Methods for making a porous nuclear fuel element

DOEpatents

Youchison, Dennis L; Williams, Brian E; Benander, Robert E

2014-12-30

Porous nuclear fuel elements for use in advanced high temperature gas-cooled nuclear reactors (HTGR's), and to processes for fabricating them. Advanced uranium bi-carbide, uranium tri-carbide and uranium carbonitride nuclear fuels can be used. These fuels have high melting temperatures, high thermal conductivity, and high resistance to erosion by hot hydrogen gas. Tri-carbide fuels, such as (U,Zr,Nb)C, can be fabricated using chemical vapor infiltration (CVI) to simultaneously deposit each of the three separate carbides, e.g., UC, ZrC, and NbC in a single CVI step. By using CVI, the nuclear fuel may be deposited inside of a highly porous skeletal structure made of, for example, reticulated vitreous carbon foam.

An Analysis of Warfighter Sleep, Fatigue, and Performance on the USS Nimitz

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-09-01

35 1. Chernobyl Reactor 4 .............................................................. 36 2...deprivation and fatigue can be disastrous, as demonstrated by the accidents at Chernobyl Reactor 4, Three Mile Island Unit 2, Bhopal Union Carbide, and the...deprivation and fatigue can be disastrous, as demonstrated by the accidents at Chernobyl Reactor 4, Three Mile Island Unit 2, Bhopal Union Carbide, and

Cryochemical and CVD processing of shperical carbide fuels for propulsion reactors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Blair, H. Thomas; Carroll, David W.; Matthews, R. Bruce

1991-01-01

Many of the nuclear propulsion reactor concepts proposed for a manned mission to Mars use a coated spherical particle fuel form similar to that used in the Rover and NERVA propulsion reactors. The formation of uranium dicarbide microspheres using a cryochemical process and the coating of the UC2 spheres with zirconium carbide using chemical vapor deposition are being developed at Los Alamos National Laboratory. The cryochemical process is described with a discussion of the variables affecting the sphere formation and carbothermic reduction to produce UC2 spheres from UO2. Emphasis is placed on minimizing the wastes produced by the process. The ability to coat particles with ZrC was recaptured, and improvements in the process and equipment were developed. Volatile organometallic precursors were investigated as alternatives to the original ZrCl4 precursor.

Thermodynamic and experimental study of UC powders ignition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Le Guyadec, F.; Rado, C.; Joffre, S.; Coullomb, S.; Chatillon, C.; Blanquet, E.

2009-09-01

Mixed plutonium and uranium carbide (UPuC) is considered as a possible fuel material for future nuclear reactors. However, UPuC is pyrophoric and fine powders of UPuC are subject to temperature increase due to oxidation with air and possible ignition during conditioning and handling. In a first approach and to allow easier experimental conditions, this study was undertaken on uranium monocarbide (UC) with the aim to determine safe handling conditions for the production and reprocessing of uranium carbide fuels. The reactivity of uranium monocarbide in oxidizing atmosphere was studied in order to analyze the ignition process. Experimental thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential thermal analysis (DTA) revealed that UC powder obtained by arc melting and milling is highly reactive in air at about 200 °C. The phases formed at the various observed stages of the oxidation process were analyzed by X-ray diffraction. At the same time, ignition was analyzed thermodynamically along isothermal sections of the U-C-O ternary diagram and the pressure of the gas produced by the UC + O 2 reaction was calculated. Two possible oxidation schemes were identified on the U-C-O phase diagram and assumptions are proposed concerning the overall oxidation and ignition paths. It is particularly important to understand the mechanisms involved since temperatures as high as 2500 °C could be reached, leading to CO(g) production and possibly to a blast effect.

Union Carbide's PECOP cops $500,000 fuel cut

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

Crawford, E.

1979-10-29

Union Carbide's Plant Energy Cost Optimization Program (POCOP) is saving $500,000 a year at a Taft, Louisiana chemical complex. Day-to-day decisions affecting fuel costs and plant operations are based on a system of computerized data-gathering and processing. Although Carbide's system is not unique, it is more extensive and more comprehensive than the systems used by other chemical companies. The plant has decreased its energy consumption 12% below the 1972 level while increasing production by 30%. The system was initiated in response to the shift from raw materials to energy as the major production cost.

Methods for manufacturing porous nuclear fuel elements for high-temperature gas-cooled nuclear reactors

DOEpatents

Youchison, Dennis L [Albuquerque, NM; Williams, Brian E [Pocoima, CA; Benander, Robert E [Pacoima, CA

2010-02-23

Methods for manufacturing porous nuclear fuel elements for use in advanced high temperature gas-cooled nuclear reactors (HTGR's). Advanced uranium bi-carbide, uranium tri-carbide and uranium carbonitride nuclear fuels can be used. These fuels have high melting temperatures, high thermal conductivity, and high resistance to erosion by hot hydrogen gas. Tri-carbide fuels, such as (U,Zr,Nb)C, can be fabricated using chemical vapor infiltration (CVI) to simultaneously deposit each of the three separate carbides, e.g., UC, ZrC, and NbC in a single CVI step. By using CVI, a thin coating of nuclear fuel may be deposited inside of a highly porous skeletal structure made, for example, of reticulated vitreous carbon foam.

Porous nuclear fuel element for high-temperature gas-cooled nuclear reactors

DOEpatents

Youchison, Dennis L [Albuquerque, NM; Williams, Brian E [Pacoima, CA; Benander, Robert E [Pacoima, CA

2011-03-01

Porous nuclear fuel elements for use in advanced high temperature gas-cooled nuclear reactors (HTGR's), and to processes for fabricating them. Advanced uranium bi-carbide, uranium tri-carbide and uranium carbonitride nuclear fuels can be used. These fuels have high melting temperatures, high thermal conductivity, and high resistance to erosion by hot hydrogen gas. Tri-carbide fuels, such as (U,Zr,Nb)C, can be fabricated using chemical vapor infiltration (CVI) to simultaneously deposit each of the three separate carbides, e.g., UC, ZrC, and NbC in a single CVI step. By using CVI, the nuclear fuel may be deposited inside of a highly porous skeletal structure made of, for example, reticulated vitreous carbon foam.

Porous nuclear fuel element with internal skeleton for high-temperature gas-cooled nuclear reactors

DOEpatents

Youchison, Dennis L.; Williams, Brian E.; Benander, Robert E.

2013-09-03

Porous nuclear fuel elements for use in advanced high temperature gas-cooled nuclear reactors (HTGR's), and to processes for fabricating them. Advanced uranium bi-carbide, uranium tri-carbide and uranium carbonitride nuclear fuels can be used. These fuels have high melting temperatures, high thermal conductivity, and high resistance to erosion by hot hydrogen gas. Tri-carbide fuels, such as (U,Zr,Nb)C, can be fabricated using chemical vapor infiltration (CVI) to simultaneously deposit each of the three separate carbides, e.g., UC, ZrC, and NbC in a single CVI step. By using CVI, the nuclear fuel may be deposited inside of a highly porous skeletal structure made of, for example, reticulated vitreous carbon foam.

METHOD OF MAKING SPHERICAL ACTINIDE CARBIDE

DOEpatents

White, G.D.; O'Rourke, D.C.

1962-12-25

This patent describes a method of making uniform, spherical, nonpyrophoric UC. UO/sub 2/ and carbon are mixed in stoichiometric proportions and passed through a plasma flame of inert gas at 10,000 to 13,000 deg C. (AEC)

Electron beam plasma ionizing target for the production of neutron-rich nuclides

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Panteleev, V. N.; Barzakh, A. E.; Essabaa, S.; Fedorov, D. V.; Ionan, A. M.; Ivanov, V. S.; Lau, C.; Leroy, R.; Lhersonneau, G.; Mezilev, K. A.; Molkanov, P. L.; Moroz, F. V.; Orlov, S. Yu.; Stroe, L.; Tecchio, L. B.; Villari, A. C. C.; Volkov, Yu. M.

2008-10-01

The production of neutron-rich Ag, In and Sn isotopes from a uranium carbide target of a high density has been investigated at the IRIS facility in the PLOG (PNPI-Legnaro-GANIL-Orsay) collaboration. The UC target material with a density of 12 g/cm3 was prepared by the method of powder metallurgy in a form of pellets of 2 mm thickness, 11 mm in diameter and grain dimensions of about 20 μm. The uranium target mass of 31 g was exposed at a 1 GeV proton beam of intensity 0.05-0.07 μA. For the ionization of the produced species the electron beam-plasma ionization inside the target container (ionizing target) has been used. It was the first experiment when the new high density UC target material was exploited with the electron-plasma ionization. Yields of Sn isotopes have been measured in the target temperature range of (1900-2100) °C. The yields of some Pd, In and Cd isotopes were measured as well to compare to previously measured ones from a high density uranium carbide target having a ceramic-like structure. For the first time a nickel isotope was obtained from a high density UC target.

Evaluation of Non-Oxide Fuel for Fission-based Nuclear Reactors on Spacecraft

DTIC Science & Technology

smaller and potentially lighter core, whichis a significant advantage. The results of this study indicate that use of both UC and UN may result in significant weight savings due tohigher uranium loading density....The goal of this project was to study the performance of atypical uranium-based fuels in a nuclear reactor capable of producing 1 megawattof thermal...UN), or uranium carbide (UC) and compared their performance to uranium oxide (UO2) which is thefuel form used in the vast majority of commercial

Theoretical Model for Volume Fraction of UC, 235U Enrichment, and Effective Density of Final U 10Mo Alloy

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

Devaraj, Arun; Prabhakaran, Ramprashad; Joshi, Vineet V.

2016-04-12

The purpose of this document is to provide a theoretical framework for (1) estimating uranium carbide (UC) volume fraction in a final alloy of uranium with 10 weight percent molybdenum (U-10Mo) as a function of final alloy carbon concentration, and (2) estimating effective 235U enrichment in the U-10Mo matrix after accounting for loss of 235U in forming UC. This report will also serve as a theoretical baseline for effective density of as-cast low-enriched U-10Mo alloy. Therefore, this report will serve as the baseline for quality control of final alloy carbon content

A Systematic Theoretical Study of UC6: Structure, Bonding Nature, and Spectroscopy.

PubMed

Du, Jiguang; Jiang, Gang

2017-11-20

The study of uranium carbides has received renewed attention in recent years due to the potential use of these compounds as fuels in new generations of nuclear reactors. The isomers of the UC 6 cluster were determined by DFT and ab initio methods. The structures obtained using SC-RECP for U were generally consistent with those obtained using an all-electron basis set (ZORA-SARC). The CCSD(T) calculations indicated that two isomers had similar energies and may coexist in laser evaporation experiments. The nature of the U-C bonds in the different isomers was examined via a topological analysis of the electron density, and the results indicated that the U-C bonds are predominantly closed-shell (ionic) interactions with a certain degree of covalent character in all cases, particularly in the linear species. The IR and UV-vis spectra of the isomers were theoretically simulated to provide information that can be used to identify the isomers of UC 6 in future experiments.

Experimental study of UC polycrystals in the prospect of improving the as-fabricated sample purity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raveu, Gaëlle; Martin, Guillaume; Fiquet, Olivier; Garcia, Philippe; Carlot, Gaëlle; Palancher, Hervé; Bonnin, Anne; Khodja, Hicham; Raepsaet, Caroline; Sauvage, Thierry; Barthe, Marie-France

2014-12-01

Uranium and plutonium carbides are candidate fuels for Generation IV nuclear reactors. This study is focused on the characterization of uranium monocarbide samples. The successive fabrication steps were carried out under atmospheres containing low oxygen and moisture concentrations (typically less than 100 ppm) but sample transfers occurred in air. Six samples were sliced from four pellets elaborated by carbothermic reaction under vacuum. Little presence of UC2 is expected in these samples. The α-UC2 phase was indeed detected within one of these UC samples during an XRD experiment performed with synchrotron radiation. Moreover, oxygen content at the surface of these samples was depth profiled using a recently developed nuclear reaction analysis method. Large oxygen concentrations were measured in the first micron below the sample surface and particularly in the first 100-150 nm. UC2 inclusions were found to be more oxidized than the surrounding matrix. This work points out to the fact that more care must be given at each step of UC fabrication since the material readily reacts with oxygen and moisture. A new glovebox facility using a highly purified atmosphere is currently being built in order to obtain single phase UC samples of better purity.

Hoechst readies US capacity

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

Coeyman, M.

1995-02-08

Hoechst Celanese`s (Somerville, NJ) 150 million lbs/year alcohol ethoxylates plant at Clear lake, TX is in start-up and has begun trial production. The company says it plans to begin shipping product to customers by the end of the first quarter. The plant replaces production facilities previously leased from Union Carbide at Texas City. Meanwhile, Union Carbide has completed the purchase of certain ICI ethylene oxide (EO) derivatives businesses, including ethylene glycol, glycol ethers and acetates, ethanomalamines, and brake fluids. ICI will retain the ethoxylates business. Carbide and ICI will jointly fund an expansion of an EO unit and Wilton, U.K.more » from 240,000 m.t./year to 300,000 m.t./year.« less

Morphological and functional effects of graphene on the synthesis of uranium carbide for isotopes production targets.

PubMed

Biasetto, L; Corradetti, S; Carturan, S; Eloirdi, R; Amador-Celdran, P; Staicu, D; Blanco, O Dieste; Andrighetto, A

2018-05-29

The development of tailored targets for the production of radioactive isotopes represents an active field in nuclear research. Radioactive beams find applications in nuclear medicine, in astrophysics, matter physics and materials science. In this work, we study the use of graphene both as carbon source for UO 2 carbothermal reduction to produce UC x targets, and also as functional properties booster. At fixed composition, the UC x target grain size, porosity and thermal conductivity represent the three main points that affect the target production efficiency. UC x was synthesized using both graphite and graphene as the source of carbon and the target properties in terms of composition, grain size, porosity, thermal diffusivity and thermal conductivity were studied. The main output of this work is related to the remarkable enhancement achieved in thermal conductivity, which can profitably improve thermal dissipation during operational stages of UC x targets.

Determining the minimum required uranium carbide content for HTGR UCO fuel kernels

DOE PAGES

McMurray, Jacob W.; Lindemer, Terrence B.; Brown, Nicholas R.; ...

2017-03-10

There are three important failure mechanisms that must be controlled in high-temperature gas-cooled reactor (HTGR) fuel for certain higher burnup applications are SiC layer rupture, SiC corrosion by CO, and coating compromise from kernel migration. All are related to high CO pressures stemming from free O generated when uranium present as UO 2 fissions and the O is not subsequently bound by other elements. Furthermore, in the HTGR UCO kernel design, CO buildup from excess O is controlled by the inclusion of additional uranium in the form of a carbide, UC x. An approach for determining the minimum UC xmore » content to ensure negligible CO formation was developed and demonstrated using CALPHAD models and the Serpent 2 reactor physics and depletion analysis tool. Our results are intended to be more accurate than previous estimates by including more nuclear and chemical factors, in particular the effect of transmutation products on the oxygen distribution as the fuel kernel composition evolves with burnup.« less

Out-of-pile creep behavior of uranium carbide

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wright, T. R.; Seltzer, M. S.

1974-01-01

Compression creep tests were investigated on various UC-based fuel materials having a variation in both density and composition. Specimens were prepared by casting and by hot pressing. Steady-state creep rates were measured under vacuum at 1400 to 1800 C in the stress range 500-4000 psi.

Coupling XRD, EXAFS, and 13C NMR to study the effect of the carbon stoichiometry on the local structure of UC(1±x).

PubMed

Carvajal Nuñez, U; Martel, L; Prieur, D; Lopez Honorato, E; Eloirdi, R; Farnan, I; Vitova, T; Somers, J

2013-10-07

A series of uranium carbide samples, prepared by arc melting with a C/U ratio ranging from 0.96 to 1.04, has been studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD), (13)C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS). XRD determines phase uniqueness and the increase of the lattice parameter versus the carbon content. In contrast, (13)C NMR detects the different carbon environments in the lattice and in this study, clearly identifies the presence of discrete peaks for carbon in the octahedral lattice site in UC and an additional peak associated with excess carbon in hyperstoichiometric samples. Two peaks associated with different levels of carbon deficiency are detected for all hypostoichiometric compositions. More than one carbon environment is always detected by (13)C NMR. This exemplifies the difficulty in obtaining a perfect stoichiometric uranium monocarbide UC(1.00). The (13)C MAS spectra of uranium carbides exhibit the effects resulting from the carbon content on both the broadening of the peaks and on the Knight shift. An abrupt spectral change occurs between hypo- and hyperstoichiometric samples. The results obtained by EXAFS highlight subtle differences between the different stoichiometries, and in the hyperstoichiometric samples, the EXAFS results are consistent with the excess carbon atoms being in the tetrahedral interstitial position.

Analysis and Development of A Robust Fuel for Gas-Cooled Fast Reactors

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

Knight, Travis W.

2010-01-31

The focus of this effort was on the development of an advanced fuel for gas-cooled fast reactor (GFR) applications. This composite design is based on carbide fuel kernels dispersed in a ZrC matrix. The choice of ZrC is based on its high temperature properties and good thermal conductivity and improved retention of fission products to temperatures beyond that of traditional SiC based coated particle fuels. A key component of this study was the development and understanding of advanced fabrication techniques for GFR fuels that have potential to reduce minor actinide (MA) losses during fabrication owing to their higher vapor pressuresmore » and greater volatility. The major accomplishments of this work were the study of combustion synthesis methods for fabrication of the ZrC matrix, fabrication of high density UC electrodes for use in the rotating electrode process, production of UC particles by rotating electrode method, integration of UC kernels in the ZrC matrix, and the full characterization of each component. Major accomplishments in the near-term have been the greater characterization of the UC kernels produced by the rotating electrode method and their condition following the integration in the composite (ZrC matrix) following the short time but high temperature combustion synthesis process. This work has generated four journal publications, one conference proceeding paper, and one additional journal paper submitted for publication (under review). The greater significance of the work can be understood in that it achieved an objective of the DOE Generation IV (GenIV) roadmap for GFR Fuel—namely the demonstration of a composite carbide fuel with 30% volume fuel. This near-term accomplishment is even more significant given the expected or possible time frame for implementation of the GFR in the years 2030 -2050 or beyond.« less

The effect of thermomechanical processing on second phase particle redistribution in U-10 wt%Mo

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Xiaohua; Wang, Xiaowo; Joshi, Vineet V.; Lavender, Curt A.

2018-03-01

The multi-pass hot-rolling process of an annealed uranium-10 wt% molybdenum (U10Mo) coupon was studied by plane-strain compression finite element modeling. As-cast U10Mo typically contains second phase particles such as uranium carbides (UC) and silicides along the grain boundaries. The volume fraction of UC is typically large, while the other phases can be redissolved in the matrix by certain heat treatments. The UC particle distribution is important due to its influence on the recrystallization processes (particle stimulated nucleation) that occur during annealing between rolling passes. Unfavorable particle distribution and fracture after rolling can affect the grain size and also influence the fuel performance in the reactor. A statistical method, i.e., the two-point correlation function (2PCF), was used to analyze the carbide particle distribution after each rolling reduction. The hot rolling simulation results show that the alignment of UC particles along grain boundaries will rotate during rolling until it is parallel to the rolling direction, to form stringer-like distributions which are typically observed in rolled products that contain inclusions. 2PCF analysis shows that the interparticle spacing shrinks along the normal direction (ND) and increases along the rolling direction (RD). The simulated particle distribution is very similar to that measured experimentally for similar rolling reductions. The magnitudes of major peaks of 2PCF along the ND decrease after large reduction. The locations of major peaks indicate the inter-stringer distances. Many more small peaks appear for the 2PCF along the RD, and this is related to the neighboring particles within stringers, which are along the RD.

Mars Mission Analysis Trades Based on Legacy and Future Nuclear Propulsion Options

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Joyner, Russell; Lentati, Andrea; Cichon, Jaclyn

2007-01-01

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the results of mission-based system trades when using a nuclear thermal propulsion (NTP) system for Solar System exploration. The results are based on comparing reactor designs that use a ceramic-metallic (CERMET), graphite matrix, graphite composite matrix, or carbide matrix fuel element designs. The composite graphite matrix and CERMET designs have been examined for providing power as well as propulsion. Approaches to the design of the NTP to be discussed will include an examination of graphite, composite, carbide, and CERMET core designs and the attributes of each in regards to performance and power generation capability. The focus is on NTP approaches based on tested fuel materials within a prismatic fuel form per the Argonne National Laboratory testing and the ROVER/NERVA program. NTP concepts have been examined for several years at Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne for use as the primary propulsion for human missions beyond earth. Recently, an approach was taken to examine the design trades between specific NTP concepts; NERVA-based (UC)C-Graphite, (UC,ZrC)C-Composite, (U,Zr)C-Solid Carbide and UO2-W CERMET. Using Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne's multidisciplinary design analysis capability, a detailed mission and vehicle model has been used to examine how several of these NTP designs impact a human Mars mission. Trends for the propulsion system mass as a function of power level (i.e. thrust size) for the graphite-carbide and CERMET designs were established and correlated against data created over the past forty years. These were used for the mission trade study. The resulting mission trades presented in this paper used a comprehensive modeling approach that captures the mission, vehicle subsystems, and NTP sizing.

Carbothermic Synthesis of ~820- m UN Kernels. Investigation of Process Variables

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

Lindemer, Terrence; Silva, Chinthaka M; Henry, Jr, John James

2015-06-01

This report details the continued investigation of process variables involved in converting sol-gel-derived, urainia-carbon microspheres to ~820-μm-dia. UN fuel kernels in flow-through, vertical refractory-metal crucibles at temperatures up to 2123 K. Experiments included calcining of air-dried UO 3-H 2O-C microspheres in Ar and H 2-containing gases, conversion of the resulting UO 2-C kernels to dense UO 2:2UC in the same gases and vacuum, and its conversion in N 2 to in UC 1-xN x. The thermodynamics of the relevant reactions were applied extensively to interpret and control the process variables. Producing the precursor UO 2:2UC kernel of ~96% theoretical densitymore » was required, but its subsequent conversion to UC 1-xN x at 2123 K was not accompanied by sintering and resulted in ~83-86% of theoretical density. Decreasing the UC 1-xN x kernel carbide component via HCN evolution was shown to be quantitatively consistent with present and past experiments and the only useful application of H2 in the entire process.« less

Thermal radiative and thermodynamic properties of solid and liquid uranium and plutonium carbides in the visible-near-infrared range

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fisenko, Anatoliy I.; Lemberg, Vladimir F.

2016-09-01

The knowledge of thermal radiative and thermodynamic properties of uranium and plutonium carbides under extreme conditions is essential for designing a new metallic fuel materials for next generation of a nuclear reactor. The present work is devoted to the study of the thermal radiative and thermodynamic properties of liquid and solid uranium and plutonium carbides at their melting/freezing temperatures. The Stefan-Boltzmann law, total energy density, number density of photons, Helmholtz free energy density, internal energy density, enthalpy density, entropy density, heat capacity at constant volume, pressure, and normal total emissivity are calculated using experimental data for the frequency dependence of the normal spectral emissivity of liquid and solid uranium and plutonium carbides in the visible-near infrared range. It is shown that the thermal radiative and thermodynamic functions of uranium carbide have a slight difference during liquid-to-solid transition. Unlike UC, such a difference between these functions have not been established for plutonium carbide. The calculated values for the normal total emissivity of uranium and plutonium carbides at their melting temperatures is in good agreement with experimental data. The obtained results allow to calculate the thermal radiative and thermodynamic properties of liquid and solid uranium and plutonium carbides for any size of samples. Based on the model of Hagen-Rubens and the Wiedemann-Franz law, a new method to determine the thermal conductivity of metals and carbides at the melting points is proposed.

Formation of uranium and cerium nitrides by the reaction of carbides with NH 3 and N 2/H 2 stream

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nakagawa, Takashi; Matsuoka, Hirotaka; Sawa, Masaji; Hirota, Masayuki; Miyake, Masanobu; Katsura, Masahiro

1997-08-01

UC or CeC 2 were converted into U 2N 3 or CeN by the use of NH 3 or an N 2/H 2 gas mixture. A stream of NH 3 works not only as a nitriding agent but also as a carbon clearing agent due to its high nitriding and hydriding activities. When the carbide is converted into nitride, carbon is liberated. Some experiments were performed in order to examine the role of the carbon activity of carbon materials (amorphous carbon or graphite) in the formation of CH 4.

Temperature dependence of yields from multi-foil SPES target

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Corradetti, S.; Biasetto, L.; Manzolaro, M.; Scarpa, D.; Andrighetto, A.; Carturan, S.; Prete, G.; Zanonato, P.; Stracener, D. W.

2011-10-01

The temperature dependence of neutron-rich isotope yields was studied within the framework of the HRIBF-SPES Radioactive Ion Beams (RIB) project. On-line release measurements of fission fragments from a uranium carbide target at ensuremath 1600 {}^{circ}C , ensuremath 1800 {}^{circ}C and ensuremath 2000 {}^{circ}C were performed at ORNL (USA). The fission reactions were induced by a 40MeV proton beam accelerated into a uranium carbide target coupled to a plasma ion source. The experiments allowed for tests of performance of the SPES multi-foil target prototype loaded with seven UC2/graphite discs (ratio C/ U = 4 with density about 4g/cm3.

Low Cost Solar Array Project. Feasibility of the silane process for producing semiconductor-grade silicon. Final report, October 1975-March 1979

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

Not Available

1979-06-01

The commercial production of low-cost semiconductor-grade silicon is an essential requirement of the JPL/DOE (Department of Energy) Low-Cost Solar Array (LSA) Project. A 1000-metric-ton-per-year commercial facility using the Union Carbide Silane Process will produce molten silicon for an estimated price of $7.56/kg (1975 dollars, private financing), meeting the DOE goal of less than $10/kg. Conclusions and technology status are reported for both contract phases, which had the following objectives: (1) establish the feasibility of Union Carbide's Silane Process for commercial application, and (2) develop an integrated process design for an Experimental Process System Development Unit (EPSDU) and a commercial facility,more » and estimate the corresponding commercial plant economic performance. To assemble the facility design, the following work was performed: (a) collection of Union Carbide's applicable background technology; (b) design, assembly, and operation of a small integrated silane-producing Process Development Unit (PDU); (c) analysis, testing, and comparison of two high-temperature methods for converting pure silane to silicon metal; and (d) determination of chemical reaction equilibria and kinetics, and vapor-liquid equilibria for chlorosilanes.« less

Fuels from Recycling Systems

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tillman, David A.

1975-01-01

Three systems, operating at sufficient scale, produce fuels that may be alternatives to oil and gas. These three recycling systems are: Black Clawson Fiberclaim, Franklin, Ohio; Union Carbide, South Charleston, West Virginia; and Union Electric, St. Louis, Missouri. These produce a wet fuel, a pyrolytic gas, and a dry fuel, respectively. (BT)

Composite nuclear fuel fabrication methodology for gas fast reactors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vasudevamurthy, Gokul

An advanced fuel form for use in Gas Fast Reactors (GFR) was investigated. Criteria for the fuel includes operation at high temperature (˜1400°C) and high burnup (˜150 MWD/MTHM) with effective retention of fission products even during transient temperatures exceeding 1600°C. The GFR fuel is expected to contain up to 20% transuranics for a closed fuel cycle. Earlier evaluations of reference fuels for the GFR have included ceramic-ceramic (cercer) dispersion type composite fuels of mixed carbide or nitride microspheres coated with SiC in a SiC matrix. Studies have indicated that ZrC is a potential replacement for SiC on account of its higher melting point, increased fission product corrosion resistance and better chemical stability. The present work investigated natural uranium carbide microspheres in a ZrC matrix instead of SiC. Known issues of minor actinide volatility during traditional fabrication procedures necessitated the investigation of still high temperature but more rapid fabrication techniques to minimize these anticipated losses. In this regard, fabrication of ZrC matrix by combustion synthesis from zirconium and graphite powders was studied. Criteria were established to obtain sufficient matrix density with UC microsphere volume fractions up to 30%. Tests involving production of microspheres by spark erosion method (similar to electrodischarge machining) showed the inability of the method to produce UC microspheres in the desired range of 300 to 1200 mum. A rotating electrode device was developed using a minimum current of 80A and rotating at speeds up to 1500 rpm to fabricate microspheres between 355 and 1200 mum. Using the ZrC process knowledge, UC electrodes were fabricated and studied for use in the rotating electrode device to produce UC microspheres. Fabrication of the cercer composite form was studied using microsphere volume fractions of 10%, 20%, and 30%. The macrostructure of the composite and individual components at various stages were characterized to understand the required fabrication techniques and at the same time meet the necessary GFR fuel characteristics.

EXFILE: A program for compiling irradiation data on UN and UC fuel pins

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mayer, J. T.; Smith, R. L.; Weinstein, M. B.; Davison, H. W.

1973-01-01

A FORTRAN-4 computer program for handling fuel pin data is described. Its main features include standardized output, easy access for data manipulation, and tabulation of important material property data. An additional feature allows simplified preparation of input decks for a fuel swelling computer code (CYGRO-2). Data from over 300 high temperature nitride and carbide based fuel pin irradiations are listed.

Simultaneous determination of uranium carbide dissolution products by capillary zone electrophoresis.

PubMed

Sladkov, Vladimir; Fourest, Blandine

2009-03-20

Separation and simultaneous determination of a number of organic acid anions (oxalate, mellitate, trimellitate and benzoate) and U(VI) with direct UV detection is developed for analysis of uranium carbide (UC) dissolution products by capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE). Reverse polarity mode is used. It is found that complex formation of U(VI) with carbonate, used as a carrier electrolyte, allows U(VI) to be determined, as negatively charged species, in a single run with organic acid anions. Some parameters such as pH value, composition of electrolyte and detection wavelength are optimized. Under the chosen conditions (carbonate buffer (ionic strength of 100 mM), pH 9.8, 0.15 mM tetradecyltrimethylammonium bromide (TTAB)) a complete separation is achieved. Calibration plots are linear in two ranges of concentration for U(VI) ( approximately 1 x 10(-5) to 1 x 10(-3)), mellitate and trimellitate ( approximately 5 x 10(-6) to 5 x 10(-4)), and about one range ( approximately 1 x 10(-4) to 5 x 10(-3)) for oxalate and benzoate. Accuracy of the procedure is checked by the "added-found" method in standard mixture solutions. Relative standard deviation is within the range of 2-10% and the recovery is in the range of 90-110%. This method is applied for the analysis of real UC dissolution samples.

Uranium passivation by C + implantation: A photoemission and secondary ion mass spectrometry study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nelson, A. J.; Felter, T. E.; Wu, K. J.; Evans, C.; Ferreira, J. L.; Siekhaus, W. J.; McLean, W.

2006-03-01

Implantation of 33 keV C + ions into polycrystalline U 238 with a dose of 4.3 × 10 17 cm -2 produces a physically and chemically modified surface layer that prevents further air oxidation and corrosion. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and secondary ion mass spectrometry were used to investigate the surface chemistry and electronic structure of this C + ion implanted polycrystalline uranium and a non-implanted region of the sample, both regions exposed to air for more than a year. In addition, scanning electron microscopy was used to examine and compare the surface morphology of the two regions. The U 4f, O 1s and C 1s core-level and valence band spectra clearly indicate carbide formation in the modified surface layer. The time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry depth profiling results reveal an oxy-carbide surface layer over an approximately 200 nm thick UC layer with little or no residual oxidation at the carbide layer/U metal transitional interface.

Molecular structure of uranium carbides: Isomers of UC3

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zalazar, M. Fernanda; Rayón, Víctor M.; Largo, Antonio

2013-03-01

In this article, the most relevant isomers of uranium tricarbide are studied through quantum chemical methods. It is found that the most stable isomer has a fan geometry in which the uranium atom is bonded to a quasilinear C3 unit. Both, a rhombic and a ring CU(C2) structures are found about 104-125 kJ/mol higher in energy. Other possible isomers including linear geometries are located even higher. For each structure, we provide predictions for those molecular properties (vibrational frequencies, IR intensities, dipole moments) that could eventually help in their experimental detection. We also discuss the possible routes for the formation of the different UC3 isomers as well as the bonding situation by means of a topological analysis of the electron density.

Molecular structure of uranium carbides: isomers of UC3.

PubMed

Zalazar, M Fernanda; Rayón, Víctor M; Largo, Antonio

2013-03-21

In this article, the most relevant isomers of uranium tricarbide are studied through quantum chemical methods. It is found that the most stable isomer has a fan geometry in which the uranium atom is bonded to a quasilinear C3 unit. Both, a rhombic and a ring CU(C2) structures are found about 104-125 kJ/mol higher in energy. Other possible isomers including linear geometries are located even higher. For each structure, we provide predictions for those molecular properties (vibrational frequencies, IR intensities, dipole moments) that could eventually help in their experimental detection. We also discuss the possible routes for the formation of the different UC3 isomers as well as the bonding situation by means of a topological analysis of the electron density.

High temperature radiance spectroscopy measurements of solid and liquid uranium and plutonium carbides

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manara, D.; De Bruycker, F.; Boboridis, K.; Tougait, O.; Eloirdi, R.; Malki, M.

2012-07-01

In this work, an experimental study of the radiance of liquid and solid uranium and plutonium carbides at wavelengths 550 nm ⩽ λ ⩽ 920 nm is reported. A fast multi-channel spectro-pyrometer has been employed for the radiance measurements of samples heated up to and beyond their melting point by laser irradiation. The melting temperature of uranium monocarbide, soundly established at 2780 K, has been taken as a radiance reference. Based on it, a wavelength-dependence has been obtained for the high-temperature spectral emissivity of some uranium carbides (1 ⩽ C/U ⩽ 2). Similarly, the peritectic temperature of plutonium monocarbide (1900 K) has been used as a reference for plutonium monocarbide and sesquicarbide. The present spectral emissivities of solid uranium and plutonium carbides are close to 0.5 at 650 nm, in agreement with previous literature values. However, their high temperature behaviour, values in the liquid, and carbon-content and wavelength dependencies in the visible-near infrared range have been determined here for the first time. Liquid uranium carbide seems to interact with electromagnetic radiation in a more metallic way than does the solid, whereas a similar effect has not been observed for plutonium carbides. The current emissivity values have also been used to convert the measured radiance spectra into real temperature, and thus perform a thermal analysis of the laser heated samples. Some high-temperature phase boundaries in the systems U-C and Pu-C are shortly discussed on the basis of the current results.

Identification and distribution of inclusions in derby and ingot uranium

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

Schwartz, C.M.; Vaughan, D.A.

1953-08-31

Inclusions in derby and ingot uranium have been identified by X-ray diffraction methods. Metallographic and microradiographic examinations have shown that inclusions of MgF2, UO2, UN, and UO are concentrated at the top of derby and ingot metal by gravity separation. UC inclusions are distributed throughout the ingot metal. The amount of the carbide phase in the ingot varies with the temperature maintained during remelt of derby metal.

Comparisons of sodium void and Doppler reactivities in large oxide and carbide LMFBRs

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

Su, S F

Sodium void and Doppler reactivities in two full scale (3000 MWth) LMFBRs are analyzed; one is fueled with UO/sub 2/ - PuO/sub 2/ and the other is fueled with UC - PuC. These two reactors are analyzed for beginning of life as well as for beginning and end of equilibrium cycle conditions, and the variations of these two safety parameters with burnup are explained. A series of comperative analyses of these two and several hypothetical reactors are carried out to determine how differences in fuel type, sodium content, and heavy metal concentration between an oxide and a carbide reactor affectmore » their sodium void and Doppler reactivities. The effect of the presence of conrol poison on sodium void reactivity is also addressed.« less

Background reduction in 236U/238U measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Buompane, Raffaele; De Cesare, Mario; De Cesare, Nicola; Di Leva, Antonino; D'Onofrio, Antonio; Fifield, L. Keith; Fröhlich, Michaela; Gialanella, Lucio; Marzaioli, Fabio; Sabbarese, Carlo; Terrasi, Filippo; Tims, Stephen; Wallner, Anton

2015-10-01

The measurements of actinide isotopic ratios, in particular 236U/238U, in environmental samples requires high sensitivity. In particular, special effort must be devoted to the suppression of interfering nuclides, such as 235,238U, when measuring 236U. At the AMS facility of CIRCE, isotopic ratios down to ∼10-10 are currently measured using a gas E - ΔE detector. In order to push this limit lower towards natural levels, a time-of-flight system is used, featuring a micro-channel plate start detector and a Si stop detector. As the mass resolution of the latter is limited by the layout, an attempt to reduce the abundant isotope interference by other means has been undertaken. In this study, we report preliminary results on the characterization of the presence of molecular interferences when using UO-, UC- and UC2- as injected molecular ions. In particular the possibility to stabilize the current yield from carbide cathodes has been investigated: it was found that the best cathode preparation procedure is obtained pressing U salts baked at 800 °C mixed with graphite and Al powder. Moreover, the 238U background in 236U measurements is strongly reduced injecting UC- ions, as verified using a time-of-flight detection system. On the other hand, 235U interference is larger with respect to UO- injection, but this increase is smaller than expected on the basis of abundances of 13C and 17O in UC and UC2 molecules on one side and UO, on the other.

Testing Consent Order for Acrylic Acid

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This document announces that EPA has signed an enforceable testing Consent Order with BASF Corporation, Dow Chemical U.S.A., Hoechst Celanese Chemical Group, Rohm and Haas Company, and Union Carbide Chemicals and Plastics, Inc.

Nationwide analysis on the impact of socioeconomic land use factors and incidence of urothelial carcinoma.

PubMed

Brandt, Maximilian P; Gust, Kilian M; Mani, Jens; Vallo, Stefan; Höfner, Thomas; Borgmann, Hendrik; Tsaur, Igor; Thomas, Christian; Haferkamp, Axel; Herrmann, Eva; Bartsch, Georg

2018-02-01

Incidence rates for urothelial carcinoma (UC) have been reported to differ between countries within the European Union (EU). Besides occupational exposure to chemicals, other substances such as tobacco and nitrite in groundwater have been identified as risk factors for UC. We investigated if regional differences in UC incidence rates are associated with agricultural, industrial and residential land use. Newly diagnosed cases of UC between 2003 and 2010 were included. Information within 364 administrative districts of Germany from 2004 for land use factors were obtained and calculated as a proportion of the total area of the respective administrative district and as a smoothed proportion. Furthermore, information on smoking habits was included in our analysis. Kulldorff spatial clustering was used to detect different clusters. A negative binomial model was used to test the spatial association between UC incidence as a ratio of observed versus expected incidence rates, land use and smoking habits. We identified 437,847,834 person years with 171,086 cases of UC. Cluster analysis revealed areas with higher incidence of UC than others (p=0.0002). Multivariate analysis including significant pairwise interactions showed that the environmental factors were independently associated with UC (p<0.001). The RR was 1.066 (95% CI 1.052-1.080), 1.066 (95% CI 1.042-1.089) and 1.067 (95% CI 1.045-1.093) for agricultural, industrial and residential areas, respectively, and 0.996 (95% CI 0.869-0.999) for the proportion of never smokers. This study displays regional differences in incidence of UC in Germany. Additionally, results suggest that socioeconomic factors based on agricultural, industrial and residential land use may be associated with UC incidence rates. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Course on Instruments Updates Teachers.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chemical and Engineering News, 1986

1986-01-01

Describes a course in chemical instrumentation for high school chemistry teachers, paid for by Union Carbide. Teachers used spectrophotometer, nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometer, atomic absorption spectrograph, gas chromatograph, liquid chromatograph and infrared spectrophotometer. Also describes other teacher education seminars. (JM)

Infrared spectra and quantum chemical calculations of the uranium-carbon molecules UC, CUC, UCH, and U(CC)2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Xuefeng; Andrews, Lester; Ma, Dongxia; Gagliardi, Laura; Gonçalves, António P.; Pereira, Cláudia C. L.; Marçalo, Joaquim; Godart, Claude; Villeroy, Benjamin

2011-06-01

Laser evaporation of carbon rich uranium/carbon alloy targets into condensing argon or neon matrix samples gives weak infrared absorptions that increase on annealing, which can be assigned to new uranium carbon bearing species. New bands at 827.6 cm-1 in solid argon or 871.7 cm-1 in neon become doublets with mixed carbon 12 and 13 isotopes and exhibit the 1.0381 carbon isotopic frequency ratio for the UC diatomic molecule. Another new band at 891.4 cm-1 in argon gives a three-band mixed isotopic spectrum with the 1.0366 carbon isotopic frequency ratio, which is characteristic of the anti-symmetric stretching vibration of a linear CUC molecule. No evidence was found for the lower energy cyclic U(CC) isomer. Other bands at 798.6 and 544.0 cm-1 are identified as UCH, which has a uranium-carbon triple bond similar to that in UC. Evidence is found for bicyclic U(CC)2 and tricyclic U(CC)3. This work shows that U and C atoms react spontaneously to form the uranium carbide U≡C and C≡U≡C molecules with uranium-carbon triple bonds.

Chemical reactivity of CVC and CVD SiC with UO2 at high temperatures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Silva, Chinthaka M.; Katoh, Yutai; Voit, Stewart L.; Snead, Lance L.

2015-05-01

Two types of silicon carbide (SiC) synthesized using two different vapor deposition processes were embedded in UO2 pellets and evaluated for their potential chemical reaction with UO2. While minor reactivity between chemical-vapor-composited (CVC) SiC and UO2 was observed at comparatively low temperatures of 1100 and 1300 °C, chemical-vapor-deposited (CVD) SiC did not show any such reactivity. However, both CVD and CVC SiCs showed some reaction with UO2 at a higher temperature (1500 °C). Elemental maps supported by phase maps obtained using electron backscatter diffraction indicated that CVC SiC was more reactive than CVD SiC at 1500 °C. Furthermore, this investigation indicated the formation of uranium carbides and uranium silicide chemical phases such as UC, USi2, and U3Si2 as a result of SiC reaction with UO2.

Novel fabrication of silicon carbide based ceramics for nuclear applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singh, Abhishek Kumar

Advances in nuclear reactor technology and the use of gas-cooled fast reactors require the development of new materials that can operate at the higher temperatures expected in these systems. These materials include refractory alloys based on Nb, Zr, Ta, Mo, W, and Re; ceramics and composites such as SiC--SiCf; carbon--carbon composites; and advanced coatings. Besides the ability to handle higher expected temperatures, effective heat transfer between reactor components is necessary for improved efficiency. Improving thermal conductivity of the fuel can lower the center-line temperature and, thereby, enhance power production capabilities and reduce the risk of premature fuel pellet failure. Crystalline silicon carbide has superior characteristics as a structural material from the viewpoint of its thermal and mechanical properties, thermal shock resistance, chemical stability, and low radioactivation. Therefore, there have been many efforts to develop SiC based composites in various forms for use in advanced energy systems. In recent years, with the development of high yield preceramic precursors, the polymer infiltration and pyrolysis (PIP) method has aroused interest for the fabrication of ceramic based materials, for various applications ranging from disc brakes to nuclear reactor fuels. The pyrolysis of preceramic polymers allow new types of ceramic materials to be processed at relatively low temperatures. The raw materials are element-organic polymers whose composition and architecture can be tailored and varied. The primary focus of this study is to use a pyrolysis based process to fabricate a host of novel silicon carbide-metal carbide or oxide composites, and to synthesize new materials based on mixed-metal silicocarbides that cannot be processed using conventional techniques. Allylhydridopolycarbosilane (AHPCS), which is an organometal polymer, was used as the precursor for silicon carbide. Inert gas pyrolysis of AHPCS produces near-stoichiometric amorphous silicon carbide (a-SiC) at 900--1150 °C. Results indicated that this processing technique can be effectively used to fabricate various silicon carbide composites with UC or UO2 as the nuclear component.

Quantitative ion beam analysis of M-C-O systems: application to an oxidized uranium carbide sample

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martin, G.; Raveu, G.; Garcia, P.; Carlot, G.; Khodja, H.; Vickridge, I.; Barthe, M. F.; Sauvage, T.

2014-04-01

A large variety of materials contain both carbon and oxygen atoms, in particular oxidized carbides, carbon alloys (as ZrC, UC, steels, etc.), and oxycarbide compounds (SiCO glasses, TiCO, etc.). Here a new ion beam analysis methodology is described which enables quantification of elemental composition and oxygen concentration profile over a few microns. It is based on two procedures. The first, relative to the experimental configuration relies on a specific detection setup which is original in that it enables the separation of the carbon and oxygen NRA signals. The second concerns the data analysis procedure i.e. the method for deriving the elemental composition from the particle energy spectrum. It is a generic algorithm and is here successfully applied to characterize an oxidized uranium carbide sample, developed as a potential fuel for generation IV nuclear reactors. Furthermore, a micro-beam was used to simultaneously determine the local elemental composition and oxygen concentration profiles over the first microns below the sample surface. This method is adapted to the determination of the composition of M?C?O? compounds with a sensitivity on elemental atomic concentrations around 1000 ppm.

Putting on the green

EPA Science Inventory

The green chemistry movement is scrutinized for marks of tangible success in this short perspective. Beginning with the easily identified harm of the Union Carbide Bhopal, India disaster and the concerns of Love Canal site in Niagara Falls, NY the public can begin to more easily ...

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

Reiche, Helmut Matthias; Vogel, Sven C.

New in situ data for the U-C system are presented, with the goal of improving knowledge of the phase diagram to enable production of new ceramic fuels. The none quenchable, cubic, δ-phase, which in turn is fundamental to computational methods, was identified. Rich datasets of the formation synthesis of uranium carbide yield kinetics data which allow the benchmarking of modeling, thermodynamic parameters etc. The order-disorder transition (carbon sublattice melting) was observed due to equal sensitivity of neutrons to both elements. This dynamic has not been accurately described in some recent simulation-based publications.

Workplace 2000 Project. Final Performance Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

West Virginia Northern Community Coll., Wheeling.

West Virginia Northern Community College provided workplace literacy education and training for employees of Weirton Steel Corporation and Union Carbide Corporation. For Weirton Steel the training included 4,040 hours of instruction in fundamental literacy skills (reading, writing, speaking, and math), oral and written communications (including…

Low-cost Solar Array Project. Feasibility of the Silane Process for Producing Semiconductor-grade Silicon

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1979-01-01

The feasibility of Union Carbide's silane process for commercial application was established. An integrated process design for an experimental process system development unit and a commercial facility were developed. The corresponding commercial plant economic performance was then estimated.

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

McMurray, Jacob W.; Lindemer, Terrence B.; Brown, Nicholas R.

There are three important failure mechanisms that must be controlled in high-temperature gas-cooled reactor (HTGR) fuel for certain higher burnup applications are SiC layer rupture, SiC corrosion by CO, and coating compromise from kernel migration. All are related to high CO pressures stemming from free O generated when uranium present as UO 2 fissions and the O is not subsequently bound by other elements. Furthermore, in the HTGR UCO kernel design, CO buildup from excess O is controlled by the inclusion of additional uranium in the form of a carbide, UC x. An approach for determining the minimum UC xmore » content to ensure negligible CO formation was developed and demonstrated using CALPHAD models and the Serpent 2 reactor physics and depletion analysis tool. Our results are intended to be more accurate than previous estimates by including more nuclear and chemical factors, in particular the effect of transmutation products on the oxygen distribution as the fuel kernel composition evolves with burnup.« less

Preparation and crystal structure of U3Fe2C5: An original uranium-iron carbide

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Henriques, M. S.; Paixão, J. A.; Henriques, M. S. C.; Gonçalves, A. P.

2015-09-01

The U3Fe2C5 compound was prepared from the elements by arc-melting, followed by an heat-treatment in an induction furnace, at 1250 °C for 1 h and 1300 °C for 2 h. The crystal structure of this phase was determined by direct methods from single crystal X-ray diffraction data. U3Fe2C5 crystallizes in an original tetragonal crystal structure, with space group I4/mmm, a = 3.4980(3) Å and c = 19.8380(15) Å as lattice constants and two formula units per cell. This new type structure is characterized by the simultaneous presence of isolated and pairs of carbon atoms, the interatomic distances in the pairs being similar to a typical carbon-carbon double bond length found in a molecule. U3Fe2C5 is closely related to UC and UFeC2, and can be seen as build from two (distorted) UFeC2 unit cells and a UC layer.

The Bhopal Disaster of 1984

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Varma, Roli; Varma, Daya R.

2005-01-01

The 20th anniversary of the Bhopal calamity fell on December 3, 2004. The world's worst industrial disaster in Bhopal, India, happened because of inadequate maintenance by Union Carbide and poor monitoring by the Indian authorities. Malfunctioning safety measures, inappropriate location of the plant, and lack of information about the identity and…

Cleaning up Silicon

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2000-01-01

A development program that started in 1975 between Union Carbide and JPL, led to Advanced Silicon Materials LLC's, formerly ASiMI, commercial process for producing silane in viable quantities. The process was expanded to include the production of high-purity polysilicon for electronic devices. The technology came out of JPL's Low Cost Silicon Array Project.

Undereducated Uncompetitive USA.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Union Carbide Corp., Danbury, CT.

This study of the status of public education in the United States attempts to determine the implications for Union Carbide and recommends a role for the corporation in addressing national education issues. The report focuses on how well the education system is meeting the economic interests of our country and the company. The following chapters…

Union Carbide Corp. polysilicon status and plans

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Leipold, M. H.

1982-01-01

The status of polysilicon activities is summarized highlighted by moving the silane portion of the experimental process system development unit (EPSDU) to Washougal, Washington. The completion and operation of the silane EPSDU, is discussed along with research on the silane-to-silicon deposition process. Progress on the dichlorosilane process is also reported.

Enhancing Effective Stakeholder Participation in Local Groundwater Sustainability Planning through Technical Assistance in California

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weintraub, C.; Christian-Smith, J.; Dobbin, K.; Cullen, K.

2017-12-01

This presentation will share content from UCS's new publication, Getting Involved in Groundwater; A Guide to Effective Engagement in California's Groundwater Sustainability Plans, as well as lessons learned from collaborating with community organizations to provide technical assistance to Groundwater Sustainability Agency (GSA) board members and stakeholders in the San Joaquin Valley on Groundwater Sustainability Plan (GSP) development. California's Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) mandates extensive stakeholder engagement, presenting an opportunity for unincorporated, low-income communities that have historically been affected by but not included in water decisions. However, implementation requires a concerted, thoughtful effort. Through technical assistance and strategic outreach, the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) is working to ensure stakeholder engagement in GSP development is robust, diverse, and supported by the best science available. UCS created the GSP stakeholder engagement guide to equip GSA members, scientists and interested community members to meaningfully engage in the GSP development process. The guide serves as a technical primer on SGMA's GSP process and as a resource for understanding groundwater management in California. The guide is just one component of a larger effort to overcome barriers to effective engagement in sustainable groundwater management, especially those presented by technical information. In April, UCS co-hosted a technical assistance workshop for GSA and advisory committee members in Visalia, CA with the Community Water Center (CWC), a local environmental justice non-profit. The workshop was well received and UCS and the CWC were invited to host a second workshop in June. To deepen this engagement and provide one-on-one technical assistance, UCS developed a program to match relevant water experts in the UCS Science Network with GSA members or involved community members in need of specific technical support. Through these efforts, UCS is working to break down barriers to participation and ensure sound science is incorporated into the GSP process.

Chemical reactivity of CVC and CVD SiC with UO 2 at high temperatures

DOE PAGES

Silva, Chinthaka M.; Katoh, Yutai; Voit, Stewart L.; ...

2015-02-11

Two types of silicon carbide (SiC) synthesized using two different vapor deposition processes were embedded in UO 2 pellets and evaluated for their potential chemical reaction with UO 2. While minor reactivity between chemical-vapor-composited (CVC) SiC and UO 2 was observed at comparatively low temperatures of 1100 and 1300 C, chemical-vapor-deposited (CVD) SiC did not show any such reactivity, according to microstructural investigations. But, both CVD and CVC SiCs showed some reaction with UO 2 at a higher temperature (1500 C). Elemental maps supported by phase maps obtained using electron backscatter diffraction indicated that CVC SiC was more reactive thanmore » CVD SiC at 1500 C. Moreover, this investigation indicated the formation of uranium carbides and uranium silicide chemical phases such as UC, USi 2, and U 3Si 2 as a result of SiC reaction with UO 2.« less

Studies of thermionic materials for space power applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1972-01-01

The effect of microstructures of tungsten cladding on the transport rates of carbide fuel components was studied at 2073 K. hyperstoichiometric 90UC-10ZrC containing 4 wt% tungsten was clad with six types of tungsten material of 40 mil thickness. Screening tests of 1000 hours were carried out, and then selected samples were subjected to long-term tests up to 10,000 hours. The results indicate that the microstructures strongly affect the transport rates of carbide fuel components. The conditions for preparing (110) oriented cylindrical chloride tungsten emitters of high vacuum work functions were also investigated. Specimen sets were deposited on fluoride tungsten substrates for evaluating the effects of various deposition parameters on the degree and uniformity of the (110) preferred orientation and the vacuum work function. Long-term tests showed that the high vacuum work function of a cylindrical emitter was stable and the chloride tungsten to fluoride tungsten bond remained in excellent shape after 4850 hours at 2073 K.

Silicon Carbide Monofilament Reinforced Titanium Composites For Space Structures: A New Material Option

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kyle-Henney, Stephen; Flitcroft, Stephen; Shatwell, Robert; Gibbon, David; Voss, Gary; Harkness, Patrick

2012-07-01

Silicon carbide fibre reinforced titanium composite material has been in development since the 1980s initially for high temperature structures on hypersonic vehicles (HOTOL, NASP). Since then development has focused on military and civil aircraft. Development in the European Union has reached a level of maturity where it is again being considered for space applications. Current activities include pressure vessels and studies for launch vehicles and satellite applications. The paper provides background to the technology key performance characteristics current application work and future activities. The renewed interest in hypersonic vehicles has also picked up on the potential for lightweight metallic composites.

The Training and Technology Project Experimental Research Program for Vocational-Technical Teachers. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Merrill, E.L.; Russell, Wendell H.

Over a 31-month period from June 1966 to December 1968, the University of Tennessee and Union Carbide Corporation conducted preservice and inservice institutes for 160 industrial education teachers. These institutes carried college credit and covered Mechanical Technology and Drafting, Industrial Electronics Technology, Machine Shop and…

An Investigation of Methods for Reducing Sampling Error in Certain IRT (Item Response Theory) Procedures.

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-08-01

34th Streets Lawrence, KS 66045 Baltimore, MD 21218 ENIC Facility-Acquisitions 1 Dr. Ron Hambleton 4t33 Rugby Avenue School of Education Lcthesda, !ID...Sector Dr. V. R. R. Uppuluri 1 Dr. Rand R. Wilcox Union Carbide Corporation University of Southern California Nuclear Division Department of

High Temperature Bonding Techniques for Solar Cell Array

DTIC Science & Technology

1977-11-01

Kedaya, E. , Kawakami, J. K., Kopf, P. W. , Kwiatkowski, G. T., McNeil, D. W. , and Tulis , R. W., "Union Carbide Rept. " UCRI-735 (30 July 1973...6. Peters, E. N., Kedaya, E., Kawakami, J. K. , Kwiatkowski, G. T. , McNeil, D. W., and Tulis , R. W., Rubber Chem. and Technol. 48 (1), 14-18 (1975

Characterization and fabrication of target materials for RIB generation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Welton, R. F.; Janney, M. A.; Mueller, P. E.; Ortman, W. K.; Rauniyar, R.; Stracener, D. W.; Williams, C. L.

2001-07-01

This report discusses two techniques developed at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) that are employed for the fabrication and characterization of targets used in the production of Radioactive Ion Beams (RIBs). First, our method of in-house fabrication of uranium carbide targets is discussed. We have found that remarkably uniform coatings of UC2 can be formed on the microstructure of porous C matrices. The technique has been used to form UC2 layers on highly thermally conductive graphitic foams. Targets fabricated in this fashion have been tested under low-intensity proton bombardment and yields of selected radioactive species are reported. This report also describes an off-line test stand for the investigation of effusive and diffusive transport in RIB target/ion sources. Permeation rates of gases and vapors passing through a high temperature membrane or through an effusive channel constructed from the material under investigation are recorded. Diffusion coefficients and adsorption enthalpies, which characterize the interaction of RIB species with materials of the target/ion source, are extracted from the time profile of the recorded data. Examples of diffusion, effusion, and conductance measurements are provided.

Fabrication of (U, Zr) C-fueled/tungsten-clad specimens for irradiation in the Plum Brook Reactor Facility

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1972-01-01

Fuel samples, 90UC - 10 ZrC, and chemically vapor deposited tungsten fuel cups were fabricated for the study of the long term dimensional stability and compatibility of the carbide-tungsten fuel-cladding systems under irradiation. These fuel samples and fuel cups were assembled into the fuel pins of two capsules, designated as V-2E and V-2F, for irradiation in NASA Plum Brook Reactor Facility at a fission power density of 172 watts/c.c. and a miximum cladding temperature of 1823 K. Fabrication methods and characteristics of the fuel samples and fuel cups prepared are described.

Trace metal assay of U(3)O(8) powder by electrothermal AAS.

PubMed

Page, A G; Godbole, S V; Kulkarni, M J; Porwal, N K; Shelar, S S; Joshi, B D

1983-10-01

Methods have been developed for the direct determination of Ag, Ca, K., Li, Mg, Na, Pb, Sn and Zn in U(3)O(8) powder samples by electrothermal AAS. Nanogram and lower amounts of these elements have been determined with a relative standard deviation of 6-16% in mg amounts of sample (either alone or mixed with an equal weight of graphite). The results for NBL reference samples were in reasonable agreement with the certified values. X-Ray diffraction studies on the residues left from the graphite mixtures after the atomization cycle, confirmed the formation of uranium carbide (UC(2)).

Installation Restoration Program. Phase 1. Records Search, England AFB, Louisiana

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-05-01

compound shown on Figure 4.3. No herbicides, expired DDT or other pesticides were stored at this site. Some battery acid was stored in plastic boxes...Union Carbide Corporation, Chemicals and Plastics Divi- sion, Environomental Engineering Department. As a pro- cess/project engineer performed...paper mill waste treatment facility. Project Manager on Solid and Hazardous Waste study for a diverse chemicals and plastics production facility

Characterization studies of prototype ISOL targets for the RIA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Greene, John P.; Burtseva, Tatiana; Neubauer, Janelle; Nolen, Jerry A.; Villari, Antonio C. C.; Gomes, Itacil C.

2005-12-01

Targets employing refractory compounds are being developed for the rare isotope accelerator (RIA) facility to produce ion species far from stability. With the 100 kW beams proposed for the production targets, dissipation of heat becomes a challenging issue. In our two-step target design, neutrons are generated in a refractory primary target, inducing fission in the surrounding uranium carbide. The interplay of density, grain size, thermal conductivity and diffusion properties of the UC2 needs to be well understood before fabrication. Thin samples of uranium carbide were prepared for thermal conductivity measurements using an electron beam to heat the sample and an optical pyrometer to observe the thermal radiation. Release efficiencies and independent thermal analysis on these samples are being undertaken at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). An alternate target concept for RIA, the tilted slab approach promises to be simple with fast ion release and capable of withstanding high beam intensities while providing considerable yields via spallation. A proposed small business innovative research (SBIR) project will design a prototype tilted target, exploring the materials needed for fabrication and testing at an irradiation facility to address issues of heat transfer and stresses within the target.

Electron-beam-driven RI separator for SCRIT (ERIS) at RIKEN RI beam factory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ohnishi, T.; Ichikawa, S.; Koizumi, K.; Kurita, K.; Miyashita, Y.; Ogawara, R.; Tamaki, S.; Togasaki, M.; Wakasugi, M.

2013-12-01

We constructed a radioactive isotope (RI) separator named ERIS (electron-beam-driven RI separator for SCRIT) for the SCRIT (Self-Confinement RI Target) electron scattering facility at RIKEN RI Beam Factory (RIBF). In ERIS, production rate of fission products in the photofission of uranium is estimated to be 2.2 ×1011 fissions/s with 30 g of uranium and a 1-kW electron beam. During the commissioning of ERIS, the mass resolution and overall efficiency, including ionization, extraction, and transmission, were found to be 1660 and 21%, respectively, using natural xenon gas. The preparation of uranium carbide (UC2) RI production targets is described from which a 132Sn beam was successfully separated in our first attempt at RI production.

111. Photocopied August 1978. FOREBAY AND POWER HOUSE FROM WEST ...

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

111. Photocopied August 1978. FOREBAY AND POWER HOUSE FROM WEST FOREBAY EMBANKMENT, 1920 OR LATER, NOTICE THAT A GOOD PORTION OF THE GRATING OF THE ICE AND TRASH RACK HAS BEEN REMOVED FOR THE WINTER. ICE TENDED TO FORM ON THE RACK, CLOGGING IT UP AND INHIBITING THE FLOW, THE UNION CARBIDE PLANT IS VISIBLE ON THE FAR RIGHT. (881) - Michigan Lake Superior Power Company, Portage Street, Sault Ste. Marie, Chippewa County, MI

Industrial Hygiene Air Sampling and Bulk Sampling Instructions

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-12-01

registered trademark of Johns - Manville Products Corp., Denver, CO. "Cellosolve is a registered trademark of Union Carbide Corp., 270 Park Ave, New...registered trademark of Johns - Manville Products Corp., Denver, CO. 0 &Florisil is a registered trademark of Floridin Company, ITT System, Pittsburgh, PA. C...Thermosorb is a registered trademark of Johns - Manville Products Corp., Denver, CO. ®XAD-2 is a registered trademark of Rohm and Haas, Philadelphia, PA. C

Uranium oxidation kinetics monitored by in-situ X-ray diffraction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zalkind, S.; Rafailov, G.; Halevy, I.; Livneh, T.; Rubin, A.; Maimon, H.; Schweke, D.

2017-03-01

The oxidation kinetics of U-0.1 wt%Cr at oxygen pressures of 150 Torr and the temperature range of 90-150 °C was studied by means of in-situ X-ray diffraction (XRD). A "breakaway" in the oxidation kinetics is found at ∼0.25 μm, turning from a parabolic to a linear rate law. At the initial stage of oxidation the growth plane of UO2(111) is the prominent one. As the oxide thickens, the growth rate of UO2(220) plane increases and both planes grow concurrently. The activation energies obtained for the oxide growth are Qparabolic = 17.5 kcal/mol and Qlinear = 19 kcal/mol. Enhanced oxidation around uranium carbide (UC) inclusions is clearly observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

The effect of thermomechanical processing on second phase particle redistribution in U-10 wt%Mo

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

Hu, Xiaohua; Wang, Xiaowo; Joshi, Vineet V.

2018-03-01

The multi-pass hot-rolling process of an annealed uranium-10 wt% molybdenum coupon was studied by plane-strain compression finite element modeling. Two point correlation function (2PCF) was used to analyze the carbide particle distribution after each rolling reduction. The hot rolling simulation results show that the alignment of UC particles along grain boundaries will rotate during rolling until it is parallel to the rolling direction, to form stringer-like distributions which are typically observed in rolled products that contain inclusions. 2PCF analysis of simulation shows that the interparticle spacing shrinks along the normal direction. The number of major peaks of 2PCF along NDmore » decreases after large reduction. The locations of major peaks indicate the inter-stringer distances.« less

The Association Between CMV Viremia or Endoscopic Features and Histopathological Characteristics of CMV Colitis in Patients with Underlying Ulcerative Colitis.

PubMed

Yang, Hong; Zhou, Weixun; Lv, Hong; Wu, Dongsheng; Feng, Yunlu; Shu, Huijun; Jin, Meng; Hu, Lingling; Wang, Qiang; Wu, Dong; Chen, Jie; Qian, Jiaming

2017-05-01

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection has been shown to be related to severe or steroid-refractory ulcerative colitis (UC) flare-ups. The aim of this study was to evaluate the endoscopic and pathological characteristics of CMV colitis in patients with UC and to assess the predictive value of the endoscopic and pathological features of CMV colitis. A total of 50 consecutive UC patients with CMV infection who were admitted to Peking Union Medical College Hospital from 2010 to 2015 were enrolled in this study. Twenty-five UC patients with CMV infection (50.0%) had concurrent CMV colitis. When the cutoff value was set at 1150 copies, the sensitivity and specificity of blood CMV DNAq polymerase chain reaction for predicting CMV colitis were 44.4% and 78.9%, respectively. A higher proportion of endoscopic punched-out ulcers, irregular ulcers, and cobblestone-like appearance were observed among the patients in the CMV colitis group than those in the non-CMV colitis group (52.0% versus 20.0%, 60.0% versus 16.0%, and 20.0% versus 0%, respectively, P < 0.05). The number of CMV inclusion bodies per high-power field was significantly higher in those with punch-out ulcerations (25.7% versus 60.0%, P < 0.05). A higher grade of pathological inflammation was observed in the CMV colitis group than in the control group (68.0% versus 44.0%). Characteristic endoscopic features with punch-out ulcers and high CMV viremia load may be useful for predicting the presence of CMV colitis in histology. Punch-out ulcers were found to be associated with a higher number of inclusion bodies on histology, suggesting a role of targeted biopsy for endoscopist.

High Performance Composites Based on Polyurethanes Reinforced with Polydiacetylenes

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-04-04

Mv Niax triol LHT240 (ex. Union Carbide) is a polyoxypropylene adduct of 1,2,6- hexanetriol and after drying by rotary film evaporation had an...hompolyurethane hard segment material, HDD/MDI, which has been quench -cooled from 280 to -1000C: after DSC measurement on the same material giving the...feature in the DSC curves fig 15(c) for HDD/MDI is the development of a glass-transition at 8500 in curve B’ following quench -cooling. The ladder-like, hard

Installation Restoration Program. Phase I. Records Search. Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina.

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-07-01

and waste treatment pilot plants . Developed odor control program which suc- cessfully reduced odor emissions and represented Union Carbide at a public...the runway where oil and grease has been detected as well as the discharge from the City of Goldsboro waste- water treatment plant which occurs within...There are no known threatened or en- dangered plant species on base. The only endangered animal species which may potentially inhabit the base is the Red

Molecular and Electronic Structure of Thin Films of Protoporphyrin(IX)Fe(III)C1

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-11-10

Union Carbide). Electrical contact to the back side of the HOPG sample was made with a copper wire and conductive epoxy (Epo-tek H20E, Epoxy Technology...analysis of the contrast in STM images of copper phthalocyanine [641 and by Zheng and Tsong in their analysis of resonant tunneling via tip-localized...Electroanal. Chem. 1980, 110, 369. 71. Makinen, M.W.; Churg A.K. Iron Porphyri ns-P art One; Lever, A.B.P.; Gray, H.B., Eds.; Physical Bioinorganic

Union Carbide Chemicals and Plastics Company, Inc PSD Applicability

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This document may be of assistance in applying the New Source Review (NSR) air permitting regulations including the Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) requirements. This document is part of the NSR Policy and Guidance Database. Some documents in the database are a scanned or retyped version of a paper photocopy of the original. Although we have taken considerable effort to quality assure the documents, some may contain typographical errors. Contact the office that issued the document if you need a copy of the original.

Implementation and evaluation of fuel creep using advanced light-water reactor materials in FRAPCON 3.5

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carroll, Spencer

As current reactors approach the end of their operable lifetime, new reactors are needed if nuclear power is to continue being generated in the United States. Some utilities have already began construction on newer, more advanced LWR reactors, which use the same fuel as current reactors and have a similar but updated design. Others are researching next generation (GEN-IV) reactors which have new designs that utilize alternative fuel, coolants and other reactor materials. Many of these alternative fuels are capable of achieving higher burnups and are designed to be more accident tolerant than the currently used UO2 fuel. However, before these new materials can be used, extensive research must be done in order to obtain a detailed understanding of how the new fuels and other materials will interact. New fuels, such as uranium nitride (UN) and uranium carbide (UC) have several advantages over UO2, such as increased burnup capabilities and higher thermal conductivities. However, there are issues with each that prevent UC and UN from being used as direct replacements for UO2. Both UC and UN swell at a significantly higher rate than UO2 and neither fuel reacts favorably when exposed to water. Due to this, UC and UN are being considered more for GEN-IV reactors that use alternative coolant rather than for current LWRs. In an effort to increase accident tolerance, silicon carbide (SiC) is being considered for use as an alternative cladding. The high strength, high melting point and low oxidation of SiC make it an attractive cladding choice, especially in an accident scenario. However, as a ceramic, SiC is not ductile and will not creep outwards upon pellet-clad mechanical interaction (PCMI) which can cause a large build up in interfacial pressure. In order to understand the interaction between the high swelling fuels and unyielding SiC cladding, data on the properties and behaviors of these materials must be gathered and incorporated into FRAPCON. FRAPCON is a fuel performance code developed by PNNL and used by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) as a licensing code for US reactors. FRAPCON will give insight into how these new fuel-cladding combinations will affect cladding hoop stress and help determine if the new materials are feasible for use in a reactor. To accurately simulate the interaction between the new materials, a soft pellet model that allows for stresses on the pellet to affect pellet deformation will have to be implemented. Currently, FRAPCON uses a rigid pellet model that does not allow for feedback of the cladding onto the pellet. Since SiC does not creep at the temperatures being considered and is not ductile, any PCMI create a much higher interfacial pressure than is possible with Zircaloy. Because of this, it is necessary to implement a model that allows for pellet creep to alleviate some of these cladding stresses. These results will then be compared to FEMAXI-6, a Japanese fuel performance code that already calculates pellet stress and allows for cladding feedback onto the pellet. This research is intended to be a continuation and verification of previous work done by USC on the analysis of accident tolerant fuels with alternative claddings and is intended to prove that a soft pellet model is necessary to accurately model any fuel with SiC cladding.

Improved carbon control in the sintering of structural PM parts

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

Nowotarski, M.; Gaines, G.

1981-12-01

The use of a nitrogen-methanol atmosphere and a system of control of the atmosphere in furnace zones to provide improved control of carbon in sintering of sprockets are described.A new process has been developed by the Linde Div. of Union Carbide for the sintering of structural PM parts. The process is based on a nitrogen/methanol sintering atmosphere and features superior carbon control (/plus or minus/.03%), elimination of sooting due to lubricant decomposition, and significantly reduced furnace atmosphere gas flows as compared to typical endothermic atmosphere gas consumption.

Development of the silane process for the production of low-cost polysilicon

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Iya, S. K.

1986-01-01

It was recognized that the traditional hot rod type deposition process for decomposing silane is energy intensive, and a different approach for converting silane to silicon was chosen. A 1200 metric tons/year capacity commercial plant was constructed in Moses Lake, Washington. A fluidized bed processor was chosen as the most promising technology and several encouraging test runs were conducted. This technology continues to be very promising in producing low cost polysilicon. The Union Carbide silane process and the research development on the fluidized bed silane decomposition are discussed.

Studies of uranium carbide targets of a high density

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Panteleev, V. N.; Alyakrinskiy, O.; Barbui, M.; Barzakh, A. E.; Dubois, M.; Eleon, C.; Essabaa, S.; Fedorov, D. V.; Gaubert, G.; Ionan, A. M.; Ivanov, V. S.; Jardin, P.; Lau, C.; Leroy, R.; Lhersonneau, G.; Mezilev, K. A.; Mhamed, C.; Molkanov, P. L.; Moroz, F. V.; Orlov, S. Yu.; Saint Laurent, M. G.; Stroe, L.; Tecchio, L. B.; Tonezzer, M.; Villari, A. C. C.; Volkov, Yu. M.

2008-10-01

Production of Cs and Fr isotopes from uranium carbide targets of a high density has been investigated at IRIS (Investigation Radioactive Isotopes at Synchrocyclotron), Gatchina. The UC target material with a density of 12 g/cm3 was prepared in a form of pellets. Two targets were tested on-line under the same temperature conditions: (a) a reference small target with a thickness of 4.5 g/cm2; (b) a heavier (so called intermediate) target with a thickness of 91 g/cm2. Yields and release efficiencies of nuclides with half-lives from some minutes to some milliseconds produced by 1 GeV protons in these targets are presented. It is remarkable that yields, even those of very short-lived isotopes such as 214Fr (T1/2 = 5 ms) and 219Fr (T1/2 = 20 ms), increase proportionally to the target thickness. A one month off-line heating test of the 91 g/cm2 target at a temperature of 2000 °C has been carried out successfully. The yields and release efficiencies of Cs and Fr measured on-line before and after the heating test coincided within the limits of measurement errors, thereby demonstrating the conservation of the target unit parameters. Based on these very promising results, a heavier target with a mass about 0.7 kg is prepared presently at IRIS.

Characterization of uranium carbide target materials to produce neutron-rich radioactive beams

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tusseau-Nenez, Sandrine; Roussière, Brigitte; Barré-Boscher, Nicole; Gottberg, Alexander; Corradetti, Stefano; Andrighetto, Alberto; Cheikh Mhamed, Maher; Essabaa, Saïd; Franberg-Delahaye, Hanna; Grinyer, Joanna; Joanny, Loïc; Lau, Christophe; Le Lannic, Joseph; Raynaud, Marc; Saïd, Abdelhakim; Stora, Thierry; Tougait, Olivier

2016-03-01

In the framework of a R&D program aiming to develop uranium carbide (UCx) targets for radioactive nuclear beams, the Institut de Physique Nucléaire d'Orsay (IPNO) has developed an experimental setup to characterize the release of various fission fragments from UCx samples at high temperature. The results obtained in a previous study have demonstrated the feasibility of the method and started to correlate the structural properties of the samples and their behavior in terms of nuclear reaction product release. In the present study, seven UCx samples have been systematically characterized in order to better understand the correlation between their physicochemical characteristics and release properties. Two very different samples, the first one composed of dense UC and the second one of highly porous UCx made of multi-wall carbon nanotubes, were provided by the ActILab (ENSAR) collaboration. The others were synthesized at IPNO. The systems for irradiation and heating necessary for the release studies have been improved with respect to those used in previous studies. The results show that the open porosity is hardly the limiting factor for the fission product release. The homogeneity of the microstructure and the pore size distribution contributes significantly to the increase of the release. The use of carbon nanotubes in place of traditional micrometric graphite particles appears to be promising, even if the homogeneity of the microstructure can still be enhanced.

Ab initio study on structural stability of uranium carbide

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sahoo, B. D.; Joshi, K. D.; Gupta, Satish C.

2013-06-01

First principles calculations have been performed using plane wave pseudopotential and full potential linearized augmented plane wave (FP-LAPW) methods to analyze structural, elastic and dynamic stability of UC under hydrostatic compression. Our calculations within pseudopotential method suggest that the rocksalt (B1) structure will transform to body centered orthorhombic (bco) structure at ˜21.5 GPa. The FP-LAPW calculations put this transition at 23 GPa. The transition pressures determined from our calculations though agree reasonably with the experimental value of 27 GPa, the high pressure bco structure suggested by theory differs slightly from the experimentally reported pseudo bco phase. The elastic stability analysis of B1 phase suggests that the B1 to bco transition is driven by the failure of C44 modulus. This finding is further substantiated by the lattice dynamic calculations which demonstrate that the B1 phase becomes dynamically unstable around the transition pressure and the instability is of long wavelength nature.

Electrochemical testing of industrially produced PEO-based polymer electrolytes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Appetecchi, G. B.; Alessandrini, F.; Duan, R. G.; Arzu, A.; Passerini, S.

The present report describes the results of the electrochemical tests performed on polyethyleneoxide-based polymer electrolyte thin films industrially manufactured by blown-extrusion. The polymer electrolyte composition was PEO 20 LiCF 3SO 3: 16.7% γLiAlO 2. The polymer electrolyte film was tested to evaluate the ionic conductivity as well as the interfacial properties with lithium metal anodes. The work was developed within the advanced lithium polymer electrolyte (ALPE) project, an Italian project devoted to the realization of lithium polymer batteries for electric vehicle applications, in collaboration with Union Carbide.

Regional Integrated Assessments in Support of Decision-making: Process, Product, and Policy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Luers, A. L.; Hayhoe, K.

2006-12-01

Regional integrated climate assessments are increasingly viewed as critical for informing sound climate policy. Yet, the scientific information in many assessments often is not effectively transformed in to policies to protect the environment. Why are some assessments more effective at informing policies than others? We will provide some insight into this question by describing the lessons learned from a series of regional assessments organized by the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS). Working with independent experts in the global change research community, UCS has produced assessments in three regions of the US California, the Great Lakes, and the Gulf Coast. The reports from each of these assessments continue to be used by local, state and regional decision-makers in related management and policy initiatives. We attribute the success of these assessments in motivating and supporting climate-related decisions to four factors: (1) credibility, attained both through scientific peer-review and by engaging local scientific and community leaders; (2) regional relevance of assessment focus areas; (3) accessible presentation of the results to non-technical audiences; and (4) wide communication and distribution of the report to the media, the public, civic groups, and public officials.

The adsorption of methyl iodide on uranium and uranium dioxide: Surface characterization using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Auger electron spectroscopy (AES)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dillard, J. G.; Moers, H.; Klewe-Nebenius, H.; Kirch, G.; Pfennig, G.; Ache, H. J.

1984-09-01

The adsorption of methyl iodide on uranium and on uranium dioxide has been studied at 25 °C. Surfaces of the substrates were characterized before and after adsorption by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Auger electron spectroscopy (AES). The XPS binding energy results indicate that CH 3I adsorption on uranium yields a carbide-type carbon, UC, and uranium iodide, UI 3. On uranium dioxide the carbon electron binding energy measurements are consistent with the formation of a hydrocarbon, —CH 3-type moiety. The interpretation of XPS and AES spectral features for CH 3I adsorption on uranium suggest that a complex dissociative adsorption reaction takes place. Adsorption of CH 3I on UO 2 occurs via a dissociative process. Saturation coverage occurs on uranium at approximately two langmuir (1 L = 10 -6 Torr s) exposure whereas saturation coverage on uranium dioxide is found at about five langmuir.

