Proteomic peptide profiling for preemptive diagnosis of acute graft-versus-host disease after allogeneic stem cell transplantation.

PubMed

Weissinger, E M; Metzger, J; Dobbelstein, C; Wolff, D; Schleuning, M; Kuzmina, Z; Greinix, H; Dickinson, A M; Mullen, W; Kreipe, H; Hamwi, I; Morgan, M; Krons, A; Tchebotarenko, I; Ihlenburg-Schwarz, D; Dammann, E; Collin, M; Ehrlich, S; Diedrich, H; Stadler, M; Eder, M; Holler, E; Mischak, H; Krauter, J; Ganser, A

2014-04-01

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is one curative treatment for hematological malignancies, but is compromised by life-threatening complications, such as severe acute graft-versus-host disease (aGvHD). Prediction of severe aGvHD as early as possible is crucial to allow timely initiation of treatment. Here we report on a multicentre validation of an aGvHD-specific urinary proteomic classifier (aGvHD_MS17) in 423 patients. Samples (n=1106) were collected prospectively between day +7 and day +130 and analyzed using capillary electrophoresis coupled on-line to mass spectrometry. Integration of aGvHD_MS17 analysis with demographic and clinical variables using a logistic regression model led to correct classification of patients developing severe aGvHD 14 days before any clinical signs with 82.4% sensitivity and 77.3% specificity. Multivariate regression analysis showed that aGvHD_MS17 positivity was the only strong predictor for aGvHD grade III or IV (P<0.0001). The classifier consists of 17 peptides derived from albumin, β2-microglobulin, CD99, fibronectin and various collagen α-chains, indicating inflammation, activation of T cells and changes in the extracellular matrix as early signs of GvHD-induced organ damage. This study is currently the largest demonstration of accurate and investigator-independent prediction of patients at risk for severe aGvHD, thus allowing preemptive therapy based on proteomic profiling.

Estimation of Right-Lobe Graft Weight From Computed Tomographic Volumetry for Living Donor Liver Transplantation.

PubMed

Yang, X; Chu, C W; Yang, J D; Yang, K H; Yu, H C; Cho, B H; You, H

2017-03-01

The objective of the study was to establish a right-lobe graft weight (GW) estimation formula for living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) from right-lobe graft volume without veins (GV w/o_veins ), including portal vein and hepatic vein measured by computed tomographic (CT) volumetry, and to compare its estimation accuracy with those of existing formulas. Right-lobe GW estimation formulas established with the use of graft volume with veins (GV w_veins ) sacrifice accuracy because GW measured intra-operatively excludes the weight of blood in the veins. Right-lobe GW estimation formulas have been established with the use of right-lobe GV w/o_veins , but a more accurate formula must be developed. The present study developed right-lobe GW estimation formulas based on GV w/o_veins as well as GV w_veins , using 40 cases of Korean donors: GW = 29.1 + 0.943 × GV w/o_veins (adjusted R 2  = 0.94) and GW = 74.7 + 0.773 × GV w_veins (adjusted R 2  = 0.87). The proposed GW estimation formulas were compared with existing GV w_veins - and GV w/o_veins -based models, using 43 cases additionally obtained from two medical centers for cross-validation. The GV w/o_veins -based formula developed in the present study was most preferred (absolute error = 21.5 ± 16.5 g and percentage of absolute error = 3.0 ± 2.3%). The GV w/o_veins -based formula is preferred to the GV w_veins -based formula in GW estimation. Accurate CT volumetry and alignment between planned and actual surgical cutting lines are crucial in the establishment of a better GW estimation formula. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

NASA GPM GV Science Implementation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Petersen, W. A.

2009-01-01

Pre-launch algorithm development & post-launch product evaluation: The GPM GV paradigm moves beyond traditional direct validation/comparison activities by incorporating improved algorithm physics & model applications (end-to-end validation) in the validation process. Three approaches: 1) National Network (surface): Operational networks to identify and resolve first order discrepancies (e.g., bias) between satellite and ground-based precipitation estimates. 2) Physical Process (vertical column): Cloud system and microphysical studies geared toward testing and refinement of physically-based retrieval algorithms. 3) Integrated (4-dimensional): Integration of satellite precipitation products into coupled prediction models to evaluate strengths/limitations of satellite precipitation producers.

A Two-Echelon Cooperated Routing Problem for a Ground Vehicle and Its Carried Unmanned Aerial Vehicle.

PubMed

Luo, Zhihao; Liu, Zhong; Shi, Jianmai

2017-05-17

In this paper, a two-echelon cooperated routing problem for the ground vehicle (GV) and its carried unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is investigated, where the GV travels on the road network and its UAV travels in areas beyond the road to visit a number of targets unreached by the GV. In contrast to the classical two-echelon routing problem, the UAV has to launch and land on the GV frequently to change or charge its battery while the GV is moving on the road network. A new 0-1 integer programming model is developed to formulate the problem, where the constraints on the spatial and temporal cooperation of GV and UAV routes are included. Two heuristics are proposed to solve the model: the first heuristic (H1) constructs a complete tour for all targets and splits it by GV routes, while the second heuristic (H2) constructs the GV tour and assigns UAV flights to it. Random instances with six different sizes (25-200 targets, 12-80 rendezvous nodes) are used to test the algorithms. Computational results show that H1 performs slightly better than H2, while H2 uses less time and is more stable.

Improving the Performance of the Granulosis Virus of Codling Moth (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) by Adding the Yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae with Sugar.

PubMed

Knight, Alan L; Basoalto, Esteban; Witzgall, Peter

2015-04-01

Studies were conducted with the codling moth granulosis virus (CpGV) to evaluate whether adding the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae Meyen ex E. C. Hansen with brown cane sugar could improve larval control of Cydia pomonella (L.). Larval mortalities in dipped-apple bioassays with S. cerevisiae or sugar alone were not significantly different from the water control. The addition of S. cerevisiae but not sugar with CpGV significantly increased larval mortality compared with CpGV alone. The combination of S. cerevisiae and sugar with CpGV significantly increased larval mortality compared with CpGV plus either additive alone. The addition of S. cerevisiae improved the efficacy of CpGV similarly to the use of the yeast Metschnikowia pulcherrima (isolated from field-collected larvae). The proportion of uninjured fruit in field trials was significantly increased with the addition of S. cerevisiae and sugar to CpGV compared with CpGV alone only in year 1, and from the controls in both years. In comparison, larval mortality was significantly increased in both years with the addition of S. cerevisiae and sugar with CpGV compared with CpGV alone or from the controls. The numbers of overwintering larvae on trees was significantly reduced from the control following a seasonal program of CpGV plus S. cerevisiae and sugar. The addition of a microencapsulated formulation of pear ester did not improve the performance of CpGV or CpGV plus S. cerevisiae and sugar. These data suggest that yeasts can enhance the effectiveness of the biological control agent CpGV, in managing and maintaining codling moth at low densities. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Entomological Society of America 2015. This work is written by US Government employees and is in the public domain in the US.

A Two-Echelon Cooperated Routing Problem for a Ground Vehicle and Its Carried Unmanned Aerial Vehicle

PubMed Central

Luo, Zhihao; Liu, Zhong; Shi, Jianmai

2017-01-01

In this paper, a two-echelon cooperated routing problem for the ground vehicle (GV) and its carried unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is investigated, where the GV travels on the road network and its UAV travels in areas beyond the road to visit a number of targets unreached by the GV. In contrast to the classical two-echelon routing problem, the UAV has to launch and land on the GV frequently to change or charge its battery while the GV is moving on the road network. A new 0–1 integer programming model is developed to formulate the problem, where the constraints on the spatial and temporal cooperation of GV and UAV routes are included. Two heuristics are proposed to solve the model: the first heuristic (H1) constructs a complete tour for all targets and splits it by GV routes, while the second heuristic (H2) constructs the GV tour and assigns UAV flights to it. Random instances with six different sizes (25–200 targets, 12–80 rendezvous nodes) are used to test the algorithms. Computational results show that H1 performs slightly better than H2, while H2 uses less time and is more stable. PMID:28513552

Introducing GV : The Spacecraft Geometry Visualizer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Throop, Henry B.; Stern, S. A.; Parker, J. W.; Gladstone, G. R.; Weaver, H. A.

2009-12-01

GV (Geometry Visualizer) is a web-based program for planning spacecraft observations. GV is the primary planning tool used by the New Horizons science team to plan the encounter with Pluto. GV creates accurate 3D images and movies showing the position of planets, satellites, and stars as seen from an observer on a spacecraft or other body. NAIF SPICE routines are used throughout for accurate calculations of all geometry. GV includes 3D geometry rendering of all planetary bodies, lon/lat grids, ground tracks, albedo maps, stellar magnitudes, types and positions from HD and Tycho-2 catalogs, and spacecraft FOVs. It generates still images, animations, and geometric data tables. GV is accessed through an easy-to-use and flexible web interface. The web-based interface allows for uniform use from any computer and assures that all users are accessing up-to-date versions of the code and kernel libraries. Compared with existing planning tools, GV is often simpler, faster, lower-cost, and more flexible. GV was developed at SwRI to support the New Horizons mission to Pluto. It has been subsequently expanded to support multiple other missions in flight or under development, including Cassini, Messenger, Rosetta, LRO, and Juno. The system can be used to plan Earth-based observations such as occultations to high precision, and was used by the public to help plan 'Kodak Moment' observations of the Pluto system from New Horizons. Potential users of GV may contact the author for more information. Development of GV has been funded by the New Horizons, Rosetta, and LRO missions.

Definition of International GPM GV Research Program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, Eric A.

2003-01-01

The Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) Mission will consist of a constellation of rain-measuring satellites, the main member of which (the core satellite) will serve as the measurement reference to the other members of the constellation. The core satellite is being developed jointly by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the newly-named Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA -- previously NASDA) along with its government partner, the Communications Research Laboratory (CRL). The GPM mission was proposed as a follow-up mission to the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) by both NASA and NASDA based on the unparalleled scientific success of TRMM, and has recently been joined by the European Space Agency (ESA) via its formulation of the European GPM mission (i.e., EGPM). GPM is an ambitious mission designed to produce accurate and frequent global observations of precipitation (both rain and snow) made possible by replacing the TRMM satellite with the new core satellite carrying an advanced radar-radiometer system, and serving as the centerpiece for the constellation of some eight (8) additional satellites being provided through international cooperation. The core satellite is to be flown up to high latitudes (inclined some 65-70 degrees), and will carry a Ku/Ka-band, nadir-scanning, dual-frequency precipitation radar (DPR) that is being developed by JAXA and CRL, along with a large aperture, extended frequency-range, conically-scanning passive microwave radiometer being developed by NASA and its industrial partners. Each constellation satellite will also carry some type of multi-channel passive microwave radiometer (as well as a multi-beam Ka-band radar in the case of EGPM) whose rain estimates will be calibrated and referenced to those made by the core satellite, producing for the first time fully-global, continuous, and bias-free precipitation datasets. GPM data will be delivered in near-realtime, taking a major step toward the operational use of precipitation information for model initialization and data assimilation in a number of application areas such as hazardous weather forecasting, flood warning, fresh water resource assessment, and crop growth prediction. In addition, GPM data will complement the now-existing global temperature record, allowing for improved assessments of climate change, particularly those processes in which the global water cycle both forces and responds to climatic drifts in global temperature conditions. A foremost element of this international constellation mission is a parallel international ground validation (GV) network. This GV network is needed to determine uncertainties in the rain retrievals, critical for application of the retrieval information in weather and hydrometeorological modeling and climate diagnostics, as well as assurances that the satellite retrievals of surface rainfall are consistent with those actually measured at the surface. The key aspects of this network is that it must be worldwide and created through the GPM partnership process. Therefore the network will consist of a confederation of government agencies, academic organizations, private institutions, and individual scientists from a collection of nations who have initiated the process by gathering in Abingdon to develop the fundamentals of the international GPM GV research programme. Therefore in keeping with our responsibilities as the front-runners of the programme, the main objectives of this workshop are: (1) to present and share opinions on interests, perspectives, and concerns about GPM GV research; (2) to examine the conceptual and/or planned GPM GV site templates from NASA, NASDA, ESA, and other partners; (3) to define the main scientific objectives of the international GPM GV research programme; (4) to formulate a preliminary set of international GPM GV science and measurement requirements; and (5) to convene a Steering Committee to aid the organization of the GPM GV program, to document its science implementation plans, and to aid planning for follow-up GPM GV meetings.

A preliminary candidate genotype-intermediate phenotype study of satiation and gastric motor function in obesity.

PubMed

Papathanasopoulos, Athanasios; Camilleri, Michael; Carlson, Paula J; Vella, Adrian; Nord, Sara J Linker; Burton, Duane D; Odunsi, Suwebatu T; Zinsmeister, Alan R

2010-06-01

Stomach motility contributes significantly to fullness sensation while eating and cessation of food intake in humans. Genes controlling adrenergic and serotonergic mechanisms (ADRA2A, GNB3, and SLC6A4) affect gastric emptying (GE), volume (GV), and satiation. Fat mass and obesity-associated gene (FTO) is linked with satiety. Our aim was to examine the association of these candidate genes with stomach functions that signal postprandial fullness: GE, GV, and maximum tolerated volume (MTV). These biomarkers constitute a component of the intermediate phenotype of satiation. A total of 62 overweight or obese participants underwent genotyping of the candidate genes, and validated measurements of GE of solids and liquids by scintigraphy, fasting and postprandial change in GV by SPECT (single photon emission computed tomography), and MTV by nutrient drink test. These markers of satiation were compared for 38 genetic variants in ADRA2A, ADR2C, ADRB3, uncoupling protein (UCP)-2 and -3, GNB3, FTO, and SLC6A4 using a recessive model of inheritance. ADRA2A, ADR2C, UCP-3, GNB3, and FTO loci were significantly associated with the intermediate phenotype markers of satiation: ADR2C (Ins-Del322_325) with accelerated GE; GNB3 (rs1047776) with delayed GE; ADRA2A (rs491589 and rs553668) and GNB3 (rs2269355, rs10849527, and rs3759348) with decreased postprandial GV; ADRA2A (rs3750625) and GNB3 (rs4963517 and rs1129649) with increased postprandial GV; UCP-3 (rs1685356) with increased MTV, and FTO (rs9939609) decreased MTV. Genetic susceptibility to postprandial satiation can be identified through intermediate phenotype markers. With independent validation, these markers may guide patient selection of weight-loss therapies directed at gastric motor functions.

Consistent Measurement and Physical Character of the DSD: Disdrometer to Satellite

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Petersen, Walt; Thurai, Merhala; Gatlin, Patrick; Tokay, Ali; Morris, Bob; Wolff, David; Pippitt, Jason; Marks, David; Berendes, Todd

2017-01-01

Objective: Validate GPM (Global Precipitation Measurement) Drop Size Distribution Retrievals: Drop size distributions (DSD) are critical to GPM DPR (Dual-frequency Precipitation Radar)-based rainfall retrievals; NASA GPM Science Requirements stipulate that the GPM Core observatory radar estimation of D (sub m) (mean diameter) shall be within plus or minus 0.5 millimeters of GV (Ground Validation); GV translates disdrometer measurements to polarimetric radar-based DSD and precipitation type retrievals (e.g., convective vs. stratiform (C/S)) for coincident match-up to GPM core overpasses; How well do we meet the requirement across product versions, rain types (e.g., C/S partitioning), and rain rates (heavy, light) and is behavior physically and internally consistent?

Comparisons of Instantaneous TRMM Ground Validation and Satellite Rain Rate Estimates at Different Spatial Scales

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wolff, David B.; Fisher, Brad L.

2007-01-01

This study provides a comprehensive inter-comparison of instantaneous rain estimates from the two rain sensors aboard the TRMM satellite with ground data from thee designated Ground Validation Sites: Kwajalein Atoll, Melbourne, Florida and Houston, Texas. The satellite rain retrievals utilize rain observations collected by the TRMM microwave imager (TMI) and the Precipitation Radar (PR) aboard the TRMM satellite. Three standard instantaneous rain products are the generated from the rain information retrieved from the satellite using the TMI, PR and Combined (COM) rain algorithms. The validation data set used in this study was obtained from instantaneous rain rates inferred from ground radars at each GV site. The first comparison used 0.5(sup 0) x 0.5(sup 0) gridded data obtained from the TRMM 3668 product, and similarly gridded GV data obtained from ground-based radars. The comparisons were made at the same spatial and temporal scales in order to eliminate sampling biases in our comparisons. An additional comparison was made by averaging rain rates for the PR, COM and GV estimates within each TMI footprint (approx. 150 square kilometers). For this analysis, unconditional mean rain rates from PR, COM and GV estimates were calculated within each TMI footprint that was observed within 100 km from the respective GV site (and also observed by the PR). This analysis used all the available matching data from the period 1999-2004, representing a sample size of over 50,000 footprints for each site. In the first analysis our results showed that all of the respective rain rate estimates agree well, with some exceptions. The more salient differences were associated with heavy rain events in which one or more of the algorithms failed to properly retrieve these extreme events. Also, it appears that there is a preferred mode of precipitation for TMI rain rates at or near 2 mm per hour over the ocean. This mode was noted over ocean areas of Melbourne, Florida and Kwajalein, Republic of the Marshall Islands, and is shown to exist in TRMM tropical-global ocean areas as well. Further research by algorithm developers is needed to explain or justify the seemingly errant observed probability distributions.

Time-lapse cinematography study of the germinal vesicle behaviour in mouse primary oocytes treated with activators of protein kinases A and C.

PubMed

Alexandre, H; Mulnard, J

1988-12-01

A passive erratic movement of the germinal vesicle (GV), already visible in small incompetent oocytes, is followed by an active scalloping of the nuclear membrane soon before GV breakdown (GVBD) in cultured competent oocytes. Maturation can be inhibited by activators of protein kinase A (PK-A) and protein kinase C (PK-C). Our time-lapse cinematography analysis allowed us to describe an unexpected behaviour of the GV when PK-C, but not PK-A, is activated: GV undergoes a displacement toward the cortex according to the same biological clock which triggers the programmed translocation of the spindle in control oocytes. It is concluded that, when oocytes become committed to undergo maturation, the cytoplasm acquires a PK-A-controlled "centrifugal displacement property" which is not restricted to the spindle.

The changes of gene expression profiling between segmental vitiligo, generalized vitiligo and healthy individual.

PubMed

Wang, Ping; Li, Yong; Nie, Huiqiong; Zhang, Xiaoyan; Shao, Qiongyan; Hou, Xiuli; Xu, Wen; Hong, Weisong; Xu, Aie

2016-10-01

Vitiligo is a common acquired depigmentation skin disease characterized by loss or dysfunction of melanocytes within the skin lesion, but its pathologenesis is far from lucid. The gene expression profiling of segmental vitiligo (SV) and generalized vitiligo (GV) need further investigation. To better understanding the common and distinct factors, especially in the view of gene expression profile, which were involved in the diseases development and maintenance of segmental vitiligo (SV) and generalized vitiligo (GV). Peripheral bloods were collected from SV, GV and healthy individual (HI), followed by leukocytes separation and total RNA extraction. The high-throughput whole genome expression microarrays were used to assay the gene expression profiles between HI, SV and GV. Bioinformatics tools were employed to annotated the biological function of differently expressed genes. Quantitative PCR assay was used to validate the gene expression of array. Compared to HI, 239 over-expressed genes and 175 down-expressed genes detected in SV, 688 over-expressed genes and 560 down-expressed genes were found in GV, following the criteria of log2 (fold change)≥0.585 and P value<0.05. In these differently expressed genes, 60 over-expressed genes and 60 down-expressed genes had similar tendency in SV and GV. Compared to SV, 223 genes were up regulated and 129 genes were down regulated in GV. In the SV with HI as control, the differently expressed genes were mainly involved in the adaptive immune response, cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, chemokine signaling, focal adhesion and sphingolipid metabolism. The differently expressed genes between GV and HI were mainly involved in the innate immune, autophagy, apoptosis, melanocyte biology, ubiquitin mediated proteolysis and tyrosine metabolism, which was different from SV. While the differently expressed genes between SV and GV were mainly involved in the metabolism pathway of purine, pyrimidine, glycolysis and sphingolipid. Above results suggested that they not only shared part bio-process and signal pathway, but more important, they utilized different biological mechanism in their pathogenesis and maintenance. Our results provide a comprehensive view on the gene expression profiling change between SV and GV especially in the side of leukocytes, and may facilitate the future study on their molecular mechanism and theraputic targets. Copyright © 2016 Japanese Society for Investigative Dermatology. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Early Access Program Using Alpha 1 Antitrypsin Infusion for Patients With Steroid Refractory Acute GvHD After Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HSCT)

ClinicalTrials.gov

2017-05-29

SR aGvHD; Acute-graft-versus-host Disease; Steroid Refractory Acute Graft Versus Host Disease; Graft-versus-host-disease; Graft Vs Host Disease; Alpha 1-Antitrypsin Deficiency; Alpha-1 Proteinase Inhibitor; Alpha-1 Protease Inhibitor Deficiency; Acute Graft-Versus-Host Reaction Following Bone Marrow Transplant

Overview of GPM Missions's Ground Validation Program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, Eric A.; Mugnai, Alberto; Nakamura, Kenji

2004-01-01

An important element of the internationally structured Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) mission will be its ground validation research program. Within the last year, the initial architecture of this program has taken shape. This talk will describe that architecture, both in terms of the international program and in terms of the separate regional programs of the principle participating space agencies, i.e., ESA, JAXA, and NASA. There are three overriding goals being addressed in the planning of this program; (1) establishing various new, challenging and important scientific research goals vis-a-vis current ground validation programs supporting satellite retrieval of precipitation; (2) designing the program as an international partnership which operates, out of necessity, heterogeneous sites in terms of their respective observational foci and science thrusts, but anneals itself in terms of achieving a few overarching scientific objectives; and (3) developing a well-designed protocol that allows specific sites or site networks, at their choosing, to operate in a 'supersite' mode - defined as the capability to routinely transmit GV information at low latency to GPM's Precipitation Processing System (PPS). (The PPS is being designed as GPM's data information system, a distributed data system with main centers at the Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) within NASA, the Earth Observation Research Center (EORC) within JAXA, and a TBD facility to be identified by the ESA s ESTEC facility in Noordwijk.)

NASA GPM GV Science Requirements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, E.

2003-01-01

An important scientific objective of the NASA portion of the GPM Mission is to generate quantitatively-based error characterization information along with the rainrate retrievals emanating from the GPM constellation of satellites. These data must serve four main purposes: (1) they must be of sufficient quality, uniformity, and timeliness to govern the observation weighting schemes used in the data assimilation modules of numerical weather prediction models; (2) they must extend over that portion of the globe accessible by the GPM core satellite to which the NASA GV program is focused - (approx.65 degree inclination); (3) they must have sufficient specificity to enable detection of physically-formulated microphysical and meteorological weaknesses in the standard physical level 2 rainrate algorithms to be used in the GPM Precipitation Processing System (PPS), i.e., algorithms which will have evolved from the TRMM standard physical level 2 algorithms; and (4) they must support the use of physical error modeling as a primary validation tool and as the eventual replacement of the conventional GV approach of statistically intercomparing surface rainrates fiom ground and satellite measurements. This approach to ground validation research represents a paradigm shift vis-&-vis the program developed for the TRMM mission, which conducted ground validation largely as a statistical intercomparison process between raingauge-derived or radar-derived rainrates and the TRMM satellite rainrate retrievals -- long after the original satellite retrievals were archived. This approach has been able to quantify averaged rainrate differences between the satellite algorithms and the ground instruments, but has not been able to explain causes of algorithm failures or produce error information directly compatible with the cost functions of data assimilation schemes. These schemes require periodic and near-realtime bias uncertainty (i.e., global space-time distributed conditional accuracy of the retrieved rainrates) and local error covariance structure (i.e., global space-time distributed error correlation information for the local 4-dimensional space-time domain -- or in simpler terms, the matrix form of precision error). This can only be accomplished by establishing a network of high quality-heavily instrumented supersites selectively distributed at a few oceanic, continental, and coastal sites. Economics and pragmatics dictate that the network must be made up of a relatively small number of sites (6-8) created through international cooperation. This presentation will address some of the details of the methodology behind the error characterization approach, some proposed solutions for expanding site-developed error properties to regional scales, a data processing and communications concept that would enable rapid implementation of algorithm improvement by the algorithm developers, and the likely available options for developing the supersite network.

Validating Microwave-Based Satellite Rain Rate Retrievals Over TRMM Ground Validation Sites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fisher, B. L.; Wolff, D. B.

2008-12-01

Multi-channel, passive microwave instruments are commonly used today to probe the structure of rain systems and to estimate surface rainfall from space. Until the advent of meteorological satellites and the development of remote sensing techniques for measuring precipitation from space, there was no observational system capable of providing accurate estimates of surface precipitation on global scales. Since the early 1970s, microwave measurements from satellites have provided quantitative estimates of surface rainfall by observing the emission and scattering processes due to the existence of clouds and precipitation in the atmosphere. This study assesses the relative performance of microwave precipitation estimates from seven polar-orbiting satellites and the TRMM TMI using four years (2003-2006) of instantaneous radar rain estimates obtained from Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) Ground Validation (GV) sites at Kwajalein, Republic of the Marshall Islands (KWAJ) and Melbourne, Florida (MELB). The seven polar orbiters include three different sensor types: SSM/I (F13, F14 and F15), AMSU-B (N15, N16 and N17), and AMSR-E. The TMI aboard the TRMM satellite flies in a sun asynchronous orbit between 35 S and 35 N latitudes. The rain information from these satellites are combined and used to generate several multi-satellite rain products, namely the Goddard TRMM Multi-satellite Precipitation Analysis (TMPA), NOAA's CPC Morphing Technique (CMORPH) and Precipitation Estimation from Remotely Sensed Information using Artificial Neural Networks (PERSIANN). Instantaneous rain rates derived from each sensor were matched to the GV estimates in time and space at a resolution of 0.25 degrees. The study evaluates the measurement and error characteristics of the various satellite estimates through inter-comparisons with GV radar estimates. The GV rain observations provided an empirical ground-based reference for assessing the relative performance of each sensor and sensor class. Because the relative performance of the rain algorithms depends on the underlying surface terrain, the data for MELB was further stratified into ocean, land and coast categories using a 0.25 terrain mask. Relative to GV, AMSR-E and the TMI exhibited the highest correlation and skill over the full dynamic range of observed rain rates at both validation sites. The AMSU sensors, on the other hand, exhibited the lowest correlation and skill, though all sensors performed reasonably well compared to GV. The general tendency was for the microwave sensors to overestimate rain rates below 1 mm/hr where the sampling was highest and to underestimate the high rain rates above 10 mm/hr where the sampling was lowest. Underestimation of the low rain rate regime is attributed to difficulties of detecting and measuring low rain rates, while overestimation over the oceans was attributed largely to saturation of the brightness temperatures at high rain rates. Overall biases depended on the relative differences in the total rainfall at the extremes and the performance of each sensor at the nominal rain rates.

The Cryptophlebia Leucotreta Granulovirus—10 Years of Commercial Field Use

PubMed Central

Moore, Sean D.; Kirkman, Wayne; Richards, Garth I.; Stephen, Peter R.

2015-01-01

In the last 15 years, extensive work on the Cryptophlebia leucotreta granulovirus (CrleGV) has been conducted in South Africa, initially in the laboratory, but subsequently also in the field. This culminated in the registration of the first CrleGV-based biopesticide in 2004 (hence, the 10 years of commercial use in the field) and the second one three years later. Since 2000, more than 50 field trials have been conducted with CrleGV against the false codling moth, Thaumatotibia leucotreta, on citrus in South Africa. In a representative sample of 13 field trials reported over this period, efficacy (measured by reduction in larval infestation of fruit) ranged between 30% and 92%. Efficacy was shown to persist at a level of 70% for up to 17 weeks after application of CrleGV. This only occurred where the virus was applied in blocks rather than to single trees. The addition of molasses substantially and sometimes significantly enhanced efficacy. It was also established that CrleGV should not be applied at less than ~2 × 1013 OBs per ha in order to avoid compromised efficacy. As CrleGV-based products were shown to be at least as effective as chemical alternatives, persistent and compatible with natural enemies, their use is recommended within an integrated program for control of T. leucotreta on citrus and other crops. PMID:25809025

A Summary of Large Raindrop Observations from GPM GV Field Campaigns

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gatlin, Patrick N.; Petersen, Walter; Tokay, Ali; Thurai, Merhala; Bringi, V. N.; Carey, Lawrence; Wingo, Matthew

2013-01-01

NASA's Global Precipitation Measurement Mission (GPM) has conducted as series of Ground Validation (GV) studies to assist algorithm development for the GPM core satellite. Characterizing the drop size distribution (DSD) for different types of precipitation systems is critical in order to accurately estimate precipitation across the majority of the planet. Thus far, GV efforts have sampled DSDs in a variety of precipitation systems from Finland to Oklahoma. This dataset consists of over 33 million raindrops sampled by GPM GV's two-dimensional video disdrometers (2DVD) and includes RSD observations from the LPVEx, MC3E, GCPEx, HyMEx and IFloodS campaigns as well as from GV sites in Huntsville, AL and Wallops Island, VA. This study focuses on the larger end of the raindrop size spectrum, which greatly influences radar reflectivity and has implications for moment estimation. Thus knowledge of the maximum diameter is critical to GPM algorithm development. There are over 24,000 raindrops exceeding 5 mm in diameter contained within this disdrometer dataset. The largest raindrops in the 2DVD dataset (>7-8 mm in diameter) are found within intense convective thunderstorms, and their origins are believed to be hailstones. In stratiform rainfall, large raindrops have also been found to fall from lower and thicker melting layers. The 2DVD dataset will be combined with that collected by dual-polarimetric radar and aircraft particle imaging probes to "follow" the vertical evolution of the DSD tail (i.e., retrace the large drops from the surface to their origins aloft).

Clustering gene expression data based on predicted differential effects of GV interaction.

PubMed

Pan, Hai-Yan; Zhu, Jun; Han, Dan-Fu

2005-02-01

Microarray has become a popular biotechnology in biological and medical research. However, systematic and stochastic variabilities in microarray data are expected and unavoidable, resulting in the problem that the raw measurements have inherent "noise" within microarray experiments. Currently, logarithmic ratios are usually analyzed by various clustering methods directly, which may introduce bias interpretation in identifying groups of genes or samples. In this paper, a statistical method based on mixed model approaches was proposed for microarray data cluster analysis. The underlying rationale of this method is to partition the observed total gene expression level into various variations caused by different factors using an ANOVA model, and to predict the differential effects of GV (gene by variety) interaction using the adjusted unbiased prediction (AUP) method. The predicted GV interaction effects can then be used as the inputs of cluster analysis. We illustrated the application of our method with a gene expression dataset and elucidated the utility of our approach using an external validation.

The Complete Genome of a New Betabaculovirus from Clostera anastomosis

PubMed Central

Yin, Feifei; Zhu, Zheng; Liu, Xiaoping; Hou, Dianhai; Wang, Jun; Zhang, Lei; Wang, Manli; Kou, Zheng; Wang, Hualin; Deng, Fei; Hu, Zhihong

2015-01-01

Clostera anastomosis (Lepidoptera: Notodontidae) is a defoliating forest insect pest. Clostera anastomosis granulovirus-B (ClasGV-B) belonging to the genus Betabaculovirus of family Baculoviridae has been used for biological control of the pest. Here we reported the full genome sequence of ClasGV-B and compared it to other previously sequenced baculoviruses. The circular double-stranded DNA genome is 107,439 bp in length, with a G+C content of 37.8% and contains 123 open reading frames (ORFs) representing 93% of the genome. ClasGV-B contains 37 baculovirus core genes, 25 lepidopteran baculovirus specific genes, 19 betabaculovirus specific genes, 39 other genes with homologues to baculoviruses and 3 ORFs unique to ClasGV-B. Hrs appear to be absent from the ClasGV-B genome, however, two non-hr repeats were found. Phylogenetic tree based on 37 core genes from 73 baculovirus genomes placed ClasGV-B in the clade b of betabaculoviruses and was most closely related to Erinnyis ello GV (ErelGV). The gene arrangement of ClasGV-B also shared the strongest collinearity with ErelGV but differed from Clostera anachoreta GV (ClanGV), Clostera anastomosis GV-A (ClasGV-A, previously also called CaLGV) and Epinotia aporema GV (EpapGV) with a 20 kb inversion. ClasGV-B genome contains three copies of polyhedron envelope protein gene (pep) and phylogenetic tree divides the PEPs of betabaculoviruses into three major clades: PEP-1, PEP-2 and PEP/P10. ClasGV-B also contains three homologues of P10 which all harbor an N-terminal coiled-coil domain and a C-terminal basic sequence. ClasGV-B encodes three fibroblast growth factor (FGF) homologues which are conserved in all sequenced betabaculoviruses. Phylogenetic analysis placed these three FGFs into different groups and suggested that the FGFs were evolved at the early stage of the betabaculovirus expansion. ClasGV-B is different from previously reported ClasGV-A and ClanGV isolated from Notodontidae in sequence and gene arrangement, indicating the virus is a new notodontid betabaculovirus. PMID:26168260

Developing Methods for Fraction Cover Estimation Toward Global Mapping of Ecosystem Composition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Roberts, D. A.; Thompson, D. R.; Dennison, P. E.; Green, R. O.; Kokaly, R. F.; Pavlick, R.; Schimel, D.; Stavros, E. N.

2016-12-01

Terrestrial vegetation seldom covers an entire pixel due to spatial mixing at many scales. Estimating the fractional contributions of photosynthetic green vegetation (GV), non-photosynthetic vegetation (NPV), and substrate (soil, rock, etc.) to mixed spectra can significantly improve quantitative remote measurement of terrestrial ecosystems. Traditional methods for estimating fractional vegetation cover rely on vegetation indices that are sensitive to variable substrate brightness, NPV and sun-sensor geometry. Spectral mixture analysis (SMA) is an alternate framework that provides estimates of fractional cover. However, simple SMA, in which the same set of endmembers is used for an entire image, fails to account for natural spectral variability within a cover class. Multiple Endmember Spectral Mixture Analysis (MESMA) is a variant of SMA that allows the number and types of pure spectra to vary on a per-pixel basis, thereby accounting for endmember variability and generating more accurate cover estimates, but at a higher computational cost. Routine generation and delivery of GV, NPV, and substrate (S) fractions using MESMA is currently in development for large, diverse datasets acquired by the Airborne Visible Infrared Imaging Spectrometer (AVIRIS). We present initial results, including our methodology for ensuring consistency and generalizability of fractional cover estimates across a wide range of regions, seasons, and biomes. We also assess uncertainty and provide a strategy for validation. GV, NPV, and S fractions are an important precursor for deriving consistent measurements of ecosystem parameters such as plant stress and mortality, functional trait assessment, disturbance susceptibility and recovery, and biomass and carbon stock assessment. Copyright 2016 California Institute of Technology. All Rights Reserved. We acknowledge support of the US Government, NASA, the Earth Science Division and Terrestrial Ecology program.

Ground Validation Assessments of GPM Core Observatory Science Requirements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Petersen, Walt; Huffman, George; Kidd, Chris; Skofronick-Jackson, Gail

2017-04-01

NASA Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) Mission science requirements define specific measurement error standards for retrieved precipitation parameters such as rain rate, raindrop size distribution, and falling snow detection on instantaneous temporal scales and spatial resolutions ranging from effective instrument fields of view [FOV], to grid scales of 50 km x 50 km. Quantitative evaluation of these requirements intrinsically relies on GPM precipitation retrieval algorithm performance in myriad precipitation regimes (and hence, assumptions related to physics) and on the quality of ground-validation (GV) data being used to assess the satellite products. We will review GPM GV products, their quality, and their application to assessing GPM science requirements, interleaving measurement and precipitation physical considerations applicable to the approaches used. Core GV data products used to assess GPM satellite products include 1) two minute and 30-minute rain gauge bias-adjusted radar rain rate products and precipitation types (rain/snow) adapted/modified from the NOAA/OU multi-radar multi-sensor (MRMS) product over the continental U.S.; 2) Polarimetric radar estimates of rain rate over the ocean collected using the K-Pol radar at Kwajalein Atoll in the Marshall Islands and the Middleton Island WSR-88D radar located in the Gulf of Alaska; and 3) Multi-regime, field campaign and site-specific disdrometer-measured rain/snow size distribution (DSD), phase and fallspeed information used to derive polarimetric radar-based DSD retrievals and snow water equivalent rates (SWER) for comparison to coincident GPM-estimated DSD and precipitation rates/types, respectively. Within the limits of GV-product uncertainty we demonstrate that the GPM Core satellite meets its basic mission science requirements for a variety of precipitation regimes. For the liquid phase, we find that GPM radar-based products are particularly successful in meeting bias and random error requirements associated with retrievals of rain rate and required +/- 0.5 millimeter error bounds for mass-weighted mean drop diameter. Version-04 (V4) GMI GPROF radiometer-based rain rate products exhibit reasonable agreement with GV, but do not completely meet mission science requirements over the continental U.S. for lighter rain rates (e.g., 1 mm/hr) due to excessive random error ( 75%). Importantly, substantial corrections were made to the V4 GPROF algorithm and preliminary analysis of Version 5 (V5) rain products indicates more robust performance relative to GV. For the frozen phase and a modest GPM requirement to "demonstrate detection of snowfall", DPR products do successfully identify snowfall within the sensitivity and beam sampling limits of the DPR instrument ( 12 dBZ lower limit; lowest clutter-free bins). Similarly, the GPROF algorithm successfully "detects" falling snow and delineates it from liquid precipitation. However, the GV approach to computing falling-snow "detection" statistics is intrinsically tied to GPROF Bayesian algorithm-based thresholds of precipitation "detection" and model analysis temperature, and is not sufficiently tied to SWER. Hence we will also discuss ongoing work to establish the lower threshold SWER for "detection" using combined GV radar, gauge and disdrometer-based case studies.

The proteome pattern cGvHD_MS14 allows early and accurate prediction of chronic GvHD after allogeneic stem cell transplantation.

PubMed

Weissinger, E M; Human, C; Metzger, J; Hambach, L; Wolf, D; Greinix, H T; Dickinson, A M; Mullen, W; Jonigk, D; Kuzmina, Z; Kreipe, H; Schweier, P; Böhm, O; Türüchanow, I; Ihlenburg-Schwarz, D; Raad, J; Durban, A; Schiemann, M; Könecke, C; Diedrich, H; Holler, E; Beutel, G; Krauter, J; Ganser, A; Stadler, M

2017-03-01

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) may be curative, but is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGvHD), characterized by inflammation and fibrosis of multiple target organs, considerably contributes to the morbidity and mortality even years after allo-HSCT. Diagnosis of cGvHD is based on clinical features and histology of biopsies. Here, we report the generation of a urinary cGvHD-specific proteome-pattern (cGvHD_MS14) established by capillary electrophoresis-mass spectrometry to predict onset and severity of cGvHD as an unbiased laboratory test. cGvHD_MS14 was evaluated on samples from 412 patients collected prospectively in four transplant centers. Sensitivity and specificity was 84 and 76% by cGvHD_MS14 classification. Sensitivity further increased to 93% by combination of cGvHD_MS14 with relevant clinical variables to a logistic regression model. cGvHD was predicted up to 55 days prior to clinical diagnosis. Acute GvHD is not recognized by cGvHD_MS14. cGvHD_MS14 consists of 14 differentially excreted peptides, six of those have been sequenced to date and are fragments from thymosin β-4, eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4γ2, fibrinogen β-chain or collagens. In conclusion, the cGvHD_MS14-pattern allows early, highly sensitive and specific prediction of cGvHD as an independent diagnostic criterion of clinical diagnosis potentially allowing early therapeutic intervention.

Photo-triggered recognition between host and guest compounds in a giant vesicle encapsulating photo-pierceable vesicles.

PubMed

Suzuki, Kentaro; Machida, Kotaro; Yamaguchi, Kazuo; Sugawara, Tadashi

2018-01-01

Here, we used centrifugal precipitation to construct a giant vesicle (GV) encapsulating smaller giant vesicles (GV-in-GV) which comprises a photo-resistant outer GV and a photo-pierceable inner GV; the outer GV contained a fluorescent probe (SYBR Green I) in its inner water pool, and the inner GV contained double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) in its inner water pool. The phospholipid membrane of the inner GV was made photo-pierceable by inclusion of ca. 15mol% of a caged phospholipid in its membrane. Immediately after exposure of the GV-in-GVs to UV irradiation, strong fluorescence was detected in the inner water pool of the outer GV, indicating that dsDNA had been released from the inner GV and had complexed with the fluorescent probe. These dynamics can be recognized as a macroscopic representation of the molecular level function of a caged compound. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

In utero and lactational exposure to vinclozolin and genistein induces genomic changes in the rat mammary gland.

PubMed

El Sheikh Saad, H; Toullec, A; Vacher, S; Pocard, M; Bieche, I; Perrot-Applanat, M

2013-02-01

Exposure to low doses of environmental estrogens such as bisphenol A and genistein (G) alters mammary gland development. The effects of environmental anti-androgens, such as the fungicide vinclozolin (V), on mammary gland morphogenesis are unknown. We previously reported that perinatal exposure to G, V, and the GV combination causes histological changes in the mammary gland during the peripubertal period, suggesting alterations to the peripubertal hormone response. We now investigate whether perinatal exposure to these compounds alters the gene expression profiles of the developing glands to identify the dysregulated signaling pathways and the underlying mechanisms. G, V, or GV (1 mg/kg body weight per day) was added to diet of Wistar rats, from conception to weaning; female offspring mammary glands were collected at postnatal days (PNDs) 35 and 50. Genes displaying differential expression and belonging to different functional categories were validated by quantitative PCR and immunocytochemistry. At PND35, G had little effect; the slight changes noted were in genes related to morphogenesis. The changes following exposure to V concerned the functional categories associated with development (Cldn1, Krt17, and Sprr1a), carbohydrate metabolism, and steroidogenesis. The GV mixture upregulated genes (Krt17, Pvalb, and Tnni2) involved in muscle development, indicating effects on myoepithelial cells during mammary gland morphogenesis. Importantly, at PND50, cycling females exposed to GV showed an increase in the expression of genes (Csn2, Wap, and Elf5) related to differentiation, consistent with the previously reported abnormal lobuloalveolar development previously described. Thus, perinatal exposure to GV alters the mammary gland hormone response differently at PND35 (puberty) and in animals with established cycles.

Using Multiple Endmember Spectral Mixture Analysis of MODIS Data for Computing the Fire Potential Index in Southern California

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schneider, P.; Roberts, D. A.

2007-12-01

The Fire Potential Index (FPI) is currently the only operationally used wildfire susceptibility index in the United States that incorporates remote sensing data in addition to meteorological information. Its remote sensing component utilizes relative greenness derived from a NDVI time series as a proxy for computing the ratio of live to dead vegetation. This study investigates the potential of Multiple Endmember Spectral Mixture Analysis (MESMA) as a more direct and physically reasonable way of computing the live ratio and applying it for the computation of the FPI. A time series of 16-day reflectance composites of Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) data was used to perform the analysis. Endmember selection for green vegetation (GV), non- photosynthetic vegetation (NPV) and soil was performed in two stages. First, a subset of suitable endmembers was selected from an extensive library of reference and image spectra for each class using Endmember Average Root Mean Square Error (EAR), Minimum Average Spectral Angle (MASA) and a count-based technique. Second, the most appropriate endmembers for the specific data set were selected from the subset by running a series of 2-endmember models on representative images and choosing the ones that modeled the majority of pixels. The final set of endmembers was used for running MESMA on southern California MODIS composites from 2000 to 2006. 3- and 4-endmember models were considered. The best model was chosen on a per-pixel basis according to the minimum root mean square error of the models at each level of complexity. Endmember fractions were normalized by the shade endmember to generate realistic fractions of GV and NPV. In order to validate the MESMA-derived GV fractions they were compared against live ratio estimates from RG. A significant spatial and temporal relationship between both measures was found, indicating that GV fraction has the potential to substitute RG in computing the FPI. To further test this hypothesis the live ratio estimates obtained from MESMA were used to compute daily FPI maps for southern California from 2001 to 2006. A validation with historical wildfire data from the MODIS Active Fire product was carried out over the same time period using logistic regression. Initial results show that MESMA-derived GV fraction can be used successfully for generating FPI maps of southern California.

Status Update on the GPM Ground Validation Iowa Flood Studies (IFloodS) Field Experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Petersen, Walt; Krajewski, Witold

2013-04-01

The overarching objective of integrated hydrologic ground validation activities supporting the Global Precipitation Measurement Mission (GPM) is to provide better understanding of the strengths and limitations of the satellite products, in the context of hydrologic applications. To this end, the GPM Ground Validation (GV) program is conducting the first of several hydrology-oriented field efforts: the Iowa Flood Studies (IFloodS) experiment. IFloodS will be conducted in the central to northeastern part of Iowa in Midwestern United States during the months of April-June, 2013. Specific science objectives and related goals for the IFloodS experiment can be summarized as follows: 1. Quantify the physical characteristics and space/time variability of rain (rates, DSD, process/"regime") and map to satellite rainfall retrieval uncertainty. 2. Assess satellite rainfall retrieval uncertainties at instantaneous to daily time scales and evaluate propagation/impact of uncertainty in flood-prediction. 3. Assess hydrologic predictive skill as a function of space/time scales, basin morphology, and land use/cover. 4. Discern the relative roles of rainfall quantities such as rate and accumulation as compared to other factors (e.g. transport of water in the drainage network) in flood genesis. 5. Refine approaches to "integrated hydrologic GV" concept based on IFloodS experiences and apply to future GPM Integrated GV field efforts. These objectives will be achieved via the deployment of the NASA NPOL S-band and D3R Ka/Ku-band dual-polarimetric radars, University of Iowa X-band dual-polarimetric radars, a large network of paired rain gauge platforms with attendant soil moisture and temperature probes, a large network of both 2D Video and Parsivel disdrometers, and USDA-ARS gauge and soil-moisture measurements (in collaboration with the NASA SMAP mission). The aforementioned measurements will be used to complement existing operational WSR-88D S-band polarimetric radar measurements, USGS streamflow, and Iowa Flood Center stream monitoring measurements. Coincident satellite datasets will be archived from current microwave imaging and sounding radiometers flying on NOAA, DMSP, NASA, and EU (METOP) low-earth orbiters, and rapid-scanned IR datasets collected from geostationary (GOES) platforms. Collectively the observational assets will provide a means to create high quality (time and space sampling) ground "reference" rainfall and stream flow datasets. The ground reference radar and rainfall datasets will provide a means to assess uncertainties in both satellite algorithms (physics) and products. Subsequently, the impact of uncertainties in the satellite products can be evaluated in coupled weather, land-surface and distributed hydrologic modeling frameworks as related to flood prediction.

Transfer of uncertainty of space-borne high resolution rainfall products at ungauged regions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tang, Ling

Hydrologically relevant characteristics of high resolution (˜ 0.25 degree, 3 hourly) satellite rainfall uncertainty were derived as a function of season and location using a six year (2002-2007) archive of National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)'s Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) Multi-satellite Precipitation Analysis (TMPA) precipitation data. The Next Generation Radar (NEXRAD) Stage IV rainfall data over the continental United States was used as ground validation (GV) data. A geostatistical mapping scheme was developed and tested for transfer (i.e., spatial interpolation) of uncertainty information from GV regions to the vast non-GV regions by leveraging the error characterization work carried out in the earlier step. The open question explored here was, "If 'error' is defined on the basis of independent ground validation (GV) data, how are error metrics estimated for a satellite rainfall data product without the need for much extensive GV data?" After a quantitative analysis of the spatial and temporal structure of the satellite rainfall uncertainty, a proof-of-concept geostatistical mapping scheme (based on the kriging method) was evaluated. The idea was to understand how realistic the idea of 'transfer' is for the GPM era. It was found that it was indeed technically possible to transfer error metrics from a gauged to an ungauged location for certain error metrics and that a regionalized error metric scheme for GPM may be possible. The uncertainty transfer scheme based on a commonly used kriging method (ordinary kriging) was then assessed further at various timescales (climatologic, seasonal, monthly and weekly), and as a function of the density of GV coverage. The results indicated that if a transfer scheme for estimating uncertainty metrics was finer than seasonal scale (ranging from 3-6 hourly to weekly-monthly), the effectiveness for uncertainty transfer worsened significantly. Next, a comprehensive assessment of different kriging methods for spatial transfer (interpolation) of error metrics was performed. Three kriging methods for spatial interpolation are compared, which are: ordinary kriging (OK), indicator kriging (IK) and disjunctive kriging (DK). Additional comparison with the simple inverse distance weighting (IDW) method was also performed to quantify the added benefit (if any) of using geostatistical methods. The overall performance ranking of the kriging methods was found to be as follows: OK=DK > IDW > IK. Lastly, various metrics of satellite rainfall uncertainty were identified for two large continental landmasses that share many similar Koppen climate zones, United States and Australia. The dependence of uncertainty as a function of gauge density was then investigated. The investigation revealed that only the first and second ordered moments of error are most amenable to a Koppen-type climate type classification in different continental landmasses.

Validation of an ambulatory capacity measure in Parkinson disease: a construct derived from the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale.

PubMed

Parashos, Sotirios A; Elm, Jordan; Boyd, James T; Chou, Kelvin L; Dai, Lin; Mari, Zoltan; Morgan, John C; Sudarsky, Lewis; Wielinski, Catherine L

2015-01-01

A construct calculated as the sum of items 13-15, 29, 30 of the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) has been used as an "Ambulatory Capacity Measure" (ACM) in Parkinson disease (PD). Its construct validity has never been examined. A similar construct, consisting of the mean value of the same UPDRS items has been used under the acronym PIGD as a measure of postural instability and gait disorder in PD. To examine the construct validity of the ACM and PIGD in PD. We analyzed data in an existing database of 340 PD patients, Hoehn and Yahr stages (HYS) 1-5 who participated in a study of falls. Number of falls (NOF) was recorded over 4 weeks, and UPDRS (mental, ADL, and motor subscales), HYS, Activities Based Confidence Scale (ABC), Freezing of Gait Questionnaire (FOG), Five Times Sit-to-Stand (FTSS), Timed Up-and Go (TUG), Gait Velocity (GV), and Berg Balance Scale (BBS) evaluations were performed. Internal consistency was assessed by Cronbach's alpha. Construct validity was assessed through correlations of the ACM and PIGD to these measures and to their summed-ranks. A coefficient of determination was calculated through linear regression. Mean age was 71.4, mean age at diagnosis 61.4 years; 46% were women; mean UPDRS subscale scores were: Mental 3.7; ADL 15.7; motor: 27.1; mean ACM was 6.51, and mean PIGD 1.30. Cronbach's alpha was 0.78 for both ACM and PIGD. Spearman correlation coefficients between the ACM/PIGD and ABC, FOG, TUG, GV and BBS were 0.69, 0.72, 0.67, 0.58, and 0.70 respectively. Correlation between the ACM/PIGD and summed-ranks of HYS, NOF, ABC, FOG, FTSS, TUG, GV and BBS was high (Spearman r = 0.823, p < 0.0001); 68% of the variability in the summed-ranks was explained by ACM/PIGD. The ACM and the PIGD are valid global measures and accurately reflect the combined effects of the various components of ambulatory capacity in PD patients with HY stages 1-4.

The genome sequence of Agrotis segetum granulovirus, isolate AgseGV-DA, reveals a new Betabaculovirus species of a slow killing granulovirus.

PubMed

Gueli Alletti, Gianpiero; Eigenbrod, Marina; Carstens, Eric B; Kleespies, Regina G; Jehle, Johannes A

2017-06-01

The European isolate Agrotis segetum granulovirus DA (AgseGV-DA) is a slow killing, type I granulovirus due to low dose-mortality responses within seven days post infection and a tissue tropism of infection restricted solely to the fat body of infected Agrotis segetum host larvae. The genome of AgseGV-DA was completely sequenced and compared to the whole genome sequences of the Chinese isolates AgseGV-XJ and AgseGV-L1. All three isolates share highly conserved genomes. The AgseGV-DA genome is 131,557bp in length and encodes for 149 putative open reading frames, including 37 baculovirus core genes and the per os infectivity factor ac110. Comprehensive investigations of repeat regions identified one putative non-hr like origin of replication in AgseGV-DA. Phylogenetic analysis based on concatenated amino acid alignments of 37 baculovirus core genes as well as pairwise distances based on the nucleotide alignments of partial granulin, lef-8 and lef-9 sequences with deposited betabaculoviruses confirmed AgseGV-DA, AgseGV-XJ and AgseGV-L1 as representative isolates of the same Betabaculovirus species. AgseGV encodes for a distinct putative enhancin, distantly related to enhancins from other granuloviruses. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Transfer of Satellite Rainfall Uncertainty from Gauged to Ungauged Regions at Regional and Seasonal Timescales

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tang, Ling; Hossain, Faisal; Huffman, George J.

2010-01-01

Hydrologists and other users need to know the uncertainty of the satellite rainfall data sets across the range of time/space scales over the whole domain of the data set. Here, uncertainty' refers to the general concept of the deviation' of an estimate from the reference (or ground truth) where the deviation may be defined in multiple ways. This uncertainty information can provide insight to the user on the realistic limits of utility, such as hydrologic predictability, that can be achieved with these satellite rainfall data sets. However, satellite rainfall uncertainty estimation requires ground validation (GV) precipitation data. On the other hand, satellite data will be most useful over regions that lack GV data, for example developing countries. This paper addresses the open issues for developing an appropriate uncertainty transfer scheme that can routinely estimate various uncertainty metrics across the globe by leveraging a combination of spatially-dense GV data and temporally sparse surrogate (or proxy) GV data, such as the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) Precipitation Radar and the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) mission Dual-Frequency Precipitation Radar. The TRMM Multi-satellite Precipitation Analysis (TMPA) products over the US spanning a record of 6 years are used as a representative example of satellite rainfall. It is shown that there exists a quantifiable spatial structure in the uncertainty of satellite data for spatial interpolation. Probabilistic analysis of sampling offered by the existing constellation of passive microwave sensors indicate that transfer of uncertainty for hydrologic applications may be effective at daily time scales or higher during the GPM era. Finally, a commonly used spatial interpolation technique (kriging), that leverages the spatial correlation of estimation uncertainty, is assessed at climatologic, seasonal, monthly and weekly timescales. It is found that the effectiveness of kriging is sensitive to the type of uncertainty metric, time scale of transfer and the density of GV data within the transfer domain. Transfer accuracy is lowest at weekly timescales with the error doubling from monthly to weekly.However, at very low GV data density (<20% of the domain), the transfer accuracy is too low to show any distinction as a function of the timescale of transfer.

Assessing the Relative Performance of Microwave-Based Satellite Rain Rate Retrievals Using TRMM Ground Validation Data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wolff, David B.; Fisher, Brad L.

2010-01-01

Space-borne microwave sensors provide critical rain information used in several global multi-satellite rain products, which in turn are used for a variety of important studies, including landslide forecasting, flash flood warning, data assimilation, climate studies, and validation of model forecasts of precipitation. This study employs four years (2003-2006) of satellite data to assess the relative performance and skill of SSM/I (F13, F14 and F15), AMSU-B (N15, N16 and N17), AMSR-E (Aqua) and the TRMM Microwave Imager (TMI) in estimating surface rainfall based on direct instantaneous comparisons with ground-based rain estimates from Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) Ground Validation (GV) sites at Kwajalein, Republic of the Marshall Islands (KWAJ) and Melbourne, Florida (MELB). The relative performance of each of these satellite estimates is examined via comparisons with space- and time-coincident GV radar-based rain rate estimates. Because underlying surface terrain is known to affect the relative performance of the satellite algorithms, the data for MELB was further stratified into ocean, land and coast categories using a 0.25 terrain mask. Of all the satellite estimates compared in this study, TMI and AMSR-E exhibited considerably higher correlations and skills in estimating/observing surface precipitation. While SSM/I and AMSU-B exhibited lower correlations and skills for each of the different terrain categories, the SSM/I absolute biases trended slightly lower than AMSRE over ocean, where the observations from both emission and scattering channels were used in the retrievals. AMSU-B exhibited the least skill relative to GV in all of the relevant statistical categories, and an anomalous spike was observed in the probability distribution functions near 1.0 mm/hr. This statistical artifact appears to be related to attempts by algorithm developers to include some lighter rain rates, not easily detectable by its scatter-only frequencies. AMSU-B, however, agreed well with GV when the matching data was analyzed on monthly scales. These results signal developers of global rainfall products, such as the TRMM Multi-Satellite Precipitation Analysis (TMPA), and the Climate Data Center s Morphing (CMORPH) technique, that care must be taken when incorporating data from these input satellite estimates in order to provide the highest quality estimates in their products. 3

Assessing the Relative Performance of Microwave-Based Satellite Rain Rate Retrievals Using TRMM Ground Validation Data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wolff, David B.; Fisher, Brad L.

2011-01-01

Space-borne microwave sensors provide critical rain information used in several global multi-satellite rain products, which in turn are used for a variety of important studies, including landslide forecasting, flash flood warning, data assimilation, climate studies, and validation of model forecasts of precipitation. This study employs four years (2003-2006) of satellite data to assess the relative performance and skill of SSM/I (F13, F14 and F15), AMSU-B (N15, N16 and N17), AMSR-E (Aqua) and the TRMM Microwave Imager (TMI) in estimating surface rainfall based on direct instantaneous comparisons with ground-based rain estimates from Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) Ground Validation (GV) sites at Kwajalein, Republic of the Marshall Islands (KWAJ) and Melbourne, Florida (MELB). The relative performance of each of these satellite estimates is examined via comparisons with space- and time-coincident GV radar-based rain rate estimates. Because underlying surface terrain is known to affect the relative performance of the satellite algorithms, the data for MELB was further stratified into ocean, land and coast categories using a 0.25deg terrain mask. Of all the satellite estimates compared in this study, TMI and AMSR-E exhibited considerably higher correlations and skills in estimating/observing surface precipitation. While SSM/I and AMSU-B exhibited lower correlations and skills for each of the different terrain categories, the SSM/I absolute biases trended slightly lower than AMSR-E over ocean, where the observations from both emission and scattering channels were used in the retrievals. AMSU-B exhibited the least skill relative to GV in all of the relevant statistical categories, and an anomalous spike was observed in the probability distribution functions near 1.0 mm/hr. This statistical artifact appears to be related to attempts by algorithm developers to include some lighter rain rates, not easily detectable by its scatter-only frequencies. AMSU-B, however, agreed well with GV when the matching data was analyzed on monthly scales. These results signal developers of global rainfall products, such as the TRMM Multi-Satellite Precipitation Analysis (TMPA), and the Climate Data Center s Morphing (CMORPH) technique, that care must be taken when incorporating data from these input satellite estimates in order to provide the highest quality estimates in their products.

Assessing the Relative Performance of Microwave-based Satellite Rain Rate Retrievals using TRMM Ground Validation Data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wolff, David B.; Fisher, Brad L.

2008-01-01

Space-borne microwave sensors provide critical rain information used in several global multi-satellite rain products, which in turn are used for a variety of important studies, including landslide forecasting, flash flood warning, data assimilation, climate studies, and validation of model forecast of precipitation. This study employs four years (2003-2006) of satellite data to assess the relative performance and skill of SSM/I (F13, F14 and F15), AMSU-B (N15, N16 and N17), AMSR-E (AQUA) and the TRMM Microwave Imager (TMI) in estimating surface rainfall based on direct instantaneous comparison with ground-based rain estimates from Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) Ground Validation (GV) sites at Kwajalein, Republic of the Marshall Islands (KWAJ) and Melbourne, Florida (MELB). The relative performance of each of these satellites is examined via comparisons with GV radar-based rain rate estimates. Because underlying surface terrain is known to affect the relative performance of the satellite algorithms, the data for MELB was further stratified into ocean, land and coast categories using a 0.25 terrain mask. Of all the satellite estimates compared in this study, TMI and AMSR-E exhibited considerably higher correlations and skills in estimating/observing surface precipitation. While SSM/I and AMSU-B exhibited lower correlations and skills for each of the different terrain categories, the SSM/I absolute biases trended slightly lower than AMSRE over ocean, where the observations from both emission and scattering channels were used in the retrievals. AMSU-B exhibited the least skill relative to GV in all of the relevant statistical categories, and an anomalous spike was observed in the probability distribution functions near 1.0 mm hr-1. This statistical artifact appears to be related to attempts by algorithm developers to include some lighter rain rates, not easily detectable by its scatter-only frequencies. AMSU-B, however, agreed well with GV when the matching data was analyzed on monthly scales. These results signal developers of global rainfall products, such as the TRMM Multi-Satellite Precipitation Analysis (TMPA), and the Climate Data Center s Morphing (CMORPH) technique, that care must be taken when incorporating data from these input satellite estimates in order to provide the highest quality estimates in their products.

The Status of the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) after 2 Years in Orbit

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kummerow, C.; Simpson, J.; Thiele, O.; Barnes, W.; Chang, A. T. C.; Stocker, E.; Adler, R. F.; Hou, A.; Kakar, R.; Wentz, F.

1999-01-01

The Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) satellite was launched on November 27, 1997, and data from all the instruments first became available approximately 30 days after launch. Since then, much progress has been made in the calibration of the sensors, the improvement of the rainfall algorithms, in related modeling applications and in new datasets tailored specifically for these applications. This paper reports the latest results regarding the calibration of the TRMM Microwave Imager, (TMI), Precipitation Radar (PR) and Visible and Infrared Sensor (VIRS). For the TMI, a new product is in place that corrects for a still unknown source of radiation leaking in to the TMI receiver. The PR calibration has been adjusted upward slightly (by 0.6 dBZ) to better match ground reference targets, while the VIRS calibration remains largely unchanged. In addition to the instrument calibration, great strides have been made with the rainfall algorithms as well, with the new rainfall products agreeing with each other to within less than 20% over monthly zonally averaged statistics. The TRMM Science Data and Information System (TSDIS) has responded equally well by making a number of new products, including real-time and fine resolution gridded rainfall fields available to the modeling community. The TRMM Ground Validation (GV) program is also responding with improved radar calibration techniques and rainfall algorithms to provide more accurate GV products which will be further enhanced with the new multiparameter 10 cm radar being developed for TRMM validation and precipitation studies. Progress in these various areas has, in turn, led to exciting new developments in the modeling area where Data Assimilation, and Weather Forecast models are showing dramatic improvements after the assimilation of observed rainfall fields.

Prevalence and determinants of fatigue in patients with moderate to severe chronic GvHD.

PubMed

Im, A; Mitchell, S A; Steinberg, S M; Curtis, L; Berger, A; Baird, K; Kuzmina, Z; Joe, G; Comis, L E; Juckett, M; Avila, D; Baruffaldi, J; Masuch, L; Pirsl, F; Pavletic, S Z

2016-05-01

Although fatigue is common after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation, little is known about fatigue in patients with chronic GvHD (cGvHD). The aim of this study was to explore factors associated with fatigue in cGvHD. Data were drawn from a sequentially recruited, cross-sectional study of adults with moderate or severe cGvHD (n=263). Respondents were classified as fatigued or not fatigued based on their response to a single item regarding loss of energy from the Lee cGvHD Symptom Scale. In univariate analysis, factors significantly associated with fatigue included performance status, number of prior cGvHD therapies, cGvHD symptom bother, self-assessed physical and mental health, nutritional status, walk velocity and self-reported physical activity. There were no significant associations between fatigue and disease-related cGvHD variables. Multivariable logistic regression demonstrated that being less active and having pulmonary and/or muscle/joint symptoms were independently associated with fatigue. In conclusion, clinically significant fatigue was prevalent in more than one-third of subjects with cGvHD, and was disabling. Absence of association with measures of cGvHD severity underscores the need to elucidate the pathogenesis of fatigue and its relationship with inflammatory activity. Pulmonary and muscle/joint symptoms and physical inactivity represent potential targets for intervention in clinical studies.

Consensus on performing skin biopsies, laboratory workup, evaluation of tissue samples and reporting of the results in patients with suspected cutaneous graft-versus-host disease.

PubMed

Hillen, U; Häusermann, P; Massi, D; Janin, A; Wolff, D; Lawitschka, A; Greinix, H; Meyer, R; Ziemer, M

2015-05-01

Histopathological diagnosis including selection of lesions, the determination of the best point of time for biopsy and workup is not trivial in cutaneous graft-versus-host disease (GvHD). To develop interdisciplinary recommendations on performing, the laboratory work up and reporting of the results of skin biopsies in patients with suspected cutaneous GvHD. A working group consisting of dermatopathologists, dermatologists, transplant-physicians and transplant-pathologists prepared recommendations for performing skin biopsies, laboratory workup and evaluation of tissue samples, and reporting of the results in patients with cutaneous GvHD. After achieving a consensus within the working group, a survey that comprised the core issues of the recommendations was electronically sent out to 72 alloHSCT centres within Germany, Austria, and Switzerland and their Departments of Pathology. The answers were discussed in a Consensus Conference and final recommendations were established. Twenty-five centres responded to the clinical and 17 centres to the histopathological survey. Questions addressed to the clinicians comprised the indication for skin biopsy in chronic GvHD (cGvHD) and acute GvHD (aGvHD) and the appropriate point of time for skin biopsy. Eighty-eight per cent agreed that the skin biopsy is generally indicated in patients with suspected cGvHD lacking diagnostic features. In contrast, with suspected aGvHD, only 62% of respondents felt that skin biopsy was necessary even if GvHD had not been confirmed in another organ. Although restricted due to the fact that immunosuppression is often applied in an emergency setting most centres supported skin biopsies before initiation of topical or systemic immunosuppression. The majority of pathologists agreed that in non-sclerotic GvHD a punch biopsy is adequate, whereas in sclerotic GvHD a scalpel biopsy is preferred. While a consensus on the need for biopsies in cGvHD was reached the value of skin biopsies in aGvHD and subsequent biopsies during therapy requires further evaluation. © 2014 European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology.

Comparison of Subcutaneous Regular Insulin and Lispro Insulin in Diabetics Receiving Continuous Nutrition

PubMed Central

Stull, Mamie C.; Strilka, Richard J.; Clemens, Michael S.; Armen, Scott B.

2015-01-01

Background: Optimal management of non–critically ill patients with diabetes maintained on continuous enteral feeding (CEN) is poorly defined. Subcutaneous (SQ) lispro and SQ regular insulin were compared in a simulated type 1 and type 2 diabetic patient receiving CEN. Method: A glucose-insulin feedback mathematical model was employed to simulate type 1 and type 2 diabetic patients on CEN. Each patient received 25 SQ injections of regular insulin or insulin lispro, ranging from 0-6 U. Primary endpoints were the change in mean glucose concentration (MGC) and change in glucose variability (GV); hypoglycemic episodes were also reported. The model was first validated against patient data. Results: Both SQ insulin preparations linearly decreased MGC, however, SQ regular insulin decreased GV whereas SQ lispro tended to increase GV. Hourly glucose concentration measurements were needed to capture the increase in GV. In the type 2 diabetic patient, “rebound hyperglycemia” occurred after SQ lispro was rapidly metabolized. Although neither SQ insulin preparation caused hypoglycemia, SQ lispro significantly lowered MGC compared to SQ regular insulin. Thus, it may be more likely to cause hypoglycemia. Analyses of the detailed glucose concentration versus time data suggest that the inferior performance of lispro resulted from its shorter duration of action. Finally, the effects of both insulin preparations persisted beyond their duration of actions in the type 2 diabetic patient. Conclusions: Subcutaneous regular insulin may be the short-acting insulin preparation of choice for this subset of diabetic patients. Clinical trial is required before a definitive recommendation can be made. PMID:26134836

Comparison of Subcutaneous Regular Insulin and Lispro Insulin in Diabetics Receiving Continuous Nutrition: A Numerical Study.

PubMed

Stull, Mamie C; Strilka, Richard J; Clemens, Michael S; Armen, Scott B

2015-06-30

Optimal management of non-critically ill patients with diabetes maintained on continuous enteral feeding (CEN) is poorly defined. Subcutaneous (SQ) lispro and SQ regular insulin were compared in a simulated type 1 and type 2 diabetic patient receiving CEN. A glucose-insulin feedback mathematical model was employed to simulate type 1 and type 2 diabetic patients on CEN. Each patient received 25 SQ injections of regular insulin or insulin lispro, ranging from 0-6 U. Primary endpoints were the change in mean glucose concentration (MGC) and change in glucose variability (GV); hypoglycemic episodes were also reported. The model was first validated against patient data. Both SQ insulin preparations linearly decreased MGC, however, SQ regular insulin decreased GV whereas SQ lispro tended to increase GV. Hourly glucose concentration measurements were needed to capture the increase in GV. In the type 2 diabetic patient, "rebound hyperglycemia" occurred after SQ lispro was rapidly metabolized. Although neither SQ insulin preparation caused hypoglycemia, SQ lispro significantly lowered MGC compared to SQ regular insulin. Thus, it may be more likely to cause hypoglycemia. Analyses of the detailed glucose concentration versus time data suggest that the inferior performance of lispro resulted from its shorter duration of action. Finally, the effects of both insulin preparations persisted beyond their duration of actions in the type 2 diabetic patient. Subcutaneous regular insulin may be the short-acting insulin preparation of choice for this subset of diabetic patients. Clinical trial is required before a definitive recommendation can be made. © 2015 Diabetes Technology Society.

Dual-tasking and gait in people with Mild Cognitive Impairment. The effect of working memory

PubMed Central

Montero-Odasso, Manuel; Bergman, Howard; Phillips, Natalie A; Wong, Chek H; Sourial, Nadia; Chertkow, Howard

2009-01-01

Background Cognition and mobility in older adults are closely associated and they decline together with aging. Studies evaluating associations between cognitive factors and gait performance in people with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) are scarce. In this study, our aim was to determine whether specific cognitive factors have a more identifiable effect on gait velocity during dual-tasking in people with MCI. Methods Fifty-five participants, mean age 77.7 (SD = 5.9), 45% women, with MCI were evaluated for global cognition, working memory, executive function, and attention. Gait Velocity (GV) was measured under a single-task condition (single GV) and under two dual-task conditions: 1) while counting backwards (counting GV), 2) while naming animals (verbal GV). Multivariable linear regression analysis was used to examine associations with an alpha-level of 0.05. Results Participants experienced a reduction in GV while engaging in dual-task challenges (p < 0.005). Low executive function and working memory performances were associated with slow single GV (p = 0.038), slow counting GV (p = 0.017), and slow verbal GV (p = 0.031). After adjustments, working memory was the only cognitive factor which remained significantly associated with a slow GV. Conclusion In older adults with MCI, low working memory performance was associated with slow GV. Dual-task conditions showed the strongest associations with gait slowing. Our findings suggest that cortical control of gait is associated with decline in working memory in people with MCI. PMID:19723315

Interfacial toughness of bilayer dental ceramics based on a short-bar, chevron-notch test

PubMed Central

Anunmana, Chuchai; Anusavice, Kenneth J.; Mecholsky, John J.

2009-01-01

Objective The objective of this study was to test the null hypothesis that the interfacial toughness of each of two types of bonded core-veneer bilayer ceramics is not significantly different from the apparent fracture toughness of the control monolithic glass veneer. Methods T-shaped short bars of a lithia-disilicate glass-ceramic core (LC) and yttria-stabilized polycrystalline zirconia core ceramic (ZC) were prepared according to the manufacturer's recommendations. V-shaped notches were prepared by using 25-μm-thick palladium foil, leaving the chevron notch area exposed, and the bars were veneered with a thermally compatible glass veneer (LC/GV and ZC/GV). Additionally, we also bonded the glass veneer to itself as a control group (GV/GV). Specimens were kept in distilled water for 30 days before testing in tension. Eight glass veneer bars were prepared for the analysis of fracture toughness test using the indentation-strength technique. Results The mean interfacial toughness of the LC/GV group was 0.69 [0.11] MPa·m1/2, and did not significantly differ from that of the GV/GV control group, 0.74 (0.17) MPa·m1/2 (p > 0.05). However, the difference between the mean interfacial toughness of the ZC/GV group, 0.13 (0.07) MPa·m1/2, and the LC/GV and the GV/GV groups was statistically significant (p<0.05). Significance For bilayer all-ceramic restorations with high-strength core materials, the veneering ceramics are the weakest link in the design of the structure. Since all-ceramic restorations often fail from chipping of veneer layers or crack initiation at the interface, the protective effects of thermal mismatch stresses oral prosthesis design should be investigated. PMID:19818486

3D Volumetry and its Correlation Between Postoperative Gastric Volume and Excess Weight Loss After Sleeve Gastrectomy.

PubMed

Hanssen, Andrés; Plotnikov, Sergio; Acosta, Geylor; Nuñez, José Tomas; Haddad, José; Rodriguez, Carmen; Petrucci, Claudia; Hanssen, Diego; Hanssen, Rafael

2018-03-01

The volume of the postoperative gastric remnant is a key factor in excess weight loss (EWL) after sleeve gastrectomy (SG). Traditional methods to estimate gastric volume (GV) after bariatric procedures are often inaccurate; usually conventional biplanar contrast studies are used. Thirty patients who underwent SG were followed prospectively and evaluated at 6 months after the surgical procedure, performing 3D CT reconstruction and gastric volumetry, to establish its relationship with EWL. The gastric remnant was distended with effervescent sodium bicarbonate given orally. Helical CT images were acquired and reconstructed; GV was estimated with the software of the CT device. The relationship between GV and EWL was analyzed. The study allowed estimating the GV in all patients. A dispersion diagram showed an inverse relationship between GV and %EWL. 55.5% of patients with GV ≤ 100 ml had %EWL 25-75% and 38.8% had an %EWL above 75% and patients with GV ≥ 100 ml had an %EWL under 25% (50% of patients) or between 25 and 75% (50% of this group). The Pearson's correlation coefficient was R = 6.62, with bilateral significance (p ≤ .01). The Chi-square result correlating GV and EWL showed a significance of .005 (p ≤ .01). The 3D reconstructions showed accurately the shape and anatomic details of the gastric remnant. 3D volumetry CT scans accurately estimate GV after SG. A significant relationship between GV and EWL 6 months after SG was established, seeming that GV ≥ 100 ml at 6 months of SG is associated with poor EWL.

Comparisons of Instantaneous TRMM Ground Validation and Satellite Rain Rate Estimates at Different Spatial Scales

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wolff, David B.; Fisher, Brad L.

2007-01-01

This study provides a comprehensive inter-comparison of instantaneous rain rates observed by the two rain sensors aboard the TRMM satellite with ground data from two regional sites established for long-term ground validation: Kwajalein Atoll and Melbourne, Florida. The satellite rain algorithms utilize remote observations of precipitation collected by the TRMM microwave imager (TMI) and the Precipitation Radar (PR) aboard the TRMM satellite. Three standard Level I1 rain products are generated from operational applications of the TMI, PR and Combined (COM) rain algorithms using rain information collected from the TMI and the PR along the orbital track of the TRMM satellite. In the first part of the study, 0.25 x 0.25 instantaneous rain rates obtained from the TRMM 3668 product were analyzed and compared to instantaneous GV rain rates gridded at a scale of 0.5deg x 0.5. In the second part of the study, TMI, PR, COM and GV rain rates were spatio-temporally matched and averaged at the scale of TMI footprint (- 150 sq km). This study covered a six-year period 1999-2004 and consisted of over 50,000 footprints for each GV site. In the first analysis our results showed that all of the respective rain rate estimates agree well, with some exceptions. The more salient differences were associated with heavy rain events in which one or more of the algorithms failed to properly retrieve these extreme events. Also, it appears that there is a preferred mode of precipitation for TMI rain rates at or near 2 mm/hr over the ocean. This mode was noted over ocean areas of Kwajalein and Melbourne and has been observed in TRMM tropical-global ocean areas as well.

Nucleoli from two-cell embryos support the development of enucleolated germinal vesicle oocytes in the pig.

PubMed

Kyogoku, Hirohisa; Ogushi, Sugako; Miyano, Takashi

2012-11-01

Recent research has shown that nucleoli of oocytes at the germinal vesicle (GV) stage (GV nucleoli) are not necessary for oocyte maturation but are essential for early embryonic development. Nucleoli of 2-cell embryos (2-cell nucleoli) have morphology similar to that of nucleoli in oocytes at the GV stage. In this study, we examined the ability of 2-cell nucleoli to substitute for GV nucleoli in terms of supporting early embryonic development by nucleolus aspiration (enucleolation) and transfer into metaphase II (MII) oocytes or 2-cell embryos that were derived from enucleolated oocytes at the GV stage in the pig. When 2-cell embryos were centrifuged to move the lipid droplets to one side of the blastomere, multiple nucleoli in the nucleus fused into a single nucleolus. The nucleoli were then aspirated from the 2-cell embryos by micromanipulation. The injection of 2-cell nucleoli to GV enucleolated oocytes at the MII stage rescued the embryos from the early embryonic arrest, and the resulting oocytes developed to blastocysts. However, the injection of 2-cell and GV nucleoli to 2-cell embryos derived from GV enucleolated oocytes rarely restored the development to blastocysts. These results indicate that 2-cell nucleoli support early embryonic development as GV nucleoli and that the presence of nucleoli is essential for pig embryos before the 2-cell stage.

"Am I Doing the Right Thing?": Pathways to Parenting a Gender Variant Child.

PubMed

Gray, Sarah A O; Sweeney, Kristen K; Randazzo, Renee; Levitt, Heidi M

2016-03-01

Gender variant (GV) children have a subjective sense of gender identity and/or preferences regarding clothing, activities, and/or playmates that are different from what is culturally normative for their biological sex. Despite increases in rates of GV children and their families presenting at clinics, there is little research on how raising a GV child affects the family as a whole or how families make decisions regarding their care. This study took an ecological-transactional framework to explore the question, "what is the experience of parents who raise a GV or transgender child?" Eight mothers and three fathers of GV male and female children (ages 5-13) referred through a GV support group participated in interviews. Transcripts were analyzed using an adaptation of grounded theory analysis. These parents attempted to pave the way to a nonstigmatized childhood for their GV child, typically through two pathways: rescuing the child from fear of stigma and hurt or accepting GV and advocating for a more tolerant world. Many participants used both pathways to different degrees or shifted paths over time, and the paths selected were related to parents' own understanding of GV and their experiences and backgrounds as well as characteristics of the children they were parenting and the communities they inhabited. Limitations, clinical implications, and future directions are discussed. © 2015 Family Process Institute.

“Am I Doing the Right Thing?”: Pathways to Parenting a Gender Variant Child

PubMed Central

GRAY, SARAH A. O.; SWEENEY, KRISTEN K.; RANDAZZO, RENEE; LEVITT, HEIDI M.

2017-01-01

Gender variant (GV) children have a subjective sense of gender identity and/or preferences regarding clothing, activities, and/or playmates that are different from what is culturally normative for their biological sex. Despite increases in rates of GV children and their families presenting at clinics, there is little research on how raising a GV child affects the family as a whole or how families make decisions regarding their care. This study took an ecological-transactional framework to explore the question, “what is the experience of parents who raise a GV or transgender child?” Eight mothers and three fathers of GV male and female children (ages 5–13) referred through a GV support group participated in interviews. Transcripts were analyzed using an adaptation of grounded theory analysis. These parents attempted to pave the way to a nonstigmatized childhood for their GV child, typically through two pathways: rescuing the child from fear of stigma and hurt or accepting GV and advocating for a more tolerant world. Many participants used both pathways to different degrees or shifted paths over time, and the paths selected were related to parents’ own understanding of GV and their experiences and backgrounds as well as characteristics of the children they were parenting and the communities they inhabited. Limitations, clinical implications, and future directions are discussed. PMID:25639568

Insights into the pathogenesis of GvHD: what mice can teach us about man.

PubMed

Hülsdünker, J; Zeiser, R

2015-01-01

Acute graft-vs-host disease (GvHD) is a life-threatening complication of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT). Most of the knowledge about the biology of GvHD is derived from mouse models of this disease and therefore a critical analysis of potential advantages and disadvantages of the murine GvHD models is important to classify and understand the findings made in these models. The central events leading up to GvHD were characterized in three phases which includes the tissue damage-phase, the T cell priming-phase and the effector-phase, when the disease becomes clinically overt. The role of individual cytokines, chemokines, transcription factor or receptors was studied in these models by using gene deficient or transgenic mice in the donor or recipient compartments. Besides, numerous studies have been performed in these models to prevent or treat GvHD. Several recent clinical trials were all based on previously reported findings from the mouse model of GvHD such as the trials on CCR5-blockade, donor statin treatment, vorinostat treatment or adoptive transfer of regulatory T cells for GvHD prevention. The different mouse models for GvHD and graft-vs-leukemia effects are critically reviewed and their impact on current clinical practice is discussed. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

[Acupuncture at Baihui(GV 20) and Shenting(GV 24) combined with basic treatment and regular rehabilitation for post-stroke cognitive impairment:a randomized controlled trial].

PubMed

Zhan, Jie; Pan, Ruihuan; Guo, Youhua; Zhan, Lechang; He, Mingfeng; Wang, Qiuchun; Chen, Hongxia

2016-08-12

To observe the clinical effect of acupuncture at Baihui(GV 20) and Shenting(GV 24) combined with rehabilitation for post-stroke cognitive impairment(PSCI). Fifty patients with PSCI were randomly assigned to an observation group and a control group,25 cases in each one. In the control group,basic treatment and regular rehabilitation were applied. In the observation group,acupuncture at Baihui(GV 20) and Shenting(GV 24) and the same therapies as the control group were used for continuous four weeks,once a day and five times a week. Mini-mental state examination(MMSE) and Montreal cognitive assessment(MoCA) were observed before and after treatment in the two groups. After treatment,the scores of MMSE and MoCA were improved apparently(both P <0.05),with better results in the observation group(both P <0.05). Acupuncture at Baihui(GV 20) and Shenting(GV 24) combined with basic treatment and regular rehabilitation can obviously improve the cognitive function of PSCI,and the effect is superior to that of basic treatment and regular rehabilitation.

hTERT peptide fragment GV1001 demonstrates radioprotective and antifibrotic effects through suppression of TGF‑β signaling.

PubMed

Chen, Wei; Shin, Ki-Hyuk; Kim, Sangjae; Shon, Won-Jun; Kim, Reuben H; Park, No-Hee; Kang, Mo K

2018-06-01

GV1001 is a 16‑amino acid peptide derived from the human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) protein (616‑626; EARPALLTSRLRFIPK), which lies within the reverse transcriptase domain. Originally developed as an anticancer vaccine, GV1001 demonstrates diverse cellular effects, including anti‑inflammatory, tumor suppressive and antiviral effects. In the present study, the radioprotective and antifibrotic effects of GV1001 were demonstrated through suppressing transforming growth factor‑β (TGF‑β) signaling. Proliferating human keratinocytes underwent premature senescence upon exposure to ionizing radiation (IR), however, treatment of cells with GV1001 allowed the cells to proliferate and showed a reduction in senescent phenotype. GV1001 treatment notably increased the levels of Grainyhead‑like 2 and phosphorylated (p‑)Akt (Ser473), and reduced the activation of p53 and the level of p21/WAF1 in irradiated keratinocytes. It also markedly suppressed the level of TGF‑β signaling molecules, including p‑small mothers against decapentaplegic (Smad)2/3 and Smad4, and TGF‑β target genes, including zinc finger E‑box binding homeobox 1, fibronectin, N‑cadharin and Snail, in irradiated keratinocytes. Furthermore, GV1001 suppressed TGF‑β signaling in primary human fibroblasts and inhibited myofibroblast differentiation. Chromatin immunoprecipitation revealed that GV1001 suppressed the binding of Smad2 on the promoter regions of collagen type III α1 chain (Col3a1) and Col1a1. In a dermal fibrosis model in vivo, GV1001 treatment notably reduced the thickness of fibrotic lesions and the synthesis of Col3a1. These data indicated that GV1001 ameliorated the IR‑induced senescence phenotype and tissue fibrosis by inhibiting TGF‑β signaling and may have therapeutic effects on radiation‑induced tissue damage.

Synergistic Effect of Combining Plutella xylostella Granulovirus and Bacillus thuringiensis at Sublethal Dosages on Controlling of Diamondback Moth (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae).

PubMed

Han, Guangjie; Li, Chuanming; Liu, Qin; Xu, Jian

2015-10-01

Plutella xylostella granulovirus (PxGV) and Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) are both entomo-pathogens to the diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (L.). The purpose of the present study was to measure the effect of the combination of PxGV and Bt at sublethal dosages on the development and mortality of diamondback moth in a laboratory setting. Bt and PxGV exhibited synergistic effect on diamondback moth larval mortality and effectively controlled diamondback moth populations with low dose combination treatment. The combination of three parts per million Bt and 1.3 × 10(3) occlusion bodies per milliliter of PxGV revealed a higher larval mortality compared with the treatment of Bt or PxGV alone. Combination of Bt and PxGV at sublethal concentrations also increased larval duration, reduced oviposition and decreased adult longevity remarkably, resulting in the lowest population trend index among the treatments. The results suggested that the combination of Bt and PxGV at sublethal dosages might provide a valuable way to improve the control efficacy of diamondback moth compared with treatment of Bt or PxGV alone. © The Authors 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Entomological Society of America. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Identification of candidate miRNAs and expression profile of yak oocytes before and after in vitro maturation by high-throughput sequencing.

PubMed

Xiong, X R; Lan, D L; Li, J; Zi, X D; Li, M Y

2016-12-01

Small RNA represents several unique non-coding RNA classes that have important function in a wide range of biological processes including development of germ cells and early embryonic, cell differentiation, cell proliferation and apoptosis in diverse organisms. However, little is known about their expression profiles and effects in yak oocytes maturation and early development. To investigate the function of small RNAs in the maturation process of yak oocyte and early development, two small RNA libraries of oocytes were constructed from germinal vesicle stage (GV) and maturation in vitro to metaphase II-arrested stage (M II) and then sequenced using small RNA high-throughput sequencing technology. A total of 9,742,592 and 12,168,523 clean reads were obtained from GV and M II oocytes, respectively. In total, 801 and 1,018 known miRNAs were acquired from GV and M II oocytes, and 75 miRNAs were found to be significantly differentially expressed: 47 miRNAs were upregulated and 28 miRNAs were downregulated in the M II oocytes compared to the GV stage. Among the upregulated miRNAs, miR-342 has the largest fold change (9.25-fold). Six highly expressed miRNAs (let-7i, miR-10b, miR-10c, miR-143, miR-146b and miR-148) were validated by real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) and consistent with the sequencing results. Furthermore, the expression patterns of two miRNAs and their potential targets were analysed in different developmental stages of oocytes and early embryos. This study provides the first miRNA profile in the mature process of yak oocyte. Seventy-five miRNAs are expressed differentially in GV and M II oocytes as well as among different development stages of early embryos, suggesting miRNAs involved in regulating oocyte maturation and early development of yak. These results showed specific miRNAs in yak oocytes had dynamic changes during meiosis. Further functional and mechanistic studies on the miRNAs during meiosis may beneficial to understanding the role of miRNAs on meiotic division. © 2016 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.

Lipid and fatty acid analysis of uninfected and granulosis virus-infected Plodia interpunctella larvae

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shastri-Bhalla, K.; Consigli, R. A.; Spooner, B. S. (Principal Investigator)

1994-01-01

A comparative study on the lipid and fatty acid composition of the uninfected and GV-infected Plodia interpunctella larvae was performed. Higher levels of free fatty acids were found in GV-infected larvae compared to those of the uninfected larvae, while the latter had more triacylglycerol compared to the former. The known identified phospholipids were fewer in the GV-infected larvae compared to those in the uninfected larvae. However, an unidentified phospholipid was found to be approximately two times higher in GV-infected larvae. The total lipid of both larvae had palmitic, oleic, and linoleic as the major fatty acids. The fatty acid composition of the GV-infected larval phospholipid differed considerably compared to that of the uninfected larvae, in that the ratio of unsaturated fatty acid to saturated fatty acid was 3.5 times less in the GV-infected larvae.

Pentraxin 3 plasma levels at graft-versus-host disease onset predict disease severity and response to therapy in children given haematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

PubMed

Dander, Erica; De Lorenzo, Paola; Bottazzi, Barbara; Quarello, Paola; Vinci, Paola; Balduzzi, Adriana; Masciocchi, Francesca; Bonanomi, Sonia; Cappuzzello, Claudia; Prunotto, Giulia; Pavan, Fabio; Pasqualini, Fabio; Sironi, Marina; Cuccovillo, Ivan; Leone, Roberto; Salvatori, Giovanni; Parma, Matteo; Terruzzi, Elisabetta; Pagni, Fabio; Locatelli, Franco; Mantovani, Alberto; Fagioli, Franca; Biondi, Andrea; Garlanda, Cecilia; Valsecchi, Maria Grazia; Rovelli, Attilio; D'Amico, Giovanna

2016-12-13

Acute Graft-versus-Host Disease (GvHD) remains a major complication of allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation, with a significant proportion of patients failing to respond to first-line systemic corticosteroids. Reliable biomarkers predicting disease severity and response to treatment are warranted to improve its management. Thus, we sought to determine whether pentraxin 3 (PTX3), an acute-phase protein produced locally at the site of inflammation, could represent a novel acute GvHD biomarker. Using a murine model of the disease, we found increased PTX3 plasma levels after irradiation and at GvHD onset. Similarly, plasma PTX3 was enhanced in 115 pediatric patients on day of transplantation, likely due to conditioning, and at GvHD onset in patients experiencing clinical symptoms of the disease. PTX3 was also found increased in skin and colon biopsies from patients with active disease. Furthermore, PTX3 plasma levels at GvHD onset were predictive of disease outcome since they resulted significantly higher in both severe and therapy-unresponsive patients. Multiple injections of rhPTX3 in the murine model of GvHD did not influence the disease course. Taken together, our results indicate that PTX3 constitutes a biomarker of GvHD severity and therapy response useful to tailor treatment intensity according to early risk-stratification of GvHD patients.

The Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Human Telomerase-Derived Peptide on P. gingivalis Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammatory Cytokine Production and Its Mechanism in Human Dental Pulp Cells

PubMed Central

Ko, Yoo-Jin; Kwon, Kil-Young; Kum, Kee-Yeon; Lee, Woo-Cheol; Baek, Seung-Ho; Kang, Mo K.; Shon, Won-Jun

2015-01-01

Porphyromonas gingivalis is considered with inducing pulpal inflammation and has lipopolysaccharide (LPS) as an inflammatory stimulator. GV1001 peptide has anticancer and anti-inflammation activity due to inhibiting activation of signaling molecules after penetration into the various types of cells. Therefore, this study examined inhibitory effect of GV1001 on dental pulp cells (hDPCs) stimulated by P. gingivalis LPS. The intracellular distribution of GV1001 was analyzed by confocal microscopy. Real-time RT-PCR was performed to determine the expression levels of TNF-α and IL-6 cytokines. The role of signaling by MAP kinases (ERK and p38) was explored using Western blot analysis. The effect of GV1001 peptide on hDPCs viability was measured by MTT assay. GV1001 was predominantly located in hDPC cytoplasm. The peptide inhibited P. gingivalis LPS-induced TNF-α and IL-6 production in hDPCs without significant cytotoxicity. Furthermore, GV1001 treatment markedly inhibited the phosphorylation of MAP kinases (ERK and p38) in LPS-stimulated hDPCs. GV1001 may prevent P. gingivalis LPS-induced inflammation of apical tissue. Also, these findings provide mechanistic insight into how GV1001 peptide causes anti-inflammatory actions in LPS-stimulated pulpitis without significantly affecting cell viability. PMID:26604431

Building the GPM-GV Column from the GPM Cold season Precipitation Experiment (Invited)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nesbitt, S. W.; Duffy, G. A.; Gleicher, K.; McFarquhar, G. M.; Kulie, M.; Williams, C. R.; Petersen, W. A.; Munchak, S. J.; Tokay, A.; Skofronick Jackson, G.; Chandrasekar, C. V.; Kollias, P.; Hudak, D. R.; Tanelli, S.

