, neuronal nitric oxide synthase and NF-kB activation. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Effectiveness of Educational Audiology on the Language Development of Hearing Handicapped Children. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stewart, Joseph L.

Two groups of hard of hearing children entered educational audiology programs between the ages of 6 to 42 months. Of these, 12 children in a unisensory program (U-) and 16 in a multisensory program (M-) were evaluated for speech and language development after they had reached their fifth birthdays. Children in the experimental U-group were first…

Effects of Olmesartan and Azilsartan on Albuminuria and the Intrarenal Renin-Angiotensin System

PubMed Central

Takami, Takeshi; Okada, Sadanori; Saito, Yoshihiko; Nishijima, Yoko; Kobori, Hiroyuki; Nishiyama, Akira

2018-01-01

Purpose Olmesartan and azilsartan decrease blood pressure more effectively than other angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs). ARBs additionally decrease the urinary albumin to creatinine ratio (UACR), a urinary albumin marker, and urinary angiotensinogen (u-AGT), an intrarenal renin-angiotensin system activity marker. We examined the effects of these ARBs on blood pressure, UACR, and u-AGT in patients with uncontrolled hypertension. Methods Patients with uncontrolled hypertension treated with conventional ARBs, excluding olmesartan and azilsartan, for over 8 weeks were enrolled. We randomly switched patients from their prior ARBs to either olmesartan or azilsartan, and followed them for 24 weeks. Results Systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and central systolic blood pressure (cSBP) significantly decreased at 24 weeks. UACR and u-AGT also decreased at 24 weeks in both groups. There were no significant differences in SBP, DBP, cSBP, UACR, or u-AGT between the groups. Therefore, we combined both groups for further analyses. After combining, SBP (160.5 ± 16.4 to 139.6 ± 15.6 mm Hg, P < 0.0001), DBP (88.4 ± 13.7 to 80.7 ± 13.2 mm Hg, P = 0.008), cSBP (167.4 ± 20.8 to 146.6 ± 24.6 mm Hg, P < 0.0001), UACR (13.8 to 9.0 mg/g Cre, P = 0.0096), and u-AGT (4.13 to 2.32 μg/g Cre, P = 0.0074) significantly decreased at 24 weeks. Patients with microalbuminuria (UACR ≥ 30 mg/g Cre) had significantly greater ΔUACR (−39.4 vs 0.27, P = 0.0024) and Δu-AGT (−11.9 vs −0.61, P = 0.0235) than patients without microalbuminuria. The changes in u-AGT were significantly associated with changes in UACR (r = 0.411, P = 0.046); however, there was no significant relationship between the changes in u-AGT and those in SBP or DBP. Conclusion Olmesartan and azilsartan decreased blood pressure, UACR, and u-AGT more than the other ARBs, and exerted depressor and renoprotective effects. PMID:29683146

Effects of Olmesartan and Azilsartan on Albuminuria and the Intrarenal Renin-Angiotensin System.

PubMed

Takami, Takeshi; Okada, Sadanori; Saito, Yoshihiko; Nishijima, Yoko; Kobori, Hiroyuki; Nishiyama, Akira

2018-01-01

Olmesartan and azilsartan decrease blood pressure more effectively than other angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs). ARBs additionally decrease the urinary albumin to creatinine ratio (UACR), a urinary albumin marker, and urinary angiotensinogen (u-AGT), an intrarenal renin-angiotensin system activity marker. We examined the effects of these ARBs on blood pressure, UACR, and u-AGT in patients with uncontrolled hypertension. Patients with uncontrolled hypertension treated with conventional ARBs, excluding olmesartan and azilsartan, for over 8 weeks were enrolled. We randomly switched patients from their prior ARBs to either olmesartan or azilsartan, and followed them for 24 weeks. Systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and central systolic blood pressure (cSBP) significantly decreased at 24 weeks. UACR and u-AGT also decreased at 24 weeks in both groups. There were no significant differences in SBP, DBP, cSBP, UACR, or u-AGT between the groups. Therefore, we combined both groups for further analyses. After combining, SBP (160.5 ± 16.4 to 139.6 ± 15.6 mm Hg, P < 0.0001), DBP (88.4 ± 13.7 to 80.7 ± 13.2 mm Hg, P = 0.008), cSBP (167.4 ± 20.8 to 146.6 ± 24.6 mm Hg, P < 0.0001), UACR (13.8 to 9.0 mg/g Cre, P = 0.0096), and u-AGT (4.13 to 2.32 μg/g Cre, P = 0.0074) significantly decreased at 24 weeks. Patients with microalbuminuria (UACR ≥ 30 mg/g Cre) had significantly greater ΔUACR (-39.4 vs 0.27, P = 0.0024) and Δu-AGT (-11.9 vs -0.61, P = 0.0235) than patients without microalbuminuria. The changes in u-AGT were significantly associated with changes in UACR (r = 0.411, P = 0.046); however, there was no significant relationship between the changes in u-AGT and those in SBP or DBP. Olmesartan and azilsartan decreased blood pressure, UACR, and u-AGT more than the other ARBs, and exerted depressor and renoprotective effects.

15 CFR 744.6 - Restrictions on certain activities of U.S. persons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... REGULATIONS CONTROL POLICY: END-USER AND END-USE BASED § 744.6 Restrictions on certain activities of U.S... item where that person knows that such item: (A) Will be used in the design, development, production, or use of nuclear explosive devices in or by a country listed in Country Group D:2 (see supplement no...

Single-crystal growth of C u4(OH) 6BrF and universal behavior in quantum spin liquid candidates synthetic barlowite and herbertsmithite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pasco, C. M.; Trump, B. A.; Tran, Thao T.; Kelly, Z. A.; Hoffmann, C.; Heinmaa, I.; Stern, R.; McQueen, T. M.

2018-04-01

Synthetic barlowite, C u4(OH) 6BrF , has emerged as a new quantum spin liquid (QSL) host, containing kagomé layers of S =1 /2 C u2 + ions separated by interlayer C u2 + ions. Similar to synthetic herbertsmithite, ZnC u3(OH) 6C l2 , it has been reported that Z n2 + substitution for the interlayer C u2 + induces a QSL ground state. Here we report a scalable synthesis of single crystals of C u4(OH) 6BrF . Through x-ray, neutron, and electron diffraction measurements coupled with magic angle spinning 19F and 1H NMR spectroscopy, we resolve the previously reported positional disorder of the interlayer C u2 + ions and find that the structure is best described in the orthorhombic space group, Cmcm, with lattice parameters a =6.665 (13 )Å ,b =11.521 (2 )Å ,c =9.256 (18 )Å , and an ordered arrangement of interlayer C u2 + ions. Infrared spectroscopy measurements of the O—H and F—H stretching frequencies demonstrate that the orthorhombic symmetry persists upon substitution of Z n2 + for C u2 + . Specific heat and magnetic susceptibility measurements of Zn-substituted barlowite, Z nxC u4 -x(OH) 6BrF , reveal striking similarities with the behavior of Z nxC u4 -x(OH) 6C l2 . These parallels imply universal behavior of copper kagomé lattices even in the presence of small symmetry-breaking distortions. Thus, synthetic barlowite demonstrates universality of the physics of synthetic C u2 + kagomé minerals and furthers the development of real QSL states.

[Impacts of early metoprolol intervention on connexin 43 and phosphorylated connexin 43 expression in rabbits with experimental myocardial infarction].

PubMed

Zhou, M; Lu, Q; Jiang, J Q; Chen, Z N; Gong, Z G; Li, Z G; Fu, W W; Ding, S F

2017-04-24

Objective: To investigate the early intervention effects of metoprolol on connexin 43(Cx43) and phosphorylated Cx43 (p-Cx43) expression in rabbits with post myocardial infarction. Methods: A total of 24 adult male New Zealand white rabbits were divided into sham group ( n =6), early treatment group( n =6), routine treatment group( n =6), and myocardial infarction group( n =6) with a randomized block design blocked by weight. Myocardial infarction was induced by left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) ligation. Rabbits in sham group received similar surgical procedure without LAD ligation. Metoprolol (12.5 mg/kg dissolved in 2 ml distilled water) was applied to rabbits in early treatment group and routine treatment group per gavage immediately after recovery from anesthesia and at 24 hours after myocardial infarction, respectively, then treated daily for 40 days. Rabbits in sham group and myocardial infarction group received 2 ml distilled water per gavage daily for 40 days. Plasma lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine kinase (CK) level were detected by automatic biochemistry analyzer after 6 hours in all rabbits. Ventricular fibrillation threshold (VFT) was measured in vivo by bipolar pacing electrodes at 40 days. Cx43 and p-Cx43 distribution in ventricular tissue was detected by immunofluorescence analyses. Cx43 and p-Cx43 protein level in ventricular tissue was determined by Western blot. Results: (1) Plasma LDH ((851.7±85.9)U/L vs. (332.3±39.6)U/L, P <0.01) and CK ((1 192.7±105.3)U/L vs. (462.3±65.6)U/L, P <0.01) were significantly higher in myocardial infarction group than in sham group (both P <0.01). (2) VFT was significantly lower in myocardial infarction group than that in sham group ((470.0±91.0) beats per minute vs. (683.3±60.9) beats per minute, P <0.05), and VFT was significantly higher in early treatment group ((633.3±43.2) beats per minute) and routine treatment group ((645.0±30.8) beats per minute) than in the myocardial infarction group (both P <0.05). (3) Immunofluorescence analyses showed that Cx43 was mainly localized in the intercalated disk, which was perpendicular to the cell long axis with linear arrangement, and less lateral distribution in sham group, early treatment group and routine treatment group, which was significantly different as the case in the myocardial infarction group. The expression of p-Cx43 in myocardial infarction group was less than in sham group, which was significantly upregulated in in early treatment group and routine treatment group when compared with myocardial infarction group, and expression of p-Cx43 was significantly higher in early treatment group than in routine treatment group. (4)The p-Cx43/Cx43 ratio of protein was significantly lower in myocardial infarction group than in sham group (0.165±0.011 vs. 0.363±0.046, P <0.05), and significantly higher in early treatment group (0.720±0.063) and routine treatment group (0.364±0.030) than in myocardial infarction group (both P <0.05), and this ratio was significantly higher in early treatment group than in routine treatment group ( P <0.05). Conclusion: Metoprolol treatment, especially the early metoprolol treatment (within 24 hours after LAD ligation), could significantly improve VFT by ameliorating the distribution and dephosphorylation of myocardial Cx43 in rabbits with experimental myocardial infarction.

Attrition in longitudinal randomized controlled trials: home visits make a difference.

PubMed

Peterson, Janey C; Pirraglia, Paul A; Wells, Martin T; Charlson, Mary E

2012-11-23

Participant attrition in longitudinal studies can introduce systematic bias, favoring participants who return for follow-up, and increase the likelihood that those with complications will be underestimated. Our aim was to examine the effectiveness of home follow-up (Home F/U) to complete the final study evaluation on potentially "lost" participants by: 1) evaluating the impact of including and excluding potentially "lost" participants (e.g., those who required Home F/U to complete the final evaluation) on the rates of study complications; 2) examining the relationship between timing and number of complications on the requirement for subsequent Home F/U; and 3) determining predictors of those who required Home F/U. We used data from a randomized controlled trial (RCT) conducted from 1991-1994 among coronary artery bypass graft surgery patients that investigated the effect of High mean arterial pressure (MAP) (intervention) vs. Low MAP (control) during cardiopulmonary bypass on 5 complications: cardiac morbidity/mortality, neurologic morbidity/mortality, all-cause mortality, neurocognitive dysfunction and functional decline. We enhanced completion of the final 6-month evaluation using Home F/U. Among 248 participants, 61 (25%) required Home F/U and the remaining 187 (75%) received Routine F/U. By employing Home F/U, we detected 11 additional complications at 6 months: 1 major neurologic complication, 6 cases of neurocognitive dysfunction and 4 cases of functional decline. Follow-up of 61 additional Home F/U participants enabled us to reach statistical significance on our main trial outcome. Specifically, the High MAP group had a significantly lower rate of the Combined Trial Outcome compared to the Low MAP group, 16.1% vs. 27.4% (p=0.032). In multivariate analysis, participants who were ≥ 75 years (OR=3.23, 95% CI 1.52-6.88, p=0.002) or on baseline diuretic therapy (OR=2.44, 95% CI 1.14-5.21, p=0.02) were more likely to require Home F/U. In addition, those in the Home F/U group were more likely to have sustained 2 or more complications (p=0.05). Home visits are an effective approach to reduce attrition and improve accuracy of study outcome reporting. Trial results may be influenced by this method of reducing attrition. Older participants, those with greater medical burden and those who sustain multiple complications are at higher risk for attrition.

Injuries in Portuguese Youth Soccer Players During Training and Match Play

PubMed Central

Brito, João; Malina, Robert M.; Seabra, André; Massada, José L.; Soares, José M.; Krustrup, Peter; Rebelo, António

2012-01-01

Context: Epidemiologic information on the incidence of youth soccer injuries in southern Europe is limited. Objective: To compare the incidence, type, location, and severity of injuries sustained by male subelite youth soccer players over the 2008–2009 season. Design: Descriptive epidemiology study. Setting: Twenty-eight Portuguese male youth soccer teams. Patients or Other Participants: A total of 674 youth male subelite soccer players in 4 age groups: 179 U-13 (age range, 11–12 years), 169 U-15 (age range, 13–14 years), 165 U-17 (age range, 15–16 years), and 161 U-19 (age range, 17–18 years). Main Outcome Measure(s): Injuries that led to participation time missed from training and match play prospectively reported by medical or coaching staff of the clubs. Results: In total, 199 injuries reported in 191 players accounted for 14.6 ± 13.0 days of absence from practice. The incidence was 1.2 injuries per 1000 hours of exposure to soccer (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.8, 1.6), with a 4.2-fold higher incidence during match play (4.7 injuries per 1000 hours of exposure; 95% CI = 3.0, 6.5) than during training (0.9 injuries per 1000 hours of exposure; 95% CI = 0.6, 1.3) (F1,673 = 17.592, P < .001). The overall incidence of injury did not increase with age (F1,673 = 1.299, P = .30), and the incidence of injury during matches (F1,673 = 2.037, P = .14) and training (F1,673 = 0.927, P = .44) did not differ among age groups. Collisions accounted for 57% (n = 113) of all injuries, but participation time missed due to traumatic injury did not differ among age groups (F3,110 = 1.044, P = .38). Most injuries (86%, n = 172) involved the lower extremity. The thigh was the most affected region (30%, n = 60) in all age groups. Muscle strains were the most common injuries among the U-19 (34%, n = 26), U-17 (30%, n = 17), and U-15 (34%, n = 14) age groups, whereas contusions and tendon injuries were the most common injuries in U-13 players (both 32%, n = 8). The relative risk of injury slightly increased with the age of the competitors. Conclusions: The higher incidence of injury during matches than training highlights the need for education and prevention programs in youth soccer. These programs should focus on coach education aimed at improving skills, techniques, and fair play during competitions with the goal of reducing injuries. PMID:22488285

Determination of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase cut-off values in a Tunisian population.

PubMed

Laouini, Naouel; Sahli, Chaima Abdelhafidh; Jouini, Latifa; Haloui, Sabrine; Fredj, Sondes Hadj; Daboubi, Rym; Siala, Hajer; Ouali, Faida; Becher, Meriam; Toumi, Nourelhouda; Bibi, Amina; Messsaoud, Taieb

2017-07-26

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is the commonest enzymopathy worldwide. The incidence depends essentially on the methods used for the assessment. In this respect, we attempted in this study to set cut-off values of G6PD activity to discriminate among normal, heterozygous, and deficient individuals using the World Health Organization (WHO) classification and the receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve analysis. Blood samples from 250 female and 302 male subjects were enrolled in this study. The G6PD activity was determined using a quantitative assay. The common G6PD mutations in Tunisia were determined using the amplification refractory mutation system (ARMS-PCR) method. The ROC curve was used to choice the best cut-off. Normal G6PD values were 7.69±2.37, 7.86±2.39, and 7.51±2.35 U/g Hb for the entire, male, and female groups, respectively. Cut-off values for the total, male, and female were determined using the WHO classification and ROC curves analysis. In the male population, both cut-offs established using ROC curve analysis (4.00 U/g Hb) and the 60% level (3.82 U/g Hb), respectively are sensitive and specific resulting in a good efficiency of discrimination between deficient and normal males. For the female group the ROC cut-off (5.84 U/g Hb) seems better than the 60% level cut-off (3.88 U/g Hb) to discriminate between normal and heterozygote or homozygote women with higher Youden Index. The establishment of the normal values for a population is important for a better evaluation of the assay result. The ROC curve analysis is an alternative method to determine the status of patients since it correlates DNA analysis and G6PD activity.

UTa 2O(S 2) 3Cl 6: A ribbon structure containing a heterobimetallic 5 d-5 f M 3 cluster

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wells, Daniel M.; Chan, George H.; Ellis, Donald E.; Ibers, James A.

2010-02-01

A new solid-state compound containing a heterobimetallic cluster of U and Ta, UTa 2O(S 2) 3Cl 6, has been synthesized and its structure has been characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction methods. UTa 2O(S 2) 3Cl 6 was synthesized from UCl 4 and Ta 1.2S 2 at 883 K. The O is believed to have originated in the Ta 1.2S 2 reactant. The compound crystallizes in the space group P1¯ of the triclinic system. The structure comprises a UTa 2 unit bridged by μ 2-S 2 and μ 3-O groups. Each Ta atom bonds to two μ 2-S 2, the μ 3-O, and two terminal Cl atoms. Each U atom bonds to two μ 2-S 2, the μ 3-O, and four Cl atoms. The Cl atoms bridge in pairs to neighboring U atoms to form a ribbon structure. The bond distances are normal and are consistent with formal oxidation states of +IV/+V/-II/-I/-I for U/Ta/O/S/Cl, respectively. The optical absorbance spectrum displays characteristic transition peaks near the absorption edge. Density functional theory was used to assign these peaks to transitions between S 1- valence-band states and empty U 5 f-6 d hybrid bands. Density-of-states analysis shows overlap between Ta 5 d and U bands, consistent with metal-metal interactions.

Liandratite from Karkonosze pegmatites, Sudetes, Southwestern Poland

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Matyszczak, Witold

2018-06-01

The chemical composition of liandratite, U6+(Nb,Ta)2O8, was determined from material collected in Niobium, Yttrium, Fluorine type (NYF) pegmatites of the Karkonosze intrusion (Sudetes, SW Poland). Liandratite occurs mainly as rims, up to 40 µm thick, and fracture infillings in fergusonite-(Y) and other Nb-Ta-Ti minerals. Its formation was related to the fluid-driven alteration of primary minerals by three potential mechanisms: (i) direct replacement of a primary mineral by liandratite; (ii) breakdown of the primary mineral to liandratite and a product with the composition of minerals of the pyrochlore group; (iii) multistage alteration, which involved: removal of A-site cations (mostly Y + REE with the exception of U4+) and formation of phases with the composition of pyrochlore group minerals; then crystallization of U-, Bi-, Pb-rich pyrochlores and their replacement by liandratite. The chemical compositions of liandratite formed by the breakdown of different primary minerals are also different, mainly in their U, Ti and Nb contents. Excess Ti, relative to the U6+Nb2O8 end-member, is incorporated into the structure together with additional U. The Ti content of liandratite, and partially through this the U content, are dependent on the nature of the precursor mineral.

The role of selenium in iodine metabolism in children with goiter.

PubMed Central

Zagrodzki, P; Szmigiel, H; Ratajczak, R; Szybinski, Z; Zachwieja, Z

2000-01-01

Possible interactions between selenium and iodine metabolism were investigated in 7- to 16-year-old children with goiter (n = 136) living in southeastern Poland in iodine-deficient areas influenced by a sulfur industry. The Se-iodine interactions in these children were compared to the interactions in children from outside of that region (n = 38). Blood selenium (BSe) concentration and plasma glutathione peroxidase activity were much lower in the study group (64.1 +/- 15.7 microg/L; 111.0 +/- 27.6 U/L) than in the control group (85.3 +/- 19.6 microg/L; 182.4 +/- 35.6 U/L). Almost all of the data [plasma thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) concentration, plasma free thyroxine (fT(4)) concentration] fell within the reference limits. There was no statistically significant difference between the control and the study groups with respect to fT(4) and TSH. However, statistically significant differences of fT(4) and TSH in the study group were revealed between females belonging to the lower (n = 21; fT(4), 16.1 +/- 3.3 pmol/L; TSH, 1.83 +/- 1.05 mU/L) and upper Se quartiles (n = 24; fT(4), 14.5 +/- 2.2 pmol/L; TSH, 1. 26 +/- 0.90 mU/L), p < 0.05. Neither group differed in iodine in urine concentration, age, and body mass index. The difference in fT(4) concentrations can be attributed to an Se deficiency. The relationship exists only for females, which suggests a sex-linked hormonal response to concomitant Se and iodine deficiencies. Images Figure 1 Figure 2 PMID:10620526

A randomized controlled pilot trial of modified whole blood versus component therapy in severely injured patients requiring large volume transfusions.

PubMed

Cotton, Bryan A; Podbielski, Jeanette; Camp, Elizabeth; Welch, Timothy; del Junco, Deborah; Bai, Yu; Hobbs, Rhonda; Scroggins, Jamie; Hartwell, Beth; Kozar, Rosemary A; Wade, Charles E; Holcomb, John B

2013-10-01

To determine whether resuscitation of severely injured patients with modified whole blood (mWB) resulted in fewer overall transfusions compared with component (COMP) therapy. For decades, whole blood (WB) was the primary product for resuscitating patients in hemorrhagic shock. After dramatic advances in blood banking in the 1970s, blood donor centers began supplying hospitals with individual components [red blood cell (RBC), plasma, platelets] and removed WB as an available product. However, no studies of efficacy or hemostatic potential in trauma patients were performed before doing so. Single-center, randomized trial of severely injured patients predicted to large transfusion volume. Pregnant patients, prisoners, those younger than 18 years or with more than 20% total body surface area burns (TBSA) burns were excluded. Patients were randomized to mWB (1 U mWB) or COMP therapy (1 U RBC+ 1 U plasma) immediately on arrival. Each group also received 1 U platelets (apheresis or prepooled random donor) for every 6 U of mWB or 6 U of RBC + 6 U plasma. The study was performed under the Exception From Informed Consent (Food and Drug Administration 21 code of federal regulations [CFR] 50.24). Primary outcome was 24-hour transfusion volumes. A total of 107 patients were randomized (55 mWB, 52 COMP therapy) over 14 months. There were no differences in demographics, arrival vitals or laboratory values, injury severity, or mechanism. Transfusions were similar between groups (intent-to-treat analysis). However, when excluding patients with severe brain injury (sensitivity analysis), WB group received less 24-hour RBC (median 3 vs 6, P = 0.02), plasma (4 vs 6, P = 0.02), platelets (0 vs 3, P = 0.09), and total products (11 vs 16, P = 0.02). Compared with COMP therapy, WB did not reduce transfusion volumes in severely injured patients predicted to receive massive transfusion. However, in the sensitivity analysis (patients without severe brain injuries), use of mWB significantly reduced transfusion volumes, achieving the prespecified endpoint of this initial pilot study.

Environmental contamination by Aspergillus spp. in laying hen farms and associated health risks for farm workers.

PubMed

Cafarchia, Claudia; Camarda, Antonio; Iatta, Roberta; Danesi, Patrizia; Favuzzi, Vincenza; Di Paola, Giancarlo; Pugliese, Nicola; Caroli, Anna; Montagna, Maria Teresa; Otranto, Domenico

2014-03-01

Data on the occurrence and epidemiology of Aspergillus spp. in laying hens farms are scant. With the aims of determining levels of airborne contamination in laying hen farms and evaluating the potential risk of infection for workers and animals, 57 air samples from 19 sheds (Group I), 69 from faeces (Group II), 19 from poultry feedstuffs (Group III) and 60 from three anatomical sites (i.e. nostrils, pharynx, ears) of 20 farm workers (Group IV) were cultured. The Aspergillus spp. prevalence in samples ranged from 31.6% (Group III) to 55.5% (Group IV), whereas the highest conidia concentration was retrieved in Group II (1.2 × 10(4) c.f.u. g(-1)) and in Group III (1.9 × 10(3) c.f.u. g(-1)). The mean concentration of airborne Aspergillus spp. conidia was 70 c.f.u. m(-3) with Aspergillus fumigatus (27.3%) being the most frequently detected species, followed by Aspergillus flavus (6.3%). These Aspergillus spp. were also isolated from human nostrils (40%) and ears (35%) (P<0.05) (Group IV). No clinical aspergillosis was diagnosed in hens. The results demonstrate a relationship between the environmental contamination in hen farms and presence of Aspergillus spp. on animals and humans. Even if the concentration of airborne Aspergillus spp. conidia (i.e. 70 c.f.u. m(-3)) herein detected does not trigger clinical disease in hens, it causes human colonization. Correct management of hen farms is necessary to control environmental contamination by Aspergillus spp., and could lead to a significant reduction of animal and human colonization.

Randomized trial of a comparison of the efficacy of TVT-O and single-incision tape TVT SECUR systems in the treatment of stress urinary incontinent women--2-year follow-up.

PubMed

Masata, Jaromir; Svabik, Kamil; Zvara, Karel; Drahoradova, Petra; El Haddad, Rachid; Hubka, Petr; Martan, Alois

2012-10-01

The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of the use of tension-free vaginal tape obturator (TVT-O) and single-incision TVT SECUR, hammock and U approach (TVT-S, H and U), in the treatment of urodynamic stress urinary incontinence (SUI). This single-center randomized three-arm trial compared the objective and subjective efficacy and early failure rate of the TVT-O and TVT-S H and U approach by objective criteria (cough test) and subjective criteria using the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire--Short Form (ICIQ-UI SF). The objective efficacy rate was defined as the number of patients with a negative cough stress test. Subjective cure was defined by no stress leakage of urine after surgery based on the evaluation of ICIQ-UI SH (when patients ticked "Never"/"Urine does not leak" in answer to question 6: When does urine leak?). Objective and subjective efficacy were evaluated using Last Failure Carried Forward analysis, i.e., final analysis also included patients with early failure. To describe outcome at different time points, the Last Observation Carried Forward method was also implemented. One hundred ninety-seven women with proven SUI were randomized into three groups--TVT-O (n = 68), TVT-S H (n = 64), and TVT-S U (n = 65). Each patient allocated to a treatment group received the planned surgery. There were no differences in each group in preoperative characteristics. Median follow-up after surgery was 2 years (SD, 0.8; range, 0.1 to 3.8 years). Of the subjects, 92.6% in the TVT-O group, 68.8% in the TVT-S H group, and 69.2% in the TVT-S U group had negative stress test (p < 0.001). Of the subjects, 85.3 % in the TVT-O group, 68.8% in the TVT-S H group, and 61.5% in the TVT-S U group were subjectively continent (p = 0.02). Our study demonstrated a significantly lower subjective and objective cure rate in the single-incision TVT group compared to the TVT-O group.

Effect of saw palmetto extract on PI3K cell signaling transduction in human glioma.

PubMed

Yang, Yang; Hui, Lv; Yuqin, Che; Jie, Li; Shuai, Hou; Tiezhu, Zhou; Wei, Wang

2014-08-01

Saw palmetto extract can induce the apoptosis of prostate cancer cells. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of saw palmetto extract on the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling transduction pathway in human glioma U87 and U251 cell lines. Suspensions of U87 and U251 cells in a logarithmic growth phase were seeded into six-well plates at a density of 10 4 cells/well. In the experimental group, 1 μl/ml saw palmetto extract was added, while the control group was cultured without a drug for 24 h. The expression levels of PI3K, B-cell lymphoma-extra large (Bcl-xL) and p53 were evaluated through western blot analysis. In the experimental group, the U87 and U251 cells exhibited a lower expression level of PI3K protein as compared with the control group (t=6.849; P<0.001). In addition, the two cell lines had a higher expression level of p53 protein in the experimental group as compared with the control group (t=40.810; P<0.001). Protein expression levels of Bcl-xL decreased significantly in the experimental group as compared with the control group (t=19.640; P=0.000). Therefore, saw palmetto extract induces glioma cell growth arrest and apoptosis via decreasing PI3K/Akt signal transduction.

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

Montemayor, Eric J.; Didychuk, Allison L.; Liao, Honghong

U6 small nuclear RNA (snRNA) is a key component of the active site of the spliceosome, a large ribonucleoprotein complex that catalyzes the splicing of precursor messenger RNA. Prior to its incorporation into the spliceosome, U6 is bound by the protein Prp24, which facilitates unwinding of the U6 internal stem-loop (ISL) so that it can pair with U4 snRNA. A previously reported crystal structure of the `core' of the U6 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (snRNP) contained an ISL-stabilized A62G mutant of U6 bound to all four RNA-recognition motif (RRM) domains of Prp24 [Montemayoret al.(2014),Nature Struct. Mol. Biol.21, 544–551]. The structure revealedmore » a novel topology containing interlocked rings of protein and RNA that was not predicted by prior biochemical and genetic data. Here, the crystal structure of the U6 snRNP core with a wild-type ISL is reported. This complex crystallized in a new space group, apparently owing in part to the presence of an intramolecular cross-link in RRM1 that was not observed in the previously reported U6-A62G structure. The structure exhibits the same protein–RNA interface and maintains the unique interlocked topology. However, the orientation of the wild-type ISL is altered relative to the A62G mutant structure, suggesting inherent structural dynamics that may facilitate its pairing with U4. Consistent with their similar architectures in the crystalline state, the wild-type and A62G variants of U6 exhibit similar Prp24-binding affinities and electrophoretic mobilities when analyzed by gel-shift assay.« less

First signs and symptoms of spondyloarthritis—data from an inception cohort with a disease course of two years or less (REGISPONSER-Early)

PubMed Central

Rojas-Vargas, Marena; Muñoz-Gomariz, Elisa; Escudero, Alejandro; Font, Pilar; Zarco, Pedro; Almodovar, Raquel; Gratacós, Jordi; Mulero, Juan; Juanola, Xavier; Montilla, Carlos; Moreno, Estefanía

2009-01-01

Objective. To determine the first signs and symptoms, and the clinical, biological and radiological characteristics of patients with early SpA. Methods. A total of 150 SpA patients were selected from 2367 listed in REGISPONSER (Registro Español de Espondiloartritis de la Sociedad Española de Reumatología). The inclusion criterion was a disease course of ⩽2 yrs from the onset of symptoms or the appearance of the first sign of disease. Results. Forty-six patients had AS, 51 psoriatic SpA (Ps-SpA), 43 uSpA, 5 ReA, 4 IBD arthropathy and 1 JCA. The mean age at onset of symptoms and at diagnosis was higher in Ps-SpA group (48.1 ± 13.6 and 48.5 ± 13.6 yrs) than in AS group (38.1 ± 12.8 and 38.9 ± 12.7 yrs) and uSpA group (36.3 ± 11.5 and 36.9 ± 11.4 yrs). The most frequent signs or symptoms were back pain: 72% AS group and 56% uSpA group. Lower limb arthritis was the first symptom in 57% Ps-SpA patients, 35% uSpA patients and 20% AS patients; upper limb arthritis was the first symptom in 53% Ps-SpA group and <16% of the remainder. Compared with longer duration disease, at onset, AS patients report upper limb arthritis more frequently and uSpA patients report more of enthesitis. Early radiological sacroiliitis was observed in all AS patients, of whom 54% had Grade II, 39% had Grade III and 7% had Grade IV. Conclusions. In our population, the first manifestations of SpA were low back pain and SI syndrome in AS and uSpA patients and peripheral arthritis in the Ps-SpA group. We can find early SI joint affectation in AS patients. PMID:19208685

Improvement of Modeling HTGR Neutron Physics by Uncertainty Analysis with the Use of Cross-Section Covariance Information

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boyarinov, V. F.; Grol, A. V.; Fomichenko, P. A.; Ternovykh, M. Yu

2017-01-01

This work is aimed at improvement of HTGR neutron physics design calculations by application of uncertainty analysis with the use of cross-section covariance information. Methodology and codes for preparation of multigroup libraries of covariance information for individual isotopes from the basic 44-group library of SCALE-6 code system were developed. A 69-group library of covariance information in a special format for main isotopes and elements typical for high temperature gas cooled reactors (HTGR) was generated. This library can be used for estimation of uncertainties, associated with nuclear data, in analysis of HTGR neutron physics with design codes. As an example, calculations of one-group cross-section uncertainties for fission and capture reactions for main isotopes of the MHTGR-350 benchmark, as well as uncertainties of the multiplication factor (k∞) for the MHTGR-350 fuel compact cell model and fuel block model were performed. These uncertainties were estimated by the developed technology with the use of WIMS-D code and modules of SCALE-6 code system, namely, by TSUNAMI, KENO-VI and SAMS. Eight most important reactions on isotopes for MHTGR-350 benchmark were identified, namely: 10B(capt), 238U(n,γ), ν5, 235U(n,γ), 238U(el), natC(el), 235U(fiss)-235U(n,γ), 235U(fiss).

Photocurable acrylic composition, and U.V. curing with development of U.V. absorber

DOEpatents

McKoy, Vincent B.; Gupta, Amitava

1992-01-01

In-situ development of an ultraviolet absorber is provided by a compound such as a hydroxy-phenyl-triazole containing a group which protects the absorber during actinically activated polymerization by light at first frequency. After polymerization the protective group is removed by actinic reaction at a second frequency lower than the first frequency. The protective group is formed by replacing the hydrogen of the hydroxyl group with an acyl group containing 1 to 3 carbon atoms or an acryloxy group of the formula: ##STR1## where R.sup.1 is either an alkyl containing 1 to 6 carbon atoms or --CH.dbd.CH.sub.2.

Weekly 24-hour continuous infusion interleukin-2 for metastatic melanoma and renal cell carcinoma: a phase I study.

PubMed

Perez, E A; Scudder, S A; Meyers, F A; Tanaka, M S; Paradise, C; Gandara, D R

1991-02-01

Twenty-nine patients with biopsy-confirmed metastatic melanoma (17) or metastatic renal cell carcinoma (12) were treated with escalating doses or recombinant human interleukin-2 (IL-2) administered as weekly 24-h intravenous infusions. Patients received from 3 to 12 x 10(6) C.U./m2 (18-72 x 10(6) I.U./m2) weekly over a treatment period of 1 to 16 weeks, with a median of eight weekly cycles administered. Patients in all treatment groups experienced non-life-threatening systemic side effects consisting of fever, nausea, vomiting, fluid retention, and diarrhea. Grade III hypotension was seen in four of six patients (67%) at 12 x 10(6) C.U./m2, and represented the dose-limiting toxicity. Grade IV hypotension occurred in 1 of 14 patients at 6 x 10(6) C.U./m2; no other grade IV toxicities were observed. Grade III fever occurred in 3 of 11 patients (27%) treated at 3 x 10(6) C.U./m2, 3 of 14 patients (21%) at 6 x 10(6) C.U./m2, and 3 of 6 patients (50%) at 9 x 10(6) C.U./m2. An objective response was observed in 3 of 28 evaluable patients (10%): 1 complete response and 1 partial response in renal cell cancer, and 1 partial response in a melanoma patient. We conclude that for future studies, the recommended dose of IL-2 given as a weekly 24-h infusion is 9 x 10(6) C.U./m2 and that a low rate of objective tumor response can be obtained in patients with melanoma and renal cell carcinoma using this regimen.

Dietary sodium and potassium intake were associated with hypertension, kidney damage and adverse perinatal outcome in pregnant women with preeclampsia.

PubMed

Yılmaz, Zehra Vural; Akkaş, Elif; Türkmen, Gülenay Gençosmanoğlu; Kara, Özgür; Yücel, Aykan; Uygur, Dilek

2017-02-01

In this study, we hypothesized that dietary salt and potassium intake may be related with blood pressure, kidney damage and perinatal outcome in pregnants with preeclampsia (PE). In total, 200 women (50 control women with healthy pregnancy, 150 women with PE) were recruited for the study. Daily salt and potassium intake was estimated based on calculation of 24-hour urinary sodium U[Na+] and potassium U[K+] excretion. U[Na+]/[K+] was calculated by dividing U[Na+] by U[K+]. At the end of the measurements, the pregnant women with PE (n=150) were divided into tertiles according to U[Na+]/[K+]: low Na/K group (n=50, mean U[Na+]/[K+]: 1,04±0,32), medium Na/K group (n=50, mean U[Na+]/[K+]: 2,49± 0,54), high Na/K group (n=50, mean U[Na+]/[K+]: 6,62±3,41). The mean SBP and DBP levels were significantly lower in low Na/K group compared with medium or high Na/K groups (p=0.024, p=0.0002; respectively). Serum creatinine was significantly lower in low Na/K group than high Na/K group (p=0.025). Frequency of severe preeclampsia is lower in low Na/K group than medium or high Na/K groups (p=0.002, p=0.0001; respectively). Birth weight and gestational age at birth were higher in low Na/K group compared with high Na/K group (p=0.045, p=0.0002; respectively). After adjusting for covariates, SBP and DBP and creatinine levels were independently associated with 24 hours urinary [Na+]/[K+] Conclusion: These findings suggest that pregnant with PE with high dietary salt and low potassium intake may have greater maternal and neonatal morbidity risk than pregnant with PE under low dietary salt and high potassium intake.

Effect of montelukast monotherapy on oxidative stress parameters and DNA damage in children with asthma.

PubMed

Dilek, Fatih; Ozkaya, Emin; Kocyigit, Abdurrahim; Yazici, Mebrure; Kesgin, Siddika; Gedik, Ahmet Hakan; Cakir, Erkan

2015-01-01

There is ample knowledge reported in the literature about the role of oxidative stress in asthma pathogenesis. It is also known that the interaction of reactive oxygen species with DNA may result in DNA strand breaks. The aim of this study was to investigate if montelukast monotherapy affects oxidative stress and DNA damage parameters in a population of pediatric asthma patients. Group I consisted of 31 newly diagnosed asthmatic patients not taking any medication, and group II consisted of 32 patients who had been treated with montelukast for at least 6 months. Forty healthy control subjects were also enrolled in the study. Plasma total oxidant status (TOS) and total antioxidant status (TAS) were measured to assess oxidative stress. DNA damage was assessed by means of alkaline comet assay. The patients in both group I and group II had statistically significant higher plasma TOS (13.1 ± 4 and 11.1 ± 4.1 μmol H2O2 equivalent/liter, respectively) and low TAS levels (1.4 ± 0.5 and 1.5 ± 0.5 mmol Trolox equivalent/liter, respectively) compared with the control group (TOS: 6.3 ± 3.5 μmol H2O2 equivalent/liter and TAS: 2.7 ± 0.6 mmol Trolox equivalent/liter; p < 0.05). DNA damage was 18.2 ± 1.0 arbitrary units (a.u.) in group I, 16.7 ± 8.2 a.u. in group II and 13.7 ± 3.4 a.u. in the control group. There were statistically significant differences only between group I and the control group (p < 0.05). According to the findings, montelukast therapy makes only minimal but not statistically significant improvement in all TOS, TAS and DNA damage parameters. © 2015 S. Karger AG, Basel.

UTa{sub 2}O(S{sub 2}){sub 3}Cl{sub 6}: A ribbon structure containing a heterobimetallic 5d-5f M{sub 3} cluster

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

Wells, Daniel M.; Chan, George H.; Ellis, Donald E.

2010-02-15

A new solid-state compound containing a heterobimetallic cluster of U and Ta, UTa{sub 2}O(S{sub 2}){sub 3}Cl{sub 6}, has been synthesized and its structure has been characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction methods. UTa{sub 2}O(S{sub 2}){sub 3}Cl{sub 6} was synthesized from UCl{sub 4} and Ta{sub 1.2}S{sub 2} at 883 K. The O is believed to have originated in the Ta{sub 1.2}S{sub 2} reactant. The compound crystallizes in the space group P1-bar of the triclinic system. The structure comprises a UTa{sub 2} unit bridged by mu{sub 2}-S{sub 2} and mu{sub 3}-O groups. Each Ta atom bonds to two mu{sub 2}-S{sub 2}, the mu{submore » 3}-O, and two terminal Cl atoms. Each U atom bonds to two mu{sub 2}-S{sub 2}, the mu{sub 3}-O, and four Cl atoms. The Cl atoms bridge in pairs to neighboring U atoms to form a ribbon structure. The bond distances are normal and are consistent with formal oxidation states of +IV/+V/-II/-I/-I for U/Ta/O/S/Cl, respectively. The optical absorbance spectrum displays characteristic transition peaks near the absorption edge. Density functional theory was used to assign these peaks to transitions between S{sup 1-} valence-band states and empty U 5f-6d hybrid bands. Density-of-states analysis shows overlap between Ta 5d and U bands, consistent with metal-metal interactions. - The UTa2O(S2)3Cl6 cluster with completed coordination sphere around uranium« less

INSULIN GLARGINE 300 U/ML IS ASSOCIATED WITH LESS WEIGHT GAIN WHILE MAINTAINING GLYCEMIC CONTROL AND LOW RISK OF HYPOGLYCEMIA COMPARED WITH INSULIN GLARGINE 100 U/ML IN AN AGING POPULATION WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES.

PubMed

Munshi, Medha N; Gill, Jasvinder; Chao, Jason; Nikonova, Elena V; Patel, Meenakshi

2018-02-01

Assess efficacy, hypoglycemia, and weight gain in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) treated with insulin glargine 300 U/mL (Gla-300) or 100 U/mL (Gla-100) across different age groups. Pooled data were generated for patients randomized to Gla-300 or Gla-100 in the EDITION 2 (NCT01499095) and 3 (NCT01676220) studies. In 4 age groups (<55, ≥55 to <60, ≥60 to <65, ≥65 years), glycated hemoglobin A1C (A1C), percentage of patients reaching A1C <7.5% (58 mmol/mol), weight change, confirmed hypoglycemia (blood glucose ≤70 mg/dL), and/or severe hypoglycemia (events requiring third-party assistance) were analyzed with descriptive statistics and logistic, binomial, and analysis of covariance regression modeling. A1C reductions from baseline and proportions of patients at target were similar for Gla-300 and Gla-100 across all age groups at 6 and 12 months, but hypoglycemia incidence and event rate were lower with Gla-300 at 6 (both P<.001) and 12 months ( P<.001 and P = .005, respectively). Patients on Gla-300 gained less weight than those on Gla-100 at 6 ( P = .027) and 12 months ( P = .021). Changes in weight and daily weight-adjusted insulin dose decreased with increasing age at 6 ( P<.001 and P = .017, respectively) and 12 months ( P<.001 and P = .011, respectively). Older patients with T2D may benefit from treatment with Gla-300, which is associated with a lower hypoglycemia rate and less weight gain with similar efficacy compared with Gla-100. A1C = glycated hemoglobin A1C BMI = body mass index Gla-100 = insulin glargine 100 U/mL Gla-300 = insulin glargine 300 U/mL OAD = oral antidiabetes drug T2D = type 2 diabetes.

Intra-laboratory study to determine the reproducibility of LLNA:BrdU-ELISA for the prediction of the skin sensitizing potential of chemicals.

PubMed

Chen, Wei; Xing, Caihong; Hou, Fenxia

The Local Lymph Node Assay (LLNA) has been designated as the first-choice in vivo assay for identification the skin sensitization potential of new chemicals. The LLNA:BrdU-ELISA is a validated non-radioactive modification to the LLNA. An intra-laboratory reproducibility study for the LLNA:BrdU-ELISA was conducted to demonstrate its adequate performance in our laboratory. Ten independent LLNA:BrdU-ELISAs with the preferred positive controls (PCs), i.e., 25% hexyl cinnamic aldehyde (HCA) and 25% eugenol, were conducted within a period of less than one year. In addition, different concentrations of 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB, an extreme sensitizer) (0.01, 0.1 and 0.3%), HCA (10, 25 and 50%) and eugenol (10, 25 and 50%), were tested to determine the EC1.6 values. Special Pathogen Free female CBA/J mice of 8-10weeks old were randomly allocated to the groups, each group having 4 mice. 25μl of AOO (vehicle, acetone: olive oil=4:1, v/v) or HCA, eugenol, DNCB at the needed concentration was applied to the dorsum of each ear of the mice, daily for 3 consecutive days. A single intraperitoneal injection of 0.5ml of BrdU solution (10mg/ml) was given on day 5. On day 6, a pair of auricular lymph nodes from each mouse was excised, and BrdU ELISA analysis was conducted. The result for each group is expressed as the mean Stimulation Index (SI). The mean of the 10 mean SIs for 25% HCA (2.58±0.95) and 25% eugenol (3.51±1.25) was not significantly different to that from the Interagency Coordinating Committee on the Validation of Alternative Methods (ICCVAM) (i.e., the data on the formal validation study for the LLNA:BrdU-ELISA by the ICCVAM) (3.03±2.00 for 25% HCA, 6.13±6.06 for 25% eugenol) (P>0.05), with even smaller Coefficient of Variations (CV) (36.8% for 25% HCA, 35.6% for 25% eugenol) than that from the ICCVAM (66.0% for 25% HCA, 98.8% for 25% eugenol). In addition, the EC1.6 values for HCA, eugenol and DNCB (15.2, 12.5 and 0.25%, respectively) were consistent with that from the ICCVAM (12.92, 8.85 and 0.34%, respectively). The results indicate that the reliability for our laboratory to conduct the LLNA:BrdU-ELISA is successfully determined. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Retrospective Comparison of Visual Outcomes After KAMRA Corneal Inlay Implantation With Simultaneous PRK or LASIK.

PubMed

Moshirfar, Majid; Bean, Andrew E; Albarracin, Julio C; Rebenitsch, Ronald L; Wallace, Ryan T; Birdsong, Orry C

2018-05-01

To report a retrospective study of simultaneous LASIK versus photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) with accompanying small-aperture cornea inlay implantation (KAMRA; AcuFocus, Inc., Irvine, CA) in treating presbyopia. Simultaneous LASIK/inlay and simultaneous PRK/inlay was performed on 79 and 47 patients, respectively. Follow-up examinations were conducted at 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively. The main outcome measures were safety, efficacy, predictability, and stability with primary emphasis on monocular uncorrected near visual acuity (UNVA). Both groups met U.S. Food and Drug Administration criteria for efficacy with 95% and 55% of the LASIK/inlay group and 83% and 52% of the PRK/inlay group having a monocular UNVA of 20/40 (J5) and 20/25 (J2), respectively, at 6-month follow-up. Ninety-two percent of the LASIK/inlay group and 95% of the PRK/inlay group had a UDVA of 20/40 or better at 6 months. Two eyes lost one line of corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA). Mild hyperopic shift was noted in both groups at 6 months. Simultaneous PRK/inlay and LASIK/inlay meet the U.S. Food and Drug Administration standards for efficacy and safety based on 6-month preliminary results and have similar outcomes to emmetropic eyes. [J Refract Surg. 2018;34(5):310-315.]. Copyright 2018, SLACK Incorporated.

Effects of infrasound on cell proliferation in the dentate gyrus of adult rats.

PubMed

Liu, Juanfang; Lin, Tian; Yan, Xiaodong; Jiang, Wen; Shi, Ming; Ye, Ruidong; Rao, Zhiren; Zhao, Gang

2010-06-02

Adult rats were used to identify the effects of infrasound on neurogenesis in the hippocampal dentate gyrus. After 7 consecutive days' exposure to infrasound of 16 Hz at 130 dB, immunostaining of 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU) and doublecortin (DCX) was preformed. Compared with those in normal groups, the numbers of BrdU+ and DCX+/BrdU+ cells in the subgranular zone in infrasound groups were significantly decreased at 3, 6, 10 and 14 days and returned to normal at 18 days. The percentage of BrdU+ cells that were co-labeled with DCX showed no significant differences between the infrasound and normal groups. These data suggest that infrasound inhibits the cell proliferation in adult rat dentate gyrus but has no effects on early migration and differentiation of these newborn cells.

MtDNA profile of West Africa Guineans: towards a better understanding of the Senegambia region.

PubMed

Rosa, Alexandra; Brehm, António; Kivisild, Toomas; Metspalu, Ene; Villems, Richard

2004-07-01

The matrilineal genetic composition of 372 samples from the Republic of Guiné-Bissau (West African coast) was studied using RFLPs and partial sequencing of the mtDNA control and coding region. The majority of the mtDNA lineages of Guineans (94%) belong to West African specific sub-clusters of L0-L3 haplogroups. A new L3 sub-cluster (L3h) that is found in both eastern and western Africa is present at moderately low frequencies in Guinean populations. A non-random distribution of haplogroups U5 in the Fula group, the U6 among the "Brame" linguistic family and M1 in the Balanta-Djola group, suggests a correlation between the genetic and linguistic affiliation of Guinean populations. The presence of M1 in Balanta populations supports the earlier suggestion of their Sudanese origin. Haplogroups U5 and U6, on the other hand, were found to be restricted to populations that are thought to represent the descendants of a southern expansion of Berbers. Particular haplotypes, found almost exclusively in East-African populations, were found in some ethnic groups with an oral tradition claiming Sudanese origin.

Effects of cross-training on markers of insulin resistance/hyperinsulinemia.

PubMed

Wallace, M B; Mills, B D; Browning, C L

1997-09-01

This study examined, through a randomized controlled trial, the effects of cross-training (combined resistance and endurance exercise) on markers of insulin resistance, (e.g., dyslipidemia, intra-abdominal obesity, hyperinsulinemia, and hypertension), body composition, and performance in hyperinsulinemic individuals. Sedentary adult males characterized as hyperinsulinemic (fasting insulin > 2 OuU.mL-1), randomly assigned to two groups (N = 8 each), completed 14 wk of training at 3 d.wk-1. An endurance-only (E) group performed both continuous cycle exercise and walking (30 min each at 60-70% heart rate reserve). A cross-training (C) group performed both endurance and resistance exercise (8 exercises, 4 sets/exercise, 8-12 repetitions/set) in a single session. Both E and C groups demonstrated similar increases in VO2max (25% and 27%) while only C demonstrated an increase in 1 RM bench press (19%) and leg press (25%). The changes induced by C training were significantly greater than those from E training alone in percent fat (6.9 +/- 1.3 vs 1.4 +/- 1.4), insulin concentration (8.5 +/- 2.7 vs 3.0 +/- 1.3 uU.mL-1), glucose levels (11.1 +/- 2.9 vs 5.9 +/- 2.6 mg.dL-1), HDL-C levels (5.1 +/- 1.3 vs 2.9 +/- 1.6 mg.dL-1), triglyceride concentration (43.8 +/- 13.6 mg.dL-1), and systolic blood pressure (14.6 +/- 5.5 vs 8.3 +/- 6.8 mm Hg). Results indicate that the addition of resistance training to an endurance training program will induce significantly greater differences in markers of insulin resistance and body composition in individuals with hyperinsulinemia than endurance training alone.

Effect of saw palmetto extract on PI3K cell signaling transduction in human glioma

PubMed Central

YANG, YANG; HUI, LV; YUQIN, CHE; JIE, LI; SHUAI, HOU; TIEZHU, ZHOU; WEI, WANG

2014-01-01

Saw palmetto extract can induce the apoptosis of prostate cancer cells. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of saw palmetto extract on the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling transduction pathway in human glioma U87 and U251 cell lines. Suspensions of U87 and U251 cells in a logarithmic growth phase were seeded into six-well plates at a density of 104 cells/well. In the experimental group, 1 μl/ml saw palmetto extract was added, while the control group was cultured without a drug for 24 h. The expression levels of PI3K, B-cell lymphoma-extra large (Bcl-xL) and p53 were evaluated through western blot analysis. In the experimental group, the U87 and U251 cells exhibited a lower expression level of PI3K protein as compared with the control group (t=6.849; P<0.001). In addition, the two cell lines had a higher expression level of p53 protein in the experimental group as compared with the control group (t=40.810; P<0.001). Protein expression levels of Bcl-xL decreased significantly in the experimental group as compared with the control group (t=19.640; P=0.000). Therefore, saw palmetto extract induces glioma cell growth arrest and apoptosis via decreasing PI3K/Akt signal transduction. PMID:25009620

Physical Demands of Representative Match-Play in Adolescent Rugby Union.

PubMed

Read, Dale B; Jones, Ben; Phibbs, Padraic J; Roe, Gregory A B; Darrall-Jones, Joshua D; Weakley, Jonathon J S; Till, Kevin

2017-05-01

Read, DB, Jones, B, Phibbs, PJ, Roe, GAB, Darrall-Jones, J, Weakley, JJS, and Till, K. Physical demands of representative match-play in adolescent rugby union. J Strength Cond Res 31(5): 1290-1296, 2017-The purpose of this study was to quantify the physical demands of representative adolescent rugby union match-play and investigate the difference between playing positions and age groups. Players (n = 112) were classified into 6 groups by playing position (forwards and backs) and age group (U16, U18, and U20). The physical demands were measured using microsensor-based technology and analyzed using magnitude-based inferences to assess practical importance. Backs had a greater relative distance (except U16s) and a greater high-speed running distance per minute than forwards, with the magnitude of difference between the positions becoming larger in older age groups. Forwards had higher values of PlayerLoad (PL) per minute (accumulated accelerations from the 3 axes of movement) and PL slow per minute (accumulated accelerations from the 3 axes of movement where velocity is <2 m·s) than backs at all age groups. Relative distance, low-, and high-speed running per minute all had a trend to be lower in older age groups for both positions. PlayerLoad per minute was greater in U18 than that in U16 and U20 for both positions. PlayerLoad slow per minute was greater for older age groups besides the U18 and U20 comparisons, which were unclear. The contrasts in physical demands experienced by different positions reinforce the need for greater exposure to sprinting and collision-based activity for backs and forwards, respectively. Given PL metrics peak at U18 and locomotor demands seem to be lower in older ages, the demands of representative adolescent rugby union do not seem to be greater at U20 as expected.

Photocurable acrylic composition, and U. V. curing with development of U. V. absorber

DOEpatents

McKoy, V.B.; Gupta, A.

1992-08-25

In-situ development of an ultraviolet absorber is provided by a compound such as a hydroxy-phenyl-triazole containing a group which protects the absorber during actinically activated polymerization by light at first frequency. After polymerization the protective group is removed by actinic reaction at a second frequency lower than the first frequency. The protective group is formed by replacing the hydrogen of the hydroxyl group with an acyl group containing 1 to 3 carbon atoms or an acryloxy group of the formula shown in a figure where R[sup 1] is either an alkyl containing 1 to 6 carbon atoms or --CH[double bond]CH[sub 2]. 2 figs.

Persistent HyperCKemia in Athletes

PubMed Central

Brancaccio, Paola; Maffulli, Nicola; Politano, Luisa; Lippi, Giuseppe; Limongelli, Francesco Mario

2011-01-01

Summary We compared the effects of exercise on serum levels of creatin kinase (CK) in athletes with persistent hyperCKemia at rest (CK group) and in healthy athletes (control group). Prospective controlled study. Eighteen male Caucasian athletes with high serum CK levels at rest (CK between 80 and 150 U/L) and 25 male Caucasian athletes with normal serum CK levels at rest (CK between 10 and 80 U/L) Main Outcome Measures Blood samples were collected at rest, 30 minutes, 6 hours, 24 hours, 48 hours and 72 hours after a progressive cycloergometer test to exhaustion. The levels of serum CK and its isoenzymes were measured. In the control group, serum CK values at rest were normal (48.18 ± 14.14 U/L). After exercise, they increased slightly, though they always remained <80 U/L, decreasing to the rest level after 48 hours. The CK group had serum CK levels at rest higher than normal (116.56 ± 33.30 U/L). Serum CK levels were still outwith the normal range after 48 hours (130.11 ± 46.95 U/L) and 72 hours (116.55 ± 24.84 U/L). Serum CK levels were significantly different in both groups both before and after progressive cycloergometer test to exhaustion. In athletes with high serum CK levels at rest, serum CK levels remained elevated and had a different kinetics after exercise when compared with healthy athletes. PMID:23738242

Ammonia IRMS-TPD measurements and DFT calculation on acidic hydroxyl groups in CHA-type zeolites.

PubMed

Suzuki, Katsuki; Sastre, German; Katada, Naonobu; Niwa, Miki

2007-12-07

Brønsted acidity of H-chabazite (CHA) zeolites (Si : Al(2) = 4.2) was investigated by means of ammonia infrared-mass spectrometry/temperature-programmed desorption (IRMS-TPD) methods and density functional calculations. Four IR bands were observed at 3644, 3616, 3575 and 3538 cm(-1), and they were ascribable to the acidic OH groups on four nonequivalent oxygen sites in the CHA structure. The absorption band at 3538 cm(-1) was attributed to the O(4)H in the 6-membered ring (MR), and ammonia adsorption energy (DeltaU) of this OH group was the lowest among the 4 kinds of OH groups. The other 3 bands were assigned to the acidic OH groups in 8MR. It was observed that the DeltaU in 8 and 6MR were 131 (+/-3) and 101 kJ mol(-1), respectively. On the other hand, the density functional theory (DFT) calculations within periodic boundary conditions yielded the adsorption energies on these OH groups in 8 and 6MR to be ca. 130 and 110 kJ mol(-1), respectively, in good agreement with the experimentally-observed values.

Explosives Instrumentation Group Trial 6/77-Propellant Fire Trials (Series Two).

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-10-01

frames/s. A 19 mm Sony U-Matic video cassette recorder (VCR) and camera were used to view the hearth from a tower 100 m from ground-zero (GZ). Normal...camera started. This procedure permitted increased recording time of the event. A 19 mm Sony U-Matic VCR and camera was used to view the container...Lumpur, Malaysia Exchange Section, British Library, U.K. Periodicals Recording Section, Science Reference Library, British Library, U.K. Library, Chemical

Diagnostic accuracy of urinary biomarkers in infants younger than 3 months with urinary tract infection

PubMed Central

Jung, Nani; Byun, Hye Jin; Park, Jae Hyun; Kim, Joon Sik; Kim, Hae Won

2018-01-01

Purpose The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of urinary biomarkers, such as neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (uNGAL) and β-2 microglobulin (uB2MG), in early detection of urinary tract infection (UTI) in infants aged <3 months with fever. Methods A total of 422 infants aged <3 months (male:female=267:155; mean age, 56.4 days), who were admitted for fever, were retrospectively included in this study. We compared uNGAL and uB2MG between the UTI and non-UTI groups at the time of admission. The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and area under the curve (AUC) of uNGAL and uB2MG for use in diagnosing UTI were assessed. Results Among 422 patients, 102 (24.2%) were diagnosed with UTI. Levels of uNGAL were higher in the UTI group than in the non-UTI group (366.6 ng/mL vs. 26.9 ng/mL, P<0.001). Levels of uB2MG were not different between the 2 groups. Multivariate analysis revealed that uNGAL was an independent predictive factor for UTI (P=0.033). The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were 90.2%, 92.5%, and 91.9% for uNGAL, and 48.0%, 43.8%, and 44.8% for uB2MG, respectively. AUC of uNGAL was 0.942 and that of uB2MG was 0.407. Conclusion Accuracy of uNGAL in the diagnosis of UTI is high in febrile infants aged <3 months. uNGAL can help in the early diagnosis and treatment of UTI in infants. PMID:29441109

Disparities in undiagnosed diabetes among United States-Mexico border populations.

PubMed

Stoddard, Pamela; He, Guozhong; Vijayaraghavan, Maya; Schillinger, Dean

2010-09-01

To compare the prevalence of undiagnosed diabetes among populations with diabetes living on the United States (U.S.)-Mexico border, examine explanations for differences between groups, and investigate differences in metabolic outcomes by diagnosis status. Data come from the U.S.-Mexico Border Diabetes Prevention and Control Project survey (2001-2002), which used a stratified, multistage design. The sample included 603 adults (18 years or older) with diabetes. Undiagnosed diabetes was defined as a fasting plasma glucose (FPG) value of ≥ 126 mg/dL and no report of diagnosis. Logistic regression was used to compare the odds of being undiagnosed among border populations with diabetes. Metabolic outcomes included FPG, glycosylated hemoglobin, and mean arterial blood pressure. One in four adults with diabetes (25.9%) living on the U.S.-Mexico border was undiagnosed. Mexicans (43.8%) and Mexican immigrants (39.0%) with diabetes were significantly more likely to be undiagnosed than were U.S.-born Hispanics (15.0%; P < 0.05 for either comparison) or non-Hispanic whites (6.6%; P < 0.001 for either comparison). Mexicans were more likely to be undiagnosed than were all U.S. adults (14.7%; P < 0.001) with diabetes. Significant differences in the likelihood of being undiagnosed remained between all groups with diabetes after adjustment for sociodemographic and healthcare-related covariates, with the exception of that between Mexicans and U.S.-born Hispanics. Worse metabolic control and potentially greater benefits of diagnosis for control were observed for Mexicans in particular compared with U.S. groups with undiagnosed diabetes. Efforts to improve diabetes diagnosis should concentrate on Mexican and Mexican immigrant populations on the U.S.-Mexico border.

Lack of Substantial Post-Cessation Weight Increase in Electronic Cigarettes Users.

PubMed

Russo, Cristina; Cibella, Fabio; Mondati, Enrico; Caponnetto, Pasquale; Frazzetto, Evelise; Caruso, Massimo; Caci, Grazia; Polosa, Riccardo

2018-03-23

Minimization of post-cessation weight gain in quitters is important, but existing approaches (e.g., antismoking medications) shows only limited success. We investigated changes in body weight in smokers who quit or reduced substantially their cigarette consumption by switching to electronic cigarettes (ECs) use. Body weight and smoking/vaping history were extracted from medical records of smokers and ex-smokers to match three study groups: (1) regular EC users on at least two consecutive follow-up visits; (2) regular smokers (and not using ECs); (3) subjects who reported sustained smoking abstinence after completing a cessation program. Review of their medical records was conducted at two follow-up visits at 6- (F/U 6m) and 12-months (F/U 12m). A total of 86 EC users, 93 regular smokers, and 44 quitters were studied. In the EC users study group, cigarettes/day use decreased from 21.1 at baseline to 1.8 at F/U 12m ( p < 0.0001). Dual usage was reported by approximately 50% of EC users. Both within factor (time, p < 0.0001) and between factor (study groups, p < 0.0001) produced significant effect on weight (% change from baseline), with a significant 4.8% weight gain from baseline in the quitters study group at F/U 12m. For the EC users, weight gain at F/U 12m was only 1.5% of baseline. There was no evidence of post-cessation weight increase in those who reduced substantially cigarette consumption by switching to ECs (i.e., dual users) and only modest post-cessation weight increase was reported in exclusive EC users at F/U 12m. By reducing weight gain and tobacco consumption, EC-based interventions may promote an overall improvement in quality of life.

Serum gamma-glutamyltransferase activity is increased in patients with calcific aortic valve stenosis.

PubMed

Bozbas, Huseyin; Yildirir, Aylin; Demir, Ozlem; Cakmak, Abdulkadir; Karacaglar, Emir; Yilmaz, Mustafa; Eroglu, Serpil; Pirat, Bahar; Ozin, Bulent; Muderrisoglu, Haldun

2008-07-01

A growing body of data indicates an independent association between serum gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) activity, a marker of increased oxidative stress, and cardiovascular diseases. The process of calcific aortic valve disease has been shown to present characteristics of atherosclerosis. The study aim was to evaluate the possible role of serum GGT in patients with calcific aortic valve disease. The results of patients' echocardiography studies from 2005 for the presence of calcific aortic valve disease in the forms of aortic stenosis (AS) and aortic valve calcification (AVC) without significant valve stenosis, were retrospectively evaluated. Age-and gender-matched patients with normal aortic valve morphology were selected at random as a control group. A total of 383 patients was enrolled into the study (126 with AS, 133 with AVC, 124 controls). Serum GGT activity, along with other liver enzyme analyses and laboratory results, were determined and compared among the groups. Age, gender and clinical and laboratory results were similar among the three groups. Median serum GGT levels in the AS, AVC and control groups were 23.0 U/1 (mean 31.5 +/- 24.9 U/1), 22.0 U/1 (mean 27.6 +/- 18.6 U/) and 18.0 U/l (mean 22.4 +/- 16.4 U/l), respectively. Compared to controls, AS patients had significantly higher serum GGT and C-reactive protein levels, while the differences between AVC patients and controls for these parameters were not significant. The study results suggest that serum GGT activity is increased in patients with calcific AS. These increases seem to occur in advanced rather than milder forms of calcific aortic valve disease.

Weak and Failing States: Evolving Security Threats and U.S. Policy

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-11-15

operate in both “ caves ” (i.e., failed states, where militant groups can exist CRS-6 11 Rabasa (2007), ibid. 12 U.S. Government Interagency Working Group...Support to Low-Income Countries Under Stress (Washington, DC: The World Bank, 2006); Chauvet and Collier, “Helping Hand? Aid to Failing States...Oxford University Working Paper (2006). 24 See Chauvet and Collier (2004), op. cit.; Francois Bourguignon, “Broadening Progress Toward the MDGs,” Speech

Weak and Failing States: Evolving Security Threats and U.S. Policy

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-11-15

operate in both “ caves ” (i.e., failed states, where militant groups can exist CRS-6 11 Rabasa (2007), ibid. 12 U.S. Government Interagency Working Group...Support to Low-Income Countries Under Stress (Washington, DC: The World Bank, 2006); Chauvet and Collier, “Helping Hand? Aid to Failing States,” Oxford...University Working Paper (2006). 24 See Chauvet and Collier (2004), op. cit.; Francois Bourguignon, “Broadening Progress Toward the MDGs,” Speech

Effect of thyrotropin-releasing factor on serum thyroid-stimulating hormone

PubMed Central

Costom, Bruce H.; Grumbach, Melvin M.; Kaplan, Selna L.

1971-01-01

To test the hypothesis that the primary defect in some patients with idiopathic hypopituitary dwarfism is failure to secrete hypothalamic hypophysiotropic-releasing factors, synthetic thyrotropin-releasing factor (TRF), 500 μg, wa given intravenously, and timed venous samples obtained for determination of the concentration of plasma TSH by radioimmunoassay in three groups of subjects: (a) 11 patients without evidence of endocrine or systemic disease, (group I) (b) 8 with isolated growth hormone deficiency and normal thyroid function, (group II) and (c) 9 patients with idiopathic hypopituitary dwarfism and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) deficiency (group III). The mean fasting plasma TSH value was 4.1 μU/ml in group I, and 3.9 μU/ml in group II; in both groups there was a brisk rise in plasma TSH to peak levels of 12-45 μU/ml at 30-45 min, and a fall toward base line levels at 120 min. All children in group III had basal TSH levels of < 1.5 μU/ml; one failed to respond to TRF; eight exhibited a rise in plasma TSH with peak values comparable with those in groups I and II. In four of eight children in group III who responded to TRF, the TSH response was delayed and the initial rise in plasma TSH was not detectable until 10-60 min. In these four patients, plasma TSH levels continued to rise at 120 min. The mean fasting concentration of plasma thyroxine iodide (T4) in subjects with normal thyroid function (groups I and II) was 5.6 μg/100 ml, and the mean plasma T4 level at 120 min was 6.6 μg/100 ml. This difference between fasting and postTRF plasma T4 was significant (P < 0.001) by paired analysis. Mean fasting plasma T4 concentration in group III patients was 1.3 μg/100 ml; after TRF a significant rise in T4 concentration was not detected in this group. The results indicate that TRF test is useful in distinguishing between primary hypothalamic and pituitary forms of TSH deficiency. In light of the evidence of TRF deficiency in eight of nine patients with idiopathic hypopituitary dwarfism, it seems likely that in these patients, other pituitary hormone deficiencies may be attributable to deficiency of their respective releasing factors. Images PMID:4330007

Chromium chains as polydentate fluoride ligands for actinides and group IV metals.

PubMed

Leng, Ji-Dong; Kostopoulos, Andreas K; Isherwood, Liam H; Ariciu, Ana-Maria; Tuna, Floriana; Vitórica-Yrezábal, Iñigo J; Pritchard, Robin G; Whitehead, George F S; Timco, Grigore A; Mills, David P; Winpenny, Richard E P

2018-05-08

The reactions of {Cr6} horseshoe chains {[nPr2NH2]3[Cr6F11(O2CtBu)10]}2, 1 and precursors of actinides and group IV metals led to a series of ring complexes [nPr2NH2][Cr7TiF6O2(O2CtBu)16], 2, [nPr2NH2][Cr6Ti2F5O3(O2CtBu)16], 3, [Cr6ThF7(O2CtBu)15 (Me2SO)], 4, [(nPr2NH2)2(Cr6Th2F12(O2CtBu)16)], 5 and [nPr2NH2][Cr6U2O2F8(O2CtBu)16(Me2SO)], 6. X-ray structure studies indicate that the {Cr6} chains maintain their structures in these complexes, acting as polydentate fluoride ligands. Their static magnetic properties were measured and fitted by isotropic exchange Hamiltonian. In accordance with 1, the magnetic exchanges between CrIII are antiferromagnetic, while the exchange interactions can be modified by the tetravalent metals. For compound 6, ferromagnetic exchanges JCr-U and JU-U are obtained. EPR spectra of compounds 2-5 were measured at Q band and were simulated. The spectrum of 2 has the same profile as {Cr7Cd} and {Cr7Zn} rings with a ground state S = 3/2. 3, 4 and 5 give similar EPR spectra with S = 0 ground states.

Relationship between serum TNF activity and insulin resistance in dairy cows affected with naturally occurring fatty liver.

PubMed

Ohtsuka, H; Koiwa, M; Hatsugaya, A; Kudo, K; Hoshi, F; Itoh, N; Yokota, H; Okada, H; Kawamura, S

2001-09-01

To clarity the relationship between tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and insulin resistance in dairy cows affected with fatty liver, naturally occurring cases were investigated. The affected cows were classified into following three groups according to histopathologic findings of the liver: mild fat droplet deposition (group 1; n=11), severe fat droplet deposition (group 2; n=10), and cloudy swelling (group 3; n=8). Serum TNF activities in Group 2 (8.67 +/- 2.16 U/ml) and Group 3 (11.65 +/- 1.92 U/ml) were significantly higher than that in Group 1 (3.57 +/- 0.81 U/ml) (p<0.05). The insulin-tolerance tests showed that the insulin-stimulated glucose disposal rates (GDR) in Group 2 (27.6 +/- 7.8%) and Group 3 (15.8 +/- 9.1%) were significantly lower than that in Group 1 (41.7 +/- 9.8%). There was a significant negative correlation between serum TNF activity and GDR in affected cows (r=-0.56, p<0.01). These results indicate that serum TNF activity is correlated with insulin resistance in cows with fatty liver.

HNO3 modified biochars for uranium (VI) removal from aqueous solution.

PubMed

Jin, Jie; Li, Shiwei; Peng, Xianqiang; Liu, Wei; Zhang, Chenlu; Yang, Yan; Han, Lanfang; Du, Ziwen; Sun, Ke; Wang, Xiangke

2018-05-01

The HNO 3 treatment was used to chemically modify the biochars produced from wheat straw (WH) and cow manure for U(VI) removal from aqueous solution. Macroscopic experiments proved that the enrichment of U(VI) on the biochars was regulated by surface complexation and electrostatic interactions. FTIR and XPS analyses confirmed that the highly efficient adsorption of U(VI) was due to the carboxyl groups on the biochar surfaces. The reducing agents of the R-CH 2 OH groups facilitated U(VI) adsorption on the untreated biochars. Owing to the higher contents of surface COO groups and more negative surface charge, the modified biochars showed enhanced U(VI) adsorption ability than the untreated ones. The maximum adsorption capacity of U(VI) by the oxidized WH was calculated to be 355.6 mg/g at pH 4.5 and 298 K, which was an improvement of 40 times relative to the untreated WH and was higher than that of most carbon-based adsorbents. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Medical expenditures associated with nonfatal occupational injuries among immigrant and U.S.-born workers

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background No national study has investigated whether immigrant workers are less likely than U.S.-workers to seek medical treatment after occupational injuries and whether the payment source differs between two groups. Methods Using the 2004–2009 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS) data, we estimated the annual incidence rate of nonfatal occupational injuries per 100 workers. Logistic regression models were fitted to test whether injured immigrant workers were less likely than U.S.-born workers to seek professional medical treatment after occupational injuries. We also estimated the average mean medical expenditures per injured worker during the 2 year MEPS reference period using linear regression analysis, adjusting for gender, age, race, marital status, education, poverty level, and insurance. Types of service and sources of payment were compared between U.S.-born and immigrant workers. Results A total of 1,909 injured U.S.-born workers reported 2,176 occupational injury events and 508 injured immigrant workers reported 560 occupational injury events. The annual nonfatal incidence rate per 100 workers was 4.0% (95% CI: 3.8%-4.3%) for U.S.-born workers and 3.0% (95% CI: 2.6%-3.3%) for immigrant workers. Medical treatment was sought after 77.3% (95% CI: 75.1%-79.4%) of the occupational injuries suffered by U.S.-born workers and 75.6% (95% CI: 69.8%-80.7%) of the occupational injuries suffered by immigrant workers. The average medical expenditure per injured worker in the 2 year MEPS reference period was $2357 for the U.S.-born workers and $2,351 for immigrant workers (in 2009 U.S. dollars, P = 0.99). Workers’ compensation paid 57.0% (95% CI: 49.4%-63.6%) of the total expenditures for U.S.-born workers and 43.2% (95% CI: 33.0%-53.7%) for immigrant workers. U.S.-born workers paid 6.7% (95% CI: 5.5%-8.3%) and immigrant workers paid 7.1% (95% CI: 5.2%-9.6%) out-of-pocket. Conclusions Immigrant workers had a statistically significant lower incidence rate of nonfatal occupational injuries than U.S.-born workers. There was no significant difference in seeking medical treatment and in the mean expenditures per injured worker between the two groups. The proportion of total expenditures paid by workers’ compensation was smaller (marginally significant) for immigrant workers than for U.S.-born workers. PMID:22905938

Efficacy and Safety of OnabotulinumtoxinA Treatment of Forehead Lines: A Multicenter, Randomized, Dose-Ranging Controlled Trial.

PubMed

Solish, Nowell; Rivers, Jason K; Humphrey, Shannon; Muhn, Channy; Somogyi, Chris; Lei, Xiaofang; Bhogal, Meetu; Caulkins, Carrie

2016-03-01

Various onabotulinumtoxinA doses are effective in treating forehead lines (FHL), with a trend toward lower doses. To evaluate efficacy and safety of onabotulinumtoxinA dose-ranging treatment of FHL when the frontalis area and glabellar complex are treated together. Adults with moderate-to-severe FHL received onabotulinumtoxinA 40 U (FHL, 20 U; glabellar lines [GL], 20 U), 30 U (FHL, 10 U; GL, 20 U), or placebo. Response was assessed at weeks 1, 2, day 30, and monthly to day 180. Coprimary efficacy end points were investigator- and subject-assessed Facial Wrinkle Scale scores of none or mild (day 30). Patient-reported outcomes, onset/duration of effect, and adverse events (AEs) were evaluated. Responder rates (investigator/subject, respectively) were 40-U group, 91.2%/89.5%; 30-U group, 86.4%/81.4%; placebo, 1.7%/5.1%. OnabotulinumtoxinA resulted in significantly greater responder rates than placebo (p < .001). Adverse events were mild to moderate and similar between groups (most common AEs: nasopharyngitis [4.6%] and headache [4.0%]). Treatment of FHL with onabotulinumtoxinA 40 and 30 U (in frontalis and glabellar complex muscles) was tolerable, effective, and sustained. Both doses significantly reduced FHL severity; however, the 40-U dose demonstrated a trend toward greater sustained benefit and longer duration of effect versus the 30-U dose, with similar AE rates.

[Reproducing and evaluating a rabbit model of multiple organ dysfunction syndrome after cardiopulmonary resuscitation resulted from asphyxia].

PubMed

Zhang, Dong; Li, Nan; Chen, Ying; Wang, Yu-shan

2013-02-01

To evaluate the reproduction of a model of post resuscitation multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (PR-MODS) after cardiac arrest (CA) in rabbit, in order to provide new methods for post-CA treatment. Thirty-five rabbits were randomly divided into three groups, the sham group (n=5), the 7-minute asphyxia group (n=15), and the 8-minute asphyxia group (n=15). The asphyxia CA model was reproduced with tracheal occlusion. After cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), the ratio of recovery of spontaneous circulation (ROSC), the mortality at different time points and the incidence of systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) were observed in two asphyxia groups. Creatine kinase isoenzyme (CK-MB), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), creatinine (Cr), glucose (Glu) and arterial partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) levels in blood were measured in the two asphyxia groups before CPR and 12, 24 and 48 hours after ROSC. The survived rabbits were euthanized at 48 hours after ROSC, and heart, brain, lung, kidney, liver, and intestine were harvested for pathological examination using light microscope. PR-MODS after CA was defined based on the function of main organs and their pathological changes. (1) The incidence of ROSC was 100.0% in 7-minute asphyxia group and 86.7% in 8-minute asphyxia group respectively (P>0.05). The 6-hour mortality in 8-minute asphyxia group was significantly higher than that in 7-minute asphyxia group (46.7% vs. 6.7%, P<0.05), and the mortality of 8-minute asphyxia group at 12 - 48 hours was slightly higher compared with that of 7-minute asphyxia group (all P>0.05). (2) There was a variety of organ dysfunctions in survived rabbits after ROSC, including chemosis, respiratory distress, hypotension, abdominal distension, weakened or disappearance of bowel peristalsis and oliguria. (3) There was no SIRS or associated changes in major organ function in the sham group. SIRS was observed at 12 - 24 hours after ROSC in the two asphyxia groups. CK-MB was increased significantly at 12 hours after ROSC compared with that before asphyxia (7-minute asphyxia group: 786.88±211.84 U/L vs. 468.20±149.45 U/L, 8-minute asphyxia group: 894.88±248.80 U/L vs. 462.11±115.15 U/L, both P<0.05), ALT, Cr and Glu were elevated obviously at 24 hours after ROSC (7-minute asphyxia group ALT: 174.25±36.28 U/L vs. 50.27±9.37 U/L, Cr: 144.25±41.64 μmol/L vs. 67.71±16.47 μmol/L, Glu: 11.21±1.14 mmol/L vs. 5.59±1.10 mmol/L; 8-minute asphyxia group ALT: 205.50±10.61 U/L vs. 51.13±10.37 U/L, Cr: 230.50±88.39 μmol/L vs. 65.93±13.81 μmol/L, Glu: 11.55±0.35 mmol/L vs. 6.41±1.23 mmol/L, all P<0.05), and PaO2 was lowered significantly at 48 hours after ROSC (7-minute asphyxia group: 5.03±0.73 kPa vs. 9.07±1.03 kPa, P<0.05). (4) There were pathological changes in major organ in the survived rabbits at 48 hours after ROSC (only 4 rabbits survived in 7-minute asphyxia group), including infiltration of inflammatory cells, partial cellular degeneration, edema, necrosis and tissue bleeding in major organs. If the SIRS and dysfunction of two or more organ were defined in animals after ROSC, the signs, biochemical markers and nonspecific pathological changes could be accepted to evaluate the PR-MODS.

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

Reynolds, Emily; Kennedy, Brendan J.; Avdeev, Maxim

A combination of S-XRD and NPD demonstrate the structure of Ba{sub 2}Y{sub 0.879}UO{sub 6+x} to be monoclinic in space group I2/m. That the U is hexavalent is evident from the U L{sub 2}-edge XANES measurements. This appears to be a rare example of a double perovskite containing vacancies at the octahedral B-sites and interstitial oxygen defects, which combine to stabilise hexavalent U and appears to be a consequence of the preparation of the sample in air. The Y vacancies, coupled with anion disorder, results in a distortion of the BO{sub 6} octahedra. - Graphical abstract: The structure of Ba{sub 2}Y{submore » 0.879}UO{sub 6+x} is shown to be a rare example of a double perovskite containing vacancies at the octahedral B-sites and interstitial oxygen defects. - Highlights: • Structure of Ba{sub 2}Y{sub 0.879}UO{sub 6+x} refined. • U L-edge XANES demonstrates the U is hexavalent. • Rare example of a perovskite containing vacancies at the octahedral B-site. • Y vacancies result in a distortion of the BO{sub 6} octahedra.« less

Does ultrasound-guided lidocaine injection improve local anaesthesia before femoral artery catheterization?

PubMed

Spiliopoulos, S; Katsanos, K; Diamantopoulos, A; Karnabatidis, D; Siablis, D

2011-05-01

To present the results of a prospective, randomized, single-centre study investigating local anaesthesia before percutaneous common femoral artery (CFA) puncture and catheterization with the use of ultrasound-guided injection of lidocaine versus standard infiltration by manual palpation. Patients scheduled to undergo diagnostic or therapeutic transfemoral catheter-based procedures gave informed consent and were randomized in two groups. In the first arm local anaesthesia with lidocaine hydrochloride 1% was performed under ultrasound guidance (group U/S), while in the second arm the standard method of manual artery palpation was applied (group M). In both groups, subsequent CFA catheterization was achieved under ultrasound guidance. The primary study endpoint was peri-procedural pain level evaluated with a visual-analogue scale (VAS score 0-10). Between January 2009 and 2010, 200 patients (161 men, mean age 63±12 years) were equally assigned to each group without any significant differences in baseline demographics. Patients in group U/S experienced significantly less pain during CFA catheterization in comparison with group M with a difference of three points in mean VAS score reported (1.6±1.6 versus 4.6±1.9, p<0.0001). In addition, significantly less volume of lidocaine was used in group U/S compared to group M (16±2.7 versus 19±0.8ml, p<0.001).Total vascular access time was similar in both groups (4.4±1.3 versus 4.5±1.3min). Overall complications included two small groin haematomas in each group. Ultrasound-guided local anaesthesia of the CFA prior to percutaneous transcatheter procedures is safe and achieves superior levels of analgesia with minimal patient pain and discomfort compared to the standard method of manual palpation. Copyright © 2011 The Royal College of Radiologists. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Final Report of the West Point Study Group

DTIC Science & Technology

1977-07-27

4 ~ CL(~ 00 -44 U6 41 M 0 014 cc in.0 531 Figre6 140 ’.44 0 0 * 0 4 , ’- 4 000 43 1 ’-. 4 ŗo- ’ 4 ’U 4 :k - 4 -0 1.4 P, t p w cc 04 0 0 43 En U3r. 8 - > 0 cd... 4 1- 4 a Lj 43 .3~~ 4 u340 w~ 8 04 Wý’. 0 V ’.44 CL .4l. -E" 4 3i-a" ,~W04 CL 8 . wiu r. -M a 0 - 4 -454 a r-Fi> co 2 0 p co;5 c o 0 w :3 0 c0 0 M- 4 a V...l1

Prime Contract Awards Alphabetically by Contractor, by State or Country, and Place. Part 20 (Tru & Associates Inc-VTM Group Joint Venture)

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-01-01

000w0c0000000w ( 0 6 S Coco to t to 00000 c, -0000.00.J 04 NN - N000NNCJ 04 000000000 00000 WW U SY NN N N N 4 4 C91000 000000cl.0 40 050 00 0 a0 0 0C 4 O...If106000 N4 06 -a M.’ 4 400 cl NV Mqt CI1- 0t SY MI-I.-IF- Sn-4 "- N W 0I N 000S4o-I CAN 10 000 0oCo 600 3Ni In6 < O OM UUUUm COOw 11 .1 NS 064C U-a...00a1.6 r-2 = Nabe O U0 I 4NC U I 1C)050.410󈧒 Wq(0 I w to0 I C’) ow 0 1 -I I 0 I0 0U I 0 4N U~Nocc0001-004n0Nl-INO -4 M(Y) 0D0 G 01- r-_-1 -40 M01

21-Aminosteroids prevent the down-regulation of hepatic cytochrome P450 induced by hypoxia and inflammation in conscious rabbits

PubMed Central

Galal, Ahmed; du Souich, Patrick

1999-01-01

This study was conducted to assess whether a 21-aminosteroid, U74389G, could prevent the down-regulation of hepatic cytochrome P450 (P450) induced by acute moderate hypoxia or an inflammatory reaction.The rabbits of two groups (n=6 per group) were subjected to acute moderate hypoxia (PaO2≈35 mmHg), one pre-treated with U74389G (3 mg kg−1 i.v. every 6 h, for 48 h). The rabbits of two other groups received 5 ml of turpentine s.c., one of them being pre-treated with U74389G (3 mg kg−1 i.v. every 6 h, for 72 h). The kinetics of theophylline (2.5 mg kg−1) were assessed to evaluate the activity of the P450. Once the rabbits were sacrificed, the P450 content and the amount of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), a marker of lipid peroxidation, were estimated in the liver.Compared with control rabbits, hypoxia and inflammation increased theophylline plasma concentrations, as a result of a decrease in theophylline systemic clearance (P<0.05). Both experimental conditions reduced hepatic content of P450 by 40–50% (P<0.05) and increased the amount of hepatic TBARS by around 50% (P<0.05). Pre-treatment with U74389G prevented the hypoxia- and inflammation-induced decrease in theophylline systemic clearance, the down-regulation of hepatic P450, and the increase in liver TBARS.It is concluded that in the rabbit, U74389G prevents hepatic P450 depression produced by acute moderate hypoxia and a turpentine-induced inflammatory reaction, possibly by eliciting a radical quenching antioxidant activity. PMID:10510447

Final report for Texas A&M University Group Contribution to DE-FG02-09ER25949/DE-SC0002505: Topology for Statistical Modeling of Petascale Data (and ASCR-funded collaboration between Sandia National Labs, Texas A&M University and University of Utah)

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

Rojas, Joseph Maurice

We summarize the contributions of the Texas A\\&M University Group to the project (DE-FG02-09ER25949/DE-SC0002505: Topology for Statistical Modeling of Petascale Data - an ASCR-funded collaboration between Sandia National Labs, Texas A\\&M U, and U Utah) during 6/9/2011 -- 2/27/2013.

Using T2-Exchange from Ln3+DOTA-Based Chelates for Contrast-Enhanced Molecular Imaging of Prostate Cancer with MRI

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-04-01

group meetings to help with collaboration among the group members. He also gave two conference presentations (see Section 6) about this research ...Dallas Dallas, TX 75390-8568 REPORT DATE: April 2016 TYPE OF REPORT: Final PREPARED FOR: U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command Fort Detrick...SPONSOR/MONITOR’S ACRONYM(S) U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command Fort Detrick, Maryland 21702-5012 11. SPONSOR/MONITOR’S REPORT NUMBER

A 24-week, prospective, randomized, open-label, treat-to-target pilot study of obese type 2 diabetes patients with severe insulin resistance to assess the addition of exenatide on the efficacy of u-500 regular insulin plus metformin.