High pressure phase transformation in uranium carbide: A first principle study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sahoo, B. D.; Joshi, K. D.; Gupta, Satish C.

2013-02-01

First principles calculations have been carried out to analyze structural, elastic and dynamic stability, of UC under hydrostatic compression. The comparison of enthalpies of rocksalt type (B1) and body centered orthorhombic (bco) structures as a function of pressure suggests the B1 →bco transition at ˜ 23 GPa, in good agreement with experimental value of 27 GPa. From the lattice dynamic calculations we have determined the phonon dispersion relations for B1 phase at various compressions. It is found that TA phonon branch along Γ-X direction becomes imaginary around the transition pressure. Further, the phonon instability so caused is of long wavelength nature as it occurs near the Brillouin zone centre. This long wavelength phonon instability at the transition point indicates that the B1 →bco transition is driven by elastic failure (the vanishing of C44 modulus). Various physical quantities such as equilibrium volume, bulk modulus, pressure derivative of bulk modulus and elastic constants have been determined at zero pressure and compared with data available in literature.

p53 expression in patients with ulcerative colitis - associated with dysplasia and carcinoma: a systematic meta-analysis.

PubMed

Lu, Xiaohong; Yu, Yuanjie; Tan, Shiyun

2017-10-25

Tumor suppressor gene p53 expression has been reported in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC). However, the correlation between p53 expression and UC remains controversial. The aim of this meta-analysis was to investigate the association between p53 expression and different pathological types of UC. Publications were searched in the PubMed, Embase, EBSCO, Wangfang, and CNKI databases. The overall odds ratios (ORs) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were summarized in this study. Final 19 papers were identified in this meta-analysis, including 1068 patients with UC and 130 normal tissue samples. Immunohistochemical p53 expression was significantly higher in UC without dysplasia and carcinoma (UC group) compared to normal tissue samples (OR = 3.14, P = 0.001), higher in UC with dysplasia than in UC group (OR = 10.76, P < 0.001), and higher in UC with colorectal cancer (CRC) than in UC with dysplasia (OR = 1.69, P = 0.035). Subgroup analysis of ethnicity (UC group vs. normal tissues) showed that p53 expression was correlated with UC in Asians, but not in Caucasians. When UC with dysplasia was compared to UC group, p53 expression was linked to UC with dysplasia among both Asians and Caucasians. When UC-CRC was compared to UC with dysplasia, p53 expression was not associated with UC-CRC in both Caucasians and Asians. p53 expression was closely associated with UC-CRC development. p53 expression showed different ethnic characteristics among different pathological types of UC.

Development of a UC781 releasing polyethylene vinyl acetate vaginal ring.

PubMed

McConville, Christopher; Major, Ian; Friend, David R; Clark, Meredith R; Malcolm, R Karl

2012-12-01

UC781 is potent, hydrophobic, non-nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) against the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). UC781 is currently being investigated for use as a potential HIV microbicide. A study in rhesus macaques demonstrated that a 100-mg UC781-loaded silicone elastomer vaginal ring released limited amounts of UC781 into the vaginal fluid and tissue after 28 days. The reason for this was due to the hydrophobic nature and limited aqueous solubility of UC781. This study describes the manufacture of UC781-loaded polyethylene vinyl acetate (PEVA) vaginal rings, which have an improved in vitro release rate of UC781 when compared to UC781-loaded silicone elastomer vaginal rings. The study demonstrates that the UC781 in the PEVA rings is mostly in its amorphous form due to the rings being manufactured above UC781's melting point. Furthermore, the rings do not show any signs of UC781 degradation, such as the presence of UC22.

Enhanced cell survival and paracrine effects of mesenchymal stem cells overexpressing hepatocyte growth factor promote cardioprotection in myocardial infarction

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

Zhao, Liyan; Liu, Xiaolin; Zhang, Yuelin

Poor cell survival post transplantation compromises the therapeutic benefits of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in myocardial infarction (MI). Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is an important cytokine for angiogenesis, anti-inflammation and anti-apoptosis. This study aimed to evaluate the cardioprotective effects of MSCs overexpressing HGF in a mouse model of MI. The apoptosis of umbilical cord-derived MSCs (UC-MSCs) and HGF-UC-MSCs under normoxic and hypoxic conditions was detected. The conditioned medium (CdM) of UC-MSCs and HGF-UC-MSCs under a hypoxic condition was harvested and its protective effect on neonatal cardiomyocytes (NCMs) exposed to a hypoxic challenge was examined. UC-MSCs and HGF-UC-MSCs were transplanted intomore » the peri-infarct region in mice following MI and heart function assessed 4 weeks post transplantation. The apoptosis of HGF-UC-MSCs under hypoxic conditions was markedly decreased compared with that of UC-MSCs. NCMs treated with HGF-UC-MSC hypoxic CdM (HGF-UC-MSCs-hy-CdM) exhibited less cell apoptosis in response to hypoxic challenge than those treated with UC-MSC hypoxic CdM (UC-MSCs-hy-CdM). HGF-UC-MSCs-hy-CdM released the inhibited p-Akt and lowered the enhanced ratio of Bax/Bcl-2 induced by hypoxia in the NCMs. HGF-UC-MSCs-hy-CdM expressed higher levels of HGF, EGF, bFGF and VEGF than UC-MSCs-hy-CdM. Transplantation of HGF-UC-MSCs or UC-MSCs greatly improved heart function in the mouse model of MI. Compared with UC-MSCs, transplantation of HGF-UC-MSCs was associated with less cardiomyocyte apoptosis, enhanced angiogenesis and increased proliferation of cardiomyocytes. This study may provide a novel therapeutic strategy for MSC-based therapy in cardiovascular disease.« less

The potential of volatile organic compounds for the detection of active disease in patients with ulcerative colitis.

PubMed

Smolinska, A; Bodelier, A G L; Dallinga, J W; Masclee, A A M; Jonkers, D M; van Schooten, F-J; Pierik, M J

2017-05-01

To optimise treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC), patients need repeated assessment of mucosal inflammation. Current non-invasive biomarkers and clinical activity indices do not accurately reflect disease activity in all patients and cannot discriminate UC from non-UC colitis. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in exhaled air could be predictive of active disease or remission in Crohn's disease. To investigate whether VOCs are able to differentiate between active UC, UC in remission and non-UC colitis. UC patients participated in a 1-year study. Clinical activity index, blood, faecal and breath samples were collected at each out-patient visit. Patients with clear defined active faecal calprotectin >250 μg/g and inactive disease (Simple Clinical Colitis Activity Index <3, C-reactive protein <5 mg/L and faecal calprotectin <100 μg/g) were included for cross-sectional analysis. Non-UC colitis was confirmed by stool culture or radiological evaluation. Breath samples were analysed by gas chromatography time-of-flight mass spectrometry and kernel-based method to identify discriminating VOCs. In total, 72 UC (132 breath samples; 62 active; 70 remission) and 22 non-UC-colitis patients (22 samples) were included. Eleven VOCs predicted active vs. inactive UC in an independent internal validation set with 92% sensitivity and 77% specificity (AUC 0.94). Non-UC colitis patients could be clearly separated from active and inactive UC patients with principal component analysis. Volatile organic compounds can accurately distinguish active disease from remission in UC and profiles in UC are clearly different from profiles in non-UC colitis patients. VOCs have demonstrated potential as new non-invasive biomarker to monitor inflammation in UC. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Economics of polysilicon processes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yaws, C. L.; Li, K. Y.; Chou, S. M.

1986-01-01

Techniques are being developed to provide lower cost polysilicon material for solar cells. Existing technology which normally provides semiconductor industry polysilicon material is undergoing changes and also being used to provide polysilicon material for solar cells. Economics of new and existing technologies are presented for producing polysilicon. The economics are primarily based on the preliminary process design of a plant producing 1,000 metric tons/year of silicon. The polysilicon processes include: Siemen's process (hydrogen reduction of trichlorosilane); Union Carbide process (silane decomposition); and Hemlock Semiconductor process (hydrogen reduction of dichlorosilane). The economics include cost estimates of capital investment and product cost to produce polysilicon via the technology. Sensitivity analysis results are also presented to disclose the effect of major paramentes such as utilities, labor, raw materials and capital investment.

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

Bates, L.D.

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is a principle Department of Energy (DOE) Research Institution operated by the Union Carbide Corporation - Nuclear Division (UCC-ND) under direction of the DOE Oak Ridge Operations Office (DOE-ORO). The Laboratory was established in east Tennessee, near what is now the city of Oak Ridge, in the mid 1940s as a part of the World War II effort to develop a nuclear weapon. Since its inception, disposal of radioactively contaminated materials, both solid and liquid, has been an integral part of Laboratory operations. The purpose of this document is to provide a detailed description ofmore » the ORNL Solid Waste Storage Areas, to describe the practice and procedure of their operation, and to address the health and safety impacts and concerns of that operation.« less

The production of corporate research to manufacture doubt about the health hazards of products: an overview of the Exponent Bakelite™ simulation study

PubMed Central

2016-01-01

Although corporate sponsorship of research does not necessarily lead to biased results, in some industries it has resulted in the publication of inaccurate and misleading information. Some companies have hired scientific consulting firms to retrospectively calculate exposures to products that are no longer manufactured or sold. As an example, this paper reviews one such study – a litigation-engendered study of Union Carbide Corporation’s asbestos-containing product, Bakelite™. This analysis is based on previously secret documents produced as a result of litigation. The study published asbestos fiber exposure measurements that underestimated actual exposures to create doubt about the hazards associated with the manufacture and manipulation of Bakelite™. PMID:27128626

Single crystal diamond lapping procedure

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

Grayson, R.A.

A facility capable of resharpening quality cutting edges on single crystal diamond cutting tools was needed as the demand in precision machining of special optical surfaces became a common occurrence here at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. A specially constructed lapping machine using an air bearing spindle was built to achieve the required edge quality. The basic design for this lap was taken out of a technical report by W.L. Duke and R.T. Lovell of Oak Ridge Y-12 Plant Union Carbide Corp. We have also purchased two commercially built lapping machines recommended to us by Mr. Cory A. Knottenbelt, formerly ofmore » R.C.A. Diamond Lapping Facility, in Indianapolis, Indiana, now doing state-of-the-art polishing and relapping at LLNL facilities.« less

Fabrication and life testing of thermionic converters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yang, L.; Bruce, R.

1973-01-01

An unfueled converter containing a chloride-fluoride duplex tungsten emitter of 4.78 eV vacuum work function was tested for 46,647 hours at an emitter temperature of 1973 K and an electrode power output of about 8 watts/sq cm. The test demonstrated the superior and stable performance of the (110) oriented tungsten emitter at high temperatures. Three 90 UC-10 ZrC(C/U = 1.04, tungsten additive = 4 wt %) fueled converters were fabricated and tested at an emitter temperature of 1873 K. Converter containing chloride-arc-cast duplex tungsten cladding showed temperature thermionic performance and slower rate of performance drop than converter containing chloride-fluoride duplex tungsten cladding. This is believed to be due to the superior fuel component diffusion resistance of the arc-cast tungsten substrate used in the fuel cladding. It was shown that a converter containing a carbide fueled chloride-arc-cast duplex tungsten emitter with an initial electrode power output of 6.80 watts/sq cm could still deliver an electrode power output of 6.16 watts/sq cm after 18,632 hours of operation at an emitter temperature of 1873 K.

Involvement of WNT Signaling in the Regulation of Gestational Age-Dependent Umbilical Cord-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cell Proliferation

PubMed Central

Shono, Akemi; Yoshida, Makiko; Yamana, Keiji; Thwin, Khin Kyae Mon; Kuroda, Jumpei; Kurokawa, Daisuke; Koda, Tsubasa; Nishida, Kosuke; Ikuta, Toshihiko; Mizobuchi, Masami; Taniguchi-Ikeda, Mariko

2017-01-01

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a heterogeneous cell population that is isolated initially from the bone marrow (BM) and subsequently almost all tissues including umbilical cord (UC). UC-derived MSCs (UC-MSCs) have attracted an increasing attention as a source for cell therapy against various degenerative diseases due to their vigorous proliferation and differentiation. Although the cell proliferation and differentiation of BM-derived MSCs is known to decline with age, the functional difference between preterm and term UC-MSCs is poorly characterized. In the present study, we isolated UC-MSCs from 23 infants delivered at 22–40 weeks of gestation and analyzed their gene expression and cell proliferation. Microarray analysis revealed that global gene expression in preterm UC-MSCs was distinct from term UC-MSCs. WNT signaling impacts on a variety of tissue stem cell proliferation and differentiation, and its pathway genes were enriched in differentially expressed genes between preterm and term UC-MSCs. Cell proliferation of preterm UC-MSCs was significantly enhanced compared to term UC-MSCs and counteracted by WNT signaling inhibitor XAV939. Furthermore, WNT2B expression in UC-MSCs showed a significant negative correlation with gestational age (GA). These results suggest that WNT signaling is involved in the regulation of GA-dependent UC-MSC proliferation. PMID:29138639

Characterization of Intestinal Microbiota in Ulcerative Colitis Patients with and without Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis.

PubMed

Kevans, D; Tyler, A D; Holm, K; Jørgensen, K K; Vatn, M H; Karlsen, T H; Kaplan, G G; Eksteen, B; Gevers, D; Hov, J R; Silverberg, M S

2016-03-01

There is an unexplained association between ulcerative colitis [UC] and primary sclerosing cholangitis [PSC], with the intestinal microbiota implicated as an important factor. The study aim was to compare the structure of the intestinal microbiota of patients with UC with and without PSC. UC patients with PSC [PSC-UC] and without PSC [UC] were identified from biobanks at Oslo University Hospital, Foothills Hospital Calgary and Mount Sinai Hospital Toronto. Microbial DNA was extracted from colonic tissue and sequencing performed of the V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene on Illumina MiSeq. Sequences were assigned to operational taxonomic units [OTUs] using Quantitative Insights Into Microbial Ecology [QIIME]. Microbial alpha diversity, beta diversity, and relative abundance were compared between PSC-UC and UC phenotypes. In all, 31 PSC-UC patients and 56 UC patients were included. Principal coordinate analysis [PCoA] demonstrated that city of sample collection was the strongest determinant of taxonomic profile. In the Oslo cohort, Chao 1 index was modestly decreased in PSC-UC compared with UC [p = 0.04] but did not differ significantly in the Calgary cohort. No clustering by PSC phenotype was observed using beta diversity measures. For multiple microbial genera there were nominally significant differences between UC and PSC-UC, but results were not robust to false-discovery rate correction. No strong PSC-specific microbial associations in UC patients consistent across different cohorts were identified. Recruitment centre had a strong effect on microbial composition. Future studies should include larger cohorts to increase power and the ability to control for confounding factors. Copyright © 2015 European Crohn’s and Colitis Organisation (ECCO). Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Appendectomy does not decrease the risk of future colectomy in UC: results from a large cohort and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Parian, Alyssa; Limketkai, Berkeley; Koh, Joyce; Brant, Steven R; Bitton, Alain; Cho, Judy H; Duerr, Richard H; McGovern, Dermot P; Proctor, Deborah D; Regueiro, Miguel D; Rioux, John D; Schumm, Phil; Taylor, Kent D; Silverberg, Mark S; Steinhart, A Hillary; Hernaez, Ruben; Lazarev, Mark

2017-08-01

Early appendectomy is inversely associated with the development of UC. However, the impact of appendectomy on the clinical course of UC is controversial, generally favouring a milder disease course. We aim to describe the effect appendectomy has on the disease course of UC with focus on the timing of appendectomy in relation to UC diagnosis. Using the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases Inflammatory Bowel Disease Genetics Consortium database of patients with UC, the risk of colectomy was compared between patients who did and did not undergo appendectomy. In addition, we performed a meta-analysis of studies that examined the association between appendectomy and colectomy. 2980 patients with UC were initially included. 111 (4.4%) patients with UC had an appendectomy; of which 63 were performed prior to UC diagnosis and 48 after diagnosis. In multivariable analysis, appendectomy performed at any time was an independent risk factor for colectomy (OR 1.9, 95% CI 1.1 to 3.1), with appendectomy performed after UC diagnosis most strongly associated with colectomy (OR 2.2, 95% CI 1.1 to 4.5). An updated meta-analysis showed appendectomy performed either prior to or after UC diagnosis had no effect on colectomy rates. Appendectomy performed at any time in relation to UC diagnosis was not associated with a decrease in severity of disease. In fact, appendectomy after UC diagnosis may be associated with a higher risk of colectomy. These findings question the proposed use of appendectomy as treatment for UC. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/.

Approaches to improve the stability of the antiviral agent UC781 in aqueous solutions.

PubMed

Damian, Festo; Fabian, Judit; Friend, David R; Kiser, Patrick F

2010-08-30

In this work, we evaluated the chemical stability profiles of UC781 based solutions to identify excipients that stabilize the microbicidal agent UC781. When different antioxidants were added to UC781 in sulfobutylether-beta-cyclodextrin (SBE-beta-CD) solutions and subjected to a 50 degrees C stability study, it was observed that EDTA was a better stabilizing agent than sodium metabisulfite, glutathione or ascorbic acid. Some antioxidants accelerated the degradation of UC781, suggesting metal-catalyzed degradation of UC781. Furthermore, we observed substantial degradation of UC781 when stored in 1% Tween 80 and 1% DMSO solutions alone or in those with 10mM EDTA. On the other hand, improved stability of UC781 in the presence of 100 and 200mM of EDTA was observed in these solutions. The addition of both EDTA and citric acid in the stock solutions resulted in recovery of more than 60% of UC781 after 12 weeks. Generally, 10% SBE-beta-CD in the presence of EDTA and citric acid stabilized UC781 solutions: the amount of UC781 recovered approaching 95% after 12 weeks of storage at 40 degrees C. We also showed that the desulfuration reaction of the UC781 thioamide involves oxygen by running solution stability studies in deoxygenated media. Improved stability of UC781 in the present study indicates that the incorporation of EDTA, citric acid and SBE-beta-CD and the removal of oxygen in formulations of this drug will aid in increasing the stability of UC781 where solutions of the drug are required. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Disposition and metabolism of 2,3-( UC)dichloropropene in rats after inhalation

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

Bond, J.A.; Medinsky, M.A.; Dutcher, J.S.

1985-01-01

2,3-Dichloropropene (2,3-DCP) is a constituent of some commercially available preplant soil fumigants for the control of plant parasitic nematodes. The purpose of this investigation was to determine the disposition and metabolism of 2,3-( UC)DCP in rats after inhalation. Male Fischer-344 rats were exposed nose-only to a vapor concentration of 250 nmol 2,3-( UC)DCP/liter air (7.5 ppm; 25C, 620 Torr) for 6 hr. Blood samples were taken during exposure, and urine, feces, expired air, and tissues were collected for up to 65 hr after exposure. Urinary excretion was the major route of elimination of UC (55% of estimated absorbed 2,3-DCP). Half-timemore » for elimination of UC in urine was 9.8 +/- 0.05 hr (anti x +/- SE). Half-time for elimination of UC feces (17% of absorbed 2,3-DCP) was 12.9 +/- 0.14 hr (anti x +/- SE). Approximately 1 and 3% of the estimated absorbed 2,3-( UC)DCP were exhaled as either 2,3-( UC)DCP or UCO2, respectively. Concentrations of UC in blood increased during 240 min of exposure, after which no further increases in blood concentration of UC were seen. UC was widely distributed in tissues analyzed after a 6-hr exposure of rats to 2,3-( UC)DCP. Urinary bladder (150 nmol/g), nasal turbinates (125 nmol/g), kidneys (84 nmol/g), small intestine (61 nmol/g), and liver (35 nmol/g) were tissues with the highest concentrations of UC immediately after exposure. Over 90% of the UC in tissues analyzed was 2,3-DCP metabolites. Half-times for elimination of UC from tissues examined ranged from 3 to 11 hr. The data from this study indicate that after inhalation 2,3-DCP is metabolized in tissues and readily excreted. 21 references. 2 figures, 4 tables.« less

Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells: Subpopulations and Their Difference in Cell Biology and Effects on Retinal Degeneration in RCS Rats.

PubMed

Wang, L; Li, P; Tian, Y; Li, Z; Lian, C; Ou, Q; Jin, C; Gao, F; Xu, J-Y; Wang, J; Wang, F; Zhang, J; Zhang, J; Li, W; Tian, H; Lu, L; Xu, G-T

2017-01-01

Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs) are potential candidates for treating retinal degeneration (RD). To further study the biology and therapeutic effects of the hUC-MSCs on retinal degeneration. Two hUC-MSC subpopulations, termed hUC-MSC1 and hUC-MSC2, were isolated by single-cell cloning method and their therapeutic functions were compared in RCS rat, a RD model. Although both subsets satisfied the basic requirements for hUC-MSCs, they were significantly different in morphology, proliferation rate, differentiation capacity, phenotype and gene expression. Furthermore, only the smaller, fibroblast-like, faster growing subset hUC-MSC1 displayed stronger colony forming potential as well as adipogenic and osteogenic differentiation capacities. When the two subsets were respectively transplanted into the subretinal spaces of RCS rats, both subsets survived, but only hUC-MSC1 expressed RPE cell markers Bestrophin and RPE65. More importantly, hUC-MSC1 showed stronger rescue effect on the retinal function as indicated by the higher b-wave amplitude on ERG examination, thicker retinal nuclear layer, and decreased apoptotic photoreceptors. When both subsets were treated with interleukin-6, mimicking the inflammatory environment when the cells were transplanted into the eyes with degenerated retina, hUC-MSC1 expressed much higher levels of trophic factors in comparison with hUC-MSC2. The data here, in addition to prove the heterogeneity of hUC-MSCs, confirmed that the stronger therapeutic effects of hUC-MSC1 were attributed to its stronger anti-apoptotic effect, paracrine of trophic factors and potential RPE cell differentiation capacity. Thus, the subset hUC-MSC1, not the other subset or the ungrouped hUC-MSCs should be used for effective treatment of RD. Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.org.

Receptivity of a Cryogenic Coaxial Gas-Liquid Jet to Acoustic Disturbances (Briefing Charts)

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-03-01

meas = Δt Δs Uc,meas 2/12/1 0 2/12/1 0 , i iio thc UUU      DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT A. Approved for public release; distribution unlimited...this point, dynamic pressures are approximately equal. Uc Uo – Uc Uc – Ui (Uo > Ui) 2/12/1 2/12/1 io iioo c UUU      St = Uc fnatD If St, D, Uc

Long-term outcome of patients with distal ulcerative colitis and inflammation of the appendiceal orifice.

PubMed

Naves, Juan E; Lorenzo-Zúñiga, Vicente; Marín, Laura; Mañosa, Míriam; Oller, Blanca; Moreno, Vicente; Zabana, Yamile; Boix, Jaume; Cabré, Eduard; Domènech, Eugeni

2011-12-01

Skip inflammation of the appendiceal orifice has been described in distal UC (UC-IAO) but long-term clinical outcomes are poorly established. Our aim was to evaluate the long-term clinical outcomes of UC-IAO as compared to classic distal UC. Patients with UC-IAO were identified from the local IBD database. Disease outcome and therapeutic requirements during follow-up were accurately collected, and compared with a control group of patients with distal UC without peri-appendiceal involvement matched by disease extent (proctitis/distal), smoking habit, and date and age at diagnosis. Fourteen UC patients were found to have UC-IAO, most of them with initial extent of UC limited to the rectum. All patients were initially managed with mesalazine administered orally (28.5%), topically (28.5%), or in combination (43%). After a median follow-up of 78 months (interquartile range--IQR 45-123) most UC-IAO patients were successfully managed with oral and/or topical aminosalicylates. Only one of them developed proximal disease progression. As compared to controls, no differences in clinical outcomes or therapeutic requirements were found. Patients with UC-IAO tend to present a mild course, with a low probability to develop proximal progression of disease extent or to require immunosuppressive therapy or colectomy.

Receptivity of a Cryogenic Coaxial Liquid Jet to Acoustic Disturbances

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-05-21

i iio thc UUU DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT A. Approved for public release; distribution unlimited. PA Clearance 14208 12Place Proper DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT...dynamic pressures are approximately equal. Uc Uo – Uc Uc – Ui (Uo > Ui) 2/12/1 2/12/1 io iioo c UUU St = Uc fnatD If St, D, Uc are held constant then

Ulcerative colitis-associated colorectal cancer

PubMed Central

Yashiro, Masakazu

2014-01-01

The association between ulcerative colitis (UC) and colorectal cancer (CRC) has been acknowledged. One of the most serious and life threatening consequences of UC is the development of CRC (UC-CRC). UC-CRC patients are younger, more frequently have multiple cancerous lesions, and histologically show mucinous or signet ring cell carcinomas. The risk of CRC begins to increase 8 or 10 years after the diagnosis of UC. Risk factors for CRC with UC patients include young age at diagnosis, longer duration, greater anatomical extent of colonic involvement, the degree of inflammation, family history of CRC, and presence of primary sclerosing cholangitis. CRC on the ground of UC develop from non-dysplastic mucosa to indefinite dysplasia, low-grade dysplasia, high-grade dysplasia and finally to invasive adenocarcinoma. Colonoscopy surveillance programs are recommended to reduce the risk of CRC and mortality in UC. Genetic alterations might play a role in the development of UC-CRC. 5-aminosalicylates might represent a favorable therapeutic option for chemoprevention of CRC. PMID:25469007

Invasive urothelial carcinoma exhibiting basal cell immunohistochemical markers: A variant of urothelial carcinoma associated with aggressive features.

PubMed

Mai, Kien T; Truong, Luan D; Ball, Christopher G; Williams, Phillip; Flood, Trevor A; Belanger, Eric C

2015-08-01

We characterize invasive urothelial carcinoma (UC) exhibiting urothelial basal cell immunohistochemical markers. Consecutive invasive UCs were immunostained with CK20 and urothelial basal cell markers, cytokeratin 5 (CK5)/CD44. Immunostaining for CK5 and CD44 was scored as follows: positive for staining of more than 25% thickness of the epithelial nest or epithelium and low for lesser immunoreactivity. Invasive urothelial carcinoma (UC) exhibiting positive CK5/CD44 staining was designated as basal-like UC (BUC). In this study, of 251 invasive UC (pT1 in 57% and pT2-4 in 43%), BUC accounted for 40% of cases (accounting for most pT2-4 UC) and often presented as non-papillary UC without previous history of UC. In addition, BUC exhibited uniform nuclei with lesser degree of atypia than non BUC and decreased or negative cytokeratin 20 reactivity. Nested and microcystic variants of UC immunohistochemically stained as BUCs. Invasive non-BUCs were often papillary with marked cytologic atypia and pleomorphism, and accounted for most pT1 UC. The rates of perivesical invasion, lymph node and distant metastases were higher for BUC than non-BUC. All nine cases with absent/minimal residual in situ UC in 102 radical cystectomy specimens were from invasive non-BUC. BUC is distinguished from non-BUC due to this aggressive behavior, distinct immunohistochemical profile, and predominant non-papillary architecture. Our findings are consistent with recent studies identifying a subtype of muscle-invasive UC with molecular expression of basal cell and luminal cell molecular profiles. Our study further supports categorizing invasive UCs into these subtypes with different biological behaviors, possibly contributing to better therapeutic strategies. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

The homing of human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells and the subsequent modulation of macrophage polarization in type 2 diabetic mice.

PubMed

Yin, Yaqi; Hao, Haojie; Cheng, Yu; Gao, Jieqing; Liu, Jiejie; Xie, Zongyan; Zhang, Qi; Zang, Li; Han, Weidong; Mu, Yiming

2018-07-01

Umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs), with both immunomodulatory and pro-regenerative properties, are promising for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). As efficient cell therapy largely relies on appropriate homing to target tissues, knowing where and to what extent injected UC-MSCs have homed is critically important. However, bio-distribution data for UC-MSCs in T2DM subjects are extremely limited. Beneficial effects of UC-MSCs on T2DM subjects are associated with increased M2 macrophages, but no systemic evaluation of M2 macrophages has been performed in T2DM individuals. In this study, we treated T2DM mice with CM-Dil-labelled UC-MSCs. UC-MSC infusion not only exerted anti-diabetic effects but also alleviated dyslipidemia and improved liver function in T2DM mice. To compare UC-MSC migration between T2DM and normal subjects, a collection of normal mice also received UC-MSC transplantation. UC-MSCs homed to the lung, liver and spleen in both normal and T2DM recipients. Specifically, the spleen harbored the largest number of UC-MSCs. Unlike normal mice, a certain number of UC-MSCs also homed to pancreatic islets in T2DM mice, which suggested that UC-MSC homing may be closely related to tissue damage. Moreover, the number of M2 macrophages in the islets, liver, fat and muscle significantly increased after UC-MSC infusion, which implied a strong link between the increased M2 macrophages and the improved condition in T2DM mice. Additionally, an M2 macrophage increase was also observed in the spleen, suggesting that UC-MSCs might exert systemic effects in T2DM individuals by modulating macrophages in immune organs. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Comprehensive gene expression analysis of canine invasive urothelial bladder carcinoma by RNA-Seq.

PubMed

Maeda, Shingo; Tomiyasu, Hirotaka; Tsuboi, Masaya; Inoue, Akiko; Ishihara, Genki; Uchikai, Takao; Chambers, James K; Uchida, Kazuyuki; Yonezawa, Tomohiro; Matsuki, Naoaki

2018-04-27

Invasive urothelial carcinoma (iUC) is a major cause of death in humans, and approximately 165,000 individuals succumb to this cancer annually worldwide. Comparative oncology using relevant animal models is necessary to improve our understanding of progression, diagnosis, and treatment of iUC. Companion canines are a preferred animal model of iUC due to spontaneous tumor development and similarity to human disease in terms of histopathology, metastatic behavior, and treatment response. However, the comprehensive molecular characterization of canine iUC is not well documented. In this study, we performed transcriptome analysis of tissue samples from canine iUC and normal bladders using an RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) approach to identify key molecular pathways in canine iUC. Total RNA was extracted from bladder tissues of 11 dogs with iUC and five healthy dogs, and RNA-Seq was conducted. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) was used to assign differentially expressed genes to known upstream regulators and functional networks. Differential gene expression analysis of the RNA-Seq data revealed 2531 differentially expressed genes, comprising 1007 upregulated and 1524 downregulated genes, in canine iUC. IPA revealed that the most activated upstream regulator was PTGER2 (encoding the prostaglandin E 2 receptor EP2), which is consistent with the therapeutic efficiency of cyclooxygenase inhibitors in canine iUC. Similar to human iUC, canine iUC exhibited upregulated ERBB2 and downregulated TP53 pathways. Biological functions associated with cancer, cell proliferation, and leukocyte migration were predicted to be activated, while muscle functions were predicted to be inhibited, indicating muscle-invasive tumor property. Our data confirmed similarities in gene expression patterns between canine and human iUC and identified potential therapeutic targets (PTGER2, ERBB2, CCND1, Vegf, and EGFR), suggesting the value of naturally occurring canine iUC as a relevant animal model for human iUC.

Umbilical Cord-derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Instruct Monocytes Towards an IL10-producing Phenotype by Secreting IL6 and HGF

PubMed Central

Deng, Yinan; Zhang, Yingcai; Ye, Linsen; Zhang, Tong; Cheng, Jintao; Chen, Guihua; Zhang, Qi; Yang, Yang

2016-01-01

Human UC-MSCs are regarded as an attractive alternative to BM-MSCs for clinical applications due to their easy preparation, higher proliferation and lower immunogenicity. However, the mechanisms underlying immune suppression by UC-MSCs are still unclear. We studied the mechanism of inhibition by UC-MSCs during the differentiation of monocytes into DCs and focused on the specific source and the role of the involved cytokines. We found that UC-MSCs suppressed monocyte differentiation into DCs and instructed monocytes towards other cell types, with clear decreases in the expression of co-stimulatory molecules, in the secretion of inflammatory factors and in allostimulatory capacity. IL6, HGF and IL10 might be involved in this process because they were detected at higher levels in a coculture system. UC-MSCs produce IL-6 and HGF, and neutralization of IL-6 and HGF reversed the suppressive effect of UC-MSCs. IL10 was not produced by UC-MSCs but was exclusively produced by monocytes after exposure to UC-MSCs, IL-6 or HGF. In summary, we found that the UC-MSC-mediated inhibitory effect was dependent on IL6 and HGF secreted by UC-MSCs and that this effect induced monocyte-derived cells to produce IL10, which might indirectly strengthen the suppressive effect of UC-MSCs. PMID:27917866

Umbilical Cord-derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Instruct Monocytes Towards an IL10-producing Phenotype by Secreting IL6 and HGF.

PubMed

Deng, Yinan; Zhang, Yingcai; Ye, Linsen; Zhang, Tong; Cheng, Jintao; Chen, Guihua; Zhang, Qi; Yang, Yang

2016-12-05

Human UC-MSCs are regarded as an attractive alternative to BM-MSCs for clinical applications due to their easy preparation, higher proliferation and lower immunogenicity. However, the mechanisms underlying immune suppression by UC-MSCs are still unclear. We studied the mechanism of inhibition by UC-MSCs during the differentiation of monocytes into DCs and focused on the specific source and the role of the involved cytokines. We found that UC-MSCs suppressed monocyte differentiation into DCs and instructed monocytes towards other cell types, with clear decreases in the expression of co-stimulatory molecules, in the secretion of inflammatory factors and in allostimulatory capacity. IL6, HGF and IL10 might be involved in this process because they were detected at higher levels in a coculture system. UC-MSCs produce IL-6 and HGF, and neutralization of IL-6 and HGF reversed the suppressive effect of UC-MSCs. IL10 was not produced by UC-MSCs but was exclusively produced by monocytes after exposure to UC-MSCs, IL-6 or HGF. In summary, we found that the UC-MSC-mediated inhibitory effect was dependent on IL6 and HGF secreted by UC-MSCs and that this effect induced monocyte-derived cells to produce IL10, which might indirectly strengthen the suppressive effect of UC-MSCs.

A brief history of the Bioengineering Institute of California and the UC System-wide Symposia.

PubMed

Chien, Shu

2011-04-01

The plan to establish a Multicampus Research Unit (MRU) on Bioengineering in the University of California (UC) System started in August 1999. The cooperative efforts of the UC campuses led to the formal establishment of the Bioengineering Institute of California (BIC) in October 2003. Three years prior to the BIC establishment, the System-wide Annual Bioengineering Symposium was started at UC Davis. The Symposia were then hosted sequentially by UC Santa Barbara, UC Berkeley, UCSD, UC Santa Cruz, UC Irvine, UCSF, UCLA, and UC Riverside, with the completion of the first cycle of a decade in the newest campus of UC Merced in 2009. The second cycle began in 2010 with the Symposium returning again to UC Davis. Each campus hosted a wonderful Symposium, with the active participation of students and faculty from all campuses, with the motto of "Ten campuses united as one, learning and growing together." These Symposia have contributed significantly to the collaborative research and training of students and young scientists in bioengineering, as well as fruitful interactions with industry and government agencies, which have provided strong support for these valuable meetings. The BIC will endeavor to further enhance these efforts by fostering research collaborations and joint education and training activities, with the ultimate goal of advancing bioengineering for the improvement of human health and wellbeing.

[Basic biological characteristics of mesenchymal stem cells derived from bone marrow and human umbilical cord].

PubMed

Han, Zhen-Xia; Shi, Qing; Wang, Da-Kun; Li, Dong; Lyu, Ming

2013-10-01

Bone marrow (BM) and umbilical cord (UC) are the major sources of mesenchymal stem cells for therapeutics. This study was aimed to compare the basic biologic characteristics of bone marrow-derived and umbilical cord derived-mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSC and UC-MSC) and their immunosuppressive capability in vitro. The BM-MSC and UC-MSC were cultured and amplified under same culture condition. The growth kinetics, phenotypic characteristics and immunosuppressive effects of UC-MSC were compared with those of BM-MSC.Gene chip was used to compare the genes differentially expressed between UC-MSC and BM-MSC. The results showed that UC-MSC shared most of the characteristics of BM-MSC, including morphology and immunophenotype. UC-MSC could be ready expanded for 30 passages without visible changes. However, BM-MSC grew slowly, and the mean doubling time increased notably after passage 6. Both UC-MSC and BM-MSC could inhibit phytohemagglutinin-stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cell proliferation, in which BM-MSC mediated more inhibitory effect. Compared with UC-MSC, BM-MSC expressed more genes associated with immune response. Meanwhile, the categories of up-regulated genes in UC-MSC were concentrated in organ development and growth. It is concluded that the higher proliferation capacity, low human leukocyte antigen-ABC expression and immunosuppression make UC-MSC an excellent alternative to BM-MSC for cell therapy. The differences between BM-MSC and UC-MSC gene expressions can be explained by their ontogeny and different microenvironment in origin tissue. These differences can affect their efficacy in different therapeutic applications.

The Production of Corporate Research to Manufacture Doubt About the Health Hazards of Products: An Overview of the Exponent Bakelite® Simulation Study.

PubMed

Egilman, David

2018-01-01

Although corporate sponsorship of research does not necessarily lead to biased results, in some industries, it has resulted in the publication of inaccurate and misleading data. Some companies have hired scientific consulting firms to retrospectively calculate exposures to hazardous products during use that are no longer manufactured or sold. As an example, this paper reviews one such study-a litigation-generated study of Union Carbide Corporation's asbestos-containing product, Bakelite®. This analysis is based on previously secret documents, produced as a result of litigation. The study generated asbestos fiber exposure measurements which resulted in underestimates of actual exposures to create doubt about the hazards associated with manufacture and manipulation of Bakelite®.

Mathematics and statistics research progress report, period ending June 30, 1983

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

Beauchamp, J. J.; Denson, M. V.; Heath, M. T.

1983-08-01

This report is the twenty-sixth in the series of progress reports of Mathematics and Statistics Research of the Computer Sciences organization, Union Carbide Corporation Nuclear Division. Part A records research progress in analysis of large data sets, applied analysis, biometrics research, computational statistics, materials science applications, numerical linear algebra, and risk analysis. Collaboration and consulting with others throughout the Oak Ridge Department of Energy complex are recorded in Part B. Included are sections on biological sciences, energy, engineering, environmental sciences, health and safety, and safeguards. Part C summarizes the various educational activities in which the staff was engaged. Part Dmore » lists the presentations of research results, and Part E records the staff's other professional activities during the report period.« less

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

Not Available

The Reich Farm site is located in Dover Township, Ocean County, New Jersey. The site is currently owned by Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Reich. In August 1971, they rented a portion of their land to Mr. Nicholas Fernicola for temporary storage of used 55-gallon drums. Most of the drums had Union Carbide Corporation (UCC) markings on them, with labels reading 'tar pitch,' 'lab waste solvent,' 'blend of resin and oil,' and 'solvent wash of process stream' among others. The site first came to the attention of the New Jersey Superior Court when the Reichs filed suit against Mr. Fernicola andmore » UCC. The primary contaminants of concern affecting the ground water and soils are VOCs including 1,1,1-trichloroethane (TCA), TCE, PCE, and semi-volatile organics compounds (SVOCs). The selected remedial action for the site is included.« less

A transcribed ultraconserved noncoding RNA, Uc.173, is a key molecule for the inhibition of lead-induced neuronal apoptosis

PubMed Central

Chen, Lijian; Liu, Meiling; Zhang, Nan; Zhang, Li; Luo, Yuanwei; Liu, Zhenzhong; Dai, Lijun; Jiang, Yiguo

2016-01-01

As a common toxic metal, lead has significant neurotoxicity to brain development. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) function in multiple biological processes. However, whether lncRNAs are involved in lead-induced neurotoxicity remains unclear. Uc.173 is a lncRNA from a transcribed ultra-conservative region (T-UCR) of human, mouse and rat genomes. We established a lead-induced nerve injury mouse model. It showed the levels of Uc.173 decreased significantly in hippocampus tissue and serum of the model. We further tested the expression of Uc.173 in serum of lead-exposed children, which also showed a tendency to decrease. To explore the effects of Uc.173 on lead-induced nerve injury, we overexpressed Uc.173 in an N2a mouse nerve cell line and found Uc.173 had an inhibitory effect on lead-induced apoptosis of N2a. To investigate the molecular mechanisms of Uc.173 in apoptosis associated with lead-induced nerve injury, we predicted the target microRNAs of Uc.173 by using miRanda, TargetScan and RegRNA. After performing quantitative real-time PCR and bioinformatics analysis, we showed Uc.173 might inter-regulate with miR-291a-3p in lead-induced apoptosis and regulate apoptosis-associated genes. Our study suggests Uc.173 significantly inhibits the apoptosis of nerve cells, which may be mediated by inter-regulation with miRNAs in lead-induced nerve injury. PMID:26683706

Pooled Resequencing of 122 Ulcerative Colitis Genes in a Large Dutch Cohort Suggests Population-Specific Associations of Rare Variants in MUC2.

PubMed

Visschedijk, Marijn C; Alberts, Rudi; Mucha, Soren; Deelen, Patrick; de Jong, Dirk J; Pierik, Marieke; Spekhorst, Lieke M; Imhann, Floris; van der Meulen-de Jong, Andrea E; van der Woude, C Janneke; van Bodegraven, Adriaan A; Oldenburg, Bas; Löwenberg, Mark; Dijkstra, Gerard; Ellinghaus, David; Schreiber, Stefan; Wijmenga, Cisca; Rivas, Manuel A; Franke, Andre; van Diemen, Cleo C; Weersma, Rinse K

2016-01-01

Genome-wide association studies have revealed several common genetic risk variants for ulcerative colitis (UC). However, little is known about the contribution of rare, large effect genetic variants to UC susceptibility. In this study, we performed a deep targeted re-sequencing of 122 genes in Dutch UC patients in order to investigate the contribution of rare variants to the genetic susceptibility to UC. The selection of genes consists of 111 established human UC susceptibility genes and 11 genes that lead to spontaneous colitis when knocked-out in mice. In addition, we sequenced the promoter regions of 45 genes where known variants exert cis-eQTL-effects. Targeted pooled re-sequencing was performed on DNA of 790 Dutch UC cases. The Genome of the Netherlands project provided sequence data of 500 healthy controls. After quality control and prioritization based on allele frequency and pathogenicity probability, follow-up genotyping of 171 rare variants was performed on 1021 Dutch UC cases and 1166 Dutch controls. Single-variant association and gene-based analyses identified an association of rare variants in the MUC2 gene with UC. The associated variants in the Dutch population could not be replicated in a German replication cohort (1026 UC cases, 3532 controls). In conclusion, this study has identified a putative role for MUC2 on UC susceptibility in the Dutch population and suggests a population-specific contribution of rare variants to UC.

Reduced risk of UC in families affected by appendicitis: a Danish national cohort study.

PubMed

Nyboe Andersen, Nynne; Gørtz, Sanne; Frisch, Morten; Jess, Tine

2017-08-01

The possible aetiological link between appendicitis and UC remains unclear. In order to investigate the hereditary component of the association, we studied the risk of UC in family members of individuals with appendicitis. A cohort of 7.1 million individuals was established by linkage of national registers in Denmark with data on kinship and diagnoses of appendicitis and UC. Poisson regression models were used to calculate first hospital contact rate ratios (RR) for UC with 95% CIs between individuals with or without relatives with a history of appendicitis. During 174 million person-years of follow-up between 1977 and 2011, a total of 190 004 cohort members developed appendicitis and 45 202 developed UC. Individuals having a first-degree relative with appendicitis before age 20 years had significantly reduced risk of UC (RR 0.90; 95% CI 0.86 to 0.95); this association was stronger in individuals with a family predisposition to UC (RR 0.66; 95% CI 0.51 to 0.83). Individuals with a first-degree relative diagnosed with appendicitis before age 20 years are at reduced risk of UC, particularly when there is a family predisposition to UC. Our findings question a previously hypothesised direct protective influence of appendicitis on inflammation of the large bowel. Rather, genetic or environmental factors linked to an increased risk of appendicitis while being protective against UC may explain the repeatedly reported reduced relative risk of UC in individuals with a history of appendicitis. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/.

Efficacy and safety of glycosylated undenatured type-II collagen (UC-II) in therapy of arthritic dogs.

PubMed

Deparle, L A; Gupta, R C; Canerdy, T D; Goad, J T; D'Altilio, M; Bagchi, M; Bagchi, D

2005-08-01

DeParle L. A., Gupta R. C., Canerdy T. D., Goad J. T., D'Altilio M., Bagchi M., Bagchi D. Efficacy and safety of glycosylated undenatured type-II collagen (UC-II) in therapy of arthritic dogs. J. vet. Pharmacol. Therap.28, 385-390. In large breed dogs, arthritis is very common because of obesity, injury, aging, immune disorder, or genetic predispositions. This study was therefore undertaken to evaluate clinical efficacy and safety of undenatured type-II collagen (UC-II) in obese-arthritic dogs. Fifteen dogs in three groups received either no UC-II (Group I) or UC-II with 1 mg/day (Group II) or 10 mg/day (Group III) for 90 days. Lameness and pain were measured on a weekly basis for 120 days (90 days treatment plus 30 days post-treatment). Blood samples were assayed for creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (markers of renal injury); and alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase (evidence of hepatic injury). Dogs receiving 1 mg or 10 mg UC-II/day for 90 days showed significant declines in overall pain and pain during limb manipulation and lameness after physical exertion, with 10 mg showed greater improvement. At either dose of UC-II, no adverse effects were noted and no significant changes were noted in serum chemistry, suggesting that UC-II was well tolerated. In addition, dogs receiving UC-II for 90 days showed increased physical activity level. Following UC-II withdrawal for a period of 30 days, all dogs experienced a relapse of overall pain, exercise-associated lameness, and pain upon limb manipulation. These results suggest that daily treatment of arthritic dogs with UC-II ameliorates signs and symptoms of arthritis, and UC-II is well tolerated as no adverse effects were noted.

Early Transcriptomic Changes in the Ileal Pouch Provide Insight into the Molecular Pathogenesis of Pouchitis and Ulcerative Colitis

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

Huang, Yong; Dalal, Sushila; Antonopoulos, Dionysios

Background: Ulcerative colitis (UC) only involves the colonic mucosa. Yet, nearly 50% of patients with UC who undergo total proctocolectomy with ileal pouch anal anastomosis develop UC-like inflammation of the ileal pouch (pouchitis). By contrast, patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) with ileal pouch anal anastomosis develop pouchitis far less frequently. We hypothesized that pathogenic events associated with the development of UC are recapitulated by colonic-metaplastic transcriptomic reprogramming of the UC pouch. Methods: We prospectively sampled pouch and prepouch ileum mucosal biopsies in patients with UC with ileal pouch anal anastomosis 4, 8, and 12 months after their pouch wasmore » in continuity. Mucosal samples were also obtained from patients with FAP. Transcriptional profiles of the UC and FAP pouch and prepouch ileum were investigated via RNA sequencing and compared with data from a previously published microarray study. Results: Unlike patients with FAP, subjects with UC exhibited a large set of differentially expressed genes between the pouch and prepouch ileum as early as 4 months after pouch functionalization. Functional pathway analysis of differentially expressed genes in the UC pouch revealed an enhanced state of immune/inflammatory response and extracellular matrix remodeling. Moreover, >70% of differentially expressed genes mapped to published inflammatory bowel diseases microarray data sets displayed directional changes consistent with active UC but not with Crohn's disease. Conclusions: The UC pouch, well before histologic inflammation, already displays a systems-level gain of colon-associated genes and loss of ileum-associated genes. Patients with UC exhibit a unique transcriptomic response to ileal pouch creation that can be observed well before disease and may in part explain their susceptibility to the development of pouchitis.« less

Evolution of the sapphire industry: Rubicon Technology and Gavish

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harris, Daniel C.

2009-05-01

A. Verneuil developed flame fusion to grow sapphire and ruby on a commercial scale around 1890. Flame fusion was further perfected by Popov in the Soviet Union in the 1930s and by Linde Air Products Co. in the U.S. during World War II. Union Carbide Corp., the successor to Linde, developed Czochralski crystal growth for sapphire laser materials in the 1960s. Stepanov in the Soviet Union published his sapphire growth method in 1959. Edge-Defined Film-Fed Growth (EFG), which is similar to the Stepanov method, was developed by H. Labelle in the U. S. in the 1960s and 1970s. The Heat Exchanger Method (HEM), invented by F. Schmid and D. Viechnicki in 1967 was commercialized in the 1970s. Gradient solidification was invented in Israel in the 1970s by J. Makovsky. The Horizontal Directional Solidification Method (HDSM) proposed by Kh. S. Bagdasorov in the Soviet Union in the 1960s was further developed at the Institute for Single Crystals in Ukraine. Kyropoulos growth of sapphire, known as GOI crystal growth in the Soviet Union, was developed by M. Musatov at the State Optical Institute in St. Petersburg in the 1970s and 1980s. At the Institute for Single Crystals in Ukraine, E. Dobrovinskaya characterized Verneuil, Czochralsky, Bagdasarov, and GOI sapphire. In 1995, she emigrated to the United States and joined S&R Rubicon, founded near Chicago by R. Mogilevsky initially to import sapphire and ruby. Mogilevsky began producing sapphire by the Kyropoulos method in 1999. In 2000 the company name was changed to Rubicon Technology. Today, Dobrovinskaya is Chief Scientist and Rubicon produces high quality Kyropoulos sapphire substrates for solid-state lighting. In 1995, H. Branover of Ben Gurion University and a sole investor founded Gavish, which is Hebrew for "crystal." They invited another veteran of the Ukrainian Institute for Single Crystals, V. Pishchik, to become Chief Scientist. Under Pishchik's technical leadership and J. Sragowicz's business leadership, Gavish now makes finished products for the semiconductor and medical industries from HDSM, Stepanov, and Kyropoulos sapphire.

Takayasu arteritis and ulcerative colitis: high rate of co-occurrence and genetic overlap.

PubMed

Terao, Chikashi; Matsumura, Takayoshi; Yoshifuji, Hajime; Kirino, Yohei; Maejima, Yasuhiro; Nakaoka, Yoshikazu; Takahashi, Meiko; Amiya, Eisuke; Tamura, Natsuko; Nakajima, Toshiki; Origuchi, Tomoki; Horita, Tetsuya; Matsukura, Mitsuru; Kochi, Yuta; Ogimoto, Akiyoshi; Yamamoto, Motohisa; Takahashi, Hiroki; Nakayamada, Shingo; Saito, Kazuyoshi; Wada, Yoko; Narita, Ichiei; Kawaguchi, Yasushi; Yamanaka, Hisashi; Ohmura, Koichiro; Atsumi, Tatsuya; Tanemoto, Kazuo; Miyata, Tetsuro; Kuwana, Masataka; Komuro, Issei; Tabara, Yasuharu; Ueda, Atsuhisa; Isobe, Mitsuaki; Mimori, Tsuneyo; Matsuda, Fumihiko

2015-05-01

Takayasu arteritis (TAK) is a systemic vasculitis affecting large arteries and large branches of the aorta. Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a prevalent autoimmune colitis. Since TAK and UC share HLA-B*52:01 and IL12B as genetic determinants, and since there are case reports of the co-occurrence of these diseases, we hypothesized that UC is a common complication of TAK. We undertook this study to perform a large-scale analysis of TAK, both to evaluate the prevalence of concurrent cases of TAK and UC and to identify and estimate susceptibility genes shared between the 2 diseases. We analyzed a total of 470 consecutive patients with TAK from 14 institutions. We characterized patients with TAK and UC by analyzing clinical manifestations and genetic components. Genetic overlapping of TAK and UC was evaluated with the use of UC susceptibility single-nucleotide polymorphisms by comparing risk directions and effect sizes between susceptibility to the 2 diseases. Thirty of 470 patients with TAK had UC (6.4% [95% confidence interval 4.3-9.0]). This percentage was strikingly higher than that expected from the prevalence of UC in Japan. Patients with TAK complicated with UC developed TAK at an earlier stage of life (P = 0.0070) and showed significant enrichment of HLA-B*52:01 compared to TAK patients without UC (P = 1.0 × 10(-5) ) (odds ratio 12.14 [95% confidence interval 2.96-107.23]). The 110 non-HLA markers of susceptibility to UC significantly displayed common risk directions with susceptibility to TAK (P = 0.0054) and showed significant departure of permutation P values from expected P values (P < 1.0 × 10(-10) ). UC is a major complication of TAK. These 2 diseases share a significant proportion of their genetic background, and HLA-B*52:01 may play a central role in their co-occurrence. © 2015, American College of Rheumatology.

Metallic conductance at the interface of tri-color titanate superlattices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kareev, M.; Cao, Yanwei; Liu, Xiaoran; Middey, S.; Meyers, D.; Chakhalian, J.

2013-12-01

Ultra-thin tri-color (tri-layer) titanate superlattices ([3 u.c. LaTiO3/2 u.c. SrTiO3/3 u.c. YTiO3], u.c. = unit cells) were grown in a layer-by-layer way on single crystal TbScO3 (110) substrates by pulsed laser deposition. High sample quality and electronic structure were characterized by the combination of in-situ photoelectron and ex-situ structure and surface morphology probes. Temperature-dependent sheet resistance indicates the presence of metallic interfaces in both [3 u.c. LaTiO3/2 u.c. SrTiO3] bi-layers and all the tri-color structures, whereas a [3 u.c. YTiO3/2 u.c. SrTiO3] bi-layer shows insulating behavior. Considering that in the bulk YTiO3 is ferromagnetic below 30 K, the tri-color titanate superlattices provide an opportunity to induce tunable spin-polarization into the two-dimensional electron gas with Mott carriers.

Cytokine treatment optimises the immunotherapeutic effects of umbilical cord-derived MSC for treatment of inflammatory liver disease.

PubMed

de Witte, Samantha F H; Merino, Ana M; Franquesa, Marcella; Strini, Tanja; van Zoggel, Johanna A A; Korevaar, Sander S; Luk, Franka; Gargesha, Madhu; O'Flynn, Lisa; Roy, Debashish; Elliman, Steve J; Newsome, Philip N; Baan, Carla C; Hoogduijn, Martin J

2017-06-08

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) possess immunomodulatory properties and low immunogenicity, both crucial properties for their development into an effective cellular immunotherapy. They have shown benefit in clinical trials targeting liver diseases; however the efficacy of MSC therapy will benefit from improvement of the immunomodulatory and immunogenic properties of MSC. MSC derived from human umbilical cords (ucMSC) were treated for 3 days in vitro with various inflammatory factors, interleukins, vitamins and serum deprivation. Their immunogenicity and immunomodulatory capacity were examined by gene-expression analysis, surface-marker expressions, IDO activity, PGE 2 secretion and inhibition of T cell proliferation and IFNγ production. Furthermore, their activation of NK cell cytotoxicity was investigated via CD107a expression on NK cells. The immunomodulatory capacity, biodistribution and survival of pre-treated ucMSC were investigated in a CCl 4 -induced liver disease mouse model. In addition, capacity of pre-treated MSC to ameliorate liver inflammation was examined in an ex vivo liver inflammation co-culture model. IFN-γ and a multiple cytokine cocktail (MC) consisting of IFN-γ, TGFβ and retinoic acid upregulated the expression of immunomodulatory factor PD-L1 and IDO activity. Subsequently, both treatments enhanced the capacity of ucMSC to inhibit CD4 and CD8 T cell proliferation and IFN-γ production. The susceptibility of ucMSC for NK cell lysis was decreased by IFN-β, TGFβ and MC treatment. In vivo, no immunomodulation was observed by the ucMSC. Four hours after intravenous infusion in mice with CCl 4 -induced inflammatory liver injury, the majority of ucMSC were trapped in the lungs. Rapid clearance of ucMSC(VitB 6 ), ucMSC(Starv + VitB 6 ) and ucMSC(MC) and altered bio-distribution of ucMSC(TGFβ) compared to untreated ucMSC was observed. In the ex vivo co-culture system with inflammatory liver slices ucMSC(MC) showed significantly enhanced modulatory capacity compared to untreated ucMSC. The present study demonstrates the responsiveness of ucMSC to in vitro optimisation treatment. The observed improvements in immunomodulatory capacity as well as immunogenicity after MC treatment may improve the efficacy of ucMSC as immunotherapy targeted towards liver inflammation.

Process for microwave sintering boron carbide

DOEpatents

Holcombe, C.E.; Morrow, M.S.

1993-10-12

A method of microwave sintering boron carbide comprises leaching boron carbide powder with an aqueous solution of nitric acid to form a leached boron carbide powder. The leached boron carbide powder is coated with a glassy carbon precursor to form a coated boron carbide powder. The coated boron carbide powder is consolidated in an enclosure of boron nitride particles coated with a layer of glassy carbon within a container for microwave heating to form an enclosed coated boron carbide powder. The enclosed coated boron carbide powder is sintered within the container for microwave heating with microwave energy.

Process for microwave sintering boron carbide

DOEpatents

Holcombe, Cressie E.; Morrow, Marvin S.

1993-01-01

A method of microwave sintering boron carbide comprises leaching boron carbide powder with an aqueous solution of nitric acid to form a leached boron carbide powder. The leached boron carbide powder is coated with a glassy carbon precursor to form a coated boron carbide powder. The coated boron carbide powder is consolidated in an enclosure of boron nitride particles coated with a layer of glassy carbon within a container for microwave heating to form an enclosed coated boron carbide powder. The enclosed coated boron carbide powder is sintered within the container for microwave heating with microwave energy.

Low resistance barrier layer for isolating, adhering, and passivating copper metal in semiconductor fabrication

DOEpatents

Weihs, Timothy P.; Barbee, Jr., Troy W.

2002-01-01

Cubic or metastable cubic refractory metal carbides act as barrier layers to isolate, adhere, and passivate copper in semiconductor fabrication. One or more barrier layers of the metal carbide are deposited in conjunction with copper metallizations to form a multilayer characterized by a cubic crystal structure with a strong (100) texture. Suitable barrier layer materials include refractory transition metal carbides such as vanadium carbide (VC), niobium carbide (NbC), tantalum carbide (TaC), chromium carbide (Cr.sub.3 C.sub.2), tungsten carbide (WC), and molybdenum carbide (MoC).

Gender dimorphism and lack of day/night variation or effects of energy deprivation on undercarboxylated osteocalcin levels in humans.

PubMed

Foo, Joo-Pin; Aronis, Konstantinos N; Chamberland, John P; Thakkar, Bindiya; Hamnvik, Ole-Petter; Brinkoetter, Mary; Zaichenko, Lesya; Mantzoros, Christos S

2013-12-01

Undercarboxylated osteocalcin (ucOC) is a bone marker with potent metabolic effects. Leptin regulates Esp gene expression and osteocalcin carboxylation in animal models. We aim to elucidate day/night patterns of ucOC levels, whether short-term and/or chronic energy deprivation alters ucOC levels, and whether leptin may mediate these changes in humans. Twelve healthy males and females were studied for 72 h in the fed state to study day/night pattern of ucOC. The six female subjects were also studied in a crossover interventional study in the fasting state for 72 h with administration of either placebo or metreleptin in physiological doses. Blood samples were obtained hourly from 0800 a.m. on day 3 until 0800 a.m. on day 4. In a separate study, eleven obese subjects who underwent bariatric surgery were followed for 24 weeks to examine the effects of postsurgery weight loss on ucOC levels. Males have higher ucOC levels compared to females. There is no day/night variation pattern of circulating ucOC in humans. Short-term and chronic energy deprivation or leptin administrations do not alter ucOC levels. The hypothesis that ucOC plays a role in energy homeostasis or of leptin in regulating ucOC in humans is not supported. Copyright © 2013 The Obesity Society.

Tn4556, a 6.8-kilobase-pair transposable element of Streptomyces fradiae.

PubMed Central

Chung, S T

1987-01-01

A 6.8-kilobase-pair (kbp) transposable element (Tn4556) was found in a neomycin-producing strain of Streptomyces fradiae. This element was first observed in two 30.3-kbp plasmids (pUC1123 and pUC1124) which arose when a thiostrepton resistance gene (1 kbp) was ligated with the BclI-2 fragment (22.5 kbp) that contains the origin of replication of phage SF1. The Tn4556 segment was deleted when these plasmids were transduced into another S. fradiae host with phage SF1. These deletion plasmids (pUC1210 and pUC1211) had copy numbers of less than 1 per chromosome and were unstable. In contrast, pUC1123 and pUC1124, with copy numbers of 12 to 15 per chromosome, respectively, were relatively stable. When pUC1210 and pUC1211 were reintroduced into S. fradiae by protoplast transformation, the Tn4556 element transposed again to the plasmids at numerous new locations in either of two orientations. A copy of Tn4556 was found in the S. fradiae chromosome by hybridization studies. It appears that Tn4556 originated from the chromosome, transposed into unstable pUC1210 and pUC1211, and made stable plasmids. A temperature-sensitive hybrid plasmid carrying a viomycin resistance derivative of Tn4556 (pMT660::Tn4556::vph) was constructed. When Streptomyces lividans UC8390 containing the hybrid plasmid was grown at 39 degrees C, Tn4556::vph (Tn4560) transposed to random positions in the host chromosome. Images PMID:2820925

Investigation of novel biomarkers for predicting the clinical course in patients with ulcerative colitis.

PubMed

Hamanaka, Shinsaku; Nakagawa, Tomoo; Hiwasa, Takaki; Ohta, Yuki; Kasamatsu, Shingo; Ishigami, Hideaki; Taida, Takashi; Okimoto, Kenichiro; Saito, Keiko; Maruoka, Daisuke; Matsumura, Tomoaki; Takizawa, Hirotaka; Kashiwado, Koichi; Kobayashi, Sohei; Matsushita, Kazuyuki; Matsubara, Hisahiro; Katsuno, Tatsuro; Arai, Makoto; Kato, Naoya

2018-06-05

The clinical course of ulcerative colitis (UC) is characterized by repeated episodes of relapse and remission. We hypothesized that biomarkers that help distinguish refractory UC patients who are in remission using strong anti-immunotherapy could contribute in preventing the overuse of corticosteroids for treatment. Here we clarified novel autoantibodies for UC patients in remission as clinical indicators to distinguish between refractory and non-refractory UC. Antigen proteins recognized by serum antibodies of patients with UC in remission were screened using the protein array method. To validate the results, AlphaLISA was used to analyze the serum antibody titers with candidate protein antigens. Serum samples from 101 healthy controls, 121 patients with UC, and 39 patients with Crohn's disease were analyzed. Of 66 candidate protein antigens screened by ProtoArray™, 6 were selected for this study. The serum titers of anti-poly ADP-ribose glycohydrolase (PARG), anti-transcription elongation factor A protein-like 1 (TCEAL1), and anti-proline-rich 13 (PRR13) antibodies were significantly higher in patients with UC than in healthy controls. Anti-PARG and anti-PRR13 antibody titers were significantly higher in patients with refractory UC than in patients with non-refractory UC. There were no significant differences in any antibody titer between the active and remission phases. The serum titers of anti-PARG, anti-TCEAL1, and anti-PRR13 antibodies were elevated in patients with UC. Anti-PARG and anti-PRR13 antibody titers may be novel clinical indicators for detecting refractory UC in patients in remission. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Prevention of urinary tract infections in palliative radiation for vertebral metastasis and spinal compression: A pilot study in 71 patients

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

Manas, Ana; Glaria, Luis; Pena, Carmen

2006-03-01

Purpose: To assess the impact of bladder instillations of hyaluronic acid (HA) on the prevalence of urinary tract infection (UTI) in patients receiving emergency radiotherapy for metastatic spinal cord compression. Methods and Materials: Patients were recruited consecutively at one center and assigned to usual care (UC) (n = 34, mean age 62.2 years) or UC with once-weekly HA instillation (UC + HA) (Cystistat: 40 mg in 50 mL phosphate-buffered saline) (n = 37; mean age, 63.1 years). All patients had an indwelling catheter and received radiotherapy. UTI status was assessed at baseline and during hospitalization. Results: At baseline, patient groupsmore » were comparable, except for the prevalence of UTI at baseline, which was 11.8% and 0% in the UC and UC + HA patients, respectively (p = 0.0477). During hospitalization, 76.5% (vs. 11.8% at baseline, p < 0.0001) of the UC patients had a UTI compared with 13.5% (vs. 0% at baseline, p = 0.0541) of the UC + HA patients (p < 0.0001). Both groups were hospitalized for similar periods (19.8 days [UC] vs. 18.5 days, p = 0.4769) and received equivalent radiotherapy sessions (4.6 [UC] vs. 5.8 sessions, p = 0.2368). Conclusions: Patients receiving UC + HA had a 5.7-fold decrease in UTI prevalence over the hospitalization period compared to UC patients, suggesting that bladder instillations of HA effectively prevent UTI in patients with indwelling catheters receiving radiotherapy for nerve compression.« less

Thermal Aspects of Using Alternative Nuclear Fuels in Supercritical Water-Cooled Reactors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grande, Lisa Christine

A SuperCritical Water-cooled Nuclear Reactor (SCWR) is a Generation IV concept currently being developed worldwide. Unique to this reactor type is the use of light-water coolant above its critical point. The current research presents a thermal-hydraulic analysis of a single fuel channel within a Pressure Tube (PT)-type SCWR with a single-reheat cycle. Since this reactor is in its early design phase many fuel-channel components are being investigated in various combinations. Analysis inputs are: steam cycle, Axial Heat Flux Profile (AHFP), fuel-bundle geometry, and thermophysical properties of reactor coolant, fuel sheath and fuel. Uniform and non-uniform AHFPs for average channel power were applied to a variety of alternative fuels (mixed oxide, thorium dioxide, uranium dicarbide, uranium nitride and uranium carbide) enclosed in an Inconel-600 43-element bundle. The results depict bulk-fluid, outer-sheath and fuel-centreline temperature profiles together with the Heat Transfer Coefficient (HTC) profiles along the heated length of fuel channel. The objective is to identify the best options in terms of fuel, sheath material and AHFPS in which the outer-sheath and fuel-centreline temperatures will be below the accepted temperature limits of 850°C and 1850°C respectively. The 43-element Inconel-600 fuel bundle is suitable for SCWR use as the sheath-temperature design limit of 850°C was maintained for all analyzed cases at average channel power. Thoria, UC2, UN and UC fuels for all AHFPs are acceptable since the maximum fuel-centreline temperature does not exceed the industry accepted limit of 1850°C. Conversely, the fuel-centreline temperature limit was exceeded for MOX at all AHFPs, and UO2 for both cosine and downstream-skewed cosine AHFPs. Therefore, fuel-bundle modifications are required for UO2 and MOX to be feasible nuclear fuels for SCWRs.

Preventing Overweight in USAF Personnel: Minimal Contract Program

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-05-01

Allowable Weight (MAW) and heavier. Effectiveness of MCBT + UC is compared to UC in terms of weight loss . Outcomes are being measured at 6 and 12 months...while those assigned to UC actually gained weight . Also, greater fise of the treatment website was associated with significantly more weight loss over...Effectiveness of MCBT + UC will be compared to UC in terms of weight loss . Outcomes are measured at 6 and 12 months. The ultimate goal of this study is to

Polarization-dependent extraordinary optical transmission from upconversion nanoparticles.

PubMed

Wang, Peng Hui; Salcedo, Walter J; Pichaandi, Jothirmayanantham; van Veggel, Frank C J M; Brolo, Alexandre G

2015-11-21

Enhanced upconversion (UC) emission was experimentally demonstrated using gold double antenna nanoparticles coupled to nanoslits in gold films. The transmitted red emission from UC ytterbium and erbium co-doped sodium yttrium fluoride (NaYF4:Yb(3+)/Er(3+)) nanoparticles (UC NPs) at ∼665 nm (excited with a 980 nm diode laser) was enhanced relative to the green emission at ∼550 nm. The relatively enhanced UC NP emission could be tuned by the different polarization-dependent extraordinary optical transmission modes coupled to the gold nanostructures. Finite-difference time-domain calculations suggest that the preferential enhanced UC emission is related to a combination of different surface plasmon mode excitation coupling to cavity Fabry-Perot interactions. A maximum UC enhancement of 6-fold was measured for nanoslit arrays in the absence of the double antennas. In the presence of the double nanoantennas inside the nanoslits, the UC enhancement was between 2- and 4-fold, depending on the experimental conditions.

Approach to cytomegalovirus infections in patients with ulcerative colitis

PubMed Central

Park, Sung Chul; Jeen, Yoon Mi; Jeen, Yoon Tae

2017-01-01

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) reactivation is common in patients with severe ulcerative colitis (UC), and may ref lect exacerbation of mucosal inf lammation and/or administration of immunosuppressants. The question of whether CMV is an active pathogen or ‘an innocent bystander’ in the exacerbation of UC remains controversial. Patients with UC exacerbated by reactivated CMV experience worse prognoses than those without CMV reactivation and antiviral therapy significantly reduces the need for colectomy in patients with severe UC and high-grade CMV infection, indicating that CMV plays a role in UC prognosis. Therefore, the CMV status of patients on immunosuppressants, particularly those with steroid-refractory or -dependent UC, should be tested. When CMV is detected, be performed based on should adequate treatment the extent of the viral load and the presence of certain clinical features including a large ulcer. Anti-tumor necrosis factor agents may be useful for treating CMV colitis complicating UC. PMID:28490715

The UAS control segment architecture: an overview

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gregory, Douglas A.; Batavia, Parag; Coats, Mark; Allport, Chris; Jennings, Ann; Ernst, Richard

2013-05-01

The Under Secretary of Defense (Acquisition, Technology and Logistics) directed the Services in 2009 to jointly develop and demonstrate a common architecture for command and control of Department of Defense (DoD) Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Groups 2 through 5. The UAS Control Segment (UCS) Architecture is an architecture framework for specifying and designing the softwareintensive capabilities of current and emerging UCS systems in the DoD inventory. The UCS Architecture is based on Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) principles that will be adopted by each of the Services as a common basis for acquiring, integrating, and extending the capabilities of the UAS Control Segment. The UAS Task Force established the UCS Working Group to develop and support the UCS Architecture. The Working Group currently has over three hundred members, and is open to qualified representatives from DoD-approved defense contractors, academia, and the Government. The UCS Architecture is currently at Release 2.2, with Release 3.0 planned for July 2013. This paper discusses the current and planned elements of the UCS Architecture, and related activities of the UCS Community of Interest.

Uncarboxylated matrix Gla protein (ucMGP) is associated with coronary artery calcification in haemodialysis patients.

PubMed

Cranenburg, Ellen C M; Brandenburg, Vincent M; Vermeer, Cees; Stenger, Melanie; Mühlenbruch, Georg; Mahnken, Andreas H; Gladziwa, Ulrich; Ketteler, Markus; Schurgers, Leon J

2009-02-01

Matrix gamma-carboxyglutamate (Gla) protein (MGP) is a potent local inhibitor of cardiovascular calcification and accumulates at areas of calcification in its uncarboxylated form (ucMGP). We previously found significantly lower circulating ucMGP levels in patients with a high vascular calcification burden. Here we report on the potential of circulating ucMGP to serve as a biomarker for vascular calcification in haemodialysis (HD) patients. Circulating ucMGP levels were measured with an ELISA-based assay in 40 HD patients who underwent multi-slice computed tomography (MSCT) scanning to quantify the extent of coronary artery calcification (CAC). The mean ucMGP level in HD patients (193 +/- 65 nM) was significantly lower as compared to apparently healthy subjects of the same age (441 +/- 97 nM; p < 0.001) and patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) without CAC (560 +/- 140 nM; p < 0.001). Additionally, ucMGP levels correlated inversely with CAC scores (r = -0.41; p = 0.009), and this correlation persisted after adjustment for age, dialysis vintage and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP). Since circulating ucMGP levels are significantly and inversely correlated with the extent of CAC in HD patients, ucMGP may become a tool for identifying HD patients with a high probability of cardiovascular calcification.

Desmocollin 2 is a new immunohistochemical marker indicative of squamous differentiation in urothelial carcinoma.

PubMed

Hayashi, Tetsutaro; Sentani, Kazuhiro; Oue, Naohide; Anami, Katsuhiro; Sakamoto, Naoya; Ohara, Shinya; Teishima, Jun; Noguchi, Tsuyoshi; Nakayama, Hirofumi; Taniyama, Kiyomi; Matsubara, Akio; Yasui, Wataru

2011-10-01

Urothelial carcinoma (UC) with squamous differentiation tends to present at higher stages than pure UC. To distinguish UC with squamous differentiation from pure UC, a sensitive and specific marker is needed. Desmocollin 2 (DSC2) is a protein localized in desmosomal junctions of stratified epithelium, but little is known about its biological significance in bladder cancer. We examined the utility of DSC2 as a diagnostic marker. We analysed the immunohistochemical characteristics of DSC2, and studied the relationship of DSC2 expression with the expression of the known markers uroplakin III (UPIII), cytokeratin (CK)7, CK20, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), and p53. DSC2 staining was detected in 24 of 25 (96%) cases of UC with squamous differentiation, but in none of 85 (0%) cases of pure UC. DSC2 staining was detected only in areas of squamous differentiation. DSC2 expression was mutually exclusive of UPIII expression, and was correlated with EGFR expression. Furthermore, DSC2 expression was correlated with higher stage (P = 0.0314) and poor prognosis (P = 0.0477). DSC2 staining offers high sensitivity (96%) and high specificity (100%) for the detection of squamous differentiation in UC. DSC2 is a useful immunohistochemical marker for separation of UC with squamous differentiation from pure UC. 2011 Blackwell Publishing Limited.

Comparison of particle morphology between commercial- and research-grade calcium hydroxide in endodontics.

PubMed

Komabayashi, Takashi; Ahn, Chul; Spears, Robert; Zhu, Qiang

2014-09-01

Ca(OH)2 aqueous slurry is widely used as an inter-appointment antimicrobial dressing in root canal treatment. The aim of this study was to quantify the particle size and shape of commercial-grade UltraCal XS (UC) and to compare it with that of research-grade Ca(OH)2 (RG) using a flow particle image analyzer (FPIA). The morphology and penetration inside the dentin tubules of the UC and RG particles were examined using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). UC and RG (10 mg) were mixed with 15 mL of alcohol, and were sonicated. Five milliliters of the dispersion was subjected to FPIA, and particle length, width, perimeter and aspect ratio were analyzed. In addition, UC paste and RG aqueous slurry were agitated on dentin discs and were prepared for SEM examination. There were significant differences between UC and RG with regard to the frequency of different length groups (P < 0.0001). UC contained smaller particles than RG (P < 0.0001). Under SEM, the agitated UC and RG particles occluded the opening of dentin tubules and penetrated inside the dentin tubules. The size of UC particles is smaller than those of RG. Both UC and RG particles were able to penetrate into open dentin tubules.

Comparison of particle morphology between commercial- and research-grade calcium hydroxide in endodontics

PubMed Central

Komabayashi, Takashi; Ahn, Chul; Spears, Robert; Zhu, Qiang

2014-01-01

Ca(OH)2 aqueous slurry is widely used as an inter-appointment antimicrobial dressing in root canal treatment. The aim of this study was to quantify the particle size and shape of commercial-grade UltraCal XS (UC) and to compare it with that of research-grade Ca(OH)2 (RG) using a flow particle image analyzer (FPIA). The morphology and penetration inside the dentin tubules of the UC and RG particles were examined using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). UC and RG (10 mg) were mixed with 15 mL of alcohol, and were sonicated. Five milliliters of the dispersion was subjected to FPIA, and particle length, width, perimeter and aspect ratio were analyzed. In addition, UC paste and RG aqueous slurry were agitated on dentin discs and were prepared for SEM examination. There were significant differences between UC and RG with regard to the frequency of different length groups (P < 0.0001). UC contained smaller particles than RG (P < 0.0001). Under SEM, the agitated UC and RG particles occluded the opening of dentin tubules and penetrated inside the dentin tubules. The size of UC particles is smaller than those of RG. Both UC and RG particles were able to penetrate into open dentin tubules. PMID:25231145

A prospective audit on the effect of training and educational workshops on the incidence of urethral catheterization injuries

PubMed Central

Bhatt, Nikita R.; Davis, Niall F.; Quinlan, Mark R.; Flynn, Robert J.; McDermott, T.E.D.; Manecksha, Rustom P.; Thornhill, John A.

2017-01-01

Introduction The incidence of iatrogenic urethral catheterization (UC) injuries is approximately 0.3%. Resultant complications are associated with patient morbidity and unnecessary healthcare costs. Our aim was to investigate whether educational training workshops decreased the incidence of UC-related injuries. Methods A prospective audit was performed to calculate incidence, morbidity, and costs associated with iatrogenic UC injury from January to July 2015. Educational workshops were then conducted with healthcare staff and training modules for junior doctors. UC-related incidence, morbidity, and costs in the subsequent six-month period were recorded prospectively and compared with the previous data. Results The incidence of iatrogenic UC injuries was reduced from 4.3/1000 catheters inserted to 3.8/1000 catheters after the intervention (p=0.59). Morbidity from UC increased in the second half in the form of increase in cumulative additional inpatient hospital stay (22 to 79 days; p=0.25), incidence of urosepsis (n=2 to n=4), and need for operative intervention (n=1 to n=2). The cost of managing UC injuries almost doubled in the period after the training intervention (€50 449 to €90 100). Conclusions Current forms of educational and training interventions for UC did not significantly change morbidity or cost of iatrogenic UC injuries despite a decrease in incidence. Improved and intensive training protocols are necessary for UC to prevent avoidable iatrogenic complications, as well as a safer urethral catheter design. PMID:28761592

MiR-29a promotes intestinal epithelial apoptosis in ulcerative colitis by down-regulating Mcl-1.

