Proceedings of a Seminar on Applications in Water Quality Control Held at Portland, Oregon on 31 January - 1 February 1984,

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-02-01

of Proposed Discharge of Dredged Material into Ocean Waters; Implementation Manual for Section 103 of Public Law 92-532 ( Marine Pro- tection, Research...J Council of Governments, a regional planning agency for much of the Falls watershed area. was the nation’s first recipient of an EPA Section 208...the upper and lower sections of the reservoir, respectively. Chlorophyll a levels were predicted to be 110 and 42 ug/1 for the upper and lower

Serum levels of zinc and copper in epileptic children during long-term therapy with anticonvulsants.

PubMed

Talat, Mohamed A; Ahmed, Anwar; Mohammed, Lamia

2015-10-01

To evaluate the serum levels of zinc and copper in epileptic children during the long-term treatment of anticonvulsant drugs and correlate this with healthy subjects. A hospital-based group matched case-control study was conducted in the Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt between November 2013 and October 2014. Ninety patients aged 7.1 ± 3.6 years were diagnosed with epilepsy by a neurologist. The control group was selected from healthy individuals and matched to the case group. Serum zinc and copper were measured by the calorimetric method using a colorimetric method kit. The mean zinc level was 60.1 ± 22.6 ug/dl in the cases, and 102.1 ± 18 ug/dl in the controls (p<0.001). The mean copper level was 180.1 ± 32.4 ug/dl in cases compared with 114.5 ± 18.5 ug/dl in controls (p<0.001). Serum zinc levels in epileptic children under drug treatment are lower compared with healthy children. Also, serum copper levels in these patients are significantly higher than in healthy people. No significant difference in the levels of serum copper and zinc was observed in using one drug or multiple drugs in the treatment of epileptic patients.

Serum levels of zinc and copper in epileptic children during long-term therapy with anticonvulsants

PubMed Central

Talat, Mohamed A.; Ahmed, Anwar; Mohammed, Lamia

2015-01-01

Objective: To evaluate the serum levels of zinc and copper in epileptic children during the long-term treatment of anticonvulsant drugs and correlate this with healthy subjects. Methods: A hospital-based group matched case-control study was conducted in the Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt between November 2013 and October 2014. Ninety patients aged 7.1±3.6 years were diagnosed with epilepsy by a neurologist. The control group was selected from healthy individuals and matched to the case group. Serum zinc and copper were measured by the calorimetric method using a colorimetric method kit. Results: The mean zinc level was 60.1±22.6 ug/dl in the cases, and 102.1±18 ug/dl in the controls (p<0.001). The mean copper level was 180.1±32.4 ug/dl in cases compared with 114.5±18.5 ug/dl in controls (p<0.001). Conclusion: Serum zinc levels in epileptic children under drug treatment are lower compared with healthy children. Also, serum copper levels in these patients are significantly higher than in healthy people. No significant difference in the levels of serum copper and zinc was observed in using one drug or multiple drugs in the treatment of epileptic patients. PMID:26492112

Modeled summer background concentration nutrients and ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

We used regression models to predict background concentration of four water quality indictors: total nitrogen (N), total phosphorus (P), chloride, and total suspended solids (TSS), in the mid-continent (USA) great rivers, the Upper Mississippi, the Lower Missouri, and the Ohio. From best-model linear regressions of water quality indicators with land use and other stressor variables, we determined the concentration of the indicators when the land use and stressor variables were all set to zero the y-intercept. Except for total P on the Upper Mississippi River and chloride on the Ohio River, we were able to predict background concentration from significant regression models. In every model with more than one predictor variable, the model included at least one variable representing agricultural land use and one variable representing development. Predicted background concentration of total N was the same on the Upper Mississippi and Lower Missouri rivers (350 ug l-1), which was much lower than a published eutrophication threshold and percentile-based thresholds (25th percentile of concentration at all sites in the population) but was similar to a threshold derived from the response of sestonic chlorophyll a to great river total N concentration. Background concentration of total P on the Lower Missouri (53 ug l-1) was also lower than published and percentile-based thresholds. Background TSS concentration was higher on the Lower Missouri (30 mg l-1) than the other ri

Human neutral brush border endopeptidase EC 3.4.24.11 in urine, its isolation, characterisation and activity in renal diseases.

PubMed

Vlaskou, D; Hofmann, W; Guder, W G; Siskos, P A; Dionyssiou-Asteriou, A

2000-07-01

Human neutral brush border endopeptidase (NEP) was purified from the urine of patients suffering from acute toxic tubulointerstitial nephropathy. An enzyme preparation with specific activity of 102 Ug(-1) protein was obtained. The urinary activities of neutral endopeptidase and alanine aminopeptidase were measured in patients with renal disease and in 30 control patients, resulting in a reference range from 0.1 to 0.7 Ug(-1) creatinine and 1.4-14.1 Ug(-1) creatinine, respectively. Urine enzyme activities were highest in patients with acute tubulotoxic renal diseases. Neutral endopeptidase and alanine aminopeptidase activities were found to be 6.5- and 10-fold higher than the upper value of the reference range, respectively. Smaller increases in the rate of excretion of these enzymes (2.5- and 3.5-fold), respectively, were observed in patients suffering from acute tubular insufficiency and even lower increases, 2- and 1.5-fold, respectively, were observed in patients with chronic renal diseases. In diabetics and kidney transplant patients the enzyme excretion rates were within the reference range. Assay of both transmembrane metalloproteinases in urine may prove valuable in serving as markers for renal toxicity. Together with beta-NAG these enzymes could be employed as differentiation markers between acute and chronic tubular insufficiency.

Evaluation of PGE Liberation and Chromium Isolation in a Solid UG2 Chromitite Concentrates at Moderate Temperatures Using ICP-OES

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chiweshe, Trevor T.; Purcell, Walter; Venter, Johan A.

2016-06-01

Complete sample digestion is a prerequisite in achieving accurate and reproducible results in wet chemical analysis as well as effective element recovery in hydrometallurgical beneficiation processes. Inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy was used to evaluate the efficiency of (NH4)2HPO4/(NH4)H2PO4, Na2HPO4/NaH2PO4·H2O (800°C), NH4F·HF flux (250°C), microwave dissolution using HCl and aqua regia acids (240°C) to dissolve and liberate the platinum group metals (PGE) in a Upper Group 2 (UG2) chromitite concentrate sample. Complete digestion of the UG2 chromitite ore was achieved using Na2HPO4/NaH2PO4·H2O and (NH4)2HPO4/(NH4)H2PO4 flux mixtures and average PGE (Ru, Os and Pt) yields of 1.90 g/kg (Ru), 0.88 g/kg (Os), 2.52 g/kg (Pt) were obtained using Sc as internal standard. Fusion with NH4F·HF yielded 0.85 g/kg (Ru), 0.72 g/kg (Os) and 0.95 g/kg (Pt) whilst microwave dissolution using HCl and aqua regia yielded an average of 0.77 g/kg (Ru), 0.08 g/kg (Os) and 0.35 g/kg (Pt). Sodium phosphate flux, however, introduced Na+ ions as easily ionised elements, which affected the emission intensities to yield slightly inflated PGE (Ru, Os and Pt) yields. The use of ammonium phosphate and sodium phosphate at 800°C (after the selective removal of Na+ ions) proved to better the fluxes and produced higher and consistent PGE yields. The use of ammonium phosphate flux was also shown to facilitate the isolation of a green chromium precipitate with a 98.9% purity, which may assist in a hydrometallurgical beneficiation process of the UG2 chromitite concentrate ore and may also have important implications for the ferro-chrome industry.

Azobenzene dye-coupled quadruply hydrogen-bonding modules as colorimetric indicators for supramolecular interactions.

PubMed

Zhang, Yagang; Zimmerman, Steven C

2012-01-01

The facile coupling of azobenzene dyes to the quadruply hydrogen-bonding modules 2,7-diamido-1,8-naphthyridine (DAN) and 7-deazaguanine urea (DeUG) is described. The coupling of azobenzene dye 2 to mono-amido DAN units 4, 7, and 9 was effected by classic 4-(dimethylamino)pyridine (DMAP)-catalyzed peptide synthesis with N-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-N'-ethyl carbodiimide hydrochloride (EDC) as activating agent, affording the respective amide products 5, 8, and 10 in 60-71% yield. The amide linkage was formed through either the aliphatic or aromatic ester group of 2, allowing both the flexibility and absorption maximum to be tuned. Azobenzene dye 1 was coupled to the DeUG unit 11 by Steglich esterification to afford the product amide 12 in 35% yield. Alternatively, azobenzene dye 16 underwent a room-temperature copper-catalyzed azide-alkyne Huisgen cycloaddition with DeUG alkyne 17 to give triazole 18 in 71% yield. Azobenzene coupled DAN modules 5, 8, and 10 are bright orange-red in color, and azobenzene coupled DeUG modules 12 and 18 are orange-yellow in color. Azobenzene coupled DAN and DeUG modules were successfully used as colorimetric indicators for specific DAN-DeUG and DAN-UPy (2-ureido-4(1H)-pyrimidone) quadruply hydrogen-bonding interactions.

Azobenzene dye-coupled quadruply hydrogen-bonding modules as colorimetric indicators for supramolecular interactions

PubMed Central

Zhang, Yagang

2012-01-01

Summary The facile coupling of azobenzene dyes to the quadruply hydrogen-bonding modules 2,7-diamido-1,8-naphthyridine (DAN) and 7-deazaguanine urea (DeUG) is described. The coupling of azobenzene dye 2 to mono-amido DAN units 4, 7, and 9 was effected by classic 4-(dimethylamino)pyridine (DMAP)-catalyzed peptide synthesis with N-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-N’-ethyl carbodiimide hydrochloride (EDC) as activating agent, affording the respective amide products 5, 8, and 10 in 60–71% yield. The amide linkage was formed through either the aliphatic or aromatic ester group of 2, allowing both the flexibility and absorption maximum to be tuned. Azobenzene dye 1 was coupled to the DeUG unit 11 by Steglich esterification to afford the product amide 12 in 35% yield. Alternatively, azobenzene dye 16 underwent a room-temperature copper-catalyzed azide–alkyne Huisgen cycloaddition with DeUG alkyne 17 to give triazole 18 in 71% yield. Azobenzene coupled DAN modules 5, 8, and 10 are bright orange–red in color, and azobenzene coupled DeUG modules 12 and 18 are orange–yellow in color. Azobenzene coupled DAN and DeUG modules were successfully used as colorimetric indicators for specific DAN–DeUG and DAN–UPy (2-ureido-4(1H)-pyrimidone) quadruply hydrogen-bonding interactions. PMID:22509220

Identification and characterization of Sr13, a tetraploid wheat gene that confers resistance to the Ug99 stem rust race group

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici (Pgt) Ug99 race group is virulent to most stem rust resistance genes currently deployed in wheat and poses a serious threat to global wheat production. The durum wheat (Triticum turgidum ssp. durum) gene Sr13 confers resistance to Ug99 in addition to virulent rac...

A Fusion Architecture for Tracking a Group of People Using a Distributed Sensor Network

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-07-01

Determining the composition of the group is done using several classifiers. The fusion is done at the UGS level to fuse information from all the modalities to...to classification and counting of the targets. Section III also presents the algorithms for fusion of distributed sensor data at the UGS level and...ultrasonic sensors. Determining the composition of the group is done using several classifiers. The fusion is done at the UGS level to fuse

First Report of the Ug99 race group of wheat stem rust, Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici, in Egypt

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Since the first detection of Ug99 (or race TTKSK) of Puccinia graminis f.sp. tritici (Pgt) in Uganda in 1998 (Pretorius et al. 2000), it has been a priority to track further spread to other wheat growing areas. To date, variants in the Ug99 race group have been detected in 12 countries, i.e., Uganda...

Gold concentrations in abiotic materials, plants, and animals: a synoptic review

USGS Publications Warehouse

Eisler, R.

2004-01-01

Gold (Au) is ubiquitous in the environment and mined commercially at numerous locations worldwide. It is also an allergen that induces dermatitis in sensitive individuals. Gold concentrations were comparatively elevated in samples collected near gold mining and processing facilities, although no data were found for birds and non-human mammals. Maximum gold concentrations reported in abiotic materials were 0.001 ug/L in rainwater; 0.0015 ug/L in seawater near hydrothermal vents vs. <0.00004-0.0007 ug/L elsewhere; 5.0 ug/kg dry weight (DW) in the Earth's crust; 19.0 ug/L in a freshwater stream near a gold mining site; 440 ug/kg DW in atmospheric dust near a high traffic road; 843 ug/kg DW in alluvial soil near a Nevada gold mine vs. <29 ug/kg DW premining; 2.53 mg/kg DW in snow near a Russian smelter vs. <0.35 mg/kg DW at a reference site; 4.5 mg/kg DW in sewage sludge; 28.7 mg/kg DW in polymetallic sulfides from the ocean floor; and 256.0 mg/kg DW in freshwater sediments near a gold mine tailings pile vs. <5 ug/kg DW prior to mining. In plants, elevated concentrations of 19 ug Au/kg DW were reported in terrestrial vegetation near gold mining operations vs. <4 ug/kg DW at a reference site; 37 ug/kg DW in aquatic bryophytes downstream from a gold mine; 150 ug Au/kg DW in leaves of beans grown in soil containing 170 ug/kg DW; up to 1.06 mg/kg DW in algal mats of rivers receiving gold mine wastes; and 0.1-100 mg/kg DW in selected gold accumulator plants. Fish and aquatic invertebrates contained 0.1-38.0 ug Au/kg DW. In humans, gold concentrations up to 1.1 ug/L were documented in urine of dental technicians vs. 0.002-0.85 ug/L in reference populations; 2.1 ug/L in breast milk, attributed to gold dental fillings and jewelry of mothers; 1.4 mg/kg DW in hair of goldsmiths vs. a normal range of 6-880 ug/kg DW; 2.39 mg/L in whole blood of rheumatoid arthritis patients receiving gold thiol drugs to reduce inflammation (chrysotherapy) vs. a normal range of 0.2-2.0 ug/L; and 60.0 to 233.0 mg/kg fresh weight (FW) in kidneys of rheumatoid arthritis patients undergoing active chrysotherapy vs. <42.0 mg/kg FW kidney 140 months posttreatment.

Specific Changes in Young Soccer Player's Fitness After Traditional Bilateral vs. Unilateral Combined Strength and Plyometric Training

PubMed Central

Ramirez-Campillo, Rodrigo; Sanchez-Sanchez, Javier; Gonzalo-Skok, Oliver; Rodríguez-Fernandez, Alejandro; Carretero, Manuel; Nakamura, Fabio Y.

2018-01-01

The aim of this study was to compare changes in young soccer player's fitness after traditional bilateral vs. unilateral combined plyometric and strength training. Male athletes were randomly divided in two groups; both received the same training, including strength training for knee extensors and flexors, in addition to horizontal plyometric training drills. The only difference between groups was the mode of drills technique: unilateral (UG; n = 9; age, 17.3 ± 1.1 years) vs. bilateral (TG; n = 9; age, 17.6 ± 0.5 years). One repetition maximum bilateral strength of knee muscle extensors (1RM_KE) and flexors (1RM_KF), change of direction ability (COD), horizontal and vertical jump ability with one (unilateral) and two (bilateral) legs, and limb symmetry index were measured before and after an 8-week in-season intervention period. Some regular soccer drills were replaced by combination of plyometric and strength training drills. Magnitude-based inference statistics were used for between-group and within-group comparisons. Beneficial effects (p < 0.05) in 1RM_KE, COD, and several test of jumping performance were found in both groups in comparison to pre-test values. The limb symmetry index was not affected in either group. The beneficial changes in 1RM_KE (8.1%; p = 0.074) and 1RM_KF (6.7%; p = 0.004), COD (3.1%; p = 0.149), and bilateral jump performance (from 2.7% [p = 0.535] to 10.5% [p = 0.002]) were possible to most likely beneficial in the TG than in the UG. However, unilateral jump performance measures achieved likely to most likely beneficial changes in the UG compared to the TG (from 4.5% [p = 0.090] to 8.6% [p = 0.018]). The improvements in jumping ability were specific to the type of jump performed, with greater improvements in unilateral jump performance in the UG and bilateral jump performance in the TG. Therefore, bilateral strength and plyometric training should be complemented with unilateral drills, in order to maximize adaptations. PMID:29623049

Specific Changes in Young Soccer Player's Fitness After Traditional Bilateral vs. Unilateral Combined Strength and Plyometric Training.

PubMed

Ramirez-Campillo, Rodrigo; Sanchez-Sanchez, Javier; Gonzalo-Skok, Oliver; Rodríguez-Fernandez, Alejandro; Carretero, Manuel; Nakamura, Fabio Y

2018-01-01

The aim of this study was to compare changes in young soccer player's fitness after traditional bilateral vs. unilateral combined plyometric and strength training. Male athletes were randomly divided in two groups; both received the same training, including strength training for knee extensors and flexors, in addition to horizontal plyometric training drills. The only difference between groups was the mode of drills technique: unilateral (UG; n = 9; age, 17.3 ± 1.1 years) vs. bilateral (TG; n = 9; age, 17.6 ± 0.5 years). One repetition maximum bilateral strength of knee muscle extensors (1RM_KE) and flexors (1RM_KF), change of direction ability (COD), horizontal and vertical jump ability with one (unilateral) and two (bilateral) legs, and limb symmetry index were measured before and after an 8-week in-season intervention period. Some regular soccer drills were replaced by combination of plyometric and strength training drills. Magnitude-based inference statistics were used for between-group and within-group comparisons. Beneficial effects ( p < 0.05) in 1RM_KE, COD, and several test of jumping performance were found in both groups in comparison to pre-test values. The limb symmetry index was not affected in either group. The beneficial changes in 1RM_KE (8.1%; p = 0.074) and 1RM_KF (6.7%; p = 0.004), COD (3.1%; p = 0.149), and bilateral jump performance (from 2.7% [ p = 0.535] to 10.5% [ p = 0.002]) were possible to most likely beneficial in the TG than in the UG. However, unilateral jump performance measures achieved likely to most likely beneficial changes in the UG compared to the TG (from 4.5% [ p = 0.090] to 8.6% [ p = 0.018]). The improvements in jumping ability were specific to the type of jump performed, with greater improvements in unilateral jump performance in the UG and bilateral jump performance in the TG. Therefore, bilateral strength and plyometric training should be complemented with unilateral drills, in order to maximize adaptations.

Effect of Cu(II) coordination compounds on the activity of antioxidant enzymes catalase and superoxide dismutase in patients with colorectal cancer.

PubMed

Kubiak, Katarzyna; Malinowska, Katarzyna; Langer, Ewa; Dziki, Łukasz; Dziki, Adam; Majsterek, Ireneusz

2011-03-01

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a serious medical and economical problem of our times. It is the most common gastrointestinal cancer in the world. In Poland, the treatment and detection of CRC are poorly developed and the pathogenesis is still unclear. One hypothesis suggests a role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the pathogenesis of CRC. Experimental studies in recent years confirm the participation of ROS in the initiation and promotion of CRC. The aim of the study was to examine the effect of the following coordination compounds coordination compounds: dinitrate (V) tetra(3,4,5-trimethyl-N1-pyrazole-κN2) copper(II), dichloro di(3,4,5-trimethyl-N1-pyrazole-κN2) copper(II), dinitrate (V) di(1,4,5-trimethyl-N1-pyrazole-κN2) copper(II), dichloro di(1,3,4,5-tetramethyl-N1-pyrazole-κN2) copper(II) on the activity of antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD, ZnCu-SOD) and catalase (CAT) in a group of patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) and in the control group consisting of patients with minor gastrointestinal complaints. The study was conducted in 20 patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer at the age of 66.5±10.2 years (10 men and 10 women) versus the control group of 20 people (10 men and 10 women) aged 57.89±17.10 years without cancer lesions in the biological material - hemolysate prepared in a proportion of 1ml of water per 1 ml of blood. CAT activity was measured by the Beers method (1952), while SOD activity was measured by the Misra and Fridovich method (1972). We found that patients with CRC showed a statistically significant decrease of SOD and CAT activity (CAT - 12,75±1.97 U/g Hb, SOD - 1111.52±155.52 U/g Hb) in comparison with the control group (CAT - 19.65±2,17 U/g Hb, SOD - 2046.26±507.22 U/g Hb). Simultaneously, we observed that the investigated coordination compounds of Cu(II) significantly increased the antioxidant activity of CAT and SOD in patients with CRC (mean: CAT 25.23±4.86 U/g Hb, SOD - 3075.96±940.20 U/g Hb). Patients with colorectal cancer are characterized by reduced activity of antioxidant enzymes catalase and superoxide dismutase which suggests impaired antioxidant barrier. Therefore, coordination compounds of Cu (II), which enhance the activity of CAT and SOD, may prove useful in the prevention and treatment of colorectal cancer.

The effects of unilateral and bilateral eccentric overload training on hypertrophy, muscle power and COD performance, and its determinants, in team sport players.

PubMed

Núñez, Francisco Javier; Santalla, Alfredo; Carrasquila, Irene; Asian, Jose Antonio; Reina, Jose Ignacio; Suarez-Arrones, Luis Jesús

2018-01-01

The study aimed to compare the chronic eccentric-overload training effects of unilateral (lateral lunge) vs bilateral (half-squat) using an inertial device, on hypertrophy and physical performance. Twenty-seven young team sports male players performed a 4 sets of 7 repetitions of inertial eccentric overload training, biweekly for 6 weeks, distributed in unilateral lunge group (UG: age: 22.8 ± 2.9 years; body mass: 75.3 ± 8.8 kg; height: 177.3 ± 3.7 cm) and bilateral squat group (BG: age: 22.6 ± 2.7 years; body mass: 79.5 ± 12.8 kg; height: 164.2 ± 7 cm). Lower limb muscle volume, counter movement jump (CMJ), power with both (POWER), dominant (POWERd) and no-dominant leg (POWERnd), change of direction turn of 90° with dominant (COD90d) and no-dominant leg (COD90nd) and 180° (COD180d and COD180nd), and 10m sprint time (T-10m) were measured pre and post-intervention. The UG obtained an increase of adductor major (+11.1%) and vastus medialis (+12.6%) higher than BG. The BG obtained an increase of vastus lateralis (+9.9%) and lateral gastrocnemius (+9.1%) higher than UG. Both groups improved CMJ, POWER, POWERd, POWERnd, COD90 and DEC-COD90, without changes in T-10m. The UG decrease DEC-COD90nd (-21.1%) and BG increase POWER (+38.6%) substantially more than the other group. Six-weeks of unilateral / bilateral EO training induce substantial improvements in lower limbs muscle volume and functional performance, although unilateral training seems to be more effective in improving COD90 performance.

The effects of unilateral and bilateral eccentric overload training on hypertrophy, muscle power and COD performance, and its determinants, in team sport players

PubMed Central

Carrasquila, Irene; Asian, Jose Antonio; Reina, Jose Ignacio

2018-01-01

The study aimed to compare the chronic eccentric-overload training effects of unilateral (lateral lunge) vs bilateral (half-squat) using an inertial device, on hypertrophy and physical performance. Twenty-seven young team sports male players performed a 4 sets of 7 repetitions of inertial eccentric overload training, biweekly for 6 weeks, distributed in unilateral lunge group (UG: age: 22.8 ± 2.9 years; body mass: 75.3 ± 8.8 kg; height: 177.3 ± 3.7 cm) and bilateral squat group (BG: age: 22.6 ± 2.7 years; body mass: 79.5 ± 12.8 kg; height: 164.2 ± 7 cm). Lower limb muscle volume, counter movement jump (CMJ), power with both (POWER), dominant (POWERd) and no-dominant leg (POWERnd), change of direction turn of 90° with dominant (COD90d) and no-dominant leg (COD90nd) and 180° (COD180d and COD180nd), and 10m sprint time (T-10m) were measured pre and post-intervention. The UG obtained an increase of adductor major (+11.1%) and vastus medialis (+12.6%) higher than BG. The BG obtained an increase of vastus lateralis (+9.9%) and lateral gastrocnemius (+9.1%) higher than UG. Both groups improved CMJ, POWER, POWERd, POWERnd, COD90 and DEC-COD90, without changes in T-10m. The UG decrease DEC-COD90nd (-21.1%) and BG increase POWER (+38.6%) substantially more than the other group. Six-weeks of unilateral / bilateral EO training induce substantial improvements in lower limbs muscle volume and functional performance, although unilateral training seems to be more effective in improving COD90 performance. PMID:29590139

The vertical distribution of selected trace metals and organic compounds in bottom materials of the proposed lower Columbia River export channel, Oregon, 1984

USGS Publications Warehouse

Fuhrer, Gregory J.; Horowitz, Arthur J.

1989-01-01

A proposal to deepen the lower Columbia River navigation channel in Oregon prompted a study of the vertical distribution of selected trace metals and organic compounds in bottom sediments. These data are needed to evaluate the effects of dredging and disposal operations. Elutriation testing of bottom material indicated chemical concentrations as large as 900 ug/L for barium, 6,500 ug/L for manganese, and 14 ug/L for nickel. The amount of oxygen present during elutriation testing of reduced bottom material was shown to have a negligble effect on manganese elutriate-test concentrations, but it did affect barium and iron concentrations. Sediment-associated organochlorine compounds detected in bottom-sediment core samples were as large as 0.1 ug/kg (micrograms/kilogram) for aldrin, 2.0 ug/kg for chlordane, 27 ug/kg for DDD, 5.0 ug/kg for DDE, 0.2 ug/kg for DDT, 0.2 ug/kg for dieldrin, 37 ug/kg for PCB 's 1.0 ug/kg for PCN 's and 1.0 ug/kg for heptachlor epoxide. Concentrations of cadmium, lead, and zinc in selected cores were found to exceed those of local basalts. Concentrations of cadmium, lead, and zinc were as large as 3.6 ug/g, 26 ug/g, and 210 ug/g respectively. Bottom-sediment concentrations of cadmium , chromium, copper, iron, and zinc associated with the less-than-100-micrometer size fraction are larger than those associated with the greater-than-100-micrometer fraction. (USGS)

Improved Understanding of Sources of Variability in Groundwater Sampling for Long-Term Monitoring Programs

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-02-01

20000 18200 ug/L 91 60 - 140 Styrene - DL 70 10000 10900 ug/L 109 60 - 140 1,1,2,2-Tetrachloroethane - DL 220 10000 12600 ug/L 126 60 - 140...L 110 60 - 140 Trichloroethene - DL2 180 10000 12600 F ug/L 126 56 - 118 Vinyl acetate - DL2 210 10000 4630 F ug/L 46 60 - 140 Vinyl chloride - DL2

Installation Restoration Program. Remedial Investigation Report. Site 1. Fire Training Area. Volk Field Air National Guard Base, Camp Douglas, WI. Volume 2

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-07-01

trobenzen. 660’ ug/KG Phenacet in 6600 ug/KG 2- Picoline 660’ ug/KG Pronamide 10000 ug/KG 1,2,4, 5-Tetrachlorobenzene 660’ ug/KO 0 Denotes instrument...Phenacetin ND 2- Picoline ND Pronamide ND 1,26,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene -*ND *EPA has not yet determined detection limits for these compounds E-158 I Pr...ND N-Nitrosopiperidine - ND Pentachlorobenzene ND Pentachloromitrobenzene -*ND Phenacetin ND 2- Picoline ND Pronamide - *ND 1,2,4,5

Novel Preclinical Testing Strategies for Treatment of Metastatic Pheochromocytoma

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-09-01

proliferation using this protocol as reported or with any modifications tested Medium Y27632 (uM) Hydrocortisone (ug/mL) Insulin (ug/mL) rhEGF...0 + + 0 + + 0 + 0 Medium Y27632 (uM) Hydrocortisone (ug/mL) Insulin (ug/mL) rhEGF (ng/mL) Adenine (ug/mL) Result...reported (1) except for cholera toxin, which was toxic to this tumor under these conditions 17 Medium Y27632 (uM) Hydrocortisone (ug/mL

A randomized controlled trial to assess the effect of a ketamine infusion on tourniquet hypertension during general anaesthesia in patients undergoing upper and lower limb surgery.

PubMed

Ongaya, Joyce; Mung'ayi, Vitalis; Sharif, Thikra; Kabugi, Jimmie

2017-03-01

Tourniquet hypertension arising from tourniquet inflation remains a primary concern to the anaesthetist. One drug commonly used to manage tourniquet hypertension is ketamine. No studies have examined the effect of ketamine on tourniquet hypertension for a period of more than one hour or an infusion of the same. To compare the effect of an intravenous infusion of ketamine versus placebo on tourniquet induced hypertension in patients undergoing upper and lower limb surgery under general anaesthesia. Forty six adult patients scheduled for upper and lower limb surgery under general anaesthesia were randomized into two equal groups. The ketamine group received an intravenous bolus of 0.1mg/kg of ketamine followed by an infusion of 2ug/kg/min. The saline group received an intravenous bolus of physiological saline followed by an infusion of saline. All the patients were reviewed post-operatively. Data of the baseline characteristics, haemodynamic changes, post-tourniquet pain and side effects were collected. If post-tourniquet pain was present post-operatively, a visual analogue scale (VAS) was used to assess its severity. 46 patients successfully completed the trial. There were no significant differences between the groups for baseline patient demographics. The incidence of tourniquet hypertension was higher in the saline group (26.1%) compared with ketamine group (4.6%) with a 95% confidence interval. The difference was shown to be statistically significant ('P'<0.05). There was an increase in systolic blood pressure after 60 minutes of tourniquet inflation in the saline group but the difference was not statistically significant('P'>0.866). There were no significant differences between the groups as regards diastolic blood pressure and heart rate. VAS scores did not differ between the two groups. Statistically, there was no difference found between the two groups. Side effects were minimal in the ketamine group whilst in the saline group, nausea and vomiting were predominant but were also not statistically significant. Based on the results of this study, there was a difference in the proportion of tourniquet hypertension between the ketamine and saline groups for patients undergoing upper and lower limb orthopaedic surgery under general anaesthesia.

Selected Natural Attenuation Monitoring Data, Operable Unit 1, Naval Undersea Warfare Center, Division Keyport, Washington, 2007 and 2008

USGS Publications Warehouse

Dinicola, R.S.; Huffman, R.L.

2009-01-01

Previous investigations indicate that natural attenuation and biodegradation of chlorinated volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are substantial in groundwater beneath the 9-acre former landfill at Operable Unit 1 (OU 1), Naval Undersea Warfare Center, Division Keyport, Washington. Phytoremediation combined with on-going natural attenuation processes was the preferred remedy selected by the Navy, as specified in the Record of Decision for the site. The Navy planted two hybrid poplar plantations on the landfill in spring 1999 to remove and to control the migration of chlorinated VOCs in shallow groundwater. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has continued to monitor groundwater geochemistry to ensure that conditions remain favorable for contaminant biodegradation as specified in the Record of Decision. In this report are groundwater geochemical and selected VOC data collected at OU 1 by the USGS during June 18-21, 2007, and June 16-18, 2008, in support of long-term monitoring for natural attenuation. For 2007 and 2008, strongly reducing conditions (sulfate reduction and methanogenesis) most favorable for reductive dechlorination of VOCs were inferred for 9 of 16 upper-aquifer wells and piezometers in the northern and southern phytoremediation plantations. Predominant redox conditions in groundwater from the intermediate aquifer just downgradient from the landfill remained mildly reducing and somewhat favorable for reductive dechlorination of VOCs. Dissolved hydrogen (H2) concentrations measured in the upper aquifer during 2007 and 2008 generally have been lower than H2 concentrations measured before 2002. However, widespread and relatively high methane and sulfide concentrations indicate that the lower H2 concentrations measured do not support a trend from strongly to mildly reducing redox conditions because no widespread changes in groundwater redox conditions were identified that should result in less favorable conditions for the reductive dechlorination of the chlorinated VOCs. For the upper aquifer beneath the northern phytoremediation plantation, chlorinated VOC concentrations in 2007 and 2008 at most piezometers were similar to or slightly less than chlorinated VOC concentrations measured in previous years. The only chlorinated VOC positively detected at piezometers P1-1 and P1-5 was cis-1,2-dichloroethene (cis-DCE); most chlorinated VOC concentrations at piezometer P1-3 were at the lowest levels since monitoring began in 1999. Most VOC concentrations at piezometer P1-4 were similar to VOC concentrations measured in previous years except that vinyl chloride (VC) concentrations inexplicably increased from 280 micrograms per liter (ug/L) in June 2007 to 750 ug/L in June 2008. In 2008, measurement of the sum of concentrations of ethane and ethene, reductive dechlorination byproducts, was at the highest level at most northern plantation wells and piezometers, which is evidence of reductive dechlorination of chlorinated VOCs. For the upper aquifer beneath the southern phytoremediation plantation, chlorinated VOC concentrations in 2007 and 2008 at the piezometers were most often extremely high and they continued to vary considerable over space and between years. At piezometer P1-6, the total chlorinated VOC concentration increased from 380 ug/L in 2007 to more than 20,000 ug/L in 2008. At piezometer P1-7 in 2008, the concentrations of trichloroethene, cis-DCE, and VC were the highest to date, but total chlorinated VOC concentrations at piezometers P1-8, P1-9, and P1-10 in 2008 were relatively low compared to historical levels. The magnitude and persistence of chlorinated VOC concentrations indicate that non-aqueous phase liquid chloroethenes likely are beneath the southern plantation, and the temporal variability in concentrations likely is a result of variations in precipitation and groundwater levels interacting with the non-aqueous phase liquid. The reductive dechlorination byproducts ethane and ethene were detected at

Evaluation of Water-Chemistry and Water-Level Data at the Henderson Road Superfund Site, Upper Merion Township, Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, 1991-2008

USGS Publications Warehouse

Sloto, Ronald A.

2009-01-01

Several shutdown-rebound tests have been conducted at the Henderson Road Superfund Site, which has been on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's National Priorities List since 1984. For a given test, the extraction wells are turned off, and water samples are collected from selected monitor wells at regular intervals before and during cessation of pumping to monitor for changes in chemical concentrations. A long-term shutdown-rebound test began on July 17, 2006. In support of this test, the U.S. Geological Survey conducted this study to determine the effects of shutting down on-site extraction wells on concentrations of selected contaminants and water levels. Concentrations were compared to ARARs (applicable relevant and appropriate requirements), which were set as remediation goals in the Henderson Road Site Record of Decision. Water from 10 wells in and near the source area and to the north, northeast, and northwest of the source area sampled in 2008 exceeded the 5.52 ug/L (micrograms per liter) ARAR for benzene. The greatest changes in benzene concentration between pre-shutdown samples collected in July 2006 and samples collected in February and March 2008 (19 months after the shutdown) were for wells in and north of the source area; increases in benzene concentration ranged from 1.5 to 164 ug/L. Water from five wells in the source area and to the north and northwest of the source area sampled in 2008 exceeded the 60 ug/L ARAR for chlorobenzene. The greatest changes in chlorobenzene concentration between pre-shutdown samples collected in July 2006 and samples collected in February and March 2008 were for wells north of the source area; increases in chlorobenzene concentration ranged from 6.9 to 99 ug/L. The highest concentrations of chlorobenzene were near or outside the northern site boundary, indicating chlorobenzene may have moved north away from the source area; however, no monitor well clusters are on the northern side of the Pennsylvania Turnpike, which is about 190 feet north of the source area. A much larger area was affected by chlorobenzene than benzene. Chlorobenzene concentrations decreased in the source area and increased at and beyond the site boundary. Water from four wells in and northeast of the source area sampled in 2008 exceeded the 5.06 ug/L ARAR for 1,1-dichloroethane (1,1-DCA). Increases in 1,1-DCA concentration between pre-shutdown samples collected in July 2006 and samples collected in February 2008 ranged from 0.4 to 20 ug/L. Water from two wells in the source area sampled in 2008 exceeded the 175 ug/L ARAR for total xylene. The 1,1-DCA and xylene plumes appear to extend in an east-northeast direction from the source area. Large drawdowns in the Upper Merion Reservoir during droughts in 1998 and 2001 affected water levels in the Chester Valley and at the Henderson Road Site, except for well HR-17-170. After the drought of 2001, water levels in the Chester Valley showed a protracted recovery lasting from September 2001 until June 2005 (46 months). Water-level data were evaluated temporally for 1997-2008 and spatially for (1) June 16, 2003, when the extraction wells were pumping at the full rate prior to the start of the June 2003 shutdown test; (2) July 10, 2006, during the period of reduced pumping after the June 2003 shutdown test; and (3) February 25-29, 2008, when the extraction wells were not pumping. Except for well HR-5-195, wells were categorized as shallow, intermediate-depth, and deep wells. The potentiometric surface for shallow wells did not appear to be affected by pumping of the extraction wells. The general direction of ground-water flow was to the north. The potentiometric surface for intermediate-depth wells showed a cone of depression when the extraction wells were pumping at the full rate but did not show a cone of depression when the extraction wells were pumping at the reduced rate. The ground-water-flow direction was toward the north and northeast, similar to

Discovery of a Novel Stem Rust Resistance Allele in Durum Wheat that Exhibits Differential Reactions to Ug99 Isolates

PubMed Central

Nirmala, Jayaveeramuthu; Saini, Jyoti; Newcomb, Maria; Olivera, Pablo; Gale, Sam; Klindworth, Daryl; Elias, Elias; Talbert, Luther; Chao, Shiaoman; Faris, Justin; Xu, Steven; Jin, Yue; Rouse, Matthew N.

2017-01-01

Wheat stem rust, caused by Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici Eriks. & E. Henn, can incur yield losses in susceptible cultivars of durum wheat, Triticum turgidum ssp. durum (Desf.) Husnot. Although several durum cultivars possess the stem rust resistance gene Sr13, additional genes in durum wheat effective against emerging virulent races have not been described. Durum line 8155-B1 confers resistance against the P. graminis f. sp. tritici race TTKST, the variant race of the Ug99 race group with additional virulence to wheat stem rust resistance gene Sr24. However, 8155-B1 does not confer resistance to the first-described race in the Ug99 race group: TTKSK. We mapped a single gene conferring resistance in 8155-B1 against race TTKST, Sr8155B1, to chromosome arm 6AS by utilizing Rusty/8155-B1 and Rusty*2/8155-B1 populations and the 90K Infinium iSelect Custom bead chip supplemented by KASP assays. One marker, KASP_6AS_IWB10558, cosegregated with Sr8155B1 in both populations and correctly predicted Sr8155B1 presence or absence in 11 durum cultivars tested. We confirmed the presence of Sr8155B1 in cultivar Mountrail by mapping in the population Choteau/Mountrail. The marker developed in this study could be used to predict the presence of resistance to race TTKST in uncharacterized durum breeding lines, and also to combine Sr8155B1 with resistance genes effective to Ug99 such as Sr13. The map location of Sr8155B1 cannot rule out the possibility that this gene is an allele at the Sr8 locus. However, race specificity indicates that Sr8155B1 is different from the known alleles Sr8a and Sr8b. PMID:28855282

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

PubMed

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

2012-08-01

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

Effects of a multicomponent exercise program in institutionalized elders with Alzheimer's disease.

PubMed

Sampaio, Arnaldina; Marques, Elisa A; Mota, Jorge; Carvalho, Joana

2016-10-18

This study examined the effect of a Multicomponent Training (MT) intervention on cognitive function, functional fitness and anthropometric variables in institutionalized patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Thirty-seven institutionalized elders (84.05 ± 5.58 years) clinically diagnosed with AD (mild and moderate stages) were divided into two groups: Experimental Group (EG, n = 19) and Control Group (CG, n = 18). The EG participated in a six-month supervised MT program (aerobic, muscular resistance, flexibility and postural exercises) of 45-55 minutes/session, twice/week. Cognitive function (MMSE), physical fitness (Senior Fitness Test) and anthropometric variables (Body Mass Index and Waist Circumference), were assessed before (M1), after three months (M2) and after six months (M3) of the experimental protocol. A two-way ANOVA, with repeated measures, revealed significant group and time interactions on cognitive function, chair stand, arm curl, 2-min step, 8-foot up-and-go (UG), chair sit-and-reach (CSR) and back scratch tests as well as waist circumference. Accordingly, for those variables a different response in each group was evident over the time, supported by a significantly better EG performance in chair stand, arm curl, 2-min step, UG, CSR and back scratch tests from M1 to M3, and a significant increase in MMSE from M1 to M2. The CG's performance decreased over time (M1 to M3) in chair stand, arm curl, 2-min step, UG, CSR, back scratch and MMSE. Results suggest that MT programs may be an important non-pharmacological strategy to improve physical and cognitive functions in institutionalized AD patients. © The Author(s) 2016.

46 CFR 54.05-1 - Scope (replaces UG-84).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Scope (replaces UG-84). 54.05-1 Section 54.05-1 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS Toughness Tests § 54.05-1 Scope (replaces UG-84). The toughness tests of materials used in pressure vessels shall be as required by this subpart in lieu of...

46 CFR 54.05-1 - Scope (replaces UG-84).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Scope (replaces UG-84). 54.05-1 Section 54.05-1 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS Toughness Tests § 54.05-1 Scope (replaces UG-84). The toughness tests of materials used in pressure vessels shall be as required by this subpart in lieu of...

46 CFR 54.05-1 - Scope (replaces UG-84).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Scope (replaces UG-84). 54.05-1 Section 54.05-1 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS Toughness Tests § 54.05-1 Scope (replaces UG-84). The toughness tests of materials used in pressure vessels shall be as required by this subpart in lieu of...

46 CFR 54.05-1 - Scope (replaces UG-84).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Scope (replaces UG-84). 54.05-1 Section 54.05-1 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS Toughness Tests § 54.05-1 Scope (replaces UG-84). The toughness tests of materials used in pressure vessels shall be as required by this subpart in lieu of...

46 CFR 54.05-1 - Scope (replaces UG-84).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Scope (replaces UG-84). 54.05-1 Section 54.05-1 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS Toughness Tests § 54.05-1 Scope (replaces UG-84). The toughness tests of materials used in pressure vessels shall be as required by this subpart in lieu of...

Kenyan isolates of Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici from 2008 to 2014: Virulence to SrTmp in the Ug99 race group and implications for breeding programs

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Frequent emergence of new variants in the Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici (Pgt) Ug99 race group in Kenya has made pathogen survey a priority. We analyzed 140 isolates from 78 Pgt samples collected in Kenya between 2008 and 2014 and identified six races, including three not detected prior to 2013. G...

46 CFR 54.15-13 - Rupture disks (modifies UG-127).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

...: (1) Comply with the general provisions of § 54.15-5 except as noted otherwise in this section; (2... 46 Shipping 2 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Rupture disks (modifies UG-127). 54.15-13 Section 54.15... VESSELS Pressure-Relief Devices § 54.15-13 Rupture disks (modifies UG-127). (a) Paragraph UG-127 of...

46 CFR 54.15-13 - Rupture disks (modifies UG-127).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

...: (1) Comply with the general provisions of § 54.15-5 except as noted otherwise in this section; (2... 46 Shipping 2 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Rupture disks (modifies UG-127). 54.15-13 Section 54.15... VESSELS Pressure-Relief Devices § 54.15-13 Rupture disks (modifies UG-127). (a) Paragraph UG-127 of...

46 CFR 54.15-13 - Rupture disks (modifies UG-127).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

...: (1) Comply with the general provisions of § 54.15-5 except as noted otherwise in this section; (2... 46 Shipping 2 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Rupture disks (modifies UG-127). 54.15-13 Section 54.15... VESSELS Pressure-Relief Devices § 54.15-13 Rupture disks (modifies UG-127). (a) Paragraph UG-127 of...

46 CFR 54.15-13 - Rupture disks (modifies UG-127).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

...: (1) Comply with the general provisions of § 54.15-5 except as noted otherwise in this section; (2... 46 Shipping 2 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Rupture disks (modifies UG-127). 54.15-13 Section 54.15... VESSELS Pressure-Relief Devices § 54.15-13 Rupture disks (modifies UG-127). (a) Paragraph UG-127 of...

46 CFR 54.15-13 - Rupture disks (modifies UG-127).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

...: (1) Comply with the general provisions of § 54.15-5 except as noted otherwise in this section; (2... 46 Shipping 2 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Rupture disks (modifies UG-127). 54.15-13 Section 54.15... VESSELS Pressure-Relief Devices § 54.15-13 Rupture disks (modifies UG-127). (a) Paragraph UG-127 of...

Beta-catenin (CTNNB1) induces Bmp expression in urogenital sinus epithelium and participates in prostatic bud initiation and patterning

PubMed Central

Mehta, Vatsal; Schmitz, Christopher T.; Keil, Kimberly P.; Joshi, Pinak S.; Abler, Lisa L.; Lin, Tien-Min; Taketo, Makoto M.; Sun, Xin; Vezina, Chad M.

2013-01-01

Fetal prostate development is initiated by androgens and patterned by androgen dependent and independent signals. How these signals integrate to control epithelial cell differentiation and prostatic bud patterning is not fully understood. To test the role of beta-catenin (Ctnnb1) in this process, we used a genetic approach to conditionally delete or stabilize Ctnnb1 in urogenital sinus (UGS) epithelium from which the prostate derives. Two opposing mechanisms of action were revealed. By deleting Ctnnb1, we found it is required for separation of UGS from cloaca, emergence or maintenance of differentiated UGS basal epithelium and formation of prostatic buds. By genetically inducing a patchy subset of UGS epithelial cells to express excess CTNNB1, we found its excess abundance increases Bmp expression and leads to a global impairment of prostatic bud formation. Addition of NOGGIN partially restores prostatic budding in UGS explants with excess Ctnnb1. These results indicate a requirement for Ctnnb1 in UGS basal epithelial cell differentiation, prostatic bud initiation and bud spacing and suggest some of these actions are mediated in part through activation of BMP signaling. PMID:23396188

Methods of Analysis by the U.S. Geological Survey Organic Geochemistry Research Group-Determination of Dissolved Isoxaflutole and Its Sequential Degradation Products, Diketonitrile and Benzoic Acid, in Water Using Solid-Phase Extraction and Liquid Chromatography/Tandem Mass Spectrometry

USGS Publications Warehouse

Meyer, Michael T.; Lee, Edward A.; Scribner, Elisabeth A.

2007-01-01

An analytical method for the determination of isoxaflutole and its sequential degradation products, diketonitrile and a benzoic acid analogue, in filtered water with varying matrices was developed by the U.S. Geological Survey Organic Geochemistry Research Group in Lawrence, Kansas. Four different water-sample matrices fortified at 0.02 and 0.10 ug/L (micrograms per liter) are extracted by vacuum manifold solid-phase extraction and analyzed by liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry using electrospray ionization in negative-ion mode with multiple-reaction monitoring (MRM). Analytical conditions for mass spectrometry detection are optimized, and quantitation is carried out using the following MRM molecular-hydrogen (precursor) ion and product (p) ion transition pairs: 357.9 (precursor), 78.9 (p), and 277.6 (p) for isoxaflutole and diketonitrile, and 267.0 (precursor), 159.0 (p), and 223.1 (p) for benzoic acid. 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid-d3 is used as the internal standard, and alachlor ethanesulfonic acid-d5 is used as the surrogate standard. Compound detection limits and reporting levels are calculated using U.S. Environmental Protection Agency procedures. The mean solid-phase extraction recovery values ranged from 104 to 108 percent with relative standard deviation percentages ranging from 4.0 to 10.6 percent. The combined mean percentage concentration normalized to the theoretical spiked concentration of four water matrices analyzed eight times at 0.02 and 0.10 ug/L (seven times for the reagent-water matrix at 0.02 ug/L) ranged from approximately 75 to 101 percent with relative standard deviation percentages ranging from approximately 3 to 26 percent for isoxaflutole, diketonitrile, and benzoic acid. The method detection limit (MDL) for isoxaflutole and diketonitrile is 0.003 ug/L and 0.004 ug/L for benzoic acid. Method reporting levels (MRLs) are 0.011, 0.010, and 0.012 ug/L for isoxaflutole, diketonitrile, and benzoic acid, respectively. On the basis of the calculated MRLs and MDLs and evaluation of the signal-to-noise ratios for each compound, the MRLs and MDLs are set at 0.010 and 0.003 ug/L, respectively, for all three compounds.

Occurrence of volatile organic compounds in selected urban streams in the United States, 1995-2003

USGS Publications Warehouse

Bender, David A.; Delzer, Gregory C.; Price, Curtis V.; Zogorski, John S.

2009-01-01

As part of the U.S. Geological Survey's (USGS) National Water-Quality Assessment (NAWQA) Program, urban indicator sites were monitored to (1) characterize the stream quality from drainage basins with predominantly residential and commercial land use, and (2) determine which selected natural and anthropogenic factors affect stream quality. A total of 869 water samples were collected from 37 urban streams during 1995-2003 and were analyzed for 87 volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The occurrence of VOCs in urban streams is described in this report for (1) all samples as a single dataset, (2) all samples grouped by streamflow pentiles, and (3) all samples grouped by warmer (April through September) and cooler (October through March) months by the detection frequency and (or) concentration of (a) any VOC, (b) VOC groups, and (c) individual compounds. An assessment level of 0.02 microgram per liter (ug/L) was used to compute the detection frequencies and concentrations of VOCs. Concentrations of VOCs were compared to (1) U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (USEPA) drinking-water Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) or Drinking Water Advisories, (2) Health-Based Screening Levels (HBSLs) developed by the USGS in collaboration with the USEPA and other agencies, and (3) USEPA and Canadian aquatic-life criteria. One or more VOCs were detected in 97.1 percent of 869 samples, and one or more VOCs were detected frequently (greater than 80 percent) at all sites. The median total VOC concentration for all samples was 0.57 ug/L, and total VOC concentrations in a single sample ranged from not detected to 698 ug/L. About 85 percent of the samples contained two or more VOCs, and about one-half contained five or more VOCs. The gasoline hydrocarbons were the most frequently occurring VOC group followed by solvents, trihalomethanes (THMs), gasoline oxygenates, organic synthesis compounds, fumigants, and refrigerants. Concentration ranges for most VOC groups were distributed over at least two orders of magnitude. Fifty-seven of the 87 VOCs analyzed were detected in at least one sample at an assessment level of 0.02 ug/L. More than one-half of the 30 VOCs not detected in samples were organic synthesis compounds. Fifteen compounds had detection frequencies greater than or equal to 10 percent. With the exception of toluene and chloroform, the median concentration of each VOC for all samples was less than the assessment level. Furthermore, the median concentrations of detections for the 15 most frequently occurring VOCs ranged from 0.03 to 3.9 ug/L, and typically were less than or equal to 0.10 ug/L. The 869 samples from the 37 sites were stratified into five streamflow pentiles (less than 20, 20-less than 40, 40-less than 60, 60-less than 80, and greater than or equal to 80 percent of estimated long-term streamflow statistics) for comparison of the occurrence of VOCs. The detection frequency of one or more VOCs by streamflow pentile varied only slightly from 96.7 to 97.7 percent. The median total VOC concentrations in samples for the five streamflow pentiles ranged from 0.39 to 1.0 ug/L. Two or more VOCs were present in more than 80 percent of samples in each of the five pentiles. The gasoline hydrocarbons, solvents, THMs, and gasoline oxygenates occurred frequently (greater than 30 percent) in all streamflow pentiles, in contrast to the organic synthesis compounds, fumigants, and refrigerants that occurred less frequently in urban streams under all streamflow conditions. The median total VOC concentrations for gasoline hydrocarbons, solvents, gasoline oxygenates, and organic synthesis compounds generally increased as streamflow increased. In contrast, the median total VOC concentrations for THMs and fumigants generally decreased as streamflow increased. The median total VOC concentrations for refrigerants showed no pattern as streamflow increased. Because differences between VOC occurrence and streamflow pentiles were small for most compariso

Uncaging a catalytic hydrogen peroxide generator through the photo-induced release of nitric oxide from a {MnNO}(6) complex.

PubMed

Iwamoto, Yuji; Kodera, Masahito; Hitomi, Yutaka

2015-06-11

The photo-initiated cytotoxicity of a newly developed manganese nitrosyl {MnNO}(6) complex (UG1NO) to HeLa cells is described. The complex was found to be strongly cytotoxic after being exposed to light with a wavelength of 650 nm. Cell death was caused by a manganese(II) complex, UG1, generated from UG1NO through the photo-dissociation of NO, rather than by NO directly. Mechanistic studies revealed that UG1 consumes O2 only in the presence of a reducing agent to catalytically produce H2O2.

Genetic loci conditioning adult plant resistance to the Ug99 race group and seedling resistance to races TRTTF and TTTTF of the stem rust pathogen in wheat landrace CItr 15026

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Wheat landrace CItr 15026 previously showed adult plant resistance (APR) to the Ug99 stem rust race group in Kenya and seedling resistance to Puccinia graminis f. sp tritici (Pgt) races QFCSC, TTTTF, and TRTTF. CItr 15026 was crossed to susceptible accessions LMPG-6 and Red Bobs, and 180 DH lines an...

Dissipative and nonunitary solutions of operator commutation relations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Makarov, K. A.; Tsekanovskii, E.

2016-01-01

We study the (generalized) semi-Weyl commutation relations UgAU* g = g(A) on Dom(A), where A is a densely defined operator and G ∋ g ↦ Ug is a unitary representation of the subgroup G of the affine group G, the group of affine orientation-preserving transformations of the real axis. If A is a symmetric operator, then the group G induces an action/flow on the operator unit ball of contracting transformations from Ker(A* - iI) to Ker(A* + iI). We establish several fixed-point theorems for this flow. In the case of one-parameter continuous subgroups of linear transformations, self-adjoint (maximal dissipative) operators associated with the fixed points of the flow yield solutions of the (restricted) generalized Weyl commutation relations. We show that in the dissipative setting, the restricted Weyl relations admit a variety of representations that are not unitarily equivalent. For deficiency indices (1, 1), the basic results can be strengthened and set in a separate case.

Identification and characterization of wheat stem rust resistance gene Sr21 effective against the Ug99 race group at high temperature

PubMed Central

Chen, Shisheng; Zhang, Wenjun; Bolus, Stephen; Rouse, Matthew N.

2018-01-01

Wheat stem rust, caused by Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici (Pgt), is a devastating foliar disease. The Ug99 race group has combined virulence to most stem rust (Sr) resistance genes deployed in wheat and is a threat to global wheat production. Here we identified a coiled-coil, nucleotide-binding leucine-rich repeat protein (NLR) completely linked to the Ug99 resistance gene Sr21 from Triticum monococcum. Loss-of-function mutations and transgenic complementation confirmed that this gene is Sr21. Sr21 transcripts were significantly higher at high temperatures, and this was associated with significant upregulation of pathogenesis related (PR) genes and increased levels of resistance at those temperatures. Introgression of Sr21 into hexaploid wheat resulted in lower levels of resistance than in diploid wheat, but transgenic hexaploid wheat lines with high levels of Sr21 expression showed high levels of resistance. Sr21 can be a valuable component of transgenic cassettes or gene pyramids combining multiple resistance genes against Ug99. PMID:29614079

U.S. Air Force Installation Restoration Program. Phase 1. Records Search. Air National Guard, Camp Edwards (ARNG), U.S. Air Force and Veteran’s Administration Facilities at Massachusetts Military Reservation, Massachusetts. Appendices: Task 6

DTIC Science & Technology

1986-12-11

MG/L Chmia Oxyge 00340 ARSENIC 01000 002BORON 0102 Total Ov-gale 00640 BARIUM 131005 01007 BORON. 01020 CARDON as C 0 * Diseelvud 0 1 CADMIUM 01025...Goldenrod) U - Utricularia sp. (Bladderwort) B - Scirpus sp. (Bulrush) h6 - Myriophyllum tenellui (Leafless Mil- H2 - Elodea sp. (Waterweed) foil) n1... Dioxide I - -- -- Arsenic C 10 (10 10 410 ug/L Barium 14200 j( 200 (200 (200 ug/L Cadmium !4 10 ( 10 1 10 4 10 ug/L Chromium ( 50 4 50 4 50 50 ugSL

Environmental and occupational exposures to mercury among indigenous people in Dunkwa-On-Offin, a small scale gold mining area in the South-West of Ghana.

PubMed

Kwaansa-Ansah, E E; Basu, N; Nriagu, J O

2010-11-01

Total mercury concentrations in human hair and urine samples were determined to ascertain the extent of environmental and occupational mercury exposure in Dunkwa-On-Offin, a small scale gold mining area of the central-west region of Ghana. In all ninety-four (94) hair and urine samples comprising of forty (40) small scale miners and fifty-four (54) farmers were collected and analyzed for their total mercury levels using the cold vapour atomic absorption spectrometry. The hair total mercury concentrations ranged from 0.63 to 7.19 ug/g with a mean of 2.35 ± 1.58 ug/g for the farmers and 0.57-6.07 ug/g with a mean of 2.14 ± 1.53 ug/g for the small scale gold miners. There was no significant correlation between the total mercury concentration and the average weekly fish diet. The total mercury concentrations in urine of the miners were higher than those of the farmers and ranged from 0.32 to 3.62 ug/L with a mean of 1.23 ± 0.86 ug/L. The urine concentrations of farmers ranged from 0.075 to 2.31 ug/L with a mean of 0.69 ± 0.39 ug/L. Although the results indicate elevated internal dose of mercury the current levels of exposures do not appear to pose a significant health threat to the people.

Promotion of hepatic preneoplastic lesions in male B6C3F1 mice by unleaded gasoline.

PubMed Central

Standeven, A M; Wolf, D C; Goldsworthy, T L

1995-01-01

In previous studies, unleaded gasoline (UG) vapor was found to be a liver tumor promoter and hepatocarcinogen in female mice, but UG was not a hepatocarcinogen in male mice. However, UG vapor had similar transient mitogenic effects in nonlesioned liver of both male and female mice under the conditions of the cancer bioassay. We used an initiation-promotion protocol to determine whether UG vapor acts as a liver tumor promoter in male mice and to examine proliferative effects that may be critical to tumor development. Twelve-day-old male B6C3F1 mice were injected with N-nitrosodiethylamine (DEN; 5 mg/kg, intraperitoneally) or vehicle. Starting at 5-7 weeks of age, mice were exposed by inhalation 6 hr/day, 5 days/week for 16 weeks to 0 or 2046 ppm of PS-6 blend UG. UG treatment caused a significant 2.3-fold increase in the number of macroscopic hepatic masses in DEN-initiated mice, whereas no macroscopic masses were observed in non-initiated mice. Altered hepatic foci (AHF), which were predominantly basophilic in phenotype, were found almost exclusively in DEN-initiated mice. UG treatment significantly increased both the mean volume (threefold) and the volume fraction (twofold) of the AHF without increasing the number of AHF per unit area. UG also induced hepatic pentoxyresorufin-O-dealkylase (PROD) activity, a marker of CYP2B, by more than 12-fold over control with or without DEN cotreatment. To study hepatocyte proliferative effects of UG, we treated mice with 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU) via osmotic pump for 3 days before necropsy and measured hepatocyte BrdU labeling index (LI) in AHF and nonlesioned liver.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) Images Figure 1. PMID:7588481

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

PubMed Central

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

2014-01-01

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

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

PubMed

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

2014-01-01

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

Ground-Water Quality in the Upper Hudson River Basin, New York, 2007

USGS Publications Warehouse

Nystrom, Elizabeth A.

2009-01-01

Water samples were collected from 25 production and domestic wells in the Upper Hudson River Basin (north of the Federal Dam at Troy, N.Y.) from August through November 2007 to characterize the ground-water quality. The Upper Hudson River Basin covers 4,600 square miles in upstate New York, Vermont, and Massachusetts; the study area encompasses the 4,000 square miles that lie within New York. The basin is underlain by crystalline and sedimentary bedrock, including gneiss, shale, and slate; some sandstone and carbonate rocks are present locally. The bedrock in some areas is overlain by surficial deposits of saturated sand and gravel. Of the 25 wells sampled, 13 were finished in sand and gravel deposits, and 12 were finished in bedrock. The samples were collected and processed by standard U.S. Geological Survey procedures and were analyzed for 225 physical properties and constituents, including major ions, nutrients, trace elements, radon-222, pesticides, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and indicator bacteria. Water quality in the study area is generally good, but concentrations of some constituents exceeded current or proposed Federal or New York State drinking-water standards; these were: color (1 sample), pH (2 samples), sodium (5 samples), nitrate plus nitrite (2 samples), aluminum (3 samples), iron (1 sample), manganese (7 samples), radon-222 (11 samples), and bacteria (1 sample). Dissolved-oxygen concentrations in samples from wells finished in sand and gravel [median 5.4 milligrams per liter (mg/L)] were greater than those from wells finished in bedrock (median 0.4 mg/L). The pH of all samples was typically neutral or slightly basic (median 7.6); the median water temperature was 9.7 deg C. The ions with the highest concentrations were bicarbonate (median 123 mg/L) and calcium (median 33.9 mg/L). Ground water in the basin is generally soft to moderately hard (less than or equal to 120 mg/L as CaCO3) (median hardness 110 mg/L as CaCO3). Concentrations of nitrate plus nitrite in samples from sand and gravel wells (median concentration 0.47 mg/L as nitrogen) were generally higher than those in samples from bedrock wells (median estimated 0.05 mg/L as nitrogen), and concentrations in two samples exceeded established drinking-water standards for nitrate (10 mg/L as nitrogen). The trace elements with the highest concentrations were strontium [median 217 micrograms per liter (ug/L)] and iron (median 39 ug/L). The highest radon-222 activities were in samples from bedrock wells [maximum 2,930 picocuries per liter (pCi/L)] and 44 percent of all samples exceeded a proposed U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) drinking-water standard of 300 pCi/L. Ten pesticides and pesticide degradates were detected among 11 samples at concentrations of 1.47 ug/L or less; most were herbicides or their degradates. Six VOCs were detected among 10 samples at concentrations of 4.2 ug/L or less; these included three trihalomethanes and methyl tert-butyl ether, tetrachloroethene, and toluene. Most detections were in samples from sand and gravel wells and none exceeded drinking-water standards. Total coliform bacteria were detected in only one sample, and fecal coliform bacteria, including Escherichia coli, were not detected in any sample.

Mercury hazards from gold mining to humans, plants, and animals

USGS Publications Warehouse

Eisler, R.

2004-01-01

Mercury contamination of the environment from historical and ongoing mining practices that rely on mercury amalgamation for gold extraction is widespread. Contamination was particularly severe in the immediate vicinity of gold extraction and refining operations; however, mercury--especially in the form of water-soluble methylmercury--may be transported to pristine areas by rainwater, water currents, deforestation, volatilization, and other vectors. Examples of gold mining-associated mercury pollution are shown for Canada, the United States, Africa, China, the Philippines, Siberia, and South America. In parts of Brazil, for example, mercury concentrations in all abiotic materials, plants, and animals--including endangered species of mammals and reptiles--collected near ongoing mercury-amalgamation gold mining sites were far in excess of allowable mercury levels promulgated by regulatory agencies for the protection of human health and natural resources. Although health authorities in Brazil are unable to detect conclusive evidence of human mercury intoxication, the potential exists in the absence of mitigation for epidemic mercury poisoning of the mining population and environs. In the United States, environmental mercury contamination is mostly from historical gold mining practices, and portions of Nevada remain sufficiently mercury-contaminated to pose a hazard to reproduction of carnivorous fishes and fish-eating birds. Concentrations of total mercury lethal to sensitive representative natural resources range from 0.1 to 2.0 ug/L of medium for aquatic organisms; from 2200 to 31,000 ug/kg body weight (acute oral) and 4000 to 40,000 ug/kg (dietary) for birds; and from 100 to 500 ug/kg body weight (daily dose) and 1000 to 5000 ug/kg diet for mammals. Significant adverse sublethal effects were observed among selected aquatic species at water concentrations of 0.03 to 0.1 ug Hg/L. For some birds, adverse effects--mainly on reproduction--have been associated with total mercury concentrations (in ug/kg fresh weight) of 5000 in feather, 900 in egg, and 50 to 100 in diet; and with daily intakes of 640 ug/kg body weight. Sensitive nonhuman mammals showed significant adverse effects of mercury when daily intakes were 250 ug/kg body weight, when dietary levels were 1100 ug/kg, or when tissue concentrations exceeded 1100 ug/kg. Proposed mercury criteria for protection of aquatic life range from 0.012 ug/L for freshwater life to 0.025 ug/L for marine life; for birds, less than 100 ug/kg diet fresh weight; and for small mammals, less than 1100 ug/kg fresh weight diet. All of these proposed criteria provide, at best, minimal protection.

Involving postgraduate's students in undergraduate small group teaching promotes active learning in both

PubMed Central

Kalra, Ruchi; Modi, Jyoti Nath; Vyas, Rashmi

2015-01-01

Background: Lecture is a common traditional method for teaching, but it may not stimulate higher order thinking and students may also be hesitant to express and interact. The postgraduate (PG) students are less involved with undergraduate (UG) teaching. Team based small group active learning method can contribute to better learning experience. Aim: To-promote active learning skills among the UG students using small group teaching methods involving PG students as facilitators to impart hands-on supervised training in teaching and managerial skills. Methodology: After Institutional approval under faculty supervision 92 UGs and 8 PGs participated in 6 small group sessions utilizing the jigsaw technique. Feedback was collected from both. Observations: Undergraduate Feedback (Percentage of Students Agreed): Learning in small groups was a good experience as it helped in better understanding of the subject (72%), students explored multiple reading resources (79%), they were actively involved in self-learning (88%), students reported initial apprehension of performance (71%), identified their learning gaps (86%), team enhanced their learning process (71%), informal learning in place of lecture was a welcome change (86%), it improved their communication skills (82%), small group learning can be useful for future self-learning (75%). Postgraduate Feedback: Majority performed facilitation for first time, perceived their performance as good (75%), it was helpful in self-learning (100%), felt confident of managing students in small groups (100%), as facilitator they improved their teaching skills, found it more useful and better identified own learning gaps (87.5%). Conclusions: Learning in small groups adopting team based approach involving both UGs and PGs promoted active learning in both and enhanced the teaching skills of the PGs. PMID:26380201

Adoptive Immunotherapy Combined with Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation as a Therapeutic Treatment of Prostate Cancer

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-07-01

prostate lysate (0.1 to 10 ug/ml) hemocyanin (0.1 to 1 ug/ml) MDCK (1 ug/ml) or canine vaccine (Parvo, rabies, and distemper at a 1:500 dilution of...We determined that a prostate cell lysate prepared from canine prostate tissue was immunogenic when injected in female dogs. In addition to the...known prostate antigen, canine prostate specific esterase (CPSE), we identified by molecular weight several other proteins against which the dog made IgG

Identification of wheat gene Sr35 that confers resistance to Ug99 stem rust race group

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Wheat stem rust, caused by Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici (Pgt) is a devastating disease that can cause severe yield losses. A new Pgt race designated Ug99 has overcome most of the widely used resistance genes and is spreading through Africa and Asia threatening major wheat production areas. We re...

Effects of dried wastewater-treatment sludge application on ground-water quality in South Dade County, Florida

USGS Publications Warehouse

Howie, Barbara

1992-01-01

Four test fields in the south Dade agricultural area were studied to determine the effects of sludge application on ground-water quality. Two fields had been cultivated for 10 years or more, and two had not been farmed for at least 10 years. The fields were representative of the area's two soil types (Rockdale and Perrine marl) and two major crop types (row crops and groves). Before the application of sludge, wells upgradient of, within, and downgradient of each field were sampled for possible sludge contaminants at the end of wet and dry seasons. Municipal wastewater treatment sludge from the Dade County Water and Sewe Authority Department was then applied to the fields at varying application rates. The wells at each field were sampled over a 2-year period under different hydrologic conditions for possible sludge-related constituents (specific conductance, pH, alkalinity, nitrogen, phosphorus, total organic carbon, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, potassium, zinc, arsenic, cadmium, chloride, chromium, lead, mercury, nickel, and sodium). Comparisons were made between water quality in the vicinity of the test fields and Florida Department of Environmental Regulation primary and secondary drinking-water regulations, an between water quality upgradient of, beneath, and downgradient of the fields. Comparisons between presludge and postsludge water quality did not indicate any improvement because of retention of agrichemicals by the sludge nor did they indicate any deterioration because of leaching from the sludge. Comparisons of water quality upgradient of the fields to water quality beneath and downgradient of the fields also did not indicate any changes related to sludge. Florida Department of Environmental Regulation primary and secondary drinking-water regulations wer exceeded at the Rockdale maximum-application field by mercury (9.5 ug/L (micrograms per liter)), and the Perrine marl maximum-application field by manganese (60 ug/L) and lead (85 ug/L), and at the Perrine marl row-crop field by mercury (5.2 ug/L). All other exceedances were either in presludge or upgradient samples, or they were for constituents or properties, such as iron and color, which typically exceed standards in native ground water. Acid-extractable and base-neutral compounds, volatile organic compounds, chlorophenoxy herbicides, organophosphorus insecticides, and organochlorine compounds were analyzed for one shallow well at each field twice annually. Those compounds that equaled or exceeded the detection limit after sludge was applied included benzene (0.3 and 1.2 ug/L), chloroform (0.2 and 0.3 ug/L), bis(2-Ethylhexyl)phthalate (29 and 42 ug/L), methylene chloride (14 ug/L), tolulene (0.2, 0.4, 0.5, 1.3, and 4.4 ug/L), 1, 1,1-trichloroethana (0.6 ug/L), trichloroethylene (0.3 ug/L), 2.4-D (0.01 ug/L), and xylene (0.3 ug/L). It ws not possible to ascertain the origin of these compounds becuase they are available from sources other than sludge.

Tocopherol in Elder Self-Neglect

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Aung, K.; Burnett, J.; Dyer, C.; Smith, S. M.

2009-01-01

Although elder self-neglect is the most common form of elder mistreatment, its pathophysiology is not well understood. Alpha-tocopherol is a lipid soluble antioxidant required for the preservation of cell membranes. Since the association between tocopherol and cognitive impairment in older adults has been described, we explored the possibility of its role in elder self-neglect. OBJECTIVE: (1) To determine whether serum tocopherol levels are associated with elder self-neglect, and (2) to assess the association of serum tocopherol levels and cognitive function in elder self-neglect. METHODS: Serum tocopherol levels were measured in a cohort of 67 self-neglecting elders and 67 matched controls, recruited for the Consortium for Research in Elder Self-neglect of Texas. Pearson s correlation tests were performed to assess bivariate associations between serum tocopherol levels and cognitive function. RESULTS: Mean serum alpha-tocopherol levels were 10.8 +/- 4.7 ug/mL in self-neglect group and 13.0 +/- 4.9 ug/mL in control group (p = 0.006, unpaired student s t-test). None of the participants from either group had alpha-tocopherol level lower than the reference range. Mean serum gamma-tocopherol levels were 2.0 +/- 1.0 ug/mL in self-neglect group and 2.0 +/- 1.1 in control group (p=0.83). Proportion of the elders with gamma-tocopherol level lower than the reference range were 4.5% (3/66) in self-neglect group and 10.4% (7/67) in control group (p=0.32, Fisher s Exact Test). Among the self-neglecting elders, no association was found between serum alpha-tocopherol levels and the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) or the Wolf-Klein Clock Drawing Test (CDT) scores (r =-0.42, p=0.75 for MMSE; r=0.08, p=0.54 for CDT). No association was found between serum gamma-tocopherol levels and the MMSE or the CDT (r=-0.12, p=0.35 for MMSE; r=0.05, p=0.68 for CDT). CONCLUSION: In our sample, neither alpha-tocopherol nor gamma-tocopherol appears to have a role in pathophysiology of elder self-neglect. Nevertheless, significantly lower serum alpha-tocopherol levels in the self neglect group merits further research.

46 CFR 54.10-3 - Marine inspectors (replaces UG-90 and UG-91, and modifies UG-92 through UG-103).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Marine inspectors (replaces UG-90 and UG-91, and modifies UG-92 through UG-103). 54.10-3 Section 54.10-3 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS Inspection, Reports, and Stamping § 54.10-3 Marine inspectors (replaces UG-90 and UG-91, and...

46 CFR 54.10-3 - Marine inspectors (replaces UG-90 and UG-91, and modifies UG-92 through UG-103).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Marine inspectors (replaces UG-90 and UG-91, and modifies UG-92 through UG-103). 54.10-3 Section 54.10-3 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS Inspection, Reports, and Stamping § 54.10-3 Marine inspectors (replaces UG-90 and UG-91, and...

46 CFR 54.10-3 - Marine inspectors (replaces UG-90 and UG-91, and modifies UG-92 through UG-103).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Marine inspectors (replaces UG-90 and UG-91, and modifies UG-92 through UG-103). 54.10-3 Section 54.10-3 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS Inspection, Reports, and Stamping § 54.10-3 Marine inspectors (replaces UG-90 and UG-91, and...

46 CFR 54.10-3 - Marine inspectors (replaces UG-90 and UG-91, and modifies UG-92 through UG-103).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Marine inspectors (replaces UG-90 and UG-91, and modifies UG-92 through UG-103). 54.10-3 Section 54.10-3 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS Inspection, Reports, and Stamping § 54.10-3 Marine inspectors (replaces UG-90 and UG-91, and...

46 CFR 54.10-3 - Marine inspectors (replaces UG-90 and UG-91, and modifies UG-92 through UG-103).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Marine inspectors (replaces UG-90 and UG-91, and modifies UG-92 through UG-103). 54.10-3 Section 54.10-3 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS Inspection, Reports, and Stamping § 54.10-3 Marine inspectors (replaces UG-90 and UG-91, and...

The Dixmier Map for Nilpotent Super Lie Algebras

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Herscovich, Estanislao

2012-07-01

In this article we prove that there exists a Dixmier map for nilpotent super Lie algebras. In other words, if we denote by {Prim({U}({g}))} the set of (graded) primitive ideals of the enveloping algebra {{U}({g})} of a nilpotent Lie superalgebra {{g}} and {{A}d0} the adjoint group of {{g}0}, we prove that the usual Dixmier map for nilpotent Lie algebras can be naturally extended to the context of nilpotent super Lie algebras, i.e. there exists a bijective map I : {g}0^{*}/{A}d0 rightarrow Prim({U}({g})) defined by sending the equivalence class [ λ] of a functional λ to a primitive ideal I( λ) of {{U}({g})}, and which coincides with the Dixmier map in the case of nilpotent Lie algebras. Moreover, the construction of the previous map is explicit, and more or less parallel to the one for Lie algebras, a major difference with a previous approach ( cf. [18]). One key fact in the construction is the existence of polarizations for super Lie algebras, generalizing the concept defined for Lie algebras. As a corollary of the previous description, we obtain the isomorphism {{U}({g})/I(λ) ˜eq Cliffq(k) ⊗ Ap(k)}, where {(p,q) = (dim({g}0/{g}0^{λ})/2,dim({g}1/{g}1^{λ}))}, we get a direct construction of the maximal ideals of the underlying algebra of {{U}({g})} and also some properties of the stabilizers of the primitive ideals of {{U}({g})}.

Production of xylanase from an alkali tolerant Streptomyces sp. 7b under solid-state fermentation, its purification, and characterization.

PubMed

Bajaj, Bijender Kumar; Singh, Narendera Pratap

2010-11-01

Streptomyces sp. 7b showed highest xylanase activity among 41 bacterial isolates screened under submerged fermentation. The organism grew over broad pH (5-11) and temperatures range (25-55 degrees C) and displayed maximum xylanase production on wheat bran (1230 U/g) under solid-state fermentation. Xylanase production was enhanced substantially (76%-77%) by inclusion of trypton (2180 U/g) or beef extract (2170 U/g) and moderately (36%-46%) by yeast extract (1800 U/g) or soybean meal (1670 U/g). Inclusion of readily utilizable sugars such as glucose, maltose, fructose, lactose or xylose in the substrate repressed the xylanase production. The optimum initial pH of the medium for maximum enzyme production was 7 to 8; however, appreciable level of activity was obtained at pH 6 (1,680 U/g) and 9 (1,900 U/g). Most appropriate solid to liquid ratio for maximum xylanase production in solid-state fermentation was found to be 1:2.5. The organism produced a single xylanase of molecular weight of approximately 30 kDa as analyzed by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis after purification with ammonium sulfate precipitation, and carboxy methyl sephadex chromatography. The enzyme was purified to the extent of 5.68-fold by salt precipitation and ion-exchange chromatography. Optimum temperature and pH for maximum xylanase activity were 50 degrees C and 6, respectively.

Mechanisms and Simulation of accelerated shrinkage of continental glaciers: a case study of Urumqi Glacier No. 1 Eastern Tianshan, Central Asia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Zhongqin; Ren, Jiawen; Li, Huilin; Wang, Puyu; Wang, Feiteng

2016-04-01

Similar to most mountain glaciers in the world, Urumqi Glacier No. 1 (UG1), the best observed glacier in China with continued glaciological and climatological monitoring records of longer than 50 years has experienced an accelerated recession during the past several decades. The purpose of this study is to investigate the acceleration of recession. By taking UG1 as an example, we analyze the generic mechanisms of acceleration of shrinkage of continental mountain glaciers. The results indicate that the acceleration of mass loss of UG1 commenced first in 1985 and second in 1996 and that the latter was more vigorous. The air temperature rises during melting season, the ice temperature augment of the glacier and the albedo reduction on the glacier surface are considered responsible for the accelerated recession. In addition, the simulations of the accelerated shrinkage of UG1 are introduced.

Applications of Universal Grammar (UG) in the ESL/EFL Classroom

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kirkwold, Lorne O.

2007-01-01

The article proposes Stern's (1983) framework for classifying issues related to instruction in order to ascertain the relevance of Universal Grammar (UG) in the ESL/EFL classroom. Discussed in this article, particularly as UG pertains to them, are issues related to: (a) L1 transfer; (b) teaching rules and giving error correction versus presenting…

QTL mapping of adult plant resistance to Ug99 stem rust in the spring wheat population RB07/MN06113-8

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The emergence and spread of the Ug99 race group of the stem rust pathogen in the past decade has exposed the vulnerability of wheat to this disease. Discovery of novel and effective sources of resistance is vital to reduce losses. The experimental breeding line MN06113-8 and cultivar RB07 developed ...

Fine mapping and characterization of Sr21, a temperature-sensitive diploid wheat resistance gene effective against the Puccinia graminis f.sp. tritici Ug99 race group

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

A new race of Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici, the causal pathogen of stem rust of wheat, designated TTKSK (also known as Ug99) and its variants are virulent to most of the stem rust resistance genes currently deployed in wheat cultivars worldwide. Therefore, identification, mapping and deployment ...

A comparison of stress levels, coping styles and psychological morbidity between graduate-entry and traditional undergraduate medical students during the first 2 years at a UK medical school.

PubMed

Zvauya, R; Oyebode, F; Day, E J; Thomas, C P; Jones, L A

2017-02-13

Stress levels and psychological morbidity are high among undergraduate medical students (UGs), but there is a lack of research into the psychological health of UK graduate-entry medical students (GEs). GEs are likely to experience different (perhaps more severe) stressors and to cope with stress differently. We compared stress levels, psychological morbidity and coping styles in GE versus UG medical students studying at the same UK medical school in the same academic year. A cross-sectional self-rated questionnaire study of all first- and second-year GE and UG medical students was conducted. Perceived stress, psychological morbidity, recent adverse life events, stress-related personality traits and coping styles were assessed using standard questionnaires. 75% GEs and 46% UGs responded to the questionnaire. Both groups reported equally high levels, and similar profiles of, perceived stress and psychological morbidity. Levels of recent adverse life events and stress-related personality traits were similar in both groups. Compared to UGs, GEs were more likely to use active coping (p = 0.02) and positive reframing (p = 0.03), but were also more likely to use substances (alcohol and other drugs; p < 0.001) to help them cope. Unlike UGs, second-year GEs showed less perceived stress (p = 0.007) and psychological morbidity (p = 0.006) than first-year GEs although levels of both were still high. Our results show that both GE students and their younger UG counterparts on a traditional medical course have similar profiles of stress symptoms. They do, however, cope with stress differently. GEs are more likely to use active problem-focused coping strategies, and they are also more likely to cope by using substances (alcohol or other drugs). GE students need interventions to prevent maladaptive coping styles and encourage adaptive coping that are tailored to their needs. Such interventions should be targeted at first-year students. It is vital that these students develop positive coping skills to benefit them during training and in a future career that is inherently stressful.

Characterization of humoral responses to soluble trimeric HIV gp140 from a clade A Ugandan field isolate

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Trimeric soluble forms of HIV gp140 envelope glycoproteins represent one of the closest molecular structures compared to native spikes present on intact virus particles. Trimeric soluble gp140 have been generated by several groups and such molecules have been shown to induce antibodies with neutralizing activity against homologous and heterologous viruses. In the present study, we generated a recombinant trimeric soluble gp140, derived from a previously identified Ugandan A-clade HIV field isolate (gp14094UG018). Antibodies elicited in immunized rabbits show a broad binding pattern to HIV envelopes of different clades. An epitope mapping analysis reveals that, on average, the binding is mostly focused on the C1, C2, V3, V5 and C5 regions. Immune sera show neutralization activity to Tier 1 isolates of different clades, demonstrating cross clade neutralizing activity which needs to be further broadened by possible structural modifications of the clade A gp14094UG018. Our results provide a rationale for the design and evaluation of immunogens and the clade A gp14094UG018 shows promising characteristics for potential involvement in an effective HIV vaccine with broad activity. PMID:23835244

Characterization of humoral responses to soluble trimeric HIV gp140 from a clade A Ugandan field isolate.

PubMed

Visciano, Maria Luisa; Tagliamonte, Maria; Stewart-Jones, Guillaume; Heyndrickx, Leo; Vanham, Guido; Jansson, Marianne; Fomsgaard, Anders; Grevstad, Berit; Ramaswamy, Meghna; Buonaguro, Franco M; Tornesello, Maria Lina; Biswas, Priscilla; Scarlatti, Gabriella; Buonaguro, Luigi

2013-07-08

Trimeric soluble forms of HIV gp140 envelope glycoproteins represent one of the closest molecular structures compared to native spikes present on intact virus particles. Trimeric soluble gp140 have been generated by several groups and such molecules have been shown to induce antibodies with neutralizing activity against homologous and heterologous viruses. In the present study, we generated a recombinant trimeric soluble gp140, derived from a previously identified Ugandan A-clade HIV field isolate (gp14094UG018). Antibodies elicited in immunized rabbits show a broad binding pattern to HIV envelopes of different clades. An epitope mapping analysis reveals that, on average, the binding is mostly focused on the C1, C2, V3, V5 and C5 regions. Immune sera show neutralization activity to Tier 1 isolates of different clades, demonstrating cross clade neutralizing activity which needs to be further broadened by possible structural modifications of the clade A gp14094UG018. Our results provide a rationale for the design and evaluation of immunogens and the clade A gp14094UG018 shows promising characteristics for potential involvement in an effective HIV vaccine with broad activity.