PubMed

Distiller, Larry A; Nortje, Hendrik; Wellmann, Holger; Amod, Aslam; Lombard, Landman

2014-11-01

To compare the efficacy of 500 U/mL (U-500) regular insulin + metformin with U-500 regular insulin + metformin + exenatide in improving glycemic control in patients with severely insulin-resistant type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Thirty patients with T2DM and severe insulin resistance were screened, and 28 were randomized to regular insulin U-500 + metformin or the GLP-1 analog exenatide, U-500, and metformin. Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels, body weight, and insulin doses were documented at baseline and at 3 and 6 months. The number and severity hypoglycemic episodes were noted. There were 7 males and 7 females in each group (U-500 + metformin and U-500 + metformin + exenatide). Overall, U-500 insulin + metformin, either alone or with the addition of exenatide, resulted in a significant improvement in HbA1c in both groups, with no significant difference between the 2 groups. There was no meaningful weight change in those utilizing exenatide. Those on U-500 insulin and metformin alone had a tendency toward some weight gain. No severe hypoglycemia occurred during the study period. Symptomatic hypoglycemia was more common in the group on exenatide, but this occurred in only 5 patients, and the clinical significance of this is uncertain. Insulin dosage changes on U-500 regular insulin were variable but tended to be lower in those subjects on exenatide. U-500 regular insulin + metformin is effective for the treatment of T2DM patients with severe insulin resistance. The addition of exenatide may ameliorate potential weight gain but provides no additional improvement in glycemia.

Movement Demands of Elite Under-20s and Senior International Rugby Union Players

PubMed Central

Drawer, Scott; Pollard, Ben; Eager, Robin; Taylor, Neil; Cook, Christian J.

2016-01-01

This study compared the movement demands of elite international Under-20 age grade (U20s) and senior international rugby union players during competitive tournament match play. Forty elite professional players from an U20 and 27 elite professional senior players from international performance squads were monitored using 10Hz global positioning systems (GPS) during 15 (U20s) and 8 (senior) international tournament matches during the 2014 and 2015 seasons. Data on distances, velocities, accelerations, decelerations, high metabolic load (HML) distance and efforts, and number of sprints were derived. Data files from players who played over 60 min (n = 258) were separated firstly into Forwards and Backs, and more specifically into six positional groups; FR–Front Row (prop & hooker), SR–Second Row, BR–Back Row (Flankers & No.8), HB–Half Backs (scrum half & outside half), MF–Midfield (centres), B3 –Back Three (wings & full back) for match analysis. Linear mixed models revealed significant differences between U20 and senior teams in both the forwards and backs. In the forwards the seniors covered greater HML distance (736.4 ± 280.3 vs 701.3 ± 198.7m, p = 0.01) and severe decelerations (2.38 ± 2.2 vs 2.28 ± 1.65, p = 0.05) compared to the U20s, but performed less relative HSR (3.1 ± 1.6 vs 3.2 ± 1.5, p < 0.01), moderate (19.4 ± 10.5 vs 23.6 ± 10.5, p = 0.01) and high accelerations (2.2 ± 1.9 vs 4.3 ± 2.7, p < 0.01) and sprint•min-1 (0.11 ± 0.06 vs 0.11 ± 0.05, p < 0.01). Senior backs covered a greater relative distance (73.3 ± 8.1 vs 69.1 ± 7.6 m•min-1, p < 0.01), greater High Metabolic Load (HML) distance (1138.0 ± 233.5 vs 1060.4 ± 218.1m, p < 0.01), HML efforts (112.7 ± 22.2 vs 98.8 ± 21.7, p < 0.01) and heavy decelerations (9.9 ± 4.3 vs 9.5 ± 4.4, p = 0.04) than the U20s backs. However, the U20s backs performed more relative HSR (7.3 ± 2.1 vs 7.2 ± 2.1, p <0.01) and sprint•min-1 (0.26 ± 0.07 vs 0.25 ± 0.07, p < 0.01). Further investigation highlighted differences between the 6 positional groups of the teams. The positional groups that differed the most on the variables measured were the FR and MF groups, with the U20s FR having higher outputs on HSR, moderate & high accelerations, moderate, high & severe decelerations, HML distance, HML efforts, and sprints•min-1. For the MF group the senior players produced greater values for relative distance covered, HSR, moderate decelerations, HML distance and sprint•min-1. The BR position group was most similar with the only differences seen on heavy accelerations (U20s higher) and moderate decelerations (seniors higher). Findings demonstrate that U20s internationals appear to be an adequate ‘stepping stone’ for preparing players for movement characteristics found senior International rugby, however, the current study highlight for the first time that certain positional groups may require more time to be able to match the movement demands required at a higher playing level than others. Conditioning staff must also bear in mind that the U20s players whilst maintaining or improving match movement capabilities may require to gain substantial mass in some positions to match their senior counterparts. PMID:27824865

Movement Demands of Elite Under-20s and Senior International Rugby Union Players.

PubMed

Cunningham, Daniel J; Shearer, David A; Drawer, Scott; Pollard, Ben; Eager, Robin; Taylor, Neil; Cook, Christian J; Kilduff, Liam P

2016-01-01

This study compared the movement demands of elite international Under-20 age grade (U20s) and senior international rugby union players during competitive tournament match play. Forty elite professional players from an U20 and 27 elite professional senior players from international performance squads were monitored using 10Hz global positioning systems (GPS) during 15 (U20s) and 8 (senior) international tournament matches during the 2014 and 2015 seasons. Data on distances, velocities, accelerations, decelerations, high metabolic load (HML) distance and efforts, and number of sprints were derived. Data files from players who played over 60 min (n = 258) were separated firstly into Forwards and Backs, and more specifically into six positional groups; FR-Front Row (prop & hooker), SR-Second Row, BR-Back Row (Flankers & No.8), HB-Half Backs (scrum half & outside half), MF-Midfield (centres), B3 -Back Three (wings & full back) for match analysis. Linear mixed models revealed significant differences between U20 and senior teams in both the forwards and backs. In the forwards the seniors covered greater HML distance (736.4 ± 280.3 vs 701.3 ± 198.7m, p = 0.01) and severe decelerations (2.38 ± 2.2 vs 2.28 ± 1.65, p = 0.05) compared to the U20s, but performed less relative HSR (3.1 ± 1.6 vs 3.2 ± 1.5, p < 0.01), moderate (19.4 ± 10.5 vs 23.6 ± 10.5, p = 0.01) and high accelerations (2.2 ± 1.9 vs 4.3 ± 2.7, p < 0.01) and sprint•min-1 (0.11 ± 0.06 vs 0.11 ± 0.05, p < 0.01). Senior backs covered a greater relative distance (73.3 ± 8.1 vs 69.1 ± 7.6 m•min-1, p < 0.01), greater High Metabolic Load (HML) distance (1138.0 ± 233.5 vs 1060.4 ± 218.1m, p < 0.01), HML efforts (112.7 ± 22.2 vs 98.8 ± 21.7, p < 0.01) and heavy decelerations (9.9 ± 4.3 vs 9.5 ± 4.4, p = 0.04) than the U20s backs. However, the U20s backs performed more relative HSR (7.3 ± 2.1 vs 7.2 ± 2.1, p <0.01) and sprint•min-1 (0.26 ± 0.07 vs 0.25 ± 0.07, p < 0.01). Further investigation highlighted differences between the 6 positional groups of the teams. The positional groups that differed the most on the variables measured were the FR and MF groups, with the U20s FR having higher outputs on HSR, moderate & high accelerations, moderate, high & severe decelerations, HML distance, HML efforts, and sprints•min-1. For the MF group the senior players produced greater values for relative distance covered, HSR, moderate decelerations, HML distance and sprint•min-1. The BR position group was most similar with the only differences seen on heavy accelerations (U20s higher) and moderate decelerations (seniors higher). Findings demonstrate that U20s internationals appear to be an adequate 'stepping stone' for preparing players for movement characteristics found senior International rugby, however, the current study highlight for the first time that certain positional groups may require more time to be able to match the movement demands required at a higher playing level than others. Conditioning staff must also bear in mind that the U20s players whilst maintaining or improving match movement capabilities may require to gain substantial mass in some positions to match their senior counterparts.

On the difference between the pyroxenes LiFeSi2O6 and LiFeGe2O6 in their magnetic structures and spin orientations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Changhoon; Hong, Jisook; Shim, Ji Hoon; Whangbo, Myung-Hwan

2014-03-01

The clinopyroxenes LiFeSi2O6 and LiFeGe2O6, crystallizing in a monoclinic space group P21/c, are isostructural and isoelectronic Their crystal structures are made up of zigzag chains of edge-sharing FeO6 octahedra containing high-spin Fe3 + ions, which run along the c direction. Despite this structural similarity, the two have quite different magnetic structures and spin orientations. In LiFeSi2O6 the Fe spins have a ferromagnetic coupling within the zigzag chains along c and such FM chains have an antiferromagnetic coupling along a. In contrast, in LiFeGe2O6, the spins have an AFM coupling within the zigzag chains along c and such FM chains have an ↑ ↑ ↓ ↓ coupling along a. In addition, the spin orientation is parallel to c in LiFeSi2O6, but is perpendicular to c in LiFeGe2O6. To explain these differences in the magnetic structure and spin orientation, we evaluated the spin exchange parameters by performing energy mapping analysis based on LDA +U and GGA +U calculations and also by evaluating the magnetocrystalline anisotropy energies in terms of GGA +U +SOC and LDA +U +SOC calculations. Our study show that the magnetic structures and spin orientations of LiFeSi2O6 and LiFeGe2O6 are better described by LDA +U and LDA +U +SOC calculations. This research was supported by Basic Science Research Program through the National Research Foundation of Korea(NRF) funded by the Ministry of Education(2013R1A1A2060341).

Predictive value of glucose-insulin ratio in PCOS and profile of women who will benefit from metformin therapy: obese, lean, hyper or normoinsulinemic?

PubMed

Onalan, Gogsen; Goktolga, Umit; Ceyhan, Temel; Bagis, Tayfun; Onalan, Reside; Pabuçcu, Recai

2005-12-01

The aim of the present study is to evaluate sub-groups of PCOS patients who will benefit from metformin therapy and to find out any predictors of ovulation in PCOS sub-groups. In the current prospective-randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study, PCOS patients (n = 116) were divided into six main groups according to glucose to insulin ratio (G-I ratio mg/10(-4) U) and body mass index (BMI kg/m2) as: Group 1: normoinsulinemic (G-I ratio > or = 4.5 mg/10(-4) U), lean (BMI < 25) (n = 37); Group 2: normoinsulinemic, overweight (BMI: 25-29.9) (n = 19); Group 3: normoinsulinemic, obese (BMI > or = 30) (n = 18); Group 4: hyperinsulinemic (G-I ratio < 4.5 mg/10(-4) U), lean (n = 28); Group 5: hyperinsulinemic, overweight (n = 17); Group 6: hyperinsulinemic, obese (n = 20). Patients in each group were randomized onto placebo or metformin treatments (850 mg two to three times per day according to BMI). The rate of ovulation, biochemical profile, hormonal profile and clinical symptoms of hyperandrogenism were evaluated before and after 6 months of metformin and placebo treatments. We observed a significant decrease in WHR following metformin therapy in the normoinsulinemic overweight sub-group (P < 0.05). The duration of the menstrual cycle significantly decreased in the normoinsulinemic obese sub-group on metformin therapy (P < 0.05). Metformin had a significant effect on hirsutism scores in hyperinsulinemic lean women (P < 0.05) and decreased DHEAS levels significantly in the lean hyperinsulinemic and normoinsulinemic groups (P < 0.05). Metformin had significant effects on ovulation in only lean hyperinsulinemic women (P < 0.05). Clinical outcomes of metformin therapy may be categorized on the basis of basal BMI and insulin levels in PCOS patients.

Site Investigation Report Groups 3,5, and 6 Fort Devens, Massachusetts. Volume 2 of 2: Appendices

DTIC Science & Technology

1996-01-01

Invertebrates: A Synoptic Review" U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Biological Report 85 (1.6), 60 pp. Eisler , R., 1987 . "Mercury Hazards to Fish, Wildlife, and...Invertebrates: A Synoptic Review" U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Biological Report 85 (1.10), 90 pp. Eisler , R., 1987 . "Polycyclic Aromatic...1983). [f] From Eisler ( 1987 ). [g] Value from Hansch and Leo (1979). [h] Plant value from Eisler (1988). [i] Mammal value from USEPA (1985). [j

Online Attention Training for Older Adults.

PubMed

Wennberg, Alexandra; Kueider, Alexandra; Spira, Adam; Adams, Gregory; Rager, Robert; Rebok, George

Evidence suggests that cognitive training interventions can improve older adults' cognitive performance. Successful training programs are adaptable and train multiple cognitive domains to target individual strengths and weaknesses. Computerized training programs are useful because they allow older adults to easily access training. This pilot study used an online attention training program, ATTENTION WORKOUT™, to enhance three aspects of attention- coordination , allocation , and selective focus -in community-dwelling older adults randomized to either an abbreviated (n=13) or an extended (n=17) practice training program over a 6-week period. Participants in the extended practice group significantly improved on selective focus reading distraction tasks with unrelated words (U=39.5; Z=-2.34; p =.02) and blanks (U=26.5; Z=-3.05; p =.002) as well as a matching attributes task (U=49.5; Z=-2.33; p =.02). The extended practice group significantly improved on three tasks of coordinating attention - radio-tuning (U=30; Z=-2.73; p =.01), circuit-breaker resetting (U=46; Z=-2.24; p =.03), and the combination of the two tasks (U=15; Z=-3.51; p <.0001) - as well as a memory generalization task (U=20; Z=-3.27; p =.001). A post-test satisfaction survey found both groups enjoyed the program, but the abbreviated practice group felt the tasks were more difficult. These findings suggest online attention training programs, like ATTENTION WORKOUT, can improve attention-related skills in community-dwelling older adults.

[Relationship between clinical features and prognosis of highly pathogenic avian influenza A/H5N1 infection in humans in mainland China].

PubMed

Li, Jia; Xu, Yu; Chen, Yu-qing; Ge, Yang; Zhang, Long-hui; Xu, Xiao-ling; Wu, Tong-sheng; Chen, Yu-sheng; Wang, Jing; Liu, Jian-nan; Wei, Li-ping; Qiu, Chen; Zhong, Xiao-ning; Huang, Mei-xing; Xin, Jian-bao; Luo, Ru-ping; Zhao, Ming-shun; Li, Zai-qing; Hu, Cheng-ping; Zhao, Wei; Wang, Hong; Zhang, Wei; Guo, Lu-sheng; Wang, Qiu-yue; Zhou, Long-nü; Liang, Zong-an; Ma, Jun-qing; Liu, Yue-jian; Jiang, Yuan-ming; Xie, Wan-sheng; Sheng, Ji-fang; Gao, Zhan-cheng

2009-05-01

To investigate the relationship between clinical features of patients with A/H5N1 infection and their prognosis in mainland China. This study included 28 human cases with A/H5N1 infection in mainland China from October 2005 to May 2008. Data were collected and reviewed from hospital medical records and publishied papers. A database was built by EPIDATA 3.02 and statistical analyses were performed with SPSS 13.0. The median age of the 28 cases was 29 years (range 6-62), and 15 were females. Ten patients survived, and 18 died. The typically clinical manifestations of human influenza A/H5N1 infection included fever and lower respiratory infection. The numbers of peripheral white blood cells, lymphocytes and platelets in the survival and non-survival groups were (4.01 +/- 1.86) x 10(9)/L vs (5.1 +/- 2.9) x 10(9)/L, (1.09 +/- 0.49) x 10(9)/L vs (0.98 +/- 0.44) x 10(9)/L, and (116 +/- 39) x 10(9)/L vs (101 +/- 40) x 10(9)/L, respectively; the differences were not statistically significant between the 2 groups (P>0.05). There was also no statistically significant difference in the increased serum enzymes, such as aspartate aminotransferase [(173 +/- 246) U/L vs (272 +/- 263) U/L], lactate dehydrogenase [(1016 +/- 568) U/L vs (1512 +/- 1052) U/L], creatine kinase [(1099 +/- 1590) U/L vs (2534 +/- 4281) U/L] and MB isoenzyme of creatine kinase [(28 +/- 30) U/L vs (125 +/- 197) U/L] (P>0.05) between the survival and the non-survival groups. However, there was a statistically significant difference in the number of patients with an initial LDH level more than 8 fold of the normal value between the survival and the non-survival groups (none vs 6, P<0.05). All of the 28 cases developed bilateral multiple infiltrates and consolidation in chest radiographs. Acute respiratory distress syndrome occurred in 22 cases, 17 of them died. All the 9 patients with acute kidney injury died. Ten patients received antiviral treatment with oseltamivir, and 6 of them survived. There was a statistical difference in the time of initiating oseltamivir treatment between the survival and the non-survival cases [(6.5 +/- 3.0) d vs (11.8 +/- 3.3) d, Z = 3.70, P<0.05]. Broad spectrum antibiotics and corticosteroids were administered in all of the 28 cases. There was no statistical difference between the survival and the non-survival groups regarding to the corticosteroid treatment (P>0.05). Initial LDH level reaching more than 8 fold of the normal value suggests a poor prognosis for human H5N1 infection. Patients complicated with either ARDS or acute kidney injury had a higher risk of death. Early administration of effective antiviral agents might improve the prognosis and decrease case fatality.

Hepatocellular integrity after parenteral nutrition: comparison of a fish-oil-containing lipid emulsion with an olive-soybean oil-based lipid emulsion.

PubMed

Piper, Swen N; Schade, Ingo; Beschmann, Ralf B; Maleck, Wolfgang H; Boldt, Joachim; Röhm, Kerstin D

2009-12-01

Parenteral nutrition including lipids might be associated with liver disease. The cause leading to parenteral nutrition-related liver dysfunction remains largely unknown but is likely to be multifactorial. The study was performed to assess the effects of a lipid emulsion based on soybean oil, medium-chain triglycerides, olive and fish oil (SMOFlipid20%) compared with a lipid emulsion based on olive and soybean oil on hepatic integrity. In a prospective, randomized, double-blinded trial, 44 postoperative patients with an indication for parenteral nutrition were allocated to one of two regimens: group A (n = 22) received SMOFlipid, group B (n = 22) a lipid emulsion based on olive and soybean oil for 5 days. Aspartate aminotransferase, alanin-aminotransferase, and serum alpha-glutathion S-transferase were measured before the start of parenteral nutrition (d0), at day 2 (d2), and day 5 (d5) after the start of parenteral nutrition. The significance level was defined at a P value of less than 0.05. There was no significant difference at d0, but at d2 and d5, significantly lower aspartate aminotransferase (d2: group A: 27 +/- 13 vs. group B: 47 +/- 36 U l(-1); d5: A: 31 +/- 14 vs. B: 56 +/- 45 U l(-1)), alanin-aminotransferase (d2: A: 20 +/- 12 vs. B: 42 +/- 39 U l(-1); d5: A: 26 +/- 15 vs. B: 49 +/- 44 U l(-1)), and alpha-glutathion S-transferase levels (d2: A: 5 +/- 6 vs. B: 17 +/- 21 U l(-1); d5: A: 6 +/- 7 vs. B: 24 +/- 27 microg l(-1)) were found in soybean oil, medium-chain triglycerides, olive and fish oil group compared with the control group. Hepatic integrity was well retained with the administration of SMOFlipid whereas in patients receiving a lipid emulsion based on olive and soybean oil liver enzymes were elevated indicating a lower liver tolerability.

[The establishment of the arsenic poisoning rats model caused by corn flour baked by high-arsenic coal].

PubMed

Yao, Mao-lin; Zhang, Ai-hua; Yu, Chun; Xu, Yu-yan; Hu, Yong; Xiao, Ting-ting; Wang, Lei

2013-09-01

To establish coal arsenic poisoning rat model by feeding the rats with the corn powder baked by high arsenic coal as the main raw material. Fifty Wistar rats, healthy, were randomly divided into 5 groups according to the figures of their weights, including control group, drinking arsenic poisoning water group, low, medium and high arsenic contaminated grain group, 10 rats for each.Rats in control group and drinking arsenic poisoning water group were fed with standard feed without any arsenic containing. Rats in water group would drink 100 mg/L As2O3 solution and the rats in arsenic grain groups would be fed with the arsenic contaminated grain at the dose of 25, 50 and 100 mg/kg, respectively. The duration would last for 3 months.General situation and weight were observed. At the same time, the arsenic contents of urine, hair, liver and kidney of the rats in each group were detected, as well as the histopathology changes of liver and kidney, and the ultra structure of liver was observed. The arsenic contents of urine (median(min-max)) of the rats in the arsenic water group, low, medium and high arsenic grain groups were separately 3055.59 (722.43-6389.05), 635.96(367.85-1551.31), 1453.84 (593.27-5302.94) and 3101.11 (666.64-6858.61) µg/g Cr; while the arsenic contents of hair of the rats in the above groups were separately (23.07 ± 10.38), (8.87 ± 3.31), (12.43 ± 6.65) and (25.68 ± 7.16) µg/g; the arsenic contents of liver of the rats in the above groups were separately (5.68 ± 3.13), (2.64 ± 1.52), (3.89 ± 1.76) and (5.34 ± 2.78) µg/g; and the arsenic contents of kidney were separately (6.90 ± 1.94), (3.48 ± 1.96), (5.03 ± 2.08) and (7.02 ± 1.62) µg/g; which were all significantly higher than those in the control group (86.70 (49.71-106.104) µg/g Cr,(1.28 ± 0.37) µg/g, (1.01 ± 0.34) µg/g and (1.82 ± 1.09) µg/g, respectively). The difference showed significance (P < 0.05). Under electron microscope detection, we observed the reduction of mitochondrial, the blurred mitochondrial cristae, some disappeared ridges, the reduced rough endoplasmic reticulum, and irregular uneven nuclear in the liver cells of rats in arsenic contaminated grain group. The contents of aspartate transaminase (AST) and total bile acid (TBA) in medium and high arsenic contaminated grain group were respectively (196.17 ± 46.18), (212.40 ± 35.14) U/L and (11.74 ± 4.07), (19.19 ± 4.68)µmol/L, which were higher than it in the control group (separately (143.10 ± 29.13) U/L and (6.23 ± 2.95)µmol/L). The contents of glutathione-S-transferases(GST), γ-glutamyltranspeptidase (GGT)and blood urea nitrogen (BUN)in high arsenic contaminated grain group were separately (196.21 ± 47.38)U/L, (1.71 ± 0.66)U/L, (9.54 ± 1.95)mmol/L, which were higher than that in the control group ((134.93 ± 24.80 )U/L, (0.75 ± 0.36)U/L, (7.67 ± 1.02)mmol/L, respectively). The contents of cholinesterase (CHE) in low, medium and high arsenic contaminated grain group were separately (259.90 ± 52.71)U/L, (263.44 ± 66.06)U/L and (244.90 ± 36.14)U/L, the contents of total protein(TP) in rats of high arsenic contaminated grain group were (62.64 ± 5.50)g/L, which was all lower than that in the control group ((448.33 ± 59.67)U/L, (69.38 ± 4.24)g/L, respectively). The contents of TBA in high arsenic contaminated grain group ( (19.19 ± 4.68) µmol/L) was higher than that in drinking water arsenic poisoning group ((15.15 ± 2.64)µmol/L). The differences of the above indexes were all significant (P < 0.05). The results showed the arsenic poisoning rat model produced by coal-burning were successfully established.

Treatment of infants and toddlers with cystic fibrosis-related pancreatic insufficiency and fat malabsorption with pancrelipase MT.

PubMed

Van de Vijver, Els; Desager, Kristine; Mulberg, Andrew E; Staelens, Sofie; Verkade, Henkjan J; Bodewes, Frank A J A; Malfroot, Anne; Hauser, Bruno; Sinaasappel, Maarten; Van Biervliet, Stefanie; Behm, Martin; Pelckmans, Paul; Callens, Dirk; Veereman-Wauters, Gigi

2011-07-01

Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) improves nutritional status and growth in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) with pancreatic insufficiency (PI). The current recommendation for infants and young children, who are not able to swallow the whole capsule, is to open the capsule and mix the beads in a spoon with some applesauce; however, the efficacy and safety data of this approach are currently lacking. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy, palatability (ease of swallowing), and safety of 4 dose levels of pancrelipase microtablets (Pancrease MT) in infants and young children with CF-related PI. This study was a phase II randomized, investigator-blinded, parallel-group pilot study in DNA-proven infants with CF and PI. The study design included a run-in period (days 1-5) and an experimental period (days 6-11). Pancrelipase microtablets (2-mm, enteric coated) were provided orally. Sixteen subjects, 6 to 30 months of age, were provided 500 U lipase/kg/meal for 5 days (baseline period). Subsequently, subjects were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 treatment groups (each n = 4), receiving 500, 1000, 1500, or 2000 U (Ph. EUR) of lipase/kg/meal, respectively, for 5 days (experimental period). The primary endpoint was medication efficacy assessed by the 72-hour fecal fat excretion, expressed as coefficient of fecal fat absorption (CFA), and 13C mixed triglyceride breath test. Secondary endpoints were safety and palatability. Overall compliance, defined as used study medication, was 89% to 99% for the entire study. None of the 4 dose regimens significantly influenced the CFA, relative to the baseline period (median range 83%-93%). During the run-in period the median cumulative % 13C was 11 (range -8 to 59). After randomization the median cumulative % 13C was 18 (range 14-23) in the 500-U, 14 (range -1 to 17) in the 1000-U, 10 (range 10-27) in the 1500-U, and 3 (range 1-49) in the 2000-U groups. Palatability was scored fair to good by the parents in each of the treatment groups. Gastrointestinal symptoms were reported in some patients, including common adverse events reported in clinical trials involving pancreatic enzyme therapy. No serious or other adverse events were reported. Treatment with Pancrease MT at a dosage of 500 U lipase/kg/meal resulted in a CFA of approximately 89% in pediatric subjects ages 6 to 30 months with PI resulting from CF. Pancrease MT doses were well tolerated and mean palatability was scored as fair to good. Present results do not indicate that a dosage higher than 500 U (Ph. EUR) lipase/kg/meal increases the coefficient of fat absorption in a cohort of infants 6 to 30 months of age.

Peak torque and muscle balance in the knees of young U-15 and U-17 soccer athletes playing various tactical positions.

PubMed

Chiamonti Bona, Cleiton; Tourinho Filho, Hugo; Izquierdo, Mikel; Pires Ferraz, Ricardo M; Marques, Mário C

2017-01-01

Soccer is a sport that is practiced worldwide and has been investigated in its various aspects, particularly muscle strength, which is an essential motor skill for sports performance. The objective of this study was to investigate the peak torque and muscle balance on the knee extensor and flexor of young soccer players in the tactical positions of goalkeeper, defender, full back, midfielder, defensive midfielder and striker, as well as to determine which field position has the highest peak torque. Forty-nine male players were recruited and divided into two categories during the preparatory period of the season: the Under-15 (U-15) group (N.=23, mean age 14.7±0.5 years, body mass 58.2±10.5 kg, body height 168.5±7.6 cm), and the Under-17 (U-17) group (N.=26, mean age 16.8±0.4 years, body mass 69.2±7.9 kg, body height 176.2±6.6 cm). The U-17 athletes presented a higher peak torque in all the movements of flexion and extension in the two angular velocities (i.e. 60°/s and 300°/s), but only the dominant knee extensor at 300°/s was significantly different between the two categories as well as the percentage change in peak torque compared between U-15 and U-17 was always above 20%. The peak torque variation in the U-17 category (i.e. mostly above 20%) highlights a higher peak torque compared to U-15 athletes. The muscular deficit of the two categories presented a low average of 10-15%, indicating a good muscle balance between knee extensors and flexors. Finally, goalkeepers and defenders achieved the highest peak torque amongst the field positions.

Glycaemic control and hypoglycaemia during 12 months of randomized treatment with insulin glargine 300 U/mL versus glargine 100 U/mL in people with type 1 diabetes (EDITION 4)

PubMed Central

Bergenstal, Richard M.; Bolli, Geremia B.; Ziemen, Monika; Rojeski, Maria; Espinasse, Melanie; Riddle, Matthew C.

2017-01-01

Aims Insulin glargine 300 U/mL (Gla‐300) offers a flatter pharmacodynamic profile than insulin glargine 100 U/mL (Gla‐100). We have compared these insulins over 1 year in people with type 1 diabetes (T1DM). Methods EDITION 4 was a 6‐month, multicentre, randomized, open‐label phase 3 study. People with T1DM who completed the 6 months continued randomized Gla‐300 or Gla‐100 once daily, morning or evening, for a further 6 months. Results Among 549 participants randomized, 444 completed the 12‐month study period (Gla‐300, 80%; Gla‐100, 82%). Mean HbA1c decreased similarly from baseline to month 12 in the 2 treatment groups (difference, 0.02 [95% CI, −0.13 to 0.17]) %‐units [0.2 (−1.5 to 1.9) mmol/mol]), to a mean of 7.86 %‐units (62.4 mmol/mol) in both groups. For morning vs evening injection, there was no difference in HbA1c change over 12 months for Gla‐100, but a significantly larger decrease in HbA1c was observed in the Gla‐300 morning group than in the Gla‐300 evening group (difference, −0.25 [−0.47 to −0.04] %‐units [−2.7 (−5.2 to −0.4) mmol/mol]). Mean glucose from the 8‐point SMPG profiles decreased from baseline, and was similar between the 2 treatment groups. Basal insulin dose was 20% higher with Gla‐300 than with Gla‐100, while hypoglycaemia event rates, analysed at night, over 24 hours, or according to different glycaemic thresholds, did not differ between treatment groups, regardless of injection time. Adverse event profiles did not differ between groups. Conclusions In T1DM, Gla‐300 provides glucose control comparable to that of Gla‐100, and can be given at any time of day. PMID:28661585

Glycaemic control and hypoglycaemia during 12 months of randomized treatment with insulin glargine 300 U/mL versus glargine 100 U/mL in people with type 1 diabetes (EDITION 4).

PubMed

Home, Philip D; Bergenstal, Richard M; Bolli, Geremia B; Ziemen, Monika; Rojeski, Maria; Espinasse, Melanie; Riddle, Matthew C

2018-01-01

Insulin glargine 300 U/mL (Gla-300) offers a flatter pharmacodynamic profile than insulin glargine 100 U/mL (Gla-100). We have compared these insulins over 1 year in people with type 1 diabetes (T1DM). EDITION 4 was a 6-month, multicentre, randomized, open-label phase 3 study. People with T1DM who completed the 6 months continued randomized Gla-300 or Gla-100 once daily, morning or evening, for a further 6 months. Among 549 participants randomized, 444 completed the 12-month study period (Gla-300, 80%; Gla-100, 82%). Mean HbA1c decreased similarly from baseline to month 12 in the 2 treatment groups (difference, 0.02 [95% CI, -0.13 to 0.17]) %-units [0.2 (-1.5 to 1.9) mmol/mol]), to a mean of 7.86 %-units (62.4 mmol/mol) in both groups. For morning vs evening injection, there was no difference in HbA1c change over 12 months for Gla-100, but a significantly larger decrease in HbA1c was observed in the Gla-300 morning group than in the Gla-300 evening group (difference, -0.25 [-0.47 to -0.04] %-units [-2.7 (-5.2 to -0.4) mmol/mol]). Mean glucose from the 8-point SMPG profiles decreased from baseline, and was similar between the 2 treatment groups. Basal insulin dose was 20% higher with Gla-300 than with Gla-100, while hypoglycaemia event rates, analysed at night, over 24 hours, or according to different glycaemic thresholds, did not differ between treatment groups, regardless of injection time. Adverse event profiles did not differ between groups. In T1DM, Gla-300 provides glucose control comparable to that of Gla-100, and can be given at any time of day. © 2017 The Authors. Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

A multicenter, randomized, double-blind, dose-finding study of condoliase in patients with lumbar disc herniation.

PubMed

Matsuyama, Yukihiro; Chiba, Kazuhiro; Iwata, Hisashi; Seo, Takayuki; Toyama, Yoshiaki

2018-05-01

OBJECTIVE Chemonucleolysis with condoliase has the potential to be a new, less invasive therapeutic option for patients with lumbar disc herniation (LDH). The aim of the present study was to determine the most suitable therapeutic dose of condoliase. METHODS Patients between 20 and 70 years of age with unilateral leg pain, positive findings on the straight leg raise test, and LDH were recruited. All eligible patients were randomly assigned to receive condoliase (1.25, 2.5, or 5 U) or placebo. The primary end point was a change in the worst leg pain from preadministration (baseline) to week 13. The secondary end points were changes from baseline in the following items: worst back pain, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), SF-36, and neurological examination. For pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic analyses, plasma condoliase concentrations and serum keratan sulfate concentrations were measured. The safety end points were adverse events (AEs) and radiographic and MRI parameters. Data on leg pain, back pain, abnormal neurological findings, and imaging parameters were collected until week 52. RESULTS A total of 194 patients received an injection of condoliase or placebo. The mean change in worst leg pain from baseline to week 13 was -31.7 mm (placebo), -46.7 mm (1.25 U), -41.1 mm (2.5 U), and -47.6 mm (5 U). The differences were significant at week 13 in the 1.25-U group (-14.9 mm; 95% CI -28.4 to -1.4 mm; p = 0.03) and 5-U group (-15.9 mm; 95% CI -29.0 to -2.7 mm; p = 0.01) compared with the placebo group. The dose-response improvement in the worst leg pain at week 13 was not significant (p = 0.14). The decrease in the worst leg pain in all 3 condoliase groups was observed from week 1 through week 52. Regarding the other end points, the worst back pain and results of the straight leg raise test, ODI, and SF-36 showed a tendency for sustained improvement in each of the condoliase groups until week 52. In all patients at all time points, plasma condoliase concentrations were below the detectable limit (< 100 μU/ml). Serum keratan sulfate concentrations significantly increased from baseline to 6 hours and 6 weeks after administration in all 3 condoliase groups. No patient died or developed anaphylaxis or neurological sequelae. Five serious AEs occurred in 5 patients (3 patients in the condoliase groups and 2 patients in the placebo group), resolved, and were considered unrelated to the investigational drug. Severe AEs occurred in 10 patients in the condoliase groups and resolved or improved. In the condoliase groups, back pain was the most frequent AE. Modic type 1 change and decrease in disc height were frequent imaging findings. Dose-response relationships were observed for the incidence of adverse drug reactions and decrease in disc height. CONCLUSIONS Condoliase significantly improved clinical symptoms in patients with LDH and was well tolerated. While all 3 doses had similar efficacy, the incidence of adverse drug reactions and decrease in disc height were dose dependent, thereby suggesting that 1.25 U would be the recommended clinical dose of condoliase. Clinical trial registration no.: NCT00634946 (clinicaltrials.gov).

[Suppressive effect of hydrogen sulfide donor on endothelin-1 production in aorta of atherosclerotic rats].

PubMed

Li, Wei; Du, Junbao; Jin, Hongfang

2015-06-01

To examine the effect of H2S donor, sodium hydrosulfide (NaHS), on ET-1 level in plasma and aorta in rats with atherosclerosis (AS). Thirty male rats, weighting 200-220 g, were randomly divided into AS, AS+NaHS and control groups, n = 10 in each group.Rats were given a single dose of vitamin D3 (700 000 U/kg) in the first three days and fed with a high-cholesterol diet for 8 weeks to induce AS. Rats in AS+NaHS group were intraperitoneally injected with an H2S donor NaHS, at a dose of 56 µmol/(kg·d) for 8 weeks. At the end of the experiment for 8 weeks, all the rats were sacrificed. The plasma was collected and the aorta and coronary tissues were isolated. The atherosclerotic lesions in both aorta and coronary arteries were detected using oil red O method. H2S concentration in plasma was determined with sulfide-sensitive electrode method. ET-1 levels in plasma and aorta were calculated by radioimmunoassay kit and the localization of ET-1 in the aorta was detected by immunohistochemistry. Plasma nitric oxide synthase (NOS), endothelial NOS (eNOS), inducible NOS (iNOS) were detected with colorimetry. AS plaque area in root of aorta of rats in AS group, AS+NaHS group and control group were (11.6±3.3)%, (1.6±1.1)%, (0.0±0.1)% respectively. The difference in AS plaque area in root of aorta among the three groups was statistically significant (F=97.675, P < 0.05). AS plaque area in coronary artery of rats in AS group, AS+NaHS group and control group were (21.4±5.7)%, (4.8±2.5)%, (0.0±0.0)% respectively. The difference in AS plaque area in coronary artery among the three groups was statistically significant (F=97.519, P < 0.05). Plasma H2S level in rats of AS group ((22.0±3.1) µmol/L) was significantly lower than that of control group ((27.9±1.0) µmol/L) and AS+NaHS group ((33.3±6.2) µmol/L, all P < 0.05). Compared with control group ((70.0±10.7) ng/L), plasma ET-1 in rats of AS group ((89.6±14.2) ng/L) and AS+NaHS group ((93.1±15.5) ng/L, P both < 0.05) were increased. However, there was no significant difference in plasma ET-1 content in rats between AS+NaHS group and AS group (P > 0.05). Compared with control group ((3.8±1.2) ng/g), ET-1 content in aorta in rats of AS group ((11.9±4.9) ng/g) and AS+NaHS group ((8.2±2.5) ng/g, both P < 0.05) were increased, and ET-1 content in aorta in rats of AS+NaHS group was decreased compared with AS group (P < 0.05). Immunochemistry results showed that ET expression in cytoplasm in aortic endothelial cells in rats of AS group was strengthened, while ET expression in rats of control group and AS+NaHS group was weak. NOS activity of rats in control group, AS group and AS+NaHS group was (25.4±5.6), (51.8±10.0) and (27.6±6.5) U/ml, eNOS activity (15.3±6.2), (4.5±2.7) and (8.7±3.9) U/ml, and iNOS activity (9.9±4.0), (47.3±10.7) and (19.0±5.2) U/ml, respectively.Differences among the three groups were statistically significant (NOS activity: F=37.231, P < 0.05, eNOS activity: F=14.600, P < 0.05, and iNOS activity: F=72.131, P < 0.05). H2S donor NaHS reduced the AS plaque in AS rats. The mechanisms might involve the protective effect of H2S on the vascular endothelial cell, decreasing ET-1 production in aortal endothelium of atherosclerotic rats.

Clinicopathological characteristics of clinical early gastric cancer in the upper-third stomach.

PubMed

Ichikawa, Daisuke; Komatsu, Shuhei; Kosuga, Toshiyuki; Konishi, Hirotaka; Okamoto, Kazuma; Shiozaki, Atsushi; Fujiwara, Hitoshi; Otsuji, Eigo

2015-12-07

To elucidate the clinicopathological characteristics of clinically early gastric cancer in the upper-third stomach and to clarify treatment precautions. A total of 683 patients with clinical early gastric cancer were enrolled in this retrospective study, 128 of whom had gastric cancer in the upper-third stomach (U group). All patients underwent a double contrast barium examination, endoscopy, and computed tomography (CT), and were diagnosed preoperatively based on the findings obtained. The clinicopathological features of these patients were compared with those of patients with gastric cancer in the middle- and lower-third stomach (ML group). We also compared clinicopathological factors between accurate-diagnosis and under-diagnosis groups in order to identify factors affecting the accuracy of a preoperative diagnosis of tumor depth. Patients in the U group were older (P = 0.029), had a higher ratio of males to females (P = 0.015), and had more histologically differentiated tumors (P = 0.007) than patients in the ML group. A clinical under-diagnosis occurred in 57 out of 683 patients (8.3%), and was more frequent in the U group than in the ML group (16.4% vs 6.3%, P < 0.0001). Therefore, the rates of lymph node metastasis and lymphatic invasion were slightly higher in the U group than in the ML group (P = 0.071 and 0.082, respectively). An under-diagnosis was more frequent in histologically undifferentiated tumors (P = 0.094) and in those larger than 4 cm (P = 0.024). The median follow-up period after surgery was 56 mo (range, 1-186 mo). Overall, survival and disease-specific survival rates were significantly lower in the U group than in the ML group (P = 0.016 and 0.020, respectively). However, limited operation-related cancer recurrence was not detected in the U group in the present study. Clinical early gastric cancer in the upper-third stomach has distinguishable characteristics that increase the risk of a clinical under-diagnosis, especially in patients with larger or undifferentiated tumors.

Chronic intermittent hypoxia causes hepatitis in a mouse model of diet-induced fatty liver.

PubMed

Savransky, Vladimir; Bevans, Shannon; Nanayakkara, Ashika; Li, Jianguo; Smith, Philip L; Torbenson, Michael S; Polotsky, Vsevolod Y

2007-10-01

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) causes chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) during sleep. OSA is associated with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) in obese individuals and may contribute to progression of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease from steatosis to NASH. The purpose of this study was to examine whether CIH induces inflammatory changes in the liver in mice with diet-induced hepatic steatosis. C57BL/6J mice (n = 8) on a high-fat, high-cholesterol diet were exposed to CIH for 6 mo and were compared with mice on the same diet exposed to intermittent air (control; n = 8). CIH caused liver injury with an increase in serum ALT (461 +/- 58 U/l vs. 103 +/- 16 U/l in the control group; P < 0.01) and AST (637 +/- 37 U/l vs. 175 +/- 13 U/l in the control group; P < 0.001), whereas alkaline phosphatase and total bilirubin levels were unchanged. Histology revealed hepatic steatosis in both groups, with mild accentuation of fat staining in the zone 3 hepatocytes in mice exposed to CIH. Animals exposed to CIH exhibited lobular inflammation and fibrosis in the liver, which were not evident in control mice. CIH caused significant increases in lipid peroxidation in serum and liver tissue; significant increases in hepatic levels of myeloperoxidase and proinflammatory cytokines IL-1beta, IL-6, and CXC chemokine MIP-2; a trend toward an increase in TNF-alpha; and an increase in alpha1(I)-collagen mRNA. We conclude that CIH induces lipid peroxidation and inflammation in the livers of mice on a high-fat, high-cholesterol diet.

Afghanistan: Post-Taliban Governance, Security, and U.S. Policy

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-07-21

presidency, but later joined Rabbani’s 5 A pharmaceutical plant in Sudan (Al Shifa... plant was strictly civilian in nature. 6 http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/4540958. Afghanistan: Post-Taliban Governance, Security, and U.S. Policy...commercially profitable for China Metallurgical Group, includes construction of two coal-fired electric power plant (one of which will supply more

Effect of lattice distortion on uranium magnetic moments in U4Ru7Ge6 studied by polarized neutron diffraction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vališka, Michal; Klicpera, Milan; Doležal, Petr; Fabelo, Oscar; Stunault, Anne; Diviš, Martin; Sechovský, Vladimír

2018-03-01

In a cubic ferromagnet, small spontaneous lattice distortions are expected below the Curie temperature, but the phenomenon is usually neglected. This study focuses on such an effect in the U4Ru7Ge6 compound. Based on DFT calculations, we propose a lattice distortion from the cubic I m -3 m space group to a lower, rhombohedral, symmetry described by the R -3 m space group. The strong spin-orbit coupling of the uranium ions plays an essential role in lowering the symmetry, giving rise to two different U sites (U1 and U2). Using polarized neutron diffraction in applied magnetic fields of 1 and 9 T in the ordered state (1.9 K ) and in the paramagnetic state (20 K ), we bring convincing experimental evidence of this splitting of the U sites, with different magnetic moments. The data have been analyzed both by maximum entropy calculations and by a direct fit in the dipolar approximation. In the ordered phase, the μL/μS ratio of the orbital and spin moments on the U2 site is remarkably lower than for the free U3 + or U4 + ion, which points to a strong hybridization of the U 5 f wave functions with the 4 d wave functions of the surrounding Ru. On the U1 site, the μL/μS ratio exhibits an unexpectedly low value: the orbital moment is almost quenched, like in metallic α -uranium. As a further evidence of the 5 f -4 d hybridization in the U4Ru7Ge6 system, we observe the absence of a magnetic moment on the Ru1 site, but a rather large induced moment on the Ru2 site, which is in closer coordination with both U positions. Very similar results are obtained at 20 K in the ferromagnetic regime induced by the magnetic field of 9 T . This shows that applying a strong magnetic field above the Curie temperature also leads to the splitting of the uranium sites, which further demonstrates the intimate coupling of the magnetic ordering and structural distortion. We propose that the difference between the magnetic moment on the U1 and U2 sites results from the strong spin-orbit interaction with different local point symmetries.

Epstein-Barr virus is related with 5-aminosalicylic acid, tonsillectomy, and CD19(+) cells in Crohn's disease.

PubMed

Andreu-Ballester, Juan C; Gil-Borrás, Rafael; García-Ballesteros, Carlos; Catalán-Serra, Ignacio; Amigo, Victoria; Fernández-Fígares, Virgina; Cuéllar, Carmen

2015-04-21

To study anti-Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) IgG antibodies in Crohn's disease in relation to treatment, immune cells, and prior tonsillectomy/appendectomy. This study included 36 CD patients and 36 healthy individuals (controls), and evaluated different clinical scenarios (new patient, remission and active disease), previous mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue removal (tonsillectomy and appendectomy) and therapeutic regimens (5-aminosalicylic acid, azathioprine, anti-tumor necrosis factor, antibiotics, and corticosteroids). T and B cells subsets in peripheral blood were analyzed by flow cytometry (markers included: CD45, CD4, CD8, CD3, CD19, CD56, CD2, CD3, TCRαβ and TCRγδ) to relate with the levels of anti-EBV IgG antibodies, determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The lowest anti-EBV IgG levels were observed in the group of patients that were not in a specific treatment (95.4 ± 53.9 U/mL vs 131.5 ± 46.2 U/mL, P = 0.038). The patients that were treated with 5-aminosalicylic acid showed the highest anti-EBV IgG values (144.3 U/mL vs 102.6 U/mL, P = 0.045). CD19(+) cells had the largest decrease in the group of CD patients that received treatment (138.6 vs 223.9, P = 0.022). The analysis of anti-EBV IgG with respect to the presence or absence of tonsillectomy showed the highest values in the tonsillectomy group of CD patients (169.2 ± 20.7 U/mL vs 106.1 ± 50.3 U/mL, P = 0.002). However, in the group of healthy controls, no differences were seen between those who had been tonsillectomized and subjects who had not been operated on (134.0 ± 52.5 U/mL vs 127.7 ± 48.1 U/mL, P = 0.523). High anti-EBV IgG levels in CD are associated with 5-aminosalicylic acid treatment, tonsillectomy, and decrease of CD19(+) cells.

Large-Pore 3D Cubic Mesoporous (KIT-6) Hybrid Bearing a Hard-Soft Donor Combined Ligand for Enhancing U(VI) Capture: An Experimental and Theoretical Investigation.

PubMed

Yuan, Li-Yong; Zhu, Lin; Xiao, Cheng-Liang; Wu, Qun-Yan; Zhang, Nan; Yu, Ji-Pan; Chai, Zhi-Fang; Shi, Wei-Qun

2017-02-01

A preorganized tetradentate phenanthrolineamide (DAPhen) ligand with hard and soft donors combined in the same molecule has been found to possess high extraction ability toward actinides over lanthanides from acidic aqueous solution in our previous work. Herein we grafted phenanthrolineamide groups onto a large-pore three-dimensional cubic silica support by the reaction of DAPhen siloxane with KIT-6 substrate to prepare a novel uranium-selective sorbent, KIT-6-DAPhen. The as-synthesized sorbent was well-characterized by scanning electron microscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, N 2 adsorption/desorption, X-ray diffraction, FT-IR, 13 C cross-polarization magic-angle spinning NMR, and TGA techniques, which confirmed the consummation of the functionalization. Subsequently, the effects of contact time, solution pH, initial U(VI) concentration, and the presence of competing metal ions on the U(VI) sorption onto KIT-6-DAPhen sorbent were investigated in detail. It was found that KIT-6-DAPhen showed largely enhanced sorption capacity and excellent selectivity toward U(VI). The maximum sorption capacity of KIT-6-DAPhen at pH 5.0 reaches 328 mg of U/g of sorbent, which is superior to most of functionalized mesoporous silica materials. Density functional theory coupled with quasi-relativistic small-core pseudopotentials was used to explore the sorption interaction between U(VI) and KIT-6-DAPhen, which gives a sorption reaction of KIT-6-DAPhen + [UO 2 (H 2 O) 5 ] 2+ + NO 3 - ⇄ [UO 2 (KIT-6-DAPhen)(NO 3 )] + + 5H 2 O. The findings of the present work provide new clues for developing new actinide sorbents by combining new ligands with various mesoporous matrixes.

The effects of oral plain kefir supplementation on proinflammatory cytokine properties of the hyperglycemia Wistar rats induced by streptozotocin.

PubMed

Hadisaputro, Suharyo; Djokomoeljanto, R R J; Judiono; Soesatyo, Marsetyawan H N E

2012-04-01

to validate the effect of plain kefir on immune responses of hyperglycemia wistar rats induced by Streptozotocin. the randomized pretest - posttest control group study design was conducted in male hyperglycemia Wistar rats induced by streptozotocin (STZ). Rats were randomized into four groups: (1) STZ-induced group were given insulin treatment 0.76 UI/200 g bw, (2) STZ-induced group and treated with plain kefir 3.6 cc/200 g bw/day for 30 days, (3) STZ-induced group as control, (4) normal animal group as a negative control. Blood glucose was measured from whole blood that was taken 0.1 ml from retroorbitalis vein by microhematocrit on day 1 (pretest) and day 30 (post test) by enzymatic methods. Immune responses (cytokines IL1, IL6, IL10, TNF) were measured by ELISA. Data were analyzed by one way Anova, Mann Whitney test and Duncan with significant level of p<0.05. plain kefir supplementation 3.6 cc/day affect blood glucose, proinflamatory cytokines (IL1, IL6, TNF) and antiinflamatory cytokine (IL10). Statistical analysis showed decrease of glucose -111.00±44.23 ml (p<0.001) and proinflamatory cytokines IL1 about -18.62±23.59 and IL6 -3.21±7.57 mU/mL (p<0.001), respectively compared to the control groups. TNF decreased 1.65±4.62 mU/mL, but not significant (p>0.05), except for controls group. In addition, antiinflammatory (IL10) showed also increase about 15.11±2.16 (p<0.05), except for the control. plain kefir supplementation significantly decreased blood glucose, level of cytokines (IL1, IL6) and lowered TNF level. On the contrary, the level of IL10 is increased compare to control groups.

New insulin glargine 300 U/ml versus glargine 100 U/ml in Japanese adults with type 1 diabetes using basal and mealtime insulin: glucose control and hypoglycaemia in a randomized controlled trial (EDITION JP 1)

PubMed Central

Koyama, M.; Cheng, X.; Takahashi, Y.; Riddle, M. C.; Bolli, G. B.; Hirose, T.

2016-01-01

Aim To compare efficacy and safety of new insulin glargine 300 U/ml (Gla‐300) with that of insulin glargine 100 U/ml (Gla‐100) in Japanese adults with type 1 diabetes. Methods The EDITION JP 1 study (NCT01689129) was a 6‐month, multicentre, open‐label, phase III study. Participants (n = 243) were randomized to Gla‐300 or Gla‐100 while continuing mealtime insulin. Basal insulin was titrated with the aim of achieving a fasting self‐monitored plasma glucose target of 4.4–7.2 mmol/l. The primary endpoint was change in glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) over 6 months. Safety measures included hypoglycaemia and change in body weight. Results Gla‐300 was non‐inferior to Gla‐100 for the primary endpoint of HbA1c change over the 6‐month period {least squares [LS] mean difference 0.13 % [95 % confidence interval (CI) −0.03 to 0.29]}. The annualized rate of confirmed (≤3.9 mmol/l) or severe hypoglycaemic events was 34 % lower with Gla‐300 than with Gla‐100 at night [rate ratio 0.66 (95 % CI 0.48–0.92)] and 20 % lower at any time of day [24 h; rate ratio 0.80 (95 % CI 0.65–0.98)]; this difference was most pronounced during the first 8 weeks of treatment. Severe hypoglycaemia was infrequent. The basal insulin dose increased in both groups (month 6 dose: Gla‐300 0.35 U/kg/day, Gla‐100 0.29 U/kg/day). A between‐treatment difference in body weight change over 6 months favouring Gla‐300 was observed [LS mean difference −0.6 kg (95 % CI −1.1 to −0.0); p = 0.035]. Adverse event rates were comparable between the groups. Conclusions In Japanese adults with type 1 diabetes using basal plus mealtime insulin, less hypoglycaemia was observed with Gla‐300 than with Gla‐100, particularly during the night, while glycaemic control did not differ. PMID:26662964

New insulin glargine 300 U/ml versus glargine 100 U/ml in Japanese adults with type 1 diabetes using basal and mealtime insulin: glucose control and hypoglycaemia in a randomized controlled trial (EDITION JP 1).

PubMed

Matsuhisa, M; Koyama, M; Cheng, X; Takahashi, Y; Riddle, M C; Bolli, G B; Hirose, T

2016-04-01

To compare efficacy and safety of new insulin glargine 300 U/ml (Gla-300) with that of insulin glargine 100 U/ml (Gla-100) in Japanese adults with type 1 diabetes. The EDITION JP 1 study (NCT01689129) was a 6-month, multicentre, open-label, phase III study. Participants (n = 243) were randomized to Gla-300 or Gla-100 while continuing mealtime insulin. Basal insulin was titrated with the aim of achieving a fasting self-monitored plasma glucose target of 4.4-7.2 mmol/l. The primary endpoint was change in glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) over 6 months. Safety measures included hypoglycaemia and change in body weight. Gla-300 was non-inferior to Gla-100 for the primary endpoint of HbA1c change over the 6-month period {least squares [LS] mean difference 0.13 % [95 % confidence interval (CI) -0.03 to 0.29]}. The annualized rate of confirmed (≤3.9 mmol/l) or severe hypoglycaemic events was 34 % lower with Gla-300 than with Gla-100 at night [rate ratio 0.66 (95 % CI 0.48-0.92)] and 20 % lower at any time of day [24 h; rate ratio 0.80 (95 % CI 0.65-0.98)]; this difference was most pronounced during the first 8 weeks of treatment. Severe hypoglycaemia was infrequent. The basal insulin dose increased in both groups (month 6 dose: Gla-300 0.35 U/kg/day, Gla-100 0.29 U/kg/day). A between-treatment difference in body weight change over 6 months favouring Gla-300 was observed [LS mean difference -0.6 kg (95 % CI -1.1 to -0.0); p = 0.035]. Adverse event rates were comparable between the groups. In Japanese adults with type 1 diabetes using basal plus mealtime insulin, less hypoglycaemia was observed with Gla-300 than with Gla-100, particularly during the night, while glycaemic control did not differ. © 2015 The Authors. Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Military Psychiatry: A Tri-Service Perspective.

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-01-01

Vietnam b6 conflict were virtually unknown, a contrast to World war II. Three percent of U. S. Air Force, 5% of U. S. Army, and 15% of U. S. Navy...of regression and separation from his task and group. Hypnosis and antipsychotic agents appear to be of little use in treatment. Hypnosis deprives the...conditions to mimic reality , indicated a 20% psychiatric casualty rate during a chemical warfare (CW) attack. In World war I, such cases were called

Plasma concentration of high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) after 100 drop to vertical jumps and after a 1200-km bicycle race.

PubMed

Behringer, M; Kilian, Y; Montag, J; Geesmann, B; Mester, J

2016-01-01

High-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) has recently been reported to be involved in proinflammation and tissue repair. Therefore, we hypothesized that HMGB1 is released into the bloodstream after eccentric exercises or prolonged endurance activities. Blood samples from 11 participants that performed 100 drop to vertical jumps (DVJ) and from 10 participants that took part in the 1200-km 'Paris-Brest-Paris' bicycle race (PBP) were tested for HMGB1 and creatine kinase (CK) levels. CK increased after both DVJ (pre: 150.6 ± 81.5 U/L; post: 188.8 ± 95.5 U/L 8 h: 790.5 ± 346.4 U/L) and PBP (pre: 81.3 ± 36.4 U/L; post: 725.2 ± 229.5 U/L; 12 h: 535.8 ± 188.6 U/L), indicating membrane damage. However, HMGB1 plasma levels remained below the detection limit (78 pg/mL) of the applied enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit for all blood samples analysed. That is, neither high intensity eccentric exercises (DVJ) nor prolonged endurance events (PBP) seemed to affect HMGB1 levels in blood at selected time points.

Optimization of small long-life PWR based on thorium fuel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Subkhi, Moh Nurul; Suud, Zaki; Waris, Abdul; Permana, Sidik

2015-09-01

A conceptual design of small long-life Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) using thorium fuel has been investigated in neutronic aspect. The cell-burn up calculations were performed by PIJ SRAC code using nuclear data library based on JENDL 3.2, while the multi-energy-group diffusion calculations were optimized in three-dimension X-Y-Z geometry of core by COREBN. The excess reactivity of thorium nitride with ZIRLO cladding is considered during 5 years of burnup without refueling. Optimization of 350 MWe long life PWR based on 5% 233U & 2.8% 231Pa, 6% 233U & 2.8% 231Pa and 7% 233U & 6% 231Pa give low excess reactivity.

Hyperinsulinemia 17 years after preeclamptic first pregnancy.

PubMed

Laivuori, H; Tikkanen, M J; Ylikorkala, O

1996-08-01

Insulin resistance syndrome predisposes to occlusive vascular disorders in nonpregnant subjects. Because preeclampsia, representing a pregnancy-specific occlusive vascular disorder, is known to be accompanied by metabolic changes similar to those in insulin resistance syndrome, we compared carbohydrate and lipid metabolism in 22 women who had a preeclamptic first pregnancy and in 22 control women who had normotensive first pregnancy, both, on the average, 17.0 +/- 0.7 yr earlier. The study groups were comparable in regard to body mass index at the follow-up study. Women with prior preeclampsia were normoglycemic (baseline, 3 h oral glucose tolerance), but showed a significant hyperinsulinemia, as seen from elevated immunoreactive insulin (IRI) levels at the baseline (mean +/- SE, 7.3 +/- 0.6 vs. 5.5 +/- 0.5 mU/L; P < 0.03), after 1 h (45.7 +/- 5.5 vs. 35.6 +/- 3.5 mU/L; P = 0.13), after 2 h (32.4 +/- 4.1 vs. 23.8 +/- 2.3 mU/L; P = 0.08), and after 3 h (10.1 +/- 1.4 vs. 6.4 +/- 0.6 mU/L; P = 0.02). The area under the IRI curve was larger in the women with prior preeclampsia (86.8 +/- 9.1 vs. 65.4 +/- 5.2 mU/h.L; P = 0.05). The serum levels of total cholesterol, high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (with its subfractions HDL2 and HDL3), low density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglyceride, or uric acid did not differ significantly between the study groups. In women with prior preeclamsia, the area under the IRI curve was negatively related to HDL2 cholesterol, but positively related to triglyceride and systolic blood pressure. We conclude that a history of preeclampsia is associated with mild hyperinsulinemia in nonpregnant women.

Periodic trends in hexanuclear actinide clusters.

PubMed

Diwu, Juan; Wang, Shuao; Albrecht-Schmitt, Thomas E

2012-04-02

Four new Th(IV), U(IV), and Np(IV) hexanuclear clusters with 1,2-phenylenediphosphonate as the bridging ligand have been prepared by self-assembly at room temperature. The structures of Th(6)Tl(3)[C(6)H(4)(PO(3))(PO(3)H)](6)(NO(3))(7)(H(2)O)(6)·(NO(3))(2)·4H(2)O (Th6-3), (NH(4))(8.11)Np(12)Rb(3.89)[C(6)H(4)(PO(3))(PO(3)H)](12)(NO(3))(24)·15H(2)O (Np6-1), (NH(4))(4)U(12)Cs(8)[C(6)H(4)(PO(3))(PO(3)H)](12)(NO(3))(24)·18H(2)O (U6-1), and (NH(4))(4)U(12)Cs(2)[C(6)H(4)(PO(3))(PO(3)H)](12)(NO(3))(18)·40H(2)O (U6-2) are described and compared with other clusters of containing An(IV) or Ce(IV). All of the clusters share the common formula M(6)(H(2)O)(m)[C(6)H(3)(PO(3))(PO(3)H)](6)(NO(3))(n)((6-n)) (M = Ce, Th, U, Np, Pu). The metal centers are normally nine-coordinate, with five oxygen atoms from the ligand and an additional four either occupied by NO(3)(-) or H(2)O. It was found that the Ce, U, and Pu clusters favor both C(3i) and C(i) point groups, while Th only yields in C(i), and Np only C(3i). In the C(3i) clusters, there are two NO(3)(-) anions bonded to the metal centers. In the C(i) clusters, the number of NO(3)(-) anions varies from 0 to 2. The change in the ionic radius of the actinide ions tunes the cavity size of the clusters. The thorium clusters were found to accept larger ions including Cs(+) and Tl(+), whereas with uranium and later elements, only NH(4)(+) and/or Rb(+) reside in the center of the clusters.

Enzymatic production of α-ketoglutaric acid from l-glutamic acid via l-glutamate oxidase.

PubMed

Niu, Panqing; Dong, Xiaoxiang; Wang, Yuancai; Liu, Liming

2014-06-10

In this study, a novel strategy for α-ketoglutaric acid (α-KG) production from l-glutamic acid using recombinant l-glutamate oxidase (LGOX) was developed. First, by analyzing the molecular structure characteristics of l-glutamic acid and α-KG, LGOX was found to be the best catalyst for oxidizing the amino group of l-glutamic acid to a ketonic group without the need for exogenous cofactor. Then the LGOX gene was expressed in Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3) in a soluble and active form, and the recombinant LGOX activity reached to a maximum value of 0.59U/mL at pH 6.5, 30°C. Finally, the maximum α-KG concentration reached 104.7g/L from 110g/L l-glutamic acid in 24h, under the following optimum conditions: 1.5U/mL LGOX, 250U/mL catalase, 3mM MnCl2, 30°C, and pH 6.5. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Synergism effects of pioglitazone and Urtica dioica extract in streptozotocin-induced nephropathy via attenuation of oxidative stress.

PubMed

Shokrzadeh, Mohammad; Sadat-Hosseini, Sara; Fallah, Marjan; Shaki, Fatemeh

2017-05-01

Hyperglycemia promotes oxidative stress that plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of Diabetic nephropathy (DN). In this study, we investigated the synergism effects of hydroalcoholic extract of Urtica dioica and pioglitazone (PIO) on the prevention of DN in streptozotocin induced-diabetic mice. Forty-two mice were divided into six groups as follows: non-diabetic control group, DMSO group (as solvent), diabetic group and four treatment groups which received U. dioica , pioglitazone, U. dioica plus pioglitazone and vitE. Diabetes was induced by a single dose of streptozotocin (STZ) (200 mg/kg body wt, IP) diluted in citrate buffer (pH= 4.6). After 4 weeks treatment, all animals were anaesthetized and blood was collected for serum urea and creatinine levels assessment in plasma and kidney tissue were excised for evaluation of oxidative stress markers. Treatment with U. dioica significantly inhibited increase in serum urea and creatinine in plasma that were observed in diabetic mice. Furthermore, the elevated level of oxidative stress markers (glutathione oxidation, lipid peroxidation (LPO), protein carbonyl) in renal supernatant of diabetic mice was inhibited by U. dioica treatment. Interestingly, U. dioica promoted beneficial effects of PIO in reducing STZ-induced hyperglycemia, renal damage and oxidative stress markers. Our findings showed that PIO plus U. dioica have synergism protective effects against STZ-induced nephropathy that can be a candidate as a therapeutic approach in order to treatment of DN.

Synergism effects of pioglitazone and Urtica dioica extract in streptozotocin-induced nephropathy via attenuation of oxidative stress

PubMed Central

Shokrzadeh, Mohammad; Sadat-hosseini, Sara; Fallah, Marjan; Shaki, Fatemeh

2017-01-01

Objective(s): Hyperglycemia promotes oxidative stress that plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of Diabetic nephropathy (DN). In this study, we investigated the synergism effects of hydroalcoholic extract of Urtica dioica and pioglitazone (PIO) on the prevention of DN in streptozotocin induced-diabetic mice. Materials and Methods: Forty-two mice were divided into six groups as follows: non-diabetic control group, DMSO group (as solvent), diabetic group and four treatment groups which received U. dioica, pioglitazone, U. dioica plus pioglitazone and vitE. Diabetes was induced by a single dose of streptozotocin (STZ) (200 mg/kg body wt, IP) diluted in citrate buffer (pH= 4.6). After 4 weeks treatment, all animals were anaesthetized and blood was collected for serum urea and creatinine levels assessment in plasma and kidney tissue were excised for evaluation of oxidative stress markers. Results: Treatment with U. dioica significantly inhibited increase in serum urea and creatinine in plasma that were observed in diabetic mice. Furthermore, the elevated level of oxidative stress markers (glutathione oxidation, lipid peroxidation (LPO), protein carbonyl) in renal supernatant of diabetic mice was inhibited by U. dioica treatment. Interestingly, U. dioica promoted beneficial effects of PIO in reducing STZ-induced hyperglycemia, renal damage and oxidative stress markers. Conclusion: Our findings showed that PIO plus U. dioica have synergism protective effects against STZ-induced nephropathy that can be a candidate as a therapeutic approach in order to treatment of DN. PMID:28656084

Whole-Body Exposure to 28Si-Radiation Dose-Dependently Disrupts Dentate Gyrus Neurogenesis and Proliferation in the Short Term and New Neuron Survival and Contextual Fear Conditioning in the Long Term.

PubMed

Whoolery, Cody W; Walker, Angela K; Richardson, Devon R; Lucero, Melanie J; Reynolds, Ryan P; Beddow, David H; Clark, K Lyles; Shih, Hung-Ying; LeBlanc, Junie A; Cole, Mara G; Amaral, Wellington Z; Mukherjee, Shibani; Zhang, Shichuan; Ahn, Francisca; Bulin, Sarah E; DeCarolis, Nathan A; Rivera, Phillip D; Chen, Benjamin P C; Yun, Sanghee; Eisch, Amelia J

2017-11-01

Astronauts traveling to Mars will be exposed to chronic low doses of galactic cosmic space radiation, which contains highly charged, high-energy (HZE) particles. 56 Fe-HZE-particle exposure decreases hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG) neurogenesis and disrupts hippocampal function in young adult rodents, raising the possibility of impaired astronaut cognition and risk of mission failure. However, far less is known about how exposure to other HZE particles, such as 28 Si, influences hippocampal neurogenesis and function. To compare the influence of 28 Si exposure on indices of neurogenesis and hippocampal function with previous studies on 56 Fe exposure, 9-week-old C57BL/6J and Nestin-GFP mice (NGFP; made and maintained for 10 or more generations on a C57BL/6J background) received whole-body 28 Si-particle-radiation exposure (0, 0.2 and 1 Gy, 300 MeV/n, LET 67 KeV/μ, dose rate 1 Gy/min). For neurogenesis assessment, the NGFP mice were injected with the mitotic marker BrdU at 22 h postirradiation and brains were examined for indices of hippocampal proliferation and neurogenesis, including Ki67 + , BrdU + , BrdU + NeuN + and DCX + cell numbers at short- and long-term time points (24 h and 3 months postirradiation, respectively). In the short-term group, stereology revealed fewer Ki67 + , BrdU + and DCX + cells in 1-Gy-irradiated group relative to nonirradiated control mice, fewer Ki67 + and DCX + cells in 0.2 Gy group relative to control group and fewer BrdU + and DCX + cells in 1 Gy group relative to 0.2 Gy group. In contrast to the clearly observed radiation-induced, dose-dependent reductions in the short-term group across all markers, only a few neurogenesis indices were changed in the long-term irradiated groups. Notably, there were fewer surviving BrdU + cells in the 1 Gy group relative to 0- and 0.2-Gy-irradiated mice in the long-term group. When the short- and long-term groups were analyzed by sex, exposure to radiation had a similar effect on neurogenesis indices in male and female mice, although only male mice showed fewer surviving BrdU + cells in the long-term group. Fluorescent immunolabeling and confocal phenotypic analysis revealed that most surviving BrdU + cells in the long-term group expressed the neuronal marker NeuN, definitively confirming that exposure to 1 Gy 28 Si radiation decreased the number of surviving adult-generated neurons in male mice relative to both 0- and 0.2-Gy-irradiated mice. For hippocampal function assessment, 9-week-old male C57BL/6J mice received whole-body 28 Si-particle exposure and were then assessed long-term for performance on contextual and cued fear conditioning. In the context test the animals that received 0.2 Gy froze less relative to control animals, suggesting decreased hippocampal-dependent function. However, in the cued fear conditioning test, animals that received 1 Gy froze more during the pretone portion of the test, relative to controls and 0.2-Gy-irradiated mice, suggesting enhanced anxiety. Compared to previously reported studies, these data suggest that 28 Si-radiation exposure damages neurogenesis, but to a lesser extent than 56 Fe radiation and that low-dose 28 Si exposure induces abnormalities in hippocampal function, disrupting fear memory but also inducing anxiety-like behavior. Furthermore, exposure to 28 Si radiation decreased new neuron survival in long-term male groups but not females suggests that sex may be an important factor when performing brain health risk assessment for astronauts traveling in space.

Studies on the biosynthesis of taxol: the taxane carbon skeleton is not of mevalonoid origin.

PubMed Central

Eisenreich, W; Menhard, B; Hylands, P J; Zenk, M H; Bacher, A

1996-01-01

A cell culture of Taxus chinensis was established to produce the diterpene 2alpha,5alpha,10beta,14beta-tetra-acetoxy4 ++ +(20),11-taxadiene (taxuyunnanine C) in 2.6% (dry weight) yield. The incorporation of [U-13C6]glucose, [1-13C]glucose, and [1,2-13C2]acetate into this diterpene was analyzed by NMR spectroscopy. Label from [1,2-13C2]acetate was diverted to the four acetyl groups of taxuyunnanine C, but not to the taxane ring system. Label from [1-13C]glucose and [U-13C6]glucose was efficiently incorporated into both the taxane ring system and the acetyl groups. The four isoprenoid moieties of the diterpene showed identical labeling patterns. The analysis of long-range 13C13C couplings in taxuyunnanine C obtained from an experiment with [U-13C6]glucose documents the involvement of an intramolecular rearrangement in the biosynthesis of the isoprenoid precursor. The labeling patterns are inconsistent with the mevalonate pathway. The taxoid data share important features with the alternative pathway of isoprenoid biosynthesis operating in certain eubacteria Rohmer, M., Knani, M., Simonin, P., Sutter, B. & Sahm, H. (1993) Biochem. J. 295, 517-524]. Images Fig. 1 Fig. 4 PMID:8692832

[Effects of Anluohuaxianwan on transforming growth factor-β1 and related signaling pathways in rats with carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis].

PubMed

Lu, W; Gao, Y H; Wang, Z Z; Cai, Y S; Yang, Y Q; Miao, Y Q; Pei, F; Liu, X E; Zhuang, H

2017-04-20

Objective: The traditional Chinese medicine Anluohuaxianwan (ALHXW) has been used to treat liver fibrosis induced by chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. However, the anti-fibrosis mechanisms of ALHXW remain to be investigated. This study used a rat model of carbon tetrachloride (CCl(4))-induced liver fibrosis to explore the potential antifibrogenic mechanisms of ALHXW. Methods: Twenty-seven male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to control group, model group, and treatment group ( n = 9 per group). Rats in the model and treatment group were injected intraperitoneally with 40% CCl(4)(2 ml/kg), and rats in the control group were administered saline twice a week for 6 weeks. Starting at week 4 following model construction, rats in the treatment group received daily gavages with ALHXW solution (concentration 0.15 g/ml) daily, while rats in the control and model groups were given saline for a total of 6 weeks. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were measured from blood samples collected at the end of weeks 3, 6 and 9. Histopathological examination of liver tissue was performed to evaluate liver fibrosis at week 9. At the same time, the mRNA expression of TGF-β1 and Smads in liver tissues was quantified by real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and TGF-β1 protein level in the liver was measured by Western blot. Inter-group comparison was performed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) when the continuous data were normally distributed and satisfied the homogeneity of variance; otherwise, nonparametric tests were used. Categorical data were compared between groups using nonparametric tests. Results: ALHXW markedly alleviated liver injury in the treatment group after 3 weeks of therapy as indicated by a significantly reduced level of ALT compared with the model group [(162.98 ± 73.14)U/L vs (322.52 ± 131.76)U/L, P = 0.047], and a 39.8% reduction in AST level compared with the model group[ (537.56 ± 306.06)U/L vs (892.98 ± 358.19)U/L, P = 0.053]. Moreover, at the end of the 6-week therapy, histopathological diagnosis showed that liver fibrosis was significantly reduced in the ALHXW-treated group compared with that in the model group ( P = 0.002). The relative expression of TGF-β1 mRNA and protein in the liver were significantly lower in ALHXW-treated rats than that in model rats (1.34 ± 0.31 vs 1.78 ± 0.45, P = 0.025; 0.39 ± 0.02 vs 0.57 ± 0.04, P = 0.003). Conclusion: ALHXW treatment can reverse CCl(4)-induced liver fibrosis in rats. Its mechanisms of anti-fibrosis may occur through the inhibition of TGF-β1 synthesis and TGF-β1/Smads signaling pathway, which in turn suppress the activation of hepatic stellate cells and thereby reverses fibrosis.

Tetra- and Hexavalent Uranium Forms Bidentate-Mononuclear Complexes with Particulate Organic Matter in a Naturally Uranium-Enriched Peatland.

PubMed

Mikutta, Christian; Langner, Peggy; Bargar, John R; Kretzschmar, Ruben

2016-10-04

Peatlands frequently serve as efficient biogeochemical traps for U. Mechanisms of U immobilization in these organic matter-dominated environments may encompass the precipitation of U-bearing mineral(oid)s and the complexation of U by a vast range of (in)organic surfaces. The objective of this work was to investigate the spatial distribution and molecular binding mechanisms of U in soils of an alpine minerotrophic peatland (pH 4.7-6.6, E h = -127 to 463 mV) using microfocused X-ray fluorescence spectrometry and bulk and microfocused U L 3 -edge X-ray absorption spectroscopy. The soils contained 2.3-47.4 wt % organic C, 4.1-58.6 g/kg Fe, and up to 335 mg/kg geogenic U. Uranium was found to be heterogeneously distributed at the micrometer scale and enriched as both U(IV) and U(VI) on fibrous and woody plant debris (48 ± 10% U(IV), x̅ ± σ, n = 22). Bulk U X-ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) spectroscopy revealed that in all samples U(IV) comprised 35-68% of total U (x̅ = 50%, n = 15). Shell-fit analyses of bulk U L 3 -edge extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) spectra showed that U was coordinated to 1.3 ± 0.2 C atoms at a distance of 2.91 ± 0.01 Å (x̅ ± σ), which implies the formation of bidentate-mononuclear U(IV/VI) complexes with carboxyl groups. We neither found evidence for U shells at ∼3.9 Å, indicative of mineral-associated U or multinuclear U(IV) species, nor for a substantial P/Fe coordination of U. Our data indicates that U(IV/VI) complexation by natural organic matter prevents the precipitation of U minerals as well as U complexation by Fe/Mn phases at our field site, and suggests that organically complexed U(IV) is formed via reduction of organic matter-bound U(VI).

Fasting time duration modulates the onset of insulin-induced hypoglycemic seizures in mice.

PubMed

Pitchaimani, Vigneshwaran; Arumugam, Somasundaram; Thandavarayan, Rajarajan Amirthalingam; Karuppagounder, Vengadeshprabhu; Afrin, Mst Rejina; Sreedhar, Remya; Harima, Meilei; Suzuki, Hiroshi; Miyashita, Shizuka; Nakamura, Takashi; Suzuki, Kenji; Nakamura, Masahiko; Ueno, Kazuyuki; Watanabe, Kenichi

2016-09-01

Fasting (48h) in mice causes resistance to insulin-induced hypoglycemic seizures (IIHS) but in rats fasting (14-16h) predisposes IIHS. So we suspect the duration of fasting may possibly affect the onset of seizures and in this study, we investigated the IIHS by administering 8 Units (U) insulin (INS)/k.g., intraperitoneally to 8 weeks old male C57BL6/J mice. The mice were divided into group 1 (non-fasted), group 2 (6h fasted) and group 3 (24h fasted) and we administered the 8U INS. The first behavioral hypoglycemic seizure symptoms such as jump, clonus or barrel rotations considered as seizure onset and we analyzed the blood glucose level (BGL) and serum beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) level. The time of first seizure onset in group 1 was 109.7±4.3min, group 2 was 46.50±3.9min and group 3 was 165.4±13.26min. The seizure onset time in group 2 was significantly decreased compared to group 1. The seizure onset time in group 3 was significantly increased compared to group 1 and group 2. The decreased BGL after INS administration was correlated with the seizure onset time in group 1 and group 2 but not in group 3. The BHB level in group 3 was significantly higher compared to group 1 and 2. Our data show that the fasting time duration significantly modulates the onset of hypoglycemic seizures. The opposite effect of 6h or 24h fasting time duration is likely caused by different BHB levels. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of serum CA27.29, CA15-3 and CEA in patients with breast cancer.

PubMed

Hou, M F; Chen, Y L; Tseng, T F; Lin, C M; Chen, M S; Huang, C J; Huang, Y S; Hsieh, J S; Huang, T J; Jong, S B; Huang, Y F

1999-09-01

The Truquant BR radioimmunoassay (RIA) using monoclonal antibody BR 27.29 to recognize a peptide sequence on the MUC-1 gene product for quantification of the CA 27.29 antigen in serum was used in this report to evaluate in 145 patients with breast cancer and compared the other conventional serum markers such as CA15-3 and CEA. The upper limit of normal (25 u/ml) was determined from CA27.29 values 12.4 +/- 4.1 u/ml (mean +/- 3 S.D.) for 112 female subjects apparently free of disease. The CA15-3 levels above 25 u/ml and CEA levels above 5 ng/ml were considered positive values. Thirty-seven cases of 145 patients studied had elevated CA 27.29 levels (sensitivity: 25.5%), 35 of 145 had positive CA15-3 levels (sensitivity 24.1%) and 27 of 145 patients had positive CEA levels (sensitivity: 18.6%) (p < 0.05). One hundred and ten cases of the breast cancer patients (75.8%) did not have metastatic disease. In this group CA 27.29 sensitivity was 6.4%, while CA15-3 sensitivity was 5.5% and CEA sensitivity was 4.5% (p > 0.05). Mean values were 10.2 +/- 9.2 u/ml for CA 27.29, 14.1 +/- 5.6 u/ml for CA 15-3 and 1.7 +/- 1.5 ng/ml for CEA. Thirty-five patients (24.2%) had metastatic disease. In this group CA 27.29 sensitivity was 85.7%, CA15-3 sensitivity was 82.8% and CEA sensitivity was 62.8% (p < 0.05). Mean values for CA27.29 was 152.6 +/- 131.6 u/ml, CA15-3 was 123.1 +/- 107.6 u/ml and 21.8 +/- 36.9 ng/ml of CEA. With regard to the correlation of three tumor markers with clinical stages, patients had significantly higher levels of CA27.29 than CEA, but they were similar to CA 15-3 in metastatic breast cancer. These results suggest CA27.29 to be more sensitive and specific than CEA, but that it is similar to CA15-3 for metastatic breast cancer detection and monitoring.

Duration of U.S. residence and suicidality among racial/ethnic minority immigrants.

PubMed

Brown, Monique J; Cohen, Steven A; Mezuk, Briana

2015-02-01

The immigration experience embodies a range of factors including different cultural norms and expectations, which may be particularly important for groups who become racial/ethnic minorities when they migrate to the U.S. However, little is known about the correlates of mental health indicators among these groups. The primary and secondary aims were to determine the association between duration of U.S. residence and suicidality, and 12-month mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, respectively, among racial/ethnic minority immigrants. Data were obtained from the National Survey of American Life and the National Latino and Asian American Survey. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine the association between duration of US residence, and suicidality and 12-month psychopathology. Among Afro-Caribbeans, there was a modest positive association between duration of U.S. residence and 12-month psychopathology (P linear trend = 0.016). Among Asians there was a modest positive association between duration of US residence and suicidal ideation and attempts (P linear trend = 0.018, 0.063, respectively). Among Latinos, there was a positive association between duration of US residence, and suicidal ideation, attempts and 12-month psychopathology (P linear trend = 0.001, 0.012, 0.002, respectively). Latinos who had been in the U.S. for >20 years had 2.6 times greater likelihood of suicidal ideation relative to those who had been in the U.S. for <5 years (95% CI 1.01-6.78). The association between duration of US residence and suicidality and psychopathology varies across racial/ethnic minority groups. The results for Latino immigrants are broadly consistent with the goal-striving or acculturation stress hypothesis.

Spectroscopic confirmation of the optical identification of X-ray sources used to determine accurate positions for the anomalous X-ray pulsars 1E 2259+58.6 and 4U 0142+61

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

van den Berg, M.; Verbunt, F.

2001-03-01

Optical spectra show that two proposed counterparts for X-ray sources detected near 1E 2259+58.6 are late G stars, and a proposed counterpart for a source near 4U 0142+61 is a dMe star. The X-ray luminosities are as expected for such stars. We thus confirm the optical identification of the three X-ray objects, and thereby the correctness of the accurate positions for 1E 2259+58.6 and 4U 0142+61 based on them. Based on observations made with the William Herschel Telescope operated on the island of La Palma by the Isaac Newton Group in the Spanish Observatorio del Roque de los Muchachos of the Instituto de Astrofisica de Canarias.

[Paraspinal muscle approach with winglike working channel in the treatment of thoracic and lumbar spine fracture].

PubMed

Qi, Lei; Li, Mu; Si, Haipeng; Zhang, Shuai; Jiang, Yunpeng; Xue, Jingsong

2015-04-01

To evaluate the clinical and radiological efficacy of paraspinal muscle approach with winglike working channel in the treatment of thoracic and lumbar spine fracture. From October 2010 to August 2012, a total of 51 patients with thoracic and lumbar spine fractures without neurological symptoms were enrolled in the study, including 32 males and 19 females. All patients were divided into two groups: 26 patients were treated through posterior paraspinal muscle approach with winglike working channel, and 25 patients were treated through traditional posterior approach. In all patients, the interval between injury and operation was less than two weeks; the vertebral canal blocked area was less than 1/3 in sagittal diameter; the compression of the fractured vertebra height was less than 2/3. And the patients with pathological fracture and severe osteoporosis were excluded. The perioperative index including operative blood loss, draining loss, operative time, postoperative bed time were recorded. The clinical results were evaluated by visual analogue scale (VAS) for back pain preoperatively, at 3 days, 3 months, the last follow-up postoperatively and modified Macnab criteria at the last follow-up. The radiological results were evaluated by sagittal Cobb angle and the anterior height of the fractured vertebra. The data of two groups were compared statistically with paired and independent t test, χ² test, Mann-Whitney U test and Wilcoxon test. All patients were followed up with average of 16.6 months. In the two groups, the operative blood loss was respectively (91.5 ± 36.6) ml and (209.2 ± 38.3) ml (t=-11.216, P=0.000), draining loss was (13.7±4.4) ml and (162.3 ± 56.6) ml (t=-13.352, P=0.000), postoperative bed time was (87.3 ± 11.5) hours and (118.4 ± 20.4) hours (t=-6.727, P=0.000), VAS for back pain at 3 days postoperatively was 5.5 ± 1.0 and 6.4 ± 0.8 (t=-3.304, P=0.002), also VAS at the last follow-up was 1.0 (1.0) and 2.0 (1.0) (U=191.0, P=0.008). Data above showed significant differences between the two groups.No significant differences were found in operative time, (109.0 ± 29.7) min vs. (119.2 ± 26.8) min (t=-1.283, P=0.206), and modified Macnab criteria (χ²=0.513, P=0.774) between the two groups. The anterior height of the fractured vertebra preoperatively, at 1 week and the last follow-up postoperatively of the two groups were respectively (57.2 ± 11.8)% and (55.2 ± 10.9)% (t=0.685, P=0.496), (95.2 ± 8.3)% and (95.3 ± 5.8%) (t=-0.068, P=0.946), (92.9 ± 6.7)% and (92.1 ± 5.6)% (t=0.505, P=0.615). The sagittal Cobb angles preoperatively, at 1 week and the last follow-up postoperatively of the two groups were respectively 21.0° (12.5°) and 23.0° (12.0°) (U=316.0, P=0.544), 3.0° (5.5°) and 4.0° (4.5°) (U=342.5, P=0.893), 4.0° (5.5°) and 6.0° (6.0°) (U=328.5, P=0.701). There were no significant differences of these radiological results between the two groups in the same time point. The paraspinal muscle approach with winglike working channel in the treatment of thoracic and lumbar spine fracture is an efficient surgical option which can acquire satisfactory clinical and radiological results.

Four Week Oral Toxicity Study of WR242511 in Dogs. Volume 2

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-06-03

10^6/cmm Erythrocytes 0.00 NO 6.00 6.00 8.00 8.00 2. HGB g/dL Hemoglobin 0.0 NO 12.0 12.0 19.0 19.0 3. HCT % Hematocrit 0.0 NO 35.0 35.0...IS/ UU CAJ U INDIVIDUAL ANIMAL HEMATOLOGY REPORT BY GROUP TEST : Erythrocytes STUDY ID: 134 SEX: MALE STUDY NO: 134 • ABBR...FOUR WEEK ORAL TOXICITY STUDY OF WR242511 IN DOGS DRAFT INDIVIDUAL ANIMAL HEMATOLOGY REPORT BY GROUP TEST: Erythrocytes STUDY ID: 134 STUDY NO

Effect of Body Composition on Physiological Responses to Cold-Water Immersion and the Recovery of Exercise Performance.

PubMed

Stephens, Jessica M; Halson, Shona L; Miller, Joanna; Slater, Gary J; Chapman, Dale W; Askew, Christopher D

2018-03-01

To explore the influence of body composition on thermal responses to cold-water immersion (CWI) and the recovery of exercise performance. Male subjects were stratified into 2 groups: low fat (LF; n = 10) or high fat (HF; n = 10). Subjects completed a high-intensity interval test (HIIT) on a cycle ergometer followed by a 15-min recovery intervention (control [CON] or CWI). Core temperature (T c ), skin temperature, and heart rate were recorded continuously. Performance was assessed at baseline, immediately post-HIIT, and 40 min postrecovery using a 4-min cycling time trial (TT), countermovement jump (CMJ), and isometric midthigh pull (IMTP). Perceptual measures (thermal sensation [TS], total quality of recovery [TQR], soreness, and fatigue) were also assessed. T c and TS were significantly lower in LF than in HF from 10 min (T c, LF 36.5°C ± 0.5°C, HF 37.2°C ± 0.6°C; TS, LF 2.3 ± 0.5 arbitrary units [a.u.], HF 3.0 ± 0.7 a.u.) to 40 min (T c , LF 36.1°C ± 0.6°C, HF 36.8°C ±0.7°C; TS, LF 2.3 ± 0.6 a.u., HF 3.2 ± 0.7 a.u.) after CWI (P < .05). Recovery of TT performance was significantly enhanced after CWI in HF (10.3 ± 6.1%) compared with LF (3.1 ± 5.6%, P = .01); however, no differences were observed between HF (6.9% ±5.7%) and LF (5.4% ± 5.2%) with CON. No significant differences were observed between groups for CMJ, IMTP, TQR, soreness, or fatigue in either condition. Body composition influences the magnitude of T c change during and after CWI. In addition, CWI enhanced performance recovery in the HF group only. Therefore, body composition should be considered when planning CWI protocols to avoid overcooling and maximize performance recovery.