PubMed

Lv, Bo; Liu, Zhihui; Wang, Shuping; Liu, Fengbin; Yang, Xiaojun; Hou, Jiangtao; Hou, Zhengkun; Chen, Bin

2014-01-01

While it's widely accepted that the etiology of ulcerative colitis (UC) involves both genetic and environmental factors, the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis is still poorly understood. Intestinal epithelial apoptosis is one of the most common histopathological changes of UC and the expression of a number of apoptosis genes may contribute to the progression of UC. MicroRNAs have recently emerged as powerful regulators of diverse cellular processes and have been shown to be involved in many immune-mediated disorders such as psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and asthma. A unique microRNA expression profile has been identified in UC, suggesting that, microRNAs play an important role in the pathogenesis of UC. We investigated the role of miR-29a in intestinal epithelial apoptosis in UC. The expression of miR-29a and Mcl-1, an anti-apoptotic BCL-2 family member, was evaluated in both UC patients and UC mice model induced by dextran sodium sulfate (DSS). The apoptosis rate of intestinal epithelial cells was also evaluated. In UC patients and DSS-induced UC in mice, the expression of miR-29a and Mcl-1, were up-regulated and down-regulated, respectively. We identified a miR-29a binding site (7 nucleotides) on the 3'UTR of mcl-1 and mutation in this binding site on the 3'UTR of mcl-1 led to mis-match between miR-29a and mcl-1. Knockout of Mcl-1 caused apoptosis of the colonic epithelial HT29 cells. In addition, miR-29a regulated intestinal epithelial apoptosis by down-regulating the expression of Mcl-1. miR-29a is involved in the pathogenesis of UC by regulating intestinal epithelial apoptosis via Mcl-1.

Expression characteristics of long noncoding RNA uc.322 and its effects on pancreatic islet function.

PubMed

Zhao, Xiaoqin; Rong, Can; Pan, Fenghui; Xiang, Lizhi; Wang, Xinlei; Hu, Yun

2018-06-28

Increasing evidence indicates that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) perform special biological functions by regulating gene expression through multiple pathways and molecular mechanisms. The aim of this study was to explore the expression characteristics of lncRNA uc.322 in pancreatic islet cells and its effects on the secretion function of islet cells. Bioinformatics analysis was used to detect the lncRNA uc.322 sequence, location, and structural features. Expression of lncRNA uc.322 in different tissues was detected by quantitative polymerase chain reaction analyses. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction, Western blot analysis, adenosine triphosphate determination, glucose-stimulated insulin secretion, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay were used to evaluate the effects of lncRNA uc.322 on insulin secretion. The results showed that the full-length of lncRNA uc.322 is 224 bp and that it is highly conserved in various species. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that lncRNA uc.322 is located on chr7:122893196-122893419 (GRCH37/hg19) within the SRY-related HMG-box 6 gene exon region. Compared with other tissues, lncRNA uc.322 is highly expressed in pancreatic tissue. Upregulation of lncRNA uc.322 expression increases the insulin transcription factors pancreatic and duodenal homeobox 1 and Forkhead box O1 expression, promotes insulin secretion in the extracellular fluid of Min6 cells, and increases the adenosine triphosphate concentration. On the other hand, knockdown of lncRNA uc.322 has opposite effects on Min6 cells. Overall, this study showed that upregulation of lncRNA uc.322 in islet β-cells can increase the expression of insulin transcription factors and promote insulin secretion, and it may be a new therapeutic target for diabetes. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

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

Chung, Chi-Jung; Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan; Huang, Chao-Yuan

Inter-individual variation in the metabolism of xenobiotics, caused by factors such as cigarette smoking or inorganic arsenic exposure, is hypothesized to be a susceptibility factor for urothelial carcinoma (UC). Therefore, our study aimed to evaluate the role of gene–environment interaction in the carcinogenesis of UC. A hospital-based case–control study was conducted. Urinary arsenic profiles were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography–hydride generator-atomic absorption spectrometry. Genotyping was performed using a polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism technique. Information about cigarette smoking exposure was acquired from a lifestyle questionnaire. Multivariate logistic regression was applied to estimate the UC risk associated with certain riskmore » factors. We found that UC patients had higher urinary levels of total arsenic, higher percentages of inorganic arsenic (InAs%) and monomethylarsonic acid (MMA%) and lower percentages of dimethylarsinic acid (DMA%) compared to controls. Subjects carrying the GSTM1 null genotype had significantly increased UC risk. However, no association was observed between gene polymorphisms of CYP1A1, EPHX1, SULT1A1 and GSTT1 and UC risk after adjustment for age and sex. Significant gene–environment interactions among urinary arsenic profile, cigarette smoking, and GSTM1 wild/null polymorphism and UC risk were observed after adjustment for potential risk factors. Overall, gene–environment interactions simultaneously played an important role in UC carcinogenesis. In the future, large-scale studies should be conducted using tag-SNPs of xenobiotic-metabolism-related enzymes for gene determination. -- Highlights: ► Subjects with GSTM1 null genotype had significantly increased UC risk. ► UC patients had poor arsenic metabolic ability compared to controls. ► GSTM1 null genotype may modify arsenic related UC risk.« less

Serology of Patients with Ulcerative Colitis After Pouch Surgery Is More Comparable with that of Patients with Crohn's Disease.

PubMed

Goren, Idan; Yahav, Lior; Tulchinsky, Hagit; Dotan, Iris

2015-10-01

The serologic status of patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) who develop postoperative pouchitis was compared with that of patients with Crohn's disease (CD) and unoperated patients with UC. Pouch patients were stratified into normal pouch, acute/recurrent acute pouchitis, and chronic pouchitis/Crohn's-like disease of the pouch groups. Antibodies against glycans associated with CD (anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae, anti-laminaribioside, anti-chitobioside, and anti-mannobioside carbohydrate antibodies [ASCA, ALCA, ACCA, and AMCA, respectively]) were detected and correlated with type of inflammatory bowel disease and pouch behavior. A total of 501 patients with inflammatory bowel diseases were recruited: 250 (50%) CD, 124 (24.7%) unoperated UC, and 127 (25.3%) UC-pouch. At least 1 positive antibody was detected in 77.6% CD, 52.0% UC-pouch and 33.1% unoperated UC (P < 0.0001 for all). ACCA and AMCA prevalence in CD, UC-pouch and unoperated patients with UC were 33.2%, 24.4%, and 16.9% (P = 0.003 for all) and 35.2%, 26.8%, and 7.3%, respectively (P < 0.0001 for all). ALCA and ASCA were more prevalent in patients with CD than unoperated UC and UC-pouch patients. A longer interval since pouch surgery was associated with inflammatory pouch behavior: 12.45, 11.39, and 8.5 years for acute/recurrent acute pouchitis, chronic pouchitis/Crohn's-like disease of the pouch, and normal pouch, respectively, P = 0.01 for all. The prevalence of the CD-associated anti-glycan antibodies ACCA and AMCA is significantly increased in UC-pouch patients, suggesting that pouch surgery may trigger differential immune responses to glycans. The finding that the serology of UC-pouch patients shares similarities with that of patients with CD supports the notion that those 2 inflammatory bowel diseases share a common pathogenic pathway.

Enhanced Contribution of HLA in Pediatric Onset Ulcerative Colitis.

PubMed

Venkateswaran, Suresh; Prince, Jarod; Cutler, David J; Marigorta, Urko M; Okou, David T; Prahalad, Sampath; Mack, David; Boyle, Brendan; Walters, Thomas; Griffiths, Anne; Sauer, Cary G; LeLeiko, Neal; Keljo, David; Markowitz, James; Baker, Susan S; Rosh, Joel; Pfefferkorn, Marian; Heyman, Melvin B; Patel, Ashish; Otley, Anthony; Baldassano, Robert; Noe, Joshua; Rufo, Paul; Oliva-Hemker, Maria; Davis, Sonia; Zwick, Michael E; Gibson, Greg; Denson, Lee A; Hyams, Jeffrey; Kugathasan, Subra

2018-03-19

The genetic contributions to pediatric onset ulcerative colitis (UC), characterized by severe disease and extensive colonic involvement, are largely unknown. In adult onset UC, Genome Wide Association Study (GWAS) has identified numerous loci, most of which have a modest susceptibility risk (OR 0.84-1.14), with the exception of the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) region on Chromosome 6 (OR 3.59). To study the genetic contribution to exclusive pediatric onset UC, a GWAS was performed on 466 cases with 2099 healthy controls using UK Biobank array. SNP2HLA was used to impute classical HLA alleles and their corresponding amino acids, and the results are compared with adult onset UC. HLA explained the almost entire association signal, dominated with 191 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) (p = 5 x 10-8 to 5 x 10-10). Although very small effects, established SNPs in adult onset UC loci had similar direction and magnitude in pediatric onset UC. SNP2HLA imputation identified HLA-DRB1*0103 (odds ratio [OR] = 6.941, p = 1.92*10-13) as the most significant association for pediatric UC compared with adult onset UC (OR = 3.59). Further conditioning showed independent effects for HLA-DRB1*1301 (OR = 2.25, p = 7.92*10-9) and another SNP rs17188113 (OR = 0.48, p = 7.56*10-9). Two HLA-DRB1 causal alleles are shared with adult onset UC, while at least 2 signals are unique to pediatric UC. Subsequent stratified analyses indicated that HLA-DRB1*0103 has stronger association for extensive disease (E4: OR = 8.28, p = 4.66x10-10) and female gender (OR = 8.85, p = 4.82x10-13). In pediatric onset UC, the HLA explains almost the entire genetic associations. In addition, the HLA association is approximately twice as strong in pediatric UC compared with adults, due to a combination of novel and shared effects. We speculate the paramount importance of antigenic stimulation either by infectious or noninfectious stimuli as a causal event in pediatric UC onset.

Isothiocyanate-enriched moringa seed extract alleviates ulcerative colitis symptoms in mice

PubMed Central

Wu, Alex G.; Jaja-Chimedza, Asha; Graf, Brittany L.; Waterman, Carrie; Verzi, Michael P.; Raskin, Ilya

2017-01-01

Moringa (Moringa oleifera Lam.) seed extract (MSE) has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. We investigated the effects of MSE enriched in moringa isothiocyanate-1 (MIC-1), its putative bioactive, on ulcerative colitis (UC) and its anti-inflammatory/antioxidant mechanism likely mediated through Nrf2-signaling pathway. Dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced acute (n = 8/group; 3% DSS for 5 d) and chronic (n = 6/group; cyclic rotations of 2.5% DSS/water for 30 d) UC was induced in mice that were assigned to 4 experimental groups: healthy control (water/vehicle), disease control (DSS/vehicle), MSE treatment (DSS/MSE), or 5-aminosalicyic acid (5-ASA) treatment (positive control; DSS/5-ASA). Following UC induction, water (vehicle), 150 mg/kg MSE, or 50 mg/kg 5-ASA were orally administered for 1 or 2 wks. Disease activity index (DAI), spleen/colon sizes, and colonic histopathology were measured. From colon and/or fecal samples, pro-inflammatory biomarkers, tight-junction proteins, and Nrf2-mediated enzymes were analyzed at protein and/or gene expression levels. Compared to disease control, MSE decreased DAI scores, and showed an increase in colon lengths and decrease in colon weight/length ratios in both UC models. MSE also reduced colonic inflammation/damage and histopathological scores (modestly) in acute UC. MSE decreased colonic secretions of pro-inflammatory keratinocyte-derived cytokine (KC), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, nitric oxide (NO), and myeloperoxidase (MPO) in acute and chronic UC; reduced fecal lipocalin-2 in acute UC; downregulated gene expression of pro-inflammatory interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6, TNF-α, and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in acute UC; upregulated expression of claudin-1 and ZO-1 in acute and chronic UC; and upregulated GSTP1, an Nrf2-mediated phase II detoxifying enzyme, in chronic UC. MSE was effective in mitigating UC symptoms and reducing UC-induced colonic pathologies, likely by suppressing pro-inflammatory biomarkers and increasing tight-junction proteins. This effect is consistent with Nrf2-mediated anti-inflammatory/antioxidant signaling pathway documented for other isothiocyanates similar to MIC-1. Therefore, MSE, enriched with MIC-1, may be useful in prevention and treatment of UC. PMID:28922365

Isothiocyanate-enriched moringa seed extract alleviates ulcerative colitis symptoms in mice.

PubMed

Kim, Youjin; Wu, Alex G; Jaja-Chimedza, Asha; Graf, Brittany L; Waterman, Carrie; Verzi, Michael P; Raskin, Ilya

2017-01-01

Moringa (Moringa oleifera Lam.) seed extract (MSE) has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. We investigated the effects of MSE enriched in moringa isothiocyanate-1 (MIC-1), its putative bioactive, on ulcerative colitis (UC) and its anti-inflammatory/antioxidant mechanism likely mediated through Nrf2-signaling pathway. Dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced acute (n = 8/group; 3% DSS for 5 d) and chronic (n = 6/group; cyclic rotations of 2.5% DSS/water for 30 d) UC was induced in mice that were assigned to 4 experimental groups: healthy control (water/vehicle), disease control (DSS/vehicle), MSE treatment (DSS/MSE), or 5-aminosalicyic acid (5-ASA) treatment (positive control; DSS/5-ASA). Following UC induction, water (vehicle), 150 mg/kg MSE, or 50 mg/kg 5-ASA were orally administered for 1 or 2 wks. Disease activity index (DAI), spleen/colon sizes, and colonic histopathology were measured. From colon and/or fecal samples, pro-inflammatory biomarkers, tight-junction proteins, and Nrf2-mediated enzymes were analyzed at protein and/or gene expression levels. Compared to disease control, MSE decreased DAI scores, and showed an increase in colon lengths and decrease in colon weight/length ratios in both UC models. MSE also reduced colonic inflammation/damage and histopathological scores (modestly) in acute UC. MSE decreased colonic secretions of pro-inflammatory keratinocyte-derived cytokine (KC), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, nitric oxide (NO), and myeloperoxidase (MPO) in acute and chronic UC; reduced fecal lipocalin-2 in acute UC; downregulated gene expression of pro-inflammatory interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6, TNF-α, and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in acute UC; upregulated expression of claudin-1 and ZO-1 in acute and chronic UC; and upregulated GSTP1, an Nrf2-mediated phase II detoxifying enzyme, in chronic UC. MSE was effective in mitigating UC symptoms and reducing UC-induced colonic pathologies, likely by suppressing pro-inflammatory biomarkers and increasing tight-junction proteins. This effect is consistent with Nrf2-mediated anti-inflammatory/antioxidant signaling pathway documented for other isothiocyanates similar to MIC-1. Therefore, MSE, enriched with MIC-1, may be useful in prevention and treatment of UC.

FRAUD/SABOTAGE Killing Nuclear-Reactors Need Modeling!!!: "Super"alloys GENERIC ENDEMIC Wigner's-Disease/.../IN-stability: Ethics? SHMETHICS!!!

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Asphahani, Aziz; Siegel, Sidney; Siegel, Edward

2010-03-01

Carbides solid-state chemistry domination of old/new nuclear- reactors/spent-fuel-casks/refineries/jet/missile/rocket-engines in austenitic/FCC Ni/Fe-based(so miscalled)``super"alloys(182/82; Hastelloy-X,600,304/304L-SSs,...,690!!!) GENERIC ENDEMIC EXTANT detrimental(synonyms): Wigner's-diseas(WD)[J.Appl.Phys.17,857 (1946)]/Ostwald-ripening/spinodal-decomposition/overageing- embrittlement/thermal-leading-to-mechanical(TLTM)-INstability: Mayo[Google:``If Leaks Could Kill"; at flickr.com search on ``Giant-Magnotoresistance"; find: Siegel[J.Mag.Mag.Mtls.7,312 (1978)]<<<``Fert"-"Gruenberg"(1988/89)2007-physics Nobel/Wolf/ Japan-prizes]necessitating NRC-inspections of 40+25 = 65 Westin- ``KLouse PWRs(12/2006)]-Lai[Met.Trans.AIME,9A,827(1978)]-Sabol- Stickler[Phys.Stat.Sol.(1970)]-Ashpahani[Intl.Conf. H in Metals, Paris(1977]-Russell[Prog.Mtls.Sci.(1983)]-Pollard[last UCS rept. (9/1995)]-Lofaro[BNL/DOE/NRC Repts.]-Pringle[Nuclear-Power:From Physics to Politics(1979)]-Hoffman[animatedsoftware.com], what DOE/NRC MISlabels as ``butt-welds" ``stress-corrosion cracking" endpoint's ROOT-CAUSE ULTIMATE-ORIGIN is WD overageing-embritt- lement caused brittle-fracture cracking from early/ongoing AEC/ DOE-n"u"tional-la"v"atories sabotage!!!

FRAUD/SABOTAGE Killing Nuclear-Reactors Need Modeling!!!: ``Super'' alloys GENERIC ENDEMIC Wigner's-Disease/.../IN-stability: Ethics? SHMETHICS!!!

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

O'Grady, Joseph; Bument, Arlden; Siegel, Edward

2011-03-01

Carbides solid-state chemistry domination of old/new nuclear-reactors/spent-fuel-casks/refineries/jet/missile/rocket-engines is austenitic/FCC Ni/Fe-based (so miscalled)"super"alloys(182/82;Hastelloy-X,600,304/304L-SSs,...690!!!) GENERIC ENDEMIC EXTANT detrimental(synonyms): Wigner's-disease(WD) [J.Appl.Phys.17,857 (46)]/Ostwald-ripening/spinodal-decomposition/overageing-embrittlement/thermal-leading-to-mechanical(TLTM)-INstability: Mayo[Google: fLeaksCouldKill > ; - Siegel [ J . Mag . Mag . Mtls . 7 , 312 (78) = atflickr . comsearchonGiant - Magnotoresistance [Fert" [PRL(1988)]-"Gruenberg"[PRL(1989)] 2007-Nobel]necessitating NRC inspections on 40+25=65 Westin"KL"ouse PWRs(12/2006)]-Lai [Met.Trans.AIME, 9A,827(78)]-Sabol-Stickler[Phys.Stat.Sol.(70)]-Ashpahani[ Intl.Conf. Hydrogen in Metals, Paris(1977]-Russell [Prog.Mtls.Sci.(1983)]-Pollard [last UCS rept.(9/1995)]-Lofaro [BNL/DOE/NRC Repts.]-Pringle [ Nuclear-Power:From Physics to Politics(1979)]-Hoffman [animatedsoftware.com], what DOE/NRC MISlabels as "butt-welds" "stress-corrosion cracking" endpoint's ROOT-CAUSE ULTIMATE-ORIGIN is WD overageing-embrittlement caused brittle-fracture cracking from early/ongoing AEC/DOE-n"u"tional-la"v"atories sabotage!!!

High Temperature Nanocomposites For Nuclear Thermal Propulsion and In-Space Fabrication by Hyperbaric Pressure Laser Chemical Vapor Deposition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maxwell, J. L.; Webb, N. D.; Espinoza, M.; Cook, S.; Houts, M.; Kim, T.

Nuclear Thermal Propulsion (NTP) is an indispensable technology for the manned exploration of the solar system. By using Hyperbaric Pressure Laser Chemical Vapor Deposition (HP-LCVD), the authors propose to design and build a promising next-generation fuel element composed of uranium carbide UC embedded in a latticed matrix of highly refractory Ta4HfC5 for an NTP rocket capable of sustaining temperatures up to 4000 K, enabling an Isp of up to 1250 s. Furthermore, HP-LCVD technology can also be harnessed to enable 3D rapid prototyping of a variety of materials including metals, ceramics and composites, opening up the possibility of in-space fabrication of components, replacement parts, difficult-to-launch solar sails and panels and a variety of other space structures. Additionally, rapid prototyping with HP-LCVD makes a feasible "live off the land" strategy of interplanetary and interstellar exploration ­ the precursors commonly used in the technology are found, often in abundance, on other solar system bodies either as readily harvestable gas (e.g. methane) or as a raw material that could be converted into a suitable precursor (e.g. iron oxide into ferrocene on Mars).

Ablation Resistant Zirconium and Hafnium Ceramics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bull, Jeffrey (Inventor); White, Michael J. (Inventor); Kaufman, Larry (Inventor)

1998-01-01

High temperature ablation resistant ceramic composites have been made. These ceramics are composites of zirconium diboride and zirconium carbide with silicon carbide, hafnium diboride and hafnium carbide with silicon carbide and ceramic composites which contain mixed diborides and/or carbides of zirconium and hafnium. along with silicon carbide.

Building a Science Community of Effective Advocates: The Case of the Union of Concerned Scientists Science Network

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Varga, M.; Worcester, J.

2017-12-01

The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) Science Network is a community of over 20,000 scientists, engineers, economists, public health specialists, and technical experts that inform and advocate for science-based solutions to some of our nation's most pressing problems. The role of the community manager here is to train and prepare Science Network members to be effective advocates for science-based decision making, and also to identify opportunities for them to put their skills and expertise into action on science and public health issues. As an organizational asset, but also an important resource to its members, it is crucial that the Science Network demonstrate its impact. But measuring impact when it comes to engagement and advocacy can be difficult. Here we will define a glossary of terms relating to community management and scientist engagement, delve into tracking and measurement of actions taken within a community, and connect the dots between tracking metrics and measuring impact. Measuring impact in community management is a growing field, and here we will also suggest future research that will help standardize impact measurement, as well as bring attention to the growing and unique role that scientist communities can have on policy and public engagement goals. This work has been informed by the American Association for the Advancement of Science's inaugural cohort of the Community Engagement Fellows Program.

A micrographic and gravimetric study of intercalation and deintercalation of graphite fibers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hung, C. C.

1985-01-01

Intercalation and deintercalation of Union Carbide P-100 graphite fibers with liquid and vaporous bromine was studied gravimetrically and microscopically. The mass of the bromine intercalated fibers was found to be 17 to 20 percent greater than their pristine counterpart. This variation decreased to 17 to 18 percent after heating in air for 3 days at 200 C and to 14.5 to 18 percent after 6 days of 260 C heating. The fiber length did not change throughout the experiment. The fiber diameter increased during intercalation and decreased slightly upon deintercalation but was not affected by heating to 260 C for 3 days in air. Comparing the mass and volume data to those with highly oriented pyrolitic graphite or natural single crystal graphite suggested the possibility that the intercalated P-100 fibers could be mostly stage 4.

Mathematics and Statistics Research Department progress report, period ending June 30, 1982

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

Denson, M.V.; Funderlic, R.E.; Gosslee, D.G.

1982-08-01

This report is the twenty-fifth in the series of progress reports of the Mathematics and Statistics Research Department of the Computer Sciences Division, Union Carbide Corporation Nuclear Division (UCC-ND). Part A records research progress in analysis of large data sets, biometrics research, computational statistics, materials science applications, moving boundary problems, numerical linear algebra, and risk analysis. Collaboration and consulting with others throughout the UCC-ND complex are recorded in Part B. Included are sections on biology, chemistry, energy, engineering, environmental sciences, health and safety, materials science, safeguards, surveys, and the waste storage program. Part C summarizes the various educational activities inmore » which the staff was engaged. Part D lists the presentations of research results, and Part E records the staff's other professional activities during the report period.« less

Mathematics and statistics research department. Progress report, period ending June 30, 1981

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

Lever, W.E.; Kane, V.E.; Scott, D.S.

1981-09-01

This report is the twenty-fourth in the series of progress reports of the Mathematics and Statistics Research Department of the Computer Sciences Division, Union Carbide Corporation - Nuclear Division (UCC-ND). Part A records research progress in biometrics research, materials science applications, model evaluation, moving boundary problems, multivariate analysis, numerical linear algebra, risk analysis, and complementary areas. Collaboration and consulting with others throughout the UCC-ND complex are recorded in Part B. Included are sections on biology and health sciences, chemistry, energy, engineering, environmental sciences, health and safety research, materials sciences, safeguards, surveys, and uranium resource evaluation. Part C summarizes the variousmore » educational activities in which the staff was engaged. Part D lists the presentations of research results, and Part E records the staff's other professional activities during the report period.« less

Decommissioning ALARA programs Cintichem decommissioning experience

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

Adler, J.J.; LaGuardia, T.S.

1995-03-01

The Cintichem facility, originally the Union Carbide Nuclear Company (UCNC) Research Center, consisted primarily of a 5MW pool type reactor linked via a four-foot-wide by twelve-foot-deep water-filled canal to a bank of five adjacent hot cells. Shortly after going into operations in the early 1960s, the facility`s operations expanded to provide various reactor-based products and services to a multitude of research, production, medical, and education groups. From 1968 through 1972, the facility developed a process of separating isotopes from mixed fission products generated by irradiating enriched Uranium target capsules. By the late 1970s, 20 to 30 capsules were being processedmore » weekly, with about 200,000 curies being produced per week. Several isotopes such as Mo{sup 99}, I{sup 131}, and Xe{sup 133} were being extracted for medical use.« less

A review of the silicon material task

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lutwack, R.

1984-01-01

The Silicon Material Task of the Flat-Plate Solar Array Project was assigned the objective of developing the technology for low-cost processes for producing polysilicon suitable for terrestrial solar-cell applications. The Task program comprised sections for process developments for semiconductor-grade and solar-cell-grade products. To provide information for deciding upon process designs, extensive investigations of the effects of impurities on material properties and the performance of cells were conducted. The silane process of the Union Carbide Corporation was carried through several stages of technical and engineering development; a pilot plant was the culmination of this effort. The work to establish silane fluidized-bed technology for a low-cost process is continuing. The advantages of the use of dichlorosilane is a siemens-type were shown by Hemlock Semiconductor Corporation. The development of other processes is described.

A review of the silicon material task

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lutwack, R.

1984-02-01

The Silicon Material Task of the Flat-Plate Solar Array Project was assigned the objective of developing the technology for low-cost processes for producing polysilicon suitable for terrestrial solar-cell applications. The Task program comprised sections for process developments for semiconductor-grade and solar-cell-grade products. To provide information for deciding upon process designs, extensive investigations of the effects of impurities on material properties and the performance of cells were conducted. The silane process of the Union Carbide Corporation was carried through several stages of technical and engineering development; a pilot plant was the culmination of this effort. The work to establish silane fluidized-bed technology for a low-cost process is continuing. The advantages of the use of dichlorosilane is a siemens-type were shown by Hemlock Semiconductor Corporation. The development of other processes is described.

Estimating hydrodynamic roughness in a wave-dominated environment with a high-resolution acoustic Doppler profiler

USGS Publications Warehouse

Lacy, J.R.; Sherwood, C.R.; Wilson, D.J.; Chisholm, T.A.; Gelfenbaum, G.R.

2005-01-01

Hydrodynamic roughness is a critical parameter for characterizing bottom drag in boundary layers, and it varies both spatially and temporally due to variation in grain size, bedforms, and saltating sediment. In this paper we investigate temporal variability in hydrodynamic roughness using velocity profiles in the bottom boundary layer measured with a high-resolution acoustic Doppler profiler (PCADP). The data were collected on the ebb-tidal delta off Grays Harbor, Washington, in a mean water depth of 9 m. Significant wave height ranged from 0.5 to 3 m. Bottom roughness has rarely been determined from hydrodynamic measurements under conditions such as these, where energetic waves and medium-to-fine sand produce small bedforms. Friction velocity due to current u*c and apparent bottom roughness z0a were determined from the PCADP burst mean velocity profiles using the law of the wall. Bottom roughness kB was estimated by applying the Grant-Madsen model for wave-current interaction iteratively until the model u*c converged with values determined from the data. The resulting kB values ranged over 3 orders of magnitude (10-1 to 10-4 m) and varied inversely with wave orbital diameter. This range of kB influences predicted bottom shear stress considerably, suggesting that the use of time-varying bottom roughness could significantly improve the accuracy of sediment transport models. Bedform height was estimated from kB and is consistent with both ripple heights predicted by empirical models and bedforms in sonar images collected during the experiment. Copyright 2005 by the American Geophysical Union.

Dissociation between implicit and explicit responses in postconditioning UCS revaluation after fear conditioning in humans

PubMed Central

Schultz, Douglas H.; Balderston, Nicholas L.; Geiger, Jennifer A.; Helmstetter, Fred J.

2014-01-01

The nature of the relationship between explicit and implicit learning is a topic of considerable debate. In order to investigate this relationship we conducted two experiments on postconditioning revaluation of the unconditional stimulus (UCS) in human fear conditioning. In Experiment 1, the intensity of the UCS was decreased following acquisition for one group (devaluation) and held constant for another group (control). A subsequent test revealed that even though both groups exhibited similar levels of UCS expectancy, the devaluation group had significantly smaller conditional skin conductance responses. The devaluation effect was not explained by differences in the explicit estimates of UCS probability or explicit knowledge that the UCS intensity had changed. In Experiment 2, the value of the UCS was increased following acquisition for one group (inflation) and held constant for another group (control). Test performance revealed that UCS inflation did not alter expectancy ratings, but the inflation group exhibited larger learned skin conductance responses than the control group. The inflation effect was not explained by differences in the explicit estimates of UCS probability or explicit knowledge that the UCS intensity had changed. The SCR revaluation effect was not dependent on explicit memory processes in either experiment. In both experiments we found differences on an implicit measure of learning in the absence of changes in explicit measures. Together, the differences observed between expectancy measures and skin conductance support the idea that these responses might reflect different types of memory formed during the same training procedure and be supported by separate neural systems. PMID:23731073

Polymorphisms of the IL-1beta and IL-1beta-inducible genes in ulcerative colitis.

PubMed

Nohara, Hiroaki; Saito, Yuki; Higaki, Singo; Okayama, Naoko; Hamanaka, Yuichiro; Okita, Kiwamu; Hinoda, Yuji

2002-11-01

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic disorder of undetermined etiology, but a genetic predisposition to UC is well recognized. Among cytokines induced in UC, interleukin 1 (IL-1) appears to have a central role because of its immunological upregulatory and proinflammatory activities. The aim of this study was to assess whether UC is associated with polymorphisms of the IL-1beta gene and three additional genes inducible with IL-1beta in Japanese subjects. A total of 96 patients with UC and 106 ethnically matched controls were genotyped at polymorphic sites in IL-1beta, matrix metalloproteinase 1 (MMP-1), matrix metalloproteinase 3 (MMP-3), and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) genes, using polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based methods. There was no significant difference in genotype distributions of IL-1beta, MMP-1, MMP-3, and iNOS genes between controls and UC patients in a Japanese population. Also, no significant association of those polymorphisms with various clinical parameters of the patients was found. However, concerning association of age at onset with clinical factors in UC, the frequency of pancolitis was significantly higher in UC patients with age at onset being less than 30 years than in those more than 30 years of age (P = 0.049). No association of the IL-1beta and three IL-1beta-inducible gene polymorphisms with UC was observed in a Japanese population.

Lack of in vitro-in vivo correlation for a UC781-releasing vaginal ring in macaques.

PubMed

McConville, Christopher; Smith, James M; McCoy, Clare F; Srinivasan, Priya; Mitchell, James; Holder, Angela; Otten, Ron A; Butera, Salvatore; Doncel, Gustavo F; Friend, David R; Malcolm, R Karl

2015-02-01

This study describes the preclinical development of a matrix-type silicone elastomer vaginal ring device designed to provide controlled release of UC781, a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor. Testing of both human- and macaque-sized rings in a sink condition in vitro release model demonstrated continuous UC781 release in quantities considered sufficient to maintain vaginal fluid concentrations at levels 82-860-fold higher than the in vitro IC50 (2.0 to 10.4 nM) and therefore potentially protect against mucosal transmission of HIV. The 100-mg UC781 rings were well tolerated in pig-tailed macaques, did not induce local inflammation as determined by cytokine analysis and maintained median concentrations in vaginal fluids of UC781 in the range of 0.27 to 5.18 mM during the course of the 28-day study. Analysis of residual UC781 content in rings after completion of both the in vitro release and macaque pharmacokinetic studies revealed that 57 and 5 mg of UC781 was released, respectively. The pharmacokinetic analysis of a 100-mg UC781 vaginal ring in pig-tailed macaques showed poor in vivo-in vitro correlation, attributed to the very poor solubility of UC781 in vaginal fluid and resulting in a dissolution-controlled drug release mechanism rather than the expected diffusion-controlled mechanism.

Anti-TNF-A therapy about infliximab and adalimamab for the effectiveness in ulcerative colitis compared with conventional therapy: a meta-analysis.

PubMed

Zhou, Zheng; Dai, Cong; Liu, Wei-Xin

2015-01-01

TNF-α has an important role in the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis (UC). It seems that anti-TNF-α therapy is beneficial in the treatment of UC. The aim was to assess the effectiveness of Infliximab and Adalimamab with UC compared with conventional therapy. The Pubmed and Embase databases were searched for studies investigating the efficacy of infliximab and adalimumab on UC. Infliximab had a statistically significant effects in induction of clinical response (RR = 1.67; 95% CI 1.12 to 2.50) of UC compared with conventional therapy, but those had not a statistically significant effects in clinical remission (RR = 1.63; 95% CI 0.84 to 3.18) and reduction of colectomy rate (RR = 0.54; 95% CI 0.26 to 1.12) of UC. And adalimumab had a statistically significant effects in induction of clinical remission (RR = 1.82; 95% CI 1.24 to 2.67) and clinical response (RR = 1.36; 95% CI 1.13 to 1.64) of UC compared with conventional therapy. Our meta-analyses suggested that Infliximab had a statistically significant effects in induction of clinical response of UC compared with conventional therapy and adalimumab had a statistically significant effects in induction of clinical remission and clinical response of UC compared with conventional therapy.

Anti-TNF-A Therapy about Infliximab and Adalimamab for the Effectiveness in Ulcerative Colitis Compared with Conventional Therapy: A Meta-Analysis.

PubMed

Zhou, Zheng; Dai, Cong; Liu, Wei-xin

2015-06-01

TNF-α has an important role in the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis (UC). It seems that anti-TNF-α therapy is beneficial in the treatment of UC. The aim was to assess the effectiveness of Infliximab and Adalimamab with UC compared with con- ventional therapy. The Pubmed and Embase databases were searched for studies investigating the efficacy of infliximab and adalimumab on UC. Infliximab had a statistically significant effects in induction of clinical response (RR = 1.67; 95% CI 1.12 to 2.50) of UC compared with conventional therapy, but those had not a statistically significant effects in clinical remission (RR = 1.63; 95% CI 0.84 to 3.18) and reduction of colectomy rate (RR = 0.54; 95% CI 0.26 to 1.12) of UC. And adalimumab had a statistically significant effects in induction of clinical remission (RR =1.82; 95% CI 1.24 to 2.67) and clinical response (RR =1.36; 95% CI 1.13 to 1.64) of UC compared with conventional therapy. Our meta-analyses suggested that Infliximab had a statistically significant effects in induction of clinical response of UC compared with conventional therapy and adalimumab had a statistically significant effects in induction of clinical remission and clinical response of UC compared with conventional therapy.

MF2KtoMF05UC, a Program To Convert MODFLOW-2000 Files to MODFLOW-2005 and UCODE_2005 Files

USGS Publications Warehouse

Harbaugh, Arlen W.

2007-01-01

The program MF2KtoMF05UC has been developed to convert MODFLOW-2000 input files for use by MODFLOW-2005 and UCODE_2005. MF2KtoMF05UC was written in the Fortran 90 computer language. This report documents the use of MF2KtoMF05UC.

A three-stage birandom program for unit commitment with wind power uncertainty.

PubMed

Zhang, Na; Li, Weidong; Liu, Rao; Lv, Quan; Sun, Liang

2014-01-01

The integration of large-scale wind power adds a significant uncertainty to power system planning and operating. The wind forecast error is decreased with the forecast horizon, particularly when it is from one day to several hours ahead. Integrating intraday unit commitment (UC) adjustment process based on updated ultra-short term wind forecast information is one way to improve the dispatching results. A novel three-stage UC decision method, in which the day-ahead UC decisions are determined in the first stage, the intraday UC adjustment decisions of subfast start units are determined in the second stage, and the UC decisions of fast-start units and dispatching decisions are determined in the third stage is presented. Accordingly, a three-stage birandom UC model is presented, in which the intraday hours-ahead forecasted wind power is formulated as a birandom variable, and the intraday UC adjustment event is formulated as a birandom event. The equilibrium chance constraint is employed to ensure the reliability requirement. A birandom simulation based hybrid genetic algorithm is designed to solve the proposed model. Some computational results indicate that the proposed model provides UC decisions with lower expected total costs.

Golimumab in unresponsive ulcerative colitis.

PubMed

Lippert, Elisabeth; Müller, Martina; Ott, Claudia

2014-01-01

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammation mainly affecting the colon mucosa. It predominantly occurs in younger patients. Until recently, the main goals in the treatment of UC were to temper the symptoms, such as diarrhea, pain, and weight loss, by using mesalazine and steroids. With newer medications, such as immunomodulators (thiopurines) and the biologics providing blockade of tumor necrosis factor (TNF), the goals of the therapy in UC have changed to long-term remission and mucosal healing. The first available anti-TNF therapy in UC included infusion therapy with infliximab every few weeks. In 2012, subcutaneously administered adalimumab gained approval for the treatment of UC in Germany. In patients with a mild disease, therapy with mesalazine, orally or topically, can be sufficient. In patients with moderate to severe disease, therapy with azathioprine or anti-TNF is often required to reach disease control; however, this is only efficient in about two-thirds of patients. Some patients either show no response or a lost response while on treatment. So, further medical options are warranted in the treatment of UC. With golimumab, a new approach in the treatment of mild to moderate UC recently became available in Germany and is a promising new option in the therapy regimen for patients with UC.

Betaine synthesis in chenopods: localization in chloroplasts

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

Hanson, A.D.; May A.M.; Grumet, R.

1985-06-01

Plants from several families (Chenopodiaceae, Gramineae, Compositae) accumulate betaine (glycine betaine) in response to salt or water stress via the pathway: choline betainal (betaine aldehyde) betaine. Betaine accumulation is probably a metabolic adaptation to stress. Intact protoplasts from leaves of spinach (Spinacia oleracea) oxidized ( UC)choline to betainal and betaine, as did protoplast lysates. Upon differential centrifugation, the ( UC)choline-oxidizing activity of lysates sedimented with chloroplasts. Chloroplasts purified from protoplast lysates by a Percoll cushion procedure retained strong ( UC)choline-oxidizing activity, although the proportion of the intermediate, ( UC)betainal, in the reaction products was usually higher than for protoplasts. Isolatedmore » chloroplasts also readily oxidized ( UC)betainal to betaine. Light increased the oxidation of both ( UC)choline and ( UC)betainal by isolated chloroplasts. Similar results were obtained with another chenopod (Beta vulgaris) but not with pea (Pisum sativum), a species that accumulates no betaine. The chloroplast site for betaine synthesis in chenopods contrasts with the mitochondrial site in mammals.« less

Interleukin 27 is up-regulated in patients with active inflammatory bowel disease.

PubMed

Furuzawa Carballeda, Janette; Fonseca Camarillo, Gabriela; Yamamoto-Furusho, Jesús K

2016-08-01

The aim of the study was to characterize and quantify tissue gene and protein expression of IL-27 in ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD) patients. This is an observational and cross-sectional study. Fifty-four patients with IBD were studied: 27 active UC, 12 inactive UC, 10 active CD, and 5 inactive CD. All patients belonged to the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Clinic at the Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición. We found that IL-27 gene expression was significantly higher in active UC versus inactive UC group (P = 0.015). The IL-27 mRNA expression was increased in patients with active CD compared with inactive CD disease (P = 0.035). The percentage of IL-27 immunoreactive cells was higher in active UC versus active CD patients and non-inflamed tissue controls. The IL-27 was significantly elevated in active UC and CD patients, and it was associated with disease severity.

First Results on High-spin States in ^179Au

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mueller, W. F.; Bingham, C. R.; Reviol, W.; Riedinger, L. L.; Smith, B. H.; Wauters, J.; Ahmad, I.; Amro, H. A.; Blumenthal, D. J.; Carpenter, M. P.; Davids, C. N.; Fischer, S. M.; Hackman, G.; Henderson, D. J.; Janssens, R. V. F.; Khoo, T. L.; Lauritsen, T.; Lister, C. J.; Nisius, D. T.; Seweryniak, D.; Ma, W. C.

1996-05-01

High-spin states in ^179Au were studied for the first time in two experiments at the Argonne uc(atlas) facility. The ^144Sm(^40Ar,p4n)^179Au reaction at 207 MeV was used for the first experiment and ^124Te(^58Ni,p2n)^179Au at 255 MeV in the second. The setup in the first experiment consisted of the Fragment Mass Analyzer (uc(fma)) plus Parallel Plate Avalanche Counter (uc(ppac)) system and 10 Compton-suppressed Ge detectors (CSG's). From this run, several transitions from the yrast bands were established. The latter experiment utilized the uc(fma) + uc(ppac) system in conjunction with the uc(aye-ball) array of 19 Ge detectors (eight >70% efficient CSG's, nine 25% efficient CSG's, and two LEPS; one with Compton suppression) and a double sided silicon strip detector (uc(dssd).) The results from these experiments, including a level scheme, will be presented and discussed.

Improved toughness of silicon carbide

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Palm, J. A.

1976-01-01

Impact energy absorbing layers (EALs) comprised of partially densified silicon carbide were formed in situ on fully sinterable silicon carbide substrates. After final sintering, duplex silicon carbide structures resulted which were comprised of a fully sintered, high density silicon carbide substrate or core, overlayed with an EAL of partially sintered silicon carbide integrally bonded to its core member. Thermal cycling tests proved such structures to be moderately resistant to oxidation and highly resistant to thermal shock stresses. The strength of the developed structures in some cases exceeded but essentially it remained the same as the fully sintered silicon carbide without the EAL. Ballistic impact tests indicated that substantial improvements in the toughness of sintered silicon carbide were achieved by the use of the partially densified silicon carbide EALs.

The effects of carbide column to swelling potential and Atterberg limit on expansive soil with column to soil drainage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Muamar Rifa'i, Alfian; Setiawan, Bambang; Djarwanti, Noegroho

2017-12-01

The expansive soil is soil that has a potential for swelling-shrinking due to changes in water content. Such behavior can exert enough force on building above to cause damage. The use of columns filled with additives such as Calcium Carbide is done to reduce the negative impact of expansive soil behavior. This study aims to determine the effect of carbide columns on expansive soil. Observations were made on swelling and spreading of carbides in the soil. 7 Carbide columns with 5 cm diameter and 20 cm height were installed into the soil with an inter-column spacing of 8.75 cm. Wetting is done through a pipe at the center of the carbide column for 20 days. Observations were conducted on expansive soil without carbide columns and expansive soil with carbide columns. The results showed that the addition of carbide column could reduce the percentage of swelling by 4.42%. Wetting through the center of the carbide column can help spread the carbide into the soil. The use of carbide columns can also decrease the rate of soil expansivity. After the addition of carbide column, the plasticity index value decreased from 71.76% to 4.3% and the shrinkage index decreased from 95.72% to 9.2%.

Friction and wear behavior of single-crystal silicon carbide in contact with titanium

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miyoshi, K.; Buckley, D. H.

1977-01-01

Sliding friction experiments were conducted with single crystal silicon carbide in sliding contact with titanium. Results indicate that the friction coefficient is greater in vacuum than in argon and that this is due to the greater adhesion or adhesive transfer in vacuum. Thin films of silicon carbide transferred to titanium also adhered to silicon carbide both in argon at atmospheric pressure and in high vacuum. Cohesive bonds fractured on both the silicon carbide and titanium surfaces. The wear debris of silicon carbide created by fracture plowed the silicon carbide surface in a plastic manner. The friction characteristics of titanium in contact with silicon carbide were sensitive to the surface roughness of silicon carbide, and the friction coefficients were higher for a rough surface of silicon carbide than for a smooth one. The difference in friction results was due to plastic deformation (plowing of titanium).

Evaluation of a multiplex PCR assay for detection of cytomegalovirus in stool samples from patients with ulcerative colitis

PubMed Central

Nahar, Saifun; Iraha, Atsushi; Hokama, Akira; Uehara, Ayako; Parrott, Gretchen; Ohira, Tetsuya; Kaida, Masatoshi; Kinjo, Tetsu; Kinjo, Takeshi; Hirata, Tetsuo; Kinjo, Nagisa; Fujita, Jiro

2015-01-01

AIM: To evaluate a multiplex PCR assay for the detection of bacterial and viral enteropathogens in stool samples from patients with ulcerative colitis (UC). METHODS: We prospectively analyzed 300 individuals, including immunocompetent patients, immunocompromised patients, and patients with UC. Stool samples were collected from the recto-sigmoid region of the colon by endoscopy. The samples were qualitatively analyzed for bacterial and viral enteropathogens with a multiplex PCR assay using a Seeplex® Kit. Additional clinical and laboratory data were collected from the medical records. RESULTS: A multiplex PCR assay detected 397 pathogens (191 bacteria and 206 viruses) in 215 samples (71.7%). The most frequently detected bacteria were Escherichia coli H7, 85 (28.3%); followed by Aeromonas spp., 43 (14.3%); and Clostridium perfringens, 36 (12.0%) samples. The most prevalent viruses were Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), 90 (30.0%); followed by human herpes virus-6 (HHV-6), 53 (17.7%); and cytomegalovirus (CMV), 37 (12.3%) samples. The prevalence rate of CMV infection was significantly higher in the immunocompromised group than in the immunocompetent group (P < 0.01). CMV infection was more common in patients with UC (26/71; 36.6%) than in the immunocompetent patients excluding UC (6/188; 3.2%) (P < 0.01). CMV infection was more prevalent in UC active patients (25/58; 43.1%) than in UC inactive patients (1/13; 7.7%) (P < 0.05). Among 4 groups which defined by the UC activity and immunosuppressive drugs, the prevalence rate of CMV infection was highest in the UC active patients with immunosuppressive drugs (19/34; 55.8%). Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection was more common in the immunocompromised patients excluding UC (18/41; 43.9%) than in the immunocompetent patients excluding UC (47/188; 25.0%) (P < 0.05). The simultaneous presence of CMV and EBV and/or HHV6 in UC active patients (14/58; 24.1%) was greater than in immunocompromised patients excluding UC (5/41; 12.2%) (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The multiplex PCR assay that was used to analyze the stool samples in this study may serve as a non-invasive approach that can be used to exclude the possibility of CMV infection in patients with active UC who are treated with immunosuppressive therapy. PMID:26640344

Silicon carbide semiconductor technology for high temperature and radiation environments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Matus, Lawrence G.

1993-01-01

Viewgraphs on silicon carbide semiconductor technology and its potential for enabling electronic devices to function in high temperature and high radiation environments are presented. Topics covered include silicon carbide; sublimation growth of 6H-SiC boules; SiC chemical vapor deposition reaction system; 6H silicon carbide p-n junction diode; silicon carbide MOSFET; and silicon carbide JFET radiation response.

Stability and adaptability of popcorn genotypes in the State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

PubMed

Pena, G F; do Amaral, A T; Gonçalves, L S A; Candido, L S; Vittorazzi, C; Ribeiro, R M; Freitas, S P

2012-08-31

This study aimed to obtain estimates of stability and adaptability of phase launched materials and materials recommended in the country, for the northern and northwestern regions of Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil, and made a comparative analysis of different methods to evaluate stability and adaptability of grain yield and popping expansion. To this end, 10 genotypes were evaluated (UNB2U-C3, UNB2U-C4, BRS Angela, Viçosa, Beija-Flor, IAC 112, IAC 125, Zélia, Jade, and UFVM2 Barão de Viçosa) in five environments. The Yates and Cochran method revealed that genotypes UFV2M Barão de Viçosa, BRS Angela and UNB2U-C3 were the most stable for grain yield. This method also indicated superiority of genotypes UNB2U-C3, UNB2U-C4, BRS Angela, Viçosa, IAC 125, and Zélia for popping expansion. The Plaisted and Peterson and Wricke methods demonstrated that genotypes Zélia and UNB2U-C4 were the most productive and stable. These methods indicated genotypes UNB2U-C3 and BRS Angela as the most stable for popping expansion. The Kang and Phan ranking system uses methods based on analysis of variance and classified population UNB2U-C4 as the genotype with the highest stability of grain production and confirmed cultivar BRS Angela as the most stable for popping expansion. Genotypes IAC 112 and UNB2U-C4 were the most stable and adapted for grain yield, according to the Lin and Binns method. The P(i) statistics also ranked UNB2U-C3 and UNB2U-C4 as the genotypes with the best predictability and capacity for popping expansion.

Thiopurine Therapy Reduces the Incidence of Colorectal Neoplasia in Patients with Ulcerative Colitis. Data from the ENEIDA Registry.

PubMed

Gordillo, Jordi; Cabré, Eduard; Garcia-Planella, Esther; Ricart, Elena; Ber-Nieto, Yolanda; Márquez, Lucía; Rodríguez-Moranta, Francisco; Ponferrada, Ángel; Vera, Isabel; Gisbert, Javier P; Barrio, Jesús; Esteve, Maria; Merino, Olga; Muñoz, Fernando; Domènech, Eugeni

2015-12-01

Patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) are at increased risk of developing colorectal cancer (CRC), but recent studies suggest a lower risk than previously reported. The aim was to evaluate the incidence of dysplasia, CRC and related risk factors in UC patients from a Spanish nationwide database. All UC patients were identified and retrospectively reviewed. Clinical-epidemiological data and the finding of dysplasia and/or CRC were collected. A total of 831 UC patients were included. Twenty-six cases of CRC in 26 patients and 29 cases of high-grade dysplasia (HGD) in 24 patients were found, accounting for 55 diagnoses of advanced neoplasia (AN = CRC and/or HGD) in 45 patients (33% of them within the first 8 years after UC diagnosis). The cumulative risk of AN was 2, 5.3 and 14.7% at 10, 20 and 30 years, respectively. Concomitant primary sclerosing cholangitis (odds ratio [OR] 10.90; 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.75-31.76, p < 0.001), extensive UC (OR 2.10, 95% CI 1.01-4.38, p = 0.048), UC diagnosis at an older age (OR 2.23, 95% CI 1.03-4.83, p = 0.043) and appendectomy prior to UC diagnosis (OR 2.66, 95% CI 1.06-6.71, p = 0.038) were independent risk factors for AN. Use of thiopurines (OR 0.21, 95% CI 0.06-0.74, p = 0.015) and being in a surveillance colonoscopy programme (OR 0.33; 95% CI 0.16-0.67; p = 0.002) were independent protective factors for AN. The risk of AN among UC patients is lower than previously reported but steadily increases from the time of UC diagnosis. The widespread use of thiopurines may have influenced this reduced incidence of UC-related neoplasias. Copyright © 2015 European Crohn’s and Colitis Organisation (ECCO). Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Covered Metallic Stents With an Anti-Migration Design vs. Uncovered Stents for the Palliation of Malignant Gastric Outlet Obstruction: A Multicenter, Randomized Trial

PubMed Central

Lee, Hyuk; Min, Byung-Hoon; Lee, Jeong Hoon; Shin, Cheol Min; Kim, Younjoo; Chung, Hyunsoo; Lee, Sang Hyub

2015-01-01

OBJECTIVES: Previous studies reported comparable stent patency between covered self-expandable metallic stents (SEMS) and uncovered SEMS (UCS) for palliation of malignant gastric outlet obstruction (GOO). The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the newly developed WAVE-covered SEMS (WCS), which has an anti-migration design, compared with UCS in gastric cancer patients with symptomatic GOO. METHODS: A total of 102 inoperable gastric cancer patients with symptomatic GOO were prospectively enrolled from five referral centers and randomized to undergo UCS or WCS placement. Stent patency and recurrence of obstructive symptoms were assessed at 8 weeks and 16 weeks after stent placement. RESULTS: At the 8-week follow-up, both stent patency rates (72.5% vs. 62.7%) and re-intervention rates (19.6% vs. 19.6%) were comparable between the WCS and the UCS groups. Both stent stenosis (2.4% vs. 8.1%) and migration rates (9.5% vs. 5.4%) were comparable between WCS and UCS groups. At the 16-week follow-up, however, the WCS group had a significantly higher stent patency rate than the UCS group (68.6% vs. 41.2%). Re-intervention rates in the WCS and UCS groups were 23.5% and 39.2%, respectively. Compared with the UCS group, the WCS group had a significantly lower stent restenosis rate (7.1% vs. 37.8%) and a comparable migration rate (9.5% vs. 5.4%). Overall stent patency was significantly longer in the WCS group than in the UCS group. No stent-associated significant adverse events occurred in either the WCS or UCS groups. In the multivariate analysis, WCS placement and chemotherapy were identified as independent predictors of 16-week stent patency. CONCLUSIONS: WCS group showed comparable migration rate and significantly more durable long-term stent patency compared with UCS group for the palliation of GOO in patients with inoperable gastric cancer. PMID:26372507

Carbides Evolution in a Ni-16Mo-7Cr Base Superalloy during Long-Term Thermal Exposure

PubMed Central

Han, Fenfen; Jiang, Li; Ye, Xiangxi; Lu, Yanling; Li, Zhijun; Zhou, Xingtai

2017-01-01

The effect of long-term thermal exposure on the carbide evolution in a Ni-16Mo-7Cr base superalloy was investigated. The results show that M12C carbides are mainly precipitated on the grain boundaries during thermal exposure, and the primary massive M6C carbides can be completely transformed to M12C carbides in situ at temperatures above 750 °C for long-term thermal exposure. The transformation from M6C carbides to M12C carbides is attributed to the release of C atoms from M6C, which results in the morphology changes of massive carbides, and stabilization of the sizes of M12C carbides precipitated on the grain boundaries. PMID:28772881

Transplanted Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells Modify the In Vivo Microenvironment Enhancing Angiogenesis and Leading to Bone Regeneration

PubMed Central

Todeschi, Maria Rosa; El Backly, Rania; Capelli, Chiara; Daga, Antonio; Patrone, Eugenio; Introna, Martino; Cancedda, Ranieri

2015-01-01

Umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs) show properties similar to bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs), although controversial data exist regarding their osteogenic potential. We prepared clinical-grade UC-MSCs from Wharton's Jelly and we investigated if UC-MSCs could be used as substitutes for BM-MSCs in muscoloskeletal regeneration as a more readily available and functional source of MSCs. UC-MSCs were loaded onto scaffolds and implanted subcutaneously (ectopically) and in critical-sized calvarial defects (orthotopically) in mice. For live cell-tracking experiments, UC-MSCs were first transduced with the luciferase gene. Angiogenic properties of UC-MSCs were tested using the mouse metatarsal angiogenesis assay. Cell secretomes were screened for the presence of various cytokines using an array assay. Analysis of implanted scaffolds showed that UC-MSCs, contrary to BM-MSCs, remained detectable in the implants for 3 weeks at most and did not induce bone formation in an ectopic location. Instead, they induced a significant increase of blood vessel ingrowth. In agreement with these observations, UC-MSC-conditioned medium presented a distinct and stronger proinflammatory/chemotactic cytokine profile than BM-MSCs and a significantly enhanced angiogenic activity. When UC-MSCs were orthotopically transplanted in a calvarial defect, they promoted increased bone formation as well as BM-MSCs. However, at variance with BM-MSCs, the new bone was deposited through the activity of stimulated host cells, highlighting the importance of the microenvironment on determining cell commitment and response. Therefore, we propose, as therapy for bone lesions, the use of allogeneic UC-MSCs by not depositing bone matrix directly, but acting through the activation of endogenous repair mechanisms. PMID:25685989

Healthcare Utilisation and Drug Treatment in a Large Cohort of Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease

PubMed Central

Wettermark, Björn; Löfberg, Robert; Eriksson, Irene; Sundström, Johan; Lördal, Mikael

2016-01-01

Background and Aims: Crohn’s disease [CD] and ulcerative colitis [UC] are chronic diseases associated with a substantial utilisation of healthcare resources. We aimed to estimate the prevalence of inflammatory bowel disease [IBD], CD, and UC and to describe and compare healthcare utilisation and drug treatment in CD and UC patients. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study of all patients with a recorded IBD diagnosis in Stockholm County, Sweden. Data on outpatient visits, hospitalisations, surgeries, and drug treatment during 2013 were analysed. Results: A total of 13 916 patients with IBD were identified, corresponding to an overall IBD prevalence of 0.65% [CD 0.27%, UC 0.35%, inflammatory bowel disease unclassified 0.04%]; 49% of all IBD patients were treated with IBD-related drugs. Only 3.6% of the patients received high-dose corticosteroids, whereas 32.4% were treated with aminosalicylates [CD 21.2%, UC 41.0%, p < 0.0001]. More CD patients were treated with biologicals compared with UC patients [CD 9.6%, UC 2.9%, p < 0.0001] and surgery was significantly more common among CD patients [CD 3.0%, UC 0.8%, p < 0.0001]. Conclusions: This study indicates that patients with CD are the group with the highest medical needs. Patients with CD utilised significantly more healthcare resources [including outpatient visits, hospitalisations, and surgeries] than UC patients. Twice as many CD patients received immunomodulators compared with UC patients and CD patients were treated with biologicals three times more often. These results highlight that CD remains a challenge and further efforts are needed to improve care in these patients. PMID:26733406

Prevalence of inflammatory bowel disease in two districts of Sri Lanka: a hospital based survey

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Background Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is being increasingly diagnosed in Asia. However there are few epidemiological data from the region. Methods To determine prevalence and clinical characteristics of IBD, a hospital-based survey was performed in the Colombo and Gampaha districts (combined population 4.5 million) in Sri Lanka. Patients with established ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD), who were permanent residents of these adjoining districts, were recruited from hospital registries and out-patient clinics. Clinical information was obtained from medical records and patient interviews. Results There were 295 cases of IBD (UC = 240, CD = 55), of which 34 (UC = 30, CD = 4) were newly diagnosed during the study year. The prevalence rate for UC was 5.3/100,000 (95% CI 5.0-5.6/100,000), and CD was 1.2/100,000 (95% CI 1.0-1.4/100,000). The incidence rates were 0.69/100,000 (95% CI 0.44-0.94/100,000) for UC and 0.09/100,000 (95% CI 0.002-0.18/100,000) for CD. Female:male ratios were 1.5 for UC and 1.0 for CD. Mean age at diagnosis was (males and females) 36.6 and 38.1y for UC and 33.4 and 36.2y for CD. Among UC patients, 51.1% had proctitis and at presentation 58.4% had mild disease. 80% of CD patients had only large bowel involvement. Few patients had undergone surgery. Conclusions The prevalence of IBD in this population was low compared to Western populations, but similar to some in Asia. There was a female preponderance for UC. UC was mainly mild, distal or left-sided, while CD mainly involved the large bowel. PMID:20302651

Are HLA-DR or TAP genes genetic markers of severity in ulcerative colitis?

PubMed

Heresbach, D; Alizadeh, M; Reumaux, D; Colombel, J F; Delamaire, M; Danze, P M; Gosselin, M; Genetet, B; Bretagne, J F; Semana, G

1996-12-01

The pathogeny of ulcerative colitis (UC) is not yet elucidated, but some arguments suggest the implication of genetic factors. Among the candidate genes, those encoding for HLA class II genotypes have been extensively studied in UC; however, discordant data may be imputable to heterogeneity, characterized by immunological markers such as atypical ANCA (p-ANCA), or to inclusion of more or less intractable UC. The aim of our study is to evaluate the interest of HLA class II and TAP genetic markers to identify different clinical forms of UC, according to p-ANCA status. Unrelated patients with a history of UC (n = 91) and healthy control subjects with no personal or family history of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) (n = 200) were included. HLA-DRB1*03 was less frequent in UC patients than in healthy controls (8% vs 28%, PC < 0.03). No association was found with any TAP genotypes. Moreover, there was no association with the HLA-DR2 specificity, either in the entire group of UC patients (38% vs 28%) or in the p-ANCA-positive subgroup of patients (30%). The most consistent finding in the present study is that some genetic markers may characterize intractability in UC patients. HLA-DR2 was associated with poor prognosis, regardless of p-ANCA status. In HLA-DR2 and non-HLA-DR2 groups, colectomy was done in 55% and 27% of patients, respectively, (PC < 0.05). Furthermore, in non-HLA-DR2 patients, p-ANCA could be of interest to characterize those with more severe prognosis. Our results confirm the interest of genetic studies to define UC genetic susceptibility, taking into account intractability of the disease. They do not support the hypothesis that p-ANCA is a subclinical marker of genetic susceptibility to UC.

Association of Clinical Features with Human Leukocyte Antigen in Japanese Patients with Ulcerative Colitis.

PubMed

Iwamoto, Taku; Yashima, Kazuo; Morio, Keiko; Ueda, Naoki; Ikebuchi, Yuichiro; Kawaguchi, Koichiro; Harada, Kenichi; Isomoto, Hajime

2018-03-01

The human leukocyte antigen (HLA) region has been found to be involved in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which is classified into ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD), by genome-wide association studies. The aim of this study was to confirm whether HLA-alleles confer susceptibility to UC and to determine whether HLA-allel1es are associated with the clinical phenotypes in Japanese patients with UC. In this study, HLA typing was performed by PCR-sequence-specific oligonucleotides (PCR-SSO) to confirm the correlation between UC and HLA alleles (for HLA-A, B, DRB1) in 45 Japanese UC patients. In addition, whether the HLA alleles are related to patient and clinical background characteristics was examined. Overall, 62.2%, and 66.7% of the 45 UC patients had HLA-B*52 and HLA-DRB1*15, respectively. These allele frequencies were significantly higher than in previously reported Japanese control persons ( P < 0.0001). The frequencies of extraintestinal manifestations [odds ratio (OR) = 0.12, P = 0.039] and a history of colectomy (OR = 0.18, P = 0.046) were lower in HLA-B*52-positive UC patients than in HLA-B*52 negative UC patients. The white blood cell (WBC) count was significantly higher in HLA-DRB1*15-positive patients (9430 ± 4592/μL) than in HLA-DRB1*15-negative patients (6729 ± 2160/μL). Thus, HLA-B*52 and DRB1*15 appear to be associated with disease features and severity in Japanese UC patients. These results indicate that HLA-B*52 and DRB1*15 are not only associated with overall UC susceptibility, but also with the clinical phenotypes in Japanese patients.

Ultrasonic scalpel causes greater depth of soft tissue necrosis compared to monopolar electrocautery at standard power level settings in a pig model

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Ultrasonic scalpel (UC) and monopolar electrocautery (ME) are common tools for soft tissue dissection. However, morphological data on the related tissue alteration are discordant. We developed an automatic device for standardized sample excision and compared quality and depth of morphological changes caused by UC and ME in a pig model. Methods 100 tissue samples (5 × 3 cm) of the abdominal wall were excised in 16 pigs. Excisions were randomly performed manually or by using the self-constructed automatic device at standard power levels (60 W cutting in ME, level 5 in UC) for abdominal surgery. Quality of tissue alteration and depth of coagulation necrosis were examined histopathologically. Device (UC vs. ME) and mode (manually vs. automatic) effects were studied by two-way analysis of variance at a significance level of 5%. Results At the investigated power level settings UC and ME induced qualitatively similar coagulation necroses. Mean depth of necrosis was 450.4 ± 457.8 μm for manual UC and 553.5 ± 326.9 μm for automatic UC versus 149.0 ± 74.3 μm for manual ME and 257.6 ± 119.4 μm for automatic ME. Coagulation necrosis was significantly deeper (p < 0.01) when UC was used compared to ME. The mode of excision (manual versus automatic) did not influence the depth of necrosis (p = 0.85). There was no significant interaction between dissection tool and mode of excision (p = 0.93). Conclusions Thermal injury caused by UC and ME results in qualitatively similar coagulation necrosis. The depth of necrosis is significantly greater in UC compared to ME at investigated standard power levels. PMID:22361346

Ultrasonic scalpel causes greater depth of soft tissue necrosis compared to monopolar electrocautery at standard power level settings in a pig model.

PubMed

Homayounfar, Kia; Meis, Johanna; Jung, Klaus; Klosterhalfen, Bernd; Sprenger, Thilo; Conradi, Lena-Christin; Langer, Claus; Becker, Heinz

2012-02-23

Ultrasonic scalpel (UC) and monopolar electrocautery (ME) are common tools for soft tissue dissection. However, morphological data on the related tissue alteration are discordant. We developed an automatic device for standardized sample excision and compared quality and depth of morphological changes caused by UC and ME in a pig model. 100 tissue samples (5 × 3 cm) of the abdominal wall were excised in 16 pigs. Excisions were randomly performed manually or by using the self-constructed automatic device at standard power levels (60 W cutting in ME, level 5 in UC) for abdominal surgery. Quality of tissue alteration and depth of coagulation necrosis were examined histopathologically. Device (UC vs. ME) and mode (manually vs. automatic) effects were studied by two-way analysis of variance at a significance level of 5%. At the investigated power level settings UC and ME induced qualitatively similar coagulation necroses. Mean depth of necrosis was 450.4 ± 457.8 μm for manual UC and 553.5 ± 326.9 μm for automatic UC versus 149.0 ± 74.3 μm for manual ME and 257.6 ± 119.4 μm for automatic ME. Coagulation necrosis was significantly deeper (p < 0.01) when UC was used compared to ME. The mode of excision (manual versus automatic) did not influence the depth of necrosis (p = 0.85). There was no significant interaction between dissection tool and mode of excision (p = 0.93). Thermal injury caused by UC and ME results in qualitatively similar coagulation necrosis. The depth of necrosis is significantly greater in UC compared to ME at investigated standard power levels.

IL-23R mutation is associated with ulcerative colitis: A systemic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Peng, Ling-Long; Wang, Ying; Zhu, Feng-Ling; Xu, Wang-Dong; Ji, Xue-Lei; Ni, Jing

2017-01-17

Since a genome-wide association study revealed that Interleukin-23 receptor (IL-23R) gene is a candidate gene for Ulcerative Colitis (UC), many studies have investigated the association between the IL-23R polymorphisms and UC. However, the results were controversial. The aim of the study was to determine whether the IL-23R polymorphisms confer susceptibility to UC. A systematic literature search was carried out to identify all potentially relevant studies. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to estimate the strength of association. A total of 33 studies in 32 articles, including 10,527 UC cases and 15,142 healthy controls, were finally involved in the meta-analysis. Overall, a significant association was found between all UC cases and the rs11209026A allele (OR = 0.665, 95% CI = 0.604~0.733, P < 0.001). Similarly, meta-analyses of the rs7517847, rs1004819, rs10889677, rs2201841, rs11209032, rs1495965, rs1343151 and rs11465804 polymorphisms also indicated significant association with all UC (all P < 0.05). Stratification by ethnicity revealed that the rs11209026, rs7517847, rs10889677, rs2201841 andrs11465804 polymorphisms were associated with UC in the Caucasian group, but not in Asians, while the rs1004819 and rs11209032 polymorphisms were found to be related to UC for both Caucasian and Asian groups. However, subgroup analysis failed to unveil any association between the rs1495965 and rs1343151 polymorphisms and UC in Caucasians or Asians. The meta-analysis suggests significant association between IL-23R polymorphisms and UC, especially in Caucasians.

AKT Pathway Affects Bone Regeneration in Nonunion Treated with Umbilical Cord-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells.

PubMed

Qu, Zhiguo; Guo, Shengnan; Fang, Guojun; Cui, Zhenghong; Liu, Ying

2015-04-01

We have previously grafted human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs) with blood plasma to treat rat tibia nonunion. To further examine the biological characteristics of this process, we applied an established hUC-MSCs-treated rat nonunion model with the addition of an inhibitor of AKT. SD rats (80) were randomly divided into four groups: a fracture group (positive control); a nonunion group (negative control); a hUC-MSCs grafting with blood plasma group; and a hUC-MSCs grafting with blood plasma & AKT blocker group. The animals were sacrificed under deep anesthesia at 4 and 8 weeks post fracture for analysis. The fracture line became less defined at 4 weeks and disappeared at 8 weeks postoperatively in both the hUC-MSCs grafting with blood plasma and grafting with blood plasma & the AKT blocker, which is similar to the fracture group. Histological immunofluorescence studies showed that the numbers of hUC-MSCs in the calluses were significantly higher in the hUC-MSCs grafting with blood plasma than those in group with the AKT blocker. More bone morphogenetic protein 2 and bone sialoprotein expression and less osteoprotegerin and bone gla protein expression were observed in the AKT blocker group compared to the hUC-MSCs grafting with blood plasma. AKT gene expression in the AKT blocker group was decreased 50% compared to the hUC-MSCs with plasma group and decreased 70% compared to the fracture group, while the elastic modulus was decreased. In summary, our work demonstrates that AKT may play a role in modulating osteogenesis induced by hUC-MSCs.

Increased small intestinal permeability in ulcerative colitis: rather genetic than environmental and a risk factor for extensive disease?

PubMed

Büning, Carsten; Geissler, Nora; Prager, Matthias; Sturm, Andreas; Baumgart, Daniel C; Büttner, Janine; Bühner, Sabine; Haas, Verena; Lochs, Herbert

2012-10-01

A disturbed epithelial barrier could play a pivotal role in ulcerative colitis (UC). We performed a family-based study analyzing in vivo gastrointestinal permeability in patients with UC, their healthy relatives, spouses, and controls. In total, 89 patients with UC in remission, 35 first-degree relatives (UC-R), 24 nonrelated spouses (UC-NR), and 99 healthy controls (HC) were studied. Permeability was assessed by a sugar-drink test using sucrose (gastroduodenal permeability), lactulose/mannitol (intestinal permeability), and sucralose (colonic permeability). Data were correlated with clinical characteristics including medical treatment. Increased intestinal permeability was detected significantly more often in UC patients in remission (25/89, 28.1%) compared with HC (6/99, 6.1%; P < 0.001). Similar results were obtained in UC-R (7/35, 20.0%; P = 0.01 compared with HC) regardless of sharing the same household with the patients or not. No difference was found between UC-NR (3/24, 12.5%) and HC. Notably, in UC patients increased intestinal permeability was found in 12/28 patients (42.9%) with pancolitis, 7/30 (23.3%) patients with left-sided colitis, and in 2/19 (10.5%) patients with proctitis (P = 0.04). Gastroduodenal and colonic permeability were similar in all groups. Among patients on azathioprine, increased intestinal permeability was only seen in 1/18 (5.6%) patients. In contrast, in 24/70 (34.3%) patients without azathioprine, an increased intestinal permeability was found (P = 0.005). An increased intestinal but not colonic permeability was found in UC patients in clinical remission that could mark a new risk factor for extensive disease location. Similar findings in healthy relatives but not spouses suggest that this barrier defect is genetically determined. Copyright © 2012 Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America, Inc.

IL-23R mutation is associated with ulcerative colitis: A systemic review and meta-analysis

PubMed Central

Peng, Ling-Long; Wang, Ying; Zhu, Feng-Ling; Xu, Wang-Dong; Ji, Xue-Lei; Ni, Jing

2017-01-01

Objectives Since a genome-wide association study revealed that Interleukin-23 receptor (IL-23R) gene is a candidate gene for Ulcerative Colitis (UC), many studies have investigated the association between the IL-23R polymorphisms and UC. However, the results were controversial. The aim of the study was to determine whether the IL-23R polymorphisms confer susceptibility to UC. Methods A systematic literature search was carried out to identify all potentially relevant studies. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to estimate the strength of association. Results A total of 33 studies in 32 articles, including 10,527 UC cases and 15,142 healthy controls, were finally involved in the meta-analysis. Overall, a significant association was found between all UC cases and the rs11209026A allele (OR = 0.665, 95% CI = 0.604~0.733, P < 0.001). Similarly, meta-analyses of the rs7517847, rs1004819, rs10889677, rs2201841, rs11209032, rs1495965, rs1343151 and rs11465804 polymorphisms also indicated significant association with all UC (all P < 0.05). Stratification by ethnicity revealed that the rs11209026, rs7517847, rs10889677, rs2201841 andrs11465804 polymorphisms were associated with UC in the Caucasian group, but not in Asians, while the rs1004819 and rs11209032 polymorphisms were found to be related to UC for both Caucasian and Asian groups. However, subgroup analysis failed to unveil any association between the rs1495965 and rs1343151 polymorphisms and UC in Caucasians or Asians. Conclusions The meta-analysis suggests significant association between IL-23R polymorphisms and UC, especially in Caucasians. PMID:27902482

Meta-analysis of the association between appendiceal orifice inflammation and appendectomy and ulcerative colitis.

PubMed

Deng, Peng; Wu, Junchao

2016-07-01

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between appendiceal orifice inflammation (AOI) and appendectomy and ulcerative colitis (UC) by a meta-analysis. Databases were thoroughly searched for studies on AOI and UC up to January 2016. Three comparisons were performed: a) whether the previous appendectomy was a risk factor of UC; b) influence of appendectomy on UC courses; c) influence of AOI on UC severity. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were the effects sizes. The merging of results and publication bias assessment were performed by using RevMan 5.3. Sensitivity analysis was conducted using Stata 12.0. Nineteen studies were selected in the present study. Results of comparison I showed that appendectomy was a protective factor of UC (OR = 0.44; 95% CI [0.30, 0.64]). Comparison II indicated appendectomy had no significant influence in the courses of UC (proctitis: OR = 1.03, 95% CI [0.74, 1.42]; left-sided colitis: OR = 1.01, 95% CI [0.73, 1.39]; pancolitis: OR = 0.92, 95% CI [0.59, 1.43]; colectomy: OR = 1.38, 95% CI [0.62, 3.04]). Comparison III indicated UC combined with AOI did not affect the courses of UC (proctitis: OR = 1.15, 95% CI [0.67, 1.98]; left-sided colitis: OR = 1.14, 95% CI [0.24, 5.42]; colectomy: OR = 0.36, 95% CI [0.10, 1.23]). Sensitivity analysis confirmed the robust of the results in the present study. In conclusion, this meta-analysis indicated appendectomy can reduce the risk of UC. But appendectomy or AOI had no influence on the severity of the disease and the effect of surgical treatment.

Associations between NRAMP1 Polymorphisms and Susceptibility to Ulcerative Colitis/Crohn's Disease: A Meta-Analysis.

PubMed

Sun, Manyi; Zhang, Li; Shi, Songli

2016-01-01

Multiple environmental and genetic factors contribute to the risks of ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD). Several allelic variants have been identified in natural resistance associated macrophage protein 1 (NRAMP1) gene; however, their association with UC/CD remains conflicting. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether NRAMP1 polymorphisms are associated with the susceptibility to UC/CD. A meta-analysis on the association between the NRAMP1 polymorphisms and susceptibility to UC/CD was performed. Relevant studies were retrieved from the databases. After eligible data were extracted, Mantel-Haenszel statistics and random/fixed effects model were applied to calculate the pooled odds radio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI). Seven articles containing 536 UC cases, 997 CD cases, and 1361 controls were collected. No significant association between allele 2 frequency of NRAMP1 and susceptibility to UC/CD was detected in overall population (all p > 0.05). However, increased UC/CD risk for allele 3 was observed in Caucasian population (OR = 1.27, 95% CI = 1.08~1.50, p = 0.04), whereas decreased UC/CD risk was detected in non-Caucasian population (OR = 0.72, 95% CI = 0.60~0.87, p < 0.001), under "allele 3 vs. other alleles" model. Moreover, a significant increase in CD risk for T carrier frequency of -237 C/T (OR = 0.44, 95% CI, 0.26~0.75, p = 0.003) was detected, but not 274 C/T and 1729+55del4 (TGTG) +/del. The polymorphism of -237 C/T is related to the risk of CD; and the association of allele 3 with UC/CD risk differs in Caucasian and non-Caucasian population, which might be the potential biomarkers for clinical diagnosis of UC/CD.

Efficacy of oral vs. topical, or combined oral and topical 5-aminosalicylates, in Ulcerative Colitis: systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Ford, Alexander C; Khan, Khurram J; Achkar, Jean-Paul; Moayyedi, Paul

2012-02-01

Efficacy of 5-aminosalicylic acids (5-ASAs) in ulcerative colitis (UC) has been studied previously in meta-analyses. However, no recent meta-analysis has studied the relative efficacies of differing routes of administration. MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane central register of controlled trials were searched (through May 2011). Eligible trials recruited adults with mildly to moderately active UC, or quiescent UC, and compared oral 5-ASAs with either topical 5-ASAs or a combination of oral and topical 5-ASAs. Dichotomous data were pooled to obtain relative risk (RR) of failure to achieve remission in active UC, and RR of relapse of disease activity in quiescent UC, with a 95% confidence interval (CI). The number needed to treat (NNT) was calculated from the reciprocal of the risk difference. The search identified 3,061 citations, and 12 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were eligible. Four compared topical with oral 5-ASAs in active UC remission, with an RR of no remission with topical 5-ASAs of 0.82 (95% CI=0.52-1.28). Four trials compared combined with oral 5-ASAs in active UC (RR of no remission=0.65; 95% CI=0.47-0.91; NNT=5). Three RCTs compared intermittent topical with oral 5-ASAs in preventing relapse of quiescent UC (RR=0.64; 95% CI=0.43-0.95; NNT=4), and two compared combined with oral 5-ASAs (RR of relapse=0.48; 95% CI=0.17-1.38). Combined 5-ASA therapy appeared superior to oral 5-ASAs for induction of remission of mildly to moderately active UC. Intermittent topical 5-ASAs appeared superior to oral 5-ASAs for preventing relapse of quiescent UC.