2013-12-01

Within the context of the Drop Size Distribution Working Group (DSDWG) of the Global Precipitation Mission-Ground Validation (GPM-GV) program, a major science and satellite precipitation algorithm validation focus is on quantitatively determining the variability of microphysical properties of precipitation in the vertical column, as well as the radiative properties of those particles at GPM-relevant microwave frequencies. The GPM Cold season Precipitation Experiment, or GCPEx, was conducted to address both of these objectives in mid-latitude winter precipitation. Radar observations at C, X, Ku, Ka, and W band from ground based scanning radars, profiling radars, and aircraft, as well as an aircraft passive microwave imager from GCPEx, conducted in early 2012 near Barrie, Ontario, Canada, can be used to constrain the observed reflectivites and brightness temperatures in snow as well as construct radar dual frequency ratios (DFRs) that can be used to identify regimes of microwave radiative properties in observed hydrometeor columns. These data can be directly matched with aircraft and ground based in situ microphysical probes, such as 2-D and bulk aircraft probes and surface disdrometers, to place the microphysical and microwave scattering and emission properties of the snow in context throughout the column of hydrometeors. In this presentation, particle scattering regimes will be identified in GCPEx hydrometeor columns storm events using a clustering technique in a multi-frequency DFR-near Rayleigh radar reflectivity phase space using matched ground-based and aircraft-based radar and passive microwave data. These data will be interpreted using matched in situ disdrometer and aircraft probe microphysical data (particle size distributions, habit identification, fall speed, mass-diameter relationships) derived during the events analyzed. This database is geared towards evaluating scattering simulations and the choice of integral particle size distributions for snow precipitation retrieval algorithms for ground and spaceborne radars at relevant wavelengths. A comparison of results for different cases with varying synoptic forcing and microphysical evolution will be presented.

Spectroscopic Classification of SN 2018gv with Keck I/LRIS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Siebert, M. R.; Dimitriadis, G.; Foley, R. J.

2018-01-01

We obtained spectroscopic observations of SN 2018gv with the LRIS spectrograph on the 10-m Keck I telescope on 2018 Jan 16 UT. The spectrum indicates that SN 2018gv is a very young, normal Type Ia supernova.

Changes in Regional Brain Homogeneity Induced by Electro-Acupuncture Stimulation at the Baihui Acupoint in Healthy Subjects: A Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study.

PubMed

Deng, Demao; Duan, Gaoxiong; Liao, Hai; Liu, Yanfei; Wang, Geliang; Liu, Huimei; Tang, Lijun; Pang, Yong; Tao, Jien; He, Xin; Yuan, Wenzhao; Liu, Peng

2016-10-01

According to the Traditional Chinese Medicine theory of acupuncture, Baihui (GV20) is applied to treat neurological and psychiatric disorders. However, the relationships between neural responses and GV20 remain unknown. Thus, the main aim of this study was to examine the brain responses induced by electro-acupuncture stimulation (EAS) at GV20. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was performed in 33 healthy subjects. Based on the non-repeated event-related (NRER) paradigm, group differences were examined between GV20 and a sham acupoint using the regional homogeneity (ReHo) method. Compared with the sham acupoint, EAS at GV20 induced increased ReHo in regions including the orbital frontal cortex (OFC), middle cingulate cortex (MCC), precentral cortex, and precuneus (preCUN). Decreased ReHo was found in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), supplementary motor area (SMA), thalamus, putamen, and cerebellum. The current findings provide preliminary neuroimaging evidence to indicate that EAS at GV20 could induce a specific pattern of neural responses by analysis of ReHo of brain activity. These findings might improve the understanding of mechanisms of acupuncture stimulation at GV20.

Improved outcome of children transplanted for high-risk leukemia by using a new strategy of cyclosporine-based GVHD prophylaxis.

PubMed

Bleyzac, N; Cuzzubbo, D; Rénard, C; Garnier, N; Dubois, V; Domenech, C; Goutagny, M-P; Plesa, A; Grardel, N; Goutelle, S; Janoly-Duménil, A; Bertrand, Y

2016-05-01

There is currently a major concern regarding the optimal immunosuppression therapy to be administered after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) to reduce both the toxicity of GvHD and the rate of relapse. We report the outcome of high-risk leukemia children transplanted with a new way of managing cyclosporine (CsA)-based GvHD prophylaxis. A total of 110 HSCT in 109 ALL or AML children who received CsA without mycophenolate or methotrexate in matched related as well as in matched or mismatched unrelated stem cell transplantation were included. CsA dosage regimens were individualized to obtain specific trough blood concentrations values. The incidences of grade I-II and III-IV acute GvHD were 69.1% and 1.8%, respectively, and 8.4% for chronic GvHD. GvHD was neither more frequent nor severe in unrelated than in related HSCT. GvHD occurred in 87% of patients with a mean CsA trough concentration ⩽120 ng/mL versus 43% with concentration >120 ng/mL (P<0.0001). Five-year disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival were 78% and 83.6%, respectively. DFS was 76.9% for ALL and 80.4% for AML patients. There was no difference in DFS between matched siblings and matched unrelated or mismatched unrelated HSCT. DFS in patients with minimal residual disease (MRD) ⩾10(-3) and in those with MRD <10(-3) before SCT was comparable. Our results indicate that a GvHD prophylaxis regimen based on CsA without mycophenolate or methotrexate is safe and effective whatever the donor compatibility is. These results suggest that GvL effect may be enhanced by this strategy of GvHD prophylaxis.

Genome of Epinotia aporema granulovirus (EpapGV), a polyorganotropic fast killing betabaculovirus with a novel thymidylate kinase gene

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Epinotia aporema (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) is an important pest of legume crops in South America. Epinotia aporema granulovirus (EpapGV) is a baculovirus that causes a polyorganotropic infection in the host larva. Its high pathogenicity and host specificity make EpapGV an excellent candidate to be used as a biological control agent. Results The genome of Epinotia aporema granulovirus (EpapGV) was sequenced and analyzed. Its circular double-stranded DNA genome is 119,082 bp in length and codes for 133 putative genes. It contains the 31 baculovirus core genes and a set of 19 genes that are GV exclusive. Seventeen ORFs were unique to EpapGV in comparison with other baculoviruses. Of these, 16 found no homologues in GenBank, and one encoded a thymidylate kinase. Analysis of nucleotide sequence repeats revealed the presence of 16 homologous regions (hrs) interspersed throughout the genome. Each hr was characterized by the presence of 1 to 3 clustered imperfect palindromes which are similar to previously described palindromes of tortricid-specific GVs. Also, one of the hrs (hr4) has flanking sequences suggestive of a putative non-hr ori. Interestingly, two more complex hrs were found in opposite loci, dividing the circular dsDNA genome in two halves. Gene synteny maps showed the great colinearity of sequenced GVs, being EpapGV the most dissimilar as it has a 20 kb-long gene block inversion. Phylogenetic study performed with 31 core genes of 58 baculoviral genomes suggests that EpapGV is the baculovirus isolate closest to the putative common ancestor of tortricid specific betabaculoviruses. Conclusions This study, along with previous characterization of EpapGV infection, is useful for the better understanding of the pathology caused by this virus and its potential utilization as a bioinsecticide. PMID:23051685

The application of simple metrics in the assessment of glycaemic variability.

PubMed

Monnier, L; Colette, C; Owens, D R

2018-03-06

The assessment of glycaemic variability (GV) remains a subject of debate with many indices proposed to represent either short- (acute glucose fluctuations) or long-term GV (variations of HbA 1c ). For the assessment of short-term within-day GV, the coefficient of variation for glucose (%CV) defined as the standard deviation adjusted on the 24-h mean glucose concentration is easy to perform and with a threshold of 36%, recently adopted by the international consensus on use of continuous glucose monitoring, separating stable from labile glycaemic states. More complex metrics such as the Low Blood Glucose Index (LBGI) or High Blood Glucose Index (HBGI) allow the risk of hypo or hyperglycaemic episodes, respectively to be assessed although in clinical practice its application is limited due to the need for more complex computation. This also applies to other indices of short-term intraday GV including the mean amplitude of glycemic excursions (MAGE), Shlichtkrull's M-value and CONGA. GV is important clinically as exaggerated glucose fluctuations are associated with an enhanced risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes due primarily to hypoglycaemia. In contrast, there is at present no compelling evidence that elevated short-term GV is an independent risk factor of microvascular complications of diabetes. Concerning long-term GV there are numerous studies supporting its association with an enhanced risk of cardiovascular events. However, this association raises the question as to whether the impact of long-term variability is not simply the consequence of repeated exposure to short-term GV or ambient chronic hyperglycaemia. The renewed emphasis on glucose monitoring with the introduction of continuous glucose monitoring technologies can benefit from the introduction and application of simple metrics for describing GV along with supporting recommendations. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Superior long term outcome associated with native vessel versus graft vessel PCI following secondary PCI in patients with prior CABG.

PubMed

Mavroudis, Chrysostomos A; Kotecha, Tushar; Chehab, Omar; Hudson, Jonathan; Rakhit, Roby D

2017-02-01

Secondary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with prior coronary artery bypass graft surgery is increasingly common. Graft vessel PCI has higher rates of adverse events compared with native coronary vessel PCI. To investigate the clinical outcomes of patients with prior CABG who underwent secondary PCI of either a graft vessel (GV), a native coronary vessel (NV) or both graft and native (NG) vessels. 220 patients (84% male) who underwent PCI in our institution to either GV (n=89), NV (n=103) or both GV and NV (NG group) (n=28) were studied. The study population underwent 378 procedures (GV group; n=126, NV group; n=164 and NG group; n=88). Median follow up was for 36months [range 2-75months]. Target vessel revascularisation (TVR) occurred in 12.5% of the GV group and 3.6% in the NV group [p=0.0004], and was predominantly due to in-stent restenosis. Patients who had PCI due to TVR were more likely to suffer from diabetes and peripheral vascular disease. History of chronic renal failure was associated with higher risk (HR 2.21, p=0.005) whereas preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) with lower risk (HR 0.17, p=0.0007) of death. The median survival (interval between CABG and end of follow-up period) was lower in the GV compared with the NV group (315 vs 372months p=0.005). This registry demonstrates inferior long term outcome for patients undergoing secondary PCI of GV versus NV. Where possible, a strategy of NV rather than GV target PCI should be considered in patients with prior CABG. Secondary PCI in patients with prior CABG surgery is increasingly common. Graft vessel PCI has inferior outcomes with high rates of restenosis and occlusion compared with native coronary vessel PCI. We studied the clinical outcomes of 220 patients with prior CABG who underwent secondary PCI to either a graft vessel (GV), a native coronary vessel (NV) or both graft and native (NG) vessels. Target vessel revascularisation was 5 times higher in the GV compared with the NV group. History of CRF and impaired left ventricular function were associated with higher risk of death. We also found that the median survival (interval between CABG and end of follow-up period) was better in the NV group compared with GV group. This registry study demonstrates inferior long term outcome for patients undergoing secondary PCI of GV. A strategy of NV rather than GV target PCI should be considered in patients with prior CABG. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

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

Jensen, Michael; Kollias, Pavlos; Giangrande, Scott

The Mid-latitude Continental Convective Clouds Experiment (MC3E) took place from April 22 through June 6, 2011, centered at the ARM Southern Great Plains site (http://www.arm.gov/sites/sgp) in northcentral Oklahoma. MC3E was a collaborative effort between the ARM Climate Research Facility and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s (NASA’s) Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) mission Ground Validation (GV) program. The campaign leveraged the largest ground-based observing infrastructure available in the central United States, including recent upgrades through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, combined with an extensive sounding array, remote sensing and in situ aircraft observations, and additional radar and inmore » situ precipitation instrumentation. The overarching goal of the campaign was to provide a three-dimensional characterization of convective clouds and precipitation for the purpose of improving the representation of convective lifecycle in atmospheric models and the reliability of satellite-based retrievals of precipitation.« less

Increase of endothelial progenitor cells in acute graft-versus-host disease after allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation for acute myeloid leukaemia.

PubMed

Medinger, Michael; Heim, Dominik; Gerull, Sabine; Halter, Jörg; Krenger, Werner; Buser, Andreas; Lengerke, Claudia; Bucher, Christoph; Passweg, Jakob

2016-08-01

Circulating endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs; CD31+ CD34(bright)CD133+ CD45(dim) cells) are novel markers of endothelial dysfunction and related to inflammatory processes such as acute graft-versus-host disease (aGvHD). 47 patients with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) who were in complete remission as they underwent allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation with myeloablative conditioning with PBSC as stem cell source were enrolled in the study. Blood samples for the quantitative analysis of circulating EPC levels were drawn at different time points in patients with and without aGvHD. CD34+ VEGFR2/KDR+ CD133+ triple-positive cells identified among CD34+ cells by FACS. EPC were quantified and data are presented as cells/ml whole blood. Circulating EPC levels were not significantly different in patients with and without aGvHD prior to conditioning (baseline) and at the time of engraftment. However, at diagnosis of aGvHD≥grade 2, EPC levels increased whereas in patients without aGvHD the EPC levels remained significantly lower (3021±278 versus 2322±195 cells/ml; p<0.001). Patients with steroid-refractory aGvHD had high levels of EPC throughout. EPC levels fell in responding patients. Our results demonstrate that the number of circulating EPCs is increased in patients with aGvHD compared to patients without aGvHD. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Pre-transplantation risk factors to develop sclerotic chronic GvHD after allogeneic HSCT: a multicenter retrospective study from the Société Française de Greffe de Moelle et de Thérapie Cellulaire (SFGM-TC).

PubMed

Detrait, M Y; Morisset, S; Peffault de Latour, R; Yakoub-Agha, I; Crocchiolo, R; Tabrizi, R; Bay, J-O; Chevalier, P; Barraco, F; Raus, N; Vigouroux, S; Magro, L; Mohty, M; Milpied, N; Blaise, D; Socié, G; Michallet, M

2015-02-01

Sclerotic chronic GvHD (cGvHD) is one of the most severe complications after allo-hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Risk factors associated with this complication remain not very well defined. With the aim to define a pre-transplantation risk profile, we have conducted a French retrospective analysis in 705 consecutive patients between 2005 and 2010. Analyses to determine pre-transplantation risk factors included as variables: patient and donor age, kind of donor, HLA matching, ABO matching, sex-matching, diagnosis, stem cell source, gender, GvHD prophylaxis and antithymocyte globulin (ATG) in the conditioning regimen. The cumulative incidence of sclerotic cGvHD was 18% (95% CI, 16.6-19.6) 3 years after onset of cGvHD. In univariate analysis, we found a significantly lower number of sclerotic cGvHD form in patients transplanted from cord blood cells (P=0.0021), in patients with a one mismatched donor (P=0.041) and in patients who had received ATG in the conditioning regimen (P=0.002). In multivariate analysis, factors associated with an increased risk of sclerotic cGvHD were young patient age, multiple myeloma and PBSC as the stem cell source. ATG in conditioning regimen and cord blood unit as the stem cell source were associated with a lower risk.

Stellar and Circumstellar Properties of the Pre-Main-Sequence Binary GV Tau from Infrared Spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Doppmann, Greg W.; Najita, Joan R.; Carr, John S.

2008-09-01

We report spatially resolved spectroscopy of both components of the low-mass pre-main-sequence binary GV Tau. High-resolution spectroscopy in the K and L bands is used to characterize the stellar properties of the binary and to explore the nature of the circumstellar environment. We find that the southern component, GV Tau S, is a radial velocity variable, possibly as a result of an unseen low-mass companion. The strong warm gaseous HCN absorption reported previously by Gibb and coworkers toward GV Tau S was not present during the epoch of our observations. Instead, we detect warm (~500 K) molecular absorption with similar properties toward the northern infrared companion, GV Tau N. At the epoch of our observations, the absorbing gas toward GV Tau N was approximately at the radial velocity of the GV Tau molecular envelope, but it was redshifted with respect to the star by ~13 km s-1. One interpretation of our results is that GV Tau N is also a binary and that most of the warm molecular absorption arises in a circumbinary disk viewed close to edge-on. Data presented herein were obtained at the W. M. Keck Observatory from telescope time allocated to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration through the agency's scientific partnership with the California Institute of Technology and the University of California. The Observatory was made possible by the generous financial support of the W. M. Keck Foundation.

Anomalous increase of solar anisotropy above 150GV in 1981-1983

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ueno, H.; Fujii, Z.; Mori, S.; Morishita, I.; Nagashima, K.

1985-01-01

An analysis was carried out of the observed data with Nagoya (surface). Misato (34mwe) and Sakashita (80mwe) multidirectional muon telescope, for the solar activity maximum period of 1978-1983. These data respond to primaries extending over the median rigidity range 60GV to 600GV. The observed amplitude at Sakashita station in 1981-1983 increased, especially in 1982; the amplitude is twice as large as that in 1978-1980, when those at Nagoya and Misato stations are nearly the same as those in 1978-1980. Uni-directional anisotropy is derived by the best fit method by assuming the flat rigidity spectrum with the upper cutoff rigidity Pu. The value of Pu obtained is 270GV in 1981-1983 and 150GV in 1978-1980.

Can arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi reduce Cd uptake and alleviate Cd toxicity of Lonicera japonica grown in Cd-added soils?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiang, Qiu-Yun; Zhuo, Feng; Long, Shi-Hui; Zhao, Hai-Di; Yang, Dan-Jing; Ye, Zhi-Hong; Li, Shao-Shan; Jing, Yuan-Xiao

2016-02-01

A greenhouse pot experiment was conducted to study the impact of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi-Glomus versiforme (Gv) and Rhizophagus intraradices (Ri) on the growth, Cd uptake, antioxidant indices [glutathione reductase (GR), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), ascorbate (ASA), glutathione (GSH) and malonaldehyde (MDA)] and phytochelatins (PCs) production of Lonicera japonica in Cd-amended soils. Gv and Ri significantly increased P acquisition, biomass of shoots and roots at all Cd treatments. Gv significantly decreased Cd concentrations in shoots and roots, and Ri also obviously reduced Cd concentrations in shoots but increased Cd concentrations in roots. Meanwhile, activities of CAT, APX and GR, and contents of ASA and PCs were remarkably higher in Gv/Ri-inoculated plants than those of uninoculated plants, but lower MDA and GSH contents in Gv/Ri-inoculated plants were found. In conclusion, Gv and Ri symbiosis alleviated Cd toxicity of L. japonica through the decline of shoot Cd concentrations and the improvement of P nutrition, PCs content and activities of GR, CAT, APX in inoculated plants, and then improved plant growth. The decrease of shoot Cd concentrations in L. japonica inoculated with Gv/Ri would provide a clue for safe production of this plant from Cd-contaminated soils.

Comparing Vegetation Response in Southern, Central and Northern California during the 1997-1998 and 2015-2016 El Niño

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schneiderman, A. C.; Miller, D. L.; Roberts, D. A.

2016-12-01

Quantifying changes in regional impacts of the positive phase of the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is very important in order to understand and anticipate the potential impacts of El Niños. Two specific El Niños were chosen for this study because of their similar magnitude and their anomalous differences in local precipitation across California. Using images obtained in southern (SoCal), central (CeCal) and northern California (NoCal) by the Landsat Thematic Mapper (TM) and Operational Land Imager (OLI), we evaluated the geographic patterns of precipitation enhancement during the 1997-1998 and 2015-2016 El Niños. California's vegetation response during the El Niños was measured using Constrained Reference Endmember Selection (CRES) and Spectral Mixture Analysis to select endmembers and map fractional cover for green vegetation (GV), non-photosynthetic vegetation (NPV) and soil. Our initial analysis showed a greater amount of GV in locations where the enhanced precipitation fell (e.g. SoCal in'97-'98 and NoCal in '15-'16). By comparing the '97-'98 and '15-'16 seasonal change in GV (dGV), we anticipated southern California to show a decrease in dGV between the two El Niño's and for NoCal to show an increase in dGV, with CeCal lying between these trends. Our results confirmed this pattern, and in SoCal during the '15-'16 El Niño the total seasonal dGV was +1450.6 km², which showed a negative trend compared to the +3841.2 km² dGV that occurred during the '97-'98 El Niño. We found similar trends in CeCal and NoCal because the dGV in '15-'16 was greater than dGV in '97-'98 for both locations. The lack of precipitation is speculated to be a result of sea surface temperature anomalies (SSTAs), which nearly reached the Tropic of Cancer during the '15-'16 El Niño. If the SSTAs continue to reach very high latitudes during future strong positive ENSO phases, we can speculate that similar trends in GV will be found.

Steroid treatment of acute graft-versus-host disease grade I: a randomized trial.

PubMed

Bacigalupo, Andrea; Milone, Giuseppe; Cupri, Alessandra; Severino, Antonio; Fagioli, Franca; Berger, Massimo; Santarone, Stella; Chiusolo, Patrizia; Sica, Simona; Mammoliti, Sonia; Sorasio, Roberto; Massi, Daniela; Van Lint, Maria Teresa; Raiola, Anna Maria; Gualandi, Francesca; Selleri, Carmine; Sormani, Maria Pia; Signori, Alessio; Risitano, Antonio; Bonifazi, Francesca

2017-12-01

Patients with acute graft- versus -host disease (GvHD) grade I were randomized to an observation arm (n=85) or to a treatment arm (n=86) consisting of 6-methylprednisolone 1 mg/kg/day, after stratification for age and donor type. The primary end point was development of grade II-IV GvHD. The cumulative incidence of grade II-IV GvHD was 50% in the observation arm and 33% in the treatment arm ( P =0.005). However, grade III-IV GvHD was comparable (13% vs 10%, respectively; P =0.6), and this was true for sibling and alternative donor transplants. Moderate/severe chronic GvHD was also comparable (17% vs 9%). In multivariate analysis, an early interval between transplant and randomization (

A pathophysiologic, gastroenterologic, and radiologic approach to the management of gastric varices.

PubMed

Ryan, Barbara M; Stockbrugger, Reinhold W; Ryan, J Mark

2004-04-01

Gastric varices (GV) occur in 20% of patients with portal hypertension either in isolation or in combination with esophageal varices (EV). There is no consensus for optimum treatment of GV and because they comprise an inhomogeneous entity, accurate classification is vital to determine the appropriate management. Gastroesophageal varices (GOV) are classified as GOV1 (EV extending down to cardia or lesser curve) or GOV2 (esophageal and fundal varices). Isolated gastric varices (IGV) may be located in the fundus (IGV1) or elsewhere in the stomach (IGV2). GV possibly bleed less frequently than EV, but GV bleeding is typically difficult to control, associated with a high risk for rebleeding, and high mortality. Fundal varices, large GV (>5 mm), presence of a red spot, and Child's C liver status are associated with a high risk for bleeding. GOV1 have a much lower risk for bleeding. A portosystemic pressure gradient of > or =12 mm Hg is not necessary for GV bleeding, probably related to the high frequency of spontaneous gastrorenal shunts in these patients. GOV1 should be treated as for EV. First-line treatment of bleeding fundal varices is endoscopic variceal obturation. TIPS is currently second-line acute treatment and is used for prevention of rebleeding. The role of some newer interventional radiologic techniques requires further appraisal. This review describes the pathophysiology, diagnosis, natural history, endoscopic, and interventional radiologic treatment options for GV.

Cisplatin plus gemcitabine versus a cisplatin-based triplet versus nonplatinum sequential doublets in advanced non-small-cell lung cancer: a Spanish Lung Cancer Group phase III randomized trial.

PubMed

Alberola, V; Camps, C; Provencio, M; Isla, D; Rosell, R; Vadell, C; Bover, I; Ruiz-Casado, A; Azagra, P; Jiménez, U; González-Larriba, J L; Diz, P; Cardenal, F; Artal, A; Carrato, A; Morales, S; Sanchez, J J; de las Peñas, R; Felip, E; López-Vivanco, G

2003-09-01

To compare the survival benefit obtained with cisplatin plus gemcitabine, a cisplatin-based triplet, and nonplatinum sequential doublets in advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Stage IIIB to IV NSCLC patients were randomly assigned to receive cisplatin 100 mg/m2 day 1 plus gemcitabine 1,250 mg/m2 days 1 and 8, every 3 weeks for six cycles (CG); cisplatin 100 mg/m2 day 1 plus gemcitabine 1,000 mg/m2 and vinorelbine 25 mg/m2 days 1 and 8, every 3 weeks for six cycles (CGV); or gemcitabine 1,000 mg/m2 plus vinorelbine 30 mg/m2 days 1 and 8, every 3 weeks for three cycles, followed by vinorelbine 30 mg/m2 days 1 and 8 plus ifosfamide 3 g/m2 day 1, every 3 weeks for three cycles (GV-VI). Five hundred fifty-seven patients were assigned to treatment (182 CG, 188 CGV, 187 GV-VI). Response rates were significantly inferior for the nonplatinum sequential doublet (CG, 42%; CGV, 41%; GV-VI, 27%; CG v GV-VI, P =.003). No differences in median survival or time to progression were observed. Toxicity was higher for the triplet: grade 3 to 4 neutropenia (GC, 32%; CGV, 57%; GV-VI, 27%; P <.05); neutropenic fever (CG, 4%; CGV, 19%; GV-VI, 5%; P <.0001); grade 3 to 4 thrombocytopenia (CG, 19%; CGV, 23%; GV-VI, 3%; P =.0001); and grade 3 to 4 emesis (GC, 22%; GCV, 32%; GV-VI, 6%; P <.0001). On the basis of these results, CG remains a standard regimen for first-line treatment of advanced NSCLC.

Effect of Inoculation with Glomus versiforme on Cadmium Accumulation, Antioxidant Activities and Phytochelatins of Solanum photeinocarpum

PubMed Central

Tan, Shi-Yun; Jiang, Qiu-Yun; Zhuo, Feng; Liu, Hui; Wang, Yu-Tao; Li, Shao-Shan; Ye, Zhi-Hong; Jing, Yuan-Xiao

2015-01-01

The plant growth, phosphate acquisition, Cd translocation, phytochelatins (PCs) production and antioxidant parameters [superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), guaiacol peroxidase (POD), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione (GSH), ascorbate (ASA) and malonaldehyde (MDA)] were investigated in Cd-hyperaccumulator Solanum photeinocarpum inoculated with Glomus versiforme BGC GD01C (Gv) in Cd-added soils (0, 5, 10, 20, 40 mg Cd kg-1 soil). Mycorrhizal colonization rates were generally high (from 77% to 94%), and hardly affected by Cd. Gv colonization significantly enhanced P acquisition, growth and total Cd uptakes in both shoots and roots of S. photeinocarpum at all Cd levels. Meanwhile, Gv symbiosis significantly increased Cd concentration in the roots, and decreased Cd concentration in the shoots at all Cd levels, which indicates that Gv could promote phytostabilization by enhancing Cd accumulation in the roots to inhibit its translocation to shoots and the “dilution effects” linked to an increase in plant dry matter yield and a reduced Cd partitioning to shoots. Moreover, the improvement of CAT, POD and APX activities in the leaves of mycorrhizal plants infers that Gv symbiosis helped S. photeinocarpum to relieve oxidative damage to biomolecules in Cd-contaminated soil. The evident decline of MDA content in the leaves of mycorrhizal plants indicates that Gv symbiosis evidently improved antioxidant activities, and the enhancement of PCs production in the leaves of mycorrhizal plants suggests that Gv-inoculated plant may be more efficient to relieve Cd phytotoxicity. Therefore, the possible mechanisms of Cd phytotoxicity alleviation by Gv can be concluded as the decline of Cd concentration in the shoots and the improvement of P acquisition, PCs production and activities of CAT, POD, APX in mycorrhizal plants. PMID:26176959

CCR7 guides migration of mesenchymal stem cell to secondary lymphoid organs: a novel approach to separate GvHD from GvL effect.

PubMed

Li, Hong; Jiang, YanMing; Jiang, XiaoXia; Guo, XiMin; Ning, HongMei; Li, YuHang; Liao, Li; Yao, HuiYu; Wang, XiaoYan; Liu, YuanLin; Zhang, Yi; Chen, Hu; Mao, Ning

2014-07-01

Inefficient homing of systemically infused mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) limits the efficacy of existing MSC-based clinical graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) therapies. Secondary lymphoid organs (SLOs) are the major niches for generating immune responses or tolerance. MSCs home to a wide range of organs, but rarely to SLOs after intravenous infusion. Thus, we hypothesized that targeted migration of MSCs into SLOs may significantly improve their immunomodulatory effect. Here, chemokine receptor 7 (CCR7) gene, encoding a receptor that specifically guides migration of immune cells into SLOs, was engineered into a murine MSC line C3H10T1/2 by retrovirus transfection system (MSCs/CCR7). We found that infusion of MSCs/CCR7 potently prolonged the survival of GvHD mouse model. The infused MSCs/CCR7 migrate to SLOs, relocate in proximity with T lymphocytes, therefore, potently inhibited their proliferation, activation, and cytotoxicity. Natural killer (NK) cells contribute to the early control of leukemia relapse. Although MSCs/CCR7 inhibited NK cell activity in vitro coculture, they did not impact on the proportion and cytotoxic capacities of NK cells in the peripheral blood of GvHD mice. In an EL4 leukemia cell loaded GvHD model, MSCs/CCR7 infusion preserved the graft-versus-leukemia (GvL) effect. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that CCR7 guides migration of MSCs to SLOs and thus highly intensify their in vivo immunomodulatory effect while preserving the GvL activity. This exciting therapeutic strategy may improve the clinical efficacy of MSC based therapy for immune diseases. © 2014 AlphaMed Press.

Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001 and Lactobacillus acidophilus La-14 Attenuate Gardnerella vaginalis-Infected Bacterial Vaginosis in Mice.

PubMed

Jang, Se-Eun; Jeong, Jin-Ju; Choi, Su-Young; Kim, Hyunji; Han, Myung Joo; Kim, Dong-Hyun

2017-05-23

Oral administration of a probiotic mixture (PM; Respecta ® ) consisting of Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001 (L1), Lactobacillus acidophilus La-14 (L2), and lactoferrin RCXTM results in colonization of these probiotics in the vagina of healthy women. Therefore, we examined whether vaginal colonization of the PM ingredients L1 and L2 could attenuate bacterial vaginosis (BV). BV was induced in mice via β-estradiol-3-benzoate-induced immunosuppression and intravaginal inoculation with Gardnerella vaginalis (GV). Inflammatory markers were analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, immunoblotting, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and flow cytometry. Oral or intravaginal administration of PM resulted in colonization of L1 and L2 in the vagina. Oral or intravaginal administration of L1, L2, or PM significantly inhibited GV-induced epithelial cell disruption, myeloperoxidase activity, NF-κB activation, and IL-1β and TNF-α expression ( p < 0.05). Administration of these probiotics also inhibited IL-17 and RORγt expression but increased IL-10 and Foxp3 expression. Of these probiotics, L2 most effectively attenuated GV-induced BV, followed by L1 and PM. Oral administration was more effective against GV-induced BV than intravaginal administration. L1 and L2 also significantly inhibited the adherence of GV to HeLa cells (a human cervical cancer cell line) and GV growth in vitro. In addition, L1 and L2 inhibited lipopolysaccharide-induced NF-κB activation in macrophages and the differentiation of splenocytes into Th17 cells in vitro, but increased their differentiation into Treg cells. Our study suggests that L1, L2, and PM attenuated GV-induced vaginosis by regulating both vaginal and systemic innate and adaptive immune responses rather than direct competition or killing of GV in the vagina.

National Institutes of Health classification for chronic graft-versus-host disease predicts outcome of allo-hematopoietic stem cell transplant after fludarabine-busulfan-antithymocyte globulin conditioning regimen.

PubMed

Saillard, Colombe; Crocchiolo, Roberto; Furst, Sabine; El-Cheikh, Jean; Castagna, Luca; Signori, Alessio; Oudin, Claire; Faucher, Catherine; Lemarie, Claude; Chabannon, Christian; Granata, Angela; Blaise, Didier

2014-05-01

Abstract In 2005, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) proposed standard criteria for diagnosis, organ scoring and global assessment of chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGvHD) severity. We retrospectively reclassified cGvHD with NIH criteria in a monocentric cohort of 130 consecutive adult patients with hematological malignancies presenting cGvHD after receiving allo-hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) with a fludarabine-busulfan-antithymocyte globulin (ATG) conditioning regimen, among 313 consecutive HSCT recipients. We compared NIH and Seattle classifications to correlate severity and outcome. The follow up range was effectively 2-120 months. Forty-four percent developed Seattle-defined cGvHD (22% limited, 78% extensive forms). Using NIH criteria, there were 23%, 40% and 37% mild, moderate and severe forms, respectively, and 58%, 32% and 8% classic cGvHD, late acute GvHD and overlap syndrome. Five-year overall survival was 55% (49-61), and cumulative incidences of non-relapse mortality (NRM) and relapse/progression at 2 years were 19% (14-23) and 19% (14-24). NIH mild and moderate forms were associated with better survival compared to severe cGvHD (hazard ratio [HR] = 3.28, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.38-7.82, p = 0.007), due to higher NRM among patients with severe cGvHD (HR = 3.04, 95% CI: 1.05-8.78, p = 0.04) but comparable relapse risk (p = NS). In conclusion, the NIH classification appears to be more accurate in predicting outcome mostly by the reclassification of old-defined extensive forms into NIH-defined moderate or severe.

[Effect of aconite cake-separated moxibustion at Guanyuan (CV 4) and Mingmen (GV 4) on thyroid function in patients of Hashimoto's thyroiditis].

PubMed

Xia, Yong; Xia, Ming-Zhe; Li, Yi; Liu, Shi-Min; Ju, Zi-Yong; He, Jin-Sen

2012-02-01

To explore the effects on thyroid function in patients of Hashimoto's thyroiditis treated with aconite cake-separated moxibustion and option the better therapeutic program. Eighty-five cases were randomly divided into a moxibustion group (42 cases) and a western medication group (43 cases). The moxibustion group was treated by aconite cake-separated moxibustion therapy with acupoints of two groups [(1) Danzhong (CV 17), Zhongwan (CV 12), Guanyuan (CV 4); (2) Dazhui (GV 14), Shenshu (BL 23), Mingmen (GV 4)] alternatively and oral administration of 25 microg Euthyrox everyday. The western medication group was oral administration of 25 microg Euthyrox everyday. Indices of thyroid function before and after treatment and clinical effect were compared between two groups. The clinical total effective rate and effective rate of thyroid function were 25.0% (10/40), 87.5% (35/40) in moxibustion group respectively, 7.53% (3/40) and 57.5% (23/40) in western medication group, with significant differences between two groups (both P < 0.05). Content of serum free thyroxine index (FT4) increased significantly in the moxibustion group after treatment (P < 0.01); content of serum supersensitive thyrotropin (S-TSH) in the moxibustion group was lower than that of western medication group, and contents of serum FT4 and free triiodothyronine (FT3) were higher than those of western medication group, but with no significant differences (all P > 0.05). Aconite cake-separated moxibustion at Guanyuan (CV 4) and Mingmen (GV 4) combined with oral administration of Euthyrox can improve clinical symptoms and thyroid function in patients of Hashimoto's thyroiditis, which is better than simple oral administration of Euthyrox.

Hyperglycemia and glycemic variability are associated with the severity of sepsis in nondiabetic subjects.

PubMed

Preechasuk, Lukana; Suwansaksri, Nattakarn; Ipichart, Nantawan; Vannasaeng, Sathit; Permpikul, Chairat; Sriwijitkamol, Apiradee

2017-04-01

The purpose was to compare glucose variability (GV) obtained via continuous glucose monitoring between nondiabetic sepsis patients and healthy subjects and to seek associations between GV and sepsis severity in nondiabetic sepsis patients. Nondiabetic sepsis inpatients and healthy controls received a 72-hour continuous glucose monitoring (iPro2, Medtronic) postadmission and post-oral glucose tolerance test, respectively. The mean glucose level (MGL) along with GV represented by standard deviation (SD) and the mean amplitude of glycemic excursion (MAGE) were calculated at 24 and 72 hours. Sepsis severity was evaluated with the Sepsis-related Organ Failure Assessment Score (SOFA). MGL and GV in patients with SOFA ≥9 and <9 were compared. Thirty nondiabetic sepsis and 10 healthy subjects were recruited. No differences were found between groups except for higher patient age in sepsis patients. The MGL and MAGE 72h of sepsis patients were significantly higher than those of healthy subjects. MGL and GV 24h were higher in patients with SOFA ≥9 than in patients with SOFA <9 (MGL 24h 195±17 vs 139±27, P<.001; SD 24h 32 [28, 36] vs 19 [5, 58], P=.02; and MAGE 24h 94 [58, 153] vs 54 [16, 179], P=.01). Nondiabetic sepsis patients had higher MGL and GV values than healthy subjects. MGL and GV 24h were associated with sepsis severity. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Case report: Central nervous system involvement of human graft versus host disease: Report of 7 cases and a review of literature.

PubMed

Ruggiu, Mathilde; Cuccuini, Wendy; Mokhtari, Karima; Meignin, Véronique; Peffault de Latour, Régis; Robin, Marie; Fontbrune, Flore Sicre de; Xhaard, Aliénor; Socié, Gérard; Michonneau, David

2017-10-01

Central nervous system (CNS) involvement of graft versus host disease (GvHD) is a rare cause of CNS disorders after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). Chronic CNS GvHD symptoms are heterogeneous and include cerebrovascular manifestations, demyelinating disease and immune-mediated encephalitis. CNS-Acute GvHD is not formally defined in literature. We report 7 cases of CNS-GvHD among which two had histological-proven disease. We reviewed 32 additional cases of CNS GvHD published in literature since 1990. In this cohort, 34 patients were transplanted for hematologic malignancies, and 5 for non-malignant hematopoiesis disorders. Of these patients, 25 had a history of chronic GvHD and immunosuppressive treatment had been decreased or discontinued in 14 patients before neurological symptoms onset. Median neurological disorder onset was 385 days [7-7320]. Patients had stroke-like episodes (n = 7), lacunar syndromes (n = 3), multiple sclerosis-like presentations (n = 7), acute demyelinating encephalomyelitis-like symptoms (n = 4), encephalitis (n = 14), mass syndrome (n = 1), and 3 had non-specific symptoms. Median neurological symptoms onset was 81.5 days [7-1095] for patients without chronic GVHD history versus 549 days [11-7300] for patients with chronic GVHD (P = 0.001). Patients with early involvement of CNS after allo-HSCT and no chronic GVHD symptoms were more frequently suffering from encephalitis (64% versus 28%, P = 0.07), whereas stroke-like episodes and lacunar symptoms were less frequent (9% versus 36%, P = 0.13). 34 patients with CNS-GvHD were treated with immunosuppressive therapy, including corticosteroids for 31 of them. Other treatments were intravenous immunoglobulin, plasmapheresis, cyclophosphamide, calcineurin inhibitors, mycophenolic acid, methotrexate and etoposide. 27 patients achieved a response: 10 complete responses, 15 partial responses and 2 transient responses. Of 25 patients with sufficient follow-up, 7 were alive and 18 patients deceased after CNS-GvHD diagnosis. CNS-related GvHD is a rare cause of CNS disorders after allo-HSCT and is associated with a poor prognosis.

Asymmetrical Polyhedral Configuration of Giant Vesicles Induced by Orderly Array of Encapsulated Colloidal Particles

PubMed Central

Natsume, Yuno; Toyota, Taro

2016-01-01

Giant vesicles (GVs) encapsulating colloidal particles by a specific volume fraction show a characteristic configuration under a hypertonic condition. Several flat faces were formed in GV membrane with orderly array of inner particles. GV shape changed from the spherical to the asymmetrical polyhedral configuration. This shape deformation was derived by entropic interaction between inner particles and GV membrane. Because a part of inner particles became to form an ordered phase in the region neighboring the GV membrane, free volume for the other part of particles increased. Giant vesicles encapsulating colloidal particles were useful for the model of “crowding effect” which is the entropic interaction in the cell. PMID:26752650

Asymmetrical Polyhedral Configuration of Giant Vesicles Induced by Orderly Array of Encapsulated Colloidal Particles.

PubMed

Natsume, Yuno; Toyota, Taro

2016-01-01

Giant vesicles (GVs) encapsulating colloidal particles by a specific volume fraction show a characteristic configuration under a hypertonic condition. Several flat faces were formed in GV membrane with orderly array of inner particles. GV shape changed from the spherical to the asymmetrical polyhedral configuration. This shape deformation was derived by entropic interaction between inner particles and GV membrane. Because a part of inner particles became to form an ordered phase in the region neighboring the GV membrane, free volume for the other part of particles increased. Giant vesicles encapsulating colloidal particles were useful for the model of "crowding effect" which is the entropic interaction in the cell.

Immunological Effect of aGV Rabies Vaccine Administered Using the Essen and Zagreb Regimens: A Double-Blind, Randomized Clinical Trial.

PubMed

Miao, Li; Shi, Liwei; Yang, Yi; Yan, Kunming; Sun, Hongliang; Mo, Zhaojun; Li, Li

2018-04-01

This study evaluated the immunological effect of an aGV rabies virus strain using the Essen and Zagreb immunization programs. A total of 1,944 subjects were enrolled and divided into three groups: the Essen test group, Essen control group, and Zagreb test group. Neutralizing antibody levels and antibody seroconversion rates were determined at 7 and 14 days after the initial inoculations and then 14 days after the final inoculation in all of the subjects. The seroconversion rates for the Essen test group, Essen control group, and Zagreb test group, which were assessed 7 days after the first dosing in a susceptible population, were 35.74%, 26.92%, and 45.49%, respectively, and at 14 days, the seroconversion rates in this population were 100%, 100%, and 99.63%, respectively. At 14 days after the final dosing, the seroconversion rates were 100% in all three of the groups. The neutralizing serum antibody levels of the Essen test group, Essen control group, and Zagreb test group at 7 days after the first dosing in the susceptible population were 0.37, 0.26, and 0.56 IU/mL, respectively, and at 14 days after the initial dosing, these levels were 16.71, 13.85, and 16.80 IU/mL. At 14 days after the final dosing, the neutralizing antibody levels were 22.9, 16.3, and 18.62 IU/mL, respectively. The results of this study suggested that the aGV rabies vaccine using the Essen program resulted in a good serum immune response, and the seroconversion rates and the neutralizing antibody levels generated with the Zagreb regimen were higher than those with the Essen regimen when measured 7 days after the first dose.

A Clinician's Guide to the Diagnosis and Management of Gallbladder Volvulus.

PubMed

Pottorf, Brian J; Alfaro, Leonardo; Hollis, Harris W

2013-01-01

Gallbladder volvulus (GV), or torsion of the gallbladder, is an uncommon surgical emergency. This article reviews the world literature related to GV. We examine the history of gallbladder torsion and highlight the critical constellation of presenting signs and symptoms, which guide the acute care physician and surgeon to accurate and timely diagnosis of GV before surgical intervention. A comprehensive review of all published cases of GV was performed using the National Library of Medicine (PubMed) database. Lists of typical symptoms and clinical presentations are provided to allow clinicians to establish an accurate preoperative diagnosis. GV is frequently undiagnosed before surgical intervention. However, clinical presentation and associated radiographic findings can lead to an accurate diagnosis if the clinician is aware of this uncommon condition. When the diagnosis has been established before operative intervention, expeditious laparoscopic cholecystectomy can be performed safely. Delays in diagnosis may mandate open cholecystectomy if laparoscopic extraction is contraindicated because of undesirable sequelae of gallbladder necrosis, specifically perforation, bilious peritonitis, and hemodynamic instability.

Precision Measurement of the Helium Flux in Primary Cosmic Rays of Rigidities 1.9 GV to 3 TV with the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer on the International Space Station.

PubMed

Aguilar, M; Aisa, D; Alpat, B; Alvino, A; Ambrosi, G; Andeen, K; Arruda, L; Attig, N; Azzarello, P; Bachlechner, A; Barao, F; Barrau, A; Barrin, L; Bartoloni, A; Basara, L; Battarbee, M; Battiston, R; Bazo, J; Becker, U; Behlmann, M; Beischer, B; Berdugo, J; Bertucci, B; Bindi, V; Bizzaglia, S; Bizzarri, M; Boella, G; de Boer, W; Bollweg, K; Bonnivard, V; Borgia, B; Borsini, S; Boschini, M J; Bourquin, M; Burger, J; Cadoux, F; Cai, X D; Capell, M; Caroff, S; Casaus, J; Castellini, G; Cernuda, I; Cerreta, D; Cervelli, F; Chae, M J; Chang, Y H; Chen, A I; Chen, G M; Chen, H; Chen, H S; Cheng, L; Chou, H Y; Choumilov, E; Choutko, V; Chung, C H; Clark, C; Clavero, R; Coignet, G; Consolandi, C; Contin, A; Corti, C; Gil, E Cortina; Coste, B; Creus, W; Crispoltoni, M; Cui, Z; Dai, Y M; Delgado, C; Della Torre, S; Demirköz, M B; Derome, L; Di Falco, S; Di Masso, L; Dimiccoli, F; Díaz, C; von Doetinchem, P; Donnini, F; Duranti, M; D'Urso, D; Egorov, A; Eline, A; Eppling, F J; Eronen, T; Fan, Y Y; Farnesini, L; Feng, J; Fiandrini, E; Fiasson, A; Finch, E; Fisher, P; Formato, V; Galaktionov, Y; Gallucci, G; García, B; García-López, R; Gargiulo, C; Gast, H; Gebauer, I; Gervasi, M; Ghelfi, A; Giovacchini, F; Goglov, P; Gong, J; Goy, C; Grabski, V; Grandi, D; Graziani, M; Guandalini, C; Guerri, I; Guo, K H; Haas, D; Habiby, M; Haino, S; Han, K C; He, Z H; Heil, M; Hoffman, J; Hsieh, T H; Huang, Z C; Huh, C; Incagli, M; Ionica, M; Jang, W Y; Jinchi, H; Kanishev, K; Kim, G N; Kim, K S; Kirn, Th; Korkmaz, M A; Kossakowski, R; Kounina, O; Kounine, A; Koutsenko, V; Krafczyk, M S; La Vacca, G; Laudi, E; Laurenti, G; Lazzizzera, I; Lebedev, A; Lee, H T; Lee, S C; Leluc, C; Li, H L; Li, J Q; Li, J Q; Li, Q; Li, Q; Li, T X; Li, W; Li, Y; Li, Z H; Li, Z Y; Lim, S; Lin, C H; Lipari, P; Lippert, T; Liu, D; Liu, H; Liu, Hu; Lolli, M; Lomtadze, T; Lu, M J; Lu, S Q; Lu, Y S; Luebelsmeyer, K; Luo, F; Luo, J Z; Lv, S S; Majka, R; Mañá, C; Marín, J; Martin, T; Martínez, G; Masi, N; Maurin, D; Menchaca-Rocha, A; Meng, Q; Mo, D C; Morescalchi, L; Mott, P; Müller, M; Nelson, T; Ni, J Q; Nikonov, N; Nozzoli, F; Nunes, P; Obermeier, A; Oliva, A; Orcinha, M; Palmonari, F; Palomares, C; Paniccia, M; Papi, A; Pauluzzi, M; Pedreschi, E; Pensotti, S; Pereira, R; Picot-Clemente, N; Pilo, F; Piluso, A; Pizzolotto, C; Plyaskin, V; Pohl, M; Poireau, V; Putze, A; Quadrani, L; Qi, X M; Qin, X; Qu, Z Y; Räihä, T; Rancoita, P G; Rapin, D; Ricol, J S; Rodríguez, I; Rosier-Lees, S; Rozhkov, A; Rozza, D; Sagdeev, R; Sandweiss, J; Saouter, P; Schael, S; Schmidt, S M; von Dratzig, A Schulz; Schwering, G; Scolieri, G; Seo, E S; Shan, B S; Shan, Y H; Shi, J Y; Shi, X Y; Shi, Y M; Siedenburg, T; Son, D; Song, J W; Spada, F; Spinella, F; Sun, W; Sun, W H; Tacconi, M; Tang, C P; Tang, X W; Tang, Z C; Tao, L; Tescaro, D; Ting, Samuel C C; Ting, S M; Tomassetti, N; Torsti, J; Türkoğlu, C; Urban, T; Vagelli, V; Valente, E; Vannini, C; Valtonen, E; Vaurynovich, S; Vecchi, M; Velasco, M; Vialle, J P; Vitale, V; Vitillo, S; Wang, L Q; Wang, N H; Wang, Q L; Wang, R S; Wang, X; Wang, Z X; Weng, Z L; Whitman, K; Wienkenhöver, J; Willenbrock, M; Wu, H; Wu, X; Xia, X; Xie, M; Xie, S; Xiong, R Q; Xu, N S; Xu, W; Yan, Q; Yang, J; Yang, M; Yang, Y; Ye, Q H; Yi, H; Yu, Y J; Yu, Z Q; Zeissler, S; Zhang, C; Zhang, J H; Zhang, M T; Zhang, S D; Zhang, S W; Zhang, X B; Zhang, Z; Zheng, Z M; Zhuang, H L; Zhukov, V; Zichichi, A; Zimmermann, N; Zuccon, P

2015-11-20

Knowledge of the precise rigidity dependence of the helium flux is important in understanding the origin, acceleration, and propagation of cosmic rays. A precise measurement of the helium flux in primary cosmic rays with rigidity (momentum/charge) from 1.9 GV to 3 TV based on 50 million events is presented and compared to the proton flux. The detailed variation with rigidity of the helium flux spectral index is presented for the first time. The spectral index progressively hardens at rigidities larger than 100 GV. The rigidity dependence of the helium flux spectral index is similar to that of the proton spectral index though the magnitudes are different. Remarkably, the spectral index of the proton to helium flux ratio increases with rigidity up to 45 GV and then becomes constant; the flux ratio above 45 GV is well described by a single power law.

Rigidity spectrum of z greater than or equal to 3 cosmic-ray nuclei in the range 4-285 GV and a search for cosmic antimatter

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Golden, R. L.; Adams, J. H., Jr.; Marar, T. M. K.; Deney, C. L.; Badhwar, G. D.; Heckman, H. H.; Lindstrom, P. J.

1974-01-01

A measurement, using the magnetic emulsion spectrometer system, of the differential rigidity spectrum of Z greater than or equal to 3 nuclei of the galactic cosmic radiation is presented. The system was flown on Aug. 22, 1969, from Palestine, Texas. The instrument floated above 125,000 feet for eight hours. The data in the rigidity range 8-285 GV can be represented by a power-law spectrum in rigidity, J(rho) = A rho to the minus gamma power, with the exponent gamma = 2.6 plus or minus 0.10. The spectrum in the range 15-285 GV is also described by the same exponent, gamma = 2.6 plus or minus 0.25. The data below 8 GV cannot be described by the same power law without invoking solar modulation. A set of nonunique parameters for modulation are given. Upper limit for the fraction of antimatter in the rigidity range 4-125 GV is .005 with 95% confidence limit.

Innovative /ye/ and /we/ sequences in recent loans in Japanese

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vance, Timothy; Matsugu, Yuka

2005-04-01

The GV sequences /ye/ and /we/ do not occur in Japanese except perhaps in recent loans. Katakana spellings of the relevant loans in authoritative dictionaries are inconsistent, and it is not clear whether native speakers treat them as containing the GV sequences /ye/ and /we/ or as containing the VV sequences /ie/ and /ue/. Native speakers of Japanese with minimal exposure to spoken English were recorded producing some relevant loans in response to picture prompts. The same speakers were also recorded producing some native words containing uncontroversial /ie/ and /ue/ sequences. All the productions are being analyzed acoustically to determine whether they show the expected contrast between GV and VV sequences. A VV sequence is disyllabic (and bimoraic) and should therefore have greater duration and more gradual formant movements than a monosyllabic (and monomoraic) GV sequence. Utterance-initially, a VV sequence should have a LH pitch pattern and should be preceded by a nondistinctive glottal stop, whereas a GV sequence should have a H pitch pattern and should have smooth onset.

Communication skills to develop trusting relationships on global virtual engineering capstone teams

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zaugg, Holt; Davies, Randall S.

2013-05-01

As universities seek to provide cost-effective, cross-cultural experiences using global virtual (GV) teams, the 'soft' communication skills typical of all teams, increases in importance for GV teams. Students need to be taught how to navigate through cultural issues and virtual tool issues to build strong trusting relationships with distant team members. Weekly team meetings provide an excellent opportunity to observe key team interactions that facilitate relationship and trust-building among team members. This study observed the weekly team meetings of engineering students attending two US universities and one Asian university as they collaborated as a single GV capstone GV team. In addition local team members were interviewed individually and collectively throughout the project to determine strategies that facilitated team relations and trust. Findings indicate the importance of student choice of virtual communication tools, the refining of communication practices, and specific actions to build trusting relationships. As student developed these attributes, collaboration and success was experienced on this GV team.

Precision Measurement of the Helium Flux in Primary Cosmic Rays of Rigidities 1.9 GV to 3 TV with the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer on the International Space Station

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aguilar, M.; Aisa, D.; Alpat, B.; Alvino, A.; Ambrosi, G.; Andeen, K.; Arruda, L.; Attig, N.; Azzarello, P.; Bachlechner, A.; Barao, F.; Barrau, A.; Barrin, L.; Bartoloni, A.; Basara, L.; Battarbee, M.; Battiston, R.; Bazo, J.; Becker, U.; Behlmann, M.; Beischer, B.; Berdugo, J.; Bertucci, B.; Bindi, V.; Bizzaglia, S.; Bizzarri, M.; Boella, G.; de Boer, W.; Bollweg, K.; Bonnivard, V.; Borgia, B.; Borsini, S.; Boschini, M. J.; Bourquin, M.; Burger, J.; Cadoux, F.; Cai, X. D.; Capell, M.; Caroff, S.; Casaus, J.; Castellini, G.; Cernuda, I.; Cerreta, D.; Cervelli, F.; Chae, M. J.; Chang, Y. H.; Chen, A. I.; Chen, G. M.; Chen, H.; Chen, H. S.; Cheng, L.; Chou, H. Y.; Choumilov, E.; Choutko, V.; Chung, C. H.; Clark, C.; Clavero, R.; Coignet, G.; Consolandi, C.; Contin, A.; Corti, C.; Gil, E. Cortina; Coste, B.; Creus, W.; Crispoltoni, M.; Cui, Z.; Dai, Y. M.; Delgado, C.; Della Torre, S.; Demirköz, M. B.; Derome, L.; Di Falco, S.; Di Masso, L.; Dimiccoli, F.; Díaz, C.; von Doetinchem, P.; Donnini, F.; Duranti, M.; D'Urso, D.; Egorov, A.; Eline, A.; Eppling, F. J.; Eronen, T.; Fan, Y. Y.; Farnesini, L.; Feng, J.; Fiandrini, E.; Fiasson, A.; Finch, E.; Fisher, P.; Formato, V.; Galaktionov, Y.; Gallucci, G.; García, B.; García-López, R.; Gargiulo, C.; Gast, H.; Gebauer, I.; Gervasi, M.; Ghelfi, A.; Giovacchini, F.; Goglov, P.; Gong, J.; Goy, C.; Grabski, V.; Grandi, D.; Graziani, M.; Guandalini, C.; Guerri, I.; Guo, K. H.; Haas, D.; Habiby, M.; Haino, S.; Han, K. C.; He, Z. H.; Heil, M.; Hoffman, J.; Hsieh, T. H.; Huang, Z. C.; Huh, C.; Incagli, M.; Ionica, M.; Jang, W. Y.; Jinchi, H.; Kanishev, K.; Kim, G. N.; Kim, K. S.; Kirn, Th.; Korkmaz, M. A.; Kossakowski, R.; Kounina, O.; Kounine, A.; Koutsenko, V.; Krafczyk, M. S.; La Vacca, G.; Laudi, E.; Laurenti, G.; Lazzizzera, I.; Lebedev, A.; Lee, H. T.; Lee, S. C.; Leluc, C.; Li, H. L.; Li, J. Q.; Li, J. Q.; Li, Q.; Li, Q.; Li, T. X.; Li, W.; Li, Y.; Li, Z. H.; Li, Z. Y.; Lim, S.; Lin, C. H.; Lipari, P.; Lippert, T.; Liu, D.; Liu, H.; Liu, Hu; Lolli, M.; Lomtadze, T.; Lu, M. J.; Lu, S. Q.; Lu, Y. S.; Luebelsmeyer, K.; Luo, F.; Luo, J. Z.; Lv, S. S.; Majka, R.; Mañá, C.; Marín, J.; Martin, T.; Martínez, G.; Masi, N.; Maurin, D.; Menchaca-Rocha, A.; Meng, Q.; Mo, D. C.; Morescalchi, L.; Mott, P.; Müller, M.; Nelson, T.; Ni, J. Q.; Nikonov, N.; Nozzoli, F.; Nunes, P.; Obermeier, A.; Oliva, A.; Orcinha, M.; Palmonari, F.; Palomares, C.; Paniccia, M.; Papi, A.; Pauluzzi, M.; Pedreschi, E.; Pensotti, S.; Pereira, R.; Picot-Clemente, N.; Pilo, F.; Piluso, A.; Pizzolotto, C.; Plyaskin, V.; Pohl, M.; Poireau, V.; Putze, A.; Quadrani, L.; Qi, X. M.; Qin, X.; Qu, Z. Y.; Räihä, T.; Rancoita, P. G.; Rapin, D.; Ricol, J. S.; Rodríguez, I.; Rosier-Lees, S.; Rozhkov, A.; Rozza, D.; Sagdeev, R.; Sandweiss, J.; Saouter, P.; Schael, S.; Schmidt, S. M.; von Dratzig, A. Schulz; Schwering, G.; Scolieri, G.; Seo, E. S.; Shan, B. S.; Shan, Y. H.; Shi, J. Y.; Shi, X. Y.; Shi, Y. M.; Siedenburg, T.; Son, D.; Song, J. W.; Spada, F.; Spinella, F.; Sun, W.; Sun, W. H.; Tacconi, M.; Tang, C. P.; Tang, X. W.; Tang, Z. C.; Tao, L.; Tescaro, D.; Ting, Samuel C. C.; Ting, S. M.; Tomassetti, N.; Torsti, J.; Türkoǧlu, C.; Urban, T.; Vagelli, V.; Valente, E.; Vannini, C.; Valtonen, E.; Vaurynovich, S.; Vecchi, M.; Velasco, M.; Vialle, J. P.; Vitale, V.; Vitillo, S.; Wang, L. Q.; Wang, N. H.; Wang, Q. L.; Wang, R. S.; Wang, X.; Wang, Z. X.; Weng, Z. L.; Whitman, K.; Wienkenhöver, J.; Willenbrock, M.; Wu, H.; Wu, X.; Xia, X.; Xie, M.; Xie, S.; Xiong, R. Q.; Xu, N. S.; Xu, W.; Yan, Q.; Yang, J.; Yang, M.; Yang, Y.; Ye, Q. H.; Yi, H.; Yu, Y. J.; Yu, Z. Q.; Zeissler, S.; Zhang, C.; Zhang, J. H.; Zhang, M. T.; Zhang, S. D.; Zhang, S. W.; Zhang, X. B.; Zhang, Z.; Zheng, Z. M.; Zhuang, H. L.; Zhukov, V.; Zichichi, A.; Zimmermann, N.; Zuccon, P.; AMS Collaboration

2015-11-01

Knowledge of the precise rigidity dependence of the helium flux is important in understanding the origin, acceleration, and propagation of cosmic rays. A precise measurement of the helium flux in primary cosmic rays with rigidity (momentum/charge) from 1.9 GV to 3 TV based on 50 million events is presented and compared to the proton flux. The detailed variation with rigidity of the helium flux spectral index is presented for the first time. The spectral index progressively hardens at rigidities larger than 100 GV. The rigidity dependence of the helium flux spectral index is similar to that of the proton spectral index though the magnitudes are different. Remarkably, the spectral index of the proton to helium flux ratio increases with rigidity up to 45 GV and then becomes constant; the flux ratio above 45 GV is well described by a single power law.

Human mesenchymal stromal cells attenuate graft-versus-host disease and maintain graft-versus-leukemia activity following experimental allogeneic bone marrow transplantation1

PubMed Central

Auletta, Jeffery J.; Eid, Saada K.; Wuttisarnwattana, Patiwet; Silva, Ines; Metheny, Leland; Keller, Matthew D.; Guardia-Wolff, Rocio; Liu, Chen; Wang, Fangjing; Bowen, Theodore; Lee, Zhenghong; Solchaga, Luis A.; Ganguly, Sudipto; Tyler, Megan; Wilson, David L.; Cooke, Kenneth R.

2014-01-01

We sought to define the effects and underlying mechanisms of human, marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (hMSCs) on graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) and graft-versus-leukemia (GvL) activity. Irradiated B6D2F1 mice given C57BL/6 BM and splenic T-cells and treated with hMSCs had reduced systemic GvHD, donor T-cell expansion, and serum TNFα and IFNγ levels. Bioluminescence imaging demonstrated that hMSCs redistributed from lungs to abdominal organs within 72h; and target tissues harvested from hMSC-treated alloBMT mice had less GvHD than untreated controls. Cryo-imaging more precisely revealed that hMSCs preferentially distributed to splenic marginal zones and regulated T-cell expansion in the white pulp. Importantly, hMSCs had no effect on in vitro cytotoxic T-cell activity and preserved potent GvL effects in vivo. Mixed leukocyte cultures containing hMSCs exhibited decreased T-cell proliferation, reduced TNFα, IFNγ, and IL-10, but increased PGE2 levels. Indomethacin and E-prostanoid 2 (EP2) receptor antagonisms both reversed while EP2 agonism restored hMSC-mediated in vitro T-cell suppression, confirming the role for PGE2. Furthermore, cyclo-oxygenase inhibition following alloBMT abrogated the protective effects of hMSCs. Together, our data show that hMSCs preserve GvL activity and attenuate GvHD and reveal that hMSC biodistribute to secondary lymphoid organs wherein they attenuate alloreactive T-cell proliferation likely through PGE2 induction. PMID:25336340

Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001 and Lactobacillus acidophilus La-14 Attenuate Gardnerella vaginalis-Infected Bacterial Vaginosis in Mice

PubMed Central

Jang, Se-Eun; Jeong, Jin-Ju; Choi, Su-Young; Kim, Hyunji; Han, Myung Joo; Kim, Dong-Hyun

2017-01-01

Oral administration of a probiotic mixture (PM; Respecta®) consisting of Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001 (L1), Lactobacillus acidophilus La-14 (L2), and lactoferrin RCXTM results in colonization of these probiotics in the vagina of healthy women. Therefore, we examined whether vaginal colonization of the PM ingredients L1 and L2 could attenuate bacterial vaginosis (BV). BV was induced in mice via β-estradiol-3-benzoate-induced immunosuppression and intravaginal inoculation with Gardnerella vaginalis (GV). Inflammatory markers were analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, immunoblotting, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and flow cytometry. Oral or intravaginal administration of PM resulted in colonization of L1 and L2 in the vagina. Oral or intravaginal administration of L1, L2, or PM significantly inhibited GV-induced epithelial cell disruption, myeloperoxidase activity, NF-κB activation, and IL-1β and TNF-α expression (p < 0.05). Administration of these probiotics also inhibited IL-17 and RORγt expression but increased IL-10 and Foxp3 expression. Of these probiotics, L2 most effectively attenuated GV-induced BV, followed by L1 and PM. Oral administration was more effective against GV-induced BV than intravaginal administration. L1 and L2 also significantly inhibited the adherence of GV to HeLa cells (a human cervical cancer cell line) and GV growth in vitro. In addition, L1 and L2 inhibited lipopolysaccharide-induced NF-κB activation in macrophages and the differentiation of splenocytes into Th17 cells in vitro, but increased their differentiation into Treg cells. Our study suggests that L1, L2, and PM attenuated GV-induced vaginosis by regulating both vaginal and systemic innate and adaptive immune responses rather than direct competition or killing of GV in the vagina. PMID:28545241

The effects of gender violence/ harassment prevention programming in middle schools: a randomized experimental evaluation.

PubMed

Taylor, Bruce; Stein, Nan; Burden, Frances

2010-01-01

In this experiment, 123 sixth and seventh grade classrooms from Cleveland area schools were randomly assigned to one of two five-session curricula addressing gender violence/ sexual harassment (GV/SH) or to a no-treatment control. Three-student surveys were administered. Students in the law and justice curricula, compared to the control group, had significantly improved outcomes in awareness of their abusive behaviors, attitudes toward GV/SH and personal space, and knowledge. Students in the interaction curricula experienced lower rates of victimization, increased awareness of abusive behaviors, and improved attitudes toward personal space. Neither curricula affected perpetration or victimization of sexual harassment. While the intervention appeared to reduce peer violence victimization and perpetration, a conflicting finding emerged-the intervention may have increased dating violence perpetration (or at least the reporting of it) but not dating violence victimization.

The GALAXIE all-optical FEL project

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rosenzweig, J. B.; Arab, E.; Andonian, G.; Cahill, A.; Fitzmorris, K.; Fukusawa, A.; Hoang, P.; Jovanovic, I.; Marcus, G.; Marinelli, A.; Murokh, A.; Musumeci, P.; Naranjo, B.; O'Shea, B.; O'Shea, F.; Ovodenko, A.; Pogorelsky, I.; Putterman, S.; Roberts, K.; Shumail, M.; Tantawi, S.; Valloni, A.; Yakimenko, V.; Xu, G.

2012-12-01

We describe a comprehensive project, funded under the DARPA AXiS program, to develop an all-optical table-top X-ray FEL based on dielectric acceleration and electromagnetic undulators, yielding a compact source of coherent X-rays for medical and related applications. The compactness of this source demands that high field (>GV/m) acceleration and undulation-inducing fields be employed, thus giving rise to the project's acronym: GV/m AcceLerator And X-ray Integrated Experiment (GALAXIE). There are numerous physics and technical hurdles to surmount in this ambitious scenario, and the integrated solutions include: a biharmonic photonic TW structure, 200 micron wavelength electromagnetic undulators, 5 μm laser development, ultra-high brighness magnetized/asymmetric emittance electron beam generation, and SASE FEL operation. We describe the overall design philosophy of the project, the innovative approaches to addressing the challenges presented by the design, and the significant progress towards realization of these approaches in the nine months since project initialization.

Flight Research and Validation Formerly Experimental Capabilities Supersonic Project

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Banks, Daniel

2009-01-01

This slide presentation reviews the work of the Experimental Capabilities Supersonic project, that is being reorganized into Flight Research and Validation. The work of Experimental Capabilities Project in FY '09 is reviewed, and the specific centers that is assigned to do the work is given. The portfolio of the newly formed Flight Research and Validation (FRV) group is also reviewed. The various projects for FY '10 for the FRV are detailed. These projects include: Eagle Probe, Channeled Centerbody Inlet Experiment (CCIE), Supersonic Boundary layer Transition test (SBLT), Aero-elastic Test Wing-2 (ATW-2), G-V External Vision Systems (G5 XVS), Air-to-Air Schlieren (A2A), In Flight Background Oriented Schlieren (BOS), Dynamic Inertia Measurement Technique (DIM), and Advanced In-Flight IR Thermography (AIR-T).

Plug-Assisted Retrograde Transvenous Obliteration for the Treatment of Gastric Varices: The Role of Intra-Procedural Cone-Beam Computed Tomography

PubMed Central

Ko, Gi-Young; Kwon, Young Baek; Yoon, Hyun-Ki; Sung, Kyu-Bo

2018-01-01

Objective To investigate the technical and clinical outcomes of plug-assisted retrograde transvenous obliteration (PARTO) for the treatment of gastric varices (GV) and to evaluate the role of intra-procedural cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) performed during PARTO to confirm its technical success. Materials and Methods From January 2016 to December 2016, 17 patients with GV who had undergone PARTO were retrospectively evaluated. When the proximal part of the afferent vein was identified on a fluoroscopy, non-contrast CBCT images were obtained. In patients with incomplete embolization of GV, an additional injection of gelatin sponges was performed. Follow-up data from contrast-enhanced CT and upper intestinal endoscopy, as well as clinical and laboratory data were collected. Results Plug-assisted retrograde transvenous obliteration procedures were technically successful in all 17 patients. Complete embolization of GV was detected on CBCT images in 15 patients; whereas, incomplete embolization was detected in two. Complete embolization of GV was then achieved after an additional injection of gelatin sponges in these two patients as demonstrated on the 2nd CBCT image. The mean follow-up period after PARTO was 193 days (range, 73–383 days). A follow-up CT obtained 2–4 months after PARTO demonstrated marked shrinkage or complete obliteration of GV and portosystemic shunts in all 17 patients. There were no cases of variceal bleeding during the follow-up. Conclusion Plug-assisted retrograde transvenous obliteration is technically and clinically effective for the treatment of GV. In addition, intra-procedural CBCT can be an adjunct tool to fluoroscopy, because it can provide an immediate and accurate evaluation of the technical success of PARTO. PMID:29520179

The Latin American experience of allografting patients with severe aplastic anaemia: real-world data on the impact of stem cell source and ATG administration in HLA-identical sibling transplants.

PubMed

Gómez-Almaguer, D; Vázquez-Mellado, A; Navarro-Cabrera, J R; Abello-Polo, V; Milovic, V; García, J; Basquiera, A L; Saba, S; Balladares, G; Vela-Ojeda, J; Gómez, S; Karduss-Aurueta, A; Bustinza-Álvarez, A; Requejo, A; Feldman, L; Jaime-Pérez, J C; Yantorno, S; Kusminsky, G; Gutiérrez-Aguirre, C H; Arbelbide, J; Martinez-Rolon, J; Jarchum, G; Jaimovich, G; Riera, L; Pedraza-Mesa, E; Villamizar-Gómez, L; Herrera-Rojas, M Á; Gamboa-Alonso, M M; Foncuberta, C; Rodríguez-González, G; García Ruiz-Esparza, M A; Hernández-Maldonado, E; Paz-Infanzón, M; González-López, E; Ruiz-Argüelles, G J

2017-01-01

We studied 298 patients with severe aplastic anaemia (SAA) allografted in four Latin American countries. The source of cells was bone marrow (BM) in 94 patients and PBSCs in 204 patients. Engraftment failed in 8.1% of recipients with no difference between BM and PBSCs (P=0.08). Incidence of acute GvHD (aGvHD) for BM and PBSCs was 30% vs 32% (P=0.18), and for grades III-IV was 2.6% vs 11.6% (P=0.01). Chronic GvHD (cGvHD) between BM and PBSCs was 37% vs 59% (P=0.002) and extensive 5% vs 23.6% (P=0.01). OS was 74% vs 76% for BM vs PBSCs (P=0.95). Event-free survival was superior in patients conditioned with anti-thymocyte globulin (ATG)-based regimens compared with other regimens (79% vs 61%, P=0.001) as excessive secondary graft failure was seen with other regimens (10% vs 26%, P=0.005) respectively. In multivariate analysis, aGvHD II-IV (hazard ratio (HR) 2.50, confidence interval (CI) 1.1-5.6, P=0.02) and aGvHD III-IV (HR 8.3 CI 3.4-20.2, P<0.001) proved to be independent negative predictors of survival. In conclusion, BM as a source of cells and ATG-based regimens should be standard because of higher GvHD incidence with PBSCs, although the latter combining with ATG in the conditioning regimen could be an option in selected high-risk patients.

Topical gentian violet compared to nystatin oral suspension for the treatment of oropharyngeal candidiasis in HIV-1 Infected participants

PubMed Central

Mukherjee, Pranab K; Chen, Huichao; Patton, Lauren L; Evans, Scott; Lee, Anthony; Kumwenda, Johnstone; Hakim, James; Masheto, Gaerolwe; Sawe, Frederick; Pho, Mai T; Freedberg, Kenneth A; Shiboski, Caroline H; Ghannoum, Mahmoud A; Salata, Robert A

2016-01-01

Objective Compare the safety and efficacy of topical gentian violet (GV) to that of nystatin oral suspension (NYS) for the treatment of oropharyngeal candidiasis (OC) in HIV-1 infected adults in resource-limited settings. Design Multicenter, open-label, evaluator-blinded, randomized clinical trial at 8 international sites, within the AIDS Clinical Trials Group. Study participants and Intervention Adult HIV-infected participants with OC, stratified by CD4 cell counts and antiretroviral therapy status at study entry, were randomized to receive either GV (0.00165%, BID) or NYS (500,000 units, QID) for 14 days. Main outcome measure(s) Cure or improvement after 14 days of treatment. Signs and symptoms of OC were evaluated in an evaluator-blinded manner. Results The study was closed early per DSMB after enrolling 221 participants (target = 494). Among the 182 participants eligible for efficacy analysis, 63 (68.5%) in the GV arm had cure or improvement of OC versus 61 (67.8%) in the NYS arm, resulting in a non-sizable difference of 0.007 (95% CI: -0.129, 0.143). There was no sizable difference in cure rates between the two arms (-0.0007; 95% CI: -0.146, 0.131). No GV-related adverse events were noted. No sizable differences were identified in tolerance, adherence, quality of life, or acceptability of study drugs. In GV arm, 61% and 39% of participants reported “no” and “mild-to-moderate” staining, respectively. Cost for medication procurement was significantly lower for GV versus NYS [Median $2.51 and $19.42, respectively, P = 0.01]. Conclusions Efficacy of GV was not statistically different than NYS, was well-tolerated, and its procurement cost was substantially less than NYS. PMID:27677161

Qualitative analysis of subcutaneous Lispro and regular insulin injections for stress hyperglycemia: a pilot numerical study.

PubMed

Strilka, Richard J; Armen, Scott B; Indeck, Matthew C

2014-09-07

Increased glucose variability (GV) is an independent risk factor for mortality in the critically ill; unfortunately, the optimal insulin therapy that minimizes GV is not known. We simulate the glucose-insulin feedback system to study how stress hyperglycemia (SH) states, taken to be a non-uniform group of physiologic disorders with varying insulin resistance (IR) and similar levels of hyperglycemia, respond to the type and dose of subcutaneous (SQ) insulin. Two groups of 100 virtual patients are studied: those receiving and those not receiving continuous enteral feeds. Stress hyperglycemia was facilitated by doubling the gluconeogenesis rate and IR was stepwise varied from a borderline to a high value. Lispro and regular insulin were simulated with dosages that ranged from 0 to 6 units; the resulting GV was analyzed after each insulin injection. The numerical model used consists of a set of non-linear differential equations with two time delays and five adjustable parameters. The results show that regular insulin decreased GV in both patient groups and rarely caused hypoglycemia. With continuous enteral feeds and borderline to mild IR, Lispro showed minimal effect on GV; however, rebound hyperglycemia that increased GV occurred when the IR was moderate to high. Without a nutritional source, Lispro worsened GV through frequent hypoglycemia episodes as the injection dose increased. The inferior performance of Lispro is a result of its rapid absorption profile; half of its duration of action is similar to the glucose ultradian period. Clinical trials are needed to examine whether these numerical results represent the glucose-insulin dynamics that occur in intensive care units, and if such dynamics are present, their clinical effects should be evaluated. Copyright © 2014 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Plutella xylostella granulovirus late gene promoter activity in the context of the Autographa californica multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus genome.

PubMed

Ren, He-Lin; Hu, Yuan; Guo, Ya-Jun; Li, Lu-Lin

2016-06-01

Within Baculoviridae, little is known about the molecular mechanisms of replication in betabaculoviruses, despite extensive studies in alphabaculoviruses. In this study, the promoters of nine late genes of the betabaculovirus Plutella xylostella granulovirus (PlxyGV) were cloned into a transient expression vector and the alphabaculovirus Autographa californica multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus (AcMNPV) genome, and compared with homologous late gene promoters of AcMNPV in Sf9 cells. In transient expression assays, all PlxyGV late promoters were activated in cells transfected with the individual reporter plasmids together with an AcMNPV bacmid. In infected cells, reporter gene expression levels with the promoters of PlxyGV e18 and AcMNPV vp39 and gp41 were significantly higher than those of the corresponding AcMNPV or PlxyGV promoters, which had fewer late promoter motifs. Observed expression levels were lower for the PlxyGV p6.9, pk1, gran, p10a, and p10b promoters than for the corresponding AcMNPV promoters, despite equal numbers of late promoter motifs, indicating that species-specific elements contained in some late promoters were favored by the native viral RNA polymerases for optimal transcription. The 8-nt sequence TAAATAAG encompassing the ATAAG motif was conserved in the AcMNPV polh, p10, and pk1 promoters. The 5-nt sequence CAATT located 4 or 5 nt upstream of the T/ATAAG motif was conserved in the promoters of PlxyGV gran, p10c, and pk1. The results of this study demonstrated that PlxyGV late gene promoters could be effectively activated by the RNA polymerase from AcMNPV, implying that late gene expression systems are regulated by similar mechanisms in alphabaculoviruses and betabaculoviruses.

Long-term safety and efficacy of autologous platelet lysate drops for treatment of ocular GvHD.

PubMed

Pezzotta, S; Del Fante, C; Scudeller, L; Rossi, G C; Perotti, C; Bianchi, P E; Antoniazzi, E

2017-01-01

Current ocular GvHD (oGvHD) treatments are suboptimal. We investigated the safety and efficacy of long-term continuous treatment with autologous platelet lysate (PL) drops in patients with oGvHD Dry Eye Syndrome (DES) score 2-3 refractory to topical conventional therapy. Ophthalmic evaluation was performed at 6 month intervals. Symptoms were assessed using the Glaucoma Symptom Scale (GSS). Patients were defined 'responders' when showing a reduction at least one grade on National Institutes of Health Eye Score from baseline at the 6 month visit. Thirty-one patients were included, and 16 (51%) completed 36 months of follow-up (range 6.5-72.7). At 6 months all patients were classified as responders: median GSS symptom score decreased from 70 to 41 (33 at 36 months), median GSS function score reduced from 68 to 46 (33 at 36 months) (all P<0.001). Median Tear Break Up Time improved from 3 to 6 s after 6 months and was maintained over time. All signs improved at 6 and 36 months (clinical and statistical significance). No severe adverse events occurred. Long-term treatment with PL drops is secure and effective for oGvHD and can be an efficient therapy option from initial stages of oGvHD to prevent permanent ocular impairment and improving quality of life.

Analysis of multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells used for acute graft-versus-host disease prophylaxis.

PubMed

Kuzmina, Larisa A; Petinati, Nataliya A; Shipounova, Irina N; Sats, Natalia V; Bigildeev, Alexey E; Zezina, Ekaterina A; Popova, Maria D; Drize, Nina J; Parovichnikova, Elena N; Savchenko, Valery G

2016-04-01

Multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are used for prophylaxis of acute graft-versus-host disease (aGvHD) after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT). Not all samples of MSC are efficient for aGvHD prevention. The suitability of MSCs for aGvHD prophylaxis was studied. MSCs were derived from the bone marrow (BM) of HCT donor and cultivated for no more than three passages. The characteristics of donor BM samples including colony-forming unit fibroblast (CFU-F) concentration, growth parameters of MSCs, and the relative expression levels (REL) of different genes were analyzed. MSCs were injected intravenously precisely at the moment of blood cell reconstitution. MSCs infusion induced a significant threefold decrease in aGvHD development and improved overall survival compared with the standard prophylaxis group. In ineffective MSC samples (9.4%), a significant decrease in total cell production and the REL of CSF1, FGFR1, and PDGFRB was observed. In all studied BM samples, the cumulative MSC production and CFU-F concentrations decreased with age. The expression levels of FGFR2, PPARG, and VEGF differed by age. A universal single indicator for the prediction of MSC eligibility for aGvHD prophylaxis was not identified. A multiparameter mathematical model for selecting MSC samples effective for the prevention of aGvHD was proposed. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

A comparison of GlideScope(®) videolaryngoscopy and direct laryngoscopy for nasotracheal intubation in children.

PubMed

Kim, Hyun-Jung; Kim, Jin-Tae; Kim, Hee-Soo; Kim, Chong-Sung; Kim, Seong-Deok

2011-04-01

The relative effectiveness of GlideScope(®) videolaryngoscopy (GV) for nasotracheal intubation in pediatric patients is unclear. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the usefulness of GV for nasotracheal intubation compared with direct laryngoscopy (DL) in pediatric patients. Our patient cohort consisted of 80 children <10 years of age who required nasotracheal intubation for elective dental or facial surgery. The patients were randomly allocated to GV (n = 40) or DL (n = 40) group. The time to intubation (TTI), glottic view grade, frequency of Magill forceps use, and degree of difficulty in intubation were evaluated. The median TTI was similar between the groups. The TTI of the former 20 patients was faster in the DL group (53.3 s, interquartile range: 42.0-64.3) than GV group (65.9 s, interquartile range: 56.0-93.9) (P = 0.007), whereas the TTI of the latter 20 patients was comparable between the groups. There were no significant differences in glottic view grade, frequency of Magill forceps use, and degree of difficulty in intubation between the two groups. GV can provide similar intubation performance characteristics compared with DL when used for nasotracheal intubation in pediatric patients. However, experience is needed to be skillful in the GV to acquire comparable TTI with DL. © 2011 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Amino acid substitutions in the VanS sensor of the VanA-type vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus strains result in high-level vancomycin resistance and low-level teicoplanin resistance.

PubMed

Hashimoto, Y; Tanimoto, K; Ozawa, Y; Murata, T; Ike, Y

2000-04-15

The vancomycin-resistant enterococci GV1, GV2 and GV3, which were isolated from droppings from broiler farms in Japan have been characterized as VanA-type VRE, which express high-level vancomycin resistance (256 or 512 microg ml(-1), MIC) and low-level teicoplanin resistance (1 or 2 microg ml(-1), MIC). The vancomycin resistances were encoded on plasmids. The vancomycin resistance conjugative plasmid pMG2 was isolated from the GV2 strain. The VanA determinant of pMG2 showed the same genetic organization as that of the VanA genes encoded on the representative transposon Tn1546, which comprises vanRSHAXYZ. The nucleotide sequences of all the genes, except the gene related to the vanS gene on Tn1546, were completely identical to the genes encoded on Tn1546. Three amino acid substitutions in the N-terminal region of the deduced VanS were detected in the nucleotide sequence of vanS encoded on pMG2. There were also three amino acid substitutions in the vanS gene of the GV1 and GV3 strains in the same positions as in the vanS gene of pMG2. Vancomycin induced the increased teicoplanin resistance in these strains.

A Clinician’s Guide to the Diagnosis and Management of Gallbladder Volvulus

PubMed Central

Pottorf, Brian J; Alfaro, Leonardo; Hollis, Harris W

2013-01-01

Introduction: Gallbladder volvulus (GV), or torsion of the gallbladder, is an uncommon surgical emergency. This article reviews the world literature related to GV. We examine the history of gallbladder torsion and highlight the critical constellation of presenting signs and symptoms, which guide the acute care physician and surgeon to accurate and timely diagnosis of GV before surgical intervention. Methods: A comprehensive review of all published cases of GV was performed using the National Library of Medicine (PubMed) database. Results: Lists of typical symptoms and clinical presentations are provided to allow clinicians to establish an accurate preoperative diagnosis. Conclusion: GV is frequently undiagnosed before surgical intervention. However, clinical presentation and associated radiographic findings can lead to an accurate diagnosis if the clinician is aware of this uncommon condition. When the diagnosis has been established before operative intervention, expeditious laparoscopic cholecystectomy can be performed safely. Delays in diagnosis may mandate open cholecystectomy if laparoscopic extraction is contraindicated because of undesirable sequelae of gallbladder necrosis, specifically perforation, bilious peritonitis, and hemodynamic instability. PMID:23704849

Observation of New Properties of Secondary Cosmic Rays Lithium, Beryllium, and Boron by the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer on the International Space Station.

PubMed

Aguilar, M; Ali Cavasonza, L; Ambrosi, G; Arruda, L; Attig, N; Aupetit, S; Azzarello, P; Bachlechner, A; Barao, F; Barrau, A; Barrin, L; Bartoloni, A; Basara, L; Başeğmez-du Pree, S; Battarbee, M; Battiston, R; Becker, U; Behlmann, M; Beischer, B; Berdugo, J; Bertucci, B; Bindel, K F; Bindi, V; de Boer, W; Bollweg, K; Bonnivard, V; Borgia, B; Boschini, M J; Bourquin, M; Bueno, E F; Burger, J; Burger, W J; Cadoux, F; Cai, X D; Capell, M; Caroff, S; Casaus, J; Castellini, G; Cervelli, F; Chae, M J; Chang, Y H; Chen, A I; Chen, G M; Chen, H S; Cheng, L; Chou, H Y; Choumilov, E; Choutko, V; Chung, C H; Clark, C; Clavero, R; Coignet, G; Consolandi, C; Contin, A; Corti, C; Creus, W; Crispoltoni, M; Cui, Z; Dadzie, K; Dai, Y M; Datta, A; Delgado, C; Della Torre, S; Demirköz, M B; Derome, L; Di Falco, S; Dimiccoli, F; Díaz, C; von Doetinchem, P; Dong, F; Donnini, F; Duranti, M; D'Urso, D; Egorov, A; Eline, A; Eronen, T; Feng, J; Fiandrini, E; Fisher, P; Formato, V; Galaktionov, Y; Gallucci, G; García-López, R J; Gargiulo, C; Gast, H; Gebauer, I; Gervasi, M; Ghelfi, A; Giovacchini, F; Gómez-Coral, D M; Gong, J; Goy, C; Grabski, V; Grandi, D; Graziani, M; Guo, K H; Haino, S; Han, K C; He, Z H; Heil, M; Hsieh, T H; Huang, H; Huang, Z C; Huh, C; Incagli, M; Ionica, M; Jang, W Y; Jia, Yi; Jinchi, H; Kang, S C; Kanishev, K; Khiali, B; Kim, G N; Kim, K S; Kirn, Th; Konak, C; Kounina, O; Kounine, A; Koutsenko, V; Kulemzin, A; La Vacca, G; Laudi, E; Laurenti, G; Lazzizzera, I; Lebedev, A; Lee, H T; Lee, S C; Leluc, C; Li, H S; Li, J Q; Li, Q; Li, T X; Li, Y; Li, Z H; Li, Z Y; Lim, S; Lin, C H; Lipari, P; Lippert, T; Liu, D; Liu, Hu; Lordello, V D; Lu, S Q; Lu, Y S; Luebelsmeyer, K; Luo, F; Luo, J Z; Lyu, S S; Machate, F; Mañá, C; Marín, J; Martin, T; Martínez, G; Masi, N; Maurin, D; Menchaca-Rocha, A; Meng, Q; Mikuni, V M; Mo, D C; Mott, P; Nelson, T; Ni, J Q; Nikonov, N; Nozzoli, F; Oliva, A; Orcinha, M; Palermo, M; Palmonari, F; Palomares, C; Paniccia, M; Pauluzzi, M; Pensotti, S; Perrina, C; Phan, H D; Picot-Clemente, N; Pilo, F; Pizzolotto, C; Plyaskin, V; Pohl, M; Poireau, V; Quadrani, L; Qi, X M; Qin, X; Qu, Z Y; Räihä, T; Rancoita, P G; Rapin, D; Ricol, J S; Rosier-Lees, S; Rozhkov, A; Rozza, D; Sagdeev, R; Schael, S; Schmidt, S M; Schulz von Dratzig, A; Schwering, G; Seo, E S; Shan, B S; Shi, J Y; Siedenburg, T; Son, D; Song, J W; Tacconi, M; Tang, X W; Tang, Z C; Tescaro, D; Ting, Samuel C C; Ting, S M; Tomassetti, N; Torsti, J; Türkoğlu, C; Urban, T; Vagelli, V; Valente, E; Valtonen, E; Vázquez Acosta, M; Vecchi, M; Velasco, M; Vialle, J P; Vitale, V; Wang, L Q; Wang, N H; Wang, Q L; Wang, X; Wang, X Q; Wang, Z X; Wei, C C; Weng, Z L; Whitman, K; Wu, H; Wu, X; Xiong, R Q; Xu, W; Yan, Q; Yang, J; Yang, M; Yang, Y; Yi, H; Yu, Y J; Yu, Z Q; Zannoni, M; Zeissler, S; Zhang, C; Zhang, F; Zhang, J; Zhang, J H; Zhang, S W; Zhang, Z; Zheng, Z M; Zhuang, H L; Zhukov, V; Zichichi, A; Zimmermann, N; Zuccon, P

2018-01-12

We report on the observation of new properties of secondary cosmic rays Li, Be, and B measured in the rigidity (momentum per unit charge) range 1.9 GV to 3.3 TV with a total of 5.4×10^{6} nuclei collected by AMS during the first five years of operation aboard the International Space Station. The Li and B fluxes have an identical rigidity dependence above 7 GV and all three fluxes have an identical rigidity dependence above 30 GV with the Li/Be flux ratio of 2.0±0.1. The three fluxes deviate from a single power law above 200 GV in an identical way. This behavior of secondary cosmic rays has also been observed in the AMS measurement of primary cosmic rays He, C, and O but the rigidity dependences of primary cosmic rays and of secondary cosmic rays are distinctly different. In particular, above 200 GV, the secondary cosmic rays harden more than the primary cosmic rays.