The Healthy Immigrant (Migrant) Effect: In Search of a Better Native-Born Comparison Group*

PubMed Central

Hamilton, Tod G.

2016-01-01

This paper evaluates whether immigrants’ initial health advantage over their U.S.-born counterparts results primarily from characteristics correlated with their birth countries (e.g., immigrant culture) or from selective migration (e.g., unobserved characteristics such as motivation and ambition) by comparing recent immigrants’ health to that of recent U.S.-born interstate migrants (“U.S.-born movers”). Using data from the 1999–2013 waves of the March Current Population Survey, I find that, relative to U.S.-born adults (collectively), recent immigrants have a 6.1 percentage point lower probability of reporting their health as fair or poor. Changing the reference group to U.S.-born movers, however, reduces the recent immigrant health advantage by 28%. Similar reductions in the immigrant health advantage occurs in models estimated separately by either race/ethnicity or education level. Models that examine health differences between recent immigrants and U.S-born movers who both moved for a new job—a primary motivation behind moving for both immigrants and the U.S.-born—show that such immigrants have only a 1.9 percentage point lower probability of reporting their health as fair or poor. Together, the findings suggest that changing the reference group from U.S.-born adults collectively to U.S.-born movers reduces the identified immigrant health advantage, indicating that selective migration plays a significant role in explaining the initial health advantage of immigrants in the United States. PMID:26463553

[Effect of methylene chloride upon hepatic ischemic reperfusion injury].

PubMed

Yang, Ding-hua; Zhang, Hua; Huang, Yu; Zhou, Jie

2009-12-15

To investigate the effects and mechanisms of methylene chloride (MC) in hepatic ischemic reperfusion injury. Eighty SD-rats were divided equally into 4 groups: control group (n = 20), donors without any treatment; CoPP group (n = 20), donors injected with CoPP (5 mg/kg, ip) at 24 h; ZnPP group (n = 20), donors injected with ZnPP (20 mg/kg, ip) at 24 h; MC group (n = 20), donors fed with MC (500 mg/kg) per day for 7 days before graft procurement. Syngeneic orthotopic liver transplantation was performed in rats with modified Kamada's two-cuff technique. And SD rats were used as donors (n = 10)and recipients respectively. 5 recipients in each group were sacrificed and the grafts were procured at day 3 after transplantation, the post-operative survival time was observed in the remnant. The tests were determined as following: the level of serum ALT, AST in recipients; heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) expression of graft was tested by immunohistochemistry and Western blot; the index of graft apoptosis examined by TUNEL method; the pathology of graft assessed by Suzuki's criteria. The level of serum ALT [(65 +/- 28) U/L], AST [(187 +/- 43) U/L] in CoPP and ALT [(75 +/- 16) U/L], AST [(185 +/- 42) U/L] in MC group was significantly lower than that ALT [(346 +/- 45) U/L], AST [(474 +/- 90) U/L] in control group and ALT [(578 +/- 75) U/L], AST [(1084 +/- 128) U/L] in ZnPP group (P < 0.01). The median expression of HO-1 in MC group was no significantly different with that in control group (P > 0.05). While the median expression of HO-1 in CoPP group was higher than that in control group (P < 0.05). The index of graft apoptosis in MC group and CoPP group, 4.1% +/- 0.6% and 3.2% +/- 0.8% respectively, was significantly lower than that (12.5% +/- 2.4%) in control group and (25.8% +/- 3.1%) in ZnPP group (P < 0.05). Compared with the other two groups, MC and CoPP groups had lesser neutrophil infiltration and a lower grade of hepatocytic injury in grafts. Suzuki's scores in grafts of MC and CoPP groups were lower than that in control and ZnPP groups (P < 0.05). The median post-transplantation survival time of the recipients in MC and CoPP groups was 100 and 93 days respectively while that in control and ZnPP groups was 85 and 12 days (P < 0.05). Over-expression of HO-1 and MC both have protective effects in hepatic ischemic reperfusion injury.

[Efficacy and safety of ultrasound-guided or neurostimulator-guided bilateral axillary brachial plexus block].

PubMed

Xu, C S; Zhao, X L; Zhou, H B; Qu, Z J; Yang, Q G; Wang, H J; Wang, G

2017-10-17

Objective: To explore the efficacy and safety of bilateral axillary brachial plexus block under the guidance of ultrasound or neurostimulator. Methods: From February 2012 to April 2014, 120 patients undergoing bilateral hand/forearm surgery in Beijing Jishuitan Hospital were enrolled and anaesthetized with bilateral axillary brachial plexus block. All patients were divided into two groups randomly using random number table: the ultrasound-guided group (group U, n =60) and the neurostimulator-guidedgroup (group N, n =60). The block was performed with 0.5% ropivacaine. Patients' age, sex and operation duration were recorded. Moreover, success rate, performance time, onset of sensor and motor block, performance pain, patient satisfaction degree and the incidence of related complications were also documented. Venous samples were collected at selected time points and the total and the plasma concentrations of ropivacaine were analyzed with HPLC. Results: The performance time, the onset of sensor block and the onset of motor block of group U were (8.2±1.5), (14.2± 2.2)and (24.0±3.5)min respectively, which were markedly shorter than those in group N( (14.6±3.9), (19.9±3.8), (28.8±4.2)min, respectively), and the differences were statistically significant( t =11.74, 10.09, 6.73, respectively, all P <0.01). The performance pain score of group N was (25.5± 13.2), which was obviously more serious than group U (31.7± 11.2) and a significant statistical difference was detected ( t =2.856, P <0.05). The patient satisfaction degree of group U was 95.0%, which was significantly higher than group N (83.3%) and a markedly statistical difference was detected (χ(2)=4.227, P <0.05). Fifty min after performance, the total plasma concentration of ropivacaine of group U was(1.76±0.48)mg/L, which was significantly lower than group N (1.88±0.53)mg/L and a significant statistical difference was detected ( t =2.43, P <0.05), while no significant differences were detected at the other time points between two groups ( P >0.05). No analgesic was superadded and no other anesthesia methods were applied. No complications were detected perioperatively. Conclusions: The bilateral axillary brachial plexus block under the guidance of ultrasound or neurostimulator are both effective and safe for bilateral hand/forearm surgery. However, the ultrasound-guided block may be more clinically beneficial because of its shorter performance time, rapid onset and higher patient satisfaction degree.

Assignment Problem for the U.S. Marine Corps: Regional, Culture, and Language Familiarization Program

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-12-01

patients. The top trading cycle is popular in market design because it can be Pareto efficient and strategy proof when making assignments such as...29 1. Results for Group 1: Platoons 1 and 2 .............................................29 2...Results for Group 2: Platoons 3 and 4 .............................................31 3. Results for Group 3: Platoons 5 and 6

Intradetrusor injections of onabotulinum toxin A (Botox®) 300 U or 200 U versus abobotulinum toxin A (Dysport®) 750 U in the management of neurogenic detrusor overactivity: A case control study.

PubMed

Peyronnet, Benoit; Castel-Lacanal, Evelyne; Roumiguie, Mathieu; Even, Lucie; Marque, Philippe; Soulié, Michel; Rischmann, Pascal; Game, Xavier

2017-03-01

To compare the outcomes of the first intradetrusor injections of abobotulinum toxin 750 U and onabotulinum toxin 200 and 300 U in patients with neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO). A retrospective case-control study was conducted including 211 NDO patients treated in three consecutives eras with onabotulinum toxin 300 U (2004-2006; 80 patients), abobotulinum toxin 750 U (2007-2011; 78 patients) or onabotulinum toxin 200 U (2011-2014; 53 patients). Urodynamic and clinical parameters were compared between groups. The primary endpoint was the rates of success defined as the combination of urgency, urinary incontinence, and detrusor overactivity resolution. When comparing abobotulinum toxin to onabotulinum toxin any doses (200 or 300 U; n = 133), success rates were similar (65.4% vs. 55.6%; P = 0.16). Patients treated with abobotulinum toxin 750 U had higher success rate (65.4% vs. 41.5%; P = 0.007) compared to those who received onabotulinum toxin 200 U. In contrast, there were similar success rates in abobotulinum toxin 750 U and onabotulinum toxin 300 U groups (65.4% vs. 65%; P = 0.91) but with a trend towards longer interval between the first and the second injection in the onabotulinum toxin 300 U group (12.4 vs. 9.3 months; P = 0.09). Intradetrusor injections of abobotulinum toxin 750 U for NDO provided better outcomes than injections of onabotulinum toxin 200 U. Success rates of abobotulinum toxin 750 U and onabotulinum toxin 300 U were similar but interval between injections tended to be longer with onabotulinum toxin 300 U. Neurourol. Urodynam. 36:734-739, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

6. Historic American Buildings Survey Photocopy of plan and profile ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

6. Historic American Buildings Survey Photocopy of plan and profile dated 1850 and signed by Gridley Bryant, in Records of U. S. Coast Guard, Record Group 26, National Archives, Washington, D. C. 20408 EARLIER BUILDINGS ON THE SITE - Boon Island Light Tower, Cape Neddick, York County, ME

Sustained glycaemic control and less nocturnal hypoglycaemia with insulin glargine 300U/mL compared with glargine 100U/mL in Japanese adults with type 1 diabetes (EDITION JP 1 randomised 12-month trial including 6-month extension).

PubMed

Matsuhisa, Munehide; Koyama, Masayoshi; Cheng, Xi; Sumi, Mariko; Riddle, Matthew C; Bolli, Geremia B; Hirose, Takahisa

2016-12-01

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of insulin glargine 300U/mL (Gla-300) versus glargine 100U/mL (Gla-100) in adults with type 1 diabetes in Japan over 12months. EDITION JP 1 was a multicentre, randomised, open-label phase 3 study. Following a 6-month on-treatment period, participants continued to receive Gla-300 or Gla-100 once daily, plus mealtime insulin, over a 6-month open-label extension phase. HbA1c, hypoglycaemia, body weight and adverse events were assessed. Overall, 114/122 (93%) and 114/121 (94%) of participants in the Gla-300 and Gla-100 group, respectively, completed the 6-month extension phase. Glycaemic control was sustained in both groups up to month 12 (mean HbA1c: Gla-300, 7.9% [62mmol/mol]; Gla-100, 7.8% [62mmol/mol]). Annualised rates of hypoglycaemia were lower with Gla-300 versus Gla-100; significantly for nocturnal confirmed (<3.0mmol/L [<54mg/dL]) or severe hypoglycaemia (2.39 and 3.85 events per participant-year; rate ratio: 0.62 [0.39-0.97]). No between-treatment differences in mean body weight change or adverse events were observed. Over 12months' treatment, participants with type 1 diabetes receiving Gla-300 achieved sustained glycaemic control and experienced less nocturnal hypoglycaemia that was confirmed (<3.0mmol/L [<54mg/dL]) or severe compared with Gla-100, supporting the 6-month results. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

The influence of demeanor on scores from two validated feline pain assessment scales during the perioperative period.

PubMed

Buisman, Mandy; Hasiuk, Michelle M M; Gunn, Marta; Pang, Daniel S J

2017-05-01

To evaluate the effects of demeanor on validated pain assessment scales. Prospective, blind, clinical trial. Thirty three adult domestic cats scheduled for orchiectomy. Cats were assessed for pain pre (baseline) and 1, 2, 4 hours postoperatively using two validated pain scales [Composite Measures Pain Scale-Feline (rCMPS-F) and UNESP-Botucatu multidimensional composite pain scale (psychomotor and pain expression subscales; U-B MCPS-psych and -painex)], and a demeanor scale. Return of sternal recumbency and postoperative feeding were recorded. Anesthesia consisted of a single intramuscular injection of dexmedetomidine-ketamine-hydromorphone with intratesticular lidocaine and atipamezole and meloxicam postoperatively. Following data collection, cats were assigned to two groups based on baseline demeanor scores (LO ≤ 5/21, 18 cats; HI ≥ 6/21, 15 cats) and data from each group compared. Baseline demeanor predicted pain scores with the U-B MCPS-psych scale: baseline [LO 0 (0-0), HI 2 (0-6), p = 0.0005], 1 hour [LO 1 (0-5), HI 3 (1-5), p = 0.02], and 4 hours [LO 0 (0-2), HI 1 (0-6), p = 0.01]. A similar pattern was observed with the rCMPS-F. This resulted in more crossings of the analgesic intervention threshold in the HI group: U-B UNESP-psych (9 versus 1, p = 0.005) and rCMPS-F (23 versus 3, p < 0.0001). In contrast, U-B MCPS-painex scores did not differ between LO/HI groups: baseline (p > 0.99), 1 hour (p = 0.34), 2 hours (p > 0.99) and 4 hours (p = 0.31). LO cats ate sooner (61% versus 33% by 1 hour, p < 0.0001) despite similar times to sternal recumbency (p = 0.48). Demeanor affected pain assessment with U-B UNESP-psych and rCMPS-F scales, but not U-B UNESP-painex scale. Demeanor had a significant effect on postoperative feeding. These data highlight the potential for demeanor to confound pain assessment. Copyright © 2017 Association of Veterinary Anaesthetists and American College of Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effect of vitamin A supplementation on childhood morbidity and mortality.

PubMed

Chowdhury, S; Kumar, R; Ganguly, N K; Kumar, L; Walia, B N S

2002-06-01

In a double blind design, 1520 children aged < 10 years were individually randomised in vitamin A and placebo group in slums of Chandigarh. Children > 12, 6-12 and < 6 months of age received 200,000, 100,000, 500,000 I.U. of vitamin A respectively every 4 to 6 months during 15 months trial period. The prevalence of vitamin A deficiency was significantly reduced in vitamin A compared to placebo group during the follow-up period. In vitamin A group, incidence of diarrhoea and measles was significantly reduced but incidence of acute respiratory infections was not significantly different compared to control group. Risk of death was also significantly less in vitamin A group. Therefore, promotion of vitamin A rich diet or supplementation with synthetic vitamin A at 4-6 month interval should be a priority in populations where risk of vitamin A deficiency is high.

Faint dwarf galaxies in Hickson Compact Group 90*

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ordenes-Briceño, Yasna; Taylor, Matthew A.; Puzia, Thomas H.; Muñoz, Roberto P.; Eigenthaler, Paul; Georgiev, Iskren Y.; Goudfrooij, Paul; Hilker, Michael; Lançon, Ariane; Mamon, Gary; Mieske, Steffen; Miller, Bryan W.; Peng, Eric W.; Sánchez-Janssen, Rubén

2016-12-01

We report the discovery of a very diverse set of five low-surface brightness (LSB) dwarf galaxy candidates in Hickson Compact Group 90 (HCG 90) detected in deep U- and I-band images obtained with Very Large Telescope/Visible Multi-Object Spectrograph. These are the first LSB dwarf galaxy candidates found in a compact group of galaxies. We measure spheroid half-light radii in the range 0.7 ≲ reff/kpc ≲ 1.5 with luminosities of -11.65 ≲ MU ≲ -9.42 and -12.79 ≲ MI ≲ -10.58 mag, corresponding to a colour range of (U - I)0 ≃ 1.1-2.2 mag and surface brightness levels of μU ≃ 28.1 mag arcsec-2 and μI ≃ 27.4 mag arcsec-2. Their colours and luminosities are consistent with a diverse set of stellar population properties. Assuming solar and 0.02 Z⊙ metallicities we obtain stellar masses in the range M*|Z⊙ ≃ 105.7 - 6.3 M⊙ and M_{*}|_{0.02 Z_{⊙} ≃ 10^{6.3-8} M_{⊙}. Three dwarfs are older than 1 Gyr, while the other two significantly bluer dwarfs are younger than ˜2 Gyr at any mass/metallicity combination. Altogether, the new LSB dwarf galaxy candidates share properties with dwarf galaxies found throughout the Local Volume and in nearby galaxy clusters such as Fornax. We find a pair of candidates with ˜2 kpc projected separation, which may represent one of the closest dwarf galaxy pairs found. We also find a nucleated dwarf candidate, with a nucleus size of reff ≃ 46-63 pc and magnitude MU, 0 = -7.42 mag and (U - I)0 = 1.51 mag, which is consistent with a nuclear stellar disc with a stellar mass in the range 104.9 - 6.5 M⊙.

Effect of investment type and mold temperature on casting accuracy and titanium-ceramic bond.

PubMed

Leal, Mônica Barbosa; Pagnano, Valéria Oliveira; Bezzon, Osvaldo Luiz

2013-01-01

This study evaluated the casting accuracy of crown margins and metal-ceramic shear bond strength (SBS) of pure titanium injected into casting molds made using 2 investment types at 3 mold temperatures. Sixty crown (30-degree beveled finish line) and 60 cylinder (5mm diameter × 8mm high) patterns were divided into 6 groups (n=10), and cast using a phosphate-bonded investment (P) and a magnesium oxide-bonded investment (U), at 400°C (groups P400 and U400), 550°C (groups P550 and U550) and 700°C (groups P700 and U700) mold temperatures. Crown margins were recorded in impression material, the degree of marginal rounding was measured and margin length deficiencies (µm) were calculated. Titanium-ceramic specimens were prepared using Triceram ceramic (2mm high) and SBS was tested. Failure modes were assessed by optical microscopy. Data were subjected to two-way ANOVA and Tukey's HSD test (α=0.05). For casting accuracy, expressed by marginal deficiency (µm), investment U provided more accurate results (64 ± 11) than P (81 ± 23) (p<0.001). The increase in temperature resulted in different effects for the tested investments (p<0.001), as it provided better casting accuracy for U700 (55 ± 7) and worse for P700 (109 ± 18). Casting accuracy at 700°C (82 ± 31) was significantly different from 400°C (69 ± 9) and 550°C (68 ± 9) (p<0.05). For SBS, there was no significant differences among the groups for factors investment (p=0.062) and temperature (p=0.224), or for their interaction (p=0.149). Investment U provided better casting accuracy than investment P. The SBS was similar for all combinations of investments and temperatures.

Value of soluble CD30 in liver transplantation.

PubMed

Fábrega, E; Unzueta, M G; Cobo, M; Casafont, F; Amado, J A; Romero, F P

2007-09-01

CD30 is a membrane glycoprotein that belongs to the tumor necrosis factor superfamily. It is expressed on activated T cells. After activation of CD30(+) T cells, a soluble form of CD30 (sCD30) released into the bloodstream, can be measured in the serum. The aim of our study was to investigate the time course of serum levels of sCD30 during hepatic allograft rejection. Serum levels of sCD30 were determined in 30 healthy subjects and 50 hepatic transplant recipients. These patients were divided into two groups: group I, 35 patients without rejection; and group II, 15 patients with acute rejection. Samples were collected on day 1 and 7 after transplantation and on the day of liver biopsy. The concentrations of sCD30 were similar in the rejection (40.4 +/- 16.5 U/mL) and nonrejection groups (43.0 +/- 18.2 U/mL) on postoperative day 1. We observed a significant increase in sCD30 levels in the rejection group on postoperative day 7 (76.3 +/- 61.8 U/mL vs 46.8 +/- 20.5 U/mL; P = .01). The difference increased when a diagnosis of acute rejection had been established: namely 133.0 +/- 113.5 U/mL versus 40.1 +/- 22.0 U/mL; (P = .001). These levels were also significantly higher during the entire postoperative period in all the patients, with or without rejection, than those observed in healthy controls (26.6 +/- 5.3 U/mL; P = .005). The release of circulating sCD30 is a prominent feature coinciding with the first episode of hepatic allograft rejection. So, monitoring of sCD30 levels may be useful for the early diagnosis of an acute rejection episode.

[Efficacy of Botulinum-A toxin injection into bladder to treat neurogenic incontinence in patients with spinal cord injury: comparison of two doses].

PubMed

Fu, Guang; Wu, Juan; Cong, Huiling; Zha, Lihua; Li, Dong; Ju, Yanhe; Chen, Guoqing; Xiong, Zhongsheng; Liao, Limin

2015-12-19

To evaluate the efficacy of Botulinum-A toxin injection into bladder to treat neurogenic incontinence in patients with spinal cord injury and compare effectiveness of two different doses (200 U and 300 U). Between January 2009 and October 2014, A total of 60 adult patients with spinal cord injury above the sacral (mean age, 32 years; male 56, female 4) were selected in Beijing Bo'ai Hospital of China Rehabilitation Research Center. All the patients kept voiding diary and underwent urodynamic examination before operation. All the patients were allocated with a random number table into 200 U Botulinum-A toxin injection group or 300 U group (both n=30). In the 200 U group, 200 U of Botulinum-A toxin were dissolved in 10 ml of normal saline, which was injected into 20 different sites (0.5 ml for each site) of bladder wall, including 10 outside the bladder trigone and the remaining 10 inside trigone. In the 300 U group, 300 U of Botulinum-A toxin were dissolved in 15 ml of normal saline, which was injected into 30 different sites (0.5 ml for each site) in bladder outside of the bladder trigone using a flexible cystoscopic needle. The evaluation of the effects and follow-up included voiding diary, urodynamic testing and observation of adverse and toxic effects. At baseline, mean urinary incontinence frequencies were (15.2±3.2) episodes/day and (16.2±2.9) episodes/day in 200 U and 300 U group, which reduced to (2.9±1.2) episodes/day and (2.5±1.4) episodes/day, respectively in week 4 (P<0.05). However, continence rate was not significantly different between the two dose groups [63% (19/30) vs 70% (21/30), P>0.05]. The effect of botulinum-A toxin started to be observed from the 1(st) posttreatment week on average. Obvious improvements in maximum cystometric capacity, end-filling maximum detrusor pressure, and bladder compliance were observed at week 4 as shown by urodynamics (all P<0.05), but with no significant difference between the 200 U and 300 U groups. In the follow-up period of (6.3±1.2) months, no toxic or adverse effects were observed after injection in the two groups. The regimen of Botulinum-A toxin 200 U injection involving trigone of the bladder can achieve a short-term effect comparable with that of the standard 300 U injection excluding trigone. It may be an effective and safe treatment for neurogenic incontinence in spinal cord injury patients.

Optimization of small long-life PWR based on thorium fuel

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

Subkhi, Moh Nurul, E-mail: nsubkhi@students.itb.ac.id; Physics Dept., Faculty of Science and Technology, State Islamic University of Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung Jalan A.H Nasution 105 Bandung; Suud, Zaki, E-mail: szaki@fi.itb.ac.id

2015-09-30

A conceptual design of small long-life Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) using thorium fuel has been investigated in neutronic aspect. The cell-burn up calculations were performed by PIJ SRAC code using nuclear data library based on JENDL 3.2, while the multi-energy-group diffusion calculations were optimized in three-dimension X-Y-Z geometry of core by COREBN. The excess reactivity of thorium nitride with ZIRLO cladding is considered during 5 years of burnup without refueling. Optimization of 350 MWe long life PWR based on 5% {sup 233}U & 2.8% {sup 231}Pa, 6% {sup 233}U & 2.8% {sup 231}Pa and 7% {sup 233}U & 6% {supmore » 231}Pa give low excess reactivity.« less

Urinary NGAL, KIM-1 and L-FABP concentrations in antenatal hydronephrosis.

PubMed

Noyan, Aytul; Parmaksiz, Gonul; Dursun, Hasan; Ezer, Semire Serin; Anarat, Ruksan; Cengiz, Nurcan

2015-10-01

The clinical tests currently in use for obstructive nephropathy (such as renal ultrasonography, differential radionuclide renal scans and urinary creatinine concentration data) are not efficient predictors of the subsequent clinical course. Novel and simple biomarkers are required which, if proven, could be clinically beneficial in determining if a patient is eligible for surgery or reno-protective therapy. More recently, the interest of clinicians has focused on the potential of urinary neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (uNGAL), urinary kidney injury molecule-1 (uKIM-1) and urinary liver-type fatty acid-binding proteins (uL-FABP) as biomarkers for renal function in children with hydronephrosis (HN). The purpose of this study was to investigate possible clinical applications of uNGAL, uKIM-1 and uL-FABP as beneficial non-invasive biomarkers to determine whether or not surgical intervention is required in children with HN. Renal ultrasonography and radionuclide renal scans were used as diagnostic tools to detect HN. Patients were divided into two groups based on the antero-posterior diameter of their renal pelvis and the presence of dysfunction. Group 1 included 26 children with severe HN (with dysfunction), and group 2 consisted of 36 children with mild HN (without dysfunction). Urine samples were collected from 62 children with HN and 20 healthy children. Hydronephrosis was more common in males than in females, with a male to female ratio of 9:1 in the study sample. The incidence of left kidney involvement (32 patients) was slightly higher than right kidney involvement (28 patients). Compared with controls and group 2, the ratio of uNGAL to creatinine was significantly higher in group 1 (p < 0.05). The biomarker uNGAL/Cr exhibited fairly good diagnostic accuracy, with an area under the curve of 0.68 [95% confidence interval 0.6-0.7] and an optimal cut-off value of 0.16 ng/mg Cr (sensitivity 58%, specificity 75%) (p < 0.05). There was a positive correlation between the uNGAL/Cr ratio and the uKIM-1/Cr ratio (r = 0.582, p < 0.05) and uL-FABP/Cr ratio (r = 0675, p < 0.05) in group 1. The results clearly demonstrated that children with hydronephrosis and dysfunction had significantly increased uNGAL, and uNGAL/Cr concentrations. However, uKIM-1, uKIM-1/Cr, uL-FABP and uL-FABP/Cr concentrations were not significantly different when compared with controls. These results support the use of uNGAL concentrations as an early marker for renal dysfunction in HN. The study clearly demonstrated that pediatric patients with hydronephrosis and dysfunction had significantly higher uNGAL to creatinine concentrations as compared with controls. Copyright © 2015 Journal of Pediatric Urology Company. All rights reserved.

15 CFR 744.6 - Restrictions on certain activities of U.S. persons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

.... 1 to part 740 of the EAR). (B) Will be used in the design, development, production, or use of missiles in or by a country listed in Country Group D:4 (see supplement no. 1 to part 740 of the EAR); or... 740 of the EAR); or (ii) Perform any contract, service, or employment that the U.S. person knows will...

A preliminary trial of the effect of recombinant human growth hormone on short-term linear growth and glucose homeostasis in children with Crohn's disease.

PubMed

Wong, S C; Kumar, P; Galloway, P J; Blair, J C; Didi, M; Dalzell, A M; Hassan, K; McGrogan, P; Ahmed, S Faisal

2011-05-01

It is unclear whether recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) improves linear growth in children with Crohn's disease (CD). To investigate the effects of rhGH on height velocity (HV) and glucose homeostasis over a 6-month period. Randomized controlled trial in two tertiary children's hospitals in 22 children with inflammatory bowel disease amongst whom 21 had CD. Duration of disease from diagnosis and number of acute relapses requiring either exclusive enteral nutrition or therapeutic dose of oral prednisolone were similar in the treatment and control groups. Either rhGH (0·067 mg/kg per day) as daily subcutaneous injections (rhGH group; n, 11) or no rhGH, (Ctrl; n, 11) for 6 months. Percentage change in HV after 6 months in the two groups. Auxology, puberty, skeletal age, disease factors, treatment and glucose homeostasis were also assessed. Median HV increased from 4·5 (range, 0·6, 8·9) at baseline to 10·8 (6·1, 15·0) cm/year at 6 month (P = 0·003) in the rhGH group, whereas in the Ctrl group, it was 3·8 (1·4, 6·7) and 3·5 cm/year (2·0, 9·6), respectively (P = 0·58). Median percentage increase in HV after 6 months in the rhGH group was 140% (16·7, 916·7) compared with 17·4% (-42·1%, 97·7%) in the Ctrl group (P < 0·001). There were no significant differences in disease activity and proinflammatory cytokines at baseline and 6 months in both groups and change in bone age for chronological age was also similar in the two groups. In the rhGH group, fasting insulin increased from 4·0 (2·0, 11·0) to 7·0 mU/l (2·0, 16·0) (P = 0·02), whereas in the Ctrl group, it was 3·0 (1·2, 12·7) and 3·8 mU/l (2·1, 7·0) (P = 0·72), respectively. Although this pilot trial shows that rhGH can improve short-term linear growth in children with CD, the clinical efficacy of this therapy needs to be further studied in longer-term studies of growth, glucose homeostasis and disease status. © 2011 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Evaluation of annual committed effective doses to members of the public in Morocco due to 238U and 232Th in various food materials.

PubMed

Misdaq, M A; Bourzik, W

2004-12-01

Uranium (238U) and thorium (232Th) concentrations were measured in different foods widely consumed in Morocco by using CR-39 and LR-115 type II solid state nuclear track detectors (SSNTDs). Annual committed effective doses due to 238U and 232Th intakes from the ingestion of the studied food materials were evaluated for different age groups of individuals, using the ICRP ingestion dose coefficients. The influence of the 238U and 232Th intakes and ages of individuals on the committed effective dose was investigated. Total annual intakes of 238U and 232Th for a typical food basket for adult members of the Moroccan population were estimated to be 451 +/- 27 Bq y(-1) and 359 +/- 20 Bq y(-1), corresponding to committed effective doses of (20 +/- 1) x 10(-6) Sv y(-1) and (83 +/- 5) x 10(-6) Sv y(-1), respectively.

Clinical usefulness of ursodeoxycholic acid for Japanese patients with autoimmune hepatitis

PubMed Central

Torisu, Yuichi; Nakano, Masanori; Takano, Keiko; Nakagawa, Ryo; Saeki, Chisato; Hokari, Atsushi; Ishikawa, Tomohisa; Saruta, Masayuki; Zeniya, Mikio

2017-01-01

AIM To evaluate the therapeutic effects of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) on autoimmune hepatitis (AIH). METHODS A total 136 patients who were diagnosed with AIH were included in our study. All of the patients underwent a liver biopsy, and had at least a probable diagnosis on the basis of either the revised scoring system or the simplified scores. Initial treatment included UDCA monotherapy (Group U, n = 48) and prednisolone (PSL) monotherapy (Group P, n = 88). Group U was further classified into two subgroups according to the effect of UDCA: Patients who had achieved remission induction with UDCA monotherapy and showed no sign of relapse (Subgroup U1, n = 34) and patients who additionally received PSL during follow-up (Subgroup U2, n = 14). We compared the clinical and histological findings between each groups, and investigated factors contributing to the response to UDCA monotherapy. RESULTS In Group U, 34 patients (71%) achieved and maintained remission over 49 (range: 8-90) mo (Subgroup U1) and 14 patients (29%) additionally received PSL (Subgroup U2) during follow-up. Two patients in Subgroup U2 achieved remission induction once but additionally required PSL administration because of relapse (15 and 35 mo after the start of treatment). The remaining 12 patients in Subgroup U2 failed to achieve remission induction during follow-up, and PSL was added during 7 (range: 2-18) mo. Compared with Subgroup U2, Subgroup U1 had significantly lower alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels at onset (124 IU/L vs 262 IU/L, P = 0.023) and a significantly higher proportion of patients with mild inflammation (A1) on histological examination (70.6% vs 35.7%, P = 0.025). When multivariate analysis was performed to identify factors contributing to the response to UDCA monotherapy, only a serum ALT level of 200 IU/L or lower was found to be associated with a significant difference (P = 0.013). CONCLUSION To prevent adverse events related to corticosteroids, UDCA monotherapy for AIH needs to be considered in patients with a serum ALT level of 200 IU/L or lower. PMID:28105259

Automated Performance Monitoring and Assessment for DCS Digital Systems.

DTIC Science & Technology

1977-10-01

5.2 Analog Radio Systems 439 A.6 Group Data Modem (AN/USC-26) 453 A.6.1 Data Rates 453 vii ^II^^^IH^^^H^^^ HH ^ HH ^MflH^MBHBIEiiH^B^B&99S&_ 7...in U. 03 ÜJ 03 1 is «r V X V 1 ts ro O O M O 1 rs CM ^r 1- 1 rs TI o _i ! is o *•* OI- hh -Hhh- «c o> s Ci ÜJ li’ UJ UJ ÜJ u i •o o IS H d Ci Ci...j 0) tOOOOQiklkHH 03 03 UI0)BfiSSAAHI> HH ttaaAuuuuoocccs s E z xi 03 o^i a a i- 2: x x x x cß<:ffi<:ä<i:ä<:a«iB<c« s- 1- > r> z r: z z u u M M x

Light-curing reinforcement for denture base resin using a glass fiber cloth pre-impregnated with various urethane oligomers.

PubMed

Kanie, Takahito; Arikawa, Hiroyuki; Fujii, Koichi; Ban, Seiji

2004-09-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the flexural properties of denture base resin reinforced using glass fiber cloth and a urethane oligomer. The five types of oligomer used in this study were S5, S9, S3, U4, and U6, which have varying functional groups and viscosities. The flexural properties of S9 with glass fiber cloth could not be measured because S9 is elastic. In the heat-cured resin reinforced with S9, the reinforcement peeled away from the resin. In the self- and light-cured resins reinforced with S9, the flexural properties increased significantly. When reinforced with the other four oligomers (S5, S3, U4, and U6), the flexural strength and flexural modulus of the self-, heat-, and light-cured resins increased significantly (p<0.01).

[Comparison of short term results of TVT-O and TVT-S in the surgical treatment of stress urinary incontinence].

PubMed

Mašata, J; Svabík, K; Zvára, K; Drahodrádová, P; Hubka, P; Elhaddad, R; Martan, A

2012-08-01

To compare short term results of tension free vaginal tape - obturator (TVT-O) and the tension free vaginal tape Seccure in the treatment of urodynamic stress urinary incontinence (USI). Randomize trial. Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, First Medical Faculty, Charles University; General Teaching Hospital, Prague. This single-centre randomized three-arm trial compared the objective and subjective efficacy and early failure rate of the TVT-O and TVT-S H and U approach by objective criteria (cough test) and subjective criteria using the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short form (ICIQ-UI SF). The objective efficacy rate was defined as the number of patients with a negative cough stress test. Subjective cure was defined by no stress leakage of urine after surgery based on evaluation of ICIQ - UI SH (when patients ticked "Never" / "Urine does not leak" in answer to Question 6: When does urine leak?). 197 women with proved SUI were randomized into three groups - TVT-O (68), TVT-S H (64) and TVT-S U (65). Each patient allocated to a treatment group received the planned surgery. There were no differences in each group in pre-operative characteristics. Three months after surgery were analyzed 65 women in TVT-O group, 61 in TVT-S H and 60 in TVT-S U. 95.4% subjects in the TVT-O group, 82% in the TVT-S H group and 76.7% in the TVT-S U group had stress test negative (p=0.006). 90.8% subjects in the TVT-O group, 82% in the TVT-S H group and 78.3% in the TVT-S U group were subjectively continent (NS). Our study demonstrated a significantly lower objective cure rate in the single incision TVT S group compared to the TVT-O group three months after surgery.

ABJ theory in the higher spin limit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hirano, Shinji; Honda, Masazumi; Okuyama, Kazumi; Shigemori, Masaki

2016-08-01

We study the conjecture made by Chang, Minwalla, Sharma, and Yin on the duality between the {N}=6 Vasiliev higher spin theory on AdS4 and the {N}=6 Chern-Simons-matter theory, so-called ABJ theory, with gauge group U( N) × U( N + M). Building on our earlier results on the ABJ partition function, we develop the systematic 1 /M expansion, corresponding to the weak coupling expansion in the higher spin theory, and compare the leading 1 /M correction, with our proposed prescription, to the one-loop free energy of the {N}=6 Vasiliev theory. We find an agreement between the two sides up to an ambiguity that appears in the bulk one-loop calculation.

Fresh frozen plasma resuscitation attenuates platelet dysfunction compared with normal saline in a large animal model of multisystem trauma.

PubMed

Sillesen, Martin; Johansson, Pär I; Rasmussen, Lars S; Jin, Guang; Jepsen, Cecilie H; Imam, Ayesha; Hwabejire, John O; Deperalta, Danielle; Duggan, Michael; DeMoya, Marc; Velmahos, George C; Alam, Hasan B

2014-04-01

Platelet dysfunction following trauma has been identified as an independent predictor of mortality. We hypothesized that fresh frozen plasma (FFP) resuscitation would attenuate platelet dysfunction compared with 0.9% normal saline (NS). Twelve swine were subjected to multisystem trauma (traumatic brain injury, liver injury, rib fracture, and soft tissue injury) with hemorrhagic shock (40% of estimated blood volume). Animals were left in shock (mean arterial pressure, 30-35 mm Hg) for 2 hours followed by resuscitation with three times shed volume NS (n = 6) or one times volume FFP (n = 6) and monitored for 6 hours. Platelet function was assessed by adenosine diphosphate (ADP)-induced platelet aggregation at baseline, after 2 hours of shock following resuscitation, and 6 hours after resuscitation. Fibrinogen levels and markers of platelet activation (transforming growth factor β [TGF-β], sP-Selectin, and CD40L) as well as endothelial injury (intercellular adhesion molecule 1 [ICAM-1], vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 [VCAM-1]) were also assayed. Thromboelastography was used to measure clotting activity. ADP-induced platelet aggregation was significantly higher in the FFP group (46.3 U vs. 25.5 U, p < 0.01) following resuscitation. This was associated with higher fibrinogen levels (202 mg/dL vs. 80 mg/dL, p < 0.01) but lower endothelial activation (VCAM-1, 1.25 ng/mL vs. 3.87 ng/mL, p = 0.05). Other markers did not differ.After 6 hours of observation, ADP-induced platelet aggregation remained higher in the FFP group (53.8 U vs. 37.0 U, p = 0.03) as was fibrinogen levels (229 mg/dL vs. 153 mg/dL, p < 0.01). Endothelial activation was lower (ICAM-1, 21.0 ng/mL vs. 24.4 ng/mL, p = 0.05), whereas TGF-β levels were higher (2,138 pg/mL vs. 1,802 pg/mL, p = 0.03) in the FFP group. Other markers did not differ. Thromboelastography revealed increased clot strength in the FFP group at both postresuscitation time points. Resuscitation with FFP resulted in an immediate and sustained improvement in platelet function and clot strength compared with high-volume NS resuscitation. This was associated with an increase in fibrinogen levels and an attenuation of endothelial activation.

Ovarian function after uterine artery embolization and hysterectomy.

PubMed

Healey, Sarah; Buzaglo, Karen; Seti, Laurent; Valenti, David; Tulandi, Togas

2004-08-01

To evaluate the effect of uterine artery embolization (UAE) and hysterectomy on ovarian function. Prospective case control study (Canadian Task Force classification II-2). University teaching hospital. Eighty-four healthy premenopausal women with symptomatic uterine myoma(s) undergoing UAE or hysterectomy. Patients had blood drawn to measure follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and estradiol (E2) levels and underwent transvaginal ultrasound to measure volume of the myoma(s) and uterus on cycle day 3 before the procedures. These measurements were repeated 3 and 6 months after treatment. The main outcome was the differences in serum FSH, LH, E2, and ultrasound findings before and after UAE or hysterectomy. Of the 68 patients who underwent UAE and 16 who underwent hysterectomy, 48 and 13 respectively, completed 6-month follow-up. The mean age of the patients in the UAE group was 44.9 +/- 3.8 years and 43.7 +/- 5.6 years in the hysterectomy group. There was no significant difference in serum FSH before (8.9 +/- 0.7 IU/L) and 6 months after UAE (9.9 +/- 1.0 lU/L), and between the baseline (10.4 +/- 1.8 lU/L) and 6 months posthysterectomy (7.8 +/- 1.8 lU/L). The uterine volume 6 months after UAE (361 +/- 50 mL) was significantly smaller than before UAE(538 +/- 38mL; p =.005, 95% CI 44-241). Compared with baseline (154 +/- 20 mL), the dominant myoma volume was smaller at 6 months after UAE (97 +/- 16 mL; p <.05, 95% CI 1.57-62). Uterine artery embolization is associated with a significant reduction in myoma and uterine volume. Ovarian function at 6 months, as indicated by day 3 FSH levels, is not affected by UAE or hysterectomy.

Evaluation of a Smoking Cessation Program in the U.S. Navy: Implications for Long Term Success and Failure

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-05-03

attempted. In addition, the program participants indicated the brand of cigarette smoked and whether the brand was light or regular, menthol or...light cigarettes than any other group. Preference for non- menthol (versus menthol ) cigarettes was clear for all the groups and most pronounced for Navy...Regular 1220 73.8 30 55.6 I 78 78.8 69 61.6 1298 75.1 99 59.6I II Menthol I 48 16.2 26 25.7 I 26 25.7 31 27.9 74 18.6 57 26.9.I I °I Non- Menthol 1248

Comparison of base composition analysis and Sanger sequencing of mitochondrial DNA for four U.S. population groups.

PubMed

Kiesler, Kevin M; Coble, Michael D; Hall, Thomas A; Vallone, Peter M

2014-01-01

A set of 711 samples from four U.S. population groups was analyzed using a novel mass spectrometry based method for mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) base composition profiling. Comparison of the mass spectrometry results with Sanger sequencing derived data yielded a concordance rate of 99.97%. Length heteroplasmy was identified in 46% of samples and point heteroplasmy was observed in 6.6% of samples in the combined mass spectral and Sanger data set. Using discrimination capacity as a metric, Sanger sequencing of the full control region had the highest discriminatory power, followed by the mass spectrometry base composition method, which was more discriminating than Sanger sequencing of just the hypervariable regions. This trend is in agreement with the number of nucleotides covered by each of the three assays. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.

The Younger Age Limit of Metasedimentary Protolith Formation of the Lower Part of the Udokan Group Rocks (Aldan Shield)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kotov, A. B.; Salnikova, E. B.; Kovach, V. P.; Velikoslavinskii, S. D.; Sklyarov, E. V.; Gladkochub, D. P.; Larin, A. M.; Tolmacheva, E. V.; Fedoseenko, A. M.; Plotkina, Yu. V.

2018-04-01

Biotite plagiogranite intruding sediments of the Kodar Sub-Group of the Udokan Group that have both undergone amphibolite grade alterations has been dated by the U-Pb ID TIMS technique using zircon to 2105 ± 6 Ma. This age estimate to a first approximation corresponds to the younger age limit of deposition of the siliciclastics in the lower section of the Udokan Group.

Flow sorting of C-genome chromosomes from wild relatives of wheat Aegilops markgrafii, Ae. triuncialis and Ae. cylindrica, and their molecular organization.

PubMed

Molnár, István; Vrána, Jan; Farkas, András; Kubaláková, Marie; Cseh, András; Molnár-Láng, Márta; Doležel, Jaroslav

2015-08-01

Aegilops markgrafii (CC) and its natural hybrids Ae. triuncialis (U(t)U(t)C(t)C(t)) and Ae. cylindrica (D(c)D(c)C(c)C(c)) represent a rich reservoir of useful genes for improvement of bread wheat (Triticum aestivum), but the limited information available on their genome structure and the shortage of molecular (cyto-) genetic tools hamper the utilization of the extant genetic diversity. This study provides the complete karyotypes in the three species obtained after fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) with repetitive DNA probes, and evaluates the potential of flow cytometric chromosome sorting. The flow karyotypes obtained after the analysis of 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI)-stained chromosomes were characterized and the chromosome content of the peaks on the flow karyotypes was determined by FISH. Twenty-nine conserved orthologous set (COS) markers covering all seven wheat homoeologous chromosome groups were used for PCR with DNA amplified from flow-sorted chromosomes and genomic DNA. FISH with repetitive DNA probes revealed that chromosomes 4C, 5C, 7C(t), T6U(t)S.6U(t)L-5C(t)L, 1C(c) and 5D(c) could be sorted with purities ranging from 66 to 91 %, while the remaining chromosomes could be sorted in groups of 2-5. This identified a partial wheat-C-genome homology for group 4 and 5 chromosomes. In addition, 1C chromosomes were homologous with group 1 of wheat; a small segment from group 2 indicated 1C-2C rearrangement. An extensively rearranged structure of chromosome 7C relative to wheat was also detected. The possibility of purifying Aegilops chromosomes provides an attractive opportunity to investigate the structure and evolution of the Aegilops C genome and to develop molecular tools to facilitate the identification of alien chromatin and support alien introgression breeding in bread wheat. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Annals of Botany Company. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

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

Gendron, Frederic; Fleischauer, Valerie R.; Duignan, Thomas J.

Here, we present a combined ab initio theoretical and experimental study of the magnetic circular dichroism (MCD) spectrum of the octahedral UCl 6- complex ion in the UV-Vis spectral region. The ground state is an orbitally non-degenerate doublet E 5/2u and the MCD is a $C$-term spectrum caused by spin–orbit coupling. Calculations of the electronic spectrum at various levels of theory indicate that differential dynamic electron correlation has a strong influence on the energies of the dipole-allowed transitions and the envelope of the MCD spectrum. The experimentally observed bands are assigned to dipole-allowed ligand-to-metal charge transfer into the 5f shell,more » and 5f to 6d transitions. Charge transfer excitations into the U 6d shell appear at much higher energies. The MCD-allowed transitions can be assigned via their signs of the $C$-terms: Under O h double group symmetry, E 5/2u → E 5/2g transitions have negative $C$-terms whereas E 5/2u → F 3/2g transitions have positive $C$-terms if the ground state g-factor is negative, as it is the case for UCl 6-.« less

Tertiary oil discoveries whet explorer interest off Tunisia

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

Long, M.

Prospects for increased Tertiary oil production in the S. Mediterranean have brightened with discoveries off Tunisia, but more evaluation is needed before commercial potential is known. Several groups of U.S. and European companies have tested oil in the relatively unexplored Miocene in the Gulf of Hannamet. These include groups operated by Buttes Resources Tunisia, Elf-Aquitaine Tunisia, and Shell Tunirex. Oil test rates of 1,790 to 1,800 bpd have been reported by the Buttes group in 2 Gulf of Hammamet wells. The initial discovery probably was the first Tertiary oil ever tested in that part of the Mediterranean. The discoveries havemore » helped boost exploratory interest in the northern waters of Tunisia and northeast toward Sicily. There are reports more U.S. and European companies are requesting exploration permits from the government of Tunisia. Companies with permits are planning new exploration for 1978. Probably the most significant discovery to date has been the Buttes group's 1 Jasmine (2 BGH). The group tested high-quality 39.5'-gravity oil at a rate of 1,790 bpd. Test flow was from the Sabri Sand at 6,490 to 6,590 ft. The well was drilled in 458 ft of water.« less

Impact of combined C1 esterase inhibitor/coagulation factor XIII or N-acetylcysteine/tirilazad mesylate administration on leucocyte adherence and cytokine release in experimental endotoxaemia.

PubMed

Birnbaum, J; Klotz, E; Spies, C D; Mueller, J; Vargas Hein, O; Feller, J; Lehmann, C

2008-01-01

We determined the effects of combinations of C1 esterase inhibitor (C1-INH) with factor XIII and of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) with tirilazad mesylate (TM) during lipo-polysaccharide (LPS)-induced endotoxaemia in rats. Forty Wistar rats were divided into four groups: the control (CON) group received no LPS; the LPS, C1-INH + factor XIII and NAC + TM groups received endotoxin infusions (5 mg/kg per h). After 30 min of endotoxaemia, 100 U/kg C1-INH + 50 U/kg factor XIII was administered to the C1-INH + factor XIII group, and 150 mg/kg NAC + 10 mg/kg TM was administered in the NAC + TM group. Administration of C1-INH + factor XIII and NAC + TM both resulted in reduced leucocyte adherence and reduced levels of interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta). The LPS-induced increase in IL-6 levels was amplified by both drug combinations. There was no significant effect on mesenteric plasma extravasation. In conclusion, the administration of C1-INH + factor XIII and NAC + TM reduced endothelial leucocyte adherence and IL-1beta plasma levels, but increased IL-6 levels.

A Study to Determine the Best Model and the Optimal Feasible Method for Reducing No-Show Behavior at a Military Social Work Clinic.

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-05-01

AVAILABILITY OF REPORT Approved for public release; 2b. DECLASSIFICATION I DOWNGRADING SCHEDULE Distribution Unlimited 4. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION REPORT NUMBER(S...S. MONITORING ORGANIZATION REPORT NUMBER(S) 1-88 6a. NAME OF PERFORMING ORGANIZATION 6b. OFFICE SYMBOL 7a. NAME OF MONITORING ORGANIZATION U.S. Army...identify by block number) FIELD GROUP SUB-GROUP Health Care; Appointment Absenteeism - ... 19, ABSTRACT (Continue on reverse if necessary and identify

Studies of Membrane Associated Energy Transduction Mechanisms in Pathological States: Chemical and Biochemical Studies of PGB sub x.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-08-30

count and aastric acid secretion are evaluated. As shown in Table I the bleedinq score in the groups given P(M in doses of 1 to 5 mxAg were...gastric acid output of the 1 mg/g PGBx group was -21 - -= :’r 0.236 + 0.173 meq/three hours and the control group was 0.189 + 0.139 per three hours. The t...AD-AlSO 289 HMNNEMANN MEDICAL COLL AND HOSPITAL PHILADELPHIA PA -ETC F/6 6/ 1 STUDIES OF MERANE ASSOCIATED ENERGY TRANSDUCTION MECHANISMS I-ETCfU) AUG

A taxonomic revision of the Cymindis (Pinacodera) limbata species group (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Lebiini), including description of a new species from Florida, U.S.A.

PubMed Central

Hunting, Wesley M.

2013-01-01

Abstract The Cymindis (Pinacodera) limbata species group (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Lebiini) is a precinctive New World taxon with ranges extended from portions of temperate southeastern Canada and the U.S.A. through the montane regions of Mexico, south to the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. The group is distinguishable from all other members of the subgenus Pinacodera by males possessing a distinctive sclerite (endophallic plate) at the apex of the endophallus. In the past, a lack of material and misunderstandings of range of variation within species have contributed to confusion about how many species there really are. This revision of the limbata species group includes a classification, a key to groups within the subgenus Pinacodera and species within the limbata group, descriptions of species, re-rankings and new synonymies. In total 10 taxa are treated, with 6 new synonyms proposed, 1 new combination introduced and 1 new species described: Cymindis (Pinacodera) rufostigma (type locality: Archbold Biological Station, Highlands County, Florida, U.S.A.). Each taxon is characterized in terms of structural features of adults, habitat, geographical distribution, and chorological affinities. Available ecological information and treatments of variation are included. PMID:23653501

Transmission of Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus 1 to and from vaccinated pigs in a one-to-one model.

PubMed

Pileri, E; Gibert, E; Martín-Valls, G E; Nofrarias, M; López-Soria, S; Martín, M; Díaz, I; Darwich, L; Mateu, E

2017-03-01

The present study examined transmission by contact of Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) 1 in a one-to-one model to vaccinated and unvaccinated pigs and from vaccinated infected pigs to other vaccinated pigs. The experiment started by randomly assigning weaned pigs to groups V (n=24) and U (n=26). V pigs were vaccinated with a commercial live attenuated PRRSV vaccine and the U animals were kept as unvaccinated controls. Twenty-eight days later, 6U pigs were separated and allocated in individual boxes. The remaining 20U pigs were intranasally inoculated with PRRSV isolate 3267 (from now on designated as seeder (S) pigs) and 48h later were distributed in boxes where they were commingled with either V or U pigs in 1:1 groups (first contact phase), resulting in 6S:U and 14S:V pairs. As soon as a V pig was detected to be viremic because of contact with a S, the infected V (from now on designated as V inf ) was transferred (<24h after detection) to a new pen where it was comingled with a new V pig (designated as V 2 ) in a second contact phase. For the first contact phase, pigs were maintained 21days at maximum and for the second contact phase the maximum exposure period was 14days. Two V pigs tested positive for the vaccine virus (>99.5% similarity) when they were relocated with the corresponding V 2 pigs and they were removed; thus, only 12V inf were finally considered. All V pigs (12/12) exposed to S animals became infected although the first detection of viremia occurred at 13.6±3.6days, one week later than in U (p<0.05). Also, duration of viremia was shorter for V inf compared to U, (5.5±4.3days versus 12.5±2.7days). The V inf group showed remarkable individual variability: eight animals had a viremic period of 5 or less days (3.0±1.4) while the remaining four had a longer viremic period of more than one week (10.8±2.9). This situation was not observed in U. In the second contact phase, transmission from V inf to V 2 pigs occurred in 7/8 cases (87.5%). The mean duration of viremia for V 2 was 4.8±3.4 and two different patterns were again observed: two animals had viremias of 9-10days and the rest averaged 3.0±1.4days (range: 2-5days). Vaccinated groups V inf and V 2 had a significantly lower PRRSV shedding in oral fluids for at least the first 9days after the onset of the viremia compared to U, and shedding for V2 was even significantly lower (p<0.05) than shedding for V inf . Our experimental design reproduced the worst-case scenario for evaluating the effect of vaccination and, under such conditions; it was still efficacious in slowering PRRSV transmission and decreasing the global viral load and particularly oral shedding. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Tetra- and hexavalent uranium forms bidentate-mononuclear complexes with particulate organic matter in a naturally uranium-enriched peatland

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

Mikutta, Christian; Langner, Peggy; Bargar, John R.

Peatlands frequently serve as efficient biogeochemical traps for U. Mechanisms of U immobilization in these organic matter-dominated environments may encompass the precipitation of U-bearing mineral(oid)s and the complexation of U by a vast range of (in)organic surfaces. The objective of this work was to investigate the spatial distribution and molecular binding mechanisms of U in soils of an alpine minerotrophic peatland (pH 4.7–6.6, E h = –127 to 463 mV) using microfocused X-ray fluorescence spectrometry and bulk and microfocused U L 3-edge X-ray absorption spectroscopy. The soils contained 2.3–47.4 wt % organic C, 4.1–58.6 g/kg Fe, and up to 335 mg/kg geogenic U. Uranium was found to be heterogeneously distributed at the micrometer scale and enriched as both U(IV) and U(VI) on fibrous and woody plant debris (48 ± 10% U(IV),more » $$\\bar{x}$$ ± σ, n = 22). Bulk U X-ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) spectroscopy revealed that in all samples U(IV) comprised 35–68% of total U ($$\\bar{x}$$ = 50%, n = 15). Shell-fit analyses of bulk U L 3-edge extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) spectra showed that U was coordinated to 1.3 ± 0.2 C atoms at a distance of 2.91 ± 0.01 Å ($$\\bar{x}$$ ± σ), which implies the formation of bidentate-mononuclear U(IV/VI) complexes with carboxyl groups. We neither found evidence for U shells at ~3.9 Å, indicative of mineral-associated U or multinuclear U(IV) species, nor for a substantial P/Fe coordination of U. As a result, our data indicates that U(IV/VI) complexation by natural organic matter prevents the precipitation of U minerals as well as U complexation by Fe/Mn phases at our field site, and suggests that organically complexed U(IV) is formed via reduction of organic matter-bound U(VI).« less

Tetra- and hexavalent uranium forms bidentate-mononuclear complexes with particulate organic matter in a naturally uranium-enriched peatland

DOE PAGES

Mikutta, Christian; Langner, Peggy; Bargar, John R.; ...

2016-09-16

Peatlands frequently serve as efficient biogeochemical traps for U. Mechanisms of U immobilization in these organic matter-dominated environments may encompass the precipitation of U-bearing mineral(oid)s and the complexation of U by a vast range of (in)organic surfaces. The objective of this work was to investigate the spatial distribution and molecular binding mechanisms of U in soils of an alpine minerotrophic peatland (pH 4.7–6.6, E h = –127 to 463 mV) using microfocused X-ray fluorescence spectrometry and bulk and microfocused U L 3-edge X-ray absorption spectroscopy. The soils contained 2.3–47.4 wt % organic C, 4.1–58.6 g/kg Fe, and up to 335 mg/kg geogenic U. Uranium was found to be heterogeneously distributed at the micrometer scale and enriched as both U(IV) and U(VI) on fibrous and woody plant debris (48 ± 10% U(IV),more » $$\\bar{x}$$ ± σ, n = 22). Bulk U X-ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) spectroscopy revealed that in all samples U(IV) comprised 35–68% of total U ($$\\bar{x}$$ = 50%, n = 15). Shell-fit analyses of bulk U L 3-edge extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) spectra showed that U was coordinated to 1.3 ± 0.2 C atoms at a distance of 2.91 ± 0.01 Å ($$\\bar{x}$$ ± σ), which implies the formation of bidentate-mononuclear U(IV/VI) complexes with carboxyl groups. We neither found evidence for U shells at ~3.9 Å, indicative of mineral-associated U or multinuclear U(IV) species, nor for a substantial P/Fe coordination of U. As a result, our data indicates that U(IV/VI) complexation by natural organic matter prevents the precipitation of U minerals as well as U complexation by Fe/Mn phases at our field site, and suggests that organically complexed U(IV) is formed via reduction of organic matter-bound U(VI).« less

Magnetic circular dichroism of UCl 6– in the ligand-to-metal charge-transfer spectral region

DOE PAGES

Gendron, Frederic; Fleischauer, Valerie R.; Duignan, Thomas J.; ...

2017-06-23

Here, we present a combined ab initio theoretical and experimental study of the magnetic circular dichroism (MCD) spectrum of the octahedral UCl 6- complex ion in the UV-Vis spectral region. The ground state is an orbitally non-degenerate doublet E 5/2u and the MCD is a $C$-term spectrum caused by spin–orbit coupling. Calculations of the electronic spectrum at various levels of theory indicate that differential dynamic electron correlation has a strong influence on the energies of the dipole-allowed transitions and the envelope of the MCD spectrum. The experimentally observed bands are assigned to dipole-allowed ligand-to-metal charge transfer into the 5f shell,more » and 5f to 6d transitions. Charge transfer excitations into the U 6d shell appear at much higher energies. The MCD-allowed transitions can be assigned via their signs of the $C$-terms: Under O h double group symmetry, E 5/2u → E 5/2g transitions have negative $C$-terms whereas E 5/2u → F 3/2g transitions have positive $C$-terms if the ground state g-factor is negative, as it is the case for UCl 6-.« less

[Influence of macrophages on the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor mRNA, homeobox B2 mRNA, and integrin alpha nu beta3 in vascular endothelial strain].

PubMed

Liu, Liang; Liu, Chang; Zhang, Xiao-qi; Ming, Jia; Liu, Xu-sheng; Xu, Hui; Cheng, Tian-min

2005-06-01

To investigate the influence of macrophages on the expression of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor (KDR) mRNA, homeobox B2 (HOXB2) mRNA, and integrin alpha nu beta3 in vitro in vascular endothelial strain. Human umbilical vein cells (ECV304) were cultured in vitro and divided into 4 groups, i.e. (1) ECV304 group, (2) ECV304 + conA group [with conA (25 microg/ml in culture) added to ECV304], (3) ECV304 + U937 group (with 1 x 10(5)/ml of U937 cells added to 1 x 10(5)/ml ECV 304), (4) ECV304 + U937 + conA group [with 1 x 10(5)/ml of U937 cells and conA (25 microg/ml in culture)] groups. Forty-eight hours after culturing, the expression of integrin receptor alpha nu beta3 and the changes in the expression of KDR mRNA and HOXB2 mRNA in each group were determined by immunofluorescent technique and RT-PCR, respectively. The expression of integrin receptor alpha nu beta3, KDR mRNA, and HOXB2 mRNA in ECV304 group were 6.7 +/- 1.5, 0.633 +/- 0.012, and 0.674 +/- 0.004, respectively, while those in ECV304 + U937 + conA group (10.2 +/- 1.7, 0.879 +/- 0.003, 0.947 +/- 0.003) were obviously more upregulated when compared with those in ECV304 group (P < 0.01). No difference in the above indices was found between ECV304 and ECV304 + conA, ECV304 + U937 groups (P > 0.05). Macrophages activated by ConA can accelerate the proliferation, migration and adhesion to the basement membrane matrix of vascular endothelial cells through the influence on the expression of KDR mRNA, HOXB2 mRNA and integrin alpha nu beta3, and through this pathway the angiogenesis is modulated.

Nutritional recovery with a soybean diet impaired the glucagon response but did not alter liver gluconeogenesis in the adult offspring of rats deprived of protein during pregnancy and lactation.

PubMed

Pacheco, Nelma Cristina Silva; de Almeida, Ana Paula Carli; de Siqueira, Kariny Cássia; de Lima, Faena Moura; Reis, Silvia Regina de Lima; Latorraca, Marcia Queiroz; Stoppiglia, Luiz Fabrizio

2018-06-22

Nutritional recovery of early malnutrition with soybean diet reduces liver glycogen stores in the fed state and produces liver insulin resistance. We investigated whether nutritional recovery on a soybean flour diet alters hepatic gluconeogenesis in the adult offspring of rats deprived of protein during pregnancy and lactation. Male rats from mothers that were fed either 17% (C) or 6% (L) protein during pregnancy and lactation were maintained on a 17% casein (CC, n=16 and LC, n=17), 17% soybean flour (CS, n=10 and LS, n=10) or 6% casein (LL, n=10) diet after weaning. The soybean diet reduced basal serum glucose (soybean diet=5.6±0.6 mmol/L vs casein diet= 6.2±0.6 mmol/L; p<0.05), but increased alanine aminotransferase mRNA/GAPDH (soybean diet =0.062 ±0.038 vs casein diet= 0.024 ±0.011; p<0.01) and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase mRNA/GAPDH (soybean diet =1.53 ±0.52 vs casein diet= 0.95 ±0.43; p<0.05), and the glycerokinase protein content (soybean diet =0.86 ±0.08 vs casein diet= 0.75 ±0.11; p<0.05). The serum glucose concentration (recovered groups=5.6±0.5mmol/L vs control groups=6.2±0.7mmol/L, p<0.05) and pophosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase activity (recovered groups=2.8±0.6μU/mg vs control groups=3.6±0.6μU/mg; p<0.05) were decreased in rats subjected to protein restriction in early life. The glucose area under the curve during the pyruvate tolerance test did not differ among the groups, whereas glucose area under the curve after glucagon infusion was reduced by early malnutrition (recovered groups=4210±572mg/dL.40min vs control groups=4493±688mg/dL.40min; p<0.001), and by the soybean diet (soybean diet= 3995±500mg/dL.40min vs casein diet=4686±576 mg/dL.40min, p<0.05). Thus, soybean diet impaired the response to glucagon, but did not alter gluconeogenesis.

String of Pearls: Meeting the Challenge of China’s Rising Power across the Asian Littoral

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-07-01

Forecasting, July 11, 2005. 62. Seth Mydans, "New Group for Asian Century Shuns U.S.," International Herald Tribune, December 12, 2005. 63. Robert G. Sutter...Glenn Kessler , "U.S. Says China Must Address Its Intentions: How Its Power Will Be Used Is of Concern," Washington Post, September 22, 2005, p. A-16...n.p. On line. Internet, November 8, 2005. Available from www.theatlantic.com/doc/prem/2005O6Aaplan. Kessler , Glenn. "U.S. Says China Must Address Its

Conference on Medical Results of the First U.S. Manned Suborbital Space Flight

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1961-01-01

This document is a compilation of papers presented at a Conference on the Medical Results of the First U.S. Manned Suborbital Space Flight. This conference was held by the NASA, in cooperation with the National Institutes of Health and the National Academy of Sciences, at the U.S. Department of State Auditorium on June 6, 1961. The papers were prepared by representatives of the NASA Space Task Group in collaboration with personnel from various Department of Defense medical installations, the University of Pennsylvania, and McDonnell Aircraft Corporation.

AMPKα, hs-CRP and FcγR in diabetic nephropathy and drug intervention.

PubMed

Sun, Ping; Lu, Lei; Chen, Jun; Liu, Xiao Dan; Zhang, Qing; Wang, Xu

2018-06-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the roles of AMP-activated protein kinase α subunit (AMPKα), hypersensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and Fcγ receptor (FcγR) in diabetic nephropathy and drug intervention effects. Sixty Sprague Dawley male rats were randomly divided into the control (n=30) and observation (n=30) groups. The model of type 2 diabetic nephropathy was established by high-fat and high-glucose diet and streptozotocin injection. The rats in the observation group were treated with baicalein and the rats in control group did not receive any drug intervention. The pathological changes of kidneys were observed by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. The expression of AMPKα mRNA in renal tissue was detected by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The levels of hs-CRP and FcγR were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) at 1, 4, 6 and 8 weeks after drug intervention and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and the 24 h urinary micro-albumin (U-ALB) levels were compared at 1, 4, 6 and 8 weeks after intervention. After 8 weeks of drug intervention, the pathological changes of kidneys in the observation group were significantly lower than those in the control group (p<0.05), while the relative expression levels of AMPKα mRNA and protein in the control group were higher than those in the observation group (p<0.05). The levels of hs-CRP, BUN and 24 h U-ALB in the control group were significantly higher than those in the observation group at different time-points after drug intervention and the level of FcγR in the control group was significantly lower than that in the observation group (p<0.05). Baicalein may protect renal function by inhibiting the expression of AMPKα and inflammatory reaction, and can also decrease BUN and 24 h U-ALB levels and improve the pathological changes of the kidney.

Simultaneous interaction with base and phosphate moieties modulates the phosphodiester cleavage of dinucleoside 3',5'-monophosphates by dinuclear Zn2+ complexes of di(azacrown) ligands.

PubMed

Wang, Qi; Lönnberg, Harri

2006-08-23

Five dinucleating ligands (1-5) and one trinucleating ligand (6) incorporating 1,5,9-triazacyclododecan-3-yloxy groups attached to an aromatic scaffold have been synthesized. The ability of the Zn(2+) complexes of these ligands to promote the transesterification of dinucleoside 3',5'-monophosphates to a 2',3'-cyclic phosphate derived from the 3'-linked nucleoside by release of the 5'-linked nucleoside has been studied over a narrow pH range, from pH 5.8 to 7.2, at 90 degrees C. The dinuclear complexes show marked base moiety selectivity. Among the four dinucleotide 3',5'-phosphates studied, viz. adenylyl-3',5'-adenosine (ApA), adenylyl-3',5'-uridine (ApU), uridylyl-3',5'-adenosine (UpA), and uridylyl-3',5'-uridine (UpU), the dimers containing one uracil base (ApU and UpA) are cleaved up to 2 orders of magnitude more readily than those containing either two uracil bases (UpU) or two adenine bases (ApA). The trinuclear complex (6), however, cleaves UpU as readily as ApU and UpA, while the cleavage of ApA remains slow. UV spectrophotometric and (1)H NMR spectroscopic studies with one of the dinucleating ligands (3) verify binding to the bases of UpU and ApU at less than millimolar concentrations, while no interaction with the base moieties of ApA is observed. With ApU and UpA, one of the Zn(2+)-azacrown moieties in all likelihood anchors the cleaving agent to the uracil base of the substrate, while the other azacrown moiety serves as a catalyst for the phosphodiester transesterification. With UpU, two azacrown moieties are engaged in the base moiety binding. The catalytic activity is, hence, lost, but it can be restored by addition of a third azacrown group on the cleaving agent.

Quantifying the eating abnormalities in frontotemporal dementia.

PubMed

Ahmed, Rebekah M; Irish, Muireann; Kam, Jonathan; van Keizerswaard, Jolanda; Bartley, Lauren; Samaras, Katherine; Hodges, John R; Piguet, Olivier

2014-12-01

Presence of eating abnormalities is one of the core criteria for the diagnosis of behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD), yet their occurrence in other subtypes of frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and effect on metabolic health is not known. To define and quantify patterns of eating behavior and energy, sugar, carbohydrate, protein, and fat intake, as well as indices of metabolic health in patients with bvFTD and semantic dementia (SD) compared with patients with Alzheimer disease (AD) and healthy control participants. Prospective case-controlled study involving patient and caregiver completion of surveys. Seventy-five participants with dementia (21 with bvFTD, 26 with SD, and 28 with AD) and 18 age- and education-matched healthy controls were recruited from FRONTIER, the FTD research clinic at Neuroscience Research Australia in Sydney. Caregivers of patients with FTD and AD completed validated questionnaires on appetite, eating behaviors, energy consumption, and dietary macronutrient composition. All participants completed surveys on hunger and satiety. Body mass index and weight measurements were prospectively collected. The bvFTD group had significant abnormalities in the domains of appetite (U = 111.0, z = 2.7, P = .007), eating habits (U = 69.5, z = 3.8, P = .001), food preferences (U = 57.0, z = 4.1, P = .001), swallowing (U = 109.0, z = 3.0, P = .003), and other oral behaviors (U = 141.0, z = 2.6, P = .009) compared with the AD group. The bvFTD and SD groups tended to have increased energy consumption. Compared with controls, the bvFTD group had significantly increased carbohydrate intake (251 vs 170 g/d; P = .05) and the SD group had significantly increased sugar intake (114 vs 76 g/d; P = .049). No significant differences in total fat or protein intake between the groups were found. Despite similar energy intake, the SD group had lower hunger and satiety scores compared with the bvFTD group. In contrast, hunger and satiety scores did not differ between the bvFTD group and controls. The abnormal eating behavior was found in the 2 groups (bvFTD and SD) with the highest body mass index (F = 4.2, P = .008) and waist circumference (F = 6.4, P = .001). Abnormal eating behaviors are prominent in patients with bvFTD and those with SD and are not limited to increased appetite. The observed higher intake of sugar and carbohydrates was found in patients with the FTD subtypes and those with higher body mass index and waist circumference and was not explained simply by increased hunger or lower satiety.

Exceptional Form of D=11 Supergravity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hohm, Olaf; Samtleben, Henning

2013-12-01

Eleven-dimensional supergravity reveals large exceptional symmetries upon reduction, in accordance with the U-duality groups of M theory, but their higher-dimensional geometric origin has remained a mystery. In this Letter, we show that D=11 supergravity can be extended to be fully covariant under the exceptional groups En(n), n=6, 7, 8. Motivated by a similar formulation of double field theory we introduce an extended “exceptional spacetime.” We illustrate the construction by giving the explicit E6(6) covariant form: the full D=11 supergravity, in a 5+6 splitting of coordinates but without truncation, embeds into an E6(6) covariant 5+27 dimensional theory. We argue that this covariant form likewise comprises type IIB supergravity.

Effects of overtraining on skeletal muscle growth and gene expression.

PubMed

Xiao, W; Chen, P; Dong, J

2012-10-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of overtraining on skeletal muscle growth and growth-related gene expression. The rats of overtraining group (OT) and overtraining recovery group (OTR) were subject to 11 experimental weeks of overtraining protocol. It was found that the absolute gastrocnemius muscle wet weight of the OT group was significantly lower than that of the sedentary group (23.6%, P<0.01). Serum creatine kinase was significantly higher in the OT and OTR groups than the sedentary group. CD68, CD163, MyoD, myogenin, IL-1β, TNF-α, IGF-I and MGF mRNA did not change in the OT group as compared with the sedentary group. IL-6 and TGF-β1 mRNA in the OT group increased significantly as compared with the sedentary group (2.17 fold and 1.78 fold, respectively; P<0.01). IL-10 mRNA decreased significantly in the OT group (63%, P<0.01) and the OTR group (77%, P<0.01) compared to the sedentary group. COX-2 mRNA decreased significantly in the OT group (60%, P<0.01) and the OTR group (69%, P<0.01) from the sedentary group. uPA mRNA in the OT group was significantly lower than that in the sedentary group (32%, P<0.01). These data suggest that inflammatory cytokines, COX-2 and uPA may play roles in the inhibition of skeletal muscle growth induced by overtraining. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Afghanistan: Post-Taliban Governance, Security, and U.S. Policy

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-09-17

plant in Sudan (Al Shifa) believe to be producing chemical weapons for Al Qaeda also was struck that day, although U.S. reviews later corroborated...Sudan’s assertions that the plant was strictly civilian in nature. 6 http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/4540958. Afghanistan: Post-Taliban Governance...point where it might not be commercially profitable for China Metallurgical Group, includes construction of two coal-fired electric power plant (one

Are drowned donors marginal donors? A single pediatric center experience.

PubMed

Kumm, Kayla R; Galván, N Thao N; Koohmaraie, Sarah; Rana, Abbas; Kueht, Michael; Baugh, Katherine; Hao, Liu; Yoeli, Dor; Cotton, Ronald; O'Mahony, Christine A; Goss, John A

2017-09-01

Drowning, a common cause of death in the pediatric population, is a potentially large donor pool for OLT. Anecdotally, transplant centers have deemed these organs high risk over concerns for infection and graft dysfunction. We theorized drowned donor liver allografts do not portend worse outcomes and therefore should not be excluded from the donation pool. We reviewed our single-center experience of pediatric OLTs between 1988 and 2015 and identified 33 drowned donor recipients. These OLTs were matched 1:2 to head trauma donor OLTs from our center. A chart review assessed postoperative peak AST and ALT, incidence of HAT, graft and recipient survival. Recipient survival at one year between patients with drowned donor vs head trauma donor allografts was not statistically significant (94% vs 97%, P=.63). HAT incidence was 6.1% in the drowned donor group vs 7.6% in the control group (P=.78). Mean postoperative peak AST and ALT was 683 U/L and 450 U/L for drowned donors vs 1119 U/L and 828 U/L in the matched cohort. These results suggest drowned donor liver allografts do not portend worse outcomes in comparison with those procured from head trauma donors. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

An Acoustic Study of Vowels Produced by Alaryngeal Speakers in Taiwan.

PubMed

Liao, Jia-Shiou

2016-11-01

This study investigated the acoustic properties of 6 Taiwan Southern Min vowels produced by 10 laryngeal speakers (LA), 10 speakers with a pneumatic artificial larynx (PA), and 8 esophageal speakers (ES). Each of the 6 monophthongs of Taiwan Southern Min (/i, e, a, ɔ, u, ə/) was represented by a Taiwan Southern Min character and appeared randomly on a list 3 times (6 Taiwan Southern Min characters × 3 repetitions = 18 tokens). Each Taiwan Southern Min character in this study has the same syllable structure, /V/, and all were read with tone 1 (high and level). Acoustic measurements of the 1st formant, 2nd formant, and 3rd formant were taken for each vowel. Then, vowel space areas (VSAs) enclosed by /i, a, u/ were calculated for each group of speakers. The Euclidean distance between vowels in the pairs /i, a/, /i, u/, and /a, u/ was also calculated and compared across the groups. PA and ES have higher 1st or 2nd formant values than LA for each vowel. The distance is significantly shorter between vowels in the corner vowel pairs /i, a/ and /i, u/. PA and ES have a significantly smaller VSA compared with LA. In accordance with previous studies, alaryngeal speakers have higher formant frequency values than LA because they have a shortened vocal tract as a result of their total laryngectomy. Furthermore, the resonance frequencies are inversely related to the length of the vocal tract (on the basis of the assumption of the source filter theory). PA and ES have a smaller VSA and shorter distances between corner vowels compared with LA, which may be related to speech intelligibility. This hypothesis needs further support from future study.

Air pollution and urinary n-acetyl-B-glucosaminidase levels in residents living near a cement plant.

PubMed

Jung, Min Soo; Kim, Jae Yoon; Lee, Hyun Seung; Lee, Chul Gab; Song, Han Soo

2016-01-01

To identify adverse renal effects due to air pollution derived from a cement plant in Korea. Urinary n-acetyl-B-glucosaminidase (U-NAG) levels in residents living near a cement plant were compared to those in a group who lived farther away from the plant. From June to August 2013 and from August to November 2014, laboratory tests for U-NAG and heavy metal were conducted on 547 study participants. Based on the level of air pollution exposure, subjects were divided into the "less exposed group," (LEG) which consisted of 66 persons who lived more than 5 km away from the cement plant, the "more exposed group from the rural area" (MEG-R), which consisted of 272 persons, and the "more exposed group from downtown area" (MEG-D), which consisted of 209 persons who lived within a 1 km radius of the cement plant. U-NAG levels >5.67 U/L were defined as "higher U-NAG" levels. We compared the prevalence of higher U-NAG levels and estimated the adjusted odds ratio (OR) by air pollution exposure using a chi-square test and multiple logistic regression analysis. Further, we estimated the interaction between air pollution exposure and heavy metal exposure in renal toxicity. The OR of higher U-NAG levels by MEG-D and MEG-R compared to LEG was 2.13 (95 % CI 0.86-4.96) and 4.79 (95 CI 1.65-10.01), respectively. Urinary cadmium (U-Cd), urinary mercury (U-Hg), age, occupation, hypertension, and diabetes had a significant association with higher U-NAG levels. However, blood lead (B-Pb), sex, and smoking were not associated with higher U-NAG. Especially, concurrent exposure to heavy metals (U-Hg or/and U-Cd) and air pollution had an additive adverse effect. In the group with both 4 th quartile heavy metal exposure (U-Cd or/and U-Hg) and air pollution exposure, the OR in MEG-R and MEG-D was 6.49 (95 % 1.42-29.65) and 8.12 (95 % CI 1.74-37.92), respectively, after adjustment for age, occupation, hypertension, diabetes. U-NAG levels seem to be affected by air pollution exposure as well as age, hypertension, diabetes, and even low levels of cadmium and low levels of mercury. Moreover, concurrent exposure to heavy metals and air pollution can have additive cytotoxic renal effects.

Workforce Retention Study in Support of the U.S. Army Aberdeen Test Center Human Capital Management Strategy

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-09-01

Sciences Group 6% 1550s Computer Scientists Group 5% Other 1500s ORSAa, Mathematics, & Statistics Group 3% 1600s Equipment & Facilities Group 4...Employee removal based on misconduct, delinquency , suitability, unsatisfactory performance, or failure to qualify for conversion to a career appointment...average of 10.4% in many areas, but over double the average for the 1550s (Computer Scientists) and other 1500s (ORSA, Mathematics, and Statistics ). Also

Counter-Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Warfare: Kill Authorizations for the Carrier Strike Group

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-06-10

COUNTER-UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLE WARFARE: KILL AUTHORIZATIONS FOR THE CARRIER STRIKE GROUP A thesis presented to the Faculty...the Carrier Strike Group 5a. CONTRACT NUMBER 5b. GRANT NUMBER 5c. PROGRAM ELEMENT NUMBER 6. AUTHOR(S) LCDR Joshua C. Mattingly, U.S...including armed UAVs in an offensive role, but counter- UAV warfare is a new warfare area within the larger realm of air defense. Small Group 1 and 2

Quantitative high-efficiency cadmium-zinc-telluride SPECT with dedicated parallel-hole collimation system in obese patients: results of a multi-center study.

PubMed

Nakazato, Ryo; Slomka, Piotr J; Fish, Mathews; Schwartz, Ronald G; Hayes, Sean W; Thomson, Louise E J; Friedman, John D; Lemley, Mark; Mackin, Maria L; Peterson, Benjamin; Schwartz, Arielle M; Doran, Jesse A; Germano, Guido; Berman, Daniel S

2015-04-01

Obesity is a common source of artifact on conventional SPECT myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI). We evaluated image quality and diagnostic performance of high-efficiency (HE) cadmium-zinc-telluride parallel-hole SPECT MPI for coronary artery disease (CAD) in obese patients. 118 consecutive obese patients at three centers (BMI 43.6 ± 8.9 kg·m(-2), range 35-79.7 kg·m(-2)) had upright/supine HE-SPECT and invasive coronary angiography > 6 months (n = 67) or low likelihood of CAD (n = 51). Stress quantitative total perfusion deficit (TPD) for upright (U-TPD), supine (S-TPD), and combined acquisitions (C-TPD) was assessed. Image quality (IQ; 5 = excellent; < 3 nondiagnostic) was compared among BMI 35-39.9 (n = 58), 40-44.9 (n = 24) and ≥45 (n = 36) groups. ROC curve area for CAD detection (≥50% stenosis) for U-TPD, S-TPD, and C-TPD were 0.80, 0.80, and 0.87, respectively. Sensitivity/specificity was 82%/57% for U-TPD, 74%/71% for S-TPD, and 80%/82% for C-TPD. C-TPD had highest specificity (P = .02). C-TPD normalcy rate was higher than U-TPD (88% vs 75%, P = .02). Mean IQ was similar among BMI 35-39.9, 40-44.9 and ≥45 groups [4.6 vs 4.4 vs 4.5, respectively (P = .6)]. No patient had a nondiagnostic stress scan. In obese patients, HE-SPECT MPI with dedicated parallel-hole collimation demonstrated high image quality, normalcy rate, and diagnostic accuracy for CAD by quantitative analysis of combined upright/supine acquisitions.

Quantitative High-Efficiency Cadmium-Zinc-Telluride SPECT with Dedicated Parallel-Hole Collimation System in Obese Patients: Results of a Multi-Center Study

PubMed Central

Nakazato, Ryo; Slomka, Piotr J.; Fish, Mathews; Schwartz, Ronald G.; Hayes, Sean W.; Thomson, Louise E.J.; Friedman, John D.; Lemley, Mark; Mackin, Maria L.; Peterson, Benjamin; Schwartz, Arielle M.; Doran, Jesse A.; Germano, Guido; Berman, Daniel S.

2014-01-01

Background Obesity is a common source of artifact on conventional SPECT myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI). We evaluated image quality and diagnostic performance of high-efficiency (HE) cadmium-zinc-telluride (CZT) parallel-hole SPECT-MPI for coronary artery disease (CAD) in obese patients. Methods and Results 118 consecutive obese patients at 3 centers (BMI 43.6±8.9 kg/m2, range 35–79.7 kg/m2) had upright/supine HE-SPECT and ICA >6 months (n=67) or low-likelihood of CAD (n=51). Stress quantitative total perfusion deficit (TPD) for upright (U-TPD), supine (S-TPD) and combined acquisitions (C-TPD) was assessed. Image quality (IQ; 5=excellent; <3 nondiagnostic) was compared among BMI 35–39.9 (n=58), 40–44.9 (n=24) and ≥45 (n=36) groups. ROC-curve area for CAD detection (≥50% stenosis) for U-TPD, S-TPD, and C-TPD were 0.80, 0.80, and 0.87, respectively. Sensitivity/specificity was 82%/57% for U-TPD, 74%/71% for S-TPD, and 80%/82% for C-TPD. C-TPD had highest specificity (P=.02). C-TPD normalcy rate was higher than U-TPD (88% vs. 75%, P=.02). Mean IQ was similar among BMI 35–39.9, 40–44.9 and ≥45 groups [4.6 vs. 4.4 vs. 4.5, respectively (P=.6)]. No patient had a non-diagnostic stress scan. Conclusions In obese patients, HE-SPECT MPI with dedicated parallel-hole collimation demonstrated high image quality, normalcy rate, and diagnostic accuracy for CAD by quantitative analysis of combined upright/supine acquisitions. PMID:25388380

Adjusting CA19-9 values to predict malignancy in obstructive jaundice: Influence of bilirubin and C-reactive protein

PubMed Central

La Greca, Gaetano; Sofia, Maria; Lombardo, Rosario; Latteri, Saverio; Ricotta, Agostino; Puleo, Stefano; Russello, Domenico

2012-01-01

AIM: To find a possible relationship between inflammation and CA19-9 tumor marker by analyzing data from patients with benign jaundice (BJ) and malignant jaundice (MJ). METHODS: All patients admitted for obstructive jaundice, in the period 2005-2009, were prospectively enrolled in the study, obtaining a total of 102 patients. On admission, all patients underwent complete standard blood test examinations including C-reactive protein (CRP), bilirubin, CA19-9. Patients were considered eligible for the study when they presented obstructive jaundice confirmed by instrumental examinations and increased serum bilirubin levels (total bilirubin > 2.0 mg/dL). The standard cut-off level for CA19-9 was 32 U/mL, whereas for CRP this was 1.5 mg/L. The CA19-9 level was adjusted by dividing it by the value of serum bilirubin or by the CRP value. The patients were divided into 2 groups, MJ and BJ, and after the adjustment a comparison between the 2 groups of patients was performed. Sensitivity, specificity and positive predictive values were calculated before and after the adjustment. RESULTS: Of the 102 patients, 51 were affected by BJ and 51 by MJ. Pathologic CA19-9 levels were found in 71.7% of the patients. In the group of 51 BJ patients there were 29 (56.9%) males and 22 (43.1%) females with a median age of 66 years (range 24-96 years), whereas in the MJ group there were 24 (47%) males and 27 (53%) females, with a mean age of 70 years (range 30-92 years). Pathologic CA19-9 serum level was found in 82.3% of MJ. CRP levels were pathologic in 66.6% of the patients with BJ and in 49% with MJ. Bilirubin and CA19-9 average levels were significantly higher in MJ compared with BJ (P = 0.000 and P = 0.02), while the CRP level was significantly higher in BJ (P = 0.000). Considering a CA19-9 cut-off level of 32 U/mL, 82.3% in the MJ group and 54.9% in the BJ group were positive for CA19-9 (P = 0.002). A CA19-9 cut-off of 100 U/mL increases the difference between the two groups: 35.3% in BJ and 68.6% in MJ (P = 0.0007). Adjusting the CA19-9 value by dividing it by serum bilirubin level meant that 21.5% in the BJ and 49% in the MJ group remained with a positive CA19-9 value (P = 0.003), while adjusting the CA19-9 value by dividing it by serum CRP value meant that 31.4% in the BJ group and 76.5% in the MJ group still had a positive CA19-9 value (P = 0.000004). Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive values of CA19-9 > 32 U/mL were 82.3%, 45% and 59.1%; when the cut-off was CA19-9 > 100 U/mL they were, respectively, 68.6%, 64.7% and 66%. When the CA19-9 value was adjusted by dividing it by the bilirubin or CRP values, these became 49%, 78.4%, 69.4% and 76.5%, 68.6%, 70.9%, respectively. CONCLUSION: The present study proposes CRP as a new and useful correction factor to improve the diagnostic value of the CA19-9 tumor marker in patients with cholestatic jaundice. PMID:22919247

Cytoprotective effects of amifostine, ascorbic acid and N-acetylcysteine against methotrexate-induced hepatotoxicity in rats

PubMed Central

Akbulut, Sami; Elbe, Hulya; Eris, Cengiz; Dogan, Zumrut; Toprak, Gulten; Otan, Emrah; Erdemli, Erman; Turkoz, Yusuf

2014-01-01

AIM: To investigate the potential role of oxidative stress and the possible therapeutic effects of N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), amifostine (AMF) and ascorbic acid (ASC) in methotrexate (MTX)-induced hepatotoxicity. METHODS: An MTX-induced hepatotoxicity model was established in 44 male Sprague Dawley rats by administration of a single intraperitoneal injection of 20 mg/kg MTX. Eleven of the rats were left untreated (Model group; n = 11), and the remaining rats were treated with a 7-d course of 50 mg/kg per day NAC (MTX + NAC group; n = 11), 50 mg/kg per single dose AMF (MTX + AMF group; n = 11), or 10 mg/kg per day ASC (MTX + ASC group; n = 11). Eleven rats that received no MTX and no treatments served as the negative control group. Structural and functional changes related to MTX- and the various treatments were assessed by histopathological analysis of liver tissues and biochemical assays of malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, glutathione (GSH) and xanthine oxidase activities and of serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase and total bilirubin. RESULTS: Exposure to MTX caused structural and functional hepatotoxicity, as evidenced by significantly worse histopathological scores [median (range) injury score: control group: 1 (0-3) vs 7 (6-9), P = 0.001] and significantly higher MDA activity [409 (352-466) nmol/g vs 455.5 (419-516) nmol/g, P < 0.05]. The extent of MTX-induced perturbation of both parameters was reduced by all three cytoprotective agents, but only the reduction in hepatotoxicity scores reached statistical significance [4 (3-6) for NAC, 4.5 (3-5) for AMF and 6 (5-6) for ASC; P = 0.001, P = 0.001 and P < 0.005 vs model group respectively]. Exposure to MTX also caused a significant reduction in the activities of GSH and SOD antioxidants in liver tissues [control group: 3.02 (2.85-3.43) μmol/g and 71.78 (61.88-97.81) U/g vs model group: 2.52 (2.07-3.34) μmol/g and 61.46 (58.27-67.75) U/g, P < 0.05]; however, only the NAC treatment provided significant increases in these antioxidant enzyme activities [3.22 (2.54-3.62) μmol/g and 69.22 (61.13-100.88) U/g, P < 0.05 and P < 0.01 vs model group respectively]. CONCLUSION: MTX-induced structural and functional damage to hepatic tissues in rats may involve oxidative stress, and cytoprotective agents (NAC > AMF > ASC) may alleviate MTX hepatotoxicity. PMID:25110444

Chronic postthoracotomy pain and perioperative ketamine infusion.