Ulcerative colitis in smokers, non-smokers and ex-smokers

PubMed Central

Bastida, Guillermo; Beltrán, Belén

2011-01-01

Smoking is a major environmental factor that interferes in the establishment and clinical course of ulcerative colitis (UC). Firstly, the risk of smoking status impact in the development of UC is reviewed, showing that current smoking has a protective association with UC. Similarly, being a former smoker is associated with an increased risk of UC. The concept that smoking could have a role in determining the inflammatory bowel disease phenotype is also discussed. Gender may also be considered, as current smoking delays disease onset in men but not in women. No clear conclusions can be driven from the studies trying to clarify whether childhood passive smoking or prenatal smoke exposure have an influence on the development of UC, mainly due to methodology flaws. The influence of smoking on disease course is the second aspect analysed. Some studies show a disease course more benign in smokers that in non-smokers, with lower hospitalizations rates, less flare-ups, lower use of oral steroids and even less risk of proximal extension. This is not verified by some other studies. Similarly, the rate of colectomy does not seem to be determined by the smoking status of the patient. The third issue reviewed is the use of nicotine as a therapeutic agent. The place of nicotine in the treatment of UC is unclear, although it could be useful in selected cases, particularly in recent ex-smokers with moderate but refractory attacks of UC. Finally, the effect of smoking cessation in UC patients is summarised. Given that smoking represents a major worldwide cause of death, for inpatients with UC the risks of smoking far outweigh any possible benefit. Thus, physicians should advise, encourage and assist UC patients who smoke to quit. PMID:21734782

Investigation of Crohn’s Disease Risk Loci in Ulcerative Colitis Further Defines Their Molecular Relationship

PubMed Central

ANDERSON, CARL A.; MASSEY, DUNECAN C. O.; BARRETT, JEFFREY C.; PRESCOTT, NATALIE J.; TREMELLING, MARK; FISHER, SHEILA A.; GWILLIAM, RHIAN; JACOB, JEMIMA; NIMMO, ELAINE R.; DRUMMOND, HAZEL; LEES, CHARLIE W.; ONNIE, CLIVE M.; HANSON, CATHERINE; BLASZCZYK, KATARZYNA; RAVINDRARAJAH, RADHI; HUNT, SARAH; VARMA, DHIRAJ; HAMMOND, NAOMI; LEWIS, GREGORY; ATTLESEY, HEATHER; WATKINS, NICK; OUWEHAND, WILLEM; STRACHAN, DAVID; MCARDLE, WENDY; LEWIS, CATHRYN M.; LOBO, ALAN; SANDERSON, JEREMY; JEWELL, DEREK P.; DELOUKAS, PANOS; MANSFIELD, JOHN C.; MATHEW, CHRISTOPHER G.; SATSANGI, JACK; PARKES, MILES

2009-01-01

Background & Aims Identifying shared and disease-specific susceptibility loci for Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) would help define the biologic relationship between the inflammatory bowel diseases. More than 30 CD susceptibility loci have been identified. These represent important candidate susceptibility loci for UC. Loci discovered by the index genome scans in CD have previously been tested for association with UC, but those identified in the recent meta-analysis await such investigation. Furthermore, the recently identified UC locus at ECM1 requires formal testing for association with CD. Methods We analyzed 45 single nucleotide polymorphisms, tagging 29 of the loci recently associated with CD in 2527 UC cases and 4070 population controls. We also genotyped the UC-associated ECM1 variant rs11205387 in 1560 CD patients and 3028 controls. Results Nine regions showed association with UC at a threshold corrected for the 29 loci tested (P < .0017). The strongest association (P = 4.13 × 10-8; odds ratio = 1.27) was identified with a 170-kilobase region on chromosome 1q32 that contains 3 genes. We also found association with JAK2 and replicated a recently reported association with STAT3, further implicating the role of this signaling pathway in inflammatory bowel disease. Additional novel UC susceptibility genes were LYRM4 and CDKAL1. Twenty of the loci were not associated with UC, and several appear to be specific to CD. ECM1 variation was not associated with CD. Conclusions Collectively, these data help define the genetic relationship between CD and UC and characterize common, as well as disease-specific mechanisms of pathogenesis. PMID:19068216

Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stromal cells suppress MHC class II expression on rat vascular endothelium and prolong survival time of cardiac allograft

PubMed Central

Qiu, Ying; Yun, Mark M; Han, Xia; Zhao, Ruidong; Zhou, Erxia; Yun, Sheng

2014-01-01

Background: Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stromal cells (UC-MSCs) have low immunogenicity and immune regulation. To investigate immunomodulatory effects of human UC-MSCs on MHC class II expression and allograft, we transplanted heart of transgenic rats with MHC class II expression on vascular endothelium. Methods: UC-MSCs were obtained from human umbilical cords and confirmed with flow cytometry analysis. Transgenic rat line was established using the construct of human MHC class II transactivator gene (CIITA) under mouse ICAM-2 promoter control. The induced MHC class II expression on transgenic rat vascular endothelial cells (VECs) was assessed with immunohistological staining. And the survival time of cardiac allograft was compared between the recipients with and without UC-MSC transfusion. Results: Flow cytometry confirmed that the human UC-MSCs were positive for CD29, CD44, CD73, CD90, CD105, CD271, and negative for CD34 and HLA-DR. Repeated infusion of human UC-MSCs reduced MHC class II expression on vascular endothelia of transplanted hearts, and increased survival time of allograft. The UC-MSCs increased regulatory cytokines IL10, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 and suppressed proinflammatory cytokines IL2 and IFN-γ in vivo. The UC-MSC culture supernatant had similar effects on cytokine expression, and decreased lymphocyte proliferation in vitro. Conclusions: Repeated transfusion of the human UC-MSCs reduced MHC class II expression on vascular endothelia and prolonged the survival time of rat cardiac allograft. PMID:25126177

Profound loss of neprilysin accompanied by decreased levels of neuropeptides and increased CRP in ulcerative colitis.

PubMed

Sargın, Zeynep Gök; Erin, Nuray; Tazegul, Gokhan; Elpek, Gülsüm Özlem; Yıldırım, Bülent

2017-01-01

Neprilysin (NEP, CD10) acts to limit excessive inflammation partly by hydrolyzing neuropeptides. Although deletion of NEP exacerbates intestinal inflammation in animal models, its role in ulcerative colitis (UC) is not well explored. Herein, we aimed to demonstrate changes in NEP and associated neuropeptides at the same time in colonic tissue. 72 patients with UC and 27 control patients were included. Patients' demographic data and laboratory findings, five biopsy samples from active colitis sites and five samples from uninvolved mucosa were collected. Substance P (SP), calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP) and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) were extracted from freshly frozen tissues and measured using ELISA. Levels of NEP expression were determined using immunohistochemistry and immunoreactivity scores were calculated. GEBOES grading system was also used. We demonstrated a profound loss (69.4%) of NEP expression in UC, whereas all healthy controls had NEP expression. Patients with UC had lower neuronal SP; however non-neuronal SP remained similar. UC patients had also lower neuronal and non-neuronal VIP levels. CGRP were low in general and no significant changes were observed. Additionally, CRP positive patients with UC had higher rates of NEP loss (80% vs 51.9%) and lower SP levels when compared with CRP negative patients with UC. Concurrent decreases in SP and VIP with profound loss of NEP expression observed in UC is likely to be one of the factors in pathogenesis. Further studies are required to define the role of neuropeptides and NEP in UC.

Profound loss of neprilysin accompanied by decreased levels of neuropeptides and increased CRP in ulcerative colitis

PubMed Central

Sargın, Zeynep Gök; Tazegul, Gokhan; Elpek, Gülsüm Özlem; Yıldırım, Bülent

2017-01-01

Neprilysin (NEP, CD10) acts to limit excessive inflammation partly by hydrolyzing neuropeptides. Although deletion of NEP exacerbates intestinal inflammation in animal models, its role in ulcerative colitis (UC) is not well explored. Herein, we aimed to demonstrate changes in NEP and associated neuropeptides at the same time in colonic tissue. 72 patients with UC and 27 control patients were included. Patients’ demographic data and laboratory findings, five biopsy samples from active colitis sites and five samples from uninvolved mucosa were collected. Substance P (SP), calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP) and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) were extracted from freshly frozen tissues and measured using ELISA. Levels of NEP expression were determined using immunohistochemistry and immunoreactivity scores were calculated. GEBOES grading system was also used. We demonstrated a profound loss (69.4%) of NEP expression in UC, whereas all healthy controls had NEP expression. Patients with UC had lower neuronal SP; however non-neuronal SP remained similar. UC patients had also lower neuronal and non-neuronal VIP levels. CGRP were low in general and no significant changes were observed. Additionally, CRP positive patients with UC had higher rates of NEP loss (80% vs 51.9%) and lower SP levels when compared with CRP negative patients with UC. Concurrent decreases in SP and VIP with profound loss of NEP expression observed in UC is likely to be one of the factors in pathogenesis. Further studies are required to define the role of neuropeptides and NEP in UC. PMID:29232715

Immunosuppressive function of mesenchymal stem cells from human umbilical cord matrix in immune thrombocytopenia patients.

PubMed

Ma, Li; Zhou, Zeping; Zhang, Donglei; Yang, Shaoguang; Wang, Jinhong; Xue, Feng; Yang, Yanhui; Yang, Renchi

2012-05-01

Human umbilical cord matrix/Wharton's jelly (hUC)-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) have been shown to have marked therapeutic effects in a number of inflammatory diseases and autoimmune diseases in humans based on their potential for immunosuppression and their low immunogenicity. Currently, no data are available on the effectiveness of UC-MSC transplantation in immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) patients. It was the objective of this study to assess the effect of allogeneic UC-MSCs on ITP patients in vitro and in vivo. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and bone marrow mononuclear cells (BM-MNCs) from ITP patients and healthy controls were co-cultured with UC-MSCs for three days and seven days, respectively. Flow cytometry and ELISA were applied to assess the various parameters. In PBMCs from ITP patients, the proliferation of autoreactive T, B lymphocytes and destruction of autologous platelets were dramatically suppressed by UC-MSCs. UC-MSCs not only suppressed co-stimulatory molecules CD80, CD40L and FasL expression but also in shifting Th1/Th2/Treg cytokines profile in ITP patients. UC-MSCs obviously reversed the dysfunctions of megakaryocytes by promoting platelet production and decreasing the number of living megakaryocytes as well as early apoptosis. In addition, the level of thrombopoietin was increased significantly. Our clinical study showed that UC-MSCs play a role in alleviating refractory ITP by increasing platelet numbers. These findings suggested that UC-MSCs transplantation might be a potential therapy for ITP.

Comparing Electric Shock and a Fearful Screaming Face as Unconditioned Stimuli for Fear Learning

PubMed Central

Glenn, Catherine R.; Lieberman, Lynne; Hajcak, Greg

2012-01-01

The potency of an unconditioned stimulus (UCS) can impact the degree of fear learning. One of the most common and effective UCSs is an electric shock, which is inappropriate for certain populations (e.g., children). To address this need, a novel fear learning paradigm was recently developed that uses a fearful female face and scream as the UCS. The present study directly compared the efficacy of the screaming female UCS and a traditional shock UCS in two fear learning paradigms. Thirty-six young adults completed two fear learning tasks and a measure of trait anxiety; fear learning was indexed with fear-potentiated startle (FPS) and self-reported fear ratings. Results indicated comparable FPS across the two tasks. However, larger overall startle responses were exhibited in the shock task, and participants rated the shock UCS and overall task as more aversive than the screaming female. In addition, trait anxiety was only related to FPS in the fear learning task that employed a shock as the UCS. Taken together, results indicate that, although both UCS paradigms can be used for fear conditioning (i.e., to produce differences between CS+ and CS−), the shock UCS paradigm is more aversive and potentially more sensitive to individual differences in anxiety. PMID:23007035

Avoiding restorative proctocolectomy for colorectal cancer in patients with ulcerative colitis based on preoperative diagnosis involving p53 immunostaining: report of a case.

PubMed

Sada, Haruki; Shimomura, Manabu; Hinoi, Takao; Egi, Hiroyuki; Kawaguchi, Koji; Yano, Takuya; Niitsu, Hiroaki; Saitou, Yasufumi; Sawada, Hiroyuki; Miguchi, Masashi; Adachi, Tomohiro; Ohdan, Hideki

2015-03-26

The standard operation for colitic cancer in ulcerative colitis (UC) is restorative proctocolectomy; however, sporadic colorectal cancer (CRC) can coincidentally arise in patients with UC and the optimal procedure remains controversial. Therefore, it is crucial to preoperatively determine whether the CRC in UC is a sporadic or colitic cancer. We report a case of avoiding proctocolectomy for sporadic CRC in a patient with UC based on preoperative diagnosis involving p53 immunostaining. A 73-year-old man with CRC in UC had undergone sigmoid colectomy with lymphadenectomy because of the submucosal deep invasion pathologically after endoscopic mucosal resection. The cancer was diagnosed sporadic cancer preoperatively not only based on the endoscopic, clinical, and histological patterns but also that the colon epithelium was unlikely to develop dysplasia as the circumference and unaffected UC mucosa did not detect p53 protein overexpression. Recent reports have shown that the immunohistochemical detection of p53 protein overexpression can be useful for a differential diagnosis and as a predictor of dysplasia and colitic cancer. The analysis of p53 mutation status based on immunostaining of p53 protein expression in the unaffected UC mucosa can be useful for the decision regarding a surgical procedure for CRC in patients with UC.

[Expression and clinical significance of 5hmC in bladder urothelial carcinoma].

PubMed

Li, Jie; Xu, Yuqiao; Zhang, Zhiwen; Zhang, Ming; Zhang, Zhekai; Zhang, Feng; Li, Qing

2016-02-01

To investigate the expression of 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) in bladder urothelial carcinoma (UC) and its clinical significance. The expression of 5hmC in 21 cases of UC tissues and pericarcinous urinary tract epithelium was detected by immunohistochemical staining. Then the expression of 5hmC in the surgical resection of UC tissues in 92 cases was also surveyed. Non parametric U Mann-Whitney test was used to analyze the correlation between 5hmC expression and clinical data. Single factor survival analysis was performed by Kaplan-Meier test. The expression of 5hmC in normal urinary tract epithelium and UC tissues was significantly different, but there was no significant difference in the expression of 5hmC between low and high grades of UC tissues as well as between different TNM grades. Kaplan-Meier single factor survival analysis showed that there was no significant correlation between the 5hmC expression level and the survival rate or the recurrence-free survival of UC patients. The expression level of 5hmC in UC tissues is significantly lower than that in pericarcinous urinary tract epithelium. There is no correlation between the 5hmC expression and the progression, prognosis and recurrence of UC.

Professional charges not reimbursed to dentists in the U.S.: evidence from Medical Expenditure Panel Survey, 1996.

PubMed

Chattopadhyay, A; Slade, G D; Caplan, D J

2009-12-01

This cross-sectional study examined professional charges not paid to dentists. This analysis used logistic regression in SUDAAN examining the 1996 MEPS data from 12,931 adults. Among people incurring dental care charges, 13.6% had more than $50 of unpaid charge (UC). The percapita UC was $53.30. Total UC was higher for highest income group [45.4% of total] compared to lowest income group [26.0%]. The percapita UC of $76.70 for low income group was significantly greater than for high income group ($47.80, P < 0.01). More Medicaid recipients (52% vs. non-recipients: 12%) incurred at least $50 in UC (P < 0.01). Adjusted odds of incurring UC were greater for those employed (OR = 1.3, 95% CI: 1.0-1.7), and for those with private insurance (OR: 1.5, CI: 1.3-1.9). Number of dental procedure types modified the association between Medicaid recipient and UC (OR = 13.6 for Medicaid recipients undergoing multiple procedure types; OR: 2.3 for Medicaid non-recipients with multiple procedure types; OR: 1.9 for Medicaid recipients receiving single dental procedure. Having private insurance, being unemployed and being Medicaid insured undergoing multiple procedure were strongest predictors of UC.

Golimumab in unresponsive ulcerative colitis

PubMed Central

Lippert, Elisabeth; Müller, Martina; Ott, Claudia

2014-01-01

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammation mainly affecting the colon mucosa. It predominantly occurs in younger patients. Until recently, the main goals in the treatment of UC were to temper the symptoms, such as diarrhea, pain, and weight loss, by using mesalazine and steroids. With newer medications, such as immunomodulators (thiopurines) and the biologics providing blockade of tumor necrosis factor (TNF), the goals of the therapy in UC have changed to long-term remission and mucosal healing. The first available anti-TNF therapy in UC included infusion therapy with infliximab every few weeks. In 2012, subcutaneously administered adalimumab gained approval for the treatment of UC in Germany. In patients with a mild disease, therapy with mesalazine, orally or topically, can be sufficient. In patients with moderate to severe disease, therapy with azathioprine or anti-TNF is often required to reach disease control; however, this is only efficient in about two-thirds of patients. Some patients either show no response or a lost response while on treatment. So, further medical options are warranted in the treatment of UC. With golimumab, a new approach in the treatment of mild to moderate UC recently became available in Germany and is a promising new option in the therapy regimen for patients with UC. PMID:24904202

Antilaminaribioside and antichitobioside antibodies in inflammatory bowel disease.

PubMed

Rejchrt, S; Drahosová, M; Kopácová, M; Cyrany, J; Douda, T; Pintér, M; Bures, J

2008-01-01

Testing antilaminaribioside (ALCA) and antichitobioside (ACCA) antibodies in 89 Crohn's disease (CD), 31 ulcerative colitis (UC) and 50 controls, mean values were 38.6 and 53.0 ELISA units for CD, 34.0 and 32.6 for UC, 34.5 and 36.4 for controls, respectively. There was no significant difference of ALCA values between CD and UC (p = 0.401), CD and control subjects (p = 0.698) or UC and controls (p = 0.898). ACCA were significantly higher in CD compared with UC (p = 0.011) but not with the controls (p = 0.095). No significant difference of ACCA values between UC and controls (p = 0.107) was found. ALCA and ACCA values significantly correlated in CD (r = 0.548, p < 10(-4)) and UC (r = 0.885, p < 10(-4)) but not in controls (r = 0.153, p = 0.287). The positive predictive value for CD was only 20 (ALCA) and 8 % (ACCA), the negative ones (to exclude CD) 25 (ALCA) and 86 % (ACCA). Small and/or large bowel involvement or disease type (i.e. stenosing, perforating or inflammatory) of CD did not differ in the two values. The idea that ALCA and ACCA may be useful either to differentiate between CD, UC and healthy subjects or to stratify CD was not confirmed.

Porous silicon carbide (SIC) semiconductor device

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shor, Joseph S. (Inventor); Kurtz, Anthony D. (Inventor)

1996-01-01

Porous silicon carbide is fabricated according to techniques which result in a significant portion of nanocrystallites within the material in a sub 10 nanometer regime. There is described techniques for passivating porous silicon carbide which result in the fabrication of optoelectronic devices which exhibit brighter blue luminescence and exhibit improved qualities. Based on certain of the techniques described porous silicon carbide is used as a sacrificial layer for the patterning of silicon carbide. Porous silicon carbide is then removed from the bulk substrate by oxidation and other methods. The techniques described employ a two-step process which is used to pattern bulk silicon carbide where selected areas of the wafer are then made porous and then the porous layer is subsequently removed. The process to form porous silicon carbide exhibits dopant selectivity and a two-step etching procedure is implemented for silicon carbide multilayers.

Formation of dysprosium carbide on the graphite (0001) surface

DOE PAGES

Lii-Rosales, Ann; Zhou, Yinghui; Wallingford, Mark; ...

2017-07-12

When using scanning tunneling microscopy, we characterize a surface carbide that forms such that Dy is deposited on the basal plane of graphite. In order to form carbide islands on terraces, Dy is first deposited at 650–800 K, which forms large metallic islands. Upon annealing at 1000 K, these clusters convert to carbide. Deposition directly at 1000 K is ineffective because nucleation on terraces is inhibited. Reaction is signaled by the fact that each carbide cluster is partially or totally surrounded by an etch pit. The etch pit is one carbon layer deep for most carbide clusters. Carbide clusters aremore » also identifiable by striations on their surfaces. Based on mass balance, and assuming that only the surface layer of carbon is involved in the reaction, the carbide has stoichiometry D y 2 C . This is Dy-rich compared with the most common bulk carbide Dy C 2 , which may reflect limited surface carbon transport to the carbide.« less

Ionic liquid dependence of triplet-sensitized photon upconversion.

PubMed

Murakami, Yoichi; Ito, Toshiyuki; Kawai, Akio

2014-12-11

Photon upconversion (UC) is a technology used to convert wasted lower energy photons to usable higher energy photons. Triplet-sensitized UC based on the triplet-triplet annihilation (TTA) of organic molecules has recently received attention because of its applicability to noncoherent sunlight. Among the various media proposed for this UC, ionic liquids (ILs) are practically advantageous because of their nonvolatility and nonflammability. However, from previous studies, the efficiency of UC (ΦUC) has been found to depend on the ILs employed. In this article, systematic investigations were carried out on samples made using more than 10 kinds of ILs, all of which were purified before sample fabrication to enhance data reliability. Several clear tendencies were found, and they were all related to the viscosity of the ILs. We also found that the magnitude of their solvatochromic shifts did not correlate to these trends. These results show that the dynamic aspects of the molecules influence the kinetics that govern the magnitude of ΦUC. Along with related discussions and interpretations, these results should provide a guideline toward increasing the ΦUC.

Intelligent Agents as a Basis for Natural Language Interfaces

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-01-01

language analysis component of UC, which produces a semantic representa tion of the input. This representation is in the form of a KODIAK network (see...Appendix A). Next, UC’s Concretion Mechanism performs concretion inferences ([Wilensky, 1983] and [Norvig, 1983]) based on the semantic network...The first step in UC’s processing is done by UC’s parser/understander component which produces a KODIAK semantic network representa tion of

Clonal Evolution of Chemotherapy-resistant Urothelial Carcinoma

PubMed Central

Faltas, Bishoy M.; Prandi, Davide; Tagawa, Scott T.; Molina, Ana M.; Nanus, David M.; Sternberg, Cora; Rosenberg, Jonathan; Mosquera, Juan Miguel; Robinson, Brian; Elemento, Olivier; Sboner, Andrea; Beltran, Himisha; Demichelis, Francesca; Rubin, Mark A.

2017-01-01

Chemotherapy-resistant urothelial carcinoma (UC) has no uniformly curative therapy. Understanding how selective pressure from chemotherapy directs UC’s evolution and shapes its clonal architecture is a central biological question with clinical implications. To address this question, we performed whole-exome sequencing and clonality analysis of 72 UCs including 16 matched sets of primary and advanced tumors prospectively collected before and after chemotherapy. Our analysis provided several insights: (i) chemotherapy-treated UC is characterized by intra-patient mutational heterogeneity and the majority of mutations are not shared, (ii) both branching evolution and metastatic spread are very early events in the natural history of UC; (iii) chemotherapy-treated UC is enriched with clonal mutations involving L1-cell adhesion molecule (L1CAM) and integrin signaling pathways; (iv) APOBEC induced-mutagenesis is clonally-enriched in chemotherapy-treated UC and continues to shape UC’s evolution throughout its lifetime. PMID:27749842

Huangqin-Tang and Ingredients in Modulating the Pathogenesis of Ulcerative Colitis.

PubMed

Wang, Chunyan; Tang, Xudong; Zhang, Li

2017-01-01

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is the most common inflammatory bowel disease worldwide. Current therapies in UC cause limitations, and herb medicine provides an important choice for UC treatment. Huangqin-Tang (HQT) is a well-known classical traditional Chinese herbal formula and has been used in China for thousands of years. A large number of pharmacological studies demonstrated HQT and its ingredients to be effective in treating UC. Though the therapeutic effect has been evaluated, comprehensive up-to-date reviews in this field are not yet available. Here we aim to review our current understanding of HQT and its ingredients in treating UC and how the agents modulate the main pathogenesis of the disease, including the intestinal environment, immune imbalance, inflammatory pathways, and oxidative stress. The summary on this issue may provide better understanding of HQT and its ingredients in treating UC and possibly help in promoting its clinical application.

The effects of muscle contraction and recombinant osteocalcin on insulin sensitivity ex vivo.

PubMed

Levinger, I; Lin, X; Zhang, X; Brennan-Speranza, T C; Volpato, B; Hayes, A; Jerums, G; Seeman, E; McConell, G

2016-02-01

We tested whether GPRC6A, the putative receptor of undercarboxylated osteocalcin (ucOC), is present in mouse muscle and whether ucOC increases insulin sensitivity following ex vivo muscle contraction. GPPRC6A is expressed in mouse muscle and in the mouse myotubes from a cell line. ucOC potentiated the effect of ex vivo contraction on insulin sensitivity. Acute exercise increases skeletal muscle insulin sensitivity. In humans, exercise increases circulating ucOC, a hormone that increases insulin sensitivity in rodents. We tested whether GPRC6A, the putative receptor of ucOC, is present in mouse muscle and whether recombinant ucOC increases insulin sensitivity in both C2C12 myotubes and whole mouse muscle following ex vivo muscle contraction. Glucose uptake was examined in C2C12 myotubes that express GPRC6A following treatment with insulin alone or with insulin and increasing ucOC concentrations (0.3, 3, 10 and 30 ng/ml). In addition, glucose uptake, phosphorylated (p-)AKT and p-AS160 were examined ex vivo in extensor digitorum longus (EDL) dissected from C57BL/6J wild-type mice, at rest, following insulin alone, after muscle contraction followed by insulin and after muscle contraction followed by recombinant ucOC then insulin exposure. We observed protein expression of the likely receptor for ucOC, GPRC6A, in whole muscle sections and differentiated mouse myotubes. We observed reduced GPRC6A expression following siRNA transfection. ucOC significantly increased insulin-stimulated glucose uptake dose-dependently up to 10 ng/ml, in differentiated mouse C2C12 myotubes. Insulin increased EDL glucose uptake (∼30 %, p < 0.05) and p-AKT and p-AKT/AKT compared with rest (all p < 0.05). Contraction prior to insulin increased muscle glucose uptake (∼25 %, p < 0.05), p-AKT, p-AKT/AKT, p-AS160 and p-AS160/AS160 compared with contraction alone (all p < 0.05). ucOC after contraction increased insulin-stimulated muscle glucose uptake (∼12 % p < 0.05) and p-AS160 (<0.05) more than contraction plus insulin alone but without effect on p-AKT. In the absence of insulin and/or of contraction, ucOC had no significant effect on muscle glucose uptake. GPRC6A, the likely receptor of osteocalcin (OC), is expressed in mouse muscle. ucOC treatment augments insulin-stimulated skeletal muscle glucose uptake in C2C12 myotubes and following ex vivo muscle contraction. ucOC may partly account for the insulin sensitizing effect of exercise.

Method of preparing silicon carbide particles dispersed in an electrolytic bath for composite electroplating of metals

DOEpatents

Peng, Yu-Min; Wang, Jih-Wen; Liue, Chun-Ying; Yeh, Shinn-Horng

1994-01-01

A method for preparing silicon carbide particles dispersed in an electrolytic bath for composite electroplating of metals includes the steps of washing the silicon carbide particles with an organic solvent; washing the silicon carbide particles with an inorganic acid; grinding the silicon carbide particles; and heating the silicon carbide particles in a nickel-containing solution at a boiling temperature for a predetermined period of time.

Method of fabricating porous silicon carbide (SiC)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shor, Joseph S. (Inventor); Kurtz, Anthony D. (Inventor)

1995-01-01

Porous silicon carbide is fabricated according to techniques which result in a significant portion of nanocrystallites within the material in a sub 10 nanometer regime. There is described techniques for passivating porous silicon carbide which result in the fabrication of optoelectronic devices which exhibit brighter blue luminescence and exhibit improved qualities. Based on certain of the techniques described porous silicon carbide is used as a sacrificial layer for the patterning of silicon carbide. Porous silicon carbide is then removed from the bulk substrate by oxidation and other methods. The techniques described employ a two-step process which is used to pattern bulk silicon carbide where selected areas of the wafer are then made porous and then the porous layer is subsequently removed. The process to form porous silicon carbide exhibits dopant selectivity and a two-step etching procedure is implemented for silicon carbide multilayers.

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

Lii-Rosales, Ann; Zhou, Yinghui; Wallingford, Mark

When using scanning tunneling microscopy, we characterize a surface carbide that forms such that Dy is deposited on the basal plane of graphite. In order to form carbide islands on terraces, Dy is first deposited at 650–800 K, which forms large metallic islands. Upon annealing at 1000 K, these clusters convert to carbide. Deposition directly at 1000 K is ineffective because nucleation on terraces is inhibited. Reaction is signaled by the fact that each carbide cluster is partially or totally surrounded by an etch pit. The etch pit is one carbon layer deep for most carbide clusters. Carbide clusters aremore » also identifiable by striations on their surfaces. Based on mass balance, and assuming that only the surface layer of carbon is involved in the reaction, the carbide has stoichiometry D y 2 C . This is Dy-rich compared with the most common bulk carbide Dy C 2 , which may reflect limited surface carbon transport to the carbide.« less

Structural evolution of molybdenum carbides in hot aqueous environments and impact on low-temperature hydroprocessing of acetic acid

DOE PAGES

Choi, Jae -Soon; Schwartz, Viviane; Santillan-Jimenez, Eduardo; ...

2015-03-13

In this paper, we investigated the structural evolution of molybdenum carbides subjected to hot aqueous environments and their catalytic performance in low-temperature hydroprocessing of acetic acid. While bulk structures of Mo carbides were maintained after aging in hot liquid water, a portion of carbidic Mo sites were converted to oxidic sites. Water aging also induced changes to the non-carbidic carbon deposited during carbide synthesis and increased surface roughness, which in turn affected carbide pore volume and surface area. The extent of these structural changes was sensitive to the initial carbide structure and was lower under actual hydroprocessing conditions indicating themore » possibility of further improving the hydrothermal stability of Mo carbides by optimizing catalyst structure and operating conditions. Mo carbides were active in acetic acid conversion in the presence of liquid water, their activity being comparable to that of Ru/C. Finally, the results suggest that effective and inexpensive bio-oil hydroprocessing catalysts could be designed based on Mo carbides, although a more detailed understanding of the structure-performance relationships is needed, especially in upgrading of more complex reaction mixtures or real bio-oils.« less

High Dephosphorylated-Uncarboxylated MGP in Hemodialysis patients: risk factors and response to vitamin K2, A pre-post intervention clinical trial.

PubMed

Aoun, Mabel; Makki, Maha; Azar, Hiba; Matta, Hiam; Chelala, Dania Nehme

2017-06-07

Vascular calcifications are highly prevalent in hemodialysis patients. Dephosphorylated-uncarboxylated MGP (dp-ucMGP) was found to increase in vitamin K-deficient patients and may be associated with vascular calcifications. Supplementation of hemodialysis patients with vitamin K 2 (menaquinone-7) has been studied in Europe with a maximum 61% drop of dp-ucMGP levels. The aim of this study is to assess first the drop of dp-ucMGP in an Eastern Mediterranean cohort after vitamin K 2 treatment and second the correlation between baseline dp-ucMGP and vascular calcification score. This is a prospective, pre-post intervention clinical trial involving 50 hemodialysis patients who received daily 360 μg of menaquinone-7 for 4 weeks. At baseline they were assessed for plasma dp-ucMGP levels and vascular calcification scores (AC-24) as well as for other demographic, clinical and biological variables. Dp-ucMGP levels were measured a second time at 4 weeks. At baseline, dp-ucMGP levels were extremely elevated with a median of 3179.15 (1825.25; 4339.50) pM and correlated significantly with AC-24 (Spearman's rho = 0.43, P = 0.002). Using a bivariate regression analysis, the association between dp-ucMGP levels and AC-24 was most significant when comparing dp-ucMGP levels less than 1000 to those more than 1000 pM (P = 0.02). Dp-ucMGP levels higher than 5000 pM were significantly associated with females, patients with recent fracture and patients with lower serum albumin (respectively P = 0.02, 0.004 and 0.046). The average drop of dp-ucMGP at 4 weeks of treatment was found to be 86% with diabetics having the lowest drop rate (P = 0.01). Vitamin K deficiency, as assessed by high dp-ucMGP levels, is profound in hemodialysis patients from the Eastern Mediterranean region and it is significantly correlated with vascular calcifications. Daily 360 μg of menaquinone-7, given for 4 weeks, effectively reduces dp-ucMGP in this population. Future studies are needed to assess the changes in vascular calcifications in hemodialysis patients treated with vitamin K 2 over a longer follow-up period. The clinical trial was registered on clinicaltrials.gov (Identification number NCT02876354 , on August 11, 2016).

Combination of Azathioprine and Aminosalicylate Treatment Prevent Risk of Cardiovascular Disease in Women with Ulcerative Colitis by Reducing Inflammation.

PubMed

dos Santos, Lana Claudinez; Costa, Aline Villela; Lopes, Lorrayne Gonçalves; Leonel, Alda Jusceline; Aguilar, Edenil Costa; Noviello, Maria de Lourdes Meirelles; Ferrari, Maria de Lourdes de Abreu; Alvarez-Leite, Jacqueline I

2015-08-07

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease with involvement of the immune system. Chronic inflammatory diseases have been associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) but few studies have assessed this risk in patients with UC and the influence of drug treatment. Thus, we evaluated the risk of development of CVD in women with UC in clinical remission, considering the drug treatment. Twenty-one women with UC participated in this study: 12 used aminosalicylates (ASA group) and 9 used azathioprine added to aminosalicylates (AZA+ASA group). The healthy control group was matched for age. We evaluated blood pressure, body composition, and biochemical and immunological parameters. Compared to the respective control group, the UC groups showed expansion of body fat and less lean body mass. Blood pressure, pro-inflammatory cytokines, nitric oxide, C reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and anti-oxidized LDL antibodies were higher in UC groups. Only AZA+ASA group showed increased anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10 and TGF-β). Framingham scores showed higher risk of CVD in UC groups. UC groups were compared and women treated with azathioprine showed reduction of total protein, globulin, ESR, and lymphocytes, with increased IL-6, TNF, IL-10, and TGF-β. Our data suggest that women with UC in clinical remission have a higher risk for development of atherosclerosis and CVD when compared to the control group, while women treated with azathioprine seem more protected than those treated only with aminosalicylates, due to better regulation of the inflammatory process.

Individual health discount rate in patients with ulcerative colitis.

PubMed

Waljee, Akbar K; Morris, Arden M; Waljee, Jennifer F; Higgins, Peter D R

2011-06-01

In cost-effectiveness analysis, discount rates are used in calculating the value of future costs and benefits. However, standard discount rates may not accurately describe the decision-making of patients with ulcerative colitis (UC). These patients often choose the long-term risks of immunosuppressive therapy over the short-term risks of colectomy, demonstrating very high discount rates for future health. In this study we aimed to measure the discount rate in UC patients and identify variables associated with the discount rate. We surveyed patients with UC and patients who were postcolectomy for UC to measure their valuations of UC and colectomy health states. We used Standard Gamble (SG) and Time-Trade-Off (TTO) methods to assess current and future health state valuations and calculated the discount rate. Participants included 150 subjects with UC and 150 subjects who were postcolectomy for UC. Adjusted discount rates varied widely (0%-100%), with an overall median rate of 55.0% (interquartile range [IQR] 20.6-100), which was significantly higher than the standard rate of 5%. Within the normal range of discount rates, patients' expected discount rate increased by 0.80% for each additional year of age, and female patients had discount rates that averaged ≈ 8% less than their age-matched counterparts and approached statistical significance. The accepted discount rate of 5% grossly underestimates UC patients' preference for long-term over short-term risk. This might explain UC patients' frequent choice of the long-term risks of immunosuppressive medical therapy over the short-term risks of colectomy. Copyright © 2010 Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America, Inc.

[Clinical analysis of cutaneous manifestations and related factors in patients with ulcerative colitis].

PubMed

Tian, Y; Li, J X; Wang, H H; Li, R Y; Liu, X G

2016-07-01

To investigate the cutaneous manifestations in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) and related factors. Patients admitted to Department of Gastroenterology Peking University First Hospital from January 1994 to December 2014 and diagnosed as UC were retrospectively enrolled in this study. Skin disorders were confirmed by the dermatologists. Clinical data were collected and compared between patients with and without cutaneous manifestations. Among the total 373 UC patients, there were 34 cases (9.1%) with cutaneous manifestations, including 11 pyoderma gangrenosum, 8 erythema nodosum, 6 eczema, 3 psoriasis, 2 pemphigus, 1 granulomatous cheilitis, 1 ichthyosis, 1 acne rosacea, and 1 impetigo. The skin manifestations may occur after the diagnosis, simultaneously or even before the diagnosis of UC, which were 24, 7 and 3 patients respectively. The mean age in patients with skin lesions was (47.2±12.1) years, male to female ratio 0.79∶1. More patients with skin manifestations had severe activity of UC compared with non-skin group [50.0%(17/34) vs 25.1%(85/339), P=0.01]. In addition, the proportion of extensive colitis in skin lesion group was significantly higher than that in non-skin group [76.5%(26/34) vs 54.6%(185/339), P=0.04]. The cutaneous manifestations associated with UC are polymorphic, erythema nodosums and pyoderma gangrenosums are the most common skin lesions seen in UC patients. Skin lesions occur concurrently, pre or post the diagnosis of UC. Skin lesions in UC patients suggest more severe disease activity. Clinicians need to pay more attention to this group.

Gene-Gene and Gene-Environment Interactions in Ulcerative Colitis

PubMed Central

Wang, Ming-Hsi; Fiocchi, Claudio; Zhu, Xiaofeng; Ripke, Stephan; Kamboh, M. Ilyas; Rebert, Nancy; Duerr, Richard H.; Achkar, Jean-Paul

2014-01-01

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified at least 133 ulcerative colitis (UC) associated loci. The role of genetic factors in clinical practice is not clearly defined. The relevance of genetic variants to disease pathogenesis is still uncertain because of not characterized gene-gene and gene-environment interactions. We examined the predictive value of combining the 133 UC risk loci with genetic interactions in an ongoing inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) GWAS. The Wellcome Trust Case-Control Consortium (WTCCC) IBD GWAS was used as a replication cohort. We applied logic regression (LR), a novel adaptive regression methodology, to search for high order interactions. Exploratory genotype correlations with UC sub-phenotypes (extent of disease, need of surgery, age of onset, extra-intestinal manifestations and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC)) were conducted. The combination of 133 UC loci yielded good UC risk predictability (area under the curve [AUC] of 0.86). A higher cumulative allele score predicted higher UC risk. Through LR, several lines of evidence for genetic interactions were identified and successfully replicated in the WTCCC cohort. The genetic interactions combined with the gene-smoking interaction significantly improved predictability in the model (AUC, from 0.86 to 0.89, P=3.26E-05). Explained UC variance increased from 37% to 42% after adding the interaction terms. A within case analysis found suggested genetic association with PSC. Our study demonstrates that the LR methodology allows the identification and replication of high order genetic interactions in UC GWAS datasets. UC risk can be predicted by a 133 loci and improved by adding gene-gene and gene-environment interactions. PMID:24241240

YouTube as an educational tool regarding male urethral catheterization.

PubMed

Nason, Gregory J; Kelly, Padraig; Kelly, Michael E; Burke, Matthew J; Aslam, Asadullah; Giri, Subhasis K; Flood, Hugh D

2015-04-01

Urethral catheterization (UC) is a common procedure carried out on a daily basis. The aims of this study were to assess the quality of YouTube as an educational tool regarding male UC and to assess the experience of newly qualified doctors regarding UC. YouTube was searched for videos containing relevant information about male UC. A checklist for evaluating content for male UC was devised. The top-ranked video was shown to interns and they were questioned regarding their experience of UC and the usefulness of the video. A total of 100 videos was screened and 49 unique videos were identified. The median length of video was 7 min 15 s (range 1 min 44 s to 26 min 44 s). Regarding the Safe Catheter Insertion Score, the mean score was 5.18 ± 1.64. 9 (18.4%) deemed useful, 24 (49%) somewhat useful and 16 (32.7%) not useful. There was no difference in the number of views (p = 0.487), duration of video (p = 0.364) or number of days online (p = 0.123) between those categorized as useful, somewhat useful and not useful. Twenty-six interns (89.7%) attended the UC teaching session. All reported the video to be a useful educational adjunct. Nine of the respondents (42.9%) had independently inserted a urinary catheter before the educational session. The quality of videos on YouTube regarding male UC is widely variable. Preselected videos are deemed useful by junior doctors regarding male UC and can be used as an educational adjunct before performing hands-on tasks.

Telocytes are reduced during fibrotic remodelling of the colonic wall in ulcerative colitis

PubMed Central

Manetti, Mirko; Rosa, Irene; Messerini, Luca; Ibba-Manneschi, Lidia

2015-01-01

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is characterized by chronic relapsing intestinal inflammation finally leading to extensive tissue fibrosis and resulting in a stiff colon unable to carry out peristalsis or to resorb fluids. Telocytes, a peculiar type of stromal cells, have been recently identified in the human gastrointestinal tract. Several roles have been proposed for telocytes, including mechanical support, intercellular signalling and modulation of intestinal motility. The aim of the present work was to investigate the presence and distribution of telocytes in colonic specimens from UC patients compared with controls. Archival paraffin-embedded samples of the left colon from UC patients who underwent elective bowel resection and controls were collected. Tissue sections were stained with Masson's trichrome to detect fibrosis. Telocytes were identified by CD34 immunohistochemistry. In early fibrotic UC cases, fibrosis affected the muscularis mucosae and submucosa, while the muscularis propria was spared. In advanced fibrotic UC cases, fibrosis extended to affect the muscle layers and the myenteric plexus. Few telocytes were found in the muscularis mucosae and submucosa of both early and advanced fibrotic UC colonic wall. In the muscle layers and myenteric plexus of early fibrotic UC, telocytes were preserved in their distribution. In the muscularis propria of advanced fibrotic UC, the network of telocytes was reduced or even completely absent around smooth muscle bundles and myenteric plexus ganglia, paralleling the loss of the network of interstitial cells of Cajal. In UC, a loss of telocytes accompanies the fibrotic remodelling of the colonic wall and might contribute to colonic dysmotility. PMID:25283476

Randomized Trial of Family Therapy versus Non-Family Treatment for Adolescent Behavior Problems in Usual Care

PubMed Central

Hogue, Aaron; Dauber, Sarah; Henderson, Craig E.; Bobek, Molly; Johnson, Candace; Lichvar, Emily; Morgenstern, Jon

2014-01-01

Objective A major focus of implementation science is discovering whether evidence-based approaches can be delivered with fidelity and potency in routine practice. This randomized trial compared usual care family therapy (UC-FT), implemented without a treatment manual or extramural support as the standard-of-care approach in a community clinic, to non-family treatment (UC-Other) for adolescent conduct and substance use disorders. Method The study recruited 205 adolescents (mean age 15.7 years; 52% male; 59% Hispanic American, 21% African American) from a community referral network, enrolling 63% for primary mental health problems and 37% for primary substance use problems. Clients were randomly assigned to either the UC-FT site or one of five UC-Other sites. Implementation data confirmed that UC-FT showed adherence to the family therapy approach and differentiation from UC-Other. Follow-ups were completed at 3, 6, and 12 months post-baseline. Results There was no between-group difference in treatment attendance. Both conditions demonstrated improvements in externalizing, internalizing, and delinquency symptoms. However, UC-FT produced greater reductions in youth-reported externalizing and internalizing among the whole sample, in delinquency among substance-using youth, and in alcohol and drug use among substance-using youth. The degree to which UC-FT outperformed UC-Other was consistent with effect sizes from controlled trials of manualized family therapy models. Conclusions Non-manualized family therapy can be effective for adolescent behavior problems within diverse populations in usual care, and it may be superior to non-family alternatives. PMID:25496283

Validation of the "German Inflammatory Bowel Disease Activity Index (GIBDI)": An Instrument for Patient-Based Disease Activity Assessment in Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis.

PubMed

Hüppe, Angelika; Langbrandtner, Jana; Häuser, Winfried; Raspe, Heiner; Bokemeyer, Bernd

2018-05-09

 Assessment of disease activity in Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) is usually based on the physician's evaluation of clinical symptoms, endoscopic findings, and biomarker analysis. The German Inflammatory Bowel Disease Activity Index for CD (GIBDI CD ) and UC (GIBDI UC ) uses data from patient-reported questionnaires. It is unclear to what extent the GIBDI agrees with the physicians' documented activity indices.  Data from 2 studies were reanalyzed. In both, gastroenterologists had documented disease activity in UC with the partial Mayo Score (pMS) and in CD with the Harvey Bradshaw Index (HBI). Patient-completed GIBDI questionnaires had also been assessed. The analysis sample consisted of 151 UC and 150 CD patients. Kappa coefficients were determined as agreement measurements.  Rank correlations were 0.56 (pMS, GIBDI UC ) and 0.57 (HBI, GIBDI CD ), with p < 0.001. The absolute agreement for 2 categories of disease activity (remission yes/no) was 74.2 % (UC) and 76.6 % (CD), and for 4 categories (none/mild/moderate/severe) 60.3 % (UC) and 61.9 % (CD). The kappa values ranged between 0.47 for UC (2 categories) and 0.58 for CD (4 categories).  There is satisfactory agreement of GIBDI with the physician-documented disease activity indices. GIBDI can be used in health care research without access to assessments of medical practitioners. In clinical practice, the index offers a supplementary source of information. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Bleaching effects of massecuite on some properties of crystallized sugar beet and milk chocolate bars produced.

PubMed

Sadjadi, F Seyed; Honarvar, M; Kalbasi-Ashtari, A; Motaghian, P

2018-04-01

Four kinds of bleached, unbleached, second and third crystal sugars (BCS, UCS, SCS and TCS) were made from different massecuites in a sugar-beet factory, and their physiochemical (polarization, invert sugar, colorants, pH, ash and SO 2 ), microbiological and functional properties were measured. While the polarization of UCS, SCS and TCS were lower than BCS; their invert sucrose, colorants, pH and ash contents were significantly higher than BCS. The phenols and betaine of BCS, UCS, SCS, and TCS were 144, 401, 384 and 673 (mg/100 g); and 244, 791, 4662, and 6589 (mg/100 g); respectively. Whereas the phenol of milk chocolate bars (MCB) made with UCS, SCS, and TCS were only 10% higher than MCB completed with BCS; their betaine contents were substantially (up to 16 times) higher than the ones finished with BCS. Sensory evaluation showed that the MCB prepared with three sugars including UCS, SCS and TCS had significantly higher glossiness, brittleness, flavor and mouth feel than those made with BCS. The greater colorants, ash content and inverted sugars of UCS, SCS and TCS (in comparison with BCS) made considerable improvements in the glossiness, flavor and brittleness of MCB, respectively. BCS had 8 ppm of toxic sulfur; whereas, UCS, SCS and TCS had no detectable sulfur and significantly higher beneficial copper content than BCS. No pathogenic microorganism were detected in UCS, SCS, TCS or their subsequent MCB. Our results highly recommend using UCS, SCS and TCS instead of BCS in food products (such as MCB) due to their higher health benefits.

Can Any Good Thing Come out of Nazareth? (John 1:46) 1999 George C. Pimentel Award, sponsored by Union Carbide Corporation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Orna, Mary Virginia

1999-09-01

We are in the era of Big Science, which also means big institutions where the Big Science is done. However, higher education in the United States is unique in that parallel to the array of big institutions is a system of small liberal arts and sciences colleges where students receive the personal attention and faculty contact that is often not possible at larger institutions. While these smaller institutions are limited in resources and finances, studies have shown that they contribute a disproportionately higher number of leaders across a spectrum of disciplines, including chemistry. This address summarizes my personal odyssey and the reasons for the award. In it, I emphasize the advantages enjoyed by liberal arts and sciences students and faculty that enable them to overcome the view that great things can only be done in large, cosmopolitan settings.

Process feasibility study in support of silicon material task 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fang, C. S.; Hansen, K. C.; Miller, J. W., Jr.; Yaws, C. L.

1978-01-01

Initial results for gas thermal conductivity of silicon tetrafluoride and trichlorosilane are reported in respective temperature ranges of 25 to 400 C and 50 to 400 C. For chemical engineering analyses, the preliminary process design for the original silane process of Union Carbide was completed for Cases A and B, Regular and Minimum Process Storage. Included are raw material usage, utility requirements, major process equipment lists, and production labor requirements. Because of the large differences in surge tankage between major unit operations the fixed capital investment varied from $19,094,000 to $11,138,000 for Cases A and B, respectively. For the silane process the original flowsheet was revised for a more optimum arrangement of major equipment, raw materials and operating conditions. The initial issue of the revised flowsheet (Case C) for the silane process indicated favorable cost benefits over the original scheme.

Growth characteristics of primary M7C3 carbide in hypereutectic Fe-Cr-C alloy.

PubMed

Liu, Sha; Zhou, Yefei; Xing, Xiaolei; Wang, Jibo; Ren, Xuejun; Yang, Qingxiang

2016-09-06

The microstructure of the hypereutectic Fe-Cr-C alloy is observed by optical microscopy (OM). The initial growth morphology, the crystallographic structure, the semi-molten morphology and the stacking faults of the primary M7C3 carbide are observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The in-suit growth process of the primary M7C3 carbide was observed by confocal laser microscope (CLM). It is found that the primary M7C3 carbide in hypereutectic Fe-Cr-C alloy is irregular polygonal shape with several hollows in the center and gaps on the edge. Some primary M7C3 carbides are formed by layers of shell or/and consist of multiple parts. In the initial growth period, the primary M7C3 carbide forms protrusion parallel to {} crystal planes. The extending and revolving protrusion forms the carbide shell. The electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD) maps show that the primary M7C3 carbide consists of multiple parts. The semi-molten M7C3 carbide contains unmelted shell and several small-scale carbides inside, which further proves that the primary M7C3 carbide is not an overall block. It is believed that the coalescence of the primary M7C3 carbides is ascribed to the growing condition of the protrusion and the gap filling process.

Growth characteristics of primary M7C3 carbide in hypereutectic Fe-Cr-C alloy

PubMed Central

Liu, Sha; Zhou, Yefei; Xing, Xiaolei; Wang, Jibo; Ren, Xuejun; Yang, Qingxiang

2016-01-01

The microstructure of the hypereutectic Fe-Cr-C alloy is observed by optical microscopy (OM). The initial growth morphology, the crystallographic structure, the semi-molten morphology and the stacking faults of the primary M7C3 carbide are observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The in-suit growth process of the primary M7C3 carbide was observed by confocal laser microscope (CLM). It is found that the primary M7C3 carbide in hypereutectic Fe-Cr-C alloy is irregular polygonal shape with several hollows in the center and gaps on the edge. Some primary M7C3 carbides are formed by layers of shell or/and consist of multiple parts. In the initial growth period, the primary M7C3 carbide forms protrusion parallel to {} crystal planes. The extending and revolving protrusion forms the carbide shell. The electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD) maps show that the primary M7C3 carbide consists of multiple parts. The semi-molten M7C3 carbide contains unmelted shell and several small-scale carbides inside, which further proves that the primary M7C3 carbide is not an overall block. It is believed that the coalescence of the primary M7C3 carbides is ascribed to the growing condition of the protrusion and the gap filling process. PMID:27596718

Microwave sintering of boron carbide

DOEpatents

Blake, R.D.; Katz, J.D.; Petrovic, J.J.; Sheinberg, H.

1988-06-10

A method for forming boron carbide into a particular shape and densifying the green boron carbide shape. Boron carbide in powder form is pressed into a green shape and then sintered, using a microwave oven, to obtain a dense boron carbide body. Densities of greater than 95% of theoretical density have been obtained. 1 tab.

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

Choi, Jae -Soon; Schwartz, Viviane; Santillan-Jimenez, Eduardo

In this paper, we investigated the structural evolution of molybdenum carbides subjected to hot aqueous environments and their catalytic performance in low-temperature hydroprocessing of acetic acid. While bulk structures of Mo carbides were maintained after aging in hot liquid water, a portion of carbidic Mo sites were converted to oxidic sites. Water aging also induced changes to the non-carbidic carbon deposited during carbide synthesis and increased surface roughness, which in turn affected carbide pore volume and surface area. The extent of these structural changes was sensitive to the initial carbide structure and was lower under actual hydroprocessing conditions indicating themore » possibility of further improving the hydrothermal stability of Mo carbides by optimizing catalyst structure and operating conditions. Mo carbides were active in acetic acid conversion in the presence of liquid water, their activity being comparable to that of Ru/C. Finally, the results suggest that effective and inexpensive bio-oil hydroprocessing catalysts could be designed based on Mo carbides, although a more detailed understanding of the structure-performance relationships is needed, especially in upgrading of more complex reaction mixtures or real bio-oils.« less

Maximizing the Efficiency of MAGTF Airlift Capacity in WestPac

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-03-27

respectively, cover the realm of medium-long range, medium lift capabilities. The UC -35 and the UC -12 aircraft, for short-medium range, light lift...requirements, are variations similar to the Cessna Citation and Beechcraft King Air respectively. In addition, the upgraded UC -12W model possesses an...airlift are resident to the VMGR and H&HS squadrons, specifically, the KC-130 and the OSA C- 12 and UC -35 aircraft, respectively. Each of these units

The Berkeley UNIX Consultant Project

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-08-01

of the National Conference on Artifcial Intelligence . Pittsburgh, PA. (2) Chin, D. N. 1986. User modeling in UC, the UNIX consultant. In Proceedings of...Codes Avalt and I1of Dis Special 1. Introduction Several years ago, we began a project called UC (UNIX Consultant). UC was to function as an intelligent ...English. We sometimes refer to UC as "an intelligent ’help’ facility" to emphasize our intention to construct a consul- tation system, rather than a

A content-based image retrieval method for optical colonoscopy images based on image recognition techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nosato, Hirokazu; Sakanashi, Hidenori; Takahashi, Eiichi; Murakawa, Masahiro

2015-03-01

This paper proposes a content-based image retrieval method for optical colonoscopy images that can find images similar to ones being diagnosed. Optical colonoscopy is a method of direct observation for colons and rectums to diagnose bowel diseases. It is the most common procedure for screening, surveillance and treatment. However, diagnostic accuracy for intractable inflammatory bowel diseases, such as ulcerative colitis (UC), is highly dependent on the experience and knowledge of the medical doctor, because there is considerable variety in the appearances of colonic mucosa within inflammations with UC. In order to solve this issue, this paper proposes a content-based image retrieval method based on image recognition techniques. The proposed retrieval method can find similar images from a database of images diagnosed as UC, and can potentially furnish the medical records associated with the retrieved images to assist the UC diagnosis. Within the proposed method, color histogram features and higher order local auto-correlation (HLAC) features are adopted to represent the color information and geometrical information of optical colonoscopy images, respectively. Moreover, considering various characteristics of UC colonoscopy images, such as vascular patterns and the roughness of the colonic mucosa, we also propose an image enhancement method to highlight the appearances of colonic mucosa in UC. In an experiment using 161 UC images from 32 patients, we demonstrate that our method improves the accuracy of retrieving similar UC images.

Clinical and economic outcomes in a population-based European cohort of 948 ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease patients by Markov analysis.

PubMed

Odes, S; Vardi, H; Friger, M; Esser, D; Wolters, F; Moum, B; Waters, H; Elkjaer, M; Bernklev, T; Tsianos, E; O'Morain, C; Stockbrügger, R; Munkholm, P; Langholz, E

2010-04-01

Forecasting clinical and economic outcomes in ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD) patients is complex, but necessary. To determine: the frequency of treatment-classified clinical states; the probability of transition between states; and the economic outcomes. Newly diagnosed UC and CD patients, allocated into seven clinical states by medical and surgical treatments recorded in serial 3-month cycles, underwent Markov analysis. Over 10 years, 630 UC and 318 CD patients had 22,823 and 11,871 cycles. The most frequent clinical outcomes were medical/surgical remission (medication-free) and mild disease (on 5-aminosalicylates, antibiotics, topical corticosteroids), comprising 28% and 62% of UC cycles and 24% and 51% of CD cycles respectively. The probability of drug-response in patients receiving systemic corticosteroids/immunomodulators was 0.74 in UC, 0.66 in CD. Both diseases had similar likelihood of persistent drug-dependency or drug-refractoriness. Surgery was more probable in CD, 0.20, than UC, 0.08. In terms of economic outcomes, surgery was costlier in UC per cycle, but the outlay over 10 years was greater in CD. Drug-refractory UC and CD cases engendered high costs in the cohort. Most patients on 5-aminosalicylates, corticosteroids and immunomodulators had favourable clinical and economic outcomes over 10 years. Drug-refractory and surgical patients exhibited greater long-term expenses.

Recent advances in enhanced luminescence upconversion of lanthanide-doped NaYF4 phosphors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumar, Deepak; Verma, Kartikey; Verma, Shefali; Chaudhary, Babulal; Som, Sudipta; Sharma, Vishal; Kumar, Vijay; Swart, Hendrik C.

2018-04-01

NaYF4 is regarded as the best upconversion (UC) matrix owing to its low phonon energy, more chemical stability, and a superior refractive index. This review reports on the various synthesis techniques of lanthanide-doped NaYF4 phosphors for UC application. The UC intensity depends on different properties of the matrix and those are discussed in detail. Plasmon-enhanced luminescence UC of the lanthanide-doped NaYF4 core-shells structure is discussed based on a literature survey. The present review provides the information about how the UC intensity can be enhanced. The idea about the UC is then deliberately used for versatile applications such as luminescent materials, display devices, biomedical imaging and different security appliances. In addition, the present review demonstrates the recent trends of NaYF4 UC materials in solar cell devices. The role of NaYF4 phosphor to eradicate the spectral variance among the incident solar spectrum, semiconductor as well as the sub-band gap nature of the semiconductor materials is also discussed in detail. Considering the fact that the research status on NaYF4 phosphor for photovoltaic application is now growing, the present review is therefore very important to the researchers. More importantly, this may promote more interesting research platforms to investigate the realistic use of UC nanophosphors as spectral converters for solar cells.

Extension and flexion in the upper cervical spine in neck pain patients.

PubMed

Ernst, Markus J; Crawford, Rebecca J; Schelldorfer, Sarah; Rausch-Osthoff, Anne-Kathrin; Barbero, Marco; Kool, Jan; Bauer, Christoph M

2015-08-01

Neck pain is a common problem in the general population with high risk of ongoing complaints or relapses. Range of motion (ROM) assessment is scientifically established in the clinical process of diagnosis, prognosis and outcome evaluation in neck pain. Anatomically, the cervical spine (CS) has been considered in two regions, the upper and lower CS. Disorders like cervicogenic headache have been clinically associated with dysfunctions of the upper CS (UCS), yet ROM tests and measurements are typically conducted on the whole CS. A cross-sectional study assessing 19 subjects with non-specific neck pain was undertaken to examine UCS extension-flexion ROM in relation to self-reported disability and pain (via the Neck Disability Index (NDI)). Two measurement devices (goniometer and electromagnetic tracking) were employed and compared. Correlations between ROM and the NDI were stronger for the UCS compared to the CS, with the strongest correlation between UCS flexion and the NDI-headache (r = -0.62). Correlations between UCS and CS ROM were fair to moderate, with the strongest correlation between UCS flexion and CS extension ROM (r = -0.49). UCS flexion restriction is related to headache frequency and intensity. Consistency and agreement between both measurement systems and for all tests was high. The results demonstrate that separate UCS ROM assessments for extension and flexion are useful in patients with neck pain. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Undercarboxylated osteocalcin is associated with insulin resistance, but not adiponectin, during pregnancy.

PubMed

Srichomkwun, Panudda; Houngngam, Natnicha; Pasatrat, Sophitsachi; Tharavanij, Thipaporn; Wattanachanya, Lalita; Khovidhunkit, Weerapan

2016-07-01

In mice, undercarboxylated osteocalcin (ucOC) improves beta-cell function and insulin sensitivity through adiponectin. In humans, levels of total osteocalcin (OC) and ucOC were negatively correlated with insulin resistance (IR) indices in patients with type 2 diabetes. Whether ucOC plays a role in glucose homeostasis and whether its effect is mediated through adiponectin during pregnancy is unclear. Serum levels of total OC, ucOC, and adiponectin were measured in 130 pregnant women with varying degrees of IR [gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), n = 74 and non-GDM, n = 56]. In all participants, total OC and ucOC levels were positively correlated with HOMA-IR and HOMA-%B, and negatively correlated with QUICKI. In contrast, adiponectin levels were negatively correlated with HOMA-IR and positively correlated with QUICKI (P < 0.01, both). However, neither total OC nor ucOC was associated with adiponectin. Although none of these markers could help distinguish women with and without GDM, total OC and ucOC levels were significantly higher in non-GDM women who had 1 abnormal OGTT value than those who had all normal OGTT values. Total OC and ucOC levels were significantly correlated with insulin secretion and IR indices, but not adiponectin levels, in pregnant women. Changes in OC might be a sensitive response to increased IR during pregnancy, which was not mediated through adiponectin.

Chk1 Promotes DNA Damage Response Bypass following Oxidative Stress in a Model of Hydrogen Peroxide-Associated Ulcerative Colitis through JNK Inactivation and Chromatin Binding.

PubMed

Reissig, Kathrin; Silver, Andrew; Hartig, Roland; Schinlauer, Antje; Walluscheck, Diana; Guenther, Thomas; Siedentopf, Sandra; Ross, Jochen; Vo, Diep-Khanh; Roessner, Albert; Poehlmann-Nitsche, Angela

2017-01-01

Dysregulation of c-Jun N -terminal kinase (JNK) activation promoted DNA damage response bypass and tumorigenesis in our model of hydrogen peroxide-associated ulcerative colitis (UC) and in patients with quiescent UC (QUC), UC-related dysplasia, and UC-related carcinoma (UC-CRC), thereby adapting to oxidative stress. In the UC model, we have observed features of oncogenic transformation: increased proliferation, undetected DNA damage, and apoptosis resistance. Here, we show that Chk1 was downregulated but activated in the acute and quiescent chronic phases. In both phases, Chk1 was linked to DNA damage response bypass by suppressing JNK activation following oxidative stress, promoting cell cycle progression despite DNA damage. Simultaneously, activated Chk1 was bound to chromatin. This triggered histone acetylation and the binding of histone acetyltransferases and transcription factors to chromatin. Thus, chromatin-immobilized activated Chk1 executed a dual function by suppressing DNA damage response and simultaneously inducing chromatin modulation. This caused undetected DNA damage and increased cellular proliferation through failure to transmit the appropriate DNA damage signal. Findings in vitro were corroborated by chromatin accumulation of activated Chk1, Ac-H3, Ac-H4, and c-Jun in active UC (AUC) in vivo. Targeting chromatin-bound Chk1, GCN5, PCAF, and p300/CBP could be a novel therapeutic strategy to prevent UC-related tumor progression.

Molecular profiling of mucosal tissue associated microbiota in patients manifesting acute exacerbations and remission stage of ulcerative colitis.

PubMed

Walujkar, Sandeep A; Kumbhare, Shreyas V; Marathe, Nachiket P; Patangia, Dhrati V; Lawate, Parimal S; Bharadwaj, Renu S; Shouche, Yogesh S

2018-05-23

Dysbiosis of intestinal microflora has been postulated in ulcerative colitis (UC), which is characterized by imbalance of mucosal tissue associated bacterial communities. However, the specific changes in mucosal microflora during different stages of UC are still unknown. The aim of the current study was to investigate the changes in mucosal tissue associated microbiota during acute exacerbations and remission stages of UC. The mucosal microbiota associated with colon biopsy of 12 patients suffering from UC (exacerbated stage) and the follow-up samples from the same patients (remission stage) as well as non-IBD subjects was studied using 16S rRNA gene-based sequencing and quantitative PCR. The total bacterial count in patients suffering from exacerbated phase of UC was observed to be two fold lower compared to that of the non-IBD subjects (p = 0.0049, Wilcox on matched-pairs signed rank tests). Bacterial genera including Stenotrophomonas, Parabacteroides, Elizabethkingia, Pseudomonas, Micrococcus, Ochrobactrum and Achromobacter were significantly higher in abundance during exacerbated phase of UC as compared to remission phase. The alterations in bacterial diversity with an increase in the abnormal microbial communities signify the extent of dysbiosis in mucosal microbiota in patients suffering from UC. Our study helps in identifying the specific genera dominating the microbiota during the disease and thus lays a basis for further investigation of the possible role of these bacteria in pathogenesis of UC.

Do pure squamous cell carcinomas and urothelial carcinomas have similar prognosis after radical cystectomy?

PubMed

Balci, Ugur; Ozer, Kutan; Gorgel, Sacit Nuri; Sefik, Ertugrul; Girgin, Cengiz; Dincel, Cetin

2013-10-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the surgical treatment results of urothelial carcinoma (UC) and pure squamous cell carcinoma of the bladder (SCC). The records of 460 patients who have undergone radical cystectomy in our department between the years 1991 and 2011 were analyzed retrospectively, and 364 patients with UC and 60 patients with pure SCC were evaluated. Average ages of the patients with UC and SCC were 61.12 ± 8.9 and 59.38 ± 8.6 years, respectively (p = 0.902). UC group had 29 female patients, whereas SCC group had 9 female patients (p = 0.077). The mean follow-up periods were 26.09 ± 24.75 months for UC group and 22.23 ± 31.01 months for SCC group (p = 0.805). The incidence of organ-confined, extravesical, lymph node-positive diseases in UC and SCC cases was 48.9 and 32.2, 29.3 and 32.2 %, 21.8 and 35.6 %, respectively (p = 0.028). Five-year disease-specific survival (DSS) rates were 57.5 % in UC and 39.1 % in SCC group (p = 0.011). Five-year DSS rates were 81.2 % in UC and 75.0 % in SCC group in organ-confined disease (p = 0.534) and 28.2 % in UC and 40.9 % in SCC group in extravesical disease (p = 0.845). In lymph node-positive patients, DSS time was 20.9 ± 2.85 months in UC and 12.8 ± 2.07 months in SCC patients (p = 0.182). In multivariate analysis, pT stage (HR: 2.221; 95 % CI: 1.695-2.911) and lymph node involvement (HR: 2.863; 95 % CI: 1.819-4.509) were independently associated with DSS (p < 0.001), but histological subtype (HR: 1.423; 95 % CI: 0.798-2.538) was not a statistically significant factor (p = 0.232). Although pure SCC cases are diagnosed at advanced stages of the disease, UC and pure SCC cases have similar prognosis by stages. Lymph node involvement and stages are the most important prognostic factors after radical cystectomy.

Longitudinal microbiome analysis of single donor fecal microbiota transplantation in patients with recurrent Clostridium difficile infection and/or ulcerative colitis

PubMed Central

Grewal, Suman; LaComb, Joseph F.; Park, Jiyhe; Channer, Breana; Rajapakse, Ramona; Bucobo, Juan Carlos; Buscaglia, Jonathan M.; Monzur, Farah; Chawla, Anupama; Yang, Jie; Robertson, Charlie E.; Frank, Daniel N.; Li, Ellen

2018-01-01

Background Studies of colonoscopic fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) in patients with recurrent CDI, indicate that this is a very effective treatment for preventing further relapses. In order to provide this service at Stony Brook University Hospital, we initiated an open-label prospective study of single colonoscopic FMT among patients with ≥ 2 recurrences of CDI, with the intention of monitoring microbial composition in the recipient before and after FMT, as compared with their respective donor. We also initiated a concurrent open label prospective trial of single colonoscopic FMT of patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) not responsive to therapy, after obtaining an IND permit (IND 15642). To characterize how FMT alters the fecal microbiota in patients with recurrent Clostridia difficile infections (CDI) and/or UC, we report the results of a pilot microbiome analysis of 11 recipients with a history of 2 or more recurrences of C. difficile infections without inflammatory bowel disease (CDI-only), 3 UC recipients with recurrent C. difficile infections (CDI + UC), and 5 UC recipients without a history of C. difficile infections (UC-only). Method V3V4 Illumina 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene sequencing was performed on the pre-FMT, 1-week post-FMT, and 3-months post-FMT recipient fecal samples along with those collected from the healthy donors. Fitted linear mixed models were used to examine the effects of Group (CDI-only, CDI + UC, UC-only), timing of FMT (Donor, pre-FMT, 1-week post-FMT, 3-months post-FMT) and first order Group*FMT interactions on the diversity and composition of fecal microbiota. Pairwise comparisons were then carried out on the recipient vs. donor and between the pre-FMT, 1-week post-FMT, and 3-months post-FMT recipient samples within each group. Results Significant effects of FMT on overall microbiota composition (e.g., beta diversity) were observed for the CDI-only and CDI + UC groups. Marked decreases in the relative abundances of the strictly anaerobic Bacteroidetes phylum, and two Firmicutes sub-phyla associated with butyrate production (Ruminococcaceae and Lachnospiraceae) were observed between the CDI-only and CDI + UC recipient groups. There were corresponding increases in the microaerophilic Proteobacteria phylum and the Firmicutes/Bacilli group in the CDI-only and CDI + UC recipient groups. At a more granular level, significant effects of FMT were observed for 81 genus-level operational taxonomic units (OTUs) in at least one of the three recipient groups (p<0.00016 with Bonferroni correction). Pairwise comparisons of the estimated pre-FMT recipient/donor relative abundance ratios identified 6 Gammaproteobacteria OTUs, including the Escherichia-Shigella genus, and 2 Fusobacteria OTUs with significantly increased relative abundance in the pre-FMT samples of all three recipient groups (FDR < 0.05), however the magnitude of the fold change was much larger in the CDI-only and CDI + UC recipients than in the UC-only recipients. Depletion of butyrate producing OTUs, such as Faecalibacterium, in the CDI-only and CDI + UC recipients, were restored after FMT. Conclusion The results from this pilot study suggest that the microbial imbalances in the CDI + UC recipients more closely resemble those of the CDI-only recipients than the UC-only recipients. PMID:29385143

Longitudinal microbiome analysis of single donor fecal microbiota transplantation in patients with recurrent Clostridium difficile infection and/or ulcerative colitis.

PubMed

Mintz, Michael; Khair, Shanawaj; Grewal, Suman; LaComb, Joseph F; Park, Jiyhe; Channer, Breana; Rajapakse, Ramona; Bucobo, Juan Carlos; Buscaglia, Jonathan M; Monzur, Farah; Chawla, Anupama; Yang, Jie; Robertson, Charlie E; Frank, Daniel N; Li, Ellen

2018-01-01

Studies of colonoscopic fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) in patients with recurrent CDI, indicate that this is a very effective treatment for preventing further relapses. In order to provide this service at Stony Brook University Hospital, we initiated an open-label prospective study of single colonoscopic FMT among patients with ≥ 2 recurrences of CDI, with the intention of monitoring microbial composition in the recipient before and after FMT, as compared with their respective donor. We also initiated a concurrent open label prospective trial of single colonoscopic FMT of patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) not responsive to therapy, after obtaining an IND permit (IND 15642). To characterize how FMT alters the fecal microbiota in patients with recurrent Clostridia difficile infections (CDI) and/or UC, we report the results of a pilot microbiome analysis of 11 recipients with a history of 2 or more recurrences of C. difficile infections without inflammatory bowel disease (CDI-only), 3 UC recipients with recurrent C. difficile infections (CDI + UC), and 5 UC recipients without a history of C. difficile infections (UC-only). V3V4 Illumina 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene sequencing was performed on the pre-FMT, 1-week post-FMT, and 3-months post-FMT recipient fecal samples along with those collected from the healthy donors. Fitted linear mixed models were used to examine the effects of Group (CDI-only, CDI + UC, UC-only), timing of FMT (Donor, pre-FMT, 1-week post-FMT, 3-months post-FMT) and first order Group*FMT interactions on the diversity and composition of fecal microbiota. Pairwise comparisons were then carried out on the recipient vs. donor and between the pre-FMT, 1-week post-FMT, and 3-months post-FMT recipient samples within each group. Significant effects of FMT on overall microbiota composition (e.g., beta diversity) were observed for the CDI-only and CDI + UC groups. Marked decreases in the relative abundances of the strictly anaerobic Bacteroidetes phylum, and two Firmicutes sub-phyla associated with butyrate production (Ruminococcaceae and Lachnospiraceae) were observed between the CDI-only and CDI + UC recipient groups. There were corresponding increases in the microaerophilic Proteobacteria phylum and the Firmicutes/Bacilli group in the CDI-only and CDI + UC recipient groups. At a more granular level, significant effects of FMT were observed for 81 genus-level operational taxonomic units (OTUs) in at least one of the three recipient groups (p<0.00016 with Bonferroni correction). Pairwise comparisons of the estimated pre-FMT recipient/donor relative abundance ratios identified 6 Gammaproteobacteria OTUs, including the Escherichia-Shigella genus, and 2 Fusobacteria OTUs with significantly increased relative abundance in the pre-FMT samples of all three recipient groups (FDR < 0.05), however the magnitude of the fold change was much larger in the CDI-only and CDI + UC recipients than in the UC-only recipients. Depletion of butyrate producing OTUs, such as Faecalibacterium, in the CDI-only and CDI + UC recipients, were restored after FMT. The results from this pilot study suggest that the microbial imbalances in the CDI + UC recipients more closely resemble those of the CDI-only recipients than the UC-only recipients.

Process for preparing metal-carbide-containing microspheres from metal-loaded resin beads

DOEpatents

Beatty, Ronald L.

1976-01-01

An improved method for treating metal-loaded resin microspheres is described which comprises heating a metal-loaded resin charge in an inert atmosphere at a pre-carbide-forming temperature under such conditions as to produce a microsphere composition having sufficient carbon as to create a substantially continuous carbon matrix and a metal-carbide or an oxide-carbide mixture as a dispersed phase(s) during carbide-forming conditions, and then heating the thus treated charge to a carbide-forming temperature.

Relationships among DNA hypomethylation, Cd, and Pb exposure and risk of cigarette smoking-related urothelial carcinoma

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

Chung, Chi-Jung

Cigarette smoking and environmental exposure to heavy metals are important global health issues, especially for urothelial carcinoma (UC). However, the effects of cadmium and lead exposure, as well as the levels of DNA hypomethylation, on UC risk are limited. We evaluated the possible exposure sources of Cd and Pb and the relationship among DNA hypomethylation, urinary Cd and Pb levels, and UC risk. We recruited 209 patients with UC and 417 control patients for a hospital-based case–control study between June 2011 and August 2014. We collected environmental exposure-related information with questionnaires. Blood and urine samples were analyzed to measure themore » Cd and Pb exposure and 5-methyl-2′-deoxycytidine levels as a proxy for DNA methylation. Multivariate logistic regression and 95% confidence intervals were applied to estimate the risk for UC. Study participants with high Cd and Pb exposure in blood or urine had significantly increased risk of UC, especially among the smokers. After adjusting for age and gender, the possible connections of individual cumulative cigarette smoking or herb medicine exposure with the increased levels of Cd and Pb were observed in the controls. Participants with 8.66%–12.39% of DNA hypomethylation had significantly increased risk of UC compared with those with ≥ 12.39% of DNA hypomethylation. Environmental factors including cigarette smoking and herb medicine may contribute to the internal dose of heavy metals levels. Repeat measurements of heavy metals with different study design, detailed dietary information, and types of herb medicine should be recommended for exploring UC carcinogenesis in future studies. - Highlights: • Smoking and herb medicine ingestion is associated with increased urinary Cd and Pb levels. • Urinary levels of Cd and Pb are associated with increased risk of UC. • UC carcinogenesis might have partially resulted from DNA hypomethylation.« less

Interns reflect: the effect of formative assessment with feedback during pre-internship.

PubMed

McKenzie, Susan; Burgess, Annette; Mellis, Craig

2017-01-01

It is widely known that the opportunity for medical students to be observed and to receive feedback on their procedural skills performance is variable in the senior years. To address this problem, we provided our Pre-Intern (PrInt) students with "one-to-one" formative feedback on their ability to perform urethral catheterization (U/C) and hypothesized that their future practice of U/C as interns would benefit. This study sought to evaluate the performance and practice of interns in U/C 4-5 months after having received feedback on their performance of U/C as PrInt students. Between 2013 and 2014, two cohorts of interns, (total n=66) who had received recent formative feedback on their U/C performance as PrInt students at Central Clinical School, were invited to complete an anonymous survey. The survey contained nine closed unvalidated questions and one open-ended question, designed to allow interns to report on their current practice of U/C. Forty-one out of 66 interns (62%) completed the survey. Thirty-five out of 41 respondents (85%) reported that the assessment with feedback during their PrInt term was beneficial to their practice. Thirty of 41 (73%) reported being confident to perform U/C independently. Eleven out of 41 respondents (27%) reported that they had received additional training at intern orientation. Nine of the 11 interns (82%) reported that they had a small, but a significant, increase in confidence to perform U/C when compared with the 30 of the 41 respondents (73%) who had not ( p =0.03). Our results substantiate our hypothesis that further education by assessment with feedback in U/C during PrInt was of benefit to interns' performance. Additional educational reinforcement in U/C during intern orientation further improved intern confidence. Our results indicate that extra pre- and post-graduation procedural skills training, with feedback, should be universal.