Observation of New Properties of Secondary Cosmic Rays Lithium, Beryllium, and Boron by the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer on the International Space Station

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aguilar, M.; Ali Cavasonza, L.; Ambrosi, G.; Arruda, L.; Attig, N.; Aupetit, S.; Azzarello, P.; Bachlechner, A.; Barao, F.; Barrau, A.; Barrin, L.; Bartoloni, A.; Basara, L.; Başeǧmez-du Pree, S.; Battarbee, M.; Battiston, R.; Becker, U.; Behlmann, M.; Beischer, B.; Berdugo, J.; Bertucci, B.; Bindel, K. F.; Bindi, V.; de Boer, W.; Bollweg, K.; Bonnivard, V.; Borgia, B.; Boschini, M. J.; Bourquin, M.; Bueno, E. F.; Burger, J.; Burger, W. J.; Cadoux, F.; Cai, X. D.; Capell, M.; Caroff, S.; Casaus, J.; Castellini, G.; Cervelli, F.; Chae, M. J.; Chang, Y. H.; Chen, A. I.; Chen, G. M.; Chen, H. S.; Cheng, L.; Chou, H. Y.; Choumilov, E.; Choutko, V.; Chung, C. H.; Clark, C.; Clavero, R.; Coignet, G.; Consolandi, C.; Contin, A.; Corti, C.; Creus, W.; Crispoltoni, M.; Cui, Z.; Dadzie, K.; Dai, Y. M.; Datta, A.; Delgado, C.; Della Torre, S.; Demirköz, M. B.; Derome, L.; Di Falco, S.; Dimiccoli, F.; Díaz, C.; von Doetinchem, P.; Dong, F.; Donnini, F.; Duranti, M.; D'Urso, D.; Egorov, A.; Eline, A.; Eronen, T.; Feng, J.; Fiandrini, E.; Fisher, P.; Formato, V.; Galaktionov, Y.; Gallucci, G.; García-López, R. J.; Gargiulo, C.; Gast, H.; Gebauer, I.; Gervasi, M.; Ghelfi, A.; Giovacchini, F.; Gómez-Coral, D. M.; Gong, J.; Goy, C.; Grabski, V.; Grandi, D.; Graziani, M.; Guo, K. H.; Haino, S.; Han, K. C.; He, Z. H.; Heil, M.; Hsieh, T. H.; Huang, H.; Huang, Z. C.; Huh, C.; Incagli, M.; Ionica, M.; Jang, W. Y.; Jia, Yi; Jinchi, H.; Kang, S. C.; Kanishev, K.; Khiali, B.; Kim, G. N.; Kim, K. S.; Kirn, Th.; Konak, C.; Kounina, O.; Kounine, A.; Koutsenko, V.; Kulemzin, A.; La Vacca, G.; Laudi, E.; Laurenti, G.; Lazzizzera, I.; Lebedev, A.; Lee, H. T.; Lee, S. C.; Leluc, C.; Li, H. S.; Li, J. Q.; Li, Q.; Li, T. X.; Li, Y.; Li, Z. H.; Li, Z. Y.; Lim, S.; Lin, C. H.; Lipari, P.; Lippert, T.; Liu, D.; Liu, Hu; Lordello, V. D.; Lu, S. Q.; Lu, Y. S.; Luebelsmeyer, K.; Luo, F.; Luo, J. Z.; Lyu, S. S.; Machate, F.; Mañá, C.; Marín, J.; Martin, T.; Martínez, G.; Masi, N.; Maurin, D.; Menchaca-Rocha, A.; Meng, Q.; Mikuni, V. M.; Mo, D. C.; Mott, P.; Nelson, T.; Ni, J. Q.; Nikonov, N.; Nozzoli, F.; Oliva, A.; Orcinha, M.; Palermo, M.; Palmonari, F.; Palomares, C.; Paniccia, M.; Pauluzzi, M.; Pensotti, S.; Perrina, C.; Phan, H. D.; Picot-Clemente, N.; Pilo, F.; Pizzolotto, C.; Plyaskin, V.; Pohl, M.; Poireau, V.; Quadrani, L.; Qi, X. M.; Qin, X.; Qu, Z. Y.; Räihä, T.; Rancoita, P. G.; Rapin, D.; Ricol, J. S.; Rosier-Lees, S.; Rozhkov, A.; Rozza, D.; Sagdeev, R.; Schael, S.; Schmidt, S. M.; Schulz von Dratzig, A.; Schwering, G.; Seo, E. S.; Shan, B. S.; Shi, J. Y.; Siedenburg, T.; Son, D.; Song, J. W.; Tacconi, M.; Tang, X. W.; Tang, Z. C.; Tescaro, D.; Ting, Samuel C. C.; Ting, S. M.; Tomassetti, N.; Torsti, J.; Türkoǧlu, C.; Urban, T.; Vagelli, V.; Valente, E.; Valtonen, E.; Vázquez Acosta, M.; Vecchi, M.; Velasco, M.; Vialle, J. P.; Vitale, V.; Wang, L. Q.; Wang, N. H.; Wang, Q. L.; Wang, X.; Wang, X. Q.; Wang, Z. X.; Wei, C. C.; Weng, Z. L.; Whitman, K.; Wu, H.; Wu, X.; Xiong, R. Q.; Xu, W.; Yan, Q.; Yang, J.; Yang, M.; Yang, Y.; Yi, H.; Yu, Y. J.; Yu, Z. Q.; Zannoni, M.; Zeissler, S.; Zhang, C.; Zhang, F.; Zhang, J.; Zhang, J. H.; Zhang, S. W.; Zhang, Z.; Zheng, Z. M.; Zhuang, H. L.; Zhukov, V.; Zichichi, A.; Zimmermann, N.; Zuccon, P.; AMS Collaboration

2018-01-01

We report on the observation of new properties of secondary cosmic rays Li, Be, and B measured in the rigidity (momentum per unit charge) range 1.9 GV to 3.3 TV with a total of 5.4 ×106 nuclei collected by AMS during the first five years of operation aboard the International Space Station. The Li and B fluxes have an identical rigidity dependence above 7 GV and all three fluxes have an identical rigidity dependence above 30 GV with the Li /Be flux ratio of 2.0 ±0.1 . The three fluxes deviate from a single power law above 200 GV in an identical way. This behavior of secondary cosmic rays has also been observed in the AMS measurement of primary cosmic rays He, C, and O but the rigidity dependences of primary cosmic rays and of secondary cosmic rays are distinctly different. In particular, above 200 GV, the secondary cosmic rays harden more than the primary cosmic rays.

Bridging Ground Validation and Algorithms: Using Scattering and Integral Tables to Incorporate Observed DSD Correlations into Satellite Algorithms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Williams, C. R.

2012-12-01

The NASA Global Precipitation Mission (GPM) raindrop size distribution (DSD) Working Group is composed of NASA PMM Science Team Members and is charged to "investigate the correlations between DSD parameters using Ground Validation (GV) data sets that support, or guide, the assumptions used in satellite retrieval algorithms." Correlations between DSD parameters can be used to constrain the unknowns and reduce the degrees-of-freedom in under-constrained satellite algorithms. Over the past two years, the GPM DSD Working Group has analyzed GV data and has found correlations between the mass-weighted mean raindrop diameter (Dm) and the mass distribution standard deviation (Sm) that follows a power-law relationship. This Dm-Sm power-law relationship appears to be robust and has been observed in surface disdrometer and vertically pointing radar observations. One benefit of a Dm-Sm power-law relationship is that a three parameter DSD can be modeled with just two parameters: Dm and Nw that determines the DSD amplitude. In order to incorporate observed DSD correlations into satellite algorithms, the GPM DSD Working Group is developing scattering and integral tables that can be used by satellite algorithms. Scattering tables describe the interaction of electromagnetic waves on individual particles to generate cross sections of backscattering, extinction, and scattering. Scattering tables are independent of the distribution of particles. Integral tables combine scattering table outputs with DSD parameters and DSD correlations to generate integrated normalized reflectivity, attenuation, scattering, emission, and asymmetry coefficients. Integral tables contain both frequency dependent scattering properties and cloud microphysics. The GPM DSD Working Group has developed scattering tables for raindrops at both Dual Precipitation Radar (DPR) frequencies and at all GMI radiometer frequencies less than 100 GHz. Scattering tables include Mie and T-matrix scattering with H- and V-polarization at the instrument view angles of nadir to 17 degrees (for DPR) and 48 & 53 degrees off nadir (for GMI). The GPM DSD Working Group is generating integral tables with GV observed DSD correlations and is performing sensitivity and verification tests. One advantage of keeping scattering tables separate from integral tables is that research can progress on the electromagnetic scattering of particles independent of cloud microphysics research. Another advantage of keeping the tables separate is that multiple scattering tables will be needed for frozen precipitation. Scattering tables are being developed for individual frozen particles based on habit, density and operating frequency. And a third advantage of keeping scattering and integral tables separate is that this framework provides an opportunity to communicate GV findings about DSD correlations into integral tables, and thus, into satellite algorithms.

Ixazomib suppresses human dendritic cell and modulates murine graft-versus-host disease in a schedule-dependent fashion.

PubMed

Al-Homsi, Ahmad Samer; Goodyke, Austin; Cole, Kelli; Muilenburg, Marlee; McLane, Michael; Abdel-Mageed, Sarah; Feng, Yuxin

2017-04-01

There is an abiding need for innovative approaches to the prevention of graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Interest in prevention of GvHD by dendritic cell (DC) suppression has re-emerged since the introduction of proteasome inhibitors into clinical practice. Ixazomib is an orally bioavailable proteasome inhibitor with a rapid proteasome dissociation rate. We studied the effects of ixazomib on human DC maturation, viability, and cytokine production in vitro. We also determined the effects of ixazomib in a murine GvHD model. Although ixazomib suppressed naïve human DC maturation, it had only a limited effect on cell viability. Ixazomib decreased pro-inflammatory cytokine production of resting DCs. This effect was diminished or reversed when DCs were pre-stimulated. In vivo, ixazomib administered post-transplantation on days +1 and +4 or days -1, +2, and +5 ameliorated GvHD in comparison to the GvHD group. Although a fraction of mice treated according to the prolonged schedule died abruptly after the day +5 treatment, both schedules resulted in improved overall survival. When we examined the effects of ixazomib on splenic cells and serum cytokines, we found that ixazomib exerted complex schedule-dependent immunomodulatory effects. Our study provides a rationale for the potential use of ixazomib in the prevention of GvHD. Copyright © 2016 ISEH - International Society for Experimental Hematology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Influence of a repulsive vector coupling in magnetized quark matter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Denke, Robson Z.; Pinto, Marcus Benghi

2013-09-01

We consider two flavor magnetized quark matter in the presence of a repulsive vector coupling (GV) devoting special attention to the low temperature region of the phase diagram to show how this type of interaction counterbalances the effects produced by a strong magnetic field. The most important effects occur at intermediate and low temperatures affecting the location of the critical end point as well as the region of first order chiral transitions. When GV=0 the presence of high magnetic fields (eB≥10mπ2) increases the density coexistence region with respect to the case when B and GV are absent while a decrease of this region is observed at high GV values and vanishing magnetic fields. Another interesting aspect observed at the low temperature region is that the usual decrease of the coexistence chemical value (inverse magnetic catalysis) at GV=0 is highly affected by the presence of the vector interaction which acts in the opposite way. Our investigation also shows that the presence of a repulsive vector interaction enhances the de Haas-van Alphen oscillations which, for very low temperatures, take place at eB≲6mπ2. We observe that the presence of a magnetic field, together with a repulsive vector interaction, gives rise to a complex transition pattern since B favors the appearance of multiple solutions to the gap equation whereas GV turns some metastable solutions into stable ones allowing for a cascade of transitions to occur.

Glycovariant anti-CD37 monospecific protein therapeutic exhibits enhanced effector cell-mediated cytotoxicity against chronic and acute B cell malignancies

PubMed Central

Rafiq, Sarwish; Siadak, Anthony; Butchar, Jonathan P.; Cheney, Carolyn; Lozanski, Gerard; Jacob, Naduparambil K.; Lapalombella, Rosa; McGourty, Jackie; Moledor, Meghan; Lowe, Richard; Setter, Ben; Jones, Jeffrey; Flynn, Joseph M.; Andritsos, Leslie; Devine, Steven; Mo, Xiaokui; Jarjoura, David; Tridandapani, Susheela; Algate, Paul; Byrd, John C.; Muthusamy, Natarajan

2013-01-01

TRU-016 is a SMIPTM (monospecific protein therapeutic) molecule against the tetraspanin transmembrane family protein CD37 that is currently in Phase 2 trials in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) and Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL). In an attempt to enhance the ADCC function of SMIP-016, the chimeric version of TRU-016, SMIP-016GV was engineered with a modification in a glycosylation site in the Fc domain. The wild-type and glycovariant SMIP proteins mediate comparable Type I antibody-like direct cytotoxicity in the presence of anti-human Fc crosslinker and show a similar tyrosine phosphorylation pattern post-treatment. However, NK cells stimulated with the SMIP-016GV exhibit enhanced activation and release 3-fold more interferon-γ compared with SMIP-016. SMIP-016GV shows enhanced ADCC function against cells expressing CD37 with NK cell effectors derived from both normal and CLL-affected individuals. Enhanced ADCC is observed against CLL cells and is sustained at concentrations of SMIP-016GV as low at 5E−6 µg/mL on cells expressing minimal CD37 antigen. In support of the biological relevance of this, SMIP-016GV mediates effective ADCC against primary acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) cells with low surface expression of CD37. Collectively, these data suggest potential use of the novel therapeutic agent SMIP-016GV with enhanced effector function for B cell malignancies, including CLL and ALL therapy. PMID:23883821

A Modified Relative Spectral Mixture Analysis to Extract the Fractions of Major Land Cover Components

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jia, S.

2015-12-01

As an effective method of extracting land cover fractions based on spectral endmembers, spectral mixture analysis (SMA) has been applied using remotely sensed imagery in different spatial, temporal, and spectral resolutions. A number of studies focused on arid/semiarid ecosystem have used SMA to obtain the land cover fractions of GV, NPV/litter, and bare soil (BS) using MODIS reflectance products to understand ecosystem phenology, track vegetation dynamics, and evaluate the impact of major disturbances. However, several challenges remain in the application of SMA in studying ecosystem phenology, including obtaining high quality endmembers and increasing computational efficiency when considering to long time series that cover a broad spatial extent. Okin (2007) proposes a variation of SMA, named as relative spectra mixture analysis (RSMA) to address the latter challenge by calculating the relative change of fraction of GV, NPV/litter, and BS compared with a baseline date. This approach assumes that the baseline image contains the spectral information of the bare soil that can be used as an endmember for spectral mixture analysis though it is mixed with the spectral reflectance of other non-soil land cover types. Using the baseline image, one can obtain the change of fractions of GV, NPV/litter, BS, and snow compared with the baseline image. However, RSMA results depend on the selection of baseline date and the fractional components during this date. In this study, we modified the strategy of implementing RSMA by introducing a step of obtaining a soil map as the baseline image using multiple-endmember SMA (MESMA) before applying RSMA. The fractions of land cover components from this modified RSMA are also validated using the field observations from two study area in semiarid savanna and grassland of Queensland, Australia.

Graft-versus-Leukemia Effect Following Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation for Leukemia

PubMed Central

Dickinson, Anne M.; Norden, Jean; Li, Shuang; Hromadnikova, Ilona; Schmid, Christoph; Schmetzer, Helga; Jochem-Kolb, Hans

2017-01-01

The success of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) lies with the ability of the engrafting immune system to remove residual leukemia cells via a graft-versus-leukemia effect (GvL), caused either spontaneously post-HSCT or via donor lymphocyte infusion. GvL effects can also be initiated by allogenic mismatched natural killer cells, antigen-specific T cells, and activated dendritic cells of leukemic origin. The history and further application of this GvL effect and the main mechanisms will be discussed and reviewed in this chapter. PMID:28638379

Xenogeneic graft-versus-host-disease in NOD-scid IL-2Rγnull mice display a T-effector memory phenotype.

PubMed

Ali, Niwa; Flutter, Barry; Sanchez Rodriguez, Robert; Sharif-Paghaleh, Ehsan; Barber, Linda D; Lombardi, Giovanna; Nestle, Frank O

2012-01-01

The occurrence of Graft-versus-Host Disease (GvHD) is a prevalent and potentially lethal complication that develops following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Humanized mouse models of xenogeneic-GvHD based upon immunodeficient strains injected with human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC; "Hu-PBMC mice") are important tools to study human immune function in vivo. The recent introduction of targeted deletions at the interleukin-2 common gamma chain (IL-2Rγ(null)), notably the NOD-scid IL-2Rγ(null) (NSG) and BALB/c-Rag2(null) IL-2Rγ(null) (BRG) mice, has led to improved human cell engraftment. Despite their widespread use, a comprehensive characterisation of engraftment and GvHD development in the Hu-PBMC NSG and BRG models has never been performed in parallel. We compared engrafted human lymphocyte populations in the peripheral blood, spleens, lymph nodes and bone marrow of these mice. Kinetics of engraftment differed between the two strains, in particular a significantly faster expansion of the human CD45(+) compartment and higher engraftment levels of CD3(+) T-cells were observed in NSG mice, which may explain the faster rate of GvHD development in this model. The pathogenesis of human GvHD involves anti-host effector cell reactivity and cutaneous tissue infiltration. Despite this, the presence of T-cell subsets and tissue homing markers has only recently been characterised in the peripheral blood of patients and has never been properly defined in Hu-PBMC models of GvHD. Engrafted human cells in NSG mice shows a prevalence of tissue homing cells with a T-effector memory (T(EM)) phenotype and high levels of cutaneous lymphocyte antigen (CLA) expression. Characterization of Hu-PBMC mice provides a strong preclinical platform for the application of novel immunotherapies targeting T(EM)-cell driven GvHD.

Xenogeneic Graft-versus-Host-Disease in NOD-scid IL-2Rγnull Mice Display a T-Effector Memory Phenotype

PubMed Central

Ali, Niwa; Flutter, Barry; Sanchez Rodriguez, Robert; Sharif-Paghaleh, Ehsan; Barber, Linda D.; Lombardi, Giovanna; Nestle, Frank O.

2012-01-01

The occurrence of Graft-versus-Host Disease (GvHD) is a prevalent and potentially lethal complication that develops following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Humanized mouse models of xenogeneic-GvHD based upon immunodeficient strains injected with human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC; “Hu-PBMC mice”) are important tools to study human immune function in vivo. The recent introduction of targeted deletions at the interleukin-2 common gamma chain (IL-2Rγnull), notably the NOD-scid IL-2Rγnull (NSG) and BALB/c-Rag2 null IL-2Rγnull (BRG) mice, has led to improved human cell engraftment. Despite their widespread use, a comprehensive characterisation of engraftment and GvHD development in the Hu-PBMC NSG and BRG models has never been performed in parallel. We compared engrafted human lymphocyte populations in the peripheral blood, spleens, lymph nodes and bone marrow of these mice. Kinetics of engraftment differed between the two strains, in particular a significantly faster expansion of the human CD45+ compartment and higher engraftment levels of CD3+ T-cells were observed in NSG mice, which may explain the faster rate of GvHD development in this model. The pathogenesis of human GvHD involves anti-host effector cell reactivity and cutaneous tissue infiltration. Despite this, the presence of T-cell subsets and tissue homing markers has only recently been characterised in the peripheral blood of patients and has never been properly defined in Hu-PBMC models of GvHD. Engrafted human cells in NSG mice shows a prevalence of tissue homing cells with a T-effector memory (TEM) phenotype and high levels of cutaneous lymphocyte antigen (CLA) expression. Characterization of Hu-PBMC mice provides a strong preclinical platform for the application of novel immunotherapies targeting TEM-cell driven GvHD. PMID:22937164

Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt Creation and Variceal Coil or Plug Embolization Ineffectively Attain Gastric Variceal Decompression or Occlusion: Results of a 26-Patient Retrospective Study.

PubMed

Lakhoo, Janesh; Bui, James T; Lokken, R Peter; Ray, Charles E; Gaba, Ron C

2016-07-01

To assess the efficacy of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) creation with or without variceal coil and/or plug embolization in decompressing or occluding gastric varices (GVs). In this retrospective study, 78 patients with GV bleeding who underwent TIPS creation with or without embolotherapy with metallic coils and/or plugs from 1999 to 2014 were identified. Individuals who had a bare-metal TIPS and/or lacked post-TIPS imaging or endoscopic follow-up were excluded. The final cohort included 26 patients (16 men; median age, 54 y; median Model for End-stage Liver Disease score, 16). Variceal types, supplying vessels, and postprocedure GV patency on cross-sectional imaging or endoscopy were assessed. The primary study outcome measure was GV patency rate as a surrogate for efficacy of TIPS creation with or without embolization. GVs included gastroesophageal varix types 1 (n = 10) and 2 (n = 2), isolated GV types 1 (n = 4) and 2 (n = 2), and unspecified (n = 8). TIPS creation resulted in a median final portosystemic pressure gradient of 7 mm Hg. Multiple GV-supplying vessels (left/posterior/short gastric veins) were present in 65% of patients (n = 17). Embolization was performed in 69% (n = 18). Thirteen, four, and nine patients had imaging, endoscopic, or both imaging/endoscopic follow-up. GV patency rate was 65% (n = 17; 61%/75% with/without embolization) at a median of 128.5 days (range, 1-1,295 d) after TIPS creation. Incidence of recurrent bleeding was 27% (n = 7), and the 90-day mortality rate was 15% (n = 4). In this study, most GVs showed persistent patency despite TIPS decompression and variceal embolization, and the incidence of recurrent bleeding was high. The findings suggest suboptimal efficacy for GVs, and indicate a need for study of alternative or adjunctive approaches to GV treatment, such as chemical obliteration. Copyright © 2016 SIR. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The GALAXIE all-optical FEL project

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

Rosenzweig, J. B.; Arab, E.; Andonian, G.

2012-12-21

We describe a comprehensive project, funded under the DARPA AXiS program, to develop an all-optical table-top X-ray FEL based on dielectric acceleration and electromagnetic undulators, yielding a compact source of coherent X-rays for medical and related applications. The compactness of this source demands that high field (>GV/m) acceleration and undulation-inducing fields be employed, thus giving rise to the project's acronym: GV/m AcceLerator And X-ray Integrated Experiment (GALAXIE). There are numerous physics and technical hurdles to surmount in this ambitious scenario, and the integrated solutions include: a biharmonic photonic TW structure, 200 micron wavelength electromagnetic undulators, 5 {mu}m laser development, ultra-highmore » brightness magnetized/asymmetric emittance electron beam generation, and SASE FEL operation. We describe the overall design philosophy of the project, the innovative approaches to addressing the challenges presented by the design, and the significant progress towards realization of these approaches in the nine months since project initialization.« less

The covariance between genetic and environmental influences across ecological gradients: reassessing the evolutionary significance of countergradient and cogradient variation.

PubMed

Conover, David O; Duffy, Tara A; Hice, Lyndie A

2009-06-01

Patterns of phenotypic change across environmental gradients (e.g., latitude, altitude) have long captivated the interest of evolutionary ecologists. The pattern and magnitude of phenotypic change is determined by the covariance between genetic and environmental influences across a gradient. Cogradient variation (CoGV) occurs when covariance is positive: that is, genetic and environmental influences on phenotypic expression are aligned and their joint influence accentuates the change in mean trait value across the gradient. Conversely, countergradient variation (CnGV) occurs when covariance is negative: that is, genetic and environmental influences on phenotypes oppose one another, thereby diminishing the change in mean trait expression across the gradient. CnGV has so far been found in at least 60 species, with most examples coming from fishes, amphibians, and insects across latitudinal or altitudinal gradients. Traits that display CnGV most often involve metabolic compensation, that is, the elevation of various physiological rates processes (development, growth, feeding, metabolism, activity) to counteract the dampening effect of reduced temperature, growing season length, or food supply. Far fewer examples of CoGV have been identified (11 species), and these most often involve morphological characters. Increased knowledge of spatial covariance patterns has furthered our understanding of Bergmann size clines, phenotypic plasticity, species range limits, tradeoffs in juvenile growth rate, and the design of conservation strategies for wild species. Moreover, temporal CnGV explains some cases of an apparent lack of phenotypic response to directional selection and provides a framework for predicting evolutionary responses to climate change.

The fifth class of Gα proteins

PubMed Central

Oka, Yuichiro; Saraiva, Luis R.; Kwan, Yen Yen; Korsching, Sigrun I.

2009-01-01

All α-subunits of vertebrate heterotrimeric G proteins have been classified into 4 major classes, Gs, Gi, Gq, and G12, which possess orthologs already in sponges, one of the earliest animal phyla to evolve. Here we report the discovery of the fifth class of Gα protein, Gv, ancient like the other 4 classes, with members already in sponges, and encoded by 1–2 gnav genes per species. Gv is conserved across the animal kingdom including vertebrates, arthropods, mollusks, and annelids, but has been lost in many lineages such as nematodes, fruit fly, jawless fish, and tetrapods, concordant with a birth-and-death mode of evolution. All Gv proteins contain 5 G-box motifs characteristic of GTP-binding proteins and the expected acylation consensus sites in the N-terminal region. Sixty amino acid residues are conserved only among Gv, suggesting that they may constitute interaction sites for Gv-specific partner molecules. Overall Gv homology is high, on average 70% amino acid identity among vertebrate family members. The dN/dS analysis of teleost gnav genes reveals evolution under stringent negative selection. Genomic structure of vertebrate gnav genes is well conserved and different from those of the other 4 classes. The predicted full ORF of zebrafish gnav1 was confirmed by isolation from cDNA. RT-PCR analysis showed broad expression of gnav1 in adult zebrafish and in situ hybridization demonstrated a more restricted expression in larval tissues including the developing inner ear. The discovery of this fifth class of Gα proteins changes our understanding of G protein evolution. PMID:19164534

Meteorological Observations and System Performance From the NASA D3R's First 5 Years

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chandrasekar, V.; Beauchamp, Robert M.; Vega, Manuel; Chen, Haonan; Kumar, Mohit; Joshil, Shashank; Schwaller, Mathew; Petersen, Walter; Wolff, David

2017-01-01

The NASA dual-frequency, dual-polarization, Doppler radar (D3R) was conceived and developed to support ground validation (GV) operations of the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) mission. The D3R operates in the same frequencies bands, Ku- and Ka-band, as GPMs dual-frequency precipitation radar enabling direct comparisons of microphysical observations of precipitation. To support the GPM GVmission, D3R substantively participated in four field campaigns in North America with diverse geographic features covering both winter and summer conditions.

Ganjam virus/Nairobi sheep disease virus induces a pro-inflammatory response in infected sheep

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Partly due to climate change, and partly due to changes of human habitat occupation, the impact of tick-borne viruses is increasing. Nairobi sheep disease virus (NSDV) and Ganjam virus (GV) are two names for the same virus, which causes disease in sheep and goats and is currently known to be circulating in India and East Africa. The virus is transmitted by ixodid ticks and causes a severe hemorrhagic disease. We have developed a real-time PCR assay for the virus genome and validated it in a pilot study of the pathogenicity induced by two different isolates of NSDV/GV. One isolate was highly adapted to tissue culture, grew in most cell lines tested, and was essentially apathogenic in sheep. The second isolate appeared to be poorly adapted to cell culture and retained pathogenicity in sheep. The real-time PCR assay for virus easily detected 4 copies or less of the viral genome, and allowed a quantitative measure of the virus in whole blood. Measurement of the changes in cytokine mRNAs showed similar changes to those observed in humans infected by the closely related virus Crimean Congo hemorrhagic fever virus. PMID:23083136

Ganjam virus/Nairobi sheep disease virus induces a pro-inflammatory response in infected sheep.

PubMed

Bin Tarif, Abid; Lasecka, Lidia; Holzer, Barbara; Baron, Michael D

2012-10-19

Partly due to climate change, and partly due to changes of human habitat occupation, the impact of tick-borne viruses is increasing. Nairobi sheep disease virus (NSDV) and Ganjam virus (GV) are two names for the same virus, which causes disease in sheep and goats and is currently known to be circulating in India and East Africa. The virus is transmitted by ixodid ticks and causes a severe hemorrhagic disease. We have developed a real-time PCR assay for the virus genome and validated it in a pilot study of the pathogenicity induced by two different isolates of NSDV/GV. One isolate was highly adapted to tissue culture, grew in most cell lines tested, and was essentially apathogenic in sheep. The second isolate appeared to be poorly adapted to cell culture and retained pathogenicity in sheep. The real-time PCR assay for virus easily detected 4 copies or less of the viral genome, and allowed a quantitative measure of the virus in whole blood. Measurement of the changes in cytokine mRNAs showed similar changes to those observed in humans infected by the closely related virus Crimean Congo hemorrhagic fever virus.

The Ground-Level Enhancements of 29 September and 22 October 1989

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-01-01

3409 September 29 OLE Static Zenith Auimuth Thmrahl lwuaae % m~GV -’O0-13:0 . T 130-,,14:00 UT : Mawson 42? N -3 2.5 1.7 42? S -3 2.5 1.7 620 N -5 1.3...seen by all stations except above 2 GV. J is in units of (cm- s ster GV)-. Source direc- Mawson and the second not seen by the low latitude stations...t989 October 22 GLE sun and further studies are continuing. The main GLE was complex with several peaks. We have Time T J J 1, per Source Source

Observation of the Identical Rigidity Dependence of He, C, and O Cosmic Rays at High Rigidities by the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer on the International Space Station

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aguilar, M.; Ali Cavasonza, L.; Alpat, B.; Ambrosi, G.; Arruda, L.; Attig, N.; Aupetit, S.; Azzarello, P.; Bachlechner, A.; Barao, F.; Barrau, A.; Barrin, L.; Bartoloni, A.; Basara, L.; Başeǧmez-du Pree, S.; Battarbee, M.; Battiston, R.; Becker, U.; Behlmann, M.; Beischer, B.; Berdugo, J.; Bertucci, B.; Bindel, K. F.; Bindi, V.; de Boer, W.; Bollweg, K.; Bonnivard, V.; Borgia, B.; Boschini, M. J.; Bourquin, M.; Bueno, E. F.; Burger, J.; Burger, W. J.; Cadoux, F.; Cai, X. D.; Capell, M.; Caroff, S.; Casaus, J.; Castellini, G.; Cervelli, F.; Chae, M. J.; Chang, Y. H.; Chen, A. I.; Chen, G. M.; Chen, H. S.; Cheng, L.; Chou, H. Y.; Choumilov, E.; Choutko, V.; Chung, C. H.; Clark, C.; Clavero, R.; Coignet, G.; Consolandi, C.; Contin, A.; Corti, C.; Creus, W.; Crispoltoni, M.; Cui, Z.; Dadzie, K.; Dai, Y. M.; Datta, A.; Delgado, C.; Della Torre, S.; Demakov, O.; Demirköz, M. B.; Derome, L.; Di Falco, S.; Dimiccoli, F.; Díaz, C.; von Doetinchem, P.; Dong, F.; Donnini, F.; Duranti, M.; D'Urso, D.; Egorov, A.; Eline, A.; Eronen, T.; Feng, J.; Fiandrini, E.; Fisher, P.; Formato, V.; Galaktionov, Y.; Gallucci, G.; García-López, R. J.; Gargiulo, C.; Gast, H.; Gebauer, I.; Gervasi, M.; Ghelfi, A.; Giovacchini, F.; Gómez-Coral, D. M.; Gong, J.; Goy, C.; Grabski, V.; Grandi, D.; Graziani, M.; Guo, K. H.; Haino, S.; Han, K. C.; He, Z. H.; Heil, M.; Hoffman, J.; Hsieh, T. H.; Huang, H.; Huang, Z. C.; Huh, C.; Incagli, M.; Ionica, M.; Jang, W. Y.; Jia, Yi; Jinchi, H.; Kang, S. C.; Kanishev, K.; Khiali, B.; Kim, G. N.; Kim, K. S.; Kirn, Th.; Konak, C.; Kounina, O.; Kounine, A.; Koutsenko, V.; Kulemzin, A.; La Vacca, G.; Laudi, E.; Laurenti, G.; Lazzizzera, I.; Lebedev, A.; Lee, H. T.; Lee, S. C.; Leluc, C.; Li, H. S.; Li, J. Q.; Li, Q.; Li, T. X.; Li, Y.; Li, Z. H.; Li, Z. Y.; Lim, S.; Lin, C. H.; Lipari, P.; Lippert, T.; Liu, D.; Liu, Hu; Lordello, V. D.; Lu, S. Q.; Lu, Y. S.; Luebelsmeyer, K.; Luo, F.; Luo, J. Z.; Lyu, S. S.; Machate, F.; Mañá, C.; Marín, J.; Martin, T.; Martínez, G.; Masi, N.; Maurin, D.; Menchaca-Rocha, A.; Meng, Q.; Mikuni, V. M.; Mo, D. C.; Mott, P.; Nelson, T.; Ni, J. Q.; Nikonov, N.; Nozzoli, F.; Oliva, A.; Orcinha, M.; Palmonari, F.; Palomares, C.; Paniccia, M.; Pauluzzi, M.; Pensotti, S.; Perrina, C.; Phan, H. D.; Picot-Clemente, N.; Pilo, F.; Pizzolotto, C.; Plyaskin, V.; Pohl, M.; Poireau, V.; Quadrani, L.; Qi, X. M.; Qin, X.; Qu, Z. Y.; Räihä, T.; Rancoita, P. G.; Rapin, D.; Ricol, J. S.; Rosier-Lees, S.; Rozhkov, A.; Rozza, D.; Sagdeev, R.; Schael, S.; Schmidt, S. M.; Schulz von Dratzig, A.; Schwering, G.; Seo, E. S.; Shan, B. S.; Shi, J. Y.; Siedenburg, T.; Son, D.; Song, J. W.; Tacconi, M.; Tang, X. W.; Tang, Z. C.; Tescaro, D.; Ting, Samuel C. C.; Ting, S. M.; Tomassetti, N.; Torsti, J.; Türkoǧlu, C.; Urban, T.; Vagelli, V.; Valente, E.; Valtonen, E.; Vázquez Acosta, M.; Vecchi, M.; Velasco, M.; Vialle, J. P.; Vitale, V.; Vitillo, S.; Wang, L. Q.; Wang, N. H.; Wang, Q. L.; Wang, X.; Wang, X. Q.; Wang, Z. X.; Wei, C. C.; Weng, Z. L.; Whitman, K.; Wu, H.; Wu, X.; Xiong, R. Q.; Xu, W.; Yan, Q.; Yang, J.; Yang, M.; Yang, Y.; Yi, H.; Yu, Y. J.; Yu, Z. Q.; Zannoni, M.; Zeissler, S.; Zhang, C.; Zhang, F.; Zhang, J.; Zhang, J. H.; Zhang, S. W.; Zhang, Z.; Zheng, Z. M.; Zhuang, H. L.; Zhukov, V.; Zichichi, A.; Zimmermann, N.; Zuccon, P.; AMS Collaboration

2017-12-01

We report the observation of new properties of primary cosmic rays He, C, and O measured in the rigidity (momentum/charge) range 2 GV to 3 TV with 90 ×106 helium, 8.4 ×106 carbon, and 7.0 ×106 oxygen nuclei collected by the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer (AMS) during the first five years of operation. Above 60 GV, these three spectra have identical rigidity dependence. They all deviate from a single power law above 200 GV and harden in an identical way.

Genetic polymorphisms in the cytokine and chemokine system: their possible importance in allogeneic stem cell transplantation.

PubMed

Loeffler, Juergen; Ok, Michael; Morton, Oliver C; Mezger, Markus; Einsele, Hermann

2010-01-01

Chemokines represent central players of the innate and adaptive immunity and are involved in the regulation of inflammatory events occurring during infectious complications or during graft vs. host disease (GvHD). Patients after allogeneic stem cell transplantation (alloSCT) are at a high risk for the development of acute GvHD or to suffer from fungal infections. Susceptibility to fungal infections and the course of GvHD can be genetically influenced by single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), which regulate expression or biological activity of chemokines, and therefore have an impact on the outcome of invasive aspergillosis and GvHD. High lightened studies of abetting factors for GvHD revealed SNPs in TNFA, IL-6, IL-10, INF-γ, CCL2, CCL5 (RANTES), IL-1Ra, IL-23R, IL-7Ralpha, IL-10RB, and CCR9 genes as prevalent considerable. Furthermore, additional SNPs were described to be significantly associated with fungal infections (Aspergillus fumigatus, Candida albicans), including markers in CCL3, CCL4, CCL20, CXCL2, CXCL8, CXCL10, CCR1, and CCR2. This review summarizes the current knowledge about the growing number of genetic markers in chemokine genes and their relevance for patients after alloSCT.

Nasal neuron PET imaging quantifies neuron generation and degeneration

PubMed Central

Van de Bittner, Genevieve C.; Riley, Misha M.; Cao, Luxiang; Herrick, Scott P.; Ricq, Emily L.; O’Neill, Michael J.; Ahmed, Zeshan; Murray, Tracey K.; Smith, Jaclyn E.; Wang, Changning; Schroeder, Frederick A.; Albers, Mark W.; Hooker, Jacob M.

2017-01-01

Olfactory dysfunction is broadly associated with neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases and predicts increased mortality rates in healthy individuals. Conventional measurements of olfactory health assess odor processing pathways within the brain and provide a limited understanding of primary odor detection. Quantification of the olfactory sensory neurons (OSNs), which detect odors within the nasal cavity, would provide insight into the etiology of olfactory dysfunction associated with disease and mortality. Notably, OSNs are continually replenished by adult neurogenesis in mammals, including humans, so OSN measurements are primed to provide specialized insights into neurological disease. Here, we have evaluated a PET radiotracer, [11C]GV1-57, that specifically binds mature OSNs and quantifies the mature OSN population in vivo. [11C]GV1-57 monitored native OSN population dynamics in rodents, detecting OSN generation during postnatal development and aging-associated neurodegeneration. [11C]GV1-57 additionally measured rates of neuron regeneration after acute injury and early-stage OSN deficits in a rodent tauopathy model of neurodegenerative disease. Preliminary assessment in nonhuman primates suggested maintained uptake and saturable binding of [18F]GV1-57 in primate nasal epithelium, supporting its translational potential. Future applications for GV1-57 include monitoring additional diseases or conditions associated with olfactory dysregulation, including cognitive decline, as well as monitoring effects of neuroregenerative or neuroprotective therapeutics. PMID:28112682

[Clinical efficacy observation of acupuncture at suliao (GV 25) on improving regain of consciousness from coma in severe craniocerebral injury].

PubMed

Xu, Kai-Sheng; Song, Jian-Hua; Huang, Tiao-Hua; Huang, Zhi-Hua; Yu, Lu-Chang; Zheng, Wei-Ping; Chen, Xiao-Shan; Liu, Chuan

2014-06-01

To compare the clinical therapeutic effects differences between acupuncture at Suliao (GV 25) and Shuigou (GV 26) on promoting regain of consciousness from coma in severe craniocerebral injury. Based on regular emergency treatments of neurosurgery, eighty-two cases of craniocerebral injury who were under stable condition were randomly divided into an observation group (42 cases) and a control group (40 cases). Suliao (GV 25) was selected as main aupoint, while Laogong (PC 8) and Yongquan (KI 1), etc. were selected as adjuvant acupoints and Neiguan (PC 6), Sanyinjiao (SP 6), Yifeng (TE 17) and Wangu (GB 12), etc. were selected as matching acupoints in the observation group where a strong needle manipulation was applied to improve the regain of consciousness. The main acupoint of Shuigou (GV 26) along with identical adjuvant acupoints and matching acupoints in the observation group were selected in the control group with identical strong needle manipulation. The treatment was given once a day in both groups, five times per week and ten times were considered as one session. The immediate clinical symptoms after acupuncture at Suliao (GV 25) and Shuigou (GV 26) were observed as well as Glasgow coma scale (GCS) before the treatment, after 45 days and 90 days of treatment to assess the resuscitation time and rate. Also the clinical efficacy was compared between both groups. The occurrence rate of sneezing reflex was 85.7% (36/42) in the observation group, which was higher than 25.0% (10/40) in the control group (P < 0.01). The average resuscitation time was (64.6 +/- 19.4) days in the observation group, which was obviously shorter than (73.8 +/- 14. 6) days in the control group (P < 0.05). The resuscitation rate was 88.1% (37/42) in the observation group, which was similar to 75.0% (30/40) in the control group (P > 0.05). Compared before the treatment, GCS were both improved after the treatment in two groups (both P < 0.01). The 90-day GCS was 9.52 +/- 2.32 in the observation group, which was superior to 8.47 +/-2.14 in the control group (P < 0.05). The curative and markedly effective rate was 45.2% (19/42) in the observation group, which was superior to 22.5% (9/40) in the control group (P < 0.05). The effect of acupuncture at Suliao (GV 25) on improving regain of consciousness from coma in severe craniocerebral injury is positive. It could specifically improve sneezing reflex and stimulate respiratory center, which has more obvious effect than acupuncture at Shuigou (GV 26).

Swainsonine, a novel fungal metabolite: optimization of fermentative production and bioreactor operations using evolutionary programming.

PubMed

Singh, Digar; Kaur, Gurvinder

2014-08-01

The optimization of bioreactor operations towards swainsonine production was performed using an artificial neural network coupled evolutionary program (EP)-based optimization algorithm fitted with experimental one-factor-at-a-time (OFAT) results. The effects of varying agitation (300-500 rpm) and aeration (0.5-2.0 vvm) rates for different incubation hours (72-108 h) were evaluated in bench top bioreactor. Prominent scale-up parameters, gassed power per unit volume (P g/V L, W/m(3)) and volumetric oxygen mass transfer coefficient (K L a, s(-1)) were correlated with optimized conditions. A maximum of 6.59 ± 0.10 μg/mL of swainsonine production was observed at 400 rpm-1.5 vvm at 84 h in OFAT experiments with corresponding P g/VL and K L a values of 91.66 W/m(3) and 341.48 × 10(-4) s(-1), respectively. The EP optimization algorithm predicted a maximum of 10.08 μg/mL of swainsonine at 325.47 rpm, 1.99 vvm and 80.75 h against the experimental production of 7.93 ± 0.52 μg/mL at constant K L a (349.25 × 10(-4) s(-1)) and significantly reduced P g/V L (33.33 W/m(3)) drawn by the impellers.

Super-resolution depth information from a short-wave infrared laser gated-viewing system by using correlated double sampling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Göhler, Benjamin; Lutzmann, Peter

2017-10-01

Primarily, a laser gated-viewing (GV) system provides range-gated 2D images without any range resolution within the range gate. By combining two GV images with slightly different gate positions, 3D information within a part of the range gate can be obtained. The depth resolution is higher (super-resolution) than the minimal gate shift step size in a tomographic sequence of the scene. For a state-of-the-art system with a typical frame rate of 20 Hz, the time difference between the two required GV images is 50 ms which may be too long in a dynamic scenario with moving objects. Therefore, we have applied this approach to the reset and signal level images of a new short-wave infrared (SWIR) GV camera whose read-out integrated circuit supports correlated double sampling (CDS) actually intended for the reduction of kTC noise (reset noise). These images are extracted from only one single laser pulse with a marginal time difference in between. The SWIR GV camera consists of 640 x 512 avalanche photodiodes based on mercury cadmium telluride with a pixel pitch of 15 μm. A Q-switched, flash lamp pumped solid-state laser with 1.57 μm wavelength (OPO), 52 mJ pulse energy after beam shaping, 7 ns pulse length and 20 Hz pulse repetition frequency is used for flash illumination. In this paper, the experimental set-up is described and the operating principle of CDS is explained. The method of deriving super-resolution depth information from a GV system by using CDS is introduced and optimized. Further, the range accuracy is estimated from measured image data.

Dynamical generation of a repulsive vector contribution to the quark pressure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Restrepo, Tulio E.; Macias, Juan Camilo; Pinto, Marcus Benghi; Ferrari, Gabriel N.

2015-03-01

Lattice QCD results for the coefficient c2 appearing in the Taylor expansion of the pressure show that this quantity increases with the temperature towards the Stefan-Boltzmann limit. On the other hand, model approximations predict that when a vector repulsion, parametrized by GV, is present this coefficient reaches a maximum just after Tc and then deviates from the lattice predictions. Recently, this discrepancy has been used as a guide to constrain the (presently unknown) value of GV within the framework of effective models at large Nc (LN). In the present investigation we show that, due to finite Nc effects, c2 may also develop a maximum even when GV=0 since a vector repulsive term can be dynamically generated by exchange-type radiative corrections. Here we apply the optimized perturbation theory (OPT) method to the two-flavor Polyakov-Nambu-Jona-Lasinio model (at GV=0 ) and compare the results with those furnished by lattice simulations and by the LN approximation at GV=0 and also at GV≠0 . The OPT numerical results for c2 are impressively accurate for T ≲1.2 Tc but, as expected, they predict that this quantity develops a maximum at high T . After identifying the mathematical origin of this extremum we argue that such a discrepant behavior may naturally arise within this type of effective quark theories (at GV=0 ) whenever the first 1 /Nc corrections are taken into account. We then interpret this hypothesis as an indication that beyond the large-Nc limit the correct high-temperature (perturbative) behavior of c2 will be faithfully described by effective models only if they also mimic the asymptotic freedom phenomenon.

Stretching Reduces Skin Thickness and Improves Subcutaneous Tissue Mobility in a Murine Model of Systemic Sclerosis.

PubMed

Xiong, Ying; Berrueta, Lisbeth; Urso, Katia; Olenich, Sara; Muskaj, Igla; Badger, Gary J; Aliprantis, Antonios; Lafyatis, Robert; Langevin, Helene M

2017-01-01

Although physical therapy can help preserve mobility in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc), stretching has not been used systematically as a treatment to prevent or reverse the disease process. We previously showed in rodent models that stretching promotes the resolution of connective tissue inflammation and reduces new collagen formation after injury. Here, we tested the hypothesis that stretching would impact scleroderma development using a mouse sclerodermatous graft-versus-host disease (sclGvHD) model. The model consists in the adoptive transfer (allogeneic) of splenocytes from B10.D2 mice (graft) into Rag2 -/- BALB/c hosts (sclGvHD), resulting in skin inflammation followed by fibrosis over 4 weeks. SclGvHD mice and controls were randomized to stretching in vivo for 10 min daily versus no stretching. Weekly ultrasound measurements of skin thickness and subcutaneous tissue mobility in the back (relative tissue displacement during passive trunk motion) successfully captured the different phases of the sclGvHD model. Stretching reduced skin thickness and increased subcutaneous tissue mobility compared to no stretching at week 3. Stretching also reduced the expression of CCL2 and ADAM8 in the skin at week 4, which are two genes known to be upregulated in both murine sclGvHD and the inflammatory subset of human SSc. However, there was no evidence that stretching attenuated inflammation at week 2. Daily stretching for 10 min can improve skin thickness and mobility in the absence of any other treatment in the sclGvHD murine model. These pre-clinical results suggest that a systematic investigation of stretching as a therapeutic modality is warranted in patients with SSc.

Gastric Varices Bleed at Lower Portosystemic Pressure Gradients than Esophageal Varices.

PubMed

Morrison, Joseph D; Mendoza-Elias, Nasya; Lipnik, Andrew J; Lokken, R Peter; Bui, James T; Ray, Charles E; Gaba, Ron C

2018-05-01

To quantify and compare portosystemic pressure gradients (PSGs) between bleeding esophageal varices (EV) and gastric varices (GV). In a single-center, retrospective study, 149 patients with variceal bleeding (90 men, 59 women, mean age 52 y) with EV (n = 69; 46%) or GV (n = 80; 54%) were selected from 320 consecutive patients who underwent successful transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) creation from 1998 to 2016. GV were subcategorized using the Sarin classification as gastroesophageal varices (GEV) (n = 57) or isolated gastric varices (IGV) (n = 23). PSG before TIPS was measured from the main portal vein to the right atrium. PSGs were compared across EV, GEV, and IGV groups using 1-way analysis of variance. Overall mean baseline PSG was 21 mm Hg ± 6. PSG was significantly higher in patients with EV versus GV (23 mm Hg vs 19 mm Hg; P < .001). Mean PSG was highest among EV (23 mm Hg) with lower PSGs identified for GEV (20 mm Hg) and IGV (16 mm Hg); this difference was statistically significant (P < .001). Among 95 acute bleeding cases, a similar pattern was evident (EV 23 mm Hg vs GEV mm Hg 20 vs IGV 17 mm Hg; P < .001). At baseline PSG < 12 mm Hg, 13% (3/23) of IGV bled versus 9% (5/57) of GEV and 3% (2/69) of EVs (P = .169). Mean final PSG after TIPS was 8 mm Hg (IGV 6 mm Hg vs EV and GEV 8 mm Hg; P = .005). GV bleed at lower PSGs than EV. EV, GEV, and IGV bleeding is associated with successively lower PSGs. These findings highlight distinct physiology, anatomy, and behavior of GV compared with EV. Copyright © 2017 SIR. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Endoscopic Cyanoacrylate Injection with Post-injection Audible Doppler Assessment of Gastric Varices: A Single-Institution Experience.

PubMed

Catron, Tom D; Smallfield, George B; Kang, Le; Sterling, Richard K; Siddiqui, Mohammad S

2017-11-01

Gastric varices (GV) have higher rates of morbidity and mortality from hemorrhage than esophageal varices. Several studies have shown the safety and efficacy of cyanoacrylate (CA) injection for acute gastric variceal hemorrhage. We report data from our experience with CA injection for GV before and after routine use of post-injection audible Doppler assessment (ADA) for GV obturation and describe long-term outcomes after this therapy. We retrospectively identified patients who had documented GV, underwent CA injection, and had at least 2 weeks of follow-up. We recorded and analyzed the survival and rebleeding rates with patient demographics, clinical data, and endoscopy findings between two groups of patients who were categorized by CA injection prior to and after inception of the ADA technique. Seventy-one patients were identified with 16 patients analyzed in a group where ADA was not used (Pre-ADA) and 55 analyzed where ADA was used (Post-ADA). No rebleeding events were observed within 1 week of initial CA injection. No embolic events were reported after any initial CA injection within 4 weeks. The rate of bleed-free survival at 1 year was 69.6% in the Pre-ADA group and 85.8% in the Post-ADA without statistical significance. The all-cause 1-year mortality was 13.8% in the Pre-ADA group and 10.7% in the Post-ADA group without statistical significance. ADA of CA-injected GV does not appear to significantly affect adverse events or clinical outcomes; however, our findings are limited by small sample size and cohort proportions allowing for significant type II statistical error. Further prospective investigation is required to determine the impact of ADA on clinical outcomes after GV obturation.

A New Harmonized Approach to Estimate Busulfan Exposure Predicts Survival and Toxicity after Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation in Children and Young Adults: a Multicenter Retrospective Cohort Analysis

PubMed Central

Bartelink, I.H.; Lalmohamed, Arief; van Reij, Elisabeth M.L.; Dvorak, Chris C.; Savic, Rada M.; Zwaveling, Juliette; Bredius, Robbert. G.M.; Egberts, Antoine C.G.; Bierings, M.; Kletzel, M.; Shaw, Peter J.; Nath, Christa E.; Hempel, George; Ansari, M.; Krajinovic, M.; Theoret, Yves; Duval, Michel; Keizer, Ron J.; Bittencourt, Henriette; Hassan, Moustapha; Güngör, Tayfun; Wynn, Robert F.; Veys, Paul; Cuvelier, Geoff D.E.; Marktel, Sarah; Chiesa, Robert; Cowan, Morton J.; Slatter, Mary A.; Stricherz, Melisa K.; Jennissen, Cathryn; Long-Boyle, Janel R.; Boelens, Jaap Jan

2016-01-01

Background Intravenous-busulfan (IV-busulfan) combined with therapeutic drug monitoring to guide dosing improves outcomes after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT). The best method to estimate busulfan exposure and the optimal exposure in children/young adults remains unclear. We therefore evaluated three approaches to estimate IV-Bu exposure (expressed as cumulative-area-under-the-curve; AUC) and associated busulfan-AUC with clinical outcomes in children/young adults undergoing allo-HCT. Methods In this retrospective analysis, patients (0.1–30.4 years) receiving busulfan-based conditioning regimen from 15 centers were included. Cumulative AUC was calculated by numerical integration using non-linear mixed effect modeling (AUCNONMEM), non-compartmental analysis (AUC0-infinity and AUC to the end of the dose interval AUC0-tau) and by individual centers using a variety of approaches (AUCcenter). Main outcome of interest was event-free survival (EFS). Other outcomes of interest were overall survival, graft-failure, relapse, transplantation related mortality (TRM), acute toxicity (veno-occlusive disease (VOD) and/or acute graft versus-host disease (aGvHD), chronic GvHD (cGvHD) and cGVHD-free event-free survival (GEFS). Propensity score adjusted cox proportional hazard models, Weibull models, and Fine-Gray competing risk regressions were used. Results 674 patients were included (41% malignant, 59% non-malignant) Estimated 2-year EFS was 69.7%. The median busulfan AUCNONMEM was 74.4 mg*h/L (CI95% 31.1–104.6 mg*h/L). The median AUCNONMEM correlated poorly with AUCcenter (R2 = 0.254). Patients with optimal IV-busulfan AUC of 78–101 mg*h/L showed 81% EFS at 2 years compared to 66.1% and 49.5% in the low (<78 mg*h/L) and high (>101 mg*h/L) busulfan AUC group respectively (P=0.011). Graft-failure/relapse occurred more frequently in the low AUC group (HR=1.75 P<0.001). Acute toxicity, cGvHD and TRM was significantly higher in the high AUC group (HR 1.69, 2.99 and 1.30), independent of indication. Interpretation These results demonstrate that improved clinical outcomes may be achieved by targeting the busulfan-AUC to 78–101 mg*h/L using a new validated pharmacokinetic-model for all indications. PMID:27746112

Does defibrotide prophylaxis decrease the risk of acute graft versus host disease following allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation?

PubMed

Tekgündüz, Emre; Kaya, Ali Hakan; Bozdağ, Sinem Civriz; Koçubaba, Şerife; Kayıkçı, Ömür; Namdaroğlu, Sinem; Uğur, Bilge; Akpınar, Seval; Batgi, Hikmetullah; Bekdemir, Filiz; Altuntaş, Fevzi

2016-02-01

There is some preliminary evidence, that veno-occlusive disease prophylaxis with defibrotide (DF) may also have a role in decreasing risk of acute graft-versus-host disease (aGvHD) by preventing tissue damage. In this study, we aimed to investigate the role of DF prophylaxis on the development of aGvHD at D+180. One hundred ninety-five consecutive adult patients receiving allogeneic HCT were retrospectively evaluated in 3 groups: no DF, DF/post-HCT (DF D+1 to D+14) and DF/pre-HCT (DF for 14 days concurrently with conditioning). The total (p: 0.057) and grades III/IV (p: 0.051) aGvHD rates at D+180 were 46.5%, 40%, 25.5% and 15.5%, 11.2%, 0% in patients on no DF, DF/post-HCT and DF/pre-HCT. DF may have a role in decreasing incidence and severity of aGvHD, especially if used concurrently with conditioning regimen. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Next-Generation Satellite Precipitation Products for Understanding Global and Regional Water Variability

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hou, Arthur Y.

2011-01-01

A major challenge in understanding the space-time variability of continental water fluxes is the lack of accurate precipitation estimates over complex terrains. While satellite precipitation observations can be used to complement ground-based data to obtain improved estimates, space-based and ground-based estimates come with their own sets of uncertainties, which must be understood and characterized. Quantitative estimation of uncertainties in these products also provides a necessary foundation for merging satellite and ground-based precipitation measurements within a rigorous statistical framework. Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) is an international satellite mission that will provide next-generation global precipitation data products for research and applications. It consists of a constellation of microwave sensors provided by NASA, JAXA, CNES, ISRO, EUMETSAT, DOD, NOAA, NPP, and JPSS. At the heart of the mission is the GPM Core Observatory provided by NASA and JAXA to be launched in 2013. The GPM Core, which will carry the first space-borne dual-frequency radar and a state-of-the-art multi-frequency radiometer, is designed to set new reference standards for precipitation measurements from space, which can then be used to unify and refine precipitation retrievals from all constellation sensors. The next-generation constellation-based satellite precipitation estimates will be characterized by intercalibrated radiometric measurements and physical-based retrievals using a common observation-derived hydrometeor database. For pre-launch algorithm development and post-launch product evaluation, NASA supports an extensive ground validation (GV) program in cooperation with domestic and international partners to improve (1) physics of remote-sensing algorithms through a series of focused field campaigns, (2) characterization of uncertainties in satellite and ground-based precipitation products over selected GV testbeds, and (3) modeling of atmospheric processes and land surface hydrology through simulation, downscaling, and data assimilation. An overview of the GPM mission, science status, and synergies with HyMex activities will be presented

IL-2 promotes early Treg reconstitution after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation.

PubMed

Betts, Brian C; Pidala, Joseph; Kim, Jongphil; Mishra, Asmita; Nishihori, Taiga; Perez, Lia; Ochoa-Bayona, Jose Leonel; Khimani, Farhad; Walton, Kelly; Bookout, Ryan; Nieder, Michael; Khaira, Divis K; Davila, Marco; Alsina, Melissa; Field, Teresa; Ayala, Ernesto; Locke, Frederick L; Riches, Marcie; Kharfan-Dabaja, Mohamed; Fernandez, Hugo; Anasetti, Claudio

2017-05-01

Graft- versus -host disease (GvHD) remains a major cause of transplant-related mortality. Interleukin-2 (IL-2) plus sirolimus (SIR) synergistically reduces acute GvHD in rodents and promotes regulatory T cells. This phase II trial tested the hypothesis that IL-2 would facilitate STAT5 phosphorylation in donor T cells, expand regulatory T cells, and ameliorate GvHD. Between 16 th April 2014 and 19 th December 2015, 20 patients received IL-2 (200,000 IU/m 2 thrice weekly, days 0 to +90) with SIR (5-14 ng/mL) and tacrolimus (TAC) (3-7 ng/mL) after HLA-matched related or unrelated allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). The study was designed to capture an increase in regulatory T cells from 16.0% to more than 23.2% at day +30. IL-2/SIR/TAC significantly increased regulatory T cells at day +30 compared to our published data with SIR/TAC (23.8% vs. 16.0%, P =0.0016; 0.052 k/uL vs. 0.037 k/uL, P =0.0163), achieving the primary study end point. However, adding IL-2 to SIR/TAC led to a fall in regulatory T cells by day +90 and did not reduce acute or chronic GvHD. Patients who discontinued IL-2 before day +100 showed a suggested trend toward less grade II-IV acute GvHD (16.7% vs. 50%, P =0.1475). We surmise that the reported accumulation of IL-2 receptors in circulation over time may neutralize IL-2, lead to progressive loss of regulatory T cells, and offset its clinical efficacy. The amount of phospho-STAT3 + CD4 + T cells correlated with donor T-cell activation and acute GvHD incidence despite early T-cell STAT5 phosphorylation by IL-2. Optimizing IL-2 dosing and overcoming cytokine sequestration by soluble IL-2 receptor may sustain lasting regulatory T cells after transplantation. However, an approach to target STAT3 is needed to enhance GvHD prevention. ( clinicaltrials.gov identifier: 01927120 ). Copyright© Ferrata Storti Foundation.

Salvaged allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for pediatric chemotherapy refractory acute leukemia.

PubMed

Wang, Jingbo; Yuan, Lei; Cheng, Haoyu; Fei, Xinhong; Yin, Yumin; Gu, Jiangying; Xue, Song; He, Junbao; Yang, Fan; Wang, Xiaocan; Yang, Yixin; Zhang, Weijie

2018-01-09

There is an ongoing debate concerning the performance of salvaged allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) in pediatric patients with acute refractory leukemia, in whom the prognosis is quite dismal. Few studies have ever been conducted on this subject. This may be partly due to missed opportunities by majority of the patients in such situations. To investigate the feasibility, evaluate the efficiency, and identify the prognostic factors of allo-HSCT in this sub-setting, the authors performed a single institution-based retrospective analysis. A total of 44 patients, of whom 28 had acute myeloid leukemia (AML), 13 had acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), and 3 had mixed phenotype leukemia (MPL), were enrolled in this study. With a median follow-up of 19 months, the estimated 2-year overall survival (OS) and progression free survival (PFS) were 34.3% (95% CI, 17.9-51.4%) and 33.6% (95% CI, 18.0-50.1%), respectively. The estimated 2-year incidence rates of relapse and non-relapse mortality (NRM) were 43.8% (95% CI 26.4-60.0%) and 19.6% (95% CI 9.1-32.9%), respectively. The estimated 100-day cumulative incidence of acute graft versus host disease (aGvHD) was 43.6% (95% CI 28.7-57.5%), and the 1-year cumulative incidence of chronic GvHD (cGvHD) was 45.5% (95% CI 30.5-59.3%). Compared with the previous studies, the multivariate analysis in this study additionally identified that female donors and cGvHD were associated with lower relapse and better PFS and OS. Male recipients, age younger than 10 years, a diagnosis of ALL, and the intermediate-adverse cytogenetic risk group were associated with increased relapse. On the contrary, extramedullary disease (EMD) and aGvHD were only linked to worse PFS. These data suggested that although only one-third of the patients would obtain PFS over 2 years, salvaged allo-HSCT is still the most reliable and best therapeutic strategy for refractory pediatric acute leukemia. If probable, choosing a female donor, better management of aGvHD, and induction of cGvHD promotes patient survival.

Observation of the Identical Rigidity Dependence of He, C, and O Cosmic Rays at High Rigidities by the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer on the International Space Station.

PubMed

Aguilar, M; Ali Cavasonza, L; Alpat, B; Ambrosi, G; Arruda, L; Attig, N; Aupetit, S; Azzarello, P; Bachlechner, A; Barao, F; Barrau, A; Barrin, L; Bartoloni, A; Basara, L; Başeğmez-du Pree, S; Battarbee, M; Battiston, R; Becker, U; Behlmann, M; Beischer, B; Berdugo, J; Bertucci, B; Bindel, K F; Bindi, V; de Boer, W; Bollweg, K; Bonnivard, V; Borgia, B; Boschini, M J; Bourquin, M; Bueno, E F; Burger, J; Burger, W J; Cadoux, F; Cai, X D; Capell, M; Caroff, S; Casaus, J; Castellini, G; Cervelli, F; Chae, M J; Chang, Y H; Chen, A I; Chen, G M; Chen, H S; Cheng, L; Chou, H Y; Choumilov, E; Choutko, V; Chung, C H; Clark, C; Clavero, R; Coignet, G; Consolandi, C; Contin, A; Corti, C; Creus, W; Crispoltoni, M; Cui, Z; Dadzie, K; Dai, Y M; Datta, A; Delgado, C; Della Torre, S; Demakov, O; Demirköz, M B; Derome, L; Di Falco, S; Dimiccoli, F; Díaz, C; von Doetinchem, P; Dong, F; Donnini, F; Duranti, M; D'Urso, D; Egorov, A; Eline, A; Eronen, T; Feng, J; Fiandrini, E; Fisher, P; Formato, V; Galaktionov, Y; Gallucci, G; García-López, R J; Gargiulo, C; Gast, H; Gebauer, I; Gervasi, M; Ghelfi, A; Giovacchini, F; Gómez-Coral, D M; Gong, J; Goy, C; Grabski, V; Grandi, D; Graziani, M; Guo, K H; Haino, S; Han, K C; He, Z H; Heil, M; Hoffman, J; Hsieh, T H; Huang, H; Huang, Z C; Huh, C; Incagli, M; Ionica, M; Jang, W Y; Jia, Yi; Jinchi, H; Kang, S C; Kanishev, K; Khiali, B; Kim, G N; Kim, K S; Kirn, Th; Konak, C; Kounina, O; Kounine, A; Koutsenko, V; Kulemzin, A; La Vacca, G; Laudi, E; Laurenti, G; Lazzizzera, I; Lebedev, A; Lee, H T; Lee, S C; Leluc, C; Li, H S; Li, J Q; Li, Q; Li, T X; Li, Y; Li, Z H; Li, Z Y; Lim, S; Lin, C H; Lipari, P; Lippert, T; Liu, D; Liu, Hu; Lordello, V D; Lu, S Q; Lu, Y S; Luebelsmeyer, K; Luo, F; Luo, J Z; Lyu, S S; Machate, F; Mañá, C; Marín, J; Martin, T; Martínez, G; Masi, N; Maurin, D; Menchaca-Rocha, A; Meng, Q; Mikuni, V M; Mo, D C; Mott, P; Nelson, T; Ni, J Q; Nikonov, N; Nozzoli, F; Oliva, A; Orcinha, M; Palmonari, F; Palomares, C; Paniccia, M; Pauluzzi, M; Pensotti, S; Perrina, C; Phan, H D; Picot-Clemente, N; Pilo, F; Pizzolotto, C; Plyaskin, V; Pohl, M; Poireau, V; Quadrani, L; Qi, X M; Qin, X; Qu, Z Y; Räihä, T; Rancoita, P G; Rapin, D; Ricol, J S; Rosier-Lees, S; Rozhkov, A; Rozza, D; Sagdeev, R; Schael, S; Schmidt, S M; Schulz von Dratzig, A; Schwering, G; Seo, E S; Shan, B S; Shi, J Y; Siedenburg, T; Son, D; Song, J W; Tacconi, M; Tang, X W; Tang, Z C; Tescaro, D; Ting, Samuel C C; Ting, S M; Tomassetti, N; Torsti, J; Türkoğlu, C; Urban, T; Vagelli, V; Valente, E; Valtonen, E; Vázquez Acosta, M; Vecchi, M; Velasco, M; Vialle, J P; Vitale, V; Vitillo, S; Wang, L Q; Wang, N H; Wang, Q L; Wang, X; Wang, X Q; Wang, Z X; Wei, C C; Weng, Z L; Whitman, K; Wu, H; Wu, X; Xiong, R Q; Xu, W; Yan, Q; Yang, J; Yang, M; Yang, Y; Yi, H; Yu, Y J; Yu, Z Q; Zannoni, M; Zeissler, S; Zhang, C; Zhang, F; Zhang, J; Zhang, J H; Zhang, S W; Zhang, Z; Zheng, Z M; Zhuang, H L; Zhukov, V; Zichichi, A; Zimmermann, N; Zuccon, P

2017-12-22

We report the observation of new properties of primary cosmic rays He, C, and O measured in the rigidity (momentum/charge) range 2 GV to 3 TV with 90×10^{6} helium, 8.4×10^{6} carbon, and 7.0×10^{6} oxygen nuclei collected by the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer (AMS) during the first five years of operation. Above 60 GV, these three spectra have identical rigidity dependence. They all deviate from a single power law above 200 GV and harden in an identical way.

Analysis on regulation strategies for extending service life of hydropower turbines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, W.; Norrlund, P.; Yang, J.

2016-11-01

Since a few years, there has been a tendency that hydropower turbines experience fatigue to a greater extent, due to increasingly more regulation movements of governor actuators. The aim of this paper is to extend the service life of hydropower turbines, by reasonably decreasing the guide vane (GV) movements with appropriate regulation strategies, e.g. settings of PI (proportional-integral) governor parameters and controller filters. The accumulated distance and number of GV movements are the two main indicators of this study. The core method is to simulate the long-term GV opening of Francis turbines with MATLAB/Simulink, based on a sequence of one-month measurements of the Nordic grid frequency. Basic theoretical formulas are also discussed and compared to the simulation results, showing reasonable correspondence. Firstly, a model of a turbine governor is discussed and verified, based on on-site measurements of a Swedish hydropower plant. Then, the influence of governor parameters is discussed. Effects of different settings of controller filters (e.g. dead zone, floating dead zone and linear filter) are also examined. Moreover, a change in GV movement might affect the quality of the frequency control. This is also monitored via frequency deviation characteristics, determined by elementary simulations of the Nordic power system. The results show how the regulation settings affect the GV movements and frequency quality, supplying suggestions for optimizing the hydropower turbine operation for decreasing the wear and tear.

Advanced sclerosis of the chest wall skin secondary to chronic graft-versus-host disease: a case with severe restrictive lung defect.

PubMed

Ödek, Çağlar; Kendirli, Tanil; İleri, Talia; Yaman, Ayhan; Fatih Çakmakli, Hasan; Ince, Elif; İnce, Erdal; Ertem, Mehmet

2014-10-01

Pulmonary chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGvHD) is one of the most common causes of morbidity and mortality after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (aHSCT). Herein, we describe a patient with severe restrictive lung defect secondary to cGvHD. A 21-year-old male patient was admitted to our pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) with pneumonia and respiratory distress. He had a history of aHSCT for chronic myelogeneous leukemia at the age of 17 years. Six months after undergoing aHSCT, he had developed cGvHD involving skin, mouth, eye, lung, liver, and gastrointestinal tract. At the time of PICU admission he had respiratory distress and required ventilation support. Thorax high-resolution computed tomography was consistent with bronchiolitis obliterans. Although bronchiolitis obliterans is an obstructive lung defect, a restrictive pattern became prominent in the clinical course because of the sclerotic chest wall skin. The activity of cGvHD kept increasing despite the therapy and we lost the patient because of severe respiratory distress and massive hemoptysis secondary to bronchiectasis. In conclusion, pulmonary cGvHD can present with restrictive changes related with the advanced sclerosis of the chest wall skin. Performing a fasciotomy or a scar revision for the rigid chest wall in selected patients may improve the patients ventilation.

Spatial and kinematic distributions of transition populations in intermediate redshift galaxy clusters

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

Crawford, Steven M.; Wirth, Gregory D.; Bershady, Matthew A., E-mail: crawford@saao.ac.za, E-mail: wirth@keck.hawaii.edu, E-mail: mab@astro.wisc.edu

2014-05-01

We analyze the spatial and velocity distributions of confirmed members in five massive clusters of galaxies at intermediate redshift (0.5 < z < 0.9) to investigate the physical processes driving galaxy evolution. Based on spectral classifications derived from broad- and narrow-band photometry, we define four distinct galaxy populations representing different evolutionary stages: red sequence (RS) galaxies, blue cloud (BC) galaxies, green valley (GV) galaxies, and luminous compact blue galaxies (LCBGs). For each galaxy class, we derive the projected spatial and velocity distribution and characterize the degree of subclustering. We find that RS, BC, and GV galaxies in these clusters havemore » similar velocity distributions, but that BC and GV galaxies tend to avoid the core of the two z ≈ 0.55 clusters. GV galaxies exhibit subclustering properties similar to RS galaxies, but their radial velocity distribution is significantly platykurtic compared to the RS galaxies. The absence of GV galaxies in the cluster cores may explain their somewhat prolonged star-formation history. The LCBGs appear to have recently fallen into the cluster based on their larger velocity dispersion, absence from the cores of the clusters, and different radial velocity distribution than the RS galaxies. Both LCBG and BC galaxies show a high degree of subclustering on the smallest scales, leading us to conclude that star formation is likely triggered by galaxy-galaxy interactions during infall into the cluster.« less

Effect of Nanoparticles on the Survival and Development of Vitrified Porcine GV Oocytes.

PubMed

Li, W J; Zhou, X L; Liu, B L; Dai, J J; Song, P; Teng, Y

BACKGROUND: Some mammalian oocytes have been successfully cryopreserved by vitrification. However, the survival and developmental rate of vitrified oocytes is still low. The incorporation of nanoparticles into cryoprotectant (CPA) may improve the efficiency of vitrification by changing the properties of solutions. The toxicity of different concentrations of hydroxy apatite (HA), silica dioxide (SO 2 ), aluminum oxide (Al 2 O 3 ) and titanium dioxide (TiO 2 ) nanoparticles (20 nm in diameter) to oocytes was tested and the toxicity threshold value of each nanoparticle was determined. Porcine GV oocytes were vitrified in optimized nano-CPA, and effects of diameter and concentration of nanoparticles on the survival rate and developmental rate of porcine GV oocytes were compared. HA nanoparticles have demonstrated the least toxicity among four nanoparticles and the developmental rate of GV-stage porcine oocytes was 100% when its concentration was lower than 0.5%. By adding 0.1% HA into VS, the developmental rate of GV-stage porcine oocytes (22%) was significantly higher than other groups. The effect of vitrification in nano-CPA on oocytes was related to the concentration of HA nanoparticles rather than their size. By adding 0.05% HA nanoparticles (60nm in diameter), the developmental rate increased dramatically from 14.7% to 30.4%. Nano-cryopreservation offers a new way to improve the effect of survival and development of oocytes, but the limitation of this technology shall not be ignored.

76 FR 73483 - Airworthiness Directives; Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation Model GV and GV-SP Airplanes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-11-29

...-fragment impact zone. This AD requires inspecting to determine whether a third Halon fire extinguisher bottle is installed in the auxiliary power unit (APU) fragment impact zone, revising the limitations... auxiliary power unit (APU) fragment impact zone, revising the limitations section of the airplane flight...

Combining mutualistic yeast and pathogenic virus - a novel method for control for codling moth control

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Studies evaluated the lethal effectiveness of combining yeasts isolated from larvae of codling moth, Cydia pomonella (L.) with the codling moth granulosis virus (CpGV). Apples were treated with CpGV and three yeast species, including Metschnikowia pulcherrima Pitt and Miller, Cryptococcus tephrensis...

The complete genome sequence of a second distinct betabaculovirus from the true armyworm, Mythimna unipuncta

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The betabaculovirus Pseudaletia (Mythimna) sp. granulovirus #8 (MyspGV#8) was examined by electron microscopy, host barcoding PCR, and determination of the nucleotide sequence of its genome. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy revealed that the occlusion bodies of MyspGV#8 possessed the c...

Human oocyte cryopreservation and the fate of cortical granules.

PubMed

Ghetler, Yehudith; Skutelsky, Ehud; Ben Nun, Isaac; Ben Dor, Liah; Amihai, Dina; Shalgi, Ruth

2006-07-01

To examine the effect of the commonly used oocyte cryopreservation protocol on the cortical granules (CGs) of human immature germinal vesicle (GV) and mature metaphase II (MII) oocytes. Laboratory study. IVF unit. Unfertilized, intracytoplasmic sperm injected (ICSI) oocytes, and immature oocytes were cryopreserved using a slow freezing-rapid thawing program with 1,2-propanediol (PROH) as a cryoprotectant. Cortical granule exocytosis (CGE) was assessed by either confocal microscopy or transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The survival rates of frozen-thawed oocytes (mature and immature) were significantly lower compared with zygotes. Both mature and immature oocytes exhibited increased fluorescence after cryopreservation, indicating the occurrence of CGE. Mere exposure of oocytes to cryoprotectants induced CGE of 70% the value of control zygotes. The TEM revealed a drastic reduction in the amount of CGs at the cortex of frozen-thawed GV and MII oocytes, as well as appearance of vesicles in the ooplasm. The commonly used PROH freezing protocol for human oocytes resulted in extensive CGE. This finding explains why ICSI is needed to achieve fertilization of frozen-thawed human oocytes.

Communication Skills to Develop Trusting Relationships on Global Virtual Engineering Capstone Teams

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zaugg, Holt; Davies, Randall S.

2013-01-01

As universities seek to provide cost-effective, cross-cultural experiences using global virtual (GV) teams, the "soft" communication skills typical of all teams, increases in importance for GV teams. Students need to be taught how to navigate through cultural issues and virtual tool issues to build strong trusting relationships with…

76 FR 36392 - Airworthiness Directives; Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation Model GV and GV-SP Airplanes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-06-22

... third Halon fire extinguisher bottle is installed in the auxiliary power unit (APU) fragment impact zone... that the third fire extinguisher bottle is mounted in a small-fragment impact zone. We are proposing... impact zone (rotor burst zone). Some operators might have installed this third fire extinguisher bottle...

Cosmic ray intensity variations at primary rigidities near 1900 GV

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, Y. W.; Mackeown, P. K.; Ng, L. K.

1985-01-01

Preliminary analysis of an experiment monitoring cosmic ray muons yields a first sidereal harmonic amplitude for rigidities around 1900 GV of (7.95 + or - 3.97) 10 to the 0.001 power at 5.1 + or - 1.9h right ascention. A significant anti-sidereal first harmonic is, however, also seen.

Targeting Ligand-Dependent and Ligand-Independent Androgen Receptor Signaling in Prostate Cancer

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-10-01

Nat Commun 2013: 4:1923. PMID: 23715282. Centenera MM, Gillis JL, Hanson AR, Jindal S, Taylor RA, Risbridger GP, Sutherland PD, Scher HI, Raj GV...Risbridger GP, Sutherland PD, Scher HI, Raj GV, Knudsen KE, Yeadon T; Australian Prostate Cancer BioResource, Tilley WD, Butler LM. Evidence for

Pregnancy and delivery after in vitro maturation of naked ICSI-GV oocytes with GH and transfer of a frozen thawed blastocyst: case report.

PubMed

Menezo, Yves J R; Nicollet, Bernard; Rollet, Jacques; Hazout, André

2006-01-01

To determine if GV oocytes, collected at the time of ICSI, can be matured in vitro and rescued for therapeutic treatment. A patient for whom all the collected oocytes at the GV stage after a classical COH protocol were matured in vitro with GH. All the naked oocytes were matured in a culture medium (ISM2) containing 15% patient serum +1.6 units of GH (Saizen) per millilitre. Oocytes were incubated overnight at 37 degrees C. The MII oocytes obtained were micro-injected. A fresh transfer was performed and a supernumerary blastocyst was frozen. The patient was pregnant and delivered a healthy girl after transfer of the frozen/thawed blastocyst. The baby girl is now 2 years old. In vitro maturation with GH allows rescuing naked GV oocytes collected at the time of ICSI. GH action does not pass through the cumulus cells. According to the possible lack of synchrony between the embryo and the uterus, we recommend to freeze the embryos obtained and to replace them in a controlled cycle.

Marrow grafts from HLA-identical siblings for severe aplastic anemia: does limiting the number of transplanted marrow cells reduce the risk of chronic GvHD?

PubMed

Gallo, S; Woolfrey, A E; Burroughs, L M; Storer, B E; Flowers, M E D; Hari, P; Pulsipher, M A; Heimfeld, S; Kiem, H-P; Sandmaier, B M; Storb, R

2016-12-01

A total of 21 patients with severe aplastic anemia (SAA) underwent marrow transplantation from HLA-identical siblings following a standard conditioning regimen with cyclophosphamide (50 mg/kg/day × 4 days) and horse antithymocyte globulin (30 mg/kg/day × 3 days). Post-grafting immunosuppression consisted of a short course of methotrexate (MTX) combined with cyclosporine (CSP). The transplant protocol tested the hypothesis that the incidence of chronic GvHD could be reduced by limiting the marrow grafts to ⩽2.5 × 10 8 nucleated marrow cells/kg. None of the patients rejected the graft, all had sustained engraftment and all are surviving at a median of 4 (range 1-8) years after transplantation. Chronic GvHD developed in 16% of patients given ⩽2.5 × 10 8 nucleated marrow cells/kg. Post-grafting immunosuppression has been discontinued in 20 of the 21 patients. In conclusion, limiting the number of transplanted marrow cells may have resulted in minimal improvement in the incidence and severity of chronic GvHD.

Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) for Esophageal and Gastric Varices: How Can it Improve the Outcomes and Reduce Complications of Glue Injection

PubMed Central

Bhatia, Vikram

2012-01-01

A large part of portal venous system and the paragastric and para-esophageal collateral circulation is within the reach of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS). The EUS is more sensitive than gastroscopy for the detection of gastric varices (GV), and can accurately distinguish GV from thickened gastric folds. Gastric varices are depicted by serpiginous, anechoic, Doppler-positive mural channels, with larger collateral channels visible outside the gastric wall. The EUS has also been used to monitor the completeness of GV obturation after glue injection. There are limited data that this strategy may be clinically beneficial to prevent GV re-bleed. The EUS has been used to deliver glue injections under real-time monitoring into the vascular channels, with or without steel coils as scaffolding for the glue. The potential advantages of this technique include a straight scope position, lack of hindrance from pooled blood in gastric fundus, smaller glue volume requirements, and precise intra-vascular placement of glue with avoidance of intramural injections, and reduced embolic complications. PMID:25755407

Antiproton Flux, Antiproton-to-Proton Flux Ratio, and Properties of Elementary Particle Fluxes in Primary Cosmic Rays Measured with the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer on the International Space Station.

PubMed

Aguilar, M; Ali Cavasonza, L; Alpat, B; Ambrosi, G; Arruda, L; Attig, N; Aupetit, S; Azzarello, P; Bachlechner, A; Barao, F; Barrau, A; Barrin, L; Bartoloni, A; Basara, L; Başeǧmez-du Pree, S; Battarbee, M; Battiston, R; Bazo, J; Becker, U; Behlmann, M; Beischer, B; Berdugo, J; Bertucci, B; Bindi, V; Boella, G; de Boer, W; Bollweg, K; Bonnivard, V; Borgia, B; Boschini, M J; Bourquin, M; Bueno, E F; Burger, J; Cadoux, F; Cai, X D; Capell, M; Caroff, S; Casaus, J; Castellini, G; Cernuda, I; Cervelli, F; Chae, M J; Chang, Y H; Chen, A I; Chen, G M; Chen, H S; Cheng, L; Chou, H Y; Choumilov, E; Choutko, V; Chung, C H; Clark, C; Clavero, R; Coignet, G; Consolandi, C; Contin, A; Corti, C; Coste, B; Creus, W; Crispoltoni, M; Cui, Z; Dai, Y M; Delgado, C; Della Torre, S; Demirköz, M B; Derome, L; Di Falco, S; Dimiccoli, F; Díaz, C; von Doetinchem, P; Dong, F; Donnini, F; Duranti, M; D'Urso, D; Egorov, A; Eline, A; Eronen, T; Feng, J; Fiandrini, E; Finch, E; Fisher, P; Formato, V; Galaktionov, Y; Gallucci, G; García, B; García-López, R J; Gargiulo, C; Gast, H; Gebauer, I; Gervasi, M; Ghelfi, A; Giovacchini, F; Goglov, P; Gómez-Coral, D M; Gong, J; Goy, C; Grabski, V; Grandi, D; Graziani, M; Guerri, I; Guo, K H; Habiby, M; Haino, S; Han, K C; He, Z H; Heil, M; Hoffman, J; Hsieh, T H; Huang, H; Huang, Z C; Huh, C; Incagli, M; Ionica, M; Jang, W Y; Jinchi, H; Kang, S C; Kanishev, K; Kim, G N; Kim, K S; Kirn, Th; Konak, C; Kounina, O; Kounine, A; Koutsenko, V; Krafczyk, M S; La Vacca, G; Laudi, E; Laurenti, G; Lazzizzera, I; Lebedev, A; Lee, H T; Lee, S C; Leluc, C; Li, H S; Li, J Q; Li, J Q; Li, Q; Li, T X; Li, W; Li, Z H; Li, Z Y; Lim, S; Lin, C H; Lipari, P; Lippert, T; Liu, D; Liu, Hu; Lu, S Q; Lu, Y S; Luebelsmeyer, K; Luo, F; Luo, J Z; Lv, S S; Majka, R; Mañá, C; Marín, J; Martin, T; Martínez, G; Masi, N; Maurin, D; Menchaca-Rocha, A; Meng, Q; Mo, D C; Morescalchi, L; Mott, P; Nelson, T; Ni, J Q; Nikonov, N; Nozzoli, F; Nunes, P; Oliva, A; Orcinha, M; Palmonari, F; Palomares, C; Paniccia, M; Pauluzzi, M; Pensotti, S; Pereira, R; Picot-Clemente, N; Pilo, F; Pizzolotto, C; Plyaskin, V; Pohl, M; Poireau, V; Putze, A; Quadrani, L; Qi, X M; Qin, X; Qu, Z Y; Räihä, T; Rancoita, P G; Rapin, D; Ricol, J S; Rodríguez, I; Rosier-Lees, S; Rozhkov, A; Rozza, D; Sagdeev, R; Sandweiss, J; Saouter, P; Schael, S; Schmidt, S M; Schulz von Dratzig, A; Schwering, G; Seo, E S; Shan, B S; Shi, J Y; Siedenburg, T; Son, D; Song, J W; Sun, W H; Tacconi, M; Tang, X W; Tang, Z C; Tao, L; Tescaro, D; Ting, Samuel C C; Ting, S M; Tomassetti, N; Torsti, J; Türkoğlu, C; Urban, T; Vagelli, V; Valente, E; Vannini, C; Valtonen, E; Vázquez Acosta, M; Vecchi, M; Velasco, M; Vialle, J P; Vitale, V; Vitillo, S; Wang, L Q; Wang, N H; Wang, Q L; Wang, X; Wang, X Q; Wang, Z X; Wei, C C; Weng, Z L; Whitman, K; Wienkenhöver, J; Willenbrock, M; Wu, H; Wu, X; Xia, X; Xiong, R Q; Xu, W; Yan, Q; Yang, J; Yang, M; Yang, Y; Yi, H; Yu, Y J; Yu, Z Q; Zeissler, S; Zhang, C; Zhang, J; Zhang, J H; Zhang, S D; Zhang, S W; Zhang, Z; Zheng, Z M; Zhu, Z Q; Zhuang, H L; Zhukov, V; Zichichi, A; Zimmermann, N; Zuccon, P

2016-08-26

A precision measurement by AMS of the antiproton flux and the antiproton-to-proton flux ratio in primary cosmic rays in the absolute rigidity range from 1 to 450 GV is presented based on 3.49×10^{5} antiproton events and 2.42×10^{9} proton events. The fluxes and flux ratios of charged elementary particles in cosmic rays are also presented. In the absolute rigidity range ∼60 to ∼500  GV, the antiproton p[over ¯], proton p, and positron e^{+} fluxes are found to have nearly identical rigidity dependence and the electron e^{-} flux exhibits a different rigidity dependence. Below 60 GV, the (p[over ¯]/p), (p[over ¯]/e^{+}), and (p/e^{+}) flux ratios each reaches a maximum. From ∼60 to ∼500  GV, the (p[over ¯]/p), (p[over ¯]/e^{+}), and (p/e^{+}) flux ratios show no rigidity dependence. These are new observations of the properties of elementary particles in the cosmos.

Within-Host Competition between Two Entomopathogenic Fungi and a Granulovirus in Diatraea saccharalis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae).

PubMed

Pauli, Giuliano; Moura Mascarin, Gabriel; Eilenberg, Jørgen; Delalibera Júnior, Italo

2018-06-13

We provide insights into how the interactions of two entomopathogenic fungi and a virus play a role in virulence, disease development, and pathogen reproduction for an economically important insect crop pest, the sugarcane borer Diatraea saccharalis (Fabricius) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae). In our model system, we highlight the antagonistic effects of the co-inoculation of Beauveria bassiana and granulovirus (DisaGV) on virulence, compared to their single counterparts. By contrast, combinations of Metarhizium anisopliae and B. bassiana , or M. anisopliae and DisaGV, have resulted in additive effects against the insect. Intriguingly, most cadavers that were derived from dual or triple infections, produced signs/symptoms of only one species after the death of the infected host. In the combination of fungi and DisaGV, there was a trend where a higher proportion of viral infection bearing conspicuous symptoms occurred, except when the larvae were inoculated with M. anisopliae and DisaGV at the two highest inoculum rates. Co-infections with B. bassiana and M. anisopliae did not affect pathogen reproduction, since the sporulation from co-inoculated larvae did not differ from their single counterparts.

Antiproton Flux, Antiproton-to-Proton Flux Ratio, and Properties of Elementary Particle Fluxes in Primary Cosmic Rays Measured with the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer on the International Space Station

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aguilar, M.; Ali Cavasonza, L.; Alpat, B.; Ambrosi, G.; Arruda, L.; Attig, N.; Aupetit, S.; Azzarello, P.; Bachlechner, A.; Barao, F.; Barrau, A.; Barrin, L.; Bartoloni, A.; Basara, L.; Başeǧmez-du Pree, S.; Battarbee, M.; Battiston, R.; Bazo, J.; Becker, U.; Behlmann, M.; Beischer, B.; Berdugo, J.; Bertucci, B.; Bindi, V.; Boella, G.; de Boer, W.; Bollweg, K.; Bonnivard, V.; Borgia, B.; Boschini, M. J.; Bourquin, M.; Bueno, E. F.; Burger, J.; Cadoux, F.; Cai, X. D.; Capell, M.; Caroff, S.; Casaus, J.; Castellini, G.; Cernuda, I.; Cervelli, F.; Chae, M. J.; Chang, Y. H.; Chen, A. I.; Chen, G. M.; Chen, H. S.; Cheng, L.; Chou, H. Y.; Choumilov, E.; Choutko, V.; Chung, C. H.; Clark, C.; Clavero, R.; Coignet, G.; Consolandi, C.; Contin, A.; Corti, C.; Coste, B.; Creus, W.; Crispoltoni, M.; Cui, Z.; Dai, Y. M.; Delgado, C.; Della Torre, S.; Demirköz, M. B.; Derome, L.; Di Falco, S.; Dimiccoli, F.; Díaz, C.; von Doetinchem, P.; Dong, F.; Donnini, F.; Duranti, M.; D'Urso, D.; Egorov, A.; Eline, A.; Eronen, T.; Feng, J.; Fiandrini, E.; Finch, E.; Fisher, P.; Formato, V.; Galaktionov, Y.; Gallucci, G.; García, B.; García-López, R. J.; Gargiulo, C.; Gast, H.; Gebauer, I.; Gervasi, M.; Ghelfi, A.; Giovacchini, F.; Goglov, P.; Gómez-Coral, D. M.; Gong, J.; Goy, C.; Grabski, V.; Grandi, D.; Graziani, M.; Guerri, I.; Guo, K. H.; Habiby, M.; Haino, S.; Han, K. C.; He, Z. H.; Heil, M.; Hoffman, J.; Hsieh, T. H.; Huang, H.; Huang, Z. C.; Huh, C.; Incagli, M.; Ionica, M.; Jang, W. Y.; Jinchi, H.; Kang, S. C.; Kanishev, K.; Kim, G. N.; Kim, K. S.; Kirn, Th.; Konak, C.; Kounina, O.; Kounine, A.; Koutsenko, V.; Krafczyk, M. S.; La Vacca, G.; Laudi, E.; Laurenti, G.; Lazzizzera, I.; Lebedev, A.; Lee, H. T.; Lee, S. C.; Leluc, C.; Li, H. S.; Li, J. Q.; Li, J. Q.; Li, Q.; Li, T. X.; Li, W.; Li, Z. H.; Li, Z. Y.; Lim, S.; Lin, C. H.; Lipari, P.; Lippert, T.; Liu, D.; Liu, Hu; Lu, S. Q.; Lu, Y. S.; Luebelsmeyer, K.; Luo, F.; Luo, J. Z.; Lv, S. S.; Majka, R.; Mañá, C.; Marín, J.; Martin, T.; Martínez, G.; Masi, N.; Maurin, D.; Menchaca-Rocha, A.; Meng, Q.; Mo, D. C.; Morescalchi, L.; Mott, P.; Nelson, T.; Ni, J. Q.; Nikonov, N.; Nozzoli, F.; Nunes, P.; Oliva, A.; Orcinha, M.; Palmonari, F.; Palomares, C.; Paniccia, M.; Pauluzzi, M.; Pensotti, S.; Pereira, R.; Picot-Clemente, N.; Pilo, F.; Pizzolotto, C.; Plyaskin, V.; Pohl, M.; Poireau, V.; Putze, A.; Quadrani, L.; Qi, X. M.; Qin, X.; Qu, Z. Y.; Räihä, T.; Rancoita, P. G.; Rapin, D.; Ricol, J. S.; Rodríguez, I.; Rosier-Lees, S.; Rozhkov, A.; Rozza, D.; Sagdeev, R.; Sandweiss, J.; Saouter, P.; Schael, S.; Schmidt, S. M.; Schulz von Dratzig, A.; Schwering, G.; Seo, E. S.; Shan, B. S.; Shi, J. Y.; Siedenburg, T.; Son, D.; Song, J. W.; Sun, W. H.; Tacconi, M.; Tang, X. W.; Tang, Z. C.; Tao, L.; Tescaro, D.; Ting, Samuel C. C.; Ting, S. M.; Tomassetti, N.; Torsti, J.; Türkoǧlu, C.; Urban, T.; Vagelli, V.; Valente, E.; Vannini, C.; Valtonen, E.; Vázquez Acosta, M.; Vecchi, M.; Velasco, M.; Vialle, J. P.; Vitale, V.; Vitillo, S.; Wang, L. Q.; Wang, N. H.; Wang, Q. L.; Wang, X.; Wang, X. Q.; Wang, Z. X.; Wei, C. C.; Weng, Z. L.; Whitman, K.; Wienkenhöver, J.; Willenbrock, M.; Wu, H.; Wu, X.; Xia, X.; Xiong, R. Q.; Xu, W.; Yan, Q.; Yang, J.; Yang, M.; Yang, Y.; Yi, H.; Yu, Y. J.; Yu, Z. Q.; Zeissler, S.; Zhang, C.; Zhang, J.; Zhang, J. H.; Zhang, S. D.; Zhang, S. W.; Zhang, Z.; Zheng, Z. M.; Zhu, Z. Q.; Zhuang, H. L.; Zhukov, V.; Zichichi, A.; Zimmermann, N.; Zuccon, P.; AMS Collaboration

2016-08-01

A precision measurement by AMS of the antiproton flux and the antiproton-to-proton flux ratio in primary cosmic rays in the absolute rigidity range from 1 to 450 GV is presented based on 3.49 ×1 05 antiproton events and 2.42 ×1 09 proton events. The fluxes and flux ratios of charged elementary particles in cosmic rays are also presented. In the absolute rigidity range ˜60 to ˜500 GV , the antiproton p ¯, proton p , and positron e+ fluxes are found to have nearly identical rigidity dependence and the electron e- flux exhibits a different rigidity dependence. Below 60 GV, the (p ¯/p ), (p ¯/e+), and (p /e+) flux ratios each reaches a maximum. From ˜60 to ˜500 GV , the (p ¯/p ), (p ¯/e+), and (p /e+) flux ratios show no rigidity dependence. These are new observations of the properties of elementary particles in the cosmos.