PubMed

Hu, Jie; Liao, Qin; Zhang, Fan; Tong, Jianbin; Ouyang, Wen

2014-06-01

The objectives of this study were to investigate whether continuous intravenous ketamine during the first 72 hours after thoracotomy could reduce the incidence and intensity of chronic postthoracotomy pain (CPTP) and to define the incidence and risk factors of CPTP. Seventy-eight patients receiving thoracotomy for lung tumor (benign or malignant) were randomly divided into two groups: ketamine group (n = 31) and control groups (n = 47). Patients in the ketamine group received intravenous ketamine 1 mg/kg before incision, followed by 2 μg/kg/minute infusion for 72 hours plus sufentanil patient-controlled intravenous analgesia after thoracotomy. Patients in the control group received intravenous a 0.9% normal saline and infusion plus sufentanil patient-controlled intravenous analgesia. The solutions patients received were blinded. The numerical rating scale (NRS) pain scores and the incidence and risk factors of CPTP were recorded during the first 6 months after surgery. Compared with control group, the incidence of chronic pain in the ketamine group did not decrease at 2 months (χ(2) = 1.599, P = .206) and 6 months (χ(2) = 0.368, P = .544) after surgery. Postoperative pain scores in the ketamine group were not significantly different from those of the control group patients at 2 months (U = 677.5, P = .593) and 6 months (U = 690.5, P = .680). The incidence of CPTP was 78.2% (61/78) at 2 months and 53.8% (42/78) at 6 months after surgery. Retractor used time (OR = 5.811, P = .002), inadequate acute pain control (NRS ≥ 5) (OR = 5.425, P = .048), and chemotherapy (OR = 3.784, P = .056) were independent risk factors for chronic postthoracotomy pain. The authors conclude that continuous intravenous ketamine (2 μg/kg/min) during the first 72 hours after thoracotomy was not beneficial to prevent chronic postthoracotomy pain. The independent risk factors for chronic postthoracotomy pain were retractor used time, inadequate acute pain control, and chemotherapy.

Effect of grape seed extract against biodegradation of composite resin-dentin shear bond strength

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Generosa, D. M.; Suprastiwi, E.; Asrianti, D.

2017-08-01

This study aimed to analyze the effect of grape seed extract (GSE) on resin-dentin shear bond strength. A group of 48 dentin samples were divided into 6 groups. The six groups, each with eight specimens, included group 1 (control), group 2 (control + NaOCl 10%), group 3 (2.9% GSE application before etching), group 4 (2.9% GSE application before etching + NaOCl 10%), group 5 (2.9% GSE application after etching), and group 6 (2.9% GSE application after etching + NaOCl 10%). Shear bond strengths were measured using a universal testing machine. Statistical analysis was done with the Kruskal-Wallis test and the Mann-Whitney U test. The highest median value was in group 3, and the lowest value was in group 5. GSE can improve the shear bond strength (p = 0.002 and 0.001), but it has no effect on reducing biodegradation (p = 0.141).

Report of the Task Force for Improved Coordination of the DoD Science and Technology Program. Volume 2. Reports of the Working Groups. Working Group A: Strategic Planning. Working Group B: Program Coordination. Working Group C: Advocacy

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-08-01

OperabllY 19 Technolofy Area Summaries 20 Major Technology Thrws 21 Air Force S&T Investment Summary 25 Program Objectives 28 Glcazy 30 1. D-6 TH~E...8217lRI-TAC Advrane Plannzn Sy-i Mulima Radio AWAM3 IRP JSTARS fris MmAvne Anhn ABOCC 37=6 Comb !dftica~ S~ Surance Radar Ewm EAVZ SYNC Media . R~u... Social Sciences 5001 Eisenhower Avenue Alexandria VA 22333-5600 Col. Harry G. Dangerfield Telephone: (301) 663-7443 Executive Assistant to the PEO for

Regional variations of basal cell carcinoma incidence in the U.K. using The Health Improvement Network database (2004-10).

PubMed

Musah, A; Gibson, J E; Leonardi-Bee, J; Cave, M R; Ander, E L; Bath-Hextall, F

2013-11-01

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is one of the most common types of nonmelanoma skin cancer affecting the white population; however, little is known about how the incidence varies across the U.K. To determine the variation in BCC throughout the U.K. Data from 2004 to 2010 were obtained from The Health Improvement Network database. European and world age-standardized incidence rates (EASRs and WASRs, respectively) were obtained for country-level estimates and levels of socioeconomic deprivation, while strategic health-authority-level estimates were directly age and sex standardized to the U.K. standard population. Incidence-rate ratios were estimated using multivariable Poisson regression models. The overall EASR and WASR of BCC in the U.K. were 98.6 per 100,000 person-years and 66.9 per 100,000 person-years, respectively. Regional-level incidence rates indicated a significant geographical variation in the distribution of BCC, which was more pronounced in the southern parts of the country. The South East Coast had the highest BCC rate followed by South Central, Wales and the South West. Incidence rates were substantially higher in the least deprived groups and we observed a trend of decreasing incidence with increasing levels of deprivation (P < 0.001). Finally, in terms of age groups, the largest annual increase was observed among those aged 30-49 years. Basal cell carcinoma is an increasing health problem in the U.K.; the southern regions of the U.K. and those in the least deprived groups had a higher incidence of BCC. Our findings indicate an increased incidence of BCC for younger age groups below 49 years. © 2013 British Association of Dermatologists.

Competitive Wrestling-related Injuries in School Aged Athletes in U.S. Emergency Departments

PubMed Central

Myers, Richard J.; Linakis, Seth W.; Mello, Michael J.; Linakis, James G.

2010-01-01

Objective To describe the characteristics of wrestling injuries occurring in male athletes aged 7–17 treated in United States (U.S.) emergency departments (ED) from 2000–2006, and to compare injury patterns between younger & older youth wrestlers. Methods A stratified probability sample of U.S. hospitals providing emergency services in the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System was used for 2000–2006. ED visits for injuries sustained in organized wrestling were analyzed for male patients ages 7–17 years old (subdivided into 7–11 years old [youth group] and 12–17 years old [scholastic group]). Results During the study period, there were an estimated 167,606 ED visits for wrestling injuries in 7–17 years old U.S. males, with 152,710 (91.1%) occurring in the older (12–17 years old) group. The annual injury incidence was 6.49 injuries/1,000 wrestlers in the youth group and 29.57 injuries/1,000 wrestlers in the scholastic group. The distribution of diagnoses was similar in both age groups, with sprain/strain as the most common diagnosis, followed by fracture and contusion/abrasion. Distributions of injury by location were significantly different between groups (p=0.02), although both groups exhibited approximately 75% of all injuries from the waist up. Overexertion and struck by/against were the most common precipitating and direct mechanisms in both groups, respectively. Over 97% of all injured wrestlers were treated and released. Conclusion The types of injury in youth (7–11 years old) wrestlers are similar to those of scholastic (12–17 years old) wrestlers, although the distribution of body parts injured differs between the age groups. The majority of injuries occurs above the waist and may be a target for prevention strategies. PMID:21293763

Severe maternal undernutrition and post-weaning behavior of rabbits.

PubMed

Simitzis, Panagiotis E; Symeon, George K; Kominakis, Antonios P; Bizelis, Iosif A; Chadio, Stella E; Abas, Zafeiris; Deligeorgis, Stelios G

2015-03-15

The objective of the present experiment was to investigate the implications of severe maternal undernutrition on the post-weaning behavior of rabbits. Thirty two does were randomly assigned to four groups: the control group (C) that was fed 100% of the recommended energy maintenance requirements throughout pregnancy and lactation and the U1, U2 and U3 groups that were fed 50% of the recommended energy maintenance requirements between the 6th and the 19th day of pregnancy, between the 20th and the 27th day of pregnancy and between the 3rd and the 10th day of lactation, respectively. At the age of 50 and 65 days, behavior of rabbits in cages was recorded and rabbits were further subjected to an open-field test; a paradigm used as an indicator of fear and emotional distress. Significant differences were found between the U2 and the other experimental groups for the duration of eating and drinking, and duration of locomotory and investigatory behaviors (P<0.05). At the age of 65 days, duration of comfort behaviors was also lower in the U2 compared to the other groups (P<0.05). On the other hand, duration of resting appeared to be the highest in the group of rabbits born from undernourished does between the 20th and the 27th day of pregnancy (P<0.05). Duration of resting was significantly increased, although frequency and duration of eating and drinking were significantly decreased at the age of 65 days (P<0.05). Male rabbits had greater values for locomotory and investigatory behaviors, and duration of eating and drinking compared to the females (P<0.01). A decreased activity of rabbits during the light period was observed (as expected), whereas an increase in duration of locomotory and investigatory behaviors was observed during the first four and the last 4h of the light and dark periods, respectively (P<0.05). Rabbits born from the U1 and U2 group of does displayed increased rates of latency to leave the start position compared to the other groups during the implementation of the open-field test (P<0.05). No other significant differences in the exhibition of the examined behaviors were found between the treatment groups, with the exception of 'moving forelegs' activity that had the lowest value in the U3 group of rabbits. It is concluded that severe maternal undernutrition (50% of the recommended maintenance requirements) especially between the 20th and the 27th day of pregnancy has significant effects on the exhibition of rabbits' post-weaning behavior, since the offspring from the U2 undernourished does were significantly less active compared to the other experimental groups. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Characterization of PAH matrix with monazite stream containing uranium, gadolinium and iron

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

Pal, Sangita, E-mail: sangpal@barc.gov.in; Goswami, D.; Meena, Sher Singh

2016-05-23

Uranium (U) gadolinium (Gd) and iron (Fe) containing alkaline waste simulated effluent (relevant to alkaline effluent of monazite ore) has been treated with a novel amphoteric resin viz, Polyamidehydroxamate (PAH) containing amide and hydroxamic acid groups. The resin has been synthesized in an eco-friendly manner by polymerization nad conversion to functional groups characterized by FT-IR spectra and architectural overview by SEM. Coloration of the loaded matrix and de-coloration after extraction of uranium is the special characteristic of the matrix. Effluent streams have been analyzed by ICP-AES, U loaded PAH has been characterized by FT-IR, EXAFS, Gd and Fe by X-raymore » energy values of EDXRF at 6.053 KeVand 6.405 KeV respectively. The remarkable change has been observed in Mössbauer spectrum of Fe-loaded PAH samples.« less

Variation in bull beef quality due to ultimate muscle pH is correlated to endopeptidase and small heat shock protein levels.

PubMed

Pulford, D J; Dobbie, P; Fraga Vazquez, S; Fraser-Smith, E; Frost, D A; Morris, C A

2009-09-01

This study set out to determine if ultimate pH (pH(u)) affected the performance of intracellular small heat shock protein and endopeptidase dynamics in muscle during beef ageing. Longissimus dorsi muscles from 39 Angus or Limousin×Angus bulls were examined to see if pH(u) achieved at 22h post mortem (rigor) affected tenderness and water holding capacity of beef. Samples were segregated into three pH(u) groups termed high (pH>6.3), intermediate (5.73 days post mortem for intermediate pH(u) beef. High levels of alpha β-crystallin (aβC) at 22h post mortem coincided with delayed muscle protein degradation for low pH(u) beef. Our results support the hypothesis that aβC shields myofibrils and buffers against endopeptidase degradation of beef structure during ageing.

A comparison of the physical and anthropometric qualities explanatory of talent in the elite junior Australian football development pathway.

PubMed

Woods, Carl T; Cripps, Ashley; Hopper, Luke; Joyce, Christopher

2017-07-01

To compare the physical and anthropometric qualities explanatory of talent at two developmental levels in junior Australian football (AF). Cross-sectional observational. From a total of 134 juniors, two developmental levels were categorised; U16 (n=50; 15.6±0.3 y), U18 (n=84; 17.4±0.5 y). Within these levels, two groups were a priori defined; talent identified (U16; n=25; 15.7±0.2 y; U18 n=42; 17.5±0.4 y), non-talent identified (U16; n=25; 15.6±0.4 y; U18; n=42; 17.3±0.6 y). Players completed seven physical and anthropometric assessments commonly utilised for talent identification in AF. Binary logistic regression models were built to identify the qualities most explanatory of talent at each level. A combination of standing height, dominant leg dynamic vertical jump height and 20m sprint time provided the most parsimonious explanation of talent at the U16 level (AICc=60.05). At the U18 level, it was a combination of body mass and 20m sprint time that provided the most parsimonious explanation of talent (AICc=111.27). Despite similarities, there appears to be distinctive differences in physical and anthropometric qualities explanatory of talent at the U16 and U18 level. Coaches may view physical and anthropometric qualities more (or less) favourably at different levels of the AF developmental pathway. Given these results, future work should implement a longitudinal design, as physical and/or anthropometric qualities may deteriorate (or emerge) as junior AF players develop. Copyright © 2016 Sports Medicine Australia. All rights reserved.

Exercise Intensity and Technical Demands of Small-Sided Soccer Games for Under-12 and Under-14 Players: Effect of Area per Player.

PubMed

Martone, Domenico; Giacobbe, Moreno; Capobianco, Adriano; Imperlini, Esther; Mancini, Annamaria; Capasso, Mario; Buono, Pasqualina; Orrù, Stefania

2017-06-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of 6 different areas per player (AP) on exercise intensity (EI) measured during small-sided games (SSGs) and expressed as percentage of maximal heart rate (%MHR) and technical actions (TAs) involvement with the ball, crosses, headers, tackles, shots on goal, dribbling, passing, and target passing-in U-12 and U-14 soccer players during SSGs. Seventeen male U-12 soccer players (age 10.0 ± 0.5 years, body mass 39.3 ± 5.3 kg, and height 143.8 ± 4.6 cm) and 16 male U-14 soccer players (age 13.2 ± 0.3 years, body mass 46.6 ± 11.9 kg, and height 154.8 ± 8.5 cm) performed SSGs with different AP: 40, 50, 66.7, 90, 112.5, and 150 m. Our results indicate that at larger AP, the U-12 group's mean EI values were significantly higher than those at smaller AP (p ≤ 0.05); in addition, intergroup comparison showed that EI was higher in U-12 than that in U-14 players when AP of 112.5 and 150 m were considered (p ≤ 0.05). Technical action analysis evidenced that moving from smaller to larger AP, U-14 players adapted better to AP changes. In conclusion, these results suggest that AP influences differently EI and TAs in U-12 and U-14 players. Our results could be taken into account by conditioning coaches to better tailor the physiological and technical training in young players through the modulation of AP.

Decreased Urinary Sodium-to-urinary Creatinine Ratio Identifies Sodium Depletion in Pediatric Acute Gastroenteritis.

PubMed

Heinz-Erian, P; Akdar, Z; Haerter, B; Waldegger, S; Giner, T; Scholl-Bürgi, S; Mueller, T

2016-01-01

In acute gastroenteritis (AG) fecal losses may cause depletion of sodium (NaD) which may not be recognized because of normal plasma Na (pNa) concentrations. We studied the incidence of this state of normonatremic sodium depletion (NNaD) and the suitability of the urinary Na/urinary creatinine ratio (uNa/uCr) for diagnosing NNaD. 16 AG- and 16 healthy control children aged 0.8-15.0 years. Prospective cross sectional pilot study. Measurements of Na, K and creatinine in plasma (p) and urine (u). Calculation of uNa/uCr Ratio, fractional excretion of Na (FENa) and uNa/uK ratio as the hitherto best known parameters of prerenal Na depletion, respectively. pNa concentrations were normal in 15/16 AG patients (93.8%) with only one subnormal value of 133 mmol/L, and a mean value of 137.9±2.3 mmol/L not different from the normal control group (139.4±2.2 mmol/L). Also, mean uNa concentrations and uNa/uK ratios did not differ between both groups. However, uNa/uCr ratios were below normal in 13/16 AG children (81.3%) but normal in all healthy controls with a significantly lower mean value in the AG group (12.6±8.8 vs. 31.2±8.3 mmol/mmol; p<0.0001). Similarly, 14/16 AG patients (87.5%) had a decreased FENa<0.5% with a mean FENa value significantly lower than in controls (0.36±0.28% vs. 0.95±0.26%, p<0.0001). The good agreement between FENa and uNa/uCr results was also reflected by a high correlation coefficient of r=0.9333. The majority of AG patients was found to have NNaD as determined by uNa/uCr and FENa. Calculation of uNa/uCr may be useful for diagnosing NNaD in AG. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

[The influence of hypertensive perfusion on ultrastructure of gastrointestinal tissue and enzymology of pigs after cardiopulmonary resuscitation].

PubMed

Lu, Yi; Li, Chun-sheng

2013-02-01

To study ultrastructure of gastrointestinal tissue and enzymology in pigs after cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in conditions of hypertensive perfusion. Sixteen experimental pigs were induced ventricular fibrillation (VF) by direct current shock. CPR was conducted 4 minutes after VF, and 10 pigs were successfully resuscitated. These 10 pigs were divided into control group (n=5) and hypertensive perfusion group (n=5) through random number table method. Norepinephrine was administered to maintain the mean arterial pressure (MAP) at 130% of the baseline in the hypertensive perfusion group. Serum diamine oxidase (DAO) and gastrointestinal ATPase level were determined, and gastrointestinal mucosa damages were examined with light microscope, and mitochondria injury was observed by electric microscope 24 hours after recovery of spontaneous circulation (ROSC). The serum DAO level showed a significant increase at 2 hours and 4 hours after ROSC in hypertensive perfusion group and control group compared with baseline (hypertensive perfusion group: 15.66±2.24 U, 15.76±0.95 U vs. 8.38±0.70 U, control group: 14.87±1.34 U, 13.85±0.52 U vs. 9.92±0.78 U, all P<0.05), but when the individual value was compared between two groups, no significant difference was found. The Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase and Ca(2+)-ATPase of gastric tissue showed significant increase in the hypertensive perfusion group compared with the control group at 24 hours after ROSC (Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase: 6.07±1.49 μmol×mg(-1)×h(-1) vs. 2.89±1.48 μmol×mg(-1)×h(-1), Ca(2+)-ATPase: 7.67±1.86 μmol×mg(-1)×h(-1) vs. 3.07±1.50 μmol×mg(-1)×h(-1), both P<0.05). There was no significant difference in ATPase activity of intestinal tissue between the two groups. Gastrointestinal mucosa damages and mitochondrial injury in the hypertensive perfusion group were less obviously than in the control group. Gastrointestinal function injury, abnormal energy metabolism, increased serum DAO levels, destruction of intestinal microvilli were found after CPR. Hypertensive perfusion could improve cell energy metabolism, reduce the mucosal injury, and protect the digestive tract from injury due to CPR.

Beneficial effects of interleukin-6 in neonatal mouse models of group B streptococcal disease.

PubMed Central

Mancuso, G; Tomasello, F; Migliardo, M; Delfino, D; Cochran, J; Cook, J A; Teti, G

1994-01-01

Previous studies have shown that tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) plays a pathophysiologic role in sepsis induced in rat pups by group B streptococci (GBS). In this model, TNF-alpha is also partially responsible for the induction of interleukin-6 (IL-6). The present study was undertaken to investigate the role of IL-6 in neonatal BALB/c mice infected with type III GBS. The effect of anti-IL-6 monoclonal antibodies and recombinant IL-6 on lethality and TNF-alpha production was investigated. In mouse pups infected with GBS strain COH1, plasma IL-6 reached levels of 3,067 +/- 955 and 1,923 +/- 891 U/ml when measured at 22 and 48 h, respectively (P < 0.05 compared with uninfected controls). Pretreatment with 25 micrograms of anti-IL-6 antibodies totally prevented the increase in circulating IL-6 bioactivity at both 22 and 48 h after infection (P < 0.05). Treatment with anti-IL-6 also induced a moderate decrease in survival time of mice infected with lethal doses of strains COH1 and COH31, as evidenced by increased lethality (P < 0.05) at 24 to 48 h but not at 96 h. Mouse recombinant IL-6 (12,500 U) given 6 h before challenge with strains COH1 and COH31 consistently increased survival time, as evidenced by decreased (P < 0.05) lethality at 48 to 72 h but not at 96 h. The effects of IL-6 pretreatment were dose dependent, since no protection was observed with doses lower than 12,500 U. In addition, no effects on lethality were noted when IL-6 was given at the time of challenge or at later times. TNF-alpha elevations (P < 0.05 compared with uninfected controls) were measured at 12, 22, and 48 h after challenge with strain COH1 (68 +/- 28, 233 +/- 98, and 98 +/- 34 U, respectively). Pretreatment with IL-6 significantly (P < 0.05) decreased plasma TNF-alpha levels at 12 and 22 h, with 55 and 69% inhibitions, respectively. Anti-IL-6 had an opposite effect, as evidenced by a 145% increase (P < 0.05) in TNF-alpha levels at 48 h after challenge. Collectively, our data are compatible with the hypothesis that IL-6 is involved in negative feedback regulation of plasma TNF-alpha levels in experimental GBS sepsis. In this model, IL-6 pretreatment can increase survival time. Future studies will be needed to investigate the mechanisms underlying this effect. PMID:7927780

Transfusion of plasma, platelets, and red blood cells in a 1:1:1 vs a 1:1:2 ratio and mortality in patients with severe trauma: the PROPPR randomized clinical trial.

PubMed

Holcomb, John B; Tilley, Barbara C; Baraniuk, Sarah; Fox, Erin E; Wade, Charles E; Podbielski, Jeanette M; del Junco, Deborah J; Brasel, Karen J; Bulger, Eileen M; Callcut, Rachael A; Cohen, Mitchell Jay; Cotton, Bryan A; Fabian, Timothy C; Inaba, Kenji; Kerby, Jeffrey D; Muskat, Peter; O'Keeffe, Terence; Rizoli, Sandro; Robinson, Bryce R H; Scalea, Thomas M; Schreiber, Martin A; Stein, Deborah M; Weinberg, Jordan A; Callum, Jeannie L; Hess, John R; Matijevic, Nena; Miller, Christopher N; Pittet, Jean-Francois; Hoyt, David B; Pearson, Gail D; Leroux, Brian; van Belle, Gerald

2015-02-03

Severely injured patients experiencing hemorrhagic shock often require massive transfusion. Earlier transfusion with higher blood product ratios (plasma, platelets, and red blood cells), defined as damage control resuscitation, has been associated with improved outcomes; however, there have been no large multicenter clinical trials. To determine the effectiveness and safety of transfusing patients with severe trauma and major bleeding using plasma, platelets, and red blood cells in a 1:1:1 ratio compared with a 1:1:2 ratio. Pragmatic, phase 3, multisite, randomized clinical trial of 680 severely injured patients who arrived at 1 of 12 level I trauma centers in North America directly from the scene and were predicted to require massive transfusion between August 2012 and December 2013. Blood product ratios of 1:1:1 (338 patients) vs 1:1:2 (342 patients) during active resuscitation in addition to all local standard-of-care interventions (uncontrolled). Primary outcomes were 24-hour and 30-day all-cause mortality. Prespecified ancillary outcomes included time to hemostasis, blood product volumes transfused, complications, incidence of surgical procedures, and functional status. No significant differences were detected in mortality at 24 hours (12.7% in 1:1:1 group vs 17.0% in 1:1:2 group; difference, -4.2% [95% CI, -9.6% to 1.1%]; P = .12) or at 30 days (22.4% vs 26.1%, respectively; difference, -3.7% [95% CI, -10.2% to 2.7%]; P = .26). Exsanguination, which was the predominant cause of death within the first 24 hours, was significantly decreased in the 1:1:1 group (9.2% vs 14.6% in 1:1:2 group; difference, -5.4% [95% CI, -10.4% to -0.5%]; P = .03). More patients in the 1:1:1 group achieved hemostasis than in the 1:1:2 group (86% vs 78%, respectively; P = .006). Despite the 1:1:1 group receiving more plasma (median of 7 U vs 5 U, P < .001) and platelets (12 U vs 6 U, P < .001) and similar amounts of red blood cells (9 U) over the first 24 hours, no differences between the 2 groups were found for the 23 prespecified complications, including acute respiratory distress syndrome, multiple organ failure, venous thromboembolism, sepsis, and transfusion-related complications. Among patients with severe trauma and major bleeding, early administration of plasma, platelets, and red blood cells in a 1:1:1 ratio compared with a 1:1:2 ratio did not result in significant differences in mortality at 24 hours or at 30 days. However, more patients in the 1:1:1 group achieved hemostasis and fewer experienced death due to exsanguination by 24 hours. Even though there was an increased use of plasma and platelets transfused in the 1:1:1 group, no other safety differences were identified between the 2 groups. clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01545232.

Transfusion of Plasma, Platelets, and Red Blood Cells in a 1:1:1 vs a 1:1:2 Ratio and Mortality in Patients With Severe Trauma

PubMed Central

Holcomb, John B.; Tilley, Barbara C.; Baraniuk, Sarah; Fox, Erin E.; Wade, Charles E.; Podbielski, Jeanette M.; del Junco, Deborah J.; Brasel, Karen J.; Bulger, Eileen M.; Callcut, Rachael A.; Cohen, Mitchell Jay; Cotton, Bryan A.; Fabian, Timothy C.; Inaba, Kenji; Kerby, Jeffrey D.; Muskat, Peter; O’Keeffe, Terence; Rizoli, Sandro; Robinson, Bryce R. H.; Scalea, Thomas M.; Schreiber, Martin A.; Stein, Deborah M.; Weinberg, Jordan A.; Callum, Jeannie L.; Hess, John R.; Matijevic, Nena; Miller, Christopher N.; Pittet, Jean-Francois; Hoyt, David B.; Pearson, Gail D.; Leroux, Brian; van Belle, Gerald

2015-01-01

IMPORTANCE Severely injured patients experiencing hemorrhagic shock often require massive transfusion. Earlier transfusion with higher blood product ratios (plasma, platelets, and red blood cells), defined as damage control resuscitation, has been associated with improved outcomes; however, there have been no large multicenter clinical trials. OBJECTIVE To determine the effectiveness and safety of transfusing patients with severe trauma and major bleeding using plasma, platelets, and red blood cells in a 1:1:1 ratio compared with a 1:1:2 ratio. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS Pragmatic, phase 3, multisite, randomized clinical trial of 680 severely injured patients who arrived at 1 of 12 level I trauma centers in North America directly from the scene and were predicted to require massive transfusion between August 2012 and December 2013. INTERVENTIONS Blood product ratios of 1:1:1 (338 patients) vs 1:1:2 (342 patients) during active resuscitation in addition to all local standard-of-care interventions (uncontrolled). MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Primary outcomes were 24-hour and 30-day all-cause mortality. Prespecified ancillary outcomes included time to hemostasis, blood product volumes transfused, complications, incidence of surgical procedures, and functional status. RESULTS No significant differences were detected in mortality at 24 hours (12.7% in 1:1:1 group vs 17.0% in 1:1:2 group; difference, −4.2% [95% CI, −9.6% to 1.1%]; P = .12) or at 30 days (22.4% vs 26.1%, respectively; difference, −3.7% [95% CI, −10.2% to 2.7%]; P = .26). Exsanguination, which was the predominant cause of death within the first 24 hours, was significantly decreased in the 1:1:1 group (9.2% vs 14.6% in 1:1:2 group; difference, −5.4% [95% CI, −10.4% to −0.5%]; P = .03). More patients in the 1:1:1 group achieved hemostasis than in the 1:1:2 group (86% vs 78%, respectively; P = .006). Despite the 1:1:1 group receiving more plasma (median of 7 U vs 5 U, P < .001) and platelets (12 U vs 6 U, P < .001) and similar amounts of red blood cells (9 U) over the first 24 hours, no differences between the 2 groups were found for the 23 prespecified complications, including acute respiratory distress syndrome, multiple organ failure, venous thromboembolism, sepsis, and transfusion-related complications. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Among patients with severe trauma and major bleeding, early administration of plasma, platelets, and red blood cells in a 1:1:1 ratio compared with a 1:1:2 ratio did not result in significant differences in mortality at 24 hours or at 30 days. However, more patients in the 1:1:1 group achieved hemostasis and fewer experienced death due to exsanguination by 24 hours. Even though there was an increased use of plasma and platelets transfused in the 1:1:1 group, no other safety differences were identified between the 2 groups. TRIAL REGISTRATION clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01545232 PMID:25647203

[Extracellular signal-regulated kinase signaling pathway regulates the endothelial differentiation of periodontal ligament stem cells].

PubMed

Zhu, Hong; Luo, Lankun; Wang, Ying; Tan, Jun; Xue, Peng; Wang, Qintao

2016-03-01

To investigate the effect of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling pathway on the endothelial differentiation of periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSC). Human PDLSC was cultured in the medium with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (b-FGF) to induce endothelial differentiation. Endothelial inducing cells was incubated with U0126, a specific p-ERK1/2 inhibitor. PDLSC from one person were randomly divided into four groups: control group, endothelial induced group, endothelial induced+DMSO group and endothelial induced+U0126 group. The protein expression of the p-EKR1/2 was analyzed by Western blotting at 0, 1, 3, 6 and 12 hours during endonthelial induction. The mRNA expressions of CD31, VE-cadherin, and VEGF were detected by quantitative real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) after a 7-day induction. The proportion of CD31(+) to VE-cadherin(+) cells was identified by flow cytometry, and the ability of capillary-like tubes formation was detected by Matrigel assay after a 14-day induction. The measurement data were statistically analyzed. Phosphorylated ERK1/2 protein level in PDLSC was increased to 1.24±0.12 and 1.03±0.24 at 1 h and 3 h respectively, during the endothelial induction (P<0.01). The mRNA expressions of CD31 and VEGF in induced+U0126 group were decreased to 0.09±0.18 and 0.49±0.17, which were both significantly different with those in induced group (P<0.05). The proportion of CD31(+) to VE-cadherin(+) cells of induced+U0126 group were decreased to 5.22±0.85 and 3.56±0.87, which were both significantly different with those in induced group (P<0.05). In Matrigel assay, the branching points, tube number and tube length were decreased to 7.0±2.7, 33.5±6.4, and (15 951.0±758.1) pixels, which were all significantly different with those in induced group (P<0.05). The endothelial differentiation of PDLSC is positively regulated by ERK signaling pathway. Inhibition of ERK1/2 phosphorylation could suppress endothelial differentiation of PDLSC.

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

Yamashita, T.; Fujino, T.; Masaki, N.

The structural parameters of ..cap alpha..- and ..beta..-CdUO/sub 4/ crystals are determined by x-ray powder diffraction technique. ..cap alpha..-CdUO/sub 4/ is rhombohedral and cell parameters are a = 6.233(3) A and ..cap alpha.. = 36.12(5)/sup 0/. ..beta..-CdUO/sub 4/ crystallizes in a C-centered orthorhombic cell with a = 7.023(4), b = 6.849(3), c = 3.514(2) A. The space groups are R3m for ..cap alpha..-CdUO/sub 4/ and Cmmm for ..beta..-CdUO/sub 4/. ..cap alpha..-CdUO/sub 4/: 1U in (000), 1Cd in (1/2 1/2 1/2), 2O(1) in +-(uuu), 2O(2) in +-(vvv); u = 0.113, v= 0.350, Z = 1. ..beta..-CdUO/sub 4/: 2U in (000; 1/2more » 1/2 0), 2Cd in (1/2 0 1/2; 0 1/2 1/2), 40(1) in (0, +-y, 0; 1/2, 1/2 +-y, 0), 4O(2) in (+-x, 0, 1/2; 1/2 +-x, 1/2, 1/2); x = 0.159, y = 0.278, Z = 2. ..beta..-CdUO/sub 4/ contains collinear uranyl UO/sub 2//sup 2 +/ groups with a U-O(1) distance of 1.91 A, located either along or parallel to the c axis whereas the U-O(1) bond length in ..cap alpha..-CdUO/sub 4/ is 1.98 A which is longer than the usual uranyl bond length.« less

CTC Sentinel. Volume 5, Issue 8, August 2012

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-08-01

Cyberterrorism: Capturing a Broad Range of Activities in Cyberspace By Jonalan Brickey 6 Pakistani Taliban Renew Attacks on Punjabi Heartland By Arif Rafiq...Agency, U.S. Northern Command, and U.S. Army Central Command. Pakistani Taliban Renew Attacks on Punjabi Heartland By Arif Rafiq after an extended...Lashkar-i-Tayyiba as well as the various Punjabi Taliban groups. 25 The Punjab police have made some important arrests in the past year. In

Prognostic index for chronic- and smoldering-type adult T-cell leukemia-lymphoma.

PubMed

Katsuya, Hiroo; Shimokawa, Mototsugu; Ishitsuka, Kenji; Kawai, Kazuhiro; Amano, Masahiro; Utsunomiya, Atae; Hino, Ryosuke; Hanada, Shuichi; Jo, Tatsuro; Tsukasaki, Kunihiro; Moriuchi, Yukiyoshi; Sueoka, Eisaburo; Yoshida, Shinichiro; Suzushima, Hitoshi; Miyahara, Masaharu; Yamashita, Kiyoshi; Eto, Tetsuya; Suzumiya, Junji; Tamura, Kazuo

2017-07-06

Adult T-cell leukemia-lymphoma (ATL) has been divided into 4 clinical subtypes: acute, lymphoma, chronic, and smoldering. The aim of this study is to develop a novel prognostic index (PI) for chronic and smoldering ATL. We conducted a nationwide retrospective survey on ATL patients, and 248 fully eligible individuals were used in this analysis. In the univariate analysis, sex, performance status, log 10 (soluble interleukin-2 receptor [sIL-2R]), neutrophils count, and lymphadenopathy showed values of P < .05 in training samples. A multivariate analysis was performed on these factors, and only log 10 (sIL-2R) was identified as an independent prognostic factor in training samples. Using a regression coefficient of this variable, a prognostic model was formulated to identify different levels of risk: indolent ATL-PI (iATL-PI) = 1.51 × log 10 (sIL-2R [U/mL]). The values calculated by iATL-PI were divided into 3 groups using a quartile point. In the validation sample, median survival times (MSTs) were 1.6 years, 5.5 years, and not reached for patients in the high-, intermediate-, and low-risk groups, respectively ( P < .0001). To make the scoring system clinically practicable, we simplified iATL-PI according to trichotomizing sIL-2R at 1000 and 6000 U/mL, using a quartile point. Patients with more than 6000 U/mL sIL-2R were categorized into the high-risk group, less than and equal to 1000 U/mL into the low-risk group, and the others into the intermediate-risk group, and MSTs were 1.6 years, not reached, and 5.5 years, respectively ( P < .0001). iATL-PI has potential as a novel tool for a risk-adapted therapeutic approach. © 2017 by The American Society of Hematology.

Effect of carbamezapine and valproic acid on bone mineral density, IGF-I and IGFBP-3.

PubMed

Kumandas, Sefer; Koklu, Esad; Gümüs, Hakan; Koklu, Selmin; Kurtoglu, Selim; Karakukcu, Musa; Keskin, Mehmet

2006-04-01

To examine the effect of carbamezapine and valproate on bone mineral density (BMD), IGF-I and IGFBP-3 levels in children. The effects of at least 2 years valproic acid and carbamazepine therapy on BMD were evaluated in a cross-sectional and retrospective study. All children were ambulatory, prepubertal, and had normal activity and nutritionally adequate diets. Ambulatory epileptic patients were divided into two groups. Thirty-three patients (group 1; 17 boys, 16 girls; mean age: 8.8 +/- 2.0 years) were treated with valproic acid and 33 patients were treated with carbamazepine (group 2; 20 boys, 13 girls; mean age: 9.7 +/- 1.6 years). The control group consisted of 22 healthy children (13 boys, 9 girls; mean age: 8.9 +/- 2.3 years), who were age- and sex-matched with the patient groups. Children with metabolic bone disease, growth and neurological impairment, signs of malnutrition, or any chronic disease were excluded from the study. BMD values at lumbar spine in both the carbamazepine (-1.69 +/- 0.85 mean L1-4 BMD z-scores, mean 35.5 +/- 12.8 months treatment, and 19,478.6 +/- 6,301.3 mg/kg cumulative dose) and valproic acid (-1.28 +/- 0.80 mean L1-4 BMD z-scores, mean 33.7 +/- 15.0 months treatment, and 22,852.4 +/- 12,477.4 mg/kg cumulative dose) groups were significantly lower than that of the control group (-0.23 +/- 0.87 mean L1-4 BMD z-score). Serum ALP and PTH levels were significantly higher in the carbamazepine-treated group (65.4 +/- 21.1 pg/ml, 767 +/- 267 U/l, respectively) than those of the valproic acid-treated (39.1 +/- 12.8 pg/ml, 561 +/- 166 U/l, respectively) and control groups (36.3 +/- 4.9 pg/ml, 487 +/- 82 U/l, respectively). Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D of the carbamazepine-treated group (9.8 +/- 3.2 microg/l) was significantly lower than the other groups (15.1 +/- 3.5, 16.6 +/- 4.7 microg/l, respectively). There were eight and 13 patients with plasma intact PTH above reference values in groups 1 and 2, respectively. Valproic acid and carbamazepine therapy results in a hyperparathyroid state and altered vitamin D metabolism, respectively. BMD values at lumbar spine were significantly reduced in both carbamezapine and valproic acid treated groups. Valproic acid and carbamazepine therapy do not change IGF-I and IGFBP-3 levels. Altering the hepatic conversion of vitamin D may be the mechanism of carbamazepine-associated reduction in BMD, but the mechanism of decreased BMD in valproate therapy remains unclear.

Comparison of Saccharina japonica-Undaria pinnatifida Mixture and Minoxidil on Hair Growth Promoting Effect in Mice.

PubMed

Park, Ki Soo; Park, Dae Hwan

2016-11-01

Algae have traditionally been used for promotion of hair growth. Use of hair regrowth drugs, such as minoxidil, is limited due to side effects. The aim of this study was to examine a mixture of Saccharina japonica and Undaria pinnatifida (L-U mixture) on hair growth and to compare the promoting effect of hair growth by a 3% minoxidil and a L-U mixture. To evaluate the hair growth-promoting activity, saline, 50% ethanol, 3% minoxidil, and the L-U mixture were applied 2 times a day for a total of 14 days on the dorsal skin of C57BL/6 mice after depilation. Analysis was determined by using a high-resolution hair analysis system, real-time polymerase chain reaction, and H&E staining. On day 14, the hair growth effect of the L-U mixture was the same as that of the 3% minoxidil treatment. The L-U mixture significantly (P<0.05) stimulated hair growth-promoting genes, as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and insulin-like growth factor -1. Increase of VEGF was observed in the L-U mixture group compared with minoxidil and the negative control. In contrast, the L-U mixture suppressed the expression of transforming growth factor-β1, which is the hair loss-related gene. In histological examination in the L-U mixture and minoxidil groups, the induction of an anagen stage of hair follicles was faster than that of control groups. This study provides evidence that the L-U mixture can promote hair growth in mice, similar to the effect from minoxidil, and suggests that there is potential application for hair loss treatments.

North Qinling Terrain as a provenance of Kuanping Group: LA-ICP-MS U-Pb Geochronology of detrital zircons

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, B.; Li, S.; Zhai, M.; Wu, J.; Jia, X.

2017-12-01

Though some Neoproterozoic S-type granites in the North Qinling Terrain (NQT), China indicate the collision between the NQT and an unknown block, there are still controversial. The LA-ICP-MS U-Pb ages of detrital zircons of meta-sandstones from the Kuanping Group in Luonan area, NQT, provide sedimentology evidence to prove that the NQT and an unknown block from Rodinia supercontinent have been collided during Meso-Neoproterozoic. The U-Pb ages of detrital zircons from the Kuanping Group show that the main age peaks are at 2.58 Ga, 2.46 Ga, 2.0 Ga, 1.78 Ga, 1.6 Ga, 1.45 Ga and 1.27 Ga. The youngest age of 880 Ma indicates that the sedimentary age of the Kuanping Group is less than 880 Ma. The provenances, which provide 1.45 - 0.88 Ga sediments may come from NQT, which magmatic and metamorphic rocks during this period outcropped. Whereas provenances providing 2.6- 1.6 Ga sediments may come from an unknown block. This indicates that the Kuangping Group received both NQT and the unknown block materials. Therefore, the NQT and the unknown block may have collided before 880 Ma. 889 - 848 Ma A-type granites distributing the NQT was considered forming under a post-collisional tectonics. According the youngest detrital zircon ages of 880 Ma, it is inferred that the Kuanping Basin may also form in the same tectonic environments. Neoproterozoic Kuanping basin and 889 - 848 Ma A-type granites may be a result which NQT broken off a block of Rodinia supercontinent. Acknowledgments: This research is supported by National Key Research and Development Plan of China (2016YFC0601002), Special Fund for Basic Scientific Research of Central Colleges, Chang'an University (310827172201, 0009-2014G1271067) and National Nature Science Foundation of China (41402042).

Effectiveness and adverse events of tolvaptan in octogenarians with heart failure. Interim analyses of Samsca Post-Marketing Surveillance In Heart faiLurE (SMILE study).

PubMed

Kinugawa, Koichiro; Inomata, Takayuki; Sato, Naoki; Yasuda, Moriyoshi; Shimakawa, Toshiyuki; Bando, Kosuke; Mizuguchi, Kazuki

2015-01-01

The vasopressin receptor 2 (V2) receptor antagonist tolvaptan is an aquaretic agent that has been found to improve symptoms in patients with congestive heart failure. In this study (SMILE study), we administered tolvaptan to patients aged ≥ 80 years with heart failure accompanied by congestive symptoms and compared its effectiveness and safety profiles in this group with those in patients < 80 years (U-80). The results showed that the effectiveness of tolvaptan in the aged patients was similar to that in U-80 patients. In the safety profile, the incidence rate of thirst was lower in the aged patients than that in U-80 patients (9.6% versus 11.6%, P = 0.0023). Furthermore, the incidence of hypernatremia, defined as ≥ 150 mEq/L in aged patients, was comparable with that in U-80 patients (2.9% versus 3.6%, respectively, P = 0.3657). Based on these findings, tolvaptan has similar effectiveness and safety profiles in aged patients compared with U-80 patients. In addition, we found that a higher starting dose of tolvaptan was markedly associated with the occurrence of hypernatremia exclusively in the aged population; therefore, we recommend that tolvaptan should be started at lower doses in aged patients.

Footnote in History: Sixth Army Group Operations in the Second World War and Lessons for Contemporary Planners

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-05-26

Footnote in History: Sixth Army Group Operations in the Second World War and Lessons for Contemporary Planners A Monograph...Lessons for Contemporary Planners 5a. CONTRACT NUMBER 5b. GRANT NUMBER 5c. PROGRAM ELEMENT NUMBER 6. AUTHOR(S) Rebecca E. Beard, MAJ, U.S...History: Sixth Army Group Operations in the Second World War and Lessons for Contemporary Planners Approved by: , Monograph Director

Reduction of the DNA damages, Hepatoprotective Effect and Antioxidant Potential of the Coconut Water, ascorbic and Caffeic Acids in Oxidative Stress Mediated by Ethanol.

PubMed

Bispo, Vanderson S; Dantas, Lucas S; Chaves, Adriano B; Pinto, Isabella F D; Silva, Railmara P DA; Otsuka, Felipe A M; Santos, Rodrigo B; Santos, Aline C; Trindade, Danielle J; Matos, Humberto R

2017-01-01

Hepatic disorders such as steatosis and alcoholic steatohepatitis are common diseases that affect thousands of people around the globe. This study aims to identify the main phenol compounds using a new HPLC-ESI+-MS/MS method, to evaluate some oxidative stress parameters and the hepatoprotective action of green dwarf coconut water, caffeic and ascorbic acids on the liver and serum of rats treated with ethanol. The results showed five polyphenols in the lyophilized coconut water spiked with standards: chlorogenic acid (0.18 µM), caffeic acid (1.1 µM), methyl caffeate (0.03 µM), quercetin (0.08 µM) and ferulic acid (0.02 µM) isomers. In the animals, the activity of the serum γ-glutamyltranspeptidase (γ-GT) was reduced to 1.8 I.U/L in the coconut water group, 3.6 I.U/L in the ascorbic acid group and 2.9 I.U/L in the caffeic acid groups, when compared with the ethanol group (5.1 I.U/L, p<0.05). Still in liver, the DNA analysis demonstrated a decrease of oxidized bases compared to ethanol group of 36.2% and 48.0% for pretreated and post treated coconut water group respectively, 42.5% for the caffeic acid group, and 34.5% for the ascorbic acid group. The ascorbic acid was efficient in inhibiting the thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) in the liver by 16.5% in comparison with the ethanol group. These data indicate that the green dwarf coconut water, caffeic and ascorbic acids have antioxidant, hepatoprotective and reduced DNA damage properties, thus decreasing the oxidative stress induced by ethanol metabolism.

Oxidative stress and nitrosative stress are involved in different stages of proteolytic pulmonary emphysema.

PubMed

Lanzetti, Manuella; da Costa, Cristiane Aguiar; Nesi, Renata Tiscoski; Barroso, Marina Valente; Martins, Vanessa; Victoni, Tatiana; Lagente, Vincent; Pires, Karla Maria Pereira; e Silva, Patrícia Machado Rodrigues; Resende, Angela Castro; Porto, Luis Cristóvão; Benjamim, Cláudia Farias; Valença, Samuel Santos

2012-12-01

Our aim was to investigate the role of oxidative stress in elastase-induced pulmonary emphysema. C57BL/6 mice were subjected to pancreatic porcine elastase (PPE) instillation (0.05 or 0.5 U per mouse, i.t.) to induce pulmonary emphysema. Lungs were collected on days 7, 14, and 21 after PPE instillation. The control group was sham injected. Also, mice treated with 1% aminoguanidine (AMG) and inducible NO synthase (iNOS) knockout mice received 0.5 U PPE (i.t.), and lungs were analyzed 21 days after. We performed bronchoalveolar lavage, biochemical analyses of oxidative stress, and lung stereology and morphometry assays. Emphysema was observed histologically at 21 days after 0.5 U PPE treatment; tissues from these mice exhibited increased alveolar linear intercept and air-space volume density in comparison with the control group. TNF-α was elevated at 7 and 14 days after 0.5 U PPE treatment, concomitant with a reduction in the IL-10 levels at the same time points. Myeloperoxidase was elevated in all groups treated with 0.5 U PPE. Oxidative stress was observed during early stages of emphysema, with increased nitrite levels and malondialdehyde and superoxide dismutase activity at 7 days after 0.5 U PPE treatment. Glutathione peroxidase activity was increased in all groups treated with 0.5 U PPE. The emphysema was attenuated when iNOS was inhibited using 1% AMG and in iNOS knockout mice. Furthermore, proteolytic stimulation by PPE enhanced the expression of nitrotyrosine and iNOS, whereas the PPE+AMG group showed low expression of iNOS and nitrotyrosine. PPE stimulus also induced endothelial (e) NOS expression, whereas AMG reduced eNOS. Our results suggest that the oxidative and nitrosative stress pathways are triggered by nitric oxide production via iNOS expression in pulmonary emphysema. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Nouvelle serie d'oxydes derives de la structure de α-U 3U 8: MIIUMo 4O 16

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, M. R.; Jaulmes, S.

1987-04-01

A new family of isotypical oxides MIIUMo 4O 16 ( MII = Mg,Mn,Cd,Ca,Hg,Sr,Pb) is identified. The structure of the compound with Ca was determined by X-ray diffraction. It is triclinic, space group P overline1 with a = 13.239(5) Å, b = 6.651(2) Å, c = 8.236(3) Å, α = 90°00(4), β = 90°38(4), γ = 120°16(3), Z = 2. The final index and the weighted Rw index are 0.049 and 0.040, respectively. The cell is related to the orthorhombic one of α-U 3O 8: a = 2 a0, b = -( a0 + b0)/2, c = 2 c0. The structure, reminiscent of that of α-U 3O 8, consists of chains of [Ca,U]O 7 pentagonal bipyramids and MoO 6 octahedra, running parallel to the c axis. The UO distances along the UOCaO chains are shortened to 1.77(1) Å. The uranyl ion was characterized by its IR spectrum.

Use of Energy-Efficient Technologies: U.S. Marine Corps Perceptions to Adoption

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-12-01

Hierarchy ..............................18 E. COMMONALITIES IN THEORIES ..........................................................20 F. WATKINS ...111 ix LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1. Influence Campaigns (from Watkins , 2003...Figure 6. Research Framework (after Watkins , 2003) ....................................................22 Figure 7. Focus Group Participant Demographic

38 CFR 21.382 - Training and staff development for personnel providing assistance under Chapter 31.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... disability; (4) Counseling theory and techniques; (5) Personal and vocational adjustment; (6) Occupational... activities on a group and individual basis. (Authority: 38 U.S.C. 3118(b)) (c) Interagency coordination. VA...

A Comparison of Japan and U.K. SF-6D Health-State Valuations Using a Non-Parametric Bayesian Method.

PubMed

Kharroubi, Samer A

2015-08-01

There is interest in the extent to which valuations of health may differ between different countries and cultures, but few studies have compared preference values of health states obtained in different countries. We sought to estimate and compare two directly elicited valuations for SF-6D health states between the Japan and U.K. general adult populations using Bayesian methods. We analysed data from two SF-6D valuation studies where, using similar standard gamble protocols, values for 241 and 249 states were elicited from representative samples of the Japan and U.K. general adult populations, respectively. We estimate a function applicable across both countries that explicitly accounts for the differences between them, and is estimated using data from both countries. The results suggest that differences in SF-6D health-state valuations between the Japan and U.K. general populations are potentially important. The magnitude of these country-specific differences in health-state valuation depended, however, in a complex way on the levels of individual dimensions. The new Bayesian non-parametric method is a powerful approach for analysing data from multiple nationalities or ethnic groups, to understand the differences between them and potentially to estimate the underlying utility functions more efficiently.

Evaluation of CA125 and NT-proBNP values in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation

PubMed Central

Ayhan, Hüseyin; Kasapkara, Hacı Ahmet; Durmaz, Tahir; Keleş, Telat; Sarı, Cenk; Baştuğ, Serdal; Erdoğan, Kemal Eşref; Bayram, Nihal Akar; Bilen, Emine; Akçay, Murat; Bozkurt, Engin

2015-01-01

Background Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is a minimally invasive, emerging therapy in surgically high risk, or inoperable patients. Parameters used for risk classification have some deficiencies in the selection of patients. The objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of TAVI on carbohydrate antigen 125 (CA125) and N-Terminal pro Brain-type Natriuretic Peptide (NT-proBNP) as biomarkers that have been used frequently in recent years, and also the relationship of these biomarkers to prognosis. Methods & Results Transcatheter aortic valve implantation was practiced on 31 patients in this study. Then, CA125 and NT-proBNP levels studied in patients prior to and after the TAVI were evaluated. The patients were also grouped in accordance with their left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and CA125 levels (LVEF ≥ 40% and < 40%; CA125 ≤ 35 U/L and > 35 U/L). The TAVI operation was successfully performed in all patients. There was no in-hospital mortality and substantial improvement in functional capacity was detected at follow ups. In addition, a statistically significant decrease was detected in post-TAVI CA125 and NT-proBNP levels of all patients (CA125 83.8 ± 18.1 U/L vs. 64.3 ± 14.2 U/L, P = 0.008; NT-proBNP: 4633.6 ± 627.6 pg/mL vs. 2866.3 ± 536.8 pg/mL, P < 0.001). In groups divided according to the CA125 levels, there was also statistically significant post-TAVI decline in CA125 levels. Within CA125 > 35 U/L and LVEF < 40% groups, the permanent need for a pacemaker was required in one (3.2%) patient and mortality was observed in two (6.4%) patients after TAVI at follow up. Conclusions The results show that TAVI can be performed effectively and reliably in patients with high baseline levels of CA125 and NT-proBNP. These biomarkers are reduced substantially with TAVI, while high biomarker levels are associated with undesired events, and certainly, these biomarkers can be used for risk classifications in patient selection for TAVI. PMID:25870611

Titration of basal insulin or immediate addition of rapid acting insulin in patients not at target using basal insulin supported oral antidiabetic treatment - A prospective observational study in 2202 patients.

PubMed

Siegmund, Thorsten; Pfohl, Martin; Forst, Thomas; Pscherer, Stefan; Bramlage, Peter; Foersch, Johannes; Borck, Anja; Seufert, Jochen

Optimal treatment intensification strategies in patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) receiving basal insulin supported oral antidiabetic therapy (BOT) remain controversial. The objective of the present study was to compare outcomes of BOT-intensification by either the uptitration of long-acting insulin glargine or by the immediate addition of a rapid acting insulin analogue (RAIA). This was a prospective, observational, 24-week study in T2DM patients with BOT using insulin glargine and baseline glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) between 7.0 and 8.5%. Patients were stratified by their physicians to one of the following treatment intensification strategies: Basal insulin titration to target with discretionary subsequent addition of RAIA at weeks 12 or 24 (GLAR), or immediate addition of RAIA at baseline (GLARplus). A total of 3266 patients were prescreened of whom 2202 fulfilled the selection criteria. Of these, 1684 patients were documented in the GLAR group and 518 in the GLARplus group. In the GLAR group, in 91 (5.5%) and 21 patients (1.3%) RAIA was added at weeks 12 and 24, respectively. The groups displayed similar baseline characteristics; except, mean diabetes duration was slightly shorter in the GLAR group (8.7 vs. 9.4 years). During the study, insulin glargine dose was increased from 18.7 to 26.4U (plus 7.7U) in GLAR and from 24.9 to 27.3U (plus 2.4U) in GLARplus patients. Mean RAIA dose was 9.6±4.7U at the final visit. After 24 weeks, HbA1c was reduced by 0.8 and 0.9% in the GLAR and GLARplus groups, respectively (both p<0.001). An HbA1c of ≤7.0% was achieved in 49.2% of GLAR and 48.5% of GLARplus patients. In both groups, we observed improvements in cardiovascular risk factors such as lipids and blood pressure. The rates of symptomatic (1.6 vs. 1.7%) and severe (0.18 vs. 0.19%) hypoglycemic episodes were low and comparable in both groups. These findings provide evidence that treatment intensification in patients with type 2 diabetes not at glycemic target on BOT with insulin glargine is equally safe and effective using either long-acting insulin titration alone or the addition of a rapid-acting insulin analogue. Copyright © 2016 Diabetes India. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Duration of sustained phonation in kindergarten children.

PubMed

Harden, J R; Looney, N A

1984-03-01

Maximum sustained phonations of the vowels [a], [u] and [i] were obtained from 160 kindergarten children with a mean age of approximately 6.2 years. Subjects were grouped by sex and by the presence or absence of a voice disorder. Stop watch measurements of each subject's maximum phonations were compared with graphic level recorder measurements of those phonations . The results indicated that (1) the factor of sex had no significant effect on maximum phonation times; (2) the factor of voice group (non-voice-disordered/voice-disordered) did result in a significant effect (P less than 0.01) with the voice-disordered group achieving shorter phonations than the non-voice-disordered group; (3) the phonation times obtained from the two measurement procedures correlate significantly (P less than 0.05). Results also suggest that the vowel effect on maximum phonation time was significant (P less than 0.05) for both groups. The vowel [i] was phonated significantly longer than either [a] or [u] for males and females in both groups.

Advanced Polymers Containing the Phenyltrifluoroethylidene Connecting Group

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Alstron, William B.; Sivko, Gloria S.

2006-01-01

A new, lower cost fluorinated dianhydride based on the phenyltrifluoroethylidene (3F) connecting linkage was invented by the principal author in the early 1980's. New 3F condensation and addition cured polyimides were synthesized with the newly discovered 3F dianhydride and the previously known 3F diamine. As controls, polyimides based on the somewhat analogous higher cost hexafluoroisopropylidene (6F) linkage were also prepared. The short term thermal oxidative stability (TOS), determined by thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), and the glass transition temperatures (Tg) of 3F dianhydride polyimides were found to be similar to 6F dianhydride polyimides, but the Tg was slightly higher for 3F diamine polyimides than 6F diamine polyimides. Unfortunately, in real time testing, long term TOS of 3F polymers was clearly inferior to 6F polymers. This was due to a 3 to 5 fold greater rate of loss of trifluoromethyl group from 3F versus 6F linkages. However, at shorter times or lower temperatures, 3F TOS was almost comparable to 6F TOS. The wide scope of the 3F technology was also demonstrated to have distinct unique advantages over 6F technology through the use of the 3F pendant phenyl ring as a synthetic site to introduce other functional groups. These groups have been used for the control or modification of polymer properties; an advantage lacking within 6F technology. The synthetic ease by which 3F can be introduced into various types of monomers has lead to the explosion of advanced 3F polyimides and other high performance advanced 3F polymers in the prior decade of 3F polymer literature as cited herein; covering polyimides, substituted polyimides, at least ten types of nonpolyimide 3F polymer modifications, and also the government's nine 3F U.S. patents and corporations' nine 3F U.S. patents.

[Antibody persistence following on different vaccination strategies of domestic measles, mumps and rubella combined attenuated live vaccine: a 3-year follow-up study].

PubMed

He, H Q; Li, Q; Yan, R; Zhou, Y; Tang, X W; Deng, X; Xie, S Y; Chen, Z P

2017-04-06

Objective: To assess the 3-year antibody persistence after vaccination of domestic measles, mumps and rubella combined attenuated live vaccine (MMR) with different program. Methods: Children from three different vaccination strategies (Group 8 m MR: 8 months and 18 months vaccinated with measles-rubella combined attenuated live vaccine and domestic MMR,respectively; Group 8 m MMR: 8 months and 18 months both vaccinated with domestic MMR; Group 12 m MMR: 12 months and 22 months both vaccinated with domestic MMR ) were followed up in Zhejiang province in July 2015. There were 170 participants in Group 8 m MR, 171 participants in Group 8 m MMR and 173 participants in Group 12 m MMR selected by simple random sampling method .Blood samples (venous blood 2-3 ml) were collected 1 month after the first dose vaccination of MMR (only in Group 8 m MMR and Group 12 m MMR) and 3 years (36-38 months) after the last dose vaccination of MMR and tested for antibody IgG against Measles, Mumps and Rubella using ELISA. Seropostive rate and Geometric mean concentration (GMC) were calculated and compared among different groups by Chi-square test or Fisher exact test and Kruskal-Wallis H test. Results: A total of 514 participants (8 m MR: 170; 8 m MMR:171; 12 m MMR:173) were enrolled. The overall seropositivity rate of measles, mumps and rubella was 98.1% (504), 93.4% (480) and 88.1% (453), respectively, with corresponding GMC was 1 012.33 mU/ml, 502.87 U/ml and 50.53 U/ml respectively. There was no significant difference of seropositivity rate for measles among three groups (all groups were>97%). The highest seropositivity rate for mumps was found in the Group 12 m MMR with the rate of 98.8% (171/173), followed by Group 8 m MMR and Group 8 m MR with 93.0% (159/171) and 88.2%(150/170) respectively (Fisher exact test, P< 0.001). The highest seropositivity rate for rubella was also found in the Group 12 m MMR with the rate of 94.8% (164/173), followed by Group 8 m MMR and Group 8 m MR with 86.6%(148/171) and 82.9%(141/170) respectively (Fisher exact test, P= 0.002). The highest GMC of antibody against measles, mumps and rubella were all found in Group 12 m MMR, with 1 217.30 (1 119.35-1 323.82) mU/ml, 717.07 (643.83-798.65) U/ml and 62.54(56.21-69.58) U/ml respectively. The lowest GMC of antibody against measles and mumps were both in Group 12 m MR with 812.01 (734.52-897.67) mU/ml and 363.28 (305.42-432.11) U/ml respectively. The lowest GMC of antibody against rubella was in Group 8 m MMR with 44.10 (39.08-49.76) U/ml. These differences of GMCs among three groups were all reach significant means ( P< 0.05). Conclusion: High level seropostive rates and GMCs were exist against measles and rubella after 3-year vaccination of domestic MMR among different program. Higher antibody level against mumps were found in those children with two doses vaccination of MMR.

Substrate-assisted mechanism of RNP disruption by the spliceosomal Brr2 RNA helicase

PubMed Central

Theuser, Matthias; Höbartner, Claudia; Wahl, Markus C.; Santos, Karine F.

2016-01-01

The Brr2 RNA helicase disrupts the U4/U6 di-small nuclear RNA–protein complex (di-snRNP) during spliceosome activation via ATP-driven translocation on the U4 snRNA strand. However, it is unclear how bound proteins influence U4/U6 unwinding, which regions of the U4/U6 duplex the helicase actively unwinds, and whether U4/U6 components are released as individual molecules or as subcomplexes. Here, we set up a recombinant Brr2-mediated U4/U6 di-snRNP disruption system, showing that sequential addition of the U4/U6 proteins small nuclear ribonucleoprotein-associated protein 1 (Snu13), pre-mRNA processing factor 31 (Prp31), and Prp3 to U4/U6 di-snRNA leads to a stepwise decrease of Brr2-mediated U4/U6 unwinding, but that unwinding is largely restored by a Brr2 cofactor, the C-terminal Jab1/MPN domain of the Prp8 protein. Brr2-mediated U4/U6 unwinding was strongly inhibited by mutations in U4/U6 di-snRNAs that diminish the ability of U6 snRNA to adopt an alternative conformation but leave the number and kind of U4/U6 base pairs unchanged. Irrespective of the presence of the cofactor, the helicase segregated a Prp3-Prp31-Snu13-U4/U6 RNP into an intact Prp31-Snu13-U4 snRNA particle, free Prp3, and free U6 snRNA. Together, these observations suggest that Brr2 translocates only a limited distance on the U4 snRNA strand and does not actively release RNA-bound proteins. Unwinding is then completed by the partially displaced U6 snRNA adopting an alternative conformation, which leads to dismantling of the Prp3-binding site on U4/U6 di-snRNA but leaves the Prp31- and Snu13-binding sites on U4 snRNA unaffected. In this fashion, Brr2 can activate the spliceosome by stripping U6 snRNA of all precatalytic binding partners, while minimizing logistic requirements for U4/U6 di-snRNP reassembly after splicing. PMID:27354531

[Status of vitamin A, vitamin B2, iron and an-oxidantive activity in anemic pregnant women in China].

PubMed

Yang, Fang; Ma, Ai-Guo; Zhang, Xiu-Zhen; Jiang, Dian-Chen

2006-05-01

To investigate the status of vitamin A(VA), vitamin B2 (VB2), iron and anoxidative function in anemic and non-anemic pregnant women. 426 anemic and 36 non-anemic pregnant women were included in the study. The survey of 24-hour's diet recall of pregnant women was made to evaluate intake of iron, VB2, folic acid, etc by the nutrition software provided by Beijing 301 hospital, iron and VA were measured by Radioimmunoassay (RIA) and by high-pressure liquid chromatography. VB2 status was detected using the assay for erythrocyte glutathione reductase (Egr; EC 1.6.4.2) activity. SOD and GSH-Px activities and MDA were determined using commercial kits. Peripheral blood erythrocyte membrane fluidity was detected by using 1,6-diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene as a probe, the degree of fluorescence polarization (P) at 25 degrees C of disrupted cells plasma membranes were compared for a variety of systems. Median intakes of protein and vitamin C met the current Chinese RNIs for pregnancy, whereas intakes of(VA) and VB2 were well below the recommendations. Intake of iron were above 90%, but the main sources of iron are vegetables. Plasma VA (1.25 micromol/L) and iron (20.57 microg/L) were lower, BGRAC (1.79) was higher than that in non-anemia group (VA 1.57 micromol/L, SF 33.16 microg/L, BGRAC 1.52). The level of plasma SOD (77.1U/ml) and the activity of GSH-Px (61.9U) were lower than those in non-anemia group (92.2U/ml, 71.6U, P < 0.05), while MDA (4.58 nmol/ml) level and erythrocyte membrane (P = 0.2622, eta = 2.7465) fluidity were higher than those non-anemia group(MDA = 3.78 nmol/ ml, P = 0.2360, eta = 2.3658). Plasam VA, VB2 and iron, antioxidantcapacity and erythrocyte membrane fluidity were decreased in the anemic pregnant women.

Inpatient Burden of Childhood Functional GI Disorders in the United States: An Analysis of National Trends in the U.S. from 1997 to 2009

PubMed Central

Park, Richard; Mikami, Sage; LeClair, Jack; Bollom, Andrea; Lembo, Cara; Sethi, Saurabh; Lembo, Anthony; Jones, Mike; Cheng, Vivian; Friedlander, Elizabeth; Nurko, Samuel

2017-01-01

BACKGROUND Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (FGIDs) are among the most common outpatient diagnoses in pediatric primary care and gastroenterology. There is limited data on the inpatient burden of childhood FGIDs in the U.S. The aim of this study was to evaluate the inpatient admission rate, length of stay, and associated costs related to FGIDs from 1997–2009. METHODS We analyzed the Kids’ Inpatient Sample Database (KID) for all subjects in which constipation (ICD-9 codes: 564.0–564.09), abdominal pain (ICD-9 codes: 789.0–789.09), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) (ICD-9 code: 564.1), abdominal migraine (ICD-9 code:346.80 and 346.81)dyspepsia (ICD-9 code: 536.8) or fecal incontinence (ICD-codes: 787.6–787.63) was the primary discharge diagnosis from 1997–2009. The KID is the largest publicly available all-payer inpatient database in the U.S., containing data from 2–3 million pediatric hospital stays yearly. KEY RESULTS From 1997–2009, the number of discharges with a FGID primary diagnosis increased slightly from 6,348,537 to 6,393,803. The total mean cost per discharge increased significantly from $6115 to $18,058 despite the length of stay remaining relatively stable. Constipation and abdominal pain were the most common FGID discharge diagnoses. Abdominal pain and abdominal migraine discharges were most frequent in the 10–14 year age group. Constipation and fecal incontinence discharges were most frequent in the 5–9 year age group. IBS discharge was most common for the 15–17 year age group. CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES Hospitalizations and associated costs in childhood FGIDs have increased in number and cost in the U.S. from 1997–2009. Further studies to determine optimal methods to avoid unnecessary hospitalizations and potentially harmful diagnostic testing are indicated. PMID:25809794

U Pb and Lu Hf isotope record of detrital zircon grains from the Limpopo Belt Evidence for crustal recycling at the Hadean to early-Archean transition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zeh, Armin; Gerdes, Axel; Klemd, Reiner; Barton, J. M., Jr.

2008-11-01

Detrital zircon grains from Beit Bridge Group quartzite from the Central Zone of the Limpopo Belt near Musina yield mostly ages of 3.35-3.15 Ga, minor 3.15-2.51 Ga components, and numerous older grains grouped at approximately 3.4, 3.5 and 3.6 Ga. Two grains yielded concordant Late Hadean U-Pb ages of 3881 ± 11 Ma and 3909 ± 26 Ma, which are the oldest zircon grains so far found in Africa. The combined U-Pb and Lu-Hf datasets and field relationships provide evidence that the sedimentary protolith of the Beit Bridge Group quartzite was deposited after the emplacement of the Sand River Gneisses (3.35-3.15 Ga), but prior to the Neoarchean magmatic-metamorphic events at 2.65-2.60 Ga. The finding of abundant magmatic zircon detritus with concordant U-Pb ages of 3.35-3.15 Ga, and 176Hf/ 177Hf of 0.28066 ± 0.00004 indicate that the Sand River Gneiss-type rocks were a predominant source. In contrast, detrital zircon grains older than approximately 3.35 Ga were derived from the hinterland of the Limpopo Belt; either from a so far unknown crustal source in southern Africa, possibly from the Zimbabwe Craton and/or a source, which was similar but not necessarily identical to the one that supplied the Hadean zircons to Jack Hills, Western Australia. The Beit Bridge Group zircon population at >3.35 Ga shows a general ɛHf t increase with decreasing age from ɛHf 3.9Ga = -6.3 to ɛHf 3.3-3.1Ga = -0.2, indicating that Hadean crust older than 4.0 Ga ( TDM = 4.45-4.36 Ga) was rejuvenated during magmatic events between >3.9 and 3.1 Ga, due to a successive mixing of crustal rocks with mantle derived magmas. The existence of a depleted mantle reservoir in the Limpopo's hinterland is reflected by the ˜3.6 Ga zircon population, which shows ɛHf 3.6Ga between -4.6 and +3.2. In a global context, our data suggest that a long-lived, mafic Hadean protocrust with some tonalite-trondhjemite-granodiorite constituents was destroyed and partly recycled at the Hadean/Archean transition, perhaps due to the onset of modern-style plate tectonics.

[Spermatogenesis of pulsatile gonadotropin-releasing hormone infusion versus gonadotropin therapy in male idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism].

PubMed

Huang, Bingkun; Mao, Jiangfeng; Xu, Hongli; Wang, Xi; Liu, Zhaoxiang; Nie, Min; Wu, Xueyan

2015-05-26

To compare the efficacies of pulsatile gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) versus human chorionic gonadotropin/human menopausal gonadotropin (HCG/HMG) for spermatogenesis in male idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH). For this retrospective study, a total of 92 male IHH outpatients from May 2010 to October 2014 were recruited and categorized into GnRH (n = 40) and HCG/HMG (n = 52) groups. Each subject selected one specific therapy voluntarily. The gonadotropin levels were measured in the first week and monthly post-treatment in GnRH group. And serum total testosterone (TT), testicular volume (TV) and rate of spermatogenesis were observed monthly post-treatment in two groups. Spermatogenesis, TT and TV were compared between two groups. All IHH patients were treated for over 3 months. The median follow-up periods in GnRH and HCG/HMG groups was 8.2 (3.0-18.4) and 9.2 (3.0-18.6) months respectively (P = 0.413). In GnRH group, LH ((0.5 ± 0.6) vs (3.4 ± 2.4) U/L, P < 0.01) and FSH ((1.3 ± 1.1) vs (5.8 ± 3.8) U/L, P < 0.01) increased after 1-week treatment. In GnRH group, at the end of follow-up, TT ((1.0 ± 1.0) vs (7.4 ± 5.2) nmol/L, P < 0.01) and TV ((2.3 ± 1.5) vs (8.1 ± 4.0) ml, P < 0.01) significantly increased compared to baseline. In HCG/HMG group, TT ((0.8 ± 0.6) vs (14.4 ± 8.0) nmol/L, P < 0.01) and TV ((2.3 ± 2.1) vs (7.6 ± 4.2) ml, P < 0.01) significantly increased after therapy. The success rate of spermatogenesis was 50.0% (20/40) in GnRH group versus 28.8% (15/52) in HCG/HMG group (P = 0.038). GnRH group required a shorter treatment time for initial sperm appearance than HCG/HMG group ((6.5 ± 3.1) vs (10.8 ± 3.7) months, P = 0.001). Pulsatile GnRH requires a shorter time for initiation of spermatogenesis than gonadotropin therapy in IHH male patients.

The Hispanic Americans Baseline Alcohol Survey (HABLAS): Rates and predictors of DUI across Hispanic national groups

PubMed Central

Caetano, Raul; Ramisetty-Mikler, Suhasini; Rodriguez, Lori A.

2008-01-01

This paper examines rates of self-reported driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol and 12 month and lifetime DUI arrest rates among Mexican Americans, Puerto Ricans, Cuban Americans and South/Central Americans in the U.S. population. Using a multistage cluster sample design, a total of 5,224 individuals 18 years of age and older were selected from the household population in five metropolitan areas of the U.S.: Miami, New York, Philadelphia, Houston and Los Angeles. The survey weighted response rate was 76%. Among men, 21% of Mexican Americans, 19.9% of South/Central Americans, 11.6% of Puerto Ricans and 6.9% of Cuban Americans reported DUI. Rates were lower among women, ranging from 9.7% for Mexican Americans to 1.3% for Cuban Americans. Mexican American men had the highest 12-month arrest rate (1.6%) and the highest lifetime arrest rate (11.2%). Drinkers who reported DUI were heavier drinkers than those not reporting DUI according to a variety of indicators. However, most DUI incidents involved non-alcohol dependent drivers. Mexican Americans and South Central/Americans, men, younger drivers, those with less than high school education, those with higher income and higher alcohol consumption were more likely to report DUI and DUI arrests. These findings show that Hispanic national groups in the U.S. are diverse regarding drinking and DUI-related experiences. PMID:18329428

The Hispanic Americans Baseline Alcohol Survey (HABLAS): Rates and predictors of DUI across Hispanic national groups.

PubMed

Caetano, Raul; Ramisetty-Mikler, Suhasini; Rodriguez, Lori A

2008-03-01

This paper examines rates of self-reported driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol and 12-month and lifetime DUI arrest rates among Mexican Americans, Puerto Ricans, Cuban Americans and South/Central Americans in the U.S. population. Using a multistage cluster sample design, a total of 5224 individuals 18 years of age and older were selected from the household population in five metropolitan areas of the U.S.: Miami, New York, Philadelphia, Houston and Los Angeles. The survey weighted response rate was 76%. Among men, 21% of Mexican Americans, 19.9% of South/Central Americans, 11.6% of Puerto Ricans and 6.9% of Cuban Americans reported DUI. Rates were lower among women, ranging from 9.7% for Mexican Americans to 1.3% for Cuban Americans. Mexican American men had the highest 12-month arrest rate (1.6%) and the highest lifetime arrest rate (11.2%). Drinkers who reported DUI were heavier drinkers than those not reporting DUI according to a variety of indicators. However, most DUI incidents involved non-alcohol-dependent drivers. Mexican Americans and South Central/Americans, men, younger drivers, those with less than high school education, those with higher income and higher alcohol consumption were more likely to report DUI and DUI arrests. These findings show that Hispanic national groups in the U.S. are diverse regarding drinking and DUI-related experiences.

Pulsatile luteinizing hormone patterns in the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle, polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD) and non-PCOD secondary amenorrhea.

PubMed

Burger, C W; Korsen, T; van Kessel, H; van Dop, P A; Caron, F J; Schoemaker, J

1985-12-01

To characterize the oscillations of plasma LH in normally cycling and amenorrheic women, three groups of women were studied: I, normal women during the follicular phase of the cycle (n = 9); II, women with polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD; n = 11); and III, women with non-PCOD secondary amenorrhea (n = 12). Blood samples were obtained at 10-min intervals for 6 h on 2 separate days. A pulse was defined as an increase in LH at least 20% over the preceding lowest value (nadir). Since LHRH release immediately follows the nadir of the LH levels, the nadir interval (NI) was used for analysis. For analysis, the results from 1 day were selected at random from each subject, and from each day, the same number of NIs also were randomly selected. When two NIs from each patient were selected, the median NI was 75 min in group I, 45 min in group II, and 45 min in group III. When three or four NIs were chosen, the median NI was 60 min in group I, 50 min in group II, and 40 min in group III. The differences between the groups were statistically significant. When three NIs were selected, the mean of the corresponding LH amplitudes was 2.8 U/liter in group I, 6.0 U/liter in group II, and 1.5 U/liter in group III. The differences between these groups were statistically significant. Thus, the NI in PCOD patients was shorter than that during the follicular phase of the cycle, but this short NI is not unique for PCOD, since the NI in non-PCOD secondary amenorrhea patients was even smaller. The LH amplitude was higher in PCOD and lower in non-PCOD secondary amenorrhea compared to that during the follicular phase of the cycle. The decrease in NI in PCOD and/or non-PCOD secondary amenorrhea vs. the NI of the follicular phase could be explained by either a higher frequency of LHRH pulses from the hypothalamus or an increased sensitivity of the pituitary leading to a greater response of the pituitary to LHRH pulses.

Archiving of Planetary Ring Data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Elliot, James L.

2001-01-01

Stellar occultation data provide our only Earth-based means of probing planetary rings at kilometer spatial resolution. The occultation data archive at MIT contains original data and analysis products of stellar occultations by the ring systems of the planets Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune observed by members of the group (and other groups) from 1977 to the present. During this time period, several media have been used to record and store the original and processed data: (1) chart records; (2) printed output, (3) audio reel tape; (4) audio cassette tape; (5) 7-track, 1/2-inch computer tape; (6) 9-track, 1/2-inch computer tape at 800, 1600, and 6250 bpi; (7) NOVA disk platters (2.5 and 5.0 Mbyte); (8) write once optical disks; (9) punched cards; and (10) read-write optical disks. With the rapid change of computer technology over this time period, some of these media have become not only obsolete, but nearly extinct. In particular, it has become nearly impossible to find any facilities that can still read 800 bpi tapes, which contain the only copies of several important data sets for the ring system of Uranus. In particular, we have an extensive ring data collection that includes data sets for the following Uranian ring occultations: U0, U11, U12, U13, U14, U25, U17, and U36.

Clinicobiochemical evaluation of turmeric with black pepper and nigella sativa in management of oral submucous fibrosis-a double-blind, randomized preliminary study.

PubMed

Pipalia, Pratik R; Annigeri, Rajeshwari G; Mehta, Ranjeeta

2016-12-01

To investigate the effectiveness of turmeric with black pepper and nigella sativa in oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF). Forty OSMF patients were randomly divided into two groups. The study was performed under a double-blind, randomized design. Group A received turmeric with black pepper and group B received nigella sativa for 3 months. Clinical evaluation was done every 15 days. Patients' serum superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels were assessed before and after treatment and also compared with healthy controls. The response to treatment was analyzed using analysis of variance, paired t test, and unpaired t test. After the treatment, groups A and B showed 3.85 ± 0.22 mm and 3.6 ± 0.07 mm improvement in mouth opening, respectively (P < .01); 87.90% and 78.91% reduction in burning sensation, respectively (P < .01); and +0.62 U/mL and +0.74 U/mL improvement in serum SOD levels, respectively (P < .05). The maximum mouth opening achieved was 8 mm in group A and 7 mm in group B. The mean pretreatment SOD level for controls and patients was 3.61 ± 0.24 U/mL in group A and 2.63 ± 0.18 U/mL in group B. Turmeric with black pepper and nigella sativa improved mouth opening, burning sensation, and SOD levels in the present OSMF study patients; however, further investigations are needed. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Preliminary evidence that cinnamon improves menstrual cyclicity in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Kort, Daniel H; Lobo, Roger A

2014-11-01

To determine the effect of cinnamon on menstrual cyclicity and metabolic dysfunction in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). In a prospective, placebo controlled, double-blinded randomized trial, 45 women with PCOS were randomized (1:1) to receive cinnamon supplements (1.5 g/d) or placebo for 6 months. Menstrual cyclicity (average cycles/month) during the 6 months study period was compared between the 2 groups using the Mann-Whitney U test. Changes in menstrual cyclicity and insulin resistance between baseline and the 6 month study period were compared between the 2 groups using Wilcoxon signed rank tests. The 45 women were randomized, 26 women completed 3 months of the study, and 17 women completed the entire 6 months of the study. During the 6 month intervention, menstrual cycles were more frequent in patients taking cinnamon compared with patients taking placebo (median, 0.75; interquartile range, 0.5-0.83 vs median, 0.25; interquartile range, 0-0.54; P = .0085; Mann Whitney U). In patients taking cinnamon, menstrual cyclicity improved from baseline (+ 0.23 cycles/month 95% confidence interval, 0.099-0.36), yet did not improve for women taking placebo. (P = .0076, Wilcoxon signed rank). Samples (n = 5) of serum from the luteal phase in different patients within the cinnamon group were thawed and ovulatory progesterone levels (>3 ng/mL) confirmed. Luteal phase progesterone levels (>3 ng/mL, n = 5) confirmed ovulatory menses. Measures of insulin resistance or serum androgen levels did not change for either group. These preliminary data suggest that cinnamon supplementation improves menstrual cyclicity and may be an effective treatment option for some women with PCOS. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Development and Application of Decision Aid for Tactical Control of Battlefield Operations: Bibliographic Sort of the Decision Aiding Literature

DTIC Science & Technology

1973-12-01

THEORY GAML THE’RY GROUP PROb SQL= U tIC PMLTRIC3b 63 C.LARKSON G a DEC MAK IN SMALL GROUPS A SIM STUDY bLHt SCI 6t0 13 2081 bRUNER J b STUDIES IN...MAK IN SMALL GROUPS A SIN STUDY : BLH 5(1 6d 13 2861 DODSON j 0 AS SIN RES FACILITYz SIN SYS DGN FOR TE AkCRL 111 PRI9I4• FLEEING R ASKS PROC.CONFLICTING...POU315IC HF. 66 MAR 7-1 SHURL ( H NNUAtCENTER FOR COMP BASED BEH STUDIES UCLA SEMIA NTIS-AD 731059 713 CLARKSON b DEC MAK IN SMALL GROUPS A SIM STUDY

Niagara Falls IAP NY. Revised Uniform Summary of Surface Weather Observations. Parts A-F.

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-10-01

14 Date of Report: Oct 1987 15 .tpas Comet: 312 16 Supplementary Notation: 17 COSATI Codes: Field --04, Group--02 18 Subject Term: *climatology...2.’ .3 .6 .3 .2 .0 .3 331. I ~ .3 2.0 7.! .6 .6. 04. 131 1U1 . . Z.9 2.? . .0 1.2 10.3 T(16 I !. 21.3 $S 3s3.. t. 1.2 .3 .2 100.0 . dm-C -LOsAL CLII...SIATL’Tr MILLS [9 3 GE GE GE I.E GE GE GE GE GE or G£ G GE GE 61 GE FEEI I I" b 5 4 32 lie 2 1 112 1 l I4 ! 1/4 518 1/1 ilb 114 U r.0 EIL I 22.7 75.b

Cognitive function in ecstasy naive abstinent drug dependants and MDMA users.

PubMed

Potter, Adam; Downey, Luke; Stough, Con

2013-03-01

'Hidden' symptoms, or subtle cognitive deficits and long-term changes in mood, have been linked to the recreational use of 3, 4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine/MDMA, and are notionally present in non-heavy polydrug users. This study assessed the cognitive functioning and mood profiles of clinically diagnosed drug dependents who had never consumed MDMA, recreational drug users that had previously consumed MDMA, with both groups having not consumed illicit drugs for 6-months, and a control group with limited illicit drug use and no MDMA usage in their past. Cognitive functioning was assessed using the Cognitive Drug Research computerised cognitive assessment system and participants completed the Profile of Mood States and Beck Depression Inventory to assess their current mood and depression. Participants in the clinically diagnosed drug dependent group scored significantly worse on the 'Quality of Working Memory' cognitive factor score than both the MDMA and control group (F (2, 33) = 5.75, p = 0.007). The control and clinical groups also differed on depression scores (U [16] = 13.00, p = 0.016) and Tension/Anxiety scores (U [16] = 16.00, p = 0.034), with the clinical group scoring significantly higher in both cases. The MDMA group did not differ from the control group on the measures of cognition or mood. These results suggest that despite a 6-month prolonged abstinence the cognitive deficits ostensibly caused by 'heavy' usage or the dependence on or abuse of illicit drugs are not reversed by abstinence.

Injury risk in Danish youth and senior elite handball using a new SMS text messages approach.

PubMed

Moller, Merete; Attermann, Jorn; Myklebust, Grethe; Wedderkopp, Niels

2012-06-01

To assess the injury incidence in elite handball, and if gender and previous injuries are risk factors for new injuries. Cohort study of 517 male and female elite handball players (age groups under (u)16, u-18 and senior). Participants completed a web survey establishing injury history, demographic information and sports experience, and provided weekly reports of time-loss injuries and handball exposure for 31 weeks by short message service text messaging (SMS). Injuries were further classified by telephone interview. The weekly response rate ranged from 85% to 90% illustrating the promise of the SMS system as a tool in injury surveillance. Of 448 reported injuries, 165 injuries (37%) were overuse injuries and 283 (63%) traumatic injuries. Knee (19%) and ankle (29%) were the most common traumatic injuries. The injury incidence during match play was 23.5 (95% CI 17.8 to 30.4), 15.1 (95% CI 9.7 to 22.2), 11.1 (95% CI 7.0 to 16.6) injuries per 1000 match hours among senior, u-18 and u-16 players, respectively. U-18 male players had an overall 1.76 (95% CI 1.10 to 2.80) times higher risk of injury compared to females. Having had two or more previous injuries causing absence from handball for more than 4 weeks increased the risk of new injury in the u-16 group (IRR: 1.79 (95% CI 1.03 to 3.11)-2.23 (95% CI 1.22 to 4.10)). The incidence of time-loss injuries in elite handball was higher during match play than previously reported in recreational handball. Previous injuries were a risk factor for new injuries among u-16 players. Male players had a significant higher injury rate in the u-18 group.

Effects of exogenous phytase and xylanase, individually or in combination, and pelleting on nutrient digestibility, available energy content of wheat and performance of growing pigs fed wheat-based diets

PubMed Central

Yang, Y. Y.; Fan, Y. F.; Cao, Y. H.; Guo, P. P.; Dong, B.; Ma, Y. X.

2017-01-01

Objective Two experiments were conducted to determine the effects of adding exogenous phytase and xylanase, individually or in combination, as well as pelleting on nutrient digestibility, available energy content of wheat and the performance of growing pigs fed wheat-based diets. Methods In Experiment 1, forty-eight barrows with an initial body weight of 35.9±0.6 kg were randomly assigned to a 2×4 factorial experiment with the main effects being feed form (pellet vs meal) and enzyme supplementation (none, 10,000 U/kg phytase, 4,000 U/kg xylanase or 10,000 U/kg phytase plus 4,000 U/kg xylanase). The basal diet contained 97.8% wheat. Pigs were placed in metabolic cages for a 7-d adaptation period followed by a 5-d total collection of feces and urine. Nutrient digestibility and available energy content were determined. Experiment 2 was conducted to evaluate the effects of pelleting and enzymes on performance of wheat for growing pigs. In this experiment, 180 growing pigs (35.2±9.0 kg BW) were allocated to 1 of 6 treatments according to a 2×3 factorial treatment arrangement with the main effects being feed form (meal vs pellet) and enzyme supplementation (0, 2,500 or 5,000 U/kg xylanase). Results In Experiment 1, there were no interactions between feed form and enzyme supplementation. Pelleting reduced the digestibility of acid detergent fiber (ADF) by 6.4 percentage units (p<0.01), increased the digestibility of energy by 0.6 percentage units (p<0.05), and tended to improve the digestibility of crude protein by 0.5 percentage units (p = 0.07) compared with diets in mash form. The addition of phytase improved the digestibility of phosphorus (p<0.01) and calcium (p<0.01) by 6.9 and 7.6 percentage units respectively compared with control group. Adding xylanase tended to increase the digestibility of crude protein by 1.0 percentage units (p = 0.09) and increased the digestibility of neutral detergent fiber (NDF) (p<0.01) compared with control group. Supplementation of the xylanase-phytase combination improved the digestibility of phosphorus (p<0.01) but impaired NDF digestibility (p<0.05) compared with adding xylanase alone. In Experiment 2, adding xylanase increased average daily gain (p<0.01) and linearly improved the feed:gain ratio (p<0.01) compared with control group. Conclusion Pelleting improved energy digestibility but decreased ADF digestibility. Adding xylanase increased crude protein digestibility and pig performance. Phytase increased the apparent total tract digestibility of phosphorus and calcium. The combination of phytase-xylanase supplementation impaired the effects of xylanase on NDF digestibility. PMID:27004820

Effects of exogenous phytase and xylanase, individually or in combination, and pelleting on nutrient digestibility, available energy content of wheat and performance of growing pigs fed wheat-based diets.