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

PubMed

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

1992-09-01

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

[Evaluation of adiponectin level in children and adolescents with diabetes type 1].

PubMed

Peczyńska, Jadwiga; Urban, Mirosława; Głowińska, Barbara; Florys, Bozena

2008-01-01

Adipose tissue is not only an energy storage place, but it also secretes numerous "adipocytokines" - substances that have systemic influence. Adiponectin has an anti-inflammatory, antiatherogenic properties and increases insulin sensitivity. It is emphasized that adiponectin levels are different in type 1 and type 2 diabetes. was to evaluate adiponectin levels in young patients with diabetes type 1, and to analyse of the correlation between adiponectin and: BMI, lipid parameters, glomerular filtration rate and microalbuminuria. The study group was formed by 95 patients from the Outpatient Diabetology Department 2nd Department of Children's Diseases, 45 girls and 50 boys, aged from 7 to 20 years (mean - 14.97 yrs) suffering from diabetes from 1 to 17 years (mean 6.68 yrs). Control group consisted of healthy children, age matched, without family history of cardiovascular diseases. In all patients anthropometric measurements were performed (BMI was calculated), metabolic control was evaluated on the basis of HbA1c level, microalbuminuria was studied in 24 hour urine sample. We assessed glomerular filtration rate (endogenous creatinine clearance), lipid parameters and adiponectin level. In children and adolescents with diabetes type 1 we found significantly higher levels of adiponectin compared to control group: 32.72+/-13.49 vs. 26.53+/-7.63 ug/ml; p=0.024. Adiponectin level was higher in girls than in boys (33.56 vs. 28.75 ug/ml; p=0.036). Adiponectin level did not depend on metabolic control and on diabetes duration. We found a statistically significant negative correlation between adiponectin and creatinine (r=-0.26; p=0.011). In patients with diabetic complications we found insignificantly lower adiponectin level compared to patients without complications (30.99+/-14.29 vs. 33.67+/-11.68 ug/ml; p=0.35). 1. In patients with diabetes type 1 significantly higher level of adiponectin was found compared to healthy control group. 2. Adiponectin level correlated negatively with creatinine level end microalbuminuria. 3. Elevated level of adiponectin in patients without diabetic complications may help to explain the pathogenesis of diabetic angiopathy.

Muramyl Peptide-Enhanced Sleep: Pharmacological Optimization of Performance

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-06-01

reduction in fever was significant across the 6-h recording period. The attenuation of fever was apparent by postinjection hour 2 when 0.5 pg CRF was...injection of this dose of CRF alone. This reduction of fever was significant across the 6-h recording period (Friedman’s test). In contrast, 1.25 ug CRF...identify by block number) FIELD GROUP SUB-GROUP 1Keywords: sleep, muramyl peptide, interleukin-1, 06 03 interleukin-6, fever , bacterial infection, EEG

Clinical Significance of Soluble Hemoglobin Scavenger Receptor CD163 (sCD163) in Sepsis, a Prospective Study

PubMed Central

Feng, Lin; Zhou, Xin; Su, Long-Xiang; Feng, Dan; Jia, Yan-Hong; Xie, Li-Xin

2012-01-01

Objective We investigated serum soluble CD163 (sCD163) levels for use in the diagnosis, severity assessment, and prognosis of sepsis in the critical ill patients and compared sCD163 with other infection-related variables. Methods During july 2010 and April 2011, serum was obtained from 102 sepsis patients (days 1, 3, 5, 7, and 10 after admission to an ICU) and 30 systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) patients with no sepsis diagnosed. Serum levels of sCD163, procalcitonon (PCT), and C reactive protein (CRP) were determined respectively. Sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) scores for sepsis patients were also recorded. Then evaluated their roles in sepsis. Results The sCD163 levels were 0.88(0.78–1.00)ug/mL for SIRS patients, 1.50(0.92–2.00)ug/mL for moderate sepsis patients, and 2.95(2.18–5.57)ug/mL for severe sepsis patients on day1. The areas under the ROC curves for sCD163, CRP, and PCT for the diagnosis of sepsis were, respectively, 0.856(95%CI: 0.791–0.921), 0.696(95%CI: 0.595–0.797), and 0.629(95%CI: 0.495–0.763), At the recommended cut-off 1.49 ug/mL for sCD163, the sensitivity is 74.0% with 93.3% specificity. Based on 28-day survivals, sCD163 levels in the surviving group stay constant, while they tended to gradually increase in the non-surviving group.The area under the ROC curve for sCD163 for sepsis prognosis was 0.706(95%CI 0.558–0.804). Levels of sCD163 with cut-off point >2.84 ug/mL have sensitivity of 55.8.0%, specificity 80.4%.Common risk factors for death and sCD163 were included in multivariate logistic regression analysis; the odds ratios (OR) for sCD163 and SOFA scores for sepsis prognosis were 1.173 and 1.396, respectively (P<0.05). Spearman rank correlation analysis showed that sCD163 was weakly, but positively correlated with CRP, PCT, and SOFA scores (0.2< r <0.4, P<0.0001), but not with leukocyte counts (r <0.2, P = 0.450). Conclusion Serum sCD163 is superior to PCT and CRP for the diagnosis of sepsis and differentiate the severity of sepsis. sCD163 levels were more sensitive for dynamic evaluations of sepsis prognosis. Serum sCD163 and SOFA scores are prognostic factors for sepsis. Trial Registration www.chictr.org ChiCTR-ONC-10000812 PMID:22911680

Emergence of virulence to SrTmp in the Ug99 race group of wheat stem rust, Puccinia graminis f.sp. tritici in Africa

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The Ug99 race (TTKSK) of wheat stem rust was first detected in Uganda in 1998, and since then seven additional variants have been reported, i.e., TTKSF, TTKST, TTTSK, TTKSP, PTKSK, PTKST, and TTKSF+. In this study, 84 stem rust samples from the 2014 surveys of wheat fields in east Africa (Kenya, 9; ...

Gonadal morphogenesis and gene expression in reptiles with temperature-dependent sex determination.

PubMed

Merchant-Larios, H; Díaz-Hernández, V; Marmolejo-Valencia, A

2010-01-01

In reptiles with temperature-dependent sexual determination, the thermosensitive period (TSP) is the interval in which the sex is defined during gonadal morphogenesis. One-shift experiments in a group of eggs define the onset and the end of the TSP as all and none responses, respectively. Timing for sex-undetermined (UG) and -determined gonads (DG) differs at male- (MPT) or female-producing temperatures (FPT). During the TSP a decreasing number of embryos respond to temperature shifts indicating that in this period embryos with both UG and DG exist. Although most UG correspond to undifferentiated gonads, some embryos extend UG after the onset of histological differentiation. Thus, temperature affects gonadal cells during the process of morphogenesis, but timing of commitment depends on individual embryos. A correlation between gonadal morphogenesis, TSP, and gene expression suggests that determination of the molecular pathways modulated by temperature in epithelial cells (surface epithelium and medullary cords) holds the key for a unifying hypothesis on temperature-dependent sex determination. (c) 2010 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Asian Dust Observed During the KORUS Air Quality Mission Creates Significant Super-Micron NO3-, NH4+, and SO42- Aerosols.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Heim, E. W.; Dibb, J. E.; Scheuer, E. M.

2017-12-01

The KORUS mission was a collaborative effort between the Korean Institute of Environmental Research and NASA. KORUS provided a comprehensive assessment of air quality in Korea during early 2016. The intensive sampling campaign was timed to assess local photochemistry during increasing solar insolation and biogenic emissions; after the April peak in outflow of pollution and dust from central China. Chinese outflow is well characterized by Silica-Calcium rich dust. Despite the effort to avoid the period with strongest dust outflow, Ca2+ was well represented in all bulk (particle diameters up to 4.5 micron) aerosol filter samples < 3 kilometers altitude (m = 0.640 ug/m3, s = 0.759, n=880). In particular, four flights were heavily impacted by Chinese outflow :(m = 1.607 ug/m3, s = 1.149, n = 152). Back trajectories from the flight tracks of these 4 flights indicate transport from desert regions in north central China. This dust presents a basic surface for the abundant anthropogenic acids (HNO3, H2SO4) to interact with. In combination with abundant anthropogenic NH3 these acids react with CaCO3 contained in the dust in cyclic reactions that form dust cores covered in a shell of acid-base reaction products. The difference between bulk filter measurements and submicron measurements of NH4+, SO42, and NO3- made by AMS indicates substantial super-micron fractions of these anthropogenic ions at times during KORUS-AQ. During the dustiest samples (Ca2+ > 1.5ug/m3) we see marked increases in super-micron concentration of NH4+, SO42-, and NO3-, m = 1.113 ug/m3 , 2.621 ug/m3 , 4.413 ug/m3, with the super-micron contribution to total concentration averaging 47%, 45%, and 81% respectively. In contrast, low dust days (Ca2+ < 0.2ug/m3) the super-micron concentrations averaged 0.262 ug/m3, 0.510 ug/m3, -0.029 ug/m3, respectively and accounted for just 20%, 14%, and 8% of total mass. During the dust events, samples that have trajectories passing over industrial centers in eastern China approached equivalence balance between Ca2++ NH4+ and SO42-+NO3-. In contrast dusty samples that did not pass over these industrial centers during transport to the West Sea and Korea maintained excess cations, dominantly Ca2+. This suggests that dust can act as an important carrier of Chinese pollution to Korea when this saturated dust reaches the peninsula.

Medical undergraduates' contributions to publication output of world's top universities in 2013.

PubMed

Gouda, M A; Zidan, H S; Marey, A A; Gameal, M G; Elmahrook, R G; Saleh, A; Nasr, A A; Seifelnasr, O; Radwan, A E; Shahen, A; Elgayar, M M; Elabd, A A; Mohamed, K S; Hammad, M F; Badr, M M

2016-09-01

Medical undergraduates' (UGs) involvement in research activities is thought to be mutually beneficial to students, their mentors and the scholarly productivity of their universities. However, most evidence in favor of such assumption relies on subjective measures such as the self-reported gains in skills or knowledge rather than robust objective estimates for assessing impact. We aimed to objectively track and describe publications with UG co-authors-their proportion to the total publication output of world's top universities, their characteristics and their potential impact on biomedical literature. We contacted the corresponding authors of the 2013's Medline-indexed publications affiliated to world's top 10 universities to investigate if any of their co-authors was an UG. Articles with UG co-authors were further assessed to determine, along with other variables: the type of study design, field of the article, publishing journal and its impact factor (IF), and number of received citations. Out of 25 152 publications, 2537 articles (10.1%) contained at least one UG co-author who was the first author in 635 papers (25%). Articles with UG co-authors were published in 1114 journals with a median IF of 3.661. Most UGs' co-authored publications (82.7%, n = 2098) were cited at least once within 1 year, for a median of three citations per article. UGs contributed to one in every 10 publications affiliated to top universities. Their papers were published in journals with good IFs and received a fair number of citations, which would reflect the relatively good quality and impact of these articles. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Association of Physicians. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

National Dam Safety Program. Upper Mohawk Lake Dam (NJ00292), Delaware River Basin, Tributary to Paulins Kill River, Sussex County, New Jersey. Phase I Inspection Report.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-07-01

AD-AI03 500 NEW JERSEY DEPT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION TRENTON --ETC F/G 13/13 NATIONAL DAM SAFETY PROGRA . UPPER MOHAWK LAKE DAM (NJOO292) D0-TC...NATIONAL DAM SAFETY PROGRAM DTIC UG 3 1981 PRO F, SA G DISTl-%iL ~ Lj,,. U L TED. DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY Philadelphie District Corps oF Engineers...GOVT ACCESSION Ni. 3. RECIPLLT*S CATALOG NUMBER ib EN/NAP-�/NJO0292-81/07 0, u)-, c J . () 4. TITLE (and Subtl) S. TYPE OF REPORT a PERIOD

Design and finite element analysis of a novel sliding rod microscrew implantation device for mandibular prognathism

PubMed Central

Li, Yanfeng; Lv, Yuan; Lu, Yongjin; Zeng, Pan; Zeng, Xianglong; Guo, Xiaoqian; Han, Weili

2015-01-01

Tooth distalization is an effective approach for mandibular prognathism. Current distalization devices are bulky and clinically complicated. Here, we designed a novel molar distalization device by using a sliding rod and a microscrew and performed a mechanical analysis and finite element model (FEM) analysis of force distribution and displacement of the upper canine, first and second premolar and first molar. A 2D FEM was constructed using the Beam3 element and a 3D FEM was constructed of the mandibular teeth, the periodontal membrane, and the alveolar bones using the UG software. The upper first molar was divided into 12 points on the dental surface to facilitate stress analysis. Force analysis using the ANSYS WORKBECNH revealed that, both horizontally and vertically, the traction force causing distalization of the first molar decreased when the spring coil moved down the L shaped sliding rod. The 3D FEM force analysis revealed distomedial displacement of the upper first molar when the sliding rod microscrew implantation device caused distalization of the molar. These findings support further exploration for the use of the sliding rod microscrew implants as an anchorage for group distal movement of the teeth of patients with mandibular prognathism. PMID:26379860

Toxicity of lead-contaminated sediment to mute swans

USGS Publications Warehouse

Day, D.D.; Beyer, W.N.; Hoffman, D.J.; Morton, Alexandra; Sileo, L.; Audet, D.J.; Ottinger, M.A.

2003-01-01

Most ecotoxicological risk assessments of wildlife emphasize contaminant exposure through ingestion of food and water. However, the role of incidental ingestion of sediment-bound contaminants has not been adequately appreciated in these assessments. This study evaluates the toxicological consequences of contamination of sediments with metals from hard-rock mining and smelting activities. Lead-contaminated sediments collected from the Coeur d'Alene River Basin in Idaho were combined with either a commercial avian maintenance diet or ground rice and fed to captive mute swans (Cygnus olor) for 6 weeks. Experimental treatments consisted of maintenance or rice diets containing 0, 12 (no rice group), or 24% highly contaminated (3,950 ug/g lead) sediment or 24% reference (9.7 ug/g lead) sediment. Although none of the swans died, the group fed a rice diet containing 24% lead-contaminated sediment were the most severely affected, experiencing a 24% decrease in mean body weight, including three birds that became emaciated. All birds in this treatment group had nephrosis; abnormally dark, viscous bile; and significant (p < 0.05) reductions in hematocrit and hemoglobin concentrations compared to their pretreatment levels. This group also had the greatest mean concentrations of lead in blood (3.2 ug/g), brain (2.2 ug/g), and liver (8.5 ug/g). These birds had significant (alpha = 0.05) increases in mean plasma alanine aminotransferase activity, cholesterol, and uric acid concentrations and decreased plasma triglyceride concentrations compared to all other treatment groups. After 14 days of exposure, mean protoporphyrin concentrations increased substantially, and mean delta-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase activity decreased by more than 95% in all groups fed diets containing highly contaminated sediments. All swans fed diets that contained 24% lead-contaminated sediment had renal acid-fast intranuclear inclusion bodies, which are diagnostic of lead poisoning in waterfowl. Body weight and hematocrit and hemoglobin concentrations in swans on control (no sediment) and reference (uncontaminated) sediment diets remained unchanged. These data provide evidence that mute swans consuming environmentally relevant concentrations of Coeur d'Alene River Basin sediment developed severe sublethal lead poisoning. Furthermore, toxic effects were more pronounced when the birds were fed lead contaminated sediment combined with rice, which closely resembles the diet of swans in the wild.

Huperzine A: Behavioral and Pharmacological Evaluation in Rhesus Monkeys

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-06-01

challenged with 30 ug/kg scopolamine . Doses of 1 and 10 ug/kg HUP improved choice accuracy on a previously learned delayed spatial memory task in the...elderly subjects, and doses of 10 and 100 ug/kg reversed the scopolamine -induced deficits in the younger monkeys. Unfortunately, no data regarding...interval) in the spatial memory task differentially modulated the drug effects on performance. Specifically, scopolamine impaired accuracy

Metabolomic effects in HepG2 cells exposed to CeO2, SiO2 and CuO nanomaterials.

EPA Science Inventory

To better assess potential hepatotoxicity of nanomaterials, human liver HepG2 cells were exposed for three days to 5 different CeO2 (either 30 or 100 ug/ml), 3 SiO2 based (30 ug/ml) or 1 CuO (3 ug/ml) nanomaterials with dry primary particle sizes ranging from 15 to 213 nm. Metab...

Association of 1,5-anhydroglucitol with diabetes and microvascular conditions

PubMed Central

Selvin, Elizabeth; Rawlings, Andreea M.; Grams, Morgan; Klein, Ronald; Steffes, Michael; Coresh, Josef

2014-01-01

Background 1,5-anhydroglucitol (1,5-AG) is inversely related to hyperglycemia and may be a useful indicator of short-term (1-2 week) hyperglycemia and glycemic excursions but its prognostic value is unclear. We sought to evaluate the associations of 1,5-AG with risk of diabetes and microvascular disease. Methods We measured 1,5-AG in blood samples from over 10,000 participants in the ARIC Study (baseline, 1990-1992) and characterized the independent associations with prevalent retinopathy, and with incident chronic kidney disease and incident diabetes during approximately 20 years of follow-up. Results We found that 1,5-AG was associated with prevalent retinopathy, driven primarily by the strong association in persons with diagnosed diabetes: adjusted OR 11.26 (95%CI 6.17-20.53) for <6 ug/mL compared to 1,5-AG ≥10 ug/mL. This result remained significant after further adjustment for HbA1c (OR 4.85, 95%CI 2.42-9.74). In persons with diagnosed diabetes: low 1,5-AG (<6 ug/mL vs ≥10 ug/mL) was also associated with a greater than 2-fold increased risk of incident chronic kidney disease (adjusted HR 2.83, 95% CI 2.15-3.74) and remained significant after adjustment for HbA1c (HR 1.43, 95%CI 1.02-2.00). Nondiabetic participants with high 1,5-AG (≥ 10 ug/mL) had the lowest prevalence of retinopathy and lowest risk of kidney disease. In persons without diagnosed diabetes at baseline, 1,5-AG <10 ug/mL was also associated with incident diabetes (adjusted HR 2.29, 95%CI 2.03-2.58). Conclusions 1,5-AG was associated with long-term risk of important microvascular outcomes, particularly in persons with diagnosed diabetes and even after adjustment for HbA1c. Our results suggest 1,5-AG may capture risk information associated with hyperglycemic excursions. PMID:25200356

Differences in sampling techniques on total post-mortem tryptase.

PubMed

Tse, R; Garland, J; Kesha, K; Elstub, H; Cala, A D; Ahn, Y; Stables, S; Palmiere, C

2018-05-01

The measurement of mast cell tryptase is commonly used to support the diagnosis of anaphylaxis. In the post-mortem setting, the literature recommends sampling from peripheral blood sources (femoral blood) but does not specify the exact sampling technique. Sampling techniques vary between pathologists, and it is unclear whether different sampling techniques have any impact on post-mortem tryptase levels. The aim of this study is to compare the difference in femoral total post-mortem tryptase levels between two sampling techniques. A 6-month retrospective study comparing femoral total post-mortem tryptase levels between (1) aspirating femoral vessels with a needle and syringe prior to evisceration and (2) femoral vein cut down during evisceration. Twenty cases were identified, with three cases excluded from analysis. There was a statistically significant difference (paired t test, p < 0.05) between mean post-mortem tryptase by aspiration (10.87 ug/L) and by cut down (14.15 ug/L). The mean difference between the two methods was 3.28 ug/L (median, 1.4 ug/L; min, - 6.1 ug/L; max, 16.5 ug/L; 95% CI, 0.001-6.564 ug/L). Femoral total post-mortem tryptase is significantly different, albeit by a small amount, between the two sampling methods. The clinical significance of this finding and what factors may contribute to it are unclear. When requesting post-mortem tryptase, the pathologist should consider documenting the exact blood collection site and method used for collection. In addition, blood samples acquired by different techniques should not be mixed together and should be analyzed separately if possible.

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

PubMed

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

2017-07-26

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

Carbonaceous and Ionic Compositions of PM2.5 Aerosols at Ieodo Ocean Research Station in the East China Sea.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, J.; Hwang, G.; Han, J.; Lee, M.; Sim, J.

2008-12-01

The aim of this study is to examine characteristic of long range transported aerosol in the East China Sea. The PM2.5 samples have been collected using RAAS 2.5-300 since June 2004 at Ieodo Ocean Research Station (IORS), which is located in the middle of China and South Korea. The number of total samples is 118 for which inorganic ions, elemental carbon (EC) and organic carbon (OC) were analyzed. Along with aerosol species, ozone and meteorological parameters were measured. From December 2004 to June 2007, The mean PM2.5 concentration was 21.2ug/m3. The average concentrations (mass fractions) of SO42- and NH4+ were 6.74ug/3(32.2%), 1.70ug/m3(14.2%), respectively. EC and OC concentrations for 1 year from June 2006 to June 2007 were 1.1ug/m3, 2.2ug/m3. Organic matter (OM=OC*1.4) and elemental carbon constituted 15.0% and 5.1% of PM2.5 mass, respectively. The average OC/EC ratio was 2.49 and there was a good correlation among EC, OC, and SO42- except for July and August : r= 0.54 (EC and SO42-, 0.45 (OC and SO42-), 0.71 (EC and OC)

[Ioduria and iodine concentration in table salt in Peruvian elementary schoolchildren].

PubMed

Tarqui-Mamani, Carolina; Alvarez-Dongo, Doris; Fernández-Tinco, Inés

2016-01-01

To determine the ioduria and iodine concentration in table salt in Peruvian elementary schoolchildren. A cross-sectional study was performed. A total of 8,023 elementary schoolchildren, who voluntarily participated, were included. Multistage stratified probability sampling was performed, and the sample was obtained by systematic selection. Ioduria was determined via spectrophotometry (Sandell-Kolthoff method), and the amount of iodine in salt was evaluated volumetrically. The data were processed by means of analysis for complex samples with a weighting factor. Medians, percentiles, and confidence intervals were calculated, and the Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis H tests were used, where appropriate. Nationwide, the median ioduria in schoolchildren was 258.53 ug/L, being higher in boys (265.90 ug/L) than in girls (250.77 ug/L). The median ioduria in urban areas was higher (289.89 ug/L) than that in rural areas (199.67 ug/L), while it was 315.48 ug/L in private schools and 241.56 ug/L in public schools (p<0.001). The median iodine concentration in table salt was 28.69 mg/kg. Of the total salt samples, 23.1% contained less than 15 mg/kg of iodine. The median ioduria in elementary schoolchildren exceeded normal levels, according to the criteria of the World Health Organization, with differences between urban and rural areas and public and private schools.

On the relationship between emotional state and abnormal unfairness sensitivity in alcohol dependence.

PubMed

Brevers, Damien; Noël, Xavier; Hanak, Catherine; Verbanck, Paul; Kornreich, Charles

2015-01-01

Recent empirical findings suggest that alcohol dependence is characterized by heightened sensitivity to unfairness during social transactions. The present study went a step further and aimed to ascertain whether this abnormal level of sensitivity to unfairness is underlined by an increased emotional reactivity. Twenty-six recently abstinent alcohol-dependent (AD) individuals and 32 controls performed an ultimatum game (UG), in which participants had to respond to take-it-or-leave-it offers, ranging from fair to unfair and made by a fictive proposer. Emotional state was recorded during UG offers presentation and was indexed by the amplitude of skin conductance response (SCR). Results showed that AD decided to reject unfair offers more frequently than their controls, confirming previous data. The proportion of rejected unfair UG offers was correlated with SCR, in the AD but not in the control group. This finding suggests that deciding to accept or reject unfair UG offers is influenced by arousal-affective activity in AD, but not in controls. Heightened emotional reactivity may have driven AD to punish the proposer rather than acting as a rational economic agent. An implication of present findings is that AD might have difficult to cope with unfair situations triggered by social interactions. Future studies are needed in order to examine whether-emotional and behavioral-reactivity to unfairness during the UG could impact alcohol consumption and relapse in AD.

High Burden of Subclinical Lead Toxicity after Phase Out of Lead from Petroleum in Pakistan.

PubMed

Majid, Hafsa; Khan, Aysha Habib; Khan, Nadeem Ullah; Siddiqui, Imran; Ghani, Farooq; Jafri, Lena

2017-12-01

To evaluate the frequency of subclinical lead toxicity. Cross-sectional study. Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, from January 2011 to December 2014. Analysis of laboratory data for blood lead levels (BLL) was performed. Lead was tested by atomic absorption spectrometer. For all subjects, only initial test results were included while the results of repeated testing were excluded. Exemption was sought from institutional ethical review committee. BLL of 2-10 ug/dl and 10-70 ug/dl in children and adults, respectively were taken as subclinical lead toxicity. Amongst the total number of subjects tested (n=524), 26.5% (n=139) were children (<16 years) while rest were adults. Overall median BLLs was 6.4 ug/dl (20.9-3.1). The median BLL was 4 ug/dl (6.7-2.6) in children and 8.3 ug/dl (27.9-3.4) in adults, respectively. The BLL increased with age; higher levels were observed in age range 21-30 years of subjects [median lead level 16.9 ug/dl (36.1-4)] and lower level [4.2 ug/dl (6.8-2.6)] in children with <10 years of age. Only 16% (n=22) children had desirable lead levels while most had either subclinical (76%, n=106) or toxic lead levels (8%, n=11). In adults, (55%, n=212) subjects had desired lead levels, and 40% (n=154) and 4.99% (n=19) had subclinical and toxic lead levels. Presence of subclinical lead poisoning even after phasing out of lead petroleum in Pakistanis is alarming, especially in children. A national population-based study to determine the lead status and targeted intervention to identify potential sources is need of the time.

Creation of second order magnetic barrier inside chaos created by NTMs in the ASDEX UG

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ali, Halima; Punjabi, Alkesh

2012-10-01

Understanding and stabilization of neoclassical tearing modes (NTM) in tokamaks is an important problem. For low temperature plasmas, tearing modes are believed to be mainly driven by current density gradient. For collisionless plasmas, even when plasma is stable to classical tearing modes, helical reduction in bootstrap current in O-point of an island can destabilize NTMs when an initial island is seeded by other global MHD instabilities or when microturbulence triggers the transition from a linear to nonlinear instability. The onset of NTMs leads to the most serious beta limit in ASDEX UG tokamak [O. Gubner et al 2005 NF 39 1321]. The important NTMs in the ASDDEX UG are (m,n)=(3,2)+(4,3)+(1,1). Realistic parameterization of these NTMs and the safety factor in ASDEX UG are given in [O. Dumbrajs et al 2005 POP 12 1107004]. We use a symplectic map in magnetic coordinates for the ASDEX UG to integrate field lines in presence of the NTMs. We add a second order control term [H. Ali and A. Punjabi 2007 PPCF 49 1565] to this ASDEX UG field line Hamiltonian to create an invariant magnetic surface inside the chaos generated by the NTMs. The relative strength, robustness, and resilience of this barrier are studied to ascertain the most desirable noble barrier in the ASDEX UG with NTMs. We present preliminary results of this work, and discuss its implications with regard to magnetic transport barriers for increasing strength of magnetic perturbations. This work is supported by the grants DE-FG02-01ER54624 and DE-FG02-04ER54793.

Effect of clothing type on validity of air-displacement plethysmography.

PubMed

King, George A; Fulkerson, Bethany; Evans, Michael J; Moreau, Kerrie L; McLaughlin, James E; Thompson, Dixie L

2006-02-01

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the validity of an air-displacement plethysmography system (AP) within the general population, while wearing (1) a racing-type swimsuit (AP(SS)) and (2) participant's personal undergarments (AP(UG)), against hydrodensitometry (HW). Fifty women and 50 men were measured for body volume, density, and fat percentage by HW and compared with AP(SS) and AP(UG). For women, AP(UG) and AP(SS) were similar, although significant differences (p < 0.001) were observed between AP(UG) and HW and between AP(SS) and HW. For men, there was no significant difference between AP(UG) and HW; however, significant differences (P < or = 0.01) were found between AP(UG) and AP(SS) and between AP(SS) and HW. The small discrepancy in measured values between AP and HW are within the measurement error for the instrumentation and these data support the use of AP for determination of body composition in adults across a wide range of body size (body mass index [BMI] 17.7-35.2 kg.m(-2)) and age (18-57 y). Participants' personal undergarments provide a practical alternative to a spandex swimsuit when measuring body composition by AP in women but not in men.

Concentrations of selected trace inorganic constituents and synthetic organic compounds in the water-table aquifers in the Memphis area, Tennessee

USGS Publications Warehouse

McMaster, B.W.; Parks, William Scott

1988-01-01

Water quality samples for analysis of selected trace inorganic constituents and synthetic organic compounds were collected from 29 private or observation wells in alluvium and fluvial deposits of Quaternary and Tertiary Age. The alluvium and fluvial deposits are the water table aquifers in the Memphis area. In addition, nine wells were installed in Memphis Light, Gas and Water Division well fields so that samples could be collected and analyzed to characterize the quality of water in the fluvial deposits at these well fields. Samples from seven of these wells (two were dry) were analyzed for major constituents and properties of water as well as for selected trace inorganic constituents and synthetic organic compounds. Analyses of the water from most of the 36 wells sampled indicated ranges in concentration values for the trace inorganic constituents that agreed with those previously known, although some new maximum values were established. The analysis of water from four wells indicated that the water is or may be contaminated. Concentrations of barium (1,400 micrograms/L -- ug/L), strontium (1,100 ug/L), and arsenic (15 ug/L), along with specific conductance (1,420 microsiemens/centimeter--us/cm) were in water from one well in the alluvium. Low concentrations (0.02 to 0.04 ug/L) of the pesticides aldrin, DDT, endosulfan, and perthane were present in water from two wells in the fluvial deposits. Water from one of these wells also contained 1,1,1 trichloroethane (4.4 ug/L). Analysis of water from another well in the fluvial deposits indicated values for specific conductance (1,100 uS/cm), alkalinity (508 milligrams per liter -- mg/L -- as CaCO3), hardness (550 mg/L as CaCO3), chloride (65 mg/L), and barium (240 ug/L) that are high for water from the fluvial deposits. (USGS)

COMPARATIVE EMBRYONIC AND LARVAL DEVELOPMENTAL RESPONSES OF AN ESTUARINE SHRIMP (PALAEMONETES PUGIO) TO THE JUVENILE HORMONE AGONIST, FENOXYCARB.

EPA Science Inventory

Grass shrimp (Palaemonetes pugio) were reared separately through both embryonic and total larval development during exposure to fenoxycarb at measured concentrations of <2.2 to 888 ug L-1. A fenoxycarb concentration of 888 ug L-1significantly (p<0.05) inhibited embryonic developm...

Burnt Sugarcane Harvesting – Cardiovascular Effects on a Group of Healthy Workers, Brazil

PubMed Central

Barbosa, Cristiane Maria Galvão; Terra-Filho, Mário; de Albuquerque, André Luis Pereira; Di Giorgi, Dante; Grupi, Cesar; Negrão, Carlos Eduardo; Rondon, Maria Urbana Pinto Brandão; Martinez, Daniel Godoy; Marcourakis, Tânia; dos Santos, Fabiana Almeida; Braga, Alfésio Luís Ferreira; Zanetta, Dirce Maria Trevisan; Santos, Ubiratan de Paula

2012-01-01

Background Brazil is the world's largest producer of sugarcane. Harvest is predominantly manual, exposing workers to health risks: intense physical exertion, heat, pollutants from sugarcane burning. Design Panel study to evaluate the effects of burnt sugarcane harvesting on blood markers and on cardiovascular system. Methods Twenty-eight healthy male workers, living in the countryside of Brazil were submitted to blood markers, blood pressure, heart rate variability, cardiopulmonary exercise testing, sympathetic nerve activity evaluation and forearm blood flow measures (venous occlusion plethysmography) during burnt sugarcane harvesting and four months later while they performed other activities in sugar cane culture. Results Mean participant age was 31±6.3 years, and had worked for 9.8±8.4 years on sugarcane work. Work during the harvest period was associated with higher serum levels of Creatine Kinase – 136.5 U/L (IQR: 108.5–216.0) vs. 104.5 U/L (IQR: 77.5–170.5), (p = 0.001); plasma Malondialdehyde–7.5±1.4 µM/dl vs. 6.9±1.0 µM/dl, (p = 0.058); Glutathione Peroxidase – 55.1±11.8 Ug/Hb vs. 39.5±9.5 Ug/Hb, (p<0.001); Glutathione Transferase– 3.4±1.3 Ug/Hb vs. 3.0±1.3 Ug/Hb, (p = 0.001); and 24-hour systolic blood pressure – 120.1±10.3 mmHg vs. 117.0±10.0 mmHg, (p = 0.034). In cardiopulmonary exercise testing, rest-to-peak diastolic blood pressure increased by 11.12 mmHg and 5.13 mmHg in the harvest and non-harvest period, respectively. A 10 miliseconds reduction in rMSSD and a 10 burst/min increase in sympathetic nerve activity were associated to 2.2 and 1.8 mmHg rises in systolic arterial pressure, respectively. Conclusion Work in burnt sugarcane harvesting was associated with changes in blood markers and higher blood pressure, which may be related to autonomic imbalance. PMID:23029413

Short-term effect of nitrogen addition on nitric oxide emissions from an alpine meadow in the Tibetan Plateau.

PubMed

Gao, Yongheng; Ma, Xingxing; Cooper, David J

2016-06-01

Little information is available on nitric oxide (NO) fluxes from alpine ecosystems. We measured NO fluxes in control and nitrogen (N) addition (NH4NO3, 6 g N m(-2) year(-1)) plots from early June through October 2013 in an alpine meadow on the Tibetan Plateau, China. During the sample period, NO fluxes varied from -0.71 to 3.12 ug m(-2) h(-1) and -0.46 to 7.54 ug m(-2) h(-1) for control and N treatment plots. The mean NO emission in N addition plots (1.68 ug m(-2) h(-1)) was 2.15 times higher than the control plots (0.78 ug m(-2) h(-1)), indicating that alpine meadows may be a source of atmospheric NO, and N additions stimulated NO flux. A positive correlation was found between NO flux and soil temperature, water-filled pore space (WFPS), nitrate (NO3 (-)-N) content but no correlation with soil ammonium (NH4 (+)-N). These results suggest that denitrification is a principal process producing NO flux from alpine meadows.

Subchronic effects of methylmercury on plasma and organ biochemistries in great egret nestlings

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hoffman, D.J.; Spalding, M.G.; Frederick, P.C.

2005-01-01

In recent years, high concentrations of mercury have been found in wading birds in Florida, USA. Great egret (Ardea alba) chicks (2 weeks old) were dosed orally daily with the equivalent of 0, 0.5, or 5 ug/g Hg as methylmercury chloride in the diet for up to 12 weeks. Weakness of the legs or paralysis occurred in all high-dosed birds. Geometric mean blood Hg concentrations were 0.17, 10.3, and 78.5 ug/g (wet wt), respectively. Mercury concentrations for organs (ug/g wet wt), including brain (0.22, 3.4, and 35, respectively), liver (0.34, 15.1, 138, respectively), and kidney (0.28, 8.1, and 120, respectively), increased in a dose-dependent manner. Total glutathione (GSH) peroxidase activity was significantly lower in the plasma, brain, liver, and kidney of the high-dosed group. Plasma aspartate aminotransferase activity increased with mercury treatment, whereas lactate dehydrogenase activity decreased. Four other plasma chemistries were decreased significantly in the high-dosed group and included uric acid, total protein, albumin, and inorganic phosphorus. Lipid peroxidation increased in liver (low and high dose) and brain (high dose). Tissue changes in concentrations of reduced thiols included decreased total thiols and protein-bound thiols in liver, decreased protein-bound thiols in kidney, and increased GSH in kidney and brain. Activities of GSH S-transferase and oxidized glutathione reductase increased in liver. In kidney, GSH S-transferase and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activities increased with mercury dose. These findings, including apparent compensatory changes, are compared to other Hg studies where oxidative stress was reported in egrets, herons, and diving ducks in the field and mallards in the laboratory.

Water Quality Conditions Monitored at the Corps’ Big Bend Project in South Dakota during the 3-Year Period 2008 through 2010

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-11-01

cyanotoxin microcystin above 1 ug/l were measured. The zooplankton community in Lake Sharpe was dominated by Cladocerans and Copepods. Water...reservoir. The phytoplankton community of Lake Sharpe was dominated by diatoms and no concentrations of the cyanotoxin microcystin above 1 ug/l

Shutting Down Sensorimotor Interferences after Stroke: A Proof-of-Principle SMR Neurofeedback Study

PubMed Central

Reichert, Johanna L.; Kober, Silvia E.; Schweiger, Daniela; Grieshofer, Peter; Neuper, Christa; Wood, Guilherme

2016-01-01

Introduction: Neurofeedback training aims at learning self-regulation of brain activity underlying cognitive, emotional or physiological functions. Despite of promising investigations on neurofeedback as a tool for cognitive rehabilitation in neurological diseases, such as after stroke, there is still a lack of research on feasibility and efficiency of neurofeedback in this field. Methods: The present study aimed at investigating behavioral and electrophysiological effects of 10 sessions of sensorimotor rhythm (SMR) neurofeedback in a 74-years-old stroke patient (UG20). Based on previous results in healthy young participants, we hypothesized that SMR neurofeedback leads to a decrease in sensorimotor interferences and improved stimulus processing, reflected by changes in event-related potentials (ERPs) and electrophysiological coherence. To assess whether UG20 benefited from the training as much as healthy persons of a similar age, a healthy control group of N = 10 elderly persons was trained as well. Before and after neurofeedback training, participants took part in a multichannel electroencephalography measurement conducted during a non-verbal and a verbal learning task. Results: Both UG20 and the healthy controls were able to regulate their SMR activity during neurofeedback training. Moreover, in a non-verbal learning task, changes in ERPs and coherence were observed after training: UG20 showed a better performance in the non-verbal learning task and a higher P3 amplitude after training than before, and coherence between central and parietal electrodes decreased after training. The control group also showed a behavioral improvement in the non-verbal learning task and tendencies for higher P3 amplitudes and decreased central-parietal coherence after training. Single-case analyses indicated that the changes observed in UG20 were not smaller than the changes in healthy controls. Conclusion: Neurofeedback can be successfully applied in a stroke patient and in healthy elderly persons. We suggest that SMR neurofeedback leads to a shutting-down of sensorimotor interferences which benefits semantic encoding and retrieval. PMID:27471456

Underrepresented Minority High School and College Students Report STEM-Pipeline Sustaining Gains After Participating in the Loma Linda University Summer Health Disparities Research Program

PubMed Central

Salto, Lorena M.; Riggs, Matt L.; Delgado De Leon, Daisy; Casiano, Carlos A.; De Leon, Marino

2014-01-01

An urgent need exists for graduate and professional schools to establish evidence-based STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) pipeline programs to increase the diversity of the biomedical workforce. An untapped yet promising pool of willing participants are capable high school students that have a strong STEM interest but may lack the skills and the guided mentoring needed to succeed in competitive STEM fields. This study evaluates and compares the impact of the Loma Linda University (LLU) Summer Health Disparities Research Program on high school (HS) and undergraduate (UG) student participants. The primary focus of our summer research experience (SRE) is to enhance the research self-efficacy of the participants by actively involving them in a research project and by providing the students with personalized mentoring and targeted career development activities, including education on health disparities. The results of our study show that our SRE influenced terminal degree intent and increased participant willingness to incorporate research into future careers for both the HS and the UG groups. The quantitative data shows that both the HS and the UG participants reported large, statistically significant gains in self-assessed research skills and research self-efficacy. Both participant groups identified the hands-on research and the mentor experience as the most valuable aspects of our SRE and reported increased science skills, increased confidence in science ability and increased motivation and affirmation to pursue a science career. The follow-up data indicates that 67% of the HS participants and 90% of the UG participants graduated from college with a STEM degree; for those who enrolled in graduate education, 61% and 43% enrolled in LLU, respectively. We conclude that structured SREs can be highly effective STEM strengthening interventions for both UG and HS students and may be a way to measurably increase institutional and biomedical workforce diversity. PMID:25250695

Underrepresented minority high school and college students report STEM-pipeline sustaining gains after participating in the Loma Linda University Summer Health Disparities Research Program.

PubMed

Salto, Lorena M; Riggs, Matt L; Delgado De Leon, Daisy; Casiano, Carlos A; De Leon, Marino

2014-01-01

An urgent need exists for graduate and professional schools to establish evidence-based STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) pipeline programs to increase the diversity of the biomedical workforce. An untapped yet promising pool of willing participants are capable high school students that have a strong STEM interest but may lack the skills and the guided mentoring needed to succeed in competitive STEM fields. This study evaluates and compares the impact of the Loma Linda University (LLU) Summer Health Disparities Research Program on high school (HS) and undergraduate (UG) student participants. The primary focus of our summer research experience (SRE) is to enhance the research self-efficacy of the participants by actively involving them in a research project and by providing the students with personalized mentoring and targeted career development activities, including education on health disparities. The results of our study show that our SRE influenced terminal degree intent and increased participant willingness to incorporate research into future careers for both the HS and the UG groups. The quantitative data shows that both the HS and the UG participants reported large, statistically significant gains in self-assessed research skills and research self-efficacy. Both participant groups identified the hands-on research and the mentor experience as the most valuable aspects of our SRE and reported increased science skills, increased confidence in science ability and increased motivation and affirmation to pursue a science career. The follow-up data indicates that 67% of the HS participants and 90% of the UG participants graduated from college with a STEM degree; for those who enrolled in graduate education, 61% and 43% enrolled in LLU, respectively. We conclude that structured SREs can be highly effective STEM strengthening interventions for both UG and HS students and may be a way to measurably increase institutional and biomedical workforce diversity.

Heavy Metals Contamination in Coastal Sediments of Karachi, Pakistan

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Siddique, A.; Mumtaz, M.; Zaigham, N. A.; Mallick, K. A.; Saied, S.; Khwaja, H. A.

2008-12-01

Toxic compounds such as heavy metals exert chronic and lethal effects in animals, plants, and human health. With the rapid industrialization, urbanization, and economic development in Karachi, heavy metals are continuing to be introduced to estuarine and coastal environment through rivers, runoff and land-based point sources. Pollution in the Karachi coastal region (167 km long) is mainly attributed to Lyari and Malir Rivers flowing through the city of Karachi. Both rivers are served by various channels of domestic and industrial wastes carrying more than 300 million gallons per day untreated effluent of 6000 industries and ultimately drain into the beaches of Arabian Sea. Concentrations of selected heavy metals (Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn) in surface sediments from eighty-eight sites in Karachi coastal region were studied in order to understand metal contamination due to industrialization, urbanization, and economic development in Karachi. Sediment samples were collected in 2005 and 2006. We have found that heavy metal concentrations in surface sediments varied from 0.006 to 24.3 ug/g for Cd, 5.1 to 95 ug/g for Co, 2.9 to 571 ug/g for Cr, 6.9 to 272 ug/g for Cu, 0.55 to 6.5% for Fe, 1.2 to 318 ug/g for Mn, 7.5 to 75 ug/g for Ni, 6.3 to 121 ug/g for Pb, and 3.3 to 389 ug/g for Zn. Enrichment factors (EFs) were calculated to assess whether the concentrations observed represent background or contaminated levels. The highest levels of metals were found to be at the confluence of the Lyari and Malir River streams at the Arabian Sea, indicating the impact of the effluents of the highly urbanized and industrialized city of Karachi. Furthermore, this study assessed heavy metal toxicity risk with the application of Sediment Quality Guideline (SQG) indices (effect range low/effect range median values, ERL/ERM). Results indicated that the potential toxicity of marine environment can cause adverse biological effects to the biota directly and the human health indirectly through food web chain.

List of Participants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

2011-08-01

Abigail Alvarez OlarteCINVESTAV Alba Leticia Carrillo MonteverdeDCI-UG Alberto CarramiñanaINAOE Aldo MorselliFERMI Alejandro CastillaDCI-UG Alejandro IbarraTechnical University of Munich Alma D Rojas PachecoFCFM-BUAP Alma Xochitl Gonzalez MoralesInstituto de Ciencias Nucleares, UNAM Andrew Walcott BeckwithAmerican Institute of Beam Energy Physics Ariadna Montiel ArenasDepartamento de Física, CINVESTAV Arnulfo ZepedaCinvestav Arturo Alvarez CruzInstituto de Fisica, UNAM Axel de la MacorraUNAM, IAC Azar MustafayevUniversity of Minnesota Benjamin JaramilloDCI-UG Vincent BertinCPPM-Marseille Carlos Alberto Vaquera-AraujoDCI-UG Carlos MuñozMadrid Autonoma U. & Madrid, IFT Carmine PagliaroneINFN, FNAL Carolina Lujan PeschardDCI-UG Christiane Frigerio MartinsUniversidade Federal do ABC-São Paulo Csaba BalazsMonash University David DelepineDCI-UG David G CerdenoUniversidad Autonoma de Madrid & Instituto de Fisica Teorica Debasish MajumdarSaha Institute of Nuclear Physics, Kolkata, India Dibyendu PanigrahiKandi Raj College, Kandi, Murshidabad, INDIA-742137 Dupret Alberto Santana BejaranoUniversidad de Sonora Departamento de Investigacion en Fisica Ernest MaRiverside U.C. Esteban Alejandro Reyes Pírez MontañezInstituto de Física, UNAM Federico Ortiz TrejoINSTITUTO DE ASTRONOMÍA - UNAM Francisco José de Anda NavarroUniversidad de Guadalajara González Alvarez Francisco JavierCINVESTAV-Depto. Física Gustavo Medina TancoICN-UNAM Hernando Efrain Caicedo OrtizInstituto Politecnico Nacional - IPN J D VergadosCERN & Ioannina U. James R BoyceJefferson Lab Jason SteffenFERMILAB Javier Montaño DomínguezDCI-UG Jeevan SolankiMandsaur Institue of Technology MP India Joe SatoSaitama University Jorge Luis Navarro EstradaUNAM-ICN and Universidad del Atlantico (B/quilla-Col.) Jose A R CembranosUniversity of Minnesota José DíazIFIC Jose Didino Garcia AguilarDepto. de Fisica. Cinvestav Keith OliveUniversity of Minnesota Konstantia BalasiUniversity of Ioannina, Greece Lilian Prado GonzalezBUAP, FCFM Lorenzo Díaz CruzBUAP Facultad de Ciencias Físico Matemáticas Luis Rey Díaz BarrónDivisión de Ciencias e Ingenierías Luis UrenaUniversidad de Guanajuato Magda LolaDept. of Physics, University of Patras, Greece Mahmoud WahbaEgyptian Center for Theoretical Physics, MTI Marcus S CohenNew Mexico State University Mario A Acero OrtegaICN - UNAM Mario E GomezUniversidad de Huelva Mark PipeUniversity of Sheffield Mauro NapsucialeDCI-UG Mirco CannoniUniversidad de Huelva Mónica Felipa Ramírez PalaciosUniversidad de Guadalajara Murli Manohar VermaLucknow university, India Nassim BozorgniaUCLA Octavio Obregón Octavio ValenzuelaIA-UNAM Oleg KamaevUniversity of Minnesota Osamu SetoHokkai-Gakuen University Pedro F González DíazIFF, CSIC, Serrano 121, 28006 Madrid, Spain Qaisar ShafiBartol Research Inst. and Delaware U. Raul Hennings-YeomansLos Alamos National Laboratory René Ángeles MartínezDepartamento de Fisica, del DCI de la Universidad de Guanajuato Reyna XoxocotziBUAP, FCFM Rishi Kumar TiwariGovt. Model Science College, Rewa (MP) INDIA Roberto A SussmanICN-UNAM Selim Gómez ÁvilaDCI-UG Sugai KenichiSaitama University Susana Valdez AlvaradoDCI-UG TVladimir - 2K CollaborationColorado State University Tonatiuh MatosCINVESTAV Valeriy DvoeglazovUniversidad de Zacatecas Vannia Gonzalez MaciasDCI-UG Vladimir Avila-ReeseInstituto de Astronomia, UNAM Wolfgang BietenholzINC, UNAM (Mexico) Yamanaka MasatoKyoto Sangyo University Yann MambriniLPT Orsay Yu-Feng ZhouInstitute of Theotretical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, PR China Aaron HigueraDCI-UG Azarael Yebra PérezDCI-UG César Hernández AguayoDCI-UG Jaime Chagoya AlvarezDCI-UG Jonathan Rashid Rosique CampuzanoDCI-UG José Alfredo Soto ÁlvarezDCI-UG Juan Carlos De Haro SantosDCI-UG Luis Eduardo Medina MedranoDCI-UG Maria Fatima Rubio EspinozaDCI-UG Paulo Alberto Rodriguez HerreraDCI-UG Roberto Oziel Gutierrez CotaDCI-UG Rocha Moran Maria PaulinaDCI-UG Xareni Sanchez MonroyDCI-UG

Silver Hazards to Fish, Wildlife, and Invertebrates: A Synoptic Review

USGS Publications Warehouse

Eisler, R.

1996-01-01

Ecological and toxicological aspects of silver (Ag) in the environment are briefly summarized with an emphasis on natural resources. Elevated silver concentrations in biota occur in the vicinities of sewage outfalls, electroplating plants, mine waste sites, and silver-iodide seeded areas; in the United States, the photography industry is the major source of anthropogenic silver discharges into the biosphere. Silver and its compounds are not known to be mutagenic, teratogenic, or carcinogenic. Under normal routes of exposure, silver does not pose serious environmental health problems to humans at less than 50.0 ug total Ag/L drinking water or 10.0 ug per cubic meter air. Free silver ion, however, was lethal to representative species of sensitive aquatic plants, invertebrates, and teleosts at nominal water concentrations of 1.2 to 4.9 ug/L; sublethal effects were significant between 0.17 and 0.6 ug/L. Silver was harmful to poultry at concentrations as low as 1.8 mg total Ag/kg whole egg fresh weight by way of injection, 100.0 mg total Ag/L in drinking water, or 200.0 mg total Ag/kg in diets; sensitive mammals were adversely affected at total silver concentrations as low as 250.0 ug/L in drinking water, 6.0 mg/kg in diets, or 13.9 mg/kg whole body.

Mapping resistance to the Ug99 race group of the stem rust pathogen in a spring wheat landrace

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Wheat landrace PI 374670 has seedling and field resistance to stem rust caused by Puccinia graminis f. sp tritici Eriks. & E. Henn (Pgt) race TTKSK. To elucidate the inheritance of resistance, 216 BC1F2 families, 192 double haploid (DH) lines, and 185 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) were developed b...

Concurrent validity and reliability of the Simple Goniometer iPhone app compared with the Universal Goniometer.

PubMed

Jones, Anne; Sealey, Rebecca; Crowe, Michael; Gordon, Susan

2014-10-01

The aim of this study was to assess the concurrent validity and reliability of the Simple Goniometer (SG) iPhone® app compared to the Universal Goniometer (UG). Within subject comparison design comparing the UG with the SG app. James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia. Thirty-six volunteer participants, with a mean age of 60.6 years (SD 6.2). Not applicable. Thirty-six participants performed three standing lunges during which the knee joint angle was measured with the SG app and the UG. There were no significant differences in the measures of individual knee joint angles between the UG and the SG app. Pearson correlations of 0.96-0.98 and intraclass correlation coefficients of 0.97-0.99 (95% confidence interval: 0.95-1.00) were recorded for all measures. Using the Bland-Altman method, the standard error of the mean of the differences and the standard deviation of the mean of the differences were low. The measurements from the SG iPhone® app were reliable and possessed concurrent validity for this sample and protocol when compared to the UG.

Lipid peroxidation and antioxidant status in colorectal cancer

PubMed Central

Skrzydlewska, Elzbieta; Sulkowski, Stanislaw; Koda, Mariusz; Zalewski, Bogdan; Kanczuga-Koda, Luiza; Sulkowska, Mariola

2005-01-01

AIM: Reactive oxygen species (ROS) can induce carcinogenesis via DNA injury. Both enzymatic and non-enzymatic parameters participate in cell protection against harmful influence of oxidative stress. The aim of the present study was to assess the levels of final lipid peroxidation products like malondialdehyde (MDA) and 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-HNE) in primary colorectal cancer. Moreover, we analysed the activity of main antioxidative enzymes, superoxide dismutase (Cu, Zn-SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and glutathione reductase (GSSRG-R) and the level of non-enzymatic antioxidants (glutathione, vitamins C and E). METHODS: Investigations were conducted in 81 primary colorectal cancers. As a control, the same amount of sample was collected from macroscopically unchanged colon regions of the most distant location to the cancer. Homogenisation of specimens provided 10% homogenates for our evaluations. Activity of antioxidant enzymes and level of glutathione were determined by spectrophotometry. HPLC revealed levels of vitamins C and E and served as a method to detect terminal products of lipid peroxidation in colorectal cancer. RESULTS: Our studies demonstrated a statistically significant increase in the level of lipid peroxidation products (MDA-Adc.muc.-2.65±0.48 nmol/g, Adc.G3-2.15±0.44 nmol/g, clinical IV stage 4.04±0.47 nmol/g, P<0.001 and 4-HNE-Adc.muc. -0.44±0.07 nmol/g, Adc.G3-0.44±0.10 nmol/g, clinical IV stage 0.52±0.11 nmol/g, P<0.001) as well as increase of Cu,Zn-SOD (Adc.muc.-363±72 U/g, Adc.G3-318±48 U/g, clinical IV stage 421±58 U/g, P<0.001), GSH-Px (Adc.muc. -2143±623 U/g, Adc.G3-2005±591 U/g, clinical IV stage 2467±368 U/g, P<0.001) and GSSG-R (Adc.muc.-880±194 U/g, Adc.G3-795±228 U/g, clinical IV stage 951±243 U/g, P<0.001) in primary tumour comparison with normal colon (MDA-1.39±0.15 nmol/g, HNE-0.29±0.03 nmol/g, Cu, Zn-SOD-117±25 U/g, GSH-Px-1723±189 U/g, GSSG-R-625±112 U/g) especially in mucinous and G3-grade adenocarcinomas as well as clinical IV stage of colorectal cancer. We also observed a decrease of CAT activity (Adc.muc. -40±14 U/g, clinical IV stage 33±18 U/g vs 84±17 U/g, P<0.001) as well as a decreased level of reduced glutathione (clinical IV stage 150±48 nmol/g vs 167±15 nmol/g, P<0.05) and vitamins C and E (vit. C-clinical IV stage 325±92 nmol/g vs 513±64 nmol/g, P<0.001; vit. E-clinical IV stage 13.3±10.3 nmol/g vs 37.5±5.2 nmol/g). CONCLUSION: Colorectal carcinogenesis is associated with serious oxidative stress and confirms that gradual advancement of oxidative-antioxidative disorders is followed by progression of colorectal cancer. PMID:15637754

Consequences of an Immense Hadean-Archean Heat Flux that Results from Virial Theorem Constraints on the Earth's Initial Axial Spin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hofmeister, A. M.; Criss, R. E.

2016-12-01

Early Earth conditions were largely erased, but the powerful Virial Theorem (VT) constrains Earth's post-accretion state, which largely dictates subsequent thermal and dynamical evolution. Proposals of huge initial inventories of primordial heat are based on Kelvin's disproven theory of starlight. Rather, the VT requires that gravitational potential of the Solar nebula was converted to rotational energy in a conservative, bound accretionary system, which is confirmed by planetary orbit characteristics. In addition, the VT relates axial spin to gravitational self-potential (Ug,self) of each body [2016 Can. J. Phys. p. 380]. From the VT, ½Ug,self binds the body and is unavailable, but spin energy (SE), also equal to ½Ug,self, degrades while gradually evolving heat via friction. The VT likewise restricts primordial heat of core formation, and is consistent with entropy reduction due to ordering and volume restriction [2015 J. Earth Sci., p. 124]. High initial Virial spin is confirmed by (1) data on young stars, (2) independent projections of Earth's initial spin as 2-17 hrs (from fossils and the current rate of spin loss: Lathe 2006), and (3) current SE for all planets defining a power-law trend with Ug,self, which further requires a universal cause for spin loss [2012 Planet. Space Sci. p. 111]. Spin loss is caused by tidal friction and differential rotation of layers. Dissipation is concentrated in the upper layers and especially in the brittle zone, which are much weaker than the highly compressed, essentially hydrostatic interior. With friction, neither mechanical energy nor angular momentum are conserved. Earth's frictional dissipation is immense. Uniform release over time would provide 300-700 TW. This source dominated heat generation for 2 Ga, whereas radiogenic heat dominates today. Exponential spin down suggests 100x more heat production during the Hadean than now, which obliterated early rocks while promoting outgassing and differentiation. Reduction to 10x present levels in the Archean permitted formation of a thin lithosphere and stabilized an ocean and atmosphere. Frictional heat from spin loss helps explain why oceanic heat flux today resembles that of continents which store all the chondritic U and Th. Topside frictional and radiogenic heat production prohibits lower mantle convection.

Wastewater/Storm Water Characterization and Toxicity Identification Evaluation, Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-12-01

support the NPDES permit renewal appl ication. the studies should collect sufficient data to characterize waste streams, including wastewater and WINTP...26Apr 1 30Apr I 1May I 2May Arsenic I uiI ᝺ ᝺i ᝺  ᝺! ᝺ Barium I ug l I i  . 4001 SWot 1000 " 2600 Beryllium J ug 1 ᝺ <o 0 <o

Water quality of surficial aquifers in the Georgia-Florida Coastal Plain

USGS Publications Warehouse

Crandall, C.A.; Berndt, M.P.

1996-01-01

The National Water Quality Assessment Program of the U.S. Geological Survey established the Georgia-Florida Coastal Plain study unit in 1991. The ground-water study-unit survey was conducted in 1993 to provide a broad over-view of water quality in surficial aquifers. Three land resource provinces were included in the Georgia-Florida Coastal Plain study-unit survey: the Central Florida Ridge, the Coastal Flatwoods, and the Southern Coastal Plain. The U.S. Geological Survey sampled 37 wells in surficial aquifers, 18 in the Coastal Flatwoods and 19 in the Southern Coastal Plain. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection sampled 27 wells tapping surficial aquifers in the Central Florida Ridge as part of the background ground-water quality monitoring network from 1985 through 1989. The data were used to characterize water quality in surficial aquifers of the Central Florida Ridge. Results of the study-unit survey indicated that dissolved solids concentrations in ground water were mostly less than 100 mg/L (milligrams per liter). Higher medians of pH, specific conductance, and concentrations of calcium, bicarbonate, and dissolved solids were measured in samples from the Central Florida Ridge compared to the Southern Coastal Plain and Coastal Flatwoods, probably because of a greater percentage of carbonate minerals in aquifer materials. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency secondary maximum contaminant level for iron of 300 ug/L (micrograms per liter) in drinking water was exceeded in 15 of 45 samples. Concentrations of nitrate as nitrogen were less than 3.0 mg/L in most samples (74 percent), indicating little or no influence from human activity. Only five samples (9 percent) had concentrations above 10 mg/L, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency maximum contaminant level for nitrate concentration in drinking water. Significantly lower median concentrations of nitrate were measured in samples from polyvinyl chloride monitoring wells with diameters less than 6 inches than in large diameter, uncased, or iron-cased wells. The median nitrate concentration was 0.05 mg/L in water from monitoring wells, 1.0 mg/L in samples from iron cased wells, and 2.0 mg/L in samples from uncased wells. Concentrations of volatile organic compounds were mostly less than the detection levels and exceeded 1 ug/L in only four samples. Compounds detected at concentrations greater than 1 ug/L were: tetrachloroethane (8.77 ug/L), toluene (23 ug/L) and chloromethane (21 ug/L). Atrazine, desethyl-atrazine, and metolachlor were the only pesticides detected; concentrations were less than 0.02 ug/L, except for metolachlor (2.5 ug/L). Detection of organic compounds in surficial aquifer may be associated with specific activities or sources near the well. Concentrations of radon exceeded the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency proposed maximum contaminant level of 300 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) in 33 samples from wells on the Coastal Flatwoods and the Southern Coastal Plain. Concentrations as high as 13,000 pCi/L were detected in northern Florida. Although uranium concentrations were less than 1 ug/L in all but one sample (1.3 ug/L) from the Southern Coastal Plain, elevated radon concentrations indicate that uranium is present in aquifer material. Uranium is most likely sorbed to iron oxides and clays in subsurface materials. Tritium concentrations indicated that ground water was recharged by precipitation during the past 40 years. Higher concentrations of tritium in ground water were found in the northern part of the study area and may be related to Savannah River Nuclear Facility.

Labor Resource Audit and Analysis: A Tool for Management Planning and Control

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-06-01

RM(onn17 COSA~ CODES B 5OBJECT TERMS (Continge pn rev@rj !~cea and f, entfa y.block R V FIELD GROUP SUB-GROUP re-; P anning; labor; ugLr og; a e...David 1 hplr., chairman Department of Admi srtv Sine KnealeT-Mg;fi Dea ofInformation and-ln sine ii ABSTRACT This study was conducted in an effort to...Audit ---------------------------------- 84 viii ACKNOWLEDGMENTS A wide variety of authorities in their field have contributed material to this study. I

EFFECTS OF 2,3,7,8-TETRACHLORODIBENZO-P-DIOXIN ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

While the effect that TCDD has on humoral immunity in the mouse has been well documented, it has not been for the rat. n this study, the effect that TCDD has on the antibody plaque-forming cell (PFC) response to sheep red blood cells (SRBC) in adult female B6C3F1 mice and F344 rats was compared. ice or rats were given a single intraperitoneal injection of TCDD at doses ranging from 0.1 to 30 ug/kg, 7 days prior to intravenous immunization with SRBC. our days later the PFC response to SRBC was determined. ice showed a dose related suppression of the PFC response, with an ED50 of 0.71 ug/kg TCDD. n contrast, TCDD failed to suppress and in fact enhanced the PFC response to SRBC in rats at doses as high as 30 ug/kg. he inability of TCDD to suppress the PFC response in rats was unrelated to hepatic CYP1A1 and CYP1A2 induction which was detectable at doses of 1 and 0.3 ug/kg TCDD, respectively. here was no shift in the time to peak PFC response in rats dosed with TCDD, nor was the failure of TCDD to suppress the PFC response in rats related to gender or strain. henotypic analysis of thymocytes and splenic lymphocytes from TCDD-dosed (i.e., 3, 10 or 30 ug/kg) and SREC-immunized mice and rats revealed that CD4-CD8+ splenocytes were reduced in a dose related manner in rats only and that this reduction in CD4-CD8+ was accompanied by a dose related increase in IgM+ splenocytes. hese results demonstrate species differences in the effect of TCDD on the PFC response to SRBC w

Hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects of Saururus chinensis Baill in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.

PubMed

Hwang, Ji-Yeon; Zhang, Jian; Kang, Min-Jung; Lee, Soo-Kyung; Kim, Hyun-A; Kim, Jong-Jin; Kim, Jung-In

2007-01-01

Saururus chinensis Baill was reported to inhibit alpha-glucosidase in vitro and flatten postprandial increase in blood glucose in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. We studied the effect of chronic consumption of S. chinensis Baill on blood glucose and lipid profile in STZ-induced diabetic male rats fed high fat diet. Male rats weighing 100-120 g were fed 30% fat diet with and without 10% freeze-dried leaves of S. chinensis Baill for 7 weeks after 1 week of adaptation. The rats were rendered diabetic by intravenous injection of STZ (60 mg/kg) after 6-week feeding of the assigned diets. At 1 week after the injection, the rats were sacrificed after an overnight fast. Plasma glucose (380.2 +/- 14.4 mg/dL), total cholesterol (93.9 +/- 7.9 mg/dL) and triglyceride levels (123.6 +/- 7.5 mg/dL) of the S. chinensis Baill group were significantly lower than those of the control group (418.1 +/- 12.0 mg/dL, 119.9 +/- 9.4 mg/dL, 152.0 +/- 10.3 mg/dL, respectively, p<0.05). Chronic consumption of S. chinesis Baill significantly decreased maltase activity of the small intestinal mucosa (120.1 +/- 8.7 U/g protein) compared with the control group (96.8 +/- 7.0 U/g protein, p<0.05). These results suggest that S. chinensis Baill have hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects by inhibiting alpha-glucosidase activity in the animal model of diabetes mellitus.

Antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of Klebsiella species from Ebonyi State University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, Nigeria.

PubMed

Akujobi, C N

2005-12-01

Klesiella specie isolated from clinical specimens from Ebonyi State University Teaching Hospital (EBSUTH). Abakakliki were studied to determine the antimicrobial susceptibility pattern. Between January, 2003 and September 2004 a total of 3.600 specimens processed in the routine Medical Microbiology laboratory of EBSUTH, of which 245(6.8%) yielded Klebsiella species, with 84 from out - patients and 161 from in - patients. The number of isolates from various samples were: Urine 126, Sputum 37 Endocervical swab 13, Aspirates 8, High Vaginal Swab 7, Blood 3, Eye Swab, Ear Swab and Cerebrospinal fluid were 2 samples each. Organisms were identified by conventional methods. Antimicrobial susceptibility was done by the disk diffusion methods. The antimicrobial disk used include: Ceftazidime, Cefuroxime, Cefotaxine, Augmentin, Pefloxacin (30ug), Doxycyline (25ug) Genticin (10 ug) Ciprofloacin and Ofloxacin (5ug) each and Erythromycin (15ug). All were Oxoid products. Results were interpreted according to NCCLS criteria. Klebsilla species were isolated mostly from urine specimens (51.4%) followed by wound swabs (18.4%). Antimicrobial susceptibility to various groups drugs used was generally poor. The most sensitive antimicrobial was Ciprofloxacin with 121(49.4%) isolates susceptible to it, followed by Gentamicin with 95 (38.8%) and Ceftazidime with 90(36.7%). Seventeen isolates were multiresistant to all the antimicrobial agents used. The result of this study will help in the empiric therapy of infection caused by Klebsiella species in Ebonyi State University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, Nigeria but continuous surverillance of antimicrobial resistance of the organnisn is very necessary in the formulation of a sound antibiotic policy in the hospital.

Sierra Army Depot, Phase 1, Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study, Lassen County, California. Final Remedial Investigation

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-10-01

8.3.1.2 Cadmium ............................ 8-8 8.3.1.3 Lead .... ............................ 8-8 8.3.1.4 Zinc .... ............................ 8-8...Beryllium, Cadmium , Chromium, Cobalt, Copper, Fluoride Salts, Lead, Mercury, Molydenum, Nickel, Selenium, Silver, Thallium, Vanadium, Zinc . I ~ 2 ,4... cadmium (4.070 ;&g/L), copper (20.100 ug/L), and zinc (28.700 ug/L). Round 2 background 3 groundwater results include arsenic (7.700 g/L), barium

Maternal obesity programs mitochondrial and lipid metabolism gene expression in infant umbilical vein endothelial cells

PubMed Central

Ramos Costa, Suzana Maria; Isganaitis, Elvira; Matthews, Tucker; Hughes, Katelyn; Daher, Grace; Dreyfuss, Jonathan M.; Pontes da Silva, Giselia Alves; Patti, Mary-Elizabeth

2016-01-01

Background/Objectives Maternal obesity increases risk for childhood obesity, but molecular mechanisms are not well understood. We hypothesized that primary umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) from infants of overweight and obese mothers would harbor transcriptional patterns reflecting offspring obesity risk. Subjects/Methods In this observational cohort study, we recruited 13 lean (pre-pregnancy BMI <25.0 kg/m2) and 24 overweight-obese (‘ov-ob’, BMI ≥25.0 kg/m2) women. We isolated primary HUVEC, and analyzed both gene expression (Primeview, Affymetrix) and cord blood levels of hormones and adipokines. Results 142 transcripts were differentially expressed in HUVEC from infants of overweight-obese mothers (false discovery rate, FDR <0.05). Pathway analysis revealed that genes involved in mitochondrial and lipid metabolism were negatively correlated with maternal BMI (FDR <0.05). To test whether these transcriptomic patterns were associated with distinct nutrient exposures in the setting of maternal obesity, we analyzed the cord blood lipidome and noted significant increases in levels of total free fatty acids (lean: 95.5 ± 37.1 ug/ml, ov-ob: 124.1 ± 46.0 ug/ml, P=0.049), palmitate (lean: 34.5 ± 12.7 ug/ml, ov-ob: 46.3 ± 18.4 ug/ml, P=0.03) and stearate (lean: 20.8 ± 8.2 ug/ml, ov-ob: 29.7 ± 17.2 ug/ml, P=0.04), in infants of overweight-obese mothers. Conclusion Prenatal exposure to maternal obesity alters HUVEC expression of genes involved in mitochondrial and lipid metabolism, potentially reflecting developmentally-programmed differences in oxidative and lipid metabolism. PMID:27531045

[Survey of sexually transmitted diseases in the region of Rio Cuarto].

PubMed

Barberis, I L; Pájaro, M C; Godino, S; Pascual, L; Rodríguez, I; Agüero, M; Ordóñez, C

1998-01-01

Sexually transmitted diseases (STD) are acquired mainly through sexual intercourse, being one of the most frequent groups of infectious diseases worldwide and consequently an important public health problem. The aim of this paper was to determine the current state of STD and to compare different diagnostic methods in the population studied. A total of 1060 samples from vaginal flows, endocervical material and urethral discharge were studied during 3 years. Of the total samples, 583 were positive, 493 in women and 90 in men. Microorganisms found in women were: Gardnerella vaginalis (39.3%), Candida albicans (21.1%), Trichomonas vaginalis (17.3%), Candida trachomatis (11.3%), Neisseria gonorrhoeae (3.2%): Mycoplasma hominis and Ureaplasma urelyticum (6.5%) and Treponema pallidum (1.4%), the associations found were, Gardnerella vaginalis with Trichomonas vaginalis 5.5%; Gardnerella vaginalis with Candida albicans 4.9%; Trichomonas vaginalis with Neisseria gonorrhoeae (2.2%) and Gardnerella vaginalis with Chlamydia trachomatis (1.9%). In men, gonococcal urethritis (UG) represented 37.7% non UG 55.6% and Treponema pallidum 6.7%. These results indicate a decrease in sifilis and in UG when compared to previous studies showing that gonococcal cervicitis had also decreased. We found an important increase in the prevalence of urethritis and non gonococcal cervicitis in agreement with world statistics which consider these diseases as the most common venereal ones. It is necessary to increase the search for Chlamydia trachomatis in pregnant women due to vertical transmission. It should be noted that, in spite of certain fluctuations, the incidence of the STD in our area is still unacceptably high.

Effectiveness of adding voluntary pelvic floor muscle contraction to a Pilates exercise program: an assessor-masked randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Torelli, Luiza; de Jarmy Di Bella, Zsuzsanna Ilona Katalin; Rodrigues, Claudinei Alves; Stüpp, Liliana; Girão, Manoel João Batista Castello; Sartori, Marair Gracio Ferreira

2016-11-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of adding voluntary pelvic floor muscle contraction (PFMC) to a Pilates exercise program in sedentary nulliparous women. Fifty-seven healthy nulliparous and physically inactive women were randomized to a Pilates exercise program (PEP) with or without PFMC. Forty-eight women concluded this study (24 participants for each group). Each woman was evaluated before and after the PEP, by a physiotherapist and an urogynecologist (UG). Neither of the professionals was revealed to them. This physiotherapist measured their pelvic floor muscle strength by using both a perineometer (Peritron) and vaginal palpation (Oxford Scale). The UG, who performed 3D perineal ultrasound examinations, collected their data and evaluated the results for pubovisceral muscle thickness and the levator hiatus area (LA). Both professionals were blinded to the group allocation. The protocol for both groups consisted of 24 bi-weekly 1-h individual sessions of Pilates exercises, developed by another physiotherapist who specializes in PFM rehabilitation and the Pilates technique. The PEP+ PFMC group showed significantly greater strength improvements than the PEP group when comparing the Oxford scale, vaginal pressure and pubovisceral muscle thickness during contraction measurements at baseline and post-treatment. Our findings suggest that adding a voluntary PFMC to a Pilates exercise program is more effective than Pilates alone in improving PFM strength in sedentary nulliparous women.

Impact of Extraction Parameters on the Recovery of Lipolytic Activity from Fermented Babassu Cake

PubMed Central

Silva, Jaqueline N.; Godoy, Mateus G.; Gutarra, Melissa L. E.; Freire, Denise M. G.

2014-01-01

Enzyme extraction from solid matrix is as important step in solid-state fermentation to obtain soluble enzymes for further immobilization and application in biocatalysis. A method for the recovery of a pool of lipases from Penicillium simplicissimum produced by solid-state fermentation was developed. For lipase recovery different extraction solution was used and phosphate buffer containing Tween 80 and NaCl showed the best results, yielding lipase activity of 85.7 U/g and 65.7 U/g, respectively. The parameters with great impacts on enzyme extraction detected by the Plackett-Burman analysis were studied by Central Composite Rotatable experimental designs where a quadratic model was built showing maximum predicted lipase activity (160 U/g) at 25°C, Tween 80 0.5% (w/v), pH 8.0 and extraction solution 7 mL/g, maintaining constant buffer molarity of 0.1 M and 200 rpm. After the optimization process a 2.5 fold increase in lipase activity in the crude extract was obtained, comparing the intial value (64 U/g) with the experimental design (160 U/g), thus improving the overall productivity of the process. PMID:25090644

Cloning the uteroglobin gene promoter from the relic volcano rabbit (Romerolagus diazi) reveals an ancient estrogen-response element.

PubMed

Acosta-MontesdeOca, Adriana; Zariñán, Teresa; Macías, Héctor; Pérez-Solís, Marco A; Ulloa-Aguirre, Alfredo; Gutiérrez-Sagal, Rubén

2012-05-01

To gain further insight on the estrogen-dependent transcriptional regulation of the uteroglobin (UG) gene, we cloned the 5'-flanking region of the UG gene from the phylogenetically ancient volcano rabbit (Romerolagus diazi; Rd). The cloned region spans 812 base pairs (bp; -812/-1) and contains a noncanonical TATA box (TACA). The translation start site is 48 bp downstream from the putative transcription initiation site (AGA), and is preceded by a consensus Kozak box. Comparison of the Rd-UG gene with that previously isolated from rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) showed 93% in sequence identity as well as a number of conserved cis-acting elements, including the estrogen-response element (ERE; -265/-251), which differs from the consensus by two nucleotides. In MCF-7 cells, 17β-estradiol (E(2)) induced transcription of a luciferase reporter driven by the Rd-UG promoter in a similar manner as in an equivalent rabbit UG reporter; the Rd-UG promoter was 30% more responsive to E(2) than the rabbit promoter. Mutagenesis studies on the Rd-ERE confirmed this cis-element as a target of E(2) as two luciferase mutant reporters of the Rd-promoter, one with the rabbit and the other with the consensus ERE, were more responsive to the hormone than the wild-type reporter. Gel shift and super-shift assays showed that estrogen receptor-α indeed binds to the imperfect palindromic sequence of the Rd-ERE. Copyright © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Value of cytopathologist-performed ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration as a screening test for ultrasound-guided core-needle biopsy in nonpalpable breast masses.

PubMed

Lieu, David

2009-04-01

Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) of breast masses in the United States has been on the decline for the last decade and has been largely replaced by ultrasound-guided core-needle biopsy (UG-CNB). Some studies show core-needle biopsy (CNB) is superior to FNA in terms of absolute sensitivity, specificity, and inadequate rate. However, the importance of a skilled aspirator, experienced cytopathologist, and immediate cytological evaluation (ICE) in FNA is often not considered. CNB is more expensive, invasive, risky, and painful than FNA. This prospective study examines the value of cytopathologist-performed ultrasound-guided FNA (UG-FNA) with ICE as a screening test for cytopathologist-performed UG-CNB on nonpalpable or difficult-to-palpate solid breast masses visible on ultrasound. One hundred twenty consecutive nonpalpable or difficult-to-palpate presumably solid breast masses in 109 female patients from January2, 2008 to June 30, 2008 underwent cytopathologist-performed UG-FNA with ICE. Twenty cases were converted to cytopathologist-performed UG-CNB because ICE was inadequate, hypocellular, atypical, suspicious, or malignant. Patients with clearly benign cytology did not undergo UG-CNB. UG-FNA with ICE reduced the percentage of patients undergoing UG-CNB by 87%. A new role for cytopathologist-performed UG-FNA of nonpalpable breast masses has been identified.

The Ex-PRESS Glaucoma Filtration Device Implantation in Uveitic Glaucoma.

PubMed

Dhanireddy, Swetha; Kombo, Ninani C; Payal, Abhishek R; Freitas-Neto, Clovis Arcoverde; Preble, Janine; Foster, C Stephen

2017-12-01

To evaluate the outcomes of the Ex-PRESS Filtration Device in patients with uveitic glaucoma. We reviewed 23 eyes, comparing control simple glaucoma patients (n = 11) to uveitic glaucoma patients (n = 12). Intraocular pressure (IOP) and glaucoma medications at the preoperative examination were compared with those at the 6-month and 10-14-month postoperative examination. Surgical success was defined as ≥25% decrease in intraocular pressure without hypotony, and/or decrease in glaucoma medications at 6 months follow-up. Statistically significant reduction in mean IOP from preoperative levels occurred in both groups at 6 months follow-up (p<0.0001) and 10-14 months follow-up (p = 0.0007) and in the mean number of medications in the uveitic glaucoma (UG) group (p = 0.0313). Surgical success was seen in 10 eyes in the control group (90.9%) and nine eyes (75%) in the UG group (p = 0.314). Ex-PRESS implantation is an effective surgical intervention for the management of uveitic glaucoma.

46 CFR 54.01-30 - Loadings (modifies UG-22).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Loadings (modifies UG-22). 54.01-30 Section 54.01-30 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS General Requirements § 54.01-30 Loadings (modifies UG-22). (a) The loadings for pressure vessels shall be as required by UG-22 of section VIII of the...

46 CFR 54.01-30 - Loadings (modifies UG-22).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Loadings (modifies UG-22). 54.01-30 Section 54.01-30 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS General Requirements § 54.01-30 Loadings (modifies UG-22). (a) The loadings for pressure vessels shall be as required by UG-22 of section VIII of the...

46 CFR 54.01-30 - Loadings (modifies UG-22).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Loadings (modifies UG-22). 54.01-30 Section 54.01-30 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS General Requirements § 54.01-30 Loadings (modifies UG-22). (a) The loadings for pressure vessels shall be as required by UG-22 of section VIII of the...

46 CFR 54.01-30 - Loadings (modifies UG-22).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Loadings (modifies UG-22). 54.01-30 Section 54.01-30 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS General Requirements § 54.01-30 Loadings (modifies UG-22). (a) The loadings for pressure vessels shall be as required by UG-22 of section VIII of the...

46 CFR 54.01-30 - Loadings (modifies UG-22).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Loadings (modifies UG-22). 54.01-30 Section 54.01-30 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS General Requirements § 54.01-30 Loadings (modifies UG-22). (a) The loadings for pressure vessels shall be as required by UG-22 of section VIII of the...

Serum and CSF adiponectin, leptin, and interleukin 6 levels as adipocytokines in Egyptian children with febrile seizures: a cross-sectional study.

PubMed

Azab, Seham F; Abdalhady, Mohamed A; Almalky, Mohamed A A; Amin, Ezzat K; Sarhan, Dina T; Elhindawy, Eman M; Allah, Mayy A N; Elhewala, Ahmed A; Salam, Mohamed M A; Hashem, Mustafa I A; Soliman, Attia A; Akeel, Nagwa E; Abdellatif, Sawsan H; Elsamad, Nahla A; Rass, Anwar A; Arafat, Manal S

2016-04-12

A febrile seizure (FS) is the most common convulsive disorder in children. Activation of cytokine network is involved in FS pathogenesis. Adiponectin, leptin and IL-6 are the major adipocytokines secreted by fat cells. To date, only a few studies concerned the association of adipocytokines with febrile seizures. In this study, we tried to investigate serum and CSF levels of adiponectin, leptin, and interleukin-6 (IL-6); as adipocytokines, for the first time in Egyptian children with febrile seizures. This was a prospective cross-sectional study included one hundred patients with febrile seizure, and matched with age, gender, 100 children with febrile illness without seizures (febrile control, FC) and 100 healthy control group (HC). Serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) levels of adiponectin, leptin, and (IL-6) were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. Serum adiponectin was significantly higher in children with FS (16.8 ± 3.7 ug/ml) and the FC group (18.3 ± 4.3 ug/ml) compared to the HC group (9.5 ± 2.2 ug/ml); P < 0.05, respectively. Serum leptin was significantly lower in children with FS (0.9 ± 0.3 ng/ml) compared to both the FC group (4.7 ± 1.2 ng/ml) and the HC group (1.8 ± 0.4 ng/ml); P < 0.01, respectively. Children with FS had significantly higher serum IL-6 levels (43.7 ± 11.7 ng/ml) than the FC group (21.9 ± 4.5 ng/ml) and the HC group (6.5 ± 1.8 ng/ml); P < 0.01, respectively. Patients with simple febrile seizures (SFS) had serum and CSF adiponectin levels similar to those with complex febrile seizures (CFS); (P > 0.05). Serum and CSF leptin levels were significantly lower in patients with CFS compared to the SFS group (P < 0.05). Serum and CSF IL-6 levels were significantly higher in patients with CFS compared to the SFS group (P < 0.01). On multivariate logistic regression analysis, the high serum IL-6 levels was the most significant risk factor associated with febrile seizures among studied children (OR: 6.2; 95 % CI: 3.58 -10.57; P = 0.0001). Our data brought a novel observation that some adipocytokines like leptin and IL-6 could be, at least in part, an aetiopathogenetic factor in the manifestation of febrile seizures in susceptible Egyptian children. Moreover, we observed a significant association between high CSF IL-6 levels and susceptibility to complex febrile seizures as did the low CSF leptin levels.