Green valley galaxies as a transition population in different environments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Coenda, Valeria; Martínez, Héctor J.; Muriel, Hernán

2018-02-01

We present a comparative analysis of the properties of passive, star-forming and transition (green valley) galaxies in four discrete environments: field, groups, the outskirts and the core of X-ray clusters. We construct samples of galaxies from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey in these environments so that they are bound to have similar redshift distributions. The classification of galaxies into the three sequences is based on the UV-optical colour NUV - r. We study a number of galaxy properties: stellar mass, morphology, specific star formation rate and the history of star formation. The analysis of green valley (GV) galaxies reveals that the physical mechanisms responsible for external quenching become more efficient moving from the field to denser environments. We confirm previous findings that GV galaxies have intermediate morphologies; moreover, we find that this appears to be independent of the environment. Regarding the stellar mass of GV galaxies, we find that they tend to be more massive in the field than in denser environments. On average, GV galaxies account for ∼ 20 per cent of all galaxies in groups and X-ray clusters. We find evidence that the field environment is inefficient in transforming low-mass galaxies. GV galaxies have average star formation histories intermediate between passive and star-forming galaxies, and have a clear and consistent dependence on the environment: both, the quenching time and the amplitude of the star formation rate, decrease towards higher density environments.

Searching for Prebiotically Important Molecules in Protoplanetary Disks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gibb, Erika L.; Brown, L. R.; Sudholt, E.

2012-05-01

Understanding how prebiotic molecules form and are distributed around young stars is an important step in determining how and where life can form in planetary systems. In general, protoplanetary disks consist of a cold, dense midplane where, beyond the frost line, water and organic molecules will condense onto dust grains as icy coatings. The surface of the disk is exposed to stellar and interstellar radiation, giving rise to a photon-dominated region characterized by ionization and dissociation products. Between these two layers is a warm molecular layer where a rich molecular chemistry is predicted to occur. The warm molecular layer is somewhat protected from ionizing radiation by the dust and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the surface region. We present a high-resolution (λ / Δλ 25,000), near-infrared spectroscopic survey of the L-band toward T Tauri star GV Tau N. The data were acquired with the NIRSPEC instrument on the Keck II telescope, located on Mauna Kea, HI. We detected strong HCN absorption lines that we interpret to be located in the warm molecular layer of a nearly edge-on protoplanetary disk. We discuss significant differences in spectra acquired in 2006 and 2010 and implications for the material in the disk of GV Tau N, including rotational temperatures, abundances, and inferred location. This work was supported by the NSF Stellar Astronomy Program (Grant #0908230) and the NASA Exobiology program (NNX11AG44G).

The LacI–Family Transcription Factor, RbsR, Is a Pleiotropic Regulator of Motility, Virulence, Siderophore and Antibiotic Production, Gas Vesicle Morphogenesis and Flotation in Serratia

PubMed Central

Lee, Chin M.; Monson, Rita E.; Adams, Rachel M.; Salmond, George P. C.

2017-01-01

Gas vesicles (GVs) are proteinaceous, gas-filled organelles used by some bacteria to enable upward movement into favorable air/liquid interfaces in aquatic environments. Serratia sp. ATCC39006 (S39006) was the first enterobacterium discovered to produce GVs naturally. The regulation of GV assembly in this host is complex and part of a wider regulatory network affecting various phenotypes, including antibiotic biosynthesis. To identify new regulators of GVs, a comprehensive mutant library containing 71,000 insertion mutants was generated by random transposon mutagenesis and 311 putative GV-defective mutants identified. Three of these mutants were found to have a transposon inserted in a LacI family transcription regulator gene (rbsR) of the putative ribose operon. Each of these rbsR mutants was GV-defective; no GVs were visible by phase contrast microscopy (PCM) or transmission electron microscopy (TEM). GV deficiency was caused by the reduction of gvpA1 and gvrA transcription (the first genes of the two contiguous operons in the GV gene locus). Our results also showed that a mutation in rbsR was highly pleiotropic; the production of two secondary metabolites (carbapenem and prodigiosin antibiotics) was abolished. Interestingly, the intrinsic resistance to the carbapenem antibiotic was not affected by the rbsR mutation. In addition, the production of a siderophore, cellulase and plant virulence was reduced in the mutant, whereas it exhibited increased swimming and swarming motility. The RbsR protein was predicted to bind to regions upstream of at least 18 genes in S39006 including rbsD (the first gene of the ribose operon) and gvrA. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSA) confirmed that RbsR bound to DNA sequences upstream of rbsD, but not gvrA. The results of this study indicate that RbsR is a global regulator that affects the modulation of GV biogenesis, but also with complex pleiotropic physiological impacts in S39006. PMID:28955306

EPINEPHRINE OR GV-26 ELECTRICAL STIMULATION REDUCES INHALANT ANESTHESTIC RECOVERY TIME IN COMMON SNAPPING TURTLES (CHELYDRA SERPENTINA).

PubMed

Goe, Alexandra; Shmalberg, Justin; Gatson, Bonnie; Bartolini, Pia; Curtiss, Jeff; Wellehan, James F X

2016-06-01

Prolonged anesthetic recovery times are a common clinical problem in reptiles following inhalant anesthesia. Diving reptiles have numerous adaptations that allow them to submerge and remain apneic for extended periods. An ability to shunt blood away from pulmonary circulation, possibly due to changes in adrenergic tone, may contribute to their unpredictable inhalant anesthetic recovery times. Therefore, the use of epinephrine could antagonize this response and reduce recovery time. GV-26, an acupuncture point with reported β-adrenergic and respiratory effects, has reduced anesthetic recovery times in other species. In this prospective randomized crossover study, six common snapping turtles (Chelydra serpentina) were anesthetized with inhalant isoflurane for 90 min. Turtles were assigned one of three treatments, given immediately following discontinuation of isoflurane: a control treatment (0.9% saline, at 0.1 ml/kg i.m.), epinephrine (0.1 mg/kg i.m.), or acupuncture with electrical stimulation at GV-26. Each turtle received all treatments, and treatments were separated by 48 hr. Return of spontaneous ventilation was 55% faster in turtles given epinephrine and 58% faster in the GV-26 group versus saline (P < 0.001). The times to movement and to complete recovery were also significantly faster for both treatments than for saline (P < 0.02). Treated turtles displayed increases in temperature not documented in the control (P < 0.001). Turtles administered epinephrine showed significantly increased heart rates and end-tidal CO(2) (P < 0.001). No adverse effects were noted in the study animals. The mechanisms of action were not elucidated in the present investigation. Nevertheless, the use of parenteral epinephrine or GV-26 stimulation in the immediate postanesthetic period produces clinically relevant reductions in anesthetic recovery time in common snapping turtle. Further research is necessary to evaluate the effects of concurrent GV-26 and epinephrine administration and to assess responses in other reptilian species.

Effect of recombinant-LH and hCG in the absence of FSH on in vitro maturation (IVM) fertilization and early embryonic development of mouse germinal vesicle (GV)-stage oocytes.

PubMed

Dinopoulou, Vasiliki; Drakakis, Peter; Kefala, Stella; Kiapekou, Erasmia; Bletsa, Ritsa; Anagnostou, Elli; Kallianidis, Konstantinos; Loutradis, Dimitrios

2016-06-01

During in vitro maturation (IVM), intrinsic and extrinsic factors must co-operate properly in order to ensure cytoplasmic and nuclear maturation. We examined the possible effect of LH/hCG in the process of oocyte maturation in mice with the addition of recombinant LH (r-LH) and hCG in our IVM cultures of mouse germinal vesicle (GV)-stage oocytes. Moreover, the effects of these hormones on fertilization, early embryonic development and the expression of LH/hCG receptor were examined. Nuclear maturation of GV-stage oocytes was evaluated after culture in the presence of r-LH or hCG. Fertilization rates and embryonic development were assessed after 24h. Total RNA was isolated from oocytes of different stages of maturation and from zygotes and embryos of different stages of development in order to examine the expression of LH/hCG receptor, using RT-PCR. The in vitro nuclear maturation rate of GV-stage oocytes that received hCG was significantly higher compared to the control group. Early embryonic development was increased in the hCG and LH cultures of GV oocytes when LH was further added. The LH/hCG receptor was expressed in all stages of in vitro matured mouse oocytes and in every stage of early embryonic development. Addition of hCG in IVM cultures of mouse GV oocytes increased maturation rates significantly. LH, however, was more beneficial to early embryonic development than hCG. This suggests a promising new technique in basic science research or in clinical reproductive medicine. Copyright © 2016 Society for Biology of Reproduction & the Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn. Published by Elsevier Urban & Partner Sp. z o.o. All rights reserved.

Allogeneic peripheral blood stem cell transplantation in patients with haematological malignancies.

PubMed

Shamsi, T S; Irfan, M; Ansari, S H; Farzana, T; Khalid, M Z; Panjwani, V K; Baig, M I; Shakoor, N

2004-09-01

To report the initial data on allogeneic peripheral blood stem cell transplantation for haematological malignancies in Pakistan. A single centre descriptive study. Bismillah Taqee Institute of Health Sciences and Blood Diseases Centre from September 1999 to June 2004. Patients with haematological malignancies were included who had received allogeneic PBSC transplantation of Filgrastim (rhG-CSF) mobilized peripheral blood stem cells from HLA-identical siblings (except one 5/6 antigen sibling) with Busulphan and Cyclophosphamide standard conditioning therapy in all patients. No patient received antibiotics for gut decontamination. Empirical antibiotics included Ceftriaxone and Amikacin for febrile neutropenia, oral Itraconazole for antifungal prophylaxis while oral acyclovir was used for antiviral prophylaxis. All donors and recipients were CMV IgG positive Cyclosporin A / Methotrexate were given for graft versus host disease (GvHD) prophylaxis. Stem cells were harvested using Haemonetics MCS+ cell separator. All patients received G-CSF starting from day +4 until their neutrophil count rose to normal. There were 21 patients with age range of 8-38 years and male to female ratio of 2:1. Engraftment was achieved in all patients; median time to absolute neutrophil count of > 0.5 x 10(9)/l was 10 days (range 8 - 12 days) and platelet count of > 20 x 10(9)/l was 14 days (12-17 days). Acute graft versus host disease ( aGvHD) was seen in 7 patients; one patient had grade IV skin and hepatic GvHD; another patient had grade III gut GvHD, grade II GvHD was seen in 3 patients while grade I skin aGvHD was seen in 2 patients. Median hospital stay was 34 days. Treatment related mortality was seen in 3 patients (18%). Chronic GvHD was seen in 5 patients. Four more patients died during the follow-up period. Malaria was seen in 2 while tuberculosis developed in one case. Relapse was seen in 2 patients. The estimated probability of survival at one hundred day, at one year and five years was 82, 47 and 40 percent respectively. Haematopoietic stem cell transplant programme can be developed in a developed country setting. Post transplant complications are similar to what have been reported in the developed countries. In endemic areas malaria could prove to be fatal if not recognised and treated early.

Impact of Thymoglobulin by Stem Cell Source (Peripheral Blood Stem Cell or Bone Marrow) After Myeloablative Stem Cell Transplantation From HLA 10/10-Matched Unrelated Donors: A Report From the Société Française de Greffe de Moelle et de Thérapie Cellulaire.

PubMed

Ravinet, Aurelie; Cabrespine, Aurelie; Socié, Gerard; Milpied, Noël; Yakoub Agha, Ibrahim; Nguyen, Stephanie; Michallet, Mauricette; Menard, Anne Lise; Maillard, Natacha; Mohty, Mohamad; Suarez, Felipe; Huynh, Anne; Marchand, Tony; Deteix, Clémence; Cassuto, Jill Patrice; Maury, Sebastien; Chevallier, Patrice; Reman, Oumedaly; Peffault de Latour, Régis; Bay, Jacques Olivier

2016-08-01

The impact of antithymocyte globulin (ATG) in the setting of a myeloablative conditioning transplantation remains controversial, especially when using bone marrow (BM) as the stem cell source. We therefore conducted a retrospective analysis to investigate the impact of ATG in patients with acute myeloid leukemia or myelodysplastic syndrome receiving myeloablative conditioning followed by a matched 10 of 10 unrelated donor transplant from BM or peripheral blood stem cells (PBSCs). Our study included 356 patients conditioned with cyclophosphamide associated with fractionated total body irradiation or busulfan. Median follow-up was 17.6 months (range, 0-156). The ATG and PBSCs were the only variables that independently decreased the cumulative incidence (CI) of chronic graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) (hazards ratio [HR], 0.4; 95% CI, 0.21-0.73; P < 0.01; and HR, 0.53; 95% CI, 0.30-0.90; P = 0.02, respectively). The ATG had no impact on overall survival, disease-free survival, relapse, and nonrelapse mortality. In the PBSC group (n = 139), ATG was associated with a lower CI of both grades III to IV acute GvHD (HR, 0.17; 95% CI, 0.03-0.91; P = 0.04), chronic GvHD (HR, 0.31; 95% CI, 0.11-0.87; P = 0.03), and GvHD-free/relapse-free survival (HR, 0.48; 95% CI, 0.29-0.80; P < 0.01), whereas these correlations were not significant in the group of patients (n = 217) receiving BM (HR, 0.36; 95% CI, 0.11-1.93; P = 0.06 for grade III-IV acute GvHD; HR, 0.49; 95% CI, 0.22-1.06; P = 0.08 for chronic GvHD; and HR, 0.69; 95% CI, 0.46-1.01; P = 0.06 for GvHD-free/relapse-free survival). Although our results confirm the recommendation for ATG to be added after PBSC transplantation, no obvious benefit was identified using this approach in the setting of BM transplantation. Only prospective studies may yield definitive answers to this question.

Continuous versus bolus tube feeds: Does the modality affect glycemic variability, tube feeding volume, caloric intake, or insulin utilization?

PubMed

Evans, David C; Forbes, Rachel; Jones, Christian; Cotterman, Robert; Njoku, Chinedu; Thongrong, Cattleya; Tulman, David; Bergese, Sergio D; Thomas, Sheela; Papadimos, Thomas J; Stawicki, Stanislaw P

2016-01-01

Enteral nutrition (EN) is very important to optimizing outcomes in critical illness. Debate exists regarding the best strategy for enteral tube feeding (TF), with concerns that bolus TF (BTF) may increase glycemic variability (GV) but result in fewer nutritional interruptions than continuous TF (CTF). This study examines if there is a difference in GV, insulin usage, TF volume, and caloric delivery among intensive care patients receiving BTF versus CTF. We hypothesize that there are no significant differences between CTF and BTF when comparing the above parameters. Prospective, randomized pilot study of critically ill adult patients undergoing percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) placement for EN was performed between March 1, 2012 and May 15, 2014. Patients were randomized to BTF or CTF. Glucose values, insulin use, TF volume, and calories administered were recorded. Data were organized into 12-h epochs for statistical analyses and GV determination. In addition, time to ≥80% nutritional delivery goal, demographics, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II scores, and TF interruptions were examined. When performing BTF versus CTF assessments, continuous parameters were compared using Mann-Whitney U-test or repeated measures t-test, as appropriate. Categorical data were analyzed using Fisher's exact test. No significant demographic or physiologic differences between the CTF (n = 24) and BTF (n = 26) groups were seen. The immediate post-PEG 12-h epoch showed significantly lower GV and median TF volume for patients in the CTF group. All subsequent epochs (up to 18 days post-PEG) showed no differences in GV, insulin use, TF volume, or caloric intake. Insulin use for both groups increased when comparing the first 24 h post-PEG values to measurements from day 8. There were no differences in TF interruptions, time to ≥80% nutritional delivery goal, or hypoglycemic episodes. This study demonstrated no clinically relevant differences in GV, insulin use, TF volume or caloric intake between BTF and CTF groups. Despite some shortcomings, our data suggest that providers should not feel limited to BTF or CTF because of concerns for GV, time to goal nutrition, insulin use, or caloric intake, and should consider other factors such as resource utilization, ease of administration, and/or institutional/patient characteristics.

In vitro assessment of artifacts induced by titanium, titanium-zirconium and zirconium dioxide implants in cone-beam computed tomography.

PubMed

Sancho-Puchades, Manuel; Hämmerle, Christoph H F; Benic, Goran I

2015-10-01

The aim of this study was to test whether or not the intensity of artifacts around implants in cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) differs between titanium, titanium-zirconium and zirconium dioxide implants. Twenty models of a human mandible, each containing one implant in the single-tooth gap position 45, were cast in dental stone. Five test models were produced for each of the following implant types: titanium 4.1 mm diameter (Ti4.1 ), titanium 3.3 mm diameter (Ti3.3 ), titanium-zirconium 3.3 mm diameter (TiZr3.3 ) and zirconium dioxide 3.5-4.5 mm diameter (ZrO3.5-4.5 ) implants. For control purposes, three models without implants were produced. Each model was scanned using a CBCT device. Gray values (GV) were recorded at eight circumferential positions around the implants at 0.5 mm, 1 mm and 2 mm from the implant surface (GVT est ). GV were assessed in the corresponding volumes of interest (VOI) in the control models without implants (GVC ontrol ). Differences of gray values (ΔGV) between GVT est and GVC ontrol were calculated as percentages. One-way ANOVA and post hoc tests were applied to detect differences between implant types. Mean ΔGV for ZrO3.5-4.5 presented the highest absolute values, generally followed by TiZr3.3 , Ti4.1 and Ti3.3 implants. The differences of ΔGV between ZrO3.5-4.5 and the remaining groups were statistically significant in the majority of the VOI (P ≤ 0.0167). ΔGV for TiZr3.3 , Ti4.1 and Ti3.3 implants did not differ significantly in the most VOI. For all implant types, ΔGV showed positive values buccally, mesio-buccally, lingually and disto-lingually, whereas negative values were detected mesially and distally. Zirconium dioxide implants generate significantly more artifacts as compared to titanium and titanium-zirconium implants. The intensity of artifacts around zirconium dioxide implants exhibited in average the threefold in comparison with titanium implants. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

On Utilization of NEXRAD Scan Strategy Information to Infer Discrepancies Associated With Radar and Rain Gauge Surface Volumetric Rainfall Accumulations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Roy, Biswadev; Datta, Saswati; Jones, W. Linwood; Kasparis, Takis; Einaudi, Franco (Technical Monitor)

2000-01-01

To evaluate the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) monthly Ground Validation (GV) rain map, 42 quality controlled tipping bucket rain gauge data (1 minute interpolated rain rates) were utilized. We have compared the gauge data to the surface volumetric rainfall accumulation of NEXRAD reflectivity field, (converting to rain rates using a 0.5 dB resolution smooth Z-R table). The comparison was carried out from data collected at Melbourne, Florida during the month of July 98. GV operational level 3 (L3 monthly) accumulation algorithm was used to obtain surface volumetric accumulations for the radar. The gauge records were accumulated using the 1 minute interpolated rain rates while the radar Volume Scan (VOS) intervals remain less than or equal to 75 minutes. The correlation coefficient for the radar and gauge totals for the monthly time-scale remain at 0.93, however, a large difference was noted between the gauge and radar derived rain accumulation when the radar data interval is either 9 minute, or 10 minute. This difference in radar and gauge accumulation is being explained in terms of the radar scan strategy information. The discrepancy in terms of the Volume Coverage Pattern (VCP) of the NEXRAD is being reported where VCP mode is ascertained using the radar tilt angle information. Hourly radar and gauge accumulations have been computed using the present operational L3 method supplemented with a threshold period of +/- 5 minutes (based on a sensitivity analysis). These radar and gauge accumulations are subsequently improved using a radar hourly scan weighting factor (taking ratio of the radar scan frequency within a time bin to the 7436 total radar scans for the month). This GV procedure is further being improved by introducing a spatial smoothing method to yield reasonable bulk radar to gauge ratio for the hourly and daily scales.

Gender Variance Among Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Retrospective Chart Review.

PubMed

Janssen, Aron; Huang, Howard; Duncan, Christina

2016-01-01

Purpose: Increasing clinical evidence suggests an overrepresentation of gender variance (GV) among patients with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). This retrospective chart review aims to contribute to the existing literature on co-occurring ASD and gender dysphoria (GD). We compare the rate of parent-reported GV in patients with an ASD diagnosis to that of parent-reported GV in a normative nonreferred data set. Methods: Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) charts were collected from 492 children and adolescents (409 natal males and 83 natal females) aged 6-18 years who have received a diagnosis of ASD at the New York University Child Study Center. Parent-reported GV was determined through endorsement of CBCL sex item 110, which assesses the presence of gender-related issues. We calculated the odds ratio of endorsement of item 110 between our ASD sample and the CBCL sample data. Results: The subjects diagnosed with ASD were 7.76 times more likely to report GV than the CBCL sample. This finding was statistically significant. About 5.1% of the patients in the ASD group and 0.7% of the CBCL nonreferred group endorsed sex item 110. 5.1% of natal males and 4.8% of natal females endorsed sex item 110. Neither gender nor age influenced the rate of endorsement. Conclusion: This finding supports the growing research suggesting a heightened co-occurrence rate of ASD and GD. Focus should be placed upon improving our understanding of the nature of this co-occurrence and on gender identity development within the atypical development of ASD.

Effect of Fetal Mouse Lung Tissue Co-Culture on In Vitro Maturation of Mouse Immature Oocytes.

PubMed

Belbasi, Masomeh; Jorsaraei, Seyed Gholam Ali; Gholamitabar Tabari, Maryam; Khanbabaei, Ramzan

2017-10-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the fetal mouse lung tissue co-culture on in vitro maturation (IVM) of mouse immature oocytes. In this experimental study, germinal vesicle (GV) oocytes from ovaries of a group of 25 female mice, 6-8 weeks of age, were dissected after being stimulated by 7.5 IU pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG) through an intraperitoneal (IP) injection. The fetal lung tissues were then prepared and cultured individually. A total number of 300 oocytes were cultured in the following three groups for 24 hours: control group (n=100) containing only base medium, group I (n=100) containing base medium co-cultured with 11.5- to 12.5-day old fetal mouse lung tissues, and group II (n=100) containing base medium co-cultured with 12.5- to 13.5-day old fetal mouse lung tissues. The proportion of GV and metaphase І (MI) oocytes matured into MІІ oocytes were compared among the three groups using analysis of variance (ANOVA). Correlation test were also used to evaluate the successful rate of IVM oocytes. The proportions of GV oocytes reaching MІІ stage were 46, 65, and 56%, in control, I and II groups, respectively (P<0.05). The percentage of the oocytes remaining at the GV stage were higher in control group as compared with two treatment groups (P<0.05). This study indicated that fetal mouse lung tissue co-culture method increased the percentage of GV oocytes reaching MII stage. Copyright© by Royan Institute. All rights reserved.

Efficiency of allogeneic hematopoietic SCT from HLA fully-matched non-sibling relatives: a new prospect of exploiting extended family search.

PubMed

Hamidieh, A A; Dehaghi, M Ostadali; Paragomi, P; Navaei, S; Jalali, A; Eslami, G Ghazizadeh; Behfar, M; Ghavamzadeh, A

2015-04-01

The best donors for hematopoietic SCT (HSCT) are fully-matched siblings. In patients without fully-matched siblings, HLA registries or cord blood banks are alternative strategies with some restrictions. Owing to the high rate of consanguineous marriage in our country, between 2006 and 2013, extended family searches were undertaken in Hematology-Oncology Research Center and Stem Cell Transplantation (HORCSCT), Tehran, Iran, in 523 HSCT candidates with parental consanguinity and no available HLA identical sibling. Fully-matched other-relative donors were found for 109 cases. We retrospectively studied the HSCT outcome in these patients. Median time to neutrophil engraftment was 13 days (range: 9-31days). In 83 patients, full chimerism and in 17 patients, mixed chimerism was achieved. Acute GvHD (aGvHD) grade II-IV appeared in 36 patients (33%). The frequency of aGvHD development in various familial subgroups was NS. Five patients expired before day+100. In the surviving 104 cases, chronic GvHD developed in 20 patients (19.2%). The distantly related subgroup had significantly a higher rate of cGvHD (P=0.04). The 2-year OS and disease-free survival (DFS) were 76.7±4.5% and 71.7±4.7%, respectively. No significant difference in OS (P=0.30) and DFS (P=0.80) was unraveled between various familial relationships. Our considerable rate of fully-matched non-sibling family members and the favorable outcome support the rationale for extended family search in regions where consanguineous marriage is widely practiced.

Chromatin configurations in the ferret germinal vesicle that reflect developmental competence for in vitro maturation.

PubMed

Sun, X; Li, Z; Yi, Y; Ding, W; Chen, J; Engelhardt, J F; Leno, G H

2009-04-01

In several mammalian species, the configuration of germinal vesicle (GV) chromatin correlates with the developmental competence of oocytes. Yet, no study has been published on the configuration of GV chromatin in ferret, nor is it known whether a specific configuration predicts meiotic competence in this species, in spite of the potential importance of ferret cloning to the study of human disease and to species conservation efforts. Here, we report on an analysis of the chromatin configuration in ferret GV oocytes and on how they correlate with meiotic development. Three distinct configurations were identified based on the degree of chromatin condensation: (1) fibrillar chromatin (FC), featuring strands of intertwined chromatin occupying most of the visible GV region; (2) intermediate condensed chromatin (ICC), characterized by dense, irregular chromatin masses throughout the GV; and (3) condensed chromatin (CC), which is highly compact and centered around the nucleolus. We also found that chromatin configuration was related to the extent of association with cumulus cells in cumulus-oocyte complexes; CC-configured oocytes were most often surrounded by a compact cumulus layer and also a compact corona but FC-configured oocytes were associated with neither. In addition, increasing chromatin condensation corresponded to an increase in oocyte diameter. Finally, following in vitro culture, significantly more CC-configured oocytes underwent maturation to meiotic metaphase II than did FC- or ICC-configured oocytes. We conclude that, in ferret, chromatin condensation is related to the sequential achievement of meiotic competencies during oocyte growth and differentiation, and thus can be used as a predictor of competence.

Histopathology and effect on development of the PoGV on larvae of the potato tuberworm, Phthorimaea operculella (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae)

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Potato tuberworm (PTW), is a major pest of potato in the tropics and subtropics worldwide. Larvae feed on potato plants and stored tubers and infestations of tubers in rustic storage (i.e. without refrigeration), can result in up to 100% damage. Application of a granulovirus of PTW (PoGV) to stored...

Genomic comparison of closely related Giant Viruses supports an accordion-like model of evolution.

PubMed

Filée, Jonathan

2015-01-01

Genome gigantism occurs so far in Phycodnaviridae and Mimiviridae (order Megavirales). Origin and evolution of these Giant Viruses (GVs) remain open questions. Interestingly, availability of a collection of closely related GV genomes enabling genomic comparisons offer the opportunity to better understand the different evolutionary forces acting on these genomes. Whole genome alignment for five groups of viruses belonging to the Mimiviridae and Phycodnaviridae families show that there is no trend of genome expansion or general tendency of genome contraction. Instead, GV genomes accumulated genomic mutations over the time with gene gains compensating the different losses. In addition, each lineage displays specific patterns of genome evolution. Mimiviridae (megaviruses and mimiviruses) and Chlorella Phycodnaviruses evolved mainly by duplications and losses of genes belonging to large paralogous families (including movements of diverse mobiles genetic elements), whereas Micromonas and Ostreococcus Phycodnaviruses derive most of their genetic novelties thought lateral gene transfers. Taken together, these data support an accordion-like model of evolution in which GV genomes have undergone successive steps of gene gain and gene loss, accrediting the hypothesis that genome gigantism appears early, before the diversification of the different GV lineages.

Development of electrochemiluminescent inhibition method for determination of gentian violet in aquatic water.

PubMed

Wang, Sui; Hao, Tingting; Yu, Xinwei; Gai, Panpan; Guo, Zhiyong

2012-04-01

Gentian violet (GV) was found to quench the electrochemiluminescence (ECL) of the tris(2,2'-bipyridyl)ruthenium(II)/tris-n-propylamine (Ru(bpy)3(2+)-TPA) system at a glass carbon electrode (GCE). Based on the ECL signal changes, a simple and ultrasensitive detection method for GV in aquatic water was established. Under the optimized conditions, the quenched ECL intensity versus the logarithm of the concentration of GV was linear over a concentration range from 1.0×10(-10) to 5.0×10(-7) mol L(-1), and the limit of detection (LOD) was found to be 4.5×10(-12) mol L(-1) (S/N=3). The results obtained by the ECL system were better than other reported methods in literatures in terms of sensitivity or linear response range. The method was successfully applied to determine GV in aquatic water, and the relative standard deviations (RSDs) were found less than 6.3%, and the recoveries were obtained from 98.7 to 111.0%. Moreover, a possible mechanism of the quenching effect was primarily discussed based on UV-visible absorption spectra, cyclic voltammograms and IECL-E curves. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Measurements of Cosmic-Ray Proton and Helium Spectra from the BESS-Polar Long-Duration Balloon Flights Over Antarctica

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Abe, K.; Fuke, H.; Haino, S.; Hams, T.; Hasegawa, M.; Horikoshi, A.; Itazaki, A.; Kim, K. C.; Kumazawa, T.; Kusumoto, A.;

Lethal graft-versus-host disease in congenital neutropenia caused by p14 deficiency after allogeneic bone marrow transplantation from an HLA-identical sibling.

PubMed

Bohn, Georg; Hardtke-Wolenski, Matthias; Zeidler, Cornelia; Maecker, Britta; Sauer, Martin; Sykora, Karl-Walter; Grigull, Lorenz; Welte, Karl; Klein, Christoph

2008-09-01

The molecular heterogeneity of severe congenital neutropenia (SCN) is increasingly recognized and may influence the risk-benefit assessment of therapeutic strategies. We report on a patient with p14 deficiency who succumbed to severe grade IV graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) after a human leukocyte antigen-identical bone marrow transplantion (BMT) from a sibling donor. Before BMT, in vitro generated p14-deficient dendritic cells showed a markedly elevated tumor necrosis factor (TNF-) alpha production upon toll-like receptor stimulation. We hypothesize that p14 deficiency predisposes to GvHD through increased TNF-alpha production. Adequate genetic testing is needed to prospectively assess potential risk factors for GvHD in defined SCN subgroups. (c) 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

System engineering approach to GPM retrieval algorithms

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

Rose, C. R.; Chandrasekar, V.

2004-01-01

System engineering principles and methods are very useful in large-scale complex systems for developing the engineering requirements from end-user needs. Integrating research into system engineering is a challenging task. The proposed Global Precipitation Mission (GPM) satellite will use a dual-wavelength precipitation radar to measure and map global precipitation with unprecedented accuracy, resolution and areal coverage. The satellite vehicle, precipitation radars, retrieval algorithms, and ground validation (GV) functions are all critical subsystems of the overall GPM system and each contributes to the success of the mission. Errors in the radar measurements and models can adversely affect the retrieved output values. Groundmore » validation (GV) systems are intended to provide timely feedback to the satellite and retrieval algorithms based on measured data. These GV sites will consist of radars and DSD measurement systems and also have intrinsic constraints. One of the retrieval algorithms being studied for use with GPM is the dual-wavelength DSD algorithm that does not use the surface reference technique (SRT). The underlying microphysics of precipitation structures and drop-size distributions (DSDs) dictate the types of models and retrieval algorithms that can be used to estimate precipitation. Many types of dual-wavelength algorithms have been studied. Meneghini (2002) analyzed the performance of single-pass dual-wavelength surface-reference-technique (SRT) based algorithms. Mardiana (2003) demonstrated that a dual-wavelength retrieval algorithm could be successfully used without the use of the SRT. It uses an iterative approach based on measured reflectivities at both wavelengths and complex microphysical models to estimate both No and Do at each range bin. More recently, Liao (2004) proposed a solution to the Do ambiguity problem in rain within the dual-wavelength algorithm and showed a possible melting layer model based on stratified spheres. With the No and Do calculated at each bin, the rain rate can then be calculated based on a suitable rain-rate model. This paper develops a system engineering interface to the retrieval algorithms while remaining cognizant of system engineering issues so that it can be used to bridge the divide between algorithm physics an d overall mission requirements. Additionally, in line with the systems approach, a methodology is developed such that the measurement requirements pass through the retrieval model and other subsystems and manifest themselves as measurement and other system constraints. A systems model has been developed for the retrieval algorithm that can be evaluated through system-analysis tools such as MATLAB/Simulink.« less

Targeting Inflammatory T Helper Cells via Retinoic Acid-Related Orphan Receptor Gamma t Is Ineffective to Prevent Allo-Response-Driven Colitis.

PubMed

Buchele, Vera; Abendroth, Benjamin; Büttner-Herold, Maike; Vogler, Tina; Rothamer, Johanna; Ghimire, Sakhila; Ullrich, Evelyn; Holler, Ernst; Neurath, Markus F; Hildner, Kai

2018-01-01

Intestinal graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) is a life-threatening, inflammatory donor T cell-mediated complication of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). In the light of the reported efficacy of interleukin-23 (IL-23)-blockade to mitigate syngeneic intestinal inflammation in inflammatory bowel disease patients, targeting IL-23 and thereby interleukin-17a (IL-17a) producing T helper (Th17) cells as the T cell subset assumed to be mostly regulated by IL-23, has emerged as a putatively general concept to harness immune-mediated mucosal inflammation irrespective of the underlying trigger. However, the role of Th17 cells during allo-response driven colitis remains ambiguous due to a series of studies with inconclusive results. Interestingly, we recently identified granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF + ) T cells to be promoted by interleukin-7 (IL-7) signaling and controlled by the activating protein-1 transcription factor family member basic leucine zipper transcription factor ATF-like (BATF) as critical mediators of intestinal GvHD in mice. Given the dual role of BATF, the contribution of IL-23-mediated signaling within donor T cells and bona fide Th17 cells remains to be delineated from the regulation of GM-CSF + T cells in the absence of BATF. Here, we found in a complete MHC class I-mismatched model that genetic inactivation of the IL-23 receptor (IL-23R) or the transcription factor retinoic acid-related orphan receptor gamma t (RORγt) within donor T cells similarly ablated Th17 cell formation in vivo but preserved the T cells' ability to induce intestinal GvHD in a compared to wild-type controls indistinguishable manner. Importantly, RORγt-independent manifestation of intestinal GvHD was completely dependent on BATF-regulated GM-CSF + T cells as BATF/RORγt double-deficient T cells failed to induce colitis and the antibody-mediated blockage of IL-7/IL-7R interaction and GM-CSF significantly diminished signs of intestinal GvHD elicited by RORγt-deficient donor T cells. Finally, in analogy to our murine studies, colonic RORC expression levels inversely correlated with the presence of GvHD in allo-HSCT patients. Together, this study provides a crucial example of a BATF-dependent, however, IL-23R signaling- and RORγt-, i.e., Th17 fate-independent regulation of a colitogenic T cell population critically impacting the current understanding of intestinal GvHD.

Novel treatment of severe combined immunodeficiency utilizing ex-vivo T-cell depleted haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and CD45RA+ depleted donor lymphocyte infusions.

PubMed

Brodszki, Nicholas; Turkiewicz, Dominik; Toporski, Jacek; Truedsson, Lennart; Dykes, Josefina

2016-01-15

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is the only curative treatment available for severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID); although, there is a high incidence of severe infections and an increased risk of graft-versus host-disease (GvHD) with HSCT. Early intervention is a crucial prognostic factor and a HLA-haploidentical parental donor is often available. Haploidentical HSCT protocols utilizing extensively ex vivo T-cell depleted grafts (CliniMACs system) have proven efficient in preventing GvHD, but cause a delay in early T-cell recovery that increases the risk of viral infections. Here, we present a novel approach for treating SCID that combines selective depletion of GvHD-inducing alpha/beta (α/β) T-cells from the haploidentical HSCT graft with a subsequent donor lymphocyte infusion (DLI) enriched for CD45RO+ memory T-cells. Our patient was diagnosed with SCID (T-B + NK+ phenotype). At 9 months of age, he received a T cell receptor(TCR)α/β-cell depleted graft from his haploidentical mother, following a reduced intensity conditioning regimen with no additional GvHD prophylaxis. Engraftment was rapid with complete donor chimerism and no signs of GvHD. However, at 12 weeks post HSCT, the patient was still T-cell lymphopenic with clinical symptoms of multiple severe viral infections. Consequently, therapeutic DLIs were initiated for enhanced anti-viral immunity. The patient was treated with CD45RA+ depleted haploidentical maternal donor lymphocytes enriched from unmobilized whole blood, and a total T-cell dose of no more than 25 x10(3) CD3+ cells/kg with >99.9% purity of CD3 + CD45RO+ memory T-cells was transferred. Following the DLI, a prompt increase in CD3 + CD4+ and CD3 + CD8+ counts was observed with a subsequent clearance of viral infections. No acute or chronic GvHD was observed. Automated depletion of CD45RA+ naïve T-cells from unmobilized whole blood is a simple and rapid strategy to provide unmanipulated DLIs, with a potentially broad repertoire of pathogen specific memory T-cells. In the haploidentical setting, CD45RA+ depleted DLIs can be safely administered at low T-cell doses for efficient enhancement of viral immunity and limited risk of GvHD. We demonstrate the successful use of this approach following TCR-α/β-cell depleted HSCT for the treatment of SCID.

75 FR 69666 - Granting of Request for Early Termination of the Waiting Period Under the Premerger Notification...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-11-15

....P. G Technicolor S.A. G Thomson 000. G Grass Valley Spain SA. G Brazil GV Newco. G Thomson Licensing SAS. G Grass Valley Germany GmbH. G Grass Valley Australia PTY Limited. G Grass Valley Singapore PTE Ltd. G Canopus Asia Co. Limited. G Grass Valley Canada, Inc. G US GV Newco (to be formed). G Grass...

Gastric varices and hepatic encephalopathy: treatment with vascular plug and gelatin sponge-assisted retrograde transvenous obliteration--a primary report.

PubMed

Gwon, Dong Il; Ko, Gi-Young; Yoon, Hyun-Ki; Sung, Kyu-Bo; Kim, Jin Hyoung; Shin, Ji Hoon; Ko, Heung Kyu; Song, Ho-Young

2013-07-01

To evaluate technical safety, clinical safety, and effectiveness of vascular plug-assisted retrograde transvenous obliteration (RTO) for treatment of gastric varices (GV) and hepatic encephalopathy (HE). This retrospective study was approved by the institutional review board; written informed consent was waived. From April 2009 to December 2011, 20 patients (13, GV; seven, HE) who had undergone vascular plug-assisted RTO were retrospectively evaluated. After retrograde transvenous placement of a vascular plug in the left adrenal vein or gastrorenal shunt, subsequent gelatin-sponge embolization of both gastrorenal shunt and GV was performed. Follow-up computed tomography (CT) and upper gastrointestinal tract endoscopy were performed; clinical and laboratory data were collected to evaluate primary (technical success, complications, clinical success) and secondary (change of liver function by using the Child-Pugh score, worsening of esophageal varices) end points. Laboratory data before and after vascular plug-assisted RTO were compared (paired-sample t test). Placement of the vascular plug and subsequent gelatin-sponge embolization were technically successful in all 20 patients, with no procedure-related complications. Follow-up CT within 1 week after vascular plug-assisted RTO showed complete thrombosis of GV and gastrorenal shunts in all patients. Clinical symptoms of HE completely resolved in all seven patients with HE; mean serum NH3 level of 127.4 μmol/L ± 58 (standard deviation) before vascular plug-assisted RTO decreased significantly to 28.1 μmol/L ± 9.8 within 1 week after vascular plug-assisted RTO (P = .002). Eighteen patients who underwent follow-up longer than 2 months showed complete obliteration of GV and gastrorenal shunts at CT and endoscopy. There were no cases of variceal bleeding or HE during mean follow-up of 422 days. Improvement in Child-Pugh score was observed in 12 of 18 (67%) patients 1 month after vascular plug-assisted RTO. Worsening of esophageal varices was observed in four (22%) patients at mean follow-up of 9.4 months. Vascular plug-assisted RTO is technically simple and safe and seems to be clinically effective for treatment of GV and HE.

Distinct impacts of sleep-disordered breathing on glycemic variability in patients with and without diabetes mellitus

PubMed Central

Nakata, Kei; Tanno, Masaya; Ohnishi, Hirofumi; Yano, Toshiyuki; Muranaka, Atsuko; Sato, Tatsuya; Oshima, Hiroto; Tatekoshi, Yuki; Mizuno, Masashi; Abe, Koki; Miura, Tetsuji

2017-01-01

Background Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is highly prevalent in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) and heart failure (HF) and contributes to poor cardiovascular outcomes. Enlarged glycemic variability (GV) is a risk factor of cardiac events independently of average blood glucose level, but the influence of SDB on GV is uncertain. In this study, we examined whether the impact of SDB on GV is modified by the presence of DM with or without HF. Methods and results Two hundred three patients (67.5±14.1 [SD] years old, 132 males) who were admitted to our institute for examination or treatment of DM and/or HF underwent continuous glucose monitoring and polysomnography. Both HbA1c (8.0±2.0 vs. 5.7±0.4%) and mean amplitude of glycemic excursion (MAGE, median: 95.5 vs. 63.5 mg/dl) were significantly higher in a DM group (n = 100) than in a non-DM group (n = 103), but apnea-hypopnea index (AHI: 29.0±22.7 vs. 29.3±21.5) was similar in the two groups. AHI was correlated with log MAGE in the non-DM group but not in the DM group, and multivariate regression analysis revealed that AHI was an independent variable for log MAGE in the non-DM group but not in the DM group. We then divided the non-DM patients into two subgroups according to BNP level (100 pg/ml). AHI was positively correlated with log MAGE (r = 0.74, p<0.001) in the non-DM low-BNP subgroup, but such a correlation was not found in the non-DM high-BNP subgroup. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) reduced MAGE from 75.3 to 53.0 mg/dl in the non-DM group but did not reduce MAGE in the DM group. Conclusion Severity of SDB was associated with higher GV, but DM as well as HF diminished the contribution of SDB to GV. Treatment with CPAP was effective for reduction of GV only in patients without DM. PMID:29261679

[Effect of Medicated-catgut Embedding at "Changqiang" (GV 1) on Mechanical Pain Threshold and P 38 MAPK Expression in Spinal Cord Tissue in Anus Incisional Pain Rats].

PubMed

Shu, Tao; Zhang, Shi-Ti; Yan, Feng; Ke, Yu-Pei; Wang, Jun

2017-10-25

To observe the effect of medicated-catgut embedding at "Changqiang"(GV 1) on regional pain reaction and expression of p 38 MAPK in the dorsal horn of spinal cord in anus incisional pain rats, so as to explore its analgesic mechanism. Forty male SD rats were randomly divided into control, model, GV 1-embedding and sham acupoint embedding groups ( n =10 rats in each group). The anus incisional pain model was established by making a radial incision (about 10 mm length) at the left lithotomy position of the anus with a surgical knife, and the mechanical pain threshold (PT) was measured by using a Von Frey before and 4, 8, 12, 24 h after operation. The medicated-catgut (about 12.5 mm length/kg body weight) was implanted in the subcutaneous tissue of GV 1 region. The immunoactivity of p 38 MAPK was determined by immunohistochemistry. Compared with the control group, the mechanical PTs were significantly decreased 4, 8, 12 and 24 h after operation both at the site of incision and about 15 mm proximal to the site of incision in the model group ( P <0.05), and the immunoactivity of phosphorylated (p)-p 38 MAPK in the superficial layer of dorsal horns of lumbar spinal cord was significantly increased(24 h)after operation( P <0.05). Compared with the model group, the PTs were significantly increased 8, 12 and 24 h after operation at the site of incision, and 12 h and 24 h at the site about 15 mm proximal to the incision region ( P <0.05), and the immunoactivity level of p-p 38 MAPK was significantly down-regulated in the GV 1-embedding group ( P <0.05). No significant changes were found in the PT and p-p 38 MAPK immunoactivity levels in the sham acupoint embedding group ( P <0.05). Medicated-catgut embedding at "Changqiang"(GV 1) has an analgesic effect in anus incisional pain model rats, which may be related to its effect in down-regulating the expression of p 38 MAPK in the dorsal horn of lumbar spinal cord.

KINETIC ENERGY DISTRIBUTION OF H(1s) FROM H{sub 2} X {sup 1}{Sigma}{sup +} {sub g}-a {sup 3}{Sigma}{sup +} {sub g} EXCITATION AND LIFETIMES AND TRANSITION PROBABILITIES OF a {sup 3}{Sigma}{sup +} {sub g}(v, J)

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

Liu Xianming; Johnson, Paul V.; Malone, Charles P.

Dissociative excitation of molecular hydrogen plays an important role in the heating of outer planet upper thermospheres. This paper addresses the role of one of the triplet states involved in the process. H{sub 2} excited to the a {sup 3}{Sigma}{sup +} {sub g} state, or higher triplet-ungerade states, is dissociated via the a {sup 3}{Sigma}{sup +} {sub g}-b {sup 3}{Sigma}{sup +} {sub u} continuum. The kinetic energy distribution of H(1s) produced from direct X {sup 1}{Sigma}{sup +} {sub g}-a {sup 3}{Sigma}{sup +} {sub g}(v, J) excitation by electrons is investigated by an accurate theoretical evaluation of spontaneous transition probabilities ofmore » the a {sup 3}{Sigma}{sup +} {sub g}(v, J)-b {sup 3}{Sigma}{sup +} {sub u} continuum transition. It is shown that the X {sup 1}{Sigma}{sup +} {sub g}(0)-a {sup 3}{Sigma}{sup +} {sub g}(v, J) excitation primarily produces H(1s) atoms with kinetic energies lower than 2 eV. In addition to the continuum a {sup 3}{Sigma}{sup +} {sub g}(v, J)-b {sup 3}{Sigma}{sup +} {sub u} transition probabilities, spontaneous emission lifetimes of the a {sup 3}{Sigma}{sup +} {sub g}(v, J) (v = 0-20, J {<=} 14) levels have been calculated by considering both the a {sup 3}{Sigma}{sup +} {sub g}-b {sup 3}{Sigma}{sup +} {sub u} and a {sup 3}{Sigma}{sup +} {sub g}-c {sup 3}{Pi} {sub u} transitions. The calculated lifetimes show a moderately strong rotational dependence, and the lifetimes for the J = 0 rotational level of the low v levels agree well with previous calculations and experimental measurements. Calculations of the a {sup 3}{Sigma}{sup +} {sub g}-b {sup 3}{Sigma}{sup +} {sub u} continuum emission spectra from electron impact X {sup 1}{Sigma}{sup +} {sub g}-a {sup 3}{Sigma}{sup +} {sub g} excitation are included.« less

HLA-inferred extended haplotype disparity level is more relevant than the level of HLA mismatch alone for the patients survival and GvHD in T cell-replate hematopoietic stem cell transplantation from unrelated donor.

PubMed

Nowak, Jacek; Nestorowicz, Klaudia; Graczyk-Pol, Elzbieta; Mika-Witkowska, Renata; Rogatko-Koros, Marta; Jaskula, Emilia; Koscinska, Katarzyna; Madej, Sylwia; Tomaszewska, Agnieszka; Nasilowska-Adamska, Barbara; Szczepinski, Andrzej; Halaburda, Kazimierz; Dybko, Jaroslaw; Kuliczkowski, Kazimierz; Czerw, Tomasz; Giebel, Sebastian; Holowiecki, Jerzy; Baranska, Malgorzata; Pieczonka, Anna; Wachowiak, Jacek; Czyz, Anna; Gil, Lidia; Lojko-Dankowska, Anna; Komarnicki, Mieczyslaw; Bieniaszewska, Maria; Kucharska, Agnieszka; Hellmann, Andrzej; Gronkowska, Anna; Jedrzejczak, Wieslaw W; Markiewicz, Miroslaw; Koclega, Anna; Kyrcz-Krzemien, Slawomira; Mielcarek, Monika; Kalwak, Krzysztof; Styczynski, Jan; Wysocki, Mariusz; Drabko, Katarzyna; Wojcik, Beata; Kowalczyk, Jerzy; Gozdzik, Jolanta; Pawliczak, Daria; Gwozdowicz, Slawomir; Dziopa, Joanna; Szlendak, Urszula; Witkowska, Agnieszka; Zubala, Marta; Gawron, Agnieszka; Warzocha, Krzysztof; Lange, Andrzej

2018-06-01

Serious risks in unrelated hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) including graft versus host disease (GvHD) and mortality are associated with HLA disparity between donor and recipient. The increased risks might be dependent on disparity in not-routinely-tested multiple polymorphisms in genetically dense MHC region, being organized in combinations of two extended MHC haplotypes (Ehp). We assessed the clinical role of donor-recipient Ehp disparity levels in N = 889 patients by the population-based detection of HLA allele phase mismatch. We found increased GvHD incidences and mortality rates with increasing Ehp mismatch level even with the same HLA mismatch level. In multivariate analysis HLA mismatch levels were excluded from models and Ehp disparity level remained independent prognostic factor for high grade acute GvHD (p = 0.000037, HR = 10.68, 95%CI 5.50-32.5) and extended chronic GvHD (p < 0.000001, HR = 15.51, CI95% 5.36-44.8). In group with single HLA mismatch, patients with double Ehp disparity had worse 5-year overall survival (45% vs. 56%, p = 0.00065, HR = 4.05, CI95% 1.69-9.71) and non-relapse mortality (40% vs. 31%, p = 0.00037, HR = 5.63, CI95% 2.04-15.5) than patients with single Ehp disparity. We conclude that Ehp-linked factors contribute to the high morbidity and mortality in recipients given HLA-mismatched unrelated transplant and Ehp matching should be considered in clinical HSCT. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Inc.

No difference in mitochondrial distribution is observed in human oocytes after cryopreservation.

PubMed

Stimpfel, Martin; Vrtacnik-Bokal, Eda; Virant-Klun, Irma

2017-08-01

The primary aim of this study was to determine if any difference in mitochondrial distribution can be observed between fresh and cryopreserved (slow-frozen/thawed and vitrified/warmed) oocytes when oocytes are stained with Mitotracker Red CMXRos and observed under a conventional fluorescent microscope. Additionally, the influence of cryopreservation procedure on the viable rates of oocytes at different maturation stages was evaluated. The germinal vesicle (GV) and MII oocytes were cryopreserved with slow-freezing and vitrification. After thawing/warming, oocytes were stained using Mitotracker Red CMXRos and observed under a conventional fluorescent microscope. Mitotracker staining revealed that in GV oocytes the pattern of mitochondrial distribution appeared as aggregated clusters around the whole oocyte. In mature MII oocytes, three different patterns of mitochondrial distribution were observed; a smooth pattern around the polar body with aggregated clusters at the opposite side of the polar body, a smooth pattern throughout the whole cell, and aggregated clusters as can be seen in GV oocytes. There were no significant differences in the observed patterns between fresh, vitrified/warmed and frozen/thawed oocytes. When comparing the viable rates of oocytes after two different cryopreservation procedures, the results showed no significant differences, although the trend of viable MII oocytes tends to be higher after vitrification/warming and for viable GV oocytes it tends to be higher after slow-freezing/thawing. Mitotracker Red CMXRos staining of mitochondria in oocytes did not reveal differences in mitochondrial distribution between fresh and cryopreserved oocytes at different maturity stages. Additionally, no difference was observed in the viable rates of GV and MII oocytes after slow-freezing/thawing and vitrification/warming.

Study of Glycemic Variability Through Time Series Analyses (Detrended Fluctuation Analysis and Poincaré Plot) in Children and Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes.

PubMed

García Maset, Leonor; González, Lidia Blasco; Furquet, Gonzalo Llop; Suay, Francisco Montes; Marco, Roberto Hernández

2016-11-01

Time series analysis provides information on blood glucose dynamics that is unattainable with conventional glycemic variability (GV) indices. To date, no studies have been published on these parameters in pediatric patients with type 1 diabetes. Our aim is to evaluate the relationship between time series analysis and conventional GV indices, and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels. This is a transversal study of 41 children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes. Glucose monitoring was carried out continuously for 72 h to study the following GV indices: standard deviation (SD) of glucose levels (mg/dL), coefficient of variation (%), interquartile range (IQR; mg/dL), mean amplitude of the largest glycemic excursions (MAGE), and continuous overlapping net glycemic action (CONGA). The time series analysis was conducted by means of detrended fluctuation analysis (DFA) and Poincaré plot. Time series parameters (DFA alpha coefficient and elements of the ellipse of the Poincaré plot) correlated well with the more conventional GV indices. Patients were grouped according to the terciles of these indices, to the terciles of eccentricity (1: 12.56-16.98, 2: 16.99-21.91, 3: 21.92-41.03), and to the value of the DFA alpha coefficient (> or ≤1.5). No differences were observed in the HbA1c of patients grouped by GV index criteria; however, significant differences were found in patients grouped by alpha coefficient and eccentricity, not only in terms of HbA1c, but also in SD glucose, IQR, and CONGA index. The loss of complexity in glycemic homeostasis is accompanied by an increase in variability.

A synthetic eicosanoid LX-mimetic unravels host-donor interactions in allogeneic BMT-induced GvHD to reveal an early protective role for host neutrophils.

PubMed

Devchand, Pallavi R; Schmidt, Birgitta A; Primo, Valeria C; Zhang, Qing-yin; Arnaout, M Amin; Serhan, Charles N; Nikolic, Boris

2005-02-01

Lipoxin A(4) (LXA(4)) and aspirin-triggered 15-epi-LXA(4) are potent endogenous lipid mediators thought to define the inflammatory set-point. We used single prophylactic administrations of a synthetic aspirin-triggered lipoxin A(4) signal mimetic, ATLa, to probe dynamics of early host-donor interactions in a mouse model for the inflammation-associated multifactorial disease of allogeneic bone marrow transplant (BMT) -induced graft-vs.-host disease (GvHD). We first demonstrated that both host and donor are responsive to the ATLa signals. The simple and restricted regimen of a single prophylactic administration of ATLa [100 ng/mL to donor cells or 1 microg (approximately 50 microg/kg) i.v. to host] was sufficient to delay death. Clinical indicators of weight, skin lesions, diarrhea and eye inflammation were monitored. Histological analyses on day 45 post-BMT showed that the degree of cellular trafficking, particularly neutrophil infiltrate, and protection of end-organ target pathology are different, depending on whether the host or donor was treated with ATLa. Taken together, these results chart some ATLa protective effects on GvHD cellular dynamics over time and identify a previously unrecognized effect of host neutrophils in the early phase post-BMT as important determinants in the dynamics of GvHD onset and progression.-Devchand, P. R., Schmidt, B. A., Primo, V. C., Zhang, Q.-y., Arnaout, M. A., Serhan, C. N., Nikolic, B. A synthetic eicosanoid LX-mimetic unravels host-donor interactions in allogeneic BMT-induced GvHD to reveal an early protective role for host neutrophils.

[The role of microRNAs for immunoregulation after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation].

PubMed

Stickel, N; Zeiser, R

2014-08-01

Immunoregulation following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) involves the delicate balance between the desirable graft-versus-leukemia (GvL) effect and the prevention of the undesirable graft-versus-host disease (GvHD). Emerging evidence has shown that microRNAs (miRNAs) play a role in the pathogenesis of different inflammatory and malignant diseases. Especially in autoimmune diseases, allergy and GvHD numerous dysregulated miRNAs have been identified. In this review, we provide an overview of current knowledge about the role of miRNAs in the immunoregulation after allo-HSCT. Moreover, we give an outlook on potential new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, including the use of miRNAs as clinical biomarkers and the manipulation of immune responses using miRNA mimetics. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

RaD-X: Complementary measurements of dose rates at aviation altitudes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meier, Matthias M.; Matthiä, Daniel; Forkert, Tomas; Wirtz, Michael; Scheibinger, Markus; Hübel, Robert; Mertens, Christopher J.

2016-09-01

The RaD-X stratospheric balloon flight organized by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration was launched from Fort Sumner on 25 September 2015 and carried several instruments to measure the radiation field in the upper atmosphere at the average vertical cutoff rigidity Rc of 4.1 GV. The German Aerospace Center (Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt) in cooperation with Lufthansa German Airlines supported this campaign with an independent measuring flight at the altitudes of civil aviation on a round trip from Germany to Japan. The goal was to measure dose rates under similar space weather conditions over an area on the Northern Hemisphere opposite to the RaD-X flight. Dose rates were measured in the target areas, i.e., around vertical cutoff rigidity Rc of 4.1 GV, at two flight altitudes for about 1 h at each position with acceptable counting statistics. The analysis of the space weather situation during the flights shows that measuring data were acquired under stable and moderate space weather conditions with a virtually undisturbed magnetosphere. The measured rates of absorbed dose in silicon and ambient dose equivalent complement the data recorded during the balloon flight. The combined measurements provide a set of experimental data suitable for validating and improving numerical models for the calculation of radiation exposure at aviation altitudes.

Strategy Choice in Solving Arithmetic Word Problems: Are There Differences between Students with Learning Disabilities, G-V Poor Performance, and Typical Achievement Students?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gonzalez, Juan E. Jimenez; Espinel, Ana Isabel Garcia

2002-01-01

A study was designed to test whether there are differences between Spanish children (ages 7-9) with arithmetic learning disabilities (n=60), garden-variety (G-V) poor performance (n=44), and typical children (n=44) in strategy choice when solving arithmetic word problems. No significant differences were found between children with dyscalculia and…

Late Pleistocene age and archaeological context for the hominin calvaria from GvJm-22 (Lukenya Hill, Kenya)

PubMed Central

Tryon, Christian A.; Crevecoeur, Isabelle; Faith, J. Tyler; Ekshtain, Ravid; Nivens, Joelle; Patterson, David; Mbua, Emma N.; Spoor, Fred

2015-01-01

Kenya National Museums Lukenya Hill Hominid 1 (KNM-LH 1) is a Homo sapiens partial calvaria from site GvJm-22 at Lukenya Hill, Kenya, associated with Later Stone Age (LSA) archaeological deposits. KNM-LH 1 is securely dated to the Late Pleistocene, and samples a time and region important for understanding the origins of modern human diversity. A revised chronology based on 26 accelerator mass spectrometry radiocarbon dates on ostrich eggshells indicates an age range of 23,576–22,887 y B.P. for KNM-LH 1, confirming prior attribution to the Last Glacial Maximum. Additional dates extend the maximum age for archaeological deposits at GvJm-22 to >46,000 y B.P. (>46 kya). These dates are consistent with new analyses identifying both Middle Stone Age and LSA lithic technologies at the site, making GvJm-22 a rare eastern African record of major human behavioral shifts during the Late Pleistocene. Comparative morphometric analyses of the KNM-LH 1 cranium document the temporal and spatial complexity of early modern human morphological variability. Features of cranial shape distinguish KNM-LH 1 and other Middle and Late Pleistocene African fossils from crania of recent Africans and samples from Holocene LSA and European Upper Paleolithic sites. PMID:25730861

The Complete Sequence of the First Spodoptera frugiperda Betabaculovirus Genome: A Natural Multiple Recombinant Virus

PubMed Central

Cuartas, Paola E.; Barrera, Gloria P.; Belaich, Mariano N.; Barreto, Emiliano; Ghiringhelli, Pablo D.; Villamizar, Laura F.

2015-01-01

Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is a major pest in maize crops in Colombia, and affects several regions in America. A granulovirus isolated from S. frugiperda (SfGV VG008) has potential as an enhancer of insecticidal activity of previously described nucleopolyhedrovirus from the same insect species (SfMNPV). The SfGV VG008 genome was sequenced and analyzed showing circular double stranded DNA of 140,913 bp encoding 146 putative ORFs that include 37 Baculoviridae core genes, 88 shared with betabaculoviruses, two shared only with betabaculoviruses from Noctuide insects, two shared with alphabaculoviruses, three copies of own genes (paralogs) and the other 14 corresponding to unique genes without representation in the other baculovirus species. Particularly, the genome encodes for important virulence factors such as 4 chitinases and 2 enhancins. The sequence analysis revealed the existence of eight homologous regions (hrs) and also suggests processes of gene acquisition by horizontal transfer including the SfGV VG008 ORFs 046/047 (paralogs), 059, 089 and 099. The bioinformatics evidence indicates that the genome donors of mentioned genes could be alpha- and/or betabaculovirus species. The previous reported ability of SfGV VG008 to naturally co-infect the same host with other virus show a possible mechanism to capture genes and thus improve its fitness. PMID:25609309

Radiation protocols determine acute graft-versus-host disease incidence after allogeneic bone marrow transplantation in murine models.

PubMed

Schwarte, Sebastian; Bremer, Michael; Fruehauf, Joerg; Sorge, Yanina; Skubich, Susanne; Hoffmann, Matthias W

2007-09-01

Effects of radiation sources used for total body irradiation (TBI) on Graft-versus-Host Disease (GvHD) induction were examined. In a T cell receptor (TCR) transgenic mouse model, single fraction TBI was performed with different radiation devices ((60)Cobalt; (137)Cesium; 6 MV linear accelerator), dose rates (0.85; 1.5; 2.9; 5 Gy/min) and total doses before allogeneic bone marrow transplantation (BMT). Recipients were observed for 120 days. Different tissues were examined histologically. Acute GvHD was induced by a dose rate of 0.85 Gy/min ((60)Cobalt) and a total dose of 9 Gy and injection of 5 x 10(5) lymph node cells plus 5 x 10(6) bone marrow cells. Similar results were obtained using 6 MV linear accelerator- (linac-) photons with a dose rate of 1.5 Gy/min and 0.85 Gy/min, a total dose of 9.5 Gy and injection of same cell numbers. TBI with (137)Cesium (dose rate: 2.5 Gy/min) did not lead reproducibly to lethal acute GvHD. Experimental TBI in murine models may induce different immunological responses, depending on total energy, total single dose and dose rate. GvHD might also be induced by TBI with low dose rates.

Cavitation on a scaled-down model of a Francis turbine guide vane: high-speed imaging and PIV measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pervunin, K. S.; Timoshevskiy, M. V.; Churkin, S. A.; Kravtsova, A. Yu; Markovich, D. M.; Hanjalić, K.

2015-12-01

Cavitation on two symmetric foils, a NACA0015 hydrofoil and a scaled-down model of a Francis turbine guide vane (GV), was investigated by high-speed visualization and PIV. At small attack angles the differences between the profiles of the mean and fluctuating velocities for both hydrofoils were shown to be insignificant. However, at the higher angle of incidence, flow separation from the GV surface was discovered for quasi-steady regimes including cavitation-free and cavitation inception cases. The flow separation leads to the appearance of a second maximum in velocity fluctuations distributions downstream far from the GV surface. When the transition to unsteady regimes occurred, the velocity distributions became quite similar for both foils. Additionally, for the GV an unsteady regime characterized by asymmetric spanwise variations of the sheet cavity length along with alternating periodic detachments of clouds between the sidewalls of the test channel was for the first time visualized. This asymmetric behaviour is very likely to be governed by the cross instability that was recently described by Decaix and Goncalvès [8]. Moreover, it was concluded that the existence of the cross instability is independent on the test body shape and its aspect ratio.

[Regular pattern of pain reaction by pressing along the Governor Vessel on the back in patients with digestive system disease].

PubMed

Yang, Guang-Yin; Xu, Jin-Sen; Wu, Zu-Xing

2012-02-01

To find out the regular pattern of pain reaction by pressing along the Governor Vessel at the levels of T3 to L4 on the back in patients with digestive system disease, so as to provide references for diagnosis of the disease. Thirty patients diagnosed with digestive system disease by gastroscopy and colonoscopy as well as 16 patients with digestive symptoms without accurate diagnosis by endoscopy checks were observed. Pressing was applied from Zhiyang (GV 9) to Yaoyangguan (GV 3), including non-acupoints along the Governor Vessel. Positive reaction was recognized since pain, soreness or distension sensation appeared in the space between the spinous process. The positive ratios of 30 patients with endoscopy checks and 16 without the check accounted for 100.0%. The tender spots, usually 5 to 9 in number, were mainly focused on the relative acupoints and non-acupoints along the Governor Vessel from T6 to T10. The pain reaction from Lingtai (GV 10) to Zhongshu (GV 7), which are at the level of T6 to T10, along the Governor Vessel is closely related with digestive system disease. And it can be regarded as function criterion of the digestive system and important reference of auxiliary diagnosis.

The complete sequence of the first Spodoptera frugiperda Betabaculovirus genome: a natural multiple recombinant virus.

PubMed

Cuartas, Paola E; Barrera, Gloria P; Belaich, Mariano N; Barreto, Emiliano; Ghiringhelli, Pablo D; Villamizar, Laura F

2015-01-20

Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is a major pest in maize crops in Colombia, and affects several regions in America. A granulovirus isolated from S. frugiperda (SfGV VG008) has potential as an enhancer of insecticidal activity of previously described nucleopolyhedrovirus from the same insect species (SfMNPV). The SfGV VG008 genome was sequenced and analyzed showing circular double stranded DNA of 140,913 bp encoding 146 putative ORFs that include 37 Baculoviridae core genes, 88 shared with betabaculoviruses, two shared only with betabaculoviruses from Noctuide insects, two shared with alphabaculoviruses, three copies of own genes (paralogs) and the other 14 corresponding to unique genes without representation in the other baculovirus species. Particularly, the genome encodes for important virulence factors such as 4 chitinases and 2 enhancins. The sequence analysis revealed the existence of eight homologous regions (hrs) and also suggests processes of gene acquisition by horizontal transfer including the SfGV VG008 ORFs 046/047 (paralogs), 059, 089 and 099. The bioinformatics evidence indicates that the genome donors of mentioned genes could be alpha- and/or betabaculovirus species. The previous reported ability of SfGV VG008 to naturally co-infect the same host with other virus show a possible mechanism to capture genes and thus improve its fitness.

OLYMPEX: A Global Precipitation Mission (GPM) Ground Validation Campaign on the Olympic Peninsula in the Pacific Northwest

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McMurdie, L. A.; Houze, R.; Lundquist, J. D.; Mass, C.; Petersen, W. A.; Schwaller, M.

2014-12-01

The Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) Mission was successfully launched at 1837 UTC 27 February 2014 with the first space-borne Ku/Ka band Dual Frequency Precipitation Radar and a passive microwave radiometer (channels ranging from 10-183 GHz). The primary objective of the Core satellite is to measure rain and snow globally, determine its 3D structure, and act as the calibration satellite for a constellation of GPM passive microwave satellites. In order to assess how remotely sensed precipitation can be applied to a range of data applications, ground validation (GV) field campaigns are crucial. As such, the Olympic Mountains Experiment (OLYMPEX) is planned for November 2015 - February 2016. The Olympic Peninsula in Washington State is an ideal location to conduct a GV campaign. It is situated within an active mid-latitude winter storm track and receives among the highest annual precipitation amounts in North America. In one compact area, the Olympic peninsula ranges from ocean to coast to land to mountains. It contains a permanent snowfield and numerous associated river basins. This unique venue will enable the field campaign to monitor both upstream precipitation characteristics and processes over the ocean and their modification over complex terrain. The scientific goals of the OLYMPEX field campaign include physical validation of satellite algorithms, precipitation mechanisms in complex terrain, hydrological applications, and modeling studies. In order to address these goals, a wide variety of existing and new observations are planned. These include surface observing networks of meteorological stations, rain and snow gauges, surface microphysical measurements, and snowpack surveys. Several radars will be deployed including the NASA S-Band dual-polarimetric and NASA Dual-Frequency Dual-Polarimetric Doppler radars, the Canadian x-band radar, and other mobile radars. Several instrumented aircraft are likely to participate such as the NASA DC-8 and the University of North Dakota Citation. The aircraft measurements will determine upstream thermodynamic and moisture conditions, sample particle types and sizes, and act as a proxy for the satellite itself. The ground-based measurements will test how well the satellite proxy measurements determine the rain and snow over complex terrain.

Application of Copper Indium Gallium Diselenide Photovoltaic Cells to Extend the Endurance and Capabilities of the Raven RQ-11B Unmanned Aerial Vehicle

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-09-01

POWER POINT TRACKER A more suitable component used in photovoltaic appli- cations is the Maximum Power Point Tracker ( MPPT ). An MPPT ... MPPT / power converter (Solar Charge Controller ) weighed 6.5-Oz, but without the casing it weighed only 3.6-Oz. We preferred to use it without the...for this test was the GV-4 Low Power Charge Controller from GENASUN used in previous the- sis work [5]. This MPPT was programmed to charge up

Radio constraints on the mass-loss rate of the Type Ia SN 2018gv

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ryder, S. D.; Lundqvist, P.; Perez-Torres, M. A.; Kundu, E.; Kool, E. C.; Bjornsson, C.-I.; Fransson, C.

2018-01-01

The young Type Ia SN 2018gv (ATel #11175, #11177) in the galaxy NGC 2525 has been observed with the Australia Telescope Compact Array (ATCA) at 5.5 and 9.0 GHz on 2018 Jan 18.6 UT. No radio emission was detected at the reported location, to a 3-sigma upper limit of 120 microJy/beam (5.5 GHz) and 30 microJy/beam (9.0 GHz).

Intravenous apoptotic cell infusion as a cell-based therapy toward improving hematopoietic cell transplantation outcome.

PubMed

Saas, Philippe; Gaugler, Béatrice; Perruche, Sylvain

2010-10-01

Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (AHCT) is an efficient therapy for different malignant and nonmalignant hematological diseases. However, the use of this therapeutic approach is still limited by some severe toxic side effects, mainly graft-versus-host disease (GvHD). Today, the risk of fatal GvHD restrains the wider application of AHCT to many patients in need of an effective therapy for their high-risk hematologic malignancies. Thus, new strategies, including cell-based therapy approaches, are required. We propose to use intravenous donor apoptotic leukocyte infusion to improve AHCT outcome. In experimental AHCT models, we demonstrated that intravenous apoptotic leukocyte infusion, simultaneously with allogeneic bone marrow grafts, favors hematopoietic engraftment, prevents allo-immunization, and delays acute GvHD onset. Here, we review the different mechanisms and the potential beneficial effects associated with the immunomodulatory properties of apoptotic cells in the AHCT setting. © 2010 New York Academy of Sciences.

Ultra-flat wideband single-pump Raman-enhanced parametric amplification.

PubMed

Gordienko, V; Stephens, M F C; El-Taher, A E; Doran, N J

2017-03-06

We experimentally optimize a single pump fiber optical parametric amplifier in terms of gain spectral bandwidth and gain variation (GV). We find that optimal performance is achieved with the pump tuned to the zero-dispersion wavelength of dispersion stable highly nonlinear fiber (HNLF). We demonstrate further improvement of parametric gain bandwidth and GV by decreasing the HNLF length. We discover that Raman and parametric gain spectra produced by the same pump may be merged together to enhance overall gain bandwidth, while keeping GV low. Consequently, we report an ultra-flat gain of 9.6 ± 0.5 dB over a range of 111 nm (12.8 THz) on one side of the pump. Additionally, we demonstrate amplification of a 60 Gbit/s QPSK signal tuned over a portion of the available bandwidth with OSNR penalty less than 1 dB for Q² below 14 dB.

Medical and Endoscopic Management of Gastric Varices

PubMed Central

Al-Osaimi, Abdullah M. S.; Caldwell, Stephen H.

2011-01-01

In the past 20 years, our understanding of the pathophysiology and management options among patients with gastric varices (GV) has changed significantly. GV are the most common cause of upper gastrointestinal bleeding in patients with portal hypertension after esophageal varices (EV) and generally have more severe bleeding than EV. In the United States, the majority of GV patients have underlying portal hypertension rather than splenic vein thrombosis. The widely used classifications are the Sarin Endoscopic Classification and the Japanese Vascular Classifications. The former is based on the endoscopic appearance and location of the varices, while the Japanese classification is based on the underlying vascular anatomy. In this article, the authors address the current concepts of classification, epidemiology, pathophysiology, and emerging management options of gastric varices. They describe the stepwise approach to patients with gastric varices, including the different available modalities, and the pearls, pitfalls, and stop-gap measures useful in managing patients with gastric variceal bleed. PMID:22942544

Effect of holding equine oocytes in meiosis inhibitor-free medium before in vitro maturation and of holding temperature on meiotic suppression and mitochondrial energy/redox potential.

PubMed

Martino, Nicola A; Dell'Aquila, Maria E; Filioli Uranio, Manuel; Rutigliano, Lucia; Nicassio, Michele; Lacalandra, Giovanni M; Hinrichs, Katrin

2014-10-11

Evaluation of mitochondrial function offers an alternative to evaluate embryo development for assessment of oocyte viability, but little information is available on the relationship between mitochondrial and chromatin status in equine oocytes. We evaluated these parameters in immature equine oocytes either fixed immediately (IMM) or held overnight in an Earle's/Hank's' M199-based medium in the absence of meiotic inhibitors (EH treatment), and in mature oocytes. We hypothesized that EH holding may affect mitochondrial function and that holding temperature may affect the efficiency of meiotic suppression. Experiment 1 - Equine oocytes processed immediately or held in EH at uncontrolled temperature (22 to 27°C) were evaluated for initial chromatin configuration, in vitro maturation (IVM) rates and mitochondrial energy/redox potential. Experiment 2 - We then investigated the effect of holding temperature (25°C, 30°C, 38°C) on initial chromatin status of held oocytes, and subsequently repeated mitochondrial energy/redox assessment of oocytes held at 25°C vs. immediately-evaluated controls. EH holding at uncontrolled temperature was associated with advancement of germinal vesicle (GV) chromatin condensation and with meiotic resumption, as well as a lower maturation rate after IVM. Holding did not have a significant effect on mitochondrial distribution within chromatin configurations. Independent of treatment, oocytes having condensed chromatin had a significantly higher proportion of perinuclear/pericortical mitochondrial distribution than did other GV configurations. Holding did not detrimentally affect oocyte energy/redox parameters in viable GV-stage oocytes. There were no significant differences in chromatin configuration between oocytes held at 25°C and controls, whereas holding at higher temperature was associated with meiosis resumption and loss of oocytes having the condensed chromatin GV configuration. Holding at 25°C was not associated with progression of mitochondrial distribution pattern and there were no significant differences in oocyte energy/redox parameters between these oocytes and controls. Mitochondrial distribution in equine GV-stage oocytes is correlated with chromatin configuration within the GV. Progression of chromatin configuration and mitochondrial status during holding are dependent on temperature. EH holding at 25°C maintains meiotic arrest, viability and mitochondrial potential of equine oocytes. This is the first report on the effects of EH treatment on oocyte mitochondrial energy/redox potential.

Multiple-year nitrous oxide emissions from a greenhouse vegetable field in China: Effects of nitrogen management.

PubMed

Zhang, Jing; Li, Hu; Wang, Yingchun; Deng, Jia; Wang, Ligang

2018-03-01

The greenhouse vegetable (GV) field is an important agricultural system in China. It may also be a hot spot of nitrous oxide (N 2 O) emissions. However, knowledge on N 2 O emission from GV fields and its mitigation are limited due to considerable variations of N 2 O emissions. In this study, we performed a multi-year experiment at a GV field in Beijing, China, using the static opaque chamber method, to quantify N 2 O emissions from GV fields and evaluated N 2 O mitigation efficiency of alternative nitrogen (N) managements. The experiment period spanned three rotation periods and included seven vegetable growing seasons. We measured N 2 O emissions under four treatments, including no N fertilizer use (CK), farmers' conventional fertilizer application (FP), reduced N fertilizer rate (R), and R combined with the nitrification inhibitor "dicyandiamide (DCD)" (R+DCD). The seasonal cumulative N 2 O emissions ranged between 2.09 and 19.66, 1.13 and 11.33, 0.94 and 9.46, and 0.15 and 3.27kgNha -1 for FP, R, R+DCD, and CK, respectively. The cumulative N 2 O emissions of three rotational periods varied from 18.71 to 26.58 (FP), 9.58 to 15.96 (R), 7.11 to 13.42 (R+DCD), and 1.66 to 3.73kgNha -1 (CK). The R and R+DCD treatments significantly (P<0.05) reduced the N 2 O emissions under FP by 38.1% to 48.8% and 49.5% to 62.0%, across the three rotational periods, although their mitigation efficiencies were highly variable among different vegetable seasons. This study suggests that GV fields associated with intensive N application and frequent flooding irrigation may substantially contribute to the N 2 O emissions and great N 2 O mitigations can be achieved through reasonably reducing the N-fertilizer rate and/or applying a nitrification inhibitor. The large variations in the N 2 O emission and mitigation across different vegetable growing seasons and rotational periods stress the necessity of multi-year observations for reliably quantifying and mitigating N 2 O emissions for GV systems. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The proton and helium rigidity spectra from 10 to 50 GV

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Badhwar, G. D.; Cleghorn, T.; Lacy, J. L.; Zipse, J. E.; Daniel, R. R.; Golden, R. L.; Stephens, S. A.

1978-01-01

A magnet spectrometer flown from Palestine, Texas, (September 15, 1976) has produced measurements on 150,000 protons and 20,000 helium nuclei covering the rigidity range 10-50 GV. In this interval, the proton spectrum has been fitted to a power law with a spectral index of 2.51 + or - 0.03. Similarly, the helium-nuclei rigidity spectrum can be represented as a power law with an index of 2.61 + or - 0.03.

Comparison of normal and abnormal fertilization of in vitro-matured human oocyte according to insemination method.

PubMed

Park, Ju Hee; Jee, Byung Chul; Kim, Seok Hyun

2016-04-01

Our purpose was to compare the normal fertilization rate, multi-pronuclei (PN) formation rate, and embryonic development of in vitro-matured oocytes between conventional insemination and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). A total of 213 stimulated in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles were selected, in which at least one immature oocyte was obtained (from 2010 to 2014). Immature oocytes were assigned to germinal vesicle (GV)-stage or metaphase I (MI)-stage oocyte groups. Cycles with obligatory ICSI due to male-factor infertility were excluded. Cycles were divided into two groups according to fertilization method: there were 97 cycles with conventional insemination and 116 cycles with ICSI. After in vitro maturation of 324 GV-stage oocytes and 341 MI-stage oocytes, the fertilization rate, multi-PN formation rate, and embryonic development were compared according to the fertilization method. The normal fertilization rate was similar in the conventional insemination and the ICSI both in GV-derived and MI-derived oocytes. Both fertilization methods resulted in a similar multi-PN formation rate in GV-derived oocytes; however, in MI-derived oocytes, the multi-PN formation rate was zero with ICSI and this was significantly lower than that with conventional insemination (9.6%, P = 0.001). In non-male-factor infertility, ICSI should be considered when MI oocytes are matured. © 2016 Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Single-Organ Gallbladder Vasculitis

PubMed Central

Hernández-Rodríguez, José; Tan, Carmela D.; Rodríguez, E. René; Hoffman, Gary S.

2014-01-01

Abstract Systemic vasculitis (SV) involving abdominal structures usually has a poor prognosis. Gallbladder vasculitis (GV) has been reported as part of SV (GB-SV) and focal single-organ vasculitis (GB-SOV). We analyzed clinical and histologic characteristics of patients with GV to identify features that differentiate GB-SOV from the systemic forms of GV. To identify affected patients with GV we used pathology databases from our institution and an English-language PubMed search. Clinical manifestations, laboratory and histologic features, treatment administered, and outcomes were recorded. Patients were divided in 2 groups, GB-SOV and GB-SV. As in previous studies of single-organ vasculitis, GB-SOV was only considered to be a sustainable diagnosis if disease beyond the gallbladder was not apparent after a follow-up period of at least 6 months. Sixty-one well-characterized patients with GV were included (6 from our institution). There was no significant sex bias (32 female patients, 29 male). Median age was 52 years (range, 18–94 yr). GB-SOV was found in 20 (33%) and GB-SV in 41 (67%) patients. No differences were observed in age, sex frequency, or duration of gallbladder symptoms between groups. Past episodes of recurrent right-upper quadrant or abdominal pain and lithiasic cholecystitis were more frequent in GB-SOV patients, whereas acalculous cholecystitis occurred more often in GB-SV. In GB-SV, gallbladder-related symptoms occurred more often concomitantly with or after the systemic features, but they sometimes appeared before SV was fully developed (13.5%). Constitutional and musculoskeletal symptoms were reported only in GB-SV patients. Compared to GB-SOV, GB-SV patients presented more often with fever (62.5% vs 20%; p = 0.003) and exhibited higher erythrocyte sedimentation rate levels (80 ± 28 vs 37 ± 25 mm/h, respectively; p = 0.006). All GB-SV patients required glucocorticoids and 50% of them also received cytotoxic agents. Mortality in GB-SV was higher than in GB-SOV (35.5% vs 10%; p = 0.05). Nongranulomatous inflammation with fibrinoid necrosis of medium-sized vessels occurred equally in both groups (>90%). Forms of SV affecting the gallbladder included polyarteritis nodosa (n = 10), hepatitis B virus-associated vasculitis (n = 8), cryoglobulinemic (essential or hepatitis C virus-associated) vasculitis (n = 6), vasculitis associated with autoimmune diseases (n = 6), microscopic polyangiitis (n = 4), eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Churg-Strauss) (n = 4), IgA vasculitis (Henoch-Schönlein) (n = 2), and giant cell arteritis (n = 1). GV is uncommon. Its histology most often consists of a nongranulomatous necrotizing vasculitis affecting medium-sized vessels. GB-SOV is usually discovered after routine cholecystectomy performed because of the presence of local symptoms, gallstone-associated cholecystitis, and contrary to GB-SV, GB-SOV is usually not associated with systemic symptoms. Acute phase reactants and surrogate markers of autoimmunity are usually normal or negative in GB-SOV. GB-SOV does not require systemic antiinflammatory or immunosuppressive therapy; surgery is adequate to achieve cure. GB-SV always warrants immunosuppressant therapy and is associated with high mortality. The finding of GV may precede the generalized manifestations of SV. Therefore, once GV is discovered, studies to determine disease extent and a vigilant follow-up are mandatory. PMID:25500710

[Analysis of the Localization of Fibrillarin and Sites of Pre-rRNA Synthesis in the Nucleolus-Like Bodies of Mouse GV Oocytes after Mild Treatment with Proteinase K].

PubMed

Shishova, K V; Khodarovich, Yu M; Lavrentyeva, E A; Zatsepina, O V

2015-01-01

Postnatal development of mammalian oocytes is accompanied by functional and structural remodeling of the nucleolar apparatus: the final stage of this process is the formation of large objects (up to 10 μm in diameter) termed nucleolus-like bodies (NLBs) in preovulatory GV oocytes. N LB material was shown to be essential for early embryonic development, but its composition is still uncharacterized. In the present study, the protein-binding dye fluorescein-5-isothiocyanate (FITC) was used to show that proteins characterized by a high local concentration are essential NLB components in mouse GV oocytes. One of these proteins was able to be identified for the first time using a mild treatment of oocytes with proteinase K; the protein identified was fibrillarin, a factor of early pre-rRNA processing. Fibrillarin is present in the inner NLB mass of all oocytes capable of synthesizing rRNA; however, it is not colocalized with BrUTP microinjected into oocytes in order to identify transcribed ribosomal genes, in contrast to the "surface" fibrillarin. These observations imply the accumulation of nucleolar proteins not involved in ribosome biogenesis inside the NLB. All NLBs present in an individual nucleus of an NSN-type GV oocyte contain fibrillarin and are associated with active ribosomal genes. The results obtained in the present work demonstrate that proteinase K treatment of GV mouse oocytes allows for: (1) identification of "cryptic" proteins inside the densely packed NLB material and (2) the enhancement of oocyte image quality during BrUTP-based identification of rRNA synthesis sites but (3) not for the detection of active ribosomal genes in the inner mass of the NLB. The fluorescent dye FITC can be recommended for assessment of intracellular protein localization in the oocytes of all mammalian species.

Proteome and phosphoproteome analysis of honeybee (Apis mellifera) venom collected from electrical stimulation and manual extraction of the venom gland

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Honeybee venom is a complicated defensive toxin that has a wide range of pharmacologically active compounds. Some of these compounds are useful for human therapeutics. There are two major forms of honeybee venom used in pharmacological applications: manually (or reservoir disrupting) extracted glandular venom (GV), and venom extracted through the use of electrical stimulation (ESV). A proteome comparison of these two venom forms and an understanding of the phosphorylation status of ESV, are still very limited. Here, the proteomes of GV and ESV were compared using both gel-based and gel-free proteomics approaches and the phosphoproteome of ESV was determined through the use of TiO2 enrichment. Results Of the 43 proteins identified in GV, < 40% were venom toxins, and > 60% of the proteins were non-toxic proteins resulting from contamination by gland tissue damage during extraction and bee death. Of the 17 proteins identified in ESV, 14 proteins (>80%) were venom toxic proteins and most of them were found in higher abundance than in GV. Moreover, two novel proteins (dehydrogenase/reductase SDR family member 11-like and histone H2B.3-like) and three novel phosphorylation sites (icarapin (S43), phospholipase A-2 (T145), and apamin (T23)) were identified. Conclusions Our data demonstrate that venom extracted manually is different from venom extracted using ESV, and these differences may be important in their use as pharmacological agents. ESV may be more efficient than GV as a potential pharmacological source because of its higher venom protein content, production efficiency, and without the need to kill honeybee. The three newly identified phosphorylated venom proteins in ESV may elicit a different immune response through the specific recognition of antigenic determinants. The two novel venom proteins extend our proteome coverage of honeybee venom. PMID:24199871

OLYMPEX: A Ground Validation Campaign on the Olympic Peninsula in the Pacific Northwest

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McMurdie, L. A.; Houze, R.; Lettenmaier, D. P.; Lundquist, J. D.; Petersen, W. A.; Schwaller, M.

2013-12-01

The Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) Mission is scheduled for launch in early 2014. It's primary objective is to measure rain and snow globally especially in areas lacking surface observations or ground-based radar coverage. The GPM satellites will need to be able to detect solid and liquid precipitation over a wide range of intensities, locations and regimes. The core satellite of GPM will carry a passive microwave radiometer, the GPM Microwave Imager (GMI) and the first space-borne Ku/Ka band Dual Frequency Precipitation Radar (DPR). To satisfy the GPM measurement requirements and to assess how remotely sensed precipitation can be applied to a range of data applications (e.g. determining storm structures and monitoring flooding events and droughts) ground validation (GV) field campaigns are vital. As such, the Olympic Mountains GV Experiment (OLYMPEX) is planned for November 2015 - February 2016. The Olympic Peninsula is an ideal location to conduct a GV campaign. It is situated in the northwest corner of Washington State within an active mid-latitude winter storm track. It receives among the highest annual precipitation amounts in North America ranging from over 2500 mm on the coast to 4000 mm in the mountainous interior. In one compact area, the Olympic peninsula ranges from ocean to coast to land to mountains. This unique venue will enable the field campaign to monitor both upstream precipitation characteristics and processes over the ocean and their modification over complex terrain. Measuring precipitation from space in coastal and mountainous regions is challenging; however, the unique characteristics of the Olympic Peninsula make OLYMPEX a unique and viable opportunity to address these challenges and quantify the sources of variability and uncertainty in coastal and complex terrain. The scientific goals of the OLYMPEX field campaign include physical validation of satellite algorithms, precipitation processes in complex terrain, hydrological applications and modeling studies. In order to address these goals, a wide variety of existing and new observations and instrumentation is planned. These include an in situ surface observing networks of meteorological stations, rain and snow gauges, surface microphysical measurements and snowpack surveys. Surface-based remote instrumentation will include the existing coastal radar at Langley, WA, the NOAA/ESRL Atmospheric River Observatory at Westport, WA, and planned additional radars such as the NASA N-Pol S-Band dual-polarimetric and NASA Dual-Frequency Dual-Polarimetric Doppler (D3R) scanning radars for PPI and RHI scanning over the west slopes of the Olympics, and other mobile vertically-pointing radars. Several instrumented aircraft are likely to participate. The NASA DC-8 will be equipped with a Ka-Ku band dual-frequency radar and passive microwave sensors that simulate those on the GPM Core satellite. The University of North Dakota Citation will measure in situ microphysics. The aircraft measurements will determine upstream thermodynamic and moisture conditions, sample particle types and sizes for comparison with those employed in the satellite algorithm, and act as a proxy for the satellite itself. The ground-based measurements will test how well the satellite proxy measurements determine the rain and snow over complex terrain.

Observations of ultraheavy cosmic ray particles at 10 GV cutoff rigidity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yanagimachi, T.; Hisano, K.; Ito, K.; Kobayashi, S.; Doke, T.; Hamasaki, R.; Hayashi, T.; Yakenaka, T.; Nagata, K.

1985-01-01

Ultraheavy cosmic ray particles with Z 45 and Fe were observed in two balloon flights at a mean geomagnetic cutoff rigidity of 10 GV. Fluxes of these particles at the top of the atmosphere are presented. A ratio of (Z 45)/(Fe) is compared with other experimental results. The ratio decreases with increasing energy in the energy range from 1 to 10 GeV/amu. A possibility is presented to explain the variation of the ratio with energy.

Absolute rigidity spectrum of protons and helium nuclei above 10 GV/c

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Golden, R. L.; Horan, S.; Kimbell, B.; Badhwar, G. D.; Lacy, J. L.; Zipse, J. E.; Daniel, R. R.; Stephens, S. A.

1985-01-01

Proton and helium nuclei differential spectra were gathered with a balloon borne magnet spectrometer. The data were fitted to the assumption that the differential flux can be represented by a power law in rigidity. In the rigidity range 10 to 25 GV/c the spectral indices were found to be -(2.74 plus or minus 0.04) for protons and -(2.71 plus or minus 0.05) for helium nuclei. A brief discussion is given by systematic errors.

A phase Ib study of pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy in patients with advanced cancer (PembroPlus).

PubMed

Weiss, Glen J; Waypa, Jordan; Blaydorn, Lisa; Coats, Jessica; McGahey, Kayla; Sangal, Ashish; Niu, Jiaxin; Lynch, Cynthia A; Farley, John H; Khemka, Vivek

2017-06-27

Pembrolizumab (P) is an anti-PD-1 antibody that blocks the interaction between programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) on T-cells and PD-L1 and PD-L2 on tumour cells. A phase Ib trial of P plus chemotherapy was undertaken to evaluate the safety and efficacy. Patients with advanced, metastatic solid tumours were enrolled onto one of six treatment arms. Pembrolizumab was given: with gemcitabine (G), G+docetaxel (D), G+nab-paclitaxel (NP), G+vinorelbine (V) or irinotecan (I) until progression or toxicity, or with liposomal doxorubicin (LD) for up to 15 cycles, progression or toxicity. Safety monitoring and response assessments were conducted. Forty-nine patients were enrolled and treated. The most common adverse events were transaminitis, cytopenias, rash, diarrhoea, fatigue, nausea and vomiting. Arm 2 was closed due to poor accrual. The recommended phase II dose (RP2D) was determined for Arms 1, 3a, 4, 5 and 6. There were eight partial responses across multiple tumour types. Standard dose P can be safely combined with G, G+NP, G+V, I and LD. Efficacy was observed in multiple tumour types and evaluation to determine if response and duration of response are more robust than what would be expected for chemotherapy or immunotherapy alone requires further validation.

Adsorption studies of methylene blue and gentian violet on sugarcane bagasse modified with EDTA dianhydride (EDTAD) in aqueous solutions: kinetic and equilibrium aspects.

PubMed

Gusmão, Karla Aparecida Guimarães; Gurgel, Leandro Vinícius Alves; Melo, Tânia Márcia Sacramento; Gil, Laurent Frédéric

2013-03-30

In this study the adsorption of cationic dyes by modified sugarcane bagasse with EDTA dianhydride (EB) was examined using methylene blue (MB) and gentian violet (GV) as model compounds in aqueous single solutions. The synthesized adsorbent (EB) was characterized by FTIR, elemental analysis, and BET. The capacity of EB to adsorb dyes was evaluated at different contact times, pH values, and initial dye concentrations. According to the obtained results, the adsorption processes could be described by a pseudo-second-order kinetic model. The adsorption isotherms were well fitted by the Langmuir model. Maximum adsorption capacities for MB and GV on EB were found to be 202.43 and 327.83 mg/g, respectively. The free energy change during adsorption of MB and GV was found to be -22.50 and -24.21 kJ/mol, respectively, suggesting that chemisorption is the main mechanism controlling the adsorption process. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Apples to committee consensus: the challenge of gender identity classification.