PubMed

Yang, Y Y; Fan, Y F; Cao, Y H; Guo, P P; Dong, B; Ma, Y X

2017-01-01

Two experiments were conducted to determine the effects of adding exogenous phytase and xylanase, individually or in combination, as well as pelleting on nutrient digestibility, available energy content of wheat and the performance of growing pigs fed wheat-based diets. In Experiment 1, forty-eight barrows with an initial body weight of 35.9±0.6 kg were randomly assigned to a 2×4 factorial experiment with the main effects being feed form (pellet vs meal) and enzyme supplementation (none, 10,000 U/kg phytase, 4,000 U/kg xylanase or 10,000 U/kg phytase plus 4,000 U/kg xylanase). The basal diet contained 97.8% wheat. Pigs were placed in metabolic cages for a 7-d adaptation period followed by a 5-d total collection of feces and urine. Nutrient digestibility and available energy content were determined. Experiment 2 was conducted to evaluate the effects of pelleting and enzymes on performance of wheat for growing pigs. In this experiment, 180 growing pigs (35.2±9.0 kg BW) were allocated to 1 of 6 treatments according to a 2×3 factorial treatment arrangement with the main effects being feed form (meal vs pellet) and enzyme supplementation (0, 2,500 or 5,000 U/kg xylanase). In Experiment 1, there were no interactions between feed form and enzyme supplementation. Pelleting reduced the digestibility of acid detergent fiber (ADF) by 6.4 percentage units (p<0.01), increased the digestibility of energy by 0.6 percentage units (p<0.05), and tended to improve the digestibility of crude protein by 0.5 percentage units (p = 0.07) compared with diets in mash form. The addition of phytase improved the digestibility of phosphorus (p<0.01) and calcium (p<0.01) by 6.9 and 7.6 percentage units respectively compared with control group. Adding xylanase tended to increase the digestibility of crude protein by 1.0 percentage units (p = 0.09) and increased the digestibility of neutral detergent fiber (NDF) (p<0.01) compared with control group. Supplementation of the xylanase-phytase combination improved the digestibility of phosphorus (p<0.01) but impaired NDF digestibility (p<0.05) compared with adding xylanase alone. In Experiment 2, adding xylanase increased average daily gain (p<0.01) and linearly improved the feed:gain ratio (p<0.01) compared with control group. Pelleting improved energy digestibility but decreased ADF digestibility. Adding xylanase increased crude protein digestibility and pig performance. Phytase increased the apparent total tract digestibility of phosphorus and calcium. The combination of phytase-xylanase supplementation impaired the effects of xylanase on NDF digestibility.

Dental and skeletal components of Class II open bite treatment with a modified Thurow appliance

PubMed Central

Jacob, Helder Baldi; dos Santos-Pinto, Ary; Buschang, Peter H.

2014-01-01

Introduction Due to the lack of studies that distinguish between dentoalveolar and basal changes caused by the Thurow appliance, this clinical study, carried out by the School of Dentistry - State University of São Paulo/Araraquara, aimed at assessing the dental and skeletal changes induced by modified Thurow appliance. Methods The sample included an experimental group comprising 13 subjects aged between 7 and 10 years old, with Class II malocclusion and anterior open bite, and a control group comprising 22 subjects similar in age, sex and mandibular plane angle. Maxillary/mandibular, horizontal/vertical, dental/skeletal movements (ANS, PNS, U1, U6, Co, Go, Pog, L1, L6) were assessed, based on 14 landmarks, 8 angles (S-N-ANS, SNA, PPA, S-N-Pog, SNB, MPA, PP/MPA, ANB) and 3 linear measures (N-Me, ANS-Me, S-Go). Results Treatment caused significantly greater angle decrease between the palatal and the mandibular plane of the experimental group, primarily due to an increase in the palatal plane angle. ANB, SNA and S-N-ANS angles significantly decreased more in patients from the experimental group. PNS was superiorly remodeled. Lower face height (ANS-Me) decreased in the experimental group and increased in the control group. Conclusions The modified Thurow appliance controlled vertical and horizontal displacements of the maxilla, rotated the maxilla and improved open bite malocclusion, decreasing lower facial height. PMID:24713556

Influence of physical preconditioning on the responsiveness of rat pulmonary artery after pulmonary ischemia/reperfusion.

PubMed

Delbin, Maria Andréia; Moraes, Camila; Camargo, Enilton; Mussi, Ricardo K; Antunes, Edson; de Nucci, Gilberto; Zanesco, Angelina

2007-07-01

The aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of physical preconditioning in the responsiveness of rat pulmonary rings submitted to lung ischemia/reperfusion (IR). Wistar rats were divided into three groups: Sedentary sham-operated (SD/SHAM); sedentary submitted to ischemia/reperfusion (SD/IR) and trained submitted to ischemia/reperfusion (TR/IR) animals. Exercise training consisted in sessions of 60 min/day running sessions, 5 days/week for 8 weeks. Left pulmonary IR was performed by occluding for 90 min and reperfusing for 120 min. After that, pulmonary arteries were isolated and concentration-response curves to acetylcholine (ACh), histamine (HIST), sodium nitroprusside (SNP), phenylephrine and U46619 were obtained. Neither potency (-log EC(50)) nor maximal responses (E(max)) were modified for ACh and HIST in all groups. On the other hand, the potency for SNP was significantly increased in TR/IR group (8.23+/-0.06) compared to SD/IR group (7.85+/-0.04). Contractile responses mediated by a-adrenergic receptor were markedly decreased in IR groups (SD/IR: 6.75+/-0.06 and TR/IR: 6.62+/-0.04) compared to SD/SHAM (7.33+/-0.05). No changes were seen for the U46619 in all groups. In conclusion, the present study shows that exercise training has no protective actions in the local blood vessel where the IR process takes place.

Rapid Weight Loss Elicits Harmful Biochemical and Hormonal Responses in Mixed Martial Arts Athletes.

PubMed

Coswig, Victor Silveira; Fukuda, David Hideyoshi; Del Vecchio, Fabrício Boscolo

2015-10-01

The purpose of this study was to compare biochemical and hormonal responses between mixed martial arts (MMA) competitors with minimal prefight weight loss and those undergoing rapid weight loss (RWL). Blood samples were taken from 17 MMA athletes (Mean± SD; age: 27.4 ±5.3yr; body mass: 76.2 ± 12.4kg; height: 1.71 ± 0.05m and training experience: 39.4 ± 25 months) before and after each match, according to the official events rules. The no rapid weight loss (NWL, n = 12) group weighed in on the day of the event (~30 min prior fight) and athletes declared not having used RWL strategies, while the RWL group (n = 5) weighed in 24 hr before the event and the athletes claimed to have lost 7.4 ± 1.1kg, approximately 10% of their body mass in the week preceding the event. Results showed significant (p < .05) increases following fights, regardless of group, in lactate, glucose, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatinine, and cortisol for all athletes. With regard to group differences, NWL had significantly (p < .05) greater creatinine levels (Mean± SD; pre to post) (NWL= 101.6 ± 15-142.3 ± 22.9μmol/L and RWL= 68.9 ± 10.6-79.5 ± 15.9μmol/L), while RWL had higher LDH (median [interquartile range]; pre to post) (NWL= 211.5[183-236] to 231[203-258]U/L and RWL= 390[370.5-443.5] to 488[463.5-540.5]U/L) and AST (NWL= 30[22-37] to 32[22-41]U/L and 39[32.5-76.5] to 72[38.5-112.5] U/L) values (NWL versus RWL, p < .05). Post hoc analysis showed that AST significantly increased in only the RWL group, while creatinine increased in only the NWL group. The practice of rapid weight loss showed a negative impact on energy availability and increased both muscle damage markers and catabolic expression in MMA fighters.

[Development and evaluation of a high-fat/high-fructose diet-induced nonalcoholic steatohepatitis mouse model].

PubMed

Liu, Jing; Liu, Yinlan; Wang, Wenjun; Luo, Yan; Zhuang, Zhenjie; Jiao, Qibin; Chen, Jianyu; Bian, Dongxue; Ma, Xiaojie; Xun, Yunhao; Zhu, Mingli; Shi, Junping

2014-06-01

To develop and evaluate a mouse model of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) induced by a high-fat and high-fructose (HFHFr) diet. Six-week-old C3H mice were randomly divided into groups for HFHFr diet experimental modeling, high fat-only (HF) diet controls, high fructose-only (HFr) diet controls, and standard chow (SC) diet controls. The standard HFHFr diet was modified so that it consisted of 76.5% standard chow, 12% lard, 1% cholesterol, 5% egg yolk powder, 5% whole milk powder, and 0.5% sodium cholate, along with 20% fructose drinking water. At the end of experimental weeks 4, 8, and 16, measurements were taken for the NASH-related parameters of body mass, serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), lipid profile, and wet liver weight (upon sacrifice). In addition, histological changes in the liver were evaluated by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) and oil red O staining. The significance of differences between groups was assessed by statistical analysis, using the of t-test, Wilcoxon rank sum test, x2 test, F test or Fisher's test as appropriate. As compared to the mice in the SC group at the corresponding time points, the mice in the HFHFr and HF groups showed significantly higher body mass and wet liver weight, as well as more extensive and robust lipid disposition in hepatic tissues as evidenced by oil red O staining. However, HE staining indicated that the HFHFr and HF groups had different degrees of macrosteatosis accompanied with intralobular inflammatory foci, with the former showing more remarkable NASH-related histological changes. Analysis at the end of week 16 showed that about 80% of the mice in the HFHFr group had developed NASH [nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) activity score (NAS): less than 5]. The levels of low-and high-density lipoprotein (LDL and HDL) cholesterol, as well as the levels of ALT and AST, were increased from the end of week 4 to the end of week 8 for the HFHFr and HF groups. At the end of week 16, the two groups differed in the extent of increase in total cholesterol and LDL and HDL cholesterol, with only the HFHFr group showing statistically significant changes. Specifically, at the end of week 16, the HFHFr group showed ALT levels of 108.5 +/- 93.34 U/L (F=5.099, P =0.005 vs. HF group: 44.30 +/- 35.71 U/L, HFr group: 46.70 +/- 17.95 U/L, SC group: 24.70 +/- 6.57 U/L), AST levels of 316.30 +/- 208.98 U/L (F=6.654, P=0.001 vs. HF: 132.12 +/- 75.43 U/L, HFr: 143.30 +/- 38.53 U/L, SC: 122.60 +/- 12.76 U/L), total cholesterol levels of 5.18 +/- 0.58 mmol/L (F=72: 470, P =0.000 vs. HF: 3.94 +/- 0.75 mmol/L, HFr: 2.30 +/- 0.50 mmol/L, SC: 2.02 +/- 0.24 mmol/L), HDL cholesterol levels of 3.05 +/- 0.49 mmol/L (F=25.413, P =0.000 vs. HF: 2.65 +/- 0.54 mmol/L HFr: 1.77 +/- 0.47 mmol/L, SC: 1.58 +/- 0.16 mmol/L), LDL cholesterol levels of 1.11 +/- 0.23 mmol/L (F =83.297, P =0.000 vs. HF: 0.72 +/- 0.17 mmol/L, HFr: 0.27 +/- 0.04 mmol/L, SC: 0.20 +/- 0.05 mmol/ L). The present study suggests that a mouse model of NASH can be successfully induced by a 16-week modified HFHFr diet.

[Effect of recombinant human growth hormone therapy on metabolic parameters in patients with craniopharyngioma].

PubMed

Mao, J F; Wang, X; Xiong, S Y; Zheng, J J; Yu, B Q; Nie, M; Wu, X Y; Qi, S T

2017-11-14

Objective: To investigate the effects of recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) on metabolic parameters in patients with craniopharyngioma surgeries. Methods: Totallys 30 patients with craniopharyngioma were included in this retrospective study. They were divided into growth hormone (GH) group and control group according to whether they received rhGH therapy or not. The following parameters, including body mass index (BMI), weight, waist circumstance, transaminase, fasting blood glucose, lipid profile and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) were compared after rhGH therapy for 4-6 months. Results: In GH group, patients were 18-46 (30.0±8.8) years old. The duration after craniopharyngioma surgery was (12.9±5.4) years. Before rhGH therapy, they had got sufficient thyroid and glucocorticoid hormone replacement. After rhGH therapy, the body weight decreased from (92.3±20.1) to (87.6 ±14.6) kg ( P =0.190), with a reduction of BMI from (30.1±5.9) to (28.2±3.7) kg/m(2) ( P =0.120). The waist circumference decreased from (104.4±9.4) cm to (98.8±10.6) cm ( P =0.002). Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) decreased from (52±34) to (28±19) U/L ( P =0.029), with a reduction of aspartate transaminase (AST) from (46±21) to (33±18) U/L ( P =0.035) and γ-glutamyl transpeptadase (GGT) from (59±42) to (29±15) U/L ( P =0.02). hsCRP decreased from (5.3±4.9) to (2.3±2.8) mg/L ( P =0.006) and triglyceride (TG) decreased from (1.8±0.7) to (1.5±0.6) mmol/L ( P =0.028). Fasting blood glucose, low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and free fat acid (FFA) were not significantly changed(all P >0.05). In the control group, the above mentioned parameters did not changed significantly during 4-6 months of observational period(all P >0.05). Conclusion: rhGH therapy improves metabolic parameters in patients after craniopharyngioma surgery by decreasing body weight, waist circumstance and fat deposit in liver, as well as lowering TG and hsCRP levels.

The Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test level 1 is reliable in young high-level soccer players.

PubMed

Deprez, D; Fransen, J; Lenoir, M; Philippaerts, Rm; Vaeyens, R

2015-03-01

The aim of the study was to investigate test reliability of the Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test level 1 (YYIR1) in 36 high-level youth soccer players, aged between 13 and 18 years. Players were divided into three age groups (U15, U17 and U19) and completed three YYIR1 in three consecutive weeks. Pairwise comparisons were used to investigate test reliability (for distances and heart rate responses) using technical error (TE), coefficient of variation (CV), intra-class correlation (ICC) and limits of agreement (LOA) with Bland-Altman plots. The mean YYIR1 distances for the U15, U17 and U19 groups were 2024 ± 470 m, 2404 ± 347 m and 2547 ± 337 m, respectively. The results revealed that the TEs varied between 74 and 172 m, CVs between 3.0 and 7.5%, and ICCs between 0.87 and 0.95 across all age groups for the YYIR1 distance. For heart rate responses, the TEs varied between 1 and 6 bpm, CVs between 0.7 and 4.8%, and ICCs between 0.73 and 0.97. The small ratio LOA revealed that any two YYIR1 performances in one week will not differ by more than 9 to 28% due to measurement error. In summary, the YYIR1 performance and the physiological responses have proven to be highly reliable in a sample of Belgian high-level youth soccer players, aged between 13 and 18 years. The demonstrated high level of intermittent endurance capacity in all age groups may be used for comparison of other prospective young soccer players.

15 CFR 744.6 - Restrictions on certain activities of U.S. persons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... missiles in or by a country listed in Country Group D:4 (see supplement no. 1 to part 740 of the EAR); or..., production, or use of missiles in or by a country listed in Country Group D:4 (see supplement no. 1 to part... nuclear explosive devices, chemical or biological weapons, or of missiles. [61 FR 12802, Mar. 25, 1996, as...

15 CFR 744.6 - Restrictions on certain activities of U.S. persons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... missiles in or by a country listed in Country Group D:4 (see supplement no. 1 to part 740 of the EAR); or..., production, or use of missiles in or by a country listed in Country Group D:4 (see supplement no. 1 to part... nuclear explosive devices, chemical or biological weapons, or of missiles. [61 FR 12802, Mar. 25, 1996, as...

15 CFR 744.6 - Restrictions on certain activities of U.S. persons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... missiles in or by a country listed in Country Group D:4 (see supplement no. 1 to part 740 of the EAR); or..., production, or use of missiles in or by a country listed in Country Group D:4 (see supplement no. 1 to part... nuclear explosive devices, chemical or biological weapons, or of missiles. [61 FR 12802, Mar. 25, 1996, as...

Improving the Performance of AI Algorithms.

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-09-01

favorably -6 influenced by s uch progranmning practices as the intellige +nt selt,(-rion .%V ’%. ot’ data formats; to) minimize th~e n,,-ed for...GROUP SUB-GROUP Artifcial Intelgence (Al) Algorithms, Improving Software .’ u- 12 05 Performance, Program Behavior, Predicting Performance, % 12 07...tions in communications, threat assessment, res(orce availability, and so forth. This need for intelligent and adaptable behavior indicates that the

75 FR 64734 - National Cancer Institute; Notice of Closed Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-10-20

...--Clinical Groups, NCI-H Cooperative Groups. Date: November 1, 2010. Time: 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Agenda: To....S.C. App.), notice is hereby given of the following meeting. The meeting will be closed to the public in accordance with the provisions set forth in sections 552b(c)(4) and 552b(c)(6), Title 5 U.S.C...

Postdischarge Behavioral Health Treatment and 6-Month Reattempt Rate for Veterans Hospitalized for Suicide Attempt.

PubMed

Bernet, Alice C

2015-01-01

The highest risk for suicide occurs immediately after psychiatric discharge. The U.S. Department of Veteran's Affairs' (VA) suicide prevention program emphasizes suicide surveillance and frequent contact after suicide attempt. To describe the 6-month reattempt rate and appointment characteristics for veterans after VA hospitalization for suicide attempt. This retrospective observational study identified veterans hospitalized for suicide attempt (N = 504). Comparisons of patient characteristics and treatment delivery were conducted between veteran groups. The sample (N = 504) was predominantly White (82%) and male (91%), with a median age of 50 years. The 6-month reattempt rate was 6%. Timing of first appointment was earlier in the reattempt group (n = 20) versus the no-reattempt group (n = 467). Appointment intensity, especially telephone appointments, was greater in the reattempt group. The effect of postdischarge treatment on preventing suicide cannot be determined by evaluating only treatment timing and intensity. Future studies should measure the treatment quality and clinical severity. © The Author(s) 2015.

The comparison of microbial leakage in roots filled with resilon and gutta-percha: An in vitro study.

PubMed

Shashidhar, C; Shivanna, Vasundhara; Shivamurthy, Gb; Shashidhar, Jyothi

2011-01-01

The objective of this study was to compare bacterial leakage using streptococcus mutans through gutta-percha and a thermoplastic synthetic polymer based root canal filling material (Resilon) using two filling techniques. A total of 90 single-rooted extracted human teeth were subjected for the study. Teeth were divided into 6 groups of 10 and 3 control groups of 10 teeth each. All the samples were decoronated and the coronal surfaces of the roots were prepared perpendicular to the long axis of the root with a high-speed handpiece and a multipurpose bur using air water spray. The length of all the roots was prepared approximately 16 mm from the coronal surface to the apex of the root. Roots were filled using lateral and vertical condensation techniques with gutta-percha and AH26 sealer (Group 1 and 2) or with gutta-percha and epiphany sealer (Group 3 and 4). Group 5 and 6 were filled with Resilon and epiphany sealer using the lateral and vertical condensation techniques. A split chamber microbial leakage model was used in which S. mutans placed in the upper chamber could reach the lower chamber only through the filled root canal. Group 7 and 8 (positive control) were filled with Resilon and gutta-percha without sealer and tested with bacteria, whereas Group 7 (negative control) was sealed with wax to test the seal between the chambers. Data were analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis test and Mann-Whitney U test. All positive groups (Group 7 and 8) showed leakage within 1 hour of the start of the study (100%), whereas none of the negative control (Group 9) leaked. The roots obturated with Resilon and epiphany (Group 5 and 6) showed minimal leakage, i.e., each with 6 leakages, which was significantly less than gutta-percha (Group 1-4), in which approximately 80% of specimens with either sealer or techniques leaked. Kruskal-Wallis test showed statistical significance when all groups were compared (P<0.05). Mann-Whitney U test compared the respective groups and found Resilon groups superior to gutta-percha groups (P<0.05). This study demonstrated that the new polymer-based Resilon and epiphany sealer using two obturating techniques, i.e., lateral as well as vertical condensation found to be significantly better than the gutta-percha.

All Small Nuclear RNAs (snRNAs) of the [U4/U6.U5] Tri-snRNP Localize to Nucleoli; Identification of the Nucleolar Localization Element of U6 snRNA

PubMed Central

Gerbi, Susan A.; Lange, Thilo Sascha

2002-01-01

Previously, we showed that spliceosomal U6 small nuclear RNA (snRNA) transiently passes through the nucleolus. Herein, we report that all individual snRNAs of the [U4/U6.U5] tri-snRNP localize to nucleoli, demonstrated by fluorescence microscopy of nucleolar preparations after injection of fluorescein-labeled snRNA into Xenopus oocyte nuclei. Nucleolar localization of U6 is independent from [U4/U6] snRNP formation since sites of direct interaction of U6 snRNA with U4 snRNA are not nucleolar localization elements. Among all regions in U6, the only one required for nucleolar localization is its 3′ end, which associates with the La protein and subsequently during maturation of U6 is bound by Lsm proteins. This 3′-nucleolar localization element of U6 is both essential and sufficient for nucleolar localization and also required for localization to Cajal bodies. Conversion of the 3′ hydroxyl of U6 snRNA to a 3′ phosphate prevents association with the La protein but does not affect U6 localization to nucleoli or Cajal bodies. PMID:12221120

Identifying the ‘Vulnerables’ in Biomedical Research: the vox populis from the Tuskegee Legacy Project

PubMed Central

Wiley, John

2011-01-01

Objectives This report presents, for the first time, findings on the vox populis as to who constitutes the ‘vulnerables in biomedical research’. Methods The 3-City Tuskegee Legacy Project (TLP) study used the TLP Questionnaire as administered via RDD telephone interviews to 1,162 adult Blacks, non-Hispanic Whites, and two Puerto Rican (PR) Hispanic groups: Mainland U.S. and San Juan (SJ) in 3 cities. The classification schema was based upon respondents’ answers to an open-ended question asking which groups of people were the most vulnerable when participating in biomedical research. Results Subjects provided 749 valid open-ended responses which were grouped into 29 direct response categories, leading to a 4 tier classification schema for vulnerability traits. Tier 1, the summary tier, had five vulnerability categories: 1) Race/ethnicity; 2) Age; 3) SES; 4) Health; and, 5) Gender. Blacks and Mainland U.S. PR Hispanics most frequently identified Race/Ethnicity as a vulnerability trait (42.1% of Blacks and 42.6% of Mainland U.S. PR Hispanics vs. 15.4% of Whites and 16.7% of San Juan R Hispanics) (p<.007), while Whites and SJ PR Hispanics most frequently identified Age (48.3% and 29.2%) as a vulnerability trait. Conclusions The response patterns on ‘who was vulnerable’ were similar for the two minority groups (Blacks and Mainland U.S. PR Hispanics), and notably different from the response patterns of the two majority groups (Whites and SJPR Hispanics). Further, the vox populis definition of vulnerables differed from the current official definitions as used by the U.S. federal government. PMID:21972462

Hybrid Finite Element Analysis of Free Edge Effect in Symmetric Composite Laminates

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-06-01

SJ3 (i,j = 1,2,4,5,6) (A.1.7)i Sij - S3 3 For symmetric angle ply case 814 : B24 = B34 = B54 : 0 (A.1.8)I B16 B 2 6 =B 3 6 =B 6 =0 In matrix form, eq...A.1.6) can be written as c = B a + co (A.l.9) 36 wi th c Xx c yy yz (A.1.10) zx c xy B 1 . B16 B = 5 x 5 matrix (A . I) B61 B6 6 axx yy (A..12...3.38) u rc+l 6 Ca+l *wU +l E: Aku rk (Ck)k=l where u 2 Pk = B 1 u ( uku) + B2 u - Bl6 Uuk u+xku(Bl5u k uB14 U) uB u qu= B u u + B22 - B26 + ku (B25U

Role of a Burr Hole and Calvarial Bone Marrow-Derived Stem Cells in the Ischemic Rat Brain: A Possible Mechanism for the Efficacy of Multiple Burr Hole Surgery in Moyamoya Disease.

PubMed

Nam, Taek-Kyun; Park, Seung-Won; Park, Yong-Sook; Kwon, Jeong-Taik; Min, Byung-Kook; Hwang, Sung-Nam

2015-09-01

This study investigates the role of a burr hole and calvarial bone marrow-derived stem cells (BMSCs) in a transient ischemic brain injury model in the rat and postulates a possible mechanism for the efficacy of multiple cranial burr hole (MCBH) surgery in moyamoya disease (MMD). Twenty Sprague-Dawley rats (250 g, male) were divided into four groups : normal control group (n=5), burr hole group (n=5), ischemia group (n=5), and ischemia+burr hole group (n=5). Focal ischemia was induced by the transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). At one week after the ischemic injury, a 2 mm-sized cranial burr hole with small cortical incision was made on the ipsilateral (left) parietal area. Bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU, 50 mg/kg) was injected intraperitoneally, 2 times a day for 6 days after the burr hole trephination. At one week after the burr hole trephination, brains were harvested. Immunohistochemical stainings for BrdU, CD34, VEGF, and Doublecortin and Nestin were done. In the ischemia+burr hole group, BrdU (+), CD34 (+), and Doublecortin (+) cells were found in the cortical incision site below the burr hole. A number of cells with Nestin (+) or VEGF (+) were found in the cerebral parenchyma around the cortical incision site. In the other groups, BrdU (+), CD34 (+), Doublecortin (+), and Nestin (+) cells were not detected in the corresponding area. These findings suggest that BrdU (+) and CD34 (+) cells are bone marrow-derived stem cells, which may be derived from the calvarial bone marrow through the burr hole. The existence of CD34 (+) and VEGF (+) cells indicates increased angiogenesis, while the existence of Doublecortin (+), Nestin (+) cells indicates increased neurogenesis. Based on these findings, the BMSCs through burr holes seem to play an important role for the therapeutic effect of the MCBH surgery in MMD.

Charge and orbital orders and structural instability in high-pressure quadruple perovskite CeCuMn6O12

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Lei; Matsushita, Yoshitaka; Katsuya, Yoshio; Tanaka, Masahiko; Yamaura, Kazunari; Belik, Alexei A.

2018-02-01

We prepared a quadruple perovskite CeCuMn6O12 under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions at 6 GPa and about 1670 K and investigated its structural, magnetic and transport properties. CeCuMn6O12 crystallizes in space group Im-3 above T CO  =  297 K below this temperature, it adopts space group R-3 with the 1:3 (Mn4+:Mn3+) charge and orbital orders. Unusual compressed Mn3+O6 octahedra are realized in CeCuMn6O12 similar to CaMn7O12 with the  -Q 3 Jahn-Teller distortion mode. Below about 90 K, structural instability takes place with phase separation and the appearance of competing phases; and below 70 K, two R-3 phases coexist. CeCuMn6O12 exhibits a ferromagnetic-like transition below T C  =  140 K, and it is a semiconductor with the magnetoresistance reaching about  -40% at 140 K and 70 kOe. We argued that the valence of Ce is  +3 in CeCuMn6O12 with the Ce3+(C{{u}2+}Mn23+ )(Mn33+M{{n}4+} )O12 charge distribution in the charge-ordered R-3 phase and Ce3+(C{{u}2+}Mn23+ )(Mn43.25+ )O12 in the charge-disordered Im-3 phase.

Racial Minority Groups in North Dakota, 1970-1980: A Statistical Portrait. North Dakota Census Data Center Report Series No. 6.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Daul, Jennifer; And Others

Demographic and economic characteristics of racial minorities (American Indian, Eskimo, Aleut, Black, Japanese, Chinese, Filipino, Korean, Vietnamese, Asian Indian or other) in North Dakota in 1980 are presented, using U.S. Bureau of the Census data. Between 1970 and 1980, the number of racial minority residents increased by 8,900 (48.6%), with…

Neonatal and Infant Mortality in Korea, Japan, and the U.S.: Effect of Birth Weight Distribution and Birth Weight-Specific Mortality Rates.

PubMed

Kim, Do Hyun; Jeon, Jihyun; Park, Chang Gi; Sriram, Sudhir; Lee, Kwang Sun

2016-09-01

Difference in crude neonatal and infant mortality rates (NMR and IMR) among different countries is due to the differences in its two determinants: birth weight distribution (BWD) and birth weight-specific mortality rates (BW-SMRs). We aimed to determine impact of BWD and BW-SMRs on differences in crude NMR and IMR among Korea, Japan, and the U.S. Our study used the live birth data of the period 2009 through 2010. Crude NMR/IMR are the lowest in Japan, 1.1/2.1, compared to 1.8/3.2, in Korea, and 4.1/6.2, in the U.S., respectively. Japanese had the best BW-SMRs of all birth weight groups compared to the Koreans and the U.S. The U.S. BWD was unfavorable with very low birth weight (< 1,500 g) rate of 1.4%, compared to 0.6% in Korea, and 0.8% in Japan. If Koreans and Japanese had the same BWD as in the U.S., their crude NMR/IMR would be 3.9/6.1 for the Koreans and 1.5/2.5 for the Japanese. If both Koreans and Japanese had the same BW-SMRs as in the U.S., the crude NMR/IMR would be 2.0/3.8 for the Koreans and 2.7/5.0 for the Japanese. In conclusion, compared to the U.S., lower crude NMR or IMR in Japan is mainly attributable to its better BW-SMRs. Koreans had lower crude NMR and IMR, primarily from its favorable BWD. Comparing crude NMR or IMR among different countries should include further exploration of its two determinants, BW-SMRs reflecting medical care, and BWD reflecting socio-demographic conditions.

Neonatal and Infant Mortality in Korea, Japan, and the U.S.: Effect of Birth Weight Distribution and Birth Weight-Specific Mortality Rates

PubMed Central

2016-01-01

Difference in crude neonatal and infant mortality rates (NMR and IMR) among different countries is due to the differences in its two determinants: birth weight distribution (BWD) and birth weight-specific mortality rates (BW-SMRs). We aimed to determine impact of BWD and BW-SMRs on differences in crude NMR and IMR among Korea, Japan, and the U.S. Our study used the live birth data of the period 2009 through 2010. Crude NMR/IMR are the lowest in Japan, 1.1/2.1, compared to 1.8/3.2, in Korea, and 4.1/6.2, in the U.S., respectively. Japanese had the best BW-SMRs of all birth weight groups compared to the Koreans and the U.S. The U.S. BWD was unfavorable with very low birth weight (< 1,500 g) rate of 1.4%, compared to 0.6% in Korea, and 0.8% in Japan. If Koreans and Japanese had the same BWD as in the U.S., their crude NMR/IMR would be 3.9/6.1 for the Koreans and 1.5/2.5 for the Japanese. If both Koreans and Japanese had the same BW-SMRs as in the U.S., the crude NMR/IMR would be 2.0/3.8 for the Koreans and 2.7/5.0 for the Japanese. In conclusion, compared to the U.S., lower crude NMR or IMR in Japan is mainly attributable to its better BW-SMRs. Koreans had lower crude NMR and IMR, primarily from its favorable BWD. Comparing crude NMR or IMR among different countries should include further exploration of its two determinants, BW-SMRs reflecting medical care, and BWD reflecting socio-demographic conditions. PMID:27510390

68Ga PSMA-11 PET with CT urography protocol in the initial staging and biochemical relapse of prostate cancer.

PubMed

Iravani, Amir; Hofman, Michael S; Mulcahy, Tony; Williams, Scott; Murphy, Declan; Parameswaran, Bimal K; Hicks, Rodney J

2017-12-21

68 Ga-labelled prostate specific membrane antigen (PSMA) ligand PET/CT is a promising modality in primary staging (PS) and biochemical relapse (BCR) of prostate cancer (PC). However, pelvic nodes or local recurrences can be difficult to differentiate from radioactive urine. CT urography (CT-U) is an established method, which allows assessment of urological malignancies. The study presents a novel protocol of 68 Ga-PSMA-11 PET/CT-U in PS and BCR of PC. A retrospective review of PSMA PET/CT-U preformed on 57 consecutive patients with prostate cancer. Fifty mL of IV contrast was administered 10 min (range 8-15) before the CT component of a combined PET/CT study, acquired approximately 60 min (range 40-85) after administration of 166 MBq (range 91-246) of 68 Ga-PSMA-11. PET and PET/CT-U were reviewed by two nuclear medicine physicians and CT-U by a radiologist. First, PET images were reviewed independently followed by PET/CT-U images. Foci of activity which could not unequivocally be assessed as disease or urinary activity were recorded. PET/CT-U was considered of potential benefit in final interpretation when the equivocal focal activity in PET images corresponded to opacified ureter, bladder, prostate bed, seminal vesicles, or urethra. Student's T test and Pearson's correlation coefficient was used for assessment of variables including lymph node size and standardized uptake value. Overall 50 PSMA PET/CT-U studies were performed for BCR and 7 for PS. Median PSA with BCR and PS were 2.0 ± 11.4 ng/ml (0.06-57.3 ng/ml) and 18 ± 35.3 ng/ml (6.8-100 ng/ml), respectively. The median Gleason-score for both groups was 7 (range 6-10). In BCR group, PSMA PET was reported positive in 36 (72%) patients, CT-U in 11(22%) patients and PET/CT-U in 33 (66%) patients. In PS group, PSMA PET detected the primary site in all seven patients, of which one patient with metastatic nodal disease had negative CT finding. Of 40 equivocal foci (27/57 patients) on PET, 11 foci (10/57 patients, 17.5%) were localized to enhanced urine on PET/CT-U, hence considered of potential benefit in interpretation. Of those, 3 foci (3 patients) were solitary sites of activity on PSMA imaging including two local and one nodal site and 4 foci (3 patients) were in different nodal fields. PET/CT-U protocol is a practical approach and may assist in interpretation of 68 Ga-PSMA-11 imaging by delineation of the contrast opacified genitourinary system and matching focal PSMA activity with urinary contrast.

Pupillometry and Saccades as Objective mTBI Biomark

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-06-01

pupillometers, King-Devick (KD) test and near point of convergence (NPC) rule, respectively. Hundred acute mTBI (≤72 hrs post injury) and 100 age-matched... test  and NPC are also significantly effected in mTBI group.  Task 3: Data Analysis and Report Writing mTBI Control 6/28/2017 1 Medical Research and...U.S. Army Aeromedical Research Laboratory Fort Rucker, Alabama UNCLASSIFIED King-Devick Test 10 *P < 0.0001 Medical Research and Materiel Command U.S

Risk Factors for Colostomy in Military Colorectal Trauma: A Review of 867 Patients

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-06-01

tion with ostomy rate (43% for >12 U compared with 35% for #12 U; P = .06). Presenting base deficit did not differ between the 2 groups (2.82 colostomy...outcomes data to include postoperative morbidity, ostomy reversal rates, and complication rates, as well as overall quality-of-life outcomes requires...Health Pro- gram 6.7 grant ‘‘Quality of Life and Obstacles to Care in Injured Personnel with Ostomies ,’’ Primary Investigator: Sean C. Glasgow, MD

Corps Level Operational Art in Vietnam: A Study of II Field Force Commanders during Major Named Operations

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-05-23

South Vietnam and the bombing campaign falling short of its desired effects, options generated by the administration’s Whiz Kids or civilian...The Washington Post, 7 July 2009, http://articles.washingtonpost.com (accessed 5 October 2012), The term Whiz Kid refers to young 6...the U.S. Department of Defense by implementing a statistics based management approach. Whiz kid originated from a group or former World War II U.S. Air

Technical Guidance for Conducting ASVAB Validation/Standards Studies in the U.S. Navy

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-02-01

the criterion), we can compute the variance of X in the unrestricted group, 2xS , and in the restricted (selected) group, 2 xs . 3 In contrast, we...well as the selected group, 2 xs . We also know the variance of Y in the selected group, 2ys , and the correlation of X and Y in the selected...and AS. Five levels of selection ratio (1.0, .8, .6, .4, and .2) and eight sample sizes (50, 75, 100, 150, 225, 350 , 500, and 800) were considered

Use of activated protein C has no avail in the early phase of acute pancreatitis.

PubMed

Akay, Sinan; Ozutemiz, Omer; Yenisey, Cigdem; Simsek, Nilufer Genc; Yuce, Gul; Batur, Yucel

2008-01-01

Sepsis and acute pancreatitis have similar pathogenetic mechanisms that have been implicated in the progression of multiple organ failure. Drotrecogin alfa, an analogue of endogenous protein C, reduces mortality in clinical sepsis. Our objective was to evaluate the early therapeutic effects of activated protein C (APC) in a rat model of acute necrotizing pancreatitis. Acute necrotizing pancreatitis was induced by intraductal injection of 5% Na taurocholate. Hourly bolus injections of saline or recombinant human APC (drotrecogin alfa) was commenced via femoral venous catheter four hours after the induction of acute pancreatitis. The experiment was terminated nine hours after pancreatitis induction. Animals in group one (n=20) had a sham operation while animals in group two (n=20) received saline and animals in group three (n=20) received drotrecogin alfa boluses after acute pancreatitis induction. Pancreatic tissue for histopathologic scores and myeloperoxidase, glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase activities were collected, and blood for serum amylase, urea, creatinine, and interleukin-6 measurements was withdrawn. Serum amylase activity was significantly lower in the APC treated group than the untreated group (17,435+/-432 U/L vs. 27,426+/-118 U/L, respectively). While the serum interleukin-6 concentration in the APC untreated group was significantly lower than the treated group (970+/-323 pg/mL vs. 330+/-368 pg/mL, respectively). In the early phase of acute pancreatitis, drotrecogin alfa treatment did not result in a significant improvement in oxidative and inflammatory parameters or renal functions.

Structural requirements for protein-catalyzed annealing of U4 and U6 RNAs during di-snRNP assembly

PubMed Central

Didychuk, Allison L.; Montemayor, Eric J.; Brow, David A.; Butcher, Samuel E.

2016-01-01

Base-pairing of U4 and U6 snRNAs during di-snRNP assembly requires large-scale remodeling of RNA structure that is chaperoned by the U6 snRNP protein Prp24. We investigated the mechanism of U4/U6 annealing in vitro using an assay that enables visualization of ribonucleoprotein complexes and faithfully recapitulates known in vivo determinants for the process. We find that annealing, but not U6 RNA binding, is highly dependent on the electropositive character of a 20 Å-wide groove on the surface of Prp24. During annealing, we observe the formation of a stable ternary complex between U4 and U6 RNAs and Prp24, indicating that displacement of Prp24 in vivo requires additional factors. Mutations that stabilize the U6 ‘telestem’ helix increase annealing rates by up to 15-fold, suggesting that telestem formation is rate-limiting for U4/U6 pairing. The Lsm2–8 complex, which binds adjacent to the telestem at the 3′ end of U6, provides a comparable rate enhancement. Collectively, these data identify domains of the U6 snRNP that are critical for one of the first steps in assembly of the megaDalton U4/U6.U5 tri-snRNP complex, and lead to a dynamic model for U4/U6 pairing that involves a striking degree of evolved cooperativity between protein and RNA. PMID:26673715

Randomized controlled trial of uncut Roux-en-Y vs Billroth II reconstruction after distal gastrectomy for gastric cancer: Which technique is better for avoiding biliary reflux and gastritis?

PubMed

Yang, Dong; He, Liang; Tong, Wei-Hua; Jia, Zhi-Fang; Su, Tong-Rong; Wang, Quan

2017-09-14

To identify which technique is better for avoiding biliary reflux and gastritis between uncut Roux-en-Y and Billroth II reconstruction. A total of 158 patients who underwent laparoscopy-assisted distal gastrectomy for gastric cancer at the First Hospital of Jilin University (Changchun, China) between February 2015 and February 2016 were randomized into two groups: uncut Roux-en-Y (group U) and Billroth II group (group B). Postoperative complications and relevant clinical data were compared between the two groups. According to the randomization table, each group included 79 patients. There was no significant difference in postoperative complications between groups U and B (7.6% vs 10.1%, P = 0.576). During the postoperative period, group U stomach pH values were lower than 7 and group B pH values were higher than 7. After 1 year of follow-up, group B presented a higher incidence of biliary reflux and alkaline gastritis. However, histopathology did not show a significant difference in gastritis diagnosis ( P = 0.278), and the amount of residual food and gain of weight between the groups were also not significantly different. At 3 mo there was no evidence of partial recanalization of uncut staple line, but at 1 year the incidence was 13%. Compared with Billroth II reconstruction, uncut Roux-en-Y reconstruction is secure and feasible, and can effectively reduce the incidence of alkaline reflux, residual gastritis, and heartburn. Despite the incidence of recanalization, uncut Roux-en-Y should be widely applied.

Changes in Oxidative Stress Markers and Biological Markers of Muscle Injury with Aging at Rest and in Response to an Exhaustive Exercise

PubMed Central

Bouzid, Mohamed Amine; Hammouda, Omar; Matran, Regis; Robin, Sophie; Fabre, Claudine

2014-01-01

Purpose The aim of this study was to evaluate whether oxidative stress markers and biomarkers of muscle injury would be affected by aging at rest and in response to an incremental exhaustive exercise. Methods Fifteen young (20.3±2.8 years) and fifteen older adults (65.1±3.5 years) performed an incremental cycle ergometer test to exhaustion. Before and after exercise, oxidative stress [superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), glutathione reductase (GR), ascorbic acid, α-Tocopherol, malondialdehyde (MDA)] and muscle injury [creatine kinase (CK), lactate deshydrogenase (LDH)] biomarkers were assessed. Results At rest, there was no difference in oxidative stress markers and LDH level between the groups, however CK was significantly higher in the young group than the elderly group (p<0.05). During recovery, in comparison with resting values, a significant increase in SOD (1092±145.9 vs. 1243±98 U/g Hb), GPX (67.4±12.7 vs. 79.2±15.6 U/g Hb) and GR (6.5±0.9 vs. 7.7±0.5 U/g Hb) activities were observed only in the young group (p<0.05). MDA has increased only in the older group (0.54±0.2 vs. 0.79±0.2 µmol/l) (p<0.01). CK increased in both groups (young group: 122.5±22.2 vs. 161.9±18.7 UI/l; older group: 88.8±34.1 vs. 111.1±25.9 UI/l) (p<0.01), however LDH has increased only in the young group (400.5±22.2 vs. 485±18.7 UI/l) (p<0.01) without alteration in the older group (382.8±34.1 vs. 418.5±25.9 UI/l). Conclusions These findings indicate that aging is associated with a decrease in antioxidant efficiency and an increase in oxidative stress damage. Furthermore, older adults would not more susceptible to exercise-induced muscle injury than young people. PMID:24618679

Changes in oxidative stress markers and biological markers of muscle injury with aging at rest and in response to an exhaustive exercise.

PubMed

Bouzid, Mohamed Amine; Hammouda, Omar; Matran, Regis; Robin, Sophie; Fabre, Claudine

2014-01-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether oxidative stress markers and biomarkers of muscle injury would be affected by aging at rest and in response to an incremental exhaustive exercise. Fifteen young (20.3 ± 2.8 years) and fifteen older adults (65.1 ± 3.5 years) performed an incremental cycle ergometer test to exhaustion. Before and after exercise, oxidative stress [superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), glutathione reductase (GR), ascorbic acid, α-Tocopherol, malondialdehyde (MDA)] and muscle injury [creatine kinase (CK), lactate deshydrogenase (LDH)] biomarkers were assessed. At rest, there was no difference in oxidative stress markers and LDH level between the groups, however CK was significantly higher in the young group than the elderly group (p<0.05). During recovery, in comparison with resting values, a significant increase in SOD (1092 ± 145.9 vs. 1243 ± 98 U/g Hb), GPX (67.4 ± 12.7 vs. 79.2 ± 15.6 U/g Hb) and GR (6.5 ± 0.9 vs. 7.7 ± 0.5 U/g Hb) activities were observed only in the young group (p<0.05). MDA has increased only in the older group (0.54 ± 0.2 vs. 0.79 ± 0.2 µmol/l) (p<0.01). CK increased in both groups (young group: 122.5 ± 22.2 vs. 161.9 ± 18.7 UI/l; older group: 88.8 ± 34.1 vs. 111.1 ± 25.9 UI/l) (p<0.01), however LDH has increased only in the young group (400.5 ± 22.2 vs. 485 ± 18.7 UI/l) (p<0.01) without alteration in the older group (382.8 ± 34.1 vs. 418.5 ± 25.9 UI/l). These findings indicate that aging is associated with a decrease in antioxidant efficiency and an increase in oxidative stress damage. Furthermore, older adults would not more susceptible to exercise-induced muscle injury than young people.

Structural evolution of the double perovskites Sr{sub 2}B'UO{sub 6} (B' = Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Zn) upon reduction: Magnetic behavior of the uranium cations

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

Pinacca, R.M., E-mail: rmp@unsl.edu.ar; Viola, M.C.; Pedregosa, J.C.

2011-11-15

Highlights: {yields} Evolution of the double perovskites Sr{sub 2}B'UO{sub 6} upon reduction were studied by XRPD. {yields} Orthorhombic (Pnma) disordered perovskites SrB'{sub 0.5-x}U{sub 0.5+x}O{sub 3} were obtained at 900 {sup o}C. {yields} U{sup 5+/4+} and Zn{sup 2+} cations are distributed at random over the octahedral positions. {yields} AFM ordering for the perovskite with B' = Zn appears below 30 K. -- Abstract: We describe the preparation of five perovskite oxides obtained upon reduction of Sr{sub 2}B'UO{sub 6} (B' = Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Zn) with H{sub 2}/N{sub 2} (5%/95%) at 900 {sup o}C during 8 h, and their structural characterizationmore » by X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD). During the reduction process there is a partial segregation of the elemental metal when B' = Co, Ni, Fe, and the corresponding B'O oxide when B' = Mn, Zn. Whereas the parent, oxygen stoichiometric double perovskites Sr{sub 2}B'UO{sub 6} are long-range ordered concerning B' and U cations. The crystal structures of the reduced phases, SrB'{sub 0.5-x}U{sub 0.5+x}O{sub 3} with 0.37 < x < 0.27, correspond to simple, disordered perovskites; they are orthorhombic, space group Pnma (No. 62), with a full cationic disorder at the B site. Magnetic measurements performed on the phase with B' = Zn, indicate uncompensated antiferromagnetic ordering of the U{sup 5+}/U{sup 4+} sublattice below 30 K.« less

[Curative effect analysis of bile reinfusion combined with enteral nutrition support before surgery of hilar cholangiocarcinoma].

PubMed

Song, P; Mao, L; Bian, X J; Zhou, T; Fan, Y Y; Zhang, J; Xie, M; Qiu, Y D

2018-05-01

Objective: To investigate the clinical effect of bile reinfusion combined with enteral nutrition support before surgery for hilar cholangiocarcinoma. Methods: A retrospective analysis of patients with hilar cholangiocarcinoma who underwent surgical treatment at Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Hepato-biliary-pancreatic Surgery Department from July 2010 to August 2017 was completed.A total of 52 cases were finally enrolled in our study.All the patients included, on the basis of whether they received preoperative drainage and bile reinfusion, were divided into non-drainage group( n =15) and drainage group( n =37). Differences of clinical indicators, including operation time, intraoperative bleeding and serum liver function index levels at day 1, 3, 7 postoperative, postoperative complications(liver failure, biliary fistula, pleural effusion, peritoneal effusion, abdominal cavity infection, death in hospital), tumor classification, R0 resection, postoperative hospitalization time between the 2 groups were analyzed. At the same time, in the drainage group, patients were divided into non-enteral nutrition subgroup( n =13) and enteral nutrition subgroup( n =24) according to whether they received enteral nutrition before operation. The normal distribution data of the group was statistically analyzed by independent sample t test, the non-normal distribution data of the group was statistically analyzed by rank-sum test. The count data was statistically analyzed by non-calibration and correction of the square test. Results: There was no statistically significant difference in general infomation such as age, gender, and serum liver function between non-drainage group and drainage group( P >0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in general information such as age, gender, and serum liver function between non-enteral nutrition group and enteral nutrition group( P >0.05). The rate of vascular resection and reconstruction(33.3%) and operating time(10.8(2.2)h) in drainage group were both higher than those in non-drainage group(6.7% and 8.3(3.0)h), the differences were both statistically significant(χ(2)=4.397, Z =1.595; both P <0.05). The level of AST at the 7th day after surgery in drainage group(32.8(17.3)U/L) was significantly lower than that in non-drainage group(55.0(64.7)U/L), the difference was statistically significant( Z =-2.212, P <0.05). The level of TBil at 1st day after surgery in drainage group(43.6(91.2)μmol/L) was lower than that in non-drainage group(91.2(188.4)μmol/L), the difference was statistically significant( Z =-2.150, P <0.05). The rate of pancreatoduodenectomy(25.0%) and average operating time(11.1(1.3)h) in the enteral nutrition group were both higher than those in the non-enteral nutrition group(0, 9.0(2.6)h). The differences were both statistically significant(χ(2)=3.879, Z =-2.693; P <0.05). The average level of AST at the 1st day after surgery in enteral nutrition group(396.4(268.3)U/L) was significantly lower than that in non-enteral nutrition group(642.5(341.1)U/L), the difference was statistically significant( Z =-2.483, P <0.05). The average level of TBil at the 1st, 3th day after surgery in enteral nutrition group(38.8(21.5)μmol/L and 30.0(25.6)μmol/L) were both lower than those in non-enteral nutrition group(60.9(75.2)μmol/L and 46.5(50.0)μmol/L), the differences were both statistically significant( Z =-2.416, -2.026; P <0.05). The level of CRP at 1st, 3th day after surgery((41.9±31.1)mg/L, (50.8±31.4)mg/L)in enteral nutrition subgroup was lower than that in non-enteral nutrition subgroup((64.4±33.6)mg/L, (74.1±35.3)mg/L), the differences were both statistically significant( t =1.456, 1.675; P <0.05). Conclusion: Based on the present study , there is no effective improvement on postoperative recovery using bile reinfusion combined with nutrition support before R0 resection of hilar cholangiocarcinoma.

Exercise-induced changes in insulin action are associated with ACE gene polymorphisms in older adults.

PubMed

Dengel, Donald R; Brown, Michael D; Ferrell, Robert E; Reynolds, Thomas H; Supiano, Mark A

2002-10-29

We evaluated the association between insulin resistance and the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) insertion (I)/deletion (D) gene polymorphism in a group of older hypertensive subjects (63 +/- 1 yr, n = 35) before and after a 6-mo aerobic exercise program (AEX). Insulin sensitivity index (S(I)), assessed by the frequently sampled intravenous glucose tolerance test, was significantly (P = 0.0001) increased following AEX. In addition, there was a significant (P = 0.001) interaction between AEX and ACE genotype. S(I) increased significantly (P < 0.05) more in those with the II (2.5 +/- 0.8 microU x 10(-4) x min(-1) x ml(-1)) ACE genotype compared with both the DD and ID (0.7 +/- 0.1 and 0.7 +/- 0.2 microU x 10(-4) x min(-1) x ml(-1), respectively) ACE genotypes. Similarly, there was a significant (P = 0.036) decrease in the acute insulin response to glucose (AIR(G)) and a significant (P = 0.05) interaction between AEX and ACE genotype. AIR(G) decreased significantly (P < 0.05) more in those with the II (-17.6 +/- 5.6 mU/ml) ACE genotype compared with both the DD and ID (-1.4 +/- 6.2 and -3.6 +/- 2.5 mU/ml) ACE genotypes. In conclusion, we demonstrated that those older hypertensives with the ACE II genotype have the greatest improvement in insulin action following AEX.

F-theory on all toric hypersurface fibrations and its Higgs branches

DOE PAGES

Klevers, Denis; Mayorga Pena, Damian Kaloni; Oehlmann, Paul-Konstantin; ...

2015-01-27

We consider F-theory compactifications on genus-one fibered Calabi-Yau manifolds with their fibers realized as hypersurfaces in the toric varieties associated to the 16 reflexive 2D polyhedra. We present a base-independent analysis of the codimension one, two and three singularities of these fibrations. We use these geometric results to determine the gauge groups, matter representations, 6D matter multiplicities and 4D Yukawa couplings of the corresponding effective theories. All these theories have a non-trivial gauge group and matter content. We explore the network of Higgsings relating these theories. Such Higgsings geometrically correspond to extremal transitions induced by blow-ups in the 2D toric varieties. We recover the 6D effective theories of all 16 toric hypersurface fibrations by repeatedly Higgsing the theories that exhibit Mordell-Weil torsion. We find that the three Calabi-Yau manifolds without section, whose fibers are given by the toric hypersurfaces inmore » $$\\mathbb P^{2}$$, $$\\mathbb P^{1}$$ × $$\\mathbb P^{1}$$ and the recently studied $$\\mathbb P^{2}$$ (1,1, 2) , yield F-theory realizations of SUGRA theories with discrete gauge groups $$\\mathbb Z$$ 3, $$\\mathbb Z$$ 2 and $$\\mathbb Z$$ 4.This opens up a whole new arena for model building with discrete global symmetries in F-theory. In these three manifolds, we also find codimension two I 2-fibers supporting matter charged only under these discrete gauge groups. Their 6D matter multiplicities are computed employing ideal techniques and the associated Jacobian fibrations. Here, we also show that the Jacobian of the biquadric fibration has one rational section, yielding one U(1)-gauge field in F-theory. Furthermore, the elliptically fibered Calabi-Yau manifold based on dP 1 has a U(1)-gauge field induced by a non-toric rational section. In this model, we find the first F-theory realization of matter with U(1)-charge q = 3.« less

Prevalence of endocrine disorders in morbidly obese patients and the effects of bariatric surgery on endocrine and metabolic parameters.

PubMed

Janković, Draženka; Wolf, Peter; Anderwald, Christian-Heinz; Winhofer, Yvonne; Promintzer-Schifferl, Miriam; Hofer, Astrid; Langer, Felix; Prager, Gerhard; Ludvik, Bernhard; Gessl, Alois; Luger, Anton; Krebs, Michael

2012-01-01

Several endocrine abnormalities, including hypothyroidism and Cushing's syndrome (CS), are considered as causative factors of obesity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of endocrine disorders and obesity-associated co-morbidities, as well as the impact of substantial weight loss. Screening was performed in 433 consecutive morbidly obese patients (age 41 ± 12 years; BMI 47 ± 6.9 kg/m(2); women 76%). A 1-mg dexamethasone suppression test (1-mg DST) was conducted to exclude CS, and thyrotropin (TSH) was measured to exclude hypothyroidism. Insulin sensitivity was estimated from oral glucose tolerance tests employing the Clamp-like index. Examinations were carried out at baseline, as well as at 6 and 12 months postoperatively. The prevalence of CS was below 0.6%. Before surgery, TSH was elevated compared to an age- and sex-matched normal weight control group (2.4 ± 1.2 vs. 1.5 ± 0.7 μU/ml; p < 0.001). The NCEP criteria of metabolic syndrome (MetS) were fulfilled by 39.5% of the patients. Impaired glucose tolerance and diabetes mellitus were observed in 23.5% and 22.6%, respectively. Seventy-two percent were insulin resistant. During follow-up, weight (BMI 47 ± 6.9 vs. 36 ± 6.4 vs. 32 ± 6.6 kg/m(2); p < 0.001) and TSH decreased significantly (2.4 ± 1.2 vs. 1.8 ± 1.0 vs. 1.8 ± 1.0 μU/ml; p < 0.001). Serum cortisol was higher in the MetS(+)-group compared to the MetS(-)-group (15.0 ± 6.3 vs. 13.5 ± 6.3 μg/dl; p = 0.003). CS appears to be a rare cause of morbid obesity. Normalization of slightly elevated thyrotropin after weight loss suggests that obesity causes TSH elevation rather than the reverse.

Permutation-symmetric three-particle hyper-spherical harmonics based on the S3 ⊗ SO(3)rot ⊂ O(2)⊗SO(3)rot ⊂ U(3)⋊S2 ⊂ O(6) subgroup chain

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Salom, Igor; Dmitrašinović, V.

2017-07-01

We construct the three-body permutation symmetric hyperspherical harmonics to be used in the non-relativistic three-body Schrödinger equation in three spatial dimensions (3D). We label the state vectors according to the S3 ⊗ SO(3)rot ⊂ O (2) ⊗ SO(3)rot ⊂ U (3) ⋊S2 ⊂ O (6) subgroup chain, where S3 is the three-body permutation group and S2 is its two element subgroup containing transposition of first two particles, O (2) is the ;democracy transformation;, or ;kinematic rotation; group for three particles; SO(3)rot is the 3D rotation group, and U (3) , O (6) are the usual Lie groups. We discuss the good quantum numbers implied by the above chain of algebras, as well as their relation to the S3 permutation properties of the harmonics, particularly in view of the SO(3)rot ⊂ SU (3) degeneracy. We provide a definite, practically implementable algorithm for the calculation of harmonics with arbitrary finite integer values of the hyper angular momentum K, and show an explicit example of this construction in a specific case with degeneracy, as well as tables of K ≤ 6 harmonics. All harmonics are expressed as homogeneous polynomials in the Jacobi vectors (λ , ρ) with coefficients given as algebraic numbers unless the ;operator method; is chosen for the lifting of the SO(3)rot ⊂ SU (3) multiplicity and the dimension of the degenerate subspace is greater than four - in which case one must resort to numerical diagonalization; the latter condition is not met by any K ≤ 15 harmonic, or by any L ≤ 7 harmonic with arbitrary K. We also calculate a certain type of matrix elements (the Gaunt integrals of products of three harmonics) in two ways: 1) by explicit evaluation of integrals and 2) by reduction to known SU (3) Clebsch-Gordan coefficients. In this way we complete the calculation of the ingredients sufficient for the solution to the quantum-mechanical three-body bound state problem.

Isolation and characterization of a uranium(VI)-nitride triple bond

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

King, David M.; Tuna, Floriana; McInnes, Eric J. L.; McMaster, Jonathan; Lewis, William; Blake, Alexander J.; Liddle, Stephen T.

2013-06-01

The nature and extent of covalency in uranium bonding is still unclear compared with that of transition metals, and there is great interest in studying uranium-ligand multiple bonds. Although U=O and U=NR double bonds (where R is an alkyl group) are well-known analogues to transition-metal oxo and imido complexes, the uranium(VI)-nitride triple bond has long remained a synthetic target in actinide chemistry. Here, we report the preparation of a uranium(VI)-nitride triple bond. We highlight the importance of (1) ancillary ligand design, (2) employing mild redox reactions instead of harsh photochemical methods that decompose transiently formed uranium(VI) nitrides, (3) an electrostatically stabilizing sodium ion during nitride installation, (4) selecting the right sodium sequestering reagent, (5) inner versus outer sphere oxidation and (6) stability with respect to the uranium oxidation state. Computational analyses suggest covalent contributions to U≡N triple bonds that are surprisingly comparable to those of their group 6 transition-metal nitride counterparts.

Ring opening polymerisation of lactide with uranium(iv) and cerium(iv) phosphinoaryloxide complexes.

PubMed

Sinclair, Fern; Hlina, Johann A; Wells, Jordann A L; Shaver, Michael P; Arnold, Polly L

2017-08-22

The C 3 -symmetric uranium(iv) and cerium(iv) complexes Me 3 SiOM(OAr P ) 3 , M = U (1), Ce (2), OAr P = OC 6 H 2 -6- t Bu-4-Me-2-PPh 2 , have been prepared and the difference between these 4f and 5f congeners as initiators for the ring opening polymerisation (ROP) of l-lactide is compared. The poorly controlled reactivity of the homoleptic analogue U(OAr P ) 4 (3) demonstrates the importance of the M-OSiMe 3 initiating group. The incorporation of a nickel atom in 1 to form the U-Ni heterobimetallic complex Me 3 SiOU(OAr P ) 3 Ni (4) may be the first example of the use of the inverse trans influence to switch the reactivity of a complex. This would imply the formation of the U-Ni bond strengthens the U-OSiMe 3 bond to such an extent that the ROP catalysis is switched off. Changing the conditions to immortal polymerisation dramatically increases polymerisation rates, and switches the order, with the Ce complex now faster than the U analogue, suggesting ligand protonolysis to afford a more open coordination sphere. For the ROP of rac-lactide, uranium complex 1 promotes heterotacticity at the highest levels of stereocontrol yet reported for an actinide complex.

Synthesis and X-ray Crystallography of [Mg(H2O)6][AnO2(C2H5COO)3]2 (An = U, Np, or Pu).

PubMed

Serezhkin, Viktor N; Grigoriev, Mikhail S; Abdulmyanov, Aleksey R; Fedoseev, Aleksandr M; Savchenkov, Anton V; Serezhkina, Larisa B

2016-08-01

Synthesis and X-ray crystallography of single crystals of [Mg(H2O)6][AnO2(C2H5COO)3]2, where An = U (I), Np (II), or Pu (III), are reported. Compounds I-III are isostructural and crystallize in the trigonal crystal system. The structures of I-III are built of hydrated magnesium cations [Mg(H2O)6](2+) and mononuclear [AnO2(C2H5COO)3](-) complexes, which belong to the AB(01)3 crystallochemical group of uranyl complexes (A = AnO2(2+), B(01) = C2H5COO(-)). Peculiarities of intermolecular interactions in the structures of [Mg(H2O)6][UO2(L)3]2 complexes depending on the carboxylate ion L (acetate, propionate, or n-butyrate) are investigated using the method of molecular Voronoi-Dirichlet polyhedra. Actinide contraction in the series of U(VI)-Np(VI)-Pu(VI) in compounds I-III is reflected in a decrease in the mean An═O bond lengths and in the volume and sphericity degree of Voronoi-Dirichlet polyhedra of An atoms.

Study of the Army Helicopter Design Hover Criterion Using Temperature and Pressure Altitude

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-09-01

the Advanced Scout Helicopter Special Study Group reexamined the design point requirement. They recommended increasing the design point pressure...other combinations group between these two extremes. Ultimately, the design point for a helicopter has to be determined by the user of the...helicopter designs . 6. References Aviation Agency. 1972. “Heavy Lift Helicopter (HLH) Concept Formulation Study (U)”, Action Control Number 2958

How America Can Look Within to Achieve Energy Security and Reduce Global Warming

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-09-01

Linear Accelerator Center, Stanford University Maxine Savitz The Advisory Group Daniel Sperling University of California, Davis Study Group Members...Development Mr. Don Von Dollen, Electric Power Research Institute Mr. Anant Vyas, Argonne National Laboratory Dr. E.D. Tate, General Motors...other nation on Earth except China [EIA, 2007b]. Source: Lutsey and Sperling , 2005 Figure 6 U.S. fuel economy vs. fuel efficiency Passenger cars

[The effect of diethylstilbestrol on inducing abdominal cryptorchidism and relevant genetic expression in rats].

PubMed

Zhang, Lin; Zheng, Xin-min; Zheng, Hang; Yang, Zhi-wei; Li, Shi-wen

2009-05-01

To study the effect of diethylstilbestrol (DES) at different doses on transabdominal testicular descent in rats and the expression of INSL3 in the testis and HOXA10 in the gubernaculum. Fifty E13.5 (embryonic day 13.5) pregnant female SD rats were randomly divided into five groups that received a subcutaneous injection of DMSO, 2.5, 5.0, 10.0 and 20.0 mg/kg DES (group A, B, C, D and E), respectively. Male offspring were killed at E19.5, and then fetal mortality, the degree of transabdominal testicular ascent (DTA) was determined by a stereomicroscope. The mRNA expressions of INSL3 in the testis and HOXA10 in the gubernaculum were determined by RT-PCR. The expression of INSL3 protein was determined by Western blotting. Male fetal mortality in group A, B, C, D, and E were 3.57%, 6.90%, 12.00%, 19.23% and 36.36%, respectively, which showed a dose-effect relationship between DES and the male fatal mortality (r=0.999, P<0.01). DTA in group B, C, D and E were (23.7+/-1.7) U, (38.8+/-1.9) U, (49.3+/-1.8) U and (58.6+/-2.1) U that were significantly larger than that in group A [(8.5+/-1.3) U] (q=46.12, 88.53, 120.44 and 141.37, respectively, P<0.01). There was also a dose-effect relationship between DES and DTA. In group B, C, D, and E, the expression of INSL3 mRNA were 0.9570+/-0.1490, 0.6760+/-0.1380, 0.0170+/-0.0040 and 0.0013+/-0.0003, respectively; the expressions of INSL3 protein were 0.8360+/-0.1520, 0.5310+/-0.1070, 0.0140+/-0.0020 and 0.0011+/-0.0003, respectively, which were significantly larger than the expression of INSL3 mRNA (1.801+/-0.126) and INSL3 protein (1.612+/-0.134) in group A (qmRNA=40.4840, 52.4402, 83.1585 and 82.0582, respectively, and qprotein=38.6151, 52.2747, 77.2756 and 76.1983, respectively, P<0.01). The expression of HOXA10 mRNA in group A, B, C, D, and E were 0.945+/-0.125, 0.940+/-0.119, 0.656+/-0.115, 0.544+/-0.118 and 0.463+/-0.114, respectively. Compared with the expression of HOXA10 mRNA in group A, the expression of group B was not significantly different (q=0.2213, P>0.05), those in other groups were down-regulated significantly (q=12.4304, 17.2477 and 20.2789, respectively, P<0.01). DES inhibited transabdominal testicular descent dose-dependently via down-regulating the expression of INSL3. HOXA10 may play no role in low-dosage DES induced intra-abdominal cryptorchidism, but down-regulated HOXA10 mRNA was involved in high-dosage DES induced ones.

National and Gender Measurement Invariance of the Utrecht-Management of Identity Commitments Scale (U-MICS): A 10-Nation Study With University Students.

PubMed

Crocetti, Elisabetta; Cieciuch, Jan; Gao, Cheng-Hai; Klimstra, Theo; Lin, Ching-Ling; Matos, Paula Mena; Morsünbül, Ümit; Negru, Oana; Sugimura, Kazumi; Zimmermann, Grégoire; Meeus, Wim

2015-12-01

The purpose of this study was to examine the psychometric properties of the Utrecht-Management of Identity Commitments Scale (U-MICS), a self-report measure aimed at assessing identity processes of commitment, in-depth exploration, and reconsideration of commitment. We tested its factor structure in university students from a large array of cultural contexts, including 10 nations located in Europe (i.e., Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, and Switzerland), Middle East (i.e., Turkey), and Asia (i.e., China, Japan, and Taiwan). Furthermore, we tested national and gender measurement invariance. Participants were 6,118 (63.2% females) university students aged from 18 to 25 years (Mage = 20.91 years). Results indicated that the three-factor structure of the U-MICS fitted well in the total sample, in each national group, and in gender groups. Furthermore, national and gender measurement invariance were established. Thus, the U-MICS can be fruitfully applied to study identity in university students from various Western and non-Western contexts. © The Author(s) 2015.

The Relationship Between Dietary Acculturation and Type 2 Diabetes Risk Among Asian Indians in the U.S.

PubMed

Venkatesh, Sumathi; Conner, Thomas; Song, Won O; Olson, Beth H; Weatherspoon, Lorraine J

2017-04-01

Asian Indians have a high prevalence of type 2 diabetes in the U.S. (17.4-29 %). This study examined the relationship between dietary acculturation of Asian Indians in the U.S. and their future risk for type 2 diabetes. A validated Asian Indian Dietary Acculturation Measure (AIDAM) and the Finnish Diabetes Risk Score (FINDRISC) were completed by 153 Asian Indians in the U.S. via a cross-sectional web-survey. Correlations and relative risk ratios were used to examine the association between AIDAM and FINDRISC. A significantly larger proportion of Non-Indian Oriented participants (44.7 %) had higher FINDRISC scores (scores 7-26) compared to the Asian Indian Oriented group (27.9 %) (p = .024), and also had increased relative predictive risk for type 2 diabetes (relative risk ratio = 1.6). A positive association between dietary acculturation and diabetes risk was evident in our sample, which highlights the importance of assessing dietary acculturation in non-native groups when investigating type 2 diabetes risk factors.

Lower sulfurtransferase detoxification rates of cyanide in konzo-A tropical spastic paralysis linked to cassava cyanogenic poisoning.

PubMed

Kambale, K J; Ali, E R; Sadiki, N H; Kayembe, K P; Mvumbi, L G; Yandju, D L; Boivin, M J; Boss, G R; Stadler, D D; Lambert, W E; Lasarev, M R; Okitundu, L A; Mumba Ngoyi, D; Banea, J P; Tshala-Katumbay, D D

2017-03-01

Using a matched case-control design, we sought to determine whether the odds of konzo, a distinct spastic paraparesis associated with food (cassava) cyanogenic exposure in the tropics, were associated with lower cyanide detoxification rates (CDR) and malnutrition. Children with konzo (N=122, 5-17 years of age) were age- and sex-matched with presumably healthy controls (N=87) and assessed for motor and cognition performances, cyanogenic exposure, nutritional status, and cyanide detoxification rates (CDR). Cyanogenic exposure was ascertained by thiocyanate (SCN) concentrations in plasma (P-SCN) and urine (U-SCN). Children with a height-for-age z-score (HAZNCHS)<-2 were classified as nutritionally stunted. CDR was measured as time required to convert cyanide to SCN, and expressed as ms/μmol SCN/mg protein or as mmolSCN/ml plasma/min. Mean (SD) U-SCN in children with konzo was 521.9 (353.6) μmol/l and was, significantly higher than 384.6 (223.7) μmol/l in those without konzo. Conditional regression analysis of data for age- and sex- matched case-control pairs showed that konzo was associated with stunting (OR: 5.8; 95% CI: 2.7-12.8; p<0.01; N=83 paired groups) and higher U-SCN (OR: 1.1; 95% CI: 1.02-1.20 per 50-μmol increase in U-SCN; p=0.02; N=47 paired groups). After adjusting for stunting and U-SCN, the odds of developing konzo was reduced by 63% (95% CI: 11-85%, p=0.03; N=41 paired groups) for each 5mmol SCN/(ml plasma/min)-increase in CDR. Linear regression analysis indicated a significant association between BOT-2 or KABC-II scores and both the HAZNCHS z-score and the U-SCN concentration, but not the CDR. Our findings provide evidence in support of interventions to remove cyanogenic compounds from cassava prior to human consumption or, peharps, enhance the detoxification of cyanide in those relying on the cassava as the main source of food. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Lower sulfurtransferase detoxification rates of cyanide in konzo—A tropical spastic paralysis linked to cassava cyanogenic poisoning

PubMed Central

Kambale, K.J.; Ali, E.R.; Sadiki, N.H.; Kayembe, K.P.; Mvumbi, L.G.; Yandju, D.L.; Boivin, M.J.; Boss, G.R.; Stadler, D.D.; Lambert, W.E.; Lasarev, M.R.; Okitundu, L.A.; Ngoyi, D. Mumba; Banea, J.P.; Tshala-Katumbay, D.D.

2016-01-01

Using a matched case-control design, we sought to determine whether the odds of konzo, a distinct spastic paraparesis associated with food (cassava) cyanogenic exposure in the tropics, were associated with lower cyanide detoxification rates (CDR) and malnutrition. Children with konzo (N= 122, 5–17 years of age) were age- and sex-matched with presumably healthy controls (N = 87) and assessed for motor and cognition performances, cyanogenic exposure, nutritional status, and cyanide detoxification rates (CDR). Cyanogenic exposure was ascertained by thiocyanate (SCN) concentrations in plasma (P-SCN) and urine (U-SCN). Children with a height-for-age z-score (HAZNCHS) < −2 were classified as nutritionally stunted. CDR was measured as time required to convert cyanide to SCN, and expressed as ms/μmol SCN/mg protein or as mmolSCN/ml plasma/min. Mean (SD) U-SCN in children with konzo was 521.9 (353.6) μmol/l and was, significantly higher than 384.6 (223.7) μmol/l in those without konzo. Conditional regression analysis of data for age- and sex- matched case-control pairs showed that konzo was associated with stunting (OR: 5.8; 95% CI: 2.7–12.8; p <0.01; N = 83 paired groups) and higher U-SCN (OR: 1.1; 95% CI: 1.02–1.20 per 50-μmol increase in U-SCN; p = 0.02; N = 47 paired groups). After adjusting for stunting and U-SCN, the odds of developing konzo was reduced by 63% (95% CI: 11–85%, p = 0.03; N = 41 paired groups) for each 5 mmol SCN/(ml plasma/min)-increase in CDR. Linear regression analysis indicated a significant association between BOT-2 or KABC-II scores and both the HAZNCHS z-score and the U-SCN concentration, but not the CDR. Our findings provide evidence in support of interventions to remove cyanogenic compounds from cassava prior to human consumption or, peharps, enhance the detoxification of cyanide in those relying on the cassava as the main source of food. PMID:27246648

Soccer Player Characteristics in English Lower-League Development Programmes: The Relationships between Relative Age, Maturation, Anthropometry and Physical Fitness.

PubMed

Lovell, Ric; Towlson, Chris; Parkin, Guy; Portas, Matt; Vaeyens, Roel; Cobley, Stephen

2015-01-01

The relative age effect (RAE) and its relationships with maturation, anthropometry, and physical performance characteristics were examined across a representative sample of English youth soccer development programmes. Birth dates of 1,212 players, chronologically age-grouped (i.e., U9's-U18's), representing 17 professional clubs (i.e., playing in Leagues 1 & 2) were obtained and categorised into relative age quartiles from the start of the selection year (Q1 = Sep-Nov; Q2 = Dec-Feb; Q3 = Mar-May; Q4 = Jun-Aug). Players were measured for somatic maturation and performed a battery of physical tests to determine aerobic fitness (Multi-Stage Fitness Test [MSFT]), Maximal Vertical Jump (MVJ), sprint (10 & 20m), and agility (T-Test) performance capabilities. Odds ratio's (OR) revealed Q1 players were 5.3 times (95% confidence intervals [CI]: 4.08-6.83) more likely to be selected than Q4's, with a particularly strong RAE bias observed in U9 (OR: 5.56) and U13-U16 squads (OR: 5.45-6.13). Multivariate statistical models identified few between quartile differences in anthropometric and fitness characteristics, and confirmed chronological age-group and estimated age at peak height velocity (APHV) as covariates. Assessment of practical significance using magnitude-based inferences demonstrated body size advantages in relatively older players (Q1 vs. Q4) that were very-likely small (Effect Size [ES]: 0.53-0.57), and likely to very-likely moderate (ES: 0.62-0.72) in U12 and U14 squads, respectively. Relatively older U12-U14 players also demonstrated small advantages in 10m (ES: 0.31-0.45) and 20m sprint performance (ES: 0.36-0.46). The data identify a strong RAE bias at the entry-point to English soccer developmental programmes. RAE was also stronger circa-PHV, and relatively older players demonstrated anaerobic performance advantages during the pubescent period. Talent selectors should consider motor function and maturation status assessments to avoid premature and unwarranted drop-out of soccer players within youth development programmes.

Soccer Player Characteristics in English Lower-League Development Programmes: The Relationships between Relative Age, Maturation, Anthropometry and Physical Fitness

PubMed Central

Lovell, Ric; Towlson, Chris; Parkin, Guy; Portas, Matt; Vaeyens, Roel; Cobley, Stephen

2015-01-01

The relative age effect (RAE) and its relationships with maturation, anthropometry, and physical performance characteristics were examined across a representative sample of English youth soccer development programmes. Birth dates of 1,212 players, chronologically age-grouped (i.e., U9’s-U18’s), representing 17 professional clubs (i.e., playing in Leagues 1 & 2) were obtained and categorised into relative age quartiles from the start of the selection year (Q1 = Sep-Nov; Q2 = Dec-Feb; Q3 = Mar-May; Q4 = Jun-Aug). Players were measured for somatic maturation and performed a battery of physical tests to determine aerobic fitness (Multi-Stage Fitness Test [MSFT]), Maximal Vertical Jump (MVJ), sprint (10 & 20m), and agility (T-Test) performance capabilities. Odds ratio’s (OR) revealed Q1 players were 5.3 times (95% confidence intervals [CI]: 4.08–6.83) more likely to be selected than Q4’s, with a particularly strong RAE bias observed in U9 (OR: 5.56) and U13-U16 squads (OR: 5.45–6.13). Multivariate statistical models identified few between quartile differences in anthropometric and fitness characteristics, and confirmed chronological age-group and estimated age at peak height velocity (APHV) as covariates. Assessment of practical significance using magnitude-based inferences demonstrated body size advantages in relatively older players (Q1 vs. Q4) that were very-likely small (Effect Size [ES]: 0.53–0.57), and likely to very-likely moderate (ES: 0.62–0.72) in U12 and U14 squads, respectively. Relatively older U12-U14 players also demonstrated small advantages in 10m (ES: 0.31–0.45) and 20m sprint performance (ES: 0.36–0.46). The data identify a strong RAE bias at the entry-point to English soccer developmental programmes. RAE was also stronger circa-PHV, and relatively older players demonstrated anaerobic performance advantages during the pubescent period. Talent selectors should consider motor function and maturation status assessments to avoid premature and unwarranted drop-out of soccer players within youth development programmes. PMID:26331852

Combining group-based exposure therapy with prolonged exposure to treat U.S. Vietnam veterans with PTSD: a case study.

PubMed

Ready, David J; Vega, Edward M; Worley, Virginia; Bradley, Bekh

2012-10-01

Group-based exposure therapy (GBET) of 16-week duration was developed to treat combat-related posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and decreased PTSD symptoms in 3 noncontrolled open trials with low attrition (0%-5%). Group-based exposure therapy has not produced as much PTSD symptom reduction as Prolonged Exposure (PE) within a U.S. Veterans Affairs PTSD treatment program, although PE had more dropouts (20%). This pilot study was of a model that combined key elements of GBET with components of PE in an effort to increase the effectiveness of a group-based treatment while reducing its length and maintaining low attrition. Twice per week, 8 Vietnam combat veterans with PTSD were treated for 12 weeks, with an intervention that included 2 within-group war trauma presentations per participant, 6 PE style individual imaginal exposure (IE) sessions per participant, daily listening to recorded IE sessions, and daily in vivo exposure exercises. All completed treatment and showed Significant reductions on all measures of PTSD with large effect sizes; 7 participants no longer met PTSD criteria on treating clinician administered interviews and a self-report measure at posttreatment. Significant reductions in depression with large effect sizes and moderate reductions in PTSD-related cognitions were also found. Most gains were maintained 6 months posttreatment. Published 2012. This article is a US Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.

Inventory of methane emissions from U.S. cattle

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Westberg, H.; Lamb, B.; Johnson, K. A.; Huyler, M.

2001-01-01

Many countries, including the United States, are in the process of inventorying greenhouse gas emissions as a prerequisite for designing control strategies. We have developed a measurement-based inventory of methane emissions from cattle in the United States. Methane emission factors were established for the major livestock groups using an internal tracer method. The groups studied included cows, replacement heifers, slaughter cattle, calves, and bulls in the beef sector and cows plus replacement heifers in the dairy industry. Since methane emission is dependent on the quality and quantity of feed, diets were chosen that are representative of the feed regimes utilized by producers in the United States. Regional cattle populations, obtained from U.S. Department of Agriculture statistics, were combined with the methane emission factors to yield regional emission estimates. The methane totals from the five regions were then summed to give a U.S. inventory of cattle emissions for 1990, 1992, 1994, 1996, and 1998. Annual releases ranged from 6.50 Tg in 1990 to a high of 6.98 Tg in 1996. On a regional scale the North Central region of the United States had the largest methane emissions from livestock followed by the South Central and the West. The beef cow group released the most methane (˜2.5 Tg yr-1) followed by slaughter cattle (˜1.7 Tg yr-1) and dairy cows at about 1.5 Tg yr-1. Methane released by cattle in the United States contributes about 11% of the global cattle source.

Solid state vibrational spectroscopy of anhydrous lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF6)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kock, L. D.; Lekgoathi, M. D. S.; Crouse, P. L.; Vilakazi, B. M.

2012-10-01

Raman and infrared studies of solid anhydrous lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF6) have been carried out. The studies were complemented by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and Thermogravimetric (TG) analysis techniques. The results indicate that when solid LiPF6 is studied in a strictly anhydrous environment, more consistent thermal stability data can be obtained. TG analysis, using a scan rate of 10 °C min-1, indicate the onset of thermal decomposition of the anhydrous LiPF6 occurring at about 134.84 °C while the partially hydrolysed compound starts at 114.46 °C. The Raman spectra of anhydrous MPF6 (M = Li+, Na+ and K+) are best interpreted in terms of a cubic space group Fm3m(Ohs), (ZB = 1), giving rise to 21 vibrational modes (A1g(R)+Eg(R)+T1g+T2g(R)+3T1u(1R)+T2u) and as such, LiPF6 may be considered isostructural with NaPF6 and KPF6. Crystal symmetry distortions in the anhydrous LiPF6 give rise additional bands in the Raman spectrum due to T1u infrared active modes and the ν1 (A1g) Raman band appears in the infrared spectrum in violation of the mutual exclusion selection rule for centro-symmetric sites. When these observations are considered, the Raman spectrum of LiPF6 is similar to those of NaPF6 and KPF6, with observations of the expected shifts due to cation size and/or electronegativity effects.

Elevated circulating IL-1beta and TNF-alpha, and unaltered IL-6 in first-trimester pregnancies complicated by threatened abortion with an adverse outcome.

PubMed

Vitoratos, Nicolaos; Papadias, Constantinos; Economou, Emmanuel; Makrakis, Evangelos; Panoulis, Constantinos; Creatsas, George

2006-01-01

The purpose of the present study was to examine the profile of selected proinflammatory cytokines in maternal serum of first-trimester pregnancies complicated by threatened abortion (TACP) and its relevance to obstetric outcome. Serum levels of Th1-type cytokines interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), and Th2-type cytokine interleukin 6 (IL-6) were measured, by ELISA, in 22 women with TACP and adverse outcome at admission (group A) and compared with the corresponding levels of 31 gestational age-matched women with TACP and successful outcome at admission (group B1) and discharge (group B2) and 22 gestational age-matched women with first-trimester uncomplicated pregnancy (group C) who served as controls. Mann-Whitney U or Wilcoxon test was applied as appropriate to compare differences between groups. IL-1beta and TNF-alpha were detected with significantly higher levels in group A, compared to all other groups. On the contrary, IL-6 levels were detected with no significant difference among all the other groups studied. It is concluded that in first-trimester TACP with adverse outcome, a distinct immune response, as reflected by elevated maternal IL-1beta, TNF-alpha, and unaltered IL-6 levels, is relevant to a negative obstetric outcome.

Elevated Circulating IL-1β and TNF-Alpha, and Unaltered IL-6 in First-Trimester Pregnancies Complicated by Threatened Abortion With an Adverse Outcome

PubMed Central

Vitoratos, Nicolaos; Papadias, Constantinos; Economou, Emmanuel; Makrakis, Evangelos; Panoulis, Constantinos; Creatsas, George

2006-01-01

The purpose of the present study was to examine the profile of selected proinflammatory cytokines in maternal serum of first-trimester pregnancies complicated by threatened abortion (TACP) and its relevance to obstetric outcome. Serum levels of Th1-type cytokines interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), and Th2-type cytokine interleukin 6 (IL-6) were measured, by ELISA, in 22 women with TACP and adverse outcome at admission (group A) and compared with the corresponding levels of 31 gestational age-matched women with TACP and successful outcome at admission (group B1) and discharge (group B2) and 22 gestational age-matched women with first-trimester uncomplicated pregnancy (group C) who served as controls. Mann-Whitney U or Wilcoxon test was applied as appropriate to compare differences between groups. IL-1β and TNF-alpha were detected with significantly higher levels in group A, compared to all other groups. On the contrary, IL-6 levels were detected with no significant difference among all the other groups studied. It is concluded that in first-trimester TACP with adverse outcome, a distinct immune response, as reflected by elevated maternal IL-1β, TNF-alpha, and unaltered IL-6 levels, is relevant to a negative obstetric outcome. PMID:17047289

Fitness determinants of repeated-sprint ability in highly trained youth football players.

PubMed

Spencer, Matt; Pyne, David; Santisteban, Juanma; Mujika, Iñigo

2011-12-01

Variations in rates of growth and development in young football players can influence relationships among various fitness qualities. To investigate the relationships between repeated-sprint ability and other fundamental fitness qualities of acceleration, agility, explosive leg power, and aerobic conditioning through the age groups of U11 to U18 in highly trained junior football players. Male players (n = 119) across the age groups completed a fitness assessment battery over two testing sessions. The first session consisted of countermovement jumps without and with arm swing, 15-m sprint run, 15-m agility run, and the 20-m Shuttle Run (U11 to U15) or the Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test, Level 1 (U16 to U18). The players were tested for repeated-sprint ability in the second testing session using a protocol of 6 × 30-m sprints on 30 s with an active recovery. The correlations of repeated-sprint ability with the assorted fitness tests varied considerably between the age groups, especially for agility (r = .02 to .92) and explosive leg power (r = .04 to .84). Correlations of repeated sprint ability with acceleration (r = .48 to .93) and aerobic conditioning (r = .28 to .68) were less variable with age. Repeated-sprint ability associates differently with other fundamental fitness tests throughout the teenage years in highly trained football players, although stabilization of these relationships occurs by the age of 18 y. Coaches in junior football should prescribe physical training accounting for variations in short-term disruptions or impairment of physical performance during this developmental period.

Fluid Dynamics Panel Working Group 12 on Adaptive Wind Tunnel Walls: Technology and Applications (Les Souffleries a Paroi Adaptable Technologies et Applications)

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-04-01

mensional Wall Adaptation. Dissertation, Universite Libre de Bruxelles, 1986. [4.22] Prandtl, L.: Experimentelle Prufung der [4.12] AshilI , P.R., Weeks...TR 86026 U, Feb.1986. May 1988. [6.29] Archambaud, J.P. and Chevallier, J.P., "Utilisation [6.91 AshilI , P.R. and Weeks, D.J., "A Method for Deter- de

[Influence of rosiglitazone and all-trans-retinoic acid on angiogenesis and growth of myeloma xenograft in nude mice].