Air quality of Beijing (China) and Delhi (India) and impact on Human Health and Climate in Asia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zheng, S.; Singh, R. P.; Wu, Y.; Wu, C.

2015-12-01

Air pollution has been estimated to represent a significant fraction of the total mortality attributable to 26 risk factors assessed by the World Health Organization global burden of disease project. Delhi is distributed over 1484 km2 with population density of 11297/km2 (as in 2011) and surrounded by highly industrialized National Capital region (NCR) with population density of 1050/km2. Beijing covers an area of 16,800 km2, with population density of 1300/km2 (upto 2014). It is located at the foothills of Yan Mountains and Taihang Mountains, in the North China Plain. Both these cities suffer with poor air quality and are severely affected by dense haze, fog and smog during summer and winter seasons. Earlier studies in developing countries have concentrated on limited air quality parameters. Detailed results from trace gases (O3, NO, NO2, and CO) and particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) in two Asian megacities, Delhi (India) and Beijing (China), will be presented. Trace gases and particulate matter in Beijing were collected at 31 sites during 2013-2014. The measurements in Delhi were carried out at 8 sites during October 2010 - March 2013. The annual average of PM10, PM2.5, O3, NO, NO2, and CO over Delhi in 2013 is 199 ug/m3, 123 ug/m3, 25.6 ppb, 21.5 ppb, 15.8 ppb, 1.7 ppb, respectively. The annual average of PM10, PM2.5, O3, NO2, CO, and SO2 over Beijing is 113 ug/m3, 85 ug/m3, 51 ug/m3, 46 ug/m3, 1.3 mg/m3, 23 ug/m3, respectively. The annual and seasonal variations of trace gases and particulate matter in Beijing and Delhi are also analyzed, as well as spatial changes of air pollution in these two cities. A comparative analysis in these two cities and the sources of pollution and their impact on human health and Asian climate will be discussed.

Biocompatible and Biomimetic Self Assembly of Functional Nanostructures

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-01-17

26!*,.! 62$*’,3! ’,!*!32$’ŗ%(’.!3+*+2>!U7%,! 2E7%3062! +%! Ug:%)%,25! +82! VHP ! &29’,3! +%! 78%+%.21%$7%32! *,.! +82! 3’(*,%(! 7621063%63! &21%$2...8217+’%,*(!(’+8%96*78;!4’+8!(’/’,9!12((3>! ! ! $ J4 !SS#8( !SS#8( ! # 7%L8:.#T"#?C!Z*+26!1%,+*1+!*,9(2!%-!*! VHP "+2$7(*+2.!3’(𔃻*! -’($!*3!*! -0,1+’%,!%-!Ug! (󈨦

Urinary heavy metal levels and relevant factors among people exposed to e-waste dismantling.

PubMed

Wang, Hongmei; Han, Mei; Yang, Suwen; Chen, Yanqing; Liu, Qian; Ke, Shen

2011-01-01

Primitive electronic waste (e-waste) recycling has become a growing environmental concern, and toxic heavy metals released from e-waste activities may continue to threaten the health of local people. To study the impact of heavy metals in people around e-waste sites, 349 people from e-waste recycling sites (exposure group) and 118 people from a green plantation (control group) were surveyed, and their urinary levels of lead (UPb), cadmium (UCd), manganese (UMn), copper (UCu), and Zinc (UZn) were assayed. Questionnaire surveys for risk factors were also performed and analyzed by using the Pearson correlation analysis. Results indicated that the levels of urinary Cd in both occupational dismantling people {GM(GSD) 0.72(0.71) ug/L} and non-occupational dismantling people {GM(GSD) 0.50(0.79) ug/L} were higher than the control group {GM(GSD) 0.27(0.85) ug/L}. Further analyses of correlations between urinary heavy metal levels and exposure factors in the exposed group revealed positive relationship between the duration of dismantling and the level of UPb (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, rice sources from local village have a positive correlation with the level of UPb and UCd (p < 0.01). Other factors, however, may also have influences on heavy metal burden, and not all urinary heavy metal levels can be contributed to e-waste dismantling exposure levels. Primitive e-waste recycling activities may contribute to the changes of urinary heavy metal levels and increase the health risk for those chronically working on e-waste dismantling. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

United States Air Force Research Initiation Program for 1988. Volume 4

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-04-01

Wisconsin- Madison , Univ. of - 1 Trinity University - 1 Wright State University - 5 Total 153 vi PARTICIPANTS LABORATORY ASSIGNMENT vii PARTICIPANT...25 M sucrose by resuspension and recent- rifugation. Microsomes are suspended in 84 mL 5 uW Triton X-100(TRI), 50 WM K phosphate, pH 7.4, 5 mM...the litters. Rats in Groups B-i and B-2 were exposed to 300 ug/kg of beryllium sulfate (supplied by Aldridge Chemical Co., Madison , Wisconsin

Geomechanical Assessments of Simultaneous Operation in the Case of Transition from Open Pit to Underground Mine in Vietnam

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Niedbalski, Zbigniew; Nguyen, Phu Minh Vuong; Widzyk-Capehart, Eleonora

2018-03-01

Nowadays, for a number of reasons, many open pit mines are considering a transition from Open Pit (OP) to Underground (UG) to remain competitive. In OP-UG transition, UG operation is operated simultaneously with the OP operation for a certain period of time. Guidelines for the simultaneous operation of OP and UG are very difficult to establish, as there are very few case studies available. Yet, because of the OP-UG interactions; the operation has a higher safety, technical and management requirements than the OP or UG methods when considered separately. In Vietnam, Cao Son is one of many OP mines, which decided to change the operational system from OP to UG. Simultaneous operation started in 2015 and will be conducted until 2030 when the OP mine Cao Son ends its mining activities. In this paper, selected geomechanical considerations of the simultaneous operation are presented. A number of numerical modelling calculations using finitedifference software with code FLAC were carried out for calibration process, slope stability analysis and the OP-UG interaction analysis for the Cao Son - Khe Cham II-IV mine. Based on the results obtained from numerical modelling, the geomechanical assessments of simultaneous operation Cao Son - Khe Cham II-IV are discussed in this paper.

Renal histopathology in toxicity and carcinogenicity studies with tert-butyl alcohol administered in drinking water to F344 rats: a pathology working group review and re-evaluation.

PubMed

Hard, Gordon C; Bruner, Richard H; Cohen, Samuel M; Pletcher, John M; Regan, Karen S

2011-04-01

An independent Pathology Working Group (PWG) re-evaluated the kidney changes in National Toxicology Program (NTP) toxicology/carcinogenicity studies of tert-butyl alcohol (TBA) in F344/N rats to determine possible mode(s) of action underlying renal tubule tumors in male rats at 2-years. In the 13-week study, the PWG confirmed that the normal pattern of round hyaline droplets in proximal convoluted tubules was replaced by angular droplet accumulation, and identified precursors of granular casts in the outer medulla, changes typical of alpha(2u)-globulin (α(2u)-g) nephropathy. In the 2-year study, the PWG confirmed the NTP observation of increased renal tubule tumors in treated male groups. Linear papillary mineralization, another hallmark of the α(2u)-g pathway was present only in treated male rats. Chronic progressive nephropathy (CPN) was exacerbated in high-dose males and females, with a relationship between advanced grades of CPN and renal tumor occurrence. Hyperplasia of the papilla lining was a component of CPN in both sexes, but there was no pelvic urothelial hyperplasia. High-dose females showed no TBA-related nephrotoxicity. The PWG concluded that both α(2u)-g nephropathy and exacerbated CPN modes of action were operative in TBA renal tumorigenicity in male rats, neither of which has relevance for human cancer risk. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Method Description, Quality Assurance, Environmental Data, and other Information for Analysis of Pharmaceuticals in Wastewater-Treatment-Plant Effluents, Streamwater, and Reservoirs, 2004-2009

USGS Publications Warehouse

Phillips, Patrick J.; Smith, Steven G.; Kolpin, Dana W.; Zaugg, Steven D.; Buxton, Herbert T.; Furlong, Edward T.

2010-01-01

Abstract Wastewater-treatment-plant (WWTP) effluents are a demonstrated source of pharmaceuticals to the environment. During 2004-09, a study was conducted to identify pharmaceutical compounds in effluents from WWTPs (including two that receive substantial discharges from pharmaceutical formulation facilities), streamwater, and reservoirs. The methods used to determine and quantify concentrations of seven pharmaceuticals are described. In addition, the report includes information on pharmaceuticals formulated or potentially formulated at the two pharmaceutical formulation facilities that provide substantial discharge to two of the WWTPs, and potential limitations to these data are discussed. The analytical methods used to provide data on the seven pharmaceuticals (including opioids, muscle relaxants, and other pharmaceuticals) in filtered water samples also are described. Data are provided on method performance, including spike data, method detection limit results, and an estimation of precision. Quality-assurance data for sample collection and handling are included. Quantitative data are presented for the seven pharmaceuticals in water samples collected at WWTP discharge points, from streams, and at reservoirs. Occurrence data also are provided for 19 pharmaceuticals that were qualitatively identified. Flow data at selected WWTP and streams are presented. Between 2004-09, 35-38 effluent samples were collected from each of three WWTPs in New York and analyzed for seven pharmaceuticals. Two WWTPs (NY2 and NY3) receive substantial inflows (greater than 20 percent of plant flow) from pharmaceutical formulation facilities (PFF) and one (NY1) receives no PFF flow. Samples of effluents from 23 WWTPs across the United States were analyzed once for these pharmaceuticals as part of a national survey. Maximum pharmaceutical effluent concentrations for the national survey and NY1 effluent samples were generally less than 1 ug/L. Four pharmaceuticals (methadone, oxycodone, butalbital and metaxalone) in samples of NY3 effluent had median concentrations ranging from 3.4 to greater than 400 ug/L. Maximum concentrations of oxycodone (1,700 ug/L) and metaxalone (3,800 ug/L) in samples from NY3 effluent exceeded 1,000 ug/L. Three pharmaceuticals (butalbital, carisoprodol, and oxycodone) in samples of NY2 effluent had median concentrations ranging from 2 to 11 ug/L. These findings suggest that current 2 manufacturing practices at these PFFs can result in pharmaceutical concentrations from 10 to 1,000 times higher than those typically found in WWTP effluents.

Fairness Considerations When I Know More than You Do: Developmental Comparisons

PubMed Central

Overgaauw, Sandy; Güroğlu, Berna; Crone, Eveline A.

2012-01-01

The Ultimatum Game (UG) is a valuable paradigm to study fairness considerations. Here, we tested developmental differences between altruistic and strategic motivations in fairness considerations using a version of the UG with hidden conditions. Participants were proposers and could divide coins between themselves and an anonymous other. Hidden information conditions involved division of coins where some coins were only visible to the participant (e.g., 8/2 condition where, from the total of 10 coins, 8 coins were visible to both players and 2 coins only visible to the proposer). In total, 22 young adults and 79 children between ages 8 and 13 played multiple one-shot versions of the UG with hidden conditions with anonymous others. Overall analyses confirmed validity of the task and showed that participants of all age groups had strategic intentions. Specific task analyses revealed that adults divided the coins equally in the standard UG conditions, but gave less to the second player in the hidden information conditions. The developmental comparisons revealed an age × condition interaction, such that adults and 10- to 12-year-old children differentiated between standard and hidden conditions more than 8- to 9-year-old children. These findings indicate that young children have a basic understanding of different strategic motives, but that behavior of adults and older children is driven more by strategic intentions. PMID:23162494

Phosphorus amendment reduces bioavailability of lead to mallards ingesting contaminated sediments

USGS Publications Warehouse

Heinz, G.H.; Hoffman, D.J.; Audet, D.J.

2004-01-01

Lead poisoning of waterfowl has been reported for decades in the Coeur d' Alene River Basin in Idaho as a result of the ingestion of lead-contaminated sediments. We conducted a study to determine whether the addition of phosphoric acid to sediments would reduce the bioavailability of lead to mallards (Anas platyrhynchos). When sediments were amended with 1 % phosphorus under laboratory conditions, and diets containing 12% amended sediment were fed to mallards, reductions in tissue lead were 43% in blood, 41 % in liver, and 59% in kidney with sediment containing about 4,520 ug/g lead on a dry-weight basis and 41, 30, and 57% with sediment containing about 6,990 ug/g lead. When sediments were treated with phosphorus and left to age for about 5 months in the field, reductions in lead were 56% in blood, 54% in liver, and 66% in kidney at one site with about 5,390 ug/g lead and 64, 57, and 77% at a second site with about 6,990 ug/g lead. In the field, the inability to mix the phosphoric acid uniformly and deeply enough into the sediment may have resulted in more than 1 % phosphorus being added to the sediment. Although both lab and field amendments of phosphorus substantially reduced the bioavailability of lead, lead concentrations in the tissues of mallards fed the amended sediments were still above those believed to be harmful to waterfowl. Based on earlier studies of sediment toxicity to waterfowl in the Coeur d' Alene River Basin, combined with the results of our amendment study, the addition of phosphoric acid as we used it might only significantly benefit waterfowl where sediments or soils contain less than 1,000-2,000 ug/g lead.

Characterization of the hydrogeology and water quality at the Management Systems Evaluation Area near Princeton, Minnesota, 1991-92

USGS Publications Warehouse

Delin, G.N.; Landon, M.K.; Lamb, J.A.; Anderson, J.L.

1994-01-01

Atrazine was detected by gas chromatography mass spectroscopy in 2 of the 7 wells in the research area at concentrations of 0.04 and 0.17 micrograms per liter (ug/L), well below the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's recommended maximum contaminant level of 3 ug/L. The median concentration in these Wells was less than the qualitative detection limit of 0.01 ug/L. Atrazine metabolite de-ethylatrazine was the most frequently detected herbicide or herbicide metabolite. De-ethylatrazine was detected in 5 of the 7 wells in the research area at concentrations ranging from 0.12 to 0.32 ug/L with a median concentration of 0.14 ug/L. Atrazine metabolite de-isopropylatrazine was not detected above the qualitative detection limit of 0.06 ug/L. The most likely sources of atrazine are applications to the research area during 1990 or from precipitation.

Global assessment of oceanic lead pollution using sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus) as an indicator species.

PubMed

Savery, Laura C; Wise, Sandra S; Falank, Carolyne; Wise, James; Gianios, Christy; Douglas Thompson, W; Perkins, Christopher; Zheng, Tongzhang; Zhu, Cairong; Wise, John Pierce

2014-02-15

Lead (Pb) is an oceanic pollutant of global concern. Anthropogenic activities are increasing oceanic levels, but to an unknown extent. The sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus) has a global distribution and high trophic level. The aim of this study was to establish a global baseline of oceanic Pb concentrations using free-ranging sperm whales as an indicator species. Skin biopsies (n=337) were collected during the voyage of the Odyssey (2000-2005) from 17 regions considering gender and age. Pb was detectable in 315 samples with a global mean of 1.6 ug/gww ranging from 0.1 to 129.6 ug/gww. Papua New Guinea, Bahamas and Australia had the highest regional mean with 6.1, 3.4, and 3.1 ug/gww, respectively. Pb concentrations were not significantly different between sex and age in males. This is the first global toxicological dataset for Pb in a marine mammal and confirms Pb is widely distributed with hotspots in some regions. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Reconnaissance investigation of water quality, bottom sediment, and biota associated with irrigation drainage in the middle Green River basin, Utah, 1986-87

USGS Publications Warehouse

Stephens, D.W.; Waddell, Bruce; Miller, J.B.

1988-01-01

Reconnaissance of wildlife areas in the middle Green River basin of Utah was conducted during 1986 and 1987 to determine whether irrigation drainage has caused, or has the potential to cause significant harmful effects on human health, fish, and wildlife, or may adversely affect the suitability of water for beneficial uses. Studies at Stewart Lake Waterfowl Management Area and Ouray National Wildlife Refuge indicated that concentrations of boron, selenium, and zinc in water, bottom sediment, and biological tissue were sufficiently large to be harmful to fish and wildlife, and to adversely affect beneficial uses of water. Selenium is the principal element of concern in both areas. Concentrations of dissolved selenium in irrigation drain water entering Stewart Lake Waterfowl Management Area ranged from 14-140 micrograms/L (ug/L) and consistently exceeded Utah standards for wildlife protection in water in two of the four drains. Concentrations of boron and zinc exceeded Utah standards only occasionally in the drain waters. Concentrations of total selenium in sediments collected where the drains discharge into the lake were 10-85 ug/gm. Liver tissue collected from American coots at Stewart Lake Waterfowl Management Area contained concentrations of selenium from 4.9-26 ug/gm (dry weight), and whole body samples of carp contained as much as 31 ug/gm (dry weight). Concentrations of selenium in Potamogeton and blue-green algae ranged from 2.1-27 ug/gm. Concentrations of boron, selenium, and zinc were also measured in water from Ouray National Wildlife Refuge. Liver tissue of American coots from the North Roadside Pond, which receives irrigation tailwater, contained a geometric-mean concentration of selenium of 32 ug/gm (dry weight). Five water-bird eggs collected from the North and South Roadside Ponds contained selenium concentrations of 63-120 ug/gm (dry weight). (Lantz-PTT)

Water Quality and Occurrence of Methyl Tert-Butyl Ether (MTBE) and Other Fuel-Related Compounds in Lakes and Ground Water at Lakeside Communities in Sussex and Morris Counties, New Jersey, 1998-1999

USGS Publications Warehouse

Baehr, Arthur L.; Reilly, Timothy J.

2001-01-01

Densely populated communities surround many of the larger lakes in northwestern New Jersey. These communities derive most of their water supply from wells. The lakes can be navigated by gasoline-powered watercraft, can be in various stages of eutrophication, may contain pathogens associated with bathing and waterfowl, and are periodically subjected to chemical applications to control aquatic plant growth. Another feature that contributes to water-quality concerns in lakeside communities is the widespread use of septic tanks. Concentrations of methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE), a gasoline oxygenate, in samples from Cranberry Lake and Lake Lackawanna ranged from 20 to 30 ug/L (micrograms per liter) and 5 to 14 ug/L during the summers of 1998 and 1999, respectively. These levels were persistent throughout the depth of the lakes when mixing conditions were present. MTBE concentrations in samples from the top 20 feet of Lake Hopatcong during summer 1999 were about 10 ug/L and about 2 to 3 ug/L in samples below 20 feet. The source of the MTBE in the lakes was determined to be gasoline-powered watercraft. Other constituents of gasoline--tertiary amyl methyl ether (TAME) and benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes (BTEX)--were detected in the lakes but at much lower concentrations than MTBE. Ambient ground-water quality at Cranberry Lake and Lake Lackawanna appears to be affected by the use of gasoline-powered watercraft. MTBE was detected in water samples from 13 of the 14 wells sampled at Cranberry Lake in fall 1998 and summer 1999. The wells were selected to monitor ambient ground-water quality and had no history of contamination. In ground-water samples collected during fall 1998, MTBE concentrations ranged from 0.12 to 19.8 ug/L, and the median concentration was 0.43 ug/L. In samples from summer 1999, MTBE concentrations ranged from 0.14 to 13.2 ug/L, and the median concentration was 0.38 ug/L. MTBE was detected in samples from four of the five wells at Lake Lackawanna in summer 1999;concentrations ranged from 0.05 to 0.19 ug/L. Lake/ground water interaction is a feasible explanation for the nearly ubiquitous presence of MTBE in ground water. The movement of water from lakes to wells is feasible because many static water levels and essentially all pumped water levels in the wells were below lake levels. Furthermore, diatom fragments were present in samples from the wells. Ambient ground water at Cranberry Lake also may be affected by septic-tank effluent, as indicated by the relation among concentrations of nitrate, boron, and chloroform. This result indicates potential vulnerability of the water supply to contamination by other chemicals and pathogens. Radon in ambient ground water is a concern throughout northern New Jersey. In particular, the median radon concentrations in ground-water samples collected from 14 wells at Cranberry Lake in 1998 and 1999 were 1,282 and 1,046 pCi/L, respectively. The median radon concentration in five ground-water samples collected at Lake Lackawanna in 1999 was 340 pCi/L. Although these values exceed regulatory levels, they are not high relative to radon concentrations measured in northwestern New Jersey. Eight wells in a neighborhood of Cranberry Lake with known MTBE contamination were sampled by the U.S. Geological Survey in summer 1998. MTBE was detected at concentrations greater than or equal to 40 ug/L in five of the wells. Concentrations of TAME, another gasoline oxygenate, were highly correlated with concentrations of MTBE; MTBE concentrations were about 10 times the TAME concentrations. In all samples, however, the concentrations of the BTEX compounds were less than 0.05 ug/L, and the sample from the most highly contaminated well, where the MTBE concentration was 900 ug/L, had no detectable BTEX.

First report of a variant within wheat stem rust (Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici) race TTKSF in South Africa and Zimbabwe

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Seven races have been described in the Ug99 lineage of Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici (1). Variants of Ug99 previously recorded in South Africa are TTKSF, TTKSP and PTKST (2). In December 2010, severe stem rust infection was observed on the winter wheat cultivar Matlabas at Afrikaskop in the easte...

Error-free versus mutagenic processing of genomic uracil--relevance to cancer.

PubMed

Krokan, Hans E; Sætrom, Pål; Aas, Per Arne; Pettersen, Henrik Sahlin; Kavli, Bodil; Slupphaug, Geir

2014-07-01

Genomic uracil is normally processed essentially error-free by base excision repair (BER), with mismatch repair (MMR) as an apparent backup for U:G mismatches. Nuclear uracil-DNA glycosylase UNG2 is the major enzyme initiating BER of uracil of U:A pairs as well as U:G mismatches. Deficiency in UNG2 results in several-fold increases in genomic uracil in mammalian cells. Thus, the alternative uracil-removing glycosylases, SMUG1, TDG and MBD4 cannot efficiently complement UNG2-deficiency. A major function of SMUG1 is probably to remove 5-hydroxymethyluracil from DNA with general back-up for UNG2 as a minor function. TDG and MBD4 remove deamination products U or T mismatched to G in CpG/mCpG contexts, but may have equally or more important functions in development, epigenetics and gene regulation. Genomic uracil was previously thought to arise only from spontaneous cytosine deamination and incorporation of dUMP, generating U:G mismatches and U:A pairs, respectively. However, the identification of activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID) and other APOBEC family members as DNA-cytosine deaminases has spurred renewed interest in the processing of genomic uracil. Importantly, AID triggers the adaptive immune response involving error-prone processing of U:G mismatches, but also contributes to B-cell lymphomagenesis. Furthermore, mutational signatures in a substantial fraction of other human cancers are consistent with APOBEC-induced mutagenesis, with U:G mismatches as prime suspects. Mutations can be caused by replicative polymerases copying uracil in U:G mismatches, or by translesion polymerases that insert incorrect bases opposite abasic sites after uracil-removal. In addition, kataegis, localized hypermutations in one strand in the vicinity of genomic rearrangements, requires APOBEC protein, UNG2 and translesion polymerase REV1. What mechanisms govern error-free versus error prone processing of uracil in DNA remains unclear. In conclusion, genomic uracil is an essential intermediate in adaptive immunity and innate antiviral responses, but may also be a fundamental cause of a wide range of malignancies. Copyright © 2014 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Small intestinal permeability in patients with eosinophilic oesophagitis during active phase and remission.

PubMed

Katzka, David A; Geno, Debra M; Blair, Hilary E; Lamsam, Jesse L; Alexander, Jeffrey A; Camilleri, Michael

2015-04-01

Eosinophilic oesophagitis (EoE) is presumed to be an isolated oesophageal disease; yet other allergic diseases associated with eosinophilic infiltration of target tissues, such as asthma and eczema, show perturbed functions of other sites that may be involved in the diathesis of allergy modulation. To analyse small intestinal permeability in patients with active EoE and in a separate group of patients in remission. Small bowel permeability was determined using a dual sugar method by calculating lactulose:mannitol (L:M) ratio in 17 patients who met consensus criteria for active EoE (>15 eos/HPF) and 8 patients in remission (<5 eos/HPF). Data from 28 healthy controls was used for comparison. Patients with active EoE had significantly higher L:M ratios when compared to controls (0.045 vs. 0.033, p<0.001) and to EoE in remission (0.041 vs. 0.027, p<.001). There was no significant difference in L:M between the group with EoEin remission and healthy controls. The current data show that L:M ratio of 0.033 also provides a reasonable cut-off that defined the active EoE group compared to patients in remission. The main component explaining the change in L:M ratio was increased absorption (and excretion) of lactulose ((1601 ± 106 ug) when compared to the EoE remission (969 ± 91 ug) and control (1043 ± 92 ug, p<.001) groups. Small bowel permeability is overall increased in patients with active EoE, and is normal in patients with EoE in remission when compared to healthy controls. The role of the small bowel in active EoE deserves further investigation. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.

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

PubMed Central

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

2014-01-01

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

Results of Sediment Sampling and Elutriate Testing at the Proposed Wilson Island Shallow Water Habitat Project Site

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-08-01

Aroclor1248 0.3 1.0 Endrin 0.003 0.1 PCB - Aroclor1268 0.3 1.0 Endrin Aldehyde 0.011 0.1 PCB - Aroclor1232 0.2 1.0 Endrin Ketone 0.006 0.1 PCB...Endrin aldehyde ɛ ug/kg U EPA 8081 500 3 10 W1-E4 SEDIMENT Endrin aldehyde ɛ ug/kg U EPA 8081 500 3 10 W1-E1 NONFILTERED ELUTRIATE Endrin ketone ɘ.003...Endosulfan sulfate ----- 89 89 Endrin 0.086 0.036 ----- Endrin aldehyde ----- 0.30 0.30 Heptachlor 0.52 0.00079 0.00079 Heptachlor epoxide 0.52

Autoadjusting-CPAP effect on serum Leptin concentrations in Obstructive Sleep Apnoea patients

PubMed Central

Drummond, Marta; Winck, João C; Guimarães, João T; Santos, Ana C; Almeida, João; Marques, José A

2008-01-01

Background Leptin is an hormone that regulates body weight. Studies have shown increasing leptin concentrations according to body mass index (BMI) and intermittent hypoxia. Our aim is to evaluate the basal leptin levels in OSA patients and its possible relation to OSA severity, independently of confounders and investigate the Autoadjusting-CPAP effect on leptin values. Methods In ninety eight male patients with moderate to severe OSA leptin serum levels were evaluated before therapy, 9 days and 6 months after therapy. Results In this group mean age was 55.3 years, mean BMI was 33.2 Kg/m2 and mean Apnoea- Hypopnea Index (AHI) was 51.7/h. Mean basal serum leptin value was 12.1 ug/L. Univariate analysis showed a significant correlation between serum leptin values and BMI (R = 0.68; p < 0.001), waist-hip ratio (R = 0.283; p = 0.004) and AHI (R = 0.198; p = 0.048); in stepwise multiple regression analysis only BMI (p < 0.001) was a predictor of serum leptin values. One week after therapy, mean leptin serum level decreased to 11.0 ug/L and 6 months after it was 11.4 ug/L. (p = 0.56 and p = 0.387, respectively) Conclusion Baseline leptin serum levels positively correlate with BMI, fat distributioand OSA severity. BMI is the only predictor of basal leptin levels. Treatment with Autoadjusting-CPAP has a small effect on leptin levels. PMID:18828917

Dicofol (Kelthane?)-induced eggshell thinning in captive American kestrels

USGS Publications Warehouse

Clark, D.R.; Spann, J.W.; Bunck, C.M.

1990-01-01

Reproductive parameters of American kestrels (Falco sparverius) were measured through two breeding seasons. Exposure to Kelthane? (containing no DDT-related compounds) at dietary concentrations of 0 (contro!), 1, 3, 10 and 30 ug/g (wet weight) began in late November before, and continued through, the second season. Kelthane thinned eggshells and lowered the thickness index at dietary concentrations >3 ?g/g and it reduced shell weight at >10 ?g/g when comparisons were to concurrent controls. Kelthane reduced the thickness index at >3 ug/g and it reduced shell thickness and weight at >10 ug/g when comparisons were to the same birds during the previous season. All changes were dose-related. It was not previously known that as little as 3 ug/g dicofol could cause these effects. Kestrels resembled previously studied eastern screech-owls (Otus asio) in that 10 ug/ g reduced hatchability of eggs. Both these raptors showed eggshell changes without serious effects on production of young. Available data show dicofol only equal to or less effective than DDE as a shell-thinning agent. Also, DDE may have more impact than dicofol on such critical aspects of reproduction as egg hatchability and survivability of hatchlings. Field studies of dicofol residues in food chains and of residue concentrations in eggs vs. nesting success from areas of heavy dicofol use are needed to judge this chemical's ecological impact.

Investigation of anti-motion sickness drugs in the squirrel monkey

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cheung, B. S.; Money, K. E.; Kohl, R. L.; Kinter, L. B.

1992-01-01

Early attempts to develop an animal model for anti-motion sickness drugs, using dogs and cats; were unsuccessful. Dogs did not show a beneficial effect of scopolamine (probably the best single anti-motion sickness drug for humans thus far) and the findings in cats were not definitive. The authors have developed an animal model using the squirrel monkey (Saimiri sciureus) of the Bolivian phenotype. Unrestrained monkeys in a small lucite cage were tested in an apparatus that induces motion sickness by combining vertical oscillation and horizontal rotation in a visually unrestricted laboratory environment. Signs of motion sickness were scored using a rating scale. Ten susceptible monkeys (weighing 800-1000 g) were given a total of five tests each, to establish the baseline susceptibility level. Based on the anticholinergic activity of scopolamine, the sensitivity of squirrel monkey to scopolamine was investigated, and the appropriate dose of scopolamine for this species was determined. Then various anti-motion sickness preparations were administered in subsequent tests: 100 ug scopolamine per monkey; 140 ug dexedrine; 50 ug scopolamine plus 70 ug dexedrine; 100 ug scopolamine plus 140 ug dexedrine; 3 mg promethazine; 3 mg promethazine plus 3 mg ephedrine. All these preparations were significantly effective in preventing motion sickness in the monkeys. Ephedrine, by itself, which is marginally effective in humans, was ineffective in the monkeys at the doses tried (0.3-6.0 mg). The squirrel monkey appears to be a good animal model for antimotion sickness drugs. Peripherally acting antihistamines such as astemizole and terfenadine were found to be ineffective, whereas flunarizine, and an arginine vasopressin V1 antagonist, showed significant activity in preventing motion sickness.

Urban Green Space Dynamics and Distributional Equity in Kumasi, Ghana

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nero, Bertrand

2016-08-01

Urban green spaces (UGS) are crucial for urban sustainability and resilience to environmental vulnerabilities but are often marginalized in cities in the global south. This paper analyzed the spatio-temporal change, extent and distributional inequities associated with UGS in Kumasi, Ghana. Spatial techniques and Gini index were deployed in the assessments.Kumasi UGS cover is currently 33 % but is declining fourfold faster in recent years (2009-2014) than previously (1986-2002). Shannon entropy for built-up sprawl and mean per capita UGS area in 2014 were 0.99 and 25 m2, respectively. Per capita UGS area for 2009 (r2 = 0.50, p=0.049) and 2014 (r2 = 0.53, p=0.0398) were moderately correlated with socioeconomic conditions of submetropolis. The Gini coefficient for both vegetation and tree cover was 0.26.Green space cover in Kumasi is plummeting and somewhat unevenly distributed. Strategic planning for UGS can ensure ample availability, equity in access, and resilience to climate related vulnerabilities.

Metropolitan Spokane Region Water Resources Study. Appendix A. Surface Water

DTIC Science & Technology

1976-01-01

is adequate. Cnly phenols and detergents are reported in the pollutants category and no bacteriological tests are made. Since none of the other sources...Coliform, MPN Conf No/100ml 31507 Total Coliform, MPN Comp No/lO0ml 31615 Fecal Coliform, MPNECmED No/100ml 32730 Phenols ug/1l 38260 MBAS mg/l 70507...Oil & Grease, Pesticides, I Surfactants, Sulfite Waste Liquor, Phenols WATER RESOURCES STUDY METROPOLITAN SPOKANE REGION GROUPING OF WATER QUALITY

Theory of mind deficits partly mediate impaired social decision-making in schizophrenia.

PubMed

Yang, Liuqing; Li, Peifu; Mao, Haiying; Wang, Huiling; Shu, Chang; Bliksted, Vibeke; Zhou, Yuan

2017-05-05

Using paradigms from game theory, researchers have reported abnormal decision-making in social context in patients with schizophrenia. However, less is known about the underpinnings of the impairment. This study aimed to test whether theory of mind (ToM) deficits and/or neurocognitive dysfunctions mediate impaired social decision-making in patients with schizophrenia. We compared thirty-five patients with schizophrenia to thirty-eight matched healthy controls with regard to social decision-making using the mini Ultimatum Game (mini UG), a paradigm from game theory. Additionally, we assessed ToM using the Theory of Mind Picture Stories Task, a mental state attribution task, and assessed neurocognition using the Brief Assessment of Cognition in Schizophrenia. Mediation analyses were performed on the data. In contrast to the behavioral pattern of healthy controls in the mini UG, the patients with schizophrenia significantly accepted more disadvantageous offers and rejected more advantageous offers, and showed reduced sensitivity to the fairness-related context changes in the mini UG. Impaired ToM and neurocognition were also found in the patients. Mediation analyses indicated that ToM but not neurocognition partially mediated the group differences on the disadvantageous and advantageous offers in the mini UG. Patients with schizophrenia exhibited impaired social decision-making. This impairment can be partly explained by their ToM deficits rather than neurocognitive deficits. However, the exact nature of the ToM deficits that mediate impaired social decision-making needs to be identified in future.

Biosynthesis of Enterobacterial Common Antigen: The ECA-Trace Phenotype of Salmonella Typhimurium and The Role of the rfe Gene in 08 Side-Chain Synthesis in Escherichia Coli

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-03-18

malachite green, 2mg/ml; erythromycin, 2mg/ml; bacitracin, 20mg/ml; streptomycin, 50mg/ml; crystal violet, 100mg/ml; novobiocin, Smg/ml; rifamycin...cephalosporin C, ISug/ml; actinomycin D, 37Sug/ml; kanamycin, S.6ug/ml; chlorotetracycline, 3.8ug/ml; vancomycin, 900ug/ml; malachite green, 60ug...carbenicillin; Ceph, cephalosporin C; AcID, actinomycin D; ((an, kanamycin; Ctet, chlorotetracycline; Van, vancomycin; MalG, malachite green; Eryth

Power to Punish Norm Violations Affects the Neural Processes of Fairness-Related Decision Making.

PubMed

Cheng, Xuemei; Zheng, Li; Li, Lin; Guo, Xiuyan; Wang, Qianfeng; Lord, Anton; Hu, Zengxi; Yang, Guang

2015-01-01

Punishing norm violations is considered an important motive during rejection of unfair offers in the ultimatum game (UG). The present study investigates the impact of the power to punish norm violations on people's responses to unfairness and associated neural correlates. In the UG condition participants had the power to punish norm violations, while an alternate condition, the impunity game (IG), was presented where participants had no power to punish norm violations since rejection only reduced the responder's income to zero. Results showed that unfair offers were rejected more often in UG compared to IG. At the neural level, anterior insula and dorsal anterior cingulate cortex were more active when participants received and rejected unfair offers in both UG and IG. Moreover, greater dorsolateral prefrontal cortex activity was observed when participants rejected than accepted unfair offers in UG but not in IG. Ventromedial prefrontal cortex activation was higher in UG than IG when unfair offers were accepted as well as when rejecting unfair offers in IG as opposed to UG. Taken together, our results demonstrate that the power to punish norm violations affects not only people's behavioral responses to unfairness but also the neural correlates of the fairness-related social decision-making process.

Propylene glycol monomethyl ether (PGME): inhalation toxicity and carcinogenicity in Fischer 344 rats and B6C3F1 mice.

PubMed

Spencer, Pamela J; Crissman, James W; Stott, William T; Corley, Richard A; Cieszlak, Frank S; Schumann, Alan M; Hardisty, Jerry F

2002-01-01

A series of inhalation studies with propylene glycol monomethyl ether (PGME) vapor were undertaken to characterize its subchronic toxicity in mice and chronic toxicity/oncogenicity in rats and mice. Groups of male and female Fischer 344 rats and B6C3F1 mice were exposed to 0, 300, 1,000, or 3,000 ppm vapor from 1 week to 2 years. Primary treatment-related effects included: initial sedation of animals exposed to 3,000 ppm and its subsequent resolution correlating with induction of hepatic mixed function oxidase activity and S-phase DNA synthesis; elevated mortality in high-exposure male rats and mice (chronic study); elevated deposition of alpha2u-globulin (alpha2U-G) and associated nephropathy and S-phase DNA synthesis in male rat kidneys; accelerated atrophy of the adrenal gland X-zone in female mice (subchronic study only); and increased occurrence and/or severity of eosinophilic foci of altered hepatocytes in male rats. No toxicologically relevant statistically significant increases in neoplasia occurred in either species. A numerical increase in the incidence of kidney adenomas occurred in intermediate-exposure male rats; however, the association with alpha2U-G nephropathy, a male rat specific effect, indicated a lack of relevance for human risk assessment.

[Glucooxidative stress and spontaneous abortion in pregnant women with diabetes mellitus type 1].

PubMed

Todorova, K; Ivanov, S; Mazneĭkova, V; Genova, M

2005-01-01

The pregnancies in women with Diabetes mellitus are in condition of increased glucooxidative stress, which could be toxic for the developing embryo. END-POINTS: To evaluate the levels of selenium and glutation peroxidase in pregnant women with Diabetes mellitus type 1 in the first trimester of pregnancy and to establish whether there is a correlation between the diabetic glycemic control and occurrence of spontaneous abortions. Prospective study of 75 women for 1 year period. he pregnant women were divided in 3 groups as follows: 1st group--30 pregnant women with Diabetes mellitus type 1 with normal outcome; 2nd group--16 pregnant women with Diabetes mellitus type 1 with spontaneous abortion; 3rd group--29 healthy pregnant controls. The activity of GI-Px in red blood cells was measured in hemolysat of EDTA plasma in Germany. The levels of glucosylated haemoglobin were also evaluated. 1. In all pregnant women the levels of selenium were lower without significant difference between them 1st group--0.12 +/- 0.6 mmol/l, 2ndd group 0.13 +/- 0.1 mmol/l, 3rd group 0.13 +/- 0.7 mmol/l (P > 0.05). 2. There is an increase in the activity of GI-Px, which is statistically significant in the healthy pregnant women 47.8 +/- 13.3 U/g Hb and diabetic pregnant women with normal outcome 48. 6 +/- 8.4 U/g Hb. There is no statistically significant difference in the activity of GI-Px in diabetic pregnant women with spontaneous abortions and the healthy controls (P > 0. 05). 3. Negative correlation between the levels of selenium and the activity of GI-Px was proved in healthy pregnant women (r = - 0.4; P < 0.05). No correlation was found between the level of the selenium and the activity of GI-Px into the two groups of diabetic pregnant women. 4. There is a correlation in the levels of diabetic pregnant women with spontaneous abortions (r = -0.38; P < 0.001). The increased activity of GI-Px in diabetic pregnant women with spontaneous abortions is a result of increased antioxidative defense of the cell. Probably the ineffective antioxidant defense, leading to a spontaneous abortion is due to the low levels of selenium and high level of pre-prandial glycaemia.

46 CFR 54.01-25 - Miscellaneous pressure components (modifies UG-11).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Miscellaneous pressure components (modifies UG-11). 54.01-25 Section 54.01-25 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS General Requirements § 54.01-25 Miscellaneous pressure components (modifies UG-11). (a) Pressure components for pressure...

46 CFR 54.01-25 - Miscellaneous pressure components (modifies UG-11).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Miscellaneous pressure components (modifies UG-11). 54.01-25 Section 54.01-25 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS General Requirements § 54.01-25 Miscellaneous pressure components (modifies UG-11). (a) Pressure components for pressure...

46 CFR 54.01-25 - Miscellaneous pressure components (modifies UG-11).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Miscellaneous pressure components (modifies UG-11). 54.01-25 Section 54.01-25 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS General Requirements § 54.01-25 Miscellaneous pressure components (modifies UG-11). (a) Pressure components for pressure...

46 CFR 54.01-25 - Miscellaneous pressure components (modifies UG-11).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Miscellaneous pressure components (modifies UG-11). 54.01-25 Section 54.01-25 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS General Requirements § 54.01-25 Miscellaneous pressure components (modifies UG-11). (a) Pressure components for pressure...

46 CFR 54.01-25 - Miscellaneous pressure components (modifies UG-11).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Miscellaneous pressure components (modifies UG-11). 54.01-25 Section 54.01-25 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS General Requirements § 54.01-25 Miscellaneous pressure components (modifies UG-11). (a) Pressure components for pressure...

New approaches to rust resistance in wheat

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Ug99 is new race of Puccinia graminis that is virulent on most of the widely deployed stem rust resistance genes from wheat, posing a serious threat to global wheat production. Sr35, a resistance gene from Triticum monococcum, confers resistance to Ug99 and all related Ug99-derived stem rust races i...

Relation of oxidant-antioxidant imbalance with disease progression in patients with asthma.

PubMed

Ahmad, Asrar; Shameem, Mohammad; Husain, Qayyum

2012-10-01

Asthma is a chronic airway disorder which is associated to the inflammatory cells. Inflammatory and immune cells generate more reactive oxygen species in patients suffering from asthma which leads to tissue injury. To investigate the role of oxidant-antioxidant imbalance in disease progression of asthmatic patients. In this study, 130 asthmatic patients and 70 healthy controls were documented. For this malondialdehyde level, total protein carbonyls, sulfhydryls, activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), total blood glutathione, and total antioxidant capacity (FRAP) were measured. Analysis of the data was done using unpaired student t test and one-way ANOVA analysis. P < 0.05 was considered significant. The present work showed that the systemic levels of MDA (4.19 ± 0.10 nmol/ml, P < 0.001) and protein carbonyls (1.13 ± 0.02 nmol/mg, P < 0.001) were found to be remarkably higher in asthmatic patients while protein sulfhydryls (0.55 ± 0.01 mmol/l, P < 0.05) decreased as compared to controls (2.84 ± 0.12 nmol/ml, 0.79 ± 0.02 nmol/mg and 0.60 ± 0.02 mmol/l, respectively). We also observed decrease in activities of SOD (2047 ± 50.34 U/g Hb, P < 0.05), catalase (4374 ± 67.98 U/g Hb, P < 0.01), and GPx (40.97 ± 1.05 U/g Hb, P < 0.01) in erythrocytes compared to control (2217 ± 60.11 U/g Hb, 4746 ± 89.94 U/g Hb, and 48.37 ± 2.47 U/g Hb, respectively). FRAP level (750.90 ± 21.22 μmol/l, P < 0.05) in plasma was decreased, whereas total blood glutathione increased (0.94 ± 0.02 mmol/l, P < 0.05) as seen in control (840.40 ± 28.39 μmol/l and 0.84 ± 0.04 mmol/l). This work supports and describes the hypothesis that an imbalance between oxidant-antioxidant is associated to the oxidative stress which plays a significant role in severity of the disease.

U.S. Natural Gas Storage Risk-Based Ranking Methodology and Results

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

Folga, Steve; Portante, Edgar; Shamsuddin, Shabbir

2016-10-01

This report summarizes the methodology and models developed to assess the risk to energy delivery from the potential loss of underground gas storage (UGS) facilities located within the United States. The U.S. has a total of 418 existing storage fields, of which 390 are currently active. The models estimate the impacts of a disruption of each of the active UGS facilities on their owners/operators, including (1) local distribution companies (LDCs), (2) directly connected transporting pipelines and thus on the customers in downstream States, and (3) third-party entities and thus on contracted customers expecting the gas shipment. Impacts are measured acrossmore » all natural gas customer classes. For the electric sector, impacts are quantified in terms of natural gas-fired electric generation capacity potentially affected from the loss of a UGS facility. For the purpose of calculating the overall supply risk, the overall consequence of the disruption of an UGS facility across all customer classes is expressed in terms of the number of expected equivalent residential customer outages per year, which combines the unit business interruption cost per customer class and the estimated number of affected natural gas customers with estimated probabilities of UGS disruptions. All models and analyses are based on publicly available data. The report presents a set of findings and recommendations in terms of data, further analyses, regulatory requirements and standards, and needs to improve gas/electric industry coordination for electric reliability.« less

Effects of TBT (Tributyltin) on Marine Organisms: Field Assessment of a New Site-Specific Bioassay System.

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-12-01

evaluated in San Diego Bay over a 7-month period using tributyltin ( TBT ) antifouling leachates. Three TBT concentrations (k = 0.065, 0.077 and 0.193 ug...tional value and epifaunal organisms and 2) test using tributyltin (TT) antifouling leachates. the efficacy of the PETS. The results of the TBT Three...GROUP antifouling leachates biomass TBT -coated panel bioconcentration 19. STRACT 1w m nmwat-a iy .r) A Portable Environmental Test System (PETS) was

The superoxide dismutase (SOD)-mimic manganese-deferoxamine (Mn-DFO) improves survival following hemorrhagic and endotoxic shock

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

de Garavilla, L.; Chermak, T.; Valentine, H.L.

1990-02-26

The novel, low-molecular weight, organo-metallic complex Mn-DFO functions in vitro as an SOD-mimic effectively dismutating the superoxide radical. Oxygen-derived free radicals appear to be involved in the pathology of both endotoxic (ENDO) and hemorrhagic (HEM) shock whereby treatment with SOD is associated with improvements in survival. Therefore, the following models were utilized to evaluate the in vivo activity of Mn-DFO. Male rats (350-450g) were anesthetized with ketamine (100mg/kg, ip) and subjected to HEM hypotension by withdrawing approximately 40% of the animals' blood volume over a 10 minute period. MABP was maintained constant at 40mmHg for 60 minutes, followed by completemore » autoreinfusion. Survival was reduced to 20% in the control group at 24 hour post-reinfusion. A single post-shock dose of Mn-DFO (10mg/kg, iv) more than doubled the survival rate for up to 24 hour post-reinfusion as compared to control. Female mice (CFmal and-1, 20-25g) were challenged with 500ug of ENDO and 0.8ug of actinomycin/animal and dosed 1 hour pre and post with Mn-DFO (30mg/kg/dose, iv). Survival improved from 60% in the control group to 100% in the Mn-DFO group at 18 hours post ENDO challenge. Using a multiple dosing regimen, Mn-DFO significantly improved survival for up to 48 hours post-ENDO. Thus, unlike other SOD-mimics, Mn-DFO appears to exhibit in vivo activity.« less

Gallic acid-based alkyl esters synthesis in a water-free system by celite-bound lipase of Bacillus licheniformis SCD11501.

PubMed

Sharma, Shivika; Kanwar, Shamsher S; Dogra, Priyanka; Chauhan, Ghanshyam S

2015-01-01

Gallic acid (3, 4, 5- trihydroxybenzoic acid) is an important antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and radical scavenging agent. In the present study, a purified thermo-tolerant extra-cellular lipase of Bacillus licheniformis SCD11501 was successfully immobilized by adsorption on Celite 545 gel matrix followed by treatment with a cross-linking agent, glutaraldehyde. The celite-bound lipase treated with glutaraldehyde showed 94.8% binding/retention of enzyme activity (36 U/g; specific activity 16.8 U/g matrix; relative increase in enzyme activity 64.7%) while untreated matrix resulted in 88.1% binding/retention (28.0 U/g matrix; specific activity 8.5 U/g matrix) of lipase. The celite-bound lipase was successfully used to synthesis methyl gallate (58.2%), ethyl gallate (66.9%), n-propyl gallate (72.1%), and n-butyl gallate (63.8%) at 55(o) C in 10 h under shaking (150 g) in a water-free system by sequentially optimizing various reaction parameters. The low conversion of more polar alcohols such as methanol and ethanol into their respective gallate esters might be due to the ability of these alcohols to severely remove water from the protein hydration shell, leading to enzyme inactivation. Molecular sieves added to the reaction mixture resulted in enhanced yield of the alkyl ester(s). The characterization of synthesised esters was done through fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and (1) H NMR spectrum analysis. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers.

Two bladders and two vaginas in two planes: one urogenital sinus.

PubMed

Shaw, Matthew B K; Cain, Mark P; Rink, Richard C

2003-07-01

We report 2 cases of persistent urogenital sinus (UGS) with duplication of the bladder and vagina in different planes. Cystoscopy and vaginoscopy were used to diagnose persistent UGS with bladder and vaginal duplication in 2 infants with recurrent urinary tract infection. Surgical repair was done by way of a midline abdominal and perineal approach using tubularized UGS to reconstruct the urethra. Persistent UGS represents a major anomaly; these patients had the added complexity of duplication of the bladder and vagina. In these complex patients, the true anatomy may only become apparent during the surgical reconstruction, necessitating a flexible, individual approach.

Cardiovascular Disease, Mortality Risk and Healthcare Costs by Lipoprotein(a) Levels According to Low Density Lipoprotein-Cholesterol Levels in Older High Risk Adults

PubMed Central

Zhao, Yanglu; Delaney, Joseph A; Quek, Ruben G.W.; Gardin, Julius M.; Hirsch, Calvin; Gandra, Shravanthi R.; Wong, Nathan D.

2017-01-01

Background The value of lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] for predicting cardiovascular disease (CVD) across low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) is uncertain. We examined in older high risk adults these associations with CVD events, mortality, and healthcare costs. Methods We included 3,251 high risk subjects (prior CVD, diabetes or 10-year Framingham CVD risk > 20%) aged ≥ 65 years from the Cardiovascular Health Study with LDL-C and Lp(a). We examined the relation of Lp(a) tertiles with incident CVD, coronary heart disease (CHD) and all-cause mortality within LDL-C strata (< 70 mg/dL, 70–99 mg/dL, 100–129 mg/dL, 130–159 mg/dL and ≥ 160 mg/dL). We also examined 1-year all-cause and CVD healthcare costs from Medicare claims. Results Over up a 22.5-year follow-up, higher Lp(a) levels predicted CVD and total mortality [both standardized hazard ratio (HR) =1.06, p<0.01] while higher LDL-C levels predicted higher CHD (standardized HR =1.09, p<0.01) but lower total mortality (standardized HR =0.94, p< 0.001). Adjusted HRs in the highest (vs. lowest) tertile of Lp(a) level were 1.95 (p=0.06) for CVD events and 2.68 (p=0.03) for CHD events when LDL-C was < 70 mg/dL. One year all-cause healthcare costs were increased for Lp(a) [$771 per SD of 56 ug/mL (p=0.03), $1,976 for Lp(a) 25–64 ug/mL vs. < 25 ug/mL (p=0.02) and $1648 for Lp(a) ≥ 65 ug/mL vs. < 25 ug/mL (p=0.054)], but not LDL-C. Conclusion In older high risk adults, increased Lp(a) levels were associated with higher CVD risk especially in those with LDL-C < 70 mg/dL and with higher healthcare costs. PMID:27177347

46 CFR 54.10-5 - Maximum allowable working pressure (reproduces UG-98).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Maximum allowable working pressure (reproduces UG-98). 54.10-5 Section 54.10-5 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS Inspection, Reports, and Stamping § 54.10-5 Maximum allowable working pressure (reproduces UG-98). (a) The maximum allowable...

46 CFR 54.10-5 - Maximum allowable working pressure (reproduces UG-98).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Maximum allowable working pressure (reproduces UG-98). 54.10-5 Section 54.10-5 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS Inspection, Reports, and Stamping § 54.10-5 Maximum allowable working pressure (reproduces UG-98). (a) The maximum allowable...

46 CFR 54.10-15 - Pneumatic test (modifies UG-100).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Pneumatic test (modifies UG-100). 54.10-15 Section 54.10-15 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS Inspection, Reports, and Stamping § 54.10-15 Pneumatic test (modifies UG-100). (a) Pneumatic testing of welded pressure vessels shall be...

46 CFR 54.10-5 - Maximum allowable working pressure (reproduces UG-98).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Maximum allowable working pressure (reproduces UG-98). 54.10-5 Section 54.10-5 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS Inspection, Reports, and Stamping § 54.10-5 Maximum allowable working pressure (reproduces UG-98). (a) The maximum allowable...

46 CFR 54.10-5 - Maximum allowable working pressure (reproduces UG-98).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Maximum allowable working pressure (reproduces UG-98). 54.10-5 Section 54.10-5 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS Inspection, Reports, and Stamping § 54.10-5 Maximum allowable working pressure (reproduces UG-98). (a) The maximum allowable...

46 CFR 54.10-15 - Pneumatic test (modifies UG-100).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Pneumatic test (modifies UG-100). 54.10-15 Section 54.10-15 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS Inspection, Reports, and Stamping § 54.10-15 Pneumatic test (modifies UG-100). (a) Pneumatic testing of welded pressure vessels shall be...

46 CFR 54.10-15 - Pneumatic test (modifies UG-100).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Pneumatic test (modifies UG-100). 54.10-15 Section 54.10-15 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS Inspection, Reports, and Stamping § 54.10-15 Pneumatic test (modifies UG-100). (a) Pneumatic testing of welded pressure vessels shall be...

Mapping and characterization of wheat stem rust resistance genes SrTm5 and Sr60 from Triticum monococcum.

PubMed

Chen, Shisheng; Guo, Yan; Briggs, Jordan; Dubach, Felix; Chao, Shiaoman; Zhang, Wenjun; Rouse, Matthew N; Dubcovsky, Jorge

2018-03-01

The new stem rust resistance gene Sr60 was fine-mapped to the distal region of chromosome arm 5A m S, and the TTKSK-effective gene SrTm5 could be a new allele of Sr22. The emergence and spread of new virulent races of the wheat stem rust pathogen (Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici; Pgt), including the Ug99 race group, is a serious threat to global wheat production. In this study, we mapped and characterized two stem rust resistance genes from diploid wheat Triticum monococcum accession PI 306540. We mapped SrTm5, a previously postulated gene effective to Ug99, on chromosome arm 7A m L, completely linked to Sr22. SrTm5 displayed a different race specificity compared to Sr22 indicating that they are distinct. Sequencing of the Sr22 homolog in PI 306540 revealed a novel haplotype. Characterization of the segregating populations with Pgt race QFCSC revealed an additional resistance gene on chromosome arm 5A m S that was assigned the official name Sr60. This gene was also effective against races QTHJC and SCCSC but not against TTKSK (a Ug99 group race). Using two large mapping populations (4046 gametes), we mapped Sr60 within a 0.44 cM interval flanked by sequenced-based markers GH724575 and CJ942731. These two markers delimit a 54.6-kb region in Brachypodium distachyon chromosome 4 and a 430-kb region in the Chinese Spring reference genome. Both regions include a leucine-rich repeat protein kinase (LRRK123.1) that represents a potential candidate gene. Three CC-NBS-LRR genes were found in the colinear Brachypodium region but not in the wheat genome. We are currently developing a Bacterial Artificial Chromosome library of PI 306540 to determine which of these candidate genes are present in the T. monococcum genome and to complete the cloning of Sr60.

Fate of permethrin in model outdoor ponds

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

Rawn, G.P.; Webster, G.R.; Muir, D.C.

1982-01-01

In 1979 and 1980, outdoor artificial ponds were treated with /sup 14/C-permethrin (labelled at either the cyclopropyl or methylene position) at 0.028 kg/ha (15 ug/L). Uptake of permethrin by duckweed and hydrosoil was monitored by direct combustion, TLC-autoradiography, HPLC, and liquid scintillation counting. Rapid loss of permethrin from the water coincided with the detection of five degradation products in the water at concentrations below 2.0 ug/L. The products were cis- and trans-cyclopropyl acid, phenoxybenzoic acid, and phenoxybenzyl alcohol, and an unknown non-cleaved product of permethrin. Permethrin was readily sorbed by duckweed but was not persistent. Permethrin residues in the hydrosoil,more » which was the major sink for permethrin added to the ponds, were persistent and were detected at 420 days post-treatment. Cis-permethrin was more persistent in the hydrosoil than the trans-permethrin. The results indicated that permethrin in water was short-lived at an application rate of 15 ug/L because of the rapid degradation of permethrin in the water and sorption of permethrin by the hydrosoil and vegetation. However, at one year post-treatment, permethrin residues were still detected in the hydrosoil at 1.0 ug/kg.« less

A Genome-wide Analysis of Admixture in Uyghurs and a High-Density Admixture Map for Disease-Gene Discovery

PubMed Central

Xu, Shuhua; Jin, Li

2008-01-01

Following up on our previous study, we conducted a genome-wide analysis of admixture for two Uyghur population samples (HGDP-UG and PanAsia-UG), collected from the northern and southern regions of Xinjiang in China, respectively. Both HGDP-UG and PanAsia-UG showed a substantial admixture of East-Asian (EAS) and European (EUR) ancestries, with an empirical estimation of ancestry contribution of 53:47 (EAS:EUR) and 48:52 for HGDP-UG and PanAsia-UG, respectively. The effective admixture time under a model with a single pulse of admixture was estimated as 110 generations and 129 generations, or admixture events occurred about 2200 and 2580 years ago for HGDP-UG and PanAsia-UG, respectively, assuming an average of 20 yr per generation. Despite Uyghurs' earlier history compared to other admixture populations, admixture mapping, holds promise for this population, because of its large size and its mixture of ancestry from different continents. We screened multiple databases and identified a genome-wide single-nucleotide polymorphism panel that can distinguish EAS and EUR ancestry of chromosomal segments in Uyghurs. The panel contains 8150 ancestry-informative markers (AIMs) showing large frequency differences between EAS and EUR populations (FST > 0.25, mean FST = 0.43) but small frequency differences (7999 AIMs validated) within both populations (FST < 0.05, mean FST < 0.01). We evaluated the effectiveness of this admixture map for localizing disease genes in two Uyghur populations. To our knowledge, our map constitutes the first practical resource for admixture mapping in Uyghurs, and it will enable studies of diseases showing differences in genetic risk between EUR and EAS populations. PMID:18760393

The Development of Theory of Mind and Positive and Negative Reciprocity in Preschool Children

PubMed Central

Schug, Joanna; Takagishi, Haruto; Benech, Catalina; Okada, Hiroyuki

2016-01-01

This study examined the relation between the acquisition of false-beliefs theory of mind (ToM) and reciprocity in preschoolers. Preschool-aged children completed a task assessing the understanding of false beliefs, and played an Ultimatum Game (UG) with another child in a face-to-face setting. Negative reciprocity was assessed by examining the rejection of unfair offers made by another child in the UG, while positive reciprocity was assessed by examining allocations made by participants in a Dictator Game (DG) following the UG. The results indicated that children who had passed a task assessing first-order false beliefs were more likely to make generous offers in a DG following a fair offer made by their partner in a proceeding UG, but that false beliefs ToM was unrelated to the rejection of unfair offers in the UG. PMID:27445881

The Development of Theory of Mind and Positive and Negative Reciprocity in Preschool Children.

PubMed

Schug, Joanna; Takagishi, Haruto; Benech, Catalina; Okada, Hiroyuki

2016-01-01

This study examined the relation between the acquisition of false-beliefs theory of mind (ToM) and reciprocity in preschoolers. Preschool-aged children completed a task assessing the understanding of false beliefs, and played an Ultimatum Game (UG) with another child in a face-to-face setting. Negative reciprocity was assessed by examining the rejection of unfair offers made by another child in the UG, while positive reciprocity was assessed by examining allocations made by participants in a Dictator Game (DG) following the UG. The results indicated that children who had passed a task assessing first-order false beliefs were more likely to make generous offers in a DG following a fair offer made by their partner in a proceeding UG, but that false beliefs ToM was unrelated to the rejection of unfair offers in the UG.

USMC UGS technology advancements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hartup, David C.; Barr, Michael E.; Hirz, Philip M.; Kipp, Jason; Fishburn, Thomas A.; Waller, Ezra S.; Marks, Brian A.

2008-04-01

Technology advancements for the USMC UGS system are described. Integration of the ARL Blue Radio/CSR into the System Controller and Radio Repeater permit the TRSS system to operate seamlessly within the Family of UGS concept. In addition to the Blue Radio/CSR, the TRSS system provides VHF and SATCOM radio links. The TRSS system is compatible with a wide range of imagers, including those with both analog and digital interfaces. The TRSS System Controller permits simultaneous monitoring of 2 camera inputs. To complement enhanced compatibility and improved processing, the mechanical housing of the TRSS System Controller has been updated. The SDR-II, a system monitoring device, also incorporates four Blue Radio/CSRs along with other communication capabilities, making it an ideal choice for a monitoring station within the Family of UGS. Field testing of L-3 Nova's UGS system at YPG has shown flawless performance, capturing all 126 targets.

High-speed resistance training is more effective than low-speed resistance training to increase functional capacity and muscle performance in older women.

PubMed

Ramírez-Campillo, Rodrigo; Castillo, Angélica; de la Fuente, Carlos I; Campos-Jara, Christian; Andrade, David C; Álvarez, Cristian; Martínez, Cristian; Castro-Sepúlveda, Mauricio; Pereira, Ana; Marques, Mário C; Izquierdo, Mikel

2014-10-01

To examine the effects of 12 weeks of high-speed resistance training (RT) versus low-speed RT on muscle strength [one repetition of maximum leg-press (1RMLP) and bench-press (1RMBP), plus dominant (HGd) and non-dominant maximum isometric handgrip], power [counter-movement jump (CMJ), ball throwing (BT) and 10-m walking sprint (S10)], functional performance [8-foot up-and-go test (UG) and sit-to-stand test (STS)], and perceived quality of life in older women. 45 older women were divided into a high-speed RT group [EG, n=15, age=66.3±3.7y], a low-speed RT group [SG, n=15, age=68.7±6.4y] and a control group [CG, n=15, age=66.7±4.9y]. The SG and EG were submitted to a similar 12-week RT program [3 sets of 8 reps at 40-75% of the one-repetition maximum (1

Search for anomalous Wtb couplings and flavour-changing neutral currents in t-channel single top quark production in pp collisions at $$ \\sqrt{s}=7 $$ and 8 TeV

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

Khachatryan, V.; Sirunyan, A. M.; Tumasyan, A.

Single top quark events produced in the t channel are used to set limits on anomalous Wtb couplings and to search for top quark flavour-changing neutral current (FCNC) interactions. The data taken with the CMS detector at the LHC in proton-proton collisions atmore » $$ \\sqrt{s}=7 $$ and 8 TeV correspond to integrated luminosities of 5.0 and 19.7 fb$$^{-1}$$, respectively. We performed an analysis using events with one muon and two or three jets. A Bayesian neural network technique is used to discriminate between the signal and backgrounds, which are observed to be consistent with the standard model prediction. The 95% confidence level (CL) exclusion limits on anomalous right-handed vector, and left- and right-handed tensor Wtb couplings are measured to be |f$$_{V}^{R}$$ |<0.16, |f$$_{T}^{L}$$ |<0.057, and -0.049 < f$$_{T}^{R}$$<0.048, respectively. Furthermore, for the FCNC couplings κ$$_{tug}$$ and κ$$_{tcg}$$, the 95% CL upper limits on coupling strengths are |κ$$_{tug}$$|/Λ<4.1×10$$^{-3}$$ TeV$$^{-1}$$ and |κ$$_{tcg}$$|/Λ<1.8×10$$^{-2}$$ TeV$$^{-1}$$, where Λ is the scale for new physics, and correspond to upper limits on the branching fractions of 2.0 × 10$$^{-5}$$ and 4.1 × 10$$^{-4}$$ for the decays t → ug and t → cg, respectively.« less

Search for anomalous Wtb couplings and flavour-changing neutral currents in t-channel single top quark production in pp collisions at $$ \\sqrt{s}=7 $$ and 8 TeV

DOE PAGES

Khachatryan, V.; Sirunyan, A. M.; Tumasyan, A.; ...

2017-02-07

Single top quark events produced in the t channel are used to set limits on anomalous Wtb couplings and to search for top quark flavour-changing neutral current (FCNC) interactions. The data taken with the CMS detector at the LHC in proton-proton collisions atmore » $$ \\sqrt{s}=7 $$ and 8 TeV correspond to integrated luminosities of 5.0 and 19.7 fb$$^{-1}$$, respectively. We performed an analysis using events with one muon and two or three jets. A Bayesian neural network technique is used to discriminate between the signal and backgrounds, which are observed to be consistent with the standard model prediction. The 95% confidence level (CL) exclusion limits on anomalous right-handed vector, and left- and right-handed tensor Wtb couplings are measured to be |f$$_{V}^{R}$$ |<0.16, |f$$_{T}^{L}$$ |<0.057, and -0.049 < f$$_{T}^{R}$$<0.048, respectively. Furthermore, for the FCNC couplings κ$$_{tug}$$ and κ$$_{tcg}$$, the 95% CL upper limits on coupling strengths are |κ$$_{tug}$$|/Λ<4.1×10$$^{-3}$$ TeV$$^{-1}$$ and |κ$$_{tcg}$$|/Λ<1.8×10$$^{-2}$$ TeV$$^{-1}$$, where Λ is the scale for new physics, and correspond to upper limits on the branching fractions of 2.0 × 10$$^{-5}$$ and 4.1 × 10$$^{-4}$$ for the decays t → ug and t → cg, respectively.« less

Reliability, Concurrent Validity, and Minimal Detectable Change for iPhone Goniometer App in Assessing Knee Range of Motion.

PubMed

Mehta, Saurabh P; Barker, Katherine; Bowman, Brett; Galloway, Heather; Oliashirazi, Nicole; Oliashirazi, Ali

2017-07-01

Much of the published works assessing the reliability of smartphone goniometer apps (SG) have poor generalizability since the reliability was assessed in healthy subjects. No research has established the values for standard error of measurement (SEM) or minimal detectable change (MDC) which have greater clinical utility to contextualize the range of motion (ROM) assessed using the SG. This research examined the test-retest reproducibility, concurrent validity, SEM, and MDC values for the iPhone goniometer app (i-Goni; June Software Inc., v.1.1, San Francisco, CA) in assessing knee ROM in patients with knee osteoarthritis or those after total knee replacement. A total of 60 participants underwent data collection which included the assessment of active knee ROM using the i-Goni and the universal goniometer (UG; EZ Read Jamar Goniometer, Patterson Medical, Warrenville, IL), knee muscle strength, and assessment of pain and lower extremity disability using quadruple numeric pain rating scale (Q-NPRS) and lower extremity functional scale (LEFS), respectively. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated to assess the reproducibility of the knee ROM assessed using the i-Goni and UG. Bland and Altman technique examined the agreement between these knee ROM. The SEM and MDC values were calculated for i-Goni assessed knee ROM to characterize the error in a single score and the index of true change, respectively. Pearson correlation coefficient examined concurrent relationships between the i-Goni and other measures. The ICC values for the knee flexion/extension ROM were superior for i-Goni (0.97/0.94) compared with the UG (0.95/0.87). The SEM values were smaller for i-Goni assessed knee flexion/extension (2.72/1.18 degrees) compared with UG assessed knee flexion/extension (3.41/1.62 degrees). Similarly, the MDC values were smaller for both these ROM for the i-Goni (6.3 and 2.72 degrees) suggesting smaller change required to infer true change in knee ROM. The i-Goni assessed knee ROM showed expected concurrent relationships with UG, knee muscle strength, Q-NPRS, and the LEFS. In conclusion, the i-Goni demonstrated superior reproducibility with smaller measurement error compared with UG in assessing knee ROM in the recruited cohort. Future research can expand the inquiry for assessing the reliability of the i-Goni to other joints. Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Using underground gas storage to replace the swing capacity of the giant natural gas field of Groningen in the Netherlands. A reservoir performance feasibility study.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Juez-Larre, Joaquim; Remmelts, Gijs; Breunese, Jaap; Van Gessel, Serge; Leeuwenburgh, Olwijn

2017-04-01

In this study we probe the ultimate potential Underground Gas Storage (UGS) capacity of the Netherlands by carrying out a detailed feasibility study on inflow performances of all available onshore natural gas reservoirs. The Netherlands is one of the largest natural gas producers in Western Europe. The current decline of its national production and looming production restrictions on its largest field of Groningen -owing to its induced seismicity- have recently made necessary to upgrade the two largest UGS of Norg and Grijpskerk. The joined working volume of these two UGS is expected to replace the swing capacity of the Groningen field to continue guaranteeing the security of supply of low calorific natural gas. The question is whether the current UGS configuration will provide the expected working storage capacity unrestricted by issues on reservoir performances and/or induced seismicity. This matter will be of paramount importance in the near future when production restrictions and/or the advance state of depletion of the Groningen field will turn the Netherlands into a net importer of high calorific natural gas. By then, the question will be whether the current UGS will still be economically attractive to continue operating, or if additional/alternative types of UGS will be needed?. Hence the characterization and ranking of the best potential reservoirs available today is of paramount importance for future UGS developments. We built an in-house automated module based on the application of the traditional inflow performance relationship analysis to screen the performances of 156 natural gas reservoirs in onshore Netherlands. Results enable identifying the 72 best candidates with an ultimate total working volume capacity of 122±30 billion Sm3. A detailed sensitivity analysis shows the impact of variations in the reservoir properties or wellbore/tubing configurations on withdrawal performances and storage capacity. We validate our predictions by comparing them to performances of the UGSs currently operating in the Netherlands. Our results show that although Norg and Grijpskerk stand midst the best candidates, their working:cushion gas volume (wv:cv) ratios appear amongst the lowest. We found many other reservoir candidates with higher wv:cv ratios (>1) and working volumes between 3 and 10 billion Sm3 geographically distributed across the Netherlands. Any of the current and future UGSs will have to compete with economically more attractive means of gas import via pipelines and liquefied natural gas. We suggest that only the strategic development of a network of efficient underground gas storages with wv:cv ratios >1, could increase its economical attractiveness. This can reduce future dependence on foreign gas supply for cases of import disruption or shortages during peak demand in winter periods. Future political and economic decisions and societal acceptance will determine the role that UGS will play in the security of supply of natural gas in the Netherlands and Western Europe.

Analytical Review of Universal Grammar (UG) Approach on Second Language Acquisition (SLA)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Irwandy

2015-01-01

The aim of this paper is to explore the analysis of Universal Grammar (UG) approach on Second Language Acquisition (SLA). This paper is significant as the sources for teacher or researcher of the second language since this elaboration is deeply focusing on the use of UG on SLA. The method used in this academic writing is inductive method of…

46 CFR 54.15-15 - Relief devices for unfired steam boilers, evaporators, and heat exchangers (modifies UG-126).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

..., and heat exchangers (modifies UG-126). 54.15-15 Section 54.15-15 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF... devices for unfired steam boilers, evaporators, and heat exchangers (modifies UG-126). (a) An approved... more than 6 percent above the safety valve setting. (f) A heat exchanger with liquid in the shell and...

46 CFR 54.15-15 - Relief devices for unfired steam boilers, evaporators, and heat exchangers (modifies UG-126).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

..., and heat exchangers (modifies UG-126). 54.15-15 Section 54.15-15 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF... devices for unfired steam boilers, evaporators, and heat exchangers (modifies UG-126). (a) An approved... more than 6 percent above the safety valve setting. (f) A heat exchanger with liquid in the shell and...

46 CFR 54.15-15 - Relief devices for unfired steam boilers, evaporators, and heat exchangers (modifies UG-126).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

..., and heat exchangers (modifies UG-126). 54.15-15 Section 54.15-15 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF... devices for unfired steam boilers, evaporators, and heat exchangers (modifies UG-126). (a) An approved... more than 6 percent above the safety valve setting. (f) A heat exchanger with liquid in the shell and...

46 CFR 54.15-15 - Relief devices for unfired steam boilers, evaporators, and heat exchangers (modifies UG-126).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

..., and heat exchangers (modifies UG-126). 54.15-15 Section 54.15-15 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF... devices for unfired steam boilers, evaporators, and heat exchangers (modifies UG-126). (a) An approved... more than 6 percent above the safety valve setting. (f) A heat exchanger with liquid in the shell and...

46 CFR 54.15-15 - Relief devices for unfired steam boilers, evaporators, and heat exchangers (modifies UG-126).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

..., and heat exchangers (modifies UG-126). 54.15-15 Section 54.15-15 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF... devices for unfired steam boilers, evaporators, and heat exchangers (modifies UG-126). (a) An approved... more than 6 percent above the safety valve setting. (f) A heat exchanger with liquid in the shell and...

Small battery operated unattended radar sensor for security systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Plummer, Thomas J.; Brady, Stephen; Raines, Robert

2013-06-01

McQ has developed, tested, and is supplying to Unattended Ground Sensor (UGS) customers a new radar sensor. This radar sensor is designed for short range target detection and classification. The design emphasis was to have low power consumption, totally automated operation, a very high probability of detection coupled with a very low false alarm rate, be able to locate and track targets, and have a price compatible with the UGS market. The radar sensor complements traditional UGS sensors by providing solutions for scenarios that are difficult for UGS. The design of this radar sensor and the testing are presented in this paper.

Enhanced technologies for unattended ground sensor systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hartup, David C.

2010-04-01

Progress in several technical areas is being leveraged to advantage in Unattended Ground Sensor (UGS) systems. This paper discusses advanced technologies that are appropriate for use in UGS systems. While some technologies provide evolutionary improvements, other technologies result in revolutionary performance advancements for UGS systems. Some specific technologies discussed include wireless cameras and viewers, commercial PDA-based system programmers and monitors, new materials and techniques for packaging improvements, low power cueing sensor radios, advanced long-haul terrestrial and SATCOM radios, and networked communications. Other technologies covered include advanced target detection algorithms, high pixel count cameras for license plate and facial recognition, small cameras that provide large stand-off distances, video transmissions of target activity instead of still images, sensor fusion algorithms, and control center hardware. The impact of each technology on the overall UGS system architecture is discussed, along with the advantages provided to UGS system users. Areas of analysis include required camera parameters as a function of stand-off distance for license plate and facial recognition applications, power consumption for wireless cameras and viewers, sensor fusion communication requirements, and requirements to practically implement video transmission through UGS systems. Examples of devices that have already been fielded using technology from several of these areas are given.

Reconnaissance of volatile organic compounds in the subsurface at Rutgers University, Busch Campus, Piscataway Township, New Jersey

USGS Publications Warehouse

dePaul, V.T.

1996-01-01

During 1991-92, the U.S. Geological Survey conducted a hydrogeologic reconnaissance at a site near the Rutgers University, Busch Campus, Chemical Engineering building, C-Wing. Results of analyses of the soil-gas samples, which were collected at 43 locations, indicated the presence of volatile organic compounds, primarily carbon tetrachloride, near the C-Wing building and about 550 feet downgradient from and southwest of the C-Wing building. Concentrations of the compound in soil-gas samples were highest (2.1 ug/L (micrograms per liter)) along the southwestern wall of the C-Wing building. Ground-water samples were collected at depths as great as 55 feet from five wells and piezometers near the C-Wing building. Samples collected along the southwestern wall of the building also contained the highest concentrations of volatile organic compounds. Concentrations of carbon tetrachloride in the ground-water samples ranged from < 0.35 ug/L to 3,400 ug/L, and concentrations of tetrachloro- ethylene ranged from < 0.28 ug/L to 85 ug/L. Ground-water samples collected at depths of 55 feet or more from two wells located on the Rutgers University Golf Course about 2,400 feet down- gradient from the C-Wing building contained concentrations of tetrachloroethylene as great as 17.7 ug/L. Water levels measured in six wells and six piezometers indicated that the general flow direction in the shallow part of the aquifer is to the southwest of the C-Wing building. An electrical-resistivity survey was conducted by azimuthal resistivity techniques. The results of the survey were consistent with field measurements, and the dominant vertical fractures near the Busch Campus trend northeast. An electromagnetic survey was ineffective as a result of cultural interferences and could not be used to determine the hydrogeologic characteristics of the site.

Reconstructing Eolian Delivery to the Ulleung Basin (IODP Site U1430) Over the Past 12 Myr

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anderson, C. H.; Dunlea, A. G.; Murray, R. W.; Tada, R.; Alvarez Zarikian, C. A.

2017-12-01

Spring storms associated with the seasonal phases of the East Asian Monsoon (EAM), transport dust seaward and influence marine sedimentation in adjacent ocean regions. Here, we aim to track changes in the intensity of the EAM since the late Miocene by examining the relative proportions and sources of eolian inputs in marine sediment records. We use bulk sediment recovered from Site U1430 in the Ulleung Basin during Integrated Ocean Drilling Program Expedition 346 in 2013 to examine changes in the EAM over the past 12 Myr. Sediment recovered at this site is clayey silt, nannofossil and diatom oozes, claystone, and basal glauonitic sandstone. We analyze major, trace, and rare earth element concentrations for 72 bulk sediment samples analyzed by ICP-ES and ICP-MS, and interpret this dataset using a variety of multivariate statistical partitioning techniques (Q-mode Factor Analyses (QFA), Multiple Linear Regressions) to investigate sediment provenance. Sedimentologic observations and elemental concentrations indicate the presence of biogenic siliceous and carbonaceous components mixed with aluminosilicates. For example, Si/Al (g/g) reaches local maxima at 3 Ma and 10 Ma in several diatom rich sections, and Ca/Al (g/g) exhibits a peak at 0.58 Ma. Other downhole element ratios exhibit subtle variations, including Ti/Al of 0.05 +/- 0.004 g/g, Sc/Al 2 +/- 0.2 ug/g, and Rb/Al 17 +/- 1.5 ug/g. When plotted in ternary diagrams, samples exhibit offset arrays (La-Th-Sc) or multiple clusters (Zr-Nb-Sc) from an Upper Continental Crust and Mid-Ocean Ridge Basalt mixing line. In Th-Cr-Nb, the data exhibit a V-shaped array. The range of geochemical variability suggests that multiple sources of terrigenous matter and/or volcanic ash are being delivered to the site. The multivariate statistics also indicate the mixing of multiple aluminosilicate sources. Focusing on a suite of seven elements (Al, Ti, Sc, Cr, Rb, Th, La), preliminary QFA suggest that five factors are required to explain 99% of the variability in the dataset. Factors group different co-varying elements: Factor 1 Zr and Th, Factor 2 only Cr, Factor 3 Sc and La, Factor 4 Al and Sc, and Factor 5 with Rb and Th. Terrigenous inputs are likely from several sources including loess and other continental crustal material, and will be discussed further.

Identifying predictive motor factors for falls in post-menopausal breast cancer survivors

PubMed Central

Zak, Marek; Biskup, Malgorzata; Macek, Pawel; Krol, Halina; Krupnik, Szymon; Opuchlik, Anna

2017-01-01

Objective Breast cancer treatment, including radical surgery, is also pursued as late as the 7th - 8th decade of women’s lives. Standard physical rehabilitation procedures offered to those women are predominantly focused on attenuating specific functional deficits of the upper limb and trunk. Seldom do they entail any regimens specifically aimed at recovering overall functionality, and reducing exposure to falls-risk. The study aimed to assess potential interrelationships between the self-reported falls, individual functional capabilities and appreciably reducing exposure to falls-risk in a group of post-menopausal, post-surgical breast cancer survivors. Methods The study recruited 102 women (aged 65–79; mean age 70.2), post-surgical breast cancer survivors. The subjects were stratified by age into three groups: Group 1 (65–69 years); Group 2 (70–74 years), and Group 3 (75–79 years). Individual functional capabilities were assessed with Eight-foot up & go test (8UG), chair stand test (CST), and 2-minute step test (2ST). Tinetti POMA test was applied to assess gait and balance disorders. Self-reported falls in the past year were ascertained through a questionnaire. Results Assessment of individual aerobic endurance (2ST) also demonstrated a clear deficit in the mean scores category in all respective age sub-groups, as compared against the reference values. The deficits ranged from 4.86 to 15.90 steps less than the normative values; the oldest subjects demonstrating the largest deficit. The aerobic endurance tests results significantly impacted the ultimate assessment of an individual falls-risk in the oldest group. The analysis of the number of falls sustained within the recent year indicated that 43.67% of the subjects fell victim of such incidents. Conclusion An individual exposure to falls-risk was found to be appreciably more dependent upon individual aerobic endurance rather than overall strength of the lower part of the body in the breast cancer survivors over 75. PMID:28306736

Biological research on a Space Station

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Krikorian, A. D.; Johnson, Catherine C.

1990-01-01

A Space Station can provide reliable, long duration access to ug environments for basic and applied biological research. The uniqueness of access to near-weightless environments to probe fundamental questions of significance to gravitational and Space biologists can be exploited from many vantage points. Access to centrifuge facilities that can provide 1 g and hypo-g controls will permit identification of gravity-dependent or primary effects. Understanding secondary effects of the ug environment as well will allow a fuller exploitation of the Space environment.

Use of the Uteroglobin Platform for the Expression of a Bivalent Antibody against Oncofetal Fibronectin in Escherichia coli

PubMed Central

Ventura, Elisa; Riondato, Mattia; Sambuceti, Gianmario; Salis, Annalisa; Damonte, Gianluca; Cordazzo, Cinzia; Besir, Hüseyin; Pistoia, Vito; Zardi, Luciano

2013-01-01

Escherichia coli is a robust, economic and rapid expression system for the production of recombinant therapeutic proteins. However, the expression in bacterial systems of complex molecules such as antibodies and fusion proteins is still affected by several drawbacks. We have previously described a procedure based on uteroglobin (UG) for the engineering of very soluble and stable polyvalent and polyspecific fusion proteins in mammalian cells (Ventura et al. 2009. J. Biol. Chem. 284∶26646–26654.) Here, we applied the UG platform to achieve the expression in E. coli of a bivalent human recombinant antibody (L19) toward the oncofetal fibronectin (B-FN), a pan-tumor target. Purified bacterial L19-UG was highly soluble, stable, and, in all molecules, the L19 moiety maintained its immunoreactivity. About 50–70% of the molecules were covalent homodimer, however after refolding with the redox couple reduced-glutathione/oxidized-glutathione (GSH/GSSG), 100% of molecules were covalent dimers. Mass spectrometry studies showed that the proteins produced by E. coli and mammalian cells have an identical molecular mass and that both proteins are not glycosylated. L19-UG from bacteria can be freeze-dried without any loss of protein and immunoreactivity. In vivo, in tumor-bearing mice, radio-iodinated L19-UG selectively accumulated in neoplastic tissues showing the same performance of L19-UG from mammalian cells. The UG-platform may represent a general procedure for production of various biological therapeutics in E. coli. PMID:24367567

Mineralogic sources of metals in leachates from the weathering of sedex, massive sulfide, and vein deposit mining wastes

USGS Publications Warehouse

Diehl, S.F.; Hageman, P.L.; Seal, R.R.; Piatak, N.M.; Lowers, H.