Interns reflect: the effect of formative assessment with feedback during pre-internship

PubMed Central

McKenzie, Susan; Burgess, Annette; Mellis, Craig

2017-01-01

Background It is widely known that the opportunity for medical students to be observed and to receive feedback on their procedural skills performance is variable in the senior years. To address this problem, we provided our Pre-Intern (PrInt) students with “one-to-one” formative feedback on their ability to perform urethral catheterization (U/C) and hypothesized that their future practice of U/C as interns would benefit. This study sought to evaluate the performance and practice of interns in U/C 4–5 months after having received feedback on their performance of U/C as PrInt students. Methods Between 2013 and 2014, two cohorts of interns, (total n=66) who had received recent formative feedback on their U/C performance as PrInt students at Central Clinical School, were invited to complete an anonymous survey. The survey contained nine closed unvalidated questions and one open-ended question, designed to allow interns to report on their current practice of U/C. Results Forty-one out of 66 interns (62%) completed the survey. Thirty-five out of 41 respondents (85%) reported that the assessment with feedback during their PrInt term was beneficial to their practice. Thirty of 41 (73%) reported being confident to perform U/C independently. Eleven out of 41 respondents (27%) reported that they had received additional training at intern orientation. Nine of the 11 interns (82%) reported that they had a small, but a significant, increase in confidence to perform U/C when compared with the 30 of the 41 respondents (73%) who had not (p=0.03). Conclusion Our results substantiate our hypothesis that further education by assessment with feedback in U/C during PrInt was of benefit to interns’ performance. Additional educational reinforcement in U/C during intern orientation further improved intern confidence. Our results indicate that extra pre- and post-graduation procedural skills training, with feedback, should be universal. PMID:28138270

Extracellular Vesicles Released from Human Umbilical Cord-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Prevent Life-Threatening Acute Graft-Versus-Host Disease in a Mouse Model of Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation.

PubMed

Wang, Li; Gu, Zhenyang; Zhao, Xiaoli; Yang, Nan; Wang, Feiyan; Deng, Ailing; Zhao, Shasha; Luo, Lan; Wei, Huaping; Guan, Lixun; Gao, Zhe; Li, Yonghui; Wang, Lili; Liu, Daihong; Gao, Chunji

2016-12-15

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are attractive agents for the prophylaxis of acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD) after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). However, safety concerns remain about their clinical application. In this study, we explored whether extracellular vesicles released from human umbilical cord-derived MSCs (hUC-MSC-EVs) could prevent aGVHD in a mouse model of allo-HSCT. hUC-MSC-EVs were intravenously administered to recipient mice on days 0 and 7 after allo-HSCT, and the prophylactic effects of hUC-MSC-EVs were assessed by observing the in vivo manifestations of aGVHD, histologic changes in target organs, and recipient mouse survival. We evaluated the effects of hUC-MSC-EVs on immune cells and inflammatory cytokines by flow cytometry and ProcartaPlex™ Multiplex Immunoassays, respectively. The in vitro effects of hUC-MSC-EVs were determined by mitogen-induced proliferation assays. hUC-MSC-EVs alleviated the in vivo manifestations of aGVHD and the associated histologic changes and significantly reduced the mortality of the recipient mice. Recipients treated with hUC-MSC-EVs had significantly lower frequencies and absolute numbers of CD3 + CD8 + T cells; reduced serum levels of IL-2, TNF-α, and IFN-γ; a higher ratio of CD3 + CD4 + and CD3 + CD8 + T cells; and higher serum levels of IL-10. An in vitro experiment demonstrated that hUC-MSC-EVs inhibited the mitogen-induced proliferation of splenocytes in a dose-dependent manner, and the cytokine changes were similar to those observed in vivo. This study indicated that hUC-MSC-EVs can prevent life-threatening aGVHD by modulating immune responses. These data provide the first evidence that hUC-MSC-EVs represent an ideal alternative in the prophylaxis of aGVHD after allo-HSCT.

Direct comparison of two different mesalamine formulations for the induction of remission in patients with ulcerative colitis: A double-blind, randomized study

PubMed Central

Ito, Hiroaki; Iida, Mitsuo; Matsumoto, Takayuki; Suzuki, Yasuo; Sasaki, Hidetaka; Yoshida, Toyomitsu; Takano, Yuichi; Hibi, Toshifumi

2010-01-01

Background: Mesalamine is the first-line drug for the treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC). We directly compared the efficacy and safety of two mesalamine formulations for the induction of remission in patients with UC. Methods: In a multicenter, double-blind, randomized study, 229 patients with mild-to-moderate active UC were assigned to 4 groups: 66 and 65 received a pH-dependent release formulation of 2.4 g/day (pH-2.4 g) or 3.6 g/day (pH-3.6 g), respectively; 65 received a time-dependent release formulation of 2.25 g/day (Time-2.25 g), and 33 received placebo (Placebo). The drugs were administered three times daily for eight weeks. The primary endpoint was a decrease in the UC disease activity index (UC-DAI). Results: In the full analysis set (n = 225) the decrease in UC-DAI in each group was 1.5 in pH-2.4 g, 2.9 in pH-3.6 g, 1.3 in Time-2.25 g and 0.3 in Placebo, respectively. These results demonstrate the superiority of pH-3.6 g over Time-2.25 g (P = 0.003) and the noninferiority of pH-2.4 g to Time-2.25 g. Among the patients with proctitis-type UC, a significant decrease in UC-DAI was observed in pH-2.4 g and pH-3.6 g as compared to Placebo, but not in Time-2.25 g. No differences were observed in the safety profiles. Conclusions: Higher dose of the pH-dependent release formulation was more effective for induction of remission in patients with mild-to-moderate active UC. Additionally, the pH-dependent release formulation was preferable to the time-dependent release formulation for patients with proctitis-type UC (UMIN Clinical Trials Registry, no. C000000288). (Inflamm Bowel Dis 2010) PMID:20049950

The risk of bladder cancer in patients with urinary calculi: a meta-analysis.

PubMed

Yu, Zhang; Yue, Wu; Jiuzhi, Li; Youtao, Jiang; Guofei, Zhang; Wenbin, Guo

2018-01-05

The objective of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the association between a history of urinary calculi (UC) and the risk of bladder cancer (BC). A literature search was performed from inception until July 2017. Studies that reported odds ratios (OR), relative risks or hazard ratios comparing the risk of BC in patients with the history of UC vs those without the history of UC were included. Pooled odds ratios and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated using a random-effect or fixed-effect method. Thirteen studies were included in our analysis to assess the association between a history of UC and risk of BC. The pooled OR of BC in patients with UC was 1.87 (95% CI, 1.45-2.41). Bladder calculi [OR, 2.17 (95% CI, 1.52-3.08)] had a higher risk of BC than kidney calculi [OR, 1.39 (95% CI, 1.06-1.82)]. The subjects had a history of UC that was associated with increased BC risk both in males [OR, 2.04 (95% CI, 1.41-2.96)] and in females [OR, 2.99 (95% CI, 2.37-3.76)]. The subgroup analysis demonstrated that UC increasing risk of BC both in case-control studies [OR, 1.75 (95% CI, 1.25-2.45)] and cohort studies [OR, 2.27 (95% CI, 1.55-3.32)]. The pooled OR of BC risk in patients with UC were 1.60 (95% CI, 1.15-2.24) in America, 1.36 (95% CI, 1.14-1.64) in Europe and 3.05 (95% CI, 2.21-4.21) in Asia, respectively. Our study demonstrates a significant increased risk of BC in patients with prior UC. This finding suggests that a history of UC is associated with BC and may impact clinical management and cancer surveillance. Further studies still needed to confirm the findings.

Gastroenterologists' Perceptions Regarding Ulcerative Colitis and Its Management: Results from a Large-Scale Survey.

PubMed

Lasch, Karen; Liu, Stephen; Ursos, Lyann; Mody, Reema; King-Concialdi, Kristen; DiBonaventura, Marco; Leberman, Julie; Dubinsky, Marla

2016-10-01

Misperceptions about ulcerative colitis (UC) may influence management strategies and limit opportunities for improving patient outcomes. This study assessed physicians' perceptions of UC, concepts of disease severity and remission, and treatment goals. Gastroenterologists who typically treated ≥10 adults with UC per month were recruited for a large-scale, web-based survey. Participants were asked about their perceptions of UC (often vs. Crohn's disease [CD]), treatment goals, and medication use. Response data were evaluated via descriptive statistics and univariate and multivariable analyses. Gastroenterologists (N = 500) with a mean of 16.5 years (standard deviation, 8.7 years) in practice participated. In comparison to CD, survey respondents perceived UC as being easier to diagnose, having better treatment outcomes, and being associated with later prescribing of biologics. Treatment goals commonly considered to have the greatest importance included quality of life improvement (31.2% of respondents), maintenance of clinical remission (17.4%), and mucosal healing (17.4%). When respondents evaluated the performance of medication classes in achieving these goals, biologics were rated significantly higher than all other classes (P < 0.05). However, the most common drivers for the initiation of biologic therapy were the development of steroid refractoriness (66.8%) and steroid dependency (65.8%). Medication class use by UC severity was generally consistent with the traditional step-up approach to UC therapy, with biologics being used most commonly for severe UC. These results suggest a possible disparity between treatment goals and therapeutic management in UC. An increased awareness of general UC perceptions is an important step toward a better overall understanding of the disease and, ultimately, toward improved management aligned with treatment goals. This study was sponsored by the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA), and the design and conduct of the study as well as article processing charges and the open access fee for this publication were funded by Takeda Pharmaceuticals International, Inc. (TPI).

Fragments of Citrullinated and MMP-degraded Vimentin and MMP-degraded Type III Collagen Are Novel Serological Biomarkers to Differentiate Crohn's Disease from Ulcerative Colitis.

PubMed

Mortensen, Joachim Høg; Godskesen, Line Elbjerg; Jensen, Michael Dam; Van Haaften, Wouter Tobias; Klinge, Lone Gabriels; Olinga, Peter; Dijkstra, Gerard; Kjeldsen, Jens; Karsdal, Morten Asser; Bay-Jensen, Anne-Christine; Krag, Aleksander

2015-10-01

A hallmark of inflammatory bowel disease [IBD] is chronic inflammation, which leads to excessive extracellular matrix [ECM] remodelling and release of specific protein fragments, called neoepitopes. We speculated that the biomarker profile panel for ulcerative colitis [UC] and Crohn's disease [CD] represent a heterogeneous expression pattern, and may be applied as a tool to aid in the differentiation between UC and CD. Serum biomarkers of degraded collagens I, III-IV [C1M, C3M, and C4M], collagen type 1 and IV formation [P1NP, P4NP], and citrullinated and MMP-degraded vimentin [VICM] were studied with a competitive ELISA assay system in a cohort including 164 subjects [CD n = 72, UC n = 60, and non-IBD controls n = 32] and a validation cohort of 61 subjects [CD n = 46, and UC n = 15]. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis and logistic regression modelling were carried out to evaluate the discriminative power of the biomarkers. All biomarkers were corrected for confounding factors. VICM and C3M demonstrated the highest diagnostic power, alone, to differentiate CD from UC with an area under the curve [AUC] of 0.77 and 0.69, respectively. Furthermore, the biomarkers C1M [AUC = 0.81], C3M [AUC = 0.83], VICM [AUC = 0.83], and P1NP [AUC = 0.77] were best to differentiate UC from non-IBD. The best combinations of biomarkers to differentiate CD from UC and UC from non-IBD were VICM, C3M, C4M [AUC = 0.90] and VICM, C3M [AUC = 0.98] respectively. Specific extracellular matrix degradation markers are elevated in IBD and can discriminate CD from UC and UC from non-IBD controls with a high diagnostic accuracy. Copyright © 2015 European Crohn’s and Colitis Organisation (ECCO). Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Beverage consumption and risk of ulcerative colitis: Systematic review and meta-analysis of epidemiological studies.

PubMed

Nie, Jia-Yan; Zhao, Qiu

2017-12-01

Epidemiological studies have provided controversial evidence between beverage consumption and the risk of ulcerative colitis (UC). This study aimed to determine the role of beverage consumption in the development of UC. A systematic search was conducted in public databases to identify all relevant studies, and study-specific relative risks (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were pooled using a random-effects model. Sixteen studies were identified with a total of 3689 cases and 335,339 controls. Alcohol consumption showed no significant association with UC risk (RR for the highest vs the lowest consumption level: 0.95, 95% CI: 0.65-1.39). Coffee consumption tended to be inversely associated with UC risk (RR: 0.58, 95% CI: 0.33-1.05), but it was not significant and confounded by smoking adjustment. Soft drinks consumption was associated with UC risk (RR: 1.69, 95% CI: 1.24-2.30), and tea consumption was inversely associated with UC risk (RR: 0.69, 95% CI: 0.58-0.83). In conclusion, high consumption of soft drinks might increase the risk of UC, while tea consumption might decrease the risk.

The Role of Triplet Exciton Diffusion in Light-Upconverting Polymer Glasses.

PubMed

Raišys, Steponas; Kazlauskas, Karolis; Juršėnas, Saulius; Simon, Yoan C

2016-06-22

Light upconversion (UC) via triplet-triplet annihilation (TTA) by using noncoherent photoexcitation at subsolar irradiance power densities is extremely attractive, particularly for enhanced solar energy harvesting. Unfortunately, practical TTA-UC application is hampered by low UC efficiency of upconverting polymer glasses, which is commonly attributed to poor exciton diffusion of the triplet excitons across emitter molecules. The present study addresses this issue by systematically evaluating triplet exciton diffusion coefficients and diffusion lengths (LD) in a UC model system based on platinum-octaethylporphyrin-sensitized poly(methyl methacrylate)/diphenylanthracene (emitter) films as a function of emitter concentration (15-40 wt %). For this evaluation time-resolved photoluminescence bulk-quenching technique followed by Stern-Volmer-type quenching analysis of experimental data was employed. The key finding is that although increasing emitter concentration in the disordered PMMA/DPA/PtOEP films improves triplet exciton diffusion, and thus LD, this does not result in enhanced UC quantum yield. Conversely, improved LD accompanied by the accelerated decay of UC intensity on millisecond time scale degrades TTA-UC performance at high emitter loadings (>25 wt %) and suggests that diffusion-enhanced nonradiative decay of triplet excitons is the major limiting factor.

Methods of producing continuous boron carbide fibers

DOEpatents

Garnier, John E.; Griffith, George W.

2015-12-01

Methods of producing continuous boron carbide fibers. The method comprises reacting a continuous carbon fiber material and a boron oxide gas within a temperature range of from approximately 1400.degree. C. to approximately 2200.degree. C. Continuous boron carbide fibers, continuous fibers comprising boron carbide, and articles including at least a boron carbide coating are also disclosed.

Natural precursor based hydrothermal synthesis of sodium carbide for reactor applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Swapna, M. S.; Saritha Devi, H. V.; Sebastian, Riya; Ambadas, G.; Sankararaman, S.

2017-12-01

Carbides are a class of materials with high mechanical strength and refractory nature which finds a wide range of applications in industries and nuclear reactors. The existing synthesis methods of all types of carbides have problems in terms of use of toxic chemical precursors, high-cost, etc. Sodium carbide (Na2C2) which is an alkali metal carbide is the least explored one and also that there is no report of low-cost and low-temperature synthesis of sodium carbide using the eco-friendly, easily available natural precursors. In the present work, we report a simple low-cost, non-toxic hydrothermal synthesis of refractory sodium carbide using the natural precursor—Pandanus. The formation of sodium carbide along with boron carbide is evidenced by the structural and morphological characterizations. The sample thus synthesized is subjected to field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), x-ray powder diffraction (XRD), ultraviolet (UV)—visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman, and photoluminescent (PL) spectroscopic techniques.

Surface and Bulk Carbide Transformations in High-Speed Steel

PubMed Central

Godec, M.; Večko Pirtovšek, T.; Šetina Batič, B.; McGuiness, P.; Burja, J.; Podgornik, B.

2015-01-01

We have studied the transformation of carbides in AISI M42 high-speed steels in the temperature window used for forging. The annealing was found to result in the partial transformation of the large, metastable M2C carbides into small, more stable grains of M6C, with an associated change in the crystal orientation. In addition, MC carbides form during the transformation of M2C to M6C. From the high-speed-steel production point of view, it is beneficial to have large, metastable carbides in the cast structure, which later during annealing, before the forging, transform into a structure of polycrystalline carbides. Such carbides can be easily decomposed into several small carbides, which are then randomly distributed in the microstructure. The results also show an interesting difference in the carbide-transformation reactions on the surface versus the bulk of the alloy, which has implications for in-situ studies of bulk phenomena that are based on surface observations. PMID:26537780

Improved toughness of silicon carbide

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Palm, J. A.

1975-01-01

Several techniques were employed to apply or otherwise form porous layers of various materials on the surface of hot-pressed silicon carbide ceramic. From mechanical properties measurements and studies, it was concluded that although porous layers could be applied to the silicon carbide ceramic, sufficient damage was done to the silicon carbide surface by the processing required so as to drastically reduce its mechanical strength. It was further concluded that there was little promise of success in forming an effective energy absorbing layer on the surface of already densified silicon carbide ceramic that would have the mechanical strength of the untreated or unsurfaced material. Using a process for the pressureless sintering of silicon carbide powders it was discovered that porous layers of silicon carbide could be formed on a dense, strong silicon carbide substrate in a single consolidation process.

Predictors of Outcome in Ulcerative Colitis.

PubMed

Waterman, Matti; Knight, Jo; Dinani, Amreen; Xu, Wei; Stempak, Joanne M; Croitoru, Kenneth; Nguyen, Geoffrey C; Cohen, Zane; McLeod, Robin S; Greenberg, Gordon R; Steinhart, A Hillary; Silverberg, Mark S

2015-09-01

Approximately 80% of patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) have intermittently active disease and up to 20% will require a colectomy, but little data available on predictors of poor disease course. The aim of this study was to identify clinical and genetic markers that can predict prognosis. Medical records of patients with UC with ≥5 years of follow-up and available DNA and serum were retrospectively assessed. Immunochip was used to genotype loci associated with immune mediated inflammatory disorders (IMIDs), inflammatory bowel diseases, and other single nucleotide polypmorphisms previously associated with disease severity. Serum levels of pANCA, ASCA, CBir1, and OmpC were also evaluated. Requirement for colectomy, medication, and hospitalization were used to group patients into 3 prognostic groups. Six hundred one patients with UC were classified as mild (n = 78), moderate (n = 273), or severe disease (n = 250). Proximal disease location frequencies at diagnosis were 13%, 21%, and 30% for mild, moderate, and severe UC, respectively (P = 0.001). Disease severity was associated with greater proximal extension rates on follow-up (P < 0.0001) and with shorter time to extension (P = 0.03) and to prednisone initiation (P = 0.0004). When comparing severe UC with mild and moderate UC together, diagnosis age >40 and proximal disease location were associated with severe UC (odds ratios = 1.94 and 2.12, respectively). None of the single nucleotide polypmorphisms or serum markers tested was associated with severe UC, proximal disease extension or colectomy. Older age and proximal disease location at diagnosis, but not genetic and serum markers, were associated with a more severe course. Further work is required to identify biomarkers that will predict outcomes in UC.

Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells Inhibit the Function of Allogeneic Activated Vγ9Vδ2 T Lymphocytes In Vitro

PubMed Central

Liu, Xiaohuan; Feng, Ting; Gong, Tianxiang; Shen, Chongyang; Zhu, Tingting; Wu, Qihong; Li, Qiang; Li, Hong

2015-01-01

Background. Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs) can regulate the function of immune cells. However, whether and how UC-MSCs can modulate the function of Vγ9Vδ2 T cells has not been fully understood. Methods. The PBMCs or Vγ9Vδ2 T cells were activated and expanded with pamidronate (PAM) and interleukin-2 (IL-2) with or without the presence UC-MSCs. The effects of UC-MSCs on the proliferation, cytokine expression, and cytotoxicity of Vγ9Vδ2 T cells were determined by flow cytometry. The effects of UC-MSCs on Fas-L, TRAIL-expressing Vγ9Vδ2 T cells, and Vγ9Vδ2 T cell apoptosis were determined by flow cytometry. Results. UC-MSCs inhibited Vγ9Vδ2 T cell proliferation in a dose-dependent but cell-contact independent manner. Coculture with UC-MSCs reduced the frequency of IFNγ+ but increased granzyme B+ Vγ9Vδ2 T cells. UC-MSCs inhibited the cytotoxicity of Vγ9Vδ2 T cells against influenza virus H1N1 infected A549 cells and also reduced the frequency of Fas-L+, TRAIL+ Vγ9Vδ2 T cells but failed to modulate the apoptosis of Vγ9Vδ2 T cells. Conclusions. These results indicated that UC-MSCs efficiently suppressed the proliferation and cytotoxicity of Vγ9Vδ2 T cells and modulated their cytokine production. Fas-L and TRAIL were involved in the regulation. Cell contact and apoptosis of Vγ9Vδ2 T cells were not necessary for the inhibition. PMID:25984529

Mesenchymal Stem Cells Promote the Osteogenesis in Collagen-Induced Arthritic Mice through the Inhibition of TNF-α

PubMed Central

Liu, Chang; Tang, Xiaojun; Feng, Ruihai; Yao, Genhong; Chen, Weiwei; Li, Wenchao; Liang, Jun; Feng, Xuebing

2018-01-01

Objective To investigate the effects of umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell (UC-MSC) transplantation on joint damage and osteoporosis in collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) mice and to explore the mechanisms by which UC-MSCs modulate the osteogenic differentiation. Methods CIA mice were divided into the following treated groups: UC-MSC transplantation group, antitumor necrosis factor- (TNF-) α group, and zoledronic acid (ZA) group. Microcomputed tomography (micro-CT) was used to analyze the bone morphology parameters. Osteogenic differentiation of treated CIA mice was determined. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) from CIA mice were treated with TNF-α in vitro to explore their effects on osteogenesis. Results The arthritis score was significantly reduced in the UC-MSC transplantation and anti-TNF-α-treated CIA groups, compared with control mice (P < 0.001). Micro-CT showed that CIA mice developed osteoporosis at 12 weeks after immunization. The bone morphology parameters were partially improved in UC-MSC-treated CIA mice. Impaired osteogenic differentiation functions were indicated by decreased ALP activity (P < 0.001) and reduced mRNA and protein levels of osteogenic marker genes (P < 0.05) in CIA mice compared with DBA/1 mice. UC-MSC treatment significantly upregulated the impaired osteogenic differentiation ability in CIA mice. Meanwhile, the serum TNF-α level was decreased significantly in the UC-MSC group. The osteogenesis was reduced with the addition of TNF-α in vitro. Conclusion This study demonstrated that UC-MSC transplantation not only significantly improved the joint damage but also played a beneficial role in osteoporosis in CIA mice. Mechanistically, the improved osteogenic differentiation of CIA under UC-MSC treatment may be achieved by inhibition of TNF-α. PMID:29853911

Clinical epidemiology of ulcerative colitis in Arabs based on the Montréal classification.

PubMed

Alharbi, Othman R; Azzam, Nahla A; Almalki, Ahmed S; Almadi, Majid A; Alswat, Khalid A; Sadaf, Nazia; Aljebreen, Abdulrahman M

2014-12-14

To determine the clinical, epidemiological and phenotypic characteristics of ulcerative colitis (UC) in Saudi Arabia by studying the largest cohort of Arab UC patients. Data from UC patients attending gastroenterology clinics in four tertiary care centers in three cities between September 2009 and September 2013 were entered into a validated web-based registry, inflammatory bowel disease information system (IBDIS). The IBDIS database covers numerous aspects of inflammatory bowel disease. Patient characteristics, disease phenotype and behavior, age at diagnosis, course of the disease, and extraintestinal manifestations were recorded. Among 394 UC patients, males comprised 51.0% and females 49.0%. According to the Montréal classification of age, the major chunk of our patients belonged to the A2 category for age of diagnosis at 17-40 years (68.4%), while 24.2% belonged to the A3 category for age of diagnosis at > 40 years. According to the same classification, a majority of patients had extensive UC (42.7%), 35.3% had left-sided colitis and 29.2% had only proctitis. Moreover, 51.3% were in remission, 16.6% had mild UC, 23.4% had moderate UC and 8.6% had severe UC. Frequent relapse occurred in 17.4% patients, infrequent relapse in 77% and 4.8% had chronic disease. A majority (85.2%) of patients was steroid responsive. With regard to extraintestinal manifestations, arthritis was present in 16.4%, osteopenia in 31.4%, osteoporosis in 17.1% and cutaneous involvement in 7.0%. The majority of UC cases were young people (17-40 years), with a male preponderance. While the disease course was found to be similar to that reported in Western countries, more similarities were found with Asian countries with regards to the extent of the disease and response to steroid therapy.

Reducing unnecessary urinary catheter use and other strategies to prevent catheter-associated urinary tract infection: an integrative review

PubMed Central

Meddings, Jennifer; Rogers, Mary A M; Krein, Sarah L; Fakih, Mohamad G; Olmsted, Russell N; Saint, Sanjay

2014-01-01

Background Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI) are costly, common and often preventable by reducing unnecessary urinary catheter (UC) use. Methods To summarise interventions to reduce UC use and CAUTIs, we updated a prior systematic review (through October 2012), and a meta-analysis regarding interventions prompting UC removal by reminders or stop orders. A narrative review summarises other CAUTI prevention strategies including aseptic insertion, catheter maintenance, antimicrobial UCs, and bladder bundle implementation. Results 30 studies were identified and summarised with interventions to prompt removal of UCs, with potential for inclusion in the meta-analyses. By meta-analysis (11 studies), the rate of CAUTI (episodes per 1000 catheter-days) was reduced by 53% (rate ratio 0.47; 95% CI 0.30 to 0.64, p<0.001) using a reminder or stop order, with five studies also including interventions to decrease initial UC placement. The pooled (nine studies) standardised mean difference (SMD) in catheterisation duration (days) was −1.06 overall (p=0.065) including a statistically significant decrease in stop-order studies (SMD −0.37; p<0.001) but not in reminder studies (SMD, −1.54; p=0.071). No significant harm from catheter removal strategies is supported. Limited research is available regarding the impact of UC insertion and maintenance technique. A recent randomised controlled trial indicates antimicrobial catheters provide no significant benefit in preventing symptomatic CAUTIs. Conclusions UC reminders and stop orders appear to reduce CAUTI rates and should be used to improve patient safety. Several evidence-based guidelines have evaluated CAUTI preventive strategies as well as emerging evidence regarding intervention bundles. Implementation strategies are important because reducing UC use involves changing well-established habits. PMID:24077850

Nutritional modulators of ulcerative colitis: Clinical efficacies and mechanistic view

PubMed Central

Sung, Mi-Kyung; Park, Mi-Young

2013-01-01

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammation-associated disease of the colon and rectum. The onset and progress of the disease are directly influenced by the nature of the intestinal microflora, the intestinal barrier function, and the immunological responses of the host. The epithelial invasion of pathogenic bacteria due to excess contact and/or barrier dysfunction is related to inflammation mediated by intestinal immune responses. Although the etiology of UC is not clearly understood, recent studies have shown a rising incidence of UC worldwide, and this phenomenon is more prominent in Asian countries and in Asian immigrants in Western countries. The increased prevalence of UC also contributes to an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer. Environmental factors, including changes in dietary habits, have been suggested as major risk factors of UC. A systematic review showed a negative association between UC risk and vegetable intake, whereas total fat, omega-6 fatty acids and meat intake were positively associated with an increased risk of UC. Individual dietary factors and energy balance have been suggested as having important roles in inducing changes in the microbial population and intestinal barrier integrity and in regulating inflammatory immune responses, directly or indirectly. Excess energy intake is now known to increase pathogenic microbial populations. Likewise, the application of appropriate probiotics may reverse the pathogenic progression of the disease. In the meantime, dietary anti-inflammatory compounds, including omega-3 fatty acids and other phytochemicals, may directly suppress inflammatory responses in the course of UC development. In this review, the increased prevalence of UC and its management are interpreted from the standpoint of nutritional modulation to regulate the intestinal microflora population, intestinal epithelium permeability, and inflammatory responses. PMID:23467687

Nutritional modulators of ulcerative colitis: clinical efficacies and mechanistic view.

PubMed

Sung, Mi-Kyung; Park, Mi-Young

2013-02-21

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammation-associated disease of the colon and rectum. The onset and progress of the disease are directly influenced by the nature of the intestinal microflora, the intestinal barrier function, and the immunological responses of the host. The epithelial invasion of pathogenic bacteria due to excess contact and/or barrier dysfunction is related to inflammation mediated by intestinal immune responses. Although the etiology of UC is not clearly understood, recent studies have shown a rising incidence of UC worldwide, and this phenomenon is more prominent in Asian countries and in Asian immigrants in Western countries. The increased prevalence of UC also contributes to an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer. Environmental factors, including changes in dietary habits, have been suggested as major risk factors of UC. A systematic review showed a negative association between UC risk and vegetable intake, whereas total fat, omega-6 fatty acids and meat intake were positively associated with an increased risk of UC. Individual dietary factors and energy balance have been suggested as having important roles in inducing changes in the microbial population and intestinal barrier integrity and in regulating inflammatory immune responses, directly or indirectly. Excess energy intake is now known to increase pathogenic microbial populations. Likewise, the application of appropriate probiotics may reverse the pathogenic progression of the disease. In the meantime, dietary anti-inflammatory compounds, including omega-3 fatty acids and other phytochemicals, may directly suppress inflammatory responses in the course of UC development. In this review, the increased prevalence of UC and its management are interpreted from the standpoint of nutritional modulation to regulate the intestinal microflora population, intestinal epithelium permeability, and inflammatory responses.

TRPV2 activation induces apoptotic cell death in human T24 bladder cancer cells: a potential therapeutic target for bladder cancer.

PubMed

Yamada, Takahiro; Ueda, Takashi; Shibata, Yasuhiro; Ikegami, Yosuke; Saito, Masaki; Ishida, Yusuke; Ugawa, Shinya; Kohri, Kenjiro; Shimada, Shoichi

2010-08-01

To investigate the functional expression of the transient receptor potential vanilloid 2 (TRPV2) channel protein in human urothelial carcinoma (UC) cells and to determine whether calcium influx into UC cells through TRPV2 is involved in apoptotic cell death. The expression of TRPV2 mRNA in bladder cancer cell lines (T24, a poorly differentiated UC cell line and RT4, a well-differentiated UC cell line) was analyzed using reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. The calcium permeability of TRPV2 channels in T24 cells was investigated using a calcium imaging assay that used cannabidiol (CBD), a relatively selective TRPV2 agonist, and ruthenium red (RuR), a nonselective TRPV channel antagonist. The death of T24 or RT4 cells in the presence of CBD was evaluated using a cellular viability assay. Apoptosis of T24 cells caused by CBD was confirmed using an annexin-V assay and small interfering RNA (siRNA) silencing of TRPV2. TRPV2 mRNA was abundantly expressed in T24 cells. The expression level in UC cells was correlated with high-grade disease. The administration of CBD increased intracellular calcium concentrations in T24 cells. In addition, the viability of T24 cells progressively decreased with increasing concentrations of CBD, whereas RT4 cells were mostly unaffected. Cell death occurred via apoptosis caused by continuous influx of calcium through TRPV2. TRPV2 channels in UC cells are calcium-permeable and the regulation of calcium influx through these channels leads directly to the death of UC cells. TRPV2 channels in UC cells may be a potential new therapeutic target, especially in higher-grade UC cells. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

DNA methylation of ESR-1 and N-33 in colorectal mucosa of patients with ulcerative colitis (UC).

PubMed

Arasaradnam, Ramesh P; Khoo, Kevin; Bradburn, Mike; Mathers, John C; Kelly, Seamus B

2010-07-01

Epigenetic marking such as DNA methylation influence gene transcription and chromosomal stability and may also be affected by environmental exposures. Few studies exist on alteration in DNA methylation profiles (genomic and gene specific methylation) in patients with Ulcerative Colitis (UC) and no studies exist that assess its relationship with lifestyle exposures. The methylation level of both ESR-1 and N-33 genes were significantly higher in UC subjects compared with controls (7.9% vs. 5.9%; p = 0.015 and 66% vs. 9.3%; p < 0.001 respectively). There was no detectable difference in global DNA methylation between patients with UC and age and sex matched controls. No associations between indices of DNA methylation and anthropometric measures or smoking patterns were detected. To assess genomic methylation and promoter methylation of the ESR-1 (oestrogen receptor-1) and N-33 (tumor suppressor candidate-3) genes in the macroscopically normal mucosa of UC patients as well as to investigate effects of anthropometric and lifestyle exposures on DNA methylation. Sixty eight subjects were recruited (24 UC and 44 age and sex matched controls). Colorectal mucosal biopsies were obtained and DNA was extracted. Genomic DNA methylation was quantified using the tritium-labelled cytosine extension assay (3[H] dCTP) while gene specific methylation was quantified using the COBRA method. For the first time, we have shown increased methylation in the promoter regions of the putative tumor suppressor gene N-33 in macroscopically normal mucosa of patients with UC. In addition, we have confirmed that methylation of ESR-1 promoter is higher in UC patients compared with age and sex matched controls. These findings suggest that inactivation through methylation of the putative tumor suppressor genes N-33 and ESR-1 may not be associated with colorectal carcinogenesis in UC.

The Individual Health Discount Rate in Patients with Ulcerative Colitis

PubMed Central

Waljee, Akbar K.; Morris, Arden M.; Waljee, Jennifer F.; Higgins, Peter D.R.

2015-01-01

Background In cost-effectiveness analysis, discount rates are used in calculating the value of future costs and benefits. However, standard discount rates may not accurately describe the decision-making of patients with Ulcerative Colitis (UC). These patients often choose the long-term risks of immunosuppressive therapy over the short-term risks of colectomy, demonstrating very high discount rates for future health. In this study, we aimed to measure the discount rate in UC patients and identify variables associated with the discount rate. Methods We surveyed patients with UC and patients who were post-colectomy for UC to measure their valuations of UC and colectomy health states. We used Standard Gamble(SG) and Time-Trade-Off(TTO) methods to assess current and future health state valuations, and calculated the discount rate. Results Participants included 150 subjects with UC and 150 subjects who were post-colectomy for UC. Discount rates varied widely (20.6%–100%) with an overall median rate of 55.0%, which was significantly higher than the standard rate of 5%. Older age and male gender and predicted high discount rates (aversion to immediate risk in favor of distant future risk). For each additional decade of age, patients’ expected discount rate increased by 0.77%. Female gender was the only predictor of very low discount rates. Female patients’ discount rates averaged 8.1% less than age-matched males. Conclusions The accepted discount rate of 5% grossly underestimates UC patients’ preference for long-term over short-term risk. This might explain UC patients’ frequent choice of the long-term risks of immunosuppressive medical therapy over the short-term risks of colectomy. PMID:21560195

The Expenditures for Academic Inpatient Care of Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients Are Almost Double Compared with Average Academic Gastroenterology and Hepatology Cases and Not Fully Recovered by Diagnosis-Related Group (DRG) Proceeds.

PubMed

Baumgart, Daniel C; le Claire, Marie

2016-01-01

Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) challenge economies worldwide. Detailed health economic data of DRG based academic inpatient care for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients in Europe is unavailable. IBD was identified through ICD-10 K50 and K51 code groups. We took an actual costing approach, compared expenditures to G-DRG and non-DRG proceeds and performed detailed cost center and type accounting to identify coverage determinants. Of all 3093 hospitalized cases at our department, 164 were CD and 157 UC inpatients in 2012. On average, they were 44.1 (CD 44.9 UC 43.3 all 58) years old, stayed 10.1 (CD 11.8 UC 8.4 vs. all 8) days, carried 5.8 (CD 6.4 UC 5.2 vs. all 6.8) secondary diagnoses, received 7.4 (CD 7.7 UC 7 vs. all 6.2) procedures, had a higher cost weight (CD 2.8 UC 2.4 vs. all 1.6) and required more intense nursing. Their care was more costly (means: total cost IBD 8477€ CD 9051€ UC 7903€ vs. all 5078€). However, expenditures were not fully recovered by DRG proceeds (means: IBD 7413€, CD 8441€, UC 6384€ vs all 4758€). We discovered substantial disease specific mismatches in cost centers and types and identified the medical ward personnel and materials budgets to be most imbalanced. Non-DRG proceeds were almost double (IBD 16.1% vs. all 8.2%), but did not balance deficits at total coverage analysis, that found medications (antimicrobials, biologics and blood products), medical materials (mostly endoscopy items) to contribute most to the deficit. DRGs challenge sophisticated IBD care.

Enterohepatic helicobacter in ulcerative colitis: potential pathogenic entities?

PubMed

Thomson, John M; Hansen, Richard; Berry, Susan H; Hope, Mairi E; Murray, Graeme I; Mukhopadhya, Indrani; McLean, Mairi H; Shen, Zeli; Fox, James G; El-Omar, Emad; Hold, Georgina L

2011-02-23

Changes in bacterial populations termed "dysbiosis" are thought central to ulcerative colitis (UC) pathogenesis. In particular, the possibility that novel Helicobacter organisms play a role in human UC has been debated but not comprehensively investigated. The aim of this study was to develop a molecular approach to investigate the presence of Helicobacter organisms in adults with and without UC. A dual molecular approach to detect Helicobacter was developed. Oligonucleotide probes against the genus Helicobacter were designed and optimised alongside a validation of published H. pylori probes. A comprehensive evaluation of Helicobacter genus and H. pylori PCR primers was also undertaken. The combined approach was then assessed in a range of gastrointestinal samples prior to assessment of a UC cohort. Archival colonic samples were available from 106 individuals for FISH analysis (57 with UC and 49 non-IBD controls). A further 118 individuals were collected prospectively for dual FISH and PCR analysis (86 UC and 32 non-IBD controls). An additional 27 non-IBD controls were available for PCR analysis. All Helicobacter PCR-positive samples were sequenced. The association between Helicobacter and each study group was statistically analysed using the Pearson Chi Squared 2 tailed test. Helicobacter genus PCR positivity was significantly higher in UC than controls (32 of 77 versus 11 of 59, p = 0.004). Sequence analysis indicated enterohepatic Helicobacter species prevalence was significantly higher in the UC group compared to the control group (30 of 77 versus 2 of 59, p<0.0001). PCR and FISH results were concordant in 74 (67.9%) of subjects. The majority of discordant results were attributable to a higher positivity rate with FISH than PCR. Helicobacter organisms warrant consideration as potential pathogenic entities in UC. Isolation of these organisms from colonic tissue is needed to enable interrogation of pathogenicity against established criteria.

CD14+CD33+ myeloid cell-CCL11-eosinophil signature in ulcerative colitis.

PubMed

Lampinen, Maria; Waddell, Amanda; Ahrens, Richard; Carlson, Marie; Hogan, Simon P

2013-11-01

This study tested the hypothesis that eotaxins (CCL11, CCL24, and CCL26) and IL-5 contribute to eosinophil recruitment to the intestine in UC and that intestinal macrophages are important producers of CCL11 in this disease. Peripheral blood and rectal biopsy samples were obtained from patients with active (n=18) and quiescent UC (n=9), and control patients (n=7). Eosinophil and macrophage levels and activation were analyzed by flow cytometry. Rectal mRNA levels of CCL11, CCL24, CCL26, and IL-5 were determined by qRT-PCR. The cellular source of CCL11 was visualized by immunofluorescence analyses. Eosinophil numbers were elevated in the blood and rectum of active and quiescent UC patients compared with controls. Levels of activated eosinophils (CD66b(high)) correlated with disease severity. Rectal CCL11, CCL24, and CCL26 mRNA levels were increased in active UC, whereas only CCL11 was elevated in quiescent UC. Levels of CCL11, but not CCL24 and CCL26, positively correlated with eosinophil numbers. Numbers of CD14(+)CD33(+) cells correlated with CCL11 and eosinophil levels. Immunofluorescence analyses revealed the presence of CD14(+)CCL11(+) mononuclear cells in colonic biopsies in UC. These results support the hypothesis that CCL11 contributes to eosinophil recruitment in UC and that intestinal myeloid cells are a source of CCL11. Interestingly, rectal levels of CCL24, CCL26, and IL-5 only increase during active UC, coinciding with further elevation of eosinophil numbers and with the activation of rectal eosinophils. In conclusion, there is a link among CD14(+)CD33(+) myeloid cells, CCL11, and eosinophils in adult UC.

CD14+CD33+ myeloid cell-CCL11-eosinophil signature in ulcerative colitis

PubMed Central

Lampinen, Maria; Waddell, Amanda; Ahrens, Richard; Carlson, Marie; Hogan, Simon P.

2013-01-01

This study tested the hypothesis that eotaxins (CCL11, CCL24, and CCL26) and IL-5 contribute to eosinophil recruitment to the intestine in UC and that intestinal macrophages are important producers of CCL11 in this disease. Peripheral blood and rectal biopsy samples were obtained from patients with active (n=18) and quiescent UC (n=9), and control patients (n=7). Eosinophil and macrophage levels and activation were analyzed by flow cytometry. Rectal mRNA levels of CCL11, CCL24, CCL26, and IL-5 were determined by qRT-PCR. The cellular source of CCL11 was visualized by immunofluorescence analyses. Eosinophil numbers were elevated in the blood and rectum of active and quiescent UC patients compared with controls. Levels of activated eosinophils (CD66bhigh) correlated with disease severity. Rectal CCL11, CCL24, and CCL26 mRNA levels were increased in active UC, whereas only CCL11 was elevated in quiescent UC. Levels of CCL11, but not CCL24 and CCL26, positively correlated with eosinophil numbers. Numbers of CD14+CD33+ cells correlated with CCL11 and eosinophil levels. Immunofluorescence analyses revealed the presence of CD14+CCL11+ mononuclear cells in colonic biopsies in UC. These results support the hypothesis that CCL11 contributes to eosinophil recruitment in UC and that intestinal myeloid cells are a source of CCL11. Interestingly, rectal levels of CCL24, CCL26, and IL-5 only increase during active UC, coinciding with further elevation of eosinophil numbers and with the activation of rectal eosinophils. In conclusion, there is a link among CD14+CD33+ myeloid cells, CCL11, and eosinophils in adult UC. PMID:23904440

Fabrication and modeling of electrochemical double-layer capacitors using carbon nano-onion electrode structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Parigi, Fabio

Electrochemical capacitors or ultracapacitors (UCs) that are commercially available today overcome battery limitations in terms of charging time (from tens of minutes to seconds) and limited lifetime (from a few thousand cycles up to more than one million) but still lack specific energy and energy density (2-5% of a lithium ion battery). The latest innovations in carbon nanomaterials, such as carbon nanotubes as an active electrode material for UCs, can provide up to five times as much energy and deliver up to seven times more power than today's activated carbon electrodes. Further improvements in UC power density have been achieved by using state-of-the-art carbon nano-onions (CNOs) for ultracapacitor electrodes. CNO UCs could exhibit up to five times the power density of single-wall CNT UCs and could substantially contribute to reducing the size of an energy storage system as well as the volume and weight, thus improving device performance. This dissertation describes the fabrication of CNO electrodes as part of an UC device, the measurement and analysis of the new electrode's performance as an energy storage component, and development of a new circuit model that accurately describes the CNO UC electrical behavior. The novel model is based on the impedance spectra of CNO UCs and cyclic voltammetry measurements. Further, the model was validated using experimental data and simulation. My original contributions are the fabrication process for reliable and repeatable electrode fabrication and the modeling of a carbon nano-onion ultracapacitor. The carbon nano-onion ultracapacitor model, composed of a resistor, an inductor, a capacitor (RLC), and a constant phase element (CPE), was developed along with a parameter extraction procedure for the benefit of other users. The new model developed, proved to be more accurate than previously reported UC models.

Differential effects of α4β7 and GPR15 on homing of effector and regulatory T cells from patients with UC to the inflamed gut in vivo

PubMed Central

Fischer, Anika; Zundler, Sebastian; Atreya, Raja; Rath, Timo; Voskens, Caroline; Hirschmann, Simon; López-Posadas, Rocío; Watson, Alastair; Becker, Christoph; Schuler, Gerold; Neufert, Clemens; Atreya, Imke; Neurath, Markus F

2016-01-01

Objective Gut homing of lymphocytes via adhesion molecules has recently emerged as new target for therapy in IBDs. We aimed to analyse the in vivo homing of effector (Teff) and regulatory (Treg) T cells to the inflamed gut via α4β7 and G protein receptor GPR15. Design We assessed the expression of homing receptors on T cells in peripheral blood and inflamed mucosa. We studied the migration pattern and homing of Teff and Treg cells to the inflamed gut using intravital confocal microscopy and FACS in a humanised mouse model in dextran sodium sulfate-treated NSG (NOD.Cg-Prkdcscid-Il2rgtm1Wjl/SzJ) mice. Results Expression of GPR15 and α4β7 was significantly increased on Treg rather than Teff cells in peripheral blood of patients with UC as compared with Crohn’s disease and controls. In vivo analysis in a humanised mouse model showed augmented gut homing of UC Treg cells as compared with controls. Moreover, suppression of UC (but not control) Teff and Treg cell homing was noted upon treatment with the α4β7 antibody vedolizumab. In contrast, siRNA blockade of GPR15 had only effects on homing of Teff cells but did not affect Treg homing in UC. Clinical vedolizumab treatment was associated with marked expansion of UC Treg cells in peripheral blood. Conclusions α4β7 rather than GPR15 is crucial for increased colonic homing of UC Treg cells in vivo, while both receptors control UC Teff cell homing. Vedolizumab treatment impairs homing of UC Treg cells leading to their accumulation in peripheral blood with subsequent suppression of systemic Teff cell expansion. PMID:26209553

Telocytes are reduced during fibrotic remodelling of the colonic wall in ulcerative colitis.

PubMed

Manetti, Mirko; Rosa, Irene; Messerini, Luca; Ibba-Manneschi, Lidia

2015-01-01

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is characterized by chronic relapsing intestinal inflammation finally leading to extensive tissue fibrosis and resulting in a stiff colon unable to carry out peristalsis or to resorb fluids. Telocytes, a peculiar type of stromal cells, have been recently identified in the human gastrointestinal tract. Several roles have been proposed for telocytes, including mechanical support, intercellular signalling and modulation of intestinal motility. The aim of the present work was to investigate the presence and distribution of telocytes in colonic specimens from UC patients compared with controls. Archival paraffin-embedded samples of the left colon from UC patients who underwent elective bowel resection and controls were collected. Tissue sections were stained with Masson's trichrome to detect fibrosis. Telocytes were identified by CD34 immunohistochemistry. In early fibrotic UC cases, fibrosis affected the muscularis mucosae and submucosa, while the muscularis propria was spared. In advanced fibrotic UC cases, fibrosis extended to affect the muscle layers and the myenteric plexus. Few telocytes were found in the muscularis mucosae and submucosa of both early and advanced fibrotic UC colonic wall. In the muscle layers and myenteric plexus of early fibrotic UC, telocytes were preserved in their distribution. In the muscularis propria of advanced fibrotic UC, the network of telocytes was reduced or even completely absent around smooth muscle bundles and myenteric plexus ganglia, paralleling the loss of the network of interstitial cells of Cajal. In UC, a loss of telocytes accompanies the fibrotic remodelling of the colonic wall and might contribute to colonic dysmotility. © 2014 The Authors. Journal of Cellular and Molecular Medicine published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd and Foundation for Cellular and Molecular Medicine.

LncRNA-uc002mbe.2 Interacting with hnRNPA2B1 Mediates AKT Deactivation and p21 Up-Regulation Induced by Trichostatin in Liver Cancer Cells.

PubMed

Chen, Ting; Gu, Chengxin; Xue, Cailin; Yang, Tao; Zhong, Yun; Liu, Shiming; Nie, Yuqiang; Yang, Hui

2017-01-01

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been implicated in liver carcinogenesis. We previously showed that the induction of lncRNA-uc002mbe.2 is positively associated with the apoptotic effect of trichostatin A (TSA) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. The current study further analyzed the role of uc002mbe.2 in TSA-induced liver cancer cell death. The level of uc002mbe.2 was markedly increased by TSA in the cytoplasm of HCC cells. Knockdown of uc002mbe.2 prohibited TSA-induced G2/M cell cycle arrest, p21 induction, and apoptosis of Huh7 cells and reversed the TSA-mediated decrease in p-AKT. RNA pull-down and RNA-binding protein immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays revealed that TSA induced an interaction between uc002mbe.2 and heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A2B1 (hnRNPA2B1) in Huh7 cells. This interaction mediated AKT deactivation and p21 induction in liver cancer cells. In an athymic xenograft mouse model, knockdown of uc002mbe.2 significantly prohibited the TSA-mediated reduction in tumor size and weight. In addition, the ability of TSA to reduce hnRNPA2B1 and p-AKT levels and induce p21 in the xenograft tumors was prevented by uc002mbe.2 knockdown. Therefore, the interaction of uc002mbe.2 and hnRNPA2B1 in mediating AKT deactivation and p21 induction is involved in the cytostatic effect of trichostatin in liver cancer cells.

Psychological distress during pregnancy in Miyagi after the Great East Japan Earthquake: The Japan Environment and Children's Study.

PubMed

Watanabe, Zen; Iwama, Noriyuki; Nishigori, Hidekazu; Nishigori, Toshie; Mizuno, Satoshi; Sakurai, Kasumi; Ishikuro, Mami; Obara, Taku; Tatsuta, Nozomi; Nishijima, Ichiko; Fujiwara, Ikuma; Nakai, Kunihiko; Arima, Takahiro; Takeda, Takashi; Sugawara, Junichi; Kuriyama, Shinichi; Metoki, Hirohito; Yaegashi, Nobuo

2016-01-15

To examine psychological distress among pregnant women in Miyagi prefecture which was directly affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami and compare other areas of Japan that were less damaged. This study was conducted in conjunction with the Japan Environment and Children's Study (JECS). We examined 10,129 Japanese women using the primary fixed data of the JECS. The Kessler 6-item psychological distress scale (K6) was administered to 7473 eligible women including 998 in Miyagi unit center ('Miyagi UC') and 6475 in the other unit centers ('13UCs'). We compared the prevalence and the risk of distress (K6 ≥ 13) during pregnancy in 'Miyagi UC' and '13UCs'. More women in 'Miyagi UC' (4.9%) suffered psychological distress, compared with '13UCs' (3.1%) (p<0.001). A significantly higher prevalence of women in 'Miyagi UC' (55.5%) had experienced negative life events, whereas '13UCs' showed 42.7% (p<0.0001). In multivariable logistic analyses adjusted for baseline characteristics, there was a significant regional difference of psychological distress (adjusted odds ratio; aOR in Miyagi UC=1.488; 95%CI, 1.059-2.090). After further adjusting for negative life events, the association was diminished (aOR=1.338; 95%CI, 0.949-1.884). The JECS had no data before the earthquake and the extent of damage was not investigated. Possible regional representativeness is also a limitation. After the Great East Japan Earthquake, the prevalence of pregnant women with psychological distress (K6 ≥ 13) were high in Miyagi prefecture. Especially in the coastal area directly affected by tsunami, it is high with or without negative life events experienced. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Text Messaging to Improve Disease Management in Patients With Painful Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy.

PubMed

Bauer, Victoria; Goodman, Nancy; Lapin, Brittany; Cooley, Camille; Wang, Ed; Craig, Terri L; Glosner, Scott E; Juhn, Mark S; Cappelleri, Joseph C; Sadosky, Alesia B; Masi, Christopher

2018-06-01

Purpose The purpose of the study was to determine the impact of educational text messages on diabetes self-management activities and outcomes in patients with painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy (pDPN). Methods Patients with pDPN identified from a large integrated health system who agreed to participate were randomized to 6 months of usual care (UC) or UC plus twice-daily diabetes self-management text messages (UC+TxtM). Outcomes included the Pain Numerical Rating Scale, Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities (SDSCA), questions on diabetes health beliefs, and glycated hemoglobin (A1C). Changes from baseline were evaluated at 6 months and compared between groups. Results Demographic characteristics were balanced between groups (N = 62; 53% female, mean age = 63 years, 94% type 2 diabetes), as were baseline measures. After 6 months, pain decreased with UC+TxtM from 6.3 to 5.5 and with UC from 6.5 to 6.0, with no difference between groups. UC+TxtM but not UC was associated with significant improvements from baseline on all SDSCA subscales. On diabetes health beliefs, UC+TxtM patients reported significantly increased benefits and reduced barriers and susceptibility relative to UC at 6 months. A1C declined in both groups, but neither change was significant relative to baseline. Conclusions Patients with pDPN who receive twice-daily text messages regarding diabetes management reported reduced pain relative to baseline, although this change was not significant compared with usual care. In addition, text messaging was associated with increased self-management activities and improved diabetes health beliefs and total self-care. These results warrant further investigation.

Long-Term Benefit of Mesalamine Granules for Patients Who Achieved Corticosteroid-Induced Ulcerative Colitis Remission.

PubMed

Lichtenstein, Gary R; Gordon, Glenn L; Zakko, Salam; Murthy, Uma; Sedghi, Shahriar; Pruitt, Ron; Barrett, Andrew C; Bortey, Enoch; Paterson, Craig; Forbes, William P

2016-01-01

Patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) who achieve remission with corticosteroids often relapse after tapering or discontinuation; alternative treatments limiting steroid exposure and UC relapse would be beneficial. It remains uncertain whether patients with corticosteroid-induced remission experience benefit with mesalamine granules (MG), a locally acting aminosalicylate extended-release capsule formulation for maintenance of UC remission in adults. Efficacy and safety of MG 1.5 g once daily was evaluated in patients with UC in corticosteroid-induced remission. Data from patients with previous corticosteroid use to achieve baseline UC remission were analyzed from two 6-month randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials and a 24-month open-label extension (OLE). Six-month relapse-free rates were assessed using the revised Sutherland Disease Activity Index. UC-related adverse events (AEs) were recorded during the 30 months. Included were 158 steroid-treated patients in UC remission (MG, n = 105; placebo, n = 53) and 74/105 MG-treated patients who continued MG in the OLE. A significantly larger percentage of patients remained relapse-free at 6 months with MG (77.1 %) versus placebo (54.7 %; P = 0.006), with a 55 % reduction in relapse risk (hazard ratio [HR] 0.45; 95 % CI 0.25-0.79). There was a similar (49.2 %) reduction in risk of UC-related AEs at 6 months (HR 0.51; 95 % CI 0.31-0.84; P = 0.009) that was sustained during the OLE. MG 1.5 g once daily administered for maintenance of corticosteroid-induced remission was associated with low risk of relapse and UC-related AEs. CLINICALTRIALS.GOV: NCT00744016, NCT00767728, and NCT00326209.

Comparison of clinicopathologic characteristics of urothelial carcinoma between patients after renal transplantation and on dialysis.

PubMed

Zhang, Bo; Shen, Cheng; Han, Wen-ke; Yu, Wei

2014-09-15

Urothelial carcinoma (UC) is a common complication after renal replacement therapy (RRT) among Chinese end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients. It is unclear whether there are any differences in the clinicopathologic characteristics of UC between renal transplantation (RT) and dialysis patients; such differences could impact RRT modality selection. We retrospectively reviewed clinicopathologic data for 27 RT patients and 40 dialysis patients who were diagnosed with UC in our center to explore differences in the clinicopathologic characteristics of UC and prognoses between the two groups. The median follow-up period was 92 months (2-137) for the RT group and 71 months (18-155) for the dialysis group. The demographic and baseline data showed no significant differences between the two groups. Upper urinary tract UC (UUC) occurred more frequently in the RT group (22 UUCs in 39 UCs), whereas bladder UC (BUC) predominated in the dialysis group (33 BUCs in 49 UCs) (P=0.025). The pathologic grading in the RT group was significantly higher than that in the dialysis group (P=0.046 for WHO1973 grading, P=0.026 for WHO2004 grading), whereas the difference in tumor stage was not significant (P=0.089). The RT group manifested a higher recurrence rate than the dialysis group (P=0.024). However, the overall and cancer-specific survival rates between the two groups were not significantly different (P=0.239 and P=0.818, respectively). Certain traits of UC, including tumor site, pathologic grading, and recurrence-free survival, were notably different between RT and dialysis patients, but the overall and cancer-specific survival rates were similar.

Production method for making rare earth compounds

DOEpatents

McCallum, R.W.; Ellis, T.W.; Dennis, K.W.; Hofer, R.J.; Branagan, D.J.

1997-11-25

A method of making a rare earth compound, such as a earth-transition metal permanent magnet compound, without the need for producing rare earth metal as a process step, comprises carbothermically reacting a rare earth oxide to form a rare earth carbide and heating the rare earth carbide, a compound-forming reactant (e.g., a transition metal and optional boron), and a carbide-forming element (e.g., a refractory metal) that forms a carbide that is more thermodynamically favorable than the rare earth carbide whereby the rare earth compound (e.g., Nd{sub 2}Fe{sub 14}B or LaNi{sub 5}) and a carbide of the carbide-forming element are formed.

Production method for making rare earth compounds

DOEpatents

McCallum, R. William; Ellis, Timothy W.; Dennis, Kevin W.; Hofer, Robert J.; Branagan, Daniel J.

1997-11-25

A method of making a rare earth compound, such as a earth-transition metal permanent magnet compound, without the need for producing rare earth metal as a process step, comprises carbothermically reacting a rare earth oxide to form a rare earth carbide and heating the rare earth carbide, a compound-forming reactant (e.g. a transition metal and optional boron), and a carbide-forming element (e.g. a refractory metal) that forms a carbide that is more thermodynamically favorable than the rare earth carbide whereby the rare earth compound (e.g. Nd.sub.2 Fe.sub.14 B or LaNi.sub.5) and a carbide of the carbide-forming element are formed.

Histological and immunological features of appendix in patients with ulcerative colitis.

PubMed

Jo, Yukihiko; Matsumoto, Takayuki; Yada, Shinichiro; Nakamura, Shotaro; Yao, Takashi; Hotokezaka, Masayuki; Mibu, Ryuichi; Iida, Mitsuo

2003-01-01

Patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) have a less frequent prior history of appendectomy than the general population. The aim of the present investigation was to elucidate histological and immunological characteristics of the appendix in UC and to assess the effect of appendectomy on the disease. Nine subjects with mildly active UC were treated by surgical appendectomy. In four subjects, the histological findings of the appendix were compatible with ulcerative appendicitis. CD3+CD4+CD25+, CD3+CD4+CD45RO+, and CD3+CD8+CD45RO+ appendiceal mononuclear cells were significantly higher in UC than in acute appendicitis and in normal appendix. There was a trend towards higher mRNA transcripts of IFN-gamma in the appendix of UC than those in other two groups. Clinical activity index decreased significantly four weeks after the appendectomy, although the effect was transient. The appendix is a site of involvement in UC, where mononuclear cells are presumed to be at a state of basal activation.

Ulcerative colitis with acute pleurisy

PubMed Central

Lu, Shuming; Wang, Lihua; Zhang, Weisheng; Zhang, Zhuqing; Liu, Lina; Wang, Yingde; Meng, Hua

2017-01-01

Abstract Rationale: Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), including ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease, are associated with a large number of extraintestinal manifestations. Pulmonary manifestations are infrequently seen in patients with IBD. Moreover, serositis including pleural and pericardial manifestations in UC is rare. Patient concerns: We report a case of UC with acute pleurisy in a 43-year-old man; review literature; and discuss the diagnosis, differential diagnosis, and treatment. Diagnoses: Active duodenal ulcer was found using gastroscopy. Multiple ulcers in segmented pattern were noticed in the left hemi-colon using colonoscopy. An UC in active stage was confirmed subsequently by histology. Intervention: The patient was treated with bifidobacterium tetravaccine tablets, oral mesalazine and mesalazine enemas. The omeprazole and mucosal protective agents were given to treat the duodenal ulcer. Outcomes: As follow-up, the therapy including oral mesalazine and infliximab regularly was continued and the patient condition was stabilized. Main lesson: Pulmonary involvement should be considered in patients who develop pleurisy in UC. Infliximab is considered the better available treatment for patients presenting with pleurisy in UC. PMID:28746225

Enhanced Power Conversion Efficiency of Perovskite Solar Cells with an Up-Conversion Material of Er3+-Yb3+-Li+ Tri-doped TiO2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Zhenlong; Qin, Jianqiang; Shi, Wenjia; Liu, Yanyan; Zhang, Yan; Liu, Yuefeng; Gao, Huiping; Mao, Yanli

2018-05-01

In this paper, Er3+-Yb3+-Li+ tri-doped TiO2 (UC-TiO2) was prepared by an addition of Li+ to Er3+-Yb3+ co-doped TiO2. The UC-TiO2 presented an enhanced up-conversion emission compared with Er3+-Yb3+ co-doped TiO2. The UC-TiO2 was applied to the perovskite solar cells. The power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the solar cells without UC-TiO2 was 14.0%, while the PCE of the solar cells with UC-TiO2 was increased to 16.5%, which presented an increase of 19%. The results suggested that UC-TiO2 is an effective up-conversion material. And this study provided a route to expand the spectral absorption of perovskite solar cells from visible light to near-infrared using up-conversion materials.

Enhanced Power Conversion Efficiency of Perovskite Solar Cells with an Up-Conversion Material of Er3+-Yb3+-Li+ Tri-doped TiO2.

PubMed

Zhang, Zhenlong; Qin, Jianqiang; Shi, Wenjia; Liu, Yanyan; Zhang, Yan; Liu, Yuefeng; Gao, Huiping; Mao, Yanli

2018-05-11

In this paper, Er 3+ -Yb 3+ -Li + tri-doped TiO 2 (UC-TiO 2 ) was prepared by an addition of Li + to Er 3+ -Yb 3+ co-doped TiO 2 . The UC-TiO 2 presented an enhanced up-conversion emission compared with Er 3+ -Yb 3+ co-doped TiO 2 . The UC-TiO 2 was applied to the perovskite solar cells. The power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the solar cells without UC-TiO 2 was 14.0%, while the PCE of the solar cells with UC-TiO 2 was increased to 16.5%, which presented an increase of 19%. The results suggested that UC-TiO 2 is an effective up-conversion material. And this study provided a route to expand the spectral absorption of perovskite solar cells from visible light to near-infrared using up-conversion materials.

Characteristics of uranium carbonitride microparticles synthesized using different reaction conditions

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

Silva, Chinthaka M; Lindemer, Terrence; Voit, Stewart L

2014-11-01

Three sets of different experimental conditions by changing the cover gases during the sample preparation were tested to synthesize uranium carbonitride (UC1-xNx) microparticles. In the first two sets of experiments using (N2 to N2-4%H2 to Ar) and (Ar to N2 to Ar) environments, single phase UC1-xNx was synthesized. When reducing environments (Ar-4%H2 to N2-4%H2 to Ar-4%H2) were utilized, theoretical densities up to 97% of single phase UC1-xNx kernels were obtained. Physical and chemical characteristics such as density, phase purity, and chemical compositions of the synthesized UC1-xNx materials for the diferent experimental conditions used are provided. In-depth analysis of the microstruturesmore » of UC1-xNx has been carried out and is discussed with the objective of large batch fabrication of high density UC1-xNx kernels.« less

Educating Students on the Need to Protect Authentic Science in Public Policy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grifo, F.; McCarthy, M.; Langlais, C.

2008-12-01

Scientists have an important responsibility to be sure their students are aware of the ways in which their research results can be politicized and misused. Political interference in science has penetrated deeply into the culture and practices of federal agencies. The persistent and energetic engagement of scientists is critical to ensuring the government meets its obligation to serve the public interest. To foster thoughtful discussions about the proper role of science in federal policy making, the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) has created a Scientific Integrity Curriculum Guide to help graduate, undergraduate and advanced high school instructors teach this complex subject. The guide is a fully developed lesson plan that teachers in both scientific and non-scientific disciplines can tailor to suit their needs. It provides lecture slides, worksheets, homework assignments, essay suggestions, and links to other resources. Educating the next generation of scientists is essential because significant and long-lasting reforms require the support of a well- informed scientific community.

Reactive Fusion Welding for Ultra-High Temperature Ceramic Composite Joining

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-03-16

Titanium diboride TiC-Titanium carbide C-Carbon SiC - Silicon carbide B4C-Boron carbide 67 W-Tungsten WC-Tungsten carbide ZrB2-20ZrC-ZrB2...ceramics with a nominal carbide content of 20 vol% were prepared. Starting powders were mechanically mixed by ball milling ZrB2 (H.C. Starck; Grade B...0.50 wt%, or ~1.5 vol%. Milling was carried out in acetone for 2 hours using tungsten carbide media. After milling, the powder slurry was dried

Hydrostatic pressure enhances mitomycin C induced apoptosis in urothelial carcinoma cells.

PubMed

Chen, Shao-Kuan; Chung, Chih-Ang; Cheng, Yu-Che; Huang, Chi-Jung; Ruaan, Ruoh-Chyu; Chen, Wen-Yih; Li, Chuan; Tsao, Chia-Wen; Hu, Wei-Wen; Chien, Chih-Cheng

2014-01-01

Urothelial carcinoma (UC) of the bladder is the second most common cancer of the genitourinary system. Clinical UC treatment usually involves transurethral resection of the bladder tumor followed by adjuvant intravesical immunotherapy or chemotherapy to prevent recurrence. Intravesical chemotherapy induces fewer side effects than immunotherapy but is less effective at preventing tumor recurrence. Improvement to intravesical chemotherapy is, therefore, needed. Cellular effects of mitomycin C (MMC) and hydrostatic pressure on UC BFTC905 cells were assessed. The viability of the UC cells was determined using cellular proliferation assay. Changes in apoptotic function were evaluated by caspase 3/7 activities, expression of FasL, and loss of mitochondrial membrane potential. Reduced cell viability was associated with increasing hydrostatic pressure. Caspase 3/7 activities were increased following treatment of the UC cells with MMC or hydrostatic pressure. In combination with 10 kPa hydrostatic pressure, MMC treatment induced increasing FasL expression. The mitochondria of UC cells displayed increasingly impaired membrane potentials following a combined treatment with 10 μg/ml MMC and 10 kPa hydrostatic pressure. Both MMC and hydrostatic pressure can induce apoptosis in UC cells through an extrinsic pathway. Hydrostatic pressure specifically increases MMC-induced apoptosis and might minimize the side effects of the chemotherapy by reducing the concentration of the chemical agent. This study provides a new and alternative approach for treatment of patients with UC following transurethral resection of the bladder tumor. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Update on the management of ulcerative colitis.

PubMed

Taba Taba Vakili, Sahar; Taher, Mohammad; Ebrahimi Daryani, Nasser

2012-01-01

The present treatment goals for inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) especially ulcerative colitis (UC) include rapid induction of clinical remission, steroid-free maintenance of clinical remission, mucosal healing and improvement of quality of life in UC patients. Immunomodulators have been reserved for steroid- dependent or steroid- refractory UC patients. Among these agents, azathioprine/6-mercaptopurine should be used for maintenance of remission in quiescent UC. Calcineurin inhibitors can be prescribed as a short-term rescue therapy in steroid- refractory UC patients, but the long term efficacy of these agents remains unclear. According to retrospective studies, methotraxate is not recommended for inducing and maintaining remission in UC. Novel biological therapies targeting different specific immunological pathways continue to be developed and introduced for a variety of clinical scenarios in IBD. Infliximab is currently used for induction and maintenance therapy in patients who have moderately to severely active UC with an inadequate response to conventional agents such as aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, or immunomodulators. Other anti-TNF agents and biologic therapies are undergoing evaluation in clinical trials for their efficacy in IBD. Most patients who start biologics should continue treatment for the foreseeable future and potential consequences of discontinuation should be discussed with individual patients. Currently, data do not exist to administer biologics as first-line therapy in UC. Emerging data suggest that biologics may have the potential to prevent complications and limit disease progression. If such benefits are proven, biologics may be used in the future to modulate subclinical inflammation and to prevent the development of clinical disease.

Transition Metal-Involved Photon Upconversion.

PubMed

Ye, Shi; Song, En-Hai; Zhang, Qin-Yuan

2016-12-01

Upconversion (UC) luminescence of lanthanide ions (Ln 3+ ) has been extensively investigated for several decades and is a constant research hotspot owing to its fundamental significance and widespread applications. In contrast to the multiple and fixed UC emissions of Ln 3+ , transition metal (TM) ions, e.g., Mn 2+ , usually possess a single broadband emission due to its 3 d 5 electronic configuration. Wavelength-tuneable single UC emission can be achieved in some TM ion-activated systems ascribed to the susceptibility of d electrons to the chemical environment, which is appealing in molecular sensing and lighting. Moreover, the UC emissions of Ln 3+ can be modulated by TM ions (specifically d -block element ions with unfilled d orbitals), which benefits from the specific metastable energy levels of Ln 3+ owing to the well-shielded 4 f electrons and tuneable energy levels of the TM ions. The electric versatility of d 0 ion-containing hosts ( d 0 normally viewed as charged anion groups, such as MoO 6 6- and TiO 4 4- ) may also have a strong influence on the electric dipole transition of Ln 3+ , resulting in multifunctional properties of modulated UC emission and electrical behaviour, such as ferroelectricity and oxide-ion conductivity. This review focuses on recent advances in the room temperature (RT) UC of TM ions, the UC of Ln 3+ tuned by TM or d 0 ions, and the UC of d 0 ion-centred groups, as well as their potential applications in bioimaging, solar cells and multifunctional devices.

Appendectomy, smoking habits and the risk of developing ulcerative colitis: a case control study in private practice setting.

PubMed

de Saussure, Philippe; Clerson, Pierre; Prost, Pierre-Louis; Truong Tan, Nghiep; Bouhnik, Yoram; Gil-Rch

2007-05-01

The strongest environmental factors identified for ulcerative colitis (UC) are cigarette smoking and appendectomy. However, most studies have been performed using case-controls from hospital-based populations. The purpose of this study was to compare the history of previous appendectomy and smoking habits in a group of patients with UC and a control group, followed by gastroenterologists in private practice. We performed a case control study in which 100 physicians recruited UC-patients and age and sex matched controls. Data were collected during a single visit. Based on a standardized questionnaire, UC patients and controls were divided into never, former or current smokers, and into subjects with or without a previous history of appendectomy. One hundred and ninety eight age- and sex-matched pairs of UC patients and controls were included. The prevalence of appendectomy in the UC-patients and control group was 12% and 46%, respectively. The pairwise-matched OR of ulcerative colitis for previous appendectomy was 0.10 (95% CI, 0.05-0.21) (P<0.0001). The OR for former and never smokers versus current smokers was 2.40 (95% CI 1.31-4.38) (P=0.004). In UC-patients, the OR of family history of UC compared with controls was 2.80 (95% CI, 1.01-7.77) (P=0.048). This case-control study confirmed a strong negative correlation between both appendectomy and tobacco smoking, and ulcerative colitis in patients followed-up by gastroenterological practitioners.

Differentiation-dependent rearrangements of actin filaments and microtubules hinder apical endocytosis in urothelial cells.

PubMed

Tratnjek, Larisa; Romih, Rok; Kreft, Mateja Erdani

2017-08-01

During differentiation, superficial urothelial cells (UCs) of the urinary bladder form the apical surface, which is almost entirely covered by urothelial plaques containing densely packed uroplakin particles. These urothelial plaques are the main structural components of the blood-urine permeability barrier in the urinary bladder. We have shown previously that endocytosis from the apical plasma membrane decreases during urothelial cell differentiation. Here, we investigated the role of actin filament and microtubule rearrangements in apical endocytosis of differentiating UCs cells using hyperplastic and normoplastic porcine urothelial models. Partially differentiated normal porcine UCs contained actin filaments in the subapical cytoplasm, while microtubules had a net-like appearance. In highly differentiated UCs, actin filaments mostly disappeared from the subapical cytoplasm and microtubules remained as a thin layer close to the apical plasma membrane. Inhibition of actin filament formation with cytochalasin-D in partially differentiated UCs caused a decrease in apical endocytosis. Depolymerisation of microtubules with nocodazole did not prevent endocytosis of the endocytotic marker WGA into the subapical cytoplasm; however, it abolished WGA transport to endolysosomal compartments in the central cytoplasm. Cytochalasin-D or nocodazole treatment did not significantly change apical endocytosis in highly differentiated UCs. In conclusion, we showed that the physiological differentiation-dependent or chemically induced redistribution and reorganization of actin filaments and microtubules impair apical endocytosis in UCs. Importantly, reduced apical endocytosis due to cytoskeletal rearrangements in highly differentiated UCs, together with the formation of rigid urothelial plaques, reinforces the barrier function of the urothelium.

Up-conversion in rare-earth doped micro-particles applied to new emissive two-dimensional displays

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Milliez, Anne Janet

Up-conversion (UC) in rare-earth co-doped fluorides to convert diode laser light in the near infrared to red, green and blue visible light is applied to make possible high performance emissive displays. The infrared-to-visible UC in the materials we study is a sequential form of non-linear two photon absorption in which a strong absorbing constituent absorbs two low energy photons and transfers this energy to another constituent which emits visible light. Some of the UC emitters' most appealing characteristics for displays are: a wide color gamut with very saturated colors, very high brightness operation without damage to the emitters, long lifetimes and efficiencies comparable to those of existing technologies. Other advantages include simplicity of fabrication, versatility of operating modes, and the potential for greatly reduced display weight and depth. Thanks to recent advances in material science and diode laser technology at the excitation wavelength, UC selected materials can be very efficient visible emitters. However, optimal UC efficiencies strongly depend on chosing proper operating conditions. In this thesis, we studied the conditions required for optimization. We demonstrated that high efficiency UC depends on high pump irradiance, low temperature and low scattering. With this understanding we can predict how to optimally use UC emitters in a wide range of applications. In particular, we showed how our very efficient UC emitters can be applied to make full color displays and very efficient white light sources.

Chk1 Promotes DNA Damage Response Bypass following Oxidative Stress in a Model of Hydrogen Peroxide-Associated Ulcerative Colitis through JNK Inactivation and Chromatin Binding

PubMed Central

Silver, Andrew; Guenther, Thomas; Siedentopf, Sandra; Ross, Jochen; Vo, Diep-Khanh; Roessner, Albert

2017-01-01

Dysregulation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) activation promoted DNA damage response bypass and tumorigenesis in our model of hydrogen peroxide-associated ulcerative colitis (UC) and in patients with quiescent UC (QUC), UC-related dysplasia, and UC-related carcinoma (UC-CRC), thereby adapting to oxidative stress. In the UC model, we have observed features of oncogenic transformation: increased proliferation, undetected DNA damage, and apoptosis resistance. Here, we show that Chk1 was downregulated but activated in the acute and quiescent chronic phases. In both phases, Chk1 was linked to DNA damage response bypass by suppressing JNK activation following oxidative stress, promoting cell cycle progression despite DNA damage. Simultaneously, activated Chk1 was bound to chromatin. This triggered histone acetylation and the binding of histone acetyltransferases and transcription factors to chromatin. Thus, chromatin-immobilized activated Chk1 executed a dual function by suppressing DNA damage response and simultaneously inducing chromatin modulation. This caused undetected DNA damage and increased cellular proliferation through failure to transmit the appropriate DNA damage signal. Findings in vitro were corroborated by chromatin accumulation of activated Chk1, Ac-H3, Ac-H4, and c-Jun in active UC (AUC) in vivo. Targeting chromatin-bound Chk1, GCN5, PCAF, and p300/CBP could be a novel therapeutic strategy to prevent UC-related tumor progression. PMID:28751935

Urinary calculi increase the risk for adverse pregnancy outcomes: a nationwide study.

PubMed

Chung, Shiu-Dong; Chen, Yi-Hua; Keller, Jospeh J; Lin, Ching-Chun; Lin, Herng-Ching

2013-01-01

Using two large-scale nationwide population-based data sets, this study aimed to assess the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes between mothers with and without urinary calculi. Cross-sectional study. Taiwan. This study included 3694 women who had live singleton births and received a diagnosis of urinary calculi (UC) in the year prior to their delivery, as well as 18 470 matched women without UC, who were used as a comparison group. Conditional logistic regression analyses were performed. Low birthweight, preterm birth, small for gestational age, cesarean section, lower Apgar score and pre-eclampsia/eclampsia. Women with UC had a higher prevalence of low-birthweight neonates (7.4 vs. 6.0%, p = 0.003), preterm births (9.5 vs. 7.3%, p < 0.001) and cesarean sections (43.1 vs. 35.4%, p < 0.001) than women without UC. After adjusting for potential confounding factors, women with UC were more likely than women without UC to have low-birthweight neonates (odds ratio 1.21, 95% confidence interval 1.05-1.39), preterm birth (odds ratio 1.28, 95% confidence interval 1.13-1.43) and cesarean sections (odds ratio 1.37, 95% confidence interval 1.28-1.48). There were increased risks for having low-birthweight, preterm infants and for experiencing cesarean section among women with UC in comparison to women without UC. © 2012 The Authors © 2012 Nordic Federation of Societies of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Transition Metal‐Involved Photon Upconversion

PubMed Central

Song, En‐Hai

2016-01-01

Upconversion (UC) luminescence of lanthanide ions (Ln3+) has been extensively investigated for several decades and is a constant research hotspot owing to its fundamental significance and widespread applications. In contrast to the multiple and fixed UC emissions of Ln3+, transition metal (TM) ions, e.g., Mn2+, usually possess a single broadband emission due to its 3d 5 electronic configuration. Wavelength‐tuneable single UC emission can be achieved in some TM ion‐activated systems ascribed to the susceptibility of d electrons to the chemical environment, which is appealing in molecular sensing and lighting. Moreover, the UC emissions of Ln3+ can be modulated by TM ions (specifically d‐block element ions with unfilled d orbitals), which benefits from the specific metastable energy levels of Ln3+ owing to the well‐shielded 4f electrons and tuneable energy levels of the TM ions. The electric versatility of d 0 ion‐containing hosts (d 0 normally viewed as charged anion groups, such as MoO6 6‐ and TiO4 4‐) may also have a strong influence on the electric dipole transition of Ln3+, resulting in multifunctional properties of modulated UC emission and electrical behaviour, such as ferroelectricity and oxide‐ion conductivity. This review focuses on recent advances in the room temperature (RT) UC of TM ions, the UC of Ln3+ tuned by TM or d 0 ions, and the UC of d 0 ion‐centred groups, as well as their potential applications in bioimaging, solar cells and multifunctional devices. PMID:27981015

Transient receptor potential vanilloid type 2 (TRPV2) expression in normal urothelium and in urothelial carcinoma of human bladder: correlation with the pathologic stage.