PubMed

Huang, Hai-wen; Chen, Ping; Li, Bing-zong; Fu, Jin-xiang; Li, Jun; Zhang, Xiao-hui; Liu, Rui; Fan, Yin-yin; Zhang, Hong; Chow, Howard C H; Leung, Anska Y H; Liang, Raymond

2012-09-01

To observe the effect of rosiglitazone (RGZ) and all-trans-retinoic acid (ATRA) on the growth of myeloma xenograft in nude mice and to explore the influence of RGZ and ATRA on VEGF expression and angiogenesis in the tumor. VEGF gene expression in myeloma cell line U266 cells was analyzed by semi-quantitative RT-PCR after incubation with RGZ, ATRA, or RGZ + ATRA for 24 h. Myeloma xenograft was established by subcutaneous injection of 10(7) U266 cells in the scapula area of 4-week old nude mice. 7 days later, the nude mice were administered with RGZ, ATRA or RGZ + ATRA, respectively, by intraperitoneal injection once every day for 21 days. The control mice were given equal volume of normal saline instead of the drug. On the 21(st) day of treatment, the mice were sacrificed and the tumors were taken off, and the tumor volume and weight were measured. The tumors were examined by histopathology with HE staining, and microvessel density (MVD), CD34 and VEGF expression in the tumors were analyzed by immunohistochemical staining. VEGF mRNA was highly expressed in U266 cells and was decreased in a dose-dependent manner after incubation with RGZ. The VEGF mRNA level was further more decreased after RGZ + ATRA treatment. Xenografts of U266 cells were developed in all nude mice. The volume and weight of xenografts in the RGZ group were (785 ± 262) mm(3) and (1748 ± 365) mg, respectively, significantly lower than those of the control group (both P < 0.01). More significant inhibition was in the RGZ + ATRA group, (154 ± 89) mm(3) and (626 ± 102) mg, respectively, both were P < 0.05 vs. the RGZ group. RGZ inhibited the angiogenesis in U266 xenografts and immunohistochemical staining showed that the tumor MVD and VEGF expression were significantly decreased by RGZ treatment, and further more inhibited in the RGZ + ATRA group. VEGF protein was expressed in all xenografts in the nude mice. Its immunohistochemical staining intensity was 2.20 ± 0.40 in the control group, significantly higher than that of 1.48 ± 0.37 in the RGZ group (P < 0.01), and that of RGZ + ATRA group was 0.58 ± 0.26, further significantly lower than that of the RGZ group (P < 0.01). CD34 was expressed in all xenografts, most highly in the control group and lowest in the RGZ + ATRA group. The microvessel density (MVD) was highest in the control group (56.4 ± 15.2), significantly lower in the RGZ group (44.6 ± 11.2) (P < 0.05), and lowest in the RGZ + ATRA group (21.5 ± 8.6, P < 0.01). The growth of myeloma cells can also be inhibited by RGZ and ATRA in nude mice in vivo. In addition to differentiation and apoptosis induction, RGZ can inhibit the formation of myeloma xenograft probably also through the downregulation of VEGF expression and subsequent angiogenesis.

Treatment efficacy of electromyography versus fiberscopy-guided botulinum toxin injection in adductor spasmodic dysphonia patients: a prospective comparative study.

PubMed

Kim, Jae Wook; Park, Jae Hong; Park, Ki Nam; Lee, Seung Won

2014-01-01

This study prospectively evaluates and compares the treatment efficacy of botulinum toxin injection under electromyography guidance (EMG group) and percutaneous botulinum toxin injection under flexible fiberscopic guidance (fiberscopy group). Thirty patients with adductor spasmodic dysphonia (ADSD), who had never received treatment, were randomly allocated into EMG- or fiberscopy-guided botulinum toxin injections between March 2008 and February 2010. We assessed acoustic and aerodynamic voice parameters, and the voice handicap index (VHI) before injection and at 1, 3, and 6 months after injection. The mean total dosage of botulinum toxin was similar for both groups: 1.7 ± 0.5 U for the EMG group and 1.8 ± 0.4 U for the fiberscopy group (P > 0.05). There were no significant differences in outcomes between the two groups in either the duration of effectiveness or complications such as breathy voice and aspiration. Botulinum toxin injection under fiberscopic guidance is a viable alternative to EMG-guided botulinum toxin injection for the treatment of adductor spasmodic dysphonia when EMG equipment is unavailable.

Treatment Efficacy of Electromyography versus Fiberscopy-Guided Botulinum Toxin Injection in Adductor Spasmodic Dysphonia Patients: A Prospective Comparative Study

PubMed Central

Kim, Jae Wook; Park, Jae Hong; Park, Ki Nam; Lee, Seung Won

2014-01-01

Introduction. This study prospectively evaluates and compares the treatment efficacy of botulinum toxin injection under electromyography guidance (EMG group) and percutaneous botulinum toxin injection under flexible fiberscopic guidance (fiberscopy group). Methods. Thirty patients with adductor spasmodic dysphonia (ADSD), who had never received treatment, were randomly allocated into EMG- or fiberscopy-guided botulinum toxin injections between March 2008 and February 2010. We assessed acoustic and aerodynamic voice parameters, and the voice handicap index (VHI) before injection and at 1, 3, and 6 months after injection. Results. The mean total dosage of botulinum toxin was similar for both groups: 1.7 ± 0.5 U for the EMG group and 1.8 ± 0.4 U for the fiberscopy group (P > 0.05). There were no significant differences in outcomes between the two groups in either the duration of effectiveness or complications such as breathy voice and aspiration. Conclusion. Botulinum toxin injection under fiberscopic guidance is a viable alternative to EMG-guided botulinum toxin injection for the treatment of adductor spasmodic dysphonia when EMG equipment is unavailable. PMID:25383369

Blood pressure control, hypertension, awareness, and treatment in adults with diabetes in the United States-Mexico border region.

PubMed

Vijayaraghavan, Maya; He, Guozhong; Stoddard, Pamela; Schillinger, Dean

2010-09-01

To determine prevalence of blood pressure control, hypertension, hypertension awareness, and antihypertensive treatment among adults (> 18 years old) with diabetes living in the border region between the United States of America and Mexico, and to explore variation in those variables between all adults on the Mexican side of the border ("Mexicans") and three groups on the U.S. side of the border ("all U.S. adults," "U.S.-born Hispanics," and "Mexican immigrants"). Using data from Phase I (February 2001-October 2002) of the U.S.-Mexico Border Diabetes Prevention and Control Project, a prevalence study of type 2 diabetes and its risk factors, age-adjusted prevalence of hypertension-related variables was calculated for the sample (n = 682) and differences between the border groups were examined through logistic regression. Less than one-third of the sample had controlled blood pressure (< 130/80 mm Hg), almost half had hypertension (≥140/90 mm Hg), and hypertension awareness and treatment were inadequate. After adjusting for demographics, body mass index, and access to health care, there were no differences in blood pressure control, hypertension, hypertension awareness, or treatment between Mexicans and both U.S. adults and Mexican immigrants. However, compared to Mexicans and Mexican immigrants, U.S.-born Hispanics, particularly younger individuals, had the lowest rates of blood pressure control (17.3%) and the highest rates of coexisting hypertension (54.8%). Compared to Mexicans, U.S.-born Hispanics had lower odds of controlled blood pressure (odds ratio [OR] 0.30, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.09-0.95) and greater odds of hypertension (OR 3.75, 95% CI 1.51-9.29) and hypertension awareness (OR 6.19, 95% CI 1.46-26.15). Co-occurrence of diabetes and hypertension is a major public health problem among U.S.-Mexico border residents. The low rate of blood pressure control among various border groups, especially younger U.S.-born Hispanics, suggests that initiatives should aggressively target blood pressure control.

The velocity ellipsoid in the Galactic disc using Gaia DR1

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anguiano, Borja; Majewski, Steven R.; Freeman, Kenneth C.; Mitschang, Arik W.; Smith, Martin C.

2018-02-01

The stellar velocity ellipsoid of the solar neighbour (d < 200 pc) is re-examined using intermediate-old mono-abundance stellar groups with high-quality chemistry data together with parallaxes and proper motions from Gaia DR1. We find the average velocity dispersion values for the three space velocity components for the thin and thick discs of (σU, σV, σW)thin = (33 ± 4, 28 ± 2, 23 ± 2) and (σU, σV, σW)thick = (57 ± 6, 38 ± 5, 37 ± 4) km s-1, respectively. The mean values of the ratio between the semi-axes of the velocity ellipsoid for the thin disc are found to be σV/σU = 0.70 ± 0.13 and σW/σU is 0.64 ± 0.08, while for the thick disc σV/σU = 0.67 ± 0.11 and σW/σU is 0.66 ± 0.11. Inputting these dispersions into the linear Strömberg relation for the thin disc groups, we find the Sun's velocity with respect to the Local Standard of Rest in Galactic rotation to be V⊙ = 13.9 ± 3.4 km s-1. A relation is found between the vertex deviation and the chemical abundances for the thin disc, ranging from -5 to +40° as iron abundance increases. For the thick disc we find a vertex deviation of luv ˜- 15°. The tilt angle (luw) in the U-W plane for the thin disc groups ranges from -10 to +15°, but there is no evident relation between luw and the mean abundances. However, we find a weak relation for luw as a function of iron abundances and α-elements for most of the groups in the thick disc, where the tilt angle decreases from -5 to -20° when [Fe/H] decreases and [α/Fe] increases. The velocity anisotropy parameter is independent of the chemical group abundances and its value is nearly constant for both discs (β ˜ 0.5), suggesting that the combined disc is dynamically relaxed.

[Relation between the level of TPS, NSE, CEA and beta2-mG in the serum and the biological behavior of small cell lung cancer].

PubMed

Chen, Ming-sheng; Xu, Yan; Ma, Jing; Wu, Chang-gui; Hao, Xiao-ke; Lu, Bao-bi; Liu, Tian

2007-08-01

To study the relation between the level of tissue polypeptide specific antigen (TPS), neuron-specific enolase (NSE), carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and beta(2)-microglobulin (beta(2)-mG) in serum and the biological behavior of lung cancer for the more scientific diagnosis of lung cancer. To detect the level of TPS, NSE, CEA and beta(2)-mG in the serum of 94 patients with small cell lung cancer (SCLC), 86 patients with benign pulmonary diseases (BPD) and 89 patients in normal control group, the level of serum were examined by ELISA and immunoradiometric assay. The level of TPS and NSE in the serum of SCLC group [(437.8+/-516.6) U/L, (76.8+/-91.4) microg/L] were much higher than those in BPD group [(143.6+/-78.7) U/L, (13.3+/-10.8) microg/L] and normal group [(98.4+/-58.9) U/L, (10.1+/-5.7) microg/L, P<0.01)], and the level of CEA and beta(2)-mG in the serum of SCLC group were also obviously higher than those in normal group and BPD group (P<0.01). The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of SCLC'S diagnosis by an indicator of TPS and NSE were 84.4%, 87.8%, 83.6% and 79.3%, 93.7%, 88.3%, respectively, and were much higher than CEA and beta(2)-Mg. In addition, the level of TPS and NSE in the patients' serum with metastatic SCLC were markedly higher than those in the patients with SCLC without metastasis, increased with the number of metastatic focuses. In clinical practice, the possibility of smokers suffering from lung cancer disease is 8 to 10 times higher than that of no-smokers, and 10 to 24 times higher of the people who smoked 30 to 40 cigarettes per day. From this comparison, the amount of smoking was closely related to the occurrence of lung cancer. TPS, NSE, CEA and beta(2)-mG in serum are useful for early diagnosis of lung cancer. There is complementarity in the combined detection of the level of TPS, NSE, CEA and beta(2)-MG. Their levels have close correlation with lung cancer, histological grades and lymphoid nodule metastasis.

Comparison of usual podiatric care and early physical therapy intervention for plantar heel pain: study protocol for a parallel-group randomized clinical trial

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background A significant number of individuals suffer from plantar heel pain (PHP) and many go on to have chronic symptoms and continued disability. Persistence of symptoms adds to the economic burden of PHP and cost-effective solutions are needed. Currently, there is a wide variation in treatment, cost, and outcomes of care for PHP with limited information on the cost-effectiveness and comparisons of common treatment approaches. Two practice guidelines and recent evidence of effective physical therapy intervention are available to direct treatment but the timing and influence of physical therapy intervention in the multidisciplinary management of PHP is unclear. The purpose of this investigation is to compare the outcomes and costs associated with early physical therapy intervention (ePT) following initial presentation to podiatry versus usual podiatric care (uPOD) in individuals with PHP. Methods A parallel-group, block-randomized clinical trial will compare ePT and uPOD. Both groups will be seen initially by a podiatrist before allocation to a group that will receive physical therapy intervention consisting primarily of manual therapy, exercise, and modalities, or podiatric care consisting primarily of a stretching handout, medication, injections, and orthotics. Treatment in each group will be directed by practice guidelines and a procedural manual, yet the specific intervention for each participant will be selected by the treating provider. Between-group differences in the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure 6 months following the initial visit will be the primary outcome collected by an independent investigator. In addition, differences in the European Quality of Life – Five Dimensions, Numeric Pain Rating Scale, Global Rating of Change (GROC), health-related costs, and cost-effectiveness at 6 weeks, 6 months, and 1 year will be compared between groups. The association between successful outcomes based on GROC score and participant expectations of recovery generally, and specific to physical therapy and podiatry treatment, will also be analyzed. Discussion This study will be the first pragmatic trial to investigate the clinical outcomes and cost-effectiveness of ePT and uPOD in individuals with PHP. The results will serve to inform clinical practice decisions and management guidelines of multiple disciplines. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01865734 PMID:24299257

Traffic safety facts 1995 : older population

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1996-01-01

There are approximately 23.6 million people age 70 years and older in the United States. In 1995, this age group made up 9 percent of the total U.S. resident population, compared with 8 percent in 1985. From 1985 to 1995, this older segment of the po...

Korean Phrase Book.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Peace Corps, Washington, DC.

This is a brief guide to Korean pronunciation and phrases, prepared for U.S. Navy personnel. Expressions are grouped according to the following headings: (1) emergency expressions; (2) general expressions; (3) personal needs; (4) location and terrain; (5) roads and transportation; (6) communications; (7) letters, numbers, size, time, etc.; (8)…

The Hyades main sequence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eggen, O. J.

1982-11-01

Intermediate band, H-beta and RI observations of 72 Hyades cluster stars to V = 11 mag are reported and discussed. A modulus of 3.2 mag is derived on the basis of a comparison with field stars of large parallax. Also presented are observations of 98 main-sequence stars of the Hyades group that were previously found to be group members from kinematical considerations. Parallaxes of the group stars, computed on the assumption that they are members of an extended Hyades cluster, yield mean values of (U, V, W) = (+40.5, -18.4, -4.9) km/s, with dispersions of (2.3, 2.3, 6.0) km/s, compared with (+41.7, -18.4, -2.0) and (2.6, 1.3, 1.9) km/s for the brightest cluster members. It is noted that all the stars discussed can be considered as members of a supercluster in which only a slight relaxation control of the W velocities is present for stars far from the nucleus. Evidence is found, including that of the Praesepe cluster at Z = +80 pc, for some interchange between the U, V, and W velocities in stars farthest from the galactic plane, with the total cluster velocity being maintained.

[Treatment with human recombinant erythropoietin and frequency of retinopathy of prematurity].

PubMed

Rudzińska, Iwona M; Kornacka, Maria K; Pawluch, Robert

2002-01-01

The aim of our study was to assess frequency of ROP in VLBW and ELBW treated with rhEPO in preventing anemia. In 36 newborns with birth weight 480 to 1490 g (median 1032 g) and 24 to 32 weeks of gestational age (median 28.0 weeks) we have estimated concentration of cord erythropoietin. According this concentration we have divided our material into two groups. In first group of 22 newborns with cord concentration of EPO < 10 mU/ml we started early erythropoietin (rhEPO) therapy which was continued by 6 weeks. Second group of 14 no early usage newborns had cord EPO concentration > 10 mU/ml. In second group the control level of serum EPO was measured in 15th day of life. In newborns from second group in which the EPO concentration during two weeks decreased below 10 mU/ml we started to use rhEPO as a late usage. First oculistic consultation took place in the 5th week of life according to the screening performed in our country. In the first group (n = 22) with early EPO treatment retinopathy was recognized in 15 preterm newborns (68.2%). Eight of them (53.3%) had advanced form of retinopathy ROP (III lub III+) and were undergone a laserotherapy. In the group of late usage of rhEPO (n = 14) 8 newborns (57.1%) had signs of retinopathy, but only 3 of them (37.5%) required laserotherapy because of advanced form of ROP (III lub III+).

A comparison of liver function after hepatectomy with inflow occlusion between sevoflurane and propofol anesthesia.

PubMed

Song, J C; Sun, Y M; Yang, L Q; Zhang, M Z; Lu, Z J; Yu, W F

2010-10-01

In this study, we compared liver function tests after hepatectomy with inflow occlusion as a function of propofol versus sevoflurane anesthesia. One hundred patients undergoing elective liver resection with inflow occlusion were randomized into a sevoflurane group or a propofol group. General anesthesia was induced with 3 μg/kg fentanyl, 0.2 mg/kg cisatracurium, and target-controlled infusion of propofol, set at a plasma target concentration of 4 to 6 μg/mL, or sevoflurane initially started at 8%. Anesthesia was maintained with target-controlled infusion of propofol (2-4 μg/mL) or sevoflurane (1.5%-2.5%). The primary end point was postoperative liver injury assessed by peak values of liver transaminases. Transaminase levels peaked between the first and the third postoperative day. Peak alanine aminotransferase was 504 and 571 U/L in the sevoflurane group and the propofol group, respectively. Peak aspartate aminotransferase was 435 U/L after sevoflurane and 581 U/L in the propofol group. There were no significant differences in peak alanine aminotransferase or peak aspartate aminotransferase between groups. Other liver function tests including bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase, and peak values of white blood cell counts and creatinine, were also not different between groups. Sevoflurane and propofol anesthetics resulted in similar patterns of liver function tests after hepatectomy with inflow occlusion. These data suggest that the 2 anesthetics are equivalent in this clinical context.

Topical effects of frog "Rana ridibunda" skin secretions on wound healing and reduction of wound microbial load.

PubMed

Mashreghi, Mohammad; Rezazade Bazaz, Mahere; Mahdavi Shahri, Nasser; Asoodeh, Ahmad; Mashreghi, Mansour; Behnam Rassouli, Morteza; Golmohammadzadeh, Shiva

2013-02-13

Study of the interrelationships between human and the animals in their environment has always been a subject of interest and caused discoveries of the animal applications in medicine. From the latest century, these remedies called back in traditional medicine of Vietnam and South America and frog skin was used as a biological dressing and had good effects in healing wounds. Also, frog skin secretions have wound healing properties and reduce inflammation. In this study we applied these secretions in the form of ointment to investigate their healing activities. Skin secretions were extracted from Rana ridibunda to evaluate their effects on wound healing in mice. Secretion used as raw extract (RE) and ultrafiltrated extract, using a membrane with cutoff 10kDa as under 10kDa (U10E), was administrated as ointment every 48h on wound site. Control group was left without any treatment and also there was other group treated with ointment (O group) alone. On 2, 4 and 6 days post injury, animals were euthanized and images were taken for wound closure evaluation. Then wound locations were removed for histological assays. Also wound microbial load was examined. Observational parameters including wound closure and wound microbiology in experimental groups compared with the control and O groups have been studied. The results showed U10E group has better effects than RE, O and control groups. Histological parameters, including numbers of inflammatory and fibroblast cells and amount of collagen fibers, neovascularization, as well, represented greater degree of wound healing in U10E group compared with RE, O, and control groups. Our results showed that frog skin secretions were significantly effective in promoting wound healing process. The U10E extract from the frog R. ridibunda possesses a potent accelerating wound healing effect that promises good potential for clinical application in wound care. Further studies will be required to characterize special molecules encompassing healing properties. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Antibiotics in urinary-tract infections. Sustained change in prescribing habits by practice test and self-reflection: a mixed methods before-after study.

PubMed

Kuehlein, T; Goetz, K; Laux, G; Gutscher, A; Szecsenyi, J; Joos, S

2011-06-01

BACKGROUND The German guideline recommends trimethoprim (TMP) for the treatment of uncomplicated lower-urinary-tract infections (uLUTI) in primary care. In the authors' research network, the participating general practitioners (GPs) were asked why they prescribe mostly quinolones instead. The GPs stated the perception of a high rate of therapy failure of TMP and strongly rejected the guideline. OBJECTIVE To examine prescribing behaviour for uLUTI and whether a practice test of TMP might effect a change in prescribing habits. METHODS The study was conducted using observational and qualitative elements. A first focus-group (n=6) assessed reasons for current prescribing behaviour. In a 3-month practice test, patients with uLUTI were prescribed TMP (150 mg twice for 3 days). In a second focus group, the GPs (n=12) were presented with the results of the practice test. RESULTS The first focus group revealed that prescribing was mainly driven by former hospital training and what was perceived as common therapy. GPs felt no need to change a successful regimen. In the practice test, TMP had a success rate of 94% (84 episodes of uLUTI). The second focus group revealed that the practice test had strongly changed opinions in favour of TMP. Self-reflection and ownership of data acquisition were seen as major contributions for change in prescribing. After the test period, TMP remained the antibiotic most often prescribed. CONCLUSION Internal evidence and peer-group opinion are strong determinants for clinical decisions. A self-conducted practice test, together with self-reflection in a peer group, strongly supports the process of change.

Huperzine A protects neural stem cells against Aβ-induced apoptosis in a neural stem cells and microglia co-culture system

PubMed Central

Zhu, Ning; Lin, Jizong; Wang, Kewan; Wei, Meidan; Chen, Qingzhuang; Wang, Yong

2015-01-01

Objectives: This study aims to explore whether Huperzine A (HupA) could protect neural stem cells against amyloid beta-peptide Aβ induced apoptosis in a neural stem cells (NSCs) and microglia co-culture system. Methods: Rat NSCs and microglial cells were isolated, cultured and identified with immunofluorescence Assays (IFA). Co-culture systems of NSCs and microglial cells were employed using Transwell Permeable Supports. The effects of Aβ1-42 on NSCs were studied in 4 groups using co-culture systems: NSCs, Aβ+NSCs, co-culture and Aβ+co-culture groups. Bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation and flow cytometry were utilized to assess the differences of proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis of NSCs between the groups. LQ test was performed to assess the amounts of IL-6, TNF-α and MIP-α secreted, and flow cytometry and Western blotting were used to assess apoptosis of NSCs and the expressions of Bcl-2 and Bax in each group. Results: IFA results showed that isolated rat NSCs were nestin-positive and microglial cells were CD11b/c-positive. Among all the groups, the Aβ+co-culture group has the lowest BrdU expression level, the lowest MAP2-positive, ChAT-positive cell counts and the highest NSC apoptosis rate. Smaller amounts of IL-6, TNF-α and MIP-α were being secreted by microglial cells in the HupA+Aβ+co-culture group compared with those in the Aβ+ co-culture group. Also the Bcl-2: Bax ratio was much higher in the HupA+Aβ+co-culture group than in the Aβ+co-culture group. Conclusions: HupA inhibits cell apoptosis through restraining microglia’s inflammatory response induced by Aβ1-42. PMID:26261518

Changes in the medical management of patients on opioid analgesics following a diagnosis of substance abuse.

PubMed

Paulozzi, Leonard J; Zhou, Chao; Jones, Christopher M; Xu, Likang; Florence, Curtis S

2016-05-01

When providers recognize that patients are abusing prescription drugs, review of the drugs they are prescribed and attempts to treat the substance use disorder are warranted. However, little is known about whether prescribing patterns change following such a diagnosis. We used national longitudinal health claims data from the Market Scan® commercial claims database for January 2010-June 2011. We used a cohort of 1.85 million adults 18-64 years old prescribed opioid analgesics but without abuse diagnoses during a 6-month "preabuse" period. We identified a subset of 9009 patients receiving diagnoses of abuse of non-illicit drugs (abuse group) during a 6-month "abuse" period and compared them with patients without such a diagnosis (nonabuse group) during both the abuse period and a subsequent 6-month "postabuse" period. During the abuse period 5.78% of the abuse group and 0.14% of the nonabuse group overdosed. Overdose rates declined to 2.12% in the abuse group in the postabuse period. Opioid prescribing rates declined 13.5%, and benzodiazepine rates declined 12.3% in the abuse group in the post-abuse period. Antidepressants and gabapentin were prescribed to roughly one half and one quarter of the abuse group, respectively, during all three periods. Daily opioid dosage did not decline in the abuse group following diagnosis. Prescribing to people who abuse drugs changes little after their abuse is documented. Actions such as tapering opioid and benzodiazepine prescriptions, maximizing alternative treatments for pain, and greater use of medication-assisted treatment such as buprenorphine could help reduce risk in this population. Published 2016. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA. Published 2016. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.

Prevalence and trends of leisure-time physical activity by occupation and industry in U.S. workers: the National Health Interview Survey 2004-2014.

PubMed

Gu, Ja K; Charles, Luenda E; Ma, Claudia C; Andrew, Michael E; Fekedulegn, Desta; Hartley, Tara A; Violanti, John M; Burchfiel, Cecil M

2016-10-01

Studies describing prevalence and trends of physical activity among workers in the United States are scarce. We aimed to estimate prevalence and trends of "sufficient" leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) during the 2004-2014 time period among U.S. workers. Data were collected for U.S. workers in the National Health Interview Survey. LTPA was categorized as sufficiently active (moderate intensity, ≥150 minutes per week), insufficiently active (10-149 minutes per week), and inactive (<10 minutes per week). Prevalence of LTPA was adjusted for age using 2010 U.S. working population as a standardized age distribution. Prevalence trends of "sufficient" LTPA significantly increased from 2004 to 2014 (45.6% to 54.8%; P < .001). Among industry groups, the highest prevalence of "sufficient" LTPA was observed among workers in Professional/Scientific/Technical Services (62.1%). The largest increases were observed among workers in Public Administration (51.3%-63.4%). Among occupational groups, "sufficient" LTPA prevalence was lowest in farming/fishing/forestry (30.8%) and highest in life/physical/social science (66.4%). Prevalence of LTPA significantly increased from 2004 to 2014 in most occupational and industry groups. Among U.S. workers, trends of "sufficient" LTPA significantly increased between 2004 and 2014. Overall, a larger proportion of white-collar compared to blue-collar workers were engaged in "sufficient" LTPA. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Prevalence and trends of leisure-time physical activity by occupation and industry in U.S. workers: the National Health Interview Survey 2004–2014

PubMed Central

Gu, Ja K.; Charles, Luenda E.; Ma, Claudia C.; Andrew, Michael E.; Fekedulegn, Desta; Hartley, Tara A.; Violanti, John M.; Burchfiel, Cecil M.

2016-01-01

Purpose Studies describing prevalence and trends of physical activity among workers in the United States are scarce. We aimed to estimate prevalence and trends of “sufficient” leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) during the 2004–2014 time period among U.S. workers. Methods Data were collected for U.S. workers in the National Health Interview Survey. LTPA was categorized as sufficiently active (moderate intensity, ≥150 minutes per week), insufficiently active (10–149 minutes per week), and inactive (<10 minutes per week). Prevalence of LTPA was adjusted for age using 2010 U.S. working population as a standardized age distribution. Results Prevalence trends of “sufficient” LTPA significantly increased from 2004 to 2014 (45.6% to 54.8%; P < .001). Among industry groups, the highest prevalence of “sufficient” LTPA was observed among workers in Professional/Scientific/Technical Services (62.1%). The largest increases were observed among workers in Public Administration (51.3%–63.4%). Among occupational groups, “sufficient” LTPA prevalence was lowest in farming/fishing/forestry (30.8%) and highest in life/physical/social science (66.4%). Prevalence of LTPA significantly increased from 2004 to 2014 in most occupational and industry groups. Conclusions Among U.S. workers, trends of “sufficient” LTPA significantly increased between 2004 and 2014. Overall, a larger proportion of white-collar compared to blue-collar workers were engaged in “sufficient” LTPA. PMID:27659584

A booster dose of an inactivated enterovirus 71 vaccine in chinese young children: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.

PubMed

Shenyu, Wang; Jingxin, Li; Zhenglun, Liang; Xiuling, Li; Qunying, Mao; Fanyue, Meng; Hua, Wang; Yuntao, Zhang; Fan, Gao; Qinghua, Chen; Yuemei, Hu; Xin, Yao; Huijie, Guo; Fengcai, Zhu

2014-10-01

A significant waning of enterovirus 71 (EV71) antibody titer after priming immunization with an inactivated EV71 vaccine implied the potential need for a booster dose. In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, we recruited participants who had received at least 1 dose of priming EV71 vaccine in an early phase 2 clinical trial that was conducted in healthy infants and children aged 6-35 months. All participants were grouped according to the priming EV71 vaccine formulations (160 U, 320 U, and 640 U with adjuvant and 640 U without adjuvant) and then randomly assigned (ratio, 2:1) to receive a booster dose of vaccine or placebo within each formulation group. The primary end point was the geometric mean titer 28 days after the booster dose. A total of 773 participants were enrolled. Significantly greater immunological responses were induced by the booster shot of all 4 formulations of EV71 vaccine, compared with that induced by placebo (P < .0001). The frequencies of adverse reactions were similar between vaccine and placebo groups within each formulation group. A booster dose of EV71 vaccine 1 year after the priming EV71 immunization shows excellent immunogenicity and good safety profile. Clinical Trials Registration: NCT01734408. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Infectious Diseases Society of America. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Projections of Demand for Waterborne Transportation, Ohio River Basin, 1980, 1990, 2000, 2020, 2040. Volume 9. Group VII. Ores and Minerals.

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-12-01

U l 0 0 ) C 4140 c4 34jE 04 0)t 03.- In lo No ID 0ID 6)ID M). U 0 ( in cc m m m c m mm m a a) la.0u) 0r- 02d)20 C ’N C ~ 3 C -27- c -o 0 It14’ 0 14 tn...N 1.D/ c4 0)00E w.~ 0 V-- -"- -- V04 M1)4VdW -4I -..- 1. 0001M.-40 00 4D4J.’ ::l c:; Q o u00 0 0.0 a 0~~ ~ m𔃺 w , 0-0m.-Q)uH 1.4 0 : . 0 4140 .0 ZZl...Statistical Report. 1969-78 eds. Washington, D.C.: AISI , 1970-79. American Metal Market. Metal Statistics. 1970 -d. New York: Fairchild, 1976. "Facts and

Acute and subacute toxicities effect of oxytetracycline pharmaceutical wastewater on Zebrafish

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Pengpeng; Shen, Hong-Yan

2018-02-01

Oxytetracycline wastewater is a major category of pharmaceutical wastewater, and its toxic effects on aquatic organisms have aroused people’s attention. In this study, Zebrafish were separately exposed to four Oxytetracycline wastewater treatments (20%, 40%, 60%, 80%) and a control group were sampled on days 3, 6, 9, 12, and 15. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities showed significant inhibition, but the highest SOD activity was found in 20% and 40% the treatment groups (195.12U/mgprot, 187.43U/mgprot, respectively) on the 12th day. MDA contents increased significantly compared with control group. MDA contents showed that the higher the volume concentration, the higher the contents of MDA with the increase of exposure time. The highest MDA content shown in 60% exposure group (5.49nmol/mgprot) on the 12th day. And SOD activities and MDA contents showed a trend of “Λ” type. In conclusion, Oxytetracycline wastewater induced oxidative stress and toxicity in Zebrafish muscle tissue.

Number of Minority Students in Colleges Rose by 9% from 1990 to 1991, U.S. Reports; Fact File: State-by-State Enrollment by Racial and Ethnic Group, Fall 1991.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Evangelauf, Jean

1993-01-01

A national survey shows that total minority enrollment in colleges is at an all-time high at 20.6 percent of overall enrollment. Despite this, minority groups continue to be underrepresented in college student populations. Enrollments by state indicate wide geographic variation in percentages of students from ethnic and racial minorities. (MSE)

1001619

NASA Image and Video Library

2010-09-15

SAMUEL SMITH (WELD TECHNICIAN, JACOBS ESTS GROUP/ALL POINTS) AND ANDRÉ PASEUR (WELD TECHNICIAN, JACOBS ESTS GROUP/ERC) DISPLAY TWO PROCESS DEMONSTRATION ARTICLES – A 9-FOOT BUTT WELD (FOREGROUND) AND A HEXAGON FABRICATED FROM FRICTION STIR WELDED PLATES (BACKGROUND) – THAT WERE FABRICATED FROM 6AL-4V TITANIUM (ELI) USING THERMAL STIR WELDING. THIS WORK WAS PERFORMED FOR A NASA TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER INDUSTRIAL PARTNER (KEYSTONE SYNERGETIC ENTERPRISES, INC.) IN SUPPORT OF A PROJECT FOR THE U.S. NAVY

Blood and Tissue Enzymatic Activities of GDH and LDH, Index of Glutathione, and Oxidative Stress among Breast Cancer Patients Attending Referral Hospitals of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: Hospital-Based Comparative Cross-Sectional Study

PubMed Central

Seyoum, Nebiyou; Bekele, Mahteme; Tigeneh, Wondimagegn; Seifu, Daniel

2018-01-01

The exact cause of breast cancer is unknown; it is a multifactorial disease. It is the most diagnosed and the second killer cancer among women. Breast cancer can be originated from tissues of breast or secondary from other organs via metastasis. Generally, cancer cells show aberrant metabolism and oxidative stress when compared to noncancerous tissues of breast cancer patients. The current study aims at evaluating glutamate and glucose metabolism through GDH and LDH enzyme activities, oxidant, and antioxidative status among breast cancer patients attending referral hospitals of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Result. Catalytic activities of glutamate dehydrogenase, lactate dehydrogenase, and oxidative stress index were significantly increased in both serum (4.2 mU/ml, 78.6 mU/ml, and 3.3 : 1, resp.) and cancerous tissues (1.4 mU/ml, 111.7 mU/ml, and 2.15 : 1, resp.) of breast cancer patients as compared to those in serum of control group (3.15 mU/ml, 30.4 mU/ml, and 2.05 : 1, resp.) and noncancerous tissues of breast cancer patients (0.92 mU/ml, 70.5 mU/ml, and 1.1 : 1, resp.) (P ≤ 0.05). Correspondingly, ratios of reduced to oxidized glutathione were significantly decreased in both serum (20 : 1) and cancerous tissues (23.5 : 1) of breast cancer patients when compared to those in serum of control group (104.5 : 1) and noncancerous tissues of breast cancer patients (70.9 : 1) (P ≤ 0.05). Conclusion. Catalytic activities of GDH and LDH, ratios of GSH to GSSG, and concentration of TOS among breast cancer patients were significantly higher than were those among control group and noncancerous tissues of breast cancer patients, while TAC of breast cancer patients is significantly lower than that of control group and normal tissues of breast cancer patients. PMID:29770168

Blood and Tissue Enzymatic Activities of GDH and LDH, Index of Glutathione, and Oxidative Stress among Breast Cancer Patients Attending Referral Hospitals of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: Hospital-Based Comparative Cross-Sectional Study.

PubMed

Mehdi, Mohammed; Menon, M K C; Seyoum, Nebiyou; Bekele, Mahteme; Tigeneh, Wondimagegn; Seifu, Daniel

2018-01-01

The exact cause of breast cancer is unknown; it is a multifactorial disease. It is the most diagnosed and the second killer cancer among women. Breast cancer can be originated from tissues of breast or secondary from other organs via metastasis. Generally, cancer cells show aberrant metabolism and oxidative stress when compared to noncancerous tissues of breast cancer patients. The current study aims at evaluating glutamate and glucose metabolism through GDH and LDH enzyme activities, oxidant, and antioxidative status among breast cancer patients attending referral hospitals of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Result . Catalytic activities of glutamate dehydrogenase, lactate dehydrogenase, and oxidative stress index were significantly increased in both serum (4.2 mU/ml, 78.6 mU/ml, and 3.3 : 1, resp.) and cancerous tissues (1.4 mU/ml, 111.7 mU/ml, and 2.15 : 1, resp.) of breast cancer patients as compared to those in serum of control group (3.15 mU/ml, 30.4 mU/ml, and 2.05 : 1, resp.) and noncancerous tissues of breast cancer patients (0.92 mU/ml, 70.5 mU/ml, and 1.1 : 1, resp.) ( P ≤ 0.05). Correspondingly, ratios of reduced to oxidized glutathione were significantly decreased in both serum (20 : 1) and cancerous tissues (23.5 : 1) of breast cancer patients when compared to those in serum of control group (104.5 : 1) and noncancerous tissues of breast cancer patients (70.9 : 1) ( P ≤ 0.05). Conclusion . Catalytic activities of GDH and LDH, ratios of GSH to GSSG, and concentration of TOS among breast cancer patients were significantly higher than were those among control group and noncancerous tissues of breast cancer patients, while TAC of breast cancer patients is significantly lower than that of control group and normal tissues of breast cancer patients.

Effect of High-Speed Strength Training on Physical Performance in Young Soccer Players of Different Ages.

PubMed

Rodríguez-Rosell, David; Franco-Márquez, Felipe; Mora-Custodio, Ricardo; González-Badillo, Juan José

2017-09-01

Rodríguez-Rosell, D, Franco-Márquez, F, Mora-Custodio, R, and González-Badillo, JJ. Effect of high-speed strength training on physical performance in young soccer players of different ages. J Strength Cond Res 31(9): 2498-2508, 2017-The aim of the present study was to compare the effectiveness of low-load, low-volume weight training combined with plyometrics on strength, sprint, and jump performance in soccer players of different ages. Eighty-six soccer players from the same academy were categorized into 3 groups by age (under 13 years, U13, n = 30; under 15, U15, n = 28; and under 17, U17, n = 28) and then randomly assigned into 2 subgroups: a strength training group (STG) and a control group (CG). The strength training program was performed twice a week for 6 weeks and consisted of full squats (load: 45-60% 1 repetition maximum; volume: 3 set of 8-4 repetitions), jumps, and straight line sprint exercises. After training intervention, the STGs showed significant improvements in maximal strength (7.5-54.5%; p < 0.001), jump height (5.7-12.5%; p <0.01-0.001), and sprint time (-3.7 to -1.2%; p ≤0.05-0.001), whereas no significant gains were found for any variable in the CGs. Comparison between experimental groups resulted in a greater magnitude of change for U13 compared with U15 (effect sizes [ES]: 0.10-0.53) and U17 (ES: 0.14-1.41) soccer players in most variables, whereas U15 showed higher improvements in jump and strength parameters than U17 (ES: 0.25-0.90) soccer players. Thus, although our results indicates that a combined weight training and plyometrics program may be effective in eliciting gains in strength, jump, and sprint in soccer players of different ages, the training program used appears to be generally less effective as the age of the soccer players increased. Therefore, it appears that training characteristics (mainly volume, intensity, and type of exercise) should be modified in relation to maturity status and initial strength level.

U-Th-Pb systematics of the Estherville mesosiderite

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brouxel, M.; Tatsumoto, M.

1990-01-01

Results are presented on a detailed U-Th-Pb systematics of the Estherville mososiderite, which was performed in a study involving stepwise leaching experiments. The Pb-Pb internal 'isochrons' for Estherville yielded ages of 4556 + or - 35 Ma, 4506 + or - 75 Ma, and 4422 + or - 50 Ma, indicating that the silicate fraction of the Estherville mesosiderite is very heterogeneous and was formed early in the solar system history. Results clearly identifies the Pb-Pb isochron as a mixing line. The U-Pb lower-intercept ages could be divided into two groups: (1) around 3 Ga, and likely related to the 3.6 Ga heating event, and (2) close to 0 Ma and to 62 Ma.

Menopausal Symptom Experience of Hispanic Midlife Women in the U.S.

PubMed Central

Im, Eun-Ok; Lim, Hyun-Ju; Lee, Seung Hee; Dormire, Sharon; Chee, Wonshik; Kresta, Kimberly

2009-01-01

Using a feminist approach, we examined the menopausal symptom experience of Hispanic midlife women in the U.S. This was a qualitative online forum study among 27 Hispanic midlife women in the U.S. Seven topics related to menopausal symptom experience were used to administer the 6-month online forum. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Four themes were identified: (a) “Cambio de vida (change of life),” (b) “being silent about menopause,” (c) “trying to be optimistic,” and (d) “getting support.” More in-depth studies with diverse groups of Hispanic women are needed while considering family as a contextual factor. PMID:19742365

Bimodal collagen fibril diameter distributions direct age-related variations in tendon resilience and resistance to rupture

PubMed Central

Holmes, D. F.; Lu, Y.; Purslow, P. P.; Kadler, K. E.; Bechet, D.; Wess, T. J.

2012-01-01

Scaling relationships have been formulated to investigate the influence of collagen fibril diameter (D) on age-related variations in the strain energy density of tendon. Transmission electron microscopy was used to quantify D in tail tendon from 1.7- to 35.3-mo-old (C57BL/6) male mice. Frequency histograms of D for all age groups were modeled as two normally distributed subpopulations with smaller (DD1) and larger (DD2) mean Ds, respectively. Both DD1 and DD2 increase from 1.6 to 4.0 mo but decrease thereafter. From tensile tests to rupture, two strain energy densities were calculated: 1) uE [from initial loading until the yield stress (σY)], which contributes primarily to tendon resilience, and 2) uF [from σY through the maximum stress (σU) until rupture], which relates primarily to resistance of the tendons to rupture. As measured by the normalized strain energy densities uE/σY and uF/σU, both the resilience and resistance to rupture increase with increasing age and peak at 23.0 and 4.0 mo, respectively, before decreasing thereafter. Multiple regression analysis reveals that increases in uE/σY (resilience energy) are associated with decreases in DD1 and increases in DD2, whereas uF/σU (rupture energy) is associated with increases in DD1 alone. These findings support a model where age-related variations in tendon resilience and resistance to rupture can be directed by subtle changes in the bimodal distribution of Ds. PMID:22837169

5 CFR 892.101 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... employee or eligible family member loses coverage under FEHB or another group insurance coverage including... health plan as described in § 890.301 (i)(6). (11) An employee or eligible family member gains coverage.... FEHB Program means the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program described in 5 U.S.C. 8901. Open...

1001624

NASA Image and Video Library

2010-09-15

SAMUEL SMITH (WELD TECHNICIAN, JACOBS ESTS GROUP/ALL POINTS) DISPLAYS A HEXAGON THAT WAS FABRICATED FROM FRICTION STIR WELDED PLATES OF 6AL-4V TITANIUM (ELI) USING THERMAL STIR WELDING. THIS WORK WAS PERFORMED FOR A NASA TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER INDUSTRIAL PARTNER (KEYSTONE SYNERGETIC ENTERPRISES, INC.) IN SUPPORT OF A PROJECT FOR THE U.S. NAVY

1001623

NASA Image and Video Library

2010-09-15

ANDRÉ PASEUR (WELD TECHNICIAN, JACOBS ESTS GROUP/ERC) DISPLAYS A HEXAGON THAT WAS FABRICATED FROM FRICTION STIR WELDED PLATES OF 6AL-4V TITANIUM (ELI) USING THERMAL STIR WELDING. THIS WORK WAS PERFORMED FOR A NASA TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER INDUSTRIAL PARTNER (KEYSTONE SYNERGETIC ENTERPRISES, INC.) IN SUPPORT OF A PROJECT FOR THE U.S. NAVY

Acculturation and Maternal Health Behaviors

PubMed Central

Hawkins, Summer Sherburne; Gillman, Matthew W.; Shafer, Emily F.; Cohen, Bruce B.

2014-01-01

Background Although prior studies have shown disparities in maternal health behaviors according to race/ethnicity and acculturation, whether these patterns are evident among new immigrant populations remains unclear. Purpose To examine the associations among proxies of acculturation and maternal smoking during pregnancy and breastfeeding initiation within each major ethnic group in Massachusetts. Methods Data were from the Standard Certificate of Live Births on 1,067,375 babies by mothers from 31 ethnic groups for 1996–2009. Mothers reported whether they smoked during pregnancy and the birth facility recorded whether mothers started breastfeeding. The acculturation proxy combined mothers’ country of birth and language preference: U.S.-born, foreign-born English-speaking, and foreign-born non-English speaking. For each ethnic group, adjusted logistic regression models were conducted to examine associations between the acculturation proxy and whether mothers smoked or initiated breastfeeding. Data were analyzed from 2012 to 2013. Results A lower proportion of foreign-born mothers had a high school degree or private insurance than U.S.-born mothers. However, foreign-born mothers who were English (range of AORs=0.07–0.93) or non-English speakers (AORs=0.01–0.36) were less likely to smoke during pregnancy than their U.S.-born counterparts. Foreign-born mothers who were English (AORs=1.22–6.52) or non-English speakers (AORs=1.35–10.12) were also more likely to initiate breastfeeding compared to U.S.-born mothers, except for some mothers with Asian ethnicities. Conclusions The consistency of the associations of being foreign-born with less smoking and more breastfeeding suggests that for the majority of ethnic groups studied, acculturation in the U.S. results in poorer maternal health behaviors. PMID:24951043

Replacing Alpha-Fetoprotein With Alpha-Fetoprotein-L3 Increases the Sensitivity of Prenatal Screening for Trisomy 21.

PubMed

Huai, Lei; Leng, Jianhang; Ma, Shenglin; Huang, Fang; Shen, Junya; Ding, Yu

This study aimed to investigate the serum concentration of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)-L3 in midterm pregnancies and its potential application in prenatal trisomy screening. The serum samples from 27 women with trisomy 21 fetuses and 800 women with normal fetuses were examined to measure the concentrations of AFP, AFP-L3, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), unconjugated estriol (uE3), and inhibin-A. The screening results of various tests consisting of these markers were analyzed. In normal pregnancies within 15-20 weeks of gestation, the medians of serum AFP-L3 were 4.63, 5.70, 5.78, 6.58, 7.03, and 7.25 pg/mL. The median of AFP-L3 MoM in the trisomy 21 group was 0.46, which was significantly lower than the value of 1 in the normal group (P < 0.05). When using a cutoff value of 1/270, the sensitivity of the triple marker test (AFP, hCG, uE3) was improved from 74% to 81% by replacing AFP with AFP-L3, with the false-positive rate slightly increased from 5.4% to 6.8%. Similarly, the sensitivity of the quad marker test (AFP, hCG, uE3, inhibin-A) was improved from 81% to 89% by replacing AFP with AFP-L3, with the false-positive rate slightly increased from 4.6% to 5.6%. Serum AFP-L3 concentration increases along with more weeks of gestation in the midterm pregnancies. Trisomy 21 screening tests with AFP replaced by AFP-L3 have higher sensitivities at the expense of slightly increased false-positive rates. This improvement in screening may help to better prepare the parents and caregivers for the special needs of newborns with trisomy 21.

Use of activated protein C has no avail in the early phase of acute pancreatitis

PubMed Central

Ozutemiz, Omer; Yenisey, Cigdem; Genc Simsek, Nilufer; Yuce, Gul; Batur, Yucel

2008-01-01

Objectives. Sepsis and acute pancreatitis have similar pathogenetic mechanisms that have been implicated in the progression of multiple organ failure. Drotrecogin alfa, an analogue of endogenous protein C, reduces mortality in clinical sepsis. Our objective was to evaluate the early therapeutic effects of activated protein C (APC) in a rat model of acute necrotizing pancreatitis. Subjects and method. Acute necrotizing pancreatitis was induced by intraductal injection of 5% Na taurocholate. Hourly bolus injections of saline or recombinant human APC (drotrecogin alfa) was commenced via femoral venous catheter four hours after the induction of acute pancreatitis. The experiment was terminated nine hours after pancratitis induction. Animals in group one (n=20) had a sham operation while animals in group two (n=20) received saline and animals in group three (n=20) received drotrecogin alfa boluses after acute pancreatitis induction. Pancreatic tissue for histopathologic scores and myeloperoxidase, glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase activites were collected, and blood for serum amylase, urea, creatinine, and inleukin-6 measurements was withdrawn. Results. Serum amylase activity was significantly lower in the APC treated group than the untreated group (17,435±432 U/L vs. 27,426±118 U/L, respectively). While the serum interleukin-6 concentration in the APC untreated group was significantly lower than the treated group (970±323 pg/mL vs. 330±368 pg/mL, respectively). Conclusion. In the early phase of acute pancreatitis, drotrecogin alfa treatment did not result in a significant improvement in oxidative and inflammatory parameters or renal functions. PMID:19088933

Evaluation of the Efficacy of Highly Hydrophilic Polyurethane Foam Dressing in Treating a Diabetic Foot Ulcer.

PubMed

Jung, Jae-A; Yoo, Ki-Hyun; Han, Seung-Kyu; Dhong, Eun-Sang; Kim, Woo-Kyung

2016-12-01

To demonstrate the efficacy of a highly hydrophilic polyurethane foam dressing in the treatment of diabetic ulcers. Diabetic foot ulcers often pose a difficult treatment problem. Polyurethane foam dressings have been used worldwide to accelerate wound healing, but only a few clinical studies demonstrate the effect of foam dressing on the healing of diabetic ulcers. Medical records of 1342 patients with diabetic ulcers who were admitted and treated at the authors' institution were reviewed. A total of 208 patients met the study's inclusion criteria. Of these 208 patients, 137 were treated with a highly hydrophilic polyurethane foam dressing, and 71 were treated with saline gauze (control group). Except for the application of polyurethane foam dressing, the treatment method was identical for patients in both groups. The wound healing outcomes of the 2 groups were compared. Complete wound healing occurred in 87 patients (63.5%) in the polyurethane foam dressing group and in 28 patients (39.4%) in the control group within 12 weeks (P < .05, X test). The mean percentage of wound area reduction in both groups was statistically significant (P < .05, Mann-Whitney U test). The mean time required for complete closure in patients who achieved complete healing within 12 weeks was 6.2 (SD, 3.4) weeks and 7.3 (SD, 2.6) weeks in the polyurethane foam dressing and control groups, respectively (P < .05, Mann-Whitney U test). These results indicate that the highly hydrophilic polyurethane foam dressing may provide an effective treatment strategy for diabetic foot ulcers.

Phase II randomized trial comparing high-dose IFN-α2b with temozolomide plus cisplatin as systemic adjuvant therapy for resected mucosal melanoma.

PubMed

Lian, Bin; Si, Lu; Cui, Chuanliang; Chi, Zhihong; Sheng, Xinan; Mao, Lili; Li, Siming; Kong, Yan; Tang, Bixia; Guo, Jun

2013-08-15

Mucosal melanoma is rare and associated with extremely poor prognosis. However, standard adjuvant therapy for mucosal melanoma has not been established. We conducted a randomized phase II clinical trial in patients with resected mucosal melanoma to compare the efficacy and safety of high-dose IFN-α2b (HDI) and temozolomide-based chemotherapy as adjuvant therapy. Patients with mucosal melanoma in stage II/III after surgery were randomized into three groups: observation group (group A, surgery alone), HDI group (group B, treated with 15 × 10(6) U/m(2)/d IFN-α2b, followed by 9 × 10(6) U IFN-α2b), and temozolomide (200 mg/m(2)/d) plus cisplatin (75 mg/m(2)) group (group C). The endpoints were relapse-free survival (RFS), overall survival (OS), and toxicities. One hundred and eighty-nine patients were enrolled and finally analyzed. With a median follow-up of 26.8 months, the median RFS was 5.4, 9.4, and 20.8 months for group A, B, and C, respectively. Estimated median OS for group A, B, and C was 21.2, 40.4, and 48.7 months, respectively. Patients treated with temozolomide plus cisplatin showed significant improvements in RFS (P < 0.001) and OS (P < 0.01) than those treated with either HDI or surgery alone. Toxicities were generally mild to moderate. Both temozolomide-based chemotherapy and HDI are effective and safe as adjuvant therapies for resected mucosal melanoma as compared with observation alone. However, HDI tends to be less effective than temozolomide-based chemotherapy for patients with resected mucosal melanoma in respect to RFS. The temozolomide plus cisplatin regimen might be a better choice for patients with resected mucosal melanoma. ©2013 AACR.

Glycaemic control and hypoglycaemia with new insulin glargine 300 U/ml versus insulin glargine 100 U/ml in people with type 2 diabetes using basal insulin and oral antihyperglycaemic drugs: the EDITION 2 randomized 12-month trial including 6-month extension.

PubMed

Yki-Järvinen, H; Bergenstal, R M; Bolli, G B; Ziemen, M; Wardecki, M; Muehlen-Bartmer, I; Maroccia, M; Riddle, M C

2015-12-01

To compare the efficacy and safety of new insulin glargine 300 U/ml (Gla-300) with insulin glargine 100 U/ml (Gla-100) over 12 months of treatment in people with type 2 diabetes using basal insulin and oral antihyperglycaemic drugs (OADs). EDITION 2 (NCT01499095) was a randomized, 6-month, multicentre, open-label, two-arm, phase IIIa study investigating once-daily Gla-300 versus Gla-100, plus OADs (excluding sulphonylureas), with a 6-month safety extension. Similar numbers of participants in each group completed 12 months of treatment [Gla-300, 315 participants (78%); Gla-100, 314 participants (77%)]. The reduction in glycated haemoglobin was maintained for 12 months with both treatments: least squares (LS) mean (standard error) change from baseline -0.55 (0.06)% for Gla-300 and -0.50 (0.06)% for Gla-100; LS mean difference -0.06 [95% confidence interval (CI) -0.22 to 0.10)%]. A significant relative reduction of 37% in the annualized rate of nocturnal confirmed [≤3.9 mmol/l (≤70 mg/dl)] or severe hypoglycaemia was observed with Gla-300 compared with Gla-100: rate ratio 0.63 [(95% CI 0.42-0.96); p = 0.031], and fewer participants experienced ≥1 event [relative risk 0.84 (95% CI 0.71-0.99)]. Severe hypoglycaemia was infrequent. Weight gain was significantly lower with Gla-300 than Gla-100 [LS mean difference -0.7 (95% CI -1.3 to -0.2) kg; p = 0.009]. Both treatments were well tolerated with a similar pattern of adverse events (incidence of 69 and 60% in the Gla-300 and Gla-100 groups). In people with type 2 diabetes treated with Gla-300 or Gla-100, and non-sulphonylurea OADs, glycaemic control was sustained over 12 months, with less nocturnal hypoglycaemia in the Gla-300 group. © 2015 The Authors. Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Moderate Dose of Trolox Preventing the Deleterious Effects of Wi-Fi Radiation on Spermatozoa In vitro through Reduction of Oxidative Stress Damage.

PubMed

Ding, Shang-Shu; Sun, Ping; Zhang, Zhou; Liu, Xiang; Tian, Hong; Huo, Yong-Wei; Wang, Li-Rong; Han, Yan; Xing, Jun-Ping

2018-02-20

The worsening of semen quality, due to the application of Wi-Fi, can be ameliorated by Vitamin E. This study aimed to demonstrate whether a moderate dose of trolox, a new Vitamin E, inhibits oxidative damage on sperms in vitro after exposure to Wi-Fi radiation. Each of the twenty qualified semen, gathered from June to October 2014 in eugenics clinic, was separated into four aliquots, including sham, Wi-Fi-exposed, Wi-Fi plus 5 mmol/L trolox, and Wi-Fi plus 10 mmol/L trolox groups. At 0 min, all baseline parameters of the 20 samples were measured in sequence. Reactive oxygen species, glutathione, and superoxide dismutase were evaluated in the four aliquots at 45 and 90 min, as were sperm DNA fragments, sperm mitochondrial potential, relative amplification of sperm mitochondrial DNA, sperm vitality, and progressive and immotility sperm. The parameters were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance and Tukey's posttest. Among Wi-Fi plus 5 mmol/L trolox, Wi-Fi-exposed and Wi-Fi plus 10 mmol/L trolox groups, reactive oxygen species levels (45 min: 3.80 ± 0.41 RLU·10 -6 ·ml -1 vs. 7.50 ± 0.35 RLU·10 -6 ·ml -1 vs. 6.70 ± 0.47 RLU·10 -6 ·ml -1 , P < 0.001; 90 min: 5.40 ± 0.21 RLU·10 -6 ·ml -1 vs. 10.10 ± 0.31 RLU·10 -6 ·ml -1 vs. 7.00 ± 0.42 RLU·10 -6 ·ml -1 , P < 0.001, respectively), percentages of tail DNA (45 min: 16.8 ± 2.0% vs. 31.9 ± 2.5% vs. 61.3 ± 1.6%, P < 0.001; 90 min: 19.7 ± 1.5% vs. 73.7 ± 1.3% vs. 73.1 ± 1.1%, P < 0.001, respectively), 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (45 min: 51.89 ± 1.46 pg/ml vs. 104.89 ± 2.19 pg/ml vs. 106.11 ± 1.81 pg/ml , P = 0.012; 90 min: 79.96 ± 1.73 pg/ml vs. 141.73 ± 2.90 pg/ml vs. 139.06 ± 2.79 pg/ml; P < 0.001), and percentages of immotility sperm (45 min: 27.7 ± 2.7% vs. 41.7 ± 2.2% vs. 41.7 ± 2.5%; 90 min: 29.9 ± 3.3% vs. 58.9 ± 4.0% vs. 63.1 ± 4.0%; all P < 0.001) were lowest, and glutathione peroxidase (45 min: 60.50 ± 1.54 U/ml vs. 37.09 ± 1.77 U/ml vs. 28.18 ± 1.06 U/ml; 90 min: 44.61 ± 1.23 U/ml vs. 16.86 ± 0.93 U/ml vs. 29.94 ± 1.56 U/ml; all P < 0.001), percentages of head DNA (45 min: 83.2 ± 2.0% vs. 68.2 ± 2.5% vs. 38.8 ± 1.6%; 90 min: 80.3 ± 1.5% vs. 26.3 ± 1.3% vs. 26.9 ± 1.1%; all P < 0.001), percentages of sperm vitality (45 min: 89.5 ± 1.6% vs. 70.7 ± 3.1% vs. 57.7 ± 2.4%; 90 min: 80.8 ± 2.2% vs. 40.4 ± 4.0% vs. 34.7 ± 3.9%; all P < 0.001), and progressive sperm (45 min: 69.3 ± 2.7% vs. 55.8 ± 2.2% vs. 55.4 ± 2.5%; 90 min: 67.2 ± 3.3% vs. 38.2 ± 4.0% vs. 33.9 ± 4.0%; all P < 0.001) were highest in Wi-Fi plus 5 mmol/L trolox group at 45 and 90 min, respectively. Other parameters were not affected, while the sham group maintained the baseline. This study found that 5 mmol/L trolox protected the Wi-Fi-exposed semen in vitro from the damage of electromagnetic radiation-induced oxidative stress.

Moderate Dose of Trolox Preventing the Deleterious Effects of Wi-Fi Radiation on Spermatozoa In vitro through Reduction of Oxidative Stress Damage

PubMed Central

Ding, Shang-Shu; Sun, Ping; Zhang, Zhou; Liu, Xiang; Tian, Hong; Huo, Yong-Wei; Wang, Li-Rong; Han, Yan; Xing, Jun-Ping

2018-01-01

Background: The worsening of semen quality, due to the application of Wi-Fi, can be ameliorated by Vitamin E. This study aimed to demonstrate whether a moderate dose of trolox, a new Vitamin E, inhibits oxidative damage on sperms in vitro after exposure to Wi-Fi radiation. Methods: Each of the twenty qualified semen, gathered from June to October 2014 in eugenics clinic, was separated into four aliquots, including sham, Wi-Fi-exposed, Wi-Fi plus 5 mmol/L trolox, and Wi-Fi plus 10 mmol/L trolox groups. At 0 min, all baseline parameters of the 20 samples were measured in sequence. Reactive oxygen species, glutathione, and superoxide dismutase were evaluated in the four aliquots at 45 and 90 min, as were sperm DNA fragments, sperm mitochondrial potential, relative amplification of sperm mitochondrial DNA, sperm vitality, and progressive and immotility sperm. The parameters were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance and Tukey's posttest. Results: Among Wi-Fi plus 5 mmol/L trolox, Wi-Fi-exposed and Wi-Fi plus 10 mmol/L trolox groups, reactive oxygen species levels (45 min: 3.80 ± 0.41 RLU·10−6·ml−1 vs. 7.50 ± 0.35 RLU·10−6·ml−1 vs. 6.70 ± 0.47 RLU·10−6·ml−1, P < 0.001; 90 min: 5.40 ± 0.21 RLU·10−6·ml−1 vs. 10.10 ± 0.31 RLU·10−6·ml−1 vs. 7.00 ± 0.42 RLU·10−6·ml−1, P < 0.001, respectively), percentages of tail DNA (45 min: 16.8 ± 2.0% vs. 31.9 ± 2.5% vs. 61.3 ± 1.6%, P < 0.001; 90 min: 19.7 ± 1.5% vs. 73.7 ± 1.3% vs. 73.1 ± 1.1%, P < 0.001, respectively), 8-hydroxy-2’-deoxyguanosine (45 min: 51.89 ± 1.46 pg/ml vs. 104.89 ± 2.19 pg/ml vs. 106.11 ± 1.81 pg/ml, P = 0.012; 90 min: 79.96 ± 1.73 pg/ml vs. 141.73 ± 2.90 pg/ml vs. 139.06 ± 2.79 pg/ml; P < 0.001), and percentages of immotility sperm (45 min: 27.7 ± 2.7% vs. 41.7 ± 2.2% vs. 41.7 ± 2.5%; 90 min: 29.9 ± 3.3% vs. 58.9 ± 4.0% vs. 63.1 ± 4.0%; all P < 0.001) were lowest, and glutathione peroxidase (45 min: 60.50 ± 1.54 U/ml vs. 37.09 ± 1.77 U/ml vs. 28.18 ± 1.06 U/ml; 90 min: 44.61 ± 1.23 U/ml vs. 16.86 ± 0.93 U/ml vs. 29.94 ± 1.56 U/ml; all P < 0.001), percentages of head DNA (45 min: 83.2 ± 2.0% vs. 68.2 ± 2.5% vs. 38.8 ± 1.6%; 90 min: 80.3 ± 1.5% vs. 26.3 ± 1.3% vs. 26.9 ± 1.1%; all P < 0.001), percentages of sperm vitality (45 min: 89.5 ± 1.6% vs. 70.7 ± 3.1% vs. 57.7 ± 2.4%; 90 min: 80.8 ± 2.2% vs. 40.4 ± 4.0% vs. 34.7 ± 3.9%; all P < 0.001), and progressive sperm (45 min: 69.3 ± 2.7% vs. 55.8 ± 2.2% vs. 55.4 ± 2.5%; 90 min: 67.2 ± 3.3% vs. 38.2 ± 4.0% vs. 33.9 ± 4.0%; all P < 0.001) were highest in Wi-Fi plus 5 mmol/L trolox group at 45 and 90 min, respectively. Other parameters were not affected, while the sham group maintained the baseline. Conclusion: This study found that 5 mmol/L trolox protected the Wi-Fi-exposed semen in vitro from the damage of electromagnetic radiation-induced oxidative stress. PMID:29451144

DDN (Defense Data Network) New User Guide

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-11-01

0 -944604-00- 5 ,X UNIX is a registered trademark of AT&T Bell Laboratories...21 S 0 0 N S MR A 0w l.a. . ,d. s:’V * ,t*. P.. 0 64 INDEX Access Code 14, 24 Host computer 5 , 6 Acoustic coupler 18 Hostname 16 AMC 50 ARPANET...groups. U DTIC0 0 I NI ’u1ld 1A LJ ; .:r .: ,c d - J•,:: •’: ,, ,:.3 . I1..... .. < , • .. _’’ "LY"_."_,...! ( • ••: •,a•.. -•.¢."....

Biochemical and nutritional markers and antioxidant activity in metabolic syndrome.

PubMed

Bernabé García, Juana; Zafrilla Rentero, Pilar; Mulero Cánovas, Juana; Gómez Jara, Purificación; Leal Hernández, Mariano; Abellán Alemán, José

2014-01-01

1) Nutritional assessment of the diet followed by patients with metabolic syndrome, and 2) biochemical analysis of the oxidation-reduction level in patients with metabolic syndrome. A cross-sectional study was conducted in patients with metabolic syndrome in Murcia. Fifty-three patients, 33 with and 20 without (control group) metabolic syndrome, were selected. The intervention consisted of completion of a recall survey and a test to nutritionally assess dietary intake. Anthropometric and laboratory variables, including those related to antioxidant activity, were also tested. Antioxidant activity was within normal limits in both groups (1.7 ± 0.2 mmol/L in the control group and 1.8 ± 0.1 mmol/L in the metabolic syndrome group) (NS). Superoxide dismutase levels were not significantly different between the groups. Mean glutathione reductase levels (U/L) were higher in the control group as compared to patients with metabolic syndrome (P<.05). As regards oxidative stress biomarkers, mean isoprostane levels were higher in the control group (4.9 ± 6.2 ng/mL) than in metabolic syndrome patients (3.5 ± 3.9 ng/mL) (P<.05). Oxidized LDL values tended to be higher in metabolic syndrome patients (96 ± 23.2U/L) as compared to the control group (86.2 ± 17.3 U/L), but differences were not significant. There is a trend to a poorer nutritional and biochemical profile in patients with metabolic syndrome, who also tend to have a greater degree of oxidative stress. Copyright © 2013 SEEN. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

Pre-transplant soluble CD30 level as a predictor of not only acute rejection and graft loss but pneumonia in renal transplant recipients.

PubMed

Wang, Dong; Wu, Wei-Zhen; Chen, Jin-Hua; Yang, Shun-Liang; Wang, Qing-Hua; Zeng, Zhang-Xin; Tan, Jian-Ming

2010-02-01

Pre-transplant sera of 586 renal graft recipients were tested to investigate whether soluble CD30 (sCD30) is a useful predictor of some severe clinical episodes post-transplant. Correlation analysis showed sCD30 level was significantly correlated with acute rejection (AR) (r=0.242, P<0.001), graft loss (r=0.162, P<0.001), and pneumonia (r=-0.147, P<0.001). Higher sCD30 levels were observed in patients with AR than the others (180.0+/-89.1 vs. 135.3+/-72.7U/ml, P<0.001). And patients with pneumonia had significantly lower pre-transplant sCD30 level than the others (123.2+/-75.5 vs. 150.7+/-79.6U/ml, P=0.003). Based on statistical results, 120 and 240U/ml were selected as the optimal couple of cut-off value to divide patients into three groups: Group High (H), Group Intermedial (I) and Group Low (L). The lowest AR rate of 17.4% was observed in Group L (P<0.001). Significant difference of AR rate was also observed between Group I (29.2%) and H (42.9%) (P<0.001). There were much more patients suffering pneumonia in Group L (P=0.001). Significantly lower 5-year patient survival rate (79.4%) was observed in Group H (P=0.016). These data showed that elevated pre-transplant sCD30 level of renal allograft recipients may reflect an immune state detrimental for renal allograft survival. But sCD30 level lower than <120U/ml may be associated with a high risk of pneumonia. Pre-transplant sCD30 level is an independent predictor of acute rejection, lung infection, even graft survival. Suitable immunosuppression protocol should be selected according to pre-transplant sCD30 level in an attempt to promote patient and graft survival. Copyright 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Rb-Sr and Sm-Nd Isotopic Studies of Martian Depleted Shergottes SaU 094/005

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shih, C.-Y.; Nyquist, L. E.; Reese, Y.

2007-01-01

Sayh al Uhaymir (SaU) 094 and SaU 005 are olivine-phyric shergottites from the Oman desert and are considered as pairs. [e.g., 1]. They are very similar to the Libyan desert shergottite Dar al Gani (DaG) 476 in petrology, chemistry and ejection age [2-6]. This group of shergottites, also recognized as depleted shergottites [e.g. 7] has been strongly shocked and contains very low abundances of light rare earth elements (REE). In addition, terrestrial contaminants are commonly present in meteorites found in desert environments. Age-dating these samples is very challenging, but lower calcite contents in the SaU meteorites suggest that they have been subjected to less severe desert weathering than their DaG counterparts [3-4]. In this report, we present Rb-Sr and Sm-Nd isotopic results for SaU 094 and SaU 005, discuss the correlation of their ages with those of other similar shergottites, and discuss their petrogenesis.

Implementation of a Zilog Z-80 Base Realization Library for the Computer Systems Design Environment.

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-03-01

o the At I nMional Symposi u!9 on r -2r RLm-9rjatign LiongUigea, IEEE Computer Society, October 8, 1979 . 1S. Rome Air Development Center RADc-TR-79-6...a On CS * r . 13 Lolw a 6-0 A A0 C 0 4-SSao~t 0 0 1 -- ;*U a 4. . 1 0- a C1 C 6. 04 L 6 0 OUS U- r G OO C rC 100- ONC40 -Wo 0060- i 40C 1 .0*6 U lh0...aa > >oIL O > 0 Uf~0-~IU4’ EL 6. . V 6.L2 CC~ 000’U~66 A CL v 11 13 a a oi co ’D 4 1. u r . c O U I 6 -f 21 06U a4’L3 cl c 4 . - c a 1 0 U 62 6 0. 11

Differential effects of hGH and IGF-I on body proportions.

PubMed

Laron, Zvi; Silbergeld, Aviva; Kauli, Rivka

2012-07-01

The differential growth effects of hGH and IGF-I on the upper/lower (U/L) body segment in relation to height (Ht) were analyzed in 15 patients with isolated Growth hormone deficiency (IGHD,:7M, 8F) mean age 5.0 +/- 3.2 (SD) years treated with hGH; 21 patients with multiple pituitary hormone deficiency including growth hormone (MPHD: 14M, 7F) aged 10.0 +/- 3.8, treated with hGH; 9 patients with Laron Syndrome (LS) (4M,5F) aged 6.9 +/- 5.6 years treated with IGF-I; 9 boys with intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) aged 6.3 +/- 1.25 years treated by hGH; and 22 boys with idiopathic short stature (ISS) aged 8.0 +/- 1.55 years treated by hGH. The dose of hGH was 33 microg/kg/day, that of IGF-I 180-200 microg/kg/day. the U/L body segment ratio in IGHD patients decreased from 2.3 +/- 0.7 to 1.1 +/- 0.7 (p <0.001), and the Ht SDS increased from -4.9 +/- 1.3 to 2.3 +/- 1 (p < 0.001) following treatment. In MPHD patients the U/L body segment decreased from 1.1 +/- 1.1 to -0.6 +/- 1.0 (p < 0.001), and the Ht SDS increased from -3.3 +/- 1.4 to -2.5 +/- 1.0 (p < 0.009). In the LS group the U/L body segment ratio did not change with IGF-I treatment but Ht improved from -6.1 +/- 1.3 to -4.6 +/- 1.2 (p < 0.001), The differential growth response of the children with IUGR and with ISS resembled that of the children with LS. hGH and IGF-I act differentially on the spine and limbs.

Pentavalent and tetravalent uranium selenides, Tl3Cu4USe6 and Tl2Ag2USe4: syntheses, characterization, and structural comparison to other layered actinide chalcogenide compounds.

PubMed

Bugaris, Daniel E; Choi, Eun Sang; Copping, Roy; Glans, Per-Anders; Minasian, Stefan G; Tyliszczak, Tolek; Kozimor, Stosh A; Shuh, David K; Ibers, James A

2011-07-18

The compounds Tl(3)Cu(4)USe(6) and Tl(2)Ag(2)USe(4) were synthesized by the reaction of the elements in excess TlCl at 1123 K. Both compounds crystallize in new structure types, in space groups P2(1)/c and C2/m, respectively, of the monoclinic system. Each compound contains layers of USe(6) octahedra and MSe(4) (M = Cu, Ag) tetrahedra, separated by Tl(+) cations. The packing of the octahedra and the tetrahedra within the layers is compared to the packing arrangements found in other layered actinide chalcogenides. Tl(3)Cu(4)USe(6) displays peaks in its magnetic susceptibility at 5 and 70 K. It exhibits modified Curie-Weiss paramagnetic behavior with an effective magnetic moment of 1.58(1) μ(B) in the temperature range 72-300 K, whereas Tl(2)Ag(2)USe(4) exhibits modified Curie-Weiss paramagnetic behavior with μ(eff) = 3.4(1) μ(B) in the temperature range 100-300 K. X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) results from scanning transmission X-ray spectromicroscopy confirm that Tl(3)Cu(4)USe(6) has Se bonding characteristic of discrete Se(2-) units, Cu bonding generally representative of Cu(+), and U bonding consistent with a U(4+) or U(5+) species. On the basis of these measurements, as well as bonding arguments, the formal oxidation states for U may be assigned as +5 in Tl(3)Cu(4)USe(6) and +4 in Tl(2)Ag(2)USe(4).

Stimulation of Pol III-dependent 5S rRNA and U6 snRNA gene expression by AP-1 transcription factors.

PubMed

Ahuja, Richa; Kumar, Vijay

2017-07-01

RNA polymerase III transcribes structurally diverse group of essential noncoding RNAs including 5S ribosomal RNA (5SrRNA) and U6 snRNA. These noncoding RNAs are involved in RNA processing and ribosome biogenesis, thus, coupling Pol III activity to the rate of protein synthesis, cell growth, and proliferation. Even though a few Pol II-associated transcription factors have been reported to participate in Pol III-dependent transcription, its activation by activator protein 1 (AP-1) factors, c-Fos and c-Jun, has remained unexplored. Here, we show that c-Fos and c-Jun bind to specific sites in the regulatory regions of 5S rRNA (type I) and U6 snRNA (type III) gene promoters and stimulate their transcription. Our chromatin immunoprecipitation studies suggested that endogenous AP-1 factors bind to their cognate promoter elements during the G1/S transition of cell cycle apparently synchronous with Pol III transcriptional activity. Furthermore, the interaction of c-Jun with histone acetyltransferase p300 promoted the recruitment of p300/CBP complex on the promoters and facilitated the occupancy of Pol III transcriptional machinery via histone acetylation and chromatin remodeling. The findings of our study, together, suggest that AP-1 factors are novel regulators of Pol III-driven 5S rRNA and U6 snRNA expression with a potential role in cell proliferation. © 2017 Federation of European Biochemical Societies.

Epidemiologic Observations on Diarrhea Developing in U.S. and Mexican Students Living in Guadalajara, Mexico.

PubMed

Ericsson; DuPont; Mathewson

1995-03-01

Background: A previous study suggested that U.S. students who lived in Mexico for 1 year had a risk of diarrhea intermediate between the rate for newly arrived U.S. students and Mexican students; however, the study was not controlled for changes of risky behavior over time. Methods: An analysis of acute diarrhea occurring among U.S. and Mexican student groups living in Guadalajara, Mexico was conducted to explore the association of diarrhea developing during selected 28-day periods with length of residence, season, and risk factors such as locations of food consumption, consumption of tap water, unsafe ice, alcohol, and antibiotics. Results: Compared to U.S. and Mexican student groups, newly arrived U.S. college students in July had the highest rate of diarrhea (55%), highest enteropathogen isolation rate (46%), and most consumption of alcohol and antibiotics; they also ate most frequently at restaurants and in Mexican family homes. Compared to a 34% rate of diarrhea among newly arrived U.S. medical students in August, the rate was only 6% among established medical students in January. This drop in attack rate was attended by less tap water and unsafe ice consumption by established students in January compared to the habits of newly arrived students in January or August when risky behavior was otherwise similar among these groups. The role of tap water and unsafe ice in the acquisition of wintertime diarrhea is further supported by the relatively high 29% rate of diarrhea among U.S. medical students newly arrived in January, who also consumed more tap water and ice than established students in January. Enterotoxigenic E. coli disease was observed only during the summer months; whereas, Campylobacter jejuni disease and disease associated with no detected pathogen were more common in winter. Conclusions: These data imply that wintertime diarrhea in Guadalajara is more likely than summertime diarrhea to be waterborne and to be caused by agents such as viruses or previously unrecognized enteropathogens that were not assessed in this study. Among Mexican students who had the highest frequency of tap water consumption and eating from vendors, the low rates of diarrhea in summer (3%) and winter (5%) imply that they enjoy a substantial degree of immunity. Further study will be necessary to understand the role that immunity (or its loss during summer vacation back in the United States) might play in additionally accounting for observed differences in attack rates between newly arrived students and those who had lived for a period of time in Mexico. (J Travel Med 2:6-10, 1995)

Effects of Minocycline on Urine Albumin, Interleukin-6, and Osteoprotegerin in Patients with Diabetic Nephropathy: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial

PubMed Central

Wang, Ying; Tong, Lili; Pak, Youngju; Andalibi, Ali; LaPage, Janine A.; Adler, Sharon G.

2016-01-01

Background We tested minocycline as an anti-proteinuric adjunct to renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors (RAASi) in diabetic nephropathy (DN) and measured urinary biomarkers to evaluate minocycline’s biological effects. Methods Design: Prospective, single center, randomized, placebo-controlled, intention-to-treat pilot trial. Inclusion. Type 2 diabetes/DN; Baseline creatinine clearance > 30 mL/min; proteinuria ≥ 1.0 g/day; Age ≥30 years; BP <150/95 mm Hg; intolerant of/at maximum RAASi dose. Protocol. 3-wk screening; Baseline randomization; Urine and blood measures at months 1, 2, 4, and Month 6 study completion. Urine interleukin-6 (IL-6) and osteoprotegerin were measured in a subset. Primary outcome. Natural log of urine protein/creatinine (ln U P:Cr) ratio at Month 6 vs Baseline. Results 30 patients completed the study. The 15% decline in U P: Cr in minocycline patients (6 month P:Cr ÷ Baseline P:Cr, 0.85 vs. 0.92) was not significant (p = 0.27). Creatinine clearance did not differ in the 2 groups. Urine IL-6:Cr (p = 0.03) and osteoprotegerin/Cr (p = 0.046) decrements were significant. Minocycline modified the relationship between urine IL-6 and proteinuria, suggesting a protective biological effect. Conclusions Although the decline in U P:Cr in minocycline patients was not statistically significant, the significant differences in urine IL-6 and osteoprotegerin suggest that minocycline may confer cytoprotection in patients with DN, providing a rationale for further study. Trial Registration Clinicaltrials.gov NCT01779089 PMID:27019421

Molecular structures and antiproliferative activity of side-chain saturated and homologated analogs of 2-chloro-3-(n-alkylamino)-1,4-napthoquinone

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pal, Sanjima; Jadhav, Mahesh; Weyhermüller, Thomas; Patil, Yogesh; Nethaji, M.; Kasabe, Umesh; Kathawate, Laxmi; Konkimalla, V. Badireenath; Salunke-Gawali, Sunita

2013-10-01

Side chain homologated derivatives of 2-chloro-3-(n-alkylamino)-1,4-naphthoquinone {n-alkyl: pentyl; L-5, hexyl; L-6, heptyl; L-7 and octyl; L-8} have been synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, FT-IR, 1H NMR, UV-visible spectroscopy and LC-MS. Compounds, L-4, {n-alkyl: butyl; L-4}, L-6 and L-8 have been characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction studies. The single crystal X-ray structures reveal that L-4 and L-8 crystallizes in P21 space group, while L-6 in P21/c space group. Molecules of L-4 and L-8 from polymeric chains through Csbnd H⋯O and Nsbnd H⋯O close contacts. L-6 is a dimer formed by Nsbnd H⋯O interaction. Slipped π-π stacking interactions are observed between quinonoid and benzenoid rings of L-4 and L-8. Orientations of alkyl group in L-4 and L-8 is on same side of the chain and polymeric chains run opposite to one another to form zip like structure to the alkyl groups. Antiproliferative activities of L-1 to L-8{n-alkyl: methyl; L-1, ethyl; L-2, propyl; L-3 and butyl; L-4} were studied in cancer cells of colon (COLO205), brain (U87MG) and pancreas (MIAPaCa2) where L-1, L-2 and L-3 were active in MIAPaCa2 (L-1 = L-2 > L-3) and COLO205 (L-2 = L-3 > L-1) and inactive in U87MG. From antiproliferative studies with compounds L-1 to L-8 it can be concluded that homologation of 2-chloro-3-(n-alkylamino)-1,4-napthoquinone with saturated methyl groups yielded tissue specific compounds such as L-2 (for MIAPaCa2) and L-3 (for COLO205) with optimal activity.

Steroid eye drop treatment (difluprednate ophthalmic emulsion) is effective in reducing refractory diabetic macular edema.

PubMed

Nakano, Sakiko; Yamamoto, Teiko; Kirii, Eriko; Abe, Sachi; Yamashita, Hidetoshi

2010-06-01

To evaluate the efficacy of treatment of refractory diabetic macular edema (DME) after vitrectomy with difluprednate ophthalmic emulsion 0.05% (Durezol(TM)), and to compare this treatment with sub-Tenon's injection of triamcinolone (STTA). This study enrolled patients with refractory diabetic macular edema that persisted despite pars plana vitrectomy in our clinic. In all subjects, more than 3 months had passed since prior treatment. Eleven eyes in ten subjects were treated with STTA (STTA group), and 11 eyes in seven subjects were treated with difluprednate ophthalmic emulsion 0.05% (Durezol(TM), Sirion Therapeutics Inc., USA) 4 times daily for the first month and then twice daily for 2 months (eye drop group). In the eye drop group, mean VA (+/- SD) was 0.67 +/- 0.35 logMAR and mean retinal thickness was 500.6 +/- 207.7 mum at baseline. After 3 months of treatment, mean VA was 0.67 +/- 0.29 and mean retinal thickness had decreased to 341.2 +/- 194.8 mum. The mean minimum value of RT during the treatment period was 300.6 +/- 123.2 mum, and significantly lower than that at baseline (Mann-Whitney U test: P = 0.003). In the STTA group, mean VA (+/- SD) was 0.67 +/- 0.35 logMAR, and mean retinal thickness was 543.3 +/- 132.6 mum at baseline. After 3 months of treatment, mean VA was 0.49 +/- 0.67, and mean retinal thickness had decreased to 378.6 +/- 135 mum. The mean minimum value of RT during the treatment period was 349.9 +/- 113.8 mum, and significantly lower than at baseline (Mann-Whitney U test: P = 0.003). The rate of effective improvement in RT did not differ between the eye drop group (73%) and STTA group (84%) (Fisher's exact test: P = 1). Comparable improvements of retinal thickness were observed in the STTA and eye drop groups. Instillation of difluprednate ophthalmic emulsion 0.05% is a safe and effective treatment that does not require surgical intervention and does not produce severe side-effects.

Comparison of Exoelectrogenic Bacteria Detected Using Two Different Methods: U-tube Microbial Fuel Cell and Plating Method

PubMed Central

Yu, Jaecheul; Cho, Sunja; Kim, Sunah; Cho, Haein; Lee, Taeho

2012-01-01

In a microbial fuel cell (MFC), exoelectrogens, which transfer electrons to the electrode, have been regarded as a key factor for electricity generation. In this study, U-tube MFC and plating methods were used to isolate exoelectrogens from the anode of an MFC. Disparate microorganisms were identified depending on isolation methods, despite the use of an identical source. Denaturing gel gradient electrophoresis (DGGE) analysis showed that certain microorganisms became dominant in the U-tube MFC. The predominant bacterium was similar to Ochrobactrum sp., belonging to the Alphaproteobacteria, which was shown to be able to function as an exoelectrogen in a previous study. Three isolates, one affiliated with Bacillus sp. and two with Paenibacillus sp., were identified using the plating method, which belonged to the Gram-positive bacteria, the Firmicutes. The U-tube MFCs were inoculated with the three isolates using the plating method, operated in the batch mode and the current was monitored. All of the U-tube MFCs inoculated with each isolate after isolation from plates produced lower current (peak current density: 3.6–16.3 mA/m2) than those in U-tube MFCs with mixed culture (48.3–62.6 mA/m2). Although the isolates produced low currents, various bacterial groups were found to be involved in current production. PMID:22129603

REPORT OF THE SNOWMASS M6 WORKING GROUP ON HIGH INTENSITY PROTON SOURCES.

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

CHOU,W.; WEI,J.

The M6 working group had more than 40 active participants (listed in Section 4). During the three weeks at Snowmass, there were about 50 presentations, covering a wide range of topics associated with high intensity proton sources. The talks are listed in Section 5. This group also had joint sessions with a number of other working groups, including E1 (Neutrino Factories and Muon Colliders), E5 (Fixed-Target Experiments), M1 (Muon Based Systems), T4 (Particle Sources), T5 (Beam dynamics), T7 (High Performance Computing) and T9 (Diagnostics). The M6 group performed a survey of the beam parameters of existing and proposed high intensitymore » proton sources, in particular, of the proton drivers. The results are listed in Table 1. These parameters are compared with the requirements of high-energy physics users of secondary beams in Working Groups E1 and E5. According to the consensus reached in the E1 and E5 groups, the U.S. HEP program requires an intense proton source, a 1-4 MW Proton Driver, by the end of this decade.« less

[Effects of work-related medical rehabilitation in patients with musculoskeletal disorders].

PubMed

Streibelt, M; Hansmeier, T; Müller-Fahrnow, W

2006-06-01

A work-related orientation within medical rehabilitation represents concepts with a stronger focus on the patient's individual vocational requirements and is based on different vocationally-orientated strategies of treatment. "Medical Occupational Orientation" ("Medizinisch-berufliche Orientierung", MBO), the model of Klinik Niedersachsen in Bad Nenndorf, places Functional Capacity Evaluation according to Susan Isernhagen (EFL) at the centre of rehabilitation diagnostics and therapy. This study investigates the effects of the MBO model relative to activities and vocational participation of patients with musculoskeletal disorders faced with vocational problems and on management at the interface between medical and vocational rehabilitation. Presented are findings of a randomized follow-up study aimed at evaluating the MBO model. A total of 494 patients of LVA Westfalen, a regional insurance agency, took part. A need for MBO was diagnosed for 222 patients. These patients were randomly assigned either to the MBO model of treatment (experimental group --> U[+]) or to the conventional medical treatment (control group --> K[+]). Patients without a need for MBO (U[-], K[-]) were treated likewise. The written questionings took place at the beginning (t (1)) and end of rehabilitation (t (2)), as well as six (t (3)) and twelve months (t (4)) after the patients' discharge. Currently, the results are based on the 6-month follow-up. Concerning the activities, an MBO-related effect in the experimental group (U[+]) has been found for the Pain Disability Index (PDI), effect sizes being d (u+) = 0.82; d (k+) = 0.17. The risk of unemployment six months after rehabilitation is decreased for MBO(+) patients who participated in the MBO model. In addition, the clinic can make effective prognosis concerning subsequent participation in vocational rehabilitation for both experimental groups (U[+], U[-]). Established for the first time in a randomized controlled trial, the findings presented show that patients with musculoskeletal disorders who are faced with particular vocational problems will achieve significantly better results concerning activities and vocational reintegration if their medical rehabilitation had been based upon an EFL-centred MBO approach.

Comparative efficacy of two dosages of recombinant hepatitis B vaccine in healthy adolescents in India.