2011-01-01

Weathered mine waste consists of oxidized primary minerals and chemically unstable secondary phases that can be sources of readily soluble metals and acid rock drainage. Elevated concentrations of metals such as Cd, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn are observed in deionized water-based leachate solutions derived from complex sedex and Cu-Pb-Zn mine wastes. Leachate (USGS FLT) from the Elizabeth mine, a massive sulfide deposit, has a pH of 3.4 and high concentrations of Al (16700 ug/L), Cu (440 ug/L), and Zn (8620 ug/L). Leachate from the sedex Faro mine has a pH of 3.5 and high concentrations of Al (2040 ug/L), Cu (1930 ug/L), Pb (2080 ug/L), and Zn (52900 ug/L). In contrast, higher-pH leachates produced from tailings of polymetallic vein deposits have order of magnitude lower metal concentrations. These data indicate that highly soluble secondary mineral phases exist at the surface of waste material where the samples were collected. Sulfide minerals from all sites exhibit differential degrees of weathering, from dissolution etched grain rims, to rinds of secondary minerals, to skeletal remnants. These microscale mineral-dissolution textures enhance weathering and metal teachability of waste material. Besides the formation of secondary minerals, sulfide grains from dried tailings samples may be coated by amorphous Fe-Al-Si minerals that also adsorb metals such as Cu, Ni, and Zn.

[Inhibitory effect of kukoamine B on lung inflammatory responses in mice with sepsis].

PubMed

Zhang, Jinli; Qin, Weiting; Lyu, Wanghui; Shen, Weichang; Wang, Xu; Sun, Bingwei

2014-07-01

To investigate the inhibitory effect of kukoamine B (KB) on lung inflammatory responses in mice with sepsis and its possible molecular mechanism. Twenty-eight male mice were randomly divided into control group (n=8), lipopolysaccharide (LPS) group (n=10), and LPS + KB group (n=10). Sepsis model was reproduced by intra-peritoneal injection of 20 mg/kg LPS, while equivalent normal saline was given in control group, and 20 μg/kg KB was injected through caudal vein 4 hours after LPS challenge in LPS + KB group. After 8 hours of LPS challenge, the concentration of LPS in plasma and the activity of myeloperoxidase (MPO) in the lung tissue were determined. The contents of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-1β(IL-1β) in plasma, alveolar lavage fluid and lung tissue homogenates were assessed by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The activation of nuclear factor-ΚB (NF-ΚB) and the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in lung tissue were determined by Western Blot. The pathological changes in lung tissues were observed with hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. The expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) in lung tissue was determined by immunohistochemistry. Compared with control group, the concentration of LPS in plasma (1 155.650±147.149 kEU/L vs. 31.390±18.859 kEU/L), MPO activity (1.177±0.093 U/g vs. 0.775±0.166 U/g), NF-ΚB activity (gray value: 1.557±0.105 vs. 0.824±0.032) and the expression of iNOS (gray value: 0.650±0.129 vs. 0.392±0.097) were significantly increased in LPS group (all P<0.05). After KB intervention, the concentration of LPS (624.461±149.012 kEU/L), MPO activity (0.919±0.023 U/g), NF-ΚB activity (1.127±0.074) and the expression of iNOS (0.425±0.066) were significantly lowered (all P<0.05). Compared with control group, the contents of TNF-α (47.325±13.864 ng/L vs. 6.534±0.544 ng/L, 13.382±2.231 ng/L vs. 3.748±0.692 ng/L, 31.127±7.399 ng/L vs. 14.948±4.673 ng/L) and IL-1β (74.329±11.890 ng/L vs. 29.921±6.487 ng/L, 9.422±2.674 ng/L vs. 1.105±0.364 ng/L, 528.509±32.073 ng/L vs. 109.945±13.561 ng/L) in plasma, alveolar lavage fluid and lung tissue homogenates were obviously enhanced in LPS group (all P<0.05). With KB intervention, the contents of TNF-α (20.331±7.789 ng/L, 7.145±1.202 ng/L, 15.966±2.946 ng/L) and IL-1β (57.707±8.098 ng/L, 2.212±0.878 ng/L, 426.154±11.270 ng/L) were markedly reduced (plasma TNF-α: F=16.052, P=0.002; IL-1β: F=20.649, P=0.000; lung tissue homogenates TNF-α: F=31.134, P=0.001; IL-1β: F=22.792, P=0.002; alveolar lavage fluid TNF-α: F=10.013, P=0.009; IL-1β: F=319.857, P=0.000). In addition, leukocyte infiltration to the lung tissue was attenuated, and the expression of ICAM-1 was reduced by KB in histological examination. KB, as a neutralizer of LPS, can inhibit the release of inflammatory mediators, reduce the pulmonary inflammatory response and protect the function of lung in septic mice.

Lipid biomarker patterns of methane-derived carbonates from Dongsha area, the northern of South China Sea

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, X.; Lei, J.; Yang, K.; Fang, Y.

2012-12-01

Carbonate and sediment samples collected from the Dongsha area the South China by TV-grab. The δ13C values of the carbonate indicate that the carbonate carbon is mainly derived from the oxidation of methane. According to the δ13C value of two groups carbonates could be divided: Group1 (G1) is 13C-depleted as reported previously, the δ13C value lighter than -50‰ PDB; group2 (G2) is enriched in 13C relatively, the δ13C value is around -30‰PDB. The δ13C value of sediments associated with carbonate varying from -19.2 to -30.4‰PDB. G1 and G2 have similar n-alkanes distribution and with 13C-depleted PMI, but glycerol dialkyl glycerol tetraethers (GDGTs) patterns obviously different. The G1 with the higher GDGTs concentration, up to 0.37 ug/g (dry weight), and the isoprenoid GDGTs is dominantly, with a acyclic > monocyclic > bicyclic > tricyclic > tetracyclic biphytane distribution, the branch GDGTs is less than 2%. The G2 with the quite lower GDGTs concentration, varying from 0.025~0.063ug/g (dry weight), the isoprenoid GDGTs content is less than 70%, with a acyclic > tetracyclic > bicyclic > monocyclic > tricyclic biphytane distribution, the branch GDGT is more than 30%. The sediment associated with carbonate has the similar GDGTs pattern with the G2, but the GDGTs concentration is between G1 and G2. The molecular structure and their carbon isotopic composition suggest that the organism mainly derived from methane oxidizing archaea and more carbonate precipitation by AOM within the G1 carbonates. Meanwhile, partly organism derived from crenachaeol and terrestrial, some carbonate precipitation originated from water column within the G2 carbonates. The G2 carbonates contain the similar biomarkers as found in nearby sediments, suggesting that the organisms associated with carbonate precipitation are the similar

Radar Observations of Near-Earth Asteroids 2000 UG11 and 2000 UK11

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nolan, M. C.; Margot, J.-L.; Howell, E. S.; Benner, L. A. M.; Ostro, S. J.; Jurgens, R. F.; Giorgini, J. D.; Campbell, D. B.

2001-01-01

Two small near-Earth asteroids, 2000 UG11 and 2000 UK11 were observed using the Arecibo and Goldstone radars a week after their discovery. 2000 UK11 is a rapidly rotating (3 min) approximately 30 m solid body. 2000 UG11 is two bodies separated by at least 300 m Additional information is contained in the original extended abstract..

Ultrasonic destruction of albumin microbubbles enhances gene transfection and expression in cardiac myocytes.

PubMed

Wang, Guo-zhong; Liu, Jing-hua; Lü, Shu-zheng; Lü, Yun; Guo, Cheng-jun; Zhao, Dong-hui; Fang, Dong-ping; He, Dong-fang; Zhou, Yuan; Ge, Chang-jiang

2011-05-01

It has been proven that ultrasonic destruction of microbubbles can enhance gene transfection efficiency into the noncardiac cells, but there are few reports about cardiac myocytes. Moreover, the exact mechanisms are not yet clear; whether the characteristic of microbubbles can affect the gene transfection efficiency or not is still controversial. This study was designed to investigate whether the ultrasound destruction of gene-loaded microbubbles could enhance the plasmids carried reporter gene transfection in primary cultured myocardial cell, and evaluate the effects of microbubbles characteristics on the transgene expression in cardiac myocytes. The β-galactosidase plasmids attached to the two types of microbubbles, air-contained sonicated dextrose albumin (ASDA) and perfluoropropane-exposed sonicated dextrose albumin (PESDA) were prepared. The gene transfection into cardiac myocytes was performed in vitro by naked plasmids, ultrasound exposure, ultrasonic destruction of gene-loaded microbubbles and calcium phosphate precipitation, and then the gene expression and cell viability were analyzed. The ultrasonic destruction of gene-loaded microbubbles enhanced gene expression in cardiac myocytes compared with naked plasmid transfection ((51.95 ± 2.41) U/g or (29.28 ± 3.65) U/g vs. (0.84 ± 0.21) U/g, P < 0.01), and ultrasonic destruction PESDA resulted in more significant gene expression than ASDA ((51.95 ± 2.41) U/g vs. (29.28 ± 3.65) U/g, P < 0.05). Ultrasonic destruction of microbubbles during calcium phosphate precipitation gene transfection enhanced β-galactosidase activity nearly 8-fold compared with calcium phosphate precipitation gene transfection alone ((111.35 ± 11.21) U/g protein vs. (14.13 ± 2.58) U/g protein, P < 0.01). Even 6 hours after calcium phosphate precipitation gene transfection, ultrasound-mediated microbubbles destruction resulted in more intense gene expression ((35.63 ± 7.65) U/g vs. (14.13 ± 2.58) U/g, P < 0.05). Ultrasonic destruction of microbubbles might be a promising method for the delivery of non-viral DNA into cardiac myocytes, and the gene tranfection is related to the characteristics of microbubbles.

Criterion-Referenced Values of Grip Strength and Usual Gait Speed Using Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Disability as the Criterion.

PubMed

Lee, Meng-Chih; Hsu, Chih-Cheng; Tsai, Yi-Fen; Chen, Ching-Yu; Lin, Cheng-Chieh; Wang, Ching-Yi

Current evidence suggests that grip strength and usual gait speed (UGS) are important predictors of instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) disability. Knowing the optimum cut points of these tests for discriminating people with and without IADL disability could help clinicians or researchers to better interpret the test results and make medical decisions. The purpose of this study was to determine the cutoff values of grip strength and UGS for best discriminating community-dwelling older adults with and without IADL disability, separately for men and women, and to investigate their association with IADL disability. We conducted secondary data analysis on a national dataset collected in the Sarcopenia and Translational Aging Research in Taiwan (START). The data used in this study consisted of health data of 2420 community-dwelling older adults 65 years and older with no history of stroke and with complete data. IADL disability was defined as at least 1 IADL item scored as "need help" or "unable to perform." Receiver operating characteristics analysis was used to estimate the optimum grip strength and UGS cut points for best discriminating older adults with/without IADL disability. The association between each physical performance (grip strength and UGS) and IADL disability was assessed with odds ratios (ORs). With IADL disability as the criterion, the optimal cutoff values of grip strength were 28.7 kg for men and 16.0 kg for women, and those for UGS were 0.76 m/s for men and 0.66 m/s for women. The grip strength test showed satisfactory discriminant validity (area under the curve > 0.7) in men and a strong association with IADL disability (OR > 4). Our cut points using IADL disability as the criterion were close to those indicating frailty or sarcopenia. Our reported cutoffs can serve as criterion-referenced values, along with those previously determined using different indicators, and provide important landmarks on the performance continua of older adults' grip strength and UGS. These landmarks could be useful in interpreting test results, monitoring changes in performance, and identifying individuals requiring timely intervention. For identifying older adults at risk of IADL disability, grip strength is superior to UGS.

Neutron stars, ungravity, and the I-Love-Q relations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mariji, Hodjat; Bertolami, Orfeu

2017-10-01

We study neutron stars (NSs) in an ungravity (UG) inspired model. We examine the UG effects on the static properties of the selected NSs, in different mass and radius regimes, i.e., ultralow, moderate, and ultrahigh mass NSs, using a polytropic equation of state approach. Based on the observational data, we obtain bounds on the characteristic length and scaling dimension of the UG model. Furthermore, we obtain dynamic properties, such as inertial moment (I), Love number (Love), and quadrupole moment (Q) of a slowly rotating NS in the presence of the exterior gravity and ungravity fields. The UG model is also examined with respect to the I-Love-Q universal relation.

Evidence for Increased Beta-Adrenoreceptor Responsiveness Induced by 14 Days of Simulated Microgravity in Humans

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Convertino, Victor A.; Polet, Jill L.; Engelke, Keith A.; Hoffler, G. W.; Lane, Lynda D.

1996-01-01

We studied hemodynamic responses to alpha and beta receptor agonists in 8 healthy men ( 38+- 2 yrs) before and after 14 days of 6 degree head-down tilt (HDT) to test the hypothesis that increased adrenergic responsiveness is induced by prolonged exposure to microgravity. Immediately following a 30-min baseline period, a steady-state infusion of isoproterenol (ISO) was used to assess beta 1- and beta 2-adrenergic responsiveness. ISO was infused at three graded constant rates of 0.005, 0.01 and 0.02 ug/kg/min. After heart rate and blood pressure had been allowed to return to baseline levels following ISO infusion graded infusion of phenylephrine (PE) was used to assess responsiveness of alpha I-vascular receptors. PE was infused at three graded constant rates of 0.25, 0.50 and 1.00 ug/kg/min. Each infusion interval for both drugs was 9 min. During the infusions, constant monitoring of beat-to-beat blood pressure and heart rate was performed and leg blood flow was measured with occlusion plethysmography at each infusion level. The slopes calculated from linear regressions between ISO and PE doses and changes in heart rate, blood pressure, and leg vascular resistance for each subject were used to represent alpha- and beta- adrenoreceptor responsiveness. Fourteen days HDT increased the slopes of heart rate (1056 +- 107 to 1553 +- 83 beats/ug/kg/min; P= 0.014) and vasodilation (-469ft +- 111 to -l446 +- 309 PRU/ug/kg/min; P =0.0224) to ISO infusion. There was no alteration in blood pressure or vascular resistance responses to PE infusion after HDT. Our results provide evidence that microgravity causes selective increases in beta 1- and beta 2-adrenergic responsiveness without affecting alpha 1-vascular responses.

Hydrologic and Water-Quality Conditions During Restoration of the Wood River Wetland, Upper Klamath River Basin, Oregon, 2003-05

USGS Publications Warehouse

Carpenter, Kurt D.; Snyder, Daniel T.; Duff, John H.; Triska, Frank J.; Lee, Karl K.; Avanzino, Ronald J.; Sobieszczyk, Steven

2009-01-01

Restoring previously drained wetlands is a strategy currently being used to improve water quality and decrease nutrient loading into Upper Klamath Lake, Oregon. In this 2003-05 study, ground- and surface-water quality and hydrologic conditions were characterized in the Wood River Wetland. Nitrogen and phosphorus levels, primarily as dissolved organic nitrogen and ammonium (NH4) and soluble reactive phosphorus (SRP), were high in surface waters. Dissolved organic carbon concentrations also were elevated in surface water, with median concentrations of 44 and 99 milligrams of carbon per liter (mg-C/L) in the North and South Units of the Wood River Wetland, respectively, reaching a maximum of 270 mg-C/L in the South Unit in late autumn. Artesian well water produced NH4 and SRP concentrations of about 6,000 micrograms per liter (ug/L), and concentrations of 36,500 ug-N/L NH4 and 4,110 ug-P/L SRP in one 26-28 ft deep piezometer well. Despite the high ammonium concentrations, the nitrate levels were moderate to low in wetland surface and ground waters. The surface-water concentrations of NH4 and SRP increased in spring and summer, outpacing those for chloride (a conservative tracer), indicative of evapoconcentration. In-situ chamber experiments conducted in June and August 2005 indicated a positive flux of NH4 and SRP from the wetland sediments. Potential sources of NH4 and SRP include diffusion of nutrients from decomposed peat, decomposing aquatic vegetation, or upwelling ground water. In addition to these inputs, evapoconcentration raised surface-water solute concentrations to exceedingly high values by the end of summer. The increase was most pronounced in the South Unit, where specific conductance reached 2,500 uS/cm and median concentrations of total nitrogen and total phosphorus reached 18,000-36,500 ug-N/L and about 18,000-26,000 ug-P/L, respectively. Water-column SRP and total phosphorus levels decreased during autumn and winter following inputs of irrigation water and precipitation, which have lower nutrient concentrations. The SRP concentrations, however, decreased faster than the dilution rate alone, possibly due to precipitation of phosphorus with iron, manganese, or calcium. The high concentrations of dissolved nitrogen and phosphorus during the growing season give rise to a rich plant community in the wetland consisting of emergent and submergent macrophytes and algae including phytoplankton and benthic and epiphytic algae that have pronounced effects on dissolved oxygen (DO) and pH. Midday readings of surface-water DO during summer often were supersaturated (as much as 310 percent saturation) with elevated pH (as much as 9.2 units), indicative of high rates of photosynthesis. Minimum DO concentrations in the shallow ground-water piezometer wells were 0.4 mg/L in the North Unit and 0.8 mg/L in the South Unit during summer, which is probably low enough to support microbial denitrification. Denitrification was confirmed during in-situ experiments conducted at the sediment-water interface, but rates were low due to low background nitrate (NO3). Nevertheless, denitrification (and plant uptake) likely contribute to low nitrate levels. Another possible cause of low nitrate levels is dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonia (DNRA), a microbial process that converts and decreases nitrate to ammonia. DNRA explains the excess ammonia production measured in the chambers treated with nitrate. Surface-water levels and standing surface-water volume in the Wood River Wetland reached a maximum in early spring, inundating 80-90 percent of the wetland. Surface-water levels and standing volume then declined reaching a minimum in August through November, when the South Unit was only 10 percent inundated and the North Unit was nearly dry. The shallow ground-water levels followed a trend similar to surface-water levels and indicated a strong upward gradient. A monthly water budget was developed individually for the North

Differential response of oyster shell powder on enzyme profile and nutritional value of oyster mushroom Pleurotus florida PF05.

PubMed

Naraian, Ram; Narayan, Om Prakash; Srivastava, Jatin

2014-01-01

Oyster mushroom Pleurotus florida was cultivated on different combinations of wheat straw (WS) as basal substrate and oyster shell powder (OSP) supplement. The OSP supplementation considerably responded to different cultivation phases. The mycelium grew fast and showed rapid growth rate (8.91 mmd(-1)) in WS + OSP (97 + 3) combination while WS + OSP (92 + 8) showed maximum laccase (3.133 U/g) and Mn peroxidase (MnP) activities (0.091 U/g). The climax level of laccase (5.433 U/g) and MnP (0.097 U/g) was recorded during fruit body initiation in WS + OSP (97 + 3) and WS + OSP (98 + 2) combinations, respectively. The WS + OSP (97 + 3) combination represented the best condition for mushroom cultivation and produced the highest biological efficiency (147%). In addition, protein and lipid contents in fruit bodies were slightly improved in response to OSP. The carbohydrate was significantly increased by raising concentration of OSP. The highest values of protein, carbohydrate, and lipid noted were 31.3 μg/g, 0.0639 (g/g), and 0.373 (g/g) correspondingly. Conclusively it was evident that lower concentrations of OSP acted positively and relatively to higher concentrations and improved nutritional content which may suitably be used to enhance both yield and nutritional values of mushroom.

Oral fish oil positively influences nutritional-inflammatory risk in patients with haematological malignancies during chemotherapy with an impact on long-term survival: a randomised clinical trial.

PubMed

Chagas, T R; Borges, D S; de Oliveira, P F; Mocellin, M C; Barbosa, A M; Camargo, C Q; Del Moral, J Â G; Poli, A; Calder, P C; Trindade, E B S M; Nunes, E A

2017-12-01

Studies suggest that the ingestion of fish oil (FO), a source of the omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), can reduce the deleterious side-effects of chemotherapy. The aim of this randomised clinical trial was to evaluate the effect of supplementation with oral FO for 9 weeks on nutritional parameters and inflammatory nutritional risk in patients with haematological malignancies during the beginning of chemotherapy. Twenty-two patients with leukaemia or lymphoma were randomised to the unsupplemented group (UG) (n = 13) or supplemented group (SG) (n = 9). SG received 2 g/day of fish oil for 9 weeks. Nutritional status, serum acute-phase proteins and plasma fatty acids were evaluated before (T0) and after (T1) the intervention period. Data were analysed using two models; model 1, comprising data from all patients included in the study, and model 2, comprising data from UG patients with no increase in the proportions of EPA and DHA in plasma and data from SG patients showing an at least 100% increase in plasma EPA and DHA. SG showed an increased plasma proportion of EPA and DHA in both models. In model 2, C-reactive protein (CRP) and CRP/albumin ratio showed larger reductions in the SG. Overall long-term survival in both models (465 days after the start of the chemotherapy) was higher in the group ingesting fish oil (P < 0.05). These findings indicate an improved nutritional-inflammatory risk and potential effects on long-term survival in patients with haematological malignancies supplemented with FO during the beginning of chemotherapy. © 2017 The British Dietetic Association Ltd.

Desferrioxamine in warm reperfusion media decreases liver injury aggravated by cold storage

PubMed Central

Arthur, Peter G; Niu, Xian-Wa; Huang, Wen-Hua; DeBoer, Bastiaan; Lai, Ching Tat; Rossi, Enrico; Joseph, John; Jeffrey, Gary P

2013-01-01

AIM: To evaluate whether desferrioxamine decreases ischemia and perfusion injury aggravated by cold storage (CS) in a rat liver perfusion model. METHODS: Isolated rat livers were kept in CS in University of Wisconsin Solution for 20 h at 4 °C, then exposed to 25 min of warm ischemia (WI) at 37 °C followed by 2 h of warm perfusion (WP) at 37 °C with oxygenated (95% oxygen and 5% carbon dioxide) Krebs-Henseleit buffer. Desferrioxamine (DFO), an iron chelator, was added at different stages of storage, ischemia and perfusion: in CS only, in WI only, in WP only, in WI and perfusion, or in all stages. Effluent samples were collected after CS and after WI. Perfusate samples and bile were collected every 30 min (0, 0.5, 1, 1.5 and 2 h) during liver perfusion. Cellular injury was assessed by the determination of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in the effluent and perfusate samples. Total iron was analysed in the perfusate samples. After WP, the liver was collected for the determination of liver swelling (wet to dry ratio) and liver morphological examination (hematoxylin and eosin staining). RESULTS: Increased CS time caused increased liver dysfunction during WP. After 2 h of WP, liver injury was indicated by increased release of AST (0.5 h CS: 9.4 ± 2.2 U/g liver vs 20 h CS: 45.9 ± 10.8 U/g liver, P < 0.05) and LDH (0.5 h CS: 59 ± 14 U/g liver vs 20 h CS: 297 ± 71 U/g liver, P < 0.05). There was an associated increase in iron release into the perfusate (0.5 h CS: 0.11 ± 0.03 μmoL/g liver vs 20 h CS: 0.58 ± 0.10 μmoL/g liver, P < 0.05) and reduction in bile flow (0.5 h CS: 194 ± 12 μL/g vs 20 h CS: 71 ± 8 μL/g liver, P < 0.05). When DFO was added during WI and WP following 20 h of CS, release of iron into the perfusate was decreased (DFO absent 0.58 ± 0.10 μmoL/g liver vs DFO present 0.31 ± 0.06 μmoL/g liver, P < 0.05), and liver function substantially improved with decreased release of AST (DFO absent 45.9 ± 10.8 U/g liver vs DFO present 8.1 ± 0.9 U/g liver, P < 0.05) and LDH (DFO absent 297 ± 71 U/g liver vs DFO present 56 ± 7 U/g liver, P < 0.05), and increased bile flow (DFO absent 71 ± 8 μL/g liver vs DFO present 237 ± 36 μL/g liver, P < 0.05). DFO was also shown to improve liver morphology after WP. Cellular injury (the release of LDH and AST) was significantly reduced with the addition of DFO in CS medium but to a lesser extent compared to the addition of DFO in WP or WI and perfusion. There was no effect on liver swelling or bile flow when DFO was only added to the CS medium. CONCLUSION: DFO added during WI and perfusion decreased liver perfusion injury aggravated by extended CS. PMID:23429835

Mass spectrometry-based quantitation of Her2 in gastroesophageal tumor tissue: Comparison to IHC and FISH

PubMed Central

Catenacci, Daniel V.T.; Liao, Wei-Li; Zhao, Lei; Whitcomb, Emma; Henderson, Les; O’Day, Emily; Xu, Peng; Thyparambil, Sheeno; Krizman, David; Bengali, Kathleen; Uzzell, Jamar; Darfler, Marlene; Cecchi, Fabiola; Blackler, Adele; Bang, Yung-Jue; Hart, John; Xiao, Shu-Yuan; Lee, Sang Mee; Burrows, Jon; Hembrough, Todd

2015-01-01

Background Trastuzumab showed survival benefit for Her2-positive gastroesophageal cancers (GEC). Immunohistochemistry (IHC) and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) currently determine eligibility for trastuzumab-based therapy. However, these low-throughput assays often produce discordant or equivocal results. Methods We developed a targeted proteomic assay based on selected reaction monitoring mass spectrometry (SRM-MS) and quantified levels (amol/ug) of Her2-SRM protein in cell lines (n=27) and GEC tissues (n=139). We compared Her2-SRM protein expression with IHC/FISH, seeking to determine optimal SRM protein expression cut-offs to identify HER2 gene amplification. Results After demonstrating assay development, precision, and stability, Her2-SRM protein measurement was observed to be highly concordant with HER2/CEP17 ratio, particularly in a multivariate regression model adjusted for SRM-expression of Met, Egfr, Her3, and HER2-heterogeneity covariates, and their interactions (cell lines r2=0.9842; FFPE r2=0.7643). In GEC tissues, Her2-SRM protein was detected in 71.2% of cases. ROC curves demonstrated Her2-SRM protein levels to have high specificity (100%) at an upper-level cut-off of >750 amol/μg and sensitivity (75%) at lower-level cut-off of <450 amol/ug to identify HER2 FISH amplified tumors. An ‘equivocal-zone’ of 450-750 amol/ug of Her2-SRM protein was analogous to ’IHC2+#x2019;, but represented fewer cases (9-16% of cases versus 36-41%). Conclusions Compared to IHC, targeted SRM-Her2 proteomics provided more objective and quantitative Her2 expression with excellent HER2/CEP17 FISH correlation and fewer equivocal cases. Along with the multiplex capability for other relevant oncoproteins, these results demonstrated a refined HER2 protein expression assay for clinical application. PMID:26581548

EFFECTS OF PCB (AROCLORR 1254) ON NON-SPECIFIC IMMUNE PARAMETERS IN RHESUS (MACACA MULATA) MONKEYS.

EPA Science Inventory

The effects of low level chronic polychlorinated biphenyl - Aroclor 1254 - (PCB) exposure were investigated on nonspecific immune parameters in female rhesus (Macaca mulatta) monkeys. Five groups of monkeys were orally administered PCB at concentrations of 0, 5, 20, 40, or 80 ug/...

Multimodal Sensor Fusion for Personnel Detection

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-07-01

video ). Efficacy of UGS systems is often limited by high false alarm rates because the onboard data processing algorithms may not be able to correctly...humans) and animals (e.g., donkeys , mules, and horses). The humans walked alone and in groups with and without backpacks; the animals were led by their

Rates of BTEX Biodegradation under Nitrate Reducing Conditions in Wetland Sediments Impacted by Contaminated Groundwater

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Olson, L. K.; McGuire, J. T.; Cozzarelli, I.; Smith, E. W.; Kneeshaw, T.

2010-12-01

Biodegradation rates are often controlled by dynamic interactions that occur at mixing interfaces between water masses of differing redox state. This study seeks to understand the controls on rates of BTEX (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and m,p,o-xylenes) degradation at a mixing interface by using in-situ experiments to simulate contaminated aquifer water containing nitrate discharging to a methanogenic wetland. BTEX biodegradation was evaluated during “dry” conditions (2009) and “wet” conditions (2010) in a shallow wetland near Bemidji, MN using innovative in-situ microcosms (ISMs) to measure rates of change over 8 weeks (2009) and 9 weeks (2010). ISM samplers contained an inner chamber filled with wetland sediments that were allowed to incubate for 2 weeks. This chamber was then closed to the surrounding environment and amended with test solution composed of contaminated groundwater augmented with tracer (bromide), nitrate and BTEX spike. Analysis of ISM sediments suggests that nitrate reduction and biodegradation rates are a function of both mineralogical and microbiological controls. Loss of nitrate, interpreted as nitrate reduction, was observed in both the dry and wet years with reduction slightly faster in the dry year (2.21mg/L/day versus 1.59 mg/L/day). Nitrate reduction was likely coupled to oxidation of various electron donors present in the system, including not only BTEX but also naturally occurring labile organic matter (ex. acetate) and inorganic electron donors (ex. Fe2+). BTEX degradation rates were considerably higher during the “wet” year than the “dry” year, with the fastest rates occurring immediately following test solution additions. For example, in the first 2 days of the “wet” ISM experiments degradation rates were 57.97ug/L/day for Benzene, 73.24ug/L/day for Toluene, 12.37ug/L/day for Ethyl Benzene and 85.61ug/L/day for Xylene compared to an ISM from the dry year which had slower degradation rates of 2.83ug/L/day for Benzene, 0.171ug/L/day for Toluene, 0.181ug/L/day for Ethyl Benzene and 0.169ug/L/day for Xylene. This difference in degradation rates may be explained by greater competition for electron donors during the dry year, when, for example, concentrations of naturally occurring organic acids were higher. During the wet year, the highest acetate value was 14.04 mg/L, while during the dry year the highest value was 0.13mg/L. These results suggest that an understanding of the hydro-biogeochemisty of the system as a whole is critical to predicting biodegradation rates of BTEX in the environment.

[Effect of red maca (Lepidium meyenii) on INF-γ levels in ovariectomized rats].

PubMed

Leiva-Revilla, Johanna; Guerra-Castañon, Félix; Olcese-Mori, Paola; Lozada, Iván; Rubio, Julio; Gonzales, Carla; Gonzales, Gustavo F

2014-01-01

Compare the effect of different doses of red maca on gamma interferon (IFN-γ) levels in ovariectomized rats (OVX). Adult female rats were randomly divided into the following six groups: Group 1: pseudo-ovariectomized rats (PO); Group 2: OVX rats; Group 3: OVX rats treated with 4 ug/kg estradiol; and Group 4, 5 and 6: OVX rats treated with red maca extracts with 2.15, 4.3 and 8.6 mg polyphenols/body weight kilogram, respectively. OVX rats showed low levels of IFN-γ compared to PO rats. Estradiol and red maca reversed the effect of ovariectomy on the IFN-γ levels. A positive dose-response effect of red maca on IFN-γ levels was shown (r = 0.57, p <0.05). Red maca administration increases levels of IFN-γ in ovariectomized rats.

Influence of ultrasound or halogen light on microleakage and hardness of enamel adjacent to glass ionomer cement.

PubMed

Guglielmi, Camila Almeida Brandão; Mohana, Anice; Hesse, Daniela; Lenzi, Tathiane Larissa; Bonini, Gabriela Cunha; Raggio, Daniela Prócida

2012-03-01

The use of external sources of energy may accelerate the setting rate of glass ionomer cements (GICs) allowing better initial mechanical properties. To investigate the influence of ultrasound and halogen light on the microleakage and hardness of enamel adjacent to GIC restorations, after artificial caries challenge. Cavities were prepared in 60 primary canines, restored with GIC, and randomly distributed into three groups: control group (CG), light group (LG) - irradiation with a halogen light-curing unit for 60s, and ultrasonic group (UG) - application of ultrasonic scaler device for 15s. All specimens were then submitted to a cariogenic challenge in a pH cycling model. Half of sample in each group were immersed in methylene blue for 4h and sectioned for dye penetration analysis. The remaining specimens were submitted to Knoop cross-sectional microhardness assessments, and mineral changes were calculated for adjacent enamel. Data were compared using Kruskal-Wallis test and two-way ANOVA with 5% significance. Higher dye penetration was observed for the UG (P<0.01). No significant mineral changes were observed between groups (P=0.844). The use of halogen light-curing unit does not seem to interfere with the properties of GICs, whereas the use of ultrasound can affect its marginal sealing. © 2011 The Authors. International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry © 2011 BSPD, IAPD and Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Mapping resistance to the Ug99 race group of the stem rust pathogen in a spring wheat landrace.

PubMed

Babiker, E M; Gordon, T C; Chao, S; Newcomb, M; Rouse, M N; Jin, Y; Wanyera, R; Acevedo, M; Brown-Guedira, G; Williamson, S; Bonman, J M

2015-04-01

A new gene for Ug99 resistance from wheat landrace PI 374670 was detected on the long arm of chromosome 7A. Wheat landrace PI 374670 has seedling and field resistance to stem rust caused by Puccinia graminis f. sp tritici Eriks. & E. Henn (Pgt) race TTKSK. To elucidate the inheritance of resistance, 216 BC1F2 families, 192 double haploid (DH) lines, and 185 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) were developed by crossing PI 374670 and the susceptible line LMPG-6. The parents and progeny were evaluated for seedling resistance to Pgt races TTKSK, MCCFC, and TPMKC. The DH lines were tested in field stem rust nurseries in Kenya and Ethiopia. The DH lines were genotyped with the 90K wheat iSelect SNP genotyping platform. Goodness-of-fit tests indicated that a single dominant gene in PI 374670 conditioned seedling resistance to the three Pgt races. The seedling resistance locus mapped to the long arm of chromosome 7A and this result was verified in the RIL population screened with the flanking SNP markers using KASP assays. In the same region, a major QTL for field resistance was detected in a 7.7 cM interval and explained 34-54 and 29-36% of the variation in Kenya and Ethiopia, respectively. Results from tests with specific Pgt races and the csIH81 marker showed that the resistance was not due to Sr22. Thus, a new stem rust resistance gene or allele, either closely linked or allelic to Sr15, is responsible for the seedling and field resistance of PI 374670 to Ug99.

Chemical and Molecular Biological Aspects of Alkylhydrazine-Induced Carcinogenesis in Human Cells in Vitro

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-09-01

methylazozy- methanol acetate ( MAMA ), proved to be a potent transformer as well as a carcinogen. The obvious conclusion is that the human cell culture...Negative MMH 62 pg/ml Negative [ AOM Negative at 100 1g/ml Not tested MAMA 3.6 ug/ml 900 2/16’ Tetrazine 50 Ug/ml Positive. No data yet. [j Phenylhydrazine...the tumor incidence data for MAMA is not com-B parable to those of UDMH and Hz. I 11-% C. Conclusion: In our attempts,to correlate toxicity and/or

Technical Evaluation Report of the Aerospace Medical Panel Working Group WG-08 on Evaluation of Methods to Assess Workload.

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-11-01

Occlusion 3.1 Single Measures 3. Primary Task 3.2 Multiple Measures 3.3 Math Modeling 4.1.1 PFF 4.1.2 CSR 4.1.3 M,0 4.1.4 MW 4.1.5 UG3 4.1.6 ZCP 4.1 Single... modeling methodology; and (4) validation of the analytic/predictive methodology In a system design, development, and test effort." Chapter 9: "A central...2.3 Occlusion P S P S S P -P 3.1 Single Measure-Primary S S S S S S S 3.2 Multiple Measure-Primary S S IS S S S S K 3.3 Math Modeling ~ 4.1.7 Eye and

Hazard evaluation of chemicals that cause accumulation of alpha 2u-globulin, hyaline droplet nephropathy, and tubule neoplasia in the kidneys of male rats.

PubMed Central

Hard, G C; Rodgers, I S; Baetcke, K P; Richards, W L; McGaughy, R E; Valcovic, L R

1993-01-01

This review paper examines the relationship between chemicals inducing excessive accumulation of alpha 2u-globulin (alpha 2u-g) (CIGA) in hyaline droplets in male rat kidneys and the subsequent development of nephrotoxicity and renal tubule neoplasia in the male rat. This dose-responsive hyaline droplet accumulation distinguishes CIGA carcinogens from classical renal carcinogens. CIGA carcinogens also do not appear to react with DNA and are generally negative in short-term tests for genotoxicity, CIGA or their metabolites bind specifically, but reversibly, to male rat alpha 2u-g. The resulting complex appears to be more resistant to hydrolytic degradation in the proximal tubule than native, unbound alpha 2u-g. Single cell necrosis of the tubule epithelium, with associated granular cast formation and papillary mineralization, is followed by sustained regenerative tubule cell proliferation, foci of tubule hyperplasia in the convoluted proximal tubules, and renal tubule tumors. Although structurally similar proteins have been detected in other species, including humans, renal lesions characteristic of alpha 2u-g nephropathy have not been observed. Epidemiologic investigation has not specifically examined the CIGA hypothesis for humans. Based on cancer bioassays, hormone manipulation studies, investigations in an alpha 2u-g-deficient strain of rat, and other laboratory data, an increased proliferative response caused by chemically induced cytotoxicity appears to play a role in the development of renal tubule tumors in male rats. Thus, it is reasonable to suggest that the renal effects induced in male rats by chemicals causing alpha 2u-g accumulation are unlikely to occur in humans. Images FIGURE 1. FIGURE 2. FIGURE 3. FIGURE 4. FIGURE 5. FIGURE 6. FIGURE 7. FIGURE 8. FIGURE 9. FIGURE 10. FIGURE 11. FIGURE 12. FIGURE 13. PMID:7686485

Concentrations and transport of atrazine in the Delaware River-Perry Lake system, northeast Kansas, July 1993 through September 1995

USGS Publications Warehouse

Pope, L.M.; Brewer, L.D.; Foley, G.A.; Morgan, S.C.

1996-01-01

A study of the distribution and transport of atrazine in surface water in the 1,117 square-mile Delaware River Basin in northeast Kansas was conducted from July 1992 through September 1995. The purpose of this report is to present information to assess the present (1992-95) conditions and possible future changes in the distribution and magnitude of atrazine concentrations, loads, and yields spatially, temporally, and in relation to hydrologic conditions and land-use characteristics. A network of 11 stream-monitoring and sample-collection sites was established within the basin. Stream- water samples were collected during a wide range of hydrologic conditions throughout the study. Nearly 5,000 samples were analyzed by enzyme- linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for triazine herbicide concentrations. Daily mean triazine herbicide concentrations were calculated for all sampling sites and subsequently used to estimate daily mean atrazine concentrations with a linear- regression relation between ELISA-derived triazine concentrations and atrazine concentrations determined by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry for 141 dual-analyzed surface-water samples. During May, June, and July, time-weighted, daily mean atrazine concentrations in streams in the Delaware River Basin commonly exceeded the value of 3.0-ug/L (micrograms per liter) annual mean Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for drinking-water supplies. Time-weighted, daily mean concentrations equal to or greater than 20 ug/L were not uncommon. However, most time- weighted, daily mean concentrations were less than 1.0 ug/L from August through April. The largest time-weighted, monthly mean atrazine concentrations occurred during May, June, and July. Most monthly mean concentrations between August and April were less than 0.50 ug/L. Large differences were documented in monthly mean concentrations within the basin. Sites receiving runoff from the northern and northeastern parts of the Delaware River Basin had the largest monthly and annual mean atrazine concentrations. Time- weighted, annual mean atrazine concentrations did not exceed the MCL in water from any sampling site for either the 1993 or 1994 crop years (April-March); however, concentrations were during 1994 than during 1993. Time-weighted, annual mean concentrations in water from among the 11 sampling sites during the 1993 crop year ranged from 0.27 to 1.5 ug/L and from 0.36 to 2.8 ug/L during the 1994 crop year. Furthermore, concentrations in samples from the outflow of Perry Lake were larger during the first 6 months of the 1995 crop year than during the previous year. Flow-weighted, annual mean atrazine concentrations were larger than time-weighted, annual mean concentrations in water from all sampling sites upstream of Perry Lake, and samples from several sites had concentrations were substantially larger than the MCL. This difference explained why time-weighted, annual mean concentrations in the outflow of Perry Lake were larger than corresponding time-weighted concentrations in water from sampling sites upstream of Perry Lake. Flow- weighted, annual mean concentrations in water from among the 11 sampling sites during the 1993 crop year ranged from 1.0 to 4.4 ug/L and from 1.0 to 8.9 ug/L during the 1994 crop year. Statistically significant linear-regression equations were identified relating the percentage of subbasin in cropland to time- and flow-weighted, average annual mean atrazine concentrations. The relations indicate that time-weighted, average annual mean atrazine concentrations may not exceed the MCL in water from subbasins with at least about 70-percent cropland. However, flow-weighted, average annual mean atrazine concentrations may exceed the MCL when the percentage of cropland is greater than about 40 percent. Approximately 90 percent of the annual atrazine load is transport from May through July. Atrazine loads and yields were larger during the 1993 cro

Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities of cat's claw (Uncaria tomentosa and Uncaria guianensis) are independent of their alkaloid content.

PubMed

Sandoval, M; Okuhama, N N; Zhang, X J; Condezo, L A; Lao, J; Angeles', F M; Musah, R A; Bobrowski, P; Miller, M J S

2002-05-01

Cat's claw is an herbal medicine from the Amazon that is used widely to treat inflammatory disorders. The purpose of this study was to characterize the antioxidative and antiinflammatory properties of cat's claw, Uncaria tomentosa (UT) and Uncaria guianensis (UG). Alkaloids and flavanols were determined using reversed-phase HPLC; scavenging of 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrilhydrazyl (DPPH), hydroxyl radicals, and lipid peroxidation by spectrophotometry; and TNFalpha production by ELISA. Anti-inflammatory activity was assessed in vitro by inhibition of TNFalpha and nitrite production from RAW 264.7 cells exposed to LPS (50 ng/ml) and in vivo using the indomethacin-induced gastritis model. Apoptosis was assessed using the TUNEL technique and TNFalpha mRNA by in situ RT-PCR. In each of the antioxidant assays tested, UG was more potent than UT (P < 0.01). The total oxindole and pentacyclic alkaloid content of UT was 35-fold > UG. The IC50 value for inhibition of TNFalpha production was significantly (P < 0.01) higher for UT (14.1 ng/ml) vs UG (9.5 ng/ml), yet at concentrations that were considerable lower than that required for antioxidant activity. Non-alkaloid HPLC fractions from UT decreased LPS-induced TNFalpha and nitrite production in RAW 264.7 cells (P < 0.01) at a concentration range comparable to the parent botanical. Oral pretreatment for 3 d with UT protected against indomethacin-induced gastritis, and prevented TNFalpha mRNA expression and apoptosis. These results indicate that while both species of cat's claw provide effective antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, U. guianensis is more potent. In conclusion, the presence of oxindole or pentacyclic alkaloids did not influence the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of cat's claw.

FOXA1 and SOX9 Expression in the Developing Urogenital Sinus of the Tammar Wallaby (Macropus eugenii).

PubMed

Gamat, Melissa; Chew, Keng Yih; Shaw, Geoffrey; Renfree, Marilyn B

2015-01-01

The mammalian prostate is a compact structure in humans but multi-lobed in mice. In humans and mice, FOXA1 and SOX9 play pivotal roles in prostate morphogenesis, but few other species have been examined. We examined FOXA1 and SOX9 in the marsupial tammar wallaby, Macropus eugenii, which has a segmented prostate more similar to human than to mouse. In males, prostatic budding in the urogenital epithelium (UGE) was initiated by day 24 postpartum (pp), but in the female the UGE remained smooth and had begun forming the marsupial vaginal structures. FOXA1 was upregulated in the male urogenital sinus (UGS) by day 51 pp, whilst in the female UGS FOXA1 remained basal. FOXA1 was localised in the UGE in both sexes between day 20 and 80 pp. SOX9 was upregulated in the male UGS at day 21-30 pp and remained high until day 51-60 pp. SOX9 protein was localised in the distal tips of prostatic buds which were highly proliferative. The persistent upregulation of the transcription factors SOX9 and FOXA1 after the initial peak and fall of androgen levels suggest that in the tammar, as in other mammals, these factors are required to sustain prostate differentiation, development and proliferation as androgen levels return to basal levels. © 2015 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Management of cystic or predominantly cystic thyroid nodules: the role of ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration biopsy.

PubMed

Bellantone, Rocco; Lombardi, Celestino Pio; Raffaelli, Marco; Traini, Emanuela; De Crea, Carmela; Rossi, Esther Diana; Fadda, Guido

2004-01-01

Conventional fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) for cystic thyroid nodules (CTNs) has a high rate of nondiagnostic and false-negative results. Ultrasound-guided FNAB (UG-FNAB) permits direct sampling of the wall and/or the solid portion of CTNs, increasing the possibility of a representative sample. In this study we evaluated the role of UG-FNAB in CTNs management. Five-hundred-seventy-five UG-FNAB of CTNs were performed. Thyroidectomy was carried out in 119 of these cases. The medical records of these 119 patients were reviewed and form the basis of this report. The nondiagnostic smear rate was 9.2%. Cytological diagnosis was benign nodule in 42 cases, predominantly follicular lesion in 50 cases, and suspicious or malignant lesion in 16 cases. The final pathology revealed a benign nodule in 98 cases (82.4%) and a carcinoma in 21 (17.6%). The overall accuracy of UG-FNAB was 88.0%. No significant differences were found in age, sex, lesion size, or echographic pattern (p = NS) comparing patients with benign CTNs to patients with malignant CTNs. UG-FNAB has a low rate of nondiagnostic smears and a high overall accuracy in CTNs. All CTNs should undergo UG-FNAB to select patients for surgery, since the malignancy rate is not negligible and no clinical parameter can reliably predict it.

Effects and Mechanism of Blue Light on Monascus in Liquid Fermentation.

PubMed

Zhang, Xiaowei; Liu, Wenqing; Chen, Xiying; Cai, Junhui; Wang, Changlu; He, Weiwei

2017-03-01

The effect of light on Monascus and the underlying mechanism have received a great deal of interest for the industrial application of Monascus pigments. In this study, we have examined the effects of blue light on the culture morphology, mycelium growth, pigments, and citrinin yield of Monascus in liquid-state and oscillation fermentation, and explored the mechanism at a physiological level. It was found that blue light affected the colony morphology, the composition (chitin content), and permeability of the Monascus mycelium cell wall in static liquid culture, which indicates blue light benefits pigments secreting from aerial mycelium to culture medium. In liquid oscillation fermentation, the yields of Monascus pigments in fermentation broth (darkness 1741 U/g, blue light 2206 U/g) and mycelium (darkness 2442 U/g, blue light 1900 U/g) cultured under blue light and darkness are different. The total pigments produced per gram of Monascus mycelium under blue light was also higher (4663 U/g) than that in darkness (4352 U/g). However, the production of citrinin (88 μg/g) under blue light was evidently lower than that in darkness (150 μg/g). According to the degradation of citrinin caused by blue light and hydrogen peroxide, it can be concluded that blue light could degrade citrinin and inhibit the catalase activity of Monascus mycelium, subsequently suppressing the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, which is the active species that degrades citrinin.

[Effect of soft tissue thickness of upper lip on lip retraction in orthodontical-treated Class II, Division 1 females].

PubMed

Zou, Lanyi; Chen, Yunjia; Liu, Henglang; Na, Bi; He, Jinlong; Fan, Xiaoping

2016-04-01

To establish the Chinese Han national criteria for the thickness of upper lip in Chongqing and to investigate the effect of lip thickness on lip retraction in orthodontic treatment.
 A total of 240 adult patients (male=120, female=120) of Chinese Han nationality aged 18-35 years in Chongqing were treated with cephalograms and measured the thickness of upper lip. We established the Chinese Han national criteria for the thickness of upper lip in Chongqing according to the results. Sixty-eight female patients with Angle II 1 from Department of Orthodontics Stomatological Hospital of Chongqing Medical University were treated with maxillary premolars extraction, and pre- and post-treated with lateral cephalograms, then divided into 3 groups according to our criteria: a thin lips group, a normal lips group and a thick lips group. The ratio of the incisors retraction and the upper lip retraction were measured and calculated. The correlation between incisors retraction and the upper lip retraction was analyzed by the Pearson correlation method.
 There was statistical significance in the thickness of upper lip between males and females (P<0.01). The ratio of maxillary inscior retraction to the upper lip soft tissue retraction was 1.6:1, 2.2:1 and 2.9:1 in the thin lips group, the normal lips group and the thick lips group, respectively.
 Gender differences exist in the thickness of upper lip. Upper lip retraction with the incisors was negatively correlated with the soft tissue thickness of the upper lip in females with Angle II 1.

High-resolution streaming video integrated with UGS systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rohrer, Matthew

2010-04-01

Imagery has proven to be a valuable complement to Unattended Ground Sensor (UGS) systems. It provides ultimate verification of the nature of detected targets. However, due to the power, bandwidth, and technological limitations inherent to UGS, sacrifices have been made to the imagery portion of such systems. The result is that these systems produce lower resolution images in small quantities. Currently, a high resolution, wireless imaging system is being developed to bring megapixel, streaming video to remote locations to operate in concert with UGS. This paper will provide an overview of how using Wifi radios, new image based Digital Signal Processors (DSP) running advanced target detection algorithms, and high resolution cameras gives the user an opportunity to take high-powered video imagers to areas where power conservation is a necessity.

Surviving sepsis campaign: international guidelines for management of severe sepsis and septic shock: 2012.

PubMed

Dellinger, R Phillip; Levy, Mitchell M; Rhodes, Andrew; Annane, Djillali; Gerlach, Herwig; Opal, Steven M; Sevransky, Jonathan E; Sprung, Charles L; Douglas, Ivor S; Jaeschke, Roman; Osborn, Tiffany M; Nunnally, Mark E; Townsend, Sean R; Reinhart, Konrad; Kleinpell, Ruth M; Angus, Derek C; Deutschman, Clifford S; Machado, Flavia R; Rubenfeld, Gordon D; Webb, Steven A; Beale, Richard J; Vincent, Jean-Louis; Moreno, Rui

2013-02-01

To provide an update to the "Surviving Sepsis Campaign Guidelines for Management of Severe Sepsis and Septic Shock," last published in 2008. A consensus committee of 68 international experts representing 30 international organizations was convened. Nominal groups were assembled at key international meetings (for those committee members attending the conference). A formal conflict of interest policy was developed at the onset of the process and enforced throughout. The entire guidelines process was conducted independent of any industry funding. A stand-alone meeting was held for all subgroup heads, co- and vice-chairs, and selected individuals. Teleconferences and electronic-based discussion among subgroups and among the entire committee served as an integral part of the development. The authors were advised to follow the principles of the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system to guide assessment of quality of evidence from high (A) to very low (D) and to determine the strength of recommendations as strong (1) or weak (2). The potential drawbacks of making strong recommendations in the presence of low-quality evidence were emphasized. Some recommendations were ungraded (UG). Recommendations were classified into three groups: 1) those directly targeting severe sepsis; 2) those targeting general care of the critically ill patient and considered high priority in severe sepsis; and 3) pediatric considerations. Key recommendations and suggestions, listed by category, include: early quantitative resuscitation of the septic patient during the first 6 hrs after recognition (1C); blood cultures before antibiotic therapy (1C); imaging studies performed promptly to confirm a potential source of infection (UG); administration of broad-spectrum antimicrobials therapy within 1 hr of recognition of septic shock (1B) and severe sepsis without septic shock (1C) as the goal of therapy; reassessment of antimicrobial therapy daily for de-escalation, when appropriate (1B); infection source control with attention to the balance of risks and benefits of the chosen method within 12 hrs of diagnosis (1C); initial fluid resuscitation with crystalloid (1B) and consideration of the addition of albumin in patients who continue to require substantial amounts of crystalloid to maintain adequate mean arterial pressure (2C) and the avoidance of hetastarch formulations (1C); initial fluid challenge in patients with sepsis-induced tissue hypoperfusion and suspicion of hypovolemia to achieve a minimum of 30 mL/kg of crystalloids (more rapid administration and greater amounts of fluid may be needed in some patients) (1C); fluid challenge technique continued as long as hemodynamic improvement, as based on either dynamic or static variables (UG); norepinephrine as the first-choice vasopressor to maintain mean arterial pressure ≥ 65 mm Hg (1B); epinephrine when an additional agent is needed to maintain adequate blood pressure (2B); vasopressin (0.03 U/min) can be added to norepinephrine to either raise mean arterial pressure to target or to decrease norepinephrine dose but should not be used as the initial vasopressor (UG); dopamine is not recommended except in highly selected circumstances (2C); dobutamine infusion administered or added to vasopressor in the presence of a) myocardial dysfunction as suggested by elevated cardiac filling pressures and low cardiac output, or b) ongoing signs of hypoperfusion despite achieving adequate intravascular volume and adequate mean arterial pressure (1C); avoiding use of intravenous hydrocortisone in adult septic shock patients if adequate fluid resuscitation and vasopressor therapy are able to restore hemodynamic stability (2C); hemoglobin target of 7-9 g/dL in the absence of tissue hypoperfusion, ischemic coronary artery disease, or acute hemorrhage (1B); low tidal volume (1A) and limitation of inspiratory plateau pressure (1B) for acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS); application of at least a minimal amount of positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) in ARDS (1B); higher rather than lower level of PEEP for patients with sepsis-induced moderate or severe ARDS (2C); recruitment maneuvers in sepsis patients with severe refractory hypoxemia due to ARDS (2C); prone positioning in sepsis-induced ARDS patients with a PaO2/FIO2 ratio of ≤ 100 mm Hg in facilities that have experience with such practices (2C); head-of-bed elevation in mechanically ventilated patients unless contraindicated (1B); a conservative fluid strategy for patients with established ARDS who do not have evidence of tissue hypoperfusion (1C); protocols for weaning and sedation (1A); minimizing use of either intermittent bolus sedation or continuous infusion sedation targeting specific titration endpoints (1B); avoidance of neuromuscular blockers if possible in the septic patient without ARDS (1C); a short course of neuromuscular blocker (no longer than 48 hrs) for patients with early ARDS and a Pao2/Fio2 < 150 mm Hg (2C); a protocolized approach to blood glucose management commencing insulin dosing when two consecutive blood glucose levels are > 180 mg/dL, targeting an upper blood glucose ≤ 180 mg/dL (1A); equivalency of continuous veno-venous hemofiltration or intermittent hemodialysis (2B); prophylaxis for deep vein thrombosis (1B); use of stress ulcer prophylaxis to prevent upper gastrointestinal bleeding in patients with bleeding risk factors (1B); oral or enteral (if necessary) feedings, as tolerated, rather than either complete fasting or provision of only intravenous glucose within the first 48 hrs after a diagnosis of severe sepsis/septic shock (2C); and addressing goals of care, including treatment plans and end-of-life planning (as appropriate) (1B), as early as feasible, but within 72 hrs of intensive care unit admission (2C). Recommendations specific to pediatric severe sepsis include: therapy with face mask oxygen, high flow nasal cannula oxygen, or nasopharyngeal continuous PEEP in the presence of respiratory distress and hypoxemia (2C), use of physical examination therapeutic endpoints such as capillary refill (2C); for septic shock associated with hypovolemia, the use of crystalloids or albumin to deliver a bolus of 20 mL/kg of crystalloids (or albumin equivalent) over 5 to 10 mins (2C); more common use of inotropes and vasodilators for low cardiac output septic shock associated with elevated systemic vascular resistance (2C); and use of hydrocortisone only in children with suspected or proven "absolute"' adrenal insufficiency (2C). Strong agreement existed among a large cohort of international experts regarding many level 1 recommendations for the best care of patients with severe sepsis. Although a significant number of aspects of care have relatively weak support, evidence-based recommendations regarding the acute management of sepsis and septic shock are the foundation of improved outcomes for this important group of critically ill patients.

Pleistocene refugia and genetic diversity patterns in West Africa: Insights from the liana Chasmanthera dependens (Menispermaceae)

PubMed Central

Schmidt, Marco; Muellner-Riehl, Alexandra Nora; Ogundipe, Oluwatoyin Temitayo; Paule, Juraj

2017-01-01

Processes shaping the African Guineo-Congolian rain forest, especially in the West African part, are not well understood. Recent molecular studies, based mainly on forest tree species, confirmed the previously proposed division of the western African Guineo-Congolian rain forest into Upper Guinea (UG) and Lower Guinea (LG) separated by the Dahomey Gap (DG). Here we studied nine populations in the area of the DG and the borders of LG and UG of the widespread liana species, Chasmanthera dependens (Menispermaceae) by amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP), a chloroplast DNA sequence marker, and modelled the distribution based on current as well as paleoclimatic data (Holocene Climate Optimum, ca. 6 kyr BP and Last Glacial Maximum, ca. 22 kyr BP). Current population genetic structure and geographical pattern of cpDNA was related to present as well as historical modelled distributions. Results from this study show that past historical factors played an important role in shaping the distribution of C. dependens across West Africa. The Cameroon Volcanic Line seems to represent a barrier for gene flow in the present as well as in the past. Distribution modelling proposed refugia in the Dahomey Gap, supported also by higher genetic diversity. This is in contrast with the phylogeographic patterns observed in several rainforest tree species and could be explained by either diverging or more relaxed ecological requirements of this liana species. PMID:28301470

Changes in Energy Demand of Dance Activity and Cardiorespiratory Fitness During 1 Year of Vocational Contemporary Dance Training.

PubMed

Beck, Sarah; Wyon, Matthew A; Redding, Emma

2018-03-01

Beck, S, Wyon, MA, and Redding, E. Changes in energy demand of dance activity and cardiorespiratory fitness during 1 year of vocational contemporary dance training. J Strength Cond Res 32(3): 841-848, 2018-Previous literature has demonstrated that the intensity of dance class as well as its discontinuous nature is not sufficient to elicit an aerobic training response and that the aerobic capacity of dancers is relatively low. These findings have raised questions on the suitability of training, through class and rehearsal, as adequate preparation for the physical demands of performance and a sustained, successful career in dance. The aim of this study was to describe changes in aerobic fitness and energy cost of dance movement occurring throughout 1 year of training. Subjects were 13 female dance students; 7 first-year undergraduate (UG) students, and 6 postgraduate (PG) students. At 3 time points (TP1, TP2, and TP3) during 1 academic year, each subject completed a treadmill test to determine V[Combining Dot Above]O2peak (ml·kg·min) and lactate threshold (LT) (ml·kg·min and %V[Combining Dot Above]O2peak) and a standardized 4-minute dance sequence, where the mean demand was expressed as V[Combining Dot Above]O2 (ml·kg·min), heart rate (b·min), %V[Combining Dot Above]O2peak, and %LT. Both groups displayed an overall decrease in mean V[Combining Dot Above]O2peak throughout the year, despite a peak in fitness at TP2 in the PG students. No significant changes in LT were noted over time for either group. A significant reduction in the relative intensity of the dance sequence, particularly in relation to mean VO2 (ml·kg·min) and %LT data, was observed over time in both groups, although the degree of change was less in the UG group than the PG group. Apparent adaptations during a rehearsal period in the PG group are presented in contrast to previous research findings. Recommendations for future research include further investigation into the energy demand of rehearsal and cardiorespiratory adaptation during rehearsal periods as well as further reporting of measures related to LT and movement economy.

The effect of PDT on H. influenzae biofilm in vitro

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rhee, C.-K.; Bae, S. H.; Lee, J. W.; Ahn, J. C.; Jung, J. Y.; Suh, M.-W.

2009-02-01

Biofilm formation has been demonstrated for many mucosal pathogens such as Haemophilus influenzae. The presence of mucosal biofilms with chronic otitis media with effusion (COME) suggests that bacteria do not clear by antibiotics. Aim: To test the effect of photodynamic therapy (PDT) on H. influenzae biofilm in vitro. Methods: Sixteen biofilms of H. influenzae were maintained on culture chamber with continuous flow cell system. The biofilms were divided into control, laser, photofrin, and PDT groups. For culture group, the biofilms were cultured. For laser group, 7.2 J/cm2 of 632 nm diode laser was irradiated to the biofilms. For photofrin group, photofrins 5 and 25ug/ml were added to the media. For PDT group, photofrins 5 and 25 ug/ml were added to the media following 632 nm diode laser was irradiated (7.2 J/cm2) to the biofilms. Live/Dead (DAPI/PI) stain was performed and biofilms were examined under confocal laser microscope for thickness and density of biofilms. Results: By DAPI/PI staining, significant reduction of biofilms thickness and complete killing of H. influenzae in PDT group with 25µg photofrin was noted while the biofilms were well maintained in the other groups. Conclusion: The results of this study demonstrated that PDT appears to be effective to photoinactivate experimental H. influenzae biofilms in vitro. Clinical implication: PDT can be a possible alternative treatment to antiobiotic treatment on otitis media with biofilm formation.

Identification and validation of single nucleotide polymorphic markers linked to Ug99 stem rust resistance in spring wheat

PubMed Central

Chao, Shiaoman; Singh, Ravi P.; Sorrells, Mark E.

2017-01-01

Wheat stem rust (Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici Eriks. and E. Henn.) is one of the most destructive diseases world-wide. Races belonging to Ug99 (or TTKSK) continue to cause crop losses in East Africa and threaten global wheat production. Developing and deploying wheat varieties with multiple race-specific genes or complex adult plant resistance is necessary to achieve durability. In the present study, we applied genome-wide association studies (GWAS) for identifying loci associated with the Ug99 stem rust resistance (SR) in a panel of wheat lines developed at the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT). Genotyping was carried out using the wheat 9K iSelect single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) chip. Phenotyping was done in the field in Kenya by infection of Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici race TTKST, the Sr24-virulent variant of Ug99. Marker-trait association identified 12 SNP markers significantly associated with resistance. Among them, 7 were mapped on five chromosomes. Markers located on chromosomes 4A and 4B overlapped with the location of the Ug99 resistance genes SrND643 and Sr37, respectively. Markers identified on 7DL were collocated with Sr25. Additional significant markers were located in the regions where no Sr gene has been reported. The chromosome location for five of the SNP markers was unknown. A BLASTN search of the NCBI database using the flanking sequences of the SNPs associated with Ug99 resistance revealed that several markers were linked to plant disease resistance analogues, while others were linked to regulatory factors or metabolic enzymes. A KASP (Kompetitive Allele Specific PCR) assay was used for validating six marker loci linked to genes with resistance to Ug99. Of those, four co-segregated with the Sr25-pathotypes while the rest identified unknown resistance genes. With further investigation, these markers can be used for marker-assisted selection in breeding for Ug99 stem rust resistance in wheat. PMID:28241006

Hydrophobic Residues near the Bilin Chromophore-Binding Pocket Modulate Spectral Tuning of Insert-Cys Subfamily Cyanobacteriochromes

PubMed Central

Cho, Sung Mi; Jeoung, Sae Chae; Song, Ji-Young; Song, Ji-Joon; Park, Youn-Il

2017-01-01

Cyanobacteriochromes (CBCRs) are a subfamily of phytochrome photoreceptors found exclusively in photosynthetic cyanobacteria. Four CBCRs containing a second Cys in the insert region (insert-Cys) have been identified from the nonheterocystous cyanobacterium Microcoleus B353 (Mbr3854g4 and Mbl3738g2) and the nitrogen fixing, heterocystous cyanobacterium Nostoc punctiforme (NpF2164g3 and NpR1597g2). These insert-Cys CBCRs can sense light in the near-UV to orange range, but key residues responsible for tuning their colour sensitivity have not been reported. In the present study, near-UV/Green (UG) photosensors Mbr3854g4 (UG1) and Mbl3738g2 (UG2) were chosen for further spectroscopic analysis of their spectral sensitivity and tuning. Consistent with most dual-Cys CBCRs, both UGs formed a second thioether linkage to the phycocyanobilin (PCB) chromophore via the insert-Cys. This bond is subject to breakage and relinkage during forward and reverse photoconversions. Variations in residues equivalent to Phe that are in close contact with the PCB chromophore D-ring in canonical red/green CBCRs are responsible for tuning the light absorption peaks of both dark and photoproducts. This is the first time these key residues that govern light absorption in insert-Cys family CBCRs have been identified and characterised. PMID:28094296

Bias and precision of selected analytes reported by the National Atmospheric Deposition Program and National Trends Network, 1984

USGS Publications Warehouse

Brooks, M.H.; Schroder, L.J.; Willoughby, T.C.

1987-01-01

The U.S. Geological Survey operated a blind audit sample program during 1974 to test the effects of the sample handling and shipping procedures used by the National Atmospheric Deposition Program and National Trends Network on the quality of wet deposition data produced by the combined networks. Blind audit samples, which were dilutions of standard reference water samples, were submitted by network site operators to the central analytical laboratory disguised as actual wet deposition samples. Results from the analyses of blind audit samples were used to calculate estimates of analyte bias associated with all network wet deposition samples analyzed in 1984 and to estimate analyte precision. Concentration differences between double blind samples that were submitted to the central analytical laboratory and separate analyses of aliquots of those blind audit samples that had not undergone network sample handling and shipping were used to calculate analyte masses that apparently were added to each blind audit sample by routine network handling and shipping procedures. These calculated masses indicated statistically significant biases for magnesium, sodium , potassium, chloride, and sulfate. Median calculated masses were 41.4 micrograms (ug) for calcium, 14.9 ug for magnesium, 23.3 ug for sodium, 0.7 ug for potassium, 16.5 ug for chloride and 55.3 ug for sulfate. Analyte precision was estimated using two different sets of replicate measures performed by the central analytical laboratory. Estimated standard deviations were similar to those previously reported. (Author 's abstract)

Year 3 Summary Report: Baseline Selenium Monitoring of Agricultural Drains Operated by the Imperial Irrigation District in the Salton Sea Basin

USGS Publications Warehouse

Saiki, Michael K.; Martin, Barbara A.; May, Thomas W.

2008-01-01

This report summarizes findings from the third year of a 4-year-long field investigation to document selected baseline environmental conditions in 29 agricultural drains and ponds operated by the Imperial Irrigation District along the southern border of the Salton Sea. Routine water quality and fish species were measured at roughly quarterly intervals from April 2007 to January 2008. The water quality measurements included total suspended solids and total (particulate plus dissolved) selenium. In addition, during April and October 2007, water samples were collected from seven intensively monitored drains for measurement of particulate and dissolved selenium, including inorganic and organic fractions. In addition, sediment, aquatic food chain matrices (particulate organic detritus, filamentous algae, net plankton, and midge [chironomid] larvae), and two fish species (western mosquitofish, Gambusia affinis; and sailfin molly, Poecilia latipinna) were sampled from the seven drains for measurement of total selenium concentrations. The mosquitofish and mollies were intended to serve as surrogates for desert pupfish (Cyprinodon macularius), an endangered species that we were not permitted to take for selenium determinations. Water quality values were typical of surface waters in a hot desert climate. A few drains exhibited brackish, near anoxic conditions especially during the summer and fall when water temperatures occasionally exceeded 30 degrees C. In general, total selenium concentrations in water varied directly with conductivity and inversely with pH. Although desert pupfish were found in several drains, sometimes in relatively high numbers, the fish faunas of most drains and ponds were dominated by nonnative species, especially red shiner (Cyprinella lutrensis), mosquitofish, and mollies. Dissolved selenium in water samples from the seven intensively monitored drains ranged from 0.700 to 24.1 ug/L, with selenate as the major constituent in all samples. Selenium concentrations in other matrices varied widely among drains and ponds, with at least one drain (for example, Trifolium 18) exhibiting especially high concentrations in food chain organisms (in detritus, 13.3-28.9 ug Se/g; in net plankton, 11.9-19.3 ug Se/g; in midge larvae, 12.7-15.4 ug Se/g) and fish (in mollies, 12.8-25.1 ug Se/g; in mosquitofish, 13.2-20.2 ug Se/g; all concentrations are dry weights). These elevated concentrations approached or exceeded average concentrations reported from flowing waters in seleniferous wetlands in the San Joaquin Valley.

Blood lead levels and potental environmental exposures among children under five years in Kibera slums, Nairobi.

PubMed

Olewe, Tom M; Mwanthi, Mutuku A; Wang'ombe, Joseph K; Griffiths, Jeffrey K

2009-04-01

Lead exposure has been associated with intellectual impairment in children in a number of international studies. Prevalence of elevated blood lead levels (eBLL > or = 10ug/dL) of between 5 - 15% has been reported among in Nairobi (UNEP, 2006). However, little is known about potential environmental exposure for eBLLs among children in Kibera, Nairobi. A descriptive, cross-sectional study of children drawn from Kibera slums who presented at Yes to kids (Y2K) programme of VIPS Health Services at Woodley, Nairobi between June and August 2007 was carried out. The study assessed potential correlates of eBLLs in 387 children aged 6 to 59 months and had lived in Kibera slums since birth. Sampling was purposive. The factors examined were age, sex, breastfeeding history, respondent's education and occupation, type of house walls, sources of drinking water and kales, and awareness of lead poisoning among respondents. Potential risk factors such exposure to paint, contaminated playgrounds, glazed pottery, cosmetics and para-occupational as well as living near lead industry and pica behavior were also examined. Potential environmental sources of lead such as drinking water, soil and kales were analyzed for lead levels. Seven percent (n = 27, N = 387) had BLLs above 10ug/dl. BLL > or = 10ug/dl was associated with non-permanent housing (p = 0.812), playing on potentially lead contaminated grounds (p = 0.627) and pica behavior (p = 0.439). Low risk parental occupation (p = 0.001) and Kales sourced from the market/kiosks (p = 0.001) were significantly associated with BLL > or = 10ug/dl. Soil lead levels (Soil Pb) ranged from 3,000 to 90,000ug/kg, which was very high compared to WHO acceptable range of 100 - 200ug/kg. There was weak linear association (r2 = 0.0160) between Soil Pb and mean BLLs for a given village. There were no detectable levels of lead in kales and tap water. The study found about 7% (N = 387) of the children tested had eBLL > or = 10ug/dl in an area with very high soil lead levels (range in Kibera slums: 3,365 - 89,570ug/kg; WHO allowable range: 100 - 120ug/kg), raising a health flag that must be addressed using the multi-sectoral approach and further studies. It's important to note that the study design and its inherent limitations could have masked true picture of childhood lead poisoning in Kibera slums, Nairobi.

Assessment of arsenic concentrations in domestic well water, by town, in Maine 2005-09

USGS Publications Warehouse

Nielsen, M.G.; Lombard, P.J.; Schalk, L.F.

2010-01-01

Prior studies have established that approximately 10 percent of domestic wells in Maine have arsenic levels greater than the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency maximum contaminant limit (10 micrograms per liter (ug/L)). Of even greater concern are multiple discoveries of wells with very high arsenic levels (> 500 ug/L) in several areas of the State. A study was initiated to assist the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (ME-CDC) in developing a better understanding of the statewide spatial occurrence of wells with elevated arsenic levels at the individual town level, identify areas of the State that should be targeted for increased efforts to promote well-water testing, and generate data for potential use in predicting areas of the State likely to have very high levels of arsenic. The State's Health and Environmental and Testing Laboratory (HETL) annually analyzes samples from thousands of domestic wells for arsenic. Results of arsenic analyses of domestic well water submitted to the HETL from 2005 to 2009 were screened and organized, by town, in order to summarize the results for all towns with samples submitted to the HETL. In order to preserve the privacy of well owners, the screening and organization of samples was conducted in the offices of the ME-CDC, following applicable Maine and United States laws, rules, and privacy policies. After screening, the database contained samples from 531 towns in Maine and from 11,111 individual wells. Of those towns, 385 had samples from 5 or more individual wells, 174 towns had samples from 20 or more individual wells, and 49 towns had samples from 60 or more wells. These samples, because they were submitted by homeowners and were not part of a random sample, may not be representative of all wells in a given area. The minimum, maximum, and median arsenic values for the towns with five or more samples were calculated, and the maximum and median values were mapped for the State. The percentages of samples exceeding 10, 50, 100, and 500 ug/L were calculated for the 174 towns with 20 or more sampled wells, and statewide maps were prepared for each of these categories. More than 25 percent of the sampled wells in 44 towns exceeded 10 ug/L. Many fewer towns had wells with samples that exceeded the 50, 100, or 500 ug/L categories. For 19 towns, more than 10 percent of the sampled wells had arsenic concentrations that exceeded 50 ug/L, and in 45 towns, 1 percent or more exceeded 100 ug/L. Of these, Surry in Hancock County had 120 wells tested, and 23 percent of those wells had arsenic concentrations that exceeded 100 ug/L, which is a much higher rate than for other towns. In only four towns (Danforth in Washington County, Surry and Blue Hill in Hancock County, and Woolwich in Sagadahoc County), 1 percent or more of the sampled wells had arsenic concentrations greater than 500 ug/L during 2005-09. The distribution of high arsenic concentrations in wells follows some geographic patterns, which are generally geologically controlled. There are clusters or belts of towns with high arsenic concentrations (> 50 ug/L), such as in southern coastal areas, the Kennebec County area, and towns along the central coastal part of Maine. In contrast, there are areas of the State with low arsenic concentrations, such as the northernmost towns, as well as towns in the western and west-central areas. There appear to be three distinct large-scale areas of high concentrations of arsenic in groundwater-one in southern coastal areas, one in central Kennebec County, and one in the town of Ellsworth (Hancock County) and the surrounding areas. In addition, several smaller clusters of isolated high concentrations of arsenic in groundwater exist. Earlier testing has identified other clusters of very high arsenic concentrations in groundwater in the towns of Northport, Buxton/Hollis, and Waldoboro, but those samples were collected before 2005 and did not factor in this analysis.

Smartphone and Universal Goniometer for Measurement of Elbow Joint Motions: A Comparative Study

PubMed Central

Behnoush, Behnam; Tavakoli, Nasim; Bazmi, Elham; Nateghi Fard, Fariborz; Pourgharib Shahi, Mohammad Hossein; Okazi, Arash; Mokhtari, Tahmineh

2016-01-01

Background Universal goniometer (UG) is commonly used as a standard method to evaluate range of motion (ROM) as part of joint motions. It has some restrictions, such as involvement of both hands of the physician, leads to instability of hands and error. Nowadays smartphones usage has been increasing due to its easy application. Objectives The study was designed to compare the smartphone inclinometer-based app and UG in evaluation of ROM of elbow. Materials and Methods The maximum ROM of elbow in position of flexion and pronation and supination of forearm were examined in 60 healthy volunteers with UG and smartphone. Data were analyzed using SPSS (ver. 16) software and appropriate statistical tests were applied, such as paired t-test, ICC and Bland Altman curves. Results The results of this study showed high reliability and validity of smartphone in regarding UG with ICC > 0.95. The highest reliability for both methods was in elbow supination and the lowest was in the elbow flexion (0.84). Conclusions Smartphones due to ease of access and usage for the physician and the patient, may be good alternatives for UG. PMID:27625754

Comparing the Metal Concentration in the Hair of Cancer Patients and Healthy People Living in the Malwa Region of Punjab, India

PubMed Central

Blaurock-Busch, Eleonore; Busch, Yvette M.; Friedle, Albrecht; Buerner, Holger; Parkash, Chander; Kaur, Anudeep

2014-01-01

The cancer prevalence in the Malwa region of Punjab (1089/million/year) is much higher than the national average cancer prevalence in India (800/million/year). The participants in the present study were 50 healthy individuals and 49 cancer patients all living in the Malwa region of Punjab, with the healthy people being selected from the same household as the cancer patients. High concentrations of several potentially toxic elements were found in hair samples from people living in Punjab. Compared to standard reference ranges, the metals in excess in both the control and patient groups were aluminium (Al), barium (Ba), manganese (Mn), strontium (Sr) and uranium (U). The most significant findings were high lead (Pb), U and Ba concentrations. The maximum values for Ba, Mn, Pb and U were found in hair from breast cancer patients. The mean concentration of U in hair from the breast cancer patients was 0.63 μg U/g, which is more than double the value found in the control group and over six times higher than the reference range of 0.1 μg U/g. Water, soil, and phosphate fertilizers all seem to play a potential role, causing an increased metal burden in Punjabi people living in the Malwa region. The present study indicates that metals, and especially U, may be a factor in the development of breast cancer among Punjabi women. PMID:24453505

Expanding the role of unattended ground sensors to multi-tiered systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Garrison, David R., II

2009-05-01

Unattended Ground Sensors (UGS) have recently gained momentum in surveillance and protection applications. Many of these Unattended Ground Sensors are deployed in current operations today across the Department of Defense (DoD) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS). In addition to UGS needs, there is a growing desire to leverage existing UGS for incorporation into higher level systems for a broadening role in defense and homeland security applications. The architecture to achieve this goal and examples of non-traditional scenarios that leverage higher level systems are discussed in this paper.

Homestead Valley, California, aftershocks (March 17-18, 1979) recorded on portable seismographs

USGS Publications Warehouse

Perry-Huston, Sue; Eberhart-Phillips, Donna

1994-01-01

A method for the determination of chlorinated organic compounds in aquatic tissue by dual capillary-column gas chromatography with electron- capture detection is described. Whole-body-fish or corbicula tissue is homogenized, Soxhlet extracted, lipid removed by gel permeation chromatography, and fractionated using alumina/silica adsorption chromatography. The extracts are analyzed by dissimilar capillary-column gas chromatography with electron-capture detection. The method reporting limits are 5 micrograms per kilogram (ug/kg) for chlorinated compounds, 50 ug/kg for polychlorinated biphenyls, and 200 ug/kg for toxaphene.

Lipase production by Penicillium restrictum using solid waste of industrial babassu oil production as substrate.

PubMed

Palma, M B; Pinto, A L; Gombert, A K; Seitz, K H; Kivatinitz, S C; Castilho, L R; Freire, D M

2000-01-01

Lipase, protease, and amylase production by Penicillium restrictum in solid-state fermentation was investigated. The basal medium was an industrial waste of babassu oil (Orbignya oleifera) production. It was enriched with peptone, olive oil, and Tween-80. The supplementation positively influenced both enzyme production and fungal growth. Media enriched with Tween-80 provided the highest protease activity (8.6 U/g), whereas those enriched with peptone and olive oil led to the highest lipase (27.8 U/g) and amylase (31.8 U/g) activities, respectively.

Methods of analysis by the U.S. Geological Survey National Water Quality Laboratory; arsenic speciation in natural-water samples using laboratory and field methods

USGS Publications Warehouse

Garbarino, John R.; Bednar, Anthony J.; Burkhardt, Mark R.

2002-01-01

Analytical methods for the determination of arsenite [As(III)], arsenate [As(V)], dimethylarsinate (DMA), monomethylarsonate (MMA), and roxarsone in filtered natural-water samples are described. Various analytical methods can be used for the determination, depending on the arsenic species being determined. Arsenic concentration is determined by using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) as an arsenic-specific detector for all methods. Laboratory-speciation methods are described that use an ion chromatographic column to separate the arsenic species; the column length, column packing, and mobile phase are dependent on the species of interest. Regardless of the separation technique, the arsenic species are introduced into plasma by eithe rpneumatic nebulization or arsine generation. Analysis times range from 2 to 8 minutes and method detection limits range from 0.1 to 0.6 microgram-arsenic per liter (ug-As/L), 10 to 60 picograms absolute (for a 100-microliter injection), depending on the arsenic species determined and the analytical method used. A field-generation specciation method also is described that uses a strong anion exchange cartridge to separate As(III) from As(V) in the field. As(III) in the eluate and the As(V) in the cartridge extract are determined by direct nebulization ICP-MS. Methylated arsenic species that also are retained on the cartridge will positively bias As(V) results without further laboratory separations. The method detection limit for field speciation is 0.3 ug-As/L. The distribution of arsenic species must be preserved in the field to eliminate changes caused by photochemical oxidation or metal oxyhydroxide precipitation. Preservation techniques, such as refrigeration, the addition of acides, or the additoin of ethylene-diaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and the effects of ambient light were tested. Of the preservatives evaluated, EDTA was found to work best with the laboratory- and field-speciation methods for all sample matrices tested. Storing the samples in opaque polytethylene bottles eliminated the effects of photochemical oxidation. The percentage change in As(III):As(V) ratios for an EDTA-preserved acid mine drainage (AMD) sample and ground-water sample during a 3-month period was -5 percent and +3 percent, respectively. The bias and variability of the methods were evaluated by comparing results for total arsenic and As(III), As(V), DMA, and MMA concentrations in ground water, AMD, and surface water. Seventy-one ground-water, 10 AMD, and 24 surface-water samples were analyzed. Concentrations in ground-water samples reached 720 ug-As/L for As(III) and 1080 ug-As/L for As(V); AMD samples reached 12800 ug-As/L for As(III) and 7050 ug-As/L for As(V); and surface-water samples reached 5 ug-As/L for As(III) and As(V). Inorganic arsenic species distribution in the samples ranged from 0 to 90 percent As(III). DMA and MMA were present only in surface-water samples from agricultural areas where the herbicide monosodium methylarsonate was applied; concentrations never exceeded 6 ug-As/L. Statistical analyses indicated that the difference between As(III) and As(V) concentrations for samples preserved with EDTA in opaque bottles and field-speciation results were analytically insignificant at the 95-percent confidence interval. There was no significant difference among the methods tested for total arsenic concentration. Percentage recovery for field samples spiked at 50 ug-As/L and analyzed by the laboratory-speciation method (n=2) ranged from 82 to 100 percent for As(III), 97 to 102 percent for As(V), 90 to 104 percent for DMA, and 81 to 96 percent for MMA; recoveries for samples spiked at 100 ug-As/L and analyzed by the field-speciation method ranged from 102 to 107 percent for As(III) and 105 to 106 percent for As(V). Laboratory-speciation results for Environment Canada reference material SLRS-2 closely matched reported concentrations. Laboratory-speciation metho

Designing User-Centric Patient Portals: Clinician and Patients' Uses and Gratifications.