PubMed

Caprodossi, Sara; Lucciarini, Roberta; Amantini, Consuelo; Nabissi, Massimo; Canesin, Giacomo; Ballarini, Patrizia; Di Spilimbergo, Adriana; Cardarelli, Marco Andrea; Servi, Lucilla; Mammana, Gabriele; Santoni, Giorgio

2008-09-01

To evaluate the expression of transient receptor potential vanilloid type 2 (TRPV2) in normal human bladder and urothelial carcinoma (UC) tissues. Bladder specimens were obtained by transurethral resection or radical cystectomy. TRPV2 mRNA expression in normal human urothelial cells (NHUCs), UC cell lines, and formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded normal (n=6) and cancer bladder tissues (n=58) was evaluated by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and quantitative real-time PCR (RT-PCR). TRPV2 protein expression was assessed by cytofluorimetric and confocal microscopy analyses in NHUCs and UC cells and by Western blotting and immunohistochemistry in normal and UC tissues. Enhanced TRPV2 mRNA and protein expression was found in high-grade and -stage UC specimens and UC cell lines. Both the full-length TRPV2 (hTRPV2) and a short splice-variant (s-TRPV2) were detected in NHUC and normal bladder specimens, whereas a progressive decline of s-TRPV2 in pTa, pT1, and pT2 stages was observed, up to a complete loss in pT3 and pT4 UC specimens. Normal human urothelial cells and bladder tissue specimens express TRPV2 at both the mRNA and protein levels. A progressive loss of s-TRPV2 accompanied by a marked increase of hTRPV2 expression was found in high-grade and -stage UC tissues.

Assessment of heterogeneity between European Populations: a Baltic and Danish replication case-control study of SNPs from a recent European ulcerative colitis genome wide association study

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Differences in the genetic architecture of inflammatory bowel disease between different European countries and ethnicities have previously been reported. In the present study, we wanted to assess the role of 11 newly identified UC risk variants, derived from a recent European UC genome wide association study (GWAS) (Franke et al., 2010), for 1) association with UC in the Nordic countries, 2) for population heterogeneity between the Nordic countries and the rest of Europe, and, 3) eventually, to drive some of the previous findings towards overall genome-wide significance. Methods Eleven SNPs were replicated in a Danish sample consisting of 560 UC patients and 796 controls and nine missing SNPs of the German GWAS study were successfully genotyped in the Baltic sample comprising 441 UC cases and 1156 controls. The independent replication data was then jointly analysed with the original data and systematic comparisons of the findings between ethnicities were made. Pearson's χ2, Breslow-Day (BD) and Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel (CMH) tests were used for association analyses and heterogeneity testing. Results The rs5771069 (IL17REL) SNP was not associated with UC in the Danish panel. The rs5771069 (IL17REL) SNP was significantly associated with UC in the combined Baltic, Danish and Norwegian UC study sample driven by the Norwegian panel (OR = 0.89, 95% CI: 0.79-0.98, P = 0.02). No association was found between rs7809799 (SMURF1/KPNA7) and UC (OR = 1.20, 95% CI: 0.95-1.52, P = 0.10) or between UC and all other remaining SNPs. We had 94% chance of detecting an association for rs7809799 (SMURF1/KPNA7) in the combined replication sample, whereas the power were 55% or lower for the remaining SNPs. Statistically significant PBD was found for OR heterogeneity between the combined Baltic, Danish, and Norwegian panel versus the combined German, British, Belgian, and Greek panel (rs7520292 (P = 0.001), rs12518307 (P = 0.007), and rs2395609 (TCP11) (P = 0.01), respectively). No SNP reached genome-wide significance in the combined analyses of all the panels. Conclusions This replication study supports an important role for the studied rs5771069 (IL17REL) SNP, but not for rs7809799 (SMURF1/KPNA7), in UC etiology in the Danish, Baltic, and Norwegian populations. Significant genetic heterogeneity was suggested for rs7520292, rs12518307, and rs2395609 (TCP11) in UC etiology between the Nordic and the other European populations. PMID:21995314

Assessment of heterogeneity between European Populations: a Baltic and Danish replication case-control study of SNPs from a recent European ulcerative colitis genome wide association study.

PubMed

Andersen, Vibeke; Ernst, Anja; Sventoraityte, Jurgita; Kupcinskas, Limas; Jacobsen, Bent A; Krarup, Henrik B; Vogel, Ulla; Jonaitis, Laimas; Denapiene, Goda; Kiudelis, Gediminas; Balschun, Tobias; Franke, Andre

2011-10-13

Differences in the genetic architecture of inflammatory bowel disease between different European countries and ethnicities have previously been reported. In the present study, we wanted to assess the role of 11 newly identified UC risk variants, derived from a recent European UC genome wide association study (GWAS) (Franke et al., 2010), for 1) association with UC in the Nordic countries, 2) for population heterogeneity between the Nordic countries and the rest of Europe, and, 3) eventually, to drive some of the previous findings towards overall genome-wide significance. Eleven SNPs were replicated in a Danish sample consisting of 560 UC patients and 796 controls and nine missing SNPs of the German GWAS study were successfully genotyped in the Baltic sample comprising 441 UC cases and 1156 controls. The independent replication data was then jointly analysed with the original data and systematic comparisons of the findings between ethnicities were made. Pearson's χ2, Breslow-Day (BD) and Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel (CMH) tests were used for association analyses and heterogeneity testing. The rs5771069 (IL17REL) SNP was not associated with UC in the Danish panel. The rs5771069 (IL17REL) SNP was significantly associated with UC in the combined Baltic, Danish and Norwegian UC study sample driven by the Norwegian panel (OR = 0.89, 95% CI: 0.79-0.98, P = 0.02). No association was found between rs7809799 (SMURF1/KPNA7) and UC (OR = 1.20, 95% CI: 0.95-1.52, P = 0.10) or between UC and all other remaining SNPs. We had 94% chance of detecting an association for rs7809799 (SMURF1/KPNA7) in the combined replication sample, whereas the power were 55% or lower for the remaining SNPs.Statistically significant PBD was found for OR heterogeneity between the combined Baltic, Danish, and Norwegian panel versus the combined German, British, Belgian, and Greek panel (rs7520292 (P = 0.001), rs12518307 (P = 0.007), and rs2395609 (TCP11) (P = 0.01), respectively).No SNP reached genome-wide significance in the combined analyses of all the panels. This replication study supports an important role for the studied rs5771069 (IL17REL) SNP, but not for rs7809799 (SMURF1/KPNA7), in UC etiology in the Danish, Baltic, and Norwegian populations. Significant genetic heterogeneity was suggested for rs7520292, rs12518307, and rs2395609 (TCP11) in UC etiology between the Nordic and the other European populations.

Methods of repairing a substrate

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Riedell, James A. (Inventor); Easler, Timothy E. (Inventor)

2011-01-01

A precursor of a ceramic adhesive suitable for use in a vacuum, thermal, and microgravity environment. The precursor of the ceramic adhesive includes a silicon-based, preceramic polymer and at least one ceramic powder selected from the group consisting of aluminum oxide, aluminum nitride, boron carbide, boron oxide, boron nitride, hafnium boride, hafnium carbide, hafnium oxide, lithium aluminate, molybdenum silicide, niobium carbide, niobium nitride, silicon boride, silicon carbide, silicon oxide, silicon nitride, tin oxide, tantalum boride, tantalum carbide, tantalum oxide, tantalum nitride, titanium boride, titanium carbide, titanium oxide, titanium nitride, yttrium oxide, zirconium boride, zirconium carbide, zirconium oxide, and zirconium silicate. Methods of forming the ceramic adhesive and of repairing a substrate in a vacuum and microgravity environment are also disclosed, as is a substrate repaired with the ceramic adhesive.

40 CFR 415.30 - Applicability; description of the calcium carbide production subcategory.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... calcium carbide production subcategory. 415.30 Section 415.30 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL... SOURCE CATEGORY Calcium Carbide Production Subcategory § 415.30 Applicability; description of the calcium... the production of calcium carbide in uncovered furnaces. ...

40 CFR 415.30 - Applicability; description of the calcium carbide production subcategory.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... calcium carbide production subcategory. 415.30 Section 415.30 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL... SOURCE CATEGORY Calcium Carbide Production Subcategory § 415.30 Applicability; description of the calcium... the production of calcium carbide in uncovered furnaces. ...

40 CFR 415.30 - Applicability; description of the calcium carbide production subcategory.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... calcium carbide production subcategory. 415.30 Section 415.30 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL... SOURCE CATEGORY Calcium Carbide Production Subcategory § 415.30 Applicability; description of the calcium... the production of calcium carbide in uncovered furnaces. ...

40 CFR 415.30 - Applicability; description of the calcium carbide production subcategory.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... calcium carbide production subcategory. 415.30 Section 415.30 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL... SOURCE CATEGORY Calcium Carbide Production Subcategory § 415.30 Applicability; description of the calcium... the production of calcium carbide in uncovered furnaces. ...

40 CFR 415.30 - Applicability; description of the calcium carbide production subcategory.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... calcium carbide production subcategory. 415.30 Section 415.30 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL... SOURCE CATEGORY Calcium Carbide Production Subcategory § 415.30 Applicability; description of the calcium... the production of calcium carbide in uncovered furnaces. ...

Characterization of the carbides and the martensite phase in powder-metallurgy high-speed steel

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

Godec, Matjaz, E-mail: matjaz.godec@imt.si; Batic, Barbara Setina; Mandrino, Djordje

2010-04-15

A microstructural characterization of the powder-metallurgy high-speed-steel S390 Microclean was performed based on an elemental distribution of the carbide phase as well as crystallographic analyses. The results showed that there were two types of carbides present: vanadium-rich carbides, which were not chemically homogeneous and exhibited a tungsten-enriched or tungsten-depleted central area; and chemically homogeneous tungsten-rich M{sub 6}C-type carbides. Despite the possibility of chemical inhomogenities, the crystallographic orientation of each of the carbides was shown to be uniform. Using electron backscatter diffraction the vanadium-rich carbides were determined to be either cubic VC or hexagonal V{sub 6}C{sub 5}, while the tungsten-rich carbidesmore » were M{sub 6}C. The electron backscatter diffraction results were also verified using X-ray diffraction. Several electron backscatter diffraction pattern maps were acquired in order to define the fraction of each carbide phase as well as the amount of martensite phase. The fraction of martensite was estimated using band-contrast images, while the fraction of carbides was calculated using the crystallographic data.« less

Three-dimensional studies of intergranular carbides in austenitic stainless steel.

PubMed

Ochi, Minoru; Kawano, Rika; Maeda, Takuya; Sato, Yukio; Teranishi, Ryo; Hara, Toru; Kikuchi, Masao; Kaneko, Kenji

2017-04-01

A large number of morphological studies of intergranular carbides in steels have always been carried out in two dimensions without considering their dispersion manners. In this article, focused ion beam serial-sectioning tomography was carried out to study the correlation among the grain boundary characteristics, the morphologies and the dispersions of intergranular carbides in 347 austenitic stainless steel. More than hundred intergranular carbides were characterized in three dimensions and finally classified into three different types, two types of carbides probably semi-coherent to one of the neighboring grains with plate-type morphology, and one type of carbides incoherent to both grains with rod-type morphology. In addition, the rod-type carbide was found as the largest number of carbides among three types. Since large numbers of defects, such as misfit dislocations, may be present at the grain boundaries, which can be ideal nucleation sites for intergranular rod-type carbide precipitation. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The Japanese Society of Microscopy. All rights reserved.For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Ultrasound and phenotypic measures of the reproductive tract of prepubertal gilts selected for increased uterine capacity

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Direct selection for uterine capacity (UC) increases litter size without altering ovulation rate. A method to estimate UC in developing gilts would be beneficial for commercial selection strategies. We tested the hypothesis that selection for UC alters phenotypic characteristics of the reproductiv...

Life Cycle Sustainment of Commercial Off-the-Shelf (COTS) Support Equipment

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-05-01

CO E WS50AA 1 N9C422319 BHL10326 UC09AQ Jun-10 AR HOUSTON TX 808 VERTICAL CONST CO E WS50AA 1 N9C422321 BHL10328 UC09AS Jun-10 AR HILO HI 871...VERTICAL CONST CO E WQX8AA 1 N9C422528 BHL10535 UC09RP 23-Apr-10 AR HILO HI 871 VERTICAL CONST CO E WQX8AA 1 N9C422534 BHL10541 UC09RV 23-Apr-10 AR... HILO HI 871 VERTICAL CONST CO E WQX8AA 1 N9C422561 BHL10568 UC09SN 23-Apr-10 AR FT LEONARD WOOD MO 955 HORIZONTAL CONST CO E WRZUAA 1 N9C422375

Patient considerations in the management of ulcerative colitis – role of vedolizumab

PubMed Central

Kothari, Megha; Mudireddy, Prashant; Swaminath, Arun

2015-01-01

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a subtype of inflammatory bowel disease which causes inflammation of the large intestine and affects approximately 7.6–24.6 per 100,000 persons. The therapeutic goal for UC patients is inducing remission, maintaining remission, and ideally, obtaining mucosal healing. Vedolizumab, approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in May 2014 for the treatment of moderate-to-severe UC and Crohn’s disease, is a newly developed anti-integrin therapy. This review focuses on the preclinical development of vedolizumab and data from early trials, and details the results of the landmark trails that led to its approval in the USA with a specific focus on the management of UC. Additionally, data on safety and the current UC management protocols are also discussed. PMID:26316768

Celecoxib-Induced Cytotoxic Effect Is Potentiated by Inhibition of Autophagy in Human Urothelial Carcinoma Cells

PubMed Central

Ho, I-Lin; Chang, Hong-Chiang; Chuang, Yuan-Ting; Lin, Wei-Chou; Lee, Ping-Yi; Chang, Shih-Chen; Chiang, Chih-Kang; Pu, Yeong-Shiau; Chou, Chien-Tso; Hsu, Chen-Hsun; Liu, Shing-Hwa

2013-01-01

Celecoxib, a cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor, can elicit anti-tumor effects in various malignancies. Here, we sought to clarify the role of autophagy in celecoxib-induced cytotoxicity in human urothelial carcinoma (UC) cells. The results shows celecoxib induced cellular stress response such as endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, phosopho-SAPK/JNK, and phosopho-c-Jun as well as autophagosome formation in UC cells. Inhibition of autophagy by 3-methyladenine (3-MA), bafilomycin A1 or ATG7 knockdown potentiated celecoxib-induced apoptosis. Up-regulation of autophagy by rapamycin or GFP-LC3B-transfection alleviated celecoxib-induced cytotoxicity in UC cells. Taken together, the inhibition of autophagy enhances therapeutic efficacy of celecoxib in UC cells, suggesting a novel therapeutic strategy against UC. PMID:24349176

Recent trends and future directions for the medical treatment of ulcerative colitis.

PubMed

Naganuma, Makoto; Mizuno, Shinta; Nanki, Kosaku; Sugimoto, Shinya; Kanai, Takanori

2016-12-01

Recently, several medical treatments for ulcerative colitis (UC) have been developed, including 5-aminosalicylic acids (5-ASAs), corticosteroids, thiopurine, calcineurin inhibitors, and anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) α treatments. Treatment options including calcineurin inhibitors and anti-TNF treatment for refractory UC are discussed in this article. Furthermore, upcoming treatments are introduced, such as golimumab, vedolizumab, AJM300, tofacitinib. Budesonide foamwill be used as one treatment option in patients with distal colitis. Herbal medicine, such as Qing-Dai is also effective for active UC and may be useful for patients who are refractory to anti-TNFα treatments. In the near future, physicians will able to use many different treatments for UC patients. However, we should not forget 5-ASA and corticosteroids as the fundamental treatments for UC patients.

Resveratrol promotes hUC-MSCs engraftment and neural repair in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease.

PubMed

Wang, Xinxin; Ma, Shanshan; Yang, Bo; Huang, Tuanjie; Meng, Nan; Xu, Ling; Xing, Qu; Zhang, Yanting; Zhang, Kun; Li, Qinghua; Zhang, Tao; Wu, Junwei; Yang, Greta Luyuan; Guan, Fangxia; Wang, Jian

2018-02-26

Mesenchymal stem cell transplantation is a promising therapeutic approach for Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, poor engraftment and limited survival rates are major obstacles for its clinical application. Resveratrol, an activator of silent information regulator 2, homolog 1 (SIRT1), regulates cell destiny and is beneficial for neurodegenerative disorders. The present study is designed to explore whether resveratrol regulates the fate of human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs) and whether hUC-MSCs combined with resveratrol would be efficacious in the treatment of neurodegeneration in a mouse model of AD through SIRT1 signaling. Herein, we report that resveratrol facilitates hUC-MSCs engraftment in the hippocampus of AD mice and resveratrol enhances the therapeutic effects of hUC-MSCs in this model as demonstrated by improved learning and memory in the Morris water maze, enhanced neurogenesis and alleviated neural apoptosis in the hippocampus of the AD mice. Moreover, hUC-MSCs and resveratrol jointly regulate expression of hippocampal SIRT1, PCNA, p53, ac-p53, p21, and p16. These data strongly suggests that hUC-MSCs transplantation combined with resveratrol may be an effective therapy for AD. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Coupling of Ag Nanoparticle with Inverse Opal Photonic Crystals as a Novel Strategy for Upconversion Emission Enhancement of NaYF4: Yb(3+), Er(3+) Nanoparticles.

PubMed

Shao, Bo; Yang, Zhengwen; Wang, Yida; Li, Jun; Yang, Jianzhi; Qiu, Jianbei; Song, Zhiguo

2015-11-18

Rare-earth-ion-doped upconversion (UC) nanoparticles have generated considerable interest because of their potential application in solar cells, biological labeling, therapeutics, and imaging. However, the applications of UC nanoparticles were still limited because of their low emission efficiency. Photonic crystals and noble metal nanoparticles are applied extensively to enhance the UC emission of rare earth ions. In the present work, a novel substrate consisting of inverse opal photonic crystals and Ag nanoparticles was prepared by the template-assisted method, which was used to enhance the UC emission of NaYF4: Yb(3+), Er(3+) nanoparticles. The red or green UC emissions of NaYF4: Yb(3+), Er(3+) nanoparticles were selectively enhanced on the inverse opal substrates because of the Bragg reflection of the photonic band gap. Additionally, the UC emission enhancement of NaYF4: Yb(3+), Er(3+) nanoparticles induced by the coupling of metal nanoparticle plasmons and photonic crystal effects was realized on the Ag nanoparticles included in the inverse opal substrate. The present results demonstrated that coupling of Ag nanoparticle with inverse opal photonic crystals provides a useful strategy to enhance UC emission of rare-earth-ion-doped nanoparticles.

The down-conversion and up-conversion photoluminescence properties of Na{sub 0.5}Bi{sub 0.5}TiO{sub 3}:Yb{sup 3+}/Pr{sup 3+} ceramics

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

Huang, Yinpeng; Luo, Laihui, E-mail: luolaihui@nbu.edu.cn; Wang, Jia

2015-07-28

Na{sub 0.5}Bi{sub 0.5−x−y}Yb{sub x}Pr{sub y}TiO{sub 3} (NBT:xYb/yPr) ceramics with different Yb and Pr contents are prepared. Both the down-conversion (DC) and up-conversion (UC) photoluminescence (PL) of the ceramics via 453 and 980 nm excitation, respectively, are investigated. The effect of Yb{sup 3+} and Pr{sup 3+} doping contents on the DC and UC PL is significantly different from each other. Furthermore, the UC PL of the ceramics as a function of temperatures is measured to investigate the UC process in detail. Based on energy level diagram of Pr{sup 3+} and Yb{sup 3+} ions and the DC and UC PL spectra, the DCmore » and UC PL mechanisms of Pr{sup 3+} and Yb{sup 3+} ions are discussed. Especially, the UC PL mechanism is clarified, which is different from the previously reported literature. Also, the temperature sensing properties of the ceramics are studied based on the photoluminescence ratio technique, using the thermal coupling energy levels of Pr{sup 3+}.« less

Evaluation of a Stage-Based, Computer-Tailored Adjunct to Usual Care for Domestic Violence Offenders

PubMed Central

Levesque, Deborah A.; Ciavatta, Mary Margaret; Castle, Patricia H.; Prochaska, Janice M.; Prochaska, James O.

2012-01-01

Objective Research assessing the efficacy of court-mandated domestic violence treatment continues to yield inconsistent results. The current study examined whether Journey to Change, a Transtheoretical Model of Behavior Change-based treatment adjunct that consists of three computer-administered sessions and a print guide, could improve outcomes. Method 492 male domestic violence offenders attending court-mandated batterer treatment were assigned to Usual Care (UC) or Usual Care + Journey to Change (UC + Journey). Results Compared to UC, participants receiving UC + Journey were significantly more likely to be in the Action stage at the end of treatment, and to seek help and services outside of group. Based on victim reports, the UC + Journey group was significantly less likely than UC to engage in physical violence during the 12-month follow-up. Both groups were equally likely to drop out of court-mandated treatment and to have further domestic violence-related police involvement. However, among participants with police involvement, the UC + Journey group had lower rates of documented violence and physical injury. Conclusions The pattern of findings across the multiple outcomes suggests that the Journey to Change program holds promise for improving some outcomes for domestic violence offenders in treatment, and warrants further investigation. PMID:23412627

Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells increase interleukin-9 production of CD4+ T cells

PubMed Central

Yang, Zhou Xin; Chi, Ying; Ji, Yue Ru; Wang, You Wei; Zhang, Jing; Luo, Wei Feng; Li, Li Na; Hu, Cai Dong; Zhuo, Guang Sheng; Wang, Li Fang; Han, Zhi-Bo; Han, Zhong Chao

2017-01-01

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) are able to differentiate into cells of multiple lineage, and additionally act to modulate the immune response. Interleukin (IL)-9 is primarily produced by cluster of differentiation (CD)4+ T cells to regulate the immune response. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of human umbilical cord derived-MSC (UC-MSC) on IL-9 production of human CD4+ T cells. It was demonstrated that the addition of UC-MSC to the culture of CD4+ T cells significantly enhanced IL-9 production by CD4+ T cells. Transwell experiments suggested that UC-MSC promotion of IL-9 production by CD4+ T cells was dependent on cell-cell contact. Upregulated expression of CD106 was observed in UC-MSC co-cultured with CD4+ T cells, and the addition of a blocking antibody of CD106 significantly impaired the ability of UC-MSC to promote IL-9 production by CD4+ T cells. Therefore, the results of the present study demonstrated that UC-MSC promoted the generation of IL-9 producing cells, which may be mediated, in part by CD106. The findings may act to expand understanding and knowledge of the immune modulatory role of UC-MSC. PMID:29042945

Re-dating Zhoukoudian Upper Cave, northern China and its regional significance.

PubMed

Li, Feng; Bae, Christopher J; Ramsey, Christopher B; Chen, Fuyou; Gao, Xing

2018-05-31

Due to the presence of multiple partial modern human skeletons thought to have been interred along with a diversity of evidence of symbolic behavior, Zhoukoudian Upper Cave (ZKD UC; formally "Choukoutien") from northern China has long been a critical site for understanding Late Quaternary human evolution and particularly the role eastern Asia played. Unfortunately, uncertainty regarding ZKD UC's chronology has long hindered determination of its importance in the debate over modern human origins. This situation has been particularly problematic because dates from the primary archaeological layers of ZKD UC have ranged from the Late Pleistocene to the Early Holocene (∼34-10 ka), with clearly different implications depending on which age is used. Here, we present a new set of accelerator mass spectrometry radiocarbon dating results from ZKD UC. Based on this new set of dates and further re-evaluations of the previous dating analyses, archaeological materials, published excavation reports and stratigraphy, we conclude that the ZKD UC archaeological layers minimally date to 35.1-33.5 ka. Given the similarities between the human fossils and archaeology between ZKD UC and western Eurasia, it is likely that the ZKD UC human foragers were part of dispersal events across northern Eurasia toward Siberia and eventually reaching into northern China. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Role of isoenzyme M2 of pyruvate kinase in urothelial tumorigenesis.

PubMed

Zhou, Haiping; Wang, Xing; Mo, Lan; Liu, Yan; He, Feng; Zhang, Fenglin; Huang, Kuo-How; Wu, Xue-Ru

2016-04-26

The conversion of precancerous lesions to full-fledged cancers requires the affected cells to surpass certain rate-limiting steps. We recently showed that activation of HRAS proto-oncogene in urothelial cells of transgenic mice causes simple urothelial hyperplasia (SUH) which is persistent and whose transition to low-grade papillary urothelial carcinoma (UC) must undergo nodular urothelial hyperplasia (NUH). We hypothesized that NUH, which has acquired fibrovascular cores, plays critical roles in mesenchymal-to-epithelial signaling, breaching the barriers of urothelial tumor initiation. Using proteomics involving two-dimensional gel electrophoresis, immunoblotting with pan-phosphotyrosine antibody and MALDI-mass spectrometry, we identified isoform 2 of pyruvate kinase (PKM2) as the major tyrosine-phosphorylated protein switched on during NUH. We extended this finding using specimens from transgenic mice, human UC and UC cell lines, establishing that PKM2, but not its spliced variant PKM1, was over-expressed in low-grade and, more prominently, high-grade UC. In muscle-invasive UC, PKM2 was co-localized with cytokeratins 5 and 14, UC progenitor markers. Specific inhibition of PKM2 by siRNA or shRNA suppressed UC cell proliferation via increased apoptosis, autophagy and unfolded protein response. These results strongly suggest that PKM2 plays an important role in the genesis of low-grade non-invasive and high-grade invasive urothelial carcinomas.

Rotational Rehybridization and the High Temperature Phase of UC2

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

Wen, Xiaodong; Rudin, Sven P.; Batista, Enrique R.

2012-12-03

The screened hybrid approximation (HSE) of density functional theory (DFT) is used to examine the structural, optical, and electronic properties of the high temperature phase, cubic UC(2). This phase contains C(2) units with a computed C-C distance of 1.443 Å which is in the range of a CC double bond; U is formally 4+, C(2) 4-. The closed shell paramagnetic state (NM) was found to lie lowest. Cubic UC(2) is found to be a semiconductor with a narrow gap, 0.4 eV. Interestingly, the C(2) units connecting two uranium sites can rotate freely up to an angle of 30°, indicating amore » hindered rotational solid. Ab-initio molecular dynamic simulations (HSE) show that the rotation of C(2) units in the low temperature phase (tetragonal UC(2)) occurs above 2000 K, in good agreement with experiment. The computed energy barrier for the phase transition from tetragonal UC(2) to cubic UC(2) is around 1.30 eV per UC(2). What is fascinating about this system is that at high temperature, the phase transformation to the cubic phase is associated with a rehybridization of the C atoms from sp to sp(3).« less

Quantification of process variables for carbothermic synthesis of UC1-xNx fuel microspheres

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lindemer, T. B.; Silva, C. M.; Henry, J. J.; McMurray, J. W.; Voit, S. L.; Collins, J. L.; Hunt, R. D.

2017-01-01

This report details the continued investigation of process variables involved in converting sol-gel-derived, urania-carbon microspheres to ∼820-μm-dia. UC1-xNx fuel kernels in flow-through, vertical Mo and W crucibles at temperatures up to 2123 K. Experiments included calcining of air-dried UO3-H2O-C microspheres in Ar and H2-containing gases, conversion of the resulting UO2-C kernels to dense UO2:2UC in the same gases and vacuum, and its conversion in N2 to UC1-xNx (x = ∼0.85). The thermodynamics of the relevant reactions were applied extensively to interpret and control the process variables. Producing the precursor UO2:2UC kernel of ∼96% theoretical density was required, but its subsequent conversion to UC1-xNx at 2123 K was not accompanied by sintering and resulted in ∼83-86% of theoretical density. Increasing the UC1-xNx kernel nitride component to ∼0.98 in flowing N2-H2 mixtures to evolve HCN was shown to be quantitatively consistent with present and past experiments and the only useful application of H2 in the entire process.

Development and Validation of an Inflammatory Bowel Diseases Monitoring Index for Use With Mobile Health Technologies.

PubMed

Van Deen, Welmoed K; van der Meulen-de Jong, Andrea E; Parekh, Nimisha K; Kane, Ellen; Zand, Aria; DiNicola, Courtney A; Hall, Laurin; Inserra, Elizabeth K; Choi, Jennifer M; Ha, Christina Y; Esrailian, Eric; van Oijen, Martijn G H; Hommes, Daniel W

2016-12-01

Mobile health technologies are advancing rapidly as smartphone use increases. Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) might be managed remotely through smartphone applications, but no tools are yet available. We tested the ability of an IBD monitoring tool, which can be used with mobile technologies, to assess disease activity in patients with Crohn's disease (CD) or ulcerative colitis (UC). We performed a prospective observational study to develop and validate a mobile health index for CD and UC, which monitors IBD disease activity using patient-reported outcomes. We collected data from disease-specific questionnaires completed by 110 patients with CD and 109 with UC who visited the University of California, Los Angeles, Center for IBD from May 2013 through January 2014. Patient-reported outcomes were compared with clinical disease activity index scores to identify factors associated with disease activity. Index scores were validated in 301 patients with CD and 265 with UC who visited 3 tertiary IBD referral centers (in California or Europe) from April 2014 through March 2015. We assessed activity of CD based on liquid stool frequency, abdominal pain, patient well-being, and patient-assessed disease control, and activity of UC based on stool frequency, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, and patient-assessed disease control. The indices identified clinical disease activity with area under the receiver operating characteristic curve values of 0.90 in patients with CD and 0.91 in patients with UC. They identified endoscopic activity with area under the receiver operating characteristic values of 0.63 in patients with CD and 0.82 in patients with UC. Both scoring systems responded to changes in disease activity (P < .003). The intraclass correlation coefficient for test-retest reliability was 0.94 for CD and for UC. We developed and validated a scoring system to monitor disease activity in patients with CD and UC that can be used with mobile technologies. The indices identified clinical disease activity with area under the receiver operating characteristic curve values of 0.9 or higher in patients with CD or UC, and endoscopic activity in patients with UC but not CD. Copyright © 2016 AGA Institute. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Avoidable iatrogenic complications of male urethral catheterisation and inadequate intern training: a 4-year follow-up post implementation of an intern training programme.

PubMed

Sullivan, J F; Forde, J C; Thomas, A Z; Creagh, T A

2015-02-01

To assess the impact of a structured training programme in urethral catheterisation (UC) targeted at newly qualified junior doctors on rates of iatrogenic catheter morbidity within a tertiary care referral centre. Male UC-related morbidities were retrospectively identified from our computerised inpatient urology consultation system over a 1-year period from July 2010 to June 2011. Relevant medical records were also reviewed. Results were compared with an initial study performed between July 2006 and June 2007, prior the introduction of a structured training programme in our institution. An anonymous questionnaire was used for the subjective assessment of interns about confidence in catheterising post introduction of the programme. Of 725 urological consultations, 29 (4%) were related to complications arising from male UC during the 1 year period. This reflected a statistically significant decrease when compared to our 2007 figures, 51/864 (6%) (p < 0.05). Again, the most common indication for UC was monitoring urinary output for acute medical illness (19/29, 66%). The most common complication was urethral trauma (16/29, 55%). Of the 29 cases of UC-related morbidity, 18 (62%) resulted from interns performing UC, a decrease of 12% from our original paper. A drop of 27% was seen in the rates of UC related morbidity attributable to interns during the first 6 months of internship (July-December). Overall, 70% (vs 40% original study) of interns felt that their practical training was adequate since introduction of the programme (p < 0.01) with 53% considering theoretical training adequate (vs 16% original study (p < 0.01). When asked were they confident in performing UC, 63% said they were compared to 35% before introduction of the programme (p < 0.05). UC-related iatrogenic morbidity is not uncommon even in a tertiary-care teaching hospital. Implementation of a structured training programme in UC prior to the commencement of intern year has been shown to result in a significant decrease in the amount of iatrogenic UC related morbidity. Copyright © 2014 Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (Scottish charity number SC005317) and Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Deposition method for producing silicon carbide high-temperature semiconductors

DOEpatents

Hsu, George C.; Rohatgi, Naresh K.

1987-01-01

An improved deposition method for producing silicon carbide high-temperature semiconductor material comprising placing a semiconductor substrate composed of silicon carbide in a fluidized bed silicon carbide deposition reactor, fluidizing the bed particles by hydrogen gas in a mildly bubbling mode through a gas distributor and heating the substrate at temperatures around 1200.degree.-1500.degree. C. thereby depositing a layer of silicon carbide on the semiconductor substrate.

Dimensional Analysis and Extended Hydrodynamic Theory Applied to Long-Rod Penetration of Ceramics

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-07-01

thick ceramic targets by tungsten long rod projectiles. The ceramics are AD-995 alumina, aluminum nitride, silicon carbide, and boron carbide. Test...of confined thick ceramic targets by tungsten long rod projectiles. The ceramics are AD-995 alumina, aluminum nitride, silicon carbide, and boron ...since the mid 20th century. Popular candidate ceramics for such systems include alumina, aluminum nitride, boron carbide, silicon carbide, and titanium

MC Carbide Characterization in High Refractory Content Powder-Processed Ni-Based Superalloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Antonov, Stoichko; Chen, Wei; Huo, Jiajie; Feng, Qiang; Isheim, Dieter; Seidman, David N.; Sun, Eugene; Tin, Sammy

2018-04-01

Carbide precipitates in Ni-based superalloys are considered to be desirable phases that can contribute to improving high-temperature properties as well as aid in microstructural refinement of the material; however, they can also serve as crack initiation sites during fatigue. To date, most of the knowledge pertaining to carbide formation has originated from assessments of cast and wrought Ni-based superalloys. As powder-processed Ni-based superalloys are becoming increasingly widespread, understanding the different mechanisms by which they form becomes increasingly important. Detailed characterization of MC carbides present in two experimental high Nb-content powder-processed Ni-based superalloys revealed that Hf additions affect the resultant carbide morphologies. This morphology difference was attributed to a higher magnitude of elastic strain energy along the interface associated with Hf being soluble in the MC carbide lattice. The composition of the MC carbides was studied through atom probe tomography and consisted of a complex carbonitride core, which was rich in Nb and with slight Hf segregation, surrounded by an Nb carbide shell. The characterization results of the segregation behavior of Hf in the MC carbides and the subsequent influence on their morphology were compared to density functional theory calculations and found to be in good agreement, suggesting that computational modeling can successfully be used to tailor carbide features.

Tribological properties of sintered polycrystalline and single crystal silicon carbide

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miyoshi, K.; Buckley, D. H.; Srinivasan, M.

1982-01-01

Tribological studies and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analyses were conducted with sintered polycrystalline and single crystal silicon carbide surfaces in sliding contact with iron at various temperatures to 1500 C in a vacuum of 30 nPa. The results indicate that there is a significant temperature influence on both the friction properties and the surface chemistry of silicon carbide. The main contaminants on the as received sintered polycrystalline silicon carbide surfaces are adsorbed carbon, oxygen, graphite, and silicon dioxide. The surface revealed a low coefficient of friction. This is due to the presence of the graphite on the surface. At temperatures of 400 to 600 C graphite and copious amount of silicon dioxide were observed on the polycrystalline silicon carbide surface in addition to silicon carbide. At 800 C, the amount of the silicon dioxide decreased rapidly and the silicon carbide type silicon and carbon peaks were at a maximum intensity in the XPS spectra. The coefficients of friction were high in the temperature range 400 to 800 C. Small amounts of carbon and oxygen contaminants were observed on the as received single crystal silicon carbide surface below 250 C. Silicon carbide type silicon and carbon peaks were seen on the silicon carbide in addition to very small amount of graphite and silicon dioxide at temperatures of 450 to 800 C.

MC Carbide Characterization in High Refractory Content Powder-Processed Ni-Based Superalloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Antonov, Stoichko; Chen, Wei; Huo, Jiajie; Feng, Qiang; Isheim, Dieter; Seidman, David N.; Sun, Eugene; Tin, Sammy

2018-06-01

Carbide precipitates in Ni-based superalloys are considered to be desirable phases that can contribute to improving high-temperature properties as well as aid in microstructural refinement of the material; however, they can also serve as crack initiation sites during fatigue. To date, most of the knowledge pertaining to carbide formation has originated from assessments of cast and wrought Ni-based superalloys. As powder-processed Ni-based superalloys are becoming increasingly widespread, understanding the different mechanisms by which they form becomes increasingly important. Detailed characterization of MC carbides present in two experimental high Nb-content powder-processed Ni-based superalloys revealed that Hf additions affect the resultant carbide morphologies. This morphology difference was attributed to a higher magnitude of elastic strain energy along the interface associated with Hf being soluble in the MC carbide lattice. The composition of the MC carbides was studied through atom probe tomography and consisted of a complex carbonitride core, which was rich in Nb and with slight Hf segregation, surrounded by an Nb carbide shell. The characterization results of the segregation behavior of Hf in the MC carbides and the subsequent influence on their morphology were compared to density functional theory calculations and found to be in good agreement, suggesting that computational modeling can successfully be used to tailor carbide features.

Dose-Dependent Effect of Intravenous Administration of Human Umbilical Cord-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Neonatal Stroke Mice

PubMed Central

Tanaka, Emi; Ogawa, Yuko; Mukai, Takeo; Sato, Yoshiaki; Hamazaki, Takashi; Nagamura-Inoue, Tokiko; Harada-Shiba, Mariko; Shintaku, Haruo; Tsuji, Masahiro

2018-01-01

Neonatal brain injury induced by stroke causes significant disability, including cerebral palsy, and there is no effective therapy for stroke. Recently, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have emerged as a promising tool for stem cell-based therapies. In this study, we examined the safety and efficacy of intravenously administered human umbilical cord-derived MSCs (UC-MSCs) in neonatal stroke mice. Pups underwent permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion at postnatal day 12 (P12), and low-dose (1 × 104) or high-dose (1 × 105) UC-MSCs were administered intravenously 48 h after the insult (P14). To evaluate the effect of the UC-MSC treatment, neurological behavior and cerebral blood flow were measured, and neuroanatomical analysis was performed at P28. To investigate the mechanisms of intravenously injected UC-MSCs, systemic blood flowmetry, in vivo imaging and human brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) measurements were performed. Functional disability was significantly improved in the high-dose UC-MSC group when compared with the vehicle group, but cerebral blood flow and cerebral hemispheric volume were not restored by UC-MSC therapy. The level of exogenous human BDNF was elevated only in the cerebrospinal fluid of one pup 24 h after UC-MSC injection, and in vivo imaging revealed that most UC-MSCs were trapped in the lungs and disappeared in a week without migration toward the brain or other organs. We found that systemic blood flow was stable over the 10 min after cell administration and that there were no differences in mortality among the groups. Immunohistopathological assessment showed that the percent area of Iba1-positive staining in the peri-infarct cortex was significantly reduced with the high-dose UC-MSC treatment compared with the vehicle treatment. These results suggest that intravenous administration of UC-MSCs is safe for a mouse model of neonatal stroke and improves dysfunction after middle cerebral artery occlusion by modulating the microglial reaction in the peri-infarct cortex. PMID:29568282

Polymorphism of inflammatory genes and arsenic methylation capacity are associated with urothelial carcinoma

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

Wu, Chia-Chang; Department of Urology, Taipei Medical University—Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Huang, Yung-Kai

2013-10-01

Chronic exposure to arsenic can generate reactive oxidative species, which can induce certain proinflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-8 (IL-8). TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-8 have been shown to be involved in the development and progression of various cancers, including bladder cancer. This study aimed to investigate the joint effect of the polymorphism of TNF-α − 308 G/A, IL-6 − 174 G/C, IL-8 − 251 T/A and urinary arsenic profiles on urothelial carcinoma (UC) risk. This study evaluated 300 pathologically-confirmed cases of UC and 594 cancer-free controls. Urinary arsenic species were detected using high-performance liquidmore » chromatography-linked hydride generator and atomic absorption spectrometry. The polymorphism of TNF-α − 308 G/A, IL-6 − 174 G/C and IL-8 − 251 T/A was determined using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism. The joint effects on UC risk were estimated by odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals using unconditional logistic regression. We found that the TNF-α − 308 A/A and IL-8 − 251 T/T polymorphisms were significantly associated with UC. Moreover, significant dose–response joint effect of TNF-α − 308 A/A or IL-8 − 251 T/T genotypes and arsenic methylation indices were seen to affect UC risk. The present results also showed a significant increase in UC risk in subjects with the IL-8 − 251 T/T genotype for each SD increase in urinary total arsenic and MMA%. In contrast, a significant decrease in UC risk was found in subjects who carried the IL-8 − 251 T/T genotype for each SD increase in DMA%. - Highlights: • Joint effect of the TNF-α -308 A/A genotype and urinary total arsenic affected UC. • Joint effect of the IL-8 -251 T/T genotype and urinary total arsenic affected UC. • Urinary total arsenic level, TNF-α -308 A/A and IL-8 -251 T/T genotype affected UC.« less

CAMPARE and Cal-Bridge: Two Institutional Networks Increasing Diversity in Astronomy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rudolph, Alexander L.; Smecker-Hane, Tammy A.

2017-01-01

We describe two programs, CAMPARE and Cal-Bridge, with the common mission of increasing participation of groups traditionally underrepresented in astronomy, through summer research opportunities, in the case of CAMPARE, scholarships in the case of Cal-Bridge, and significant mentoring in both programs, creating a national impact on their numbers successfully pursuing a PhD in the field.In 7 years, the CAMPARE program has sent 80 students, >80% from underrepresented groups, to conduct summer research at one of 14 major research institutions throughout the country. The graduation rate among CAMPARE scholars is 98%, and of the CAMPARE scholars who have graduated with a Bachelor’s degree, more than 60% have completed or are pursuing graduate education in astronomy or a related field, at institutions including UCLA, UC Riverside, UC Irvine, UC Santa Barbara, USC, Stanford, Univ. of Arizona, Univ. of Washington, and the Fisk-Vanderbilt Master’s-to-PhD program.Now entering its third year, the Cal-Bridge program is a CSU-UC Bridge program comprised of over 75 physics and astronomy faculty from 5 University of California (UC), 9 California State University (CSU), and 14 California Community College (CCC) campuses in Southern California. In the first three years, 22 Cal-Bridge Scholars have been selected, including 11 Hispanic, 3 African-American and 8 female students, 5 of whom are from URM groups. Nineteen (19) of the 22 Cal-Bridge Scholars are first-generation college students. The entire first cohort of 4 Cal-Bridge scholars was accepted to one or more PhD programs in astronomy or physics, including UC Irvine, UC Santa Cruz, UC Davis, Michigan State, and Georgia State Universities. The second cohort of 8 Cal-Bridge scholars is applying to graduate schools this fall.Cal-Bridge provides much deeper mentoring and professional development experiences over the last two years of undergraduate and first year of graduate school to students from this diverse network of higher education institutions. Cal-Bridge Scholars benefit from substantial financial support, intensive, joint mentoring by CSU and UC faculty, professional development workshops, and exposure to research opportunities at the participating UC campuses.

Carbide coated fibers in graphite-aluminum composites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Imprescia, R. J.; Levinson, L. S.; Reiswig, R. D.; Wallace, T. C.; Williams, J. M.

1975-01-01

The study of protective-coupling layers of refractory metal carbides on the graphite fibers prior to their incorporation into composites is presented. Such layers should be directly wettable by liquid aluminum and should act as diffusion barriers to prevent the formation of aluminum carbide. Chemical vapor deposition was used to uniformly deposit thin, smooth, continuous coats of ZrC on the carbon fibers of tows derived from both rayon and polyacrylonitrile. A wet chemical coating of the fibers, followed by high-temperature treatment, was used, and showed promise as an alternative coating method. Experiments were performed to demonstrate the ability of aluminum alloys to wet carbide surfaces. Titanium carbide, zirconium carbide and carbide-coated graphite surfaces were successfully wetted. Results indicate that initial attempts to wet surfaces of ZrC-coated carbon fibers appear successful.

Assessing the Impact of Surgeon Experience on Urinary Continence Recovery After Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy: Results of Four High-Volume Surgeons.

PubMed

Fossati, Nicola; Di Trapani, Ettore; Gandaglia, Giorgio; Dell'Oglio, Paolo; Umari, Paolo; Buffi, Nicolò Maria; Guazzoni, Giorgio; Mottrie, Alexander; Gaboardi, Franco; Montorsi, Francesco; Briganti, Alberto; Suardi, Nazareno

2017-09-01

To test the impact of surgeon experience on urinary continence (UC) recovery after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). The study included 1477 consecutive patients treated with RARP by four surgeons between 2006 and 2014. UC recovery was defined as being completely dry over a 24-hour period at follow-up. Surgeon experience was coded as the total number of RARP performed by the surgeon before the patient's operation. Multivariable analysis tested the association between surgeon experience and UC recovery. Covariates consisted of patient age, Charlson comorbidity index, preoperative International Index of Erectile Function-Erectile Function domain (IIEF-EF), nerve-sparing surgery (none vs unilateral vs bilateral), and preoperative risk groups (low- vs intermediate- vs high risk). The number of cases performed by each surgeon was 541, 413, 411, and 112, respectively. Median follow-up was 24 months (inter-quartile range: 18, 40). The UC recovery rate at 1 year after surgery was 82%. At multivariable analyses, surgeon experience represented an independent predictor of UC recovery (hazard ratio: 1.02, p < 0.001). The surgical learning curve was similar among surgeons, moving linearly from ∼60% of UC rate at the initial cases to almost 90% after more than 400 procedures. In patients undergoing RARP, surgeon experience is a significant predictor of UC recovery. The surgical learning curve of UC recovery does not reach a plateau even after more than 100 cases, suggesting a continuous improvement of the surgical technique. These findings deserve attention for patient counseling and future comparative studies evaluating functional outcomes after RARP.

Evaluation of various carbon blacks and dispersing agents for use in the preparation of uranium microspheres with carbon

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hunt, R. D.; Johnson, J. A.; Collins, J. L.; McMurray, J. W.; Reif, T. J.; Brown, D. R.

2018-01-01

A comparison study on carbon blacks and dispersing agents was performed to determine their impacts on the final properties of uranium fuel kernels with carbon. The main target compositions in this internal gelation study were 10 and 20 mol % uranium dicarbide (UC2), which is UC1.86, with the balance uranium dioxide. After heat treatment at 1900 K in flowing carbon monoxide in argon for 12 h, the density of the kernels produced using a X-energy proprietary carbon suspension, which is commercially available, ranged from 96% to 100% of theoretical density (TD), with full conversion of UC to UC2 at both carbon concentrations. However, higher carbon concentrations such as a 2.5 mol ratio of carbon to uranium in the feed solutions failed to produce gel spheres with the proprietary carbon suspension. The kernels using our former baseline of Mogul L carbon black and Tamol SN were 90-92% of TD with full conversion of UC to UC2 at a variety of carbon levels. Raven 5000 carbon black and Tamol SN were used to produce 10 mol % UC2 kernels with 95% of TD. However, an increase in the Raven 5000 concentration led to a kernel density below 90% of TD. Raven 3500 carbon black and Tamol SN were used to make very dense kernels without complete conversion to UC2. The selection of the carbon black and dispersing agent is highly dependent on the desired final properties of the target kernels.

Efficacy of vedolizumab for induction of clinical response and remission in patients with moderate to severe inflammatory bowel disease who failed at least two TNF antagonists.

PubMed

De Vos, Martine; Dhooghe, Barbara; Vermeire, Severine; Louis, Edouard; Mana, Fazia; Elewaut, Ann; Bossuyt, Peter; Baert, Filip; Reenaers, Catherine; Van Gossum, Marc; Macken, Elisabeth; Ferrante, Marc; Hindryckx, Pieter; Dewit, Olivier; Holvoet, Tom; Franchimont, Denis

2018-04-01

Vedolizumab is a recently available monoclonal antibody targeting α4β7 integrin for the treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD). The objective of this article is to evaluate the efficacy of vedolizumab induction therapy in anti-TNF-refractory/intolerant UC and CD patients in real life. A cohort of 149 moderately to severely active UC and CD patients who failed or showed intolerance to at least two TNF antagonists participated in a medical need program and received vedolizumab in 37 Belgian centers (April-September 2015). Rates of clinical response and remission were retrospectively evaluated at Week 10 for UC and Week 14 for CD using the physician's global assessment (PGA), Mayo score and Harvey Bradshaw index (HBI) or Crohn's disease activity score (CDAI) scores. Eighty-four patients (29 UC, 55 CD) had sufficient data for analysis. For UC patients, clinical response was observed in 76% based on PGA and 59% based on the Mayo score. The corresponding percentages for CD patients were 80% for PGA and 65% for HBI/CDAI. Clinical remission rates were 10% and 40% for UC and CD, respectively. Steroid-free remission was observed in respectively 10% and 35%. Globally, corticosteroids were stopped in 14 out of 48 patients (29%). No new safety signals were reported. Up to 70% TNF-refractory/intolerant UC and CD patients achieved a clinical response after 10 to 14 weeks of vedolizumab treatment in this real-life cohort.

Enteric microbiota leads to new therapeutic strategies for ulcerative colitis.

PubMed

Chen, Wei-Xu; Ren, Li-Hua; Shi, Rui-Hua

2014-11-14

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a leading form of inflammatory bowel disease that involves chronic relapsing or progressive inflammation. As a significant proportion of UC patients treated with conventional therapies do not achieve remission, there is a pressing need for the development of more effective therapies. The human gut contains a large, diverse, and dynamic population of microorganisms, collectively referred to as the enteric microbiota. There is a symbiotic relationship between the human host and the enteric microbiota, which provides nutrition, protection against pathogenic organisms, and promotes immune homeostasis. An imbalance of the normal enteric microbiota composition (termed dysbiosis) underlies the pathogenesis of UC. A reduction of enteric microbiota diversity has been observed in UC patients, mainly affecting the butyrate-producing bacteria, such as Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, which can repress pro-inflammatory cytokines. Many studies have shown that enteric microbiota plays an important role in anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory activities, which can benefit UC patients. Therefore, manipulation of the dysbiosis is an attractive approach for UC therapy. Various therapies targeting a restoration of the enteric microbiota have shown efficacy in treating patients with active and chronic forms of UC. Such therapies include fecal microbiota transplantation, probiotics, prebiotics, antibiotics, helminth therapy, and dietary polyphenols, all of which can alter the abundance and composition of the enteric microbiota. Although there have been many large, randomized controlled clinical trials assessing these treatments, the effectiveness and safety of these bacteria-driven therapies need further evaluation. This review focuses on the important role that the enteric microbiota plays in maintaining intestinal homeostasis and discusses new therapeutic strategies targeting the enteric microbiota for UC.

Validation of a urine color scale for assessment of urine osmolality in healthy children.

PubMed

Kavouras, Stavros A; Johnson, Evan C; Bougatsas, Dimitris; Arnaoutis, Giannis; Panagiotakos, Demosthenes B; Perrier, Erica; Klein, Alexis

2016-04-01

Urine color (UC) is a practical tool for hydration assessment. The technique has been validated in adults, but has not been tested in children. The purpose of the study was to test the validity of the urine color scale in young, healthy boys and girls, as a marker of urine concentration, investigate its diagnostic ability of detecting hypohydration and examine the ability of children to self-assess UC. A total of 210 children participated (age: 8-14 years, body mass: 43.4 ± 12.6 kg, height: 1.49 ± 0.13 m, body fat: 25.2 ± 7.8 %). Data collection included: two single urine samples (first morning and before lunch) and 24-h sampling. Hydration status was assessed via urine osmolality (UOsmo) and UC via the eight-point color scale. Mean UC was 3 ± 1 and UOsmo 686 ± 223 mmol kg(-1). UC displayed a positive relationship as a predictor of UOsmo (R (2): 0.45, P < 0.001). Based on the receiver operating curve, UC has good overall classification ability for the three samples (area under the curve 85-92 %), with good sensitivity (92-98 %) and specificity (55-68 %) for detecting hypohydration. The overall accuracy of the self-assessment of UC in the morning or the noon samples ranged from 67 to 78 %. Further threshold analysis indicated that the optimal self-assessed UC threshold for hypohydration was ≥4. The classical eight-point urine color scale is a valid method to assess hydration in children of age 8-14 years, either by researchers or self-assessment.

Low prevalence of Blastocystis sp. in active ulcerative colitis patients.

PubMed

Rossen, N G; Bart, A; Verhaar, N; van Nood, E; Kootte, R; de Groot, P F; D'Haens, G R; Ponsioen, C Y; van Gool, T

2015-05-01

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is thought to originate from a disbalance in the interplay between the gut microbiota and the innate and adaptive immune system. Apart from the bacterial microbiota, there might be other organisms, such as parasites or viruses, that could play a role in the aetiology of UC. The primary objective of this study was to compare the prevalence of Blastocystis sp. in a cohort of patients with active UC and compare that to the prevalence in healthy controls. We studied patients with active UC confirmed by endoscopy included in a randomised prospective trial on the faecal transplantation for UC. A cohort of healthy subjects who served as donors in randomised trials on faecal transplantation were controls. Healthy subjects did not have gastrointestinal symptoms and were extensively screened for infectious diseases by a screenings questionnaire, extensive serologic assessment for viruses and stool analysis. Potential parasitic infections such as Blastocystis were diagnosed with the triple faeces test (TFT). The prevalence of Blastocystis sp. were compared between groups by Chi-square testing. A total of 168 subjects were included, of whom 45 had active UC [median age 39.0 years, interquartile range (IQR) 32.5-49.0, 49 % male] and 123 were healthy subjects (median age 27 years, IQR 22.0-37.0, 54 % male). Blastocystis sp. was present in the faeces of 40/123 (32.5 %) healthy subjects and 6/45 (13.3 %) UC patients (p = 0.014). Infection with Blastocystis is significantly less frequent in UC patients as compared to healthy controls.

Ulcerative colitis and pregnancy outcomes in an Asian population.

PubMed

Lin, Herng-Ching; Chiu, Ching-Che Jason; Chen, Shu-Fen; Lou, Horng-Yuan; Chiu, Wen-Ta; Chen, Yi-Hua

2010-02-01

As the prevalence of ulcerative colitis (UC) is much higher in Western countries than in Asian countries, previous investigations of pregnancy outcomes for women with UC were limited to people of European descent. This study was aimed at examining the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes (low birth weight (LBW), preterm birth, small for gestational age (SGA), and cesarean section (CS)) among Asian women with UC. Using a 3-year nationwide population-based database, we identified a total of 196 women who gave birth from 2001 to 2003, who were diagnosed with UC within 2 years before their index deliveries. A total of 1,568 unaffected pregnant women matched these cases according to age and year of delivery. Conditional logistic regression analyses were performed to estimate risk. There were significant differences between women with and without UC in terms of LBW (12.76% vs. 5.55, P<0.001) and preterm births (11.73% vs. 6.25%, P=0.004). After adjusting for infant gender, parity, maternal age, highest maternal educational level, parental age difference, maternal marital status, hypertension, diabetes, anemia, family monthly income, as well as conditioning on maternal age and year of delivery, the odds of LBW and preterm births for women with UC were 2.36 (95% confidence interval (CI)=1.45-3.82) and 1.90 (95% CI=1.16-3.11) times, respectively, those for unaffected women. Although UC often follows a milder disease course in Asians than in people of European descent, we demonstrated that Asian women suffering from UC were still at risk of having preterm and LBW babies, compared with unaffected mothers.

IBS-like symptoms in patients with ulcerative colitis

PubMed Central

Gracie, David J; Ford, Alexander C

2015-01-01

Ulcerative colitis (UC) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are chronic gastrointestinal disorders that, until recently, have been considered dichotomous conditions falling on either side of a functional-organic divide. However, persistent gastrointestinal symptoms, akin to those of IBS, are observed in up to one in three patients with quiescent UC. Whether these lower gastrointestinal symptoms are secondary to coexistent IBS or occult UC disease activity is uncertain, but when objective evidence of disease activity is lacking, escalation of conventional pharmacotherapy in such patients is often ineffective. The etiologies of both UC and IBS remain unclear, but dysregulation of the enteric nervous system, an altered microbiome, low-grade mucosal inflammation, and activation of the brain–gut axis is common to both; this suggests that some overlap between the two conditions is plausible. How best to investigate and manage IBS-type symptoms in UC patients remains unclear. Studies that have assessed patients with UC who meet criteria for IBS for subclinical inflammation have been conflicting in their results. Although evidence-based treatments for IBS exist, their efficacy in UC patients reporting these types of symptoms remains unclear. Given the disturbances in gut microbiota in UC, and the possible role of the brain–gut axis in the generation of such symptoms, treatments such as probiotics, fecal transfer, antidepressants, or psychological therapies would seem logical approaches to use in this group of patients. However, there are only limited data for all of these therapies; this suggests that randomized controlled trials to investigate their efficacy in this setting may be warranted. PMID:25733921

IBS-like symptoms in patients with ulcerative colitis.

PubMed

Gracie, David J; Ford, Alexander C

2015-01-01

Ulcerative colitis (UC) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are chronic gastrointestinal disorders that, until recently, have been considered dichotomous conditions falling on either side of a functional-organic divide. However, persistent gastrointestinal symptoms, akin to those of IBS, are observed in up to one in three patients with quiescent UC. Whether these lower gastrointestinal symptoms are secondary to coexistent IBS or occult UC disease activity is uncertain, but when objective evidence of disease activity is lacking, escalation of conventional pharmacotherapy in such patients is often ineffective. The etiologies of both UC and IBS remain unclear, but dysregulation of the enteric nervous system, an altered microbiome, low-grade mucosal inflammation, and activation of the brain-gut axis is common to both; this suggests that some overlap between the two conditions is plausible. How best to investigate and manage IBS-type symptoms in UC patients remains unclear. Studies that have assessed patients with UC who meet criteria for IBS for subclinical inflammation have been conflicting in their results. Although evidence-based treatments for IBS exist, their efficacy in UC patients reporting these types of symptoms remains unclear. Given the disturbances in gut microbiota in UC, and the possible role of the brain-gut axis in the generation of such symptoms, treatments such as probiotics, fecal transfer, antidepressants, or psychological therapies would seem logical approaches to use in this group of patients. However, there are only limited data for all of these therapies; this suggests that randomized controlled trials to investigate their efficacy in this setting may be warranted.

Preparation and electrocatalytic activity of tungsten carbide and titania nanocomposite

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

Hu, Sujuan; Shi, Binbin; Yao, Guoxing

2011-10-15

Graphical abstract: The electrocatalytic activity of tungsten carbide and titania nanocomposite is related to the structure, crystal phase and chemical components of the nanocomposite, and is also affected by the property of electrolyte. A synergistic effect exists between tungsten carbide and titania of the composite. Highlights: {yields} Electrocatalytic activity of tungsten carbide and titania nanocomposite with core-shell structure. {yields} Activity is related to the structure, crystal phase and chemical component of the nanocomposite. {yields} The property of electrolyte affects the electrocatalytic activity. {yields} A synergistic effect exists between tungsten carbide and titania of the composite. -- Abstract: Tungsten carbide andmore » titania nanocomposite was prepared by combining a reduced-carbonized approach with a mechanochemical approach. The samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscope under scanning mode and X-ray energy dispersion spectrum. The results show that the crystal phases of the samples are composed of anatase, rutile, nonstoichiometry titanium oxide, monotungsten carbide, bitungsten carbide and nonstoichiometry tungsten carbide, and they can be controlled by adjusting the parameters of the reduced-carbonized approach; tungsten carbide particles decorate on the surface of titania support, the diameter of tungsten carbide particle is smaller than 20 nm and that of titania is around 100 nm; the chemical components of the samples are Ti, O, W and C. The electrocatalytic activity of the samples was measured by a cyclic voltammetry with three electrodes. The results indicate that the electrocatalytic activities of the samples are related to their crystal phases and the property of electrolyte in aqueous solution. A synergistic effect between titania and tungsten carbide is reported for the first time.« less

46 CFR 54.25-7 - Requirement for postweld heat treatment (modifies UCS-56).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Requirement for postweld heat treatment (modifies UCS-56... ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS Construction With Carbon, Alloy, and Heat Treated Steels § 54.25-7 Requirement for postweld heat treatment (modifies UCS-56). (a) Postweld heat treatment is required for all carbon...

46 CFR 54.25-7 - Requirement for postweld heat treatment (modifies UCS-56).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Requirement for postweld heat treatment (modifies UCS-56... ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS Construction With Carbon, Alloy, and Heat Treated Steels § 54.25-7 Requirement for postweld heat treatment (modifies UCS-56). (a) Postweld heat treatment is required for all carbon...

46 CFR 54.25-7 - Requirement for postweld heat treatment (modifies UCS-56).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Requirement for postweld heat treatment (modifies UCS-56... ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS Construction With Carbon, Alloy, and Heat Treated Steels § 54.25-7 Requirement for postweld heat treatment (modifies UCS-56). (a) Postweld heat treatment is required for all carbon...

46 CFR 54.25-7 - Requirement for postweld heat treatment (modifies UCS-56).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Requirement for postweld heat treatment (modifies UCS-56... ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS Construction With Carbon, Alloy, and Heat Treated Steels § 54.25-7 Requirement for postweld heat treatment (modifies UCS-56). (a) Postweld heat treatment is required for all carbon...

46 CFR 54.25-7 - Requirement for postweld heat treatment (modifies UCS-56).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Requirement for postweld heat treatment (modifies UCS-56... for postweld heat treatment (modifies UCS-56). (a) Postweld heat treatment is required for all carbon... the storage or transportation of liquefied compressed gases shall be postweld heat treated regardless...

Fairness and Fate in Elite College Admissions

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Handel, Stephen J.

2017-01-01

The University of California (UC) is a research-intensive institution that is widely considered to be the best public university system in the United States. A total of 147 years of sustained academic distinction has made admission to UC's nine undergraduate campuses among the most competitive in the nation. More students apply to UC than any…

International Students at the University of California: The Impact on Writing Center Practice

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cross, Sue; Holten, Christine; Picciotto, Madeleine; Ruble, Kelley

2015-01-01

The dramatically increasing number of international students at University of California (UC) campuses has had a marked effect on its campus writing centers, causing a reconsideration of personnel, pedagogy, training, services, and cross-campus partnerships. In this article, writing center administrators and staff at 3 UC campuses--UC Irvine,…

46 CFR 54.25-3 - Steel plates (modifies UCS-6).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Steel plates (modifies UCS-6). 54.25-3 Section 54.25-3 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS Construction With Carbon, Alloy, and Heat Treated Steels § 54.25-3 Steel plates (modifies UCS-6). The steels...

46 CFR 54.25-3 - Steel plates (modifies UCS-6).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Steel plates (modifies UCS-6). 54.25-3 Section 54.25-3 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS Construction With Carbon, Alloy, and Heat Treated Steels § 54.25-3 Steel plates (modifies UCS-6). The steels...

46 CFR 54.25-3 - Steel plates (modifies UCS-6).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Steel plates (modifies UCS-6). 54.25-3 Section 54.25-3 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS Construction With Carbon, Alloy, and Heat Treated Steels § 54.25-3 Steel plates (modifies UCS-6). The steels...

46 CFR 54.25-3 - Steel plates (modifies UCS-6).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Steel plates (modifies UCS-6). 54.25-3 Section 54.25-3 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS Construction With Carbon, Alloy, and Heat Treated Steels § 54.25-3 Steel plates (modifies UCS-6). The steels...

46 CFR 54.25-3 - Steel plates (modifies UCS-6).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Steel plates (modifies UCS-6). 54.25-3 Section 54.25-3 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS Construction With Carbon, Alloy, and Heat Treated Steels § 54.25-3 Steel plates (modifies UCS-6). The steels...

Human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells protect from hyperoxic lung injury by ameliorating aberrant elastin remodeling in the lung of O2-exposed newborn rat.

PubMed

Hou, Chen; Peng, Danyi; Gao, Li; Tian, Daiyin; Dai, Jihong; Luo, Zhengxiu; Liu, Enmei; Chen, Hong; Zou, Lin; Fu, Zhou

2018-01-08

The incidence and mortality rates of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) remain very high. Therefore, novel therapies are imminently needed to improve the outcome of this disease. Human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs) show promising therapeutic effects on oxygen-induced model of BPD. In our experiment, UC-MSCs were intratracheally delivered into the newborn rats exposed to hyperoxia, a well-established BPD model. This study demonstrated that UC-MSCs reduce elastin expression stimulated by 90% O 2 in human lung fibroblasts-a (HLF-a), and inhibit HLF-a transdifferentiation into myofibroblasts. In addition, the therapeutic effects of UC-MSCs in neonatal rats with BPD, UC-MSCs could inhibit lung elastase activity and reduce aberrant elastin expression and deposition in the lung of BPD rats. Overall, this study suggested that UC-MSCs could ameliorate aberrant elastin expression in the lung of hyperoxia-induced BPD model which may be associated with suppressing increased TGFβ1 activation. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Computational Prediction and Validation of BAHD1 as a Novel Molecule for Ulcerative Colitis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Huatuo; Wan, Xingyong; Li, Jing; Han, Lu; Bo, Xiaochen; Chen, Wenguo; Lu, Chao; Shen, Zhe; Xu, Chenfu; Chen, Lihua; Yu, Chaohui; Xu, Guoqiang

2015-07-01

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a common inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) producing intestinal inflammation and tissue damage. The precise aetiology of UC remains unknown. In this study, we applied a rank-based expression profile comparative algorithm, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), to evaluate the expression profiles of UC patients and small interfering RNA (siRNA)-perturbed cells to predict proteins that might be essential in UC from publicly available expression profiles. We used quantitative PCR (qPCR) to characterize the expression levels of those genes predicted to be the most important for UC in dextran sodium sulphate (DSS)-induced colitic mice. We found that bromo-adjacent homology domain (BAHD1), a novel heterochromatinization factor in vertebrates, was the most downregulated gene. We further validated a potential role of BAHD1 as a regulatory factor for inflammation through the TNF signalling pathway in vitro. Our findings indicate that computational approaches leveraging public gene expression data can be used to infer potential genes or proteins for diseases, and BAHD1 might act as an indispensable factor in regulating the cellular inflammatory response in UC.

Toll-like receptor 6 and connective tissue growth factor are significantly upregulated in mitomycin-C-treated urothelial carcinoma cells under hydrostatic pressure stimulation.

PubMed

Chen, Shao-Kuan; Chung, Chih-Ang; Cheng, Yu-Che; Huang, Chi-Jung; Chen, Wen-Yih; Ruaan, Ruoh-Chyu; Li, Chuan; Tsao, Chia-Wen; Hu, Wei-Wen; Chien, Chih-Cheng

2014-06-01

Urothelial carcinoma (UC) is the most common histologic subtype of bladder cancer. The administration of mitomycin C (MMC) into the bladder after transurethral resection of the bladder tumor (TURBT) is a common treatment strategy for preventing recurrence after surgery. We previously applied hydrostatic pressure combined with MMC in UC cells and found that hydrostatic pressure synergistically enhanced MMC-induced UC cell apoptosis through the Fas/FasL pathways. To understand the alteration of gene expressions in UC cells caused by hydrostatic pressure and MMC, oligonucleotide microarray was used to explore all the differentially expressed genes. After bioinformatics analysis and gene annotation, Toll-like receptor 6 (TLR6) and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) showed significant upregulation among altered genes, and their gene and protein expressions with each treatment of UC cells were validated by quantitative real-time PCR and immunoblotting. Under treatment with MMC and hydrostatic pressure, UC cells showed increasing apoptosis using extrinsic pathways through upregulation of TLR6 and CTGF.

Decreased levels of serum omentin-1 in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.

PubMed

Yin, Jian; Hou, Peng; Wu, Zhiqiang; Nie, Yanxiao

2015-01-10

Inflammation is involved in the mechanism of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Omentin, a newly discovered adipokine, is thought to play an anti-inflammatory role. This study aimed to determine whether serum levels of omentin-1 are associated with the presence and disease activity of IBD. This study consisted of 192 patients with IBD: 100 with Crohn's disease [CD], 92 with ulcerative colitis [UC], and 104 healthy subjects. Serum levels of omentin-1 were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Serum omentin-1 levels were significantly decreased in CD and UC patients compared with healthy controls. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that serum omentin-1 levels were inversely associated with the presence of CD and UC. Active CD and UC patients both had significantly decreased levels of serum omentin-1 compared with inactive CD and UC patients. In both CD and UC patients, serum omentin-1 levels were significantly associated with decreased levels of body mass index (BMI) and C-reactive protein (CRP). Decreased serum omentin-1 levels could be considered as an independent predicting marker of the presence and disease activity of IBD.

Frequency and prognostic role of mucosal healing in patients with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis after one-year of biological therapy

PubMed Central

Farkas, Klaudia; Lakatos, Péter László; Szűcs, Mónika; Pallagi-Kunstár, Éva; Bálint, Anita; Nagy, Ferenc; Szepes, Zoltán; Vass, Noémi; Kiss, Lajos S; Wittmann, Tibor; Molnár, Tamás

2014-01-01

AIM: To assess the endoscopic activity before and after a one-year period of biological therapy and to evaluate the frequency of relapses and need for retreatment after stopping the biologicals in patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). METHODS: The data from 41 patients with CD and 22 patients with UC were assessed. Twenty-four CD patients received infliximab, and 17 received adalimumab. The endoscopic severity of CD was quantified with the simplified endoscopic activity score for Crohn’s disease in CD and with the Mayo endoscopic subscore in UC. RESULTS: Mucosal healing was achieved in 23 CD and 7 UC patients. Biological therapy had to be restarted in 78% of patients achieving complete mucosal healing with CD and in 100% of patients with UC. Neither clinical remission nor mucosal healing was associated with the time to restarting the biological therapy in either CD or UC. CONCLUSION: Mucosal healing did not predict sustained clinical remission in patients in whom the biological therapies had been stopped. PMID:24659890

Urothelial carcinoma involving the distal penis.

PubMed

Dason, Shawn; Sheikh, Adeel; Wang, Jing Gennie; Tauqir, Syeda; Davies, Timothy O; Shayegan, Bobby

2012-04-01

Urothelial carcinoma (UC) rarely metastasizes to the penis and skin. We report the case of a 73-year-old man with UC metastases to the corpus spongiosum and dermis of the distal penis. We also review the clinicopathologic characteristics and management options for UC metastasizing to the penis. The patient presented with priapism and edema of the genital region. This follows a 5-year history of urothelial carcinoma in situ that progressed to invasive cancer despite intravesical immunotherapy. Seventeen months prior to presentation, the patient underwent a radical cystectomy with adjuvant chemotherapy. The cystectomy specimen demonstrated a pT4a N2 M0 G3 UC and margins were positive for carcinoma in situ. Follow-up had been negative for recurrence until his presentation with priapism. Incisional biopsy of the glans revealed UC and radical penectomy was performed with negative margins. The penile specimen demonstrated extensive involvement of the corpus spongiosum by UC with lymphovascular invasion and subepidermal involvement. Three months after penectomy, the patient presented with inguinal nodal recurrence. Palliative radiotherapy was administered and the patient passed away eight months after surgery.

The association between three promoter polymorphisms of IL-10 and inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD): a meta-analysis.

PubMed

Zou, Liwei; Wang, Longsheng; Gong, Xijun; Zhao, Hong; Jiang, Anhong; Zheng, Suisheng

2014-02-01

To assess the relationship of the Interleukin-10 (IL-10) -1082G/A (rs1800896), -819C/T (rs1800871) and -592C/A (rs1800872) polymorphism with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) by means of meta-analysis. Published data addressing the association between polymorphism of the IL-10 with Crohn's disease (CD) and Ulcerative colitis (UC) were selected from electronic databases. A total of 17 studies including 4132 cases and 5109 controls were included in this meta-analysis which detected whether -1082G/A, -819C/T and -592C/A polymorphism were associated with CD or UC susceptibility. The IL-10 -819C/T and -519C/A variant allele observed a significant association with UC (OR 1.16, 95%CI 1.03-1.31 and OR 1.19, 95%CI 1.03-1.38) not CD while there is no significant association between -1082G/A and UC or CD. The IL-10 -819C/T and -592C/A polymorphisms contribute to susceptibility to UC, but IL-10 -1082G/A polymorphism neither associated with CD nor UC.

Second Korean guidelines for the management of ulcerative colitis

PubMed Central

Choi, Chang Hwan; Moon, Won; Kim, You Sun; Kim, Eun Soo; Lee, Bo-In; Jung, Yunho; Yoon, Yong Sik; Lee, Heeyoung; Park, Dong Il

2017-01-01

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease characterized by a relapsing and remitting course. The direct and indirect costs of the treatment of UC are high, and the quality of life of patients is reduced, especially during exacerbation of the disease. The incidence and prevalence of UC in Korea are still lower than those of Western countries, but have been rapidly increasing during the past decades. Various medical and surgical therapies, including biologics, are currently used for the management of UC. However, many challenging issues exist, which sometimes lead to differences in practice between clinicians. Therefore, the IBD study group of the Korean Association for the Study of Intestinal Diseases established the first Korean guidelines for the management of UC in 2012. This is an update of the first guidelines. It was generally made by the adaptation of several foreign guidelines as was the first edition, and encompasses treatment of active colitis, maintenance of remission, and indication of surgery for UC. The specific recommendations are presented with the quality of evidence and classification of recommendations. PMID:28239313

“Mucosal healing” in ulcerative colitis: Between clinical evidence and market suggestion

PubMed Central

Pagnini, Cristiano; Menasci, Francesca; Festa, Stefano; Rizzatti, Gianenrico; Fave, Gianfranco Delle

2014-01-01

In recent decades, the prominent role of endoscopy in the management of ulcerative colitis (UC) has been translated into the concept of mucosal healing (MH) as a fundamental therapeutic end-point. This is partially the consequence of growing evidence of a positive prognostic role of MH on the disease course and partially due to market cues indicating a higher rate of MH in patients treated by novel potent biologic agents. The aim of the present review is to clarify the current knowledge of MH in UC, analyzing the definition, the putative prognostic role and the association of MH with the current drugs used to treat UC patients. Because solid data about the management of UC patients based solely on the healing of the mucosa are not yet available, a tailored approach for individual patients thatconsiders the natural history of UC and the presence of prognostic indicators of aggressive disease is desirable. Consequently, unnecessary examinations and treatment would be avoided and restricted to UC patients who require the maximum amount of effort to affect the disease course in the short and long term. PMID:24891976

40 CFR 424.50 - Applicability; description of the other calcium carbide furnaces subcategory.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... calcium carbide furnaces subcategory. 424.50 Section 424.50 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL... CATEGORY Other Calcium Carbide Furnaces Subcategory § 424.50 Applicability; description of the other calcium carbide furnaces subcategory. The provisions of this subpart are applicable to discharges...

40 CFR 424.50 - Applicability; description of the other calcium carbide furnaces subcategory.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... calcium carbide furnaces subcategory. 424.50 Section 424.50 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL... CATEGORY Other Calcium Carbide Furnaces Subcategory § 424.50 Applicability; description of the other calcium carbide furnaces subcategory. The provisions of this subpart are applicable to discharges...

40 CFR 424.50 - Applicability; description of the other calcium carbide furnaces subcategory.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... calcium carbide furnaces subcategory. 424.50 Section 424.50 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL... CATEGORY Other Calcium Carbide Furnaces Subcategory § 424.50 Applicability; description of the other calcium carbide furnaces subcategory. The provisions of this subpart are applicable to discharges...

40 CFR 424.50 - Applicability; description of the other calcium carbide furnaces subcategory.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... calcium carbide furnaces subcategory. 424.50 Section 424.50 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL... CATEGORY Other Calcium Carbide Furnaces Subcategory § 424.50 Applicability; description of the other calcium carbide furnaces subcategory. The provisions of this subpart are applicable to discharges...

Amplified Photon Upconversion by Photonic Shell of Cholesteric Liquid Crystals.

PubMed

Kang, Ji-Hwan; Kim, Shin-Hyun; Fernandez-Nieves, Alberto; Reichmanis, Elsa

2017-04-26

As an effective platform to exploit triplet-triplet-annihilation-based photon upconversion (TTA-UC), microcapsules composed of a fluidic UC core and photonic shell are microfluidically prepared using a triple emulsion as the template. The photonic shell consists of cholesteric liquid crystals (CLCs) with a periodic helical structure, exhibiting a photonic band gap. Combined with planar anchoring at the boundaries, the shell serves as a resonance cavity for TTA-UC emission and enables spectral tuning of the UC under low-power-density excitation. The CLC shell can be stabilized by introducing a polymerizable mesogen in the LC host. Because of the microcapsule spherical symmetry, spontaneous emission of the delayed fluorescence is omnidirectionally amplified at the edge of the stop band. These results demonstrate the range of opportunities provided by TTA-UC systems for the future design of low-threshold photonic devices.