PubMed

Velu, Vijayakumar; Nandakumar, Subhadra; Shanmugam, Saravanan; Shankar, Esaki Muthu; Thangavel, Sundararajan; Kulkarni, Prasad Suryakant; Thyagarajan, Sadras Panchatcharam

2007-11-01

Inclusion of hepatitis B vaccine in the Universal Programme of Immunization of all Asian and African countries is hampered by the economic burden on the health budget because of the cost of hepatitis B vaccines. Here we evaluated the immunogenicity, safety, efficacy, and the persistence of antibody to hepatitis B surface antigen (anti-HBs) titers of a new and a low cost recombinant hepatitis B vaccine GeneVac B, with 2 different dosages in healthy adolescents in India. GeneVac-B, a recombinant hepatitis B vaccine (Serum Institute of India, Pune, India), was administered in 10 or 20 microg dose intramuscularly to 2 groups of 100 healthy school-going adolescents at 0-, 1-, and 6-month intervals, who were followed up for 1 year. Group I received 20 mug doses whereas Group II received 10 mug doses. Blood samples were collected 1 month after each dose and 1 year after the third dose. The anti-HBs titers were assayed using commercially available kits to assess the immunogenicity of the 2 dosage schedules. Safety studies were also carried out. The geometric mean titer value of the anti-HBs titer 1 month after the third dose was 2629 (mlU/mL) in Group I and 1373 mlU/mL for Group II subjects. One year after the third dose, the persistence of anti-HBs in those who had received 20 mug was 2262 mlU/mL whereas it was 1039 mlU/mL in the group receiving 10 microg doses. All the subjects in both the groups were seroprotected at 1 year after vaccination. None of the vaccinees exhibited serious adverse reactions throughout the study period. The study demonstrated the immunogenicity of the recombinant hepatitis B vaccine, and confirms that the 0.5 mL (10 microg) dose of GeneVac B can be administered with satisfactory safety and immunogenicity to adolescents up to 19 years of age, reducing the cost to less than U.S. $1.00 per dose making it acceptable for the Universal Programme of Immunization of developing and under developed countries.

Microbiology of the lower genital tract in postmenarchal adolescent girls: differences by sexual activity, contraception, and presence of nonspecific vaginitis.

PubMed

Shafer, M A; Sweet, R L; Ohm-Smith, M J; Shalwitz, J; Beck, A; Schachter, J

1985-12-01

The prevalence of selected microorganisms in the lower genital tract in postmenarchal adolescent girls was assessed, including vaginal Gardnerella vaginalis, group B streptococcus, lactobacillus, Mycoplasma species, Ureaplasma urealyticum, Staphylococcus aureus, and yeast, and endocervical Mycoplasma species, U. urealyticum, Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and Trichomonas vaginalis. Specific attention was focused on important sexually transmitted disease organisms, and differences in isolations by age, sexual activity, ethnicity, contraception, and the diagnosis of nonspecific vaginitis were measured. Sexually active subjects had a mean of 6.05 organisms (SD = 3.16), compared with 3.12 organisms (SD = 3.92) in non-sexually active subjects (P = 0.001). Sexually active subjects had significantly more vaginal G. vaginalis, lactobacilli, Mycoplasma species, and U. urealyticum, as well as endocervical Mycoplasma species and U. urealyticum, compared with non-sexually active subjects; C. trachomatis, N. gonorrhoea, and T. vaginalis were isolated exclusively from the sexually active group. Significant differences in isolation rates by ethnicity were found in vaginal Mycoplasma species and U. urealyticum, and endocervical Mycoplasma species, U. urealyticum, C. trachomatis, N. gonorrhoeae, and T. vaginalis. In general, organisms were isolated from blacks most frequently; N. gonorrhoea was isolated from blacks exclusively. Differences were found in microbiologic isolations by the presence or absence of nonspecific vaginitis. Vaginal G. vaginalis and Mycoplasma species and endocervical Mycoplasma species and U. urealyticum were found significantly more often in isolates from the group with nonspecific vaginitis. It is important to define the microbial flora of the lower genital tract in adolescent girls in order to understand its role in the pathogenesis of acute salpingitis.

Supersymmetric solutions of the cosmological, gauged, ℂ magic model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chimento, Samuele; Ortín, Tomás; Ruipérez, Alejandro

2018-05-01

We construct supersymmetric solutions of theories of gauged N = 1 , d = 5 supergravity coupled to vector multiplets with a U(1)R Abelian (Fayet-Iliopoulos) gauging and an independent SU(2) gauging associated to an SU(2) isometry group of the Real Special scalar manifold. These theories provide minimal supersymmetrizations of 5-dimensional SU(2) Einstein-Yang-Mills theories with negative cosmological constant. We consider a minimal model with these gauge groups and the "magic model" based on the Jordan algebra J 3 ℂ with gauge group SU(3) × U(1)R, which is a consistent truncation of maximal SO(6)-gauged supergravity in d = 5 and whose solutions can be embedded in Type IIB Superstring Theory. We find several solutions containing selfdual SU(2) instantons, some of which asymptote to AdS5 and some of which are very small, supersymmetric, deformations of AdS5. We also show how some of those solutions can be embedded in Romans' SU(2) × U(1)-gauged half-maximal supergravity, which was obtained by Lu, Pope and Tran by compactification of the Type IIB Superstring effective action. This provides another way of uplifting those solutions to 10 dimensions.

A Fractional Step Theta-Method for Viscoelastic Fluid Flow Using a UPG Approximation

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-10-01

dtu (n+1) − u(n+ 1 2) t ,v ) + ( θ̃σ(n+θ) + θσ(n+1) − σ(n+ 1 2),d(v) ) + 2α̃ ( θd(u(n+1)) + θ̃d(u(n+θ))− d ( u(n+ 1 2) ) ,d(v) ) , ∀ v ∈ Zh. (6.6...both sides (6.11) giving Bn5 (u,v) = ( f(n+ 1 2 −θ),v ) + ( p(n+ 1 2 −θ),∇ · v ) + In5 (v). (6.12) Here we define In5 (v) := Re ( dtu (n+θ̃) − u(n+ 1 2...Bn6 (u,v) to both sides of (6.18) we obtain: Bn6 (u,v) = ( f(n+θ− 1 2),v ) + ( p(n+θ− 1 2),∇ · v ) + In6 (v), ∀v ∈ Zh, (6.19) with In6 (v) := Re ( dtu

U6 small nuclear RNA is transcribed by RNA polymerase III.

PubMed Central

Kunkel, G R; Maser, R L; Calvet, J P; Pederson, T

1986-01-01

A DNA fragment homologous to U6 small nuclear RNA was isolated from a human genomic library and sequenced. The immediate 5'-flanking region of the U6 DNA clone had significant homology with a potential mouse U6 gene, including a "TATA box" at a position 26-29 nucleotides upstream from the transcription start site. Although this sequence element is characteristic of RNA polymerase II promoters, the U6 gene also contained a polymerase III "box A" intragenic control region and a typical run of five thymines at the 3' terminus (noncoding strand). The human U6 DNA clone was accurately transcribed in a HeLa cell S100 extract lacking polymerase II activity. U6 RNA transcription in the S100 extract was resistant to alpha-amanitin at 1 microgram/ml but was completely inhibited at 200 micrograms/ml. A comparison of fingerprints of the in vitro transcript and of U6 RNA synthesized in vivo revealed sequence congruence. U6 RNA synthesis in isolated HeLa cell nuclei also displayed low sensitivity to alpha-amanitin, in contrast to U1 and U2 RNA transcription, which was inhibited greater than 90% at 1 microgram/ml. In addition, U6 RNA synthesized in isolated nuclei was efficiently immunoprecipitated by an antibody against the La antigen, a protein known to bind most other RNA polymerase III transcripts. These results establish that, in contrast to the polymerase II-directed transcription of mammalian genes for U1-U5 small nuclear RNAs, human U6 RNA is transcribed by RNA polymerase III. Images PMID:3464970

NTP toxicology and carcinogenesis studies of decalin (CAS No. 91-17-8) in F344/N rats and B6C3F(1) mice and a toxicology study of decalin in male NBR rats (inhalation studies).

PubMed

2005-01-01

Decalin is used as an industrial solvent for naphthalene, fats, resins, oils, and waxes. It is also used as a substitute for turpentine in lacquers, paints, and varnishes; as a solvent and stabilizer for shoe polishes and floor waxes; and as a constituent of motor fuels and lubricants. Other applications include use as a paint thinner and remover, a patent fuel in stoves, a high-density fuel in submarine-launched cruise missile systems, and in stain removal and cleaning machinery. Decalin was nominated for study by the National Cancer Institute because of its chemical structure, its potential for consumer exposure, and a lack of adequate testing of the chemical. Male and female F344/N rats and B6C3F(1) mice were exposed to decalin (greater than 99% pure) by inhalation for 2 weeks, 3 months, or 2 years. Groups of male NBR rats were exposed to decalin for 2 weeks. Male NBR rats do not produce alpha2u-globulin; the NBR rats were included to study the relationship of alpha2u-globulin and renal lesion induction. Genetic toxicology studies were conducted in Salmonella typhimurium and mouse peripheral blood erythrocytes. 2-WEEK STUDIES IN RATS: Groups of five male and five female F344/N rats and five male NBR rats were exposed to 0, 25, 50, 100, 200, or 400 ppm decalin vapor 6 hours per day, 5 days per week for 16 days. All rats survived to the end of the study, and mean body weights of exposed groups were similar to those of the chamber controls. Renal toxicity studies were performed in male F344/N and NBR rats. The numbers of labeled cells and the labeling indices in the left kidney of 200 and 400 ppm F344/N male rats were significantly greater than those in the chamber controls. The alpha2u-globulin/soluble protein ratios were significantly increased in all exposed groups of F344/N rats. Liver weights of male F344/N and NBR rats exposed to 100 ppm or greater were significantly increased, as were those of all exposed groups of females. Kidney weights of male F344/N rats exposed to 50 ppm or greater were significantly increased. Exposure-related hyaline droplet accumulation, degeneration and regeneration of renal cortical tubules, and granular casts occurred in the kidney of exposed F344/N male rats. 2-WEEK STUDIES IN MICE: Groups of five male and five female B6C3F(1) mice were exposed to 0, 25, 50, 100, 200, or 400 ppm decalin vapor 6 hours per day, 5 days per week for 17 days. All mice survived to the end of the study, and mean body weights of exposed groups were similar to those of the chamber control groups. Liver weights of 200 and 400 ppm males and females and 100 ppm females were significantly increased. 3-MONTH STUDY IN RATS: Groups of 25 male and 20 female F344/N rats were exposed to 0, 25, 50, 100, 200, or 400 ppm decalin vapor 6 hours per day, 5 days per week for 2 (five male renal toxicity rats), 6 (10 male and 10 female clinical pathology rats), or 14 (10 core study rats) weeks. All rats survived to the end of the study, and mean body weights of exposed groups were similar to those of the chamber control groups. Urinalysis results indicated that decalin exposure caused increases in urine glucose and protein concentrations and enzyme activities that were consistent with the renal lesions observed microscopically. Renal toxicity studies were performed on rats sacrificed at 2 and 6 weeks and at the end of the study. In kidney tissue examined for cell proliferation, the numbers of PCNA-labeled cells and labeling indices were generally significantly greater than those of the chamber controls in exposed groups of rats at all three time points. Concentrations of alpha2u-globulin in the kidney as well as the alpha2u-globulin/soluble protein ratios were significantly increased at week 2 in all exposed groups and in the 200 and 400 ppm groups at week 6 and at the end of the study. Absolute and/or relative kidney and liver weights of male rats exposed to 50 ppm or greater were increased. Incidences of renal tubule regeneration and granular casts in the medulla of the kidney in exposed male rats were increased, and the severities of hyaline droplets generally increased with increasing exposure concentration. 3-MONTH STUDY IN MICE: Groups of 10 male and 10 female B6C3F(1) mice were exposed to 0, 25, 50, 100, 200, or 400 ppm decalin vapor 6 hours per day, 5 days per week for 14 weeks. All mice survived to the end of the study, and mean body weights of exposed groups were similar to those of the chamber control groups. Liver weights of 200 and 400 ppm males and females were significantly increased. There was a significant exposure concentration-related decrease in the absolute spermatid head count and a significant decrease in absolute head count of the 400 ppm group compared to the chamber controls. Incidences of centrilobular cytomegaly of the liver were increased in exposed male mice. 2-YEAR STUDY IN RATS: Groups of 50 male and 50 female F344/N rats were exposed to 0, 25, 50 (male rats only), 100, or 400 ppm (female rats only) decalin vapor 6 hours per day, 5 days per week for 105 weeks. A group of 20 male rats was exposed to 400 ppm. Survival of exposed groups was similar to that of the chamber control groups. Mean body weights of 400 ppm males were slightly less than those of the chamber controls during the second year of the study. Incidences of renal tubule adenoma and adenoma or carcinoma (combined) and of benign or malignant pheochromocytoma (combined) of the adrenal medulla in 100 and 400 ppm males were significantly increased. There was a significant association between nephropathy severity and adrenal pheochromocytoma incidence. Nonneoplastic lesions related to decalin exposure occurred in the kidney of male rats. 2-YEAR STUDY IN MICE: Groups of 50 male and 50 female B6C3F(1) mice were exposed to 0, 25, 100, or 400 ppm decalin vapor 6 hours per day, 5 days per week for 105 weeks. Survival of exposed mice was similar to that of the chamber controls. Mean body weights of exposed groups were generally similar to those of the chamber control groups throughout the study. Increased incidences of hepatocellular neoplasms occurred in 25 and 400 ppm female mice, and the incidences of centrilobular hypertrophy, necrosis, syncytial alteration, and erythrophagocytosis of the liver in 400 ppm males were significantly increased. The incidences of uterine stromal polyp and stromal polyp or stromal sarcoma (combined) occurred with positive trends in female mice. The rate of metabolism of decalin was the same for males and females in rats and mice. Also in rats and mice, decalin metabolism was saturated at less than 400 ppm. Increased labeling indices in male rats were likely due to changes related to alpha2u-globulin. Decalin was not mutagenic in S. typhimurium strains TA97, TA98, TA100, or TA1535, with or without induced hamster or rat liver S9 enzymes. A small but significant increase in the frequency of micronucleated normochromatic erythrocytes was noted in male mice exposed to decalin for 3 months; however, no induction of micronuclei was observed in female mice. Under the conditions of these studies, there was clear evidence of carcinogenic activity of decalin in male F344/N rats based on increased incidences of renal tubule neoplasms. The increased incidences of benign or malignant pheochromocytoma (combined) of the adrenal medulla in male rats were also considered to be exposure related. There was no evidence of carcinogenic activity of decalin in female F344/N rats exposed to 25, 100, or 400 ppm. There was no evidence of carcinogenic activity of decalin in male B6C3F(1) mice exposed to 25, 100, or 400 ppm. There was equivocal evidence of carcinogenic activity of decalin in female B6C3F(1) mice based on marginally increased incidences of hepatocellular and uterine neoplasms. Exposure of male rats to decalin resulted in nonneoplastic lesions of the kidney characteristic of alpha2u-globulin accumulation. Nonneoplastic lesions of the liver were observed in male mice exposed to decalin.

Spinosad for the treatment of head lice infestations.

PubMed

Villegas, S C

2012-09-01

Head lice infestations continue to be an issue in today's society, with an increase in economic cost and resistance. Spinosad 0.9% topical suspension was recently introduced in the U.S. market as a novel agent with both pediculicidal and ovicidal activity, approved in children 4 years of age and older for the treatment of head lice infestations. In clinical trials, it has demonstrated effectiveness against head lice with permethrin resistance. In two clinical trials comparing spinosad to permethrin, efficacy was observed in the spinosad-treated groups at 84.6% and 86.7%, respectively, when compared to the permethrin-treated groups (respective values of 44.9% and 42.9%; P < 0.001). Overall, spinosad was well tolerated in clinical trials. Copyright 2012 Prous Science, S.A.U. or its licensors. All rights reserved.

[Applied studies of structured triglycerides for parenteral nutrition in severe hemorrhagic shock patients after resuscitation].

PubMed

Su, Mao-sheng; He, Lei; Liu, Zhi-wei; Ma, Huan-xian; Zhao, Qing-hua; Zhang, Wen-zhi

2012-03-27

To evaluate the effects of structured triglycerides in parenteral nutrition versus a physical medium-chain triglycerides (MCT)/long-chain triglycerides (LCT) mixture on severe hemorrhagic shock patients after resuscitation. In a randomized trial, we studied 20 critical patients with a total blood loss of over 3000 ml perioperatively and/or intraoperatively. The use of triglycerides started from Day 3 postoperation and parenteral nutrition lasted for no less than 5 days. They were allocated to receive one of two nutrition regiments: structured triglycerides in Group A (n = 10) and MCT/LCT in Group B (n = 10). There were no significant differences of general conditions in two groups. Before the start of parenteral nutrition (d0), d1 d3 and d5 after start of infusion, the following parameters were measured: hemoglobin (Hb), platelet count (Plt), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), total bilirubin (TB), direct bilirubin (DB), serum triglycerides (TG), prealbumin (PA) and transferrin (TF). And mean artery pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR) and central vein pressure (CVP) were also recorded at the same time-points. Then the post-TG changes of the above data were compared in both groups. After the use of triglycerides, there were no significant differences of MAP, HR, CVP, Hb and Plt in both groups (P > 0.05). At D3 and D5, the serum levels of TG ((2.1 ± 0.4) vs (1.6 ± 0.6) mg/L, (2.3 ± 0.7) vs (1.5 ± 0.3) mg/L) and alanine aminotransferase ((133 ± 58) vs (97 ± 26) U/L; (116 ± 48) vs (77 ± 31) U/L) were significantly higher in Group B versus those receiving structured triglycerides in Group A (P < 0.05). TB ((18 ± 15) vs (18 ± 11) µmol/L) and DB ((8.9 ± 3.2) vs (8.8 ± 2.5) µmol/L) had no significant differences in two groups (P > 0.05). The serum levels of such nutrition markers as PA ((195 ± 55) vs (166 ± 55) mg/L,(245 ± 53) vs (195 ± 58) mg/L) and TF ((2.6 ± 0.5) vs (2.5 ± 0.6) g/L, (3.3 ± 0.8) vs (2.9 ± 0.6) g/L)were significantly higher in Group A than those in Group B (P < 0.05). With regards to lipid metabolism, protein synthesis and hepatocyte protection, structured triglycerides in parenteral nutrition is advantageous to standard MCT/LCT emulsion in severe hemorrhagic shock patients after resuscitation.

Urinary coagulation-fibrinolysis, kallirein-kinin systems and kininase in cases of preclampsia.

PubMed

Mutoh, S; Kobayashi, M; Hirata, J; Itoh, N; Maki, M; Komatsu, Y; Yoshida, A; Sasa, H; Kuroda, K; Kikuchi, Y

1992-01-01

Urinary kallikrein and kallikrein activity significantly decreased in cases of preeclampsia (u-kall./CRE.index 42.39 +/- 9.66 ng/mg, u-kall. act./CRE.index 0.26 +/- 0.06 ng/min/mg), and urinary kininase II and kininase activity significantly increased (u-kininase/CRE.index 10.91 +/- 1.26 x 10(-3) IU/min/mg, u-kininase act./CRE.index 506.37 +/- 178.45 pg/min/mg) when compared with those of normal gravidas from 28 weeks to 42 weeks of gestation (u-kall./CRE.index 189.31 +/- 14.17 ng/mg, u-kall. act./CRE index 1.08 +/- 0.10 ng/min/mg, u-kininase/CRE.index 6.24 +/- 0.31 x 10(-3) IU/min/mg, u-kininase act./CRE.index 15.64 +/- 0.10 pg/min/mg). Urinary FPA, B beta 5-42, alpha 2-PI, and alpha 2PI-plasmin-complex (PIC) significantly increased in preeclampsia (u-FPA/CRE.index 23.59 +/- 8.47 ng/mg, u-B beta/CRE.index 105.26 +/- 29.30 ng/mg, u-alpha 2PI/CRE.index 121.53 +/- 43.57 ng/mg, u-PIC/CRE index 278.39 +/- 60.50 ng/mg) when compared with those of normal control group (u-FPA/CRE.index 0.92 +/- 0.04 ng/mg, u-B beta/CRE.index 12.15 +/- 0.44 ng/mg, u-alpha 2PI/CRE.index 4.18 +/- 0.33 ng/mg, u-PIC/CRE.index 5.98 +/- 1.15 ng/mg). Urinary urokinase markedly increased and urinary D-dimer was detected in severe cases of preeclampsia (u-UK/CRE.index 58.20 +/- 43.69 ng/mg, u-D-dimer 54.76 +/- 9.89 ng/ml) when compared with those of normal control group. These findings suggest that deficiency in urinary kinin excretion may induce hypertension in addition to the changes of urinary coagulation-fibrinolysis system that represents the occurrence of either the endothelial cell injury in the glomerulus or the renal tulbular damage in mild cases of preeclampsia, eventually resulting in the intra-renal vascular coagulation.

Correlation between balloon release pressure and no-reflow in patients with acute myocardial infarction undergoing direct percutaneous coronary intervention.

PubMed

Wang, Yanfei; Yao, Min; Liu, Haibo; Yang, Yuejin; Xie, Junmin; Jia, Xinwei; Pan, Huanjun; Wang, Chunyan

2014-01-01

Balloon release pressure may increase the incidence of no reflow after direct percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). This randomized controlled study was designed to analyze the correlation between balloon release pressure and no-reflow in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) undergoing direct PCI. There were 156 AMI patients who underwent PCI from January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2012, and were divided into two groups according to the stent inflation pressure: a conventional pressure group and a high pressure group. After PCI, angiography was conducted to assess the thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) grade with related artery. Examinations were undertaken on all patients before and after the operation including cardiac enzymes, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, blood glucose, homocysteine , β-thromboglobulin (β-TG), Hamilton depression scale (HAMD) and self-rating anxiety scale (SAS). After interventional therapy, the afore-mentioned parameters in both the conventional pressure group and high pressure group were again analyzed. The results showed that CK-MB, HAMD, SAS were significantly different (P < 0.05) in all patients after PCI, especially the CK-MB in the high pressure group ((25.7 ± 7.6) U/L vs. (76.7 ± 11.8) U/L). CK-MB, HAMD, SAS, and β-TG were comparative before PCI but they were significantly changed (P < 0.05) after intervention. No-reflow phenomenon occurred in 13 patients in the high pressure group, which was significantly higher than in the conventional pressure group (17.11% vs. 6.25%, P < 0.05). In stent implantation, using a pressure less than 1823.4 kPa balloon to release pressure may be the better choice to reduce the occurrence of no-reflow following direct PCI.

Early Intervention for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Depression, and Quality of Life in Mortuary Affairs Soldiers Postdeployment.

PubMed

Biggs, Quinn M; Fullerton, Carol S; McCarroll, James E; Liu, Xian; Wang, Leming; Dacuyan, Nicole M; Zatzick, Douglas F; Ursano, Robert J

2016-11-01

U.S. Army mortuary affairs (MA) soldiers experience stressors of deployment and exposure to the dead, increasing risk for post-traumatic stress and depression. This study examines Troop Education for Army Morale, a postdeployment early intervention based on Psychological First Aid. MA soldiers (N = 126) were randomized to intervention or comparison groups 1-month postdeployment. Intervention sessions were held at 2, 3, 4, and 7 months. Assessments of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and quality of life (QOL) were conducted at 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, and 10 months for both groups. At baseline, 25.0% of the total sample had probable PTSD (17-item PTSD Checklist M = 35.4, SD = 16.9) and 23.6% had probable depression (9-item Patient Health Questionnaire Depression Scale M = 7.8, SD = 6.9). Over 10 months, PTSD and depression symptoms decreased and QOL improved for the total sample. At study conclusion, intervention and comparison groups were not different. Intervention group males showed a transient symptom increase at 2 to 3 months. Males attended fewer intervention sessions than females. Lower attendance was associated with more symptoms and lower QOL. Higher attendance was associated with greater intervention benefits. Findings highlight the need for better understanding postdeployment interventions and facilitating attendance. Further intervention for MA soldiers is indicated. Reprint & Copyright © 2016 Association of Military Surgeons of the U.S.

Serum Oxidative Stress Levels in Patients with Nasal Septal Deviation

PubMed Central

Ekinci, Adnan; Karataş, Duran; Yetiş, Abdurrahman; Demir, Emre; Özcan, Müge

2017-01-01

Objective Comparison of the total oxidant status (TOS), total antioxidant status (TAS) and paraoxonase (PON1) serum levels in patients with nasal septum deviation (NSD) and healthy subjects. Methods The TAS, TOS, and PON1 serum levels of 47 patients with NSD (mean age 35.3) and 50 healthy subjects (mean age 37.8) were compared in this study. Results We found significantly higher TAS levels in the control group (p<0.001). The mean TAS value was 1.196 mmoL/L in the control group, whereas it was 1.046 mmoL/L in the NSD group. On the other hand, TOS was significantly higher in the NSD group (p<0.001). We found that the mean TOS value was 6.600 mmoL/L in the control group, and 20.194 mmoL/L in the NSD group. The NSD and control groups had similar PON1 levels (p=0.446). The mean PON1 value was 279.64 U/L in the control group, and 324.21 U/L in the NSD group. Conclusion We detected higher TOS and lower TAS levels in patients with NSD compared to healthy subjects. These results indicate that patients with NSD are exposed to oxidative stress. PMID:29392069

Dietary baked egg accelerates resolution of egg allergy in children.

PubMed

Leonard, Stephanie A; Sampson, Hugh A; Sicherer, Scott H; Noone, Sally; Moshier, Erin L; Godbold, James; Nowak-Węgrzyn, Anna

2012-08-01

Baked egg is tolerated by a majority of egg-allergic children. To characterize immunologic changes associated with ingestion of baked egg and evaluate the role that baked egg diets play in the development of tolerance to regular egg. Egg-allergic subjects who tolerated baked egg challenge incorporated baked egg into their diet. Immunologic parameters were measured at follow-up visits. A comparison group strictly avoiding egg was used to evaluate the natural history of the development of tolerance. Of the 79 subjects in the intent-to-treat group followed for a median of 37.8 months, 89% now tolerate baked egg and 53% now tolerate regular egg. Of 23 initially baked egg-reactive subjects, 14 (61%) subsequently tolerated baked egg and 6 (26%) now tolerate regular egg. Within the initially baked egg-reactive group, subjects with persistent reactivity to baked egg had higher median baseline egg white (EW)-specific IgE levels (13.5 kU(A)/L) than those who subsequently tolerated baked egg (4.4 kU(A)/L; P= .04) and regular egg (3.1 kU(A)/L; P= .05). In subjects ingesting baked egg, EW-induced skin prick test wheal diameter and EW-, ovalbumin-, and ovomucoid-specific IgE levels decreased significantly, while ovalbumin- and ovomucoid-specific IgG(4) levels increased significantly. Subjects in the per-protocol group were 14.6 times more likely than subjects in the comparison group (P< .0001) to develop regular egg tolerance, and they developed tolerance earlier (median 50.0 vs 78.7 months; P< .0001). Initiation of a baked egg diet accelerates the development of regular egg tolerance compared with strict avoidance. Higher serum EW-specific IgE level is associated with persistent baked and regular egg reactivity, while initial baked egg reactivity is not. Copyright © 2012 American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

In the aftermath of SPRINT: further comparison of unattended automated office blood pressure measurement and 24-hour blood pressure monitoring.

PubMed

Seidlerová, Jitka; Gelžinský, Julius; Mateřánková, Markéta; Ceral, Jiří; König, Petr; Filipovský, Jan

2018-03-22

Several papers reported that unattended automated office blood pressure (uAutoOBP) is closely related to daytime ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM). In the present study, we aim to study uAutoOBP and its relation to 24-hour ABPM and ABPM variability. Stable treated hypertensive subjects were examined in two Czech academic hypertension centres. uAutoOBP was measured with the BP Tru device; attended BP three times with auscultatory method (AuscOBP) by the physician. ABPM was performed within one week from the clinical visit. Data on 98 subjects aged 67.7 ± 9.3 years with 24-hour ABPM 120.3 ± 10.6/72.7 ± 7.9 mm Hg are reported. uAutoOBP was lower than 24-hour (by -5.2 ± 11.3/-0.5 ± 6.9 mm Hg) and daytime (by -6.7 ± 12.82.4 ± 8.0 mm Hg) ABPM and the individual variability of the difference was very large (up to 30 mm Hg). The correlation coefficients between ABPM and uAutoOBP were similar compared to AuscOBP (p ≥ .17). Variability of uAutoOBP, but not AuscOBP, readings during one clinical visit was related to short-term blood pressure variability of ABPM. The difference between AuscOBP and uAutoOBP was larger in patients with white-coat effect compared to other blood pressure control groups (25.1 ± 7.0 vs. 2.2 ± 10.3 mm Hg; p = .0036). Our study shows that uAutoOBP is not good predictor of ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, not even of the daytime values. It might, however, indicate short-term blood pressure variability and, when compared with AuscOBP, also detect patients with white-coat effect.

West Eurasian mtDNA lineages in India: an insight into the spread of the Dravidian language and the origins of the caste system.

PubMed

Palanichamy, Malliya Gounder; Mitra, Bikash; Zhang, Cai-Ling; Debnath, Monojit; Li, Gui-Mei; Wang, Hua-Wei; Agrawal, Suraksha; Chaudhuri, Tapas Kumar; Zhang, Ya-Ping

2015-06-01

There is no indication from the previous mtDNA studies that west Eurasian-specific subclades have evolved within India and played a role in the spread of languages and the origins of the caste system. To address these issues, we have screened 14,198 individuals (4208 from this study) and analyzed 112 mitogenomes (41 new sequences) to trace west Eurasian maternal ancestry. This has led to the identification of two autochthonous subhaplogroups--HV14a1 and U1a1a4, which are likely to have originated in the Dravidian-speaking populations approximately 10.5-17.9 thousand years ago (kya). The carriers of these maternal lineages might have settled in South India during the time of the spread of the Dravidian language. In addition to this, we have identified several subsets of autochthonous U7 lineages, including U7a1, U7a2b, U7a3, U7a6, U7a7, and U7c, which seem to have originated particularly in the higher-ranked caste populations in relatively recent times (2.6-8.0 kya with an average of 5.7 kya). These lineages have provided crucial clues to the differentiation of the caste system that has occurred during the recent past and possibly, this might have been influenced by the Indo-Aryan migration. The remaining west Eurasian lineages observed in the higher-ranked caste groups, like the Brahmins, were found to cluster with populations who possibly arrived from west Asia during more recent times.

Breast feeding and insulin levels in low birth weight neonates: a randomized study.

PubMed

Gupta, Mukesh; Zaheer; Jora, Rakesh; Kaul, Vijay; Gupta, Rajeev

2010-05-01

To evaluate the influence of early infancy feeding practices on fasting insulin levels, as marker of insulin resistance, in low birthweight neonates. Eighty successive low birth weight (<2.5 kg) neonates <10 days of age born at >38 wk of gestation at this tertiary care centre, were successively invited for participation in the study; parents of 52 (65%) consented to participate. Group 1 children (n=26) were randomized to receive only breast feeding and Group 2 (n=26) received fortified breast feeding with a commercially available human milk fortifier. Routine anthropometry and evaluation of health status was performed. The babies were followed-up every 15 day up to three months. 4-hour fasting glucose and insulin levels were measured at baseline and at 3 month. Statistical analyses were performed using t-test and Mann-Whitney test. In excusively breast-fed Group 1 neonates vs Group 2 the mean birthweight was similar (1.99+/-0.23 vs 1.87+/-0.30 kg). There was no difference in body length, head circumference and chest circumference. Mean hemoglobin levels, fasting glucose (63.9+/-9.8 vs 64.3+/-8.0 mg/dl) and fasting insulin levels (1.44+/-1.19 vs 1.73+/-1.38 microU/ml), were also similar. At three month follow-up in Group 1 children receiving exclusive breast feeding, there was significantly lower weight as compared to Group 2 (3.40+/-0.3 vs 4.75+/-0.5 kg, p<0.01). This was associated with significantly lower fasting glucose (79.0+/-9.4 vs 85.6+/-8.4 mg/dl) and fasting insulin levels (6.95+/-4.27 vs 15.73+/-3.29 microU/ml) (p<0.001). The difference persisted even after adjustment for weight gain in Group 2 (weight adjusted insulin 11.26+/-3.3 microU/ml; p<0.001). Low birthweight neonates fed fortified breast milk had greater fasting insulin levels compared to those with exclusive breast feeding, at three month of age. The difference persisted after adjustment for excessive gain in fortified milk fed neonates and, suggests adverse glucometabolic programming.

Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency in Brazilian Children With Sickle Cell Anemia is not Associated With Clinical Ischemic Stroke or High-Risk Transcranial Doppler.

PubMed

Belisário, André Rolim; Rodrigues Sales, Rahyssa; Evelin Toledo, Nayara; Velloso-Rodrigues, Cibele; Maria Silva, Célia; Borato Viana, Marcos

2016-06-01

Stroke is a severe complication of sickle cell anemia (SCA). The role of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency in the development of stroke in children with SCA is controversial. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of clinical ischemic stroke, high-risk transcranial Doppler measurements (TCD), and hematological features with molecular variants usually linked to G6PD deficiency or with the biochemical activity of G6PD in a cohort of 395 Brazilian children with SCA. G6PD activity was quantitatively determined using an enzymatic-colorimetric assay. G6PD mutations were determined by PCR-RFLP and sequencing. Clinical and hematological data were retrieved from the children's records. The prevalence of molecularly defined deficiency (hereafter, molecular deficiency) was 4.3% (95% confidence interval: 2.3-6.3%). The mean G6PD activity was 16.88 U/g hemoglobin (Hb) (standard error of the mean [SEM] 0.28) in the group without G6PD molecular deficiency and 8.43 (SEM 1.01) U/g Hb in the group with G6PD A(-) molecular deficiency. G6PD molecular deficiency was not associated with any hematological features. No effects of G6PD molecular deficiency on clinical ischemic stroke or high-risk TCD were detected. The mean G6PD activity was similar in children who had clinical ischemic stroke and in those without stroke. Similar results were obtained in analyses comparing children who had high-risk TCD and those without high-risk TCD. Our study demonstrated that G6PD molecular deficiency was not associated either with clinical ischemic stroke or high-risk TCD. Similarly, we found no associations between G6PD enzyme activity and stroke or high-risk TCD. Small sample size precludes definitive conclusions. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Ibudilast may improve attention during early abstinence from methamphetamine.

PubMed

Birath, J Brandon; Briones, Marisa; Amaya, Stephanie; Shoptaw, Steven; Swanson, Aimee-Noelle; Tsuang, John; Furst, Benjamin; Heinzerling, Keith; Obermeit, Lisa; Maes, Lauryn; McKay, Charles; Wright, Matthew J

2017-09-01

Inattention is a deficit related to instilling abstinence from methamphetamine (MA) dependence. This study aimed to determine whether ibudilast (IB; 50mg bid) improves attentional abilities compared to placebo during early abstinence from MA dependence. Attention was assessed in 11 MA-dependent non-treatment seeking participants in a phase IB safety-interaction trial. The Conners' Continuous Performance Test-II (CPT-II), a measure of sustained attention and response inhibition, was administered at baseline and on day 22, 48h post a MA challenge under placebo (P; n=6) or IB 50mg bid (n=5). Group differences were compared using Mann-Whitney U Tests. Groups were similar at baseline in premorbid intellectual functioning, attention deficit hyperactivity symptom scores, impulsivity ratings, and education level, but differed in age. Demographically corrected T-scores for CPT-II performances were utilized. Although no group differences in sustained attention existed at baseline, at follow-up, the IB group (Mdn=44.4) showed reduced variability in response times compared with the P group (Mdn=69.9), U=0.00, z=-2.74, p=.006, r=.83. The IB group (Mdn=45.8) also gave fewer perseverative responses than the P group (Mdn=67.0), U=2.00, z=-2.50, p=.01, r=.75. No other significant differences were observed. Findings suggest that IB may have a protective effect on sustained attention during early abstinence from MA dependence. This may guide thinking about mechanism of action should IB demonstrate efficacy as a treatment for MA dependence. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The benefits of international rotations to resource-limited settings for U.S. surgery residents.

PubMed

Henry, Jaymie A; Groen, Reinou S; Price, Raymond R; Nwomeh, Benedict C; Kingham, T Peter; Hardy, Mark A; Kushner, Adam L

2013-04-01

U.S. surgery residents increasingly are interested in international experiences. Recently, the Residency Review Committee approved international surgery rotations for credit toward graduation. Despite this growing interest, few U.S. surgery residency programs offer formal international rotations. We aimed to present the benefits of international surgery rotations and how these rotations contribute to the attainment of the 6 Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) competencies. An e-mail-based survey was sent in November 2011 to the 188 members of Surgeons OverSeas, a group of surgeons, residents, fellows, and medical students with experience working in resource-limited settings. They were asked to list 5 benefits of international rotations for surgery residents. The frequency of benefits was qualitatively grouped into 4 major categories: educational, personal, benefits to the foreign institution/Global Surgery, and benefits to the home institution. The themes were correlated with the 6 ACGME competencies. The 58 respondents (31% response rate) provided a total of 295 responses. Fifty themes were identified. Top benefits included learning to optimally function with limited resources, exposure to a wide variety of operative pathology, exposure to a foreign culture, and forming relationships with local counterparts. All ACGME competencies were covered by the themes. International surgery rotations to locations in which resources are constrained, operative diseases vary, and patient diversity abound provide unique opportunities for surgery residents to attain the 6 ACGME competencies. General surgery residency programs should be encouraged to establish formal international rotations as part of surgery training to promote resident education and assist with necessary oversight. Copyright © 2013 Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

A Novel Fluoroscopy-free, Resuscitative Endovascular Aortic Balloon Occlusion System in a Model of Hemorrhagic Shock

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-07-01

group (7.7 [1.5] mmol/L vs. 6.1 [3.3] mmol/L, p = 0.007) and a higher creatine kinase level in PBS than in CBS (144,290 [138,363] U/L vs. 68,876 [57,291...5,423) 0.452 Creatinine , mg/dL 2.3 (1.2) 1.7 (0.4) 0.029 1.7 (0.8) 1.5 (0.2) 0.418 K+, mmol/L 7.49 (1.72) 7.60 (1.28) 0.845 7.66 (1.45) 6.10 (3.27...0.007 CK, U/L 47,031 (14,109) 70,152 (32,362) 0.228 68,876 (57,291) 144,290 (138,363) G0.001 AST, aspartate aminotransferase; CK, creatine kinase; K

Urinary MMP-9/NGAL complex in children with acute cystitis.

PubMed

Hatipoglu, Sami; Sevketoglu, Esra; Gedikbasi, Asuman; Yilmaz, Alev; Kiyak, Aysel; Mulazimoglu, Mehmet; Aydogan, Gonul; Ozpacaci, Tevfik

2011-08-01

The matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and neutrophil gelatinase associated lipocalin (NGAL) are shown to increase in an inflammatory situation. Based on our previous reports that NGAL can be detected in the urine of children with urinary tract infection (UTI), we also asked whether MMP-9/NGAL complex could be detected in the urine of children with UTI. This multicenter, prospective study was conducted between October 2009 and October 2010. Seventy-one patients with symptomatic culture proven UTI, 37 asymptomatic children with contaminated urine and 37 healthy children were recruited. Mean uMMP-9/NGAL/Cr levels were significantly higher in the UTI group than in the control group (p < 0.0001). According to ROC analysis, the optimal cut-off level was 0.08 ng/mg to predict UTI. Using a cut-off value, sensitivity and specificity were 98.6 and 97.3%, respectively. The mean levels of uMMP-9/NGAL/cr in the UTI group were also significantly higher than those in the contamination group (p < 0.0001). There was no statistically significant difference between contamination group and the control group (p = 0.21). The mean uMMP-9/NGAL/Cr in the UTI group were significantly higher before treatment than after treatment (p < 0.0001). The area under the curve was 0.997 (SE: 0.002, 95% CI: 0.993 to 1.001) for uMMP-9/NGAL/Cr. Urinary MMP-9/NGAL/Cr level was also correlated with positive urine nitrite test, positive urine leukocyte esterase reaction and renal scarring (p = 0.0001, p = 0.0001, p = 0.04, respectively) whereas was not correlated to leukocytosis and positive CRP level in serum. Urine MMP-9/NGAL/cr can be used as a diagnostic biomarker for UTI in children. Identification of NGAL-MMP-9/cr levels in the urine of suspected UTI patients may also be useful to differentiate between contamination and infection and for monitoring of treatment response in children.

HgCdTe Surface and Defect Study Program.

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-07-01

a! Td . - a,+ - , are the bonding and antibonding one electron energy states "- "𔃾 owing only to covalent and ionic interactions, . = T . . (U6 II .1...Group Meeting. Boulder CO. 1983; T. W. Jamet atid B. Fandvacncyforatin eerg) t inreae popotioal o a Ziack. 4bd . low inverse power of the average bond

U.S. Naval Research Laboratory Final Analysis Report to NATO Above Water Warfare Capabilities Group 2016 Naval Electromagnetic Operations Trials

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-05-23

Systems and the NRL Code 5763 Radio Frequency (RF) Stimulator. It includes and covers system descriptions , setup, data collection, and test goals that...6 4. Test Asset Descriptions ...7 4.1. Description of FOXTROT Anti-ship Missile (ASM) Simulator ......................................... 7

How Agricultural Science Trumps Rural Community in the Discourse of Selected U.S. History Textbooks

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Howley, Marged; Howley, Aimee; Eppley, Karen

2013-01-01

Using narrative from 6 high school American history textbooks published between 1956 and 2009, this study investigated changes in how textbook authors presented the topics of agricultural science, farming, and community. Although some critical discourse analyses have examined textbooks' treatment of different population groups (e.g., African…

The 1986 ARI (Army Research Institute) Survey of U.S. Army Recruits: Survey

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-11-01

on 6 Aug and 4 Dec 1986), the Director of Military Personnel Management (ODCSPER) (on 5 Dec 1986), and the Deputy Chief of Staff for Personnel (on 12...primary training approach, which consisted of lecture, group discussion, and study of pertinent documents. Trainees who are less knowledeable and less

Chile: Political and Economic Conditions and U.S. Relations

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-06-03

6 Mapuche Activism...education, which they contend is the root problem.26 Mapuche Activism Confrontation with the Mapuche population has been a persistent problem for the...Bachelet Administration. The Mapuche are Chile’s largest indigenous group and comprise approximately 4% of the population or 660,000 of Chile’s 16.5

Experimental Investigations into U/TRU Recovery using a Liquid Cadmium Cathode and Salt Containing High Rare Earth Concentrations

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

Shelly X. Li; Steven D. Herrmann; Michael F. Simpson

2009-09-01

Experimental Investigations into U/TRU Recovery using a Liquid Cadmium Cathode and Salt Containing High Rare Earth Concentrations Shelly X. Li, Steven D. Herrmann, and Michael F. Simpson Pyroprocessing Technology Department Idaho National Laboratory P.O. Box 1625, Idaho Falls, ID 83415 USA Abstract - A series of six bench-scale liquid cadmium cathode (LCC) tests was performed to obtain basic separation data with focus on the behavior of rare earth elements. The electrolyte used for the tests was a mixed salt from the Mk-IV and Mk-V electrorefiners, in which spent metal fuels from Experimental Breeder Reactor-II (EBR-II) had been processed. Rare earthmore » (RE) chlorides, such as NdCl3, CeCl3, LaCl3, PrCl3, SmCl3, and YCl3, were spiked into the salt prior to the first test to create an extreme case for investigating rare earth contamination of the actinides collected by a LCC. For the first two LCC tests, an alloy with the nominal composition of 41U-30Pu-5Am-3Np-20Zr-1RE was loaded into the anode baskets as the feed material. The anode feed material for Runs 3 to 6 was spent ternary fuel (U-19Pu-10Zr). The Pu/U ratio in the salt varied from 0.6 to 1.3. Chemical and radiochemical analytical results confirmed that U and transuranics can be collected into the LCC as a group under the given run conditions. The RE contamination level in the LCC product was up to 6.7 wt% of the total metal collected. The detailed data for partitioning of actinides and REs in the salt and Cd phases are reported in the paper.« less

The Relative Age Effect in German Elite Youth Soccer: Implications for a Successful Career.

PubMed

Skorski, Sabrina; Skorski, Stefan; Faude, Oliver; Hammes, Daniel; Meyer, Tim

2016-04-01

To investigate whether anthropometric profiles and fitness measures vary according to birth-date distribution in the German national youth soccer teams and to analyze whether there is a difference in the chance of becoming a professional soccer player depending on birth quarter (BQ). First, 554 players were divided into 6 age groups (U16-U21), each subdivided into 4 BQs. Every player performed at least one 30-m sprint, a countermovement jump, and an incremental test to determine individual anaerobic threshold. For players performing more than 1 test within a team, the best 1 was included. Since some players were part of several different teams, a total of 832 data sets from 495 individual soccer players, all born from 1987 to 1995, divided into 6 age categories (U16-U21) were included. Overall, more players were born in BQ1 than in all other BQs (P < .05). No significant difference between BQs could be observed in any anthropometric or performance characteristics (P > .18). Players born in BQ4 were more likely to become professional than those born in BQ1 (odds ratio 3.04, confidence limits 1.53-6.06). A relative age effect exists in elite German youth soccer, but it is not explained by an advantage in anthropometric or performance-related parameters. Younger players selected into national teams have a greater chance to become professionals later in their career.

Impact of initial platelet count on baseline angiographic finding and end-points in ST-elevation myocardial infarction referred for primary percutaneous coronary intervention.

PubMed

Kaplan, Sahin; Kaplan, Safiye Tuba; Kiris, Abdulkadir; Gedikli, Omer

2014-01-01

The baseline platelet count (BPC) in patients with acute ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) may reflect the baseline anjiografic finding and may also predic long-term outcomes after primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI). Available data for the value of BPC in patients with STEMI treated with PPCI are still questionable. Therefore, we sought to determine the prognostic value of BPC for baseline angiographic finding and the impact of BPC on clinical outcomes of patients treating with PPCI. Blood sample for BPC was obtained on admission in 140 consecutive patients undergoing PPCI. Patients were divided 2 groups that group-1 (104 patients): TIMI flow-grade 0 and group-2 (36 patients): TIMI flow-grade 1-3. Follow-up was performed at 1-9 months. Baseline demographics were comparable, but, BPC was significantly higher in group-1 comparing 2 (293.7±59.8x10(9)/L vs. 237.7±50.9x10(9)/L, p<0.0001), pre-procedural lesion length longer in group-1 comparing 2 (13.6±3.6 mm vs. 11.4±3.9 mm, p:0.003). Distal embolization (19.0% vs. 0.0%, p:0.001), slow-flow (15.2% vs. 2.9%, p:0.033) were more common in group-1 and mean maximum troponin-I level (9.1±4.2 μg/L vs. 5.1±3.9 μg/L, p<0.0001) and mean maximum creatinin kinase (2077.6±1378.4 U/L vs. 1163.4±869.7 U/L, p:<0.0001) were higher in group-1. In-hospital and 30-days major cardiac adverse events (MACEs) (16.5% vs. 5.7%), p:0.14) were similarly in both groups, but, at 6-months target vessel revascularization (13.9% vs. 0.0%, p:0.017) and MACEs significantly higher in the group-1 (24.1% vs. 2.9%, p:0.013). A higher BPC without any antithrombotic agent is a strongly predictor of total occlusion of IRA in STEMI treated with PPCI. And a higher BPC associated with poor clinical outcomes at 9-months. Apart from prognostic value, measuring of a BPC on admission may also provide further practical and therapeutic profits.

Impact of initial platelet count on baseline angiographic finding and end-points in ST-elevation myocardial infarction referred for primary percutaneous coronary intervention

PubMed Central

Kaplan, Sahin; Kaplan, Safiye Tuba; Kiris, Abdulkadir; Gedikli, Omer

2014-01-01

The baseline platelet count (BPC) in patients with acute ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) may reflect the baseline anjiografic finding and may also predic long-term outcomes after primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI). Available data for the value of BPC in patients with STEMI treated with PPCI are still questionable. Therefore, we sought to determine the prognostic value of BPC for baseline angiographic finding and the impact of BPC on clinical outcomes of patients treating with PPCI. Blood sample for BPC was obtained on admission in 140 consecutive patients undergoing PPCI. Patients were divided 2 groups that group-1 (104 patients): TIMI flow-grade 0 and group-2 (36 patients): TIMI flow-grade 1-3. Follow-up was performed at 1-9 months. Baseline demographics were comparable, but, BPC was significantly higher in group-1 comparing 2 (293.7±59.8x109/L vs. 237.7±50.9x109/L, p<0.0001), pre-procedural lesion length longer in group-1 comparing 2 (13.6±3.6 mm vs. 11.4±3.9 mm, p:0.003). Distal embolization (19.0% vs. 0.0%, p:0.001), slow-flow (15.2% vs. 2.9%, p:0.033) were more common in group-1 and mean maximum troponin-I level (9.1±4.2 μg/L vs. 5.1±3.9 μg/L, p<0.0001) and mean maximum creatinin kinase (2077.6±1378.4 U/L vs. 1163.4±869.7 U/L, p:<0.0001) were higher in group-1. In-hospital and 30-days major cardiac adverse events (MACEs) (16.5% vs. 5.7%), p:0.14) were similarly in both groups, but, at 6-months target vessel revascularization (13.9% vs. 0.0%, p:0.017) and MACEs significantly higher in the group-1 (24.1% vs. 2.9%, p:0.013). Conclusion: A higher BPC without any antithrombotic agent is a strongly predictor of total occlusion of IRA in STEMI treated with PPCI. And a higher BPC associated with poor clinical outcomes at 9-months. Apart from prognostic value, measuring of a BPC on admission may also provide further practical and therapeutic profits. PMID:24955183

Is Pertussis Infection Neglected in China? Evidence from a Seroepidemiology Survey in Zhejiang, an Eastern Province of China.

PubMed

He, Hanqing; Yao, Pingping; Zhou, Yang; Deng, Xuan; Pan, Jinren

2016-01-01

The resurgence of pertussis has occurred in many countries. However, the epidemiological profiles of pertussis cannot be well understood by the current surveillance system in China. This study was designed to investigate the age specific serologic evidence of antibodies against pertussis, and to offer information regarding the existence of pertussis infection in Zhejiang Province, China. A cross-sectional serosurvey was carried out in 6 counties of Zhejiang Province during September and October of 2014. The immunoglobulin G-pertussis toxin (IgG-PT) levels were measured quantitatively with a commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The antibody activities were expressed in the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-U/ml and a level ≥30 FDA-U/ml was considered seropositive. An IgG-PT >80 FDA-U/ml indicated recent pertussis infection if the patient had not received immunization with the pertussis vaccine within the last year. The mean IgG-PT seropositivity rate among the 2107 subjects was 33.32% with a geometric mean concentration of 17.73 (95% confidence interval: 16.90-18.60) FDA-U/ml. The difference in the seropositivity rates reached significant means among the different age groups (waldχ2 = 198.41, P<0.0005), and children aged 3 years had the highest percentage (63.24%) of undetectable IgG-PT level. Of the 1707 subjects ≥3 years of age, 169 (9.90%) had evidence of a recent infection. The highest proportion of IgG-PT levels ≥80 FDA-U/ml was found in ≥60 years age group followed by 11-15 and 16-25 years age groups. This study indicates the rather lower IgG-PT level sustained 1 year after the acellular pertussis vaccine booster dose, and substantial proportion of population susceptibility to pertussis in Zhejiang Province, China. Moreover, pertussis infection is not uncommon; it was estimated that 10% of subjects were recently infected approximately within the last 100 days. We highly suggest that the surveillance capacity should be strengthened and consider introducing booster dose that protect against pertussis in 6 years old children.

Healing of rotator cuff tendons using botulinum toxin A and immobilization in a rat model.

PubMed

Gilotra, Mohit N; Shorofsky, Michael J; Stein, Jason A; Murthi, Anand M

2016-03-15

We evaluated effects of botulinum toxin A (Botox) and cast immobilization on tendon healing in a rat model. Injection of Botox into rat supraspinatus was hypothesized to reduce muscle active force and improved healing. Eighty-four supraspinatus tendons were surgically transected and repaired in 42 Sprague-Dawley rats (transosseous technique). After repair, supraspinatus muscle was injected with saline or Botox (3 or 6 U/kg). Half the shoulders were cast-immobilized for the entire postoperative period; half were allowed free cage activity. Histology was examined at 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks. A healing zone cross-sectional area was measured, and biomechanical testing of repair strength and tendon viscoelastic properties was conducted at 4 and 12 weeks. Botox alone and cast immobilization alone exhibited increased ultimate load compared with controls (saline injection, no immobilization) at 4 weeks. No difference in ultimate load occurred between Botox-only and cast-only groups. At 12 weeks, the Botox (6 U/kg) plus cast immobilization group was significantly weakest (p < 0.05). A trend was shown toward decreased healing zone cross-sectional areas in casted groups. Supraspinatus Botox injection after rotator cuff repair might help protect the repair. However, cast immobilization plus Botox administration is harmful to rotator cuff healing in a rat tendon model.

An Inverse U-Shaped Curve of Resting-State Networks in Individuals at High Risk of Alzheimer's Disease.

PubMed

Ye, Qing; Chen, Haifeng; Su, Fan; Shu, Hao; Gong, Liang; Xie, Chunming; Zhou, Hong; Bai, Feng

Higher functional connectivity (FC) in resting-state networks has been shown in individuals at risk of Alzheimer's disease (AD) by many studies. However, the longitudinal trajectories of the FC remain unknown. The present 35-month follow-up study aimed to explore longitudinal changes in higher FC in multiple resting-state networks in subjects with the apolipoprotein E ε4 allele (ApoE4) and/or amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI). Fifty-one subjects with aMCI and 64 cognitively normal (CN) subjects underwent neuropsychological tests and resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scans twice from April 2011 to June 2015. Subjects were divided into 4 groups according to diagnosis and ApoE4 status. The CN non-ApoE4 group served as a control group, and other groups served as AD risk groups. The cross-sectional and longitudinal patterns of multiple resting-state networks, including default mode network, hippocampus network, executive control network, and salience network, were explored by comparing FC data between groups and between time points, respectively. At baseline, compared with the control group, the AD risk groups showed higher FC with 8 regions in multiple networks. At follow-up, 6 of the regions displayed longitudinally decreased FC in AD risk groups. In contrast, the FC with all of these regions was maintained in the control group. Notably, among the 3 risk groups, most of the higher FC at baseline (5 of the 8 regions) and longitudinally decreased FC at follow-up (4 of the 6 regions) were shown in the aMCI ApoE4 group. Higher resting-state FC is followed by a decline in subjects at AD risk, and this inverse U-shaped trajectory is more notable in subjects with higher risk. © Copyright 2018 Physicians Postgraduate Press, Inc.

Pre-transplant and post-transplant soluble CD30 for prediction and diagnosis of acute kidney allograft rejection.

PubMed

Nafar, Mohsen; Farrokhi, Farhat; Vaezi, Mohammad; Entezari, Amir-Ebrahim; Pour-Reza-Gholi, Fatemeh; Firoozan, Ahmad; Eniollahi, Behzad

2009-01-01

Serum levels of soluble CD30 (sCD30) have been considered as a predictor of acute kidney allograft rejection. We have evaluated the pre-transplant and post-transplant levels of sCD30 with the aim of determining its value in predicting and diagnosing kidney rejection. We measured sCD30 serum levels before kidney transplantation, 5 days post-operatively, and at creatinine elevation episodes. The predictive value of sCD30 for diagnosing acute rejection (AR) within the first 6 post-operative months was assessed in 203 kidney recipients from living donors. Pre-transplant and post-operative levels of serum sCD30 were 58.10 +/- 52.55 and 51.55 +/- 49.65 U/ml, respectively (P = 0.12). Twenty-three patients experienced biopsy-proven acute rejection, and 28 had acute allograft dysfunction due to non-immunologic diseases. The pre-transplant sCD30 level was not different between patients with and without AR. However, post-transplant sCD30 was higher in the AR group. The median serum level of post-transplant sCD30 was 52 U/ml in the AR group and 26.3 U/ml in a control group (P < 0.001). The relative changes of sCD30 on day 5 were higher in patients with AR (P = 0.003). Based on post-transplant sCD30 levels, we were able to differentiate between kidney recipients who experienced an AR within 6 months post-surgery and those without an AR (cutoff value 41 U/ml; sensitivity 70%; specificity 71.7%). The level of sCD30 during periods of elevated serum creatinine was not independently associated with the diagnosis of AR. Post-transplant sCD30 levels and their relative changes are higher in patients experiencing AR. We propose further studies on the post-transplant trend of this marker for the prediction of AR.

EDITSPEC: Basic Procedures Manual,

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-11-15

0 ag 0 6 s a ~ m.0~~ 0. uj u2 cc 200 , 50 M. - 3- *-a 0. a "a . OC 0aU b-, 00 6. c v a am u ascU Amu soa- o o ’. ~ *ac ~ ~ . i.ac 6*~~~ ~ .0 A0s c...8217 ’,z +a’ . -ll v .0 •%d* go J e mJ.,.bfJ .. 6. . . O ~ ~ ~ 6 A ,, 0i uu2 jA b. OZa U q r. -a 3 U Ua 2 1 a e g g g U ~ u ~ .1H .- a.i h Ag ;I I W

Children and adolescents' choices of foods and beverages high in added sugars are associated with intakes of key nutrients and food groups.

PubMed

Frary, Carol D; Johnson, Rachel K; Wang, Min Qi

2004-01-01

To determine associations between intakes of the primary food and beverage sources of added sugars and intakes of key nutrients and food pyramid groups among U.S. children aged 6-17 years. The 1994-96 and 1998 U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Continuing Survey of Food Intakes by Individuals (CSFII) were used to examine the diets of U.S. children aged 6-17 years, who provided 2 full days of dietary data. The nationally representative sample (n = 3038) included children age 6-11 (n = 1913) and adolescents age 12-17 (n = 1125). Food codes for sweetened foods and beverages were selected from the USDA Food Coding Scheme and categorized into five food and beverage categories. The Statistical Analysis System software program was used to recode and format the data for statistical analysis and the Survey Data Analysis System was used to apply sample weights and generate statistical procedures. The consumption of sweetened dairy products was positively associated with calcium intakes for children and adolescents. Consumption of presweetened cereals increased the likelihood of the children and adolescents meeting recommendations for the essential shortfall micronutrients calcium, folate, and iron, whereas the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages, sugars and sweets, and sweetened grains decreased the likelihood of meeting the Dietary Reference Intakes (DRI) for these nutrients. Only children who were nonconsumers of sugar-sweetened beverages had a mean calcium intake that met the adequate intakes (AI). Consumption of sweetened dairy products and presweetened cereals was positively associated with the number of dairy servings consumed per day for both age groups. On average, consumption of sweetened dairy foods and beverages and presweetened cereals had a positive impact on children and adolescents' diet quality, whereas sugar-sweetened beverages, sugars and sweets, and sweetened grains had a negative impact on their diet quality.

Serum thyrotrophin at baseline predicts the natural course of subclinical hyperthyroidism.

PubMed

Das, G; Ojewuyi, T A; Baglioni, P; Geen, J; Premawardhana, L D; Okosieme, O E

2012-07-01

Optimal therapeutic strategies for subclinical hyperthyroidism are undecided. Overt disease develops in a minority of cases, but the risk factors for progression remain unclear. We examined whether a baseline thyrotrophin (TSH) predicted progression to overt hyperthyroidism in asymptomatic individuals with subclinical hyperthyroidism. This was a retrospective study of 323 patients with subclinical hyperthyroidism seen in our institution from 2003 to 2010 (mean age 71 years, males 26·9%, females 73·1%, mean follow-up duration 32 months, range 6-93 months). Serum TSH and free thyroxine (FT4) were documented at baseline and during follow-up. After excluding individuals with nonthyroid causes of low TSH, patients were grouped according to initial TSH as: TSH 0·10-0·39 mU/l (grade I) and TSH < 0·10 mU/l (grade II). Only 38 patients (11·8%) developed overt hyperthyroidism with annual progression rates of 0·6-3·7%. Most patients reverted to normal thyroid status (31·6%) or remained subclinically hyperthyroid (56·7%). Progression to frank hyperthyroidism was higher in grade II than in grade I patients (20·3% vs 6·8%, P < 0·001, Chi square test). Kaplan-Meier curves showed faster progression rates in grade II than grade I (P < 0·001, log rank test). In stepwise multivariate Cox regression analysis, TSH < 0·1 mU/l was associated with overt hyperthyroidism (hazard ratio 3·4, confidence interval 1·6-7·0), whereas age, gender, FT4 and aetiological diagnosis were not associated with hyperthyroidism. Thyrotrophin predicts overt hyperthyroidism in asymptomatic individuals with subclinical hyperthyroidism. Patients with TSH < 0·10 mU/l have a higher risk of progressing to hyperthyroidism than those with TSH 0·10-0·39 mU/l. © 2012 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

[New perspectives in the approach to central retinal vein occlusion].

PubMed

Figueroa, M S

2015-03-01

The COPERNICUS and GALILEO trials were designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of intravitreal injection of 2mg of aflibercept in the treatment of macular edema secondary to central retinal vein occlusion. Two phase III randomized, double-masked trials: COPERNICUS in North America (188 patients) and galileo in Europe and Asia (177 patients). In COPERNICUS, the patients in the treatment group received monthly injections of 2mg aflibercept for 6 months and later continued with strict PRN treatment with monthly follow-up every 6 months and with a minimum of 3-monthly follow up for 1 year. Patients in the placebo group could receive treatment after the sixth month, with similar treatment regimens and follow-up to the treatment group. In contrast, in galileo, the placebo group received no PRN treatment until 1 year of follow-up and during the first 6 months, followup visits were bi-monthly. The treatment group in COPERNICUS showed a mean improvement of 13 letters versus the placebo group (1.5 letters) at week 100 of follow-up. In galileo, the mean best corrected visual acuity at 76 weeks were 13.7 and 6.6 in the treatment and placebo groups, respectively. Early treatment with intravitreal afliberceptin achieves better results than when treatment is delayed by 6 months or 1 year. The visual benefits obtained with the drug are affected by the reduction in the frequency of monitoring during follow-up. Copyright © 2015 Sociedad Española de Oftalmología. Published by Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Hands4U: the effectiveness of a multifaceted implementation strategy on behaviour related to the prevention of hand eczema-a randomised controlled trial among healthcare workers.

PubMed

van der Meer, Esther W C; Boot, Cécile R L; Twisk, Jos W R; Coenraads, Pieter Jan; Jungbauer, Frank H W; van der Gulden, Joost W J; Anema, Johannes R

2014-07-01

To investigate the effects of a multifaceted implementation strategy on behaviour, behavioural determinants, knowledge and awareness of healthcare workers regarding the use of recommendations to prevent hand eczema. The Hands4U study is a randomised controlled trial. A total of 48 departments (n=1649 workers) were randomly allocated to the multifaceted implementation strategy or the control group (minimal implementation strategy). Within the departments designated to the multifaceted implementation strategy, participatory working groups were set up to enhance the implementation of the recommendations for hand eczema. In addition, working group members were trained to become role models, and an education session was given within the department. Outcome measures were awareness, knowledge, receiving information, behaviour and behavioural determinants. Data were collected at baseline, with a 3- and 6-month follow-up. Statistically significant effects were found after 6 months for awareness (OR 6.30; 95% CI 3.41 to 11.63), knowledge (B 0.74; 95% CI 0.54 to 0.95), receiving information (OR 9.81; 95% CI 5.60 to 17.18), washing hands (B -0.40; 95% -0.51 to -0.29), use of moisturiser (B 0.29; 95% CI 0.20 to 0.38), cotton under gloves (OR 3.94; 95% CI 2.04 to 7.60) and the overall compliance measure (B 0.14; 95% CI 0.02 to 0.26), as a result of the multifaceted implementation strategy. No effects were found for behavioural determinants. The multifaceted implementation strategy can be used in healthcare settings to enhance the implementation of recommendations for the prevention of hand eczema. NTR2812. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.

Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound with VEGFR2-Targeted Microbubbles for Monitoring Regorafenib Therapy Effects in Experimental Colorectal Adenocarcinomas in Rats with DCE-MRI and Immunohistochemical Validation

PubMed Central

Clevert, Dirk-Andre; Hirner-Eppeneder, Heidrun; Ingrisch, Michael; Moser, Matthias; Schuster, Jessica; Tadros, Dina; Schneider, Moritz; Kazmierczak, Philipp Maximilian; Reiser, Maximilian; Cyran, Clemens C.

2017-01-01

Objectives To investigate contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) with VEGFR2-targeted microbubbles for monitoring therapy effects of regorafenib on experimental colon carcinomas in rats with correlation to dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI) and immunohistochemistry. Materials and Methods Human colorectal adenocarcinoma xenografts (HT-29) were implanted subcutaneously in n = 21 (n = 11 therapy group; n = 10 control group) female athymic nude rats (Hsd: RH-Foxn1rnu). Animals were imaged at baseline and after a one-week daily treatment with regorafenib or a placebo (10 mg/kg bodyweight), using CEUS with VEGFR2-targeted microbubbles and DCE-MRI. In CEUS tumor perfusion was assessed during an early vascular phase (wash-in area under the curve = WiAUC) and VEGFR2-specific binding during a late molecular phase (signal intensity after 8 (SI8min) and 10 minutes (SI10min)), using a conventional 15L8 linear transducer (transmit frequency 7 MHz, dynamic range 80 dB, depth 25 mm). In DCE-MRI functional parameters plasma flow (PF) and plasma volume (PV) were quantified. For validation purposes, CEUS parameters were correlated with DCE-MRI parameters and immunohistochemical VEGFR2, CD31, Ki-67 and TUNEL stainings. Results CEUS perfusion parameter WiAUC decreased significantly (116,989 ± 77,048 a.u. to 30,076 ± 27,095a.u.; p = 0.005) under therapy with no significant changes (133,932 ± 65,960 a.u. to 84,316 ± 74,144 a.u.; p = 0.093) in the control group. In the therapy group, the amount of bound microbubbles in the late phase was significantly lower in the therapy than in the control group on day 7 (SI8min: 283 ± 191 vs. 802 ± 460 a.u.; p = 0.006); SI10min: 226 ± 149 vs. 645 ± 461 a.u.; p = 0.009). PF and PV decreased significantly (PF: 147 ± 58 mL/100 mL/min to 71 ± 15 mL/100 mL/min; p = 0.003; PV: 13 ± 3% to 9 ± 4%; p = 0.040) in the therapy group. Immunohistochemistry revealed significantly fewer VEGFR2 (7.2 ± 1.8 vs. 17.8 ± 4.6; p < 0.001), CD31 (8.1 ± 3.0 vs. 20.8 ± 5.7; p < 0.001) and Ki-67 (318.7 ± 94.0 vs. 468.0 ± 133.8; p = 0.004) and significantly more TUNEL (672.7 ± 194.0 vs. 357.6 ± 192.0; p = 0.003) positive cells in the therapy group. CEUS parameters showed significant (p < 0.05) correlations to DCE-MRI parameters and immunohistochemistry. Conclusions CEUS with VEGFR2-targeted microbubbles allowed for monitoring regorafenib functional and molecular therapy effects on experimental colorectal adenocarcinomas with a significant decline of CEUS and DCE-MRI perfusion parameters as well as a significant reduction of specifically bound microbubbles under therapy, consistent with a reduced expression of VEGFR2. PMID:28060884

The Whiteley Index-6: An Examination of Measurement Invariance Among Self-Identifying Black, Latino, and White Respondents in Primary Care.

PubMed

Fergus, Thomas A; Kelley, Lance P; Griggs, Jackson O

2018-03-01

Brief measures that are comparable across disparate groups are particularly likely to be useful in primary care settings. Prior research has supported a six-item short form of the Whiteley Index (WI), a commonly used measure of health anxiety, among English-speaking respondents. This study examined the measurement invariance of the WI-6 among Black ( n = 183), Latino ( n = 173), and White ( n = 177) respondents seeking treatment at a U.S. community health center. Results supported a bifactor model of the WI-6 among the composite sample ( N = 533), suggesting the presence of a general factor and two domain-specific factors. Results supported the incremental validity of one of the domain-specific factors in accounting for unique variance in somatic symptom severity scores beyond the general factor. Multiple-groups confirmatory factor analysis supported the configural, metric, ands scalar invariance of the bifactor WI-6 model across the three groups of respondents. Results provide support for the measurement invariance of the WI-6 among Black, Latino, and White respondents. The potential use of the WI-6 in primary care, and broader, settings is discussed.

Theoretical and Experimental Methods in Hypersonic Flows (Les Methodes Theoriques et Experimentales pour l’Etude Des Ecoulements Hypersoniques)

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-04-01

PROCEEDINGS 514 OELECTE f Theoretical and A U Experimental Methods in A Hypersonic Flows (Les Methodes Th6oriques et Experimentales pour 1’Etude des...nitrogen ent for both equilibrium and non -equilibrium chemistry between the two groups . Both groups state that the boundary makes this mode even more...flowfield on control is also m?,ndatory unstable due to the necessary oblate shape of Hermes. when the experimental rebuilding is clearly poor and

Evaluation of Microencapsulated Penetrant Inspection.

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-12-01

AD-A9b 826 GENERAL ELECTRIC CO CINCINNATI OH AIRCRAFT ENGINE GROUP F/6 IA/2ADG EVALUATION OF MICROENCAPSULATED PENETRANT INSPECTION.(U) DEC 80 J M...4156 ADA096826 EVALUATION OF MICROENCAPSULATED PENETRANT INSPECTION i :I J.M. Portaz Aircraft Engine Group General Electric Company Cincinnati, Ohio... Microencapsulated Penetrant 5 7riJF-Iehica17 = Inspection p un May@84 -1 ---- --- ---- 19AMFGK657j7 7. AiJTHOR(s) nVCWRACT OR GRANT m 𔃻 " JO J.M./Portaz

Vibrational Spectra of Molecular Ions Isolated in Solid Neon. 6. CO4(-)

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-04-04

of each of these groups are nonequivalent . Arguments are preentee indicating that this product is the CO4- anion. The infrared frequencies of the...of an alkali metal, a prominent, complicated pattern of the CO2 group be nonequivalent . The complexity of the absorption absorptions near 1600 cm...ADDRESS(ES) 10. SPONSORING/MONITORING U. S. Army Research Office AGENCY REPORT NUMBER P. 0. Box 12211 Research Triangle Park, NC 27709-2211 Ae40 ,, -69. 9’H

U. S. Naval Forces, Vietnam Monthly Historical Supplement for June 1967

DTIC Science & Technology

1967-09-17

Sat Special Zone River Patrol Group ..••««•.«.. e 3 Delta River Patrol Group ...o.....«•...« 6 GAME WARDM Units 0 .... . 12 GAME WARDEN...at certain Operation GAME WARDEN and Ojreratxcn MARKET TIME support bas5So The work performed by the Seabees was part of th« continuing "Level of...operational availability of MARKET TIME and GAME WARDEN patrol boats continued to be generally excellent 5, ranging from 80 percent for WPBs and PCFs

Investigation of the recognition of an important uridine in an internal loop of a hairpin ribozyme prepared using post-synthetically modified oligonucleotides.

PubMed Central

Komatsu, Y; Kumagai, I; Ohtsuka, E

1999-01-01

We introduced 4-thio- ((4S)U), 2-thio- ((2S)U), 4- O -methyluridine ((4Me)U) and cytidine substitutions for U+2, which is an important base for cleavage in a substrate RNA. Oligonucleotides containing 4-thio- and 4- O -methyluridine were prepared by a new convenient post-synthetic modification method using a 4- O - p -nitrophenyl-uridine derivative. A hairpin ribozyme cleaved the substrate RNA with either C+2, (4S)U+2 or (4Me)U+2 at approximately 14-, 6- and 4-fold lower rates, respectively, than that of the natural substrate. In contrast, the substrate with a (2S)U+2 was cleaved with the same activity as the natural substrate. These results suggest that the O4 of U+2 is involved in hydrogen bonding at loop A, but the O2 of U+2 is not recognized by the active residues. Circular dichroism data of the ribozymes containing (4S)U+2 and (2S)U+2, as well as the susceptibility of the thiocarbonyl group to hydrogen peroxide, suggest that a conformational change of U+2 occurs during the domain docking in the cleavage reaction. We propose here the conformational change of U+2 from the ground state to the active molecule during the reaction. PMID:10536137

A point-of-care assessment of the effects of desmopressin on impaired platelet function using multiple electrode whole-blood aggregometry in patients after cardiac surgery.

PubMed

Weber, Christian F; Dietrich, Wulf; Spannagl, Michael; Hofstetter, Christian; Jámbor, Csilla

2010-03-01

Blood loss after cardiac surgery can be caused by acquired platelet dysfunction after cardiopulmonary bypass. Monitoring of platelet function is clinically important for the identification of patients experiencing such platelet dysfunction. 1-Deamino-8-D-arginine vasopressin (desmopressin acetate, DDAVP) has been shown to augment platelet function and to reduce blood loss in patients with platelet dysfunction. In this study, we examined the feasibility of whole blood multiple electrode aggregometry (MEA) for the detection of cardiopulmonary bypass-induced platelet dysfunction and investigated its ability to monitor DDAVP treatment. Fifty-eight consecutive patients with blood loss exceeding 150 mL/h in the first 2 consecutive hours after cardiac surgery were screened for suspected isolated platelet dysfunction. Twenty-two patients had suspected isolated platelet dysfunction and were enrolled in the study. Platelet dysfunction was assumed if conventional coagulation analyses (platelet count, activated partial thromboplastin time, international normalized ratio, and fibrinogen) did not show abnormal values as defined for transfusion of allogenic blood products, and no surgical cause of bleeding was suspected. Eleven patients received 0.3 microg/kg DDAVP, and 11 patients received no therapy in a nonrandomized manner. MEA was performed after stimulation with thrombin receptor-activating peptide (TRAPtest, 32 microM), adenosine diphosphate (ADPtest, 6.4 microM), and arachidonic acid (ASPItest, 0.5 mM) before and 2 hours after intervention. Conventional laboratory variables were recorded. The Mann-Whitney test was used to detect differences between the groups, and the Wilcoxon test was used to detect differences before and after intervention. All enrolled patients showed platelet dysfunction that manifested as impaired platelet aggregation in MEA before intervention. After the intervention, platelet function improved in the DDAVP group (49 U [30/72 U], median [25th/75th percentile] postintervention vs 15 U [8/21 U] preintervention for the ASPItest [P < 0.001]; 35 U [24/54 U] vs 14 U [7/28 U] for the ADPtest [P = 0.002]; and 85 U [66/115 U] vs 64 U [26/88 U] for the TRAPtest [P = 0.007]). In contrast, MEA remained unchanged in the control group (22 U [10/50 U] postintervention vs 33 U [14/57 U] preintervention for the ASPItest [P = 0.175]; 17 U [12/20 U] vs 14 U [10/28 U] for the ADPtest [P = 0.147]; and 65 U [41/89 U] vs 57 U [30/91 U] for the TRAPtest [P = 0.123]). Impaired platelet function after cardiac surgery can be assessed at the bedside using MEA. The effect of DDAVP on impaired platelet function can also be detected as significant improvement in platelet aggregation to all activators. This device might be helpful for the identification of patients who may benefit from DDAVP therapy.

Trends in Critical Care Beds and Use Among Population Groups and Medicare and Medicaid Beneficiaries in the United States: 2000-2010.

PubMed

Halpern, Neil A; Goldman, Debra A; Tan, Kay See; Pastores, Stephen M

2016-08-01

To analyze patterns of critical care medicine beds, use, and costs in acute care hospitals in the United States and relate critical care medicine beds and use to population shifts, age groups, and Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries from 2000 to 2010. Retrospective study of data from the federal Healthcare Cost Report Information System, American Hospital Association, and U.S. Census Bureau. None. None. Acute care U.S. hospitals with critical care medicine beds. From 2000 to 2010, U.S. hospitals with critical care medicine beds decreased by 17% (3,586-2,977), whereas the U.S. population increased by 9.6% (282.2-309.3M). Although hospital beds decreased by 2.2% (655,785-641,395), critical care medicine beds increased by 17.8% (88,235-103,900), a 20.4% increase in the critical care medicine-to-hospital bed ratio (13.5-16.2%). There was a greater percentage increase in premature/neonatal (29%; 14,391-18,567) than in adult (15.9%; 71,978-83,417) or pediatric (2.7%; 1,866-1,916) critical care medicine beds. Hospital occupancy rates increased by 10.4% (58.6-64.6%), whereas critical care medicine occupancy rates were stable (range, 65-68%). Critical care medicine beds per 100,000 total population increased by 7.4% (31.3-33.6). The proportional use of critical care medicine services by Medicare beneficiaries decreased by 17.3% (37.9-31.4%), whereas that by Medicaid rose by 18.3% (14.5-17.2%). Between 2000 and 2010, annual critical care medicine costs nearly doubled (92.2%; $56-108 billion). In the same period, the proportion of critical care medicine cost to the gross domestic product increased by 32.1% (0.54-0.72%). Critical care medicine beds, use, and costs in the United States continue to rise. The increasing use of critical care medicine by the premature/neonatal and Medicaid populations should be considered by healthcare policy makers, state agencies, and hospitals as they wrestle with critical care bed growth and the associated costs.

A world revision of the bee fly tribe Usiini (Diptera, Bombyliidae) Part 2: Usia sensu stricto.

PubMed

Gibbs, David

2014-05-22

This is the second part of a world revision of the genera Usia Latreille and Parageron Paramonov, of the tribe Usiini Becker, and covers the pale-haired species, the Usia sensu stricto group. Usia sensu stricto as defined here contains 24 species of which 16 species fall into two monophyletic groups, the U. lata group with 10 species and the U. florea group with six species. Eight species cannot be placed in either of these two groups, four of them form two pairs of sibling species while the remaining four species have no clear affinities. Of the 25 formerly available names that belong in Usia sensu stricto, U. putilla Becker stat. rev., previously synonymised under U. angustifrons, is reinstated as a full species. U. sicula Egger syn. nov., is synonymised under U. manca Loew, U. anus Becker syn. nov., is synonymised under U. vestita Macquart and U. claripennis Macquart syn. nov., is synonymised under U. atrata (Fabricius). Usia vicina Macquart, formerly placed as a synonym of U. atrata, is shown to be a junior synonym of U. aenea Rossi. Five new species are described, U. anatoliensis sp. nov., U. annetteae sp. nov., U. greatheadi sp. nov., U. maghrebensis sp. nov. and U. cornigera sp. nov. Both the male and female genitalia are illustrated in detail for 21 species, female only in the cases of U. calva Loew and U. notata Loew and male only for U. incognita Paramonov.

Differences in the Tensor Veli Palatini Between Adults With and Without Cleft Palate Using High-Resolution 3-Dimensional Magnetic Resonance Imaging.

PubMed

George, Thomas N; Kotlarek, Katelyn J; Kuehn, David P; Sutton, Bradley P; Perry, Jamie L

2018-05-01

To investigate the dimensions of the tensor veli palatini (TVP) muscle in adults with and without cleft palate. Prospective study. There were a total of 14 adult participants, 8 noncleft and 6 with cleft palate. Analysis and comparison of the TVP muscle and surrounding structures was completed using 3D MRI data and Amira 5.5 Visualization Modeling software. TVP muscle volume, hamular process distance, mucosal thickness, TVP muscle length, and TVP muscle diameter were used for comparison between participant groups based upon previous research methods. Mann-Whitney U tests revealed a significantly smaller ( U < .001, P = .002) TVP muscle volume in the cleft palate group (median = 536.22 mm 3 ) compared to individuals in the non-cleft palate group (median = 895.19 mm 3 ). The TVP muscle was also significantly shorter ( U = 1.00, P = .003) in the cleft palate group (median = 18.04 mm) versus the non-cleft palate (median = 21.18 mm). No significant differences were noted for the other measured parameters. Significant differences in the TVP muscle volume and length among the noncleft participants found in this study may insights into the reported increased incidence of otitis media with effusion (OME) seen in the cleft population. Results from this study contribute to our understanding of the underlying anatomic differences among individuals with cleft palate.

Usb1 controls U6 snRNP assembly through evolutionarily divergent cyclic phosphodiesterase activities.

PubMed

Didychuk, Allison L; Montemayor, Eric J; Carrocci, Tucker J; DeLaitsch, Andrew T; Lucarelli, Stefani E; Westler, William M; Brow, David A; Hoskins, Aaron A; Butcher, Samuel E

2017-09-08

U6 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (snRNP) biogenesis is essential for spliceosome assembly, but not well understood. Here, we report structures of the U6 RNA processing enzyme Usb1 from yeast and a substrate analog bound complex from humans. Unlike the human ortholog, we show that yeast Usb1 has cyclic phosphodiesterase activity that leaves a terminal 3' phosphate which prevents overprocessing. Usb1 processing of U6 RNA dramatically alters its affinity for cognate RNA-binding proteins. We reconstitute the post-transcriptional assembly of yeast U6 snRNP in vitro, which occurs through a complex series of handoffs involving 10 proteins (Lhp1, Prp24, Usb1 and Lsm2-8) and anti-cooperative interactions between Prp24 and Lhp1. We propose a model for U6 snRNP assembly that explains how evolutionarily divergent and seemingly antagonistic proteins cooperate to protect and chaperone the nascent snRNA during its journey to the spliceosome.The mechanism of U6 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (snRNP) biogenesis is not well understood. Here the authors characterize the enzymatic activities and structures of yeast and human U6 RNA processing enzyme Usb1, reconstitute post-transcriptional assembly of yeast U6 snRNP in vitro, and propose a model for U6 snRNP assembly.

Deformations, moduli stabilisation and gauge couplings at one-loop

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Honecker, Gabriele; Koltermann, Isabel; Staessens, Wieland

2017-04-01

We investigate deformations of Z_2 orbifold singularities on the toroidal orbifold {T}^6/(Z_2× Z_6) with discrete torsion in the framework of Type IIA orientifold model building with intersecting D6-branes wrapping special Lagrangian cycles. To this aim, we employ the hypersurface formalism developed previously for the orbifold {T}^6/(Z_2× Z_6) with discrete torsion and adapt it to the (Z_2× Z_6× Ω R) point group by modding out the remaining Z_3 subsymmetry and the orientifold projection Ω R. We first study the local behaviour of the Z_3× Ω R invariant deformation orbits under non-zero deformation and then develop methods to assess the deformation effects on the fractional three-cycle volumes globally. We confirm that D6-branes supporting USp(2 N) or SO(2 N) gauge groups do not constrain any deformation, while deformation parameters associated to cycles wrapped by D6-branes with U( N) gauge groups are constrained by D-term supersymmetry breaking. These features are exposed in global prototype MSSM, Left-Right symmetric and Pati-Salam models first constructed in [1, 2], for which we here count the number of stabilised moduli and study flat directions changing the values of some gauge couplings.

Glycaemic control and hypoglycaemia with insulin glargine 300 U/mL compared with glargine 100 U/mL in Japanese adults with type 2 diabetes using basal insulin plus oral anti-hyperglycaemic drugs (EDITION JP 2 randomised 12-month trial including 6-month extension).

PubMed

Terauchi, Y; Koyama, M; Cheng, X; Sumi, M; Riddle, M C; Bolli, G B; Hirose, T

2017-10-01

To compare insulin glargine 300 U/mL (Gla-300) with glargine 100 U/mL (Gla-100) in Japanese adults with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes on basal insulin and oral anti-hyperglycaemic drugs over 12 months. EDITION JP 2 was a randomised, open-label, phase 3 study. Following a 6-month treatment period, participants continued receiving previously assigned once daily Gla-300 or Gla-100, plus oral anti-hyperglycaemic drugs, in a 6-month extension period. Glycaemic control, hypoglycaemia and adverse events were assessed. The 12-month completion rate was 88% for Gla-300 and 96% for Gla-100, with comparable reasons for discontinuation. Mean HbA 1c decrease from baseline to month 12 was 0.3% in both groups. Annualised rates of confirmed (≤3.9mmol/L [≤70mg/dL]) or severe hypoglycaemia were lower with Gla-300 than Gla-100 (nocturnal [00:00-05:59h]: rate ratio 0.41; 95% confidence interval: 0.18 to 0.92; anytime [24h]: rate ratio 0.64; 95% confidence interval: 0.44 to 0.94). Cumulative number of hypoglycaemic events was lower with Gla-300 than Gla-100. Adverse event profiles were comparable between treatments. Over 12 months, Gla-300-treated participants achieved sustained glycaemic control and experienced less hypoglycaemia, particularly at night, versus Gla-100, supporting 6-month results. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Detecting prediabetes among Hispanics/Latinos from diverse heritage groups: Does the test matter? Findings from the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos.

PubMed

Avilés-Santa, M Larissa; Pérez, Cynthia M; Schneiderman, Neil; Savage, Peter J; Kaplan, Robert C; Teng, Yanping; Suárez, Erick L; Cai, Jianwen; Giachello, Aida L; Talavera, Gregory A; Cowie, Catherine C

2017-02-01

The objectives of this analysis were to compare the ability of fasting plasma glucose (FPG), post oral load plasma glucose (2hPG), and hemoglobin A 1c (HbA 1c ) to identify U.S. Hispanic/Latino individuals with prediabetes, and to assess its cardiovascular risk factor correlates. This is a cross-sectional analysis of baseline data from 15,507 adults without self-reported diabetes mellitus from six Hispanic/Latino heritage groups, enrolled in the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos, which takes place in four U.S. communities. The prevalence of prediabetes was determined according to individual or combinations of ADA-defined cut points: FPG=5.6-7.0mmol/L, 2hPG=7.8-11.1mmol/L, and HbA 1c =5.7%-6.4% (39-46mmol/mol). The sensitivity of these criteria to detect prediabetes was estimated. The prevalence ratios (PRs) for selected cardiovascular risk factors were compared among alternative categories of prediabetes versus normoglycemia [FPG<5.6mmol/L and 2hPG<7.8mmol/L and HbA 1c <5.7% (39mmol/mol)]. Approximately 36% of individuals met any of the ADA prediabetes criteria. Using 2hPG as the gold standard, the sensitivity of FPG was 40.1%, HbA 1c was 45.6%, and that of HbA 1c +FPG was 62.2%. The number of significant PRs for cardiovascular risk factors was higher among individuals with isolated 2hPG=7.8-11.1mmol/L, FPG=5.6-7.0mmol/L+HbA 1c =5.7%-6.4%, or those who met the three prediabetes criteria. Assessing FPG, HbA 1c , and cardiovascular risk factors in Hispanics/Latinos at risk might enhance the early prevention of diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular complications in this young and growing population, independent of their heritage group. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Musculoskeletal safety outcomes of patients receiving daptomycin with HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors.