PubMed

Alpert, Jordan M; Krist, Alex H; Aycock, Rebecca A; Kreps, Gary L

2017-03-01

Legislation mandates that clinicians make patients' medical information available digitally. This has resulted in hurriedly installing patient portals that do not fully meet the needs of patients or clinicians. This study examined a specific portal, MyPreventiveCare (MPC), a patient-centered portal designed to promote preventive care to consumers, to elicit recommendations from patients and clinicians about how it could be more beneficial by uncovering their uses and gratifications (U&G). In-depth interviews with 31 patients and two clinician focus groups were conducted. Multiple methods were utilized, such as grounded theory coding to develop themes and content analysis to classify responses according to the U&G framework. Four main categories emerged that users desire to be included in health portals: integration with technology (27%), coordination of care (27%), incorporation of lifestyle (26%), and increased control (20%). Additional analysis revealed that health portals are mainly utilized to fulfill cognitive and affective needs, with over 80% of recommendations related to the U&G categories of cognitive and affective needs. Cognitive (60%), affective (21%), social integrative (10%), personal integrative (9%), and tension release (0%). Portals will continue to evolve and become important health communication tools if they address the user's perspective and are inclusive of new technological advances. Specifically, portals must become more user centric and incorporate aspects of the patients' lifestyle and integrate health information technology.

Designing User-Centric Patient Portals: Clinician and Patients' Uses and Gratifications

PubMed Central

Krist, Alex H.; Aycock, Rebecca A.; Kreps, Gary L.

2017-01-01

Abstract Background: Legislation mandates that clinicians make patients' medical information available digitally. This has resulted in hurriedly installing patient portals that do not fully meet the needs of patients or clinicians. This study examined a specific portal, MyPreventiveCare (MPC), a patient-centered portal designed to promote preventive care to consumers, to elicit recommendations from patients and clinicians about how it could be more beneficial by uncovering their uses and gratifications (U&G). Materials and Methods: In-depth interviews with 31 patients and two clinician focus groups were conducted. Multiple methods were utilized, such as grounded theory coding to develop themes and content analysis to classify responses according to the U&G framework. Results: Four main categories emerged that users desire to be included in health portals: integration with technology (27%), coordination of care (27%), incorporation of lifestyle (26%), and increased control (20%). Additional analysis revealed that health portals are mainly utilized to fulfill cognitive and affective needs, with over 80% of recommendations related to the U&G categories of cognitive and affective needs. Cognitive (60%), affective (21%), social integrative (10%), personal integrative (9%), and tension release (0%). Conclusions: Portals will continue to evolve and become important health communication tools if they address the user's perspective and are inclusive of new technological advances. Specifically, portals must become more user centric and incorporate aspects of the patients' lifestyle and integrate health information technology. PMID:27333468

Trace metal concentrations in snow from the Yukon River Basin, Alaska and Canada

USGS Publications Warehouse

Wang, B.; Gough, L.; Hinkley, T.; Garbarino, J.; Lamothe, P.

2005-01-01

We report here on metal concentrations in snow collected from the Yukon River basin. Atmospheric transport of metals and subsequent deposition is a known mechanism for introducing metals into the northern environment. Potential sources of airborne elements are locally generated terrestrial sources, locally derived anthropogenic sources, and long range atmospheric transport. Sites were distributed along the Yukon River corridor and within the southeastern, central, and western basin areas. Snow samples were taken in the spring of 2001 and 2002 when the snow pack was at its maximum. Total-depth composite samples were taken from pits using clean techniques. Mercury was analyzed using cold vapor atomic fluorescence spectrometry. All other elements were analyzed by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. In samples from remote sites, the concentration for selected metals ranged from: 0.015 - 0.34 ug/L for V, 0.01 - 0.22 ug/L for Ni, < 0.05 - 0.52 ug/L for Cu, 0.14 - 2.8 ug/L for Zn, 0.002 - 0.046 ug/L for Cd, 0.03 - 0.13 ug/L for Pb, 0.00041 - 0.0023 ug/L for filtered-Hg. Because the entire snow pack was sampled and there was no evidence of mid-season thaw, these concentrations represent the seasonal deposition. There was no significant difference in the seasonal deposition of V, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb at these sites between 2001 and 2002, and no north-south or east-west trend in concentrations. Samples taken from within communities, however, had significantly higher concentrations of V, Ni, Cu, Zn, and Cd in 2001, and Ni, Cu, and Pb in 2002 relative to the remote sites. Our data indicate that the atmospheric deposition of metals in the Yukon River basin is relatively uniform both spatially and temporally. However, communities have a measurable but variable effect on metal concentrations. Copyright ASCE 2005.

A new 2DS·2RL Robertsonian translocation transfers Sr59 resistance to stem rust into wheat

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Emerging new races of the wheat stem rust pathogen Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici Eriks. & E. Henn, especially the Ug99 race group threaten global wheat, Triticum aestivum L., production. Screening of a collection of wheat-rye, Secale cereale L., chromosome substitution lines developed at the Swed...

Genetic characterization of stem rust resistance in a global spring wheat germplasm collection

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Stem rust is considered one of the most damaging diseases of wheat. The recent emergence of the stem rust Ug99 race group poses a serious threat to world wheat production. Utilization of genetic resistance in cultivar development is the optimal way to control stem rust. Here we report association ma...

Hydrodynamic characteristics and overall volumetric oxygen transfer coefficient of a new multi-environment bioreactor.

PubMed

Behzadian, Farnaz; Yerushalmi, Laleh; Alimahmoodi, Mahmood; Mulligan, Catherine N

2013-08-01

The hydrodynamic characteristics and the overall volumetric oxygen transfer coefficient of a new multi-environment bioreactor which is an integrated part of a wastewater treatment system, called BioCAST, were studied. This bioreactor contains several zones with different environmental conditions including aerobic, microaerophilic and anoxic, designed to increase the contaminant removal capacity of the treatment system. The multi-environment bioreactor is designed based on the concept of airlift reactors where liquid is circulated through the zones with different environmental conditions. The presence of openings between the aerobic zone and the adjacent oxygen-depleted microaerophilic zone changes the hydrodynamic properties of this bioreactor compared to the conventional airlift designs. The impact of operating and process parameters, notably the hydraulic retention time (HRT) and superficial gas velocity (U(G)), on the hydrodynamics and mass transfer characteristics of the system was examined. The results showed that liquid circulation velocity (V(L)), gas holdup (ε) and overall volumetric oxygen transfer coefficient (k(L)a(L)) increase with the increase of superficial gas velocity (U(G)), while the mean circulation time (t(c)) decreases with the increase of superficial gas velocity. The mean circulation time between the aerobic zone (riser) and microaerophilic zone (downcomer) is a stronger function of the superficial gas velocity for the smaller openings (1/2 in.) between the two zones, while for the larger opening (1 in.) the mean circulation time is almost independent of U(G) for U(G) ≥ 0.023 m/s. The smaller openings between the two zones provide higher mass transfer coefficient and better zone generation which will contribute to improved performance of the system during treatment operations.

Determination of perchlorate in drinking water by ion chromatography using macrocycle-based concentration and separation methods.

PubMed

Lamb, John D; Simpson, David; Jensen, Bryce D; Gardner, Joseph S; Peterson, Quinn P

2006-06-16

Macrocycle-based ion chromatography provides a convenient, reliable method for the determination of perchlorate ion, which is currently of great interest to the environmental community. This study shows that effective perchlorate determinations can be made using standard conductimetric detection by combining an 18-crown-6-based mobile phase with an underivatized reversed-phase mobile phase ion chromatography (MPIC) column. One unique feature of this method is the flexibility in column capacity that is achieved through simple variations in eluent concentrations of 18-crown-6 and KOH, facilitating the separation of target analyte anions such as perchlorate. Using a standard anion exchange column as concentrator makes possible the determination of perchlorate as low as 0.2 ug/L in low ionic strength matrices. Determination of perchlorate at the sub-ug/L level in pure water and in spiked local city hard water samples with high background ion concentrations can be achieved this way. However, like other IC techniques, this method is challenged to achieve analyses at the ug/L level in the demanding high ionic strength matrix described by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) (1,000 mg/L chloride, sulfate and carbonate). We approached this challenge by use of the Cryptand C1 concentrator column, provided by Dionex Corporation, to effectively preconcentrate perchlorate while reducing background ion concentrations in the high ionic strength matrix. The retention characteristics of the concentrator column were studied in order to maximize its effectiveness for perchlorate determinations. The method makes possible the determination of perchlorate at the 5 ug/L level in the highest ionic strength matrix described by the EPA.

Aqueous geochemical data from the analysis of stream water samples collected in August 2004--Taylor Mountains 1:250,000 scale Quadrangle, Alaska

USGS Publications Warehouse

Wang, Bronwen; Mueller, Seth; Bailey, Elizabeth; Lee, Greg

2006-01-01

We report on the chemical analysis of water samples collected from the Taylor Mountains 1:250,000 quadrangle. Samples were collected as part of the multi-year U.S. Geological Survey's project -- Geologic and Mineral Deposit Data for Alaskan Economic Development. Data presented here are from water samples collected primarily in the northeastern part of the Taylor Mountains quadrangle. The data include samples taken from the Taylor Mountains C1, C2, D1, D2, and D4 1:63,360 scale quadrangles. The data are being released at this time with minimal interpretation. Site selection was based on a regional sampling strategy that focused on first and second order drainages. Water sampling site selection was based on landscape parameters that included physiography, wetland extent, lithological changes, and the cursory field review of the mineralogy from the pan concentrates. Stream water in the Taylor Mountians quadrangle is dominated by bicarbonate (HCO3-), though in a few samples more than 50% of the anionic charge can be attibuted to sulfate ( SO42-). The major-cation chemistry range from Ca/Mg dominated to a mix of Ca/Mg/Na+K. Good agreement was found between the major cation and anions in the duplicate samples. Many trace elements were at or near the method detection limit in these samples but good agreement was found between duplicate samples for elements with detectable concentrations. Major ion concentrations were below detection in all field blanks and the trace elements concentrations generally were below detection. However, Ta (range 0.9 -.1 ug/L) and Zn (1 to 3.5 ug/L) were detected in all blanks and Ba ( 0.24 ug/L) and Th (0.2 ug/L) were detected in one blank. There was good agreement between dupilicate total- and methyl- mercury and DOC samples; however, total mercury, methyl-mercury and dissolve organic carbon (DOC) were detected in the blank at 2.35 ng/L, 0.07 ng/L and 0.57 mg/L, respectively.

Predicting the Efficacy of Protein-Energy Supplementation in Frail Older Adults Living in Community.

PubMed

Kim, C O

2014-01-01

Protein-energy malnutrition is a major cause of functional decline in the elderly and is clearly an important component of frailty. However, limited evidence is available about how to select frail individuals most benefiting from protein-energy supplementation. 1) To investigate factors associated with stronger benefits from protein-energy supplementation, and 2) to test the hypothesis that the severity of frailty is associated with the efficacy of protein-energy supplementation. Secondary analysis of data from a pre-post-intervention study and a clinical trial. National Home Healthcare Services in Gangbuk-gu, Seoul, South Korea. 123 community-dwelling frail older adults [usual gait speed (UGS) <0.6m/sec and Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) <24]. Each participant was received with two 200 mL per day of commercial liquid formula (providing additional 400 kcal of energy and 25 g of protein per day) for 12 weeks. Relative change in the Physical Functioning (PF) and Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) score between the baseline and 12-week follow-up assessments were measured. Multilevel mixed-effect linear regression analysis showed that a lower level of baseline UGS was associated with a greater improvement in PF and SPPB score after adjustment for age, gender, education, living status, beneficiary of public assistance, number of chronic diseases, compliance, and type of dataset (p<0.001). A lower level of baseline MNA score was associated with greater change in PF and SPPB score after adjustment for multiple covariates (p≤0.045). Participants with severe frailty (UGS <0.3 m/sec + MNA <17) showed 52.4% and 44.6% more relevant improvements in PF and SPPB score, respectively, than those with mild frailty (UGS 0.3-0.6 m/sec + MNA 17-24) (p<0.001). Slower UGS and lower MNA score are independently associated with the greater efficacy of protein-energy supplementation on functional status.

Seasonal Shifts in Primary Water Source Type: A Comparison of Largely Pastoral Communities in Uganda and Tanzania

PubMed Central

Pearson, Amber L.; Zwickle, Adam; Namanya, Judith; Rzotkiewicz, Amanda; Mwita, Emiliana

2016-01-01

Many water-related illnesses show an increase during the wet season. This is often due to fecal contamination from runoff, yet, it is unknown whether seasonal changes in water availability may also play a role in increased illness via changes in the type of primary water source used by households. Very little is known about the dynamic aspects of access to water and changes in source type across seasons, particularly in semi-arid regions with annual water scarcity. The research questions in this study were: (1) To what degree do households in Uganda (UG) and Tanzania (TZ) change primary water source type between wet and dry seasons?; and (2) How might seasonal changes relate to water quality and health? Using spatial survey data from 92 households each in UG and TZ this study found that, from wet to dry season, 26% (UG) and 9% (TZ) of households switched from a source with higher risk of contamination to a source with lower risk. By comparison, only 20% (UG) and 0% (TZ) of households switched from a source with lower risk of contamination to a source with higher risk of contamination. This research suggests that one pathway through which water-related disease prevalence may differ across seasons is the use of water sources with higher risk contamination, and that households with access to sources with lower risks of contamination sometimes choose to use more contaminated sources. PMID:26828507

The Impact of Project-Based Climate Change Learning Experiences on Students' Broad Climate Literacy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

DeWaters, J.; Powers, S. E.; Dhaniyala, S.

2014-12-01

Evidence-based pedagogical approaches such as project- and inquiry-based techniques have been shown to promote effective learning in science and engineering. The impact of project-based learning experiences on middle school (MS), high school (HS), and undergraduate (UG) students' climate literacy was investigated as part of a NASA Innovations in Climate Education (NICE) project. Project-based modules were developed and taught by MS and HS teachers who participated in climate change education workshops. UG students enrolled in a climate science course completed independent research projects that provided the basis for several of the HS/MS modules. All modules required students to acquire and analyze historical temperature data and future climate predictions, and apply their analysis to the solution of a societal or environmental problem related to our changing climate. Three versions of a quantitative survey were developed and used in a pre-test/post-test research design to help evaluate the project's impact on MS, HS, and UG students' climate literacy, which includes broad climate knowledge as well as affective and behavioral aspects. Content objectives were guided primarily by the 2009 document, Climate Literacy: The Essential Principles of Climate Sciences. All three groups of students made modest but statistically significant cognitive (p<<0.001) and affective (p<0.01) gains; UG students also showed an increase in behavior scores (p=0.001). Results of an ANCOVA showed significant differences in students' cognitive (p<0.001), behavioral (p=0.005) and self-efficacy (p=0.012) outcomes among the 9 participating MS and HS classrooms, where both teacher and module content varied. The presentation will include a description of some key aspects of the project-based curricula developed and used in this research, the development and content of the climate literacy survey, and the interpretation of specific pre/post changes in participating students relative to the content of and approach used in the project-based modules.

Western Diet and the Weakening of the Interoceptive Stimulus Control of Appetitive Behavior

PubMed Central

Sample, Camille H.; Jones, Sabrina; Hargrave, Sara L.; Jarrard, Leonard E.; Davidson, Terry L.

2017-01-01

In obesogenic environments food-related external cues are thought to overwhelm internal cues that normally regulate energy intake. We investigated how this shift from external to internal stimulus control might occur. Experiment 1 showed that rats could use stimuli arising from 0 and 4h food deprivation to predict sucrose delivery. Experiment 2 then examined (a) the ability of these deprivation cues to compete with external cues and (b) how consuming a Western-style diet (WD) affects that competition. Rats were trained to use both their deprivation cues and external cues as compound discriminative stimuli. Half of the rats were then placed on WD while the others remained on chow, and external cues were removed to assess learning about deprivation state cues. When tested with external cues removed, chow-fed rats continued to discriminate using only deprivation cues, while WD-fed rats did not. The WD-fed group performed similarly to control groups trained with a noncontingent relationship between deprivation cues and sucrose reinforcement. Previous studies provided evidence that discrimination based on interoceptive deprivation cues depends on the hippocampus and that WD intake could interfere with hippocampal functioning. A third experiment assessed the effects of neurotoxic hippocampal lesions on weight gain and on sensitivity to the appetite-suppressing effects of the satiety hormone cholecystokinin (CCK). Relative to controls, hippocampal-lesioned rats gained more weight and showed reduced sensitivity to a 1.0 ug but not 2.0 or 4.0 ug CCK doses. These findings suggest that WD intake reduces utilization of interoceptive energy state signals to regulate appetitive behavior via a mechanism that involves the hippocampus. PMID:27312269

[Faecal calprotectin as an aid to the diagnosis of non-IgE mediated cow's milk protein allergy].

PubMed

Trillo Belizón, Carlos; Ortega Páez, Eduardo; Medina Claros, Antonio F; Rodríguez Sánchez, Isabel; Reina González, Ana; Vera Medialdea, Rafael; Ramón Salguero, José Manuel

2016-06-01

The aim of the study was to assess the use of faecal calprotectin (FCP) in infants with signs and symptoms of non-IgE-mediated cow's milk protein allergy (CMA) for both diagnosis and prediction of clinical response at the time of withdrawal of milk proteins. A one year prospective study was conducted on 82 infants between 1 and 12 months of age in the Eastern area of Málaga-Axarquía, of whom 40 of them had been diagnosed with non-IgE-mediated CMA (with suggestive symptoms and positive response to milk withdrawal), 12 not diagnosed with CMA, and 30 of them were the control group. FCP was measured at three different times: time of diagnosis, and one and three months later. ANOVA for repeated measures, nominal logistic regression and ROC curves were prepared using the SPSS.20 package and Medcalc. Differences between diagnostic and control groups were assessed: there was a statistically significant relationship (p<.0001) between high FCP levels and infants suffering CMA, as well as the levels at time of diagnosis, 1 and 3 months (p <.001). A ROC curve was constructed between FCP levels and diagnosis of CMA, with 138 ug/g, with the best cut-off being with an area under the curve of 0.89. However, it is only 0.68 to predict a clinical response. FCP levels lower than 138ug/g could be useful to rule out non-IgE-mediated CMA diagnosis. Calprotectin is not a good test to predict clinical response to milk withdrawal. Copyright © 2015 Asociación Española de Pediatría. Published by Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Creech Air Force Base Resort Property in Indian Springs, Nevada. Environmental Baseline Survey Report

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-04-01

ADDRESS DARLISH ASSOCIATES L P %R BECKER P 0 BOX 537 INDIAN SPRINGS NV 89018-0537 LOC ~HQr-I_~_!)J)_RESSCITY /TOWNSHifl 230 E US HVvY 9S NORTH...0 2 2 ss 36 56 36 60 60 Gl. 6l 󈨔 so lreQ: lEO ~~g 1lt’-.; 235 41? 415 517 51?’ . ;tiOC 600 ·GlO- 610 6l.J. 611 620 LOG OJ...Chloroethane Chloroform 5 ug/Kg 11119/10 NZ 5 ug!Kg 11119110 NZ ---------------’-’N.:::D~L_ __ ~-=C::.:h.:.: loc .:ro::m:::e:.:thc::a:::n::.e

Fate and transport modeling of selected chlorinated organic compounds at Operable Unit 3, U.S. Naval Air Station, Jacksonville, Florida

USGS Publications Warehouse

Davis, J. Hal

2000-01-01

Ground water contaminated by the chlorinated organic compounds trichloroethene (TCE), cis-dichloroethene (DCE), and vinyl chloride (VC) has been found in the surficial aquifer beneath the Naval Aviation Depot at the U.S. Naval Air Station, Jacksonville, Florida. The affected area is designated Operable Unit 3 (OU3) and covers 134 acres adjacent to the St. Johns River. Site-specific ground-water flow modeling was conducted at OU3 using MODFLOW, and solute-transport modeling was conducted using MT3DMS. Simulations using a low dispersivity value, which resulted in the highest concentration discharging to the St. Johns River, gave the following results. At 60 years traveltime, the highest concentration of TCE associated with the Area C plume had discharged to St. Johns River at a level that exceeded 1x103 micrograms per liter (ug/L). At 100 years traveltime, the highest concentration of TCE associated with the Area D plume had discharged to the river at a level exceeding 3x103 ug/L. At 200 years traveltime, the Area B plume had not begun discharging to the river. Simulations using a first-order decay rate half-life of 13.5 years (the slowest documented) at Area G caused the TCE to degrade before reaching the St. Johns River. If the ratio of the concentrations of TCE to cis-DCE and VC remained relatively constant, these breakdown products would not reach the river. However, the actual breakdown rates of cis-DCE and VC are unknown. Simulations were repeated using average dispersivity values with the following results. At 60 years traveltime, the highest concentration of TCE associated with the Area C plume had discharged to St. Johns River at a level exceeding 4x102 ug/L. At 100 years traveltime, the highest concentration of TCE associated with the Area D plume had discharged to the river at a level exceeding 1x103 ug/L. At 200 years traveltime, the Area B plume had not begun discharging to the river. 'Pump and treat' was simulated as a remedial alternative. The concentration of TCE at Area B trended rapidly downward; however, one isolated pocket of TCE remained because of the low-permeability sediments present at this area. The concentration of TCE at Area C trended rapidly downward and was below 1 ug/L in about 16 years. The concentration of TCE at Area D also trended rapidly downward and was below 1 mg/L in about 18 years.

Thermal transport in three-dimensional foam architectures of few-layer graphene and ultrathin graphite.

PubMed

Pettes, Michael Thompson; Ji, Hengxing; Ruoff, Rodney S; Shi, Li

2012-06-13

At a very low solid concentration of 0.45 ± 0.09 vol %, the room-temperature thermal conductivity (κ(GF)) of freestanding graphene-based foams (GF), comprised of few-layer graphene (FLG) and ultrathin graphite (UG) synthesized through the use of methane chemical vapor deposition on reticulated nickel foams, was increased from 0.26 to 1.7 W m(-1) K(-1) after the etchant for the sacrificial nickel support was changed from an aggressive hydrochloric acid solution to a slow ammonium persulfate etchant. In addition, κ(GF) showed a quadratic dependence on temperature between 11 and 75 K and peaked at about 150 K, where the solid thermal conductivity (κ(G)) of the FLG and UG constituents reached about 1600 W m(-1) K(-1), revealing the benefit of eliminating internal contact thermal resistance in the continuous GF structure.

Taking it easy when playing ultimatum game with a Down syndrome proposer: Effects on behavior and medial frontal negativity.

PubMed

Rêgo, Gabriel Gaudencio; Campanhã, Camila; do Egito, Julia Horta Tabosa; Boggio, Paulo Sérgio

2017-10-01

The ultimatum game (UG) is an endowment sharing game in which a proposer suggests a division of an asset to a recipient, who must accept or reject it. Economic studies showed that despite recipients usually rejecting unfair offers, perception and reaction to unfairness are highly dependent on who is the proposer. Event-related potentials (ERPs) commonly detected in UG games are the medial frontal negativity (MFN), a component detected in recipients facing unfair offers, and the P300, a component related to attentional and memory processes. Given this, we aimed to investigate the behavioral and ERP responses of healthy people playing the UG game with Down syndrome (DS) and typical development (TD) proposers. Nineteen subjects participated in this study. The UG behavioral data were similar to previous studies. ERP analysis showed no MFN in participants facing unfair offers. A higher P300 amplitude was detected when participants faced fair offers from TD compared to DS fair offers. We also found a positive correlation between P300 amplitude for TD offers and self-esteem scale score. Together these findings indicate that insertion of an atypical player in the UG led to changes in participants' perception and expectancy of the game.

Cooperative Behavior in the Ultimatum Game and Prisoner's Dilemma Depends on Players' Contributions.

PubMed

Bland, Amy R; Roiser, Jonathan P; Mehta, Mitul A; Schei, Thea; Sahakian, Barbara J; Robbins, Trevor W; Elliott, Rebecca

2017-01-01

Economic games such as the Ultimatum Game (UG) and Prisoner's Dilemma (PD) are widely used paradigms for studying fairness and cooperation. Monetary versions of these games involve two players splitting an arbitrary sum of money. In real life, however, people's propensity to engage in cooperative behavior depends on their effort and contribution; factors that are well known to affect perceptions of fairness. We therefore sought to explore the impact of relative monetary contributions by players in the UG and PD. Adapted computerized UG and PD games, in which relative contributions from each player were manipulated, were administered to 200 participants aged 18-50 years old (50% female). We found that players' contribution had large effects on cooperative behavior. Specifically, cooperation was greater amongst participants when their opponent had contributed more to joint earnings. This was manifested as higher acceptance rates and higher offers in the UG; and fewer defects in the PD compared to when the participant contributed more. Interestingly, equal contributions elicited the greatest sensitivity to fairness in the UG, and least frequent defection in the PD. Acceptance rates correlated positively with anxiety and sex differences were found in defection behavior. This study highlights the feasibility of computerized games to assess cooperative behavior and the importance of considering cooperation within the context of effortful contribution.

Chromium Is Elevated in Fin Whale (Balaenoptera physalus) Skin Tissue and Is Genotoxic to Fin Whale Skin Cells

PubMed Central

Wise, Catherine F.; Wise, Sandra S.; Thompson, W. Douglas; Perkins, Christopher; Wise, John Pierce

2015-01-01

Hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) is present in the marine environment and is a known carcinogen and reproductive toxicant. Cr(VI) is the form of chromium that is well absorbed through the cell membrane. It is also the most prevalent form in seawater. We measured the total Cr levels in skin biopsies obtained from healthy free-ranging fin whales from the Gulf of Maine and found elevated levels relative to marine mammals in other parts of the world. The levels in fin whale biopsies ranged from 1.71 ug/g to 19.6 ug/g with an average level of 10.07 ug/g. We also measured the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of Cr(VI) in fin whale skin cells. We found that particulate and soluble Cr(VI) are both cytotoxic and genotoxic to fin whale skin cells in a concentration-dependent manner. The concentration range used in our cell culture studies used environmentally relevant concentrations based on the biopsy measurements. These data suggest that Cr(VI) may be a concern for whales in the Gulf of Maine. PMID:25805270

Tannase production by Penicillium purpurogenum PAF6 in solid state fermentation of tannin-rich plant residues following OVAT and RSM.

PubMed

Jana, Arijit; Maity, Chiranjit; Halder, Suman Kumar; Mondal, Keshab Chandra; Pati, Bikash Ranjan; Mohapatra, Pradeep Kumar Das

2012-07-01

Tannase production by newly isolated Penicillium purpurogenum PAF6 was investigated by 'one variable at a time' (OVAT) approach followed by response surface methodology (RSM). Tannin-rich plant residues were used as supporting solid substrate and sole carbon source and, among them, tamarind seed was found to be the most favorable substrate than haritaki, pomegranate, tea leaf waste and arjun fruit. Physicochemical parameters were initially optimized using OVAT methodology and some important factors like incubation time, incubation temperature, substrate:moisture ratio as well as carbon, nitrogen and phosphate concentrations were verified with Box-Behken design of response surface methodology. Phosphate source, nitrogen source and temperature were found as the most favorable variables in the maximization of production. Tannase production was enhanced from 1.536 U/g to 5.784 U/g using tamarind seed OVAT optimization and further enhancement up to 6.15 U/g following RSM. An overall 3.76- and 4.0-fold increases in tannase production were achieved in OVAT and RSM, respectively.

Uncovering the effects of Arundo invasion & forest restoration on riparian soils: Plant controls on microbial processes & trace gas flux in a California watershed

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dowdy, K. L.; Dudley, T.; Schimel, J.

2016-12-01

The opportunistic reed Arundo donax has invaded riparian zones in many California watersheds, altering hydrological and ecological processes. There have been intense efforts to restore these watersheds to native vegetation. How the shifts in communities—native to invaded to restored—affect soil conditions and processes, however, remains unclear. Because riparian zones are hotspots of nutrient cycling and greenhouse gas flux, it is critical to understand how plant community composition (and associated litter contributions) governs riparian biogeochemistry. How do organic matter inputs in invaded and restored plant communities alter soil microbial processes and trace gas dynamics? In this study, we use laboratory incubations to compare microbial cycling of C and nitrogen (N) and trace gas flux between the soils and litter of the invasive Arundo and three native riparian species: Populus tricocarpa, Salix laevigata, and Baccharis salicifolia (or, black cotton wood, red willow, and mulefat). Soils beneath Arundo and Salix produced CO2 at a similar rate ( 250 ug CO2 g dry soil-1 hour-1), while Populus and Baccharis produced less ( 170 ug CO2 g dry soil-1 hour-1). All soils consumed CH4; however, Arundo soils consumed more than native-restored species, which consumed similar quantities (-0.013 CH4 g dry soil-1 hour-1 in Arundo vs. -0.009 CH4 g dry soil-1 hour-1 in native). Arundo soils also produced less N2O (0.02 ug N2O g dry soil-1 hour-1) than all native species ( 0.09 ug N2O g dry soil-1 hour-1). Arundo contributed far less litter inputs than native-restored species, as Arundo leaves senesce and remain on the stalk; furthermore, Arundo litter has been shown to have a higher C:N (40.2) than Salix and Baccharis (30.9). Greater CH4 consumption and lower N2O production in Arundo soils may be the result of enhanced porosity compared to restored soils, leading to more aeration and less methanogenesis and denitrification, or it may be that there is lower N availability in Arundo soils suppressing nitrification and reducing NH4- inhibition of methanotrophs.

Mapping and characterization of wheat stem rust resistance genes SrTm5 and Sr60 from Triticum monococcum

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The emergence and spread of new virulent races of the wheat stem rust pathogen (Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici; Pgt), including the TTKSK (Ug99) race group, is a serious threat to global wheat production. In this study, we mapped and characterized two stem rust resistance genes from diploid wheat ...

Effects of ozone (0.30 parts per million, ~600 ug/m\\0xB3) on sedentary men representative of airline passengers and cockpit crewmembers.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1980-03-01

This study was undertaken to determine the effects of 0.30 ppmv ozone on 40 men representative of airline pilots. All were medically fit; 20 were smokers and 20 were nonsmokers. : Subjects were divided into two age groups, 40-49 years and 50-59 years...

Assessing the Vulnerability of Public-Supply Wells to Contamination: Floridan Aquifer System Near Tampa, Florida

USGS Publications Warehouse

Jagucki, Martha L.; Katz, Brian G.; Crandall, Christy A.; Eberts, Sandra M.

2009-01-01

This fact sheet highlights findings from the vulnerability study of a public-supply well in Temple Terrace, Florida, northeast of Tampa. The well selected for study typically produces water at the rate of 700 gallons per minute from the Upper Floridan aquifer. Water samples were collected at the public-supply well and at monitoring wells installed in or near the simulated zone of contribution to the supply well. Samples of untreated water from the public-supply wellhead contained the undesirable constituents nitrate, arsenic, uranium, radon-222, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and pesticides, although all were detected at concentrations less than established drinking-water standards, where such standards exist. Overall, study findings point to four primary factors that affect the movement and fate of contaminants and the vulnerability of the public-supply well in Temple Terrace: (1) groundwater age (how long ago water entered, or recharged, the aquifer); (2) short-circuiting of contaminated water through sinkholes; (3) natural geochemical processes within the aquifer; and (4) pumping stress. Although the public-supply well is completed in the Upper Floridan aquifer, it produces water with concentrations of nitrate, VOCs, and the natural contaminant radon that are intermediate between the typical composition of water from the Upper Floridan aquifer and that of the overlying surficial aquifer system. Mixing calculations show that the water produced by the public-supply well could consist of upwards of 50 percent water from the surficial aquifer system mixed with water from the Upper Floridan aquifer. Anthropogenically affected water from the surficial aquifer system travels rapidly to depth through sinkholes that must be directly connected to the cavernous zone intersected by the public-supply well (and several other production wells in the region). Such solution features serve as fast pathways to the well and circumvent the natural attenuation of nitrate and radon that occurs when water from the surficial aquifer flows downward through the confining unit and then through the Upper Floridan aquifer matrix. Roughly 50 percent of the simulated flow to the public-supply well consists of water less than about 10 years old, thus making the well vulnerable to contamination from human activities. Sampling at various depths in the public-supply well during pumping and nonpumping conditions showed that water entering the well from the cavernous zone had much higher arsenic concentrations during pumping conditions (18.9 ug/L) than during nonpumping conditions (4.2 ug/L). This implies that movement of arsenic to the public-supply well from the cavernous zone is enhanced by pumping. One possible explanation is that pumping increases the movement of water with elevated dissolved oxygen content through the cavernous zone, which causes dissolution of arsenic associated with pyrite. All public-supply wells in the area may not have the same level of vulnerability as the well studied - many of the public-supply wells in the region have lower pumping rates and longer open intervals that may draw in a larger proportion of old water that predates anthropogenic influences. Determining the similarity of water produced by various public-supply wells in the region to that of the surficial aquifer system is one measure of well vulnerability that could be used to prioritize monitoring and land-use planning efforts to protect the most vulnerable wells.

Highly thermostable and pH-stable cellulases from Aspergillus niger NS-2: properties and application for cellulose hydrolysis.

PubMed

Bansal, Namita; Janveja, Chetna; Tewari, Rupinder; Soni, Raman; Soni, Sanjeev Kumar

2014-01-01

Optimization of cultural conditions for enhanced cellulase production by Aspergillus niger NS-2 were studied under solid-state fermentation. Significant increase in yields (CMCase 463.9 ± 20.1 U/g, FPase 101.1 ± 3.5 U/g and β-glucosidase 99 ± 4.0 U/g) were obtained under optimized conditions. Effect of different nutritional parameters was studied to induce the maximum production of cellulase complex. Scale-up studies for enzyme production process were carried out. Characterization studies showed that enzymes produced by A. niger NS-2 were highly temperature- and pH stable. At 50 °C, the half life for CMCase, FPase, β-glucosidase were approximately 240 h. Cellulases from A. niger NS-2 were stable at 35 °C for 24 h over a broader pH range of 3.0-9.0. We examined the feasibility of using steam pretreatment to increase the saccharification yields from various lignocellulosic residues for sugar release which can potentially be used in bioethanol production. Saccharification of pretreated dry potato peels, carrot peels, composite waste mixture, orange peels, onion peels, banana peels, pineapple peels by crude enzyme extract from A. niger NS-2, resulted in very high cellulose conversion efficiencies of 92-98 %.

Fitness costs associated with infections of secondary endosymbionts in the cassava whitefly species Bemisia tabaci.

PubMed

Ghosh, Saptarshi; Bouvaine, Sophie; Richardson, Simon C W; Ghanim, Murad; Maruthi, M N

2018-01-01

We investigated the dual effects of bacterial infections and diseased cassava plants on the fitness and biology of the Bemisia tabaci infesting cassava in Africa. Isofemale B. tabaci colonies of sub-Saharan Africa 1-subgroup 3 (SSA1-SG3), infected with two secondary endosymbiotic bacteria Arsenophonus and Rickettsia (AR+) and those free of AR infections (AR-), were compared for fitness parameters on healthy and East African cassava mosaic virus -Uganda variant (EACMV-UG)-infected cassava plants. The whitefly fecundity and nymph development was not affected by bacterial infections or the infection of cassava by the virus. However, emergence of adults from nymphs was 50 and 17% higher by AR- on healthy and virus-infected plants, respectively, than AR+ flies. Development time of adults also was 10 days longer in AR+ than AR-. The whiteflies were further compared for acquisition and retention of EACMV-UG. Higher proportion of AR- acquired (91.8%) and retained (87.6%) the virus than AR+ (71.8, 61.2%, respectively). Similarly, the AR- flies retained higher quantities of virus (~ninefold more) than AR+. These results indicated that bacteria-free whiteflies were superior and better transmitters of EACMV-UG, as they had higher adult emergence, quicker life cycle and better virus retention abilities than those infected with bacteria.

Bioaccumulation of nickel by E. sativa and role of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPRs) under nickel stress.

PubMed

Kamran, Muhammad Aqeel; Eqani, Syed Ali Musstjab Akber Shah; Bibi, Sadia; Xu, Ren-Kou; Amna; Monis, Muhammad Farooq Hussain; Katsoyiannis, Athanasios; Bokhari, Habib; Chaudhary, Hassan Javed

2016-04-01

Phytoremediation potential of plants can be enhanced in association with microbes. Further, many plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria can improve growth under stress. The present study was conducted to investigate the effect of Pseudomonas putida (P. putida) on nickel (Ni) uptake and on growth of Eruca sativa (E. sativa). Three different levels of Ni (low; 150 ug/g, medium; 250 ug/g and high; 500 ug/g) were applied to the soil containing E. sativa seedlings, with or without P. putida. Ni-toxicity was measured by metamorphic parameters including shoot length, root length, biomass, chlorophyll and proline and Ni contents. Inoculation with P. putida increased 34% and 41% in root and shoot length and 38% and 24% in fresh, dry weight respectively, as compared to non-inoculated plants. Similarly, Ni uptake increased by up to 46% following P. putida inoculation as compared to non-inoculated plants. Indole acetic acid, siderophore and 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate deaminase (ACCD) activity in the growing media enhanced growth and Ni uptake in E. sativa. The present results offer insight on Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR), such as P. putida, for the potential to enhance the plant growth by inhibiting the adverse effects of Ni in E. sativa. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Development of wheat-Aegilops speltoides recombinants and simple PCR-based markers for Sr32 and a new stem rust resistance gene on the 2S#1 chromosome.

PubMed

Mago, Rohit; Verlin, Dawn; Zhang, Peng; Bansal, Urmil; Bariana, Harbans; Jin, Yue; Ellis, Jeffrey; Hoxha, Sami; Dundas, Ian

2013-12-01

Wheat- Aegilops speltoides recombinants carrying stem rust resistance genes Sr32 and SrAes1t effective against Ug99 and PCR markers for marker-assisted selection. Wild relatives of wheat are important resources for new rust resistance genes but underutilized because the valuable resistances are often linked to negative traits that prevent deployment of these genes in commercial wheats. Here, we report ph1b-induced recombinants with reduced alien chromatin derived from E.R. Sears' wheat-Aegilops speltoides 2D-2S#1 translocation line C82.2, which carries the widely effective stem rust resistance gene Sr32. Infection type assessments of the recombinants showed that the original translocation in fact carries two stem rust resistance genes, Sr32 on the short arm and a previously undescribed gene SrAes1t on the long arm of chromosome 2S#1. Recombinants with substantially shortened alien chromatin were produced for both genes, which confer resistance to stem rust races in the TTKSK (Ug99) lineage and representative races of all Australian stem rust lineages. Selected recombinants were back crossed into adapted Australian cultivars and PCR markers were developed to facilitate the incorporation of these genes into future wheat varieties. Our recombinants and those from several other labs now show that Sr32, Sr39, and SrAes7t on the short arm and Sr47 and SrAes1t on the long arm of 2S#1 form two linkage groups and at present no rust races are described that can distinguish these resistance specificities.

Validity and reliability of smartphone magnetometer-based goniometer evaluation of shoulder abduction--A pilot study.

PubMed

Johnson, Linda B; Sumner, Sean; Duong, Tina; Yan, Posu; Bajcsy, Ruzena; Abresch, R Ted; de Bie, Evan; Han, Jay J

2015-12-01

Goniometers are commonly used by physical therapists to measure range-of-motion (ROM) in the musculoskeletal system. These measurements are used to assist in diagnosis and to help monitor treatment efficacy. With newly emerging technologies, smartphone-based applications are being explored for measuring joint angles and movement. This pilot study investigates the intra- and inter-rater reliability as well as concurrent validity of a newly-developed smartphone magnetometer-based goniometer (MG) application for measuring passive shoulder abduction in both sitting and supine positions, and compare against the traditional universal goniometer (UG). This is a comparative study with repeated measurement design. Three physical therapists utilized both the smartphone MG and a traditional UG to measure various angles of passive shoulder abduction in a healthy subject, whose shoulder was positioned in eight different positions with pre-determined degree of abduction while seated or supine. Each therapist was blinded to the measured angles. Concordance correlation coefficients (CCCs), Bland-Altman plotting methods, and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) were used for statistical analyses. Both traditional UG and smartphone MG were reliable in repeated measures of standardized joint angle positions (average CCC > 0.997) with similar variability in both measurement tools (standard deviation (SD) ± 4°). Agreement between the UG and MG measurements was greater than 0.99 in all positions. Our results show that the smartphone MG has equivalent reliability compared to the traditional UG when measuring passive shoulder abduction ROM. With concordant measures and comparable reliability to the UG, the newly developed MG application shows potential as a useful tool to assess joint angles. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Effects of dietary propolis on the number and size of pleopadal egg, oxidative stress and antioxidant status of freshwater crayfish (Astacus leptodactylus Eschscholtz).

PubMed

Mişe Yonar, Serpil; Köprücü, Kenan; Yonar, Muhammet Enis; Silici, Sibel

2017-09-01

Four different crayfish diets; control, E1, E2 and E3, respectively containing 0, 1, 2 and 4% propolis, were tested to determine the effects of dietary propolis on the number and size of pleopadal egg, and malondialdehyde (MDA) level, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities in the freshwater crayfish (Astacus leptodactylus). The crayfish were kept at 9.6±5.3°C water temperature and fed three times daily during a six month period The pleopodal egg number (from 7 to 9) produced per gram of the body weight and total pleopodal egg number (from 201 to 263) significantly increased (P<0.05) with the dietary propolis supplemantation. However, an increase in the dietary propolis led to a significant decrease (P<0.05) in the pleopodal egg size (from 3.22mm to 2.76mm). MDA level significantly (P<0.05) decreased in the hepatopancreas (from 4.78 to 3.04 nmol/g protein) and ovarium (from 3.52 to 1.98 nmol/g protein) of the crayfish fed with the increased dietary propolis level. On the other hand, an increase in the dietary propolis led to a significant increase (P<0.05) in SOD activities in hepatopancreas (from 21.8 to 41.1U/g protein) and ovarium (from 16.8 to 26.8U/g protein). However, CAT activities significantly decreased (P<0.05) in the hepatopancreas (from 23.8 to 18.9 nmol/g protein) and ovarium (from 21.8 to 17.5 nmol/g protein) of the crayfish fed with the increased dietary propolis level. Similarly, an increase in the dietary propolis caused a significant decrease (P<0.05) in GSH-Px activities in the hepatopancreas (from 21.8 to 41.1U/g protein) and ovarium (from 16.8 to 26.8U/g protein) with the formation of the pleopodal egg. The dietary propolis improves reproductive efficiency in the crayfish and decreases the oxidative stress under controlled hatchery conditions. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Influence of socioeconomic factors and race on birth outcomes in urban Milwaukee.

PubMed

Ward, Trina C Salm; Mori, Naoyo; Patrick, Timothy B; Madsen, Mary K; Cisler, Ron A

2010-10-01

A national study found that infants born in low socioeconomic areas had the worst infant mortality rates (IMRs) and the highest racial disparity. Racial disparities in birth outcomes are also evident in the city of Milwaukee, with African American infants at 3 times greater the risk than white infants. This study was conducted to examine the influence of socioeconomic status (SES) and race on birth outcomes in the city of Milwaukee. Milwaukee ZIP codes were stratified into lower, middle, and upper SES groups. IMR, low birth weight, and preterm birth rates by race were analyzed by SES group for the years 2003 to 2007. The overall IMR for the lower, middle, and upper SES groups were 12.4, 10.7, and 7.7, respectively. The largest racial disparity in IMR (3.1) was in the middle SES group, versus lower (1.6) and upper (1.8) SES groups. The overall percent of low birth weight infants for the lower, middle, and upper SES groups was 10.9%, 9.5%, and 7.5%, respectively. Racial disparity ratios in low birth weight were 2.0, 1.9, and 1.9 for lower, middle and upper SES groups. The overall percent of preterm birth was 15.4%, 13.2%, and 10.6% of births within the lower, middle, and upper SES groups, respectively, with a disparity ratio of 1.6 across all SES groups. For all outcomes, African American infants born in the upper SES group fared the same or worse than white infants born in the lower SES group. Although higher SES appeared to have a protective effect for whites in Milwaukee, it did not have the same protective effect for African Americans.

Commentary: “An Evaluation of Universal Grammar and the Phonological Mind”—UG Is Still a Viable Hypothesis

PubMed Central

Berent, Iris

2016-01-01

Everett (2016b) criticizes The Phonological Mind thesis (Berent, 2013a,b) on logical, methodological and empirical grounds. Most of Everett’s concerns are directed toward the hypothesis that the phonological grammar is constrained by universal grammatical (UG) principles. Contrary to Everett’s logical challenges, here I show that the UG hypothesis is readily falsifiable, that universality is not inconsistent with innateness (Everett’s arguments to the contrary are rooted in a basic confusion of the UG phenotype and the genotype), and that its empirical evaluation does not require a full evolutionary account of language. A detailed analysis of one case study, the syllable hierarchy, presents a specific demonstration that people have knowledge of putatively universal principles that are unattested in their language and these principles are most likely linguistic in nature. Whether Universal Grammar exists remains unknown, but Everett’s arguments hardly undermine the viability of this hypothesis. PMID:27471480

Trustworthiness and Negative Affect Predict Economic Decision-Making.

PubMed

Nguyen, Christopher M; Koenigs, Michael; Yamada, Torricia H; Teo, Shu Hao; Cavanaugh, Joseph E; Tranel, Daniel; Denburg, Natalie L

2011-09-01

The Ultimatum Game (UG) is a widely used and well-studied laboratory model of economic decision-making. Here, we studied 129 healthy adults and compared demographic (i.e., age, gender, education), cognitive (i.e., intelligence, attention/working memory, speed, language, visuospatial, memory, executive functions), and personality (i.e., "Big Five", positive affect, negative affect) variables between those with a "rational" versus an "irrational" response pattern on the UG. Our data indicated that participants with "rational" UG performance (accepting any offer, no matter the fairness) endorsed higher levels of trust, or the belief in the sincerity and good intentions of others, while participants with "irrational" UG performance (rejecting unfair offers) endorsed higher levels of negative affect, such as anger and contempt. These personality variables were the only ones that differentiated the two response patterns-demographic and cognitive factors did not differ between rational and irrational players. The results indicate that the examination of personality and affect is crucial to our understanding of the individual differences that underlie decision-making.

Be Strong Enough to Say No: Self-Affirmation Increases Rejection to Unfair Offers

PubMed Central

Gu, Ruolei; Yang, Jing; Shi, Yuanyuan; Luo, Yi; Luo, Yu L. L.; Cai, Huajian

2016-01-01

We propose that self-affirmation may endow people more psychological resources to buffer against the negative influence of rejecting unfair offers in the classic ultimatum game (UG) and further lead to a stronger tendency to reject those offers. We tested this possibility by conducting an event-related potential (ERP) study about the UG, with the ERP component P3 as an indirect indicator of psychological resources. Participants were randomly assigned to the affirmation or control condition and then completed the UG through electrophysiological recording. As expected, the behavioral data indicated that compared with unaffirmed ones, affirmed participants were more likely to reject unfair UG offers; the electrophysiological data indicated that compared to the unaffirmed, affirmed participants showed a greater P3 in response to the presentation of an offer. These findings suggest that psychological resources may play a role in rejecting others beyond the fairness concern, and additionally shed light on the neural mechanisms underlying self-affirmation. PMID:27920742

Trustworthiness and Negative Affect Predict Economic Decision-Making

PubMed Central

Nguyen, Christopher M.; Koenigs, Michael; Yamada, Torricia H.; Teo, Shu Hao; Cavanaugh, Joseph E.; Tranel, Daniel; Denburg, Natalie L.

2012-01-01

The Ultimatum Game (UG) is a widely used and well-studied laboratory model of economic decision-making. Here, we studied 129 healthy adults and compared demographic (i.e., age, gender, education), cognitive (i.e., intelligence, attention/working memory, speed, language, visuospatial, memory, executive functions), and personality (i.e., “Big Five”, positive affect, negative affect) variables between those with a “rational” versus an “irrational” response pattern on the UG. Our data indicated that participants with “rational” UG performance (accepting any offer, no matter the fairness) endorsed higher levels of trust, or the belief in the sincerity and good intentions of others, while participants with “irrational” UG performance (rejecting unfair offers) endorsed higher levels of negative affect, such as anger and contempt. These personality variables were the only ones that differentiated the two response patterns—demographic and cognitive factors did not differ between rational and irrational players. The results indicate that the examination of personality and affect is crucial to our understanding of the individual differences that underlie decision-making. PMID:23493494

Effects of visibility and types of the ground surface on the muscle activities of the vastus medialis oblique and vastus lateralis

PubMed Central

Park, Jeong-ki; Lee, Dong-yeop; Kim, Jin-Seop; Hong, Ji-Heon; You, Jae-Ho; Park, In-mo

2015-01-01

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of visibility and types of ground surface (stable and unstable) during the performance of squats on the muscle activities of the vastus medialis oblique (VMO) and vastus lateralis (VL). [Subjects and Methods] The subjects were 25 healthy adults in their 20s. They performed squats under four conditions: stable ground surface (SGS) with vision-allowed; unstable ground surface (UGS) with vision-allowed; SGS with vision-blocked; and UGS with vision-blocked. The different conditions were performed on different days. Surface electromyogram (EMG) values were recorded. [Results] The most significant difference in the activity of the VMO and VL was observed when the subjects performed squats on the UGS, with their vision blocked. [Conclusion] For the selective activation of the VMO, performing squats on an UGS was effective, and it was more effective when subjects’ vision was blocked. PMID:26356407

Be Strong Enough to Say No: Self-Affirmation Increases Rejection to Unfair Offers.

PubMed

Gu, Ruolei; Yang, Jing; Shi, Yuanyuan; Luo, Yi; Luo, Yu L L; Cai, Huajian

2016-01-01

We propose that self-affirmation may endow people more psychological resources to buffer against the negative influence of rejecting unfair offers in the classic ultimatum game (UG) and further lead to a stronger tendency to reject those offers. We tested this possibility by conducting an event-related potential (ERP) study about the UG, with the ERP component P3 as an indirect indicator of psychological resources. Participants were randomly assigned to the affirmation or control condition and then completed the UG through electrophysiological recording. As expected, the behavioral data indicated that compared with unaffirmed ones, affirmed participants were more likely to reject unfair UG offers; the electrophysiological data indicated that compared to the unaffirmed, affirmed participants showed a greater P3 in response to the presentation of an offer. These findings suggest that psychological resources may play a role in rejecting others beyond the fairness concern, and additionally shed light on the neural mechanisms underlying self-affirmation.

Detection and genetic characterization of porcine group A rotaviruses in asymptomatic pigs in smallholder farms in East Africa: predominance of P[8] genotype resembling human strains.

PubMed

Amimo, J O; Junga, J O; Ogara, W O; Vlasova, A N; Njahira, M N; Maina, S; Okoth, E A; Bishop, R P; Saif, L J; Djikeng, A

2015-02-25

Viral enteritis is a serious problem accounting for deaths in neonatal animals and humans worldwide. The absence of surveillance programs and diagnostic laboratory facilities have resulted in a lack of data on rotavirus associated diarrheas in pigs in East Africa. Here we describe the incidence of group A rotavirus (RVA) infections in asymptomatic young pigs in East Africa. Of the 446 samples examined, 26.2% (117/446) were positive for RVA. More nursing piglets (78.7%) shed RVA than weaned (32.9%) and grower (5.8%) pigs. RVA incidence was higher in pigs that were either housed_free-range (77.8%) or tethered_free-range (29.0%) than those that were free-range or housed or housed-tethered pigs. The farms with larger herd size (>10 pigs) had higher RVA prevalence (56.5%) than farms with smaller herd size (24.1-29.7%). This study revealed that age, management system and pig density significantly (p<0.01) influenced the incidence of RVA infections, with housed_free-range management system and larger herd size showing higher risks for RVA infection. Partial (811-1604nt region) sequence of the VP4 gene of selected positive samples revealed that different genotypes (P[6], P[8] and P[13]) are circulating in the study area with P[8] being predominant. The P[6] strain shared nucleotide (nt) and amino acid (aa) sequence identity of 84.4-91.3% and 95.1-96.9%, respectively, with known porcine and human P[6] strains. The P[8] strains shared high nt and aa sequence identity with known human P[8] strains ranging from 95.6-100% to 92-100%, respectively. The P[13] strains shared nt and aa sequence identity of 83.6-91.7% and 89.3-96.4%, respectively, only with known porcine P[13] strains. No P[8] strains yielded RNA of sufficient quality/quantity for full genome sequencing. However analysis of the full genome constellation of the P[6], two P[13] and one untypeable strains revealed that the P[6] strain (Ke-003-5) genome constellation was G26-P[6]-I5-R1-C1-M1-A8-N1-T1-E1-H1, P[13] strains (Ug-049 and Ug-453) had G5-P[13]-I5-R1-C1-M1-A8-N1-T7-E1-H1 while the untypeable strain (Ug-218) had G5-P[?]-I5-R1-C1-M1-A8-N1-T1-E1-H? In conclusion, P[6] and P[8] genotypes detected were genetically closely related to human strains suggesting the possibility of interspecies transmission. Further studies are required to determine the role of RVA in swine enteric disease burden and to determine the genetic/antigenic heterogeneity of the circulating strains for development of accurate diagnostic tools and to implement appropriate prophylaxis programs. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Annual methane budgets of sheep grazing systems were regulated by grazing intensities in the temperate continental steppe: A two-year case study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Lei; Zhong, Mengying; Zhu, Yuhao; Yang, Helong; Johnson, Douglas A.; Rong, Yuping

2018-02-01

Methane (CH4) emission from animal husbandry accounts for a large percentage of anthropogenic contributions to CH4 emissions. Fully understanding of grazing management effects on the CH4 budget is essential for mitigating CH4 emissions in the temperate grazing steppe systems. Annual CH4 budgets for the sheep grazed steppes at various grazing intensities, un-grazing (UG, 0 sheep ha-1year-1), defer grazing (DG, 1.0 sheep ha-1 year-1), moderate grazing (MG, 1.43 sheep ha-1year-1), and heavy grazing (HG, 2.43 sheep ha-1year-1) were assessed across 2012-2014 in the agro-pastoral region of northern China. Annual soil CH4 uptake averaged across 2012-2014 were 1.1 ± 0.1, 2.4 ± 0.2, 2.2 ± 0.2, and 1.3 ± 0.1 kg CH4-C ha-1 for UG, DG (only 2013-2014), MG and HG sites. Non-growing season CH4 uptake comprised 50.0 ± 4.3% of annual CH4 uptake in 2012-2013 and 37.7 ± 2.0% in 2013-2014. DG and MG significantly promoted annual soil CH4 uptake (P < 0.05), while there was no difference between HG and UG (P > 0.05). Bell-shaped relationship was presented between stocking rates and soil CH4 uptake (r2 = 0.59, P < 0.05). Annual soil CH4 uptake significant linearly and positively correlated with root biomass (r2 = 0.30, P < 0.05). Annual CH4 budgets for the grazed grasslands were -1.1 ± 0.1, 5.7 ± 0.6, 11.5 ± 1.5 and 15.5 ± 1.3 kg CH4-C ha-1 year-1 in UG, DG (only 2013-2014), MG and HG across 2012-2014. Soil CH4 uptake could offset 29.7 ± 5.6, 15.9 ± 4.3 and 6.8 ± 1.0% of total annual CH4 emissions from sheep, sheepfold and faeces in DG, MG, and HG. All grazed steppes are sources for atmospheric CH4 and the magnitude is regulated by grazing intensities. Sheep CH4 emissions for 1-g liveweight gain were 0.21, 0.32 and 0.37 g CH4-C in DG, MG and HG, respectively. DG is the recommended grazing management in this region to achieve greater herbage mass, higher sheep performance and lower CH4 emissions simultaneously.

Long-term Effects of Shrub Encroachment and Grazing on Soil Microbial Composition and Function

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gallery, R. E.; O'Shea, C.; Kwiecien, A.; Predick, K.; Archer, S. R.

2014-12-01

Drylands account for ca. 35% of terrestrial net primary productivity and thus play a significant role in global water and biogeochemical cycles. Replacement of grasses by shrubs has been widespread in these systems and has altered rates of erosion and native plant biodiversity and productivity. The net effect of these changes on biogeochemical cycling is not well understood. Projected warmer and drier conditions may further alter the function and stability of these ecosystems and soil resources through direct effects on soil microbiota and plant-microbe interactions. We quantified microbial community responses to long-term livestock grazing and shrub encroachment in a Sonoran Desert grassland. We sought to characterize tipping points where biotic controls over ecosystem processes shift from being 'grass-driven' to 'shrub-driven.' We asked: How do livestock grazing (the predominant land use in dryland ecosystems) and shrub invasion (a predominant land cover change) interact to influence microbial biomass and the relative abundance of bacteria, archaea, and fungi and their extracellular enzyme activities? Surface soil from bare-ground patches, native and invasive grass rhizospheres, and bole and canopy dripline locations in patches of mature mesquite trees in long-term grazed and long-term (70+ y) protected pastures were collected and analyzed for microbial community composition, biomass, potential exoenzyme activities, and a suite of biogeochemical characteristics. We found no differences in microbial communities or the soils associated with native vs. exotic grasses. Overall, mesquite bole patches differed from other patches in all soil characteristics except potential enzyme activity: soil temperature was significantly lower, and total carbon (C) and soil moisture were significantly higher. Potential activities were lowest for bare ground and highest at shrub dripline patches for all seven exoenzymes tested. Mean potential activities for C and phosphorous (P) hydrolyzing enzymes in long-term protected pastures (C: 21.4 ug activity g-1 h-1 ± 2.3; P: 29.8 ug activity g-1 h-1 ± 3.5) were significantly higher than those in grazed pastures (C: 16.6 ug activity g-1 h-1 ± 2.1; P: 15.8 ug activity g-1 h-1 ± 2.5), suggesting long-term effects of past land use on current soil microbial populations.

Constraining the origin of the Messinian gypsum deposits using coupled measurement of δ^{18}O$/δD in gypsum hydration water and salinity of fluid inclusions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Evans, Nicholas P.; Gázquez, Fernando; McKenzie, Judith A.; Chapman, Hazel J.; Hodell, David A.

2016-04-01

We used oxygen and hydrogen isotopes of gypsum hydration water (GHW) coupled with salinity deduced from ice melting temperatures of primary fluid inclusions in the same samples (in tandem with 87Sr/86Sr, δ34S and other isotopic measurements) to determine the composition of the mother fluids that formed the gypsum deposits of the Messinian Salinity Crisis from shallow and intermediate-depth basins. Using this method, we constrain the origin of the Messinian Primary Lower Gypsum (PLG) of the Sorbas basin (Betic foreland) and both the Upper Gypsum (UG) and the Lower Gypsum of the Sicilian basin. We then compare these results to measurements made on UG recovered from the deep Ionian and Balearic basins drilled during DSDP Leg 42A. The evolution of GHW δ18O/δD vs. salinity is controlled by mixing processes between fresh and seawater, coupled with the degree of evaporation. Evaporation and subsequent precipitation of gypsum from fluids dominated by freshwater will result in a depressed 87Sr/86Sr values and different trajectory in δ18O/δD vs. salinity space compared to fluids dominated by seawater. The slopes of these regression equations help to define the end-members from which the fluid originated. For example, salinity estimates from PLG cycle 6 in the Sorbas basin range from 18 to 51ppt, and after correction for fractionation factors, estimated δ18O and δD values of the mother water are low (-2.6 < δ18O < 2.7‰ ; -16.2 < δD < 15.8‰). The intercepts of the regression equations (i.e. at zero salinity) are within error of the average isotope composition of the modern precipitation and groundwater in this region of SE Spain. This indicates there was a significant contribution of meteoric water during gypsum deposition, while 87Sr/86Sr (0.708942 < 87Sr/86Sr < 0.708971) indicate the ions originated from the dissolution of previously marine evaporites. Gypsum from cycle 2 displays similar mother water values (-2.4 < δ18O < 2.4‰ ; -13.2 < δD < 17.0‰) to cycle 6, but salinities of fluid inclusions are higher averaging ˜100ppt. In contrast to cycle 6, the intercepts of the regression equations of cycle 2 display more positive δ18O/δD values. While the estimated range in δ18O and δD of the mother water and salinities fall below those expected from the evaporation of seawater alone, the slope of the regression equation is similar to that of seawater evaporation. This implies that there is a change up-section from a dominantly marine environment in cycle 2 to a greater influence of meteoric water in cycle 6. The UG from the Sicilian basin display greater δ18O/δD values (2.9 < δ18O < 6.0‰ ; 16.6 < δD < 38.3‰) compared to the PLG of Sorbas, with average salinities of ˜90ppt. The intercept of the regression equations are similar to those of Sorbas cycle 6, indicating the mother fluid was composed of a large percentage of meteoric water that subsequently underwent intense evaporation. This observation concurs with the low values of 87Sr/86Sr from the same UG samples (0.708745 < 87Sr/86Sr < 0.708810) that have been interpreted previously to reflect a substantial dilution of Mediterranean surface water during this period, and with brackish to fresh-water fauna described from the associated marl of the UG in other studies. Ongoing analyses will test if this pattern of intense evaporation of a predominately meteoric mother fluid is reflected in the isotopic composition of the UG deposited in the deep Ionian and Balearic basins.

The records of terrestrial and marine biomarkers in South China Sea EXP349 Sites U1432C and U1433A, B: Implications for East Asian monsoon variability and paleoceanographic variations.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

hyun, Sangmin; kim, Songyi

2016-04-01

Marine and terrestrial biomarkers, alkenones and n-alkanes compound, were investigated in sediment taken from the South China Sea (SCS) IODP Sites Exp. U1432C, U1433A and U1433B to evaluate Asian monsoon variability and paleoceanographic variations. Alkenone-based sea surface temperature (SSTalk) from the northern Site (U1432C) ranges from approximately 18.2oC to 28.3oC with an average of 24.4oC (n=65). Estimated SSTalk were slightly higher in the southern Site U1433A than at U1432C. SSTalk in Site U1433A ranges from 24.3oC to 27.4oC with an average 26.1oC (n=32), showing as much as 1.7oC higher SSTs than at U1432C. High concentrations of n-alkanes (nC21-35) are present throughout the Site SC1432C with strong fluctuations in the upper part (average = 496ug/g, n=140). The much higher records at U1433A and U1433B show long-range variations, but the concentration of n-alkanes remains constant below 244mbsf in Site 1433B (less than 200ug/g), suggesting an important change occurred at this horizon, dividing two different environmental domains. These differences in SSTalk and n-alkane concentration between two Sites might not only link with latitudinal location but also the influx of terrestrial biomarker due to the Asian monsoon variability and local oceanographic variations since the last approximately 1.5 Ma. Several indices of Average Chain Length (ACL) and Carbon Preferences Index (ICP) showed large shifts and fluctuations in both Sites. In particular, one of the paleo-plant proxy, Paq, also shows time-dependent large fluctuations in both Sites suggesting long time-scale variations in the flux of terrestrial organic compound as well as paleoclimatic changes in the East Asian area.

Arsenic hazards to humans, plants, and animals from gold mining

USGS Publications Warehouse

Eisler, R.

2004-01-01

Arsenic sources to the biosphere associated with gold mining include waste soil and rocks, residual water from ore concentrations, roasting of some types of gold-containing ores to remove sulfur and sulfur oxides, and bacterially-enhanced leaching. Arsenic concentrations near gold mining operations were elevated in abiotic materials and biota: maximum total arsenic concentrations measured were 560 ug/L in surface waters, 5.16 mg/L in sediment pore waters, 5.6 mg/kg dry weight (DW) in bird liver, 27 mg/kg DW in terrestrial grasses, 50 mg/kg DW in soils, 79 mg/kg DW in aquatic plants, 103 mg/kg DW in bird diets, 225 mg/kg DW in soft parts of bivalve molluscs, 324 mg/L in mine drainage waters, 625 mg/kg DW in aquatic insects, 7700 mg/kg DW in sediments, and 21,000 mg/kg DW in tailings. Single oral doses of arsenicals that were fatal to 50% of tested species ranged from 17 to 48 mg/kg body weight (BW) in birds and from 2.5 to 33 mg/kg BW in mammals. Susceptible species of mammals were adversely affected at chronic doses of 1 to 10 mg As/kg BW, or 50 mg As/kg diet. Sensitive aquatic species were damaged at water concentrations of 19 to 48 ug As/L, 120 mg As/kg diet, or tissue residues (in the case of freshwater fish) >1.3 mg/kg fresh weight. Adverse effects to crops and vegetation were recorded at 3 to 28 mg of water-soluble As/L (equivalent to about 25 to 85 mg total As/kg soil) and at atmospheric concentrations >3.9 ug As/m3. Gold miners had a number of arsenic-associated health problems including excess mortality from cancer of the lung, stomach, and respiratory tract. Miners and schoolchildren in the vicinity of gold mining activities had elevated urine arsenic of 25.7 ug/L (range 2.2-106.0 ug/L). Of the total population at this location, 20% showed elevated urine arsenic concentrations associated with future adverse health effects; arsenic-contaminated drinking water is the probable causative factor of elevated arsenic in urine. Proposed arsenic criteria to protect human health and natural resources are listed and discussed. Many of these proposed criteria do not adequately protect sensitive species.

Second Language Acquisition and Universal Grammar.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

White, Lydia

1990-01-01

Discusses the motivation for Universal Grammar (UG), as assumed in the principles and parameters framework of generative grammar (Chomsky, 1981), focusing on the logical problem of first-language acquisition and the potential role of UG in second-language acquisition. Recent experimental research regarding the second-language status of the…

Mirror therapy in complex regional pain syndrome type 1 of the upper limb in stroke patients.

PubMed

Cacchio, Angelo; De Blasis, Elisabetta; De Blasis, Vincenzo; Santilli, Valter; Spacca, Giorgio

2009-10-01

Complex regional pain syndrome type 1 (CRPSt1) of the upper limb is a painful and debilitating condition, frequent after stroke, and interferes with the rehabilitative process and outcome. However, treatments used for CRPSt1 of the upper limb are limited. . This randomized controlled study was conducted to compare the effectiveness on pain and upper limb function of mirror therapy on CRPSt1 of upper limb in patients with acute stroke. . Of 208 patients with first episode of unilateral stroke admitted to the authors' rehabilitation center, 48 patients with CRPSt1 of the affected upper limb were enrolled in a randomized controlled study, with a 6-month follow-up, and assigned to either a mirror therapy group or placebo control group. The primary end points were a reduction in the visual analogue scale score of pain at rest, on movement, and brush-induced tactile allodynia. The secondary end points were improvement in motor function as assessed by the Wolf Motor Function Test and Motor Activity Log. . The mean scores of both the primary and secondary end points significantly improved in the mirror group (P < .001). No statistically significant improvement was observed in any of the control group values (P > .001). Moreover, statistically significant differences after treatment (P < .001) and at the 6-month follow-up were found between the 2 groups. . The results indicate that mirror therapy effectively reduces pain and enhances upper limb motor function in stroke patients with upper limb CRPSt1.

A low-noise MEMS accelerometer for unattended ground sensor applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Speller, Kevin E.; Yu, Duli

2004-09-01

A low-noise micro-machined servo accelerometer has been developed for use in Unattended Ground Sensors (UGS). Compared to conventional coil-and-magnet based velocity transducers, this Micro-Electro-Mechanical System (MEMS) accelerometer offers several key benefits for battlefield monitoring. Many UGS require a compass to determine deployment orientation with respect to magnetic North. This orientation information is critical for determining the bearing of incoming signals. Conventional sensors with sensing technology based on a permanent magnet can cause interference with a compass when used in close proximity. This problem is solved with a MEMS accelerometer which does not require any magnetic materials. Frequency information below 10 Hz is valuable for identification of signal sources. Conventional seismometers used in UGS are typically limited in frequency response from 20 to 200 Hz. The MEMS accelerometer has a flat frequency response from DC to 5 kHz. The wider spectrum of signals received improves detection, classification and monitoring on the battlefield. The DC-coupled output of the MEMS accelerometer also has the added benefit of providing tilt orientation data for the deployed UGS. Other performance parameters of the MEMS accelerometer that are important to UGS such as size, weight, shock survivability, phase response, distortion, and cross-axis rejection will be discussed. Additionally, field test data from human footsteps recorded with the MEMS accelerometer will be presented.

Cooperative Behavior in the Ultimatum Game and Prisoner’s Dilemma Depends on Players’ Contributions

PubMed Central

Bland, Amy R.; Roiser, Jonathan P.; Mehta, Mitul A.; Schei, Thea; Sahakian, Barbara J.; Robbins, Trevor W.; Elliott, Rebecca

2017-01-01

Economic games such as the Ultimatum Game (UG) and Prisoner’s Dilemma (PD) are widely used paradigms for studying fairness and cooperation. Monetary versions of these games involve two players splitting an arbitrary sum of money. In real life, however, people’s propensity to engage in cooperative behavior depends on their effort and contribution; factors that are well known to affect perceptions of fairness. We therefore sought to explore the impact of relative monetary contributions by players in the UG and PD. Adapted computerized UG and PD games, in which relative contributions from each player were manipulated, were administered to 200 participants aged 18–50 years old (50% female). We found that players’ contribution had large effects on cooperative behavior. Specifically, cooperation was greater amongst participants when their opponent had contributed more to joint earnings. This was manifested as higher acceptance rates and higher offers in the UG; and fewer defects in the PD compared to when the participant contributed more. Interestingly, equal contributions elicited the greatest sensitivity to fairness in the UG, and least frequent defection in the PD. Acceptance rates correlated positively with anxiety and sex differences were found in defection behavior. This study highlights the feasibility of computerized games to assess cooperative behavior and the importance of considering cooperation within the context of effortful contribution. PMID:28670295

Biochemical Effects of six Ti02 and four Ce02 Nanomaterials ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Abstract The potential mammalian hepatotoxicity of nanomaterials were explored in dose-response and structure-activity studies with human hepatic HepG2 cells exposed to between 10 and 1000 ug/ml of six different TiO2 and four CeO2 nanomaterials for 3 days. Various biochemical parameters were then evaluated to study cytotoxicity, cell growth, hepatic function and oxidative stress. Few indications of cytotoxicity were observed between 10 and 100 ug/ml. In the 300 to 1000 ug/ml exposure range a moderate to substantial degree of cytotoxicity was observed. The percent of lactic dehydrogenase released from cells was the most sensitive cytotoxicity parameter. There were four major biochemical effects observed. By far decreased activities of glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase was the major finding of this enzymatic study with some significant decreases observed at 10 ug/ml. In the range of 100 to 1000 ug/ml, the activities of superoxide dismutase, glutathione reductase and glutathione peroxidase were decreased by many nanomaterials. There are six factors that contribute to substantial oxidative stress in cultured hepatocytes (decreased GSH content, and reduced G6PDH, GRD, GPX, SOD and altered catalase activities). Cytotoxicity per se did not seem to fully explain the patterns of biological responses observed. With respect to structure-activity, nanomaterials of CeO2 were more effective than TiO2 in reducing glutathione reductase and SOD activ

Role of CXCR4 in Cell-Cell Fusion and Infection of Monocyte-Derived Macrophages by Primary Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 (HIV-1) Strains: Two Distinct Mechanisms of HIV-1 Dual Tropism

PubMed Central

Yi, Yanjie; Isaacs, Stuart N.; Williams, Darlisha A.; Frank, Ian; Schols, Dominique; De Clercq, Erik; Kolson, Dennis L.; Collman, Ronald G.

1999-01-01

Dual-tropic human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) strains infect both primary macrophages and transformed T-cell lines. Prototype T-cell line-tropic (T-tropic) strains use CXCR4 as their principal entry coreceptor (X4 strains), while macrophagetropic (M-tropic) strains use CCR5 (R5 strains). Prototype dual tropic strains use both coreceptors (R5X4 strains). Recently, CXCR4 expressed on macrophages was found to support infection by certain HIV-1 isolates, including the dual-tropic R5X4 strain 89.6, but not by T-tropic X4 prototypes like 3B. To better understand the cellular basis for dual tropism, we analyzed the macrophage coreceptors used for Env-mediated cell-cell fusion as well as infection by several dual-tropic HIV-1 isolates. Like 89.6, the R5X4 strain DH12 fused with and infected both wild-type and CCR5-negative macrophages. The CXCR4-specific inhibitor AMD3100 blocked DH12 fusion and infection in macrophages that lacked CCR5 but not in wild-type macrophages. This finding indicates two independent entry pathways in macrophages for DH12, CCR5 and CXCR4. Three primary isolates that use CXCR4 but not CCR5 (tybe, UG021, and UG024) replicated efficiently in macrophages regardless of whether CCR5 was present, and AMD3100 blocking of CXCR4 prevented infection in both CCR5 negative and wild-type macrophages. Fusion mediated by UG021 and UG024 Envs in both wild-type and CCR5-deficient macrophages was also blocked by AMD3100. Therefore, these isolates use CXCR4 exclusively for entry into macrophages. These results confirm that macrophage CXCR4 can be used for fusion and infection by primary HIV-1 isolates and indicate that CXCR4 may be the sole macrophage coreceptor for some strains. Thus, dual tropism can result from two distinct mechanisms: utilization of both CCR5 and CXCR4 on macrophages and T-cell lines, respectively (dual-tropic R5X4), or the ability to efficiently utilize CXCR4 on both macrophages and T-cell lines (dual-tropic X4). PMID:10438797

Biodegradation of HT Agent from an Assembled Chemical Weapons Assessment (ACWA) Projectile Washout Study

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-09-01

SVOC Dithiane isomer 170 J u1/I SVOC Hexadecenoic acid , Z- 11- JN 95 ug// SVOC Naphtho[2,3-b]thiophene, 4,9-dimethyl- 650 JN ug/l SVOC Oxirane, 2,3...were operated at ambient room temperature (23 to 25 ’C). Because the biodegradation of TDG produces sulfuric acid , pH control is essential. A pH... acid 3.00 NaOH Enough to allow Nitrilotriacetic acid to dissolve MgC12 4H20 6.95 MnC12 0.66 FeC12 0.23 CaC12 2H 20 0.07 COC12 6H 20 0.10 ZnC12

Development and Psychometric Testing of the Strategy Inventory for Language Learning (SILL). Appendix

DTIC Science & Technology

1986-11-01

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Undetected Groundwater Contamination at Underground Storage Tank Sites by the Gasoline Lead Scavengers Ethylene Dibromide and 1,2-Dichloroethane

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Falta, R. W.

2004-05-01

Ethylene dibromide (EDB) is a synthetic organic chemical that was produced in large amounts for use as a leaded gasoline additive and pesticide. The chlorinated solvent 1,2-dichlorethane (1,2-DCA) is widely used in the chemical industry, and was also added to leaded gasoline. EDB and 1,2-DCA are classified as probable human carcinogens by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and EDB's use as a pesticide was suspended in 1984. The current EPA maximum contaminant level (MCL) for EDB in drinking water is 0.05 ug/l, and the MCL for 1,2-DCA is 5 ug/l. EDB has proven to be both mobile and persistent in groundwater, and contamination of groundwater by EDB was documented in several states beginning in the early 1980s. The majority of this contamination is attributed to agricultural uses of EDB, however approximately 90 percent of the EDB produced was used as a leaded gasoline additive, and it was present in virtually all leaded gasoline sold in the US. 1,2-DCA is commonly found as a groundwater contaminant, and it is both mobile and persistent. Past site investigations and remediation efforts at underground storage tank sites contaminated by leaded gasoline have rarely addressed the potential for EDB or 1,2-DCA contamination. However, the concentrations of EDB and 1,2-DCA in leaded gasoline were high enough to produce groundwater concentrations of thousands of ug/l. For this reason, there is a substantial likelihood that undetected EDB and 1,2-DCA plumes above the MCL may exist at many sites where leaded gasoline leaked or spilled. An initial review of field data from underground storage tank sites in two states suggests that this problem is widespread.

46 CFR 54.01-35 - Corrosion (modifies UG- 25).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Corrosion (modifies UG- 25). 54.01-35 Section 54.01-35 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS... weather or mechanical damage are not acceptable. Note: No applied linings except as provided in Part UCL...

46 CFR 54.01-35 - Corrosion (modifies UG- 25).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Corrosion (modifies UG- 25). 54.01-35 Section 54.01-35 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS... weather or mechanical damage are not acceptable. Note: No applied linings except as provided in Part UCL...

46 CFR 54.01-35 - Corrosion (modifies UG- 25).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Corrosion (modifies UG- 25). 54.01-35 Section 54.01-35 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS... weather or mechanical damage are not acceptable. Note: No applied linings except as provided in part UCL...

46 CFR 54.01-35 - Corrosion (modifies UG- 25).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Corrosion (modifies UG- 25). 54.01-35 Section 54.01-35 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS... weather or mechanical damage are not acceptable. Note: No applied linings except as provided in Part UCL...

46 CFR 54.01-35 - Corrosion (modifies UG- 25).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Corrosion (modifies UG- 25). 54.01-35 Section 54.01-35 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING PRESSURE VESSELS... weather or mechanical damage are not acceptable. Note: No applied linings except as provided in part UCL...

Biodiversity in the city: key challenges for urban green space management

Treesearch

Myla F.J. Aronson; Christopher A. Lepczyk; Karl L. Evans; Mark A. Goddard; Susannah B. Lerman; J. Scott MacIvor; Charles H. Nilon; Timothy Vargo

2017-01-01

Cities play important roles in the conservation of global biodiversity, particularly through the planning and management of urban green spaces (UGS). However, UGS management is subject to a complex assortment of interacting social, cultural, and economic factors, including governance, economics, social networks, multiple stakeholders, individual preferences, and social...

Gene and protein expression biomarkers in fungicide exposed zebrafish

EPA Science Inventory

In this study, the impact of prochloraz (PCZ) on reproductively mature male and female zebrafish was examined following up to 96 h continuous exposure to a flow-through system to control (water only), low (100 ug/l) and high (500 ug/l) PCZ dose. An imidazole fungicide used to rpo...

SPATIAL LEARNING DEFICITS ARE NOT SOLELY DUE TO CHOLINERGIC DEFICITS FOLLOWING MEDIAL SEPTAL LESIONS WITH COLCHICINE

EPA Science Inventory

Colchicinc was infused bilaterally into the cerebrolateral ventricles (3.75 ug/side) or directly into the medial septum (5 ug) of adult, male Fischer-344 rats (n=48) and effects on behavior and cholinergic markers were determined. ats receiving intracerebroventricular (ICV) admin...

Bell Inequalities and Group Symmetry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bolonek-Lasoń, Katarzyna

2017-12-01

Recently the method based on irreducible representations of finite groups has been proposed as a tool for investigating the more sophisticated versions of Bell inequalities (V. Ugǔr Gűney, M. Hillery, Phys. Rev. A90, 062121 ([2014]) and Phys. Rev. A91, 052110 ([2015])). In the present paper an example based on the symmetry group S 4 is considered. The Bell inequality violation due to the symmetry properties of regular tetrahedron is described. A nonlocal game based on the inequalities derived is described and it is shown that the violation of Bell inequality implies that the quantum strategies outperform their classical counterparts.

Smog exposure and host resistance to respiratory pathogens ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

The US EPA is evaluating the health effects of photochemical smog on respiratory, cardiovascular and metabolic health (https://www.epa.gov/air-research/secondary-organic-aerosol-soas-research). Smog exposure has been associated with an increased risk of allergy and decreased resistance to respiratory infections; we therefore investigated the effects of smog on the host response to respiratory pathogens. Atmospheres were generated in a chamber fed with selected hydrocarbons (gasoline + -pinene-“smog A” or gasoline +isoprene-“smog B”), and subjected to ultraviolet light. Final chamber concentrations were 252 ppb NO2, 104 ppb O3, and 1070 ug/m3 secondary organic aerosol, SOA) (Smog A) or 617 ppb NO2, 376 ppb O3, and 53 ug/m3 SOA (Smog B). Balb/C female mice were exposed to filtered air or smog for 4 h/d X 5 d; subgroups of control and exposed mice were either immunized with heat-killed Streptococcus pneumoniae (HKSP; smog A) or infected with mouse-adapted influenza A/Puerto Rico/8/34 (H1N1) on the first or last day of exposure. Mice were necropsied 7 d after immunization or infection and markers of lung damage and resistance to infection were assessed. Exposure to smog A did not alter the concentration of antibody to HKSP in the serum or concentrations of protein, lactate dehydrogenase or leukocyte concentrations in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF),although the % neutrophils was greater in the post-exposure air group. Virus burdens were similar i

Thermal stress and diabetic complications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ohtsuka, Yoshinori; Yabunaka, Noriyuki; Watanabe, Ichiro; Noro, Hiroshi; Fujisawa, Hiroyuki; Agishi, Yuko

1995-06-01

Activities of erythrocyte aldose reductase were compared in 34 normal subjects, 45 diabetic patients, and nine young men following immersion in water at 25, 39, and 42° C. Mean basal enzyme activity was 1.11 (SEM 0.12) U/g Hb and 2.07 (SEM 0.14) U/g Hb in normal controls and diabetic patients, respectively ( P<0.0001). Activities of the enzyme showed a good correlation with hemaglobin A1 (HbA1) concentrations ( P<0.01) but not with fasting plasma glucose concentrations. After immersion at 42° C for 10 min, enzyme activity was increased by 37.6% ( P<0.01); however, the activity decreased by 52.2% ( P<0.005) after immersion for 10 min at 39° C and by 47.0% ( P<0.05) at 25° C. These changes suggest that heat stress might aggravate diabetic complications, and body exposure to hot environmental conditions is not recommended for diabetic patients.