PubMed

Rettew, David C

2012-01-01

The debate surrounding the inclusion of gender dysphoria/gender variant behavior (GD/GV) as a psychiatric diagnosis exposes many of the fundamental shortcomings and inconsistencies of our current diagnostic classification system. Proposals raised by the authors of this special issue, including basing diagnosis on cause rather than overt behavior, reclassifying GD/GV behavior as a physical rather than mental condition, and basing diagnosis on impairment or distress, offer some solutions but have limitations themselves given the available database. In contrast to most accepted psychiatric conditions where emphasis is placed on ultimately changing internal thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, consensus treatment for most GD/GV individuals, at least from adolescence onward, focuses on modifying the external body and external environment to maximize positive outcomes. This series of articles illustrating the diversity of opinions on when and if gender incongruence should be considered pathological reflects the relative lack of scientific indicators of disease in this area, similar to many other domains of mental functioning.

Irradiation-induced fusion between giant vesicles and photoresponsive large unilamellar vesicles containing malachite green derivative.

PubMed

Uda, Ryoko M; Yoshikawa, Yuki; Kitaba, Moe; Nishimoto, Noriko

2018-07-01

Light-initiated fusion between vesicles has attracted much attention in the research community. In particular, fusion between photoresponsive and non-photoresponsive vesicles has been of much interest in the development of systems for the delivery of therapeutic agents to cells. We have performed fusion between giant vesicles (GVs) and photoresponsive smaller vesicles containing malachite green (MG) derivative, which undergoes ionization to afford a positive charge on the molecule by irradiation. The fusion proceeds as the concentration of GV lipid increases toward equimolarity with the lipid of the smaller vesicle. It is also dependent on the molar percentage of photoionized MG in the lipid of the smaller vesicle. On the other hand, the fusion is hardly affected by the anionic component of the GV. The photoinduced fusion was characterized by two methods, involving the mixing of lipid membranes and of aqueous contents. Fluorescence microscopy revealed that irradiation triggered the fusion of a single GV with the smaller vesicles containing MG. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Spectra of variations and cosmic ray anisotropy during GLE of June 11, 1991

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kravtsova, Marina; Sdobnov, Valeriy

2015-03-01

We have studied variation spectra and cosmic-ray (CR) anisotropy, using the ground-based and satellite observations of the CR intensity on the worldwide network of stations during the ground level enhancement (GLE) of June 11, 1991. The spectrographic global survey has been used. Variation spectra of primary CRs at different moments of the event are presented. Note that the CR variation spectra during this period are not described by a power or an exponential function of particle rigidity. The maximum rigidity, up to which the protons were accelerated on June 11, 1991, was ~2.8 GV (06:00 UT; i.e., two hours after GLE started). We show relative variations in the CR intensity in the geocentric solar ecliptic coordinate system during certain periods of the event under study. On June 11, 1991, the bidirectional anisotropy dominated in the distribution of particles with rigidity of 4 GV and 10 GV, which implies that the Earth passed the loop-like IMF structure.

Precision Measurement of the Boron to Carbon Flux Ratio in Cosmic Rays from 1.9 GV to 2.6 TV with the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer on the International Space Station

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aguilar, M.; Ali Cavasonza, L.; Ambrosi, G.; Arruda, L.; Attig, N.; Aupetit, S.; Azzarello, P.; Bachlechner, A.; Barao, F.; Barrau, A.; Barrin, L.; Bartoloni, A.; Basara, L.; Başeǧmez-du Pree, S.; Battarbee, M.; Battiston, R.; Becker, U.; Behlmann, M.; Beischer, B.; Berdugo, J.; Bertucci, B.; Bindel, K. F.; Bindi, V.; Boella, G.; de Boer, W.; Bollweg, K.; Bonnivard, V.; Borgia, B.; Boschini, M. J.; Bourquin, M.; Bueno, E. F.; Burger, J.; Cadoux, F.; Cai, X. D.; Capell, M.; Caroff, S.; Casaus, J.; Castellini, G.; Cervelli, F.; Chae, M. J.; Chang, Y. H.; Chen, A. I.; Chen, G. M.; Chen, H. S.; Cheng, L.; Chou, H. Y.; Choumilov, E.; Choutko, V.; Chung, C. H.; Clark, C.; Clavero, R.; Coignet, G.; Consolandi, C.; Contin, A.; Corti, C.; Creus, W.; Crispoltoni, M.; Cui, Z.; Dai, Y. M.; Delgado, C.; Della Torre, S.; Demakov, O.; Demirköz, M. B.; Derome, L.; Di Falco, S.; Dimiccoli, F.; Díaz, C.; von Doetinchem, P.; Dong, F.; Donnini, F.; Duranti, M.; D'Urso, D.; Egorov, A.; Eline, A.; Eronen, T.; Feng, J.; Fiandrini, E.; Finch, E.; Fisher, P.; Formato, V.; Galaktionov, Y.; Gallucci, G.; García, B.; García-López, R. J.; Gargiulo, C.; Gast, H.; Gebauer, I.; Gervasi, M.; Ghelfi, A.; Giovacchini, F.; Goglov, P.; Gómez-Coral, D. M.; Gong, J.; Goy, C.; Grabski, V.; Grandi, D.; Graziani, M.; Guo, K. H.; Haino, S.; Han, K. C.; He, Z. H.; Heil, M.; Hoffman, J.; Hsieh, T. H.; Huang, H.; Huang, Z. C.; Huh, C.; Incagli, M.; Ionica, M.; Jang, W. Y.; Jinchi, H.; Kang, S. C.; Kanishev, K.; Kim, G. N.; Kim, K. S.; Kirn, Th.; Konak, C.; Kounina, O.; Kounine, A.; Koutsenko, V.; Krafczyk, M. S.; La Vacca, G.; Laudi, E.; Laurenti, G.; Lazzizzera, I.; Lebedev, A.; Lee, H. T.; Lee, S. C.; Leluc, C.; Li, H. S.; Li, J. Q.; Li, J. Q.; Li, Q.; Li, T. X.; Li, W.; Li, Y.; Li, Z. H.; Li, Z. Y.; Lim, S.; Lin, C. H.; Lipari, P.; Lippert, T.; Liu, D.; Liu, Hu; Lordello, V. D.; Lu, S. Q.; Lu, Y. S.; Luebelsmeyer, K.; Luo, F.; Luo, J. Z.; Lv, S. S.; Machate, F.; Majka, R.; Mañá, C.; Marín, J.; Martin, T.; Martínez, G.; Masi, N.; Maurin, D.; Menchaca-Rocha, A.; Meng, Q.; Mikuni, V. M.; Mo, D. C.; Morescalchi, L.; Mott, P.; Nelson, T.; Ni, J. Q.; Nikonov, N.; Nozzoli, F.; Oliva, A.; Orcinha, M.; Palmonari, F.; Palomares, C.; Paniccia, M.; Pauluzzi, M.; Pensotti, S.; Pereira, R.; Picot-Clemente, N.; Pilo, F.; Pizzolotto, C.; Plyaskin, V.; Pohl, M.; Poireau, V.; Putze, A.; Quadrani, L.; Qi, X. M.; Qin, X.; Qu, Z. Y.; Räihä, T.; Rancoita, P. G.; Rapin, D.; Ricol, J. S.; Rosier-Lees, S.; Rozhkov, A.; Rozza, D.; Sagdeev, R.; Sandweiss, J.; Saouter, P.; Schael, S.; Schmidt, S. M.; Schulz von Dratzig, A.; Schwering, G.; Seo, E. S.; Shan, B. S.; Shi, J. Y.; Siedenburg, T.; Son, D.; Song, J. W.; Sun, W. H.; Tacconi, M.; Tang, X. W.; Tang, Z. C.; Tao, L.; Tescaro, D.; Ting, Samuel C. C.; Ting, S. M.; Tomassetti, N.; Torsti, J.; Türkoǧlu, C.; Urban, T.; Vagelli, V.; Valente, E.; Vannini, C.; Valtonen, E.; Vázquez Acosta, M.; Vecchi, M.; Velasco, M.; Vialle, J. P.; Vitale, V.; Vitillo, S.; Wang, L. Q.; Wang, N. H.; Wang, Q. L.; Wang, X.; Wang, X. Q.; Wang, Z. X.; Wei, C. C.; Weng, Z. L.; Whitman, K.; Wienkenhöver, J.; Wu, H.; Wu, X.; Xia, X.; Xiong, R. Q.; Xu, W.; Yan, Q.; Yang, J.; Yang, M.; Yang, Y.; Yi, H.; Yu, Y. J.; Yu, Z. Q.; Zeissler, S.; Zhang, C.; Zhang, J.; Zhang, J. H.; Zhang, S. D.; Zhang, S. W.; Zhang, Z.; Zheng, Z. M.; Zhu, Z. Q.; Zhuang, H. L.; Zhukov, V.; Zichichi, A.; Zimmermann, N.; Zuccon, P.; AMS Collaboration

2016-12-01

Knowledge of the rigidity dependence of the boron to carbon flux ratio (B/C) is important in understanding the propagation of cosmic rays. The precise measurement of the B /C ratio from 1.9 GV to 2.6 TV, based on 2.3 million boron and 8.3 million carbon nuclei collected by AMS during the first 5 years of operation, is presented. The detailed variation with rigidity of the B /C spectral index is reported for the first time. The B /C ratio does not show any significant structures in contrast to many cosmic ray models that require such structures at high rigidities. Remarkably, above 65 GV, the B /C ratio is well described by a single power law RΔ with index Δ =-0.333 ±0.014 (fit ) ±0.005 (syst ) , in good agreement with the Kolmogorov theory of turbulence which predicts Δ =-1 /3 asymptotically.

Training Program in the Molecular Basis of Breast Cancer Research

DTIC Science & Technology

2000-08-01

BRCA1 protein and the product was purified by electrophoresis on a 15% polyacryl - interact with the importin-a subunit of the nuclear transport signal...40 mM potassium phos- the 2.0-kb DNA fragment containing the complete ORF of scHEC] was inserted phate [pH 6.5] containing 0.5 M MgC12 and 4...with a mM potassium HEPES [pH 7.7], 0.1 M KCI, 10% glycerol, 2 mM MgC12, 5 mM number of proteins important for GV/M progression and chro- EGTA), 0.5 ml

Acute Organoaxial gastric volvulus: A massive problem with a twist-case report.

PubMed

Al Daoud, Fadi; Daswani, Gul Sachwani; Perinjelil, Vinu; Nigam, Tina

2017-01-01

Gastric volvulus (GV) is a rare and life threatening condition if not treated promptly or wrongly diagnosed. The main complication of gastric volvulus is foregut obstruction. The extreme rotation can cut off blood supply to the stomach and even distal organs, which can lead to ischemia and necrosis of the affected area. We report a case of a 41yo female that complained of severe abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting for approximately 3days after eating a large meal. The patient didn't have any flatus or bowel movements in the last 24h. CT of the abdomen and pelvis showed a dilatation of the stomach and esophageal hernia. Laparotomy confirmed an organoaxial volvulus at the level of the antrum and body of the stomach. Gastropexy was implemented and the stomach fixed to the posterior abdominal wall to prevent recurrence. GV may have a significant related morbidity and mortality rate. It can be missed easily on diagnosis. The presence of vomiting not responding to initial antiemetic treatment, as well as, the presence of a hiatal hernia on the imaging studies should trigger our thinking of gastric volvulus, regardless of the stable appearance of the patient. Chronic GV can manifests as atypical chest, abdomen and gastro intestinal symptoms. We recommend that everyone with these atypical symptoms seek medical attention to rule out GV. Early diagnosis and treatment will reduce the risk of developing chronic gastric volvulus to acute gastric volvulus. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Effect of acupuncture anesthesia on acne vulgaris of pricking-bloodletting cupping: a single-blind randomized clinical trail.

PubMed

Xu, Jianfeng; Lin, Ruizhu; Wang, Jing; Wu, Yongli; Wang, Yingxu; Zhang, Yuequan; Xi, Chaolei; Wu, Qiang

2013-12-01

To evaluate the effect on acne vulgaris of pricking-bloodletting cupping at Dazhui (GV 14) under acupuncture anesthesia, and establish whether providing anesthesia to the treatment area by manipulating Hegu (LI 4) and Quchi (LI 11) might have an additional therapeutic benefit. Thirty-eight patients were recruited and randomized into a control group and an intervention group with a single-blind (observer-blind) method. The control group was treated by pricking-bloodletting cupping at Dazhui (GV 14)-and the studied group by pricking-bloodletting cupping at Dazhui (GV 14) under acupuncture anesthesia at Hegu (LI 4) and Quchi (LI 11). Both groups were treated twice weekly for 6 weeks. The analgesic and therapeutic effects of acupuncture were evaluated on a visual analog scale (VAS) and global acne grading system (GAGS), respectively. There were differences in the VAS scores of pain on pricking and in the pricked area, and the duration of pain between the groups. After 12 treatments, there was a significant reduction in GAGS scores from baseline in both groups, but there was no significant difference between the groups. Acupuncture anesthesia at Hegu (LI 4) and Quchi (LI 11) is an effective means of alleviating the pain of pricking-bloodletting cupping and reducing the duration of pain in the treatment area. Pricking-bloodletting cupping at Dazhui (GV 14) improves the skin lesions of patients with moderate acne vulgaris, but acupuncture anesthesia does not appear to have an additional therapeutic effect.

Self-perception in a clinical sample of gender variant children.

PubMed

Rijn, Anouk Balleur-van; Steensma, Thomas D; Kreukels, Baudewijntje P C; Cohen-Kettenis, Peggy T

2013-07-01

Gender variance (GV) in childhood has a negative impact on the self-concept of children in the general population and can lead to mental health problems and even suicidal ideation in adulthood. This study explored the self-concept of clinically referred gender variant children and examined potential risk factors. The Self-Perception Profile for Children was administered to 147 children, who were referred to a gender identity clinic. Their parents completed the Child Behaviour Checklist and the Gender Identity Questionnaire to assess the degree of GV. The referred children were at risk of developing a negative self-concept; more specifically gender variant girls had low scores on 'global self-worth', 'physical appearance' and 'behavioural conduct' compared to Dutch norms for girls. Gender variant boys had low scores on 'global self-worth', 'scholastic competence', 'athletic competence' and 'physical appearance' compared to Dutch norms for boys. Within the group of referred children, sex differences, but no age effects, were found. The referred girls felt more competent than the referred boys on 'athletic competence' and 'scholastic functioning'. For both boys and girls poor peer relations had a significant negative relationship with self-concept and more GV was related to a lower global self-worth. Clinically referred gender variant children seemed vulnerable to developing a negative self-concept. Poor peer relations and extreme GV might be mediating variables. Interventions might focus on enhancing acceptance of the environment and improving social skills of gender variant children.

Performance analysis of a new hypersonic vitrector system.

PubMed

Stanga, Paulo Eduardo; Pastor-Idoate, Salvador; Zambrano, Isaac; Carlin, Paul; McLeod, David

2017-01-01

To evaluate porcine vitreous flow and water flow rates in a new prototype hypersonic vitrectomy system compared to currently available pneumatic guillotine vitrectors (GVs) systems. Two vitrectors were tested, a prototype, ultrasound-powered, hypersonic vitrector (HV) and a GV. Porcine vitreous was obtained within 12 to 24 h of sacrifice and kept at 4°C. A vial of vitreous or water was placed on a precision balance and its weight measured before and after the use of each vitrector. Test parameters included changes in aspiration levels, vitrector gauge, cut rates for GVs, % ultrasound (US) power for HVs, and port size for HVs. Data was analysed using linear regression and t-tests. There was no difference in the total average mean water flow between the 25-gauge GV and the 25-gauge HV (t-test: P = 0.363); however, 25-gauge GV was superior (t-test: P < 0.001) in vitreous flow. The 23-gauge GV was only more efficient in water and vitreous removal than 23-gauge HV needle-1 (Port 0.0055) (t-test: P < 0.001). For HV, wall thickness and gauge had no effect on flow rates. Water and vitreous flows showed a direct correlation with increasing aspiration levels and % US power (p<0.05). The HV produced consistent water and vitreous flow rates across the range of US power and aspiration levels tested. Hypersonic vitrectomy may be a promising new alternative to the currently available guillotine-based technologies.

Vibrational spectra from atomic fluctuations in dynamics simulations. II. Solvent-induced frequency fluctuations at femtosecond time resolution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schmitz, Matthias; Tavan, Paul

2004-12-01

The midinfrared (MIR) spectra of molecules in polar solvents exhibit inhomogeneously broadened bands whose spectral positions are shifted as compared to the gas phase. The shifts are caused by interactions with structured solvation shells and the broadenings by fluctuations of these interactions. The MIR spectra can be calculated from hybrid molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, which treat the solute molecule by density functional theory and the solvent by molecular mechanics by the so-called instantaneous normal mode analysis (INMA) or by Fourier transforming the time correlation function (FTTCF) of the molecular dipole moment. In Paper I of this work [M. Schmitz and P. Tavan, J. Chem. Phys. 121, 12233 (2004)] we explored an alternative method based on generalized virial (GV) frequencies noting, however, that GV systematically underestimates frequencies. As shown by us these artifacts are caused by solvent-induced fluctuations of the (i) equilibrium geometry, (ii) force constants, and (iii) normal mode directions as well as by (iv) diagonal and (v) off-diagonal anharmonicities. Here we now show, by analyzing the time scales of fluctuations and sample MD trajectories of formaldehyde in the gas phase and in water, that all these sources of computational artifacts can be made visible by a Fourier analysis of the normal coordinates. Correspondingly, the error sources (i) and (iii)-(v) can be removed by bandpass filtering, as long as the spectral signatures of the respective effects are well separated from the fundamental band. Furthermore, the artifacts arising from effect (ii) can be strongly diminished by a time-resolved version of the GV approach (TF-GV). The TF-GV method then yields for each mode j a trajectory of the vibrational frequency ωj(t|τ) at a time resolution τ>τj, which is only limited by the corresponding oscillation time τj=2π/ωj and, thus, is in the femtosecond range. A correlation analysis of these trajectories clearly separates the librational motions from the conformational dynamics of the solvation shells and yields the inhomogeneously broadened MIR spectra, if the theory of motional narrowing is properly included. The MIR spectrum of formaldehyde in solution obtained by TF-GV agrees very well with the FTTCF result, if one applies the so-called "harmonic approximation" quantum correction factor and a temperature scaling to the FTTCF intensities. Also for INMA an excellent agreement is achieved if one disregards a slight INMA overestimate of linewidths.

Solar Proton Events from a 180 Year Depth Profile of Nitrate Concentrations from the Central Greenland Ice Sheet

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-11-01

chambers responding primarily to the muon component which for solar cosmic rays represents a threshold of 4-5 GV. Four GLEs were reported between 1942...record the cosmic ray intensity above - 1 GV which is a considerably lower threshold than the threshold of a muon detector. There have been 50 ground...Glaciology Antarctic Panel for two days in Washington, D.C. 3) G. Dreschhoff presented a paper at the 23rd Cosmic Ray Conference in Calgary (see Appendix B

Precision Measurement of the Proton Flux in Primary Cosmic Rays from Rigidity 1 GV to 1.8 TV with the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer on the International Space Station

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aguilar, M.; Aisa, D.; Alpat, B.; Alvino, A.; Ambrosi, G.; Andeen, K.; Arruda, L.; Attig, N.; Azzarello, P.; Bachlechner, A.; Barao, F.; Barrau, A.; Barrin, L.; Bartoloni, A.; Basara, L.; Battarbee, M.; Battiston, R.; Bazo, J.; Becker, U.; Behlmann, M.; Beischer, B.; Berdugo, J.; Bertucci, B.; Bigongiari, G.; Bindi, V.; Bizzaglia, S.; Bizzarri, M.; Boella, G.; de Boer, W.; Bollweg, K.; Bonnivard, V.; Borgia, B.; Borsini, S.; Boschini, M. J.; Bourquin, M.; Burger, J.; Cadoux, F.; Cai, X. D.; Capell, M.; Caroff, S.; Casaus, J.; Cascioli, V.; Castellini, G.; Cernuda, I.; Cerreta, D.; Cervelli, F.; Chae, M. J.; Chang, Y. H.; Chen, A. I.; Chen, H.; Cheng, G. M.; Chen, H. S.; Cheng, L.; Chou, H. Y.; Choumilov, E.; Choutko, V.; Chung, C. H.; Clark, C.; Clavero, R.; Coignet, G.; Consolandi, C.; Contin, A.; Corti, C.; Gil, E. Cortina; Coste, B.; Creus, W.; Crispoltoni, M.; Cui, Z.; Dai, Y. M.; Delgado, C.; Della Torre, S.; Demirköz, M. B.; Derome, L.; Di Falco, S.; Di Masso, L.; Dimiccoli, F.; Díaz, C.; von Doetinchem, P.; Donnini, F.; Du, W. J.; Duranti, M.; D'Urso, D.; Eline, A.; Eppling, F. J.; Eronen, T.; Fan, Y. Y.; Farnesini, L.; Feng, J.; Fiandrini, E.; Fiasson, A.; Finch, E.; Fisher, P.; Galaktionov, Y.; Gallucci, G.; García, B.; García-López, R.; Gargiulo, C.; Gast, H.; Gebauer, I.; Gervasi, M.; Ghelfi, A.; Gillard, W.; Giovacchini, F.; Goglov, P.; Gong, J.; Goy, C.; Grabski, V.; Grandi, D.; Graziani, M.; Guandalini, C.; Guerri, I.; Guo, K. H.; Haas, D.; Habiby, M.; Haino, S.; Han, K. C.; He, Z. H.; Heil, M.; Hoffman, J.; Hsieh, T. H.; Huang, Z. C.; Huh, C.; Incagli, M.; Ionica, M.; Jang, W. Y.; Jinchi, H.; Kanishev, K.; Kim, G. N.; Kim, K. S.; Kirn, Th.; Kossakowski, R.; Kounina, O.; Kounine, A.; Koutsenko, V.; Krafczyk, M. S.; La Vacca, G.; Laudi, E.; Laurenti, G.; Lazzizzera, I.; Lebedev, A.; Lee, H. T.; Lee, S. C.; Leluc, C.; Levi, G.; Li, H. L.; Li, J. Q.; Li, Q.; Li, Q.; Li, T. X.; Li, W.; Li, Y.; Li, Z. H.; Li, Z. Y.; Lim, S.; Lin, C. H.; Lipari, P.; Lippert, T.; Liu, D.; Liu, H.; Lolli, M.; Lomtadze, T.; Lu, M. J.; Lu, S. Q.; Lu, Y. S.; Luebelsmeyer, K.; Luo, J. Z.; Lv, S. S.; Majka, R.; Mañá, C.; Marín, J.; Martin, T.; Martínez, G.; Masi, N.; Maurin, D.; Menchaca-Rocha, A.; Meng, Q.; Mo, D. C.; Morescalchi, L.; Mott, P.; Müller, M.; Ni, J. Q.; Nikonov, N.; Nozzoli, F.; Nunes, P.; Obermeier, A.; Oliva, A.; Orcinha, M.; Palmonari, F.; Palomares, C.; Paniccia, M.; Papi, A.; Pauluzzi, M.; Pedreschi, E.; Pensotti, S.; Pereira, R.; Picot-Clemente, N.; Pilo, F.; Piluso, A.; Pizzolotto, C.; Plyaskin, V.; Pohl, M.; Poireau, V.; Postaci, E.; Putze, A.; Quadrani, L.; Qi, X. M.; Qin, X.; Qu, Z. Y.; Räihä, T.; Rancoita, P. G.; Rapin, D.; Ricol, J. S.; Rodríguez, I.; Rosier-Lees, S.; Rozhkov, A.; Rozza, D.; Sagdeev, R.; Sandweiss, J.; Saouter, P.; Sbarra, C.; Schael, S.; Schmidt, S. M.; von Dratzig, A. Schulz; Schwering, G.; Scolieri, G.; Seo, E. S.; Shan, B. S.; Shan, Y. H.; Shi, J. Y.; Shi, X. Y.; Shi, Y. M.; Siedenburg, T.; Son, D.; Spada, F.; Spinella, F.; Sun, W.; Sun, W. H.; Tacconi, M.; Tang, C. P.; Tang, X. W.; Tang, Z. C.; Tao, L.; Tescaro, D.; Ting, Samuel C. C.; Ting, S. M.; Tomassetti, N.; Torsti, J.; Türkoǧlu, C.; Urban, T.; Vagelli, V.; Valente, E.; Vannini, C.; Valtonen, E.; Vaurynovich, S.; Vecchi, M.; Velasco, M.; Vialle, J. P.; Vitale, V.; Vitillo, S.; Wang, L. Q.; Wang, N. H.; Wang, Q. L.; Wang, R. S.; Wang, X.; Wang, Z. X.; Weng, Z. L.; Whitman, K.; Wienkenhöver, J.; Wu, H.; Wu, X.; Xia, X.; Xie, M.; Xie, S.; Xiong, R. Q.; Xin, G. M.; Xu, N. S.; Xu, W.; Yan, Q.; Yang, J.; Yang, M.; Ye, Q. H.; Yi, H.; Yu, Y. J.; Yu, Z. Q.; Zeissler, S.; Zhang, J. H.; Zhang, M. T.; Zhang, X. B.; Zhang, Z.; Zheng, Z. M.; Zhuang, H. L.; Zhukov, V.; Zichichi, A.; Zimmermann, N.; Zuccon, P.; Zurbach, C.; AMS Collaboration

2015-05-01

A precise measurement of the proton flux in primary cosmic rays with rigidity (momentum/charge) from 1 GV to 1.8 TV is presented based on 300 million events. Knowledge of the rigidity dependence of the proton flux is important in understanding the origin, acceleration, and propagation of cosmic rays. We present the detailed variation with rigidity of the flux spectral index for the first time. The spectral index progressively hardens at high rigidities.

dParFit: A computer program for fitting diatomic molecule spectral data to parameterized level energy expressions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Le Roy, Robert J.

2017-01-01

This paper describes FORTRAN program dParFit, which performs least-squares fits of diatomic molecule spectroscopic data involving one or more electronic states and one or more isotopologues, to parameterized expressions for the level energies. The data may consist of any combination of microwave, infrared or electronic vibrotational bands, fluorescence series or binding energies (from photo-association spectroscopy). The level energies for each electronic state may be described by one of: (i) band constants {Gv ,Bv ,Dv , … } for each vibrational level, (ii) generalized Dunham expansions, (iii) pure near-dissociation expansions (NDEs), (iv) mixed Dunham/NDE expressions, or (v) individual term values for each distinct level of each isotopologue. Different representations may be used for different electronic states and/or for different types of constants in a given fit (e.g., Gv and Bv may be represented one way and centrifugal distortion constants another). The effect of Λ-doubling or 2Σ splittings may be represented either by band constants (qvB or γvB, qvD or γvD, etc.) for each vibrational level of each isotopologue, or by using power series expansions in (v + 1/2) to represent those constants. Fits to Dunham or NDE expressions automatically incorporate normal first-order semiclassical mass scaling to allow combined analyses of multi-isotopologue data. In addition, dParFit may fit to determine atomic-mass-dependent terms required to account for breakdown of the Born-Oppenheimer and first-order semiclassical approximations. In any of these types of fits, one or more subsets of these parameters for one or more of the electronic states may be held fixed, while a limited parameter set is varied. The program can also use a set of read-in constants to make predictions and calculate deviations [ycalc -yobs ] for any chosen input data set, or to generate predictions of arbitrary data sets.

Social preferences for health states associated with acute myeloid leukemia for patients undergoing treatment in the United Kingdom.

PubMed

Castejón, Nacho; Cappelleri, Joseph C; Cuervo, Jesús; Lang, Kathryn; Mehta, Priyanka; Mokgokong, Ruth; Mamolo, Carla

2018-04-18

Health state (HS) utility values for patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), a hematological malignancy, are not available in the United Kingdom (UK). This study aims to develop clinically sound HSs for previously untreated patients with AML and to assign utility values based on preferences of the general UK population. This study was conducted in the UK and comprised 2 stages. During the first stage, AML HSs were drafted based on evidence from a literature review of AML clinical and health-related quality-of-life studies (published January 2000-June 2016) and patient-reported outcome measures previously used in this population. A panel of UK hematologists with AML experience validated the clinical relevance and accuracy of the HSs. During the second stage, validated HSs were valued in an elicitation survey with a representative UK population sample using the time trade-off (TTO) method. Descriptive statistics and bivariate tests were obtained and performed. A total of eight HSs were developed and clinically validated, including treatment with chemotherapy, consolidation therapy, transplant, graft-vs-host disease (GvHD), remission, relapse, refractory, and functionally cured. In total, 125 adults participated (mean age, 49.6 years [range, 18-87 years], 52.8% female). Mean (95% confidence interval [CI]) TTO preference values (n = 120), ranked from lowest (worst HS) to highest (best HS) were as follows: refractory - 0.11 (- 0.21 to - 0.01), relapse 0.10 (0.00-0.20), transplant 0.28 (0.20-0.37), treatment with chemotherapy 0.36 (0.28-0.43), GvHD 0.43 (0.36-0.50), consolidation 0.46 (0.40-0.53), remission 0.62 (0.57-0.67), and functionally cured 0.76 (0.72-0.79). Mean (95% CI) visual analog scale preference values followed the same rank order, ranging from 0.15 (0.13-0.17) for refractory to 0.71 (0.68-0.73) for functionally cured. To our knowledge, this is the first study to report utility values for AML from the UK societal perspective. Participants were able to distinguish differences in severity among AML HSs, and preference values were consistent with clinical perception of HS severity. HS preference values observed in this study may be useful in future evaluations of treatment benefit, including cost-effectiveness analyses and improved patient well-being.

Cardiovascular Autonomic Neuropathy and Glucose Variability in Patients With Type 1 Diabetes: Is There an Association?

PubMed

Nyiraty, Szabolcs; Pesei, Fruzsina; Orosz, Andrea; Coluzzi, Sara; Vági, Orsolya Eszter; Lengyel, Csaba; Ábrahám, György; Frontoni, Simona; Kempler, Peter; Várkonyi, Tamás

2018-01-01

The oxidative stress associated with glucose variability might be responsible for neuronal damage while autonomic neuropathy (AN) has a detrimental effect on metabolism. The aim of the study was to find relationship between AN and GV in type 1 diabetic patients and to identify further factors that affect GV. Twenty type 1 diabetic patients were involved (age: 39.5 ± 3.4 years, duration of diabetes: 17.5 ± 2.5 years; HbA1c: 8.1 ± 0.2%, mean ± SE). AN was assessed by the cardiovascular reflex tests. The interstitial glucose levels were determined following insertion of a subcutaneous electrode during the continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) method on six consecutive days. GV was characterized by calculation of four parameters. SD of interstitial glucose values correlated positively with the overall AN score and the degree of the orthostatic reduction of systolic blood pressure (AN-score-SD ρ = 0.47, p  < 0.05; orthostasis-SD: ρ = 0.51, p  < 0.05). Mean absolute glucose (MAG) correlated with three parameters of AN (AN-score-MAG: ρ = 0.62, p  < 0.01; 30/15 ratio-MAG: ρ = -0.50, p  < 0.05; orthostasis-MAG: ρ = 0.59, p  < 0.01). The HbA1c also correlated with two parameters of GV (HbA1c-continuous overlapping net glycemic action: ρ = 0.56, p  < 0.05; HbA1c-MAG: ρ = 0.45, p  < 0.05). The frequency of hypoglycemia did not exhibit any correlation with measures of GV. Severity of glucose variability but not overall glucose load correlates with both parasympathetic and sympathetic dysfunctions in type 1 diabetes. Higher HbA1c is associated with more severe glucose variability. The observed correlation between increased glucose variability and the severity of AN necessitates the further exploration of this relationship.

Evaluation of Optimal Formulas for Gravitational Tensors up to Gravitational Curvatures of a Tesseroid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deng, Xiao-Le; Shen, Wen-Bin

2018-01-01

The forward modeling of the topographic effects of the gravitational parameters in the gravity field is a fundamental topic in geodesy and geophysics. Since the gravitational effects, including for instance the gravitational potential (GP), the gravity vector (GV) and the gravity gradient tensor (GGT), of the topographic (or isostatic) mass reduction have been expanded by adding the gravitational curvatures (GC) in geoscience, it is crucial to find efficient numerical approaches to evaluate these effects. In this paper, the GC formulas of a tesseroid in Cartesian integral kernels are derived in 3D/2D forms. Three generally used numerical approaches for computing the topographic effects (e.g., GP, GV, GGT, GC) of a tesseroid are studied, including the Taylor Series Expansion (TSE), Gauss-Legendre Quadrature (GLQ) and Newton-Cotes Quadrature (NCQ) approaches. Numerical investigations show that the GC formulas in Cartesian integral kernels are more efficient if compared to the previously given GC formulas in spherical integral kernels: by exploiting the 3D TSE second-order formulas, the computational burden associated with the former is 46%, as an average, of that associated with the latter. The GLQ behaves better than the 3D/2D TSE and NCQ in terms of accuracy and computational time. In addition, the effects of a spherical shell's thickness and large-scale geocentric distance on the GP, GV, GGT and GC functionals have been studied with the 3D TSE second-order formulas as well. The relative approximation errors of the GC functionals are larger with the thicker spherical shell, which are the same as those of the GP, GV and GGT. Finally, the very-near-area problem and polar singularity problem have been considered by the numerical methods of the 3D TSE, GLQ and NCQ. The relative approximation errors of the GC components are larger than those of the GP, GV and GGT, especially at the very near area. Compared to the GC formulas in spherical integral kernels, these new GC formulas can avoid the polar singularity problem.

Ten Years of Post-Fire Vegetation Recovery following the 2007 Zaca Fire using Landsat Satellite Imagery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hallett, J. K. E.; Miller, D.; Roberts, D. A.

2017-12-01

Forest fires play a key role in shaping eco-systems. The risk to vegetation depends on the fire regime, fuel conditions (age and amount), fire temperature, and physiological characteristics such as bark thickness and stem diameter. The 2007 Zaca Fire (24 kilometers NE of Buellton, Santa Barbara County, California) burned 826.4 km2 over the course of 2 months. In this study, we used a time series of Landsat 5 Thematic Mapper and Landsat 8 Operational Land Imager imagery, to evaluate plant burn severity and post fire recovery as defined into classes of above average recovery, normal recovery, and below average recovery. We spectrally unmixed the images into green vegetation (GV), non-photosynthetic vegetation (NPV), soil surface (SOIL), and ash with a spectral library developed using Constrained Reference Endmember Selection (CRES). We delineated the fire perimeter using the differenced Normalized Burn Ratio (dNBR) and evaluated changes in this index and the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index through time. The results showed an immediate decline in GV and NPV fractions, with a rise in soil and ash fractions directly following the fire, with a slow recovery in GV fraction and a loss of bare soil cover. The was a sharp increase in the ash fraction following the fire and gradual decrease in the year after. Most areas have recovered as of 2017, with prominent recovery in the center of the burn scar and reduced recovery in areas to the south. These results indicate how post-fire vegetation varies based on initial burn severity and pre-fire GV and NPV fractions.

Retention of Structure and Function of the Cat Germinal Vesicle after Air-Drying and Storage at Suprazero Temperature1

PubMed Central

Graves-Herring, Jennifer E.; Wildt, David E.; Comizzoli, Pierre

2013-01-01

ABSTRACT The study explored a novel approach for preserving the maternal genome without the entire oocyte by air-drying the cat germinal vesicle (GV) in the presence of the disaccharide trehalose. Specifically, we examined GV structure and function after desiccation, storage at 4°C (up to 32 wk), and rehydration including the ability to resume meiosis after injection into a fresh, conspecific cytoplast. In experiment 1, DNA integrity was similar to fresh controls after 1 and 4 wk storage in the presence of trehalose, but was more fragmented at later time points (especially after 32 wk). Nuclear envelope integrity was sustained in >90% of oocytes stored for 0, 4, or 16 wk regardless of protective treatment. In experiment 2, compacted, air-dried GVs were stored for 2 or 4 wk, rehydrated, and injected into fresh cytoplasts. After culture for 24 h in vitro, up to 73% of oocytes reconstructed with desiccated GVs preserved in trehalose resumed meiosis compared to 30% of those dried in the absence of the disaccharide. At each storage time point, trehalose presence during air-drying was advantageous for resumption of meiosis, with >20% of oocytes completing nuclear maturation to metaphase II. This demonstrates a potential for preserving the female genome using the GV alone and for multiple weeks after desiccation. Trehalose enhanced the process by retaining the ability of a dried and rehydrated GV to resume communication with the surrounding cytoplasm of the recipient oocyte to permit reaching metaphase II and likely sustain subsequent embryo development. PMID:23575153

Are the Polyomaviruses BK and JC Associated with Opportunistic Infections, Graft-versus-Host Disease, or Worse Outcomes in Adult Patients Receiving Their First Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation with Low-Dose Alemtuzumab?

PubMed

Schneidewind, Laila; Neumann, Thomas; Knoll, Florian; Zimmermann, Kathrin; Smola, Sigrun; Schmidt, Christian Andreas; Krüger, William

2017-01-01

The association of polyomaviruses BK and JC with other opportunistic infections and graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) in allogeneic stem cell transplantation is controversially discussed. We conducted a retrospective study of 64 adult patients who received their first allogeneic stem cell transplantation between March 2010 and December 2014; the follow-up time was 2 years. Acute leukemia was the most frequent underlying disease (45.3%), and conditioning included myeloablative (67.2%) and nonmyeloablative protocols (32.8%). All patients received 10 mg of alemtuzumab on day -2 (20 mg in case of mismatch) as GvHD prophylaxis. Twenty-seven patients (41.5%) developed cytomegalovirus (CMV) reactivation. BKPyV-associated hemorrhagic cystitis was diagnosed in 10 patients (15.6%). Other opportunistic infections caused by viruses or protozoa occurred rarely (<10%). There was no association of BKPyV or JCPyV with CMV reactivation, Epstein-Barr virus reactivation, human herpes virus 6, or parvovirus B19 infection requiring treatment. There was a significant correlation of BKPyV-associated hemorrhagic cystitis with toxoplasmosis (p = 0.013). Additionally, there was a significant link of simultaneous BKPyV and JCPyV viruria with toxoplasmosis (p = 0.047). BKPyV and JCPyV were not associated with GvHD, relapse, or death. We found no association of BKPyV or JCPyV with viral infections or GvHD. Only the correlation of both polyomaviruses with toxoplasmosis was significant. This is a novel and interesting finding. © 2017 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Assessment of Mouse Germinal Vesicle Stage Oocyte Quality by Evaluating the Cumulus Layer, Zona Pellucida, and Perivitelline Space

PubMed Central

Liu, Ying-Lei; Chen, Ying; Zhou, Cheng-Jie; Wu, Sha-Na; Shen, Jiang-Peng; Liang, Cheng-Guang

2014-01-01

To improve the outcome of assisted reproductive technology (ART) for patients with ovulation problems, it is necessary to retrieve and select germinal vesicle (GV) stage oocytes with high developmental potential. Oocytes with high developmental potential are characterized by their ability to undergo proper maturation, fertilization, and embryo development. In this study, we analyzed morphological traits of GV stage mouse oocytes, including cumulus cell layer thickness, zona pellucida thickness, and perivitelline space width. Then, we assessed the corresponding developmental potential of each of these oocytes and found that it varies across the range measured for each morphological trait. Furthermore, by manipulating these morphological traits in vitro, we were able to determine the influence of morphological variation on oocyte developmental potential. Manually altering the thickness of the cumulus layer showed strong effects on the fertilization and embryo development potentials of oocytes, whereas manipulation of zona pellucida thickness effected the oocyte maturation potential. Our results provide a systematic detailed method for selecting GV stage oocytes based on a morphological assessment approach that would benefit for several downstream ART applications. PMID:25144310

Abnormal peripubertal development of the rat mammary gland following exposure in utero and during lactation to a mixture of genistein and the food contaminant vinclozolin.

PubMed

El Sheikh Saad, H; Meduri, G; Phrakonkham, P; Bergès, R; Vacher, S; Djallali, M; Auger, J; Canivenc-Lavier, M C; Perrot-Applanat, M

2011-07-01

The impact of early exposure to endocrine disruptor mixtures on mammary gland development is poorly known. Here, we identify the effects of a conception to weaning exposure of rats to the phytoestrogen genistein (G) and/or the antiandrogen vinclozolin (V) at 1mg/kg-d, alone or in association. Using several approaches, we found that G- and GV-exposed rats displayed significantly greater epithelial branching and proliferation, wider terminal end buds than controls at PND35, as well as ductal hyperplasia and periductal fibrosis. Focal branching defects were present in V-exposed rats. An increased ER and AR expression was observed in G- and GV- as compared to V-exposed rats at PND35. Surprisingly, a significant number of GV- and to a lesser extent, V-exposed animals displayed abnormal hyperplasic alveolar structures at PND50. Thus, gestational and lactational exposure to low doses of genistein plus vinclozolin may seriously affect peripubertal development of the rat mammary gland. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Comparison of CAM-Chem with Trace Gas Measurements from Airborne Field Campaigns from 2009-2016.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schauffler, S.; Atlas, E. L.; Kinnison, D. E.; Lamarque, J. F.; Saiz-Lopez, A.; Navarro, M. A.; Donets, V.; Blake, D. R.; Blake, N. J.

2016-12-01

Trace gas measurements collected during seven field campaigns, two with multiple deployments, will be compared with the NCAR CAM-Chem model to evaluate the model performance over multiple years. The campaigns include HIPPO (2009-2011) pole to pole observations in the Pacific on the NSF/NCAR GV over multiple seasons; SEAC4RS (Aug./Sept., 2013) in the central and southern U.S. and western Gulf of Mexico on the NASA ER-2 and DC8; ATTREX (2011-2015) on the NASA Global Hawk over multiple seasons and locations; CONTRAST (Jan/Feb, 2014) in the western Pacific on the NSF/NCAR GV; VIRGAS (Oct., 2015) in the south central US and western Gulf of Mexico on the NASA WB-57; ORCAS (Jan/Feb, 2016) over the southern ocean on the NSF/NCAR GV; and POSIDON (Oct, 2016) in the western Pacific on the NASA WB-57. We will focus on along the flight tracks comparisons with the model and will also examine comparisons of vertical distributions and various tracer-tracer correlations.

Precision Measurement of the Boron to Carbon Flux Ratio in Cosmic Rays from 1.9 GV to 2.6 TV with the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer on the International Space Station.

PubMed

Aguilar, M; Ali Cavasonza, L; Ambrosi, G; Arruda, L; Attig, N; Aupetit, S; Azzarello, P; Bachlechner, A; Barao, F; Barrau, A; Barrin, L; Bartoloni, A; Basara, L; Başeğmez-du Pree, S; Battarbee, M; Battiston, R; Becker, U; Behlmann, M; Beischer, B; Berdugo, J; Bertucci, B; Bindel, K F; Bindi, V; Boella, G; de Boer, W; Bollweg, K; Bonnivard, V; Borgia, B; Boschini, M J; Bourquin, M; Bueno, E F; Burger, J; Cadoux, F; Cai, X D; Capell, M; Caroff, S; Casaus, J; Castellini, G; Cervelli, F; Chae, M J; Chang, Y H; Chen, A I; Chen, G M; Chen, H S; Cheng, L; Chou, H Y; Choumilov, E; Choutko, V; Chung, C H; Clark, C; Clavero, R; Coignet, G; Consolandi, C; Contin, A; Corti, C; Creus, W; Crispoltoni, M; Cui, Z; Dai, Y M; Delgado, C; Della Torre, S; Demakov, O; Demirköz, M B; Derome, L; Di Falco, S; Dimiccoli, F; Díaz, C; von Doetinchem, P; Dong, F; Donnini, F; Duranti, M; D'Urso, D; Egorov, A; Eline, A; Eronen, T; Feng, J; Fiandrini, E; Finch, E; Fisher, P; Formato, V; Galaktionov, Y; Gallucci, G; García, B; García-López, R J; Gargiulo, C; Gast, H; Gebauer, I; Gervasi, M; Ghelfi, A; Giovacchini, F; Goglov, P; Gómez-Coral, D M; Gong, J; Goy, C; Grabski, V; Grandi, D; Graziani, M; Guo, K H; Haino, S; Han, K C; He, Z H; Heil, M; Hoffman, J; Hsieh, T H; Huang, H; Huang, Z C; Huh, C; Incagli, M; Ionica, M; Jang, W Y; Jinchi, H; Kang, S C; Kanishev, K; Kim, G N; Kim, K S; Kirn, Th; Konak, C; Kounina, O; Kounine, A; Koutsenko, V; Krafczyk, M S; La Vacca, G; Laudi, E; Laurenti, G; Lazzizzera, I; Lebedev, A; Lee, H T; Lee, S C; Leluc, C; Li, H S; Li, J Q; Li, J Q; Li, Q; Li, T X; Li, W; Li, Y; Li, Z H; Li, Z Y; Lim, S; Lin, C H; Lipari, P; Lippert, T; Liu, D; Liu, Hu; Lordello, V D; Lu, S Q; Lu, Y S; Luebelsmeyer, K; Luo, F; Luo, J Z; Lv, S S; Machate, F; Majka, R; Mañá, C; Marín, J; Martin, T; Martínez, G; Masi, N; Maurin, D; Menchaca-Rocha, A; Meng, Q; Mikuni, V M; Mo, D C; Morescalchi, L; Mott, P; Nelson, T; Ni, J Q; Nikonov, N; Nozzoli, F; Oliva, A; Orcinha, M; Palmonari, F; Palomares, C; Paniccia, M; Pauluzzi, M; Pensotti, S; Pereira, R; Picot-Clemente, N; Pilo, F; Pizzolotto, C; Plyaskin, V; Pohl, M; Poireau, V; Putze, A; Quadrani, L; Qi, X M; Qin, X; Qu, Z Y; Räihä, T; Rancoita, P G; Rapin, D; Ricol, J S; Rosier-Lees, S; Rozhkov, A; Rozza, D; Sagdeev, R; Sandweiss, J; Saouter, P; Schael, S; Schmidt, S M; Schulz von Dratzig, A; Schwering, G; Seo, E S; Shan, B S; Shi, J Y; Siedenburg, T; Son, D; Song, J W; Sun, W H; Tacconi, M; Tang, X W; Tang, Z C; Tao, L; Tescaro, D; Ting, Samuel C C; Ting, S M; Tomassetti, N; Torsti, J; Türkoğlu, C; Urban, T; Vagelli, V; Valente, E; Vannini, C; Valtonen, E; Vázquez Acosta, M; Vecchi, M; Velasco, M; Vialle, J P; Vitale, V; Vitillo, S; Wang, L Q; Wang, N H; Wang, Q L; Wang, X; Wang, X Q; Wang, Z X; Wei, C C; Weng, Z L; Whitman, K; Wienkenhöver, J; Wu, H; Wu, X; Xia, X; Xiong, R Q; Xu, W; Yan, Q; Yang, J; Yang, M; Yang, Y; Yi, H; Yu, Y J; Yu, Z Q; Zeissler, S; Zhang, C; Zhang, J; Zhang, J H; Zhang, S D; Zhang, S W; Zhang, Z; Zheng, Z M; Zhu, Z Q; Zhuang, H L; Zhukov, V; Zichichi, A; Zimmermann, N; Zuccon, P

2016-12-02

Knowledge of the rigidity dependence of the boron to carbon flux ratio (B/C) is important in understanding the propagation of cosmic rays. The precise measurement of the B/C ratio from 1.9 GV to 2.6 TV, based on 2.3 million boron and 8.3 million carbon nuclei collected by AMS during the first 5 years of operation, is presented. The detailed variation with rigidity of the B/C spectral index is reported for the first time. The B/C ratio does not show any significant structures in contrast to many cosmic ray models that require such structures at high rigidities. Remarkably, above 65 GV, the B/C ratio is well described by a single power law R^{Δ} with index Δ=-0.333±0.014(fit)±0.005(syst), in good agreement with the Kolmogorov theory of turbulence which predicts Δ=-1/3 asymptotically.

Factor Structure of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children: Fourth Edition in Children with ADHD.

PubMed

Thaler, Nicholas S; Barchard, Kimberly A; Parke, Elyse; Jones, W Paul; Etcoff, Lewis M; Allen, Daniel N

2015-12-01

Recent evidence suggests that the factor structure of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Fourth Edition (WISC-IV) is better explained by a five-factor model rather than the four-factor model in the standardization sample. The current study examined the WISC-IV's factor structure in a sample of children with ADHD. Participants included 314 children and adolescents who were diagnosed with ADHD. Confirmatory factor analysis was conducted on the 10 core subtests of the WISC-IV, and three models were examined including two based on Cattell-Horn-Carroll (CHC) theory. A five-factor model consisting of Gc, Gf, Gv, Gsm, and Gs factors provided the best fit for the data. The Perceptual Reasoning factor identified in the original four-factor model split into the two CHC factors, Gf and Gv, and cross-loaded the Symbol Search subtest onto the Gv factor. A five-factor model based on CHC theory provided superior fit for the WISC-IV in children with ADHD, as has been found with the standardization sample. © The Author(s) 2012.

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

Abe, K.; Itazaki, A.; Kusumoto, A.

The BESS-Polar Collaboration measured the energy spectra of cosmic-ray protons and helium during two long-duration balloon flights over Antarctica in 2004 December and 2007 December at substantially different levels of solar modulation. Proton and helium spectra probe the origin and propagation history of cosmic rays in the galaxy, and are essential to calculations of the expected spectra of cosmic-ray antiprotons, positrons, and electrons from interactions of primary cosmic-ray nuclei with the interstellar gas, and to calculations of atmospheric muons and neutrinos. We report absolute spectra at the top of the atmosphere for cosmic-ray protons in the kinetic energy range 0.2–160more » GeV and helium nuclei in the range 0.15–80 GeV/nucleon. The corresponding magnetic-rigidity ranges are 0.6–160 GV for protons and 1.1–160 GV for helium. These spectra are compared to measurements from previous BESS flights and from ATIC-2, PAMELA, and AMS-02. We also report the ratio of the proton and helium fluxes from 1.1 to 160 GV and compare this to the ratios from PAMELA and AMS-02.« less

Search for Antihelium with the BESS-Polar Spectrometer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sasaki, M.; Mitchell, J. W.; Hams, T.; Abe, K.; Fuke, H.; Haino, S.; Hasegawa, M.; Horikoshi, A.; Itazaki, A.; Kim, K. C.;

Comparisons of Reflectivities from the TRMM Precipitation Radar and Ground-Based Radars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wang, Jianxin; Wolff, David B.

2008-01-01

Given the decade long and highly successful Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM), it is now possible to provide quantitative comparisons between ground-based radars (GRs) with the space-borne TRMM precipitation radar (PR) with greater certainty over longer time scales in various tropical climatological regions. This study develops an automated methodology to match and compare simultaneous TRMM PR and GR reflectivities at four primary TRMM Ground Validation (GV) sites: Houston, Texas (HSTN); Melbourne, Florida (MELB); Kwajalein, Republic of the Marshall Islands (KWAJ); and Darwin, Australia (DARW). Data from each instrument are resampled into a three-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system. The horizontal displacement during the PR data resampling is corrected. Comparisons suggest that the PR suffers significant attenuation at lower levels especially in convective rain. The attenuation correction performs quite well for convective rain but appears to slightly over-correct in stratiform rain. The PR and GR observations at HSTN, MELB and KWAJ agree to about 1 dB on average with a few exceptions, while the GR at DARW requires +1 to -5 dB calibration corrections. One of the important findings of this study is that the GR calibration offset is dependent on the reflectivity magnitude. Hence, we propose that the calibration should be carried out using a regression correction, rather than simply adding an offset value to all GR reflectivities. This methodology is developed towards TRMM GV efforts to improve the accuracy of tropical rain estimates, and can also be applied to the proposed Global Precipitation Measurement and other related activities over the globe.

Classification of rare missense substitutions, using risk surfaces, with genetic- and molecular-epidemiology applications.

PubMed

Tavtigian, Sean V; Byrnes, Graham B; Goldgar, David E; Thomas, Alun

2008-11-01

Many individually rare missense substitutions are encountered during deep resequencing of candidate susceptibility genes and clinical mutation screening of known susceptibility genes. BRCA1 and BRCA2 are among the most resequenced of all genes, and clinical mutation screening of these genes provides an extensive data set for analysis of rare missense substitutions. Align-GVGD is a mathematically simple missense substitution analysis algorithm, based on the Grantham difference, which has already contributed to classification of missense substitutions in BRCA1, BRCA2, and CHEK2. However, the distribution of genetic risk as a function of Align-GVGD's output variables Grantham variation (GV) and Grantham deviation (GD) has not been well characterized. Here, we used data from the Myriad Genetic Laboratories database of nearly 70,000 full-sequence tests plus two risk estimates, one approximating the odds ratio and the other reflecting strength of selection, to display the distribution of risk in the GV-GD plane as a series of surfaces. We abstracted contours from the surfaces and used the contours to define a sequence of missense substitution grades ordered from greatest risk to least risk. The grades were validated internally using a third, personal and family history-based, measure of risk. The Align-GVGD grades defined here are applicable to both the genetic epidemiology problem of classifying rare missense substitutions observed in known susceptibility genes and the molecular epidemiology problem of analyzing rare missense substitutions observed during case-control mutation screening studies of candidate susceptibility genes. (c) 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

A Vertical Census of Precipitation Characteristics using Ground-based Dual-polarimetric Radar Data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wolff, D. B.; Petersen, W. A.; Marks, D. A.; Pippitt, J. L.; Tokay, A.; Gatlin, P. N.

2017-12-01

Characterization of the vertical structure/variability of precipitation and resultant microphysics is critical in providing physical validation of space-based precipitation retrievals. In support of NASAs Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) mission Ground Validation (GV) program, NASA has invested in a state-of-art dual-polarimetric radar known as NPOL. NPOL is routinely deployed on the Delmarva Peninsula in support of NASAs GPM Precipitation Research Facility (PRF). NPOL has also served as the backbone of several GPM field campaigns in Oklahoma, Iowa, South Carolina and most recently in the Olympic Mountains in Washington state. When precipitation is present, NPOL obtains very high-resolution vertical profiles of radar observations (e.g. reflectivity (ZH) and differential reflectivity (ZDR)), from which important particle size distribution parameters are retrieved such as the mass-weight mean diameter (Dm) and the intercept parameter (Nw). These data are then averaged horizontally to match the nadir resolution of the dual-frequency radar (DPR; 5 km) on board the GPM satellite. The GPM DPR, Combined, and radiometer algorithms (such as GPROF) rely on functional relationships built from assumed parametric relationships and/or retrieved parameter profiles and spatial distributions of particle size (PSD), water content, and hydrometeor phase within a given sample volume. Thus, the NPOL-retrieved profiles provide an excellent tool for characterization of the vertical profile structure and variability during GPM overpasses. In this study, we will use many such overpass comparisons to quantify an estimate of the true sub-IFOV variability as a function of hydrometeor and rain type (convective or stratiform). This presentation will discuss the development of a relational database to help provide a census of the vertical structure of precipitation via analysis and correlation of reflectivity, differential reflectivity, mean-weight drop diameter and the normalized intercept parameter of the gamma drop size distribution.

Precision Measurement of the Proton Flux in Primary Cosmic Rays from Rigidity 1 GV to 1.8 TV with the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer on the International Space Station.

PubMed

Aguilar, M; Aisa, D; Alpat, B; Alvino, A; Ambrosi, G; Andeen, K; Arruda, L; Attig, N; Azzarello, P; Bachlechner, A; Barao, F; Barrau, A; Barrin, L; Bartoloni, A; Basara, L; Battarbee, M; Battiston, R; Bazo, J; Becker, U; Behlmann, M; Beischer, B; Berdugo, J; Bertucci, B; Bigongiari, G; Bindi, V; Bizzaglia, S; Bizzarri, M; Boella, G; de Boer, W; Bollweg, K; Bonnivard, V; Borgia, B; Borsini, S; Boschini, M J; Bourquin, M; Burger, J; Cadoux, F; Cai, X D; Capell, M; Caroff, S; Casaus, J; Cascioli, V; Castellini, G; Cernuda, I; Cerreta, D; Cervelli, F; Chae, M J; Chang, Y H; Chen, A I; Chen, H; Cheng, G M; Chen, H S; Cheng, L; Chou, H Y; Choumilov, E; Choutko, V; Chung, C H; Clark, C; Clavero, R; Coignet, G; Consolandi, C; Contin, A; Corti, C; Cortina Gil, E; Coste, B; Creus, W; Crispoltoni, M; Cui, Z; Dai, Y M; Delgado, C; Della Torre, S; Demirköz, M B; Derome, L; Di Falco, S; Di Masso, L; Dimiccoli, F; Díaz, C; von Doetinchem, P; Donnini, F; Du, W J; Duranti, M; D'Urso, D; Eline, A; Eppling, F J; Eronen, T; Fan, Y Y; Farnesini, L; Feng, J; Fiandrini, E; Fiasson, A; Finch, E; Fisher, P; Galaktionov, Y; Gallucci, G; García, B; García-López, R; Gargiulo, C; Gast, H; Gebauer, I; Gervasi, M; Ghelfi, A; Gillard, W; Giovacchini, F; Goglov, P; Gong, J; Goy, C; Grabski, V; Grandi, D; Graziani, M; Guandalini, C; Guerri, I; Guo, K H; Haas, D; Habiby, M; Haino, S; Han, K C; He, Z H; Heil, M; Hoffman, J; Hsieh, T H; Huang, Z C; Huh, C; Incagli, M; Ionica, M; Jang, W Y; Jinchi, H; Kanishev, K; Kim, G N; Kim, K S; Kirn, Th; Kossakowski, R; Kounina, O; Kounine, A; Koutsenko, V; Krafczyk, M S; La Vacca, G; Laudi, E; Laurenti, G; Lazzizzera, I; Lebedev, A; Lee, H T; Lee, S C; Leluc, C; Levi, G; Li, H L; Li, J Q; Li, Q; Li, Q; Li, T X; Li, W; Li, Y; Li, Z H; Li, Z Y; Lim, S; Lin, C H; Lipari, P; Lippert, T; Liu, D; Liu, H; Lolli, M; Lomtadze, T; Lu, M J; Lu, S Q; Lu, Y S; Luebelsmeyer, K; Luo, J Z; Lv, S S; Majka, R; Mañá, C; Marín, J; Martin, T; Martínez, G; Masi, N; Maurin, D; Menchaca-Rocha, A; Meng, Q; Mo, D C; Morescalchi, L; Mott, P; Müller, M; Ni, J Q; Nikonov, N; Nozzoli, F; Nunes, P; Obermeier, A; Oliva, A; Orcinha, M; Palmonari, F; Palomares, C; Paniccia, M; Papi, A; Pauluzzi, M; Pedreschi, E; Pensotti, S; Pereira, R; Picot-Clemente, N; Pilo, F; Piluso, A; Pizzolotto, C; Plyaskin, V; Pohl, M; Poireau, V; Postaci, E; Putze, A; Quadrani, L; Qi, X M; Qin, X; Qu, Z Y; Räihä, T; Rancoita, P G; Rapin, D; Ricol, J S; Rodríguez, I; Rosier-Lees, S; Rozhkov, A; Rozza, D; Sagdeev, R; Sandweiss, J; Saouter, P; Sbarra, C; Schael, S; Schmidt, S M; Schulz von Dratzig, A; Schwering, G; Scolieri, G; Seo, E S; Shan, B S; Shan, Y H; Shi, J Y; Shi, X Y; Shi, Y M; Siedenburg, T; Son, D; Spada, F; Spinella, F; Sun, W; Sun, W H; Tacconi, M; Tang, C P; Tang, X W; Tang, Z C; Tao, L; Tescaro, D; Ting, Samuel C C; Ting, S M; Tomassetti, N; Torsti, J; Türkoğlu, C; Urban, T; Vagelli, V; Valente, E; Vannini, C; Valtonen, E; Vaurynovich, S; Vecchi, M; Velasco, M; Vialle, J P; Vitale, V; Vitillo, S; Wang, L Q; Wang, N H; Wang, Q L; Wang, R S; Wang, X; Wang, Z X; Weng, Z L; Whitman, K; Wienkenhöver, J; Wu, H; Wu, X; Xia, X; Xie, M; Xie, S; Xiong, R Q; Xin, G M; Xu, N S; Xu, W; Yan, Q; Yang, J; Yang, M; Ye, Q H; Yi, H; Yu, Y J; Yu, Z Q; Zeissler, S; Zhang, J H; Zhang, M T; Zhang, X B; Zhang, Z; Zheng, Z M; Zhuang, H L; Zhukov, V; Zichichi, A; Zimmermann, N; Zuccon, P; Zurbach, C

2015-05-01

A precise measurement of the proton flux in primary cosmic rays with rigidity (momentum/charge) from 1 GV to 1.8 TV is presented based on 300 million events. Knowledge of the rigidity dependence of the proton flux is important in understanding the origin, acceleration, and propagation of cosmic rays. We present the detailed variation with rigidity of the flux spectral index for the first time. The spectral index progressively hardens at high rigidities.

Characterization of directionally solidified lead chloride

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Singh, Narsingh Bahadur; Duval, W. M. B.; Rosenthal, B. N.

1988-01-01

A directionally solidified PbCl2 material was prepared and analyzed and subsequently used to grow single crystals. It was found that silicon, halogens, sulfur, magnesium, and phosphorus were the hardest impurities to remove by the single-pass directional freezing. Single crystals grown from the purified material displayed good scattering beam quality and showed no absorption peaks between 0.30 to 20 microns. Direct photographic observations of the solid-liquid interface at several G/V (denoting the temperature gradient and the translation velocity, respectively) ratio values showed that, as the G/V ratio decreased, the interface varied from a smooth convex surface to dendritic.

Examining the contents of isolated Xenopus germinal vesicles.

PubMed

Gall, Joseph G; Wu, Zheng'an

2010-05-01

One can manually isolate the giant oocyte nucleus or germinal vesicle (GV) of Xenopus from a living oocyte with nothing more complicated than jewelers' forceps and a dissecting microscope. Similarly, one can remove the nuclear envelope by hand and allow the lampbrush chromosomes and other nuclear organelles to spread on a microscope slide. After centrifugation, the nuclear contents adhere tightly to the slide, where they can be subjected to immunostaining or fluorescent in situ hybridization for visualization by conventional or confocal microscopy. Preparations of isolated GV contents reveal details of nuclear structure that are almost impossible to attain by more conventional techniques.

Cell-free DNA characteristics and chimerism analysis in patients after allogeneic cell transplantation.

PubMed

Duque-Afonso, Jesus; Waterhouse, Miguel; Pfeifer, Dietmar; Follo, Marie; Duyster, Justus; Bertz, Hartmut; Finke, Jürgen

2018-02-01

Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) isolated from plasma or serum has received increasing interest for diagnostic applications in pregnancy, solid tumors and solid organ transplantation. The reported clinical usefulness of cfDNA obtained from plasma or serum in patients undergoing allogeneic cell transplantation (alloHSCT) is scarce. To analyze the potential clinical utility of cfDNA chimerism analysis after alloHSCT. A total of 196 samples obtained from 110 patients were investigated for their chimeric status both in peripheral blood and plasma using standard PCR for microsatellite amplification. Plasma DNA size distribution was analyzed using capillary electrophoresis. The mean cfDNA concentration in the transplanted patients was 469ng/ml (range: 50-10,700ng/ml). The size range of almost 80% of the analyzed fragments was between 80 and 200bp. In 41 out of the 110 patients included in the study a mixture of donor and recipient plasma cfDNA was detected. There was a statistically significant difference in the percentage of plasma mixed chimerism between the patients without transplant related complications and the patients with either GvHD (p<0.05) or relapse (p<0.01). In those patients who showed improvement of GvHD also displayed a decrease in the observable percentage of recipient cfDNA during GvHD treatment. In patients without improvement or even with worsening of acute GvHD, stable or increasing levels of recipient cfDNA were detected. cfDNA in combination with peripheral blood and bone marrow cell chimerism analysis might improve its utility in the clinic in particular in those patients with clinical complications after alloHSCT. Copyright © 2017 The Canadian Society of Clinical Chemists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Lumboperitoneal Shunts for the Treatment of Idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus: A Comparison of Small-Lumen Abdominal Catheters to Gravitational Add-On Valves in a Single Center.

PubMed

Nakajima, Madoka; Miyajima, Masakazu; Akiba, Chihiro; Ogino, Ikuko; Kawamura, Kaito; Sugano, Hidenori; Hara, Takeshi; Tange, Yuichi; Fusegi, Keiko; Karagiozov, Kostadin; Arai, Hajime

2018-04-23

Treating idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) with lumboperitoneal shunts (LPSs) may cause cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) overdrainage. To investigate whether LPSs, including gravitational "add-on" and programmable pressure valves (PPVs/+GVs), reduce complications and improve outcomes. We compared PPVs/+small lumen abdominal catheters (SLs) to PPVs/+GVs using different opening pressures for supine and standing positions. We analyzed 115 patients with iNPH in 2 consequent cohorts: 48 patients receiving LPSs with PPVs/+SLs and 67 patients receiving LPSs with PPVs/+GVs. The modified Rankin Scale (mRS), Japan iNPH grading scale, Mini Mental State Examination, Frontal Assessment Battery, and CSF biomarkers were evaluated. Comparisons of postoperative clinical factors in 64 patients in the PPV/+SL and PPV/+GV groups using 1:1 propensity score matching revealed differences in the mean (±standard deviation) postoperative mRS (2.65 ± 1.07 vs 2.16 ± 1.02, P = .049) and gait disturbance scores (1.97 ± 1.03 vs 1.39 ± 0.92, P = .011). Thus, outcomes improved in the LPS group with the GV. Serious and nonserious adverse event rates for the PPV/+SL and PPV/+GV groups were 22.9% and 19.4% (P = .647) and 38% and 17.9% (P = .018), respectively, indicating higher rates of subdural collections for the PPV/+SL group. This is the first study to examine LPS treatment for iNPH using a GV in tandem with a PPV. Our results suggest that the CSF shunt flow volume is restricted in the standing position and maintained in the supine position, thus improving iNPH symptoms. This may reduce intracranial CSF hypotension-related complications.

Lowest Glucose Variability and Hypoglycemia Are Observed With the Combination of a GLP-1 Receptor Agonist and Basal Insulin (VARIATION Study).

PubMed

Bajaj, Harpreet S; Venn, Karri; Ye, Chenglin; Patrick, Avril; Kalra, Shivani; Khandwala, Hasnain; Aslam, Nadeem; Twum-Barima, David; Aronson, Ronnie

2017-02-01

There is a dearth of published literature comparing glucose variability (GV) between different insulin regimens in type 2 diabetes. This cohort study compares GV using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in patients with well-controlled type 2 diabetes using four common insulin regimens: basal insulin + oral drugs (BO), basal insulin + glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) (BGLP), premixed insulin (PM), and basal-bolus insulin (BB). Consecutive patients from three endocrinology clinics who met study criteria-type 2 diabetes, age 18 to 80 years, BMI ≤ 45 kg/m 2 , stable insulin regimen for a minimum of 6 months, and stable A1C value ≤7.5% (58 mmol/mol) before study enrollment-underwent 6-day masked CGM. Hypoglycemia was defined as a sensor glucose concentration <70 mg/dL on CGM. A total of 160 patients with comparable baseline characteristics formed four equal insulin regimen cohorts. The daily glucose SD (the primary outcome) was significantly lower in the BGLP cohort versus the BO, PM, and BB cohorts (P = 0.03, P = 0.01, and P < 0.01, respectively), and remained so after adjusting for age, BMI, type 2 diabetes duration, and A1C. Similarly, daily hypoglycemia outcomes on CGM were least for the BGLP cohort. The lowest GV and lowest hypoglycemia were observed in patients using the combination of basal insulin with a GLP-1 RA, supporting the complementary glycemic action of these agents in type 2 diabetes. These observed benefits in GV and hypoglycemia may contribute to the cardiovascular outcome reduction seen with GLP-1 RA therapy and should be investigated further. © 2017 by the American Diabetes Association.

Electroacupuncture: a new approach to open the blood-brain barrier in rats recovering from middle cerebral artery occlusion.

PubMed

Zhang, Jiangsong; Lin, Xianming; Zhou, Hui; Chen, Yuanyuan; Xiao, Shuangkai; Jiao, Junyue; Zhao, Yibin; Di, Zhong

2018-06-14

To examine for an opening effect on the blood-brain barrier (BBB) in intact rats and rats with experimental ischaemia-reperfusion (I/R) during the recovery period after various electroacupuncture (EA) treatments with different time courses, and to determine whether there is a time-dependent effect. An additional objective was to determine whether this method could induce the penetration of nerve growth factor (NGF) through the BBB. A middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model was first established. We chose different stimulation time courses and observed the effects of EA treatment (100 Hz frequency; 2 mA intensity) at GV20 and GV26 on the BBB in rats recovering from MCAO 3 weeks after modelling. The rats were injected with 2% Evans blue (EB) saline. The brain water content was measured using a wet/dry weighing method. The degree of penetration of EB was detected using spectrophotometry and laser confocal microscopy. The rats were then injected with NGF, and the concentration of NGF in the brain tissues was measured using ELISA. The increase in the BBB permeability was most notable following the 8 min EA stimulation (P<0.05), which may be advantageous for the targeted delivery of drugs (such as NGF) into the brain. Additionally, this effect did not appear to cause brain oedema (P>0.05) in healthy or MCAO rats. EA treatment for a certain stimulation time at GV20 and GV26 in MCAO rats can increase BBB permeability. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2018. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

Alternative Donor/Unrelated Donor Transplants for the β-Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Disease.

PubMed

Fitzhugh, Courtney D; Abraham, Allistair; Hsieh, Matthew M

2017-01-01

Considerable progress with respect to donor source has been achieved in allogeneic stem cell transplant for patients with hemoglobin disorders, with matched sibling donors in the 1980s, matched unrelated donors and cord blood sources in the 1990s, and haploidentical donors in the 2000s. Many studies have solidified hematopoietic progenitors from matched sibling marrow, cord blood, or mobilized peripheral blood as the best source-with the lowest graft rejection and graft versus host disease (GvHD), and highest disease-free survival rates. For patients without HLA-matched sibling donors, but who are otherwise eligible for transplant, fully allelic matched unrelated donor (8/8 HLA-A, B, C, DRB1) appears to be the next best option, though an ongoing study in patients with sickle cell disease will provide data that are currently lacking. There are high GvHD rates and low engraftment rates in some of the unrelated cord transplant studies. Haploidentical donors have emerged in the last decade to have less GvHD; however, improvements are needed to increase the engraftment rate. Thus the decision to use unrelated cord blood units or haploidentical donors may depend on the institutional expertise; there is no clear preferred choice over the other. Active research is ongoing in expanding cord blood progenitor cells to overcome the limitation of cell dose, including the options of small molecule inhibitor compounds added to ex vivo culture or co-culture with supportive cell lines. There are inconsistent data from using 7/8 or lower matched unrelated donors. Before routine use of these less matched donor sources, work is needed to improve patient selection, conditioning regimen, GvHD prophylaxis, and/or other strategies.

Acoustic behavior of Halobacterium salinarum gas vesicles in the high frequency range: experiments and modeling

PubMed Central

Cherin, Emmanuel; Melis, Johan M.; Bourdeau, Raymond W.; Yin, Melissa; Kochmann, Dennis M.; Foster, F. Stuart; Shapiro, Mikhail G.

2017-01-01

Gas vesicles are a new and unique class of biologically derived ultrasound contrast agents with sub-micron size whose acoustic properties have not been fully elucidated. In this study, we investigated the acoustic collapse pressure and behavior of Halobacterium salinarum gas vesicles at transmit center frequencies ranging from 12.5 to 27.5 MHz. The acoustic collapse pressure was found to be above 550 kPa at all frequencies, 9 fold higher than the critical pressure observed in hydrostatic conditions. We show that gas vesicles behave non-linearly when exposed to ultrasound at incident pressure ranging from 160 kPa to the collapse pressure, and generate second harmonic amplitudes of −2 to −6 dB below the fundamental in media with viscosities ranging from 0.89 to 8 mPa.s. Simulations performed using a Rayleigh-Plesset type model accounting for buckling, and a dynamic finite element analysis, suggest that buckling is the mechanism behind the generation of harmonics. We found good agreement between the level of second harmonic relative to the fundamental measured at 20 MHz and the Rayleigh-Plesset model predictions. Finite element simulations extended these findings to a non-spherical geometry, confirmed that the acoustic buckling pressure corresponds to the critical pressure in hydrostatic conditions, and support the hypothesis of limited gas flow across the GV shell during the compression phase in the frequency range investigated. From simulations, estimates of GV bandwidth-limited scattering indicate that a single GV has a scattering cross-section comparable to that of a red blood cell. These findings will inform the development of GV-based contrast agents and pulse sequences to optimize their detection with ultrasound. PMID:28258771

Preventative effect of massage on gastric volvulus in infants with gastroesophageal reflux-induced pneumonia.

PubMed

Yan, Suqi; Xiong, Xiaoli; Wan, Qi; Liu, Fan; Tang, Jianqiao; Jiang, Zhixia; Zhou, Lishan; Yuan, Kai; Xie, Dong

2015-10-01

To study the preventative effects of massage on gastric volvulus (GV) in infants with gastroesophageal reflux (GER)-induced pneumonia. One-hundred and eighty GV with GER-induced pneumonia inpatients were divided randomly into four groups: basic treatment 1 (n = 60), basic treatment 2 (n = 30), massage treatment 1 (n = 60) and massage treatment 2 (n = 30). Clinical examinations selected between groups 1 and 2 were different. Radiography of the upper gastrointestinal tract using iodine-containing contrast was assessed in group 1 before and after treatment, whereas 24-h pH monitoring of the distal esophagus was assessed in group 2 before and after treatment. Symptom scores and chest radiography were assessed in all groups upon hospital admission and after procedures. Clinical effects were estimated after procedures in all groups. The prevalence of severe pneumonia among the four groups was compared. Massage treatment groups showed a significantly higher percentage of cure and total effect (P < 0.05, P < 0.01) and a lower prevalence of recurrence (but with no statistic difference, P > 0.05) than basic treatment groups. Furthermore, massage treatment groups had remarkably lower scores for symptoms and signs (P < 0.05, P < 0.01), especially for choking on milk, than basic treatment groups. There was significant attenuation of chest inflammation (P < 0.05, P < 0.01), GV (P < 0.05, P < 0.01) and GER (P < 0.05, P < 0.01) in massage treatment groups compared with those in basic treatment groups. Finally, massage treatment groups demonstrated a lower prevalence of severe pneumonia than basic treatment groups (P < 0.05). Massage treatment can prevent GV with GER-induced pneumonia in infants by timely correction of stomach rotation and subsequent attenuation of GER.

Triphenylmethane Derivatives Have High In Vitro and In Vivo Activity against the Main Causative Agents of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis

PubMed Central

de Souza Pietra, Renata Celi Carvalho; Rodrigues, Lucas Fonseca; Teixeira, Eliane; Fried, Levi; Lefkove, Benjamin; Rabello, Ana; Arbiser, Jack; Ferreira, Lucas Antônio Miranda; Fernandes, Ana Paula

2013-01-01

The current standard of care for cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is organic antimonial compounds, but the administration of these compounds is complicated by a low therapeutic - toxic index, as well as parenteral administration. Thus, there is an urgent need for the development of new and inexpensive therapies for the treatment of CL. In this study, we evaluate the activity of the triphenylmethane (TPM) class of compounds against three species of Leishmania which are pathogenic in humans. The TPM have a history of safe use in humans, dating back to the use of the original member of this class, gentian violet (GV), from the early 20th century. Initially, the in vitro efficacy against Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis, L. (Leishmania) amazonensis and L. (L.) major of 9 newly synthesized TPM, in addition to GV, was tested. Inhibitory concentrations (IC) IC50 of 0.025 to 0.84 µM had been found in promastigotes in vitro assays. The four most effective compounds were then tested in amastigote intracellular assays, resulting in IC50 of 0.10 to 1.59 µM. A high degree of selectivity of antiparasitic activity over toxicity to mammalian cells was observed. Afterwards, GV and TPM 6 were tested in a topical formulation in mice infected with L. (L.) amazonensis leading to elimination of parasite burdens at the site of lesion/infection. These results demonstrated that TPM present significant anti-leishmanial activities and provide a rationale for human clinical trials of GV and other TPM. TPM are inexpensive and safe, thus using them for treatment of CL may have a major impact on public health. PMID:23341885

Continuous intraperitoneal insulin infusion versus subcutaneous insulin therapy in the treatment of type 1 diabetes: effects on glycemic variability.

PubMed

van Dijk, Peter R; Groenier, Klaas H; DeVries, J Hans; Gans, Reinold O B; Kleefstra, Nanno; Bilo, Henk J G; Logtenberg, Susan J J

2015-06-01

As continuous intraperitoneal insulin infusion (CIPII) results in a more physiologic action of insulin than subcutaneous (SC) insulin administration, we hypothesized that CIPII would result in less glycemic variability (GV) than SC insulin therapy among type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) patients. Data from 5-day blind continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) measurements performed during a 26-week, prospective, observational case-control study were analyzed. The coefficient of variation (CV) was the primary measure of GV. In addition, the SD of the mean glucose level, mean of daily differences, and mean amplitude of glycemic excursions were calculated. In total, 176 patients (36% male; mean age, 49 [SD 13] years; median diabetes duration, 24 [interquartile range, 17, 35] years; glycated hemoglobin level, 63 [10] mmol/mmol), of which 37 used CIPII and 139 SC insulin therapy, were analyzed. CGM data were available for 169 patients at baseline (CIPII, n=35; SC, n=134) and for 164 patients at 26 weeks (CIPII, n=35; SC, n=129). After adjustment for baseline differences, the CV was 4.9% (95% confidence interval, 1.0, 8.8) lower with CIPII- compared with SC-treated patients, irrespective of the use of multiple daily injections or continuous SC insulin infusion. There were no differences in other indices of GV between groups. Despite higher blood glucose, the CV was slightly lower with CIPII compared with SC insulin therapy in T1DM patients, and other measures of GV were identical. Future studies are needed to confirm these findings and investigate whether this results in prevention of hypoglycemia and even perhaps (less) microvascular complications.

Extensin network formation in Vitis vinifera callus cells is an essential and causal event in rapid and H2O2-induced reduction in primary cell wall hydration

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Extensin deposition is considered important for the correct assembly and biophysical properties of primary cell walls, with consequences to plant resistance to pathogens, tissue morphology, cell adhesion and extension growth. However, evidence for a direct and causal role for the extensin network formation in changes to cell wall properties has been lacking. Results Hydrogen peroxide treatment of grapevine (Vitis vinifera cv. Touriga) callus cell walls was seen to induce a marked reduction in their hydration and thickness. An analysis of matrix proteins demonstrated this occurs with the insolubilisation of an abundant protein, GvP1, which displays a primary structure and post-translational modifications typical of dicotyledon extensins. The hydration of callus cell walls free from saline-soluble proteins did not change in response to H2O2, but fully regained this capacity after addition of extensin-rich saline extracts. To assay the specific contribution of GvP1 cross-linking and other wall matrix proteins to the reduction in hydration, GvP1 levels in cell walls were manipulated in vitro by binding selected fractions of extracellular proteins and their effect on wall hydration during H2O2 incubation assayed. Conclusions This approach allowed us to conclude that a peroxidase-mediated formation of a covalently linked network of GvP1 is essential and causal in the reduction of grapevine callus wall hydration in response to H2O2. Importantly, this approach also indicated that extensin network effects on hydration was only partially irreversible and remained sensitive to changes in matrix charge. We discuss this mechanism and the importance of these changes to primary wall properties in the light of extensin distribution in dicotyledons. PMID:21672244

Graft selection strategy in adult-to-adult living donor liver transplantation: When both hemiliver grafts meet volumetric criteria.

PubMed

Kurihara, Takeshi; Yoshizumi, Tomoharu; Yoshida, Yoshihiro; Ikegami, Toru; Itoh, Shinji; Harimoto, Norifumi; Ninomiya, Mizuki; Uchiyama, Hideaki; Okabe, Hirohisa; Kimura, Koichi; Kawanaka, Hirofumi; Shirabe, Ken; Maehara, Yoshihiko

2016-07-01

To ensure donor safety in living donor liver transplantation (LDLT), the left and caudate lobe (LL) is the preferred graft choice. However, patient prognosis may still be poor even if graft volume (GV) selection criteria are met. Our aim was to evaluate the effects of right lobe (RL) donation when the LL graft selection criteria are met. Consecutive donors (n = 135) with preoperative LL graft volumetric GV/standard liver volume (SLV) of ≥35% and RL remnant of ≥35% were retrospectively studied. Patients were divided into 2 groups: LL graft and RL graft. Recipient's body surface area (BSA), Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score, and the donor's age were higher in the RL group. The donor's BSA and preoperative volumetric GV/SLV of the LL graft were smaller in the RL group. The predicted score (calculated using data for graft size, donor age, MELD score, and the presence of portosystemic shunt, which correlated well with graft function and with 6-month graft survival) of the RL group, was significantly lower if the LL graft were used, but using the actual RL graft improved the score equal to that of the LL group. Six-month and 12-month graft survival rates did not differ between the 2 groups. In patients with a poor prognosis, a larger RL graft improved the predicted score and survival was equal to that of patients who received LL grafts. In conclusion, graft selection by GV, donor age, and recipient MELD score improves outcomes in LDLT. Liver Transplantation 22 914-922 2016 AASLD. © 2016 American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases.

Mean isotopic composition of cosmic rays with 12 less than Z less than or equal to 26 at 2.7 to 3.0 GV

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Maehl, R. C.; Israel, M. H.; Klarmann, J.

1974-01-01

Results are presented from a high-altitude balloon flight in September 1972 near 3-GV geomagnetic cutoff. The detector is a combination of ionization chambers and a Lucite Cerenkov counter with a charge resolution of 0.34 charge units. Following the technique described by Lund et al. (1971), use is made of the geomagnetic rigidity cutoff and measured momentum-per-nucleon spectra of individual elements to determine values of A/Z for even Z elements of 16 less than or equal to Z less than or equal to 26 relative to A/Z of silicon.

A phosphate transporter from the mycorrhizal fungus Glomus versiforme.

PubMed

Harrison, M J; van Buuren, M L

1995-12-07

Vesicular-arbuscular (VA) mycorrhizal fungi form symbiotic associations with the roots of most terrestrial plants, including many agriculturally important crop species. The fungi colonize the cortex of the root to obtain carbon from their plant host, while assisting the plant with the uptake of phosphate and other mineral nutrients from the soil. This association is beneficial to the plant, because phosphate is essential for plant growth and development, especially during growth under nutrient-limiting conditions. Molecular genetic studies of these fungi and their interaction with plants have been limited owing to the obligate symbiotic nature of the VA fungi, so the molecular mechanisms underlying fungal-mediated uptake and translocation of phosphate from the soil to the plant remain unknown. Here we begin to investigate this process by identifying a complementary DNA that encodes a transmembrane phosphate transporter (GvPT) from Glomus versiforme, a VA mycorrhizal fungus. The function of the protein encoded by GvPT was confirmed by complementation of a yeast phosphate transport mutant. Expression of GvPT was localized to the external hyphae of G. versiforme during mycorrhizal associations, these being the initial site of phosphate uptake from the soil.

Review on short-wavelength infrared laser gated-viewing at Fraunhofer IOSB

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Göhler, Benjamin; Lutzmann, Peter

2017-03-01

This paper reviews the work that has been done at Fraunhofer IOSB (and its predecessor institutes) in the past ten years in the area of laser gated-viewing (GV) in the short-wavelength infrared (SWIR) band. Experimental system demonstrators in various configurations have been built up to show the potential for different applications and to investigate specific topics. The wavelength of the pulsed illumination laser is 1.57 μm and lies in the invisible, retina-safe region allowing much higher pulse energies than for wavelengths in the visible or near-infrared band concerning eye safety. All systems built up, consist of gated Intevac LIVAR® cameras based on EBCCD/EBCMOS detectors sensitive in the SWIR band. This review comprises military and civilian applications in maritime and land domain-in particular vision enhancement in bad visibility, long-range applications, silhouette imaging, 3-D imaging by sliding gates and slope method, bistatic GV imaging, and looking through windows. In addition, theoretical studies that were conducted-e.g., estimating 3-D accuracy or modeling range performance-are presented. Finally, an outlook for future work in the area of SWIR laser GV at Fraunhofer IOSB is given.

Evaluation of garlic plant and indinavir drug efficacy in the treatment of cryptosporidiosis in experimentally immumosuppressed rats.

PubMed

Toulah, Fawzia H; El-Shafei, Amal A; Al-Rashidi, Hyat S

2012-08-01

The present study evaluated the efficacy of garlic plant and Indinavir on cryptosporidiosis in experimentally immunosuppressed infected rats. One hundred forty five Wister rats aging 3 weeks were divided into five groups: GI: normal control, GII: Indinavir treated control, GIII: immunosuppressed infected, GIV: immunosuppressed infected and treated with garlic and GV: immunosuppressed infected and treated with Indinavir. All were subjected to clinical, parasitological and histopathological examination at different days post infection (P.I.). The results showed that in GIII, all rats had diarrhea, loss of appetite, weakness and limited movement, with 51.4% death rate. In both treated groups, some rats regained activities, with death rate of 33.3% (GV) and non GIV. There was significant decrease in the number of excreted oocysts at 5th and 10th day post treatment (P.T.) in treated groups. One week P.T., in GIV, the number of excreted oocysts had continued in decreasing while in GV, it was insignificantly increased. No cure rate was detected in both treated groups as oocysts still excreted till the end of experiment. The histopathological changes improved in treated groups in spite of the presence of some parasites on the epithelial surfaces of ileum.

Novel mutations in PATL2 cause female infertility with oocyte germinal vesicle arrest.

PubMed

Huang, Lingli; Tong, Xianhong; Wang, Fengsong; Luo, Lihua; Jin, Rentao; Fu, Yingyun; Zhou, Guixiang; Li, Daojing; Song, Gaojie; Liu, Yusheng; Zhu, Fuxi

2018-06-01

Do PATL2 mutations account for female infertility with oocyte germinal vesicle (GV) arrest? Four of nine independent families with oocyte GV arrest were identified with biallelic PATL2 mutations, suggesting that these mutations may be responsible for oocyte maturation arrest in primary infertile women. Recently, two independent studies have demonstrated that infertility in some women with oocyte maturation arrest at the GV stage was caused by biallelic mutations in PATL2. PATL2 encodes protein PAT1 homolog 2, an RNA-binding protein that may act as a translational repressor. In this study, nine unrelated primary infertile females presenting with oocyte GV arrest were recruited during the treatment of early rescue ICSI or ICSI from January 2013 to December 2016. Genomic DNA was isolated from blood samples obtained from all nine affected individuals and all of their available family members. All the coding regions of PATL2 were sequenced by Sanger sequencing. The pathogenicity of the identified variants and their possible effects on the protein were evaluated in silico. Five novel point mutations and one recurrent splicing mutation in PATL2 were identified in four of nine (44.4%) unrelated patients. We found a consanguineous family with a homozygous missense mutation in two affected sisters, and their fertile brother. There were no clear phenotypic differences in oocytes between the patient with the homozygous missense mutation, patients with nonsense mutations and undiagnosed patients. n/a. The function of PATL2 remains largely unknown. Both the exact pathogenic mechanism(s) of mutated PATL2 causing human oocyte maturation arrest and the strategies to overcome this condition should be further investigated in the future. According to our data, mutations in PATL2 account for 44.4% of the individuals with oocyte GV arrest. Our study further confirms that PATL2 is required for human oocyte maturation and female fertility, which indicates a potential prognostic value of testing for PATL2 mutations in primary infertile women with oocyte maturation arrest. Natural Science Foundation of Anhui Province (1808085MH241), National Natural Science Foundation of China (81401251 and 81370757) and Central Guided Local Development of Science and Technology Special Fund (2016080802D114) supported this study. None of the authors have any competing interests.

Effectiveness of dust control methods for crystalline silica and respirable suspended particulate matter exposure during manual concrete surface grinding.

PubMed

Akbar-Khanzadeh, Farhang; Milz, Sheryl A; Wagner, Cynthia D; Bisesi, Michael S; Ames, April L; Khuder, Sadik; Susi, Pam; Akbar-Khanzadeh, Mahboubeh

2010-12-01

Concrete grinding exposes workers to unacceptable levels of crystalline silica dust, known to cause diseases such as silicosis and possibly lung cancer. This study examined the influence of major factors of exposure and effectiveness of existing dust control methods by simulating field concrete grinding in an enclosed workplace laboratory. Air was monitored during 201 concrete grinding sessions while using a variety of grinders, accessories, and existing dust control methods, including general ventilation (GV), local exhaust ventilation (LEV), and wet grinding. Task-specific geometric mean (GM) of respirable crystalline silica dust concentrations (mg/m³ for LEV:HEPA-, LEV:Shop-vac-, wet-, and uncontrolled-grinding, while GV was off/on, were 0.17/0.09, 0.57/0.13, 1.11/0.44, and 23.1/6.80, respectively. Silica dust concentrations (mg/m³ using 100-125 mm (4-5 inch) and 180 mm (7 inch) grinding cups were 0.53/0.22 and 2.43/0.56, respectively. GM concentrations of silica dust were significantly lower for (1) GV on (66.0%) vs. off, and (2) LEV:HEPA- (99.0%), LEV:Shop-vac- (98.1%) or wet- (94.4%) vs. uncontrolled-grinding. Task-specific GM of respirable suspended particulate matter (RSP) concentrations (mg/m³ for LEV:HEPA-, LEV:Shop-vac-, wet-, and uncontrolled grinding, while GV was off/on, were 1.58/0.63, 7.20/1.15, 9.52/4.13, and 152/47.8, respectively. GM concentrations of RSP using 100-125 mm and 180 mm grinding cups were 4.78/1.62 and 22.2/5.06, respectively. GM concentrations of RSP were significantly lower for (1) GV on (70.2%) vs. off, and (2) LEV:HEPA- (98.9%), LEV:Shop-vac- (96.9%) or wet- (92.6%) vs. uncontrolled grinding. Silica dust and RSP were not significantly affected by (1) orientation of grinding surfaces (vertical vs. inclined); (2) water flow rates for wet grinding; (3) length of task-specific sampling time; or, (4) among cup sizes of 100, 115 or 125 mm. No combination of factors or control methods reduced an 8-hr exposure level to below the recommended criterion of 0.025 mg/m³ for crystalline silica, requiring further refinement in engineering controls, administrative controls, or the use of respirators.

Challenges of T Cell Therapies for Virus-associated Diseases after Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

PubMed Central

Leen, Ann M.; Tripic, Tamara; Rooney, Cliona M.