PubMed

Bland, Christopher M; Bookstaver, P Brandon; Lu, Z Kevin; Dunn, Brianne L; Rumley, Kathey Fulton

2014-10-01

Daptomycin, a cyclic lipopeptide antibiotic, and 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors (statins) are commonly administered in the inpatient setting and are associated with creatine phosphokinase (CPK) elevations, myalgias, and muscle weakness. Safety data for coadministration of daptomycin with statins are limited. To determine the safety of coadministration of daptomycin with statin therapy, a multicenter, retrospective, observational study was performed at 13 institutions in the Southeastern United States. Forty-nine adult patients receiving statins concurrently with daptomycin were compared with 171 patients receiving daptomycin without statin therapy. Detailed information, including treatment indication and duration, infecting pathogen, baseline and subsequent CPK levels, and presence of myalgias or muscle complaints, was collected. Myalgias were noted in 3/49 (6.1%) patients receiving combination therapy compared with 5/171 (2.9%) of patients receiving daptomycin alone (P = 0.38). CPK elevations of >1,000 U/liter occurred in 5/49 (10.2%) patients receiving combination therapy compared to 9/171 (5.3%) patients receiving daptomycin alone (P = 0.32). Two of five patients experiencing CPK elevations of >1,000 U/liter in the combination group had symptoms of myopathy. Three patients (6.1%) discontinued therapy due to CPK elevations with concurrent myalgias in the combination group versus 6 patients (3.5%) in the daptomycin-alone group (P = 0.42). CPK levels and myalgias reversed upon discontinuation of daptomycin therapy. Overall musculoskeletal toxicity was numerically higher in the combination group but this result was not statistically significant. Further prospective study is warranted in a larger population. Copyright © 2014, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

Wear Resistant Coatings for Titanium.

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-10-01

A-AllI 716 PRATT AND WHITNEY AIRCRAFT GROUP WEST PALM BEACH FL O-ETC P/f 11/6 WEAR RESISTANT COATINGS FOR TITANI WI.(U) OCT GO P L MCDANIEL, R E...treat cycle should be com- patible with previous heat-treat history and selected in accordance with MIL-H-81200. 11. (Option) - Vapor blast surfaces. 27...heat-treat history of the base metal and selected in accordance with MIL-H-81200 unless otherwise specified (see 6.2). Titanium alloys not covered by

Origin of Short-Perihelion Comets

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Guliyev, A. S.

2011-01-01

New regularities for short-perihelion comets are found. Distant nodes of cometary orbits of Kreutz family are concentrated in a plane with ascending node 76 and inclination 267 at the distance from 2 up to 3 a.u. and in a very narrow interval of longitudes. There is a correlation dependence between q and cos I concerning the found plane (coefficient of correlation 0.41). Similar results are received regarding to cometary families of Meyer, Kracht and Marsden. Distant nodes of these comets are concentrated close three planes (their parameters are discussed in the article) and at distances 1.4; 0.5; 6 a.u. accordingly. It is concluded that these comet groups were formed as a result of collision of parent bodies with meteoric streams. One more group, consisting of 7 comets is identified. 5 comet pairs are selected among sungrazers.

Flame Retardant Exposure among Collegiate U.S. Gymnasts

PubMed Central

Carignan, Courtney C.; Heiger-Bernays, Wendy; McClean, Michael D.; Roberts, Simon C.; Stapleton, Heather M.; Sjödin, Andreas; Webster, Thomas F.

2013-01-01

Gymnastics training facilities contain large volumes of polyurethane foam, a material that often contains additive flame retardants such as PentaBDE. While investigations of human exposure to flame retardants have focused on the general population, potentially higher than background exposures may occur in gymnasts and certain occupational groups. Our objectives were to compare PentaBDE body burden among gymnasts to the general U.S. population and characterize flame retardants levels in gym equipment, air and dust. We recruited 11 collegiate female gymnasts (ages 18–22) from one gym in the Eastern U.S. The geometric mean (GM) concentration of BDE-153 in gymnast sera (32.5 ng/g lipid) was 4–6.5 times higher than general U.S. population groups. Median concentrations of PentaBDE, TBB and TBPH in paired handwipe samples were 2–3 times higher after practice compared to before, indicating the gymnasts contacted these flame retardants during practice. GM concentrations of PentaBDE, TBB and TBPH were 1-3 orders of magnitude higher in gym air and dust than in residences. Our findings suggest that these collegiate gymnasts experienced higher exposures to PentaBDE flame retardants compared to the general U.S. population and that gymnasts may also have increased exposure to other additive flame retardants used in polyurethane foam such as TBB and TBPH. PMID:24195753

A double-blind, randomized, controlled trial on N-acetylcysteine for the prevention of acute kidney injury in patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

PubMed

Ataei, Sara; Hadjibabaie, Molouk; Moslehi, Amirhossein; Taghizadeh-Ghehi, Maryam; Ashouri, Asieh; Amini, Elham; Gholami, Kheirollah; Hayatshahi, Alireza; Vaezi, Mohammad; Ghavamzadeh, Ardeshir

2015-06-01

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is one of the complications of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and is associated with increased mortality. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a thiol compound with antioxidant and vasodilatory properties that has been investigated for the prevention of AKI in several clinical settings. In the present study, we evaluated the effects of intravenous NAC on the prevention of AKI in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation patients. A double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial was conducted, and 80 patients were recruited to receive 100 mg/kg/day NAC or placebo as intermittent intravenous infusion from day -6 to day +15. AKI was determined on the basis of the Risk-Injury-Failure-Loss-End-stage renal disease and AKI Network criteria as the primary outcome. We assessed urine neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (uNGAL) on days -6, -3, +3, +9 and +15 as the secondary outcome. Moreover, transplant-related outcomes and NAC adverse reactions were evaluated during the study period. Statistical analysis was performed using appropriate parametric and non-parametric methods including Kaplan-Meier for AKI and generalized estimating equation for uNGAL. At the end of the trial, data from 72 patients were analysed (NAC: 33 patients and placebo: 39 patients). Participants of each group were not different considering baseline characteristics. AKI was observed in 18% of NAC recipients and 15% of placebo group patients, and the occurrence pattern was not significantly different (p = 0.73). Moreover, no significant difference was observed between groups for uNGAL measures (p = 0.10). Transplant-related outcomes were similar for both groups, and all patients had successful engraftment. Three patients did not tolerate NAC because of abdominal pain, shortness of breath and rash with pruritus and were dropped from the intervention group before transplantation. However, the frequency of adverse reactions was not significantly different between groups. In conclusion, our findings could not show any clinical benefits from high-dose NAC particularly for AKI prevention in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation patients. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Antepartum prophylactic transabdominal amnioinfusion in preterm pregnancies complicated by oligohydramnios.

PubMed

Turhan, N O; Atacan, N

2002-01-01

To assess the role of amnioinfusion in preterm pregnancies with oligohydramnios. 29 women between 23 and 35 weeks' gestation were enrolled in the study. Transabdominal amnioinfusion was performed in 15 pregnancies, 14 patients were managed expectantly. The latency period and perinatal outcome of both groups were compared using the Mann-Whitney U-test and chi(2)-test. The amniotic fluid index significantly increased from a median value of 6 to 11 cm (P<0.0001) in the amnioinfusion group after amnioinfusion. The latency period of the amnioinfusion group was significantly longer (median 15 vs. 8 days P<0.05). Gestational week of the amnioinfusion group was earlier on admission (median 30.6 vs. 33.4 weeks, P=0.01) but at delivery this diversity disappeared (median 33.4 vs. 34.8 weeks, P=0.10). The perinatal outcomes of the two groups were similar. Transabdominal amnioinfusion prolongs the latency period and improves perinatal outcome in preterm pregnancies complicated by oligohydramnios.

Pilot test of a peer-led small-group video intervention to promote mammography screening among Chinese American immigrants

PubMed Central

Maxwell, Annette E.; Wang, Judy H.; Young, Lucy; Crespi, Catherine M.; Mistry, Ritesh; Sudan, Madhuri; Bastani, Roshan

2010-01-01

This study evaluated the feasibility, acceptability and potential effect of a small-group video intervention led by trained Chinese American lay educators who recruited Chinese American women not up to date on mammography screening. Nine lay educators conducted 14 “breast health tea time workshops” in community settings and private homes that started with watching a culturally tailored video promoting screening followed by a question and answer session and distribution of print materials. Many group attendees did not have health insurance or a regular doctor, had low levels of income and were not proficient in English. Forty-four percent of the attendees reported receipt of a mammogram within 6 months after the small-group session with higher odds of screening among women who had lived in the U.S. less than 10% of their lifetime. Four of the educators were very interested in conducting another group session in the next 6 months. PMID:20720095

Co-inheritance of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency mutations and hemoglobin E in a Kachin population in a malaria-endemic region of Southeast Asia

PubMed Central

He, Lijun; Li, Qing; Wu, Yanrui; Luo, Lan; Li, Hong; Ma, Limei; Yang, Zhaoqing; He, Yongshu; Cui, Liwang

2017-01-01

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency and hemoglobin E (HbE, β26 Glu-Lys) are two common red cell disorders in Southeast Asia. G6PD deficiency produces hemolytic anemia, which can be triggered by certain drugs or infections. HbE is asymptomatic or is manifested as microcytic, minimally hemolytic anemia. The association between G6PD deficiency and HbE is little understood. This study aimed to investigate G6PD deficiency and HbE in a Kachin ethnic group in the China-Myanmar border area. G6PD enzyme activity was measured using a quantitative G6PD assay, G6PD variants genotyped by the SNaPshot assay, and an HbE gene mutation identified by an amplification refractory mutation system and subsequently confirmed by using a reverse dot blot hybridization assay from 100 unrelated individuals in the study area. G6PD enzyme activity ranged from 0.4 to 24.7 U/g Hb, and six males had severe G6PD deficiency (<0.12–1.2 U/g Hb), while six males and 12 females had mild G6PD deficiency (>1.2–4.5 U/g Hb). Among the 24 G6PD-deficient subjects, 22 (92%) had the Mahidol 487G>A mutation (12 male hemizygotes, one female homozygote, and nine female heterozygotes), while the G6PD genotypes in two female subjects were unknown. HbE was identified in 39 subjects (20 males and 19 females), including 15 HbEE (seven males and eight females) and 24 HbAE (13 males and 11 females). Twenty-three subjects co-inherited both G6PD deficiency and HbE (22 with HbAE and one with HbEE). Whereas mean Hb levels were not significantly different between the HbA and HbE groups, G6PD-deficient males had significantly lower Hb levels than G6PD-normal males (P < 0.05, t-test). However, it is noteworthy that two G6PD-deficient hemizygous males with HbAE were severely anemic with Hb levels below 50 g/L. This study revealed high prevalence of co-inheritance of G6PD deficiency with HbAE in the Kachin ethnicity, and a potential interaction of the G6PD Mahidol 487G>A and HbAE in males leading to severe anemia. The presence of 6% males with severe G6PD deficiency raised a major concern in the use of primaquine for radical cure of vivax malaria. PMID:28531196

Co-inheritance of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency mutations and hemoglobin E in a Kachin population in a malaria-endemic region of Southeast Asia.

PubMed

Deng, Zeshuai; Yang, Fang; Bai, Yao; He, Lijun; Li, Qing; Wu, Yanrui; Luo, Lan; Li, Hong; Ma, Limei; Yang, Zhaoqing; He, Yongshu; Cui, Liwang

2017-01-01

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency and hemoglobin E (HbE, β26 Glu-Lys) are two common red cell disorders in Southeast Asia. G6PD deficiency produces hemolytic anemia, which can be triggered by certain drugs or infections. HbE is asymptomatic or is manifested as microcytic, minimally hemolytic anemia. The association between G6PD deficiency and HbE is little understood. This study aimed to investigate G6PD deficiency and HbE in a Kachin ethnic group in the China-Myanmar border area. G6PD enzyme activity was measured using a quantitative G6PD assay, G6PD variants genotyped by the SNaPshot assay, and an HbE gene mutation identified by an amplification refractory mutation system and subsequently confirmed by using a reverse dot blot hybridization assay from 100 unrelated individuals in the study area. G6PD enzyme activity ranged from 0.4 to 24.7 U/g Hb, and six males had severe G6PD deficiency (<0.12-1.2 U/g Hb), while six males and 12 females had mild G6PD deficiency (>1.2-4.5 U/g Hb). Among the 24 G6PD-deficient subjects, 22 (92%) had the Mahidol 487G>A mutation (12 male hemizygotes, one female homozygote, and nine female heterozygotes), while the G6PD genotypes in two female subjects were unknown. HbE was identified in 39 subjects (20 males and 19 females), including 15 HbEE (seven males and eight females) and 24 HbAE (13 males and 11 females). Twenty-three subjects co-inherited both G6PD deficiency and HbE (22 with HbAE and one with HbEE). Whereas mean Hb levels were not significantly different between the HbA and HbE groups, G6PD-deficient males had significantly lower Hb levels than G6PD-normal males (P < 0.05, t-test). However, it is noteworthy that two G6PD-deficient hemizygous males with HbAE were severely anemic with Hb levels below 50 g/L. This study revealed high prevalence of co-inheritance of G6PD deficiency with HbAE in the Kachin ethnicity, and a potential interaction of the G6PD Mahidol 487G>A and HbAE in males leading to severe anemia. The presence of 6% males with severe G6PD deficiency raised a major concern in the use of primaquine for radical cure of vivax malaria.

Insulin-mimetic effects of short-term rapamycin in type 1 diabetic patients prior to islet transplantation.

PubMed

Benedini, Stefano; Ermetici, Federica; Briganti, Silvia; Codella, Roberto; Terruzzi, Ileana; Maffi, Paola; Caldara, Rossana; Secchi, Antonio; Nano, Rita; Piemonti, Lorenzo; Alejandro, Rodolfo; Ricordi, Camillo; Luzi, Livio

2018-04-13

The immunosuppressive drug rapamycin may influence insulin sensitivity in insulin-responsive tissues. This study aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of rapamycin pre-treatment before pancreatic islet allotransplantation (ITx) in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Forty-one T1DM patients were studied. Thirteen patients with poor glycemic control underwent a short-term rapamycin treatment before ITx (Group 1), and they were compared to 28 patients undergoing ITx without rapamycin pre-treatment (Group 2). Outcomes were daily insulin requirement (DIR), fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, C-peptide and the SUITO index of beta-cell function. A subgroup of patients pre-treated with rapamycin before ITx underwent euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp with [6,6- 2 H 2 ] glucose before and after ITx to evaluate insulin sensitivity. We found a significant reduction in DIR after rapamycin pre-treatment (- 8 ± 6 U/day, mean ± SD, p < 0.001) and 1 year after ITx. DIR reduction 1 year after ITx was greater in Group 1 as compared to Group 2 (- 37 ± 15 vs. - 19 ± 13 U/day, p = 0.005) and remained significant after adjusting for gender, age, glucose and baseline HbA1c (beta = 18.2 ± 5.9, p = 0.006). Fasting glucose and HbA1c significantly decreased 1 year after ITx in Group 1 (HbA1c: - 2.1 ± 1.4%, p = 0.002), while fasting C-peptide (+0.5 ± 0.3 nmol/l, p = 0.002) and SUITO index increased (+57.4 ± 39.7, p = 0.016), without differences between the two groups. Hepatic glucose production decreased after rapamycin pre-treatment (- 1.1 ± 1.1 mg/kg/min, p = 0.04) and after ITx (- 1.6 ± 0.6 mg/kg/min, p = 0.015), while no changes in peripheral glucose disposal were observed. Rapamycin pre-treatment before ITx succeeds in reducing insulin requirement, enhancing hepatic insulin sensitivity. This treatment may improve short-term ITx outcomes, possibly in selected patients with T1DM complicated by insulin resistance. Clinicaltrials.gov NCT01060605; NCT00014911.

Dollar Summary of Prime Contract Awards by Contractor, State or Country, and Place. Part 3 (E&E Reisen - Hiawatha Rubber Co)

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-01-01

w ui 3j W3A b a w ww w w u i U j L A u a w Wa 4*to a o a N C4 anL (a "Cc cm em an a aD a A a GOO F6 46 404 S. >0 I.J man com 04 R 12 CM e4cc ~ m I...I WC: I co r aCCa 001 I-I 0. 0 NCJ o #1.U0 1-- 44 4 -4W C )C (JN -4~y 001 4 4 1I~ C’I1- mmcoco 44 I I. 4 C . a I- U. >- -4.- 010 00 - 1 . Za -C 4 vm...6W1-6z x. z-z- U~.L 4c -C I.--.4- z~L L W~mm 09~ ac -4- U..CI -I io ACLZ 0 U 3 0 0 (0 62 0 z I. zzz (A 6 000 Csd 314" 6 6 CA (ft 4.WU U . U A F4 F6 I I

An Alumni Assessment of MIS Related Job Skill Importance and Skill Gaps

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wilkerson, Jerod W.

2012-01-01

This paper presents the results of a job skill survey of Management Information Systems (MIS) alumni from a Northeastern U.S. university. The study assesses job skill importance and skill gaps associated with 104 technical and non-technical skill items. Survey items were grouped into 6 categories based on prior research. Skill importance and skill…

11 CFR 100.5 - Political committee (2 U.S.C. 431 (4), (5), (6)).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

...— (i) A single corporation and/or its subsidiaries; (ii) A single national or international union and... international unions and/or all its State and local central bodies; (iv) A membership organization, (other than... person or group of persons. (4)(i) The Commission may examine the relationship between organizations that...

32 CFR 329.6 - Procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... an individual be given access to records that are not in a group of records that meet the definition of a SOR in 5 U.S.C. 552a. (8) No verification of identity shall be required of an individual seeking..., to verify his or her identity, as outlined in 32 CFR part 310, subpart D. (ii) Any individual making...

3 CFR 13651 - Executive Order 13651 of August 6, 2013. Prohibiting Certain Imports of Burmese Jadeite and Rubies

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... America, including the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) (IEEPA), the... of America, hereby order: Section 1. (a) The importation into the United States of any jadeite or...” means a partnership, association, trust, joint venture, corporation, group, subgroup, or other...

Using a Partitioned Treatment Design to Examine the Effect of Project WET

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

D'Agostino, Jerome V.; Schwartz, Kerry L.; Cimetta, Adriana D.; Welsh, Megan E.

2007-01-01

Although young people in 50 U.S. states and 21 countries learn about water resources through Project WET (Water Education for Teachers), few researchers have conducted summative evaluations of the program. The authors employed a partitioned, or differential, treatments design in which two groups of 6th-grade students received overlapping but…

A Taiwan Study Abroad Program on Aging, Culture, and Healthcare

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hou, Su-I

2018-01-01

This article introduces a Taiwan Study Abroad program on aging, culture, and healthcare. The program is a short-term academic summer program (6 credits) to bring U.S. students to Taiwan. During 2011 ~ 2015, a total of four groups including over 54 students and faculty members participated. This program partnered with multiple universities,…

By Force or by Fraud: Optimizing U.S. Information Strategy With Deception

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-06-01

IV. CASE- STUDY ASSESSMENTS ........................................................................37 A. CASE 1 OVERVIEW: THE DHOFAR REBELLION, 1965...xvi SOF Special Operations Forces SOG Studies and Observations Group USIA United States Information Agency VC Viet Cong...The Development of Overt and Covert Propaganda Strategies,” Presidential Studies Quarterly 24, no. 2 (Spring 1994): 265. 6 Ibid. 4 USIA departments

Insulin production rate in normal man as an estimate for calibration of continuous intravenous insulin infusion in insulin-dependent diabetic patients.

PubMed

Waldhäusl, W K; Bratusch-Marrain, P R; Francesconi, M; Nowotny, P; Kiss, A

1982-01-01

This study examines the feasibility of deriving the 24-h insulin requirement of insulin-dependent diabetic patients who were devoid of any endogenous insulin release (IDD) from the insulin-production rate (IPR) of healthy man (basal, 17 mU/min; stimulated 1.35 U/12.5 g glucose). To this end, continuous intravenous insulin infusion (CIVII) was initiated at a precalculated rate of 41.2 +/- 4.6 (SD) U/24 h in IDD (N - 12). Blood glucose profiles were compared with those obtained during intermittent subcutaneous (s.c.) insulin therapy (IIT) and those of healthy controls (N = 7). Regular insulin (Hoechst CS) was infused with an adapted Mill Hill Infuser at a basal infusion rate of 1.6 U/h (6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.), and of 0.8 U/h from 8:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. Preprandial insulin (3.2-6.4 U) was added for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Daily individual food intake totaled 7688 +/- 784 kJ (1836 +/- 187 kcal)/24 h including 184 +/- 37 g of glucose. Proper control of blood glucose (BG) (mean BG 105 +/- 10 mg/dl; mean amplitude of glycemic excursions 54 +/- 18 mg/dl; and 1 h postprandial BG levels not exceeding 160 mg/dl) and of plasma concentrations of beta-hydroxybutyrate and lactate was maintained by 41.4 +/- 4.4 U insulin/24 h. Although BG values only approximated the upper normal range as seen in healthy controls, they were well within the range reported by others during CIVII. Therefore, we conclude that in adult IDD completely devoid of endogenous insulin (1) the IPR of normal man can be used during CIVII as an estimate for the patient's minimal insulin requirement per 24 h, and (2) this approach allows for a blood glucose profile close to the upper range of a normal control group. Thus, deriving a patient's daily insulin dose from the insulin production rate of healthy man may add an additional experimental protocol which aids in making general calculations of a necessary insulin dose instead of using trial and error or a closed-loop insulin infusion system.

Facile synthesis of magnetic Fe3O4/graphene composites for enhanced U(VI) sorption

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Donglin; Zhu, Hongyu; Wu, Changnian; Feng, Shaojie; Alsaedi, Ahmed; Hayat, Tasawar; Chen, Changlun

2018-06-01

A novel magnetic Fe3O4/graphene composite (FGC) was fabricated by a facile one-step reaction route and shown to be effective for sorbing U(VI) from aqueous solution. The structure, properties and application of the prepared FGC composite were well evaluated. The high saturation magnetization (45.6 emu/g) made FGC easier to be separated from the media within several seconds under an external magnetic. Effects of different ambient conditions (i.e., pH and ionic strength, contact time, temperatures) on sorption behaviors of U(VI) on FGC were carried out by batch experiments. According to the calculation of Langmuir model, the maximum sorption capacity of U(VI) on the FGC at pH 5.5 and 298 K was 176.47 mg/g. The sorption was correlated with the effects of pH, contact time, and temperature. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis revealed that U(VI) was sorbed on FGC via oxygen-containing functional groups. This work demonstrated that FGC could be recycled and used as an effective recyclable sorbent for sorption of U(VI).

NAVSPASUR System Performance Analysis

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-03-16

I’ 0 0 . a ~ 04 W 4 A ~ 0 0M O a 0 00 00 * ~ ~~ ~~~~~~~~~ 0 O0.1 4 01 U. . M O 6 U- 4444 0 -U U j C 4 ,0u a.* ll0.AO S-4C4U 0 aCCA A aao5 U V U U U...c 0. A O a v ~ N .3 c3 o it @4 66W4 4w 0 4oo 00 N 02 0 . 0. 1. -CI Z. 6- ,n 4 . *, . 444 .2 a.’. 04 ’ 4 - 4 ’.2’ ix -. Id 06 f3 6 6 to . 4 16...8217 U -, 1 0 -4 N 41 - 0 -- 0 4C r 0 -N 0 P 4 4 f3 .4 E 0 04 19 00 C-I 0 ONO.U1 : U U ow 0 0-U .4 > 0 0 a 3; AU " w U b. a. 0. o (0.. 04 09 U 0 k.- 4

Analytical research and development for the Whitney Programs. Automation and instrumentation. Computer automation of the Cary Model 17I spectrophotometer

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

Haugen, G.R.; Bystroff, R.I.; Downey, R.M.

1975-09-01

In the area of automation and instrumentation, progress in the following studies is reported: computer automation of the Cary model 17I spectrophotometer; a new concept for monitoring the concentration of water in gases; on-line gas analysis for a gas circulation experiment; and count-rate-discriminator technique for measuring grain-boundary composition. In the area of analytical methodology and measurements, progress is reported in the following studies: separation of molecular species by radiation pressure; study of the vaporization of U(thd)$sub 4$, (thd = 2,2,6,6-tetramethylheptane-3,5-drone); study of the vaporization of U(C$sub 8$H$sub 8$)$sub 2$; determination of ethylenic unsaturation in polyimide resins; and, semimicrodetermination of hydroxylmore » and amino groups with pyromellitic dianhydride (PMDA). (JGB)« less

Expanding the remarkable structural diversity of uranyl tellurites: hydrothermal preparation and structures of K[UO(2)Te(2)O(5)(OH)], Tl(3)[(UO(2))(2)[Te(2)O(5)(OH)](Te(2)O(6))].2H(2)O, beta-Tl(2)[UO(2)(TeO(3))(2)], and Sr(3)[UO(2)(TeO(3))(2)](TeO(3))(2).

PubMed

Almond, Philip M; Albrecht-Schmitt, Thomas E

2002-10-21

The reactions of UO(2)(C(2)H(3)O(2))(2).2H(2)O with K(2)TeO(3).H(2)O, Na(2)TeO(3) and TlCl, or Na(2)TeO(3) and Sr(OH)(2).8H(2)O under mild hydrothermal conditions yield K[UO(2)Te(2)O(5)(OH)] (1), Tl(3)[(UO(2))(2)[Te(2)O(5)(OH)](Te(2)O(6))].2H(2)O (2) and beta-Tl(2)[UO(2)(TeO(3))(2)] (3), or Sr(3)[UO(2)(TeO(3))(2)](TeO(3))(2) (4), respectively. The structure of 1 consists of tetragonal bipyramidal U(VI) centers that are bound by terminal oxo groups and tellurite anions. These UO(6) units span between one-dimensional chains of corner-sharing, square pyramidal TeO(4) polyhedra to create two-dimensional layers. Alternating corner-shared oxygen atoms in the tellurium oxide chains are protonated to create short/long bonding patterns. The one-dimensional chains of corner-sharing TeO(4) units found in 1 are also present in 2. However, in 2 there are two distinct chains present, one where alternating corner-shared oxygen atoms are protonated, and one where the chains are unprotonated. The uranyl moieties in 2 are bound by five oxygen atoms from the tellurite chains to create seven-coordinate pentagonal bipyramidal U(VI). The structures of 3 and 4 both contain one-dimensional [UO(2)(TeO(3))(2)](2-) chains constructed from tetragonal bipyramidal U(VI) centers that are bridged by tellurite anions. The chains differ between 3 and 4 in that all of the pyramidal tellurite anions in 3 have the same orientation, whereas the tellurite anions in 4 have opposite orientations on each side of the chain. In 4, there are also additional isolated TeO(3)(2-) anions present. Crystallographic data: 1, orthorhombic, space group Cmcm, a = 7.9993(5) A, b = 8.7416(6) A, c = 11.4413(8) A, Z = 4; 2, orthorhombic, space group Pbam, a = 10.0623(8) A, b = 23.024(2) A, c = 7.9389(6) A, Z = 4; 3, monoclinic, space group P2(1)/n, a = 5.4766(4) A, b = 8.2348(6) A, c = 20.849(3) A, beta = 92.329(1) degrees, Z = 4; 4, monoclinic, space group C2/c, a = 20.546(1) A, b = 5.6571(3) A, c = 13.0979(8) A, beta = 94.416(1) degrees, Z = 4.

The Hetu'u Global Network: Measuring the Distance to the Sun with the Transit of Venus

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rodriguez, David; Faherty, J.

2013-01-01

In the spirit of historic astronomical endeavors, we invited school groups across the globe to collaborate in a solar distance measurement using the 2012 transit of Venus. In total, our group (stationed at Easter Island, Chile) recruited 19 school groups spread over 6 continents and 10 countries to participate in our Hetu’u Global Network. Applying the methods of French astronomer Joseph-Nicolas Delisle, we used individual second and third Venus-Sun contact times to calculate the distance to the Sun. Ten of the sites in our network had amiable weather; 8 of which measured second contact and 5 of which measured third contact leading to consistent solar distance measurements of 152+/-30 million km and 163+/-30 million km respectively. The distance to the Sun at the time of the transit was 152.25 million km; therefore, our measurements are also consistent within 1-sigma of the known value. The goal of our international school group network was to inspire the next generation of scientists using the excitement and accessibility of such a rare astronomical event. In the process, we connected hundreds of participating students representing a diverse, multi-cultural group with differing political, economic, and racial backgrounds.

Deep intraspecific DNA barcode splits and hybridisation in the Udea alpinalis group (Insecta, Lepidoptera, Crambidae) – an integrative revision

PubMed Central

Mally, Richard; Huemer, Peter; Nuss, Matthias

2018-01-01

Abstract The analysis of mitochondrial COI data for the European-Centroasian montane Udea alpinalis species group finds deep intraspecific splits. Specimens of U. austriacalis and U. rhododendronalis separate into several biogeographical groups. These allopatric groups are not recovered in the analyses of the two nuclear markers wingless and Elongation factor 1-alpha, except for U. austriacalis from the Pyrenees and the French Massif Central. The latter populations are also morphologically distinct and conspecific with Scopula donzelalis Guenée, 1854, which is removed from synonymy and reinstated as Udea donzelalis (Guenée, 1854) stat. rev. Furthermore, Udea altaica (Zerny, 1914), stat. n. from the Mongolian central Altai mountains, U. juldusalis (Zerny, 1914), stat. n. from the Tian Shan mountains of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and NW China, and U. plumbalis (Zerny, 1914), stat. n. from the Sayan Mountains of Northern Mongolia are raised to species level, and lectotypes are designated. Evidence of introgression of U. alpinalis into U. uliginosalis at three localities in the Central Alps is presented. A screening for Wolbachia using the markers wsp, gatB and ftsZ was negative for the U. alpinalis species group, but Wolbachia was found in single specimens of U. fulvalis and U. olivalis (both in the U. numeralis species group). We do not find evidence for the conjecture of several authors of additional subspecies in U. rhododendronalis, and synonymise U. rhododendronalis luquetalis Leraut, 1996, syn. n. and U. r. ventosalis Leraut, 1996, syn. n. with the nominal U. rhododendronalis (Duponchel, 1834). PMID:29674896

Comparative investigation of the solution species [U(CO3)5]6- and the crystal structure of Na6[U(CO3)5].12H2O.

PubMed

Hennig, Christoph; Ikeda-Ohno, Atsushi; Emmerling, Fanziska; Kraus, Werner; Bernhard, Gert

2010-04-21

The limiting U(IV) carbonate species in aqueous solution was investigated by comparing its structure parameters with those of the complex preserved in a crystal structure. The solution species prevails in aqueous solution of 0.05 M U(IV) and 1 M NaHCO(3) at pH 8.3. Single crystals of Na(6)[U(CO(3))(5)].12H(2)O were obtained directly from this mother solution. The U(IV) carbonate complex in the crystal structure was identified as a monomeric [U(CO(3))(5)](6-) anionic complex. The interatomic distances around the U(IV) coordination polyhedron show average distances of U-O = 2.461(8) A, U-C = 2.912(4) A and U-O(dist) = 4.164(6) A. U L(3)-edge EXAFS spectra were collected from the solid Na(6)[U(CO(3))(5)].12H(2)O and the corresponding solution. The first shell of the Fourier transforms (FTs) revealed, in both samples, a coordination of ten oxygen atoms at an average U-O distance of 2.45 +/- 0.02 A, the second shell originates from five carbon atoms with a U-C distance of 2.91 +/- 0.02 A, and the third shell was fit with single and multiple scattering paths of the distal oxygen at 4.17 +/- 0.02 A. These data indicate the identity of the [U(CO(3))(5)](6-) complex in solid and solution state. The high negative charge of the [U(CO(3))(5)](6-) anion is compensated by Na(+) cations. In solid state the Na(+) cations form a bridging network between the [U(CO(3))(5)](6-) units, while in liquid state the Na(+) cations seem to be located close to the anionic complex. The average metal-oxygen distances of the coordination polyhedron show a linear correlation to the radius contraction of the neighbouring actinide(IV) ions and indicate the equivalence of the [An(CO(3))(5)](6-) coordination within the series of thorium, uranium, neptunium and plutonium.

Free energy landscapes of RNA/RNA complexes: with applications to snRNA complexes in spliceosomes.

PubMed

Cao, Song; Chen, Shi-Jie

2006-03-17

We develop a statistical mechanical model for RNA/RNA complexes with both intramolecular and intermolecular interactions. As an application of the model, we compute the free energy landscapes, which give the full distribution for all the possible conformations, for U4/U6 and U2/U6 in major spliceosome and U4atac/U6atac and U12/U6atac in minor spliceosome. Different snRNA experiments found contrasting structures, our free energy landscape theory shows why these structures emerge and how they compete with each other. For yeast U2/U6, the model predicts that the two distinct experimental structures, the four-helix junction structure and the helix Ib-containing structure, can actually coexist and specifically compete with each other. In addition, the energy landscapes suggest possible mechanisms for the conformational switches in splicing. For instance, our calculation shows that coaxial stacking is essential for stabilizing the four-helix junction in yeast U2/U6. Therefore, inhibition of the coaxial stacking possibly by protein-binding may activate the conformational switch from the four-helix junction to the helix Ib-containing structure. Moreover, the change of the energy landscape shape gives information about the conformational changes. We find multiple (native-like and misfolded) intermediates formed through base-pairing rearrangements in snRNA complexes. For example, the unfolding of the U2/U6 undergoes a transition to a misfolded state which is functional, while in the unfolding of U12/U6atac, the functional helix Ib is found to be the last one to unfold and is thus the most stable structural component. Furthermore, the energy landscape gives the stabilities of all the possible (functional) intermediates and such information is directly related to splicing efficiency.

Tectonics of Precambrian basement along the Pacific margin of Antarctica and relation to western North America

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

Goodge, J.W.; Hansen, V.L.; Walker, N.W.

1993-02-01

High-grade metamorphic rocks of the Precambrian Nimrod Group (NG) constitute one of few cratonal basement exposures in the Transantarctic Mountains. These rocks represent an outlier of the East Antarctic craton, evolved as part of Gondwana and pre-Gondwana (Rodinia) supercontinents. Despite pervasive, high-strain ductile deformation at T [>=] 650 C, they preserve petrologic and geochronologic evidence of an earlier history. Sm-Nd model ages from several NG lithologies, including that of a [approximately]1.7 Ga orthogneiss, range from about 2.7--2.9 Ga; these ages reflect both sedimentary and magmatic derivation from Archean crust. Individual detrital zircon U-Pb ages (about 1.7--2.6 Ga) from NG quartzitesmore » indicate clastic input from Archean to Paleoproterozoic source terrains. The Sm-Nd and U-Pb ages are reminiscent of both the Yavapai-Mazatzal (1.6--1.8 Ga) and Wyoming (> 2.5 Ga) provinces in western North America. U-Pb ages from syn-tectonic metaigneous and pelitic NG tectonites indicate that this basement complex was re-worked by the major ductile deformation in latest neoproterozoic to Early Cambrian time. Supracrustal assemblages that lie outboard of the Nimrod craton include Neoproterozoic graywacke, impure carbonate, and minor mafic volcanics (Beardmore Group), and Cambrian to Lower Ordovician carbonate and siliciclastic rocks (Byrd Group). Neoproterozoic ([approximately]750 Ma) rifting along the proto-Pacific margin of East Antarctica is reflected by deposition of Beardmore turbidites and coeval mafic magmatism. Latest Neoproterozoic to early Paleozoic orogenesis occurred along a left-oblique convergent plate margin of East Antarctica is reflected by deposition of Beardmore turbidites and coeval mafic magmatism.« less

Lack of association between MAOA-uVNTR variants and excessive daytime sleepiness.

PubMed

Ozen, Filiz; Yegin, Zeynep; Yavlal, Figen; Saglam, Zuhal Aydan; Koc, Haydar; Berber, Ismet

2017-05-01

Sleep disorders are highly prevalent in the population and have dramatic health, social, and economic impacts. However, their treatments may remain symptomatic due to ignorance of molecular factors which may provide fundamental insights into the neurological bases of sleep. Excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) is a common complaint encountered in neurological practice with significant effects both on individuals and on society. We aimed to investigate the role of monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) as a candidate gene in EDS. Epworth sleepiness scale (ESS) was applied to 221 subjects who were also genotyped for MAOA upstream variable number of tandem repeats (MAOA-uVNTR). Patient group displayed higher ESS values (mean 12.67) when compared with the control group (mean 6.38). However, MAOA-uVNTR genotypes did not show a significant association with ESS scores neither on women nor on men. Finally, these data suggest further replications in different populations. Moreover, the investigation of some other genes together with MAOA and/or some possible regulatory molecular mechanisms may offer a more comprehensive approach in the role of genetic factors contributing to EDS.

Getting to uptake: do communities of practice support the implementation of evidence-based practice?

PubMed

Barwick, Melanie A; Peters, Julia; Boydell, Katherine

2009-02-01

Practitioners are increasingly encouraged to adopt evidence-based practices (EBP) leading to a need for new knowledge translation strategies to support implementation and practice change. This study examined the benefits of a community of practice in the context of Ontario's children's mental health sector where organizations are mandated to adopt a standardized outcome measure to monitor client response to treatment. Readiness for change, practice change, content knowledge, and satisfaction with and use of implementation supports were examined among practitioners newly trained on the measure who were randomly assigned to a community of practice (CoP) or a practice as usual (PaU) group. CoP practitioners attended 6 sessions over 12 months; PaU practitioners had access to usual implementation supports. Groups did not differ on readiness for change or reported practice change, although CoP participants demonstrated greater use of the tool in practice, better content knowledge and were more satisfied with implementation supports than PaU participants. CoPs present a promising model for translating EBP knowledge and promoting practice change in children's mental health that requires further study.

Effects of fetal hypothyroidism on uterine smooth muscle contraction and structure of offspring rats.

PubMed

Bagheripuor, Fatemeh; Ghanbari, Mahboubeh; Piryaei, Abbas; Ghasemi, Asghar

2018-05-01

What is the central question of this study? Does fetal hypothyroidism in rats alter uterine contractions and structure in the adult offspring? What is the main finding and its importance? Our study indicated that maternal hypothyroidism during pregnancy increased gestational length and decreased litter size. In addition, maternal hypothyroidism caused delayed puberty onset, irregular uterine contractions and histological changes in the uterus in the female offspring. This model might contribute to a better understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in uterine contractions in fetal hypothyroidism, studies which are not possible in humans, and might help to establish therapeutic methods for these disorders observed in uterine contractions. Thyroid hormones play an essential role in fetal growth. Hypothyroidism impairs reproductive function in both humans and animals. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of fetal hypothyroidism on uterine smooth muscle contraction and structure in the adult offspring. The control group of female Wistar rats consumed tap water, whereas the hypothyroid group received water containing 0.025% of 6-propyl-2-thiouracial throughout gestation from mating until delivery. Isometric contractility and histological changes in uterine tissue were evaluated in the adult female offspring. We tested the effects of carbachol (10 -10 -10 -3  m) and oxytocin (10 -13 -10 -8  m) on uterine smooth muscle contraction in the fetal hypothyroid (FH) and control groups. Compared with control uteri, carbachol induced contractions with lower amplitude in the FH group (area under the curve: 1820.0 ± 250.0 versus 1370.0 ± 125.0 a.u., control versus FH group, respectively, P < 0.001) and frequency (86.4 ± 7.3 versus 37.0 ± 6.1 a.u., P < 0.001). Likewise, after exposure to oxytocin the amplitude (6614.0 ± 492.2 versus 4793.0 ± 735.2 a.u., P < 0.001) and frequency (367.4 ± 32.0 versus 167.0 ± 39.0 a.u., P < 0.001) of uterine contractions in the FH group were significantly lower than in the control group. In addition, the thickness of the endometrium and smooth muscle layer and the cross-sectional area of the uterus were also significantly lower in the FH group. Gestational length was longer and litter size smaller in FH rats compared with control animals; FH offspring also had delayed puberty. In conclusion, thyroid hormone deficiency during pregnancy increased gestational length and decreased litter size; in the offspring, it delayed puberty onset, reduced uterine rhythmic contractions and resulted in uterine structural changes. © 2018 The Authors. Experimental Physiology © 2018 The Physiological Society.

Efficacy and safety of oral desensitization in children with cow's milk allergy according to their serum specific IgE level.

PubMed

García-Ara, Carmen; Pedrosa, María; Belver, María Teresa; Martín-Muñoz, María Flor; Quirce, Santiago; Boyano-Martínez, Teresa

2013-04-01

Oral desensitization in children allergic to cow's milk proteins is not risk free. The analysis of factors that may influence the outcome is of utmost importance. To analyze the efficacy and safety of the oral desensitization according to specific IgE (sIgE) level and adverse events during the maintenance phase. Thirty-six patients allergic to cow's milk (mean age, 7 years) were included in an oral desensitization protocol. Patients were grouped according to sIgE levels (ImmunoCAP) into groups 1 (sIgE <3.5 kU/L), 2 (3.5-17 kU/L), and 3 (>17-50 kU/L). Nineteen children were included as a control group. Serum sIgE levels to cow's milk and its proteins were determined at inclusion and 6 and 12 months after finishing the desensitization protocol. Thirty-three of 36 patients were successfully desensitized (200 mL): 100% of group 1 and 88% of groups 2 and 3. Desensitization was achieved in a median of 3 months (range, 1-12 months); 90% of the patients in group 1, 50% of the patients in group 2, and 30% of the patients in group 3 achieved tolerance in less than 3 months (P = .04). In the control group only 1 child tolerated milk in oral food challenge after 1 year. During the induction phase, there were 53 adverse events in 27 patients (75%). Patients of groups 2 and 3 had more severe adverse events compared with group 1. During the maintenance phase, 20 of 33 patients (60%) had an adverse event. Oral desensitization is efficacious. Tolerance is achieved earlier when sIgE is lower. Severe adverse events are frequent, especially in patients with higher sIgE levels. Copyright © 2013 American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Bioaccumulation of metals by lichens: Uptake of aqueous uranium by Peltigera membranacea as a function of time and pH

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

Haas, J.R.; Bailey, E.H.; Purvis, O.W.

1998-11-01

Uranium sorption experiments were carried out at {approximately}25 C using natural samples of the lichen Peltigera membranacea. Thalli were incubated in solutions containing 100 ppm U for up to 24 h at pH values from 2 to 10. Equilibrium sorption was not observed at less than {approximately}6 h under any pH condition. U sorption was strongest in the pH range 4--5, with maximum sorption occurring at a pH of 4.5 and an incubation time of 24 h. Maximum U uptake by P. membranacea averaged {approximately}42,000 ppm, or {approximately}4.2 wt% U. This appears to represent the highest concentration of biosorbed U,more » relative to solution U activity, of any lichen reported to date. Investigation of post-experimental lichen tissues using electron probe microanalysis (EPM) reveals that U uptake is spatially heterogeneous within the lichen body, and that U attains very high local concentrations on scattered areas of the upper cortex. Energy dispersive spectroscopic (EDS) analysis reveals that strong U uptake correlates with P signal intensity, suggesting involvement of biomass-derived phosphate ligands or surface functional groups in the uptake process.« less

Upstream regulatory elements are necessary and sufficient for transcription of a U6 RNA gene by RNA polymerase III.

PubMed Central

Das, G; Henning, D; Wright, D; Reddy, R

1988-01-01

Whereas the genes coding for trimethyl guanosine-capped snRNAs are transcribed by RNA polymerase II, the U6 RNA genes are transcribed by RNA polymerase III. In this study, we have analyzed the cis-regulatory elements involved in the transcription of a mouse U6 snRNA gene in vitro and in frog oocytes. Transcriptional analysis of mutant U6 gene constructs showed that, unlike most known cases of polymerase III transcription, intragenic sequences except the initiation nucleotide are dispensable for efficient and accurate transcription of U6 gene in vitro. Transcription of 5' deletion mutants in vitro and in frog oocytes showed that the upstream region, within 79 bp from the initiation nucleotide, contains elements necessary for U6 gene transcription. Transcription studies were carried out in frog oocytes with U6 genes containing 5' distal sequence; these studies revealed that the distal element acts as an orientation-dependent enhancer when present upstream to the gene, while it is orientation-independent but distance-dependent enhancer when placed down-stream to the U6 gene. Analysis of 3' deletion mutants showed that the transcription termination of U6 RNA is dependent on a T cluster present on the 3' end of the gene, thus providing further support to other lines of evidence that U6 genes are transcribed by RNA polymerase III. These observations suggest the involvement of a composite of components of RNA polymerase II and III transcription machineries in the transcription of U6 genes by RNA polymerase III. Images PMID:3366121

Match analysis of U9 and U10 english premier league academy soccer players using a global positioning system: relevance for talent identification and development.

PubMed

Goto, Heita; Morris, John G; Nevill, Mary E

2015-04-01

The purpose of this study was to examine the match activity profile of U9 and U10 elite soccer players and to establish if there were any differences between players who were subsequently retained or released by their clubs. Such information should prove valuable in the design of training programs for these very young players and in the talent identification and development process. A Global Positioning System was used to analyze 2-4 interacademy 6-a-side matches of English Premier League Academy players (U9: N = 22 and U10: N = 12) who trained 3 times a week (4.5 hours). Speed zones were created based on 5 and 10-m sprint times, and an independent sample t-test was employed for a statistical analysis. Both squads covered ∼4,000 m in total or ∼4,700 m·h during a match (p = NS between squads), with the U10 squad tending to cover a greater distance at moderate (p = 0.10) and high speeds (p = 0.08) than the U9 squad. Retained group covered a greater distance than released group (retained vs. released: 4,478 ± 513 m vs. 4,091 ± 462 m, p < 0.05) during a match and covered a greater distance during low-speed running in absolute (1,226 ± 259 m vs. 1,005 ± 221 m, p < 0.05) and relative (1,325 ± 235 m·h vs. 1,132 ± 210 m·h, p < 0.05) terms. Thus, U9 and U10 players cover over 4000 m in match play, and those players who are retained by academies cover a greater distance in total and at low speeds (2.1-3.1 m·s). This information may support the preparation of squad training programs and the talent identification and development process.

Rapid synthesis of maleimide functionalized fluorine-18 labeled prosthetic group using "radio-fluorination on the Sep-Pak" method.

PubMed

Basuli, Falguni; Zhang, Xiang; Jagoda, Elaine M; Choyke, Peter L; Swenson, Rolf E

2018-06-30

Following our recently published fluorine-18 labeling method, "Radio-fluorination on the Sep-Pak", we have successfully synthesized 6-[ 18 F]fluoronicotinaldehyde by passing a solution (1:4 acetonitrile: t-butanol) of its quaternary ammonium salt precursor, 6-(N,N,N-trimethylamino)nicotinaldehyde trifluoromethanesulfonate (2), through a fluorine-18 containing anion exchange cartridge (PS-HCO 3 ). Over 80% radiochemical conversion was observed using 10 mg of precursor within 1 minute. The [ 18 F]fluoronicotinaldehyde ([ 18 F]5) was then conjugated with 1-(6-(aminooxy)hexyl)-1H-pyrrole-2,5-dione to prepare the fluorine-18 labeled maleimide functionalized prosthetic group, 6-[ 18 F]fluoronicotinaldehyde O-(6-(2,5-dioxo-2,5-dihydro-1H-pyrrol-1-yl)hexyl) oxime, 6-[ 18 F]FPyMHO ([ 18 F]6). The current Sep-Pak method not only improves the overall radiochemical yield (50 ± 9%, decay-corrected, n = 9) but also significantly reduces the synthesis time (from 60-90 minutes to 30 minutes) when compared with literature methods for the synthesis of similar prosthetic groups. Published 2018. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.

Comparative randomized pilot study of azithromycin and doxycycline efficacy and tolerability in the treatment of prostate infection caused by Ureaplasma urealyticum.

PubMed

Skerk, Visnja; Mareković, Ivana; Markovinović, Leo; Begovac, Josip; Skerk, Vedrana; Barsić, Neven; Majdak-Gluhinić, Vida

2006-01-01

A total of 1,442 patients with symptoms of chronic prostatitis were examined over a 4-year period at the Outpatient Department for Urogenital Infections, University Hospital for Infectious Diseases Dr. Fran Mihaljević, Zagreb, Croatia. The inclusion criteria for chronic prostatitis caused by Ureaplasma urealyticum were the presence of clinical symptoms, presence of U. urealyticum in expressed prostatic secretion (EPS) or voided urine collected immediately after prostatic massage (VB(3)), absence of U. urealyticum in urethral swabs and absence of other possible pathogens of chronic prostatitis in EPS or VB(3). A total of 63 patients with prostate infection caused by U. urealyticum were available for this pilot study. The patients were randomized according to a computer randomization list to receive a total dose of 4.5 g of azithromycin given as a 3-day therapy of 1 x 500 mg weekly for 3 weeks or doxycyline 100 mg b.i.d. for 21 days. Patients' sexual partners were treated at the same time. Clinical efficacy and tolerability of the administered drug as well as possible adverse events were evaluated during, at the end and 4-6 weeks after completion of therapy. Bacteriological efficacy was evaluated 4-6 weeks after completion of therapy. Treatment groups did not differ regarding age, distribution of urethral, prostatic, sexual and other symptoms, or digitorectal prostatic examination. Five patients treated with doxycycline had nausea. In the group of patients with prostate infection caused by U. urealyticum, the eradication rate was not significantly different with regard to the administered azithromycin (25/32) or doxycycline (23/31). Clinical cure did not significantly differ with regard to the administered azithromycin (22/32) or doxycycline (21/31). Copyright 2006 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Father's Role in Breastfeeding Promotion: Lessons from a Quasi-Experimental Trial in China.

PubMed

Su, Min; Ouyang, Yan-Qiong

2016-04-01

The aims of this study were to evaluate the effectiveness of an educational intervention involving fathers on breastfeeding initiation and exclusive breastfeeding rate, and to explore mothers' perceptions of their partners' support of breastfeeding. This study was a quasi-experimental pretest-posttest design with two groups. A convenience sample consisting of 72 expectant mothers was recruited. Thirty-six women with their partners were assigned to the intervention group, and 36 women alone were in the control group. Both groups were offered similar education contents, and the intervention group was given additional information on how fathers could support their partners, both emotionally and physically, during the breastfeeding process. Student's t test, chi-square test, and Mann-Whitney U test were used to detect group differences. The prevalence rates of exclusive breastfeeding at 4 months and 6 months of the intervention group were significantly higher than there were in the control group (51.4% and 26.4%, p = 0.034; 40.0% and 17.6%, p = 0.041). Women in the intervention group were less likely to use infant formula at 1 and 6 months postpartum (5.6% and 23.5%, p = 0.032; 20.0% and 44.1%, p = 0.032). Related to the process of breastfeeding, partners in the intervention group supported their partners by taking care of the infant, doing housework, and providing emotional support. Involving the fathers in breastfeeding education could improve the exclusive breastfeeding rate and prolong the duration of exclusive breastfeeding. The mothers appreciated support from the fathers.

Spaceflight on the Bion-M1 biosatellite alters cerebral artery vasomotor and mechanical properties in mice

PubMed Central

Sofronova, Svetlana I.; Tarasova, Olga S.; Gaynullina, Dina; Borzykh, Anna A.; Behnke, Bradley J.; Stabley, John N.; McCullough, Danielle J.; Maraj, Joshua J.; Hanna, Mina; Muller-Delp, Judy M.; Vinogradova, Olga L.

2015-01-01

Conditions during spaceflight, such as the loss of the head-to-foot gravity vector, are thought to potentially alter cerebral blood flow and vascular resistance. The purpose of the present study was to determine the effects of long-term spaceflight on the functional, mechanical, and structural properties of cerebral arteries. Male C57BL/6N mice were flown 30 days in a Bion-M1 biosatellite. Basilar arteries isolated from spaceflight (SF) (n = 6), habitat control (HC) (n = 6), and vivarium control (VC) (n = 16) mice were used for in vitro functional and mechanical testing and histological structural analysis. The results demonstrate that vasoconstriction elicited through a voltage-gated Ca2+ mechanism (30–80 mM KCl) and thromboxane A2 receptors (10−8 − 3 × 10−5 M U46619) are lower in cerebral arteries from SF mice. Inhibition of Rho-kinase activity (1 μM Y27632) abolished group differences in U46619-evoked contractions. Endothelium-dependent vasodilation elicited by acetylcholine (10 μM, 2 μM U46619 preconstriction) was virtually absent in cerebral arteries from SF mice. The pressure-diameter relation was lower in arteries from SF mice relative to that in HC mice, which was not related to differences in the extracellular matrix protein elastin or collagen content or the elastin/collagen ratio in the basilar arteries. Diameter, medial wall thickness, and medial cross-sectional area of unpressurized basilar arteries were not different among groups. These results suggest that the microgravity-induced attenuation of both vasoconstrictor and vasodilator properties may limit the range of vascular control of cerebral perfusion or impair the distribution of brain blood flow during periods of stress. PMID:25593287

Changes in salivary gland function after radiotherapy of head and neck tumors measured by quantitative pertechnetate scintigraphy: Comparison of intensity-modulated radiotherapy and conventional radiation therapy with and without Amifostine

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

Muenter, Marc W.; Hoffner, Simone; Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg

2007-03-01

Purpose: The aim of this study was to compare changes in salivary gland function after intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) and conventional radiotherapy (RT), with or without Amifostine, for tumors of the head-and-neck region using quantitative salivary gland scintigraphy (QSGS). Methods and Materials: A total of 75 patients received pre- and post-therapeutic QSGS to quantify the salivary gland function. In all, 251 salivary glands were independently evaluated. Changes in the maximum uptake ({delta}U) and relative excretion rate ({delta}F) both pre- and post-RT were determined to characterize radiation-induced changes in the salivary gland function. In addition, dose-response curves were calculated. Results: In allmore » groups, maximum uptake and relative excretion rate were reduced after RT ({delta}U {<=}0 and {delta}F {<=}0). The reduction was significantly lower for IMRT than for conventional RT. For the parotid glands, the reduction was smaller for the IMRT-low than for the IMRT-high group. For the Amifostine-high and the conventional group the difference was significant only for one parameter ({delta}U, parotid and submandibular glands, p < 0.05). In contrast to this, the difference between the Amifostine-low and the conventional group was always significant or at least showed a clear trend for both changes in U and F. In regard to the endpoint 'reduction of the salivary gland excretion rate of more than 50%,' the dose-response curves yielded D{sub 50}-values of 34.2 {+-} 12.2 Gy for the conventionally treated group and 36.8 {+-} 2.9 Gy for the IMRT group. For the Amifostine group, an increased D{sub 50}-values of 46.3 {+-} 2.3 Gy was obtained. Conclusion: Intensity-modulated RT can significantly reduce the loss of parotid gland function when respecting a certain dose threshold. Conventional RT plus Amifostine prevents reduced salivary gland function only in the patient group treated with <40.6 Gy.« less

[Growth effect of eucalyptus-acacia mixed plantation in South China].

PubMed

Yang, Zeng-Jiang; Xu, Da-Ping; Chen, Wen-Ping; Huang, Lie-Jian; Li, Shang-Jun; Chen, Yuan

2009-10-01

Eucalyptus U6 and Acacia crassicarpa were mixed planted with different ratios and modes to investigate the growth parameters of the two tree species. In the 2-3 years old mixed plantation, the wind-throw of A. crassicarpa decreased markedly with increasing ratio of Eucalyptus U6, the decrement being 26.14% when the Eucalyptus U6/A. crassicarpa ratio was 3 : 1, but the survival rates of Eucalyptus U6 and A. crassicarpa had no significant difference under different planting modes. Mixed planting retarded the A. crassicarpa growth to some extent, with the DBH being 90% of that in pure A. crassicarpa stand. The mixed planting had little effects on the height growth of Eucalyptus U6, but promoted its DBH growth markedly, and the beneficial effect increased with increasing ratio of A. crassicarpa. In the 6 years old 1 : 1 Eucalyptus U6/A. crassicarpa plantation, the Eucalyptus U6 individuals with DBH > 15 cm occupied 32.1%; while in pure Eucalyptus U6 stand, they only accounted for 5.83%. Mixed planting with 2 : 1 Eucalyptus U6/A. crassicarpa could obtain a maximum total biomass of 198.8 m3 x hm(-2), which was 118.8% of the total biomass in pure Eucalyptus U6 stand, or 169.9% of that in pure A. crassicarpa stand. Mixture of Eucalyptus with Acacia would be a good choice to produce Eucalyptus trees with larger DBH.

The effect of protein and glycemic index on children's body composition: the DiOGenes randomized study.

PubMed

Papadaki, Angeliki; Linardakis, Manolis; Larsen, Thomas M; van Baak, Marleen A; Lindroos, Anna Karin; Pfeiffer, Andreas F H; Martinez, J Alfredo; Handjieva-Darlenska, Teodora; Kunesová, Marie; Holst, Claus; Astrup, Arne; Saris, Wim H M; Kafatos, Anthony

2010-11-01

To investigate the effect of protein and glycemic index (GI) on body composition among European children in the randomized, 6-month dietary intervention DiOGenes (diet, obesity, and genes) family-based study. In the study, 827 children (381 boys and 446 girls), aged 5 to 18 years, completed baseline examinations. Families with parents who lost ≥ 8% of their weight during an 8-week run-in low-calorie diet period were randomly assigned to 1 of 5 ad libitum diets: low protein (LP)/low glycemic index (LGI); LP/high GI (HGI); high protein (HP)/LGI; HP/HGI; and control diet. The target difference was 15 GI U between the LGI/HGI groups and 13 protein percentage points between the LP/HP groups. There were 658 children examined after 4 weeks. Advice on food-choice modification was provided at 6 visits during this period. No advice on weight loss was provided because the focus of the study was the ability of the diets to affect outcomes through appetite regulation. Anthropometric measurements and body composition were assessed at baseline, week 4, and week 26. In the study, 465 children (58.1%) completed all assessments. The achieved differences between the GI and protein groups were 2.3 GI U and 4.9 protein percentage points, respectively. The LP/HGI group increased body fat percentage significantly more than the other groups (P = .040; partial η(2) = 0.039), and the percentage of overweight/obese children in the HP/LGI group decreased significantly during the intervention (P = .031). Neither GI nor protein had an isolated effect on body composition. However, the LP/HGI combination increased body fat, whereas the HP/LGI combination was protective against obesity in this sample of children.

Red Blood Cell Transfusions in Greece: Results of a Survey of Red Blood Cell Use in 2013.

PubMed

Valsami, Serena; Grouzi, Elisavet; Pouliakis, Abraham; Fountoulaki-Paparisos, Leontini; Kyriakou, Elias; Gavalaki, Maria; Markopoulos, Elias; Kontopanou, Ekaterini; Tsolakis, Ioannis; Tsantes, Argyrios; Tsoka, Alexandra; Livada, Anastasia; Rekari, Vassiliki; Vgontza, Niki; Agoritsa, Dimitra; Politou, Marianna; Nousis, Stavros; Argyrou, Aspasia; Manaka, Ekaterini; Baka, Maria; Mouratidou, Maria; Tsitlakidou, Stavroula; Malekas, Konstantinos; Maltezo, Dimitrios; Papadopoulou, Paraskevi; Pournara, Vassiliki; Tirogala, Ageliki; Lysikatos, Emmanouil; Pefani, Sousanna; Stamoulis, Konstantinos

2017-03-01

Greece is ranked as the second highest consumer of blood components in Europe. For an effective transfusion system and in order to reduce variability of transfusion practice by implementing evidence-based transfusion guidelines it is necessary to study and monitor blood management strategies. Our study was conducted in order to evaluate the use of red blood cell units (RBC-U) in nationwide scale mapping parameters that contribute to their proper management in Greece. The survey was conducted by the Working Committee of Transfusion Medicine&Apheresis of the Hellenic Society of Hematology from January to December 2013. The collected data included the number, ABO/D blood group, patients' department, and storage age of RBC-U transfused. The number of RBC-U evaluated was 103,702 (17.77%) out of 583,457 RBC-U transfused in Greece in 2013. RBC-U transfused by hospital department (mean percentage) was as follows: Surgery 29.34%, Internal Medicine 29.48%, Oncology/Hematology 14.65%, Thalassemia 8.87%, Intensive Care Unit 6.55%, Nephrology 1.78%, Obstetrics/Gynecology 1.46%, Neonatal&Pediatric 0.31%, Private Hospitals 8.57%. RBC-U distribution according to ABO/D blood group was: A: 39.02%, B: 12.41%, AB: 5.16%, O: 43.41%, D+: 87.99%, D-: 12.01%. The majority of RBC-U (62.46%) was transfused in the first 15 days of storage, 25.24% at 16 to 28 days, and 12.28% at 29-42 days. Despite a high intercenter variability in RBC transfusions, surgical and internal medicine patients were the most common groups of patients transfused with an increasing rate for internal medicine patients. The majority of RBC-U were transfused within the first 15 days of storage, which is possibly the consequence of blood supply insufficiency leading to the direct use of fresh blood. Benchmarking transfusion activity may help to decrease the inappropriate use of blood products, reduce the cost of care, and optimize the use of the voluntary donor's gift.

Panasonic HR-1800 Hand-Held Computer Solutions to Composite Materials Formulas.

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-09-01

TR-83-4093 PROGRAM LISTING (Cont’d) I, : E-6 :PE*u3 D RINT 3 =U4---4*U3 gtr -BINf X𔃾)=U5-C4§U3 GS fQ :T SEXT *lJ 3 54A@ ;OSUB 6)i6’S2*U2J ,’-54 PLA... SEXT * 3’E6 ":W=X(ue) E:=E1*A(1i:E2:- * * :628800)E=6. ~.-- (33B4*A~ )2A QPmI 5 39 a@ G$=" T r4EH 310 1APUT p~~4 ~2’ -;C SUB 3800 ŗUCK!:4G (T’...u (?00

Three-week combination treatment with ACTH + magnesium sulfate versus ACTH monotherapy for infantile spasms: a 24-week, randomized, open-label, follow-up study in China.

PubMed

Zou, Li-Ping; Wang, Xu; Dong, Chang-Hong; Chen, Chun-Hong; Zhao, Wei; Zhao, Ruo-Yan

2010-04-01

Infantile spasms (IS) is an age-specific and severe epileptic encephalopathy that occurs in infancy and early childhood and is usually refractory to conventional antiepileptic drugs. Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) has been the treatment of choice for IS, but ACTH use has been associated with infection and hypertension. Magnesium ion is an N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA)-noncompetitive antagonist that might inhibit NMDA activity and has antiepileptic and neuroprotective effects. This study compared the efficacy and tolerability of ACTH + magnesium sulfate (MgSO(4)) versus ACTH monotherapy for the treatment of IS. This 24-week, randomized, open-label follow-up study enrolled male and female infants with IS. Patients were randomly assigned to receive ACTH 25 U/d + MgSO(4) 0.25 g/kg/d, or ACTH 25 U/d only (control), intravenously for 3 weeks. Efficacy was assessed over a period of 24 weeks based on seizure frequency, EEG, and Gesell testing of psychomotor skills (subscales: language, motor, adaptive, and personal-social skills; measured using a developmental quotient [DQ] ). Tolerability was assessed by monitoring for adverse events using laboratory analysis and clinical evaluation. Thirty-eight infants were enrolled (23 male, 15 female; median age, 9.2 months; 19 patients per group). At 12 weeks, 14 patients (73.7%) who received ACTH + MgSO(4) and 9 patients (47.4%) in the control group were seizure free. At 24 weeks, seizure-free rates were 12 (63.2%) in the ACTH + MgSO(4) group and 10 (52.6%) in the control group. On EEG, 9 patients (47.4%) in the ACTH + MgSO(4) group achieved complete recovery (normalized EEG), 5 (26.3 %) attained partial improvement (multifocal spike wave), and 5 (26.3%) had no improvement (hypsarrhythmia or modified hypsarrhythmia). At 4 weeks, in the control group, 5 patients (26.3 %) achieved complete recovery, 6 (31.6%) achieved partial improvement, and 8 (42.1%) had no improvement. Of the 12 patients who were seizure free at 24 weeks in the ACTH + MgSO(4) group, 11 (91.7%) had complete recovery (normalized EEG); this rate was 7 of 10 (70.0%) in the control group. In the ACTH + MgSO(4) group, the change from baseline to 24 weeks in mean (SD) personal-social DQ was significant (from 48.6 [6.4] to 65.2 [7.1], respectively; P < 0.05). In the control group, the difference before and after treatment was nonsignificant (47.7 [6.0] vs 49.9 [4.4]). None of the other Gesell test findings were significant versus baseline. The most common AEs included upper respiratory tract infection and pyrexia (both, 3 [15.8%] per group); diarrhea (2 [10.5%] per group); and hypertension, insomnia, and irritability (all, 0 in the ACTH + MgSO(4) group and 2 [10.5%] in the control group). None of the between-group differences in the prevalences of AEs were significant between the 2 groups. In this study in infants with IS, the proportions of patients who were seizure free from 4 to 24 weeks were significantly greater in the ACTH + MgSO(4) group compared with the ACTH monotherapy group. Personal-social neurodevelopment was significantly improved from baseline in the group that received combination treatment. Both treatments were generally well tolerated. International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial no. ISRCTN 78654111.

Impact of borderline-subclinical hypothyroidism on subsequent pregnancy outcome in women with unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss.

PubMed

Uchida, Sayaka; Maruyama, Tetsuo; Kagami, Maki; Miki, Fumie; Hihara, Hanako; Katakura, Satomi; Yoshimasa, Yushi; Masuda, Hirotaka; Uchida, Hiroshi; Tanaka, Mamoru

2017-06-01

Because subclinical hypothyroidism (thyroid-stimulating hormone [TSH] > 4.5 IU/mL) is associated with adverse pregnancy outcome, including early pregnancy loss, TSH is recommended to be titrated to ≤2.5 mIU/L in levothyroxine-treated women before pregnancy. The purpose of this study was to determine whether borderline-subclinical hypothyroidism (borderline-SCH; 2.5 < TSH ≤ 4.5 IU/mL) affects the outcome of subsequent pregnancies in women with unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss (uRPL). After workup for antinuclear antibody (ANA), anti-phospholipid syndrome, thrombophilia, uterine abnormalities, hormone disorders, and/or chromosomal abnormalities, 317 women with a history of uRPL were enrolled. The women were classified into two groups: borderline-SCH, and euthyroidism (0.3 ≤ TSH ≤ 2.5 IU/mL). All women had normal serum free thyroxine (T4) and did not receive levothyroxine before or during the subsequent pregnancy. There were no significant differences in age, number of previous pregnancy losses, number of live births, or body mass index between the borderline-SCH (n = 56) and the euthyroid (n = 261) groups, but the rate of ANA positivity differed significantly (53.6% vs 33.7%, respectively; P = 0.005). The subsequent pregnancy rate did not differ between the two groups (55.4%, 31/56 vs 51.3%, 134/261, respectively). The pregnancy loss rate (<22 weeks of gestation) tended to be higher in the borderline-SCH than the euthyroid group (29.0%, 9/31 vs 17.9%, 24/134), although not significantly so (P = 0.16). Although some subset of uRPL is though to be due to as-yet-unidentified cause(s), borderline-SCH is unlikely to be involved in uRPL. © 2017 Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

The Prevalence of Antithyroid Autoantibodies in Normal Korean Population*

PubMed Central

Lee, Myung Shik; Lee, Dong Soo; Han, Jin Suk; Cho, Bo Youn; Koh, Chang Soon; Lee, Munho

1986-01-01

The prevalence of antithyroid autoantibodies and the relationship between the presence of autoantibodies and thyroid functions were studied in 848 apparently normal Korean adults with tanned red cell agglutination technique. Results are summarized as follows: 1) The prevalence of antimicrosimal antibody (MCHA) and antithyroglobulin antibody (TGHA) were 4.4% and 1.9% in 458 males, and 12.4% and 5.0% in 390 females, respectively. Both autoantibodies were more prevalent in female (p<0.001, p<0.01). 2) The age-specific prevalence of MCHA was 4.0% in their twenties, 10.1% in their thirties, 12.5% in their forties, 12.0% in their fifties, 8.3% over sixty, and those of TGHA were 2.0% in their twenties, 3.0% in their thirties, 7.0% in their forties, 4.2% in their fifties, 2.5% in subjects over sixty, respectively. Both showed maximal values around forty and fifty and tended to be lower thereafter. 3) Mean T3, T4 and TSH values of high titer group (⩾1:1002) (n=32) were 125 ± 20.6 ng/dl, 9.1 ± 1.7μg/dl and 4.0 ± 1.8 uU/ml, and those of low titer group (<1:1002) (n=44) were 134 ± 24.3 ng/dl, 9.6 ± 1.7 ug/dl and 3.2 ± 1.2 νU/ml. T3 was lower and TSH, higher in high titer group than in low titer group (p<0.05, p<0.05), and no significant difference was observed in T4 level (p<0.1). In conclusion, the prevalence of MCHA and TGHA were higher in apparently normal females than in males with their peaks around forty and fifty, being lower thereafter, and antithyroid autoantibody of high titer (⩾1:1002) was related to alteration of thyroid functions suggesting the existence of “subclinical autoimmune thyroiditis” state. PMID:15759373

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

PubMed

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

2017-09-01

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

Curcumin Increase the Expression of Neural Stem/Progenitor Cells and Improves Functional Recovery after Spinal Cord Injury

PubMed Central

Bang, Woo-Seok; Kim, Kyoung-Tae; Seo, Ye Jin; Cho, Dae-Chul; Sung, Joo-Kyung; Kim, Chi Heon

2018-01-01

Objective To investigates the effect of curcumin on proliferation of spinal cord neural stem/progenitor cells (SC-NSPCs) and functional outcome in a rat spinal cord injury (SCI) model. Methods Sixty adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly and blindly allocated into three groups (sham control group; curcumin treated group after SCI; vehicle treated group after SCI). Functional recovery was evaluated by the Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan (BBB) scale during 6 weeks after SCI. The expression of SC-NSPC proliferation and astrogliosis were analyzed by nestin/Bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) and Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) staining. The injured spinal cord was then examined histologically, including quantification of cavitation. Results The BBB score of the SCI-curcumin group was better than that of SCI-vehicle group up to 14 days (p<0.05). The co-immunoreactivity of nestin/BrdU in the SCI-curcumin group was much higher than that of the SCI-vehicle group 1 week after surgery (p<0.05). The GFAP immunoreactivity of the SCI-curcumin group was remarkably lower than that of the SCI-vehicle group 4 weeks after surgery (p<0.05). The lesion cavity was significantly reduced in the curcumin group as compared to the control group (p<0.05). Conclusion These results indicate that curcumin could increase the expression of SC-NSPCs, and reduce the activity of reactive astrogliosis and lesion cavity. Consequently curcumin could improve the functional recovery after SCI via SC-NSPC properties. PMID:29354231

Report Index for Years 1939-1985

DTIC Science & Technology

1986-03-01

u 6) U u u 0 0 93 f3 m I N 0 - - U CU 2 a 3 - U 0 -J 6W W. W 6 2 W W W a a 61 w w w ’A a 1 A U) 41 V, 4A V) IU L V I 61 - 21 j -1 j .- - U - .j a a...ini ’ . W . 2; .c- 2j a a 2r LI or2- - - -a C 3 0-~~c 40 0: I a 2 n m IW Z =. r L j = 02 - I 31 a 0 4A a. 19 acca W- 0I - / 0 - (. I 0 - - 2~ w 6.1 .1...N~ ~ * A -1 A a a a A ’ aa . w w 61 1- 6, 1. 0 za ~ a3 1, .a wi ; CC 0 9- I a oi 10 ) = 11 W 62 a61 - I U w -4 a W aw acca a a u wi U 0 a

78 FR 17924 - U.S. Strategic Command Strategic Advisory Group; Notice of Federal Advisory Committee Closed Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-03-25

... DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE Office of the Secretary U.S. Strategic Command Strategic Advisory Group... following federal advisory committee: U.S. Strategic Command Strategic Advisory Group. DATES: April 18, 2013..., intelligence, and policy-related issues to the Commander, U.S. Strategic Command, during the development of the...

Hindlimb unloading in rat decreases preosteoblast proliferation assessed in vivo with BrdU incorporation.

PubMed

Barou, O; Palle, S; Vico, L; Alexandre, C; Lafage-Proust, M H

1998-01-01

Immobilization affects bone formation. However, the mechanisms regulating the decrease in osteoblast recruitment remain unclear. The aim of our study was to determine in vivo osteoblastic proliferation after short-term immobilization among the different bone compartments. Twelve Wistar 5-wk-old rats were assigned to two groups: six tail-suspended animals for 6 days and their six age-related controls. Osmotic minipumps, each containing 40 mg of bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU), were implanted intraperitoneally at day 4 until euthanasia. Histomorphometric measurements found a significantly lower bone volume in primary (ISP, -22%) and secondary spongiosa (IISP, -37%) in unloaded rats compared with their age-related controls. BrdU immunohistochemistry showed that the proliferation capacity of osteogenic precursors in ISP (-29%) and preosteoblasts in IISP (-80%) and in periosteum as well as bone marrow cells (-40%) was lowered by unloading. We demonstrated in vivo for the first time that 6-day tail suspension induced a significant decrease in proliferation of periosteal and trabecular preosteoblasts in ISP and IISP as well as in bone marrow cells.

The architecture of the spliceosomal U4/U6.U5 tri-snRNP

PubMed Central

Nguyen, Thi Hoang Duong; Galej, Wojciech P.; Bai, Xiao-chen; Savva, Christos G.; Newman, Andrew J.; Scheres, Sjors H. W.; Nagai, Kiyoshi

2015-01-01

U4/U6.U5 tri-snRNP is a 1.5 MDa pre-assembled spliceosomal complex comprising U5 snRNA, extensively base-paired U4/U6 snRNAs and >30 proteins, including the key components Prp8, Brr2 and Snu114. The tri-snRNP combines with a pre-mRNA substrate bound to U1 and U2 snRNPs and transforms into a catalytically active spliceosome following extensive compositional and conformational changes triggered by unwinding of the U4/U6 snRNAs. CryoEM single-particle reconstruction of yeast tri-snRNP at 5.9Å resolution reveals the essentially complete organization of its RNA and protein components. The single-stranded region of U4 snRNA between its 3′-stem-loop and the U4/U6 snRNA stem I is loaded into the Brr2 helicase active site ready for unwinding. Snu114 and the N-terminal domain of Prp8 position U5 snRNA to insert its Loop I, which aligns the exons for splicing, into the Prp8 active site cavity. The structure provides crucial insights into the activation process and the active site of the spliceosome. PMID:26106855

US patriotism and ideologies of group dominance: a tale of asymmetry.

PubMed

Peña, Yesilernis; Sidanius, Jim

2002-12-01

Using a random sample (N = 405) of White and Latino Americans from Los Angeles County, the authors explored whether there is an asymmetrical relationship between U.S. patriotism and two different dimensions of social dominance orientation: group antiegalitarianism and group dominance. Although there was no evidence of asymmetry in the relationship between U.S. patriotism and group antiegalitarianism, there was evidence of consistent asymmetry in the relationship between U.S. patriotism and group dominance. Among Whites (the dominant North American ethnic group) and depending on demographic variables such as age, education, income, and gender, the greater the respondents' tendency to subordinate "inferior groups," the greater their level of U.S. patriotism. In contrast, among Latino Americans (the major subordinate group in Southern California), the opposite trend was found. Here, higher levels of group dominance orientation were associated with lower levels of U.S. patriotism. The theoretical implications of these findings are discussed.

DFT study on the crystal, electronic and magnetic structures of tantalum based double perovskite oxides Ba2MTaO6 (M = Cr, Mn, Fe) via GGA and GGA + U

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saad, H.-E.; Musa, M.; Elhag, Ahmed

2018-06-01

In this paper, we study the crystal, electronic and magnetic structures of three tantalum based double perovskite oxides Ba2MTaO6 (M = Cr, Mn, Fe). All calculations were performed using the full-potential linear augmented plane-wave (PF-LAPW) method based on the first-principles density functional theory (DFT). For the exchange correlation potential, the generalized gradient approximation (GGA) and GGA plus on-site Coulomb parameter (GGA + U) were employed. The structural optimization reveals that the three compounds are stable in cubic structure (space group Fm-3m; tilt system a0a0a0). The band structure, density of states (DOS), charge density and spin magnetic moments were calculated and analyzed in details. By analysis the band structure and DOS, Ba2MTaO6 exhibits an insulating behavior (M = Cr, Fe) and a half-metallic (HM) nature (M = Mn). GGA + U method yields quite accurate results for the band-gap (Eg) as compared with GGA. We found that all three compounds have stable ferromagnetic (FM) ground state within GGA and GGA + U calculations. The M3+ (3d) ions contribute the majority in the total spin magnetic-moments, while, the empty T5+ (5d) ions carry very small induced magnetic moment via the M (3d)-O (2p)-Ta (5d) hybridization.

Point-of-Care Ultrasound for Jugular Venous Pressure Assessment: Live and Online Learning Compared.

PubMed

Socransky, Steve; Lang, Eddy; Bryce, Rhonda; Betz, Martin

2017-06-08

Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is a novel technique for the assessment of jugular venous pressure. Distance education may allow for efficient dissemination of this technique. We compared online learning to a live course for teaching ultrasonography jugular venous pressure (u-JVP) to determine if these teaching methods yielded different levels of comfort with and use of u-JVP. This was an interventional trial of Canadian emergency physicians who had taken a basic POCUS course. The participants were in one of three Groups: online learning (Group OL), live teaching (Group LT), control (Group C). Group LT participants also took an advanced course prior to the study that included instruction in u-JVP. The participants who took the basic course were randomized to Group OL or Group C. Group OL was subject to the intervention, online learning. Group C only received an article citation regarding u-JVP. Questionnaires were completed before and after the intervention. The primary outcome was physician self-reported use and comfort with the technique of u-JVP after online learning compared to live teaching. Of the 287 advanced course participants, 42 completed the questionnaires (Group LT). Of the 3303 basic course participants, 47 who were assigned to Group OL completed the questionnaires and 47 from Group C completed the questionnaires. Use of u-JVP increased significantly in Group OL (from 15% to 55%) and Group C (from 21% to 47%) with the intervention. The comfort with use did not differ between Group LT and Group OL (p=0.14). The frequency of use remained higher in Group LT than Group OL (p=0.07). Online learning increases the use and comfort with performing u-JVP for emergency physicians with prior POCUS experience. Although the comfort with use of u-JVP was similar in Groups LT and OL, online learning appears to yield levels of use that are less than those of a live course.

Primary prevention of lead exposure--blood lead results at age two years.

PubMed

Campbell, Carla; Gracely, Edward; Tran, Mary; Starkey, Naomi; Kersten, Hans; Palermo, Peter; Rothman, Nancy; Line, Laura; Hansen-Turton, Tine

2012-04-01

The Philadelphia Lead Safe Homes (LSH) Study was designed to evaluate whether educational and environmental interventions in the first year of life for families of newborns increased knowledge of lead exposure prevention and were associated with less elevation of blood lead levels (BLLs) for these children, when compared to children receiving standard care. The current study performed descriptive statistics on the second-year BLL data for both groups and compared these using chi-square tests for proportions and unpaired t-tests for means. A BLL result was found for 159 (50.6%) of the 314 LSH cohort children and 331 (52.7%) of the 628 control children (p = 0.1). Mean and standard deviation for age at draw was 23.8 (3.4) months versus 23.6 (3.1) months (P = 0.6). Geometric mean BLLs were 3.7 versus 3.5 µg/dL (P = 0.4). The percentages of the cohort group with a BLL of ≥ 20, ≥ 10 and ≥ 5 μg/dL, respectively, were 0.6%, 5% and 30%; for the controls 1.2%, 6.6%, and 25%. These percentages were not significantly different between groups. A comparison of geometric mean BLLs and percentages above several BLL cut points drawn at age two years in a group of urban newborns benefitting from study interventions versus a group of similar urban children did not yield statistically significant differences. Both groups had relatively lower lead levels when compared to historical cohort groups, which may reflect a continuing downward trend in BLLs in U.S. children. The interventions did result in benefits to the families such as an increase in parental knowledge about lead exposure prevention and in-home wet cleaning activity, and a decrease in lead dust levels in study homes.

[Clinical observation of basic fibroblast growth factor combined with topical oxygen therapy in enhancing burn wound healing].

PubMed

Nie, Kaiyu; Li, Pengcheng; Zeng, Xueqin; Sun, Guangfeng; Jin, Wenhu; Wei, Zairong; Wang, Bo; Qi, Jianping; Wang, Yuming; Wang, Dali

2010-06-01

To investigate the efficacy of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) combined with topical oxygen therapy for deep II degree burn wounds, by comparing the effects of bFGF combined with topical oxygen therapy and bFGF with routine therapy. From February 2004 to July 2009, 85 patients with deep II degree burn wounds (117 wounds) were enrolled and divided into 4 groups randomly according to different treatments. There was no significant difference in sex, age, disease course, wound size, and wound treatment size among 4 groups (P > 0.05). In group A, 18 patients (28 wounds) were treated routinely; in group B, 23 patients (30 wounds) were treated with routine methods and topical oxygen therapy; in group C, 19 patients (25 wounds) were treated with routine methods and bFGF therapy; and in group D, 25 patients (34 wounds) were treated with routine methods and bFGF/topical oxygen therapy. Topical oxygen therapy was administered to the wound for 90 minutes per day for 3 weeks. The bFGF therapy was applied everyday (150 U/cm2) for 3 weeks. All cases were followed up 6-12 months (9 months on average). The wound healing times in groups A, B, C, and D were (27.3 +/- 6.6), (24.2 +/- 5.8), (22.2 +/- 6.8), and (18.2 +/- 4.8) days, respectively; showing significant difference between group A and group D (P < 0.05). The wound healing rates in groups A, B, C, and D were 67.8% +/- 12.1%, 85.1% +/- 7.5%, 89.2% +/- 8.3%, and 96.1% +/- 5.6%, respectively; showing significant differences between group A and groups B, C, D (P < 0.05). The therapic effective rates in groups A, B, C, and D were 75%, 90%, 92%, and 100%, respectively; showing significant difference between group A and group D (P < 0.05). The Vancouver scar scale scoring of group D 6 months after treatment was better than that of group A (P < 0.05). The bFGF combined with topical oxygen therapy can enhance deep II degree burn wound healing. Furthermore, the therapy method is simple and convenient.

Effect of Anatomical Customization of the Fiber Post on the Bond Strength of a Self-Adhesive Resin Cement.

PubMed

Rocha, Adricyla Teixeira; Gonçalves, Leticia Machado; Vasconcelos, Ana Júlia de Carvalho; Matos Maia Filho, Etevaldo; Nunes Carvalho, Ceci; De Jesus Tavarez, Rudys Rodolfo

2017-01-01

The aim of the study was to evaluate, by means of the push-out test, the effect of the anatomical customization of the fiber post on the bond strength of a self-adhesive resin cement. Twelve endodontically treated, human, upper central incisors were randomly divided into two groups ( n = 6): control (glass fiber posts cemented with Relyx® U200) and customized (glass fiber posts anatomically customized with translucent composite resin cemented with Relyx U200). The roots were sectioned into three slices, cervical, middle, and apical, and photographed with a digital camera attached to a stereomicroscopic loupe. The images were analyzed by software, for evaluation of the cement line. The slices were subsequently submitted to the push-out test until the post had completely extruded, and the fracture mode was analyzed with a stereomicroscopic loupe. The results showed significant differences between the groups in the different root thirds in relation to the area occupied by air bubbles ( p < 0.05). Bond strength, when all the thirds are considered, was 8.77 ± 4.89 MPa for the control group and 16.96 ± 4.85 MPa for the customized group. The customized group showed greater bond resistance than the control group and a more uniform cement layer.

Structural, microstructural and thermal analysis of U-(6-x)Zr-xNb alloys (x = 0, 2, 4, 6)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kaity, Santu; Banerjee, Joydipta; Parida, S. C.; Bhasin, Vivek

2018-06-01

Uranium-rich U-Zr-Nb alloy is considered as a good alternative fuel for fast reactors from the perspective of excellent dimensional stability and desired thermo-physical properties to achieve higher burnup. Detailed investigations related to the structural and microstructural characterization, thermal expansion, phase transformation, microhardness were carried out on U-6Zr, U-4Zr-2Nb, U-2Zr-4Nb and U-6Nb alloys (composition in wt%) where the total amount of alloying elements was restricted to 6 wt%. Structural, microstructural and thermal analysis studies revealed that these alloys undergo a series of transformations from high temperature bcc γ-phase to a variety of equilibrium and intermediate phases depending upon alloy composition, cooling rate and quenching. The structural analysis was carried out by Rietveld refinement. The data of U-Nb and U-Zr-Nb alloys have been highlighted and compared with binary U-Zr alloy.

Irradiation testing of high density uranium alloy dispersion fuels

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

Hayes, S.L.; Trybus, C.L.; Meyer, M.K.

1997-10-01

Two irradiation test vehicles have been designed, fabricated, and inserted into the Advanced Test Reactor in Idaho. Irradiation of these experiments began in August 1997. These irradiation tests were designed to obtain irradiation performance information on a variety of potential new, high-density dispersion fuels. Each of the two irradiation vehicles contains 32 microplates. Each microplate is aluminum clad, having an aluminum matrix phase and containing one of the following compositions as the fuel phase: U-10Mo, U-8Mo, U-6Mo, U-4Mo, U-9Nb-3Zr, U-6Nb-4Zr, U-5Nb-3Zr, U-6Mo-1Pt, U-6Mo-0.6Ru, U-10Mo-0.05Sn, U{sub 2}Mo, or U{sub 3}Si{sub 2}. These experiments will be discharged at peak fuel burnups ofmore » 40% and 80%. Of particular interest is the fission gas retention/swelling characteristics of these new fuel alloys. This paper presents the design of the irradiation vehicles and the irradiation conditions.« less

Role of afferent input and mechanical load for size regulation of rat soleus muscle

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kawano, Fuminori; Matsuka, Yoshikazu; Oke, Yoshihiko; Higo, Yoko; Terada, Masahiro; Umemoto, Shiori; Kawabe, Naoko; Wang, Xiao Dong; Shinoda, Yo; Lan, Yong Bo; Fukuda, Hiroyuki; Ohmi, Shinobu; Ohira, Yoshinobu

2005-08-01

Effects of deafferentation on the phosphorylation of ribosomal protein S6 (S6), 27 kDa heat shock protein (HSP27) and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2 were studied in rat soleus muscle. Adult male Wistar rats were randomly separated into the pre- and post- experimental control, functionally overloaded (FO), sham-operated, deafferentated (DA), FO+DA, and hindlimb-unloaded (U) groups. The distal tendons of left plantaris and gastrocnemius muscles were transected in the FO rats. The left dorsal roots of the spinal cord at the L4-5 segmental levels were transected in the DA rats. The rats in U were tail-suspended. The sampling of the soleus muscle was performed 2 weeks after the treatments shown above. The cytoplasmic fraction of the soleus muscle homogenate was used for the quantitative analyses of the phosphorylation levels of S6, HSP27, and ERK 1/2. The phosphorylation levels of these proteins were up-regulated by FO. On the contrary, the phosphorylation of all of these proteins was down-regulated by U and DA. Further, the FO-related increase of the protein phosphorylation was inhibited by additional treatment with DA. These results indicated that the afferent feedback plays crucial roles in the intramuscular regulation of the soleus muscle mass.