Noble magnetic barriers in the ASDEX UG tokamak

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ali, Halima; Punjabi, Alkesh; Vazquez, Justin

2010-02-01

The second-order perturbation method of creating invariant tori inside chaos in Hamiltonian systems (Ali, H.; Punjabi, A. Plasma Phys. Contr. F. 2007, 49, 1565-1582) is applied to the axially symmetric divertor experiment upgrade (ASDEX UG) tokamak to build noble irrational magnetic barriers inside chaos created by resonant magnetic perturbations (m, n)=(3, 2)+(4, 3), with m and n the poloidal and toroidal mode numbers of the Fourier expansion of the magnetic perturbation. The radial dependence of the Fourier modes is ignored. The modes are considered to be locked and have the same amplitude δ. A symplectic mathematical mapping in magnetic coordinates is used to integrate magnetic field line trajectories in the ASDEX UG. Tori with noble irrational rotational transform are the last ones to be destroyed by perturbation in Hamiltonian systems. For this reason, noble irrational magnetic barriers are built inside chaos, and the strongest noble irrational barrier is identified. Three candidate locations for the strongest noble barrier in ASDEX UG are selected. All three candidate locations are chosen to be roughly midway between the resonant rational surfaces ψ32 and ψ43. ψ is the magnetic coordinate of the flux surface. The three candidate surfaces are the noble irrational surfaces close to the surface with q value that is a mediant of q=3/2 and 4/3, q value of the physical midpoint of the two resonant surfaces, and the q value of the surface where the islands of the two perturbing modes just overlap. These q values of the candidate surfaces are denoted by q MED, q MID, and q OVERLAP. The strongest noble barrier close to q MED has the continued fraction representation (CFR) [1;2,2,1∞] and exists for δ≤2.6599×10-4; the strongest noble barrier close to q MID has CFR [1;2,2,2,1∞] and exists for δ≤4.6311×10-4; and the strongest noble barrier close to q OVERLAP has CFR [1;2,2,6,2,1∞] and exists for δ≤1.367770×10-4. From these results, the strongest noble barrier is found to be close to the surface that is located physically exactly in the middle of the two resonant surfaces.

Biomonitoring of Environmental Status and Trends (BEST) Program: Environmental contaminants, health indicators, and reproductive biomarkers in fish from the Mobile, Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint, Savannah, and Pee Dee River Basins

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hinck, Jo Ellen; Blazer, Vicki; Denslow, Nancy D.; Echols, Kathy R.; Gale, Robert W.; May, Tom W.; Claunch, Rachael; Wieser, Carla; Anderson, Patrick J.; Coyle, James J.; Gross, Timothy S.; Tillitt, Donald E.

2007-01-01

Largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) and common carp (Cyprinus carpio) were collected from 13 sites in 4 river basins in the southeastern United States to document spatial trends in accumulative contaminants, health indicators, and reproductive biomarkers. Organochlorine residues, 2,3,7,8- tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin-like activity (TCDD-EQ), and elemental contaminants were measured in composite samples of whole fish, grouped by species and gender, from each site. Fish were field-examined for external and internal anomalies, selected organs were weighed to compute somatic indices, and tissue and fluid samples were preserved for fish health and reproductive biomarker analyses. Mercury concentrations in bass samples from all sites exceeded toxicity thresholds for mammals [>0.1 micrograms per gram wet weight (ug/g ww)], fish (>0.2 ug/g ww), and birds (>0.3 ug/g ww) and were greatest (>0.5 ug/g ww) in samples from the Alabama River at Eureka Landing, Alabama; the Mobile River at Bucks, Alabama; the Apalachicola River at Blountstown, Florida; the Savannah River at Sylvania, Georgia; and the Pee Dee River at Bucksport, South Carolina. Selenium concentrations were relatively high (>0.75 ug/g ww) in fish from the Tombigbee River at Lavaca, Alabama; the Mobile River at Bucks; and the Chattahoochee River at Omaha, Georgia compared to those from other sites. Concentrations of 2,2-bis (p-chlorophenyl)- 1,1-dichloroethylene (p,p'-DDE) were high in fish from the Chattahoochee River at Omaha and the Mobile River near Bucks, which was near a 2,2-bis (p-chlorophenyl)-1,1- dichloroethylene (DDT) formulating facility that historically discharged into the lower Mobile River. Toxaphene concentrations in fish from the Flint River near Albany, Georgia (60-100 nanograms per gram (ng/g) ww) may pose a risk to fish. Concentrations of other formerly used (total chlordanes, dieldrin, endrin, aldrin, mirex, and hexachlorobenzene) and currently used (pentachlorobenzene, pentachloroanisole, dacthal, endosulfan, y-HCH, and methoxychlor) organochlorine residues generally were low or did not exceed toxicity thresholds. Total polychlorinated biphenyls concentrations in samples from the Coosa River at Childersburg, Alabama; the Apalachicola River at Omaha; the Apalachicola River at Blountstown; and the Pee Dee River at Bucksport were >480 ng/g ww and may be a risk to piscivorous wildlife. Dioxin-like activity as measured by TCDD-EQ was greatest [>10 picograms per gram (pg/g)] in male fish from the Coosa River at Childersburg and the Mobile River at Bucks. Hepatic ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase activity generally was greatest in carp from the Mobile River Basin [means >10 picomols per minute per milligram of protein (pmol/min/mg)] and in bass from the Tombigbee River at Lavaca and Pee Dee River at Pee Dee, South Carolina (means >65 pmol/min/mg). Altered biomarkers were noted in fish from all basins. The field necropsy and histopathological examination determined that fish from the Mobile River Basin generally were in poorer health than those from the other basins. In bass, health assessment index scores were correlated with mercury and p,p'-DDE concentrations. High health assessment index scores in Mobile River Basin fish were widespread and caused primarily by parasitic infestations, which were most severe in fish from the Tombigbee River at Lavaca and the Alabama River at Eureka Landing. Tumors were present in few fish (n = 5; 0.01%). Ovarian tumors of the same origin (smooth muscle) were present in two older carp from the Chattahoochee River near Omaha, Georgia and may be contaminant related. Reproductive biomarkers including gonadosomatic index, vitellogenin concentrations, and steroid hormone concentrations were anomalous in fish from various sites but were not consistently related to any particular chemical contaminant. Intersex gonads were identified in 47 male bass (42%) representing 12 sites and may indicate exposure to endocrine disrupting comp

High-Intensity Intermittent Training Positively Affects Aerobic and Anaerobic Performance in Judo Athletes Independently of Exercise Mode

PubMed Central

Franchini, Emerson; Julio, Ursula F.; Panissa, Valéria L. G.; Lira, Fábio S.; Gerosa-Neto, José; Branco, Braulio H. M.

2016-01-01

Purpose: The present study investigated the effects of high-intensity intermittent training (HIIT) on lower- and upper-body graded exercise and high-intensity intermittent exercise (HIIE, four Wingate bouts) performance, and on physiological and muscle damage markers responses in judo athletes. Methods: Thirty-five subjects were randomly allocated to a control group (n = 8) or to one of the following HIIT groups (n = 9 for each) and tested pre- and post-four weeks (2 training d·wk−1): (1) lower-body cycle-ergometer; (2) upper-body cycle-ergometer; (3) uchi-komi (judo technique entrance). All HIIT were constituted by two blocks of 10 sets of 20 s of all out effort interspersed by 10 s set intervals and 5-min between blocks. Results: For the upper-body group there was an increase in maximal aerobic power in graded upper-body exercise test (12.3%). The lower-body group increased power at onset blood lactate in graded upper-body exercise test (22.1%). The uchi-komi group increased peak power in upper- (16.7%) and lower-body (8.5%), while the lower-body group increased lower-body mean power (14.2%) during the HIIE. There was a decrease in the delta blood lactate for the uchi-komi training group and in the third and fourth bouts for the upper-body training group. Training induced testosterone-cortisol ratio increased in the lower-body HIIE for the lower-body (14.9%) and uchi-komi (61.4%) training groups. Conclusion: Thus, short-duration low-volume HIIT added to regular judo training was able to increase upper-body aerobic power, lower- and upper-body HIIE performance. PMID:27445856

Occurrence of porphyromonas gingivalis and its antibacterial susceptibility to metronidazole and tetracycline in patients with chronic periodontitis.

PubMed

Gamboa, Fredy; Acosta, Adriana; García, Dabeiba-Adriana; Velosa, Juliana; Araya, Natalia; Ledergerber, Roberto

2014-01-01

Chronic periodontitis is a multifactorial infectious disease associated with Gram-negative strict anaerobes which are immersed in the subgingival biofilm. Porphyromonas gingivalis, an important periodontal pathogen, is frequently detected in patients with chronic periodontitis. Although isolates of P. gingivalis tend to be susceptible to most antimicrobial agents, relatively little information is available on its in vitro antimicrobial susceptibility. The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of P. gingivalis in patients with chronic periodontitis and to assess antimicrobial susceptibility in terms of minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of clinical isolates to metronidazole and tetracycline. A descriptive, observational study was performed including 87 patients with chronic periodontitis. Samples were taken from the periodontal pocket using paper points, which were placed in thioglycollate broth. Samples were incubated for 4 hours at 37°C in anaerobic conditions and finally replated on Wilkins-Chalgren anaerobic agar (Oxoid). Bacteria were identified using the RapIDTMANAII system (Remel) and antimicrobial susceptibility was determined with the M.I.C. Evaluator test (MICE, Oxoid). P. gingivalis was identified in 30 of the 87 patients with chronic periodontitis, which represents a frequency of 34.5%. All 30 isolates (100%) were sensitive to metronidazole, with MIC values ranging from 0015-4ug/ml. Regarding tetracycline, 27 isolates (90%) were sensitive, with MIC values ranging from <0.015 to 4 ug /ml, the remaining three isolates (10%) were resistant to tetracycline with MIC values of 8ug/ ml. There was no statistically significant difference in age, gender, pocket depth, clinical attachment level and severity of periodontitis between the group of patients with chronic periodontitis and P. gingivalis and the group of patients with chronic periodontitis without P. gingivalis. In conclusion, P. gingivalis was found at a frequency of 34.5% in patients with chronic periodontitis and clinical isolates were highly sensitive to metronidazole and tetracycline.

Plausible exploitation of Jatropha de-oiled seed cake for lipase and phytase production and simultaneous detoxification by Candida parapsilosis isolated from poultry garbage.

PubMed

Kannoju, Balakrishna; Ganapathiwar, Swaruparani; Nunavath, Hanumalal; Sunkar, Bindu; Bhukya, Bhima

2017-02-01

Jatropha de-oiled seed cake was explored to utilize as a basic nutrient source for Candida parapsilosis, isolated from poultry garbage and selected based on the production of lipase and phytase enzymes under submerged fermentation. At optimized parameters under solid-state fermentation, lipase and phytase activities were recorded as 1056.66±2.92 and 833±2.5U/g of substrate (U/g), respectively. Besides enzyme production, complete elimination of phorbol esters and significant phytate reduction from 6.51±0.01 to 0.43±0.01g/100g of seed cake were noted after 3days incubation. Curcin and trypsin inhibition activity were reduced significantly from 26.33±0.43 to 0.56±0.02mg/100g and 229.33±2.02 to 11.66±0.28U/g, respectively after 5days incubation. Saponins were reduced from 5.56±0.19 to 1.95±0.01g/100g of seed cake after 7days incubation. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Sound levels in conservative dentistry and endodontics clinic

PubMed Central

Dutta, Arindam; Mala, Kundabala; Acharya, Shashi Rashmi

2013-01-01

Aim: To evaluate the sound levels generated in dental clinics of conservative dentistry and endodontics. Material and Methods: A decibel-meter with digital readout was used to measure sound levels at different time intervals at the chairside and at the center of the clinic. Minimum and maximum readings during a 3 min interval were recorded. Results: In the post-graduate (PG) clinic, there was significant difference in noise levels between the chairside (66-81 dB[A]) and the center of the clinic (66-67 dB[A]) at certain times. In the under graduate (UG) clinic, noise levels with suction and either high/slow speed handpieces (67-80 dB[A]) were significantly higher than the center of clinic. Suction alone in the UG clinic (63-75 dB[A]) was significantly quieter than in the PG clinic (69-79 dB[A]). Conclusions: (1) Mean sound levels in the working clinics ranged from 63.0 dB[A] to 81.5 dB[A]. These are within the recommended range for dental equipment. (2) With suction and either low/high speed handpiece combination, the PG clinic was significantly noisier than the UG clinic at several time periods. PMID:23716962

A Ca-alginate particle co-immobilized with Phanerochaete chrysosporium cells and the combined cross-linked enzyme aggregates from Trametes versicolor.

PubMed

Li, Yanchun; Wang, Zhi; Xu, Xudong; Jin, Liqiang

2015-12-01

For improving stability of immobilized white-rot fungus to treat various effluents, Phanerochaete chrysosporium cells and the combined cross-link enzyme aggregates (combi-CLEAs) prepared from Trametes versicolor were co-immobilized into the Ca-alginate gel particles in this paper. The activity yields of obtained combi-CLEAs were 42.7% for lignin peroxidases (LiPs), 31.4% for manganese peroxidases (MnPs) and 40.4% for laccase (Lac), respectively. And their specific activities were 30.2U/g as combi-CLEAs-LiPs, 9.5 U/g as combi-CLEAs-MnPs and 28.4 U/g as combi-CLEAs-Lac. Further, the present of the combi-CLEAs in the particles extremely improved their ability to degrade the dyes. Compared to the immobilized Ph. chrysosporium without the combi-CLEAs, the co-immobilized particles enhanced the decolorized rate of Acid Violet 7 (from 45.2% to 93.4%) and Basic Fuchsin (from 12.1% to 67.9%). In addition, the addition of the combi-CLEAs improved the adaptability of the white-rot fungal particles to adverse environmental conditions. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Tolerability and safety of weekly primaquine against relapse of Plasmodium vivax in Cambodians with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency.

PubMed

Kheng, Sim; Muth, Sinoun; Taylor, Walter R J; Tops, Narann; Kosal, Khem; Sothea, Khon; Souy, Phum; Kim, Saorin; Char, Chuor Meng; Vanna, Chan; Ly, Po; Ringwald, Pascal; Khieu, Virak; Kerleguer, Alexandra; Tor, Pety; Baird, John K; Bjorge, Steven; Menard, Didier; Christophel, Eva

2015-08-25

Primaquine is used to prevent Plasmodium vivax relapse; however, it is not implemented in many malaria-endemic countries, including Cambodia, for fear of precipitating primaquine-induced acute haemolytic anaemia in patients with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (G6PDd). Reluctance to use primaquine is reinforced by a lack of quality safety data. This study was conducted to assess the tolerability of a primaquine regimen in Cambodian severely deficient G6PD variants to ascertain whether a weekly primaquine could be given without testing for G6PDd. From January 2013 to January 2014, Cambodians with acute vivax malaria were treated with dihydroartemisinin/piperaquine on days (D) 0, 1 and 2 with weekly doses of primaquine 0.75 mg/kg for 8 weeks (starting on D0, last dose on D49), and followed until D56. Participants' G6PD status was confirmed by G6PD genotype and measured G6PD activity. The primary outcome was treatment completion without primaquine toxicity defined as any one of: (1) severe anaemia (haemoglobin [Hb] <7 g/dL), (2) a >25 % fractional fall in Hb from D0, (3) the need for a blood transfusion, (4) haemoglobinuria, (5) acute kidney injury (an increase in baseline serum creatinine >50 %) or (6) methaemoglobinaemia >20 %. We enrolled 75 patients with a median age of 24 years (range 5-63); 63 patients (84 %) were male. Eighteen patients were G6PDd (17/18 had the Viangchan variant) and had D0 G6PD activity ranging from 0.1 to 1.5 U/g Hb (median 0.85 U/g Hb). In the 57 patients with normal G6PD (G6PDn), D0 G6PD activity ranged from 6.9 to 18.5 U/g Hb (median 12 U/g Hb). Median D0 Hb concentrations were similar (P = 0.46) between G6PDd (13 g/dL, range 9.6-16) and G6PDn (13.5 g/dL, range 9-16.3) and reached a nadir on D2 in both groups: 10.8 g/dL (8.2-15.3) versus 12.4 g/dL (8.8-15.2) (P = 0.006), respectively. By D7, five G6PDd patients (27.7 %) had a >25 % fall in Hb, compared to 0 G6PDn patients (P = 0.00049). One of these G6PDd patients required a blood transfusion (D0-D5 Hb, 10.0-7.2 g/dL). No patients developed severe anaemia, haemoglobinuria, a methaemoglobin concentration >4.9 %, or acute kidney injury. Vivax-infected G6PDd Cambodian patients demonstrated significant, mostly transient, falls in Hb and one received a blood transfusion. Weekly primaquine in G6PDd patients mandates medical supervision and pre-treatment screening for G6PD status. The feasibility of implementing a package of G6PDd testing and supervised primaquine should be explored. The trial was registered on 3/1/2013 and the registration number is ACTRN12613000003774.

Lipid peroxidation and antioxidant enzymes activity in controlled and uncontrolled Type 2 diabetic patients.

PubMed

Zarei, Mahnaz; Farahnak, Zahra; Hosseinzadeh-Attar, Mohammad Javad; Javanbakht, Mohammad Hassan; Hosseinzadeh, Payam; Derakhshanian, Hoda; Farahbakhsh-Farsi, Payam; Djalali, Mahmoud

2016-05-01

This study was designed to compare lipid peroxidation and antioxidant enzymes activity in Type 2 diabetes patients with good or weak glycemic control. In this case-control study, 62 Type 2 diabetic patients with glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) between 6 and 8 were enrolled as the controlled group and 55 patients with HbA1c > 8 were selected as an uncontrolled group. Patients were all referred to Iranian Diabetes Association in Tehran, Iran, from 2010 onward. Groups were chosen by convenience sampling and were matched based on age, sex and duration of disease. Demographic questionnaire, two 24-hour food recall, HbA1c, insulin, malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase were measured in blood samples. Data were analyzed by Food Processor II and SPSS software. A mean daily consumption of energy, carbohydrate, protein, and fat was not significantly different between two groups. MDA in the uncontrolled group was significantly higher than controlled group (2.03 ± 0.88 vs. 1.65 ± 1.01 nmol/ml; P = 0.030). A mean SOD was slightly higher in the uncontrolled group comparing to the control group (843.3 ± 101.9 vs. 828.0 ± 127.3 U/g Hb; P = 0.400). These data suggest that MDA as a lipid peroxidation indicator is higher in uncontrolled diabetes probably due to chronic high blood sugar followed by higher oxidative stress.

Validity and Reliability of 2 Goniometric Mobile Apps: Device, Application, and Examiner Factors.

PubMed

Wellmon, Robert H; Gulick, Dawn T; Paterson, Mark L; Gulick, Colleen N

2016-12-01

Smartphones are being used in a variety of practice settings to measure joint range of motion (ROM). A number of factors can affect the validity of the measurements generated. However, there are no studies examining smartphone-based goniometer applications focusing on measurement variability and error arising from the electromechanical properties of the device being used. To examine the concurrent validity and interrater reliability of 2 goniometric mobile applications (Goniometer Records, Goniometer Pro), an inclinometer, and a universal goniometer (UG). Nonexperimental, descriptive validation study. University laboratory. 3 physical therapists having an average of 25 y of experience. Three standardized angles (acute, right, obtuse) were constructed to replicate the movement of a hinge joint in the human body. Angular changes were measured and compared across 3 raters who used 3 different devices (UG, inclinometer, and 2 goniometric apps installed on 3 different smartphones: Apple iPhone 5, LG Android, and Samsung SIII Android). Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) and Bland-Altman plots were used to examine interrater reliability and concurrent validity. Interrater reliability for each of the smartphone apps, inclinometer and UG were excellent (ICC = .995-1.000). Concurrent validity was also good (ICC = .998-.999). Based on the Bland-Altman plots, the means of the differences between the devices were low (range = -0.4° to 1.2°). This study identifies the error inherent in measurement that is independent of patient factors and due to the smartphone, the installed apps, and examiner skill. Less than 2° of measurement variability was attributable to those factors alone. The data suggest that 3 smartphones with the 2 installed apps are a viable substitute for using a UG or an inclinometer when measuring angular changes that typically occur when examining ROM and demonstrate the capacity of multiple examiners to accurately use smartphone-based goniometers.

Mesoporous NiCo2O4 nano-needles supported by 3D interconnected carbon network on Ni foam for electrochemical energy storage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lu, Congxiang; Liu, Wen-wen; Pan, Hui; Tay, Beng Kang; Wang, Xingli; Liang, Kun; Wei, Xuezhe

2018-05-01

In this work, a three dimensional (3D) interconnected carbon network consisting of ultrathin graphite (UG) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) on Ni foam is fabricated and employed as a novel type of substrate for mesoporous NiCo2O4 nano-needles. The successfully synthesized NiCo2O4 nano-needles/CNTs/UG on Ni foam has many advantages including facile electrolyte access and direct conducting pathways towards current collectors, which enable it to be a promising electrode material in battery-like electrochemical energy storage. Encouragingly, a high capacity of 135.1 mAh/g at the current density of 1 A/g, superior rate performance and also stable cycling for 1200 cycles at the current density of 5 A/g have been demonstrated in this novel material.

Effects of virtual reality-based bilateral upper-extremity training on brain activity in post-stroke patients.

PubMed

Lee, Su-Hyun; Kim, Yu-Mi; Lee, Byoung-Hee

2015-07-01

[Purpose] This study investigated the therapeutic effects of virtual reality-based bilateral upper-extremity training on brain activity in patients with stroke. [Subjects and Methods] Eighteen chronic stroke patients were divided into two groups: the virtual reality-based bilateral upper-extremity training group (n = 10) and the bilateral upper-limb training group (n = 8). The virtual reality-based bilateral upper-extremity training group performed bilateral upper-extremity exercises in a virtual reality environment, while the bilateral upper-limb training group performed only bilateral upper-extremity exercise. All training was conducted 30 minutes per day, three times per week for six weeks, followed by brain activity evaluation. [Results] Electroencephalography showed significant increases in concentration in the frontopolar 2 and frontal 4 areas, and significant increases in brain activity in the frontopolar 1 and frontal 3 areas in the virtual reality-based bilateral upper-extremity training group. [Conclusion] Virtual reality-based bilateral upper-extremity training can improve the brain activity of stroke patients. Thus, virtual reality-based bilateral upper-extremity training is feasible and beneficial for improving brain activation in stroke patients.

Characterization of stem rust resistance in wheat cultivar 'Gage'

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Wheat (Triticum spp.) stem rust, caused by Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici Eriks. & E. Henn. (Pgt), re-emerged as a devastating disease of wheat because of virulent race Ug99 (TTKSK). Many bread wheat (T. aestivum L.) cultivars grown in North America are susceptible to Ug99 or its derivative races ...

EVALUATION OF A MATRIX INTERFERENCE IN GROUND WATER ARSENIC MEASUREMENT BY ICP-OES

EPA Science Inventory

Arsenic enters ground water systems by either the weathering of naturally occurring subsurface materials or human activities such as mining and pesticide manufacturing. The current EPA drinking water limit for arsenic is set at 50 ug/L, with the reduction to 10 ug/L in 2006. The...

46 CFR 54.10-10 - Standard hydrostatic test (modifies UG-99).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... PRESSURE VESSELS Inspection, Reports, and Stamping § 54.10-10 Standard hydrostatic test (modifies UG-99). (a) All pressure vessels shall satisfactorily pass the hydrostatic test prescribed by this section, except those pressure vessels noted under § 54.10-15(a). (b) The hydrostatic-test pressure must be at...

ACCUMULATION AND FATE OF PERCHLORATE IN PLANTS

EPA Science Inventory

Perchlorate, a component of solid rocket fuels, has emerged as a potential threat to surface water and groundwater at several locations in the U.S. Perchlorate levels up to 16 ug/L were detected in Lake Mead and 5-9 ug/L in the lower Colorado River. The water from the Colorado Ri...

Postharvest accumulation of resveratrol and piceatannol in sugarcane with enhanced antioxidant activity

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

A new plant source, sugarcane, was used to produce the stilbenes piceatannol and resveratrol. Both stilbenes were identified in sugarcane billet stalks (12 mm) after incubation at room temperature for 3 days. Low concentrations of piceatannol (30.6 ug/g) and resveratrol (12.3 ug/g) were detected a...

Heart-rate deceleration predicting the determination of costly punishment: Implications for its involvement in cognitive effort expended in overriding self-interest.

PubMed

Osumi, Takahiro; Ohira, Hideki

2016-11-01

Previous studies have investigated which biological markers predict the decision to reject unfair monetary offers, termed costly punishment, in the ultimatum game (UG). One study showed that a phasic deceleratory response in heart rate (HR) is evoked in the responder more readily by offers that will be rejected than by offers that will be accepted. However, owing to the paucity of supporting evidence, it remains unclear whether and why HR deceleration can predict the decisions of UG responders. In this paper, we report two separate studies (Study 1 and Study 2) using modified versions of the UG to explore factors modulating HR deceleration. In Study 1, as well as unfair offers, fair offers induced greater HR deceleration when responders were forced to reject offers compared to when they were forced to accept offers. In Study 2, a high rejection rate for very unfair offers was sustained, regardless of the size of the offers, but HR deceleration was increased for unfair but large offers, relative to unfair, small offers. Moreover, HR deceleration was associated with the rejection of large offers. However, across the two studies, HR deceleration did not simply vary depending on unfairness. These findings support the possibility that HR decelerates as a function of cognitive load in determining costly punishment. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of a new motion correction algorithm in PET/CT: combining the entire acquired PET data to create a single three-dimensional motion-corrected PET/CT image.

PubMed

Minamimoto, Ryogo; Mitsumoto, Takuya; Miyata, Yoko; Sunaoka, Fumio; Morooka, Miyako; Okasaki, Momoko; Iagaru, Andrei; Kubota, Kazuo

2016-02-01

This study evaluated the potential of Q.Freeze algorithm for reducing motion artifacts, in comparison with ungated imaging (UG) and respiratory-gated imaging (RG). Twenty-nine patients with 53 lesions who had undergone RG F-FDG PET/CT were included in this study. Using PET list mode data, five series of PET images [UG, RG, and QF images with an acquisition duration of 3 min (QF3), 5 min (QF5), and 10 min (QF10)] were reconstructed retrospectively. The image quality was evaluated first. Next, quantitative metrics [maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax), mean standardized uptake value (SUVmean), SD, metabolic tumor volume, signal to noise ratio, or lesion to background ratio] were calculated for the liver, background, and each lesion, and the results were compared across the series. QF10 and QF5 showed better image quality compared with all other images. SUVmax in the liver, background, and lesions was lower with QF10 and QF5 than with the others, but there were no statistically significant differences in SUVmean and the lesion to background ratios. The SD with UG and RG was significantly higher than that with QF5 and QF10. The metabolic tumor volume in QF3 and QF5 was significantly lower than that in UG. The Q.Freeze algorithm can improve the quality of PET imaging compared with RG and UG.

Grazing effects on soil characteristics and vegetation of grassland in northern China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Z.; Johnson, D. A.; Rong, Y.; Wang, K.

2016-01-01

Large areas of grassland in the agro-pastoral region of northern China were converted into cropland for grain production, and the remaining grasslands are being overgrazed and seriously degraded. The objective of this study was to evaluate how reductions in grazing intensity affect the soil and vegetation characteristics in grasslands of northern China. Soil heterogeneity and vegetation characteristics were evaluated for ungrazed (UG), moderate grazing (MG), and heavy grazing (HG) sites. Grazing increased diversity, but heavy grazing decreased aboveground biomass and increased the non-grass component. The non-grass proportion of total biomass increased with grazing intensity, which was 8, 16 and 48 % for UG, MG and HG sites, respectively. Species richness at the MG and HG sites was significantly higher than at the UG site (P< 0.05) with 3.6, 5.5 and 5.7 for UG, MG and HG sites, respectively. Strong spatial dependence of the examined soil properties at 10 m scale for all grazed sites was revealed by the ratio of nugget to total variation (0-23 %). Overgrazing homogenized soil characteristics at a 10 m scale. The ranges of spatial autocorrelation for soil organic C (SOC) and total N were both > 120 m at the HG site, which was considerably larger than that at the MG and UG sites with corresponding distances of 17.3 and 20.8 m for the MG site and 8.6 and 15.0 m for the UG site, respectively. The sampling density and sampling space for the HG site could be decreased under this scale sampling interval (10 m). Therefore, MG was recommended as the preferred management alternative for grasslands in northern China because of increased plant diversity without negative consequences related to decreased forage quality, forage quantity and soil heterogeneity for the investigated soil properties in northern China's grasslands.

Green residues from Bangkok green space for renewable energy recovery, phosphorus recycling and greenhouse gases emission reduction.

PubMed

Thitanuwat, Bussarakam; Polprasert, Chongchin; Englande, Andrew J

2017-03-01

Effective ways to integrate human life quality, environmental pollution mitigation and efficient waste management strategies are becoming a crisis challenge for sustainable urban development. The aims of this study are: (1) to evaluate and recommend an optimum Urban Green Space (UGS) area for the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA); and (2) to quantify potential renewable resources including electricity generation and potential nutrient recovery from generated ash. Green House Gases (GHGs) emissions from the management of Green Residues (GR) produced in a recommended UGS expansion are estimated and compared with those from the existing BMA waste management practice. Results obtained from this study indicate that an increase in UGS from its current 2.02% to 22.4% of the BMA urban area is recommended. This optimum value is primarily due to the area needed as living space for its population. At this scale, GR produced of about 334kt·y -1 may be used to generate electricity at the rate of 206GWh·y -1 by employing incineration technology. Additionally, instead of going to landfill, phosphorus (P) contained in the ash of 1077 t P·y -1 could be recovered to produce P fertilizer to be recycled for agricultural cultivation. Income earned from selling these products is found to offset all of the operational cost of the proposed GR management methodology itself plus 7% of the cost of BMA's Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) operations. About 70% of the current GHGs emission may be reduced based on incineration simulation. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Investigation of off-site airborne transport of lead from a superfund removal action site using lead isotope ratios and concentrations

USGS Publications Warehouse

Pribil, Michael J.; Maddaloni, Mark A.; Staiger, Kimberly; Wilson, Eric; Magriples, Nick; Ali, Mustafa; Santella, Dennis

2014-01-01

Lead (Pb) concentration and Pb isotopic composition of surface and subsurface soil samples were used to investigate the potential for off-site air transport of Pb from a former white Pb processing facility to neighboring residential homes in a six block area on Staten Island, NY. Surface and subsurface soil samples collected on the Jewett White Pb site were found to range from 1.122 to 1.138 for 206Pb/207Pb and 2.393 to 2.411 for 208Pb/207Pb. The off-site surface soil samples collected from residential backyards, train trestle, near site grass patches and background areas varied from 1.144 to 1.196 for 206Pb/207Pb and 2.427 to 2.464 for 208Pb/207Pb. Two soil samples collected along Richmond Terrace, where Jewett site soils accumulated after major rain events, varied from 1.136 to 1.147 for 206Pb/207Pb and 2.407 to 2.419 for 208Pb/207Pb. Lead concentration for on-site surface soil samples ranged from 450 to 8000 ug/g, on-site subsurface soil samples ranged from 90,000 to 240,000 ug/g and off-site samples varied from 380 to 3500 ug/g. Lead concentration and isotopic composition for the Staten Island off-site samples were similar to previously published data for other northeastern US cities and reflect re-suspension and re-mobilization of local accumulated Pb. The considerable differences in both the Pb isotopic composition and Pb concentration of on-site and off-site samples resulted in the ability to geochemically trace the transport of particulate Pb. Data in this study indicate minimal off-site surface transport of Pb from the Jewett site into the neighboring residential area.

Short-term to Long-term Results of Ahmed Glaucoma Valve Implantation for Uveitic Glaucoma Secondary to Behçet Disease.

PubMed

Yakin, Mehmet; Eksioglu, Umit; Sungur, Gulten; Satana, Banu; Demirok, Gulizar; Ornek, Firdevs

2017-01-01

To evaluate short-term to long-term outcomes of Ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV) implantation in the management of uveitic glaucoma (UG) secondary to Behçet disease (BD). A retrospective chart review of 47 eyes of 35 patients with UG secondary to BD who underwent AGV implantation was conducted. Success was defined as having an intraocular pressure (IOP) between 6 and 21 mm Hg with (qualified success) or without (complete success) antiglaucomatous medications and without need for further glaucoma surgery. Mean postoperative follow-up was 57.72±26.13 months. Mean preoperative IOP was 35.40±8.33 mm Hg versus 12.28±2.90 mm Hg at the last follow-up visit (P<0.001). Mean number of preoperative topical antiglaucomatous medications was 2.96±0.29 versus 0.68±1.12 at the last follow-up visit (P<0.001). In all eyes, IOP could be maintained between 6 and 21 mm Hg with or without antiglaucomatous medications during follow-up. The cumulative probability of complete success was 46.8% at 6 months, 40.4% at 12 months, and 35.9% at 36 months, and the cumulative probability of eyes without complication was 53.2% at 6 months, 46.5% at 12 months, and 39.6% at 24 months postoperatively based on Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. No persistent or irreparable complications were observed. This study includes one of the largest series of AGV implantation in the management of UG with the longest follow-up reported. AGV implantation can be considered as a primary surgical option in the management of UG secondary to BD with 100% total success rate (with or without medications).

Simulated-use validation of a sponge ATP method for determining the adequacy of manual cleaning of endoscope channels.

PubMed

Alfa, Michelle J; Olson, Nancy

2016-05-04

The objective of this study was to validate the relative light unit (RLU) cut-off of adequate cleaning of flexible colonoscopes for an ATP (adenosine tri-phosphate) test kit that used a sponge channel collection method. This was a simulated-use study. The instrument channel segment of a flexible colonoscope was soiled with ATS (artificial test soil) containing approximately 8 Log10 Enterococcus faecalis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa/mL. Full cleaning, partial cleaning and no cleaning were evaluated for ATP, protein and bacterial residuals. Channel samples were collected using a sponge device to assess residual RLUs. Parallel colonoscopes inoculated and cleaned in the same manner were sampled using the flush method to quantitatively assess protein and bacterial residuals. The protein and viable count benchmarks for adequate cleaning were <6.4 ug/cm(2) and <4 Log10 cfu/cm(2). The negative controls for the instrument channel, over the course of the study remained low with on average 14 RLUs, 0.04 ug/cm(2) protein and 0.025 Log10 cfu/cm(2). Partial cleaning resulted in an average of 6601 RLUs, 3.99 ug/cm(2), 5.25 Log10 cfu/cm(2) E. faecalis and 4.48 Log10 cfu/cm(2) P. aeruginosa. After full cleaning, the average RLU was 29 (range 7-71 RLUs) and the average protein, E. faecalis and P. aeruginosa residuals were 0.23 ug/cm(2), 0.79 and 1.61 Log10 cfu/cm(2), respectively. The validated cut-off for acceptable manual cleaning was set at ≤100 RLUs for the sponge collected channel ATP test kit.

Health and environmental assessment of the impact of mine tailings spillage in the Philippines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Castillo, E.; Cortes-Maramba, N. P.; Reyes, J. P.; Makalinao, I.; Dioquino, C.; Francisco-Rivera, A. T.; Timbang, R.

2003-05-01

In March, 1997, a municipal health officer in a small island south of Manila requested for the conduct of a health assessment of the community because of the incidence of hematological related illnesses/mortality among residents of along the coastal area of a mining community. 85 deaths were recorded from 1975-1996. Leukemia was diagnosed in 62 (72.94%) patients, 16 (18.82%) were aplastic anemia, 4 (4.71%) were blood dyscrasia and 3 (3.53%) other blood related ailments. Health and environmental assessment activities were conducted by a composite team from the DOH and the UP-National Poisons Control and Information Service Health examinations included a review of systems, complete medical history, physical and neurologic evaluations and biologic examinations. Initial health examination showed 7 schoolchildren out of 108 volunteer subjects from 6 barangays have elevated blood lead levels exceeding the WHO recommended limits of 10 ug/dl. Mean blood lead levels = 15.86 ug/dl (Range: 13-19 ug/dl). Electromyograph and nerve conduction velocity (EMG-NCV) results were compatible with peripheral axonal degeneration in 6 children and beginning damage in 1 child. Detoxification therapy was done for a 19 day course using dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA). In the succeeding health assessment, 59/59 schoolchildren from 3 barangays namely were found to have elevated blood lead levels. Range: 10-18 ug/dl. 43/64 (67.18%) have anemia. Soil samples collected 7 km from the causeway and the causeway itself showed three (3) sites with lead. cadmium, copper and zinc levels were found in all sampling sites. Ambient air monitoring results showed lead values exceeding the recommended US-EPA limits.

Characterization of ambient aerosol at a remote site and twin cities of Pakistan

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghauri, B.; Lodhi, A.

The pollution controls have significantly decreased pollutant concentrations in the industrialized nations in the west while the concentrations are expected to grow in developing countries. In this study the concentrations of major ions i.e SO4 2 -, NO3 -, NO2 -, Cl- , NH4 + and trace metals i.e. Al, V, Cr, Mn, Cu, As, Se, Cd, Sb, Ba, Ti and Pb were determined in aerosols at a remote site of Northern Pakistan in July 1996. Later in May 1998, a comparative study of aerosols in two size fractions (bulk &PM10) at 14 sites enabled to understand the anomalous distribution of several constituents present in the ambient air of the twin cities, Islamabad / Rawalpindi 90 km from South East of earlier site. The suspended particulate matter concentrations (bulk and PM10) were 475 ug/m3, 175 ug/m3 respectively. For urban areas Pb, Cd, Zn and Ni are obviously contributed by steel and other allied industries besides vehicle's contribution of lead and cadmium. In Northern area concentrations of Al, K, Ca, and Fe exceeded 1000 ng/m3. The SO2 concentrations varied from 0.03 to 1.2 ppb. Mean SO4 2- and NO3 - concentrations were 5.2 ug/m3 and 3.6 ug/m3 respectively. Concentrations of Se, Ti, Pb, Cd, Sb, Zn and As in all aerosol samples were highly enriched relative to average crustal abundances indicating significant anthropogenic contributions. As the dominant flow pattern from the Arabian Sea through India (monsoon air pattern) this may transport pollution derived aerosol and moisture from distant sources in China or India. Key word index: Aerosol, trace metals , enrichment, anions, air pollution, Islamabad/Rawalpindi, remote site.

Are patients with schizophrenia rational maximizers? Evidence from an ultimatum game study.

PubMed

Csukly, Gábor; Polgár, Patrícia; Tombor, László; Réthelyi, János; Kéri, Szabolcs

2011-05-15

Schizophrenia is associated with impaired social cognition and community functioning. Social decision-making strategies of healthy controls and patients with schizophrenia were compared by using the ultimatum game (UG). In this game two players have to split a sum of money. The proposer offers a portion to the responder, who decides to either accept or reject the offer. Rejection results in no income to either of the parties. Unfair proposals are frequently rejected by nonclinical individuals, a phenomenon described as altruistic punishment. Patients and controls participated in a series of UG interactions as responders in a computerized test setting. We also tested the effect of the proposer's facial expression on decision-making. Our results indicate that patients with schizophrenia accepted unfair offers at a significantly higher rate than did healthy controls. In contrast, at fair proposals, the acceptance rate was lower in patients compared with controls. At higher offers, the proposer's facial expression (positive/negative) significantly influenced the acceptance rate (positive facial expression increased the likelihood of acceptance) in the control group. This effect was not observed in the patient group. These results suggest that schizophrenia patients are impaired in socioeconomic interactions requiring emotion recognition and decision-making, which may result in unstable behavioral strategies. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Comparison between intravenous paracetamol and fentanyl for intraoperative and postoperative pain relief in dilatation and evacuation: Prospective, randomized interventional trial.

PubMed

Ali, Muhammad Asghar; Shamim, Faisal; Chughtai, Shakaib

2015-01-01

Dilatation and Evacuation procedure involves pain, for which pain control measures need to be undertaken. The purpose of this study was to compare paracetamol with fentanyl for pain relief in dilatation and curettage procedures. Sixty female patients were randomly included during the period from March 1, 2012 to February 28, 2013. All patients had received oral midazolam 7.5 mg as a premedication 30 min before procedure in the ward. Group P had received intravenous (IV) paracetamol 15 mg/kg in the waiting area of the operating room 15 min before starting the procedure. Group F had received IV fentanyl 2 ug/kg/min at induction of anesthesia. Pain scores on a numerical rating scale at 5, 15, and 30 min intervals after surgery were recorded. Mild pain was commonly observed in both groups, an insignificant difference between groups. The study demonstrates the usefulness of IV paracetamol which may be as effective as fentanyl in dilation and curettage procedures.

Variation in the AvrSr35 effector determines Sr35 resistance against wheat stem rust race Ug99

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici (Pgt) causes wheat stem rust, a devastating fungal disease. The Sr35 resistance gene confers immunity against this pathogen’s most virulent races, including Ug99. We used the comparative whole genome sequencing of chemically mutagenized and natural Pgt isolates to id...

Genomic analysis of a novel gene conferring resistance to Ug99 stem rust in Triticum turgidum ssp. dicoccum

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Wheat production is threatened by the disease stem rust, which is caused by the biotrophic fungal pathogen Puccinia graminis Pers.:Pers. f. sp. tritici (Pgt). Among all known Pgt races, TTKSK (Ug99) and TRTTF are significant threats to North American wheat production due to their virulence against f...

ARSENIC (III) AND ARSENIC (V) REMOVAL FROM DRINKING WATER IN SAN YSIDRO, NEW MEXICO

EPA Science Inventory

The removal of a natural mixture of As(III) (31 ug/L) and As(V) (57 ug/L) from a groundwater high in total dissolved solids (TDS), and also containing fluoride (2.0 mg/L), was studied in San Ysidro, NM using the University of Houston (UH)/U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA...

Evidence for the Fundamental Difference Hypothesis or Not?: Island Constraints Revisited

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Belikova, Alyona; White, Lydia

2009-01-01

This article examines how changes in linguistic theory affect the debate between the fundamental difference hypothesis and the access-to-Universal Grammar (UG) approach to SLA. With a focus on subjacency (Chomsky, 1973), a principle of UG that places constraints on "wh"-movement and that has frequently been taken as a test case for verifying…

Identification and validation of single nucleotide polymorphic markers linked to Ug99 stem rust resistance in spring wheat

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Wheat stem rust (Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici Eriks. and E. Henn.) is one of the most destructive diseases world-wide. Races belonging to Ug99 (or TTKSK) continue to cause crop losses in East Africa and threaten global wheat production. Developing and deploying wheat varieties with multiple race...

Targeted introgression of stem rust Ug99 resistance from wheatgrasses into pasta and bread wheat

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

In the past 50 years, a number of stem rust resistance (Sr) genes have been transferred from several wheat-related grasses into durum (i.e. pasta) and bread wheat through chromosome translocations and additions. To utilize these genes for controlling the Ug99 races of the stem rust pathogen, we ini...

Central Radar System, Over-the-Horizon Backscatter

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-03-09

1,2-Dibromo-3- chloropropane (DBCP) 0.3 TABLE 41-6 (Continued). MINNESOTA RECOMMENDED ALLOWABLE LIMITS (RAL) FOR DRINKING WATER WELLS Compound RAL (ug/ 1 ...TABLE OF CONTENTS ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ANALYSIS PROCESS OVERVIEW ............ TECHNICAL STUDY 1 FACILITIES...TECHNICAL STUDY 10 0 TECHNICAL STUDY 1 CENTRAL RADAR SYSTEM OVER-THE-HORIZON BACKSCATTER RADAR PROGRAM 0 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

TCDD Inhibition of Canonical Wnt Signaling Disrupts Prostatic Bud Formation in Mouse Urogenital Sinus

PubMed Central

Peterson, Richard E.

2013-01-01

In mice, in utero exposure to 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p- dioxin (TCDD) reduces the number of dorsolateral prostatic buds resulting in a smaller dorsolateral prostate and prevents formation of ventral buds culminating in ventral prostate agenesis. The genes and signaling pathways affected by TCDD that are responsible for disrupting prostate development are largely unknown. Here we show that treatment of urogenital sinus (UGS) organ cultures with known inhibitors of canonical Wnt signaling also inhibits prostatic bud formation. In support of the hypothesis that TCDD decreases canonical Wnt signaling, we identify inhibitory effects of TCDD on multiple components of the canonical Wnt signaling pathway in the UGS that temporally coincide with the inhibitory effect of TCDD on prostatic bud formation: (1) expression of R-spondins (Rspo2 and Rspo3) that promote canonical Wnt signaling is reduced; (2) expression of Lef1, Tcf1, and Wif1, established canonical Wnt target genes, is decreased; (3) expression of Lgr5, a RSPO receptor that activates canonical Wnt signaling, is reduced; and (4) expression of Dickkopfs (Dkks), inhibitors of canonical Wnt signaling, is not increased by TCDD. Thus, the TCDD-induced reduction in canonical Wnt signaling is associated with a decrease in activators (Rspo2 and Rspo3) rather than an increase in inhibitors (Dkk1 and Dkk2) of the pathway. This study focuses on determining whether treatment of TCDD-exposed UGS organ cultures with RSPO2 and/or RSPO3 is capable of rescuing the inhibitory effects of TCDD on canonical Wnt signaling and prostatic bud formation. We discovered that each RSPO alone or in combination partially rescues TCDD inhibition of both canonical Wnt signaling and prostatic bud formation. PMID:23429912

TCDD inhibition of canonical Wnt signaling disrupts prostatic bud formation in mouse urogenital sinus.

PubMed

Branam, Amanda M; Davis, Nicole M; Moore, Robert W; Schneider, Andrew J; Vezina, Chad M; Peterson, Richard E

2013-05-01

In mice, in utero exposure to 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p- dioxin (TCDD) reduces the number of dorsolateral prostatic buds resulting in a smaller dorsolateral prostate and prevents formation of ventral buds culminating in ventral prostate agenesis. The genes and signaling pathways affected by TCDD that are responsible for disrupting prostate development are largely unknown. Here we show that treatment of urogenital sinus (UGS) organ cultures with known inhibitors of canonical Wnt signaling also inhibits prostatic bud formation. In support of the hypothesis that TCDD decreases canonical Wnt signaling, we identify inhibitory effects of TCDD on multiple components of the canonical Wnt signaling pathway in the UGS that temporally coincide with the inhibitory effect of TCDD on prostatic bud formation: (1) expression of R-spondins (Rspo2 and Rspo3) that promote canonical Wnt signaling is reduced; (2) expression of Lef1, Tcf1, and Wif1, established canonical Wnt target genes, is decreased; (3) expression of Lgr5, a RSPO receptor that activates canonical Wnt signaling, is reduced; and (4) expression of Dickkopfs (Dkks), inhibitors of canonical Wnt signaling, is not increased by TCDD. Thus, the TCDD-induced reduction in canonical Wnt signaling is associated with a decrease in activators (Rspo2 and Rspo3) rather than an increase in inhibitors (Dkk1 and Dkk2) of the pathway. This study focuses on determining whether treatment of TCDD-exposed UGS organ cultures with RSPO2 and/or RSPO3 is capable of rescuing the inhibitory effects of TCDD on canonical Wnt signaling and prostatic bud formation. We discovered that each RSPO alone or in combination partially rescues TCDD inhibition of both canonical Wnt signaling and prostatic bud formation.

Groundwater Quality in Central New York, 2007

USGS Publications Warehouse

Eckhardt, David A.V.; Reddy, J.E.; Shaw, Stephen B.

2009-01-01

Water samples were collected from 7 production wells and 28 private residential wells in central New York from August through December 2007 and analyzed to characterize the chemical quality of groundwater. Seventeen wells are screened in sand and gravel aquifers, and 18 are finished in bedrock aquifers. The wells were selected to represent areas of greatest groundwater use and to provide a geographical sampling from the 5,799-square-mile study area. Samples were analyzed for 6 physical properties and 216 constituents, including nutrients, major inorganic ions, trace elements, radionuclides, pesticides, volatile organic compounds, phenolic compounds, organic carbon, and 4 types of bacteria. Results indicate that groundwater used for drinking supply is generally of acceptable quality, although concentrations of some constituents or bacteria exceeded at least one drinking-water standard at several wells. The cations detected in the highest concentrations were calcium, magnesium, and sodium; anions detected in the highest concentrations were bicarbonate, chloride, and sulfate. The predominant nutrients were nitrate and ammonia, but no nutrients exceeded Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs). The trace elements barium, boron, lithium, and strontium were detected in every sample; the trace elements present in the highest concentrations were barium, boron, iron, lithium, manganese, and strontium. Fifteen pesticides, including seven pesticide degradates, were detected in water from 17 of the 35 wells, but none of the concentrations exceeded State or Federal MCLs. Sixteen volatile organic compounds were detected in water from 15 of the 35 wells. Nine analytes and three types of bacteria were detected in concentrations that exceeded Federal and State drinking-water standards, which typically are identical. One sample had a water color that exceeded the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) Secondary Maximum Contaminant Level (SMCL) and the New York State MCL of 10 color units. Sulfate concentrations exceeded the USEPA SMCL and the New York State MCL of 250 milligrams per liter (mg/L) in two samples, and chloride concentrations exceeded the USEPA SMCL and the New York State MCL of 250 mg/L in two samples. Sodium concentrations exceeded the USEPA Drinking Water Health Advisory of 60 mg/L in eight samples. Iron concentrations exceeded the USEPA SMCL and the New York State MCL of 300 micrograms per liter (ug/L) in 10 filtered samples. Manganese exceeded the USEPA SMCL of 50 ug/L in 10 filtered samples and the New York State MCL of 300 ug/L in 1 filtered sample. Barium exceeded the MCL of 2,000 ug/L in one sample, and aluminum exceeded the SMCL of 50 ug/L in three samples. Radon-222 exceeded the proposed USEPA MCL of 300 picocuries per liter in 12 samples. One sample from a private residential well had a trichloroethene concentration of 50.8 ug/L, which exceeded the MCL of 5 ug/L. Any detection of coliform bacteria indicates a potential violation of New York State health regulations; total coliform bacteria were detected in 19 samples, and fecal coliform bacteria were detected in one sample. The plate counts for heterotrophic bacteria exceeded the MCL (500 colony-forming units per milliliter) in three samples.

Ground-Water Quality in the Genesee River Basin, New York, 2005-2006

USGS Publications Warehouse

Eckhardt, David A.V.; Reddy, J.E.; Tamulonis, Kathryn L.

2007-01-01

Water samples were collected from 7 community water system wells and 15 private domestic wells throughout the Genesee River Basin in New York State (downstream from the Pennsylvania border) from October 2005 through March 2006 and analyzed to characterize the chemical quality of ground water in the basin. The wells were selected to represent areas of greatest ground-water use and to provide a representative sampling from the 2,439 square-mile basin area in New York. Samples were analyzed for five physical properties and 226 constituents that included nutrients, major inorganic ions, trace elements, radionuclides, pesticides, volatile organic compounds, and bacteria. The results show that ground water used for drinking water is generally of good quality in the Genesee River Basin, although concentrations of seven constituents exceeded drinking water standards. The cations that were detected in the highest concentrations were calcium, magnesium, and sodium; the anions that were detected in the greatest concentrations were bicarbonate, chloride, and sulfate. The predominant nutrient was nitrate, and nitrate concentrations were greater in samples from sand and gravel aquifers than in samples from bedrock aquifers. The trace elements barium, boron, cobalt, copper, and nickel were detected in every sample; the highest concentrations were barium, boron, chromium, iron, manganese, strontium, and lithium. Fourteen pesticides including seven pesticide degradates were detected in water from 12 of the 22 wells, but none of the concentrations exceeded Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs). Eight volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were detected in six samples, but none of the concentrations exceeded MCLs. Seven chemical analytes and three types of bacteria were present in concentrations that exceeded Federal and New York State water-quality standards, which are typically identical. Sulfate concentrations exceeded the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) Secondary Maximum Contaminant Level (SMCL) of 250 milligrams per liter (mg/L) in three samples; the chloride SMCL (250 mg/L) was exceeded in one sample. Sodium concentrations exceeded the USEPA Drinking Water Health Advisory of 60 mg/L in five samples. The SMCL for iron (300 ug/L) was exceeded in 11 filtered samples; the USEPA SMCL for manganese (50 ug/L) was exceeded in 10 filtered samples, and the New York State MCL (300 ug/L) was exceeded in 1 filtered sample. The MCL for aluminum (200 ug/L) was exceeded in 1 sample, and the MCL for arsenic (10 ug/L) was exceeded in 1 sample. Radon-222 exceeded the proposed USEPA MCL of 300 picocuries per liter in 16 samples. Any detection of total coliform or fecal coliform bacteria is considered a violation of New York State health regulations; in this study, total coliform was detected in eight samples; fecal coliform was detected in two samples, and Escherichia coli was detected in one sample.

Species differences in the sensitivity of avian embryos to methylmercury

USGS Publications Warehouse

Heinz, G.H.; Hoffman, D.J.; Klimstra, J.D.; Stebbins, K.R.; Kondrad, S.L.; Erwin, C.A.

2009-01-01

We injected doses of methylmercury into the air cells of eggs of 26 species of birds and examined the dose-response curves of embryo survival. For 23 species we had adequate data to calculate the median lethal concentration (LC50). Based on the dose-response curves and LC50s, we ranked species according to their sensitivity to injected methylmercury. Although the previously published embryotoxic threshold of mercury in game farm mallards (Anas platyrhynchos) has been used as a default value to protect wild species of birds, we found that, relative to other species, mallard embryos are not very sensitive to injected methylmercury; their LC50 was 1.79 ug/g mercury on a wet-weight basis. Other species we categorized as also exhibiting relatively low sensitivity to injected methylmercury (their LC50s were 1 ug/g mercury or higher) were the hooded merganser (Lophodytes cucullatus), lesser scaup (Aythya affinis), Canada goose (Branta canadensis), double-crested cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus), and laughing gull (Larus atricilla). Species we categorized as having medium sensitivity (their LC50s were greater than 0.25 ug/g mercury but less than 1 ug/g mercury) were the clapper rail (Rallus longirostris), sandhill crane (Grus canadensis), ring-necked pheasant (Phasianus colchicus), chicken (Gallus gallus), common grackle (Quiscalus quiscula), tree swallow (Tachycineta bicolor), herring gull (Larus argentatus), common tern (S terna hirundo), royal tern (Sterna maxima), Caspian tern (Sterna caspia), great egret (Ardea alba), brown pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis), and anhinga (Anhinga anhinga). Species we categorized as exhibiting high sensitivity (their LC50s were less than 0.25 ug/g mercury) were the American kestrel (Falco sparverius), osprey (Pandion haliaetus), white ibis (Eudocimus albus), snowy egret (Egretta thula), and tri-colored heron (Egretta tricolor). For mallards, chickens, and ring-necked pheasants (all species for which we could compare the toxicity of our injected methylmercury with that of published reports where methylmercury was fed to breeding adults and was deposited into the egg by the mother), we found the injected mercury to be more toxic than the same amount of mercury deposited naturally by the mother. The rank order of sensitivity of these same three species to methylmercury was, however, the same whether the methylmercury was injected or maternally deposited in the egg (i.e., the ring-necked pheasant was more sensitive than the chicken, which was more sensitive than the mallard). It is important to note that the dose-response curves and LC50s derived from our egg injections are useful for ranking the sensitivities of various species but are not identical to the LC50s that would be observed if the mother bird had put the same concentrations of mercury into her eggs; the LC50s of maternally deposited methylmercury would be higher.

[Evaluations of newborn screening program performance and enzymatic diagnosis of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency in Guangzhou].

PubMed

Tang, F; Huang, Y L; Jiang, X; Jia, X F; Li, B; Feng, Y; Chen, Q Y; Tang, C F

2018-05-02

Objective: To reveal the molecular epidemiologic characteristics of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) gene and to evaluate based on the genetic analysis the newborn screening program performance and enzymatic diagnosis of G6PD deficiency in Guangzhou. Methods: G6PD enzyme activities were measured by quantitative fluorescence assay in dry blood spots of 16 319 newborns(8 725 males, 7 594 females) 3-7 days after birth in Guangzhou Newborn Center. They were born in Guangzhou form Oct. 1 to 20, 2016. The cutoff value of G6PD was less than 2.6 U/g Hb in dry blood spots. G6PD deficiency was diagnosed when G6PD<1 700 U/L or G6PD/6PGD<1 in red blood cells. Genetic analysis of G6PD gene was performed on the dry blood spot samples of 823 newborns (including positive 346, negative 477)with various levels of G6PD enzyme activities through fluorescence PCR melting curve analysis(FMCA) to detect 15 kinds of mutations reported to be common among Chinese.G6PD gene Sanger sequency was performed in seven highly suspicious patients with negative results by FMCA. Results: (1) Using the cutoff value of G6PD< 2.6 U/g Hb , a total of 687(4.2%) newborns showed positive screening results, including 560 (6.4%) males and 127(1.7%) females. (2) Among the newborns with positive screening results, 214 males and 122 females were randomly chosen for G6PD gene analysis. The results showed that 197 (92.1%) males were hemizygote and 108(88.6%) females were mutation carriers with one to four alleles. Among the newborns with negative screening results, 41 males with G6PD 2.6-2.8 U/g Hb and 436 females with G6PD 2.6-4.5 U/g Hb were chosen for genetic analysis.Mutations were detected in 5(12.2%)boys, and 226(51.8%) girls were carriers.G6PD gene Sanger sequency of seven highly suspicious patients showed that c.406C>T, c.551C>T, c.835A>T hemizygote were found in 3 male's samples, respectively. (3) The estimated prevalence of harboring mutation was 6.0% in males and 13.5% in females according to rates of mutation in samples with various levels of G6PD enzyme activities. Six common mutations were c.1388G>A、c.1376G>T, c.95A> G, c.871G>A, c.1024C>T, c.392G>T, accounting for 95.5% of detected alleles .(4) based on results of G6PD gene analysis, the newborn scereening of G6PD deficiency with cutoff value G6PD<2.6 U/g Hb yielded a positive predict value(PPV) of 93.5%, a false-positive rate of 0.5%, and a sensitivity of 99.0% for males. A PPV of 88.5%, a false-positive rate of 0.2% . The prevalence of severe type G6PD deficiency in females was about 1.5%. Compared with to genetic analysis, the sensitivity and PPV of G6PD activity assay in red blood cells were 95.5%, 97.2%, respectively. Conclusions: The prevalence of G6PD deficiency in males was 6.0% in Guangzhou. Six mutations c.1388G>A, c.1376G>T, c.95A>G, c.871G>A, c.1024C>T, c.392G>T accounted for 95.5%. The cutoff value of G6PD<2.6 U/g Hb innewborn screening program and the criteria of biochemical diagnosis could accurately identify G6PD deficiency . Combined with biochemical and molecular analysis will improve the accuracy of diagnosis of G6PD deficiency and detect more heterozygous females.

Prevalence of house dust mite allergens in low-income homes with evaporative coolers in a semiarid climate.

PubMed

Johnston, James D; Barney, Taylor P; Crandall, Justin H; Brown, Marinn A; Westover, Tarah R; Paulson, Sterling M; Smith, Madeleine S; Weber, K Scott

2018-01-02

House dust mites are typically absent in homes in arid and semiarid climates due to low humidity. Evaporative "swamp" cooling significantly increases indoor humidity in dry climates and is suspected of promoting dust mite survival in these regions. We investigated the prevalence and concentration of mite allergens in dust from low-income homes (N = 22) with evaporative coolers in Utah County, Utah. Overall, 15 homes (68.2%) were positive for either Der p 1 or Der f 1 in at least 1 location. Geometric mean allergen levels in mattresses were 0.107 and 0.087 ug/g dust for Der p 1 and Der f 1, respectively. In furniture, levels were 0.143 and 0.165 ug/g dust for Der p1 and Der f 1, respectively. The percentage of positive homes in this study was much higher than previously reported in larger homes with swamp coolers in the same community. These results suggest socioeconomic factors may play a role in dust mite allergen prevalence in homes with evaporative coolers in dry climates.

AGARD (Advisory Group for Aerospace Research and Development) Guide to Aerospace and Defence Technical Report Series in NATO Countries.

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-05-01

am a01 a a 4 a amaa am s as. sae . a s s m ma m a in in I. c-n g ., Onu g n u U g a , u r(D E O n , in E rE n a L n n i a n a n a ug n n i an En a u g...08 C a C 0 w4 4*44* 4 >,06U66b.01.4.. C614 000 00 0L*C0 0@I. 00.- 0 10 CCC -1CC CC C -.4 014.1 " 0 4-A I a.~~’- ~’~4---- 4140 . 14 ~C 0ac30OOOO 4904 a.𔃾

Unexpectedly high mercury concentration in commercial fish feed

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

Choi, H.; Cech, J. Jr.

1995-12-31

Unexpectedly high mercury was found in a commercial fish pellet which has been widely used to feed fish in laboratory and fish farm settings. Researchers working with fish in mercury studies need to know that fish pellets contain mercury and consider the pellets, influence in their results. Mean mercury concentration in the commercial fish pellet was 47.4 ug/g (ranging from 35 to 56 ug Hg/g). Total mercury (T-Hg) in the blood of Sacramento blackfish (orthodon microlepidotus), fed the commercial feed for 8 months, was determined by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Mean blood T-Hg reached a steady state at 41more » ug Hg/L (ranging from 34 to 51 ug Hg/L) during 5 months of feeding after capture from Clear Lake in California. The accumulation of mercury in blood followed a monoexponential pattern, in accordance with a one-compartment model. There were great variations in mercury levels in blood between individual fishes. The mercury concentrations in the blood did not tend to increase with the growth of the fish. In summary, feed sources of mercury need to be considered in mercury exposure experiments.« less

Identification in a pseudoknot of a U.G motif essential for the regulation of the expression of ribosomal protein S15.

PubMed

Bénard, L; Mathy, N; Grunberg-Manago, M; Ehresmann, B; Ehresmann, C; Portier, C

1998-03-03

The ribosomal protein S15 from Escherichia coli binds to a pseudoknot in its own messenger. This interaction is an essential step in the mechanism of S15 translational autoregulation. In a previous study, a recognition determinant for S15 autoregulation, involving a U.G wobble pair, was located in the center of stem I of the pseudoknot. In this study, an extensive mutagenesis analysis has been conducted in and around this U.G pair by comparing the effects of these mutations on the expression level of S15. The results show that the U.G wobble pair cannot be substituted by A.G, C.A, A.C, G.U, or C.G without loss of the autocontrol. In addition, the base pair C.G, adjacent to the 5' side of U, cannot be flipped or changed to another complementary base pair without also inducing derepression of translation. A unique motif, made of only two adjacent base pairs, U.G/C.G, is essential for S15 autoregulation and is presumably involved in direct recognition by the S15 protein.

Equal status in Ultimatum Games promotes rational sharing.

PubMed

Han, Xiao; Cao, Shinan; Bao, Jian-Zhang; Wang, Wen-Xu; Zhang, Boyu; Gao, Zi-You; Sánchez, Angel

2018-01-19

Experiments on the Ultimatum Game (UG) repeatedly show that people's behaviour is far from rational. In UG experiments, a subject proposes how to divide a pot and the other can accept or reject the proposal, in which case both lose everything. While rational people would offer and accept the minimum possible amount, in experiments low offers are often rejected and offers are typically larger than the minimum, and even fair. Several theoretical works have proposed that these results may arise evolutionarily when subjects act in both roles and there is a fixed interaction structure in the population specifying who plays with whom. We report the first experiments on structured UG with subjects playing simultaneously both roles. We observe that acceptance levels of responders approach rationality and proposers accommodate their offers to their environment. More precisely, subjects keep low acceptance levels all the time, but as proposers they follow a best-response-like approach to choose their offers. We thus find that status equality promotes rational sharing while the influence of structure leads to fairer offers compared to well-mixed populations. Our results are far from what is observed in single-role UG experiments and largely different from available predictions based on evolutionary game theory.

Trace element supplementation in hemodialysis patients: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Tonelli, Marcello; Wiebe, Natasha; Thompson, Stephanie; Kinniburgh, David; Klarenbach, Scott W; Walsh, Michael; Bello, Aminu K; Faruque, Labib; Field, Catherine; Manns, Braden J; Hemmelgarn, Brenda R

2015-04-11

People with kidney failure are often deficient in zinc and selenium, but little is known about the optimal way to correct such deficiency. We did a double-blind randomized trial evaluating the effects of zinc (Zn), selenium (Se) and vitamin E added to the standard oral renal vitamin supplement (B and C vitamins) among hemodialysis patients in Alberta, Canada. We evaluated the effect of two daily doses of the new supplement (medium dose: 50 mg Zn, 75 mcg Se, 250 IU vitamin E; low dose: 25 mg Zn, 50 mcg Se, 250 IU vitamin E) compared to the standard supplement on blood concentrations of Se and Zn at 90 days (primary outcome) and 180 days (secondary outcome) as well as safety outcomes. We enrolled 150 participants. The proportion of participants with low zinc status (blood level <815 ug/L) did not differ between the control group and the two intervention groups at 90 days (control 23.9% vs combined intervention groups 23.9%, P > 0.99) or 180 days (18.6% vs 28.2%, P = 0.24). The proportion with low selenium status (blood level <121 ug/L) was similar for controls and the combined intervention groups at 90 days (32.6 vs 19.6%, P = 0.09) and 180 days (34.9% vs 23.5%, P = 0.17). There were no significant differences in the risk of adverse events between the groups. Supplementation with low or medium doses of zinc and selenium did not correct low zinc or selenium status in hemodialysis patients. Future studies should consider higher doses of zinc (≥75 mg/d) and selenium (≥100 mcg/d) with the standard supplement. Registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01473914).

Endocrine-metabolic responses to military field operations: Effects of cold and moderate altitude exposure

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

Floyd, E.; Hackney, A.C.; Hodgdon, J.A.

1991-03-11

Select endocrine-metabolic responses of US Marines to 4.5 day field operations (FOPS) in different environments were examined. Blood and urine samples were collected in the field immediately before and after FOPS at: (1) sea level, neutral temperatures (Ts) (SLN; n = 14), (2) sea level, cold Ts (SLC; n = 16), (3) 2,500 M altitude, neutral Ts (ALN; n = 16), and (4) 2,500 M altitude, cold Ts (ALC; n = 45). Measures examined were testosterone (T), cortisol (C), glucose (Glu), triglycerides (Tg), and urinary ketones (Uket). T decreased pre-post the FOPS in the cold conditions ({bar X}; 6.7 tomore » 5.5 hg/ml; n = 61) but did not change in neutral conditions. C increased pre-post FOPS at SLC (12.1 to 19.8 ug/dl, p < 0.01), ALN (9.3 to 13.9 ug/dl, p < 0.01), and ALC (16.7 to 19.0 ug/dl, p = 0.08). Normoglycemia was maintained under each condition. Tg decreased (p < 0.01) at SLC, ALN, and ALC ({bar X}{triangle}: {minus}59.1, {minus}102.2, {minus}93.3 mg/dl, respectively), but increased at SLN (+74.0 mg/dl). Uket increased post FOPS only at ALN and ALC ({bar X}{triangle}: 3.4 mg/dl and +11.3 mg/dl). The Uket increases were correlated to Tg decreases. Results suggest FOPS induces a slight endocrine stress response, which is augmented with moderate altitude or cold exposure. Furthermore FOPS at altitude, especially in the cold, seems to shift the body towards fat metabolism.« less

A Study of the 5S Ribosomal RNAs of the Vibrionaceae

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-01-01

codon (UAA, UAG, or UGA) TBE Tris-borate-EDTA buffer ug microgram, i.e., 10-’ gram 6 ul microliter. iJe., 10- 6 liter UPG unweighted pair-group UPGMA ...Psy~ww~w .......................... .. 4.------------------ 0 IC 5b. The UPGMA , or UPS average linkage, dendrogram resulting from the...cluster, and the V. damsela - Q. anguillarus doublet are identical to that predicted by UPGMA analysis. C. CONSERVED AND HYPERVARIABLE REGIONS As

Moisture Effects and Peel Testing of Polymethacrylimide and Honeycomb Core in Sandwich/Skin Structures

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-11-01

cure. Nyl o"’ Yttuu" iUg\\ .. ttPI gltnds wpre then hut \\ultd 1rouM tltl’l hyu :». l nd ¥1tUPS I POlttd. Sine.~~’ 1\\otl’l h 1~~t •11 P1Uhts UUII \\hl

Occurrence of Uranium and 222Radon in Glacial and Bedrock Aquifers in the Northern United States, 1993-2003

USGS Publications Warehouse

Ayotte, Joseph D.; Flanagan, Sarah M.; Morrow, William S.

2007-01-01

Water-quality data collected from 1,426 wells during 1993-2003 as part of the U.S. Geological Survey National Water-Quality Assessment (NAWQA) program were evaluated to characterize the water quality in glacial and bedrock aquifers of the northern United States. One of the goals of the NAWQA program is to synthesize data from individual studies across the United States to gain regional- and national-scale information about the behavior of contaminants. This study focused on the regional occurrence and distribution of uranium and 222radon in ground water in the glacial aquifer system of the United States as well as in the Cambrian-Ordovician and the New York and New England crystalline aquifer systems that underlie the glacial aquifer system. The occurrence of uranium and 222radon in ground water has long been a concern throughout the United States. In the glacial aquifers, as well as the Cambrian-Ordovician and the New York and New England crystalline aquifer systems of the United States, concentrations of uranium and 222radon were highly variable. High concentrations of uranium and 222radon affect ground water used for drinking water and for agriculture. A combination of information or data on (1) national-scale ground-water regions, (2) regional-scale glacial depositional models, (3) regional-scale geology, and (4) national-scale terrestrial gamma-ray emissions were used to confirm and(or) refine the regions used in the analysis of the water-chemistry data. Significant differences in the occurrence of uranium and 222radon, based primarily on geologic information were observed and used in this report. In general, uranium was highest in the Columbia Plateau glacial, West-Central glacial, and the New York and New England crystalline aquifer groups (75th percentile concentrations of 22.3, 7.7, and 2.9 micrograms per liter (ug/L), respectively). In the Columbia Plateau glacial and the West-Central glacial aquifer groups, more than 10 percent of wells sampled had concentrations of uranium that exceeded the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) Maximum Contaminant Level of 30 ug/L; in the New York and New England crystalline aquifer group, 4 percent exceeded 30 ug/L. Ground-water samples with high concentrations of uranium were commonly linked to geologic sources rich in uranium. In eight of nine aquifer groups defined for this study, concentrations of uranium correlated significantly with concentrations of sulfate in ground water (Spearman's rho = 0.20 to 0.56; p < 0.05). In the Columbia Plateau, glacial aquifers were derived in part from basaltic lava flows, some felsic volcanic rocks, and some paleo-lake bed materials that may be rich in uranium. In the Columbia Plateau and West-Central glacial aquifer groups, uranium correlated with total dissolved solids, bicarbonate, boron, lithium, selenium, and strontium. In the West-Central glacial aquifer group, rocks such as Cretaceous marine shales, which are abundant in uranium, probably contribute to the high concentrations in ground water; in the southern part of this group, which extends into Nebraska, the glacial or glacial-related sediment may be interbedded with uranium-rich materials that originated to the north and west and in the Rocky Mountains. In New England, crystalline bedrock that is granitic, such as two-mica granites, as well as other high-grade metamorphic rocks, has abundant uranium that is soluble in the predominantly oxic to sub-oxic geochemical conditions. This appears to contribute to high uranium concentrations in ground water. The highest 222radon concentrations were present in samples from wells completed in the New York and New England crystalline aquifer group; the median value (2,122 picocurries per liter (pCi/L)) was about 10 times the median values of all other aquifer groups. More than 25 percent of the samples from the New York and New England crystalline aquifer group wells had 222radon concentrations that exceeded the USEPA Alternative

Effects of ELMs and disruptions on ITER divertor armour materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Federici, G.; Zhitlukhin, A.; Arkhipov, N.; Giniyatulin, R.; Klimov, N.; Landman, I.; Podkovyrov, V.; Safronov, V.; Loarte, A.; Merola, M.

2005-03-01

This paper describes the response of plasma facing components manufactured with tungsten (macro-brush) and CFC to energy loads characteristic of Type I ELMs and disruptions in ITER, in experiments conducted (under an EU/RF collaboration) in two plasma guns (QSPA and MK-200UG) at the TRINITI institute. Targets were exposed to a series of repetitive pulses in QSPA with heat loads in a range of 1-2 MJ/m 2 lasting 0.5 ms. Moderate tungsten erosion, of less than 0.2 μm per pulse, was found for loads of ˜1.5 MJ/m 2, consistent with ELM erosion being determined by tungsten evaporation and not by melt layer displacement. At energy densities of ˜1.8 MJ/m 2 a sharp growth of tungsten erosion was measured together with intense droplet ejection. MK-200UG experiments were focused on studying mainly vapor plasma production and impurity transport during ELMs. The conditions for removal of thin metal deposits from a carbon substrate were characterized.

Immediate effects of plantar inputs on the upper half muscles and upright posture: a preliminary study.

PubMed

Ciuffolo, Fabio; Ferritto, Anna L; Muratore, Filippo; Tecco, Simona; Testa, Mauro; D'Attilio, Michele; Festa, Felice

2006-01-01

This purpose of this study was to investigate the immediate effects of plantar inputs on both the upper half muscle activity (anterior temporal, masseter, digastric, sternocleidomastoid, upper and lower trapezius, cervical) and the body posture, by means of electromyography (EMG) and vertical force platform, respectively. Twenty four (24) healthy adults, between the ages of 24 and 31 years (25.3 +/- 1.9), with no history of craniomandibular disorder or systemic musculoskeletal dysfunction, were randomly divided into two groups: test group (fourteen subjects) and control group (ten subjects). A first recording session (TO) measured the baseline EMG and postural patterns of both groups. After this session, the test group wore test shoes with insoles that stimulated the plantar surfaces, while the control group wore placebo shoes. After one hour, a second set of measurements (T1) were performed. Significant differences between the groups at baseline were observed in the left anterior temporal, left cervical, and left upper trapezius, as well as at T1 in the left anterior temporal and right upper trapezius (p < 0.05). Within-test group analysis showed a significant increase of the right upper trapezius activity (p < 0.05), whereas no changes were found by within-control group analysis. Lower risk of asymmetric muscle patterns and postural blindness in the test group compared to the control group was observed. Further studies are warranted to investigate the short and long-term effects of this type of insole, in patients with both craniomandibular-cervical and lower extremity disorders.

Unmanned Systems Integrated Roadmap, FY2013-2038

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-01-01

29 4.1.7 Sensor Air Drop...Force MQ-1/9 Pilot & Sensor Operator Training Flow ...................................... 106 Figure 39. UAS Training Objectives...the Nation’s 10 years of war wind down, DoD inventories and funding of UGS are expected to decrease in 2014, followed by a gradual upward trend in 2016

A Comparison of Three Quantitative Methods to Estimate G6PD Activity in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, Bangladesh.

PubMed

Ley, Benedikt; Alam, Mohammad Shafiul; O'Donnell, James J; Hossain, Mohammad Sharif; Kibria, Mohammad Golam; Jahan, Nusrat; Khan, Wasif A; Thriemer, Kamala; Chatfield, Mark D; Price, Ric N; Richards, Jack S

2017-01-01

Glucose-6-phosphate-dehydrogenase-deficiency (G6PDd) is a major risk factor for primaquine-induced haemolysis. There is a need for improved point-of-care and laboratory-based G6PD diagnostics to unsure safe use of primaquine. G6PD activities of participants in a cross-sectional survey in Bangladesh were assessed using two novel quantitative assays, the modified WST-8 test and the CareStart™ G6PD Biosensor (Access Bio), The results were compared with a gold standard UV spectrophotometry assay (Randox). The handheld CareStart™ Hb instrument (Access Bio) is designed to be a companion instrument to the CareStart™ G6PD biosensor, and its performance was compared to the well-validated HemoCue™ method. All quantitative G6PD results were normalized with the HemoCue™ result. A total of 1002 individuals were enrolled. The adjusted male median (AMM) derived by spectrophotometry was 7.03 U/g Hb (interquartile range (IQR): 5.38-8.69), by WST-8 was 7.03 U/g Hb (IQR: 5.22-8.16) and by Biosensor was 8.61 U/g Hb (IQR: 6.71-10.08). The AMM between spectrophotometry and WST-8 did not differ (p = 1.0) but differed significantly between spectrophotometry and Biosensor (p<0.01). Both, WST-8 and Biosensor were correlated with spectrophotometry (rs = 0.5 and rs = 0.4, both p<0.001). The mean difference in G6PD activity was -0.12 U/g Hb (95% limit of agreement (95% LoA): -5.45 to 5.20) between spectrophotometry and WST-8 and -1.74U/g Hb (95% LoA: -7.63 to 4.23) between spectrophotometry and Biosensor. The WST-8 identified 55.1% (49/89) and the Biosensor 19.1% (17/89) of individuals with G6PD activity <30% by spectrophotometry. Areas under the ROC curve did not differ significantly for the WST-8 and Biosensor irrespective of the cut-off activity applied (all p>0.05). Sensitivity and specificity for detecting G6PD activity <30% was 0.55 (95% confidence interval (95%CI): 0.44-0.66) and 0.98 (95%CI: 0.97-0.99) respectively for the WST-8 and 0.19 (95%CI: 0.12-0.29) and 0.99 (95%CI: 0.98-0.99) respectively for the Biosensor. Hb concentrations measured by HemoCue™ and CareStart™ Hb were strongly correlated (rs = 0.8, p<0.001, mean difference = 0.09 g Hb/dL, 95% LoA: -2.15 to 2.34). WST-8 and the CareStart™ G6PD Biosensor represent advances in G6PD diagnostics in resource poor settings, but will require further development before clinical deployment. The CareStart™ Hb instrument produced a precise measure of haemoglobin concentration.

A Comparison of Three Quantitative Methods to Estimate G6PD Activity in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, Bangladesh

PubMed Central

Ley, Benedikt; Alam, Mohammad Shafiul; O’Donnell, James J.; Hossain, Mohammad Sharif; Kibria, Mohammad Golam; Jahan, Nusrat; Khan, Wasif A.; Thriemer, Kamala; Chatfield, Mark D.; Price, Ric N.; Richards, Jack S.

2017-01-01

Background Glucose-6-phosphate-dehydrogenase-deficiency (G6PDd) is a major risk factor for primaquine-induced haemolysis. There is a need for improved point-of-care and laboratory-based G6PD diagnostics to unsure safe use of primaquine. Methods G6PD activities of participants in a cross-sectional survey in Bangladesh were assessed using two novel quantitative assays, the modified WST-8 test and the CareStart™ G6PD Biosensor (Access Bio), The results were compared with a gold standard UV spectrophotometry assay (Randox). The handheld CareStart™ Hb instrument (Access Bio) is designed to be a companion instrument to the CareStart™ G6PD biosensor, and its performance was compared to the well-validated HemoCue™ method. All quantitative G6PD results were normalized with the HemoCue™ result. Results A total of 1002 individuals were enrolled. The adjusted male median (AMM) derived by spectrophotometry was 7.03 U/g Hb (interquartile range (IQR): 5.38–8.69), by WST-8 was 7.03 U/g Hb (IQR: 5.22–8.16) and by Biosensor was 8.61 U/g Hb (IQR: 6.71–10.08). The AMM between spectrophotometry and WST-8 did not differ (p = 1.0) but differed significantly between spectrophotometry and Biosensor (p<0.01). Both, WST-8 and Biosensor were correlated with spectrophotometry (rs = 0.5 and rs = 0.4, both p<0.001). The mean difference in G6PD activity was -0.12 U/g Hb (95% limit of agreement (95% LoA): -5.45 to 5.20) between spectrophotometry and WST-8 and -1.74U/g Hb (95% LoA: -7.63 to 4.23) between spectrophotometry and Biosensor. The WST-8 identified 55.1% (49/89) and the Biosensor 19.1% (17/89) of individuals with G6PD activity <30% by spectrophotometry. Areas under the ROC curve did not differ significantly for the WST-8 and Biosensor irrespective of the cut-off activity applied (all p>0.05). Sensitivity and specificity for detecting G6PD activity <30% was 0.55 (95% confidence interval (95%CI): 0.44–0.66) and 0.98 (95%CI: 0.97–0.99) respectively for the WST-8 and 0.19 (95%CI: 0.12–0.29) and 0.99 (95%CI: 0.98–0.99) respectively for the Biosensor. Hb concentrations measured by HemoCue™ and CareStart™ Hb were strongly correlated (rs = 0.8, p<0.001, mean difference = 0.09 g Hb/dL, 95% LoA: -2.15 to 2.34). Conclusion WST-8 and the CareStart™ G6PD Biosensor represent advances in G6PD diagnostics in resource poor settings, but will require further development before clinical deployment. The CareStart™ Hb instrument produced a precise measure of haemoglobin concentration. PMID:28121993

HYSPLIT SMOKE/DUST GRAPHICS

Science.gov Websites

HYSPLIT SMOKE/DUST Forecasts 03 06 09 12 15 18 21 24 27 30 33 36 39 42 45 48 Select speed: normal 28 29 30 31 Select Cycle: 06Z 12Z Select Field: Smoke Fine Particulate matter (ug/m3) Dust Fine Particulate matter (ug/m3) Select vertical level: Surface Column Average Get map NAQFC NCEP Home NOAA Home

Small power systems for law enforcement applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sims, Paul E.; Mauk, Michael G.; Sulima, Oleg V.

2002-08-01

Recent events have increased interest in the use of sensors by law enforcement and homeland defense related organizations. Autonomous sensors such as those under development for the Unattended Ground Sensor (UGS) program are suitable for some of these applications. The operational lifetime of a UGS depends on the power consumption of the package and the space allocated for batteries. We survey and assess options for powering these devices ina long-term scenario. These alternatives are in various stages of development, and range from conventional batteries and solar cells that are ready for deployment and are now commercially available; to technologies developed for other applications (e.g., power for deep-space probes, man portable power for soldiers, or for sensors in oil drilling bore holes) that would need to be adapted to UGS's; to new and often speculative concepts that are in the laboratory or are still on the drawing board. Ideally, unattended ground sensors do not require servicing, re- energizing or refueling; and are capable of autonomous operation for weeks or even years. Further, UGS's may need to be used covertly, which restricts schemes that would provide a detectable signature. Reliability, ruggedness, cost, weight, size, camouflaging, use of toxic materials and other safety or disposal aspects, restrictions on their deployment (e.g., whether UGS's can be dropped form the air or whether they need to be uprighted or favorably oriented), storage and inventorying considerations, temperature ranges of operation, and complexity of associated electronics are also important issues. In this paper, we will limit the discussion to systems where operating power does not exceed 5 watts since larger systems are commercially available. Some subjectivity in comparisons is perhaps inevitable, but despite the disparate physics upon which these devices are based, a few common criteria can be invoked for discussing their suitability for energy storage and powering UGS's. Metrics can be developed to assess and compare options, but since most of the options are in very different stages of development, one is sometimes forced to use performance specifications that are predicted, rather than demonstrated. Thus, in some cases the comparisons are tentative or speculative.