2009-01-01

Importance of the field Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is the treatment of choice for many hematological malignancies and genetic disorders. A majority of patients do not have a human leukocyte antigen (HLA) identical sibling donor, and alternative stem cell sources include HLA-matched or mismatched unrelated donors and haploidentical related donors. However, alternative donor HSCT are associated with three major complications (i) graft rejection, (ii) graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) and (iii) delayed immune reconstitution leading to viral infections and relapse. Areas covered in this review Graft rejection and the risk of GvHD can be significantly reduced by using intensive conditioning regimens, including in vivo T cell depletion as well as ex vivo T cell depletion of the graft. However, the benefits of removing alloreactive T cells from the graft are offset by the concomitant removal of T cells with anti-viral or anti-tumor activity as well as the profound delay in endogenous T cell recovery post-transplant. Thus, opportunistic infections, many of which are not amenable to conventional small-molecule therapeutics, are frequent in these patients and are associated with significant morbidity and high mortality rates. This review discusses current cell therapies to prevent or treat viral infections/reactivations post-transplant. What the reader will gain The reader will gain an understanding of the current state of cell therapy to prevent and treat viral infections post-HSCT, and will be introduced to preclinical studies designed to develop and validate new manufacturing procedures intended to improve therapeutic efficacy and reduce associated toxicities. Take home message Reconstitution of HSCT recipients with antigen-specific T cells, produced either by allodepletion or in vitro reactivation, can offer an effective strategy to provide both immediate and long-term protection without harmful alloreactivity. PMID:20132056

Gravity Waves in the Presence of Shear during DEEPWAVE

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Doyle, J. D.; Jiang, Q.; Reinecke, P. A.; Reynolds, C. A.; Eckermann, S. D.; Fritts, D. C.; Smith, R. B.; Taylor, M. J.; Dörnbrack, A.

2016-12-01

The DEEP propagating gravity WAVE program (DEEPWAVE) is a comprehensive, airborne and ground-based measurement and modeling program centered on New Zealand and focused on providing a new understanding of gravity wave dynamics and impacts from the troposphere through the mesosphere and lower thermosphere. This program employed the NSF/NCAR GV (NGV) research aircraft from a base in New Zealand in a 6-week field measurement campaign in June-July 2014. During the field phase, the NGV was equipped with new Rayleigh and sodium resonance lidars and an advanced mesospheric temperature mapper (AMTM), a microwave temperature profiler (MTP), as well as dropwindsondes and flight level instruments providing measurements spanning altitudes from immediately above the NGV flight altitude ( 13 km) to 100 km. In this study, we utilize the DEEPWAVE observations and the nonhydrostatic COAMPS configured at high resolution (2 km) with a deep domain (60-80 km) to explore the effects of horizontal wind shear on gravity wave propagation and wave characteristics. Real-data simulations have been conducted for several DEEPWAVE cases. The results suggest that horizontal shear associated with the stratospheric polar night jet refracts the gravity waves and leads to propagation of waves significantly downwind of the South Island. These waves have been referred to as "trailing gravity waves", since they are found predominantly downwind of the orography of the South Island and the wave crests rotate nearly normal to the mountain crest. Observations from the G-V, remote sensing instruments, and the AIRS satellite confirm the presence of gravity waves downwind of the orography in numerous events. The horizontal propagation in the stratosphere can be explained by group velocity arguments for gravity waves in which the wave energy is advected downwind by the component of the flow normal to the horizontal wavevector. We explore the impact of the shear on gravity wave propagation in COAMPS configured in an idealized mode initialized with a zonally balanced stratospheric jet. The idealized results confirm the importance of horizontal wind shear for the refraction of the waves. The zonal momentum flux minimum is shown to bend or refract into the jet in the stratosphere as a consequence of the wind shear.

[Treatment of otorhinolaryngologic diseases of deficient heat type with Professor XIE Qiang's Tihu Guanding needling method].

PubMed

Chen, Dan; Xie, Qiange; Huang, Bing-Lin

2014-01-01

Professor XIE Qiang's Tihu Guanding needling method, a kind of acupuncture method which takes acupoints of the Conception Vessel as the primary and acupoints of the Governor Vessel as the secondary. Acupoints Lianquan (CV 23), Tiantu (CV 22), Qihai (CV 6), Zhongwan (CV 12), Baihui (GV 20) and Dazhui (GV 14) are adopted as the basic ones. Other points can be added according to various symptoms, for instance, Yingxiang (LI 20) and Yintang (GV 29) for rhinopathy, Tinggong (SI 19) and Yifeng (TE 17) for otopathy, Yan'an (Professor XIE's experience) and Shanglianquan (EX-HN 21) for pharyngopathy and Kaiyin 1 (Professor XIE's experience) and Kaiyin 2 (Professor XIE's experience) for laryngopathy. During the needle retention, rotation manipulation should be done every 5 min at Lianquan (CV 23). And the patient should be told to put the tip of one's tongue at the the palate as well as to do deep breathing to communicate the Conception Vessel and the Governor Vessel. Moxibustion is adopted at Yongquan (KI 1) to induce the up floating fire to mingmen (where the primary yang is stored). The therapeutic effect on treatment of persistent otorhinolaryngologic diseases with the above mentioned method is approve to be good.

Bendamustine added to allogeneic conditioning improves long-term outcomes in patients with CLL.

PubMed

Khouri, I F; Sui, D; Jabbour, E J; Samuels, B I; Turturro, F; Alatrash, G; Anderlini, P; Ahmed, S; Oran, B; Ciurea, S O; Marin, D; Olson, A; Patel, K K; Popat, U R; Ledesma, C; Kadia, T M; Ferrajoli, A; Burger, J A; Jorgensen, J L; Medeiros, L J; Bassett, R L; Gulbis, A M

2017-01-01

Bendamustine has shown a favorable safety profile when included in chemotherapy regimens for several types of lymphoma, including CLL. This study investigated the long-term effect of adding bendamustine to a conditioning regimen on survival, rate of engraftment, immune recovery and GvHD after allogeneic stem cell transplantation (alloSCT) in CLL patients. These outcomes were compared with the fludarabine, cyclophosphamide and rituximab (FCR) conditioning regimen. We reviewed the data for 89 CLL patients treated on three trials at our institution. Twenty-six (29%) patients received bendamustine, fludarabine and rituximab (BFR) and 63 (71%) received FCR. Patient characteristics were similar in both groups. Ten (38%) BFR-treated patients vs only two (3%) FCR-treated patients did not experience severe neutropenia (P=<0.001). The 3-year overall survival estimates for the BFR and FCR groups were 82 and 51% (P=0.03), and the 3-year PFS estimates were 63% and 27% (P=0.001), respectively. The 2-year treatment-related mortality was 8 and 23% and the incidence of grade 3 or 4 GvHD was 4% and 10%, respectively. This study is the first to report that addition of bendamustine to alloSCT conditioning for CLL patients is associated with improved survival and lower mortality, myelosuppression, and GvHD.

Comparable post-relapse outcomes between haploidentical and matched related donor allogeneic stem cell transplantation.

PubMed

Ma, Y-R; Xu, L-P; Zhang, X-H; Yan, C-H; Wang, Y; Wang, F-R; Wang, J-Z; Chen, Y; Han, W; Chen, Y-H; Chen, H; Liu, K-Y; Huang, X-J

2017-03-01

We investigated the impact of donor type on post-relapse survival (PRS) in 85 patients with hematological relapse after their first allogeneic hematological stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) for hematological malignancy. The median follow-up was 64 months among survivors. Both 3-year overall survival and 3-year PRS were similar in haploidentical donor (HID) and matched sibling donor (MRD) transplantation (13.0%±4.7% vs 19.4%±7.1%, P=0.913 and 7.7±3.9% vs 9.7±5.3%, P= 0.667). Higher rates of post-relapse grade II-IV and III-IV acute GvHD (aGvHD) were observed in HID transplantation patients. A higher cumulative incidence of post-relapse extensive chronic GvHD was also observed for HID transplantation patients. Multivariate analyses confirmed that treatment including donor lymphocyte infusion (DLI), late relapse >1 year, and in first CR at transplantation were associated with superior PRS (P=0.012, hazard ratio (HR)=0.527 (0.320-0.866)); P=0.033, HR=0.534 (0.300-0.952) and P=0.046, HR=0.630 (0.400-0.992). The data suggest that post-relapse outcomes are comparable in HID and MRD transplantation, and that DLI is safe for relapsed patients after haploidentical transplantation.

Drought Effects on Riparian Vegetation in the Santa Clara River Basin Using Airborne Imaging Spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schmidt, C.; Miller, D.; Roberts, D. A.

2017-12-01

Riparian forests are groundwater-dependent ecosystems that are highly sensitive to changes in the water table. As climate change continues, droughts are likely to become more frequent and severe in Southern California, threatening the persistence of these ecosystems. From 2012 to 2017, California experienced the most severe drought in the past century, providing a case study to assess drought impacts. Using imagery collected by the Airborne Visible/Infrared Imaging Spectrometer (AVIRIS) from 2013 and 2016, we evaluated changes in riparian forest health in a central section of the Santa Clara River Basin, a multi-use river located just north of Los Angeles. We used Constrained Reference Endmember Selection (CRES) to select reference endmembers of green vegetation (GV), non-photosynthetic vegetation (NPV), and rock/soil. We used spectral mixture analysis to estimate endmember fractions. We assessed changes in green vegetation cover and canopy water content at key monitoring sites based on the Relative GV Fraction, the Normalized Difference Water Index, and the Water Band Index. Preliminary results showed a decrease in the GV fraction and an increase in the NPV fraction, indicating an overall decline in riparian forest health as a result of drought. Our results demonstrate the spatial extent of drought effects in groundwater dependent ecosystems.

A prospective randomized study comparing two commercially available types of human embryo culture media: G1-PLUS™/G2-PLUS™ sequential medium (Vitrolife) and the GL BLAST™ sole medium (Ingamed).

PubMed

Ceschin, Ianae I; Ribas, Mariana H; Ceschin, Alvaro P; Nishikawa, Lucileine; Rocha, Claudia C; Pic-Taylor, Aline; Baroneza, José Eduardo

2016-03-01

To check the efficacy of two types of commercially available embryo culture medium: G1-PLUS™/G2-PLUS™ sequential (Vitrolife, Gothenburg, Sweden) and GV BLAST™ sole (Ingamed, Maringá, Brazil) with regards to fertilization, cleavage, blastocyst and pregnancy rates. Prospective and randomized study conducted from March to July 2015, using the medical records of 60 patients submitted to Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection techniques (ICSI). Data regarding the age of patients, together with fertilization, cleavage, blastocyst and pregnancy rates, were collected and compared in relation to the: G1-PLUS™/G2-PLUS™ sequential and GV BLAST™ sole mediums. The data were tabulated and compared using the Pearson's Chi-Square test (95% CI). There was no significant difference when comparing patients divided into higher and lower fertility age. No significant statistical difference was noted between the fertilization rates (P=0.59), cleavage (P=0.91), evolution to blastocyst (P=0.33) and total pregnancy (P=0.83) when comparing the embryos cultured in the different media analysed. We conclude that the G1-PLUS™/G2-PLUS™ sequential and GV BLAST™ sole mediums are equally effective with regards to fertilization, cleavage, blastocyst development and total pregnancy rates.

First complete genome sequences of genogroup V, genotype 3 porcine sapoviruses: common 5'-terminal genomic feature of sapoviruses.

PubMed

Oka, Tomoichiro; Doan, Yen Hai; Shimoike, Takashi; Haga, Kei; Takizawa, Takenori

2017-12-01

Sapoviruses (SaVs) are enteric viruses and have been detected in various mammals. They are divided into multiple genogroups and genotypes based on the entire major capsid protein (VP1) encoding region sequences. In this study, we determined the first complete genome sequences of two genogroup V, genotype 3 (GV.3) SaV strains detected from swine fecal samples, in combination with Illumina MiSeq sequencing of the libraries prepared from viral RNA and PCR products. The lengths of the viral genome (7494 nucleotides [nt] excluding polyA tail) and short 5'-untranslated region (14 nt) as well as two predicted open reading frames are similar to those of other SaVs. The amino acid differences between the two porcine SaVs are most frequent in the central region of the VP1-encoding region. A stem-loop structure which was predicted in the first 41 nt of the 5'-terminal region of GV.3 SaVs and the other available complete genome sequences of SaVs may have a critical role in viral genome replication. Our study provides complete genome sequences of rarely reported GV.3 SaV strains and highlights the common 5'-terminal genomic feature of SaVs detected from different mammalian species.

Polymorphism in the interleukin-7 receptor-alpha and outcome after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation with matched unrelated donor.

PubMed

Shamim, Z; Spellman, S; Haagenson, M; Wang, T; Lee, S J; Ryder, L P; Müller, K

2013-08-01

Interleukin-7 (IL-7) is essential for T cell development in the thymus and maintenance of peripheral T cells. The α-chain of the IL-7R is polymorphic with the existence of SNPs that give rise to non-synonymous amino acid substitutions. We previously found an association between donor genotypes and increased treatment-related mortality (TRM) (rs1494555G) and acute graft versus host disease (aGvHD) (rs1494555G and rs1494558T) after hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). Some studies have confirmed an association between rs6897932C and multiple sclerosis. In this study, we evaluated the prognostic significance of IL-7Rα SNP genotypes in 590-recipient/donor pairs that received HLA-matched unrelated donor HCT for haematological malignancies. Consistent with the primary studies, the rs1494555GG and rs1494558TT genotypes of the donor were associated with aGvHD and chronic GvHD in the univariate analysis. The Tallele of rs6897932 was suggestive of an association with increased frequency of relapse by univariate analysis (P = 0.017) and multivariate analysis (P = 0.015). In conclusion, this study provides further evidence of a role of the IL-7 pathway and IL-7Rα SNPs in HCT. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Locating the Acupoint Baihui (GV20) Beneath the Cerebral Cortex with MRI Reconstructed 3D Neuroimages.

PubMed

Shen, Ein-Yiao; Chen, Fun-Jou; Chen, Yun-Yin; Lin, Ming-Fan

2011-01-01

Baihui (GV20) is one of the most important acupoints of the Du meridian (the government vessel) and is commonly used in neurology and psychiatry and as a distal point of anorectal disorders by general practitioners. The anatomical relationship between the scalp region of the acupoint and the underlying corresponding cortex remains obscure. In this study, we first prepared the indicator for MRI scanning on a GE 1.5 T excite machine in a mode suitable for 3D reconstruction. The 3D Avizo software system (version 6.0, Mercury Computer Systems, Inc., Germany) was then used for image processing and the resulting data subsequently analyzed using descriptive statistics and analysis of variance (ANOVA). The mean distance from the Baihui anterior to the central sulcus in the adult group was greater than that in the child group (22.7 ± 2.2 and 19.7 ± 2.2 mm, resp., P = .042), whereas in the child group the distance between the Baihui anterior and the precentral sulcus was greater than in the adult group (6.8 ± 0.8 and 3.8 ± 0.8 mm, resp., P < .001). This MRI presentation demonstrates that the location of Baihui (GV20) can be identified using the distance from the central or precentral sulcus.

Long-term outcome after haploidentical stem cell transplant and infusion of T cells expressing the inducible caspase 9 safety transgene

PubMed Central

Zhou, Xiaoou; Di Stasi, Antonio; Tey, Siok-Keen; Krance, Robert A.; Martinez, Caridad; Leung, Kathryn S.; Durett, April G.; Wu, Meng-Fen; Liu, Hao; Leen, Ann M.; Savoldo, Barbara; Lin, Yu-Feng; Grilley, Bambi J.; Gee, Adrian P.; Spencer, David M.; Rooney, Cliona M.; Heslop, Helen E.; Brenner, Malcolm K.

2014-01-01

Adoptive transfer of donor-derived T lymphocytes expressing a safety switch may promote immune reconstitution in patients undergoing haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplant (haplo-HSCT) without the risk for uncontrolled graft versus host disease (GvHD). Thus, patients who develop GvHD after infusion of allodepleted donor-derived T cells expressing an inducible human caspase 9 (iC9) had their disease effectively controlled by a single administration of a small-molecule drug (AP1903) that dimerizes and activates the iC9 transgene. We now report the long-term follow-up of 10 patients infused with such safety switch-modified T cells. We find long-term persistence of iC9-modified (iC9-T) T cells in vivo in the absence of emerging oligoclonality and a robust immunologic benefit, mediated initially by the infused cells themselves and subsequently by an apparently accelerated reconstitution of endogenous naive T lymphocytes. As a consequence, these patients have immediate and sustained protection from major pathogens, including cytomegalovirus, adenovirus, BK virus, and Epstein-Barr virus in the absence of acute or chronic GvHD, supporting the beneficial effects of this approach to immune reconstitution after haplo-HSCT. This study was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT00710892. PMID:24753538

Evaluation of food-drug interaction of guava leaf tea.

PubMed

Kaneko, Kimiyuki; Suzuki, Katsuya; Iwadate-Iwata, Emi; Kato, Ikuo; Uchida, Kazumi; Onoue, Masaharu

2013-02-01

Guava leaf tea (GLT) contains guava leaf polyphenol (Gvpp), which regulates the absorption of dietary carbohydrate from the intestines. Borderline diabetics, who are at high risk of development of diabetes, take GLT to suppress a rapid increase of blood sugar level after meals. However, patients with diabetes in whom diabetic drugs or warfarin as a blood thinner are prescribed also take GLT with the expectation of glycemic control. Therefore, we studied whether GLT had potential for inhibition or induction of cytochrome P450 (CYP) and an influence on the action of warfarin. Extract of guava leaf (GvEx) consists of carbohydrate and polyphenols, which are Gvpp, quercetin, and ellagic acid. These polyphenols, but not GvEx, showed a certain level of inhibition of human-cDNA-expressed CYPs. In a comparison of GLT and grapefruit juice, GLT showed weaker inhibition of CYP activities and of midazolam 1'-hydroxylation than grapefruit juice. Furthermore, neither liver weight nor CYP3A expression in the liver was changed in rats that received GvEx for 90 days compared with the control group. When rats were concomitantly treated with GLT and warfarin, the prolongation of clotting time of blood by warfarin was not influenced. These data suggest that GLT is unlikely to interact with drugs. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Immune reconstitution after haematopoietic cell transplantation in children: immunophenotype analysis with regard to factors affecting the speed of recovery.

PubMed

Kalwak, Krzysztof; Gorczyńska, Ewa; Toporski, Jacek; Turkiewicz, Dominik; Slociak, Malgorzata; Ussowicz, Marek; Latos-Grazyńska, Elzbieta; Król, Marzena; Boguslawska-Jaworska, Janina; Chybicka, Alicja

2002-07-01

Immune reconstitution was studied prospectively in 66 children who underwent 77 haematopoietic cell transplantations (HCT): 46 autologous HCTs in 39 patients and 31 allogeneic HCTs in 27 patients. We studied the dynamic analysis of immune recovery with regard to potential factors affecting its speed, including age, type of HCT, diagnosis, graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) and cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection reactivation. Absolute counts of different lymphocyte subsets and immunoglobulin serum levels were determined in peripheral blood of patients on d -7 and +16, and then at various intervals up to 24 months post transplant. Common patterns of immune recovery after both allogeneic and autologous HCT were identified: (i) CD4+CD45RO+ peripheral T-cell expansion on d +16; (ii) inverted CD4+:CD8+ ratio from d +30 onwards; (iii) rapid natural killer (NK) cell (CD16+/-CD56+) count normalization. We observed prolonged T-cell lymphopenia (CD3+, CD3+CD4+, CD4+CD45RA+) until 24 months after autologous HCT, whereas in the allogeneic setting CD3+CD4+ cells, including naive CD45RA+ cells, returned to normal values at 9 months post transplant. Age > 10 years and coexistence of GvHD and CMV reactivation were associated with a substantial delay in T- (CD4+, including CD45RA+) and B-cell recovery after allogeneic HCT. Multidrug GvHD prophylaxis resulted in impaired T- (CD4+, CD4+CD45RA+) and B-cell reconstitution only in the early phase after allogeneic HCT (up to 4 months). Our results demonstrated that T-cell recovery was severely impaired in children after autologous HCT. It should be emphasized that specific approaches to enhance immune reconstitution are necessary to control minimal residual disease and avoid the risk of infectious complications in the autologous setting. Thymic involution after allogeneic HCT seems to be associated with age and coexistence of GvHD and CMV reactivation.

Novel rod-shaped viruses isolated from garlic, Allium sativum, possessing a unique genome organization.

PubMed

Sumi, S; Tsuneyoshi, T; Furutani, H

1993-09-01

Rod-shaped flexuous viruses were partially purified from garlic plants (Allium sativum) showing typical mosaic symptoms. The genome was shown to be composed of RNA with a poly(A) tail of an estimated size of 10 kb as shown by denaturing agarose gel electrophoresis. We constructed cDNA libraries and screened four independent clones, which were designated GV-A, GV-B, GV-C and GV-D, using Northern and Southern blot hybridization. Nucleotide sequence determination of the cDNAs, two of which correspond to nearly one-third of the virus genomic RNA, shows that all of these viruses possess an identical genomic structure and that also at least four proteins are encoded in the viral cDNA, their M(r)s being estimated to be 15K, 27K, 40K and 11K. The 15K open reading frame (ORF) encodes the core-like sequence of a zinc finger protein preceded by a cluster of basic amino acid residues. The 27K ORF probably encodes the viral coat protein (CP), based on both the existence of some conserved sequences observed in many other rod-shaped or flexuous virus CPs and an overall amino acid sequence similarity to potexvirus and carlavirus CPs. The 11K ORF shows significant amino acid sequence similarities to the corresponding 12K proteins of the potexviruses and carlaviruses. On the other hand, the 40K ORF product does not resemble any other plant virus gene products reported so far. The genomic organization in the 3' region of the garlic viruses resembles, but clearly differs from, that of carlaviruses. Phylogenetic analysis based upon the amino acid sequence of the viral capsid protein also indicates that the garlic viruses have a unique and distinct domain different from those of the potexvirus and carlavirus groups. The results suggest that the garlic viruses described here belong to an unclassified and new virus group closely related to the carlaviruses.

A Polyphasic and Taxogenomic Evaluation Uncovers Arcobacter cryaerophilus as a Species Complex That Embraces Four Genomovars

PubMed Central

Pérez-Cataluña, Alba; Collado, Luis; Salgado, Oscar; Lefiñanco, Violeta; Figueras, María J.

2018-01-01

The species Arcobacter cryaerophilus is found in many food products of animal origin and is the dominating species in wastewater. In addition, it is associated with cases of farm animal and human infectious diseases,. The species embraces two subgroups i.e., 1A (LMG 24291T = LMG 9904T) and 1B (LMG 10829) that can be differentiated by their 16S rRNA-RFLP pattern. However, some authors, on the basis of the shared intermediate levels of DNA-DNA hybridization, have suggested abandoning the subgroup classification. This contradiction indicates that the taxonomy of this species is not yet resolved. The objective of the present study was to perform a taxonomic evaluation of the diversity of A. cryaerophilus. Genomic information was used along with a Multilocus Phylogenetic Analysis (MLPA) and phenotypic characterization on a group of 52 temporally and geographically dispersed strains, coming from different types of samples and hosts from nine countries. The MLPA analysis showed that those strains formed four clusters (I–IV). Values of Average Nucleotide Identity (ANI) and in silico DNA-DNA Hybridization (isDDH) obtained between 13 genomes representing strains of the four clusters were below the proposed cut-offs of 96 and 70%, respectively, confirming that each of the clusters represented a different genomic species. However, none of the evaluated phenotypic tests enabled their unequivocal differentiation into species. Therefore, the genomic delimited clusters should be considered genomovars of the species A. cryaerophilus. These genomovars could have different clinical importance, since only the cluster I included strains isolated from human specimens. The discovery of at least one stable distinctive phenotypic character would be needed to define each cluster or genomovar as a different species. Until then, we propose naming them “A. cryaerophilus gv. pseudocryaerophilus” (Cluster I = LMG 10229T), “A. cryaerophilus gv. crypticus” (Cluster II = LMG 9065T), “A. cryaerophilus gv. cryaerophilus” (Cluster III = LMG 24291T) and “A. cryaerophilus gv. occultus” (Cluster IV = LMG 29976T).

PBSCT is associated with poorer survival and increased chronic GvHD than BMT in Japanese paediatric patients with acute leukaemia and an HLA-matched sibling donor.

PubMed

Shinzato, Aki; Tabuchi, Ken; Atsuta, Yoshiko; Inoue, Masami; Inagaki, Jiro; Yabe, Hiromasa; Koh, Katsuyoshi; Kato, Koji; Ohta, Hideaki; Kigasawa, Hisato; Kitoh, Toshiyuki; Ogawa, Atsushi; Takahashi, Yoshiyuki; Sasahara, Yoji; Kato, Shun-Ichi; Adachi, Souichi

2013-09-01

Peripheral blood stem cells (PBSC) may be used as an alternative to bone marrow (BM) for allogeneic transplantation. Since peripheral blood stem cell bank from unrelated volunteer donor has been started in Japan, use of PBSC allografts may be increased. Therefore we surveyed the outcomes of Japanese leukemia children after PBSC and BM transplantation. This retrospective study compared the outcomes of 661 children (0-18 years) with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) or acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) who received their first allogeneic peripheral blood stem cell transplantation (PBSCT; n = 90) or bone marrow transplantation (BMT; n = 571) from HLA-matched siblings between January 1996 and December 2007. Neutrophil recovery was faster after PBSCT than after BMT (ALL: P < 0.0001; AML: P = 0.0002), as was platelet recovery (ALL: P = 0.0008; AML: P = 0.0848). However, the cumulative incidence of chronic graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) was higher after PBSCT than after BMT (ALL: 26.0% vs. 9.9%, P = 0.0066; AML: 41.6% vs. 11.1%, P < 0.0001). The 5-year disease-free survival (DFS) was lower after PBSCT than after BMT for ALL (40.6% vs. 57.1%, P = 0.0257). The 5-year overall survival (OS) was lower after PBSCT than after BMT for ALL (42.4% vs. 63.7%, P = 0.0032) and AML (49.8% vs. 71.8%, P = 0.0163). Multivariate analysis revealed the use of PBSC was a significant risk factor for DFS and OS. PBSCT and BMT did not differ in relapse rate, acute GvHD for ALL and AML, or in DFS for AML. PBSC allografts in Japanese children engraft faster but are associated with poorer survival and increased chronic GvHD. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Improved Survival After Transplantation of More Donor Plasmacytoid Dendritic or Naïve T Cells From Unrelated-Donor Marrow Grafts: Results From BMTCTN 0201

PubMed Central

Waller, Edmund K.; Logan, Brent R.; Harris, Wayne A.C.; Devine, Steven M.; Porter, David L.; Mineishi, Shin; McCarty, John M.; Gonzalez, Corina E.; Spitzer, Thomas R.; Krijanovski, Oleg I.; Linenberger, Michael L.; Woolfrey, Ann; Howard, Alan; Wu, Juan; Confer, Dennis L.; Anasetti, Claudio

2014-01-01

Purpose To characterize relationships between specific immune cell subsets in bone marrow (BM) or granulocyte colony-stimulating factor–mobilized peripheral blood (PB) stem cells collected from unrelated donors and clinical outcomes of patients undergoing transplantation in BMTCTN 0201. Patients and Methods Fresh aliquots of 161 BM and 147 PB stem-cell allografts from North American donors randomly assigned to donate BM or PB stem cells and numbers of transplanted cells were correlated with overall survival (OS), relapse, and graft-versus-host disease (GvHD). Results Patients with evaluable grafts were similar to all BMTCTN 0201 patients. The numbers of plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) and naïve T cells (Tns) in BM allografts were independently associated with OS in multivariable analyses including recipient and donor characteristics, such as human leukocyte antigen mismatch, age, and use of antithymocyte globulin. BM recipients of > median number of pDCs, naïve CD8+ T cells (CD8Tns), or naïve CD4+ T cells (CD4Tns) had better 3-year OS (pDCs, 56% v 35%; P = .025; CD8Tns, 56% v 37%; P = .012; CD4Tns, 55% v 37%; P = .009). Transplantation of more BM Tns was associated with less grade 3 to 4 acute GvHD but similar rates of relapse. Transplantation of more BM pDCs was associated with fewer deaths resulting from GvHD or from graft rejection. Analysis of PB grafts did not identify a donor cell subset significantly associated with OS, relapse, or GvHD. Conclusion Donor immune cells in BM but not PB stem-cell grafts were associated with survival after unrelated-donor allogeneic hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation. The biologic activity of donor immune cells in allogeneic transplantation varied between graft sources. Donor grafts with more BM-derived Tns and pDCs favorably regulated post-transplantation immunity in allogeneic hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation. PMID:24982459

Improved survival after transplantation of more donor plasmacytoid dendritic or naïve T cells from unrelated-donor marrow grafts: results from BMTCTN 0201.

PubMed

Waller, Edmund K; Logan, Brent R; Harris, Wayne A C; Devine, Steven M; Porter, David L; Mineishi, Shin; McCarty, John M; Gonzalez, Corina E; Spitzer, Thomas R; Krijanovski, Oleg I; Linenberger, Michael L; Woolfrey, Ann; Howard, Alan; Wu, Juan; Confer, Dennis L; Anasetti, Claudio

2014-08-01

To characterize relationships between specific immune cell subsets in bone marrow (BM) or granulocyte colony-stimulating factor-mobilized peripheral blood (PB) stem cells collected from unrelated donors and clinical outcomes of patients undergoing transplantation in BMTCTN 0201. Fresh aliquots of 161 BM and 147 PB stem-cell allografts from North American donors randomly assigned to donate BM or PB stem cells and numbers of transplanted cells were correlated with overall survival (OS), relapse, and graft-versus-host disease (GvHD). Patients with evaluable grafts were similar to all BMTCTN 0201 patients. The numbers of plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) and naïve T cells (Tns) in BM allografts were independently associated with OS in multivariable analyses including recipient and donor characteristics, such as human leukocyte antigen mismatch, age, and use of antithymocyte globulin. BM recipients of > median number of pDCs, naïve CD8(+) T cells (CD8Tns), or naïve CD4(+) T cells (CD4Tns) had better 3-year OS (pDCs, 56% v 35%; P = .025; CD8Tns, 56% v 37%; P = .012; CD4Tns, 55% v 37%; P = .009). Transplantation of more BM Tns was associated with less grade 3 to 4 acute GvHD but similar rates of relapse. Transplantation of more BM pDCs was associated with fewer deaths resulting from GvHD or from graft rejection. Analysis of PB grafts did not identify a donor cell subset significantly associated with OS, relapse, or GvHD. Donor immune cells in BM but not PB stem-cell grafts were associated with survival after unrelated-donor allogeneic hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation. The biologic activity of donor immune cells in allogeneic transplantation varied between graft sources. Donor grafts with more BM-derived Tns and pDCs favorably regulated post-transplantation immunity in allogeneic hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation. © 2014 by American Society of Clinical Oncology.

Portal response related to shunt occlusion by balloon-occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration may determine the prognosis of cirrhosis.

PubMed

Kobayashi, Kazufumi; Maruyama, Hitoshi; Kiyono, Soichiro; Sekimoto, Tadashi; Kondo, Takayuki; Shimada, Taro; Takahashi, Masanori; Okugawa, Hidehiro; Yokosuka, Osamu

2016-12-01

To determine the prognostic effect of portal hemodynamic responses after balloon-occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration (B-RTO) for gastric varices (GV) in cirrhosis patients. This retrospective study consisted of 37 cirrhosis patients (aged 62.5 ± 9.7 years) with medium- or large-grade GV treated with B-RTO. Portal hemodynamic response was assessed by the changes in flow volume in the portal trunk (PFV, mL/min) before and after the treatment. Group I showed increased PFV and group II showed no increase in PFV. The median observation period was 49.8 months (range, 4.7-150.3 months). All patients showed complete embolization of GV without any recurrence. There were 30 patients in group I and 7 patients in group II (decreased PFV in 6 and unchanged PFV in 1). The PFV at baseline was significantly lower in the former (583.5 ± 232.0 mL/min) than in the latter (880.7 ± 345.9 mL/min; P = 0.009). The survival rate was significantly lower in group II (83.3% at 1 year and 66.7% at 3 years) than in group I (96.7% at 1 year, 81.5% at 3 years, and 61.8% at 5 years; P = 0.012). The incidence of deterioration of the esophageal varices was 18/30 (60%) in group I and 5/7 (71.4%; P = 0.687) in group II. Multivariate analysis identified only no increase in portal response (hazard ratio, 8.086; P = 0.005) as an independent factor for poor prognosis. Balloon-occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration for GV may result in a poor prognosis when portal hemodynamics shows no increase in portal response. © 2016 The Japan Society of Hepatology.

Risk factors and outcomes of cytomegalovirus viremia in pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplantation patients.

PubMed

Wu, Jhong-Lin; Ma, Hsuan-Yin; Lu, Chun-Yi; Chen, Jong-Min; Lee, Ping-Ing; Jou, Shiann-Tarng; Yang, Yung-Lin; Chang, Hsiu-Hao; Lu, Meng-Yao; Chang, Luan-Ying; Huang, Li-Min

2017-06-01

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a major pathogen causing significant mortality and morbidity in immunocompromised hosts. It is important to find risk factors associated with CMV viremia and its outcome. We investigated the incidence, time of onset, risk factors for CMV viremia, and characteristics of CMV diseases in 57 pediatric patients receiving hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Between August 2011 and March 2014, cases of pediatric HSCT patients at the National Taiwan University Children's Hospital were reviewed. Viremia was identified by plasma CMV real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay. Eighteen (32%) of the 57 patients developed CMV viremia at a median of 23 days post-HSCT (range -3 to +721 days). Eighty-nine percent (16/18) of CMV viremia occurred within 100 days posttransplantation. Four patients finally had CMV diseases (1 with CMV colitis and 3 with CMV pneumonitis) and one patient died of CMV pneumonitis complicated with pulmonary hemorrhage and sepsis. Significant risk factors associated with CMV viremia via univariate analysis include older age (p = 0.03), leukemic patients [odds ratio (OR): 5.2, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.52∼17.7, p = 0.008), allogeneic HSCT (OR: 14.57, 95% CI: 1.76∼120.5, p = 0.002), antithymoglobulin (ATG) use before transplantation (OR: 5.09, 95% CI: 1.52∼16.9, p = 0.007), graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) (OR: 10.1, 95% CI: 2.7∼38.7, p < 0.001), and gastrointestinal GvHD (OR: 10.9, 95% CI: 2.72∼43.9, p = 0.001). In pediatric posttransplantation patients, CMV viremia mostly occurred within 100 days after transplantation. Risk factors associated with CMV viremia include older diagnostic age, leukemic patients, unrelated donor HSCT, pretransplant ATG use, GvHD, and gastrointestinal GvHD. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Effects of culture media and energy sources on the inhibition of nuclear maturation in bovine oocytes.

PubMed

Bilodeau-Goeseels, Sylvie

2006-07-15

The influence of the culture medium and energy sources on spontaneous nuclear maturation and inhibition of maturation in bovine cumulus-enclosed oocytes (CEO) was examined. CEO were cultured in Medium 199, minimum essential medium, M16, or synthetic oviduct fluid (SOF), all containing 3 mg/mL bovine serum albumin (BSA), and SOF without BSA, alone or supplemented with hypoxanthine (HYPO, 4 mM) or forskolin (FSK, 100 microM) for 21 h. More CEO remained at the GV stage in M16 compared to other media (P < 0.05). Supplementation with HYPO increased and FSK reduced the percentage of CEO remaining at the GV stage (P < 0.05) only in M16. The effects of energy sources, in the absence or presence of HYPO or FSK, were examined in CEO cultured in M16 salts+PVA. Glucose (0.5 and 5.5 mM), pyruvate (0.32 and 3.2 mM), lactate (3.3 mM) and glutamine (1.3 mM) significantly reduced the percentage of CEO remaining at the GV stage compared to M16 salts alone; only glutamine significantly increased the percentage of CEO at the MII stage compared to M16 salts. In M16 salts+HYPO, glucose (0.5 mM), pyruvate (0.32 mM), lactate (3.3 mM) and glutamine (1.3 mM) significantly reduced the percentage of GV and degenerate oocytes and increased the percentage of CEO at the MI stage. In M16 salts+FSK, the energy sources significantly decreased the percentage of oocytes with condensed chromosomes and increased the percentage of CEO reaching metaphase I. In conclusion, meiotic inhibitors had different effects in different culture media and glucose, pyruvate, lactate and glutamine were stimulatory to nuclear maturation. It was noteworthy that some of the results obtained were contrary to previous findings in mouse oocytes.

Relationship between glycaemic variability and hyperglycaemic clamp-derived functional variables in (impending) type 1 diabetes.

PubMed

Van Dalem, Annelien; Demeester, Simke; Balti, Eric V; Decochez, Katelijn; Weets, Ilse; Vandemeulebroucke, Evy; Van de Velde, Ursule; Walgraeve, An; Seret, Nicole; De Block, Christophe; Ruige, Johannes; Gillard, Pieter; Keymeulen, Bart; Pipeleers, Daniel G; Gorus, Frans K

2015-12-01

We examined whether measures of glycaemic variability (GV), assessed by continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG), can complement or replace measures of beta cell function and insulin action in detecting the progression of preclinical disease to type 1 diabetes. Twenty-two autoantibody-positive (autoAb(+)) first-degree relatives (FDRs) of patients with type 1 diabetes who were themselves at high 5-year risk (50%) for type 1 diabetes underwent CGM, a hyperglycaemic clamp test and OGTT, and were followed for up to 31 months. Clamp variables were used to estimate beta cell function (first-phase [AUC5-10 min] and second-phase [AUC120-150 min] C-peptide release) combined with insulin resistance (glucose disposal rate; M 120-150 min). Age-matched healthy volunteers (n = 20) and individuals with recent-onset type 1 diabetes (n = 9) served as control groups. In autoAb(+) FDRs, M 120-150 min below the 10th percentile (P10) of controls achieved 86% diagnostic efficiency in discriminating between normoglycaemic FDRs and individuals with (impending) dysglycaemia. M 120-150 min outperformed AUC5-10 min and AUC120-150 min C-peptide below P10 of controls, which were only 59-68% effective. Among GV variables, CGM above the reference range was better at detecting (impending) dysglycaemia than elevated SMBG (77-82% vs 73% efficiency). Combined CGM measures were equally efficient as M 120-150 min (86%). Daytime GV variables were inversely correlated with clamp variables, and more strongly with M 120-150 min than with AUC5-10 min or AUC120-150 min C-peptide. CGM-derived GV and the glucose disposal rate, reflecting both insulin secretion and action, outperformed SMBG and first- or second-phase AUC C-peptide in identifying FDRs with (impending) dysglycaemia or diabetes. Our results indicate the feasibility of developing minimally invasive CGM-based criteria for close metabolic monitoring and as outcome measures in trials.

Hypothyroidism following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for acute myeloid leukemia.

PubMed

Medinger, Michael; Zeiter, Deborah; Heim, Dominik; Halter, Jörg; Gerull, Sabine; Tichelli, André; Passweg, Jakob; Nigro, Nicole

2017-07-01

Hypothyroidism may complicate allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT); we therefore analyzed risk factors in this study. We studied 229 patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) who underwent an allo-HSCT between 2003 and 2013 with different conditioning regimens (myeloablative, reduced-intensity, chemotherapy-based, or total body irradiation-based). Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and free thyroxine levels (fT4) were available in 104 patients before and after allo-HSCT. The median age at transplantation (n=104) was 47 (IQR 40-59)], 37 (35.6%) patients were female, and the overall mortality was 34.6% (n=36). After a median follow-up period of 47 (IQR 25-84) months, overt hypothyroidism (basal TSH>4.49mIU/l, FT4<11.6pmol/l) was observed in 4 patients (3.8%) and subclinical hypothyroidism (basal TSH>4.49mIU/l, normal fT4) was observed in 20 patients (19.2%). Positive thyroperoxidase (TPO) antibodies were found in 5 (4.8%) patients. A total of 13 patients (12.5%) were treated with thyroid hormone replacement. Acute graft-versus-host disease (aGvHD) ≥grade 2 occurred in 55 (52.9%) and chronic GvHD (cGvHD) in 74 (71.2%) of the patients. The risk of developing hypothyroidism was higher in the patients with repeated allo-HSCTs (P=0.024) and with positive TPO antibodies (P=0.045). Furthermore, the development of overt hypothyroidism was inversely proportional to age (P=0.043). No correlation was found with GvHD, HLA-mismatch, total body irradiation, and gender. After allo-HSCT, a significant number of patients experience thyroid dysfunction, including subclinical and overt hypothyroidism. Long-term and continuous follow-up for thyroid function after HSCT is important to provide timely and appropriate treatment. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Acoustic Behavior of Halobacterium salinarum Gas Vesicles in the High-Frequency Range: Experiments and Modeling.

PubMed

Cherin, Emmanuel; Melis, Johan M; Bourdeau, Raymond W; Yin, Melissa; Kochmann, Dennis M; Foster, F Stuart; Shapiro, Mikhail G

2017-05-01

Gas vesicles (GVs) are a new and unique class of biologically derived ultrasound contrast agents with sub-micron size whose acoustic properties have not been fully elucidated. In this study, we investigated the acoustic collapse pressure and behavior of Halobacterium salinarum gas vesicles at transmit center frequencies ranging from 12.5 to 27.5 MHz. The acoustic collapse pressure was found to be above 550 kPa at all frequencies, nine-fold higher than the critical pressure observed under hydrostatic conditions. We illustrate that gas vesicles behave non-linearly when exposed to ultrasound at incident pressure ranging from 160 kPa to the collapse pressure and generate second harmonic amplitudes of -2 to -6 dB below the fundamental in media with viscosities ranging from 0.89 to 8 mPa·s. Simulations performed using a Rayleigh-Plesset-type model accounting for buckling and a dynamic finite-element analysis suggest that buckling is the mechanism behind the generation of harmonics. We found good agreement between the level of second harmonic relative to the fundamental measured at 20 MHz and the Rayleigh-Plesset model predictions. Finite-element simulations extended these findings to a non-spherical geometry, confirmed that the acoustic buckling pressure corresponds to the critical pressure under hydrostatic conditions and support the hypothesis of limited gas flow across the GV shell during the compression phase in the frequency range investigated. From simulations, estimates of GV bandwidth-limited scattering indicate that a single GV has a scattering cross section comparable to that of a red blood cell. These findings will inform the development of GV-based contrast agents and pulse sequences to optimize their detection with ultrasound. Copyright © 2017 World Federation for Ultrasound in Medicine & Biology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effects of soy isoflavones on the concentration of hyaluronic acid in the vagina of type 1 diabetic rats.

PubMed

F Carbonel, A A; Azevedo Lima, P D; Lim, J J; Teixeira Borges, F; Rodrigues da Silva Sasso, G; Portugal Fuchs, L F; S Simões, R; Chada Baracat, E; Soares, J M; J Simões, M

2017-12-01

To assess the effects of isoflavones and 17β-estradiol on the vaginal epithelium extracellular matrix and hyaluronic acid (HA) in the diabetic rat model. Sixty adult, virgin, female rats underwent ovariectomy, then randomization into six groups of ten animals each: GI, sham ovariectomized control animals; GII, sham ovariectomized control diabetic animals; GIII, control ovariectomized rats receiving propylene glycol vehicle; GIV, control ovariectomized diabetic animals receiving propylene glycol vehicle; GV, diabetic ovariectomized animals treated with soy isoflavones (150 mg/kg by gavage); GVI, ovariectomized diabetic rats treated with estrogen (17β-estradiol, 10 mg/kg, subcutaneously). Treatment took place over 30 consecutive days. After euthanasia, a portion of the vagina was immersed in liquid nitrogen for RT-qPCR and Western blotting. Another portion was processed for paraffin embedding. Sections were stained with hematoxylin & eosin for histomorphometry and Picro Sirius Red for collagen quantification. Vaginal epithelium histomorphometry in GIII (15.3 ± 1.1 µm) and GIV (14.5 ± 1.8 µm) was thinner than in GV (41.3 ± 1.5 µm) and GVI (74.3 ± 1.6 µm). There was an increase in collagen content in GV (84.1 ± 1.2 µm) and GVI (88.2 ± 1.7 µm). HA quantification was higher in GV (0.38 ± 1.1 μg/mg) and GVI (0.49 ± 1.4 μg/mg) when compared with GIII (0.12 ± 1.1 μg/mg) and GIV (0.10 ± 1.2 μg/mg), p < 0.05. Soy isoflavones increase hyaluronic acid concentration in the vagina of diabetic ovariectomized rats. Such findings might help to attenuate the effects of vulvovaginal atrophy in women.

Optimal model of PDIG based microgrid and design of complementary stabilizer using ICA.

PubMed

Amini, R Mohammad; Safari, A; Ravadanegh, S Najafi

2016-09-01

The generalized Heffron-Phillips model (GHPM) for a microgrid containing a photovoltaic (PV)-diesel machine (DM)-induction motor (IM)-governor (GV) (PDIG) has been developed at the low voltage level. A GHPM is calculated by linearization method about a loading condition. An effective Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) approach for PV network has been done using sliding mode control (SMC) to maximize output power. Additionally, to improve stability of microgrid for more penetration of renewable energy resources with nonlinear load, a complementary stabilizer has been presented. Imperialist competitive algorithm (ICA) is utilized to design of gains for the complementary stabilizer with the multiobjective function. The stability analysis of the PDIG system has been completed with eigenvalues analysis and nonlinear simulations. Robustness and validity of the proposed controllers on damping of electromechanical modes examine through time domain simulation under input mechanical torque disturbances. Copyright © 2016 ISA. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Multiple continuous coverage of the earth based on multi-satellite systems with linear structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saulskiy, V. K.

2009-04-01

A new and wider definition is given to multi-satellite systems with linear structure (SLS), and efficiency of their application to multiple continuous coverage of the Earth is substantiated. Owing to this widening, SLS have incorporated already well-recognized “polar systems” by L. Rider and W.S. Adams, “kinematically regular systems” by G.V. Mozhaev, and “delta-systems” by J.G. Walker, as well as “near-polar systems” by Yu.P. Ulybyshev, and some other satellite constellations unknown before. A universal method of SLS optimization is presented, valid for any values of coverage multiplicity and the number of satellites in a system. The method uses the criterion of minimum radius of a circle seen from a satellite on the surface of the globe. Among the best SLS found in this way there are both systems representing the well-known classes mentioned above and new orbit constellations of satellites.

Spatiotemporal Dynamics and Epistatic Interaction Sites in Dengue Virus Type 1: A Comprehensive Sequence-Based Analysis

PubMed Central

Chu, Pei-Yu; Ke, Guan-Ming; Chen, Po-Chih; Liu, Li-Teh; Tsai, Yen-Chun; Tsai, Jih-Jin

2013-01-01

The continuing threat of dengue fever necessitates a comprehensive characterisation of its epidemiological trends. Phylogenetic and recombination events were reconstructed based on 100 worldwide dengue virus (DENV) type 1 genome sequences with an outgroup (prototypes of DENV2-4). The phylodynamic characteristics and site-specific variation were then analysed using data without the outgroup. Five genotypes (GI-GV) and a ladder-like structure with short terminal branch topology were observed in this study. Apparently, the transmission of DENV1 was geographically random before gradual localising with human activity as GI-GIII in South Asia, GIV in the South Pacific, and GV in the Americas. Genotypes IV and V have recently shown higher population densities compared to older genotypes. All codon regions and all tree branches were skewed toward a negative selection, which indicated that their variation was restricted by protein function. Notably, multi-epistatic interaction sites were found in both PrM 221 and NS3 1730. Recombination events accumulated in regions E, NS3-NS4A, and particularly in region NS5. The estimated coevolution pattern also highlights the need for further study of the biological role of protein PrM 221 and NS3 1730. The recent transmission of emergent GV sublineages into Central America and Europe mandates closely monitoring of genotype interaction and succession. PMID:24040199

Effective treatment of steroid and therapy-refractory acute graft-versus-host disease with a novel mesenchymal stromal cell product (MSC-FFM).

PubMed

Bader, Peter; Kuçi, Zyrafete; Bakhtiar, Shahrzad; Basu, Oliver; Bug, Gesine; Dennis, Michael; Greil, Johann; Barta, Aniko; Kállay, Krisztián M; Lang, Peter; Lucchini, Giovanna; Pol, Raj; Schulz, Ansgar; Sykora, Karl-Walter; von Luettichau, Irene; Herter-Sprie, Grit; Uddin, Mohammad Ashab; Jenkin, Phil; Alsultan, Abdulrahman; Buechner, Jochen; Stein, Jerry; Kelemen, Agnes; Jarisch, Andrea; Soerensen, Jan; Salzmann-Manrique, Emilia; Hutter, Martin; Schäfer, Richard; Seifried, Erhard; Klingebiel, Thomas; Bonig, Halvard; Kuçi, Selim

2018-01-29

The inability to generate mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) of consistent potency likely is responsible for inconsistent clinical outcomes of patients with aGvHD receiving MSC products. We developed a novel MSC manufacturing protocol characterized by high in vitro potency and near-identity of individual doses, referred to as "MSC-Frankfurt am Main (MSC-FFM)". Herein, we report outcomes of the 69 patients who have received MSC-FFM. These were 51 children and 18 adults with refractory aGvHD grade II (4%), III (36%) or IV (59%). Patients were refractory either to frontline therapy (steroids) (29%) or to steroids and 1-5 additional lines of immunosuppressants (71%) were given infusions in four weekly intervals. The day 28 overall response rate was 83%; at the last follow-up, 61% and 25% of patients were in complete or partial remission. The median follow-up was 8.1 months. Six-month estimate for cumulative incidence of non-relapse mortality was 27% (range, 16-38); leukemia relapse mortality was 2% (range, 0-5). This was associated with a superior six-month overall survival (OS) probability rate of 71% (range, 61-83), compared to the outcome of patients not treated with MSC-FFM. This novel product was effective in children and adults, suggesting that MSC-FFM represents a promising therapy for steroid refractory aGvHD.

The Activating NKG2C Receptor Is Significantly Reduced in NK Cells after Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation in Patients with Severe Graft-versus-Host Disease.

PubMed

Kordelas, Lambros; Steckel, Nina-Kristin; Horn, Peter A; Beelen, Dietrich W; Rebmann, Vera

2016-10-27

Natural killer (NK) cells play a central role in the innate immune system. In allogeneic stem cell transplantation (alloSCT), alloreactive NK cells derived by the graft are discussed to mediate the elimination of leukemic cells and dendritic cells in the patient and thereby to reduce the risk for leukemic relapses and graft-versus-host reactions. The alloreactivity of NK cells is determined by various receptors including the activating CD94/NKG2C and the inhibitory CD94/NKG2A receptors, which both recognize the non-classical human leukocyte antigen E (HLA-E). Here we analyze the contribution of these receptors to NK cell alloreactivity in 26 patients over the course of the first year after alloSCT due to acute myeloid leukemia, myelodysplastic syndrome and T cell Non-Hodgkin-Lymphoma. Our results show that NK cells expressing the activating CD94/NKG2C receptor are significantly reduced in patients after alloSCT with severe acute and chronic graft-versus-host disease (GvHD). Moreover, the ratio of CD94/NKG2C to CD94/NKG2A was reduced in patients with severe acute and chronic GvHD after receiving an HLA-mismatched graft. Collectively, these results provide evidence for the first time that CD94/NKG2C is involved in GvHD prevention.

The Activating NKG2C Receptor Is Significantly Reduced in NK Cells after Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation in Patients with Severe Graft-versus-Host Disease

PubMed Central

Kordelas, Lambros; Steckel, Nina-Kristin; Horn, Peter A.; Beelen, Dietrich W.; Rebmann, Vera

2016-01-01

Natural killer (NK) cells play a central role in the innate immune system. In allogeneic stem cell transplantation (alloSCT), alloreactive NK cells derived by the graft are discussed to mediate the elimination of leukemic cells and dendritic cells in the patient and thereby to reduce the risk for leukemic relapses and graft-versus-host reactions. The alloreactivity of NK cells is determined by various receptors including the activating CD94/NKG2C and the inhibitory CD94/NKG2A receptors, which both recognize the non-classical human leukocyte antigen E (HLA-E). Here we analyze the contribution of these receptors to NK cell alloreactivity in 26 patients over the course of the first year after alloSCT due to acute myeloid leukemia, myelodysplastic syndrome and T cell Non-Hodgkin-Lymphoma. Our results show that NK cells expressing the activating CD94/NKG2C receptor are significantly reduced in patients after alloSCT with severe acute and chronic graft-versus-host disease (GvHD). Moreover, the ratio of CD94/NKG2C to CD94/NKG2A was reduced in patients with severe acute and chronic GvHD after receiving an HLA-mismatched graft. Collectively, these results provide evidence for the first time that CD94/NKG2C is involved in GvHD prevention. PMID:27801784

The Role of Microfilaments in Early Meiotic Maturation of Mouse Oocytes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Calarco, Patricia G.

2005-04-01

Mouse oocyte microfilaments (MF) were perturbed by depolymerization (cytochalasin B) or stabilization (jasplakinolide) and correlated meiotic defects examined by confocal microscopy. MF, microtubules, and mitochondria were vitally stained; centrosomes ([gamma]-tubulin), after fixation. MF depolymerization by cytochalasin in culture medium did not affect central migration of centrosomes, mitochondria, or nuclear breakdown (GVBD); some MF signal was localized around the germinal vesicle (GV). In maturation-blocking medium (containing IBMX), central movement was curtailed and cortical MF aggregations made the plasma membrane wavy. Occasional long MF suggested that not all MF were depolymerized. MF stabilization by jasplakinolide led to MF aggregations throughout the cytoplasm. GVBD occurred (unless IBMX was present) but no spindle formed. Over time, most oocytes constricted creating a dumbbell shape with MF concentrated under one-half of the oocyte cortex and on either side of the constriction. In IBMX medium, the MF-containing half of the dumbbell over time sequestered the GV, MF, mitochondria, and one to two large cortical centrosomes; the non-MF half appeared empty. Cumulus processes contacted the oocyte surface (detected by microtubule content) and mirrored MF distribution. Results demonstrated that MF play an essential role in meiosis, primarily through cortically mediated events, including centrosome localization, spindle (or GV) movement to the periphery, activation of (polar body) constriction, and establishment of oocyte polarity. The presence of a cortical “organizing pole” is hypothesized.

Polyhedron-like inclusion body formation by a mutant nucleopolyhedrovirus expressing the granulin gene from a granulovirus.

PubMed

Zhou, C E; Ko, R; Maeda, S

1998-01-20

The polyhedrin gene in Bombyx mori nucleopolyhedrovirus (BmNPV) was replaced with the granulin gene of Trichoplusia ni granulovirus (TnGV). The substitution was verified by Southern hybridization, and expression of granulin by the mutant virus, BmGran, was demonstrated by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and by amino acid sequencing of the predominant protein of BmGran inclusion bodies (IBs). Light and electron microscopy examination of BmGran-infected B. mori and BmN cells revealed large, cuboidal, polyhedron-like IBs in the nucleus and cytoplasm, but granules were not seen. IBs contained small, parallel, electron-dense streaks, which defined the geometric pattern of crystallization. Geometric patterns of nuclear IBs were frequently disrupted by occlusion of polyhedron envelope fragments, resulting in IB instability and fracturing. Virions were not embedded in most of the polyhedron-like IBs, but accumulated with polyhedron envelope fragments. Some virions were coated with matrix protein and were partially wrapped by polyhedron envelope. These results suggested that (1) the amino acid sequence of granulin insufficient for determining IB morphology in TnGV-infected cells, and TnGV may have genes, not present in BmNPV, that control granule formation, and (2) interactions among the virion, the IB envelope, and the matrix protein may be important in virion occlusion and IB morphology and stability.

Donor lymphocyte infusions in adolescents and young adults for control of advanced pediatric sarcoma.

PubMed

Schober, Sebastian J; von Luettichau, Irene; Wawer, Angela; Steinhauser, Maximilian; Salat, Christoph; Schwinger, Wolfgang; Ussowicz, Marek; Antunovic, Petar; Castagna, Luca; Kolb, Hans-Jochem; Burdach, Stefan E G; Thiel, Uwe

2018-04-27

Allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT) and donor lymphocyte infusions (DLI) may induce a graft-versus-tumor effect in pediatric sarcoma patients. Here, we describe general feasibility, toxicity and efficacy of DLI after allo-SCT. 4 of 8 patients responded. ES#4 had stable disease (SD) for 9 months after DLI and RMS#4 partial response for 8 months with combined hyperthermia/chemotherapy. In ES#4, DLI led to SD for 6 months and reverted residual disease before allo-SCT into complete remission. After DLI, ES#4 and RMS#4 developed acute GvHD (°III-°IV), ES#4 also developed chronic GvHD. 5 patients including ES#4 lived longer than expected. Median survival after allo-SCT was 2.3 years, post-relapse survival (PRS) was 13 months. Off note, HLA-mismatched DLI were associated with a trend towards increased survival after allo-SCT and increased PRS compared to HLA-matched DLI (23 versus 3 months). We studied eight adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with advanced Ewing sarcoma (ES#1-4) and rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS#1-4) who received DLI. Escalating doses ranged from 2.5 × 10 4 to 1 × 10 8 CD3 + cells/kg body weight. AYAs were evaluated for response to DLI, graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) and survival. DLI after allo-SCT may control advanced pediatric sarcoma in AYAs with controllable toxicity.

Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation after failed autologous transplant for lymphoma using TLI and anti-thymocyte globulin conditioning.

PubMed

Rezvani, A R; Kanate, A S; Efron, B; Chhabra, S; Kohrt, H E; Shizuru, J A; Laport, G G; Miklos, D B; Benjamin, J E; Johnston, L J; Arai, S; Weng, W-K; Negrin, R S; Strober, S; Lowsky, R

2015-10-01

We describe 47 patients with lymphoma and failed prior autologous hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) who received TLI-ATG (anti-thymocyte globulin) conditioning followed by allogeneic HCT. Thirty-two patients had non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL; diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (n=19), T-cell NHL (n=6), mantle cell lymphoma (n=4) or other B-cell subtypes (n=3)), and 15 had Hodgkin lymphoma. The median follow-up was 4.9 (range, 2.1-11.9) years. The cumulative incidence of grade II-IV acute GvHD at day +100 was 12%, and the cumulative incidence of extensive chronic GvHD at 1 year was 36%. The 3-year cumulative incidences of overall survival (OS), PFS and non-relapse mortality (NRM) were 81%, 44% and 7%, respectively. Fifteen patients died (relapse, n=10; NRM, n=5). Among the 25 patients with relapse after allogeneic HCT, 11 (44%) achieved durable (>1 year) CRs following donor lymphocyte infusion or chemoradiotherapy. The majority of surviving patients (75%; n=24) were able to discontinue all immunosuppression. For patients with relapsed lymphoma after autologous HCT, allogeneic HCT using TLI-ATG conditioning is a well-tolerated, predominantly outpatient therapy with low NRM (7% at 3 years), a low incidence of GvHD, durable disease control and excellent OS (81% at 3 years).

Long-term outcome after haploidentical stem cell transplant and infusion of T cells expressing the inducible caspase 9 safety transgene.

PubMed

Zhou, Xiaoou; Di Stasi, Antonio; Tey, Siok-Keen; Krance, Robert A; Martinez, Caridad; Leung, Kathryn S; Durett, April G; Wu, Meng-Fen; Liu, Hao; Leen, Ann M; Savoldo, Barbara; Lin, Yu-Feng; Grilley, Bambi J; Gee, Adrian P; Spencer, David M; Rooney, Cliona M; Heslop, Helen E; Brenner, Malcolm K; Dotti, Gianpietro

2014-06-19

Adoptive transfer of donor-derived T lymphocytes expressing a safety switch may promote immune reconstitution in patients undergoing haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplant (haplo-HSCT) without the risk for uncontrolled graft versus host disease (GvHD). Thus, patients who develop GvHD after infusion of allodepleted donor-derived T cells expressing an inducible human caspase 9 (iC9) had their disease effectively controlled by a single administration of a small-molecule drug (AP1903) that dimerizes and activates the iC9 transgene. We now report the long-term follow-up of 10 patients infused with such safety switch-modified T cells. We find long-term persistence of iC9-modified (iC9-T) T cells in vivo in the absence of emerging oligoclonality and a robust immunologic benefit, mediated initially by the infused cells themselves and subsequently by an apparently accelerated reconstitution of endogenous naive T lymphocytes. As a consequence, these patients have immediate and sustained protection from major pathogens, including cytomegalovirus, adenovirus, BK virus, and Epstein-Barr virus in the absence of acute or chronic GvHD, supporting the beneficial effects of this approach to immune reconstitution after haplo-HSCT. This study was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT00710892. © 2014 by The American Society of Hematology.

Locating the Acupoint Baihui (GV20) Beneath the Cerebral Cortex with MRI Reconstructed 3D Neuroimages

PubMed Central

Shen, Ein-Yiao; Chen, Fun-Jou; Chen, Yun-Yin; Lin, Ming-Fan

2011-01-01

Baihui (GV20) is one of the most important acupoints of the Du meridian (the government vessel) and is commonly used in neurology and psychiatry and as a distal point of anorectal disorders by general practitioners. The anatomical relationship between the scalp region of the acupoint and the underlying corresponding cortex remains obscure. In this study, we first prepared the indicator for MRI scanning on a GE 1.5 T excite machine in a mode suitable for 3D reconstruction. The 3D Avizo software system (version 6.0, Mercury Computer Systems, Inc., Germany) was then used for image processing and the resulting data subsequently analyzed using descriptive statistics and analysis of variance (ANOVA). The mean distance from the Baihui anterior to the central sulcus in the adult group was greater than that in the child group (22.7 ± 2.2 and 19.7 ± 2.2 mm, resp., P = .042), whereas in the child group the distance between the Baihui anterior and the precentral sulcus was greater than in the adult group (6.8 ± 0.8 and 3.8 ± 0.8 mm, resp., P < .001). This MRI presentation demonstrates that the location of Baihui (GV20) can be identified using the distance from the central or precentral sulcus. PMID:21785620

Beyond Punnett Squares: Student Word Association and Explanations of Phenotypic Variation through an Integrative Quantitative Genetics Unit Investigating Anthocyanin Inheritance and Expression in Brassica rapa Fast Plants

PubMed Central

Smith, Amber R.; Williams, Paul H.; McGee, Seth A.; Dósa, Katalin; Pfammatter, Jesse

2014-01-01

Genetics instruction in introductory biology is often confined to Mendelian genetics and avoids the complexities of variation in quantitative traits. Given the driving question “What determines variation in phenotype (Pv)? (Pv=Genotypic variation Gv + environmental variation Ev),” we developed a 4-wk unit for an inquiry-based laboratory course focused on the inheritance and expression of a quantitative trait in varying environments. We utilized Brassica rapa Fast Plants as a model organism to study variation in the phenotype anthocyanin pigment intensity. As an initial curriculum assessment, we used free word association to examine students’ cognitive structures before and after the unit and explanations in students’ final research posters with particular focus on variation (Pv = Gv + Ev). Comparison of pre- and postunit word frequency revealed a shift in words and a pattern of co-occurring concepts indicative of change in cognitive structure, with particular focus on “variation” as a proposed threshold concept and primary goal for students’ explanations. Given review of 53 posters, we found ∼50% of students capable of intermediate to high-level explanations combining both Gv and Ev influence on expression of anthocyanin intensity (Pv). While far from “plug and play,” this conceptually rich, inquiry-based unit holds promise for effective integration of quantitative and Mendelian genetics. PMID:25185225

Role of animal pole protuberance and microtubules during meiosis in sea cucumber Apostichopus japonicus oocytes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pang, Zhenguo; Chang, Yaqing; Sun, Huiling; Yu, Jiaping

2010-05-01

Fully grown oocytes of Apostichopus japonicus have a cytoplasmic protuberance where the oocyte attaches to the follicle. The protuberance and the oolamina located on the opposite side of the oocyte indicate the animal-vegetal axis. Two pre-meiotic centrosomes are anchored to the protuberance by microtubules between centrosomes and protuberance. After meiosis reinitiation induced by DTT solution, the germinal vesicle (GV) migrates towards the protuberance. The GV breaks down after it migrates to the oocyte membrane on the protuberance side. The protuberance then contracts back into the oocyte and the first polar body extrudes from the site of the former protuberance. The second polar body forms beneath the first. Thus the oocyte protuberance indicates the presumptive animal pole well before maturation of the oocyte.

Presentations and treatment of childhood scleroderma: localized scleroderma, eosinophilic fasciitis, systemic sclerosis, and graft-versus-host disease.

PubMed

Hedrich, Christian Michael; Fiebig, Barbara; Hahn, Gabriele; Suttorp, Meinolf; Gahr, Manfred

2011-07-01

Juvenile scleroderma is a rare connective tissue disease that involves the skin and subcutaneous tissue. Among all presentations of juvenile scleroderma, localized scleroderma (JLSc) is the most frequent, followed by systemic disease (JSSc) and eosinophilic fasciitis (EF). In posttransplantation chronic graft-versus-host disease (GvHD), scleroderma-like skin involvement can occur. Systemic forms of juvenile scleroderma and GvHD can affect the internal organs, such as the lungs, the gastrointestinal tract, the heart, and kidneys and cause disability and severe, sometimes lethal, complications. Here, the authors give an overview of different presentations of juvenile scleroderma. They report their experience with the different forms and presentations of scleroderma, diagnostic workups, treatment, and outcome of all forms of childhood scleroderma in the context of the existing literature.

The effect of speaking style on a locus equation characterization of stop place of articulation.

PubMed

Sussman, H M; Dalston, E; Gumbert, S

1998-01-01

Locus equations were employed to assess the phonetic stability and distinctiveness of stop place categories in reduced speech. Twenty-two speakers produced stop consonant + vowel utterances in citation and spontaneous speech. Coarticulatory increases in hypoarticulated speech were documented only for /dV/ and [gV] productions in front vowel contexts. Coarticulatory extents for /bV/ and [gV] in back vowel contexts remained stable across style changes. Discriminant analyses showed equivalent levels of correct classification across speaking styles. CV reduction was quantified by use of Euclidean distances separating stop place categories. Despite sensitivity of locus equation parameters to articulatory differences encountered in informal speech, stop place categories still maintained a clear separability when plotted in a higher-order slope x y-intercept acoustic space.

Influence of the spatially inhomogeneous gap distribution on the quasiparticle current in c-axis junctions involving d-wave superconductors with charge density waves.

PubMed

Ekino, T; Gabovich, A M; Suan Li, Mai; Szymczak, H; Voitenko, A I

2016-11-09

The quasiparticle tunnel current J(V) between the superconducting ab-planes along the c-axis and the corresponding conductance [Formula: see text] were calculated for symmetric junctions composed of disordered d-wave layered superconductors partially gapped by charge density waves (CDWs). Here, V is the voltage. Both the checkerboard and unidirectional CDWs were considered. It was shown that the spatial spread of the CDW-pairing strength substantially smears the peculiarities of G(V) appropriate to uniform superconductors. The resulting curves G(V) become very similar to those observed for a number of cuprates in intrinsic junctions, e.g. mesas. In particular, the influence of CDWs may explain the peak-dip-hump structures frequently found for high-T c oxides.

T-cell-depleted haploidentical stem cell transplantation results improve with time in adults with acute leukemia: A study from the Acute Leukemia Working Party of the European Society of Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT).

PubMed

Sestili, Simona; Labopin, Myriam; Ruggeri, Annalisa; Velardi, Andrea; Ciceri, Fabio; Maertens, Johan; Kanz, Lothar; Aversa, Franco; Lewalle, Philippe; Bunjes, Donald; Mohty, Mohamad; Nagler, Arnon

2018-05-15

T-cell-depleted, haploidentical transplantations (haplos) are commonly offered to patients who have high-risk, acute leukemia in the absence of a human leukocyte antigen (HLA) full-matched donor. To determine the effect of transplantation period, the authors divided 308 adults with de novo, acute leukemia who underwent T-cell-depleted haplo from 2005 to 2015 into 2 groups, according the year in which they underwent transplantation (2005-2011 [n = 191] and 2012-2015 [n = 117]). The median age was 41 years in patients who underwent transplantation before 2012 and 46 years in those who underwent transplantation after 2012 (P = .04). Most patients had acute myeloid leukemia (75% vs 69%; P = .26) and were in first complete remission (CR1) (55% vs 64%; P = .12) at the time of transplantation. The cumulative incidence of grade 2, 3, and 4 acute graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) and chronic GvHD were not different between the 2 groups (acute GvHD: 20% vs 22% cumulative incidence in patients who underwent haplo before and after 2012, respectively [P = .67]; chronic GvHD: 19% vs 11% cumulative incidence, respectively; P = .12]. The 2-year relapse incidence was 20%, the nonrelapse mortality (NRM) rate was 48%, and no difference was observed over time (21% vs 19% [P = .72] and 54% vs 38% [P = .11] for patients who underwent haplo before and after 2012, respectively). The main cause of NRM was infection. Haplo after 2012 (hazard ratio [HR], 0.57; P = .01), younger age (HR, 0.82; P = .02), and receipt of a reduced-intensity conditioning (RIC) regimen (HR, 0.53; P = .01) were independently associated with lower NRM. The 2-year overall survival rate was 36% and improved after 2012 (29% vs 47% before 2012; P = .02); and it was higher for patients who underwent transplantation in CR1 (41% vs 29%; P = .01). In multivariate analysis, haplo after 2012 (HR, 0.54; P = .003) and receipt of a RIC regimen (HR, 0.54; P = .005) were independently associated with better overall survival. Similarly, leukemia-free survival and GvHD-free/relapse-free survival (GRFS) improved over time: the leukemia-free survival rate was 31% (25% vs 43% in the groups who underwent transplantation before and after 2012, respectively; P = .05), and the GRFS rate was 24% (19% vs 34%, respectively; P = .09). In addition, leukemia-free survival and GRFS improved among patients who received a RIC regimen. The outcome of patients with acute leukemia who underwent T-cell-depleted haplo has improved over time. Cancer 2018;124:2142-50. © 2018 American Cancer Society. © 2018 American Cancer Society.

GIS embedded hydrological modeling: the SID&GRID project

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Borsi, I.; Rossetto, R.; Schifani, C.

2012-04-01

The SID&GRID research project, started April 2010 and funded by Regione Toscana (Italy) under the POR FSE 2007-2013, aims to develop a Decision Support System (DSS) for water resource management and planning based on open source and public domain solutions. In order to quantitatively assess water availability in space and time and to support the planning decision processes, the SID&GRID solution consists of hydrological models (coupling 3D existing and newly developed surface- and ground-water and unsaturated zone modeling codes) embedded in a GIS interface, applications and library, where all the input and output data are managed by means of DataBase Management System (DBMS). A graphical user interface (GUI) to manage, analyze and run the SID&GRID hydrological models based on open source gvSIG GIS framework (Asociación gvSIG, 2011) and a Spatial Data Infrastructure to share and interoperate with distributed geographical data is being developed. Such a GUI is thought as a "master control panel" able to guide the user from pre-processing spatial and temporal data, running the hydrological models, and analyzing the outputs. To achieve the above-mentioned goals, the following codes have been selected and are being integrated: 1. Postgresql/PostGIS (PostGIS, 2011) for the Geo Data base Management System; 2. gvSIG with Sextante (Olaya, 2011) geo-algorithm library capabilities and Grass tools (GRASS Development Team, 2011) for the desktop GIS; 3. Geoserver and Geonetwork to share and discover spatial data on the web according to Open Geospatial Consortium; 4. new tools based on the Sextante GeoAlgorithm framework; 5. MODFLOW-2005 (Harbaugh, 2005) groundwater modeling code; 6. MODFLOW-LGR (Mehl and Hill 2005) for local grid refinement; 7. VSF (Thoms et al., 2006) for the variable saturated flow component; 8. new developed routines for overland flow; 9. new algorithms in Jython integrated in gvSIG to compute the net rainfall rate reaching the soil surface, as input for the unsaturated/saturated flow model. At this stage of the research (which will end April 2013), two primary components of the master control panel are being developed: i. a SID&GRID toolbar integrated into gvSIG map context; ii. a new Sextante set of geo-algorithm to pre- and post-process the spatial data to run the hydrological models. The groundwater part of the code has been fully integrated and tested and 3D visualization tools are being developed. The LGR capability has been extended to the 3D solution of the Richards' equation in order to solve in detail the unsaturated zone where required. To be updated about the project, please follow us at the website: http://ut11.isti.cnr.it/SIDGRID/

The Cosmic-Ray Proton and Helium Spectra between 0.4 and 200 GV

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boezio, M.; Carlson, P.; Francke, T.; Weber, N.; Suffert, M.; Hof, M.; Menn, W.; Simon, M.; Stephens, S. A.; Bellotti, R.; Cafagna, F.; Castellano, M.; Circella, M.; De Marzo, C.; Finetti, N.; Papini, P.; Piccardi, S.; Spillantini, P.; Ricci, M.; Casolino, M.; De Pascale, M. P.; Morselli, A.; Picozza, P.; Sparvoli, R.; Barbiellini, G.; Bravar, U.; Schiavon, P.; Vacchi, A.; Zampa, N.; Mitchell, J. W.; Ormes, J. F.; Streitmatter, R. E.; Golden, R. L.; Stochaj, S. J.

1999-06-01

We report on the hydrogen nuclei (protons and deuterons) spectrum from 0.15 to 200 GeV and on the helium nuclei spectrum over the energy range from 0.2 to 100 GeV nucleon-1 at the top of the atmosphere measured by the balloon-borne experiment Cosmic Antiparticle Ring-Imaging Cerenkov Experiment (CAPRICE), which was flown from Lynn Lake, Manitoba, Canada, on 1994 August 8-9. We also report on the proton spectrum over the energy range from 0.15 to 4.2 GeV. The experiment used the NMSU-WiZard/CAPRICE balloon-borne magnet spectrometer equipped with a solid radiator Ring-Imaging Cerenkov (RICH) detector and a silicon-tungsten calorimeter for particle identification. This was the first time a RICH was used together with an imaging calorimeter in a balloon-borne experiment. These detectors allowed for clear particle identification, as well as excellent control of the detector efficiencies. The data were collected during 18 hr at a residual mean atmospheric depth of 3.9 g cm-2. With this apparatus 516,463 hydrogen and 32,457 helium nuclei were identified in the rigidity range 0.4 to 200 GV and 1.2 to 200 GV, respectively. The observed energy spectrum at the top of the atmosphere can be represented by (1.1+/-0.1)×104 E-2.73+/-0.06 particles (m2 GeV sr s)-1 for hydrogen (E in GeV) between 20 and 200 GeV and (4.3+/-0.9)×102 E-2.65+/-0.07 particles (m2 GeV nucleon-1 sr s)-1 for helium nuclei (E in GeV nucleon-1) between 10 and 100 GeV nucleon-1. These spectra are in good agreement with other recent measurements above 10 GeV. The observed spectra flatten below 10 GeV due to solar modulation and are consistent with earlier measurements when solar modulation is taken into account. Between 5 and 200 GV the hydrogen to helium ratio as a function of rigidity was found to be approximately constant at 6.1+/-0.1.

Prominent features in isotopic, chemical and dust stratigraphies from GV7, a drilling site in East Antarctica

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Caiazzo, Laura

2016-04-01

In the framework of the new project "The IPICS 2k Array: a network of ice core climate and climate forcing records for the last two millennia", which represents a thematic research line of International Partnerships in Ice Core Sciences (IPICS), a 250 m deep ice core was retrieved (spanning roughly the last millennium) at GV7 site, together with several shallow firn cores and snow pits. The PNRA (Programma Nazionale di Ricerche in Antartide) project "IPICS-2kyr-It" represents the Italian contribution to IPICS "The 2k Array" and it is being accomplished in collaboration with KOPRI (Korean Polar Reasearch Institute). The availability of various records from the same site all spanning a temporal period ranging from the last decades to the last centuries will allow achieving a stacked record of chemical and isotopic markers and accumulation rate that is basic for a reliable climatic reconstruction. Previous surveys in the area of GV7 (70°41' S - 158°51' E, 1950 m a.s.l., East Antarctica) showed that this site is characterized by a relatively high snow accumulation (about 240 mm water eq./year), allowing a high resolution study of the climatic variability in the last millennium. Here we present the isotopic, chemical and dust stratigraphies of the snow pits sampled at GV7 during the 2013/14 field season and analysed in Italy and in Korea. Reversibly deposited components such as nitrate and methansulphonic acid (MSA) appear to be well preserved and show a clear seasonal profiles, as one can observe from the records achieved both by Italian and Korean labs. Such a feature, together with the high accumulation rate, allowed obtaining an accurate dating of the snow pits, based on the counting of annual layers. At this purpose, a multi-parametric approach was chosen by using MSA, non-sea-salt sulphate, and d18O as seasonal markers. The dating confirmed the value of the accumulation rate found during previous samplings.

Trichoderma-Based Biostimulants Modulate Rhizosphere Microbial Populations and Improve N Uptake Efficiency, Yield, and Nutritional Quality of Leafy Vegetables

PubMed Central

Fiorentino, Nunzio; Ventorino, Valeria; Woo, Sheridan L.; Pepe, Olimpia; De Rosa, Armando; Gioia, Laura; Romano, Ida; Lombardi, Nadia; Napolitano, Mauro; Colla, Giuseppe; Rouphael, Youssef

2018-01-01

Microbial inoculants such as Trichoderma-based products are receiving great interest among researchers and agricultural producers for their potential to improve crop productivity, nutritional quality as well as resistance to plant pathogens/pests and numerous environmental stresses. Two greenhouse experiments were conducted to assess the effects of Trichoderma-based biostimulants under suboptimal, optimal and supraoptimal levels of nitrogen (N) fertilization in two leafy vegetables: Iceberg lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) and rocket (Eruca sativa Mill.). The yield, nutritional characteristics, N uptake and mineral composition were analyzed for each vegetable crop after inoculation with Trichoderma strains T. virens (GV41) or T. harzianum (T22), and results were compared to non-inoculated plants. In addition, the effect of the Trichoderma-based biostimulants on microbes associated with the rhizosphere in terms of prokaryotic and eukaryotic composition and concentration using DGGE was also evaluated. Trichoderma-based biostimulants, in particular GV41, positively increased lettuce and rocket yield in the unfertilized plots. The highest marketable lettuce fresh yield was recorded with either of the biostimulant inoculations when plants were supplied with optimal levels of N. The inoculation of rocket with GV41, and to a lesser degree with T22, elicited an increase in total ascorbic acid under both optimal and high N conditions. T. virens GV41 increased N-use efficiency of lettuce, and favored the uptake of native N present in the soil of both lettuce and rocket. The positive effect of biostimulants on nutrient uptake and crop growth was species-dependent, being more marked with lettuce. The best biostimulation effects from the Trichoderma treatments were observed in both crops when grown under low N availability. The Trichoderma inoculation strongly influenced the composition of eukaryotic populations in the rhizosphere, in particularly exerting different effects with low N levels in comparison to the N fertilized plots. Overall, inoculations with Trichoderma may be considered as a viable strategy to manage the nutrient content of leafy horticulture crops cultivated in low fertility soils, and assist vegetable growers in reducing the use of synthetic fertilizers, developing sustainable management practices to optimize N use efficiency. PMID:29922317

The near-term hybrid vehicle program, phase 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1979-01-01

Performance specifications were determined for a hybrid vehicle designed to achieve the greatest reduction in fuel consumption. Based on the results of systems level studies, a baseline vehicle was constructed with the following basic paramaters: a heat engine power peak of 53 kW (VW gasoline engine); a traction motor power peak of 30 kW (Siemens 1GV1, separately excited); a heat engine fraction of 0.64; a vehicle curb weight of 2080 kg; a lead acid battery (35 kg weight); and a battery weight fraction of 0.17. The heat engine and the traction motor are coupled together with their combined output driving a 3 speed automatic transmission with lockup torque converter. The heat engine is equipped withe a clutch which allows it to be decoupled from the system.

Verification of charge sign for high-energy particles measured by magnetic tracking system of PAMELA spectrometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lukyanov, A. D.; Alekseev, V. V.; Bogomolov, Yu V.; Dunaeva, O. A.; Malakhov, V. V.; Mayorov, A. G.; Rodenko, S. A.

2017-01-01

Analysis of experimental data of primary positrons and antiprotons fluxes obtained by PAMELA spectrometer, recently confirmed by AMS-02 spectrometer, for some reasons is of big interest for scientific community, especially for energies higher than 100 GV, where appearance of signal coming from dark matter particles is possible. In this work we present a method for verification of charge sign for high-energy antiprotons, measured by magnetic tracking system of PAMELA spectrometer, which can be immitated by protons due to scattering or finite instrumental resolution at high energies (so-called “spillover”). We base our approach on developing2 a set of distinctive features represented by differently computed rigidities and training AdaBoost classifier, which shows good classification accuracy on Monte-Carlo simulation data of 98% for rigidity up to 600 GV.

Gigapan Voyage for Robotic Recon

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, Susan Y.; Moorse, Theodore Fitzgerald; Park, Eric J.

2010-01-01

Gigapan Voyage (GV) is a self-contained remotely-operable Gigapan capturing system that is currently being developed by the Intelligent Robotics Group (IRG) at NASA Ames Research Center. Gigapan Voyage was primarily designed to be integrated onto Johnson Space Center s Lunar Electric Rovers (LER). While on LER, Gigapan Voyage was used by scientists and astronauts during the 2009 and 2010 Desert RATS field tests. The concept behind Gigapan Voyage is to merge all the sub-components of the commercial GigaPan system into an all-in-one system that can capture, stitch, and display Gigapans in an automated way via a simple web interface. The GV system enables NASA to quickly and easily add remote-controlled Gigapan capturing capability onto rovers with minimal integration effort. Key Words: Geology, NASA, Black Point Lava Flow, Robot, K10, LER, Gigapan Voyage, Desert RATS, Intelligent Robotics Group

Energy spectrum and flux of 3- to 20-Mev neutrons and 1- to 10-Mev gamma rays in the atmosphere

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Klumpar, D. M.; Lockwood, J. A.; Saint Onge, R. N.; Friling, L. A.

1973-01-01

An experiment is described which was designed to measure the neutron and gamma ray energy spectrums and fluxes in the energy intervals 3 to 20 MeV and 1 to 10 MeV, respectively. In addition, from the 3 to 20-MeV proton recoil spectrums it is possible to infer the shape of the neutron energy spectrum from 20 to 50 MeV. The detecting system utilized a separate charged particle rejection scheme and a two-parameter display system for the output from the pulse shape discrimination which separated gamma rays from neutrons (n). Two long-duration flights were made with this detector in 1970 at Palestine, Tex. (P sub c = 4.6 Gv) and at Ft. Churchill, Canada (P sub c = 0.3 Gv).

Intracellular pH change does not accompany egg activation in the mouse.

PubMed

Phillips, K P; Baltz, J M

1996-09-01

In the sea urchin, some other marine invertebrates, and the frog, Xenopus, egg activation at fertilization is accompanied by an increase in intracellular pH (pHi). We measured pHi in germinal vesicle (GV)-intact mouse oocytes, ovulated eggs, and in vivo fertilized zygotes using the pH indicator dye, SNARF-1. The mean pH, was 6.96 +/- 0.004 (+/- SEM) in GV-intact oocytes, 7.00 +/- 0.01 in ovulated, unfertilized eggs, and 7.02 +/- 0.01 in fertilized zygotes, indicating no sustained changes in pHi after germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD) or fertilization. To examine whether transient changes in pHi occur shortly after egg activation, mouse eggs were parthenogenetically activated by 7% ethanol in phosphate buffered saline (PBS); no significant change in pHi followed ethanol activation. Since increased Na+/H+ antiporter activity is responsible for pHi increase in the sea urchin, pHi was measured in the absence of added bicarbonate or CO2 (a condition under which the antiporter would be the only major pHi regulatory mechanism able to operate, since the others were bicarbonate-dependent) in GV-intact oocytes, ovulated eggs, and in vivo fertilized zygotes to determine whether a Na+/H+ antiporter was activated. There was no physiologically significant difference in pHi after GVBD or fertilization, when pHi was measured in bicarbonate-free medium, nor any change upon parthenogenetic activation. Thus, a change in pHi is not a feature of egg activation in the mouse.

Dynamics of intracellular phospholipid membrane organization during oocyte maturation and successful vitrification of immature oocytes retrieved by ovum pick-up in cattle.

PubMed

Aono, Akira; Nagatomo, Hiroaki; Takuma, Tetsuya; Nonaka, Rika; Ono, Yoshitaka; Wada, Yasuhiko; Abe, Yasuyuki; Takahashi, Masashi; Watanabe, Tomomasa; Kawahara, Manabu

2013-05-01

The objective was to determine if immature bovine oocytes with cumulus cells at the germinal vesicle (GV) stage could be vitrified by aluminum sheets (AS; pieces of sheet-like aluminum foil). Cleavage rates in fertilized oocytes previously vitrified by the AS procedure were higher than those vitrified by a nylon-mesh holder (NM) procedure (89.3 ± 2.1% vs. 65.0 ± 3.7%). Cleaved embryos derived from the AS but not from the NM procedures developed to blastocysts. Furthermore, to investigate the effects of vitrifying GV oocytes on cytoplasmic structure and on the ability to undergo cytoplasmic changes, the intracellular phospholipid membrane (IM) was stained with the lipophilic fluorescent dye, 3,3'-dioctadecyloxa-carbocyanine perchlorate. After vitrification by AS, the IM remained intact relative to that of oocytes vitrified by NM. During in vitro maturation, reorganization of the IM was also undamaged in oocytes vitrified by AS before oocyte maturation, and the IM within oocytes vitrified by the NM procedure was evidently impaired. Finally, vitrification (AS) was used for GV oocytes collected using the ovum pick-up method. A bull calf was born after in vitro production and subsequent embryo transfer. The vitrification techniques described herein should facilitate generation of viable in vitro production bovine blastocysts using oocytes recovered using the ovum pick-up method. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Constitutional Delay Influences the Auxological Response to Growth Hormone Treatment in Children with Short Stature and Growth Hormone Sufficiency

PubMed Central

Gunn, Katherine C.; Cutfield, Wayne S.; Hofman, Paul L.; Jefferies, Craig A.; Albert, Benjamin B.; Gunn, Alistair J.

2014-01-01

In a retrospective, population based cohort study, we examined whether constitutional delay was associated with the growth response to growth hormone (GH) in children with short stature and normal GH responses. 70 patients were treated with 21 GH iu/m2/week from 1975 to 2013 throughout New Zealand. Demographic and auxological data were prospectively collected and standard deviation scores (SDS) were calculated for height (HtSDS), yearly growth velocity (GV-SDS), body mass index (BMI-SDS) and predicted adult height (PAH-SDS) at time of the last available bone age. In the first year, GH was associated with marked increase in HtSDS (+0.46 (0.19, 0.76), p < 0.001) and GV-SDS (from −1.9 (−3.6, −0.7) to +2.7 (0.45, 4.2), p < 0.001). The increase in HtSDS but not in GV-SDS was greatest with younger patients and greater bone age delay, with no effect of sex, BMI-SDS or baseline HtSDS. PAH-SDS increased with treatment (+0.94 (0.18, 1.5)); increased PAH-SDS was associated with less bone age delay and greater initial increase in HtSDS. This study shows that greater bone age delay was associated with greater initial improvement in height but less improvement in predicted adult heights, suggesting that children with very delayed bone ages may show accelerated maturation during GH treatment. PMID:25317732

Do diabetes group visits lead to lower medical care charges?

PubMed

Clancy, Dawn E; Dismuke, Clara E; Magruder, Kathryn Marley; Simpson, Kit N; Bradford, David

2008-01-01

To evaluate whether attending diabetes group visits (GVs) leads to lower medical care charges for inadequately insured patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). Randomized controlled clinical trial. Data were abstracted from financial records for 186 patients with uncontrolled type 2 DM randomized to receive care in GVs or usual care for 12 months. Mann-Whitney tests for differences of means for outpatient visits (primary and specialty care), emergency department (ED) visits, and inpatient stays were performed. Separate charge models were developed for primary and specialty outpatient visits. Because GV adherence is potentially dependent on unobserved patient characteristics, treatment effect models of outpatient charges and specialty care visits were estimated using maximum likelihood methods. Mann-Whitney test results indicated that GV patients had reduced ED and total charges but more outpatient charges than usual care patients. Ordinary least squares estimations confirmed that GVs increased outpatient visit charges; however, controlling for endogeneity by estimating a treatment effect model of outpatient visit charges showed that GVs statistically significantly reduced outpatient charges (P <.001). Estimation of a separate treatment effect model of specialty care visits confirmed that GV effects on outpatient visit charges occurred via a reduction in specialty care visits. After controlling for endogeneity via estimation of a treatment effect model, GVs statistically significantly reduced outpatient visit charges. Estimation of a separate treatment effect model of specialty care visits indicated that GVs likely substitute for more expensive specialty care visits.

Gemcitabine and vinorelbine (GV) versus cisplatin, gemcitabine and vinorelbine (CGV) as first-line treatment in advanced non small cell lung cancer: results of a prospective randomized phase II study.

PubMed

Esteban, Emilio; Fra, Joaquin; Fernández, Yolanda; Corral, Norberto; Vieitez, José M; Palacio, Isabel; de Sande, José L; Fernández, José L; Muñiz, Isabel; Villanueva, Noemi; Estrada, Enrique; Mareque, Beatriz; Uña, Esther; Buesa, José M; Lacave, Angel J

2006-05-01

The objective of this study was to assess whether adding cisplatin to gemcitabine/vinorelbine combination improves the clinical outcome in patients with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Chemotherapy-naïve patients with advanced NSCLC; age < or = 75 years: Karnofsky performance status > or = 60%, and with adequate hematological, renal and hepatic function, were randomized into 2 treatment groups to receive Gemcitabine 1250 mg/m2 + vinorelbine 30 mg/m2 (GV group), or cisplatin 50 mg/m2 + gemcitabine 1000 mg/m2 + vinorelbine 25 mg/m2 (CGV group). All drugs were administered on days 1 and 8 every three weeks: From September 1999 to March 2003, 114 patients were enrolled. No statistically significant difference was observed in GV vs CGV group in objective response (37 versus 47%, respectively; P = 0.5), median time to progression (5 versus 5.8 months; P = 0.6), overall survival (9 versus 10 months; P = 0.9) and 1-year survival (26 versus 28%; P = 0.9). Conversely, toxicities were significantly higher for CGV, including grade 3-4 neutropenia (24 versus 45%); neutropenic fever (4 versus 14%, including one toxic death); grade 3-4 thrombocytopenia (2 versus 14%); and grade 3-4 emesis (2 versus 14%). Our results suggest that the combination of gemcitabine and vinorelbine is less toxic than three-drug combination with cisplatin while showing similar efficacy.

Weather Radars and Lidar for Observing the Atmosphere

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

(Vivek) Vivekanandan, J.

2010-05-01

The Earth Observing Laboratory (EOL) at the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) in Boulder, Colorado develops and deploys state-of-the-art ground-based radar, airborne radar and lidar instruments to advance scientific understanding of the earth system. The ground-based radar (S-Pol) is equipped with dual-wavelength capability (S-band and Ka-band). S-Pol is the only transportable radar in the world. In order to capture faster moving weather events such as tornadoes and record observations of clouds over rugged mountainous terrain and ocean, an airborne radar (ELDORA) is used. It is the only airborne Doppler meteorological radar that is able to detect motions in the clear air. The EOL is in the process of building the first phase of a three phase dual wavelength W/Ka-band airborne cloud radar to be called the HIAPER Cloud Radar (HCR). This phase is a pod based W-band radar system with scanning capability. The second phase will add pulse compression and polarimetric capability to the W-band system, while the third phase will add complementary Ka-band radar. The pod-based radar is primarily designed to fly on the Gulfstream V (GV) and C-130 aircraft. The envisioned capability of a millimeter wave radar system on GV is enhanced by coordination with microwave radiometer, in situ probes, and especially by the NCAR GV High-Spectral Resolution Lidar (HSRL) which is also under construction. The presentation will describe the capabilities of current instruments and also planned instrumentation development.

Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation for investigating pathogenicity genes of the phytopathogenic fungus Colletotrichum sansevieriae.

PubMed

Nakamura, Masayuki; Kuwahara, Hideto; Onoyama, Keisuke; Iwai, Hisashi

2012-08-01

Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation (AtMT) has become a common technique for DNA transformation of yeast and filamentous fungi. In this study, we first established a protocol of AtMT for the phytopathogenic fungus Colletotrichum sansevieriae. Binary T-DNA vector containing the hygromycin B phosphotransferase gene controlled by the Aspergillus nidulans gpdA promoter and the trpC terminator was constructed with pCAMBIA0380 and used with three different strains LBA4404, GV3101, and GV2260 of A. tumefaciens. Transformants were most effectively obtained when GV2260 and C. sansevieriae Sa-1-2 were co-cultivated; there were about 320 transformants per 10(6) spores. When 1,048 transformants were inoculated on Sansevieria trifasciata, three transformants were found to have completely lost their pathogenicity and two transformants displayed reduced pathogenicity. All of the five transformants had a single copy of T-DNA in their genomes. The three pathogenicity-deficient transformants were subjected to thermal asymmetric interlaced polymerase chain reaction and the reaction allowed us to amplify the sequences flanking the left and/or right borders. The flanking sequences of the two transformants, M154 and M875, showed no homology to any sequences in databases, but the sequences of M678 contained motifs of alpha-1,3-glucan synthase, suggesting that the gene might contribute to the pathogenicity of C. sansevieriae. This study describes a useful method for investigating pathogenicity genes in C. sansevieriae.

Influence of Supplementation of Vegetable Oil Blends on Omega-3 Fatty Acid Production in Mortierella alpina CFR-GV15

PubMed Central

Vadivelan, Ganesan

2017-01-01

Objectives of this study were designed for improved production of mycelial omega-3 fatty acids with particular reference to EPA and DHA from the oleaginous fungus Mortierella alpina CFR-GV15 under submerged low temperatures fermentation supplemented with linseed oil and garden cress oil as an additional energy source. The fungus was grown at 20°C temperature for four days initially followed by 12°C temperature for next five days. The basal medium contained starch, yeast extract, and a blend of linseed oil (LSO) and garden cress oil (GCO) in the ratio 1 : 1. Results of the study revealed that, after nine days of total incubation period, the enhancement of biomass was up to 16.7 g/L dry weight with a total lipid content of 55.4% (v/w). Enrichment of omega-3 fatty acids indicated a significant increase in fatty acid bioconversion (ALA 32.2 ± 0.42%, EPA 7.9 ± 0.1%, and DHA 4.09 ± 0.2%) by 2.5-fold. The two-stage temperature cultivation alters the fatty acid profile due to activation of the desaturase enzyme in the cellular levels due to which arachidonic acid (AA) content reduced significantly. It can be concluded that Mortierella alpina CFR-GV15 is a fungal culture suitable for commercial production of PUFAs with enriched EPA and DHA. PMID:28466005

New limit on possible long-range parity-odd interactions of the neutron from neutron-spin rotation in liquid 4He.

PubMed

Yan, H; Snow, W M

2013-02-22

Various theories beyond the standard model predict new particles with masses in the sub-eV range with very weak couplings to ordinary matter. A parity-odd interaction between polarized nucleons and unpolarized matter proportional to g(V)g(A)s · p is one such possibility, where s[over →] and p[over →] are the spin and the momentum of the polarized nucleon, and g(V) and g(A) are the vector and axial vector couplings of an interaction induced by the exchange of a new light vector boson. We report a new experimental upper bound on such possible long-range parity-odd interactions of the neutron with nucleons and electrons from a recent search for parity violation in neutron spin rotation in liquid ^{4}He. Our constraint on the product of vector and axial vector couplings of a possible new light vector boson is g(V) g(A)(n) ≤ 10(-32) for an interaction range of 1 m. This upper bound is more than 7 orders of magnitude more stringent than the existing laboratory constraints for interaction ranges below 1 m, corresponding to a broad range of vector boson masses above 10(-6) eV. More sensitive searches for a g(V) g(A)(n) coupling could be performed using neutron spin rotation measurements in heavy nuclei or through analysis of experiments conducted to search for nucleon-nucleon weak interactions and nuclear anapole moments.

The Structure of Working Memory in Young Children and Its Relation to Intelligence

PubMed Central

Gray, Shelley; Green, Samuel; Alt, Mary; Hogan, Tiffany P.; Kuo, Trudy; Brinkley, Shara; Cowan, Nelson

2016-01-01

This study investigated the structure of working memory in young school-age children by testing the fit of three competing theoretical models using a wide variety of tasks. The best fitting models were then used to assess the relationship between working memory and nonverbal measures of fluid reasoning (Gf) and visual processing (Gv) intelligence. One hundred sixty-eight English-speaking 7–9 year olds with typical development, from three states, participated. Results showed that Cowan’s three-factor embedded processes model fit the data slightly better than Baddeley and Hitch’s (1974) three-factor model (specified according to Baddeley, 1986) and decisively better than Baddeley’s (2000) four-factor model that included an episodic buffer. The focus of attention factor in Cowan’s model was a significant predictor of Gf and Gv. The results suggest that the focus of attention, rather than storage, drives the relationship between working memory, Gf, and Gv in young school-age children. Our results do not rule out the Baddeley and Hitch model, but they place constraints on both it and Cowan’s model. A common attentional component is needed for feature binding, running digit span, and visual short-term memory tasks; phonological storage is separate, as is a component of central executive processing involved in task manipulation. The results contribute to a zeitgeist in which working memory models are coming together on common ground (cf. Cowan, Saults, & Blume, 2014; Hu, Allen, Baddeley, & Hitch, 2016). PMID:27990060

Constitutional delay influences the auxological response to growth hormone treatment in children with short stature and growth hormone sufficiency.

PubMed

Gunn, Katherine C; Cutfield, Wayne S; Hofman, Paul L; Jefferies, Craig A; Albert, Benjamin B; Gunn, Alistair J

2014-08-14

In a retrospective, population based cohort study, we examined whether constitutional delay was associated with the growth response to growth hormone (GH) in children with short stature and normal GH responses. 70 patients were treated with 21 GH iu/m2/week from 1975 to 2013 throughout New Zealand. Demographic and auxological data were prospectively collected and standard deviation scores (SDS) were calculated for height (HtSDS), yearly growth velocity (GV-SDS), body mass index (BMI-SDS) and predicted adult height (PAH-SDS) at time of the last available bone age. In the first year, GH was associated with marked increase in HtSDS (+0.46 (0.19, 0.76), p < 0.001) and GV-SDS (from -1.9 (-3.6, -0.7) to +2.7 (0.45, 4.2), p < 0.001). The increase in HtSDS but not in GV-SDS was greatest with younger patients and greater bone age delay, with no effect of sex, BMI-SDS or baseline HtSDS. PAH-SDS increased with treatment (+0.94 (0.18, 1.5)); increased PAH-SDS was associated with less bone age delay and greater initial increase in HtSDS. This study shows that greater bone age delay was associated with greater initial improvement in height but less improvement in predicted adult heights, suggesting that children with very delayed bone ages may show accelerated maturation during GH treatment.

The NASA GPM Iowa Flood Studies Experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Petersen, W. A.; Krajewski, W. F.; Peters-Lidard, C. D.; Rutledge, S. A.; Wolff, D. B.

2013-12-01

The overarching objective of NASA Global Precipitation Measurement Mission (GPM) integrated hydrologic ground validation (GV) is to provide a better understanding of the strengths and limitations of the satellite products, in the context of hydrologic applications. Accordingly, the NASA GPM GV program recently completed the first of several hydrology-oriented field efforts: the Iowa Flood Studies (IFloodS) experiment. IFloodS was conducted in central Iowa during the months of April-June, 2013. IFloodS science objectives focused on: a) The collection of reference multi-parameter radar, rain gauge, disdrometer, soil moisture, and hydrologic network measurements to quantify the physical character and space/time variability of rain (e.g., rates, drop size distributions, processes), land surface- state and hydrologic response; b) Application of the ground reference measurements to assessment of satellite-based rainfall estimation uncertainties; c) Propagation of both ground and satellite rainfall estimation uncertainties in coupled hydrologic prediction models to assess impacts on predictive skill; and d) Evaluation of rainfall properties such as rate and accumulation relative to basin hydrologic characteristics in modeled flood genesis. IFloodS observational objectives were achieved via deployments of the NASA NPOL S-band and D3R Ka/Ku-band dual-polarimetric radars (operating in coordinated scanning modes), four University of Iowa X-band dual-polarimetric radars, four Micro Rain Radars, a network of 25 paired rain gauge platforms with attendant soil moisture and temperature probes, a network of six 2D Video and 14 Parsivel disdrometers, and 15 USDA-ARS rain gauge and soil-moisture stations (collaboration with the USDA-ARS and NASA Soil Moisture Active-Passive mission). The aforementioned platforms complemented existing operational WSR-88D S-band polarimetric radar, USGS streamflow, and Iowa Flood Center-affiliated stream monitoring and rainfall measurements. Coincident low-earth orbiter microwave, geostationary infrared, and derived satellite-algorithm rainfall products were also archived during the experiment. Twice daily NASA Unified Weather Research and Forecasting model simulations were conducted to provide weather forecast guidance and a coupled atmospheric/land-surface model simulation benchmark. During the experiment the IFloodS observational domain experienced heavy rainfall (> 250-300 mm) and significant flooding. Deployed observational assets, especially the research radars performed well throughout the experiment, sampling a broad range of precipitation system types including multi-day mixtures of rain and snow, warm-season mesoscale convective systems, and supercell thunderstorms. The variety of regimes and large rain accumulations sampled creates a rich source of data for testing both satellite products and coupled atmospheric, land system, and hydrologic models. In this study we will provide an overview of the IFloodS experiment, datasets, and preliminary observational results.

[Summary of professor YANG Jun's experience for intractable facial paralysis].

PubMed

Wang, Tao; Li, Zaiyuan; Ge, Tingqiu; Zhang, Man; Yuan, Aihong; Yang, Jun

2017-06-12

Professor YANG Jun 's experience of diagnosis and treatment for intractable facial paralysis is introduced. Professor YANG focuses on the thinking model that combines TCM, western medicine and acupuncture, and adopts the differentiation system that combines disease differentiation, syndrome differentiation and meridian differentiation; he adopts the treatment integrates etiological treatment, overall regulation, symptomatic treatment as well as acupuncture, moxibustion, medication and flash cupping. The acupoints of yangming meridians are mostly selected, and acupoints of governor vessel such as Dazhui (GV 14) and Jinsuo (GV 8) are highly valued. The multiple-needles shallow-penetration-insertion twirling lifting and thrusting technique are mostly adopted to achieve slow and mild acupuncture sensation; in addition, the facial muscles are pulled up with mechanics action. The intensive stimulation with electroacupuncture is recommended at Qianzheng (Extra), Yifeng (TE 17) and Yangbai (GB 14), which is given two or three treatments per week.

Recent Developments in Cellular Immunotherapy for HSCT-Associated Complications

PubMed Central

Reis, Monica; Ogonek, Justyna; Qesari, Marsela; Borges, Nuno M.; Nicholson, Lindsay; Preußner, Liane; Dickinson, Anne Mary; Wang, Xiao-nong; Weissinger, Eva M.; Richter, Anne

2016-01-01

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is associated with serious complications, and improvement of the overall clinical outcome of patients with hematological malignancies is necessary. During the last decades, posttransplant donor-derived adoptive cellular immunotherapeutic strategies have been progressively developed for the treatment of graft-versus-host disease (GvHD), infectious complications, and tumor relapses. To date, the common challenge of all these cell-based approaches is their implementation for clinical application. Establishing an appropriate manufacturing process, to guarantee safe and effective therapeutics with simultaneous consideration of economic requirements is one of the most critical hurdles. In this review, we will discuss the recent scientific findings, clinical experiences, and technological advances for cell processing toward the application of mesenchymal stromal cells as a therapy for treatment of severe GvHD, virus-specific T cells for targeting life-threating infections, and of chimeric antigen receptors-engineered T cells to treat relapsed leukemia. PMID:27895644

Antiviral T-cell therapy

PubMed Central

Leen, Ann M; Heslop, Helen E; Brenner, Malcolm K

2013-01-01

Summary Serious viral infections are a common cause of morbidity and mortality after allogeneic stem cell transplantation. They occur in the majority of allograft recipients and are fatal in 17–20%. These severe infections may be prolonged or recurrent and add substantially to the cost, both human and financial, of the procedure. Many features of allogeneic stem cell transplantation contribute to this high rate of viral disease. The cytotoxic and immunosuppressive drugs administered pre-transplant to eliminate the host hematopoietic/immune system and any associated malignancy, the delay in recapitulating immune ontogeny post-transplant, the immunosuppressive drugs given to prevent graft versus host disease (GvHD), and the effects of GvHD itself, all serve to make stem cell transplant recipients vulnerable to disease from endogenous (latent) and exogenous (community) viruses, and to be incapable of controlling them as quickly and effectively as most normal individuals. PMID:24517423

Solar tri-diurnal variation of cosmic rays in a wide range of rigidity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mori, S.; Ueno, H.; Fujii, Z.; Morishita, I.; Nagashima, K.

1985-01-01

Solar tri-diurnal variations of cosmic rays have been analyzed in a wide range of rigidity, using data from neutron monitors, and the surface and underground muon telescopes for the period 1978-1983. The rigidity spectrum of the anisotropy in space is assumed to be of power-exponential type as (P/gamma P sub o) to the gamma exp (gamma-P/P sub o). By means of the best-fit method between the observed and the expected variations, it is obtained that the spectrum has a peak at P (=gamma P sub o) approx = 90 GV, where gamma=approx 3.0 and P sub o approx. 30 GV. The phase in space of the tri-diurnal variation is also obtained as 7.0 hr (15 hr and 23 hr LT), which is quite different from that of approx. 1 hr. arising from the axisymmetric distribution of cosmic rays with respect to the IMF.

Agrobacterium-mediated transient MaFT expression in mulberry (Morus alba L.) leaves.

PubMed

Wu, Su-Li; Yang, Xiao-Bing; Liu, Li-Qun; Jiang, Tao; Wu, Hai; Su, Chao; Qian, Yong-Hua; Jiao, Feng

2015-01-01

To optimize Agrobacterium-mediated transient transformation assay in mulberry (Morus alba L.), various infiltration methods, Agrobacterium tumefaciens (A. tumefaciens) strains, and bacterial concentrations were tested in mulberry seedlings. Compared with LBA4404, GV3101 harboring pBE2133 plasmids presented stronger GUS signals at 3 days post infiltration using syringe. Recombinant plasmids pBE2133:GFP and pBE2133:GFP:MaFT were successfully constructed. Transient expression of MaFT:GFP protein was found in leaves, petiole (cross section), and shoot apical meristem (SAM) of mulberry according to the GFP signal. Moreover, MaFT:GFP mRNA was also detected in leaves and SAM via RT-PCR and qRT-PCR. An efficient transient transformation system could be achieved in mulberry seedlings by syringe using A. tumefaciens GV3101 at the OD600 of 0.5. The movement of MaFT expression from leaves to SAM might trigger the precocious flowering of mulberry.

Ground level enhancements of cosmic rays in solar cycle 24

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kravtsova, M. V.; Sdobnov, V. E.

2017-07-01

Using data from ground-based observations of cosmic rays (CRs) on the worldwide network of stations and spacecraft, we have investigated the proton spectra and the CR anisotropy during the ground level enhancements of CRs on May 17, 2012 (GLE71) and January 6, 2014 (GLE72) occurred in solar cycle 24 by the spectrographic global survey method. We provide the CR rigidity spectra and the relative changes in the intensity of CRs with a rigidity of 2 GV in the solar-ecliptic geocentric coordinate system in specific periods of these events. We show that the proton acceleration during GLE71 and GLE72 occurred up to rigidities R 2.3-2.5 GV, while the differential rigidity spectra of solar CRs are described neither by a power nor by an exponential function of particle rigidity. At the times of the events considered the Earth was in a loop-like structure of the interplanetary magnetic field.

Standardized likelihood ratio test for comparing several log-normal means and confidence interval for the common mean.

PubMed

Krishnamoorthy, K; Oral, Evrim

2017-12-01

Standardized likelihood ratio test (SLRT) for testing the equality of means of several log-normal distributions is proposed. The properties of the SLRT and an available modified likelihood ratio test (MLRT) and a generalized variable (GV) test are evaluated by Monte Carlo simulation and compared. Evaluation studies indicate that the SLRT is accurate even for small samples, whereas the MLRT could be quite liberal for some parameter values, and the GV test is in general conservative and less powerful than the SLRT. Furthermore, a closed-form approximate confidence interval for the common mean of several log-normal distributions is developed using the method of variance estimate recovery, and compared with the generalized confidence interval with respect to coverage probabilities and precision. Simulation studies indicate that the proposed confidence interval is accurate and better than the generalized confidence interval in terms of coverage probabilities. The methods are illustrated using two examples.

FRACTURE STRENGTH OF FLARED BOVINE ROOTS RESTORED WITH DIFFERENT INTRARADICULAR POSTS

PubMed Central

Clavijo, Victor Grover Rene; Reis, José Maurício dos Santos Nunes; Kabbach, William; Silva, André Luis Faria e; de Oliveira, Osmir Batista; de Andrade, Marcelo Ferrarezi

2009-01-01

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the fracture strength and failure mode of flared bovine roots restored with different intraradicular posts. Material and Methods: Fifty bovine incisors with similar dimensions were selected and their roots were flared until 1.0 mm of dentin wall remained. Next, the roots were allocated into five groups (n=10): GI-cast metal post-and-core; GII-fiber posts plus accessory fiber posts; GIII- direct anatomic post; GIV- indirect anatomic post and GV- control (specimens without intraradicular post). A polyether impression material was used to simulate the periodontal ligament. After periodontal ligament simulation, the specimens were subjected to a compressive load at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min in a servo-hydraulic testing machine (MTS 810) applied at 135° to the long axis of the tooth until failure. The data (N) were subjected to ANOVA and Tukey's post-hoc test (α=0.05). Results: GI and GIV presented higher fracture strength (p<0.05) than GII. GIII presented intermediate values without statistically significant differences (p>0.05) from GI, GII and GIV. Control specimens (GV) produced the lowest fracture strength mean values (p<0.05). Despite obtaining the highest mean value, GI presented 100% of unfavorable failures. GII presented 20% of unfavorable failures. GIII, GIV and GV presented only favorable failures. Conclusions: Although further in vitro and in vivo studies are necessary, the results of this study showed that the use of direct and indirect anatomic posts in flared roots could be an alternative to cast metal post-and-core. PMID:20027429

A randomized controlled trial to compare the effects of sulphonylurea gliclazide MR (modified release) and the DPP-4 inhibitor vildagliptin on glycemic variability and control measured by continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in Brazilian women with type 2 diabetes.

PubMed

Vianna, Andre Gustavo Daher; Lacerda, Claudio Silva; Pechmann, Luciana Muniz; Polesel, Michelle Garcia; Marino, Emerson Cestari; Faria-Neto, Jose Rocha

2018-05-01

This study aims to evaluate whether there is a difference between the effects of vildagliptin and gliclazide MR (modified release) on glycemic variability (GV) in women with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) as evaluated by continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). An open-label, randomized study was conducted in T2DM women on steady-dose metformin monotherapy which were treated with 50 mg vildagliptin twice daily or 60-120 mg of gliclazide MR once daily. CGM and GV indices calculation were performed at baseline and after 24 weeks. In total, 42 patients (age: 61.9 ± 5.9 years, baseline glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c): 7.3 ± 0.56) were selected and 37 completed the 24-week protocol. Vildagliptin and gliclazide MR reduced GV, as measured by the mean amplitude of glycemic excursions (MAGE, p = 0.007 and 0.034, respectively). The difference between the groups did not reach statistical significance. Vildagliptin also significantly decreased the standard deviation of the mean glucose (SD) and the mean of the daily differences (MODD) (p = 0.007 and 0.030). Vildagliptin and gliclazide MR similarly reduced the MAGE in women with T2DM after 24 weeks of treatment. Further studies are required to attest differences between vildagliptin and gliclazide MR regarding glycemic variability. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder Group Visits Improve Parental Emotional Health and Perceptions of Child Behavior.

PubMed

Bauer, Nerissa S; Sullivan, Paula D; Szczepaniak, Dorota; Stelzner, Sarah M; Pottenger, Amy; Ofner, Susan; Downs, Stephen M; Carroll, Aaron E

2018-06-04

Group visits (GVs) are a promising intervention, but more work is needed to establish intervention effects. The objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of GVs and compare them with individual visits (INDs) for chronic care of attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Caregivers and children (6-12 yrs) with ADHD participated in a comparative effectiveness trial from April 2014 to June 2015. Families were offered ADHD follow-up every 3 months as GVs versus INDs. Outcomes included ADHD core symptoms, child functioning at home, quality of life, perceived social support, and ADHD-related parenting challenges. Change scores from baseline to the study end were examined for parent and child outcomes within and between treatment conditions. Ninety-one children from 84 families participated. Eighteen families withdrew or were lost to follow-up. GV families attended more visits over 12 months, had significant improvement in mean parental emotional health (p = 0.04), and had a greater decrease in challenges related to misbehavior compared with IND families (p < 0.03). GV families experienced significant improvements in child functioning at home (p = 0.01) and reported more time for themselves, other siblings, and routine household activities (p < 0.01). Children receiving care as INDs reported a significant drop in mean emotional health. There were no significant changes in other outcomes. Families participating in GVs experienced multiple improvements related to family functioning and attended more follow-up visits. Findings confirm the effectiveness of the GV intervention in delivering critical parenting support as part of ADHD management.

Effect of a high fat diet on ovary morphology, in vitro development, in vitro fertilisation rate and oocyte quality in mice.

PubMed

Sohrabi, Maryam; Roushandeh, Amaneh Mohammadi; Alizadeh, Zohreh; Vahidinia, Aliasghar; Vahabian, Mehrangiz; Hosseini, Mahnaz

2015-10-01

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of a high-fat diet (HFD) on oocyte maturation and quality in a mouse model. Female BALB/c mice were allocated to one of the following groups: (a) control group (n = 40), which received a controlled diet; or (b) HFD group (n = 40), which received an HFD for 12 weeks. Sections of the ovary were examined histologically. The number of follicles and corpora lutea were counted. In vitro maturation and in vitro fertilisation (IVF) were assessed in germinal vesicle (GV) and metaphase II (MII) oocytes, respectively. The expression of bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) and leptin receptor genes in GV and MII oocytes was evaluated using reverse transcription real-time polymerase chain reactions. In the HFD group, there was a decreased number of primordial and Graafian follicles, as well as corpora lutea (p < 0.05). The rate of oocyte development to the MII stage was also reduced (p < 0.001). Cumulus expansion was observed more frequently in the control group than the HFD group (p < 0.05). The IVF rate in the HFD group was lower than that in the control group (p < 0.05). In the HFD group, BMP15 and leptin receptor genes were upregulated in the GV stage (p > 0.05) and MII stage (p < 0.05), compared to the control group. An HFD reduces folliculogenesis in the primordial and Graafian stages, in vitro maturation and in vitro fertilisation rates, as well as oocyte quality in mice.

Effect of immune modulation in relapsed peripheral T-cell lymphomas after post-allogeneic stem cell transplantation: a study by the Société Française de Greffe de Moelle et de Thérapie Cellulaire (SFGM-TC).

PubMed

Mamez, A C; Lévy, V; Chevallier, P; Blaise, D; Vigouroux, S; Xhaard, A; Fegueux, N; Contentin, N; Beguin, Y; Ifrah, N; Bulabois, C E; Suarez, F; Yakoub-Agha, I; Turlure, P; Deconink, E; Lamy, T; Cahn, J Y; Huynh, A; Maury, S; Fornecker, L M; Ouzegdouh, M; Bay, J O; Guillerm, G; Maillard, N; Michallet, M; Malfuson, J V; Bourhis, J H; Rialland, F; Oumedaly, R; Jubert, C; Leblond, V; Boubaya, M; Mohty, M; Nguyen, S

2016-03-01

Peripheral T-cell lymphoma carries a poor prognosis. To document a possible graft-versus-lymphoma effect in this setting, we evaluated the impact of immunomodulation in 63 patients with peripheral T-cell lymphoma who relapsed after allogeneic transplant in 27 SFGM-TC centers. Relapse occurred after a median of 2.8 months. Patients were then treated with non-immunologic strategies (chemotherapy, radiotherapy) and/or immune modulation (donor lymphocyte infusions (DLI) and/or discontinuation of immunosuppressive therapy). Median overall survival (OS) after relapse was 6.1 months (DLI group: 23.6 months, non-DLI group: 3.6 months). Among the 14 patients who received DLI, 9 responded and 2 had stable disease. Among the remaining 49 patients, a complete response accompanied by extensive chronic GvHD was achieved in two patients after tapering of immunosuppressive drugs. Thirty patients received radio-chemotherapy, with an overall response rate of 50%. In multivariate analysis, chronic GvHD (odds ratio: 11.25 (2.68-48.21), P=0.0009) and skin relapse (odds ratio: 4.15 (1.04-16.50), P=0.043) were associated with a better response to treatment at relapse. In a time-dependent analysis, the only factor predictive of OS was the time from transplantation to relapse (hazards ratio: 0.33 (0.17-0.640), P=0.0009). This large series provides encouraging evidence of a true GvL effect in this disease.

Cytoplasmic movement profiles of mouse surrounding nucleolus and not-surrounding nucleolus antral oocytes during meiotic resumption.

PubMed

Bui, Thi Thu Hien; Belli, Martina; Fassina, Lorenzo; Vigone, Giulia; Merico, Valeria; Garagna, Silvia; Zuccotti, Maurizio

2017-05-01

Full-grown mouse antral oocytes are classified as surrounding nucleolus (SN) or not-surrounding nucleolus (NSN), depending on the respective presence or absence of a ring of Hoechst-positive chromatin surrounding the nucleolus. In culture, both types of oocytes resume meiosis and reach the metaphase II (MII) stage, but following insemination, NSN oocytes arrest at the two-cell stage whereas SN oocytes may develop to term. By coupling time-lapse bright-field microscopy with image analysis based on particle image velocimetry, we provide the first systematic measure of the changes to the cytoplasmic movement velocity (CMV) occurring during the germinal vesicle-to-MII (GV-to-MII) transition of these two types of oocytes. Compared to SN oocytes, NSN oocytes display a delayed GV-to-MII transition, which can be mostly explained by retarded germinal vesicle break down and first polar body extrusion. SN and NSN oocytes also exhibit significantly different CMV profiles at four main time-lapse intervals, although this difference was not predictive of SN or NSN oocyte origin because of the high variability in CMV. When CMV profile was analyzed through a trained artificial neural network, however, each single SN or NSN oocyte was blindly identified with a probability of 92.2% and 88.7%, respectively. Thus, the CMV profile recorded during meiotic resumption may be exploited as a cytological signature for the non-invasive assessment of the oocyte developmental potential, and could be informative for the analysis of the GV-to-MII transition of oocytes of other species. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Quasiparticle conductance-voltage characteristics for break junctions involving d-wave superconductors: charge-density-wave effects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ekino, T.; Gabovich, A. M.; Li, Mai Suan; Szymczak, H.; Voitenko, A. I.

2017-12-01

Quasiparticle tunnel conductance-voltage characteristics (CVCs), G(V) , were calculated for break junctions (BJs) made up of layered d-wave superconductors partially gapped by charge-density waves (CDWs). The current is assumed to flow in the ab-plane of electrodes. The influence of CDWs is analyzed by comparing the resulting CVCs with CVCs calculated for BJs made up of pure d-wave superconductors with relevant parameters. The main CDW-effects were found to be the appearance of new CVC peculiarities and the loss of CVC symmetry with respect to the V-sign. Tunnel directionality was shown to be one of the key factors in the formation of G(V) dependences. In particular, the orientation of electrodes with respect to the current channel becomes very important. As a result, G(V) can acquire a large variety of forms similar to those for tunnel junctions between superconductors with s-wave, d-wave, and mixed symmetry of their order parameters. The diversity of peculiarities is especially striking at finite temperatures. In the case of BJs made up of pure d-wave superconductors, the resulting CVC can include a two-peak gap-driven structure. The results were compared with the experimental BJ data for a number of high-T c oxides. It was shown that the large variety of the observed current-voltage characteristics can be interpreted in the framework of our approach. Thus, quasiparticle tunnel currents in the ab-plane can be used as an additional mean to detect CDWs competing with superconductivity in cuprates or other layered superconductors.

Obox4 critically regulates cAMP-dependent meiotic arrest and MI-MII transition in oocytes.

PubMed

Lee, Hyun-Seo; Kim, Eun-Young; Kim, Kyeoung-Hwa; Moon, Jisook; Park, Kyung-Soon; Kim, Kwang-Soo; Lee, Kyung-Ah

2010-07-01

Extra follicular oocytes spontaneously resume meiosis in vitro, but the intact germinal vesicle (GV) is retained if the oocytes are cultured in medium containing phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors or cAMP analogues. On the basis of our finding that Obox4 is prominently expressed in oocytes, the present study was conducted to determine the functional role of the homeodomain-containing factor Obox4 during in vitro oocyte maturation. After microinjection of Obox4 dsRNA into the cytoplasm of GV oocytes cultured in M16 medium, oocytes were arrested at metaphase I (MI, 77.7%) and metaphase II (MII, 22.3%). Surprisingly, however, 89% of Obox4 RNAi-treated oocytes resumed meiosis and developed to MI and MII when cultured in medium containing 0.2 mM 3-isobutyl-1-methyl-xanthine (IBMX), in which untreated oocytes maintain intact GVs. Spindles were aberrant, and chromosomes were severely aggregated with decreased MPF and MAP kinase activities in arrested MI oocytes after exposure to Obox4 RNAi. Oocytes overexpressing Obox4 retained intact GVs when cultured in M16 medium. Taken together, for the first time to our knowledge, these findings indicate that Obox4 plays a key role in the cAMP-dependent signaling cascades that maintain GV arrest. Oocytes not expressing Obox4 failed to maintain intact GVs in IBMX-supplemented medium, while GVs remained intact when oocytes were kept in plain medium and overexpressing Obox4, suggesting that Obox4 plays a critical role in cAMP-dependent cascade for maintaining intact GVs.

Plug-Assisted Retrograde Transvenous Obliteration for the Treatment of Gastric Variceal Hemorrhage.

PubMed

Chang, Min-Yung; Kim, Man-Deuk; Kim, Taehwan; Shin, Wonseon; Shin, Minwoo; Kim, Gyoung Min; Won, Jong Yun; Park, Sung Il; Lee, Do Yun

2016-01-01

To evaluate the feasibility, safety, and clinical outcomes of plug-assisted retrograde transvenous obliteration (PARTO) to treat gastric variceal hemorrhage in patients with portal hypertension. From May 2012 to June 2014, 19 patients (11 men and 8 women, median age; 61, with history of gastric variceal hemorrhage; 17, active bleeding; 2) who underwent PARTO using a vascular plug and a gelfoam pledget were retrospectively analyzed. Clinical and laboratory data were examined to evaluate primary (technical and clinical success, complications) and secondary (worsening of esophageal varix [EV], change in liver function) end points. Median follow-up duration was 11 months, from 6.5 to 18 months. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare laboratory data before and after the procedure. Technical success (complete occlusion of the efferent shunt and complete filling of gastric varix [GV] with a gelfoam slurry) was achieved in 18 of 19 (94.7%) patients. The embolic materials could not reach the GV in 1 patient who had endoscopic glue injection before our procedure. The clinical success rate (no recurrence of gastric variceal bleeding) was the same because the technically failed patient showed recurrent bleeding later. Acute complications included fever (n = 2), fever and hypotension (n = 2; one diagnosed adrenal insufficiency), and transient microscopic hematuria (n = 3). Ten patients underwent follow-up endoscopy; all exhibited GV improvement, except 2 without endoscopic change. Five patients exhibited aggravated EV, and 2 of them had a bleeding event. Laboratory findings were significantly improved after PARTO. PARTO is technically feasible, safe, and effective for gastric variceal hemorrhage in patients with portal hypertension.

In vitro anti-Plasmodium falciparum properties of the full set of human secreted phospholipases A2.

PubMed

Guillaume, Carole; Payré, Christine; Jemel, Ikram; Jeammet, Louise; Bezzine, Sofiane; Naika, Gajendra S; Bollinger, James; Grellier, Philippe; Gelb, Michael H; Schrével, Joseph; Lambeau, Gérard; Deregnaucourt, Christiane

2015-06-01

We have previously shown that secreted phospholipases A2 (sPLA2s) from animal venoms inhibit the in vitro development of Plasmodium falciparum, the agent of malaria. In addition, the inflammatory-type human group IIA (hGIIA) sPLA2 circulates at high levels in the serum of malaria patients. However, the role of the different human sPLA2s in host defense against P. falciparum has not been investigated. We show here that 4 out of 10 human sPLA2s, namely, hGX, hGIIF, hGIII, and hGV, exhibit potent in vitro anti-Plasmodium properties with half-maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50s) of 2.9 ± 2.4, 10.7 ± 2.1, 16.5 ± 9.7, and 94.2 ± 41.9 nM, respectively. Other human sPLA2s, including hGIIA, are inactive. The inhibition is dependent on sPLA2 catalytic activity and primarily due to hydrolysis of plasma lipoproteins from the parasite culture. Accordingly, purified lipoproteins that have been prehydrolyzed by hGX, hGIIF, hGIII, and hGV are more toxic to P. falciparum than native lipoproteins. However, the total enzymatic activities of human sPLA2s on purified lipoproteins or plasma did not reflect their inhibitory activities on P. falciparum. For instance, hGIIF is 9-fold more toxic than hGV but releases a lower quantity of nonesterified fatty acids (NEFAs). Lipidomic analyses of released NEFAs from lipoproteins demonstrate that sPLA2s with anti-Plasmodium properties are those that release polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), with hGIIF being the most selective enzyme. NEFAs purified from lipoproteins hydrolyzed by hGIIF were more potent at inhibiting P. falciparum than those from hGV, and PUFA-enriched liposomes hydrolyzed by sPLA2s were highly toxic, demonstrating the critical role of PUFAs. The selectivity of sPLA2s toward low- and high-density (LDL and HDL, respectively) lipoproteins and their ability to directly attack parasitized erythrocytes further explain their anti-Plasmodium activity. Together, our findings indicate that 4 human sPLA2s are active against P. falciparum in vitro and pave the way to future investigations on their in vivo contribution in malaria pathophysiology. Copyright © 2015, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

In Vitro Anti-Plasmodium falciparum Properties of the Full Set of Human Secreted Phospholipases A2

PubMed Central

Guillaume, Carole; Payré, Christine; Jemel, Ikram; Jeammet, Louise; Bezzine, Sofiane; Naika, Gajendra S.; Bollinger, James; Grellier, Philippe; Gelb, Michael H.; Schrével, Joseph

2015-01-01

We have previously shown that secreted phospholipases A2 (sPLA2s) from animal venoms inhibit the in vitro development of Plasmodium falciparum, the agent of malaria. In addition, the inflammatory-type human group IIA (hGIIA) sPLA2 circulates at high levels in the serum of malaria patients. However, the role of the different human sPLA2s in host defense against P. falciparum has not been investigated. We show here that 4 out of 10 human sPLA2s, namely, hGX, hGIIF, hGIII, and hGV, exhibit potent in vitro anti-Plasmodium properties with half-maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50s) of 2.9 ± 2.4, 10.7 ± 2.1, 16.5 ± 9.7, and 94.2 ± 41.9 nM, respectively. Other human sPLA2s, including hGIIA, are inactive. The inhibition is dependent on sPLA2 catalytic activity and primarily due to hydrolysis of plasma lipoproteins from the parasite culture. Accordingly, purified lipoproteins that have been prehydrolyzed by hGX, hGIIF, hGIII, and hGV are more toxic to P. falciparum than native lipoproteins. However, the total enzymatic activities of human sPLA2s on purified lipoproteins or plasma did not reflect their inhibitory activities on P. falciparum. For instance, hGIIF is 9-fold more toxic than hGV but releases a lower quantity of nonesterified fatty acids (NEFAs). Lipidomic analyses of released NEFAs from lipoproteins demonstrate that sPLA2s with anti-Plasmodium properties are those that release polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), with hGIIF being the most selective enzyme. NEFAs purified from lipoproteins hydrolyzed by hGIIF were more potent at inhibiting P. falciparum than those from hGV, and PUFA-enriched liposomes hydrolyzed by sPLA2s were highly toxic, demonstrating the critical role of PUFAs. The selectivity of sPLA2s toward low- and high-density (LDL and HDL, respectively) lipoproteins and their ability to directly attack parasitized erythrocytes further explain their anti-Plasmodium activity. Together, our findings indicate that 4 human sPLA2s are active against P. falciparum in vitro and pave the way to future investigations on their in vivo contribution in malaria pathophysiology. PMID:25824843

Agrobacterium-derived cytokinin influences plastid morphology and starch accumulation in Nicotiana benthamiana during transient assays

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Agrobacterium tumefaciens-based transient assays have become a common tool for answering questions related to protein localization and gene expression in a cellular context. The use of these assays assumes that the transiently transformed cells are observed under relatively authentic physiological conditions and maintain ‘normal’ sub-cellular behaviour. Although this premise is widely accepted, the question of whether cellular organization and organelle morphology is altered in Agrobacterium-infiltrated cells has not been examined in detail. The first indications of an altered sub-cellular environment came from our observation that a common laboratory strain, GV3101(pMP90), caused a drastic increase in stromule frequency. Stromules, or ‘stroma-filled-tubules’ emanate from the surface of plastids and are sensitive to a variety of biotic and abiotic stresses. Starting from this observation, the goal of our experiments was to further characterize the changes to the cell resulting from short-term bacterial infestation, and to identify the factor responsible for eliciting these changes. Results Using a protocol typical of transient assays we evaluated the impact of GV3101(pMP90) infiltration on chloroplast behaviour and morphology in Nicotiana benthamiana. Our experiments confirmed that GV3101(pMP90) consistently induces stromules and alters plastid position relative to the nucleus. These effects were found to be the result of strain-dependant secretion of cytokinin and its accumulation in the plant tissue. Bacterial production of the hormone was found to be dependant on the presence of a trans-zeatin synthase gene (tzs) located on the Ti plasmid of GV3101(pMP90). Bacteria-derived cytokinins were also correlated with changes to both soluble sugar level and starch accumulation. Conclusion Although we have chosen to focus on how transient Agrobacterium infestation alters plastid based parameters, these changes to the morphology and position of a single organelle, combined with the measured increases in sugar and starch content, suggest global changes to cell physiology. This indicates that cells visualized during transient assays may not be as ‘normal’ as was previously assumed. Our results suggest that the impact of the bacteria can be minimized by choosing Agrobacterium strains devoid of the tzs gene, but that the alterations to sub-cellular organization and cell carbohydrate status cannot be completely avoided using this strategy. PMID:24886417

On the reason for the kink in the rigidity spectra of cosmic-ray protons and helium nuclei near 230 GV

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

Loznikov, V. M., E-mail: loznikov@yandex.ru; Erokhin, N. S.; Zol’nikova, N. N.

A three-component phenomenological model describing the specific features of the spectrum of cosmic-ray protons and helium nuclei in the rigidity range of 30–2×10{sup 5} GV is proposed. The first component corresponds to the constant background; the second, to the variable “soft” (30–500 GV) heliospheric source; and the third, to the variable “hard” (0.5–200 TV) source located inside a local bubble. The existence and variability of both sources are provided by the corresponding “surfatron accelerators,” whose operation requires the presence of an extended region with an almost uniform (in both magnitude and direction) magnetic field, orthogonally (or obliquely) to which electromagneticmore » waves propagate. The maximum energy to which cosmic rays can be accelerated is determined by the source size. The soft source with a size of ∼100 AU is located at the periphery of the heliosphere, behind the front of the solar wind shock wave. The hard source with a size of >0.1 pc is located near the boundary of an interstellar cloud at a distance of ∼0.01 pc from the Sun. The presence of a kink in the rigidity spectra of p and He near 230 GV is related to the variability of the physical conditions in the acceleration region and depends on the relation between the amplitudes and power-law exponents in the dependences of the background, soft heliospheric source, and hard near galactic source. The ultrarelativistic acceleration of p and He by an electromagnetic wave propagating in space plasma across the external magnetic field is numerically analyzed. Conditions for particle trapping by the wave and the dynamics of the particle velocity and momentum components are considered. The calculations show that, in contrast to electrons and positrons (e{sup +}), the trapped protons relatively rapidly escape from the effective potential well and cease to accelerate. Due to this effect, the p and He spectra are softer than that of e{sup +}. The possibility that the spectra of accelerated protons deviate from standard power-law dependences due to the surfatron mechanism is discussed.« less

Availability of High Quality TRMM Ground Validation Data from Kwajalein, RMI: A Practical Application of the Relative Calibration Adjustment Technique

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Marks, David A.; Wolff, David B.; Silberstein, David S.; Tokay, Ali; Pippitt, Jason L.; Wang, Jianxin

2008-01-01

Since the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) satellite launch in November 1997, the TRMM Satellite Validation Office (TSVO) at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) has been performing quality control and estimating rainfall from the KPOL S-band radar at Kwajalein, Republic of the Marshall Islands. Over this period, KPOL has incurred many episodes of calibration and antenna pointing angle uncertainty. To address these issues, the TSVO has applied the Relative Calibration Adjustment (RCA) technique to eight years of KPOL radar data to produce Ground Validation (GV) Version 7 products. This application has significantly improved stability in KPOL reflectivity distributions needed for Probability Matching Method (PMM) rain rate estimation and for comparisons to the TRMM Precipitation Radar (PR). In years with significant calibration and angle corrections, the statistical improvement in PMM distributions is dramatic. The intent of this paper is to show improved stability in corrected KPOL reflectivity distributions by using the PR as a stable reference. Inter-month fluctuations in mean reflectivity differences between the PR and corrected KPOL are on the order of 1-2 dB, and inter-year mean reflectivity differences fluctuate by approximately 1 dB. This represents a marked improvement in stability with confidence comparable to the established calibration and uncertainty boundaries of the PR. The practical application of the RCA method has salvaged eight years of radar data that would have otherwise been unusable, and has made possible a high-quality database of tropical ocean-based reflectivity measurements and precipitation estimates for the research community.

Genetics Home Reference: X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy

MedlinePlus

... Orphanet J Rare Dis. 2012 Aug 13;7:51. doi: 10.1186/1750-1172-7-51. Citation on PubMed or Free article on PubMed ... Clin Pract Neurol. 2007 Mar;3(3):140-51. Review. Citation on PubMed Moser HW, Raymond GV, ...

Installation Restoration Program. Phase 2. Confirmation/Quantification. Stage 1. Air Force Plant 4, Fort Worth, Texas. Volume 3. Appendix A-1 (Continued).

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-12-01

GAO 0 2L -4e- - Lq*Lio rol -4 1 IOU CI S W a G-v a. IV0 0 J= C. Ic LG 4sa C...8217 ’ ~ -i CIj -43j ~LU . l co r I_- z3 335 0- C= cu w- CDP aIC. *I lr_ - CkIJ LA-. n= C G C=> gao ’ GeL) =31 CAEl = C- C-10. LLaJ 1= w CL -* I t CI or SLLJ...6- Z u - a a qcrLLJ < nC Liu~ LI i LL.J CL. w <r LL <r 03 440 -x C= cn z4 -. - XM Z~ A ~ ’’ ~ "~’ , 4 *.\\~.S~4’N’~~’ - Iz JINI 1 *~ I- LLW W, a,

Transplant results in adults with Fanconi anaemia.

PubMed

Bierings, Marc; Bonfim, Carmem; Peffault De Latour, Regis; Aljurf, Mahmoud; Mehta, Parinda A; Knol, Cora; Boulad, Farid; Tbakhi, Abdelghani; Esquirol, Albert; McQuaker, Grant; Sucak, Gulsan A; Othman, Tarek B; Halkes, Constantijn J M; Carpenter, Ben; Niederwieser, Dietger; Zecca, Marco; Kröger, Nicolaus; Michallet, Mauricette; Risitano, Antonio M; Ehninger, Gerhard; Porcher, Raphael; Dufour, Carlo

2018-01-01

The outcomes of adult patients transplanted for Fanconi anaemia (FA) have not been well described. We retrospectively analysed 199 adult patients with FA transplanted between 1991 and 2014. Patients were a median of 16 years of age when diagnosed with FA, and underwent transplantation at a median age of 23 years. Time between diagnosis and transplant was shortest (median 2 years) in those patients who had a human leucocyte antigen identical sibling donor. Fifty four percent of patients had bone marrow (BM) failure at transplantation and 46% had clonal disease (34% myelodysplasia, 12% acute leukaemia). BM was the main stem cell source, the conditioning regimen included cyclophosphamide in 96% of cases and fludarabine in 64%. Engraftment occurred in 82% (95% confidence interval [CI] 76-87%), acute graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) grade II-IV in 22% (95% CI 16-28%) and the incidence of chronic GvHD at 96 months was 26% (95% CI 20-33). Non-relapse mortality at 96 months was 56% with an overall survival of 34%, which improved with more recent transplants. Median follow-up was 58 months. Patients transplanted after 2000 had improved survival (84% at 36 months), using BM from an identical sibling and fludarabine in the conditioning regimen. Factors associated with improved outcome in multivariate analysis were use of fludarabine and an identical sibling or matched non-sibling donor. Main causes of death were infection (37%), GvHD (24%) and organ failure (12%). The presence of clonal disease at transplant did not significant impact on survival. Secondary malignancies were reported in 15 of 131 evaluable patients. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Cloning and analysis of fetal ovary microRNAs in cattle.

PubMed

Tripurani, Swamy K; Xiao, Caide; Salem, Mohamed; Yao, Jianbo

2010-07-01

Ovarian folliculogenesis and early embryogenesis are complex processes, which require tightly regulated expression and interaction of a multitude of genes. Small endogenous RNA molecules, termed microRNAs (miRNAs), are involved in the regulation of gene expression during folliculogenesis and early embryonic development. To identify miRNAs in bovine oocytes/ovaries, a bovine fetal ovary miRNA library was constructed. Sequence analysis of random clones from the library identified 679 miRNA sequences, which represent 58 distinct bovine miRNAs. Of these distinct miRNAs, 42 are known bovine miRNAs present in the miRBase database and the remaining 16 miRNAs include 15 new bovine miRNAs that are homologous to miRNAs identified in other species, and one novel miRNA, which does not match any miRNAs in the database. The precursor sequences for 14 of the new 15 miRNAs as well as the novel miRNA were identified from the bovine genome database and their hairpin structures were predicted. Expression analysis of the 58 miRNAs in fetal ovaries in comparison to somatic tissue pools identified 8 miRNAs predominantly expressed in fetal ovaries. Further analysis of the eight miRNAs in germinal vesicle (GV) stage oocytes identified two miRNAs (bta-mir424 and bta-mir-10b), that are highly abundant in GV oocytes. Both miRNAs show similar expression patterns during oocyte maturation and preimplantation development of bovine embryos, being abundant in GV and MII stage oocytes, as well as in early stage embryos (until 16-cell stage). The amount of the novel miRNA is relatively small in oocytes and early cleavage embryos but greater in blastocysts, suggesting a role of this miRNA in blastocyst cell differentiation. Copyright 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effects of different lasers on organic/inorganic ratio of radicular dentin.

PubMed

Lopes, F C; Roperto, R; Akkus, A; Akkus, O; Souza-Gabriel, A E; Sousa-Neto, M D

2016-04-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the chemical stability of endodontic-treated root dentin after different laser irradiations through Raman spectroscopy. Fifty maxillary canines were selected and prepared with K3 system. Roots were randomly distributed into five groups (n = 10) according to the surface treatment: GI (water), GII (NaOCl + EDTA), GIII (NaOCl + EDTA + 980 nm Diode laser), GIV (NaOCl + EDTA+ 1064 nm Nd: YAG laser) and GV (NaOCl + EDTA+ 2780 nm Er,Cr: YSGG laser). Lasers were applied for 20 s. Samples were bisected, and the organic and inorganic content of dentin was analyzed by Raman spectroscopy. Data were submitted to ANOVA and Tukey tests (p < 0.05). None of the surface treatments alter the inorganic content (cts) (p = 0.183). Roots irradiated with Er,Cr: YSGG laser had a reduced collagen content (GV-290.7 ± 41.7) compared with the water-treated roots (GI-328.3 ± 63.5) and those treated with NaOCl + EDTA (GII-333.9 ± 55.8). Roots irradiated with Er,Cr: YSGG laser also showed a higher inorganic/organic ratio (GV-9.5 ± 1.1) than roots treated with water (GI-7.7 ± 1.5), NaOCl + EDTA (GII-8.0 ± 1.4) and diode laser (GIII-8.2 ± 1.6). Both organic and inorganic contents increased from cervical to apical thirds in all groups. None of the surface treatments were able to promote changes in the inorganic content of the root dentin; treatment with NaOCl + EDTA combined with Er,Cr: YSGG altered collagen.

Cytoplasmic regionalization in starfish oocyte occurrence and localization of cytoplasmic determinants responsible for the formation of archenteron and primary mesenchyme in starfish ( asterias amurensis) oocytes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Shicui; Wu, Xianhan; Zhou, Jing; Wang, Renxue; Wu, Shangqin

1990-09-01

Starfish oocytes with intact germinal vesicles (GVs) were cut along desired planes with glass needles or ligated using silk thread loops into two parts and allowed to mature in vitro, and inseminated. The experimental results showed that (1) only the parts with GVs or partial GV contents (PGVCs) cleaved, those without any GV materials did not; but nucleated and non-nucleated fragments cut from mature eggs were able to divide; (2) the development of animal parts of oocytes containing GVs or PGVCs was like that of animal fragments of matured oocytes with female pronuclei; most of them gave rise to permanent blastulae, and just a few formed ectodermal vesicles with a little primary mesenchyme; (3) a large part of vegetal fragments with GVs or PGVCs, and the vegetal parts of mature eggs without female pronuclei developed into small but normal embryos; (4) the fragments containing GVs or PGVCs obtained from the oocytes along a plane parallel to the animal-vegetal (A-V) axis developed as normally as the halves (with or without female pronuclei) severed from mature eggs along the same axis. Based on the data above, it was concluded that (1) the non-chromatin materials in the oocyte GVs are indispensable for successful fertilization and cleavage of starfish eggs; (2) some factor (s) located asymmetrically in the vegetal hemispheres of starfish oocytes is (are) responsible for formation of the archenteron and primary mesenchyme. It is evident from the above findings that the oocyte cytoplasm of the starfish had already regionalized before the GV break-down.

Emissions of particle-phase polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the Fu Gui-shan Tunnel of Nanjing, China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Fei; Hu, Wei; Zhong, Qin

2013-04-01

Real-world vehicle emission factors for PM10 (particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter smaller than 10 μm) and particle-phase polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) from mixed vehicles were quantified in the Fu Gui-shan Tunnel of Nanjing during summer and winter of 2010. Concentrations of PM10 and sixteen particle phase polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the entrance and exit of the tunnel were studied. The results showed that the four most abundant particular phase polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) of motor vehicle were benzo[ghi]perylene, benzo[k]fluoranthene, benz[a]anthracene and benzo[a]pyrene. The emission factors for PM10 and particle-phase PAHs were 687 mg veh- 1 km- 1 and 18.853 mg veh- 1 km- 1 in summer, 714 mg veh- 1 km- 1 and 20.374 mg veh- 1 km- 1 in winter. Higher particle-phase PAH emission factors were found to be associated with a high proportion of diesel-fueled vehicles (DV). The estimated PM10 emission factor of gasoline-fueled vehicles (GV) was 513 mg veh- 1 km- 1 and the value for DV was 914 mg veh- 1 km- 1, while EFDV of particulate PAH (31.290 mg veh- 1 km- 1) was nearly 4 times higher than EFGV (9.310 mg veh- 1 km- 1). The five highest emission factors of diesel-fueled vehicles (DV) were benzo[ghi]perylene, benzo[k]fluoranthene, Indeno[1,2,3-cd]pyrene, benz[a]anthracene and benzo[a]pyrene, which was similarly found in the gasoline-fueled vehicles (GV). The sum of these five emission factors accounted for ~ 69% of the total particle-phase PAH of DV and ~ 67% of GV.

Beyond Punnett squares: Student word association and explanations of phenotypic variation through an integrative quantitative genetics unit investigating anthocyanin inheritance and expression in Brassica rapa Fast plants.

PubMed

Batzli, Janet M; Smith, Amber R; Williams, Paul H; McGee, Seth A; Dósa, Katalin; Pfammatter, Jesse

2014-01-01

Genetics instruction in introductory biology is often confined to Mendelian genetics and avoids the complexities of variation in quantitative traits. Given the driving question "What determines variation in phenotype (Pv)? (Pv=Genotypic variation Gv + environmental variation Ev)," we developed a 4-wk unit for an inquiry-based laboratory course focused on the inheritance and expression of a quantitative trait in varying environments. We utilized Brassica rapa Fast Plants as a model organism to study variation in the phenotype anthocyanin pigment intensity. As an initial curriculum assessment, we used free word association to examine students' cognitive structures before and after the unit and explanations in students' final research posters with particular focus on variation (Pv = Gv + Ev). Comparison of pre- and postunit word frequency revealed a shift in words and a pattern of co-occurring concepts indicative of change in cognitive structure, with particular focus on "variation" as a proposed threshold concept and primary goal for students' explanations. Given review of 53 posters, we found ∼50% of students capable of intermediate to high-level explanations combining both Gv and Ev influence on expression of anthocyanin intensity (Pv). While far from "plug and play," this conceptually rich, inquiry-based unit holds promise for effective integration of quantitative and Mendelian genetics. © 2014 J. M. Batzli et al. CBE—Life Sciences Education © 2014 The American Society for Cell Biology. This article is distributed by The American Society for Cell Biology under license from the author(s). It is available to the public under an Attribution–Noncommercial–Share Alike 3.0 Unported Creative Commons License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/3.0).

Plug-Assisted Retrograde Transvenous Obliteration for the Treatment of Gastric Variceal Hemorrhage

PubMed Central

Chang, Min-Yung; Kim, Taehwan; Shin, Wonseon; Shin, Minwoo; Kim, Gyoung Min; Won, Jong Yun; Park, Sung Il; Lee, Do Yun

2016-01-01

Objective To evaluate the feasibility, safety, and clinical outcomes of plug-assisted retrograde transvenous obliteration (PARTO) to treat gastric variceal hemorrhage in patients with portal hypertension. Materials and Methods From May 2012 to June 2014, 19 patients (11 men and 8 women, median age; 61, with history of gastric variceal hemorrhage; 17, active bleeding; 2) who underwent PARTO using a vascular plug and a gelfoam pledget were retrospectively analyzed. Clinical and laboratory data were examined to evaluate primary (technical and clinical success, complications) and secondary (worsening of esophageal varix [EV], change in liver function) end points. Median follow-up duration was 11 months, from 6.5 to 18 months. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare laboratory data before and after the procedure. Results Technical success (complete occlusion of the efferent shunt and complete filling of gastric varix [GV] with a gelfoam slurry) was achieved in 18 of 19 (94.7%) patients. The embolic materials could not reach the GV in 1 patient who had endoscopic glue injection before our procedure. The clinical success rate (no recurrence of gastric variceal bleeding) was the same because the technically failed patient showed recurrent bleeding later. Acute complications included fever (n = 2), fever and hypotension (n = 2; one diagnosed adrenal insufficiency), and transient microscopic hematuria (n = 3). Ten patients underwent follow-up endoscopy; all exhibited GV improvement, except 2 without endoscopic change. Five patients exhibited aggravated EV, and 2 of them had a bleeding event. Laboratory findings were significantly improved after PARTO. Conclusion PARTO is technically feasible, safe, and effective for gastric variceal hemorrhage in patients with portal hypertension. PMID:26957908

Inaccurate DNA synthesis in cell extracts of yeast producing active human DNA polymerase iota.

PubMed

Makarova, Alena V; Grabow, Corinn; Gening, Leonid V; Tarantul, Vyacheslav Z; Tahirov, Tahir H; Bessho, Tadayoshi; Pavlov, Youri I

2011-01-31

Mammalian Pol ι has an unusual combination of properties: it is stimulated by Mn(2+) ions, can bypass some DNA lesions and misincorporates "G" opposite template "T" more frequently than incorporates the correct "A." We recently proposed a method of detection of Pol ι activity in animal cell extracts, based on primer extension opposite the template T with a high concentration of only two nucleotides, dGTP and dATP (incorporation of "G" versus "A" method of Gening, abbreviated as "misGvA"). We provide unambiguous proof of the "misGvA" approach concept and extend the applicability of the method for the studies of variants of Pol ι in the yeast model system with different cation cofactors. We produced human Pol ι in baker's yeast, which do not have a POLI ortholog. The "misGvA" activity is absent in cell extracts containing an empty vector, or producing catalytically dead Pol ι, or Pol ι lacking exon 2, but is robust in the strain producing wild-type Pol ι or its catalytic core, or protein with the active center L62I mutant. The signature pattern of primer extension products resulting from inaccurate DNA synthesis by extracts of cells producing either Pol ι or human Pol η is different. The DNA sequence of the template is critical for the detection of the infidelity of DNA synthesis attributed to DNA Pol ι. The primer/template and composition of the exogenous DNA precursor pool can be adapted to monitor replication fidelity in cell extracts expressing various error-prone Pols or mutator variants of accurate Pols. Finally, we demonstrate that the mutation rates in yeast strains producing human DNA Pols ι and η are not elevated over the control strain, despite highly inaccurate DNA synthesis by their extracts.

Measuring Neurotic Behavior.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Blai, Boris, Jr.

An exploratory study concerned with the measurement of perseveration, or persistence, as a personality variable was based on the work of G.V. Hamilton, an early investigator in the field. Persistently maladaptive behavior was hypothesized to be a chief characteristic of neurosis. An experimental problem-solving situation was designed to…

Application of Cortical Processing Theory to Acoustical Analysis

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-03-31

monaural/ binaural ). Initial results of these experiments show a gated/continuous difference analogous to the ’masking overshoot’ in tone detection. These... beat vee - bee zed - said neck - deck fence - pence Sibilatilon (S0) Graveness (GV) Compactness (CM) (Slbilated - Assibilated) (Grave - Acute) (Compact

[Graft-versus-host disease as the cause of symptoms mimicking Sjögren's syndrome].

PubMed

Tuchocka-Piotrowska, Aleksandra; Puszczewicz, Mariusz; Kołczewska, Aleksandra; Majewski, Dominik

2006-01-01

A case of chronic graft-versus-host disease (chronic GvHD) mimicking symptoms associated with idiopathic Sjögren's syndrome is presented. Hypotheses on the pathophysiological origin of clinical syndromes associated with graft-versus-host disease are discussed.

Reconstructed plutonium fallout in the GV7 firn core from Northern Victoria Land, East Antarctica

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hwang, H.; Han, Y.; Kang, J.; Lee, K.; Hong, S.; Hur, S. D.; Narcisi, B.; Frezzotti, M.

2017-12-01

Atmospheric nuclear explosions during the period from the 1940s to the 1980s are the major anthropogenic source of plutonium (Pu) in the environment. In this work, we analyzed fg g-1 levels of artificial Pu, released predominantly by atmospheric nuclear weapons tests. We measured 351 samples which collected a 78 m-depth fire core at the site of GV7 (S 70°41'17.1", E 158°51'48.9", 1950 m a.s.l.), Northern Victoria Land, East Antarctica. To determine the Pu concentration in the samples, we used an inductively coupled plasma sector field mass spectrometry coupled with an Apex high-efficiency sample introduction system, which has the advantages of small sample consumption and simple sample preparation. We reconstructed the firn core Pu fallout record for the period after 1954 CE shows a significant fluctuation in agreement with past atmospheric nuclear testing. These data will contribute to ice core research by providing depth-age information.

Bovine oocytes and early embryos express Staufen and ELAVL RNA-binding proteins.

PubMed

Calder, M D; Madan, P; Watson, A J

2008-05-01

RNA-binding proteins (RBP) influence RNA editing, localization, stability and translation and may contribute to oocyte developmental competence by regulating the stability and turnover of oogenetic mRNAs. The expression of Staufen 1 and 2 and ELAVL1, ELAVL2 RNA-binding proteins during cow early development was characterized. Cumulus-oocyte complexes were collected from slaughterhouse ovaries, matured, inseminated and subjected to embryo culture in vitro. Oocyte or preimplantation embryo pools were processed for RT-PCR and whole-mount immunofluorescence analysis of mRNA expression and protein distribution. STAU1 and STAU2 and ELAVL1 mRNAs and proteins were detected throughout cow preimplantation development from the germinal vesicle (GV) oocyte to the blastocyst stage. ELAVL2 mRNAs were detectable from the GV to the morula stage, whereas ELAVL2 protein was in all stages examined and localized to both cytoplasm and nuclei. The findings provide a foundation for investigating the role of RBPs during mammalian oocyte maturation and early embryogenesis.

Ontogeny of surface markers on functionally distinct T cell subsets in the chicken.

PubMed

Traill, K N; Böck, G; Boyd, R L; Ratheiser, K; Wick, G

1984-01-01

Three subsets of chicken peripheral T cells (T1, T2 and T3) have been identified in peripheral blood of adult chickens on the basis of fluorescence intensity after staining with certain xenogeneic anti-thymus cell sera (from turkeys and rabbits). They differentiate between 3-10 weeks of age in parallel with development of responsiveness to the mitogens concanavalin A (Con A), phytohemagglutinin (PHA) and pokeweed mitogen (PWM). Functional tests on the T subsets, sorted with a fluorescence-activated cell sorter, have shown that T2, 3 cells respond to Con A, PHA and PWM and are capable of eliciting a graft-vs.-host reaction (GvHR). In contrast, although T1 cells respond to Con A, they respond poorly to PHA and not at all to PWM or in GvHR. There was some indication of cooperation between T1 and T2,3 cells for the PHA response. Parallels between these chicken subsets and helper and suppressor/cytotoxic subsets in mammalian systems are discussed.

Maternal microchimerism in biliary atresia

PubMed Central

Muraji, Toshihiro

2014-01-01

The etiology of biliary atresia (BA) is unknown; however, the liver histology is similar to that observed in immune-mediated hepatic disorders. Liver fibrosis in BA progresses even after bile drainage has been achieved by the Kasai operation. Maternal microchimerism has been purported to play a part in the pathogenesis of BA as well as certain autoimmune diseases. However, the role of maternal cells has not yet been determined in BA. Specifically, it is unknown whether these maternal cells function as maternal effector T lymphocytes, or targets or bystanders. We currently hypothesize that the first hit is due to GvHD interaction by engrafted maternal effector T lymphocytes. Furthermore, we suggest that the secondary effects that are manifested by progressive cirrhosis are caused either by maternal chimeric effector T lymphocytes (e.g., GvHD interaction) or targets (e.g., HvGD interaction). Based on our hypothesis, mixed lymphocyte reactions between patients and their mothers might shed light on the etiopathogenesis and prognostic indicators. PMID:24670921

Systematic evaluation of NASA precipitation radar estimates using NOAA/NSSL National Mosaic QPE products

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kirstetter, P.; Hong, Y.; Gourley, J. J.; Chen, S.; Flamig, Z.; Zhang, J.; Howard, K.; Petersen, W. A.

2011-12-01

Proper characterization of the error structure of TRMM Precipitation Radar (PR) quantitative precipitation estimation (QPE) is needed for their use in TRMM combined products, water budget studies and hydrological modeling applications. Due to the variety of sources of error in spaceborne radar QPE (attenuation of the radar signal, influence of land surface, impact of off-nadir viewing angle, etc.) and the impact of correction algorithms, the problem is addressed by comparison of PR QPEs with reference values derived from ground-based measurements (GV) using NOAA/NSSL's National Mosaic QPE (NMQ) system. An investigation of this subject has been carried out at the PR estimation scale (instantaneous and 5 km) on the basis of a 3-month-long data sample. A significant effort has been carried out to derive a bias-corrected, robust reference rainfall source from NMQ. The GV processing details will be presented along with preliminary results of PR's error characteristics using contingency table statistics, probability distribution comparisons, scatter plots, semi-variograms, and systematic biases and random errors.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: Analytical model for irradiated atmospheres (Parmentier+, 2015)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Parmentier, V.; Guillot, T.; Fortney, J.; Marley, M.

2014-11-01

The model has six parameters to describe the opacities: - {kappa}(N) is the Rosseland mean opacity at each levels of the atmosphere it does not have to be constant with depth. - Gp is the ratio of the thermal Plank mean opacity to the thermal Rosseland mean opacity. - Beta is the width ratio of the two thermal bands in the frequency space. - Gv1 is the ratio of the visible opacity in the first visible band to the thermal Rosseland mean opacity - Gv2 is the ratio of the visible opacity in the second visible band to the thermal Rosseland mean opacity - Gv3 is the ratio of the visible opacity in the second visible band to the thermal Rosseland mean opacity Each visible band has a fixed width of 1/3. Additional parameters describe the physical setting: - Teq0 is the equilibrium temperature of the planet for 0 albedo and full redistribution of energy. - mu is the angle between the vertical direction and the stellar direction. For average profiles set mu=1/sqrt(3) - f is a parameter equal to 0.5 to compute a dayside average profile and 0.25 for planet average profile. - Tint is the internal temperature, given by the internal luminosity - grav is the gravity of the planet - Ab is the Bond albedo of the planet - P(i) are the pressure levels where the temperature is computed. - N is the number of atmospheric levels. Several options are available in order to use the coefficients derived in Parmentier et al. (2014A&A...562A.133P, Cat. J/A+A/562/A133): ROSS can take the values : - "USER" for a Rosseland mean opacity set by the user {kappa}(nlevels) through the atmosphere. - "AUTO" in order to use {kappa}(P,T), the functional form of the Rosseland mean opacities provided by Valencia et al. (2013ApJ...775...10V) and based on the opacities calculated by Freedman et al. (2008ApJS..174..504F). The value of {kappa} is then recalculated and the initial value set by the user is NOT taken into account. COEFF can take the values : - "USER" for coefficients set by the user - "AUTO" for using the fit of the coefficients provided in Parmentier et al. (2014A&A...562A.133P, Cat. J/A+A/562/A133). In that case all the coefficients set by the user are NOT taken into account (apart for the Rosseland mean opacities) COMP can take the values (Valid only if COEFF="AUTO") : - "SOLAR" to use the fit of the coefficients for a solar composition atmosphere - "NOTIO" to use the fit of the coefficients without TiO STAR can take the value (Valid only if COEFF="AUTO"): - "SUN" to use the fit of the coefficients for a sun-like stellar irradiation ALBEDO can thake the value : - "USER" for a user defined albedo - "AUTO" to use the fit of the albedos for solar-composition, clear-sky atmospheres CONV can be either : - "NO" for a pure radiative solution - "YES" for a radiative/convective solution (without taking into account detached convective layers) The code and all the outputs uses SI units. Installation and use : to install the code use the command "make". To test use "make test". The test should be done with the downloaded version of the code, without any changes. To execute the code, once it has been compiled, type ./NonGrey in the same directory.This will output a file PTprofile.csv with the temperature structure in csv format and a file PTprofile.dat in dat format. The input parameters must be changed inside the file paper2.f90. It is necessary to compile the code again each time. The subroutine tprofile2e.f90 can be directly implemented into one's code. (5 data files).

Fluorescence screening of leucomalachite green and leucogentian violet residues in catfish

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The tripheylmethane dyes malachite green (MG) and gentian violet (GV) are effective fungicides, ectoparasiticides and disinfectants in aquaculture. This practice may leave toxic residues in seafood which is not allowed by FDA and many regulatory agencies worldwide. In this work, residues of their me...

The contribution of brown vegetation to vegetation dynamics

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Indices of vegetation dynamics that include both green vegetation (GV) and non-photosynthetic vegetation (NPV), that is, brown vegetation, were applied to MODIS surface reflectance data from 2000 to 2006 for the southwestern United States. These indices reveal that the cover of NPV, a measure of veg...

Behavioral Evidence for More than One Taste Signaling Pathway for Sugars in Rats

PubMed Central

Schier, Lindsey A.

2016-01-01

By conventional behavioral measures, rodents respond to natural sugars, such as glucose and fructose, as though they elicit an identical perceptual taste quality. Beyond that, the metabolic and sensory effects of these two sugars are quite different. Considering the capacity to immediately respond to the more metabolically expedient sugar, glucose, would seem advantageous for energy intake, the present experiment assessed whether experience consuming these two sugars would modify taste-guided ingestive responses to their yet unknown distinguishing orosensory properties. One group (GvF) had randomized access to three concentrations of glucose and fructose (0.316, 0.56, 1.1 m) in separate 30-min single access training sessions, whereas control groups received equivalent exposure to the three glucose or fructose concentrations only, or remained sugar naive. Comparison of the microstructural licking patterns for the two sugars revealed that GvF responded more positively to glucose (increased total intake, increased burst size, decreased number of pauses), relative to fructose, across training. As training progressed, GvF rats began to respond more positively to glucose in the first minute of the session when intake is principally taste-driven. During post-training brief-access taste tests, GvF rats licked more for glucose than for fructose, whereas the other training groups did not respond differentially to the two sugars. Additional brief access testing showed that this did not generalize to Na-saccharin or galactose. Thus, in addition to eliciting a common taste signal, glucose and fructose produce distinct signals that are apparently rendered behaviorally relevant and hedonically distinct through experience. The taste pathway(s) underlying this remain to be identified. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT The T1R2+T1R3 heterodimer is thought by many to be the only taste receptor for sugars. Although most sugars have been conventionally shown to correspondingly produce a unitary taste percept (sweet), there is reason to question this model. Here, we demonstrate that rats that repeatedly consumed two metabolically distinct sugars (glucose and fructose), and thus have had the opportunity to associate the tastes of these sugars with their differential postoral consequences, initially respond identically to the orosensory properties of the two sugars but eventually respond more positively to glucose. Thus, in addition to the previously identified common taste pathway, glucose and fructose must engage distinct orosensory pathways, the underlying molecular and neural mechanisms of which now await discovery. PMID:26740654

Retinal neurodegeneration in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus: the role of glycemic variability.

PubMed

Picconi, Fabiana; Parravano, Mariacristina; Ylli, Dorina; Pasqualetti, Patrizio; Coluzzi, Sara; Giordani, Ilaria; Malandrucco, Ilaria; Lauro, Davide; Scarinci, Fabio; Giorno, Paola; Varano, Monica; Frontoni, Simona

2017-05-01

Recent studies have identified neuroretinal abnormalities in persons affected by diabetes mellitus, before the onset of microvascular alterations. However, the role of glycemic variability (GV) on early retinal neurodegeneration is still not clarified. To explore the relationship between glycemic control and neuroretinal characteristics, 37 persons with Type 1 diabetes mellitus (Type 1 DM) divided into two groups with no signs (noRD) and with mild non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) compared to 13 healthy control participants (C) were recruited. All persons underwent an optical coherence tomography with automatic segmentation of all neuroretinal layers. Measurements of mean of nasal (N)/temporal (T)/superior (S)/inferior (I) macular quadrants for individual layer were also calculated. Metabolic control was evaluated by glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and indexes of GV were calculated from continuous glucose monitoring. The difference among the three groups in terms of RNFL thickness was significantly dependent on quadrant (F(6;132) = 2.315; p = 0.037). This interaction was due to a specific difference in RNFL-N thickness, where both Type 1 DM groups showed a similar reduction versus C (-3.9 for noDR and -4.9 for NPDR), without any relevant difference between them (-1.0). Inner nuclear layer (INL) was increased in all quadrants in the two Type 1 DM groups compared to C (mean difference = 7.73; 95% CI: 0.32-15.14, p = 0.043; mean difference = 7.74; 95% CI: 0.33-15.15, p = 0.043, respectively). A negative correlation between RNFL-N and low blood glucose index (r = -0.382, p = 0.034) and positive correlation between INL and continuous overall net glycemic action -1, -2, -4 h (r = 0.40, p = 0.025; r = 0.39, p = 0.031; r = 0.41, p = 0.021, respectively) were observed in Type 1 DM patients. The triglycerides were positively and significantly correlated to INL (r = 0.48, p = 0.011), in Type 1 DM subjects. GV and triglycerides resulted both independent predictors of increased INL thickness. No correlation was found with HbA1c. Early structural damage of neuroretina in persons with Type 1 DM patients is related to glucose fluctuations. GV should be addressed, even in the presence of a good metabolic control.

Metabolic correlates of learning disability.

PubMed

Nyhan, W L; Wulfeck, B B; Tallal, P; Marsden, D L

1989-01-01

To summarize, the neuropsychologic findings in MSUD and MMA children in both groups demonstrated deficits in cognitive/language areas, but interesting individual differences existed. For example, a marked contrast in abilities existed between NT and GV, even taking into account the age difference between these children with MSUD. While NT's general intellectual functioning was within the low-average range, GV was severely impaired. In more specific areas of cognitive functioning, NT had an uneven performance profile with areas of strengths and weaknesses, while GV evidenced a flat profile with significant impairment in all areas. NT demonstrated mild delay in visual-spatial processing, articulation development, motor-speech abilities, and selective attention and concentration; however, his language and psychosocial development were within the broad range of normality. In contrast, GV exhibited severe dysfunction in speech, language, and perceptual/conceptual development. The three children with MMA also exhibited a range of disabilities in cognitive functioning. TJ and SH contrasted in the degree of developmental delay across language and cognitive domains. Both were distractible and exhibited very short attention spans but there was a measurable difference in the extent of their speech, language, visual-spatial development. CH was markedly delayed in all areas of cognitive development, which is consistent with global retardation. The severity of her disease and its probable impact on brain development were undoubtedly related to her intellectual impairment. These datasets illustrate the challenges we face, because within each group we see a range of impairment. Nevertheless, we are optimistic that our efforts to relate metabolic, anatomic and neuropsychologic findings for such children will lead to a better understanding of these disorders. We are hopeful that this will result in new advances in diagnosis and intervention, which will ultimately improve the prognosis for cognitive development. In summary, a multidisciplinary center has been established at UCSD to study the neurologic basis of disorders of language, learning and behavior in infants and children. The center draws together a group of researchers from many fields including neurology, biochemistry, pediatrics, cognitive and developmental neuropsychology, psycholinguistics, neurophysiology and communicative disorders. Because of the diverse interests and expertise of our group, it is hoped to forge a synthesis of the behavioral and neurosciences to study populations of children with a variety of neurologic, metabolic, and language/learning disorders. Disorders currently under study include Lesch-Nyhan disease, oculocutaneous tyrosinemia, propionic acidemia, carnitine palmityl transferase deficiency, Schwachman-Diamond syndrome, histidinemia, Hartnup disease, citrullinemia, galactosemia, maple syrup urine disease, and methylmalonic acidemia.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

The complete genome sequence of Plodia interpunctella granulovirus: Discovery of an unusual inhibitor-of-apoptosis gene

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The Indianmeal moth, Plodia interpunctella (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), is a common pest of stored goods with a worldwide distribution. The complete genome sequence for a larval pathogen of this moth, the baculovirus Plodia interpunctella granulovirus (PiGV), was determined by next-generation sequenci...

Both Lymantria dispar nucleopolyhedrovirus enhancin genes contribute to viral potency

Treesearch

Holly J.R. Popham; David S. Bischoff; James M. Slavicek

2001-01-01

Enhancins are a group of proteins first identified in granuloviruses (GV) that have the ability to enhance nuclear polyhedrosis virus potency. We had previously identified an enhancin gene (E1) in the Lymantria dispar multinucleocapsid nucleopolyhedrovirus (LdMNPV) (D.S. Bischoff and J.M. Slavicek, J. Virol. 71:...

Active Democratic Citizenship and Service-Learning in the Postgraduate Classroom

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Harris, Clodagh

2010-01-01

This article investigates the use of service-learning in teaching active democratic citizenship in the postgraduate classroom. In particular it draws on a case study of an MBS Government module (GV6104) entitled "Political Participation and Mobilisation" that explores the relationship between democracy and participation. Students of this…

IMPORTANCE OF GLUTATHIONE IN THE ACQUISITION AND MAINTENANCE OF SPERM NUCLEAR DECONDENSING ACTIVITY IN MATURING HAMSTER OOCYTES

EPA Science Inventory

Sperm nuclear decondensing activity in mammalian oocytes is dependent upon the maturational state of the oocyte. It is maximal in mature, metaphase II oocytes and minimal or absent in immature germinal vesicle (GV) and fertilized pronuclear oocytes. Previous studies suggested tha...

The Structure of Cognitive Abilities in Youths with Manic Symptoms: A Factorial Invariance Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Beaujean, A. Alexander; Freeman, Megan Joseph; Youngstrom, Eric; Carlson, Gabrielle

2012-01-01

This study compared the structure of cognitive ability (specifically, verbal/crystallized ["Gc"] and visual-spatial ability ["Gv"]), as measured in the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, in youth with manic symptoms with a nationally representative group of similarly aged youth. Multigroup confirmatory factor analysis…

The stimulation of the vaginal immune system with short-term administration of a vaginal gel containing fraction of Propionibacterium acnes, hyaluronic acid and polycarbophil is efficacious in vaginal infections dependent on disorders in the vaginal ecosystem.

PubMed

Melis, Gian Benedetto; Piras, Bruno; Marotto, Maria Francesca; Neri, Manuela; Corda, Valentina; Vallerino, Valerio; Saba, Alessandra; Lello, Stefano; Pilloni, Monica; Zedda, Pierina; Paoletti, Anna Maria; Mais, Valerio

2018-04-12

The vaginal immune system (VIS) is the first defense against antigens recognized as foreign. Substances capable of locally activating the VIS could be a valid strategy to treat vulvo-vaginal infections (VVI), caused by changes in the vaginal ecosystem, such as bacterial vaginosis (BV), vulvo-vaginal candidiasis (CA), and mixed vaginitis (MV). Bacterial lysates, obtained by crushing bacterial cultures, exert immuno-modulatory activities. The parietal fraction from Propionibacterium acnes is a patent of Depofarma (MoglianoVeneto, Italy). The preparation that associates such fraction to hyaluronic acid and polycarbophil is a registered trademark, commercially available in Italy as vaginal gel, Immunovag ® . The study aimed to evaluate whether a 5-day-treatment with Immunovag ® improves the symptoms and signs of VVI, in 60 women with Gardnerella vaginalis (GV), 154 with CA, 95 with MV, diagnosed with vulvar vaginal swab (VVS), and in 283 with BV, diagnosed with the Amsel criteria. At the end of the treatment (visit 2), the symptoms and signs of VVI disappeared in a significant number of subjects (χ 2 p < .02 vs pre-treatment) in all VVI groups, and their intensity was significantly (p < .0002) reduced in the subjects in which they were still present. Immunovag ® represents a valid treatment of VVI induced by changes in the vaginal ecosystem.

HPLC Determination and MS Confirmation of Malachite Green, Gentian Violet, and Their Leuco Metabolites in Catfish Muscle

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Residues of malachite green (MG), gentian violet (GV), and their leuco metabolites in catfish muscle were individually determined by HPLC using visible and fluorescence detectors. This detection scheme obviated a PbO2 column that converts leuco forms to chromatic forms for visible detection, thus el...

Effect of spray drying processing parameters on the insecticidal activity of two encapsulated formulations of baculovirus

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of spray dryer processing parameters on the process yield and insecticidal activity of baculovirus to support the development of this beneficial group of microbes as biopesticides. For each of two baculoviruses [granulovirus (GV) from Pieris rapae (L....

Therapeutic Work with Gender-Variant Children: What School Psychologists Need to Know

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Scharrón-del Río, María R.; Dragowski, Eliza A.; Phillips, James J.

2014-01-01

In the past 10 years, gender-variant (GV) children (children who do not conform to traditional gender norms) have received increased attention from scholars, mental health practitioners, and popular media. In schools, these students have been shown to be particularly vulnerable to violence and harassment, leading to myriad negative…

22 CFR 41.21 - Foreign Officials-General.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... Foreign Relations DEPARTMENT OF STATE VISAS VISAS: DOCUMENTATION OF NONIMMIGRANTS UNDER THE IMMIGRATION...)(15)(A)(iii), 101(a)(15)(G)(v), and 212(d)(8), and in the definition of the NATO-7 visa symbol, means... the NATO-1 through NATO-5 visa symbols, means the spouse and unmarried sons and daughters, whether by...

22 CFR 41.21 - Foreign Officials-General.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... Foreign Relations DEPARTMENT OF STATE VISAS VISAS: DOCUMENTATION OF NONIMMIGRANTS UNDER THE IMMIGRATION...)(15)(A)(iii), 101(a)(15)(G)(v), and 212(d)(8), and in the definition of the NATO-7 visa symbol, means... the NATO-1 through NATO-5 visa symbols, means the spouse and unmarried sons and daughters, whether by...

22 CFR 41.21 - Foreign Officials-General.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... Foreign Relations DEPARTMENT OF STATE VISAS VISAS: DOCUMENTATION OF NONIMMIGRANTS UNDER THE IMMIGRATION...)(15)(A)(iii), 101(a)(15)(G)(v), and 212(d)(8), and in the definition of the NATO-7 visa symbol, means... the NATO-1 through NATO-5 visa symbols, means the spouse and unmarried sons and daughters, whether by...

22 CFR 41.21 - Foreign Officials-General.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... Foreign Relations DEPARTMENT OF STATE VISAS VISAS: DOCUMENTATION OF NONIMMIGRANTS UNDER THE IMMIGRATION...)(15)(A)(iii), 101(a)(15)(G)(v), and 212(d)(8), and in the definition of the NATO-7 visa symbol, means... the NATO-1 through NATO-5 visa symbols, means the spouse and unmarried sons and daughters, whether by...

22 CFR 41.21 - Foreign Officials-General.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... Foreign Relations DEPARTMENT OF STATE VISAS VISAS: DOCUMENTATION OF NONIMMIGRANTS UNDER THE IMMIGRATION...)(15)(A)(iii), 101(a)(15)(G)(v), and 212(d)(8), and in the definition of the NATO-7 visa symbol, means... the NATO visa symbols, means the spouse and unmarried sons and daughters, whether by blood or adoption...

Mesenchymal stromal cells in the antimicrobial host response of hematopoietic stem cell recipients with graft-versus-host disease--friends or foes?

PubMed

Balan, A; Lucchini, G; Schmidt, S; Schneider, A; Tramsen, L; Kuçi, S; Meisel, R; Bader, P; Lehrnbecher, T

2014-10-01

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are multipotent cells, which exhibit broad immunosuppressive activities. Moreover, they may be administered irrespectively of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) compatibility, without inducing life-threatening immunological reactions, as they express no HLA class II and limited HLA class I antigens under resting conditions. These characteristics have made MSC an appealing candidate for cell therapy after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), for example, for treatment of graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) or for graft rejection prevention/treatment in allogeneic HSCT recipients. Unfortunately, information regarding the effect of MSC infusion on the host response to infectious agents is scarce, and study results on infectious complications in patients receiving MSC are conflicting. The present review focuses on the available data from in vitro studies and animal models regarding the interaction of MSC with bacterial, viral and fungal pathogens. In a clinical part, we present the current information on infectious complications in allogeneic HSCT recipients who had received MSCs as prophylaxis or treatment of GvHD disease.

Noncovalent Interactions between Dopamine and Regular and Defective Graphene.

PubMed

Fernández, Ana C Rossi; Castellani, Norberto J

2017-08-05

The role of noncovalent interactions in the adsorption of biological molecules on graphene is a subject of fundamental interest regarding the use of graphene as a material for sensing and drug delivery. The adsorption of dopamine on regular graphene and graphene with monovacancies (GV) is theoretically studied within the framework of density functional theory. Several adsorption modes are considered, and notably those in which the dopamine molecule is oriented parallel or quasi-parallel to the surface are the more stable. The adsorption of dopamine on graphene implies an attractive interaction of a dispersive nature that competes with Pauli repulsion between the occupied π orbitals of the dopamine ring and the π orbitals of graphene. If dopamine adsorbs at the monovacancy in the A-B stacking mode, a hydrogen bond is produced between one of the dopamine hydroxy groups and one carbon atom around the vacancy. The electronic charge redistribution due to adsorption is consistent with an electronic drift from the graphene or GV surface to the dopamine molecule. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Kid depletion in mouse oocytes associated with multinucleated blastomere formation and inferior embryo development.

PubMed

Egashira, Akiyoshi; Yamauchi, Nobuhiko; Islam, Md Rashedul; Yamagami, Kazuki; Tanaka, Asami; Suyama, Hikaru; El-Sayed, El-Sharawy Mohamed; Tabata, Shoji; Kuramoto, Takashi

2016-08-01

This study investigated the knockdown (KD) of Kid on maturation developmental competence and multinucleation of mouse germinal vesicle (GV) oocytes after parthenogenetic activation. Data revealed that Kid messenger RNA (mRNA) was expressed in GV and MII stage oocyte and 1- and 2-cell embryos. Additionally, Kid mRNA expression in the Kid KD group decreased by nearly 46% compared to the control small interfering RNA (siRNA) groups. The rate of multinucleated embryos in the Kid KD group (52.4%) was significantly higher (P < 0.05) than the control siRNA group (4.7%). Finally, the developmental rates were significantly lower in the Kid siRNA group at > 4-cell stage (28.6% vs. 53.5%) and the blastocyst stage (2.4% vs. 23.3%) compared to the control siRNA groups. Suppression of Kid using siRNA caused multinucleation in early embryos with high frequency and it may increase 2- to 4-cell arrested embryos and reduce the developmental competence to blastocyst. © 2016 Japanese Society of Animal Science.

the role of shock waves in modulation of galactic cosmic rays

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gall, R.; Thomas, B. T.; Durand, H.

1985-01-01

The understanding of modulation of the galactic cosmic rays has considerably progressed by the exploration by space probes of major heliospheric structures, such as the Corotating Interaction Regions, the neutral sheet, and the compression regions of intense heliospheric magnetic fields. Also relevant in this context were the detections in the outer heliosphere of long lasting Forbush type decreases of cosmic ray intensity. The results of recent theoretical studies on the changes in intensity and energy, at different location from the Sun, induced by the passage of shocks across the heliosphere are presented. In this version of the research, the simplest cases of modulation of uGV and 2GV particles by single or several shocks during periods of positive and negative solar field polarity are reviewed. The results of the theoretical aspects of the search is reported. The comparison of the theoretical predictions with space probe data allows conclusions to be drawn on the role of shocks on the modulation on both the 11 and 22 year galactic cosmic ray cycles in the outer heliosphere and on the plausibility of the models and parameters used.

Developmental competence of frozen-thawed yak (Bos grunniens) oocytes followed by in vitro maturation and fertilization.

PubMed

Niu, Hui-Ran; Zi, Xiang-Dong; Xiao, Xiao; Xiong, Xian-Rong; Zhong, Jin-Cheng; Li, Jian; Wang, Li; Wang, Yong

2014-02-01

In the present study, we examined the ability of immature germinal vesicle (GV) and subjected to in vitro matured (MII) yak oocytes to survive after cryopreservation as well as their subsequent development following in vitro maturation and fertilization. Both GV and MII oocytes were cryopreserved by using two different vitrification solutions (VS); VS-I contained 10% ethylene glycol (EG) and 10% dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) in TCM-199 + 20% (v/v) fetal calf serum (FCS) whereas VS-II contained 40% EG + 18% Ficoll + 0.5 M sucrose in TCM-199 + 20% FCS. The percentage of oocytes found to be morphologically normal was greater (P < 0.01) in VS-I group than in VS-II group. Rates of cleavage (30.6-42.2%) and blastocyst formation (2.9-8.9%) did not differ among groups, but were lower than in unfrozen control (55.7% and 25.4%, P < 0.01). These results show that a combination of EG and DMSO or EG, Ficoll and sucrose can be used to cryopreserve yak oocytes in French straws. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Histology of Epiphyseal Plate of Adolescent Rat Stimulated by Laserpuncture

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Handayani, Selfi; Ramelan, Ari H.; Purwanto, Bambang; Saputra, Koosnadi; Tamtomo, Didik G.

2017-11-01

Epiphyseal plate was used for determining longitudinal bone growth. Laserpuncture was believed to stimulate height growth. We used 40 male Wistar rats which aged three weeks old and weighed more than 40 g as subjects. They randomly divided into group A or B and each group evenly divided into four subgroups which were a negative control and others applied with laser on GV20, ST 36 or combination of GV 20+ST 36 respectively. These acupoints were then stimulated using the laser. After treatment, mice were sacrificed, then tibias were taken for histology preparation processes. By light microscope, epiphyseal plate (EP) height (µm) and chondrocytes hypertrophy (CH) height were measured at six equidistant points, and the values were averaged to obtain a final result for each section. Collected data were analyzed using ANOVA test, and the significant value was set up p< 0.05. The mean of EC and CH were lower than control, but mean of ratio EP/CH were higher than control. However, ANOVA showed that there did not differ significantly (p=0.36).

Age related differences in the strategies used by middle aged adults to solve a block design task.

PubMed

Rozencwajg, P; Cherfi, M; Ferrandez, A M; Lautrey, J; Lemoine, C; Loarer, E

2005-01-01

In the present study, it was proposed to investigate the effects of aging on the strategies used to solve a block design task and to establish whether these strategies may be associated with differential patterns of ability. Two groups of subjects, 30 young adults (aged 20-35 years) and 30 middle-aged adults (aged 45-60 years) were set a computer version of the Kohs task and a battery of tests. An age-related decrease in fluid intelligence (Gf) and visual-spatial ability (Gv) was observed, along with the fact that most of the older subjects used a global strategy rather than a synthetic one. On the other hand, while continuing to use strategies of the analytic type, the older subjects looked more frequently at the model and scored high on crystallized intelligence (Gc). These findings are discussed from two different points of view: the theory of hierarchical stimuli and the hypothesis that metacognitive ability, which is thought to rely on Gc, may increase with age, and thus compensate for the loss of Gf and Gv.

[Effect of moxibustion on quantity of pinealocytes and pineal HSP 70 expression in subacute aging rats].

PubMed

Liang, Xin; Zhong, Yu

2011-08-01

To study the mechanism of moxibustion in postponing the process of aging. Thirty Wistar rats were equally randomized into control, model and moxibustion groups. The subacute aging model was established by hypodermic injection of 25% D-galactose (125 mg/kg). Moxibustion was applied to bilateral "Shenshu" (GV 23) and "Pishu" (GV 20) once everyday for 6 weeks. After slicing, the pineal gland tissue was stained with HE and insitu hybridization methods respectively for detecting the quantity of pinealocytes and the expression of heat shock protein (HSP 70). Compared with the control group, both the quantity of pinealocytes and the expression of HSP 70 in the pineal gland in the model group were downregulated significantly (P < 0.001, P < 0.01). Compared with model group, the quantity of pinealocytes and of HSP 70 mRNA in the pineal gland of moxibustion group were upregulated significantly (P < 0.01, P < 0.05). Moxibustion can suppress aging induced decrease of pinealocyte number and HSP 70 expression in subacute aging rats, which may contribute to its effect in postponing aging.