Method for homogenizing alloys susceptible to the formation of carbide stringers and alloys prepared thereby

DOEpatents

Braski, David N.; Leitnaker, James M.

1980-01-01

A novel fabrication procedure prevents or eliminates the reprecipitation of segregated metal carbides such as stringers in Ti-modified Hastelloy N and stainless steels to provide a novel alloy having carbides uniformly dispersed throughout the matrix. The fabrication procedure is applicable to other alloys prone to the formation of carbide stringers. The process comprises first annealing the alloy at a temperature above the single phase temperature for sufficient time to completely dissolve carbides and then annealing the single phase alloy for an additional time to prevent the formation of carbide stringers upon subsequent aging or thermomechanical treatment.

Anisotropic Tribological Properties of Silicon Carbide

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miyoshi, K.; Buckley, D. H.

1980-01-01

The anisotropic friction, deformation and fracture behavior of single crystal silicon carbide surfaces were investigated in two categories. The categories were called adhesive and abrasive wear processes, respectively. In the adhesive wear process, the adhesion, friction and wear of silicon carbide were markedly dependent on crystallographic orientation. The force to reestablish the shearing fracture of adhesive bond at the interface between silicon carbide and metal was the lowest in the preferred orientation of silicon carbide slip system. The fracturing of silicon carbide occurred near the adhesive bond to metal and it was due to primary cleavages of both prismatic (10(-1)0) and basal (0001) planes.

Umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells reversed the suppressive deficiency of T regulatory cells from peripheral blood of patients with multiple sclerosis in a co-culture – a preliminary study

PubMed Central

Yang, Hongna; Sun, Jinhua; Wang, Feng; Li, Yan; Bi, Jianzhong; Qu, Tingyu

2016-01-01

The immunoregulatory function of T regulatory cells (Tregs) is impaired in multiple sclerosis (MS). Recent studies have shown that umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs) exert regulatory effect on the functions of immune cells. Thus, we investigated whether UC-MSCs could improve the impaired function of Tregs from MS patients. Co-cultures of UC-MSCs with PBMCs of MS patients were performed for 3 days. Flow cytometry was used to determine the frequency of Tregs. A cell proliferation assay was used to evaluate the suppressive capacity of Tregs. ELISA was conducted for cytokine analysis in the co-cultures. Our results showed that UC-MSCs significantly increased the frequency of CD4+CD25+CD127low/− Tregs in resting CD4+ T cells (p<0.01) from MS, accompanied by the significantly augmented production of cytokine prostaglandin E2, transforming growth factor (−β1, and interleukin-10, along with a reduced interferon-γ production in these co-cultures (p<0.05 - 0.01). More importantly, UC-MSC-primed Tregs of MS patients significantly inhibited the proliferation of PHA-stimulated autologous and allogeneic CD4+CD25− T effector cells (Teffs) from MS patients and healthy individuals compared to non-UC-MSC-primed (naïve) Tregs from the same MS patients (p<0.01). Furthermore, no remarkable differences in suppressing the proliferation of PHA-stimulated CD4+CD25− Teffs was observed in UC-MSC-primed Tregs from MS patients and naïve Tregs from healthy subjects. The impaired suppressive function of Tregs from MS can be completely reversed in a co-culture by UC-MSC modulation. This report is the first to demonstrate that functional defects of Tregs in MS can be repaired in vitro using a simple UC-MSC priming approach. PMID:27705922

Differential effects of α4β7 and GPR15 on homing of effector and regulatory T cells from patients with UC to the inflamed gut in vivo.

PubMed

Fischer, Anika; Zundler, Sebastian; Atreya, Raja; Rath, Timo; Voskens, Caroline; Hirschmann, Simon; López-Posadas, Rocío; Watson, Alastair; Becker, Christoph; Schuler, Gerold; Neufert, Clemens; Atreya, Imke; Neurath, Markus F

2016-10-01

Gut homing of lymphocytes via adhesion molecules has recently emerged as new target for therapy in IBDs. We aimed to analyse the in vivo homing of effector (Teff) and regulatory (Treg) T cells to the inflamed gut via α4β7 and G protein receptor GPR15. We assessed the expression of homing receptors on T cells in peripheral blood and inflamed mucosa. We studied the migration pattern and homing of Teff and Treg cells to the inflamed gut using intravital confocal microscopy and FACS in a humanised mouse model in dextran sodium sulfate-treated NSG (NOD.Cg-Prkdcscid-Il2rgtm1Wjl/SzJ) mice. Expression of GPR15 and α4β7 was significantly increased on Treg rather than Teff cells in peripheral blood of patients with UC as compared with Crohn's disease and controls. In vivo analysis in a humanised mouse model showed augmented gut homing of UC Treg cells as compared with controls. Moreover, suppression of UC (but not control) Teff and Treg cell homing was noted upon treatment with the α4β7 antibody vedolizumab. In contrast, siRNA blockade of GPR15 had only effects on homing of Teff cells but did not affect Treg homing in UC. Clinical vedolizumab treatment was associated with marked expansion of UC Treg cells in peripheral blood. α4β7 rather than GPR15 is crucial for increased colonic homing of UC Treg cells in vivo, while both receptors control UC Teff cell homing. Vedolizumab treatment impairs homing of UC Treg cells leading to their accumulation in peripheral blood with subsequent suppression of systemic Teff cell expansion. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/

Assessment of hydration process and mechanical properties of cemented paste backfill by electrical resistivity measurement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Wenbin; Tian, Xichun; Cao, Peiwang

2018-04-01

Cemented paste backfill (CPB) is an emerging mine backfill technique that allows environmentally hazardous tailings to return to the underground openings or stopes, thereby maximising the safety, efficiency and productivity of operation. Uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) is one of the most commonly used parameters for evaluating the mechanical performance of CPB; the prediction of the UCS of CPB structures from early to advanced ages is of great practical importance. This study aims to investigate the predictability of the UCS of CPB during the hydration process based on electrical resistivity (ER) measurement. For this purpose, the samples prepared at different cement-to-tailing ratios and solid contents were subjected to the ER test during the whole hydration process and UCS tests at 3, 7, 28 days of curing periods. The effect of cement-to-tailing ratio and solid content on the ER and UCS of CPB samples was obtained; the UCS values were correlated with the corresponding ER data. Microstructural analysis was also performed on CPB samples to understand the effect of microstructure on the ER data. The result shows that the ER of CPB decreases first and then increases with the speed which is faster in the previous part than the latter. The ER and UCS of CPB samples increased with increasing cement-to-tailing ratio and solid content and curing periods. A logarithmic relationship is established for each mixture in order to predict the UCS of CPB based on ER. Scanning electron microscope analyses have revealed that the microstructure of the CPB changes with the age from the initial floc to honeycomb, and eventually to the compact clumps. The ER properties of CPB samples were highly associated with their respective microstructural properties. The major output of this study is that ER test is effectively capable for a preliminary prediction of the UCS of CPB.

The Expenditures for Academic Inpatient Care of Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients Are Almost Double Compared with Average Academic Gastroenterology and Hepatology Cases and Not Fully Recovered by Diagnosis-Related Group (DRG) Proceeds

PubMed Central

Baumgart, Daniel C.; le Claire, Marie

2016-01-01

Background Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) challenge economies worldwide. Detailed health economic data of DRG based academic inpatient care for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients in Europe is unavailable. Methods IBD was identified through ICD-10 K50 and K51 code groups. We took an actual costing approach, compared expenditures to G-DRG and non-DRG proceeds and performed detailed cost center and type accounting to identify coverage determinants. Results Of all 3093 hospitalized cases at our department, 164 were CD and 157 UC inpatients in 2012. On average, they were 44.1 (CD 44.9 UC 43.3 all 58) years old, stayed 10.1 (CD 11.8 UC 8.4 vs. all 8) days, carried 5.8 (CD 6.4 UC 5.2 vs. all 6.8) secondary diagnoses, received 7.4 (CD 7.7 UC 7 vs. all 6.2) procedures, had a higher cost weight (CD 2.8 UC 2.4 vs. all 1.6) and required more intense nursing. Their care was more costly (means: total cost IBD 8477€ CD 9051€ UC 7903€ vs. all 5078€). However, expenditures were not fully recovered by DRG proceeds (means: IBD 7413€, CD 8441€, UC 6384€ vs all 4758€). We discovered substantial disease specific mismatches in cost centers and types and identified the medical ward personnel and materials budgets to be most imbalanced. Non-DRG proceeds were almost double (IBD 16.1% vs. all 8.2%), but did not balance deficits at total coverage analysis, that found medications (antimicrobials, biologics and blood products), medical materials (mostly endoscopy items) to contribute most to the deficit. Conclusions DRGs challenge sophisticated IBD care. PMID:26784027

Balance of CD8+ CD28+ / CD8+ CD28- T lymphocytes is vital for patients with ulcerative colitis.

PubMed

Dai, Shi-Xue; Wu, Gang; Zou, Ying; Feng, Yan-Ling; Liu, Hong-Bo; Feng, Jin-Shan; Chi, Hong-Gang; Lv, Ru-Xi; Zheng, Xue-Bao

2013-01-01

Immune balances are important for many diseases including ulcerative colitis (UC). This study aimed to explore the role of the balance between CD8+ CD28+ and CD8+ CD28- T lymphocytes for the immunological pathogenesis of UC. Sixteen patients with UC, 16 patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and 15 healthy volunteers were enrolled. The frequencies of CD8+ CD28+ and CD8+CD28- T lymphocytes in peripheral blood and colon tissue were tested using flow cytometry and immunofluorescent, respectively. The cytokines of the two lymphocytes were detected by protein chips and ELISA. The expression of the signal transducers, the JAK3 and STAT6, as well the transcription factors, the NFATc2 and GATA3, was all detected by both western blot and immunohistochemistry. For UC patients, the frequencies of CD8+ CD28+ T lymphocytes, together with the ratios of CD8+ CD28+ / CD8+ CD28- T lymphocytes in blood and colon tissue, were significantly lower than those in both IBS patients and healthy volunteers. But the frequencies of CD8+ CD28- T lymphocytes in blood and colon tissue of the UC patients were significantly higher than the other two groups. The concentration of IL-7 and -13, and the expression of JAK3 and STAT6 in UC patients, were significantly lower when compared with the other two groups. Conversely, the concentration of IL-12p40 and -15, and the expression of GATA3 and NFATc2 in UC patients, were significantly higher than both IBS and control group. The balance of CD8+ CD28+ / CD8+ CD28- T lymphocytes plays a vital role in UC, while the balance tilt towards CD8+ CD28+ T lymphocytes is beneficial for patients with UC.

Semi-Individualized Homeopathy Add-On Versus Usual Care Only for Premenstrual Disorders: A Randomized, Controlled Feasibility Study.

PubMed

Klein-Laansma, Christien T; Jong, Mats; von Hagens, Cornelia; Jansen, Jean Pierre C H; van Wietmarschen, Herman; Jong, Miek C

2018-03-22

Premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMS/PMDD) bother a substantial number of women. Homeopathy seems a promising treatment, but it needs investigation using reliable study designs. The feasibility of organizing an international randomized pragmatic trial on a homeopathic add-on treatment (usual care [UC] + HT) compared with UC alone was evaluated. A multicenter, randomized, controlled pragmatic trial with parallel groups. The study was organized in general and private homeopathic practices in the Netherlands and Sweden and in an outpatient university clinic in Germany. Women diagnosed as having PMS/PMDD, based on prospective daily rating by the daily record of severity of problems (DRSP) during a period of 2 months, were included and randomized. Women were to receive UC + HT or UC for 4 months. Homeopathic medicine selection was according to a previously tested prognostic questionnaire and electronic algorithm. Usual care was as provided by the women's general practitioner according to their preferences. Before and after treatment, the women completed diaries (DRSP), the measure yourself concerns and well-being, and other questionnaires. Intention-to-treat (ITT) and per protocol (PP) analyses were performed. In Germany, the study could not proceed because of legal limitations. In Sweden, recruitment proved extremely difficult. In the Netherlands and Sweden, 60 women were randomized (UC + HT: 28; UC: 32), data of 47/46 women were analyzed (ITT/PP). After 4 months, relative mean change of DRSP scores in the UC + HT group was significantly better than in the UC group (p = 0.03). With respect to recruitment and different legal status, it does not seem feasible to perform a larger, international, pragmatic randomized trial on (semi-)individualized homeopathy for PMS/PMDD. Since the added value of HT compared with UC was demonstrated by significant differences in symptom score changes, further studies are warranted.

Costs of ulcerative colitis from a societal perspective in a regional health care area in Spain: A database study.

PubMed

Aldeguer, Xavier; Sicras-Mainar, Antoni

2016-01-01

To estimate the management of UC associated costs from the societal perspective in Spain. Observational, longitudinal study with retrospective data collection based on reviews of outpatient health records. Socio-demographic, clinical and sick leave information was gathered. Patients diagnosed of UC between 2002 and 2012, older than 18 years, followed-up by a minimum of 12 months post diagnosis, with at least two clinical and use of resources data recorded, were included. 285 UC patients [51.2% men; 44.5 (SD: 15.6) years old; 88.4% without family history of UC; 39.3% proctitis; 5.6 (2.5) years disease follow-up] participated. More than half (65.6%) were active workers, 75.9% were on sick leave for reasons different from UC [mean 0.66 (0.70) times per year] during (mean) 28.43 (34.45) days. Only 64 patients were on UC-related sick-leaves, lasting (mean) 26.17 (37.43) days. Absenteeism due to medical visits caused loss of 29.55 (21.38) working hours per year. Mean direct and indirect annual cost per UC patient were €1754.10 (95%CI: 1473.37-2034.83) and €399.32 (282.31-422.69), respectively. Absenteeism was estimated at €88.21(32.72-50.06) per patient per year, in which sick-leaves were the main component of indirect costs (88.2%). Age, UC family history, diarrhea at diagnosis, blood and blood-forming organs diseases and psychological disorders were the main predictors of indirect costs. UC is a costly disease for the society and the Spanish National Healthcare System. Indirect costs imply a major burden by affecting the most productive years of patients. Further research is needed considering all components of productivity loss, including presenteeism-associated costs. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier España, S.L.U. and AEEH y AEG. All rights reserved.

Interleukin 1 β (IL-1B) and IL-1 antagonist receptor (IL-1RN) gene polymorphisms are associated with the genetic susceptibility and steroid dependence in patients with ulcerative colitis.

PubMed

Yamamoto-Furusho, Jesús K; Santiago-Hernández, Jean J; Pérez-Hernández, Nonanzit; Ramírez-Fuentes, Silvestre; Fragoso, José Manuel; Vargas-Alarcón, Gilberto

2011-07-01

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory bowel disease of unknown etiology. Among cytokines induced in UC, interleukin 1 antagonist (IL-1ra) and interleukin 1 β (IL-1β) seems to have a central role because of its immunoregulatory and proinflammatory activities. To determine the association between IL-1RA and IL-1B gene polymorphisms and the clinical features of UC in the Mexican Mestizo population. Five polymorphisms in the IL-1 gene cluster members IL-1B (rs16944), IL1F10 (rs3811058), and IL-1RN (rs419598, rs315952, and rs315951) were genotyped by 5' exonuclease TaqMan genotyping assays in a group of 200 Mexican patients with UC and 248 ethnically matched unrelated healthy controls. We found a significant increased frequencies of IL-1RN6/1 TC (rs315952) and RN6/2 CC (rs315951) and decreased frequency of IL-1B-511 TC (rs16944) genotypes in UC patients as compared with healthy controls. In the subgroup analysis, we found a significant association between the RN6/2 GG (rs315951) and IL-1B-511 CC (rs16944) genotypes and the presence of steroid-dependence in UC patients (pC=00001, OR=15.6 and pC=0.008, OR=4.09, respectively). Patients with UC showed increased frequencies of IL-1RN "CTC" and "TCG" haplotypes when compared with healthy controls (P=0.019, OR=1.43 and P<10(-7), OR=2.63, respectively). Two haplotypes (TTG and CTG) showed decreased frequency in patients when compared with healthy controls (P=9×10(-7), OR=0.11 and P=8×10(-6), OR=0.11, respectively). IL-1 RN and IL-1B polymorphisms were associated with the genetic susceptibility to develop UC and might be associated with the presence of steroid-dependence in UC patients.

Association between osteoporosis and urinary calculus: evidence from a population-based study.

PubMed

Keller, J J; Lin, C-C; Kang, J-H; Lin, H-C

2013-02-01

This population-based case-control analysis investigated the association between osteoporosis and prior urinary calculus (UC) in Taiwan. We succeeded in detecting an association between osteoporosis and prior UC (adjusted odds ratio = 1.66). This association was consistent and significant regardless of stone location. UC has been demonstrated to be a risk factor for osteoporotic fractures, but no studies to date have directly investigated the association between UC and osteoporosis. This case-control analysis aimed to investigate the association of osteoporosis with prior UC using a population-based dataset in Taiwan. We first identified 39,840 cases ≥40 years who received their first-time diagnosis of osteoporosis between 2002 and 2009 and then randomly selected 79,680 controls. We used conditional logistic regression analyses to compute the odds ratio (OR) and the corresponding 95 % confidence interval (CI) for having been previously diagnosed with UC between cases and controls. The OR of having been previously diagnosed with UC for patients with osteoporosis was 1.66 (95 % CI = 1.59-1.73) when compared to controls after adjusting for geographic location, urbanization level, type I diabetes mellitus, coronary heart disease, hyperlipidemia, rheumatoid arthritis, stroke, renal disease, Parkinson's disease, hyperthyroidism, chronic hepatopathy, Cushing's syndrome, malabsorption, gastrectomy, obesity, and alcohol abuse/alcohol dependence syndrome. The results consistently showed that osteoporosis was significantly associated with a previous diagnosis of UC regardless of stone location; the adjusted ORs of prior kidney calculus, ureter calculus, bladder calculus, and unspecified calculus when compared to controls were 1.71 (95 % CI = 1.61-1.81), 1.60 (95 % CI = 1.47-1.74), 1.59 (95 % CI = 1.23-2.04), and 1.69 (95 % CI = 1.59-1.80), respectively. This study succeeded in detecting an association between osteoporosis and prior UC. In addition, our findings were consistent and significant regardless of stone location.

Mild-to-moderate ulcerative colitis: your role in patient compliance and health care costs.

PubMed

Tindall, William N; Boltri, John M; Wilhelm, Sheila M

2007-09-01

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic relapsing disease necessitating lifelong treatment. Most patients present with mild-to-moderate disease characterized by alternating periods of remission and clinical relapse. Continued disease progression and relapse of UC over time are associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer (CRC). To discuss the latest treatment options for mild-to-moderate UC, to review the current data involving the economics of UC, and to demonstrate the relationship between treatment adherence, clinical relapse, inflammation severity, CRC risk, and treatment outcomes. One of the main goals of therapy in UC is to induce and maintain a long-lasting remission of disease to reduce or avoid the high personal and financial costs of relapse. In recent studies, researchers have demonstrated a link between increased colonic inflammation and CRC risk, highlighting the importance of preventing relapse, which can lead to costly surgical procedures and hospital stays and thus increase the cost of treatment 2- to 20-fold. The risk of disease relapse is affected by several factors, of which the most prominent is nonadherence to maintenance therapy. Nonadherence to therapy can be associated with several other factors, including forgetfulness, male sex, complicated dosing regimens, treatment delivery methods (oral vs. rectal), and pill burden. In the treatment of mild-to-moderate UC, 5-aminosalicyclic acid (5-ASA) is the standard first-line therapy and the treatment of choice for maintaining remission of disease. Novel formulations of 5-ASA and newly devised high-dose 5-ASA regimens offer more options for the treatment of UC and thus may lead to improved treatment adherence, longer remission, and improved patient well-being. Periods of remission during UC treatment must be aggressively maintained to prevent relapse and decrease the risk of an unfavorable outcome. By controlling the risks and conditions that lead to therapeutic nonadherence and relapse among patients with UC, clinicians can increase the likelihood of long-term remission and ensure favorable long-term outcomes.

Genome-wide association analysis in primary sclerosing cholangitis and ulcerative colitis identifies risk loci at GPR35 and TCF4.

PubMed

Ellinghaus, David; Folseraas, Trine; Holm, Kristian; Ellinghaus, Eva; Melum, Espen; Balschun, Tobias; Laerdahl, Jon K; Shiryaev, Alexey; Gotthardt, Daniel N; Weismüller, Tobias J; Schramm, Christoph; Wittig, Michael; Bergquist, Annika; Björnsson, Einar; Marschall, Hanns-Ulrich; Vatn, Morten; Teufel, Andreas; Rust, Christian; Gieger, Christian; Wichmann, H-Erich; Runz, Heiko; Sterneck, Martina; Rupp, Christian; Braun, Felix; Weersma, Rinse K; Wijmenga, Cisca; Ponsioen, Cyriel Y; Mathew, Christopher G; Rutgeerts, Paul; Vermeire, Séverine; Schrumpf, Erik; Hov, Johannes R; Manns, Michael P; Boberg, Kirsten M; Schreiber, Stefan; Franke, Andre; Karlsen, Tom H

2013-09-01

Approximately 60%-80% of patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) have concurrent ulcerative colitis (UC). Previous genome-wide association studies (GWAS) in PSC have detected a number of susceptibility loci that also show associations in UC and other immune-mediated diseases. We aimed to systematically compare genetic associations in PSC with genotype data in UC patients with the aim of detecting new susceptibility loci for PSC. We performed combined analyses of GWAS for PSC and UC comprising 392 PSC cases, 987 UC cases, and 2,977 controls and followed up top association signals in an additional 1,012 PSC cases, 4,444 UC cases, and 11,659 controls. We discovered novel genome-wide significant associations with PSC at 2q37 [rs3749171 at G-protein-coupled receptor 35 (GPR35); P = 3.0 × 10(-9) in the overall study population, combined odds ratio [OR] and 95% confidence interval [CI] of 1.39 (1.24-1.55)] and at 18q21 [rs1452787 at transcription factor 4 (TCF4); P = 2.61 × 10(-8) , OR (95% CI) = 0.75 (0.68-0.83)]. In addition, several suggestive PSC associations were detected. The GPR35 rs3749171 is a missense single nucleotide polymorphism resulting in a shift from threonine to methionine. Structural modeling showed that rs3749171 is located in the third transmembrane helix of GPR35 and could possibly alter efficiency of signaling through the GPR35 receptor. By refining the analysis of a PSC GWAS by parallel assessments in a UC GWAS, we were able to detect two novel risk loci at genome-wide significance levels. GPR35 shows associations in both UC and PSC, whereas TCF4 represents a PSC risk locus not associated with UC. Both loci may represent previously unexplored aspects of PSC pathogenesis. Copyright © 2012 American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases.

40 CFR 424.50 - Applicability; description of the other calcium carbide furnaces subcategory.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... other calcium carbide furnaces subcategory. 424.50 Section 424.50 Protection of Environment... SOURCE CATEGORY Other Calcium Carbide Furnaces Subcategory § 424.50 Applicability; description of the other calcium carbide furnaces subcategory. The provisions of this subpart are applicable to discharges...

Cobalt Doping of Semiconducting Boron Carbide Using Cobaltocene

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-03-01

COBALT DOPING OF SEMICONDUCTING BORON CARBIDE USING COBALTOCENE THESIS Lonnie Carlson, Major...DOPING OF SEMICONDUCTING BORON CARBIDE USING COBALTOCENE THESIS Presented to the Faculty Department of Engineering Physics Graduate School...DISTRIBUTION UNLIMITED AFIT/GNE/ENP/07-01 COBALT DOPING OF SEMICONDUCTING BORON CARBIDE USING COBALTOCENE Lonnie

Role of microstructure in caustic stress corrosion cracking of Alloy 690

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

Mertz, D.A.; Duda, P.T.; Pica, P.N.

1995-12-31

Alloy 690 has been selected for nuclear heat transport system tubing application in recent commercial reactor plants due to its resistance to multiple types of corrosion attack. Typical corn final heat treatments for this material are a mill-anneal (MA, approximately 1,070 C) to completely dissolve the carbides and develop the final grain structure plus a thermal treatment (TT, approximately 700 C) to precipitate carbides at the grain boundaries. Tubing with grain boundary carbides and no or few intragranular carbides has been found resistant to intergranular stress corrosion cracking (IGSCC) in caustic environments. In this work, first, Alloy 690 plate wasmore » subjected to a variety of MA and MA-TT heat treatments to create microstructures of carbide-decorated grain boundaries and undecorated boundaries. Caustic IGSCC test results were consistent with tubing data. Second, experiments were conducted to understand the mechanism by which caustic-corrosion resistance is imparted to Alloy 690 by grain boundary carbides. Tubing with a fully-developed MA-TT carbide microstructure was strained and heat-treated to create a mixed microstructure of new grain boundaries with no carbide precipitate decoration, intermixed with intragranular carbide strings from prior grain boundaries. Caustic SCC performance of this material was identical to that of material with the MA-TT carbide-decorated grain boundaries. This work suggests that the fundamental cause of good IGSCC resistance of MA-TT Alloy 690 in caustic does not derive solely from grain boundary carbides. It is suggested that matrix strength, as measured by yield stress, could be a controlling factor.« less

Effect of Spheroidizing Annealing on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of High-Carbon Martensitic Stainless Steel 8Cr13MoV

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, Wen-Tao; Li, Jing; Shi, Cheng-Bin; Zhu, Qin-Tian

2017-02-01

The effects of holding time during both austenitizing and spheroidizing on microstructure and mechanical properties of high-carbon martensitic stainless steel 8Cr13MoV were experimentally studied. The results showed that the amount of carbides and the proportion of fine carbides decrease first and then increase with the increase in austenitizing time ( t 1) in the case of short spheroidizing time ( t 2), whereas the amount of the lamellar carbides increases. In the case of long t 2, both the amount of carbides and the proportion of fine carbides decrease, and the amount of the lamellar carbides did not increase. The hardness of the steel decreases first and then increases with the increase of t 1. Under the conditions of different t 1, the change in the size of carbides and hardness of the steel show a same trend with the variation of t 2. The size of spheroidized carbides increases, whereas the hardness of the steel decreases with increasing t 2. The longer the holding time of austenitizing, the higher is the spheroidizing rate at the earlier stage. However, the spheroidizing rate shows an opposite trend with t 1 at the later stage of spheroidizing. The effect of cooling rate on microstructure is similar with t 2. With increasing cooling rate, the dimension of carbides became smaller, and the amount of lamellar carbides increased. The elongation of the sample fracture exhibits no corresponding relationship with holding time, whereas it is closely related to the precipitation of secondary carbides caused by the alloying elements segregation.

Human mesenchymal stromal cell-secreted lactate induces M2-macrophage differentiation by metabolic reprogramming

PubMed Central

Civini, Sara; Pacelli, Consiglia; Dieng, Mame Massar; Lemieux, William; Jin, Ping; Bazin, Renée; Patey, Natacha; Marincola, Francesco M.; Moldovan, Florina; Zaouter, Charlotte; Trudeau, Louis-Eric; Benabdhalla, Basma; Louis, Isabelle; Beauséjour, Christian; Stroncek, David; Le Deist, Françoise; Haddad, Elie

2016-01-01

Human mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) have been shown to dampen immune response and promote tissue repair, but the underlying mechanisms are still under investigation. Herein, we demonstrate that umbilical cord-derived MSC (UC-MSC) alter the phenotype and function of monocyte-derived dendritic cells (DC) through lactate-mediated metabolic reprogramming. UC-MSC can secrete large quantities of lactate and, when present during monocyte-to-DC differentiation, induce instead the acquisition of M2-macrophage features in terms of morphology, surface markers, migratory properties and antigen presentation capacity. Microarray expression profiling indicates that UC-MSC modify the expression of metabolic-related genes and induce a M2-macrophage expression signature. Importantly, monocyte-derived DC obtained in presence of UC-MSC, polarize naïve allogeneic CD4+ T-cells into Th2 cells. Treatment of UC-MSC with an inhibitor of lactate dehydrogenase strongly decreases lactate concentration in culture supernatant and abrogates the effect on monocyte-to-DC differentiation. Metabolic analysis further revealed that UC-MSC decrease oxidative phosphorylation in differentiating monocytes while strongly increasing the spare respiratory capacity proportional to the amount of secreted lactate. Because both MSC and monocytes are recruited in vivo at the site of tissue damage and inflammation, we propose the local increase of lactate concentration induced by UC-MSC and the consequent enrichment in M2-macrophage generation as a mechanism to achieve immunomodulation. PMID:27070086

Characterization of Serum Cytokine Profile in Predominantly Colonic Inflammatory Bowel Disease to Delineate Ulcerative and Crohn’s Colitides

PubMed Central

Korolkova, Olga Y; Myers, Jeremy N; Pellom, Samuel T; Wang, Li; M’Koma, Amosy E

2015-01-01

BACKGROUND As accessible diagnostic approaches fail to differentiate between ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s colitis (CC) in one-third of patients with predominantly colonic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), leading to inappropriate therapy, we aim to investigate the serum cytokine levels in these patients in search of molecular biometric markers delineating UC from CC. METHODS We measured 38 cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors using magnetic-bead-based multiplex immunoassay in 25 UC patients, 28 CC patients, and 30 controls. Our results are compared with those from a review of current literature regarding advances in serum cytokine profiles and associated challenges preventing their use for diagnostic/prognostic purposes. RESULTS Univariate analysis showed statistically significant increases of eotaxin, GRO, and TNF-α in UC patients compared to controls (Ctrl); interferon γ, interleukin (IL)-6, and IL-7 in CC group compared to Ctrl; and IL-8 in both UC and CC versus Ctrl. No cytokines were found to be different between UC and CC. A generalized linear model identified combinations of cytokines, allowing the identification of UC and CC patients, with area under the curve (AUC) = 0.936, as determined with receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. CONCLUSIONS The current knowledge available about circulating cytokines in IBD is often contradictory. The development of an evidence-based tool using cytokines for diagnostic accuracy is still preliminary. PMID:26078592

Comparison of ultra-congruent mobile- and fixed-bearing navigation-assisted total knee arthroplasty with minimum 5-year follow-up.

PubMed

Kim, Seong Hwan; Lim, Jung-Won; Ko, Young-Bong; Song, Min-Gu; Lee, Han-Jun

2016-11-01

The purpose of this study was to compare the midterm outcomes between fixed and mobile ultra-congruent (UC) bearings in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). This is a retrospective matched-pairs case-control study of patients who underwent primary navigation-assisted TKA with a minimum 5-year follow-up. A total of 182 cases involved the fixed UC bearing system as Group 1 and 101 cases involved mobile UC bearing system group as Group 2. After 1:1 matching, 73 knees in each group were enrolled. Clinical and radiographic outcomes were evaluated. The overall survival was 143 of 146 cases (97.9 %) at final follow-up, and 72 of 73 cases (96.3 %) in Group 1 and 71 of 73 cases (95.8 %) in Group 2 at final follow-up based on an endpoint of revision surgery. The reasons of revision TKA were periprosthetic fracture in Group 1, infection and bearing dislocation in Group 2. There was no statistical difference in Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) scores, Knee Society Scores (KSS), WOMAC index score evaluations between groups. This study demonstrated that the fixed-bearing UC prosthesis could provide satisfactory performance compared with that of the mobile-bearing UC prosthesis with minimum 5-year follow-up. The fixed-bearing UC prosthesis could be considered in navigation-assisted TKA with theoretical advantages of UC design. IV.

Literature review of the energy sources for performing laparoscopic colorectal surgery

PubMed Central

Hotta, Tsukasa; Takifuji, Katsunari; Yokoyama, Shozo; Matsuda, Kenji; Higashiguchi, Takashi; Tominaga, Toshiji; Oku, Yoshimasa; Watanabe, Takashi; Nasu, Toru; Hashimoto, Tadamichi; Tamura, Koichi; Ieda, Junji; Yamamoto, Naoyuki; Iwamoto, Hiromitsu; Yamaue, Hiroki

2012-01-01

Laparoscopic surgery for colorectal disease has become widespread as a minimally invasive treatment. This is important because the increasing availability of new devices allows us to perform procedures with a reduced length of surgery and decreased blood loss. We herein report the results of a literature review of energy sources for laparoscopic colorectal surgery, focused especially on 6 studies comparing ultrasonic coagulating shears (UCS) and other instruments. We also describe our laparoscopic dissection techniques using UCS for colorectal cancer. The short-term outcomes of surgeries using UCS and Ligasure for laparoscopic colorectal surgery were superior to conventional electrosurgery. Some authors have reported that the length of surgery or blood loss when Ligasure was used for laparoscopic colorectal surgery is less than when UCS was used. On the other hand, a recent study demonstrated that there were no significant differences between the short-term outcomes of UCS and Ligasure for laparoscopic colorectal surgery. It is therefore suggested that the choice of technique used should be made according to the surgeon’s preference. We also describe our laparoscopic dissection techniques using UCS (Harmonic ACE) for colorectal cancer with regard to the retroperitoneum dissection, dissection technique, dissection technique around the feeding artery, and various other dissection techniques. We therefore review the outcomes of using various energy sources for laparoscopic colorectal surgery and describe our laparoscopic dissection techniques with UCS (Harmonic ACE) for colorectal cancer. PMID:22347536

Role of isoenzyme M2 of pyruvate kinase in urothelial tumorigenesis

PubMed Central

Liu, Yan; He, Feng; Zhang, Fenglin; Huang, Kuo-How; Wu, Xue-Ru

2016-01-01

The conversion of precancerous lesions to full-fledged cancers requires the affected cells to surpass certain rate-limiting steps. We recently showed that activation of HRAS proto-oncogene in urothelial cells of transgenic mice causes simple urothelial hyperplasia (SUH) which is persistent and whose transition to low-grade papillary urothelial carcinoma (UC) must undergo nodular urothelial hyperplasia (NUH). We hypothesized that NUH, which has acquired fibrovascular cores, plays critical roles in mesenchymal-to-epithelial signaling, breaching the barriers of urothelial tumor initiation. Using proteomics involving two-dimensional gel electrophoresis, immunoblotting with pan-phosphotyrosine antibody and MALDI-mass spectrometry, we identified isoform 2 of pyruvate kinase (PKM2) as the major tyrosine-phosphorylated protein switched on during NUH. We extended this finding using specimens from transgenic mice, human UC and UC cell lines, establishing that PKM2, but not its spliced variant PKM1, was over-expressed in low-grade and, more prominently, high-grade UC. In muscle-invasive UC, PKM2 was co-localized with cytokeratins 5 and 14, UC progenitor markers. Specific inhibition of PKM2 by siRNA or shRNA suppressed UC cell proliferation via increased apoptosis, autophagy and unfolded protein response. These results strongly suggest that PKM2 plays an important role in the genesis of low-grade non-invasive and high-grade invasive urothelial carcinomas. PMID:26992222

46 CFR 54.25-10 - Low temperature operation-ferritic steels (replaces UCS-65 through UCS-67).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... the following additional requirements: Note: For high alloy steels refer to § 54.25-15. For heat... tempered steels. The ultimate and yield strengths shall be as shown in the applicable specification and... 46 Shipping 2 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Low temperature operation-ferritic steels (replaces UCS...

46 CFR 54.25-10 - Low temperature operation-ferritic steels (replaces UCS-65 through UCS-67).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... the following additional requirements: Note: For high alloy steels refer to § 54.25-15. For heat... tempered steels. The ultimate and yield strengths shall be as shown in the applicable specification and... 46 Shipping 2 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Low temperature operation-ferritic steels (replaces UCS...

46 CFR 54.25-10 - Low temperature operation-ferritic steels (replaces UCS-65 through UCS-67).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... the following additional requirements: Note: For high alloy steels refer to § 54.25-15. For heat... tempered steels. The ultimate and yield strengths shall be as shown in the applicable specification and... 46 Shipping 2 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Low temperature operation-ferritic steels (replaces UCS...

Methods for producing silicon carbide fibers

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

Garnier, John E.; Griffith, George W.

Methods of producing silicon carbide fibers. The method comprises reacting a continuous carbon fiber material and a silicon-containing gas in a reaction chamber at a temperature ranging from approximately 1500.degree. C. to approximately 2000.degree. C. A partial pressure of oxygen in the reaction chamber is maintained at less than approximately 1.01.times.10.sup.2 Pascal to produce continuous alpha silicon carbide fibers. Continuous alpha silicon carbide fibers and articles formed from the continuous alpha silicon carbide fibers are also disclosed.

Tunable carbon nanotube-tungsten carbide nanoparticles heterostructures by vapor deposition

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

Xia, Min; Guo, Hongyan; Ge, Changchun

2014-05-14

A simple, versatile route for the synthesis of carbon nanotube (CNT)-tungsten carbide nanoparticles heterostructures was set up via vapor deposition process. For the first time, amorphous CNTs (α-CNTs) were used to immobilized tungsten carbide nanoparticles. By adjusting the synthesis and annealing temperature, α-CNTs/amorphous tungsten carbide, α-CNTs/W{sub 2}C, and CNTs/W{sub 2}C/WC heterostructures were prepared. This approach provides an efficient method to attach other metal carbides and other nanoparticles to carbon nanotubes with tunable properties.

Silicon carbide fibers and articles including same

DOEpatents

Garnier, John E; Griffith, George W

2015-01-27

Methods of producing silicon carbide fibers. The method comprises reacting a continuous carbon fiber material and a silicon-containing gas in a reaction chamber at a temperature ranging from approximately 1500.degree. C. to approximately 2000.degree. C. A partial pressure of oxygen in the reaction chamber is maintained at less than approximately 1.01.times.10.sup.2 Pascal to produce continuous alpha silicon carbide fibers. Continuous alpha silicon carbide fibers and articles formed from the continuous alpha silicon carbide fibers are also disclosed.

Method of joining ceramics

DOEpatents

Henager, Jr., Charles H.; Brimhall, John L.

2000-01-01

According to the method of the present invention, joining a first bi-element carbide to a second bi-element carbide, has the steps of: (a) forming a bond agent containing a metal carbide and silicon; (b) placing the bond agent between the first and second bi-element carbides to form a pre-assembly; and (c) pressing and heating the pre-assembly in a non-oxidizing atmosphere to a temperature effective to induce a displacement reaction creating a metal silicon phase bonding the first and second bi-element carbides.

Low-temperature electrical resistivity of transition-metal carbides

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Allison, C. Y.; Finch, C. B.; Foegelle, M. D.; Modine, F. A.

1988-10-01

The electrical resistivities of single crystals of ZrC 0.93, VC 0.88, NbC 0.95, and TaC 0.99 were measured from liquid helium temperature to 350 K. The Bloch-Gruneisen theory of electrical resistivity gives a good fit to the zirconium carbide and the vanadium carbide measurements. In contrast, the resistivities of the two superconducting crystals, tantalum carbide and niobium carbide, show excellent agreement with the Wilson model. The appropriate model appears to depend upon the superconducting properties of the crystals.

Chemical state of fission products in irradiated uranium carbide fuel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arai, Yasuo; Iwai, Takashi; Ohmichi, Toshihiko

1987-12-01

The chemical state of fission products in irradiated uranium carbide fuel has been estimated by equilibrium calculation using the SOLGASMIX-PV program. Solid state fission products are distributed to the fuel matrix, ternary compounds, carbides of fission products and intermetallic compounds among the condensed phases appearing in the irradiated uranium carbide fuel. The chemical forms are influenced by burnup as well as stoichiometry of the fuel. The results of the present study almost agree with the experimental ones reported for burnup simulated carbides.

Dilatometry Analysis of Dissolution of Cr-Rich Carbides in Martensitic Stainless Steels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Qiuliang; Volkova, Olena; Biermann, Horst; Mola, Javad

2017-12-01

The dissolution of Cr-rich carbides formed in the martensitic constituent of a 13 pct Cr stainless steel was studied by dilatometry and correlative electron channeling contrast examinations. The dissolution of carbides subsequent to the martensite reversion to austenite was associated with a net volume expansion which in turn increased the dilatometry-based apparent coefficient of thermal expansion (CTEa) during continuous heating. The effects of carbides fraction and size on the CTEa variations during carbides dissolution are discussed.

Safety and Efficacy of the Intravenous Infusion of Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Patients With Heart Failure: A Phase 1/2 Randomized Controlled Trial (RIMECARD Trial [Randomized Clinical Trial of Intravenous Infusion Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells on Cardiopathy]).

PubMed

Bartolucci, Jorge; Verdugo, Fernando J; González, Paz L; Larrea, Ricardo E; Abarzua, Ema; Goset, Carlos; Rojo, Pamela; Palma, Ivan; Lamich, Ruben; Pedreros, Pablo A; Valdivia, Gloria; Lopez, Valentina M; Nazzal, Carolina; Alcayaga-Miranda, Francisca; Cuenca, Jimena; Brobeck, Matthew J; Patel, Amit N; Figueroa, Fernando E; Khoury, Maroun

2017-10-27

Umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSC) are easily accessible and expanded in vitro, possess distinct properties, and improve myocardial remodeling and function in experimental models of cardiovascular disease. Although bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells have been previously assessed for their therapeutic potential in individuals with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction, no clinical trial has evaluated intravenous infusion of UC-MSCs in these patients. Evaluate the safety and efficacy of the intravenous infusion of UC-MSC in patients with chronic stable heart failure and reduced ejection fraction. Patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction under optimal medical treatment were randomized to intravenous infusion of allogenic UC-MSCs (Cellistem, Cells for Cells S.A., Santiago, Chile; 1×10 6 cells/kg) or placebo (n=15 per group). UC-MSCs in vitro, compared with bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells, displayed a 55-fold increase in the expression of hepatocyte growth factor, known to be involved in myogenesis, cell migration, and immunoregulation. UC-MSC-treated patients presented no adverse events related to the cell infusion, and none of the patients tested at 0, 15, and 90 days presented alloantibodies to the UC-MSCs (n=7). Only the UC-MSC-treated group exhibited significant improvements in left ventricular ejection fraction at 3, 6, and 12 months of follow-up assessed both through transthoracic echocardiography ( P =0.0167 versus baseline) and cardiac MRI ( P =0.025 versus baseline). Echocardiographic left ventricular ejection fraction change from baseline to month 12 differed significantly between groups (+7.07±6.22% versus +1.85±5.60%; P =0.028). In addition, at all follow-up time points, UC-MSC-treated patients displayed improvements of New York Heart Association functional class ( P =0.0167 versus baseline) and Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire ( P <0.05 versus baseline). At study completion, groups did not differ in mortality, heart failure admissions, arrhythmias, or incident malignancy. Intravenous infusion of UC-MSC was safe in this group of patients with stable heart failure and reduced ejection fraction under optimal medical treatment. Improvements in left ventricular function, functional status, and quality of life were observed in patients treated with UC-MSCs. URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01739777. Unique identifier: NCT01739777. © 2017 The Authors.

Usefulness of rectally administering [1-(13)C]-butyrate for breath test in patients with active and quiescent ulcerative colitis.

PubMed

Kato, Kimitoshi; Ishii, Yukimoto; Mizuno, Shigeaki; Sugitani, Masahiko; Asai, Satoshi; Kohno, Tadashi; Takahashi, Katsuyuki; Komuro, Sachiko; Iwamoto, Maho; Miyamoto, Shunpachi; Takayama, Tadatoshi; Arakawa, Yasuyuki

2007-02-01

Impaired butyrate metabolism plays a part in ulcerative colitis (UC). To assess the usefulness of measuring butyrate metabolism as an indication of inflammatory activity, we investigated the rate of butyrate metabolism by breath test after administering [1-(13)C]-butyrate rectally to patients with UC. Thirty-eight UC patients (22 active, 16 quiescent) and 15 healthy controls were given [1-(13)C]-butyrate enemas. The (13)CO2 production rate was measured by breath test using an infrared spectrometric analyzer. The quantity of expired (13)CO2 was significantly lower in the active than in the quiescent UC and control groups. Cumulative (13)CO2 production at 240 min showed significant negative correlations with the clinical activity index (r=-0.65, p<0.0001), endoscopic activity index (r=-0.63, p=0.0001) and histology (r=-0.71, p<0.0001) in the active UC group. The (13)CO2 production rate was significantly increased in the quiescent stage as compared with the active stage in six UC patients, in whom clinical remission was achieved, in accordance with improvements in the clinical activity index, the endoscopic activity index, histology and fecal butyrate concentrations. Significant inverse correlations between the cumulative (13)CO2 production rate and these three parameters were seen in these six UC patients assessed in both the active and quiescent stages. Measurement of expired (13)CO2 after rectally administering [1-(13)C]-butyrate in active and quiescent UC appears to be a promising and reliable method for evaluating disease activity and metabolic changes associated with amelioration of inflammation.

Internet-orientated Assessment of QOL and Actual Treatment Status in Japanese Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease: The 3I survey.

PubMed

Matsumoto, Takayuki; Yanai, Shunichi; Toya, Yosuke; Ueno, Masato; Nakamura, Shotaro

2015-06-01

This survey aimed to compare actual lifestyle factors and QOL between Japanese IBD patients and healthy Japanese controls, by questionnaire using an internet-web system. Through the internet-web system, we asked 464 patients with Crohn's disease [CD], 360 patients with ulcerative colitis [UC], and 4100 healthy controls to answer a questionnaire including an eight-item short-form health survey [SF-8]. The survey was conducted until data had been accumulated from the predetermined numbers of patients [120 patients each with CD and UC] and healthy controls [240 subjects]. QOL assessment by SF-8 revealed scores for six of the eight subscale items and the summary score for the mental component to be significantly lower in the CD and UC groups than in controls. There was a significant negative correlation between each SF-8 score and the degree of CD and UC symptoms. The marriage rate in adult patients was significantly lower in the CD than in the UC group or the controls. The mean annual income and the employment rate were significantly lower in the CD than in the UC group or the controls. CD patients receiving biologicals were more frequently satisfied with the efficacy of treatment than UC patients were with their treatment regimens [56% vs 29%]. Actual lifestyle factors and QOL appear to be impaired in Japanese patients with IBD, especially those with CD. The subjective efficacy of biologicals might be greater in CD than in UC. Copyright © 2015 European Crohn’s and Colitis Organisation (ECCO). Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Carbohydrate Intake in the Etiology of Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis

PubMed Central

Luben, Robert; van Schaik, Fiona; Oldenburg, Bas; Bueno-de-Mesquita, H. Bas; Hallmans, Göran; Karling, Pontus; Lindgren, Stefan; Grip, Olof; Key, Timothy; Crowe, Francesca L.; Bergmann, Manuela M.; Overvad, Kim; Palli, Domenico; Masala, Giovanna; Khaw, Kay-Tee; Racine, Antoine; Carbonnel, Franck; Boutron-Ruault, Marie-Christine; Olsen, Anja; Tjonneland, Anne; Kaaks, Rudolf; Tumino, Rosario; Trichopoulou, Antonia; Hart, Andrew R.

2014-01-01

Background: Diet may have a role in the etiology of inflammatory bowel disease. In previous studies, the associations between increased intakes of carbohydrates, sugar, starch, and inflammatory bowel disease are inconsistent. However, few prospective studies have investigated the associations between these macronutrients and incident Crohn's disease (CD) or ulcerative colitis (UC). Methods: A total of 401,326 men and women were recruited between 1991 and 1998. At recruitment, dietary intakes of carbohydrate, sugar, and starch were measured using validated food frequency questionnaires. The cohort was monitored identifying participants who developed incident CD or UC. Cases were matched with 4 controls, and odds ratios were calculated for quintiles of total carbohydrate, sugar, and starch intakes adjusted for total energy intake, body mass index, and smoking. Results: One hundred ten participants developed CD, and 244 participants developed UC during follow-up. The adjusted odds ratio for the highest versus the lowest quintiles of total carbohydrate intake for CD was 0.87, 95% CI = 0.24 to 3.12 and for UC 1.46, 95% CI = 0.62 to 3.46, with no significant trends across quintiles for either (CD, Ptrend = 0.70; UC, Ptrend = 0.41). Similarly, no associations were observed with intakes of total sugar (CD, Ptrend = 0.50; UC, Ptrend = 0.71) or starch (CD, Ptrend = 0.69; UC, Ptrend = 0.17). Conclusions: The lack of associations with these nutrients is in agreement with many case–control studies that have not identified associations with CD or UC. As there is biological plausibility for how specific carbohydrates could have an etiological role in inflammatory bowel disease, future epidemiological work should assess individual carbohydrates, although there does not seem to be a macronutrient effect. PMID:25265262

The Mount Wilson-University of California Connection from Hussey and Seares to Mayall and Olin Wilson

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Osterbrock, D. E.

2004-12-01

George Ellery Hale, who founded Mount Wilson Solar Observatory, first visited Lick Observatory in 1890, soon after his graduation from MIT. After his parents' deaths, when he began openly planning a Yerkes Observatory ``expedition" to California, Hale's friend James E. Keeler, then Lick Observatory Director, invited him (in 1899) to locate it on Mt.Hamilton. Hale thanked him, but replied that sites further south would have more clear weather. He had probably already decided on Mount Wilson. There were many close connections between the University of California and Mount Wilson Observatory from that time right up to the present. W.J. Hussey was the Lick astronomer who carried out the official site survey that confirmed Mount Wilson as the best site. Harold Palmer (UC Astronomy PhD 1903) was the first new staff member Hale hired, but he only lasted a few months. The two main reasons for the continuing connection were the geographical proximity of Pasadena and the Bay Area, and the fact that for many years UC was the outstanding graduate astronomy department in the country, producing numerous well trained observational research astronomers. However in the early years the reasons were more complicated. After Palmer, the next three hired at MWO were Arthur King, the first UC Physics PhD (1903); Harold Babcock, (UC Engineering BS 1907); and F.H. Seares (UC Astronomy BS 1895). Harold Babcock trained his son in astronomy almost from birth, and Horace (UC Astronomy PhD 1938) joined the MWO staff after World War II and became its Director in 1964. Palmer and Edward Fath (UC PhD 1909) were less successful at MWO and soon departed. These and numerous other MWO astronomers with UC backgrounds will be mentioned, and their careers discussed.

Current approaches to the management of new-onset ulcerative colitis

PubMed Central

Marchioni Beery, Renée; Kane, Sunanda

2014-01-01

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an idiopathic, inflammatory gastrointestinal disease of the colon. As a chronic condition, UC follows a relapsing and remitting course with medical maintenance during periods of quiescent disease and appropriate escalation of therapy during times of flare. Initial treatment strategies must not only take into account current clinical presentation (with specific regard for extent and severity of disease activity) but must also take into consideration treatment options for the long-term. The following review offers an approach to new-onset UC with a focus on early treatment strategies. An introduction to the disease entity is provided along with an approach to initial diagnosis. Stratification of patients based on clinical parameters, disease extent, and severity of illness is paramount to determining course of therapy. Frequent assessments are required to determine clinical response, and treatment intensification may be warranted if expected improvement goals are not appropriately reached. Mild-to- moderate UC can be managed with aminosalicylates, mesalamine, and topical corticosteroids with oral corticosteroids reserved for unresponsive cases. Moderate-to-severe UC generally requires oral or intravenous corticosteroids in the short-term with consideration of long-term management options such as biologic agents (as initial therapy or in transition from steroids) or thiopurines (as bridging therapy). Patients with severe or fulminant UC who are recalcitrant to medical therapy or who develop disease complications (such as toxic megacolon) should be considered for colectomy. Early surgical referral in severe or refractory UC is crucial, and colectomy may be a life-saving procedure. The authors provide a comprehensive evidence-based approach to current treatment options for new-onset UC with discussion of long-term therapeutic efficacy and safety, patient-centered perspectives including quality of life and medication compliance, and future directions in related inflammatory bowel disease care. PMID:24872716

No association of alcohol use and the risk of ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease: data from a European Prospective cohort study (EPIC).

PubMed

Bergmann, M M; Hernandez, V; Bernigau, W; Boeing, H; Chan, S S M; Luben, R; Khaw, K-T; van Schaik, F; Oldenburg, B; Bueno-de-Mesquita, B; Overvad, K; Palli, D; Masala, G; Carbonnel, F; Boutron-Ruault, M-C; Olsen, A; Tjonneland, A; Kaaks, R; Katzke, V; Riboli, E; Hart, A R

2017-04-01

The role of long-term alcohol consumption for the risk of developing ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD) is unclear. For the first time, to prospectively assess the role of pre-disease alcohol consumption on the risk of developing UC or CD. Nested within the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC-IBD), incident UC and CD cases and matched controls where included. At recruitment, participants completed validated food frequency and lifestyle questionnaires. Alcohol consumption was classified as either: non-use, former, light (⩽0.5 and 1 drink per week), below the recommended limits (BRL) (⩽1 and 2 drinks per day), moderate (⩽2.5 and 5 drinks per day), or heavy use (>2.5 and >5 drinks per day) for women and men, respectively; and was expressed as consumption at enrolment and during lifetime. Conditional logistic regression was applied adjusting for smoking and education, taking light users as the reference. Out of 262 451 participants in six countries, 198 UC incident cases/792 controls and 84 CD cases/336 controls were included. At enrolment, 8%/27%/32%/23%/11% UC cases and 7%/29%/40%/19%/5% CD cases were: non-users, light, BRL, moderate and heavy users, respectively. The corresponding figures for lifetime non-use, former, light, BRL, moderate and heavy use were: 3%/5%/23%/44%/19%/6% and 5%/2%/25%/44%/23%/1% for UC and CD cases, respectively. There were no associations between any categories of alcohol consumption and risk of UC or CD in the unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios. There was no evidence of associations between alcohol use and the odds of developing either UC or CD.

A 24-week randomised controlled trial comparing usual care and metabolic-based diet plans in obese adults.

PubMed

McDoniel, S O; Hammond, R S

2010-10-01

Usual care (UC) practice for weight management often includes providing standardised, ad libitum, low-calorie nutrition plans. However, weight loss using such plans appears comparable with metabolic-based diet (MD) plans that are closer to resting energy expenditure (REE) level. In addition, MD plans are approximately 250-750 kcal/day higher in caloric values compared with UC plans. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to compare weight loss and eating behaviour differences between UC and MD plans. Seventy-four obese (30.0-51.7 kg/m(2) ) adults (21-67 years) voluntarily participated in a 24-week randomised study. UC men and women received a fixed, ad libitum, 1600 and 1200 kcal/day nutrient plan, respectively. MD participants received an individualised treatment plan based from measured REE. Bodyweight and eating behaviours (i.e. intake, restraint and uncontrolled eating) were assessed over time. Intent-to-treat analysis indicated no significant difference in weight loss (UC: -5.7 ± 6.3% vs. MD: -5.3 ± 7.1% p = 0.67) between groups over time. There was no difference in daily energy intake (UC: 2490 ± 576 kcal/day vs. MD: 2525 ± 475 kcal/day) at 24 weeks between groups. Both groups experienced a significant improvement (p < 0.05) in eating dietary restraint and uncontrolled eating yet there was no difference between groups. From this study, UC calorie plans do not generate more weight loss or improve eating behaviours in comparison with MD calorie plans. As treatment effects are comparable, clinicians can select UC or MD plan options based on clinician and patient preference. © 2010 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

What do patients with urothelial cancer know about the association of their tumor disease with smoking habits? Results of a German survey study

PubMed Central

Fritsche, Hans-Martin; Gilfrich, Christian; Dombrowski, Mirja; Maurer, Odilo; Spachmann, Philipp; Kumar, Manju Ganesh; Bjurlin, Marc; Burger, Maximilian; Brookman-May, Sabine

2018-01-01

Purpose Smoking represents a primary risk factor for the development of urothelial carcinoma (UC) and a relevant factor impacting UC-specific prognosis. Data on the accordant knowledge of UC-patients in this regard and the significance of physicians in the education of UC-patients is limited. Materials and Methods Eighty-eight UC-patients were enrolled in a 23-items-survey-study aimed to analyse patient knowledge and awareness of their tumor disease with smoking along with physician smoking cessation counselling. Results The median age of the study patients was 69 years; 26.1% (n=23), 46.6% (n=41), and 27.3% (n=24), respectively, were non-smokers, previous, and active smokers. Exactly 50% of active smokers reported a previous communication with a physician about the association of smoking and their tumor disease; however, only 25.0% were aware of smoking as main risk factor for UC development. Merely 33% of the active smokers had been prompted directly by their physicians to quit smoking. About 42% of active smokers had received the information that maintaining smoking could result in a tumor-specific impairment of their prognosis. Closely 29% of active and about 5% of previous smokers (during the time-period of active smoking) had been offered support from physicians for smoking cessation. No association was found between smoking anamnesis (p=0.574) and pack-years (p=0.912), respectively, and tumor stage of UC. Conclusions The results of this study suggest that the medical conversation of physicians with UC-patients about the adverse significance of smoking is limited. Implementation of structured educational programs for smoking cessation may be an opportunity to further enhance comprehensive cancer care. PMID:29520384

Aberrant gene methylation in non-neoplastic mucosa as a predictive marker of ulcerative colitis-associated CRC.

PubMed

Scarpa, Marco; Scarpa, Melania; Castagliuolo, Ignazio; Erroi, Francesca; Kotsafti, Andromachi; Basato, Silvia; Brun, Paola; D'Incà, Renata; Rugge, Massimo; Angriman, Imerio; Castoro, Carlo

2016-03-01

BACKGROUND PROMOTER: hypermethylation plays a major role in cancer through transcriptional silencing of critical genes. The aim of our study is to evaluate the methylation status of these genes in the colonic mucosa without dysplasia or adenocarcinoma at the different steps of sporadic and UC-related carcinogenesis and to investigate the possible role of genomic methylation as a marker of CRC. The expression of Dnmts 1 and 3A was significantly increased in UC-related carcinogenesis compared to non inflammatory colorectal carcinogenesis. In non-neoplastic colonic mucosa, the number of methylated genes resulted significantly higher in patients with CRC and in those with UC-related CRC compared to the HC and UC patients and patients with dysplastic lesion of the colon. The number of methylated genes in non-neoplastic colonic mucosa predicted the presence of CRC with good accuracy either in non inflammatory and inflammatory related CRC. Colonic mucosal samples were collected from healthy subjects (HC) (n = 30) and from patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) (n = 29), UC and dysplasia (n = 14), UC and cancer (n = 10), dysplastic adenoma (n = 14), and colon adenocarcinoma (n = 10). DNA methyltransferases-1, -3a, -3b, mRNA expression were quantified by real time qRT-PCR. The methylation status of CDH13, APC, MLH1, MGMT1 and RUNX3 gene promoters was assessed by methylation-specific PCR. Methylation status of APC, CDH13, MGMT, MLH1 and RUNX3 in the non-neoplastic mucosa may be used as a marker of CRC: these preliminary results could allow for the adjustment of a patient's surveillance interval and to select UC patients who should undergo intensive surveillance.

Carbohydrate intake in the etiology of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

PubMed

Chan, Simon S M; Luben, Robert; van Schaik, Fiona; Oldenburg, Bas; Bueno-de-Mesquita, H Bas; Hallmans, Göran; Karling, Pontus; Lindgren, Stefan; Grip, Olof; Key, Timothy; Crowe, Francesca L; Bergmann, Manuela M; Overvad, Kim; Palli, Domenico; Masala, Giovanna; Khaw, Kay-Tee; Racine, Antoine; Carbonnel, Franck; Boutron-Ruault, Marie-Christine; Olsen, Anja; Tjonneland, Anne; Kaaks, Rudolf; Tumino, Rosario; Trichopoulou, Antonia; Hart, Andrew R

2014-11-01

Diet may have a role in the etiology of inflammatory bowel disease. In previous studies, the associations between increased intakes of carbohydrates, sugar, starch, and inflammatory bowel disease are inconsistent. However, few prospective studies have investigated the associations between these macronutrients and incident Crohn's disease (CD) or ulcerative colitis (UC). A total of 401,326 men and women were recruited between 1991 and 1998. At recruitment, dietary intakes of carbohydrate, sugar, and starch were measured using validated food frequency questionnaires. The cohort was monitored identifying participants who developed incident CD or UC. Cases were matched with 4 controls, and odds ratios were calculated for quintiles of total carbohydrate, sugar, and starch intakes adjusted for total energy intake, body mass index, and smoking. One hundred ten participants developed CD, and 244 participants developed UC during follow-up. The adjusted odds ratio for the highest versus the lowest quintiles of total carbohydrate intake for CD was 0.87, 95% CI = 0.24 to 3.12 and for UC 1.46, 95% CI = 0.62 to 3.46, with no significant trends across quintiles for either (CD, P trend = 0.70; UC, P trend = 0.41). Similarly, no associations were observed with intakes of total sugar (CD, P trend = 0.50; UC, P trend = 0.71) or starch (CD, P trend = 0.69; UC, P trend = 0.17). The lack of associations with these nutrients is in agreement with many case-control studies that have not identified associations with CD or UC. As there is biological plausibility for how specific carbohydrates could have an etiological role in inflammatory bowel disease, future epidemiological work should assess individual carbohydrates, although there does not seem to be a macronutrient effect.

Albumin as a prognostic marker for ulcerative colitis

PubMed Central

Khan, Nabeel; Patel, Dhruvan; Shah, Yash; Trivedi, Chinmay; Yang, Yu-Xiao

2017-01-01

AIM To evaluate the role of albumin at the time of ulcerative colitis (UC) diagnosis in predicting the clinical course of disease. METHODS Nationwide cohort of patients with newly diagnosed UC in the Veterans Affairs health care system was identified and divided into two categories: hypoalbuminemia (i.e., ≤ 3.5 gm/dL) or normal albumin levels (i.e., > 3.5 gm/dL) at the time of UC diagnosis. The exposure of interest was presence of hypoalbuminemia defined as albumin level ≤ 3.5 g/dL at the time of UC diagnosis. Patients were then followed over time to identify the use of ≥ 2 courses of corticosteroids (CS), thiopurines, anti-TNF medications and requirement of colectomy for UC management. RESULTS The eligible study cohort included 802 patients, but 92 (11.4%) patients did not have their albumin levels checked at the time of UC diagnosis, and they were excluded. A total of 710 patients, who had albumin levels checked at time of UC diagnosis, were included in our study. Amongst them, 536 patients had a normal albumin level and 174 patients had hypoalbuminemia. Patients with hypoalbuminemia at diagnosis had a higher likelihood of ≥ 2 courses of CS use (adjusted HR = 1.7, 95%CI: 1.3-2.3), higher likelihood of thiopurine or anti- TNF use (adjusted HR = 1.72, 95%CI: 1.23-2.40) than patients with normal albumin level at diagnosis. There was a trend of higher likelihood of colectomy in hypoalbuminemic patients, but it was not statistically significant (Adjusted HR = 1.7, 95%CI: 0.90-3.25). CONCLUSION Hypoalbuminemia at disease diagnosis can serve as a prognostic marker to predict the clinical course of UC at the time of diagnosis. PMID:29259376

Dramatic Increase in Incidence of Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn's Disease (1988-2011): A Population-Based Study of French Adolescents.

PubMed

Ghione, Silvia; Sarter, Hélène; Fumery, Mathurin; Armengol-Debeir, Laura; Savoye, Guillaume; Ley, Delphine; Spyckerelle, Claire; Pariente, Benjamin; Peyrin-Biroulet, Laurent; Turck, Dominique; Gower-Rousseau, Corinne

2018-02-01

Few data are available to describe the changes in incidence of pediatric-onset inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The aim of this study was to describe changes in incidence and phenotypic presentation of pediatric-onset IBD in northern France during a 24-year period. Pediatric-onset IBD (<17 years) was issued from a population-based IBD study in France between 1988 and 2011. Age groups and digestive location were defined according to the Paris classification. 1,350 incident cases were recorded (8.3% of all IBD) including 990 Crohn's disease (CD), 326 ulcerative colitis (UC) and 34 IBD unclassified (IBDU). Median age at diagnosis was similar in CD (14.4 years (Q1=11.8-Q3=16.0)) and UC (14.0 years (11.0-16.0)) and did not change over time. There were significantly more males with CD (females/males=0.82) than UC (females/males=1.25) (P=0.0042). Median time between onset of symptoms and IBD diagnosis was consistently 3 months (1-6). Mean incidence was 4.4/10 5 for IBD overall (3.2 for CD, 1.1 for UC and 0.1 for IBDU). From 1988-1990 to 2009-2011, a dramatic increase in incidences of both CD and UC were observed in adolescents (10-16 years): for CD from 4.2 to 9.5/10 5 (+126%; P<0.001) and for UC, from 1.6 to 4.1/10 5 (+156%; P<0.001). No modification in age or location at diagnosis was observed in either CD or UC. In this population-based study, CD and UC incidences increased dramatically in adolescents across a 24-year span, suggesting that one or more strong environmental factors may predispose this population to IBD.

Usefulness of Transcriptional Blood Biomarkers as a Non-invasive Surrogate Marker of Mucosal Healing and Endoscopic Response in Ulcerative Colitis.

PubMed

Planell, Núria; Masamunt, M Carme; Leal, Raquel Franco; Rodríguez, Lorena; Esteller, Miriam; Lozano, Juan J; Ramírez, Anna; Ayrizono, Maria de Lourdes Setsuko; Coy, Claudio Saddy Rodrigues; Alfaro, Ignacio; Ordás, Ingrid; Visvanathan, Sudha; Ricart, Elena; Guardiola, Jordi; Panés, Julián; Salas, Azucena

2017-10-27

Ulcerative colitis [UC] is a chronic inflammatory disease of the colon. Colonoscopy remains the gold standard for evaluating disease activity, as clinical symptoms are not sufficiently accurate. The aim of this study is to identify new accurate non-invasive biomarkers based on whole-blood transcriptomics that can predict mucosal lesions and response to treatment in UC patients. Whole-blood samples were collected for a total of 152 UC patients at endoscopy. Blood RNA from 25 UC individuals and 20 controls was analysed using microarrays. Genes that correlated with endoscopic activity were validated using real-time polymerase chain reaction in an independent group of 111 UC patients, and a prediction model for mucosal lesions was evaluated. Responsiveness to treatment was assessed in a longitudinal cohort of 16 UC patients who started anti-tumour necrosis factor [TNF] therapy and were followed up for 14 weeks. Microarray analysis identified 122 genes significantly altered in the blood of endoscopically active UC patients. A significant correlation with the degree of endoscopic activity was observed in several genes, including HP, CD177, GPR84, and S100A12. Using HP as a predictor of endoscopic disease activity, an accuracy of 67.3% was observed, compared with 52.4%, 45.2%, and 30.3% for C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and platelet count, respectively. Finally, at 14 weeks of treatment, response to anti-TNF therapy induced alterations in blood HP, CD177, GPR84, and S100A12 transcripts that correlated with changes in endoscopic activity. Transcriptional changes in UC patients are sensitive to endoscopic improvement and appear to be an effective tool to monitor patients over time. © European Crohn’s and Colitis Organisation (ECCO) 2017.

Usefulness of Transcriptional Blood Biomarkers as a Non-invasive Surrogate Marker of Mucosal Healing and Endoscopic Response in Ulcerative Colitis

PubMed Central

Planell, Núria; Masamunt, M Carme; Leal, Raquel Franco; Rodríguez, Lorena; Esteller, Miriam; Lozano, Juan J; Ramírez, Anna; Ayrizono, Maria de Lourdes Setsuko; Coy, Claudio Saddy Rodrigues; Alfaro, Ignacio; Ordás, Ingrid; Visvanathan, Sudha; Ricart, Elena; Guardiola, Jordi; Panés, Julián; Salas, Azucena

2017-01-01

Abstract Background and Aims Ulcerative colitis [UC] is a chronic inflammatory disease of the colon. Colonoscopy remains the gold standard for evaluating disease activity, as clinical symptoms are not sufficiently accurate. The aim of this study is to identify new accurate non-invasive biomarkers based on whole-blood transcriptomics that can predict mucosal lesions and response to treatment in UC patients. Methods Whole-blood samples were collected for a total of 152 UC patients at endoscopy. Blood RNA from 25 UC individuals and 20 controls was analysed using microarrays. Genes that correlated with endoscopic activity were validated using real-time polymerase chain reaction in an independent group of 111 UC patients, and a prediction model for mucosal lesions was evaluated. Responsiveness to treatment was assessed in a longitudinal cohort of 16 UC patients who started anti-tumour necrosis factor [TNF] therapy and were followed up for 14 weeks. Results Microarray analysis identified 122 genes significantly altered in the blood of endoscopically active UC patients. A significant correlation with the degree of endoscopic activity was observed in several genes, including HP, CD177, GPR84, and S100A12. Using HP as a predictor of endoscopic disease activity, an accuracy of 67.3% was observed, compared with 52.4%, 45.2%, and 30.3% for C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and platelet count, respectively. Finally, at 14 weeks of treatment, response to anti-TNF therapy induced alterations in blood HP, CD177, GPR84, and S100A12 transcripts that correlated with changes in endoscopic activity. Conclusions Transcriptional changes in UC patients are sensitive to endoscopic improvement and appear to be an effective tool to monitor patients over time. PMID:28981629

Results of Student-Generated 'Unique Characteristics' on the Medical Student Performance Evaluation.

PubMed

Holloway, Richard; Domack, Aaron; Treat, Robert; Roo, Koenraad De

2016-06-01

The Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE)--formerly called the dean's letter--is an important tool for residency program directors to use in assessing student qualifications for both invitation to interview and construction of their rank order list. Many institutions are now allowing students to construct their own Unique Characteristics (UC) section for the MSPE. This study addresses the results of allowing students to construct their own UC. The goal of this study was to allow students to voice their thoughts regarding their participation in the construction of the UC section of the MSPE. The survey evaluated student attitude toward, value of, and support for the UC section. We conducted a cross-sectional survey of all fourth-year medical students at the Medical College of Wisconsin during the 2014-2015 academic year. Responses were received from 66% of students (133 out of 199). We developed a question bank to cover the aims of the study--to assess student perceived value, experience writing, and support for the UC section. There was agreement among students that their participation will positively affect their candidacy for interview selection and success in the match. Overall significance of regression model P = .001, R2. = .60. Additionally, students believed they had an advantage over applicants at other schools without the opportunity to draft their UC. Other findings included that men found the task more challenging, psychiatry applicants were least satisfied with the character count, and emergency medicine applicants voiced the lowest value for the UC section. The present study supports, in general terms, the utility and value of students drafting their own UC section of the MSPE. Future investigations should focus on expanding to other schools, comparing public to private institutions, and refining the interspecialty comparisons.

Three-dimensional spheroid culture of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells promotes cell yield and stemness maintenance.

PubMed

Li, Yi; Guo, Gang; Li, Li; Chen, Fei; Bao, Ji; Shi, Yu-Jun; Bu, Hong

2015-05-01

Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplantation is a promising treatment of many diseases. However, conventional techniques with cells being cultured as a monolayer result in slow cell proliferation and insufficient yield to meet clinical demands. Three-dimensional (3D) culture systems are gaining attention with regard to recreating a complex microenvironment and to understanding the conditions experienced by cells. Our aim is to establish a novel 3D system for the culture of human umbilical cord MSCs (hUC-MSCs) within a real 3D microenvironment but with no digestion or passaging. Primary hUC-MSCs were isolated and grown in serum-free medium (SFM) on a suspension Rocker system. Cell characteristics including proliferation, phenotype and multipotency were recorded. The therapeutic effects of 3D-cultured hUC-MSCs on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced acute liver failure in mouse models were examined. In the 3D Rocker system, hUC-MSCs formed spheroids in SFM and maintained high viability and active proliferation. Compared with monolayer culture, the 3D-culture system yielded more hUC-MSCs cells within the same volume. The spheroids expressed higher levels of stem cell markers and displayed stronger multipotency. After transplantation into mouse, 3D hUC-MSCs significantly promoted the secretion of interferon-γ and interleukin-6 but inhibited that of tumor necrosis factor-α, thereby alleviating liver necrosis and promoting regeneration following CCl4 injury. The 3D culture of hUC-MSCs thus promotes cell yield and stemness maintenance and represents a promising strategy for hUC-MSCs expansion on an industrial scale with great potential for cell therapy and biotechnology.

Academic productivity and its relationship to physician salaries in the University of California Healthcare System.

PubMed

Fijalkowski, Natalia; Zheng, Luo Luo; Henderson, Michael T; Moshfeghi, Andrew A; Maltenfort, Mitchell; Moshfeghi, Darius M

2013-07-01

To evaluate whether physicians with higher academic productivity, as measured by the number of publications in Scopus and the Scopus Hirsch index (h-index), earn higher salaries. This was a cross-sectional study. Participants were ophthalmologists, otolaryngologists, neurosurgeons, and neurologists classified as "top earners" (>$100,000 annually) within the University of California (UC) healthcare system in 2008. Bibliometric searches on Scopus were conducted to retrieve the total number of publications and Hirsch indices (h-index), a measure of academic productivity. The association between the number of publications and h-index on physicians' total compensation was determined with multivariate regression models after controlling for the four specialties (ophthalmology, otolaryngology, neurosurgery, and neurology), the five institutions (UC San Francisco, UC Los Angeles, UC San Diego, UC Irvine, and UC Davis), and academic rank (assistant professor, associate professor, and professor). The UC healthcare system departments reported 433 faculty physicians among the four specialties, with 71.6% (n = 310) earning more than $100,000 in 2008 and classifying as top earners. After controlling for the specialty, institution, and ranking, there was a significant association between the number of publications on salary (P < 0.000001). Scopus number of publications and h-index were correlated (P < 0.001). Scopus h-index was of borderline significance in predicting physician salary (P = 0.12). Physicians with higher Scopus publications had higher total salaries across all four specialties. Every 10 publications were associated with a 2.40% increase in total salary after controlling for specialty, institution, rank, and chair. Ophthalmologists, otolaryngologists, neurosurgeons, and neurologists in the UC healthcare system who are more academically productive receive greater remuneration.

Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells ameliorate mice trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)-induced colitis.

PubMed

Liang, Lu; Dong, Chunlan; Chen, Xiaojun; Fang, Zhihong; Xu, Jie; Liu, Meng; Zhang, Xiaoguang; Gu, Dong Sheng; Wang, Ding; Du, Weiting; Zhu, Delin; Han, Zhong Chao

2011-01-01

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), which are poorly immunogenic and have potent immunosuppressive activities, have emerged as a promising candidate for cellular therapeutics for the treatment of disorders caused by abnormal immune responses. In this study we investigated whether human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs) could ameliorate colitis in a trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)-induced colitis model. TNBS-treated colitic mice were infused with hUC-MSCs or vehicle control. The mice were sacrificed on day 1, 3, and 5 after infusion, and their clinical and pathological conditions were evaluated by body weight, colon length, and histological analysis. The expression levels of proinflammatory cytokine proteins in colon were examined by ELISA. The homing of hUC-MSCs was studied by live in vivo imaging and immunofluorescent microscopy. hUC-MSCs were found to migrate to the inflamed colon and effectively treated the colitic mice with improved clinical and pathological signs. The levels of IL-17 and IL-23 as well as IFN-γ and IL-6 were significantly lower in the colon tissues of the hUC-MSC-treated mice in comparison with the vehicle-treated mice. Coculture experiments showed that hUC-MSCs not only could inhibit IFN-γ expression but also significantly inhibit IL-17 production by lamina propria mononuclear cells (LPMCs) or splenocytes of the colitic mice or by those isolated from normal animals and stimulated with IL-23. Systemically infused hUC-MSCs could home to the inflamed colon and effectively ameliorate colitis. In addition to the known suppressive effects on Th1-type immune responses, hUC-MSC-mediated modulation of IL-23/IL-17 regulated inflammatory reactions also plays an important role in the amelioration of colitis.

Determination of Cytomegalovirus Prevalence and Glycoprotein B Genotypes Among Ulcerative Colitis Patients in Ahvaz, Iran

PubMed Central

Taherkhani, Reza; Farshadpour, Fatemeh; Makvandi, Manoochehr; Hamidifard, Mojtaba; Esmailizadeh, Mahdi; Ahmadi, Bijan; Heidari, Hamid

2015-01-01

Background: The human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a common pathogen which usually remains asymptomatic in the healthy adults; however, it can cause a symptomatic disease in the immunocompromised patients. The risk of infection with HCMV increases in ulcerative colitis (UC) patients as a result of receiving immunosuppressive agents. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and the glycoprotein B genotypes of HCMV among the patients with HCMV disease superimposed on an UC flare that required hospitalization in Imam Khomeini Hospital in Ahvaz, Iran, during 2010- 2012. Patients and Methods: In this case-control study, formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded intestinal tissue samples were taken from 98 patients with UC disease including 53 males and 45 females (mean age ± standard deviation, 38.95 ± 17.93) and 67 control patients with noninflammatory disease who were referred to Imam Khomeini Hospital during 2010-2012. Detection of HCMV genome in intestinal samples was carried out by seminested polymerase chain reaction. Glycoprotein B genotypes were determined by sequencing. Results: Among 98 patients with UC, only 12 (12.2%) patients were positive for HCMV genome, while the HCMV genome was not detected in any of the controls. (P = 0.002). The distribution of HCMV gB genotypes in 12 CMV-positive UC patients was as follow: gB1, 11 (91.7%) and gB3, 1 (8.3%). The most prevalent genotype in CMV-positive UC patients was gB1. Conclusions: In this study, high prevalence of 91.7% HCMV gB1 genotype was predominant among HCMV-positive UC patients, which suggests that there might be an association between HCMV gB genotype 1 and UC disease. PMID:25793098

Determination of cytomegalovirus prevalence and glycoprotein B genotypes among ulcerative colitis patients in ahvaz, iran.