Effect of High-Dose vs Standard-Dose Wintertime Vitamin D Supplementation on Viral Upper Respiratory Tract Infections in Young Healthy Children

PubMed Central

Aglipay, Mary; Birken, Catherine S.; Parkin, Patricia C.; Loeb, Mark B.; Thorpe, Kevin; Chen, Yang; Laupacis, Andreas; Mamdani, Muhammad; Macarthur, Colin; Hoch, Jeffrey S.; Mazzulli, Tony

2017-01-01

Importance Epidemiological studies support a link between low 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels and a higher risk of viral upper respiratory tract infections. However, whether winter supplementation of vitamin D reduces the risk among children is unknown. Objective To determine whether high-dose vs standard-dose vitamin D supplementation reduces the incidence of wintertime upper respiratory tract infections in young children. Design, Setting, and Participants A randomized clinical trial was conducted during the winter months between September 13, 2011, and June 30, 2015, among children aged 1 through 5 years enrolled in TARGet Kids!, a multisite primary care practice–based research network in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Interventions Three hundred forty-nine participants were randomized to receive 2000 IU/d of vitamin D oral supplementation (high-dose group) vs 354 participants who were randomized to receive 400 IU/d (standard-dose group) for a minimum of 4 months between September and May. Main Outcome Measures The primary outcome was the number of laboratory-confirmed viral upper respiratory tract infections based on parent-collected nasal swabs over the winter months. Secondary outcomes included the number of influenza infections, noninfluenza infections, parent-reported upper respiratory tract illnesses, time to first upper respiratory tract infection, and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels at study termination. Results Among 703 participants who were randomized (mean age, 2.7 years, 57.7% boys), 699 (99.4%) completed the trial. The mean number of laboratory-confirmed upper respiratory tract infections per child was 1.05 (95% CI, 0.91-1.19) for the high-dose group and 1.03 (95% CI, 0.90-1.16) for the standard-dose group, for a between-group difference of 0.02 (95% CI, −0.17 to 0.21) per child. There was no statistically significant difference in number of laboratory-confirmed infections between groups (incidence rate ratio [RR], 0.97; 95% CI, 0.80-1.16). There was also no significant difference in the median time to the first laboratory-confirmed infection: 3.95 months (95% CI, 3.02-5.95 months) for the high-dose group vs 3.29 months (95% CI, 2.66-4.14 months) for the standard-dose group, or number of parent-reported upper respiratory tract illnesses between groups (625 for high-dose vs 600 for standard-dose groups, incidence RR, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.88-1.16). At study termination, serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels were 48.7 ng/mL (95% CI, 46.9-50.5 ng/mL) in the high-dose group and 36.8 ng/mL (95% CI, 35.4-38.2 ng/mL) in the standard-dose group. Conclusions and Relevance Among healthy children aged 1 to 5 years, daily administration of 2000 IU compared with 400 IU of vitamin D supplementation did not reduce overall wintertime upper respiratory tract infections. These findings do not support the routine use of high-dose vitamin D supplementation in children for the prevention of viral upper respiratory tract infections. Trial Registration clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01419262 PMID:28719693

Effect of High-Dose vs Standard-Dose Wintertime Vitamin D Supplementation on Viral Upper Respiratory Tract Infections in Young Healthy Children.

PubMed

Aglipay, Mary; Birken, Catherine S; Parkin, Patricia C; Loeb, Mark B; Thorpe, Kevin; Chen, Yang; Laupacis, Andreas; Mamdani, Muhammad; Macarthur, Colin; Hoch, Jeffrey S; Mazzulli, Tony; Maguire, Jonathon L

2017-07-18

Epidemiological studies support a link between low 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels and a higher risk of viral upper respiratory tract infections. However, whether winter supplementation of vitamin D reduces the risk among children is unknown. To determine whether high-dose vs standard-dose vitamin D supplementation reduces the incidence of wintertime upper respiratory tract infections in young children. A randomized clinical trial was conducted during the winter months between September 13, 2011, and June 30, 2015, among children aged 1 through 5 years enrolled in TARGet Kids!, a multisite primary care practice-based research network in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Three hundred forty-nine participants were randomized to receive 2000 IU/d of vitamin D oral supplementation (high-dose group) vs 354 participants who were randomized to receive 400 IU/d (standard-dose group) for a minimum of 4 months between September and May. The primary outcome was the number of laboratory-confirmed viral upper respiratory tract infections based on parent-collected nasal swabs over the winter months. Secondary outcomes included the number of influenza infections, noninfluenza infections, parent-reported upper respiratory tract illnesses, time to first upper respiratory tract infection, and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels at study termination. Among 703 participants who were randomized (mean age, 2.7 years, 57.7% boys), 699 (99.4%) completed the trial. The mean number of laboratory-confirmed upper respiratory tract infections per child was 1.05 (95% CI, 0.91-1.19) for the high-dose group and 1.03 (95% CI, 0.90-1.16) for the standard-dose group, for a between-group difference of 0.02 (95% CI, -0.17 to 0.21) per child. There was no statistically significant difference in number of laboratory-confirmed infections between groups (incidence rate ratio [RR], 0.97; 95% CI, 0.80-1.16). There was also no significant difference in the median time to the first laboratory-confirmed infection: 3.95 months (95% CI, 3.02-5.95 months) for the high-dose group vs 3.29 months (95% CI, 2.66-4.14 months) for the standard-dose group, or number of parent-reported upper respiratory tract illnesses between groups (625 for high-dose vs 600 for standard-dose groups, incidence RR, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.88-1.16). At study termination, serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels were 48.7 ng/mL (95% CI, 46.9-50.5 ng/mL) in the high-dose group and 36.8 ng/mL (95% CI, 35.4-38.2 ng/mL) in the standard-dose group. Among healthy children aged 1 to 5 years, daily administration of 2000 IU compared with 400 IU of vitamin D supplementation did not reduce overall wintertime upper respiratory tract infections. These findings do not support the routine use of high-dose vitamin D supplementation in children for the prevention of viral upper respiratory tract infections. clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01419262.

Effect of Virtual Reality-based Bilateral Upper Extremity Training on Upper Extremity Function after Stroke: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial.

PubMed

Lee, Suhyun; Kim, Yumi; Lee, Byoung-Hee

2016-12-01

In the present study, we aimed to investigate the effect of virtual reality-based bilateral upper extremity training (VRBT) on paretic upper limb function and muscle strength in patients with stroke. Eighteen stroke survivors were assigned to either the VRBT group (n = 10) or the bilateral upper limb training group (BT, n = 8). Patients in the VRBT group performed bilateral upper extremity exercises in a virtual reality environment, whereas those in the BT group performed conventional bilateral upper extremity exercises. All training was conducted for 30 minutes day -1 , 3 days a week, for a period of 6 weeks. Patients were assessed for upper extremity function and hand strength. Compared with the BT group, the VRBT group exhibited significant improvements in upper extremity function and muscle strength (p < 0.05) after the 6-week training programme. The Box and Block test results revealed that upper extremity function and elbow flexion in hand strength were significantly improved in terms of group, time and interaction effect of group by time. Furthermore, the VRBT group demonstrated significant improvements in upper extremity function, as measured by the Jebsen Hand Function Test and Grooved Pegboard test, and in the hand strength test, as measured by elbow extension, grip, palmar pinch, lateral pinch and tip pinch, in both time and the interaction effect of group by time. These results suggest that VRBT is a feasible and beneficial means of improving upper extremity function and muscle strength in individuals following stroke. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Upper limb joint muscle/tendon injury and anthropometric adaptations in French competitive tennis players.

PubMed

Rogowski, Isabelle; Creveaux, Thomas; Genevois, Cyril; Klouche, Shahnaz; Rahme, Michel; Hardy, Philippe

2016-01-01

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between the upper limb anthropometric dimensions and a history of dominant upper limb injury in tennis players. Dominant and non-dominant wrist, forearm, elbow and arm circumferences, along with a history of dominant upper limb injuries, were assessed in 147 male and female players, assigned to four groups based on location of injury: wrist (n = 9), elbow (n = 25), shoulder (n = 14) and healthy players (n = 99). From anthropometric dimensions, bilateral differences in circumferences and in proportions were calculated. The wrist group presented a significant bilateral difference in arm circumference, and asymmetrical bilateral proportions between wrist and forearm, as well as between elbow and arm, compared to the healthy group (6.6 ± 3.1% vs. 4.9 ± 4.0%, P < 0.01; -3.6 ± 3.0% vs. -0.9 ± 2.9%, P < 0.05; and -2.2 ± 2.2% vs. 0.1 ± 3.4%, P < 0.05, respectively). The elbow group displayed asymmetrical bilateral proportions between forearm and arm compared to the healthy group (-0.4 ± 4.3% vs. 1.5 ± 4.0%, P < 0.01). The shoulder group showed significant bilateral difference in elbow circumference, and asymmetrical bilateral proportions between forearm and elbow when compared to the healthy group (5.8 ± 4.7% vs. 3.1 ± 4.8%, P < 0.05 and -1.7 ± 4.5% vs. 1.4 ± 4.3%, P < 0.01, respectively). These findings suggest that players with a history of injury at the upper limb joint present altered dominant upper limb proportions in comparison with the non-dominant side, and such asymmetrical proportions would appear to be specific to the location of injury. Further studies are needed to confirm the link between location of tennis injury and asymmetry in upper limb proportions using high-tech measurements in symptomatic tennis players.

Co-inheritance of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency mutations and hemoglobin E in a Kachin population in a malaria-endemic region of Southeast Asia

PubMed Central

He, Lijun; Li, Qing; Wu, Yanrui; Luo, Lan; Li, Hong; Ma, Limei; Yang, Zhaoqing; He, Yongshu; Cui, Liwang

2017-01-01

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency and hemoglobin E (HbE, β26 Glu-Lys) are two common red cell disorders in Southeast Asia. G6PD deficiency produces hemolytic anemia, which can be triggered by certain drugs or infections. HbE is asymptomatic or is manifested as microcytic, minimally hemolytic anemia. The association between G6PD deficiency and HbE is little understood. This study aimed to investigate G6PD deficiency and HbE in a Kachin ethnic group in the China-Myanmar border area. G6PD enzyme activity was measured using a quantitative G6PD assay, G6PD variants genotyped by the SNaPshot assay, and an HbE gene mutation identified by an amplification refractory mutation system and subsequently confirmed by using a reverse dot blot hybridization assay from 100 unrelated individuals in the study area. G6PD enzyme activity ranged from 0.4 to 24.7 U/g Hb, and six males had severe G6PD deficiency (<0.12–1.2 U/g Hb), while six males and 12 females had mild G6PD deficiency (>1.2–4.5 U/g Hb). Among the 24 G6PD-deficient subjects, 22 (92%) had the Mahidol 487G>A mutation (12 male hemizygotes, one female homozygote, and nine female heterozygotes), while the G6PD genotypes in two female subjects were unknown. HbE was identified in 39 subjects (20 males and 19 females), including 15 HbEE (seven males and eight females) and 24 HbAE (13 males and 11 females). Twenty-three subjects co-inherited both G6PD deficiency and HbE (22 with HbAE and one with HbEE). Whereas mean Hb levels were not significantly different between the HbA and HbE groups, G6PD-deficient males had significantly lower Hb levels than G6PD-normal males (P < 0.05, t-test). However, it is noteworthy that two G6PD-deficient hemizygous males with HbAE were severely anemic with Hb levels below 50 g/L. This study revealed high prevalence of co-inheritance of G6PD deficiency with HbAE in the Kachin ethnicity, and a potential interaction of the G6PD Mahidol 487G>A and HbAE in males leading to severe anemia. The presence of 6% males with severe G6PD deficiency raised a major concern in the use of primaquine for radical cure of vivax malaria. PMID:28531196

Co-inheritance of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency mutations and hemoglobin E in a Kachin population in a malaria-endemic region of Southeast Asia.

PubMed

Deng, Zeshuai; Yang, Fang; Bai, Yao; He, Lijun; Li, Qing; Wu, Yanrui; Luo, Lan; Li, Hong; Ma, Limei; Yang, Zhaoqing; He, Yongshu; Cui, Liwang

2017-01-01

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency and hemoglobin E (HbE, β26 Glu-Lys) are two common red cell disorders in Southeast Asia. G6PD deficiency produces hemolytic anemia, which can be triggered by certain drugs or infections. HbE is asymptomatic or is manifested as microcytic, minimally hemolytic anemia. The association between G6PD deficiency and HbE is little understood. This study aimed to investigate G6PD deficiency and HbE in a Kachin ethnic group in the China-Myanmar border area. G6PD enzyme activity was measured using a quantitative G6PD assay, G6PD variants genotyped by the SNaPshot assay, and an HbE gene mutation identified by an amplification refractory mutation system and subsequently confirmed by using a reverse dot blot hybridization assay from 100 unrelated individuals in the study area. G6PD enzyme activity ranged from 0.4 to 24.7 U/g Hb, and six males had severe G6PD deficiency (<0.12-1.2 U/g Hb), while six males and 12 females had mild G6PD deficiency (>1.2-4.5 U/g Hb). Among the 24 G6PD-deficient subjects, 22 (92%) had the Mahidol 487G>A mutation (12 male hemizygotes, one female homozygote, and nine female heterozygotes), while the G6PD genotypes in two female subjects were unknown. HbE was identified in 39 subjects (20 males and 19 females), including 15 HbEE (seven males and eight females) and 24 HbAE (13 males and 11 females). Twenty-three subjects co-inherited both G6PD deficiency and HbE (22 with HbAE and one with HbEE). Whereas mean Hb levels were not significantly different between the HbA and HbE groups, G6PD-deficient males had significantly lower Hb levels than G6PD-normal males (P < 0.05, t-test). However, it is noteworthy that two G6PD-deficient hemizygous males with HbAE were severely anemic with Hb levels below 50 g/L. This study revealed high prevalence of co-inheritance of G6PD deficiency with HbAE in the Kachin ethnicity, and a potential interaction of the G6PD Mahidol 487G>A and HbAE in males leading to severe anemia. The presence of 6% males with severe G6PD deficiency raised a major concern in the use of primaquine for radical cure of vivax malaria.

Upper cervical and upper thoracic thrust manipulation versus nonthrust mobilization in patients with mechanical neck pain: a multicenter randomized clinical trial.

PubMed

Dunning, James R; Cleland, Joshua A; Waldrop, Mark A; Arnot, Cathy F; Young, Ian A; Turner, Michael; Sigurdsson, Gisli

2012-01-01

Randomized clinical trial. To compare the short-term effects of upper cervical and upper thoracic high-velocity low-amplitude (HVLA) thrust manipulation to nonthrust mobilization in patients with neck pain. Although upper cervical and upper thoracic HVLA thrust manipulation and nonthrust mobilization are common interventions for the management of neck pain, no studies have directly compared the effects of both upper cervical and upper thoracic HVLA thrust manipulation to nonthrust mobilization in patients with neck pain. Patients completed the Neck Disability Index, the numeric pain rating scale, the flexion-rotation test for measurement of C1-2 passive rotation range of motion, and the craniocervical flexion test for measurement of deep cervical flexor motor performance. Following the baseline evaluation, patients were randomized to receive either HVLA thrust manipulation or nonthrust mobilization to the upper cervical (C1-2) and upper thoracic (T1-2) spines. Patients were reexamined 48-hours after the initial examination and again completed the outcome measures. The effects of treatment on disability, pain, C1-2 passive rotation range of motion, and motor performance of the deep cervical flexors were examined with a 2-by-2 mixed-model analysis of variance (ANOVA). One hundred seven patients satisfied the eligibility criteria, agreed to participate, and were randomized into the HVLA thrust manipulation (n = 56) and nonthrust mobilization (n = 51) groups. The 2-by-2 ANOVA demonstrated that patients with mechanical neck pain who received the combination of upper cervical and upper thoracic HVLA thrust manipulation experienced significantly (P<.001) greater reductions in disability (50.5%) and pain (58.5%) than those of the nonthrust mobilization group (12.8% and 12.6%, respectively) following treatment. In addition, the HVLA thrust manipulation group had significantly (P<.001) greater improvement in both passive C1-2 rotation range of motion and motor performance of the deep cervical flexor muscles as compared to the group that received nonthrust mobilization. The number needed to treat to avoid an unsuccessful outcome was 1.8 and 2.3 at 48-hour follow-up, using the global rating of change and Neck Disability Index cut scores, respectively. The combination of upper cervical and upper thoracic HVLA thrust manipulation is appreciably more effective in the short term than nonthrust mobilization in patients with mechanical neck pain. Therapy, level 1b.

Pros and cons of the gasless laparoscopic transhiatal esophagectomy for upper esophageal carcinoma.

PubMed

Yu, Lei; Wu, Ji-Xiang; Gao, Yu-Shun; Li, Jian-Ye; Zhang, Yun-Feng; Ke, Ji

2016-06-01

Controversies on how to treat upper esophageal carcinoma have existed for several decades. With the application of minimally invasive techniques, surgical treatment to upper esophageal carcinoma tends to show more advantages and attract more patients. Up to now, most hospitals adopted the combined thoracoscopic and laparoscopic esophagectomy (CTLE) as the way of minimally invasive surgery for upper esophageal carcinoma. But CTLE to treat upper esophageal carcinoma has its drawbacks, such as demanding certain pulmonary function and severe postoperative regurgitation. In 2011, we developed the gasless laparoscopic transhiatal esophagectomy (LTE) to treat upper esophageal carcinoma, which showed some advantages. The aim of this article was to compare LTE with CTLE in treating upper thoracic or cervical esophageal carcinoma and assess the value of LTE. From 2009 to 2014, esophagectomy has been performed by the introduction of minimally invasive surgery in a total of 83 patients with upper thoracic or cervical esophageal carcinoma. Among these patients, LTE was performed in 27 cases (Group 1), while CTLE was performed in the other 56 (Group 2). Neoadjuvant chemotherapy was done in patients of Group 1. There were no operation-related deaths and conversion to open procedure. There was no significant difference in postoperative complications, ventilation time, ICU stay, hospital stay, and anastomotic leak rates between the two groups. But LTE was associated with shorter operative time and less intraoperative blood loss. In Group 2, 21 (37.5 %) patients had postoperative pulmonary complications, while in Group 1, there were 6 (22.2 %) patients having pulmonary complications at least one time. Results of 24-h pH monitoring and manometry showed that postoperative laryngo-pharyngeal reflux (PLPR) was more severe in Group 2 patients than in Group 1; for Group 1, PLPR mainly occurred on sleep stage, while for Group 2, PLPR might exist all the day with short intervals and last longer at night. The median overall survival was 27.2 months after CTLE and 30.8 months after LTE (P = 0.962). There was no significant difference in survival at 2, 3 and 4 years between the two groups. Compared with CTLE, LTE is a more minimally invasive approach to effectively treat patients with upper esophageal carcinoma. Laryngo-pharyngeal reflux after LTE was less severe than that after CTLE, which might lower incidence of pulmonary complications. For the elderly patients, LTE seems more suitable.

Modified Full Thickness Graded Blepharotomy for Upper Eyelid Retraction Associated With Thyroid Eye Disease in East Asians.

PubMed

Lee, Joonsik; Lee, Hwa; Park, Minsoo; Baek, Sehyun

2016-12-01

To evaluate the functional and cosmetic outcomes of modified full thickness graded blepharotomy when used for East Asian patients with upper eyelid retraction of thyroid eye disease (TED). Medical records of each patient who underwent modified full-thickness blepharotomy at Korea University Guro Hospitals from January 2009 to February 2014 to correct upper eyelid retraction resulting from TED were retrospectively reviewed. Modified full-thickness graded blepharotomies were performed on 22 eyelids of 18 patients. The most common preoperative upper eyelid retraction-associated symptom was asymmetry of the upper eyelid (14 patients, 77.7%) followed by discomfort (10 patients, 55.5%), photophobia (5 patients, 27.7%), and epiphora (4 patients, 22.2%). Most preoperative symptoms improved after blepharotomy (Table 1). Preoperatively, upper eyelid retraction (MRD1; midpupil marginal reflex distance) ranged from 2.3 mm to 6.8 mm (mean, 5.23 ± 0.89) in 22 lids; postoperatively, lid retraction significantly decreased to 3.26 ± 1.23 mm (P = 0.03 by independent t test) (Table 2). Lid retraction was divided into 3 groups according to severity; a severe group (5 eyelids, 27.7%), a moderate group (14 eyelids, 63.6%), and a mild group (3 eyelids, 13.6%). The MRD1 improved regardless of severity (P = 0.03 in the severe group, P = 0.02 in the moderate group, and P = 0.04 in the mild group by independent t test). The MRD1 improvement did not differ significantly among groups (P = 0.08 by Pearson χ t test). At 6 months postoperatively, the midpupil marginal reflex distance was the perfect height in 13 of 22 lids (59.0%), with a mean reduction of 3 mm, whereas 7 of 22 eyelids (31.8%) were at acceptable height and 2 eyelids (9.0%) showed failure. Overall, 18 eyelids (90.9%) exhibited objectively satisfactory results (perfect or acceptable) at 6 months after surgery (Table 3). Modified graded full thickness eyelid blepharotomy is a reliable and safe method for upper eyelid lengthening for East Asian patients with upper eyelid retraction of TED that offers excellent functional and cosmetic results.

Cardiometabolic Risks During Anabolic Hormone Supplementation in Older Men

PubMed Central

He, J.; Bhasin, S; Binder, E.F.; Yarasheski, K.E.; Castaneda-Sceppa, C.; Schroeder, E.T.; Roubenoff, R.; Chou, C-P.; Azen, S.P.; Sattler, F.R.

2012-01-01

There is little prospective information on the cardiometabolic risks of testosterone and growth hormone (GH) replacement therapy to youthful levels during aging. We conducted a double-masked, partially placebo controlled study in 112 men 65–90 years-old. Transdermal testosterone (5g-vs-10g/day) using a Leydig Cell Clamp and subcutaneous recombinant GH (rhGH) (0-vs-3-vs-5ug/kg/day) were administered for 16-weeks. Measurements included testosterone and IGF-1 levels, body composition by DEXA, and cardiometabolic risk factors (upper body fat, blood pressure, insulin sensitivity, fasting triglycerides, HDL-cholesterol, and serum adiponectin) at baseline and after 16 weeks of treatment. Some cardiometabolic factors improved (total and trunk fat, triglycerides, HDL-cholesterol) and others worsened (systolic blood pressure, insulin sensitivity index [QUICKI], adiponectin). Cardiometabolic risk composite scores (CRCS) improved (−0.69±1.55, p<0.001). In multivariate analyses, QUICKI, triglycerides, and HDL-cholesterol contributed 33%, 16%, and 14% of the variance in CRCS, respectively. Pathway analyses indicated that changes in fat and lean mass were related to individual cardiometabolic variables and CRCS in a complex manner. Changes in BMI, reflecting composite effects of changes in fat and lean mass, were more robustly associated with cardiometabolic risks than changes in fat mass or LBM individually. In conclusion, testosterone and rhGH administration was associated with diverse changes in individual cardiometabolic risk factors, but in aggregate appeared not to worsen cardiometabolic risk in healthy older men after 4-months. The long term effects of these and similar anabolic therapies on cardiovascular events should be investigated in populations with greater funtional limitations along with important health disabilities including upper body obesity and other cardiometabolic risks. PMID:23784898

Impact of the rural pipeline in medical education: practice locations of recently graduated family physicians in Ontario.

PubMed

Wenghofer, Elizabeth F; Hogenbirk, John C; Timony, Patrick E

2017-02-20

The "rural pipeline" suggests that students educated in rural, or other underserviced areas, are more likely to establish practices in such locations. It is upon this concept that the Northern Ontario School of Medicine (NOSM) was founded. Our analysis answers the following question: Are physicians who were educated at NOSM more likely to practice in rural and northern Ontario compared with physicians who were educated at other Canadian medical schools? We used data from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario. We compared practice locations of certified Ontario family physicians who had graduated from NOSM vs. other Canadian medical schools in 2009 or later. We categorized the physicians according to where they completed their undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) training, either at NOSM or elsewhere. We used logistic regression models to determine if the location of UG and PG training was associated with rural or northern Ontario practice location. Of the 535 physicians examined, 67 had completed UG and/or PG medical education at NOSM. Over two thirds of physicians with any NOSM education were practicing in northern areas and 25.4% were practicing in rural areas of Ontario compared with those having no NOSM education, with 4.3 and 10.3% in northern and rural areas, respectively. Physicians who graduated from NOSM-UG were more likely to have practices located in rural Ontario (OR = 2.57; p = 0.014) whereas NOSM-PG physicians were more likely to have practices in northern Ontario (OR = 57.88; p < 0.001). NOSM education was associated with an increased likelihood of practicing in rural (NOSM-UG) and northern (NOSM-PG) Ontario.

The mirror therapy program enhances upper-limb motor recovery and motor function in acute stroke patients.

PubMed

Lee, Myung Mo; Cho, Hwi-Young; Song, Chang Ho

2012-08-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of the mirror therapy program on upper-limb motor recovery and motor function in patients with acute stroke. Twenty-six patients who had an acute stroke within 6 mos of study commencement were assigned to the experimental group (n = 13) or the control group (n = 13). Both experimental and control group members participated in a standard rehabilitation program, but only the experimental group members additionally participated in mirror therapy program, for 25 mins twice a day, five times a week, for 4 wks. The Fugl-Meyer Assessment, Brunnstrom motor recovery stage, and Manual Function Test were used to assess changes in upper-limb motor recovery and motor function after intervention. In upper-limb motor recovery, the scores of Fugl-Meyer Assessment (by shoulder/elbow/forearm items, 9.54 vs. 4.61; wrist items, 2.76 vs. 1.07; hand items, 4.43 vs. 1.46, respectively) and Brunnstrom stages for upper limb and hand (by 1.77 vs. 0.69 and 1.92 vs. 0.50, respectively) were improved more in the experimental group than in the control group (P < 0.05). In upper-limb motor function, the Manual Function Test score (by shoulder item, 5.00 vs. 2.23; hand item, 5.07 vs. 0.46, respectively) was significantly increased in the experimental group compared with the control group (P < 0.01). No significant differences were found between the groups for the coordination items in Fugl-Meyer Assessment. This study confirms that mirror therapy program is an effective intervention for upper-limb motor recovery and motor function improvement in acute stroke patients. Additional research on mirror therapy program components, intensity, application time, and duration could result in it being used as a standardized form of hand rehabilitation in clinics and homes.

The role of cognitive and emotional perspective taking in economic decision making in the ultimatum game.

PubMed

Takagishi, Haruto; Koizumi, Michiko; Fujii, Takayuki; Schug, Joanna; Kameshima, Shinya; Yamagishi, Toshio

2014-01-01

We conducted a simple resource allocation game known as the ultimatum game (UG) with preschoolers to examine the role of cognitive and emotional perspective-taking ability on allocation and rejection behavior. A total of 146 preschoolers played the UG and completed a false belief task and an emotional perspective-taking test. Results showed that cognitive perspective taking ability had a significant positive effect on the proposer's offer and a negative effect on the responder's rejection behavior, whereas emotional perspective taking ability did not impact either the proposer's or responder's behavior. These results imply that the ability to anticipate the responder's beliefs, but not their emotional state, plays an important role in the proposer's choice of a fair allocation in an UG, and that children who have not acquired theory of mind still reject unfair offers.

Vehicle Counting and Moving Direction Identification Based on Small-Aperture Microphone Array.

PubMed

Zu, Xingshui; Zhang, Shaojie; Guo, Feng; Zhao, Qin; Zhang, Xin; You, Xing; Liu, Huawei; Li, Baoqing; Yuan, Xiaobing

2017-05-10

The varying trend of a moving vehicle's angles provides much important intelligence for an unattended ground sensor (UGS) monitoring system. The present study investigates the capabilities of a small-aperture microphone array (SAMA) based system to identify the number and moving direction of vehicles travelling on a previously established route. In this paper, a SAMA-based acoustic monitoring system, including the system hardware architecture and algorithm mechanism, is designed as a single node sensor for the application of UGS. The algorithm is built on the varying trend of a vehicle's bearing angles around the closest point of approach (CPA). We demonstrate the effectiveness of our proposed method with our designed SAMA-based monitoring system in various experimental sites. The experimental results in harsh conditions validate the usefulness of our proposed UGS monitoring system.

Nonaqueous, mini-dose glucagon for treatment of mild hypoglycemia in adults with type 1 diabetes: A dose-seeking study

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

To evaluate mini-dose glucagon in adults with type 1 diabetes using a stable, liquid, ready-to-use preparation, twelve adults with type 1 diabetes receiving treatment with insulin pumps received subcutaneous doses of 75, 150, and 300 ug of nonaqueous glucagon. Plasma glucose, glucagon, and insulin c...

Ornithine Decarboxylase Activity Is Required for Prostatic Budding in the Developing Mouse Prostate

PubMed Central

Gamat, Melissa; Malinowski, Rita L.; Parkhurst, Linnea J.; Steinke, Laura M.; Marker, Paul C.

2015-01-01

The prostate is a male accessory sex gland that produces secretions in seminal fluid to facilitate fertilization. Prostate secretory function is dependent on androgens, although the mechanism by which androgens exert their effects is still unclear. Polyamines are small cationic molecules that play pivotal roles in DNA transcription, translation and gene regulation. The rate-limiting enzyme in polyamine biosynthesis is ornithine decarboxylase, which is encoded by the gene Odc1. Ornithine decarboxylase mRNA decreases in the prostate upon castration and increases upon administration of androgens. Furthermore, testosterone administered to castrated male mice restores prostate secretory activity, whereas administering testosterone and the ornithine decarboxylase inhibitor D,L-α-difluromethylornithine (DFMO) to castrated males does not restore prostate secretory activity, suggesting that polyamines are required for androgens to exert their effects. To date, no one has examined polyamines in prostate development, which is also androgen dependent. In this study, we showed that ornithine decarboxylase protein was expressed in the epithelium of the ventral, dorsolateral and anterior lobes of the adult mouse prostate. Ornithine decarboxylase protein was also expressed in the urogenital sinus (UGS) epithelium of the male and female embryo prior to prostate development, and expression continued in prostatic epithelial buds as they emerged from the UGS. Inhibiting ornithine decarboxylase using DFMO in UGS organ culture blocked the induction of prostatic buds by androgens, and significantly decreased expression of key prostate transcription factor, Nkx3.1, by androgens. DFMO also significantly decreased the expression of developmental regulatory gene Notch1. Other genes implicated in prostatic development including Sox9, Wif1 and Srd5a2 were unaffected by DFMO. Together these results indicate that Odc1 and polyamines are required for androgens to exert their effect in mediating prostatic bud induction, and are required for the expression of a subset of prostatic developmental regulatory genes including Notch1 and Nkx3.1. PMID:26426536

Emergent Knowledge of a Universal Phonological Principle in the L2 Acquisition of Vowel Harmony in Turkish: A "Four"-Fold Poverty of the Stimulus in L2 Acquisition

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Özçelik, Öner; Sprouse, Rex A.

2017-01-01

A significant body of theoretically motivated research has addressed the role of Universal Grammar (UG) in the nonnative acquisition of morphosyntax and properties of the syntax-semantics interface, but very little research has addressed the role of phonological principles of UG in nonnative language acquisition. Turkish has a regular and…

Abstracts of ARI Research Publications, FY 1977

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-04-01

significant part of the job and (b) the amount of preparation needed. Excluding technical skill specialty activities , the jobs of company corianders in...ground sensors (UGS). When personnel or vehicle movements 4 activate a UGS in the vicinity, a monitor display elsewhere indicates the activation . This...Operators were able to detect more targets during periods of low target activity than during periods of high target activity . However, accuracy of

HYSPLIT SMOKE/DUST GRAPHICS

Science.gov Websites

HYSPLIT SMOKE/DUST Forecasts 03 06 09 12 15 18 21 24 27 30 33 36 39 42 45 48 Select speed: normal 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Select Cycle: 06Z Select Field: Smoke Fine Particulate matter (ug/m3) Dust Fine Particulate matter (ug/m3) Select vertical level: Surface Column Average Get map

Evaluating detection and estimation capabilities of magnetometer-based vehicle sensors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Slater, David M.; Jacyna, Garry M.

2013-05-01

In an effort to secure the northern and southern United States borders, MITRE has been tasked with developing Modeling and Simulation (M&S) tools that accurately capture the mapping between algorithm-level Measures of Performance (MOP) and system-level Measures of Effectiveness (MOE) for current/future surveillance systems deployed by the the Customs and Border Protection Office of Technology Innovations and Acquisitions (OTIA). This analysis is part of a larger M&S undertaking. The focus is on two MOPs for magnetometer-based Unattended Ground Sensors (UGS). UGS are placed near roads to detect passing vehicles and estimate properties of the vehicle's trajectory such as bearing and speed. The first MOP considered is the probability of detection. We derive probabilities of detection for a network of sensors over an arbitrary number of observation periods and explore how the probability of detection changes when multiple sensors are employed. The performance of UGS is also evaluated based on the level of variance in the estimation of trajectory parameters. We derive the Cramer-Rao bounds for the variances of the estimated parameters in two cases: when no a priori information is known and when the parameters are assumed to be Gaussian with known variances. Sample results show that UGS perform significantly better in the latter case.

Urogenital anomalies in girls with sacrococcygeal teratoma: a commonly missed association.

PubMed

Shalaby, Mohamed Sameh; O'Toole, Stuart; Driver, Chris; Bradnock, Tim; Lam, Jimmy; Carachi, Robert

2012-02-01

The association of urogenital (UG) anomalies and sacrococcygeal teratoma (SCT) has not been widely reported. Our aim was to look at the national incidence and presentation of this anomaly in patients with SCT and to provide the first report of a clear anatomical description of this commonly missed association. Sacrococcygeal teratoma cases in Scotland during the last 30 years were identified. Patients with associated UG anomalies were reviewed in detail to identify their presentation, anatomy, and management. Fifty-three patients with SCT were identified, including 41 girls. Five girls (12%) subsequently had a UG anomaly diagnosed, which was not apparent at the initial surgery. Two patients presented with retention, and their anomaly was diagnosed at 6 weeks and 7 months of age. The other 3 presented with incontinence, and despite thorough assessment, including cystoscopy, their UG anomalies were not recognized until the ages of 7, 9, and 13 years. Urogenital anomalies are surprisingly common in girls with SCT. The reason for this association is unclear. None of these cases were diagnosed initially, which means that it was either missed or acquired. Urogenital anomalies should be suspected in girls with SCT and actively excluded in those with voiding difficulties. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Neural correlates of decision making after unfair treatment

PubMed Central

Wu, Yan; Zang, Yufeng; Yuan, Binke; Tian, Xuehong

2015-01-01

Empirical evidence indicates that people are inequity averse. However, it is unclear whether and how suffering unfairness impacts subsequent behavior. We investigated the consequences of unfair treatment in subsequent interactions with new interaction partners and the associated neural mechanisms. Participants were experimentally manipulated to experience fair or unfair treatment in the ultimatum game (UG), and subsequently, they were given the opportunity to retaliate in the dictator game (DG) in their interactions with players who had not played a role in the previous fair or unfair treatment. The results showed that participants dictated less money to unrelated partners after frequently receiving unfair offers in the previous UG (vs. frequently receiving fair offers in the previous UG), but only when they were first exposed to unfair UG/DG. Stronger activation in the right dorsal anterior insula was found during receiving unfair offers and during the subsequent offer-considering phase. The regional homogeneity (ReHo), a measure of the local synchronization of neighboring voxels in resting-state brain activity, in the left ventral anterior insula and left superior temporal pole was positively correlated with the behavior change. These findings suggest that unfair treatment may encourage a spread of unfairness, and that the anterior insula may be not only engaged in signaling social norm violations, but also recruited in guiding subsequent adaptive behaviors. PMID:25798102

Dietary Management of Hyperthyroidism in a Dog.

PubMed

Looney, Andrea; Wakshlag, Joseph

An 8 yr old female spayed golden retriever presented for a routine exam during which ventral cervical soft tissue masses were identified. History included weight loss, increased activity and appetite, gagging, and occasional diarrhea. Exam findings included a body condition score of 4/9 and palpable ventral cervical nodules. A serum thyroxine (T4) value was 8.0 ug/dL (normal = 0.8-3.5ug/dL). Doppler systolic blood pressure readings ranged from 200-210 mmHg (normal systolic blood pressure <150 mmHg). The diagnosis was hyperthyroidism due to active thyroid masses. Due to financial constraints, the owner elected conservative management. Initial treatment with methimazole resulted in a decreased T4 value of 5.0 ug/dL at approximately 4 mo after initiation of treatment. A commercially available iodine-restricted feline diet was fed and this resulted in further reduction in serum T4 levels, improved sleeping cycles, reduced anxiety, and reduced systolic blood pressure. A temporary suspension of iodine-restricted feline diet for 2 mo resulted in increases in serum T4 concentrations, which, subsequently, decreased with re-introduction of the diet. Roughly 10 mo after initiation of the therapeutic diet and 16 mo after intial diagnosis, the dog remains relatively normal clinically despite active growing cervical masses with T4 concentration of 2.3 ug/dL.

Relationships between ambient geochemistry, watershed land-use and trace metal concentrations in aquatic invertebrates living in stormwater treatment ponds

USGS Publications Warehouse

Karouna-Renier, N.K.; Sparling, D.W.

2001-01-01

Stormwater treatment ponds receive elevated levels of metals from urban runoff, but the effects of these pollutants on organisms residing in the ponds are unknown. We investigated the accumulation of Cu, Zn, and Pb by macroinvertebrates collected from stormwater treatment ponds in Maryland serving commercial, highway, residential and open-space watersheds, and determined whether watershed land-use classification influences metal concentrations in macroinvertebrates, sediments, and water. Three types of invertebrate samples were analyzed for molluscs, odonates, and composite. Zn concentrations in odonates from ponds draining watersheds with commercial development (mean=113.82 ug/g) were significantly higher than concentrations in the other land-use categories. Similarly, Cu levels in odonates from commercial ponds (mean=27.12 ug/g) were significantly higher than from highway (mean=20.23 ug/g) and open space (mean=17.79 ug/g) ponds. However, metal concentrations in sediments and water did not differ significantly among land-uses. The results suggest that despite the high variation in ambient metal concentrations within each land-use category, macroinvertebrates in ponds serving commercial watersheds accumulate higher levels of Cu and Zn. The levels of Cu, Zn, and Pb in invertebrates from all ponds were less than dietary concentrations considered toxic to fish.

Personnel and Vehicle Data Collection at Aberdeen Proving Ground (APG) and its Distribution for Research

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-10-01

28 Magnetometer Applied Physics Model 1540-digital 3-axis fluxgate 5 Amplifiers Alligator Technologies USBPGF-S1 programmable instrumentation...Acoustic, Seismic, magnetic, footstep, vehicle, magnetometer , geophone, unattended ground sensor (UGS) 16. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF: 17. LIMITATION

Effects of Historical Coal Mining and Drainage from Abandoned Mines on Streamflow and Water Quality in Newport and Nanticoke Creeks, Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, 1999-2000

USGS Publications Warehouse

Chaplin, Jeffrey J.; Cravotta,, Charles A.; Weitzel, Jeffrey B.; Klemow, Kenneth M.

2007-01-01

This report characterizes the effects of historical mining and abandoned mine drainage (AMD) on streamflow and water quality and evaluates potential strategies for AMD abatement in the 14-square-mile Newport Creek Basin and 7.6-square-mile Nanticoke Creek Basin. Both basins are mostly within the Northern Anthracite Coal Field and drain to the Susquehanna River in central Luzerne County, Pa. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), in cooperation with the Earth Conservancy, conducted an assessment from April 1999 to September 2000 that included (1) continuous stage measurement at 7 sites; (2) synoptic water-quality and flow sampling at 21 sites on June 2-4, 1999, and at 24 sites on October 7-8, 1999; and (3) periodic measurement of flow and water quality at 26 additional sites not included in the synoptic sampling effort. Stream water and surface runoff from the unmined uplands drain northward to the valley, where most of the water is intercepted and diverted into abandoned underground mines. Water that infiltrates into the mine workings becomes loaded with acidity, metals, and sulfate and later discharges as AMD at topographically low points along lower reaches of Newport Creek, Nanticoke Creek, and their tributaries. Differences among streamflows in unmined and mined areas of the watersheds indicated that (1) intermediate stream reaches within the mined area but upgradient of AMD sites generally were either dry or losing reaches, (2) ground water flowing to AMD sites could cross beneath surface-drainage divides, and (3) AMD discharging to the lower stream reaches restored volumes lost in the upstream reaches. The synoptic data for June and October 1999, along with continuous stage data during the study period, indicated flows during synoptic surveys were comparable to average values. The headwaters upstream of the mined area generally were oxygenated (dissolved oxygen range was 4.7 to 11.0 mg/L [milligrams per liter]), near-neutral (pH range was 5.8 to 7.6), and net alkaline (net alkalinity range was 2.0 to 25.0 mg/L CaCO3), with relatively low concentrations of sulfate (6.40 to 24.0 mg/L) and dissolved metals (less than 500 ug/L [micrograms per liter] of iron, manganese, and aluminum). In contrast, the AMD discharges and downstream waters were characterized by elevated concentrations of sulfate and dissolved metals that exceeded Federal and State regulatory limits. The largest AMD sources were the Susquehanna Number 7 Mine discharge entering Newport Creek near its mouth (flow range was 4.7 to 19 ft3/s [cubic feet per second]), the Truesdale Mine Discharge (Dundee Outfall) entering Nanticoke Creek about 0.5 mile upstream of Loomis Park (flow range was 0.00 to 38 ft3/s), and a mine-pit overflow entering near the midpoint of Newport Creek (flow range was 4.0 to 6.9 ft3/s). The three large discharges were poorly oxygenated (dissolved oxygen concentration range was <0.05 to 6.4 mg/L) and had elevated concentrations of sulfate (range was 710 to 890 mg/L) and low concentrations of dissolved aluminum (less than 25 ug/L), but they had distinctive concentrations of net alkalinity and dissolved iron and manganese. Effluent from the Susquehanna Number 7 Mine was near-neutral (pH range was 5.9 to 6.6) and net alkaline (net alkalinity range was 12.0 to 42.0 mg/L CaCO3) with elevated concentrations of sulfate (718 to 1,170 mg/L), dissolved iron (52,500 to 77,400 ug/L), and manganese (5,200 to 5,300 ug/L). Effluent from the Truesdale Mine also was near-neutral (pH range was 5.9 to 6.3) but had variable net alkalinity (-19.0 to 57.0 mg/L CaCO3) with elevated concentrations of sulfate (571 to 740 mg/L), dissolved iron (30,500 to 43,000 ug/L), and manganese (3,600 to 5,200 ug/L). Effluent from the mine-pit overflow in Newport Creek Basin was acidic (pH range was 4.3 to 5.0; net alkalinity range was -42 to -38 mg/L CaCO3) with elevated concentrations of sulfate (800 to 840 mg/L), iron (13,000 to 16,000 ug/L), and manganese (6,800 to 7,000 ug

Seasonal Variability and Effects of Stormflow on Concentrations of Pesticides and their Degradates in Kisco River and Middle Branch Croton River Surface Water, Croton Reservoir System, New York, May 2000-February 2001

USGS Publications Warehouse

Phillips, Patrick J.; Bode, Robert W.

2004-01-01

Seven herbicides (2,4-D, 2,4-D methyl ester, bromacil, dicamba, diuron, imazaquin, and sulfometuron), four insecticides (carbaryl, diazinon, imidacloprid, and malathion), two fungicides (metalaxyl and myclobutanil), and caffeine (an indicator of wastewater) were detected in at least one sample from the Kisco River at concentrations above 0.1 ug/L (micrograms per liter). Four of these compounds - 2,4-D, 2,4-D methyl ester, dicamba, and metalaxyl - were detected in at least one sample from the Kisco River at a concentration above 1 ug/L. Only three herbicides (2,4-D, imazethapyr, and prometon) and caffeine were detected at concentrations above 0.1 ug/L in one or more of the Middle Branch Croton River samples, and no compounds were detected above 0.4 ug/L in Middle Branch Croton River samples. No samples contained concentrations of pesticides that exceeded human health-based water-quality standards. However, samples from the Kisco River contained four insecticides (carbaryl, chlorpyrifos, diazinon, and malathion) and one herbicide (2,4-D) in concentrations that exceeded water-quality criteria for the protection of aquatic life. Aquatic-life protection criteria were generally exceeded only in stormflow samples collected in June, September, and December 2000. No samples from the Middle Branch Croton River contained target compounds that exceeded water-quality criteria for the protection of aquatic life. Pesticide concentrations were generally higher, and the numbers of compounds generally larger in samples from the Kisco River than in samples from the Middle Branch Croton River, probably because the Kisco River watershed has a greater population density and is more extensively developed. The highest concentrations of most compounds in both streams were detected in stormflow samples collected in June, September, and December 2000. This indicates that stormflow sampling is essential in assessments of pesticide occurrence in streams that drain developed lands. The lowest concentrations of most compounds at both sites were detected in baseflow samples collected from October 2000 through February 2001, although the concentrations of several compounds increased substantially during stormflows at the Kisco River site in November and December, 2000.

Outdoor Air Pollution and COPD-Related Emergency Department Visits, Hospital Admissions, and Mortality: A Meta-Analysis.

PubMed

DeVries, Rebecca; Kriebel, David; Sama, Susan

2017-02-01

A systematic literature review was performed to identify all peer-reviewed literature quantifying the association between short-term exposures of particulate matter <2.5 microns (PM 2.5 ), nitrogen dioxide (NO 2 ), and sulfur dioxide (SO 2 ) and COPD-related emergency department (ED) visits, hospital admissions (HA), and mortality. These results were then pooled for each pollutant through meta-analyses with a random effects model. Subgroup meta-analyses were explored to study the effects of selected lag/averaging times and health outcomes. A total of 37 studies satisfied our inclusion criteria, contributing to a total of approximately 1,115,000 COPD-related acute events (950,000 HAs, 80,000 EDs, and 130,000 deaths) to our meta-estimates. An increase in PM 2.5 of 10 ug/m 3 was associated with a 2.5% (95% CI: 1.6-3.4%) increased risk of COPD-related ED and HA, an increase of 10 ug/m 3 in NO 2 was associated with a 4.2% (2.5-6.0%) increase, and an increase of 10 ug/m 3 in SO 2 was associated with a 2.1% (0.7-3.5%) increase. The strength of these pooled effect estimates, however, varied depending on the selected lag/averaging time between exposure and outcome. Similar pooled effects were estimated for each pollutant and COPD-related mortality. These results suggest an ongoing threat to the health of COPD patients from both outdoor particulates and gaseous pollutants. Ambient outdoor concentrations of PM 2.5 , NO 2 , and SO 2 were significantly and positively associated with both COPD-related morbidity and mortality.

Absorption and biotransformation of polybrominated diphenyl ethers DE-71 and DE-79 in chicken (Gallus gallus), mallard (Anas platyrhynchos), American kestrel (Falco sparverius) and black-crowned night-heron (Nycticorax nycticorax) eggs

USGS Publications Warehouse

McKernan, Moira A.; Rattner, Barnett A.; Hatfield, Jeff S.; Hale, Robert C.; Ottinger, Mary Ann

2010-01-01

We recently reported that air cell administration of penta-brominated diphenyl ether (penta-BDE; DE-71) evokes biochemical and immunologic effects in chicken (Gallus gallus) embryos at very low doses, and impairs pipping (i.e., stage immediately prior to hatching) and hatching success at 1.8 ug g-1 egg (actual dose absorbed) in American kestrels (Falco sparverius). I n the present study, absorption of polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) congeners was measured following air cell administration of a penta-BDE mixture (11.1 ug DE-71 g-1 egg) or an octa-brominated diphenyl ether mixture (octa-BDE; DE-79; 15.4 ug DE-79 g-1 egg). Uptake of PBDE congeners was measured at 24 h post-injection, midway through incubation, and at pipping in chicken, mallard (Anas platyrhynchos), and American kestrel egg contents, and at the end of incubation in black-crowned night-heron (Nycticorax nycticorax) egg contents. Absorption of penta-BDE and octa-BDE from the air cell into egg contents occurred throughout incubation; at pipping, up to 29.6% of penta-BDE was absorbed, but only 1.40-6.48% of octa-BDE was absorbed. Higher brominated congeners appeared to be absorbed more slowly than lower brominated congeners, and uptake rate was inversely proportional to the log Kow of predominant BDE congeners. Six congeners or co-eluting pairs of congeners were detected in penta-BDE-treated eggs that were not found in the dosing solution suggesting debromination in the developing embryo, extraembryonic membranes, and possibly even in the air cell membrane. This study demonstrates the importance of determining the fraction of xenobiotic absorbed into the egg following air cell administration for estimation of the lowest-observed-effect level.

Reference intervals for orotic acid in urine, plasma and dried blood spot using hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry.

PubMed

D'Apolito, Oceania; Garofalo, Daniela; la Marca, Giancarlo; Dello Russo, Antonio; Corso, Gaetano

2012-02-01

Orotic acid (OA), a marker of hereditary orotic aciduria, is usually used for the differential diagnosis of some hyperammonemic inherited defects of urea cycle and of basic amino acid transporters. This study was aimed to establish age related reference intervals of OA in urine, and for the first time in plasma, and dried blood spot (DBS) from 229 apparently healthy subjects aged from three days to 40 years. The quantification of OA was performed by a previously implemented method, using a stable isotope dilution with 1,3-[(15)N(2)]-orotic acid and hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (HILIC-MS/MS). The method has proved to be sensitive and accurate for a quantitative analysis of OA also in DBS and plasma. According to previous studies, urinary OA levels (mmol/mol of creatinine) decrease significantly with age. The upper limits (as 99th %ile) were of 3.44 and 1.30 in groups aged from three days to 1 year (group 1) and from 1 year to 12 years (group 2), respectively; in teenagers (from 13 to 19 years; group 3) and adults (from 20 to 40 years; group 4) urinary levels became more stable and the upper limits were of 0.64 and 1.21, respectively. Furthermore, OA levels in DBS (μM) also resulted significantly higher in subjects of group 1 (upper limit of 0.89) than in subjects of groups 2, 3 and 4 (upper limits of 0.24, 0.21, and 0.29, respectively). OA levels in plasma (μM) were significantly lower in subjects of group 3 (upper limit of 0.30) than in subjects of groups 1, 2, and 4 (upper limits of 0.59, 0.48, and 0.77, respectively). This method was also employed for OA quantification in plasma and DBS of 17 newborns affected by urea cycle defects, resulting sensitive and specific enough to screen these disorders. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

On the possible fault activation induced by UGS in depleted reservoirs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Feronato, Massimiliano; Gambolati, Giuseppe; Janna, Carlo; Teatini, Pietro; Tosattto, Omar

2014-05-01

Underground gas storage (UGS) represents an increasingly used approach to cope with the growing energy demand and occurs in many countries worldwide. Gas is injected in previously depleted deep reservoirs during summer when consumption is limited and removed in cold season mainly for heating. As a major consequence the pore pressure p within a UGS reservoir fluctuates yearly between a maximum close to the value pi prior to the field development and a minimum usually larger than the lowest pressure experienced by the reservoir at the end of its production life. The high frequency pressure fluctuations generally confine the pressure change volume to the reservoir volume without significantly involving the aquifers hydraulically connected to the hydrocarbon field (lateral and/or bottom waterdrive). The risk of UGS-induced seismicity is therefore restricted to those cases where existing faults cross or bound the reservoir. The possible risk of anthropogenic seismicity due to UGS operations is preliminary investigated by an advanced Finite Element (FE) - Interface Element (IE) 3-D elasto-plastic geomechanical model in a representative 1500 m deep reservoir bounded by a regional sealing fault and compartimentalized by an internal non-sealing thrust. Gas storage/production is ongoing with p ranging between pi in October/November and 60%pi in April/May. The yearly pressure fluctuation is assumed to be on the order of 50 bar. The overall geomechanical response of the porous medium has been calibrated by reproducing the vertical and horizontal cyclic displacements measured above the reservoir by advanced persistent scatterer interferometry. The FE-IE model shows that the stress variations remain basically confined within the gas field and negligibly propagate within the caprock and the waterdrive. Based on the Mohr-Coulomb failure criterion, IEs allow for the prediction of the fault activated area A, located at the reservoir depth as expected, and slip displacement d. A number of parametric scenarios are investigated to address the major uncertainties on the geomechanical fault properties, i.e., cohesion c and friction angle φ of the fault materials, and the initial stress regime (passive or compressive basin). The magnitude M of potential seismic events induced by the fault reactivation is evaluated by an empirical relation derived from seismological theories. M turns out to be correlated to the activated volume A × d and the shear modulus G of the host rock. With G = 3.9 × 104 bar, as provided by the calibration of the geomechanical model, the results point out that M may peak up to around 1 in the most conservative scenario, i.e. c = 0 bar, φ = 30°, entirely instantaneous slip and a passive stress basin. With c = 10 bar, a plausible value for the investigated reservoir, the fault does not activate. Under the above conditions fault activation by UGS does not appear to be a matter of concern.

Occurrence of the gasoline oxygenate MTBE and BTEX compounds in urban stormwater in the United States, 1991-95

USGS Publications Warehouse

Delzer, Gregory C.; Zogorski, John S.; Lopes, T.J.; Bosshart, R.L.

1996-01-01

Methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) is a gasoline oxygenate. Oxygenates such as MTBE, when added to gasoline, increase the gasoline's oxygen level and decrease vehicular carbon monoxide emissions and ozone levels in the atmosphere. MTBE disperses rapidly in water, was the second most frequently detected volatile organic compound (VOC) in a study of shallow urban ground water, and is less biodegradable than common gasoline compounds, such as benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and total xylene (BTEX). Urban stormwater is a possible source of MTBE found in shallow ground water. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) sampled stormwater in 16 cities and metropolitan areas that are required to obtain permits to discharge stormwater from their municipal storm-sewer system into surface water. Concentrations of 62 VOCs, including MTBE and BTEX compounds, were measured in 592 stormwater samples collected in these cities and metropolitan areas from 1991 through 1995. Concentration data for MTBE and BTEX compounds in stormwater were compiled and analyzed, and the findings are summarized in this report. This effort was part of an interagency assessment of the scientific basis and effectiveness of the Nation's oxygenated fuel program and was coordinated by the Office of Science and Technology Policy, Executive Office of the President. MTBE was the seventh most frequently detected VOC in urban stormwater, following toluene, total xylene, chloroform, total trimethylbenzene, tetrachloroethene, and naphthalene. MTBE was detected in 6.9 percentmg (41 of 592) of stormwater samples collected. When detected, concentrations of MTBE ranged from 0.2 to 8.7 micrograms per liter (ug/L), with a median of 1.5 ug/L. All detections of MTBE were less than the lower limit of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) draft lifetime health advisory (20 ug/L) for drinking water. Eighty- three percent of all detections of MTBE in stormwater were in samples collected during the October through March season of each year (1991- 95), which corresponds with the expected seasonal use of oxygenated gasoline in areas where carbon monoxide exceeds established air-quality standards. The median concentration of MTBE and benzene for all samples was statistically different and higher in samples collected during the October through March season than samples collected during the April through September season. Sixty-six percent of all MTBE detections occurred with BTEX compounds, and a proportionate increase in concentrations was found when these compounds occurred together. The proportionate increase could indicate a common source of MTBE and BTEX for those samples. Toluene and total xylene were the most frequently detected BTEX compounds and the most frequently detected VOCs in these investigations. Detected concentrations of toluene and total xylene ranged from 0.2 to 6.6 ug/L and 0.2 to 15 ug/L with median concentrations of 0.3 and 0.4 ug/L, respectively.

Ground-Water Quality in Western New York, 2006

USGS Publications Warehouse

Eckhardt, David A.V.; Reddy, James E.; Tamulonis, Kathryn L.

2008-01-01

Water samples were collected from 7 production wells and 26 private residential wells in western New York from August through December 2006 and analyzed to characterize the chemical quality of ground water. Wells at 15 of the sites were screened in sand and gravel aquifers, and 18 were finished in bedrock aquifers. The wells were selected to represent areas of greatest ground-water use and to provide a geographical sampling from the 5,340-square-mile study area. Samples were analyzed for 5 physical properties and 219 constituents that included nutrients, major inorganic ions, trace elements, radionuclides, pesticides, volatile organic compounds (VOC), phenolic compounds, organic carbon, and bacteria. Results indicate that ground water used for drinking supply is generally of acceptable quality, although concentrations of some constituents or bacteria exceeded at least one drinking-water standard at 27 of the 33 wells. The cations that were detected in the highest concentrations were calcium, magnesium, and sodium; anions that were detected in the highest concentrations were bicarbonate, chloride, and sulfate. The predominant nutrients were nitrate and ammonia; nitrate concentrations were higher in samples from sand and gravel aquifers than in samples from bedrock. The trace elements barium, boron, copper, lithium, nickel, and strontium were detected in every sample; the trace elements with the highest concentrations were barium, boron, iron, lithium, manganese, and strontium. Eighteen pesticides, including 9 pesticide degradates, were detected in water from 14 of the 33 wells, but none of the concentrations exceeded State or Federal Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs). Fourteen volatile organic compounds were detected in water from 12 of the 33 wells, but none of the concentrations exceeded MCLs. Eight chemical analytes and three types of bacteria were detected in concentrations that exceeded Federal and State drinking-water standards, which are typically identical. Sulfate concentrations exceeded the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) Secondary Maximum Contaminant Level (SMCL) of 250 milligrams per liter (mg/L) in three samples, and chloride concentrations exceeded the SMCL of 250 mg/L in two samples. Sodium concentrations exceeded the USEPA Drinking Water Health Advisory of 60 mg/L in nine samples. Iron concentrations exceeded the SMCL of 300 ug/L (micrograms per liter) in 14 filtered samples, and manganese exceeded the USEPA SMCL of 50 ug/L in 15 filtered samples, as well as the New York State MCL of 300 ug/L in 1 filtered sample. Arsenic exceeded the USEPA MCL of 10 ug/L in two samples, aluminum exceeded the SMCL for aluminum of 50 ug/L in one sample, and lead exceeded the MCL of 15 ug/L in one sample. Radon-222 exceeded the proposed USEPA MCL of 300 picocuries per liter in 24 samples. Any detection of coliform bacteria indicates a violation of New York State health regulations; total coliform was detected in 12 samples, and Escherichia coli was detected in 2 samples. The plate counts for heterotrophic bacteria exceeded the MCL (500 colony-forming units per milliliter) in four samples.

[Experimental study on protective effects of HupA in the treatment of isocarbophos poisoning].

PubMed

Liu, Li; Xie, Guang-yun; Wang, Jian; Sun, Jin-xiu

2006-06-01

To investigate the therapeutic and prophylactic efficiency of HupA in mice with acute isocarbophos poisoning, and the protective effects of the HupA on AChE inhibited by isocarbophos. Mice were randomizedly divided into the non-treatment group, the atropine control group, the HupA treatment group and the atropine and HupA combined treatment group. Toxic signs and survival rates were observed and compared among these groups. The AChE activity was monitored in the whole blood, the red cells and brain tissue exposed to isocarbophos in the either treated with HupA or non-treated groups. In HupA treatment group compared with the non-treatment group, toxic signs were significantly decreased and the survival rate was increased. The therapeutic efficiency in the atropine and HupA combined treatment group was better than other groups. After isocarbophos was administered, the AChE activity in the HupA treatment group and the non-treatment group was decreased. However, the AChE activity in the whole blood (1.096 +/- 0.111), (1.262 +/- 0.146), (1.181 +/- 0.353) U/ml, the red cells (0.798 +/- 0.063), (1.000 +/- 0.176), (0.837 +/- 0.331) and the brain tissue (13.739 +/- 2.970), (18.507 +/- 3.466), (10.764 +/- 2.212) U/g in HupA treatment group 0.5, 1 and 2 hours after isocarbophos was administered was significantly higher than those in the non-treatment group (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). HupA has therapeutic effect on mice with acute isocarbophos poisoning. The protective effect of HupA on blood and brain AChE inhibited by isocarbophos may be one of the mechanisms of the therapeutic effect of HupA in acute Isocarbophos poisoning.

National Prevalence and Exposure Risk for Cockroach Allergen in U.S. Households

PubMed Central

Cohn, Richard D.; Arbes, Samuel J.; Jaramillo, Renee; Reid, Laura H.; Zeldin, Darryl C.

2006-01-01

We characterized the prevalence of cockroach allergen exposure in a nationally representative sample of U.S. homes and assessed risk factors for elevated concentrations. Design We used data from the National Survey of Lead and Allergens in Housing, a population-based cross-sectional survey. Participants Participants were residents of 831 U.S. homes in the survey. Evaluations/Measurements We analyzed allergen, questionnaire, and observational data of 831 U.S. homes. Results Cockroach allergen (Bla g 1) concentrations exceed 2.0 U/g, a level associated with allergic sensitization, in 11% of U.S. living room floors and 13% of kitchen floors. Concentrations exceed 8.0 U/g, a level associated with asthma morbidity, in 3% of living room floors and 10% of kitchen floors. Elevated concentrations were observed in high-rise apartments, urban settings, pre-1940 constructions, and households with incomes < $20,000. Odds of having concentrations > 8.0 U/g were greatest when roach problems were reported or observed and increased with the number of cockroaches observed and with indications of recent cockroach activity. Conclusions Household cockroach allergen exposure is characterized in a nationally representative context. The allergen is prevalent in many settings, at levels that may contribute to allergic sensitization and asthma morbidity. Relevance to Clinical or Professional Practice Likelihood of exposure can be assessed by consideration of demographic and household determinants. PMID:16581539

Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency in Greek newborns: the Mediterranean C563T mutation screening.

PubMed

Molou, Elina; Schulpis, Kleopatra H; Thodi, Georgia; Georgiou, Vassiliki; Dotsikas, Yannis; Papadopoulos, Konstantinos; Biti, Sofia; Loukas, Yannis L

2014-04-01

Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD) gene is located at the X-chromosome at Xq28 and the disease is recessively inherited predominantly in males. More than 400 variants have been proposed based on clinical and enzymatic studies. The aim of the current study was to identify C563T mutation in G6PD-deficient newborns and to correlate the enzyme residual activity with the presence of the mutation. Some 1189 full-term neonates aged 3-5 days old were tested for G6PD activity in dried blood spots from Guthrie cards using a commercial kit. DNA extraction from Guthrie cards and mutation identification among the deficient samples were performed with current techniques. A total of 92 (7.7%) newborns were G6PD-deficient. In 46 (50%), the mutation C563T was identified. The residual activity in C563T hemizygote males (n = 28) was statistically significantly lower (1.23 ± 0.93 U/g Hb) than that in non-C563T G6PD-deficient males (n = 25) (4.01 ± 1.20 U/g Hb, p < 0.0001) and in controls (13.6 ± 2.9 U/g Hb, p < 0.0001). In C563T heterozygote females, the estimated enzyme activity was lower than that determined in non-C563T females. Male C563T hemizygotes suffer from G6PD deficiency and severe neonatal jaundice. G6PD activity showed statistically significant correlation with total bilirubin blood levels.

Advanced Development of Leishmania Topical Skin Test Antigen

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-09-28

can cause sensitization manifest by the conversion of a negative to positive delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) skin test. This was observed on the...third skin test with 30 ug and 50 ug doses of the crude lysate administered intradermally at monthly intervals. Fractionation of the lysate...identified dominant proteins at 8 kDa, 20 kDa, and 56-58 kDa. Skin tests in L. tropica sensitized guinea pigs with each of these fractions revealed

Prior esophagogastroduodenoscopy does not affect the cecal intubation time at bidirectional endoscopies

PubMed Central

Öner, Osman Zekai; Demirci, Rojbin Karakoyun; Gündüz, Umut Rıza; Aslaner, Arif; Koç, Ümit; Bülbüller, Nurullah

2013-01-01

Bidirectional endoscopy (BE) is often used to assess patients for the reason of anemia or to screen asymptomatic population for malignancy. Limited clinical data favors to perform first the upper gastrointestinal system endoscopy, but its effect to the duration of colonoscopy is yet to be determined. The aim of this retrospective study is to evaluate the effect of upper gastrointestinal system endoscopy on the time to achieve cecal intubation during colonoscopy in patients undergoing BE. Patients of four endoscopists at similar experience levels were retrospectively identified and categorized into the upper gastrointestinal system endoscopy before colonoscopy group (group 1) or the colonoscopy only group (group 2). The demographics, clinical data and the time to achieve cecal intubation for each patient were analyzed. The mean time to achieve cecal intubation in the first group that included 319 cases was 8.4 ± 0.93 minutes and the mean time in the second group that included 1672 cases was 8.56 ± 1.16 minutes. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups. There was also no significant difference between the Group 1 and Group 2 when compared according to which of the four endoscopists performed the procedures. Performing the upper gastrointestinal system endoscopy prior to colonoscopy did not affect the time to achieve cecal intubation. Considering that performing the upper gastrointestinal system endoscopy prior to the colonoscopy is more advantageous in terms of patient comfort and analgesic requirement, beginning to BE with it seems more favorable. PMID:23936601

The undermining effect of facial attractiveness on brain responses to fairness in the Ultimatum Game: an ERP study

PubMed Central

Ma, Qingguo; Hu, Yue; Jiang, Shushu; Meng, Liang

2015-01-01

To investigate the time course of the neural processing of facial attractiveness and its influence on fairness consideration during social interactions, event-related potentials (ERP) were recorded from 21 male subjects performing a two-person Ultimatum Game (UG). During this bargaining game, the male subjects played responders who decided whether to accept offers from female proposers, whose facial images (grouped as “attractive” and “unattractive”) were presented prior to the offer presentation. The behavioral data demonstrated that the acceptance ratio increased with the fairness level of the offers and, more importantly, the subjects were more likely to accept unfair offers when presented with the attractive-face condition compared with the unattractive-face condition. The reaction times (RTs) for five offers (1:9, 2:8, 3:7, 4:6, and 5:5) in the unattractive-face condition were not significantly different. In contrast, the subjects reacted slower to the attractive proposers' unfair offers and quicker to fair offers. The ERP analysis of the face presentation demonstrated a decreased early negativity (N2) and enhanced late positive potentials (LPPs) elicited by the attractive faces compared with the unattractive faces. In addition, the feedback-related negativity (FRN) in response to an offer presentation was not significantly different for the unfair (1:9 and 2:8) and fair (4:6 and 5:5) offers in the attractive-face condition. However, the unfair offers generated larger FRNs compared with the fair offers in the unattractive-face condition (consistent with prior studies). A similar effect was identified for P300. The present study demonstrated an undermining effect of proposer facial attractiveness on responder consideration of offer fairness during the UG. PMID:25805967

BIOAVAILABILITY AND TROPHIC TRANSFER OF HUMIC-BOUND COPPER FROM BACTERIA TO ZOOPLANKTON

EPA Science Inventory

The effect of humic acid (HA) on uptake and transfer of Cu by selected marine organisms from the microbial loop was determined. Bacteria grown to stationary phase in cultures with and without 15 ug Cu l -1 and with and without 10 mg Suwannee River Humic Acid (SRHA) l -1 were fed ...

Anisotropic Diffusion Despeckling for High Resolution SAR Images

DTIC Science & Technology

2004-11-01

Chiang Mai , Thailand 323 Data Processing B-4.2 Anisotropic Diffusion Despeckling for High...18 324 25th ACRS 2004 Chiang Mai , Thailand B-4.2 Data Processing 2 NONLINEAR DIFFUSION FILTERING 2.1...edge-enhancing diffusion model is adopted. |)(|1 σϕ ug ∇= 2.02 =ϕ (4) 25th ACRS 2004 Chiang Mai , Thailand 325 Data

Metabolomic effects in HepG2 cells exposed to four TiO2 amd two CeO2 naomaterials

EPA Science Inventory

Abstract It is difficult to evaluate nanomaterials potential toxicity and to make science-based societal choices. To better assess potential hepatotoxicity issues, human liver HepG2 cells were exposed to four Ti02 and two Ce02 nanomaterials at 30 ug m1-1 for t...

Short Communication: Evaluation of antimicrobial activities of Harmine, Harmaline, Nicotine and their complexes.

PubMed

Salman, Saad; Idrees, Fariha; Pervaiz, Sadia; Shah, Fahad Hassan; Badshah, Sareer; Abdullah; Usman, Mohammad; Halimi, Sm Ashhad; Idrees, Jawaria

2016-07-01

Harmine, Harmaline, Nicotine and its various complexes synthesized have been characterized by physical, spectral and analytical methods and curtained for in-vitro antimicrobial activity against different bacterial and fungal species at two different concentrations i.e.100μ/100µl and 200μ/100µl dose level respectively. Analysis showed that Nicotine, Zinc-Nico, Cd-Nico, Hg-Nico, Ni-Nico, Cu-Nico, Co-Nico, Harmine, and Harmaline having conc. of 100ug/ 100ul had antibacterial activity on zero, 5, 4, 10, zero, 5, 7, zero, zero strain of bacteria having an average of zero (SD=0.0000), 15.2000 (SD=1.30384), 18.2500 (SD=3.30404), 20.2000 (SD=1.39841), zero (SD=0.0000), 14.6000 (SD=0.89443), 15.8571 (SD=1.34519), zero (SD=0.0000), zero (SD=0.0000) respectively. Zinc (II) chloride, Cadmium (II) Iodide, Mercury (II) chloride, Nickel (II) chloride, Copper (II) chloride, Cobalt (II) chloride, Mercury (II) chloride, Mercury (II) harmine, Mercury (II) harmaline at 100ug/100ul is valid for 7, 8, 9, 2, 7, 8, 9, 10, 8 strains of bacteria with an average of 7.1429 (SD=1.06904), 10.0000 (SD=5.01427), 14.8889 (SD=6.00925), 6.0000 (SD=0.0000), 8.5714 (SD=4.27618), 8.2500 (SD=0.88641), 14.8889 (SD=6.00925), 18.6000 (SD=2.45855), 18.5000 (SD=1.85164) respectively. The above given compounds at the conc. of 200 μ/100ul is valid for 10, 9, 10, 8, 8, 10, 10, 10, 10 strains of bacteria with an average of 8.1 (SD=1.66333), 11.7778 (SD=5.28625), 16.1000 (SD=6.36745), 6.5000 (SD=0.92582), 9.7500 (SD=4.43203), 9.9000 (SD=2.76687), 16.1000 (SD=6.36745), 22.0000 (SD=2.44949), 20.4000 (SD=2.75681) respectively. The above given compounds at conc. of 200 μ/100ul showed antibacterial action on 3, 8, 8, 10, 3, 9, 8, zero, 3 strains of bacteria with an average of 14(SD=0.000), 16.8750 (SD=1.35620), 18.2500 (SD=3.45378), 22.7000 (SD=1.82878), 14.3333 (SD=0.57735), 16.7778 (SD=1.71594), zero (SD=0.000), 12.0000 (SD=1.00000) respectively. Hence according to the average value of the zone of inhibition, maximum antibacterial activity at 100-200ug/100ul is of Hg-Nico and Mercury salt; Mercury (II) harmine having an average of 20.2000 (SD=1.39841)-22.7000 (SD=1.82878) and 18.6000 (SD=2.45855)-22.0000 (SD=2.44949). Minimum antibacterial activity at 100-200ug/100ul is Nicotine100, Nicotine-Nico100, Harmine 100,Harmaline 100, Harmine 200 having zero average (SD=0.000).

VARIATIONS IN LARVAL GROWTH AND METABOLISM OF AN ESTUARINE SHRIMP DURING TOXICOSIS BY AN INSECT GROWTH REGULATOR

EPA Science Inventory

Exposure of the estuarine shrimp, Ptiaemonetes pugio, to a juvenile hormone analogue (> 3 ug methoprene-1) throughout larval development inhibited successful completion of metamorphosis. Methoprene exposure retarded growth in early larval stages and postlarvae enhanced growth in ...

CRE Activation in Antiestrogen Resistance

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-05-01

differences in transfection efficiency, 0.1 ug of a plasmid containing the Renilla luciferase gene was also cotransfected into the cells. Both plasmid DNAs...containing the Renilla luciferase gene was also cotransfected into the cells. Both plasmid DNAs were added to a mix of Fugene 6 (Roche) and serum free

Culture Systems for Regenerative Kidney Therapy

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-09-01

optimized small molecule inhibitor cocktail supports long-term maintenance of human embryonic stem cells. Nature communications 2, 167. Venkataraman , G...et al., 2011a) Heparin 1ug/ml FGF signaling activity ( Venkataraman et al., 1996) BMP4 and 7 30ng/ml each proliferation (Blank et al., 2009) LDN

Installation Restoration Program for Richards-Gebaur AFB. Phase 2. Field Evaluation

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-12-01

of the Phase I--Records Search. "ýThe specific task was to determine whether environmental contamination of groundwater or surface water had resulted...concentrations (4 and 5 ug/L, respectively) which exceeded the Missouri Water Quality Standards for groundwater (I ug/L). A limited followup study was...contamination of groundwater and surface water had resulted from waste handling and disposal at two ’and- fills on Richards-Gebaur Air Force Base (AFB

Tissue-specific expression of the gene coding for human Clara cell 10-kD protein, a phospholipase A2-inhibitory protein.

PubMed Central

Peri, A; Cordella-Miele, E; Miele, L; Mukherjee, A B

1993-01-01

Clara cell 10-kD protein (cc10kD), a secretory phospholipase A2 inhibitor, is suggested to be the human counterpart of rabbit uteroglobin (UG). Because cc10kD is expressed constitutively at a very high level in the human respiratory epithelium, the 5' region of its gene may be useful in achieving organ-specific expression of recombinant DNA in gene therapy of diseases such as cystic fibrosis. However, it is important to establish the tissue-specific expression of this gene before designing gene transfer experiments. Since the UG gene in the rabbit is expressed in many other organs besides the lung and the endometrium, we investigated the organ and tissue specificity of human cc10kD gene expression using polymerase chain reaction, nucleotide sequence analysis, immunofluorescence, and Northern blotting. Our results indicate that, in addition to the lung, cc10kD is expressed in several nonrespiratory organs, with a distribution pattern very similar, if not identical, to that of UG in the rabbit. These results underscore the necessity for more detailed analyses of the 5' region of the human cc10kD gene before its usefulness in gene therapy could be fully assessed. These data also suggest that cc10kD and UG may have similar physiological function(s). Images PMID:8227325

A High Level of Intestinal Alkaline Phosphatase Is Protective Against Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Irrespective of Obesity.

PubMed

Malo, Madhu S

2015-12-01

Mice deficient in intestinal alkaline phosphatase (IAP) develop type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We hypothesized that a high level of IAP might be protective against T2DM in humans. We determined IAP levels in the stools of 202 diabetic patients and 445 healthy non-diabetic control people. We found that compared to controls, T2DM patients have approx. 50% less IAP (mean +/- SEM: 67.4 +/- 3.2 vs 35.3 +/- 2.5 U/g stool, respectively; p < 0.000001) indicating a protective role of IAP against T2DM. Multiple logistic regression analyses showed an independent association between the IAP level and diabetes status. With each 25 U/g decrease in stool IAP, there is a 35% increased risk of diabetes. The study revealed that obese people with high IAP (approx. 65 U/g stool) do not develop T2DM. Approx. 65% of the healthy population have < 65.0 U/g stool IAP, and predictably, these people might have 'the incipient metabolic syndrome', including 'incipient diabetes', and might develop T2DM and other metabolic disorders in the near future. In conclusion, high IAP levels appear to be protective against diabetes irrespective of obesity, and a 'temporal IAP profile' might be a valuable tool for predicting 'the incipient metabolic syndrome', including 'incipient diabetes'.

Dysfunctional elimination symptoms in childhood and adulthood.

PubMed

Bower, W F; Yip, S K; Yeung, C K

2005-10-01

The dysfunctional elimination syndrome (DES) is rare in adulthood. We evaluate the natural history of DES to identify aspects of the disorder that may be carried into adulthood. A 2-part questionnaire was devised and self-administered to 191 consecutive women attending a urogynecological clinic (UG) and to 251 normal women. The first section asked for recall of childhood symptoms known to be associated with DES, while the lat-ter section explored current bladder and bowel problems. Data sets from the normal cohort (55) reporting current bladder problems were excluded. Descriptive statistics, chi-square and Mann-Whitney-U tests were used to compare variables. UG patients had significantly higher childhood DES scores than normal women. Overall 41.7% of UG patients could be labeled as having dysfunctional elimination as an adult. Symptoms reported significantly more often in childhood by UG patients than by control women were frequent urinary tract infection, vesicoureteral reflux, frequency, urge incontinence, slow and intermittent urine flow, small volume high urge voids, hospitalization for constipation, frequent fecal soiling and nocturnal enuresis. Higher DES scores correlated significantly with current adult urgency, urge leak, stress incontinence, incomplete emptying, post-void leak, hesitancy, nocturia and nocturnal enuresis. Constipation and fecal incontinence in adulthood also showed a significant association with high DES scores. Logistic regression revealed childhood urgency to be associated with adult DES. Childhood lower urinary tract dysfunction may have a negative impact on bladder and bowel function later life.

Creation of a magnetic barrier at a noble q close to physical midpoint between two resonant surfaces in the ASDEX UG tokamak

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vazquez, Justin; Ali, Halima; Punjabi, Alkesh

2009-11-01

Ciraolo, Vittot and Chandre method of building invariant manifolds inside chaos in Hamiltonian systems [Ali H. and Punjabi A, Plasma Phys. Control. Fusion, 49, 1565--1582 (2007)] is used in the ASDEX UG tokamak. In this method, a second order perturbation is added to the perturbed Hamiltonian [op cit]. It creates an invariant torus inside the chaos, and reduces the plasma transport. The perturbation that is added to the equilibrium Hamiltonian is at least an order of magnitude smaller than the perturbation that causes chaos. This additional term has a finite, limited number of Fourier modes. Resonant magnetic perturbations (m,n) = (3,2)+(4,3) are added to the field line Hamiltonian for the ASDEX UG. An area-preserving map for the field line trajectories in the ASDEX UG is used. The common amplitude δ of these modes that gives complete chaos between the resonant surfaces ψ43 and ψ32 is determined. A magnetic barrier is built at a surface with noble q that is very nearly equals to the q at the physical midpoint between the two resonant surfaces. The maximum amplitude of magnetic perturbation for which this barrier can be sustained is determined. This work is supported by US Department of Energy grants DE-FG02-07ER54937, DE-FG02-01ER54624 and DE-FG02-04ER54793.

Terra Harvest software architecture

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Humeniuk, Dave; Klawon, Kevin

2012-06-01

Under the Terra Harvest Program, the DIA has the objective of developing a universal Controller for the Unattended Ground Sensor (UGS) community. The mission is to define, implement, and thoroughly document an open architecture that universally supports UGS missions, integrating disparate systems, peripherals, etc. The Controller's inherent interoperability with numerous systems enables the integration of both legacy and future UGS System (UGSS) components, while the design's open architecture supports rapid third-party development to ensure operational readiness. The successful accomplishment of these objectives by the program's Phase 3b contractors is demonstrated via integration of the companies' respective plug-'n'-play contributions that include controllers, various peripherals, such as sensors, cameras, etc., and their associated software drivers. In order to independently validate the Terra Harvest architecture, L-3 Nova Engineering, along with its partner, the University of Dayton Research Institute, is developing the Terra Harvest Open Source Environment (THOSE), a Java Virtual Machine (JVM) running on an embedded Linux Operating System. The Use Cases on which the software is developed support the full range of UGS operational scenarios such as remote sensor triggering, image capture, and data exfiltration. The Team is additionally developing an ARM microprocessor-based evaluation platform that is both energy-efficient and operationally flexible. The paper describes the overall THOSE architecture, as well as the design decisions for some of the key software components. Development process for THOSE is discussed as well.

Comparison of caudal ropivacaine-morphine and paravertebral catheter for major upper abdominal surgery in infants.

PubMed

Sato, Makoto; Iida, Takafumi; Kikuchi, Chika; Sasakawa, Tomoki; Kunisawa, Takayuki

2017-05-01

The caudal epidural block is one of the most commonly used regional anesthetic techniques in children. Administration of morphine via caudal injection enables analgesia, even for upper abdominal surgery. The thoracic paravertebral block has also been successfully used to treat perioperative pain during upper abdominal procedures in pediatric patients. In the current study, we compared the two regional techniques for upper abdominal surgery in infants to determine whether one of them was preferable to the other. Consecutive patients under 12 months of age who underwent upper abdominal surgery were retrospectively divided according to the chosen postoperative analgesia: Group C, caudal ropivacaine-morphine; Group P, paravertebral catheter. We analyzed the following outcomes: requirement for additional analgesics, pain scores, need for mechanical ventilation and oxygen dosage, postoperative blood pressure and heart rate, time to pass first stool, time until first full meal, and complications. Twenty-one consecutive patients were included: 10 in Group C and 11 in Group P. Median age at surgery was 80 (47.5-270.0) and 84.5 (34.3-287.5) days, respectively. No difference was found between the two groups in requirement for additional analgesics at 24 h after surgery (median 1 in Group C vs 1 in Group P, P = 0.288, 95% CI: -2 to 1). BOPS pain scores were only lower in Group P when compared to Group C at 24 h after surgery (median 1 vs 2, P = 0.041, 95% CI: -2 to 0). None of the patients had perioperative complications. In this small series, there was no significant difference between caudal ropivacaine-morphine and paravertebral catheter for postoperative care in infants undergoing upper abdominal surgery. Further prospective studies are needed to compare the efficacy and incidence of complications of caudal block and paravertebral catheter for postoperative analgesia. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Surviving Sepsis Campaign: international guidelines for management of severe sepsis and septic shock, 2012.

PubMed

Dellinger, R P; Levy, Mitchell M; Rhodes, Andrew; Annane, Djillali; Gerlach, Herwig; Opal, Steven M; Sevransky, Jonathan E; Sprung, Charles L; Douglas, Ivor S; Jaeschke, Roman; Osborn, Tiffany M; Nunnally, Mark E; Townsend, Sean R; Reinhart, Konrad; Kleinpell, Ruth M; Angus, Derek C; Deutschman, Clifford S; Machado, Flavia R; Rubenfeld, Gordon D; Webb, Steven; Beale, Richard J; Vincent, Jean-Louis; Moreno, Rui

2013-02-01

To provide an update to the "Surviving Sepsis Campaign Guidelines for Management of Severe Sepsis and Septic Shock," last published in 2008. A consensus committee of 68 international experts representing 30 international organizations was convened. Nominal groups were assembled at key international meetings (for those committee members attending the conference). A formal conflict of interest policy was developed at the onset of the process and enforced throughout. The entire guidelines process was conducted independent of any industry funding. A stand-alone meeting was held for all subgroup heads, co- and vice-chairs, and selected individuals. Teleconferences and electronic-based discussion among subgroups and among the entire committee served as an integral part of the development. The authors were advised to follow the principles of the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system to guide assessment of quality of evidence from high (A) to very low (D) and to determine the strength of recommendations as strong (1) or weak (2). The potential drawbacks of making strong recommendations in the presence of low-quality evidence were emphasized. Recommendations were classified into three groups: (1) those directly targeting severe sepsis; (2) those targeting general care of the critically ill patient and considered high priority in severe sepsis; and (3) pediatric considerations. Key recommendations and suggestions, listed by category, include: early quantitative resuscitation of the septic patient during the first 6 h after recognition (1C); blood cultures before antibiotic therapy (1C); imaging studies performed promptly to confirm a potential source of infection (UG); administration of broad-spectrum antimicrobials therapy within 1 h of the recognition of septic shock (1B) and severe sepsis without septic shock (1C) as the goal of therapy; reassessment of antimicrobial therapy daily for de-escalation, when appropriate (1B); infection source control with attention to the balance of risks and benefits of the chosen method within 12 h of diagnosis (1C); initial fluid resuscitation with crystalloid (1B) and consideration of the addition of albumin in patients who continue to require substantial amounts of crystalloid to maintain adequate mean arterial pressure (2C) and the avoidance of hetastarch formulations (1B); initial fluid challenge in patients with sepsis-induced tissue hypoperfusion and suspicion of hypovolemia to achieve a minimum of 30 mL/kg of crystalloids (more rapid administration and greater amounts of fluid may be needed in some patients (1C); fluid challenge technique continued as long as hemodynamic improvement is based on either dynamic or static variables (UG); norepinephrine as the first-choice vasopressor to maintain mean arterial pressure ≥65 mmHg (1B); epinephrine when an additional agent is needed to maintain adequate blood pressure (2B); vasopressin (0.03 U/min) can be added to norepinephrine to either raise mean arterial pressure to target or to decrease norepinephrine dose but should not be used as the initial vasopressor (UG); dopamine is not recommended except in highly selected circumstances (2C); dobutamine infusion administered or added to vasopressor in the presence of (a) myocardial dysfunction as suggested by elevated cardiac filling pressures and low cardiac output, or (b) ongoing signs of hypoperfusion despite achieving adequate intravascular volume and adequate mean arterial pressure (1C); avoiding use of intravenous hydrocortisone in adult septic shock patients if adequate fluid resuscitation and vasopressor therapy are able to restore hemodynamic stability (2C); hemoglobin target of 7-9 g/dL in the absence of tissue hypoperfusion, ischemic coronary artery disease, or acute hemorrhage (1B); low tidal volume (1A) and limitation of inspiratory plateau pressure (1B) for acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS); application of at least a minimal amount of positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) in ARDS (1B); higher rather than lower level of PEEP for patients with sepsis-induced moderate or severe ARDS (2C); recruitment maneuvers in sepsis patients with severe refractory hypoxemia due to ARDS (2C); prone positioning in sepsis-induced ARDS patients with a PaO (2)/FiO (2) ratio of ≤100 mm Hg in facilities that have experience with such practices (2C); head-of-bed elevation in mechanically ventilated patients unless contraindicated (1B); a conservative fluid strategy for patients with established ARDS who do not have evidence of tissue hypoperfusion (1C); protocols for weaning and sedation (1A); minimizing use of either intermittent bolus sedation or continuous infusion sedation targeting specific titration endpoints (1B); avoidance of neuromuscular blockers if possible in the septic patient without ARDS (1C); a short course of neuromuscular blocker (no longer than 48 h) for patients with early ARDS and a PaO (2)/FI O (2) <150 mm Hg (2C); a protocolized approach to blood glucose management commencing insulin dosing when two consecutive blood glucose levels are >180 mg/dL, targeting an upper blood glucose ≤180 mg/dL (1A); equivalency of continuous veno-venous hemofiltration or intermittent hemodialysis (2B); prophylaxis for deep vein thrombosis (1B); use of stress ulcer prophylaxis to prevent upper gastrointestinal bleeding in patients with bleeding risk factors (1B); oral or enteral (if necessary) feedings, as tolerated, rather than either complete fasting or provision of only intravenous glucose within the first 48 h after a diagnosis of severe sepsis/septic shock (2C); and addressing goals of care, including treatment plans and end-of-life planning (as appropriate) (1B), as early as feasible, but within 72 h of intensive care unit admission (2C). Recommendations specific to pediatric severe sepsis include: therapy with face mask oxygen, high flow nasal cannula oxygen, or nasopharyngeal continuous PEEP in the presence of respiratory distress and hypoxemia (2C), use of physical examination therapeutic endpoints such as capillary refill (2C); for septic shock associated with hypovolemia, the use of crystalloids or albumin to deliver a bolus of 20 mL/kg of crystalloids (or albumin equivalent) over 5-10 min (2C); more common use of inotropes and vasodilators for low cardiac output septic shock associated with elevated systemic vascular resistance (2C); and use of hydrocortisone only in children with suspected or proven "absolute"' adrenal insufficiency (2C). Strong agreement existed among a large cohort of international experts regarding many level 1 recommendations for the best care of patients with severe sepsis. Although a significant number of aspects of care have relatively weak support, evidence-based recommendations regarding the acute management of sepsis and septic shock are the foundation of improved outcomes for this important group of critically ill patients.

Ground-water-quality appraisal of sand-plain aquifers in Hubbard, Morrison, Otter Tail, and Wadena Counties, Minnesota

USGS Publications Warehouse

Myette, C.F.

1984-01-01

Site-specific investigations at the Staples Irrigation Center near Staples, Minnesota, indicate that, in addition to seasonal variation, nitrite plus nitrate nitrogen and chloride concentrations decreased with depth while iron concentrations increased. Although no direct quantifiable relationship between concentration and depth was found, mean nitrite plus nitrate nitrogen and chloride concentrations were both 15 milligrams per liter near the top of the aquifer and were 0.1 and 3.5 milligrams per liter, respectively, near the bottom; mean concentrations of dissolved iron were 460 ug/L near the top of the aquifer and 3840 ug/L near the bottom. Data show that the stratification with depth of nitrite plus nitrate nitrogen, chloride, and iron exists at least several hundred feet from the source area throughout most of the year. Chemical stratification appears to be greatest during periods of little recharge.

Exposure to Ergot Alkaloids During Gestation Reduces Fetal Growth in Sheep

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Duckett, Susan; Pratt, Scott; Andrae, John

2014-08-01

Tall fescue [Lolium arundinaceum (Schreb.) Darbysh; Schedonorus phoenix (Scop.) Holub] is the primary cool season perennial grass in the eastern U.S. Most tall fescue contains an endophyte (Neotyphodium coenophialum), which produces ergot alkaloids that cause vasoconstriction and could restrict blood flow to the fetus in pregnant animals. The objective of this study was to examine fetal growth during maternal exposure to ergot alkaloids during gestation. Pregnant ewes (n = 16) were randomly assigned to one of two dietary treatments: 1) endophyte-infected (Neotyphodium coenophialum) tall fescue seed (E+; 0.8 ug of ergovaline /g diet DM) and 2) endophyte-free tall fescue seed (E-; 0.0 ug of ergovaline/g diet DM). Birth weight of lambs was reduced by 37% for E+ compared to E-. Organ and muscle weights were also lighter for E+ than E-. Exposure to ergot alkaloids in utero reduces fetal growth and muscle development.

Effect of Latent Myofascial Trigger Points on Strength Measurements of the Upper Trapezius: A Case-Controlled Trial

PubMed Central

Anshul

2011-01-01

ABSTRACT Purpose: The purpose of this article was to determine whether strength is altered in the upper trapezius in the presence of latent myofascial trigger points (MTrP). Methods: This study was case controlled and used convenience sampling. The sample recruited was homogeneous with respect to age, sex, height, and body mass. Participants were assessed for the presence of latent MTrP in the upper trapezius and placed into two groups: an experimental group that had latent MTrP in the upper trapezius and a control group that did not. Eighteen women (mean age 21.4 y, SD 1.89; mean height 156.9 cm, SD 4.03; and mean body mass 51.7 kg, SD 5.84) made up the experimental group, and 19 women (mean age 20.3 y, SD 1.86; mean height 158.6 cm, SD 3.14; and mean body mass 53.2 kg, SD 5.17) made up the control group. We obtained strength measurements of the non-dominant arm using a handheld dynamometer and compared them between the two groups. Results: The difference in the strength measurements between the two groups was not statistically significant (p=0.59). Conclusions: The presence of latent MTrPs may not affect the strength of the upper trapezius. PMID:22942517

Effects of different frequencies of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation on the recovery of upper limb motor dysfunction in patients with subacute cerebral infarction.

PubMed

Li, Jiang; Meng, Xiang-Min; Li, Ru-Yi; Zhang, Ru; Zhang, Zheng; Du, Yi-Feng

2016-10-01

Studies have confirmed that low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation can decrease the activity of cortical neurons, and high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation can increase the excitability of cortical neurons. However, there are few studies concerning the use of different frequencies of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation on the recovery of upper-limb motor function after cerebral infarction. We hypothesized that different frequencies of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in patients with cerebral infarction would produce different effects on the recovery of upper-limb motor function. This study enrolled 127 patients with upper-limb dysfunction during the subacute phase of cerebral infarction. These patients were randomly assigned to three groups. The low-frequency group comprised 42 patients who were treated with 1 Hz repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation on the contralateral hemisphere primary motor cortex (M1). The high-frequency group comprised 43 patients who were treated with 10 Hz repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation on ipsilateral M1. Finally, the sham group comprised 42 patients who were treated with 10 Hz of false stimulation on ipsilateral M1. A total of 135 seconds of stimulation was applied in the sham group and high-frequency group. At 2 weeks after treatment, cortical latency of motor-evoked potentials and central motor conduction time were significantly lower compared with before treatment. Moreover, motor function scores were significantly improved. The above indices for the low- and high-frequency groups were significantly different compared with the sham group. However, there was no significant difference between the low- and high-frequency groups. The results show that low- and high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation can similarly improve upper-limb motor function in patients with cerebral infarction.

MICROINJECTION OF DYNORPHIN INTO THE HIPPOCAMPUS IMPAIRS SPATIAL LEARNING IN RATS

EPA Science Inventory

The effect of hippocampal dynorphin administration on learning and memory was examined in spatial and nonspatial tasks. ilateral infusion of dynorphin A(1-8)(DYN; 10 or 20 ug in one ul) into the dorsal hippocampus resulted in dose-related impairment of spatial working memory in a...

Combining Manual Lymph Drainage with Physical Exercise after Modified Radical Mastectomy Effectively Prevents Upper Limb Lymphedema.

PubMed

Zhang, Lijuan; Fan, Aiqun; Yan, Jun; He, Yan; Zhang, Huiting; Zhang, Huizhen; Zhong, Qiaoling; Liu, Feng; Luo, Qinghua; Zhang, Liping; Tang, Hailin; Xin, Mingzhu

2016-06-01

Upper limb lymphedema is a common complication after radical mastectomy in patients with breast cancer. In this study, we examined the efficacy of self-manual lymph drainage (MLD) after modified radical mastectomy for the prevention of upper limb lymphedema, scar formation, or shoulder joint dysfunction in breast cancer patients. Breast cancer patients scheduled for modified radical mastectomy were randomly apportioned to undergo physical exercise only (PE group, the control; n = 500) or self-MLD as well as exercise (MLD group; n = 500) after surgery. In the PE group, patients started to undertake remedial exercises and progressive weight training after recovery from anesthesia. In the MLD group, in addition to receiving the same treatments as in the PE group, the patients were trained to perform self-MLD on the surgical incision for 10 min/session, 3 sessions/day, beginning after suture removal and incision closure (10 to 30 days after the surgery). Scar formation was evaluated at one week, and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after the surgery, respectively. Upper limb circumference and shoulder abduction were measured 24 h before surgery, and at one week, and 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after the surgery. Compared to those in the PE group, patients in MLD group experienced significant improvements in scar contracture, shoulder abduction, and upper limb circumference. Self-MLD, in combination with physical exercise, is beneficial for breast cancer patients in preventing postmastectomy scar formation, upper limb lymphedema, and shoulder joint dysfunction.

Age Differences in the Influence of Induced Negative Emotion on Decision-Making: The Role of Emotion Regulation.

PubMed

You, Xuqun; Ju, Chengting; Wang, Mo; Zhang, Baoshan; Liu, Pei

2017-11-19

In this study, we hypothesized that there is an age difference in the influence of negative emotion on decision-making and that this age difference is related to emotion regulation strategies. We carried out two studies. In the first, the older and younger adults completed the ultimatum game (UG) while in either an induced negative emotional or a neutral context. In the second, both the older and younger adults completed the UG while in an induced negative emotion while using either emotion reappraisal or expressive suppression to regulate their emotions during the task. The first study showed that, unlike younger adults, the older adults made similar choices in the neutral and negative induction groups. In addition, the older adults predominantly used a reappraisal strategy in both the negative and neutral emotional states, whereas the younger adults predominantly used a suppression strategy in the negative emotional state. In the second study, after the emotion regulation strategies were experimentally manipulated so that both age groups used the same strategy, we found no age difference in decision-making. Our findings indicated that the influence of negative emotion on decision-making differs between older and younger adults and that this age difference was associated with their different emotion regulation processes. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The Gerontological Society of America. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Study on heat transfer coefficients during cooling of PET bottles for food beverages

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liga, Antonio; Montesanto, Salvatore; Mannella, Gianluca A.; La Carrubba, Vincenzo; Brucato, Valerio; Cammalleri, Marco

2016-08-01

The heat transfer properties of different cooling systems dealing with Poly-Ethylene-Terephthalate (PET) bottles were investigated. The heat transfer coefficient (Ug) was measured in various fluid dynamic conditions. Cooling media were either air or water. It was shown that heat transfer coefficients are strongly affected by fluid dynamics conditions, and range from 10 W/m2 K to nearly 400 W/m2 K. PET bottle thickness effect on Ug was shown to become relevant under faster fluid dynamics regimes.

Unipolar Electric Machines with Liquid-Metal Current Pickup,

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-03-08

stationary electrode of current pickup; 5 - main bearing ; 6 - thrust bearing ; 7 - elastic coupling; 8 - multiplexing; 9- rotor; 10, 11- discharge...inclusion/connection of load current UG eV U R. +R R.’ where e.,U- emf with the load and voltage/stress of UG; R., Rh - resistance/resistor of load and...with the load of UM to a certain extent is similar to the field of the system of rectilinear and circular currents, by the specific form of those

Common command-and-control user interface for current force UGS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stolovy, Gary H.

2009-05-01

The Current Force Unattended Ground Sensors (UGS) comprise the OmniSense, Scorpion, and Silent Watch systems. As deployed by U.S. Army Central Command in 2006, sensor reports from the three systems were integrated into a common Graphical User Interface (GUI), with three separate vendor-specific applications for Command-and-Control (C2) functions. This paper describes the requirements, system architecture, implementation, and testing of an upgrade to the Processing, Exploitation, and Dissemination back-end server to incorporate common remote Command-and-Control capabilities.

The Boundary Element Method Applied to the Two Dimensional Stefan Moving Boundary Problem

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-03-15

Unc), - ( UGt )t - (UG,,),,] - (UG), If we integrate this equation with respect to r from 0 to t - c and with respect to and ij on the region 11(r...and others. "Moving Boundary Problems in Phase Change Mod- els," SIGNUM Newsletter, 20: 8-12 (1985). 21. Stefan, J. "Ober einige Probleme der Theorie ...ier Wirmelcitung," S.-B. \\Vein. Akad. Mat. Natur., 98: 173-484 (1889). 22.-. "flber (lie Theorie der Eisbildung insbesondere fiber die lisbildung im

The one year effects of three doses of hepatitis B vaccine as a booster in anti-HBs-negative children 11-15 years after primary immunization; China, 2009-2011.

PubMed

Yao, Jun; Shan, Huan; Chen, Yongdi; Jiang, Zheng-gang; Dai, Xue-wei; Ren, Jing-jing; Xu, Kai-jin; Ruan, Bing; Yang, Shi-gui; Li, Qian

2015-01-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate hepatitis B surface antibody (anti-HBs) levels one year after hepatitis B booster vaccination in anti-HBs-negative (<10 mIU/mL) children 11-15 y after primary vaccination. Anti-HBs titers were examined in 235 children who were negative for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), anti-HBs, and hepatitis B core antibody (anti-HBc). The children were then divided into 3 groups based on their anti-HBs levels pre-booster: Group I, <0 .1 mIU/mL; Group II, 0.1 to <1 .0 mIU/mL; and Group III, 1.0 to <10 .0 mIU/mL. They were vaccinated with 3 doses of hepatitis B vaccine (0-1-6 month, 20 ug), and anti-HBs levels were measured. One month after the first dose, the anti-HBs positive rates (≥ 10 mIU/mL) in Groups I-III were 56.14%, 83.61% and 100%. One month after the third dose, the anti-HBs-positive rates in Groups I-III were 96.49%, 98.36% and 100%. One year after the third dose, the anti-HBs-positive rates in Groups I-III were 73.68%, 75.41% and 98.29%, respectively. Protective levels declined more rapidly for those with lower titers. Children with pre-booster anti-HBs titers of 1-9.9 mIU/mL might not need any booster dose, and the children with pre-booster titers of 0.1-0.9 and <0 .1 mIU/mL might need more than one dose booster vaccination.

The one year effects of three doses of hepatitis B vaccine as a booster in anti-HBs-negative children 11–15 years after primary immunization; China, 2009–2011

PubMed Central

Yao, Jun; Shan, Huan; Chen, Yongdi; Jiang, Zheng-gang; Dai, Xue-wei; Ren, Jing-jing; Xu, Kai-jin; Ruan, Bing; Yang, Shi-gui; Li, Qian

2015-01-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate hepatitis B surface antibody (anti-HBs) levels one year after hepatitis B booster vaccination in anti-HBs-negative (<10 mIU/mL) children 11–15 y after primary vaccination. Anti-HBs titers were examined in 235 children who were negative for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), anti-HBs, and hepatitis B core antibody (anti-HBc). The children were then divided into 3 groups based on their anti-HBs levels pre-booster: Group I, <0 .1 mIU/mL; Group II, 0.1 to <1 .0 mIU/mL; and Group III, 1.0 to <10 .0 mIU/mL. They were vaccinated with 3 doses of hepatitis B vaccine (0–1–6 month, 20 ug), and anti-HBs levels were measured. One month after the first dose, the anti-HBs positive rates (≥10 mIU/mL) in Groups I–III were 56.14%, 83.61% and 100%. One month after the third dose, the anti-HBs-positive rates in Groups I–III were 96.49%, 98.36% and 100%. One year after the third dose, the anti-HBs-positive rates in Groups I–III were 73.68%, 75.41% and 98.29%, respectively. Protective levels declined more rapidly for those with lower titers. Children with pre-booster anti-HBs titers of 1–9.9 mIU/mL might not need any booster dose, and the children with pre-booster titers of 0.1–0.9 and <0 .1 mIU/mL might need more than one dose booster vaccination. PMID:25692413

Reliability and concurrent validity of the iPhone® Compass application to measure thoracic rotation range of motion (ROM) in healthy participants

PubMed Central

Schram, Ben; Cox, Alistair J.; Anderson, Sarah L.; Keogh, Justin

2018-01-01

Background Several water-based sports (swimming, surfing and stand up paddle boarding) require adequate thoracic mobility (specifically rotation) in order to perform the appropriate activity requirements. The measurement of thoracic spine rotation is problematic for clinicians due to a lack of convenient and reliable measurement techniques. More recently, smartphones have been used to quantify movement in various joints in the body; however, there appears to be a paucity of research using smartphones to assess thoracic spine movement. Therefore, the aim of this study is to determine the reliability (intra and inter rater) and validity of the iPhone® app (Compass) when assessing thoracic spine rotation ROM in healthy individuals. Methods A total of thirty participants were recruited for this study. Thoracic spine rotation ROM was measured using both the current clinical gold standard, a universal goniometer (UG) and the Smart Phone Compass app. Intra-rater and inter-rater reliability was determined with a Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) and associated 95% confidence intervals (CI). Validation of the Compass app in comparison to the UG was measured using Pearson’s correlation coefficient and levels of agreement were identified with Bland–Altman plots and 95% limits of agreement. Results Both the UG and Compass app measurements both had excellent reproducibility for intra-rater (ICC 0.94–0.98) and inter-rater reliability (ICC 0.72–0.89). However, the Compass app measurements had higher intra-rater reliability (ICC = 0.96 − 0.98; 95% CI [0.93–0.99]; vs. ICC = 0.94 − 0.98; 95% CI [0.88–0.99]) and inter-rater reliability (ICC = 0.87 − 0.89; 95% CI [0.74–0.95] vs. ICC = 0.72 − 0.82; 95% CI [0.21–0.94]). A strong and significant correlation was found between the UG and the Compass app, demonstrating good concurrent validity (r = 0.835, p < 0.001). Levels of agreement between the two devices were 24.8° (LoA –9.5°, +15.3°). The UG was found to consistently measure higher values than the compass app (mean difference 2.8°, P < 0.001). Conclusion This study reveals that the iPhone® app (Compass) is a reliable tool for measuring thoracic spine rotation which produces greater reproducibility of measurements both within and between raters than a UG. As a significant positive correlation exists between the Compass app and UG, this supports the use of either device in clinical practice as a reliable and valid tool to measure thoracic rotation. Considering the levels of agreement are clinically unacceptable, the devices should not be used interchangeably for initial and follow up measurements. PMID:29568701

Reliability and concurrent validity of the iPhone® Compass application to measure thoracic rotation range of motion (ROM) in healthy participants.

PubMed

Furness, James; Schram, Ben; Cox, Alistair J; Anderson, Sarah L; Keogh, Justin

2018-01-01

Several water-based sports (swimming, surfing and stand up paddle boarding) require adequate thoracic mobility (specifically rotation) in order to perform the appropriate activity requirements. The measurement of thoracic spine rotation is problematic for clinicians due to a lack of convenient and reliable measurement techniques. More recently, smartphones have been used to quantify movement in various joints in the body; however, there appears to be a paucity of research using smartphones to assess thoracic spine movement. Therefore, the aim of this study is to determine the reliability (intra and inter rater) and validity of the iPhone ® app (Compass) when assessing thoracic spine rotation ROM in healthy individuals. A total of thirty participants were recruited for this study. Thoracic spine rotation ROM was measured using both the current clinical gold standard, a universal goniometer (UG) and the Smart Phone Compass app. Intra-rater and inter-rater reliability was determined with a Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) and associated 95% confidence intervals (CI). Validation of the Compass app in comparison to the UG was measured using Pearson's correlation coefficient and levels of agreement were identified with Bland-Altman plots and 95% limits of agreement. Both the UG and Compass app measurements both had excellent reproducibility for intra-rater (ICC 0.94-0.98) and inter-rater reliability (ICC 0.72-0.89). However, the Compass app measurements had higher intra-rater reliability ( ICC  = 0.96 - 0.98; 95% CI [0.93-0.99]; vs. ICC  = 0.94 - 0.98; 95% CI [0.88-0.99]) and inter-rater reliability ( ICC  = 0.87 - 0.89; 95% CI [0.74-0.95] vs. ICC  = 0.72 - 0.82; 95% CI [0.21-0.94]). A strong and significant correlation was found between the UG and the Compass app, demonstrating good concurrent validity ( r  = 0.835, p  < 0.001). Levels of agreement between the two devices were 24.8° (LoA -9.5°, +15.3°). The UG was found to consistently measure higher values than the compass app (mean difference 2.8°, P  < 0.001). This study reveals that the iPhone ® app (Compass) is a reliable tool for measuring thoracic spine rotation which produces greater reproducibility of measurements both within and between raters than a UG. As a significant positive correlation exists between the Compass app and UG, this supports the use of either device in clinical practice as a reliable and valid tool to measure thoracic rotation. Considering the levels of agreement are clinically unacceptable, the devices should not be used interchangeably for initial and follow up measurements.

Milestones on the social accountability journey: Family medicine practice locations of Northern Ontario School of Medicine graduates.

PubMed

Hogenbirk, John C; Timony, Patrick E; French, Margaret G; Strasser, Roger; Pong, Raymond W; Cervin, Catherine; Graves, Lisa

2016-03-01

To assess the effect of different levels of exposure to the Northern Ontario School of Medicine's (NOSM's) distributed medical education programs in northern Ontario on FPs' practice locations. Cross-sectional design using longitudinal survey and administrative data. Canada. All 131 Canadian medical graduates who completed FP training in 2011 to 2013 and who completed their undergraduate (UG) medical degree or postgraduate (PG) residency training or both at NOSM. Exposure to NOSM's medical education program at the UG (n = 49) or PG (n = 31) level or both (n = 51). Primary practice location in September of 2014. Approximately 16% (21 of 129) of FPs were practising in rural northern Ontario, 45% (58 of 129) in urban northern Ontario, and 5% (7 of 129) in rural southern Ontario. Logistic regression found that more rural Canadian background years predicted rural practice in northern Ontario or Ontario, with odds ratios of 1.16 and 1.12, respectively. Northern Canadian background, sex, marital status, and having children did not predict practice location. Completing both UG and PG training at NOSM predicted practising in rural and northern Ontario locations with odds ratios of 4.06 to 48.62. Approximately 61% (79 of 129) of Canadian medical graduate FPs who complete at least some of their training at NOSM practise in northern Ontario. Slightly more than a quarter (21 of 79) of these FPs practise in rural northern Ontario. The FPs with more years of rural background or those with greater exposure to NOSM's medical education programs had higher odds of practising in rural northern Ontario. This study shows that NOSM is on the road to reaching one of its social accountability milestones.

Multiple Elemental Exposures Amongst Workers at the Agbogbloshie Electronic Waste (E-Waste) Site in Ghana

PubMed Central

Srigboh, Roland Kofi; Basu, Niladri; Stephens, Judith; Asampong, Emmanuel; Perkins, Marie; Neitzel, Richard L.; Fobil, Julius

2016-01-01

Electronic waste (e-waste) recycling is growing worldwide and raising a number of environmental health concerns. One of the largest e-waste sites is Agbogbloshie (Ghana). While several toxic elements have been reported in Agbogbloshie’s environment, there is limited knowledge of human exposures there. The objectives of this study were to characterize exposures to several essential (copper, iron, manganese, selenium, zinc) and toxic (arsenic, cadmium, cobalt, chromium, mercury, nickel, lead) elements in the urine and blood of male workers (n=58) at Agbogbloshie, as well as females (n=11) working in activities that serve the site, and to relate these exposures to sociodemographic and occupational characteristics. The median number of years worked at the site was 5, and the average worker indicated being active in 6.8 tasks (of 9 key e-waste job categories). Additionally, we categorized four main e-waste activities (in brackets % of population self-reported main activity): dealing (22.4%), sorting (24.1%), dismantling (50%), and burning (3.4%) e-waste materials. Many blood and urinary elements (including essential ones) were within biomonitoring reference ranges. However, blood cadmium (1.2 ug/L median) and lead (6.4 ug/dl; 67% above U.S. CDC/NIOSH reference level), and urinary arsenic (38.3 ug/L; 39% above U.S. ATSDR value) levels were elevated compared to background populations elsewhere. Workers who burned e-waste tended to have the highest biomarker levels. The findings of this study contribute to a growing body of work at Agbogbloshie (and elsewhere) to document that individuals working within e-waste sites are exposed to a number of toxic elements, some at potentially concerning levels. PMID:27580259

Bioaccumulation and Toxicity of Uranium, Arsenic and Nickel to Juveniles and Adults Hyalella azteca in Spiked Sediment Bioassays.

PubMed

Goulet, Richard R; Thompson, Patsy-A

2018-05-26

Uranium mining and milling release arsenic (As), nickel (Ni) and uranium (U) to receiving waters, which accumulate in sediments. The objective of this study was to investigate if As, Ni and U concentrations in tissue residue of Hyalella azteca, overlying water, sediment pore water and solids could predict juvenile and adult survival and growth in similar conditions to lake sediments downstream of Uranium mines and mills. We conducted 14 day, static sediment toxicity tests spiked with uranium, arsenic and nickel salts. For uranium, we spiked uranyl nitrate with sodium bicarbonate to limit U precipitation once in contact with circumneutral sediment. LC 50 for As, Ni and U of juveniles and adults based on measured concentrations in sediments were 1.8 and 2.2 µmol As/g dw, 6.3 and 13.4 µmol Ni/g dw and 0.2 and 0.9 µmol U/g dw, respectively. Adult survival and growth linearly decreased with increasing bioaccumulation. For juveniles, metal accumulation linearly predicted survival. We calculated lethal body concentrations (LBC 50 ) for juveniles and adults of 70 and 485 nmol As/g dw, 246 and 832 nmol Ni/g dw and 1.7 and 4.4 nmol U/g dw, respectively. The concentrations of As, Ni and U in tissue residue leading to a 20% decrease in growth were 427 nmol As/g, 755 nmol Ni/g and 5 nmol U/g. Overall, this study showed that Uranium was the most toxic element followed by As and Ni, that juveniles were more sensitive to the three metals tested than adults and that threshold body concentrations can support assessment of benthic invertebrate community impairment. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Monitoring heavy metals, residual agricultural chemicals and sulfites in traditional herbal decoctions.

PubMed

Yu, In-Sil; Lee, Jeong-Sook; Kim, Sung-Dan; Kim, Yun-Hee; Park, Hae-Won; Ryu, Hoe-Jin; Lee, Jib-Ho; Lee, Jeong-Mi; Jung, Kweon; Na, Cheol; Joung, Jin-Yong; Son, Chang-Gue

2017-03-14

Asian traditional herbal preparations are frequently considered for the contamination with undeclared toxic or hazardous substances. The aim of this study was to determine the toxic heavy metals, pesticides and sulfur dioxide in decoctions that is a common form of final utilization in Korea. A total of 155 decoctions composed of multi-ingredient traditional herbs were randomly sampled from Seoul in Korea between 2013 and 2014. For each decoction, the concentrations of four heavy metals (arsenic, cadmium, lead and mercury), 33 pesticides and sulfur dioxide were analyzed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), mercury analyzer, gas chromatography/nitrogen phosphorous detector (GC/NPD), gas chromatography/micro electron capture detector (GC/μECD), and Monier-Williams method respectively. One hundred fifty-two of One hundred fifty-five decoctions (98.1%) contained one of three heavy metals (96.1% for As, 97.4% for Cd, and 90.3% for Pb, 0.0% for Hg). Their average concentrations (77.0 ± 79.7 ug/kg for As, 20.4 ± 23.7 ug/kg for Cd, and 68.8 ± 76.5 ug/kg for Pb) were approximately 20% of the maximum allowable limits of vegetable or ginseng beverage described in the Korean Food Standard Codex while their 95th percentile concentrations were below than the guideline for them. None of 33 pesticides was detected in 155 decoction samples, and only one sample showed over limit of detection for residual sulfites. This study support that the contained status of toxic heavy metals, pesticides and sulfur dioxide in herbal decoctions are currently within safe level in Korea, and provide a reference data for the further studies focused on the safety herbal preparations.

Safety and Immunogenicity of a Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae bacterin for domestic sheep (Ovis aries).

PubMed

Ziegler, Jessie C; Lahmers, Kevin K; Barrington, George M; Parish, Steven M; Kilzer, Katherine; Baker, Katherine; Besser, Thomas E

2014-01-01

Mortality from epizootic pneumonia is hindering re-establishment of bighorn sheep populations in western North America. Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae, a primary agent of this disease, is frequently carried asymptomatically by the domestic sheep and goats that constitute the reservoir of this agent for transmission to bighorn sheep. Our long-term objective is to reduce the risk of M. ovipneumoniae infection of bighorn sheep; one approach to this objective is to control the pathogen in its reservoir hosts. The safety and immunogenicity of M. ovipneumoniae for domestic sheep was evaluated in three experimental immunization protocols: 1) live M. ovipneumoniae (50 ug protein); 2) killed M. ovipneumoniae (50 ug whole cell protein) in oil adjuvant; and 3) killed M. ovipneumoniae (250 ug whole cell protein) in oil adjuvant. Immunogenicity was assessed by two serum antibody measures: competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (cELISA) (experiments 1-3) and serum growth inhibition (Experiment 3). Passive immunogenicity was also assessed in the third experiment using the same assays applied to blood samples obtained from the lambs of immunized ewes. Adverse reactions to immunization were generally minor, but local reactions were regularly observed at immunization sites with bacterins in oil adjuvants. No evidence of M. ovipneumoniae specific antibody responses were observed in the first or second experiments and no resistance to colonization was observed in the first experiment. However, the ewes in the third experiment developed strong cELISA serum antibody responses and significant serum M. ovipneumoniae inhibition activity, and these responses were passively transferred to their lambs. The results of these trials indicate that immunization with relatively large antigenic mass combined with an adjuvant is capable of inducing strong active antibody responses in ewes and passively immunizing lambs.

Safety and Immunogenicity of a Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae Bacterin for Domestic Sheep (Ovis aries)

PubMed Central

Ziegler, Jessie C.; Lahmers, Kevin K.; Barrington, George M.; Parish, Steven M.; Kilzer, Katherine; Baker, Katherine; Besser, Thomas E.

2014-01-01

Background Mortality from epizootic pneumonia is hindering re-establishment of bighorn sheep populations in western North America. Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae, a primary agent of this disease, is frequently carried asymptomatically by the domestic sheep and goats that constitute the reservoir of this agent for transmission to bighorn sheep. Our long-term objective is to reduce the risk of M. ovipneumoniae infection of bighorn sheep; one approach to this objective is to control the pathogen in its reservoir hosts. Methods The safety and immunogenicity of M. ovipneumoniae for domestic sheep was evaluated in three experimental immunization protocols: 1) live M. ovipneumoniae (50 ug protein); 2) killed M. ovipneumoniae (50 ug whole cell protein) in oil adjuvant; and 3) killed M. ovipneumoniae (250 ug whole cell protein) in oil adjuvant. Immunogenicity was assessed by two serum antibody measures: competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (cELISA) (experiments 1–3) and serum growth inhibition (Experiment 3). Passive immunogenicity was also assessed in the third experiment using the same assays applied to blood samples obtained from the lambs of immunized ewes. Results and Conclusions Adverse reactions to immunization were generally minor, but local reactions were regularly observed at immunization sites with bacterins in oil adjuvants. No evidence of M. ovipneumoniae specific antibody responses were observed in the first or second experiments and no resistance to colonization was observed in the first experiment. However, the ewes in the third experiment developed strong cELISA serum antibody responses and significant serum M. ovipneumoniae inhibition activity, and these responses were passively transferred to their lambs. The results of these trials indicate that immunization with relatively large antigenic mass combined with an adjuvant is capable of inducing strong active antibody responses in ewes and passively immunizing lambs. PMID:24752006

Leaf Surface Effects on Retrieving Chlorophyll Content from Hyperspectral Remote Sensing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qiu, Feng; Chen, JingMing; Ju, Weimin; Wang, Jun; Zhang, Qian

2017-04-01

Light reflected directly from the leaf surface without entering the surface layer is not influenced by leaf internal biochemical content. Leaf surface reflectance varies from leaf to leaf due to differences in the surface roughness features and is relatively more important in strong absorption spectral regions. Therefore it introduces dispersion of data points in the relationship between biochemical concentration and reflectance (especially in the visible region). Separation of surface from total leaf reflection is important to improve the link between leaf pigments content and remote sensing data. This study aims to estimate leaf surface reflectance from hyperspectral remote sensing data and retrieve chlorophyll content by inverting a modified PROSPECT model. Considering leaf surface reflectance is almost the same in the visible and near infrared spectral regions, a surface layer with a reflectance independent of wavelength but varying from leaf to leaf was added to the PROSPECT model. The specific absorption coefficients of pigments were recalibrated. Then the modified model was inverted on independent datasets to check the performance of the model in predicting the chlorophyll content. Results show that differences in estimated surface layer reflectance of various species are noticeable. Surface reflectance of leaves with epicuticular waxes and trichomes is usually higher than other samples. Reconstruction of leaf reflectance and transmittance in the 400-1000 nm wavelength region using the modified PROSPECT model is excellent with low root mean square error (RMSE) and bias. Improvements for samples with high surface reflectance (e.g. maize) are significant, especially for high pigment leaves. Moreover, chlorophyll retrieved from inversion of the modified model is consequently improved (RMSE from 5.9-13.3 ug/cm2 with mean value 8.1 ug/cm2, while mean correlation coefficient is 0.90) compared to results of PROSPECT-5 (RMSE from 9.6-20.2 ug/cm2 with mean value 13.1 ug/cm2, while mean correlation coefficient is 0.81). Underestimation of high chlorophyll content, which is due to underestimation of reflectance in the visible region of PROSPECT, is partially corrected or alleviated. Improvements are particularly noticeable for leaves with high surface reflectance or high chlorophyll content, which both lead to large proportions of surface reflectance to the total leaf reflectance.

Hepatic microsomal cytochromes P450 in mink fed Saginaw Bay carp (SBC)

USGS Publications Warehouse

Melancon, M.J.; LeCaptain, L.; Rattner, B.A.; Heaton, S.; Aulerich, R.; Tillitt, D.; Stegeman, John J.; Woodin, B.

1992-01-01

Livers from mink fed diets containing 0% (n = 12), 10% (n = 11), 20% (n = 12) and 40% (n = 10) SBC for 6 months contained 0.1, 2.2, 3.6, and 6.3 ug/g total PCBs, respectively. Hepatic microsomes were prepared and assayed for protein, arylhydrocarbon hydroxylase (AHH), benzyloxyresorufin-O-dealkylase (BROD), ethoxy-ROD (ER0D), pentoxy-ROD (PROD), and ethoxycoumarin-OD (ECOD). Mink fed SBC had increased AHH, EROD, and ECOD (group means 2.2-3.4 X control means), decreased BROD and unchanged PROD (the latter 2 assays indicators for phenobarbital-type induction in mammals). Three samples from each group were examined by western blot using a polyclonal anti-P450llB antibody and a monoclonal anti-P450lA antibody (MAb 1-12-3). Mink fed SBC showed induction of a protein recognized by anti-P450lA (8 X control), but had little protein recognized by anti-P450IlB. The monooxygenase activities and western blot data give a consistent picture of MC-type but not PB-type induction in mink fed SBC.

Effects of injectable anticholinergic drugs on soman-induced lethality and convulsant/subconvulsant activity

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

Harris, L.W.; Anderson, D.R.; Lennox, W.J.

1993-05-13

FDA approved, injectable preparations of candidate compounds BENZTROPINE (BZT), 1.0 mg/ml; biperiden (BIP), 5.0 mg/ml; dicyclomine (DCL), 10 mg/ml; 1-hyoscyamine (HYO), 0.5 mg/ml; orphenadrine (ORP), 30 mg/ml; scopolamine (SCP), 1.0 mg/ml were tested in parallel with diazepam (DZ, the standard) in male guinea pigs against ongoing soman induced convulsive (CV)/sub-CV activity. Three trained graders concurrently assigned CV/sub-CV scores (12 - convulsions; 0 normal) to each animal. Animals received (im) pyridostigmine (PYR; 26 ug/kg) 30 min before soman (56 ug/kg; 2 LD50), atropine (2 mg/kg) admixed with 2-PAM (25 mg/kg) at one min after soman, and the candidate drug preparation atmore » 5.67 min post soman, a time when CV activity is assured. BIP and SCP demonstrated efficacy over dosage ranges between 10 and 0.3 and 1.0 and 0.13 mg/kg, respectively, while the other preparations were less effective at their respective maximum dosages. At optimal dosages of SCP (0.5 mg/kg) and BIP (10 mg/kg), the CV/sub-CV scores were significantly lower (p < 0.05) than those of DZ.« less

Extraction, purification and elicitor activities of polysaccharides from Chrysanthemum indicum.

PubMed

Du, Ningning; Tian, Wei; Zheng, Dongfang; Zhang, Xinyi; Qin, Pinyan

2016-01-01

Polysaccharides isolated from Chrysanthemum indicum were studied for their pathogen-derived resistance against Sclerotium rolfsii sacc in Atractylodis maceocephalae koidz. The total sugar content and monosaccharide analysis were determined by phenol-sulfuric acid method and gas chromatography, and infrared spectroscopy performed for simple structure information. The activities of CAT and POD as protective enzymes in A. maceocephalae leaves were evaluated. The purified polysaccharides exhibited strong CAT and POD activities in inoculated with S. rolfsii in A. macrocephala leaves, attained the maximum value 568.3 Ug(-1)min(-1) and 604.4 Ug(-1)min(-1)respectively. Whereas, when compared with the control plants, 20mg/ml purified polysaccharides exhibited the strongest CAT and POD activities. Notably, the treatments of A. macepcephalae seedlings with C. indicum polysaccharides (CIP) decreased disease index development caused by S. rolfsii. The disease index after 10 days was significantly reduced when the seedlings treated with 20mg/ml CIP, 4.41 compared to the control plants 32.00. Given together, these results indicated that purified polysaccharides derived from C. indicum may be useful as a natural inducer. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Energetic dose: Beyond fire and flint?

USGS Publications Warehouse

Linder, G.; Rattner, B.; Cohen, J.

2000-01-01

Nutritional and bioenergetic interactions influence exposure to environmental chemicals and may affect the risk realized when wildlife are exposed in the field. Here, food-chain analysis focuses on prairie voles (Microtus ochrogaster) and the evaluation of chemical risks associated with paraquat following 10-d dietary exposures. Reproductive effects were measured in 60-d trials that followed exposures to paraquat-tainted feed: control (untainted feed); 21 mg paraquat/kg feed; 63 mg paraquat/kg feed; and feed-restricted control (untainted feed restricted to 60% baseline consumption). Reproductive success was evaluated in control and treated breeding pairs, and a preliminary bioenergetics analysis was completed in parallel to derive exposure dose. Although reproductive performance differed among groups, feed-restriction appeared to be the dominant treatment effect observed in these 10-d feeding exposure/limited reproductive trials. Exposure dose ranged from 3.70-3.76 to 9.41-11.51 mg parquat/kg BW/day at 21 and 63 mg paraquat/kg feed stock exposures, respectively. Energetic doses as ug paraquat/kcal yielded preliminary estimates of energetic costs associated with paraquat exposure, and were similar within treatments for both sexes, ranging from 4.2-5.5 and 13.1-15.0 ug paraquat/kcal for voles exposed to 21 mg/kg feed stock and 63 mg/kg feed stock, respectively. Given the increasing likelihood that environmental chemicals will be found in wildlife habitat at 'acceptable levels', the critical role that wildlife nutrition plays in evaluating ecological risks should be fully integrated into the assessment process. Tools applied to the analysis of risk must gain higher resolution than the relatively crude methods we currently bring to the process.

Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency in Brazilian Children With Sickle Cell Anemia is not Associated With Clinical Ischemic Stroke or High-Risk Transcranial Doppler.

PubMed

Belisário, André Rolim; Rodrigues Sales, Rahyssa; Evelin Toledo, Nayara; Velloso-Rodrigues, Cibele; Maria Silva, Célia; Borato Viana, Marcos

2016-06-01

Stroke is a severe complication of sickle cell anemia (SCA). The role of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency in the development of stroke in children with SCA is controversial. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of clinical ischemic stroke, high-risk transcranial Doppler measurements (TCD), and hematological features with molecular variants usually linked to G6PD deficiency or with the biochemical activity of G6PD in a cohort of 395 Brazilian children with SCA. G6PD activity was quantitatively determined using an enzymatic-colorimetric assay. G6PD mutations were determined by PCR-RFLP and sequencing. Clinical and hematological data were retrieved from the children's records. The prevalence of molecularly defined deficiency (hereafter, molecular deficiency) was 4.3% (95% confidence interval: 2.3-6.3%). The mean G6PD activity was 16.88 U/g hemoglobin (Hb) (standard error of the mean [SEM] 0.28) in the group without G6PD molecular deficiency and 8.43 (SEM 1.01) U/g Hb in the group with G6PD A(-) molecular deficiency. G6PD molecular deficiency was not associated with any hematological features. No effects of G6PD molecular deficiency on clinical ischemic stroke or high-risk TCD were detected. The mean G6PD activity was similar in children who had clinical ischemic stroke and in those without stroke. Similar results were obtained in analyses comparing children who had high-risk TCD and those without high-risk TCD. Our study demonstrated that G6PD molecular deficiency was not associated either with clinical ischemic stroke or high-risk TCD. Similarly, we found no associations between G6PD enzyme activity and stroke or high-risk TCD. Small sample size precludes definitive conclusions. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The Influence of Counterfactual Comparison on Fairness in Gain-Loss Contexts.

PubMed

Li, Qi; Wang, Chunsheng; Taxer, Jamie; Yang, Zhong; Zheng, Ya; Liu, Xun

2017-01-01

Fairness perceptions may be affected by counterfactual comparisons. Although certain studies using a two-player ultimatum game (UG) have shown that comparison with the proposers influences the responders' fairness perceptions in a gain context, the effect of counterfactual comparison in a UG with multiple responders or proposers remains unclear, especially in a loss context. To resolve these issues, this study used a modified three-player UG with multiple responders in Experiment 1 and multiple proposers in Experiment 2 to examine the influence of counterfactual comparison on fairness-related decision-making in gain and loss contexts. The two experiments consistently showed that regardless of the gain or loss context, the level of inequality of the offer and counterfactual comparison influenced acceptance rates (ARs), response times (RTs), and fairness ratings (FRs). If the offers that were received were better than the counterfactual offers, unequal offers were more likely to be accepted than equal offers, and participants were more likely to report higher FRs and to make decisions more quickly. In contrast, when the offers they received were worse than the counterfactual offers, participants were more likely to reject unequal offers than equal offers, reported lower FRs, and made decisions more slowly. These results demonstrate that responders' fairness perceptions are influenced by not only comparisons of the absolute amount of money that they would receive but also specific counterfactuals from other proposers or responders. These findings improve our understanding of fairness perceptions.

The Influence of Counterfactual Comparison on Fairness in Gain-Loss Contexts

PubMed Central

Li, Qi; Wang, Chunsheng; Taxer, Jamie; Yang, Zhong; Zheng, Ya; Liu, Xun

2017-01-01

Fairness perceptions may be affected by counterfactual comparisons. Although certain studies using a two-player ultimatum game (UG) have shown that comparison with the proposers influences the responders' fairness perceptions in a gain context, the effect of counterfactual comparison in a UG with multiple responders or proposers remains unclear, especially in a loss context. To resolve these issues, this study used a modified three-player UG with multiple responders in Experiment 1 and multiple proposers in Experiment 2 to examine the influence of counterfactual comparison on fairness-related decision-making in gain and loss contexts. The two experiments consistently showed that regardless of the gain or loss context, the level of inequality of the offer and counterfactual comparison influenced acceptance rates (ARs), response times (RTs), and fairness ratings (FRs). If the offers that were received were better than the counterfactual offers, unequal offers were more likely to be accepted than equal offers, and participants were more likely to report higher FRs and to make decisions more quickly. In contrast, when the offers they received were worse than the counterfactual offers, participants were more likely to reject unequal offers than equal offers, reported lower FRs, and made decisions more slowly. These results demonstrate that responders' fairness perceptions are influenced by not only comparisons of the absolute amount of money that they would receive but also specific counterfactuals from other proposers or responders. These findings improve our understanding of fairness perceptions. PMID:28536542

Polyphenols from Berries of Aronia melanocarpa Reduce the Plasma Lipid Peroxidation Induced by Ziprasidone

PubMed Central

Dietrich-Muszalska, Anna; Kopka, Justyna

2014-01-01

Background. Oxidative stress in schizophrenia may be caused partially by the treatment of patients with antipsychotics. The aim of the study was to establish the effects of polyphenol compounds derived from berries of Aronia melanocarpa (Aronox) on the plasma lipid peroxidation induced by ziprasidone in vitro. Methods. Lipid peroxidation was measured by the level of thiobarbituric acid reactive species (TBARS). The samples of plasma from healthy subjects were incubated with ziprasidone (40 ng/ml; 139 ng/ml; and 250 ng/ml) alone and with Aronox (5 ug/ml; 50 ug/ml). Results. We observed a statistically significant increase of TBARS level after incubation of plasma with ziprasidone (40 ng/ml; 139 ng/ml; and 250 ng/ml) (after 24 h incubation: P = 7.0 × 10−4, P = 1.6 × 10−3, and P = 2.7 × 10−3, resp.) and Aronox lipid peroxidation caused by ziprasidone was significantly reduced. After 24-hour incubation of plasma with ziprasidone (40 ng/ml; 139 ng/ml; and 250 ng/ml) in the presence of 50 ug/ml Aronox, the level of TBARS was significantly decreased: P = 6.5 × 10−8, P = 7.0 × 10−6, and P = 3.0 × 10−5, respectively. Conclusion. Aronox causes a distinct reduction of lipid peroxidation induced by ziprasidone. PMID:25061527

Home-based resistance training improves femoral bone mineral density in women on hormone therapy.

PubMed

Judge, James Oat; Kleppinger, Alison; Kenny, Anne; Smith, Jo-Anne; Biskup, Brad; Marcella, Glenn

2005-09-01

This study tested whether moderate resistance training would improve femoral bone mineral density (BMD) in long-term users of hormone therapy with low BMD. The study was a 2-year randomized, controlled, trial (RCT) of moderate resistance training of either the lower extremity or the upper extremity. Eighty-five women participated in a 6-month observation period. The setting was center-based and home-based training. The participants were 189 women aged 59-78 years, with total femur T-scores from -0.8 to -2.8 and on hormone therapy (HT) for a minimum of 2 years (mean 11.8 years); 153 completed the trial. Lower extremity training used weight belts (mean 7.8 kg) in step-ups and chair rises; upper extremity training used elastic bands and dumbbells. Measurements were BMD and body composition [dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA)], bone turnover markers. Total femoral BMD showed a downward trend during the observation period: 0.35%+/-0.18% (P=0.14). The response to training was similar in the upper and lower groups in the primary outcomes. At 2 years, total femoral BMD increased 1.5% (95% CI 0.8%-2.2%) in the lower group and 1.8% (95% CI 1.1%-2.5%) in the upper group. Trochanter BMD increased 2.4% (95% CI 1.3%-3.5%) in the lower group and 2.5% (95% CI 1.4%-3.6%) in the upper group (for both analyses time effect P<0.001). At 1 year, a bone resorption marker (C-telopeptide) decreased 9% (P=0.04). Bone formation markers, bone-specific alkaline phosphatase, decreased 5% (P<0.001), and N-terminal type I procollagen peptide decreased 7% (P=0.01). Body composition (percent lean and percent body fat) was maintained in both groups. We concluded that long-term moderate resistance training reversed bone loss, decreased bone turnover, increased femur BMD, and maintained body composition. The similarity of response in upper and lower groups supports a systemic response rather than a site-specific response to moderate resistance training.

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

Warren, J.E.; Klaine, S.J.

The field cricket, Acheta domesticus, was used as a test organism to determine the effects of heavy metal exposure on cellular immunity. Insects were separated by sex and exposed to cadmium chloride or mercuric chloride at concentrations of 0, 2.5, and 5.0 ug/g. Exposures consisted of injecting the chemicals into the hemocoel of each insect on days 0, 2, and 4. Hemolymph was collected on day 7 of the study to determine total hemocyte counts, protein levels, and phenoloxidase activity in individual insects. Cadmium chloride decreased the total number of hemocytes in male crickets at 2.5 and 5.0 ug/g andmore » in female crickets at 5.0 ug/g. Protein levels increased in a dose dependent manner in the males but only slightly increased in the females. Mercuric chloride caused a dose-dependent increase in total hemocytes in both male and female crickets. In addition, mercuric chloride caused a dose-dependent increase in protein levels in males but not females.« less

Evolution of Fairness in the Not Quite Ultimatum Game

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ichinose, Genki; Sayama, Hiroki

2014-05-01

The Ultimatum Game (UG) is an economic game where two players (proposer and responder) decide how to split a certain amount of money. While traditional economic theories based on rational decision making predict that the proposer should make a minimal offer and the responder should accept it, human subjects tend to behave more fairly in UG. Previous studies suggested that extra information such as reputation, empathy, or spatial structure is needed for fairness to evolve in UG. Here we show that fairness can evolve without additional information if players make decisions probabilistically and may continue interactions when the offer is rejected, which we call the Not Quite Ultimatum Game (NQUG). Evolutionary simulations of NQUG showed that the probabilistic decision making contributes to the increase of proposers' offer amounts to avoid rejection, while the repetition of the game works to responders' advantage because they can wait until a good offer comes. These simple extensions greatly promote evolution of fairness in both proposers' offers and responders' acceptance thresholds.

Gelatin based bio-films prepared from grey triggerfish' skin influenced by enzymatic pretreatment.

PubMed

Souissi, Nabil; Abdelhedi, Ola; Mbarek, Aïcha; Kammoun, Wassim; Kechaou, Hela; Nasri, Moncef

2017-12-01

Gelatins from grey triggerfish skin were extracted with different methods. The treatment by pepsin (PG) improved the yield of extraction when compared with untreated gelatin (UG) and acidic gelatin (AG). The outputs of gelatins AG, UG and PG, obtained respectively, with acitic acid, glycine buffer and glycine buffer added with 5U of pepsin/g of the skin beforehand treated by alkali, were 6.9%, 7.9% and 9.7%, respectively. The enzymatic treatment of the alkali-pretreated skin of grey triggerfish altered the electrophoresis profile, biophysical, gellification, rheological and thermal properties of the prepared gelatins extracted under acidic condition. However, the untreated gelatin obtained without pepsin exhibited the highest transition and enthaply temperatures. In addition, the properties of the prepared films were interconnected to their microstructure as demonstrated by scanning electron microscopy. Furthermore, films with PG and UG had a regular surface and a more condensed structure, whereas films prepared with AG had rougher surface. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Is costly punishment altruistic? Exploring rejection of unfair offers in the Ultimatum Game in real-world altruists

PubMed Central

Brethel-Haurwitz, Kristin M.; Stoycos, Sarah A.; Cardinale, Elise M.; Huebner, Bryce; Marsh, Abigail A.

2016-01-01

In the Ultimatum Game (UG), incurring a cost to punish inequity is commonly termed altruistic punishment. This behaviour is thought to benefit others if the defector becomes more equitable in future interactions. However, clear connections between punishment in the UG and altruistic behaviours outside the laboratory are lacking. We tested the altruistic punishment hypothesis in a sample of extraordinarily altruistic adults, predicting that if punishing inequity is predictive of altruism more broadly, extraordinary altruists should punish more frequently. Results showed that punishment was not more prevalent in extraordinary altruists than controls. However, a self-reported altruism measure previously linked to peer evaluations but not behaviour, and on which extraordinary altruists and controls did not differ, did predict punishment. These findings support suggestions that altruistic punishment in the UG is better termed costly punishment and may be motivated by social, but not necessarily prosocial, concerns. Results also support prior suggestions that self-reported altruism may not reliably predict altruistic behaviour. PMID:26739364

Is costly punishment altruistic? Exploring rejection of unfair offers in the Ultimatum Game in real-world altruists.

PubMed

Brethel-Haurwitz, Kristin M; Stoycos, Sarah A; Cardinale, Elise M; Huebner, Bryce; Marsh, Abigail A

2016-01-07

In the Ultimatum Game (UG), incurring a cost to punish inequity is commonly termed altruistic punishment. This behaviour is thought to benefit others if the defector becomes more equitable in future interactions. However, clear connections between punishment in the UG and altruistic behaviours outside the laboratory are lacking. We tested the altruistic punishment hypothesis in a sample of extraordinarily altruistic adults, predicting that if punishing inequity is predictive of altruism more broadly, extraordinary altruists should punish more frequently. Results showed that punishment was not more prevalent in extraordinary altruists than controls. However, a self-reported altruism measure previously linked to peer evaluations but not behaviour, and on which extraordinary altruists and controls did not differ, did predict punishment. These findings support suggestions that altruistic punishment in the UG is better termed costly punishment and may be motivated by social, but not necessarily prosocial, concerns. Results also support prior suggestions that self-reported altruism may not reliably predict altruistic behaviour.

Clinical effects of joint application of β-sodium aescinate and mannitol in treating early swelling after upper limb trauma surgery.

PubMed

Wang, Bin; Yang, Ruixiang; Ju, Qing; Liu, Shaofeng; Zhang, Yongchun; Ma, Yong

2016-11-01

The aim of the present study was to examine the clinical merits of joint application of β-sodium aescinate and mannitol for the treatment of early swelling of upper limb trauma after surgery. We verified whether the expression of serum aquaporin 1 (AQP-1) was involved in swelling mechanism. A total of 102 patients with swelling after upper limb trauma surgery were enrolled into the study and divided randomly into 3 groups (n=34 cases per group). Group A was treated with β-sodium aescinate; group B was treated with with mannitol and group C was treated with both β-sodium aescinate and mannitol. The expression level of AQP-1, and clinical effects and complications before and after treatment were compared§. The time of swelling subsidence in group C was significantly shorter than that of the other two groups and differences were statistically significant (P<0.05). The recovery ratio and total efficiency in group C were significantly higher than those in other two groups and differences were statistically significant (P<0.05). Three and seven days after treatment, the AQP-1 levels in group A and group C were decreased and AQP-1 level decreased further with time. Differences of comparison within groups were statistically significant (P<0.05), although the differences of comparison between the groups showed no statistical significance (P>0.05). We also compared the AQP-1 level in group B before and after treatment, and the differences were not statistically significant (P>0.05). When the complication incidence in the 3 groups was compared, no statistical significance was detected (P>0.05). We concluded that the joint use of β-sodium aescinate and mannitol in treating early swelling after upper limb trauma surgery produced satisfactory outcomes. This might be related to reduction of the AQP-1 level.

[Class III surgical patients facilitated by accelerated osteogenic orthodontic treatment].

PubMed

Wu, Jia-qi; Xu, Li; Liang, Cheng; Zou, Wei; Bai, Yun-yang; Jiang, Jiu-hui

2013-10-01

To evaluate the treatment time and the anterior and posterior teeth movement pattern as closing extraction space for the Class III surgical patients facilitated by accelerated osteogenic orthodontic treatment. There were 10 skeletal Class III patients in accelerated osteogenic orthodontic group (AOO) and 10 patients in control group. Upper first premolars were extracted in all patients. After leveling and alignment (T2), corticotomy was performed in the area of maxillary anterior teeth to accelerate space closing.Study models of upper dentition were taken before orthodontic treatment (T1) and after space closing (T3). All the casts were laser scanned, and the distances of the movement of incisors and molars were digitally measured. The distances of tooth movement in two groups were recorded and analyzed. The alignment time between two groups was not statistically significant. The treatment time in AOO group from T2 to T3 was less than that in the control group (less than 9.1 ± 4.1 months). The treatment time in AOO group from T1 to T3 was less than that in the control group (less than 6.3 ± 4.8 months), and the differences were significant (P < 0.01). Average distances of upper incisor movement (D1) in AOO group and control group were (2.89 ± 1.48) and (3.10 ± 0.95) mm, respectively. Average distances of upper first molar movement (D2) in AOO group and control group were (2.17 ± 1.13) and (2.45 ± 1.04) mm, respectively.No statistically significant difference was found between the two groups (P > 0.05). Accelerated osteogenic orthodontic treatment could accelerate space closing in Class III surgical patients and shorten preoperative orthodontic time. There were no influence on the movement pattern of anterior and posterior teeth during pre-surgical orthodontic treatment.

Application and comparison of different implanted ports in malignant tumor patients.

PubMed

Li, Yanhong; Cai, Yonghua; Gan, Xiaoqin; Ye, Xinmei; Ling, Jiayu; Kang, Liang; Ye, Junwen; Zhang, Xingwei; Zhang, Jianwei; Cai, Yue; Hu, Huabin; Huang, Meijin; Deng, Yanhong

2016-09-23

The current study aims to compare the application and convenience of the upper arm port with the other two methods of implanted ports in the jugular vein and the subclavian vein in patients with gastrointestinal cancers. Currently, the standard of practice is placement of central venous access via an internal jugular vein approach. Perioperative time, postoperative complications, and postoperative comfort level in patients receiving an implanted venous port in the upper arm were retrospectively compared to those in the jugular vein and the subclavian vein from April 2013 to November 2014. Three hundred thirty-four patients are recruited for this analysis, consisting of 107 in the upper arm vein group, 70 in the jugular vein group, and 167 in the subclavian vein group. The occurrence of catheter misplacement in the upper arm vein is higher than that in the other two groups (13.1 vs. 2.9 vs. 5.4 %, respectively, P = 0.02), while the other complications in the perioperative period were not significantly different. The occurrence of transfusion obstacle of the upper arm vein group is significantly lower than that of the jugular and subclavian groups (0.9 vs. 7.1 vs. 7.2 %, P = 0.01). The occurrence of thrombus is also lower than that of other two groups (0.9 vs. 4.3 vs. 3.6 %, P = 0.03). Regarding the postoperative comfort, the influences of appearance (0 vs. 7.1 vs. 2.9 %, P = 0.006) and sleep (0.9 vs. 4.2 vs. 10.7 %, P = 0.003) are significantly better than those of the jugular and subclavian vein groups. Compared to the jugular and the subclavian vein groups, the implanted venous port in the upper arm vein has fewer complications and more convenience and comfort, and might be a superior novel choice for patients requiring long-term chemotherapy or parenteral nutrition.

Changing requirements and solutions for unattended ground sensors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prado, Gervasio; Johnson, Robert

2007-10-01

Unattended Ground Sensors (UGS) were first used to monitor Viet Cong activity along the Ho Chi Minh Trail in the 1960's. In the 1980's, significant improvement in the capabilities of UGS became possible with the development of digital signal processors; this led to their use as fire control devices for smart munitions (for example: the Wide Area Mine) and later to monitor the movements of mobile missile launchers. In these applications, the targets of interest were large military vehicles with strong acoustic, seismic and magnetic signatures. Currently, the requirements imposed by new terrorist threats and illegal border crossings have changed the emphasis to the monitoring of light vehicles and foot traffic. These new requirements have changed the way UGS are used. To improve performance against targets with lower emissions, sensors are used in multi-modal arrangements. Non-imaging sensors (acoustic, seismic, magnetic and passive infrared) are now being used principally as activity sensors to cue imagers and remote cameras. The availability of better imaging technology has made imagers the preferred source of "actionable intelligence". Infrared cameras are now based on un-cooled detector-arrays that have made their application in UGS possible in terms of their cost and power consumption. Visible light imagers are also more sensitive extending their utility well beyond twilight. The imagers are equipped with sophisticated image processing capabilities (image enhancement, moving target detection and tracking, image compression). Various commercial satellite services now provide relatively inexpensive long-range communications and the Internet provides fast worldwide access to the data.

Determination of optimal cutoff value to accurately identify glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase-deficient heterozygous female neonates.

PubMed

Miao, Jing-Kun; Chen, Qi-Xiong; Bao, Li-Ming; Huang, Yi; Zhang, Juan; Wan, Ke-Xing; Yi, Jing; Wang, Shi-Yi; Zou, Lin; Li, Ting-Yu

2013-09-23

Conventional screening tests to assess G6PD deficiency use a low cutoff value of 2.10 U/gHb which may not be adequate for detecting females with heterozygous deficiency. The aim of present study was to determine an appropriate cutoff value with increased sensitivity in identifying G6PD-deficient heterozygous females. G6PD activity analysis was performed on 51,747 neonates using semi-quantitative fluorescent spot test. Neonates suspected with G6PD deficiency were further analyzed using quantitatively enzymatic assay and for common G6PD mutations. The cutoff values of G6PD activity were estimated using the receiver operating characteristic curve. Our results demonstrated that using 2.10 U/g Hb as a cutoff, the sensitivity of the assay to detect female neonates with G6PD heterozygous deficiency was 83.3%, as compared with 97.6% using 2.55 U/g Hb as a cutoff. The high cutoff identified 21% (8/38) of the female neonates with partial G6PD deficiency which were not detected with 2.10 U/g Hb. Our study found that high cutoffs, 2.35 and 2.55 U/g Hb, would increase assay's sensitivity to identify male and female G6PD deficiency neonates, respectively. We established a reliable cutoff value of G6PD activity with increased sensitivity in identifying female newborns with partial G6PD deficiency. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Adipose stem cells’ antagonism in glycosylation of D-galactose-induced skin aging of nude mice and its skin recovery function

PubMed Central

Wang, Haiying; Wei, Shuyue; Xue, Xinxin; You, Yuntian; Ma, Qiang

2016-01-01

This study aims to discuss adipose stem cells’ (ASCs) antagonism in glycosylation of D-galactose-induced skin aging of nude mice and its skin recovery function; the study also aims to explore a new mechanism of anti-aging to provide clinical anti-aging therapy with new thoughts and methods. We selected 40 healthy specific pathogen-free (SPF) nude mice and divided them randomly into four groups which were: blank control group; D-galactose + phosphate buffer saline (PBS) group; D-galactose + ASCs treatment group; and D-galactose + aminoguanidine (AG) group. Results showed that the superoxide dismutase (SOD) level of mice in the D-galactose-induced model group (87.15 ± 4.95 U/g) decreased significantly compared with that of control group (146.21 ± 4.76 U/g), while malonaldehyde (MDA) level of mice in D-galactose induced model group (11.12 ± 2.08 nmol/mg) increased significantly compared with that of control group (5.46 ± 2.05 nmol/mg) (P <0.05); thus D-galactose induced sub-acutely aging mice models were duplicated successfully. Results also indicated that transplantation of ASCs could reverse expression of aging-related biomarkers such as MDA, SOD, and advanced glycosylation end products (AGEs); hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining showed that thickness of the dermis layer as well as the collagen content of mice in the D-galactose-induced model group increased significantly after ASC transplantation compared with that of control group. In addition, immunohistochemical assay showed that expression quantity of CD31 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) of mice in the D-galactose-induced model group increased significantly after ASC transplantation compared with that of control group. In conclusion, ASCs can trace cell distribution successfully through bioluminescence, and they survive for a short time in the skin after transplantation, which provides a basis for the application of ASC transplantation in clinical practices. Moreover, ASCs can control glycosylation level of D-galactose-induced skin aging of nude mice, reverse expression of aging-related biomarkers as well as restrain formation of advanced glycation end products, which are similar to the effects of AG inhibitors of advanced glycation end products. Thus, ASCs can prevent glycosylation-induced skin aging as well as recover functions of skin. PMID:26916459

Adipose stem cells' antagonism in glycosylation of D-galactose-induced skin aging of nude mice and its skin recovery function.

PubMed

Wang, Haiying; Wei, Shuyue; Xue, Xinxin; You, Yuntian; Ma, Qiang

2016-09-01

This study aims to discuss adipose stem cells' (ASCs) antagonism in glycosylation of D-galactose-induced skin aging of nude mice and its skin recovery function; the study also aims to explore a new mechanism of anti-aging to provide clinical anti-aging therapy with new thoughts and methods. We selected 40 healthy specific pathogen-free (SPF) nude mice and divided them randomly into four groups which were: blank control group; D-galactose + phosphate buffer saline (PBS) group; D-galactose + ASCs treatment group; and D-galactose + aminoguanidine (AG) group. Results showed that the superoxide dismutase (SOD) level of mice in the D-galactose-induced model group (87.15 ± 4.95 U/g) decreased significantly compared with that of control group (146.21 ± 4.76 U/g), while malonaldehyde (MDA) level of mice in D-galactose induced model group (11.12 ± 2.08 nmol/mg) increased significantly compared with that of control group (5.46 ± 2.05 nmol/mg) (P <0.05); thus D-galactose induced sub-acutely aging mice models were duplicated successfully. Results also indicated that transplantation of ASCs could reverse expression of aging-related biomarkers such as MDA, SOD, and advanced glycosylation end products (AGEs); hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining showed that thickness of the dermis layer as well as the collagen content of mice in the D-galactose-induced model group increased significantly after ASC transplantation compared with that of control group. In addition, immunohistochemical assay showed that expression quantity of CD31 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) of mice in the D-galactose-induced model group increased significantly after ASC transplantation compared with that of control group. In conclusion, ASCs can trace cell distribution successfully through bioluminescence, and they survive for a short time in the skin after transplantation, which provides a basis for the application of ASC transplantation in clinical practices. Moreover, ASCs can control glycosylation level of D-galactose-induced skin aging of nude mice, reverse expression of aging-related biomarkers as well as restrain formation of advanced glycation end products, which are similar to the effects of AG inhibitors of advanced glycation end products. Thus, ASCs can prevent glycosylation-induced skin aging as well as recover functions of skin. © The Author(s) 2016.

Determining the Effect of Gutkha on Serum Levels of Vitamin B12 and Folic Acid as Compared to Smoking among Chronic Periodontitis Subjects : A Cross-Sectional Study

PubMed Central

Warad, Shivaraj; Kalburgi, Nagaraj B; Kalburgi, Veena C; Koregol, Arati C; Patanashetti, Jyoti; Rao, Subramaniam; Kokatnur, M. Vijayalaxmi

2014-01-01

Background: Periodontitis, being a common inflammatory disease has a multifactorial origin , with smoking and gutkha as few of the causative entities. The role of smoking as a risk factor for periodontitis is been well documented in literature. Cigarette smoke also affects vitamin B12 and folic acid mechanisms. Nutritionally derived vitamin B12 occurs mainly as either hydroxycobalamin or deoxyadenosycobalmin. Folic acid is also heat sensitive and water soluble, closely linked to vitamin B12 in its metabolism. However, effect of smokeless tobacco in form of gutkha on serum levels of vitamin B12 and folic acid is yet to be explored. Aims and Objectives: To estimate and correlate serum vitamin B12 (VB12) and folic acid (FA) levels among periodontally healthy subjects and Chronic Periodontitis (CP) subjects with habit of smoking and gutkha chewing. Materials and Methods: The study included 111 subjects ranging in age from 18 to 60 y. Participants were divided into four groups: 30 healthy subjects (Group I), 29 subjects with CP (Group II), 25 smokers with CP (Group III) and 27 gutkha chewers with CP (Group IV). Clinical parameters included pocket probing depth (PPD), clinical attachment level (CAL) & gingival index (GI) following which VB12 and FA levels were estimated through UV-spectrophotometry method and data was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Scientists software, Mann-Whitney U-test and Pearson correlation coefficient. p-values less than 0.05 were considered as significant. Results : Pairwise comparison by Mann-Whitney U-test showed an increase in the serum VB12 in Group IV when compared to Group I (p=0.01) and Group II (p=0.01). Although serum FA levels were found to be low in Group III (7.61 ug/ml) & Group IV (8.64 ug/ml), Group III was found to be statistically significant (P=0.046). The clinical parameters GI, PPD and CAL among the four groups of patients were also statistically significant (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The study results suggested that among the patients with periodontal disease, serum VB12 levels are directly related while serum FA levels are inversely related to inflammation and tissue destruction in periodontium as occurred in Group IV. PMID:25654040

The Uganda version of the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI). Part I: Cross-cultural adaptation.

PubMed

Kakooza-Mwesige, A; Tumwine, J K; Forssberg, H; Eliasson, A-C

2018-03-12

The Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI) was developed and standardized to measure functional performance in American children. So far, no published study has examined the use of the PEDI in sub-Saharan Africa. This study describes the adaptation, translation, and validation process undertaken to develop a culturally relevant PEDI for Uganda (PEDI-UG). The cross-cultural adaptation and translation of the PEDI was performed in a series of steps. A project manager and a technical advisory group were involved in all steps of adaptation, translation, cognitive debriefing, and revision. Translation and back-translation between English and Luganda were performed by professional translators. Cognitive debriefing of two subsequent adapted revisions was performed by a field-testing team on a total of 75 caregivers of children aged 6 months to 7.5 years. The PEDI-UG was established in both English (the official language) and Luganda (a local language) and comprises 185 items. Revisions entailed deleting irrelevant items, modifying wording, inserting new items, and incorporating local examples while retaining the meaning of the original PEDI. Item statements were rephrased as questions. Seven new items were inserted and 19 items deleted. To accommodate major differences in living conditions between rural and urban areas, 10 alternative items were provided. The PEDI-UG is to be used to measure functional limitations in both clinical practice and research, in order to assess and evaluate rehabilitative procedures in children with developmental delay and disability in Uganda. In this study, we take the first step by translating and adapting the original PEDI version to the culture and life conditions in both rural and urban Uganda. In subsequent studies, the tool's psychometric properties will be examined, and the tool will be tested in children with developmental delay and disability. © 2018 The Authors. Child: Care, Health and Development Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Deficient Repair of Particulate Hexavalent chromium-Induced DNA Double Strand Breaks Leads To Neoplastic Transformation

PubMed Central

Xie, Hong; Wise, Sandra S.; Wise, John. P.

2008-01-01

Hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) is a potent respiratory toxicant and carcinogen. The most carcinogenic forms of Cr(VI) are the particulate salts such as lead chromate, which deposit and persist in the respiratory tract after inhalation. We demonstrate here that particulate chromate induces DNA double strand breaks in human lung cells with 0.1, 0.5, and 1 ug/cm2 lead chromate inducing 1.5, 2 and 5 relative increases in the percent of DNA in the comet tail, respectively. These lesions are repaired within 24 h and require Mre11 expression for their repair. Particulate chromate also caused Mre11 to co-localize with gamma-H2A.X and ATM. Failure to repair these breaks with Mre11 induced neoplastic transformation including loss of cell contact inhibition and anchorage independent growth. A 5-day exposure to lead chromate induced loss of cell contact inhibition in a concentration-dependent manner with 0, 0.1, 0.5 and 1 ug/cm2 lead chromate inducing 1, 78 and 103 foci in 20 dishes, respectively. These data indicate that Mre11 is critical to repairing particulate Cr(VI)-induced double strand breaks and preventing Cr(VI)-induced neoplastic transformation. PMID:18023605

Effects of low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation and neuromuscular electrical stimulation on upper extremity motor recovery in the early period after stroke: a preliminary study.

PubMed

Tosun, Aliye; Türe, Sabiha; Askin, Ayhan; Yardimci, Engin Ugur; Demirdal, Secil Umit; Kurt Incesu, Tülay; Tosun, Ozgur; Kocyigit, Hikmet; Akhan, Galip; Gelal, Fazıl Mustafa

2017-07-01

To assess the efficacy of inhibitory repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) on upper extremity motor function in patients with acute/subacute ischemic stroke. Twenty-five ischemic acute/subacute stroke subjects were enrolled in this randomized controlled trial. Experimental group 1 received low frequency (LF) rTMS to the primary motor cortex of the unaffected side + physical therapy (PT) including activities to improve strength, flexibility, transfers, posture, balance, coordination, and activities of daily living, mainly focusing on upper limb movements; experimental group 2 received the same protocol combined with NMES to hand extensor muscles; and the control group received only PT. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scan was used to evaluate the activation or inhibition of the affected and unaffected primary motor cortex. No adverse effect was reported. Most of the clinical outcome scores improved significantly in all groups, however no statistically significant difference was found between groups due to the small sample sizes. The highest percent improvement scores were observed in TMS + NMES group (varying between 48 and 99.3%) and the lowest scores in control group (varying between 13.1 and 28.1%). Hand motor recovery was significant in both experimental groups while it did not change in control group. Some motor cortex excitability changes were also observed in fMRI. LF-rTMS with or without NMES seems to facilitate the motor recovery in the paretic hand of patients with acute/subacute ischemic stroke. TMS or the combination of TMS + NMES may be a promising additional therapy in upper limb motor training. Further studies with larger numbers of patients are needed to establish their effectiveness in upper limb motor rehabilitation of stroke.

Vancomycin added to the wash solution of the cell-saver. Effect on bacterial contamination.

PubMed

Perez-Ferrer, A; Gredilla-Díaz, E; de Vicente-Sánchez, J; Navarro-Suay, R; Gilsanz-Rodríguez, F

2017-04-01

The aim of this study is to test whether the addition of a low-dose of antibiotic (vancomycin) to the wash solution (saline) of the cell-saver reduces the incidence of bacterial contamination of the autologous red blood cell (RBCs) concentrate recovered. Experimental, randomized, double-blind, parallel group study performed on 20 consecutive patients scheduled for posterior spinal fusion surgery. Intraoperative bleeding was processed through a cell-saver: HaemoLite ® 2+, in which the RBCs were washed according to randomization group, with saline (control group) or saline+10μg/ml -1 vancomycin (vanco group). Data regarding age, weight, processed and recovered volume, blood count, blood culture, and vancomycin concentration in RBCs concentrates obtained and incidence of fever after reinfusion were collected. Processed volume was 843±403ml and recovered volume 121±29ml, with haemoglobin concentration 10.4±5.0g/dl -1 and haematocrit 29.1±15.9% (mean±SD). Recovered RBC concentrate cultures were positive for coagulase-negative Staphylococcus in 5 cases (50%) of the control group while all cultures were negative in the vanco group (P=.016). The difference between the theoretical concentration of vancomycin administered and the concentration determined in the recovered RBC concentrate was 1.31μg/ml -1 (95% CI 1.19 to 1.43; P=.074). The addition of vancomycin at a concentration of 10ug/ml -1 to the wash solution of the cell-saver achieved similar concentrations in the autologous blood concentrate recovered allowing for bacterial removal, with negative blood cultures in all cases. Copyright © 2016 Sociedad Española de Anestesiología, Reanimación y Terapéutica del Dolor. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Grant UG1CA189873 | Division of Cancer Prevention

Cancer.gov

The Division of Cancer Prevention (DCP) conducts and supports research to determine a person's risk of cancer and to find ways to reduce the risk. This knowledge is critical to making progress against cancer because risk varies over the lifespan as genetic and epigenetic changes can transform healthy tissue into invasive cancer.

Grant UG1CA189822 | Division of Cancer Prevention

Cancer.gov

The Division of Cancer Prevention (DCP) conducts and supports research to determine a person's risk of cancer and to find ways to reduce the risk. This knowledge is critical to making progress against cancer because risk varies over the lifespan as genetic and epigenetic changes can transform healthy tissue into invasive cancer.

Grant UG1CA189858 | Division of Cancer Prevention

Cancer.gov

The Division of Cancer Prevention (DCP) conducts and supports research to determine a person's risk of cancer and to find ways to reduce the risk. This knowledge is critical to making progress against cancer because risk varies over the lifespan as genetic and epigenetic changes can transform healthy tissue into invasive cancer.

Grant UG1CA189804 | Division of Cancer Prevention

Cancer.gov

The Division of Cancer Prevention (DCP) conducts and supports research to determine a person's risk of cancer and to find ways to reduce the risk. This knowledge is critical to making progress against cancer because risk varies over the lifespan as genetic and epigenetic changes can transform healthy tissue into invasive cancer.

Legubicin a Tumor-activated Prodrug for Breast Cancer Therapy

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-04-01

slides were incubated with a cocktail of first primary antibodies for overnight (biotin-conjugeted rat anti-mouse CD68 at 1:100 dilution and sheep anti... sheep (green) (Vector Laboratories) for 40 minutes. Nuclear staining was performed DEPI (10ug/ml) for 10 minutes, then mount cover slip with anti-fade

Grant UG1CA189867 | Division of Cancer Prevention

Cancer.gov

The Division of Cancer Prevention (DCP) conducts and supports research to determine a person's risk of cancer and to find ways to reduce the risk. This knowledge is critical to making progress against cancer because risk varies over the lifespan as genetic and epigenetic changes can transform healthy tissue into invasive cancer.

Grant UG1CA189863 | Division of Cancer Prevention

Cancer.gov

The Division of Cancer Prevention (DCP) conducts and supports research to determine a person's risk of cancer and to find ways to reduce the risk. This knowledge is critical to making progress against cancer because risk varies over the lifespan as genetic and epigenetic changes can transform healthy tissue into invasive cancer.

Grant UG1CA189870 | Division of Cancer Prevention

Cancer.gov

The Division of Cancer Prevention (DCP) conducts and supports research to determine a person's risk of cancer and to find ways to reduce the risk. This knowledge is critical to making progress against cancer because risk varies over the lifespan as genetic and epigenetic changes can transform healthy tissue into invasive cancer.

Grant UG1CA189862 | Division of Cancer Prevention

Cancer.gov

The Division of Cancer Prevention (DCP) conducts and supports research to determine a person's risk of cancer and to find ways to reduce the risk. This knowledge is critical to making progress against cancer because risk varies over the lifespan as genetic and epigenetic changes can transform healthy tissue into invasive cancer.

Grant UG1CA189809 | Division of Cancer Prevention

Cancer.gov

The Division of Cancer Prevention (DCP) conducts and supports research to determine a person's risk of cancer and to find ways to reduce the risk. This knowledge is critical to making progress against cancer because risk varies over the lifespan as genetic and epigenetic changes can transform healthy tissue into invasive cancer.

Grant UG1CA189821 | Division of Cancer Prevention

Cancer.gov

The Division of Cancer Prevention (DCP) conducts and supports research to determine a person's risk of cancer and to find ways to reduce the risk. This knowledge is critical to making progress against cancer because risk varies over the lifespan as genetic and epigenetic changes can transform healthy tissue into invasive cancer.