PubMed

Taherkhani, Reza; Farshadpour, Fatemeh; Makvandi, Manoochehr; Hamidifard, Mojtaba; Esmailizadeh, Mahdi; Ahmadi, Bijan; Heidari, Hamid

2015-02-01

The human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a common pathogen which usually remains asymptomatic in the healthy adults; however, it can cause a symptomatic disease in the immunocompromised patients. The risk of infection with HCMV increases in ulcerative colitis (UC) patients as a result of receiving immunosuppressive agents. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and the glycoprotein B genotypes of HCMV among the patients with HCMV disease superimposed on an UC flare that required hospitalization in Imam Khomeini Hospital in Ahvaz, Iran, during 2010- 2012. In this case-control study, formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded intestinal tissue samples were taken from 98 patients with UC disease including 53 males and 45 females (mean age ± standard deviation, 38.95 ± 17.93) and 67 control patients with noninflammatory disease who were referred to Imam Khomeini Hospital during 2010-2012. Detection of HCMV genome in intestinal samples was carried out by seminested polymerase chain reaction. Glycoprotein B genotypes were determined by sequencing. Among 98 patients with UC, only 12 (12.2%) patients were positive for HCMV genome, while the HCMV genome was not detected in any of the controls. (P = 0.002). The distribution of HCMV gB genotypes in 12 CMV-positive UC patients was as follow: gB1, 11 (91.7%) and gB3, 1 (8.3%). The most prevalent genotype in CMV-positive UC patients was gB1. In this study, high prevalence of 91.7% HCMV gB1 genotype was predominant among HCMV-positive UC patients, which suggests that there might be an association between HCMV gB genotype 1 and UC disease.

Intra-articular administration of xenogeneic neonatal Mesenchymal Stromal Cells early after meniscal injury down-regulates metalloproteinase gene expression in synovium and prevents cartilage degradation in a rabbit model of osteoarthritis.

PubMed

Saulnier, N; Viguier, E; Perrier-Groult, E; Chenu, C; Pillet, E; Roger, T; Maddens, S; Boulocher, C

2015-01-01

The anti-inflammatory and anti-catabolic effects of neonatal Mesenchymal Stromal Cell (MSC) were investigated in a xenogeneic model of mild osteoarthritis (OA). The paracrine properties of MSC on synoviocytes were further investigated in vitro. OA was induced by medial meniscal release (MMR) in 30 rabbit knees. A single early (day 3) or delayed (day 15) intra-articular (IA) injection of MSC isolated from equine Umbilical Cord Wharton's jelly (UC-MSC) was performed. Rabbits were euthanized on days 15 or 56. OA grading was performed and gene expression of inflammatory cytokines and metalloproteinases was measured in synovial tissue. Paracrine effects of UC-MSC were investigated using UC-conditioned vs control medium on rabbit primary synoviocytes stimulated with interleukin 1 beta in vitro. No adverse local or systemic responses were observed clinically after xenogeneic UC-MSC injection. At study end point, cartilage fibrillation was lower in early treatment than in delayed treatment group. Cellular infiltrate was observed in the synovium of both UC-MSC groups. OA synovium exhibited a reduced expression of metalloproteinases-1, -3, -13 in the early cell-treated group at d56. In vitro, UC-conditioned medium exerted anti-inflammatory and anti-catabolic effects on synoviocytes exposed to pro-inflammatory stimulus. Early IA injection of equine UC-MSC was effective in preventing OA signs in rabbit knees following MMR. UC-MSC target the synovium and modulate the gene expression pattern of synoviocytes to promote an anti-catabolic environment. This confirms the synovium is a major target and mediator of MSC therapy, modulating the expression of matrix-degrading enzymes. Copyright © 2014 Osteoarthritis Research Society International. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Medical resource utilization and associated costs in patients with ulcerative colitis in the UK: a chart review analysis.

PubMed

Bodger, Keith; Yen, Linnette; Szende, Agota; Sharma, Gunjan; Chen, Yaozhu J; McDermott, John; Hodgkins, Paul

2014-02-01

Limited evidence is available on the economic burden of ulcerative colitis (UC) in the UK, particularly relating to the impact of relapse frequency on direct medical costs. This study identifies and assesses medical resource utilization (MRU) and associated direct costs in mild and moderate UC patients in the UK. A retrospective chart review of patients with mild-to-moderate UC diagnosed at least 1 year before the study was performed. From 33 general practitioner (GP) and 34 gastroenterologist sites, charts of the last three UC patients fulfilling the inclusion criteria were reviewed. Descriptive statistics were calculated for MRU and 2011 costs (GB£) by number of relapses. The study population included 201 patients with a mean age of 39.9 years; 44% were women and the mean disease duration was 7.4 years. UC-related costs of each MRU category increased with the number of relapses. Comparing patients without relapse with those with more than two relapses, the mean annual UC-related costs were £14 versus £2556 for hospitalizations; £218 versus £988 for visits (including nurse, GP, specialist, and other visits); £21 versus £1303 for procedures; £17 versus £188 for diagnostics; and £1168 versus £6660 for all-cause total costs. Age, sex, and site of data reporting (GP vs. gastroenterologist) were not associated with MRU or costs. Patients with mild-to-moderate UC incurred considerable costs that increased markedly with the number of relapses. These findings support the importance of maintenance therapies in UC that reduce or prevent relapses. Quantifying the relationship between relapse rate and costs will inform future health economic studies.

A meta-analysis of the relationship between MYO9B gene polymorphisms and susceptibility to Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

PubMed

Li, Peng; Yang, Xiao-Ke; Wang, Xiu; Zhao, Meng-Qin; Zhang, Chao; Tao, Sha-Sha; Zhao, Wei; Huang, Qing; Li, Lian-Ju; Pan, Hai-Feng; Ye, Dong-Qing

2016-10-01

Both Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) have a complex etiology involving multiple genetic and environmental factors. Multiple UC and CD susceptibility genes have been identified through genome-wide association studies and subsequent meta-analyses. The aim of this meta-analysis was to clarify the impact of MYO9B gene polymorphisms on CD and UC risk. The PubMed, Elsevier Science Direct and Embase databases were searched to identify eligible studies that were published before October 2014. Data were extracted and pooled crude odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated. A total of 11 studies, containing 3297 CD cases, 3903 UC cases and 8174 controls were included in this meta-analysis. Bonferroni correction results showed that rs1545620 A/C polymorphism of MYO9B gene was associated with both CD and UC susceptibility in Caucasians (OR=0.88, 95% CI=0.82∼0.95, P=0.001; OR=0.82, 95% CI=0.76∼0.89, P<0.001), but not in Chinese. rs1457092 G/T and rs2305764 C/T polymorphisms are associated with UC susceptibility (OR=0.85, 95% CI=0.79∼0.91, P<0.001; OR=0.88, 95% CI=0.83∼0.93, P<0.001), but not with CD susceptibility in Caucasians. This meta-analysis suggested that rs1545620 is both CD and UC susceptible locus in Caucasians; rs1457092 and rs2305764 are UC susceptible loci, but are not CD susceptible loci in Caucasians. Further studies with more sample size are needed for a definitive conclusion. Copyright © 2016 American Society for Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Systematic review with meta-analysis: real-world effectiveness and safety of vedolizumab in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.

PubMed

Schreiber, Stefan; Dignass, Axel; Peyrin-Biroulet, Laurent; Hather, Greg; Demuth, Dirk; Mosli, Mahmoud; Curtis, Rebecca; Khalid, Javaria Mona; Loftus, Edward Vincent

2018-06-04

Selective patient recruitment can produce discrepancies between clinical trial results and real-world effectiveness. A systematic literature review and meta-analysis were conducted to assess vedolizumab real-world effectiveness and safety in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) or Crohn's disease (CD). MEDLINE, MEDLINE In-Process, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases were searched for real-world studies of vedolizumab in adult patients with UC/CD reporting clinical response, remission, corticosteroid-free remission, UC/CD-related surgery or hospitalization, mucosal healing, or safety published from May 1, 2014-June 22, 2017. Response and remission rates were combined in random-effects meta-analyses. At treatment week 14, 32% of UC patients [95% confidence interval (CI) 27-39%] and 30% of CD patients (95% CI 25-34%) were in remission; and at month 12, 46% for UC (95% CI 37-56%) and 30% for CD (95% CI 20-42%). For UC, the rates of corticosteroid-free remission were 26% at week 14 (95% CI 20-34%) and 42% at month 12 (95% CI 31-53%); for CD they were 25% at week 14 (95%, CI 20-31%) and 31% at month 12 (95%, CI 20-45%). At month 12, 33-77% of UC and 6-63% of CD patients had mucosal healing. Nine percent of patients reported serious adverse events. Vedolizumab demonstrated real-world effectiveness in patients with moderate-to-severely active UC or CD, with approximately one-half and one-third of patients, respectively, in remission at treatment month 12. These findings are consistent with clinical trial data and support the long-term benefit-risk profile of vedolizumab.

Ulcerative colitis in a multiracial Asian country: Racial differences and clinical presentation among Malaysian patients

PubMed Central

Tan, Yan-Mei; Goh, Khean-Lee

2005-01-01

AIM: TO determine the prevalence of ulcerative colitis (UC) in Malaysian patients and to establish the spectrum of the disease seen in Malaysian patients. METHODS: Data were obtained retrospectively from a review of the medical records of in- and out-patients with a diagnosis of UC at the University Hospital, Kuala Lumpur between 1985 and 1998. RESULTS: There were 45 confirmed cases of UC, of which 3 were foreigners, who were excluded from analysis. Thirty new cases of UC were diagnosed during the study period. Their mean age at presentation was 33.0 ± 10.0 years. The highest prevalence of UC was 17.9/100 000 hospital admissions in the Indians, followed by 11.2/100 000 hospital admissions in the Chinese. The lowest prevalence was 3.7/100 000 hospital admissions in the Malays. The prevalence of UC was significantly higher in the Indians and the Chinese when compared with the Malays with an OR of 4.89 (CI = 2.02-12.24; c2 = 15.45,P < 0.001) and 3.06 (CI = 1.24-7.78; c2 = 6.30; P = 0.012) respectively. The extent of colonic disease was similar in the Malay and Indian patients. In contrast, distal or left-sided colitis predominated in the Chinese with an OR of 8.17 (95%CI = 1.31-64.87; c2 = 5.53, P = 0.02). Extraintestinal manifestations were uncommon (11.9%). CONCLUSION: UC is an uncommon disease in Malaysia, but racial differences exist. The Indians had the highest prevalence of UC with the Chinese demonstrating the least extensive disease. PMID:16270398

The diagnostic value of a new fecal marker, matrix metalloprotease-9, in different types of inflammatory bowel diseases.

PubMed

Farkas, Klaudia; Saródi, Zoltán; Bálint, Anita; Földesi, Imre; Tiszlavicz, László; Szűcs, Mónika; Nyári, Tibor; Tajti, János; Nagy, Ferenc; Szepes, Zoltán; Bor, Renáta; Annaházi, Anita; Róka, Richárd; Molnár, Tamás

2015-03-01

Only limited data are available regarding the diagnostic accuracy of fecal matrix metalloprotease-9 [MMP-9] for inflammatory bowel disease [IBD]. The aims of our study were to assess the diagnostic accuracy of fecal MMP-9 in patients with active Crohn's disease [CD], ulcerative colitis [UC], and pouchitis, and to compare the diagnostic accuracy of fecal MMP-9 and fecal calprotectin [CP] in IBD. Stool and blood samples were collected in 50 CD, 54 UC, and 34 ileal pouch-anal anastomosis patients before control endoscopies were performed. Biopsies were taken for histologic purposes. The activities of CD, UC, and pouchitis were defined with the use of clinical, endoscopic, and histologic activity scores. Fecal CP and MMP-9 levels were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Active CD, UC, and pouchitis were detected in 38%, 54%, and 29% of the patients, respectively. A significant correlation was revealed between fecal CP and the clinical activities of CD and UC, and between fecal CP and the endoscopic activity of UC and pouchitis. Fecal MMP-9 did not correlate with any of the activity indices of CD; however, strong associations were shown between fecal MMP-9 and clinical, endoscopic, and histologic activities of both UC and pouchitis. This is the first study assessing the diagnostic accuracy of MMP-9 in different types of IBD. Our results showed that fecal MMP-9 has high sensitivity in the detection of endoscopically active UC and pouchitis. These non-invasive methods help assess intestinal inflammation. Copyright © 2015 European Crohn’s and Colitis Organisation (ECCO). Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Readressing the role of Toll-like receptor-4 alleles in inflammatory bowel disease: colitis, smoking, and seroreactivity.

PubMed

Manolakis, Anastassios C; Kapsoritakis, Andreas N; Kapsoritaki, Anastasia; Tiaka, Elisavet K; Oikonomou, Konstantinos A; Lotis, Vassilis; Vamvakopoulou, Dimitra; Davidi, Ioanna; Vamvakopoulos, Nikolaos; Potamianos, Spyros P

2013-02-01

Toll-like receptor (TLR) polymorphisms, and especially TLR-4 Asp299Gly and TLR-4 Thr399Ile, have been linked with Crohn's disease (CD) and to a lesser extent with ulcerative colitis (UC), CD behavior, and compromised seroreactivity to microbial antigens. Available data, however, are conflicting. To address these issues, the distribution of TLR-4 polymorphic alleles was assessed in patients with UC, CD, and healthy controls (HC), considering patient and disease characteristics as well as related serological markers. TLR-4 Asp299Gly and TLR-4 Thr399Ile polymorphisms were determined in 187 UC and 163 CD patients and 274 randomly selected HC. C reactive protein, anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae mannan antibodies, anti-mannobioside carbohydrate antibodies, anti-laminariobioside carbohydrate antibodies IgG, and anti-chitobioside carbohydrate antibodies (ACCA) IgA levels were also assessed. UC and especially pancolitis patients carried the mutant alleles more frequently compared to CD patients and HC or UC patients with different disease extents (P = 0.002 and P < 0.0001, respectively). Involvement of the colon was more frequent in CD patients with mutant TLR-4 compared to those with wild-type alleles (P = 0.004). Levels and positivity rates of ACCA IgA were lower in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients carrying the mutant compared to those with wild-type alleles (0.075 < P < 0.05). Despite the mutant TLR-4 predisposition for UC pancolitis, smoking was associated with more limited disease (P < 0.001). The presence of TLR-4 Asp299Gly and TLR-4 Thr399Ile polymorphisms is related to UC pancolitis, involvement of the colon in CD, and lower ACCA IgA levels. Smoking reduces the extent of UC, even in the presence of mutant alleles.

NUCLEAR FUEL MATERIAL

DOEpatents

Goeddel, W.V.

1962-06-26

An improved method is given for making the carbides of nuclear fuel material. The metal of the fuel material, which may be a fissile and/or fertile material, is transformed into a silicide, after which the silicide is comminuted to the desired particle size. This silicide is then carburized at an elevated temperature, either above or below the melting point of the silicide, to produce an intimate mixture of the carbide of the fuel material and the carbide of silicon. This mixture of the fuel material carbide and the silicon carbide is relatively stable in the presence of moisture and does not exhibit the highly reactive surface condition which is observed with fuel material carbides made by most other known methods. (AEC)

Association of linear IgA bullous disease with ulcerative colitis: a case of successful treatment with infliximab.

PubMed

Yamada, S; Makino, T; Jinnin, M; Sakai, K; Fukushima, S; Inoue, Y; Ihn, H

2013-01-01

Linear IgA bullous disease (LABD) has been reported in association with inflammatory bowel disease, in particular ulcerative colitis (UC). We reporting a 34-year-old female who developed LABD during a flare-up of UC. We administered infliximab, which has been approved for the treatment of UC; infliximab dramatically improved the cutaneous lesions and bowel symptoms. This is the first report showing a marked effect of infliximab on LABD. First, we hypothesize that infliximab works for UC and then calms down excessive production of inflammatory cytokines and autoantibodies, and so stricter control of UC by infliximab is beneficial against the skin condition of LABD. Second, we suggest that TNF-α production in the lesion of LABD is increased, so TNF-α plays an important role in developing cutaneous lesions. This case suggests that infliximab, a monoclonal antibody against TNF-α, is efficacious in the cutaneous symptoms of LABD.

Light atom quantum oscillations in UC and US

DOE PAGES

Yiu, Yuen; Aczel, Adam A.; Granroth, Garrett E.; ...

2016-01-19

High energy vibrational scattering in the binary systems UC and US is measured using time-of-flight inelastic neutron scattering. A clear set of well-defined peaks equally separated in energy is observed in UC, corresponding to harmonic oscillations of the light C atoms in a cage of heavy U atoms. The scattering is much weaker in US and only a few oscillator peaks are visible. We show how the difference between the materials can be understood by considering the neutron scattering lengths and masses of the lighter atoms. Monte Carlo ray tracing is used to simulate the scattering, with near quantitative agreementmore » with the data in UC, and some differences with US. The possibility of observing anharmonicity and anisotropy in the potentials of the light atoms is investigated in UC. Lastly, the observed data is well accounted for by considering each light atom as a single atom isotropic quantum harmonic oscillator.« less

Boron containing multilayer coatings and method of fabrication

DOEpatents

Makowiecki, D.M.; Jankowski, A.F.

1997-09-23

Hard coatings are fabricated from multilayer boron/boron carbide, boron carbide/cubic boron nitride, and boron/boron nitride/boron carbide, and the fabrication thereof involves magnetron sputtering in a selected atmosphere. These hard coatings may be applied to tools and engine and other parts, as well to reduce wear on tribological surfaces and electronic devices. These boron coatings contain no morphological growth features. For example, the boron and boron carbide used in forming the multilayers are formed in an inert (e.g. argon) atmosphere, while the cubic boron nitride is formed in a reactive (e.g. nitrogen) atmosphere. The multilayer boron/boron carbide, and boron carbide/cubic boron nitride is produced by depositing alternate layers of boron, cubic boron nitride or boron carbide, with the alternate layers having a thickness of 1 nanometer to 1 micrometer, and at least the interfaces of the layers may be of a discrete or a blended or graded composition. 6 figs.

Boron containing multilayer coatings and method of fabrication

DOEpatents

Makowiecki, Daniel M.; Jankowski, Alan F.

1997-01-01

Hard coatings are fabricated from multilayer boron/boron carbide, boron carbide/cubic boron nitride, and boron/boron nitride/boron carbide, and the fabrication thereof involves magnetron sputtering in a selected atmosphere. These hard coatings may be applied to tools and engine and other parts, as well to reduce wear on tribological surfaces and electronic devices. These boron coatings contain no morphological growth features. For example, the boron and boron carbide used in forming the multilayers are formed in an inert (e.g. argon) atmosphere, while the cubic boron nitride is formed in a reactive (e.g. nitrogen) atmosphere. The multilayer boron/boron carbide, and boron carbide/cubic boron nitride is produced by depositing alternate layers of boron, cubic boron nitride or boron carbide, with the alternate layers having a thickness of 1 nanometer to 1 micrometer, and at least the interfaces of the layers may be of a discrete or a blended or graded composition.

Ceramic material suitable for repair of a space vehicle component in a microgravity and vacuum environment, method of making same, and method of repairing a space vehicle component

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Riedell, James A. (Inventor); Easler, Timothy E. (Inventor)

2009-01-01

A precursor of a ceramic adhesive suitable for use in a vacuum, thermal, and microgravity environment. The precursor of the ceramic adhesive includes a silicon-based, preceramic polymer and at least one ceramic powder selected from the group consisting of aluminum oxide, aluminum nitride, boron carbide, boron oxide, boron nitride, hafnium boride, hafnium carbide, hafnium oxide, lithium aluminate, molybdenum silicide, niobium carbide, niobium nitride, silicon boride, silicon carbide, silicon oxide, silicon nitride, tin oxide, tantalum boride, tantalum carbide, tantalum oxide, tantalum nitride, titanium boride, titanium carbide, titanium oxide, titanium nitride, yttrium oxide, zirconium diboride, zirconium carbide, zirconium oxide, and zirconium silicate. Methods of forming the ceramic adhesive and of repairing a substrate in a vacuum and microgravity environment are also disclosed, as is a substrate repaired with the ceramic adhesive.

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

Liu Yong; Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996; Liu Fengxiao

Cemented carbides with a functionally graded structure have significantly improved mechanical properties and lifetimes in cutting, drilling and molding. In this work, WC-6 wt.% Co cemented carbides with three-layer graded structure (surface layer rich in WC, mid layer rich in Co and the inner part of the average composition) were prepared by carburizing pre-sintered {eta}-phase-containing cemented carbides. The three-point bending fatigue tests based on the total-life approach were conducted on both WC-6wt%Co functionally graded cemented carbides (FGCC) and conventional WC-6wt%Co cemented carbides. The functionally graded cemented carbide shows a slightly higher fatigue limit ({approx}100 MPa) than the conventional ones undermore » the present testing conditions. However, the fatigue crack nucleation behavior of FGCC is different from that of the conventional ones. The crack nucleates preferentially along the Co-gradient and perpendicular to the tension surface in FGCC, while parallel to the tension surface in conventional cemented carbides.« less

Novel hard compositions and methods of preparation

DOEpatents

Sheinberg, Haskell

1983-08-23

Novel very hard compositions of matter are prepared by using in all embodiments only a minor amount of a particular carbide (or materials which can form the carbide in situ when subjected to heat and pressure); and no strategic cobalt is needed. Under a particular range of conditions, densified compositions of matter of the invention are prepared having hardnesses on the Rockwell A test substantially equal to the hardness of pure tungsten carbide and to two of the hardest commercial cobalt-bonded tungsten carbides. Alternately, other compositions of the invention which have slightly lower hardnesses than those described above in one embodiment also possess the advantage of requiring no tungsten and in another embodiment possess the advantage of having a good fracture toughness value. Photomicrographs show that the shapes of the grains of the alloy mixture with which the minor amount of carbide (or carbide-formers) is mixed are radically altered from large, rounded to small, very angular by the addition of the carbide. Superiority of one of these hard compositions of matter over cobalt-bonded tungsten carbide for ultra-high pressure anvil applications was demonstrated.

Carbide Precipitation in 2.25 Cr-1 Mo Bainitic Steel: Effect of Heating and Isothermal Tempering Conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dépinoy, Sylvain; Toffolon-Masclet, Caroline; Urvoy, Stéphane; Roubaud, Justine; Marini, Bernard; Roch, François; Kozeschnik, Ernst; Gourgues-Lorenzon, Anne-Françoise

2017-05-01

The effect of the tempering heat treatment, including heating prior to the isothermal step, on carbide precipitation has been determined in a 2.25 Cr-1 Mo bainitic steel for thick-walled applications. The carbides were identified using their amount of metallic elements, morphology, nucleation sites, and diffraction patterns. The evolution of carbide phase fraction, morphology, and composition was investigated using transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, as well as thermodynamic calculations. Upon heating, retained austenite into the as-quenched material decomposes into ferrite and cementite. M7C3 carbides then nucleate at the interface between the cementite and the matrix, triggering the dissolution of cementite. M2C carbides precipitate separately within the bainitic laths during slow heating. M23C6 carbides precipitate at the interfaces (lath boundaries or prior austenite grain boundaries) and grow by attracting nearby chromium atoms, which results in the dissolution of M7C3 and, depending on the temperature, coarsening, or dissolution of M2C carbides, respectively.

Novel hard compositions and methods of preparation

DOEpatents

Sheinberg, H.

1983-08-23

Novel very hard compositions of matter are prepared by using in all embodiments only a minor amount of a particular carbide (or materials which can form the carbide in situ when subjected to heat and pressure); and no strategic cobalt is needed. Under a particular range of conditions, densified compositions of matter of the invention are prepared having hardnesses on the Rockwell A test substantially equal to the hardness of pure tungsten carbide and to two of the hardest commercial cobalt-bonded tungsten carbides. Alternately, other compositions of the invention which have slightly lower hardnesses than those described above in one embodiment also possess the advantage of requiring no tungsten and in another embodiment possess the advantage of having a good fracture toughness value. Photomicrographs show that the shapes of the grains of the alloy mixture with which the minor amount of carbide (or carbide-formers) is mixed are radically altered from large, rounded to small, very angular by the addition of the carbide. Superiority of one of these hard compositions of matter over cobalt-bonded tungsten carbide for ultra-high pressure anvil applications was demonstrated. 3 figs.

Effect of electroslag remelting on carbides in 8Cr13MoV martensitic stainless steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Qin-tian; Li, Jing; Shi, Cheng-bin; Yu, Wen-tao

2015-11-01

The effect of electroslag remelting (ESR) on carbides in 8Cr13MoV martensitic stainless steel was experimentally studied. Phases precipitated from liquid steel during solidification were calculated using the Thermo-Calc software. The carbon segregation was analyzed by original position analysis (OPA), and the carbides were analyzed by optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy- dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results indicated that more uniform carbon distribution and less segregation were obtained in the case of samples subjected to the ESR process. After ESR, the amount of netty carbides decreased significantly, and the chromium and vanadium contents in the grain-boundary carbides was reduced. The total area and average size of carbides were obviously smaller after the ESR process. In the sample subjected to ESR, the morphology of carbides changed from lamellar and angular to globular or lump, whereas the types of carbides did not change; both M23C6 and M7C3 were present before and after the ESR process.

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

Wang, Hongfen, E-mail: wanghongfen11@163.com; Wang, Zhiqi; Chen, Shougang

Molybdenum carbides with surfactants as carbon sources were prepared using the carbothermal reduction of the appropriate precursors (molybdenum oxides deposited on surfactant micelles) at 1023 K under hydrogen gas. The carburized products were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction and BET surface area measurements. From the SEM images, hollow microspherical and rod-like molybdenum carbides were observed. X-ray diffraction patterns showed that the annealing time of carburization had a large effect on the conversion of molybdenum oxides to molybdenum carbides. And BET surface area measurements indicated that the difference of carbon sources brought a big difference in specific surfacemore » areas of molybdenum carbides. - Graphical abstract: Molybdenum carbides having hollow microspherical and hollow rod-like morphologies that are different from the conventional monodipersed platelet-like morphologies. Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Molybdenum carbides were prepared using surfactants as carbon sources. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The kinds of surfactants affected the morphologies of molybdenum carbides. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The time of heat preservation at 1023 K affected the carburization process. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Molybdenum carbides with hollow structures had larger specific surface areas.« less

Formation Energies and Electronic Properties of Vanadium Carbides Found in High Strength Steel Alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Limmer, Krista; Medvedeva, Julia

2013-03-01

Carbide formation and stabilization in steels is of great interest owing to its effect on the microstructure and properties of the Fe-based alloys. The appearance of carbides with different metal/C ratios strongly depends on the carbon concentration, alloy composition as well as the heat treatment. Strong carbide-forming elements such as Ti, V, and Nb have been used in microalloyed steels; with VC showing an increased solubility in the iron matrix as compared with TiC and NbC. This allows for dissolution of the VC into the steel during heating and fine precipitation during cooling. In addition to VC, the primary vanadium carbide with cubic structure, a wide range of non-stoichiometric compositions VCy with y varying from 0.72 to 0.88, has been observed. This range includes two ordered compounds, V8C7 and V6C5. In this study, first-principles density functional theory (DFT) is employed to examine the stability of the binary carbides by calculating their formation energies. We compare the local structures (atomic coordination, bond distances and angles) and the density of states in optimized geometries of the carbides. Further, the effect of alloying additions, such as niobium and titanium, on the carbide stabilization is investigated. We determine the energetically preferable substitutional atom location in each carbide and study the impurity distribution as well as its role in the carbide formation energy and electronic structure.

Crystallographic characterizations of eutectic and secondary carbides in a Fe-12Cr-2.5Mo-1.5W-3V-1.25C alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Jing; Liu, Ligang; Feng, Yunli; Liu, Sha; Ren, Xuejun; Yang, Qingxiang

2017-03-01

In this work, the morphology and structures of the eutectic and secondary carbides in a new high chromium Fe-12Cr-2.5Mo-1.5W-3V-1.25C designed for cold-rolling work roll were systematically studied. The precipitated carbides inside the grains and along the grain boundaries were investigated with optical microscope, scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy and X-Ray diffraction. Selected area diffraction patterns have been successfully used to identify the crystal formation and lattice constants of the carbides with different alloying elements. The results show that the eutectic carbides precipitated contain MC and M2C distributed along the grain boundaries with dendrite feature. The composition and crystal structure analysis shows that the eutectic MC carbides contain VC and WC with a cubic and hexagonal crystal lattice structures respectively, while the eutectic M2C carbides predominantly contain V2C and Mo2C with orthorhombic and hexagonal crystal lattices respectively. The secondary carbides contain MC, M2C, M7C3 formed along the grain boundaries and their sizes are much larger than the eutectic carbides ones. The secondary M23C6 is much small (0.3-0.5μm) and is distributed dispersively inside the grain. Similar to the eutectic carbides, the secondary carbides also contain VC, WC, V2C, and Mo2C. M7C3 is hexagonal (Fe,Cr)7C3, while M23C6 is indexed to be in a cubic crystal form.

20 CFR 603.23 - What information must State UC agencies obtain from other agencies, and crossmatch with wage...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 3 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false What information must State UC agencies obtain from other agencies, and crossmatch with wage information, for purposes of an IEVS? 603.23 Section 603.23 Employees' Benefits EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF LABOR FEDERAL-STATE UNEMPLOYMENT COMPENSATION (UC) PROGRAM;...

Effects of defoliation in the developing leaf zone on young Populus Xeuramericana plants. II. Distribution of UC-photosynthate after defoliation

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

Bassman, J.H.; Dickmann, D.I.

Patterns of UC-photosynthate distribution in growth chamber-grown Populus xeuramericana cv. Negrito de Granada were determined 24 h, 3 weeks, and 5 weeks after defoliation in the developing leaf zone. Translocation patterns were determined by exposing leaves below, within, or above the defoliated zone to UCO2 and determining UC distribution within the plant after 48 h. Translocation patterns were altered within 24 h after defoliation. When leaves below or remaining tissue of leaves within the zone of defoliation were exposed to UCO2, a greater percentage of UC-photosynthate was transported to the expanding shoot and lateral branches and less to the rootsmore » in defoliated plants compared to controls. Little difference between defoliated and control plants and UC distribution occurred when new leaves produced subsequent to defoliation were exposed to UCO2. By 5 weeks after defoliation there was little difference in patterns of UC distribution between defoliated and control plants. These results substantiate biomass partitioning data which showed that a single defoliation of young poplar plants did not affect diameter or height growth, whereas leaf growth was stimulated and root growth reduced.« less

Epidemiology, demographic characteristics and prognostic predictors of ulcerative colitis

PubMed Central

da Silva, Bruno César; Lyra, Andre Castro; Rocha, Raquel; Santana, Genoile Oliveira

2014-01-01

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic disease characterized by diffuse inflammation of the mucosa of the colon and rectum. The hallmark clinical symptom of UC is bloody diarrhea. The clinical course is marked by exacerbations and remissions, which may occur spontaneously or in response to treatment changes or intercurrent illnesses. UC is most commonly diagnosed in late adolescence or early adulthood, but it can occur at any age. The incidence of UC has increased worldwide over recent decades, especially in developing nations. In contrast, during this period, therapeutic advances have improved the life expectancy of patients, and there has been a decrease in the mortality rate over time. It is important to emphasize that there is considerable variability in the phenotypic presentation of UC. Within this context, certain clinical and demographic characteristics are useful in identifying patients who tend to have more severe evolution of the disease and a poor prognosis. In this group of patients, better clinical surveillance and more intensive therapy may change the natural course of the disease. The aim of this article was to review the epidemiology and demographic characteristics of UC and the factors that may be associated with its clinical prognosis. PMID:25071340

Management of ulcerative colitis in Taiwan: consensus guideline of the Taiwan Society of Inflammatory Bowel Disease

PubMed Central

Wei, Shu-Chen; Chang, Ting-An; Chao, Te-Hsin; Chen, Jinn-Shiun; Chou, Jen-Wei; Chou, Yenn-Hwei; Chuang, Chiao-Hsiung; Hsu, Wen-Hung; Huang, Tien-Yu; Hsu, Tzu-Chi; Lin, Chun-Chi; Lin, Hung-Hsin; Lin, Jen-Kou; Lin, Wei-Chen; Ni, Yen-Hsuan; Shieh, Ming-Jium; Shih, I-Lun; Shun, Chia-Tung; Tsang, Yuk-Ming; Wang, Cheng-Yi; Wang, Horng-Yuan; Weng, Meng-Tzu; Wu, Deng-Chyang; Wu, Wen-Chieh; Yen, Hsu-Heng

2017-01-01

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory bowel disease characterized by chronic mucosal inflammation of the colon, and the prevalence and incidence of UC have been steadily increasing in Taiwan. A steering committee was established by the Taiwan Society of Inflammatory Bowel Disease to formulate statements on the diagnosis and management of UC taking into account currently available evidence and the expert opinion of the committee. Accurate diagnosis of UC requires thorough clinical, endoscopic, and histological assessment and careful exclusion of differential diagnoses, particularly infectious colitis. The goals of UC therapy are to induce and maintain remission, reduce the risk of complications, and improve quality of life. As outlined in the recommended treatment algorithm, choice of treatment is dictated by severity, extent, and course of disease. Patients should be evaluated for hepatitis B virus and tuberculosis infection prior to immunosuppressive treatment, especially with steroids and biologic agents, and should be regularly monitored for reactivation of latent infection. These consensus statements are also based on current local evidence with consideration of factors, and could be serve as concise and practical guidelines for supporting clinicians in the management of UC in Taiwan. PMID:28670225

Meta-analysis: the efficacy of rectal beclomethasone dipropionate vs. 5-aminosalicylic acid in mild to moderate distal ulcerative colitis.

PubMed

Manguso, F; Balzano, A

2007-07-01

Beclomethasone dipropionate (BDP) is a second-generation steroid with topical effects and minimal systemic activity for patients with ulcerative colitis (UC). To review all available literature to assess the efficacy of enema/foam BDP compared with enema/foam 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) in the control of left-sided mild-moderate UC. We selected randomized controlled trials of enema/foam BDP compared with enema/foam 5-ASA treatment in patients with UC. Two reviewers assessed trial quality and extracted data independently. Four trials involving 428 UC patients, 209 treated with 5-ASA (1-4 g o.d.) and 219 with BDP (3 mg o.d.), were included. Intention-to-treat analysis showed that 5-ASA induced improvement/remission of UC in 146 (69.9%) patients, while BDP in 143 (65.3%). The test for heterogeneity (Cochran Q) was not significant and Mantel-Haenszel pooled estimate of odds ratio was 1.23 (95% CI = 0.82-1.85). The results did not change when analysis was performed on a per-protocol basis. The randomized controlled trials identified in this review showed that rectal BDP has equal effect as 5-ASA to control symptoms in UC.

IL-7 differentially regulates cell cycle progression and HIV-1-based vector infection in neonatal and adult CD4+ T cells.

PubMed

Dardalhon, V; Jaleco, S; Kinet, S; Herpers, B; Steinberg, M; Ferrand, C; Froger, D; Leveau, C; Tiberghien, P; Charneau, P; Noraz, N; Taylor, N

2001-07-31

Differences in the immunological reactivity of umbilical cord (UC) and adult peripheral blood (APB) T cells are poorly understood. Here, we show that IL-7, a cytokine involved in lymphoid homeostasis, has distinct regulatory effects on APB and UC lymphocytes. Neither naive nor memory APB CD4(+) cells proliferated in response to IL-7, whereas naive UC CD4(+) lymphocytes underwent multiple divisions. Nevertheless, both naive and memory IL-7-treated APB T cells progressed into the G(1b) phase of the cell cycle, albeit at higher levels in the latter subset. The IL-7-treated memory CD4(+) lymphocyte population was significantly more susceptible to infection with an HIV-1-derived vector than dividing CD4(+) UC lymphocytes. However, activation through the T cell receptor rendered UC lymphocytes fully susceptible to HIV-1-based vector infection. These data unveil differences between UC and APB CD4(+) T cells with regard to IL-7-mediated cell cycle progression and HIV-1-based vector infectivity. This evidence indicates that IL-7 differentially regulates lymphoid homeostasis in adults and neonates.

IL-7 differentially regulates cell cycle progression and HIV-1-based vector infection in neonatal and adult CD4+ T cells

PubMed Central

Dardalhon, Valérie; Jaleco, Sara; Kinet, Sandrina; Herpers, Bjorn; Steinberg, Marcos; Ferrand, Christophe; Froger, Delphine; Leveau, Christelle; Tiberghien, Pierre; Charneau, Pierre; Noraz, Nelly; Taylor, Naomi

2001-01-01

Differences in the immunological reactivity of umbilical cord (UC) and adult peripheral blood (APB) T cells are poorly understood. Here, we show that IL-7, a cytokine involved in lymphoid homeostasis, has distinct regulatory effects on APB and UC lymphocytes. Neither naive nor memory APB CD4+ cells proliferated in response to IL-7, whereas naive UC CD4+ lymphocytes underwent multiple divisions. Nevertheless, both naive and memory IL-7-treated APB T cells progressed into the G1b phase of the cell cycle, albeit at higher levels in the latter subset. The IL-7-treated memory CD4+ lymphocyte population was significantly more susceptible to infection with an HIV-1-derived vector than dividing CD4+ UC lymphocytes. However, activation through the T cell receptor rendered UC lymphocytes fully susceptible to HIV-1-based vector infection. These data unveil differences between UC and APB CD4+ T cells with regard to IL-7-mediated cell cycle progression and HIV-1-based vector infectivity. This evidence indicates that IL-7 differentially regulates lymphoid homeostasis in adults and neonates. PMID:11470908

Decreased Plasma Histidine Level Predicts Risk of Relapse in Patients with Ulcerative Colitis in Remission

PubMed Central

Hisamatsu, Tadakazu; Ono, Nobukazu; Imaizumi, Akira; Mori, Maiko; Suzuki, Hiroaki; Uo, Michihide; Hashimoto, Masaki; Naganuma, Makoto; Matsuoka, Katsuyoshi; Mizuno, Shinta; Kitazume, Mina T.; Yajima, Tomoharu; Ogata, Haruhiko; Iwao, Yasushi; Hibi, Toshifumi; Kanai, Takanori

2015-01-01

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is characterized by chronic intestinal inflammation. Patients with UC have repeated remission and relapse. Clinical biomarkers that can predict relapse in UC patients in remission have not been identified. To facilitate the prediction of relapse of UC, we investigated the potential of novel multivariate indexes using statistical modeling of plasma free amino acid (PFAA) concentrations. We measured fasting PFAA concentrations in 369 UC patients in clinical remission, and 355 were observed prospectively for up to 1 year. Relapse rate within 1 year was 23% (82 of 355 patients). The age- and gender-adjusted hazard ratio for the lowest quartile compared with the highest quartile of plasma histidine concentration was 2.55 (95% confidence interval: 1.41–4.62; p = 0.0020 (log-rank), p for trend = 0.0005). We demonstrated that plasma amino acid profiles in UC patients in clinical remission can predict the risk of relapse within 1 year. Decreased histidine level in PFAAs was associated with increased risk of relapse. Metabolomics could be promising for the establishment of a non-invasive predictive marker in inflammatory bowel disease. PMID:26474176

XRCC1 Arg194Trp and Arg399Gln polymorphisms and arsenic methylation capacity are associated with urothelial carcinoma

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

Chiang, Chien-I; Huang, Ya-Li; Chen, Wei-Jen

The association between DNA repair gene polymorphisms and bladder cancer has been widely studied. However, few studies have examined the correlation between urothelial carcinoma (UC) and arsenic or its metabolites. The aim of this study was to examine the association between polymorphisms of the DNA repair genes, XRCC1 Arg194Trp, XRCC1 Arg399Gln, XRCC3 Thr241Met, and XPD Lys751Gln, with urinary arsenic profiles and UC. To this end, we conducted a hospital-based case–control study with 324 UC patients and 647 age- and gender-matched non-cancer controls. Genomic DNA was used to examine the genotype of XRCC1 Arg194Trp, XRCC1 Arg399Gln, XRCC3 Thr241Met, and XPD Lys751Glnmore » by PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis (PCR-RFLP). Urinary arsenic profiles were measured by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) linked with hydride generator and atomic absorption spectrometry. The XRCC1 399 Gln/Gln and 194 Arg/Trp and Trp/Trp genotypes were significantly related to UC, and the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95%CI) were 1.68 (1.03–2.75) and 0.66 (0.48–0.90), respectively. Participants with higher total urinary arsenic levels, a higher percentage of inorganic arsenic (InAs%) and a lower percentage of dimethylarsinic acid (DMA%) had a higher OR of UC. Participants carrying XRCC1 risk diplotypes G-C/G-C, A-C/A-C, and A-T/G-T, and who had higher total arsenic levels, higher InAs%, or lower DMA% compared to those with other XRCC1 diplotypes had a higher OR of UC. Our results suggest that the XRCC1 399 Gln/Gln and 194 Arg/Arg DNA repair genes play an important role in poor arsenic methylation capacity, thereby increasing the risk of UC in non-obvious arsenic exposure areas. - Highlights: • The XRCC1 399Gln/Gln genotype was significantly associated with increased OR of UC. • The XRCC1 194 Arg/Trp and Trp/Trp genotype had a significantly decreased OR of UC. • Combined effect of the XRCC1 genotypes and poor arsenic methylation capacity on UC.« less

A new criterion for predicting rolling-element fatigue lives of through-hardened steels

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chevalier, J. L.; Zaretsky, E. V.; Parker, R. J.

1972-01-01

A carbide factor was derived based upon a statistical analysis which related rolling-element fatigue life to the total number of residual carbide particles per unit area, median residual carbide size, and percent residual carbide area. An equation was experimentally determined which predicts material hardness as a function of temperature. The limiting temperatures of all of the materials studied were dependent on initial room temperature hardness and tempering temperature. An equation was derived combining the effects of material hardness, carbide factor, and bearing temperature to predict rolling-element bearing life.

COATED CARBON ELEMENT FOR USE IN NUCLEAR REACTORS AND THE PROCESS OF MAKING THE ELEMENT

DOEpatents

Pyle, R.J.; Allen, G.L.

1963-01-15

S>This patent relates to a carbide-nitride-carbide coating for carbon bodies that are to be subjected to a high temperature nuclear reactor atmosphere, and a method of applying the same. This coating is a highly efficient diffusion barrier and protects the C body from corrosion and erosion by the reactor atmosphere. Preferably, the innermost coating is Zr carbide, the middle coatlng is Zr nitride, and the outermost coating is a mixture of Zr and Nb carbide. The nitride coating acts as a diffusion barrier, while the innermost carbide bonds the nitride to the C body and prevents deleterious reaction between the nitride and C body. The outermost carbide coating protects the nitride coating from the reactor atmosphere. (AEC)

Compatibility of buffered uranium carbides with tungsten.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Phillips, W. M.

1971-01-01

Results of compatibility tests between tungsten and hyperstoichiometric uranium carbide alloys run at 1800 C for 1000 and 2500 hours. These tests compared tungsten-buffered uranium carbide with tungsten-buffered uranium-zirconium carbide. The zirconium carbide addition appeared to widen the homogeneity range of the uranium carbide, making additional carbon available for reaction. Reaction layers could be formed by either of two diffusion paths, one producing UWC2, while the second resulted in the formation of W2C. UWC2 acts as a diffusion barrier for carbon and slows the growth of the reaction layer with time, while carbon diffusion is relatively rapid in W2C, allowing equilibrium to be reached in less than 2500 hours at a temperature of 1800 C.

Reduced total serum bilirubin levels are associated with ulcerative colitis.

PubMed

Schieffer, Kathleen M; Bruffy, Shannon M; Rauscher, Richard; Koltun, Walter A; Yochum, Gregory S; Gallagher, Carla J

2017-01-01

Chronic inflammation associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) results in increased oxidative stress that damages the colonic microenvironment. Low levels of serum bilirubin, an endogenous antioxidant, have been associated with increased risk for Crohn's disease (CD). Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine whether total serum bilirubin levels are associated with ulcerative colitis (UC). We identified a retrospective case-control population (n = 6,649) from a single tertiary care center, Penn State Hershey Medical Center (PSU) and a validation cohort (n = 1,996) from Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center (VCU). Cases were age- and sex-matched to controls (PSU: CD n = 254, UC n = 187; VCU: CD n = 233, UC n = 124). Total serum bilirubin levels were obtained from de-identified medical records and segregated into quartiles. Logistic regression analysis was performed on each quartile of total serum bilirubin compared to the last quartile (highest bilirubin levels) to determine the association of total serum bilirubin with UC. Similar to CD patients, UC patients demonstrated reduced levels of total serum bilirubin compared to controls at PSU and VCU. The lowest quartile of total serum bilirubin was independently associated with UC for the PSU (OR: 1.98 [95% CI: 1.09-3.63]) and VCU cohorts (OR: 6.07 [95% CI: 3.01-12.75]). Lower levels of the antioxidant bilirubin may reduce the capability of UC patients to remove reactive oxygen species leading to an increase in intestinal injury. Therapeutics that reduce oxidative stress may be beneficial for these patients.

Decreased colonization of fecal Clostridium coccoides/Eubacterium rectale species from ulcerative colitis patients in an in vitro dynamic gut model with mucin environment.

PubMed

Vermeiren, Joan; Van den Abbeele, Pieter; Laukens, Debby; Vigsnaes, Louise Kristine; De Vos, Martine; Boon, Nico; Van de Wiele, Tom

2012-03-01

The mucus layer in the colon, acting as a barrier to prevent invasion of pathogens, is thinner and discontinuous in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC). A recent developed in vitro dynamic gut model, the M-SHIME, was used to compare long-term colonization of the mucin layer by the microbiota from six healthy volunteers (HV) and six UC patients and thus distinguish the mucin adhered from the luminal microbiota. Although under the same nutritional conditions, short-chain fatty acid production by the luminal communities from UC patients showed a tendency toward a lower butyrate production. A more in-depth community analysis of those microbial groups known to produce butyrate revealed that the diversity of the Clostridium coccoides/Eubacterium rectale and Clostridium leptum group, and counts of Faecalibacterium prausnitzii were lower in the luminal fractions of the UC samples. Counts of Roseburia spp. were lower in the mucosal fractions of the UC samples. qPCR analysis for butyryl-CoA:acetate CoA transferase, responsible for butyrate production, displayed a lower abundance in both the luminal and mucosal fractions of the UC samples. The M-SHIME model revealed depletion in butyrate producing microbial communities not restricted to the luminal but also in the mucosal samples from UC patients compared to HV. © 2011 Federation of European Microbiological Societies. Published by Blackwell Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved.

Long-term safety and tolerability of once-daily mesalamine granules in the maintenance of remission of ulcerative colitis.

PubMed

Lichtenstein, Gary R; Barrett, Andrew C; Bortey, Enoch; Paterson, Craig; Forbes, William P

2014-08-01

Ulcerative colitis (UC), a chronic, relapsing, and remitting inflammatory bowel disease, requires long-term treatment to maintain remission. In this study, the long-term safety and tolerability of mesalamine granules (MG) therapy was evaluated in the maintenance of UC remission. Previous prospective studies evaluating different oral mesalamine formulations have not exceeded a duration of 14 months. A phase 3, multicenter, 24-month, open-label extension study evaluating MG 1.5 g once daily in patients who achieved previous remission from mild to moderate UC was performed. Eligible patients had successfully participated in 1 of 2 previous 6-month double-blind, placebo-controlled trials or were new patients in remission. Safety assessments included monitoring of adverse events (AEs) and clinical laboratory tests. Risk of UC recurrence was assessed by the occurrence of UC-related AEs. Of the 393 patients enrolled (280 from the double-blind studies; 113 new patients), 388 were included in the safety population. The most common AEs included nasopharyngitis (13.9%), headache (11.6%), and diarrhea (10.8%), and the incidence of these events was generally lower in the MG group versus historical placebo group from the double-blind studies. Pancreatic, renal, and hepatic AEs occurred in 23 patients (5.9%). The risk of UC-related AEs was low and was maintained for 24 months during the open-label study. Once-daily MG has a favorable safety profile for the maintenance of remission for up to 2 years in patients with UC.

Benzylic rearrangement stable isotope labeling for quantitation of guanidino and ureido compounds in thyroid tissues by liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Fan, Ruo-Jing; Guan, Qing; Zhang, Fang; Leng, Jia-Peng; Sun, Tuan-Qi; Guo, Yin-Long

2016-02-18

Benzylic rearrangement stable isotope labeling (BRSIL) was explored to quantify the guanidino and ureido compounds (GCs and UCs). This method employed a common reagent, benzil, to label the guanidino and ureido groups through nucleophilic attacking then benzylic migrating. The use of BRSIL was investigated in the analysis of five GCs (creatine, l-arginine, homoarginine, 4-guanidinobutyric acid, and methylguanidine) and two UCs (urea and citrulline). The labeling was found simple and specific. The introduction of bi-phenyl group and the generation of nitrogen heterocyclic ring in the benzil-d0/d5 labeled GCs and UCs improved the retention behaviors in liquid chromatography (LC) and increased the sensitivity of electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI MS) detection. The fragment ion pairs of m/z 182/187 and m/z 210/215 from the benzil-d0/d5 tags facilitated the discovery of potential GCs and UCs candidates residing in biological matrices. The use of BRSIL combined with LC-ESI MS was applied for simultaneously quantitation of GCs and UCs in thyroid tissues. It was demonstrated that nine GCs and UCs were detected, six of which were further quantified based on corresponding standards. It was concluded that five GCs and UCs (l-arginine, homoarginine, 4-guanidinobutyric acid, methylguanidine, and citrulline) were statistically significantly different (p < 0.05) between the para-carcinoma and carcinoma thyroid tissue samples. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Relationship between serum interleukin-17 level and inflammatory bowel disease.

PubMed

Liu, Q L; Huang, L; Zhao, Q J; Li, Q; He, Z

2016-01-01

By detecting expression of interleukin (IL)-17A, IL-10 and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) in serum of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients, this study aims to analyze the effects of these factors on the pathogenesis of IBD. According to illness status, selected patients were divided into Crohn’s disease (CD) group (28 patients), ulcerative colitis (UC) group (74 patients) and normal control group (36 patients); enzymelinked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to detect IL-17A, IL-10 and IFN-γ levels in serum; immunohistochemical assay was used to detect local IL-17A expression in the colonic mucosa of each group. Clinical results showed that IL-17A content of the UC group and CD group was significantly higher than that of the normal control group (p less than 0.05); IL-17A content of the CD group was higher than that of the UC group (p>0.05). The UC group had the highest IL-10 content, and the difference between the UC group and other two groups had statistical significance (p less than 0.05); the difference of IL-10 content between UC group and normal control group had no statistical significance (p>0.05). There was no significant difference of IFN-γ level between the CD group and the UC group and normal control group (p>0.05), and no significant difference of IFN-γ level was shown between the CD group and the UC group (p>0.05). Both the CD and UC groups showed IL-17A positive staining in cytoplasm of lymphocyte, however no positive staining was found in any layer of intestinal mucosa of the normal control group. IL-17A was locally expressed in the colon of IBD patients in remission; furthermore, it also had high expression in serum; thus, there still existed high expression of pro-inflammatory factor, which might be related to relapse of IBD. Therefore, prevention of IL-17A may become a feasible therapy for IBD in the future.

Hybrid constructs for tridimensional correction of the thoracic spine in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a comparative analysis of universal clamps versus hooks.

PubMed

Ilharreborde, Brice; Even, Julien; Lefevre, Yan; Fitoussi, Franck; Presedo, Ana; Penneçot, Georges-François; Mazda, Keyvan

2010-02-01

Retrospective study of prospectively collected data. Compare Universal Clamps (UCs) and hooks for the thoracic correction of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). In scoliosis surgery, sagittal correction is as important as frontal correction due to the risk of junctional kyphosis. Compared to all-screw constructs, hybrid constructs with lumbar pedicle screws and thoracic hooks or sublaminar wires have been shown to achieve similar coronal correction while providing superior postoperative thoracic kyphosis. The authors used a novel sublaminar thoracic implant, the UC with improvements over sublaminar wires. Hybrid constructs using thoracic UCs were compared to those with thoracic hooks. This series involved 150 patients treated for AIS with hybrid constructs. A total of 75 consecutive patients operated from 2001 to 2003, who had thoracic hooks with in situ contouring, distraction, and compression (Group 1), were compared to 75 consecutive patients operated from 2004 to 2006, who had thoracic UCs with posteromedial translation (Group 2). All had intraoperative somatosensory/motor-evoked potential monitoring and at least 2-years follow-up. Except for follow-up (longer in Group 1), the 2 groups were similar before surgery. The UCs achieved better thoracic coronal correction (P < 0.001), Cincinnati index (P < 0.001), kyphosis (P = 0.02), and apical rotation (P < 0.001). In normokyphotic or hypokyphotic patients, the UC corrected thoracic kyphosis by 11.2 degrees (55%) versus 0.4 degrees (2%) achieved by hooks (P < 0.0001). These differences were stable at last follow-up. There were no intraoperative complications or changes in somatosensory/motor-evoked potentials. UC reduced operative time by 20% (60 minutes; P < 0.001) and blood loss by 23% (250 mL; P < 0.001). Although both of these hybrid constructs efficaciously corrected the coronal and axial deformities in AIS, the results of the UC technique were superior to those achieved with hooks in all 3 planes, especially the sagittal plane. Moreover, the UC technique is straightforward and safe, reducing both operative duration and blood loss.

Long Noncoding RNA uc002yug.2 Activates HIV-1 Latency through Regulation of mRNA Levels of Various RUNX1 Isoforms and Increased Tat Expression.

PubMed

Huan, Chen; Li, Zhaolong; Ning, Shanshan; Wang, Hong; Yu, Xiao-Fang; Zhang, Wenyan

2018-05-01

The HIV-1 reservoir is a major obstacle to complete eradication of the virus. Although many proteins and RNAs have been characterized as regulators in HIV-1/AIDS pathogenesis and latency, only a few long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been shown to be closely associated with HIV-1 replication and latency. In this study, we demonstrated that lncRNA uc002yug.2 plays a key role in HIV-1 replication and latency. uc002yug.2 potentially enhances HIV-1 replication, long terminal repeat (LTR) activity, and the activation of latent HIV-1 in both cell lines and CD4 + T cells from patients. Further investigation revealed that uc002yug.2 activates latent HIV-1 through downregulating RUNX1b and -1c and upregulating Tat protein expression. The accumulated evidence supports our model that the Tat protein has the key role in the uc002yug.2-mediated regulatory effect on HIV-1 reactivation. Moreover, uc002yug.2 showed an ability to activate HIV-1 similar to that of suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid or phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate using latently infected cell models. These findings improve our understanding of lncRNA regulation of HIV-1 replication and latency, providing new insights into potential targeted therapeutic interventions. IMPORTANCE The latent viral reservoir is the primary obstacle to curing HIV-1 disease. To date, only a few lncRNAs, which play major roles in various biological processes, including viral infection, have been identified as regulators in HIV-1 latency. In this study, we demonstrated that lncRNA uc002yug.2 is important for both HIV-1 replication and activation of latent viruses. Moreover, uc002yug.2 was shown to activate latent HIV-1 through regulating alternative splicing of RUNX1 and increasing the expression of Tat protein. These findings highlight the potential merit of targeting lncRNA uc002yug.2 as an activating agent for latent HIV-1. Copyright © 2018 American Society for Microbiology.

Ethnic variations in ulcerative colitis: Experience of an international hospital in Thailand.

PubMed

Permpoon, Vibhakorn; Pongpirul, Krit; Anuras, Sinn

2016-08-06

To investigate the clinical characteristics, treatment, medication use, and treatment response in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) across ethnic groups. This study retrospectively analyzed medical records of all 268465 patients who visited the Bumrungrad International Digestive Disease Center during 2005-2010. The demographics, clinical characteristics, medication use, results of investigations, and medical and surgical management for patients with UC were evaluated. Evaluation included sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy performed in compliance with the American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy practice guidelines. Patient ethnicities were categorized into seven groups: Thai, Oriental, South Asian (SA), Middle Eastern (ME), Caucasian, African, and Hispanic. UC pathological severity was classified into inactive, mild, moderate, and severe. Associations between categorical variables were analyzed using the χ(2) or Fischer's exact test. Associations between categorical and interval variables were analyzed using Student's t-test and/or analysis of covariance. UC was diagnosed in 371 of the 268465 patients: male 56.33%; ME 42%, Caucasian 23%, and Thai 19%. Annual incidence of UC was 82 cases per 100000 with wide ethnic variation, ranging from 29 to 206 cases per 100000 in Oriental and ME patients, respectively. Of the patients with UC, 16.71% had severe UC with highest incidence among the patients from ME (20.39%) and lowest among the Caucasian population (11.90%). ME had highest proportion of pancolitis (52.90%), followed by Caucasian (45.35%) and Asian (34.40%). Only 20.93% of Caucasian patients received steroid, compared with 26.40% and 27.10% of Asian and Middle Eastern, respectively (P = 0.732). Overall, 13.72% of UC patients did not respond to steroid therapy, with non-significantly higher proportions of non-responders among Asian and Middle Eastern patients (15.22% and 15.04%, respectively) (P = 0.781). On average, 5.93% underwent surgical management with ethnic variation, ranging from 0% in African to 18% in SA. Cancer was found in three (Thai, ME, and African) cases (0.82 institution-specific incidence). Incidence, symptom duration, pathological severity, clinical manifestations, medication use, treatment response, need for surgical consultation, and cancer incidence of patients with UC potentially vary by ethnicity.

Association of extraintestinal manifestations and anaemia with disease outcomes in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.

PubMed

Vegh, Zsuzsanna; Kurti, Zsuzsanna; Gonczi, Lorant; Golovics, Petra Anna; Lovasz, Barbara Dorottya; Szita, Istvan; Balogh, Mihaly; Pandur, Tunde; Vavricka, Stephan R; Rogler, Gerhard; Lakatos, Laszlo; Lakatos, Peter Laszlo

2016-07-01

The association between extraintestinal manifestations (EIMs) and disease activity suggest a common pathogenetic link with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). We report on the association of EIMs and anaemia with long-term disease outcomes, including treatment steps, hospitalization, and surgery in the prospective population-based IBD inception cohort from Veszprem province. Data of 678 incident IBD patients (Crohn's disease/ulcerative colitis(CD/UC): 331/347) diagnosed from 1st January 2000 to 31st December 2012 were analyzed (CD: m/f: 176/155, median age at diagnosis: 28, IQR: 21-40 years, disease duration: 6, IQR: 2-9 years; UC: m/f: 200/147, median age at diagnosis: 36, IQR: 26-50 years, duration: 7, IQR: 4-10 years). EIMs were present in 30% of the CD and 17.3% of the UC patients. In CD, female gender (p = 0.02) need for steroid (p  < 0.001) and azathioprine (AZA) (p = 0.02), while in UC, young age at onset (p = 0.03), extensive disease (p = 0.003), female gender (p = 0.07), need for steroids (p < 0.001) and AZA (p = 0.004) and need for IBD-related hospitalization (p = 0.01) were associated with the presence of EIMs. Anaemia was present in 56.7% of the CD and 30.2% of the UC patients. In both CD and UC anaemia was associated with age at onset (pCD = 0.001, pUC = 0.04), disease location/extent (pCD = 0.02, pUC < 0.001), steroid and AZA use (for both pCD,UC < 0.001), need for surgery/colectomy (pCD < 0.001, pUC = 0.002) and hospitalization (pCD = 0.004, pUC < 0.001) and in CD, it was associated with anti TNF therapy(p = 0.002). The presence of EIMs was associated with disease phenotype in UC and with treatment strategy in both CD and UC. Additionally, anaemia was associated with hospitalization and surgery in both CD and UC, suggesting that EIMs and anaemia may be helpful in stratifying disease severity in IBD.

Fat intake and risk of ulcerative colitis: Systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of epidemiological studies.

PubMed

Wang, Fan; Lin, Xue; Zhao, Qiu; Li, Jin

2017-01-01

Fat intake is generally thought as a risk factor for onset of ulcerative colitis (UC), while epidemiological data had been controversial. This study aimed to evaluate the role of fat intake in the development of UC. Comprehensive search in PubMed and Embase was conducted to identify all relevant studies, and the role of fat intake in the development of UC was quantitatively assessed by dose-response meta-analysis. Nine studies (four case-control and five prospective cohort) were indentified with a total of 966 UC cases and 171 589 controls. No evidence of a nonlinear dose-response association was found between fat intake and UC risk. Overall, the summary relative risks (RR) for per 30 g increment/day were 1.023 (95%confidence interval [CI]: 0.963-1.087; I 2  = 24%; n = 6) for total fat intake, 1.063 (95%CI: 0.845-1.337; I 2  = 44.5%; n = 4) for saturated fat intake, 1.214 (95%CI: 0.911-1.618; I 2  = 63.1%; n = 4) for monounsaturated fat (MUFA) intake, and 1.247 (95%CI: 0.948-1.640; I 2  = 25.4%; n = 4) for polyunsaturated fat (PUFA) intake, respectively. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses showed inconsistent results on PUFA intake, which was significantly related with UC risk after adjusting for smoking (RR: 1.617, 95%CI: 1.045-2.502; I 2  = 0%; n = 3). For PUFA and MUFA subtypes, no subtypes were significantly associated with UC risk (P > 0.05), and only docosahexaenoic acid showed a potential protective effect in the development of UC (RR for the highest versus lowest intake level: 0.642, 95%CI: 0.403-1.024; I 2  = 34.4%; n = 3) CONCLUSIONS: This meta-analysis suggested a lack of association between fat intake and UC risk, and large-scale prospective designed studies are warranted to confirm our findings. © 2016 Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Foundation and John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.

Characterization of transition carbides in quench and partitioned steel microstructures by Mössbauer spectroscopy and complementary techniques

DOE PAGES

Pierce, D. T.; Coughlin, D. R.; Williamson, D. L.; ...

2015-05-01

Quenching and partitioning (Q&P) produces steel microstructures with martensite and austenite that exhibit promising property combinations for third generation advanced high strength steels. Understanding the kinetics of reactions that compete for available carbon, such as carbide formation, is critical for alloying and processing design and achieving austenite enrichment and retention during Q&P. Mössbauer effect spectroscopy (MES) was used to characterize Q&P microstructures in a 0.38C-1.54Mn-1.48Si wt.% steel after quenching to 225 °C and partitioning at 400 °C for 10 or 300 s, with an emphasis on transition carbides. The recoilless fraction for η-carbide was calculated and a correction for saturationmore » of the MES absorption spectrum was applied, making quantitative measurements of small amounts of η-carbide, including non-stoichiometric η-carbide, possible in Q&P microstructures. Complementary transmission electron microscopy confirmed the presence of η-carbides, and MES and X-ray diffraction were used to characterize the austenite. The amount of η-carbide formed during Q&P ranged from 1.4 to 2.4 at.%, accounting for a substantial portion (~24% to 41%) of the bulk carbon content of the steel. The amount (5.0 at.%) of η-carbide that formed after quenching and tempering (Q&T) at 400 °C for 300 s was significantly greater than after partitioning at 400 °C for 300 s (2.4 at.%), suggesting that carbon partitioning from martensite to austenite occurs in conjunction with η-carbide formation during Q&P in these specimens.« less

A silicon carbide array for electrocorticography and peripheral nerve recording.

PubMed

Diaz-Botia, C A; Luna, L E; Neely, R M; Chamanzar, M; Carraro, C; Carmena, J M; Sabes, P N; Maboudian, R; Maharbiz, M M

2017-10-01

Current neural probes have a limited device lifetime of a few years. Their common failure mode is the degradation of insulating films and/or the delamination of the conductor-insulator interfaces. We sought to develop a technology that does not suffer from such limitations and would be suitable for chronic applications with very long device lifetimes. We developed a fabrication method that integrates polycrystalline conductive silicon carbide with insulating silicon carbide. The technology employs amorphous silicon carbide as the insulator and conductive silicon carbide at the recording sites, resulting in a seamless transition between doped and amorphous regions of the same material, eliminating heterogeneous interfaces prone to delamination. Silicon carbide has outstanding chemical stability, is biocompatible, is an excellent molecular barrier and is compatible with standard microfabrication processes. We have fabricated silicon carbide electrode arrays using our novel fabrication method. We conducted in vivo experiments in which electrocorticography recordings from the primary visual cortex of a rat were obtained and were of similar quality to those of polymer based electrocorticography arrays. The silicon carbide electrode arrays were also used as a cuff electrode wrapped around the sciatic nerve of a rat to record the nerve response to electrical stimulation. Finally, we demonstrated the outstanding long term stability of our insulating silicon carbide films through accelerated aging tests. Clinical translation in neural engineering has been slowed in part due to the poor long term performance of current probes. Silicon carbide devices are a promising technology that may accelerate this transition by enabling truly chronic applications.

A silicon carbide array for electrocorticography and peripheral nerve recording

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Diaz-Botia, C. A.; Luna, L. E.; Neely, R. M.; Chamanzar, M.; Carraro, C.; Carmena, J. M.; Sabes, P. N.; Maboudian, R.; Maharbiz, M. M.

2017-10-01

Objective. Current neural probes have a limited device lifetime of a few years. Their common failure mode is the degradation of insulating films and/or the delamination of the conductor-insulator interfaces. We sought to develop a technology that does not suffer from such limitations and would be suitable for chronic applications with very long device lifetimes. Approach. We developed a fabrication method that integrates polycrystalline conductive silicon carbide with insulating silicon carbide. The technology employs amorphous silicon carbide as the insulator and conductive silicon carbide at the recording sites, resulting in a seamless transition between doped and amorphous regions of the same material, eliminating heterogeneous interfaces prone to delamination. Silicon carbide has outstanding chemical stability, is biocompatible, is an excellent molecular barrier and is compatible with standard microfabrication processes. Main results. We have fabricated silicon carbide electrode arrays using our novel fabrication method. We conducted in vivo experiments in which electrocorticography recordings from the primary visual cortex of a rat were obtained and were of similar quality to those of polymer based electrocorticography arrays. The silicon carbide electrode arrays were also used as a cuff electrode wrapped around the sciatic nerve of a rat to record the nerve response to electrical stimulation. Finally, we demonstrated the outstanding long term stability of our insulating silicon carbide films through accelerated aging tests. Significance. Clinical translation in neural engineering has been slowed in part due to the poor long term performance of current probes. Silicon carbide devices are a promising technology that may accelerate this transition by enabling truly chronic applications.

SOLID SOLUTION CARBIDES ARE THE KEY FUELS FOR FUTURE NUCLEAR THERMAL PROPULSION

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Panda, Binayak; Hickman, Robert R.; Shah, Sandeep

2005-01-01

Nuclear thermal propulsion uses nuclear energy to directly heat a propellant (such as liquid hydrogen) to generate thrust for space transportation. In the 1960 s, the early Rover/Nuclear Engine for Rocket Propulsion Application (NERVA) program showed very encouraging test results for space nuclear propulsion but, in recent years, fuel research has been dismal. With NASA s renewed interest in long-term space exploration, fuel researchers are now revisiting the RoverMERVA findings, which indicated several problems with such fuels (such as erosion, chemical reaction of the fuel with propellant, fuel cracking, and cladding issues) that must be addressed. It is also well known that the higher the temperature reached by a propellant, the larger the thrust generated from the same weight of propellant. Better use of fuel and propellant requires development of fuels capable of reaching very high temperatures. Carbides have the highest melting points of any known material. Efforts are underway to develop carbide mixtures and solid solutions that contain uranium carbide, in order to achieve very high fuel temperatures. Binary solid solution carbides (U, Zr)C have proven to be very effective in this regard. Ternary carbides such as (U, Zr, X) carbides (where X represents Nb, Ta, W, and Hf) also hold great promise as fuel material, since the carbide mixtures in solid solution generate a very hard and tough compact material. This paper highlights past experience with early fuel materials and bi-carbides, technical problems associated with consolidation of the ingredients, and current techniques being developed to consolidate ternary carbides as fuel materials.

Solid oxide membrane-assisted controllable electrolytic fabrication of metal carbides in molten salt.

PubMed

Zou, Xingli; Zheng, Kai; Lu, Xionggang; Xu, Qian; Zhou, Zhongfu

2016-08-15

Silicon carbide (SiC), titanium carbide (TiC), zirconium carbide (ZrC), and tantalum carbide (TaC) have been electrochemically produced directly from their corresponding stoichiometric metal oxides/carbon (MOx/C) precursors by electrodeoxidation in molten calcium chloride (CaCl2). An assembled yttria stabilized zirconia solid oxide membrane (SOM)-based anode was employed to control the electrodeoxidation process. The SOM-assisted controllable electrochemical process was carried out in molten CaCl2 at 1000 °C with a potential of 3.5 to 4.0 V. The reaction mechanism of the electrochemical production process and the characteristics of these produced metal carbides (MCs) were systematically investigated. X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy analyses clearly identify that SiC, TiC, ZrC, and TaC carbides can be facilely fabricated. SiC carbide can be controlled to form a homogeneous nanowire structure, while the morphologies of TiC, ZrC, and TaC carbides exhibit porous nodular structures with micro/nanoscale particles. The complex chemical/electrochemical reaction processes including the compounding, electrodeoxidation, dissolution-electrodeposition, and in situ carbonization processes in molten CaCl2 are also discussed. The present results preliminarily demonstrate that the molten salt-based SOM-assisted electrodeoxidation process has the potential to be used for the facile and controllable electrodeoxidation of MOx/C precursors to micro/nanostructured MCs, which can potentially be used for various applications.

A Novel Method to Calculate the Carbides Fraction from Dilatometric Measurements During Cooling in Hot-Work Tool Steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Xiaoli; Li, Chuanwei; Han, Lizhan; Gu, Jianfeng

2018-06-01

Dilatometry is a useful technique to obtain experimental data concerning transformation. In this paper, a dilation conversional model was established to calculate carbides fraction in AISI H13 hot-work tool steel based on the measured length changes. After carbides precipitation, the alloy contents in the matrix changed. In the usual models, the content of carbon atoms after precipitation is considered as the only element that affects the lattice constant and the content of the alloy elements such as Cr, Mo, Mn, V are often ignored. In the model introduced in this paper, the alloying elements (Cr, Mo, Mn, V) changes caused by carbides precipitation are incorporated. The carbides were identified using scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope. The relationship between lattice constant of carbides and temperature are measured by high-temperature X-ray diffraction. The results indicate that the carbides observed in all specimens cooled at different rates are V-rich MC and Cr-rich M23C6, and most of them are V-rich MC, only very few are Cr-rich M23C6. The model including the effects of substitutional alloying elements shows a good improvement on carbides fraction predictions. In addition, lower cooling rate advances the carbides precipitation for AISI H13 specimens. The results between experiments and mathematical model agree well.

New Structural Materials

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-03-25

3887) Tantalum Carbide (TaC) 4150 (3877) Niobium Carbide 4023 (3750) Carbon (Graphite) 3970 (3697) Zirconium Carbide 3805 (3532) Tungsten 3643 3643...process. Some fibers, especially those made of tungsten , silicon carbide, and zirconia, survived the reaction conditions. However, the ceramic bodies...displayed cracks and voids. Examination by SEM of cross’sections of the reacted parts made with tungsten fibers disclosed the presence of "whiskers

Co-precipitated and collocated carbides and Cu-rich precipitates in a Fe-Cu steel characterized by atom-probe tomography.

PubMed

Kolli, R Prakash; Seidman, David N

2014-12-01

The composition of co-precipitated and collocated NbC carbide precipitates, Fe3C iron carbide (cementite), and Cu-rich precipitates are studied experimentally by atom-probe tomography (APT). The Cu-rich precipitates located at a grain boundary (GB) are also studied. The APT results for the carbides are supplemented with computational thermodynamics predictions of composition at thermodynamic equilibrium. Two types of NbC carbide precipitates are distinguished based on their stoichiometric ratio and size. The Cu-rich precipitates at the periphery of the iron carbide and at the GB are larger than those distributed in the α-Fe (body-centered cubic) matrix, which is attributed to short-circuit diffusion of Cu along the GB. Manganese segregation is not observed at the heterophase interfaces of the Cu-rich precipitates that are located at the periphery of the iron carbide or at the GB, which is unlike those located at the edge of the NbC carbide precipitates or distributed in the α-Fe matrix. This suggests the presence of two populations of NiAl-type (B2 structure) phases at the heterophase interfaces in multicomponent Fe-Cu steels.

Austenite decomposition to carbide-rich products in Fe-0.30C-6.3W

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hackenberg, R. E.; Granada, D. G.; Shiflet, G. J.

2002-12-01

The kinetics, morphology, and elemental distributions associated with the decomposition of austenite in Fe-0.30C-6.3W were surveyed, especially in the bay region of the time-temperature-transformation (TTT) diagram. Carbide precipitation characteristics were of particular interest. Similar to Fe-C-Mo and Fe-C-Cr alloys, grain- and twin-boundary bainite containing sheets of alloy carbides dominated the microstructure at and above the bay, while popcorn-like bainite was observed immediately below the bay. Nonequilibrium carbide-phase combinations were obtained both above and below the bay, although W partitioning to the alloy carbides was always observed. The carbon level in the remaining austenite increased with reaction time at a given temperature, which, at the later stages of reaction, helped trigger the growth of a constituent containing a high density of nonlamellar carbides. These nonequilibrium reaction-path characteristics are considered to originate from crystallographic and interfacial structure constraints affecting the nucleation of carbides at ferrite-austenite interfaces.

Undenatured type II collagen (UC-II®) for joint support: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in healthy volunteers

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background UC-II contains a patented form of undenatured type II collagen derived from chicken sternum. Previous preclinical and clinical studies support the safety and efficacy of UC-II in modulating joint discomfort in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy and tolerability of UC-II in moderating joint function and joint pain due to strenuous exercise in healthy subjects. Methods This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted in healthy subjects who had no prior history of arthritic disease or joint pain at rest but experienced joint discomfort with physical activity. Fifty-five subjects who reported knee pain after participating in a standardized stepmill performance test were randomized to receive placebo (n = 28) or the UC-II (40 mg daily, n = 27) product for 120 days. Joint function was assessed by changes in degree of knee flexion and knee extension as well as measuring the time to experiencing and recovering from joint pain following strenuous stepmill exertion. Results After 120 days of supplementation, subjects in the UC-II group exhibited a statistically significant improvement in average knee extension compared to placebo (81.0 ± 1.3º vs 74.0 ± 2.2º; p = 0.011) and to baseline (81.0 ± 1.3º vs 73.2 ± 1.9º; p = 0.002). The UC-II cohort also demonstrated a statistically significant change in average knee extension at day 90 (78.8 ± 1.9º vs 73.2 ± 1.9º; p = 0.045) versus baseline. No significant change in knee extension was observed in the placebo group at any time. It was also noted that the UC-II group exercised longer before experiencing any initial joint discomfort at day 120 (2.8 ± 0.5 min, p = 0.019), compared to baseline (1.4 ± 0.2 min). By contrast, no significant changes were seen in the placebo group. No product related adverse events were observed during the study. At study conclusion, five individuals in the UC-II cohort reported no pain during or after the stepmill protocol (p = 0.031, within visit) as compared to one subject in the placebo group. Conclusions Daily supplementation with 40 mg of UC-II was well tolerated and led to improved knee joint extension in healthy subjects. UC-II also demonstrated the potential to lengthen the period of pain free strenuous exertion and alleviate the joint pain that occasionally arises from such activities. PMID:24153020

Undenatured type II collagen (UC-II®) for joint support: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in healthy volunteers.

PubMed

Lugo, James P; Saiyed, Zainulabedin M; Lau, Francis C; Molina, Jhanna Pamela L; Pakdaman, Michael N; Shamie, Arya Nick; Udani, Jay K

2013-10-24

UC-II contains a patented form of undenatured type II collagen derived from chicken sternum. Previous preclinical and clinical studies support the safety and efficacy of UC-II in modulating joint discomfort in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy and tolerability of UC-II in moderating joint function and joint pain due to strenuous exercise in healthy subjects. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted in healthy subjects who had no prior history of arthritic disease or joint pain at rest but experienced joint discomfort with physical activity. Fifty-five subjects who reported knee pain after participating in a standardized stepmill performance test were randomized to receive placebo (n = 28) or the UC-II (40 mg daily, n = 27) product for 120 days. Joint function was assessed by changes in degree of knee flexion and knee extension as well as measuring the time to experiencing and recovering from joint pain following strenuous stepmill exertion. After 120 days of supplementation, subjects in the UC-II group exhibited a statistically significant improvement in average knee extension compared to placebo (81.0 ± 1.3º vs 74.0 ± 2.2º; p = 0.011) and to baseline (81.0 ± 1.3º vs 73.2 ± 1.9º; p = 0.002). The UC-II cohort also demonstrated a statistically significant change in average knee extension at day 90 (78.8 ± 1.9º vs 73.2 ± 1.9º; p = 0.045) versus baseline. No significant change in knee extension was observed in the placebo group at any time. It was also noted that the UC-II group exercised longer before experiencing any initial joint discomfort at day 120 (2.8 ± 0.5 min, p = 0.019), compared to baseline (1.4 ± 0.2 min). By contrast, no significant changes were seen in the placebo group. No product related adverse events were observed during the study. At study conclusion, five individuals in the UC-II cohort reported no pain during or after the stepmill protocol (p = 0.031, within visit) as compared to one subject in the placebo group. Daily supplementation with 40 mg of UC-II was well tolerated and led to improved knee joint extension in healthy subjects. UC-II also demonstrated the potential to lengthen the period of pain free strenuous exertion and alleviate the joint pain that occasionally arises from such activities.