Partial T-cell depletion improves the composite endpoint graft-versus-host disease-free, relapse-free survival after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

PubMed

Simonetta, Federico; Masouridi-Levrat, Stavroula; Beauverd, Yan; Tsopra, Olga; Tirefort, Yordanka; Koutsi, Aikaterini; Stephan, Caroline; Polchlopek-Blasiak, Karolina; Pradier, Amandine; Dantin, Carole; Ansari, Marc; Roosnek, Eddy; Chalandon, Yves

2018-03-01

Graft-versus-host disease (GvHD)-free, relapse-free survival (GRFS) is a recently reported composite endpoint that allows to simultaneously estimate risk of death, relapse and GvHD after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). In this retrospective study comprising 333 patients transplanted for hematologic malignancies, we compared GRFS in patients receiving partial T-cell-depleted (pTCD) grafts with patients receiving T-cell-replete grafts (No-TCD). pTCD was associated with a significantly improved GRFS. The beneficial effect of pTCD on GRFS remained highly significant in multivariable analysis taking into account clinical factors differing between patient groups. We observed no effect of pTCD on overall survival, progression-free survival, and relapse cumulative incidence, while non-relapse mortality cumulative incidence was significantly lower in patients receiving pTCD. The results of our retrospective analysis suggest that pTCD could improve GRFS in allogeneic HSCT recipients without significantly affecting OS and PFS, thus improving patients' quality of life without impairing the curative potential of allogeneic HSCT.

Alterations in Synthesis and Repair of DNA during the Development of Loach Misgurnus fossilis

PubMed Central

Gening, Leonid V.; Lakhin, Andrei V.; Makarova, Irina V.; Nenasheva, Valentina V.; Andreeva, Ludmila E.; Tarantul, Vyacheslav Z.

2016-01-01

Using a modified radiolabeled primer extension method (we named this modification misGvA—“misincorporation of G versus A”) we have investigated the DNA synthesis and repair at early and late stages of development of loach Misgurnus fossilis. The misincorporation activity of DNA polymerase iota (Pol ι) in wild-type loach could not be detected by this method at any stage of loach development. In transgenic loach overexpressing human Pol ι we have shown that the bypassing of DNA synthesis arrest after incorporation of mismatched nucleotide by Pol ι (the T-stop) was not associated with this enzyme. Non-transgenic loach larvae are virtually lacking the capacity for error correction of DNA duplex containing a mismatched nucleotide. Such repair activity develops only in the adult fish. It appears that the initial stages of development are characterized by more intensive DNA synthesis, while in terminal stages the repair activities become more prominent. The misGvA approach clearly indicates substantial changes in the DNA synthesis intensity, although the role of particular replicative and repair DNA polymerases in this process requires further study. PMID:29615575

[Effects of electroacupuncture preemptive intervention on postoperative pain of mixed hemorrhoids].

PubMed

Wu, Jing; Zhao, Yu; Yang, Chun-Mei; Xue, Qi-Ming; Li, Ning

2014-03-01

To evaluate clinical efficacy of electroacupuncture at Changqiang (GV 1) and Chengshan (BL 57) 30 min before surgery on postoperative pain and discomforts in patients with mixed hemorrhoids. One hundred and twenty cases of mixed hemorrhoids who received Milligan-Morgan operation were randomly divided into an electroacupuncture group, a sham electroacupuncture group and a blank group, 40 cases in each one. At the same time of basic treatment, the electroacupuncture was applied at Changqiang (GV 1) and Chengshan (BL 57) 30 min before surgery in the electroacupuncture group, while shallow needling without electrical stimulation at sham acupoint (1 cm next to acupoint) was applied 30 min before surgery in the sham electroacupuncture group, while no treatment was given before the surgery in the blank group. The total dose of painkillers in the first 24 h after operation, the number of cases who received additional anesthetic in the operation, the self-score of most severity pain in the first 24 h after operation and sleeping time in the night of surgery were observed. The differences of the numbers of cases who received additional anesthetic in the operation had no statistical significance among the three groups (all P > 0.05), but compared with the sham electroacupuncture group and blank group, the total dose of painkillers in the first 24 h after operation was reduced in the electroacupuncture group [(2.43 +/- 1.08) tablets vs (3.23 +/- 1.33) tablets, (3.10 +/- 1.22) tablets], and the score of most severity pain was also decreased (6.65 +/- 1.00 vs 7.48 +/- 0.96, 7.25 +/- 1.19), besides, the sleeping time in the night of surgery was increased [(220.63 +/- 85.50) min vs (162.00 +/- 92.69) min, (151.50 +/- 80.01) min, all P < 0.05]. The electroacupuncture at Changqiang (GV 1) and Chengshan (BL 57) 30 min before surgery has effects of preemptive analgesia on postoperative pain for patients with mixed hemorrhoids.

Impact of vitrification on human oocytes before and after in vitro maturation: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Mohsenzadeh, Mehdi; Salehi-Abargouei, Amin; Tabibnejad, Nasim; Karimi-Zarchi, Mojgan; Khalili, Mohammad Ali

2018-05-21

There are controversies regarding in vitro maturation (IVM) procedure, the time of storing frozen oocytes and maturation stage of vitrified oocytes and its impact on oocytes fertilization capability. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the impact of vitrification on human oocytes during IVM procedure. A systematic review with meta-analysis was undertaken. Main search terms were those related key words. We searched Medline, Embase, Scopus and ISI web of science to detect English-language studies. The final search was performed on 27 January 2018. The original articles which studied laboratory outcomes after vitrification of MII or GV oocytes before or after IVM were included. Exclusion criteria were animal trials and the studies that performed cryopreservation using slow-freeze method. Oocyte maturation, survival, fertilization and cleavage rates were assessed. Bias and quality assessments were applied. 2476 articles were screened and after duplicates removing together with application of inclusion and exclusion criteria, 14 studies assessed for eligibility. Finally 5 studies included for analysis. All studies compared laboratory outcomes between oocytes that vitrified at the GV stage and those which firstly matured in vitro, and then vitrified. Meta-analysis showed that vitrification of oocytes at GV stage had a negative impact on maturation rate (RR = 1.28, 95% CI: 0.96-1.70); but not on cleavage rate (RR = 1.07, 95% CI: 0.70-1.64); fertilization rate (RR = 0.99, 95% CI: 0.85-1.14) and survival rate(RR = 1.01, 95% CI: 0.96-1.06). In general, Based on our results, oocyte vitrification decreases the maturation rate. In addition, survival, fertilization as well as cleavage rates did not significantly differ between the oocytes vitrified before IVM versus oocytes vitrified after IVM. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier B.V.

In vivo vs. in vitro models for studying the effects of elevated temperature on the GV-stage oocyte, subsequent developmental competence and gene expression.

PubMed

Gendelman, M; Roth, Z

2012-10-01

The ovarian pool of follicle-enclosed oocytes is highly susceptible to elevated ambient temperature. It is not clear, however, whether the model of using heat shock in vitro simulates the effects of heat stress that animals experience in vivo. The current study examined the reliability of in vitro models, relative to in vivo models, for studying the effects of elevated temperature on the germinal vesicle (GV)-stage oocyte with emphasis on the expression of genes involve in maturation and early embryonic development. Cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) were aspirated from ovaries arbitrarily collected at the slaughterhouse from multiparous Holstein cows. In the in vivo model, COCs were collected during the hot (May-September) and cold (December-April) seasons and then subjected to in vitro embryo production (IVP) at 38.5°C. In the in vitro model, COCs were collected during the cold season, pre-cultured with 75μM 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine (IBMX) for 16h at 38.5 or 41.2°C, and then subjected to IVP. For both models, the relative abundance of C-MOS, GDF9, GAPDH, and POU5F1 transcripts was examined in MII-stage oocytes by real-time PCR. Cleavage and blastocyst developmental rates were higher during the cold vs. hot season. IBMX pre-culture at 38.5°C successfully blocked resumption of meiosis without compromising further embryonic development, and the proportion of cleaved and developed embryos did not differ from the cold season. Exposure of GV-stage oocytes to 41.2°C reduced the proportion of cleaved oocytes developing to blastocysts relative to controls. The most prominent finding was that the relative abundance of the examined genes' transcripts was similarly reduced in heat-stressed oocytes from both models. The in vitro model was reliable and might be relevant for other environmental stressors as well. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Relatively favorable outcome after allogeneic stem cell transplantation for BCR-ABL1-positive AML: A survey from the acute leukemia working party of the European Society for blood and marrow transplantation (EBMT).

PubMed

Lazarevic, Vladimir Lj; Labopin, Myriam; Depei, Wu; Yakoub-Agha, Ibrahim; Huynh, Anne; Ljungman, Per; Schaap, Nicolaas; Cornelissen, Jan J; Maillard, Natacha; Pioltelli, Pietro; Gedde-Dahl, Tobias; Lenhoff, Stig; Houhou, Mohamed; Esteve, Jordi; Mohty, Mohamad; Nagler, Arnon

2018-01-01

The aim of the study was to assess the role of allogeneic stem cell transplantation (SCT) in patients diagnosed with BCR-ABL1-positive acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Fifty-seven patients (median age, 48 years, range: 19-67) with BCR-ABL1 positive AML undergoing SCT were identified. The majority of the patients (70%) received a TKI before the transplant. At SCT 48 patients were in CR (45 in CR1), while 9 patients were transplanted in a more advanced stage of the disease. MRD was negative (BCR-ABL1/ABL < 10 4 ) at time of SCT in 36.1% (14/40). After SCT, 16 (61.5%) out of 26 patients with MRD positive at transplantation reached MRD negativity. After a median follow-up of 6.3 years (0.7-14.2), NRM, RI, LFS, OS, and GRFS at 5 years were 18.1%, 37%, 44.2%, 53.8%, and 32.1%, respectively. The cumulative incidence of acute GvHD grade II-IV was 16.4%, incidence of chronic GvHD 24.9%, and of extensive cGvHD 21.4%, respectively. In patients who received SCT in CR1, 5-yr NRM, RI, LFS, OS, and GRFS were 15.9%, 36.4%, 46.5%, 59.4%, and 34.9%, respectively. Univariate analysis showed that age (<50 vs. ≥50 years) was associated with RI (5-yr: 22.7 vs. 50%), LFS (5-yr: 61.9 vs. 31.8%), and GRFS (5-yr: 52.4 vs. 18.2%), whereas MRD-negative status before SCT was associated with an improved GRFS (38.9 vs. 16.7%). We conclude that the outcome of patients <50 years of age with BCR-ABL1-positive AML receiving allogeneic SCT in CR is relatively favorable, possibly reflecting the beneficial effect of the use of TKI. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Confocal fluorescence assessment of bioenergy/redox status of dromedary camel (Camelus dromedarius) oocytes before and after in vitro maturation.

PubMed

Russo, Roberto; Monaco, Davide; Rubessa, Marcello; El-Bahrawy, Khalid A; El-Sayed, Ashraf; Martino, Nicola A; Beneult, Benedicte; Ciannarella, Francesca; Dell'Aquila, Maria E; Lacalandra, Giovanni M; Filioli Uranio, Manuel

2014-02-18

Reproductive biotechnologies in dromedary camel (Camelus dromedarius) are less developed than in other livestock species. The in vitro maturation (IVM) technology is a fundamental step for in vitro embryo production (IVP), and its optimization could represent a way to increase the success rate of IVP. The aim of the present study was to investigate the bioenergy/oxidative status of dromedary camel oocytes before and after IVM by confocal microscopy 3D imaging. Oocytes were retrieved by slicing ovaries collected at local slaughterhouses. Recovered oocytes were examined before and after IVM culture for nuclear chromatin configuration and bioenergy/oxidative status, expressed as mitochondria (mt) distribution and activity, intracellular Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) levels and distribution and mt/ROS colocalization. The mean recovery rate was 6 oocytes/ovary. After IVM, 61% of oocytes resumed meiosis and 36% reached the Metaphase II stage (MII). Oocyte bioenergy/redox confocal characterization revealed changes upon meiosis progression. Immature oocytes at the germinal vesicle (GV) stage were characterised by prevailing homogeneous mt distribution in small aggregates while MI and MII oocytes showed significantly higher rates of pericortical mt distribution organized in tubular networks (P<0.05). Increased mt activity in MI (P<0.001) and MII (P<0.01) oocytes compared to GV stage oocytes was also observed. At any meiotic stage, homogeneous distribution of intracellular ROS was observed. Intracellular ROS levels also increased in MI (P<0.01) and MII (P<0.05) oocytes compared to GV stage oocytes. The mt/ROS colocalization signal increased in MI oocytes (P<0.05). This study provides indications that qualitative and quantitative indicators of bioenergy and oxidative status in dromedary camel oocytes are modified in relation with oocyte meiotic stage. These data may increase the knowledge of camel oocyte physiology, in order to enhance the efficiency of IVP procedures.

Sequence typing of human adenoviruses isolated from Polish patients subjected to allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation - a single center experience.

PubMed

Przybylski, Maciej; Rynans, Sylwia; Waszczuk-Gajda, Anna; Bilinski, Jarosław; Basak, Grzegorz W; Jędrzejczak, Wiesław W; Wróblewska, Marta; Młynarczyk, Grażyna; Dzieciątkowski, Tomasz

2018-03-28

Human adenoviruses (HAdV) from species A, B and C are commonly recognized as pathogens causing severe morbidity and mortality in hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) recipients. The purpose of the present study was to determine HAdV types responsible for viremia in HSCT recipients at a large tertiary hospital in Poland. Analysis of partial nucleotide sequences of HAdV hexon gene was used to type 40 clinical isolates of HAdV obtained from 40 HSCT recipients. We identified six different HAdV serotypes belonging to species B, C and E. We demonstrated high variability in sequences of detected HAdV types, and patients infected with the same HAdV types were not hospitalized at the same time, which suggests the low possibility of cross-infection. In almost all patients, anti-HAdV antibodies in IgG class were detected, which indicates a history of HAdV infection in the past. Clinical symptoms accompanying HAdV viremia were in 89%, and in 61.5% of individuals, HAdV was a sole pathogen detected. There were no cases with high-level HAdV viremia and severe systemic or organ infections. Graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) was present in patients infected with species B and C, but grade II of GvHD was observed only in patients infected with HAdV-B. The predominance of HAdV-C and common presence of anti-HAdV antibodies in IgG class may strongly suggest that most infections in the present study were reactivations of HAdV persisting into the patient's mucosa-associated lymphoid tissues. Variability of HAdV sequences suggests that cross-infections between patients were very rare. GvHD: graft-versus-host disease; HAdV: human adenoviruses; HSCT: hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

Regulatory T Cells in Chronic Graft-Versus-Host Disease After Extracorporeal Photopheresis: Correlation With Skin and Global Organ Responses, and Ability to Taper Steroids.

PubMed

Denney, Helen A; Whittle, Robert J; Lai, Jennifer; Jacques, Richard M; Taylor, Peter C

2017-01-01

Induction of immune tolerance by an increase in regulatory T (Treg) cells after extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP) is thought to contribute to how ECP exerts its therapeutic effect in patients with chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGvHD). We investigated whether percentages and absolute counts of Treg cells changed post-ECP, and examined correlation with response. Absolute counts and % of CD4+ T cells and Treg cells (CD4 + CD25 + FOXP3 + CD127dim/-) were evaluated using flow cytometry in 32 patients with cGvHD treated by ECP for a minimum of 3 months, and up to 12 months. CD4+ or Treg cells at baseline to 12 months post-ECP were compared with changes in skin disease scores or global organ involvement, or the ability to taper steroids, at 14, 28, and 56 weeks. Regulatory T cells % increased significantly above any overall changes in CD4+ % at 6, 9, and 12 months post-ECP. There was no statistically significant association between Treg cells and skin or steroid response, whereas a larger increase in CD4+ count from baseline to 1 to 3 months corresponded to increased odds of being able to reduce steroid dose by 50% or greater at 14 weeks. Skin and global organ responders at 28 weeks had higher median Treg cell counts 3 months post-ECP than nonresponders, as did steroid responders at 56 weeks who were 12 months post-ECP. Regulatory T cell counts and % varied greatly among cGvHD patients, and the increase post-ECP was not significant until 6 months. No clear correlation was found between Treg cells and clinical improvement, suggesting that increases in Treg cell numbers and/or proportions are not driving the mechanism leading to a response after ECP.

Indirect interactions between arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and Spodoptera exigua alter photosynthesis and plant endogenous hormones.

PubMed

He, Lei; Li, Changyou; Liu, Runjin

2017-08-01

Peanut (Arachis hypogaea Linn. cv: Luhua 11) and tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill. cv: Zhongshu 4) were inoculated with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) Funneliformis mosseae BEG167 (Fm), Rhizophagus intraradices BEG141 (Ri), and Glomus versiforme Berch (Gv), and/or Spodoptera exigua (S. exigua) under greenhouse conditions. Results indicated that feeding by S. exigua had little influence on colonization of peanut plants by AMF, but improved colonization of tomato by Fm and Gv. Feeding by S. exigua had little influence on leaf net photosynthetic rate, transpiration rate, and stomatal conductance of nonmycorrhizal peanut plants but significantly improved net photosynthetic rate and transpiration rate of mycorrhizal plants of both hosts. AMF with or without S. exigua inoculation improved host plant photosynthetic characteristics, growth, and hormone status. Fm showed maximum beneficial effects, followed by Gv. The concentrations and ratios of phytohormones abscisic acid (ABA), indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), gibberellin (GA), zeatin riboside (ZR), and jasmonic acid (JA) in the leaves of the host plants were changed due to the interaction between AMF and S. exigua. Generally, AMF with or without S. exigua inoculation increased the concentrations of GA, ZR, and JA and the ratios of IAA/ABA, GA/ABA, ZR/ABA, and IAA + GA + ZR/ABA, while feeding by S. exigua on nonmycorrhizal plants showed the opposite effect. The concentration of JA in the leaves of peanut and tomato inoculated with Fm or Fm + S. exigua was 1.9 and 1.9 times and 2.5 and 2.7 times, respectively, greater than that of the controls inoculated with neither. There was a negative correlation between the JA concentration and the survival percentage of S. exigua larva. We conclude that indirect interactions between AMF and insect herbivores changed the photosynthetic and hormone characteristics, and ratios of phytohormones, thereby revealing mechanisms of belowground-aboveground interactions.

Human monocyte-derived suppressor cells control graft-versus-host disease by inducing regulatory forkhead box protein 3-positive CD8+ T lymphocytes.

PubMed

Janikashvili, Nona; Trad, Malika; Gautheron, Alexandrine; Samson, Maxime; Lamarthée, Baptiste; Bonnefoy, Francis; Lemaire-Ewing, Stéphanie; Ciudad, Marion; Rekhviashvili, Khatuna; Seaphanh, Famky; Gaugler, Béatrice; Perruche, Sylvain; Bateman, Andrew; Martin, Laurent; Audia, Sylvain; Saas, Philippe; Larmonier, Nicolas; Bonnotte, Bernard

2015-06-01

Adoptive transfer of immunosuppressive cells has emerged as a promising strategy for the treatment of immune-mediated disorders. However, only a limited number of such cells can be isolated from in vivo specimens. Therefore efficient ex vivo differentiation and expansion procedures are critically needed to produce a clinically relevant amount of these suppressive cells. We sought to develop a novel, clinically relevant, and feasible approach to generate ex vivo a subpopulation of human suppressor cells of monocytic origin, referred to as human monocyte-derived suppressive cells (HuMoSCs), which can be used as an efficient therapeutic tool to treat inflammatory disorders. HuMoSCs were generated from human monocytes cultured for 7 days with GM-CSF and IL-6. The immune-regulatory properties of HuMoSCs were investigated in vitro and in vivo. The therapeutic efficacy of HuMoSCs was evaluated by using a graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) model of humanized mice (NOD/SCID/IL-2Rγc(-/-) [NSG] mice). CD33+ HuMoSCs are highly potent at inhibiting the proliferation and activation of autologous and allogeneic effector T lymphocytes in vitro and in vivo. The suppressive activity of these cells depends on signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 activation. Of therapeutic relevance, HuMoSCs induce long-lasting memory forkhead box protein 3-positive CD8+ regulatory T lymphocytes and significantly reduce GvHD induced with human PBMCs in NSG mice. Ex vivo-generated HuMoSCs inhibit effector T lymphocytes, promote the expansion of immunosuppressive forkhead box protein 3-positive CD8+ regulatory T cells, and can be used as an efficient therapeutic tool to prevent GvHD. Copyright © 2015 American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effect of Antioxidants (β-mercaptoethanol and Cysteamine) on Assisted Reproductive Technology In vitro.

PubMed

Nikseresht, Mohsen; Toori, Mehdi Akbartabar; Rahimi, Hamid Reza; Fallahzadeh, Ali Reza; Kahshani, Iraj Ragerdi; Hashemi, Seyedeh Fatemeh; Bahrami, Solmaz; Mahmoudi, Reza

2017-02-01

Oocyte Culture of Germinal Vesicle (GV) and its growth improves Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) invitro and infertility. Inappropriate culture medium environment, low quality of oocytes, increase in Oxidative Stress (OS) events, Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) and free radicals production are the main factors that result in unsuccessful Invitro Maturation (IVM) and decrease in reproduction. The present study was conducted with the aim to evaluate the effect of β-mercaptoethanol (BME) and Cysteamine (CYS) on IVM improvement, embryo fertilization and development of blastocyst of mouse immature oocyte. Oocytes were obtained from 4-6 weeks old Naval Medical Research Institute (NMRI) female mice, 48 hours after stimulation with Intraperitoneal (IP) injection of 10 IU Pregnant Mare Serum Gonadotropin (PMSG). GV oocyte with and without cumulus cells were isolated from ovaries and cultured in Tissue Culture Medium (TCM) 199 with availability of 100 μM of antioxidants (BME and CYS). After 24 hours, mature oocyte in metaphase II (MII) were fertilized with sperm in In vitro Fertilization (IVF) medium (T6) and evaluated for fetal development into blastocyst. BME and CYS could significantly (p<0.05) increase the rate of IVM and oocyte evolution, and embryo formation in medium culture. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that existence of Cumulus Oocyte Complexes (COC) significantly showed better IVM, fertilization and evolution trend as compared to oocytes without cumulus cover or Denuded Oocytes (DO), especially in TCM199 plus BME and CYS. So that the change in GV stage oocytes to MII (maturation rate), fertilization rates or 2PN formation, and two cell embryos formation or blastocyst development rate in the treatment group with addition of BME & CYS and COC was statistically significant as compared to the DO group (p-value < 0.0001). Both cellular and environmental factors could be important and involved in ART improvement.

Ghrelin and NUCB2/Nesfatin-1 expression in unilateral testicular torsion-induced rats with and without N-acetylcysteine.

PubMed

Sarac, M; Bakal, U; Tartar, T; Kuloglu, T; Yardim, M; Artas, G; Aydin, S; Kazez, A

2017-08-15

Testicular torsion (TT) is a common urological problem in the field of pediatric surgery. The degree and duration of torsion determines the degree of testicular damage; however, its effects on the expression of octanoylated ghrelin and nucleobindin 2 (NUCB2) /nesfatin-1 synthetized from testicular tissue remain unclear. We explored the effects of experimentally induced unilateral TT on serum and contralateral testicular tissue ghrelin and NUCB2/nesfatin-1 levels, and determined whether N-acetyl cysteine (NAS) treatment had any effects on their expression. A total of 42 Wistar Albino strain rats were divided into 7 groups: Group (G) I control, GII sham, GIII 12-hour torsion, GIV 12-hour torsion + detorsion + 100 mg/kg NAS, GV 24-hour torsion, GVI 24-hour torsion + detorsion + 100 mg/kg NAS, and GVII 100 mg/kg NAS. Octanoylated ghrelin and NUCB2/nesfatin-1 concentrations were evaluated in serum using the ELISA method and in testicular tissue with immunohistochemical methods. Immunoreactivity of octanoylated ghrelin significantly increased in GI compared to GIII, GV, and GVI (p<0.05). NUCB2/nesfatin-1 immunoreactivity increased in GV and GVIII relative to GI (p<0.05). In the 12-hour torsion group, a significant decrease in octanoylated ghrelin levels with NAS treatment was observed; however, in the 24-hour torsion group, a significant decrease was not observed. In the 12-hour torsion + NAS treatment group, a significant change was not observed in NUCB2/nesfatin-1 expression. Following 24-hour torsion, an increase in NUCB2/nesfatin-1 levels was observed, and NAS treatment did not reverse this increase. It was determined that increases in the expression of octanoylated ghrelin and NUCB2/nesfatin-1, the latter of which was a result of TT, reflect damage in this tissue. Importantly, NAS treatment could prevent this damage. Thus, there may be a clinical application for the combined use of NAS and octanoylated ghrelin in preventing TT-related infertility.

Left lobe living donor liver transplantation in adults: What is the safety limit?

PubMed

Ikegami, Toru; Yoshizumi, Tomoharu; Sakata, Kazuhito; Uchiyama, Hideaki; Harimoto, Norifumi; Harada, Noboru; Itoh, Shinji; Nagatsu, Akihisa; Soejima, Yuji; Maehara, Yoshihiko

2016-12-01

Small-for-size syndrome (SFSS) is the most significant cause of graft loss after living donor liver transplantation (LDLT), especially after left lobe (LL) LDLT in adults. The safety limit of applying LL-LDLT in adults without severe SFSS with a high rate of lethality needs to be determined. A total of 207 LL-LDLTs in adults since September 2005 were evaluated to analyze the risk factors for severe SFSS, defined as a serum total bilirubin concentration of ≥20.0 mg/dL after LDLT. Although there were no significant differences in cumulative graft survival after LDLT between medium grafts (graft volume [GV] to standard liver volume [SLV] ratio ≥ 40.0%), small grafts (35.0% ≤ GV/SLV < 40.0%), and extra small grafts (GV/SLV < 35.0%), patients with severe SFSS showed a significantly lower 5-year graft survival rate than those without (42.9% versus 94.3%, respectively; P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis for severe SFSS after LL-LDLT showed that donor age of ≥48 years (P = 0.01), Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score of ≥ 19 (P < 0.01), and end portal venous pressure of ≥19 mm Hg (P = 0.04) were the significant and independent factors for severe SFSS after LL-LDLT. Within such high-risk subgroups of patients with a donor age of ≥48 years or MELD score of ≥ 19 before LDLT, operative blood loss volume of ≥8.0 L was a risk factor for severe SFSS. LL-LDLT in adults could be indicated and provide acceptable outcomes for the combinations of donors aged < 48 years and recipients with a MELD score of <19. Smaller grafts might yield acceptable outcomes in appropriately selected donor-recipient combinations. Liver Transplantation 22 1666-1675 2016 AASLD. © 2016 by the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases.

[Acupuncture combined with auricular point sticking therapy for post stroke depression:a randomized controlled trial].

PubMed

Zhang, Lin; Zhong, Yan; Quan, Shulin; Liu, Yehui; Shi, Xuehui; Li, Zhenguang; Wang, Jingjing

2017-06-12

To observe the clinical effects of acupuncture combined with auricular point sticking based on the western medication for post stroke depression (PSD). Sixty patients with PSD were randomly assigned into an acupuncture plus auricular application group (a combination group) and a medication group, 30 cases in each one. 20 mg paroxetine hydrochloride was prescribed orally in the medication group, once a day for continuous 8 weeks. Based on the above treatment, 30-minute acupuncture was used in the combination group for 8 weeks at Baihui (GV 20), Sishencong (EX-HN 1), Shenting (GV 24), Yintang (GV 29), Shenmen (HT 7), Neiguan (PC 6), Taichong (LR 3), Hegu (LI 4), Zusanli (ST 36), Sanyinjiao (SP 6) and Fenglong (ST 40), once the other day and three times a week. Auricular point sticking therapy for 8 weeks was applied at shenmen (TF 4 ), pizhixia (AT 4 ), xin (CO 15 ), and gan (CO 12 ), with pressing 3 times a day and once 3-5 days. The total score and each factor scores of Hamilton's depression scale (HAMD) were observed in the two groups before and after treatment, and Asberg's antidepressant side-effect rating scale (SERS) and clinical effect were evaluated. After treatment, the total HAMD scores of the two groups decreased compared with those before treatment (both P <0.05), with better effect in the combination group ( P <0.05). The scores of the combination group after treatment were lower than those in the medication group, including the anxiety/somatization factor, sleep disturbance factor, hopelessness factor (all P <0.05). The total effective rate of the combination group was 86.7% (26/30), which was better than 66.7% (20/30) of the medication group ( P <0.05). The SERS score of the combination group was lower than that of the medication group ( P <0.05). Acupuncture combined with auricular point sticking can improve the clinical symptoms and are effective and safe for PSD.

Confocal fluorescence assessment of bioenergy/redox status of dromedary camel (Camelus dromedarius) oocytes before and after in vitro maturation

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Reproductive biotechnologies in dromedary camel (Camelus dromedarius) are less developed than in other livestock species. The in vitro maturation (IVM) technology is a fundamental step for in vitro embryo production (IVP), and its optimization could represent a way to increase the success rate of IVP. The aim of the present study was to investigate the bioenergy/oxidative status of dromedary camel oocytes before and after IVM by confocal microscopy 3D imaging. Methods Oocytes were retrieved by slicing ovaries collected at local slaughterhouses. Recovered oocytes were examined before and after IVM culture for nuclear chromatin configuration and bioenergy/oxidative status, expressed as mitochondria (mt) distribution and activity, intracellular Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) levels and distribution and mt/ROS colocalization. Results The mean recovery rate was 6 oocytes/ovary. After IVM, 61% of oocytes resumed meiosis and 36% reached the Metaphase II stage (MII). Oocyte bioenergy/redox confocal characterization revealed changes upon meiosis progression. Immature oocytes at the germinal vesicle (GV) stage were characterised by prevailing homogeneous mt distribution in small aggregates while MI and MII oocytes showed significantly higher rates of pericortical mt distribution organized in tubular networks (P < 0.05). Increased mt activity in MI (P < 0.001) and MII (P < 0.01) oocytes compared to GV stage oocytes was also observed. At any meiotic stage, homogeneous distribution of intracellular ROS was observed. Intracellular ROS levels also increased in MI (P < 0.01) and MII (P < 0.05) oocytes compared to GV stage oocytes. The mt/ROS colocalization signal increased in MI oocytes (P < 0.05). Conclusions This study provides indications that qualitative and quantitative indicators of bioenergy and oxidative status in dromedary camel oocytes are modified in relation with oocyte meiotic stage. These data may increase the knowledge of camel oocyte physiology, in order to enhance the efficiency of IVP procedures. PMID:24548378

Inaccurate DNA Synthesis in Cell Extracts of Yeast Producing Active Human DNA Polymerase Iota

PubMed Central

Makarova, Alena V.; Grabow, Corinn; Gening, Leonid V.; Tarantul, Vyacheslav Z.; Tahirov, Tahir H.; Bessho, Tadayoshi; Pavlov, Youri I.

2011-01-01

Mammalian Pol ι has an unusual combination of properties: it is stimulated by Mn2+ ions, can bypass some DNA lesions and misincorporates “G” opposite template “T” more frequently than incorporates the correct “A.” We recently proposed a method of detection of Pol ι activity in animal cell extracts, based on primer extension opposite the template T with a high concentration of only two nucleotides, dGTP and dATP (incorporation of “G” versus “A” method of Gening, abbreviated as “misGvA”). We provide unambiguous proof of the “misGvA” approach concept and extend the applicability of the method for the studies of variants of Pol ι in the yeast model system with different cation cofactors. We produced human Pol ι in baker's yeast, which do not have a POLI ortholog. The “misGvA” activity is absent in cell extracts containing an empty vector, or producing catalytically dead Pol ι, or Pol ι lacking exon 2, but is robust in the strain producing wild-type Pol ι or its catalytic core, or protein with the active center L62I mutant. The signature pattern of primer extension products resulting from inaccurate DNA synthesis by extracts of cells producing either Pol ι or human Pol η is different. The DNA sequence of the template is critical for the detection of the infidelity of DNA synthesis attributed to DNA Pol ι. The primer/template and composition of the exogenous DNA precursor pool can be adapted to monitor replication fidelity in cell extracts expressing various error-prone Pols or mutator variants of accurate Pols. Finally, we demonstrate that the mutation rates in yeast strains producing human DNA Pols ι and η are not elevated over the control strain, despite highly inaccurate DNA synthesis by their extracts. PMID:21304950

[Effect of Acupuncture Intervention on c-jun N-terminal Kinase Signaling in the Hippocampus in Rats with Forced Swimming Stress].

PubMed

Guo, Yu; Xu, Ke; Bao, Wu-ye; Wang, Yu; Zhang, Xu-hui; Xu, Ming-min; Yu, Miao; Zhang, Chun-tao; Zhao, Bing-cong; Wu, Ji-hong; Tu, Ya

2016-02-01

To observe the effect of acupuncture on c-jun N-terminal Kinase (JNK) signaling in the hippocampus in rats with forced-swimming stress, so as to reveal its underlying mechanism in relieving depression-like motor response. Forty-eight Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into 8 groups as control, control + JNK inhibitor (SP 600125) , model, model + SP 600125, acupuncture, acupuncture + SP 600125, Fluoxetine (an anti-depressant) , and Fluoxetine + SP 600125 (n = 6 in each group). The depression-like behavior (immobility) model was established by forcing the rat to swim in a glass-cylinder and solitary raise. Acupuncture stimulation was applied to "Baihui" (GV-20) and "Yintang" (GV 29) for 20 min before forced swimming and once again 24 h later.. The rats of the Fluoxetine and Fluoxetine+ SP 600125 groups were treated by intragastric administration of fluoxetine 10 mL (1.8 mg)/kg before forced swimming and once again 24 h thereafter. The rats of the model + SP 600125 and acupuncture + SP 600125 groups were treated by intraperitoneal injection of SP 600125 (10 mg/kg) 90 min before forced swimming and 30 min before acupuncture intervention, respectively. The immobility duration of rats in the water glass-cylinder was used to assess their depression-like behavior response. The expression levels of protein kinase kinase 4 (MKK 4), MKK 7, JNK, and phosphorylated JNK (p-JNK) in the hippocampus were detected by Western blot. Compared to the control group, the duration of immobility, and the expression levels of hippocampal MKK 4, MKK 7, and p-JNK proteins were significantly increased in the model group (P < 0.01). While in comparison with the model group, the duration of immobility in the model + SP 600125, acupuncture, acupuncture + SP 600125, Fluoxetine and Fluoxetine + SP 600125 groups, the expression levels of hippocampal MKK 4 and MKK 7 proteins in the Fluoxetine + SP 600125 group, and those of p-JNK protein in the acupuncture, acupuncture + SP 600125, model + SP 600125, Fluoxetine and Fluoxetine + SP 600125 groups were considerably decreased (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). No significant differences were found between the control and control + SP 600125 groups and among the model + SP 600125, acupuncture, acupuncture + SP 600125, Fluoxetine and Fluoxetine + SP 600125 groups in the duration of immobility (P > 0.05), and in the expression level of p-JNK protein (P > 0.05). No significant changes were found in the expression levels of JNK among the 8 groups (P > 0.05). Acupuncture stimulation of GV 20 and GV 29 is effective in relieving depression-like motor response in forced-swimming stress rats, which may be closely associated with its effects in down-regulating the expression of hippocampal p-JNK protein.

Age Differences and Educational Attainment across the Life Span on Three Generations of Wechsler Adult Scales

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kaufman, A. S.; Salthouse, T. A.; Scheiber, C.; Chen, H.

2016-01-01

Patterns of maintenance of ability across the life span have been documented on tests of knowledge ("Gc"), as have patterns of steady decline on measures of reasoning ("Gf/Gv"), working memory ("Gsm"), and speed ("Gs"). Whether these patterns occur at the same rate for adults from different educational…

The Structure of Branching Onsets and Rising Diphthongs: Evidence from the Acquisition of French and Spanish

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kehoe, Margaret; Hilaire-Debove, Geraldine; Demuth, Katherine; Lleo, Conxita

2008-01-01

Consonant-glide-vowel (CGV) sequences are represented differently across languages. In some languages, the CG sequence is represented as a branching onset; in other languages, the GV sequence is represented as a rising diphthong. Given variable syllabification across languages, this study examines how young children represent CGV sequences. In…

Down-Looking Interferometer Study II, Volume I,

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-03-01

g(standard deviation of AN )(standard deviation of(3) where T’rm is the "reference spectrum", an estimate of the actual spectrum v gv T ’V Cgv . If jpj...spectrum T V . cgv . According to Eq. (2), Z is the standard deviation of the observed contrast spectral radiance AN divided by the effective rms system

george resume.1/5/93

Science.gov Websites

; A. Buffington, L. Smith, L. Alvarez, G. Smoot, and M. Wahlig, Paper Cl 3, Proceedings of the Joint Above 5 GV/c of Elements from Hydrogen to Iron," L.H. Smith, A. Buffington, G.F. Smoot, L. Alvarez . Smoot, and L. Sompayrac, Physical Review Letters 31, 13, 847 (1973) 8. "Measurements of the

Molecular analysis of an enhancin gene in the Lymantria dispar nuclear polyhedrosis virus

Treesearch

David S. Bischoff; James M. Slavicek

1997-01-01

A Lymantria dispar nuclear polyhedrosis virus (LdMNPV) gene has been identified that encodes a homolog to the granulovirus (GV) enhancin proteins that are capable of enhancing the infection of other baculoviruses. Enhancin genes have been identified and sequenced for three species of GVs but have not been found in any other nuclear...

A Meta-Analysis of the Effects of Desegregation on Academic Achievement.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Krol, Ronald A.

Using meta analysis techniques from a 1977 article by G.V. Glass, this study sought to determine the effects of desegregation on academic achievement when students were grouped by academic subject, grade level, and length of desegregation. Data were obtained from 71 studies (conducted between 1955 and 1977) concerned with the effects of…

On total irregularity strength of caterpillar graphs with two leaves on each internal vertex

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rosyida, I.; Widodo; Indriati, D.

2018-04-01

Let G(V, E) be a graph. A function f from V(G)\\cup E(G) to the set {1, 2, …, k} is said to be a totally irregular total k-labeling of G if the weights of any two different vertices x and y in V (G) satisfy {w}f(x)\

Role of the PY Motif Containing Protein, WBP-2 in ER, PR Signaling and Breast Tumorigenesis

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-03-01

implicated in many diseases, including muscular dystrophy , Liddle’s syndrome, Alzheimer’s, Huntington disease and Cancers [16, 31, 35, 75]. Many...of nuclear receptor movement and tran- scription. Biochim Biophys Acta 1677:46–51 5. Nagaich AK, Rayasam GV, Martinez ED, Becker M, Qiu Y, Johnson TA

Effects of acupuncture and computer-assisted cognitive training for post-stroke attention deficits: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Huang, Jia; McCaskey, Michael A; Yang, Shanli; Ye, Haicheng; Tao, Jing; Jiang, Cai; Schuster-Amft, Corina; Balzer, Christian; Ettlin, Thierry; Schupp, Wilfried; Kulke, Hartwig; Chen, Lidian

2015-12-02

A majority of stroke survivors present with cognitive impairments. Attention disturbance, which leads to impaired concentration and overall reduced cognitive functions, is strongly associated with stroke. The clinical efficacy of acupuncture with Baihui (GV20) and Shenting (GV24) as well as computer-assisted cognitive training in stroke and post-stroke cognitive impairment have both been demonstrated in previous studies. To date, no systematic comparison of these exists and the potential beneficial effects of a combined application are yet to be examined. The main objective of this pilot study is to evaluate the effects of computer-assisted cognitive training compared to acupuncture on the outcomes of attention assessments. The second objective is to test the effects of a combined cognitive intervention that incorporates computer-assisted cognitive training and acupuncture (ACoTrain). An international multicentre, single-blinded, randomised controlled pilot trial will be conducted. In a 1:1:1 ratio, 60 inpatients with post-stroke cognitive dysfunction will be randomly allocated into either the acupuncture group, the computer-assisted cognitive training group, or the ACoTrain group in addition to their individual rehabilitation programme. The intervention period of this pilot trial will last 4 weeks (30 minutes per day, 5 days per week, Monday to Friday). The primary outcome is the test battery for attentional performance. The secondary outcomes include the Trail Making Test, Test des Deux Barrages, National Institute of Health Stroke Scale, and Modified Barthel Index for assessment of daily life competence, and the EuroQol Questionnaire for health-related quality of life. This trial mainly focuses on evaluating the effects of computer-assisted cognitive training compared to acupuncture on the outcomes of attention assessments. The results of this pilot trial are expected to provide new insights on how Eastern and Western medicine can complement one another and improve the treatment of cognitive impairments in early stroke rehabilitation. Including patients with different cultural backgrounds allows a more generalisable interpretation of the results but also poses risks of performance bias. Using standardised and well-described assessments, validated for each region, is pivotal to allow pooling of the data. Clinical Trails.gov ID: NCT02324959 (8 December 2014).

Whole genome sequencing and analyses of Xylella fastidiosa subsp. fastidiosa strain GV156 causing Pierce’s disease of grapevine in Taiwan

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Xylella fastidiosa is a nutritionally fastidious Gram-negative bacterium causing Pierce’s disease (PD) of grapevines. PD was first reported in Anaheim, California in 1892 and is currently endemic in California and the southeastern U.S. PD also was found outside the U.S. but is limited to the America...

Improving the performance of the Granulosis virus of Codling moth (Lepidoptera: Tortricideae) by adding the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae with sugar

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Studies evaluated the effectiveness of adding Saccharomyces cerevisiae with brown cane sugar (sugar) to the codling moth granulosis virus, CpGV, to improve larval control of Cydia pomonella (L.), on apple. Neither the use of the yeast or sugar alone caused larval mortality greater than the water con...

Smallpox: Is the Department of Defense Prepared?

DTIC Science & Technology

2003-01-01

ESSENCE Electronic Surveillance System for Early Notification of Community-Based Epidemics EV Eczema vaccinatum FDA Food and Drug Administration GV...polymorphism TK Thymidine kinase viii USAMRIID U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases VIG Vaccinia immunoglobulin WMD Weapons of mass...known as vaccinia immunoglobulin (VIG) and the introduction of serologic testing for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The Department of Defense (DoD

Effects of Age and Schooling on Intellectual Performance: Estimates Obtained from Analysis of Continuous Variation in Age and Length of Schooling

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cliffordson, Christina; Gustafsson, Jan-Eric

2008-01-01

The effects of age and schooling on different aspects of intellectual performance, taking track of study into account, are investigated. The analyses were based on military enlistment test scores, obtained by 48,269 males, measuring Fluid ability (Gf), Crystallized intelligence (Gc), and General visualization (Gv) ability. A regression method,…

Revisiting the Relations between the WJ-IV Measures of Cattell-Horn-Carroll (CHC) Cognitive Abilities and Reading Achievement during the School-Age Years

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cormier, Damien C.; McGrew, Kevin S.; Bulut, Okan; Funamoto, Allyson

2017-01-01

This study examined associations between broad cognitive abilities (Fluid Reasoning [Gf], Short-Term Working Memory [Gwm], Long-Term Storage and Retrieval [Glr], Processing Speed [Gs], Comprehension-Knowledge [Gc], Visual Processing [Gv], and Auditory Processing [Ga]) and reading achievement (Basic Reading Skills, Reading Rate, Reading Fluency,…

Is Working Memory Fractionated onto Different Components of Intelligence? A Reply to Mackintosh and Bennett (2003)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Colom, Roberto; Shih, Pei Chun

2004-01-01

A study was conducted in which 226 participants performed 12 tests, 6 thought to reflect verbal, quantitative, and spatial working memory (WM), and 6 of crystallized (Gc), fluid (Gf), and spatial (Gv) cognitive abilities. Confirmatory factor analyses (CFAs) were computed to test the unitary nature of the WM system. Six primary latent factors were…

Coverage Predictions and Selection Criteria for Satellite Constellations.

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-12-01

of R.AI (51.50 at a Sop, of 47.9 ° , with DMi n - 00) than the pattern 10/5/2 listed here. Pattern 10/10/7 has been listed by Mozhaev I and Ballard...Mazaika 1-8,(1980) I G.V. Mozhaev The problem of continuous earth coverage and kinematically regular satellite networks. II. Kosmci . iss’ed., I, I, 59

Generation of eggs from mouse embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells.

PubMed

Hayashi, Katsuhiko; Saitou, Mitinori

2013-08-01

Oogenesis is an integrated process through which an egg acquires the potential for totipotency, a fundamental condition for creating new individuals. Reconstitution of oogenesis in a culture that generates eggs with proper function from pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) is therefore one of the key goals in basic biology as well as in reproductive medicine. Here we describe a stepwise protocol for the generation of eggs from mouse PSCs, such as embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). ESCs and iPSCs are first induced into primordial germ cell-like cells (PGCLCs) that are in turn aggregated with somatic cells of female embryonic gonads, the precursors for adult ovaries. Induction of PGCLCs followed by aggregation with the somatic cells takes up to 8 d. The aggregations are then transplanted under the ovarian bursa, in which PGCLCs grow into germinal vesicle (GV) oocytes in ∼1 month. The PGCLC-derived GV oocytes can be matured into eggs in 1 d by in vitro maturation (IVM), and they can be fertilized with spermatozoa by in vitro fertilization (IVF) to obtain healthy and fertile offspring. This method provides an initial step toward reconstitution of the entire process of oogenesis in vitro.

Phosphate cycling on the basic protein of Plodia interpunctella granulosis virus

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Funk, C. J.; Consigli, R. A.; Spooner, B. S. (Principal Investigator)

1993-01-01

The presence of infected cell-specific phosphoproteins was investigated in Plodia interpunctella granulosis virus (PiGV)-infected fat body using [32P]orthophosphoric acid labeling. One infected cell-specific phosphoprotein had a mobility similar to that of the basic protein (VP12) of PiGV. Further analysis, using immunoblotting and acid-urea gel analysis of infected fat body, confirmed that this phosphoprotein was VP12. However we did not detect phosphorylated VP12 in 32P-labeled nucleocapsids. Phosphoamino acid analysis of 32P-labeled VP12 revealed that phosphoserine was present in the basic protein. Since VP12 is phosphorylated in the infected cell, but not in the nucleocapsid, it appears that dephosphorylation of VP12 is a critical event in the life cycle of the virus. We therefore assayed virus nucleocapsids and infected fat body for the presence of phosphatase activity. Phosphatase activity was not detected in the virus, but the infected fat body had more activity than uninfected fat body. A model for nucleocapsid assembly and uncoating is presented which takes into account the phosphorylation state of VP12, the role of Zn2+ in the nucleocapsid, and the role of the capsid-associated kinase.

Balloon-occluded Retrograde Transvenous Obliteration (BRTO): Preprocedural Evaluation and Imaging

PubMed Central

Al-Osaimi, Abdullah M. S.; Sabri, Saher S.; Caldwell, Stephen H.

2011-01-01

Patients undergoing balloon retrograde transvenous obliteration (BRTO) are mostly decompensated cirrhotic with either bleeding gastric varices (GV) or hepatic encephalopathy. It is crucial that clinicians are up-to-date with the assessments needed prior to BRTO to anticipate and prevent complications, and to deliver critical quality care. These patients will require preprocedural assessments and management, including endoscopic, clinical, laboratory, and imaging evaluation. Endoscopic evaluation is mandatory prior to BRTO, and it is highly recommended that it be performed at the same institution where BRTO will be performed. It is essential that clinicians are aware of the potential benefits and complications that may result from BRTO. These complications should be anticipated and prevented when possible. For GV bleeders, there should be consideration of a transvenous intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) during or before BRTO in patients with refractory ascites or pleural effusion, as well as endoscopic banding or a TIPS in patients with high-risk esophageal varices. Patients undergoing BRTO are usually complicated and require a team approach. In this article, the authors address these assessment and preparatory management and planning procedures prior to the BRTO procedure as well as expected outcomes and potential complications. PMID:22942546

Point contact Andreev reflection spectroscopic (PCARS) studies on 122-type iron-based superconductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lu, Xin; Park, W. K.; Greene, L. H.; Yuan, H. Q.; Chen, G. F.; Luo, G. L.; Wang, N. L.; Sefat, A. S.; McGuire, M. A.; Jin, R.; Sales, B. C.; Mandrus, D.; Gillett, J.; Sebastian, S. E.

2010-03-01

PCARS is applied to investigate the superconducting gap in iron pnictide single crystal superconductors of the AFe2As2 (A=Ba, Sr) family with two categories of G(V) curves observed [1]: one where Andreev reflection (AR) is present for (Ba0.6K0.4)Fe2As2 and Ba(Fe0.9Co0.1)2As2, and the other without AR but a V^2/3 shape for Sr0.6Na0.4Fe2As2 and Sr(Fe0.9Co0.1)2As2. The latter is also observed in the nonsuperconducting parent compound BaFe2As2. Mesoscopic phase-separated coexistence of magnetic and superconducting orders is considered to explain distinct behaviors. A gap size ˜3.0-4.0 meV with 2δ0/kBTc˜2.0-2.6 is observed for PCARS on Ba0.6K0.4Fe2As2. For the Ba(Fe0.9Co0.1)2As2, G(V) curves typically display a zero-bias conductance peak, sometimes with a V-shape background. [1] Xin Lu et al., arXiv:0910.4230

Lost in Fathoms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tondeur, Anaïs; Chomaz, Jean-Marc

2014-11-01

In 2012, at the very point where two continents collided, the island of Nuuk disappeared without trace. At the same time, in Brisbane, the 34th International Geological Congress advanced a new era-the Anthropocene: an age where mankind has become a global telluric force. Was the disappearance of Nuuk island a one-off or a direct consequence of the emergence of the Anthropocene? This project was developed during a year of research as an artist-in-residence at LadHyX and has evolved from an expedition of the emergent part of the Mid-Atlantic ridge and the region of deep oceanic water dive. This talk will present Lost In fathoms a narratives composed of installations, drawings and photographs by the means of which we investigate the causes involved in the disappearance of Nuuk island. It challenges the perception of oceanic and geologic time scales and human's impact on the environment. This project is exhibited from October 16th to November 29th 2014, at GV Art Gallery in London, a contemporary art gallery devoted to art and science shows. Acknowledgment: GV Art Gallery London, Chaire DDX École Polytechnique, LaSIPS Université Paris-Saclay.

The phosphodiesterase 3 inhibitor ORG 9935 inhibits oocyte maturation in the naturally selected dominant follicle in rhesus macaques.

PubMed

Jensen, Jeffrey T; Zelinski, Mary B; Stanley, Jessica E; Fanton, John W; Stouffer, Richard L

2008-04-01

The study was conducted to determine whether the phosphodiesterase (PDE) 3 inhibitor ORG 9935 prevents the resumption of meiosis in primate oocytes during natural menstrual cycles. Regularly cycling adult female macaques (n=8) were followed during the follicular phase and then started on a 2-day treatment regimen of human recombinant gonadotropins to control the timing of ovulation. Monkeys received no further treatment (controls) or ORG 9935. Oocytes were recovered by laparoscopic follicle aspiration 27 h after an ovulatory stimulus, cultured in vitro in the absence of inhibitor and inseminated. The primary outcome was the meiotic stage of the oocyte. In six ORG 9935 cycles, five of the recovered oocytes were germinal vesicle (GV)-intact, and one exhibited GV breakdown (GVBD). In contrast, all three oocytes that recovered during control cycles were GVBD (p<.05). None of the ORG 9935-treated oocytes underwent fertilization compared with 2/3 (67%) from controls. These results demonstrate that ORG 9935 blocks resumption of meiosis in the naturally selected dominant follicle in primates and suggest that PDE3 inhibitors have potential clinical use as contraceptives in women.

Nonlinear ultrasound imaging of nanoscale acoustic biomolecules

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maresca, David; Lakshmanan, Anupama; Lee-Gosselin, Audrey; Melis, Johan M.; Ni, Yu-Li; Bourdeau, Raymond W.; Kochmann, Dennis M.; Shapiro, Mikhail G.

2017-02-01

Ultrasound imaging is widely used to probe the mechanical structure of tissues and visualize blood flow. However, the ability of ultrasound to observe specific molecular and cellular signals is limited. Recently, a unique class of gas-filled protein nanostructures called gas vesicles (GVs) was introduced as nanoscale (˜250 nm) contrast agents for ultrasound, accompanied by the possibilities of genetic engineering, imaging of targets outside the vasculature and monitoring of cellular signals such as gene expression. These possibilities would be aided by methods to discriminate GV-generated ultrasound signals from anatomical background. Here, we show that the nonlinear response of engineered GVs to acoustic pressure enables selective imaging of these nanostructures using a tailored amplitude modulation strategy. Finite element modeling predicted a strongly nonlinear mechanical deformation and acoustic response to ultrasound in engineered GVs. This response was confirmed with ultrasound measurements in the range of 10 to 25 MHz. An amplitude modulation pulse sequence based on this nonlinear response allows engineered GVs to be distinguished from linear scatterers and other GV types with a contrast ratio greater than 11.5 dB. We demonstrate the effectiveness of this nonlinear imaging strategy in vitro, in cellulo, and in vivo.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: GV galaxies UV-optical radial color profiles (Pan+, 2014)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pan, Z.; Li, J.; Lin, W.; Wang, J.; Kong, X.

2017-04-01

Our parent sample is drawn from Schawinski et al. (2014MNRAS.440..889S), which contains ~46000 galaxies at the redshift range of z = [0.02, 0.05]. This sample is magnitude completed to Mz, Petro = -19.5 AB mag and with Galaxy Zoo (Lintott 2008MNRAS.389.1179L; 2011, J/MNRAS/410/166) visual morphological classifications (http://data.galaxyzoo.org/). The stellar masses are derived by fitting the five SDSS photometric bands to a library of 6.8x106 models of star formation histories generated from Maraston et al. (1998MNRAS.300..872M; 2005MNRAS.362..799M) stellar models. We follow the process of Schawinski et al. (2014MNRAS.440..889S) to select GV galaxies. First, the galaxies are k-corrected to z = 0 using the KCORRECT code of Blanton & Roweis (2007AJ....133..734B) with the SDSS five broadband photometry. Then, the magnitudes are corrected for dust reddening using estimates of internal extinction from the stellar continuum fits by Oh et al. (2011ApJS..195...13O), applying the Cardelli et al. (1989ApJ...345..245C) law. (2 data files).

Global parameter optimization of a Mather-type plasma focus in the framework of the Gratton-Vargas two-dimensional snowplow model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Auluck, S. K. H.

2014-12-01

Dense plasma focus (DPF) is known to produce highly energetic ions, electrons and plasma environment which can be used for breeding short-lived isotopes, plasma nanotechnology and other material processing applications. Commercial utilization of DPF in such areas would need a design tool that can be deployed in an automatic search for the best possible device configuration for a given application. The recently revisited (Auluck 2013 Phys. Plasmas 20 112501) Gratton-Vargas (GV) two-dimensional analytical snowplow model of plasma focus provides a numerical formula for dynamic inductance of a Mather-type plasma focus fitted to thousands of automated computations, which enables the construction of such a design tool. This inductance formula is utilized in the present work to explore global optimization, based on first-principles optimality criteria, in a four-dimensional parameter-subspace of the zero-resistance GV model. The optimization process is shown to reproduce the empirically observed constancy of the drive parameter over eight decades in capacitor bank energy. The optimized geometry of plasma focus normalized to the anode radius is shown to be independent of voltage, while the optimized anode radius is shown to be related to capacitor bank inductance.

First results from comparison of rainfall estimations by GPM IMERG with rainfall measurements from the WegenerNet high density network

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oo, Sungmin; Foelsche, Ulrich; Kirchengast, Gottfried; Fuchsberger, Jürgen

2016-04-01

The research level products of the Integrated Multi-Satellite Retrievals for Global Precipitation Measurement (IMERG "Final" run datasets) were compared with rainfall measurements from the WegenerNet high density network as part of ground validation (GV) projects of GPM missions. The WegenerNet network comprises 151 ground level weather stations in an area of 15 km × 20 km in south-eastern Austria (Feldbach region, ˜46.93° N, ˜15.90° E) designed to serve as a long-term monitoring and validation facility for weather and climate research and applications. While the IMERG provides rainfall estimations every half hour at 0.1° resolution, the WegenerNet network measures rainfall every 5 minutes at around 2 km2 resolution and produces 200 m × 200 m gridded datasets. The study was conducted on the domain of the WegenerNet network; eight IMERG grids are overlapped with the network, two of which are entirely covered by the WegenerNet (40 and 39 stations in each grid). We investigated data from April to September of the years 2014 to 2015; the date of first two years after the launch of the GPM Core Observatory. Since the network has a flexibility to work with various spatial and temporal scales, the comparison could be conducted on average-points to pixel basis at both sub-daily and daily timescales. This presentation will summarize the first results of the comparison and future plans to explore the characteristics of errors in the IMERG datasets.

New York State Educational Programs That Work. Sharing Successful Programs, 1990 Edition.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

New York State Education Dept., Albany.

Sharing Successful Programs (SSP) is a national dissemination process for validating, sharing, and implementing successful educational programs. It offers effective strategies for educational improvement by sharing validated programs and provides a cost-effective way for school districts to duplicate validated programs in accordance with their…

[Effect of Moxibustion on Learning-memory Ability and Hippocampal Amyloid beta Protein Overexpression in Mild Cognitive Impairment Rats].

PubMed

Zhu, Cai-feng; Sun, Jian-jian; Han, Wei; Yang, Jun

2016-04-01

To observe the effect of moxibustion of "Baihui" (GV 20), etc. on learning-memory ability, hip- pocampal amyloid beta (AP) protein expression and immune activity in mild cognitive impairment (MCI) rats, so as to reveal its mechanism underlying improving cognitive impairment. A total of 48 SD rats were randomly divided into normal, model, moxibustion, and medication groups (n = 12 in each group). The MCI model was established by intraperitoneal injection of 2 mL mixture solution containing D-galactose (120 mg - kg- - d-) and Sodium Nitrite (90 mg x kg(-1) x d(-1)), once daily for 40 days. Moxibustion (separated by Radix Aconiti Praeparata cake) was applied to "Baihui" (GV 20), "Fengfu" (GV 16) and "Dazhui" (GV 14) for 20 min, once daily for 2 weeks, with one day's rest between two weeks. The rats of the medication group were given with Nimodipine (2 mg x kg(-1) x d(-1), t.i.d.) by lavage for 2 weeks (except Sundays). The learning-memory ability was detected by Morris maze water swimming tasks. The expression level of hippocampal AP protein was detected by immunohistochemistry, and those of hippocampal presenilin-1 (PS-1) mRNA and cleaving enzyme (BACE-1) mRNA were detected by real time-PCR, and serum IL-6 level was assayed by ELISA. Following modeling, the average escape latency of location navigation tests of Morris maze water swimming tests, the expression levels of hippocampal Abeta protein, PS-1 mRNA and BACE-1 mRNA, and serum IL-6 content were significantly increased in the model group( P<0.01) , while the target-platform crossing times and the percentage of target-quadrant swimming duration of spacial probe trials were remarkably decreased in the model group (P<0.01). After moxibustion, the increased escape latency, hippocampal AP protein, PS-i mHNA and BACE-1 mRNA ex- pression and serum IL-6 content, and the decreased target-platform crossing times and the percentage of target-quadrant swim- ming duration were reversed in both moxibustion and medication groups (P<0.01). The effects of the moxibustion group were obviously superior to those of the medication group in decreasing the escape latency, and in up-regulating the target-platform crossing times, the percentage of target-quadrant swimming duration, and down-regulating hippocampal Abeta protein, PS-1 mHNA and BACE-1 mRNA expression levels and serum IL-6 content (P<0.05). Moxibustion is effective in improving MCI rats' learning-memory ability, which may be associated with its functions in down-regulating the levels of hippocampal Abeta protein, PS-1 mRNA and BACE-1 mRNA expression and serum IL-6 content, possibly by blocking Abeta overexpression-induced inflammation cascade.

Super local edge antimagic total coloring of {P}_{n}\\vartriangleright H

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yuli Kurniawati, Elsa; Hesti Agustin, Ika; Dafik; Alfarisi, Ridho

2018-04-01

In this paper, we consider that all graphs are finite, simple and connected. Let G(V, E) be a graph of vertex set V and edge set E. A bijection f:V(G)\\to \\{1,2,3,\\ldots,|V(G)|\\} is called a local edge antimagic labeling if for any two adjacent edges e 1 and e 2, w({e}1)\

Toward a Typology of Abusive Women: Differences between Partner-Only and Generally Violent Women in the Use of Violence

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Babcock, Julia C.; Miller, Sarah A.; Siard, Cheryl

2003-01-01

Based on previous typologies of domestically violent men (Holtzworth-Munroe & Stuart, 1994), women who were referred to a treatment agency for abusive behavior (N = 52) were categorized into two groups based on the breadth of their use of violence: Partner-Only (PO) and Generally Violent (GV). PO women were hypothesized to use reactive violence,…

Early Support of Intracranial Perfusion

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-10-01

products to be thawed or otherwise processed to supply coagulation factors such as plasma and platelets in near equivalence with red cells. 8 During...Can pre-hospital patient VS predict injury and intervention? Hu P, Mackenzie C, Dutton R, Sen A, Floccare D, Bochicchio G, Xiao Y, Spearman J...GV, Bochicchio K, Xiao Y, Spearman J, Scalea T. American Telemedicine Association Annual meeting, April, 2008 Challenges in developing real-time

Indicators of burn severity at extended temporal scales: a decade of ecosystem response in mixed-conifer forests of western Montana

Treesearch

Sarah A. Lewis; Andrew T. Hudak; Peter R. Robichaud; Penelope Morgan; Kevin L. Satterberg; Eva K. Strand; Alistair M. S. Smith; Joseph A. Zamudio; Leigh B. Lentile

2017-01-01

We collected field and remotely sensed data spanning 10 years after three 2003 Montana wildfires to monitor ecological change across multiple temporal and spatial scales. Multiple endmember spectral mixture analysis was used to create post-fire maps of: char, soil, green (GV) and non-photosynthetic (NPV) vegetation from high-resolution 2003 hyperspectral (HS) and 2007...

Beyond Punnett Squares: Student Word Association and Explanations of Phenotypic Variation through an Integrative Quantitative Genetics Unit Investigating Anthocyanin Inheritance and Expression in "Brassica rapa" Fast Plants

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Batzli, Janet M.; Smith, Amber R.; Williams, Paul H.; McGee, Seth A.; Dosa, Katalin; Pfammatter, Jesse

2014-01-01

Genetics instruction in introductory biology is often confined to Mendelian genetics and avoids the complexities of variation in quantitative traits. Given the driving question "What determines variation in phenotype (Pv)? (Pv=Genotypic variation Gv + environmental variation Ev)," we developed a 4-wk unit for an inquiry-based laboratory…

Anti-CMV-IgG Positivity of Donors Is Beneficial for alloHSCT Recipients with Respect to the Better Short-Term Immunological Recovery and High Level of CD4+CD25high Lymphocytes

PubMed Central

Jaskula, Emilia; Dlubek, Dorota; Tarnowska, Agnieszka; Lange, Janusz; Mordak-Domagala, Monika; Suchnicki, Krzysztof; Sedzimirska, Mariola; Borowik, Agata; Mizia, Sylwia; Lange, Andrzej

2015-01-01

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation from anti-cytomegalovirus immunoglobulin G (anti-CMV-IgG) positive donors facilitated immunological recovery post-transplant, which may indicate that chronic CMV infection has an effect on the immune system. This can be seen in the recipients after reconstitution with donor lymphocytes. We evaluated the composition of lymphocytes at hematologic recovery in 99 patients with hematologic malignancies post hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Anti-CMV-IgG seropositivity of the donor was associated with higher proportions of CD4+ (227.963 ± 304.858 × 106 vs. 102.050 ± 17.247 × 106 cells/L, p = 0.009) and CD4+CD25high (3.456 ± 0.436 × 106 vs. 1.589 ± 0.218 × 106 cells/L, p = 0.003) lymphocytes in the blood at hematologic recovery. The latter parameter exerted a diverse influence on the risk of acute graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) if low (1.483 ± 0.360 × 106 vs. 3.778 ± 0.484 × 106 cells/L, p < 0.001) and de novo chronic GvHD (cGvHD) if high (3.778 ± 0.780 × 106 vs. 2.042 ± 0.261 × 106 cells/L, p = 0.041). Higher values of CD4+ lymphocytes in patients who received transplants from anti-CMV-IgG-positive donors translated into a reduced demand for IgG support (23/63 vs. 19/33, p = 0.048), and these patients also exhibited reduced susceptibility to cytomegalovirus (CMV), Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) and/or human herpes 6 virus (HHV6) infection/reactivation (12/50 vs. 21/47, p = 0.032). Finally, high levels (≥0.4%) of CD4+CD25high lymphocytes were significantly associated with better post-transplant survival (56% vs. 38%, four-year survival, p = 0.040). Donors who experience CMV infection/reactivation provide the recipients with lymphocytes, which readily reinforce the recovery of the transplanted patients’ immune system. PMID:25807050

[Effect of electroacupuncture intervention on expression of extracellular matrix collagen and metabolic enzymes].

PubMed

Liao, Jun; Zhang, Le; Ke, Mei-gui; Xu, Teng

2013-12-01

To observe the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) at "Dazhui" (GV 14) on the contents of extracellular matrix (ECM), collagen type II (COL-II), collagen type V (COL-V), matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-13, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)-1 in rats with cervicovertebral disc degeneration so as to explore its mechanism underlying relief of intervertebral disc degeneration. A total of 28 SD rats were randomly divided into sham group (n = 7), model group (n = 7), EA group (n = 7) and medication group (n = 7). The model of cervical intervertebral disc degeneration was established by trans-section of the deep neck splenius, the longest muscles of head, neck costocervicalis, head semi-spinatus muscle, supraspinous ligament and interspinal ligaments of cervical 2-7 segments, etc. to produce imbalance between the dynamic and static force. EA was applied to "Dazhui" (GV 14) for 30 min, once daily for 28 days, with a 2 days' interval between two courses. Animals of the medication group were treated by oral administration of meloxicam tablets (0.75 mg/kg) once daily for 28 days, with a 2 days' interval between two courses. Immunohistochemistry was used to measure the expression of ECM, COL- II, COL-V, MMP-13 and TIMP-1 in the cervicovertebral disc tissue. Compared with the sham group, the expression levels of ECM and COL-II proteins in the cervicovertebral disc tissue were significantly decreased in the model group (P < 0.01), while COL-V and MMP-13 expression levels in the model group were significantly increased (P < 0.01, P < 0.05). Compared with the model group, both ECM and COL-Il expression levels were considerably increased in the EA group and medication group (P < 0.01), while COL-V and MMP-13 expression levels were considerably down-regulated (P < 0.01, P < 0.05). No significant differences were found among the four groups in TIMP-1 expression levels (P > 0.05). EA of "Dazhui" (GV 14) can effectively regulate extracellular matrix system in rats with cervical intervertebral disc degeneration, which is possibly related to its effect in relieving cervical spondylosis.

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

Loznikov, V. M., E-mail: loznikov@yandex.ru; Erokhin, N. S., E-mail: nerokhin@mx.iki.rssi.ru; Zol’nikova, N. N.

A three-component phenomenological model for the description of specific features of spectra of cosmic-ray protons and helium nuclei in the hardness range from 30 to 2 × 10{sup 5} GV is proposed. The first component corresponds to the constant background; the second component, to a variable “soft” (30–500 GV) heliospheric source; and the third component, to a variable “hard” (0.5–200 TV) galactic source inside a local bubble. The corresponding “surfatron accelerators” are responsible for the existence and variability of both sources. In order for such accelerators to operate, there should be an extended area with a nearly uniform and constantmore » (in both the magnitude and direction) magnetic field and electromagnetic waves propagating perpendicular (or obliquely) to it. The dimensions of each source determine the maximum energy to which cosmic rays can be accelerated. The soft source with a size of ∼100 au lies at the periphery of the heliosphere, beyond the terminal shock, while the hard source with a size of >0.1 pc is located near the boundary of a local interstellar cloud at a distance of ∼0.01 pc from the Sun. A kink in the hardness spectra of p and He (near the hardness of about 230 GV) is caused by the variability of physical conditions in the acceleration region and depends on the relation between the amplitudes and power-law indices of the background, the soft heliospheric source, and the nearby hard galactic source. Ultrarelativistic acceleration of p and He in space plasma by an electromagnetic wave propagating perpendicular to the external magnetic field is investigated using numerical calculations. The conditions for particle trapping by the wave, as well as the dynamics of the velocity and momentum components, are analyzed. The calculations show that, in contrast to electrons and positrons (e{sup +}), a trapped proton can escape from the effective potential well after a relatively short time, thereby terminating to accelerate. Such an effect gives rise to softer spectra of p and He sources as compared to those of e{sup +}. The possibility of deviation of the spectra of accelerated protons from standard power-law dependences due to the surfatron mechanism is discussed.« less

Developmental competence of different quality bovine oocytes retrieved through ovum pick-up following in vitro maturation and fertilization.

PubMed

Saini, N; Singh, M K; Shah, S M; Singh, K P; Kaushik, R; Manik, R S; Singla, S K; Palta, P; Chauhan, M S

2015-12-01

In the present study, oocytes retrieved from cross bred Karan Fries cows by ovum pick-up technique were graded into Group 1 and Group 2, based on the morphological appearance of the individual cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs). To analyze whether the developmental potential of the COCs bears a relation to morphological appearance, relative expression of a panel of genes associated with; (a) cumulus-oocyte interaction (Cx43, Cx37, GDF9 and BMP15), (b) fertilization (ZP2 and ZP3), (c) embryonic development (HSF1, ZAR1 and bFGF) and (d) apoptosis and survival (BAX, BID and BCL-XL, MCL-1, respectively) was studied at two stages: germinal vesicle (GV) stage and after in vitro maturation. The competence was further corroborated by evaluating the embryonic progression of the presumed zygotes obtained from fertilization of the graded COCs. The gene expression profile and development rate in pooled A and B grade (Group 1) COCs and pooled C and D grade (Group 2) COCs were determined and compared according to the original grades. The results of the study demonstrated that the morphologically characterized Group 2 COCs showed significantly (P<0.05) lower expression for most of the genes related to cumulus-oocyte interplay, fertilization and embryonic development, both at GV stage as well as after maturation. Group 1 COCs also showed greater expression of anti-apoptotic genes (BCL-XL and MCL1) both at GV stage and after maturation, while pro-apoptotic genes (BAX and BID) showed significantly (P<0.05) elevated expression in poor quality COCs at both the stages. The cleavage rate in Group 1 COCs was significantly higher than that of Group 2 (74.46±7.06 v. 31.57±5.32%). The development of the presumed zygotes in Group 2 oocytes proceeded up to 8- to 16-cell stages only, while in Group 1 it progressed up to morulae (35.38±7.11%) and blastocyst stages (9.70±3.15%), indicating their better developmental potential.

Effect of temperature on long-term storage of codling moth granulovirus formulations.

PubMed

Lacey, Lawrence A; Headrick, Heather L; Arthurs, Steven P

2008-04-01

Codling moth, Cydia pomonella (L.), is the major pest of apple (Malus spp.) in the western United States and many other regions of the world. The codling moth granulovirus (CpGV) provides a selective and safe means of its control. We assessed the long-term stability and storage potential of two commercial formulations of CpGV, Cyd-X, and Virosoft. All assays were performed with individual C. pomonella neonate larvae in 2-ml vials on 1 ml of artificial larval diet that was surface inoculated with 10 microl of the test virus suspension. Baseline quantitative assays for the two formulations revealed that the LC50 and LC95 values (occlusion bodies per vial) did not differ significantly between the formulations. For year-long studies on Cyd-X stability, the product was stored at -20, 2, 25, and 35 degrees C, and quantitative bioassays were conducted after 0, 3, 6, and 12 mo of storage. Cyd-X retained good larvicidal activity from -20 to 25 degrees C, and it was the least negatively affected at the lowest temperature. Storage of Cyd-X at 35 degrees C was detrimental to its larvicidal activity within 3 mo of storage. For longer term storage studies, Cyd-X and Virosoft formulations were stored at 2, 25, and 35 degrees C, and assayed for larvicidal activity over a 3-yr period. For recently produced product, a 10-microl sample of a 10(-5) dilution of both formulations resulted in 95-100% mortality in neonate larvae. Larvicidal activity for the Cyd-X formulation remained essentially unaffected for 156 wk when stored at 2 and 25 degrees C, but it began to decline significantly after 20 wk of storage at 35 degrees C. The Virosoft formulation stored at 2 degrees C also remained active throughout the 3-yr study, but it began to decline in larvicidal activity after 144 wk at 25 degrees C and 40 wk at 35 degrees C. The information reported in this study should be useful to growers and commercial suppliers for avoiding decreases in CpGV potency due to improper storage conditions.

GEM-AC, a stratospheric-tropospheric global and regional model for air quality and climate change: evaluation of gas phase properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kaminski, J. W.; Semeniuk, K.; McConnell, J. C.; Lupu, A.; Mamun, A.

2012-12-01

The Global Environmental Multiscale model for Air Quality and climate change (GEM-AC) is a global general circulation model based on the GEM model developed by the Meteorological Service of Canada for operational weather forecasting. It can be run with a global uniform (GU) grid or a global variable (GV) grid where the core has uniform grid spacing and the exterior grid expands. With a GV grid high resolution regional runs can be accomplished without a concern for boundary conditions. The work described here uses GEM version 3.3.2. The gas-phase chemistry consists in detailed reactions of Ox, NOx, HOx, CO, CH4, NMVOCs, halocarbons, ClOx and BrO. We have recently added elements of the Global Modal-aerosol eXtension (GMXe) scheme to address aerosol microphysics and gas-aerosol partitioning. The evaluation of the MESSY GMXe aerosol scheme is addressed in another poster. The Canadian aerosol module (CAM) is also available. Tracers are advected using the semi-Lagrangian scheme native to GEM. The vertical transport includes parameterized subgrid scale turbulence and large scale convection. Dry deposition is implemented as a flux boundary condition in the vertical diffusion equation. For climate runs the GHGs CO2, CH4, N2O, CFCs in the radiation scheme are adjusted to the scenario considered. In GV regional mode at high resolutions a lake model, FLAKE is also included. Wet removal comprises both in-cloud and below-cloud scavenging. With the gas phase chemistry the model has been run for a series of ten year time slices on a 3°×3° global grid with 77 hybrid levels from the surface to 0.15 hPa. The tropospheric and stratospheric gas phase results are compared with satellite measurements including, ACE, MIPAS, MOPITT, and OSIRIS. Current evaluations of the ozone field and other stratospheric fields are encouraging and tropospheric lifetimes for CH4 and CH3CCl3 are in reasonable accord with tropospheric models. We will present results for current and future climate conditions forced by SST for 2050.

Improved care and growth outcomes by using hybrid humidified incubators in very preterm infants.

PubMed

Kim, Sung Mi; Lee, Edward Y; Chen, Jie; Ringer, Steven Alan

2010-01-01

To identify changes in temperature, fluid and electrolyte management, growth, and short-term outcome in extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infants nursed in humidified hybrid incubators (HI group) compared with a cohort of patients cared for in nonhumidified conventional incubators (CI group). Body temperature (BT), fluid and electrolyte balance, and growth velocity (GV) were collected retrospectively on 182 ELBW infants. The CI group included ELBW infants cared for with radiant warmers followed by an incubator without humidity. The HI group included ELBW infants cared for in the radiant warmer mode in a Giraffe OmniBed, followed by the incubator mode using high humidity. The CI group included more multiple births (50.6%) than the HI group (35.8%; P < .05), but there was no difference in demographic characteristics. BT was similar during the first week. The HI group had less fluid intake, urine output, and insensible water loss, less maximum weight loss, and a lower incidence of hypernatremia during the first week than did the CI group (P < .05). The HI group also had a lower frequency of electrolyte sampling and packed red cell transfusion (P < .05), a higher incidence of hyponatremia on postnatal day 1 than the CI group (P < .05), and a higher GV than the CI group (15.2 +/- 5.0 vs 13.5 +/- 4.8 g/kg per day), especially among those with a birth weight of

[A prospective study to compare the efficiency of oocyte vitrification using closed or open devices].

PubMed

Sarandi, S; Herbemont, C; Sermondade, N; Benoit, A; Sonigo, C; Poncelet, C; Benard, J; Gronier, H; Boujenah, J; Grynberg, M; Sifer, C

2016-05-01

Oocyte vitrification using an open device is thought to be a source of microbiological and chemical contaminations that can be avoided using a closed device. The principal purpose of this study was to compare the two vitrification protocols: closed and open system. The secondary aim was to study the effects of the storage in the vapor phase of nitrogen (VPN) on oocytes vitrified using an open system and to compare it to those of a storage in liquid nitrogen (LN). Forty-four patients have been included in our study between November 2014 and May 2015. Two hundred and fourteen oocytes have been vitrified at germinal vesicle (GV), metaphase I (0PB) and metaphase II (1PB) stages. We vitrified 96 oocytes (59 GV/37 0PB) using a closed vitrification device and 118 oocytes (57 GV/31 0PB/30 1PB) using an open device. The vitrified oocytes were then stored either in LN or in VPN. The main outcome measures were the survival rate after warming (SR), meiosis resumption rate (MRR) and maturation rate (MR). The global post-thaw SR was significantly higher for oocytes vitrified using an open system (93.2%) compared to those vitrified using a closed one (64.5%; P<0.001). On the contrary, there was no significant difference in terms of global MRR and MR (82.1% vs. 87.5% and 60.7% vs. 61.2% using closed and open system respectively). The SR, MRR and the MR were not significantly different when vitrified oocytes were stored in VPN or LN (91.6, 83.8, 64.5% vs. 93.9, 89.8, 59.1% respectively). Taking into account the limits of our protocol, the open vitrification system remains the more efficient system. The use of sterile liquid nitrogen for oocyte vitrification and the subsequent storage in vapor phase of nitrogen could minimize the hypothetical risks of biological and chemical contaminations. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Possibilities of Processing Archival Photogrammetric Images Captured by Rollei 6006 Metric Camera Using Current Method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dlesk, A.; Raeva, P.; Vach, K.

2018-05-01

Processing of analog photogrammetric negatives using current methods brings new challenges and possibilities, for example, creation of a 3D model from archival images which enables the comparison of historical state and current state of cultural heritage objects. The main purpose of this paper is to present possibilities of processing archival analog images captured by photogrammetric camera Rollei 6006 metric. In 1994, the Czech company EuroGV s.r.o. carried out photogrammetric measurements of former limestone quarry the Great America located in the Central Bohemian Region in the Czech Republic. All the negatives of photogrammetric images, complete documentation, coordinates of geodetically measured ground control points, calibration reports and external orientation of images calculated in the Combined Adjustment Program are preserved and were available for the current processing. Negatives of images were scanned and processed using structure from motion method (SfM). The result of the research is a statement of what accuracy is possible to expect from the proposed methodology using Rollei metric images originally obtained for terrestrial intersection photogrammetry while adhering to the proposed methodology.

Nitrogen chemistry on dust grains: the formation of hydroxylamine, precursor to glycine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vidali, Gianfranco; Lemaire, Jean Louis; Shi, Jianming; Hopkins, Tyler; Garrod, Rob; He, Jiao

2015-08-01

In ices coating dust grains in molecular clouds, nitrogen-containing molecules - mostly NH3 - are present in sizable quantity, up to 15-20% with respect to water ice, the largest component. We studied the oxidation of ammonia in a series of experiments using beams of oxygen and ammonia in various configurations (co-deposition and sequential deposition with various NH3:O ratios). We detected the formation of hydroxylamine (NH2OH) and other products, depending on the degree of oxidation. A simulation of a dense cloud with input from experimental data shows that on and in ices at 14 K and with modest activation energy for reaction, NH2OH is easily formed and its abundance never falls below a tenth of the NH3 abundance. Strategies for detection of hydroxylamine in the ISM will be presented.This work is supported by the NSF Astronomy and Astrophysics Division (grant No.1311958 to G.V.). R.T.G. acknowledges the support of the NASA Astrophysics Theory Program (grant No. NNX11AC38G).

Preparing for the Validation Visit--Guidelines for Optimizing the Experience.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Osborn, Hazel A.

2003-01-01

Urges child care programs to seek accreditation from NAEYC's National Academy of Early Childhood Programs to increase program quality and provides information on the validation process. Includes information on the validation visit and the validator's role and background. Offers suggestions for preparing the director, staff, children, and families…

78 FR 39346 - Self-Regulatory Organizations; NASDAQ OMX PHLX LLC; Notice of Filing and Immediate Effectiveness...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-07-01

... collected, unless a Quote Exhaust has occurred, in which case the Quote Exhaust process in Rule 1082(a)(ii.... * * * * * Rule 1082 Firm Quotations (a)(i)-(ii)(B)(3)(g)(v) No change. (vi) If, after trading at the Phlx and/or... occurred, in which case the Quote Exhaust process in Rule 1082(a)(ii)(B)(3) will ensue,\\6\\ triggering a new...

Edge union of networks on the same vertex set

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Loe, Chuan Wen; Jeldtoft Jensen, Henrik

2013-06-01

Random network generators such as Erdős-Rényi, Watts-Strogatz and Barabási-Albert models are used as models to study real-world networks. Let G1(V, E1) and G2(V, E2) be two such networks on the same vertex set V. This paper studies the degree distribution and clustering coefficient of the resultant networks, G(V, E1∪E2).

On the local vertex antimagic total coloring of some families tree

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Febriani Putri, Desi; Dafik; Hesti Agustin, Ika; Alfarisi, Ridho

2018-04-01

Let G(V, E) be a graph of vertex set V and edge set E. Local vertex antimagic total coloring developed from local edge and local vertex antimagic coloring of graph. Local vertex antimagic total coloring is defined f:V(G)\\cup E(G)\\to \\{1,2,3,\\ldots,|V(G)|+|E(G)|\\} if for any two adjacent vertices v 1 and v 2, w({v}1)\

Unlinkable Serial Transactions

DTIC Science & Technology

1997-01-01

the result of blinding X, for use with the appropriate signature key. 3.3 Registration Message 1 C ! V : fPayment ;Kaudit;CreditAuth;KCV gV ; [Request...anonymous e-cash as presented by Chaum et al. [6], is characterized by several requirements [13]: independent of physical requirements, unforgeable and...penalties can then be applied that make double spending not cost e ective. Chaum’s notion of blinding [5] is a fundamental technique used in

Localization and expression of peroxiredoxin II in the mouse ovary, oviduct, uterus, and preimplantation embryo.

PubMed

Wang, Shie; Huang, Weiquan; Shi, Hexiu; Lin, Cuiying; Xie, Meirong; Wang, Jianxin

2010-02-01

Peroxiredoxin (Prx) II belongs to a recently discovered family of peroxidases that play important roles in antioxidation and signal transduction. In this study, we aimed to study the localization and expression of Prx II in the mouse ovary, oviduct, and uterus, and preimplantation embryos. Immunohistochemical staining analysis showed that, in the ovary, Prx II was expressed in the oocyte cytoplasm of the primary follicle, the secondary follicle, and the premature follicle; Prx II was expressed in germinal vesicle-intact oocytes (GV oocytes) and metaphase II eggs (MII eggs), as well as at various stages in early embryos. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) results indicated that the Prx II mRNA was expressed at a high level in GV eggs, slightly lower levels in MII eggs, and had no detectable expression in four-cell embryos and early blastocysts. In the oviduct, Prx II was expressed in the epithelia, while in the uterus Prx II was mainly distributed in the endometrial stroma. Taken together, our results suggest that Prx II plays a key antioxidation role in the maturation of oocytes and development of early embryos, thus providing crucial experimental evidence for further exploring the function of Prx II in the development of oocytes and preimplantation embryos. 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Betaine is accumulated via transient choline dehydrogenase activation during mouse oocyte meiotic maturation.

PubMed

McClatchie, Taylor; Meredith, Megan; Ouédraogo, Mariame O; Slow, Sandy; Lever, Michael; Mann, Mellissa R W; Zeisel, Steven H; Trasler, Jacquetta M; Baltz, Jay M

2017-08-18

Betaine ( N,N,N -trimethylglycine) plays key roles in mouse eggs and preimplantation embryos first in a novel mechanism of cell volume regulation and second as a major methyl donor in blastocysts, but its origin is unknown. Here, we determined that endogenous betaine was present at low levels in germinal vesicle (GV) stage mouse oocytes before ovulation and reached high levels in the mature, ovulated egg. However, no betaine transport into oocytes was detected during meiotic maturation. Because betaine can be synthesized in mammalian cells via choline dehydrogenase (CHDH; EC 1.1.99.1), we assessed whether this enzyme was expressed and active. Chdh transcripts and CHDH protein were expressed in oocytes. No CHDH enzyme activity was detected in GV oocyte lysate, but CHDH became highly active during oocyte meiotic maturation. It was again inactive after fertilization. We then determined whether oocytes synthesized betaine and whether CHDH was required. Isolated maturing oocytes autonomously synthesized betaine in vitro in the presence of choline, whereas this failed to occur in Chdh -/- oocytes, directly demonstrating a requirement for CHDH for betaine accumulation in oocytes. Overall, betaine accumulation is a previously unsuspected physiological process during mouse oocyte meiotic maturation whose underlying mechanism is the transient activation of CHDH. © 2017 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

rf breakdown tests of mm-wave metallic accelerating structures

DOE PAGES

Dal Forno, Massimo; Dolgashev, Valery; Bowden, Gordon; ...

2016-01-06

In this study, we explore the physics and frequency-scaling of vacuum rf breakdowns at sub-THz frequencies. We present the experimental results of rf tests performed in metallic mm-wave accelerating structures. These experiments were carried out at the facility for advanced accelerator experimental tests (FACET) at the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory. The rf fields were excited by the FACET ultrarelativistic electron beam. We compared the performances of metal structures made with copper and stainless steel. The rf frequency of the fundamental accelerating mode, propagating in the structures at the speed of light, varies from 115 to 140 GHz. The traveling wavemore » structures are 0.1 m long and composed of 125 coupled cavities each. We determined the peak electric field and pulse length where the structures were not damaged by rf breakdowns. We calculated the electric and magnetic field correlated with the rf breakdowns using the FACET bunch parameters. The wakefields were calculated by a frequency domain method using periodic eigensolutions. Such a method takes into account wall losses and is applicable to a large variety of geometries. The maximum achieved accelerating gradient is 0.3 GV/m with a peak surface electric field of 1.5 GV/m and a pulse length of about 2.4 ns.« less

Cosmic Rays and Dynamical Meteorology, 2. Snow Effect In Different Multiplicities According To Neutron Monitor Data of Emilio Segre' Observatory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dorman, L. I.; Iucci, N.; Pustil'Nik, L. A.; Sternlieb, A.; Villoresi, G.; Zukerman, I. G.

On the basis of cosmic ray hourly data obtained by NM of Emilio Segre' Observatory (hight 2025 m above s.l., cut-off rigidity for vertical direction 10.8 GV) we determine the snow effect in CR for total neutron intensity and for multiplicities m=1, m=2, m=3, m=4, m=5, m=6, and m=7. For comparison and excluding primary CR variations we use also hourly data on neutron multiplicities obtained by Rome NM (about sea level, cut-off rigidity 6.7 GV). In this paper we will analize effects of snow in periods from 4 January 2000 to 15 April 2000 with maximal absorption effect about 5%, and from 21 December 2000 up to 31 March 2001 with maximal effect 13% in the total neu- tron intensity. We use the periods without snow to determine regeression coefficients between primary CR variations observed by NM of Emilio Segre' Observatory, and by Rome NM. On the basis of obtained results we develop a method to correct data on snow effect by using several NM hourly data. On the basis of our data we estimate the accuracy with what can be made correction of NM data of stations where the snow effect can be important.

Toward a terahertz-driven electron gun

PubMed Central

Huang, W. Ronny; Nanni, Emilio A.; Ravi, Koustuban; Hong, Kyung-Han; Fallahi, Arya; Wong, Liang Jie; Keathley, Phillip D.; Zapata, Luis E.; Kärtner, Franz X.

2015-01-01

Femtosecond electron bunches with keV energies and eV energy spread are needed by condensed matter physicists to resolve state transitions in carbon nanotubes, molecular structures, organic salts, and charge density wave materials. These semirelativistic electron sources are not only of interest for ultrafast electron diffraction, but also for electron energy-loss spectroscopy and as a seed for x-ray FELs. Thus far, the output energy spread (hence pulse duration) of ultrafast electron guns has been limited by the achievable electric field at the surface of the emitter, which is 10 MV/m for DC guns and 200 MV/m for RF guns. A single-cycle THz electron gun provides a unique opportunity to not only achieve GV/m surface electric fields but also with relatively low THz pulse energies, since a single-cycle transform-limited waveform is the most efficient way to achieve intense electric fields. Here, electron bunches of 50 fC from a flat copper photocathode are accelerated from rest to tens of eV by a microjoule THz pulse with peak electric field of 72 MV/m at 1 kHz repetition rate. We show that scaling to the readily-available GV/m THz field regime would translate to monoenergetic electron beams of ~100 keV. PMID:26486697

Cavitation control on a 2D hydrofoil through a continuous tangential injection of liquid: Experimental study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Timoshevskiy, M. V.; Zapryagaev, I. I.; Pervunin, K. S.; Markovich, D. M.

2016-10-01

In the paper, the possibility of active control of a cavitating flow over a 2D hydrofoil that replicates a scaled-down model of high-pressure hydroturbine guide vane (GV) was tested. The flow manipulation was implemented by a continuous tangential liquid injection at different flow rates through a spanwise slot in the foil surface. In experiments, the hydrofoil was placed in the test channel at the attack angle of 9°. Different cavitation conditions were reached by varying the cavitation number and injection velocity. In order to study time dynamics and spatial patterns of partial cavities, high-speed imaging was employed. A PIV method was used to measure the mean and fluctuating velocity fields over the hydrofoil. Hydroacoustic measurements were carried out by means of a pressure transducer to identify spectral characteristics of the cavitating flow. It was found that the present control technique is able to modify the partial cavity pattern (or even totally suppress cavitation) in case of stable sheet cavitation and change the amplitude of pressure pulsations at unsteady regimes. The injection technique makes it also possible to significantly influence the spatial distributions of the mean velocity and its turbulent fluctuations over the GV section for non-cavitating flow and sheet cavitation.

Subcortical regional morphology correlates with fluid and spatial intelligence.

PubMed

Burgaleta, Miguel; MacDonald, Penny A; Martínez, Kenia; Román, Francisco J; Álvarez-Linera, Juan; Ramos González, Ana; Karama, Sherif; Colom, Roberto

2014-05-01

Neuroimaging studies have revealed associations between intelligence and brain morphology. However, researchers have focused primarily on the anatomical features of the cerebral cortex, whereas subcortical structures, such as the basal ganglia (BG), have often been neglected despite extensive functional evidence on their relation with higher-order cognition. Here we performed shape analyses to understand how individual differences in BG local morphology account for variability in cognitive performance. Structural MRI was acquired in 104 young adults (45 men, 59 women, mean age = 19.83, SD = 1.64), and the outer surface of striatal structures (caudate, nucleus accumbens, and putamen), globus pallidus, and thalamus was estimated for each subject and hemisphere. Further, nine cognitive tests were used to measure fluid (Gf), crystallized (Gc), and spatial intelligence (Gv). Latent scores for these factors were computed by means of confirmatory factor analysis and regressed vertex-wise against subcortical shape (local displacements of vertex position), controlling for age, sex, and adjusted for brain size. Significant results (FDR < 5%) were found for Gf and Gv, but not Gc, for the right striatal structures and thalamus. The main results show a relative enlargement of the rostral putamen, which is functionally connected to the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and other intelligence-related prefrontal areas. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Interchangeability of gas detection tubes and hand pumps.

PubMed

Haag, W R

2001-01-01

Users of gas detection tubes occasionally seek the convenience of using a single hand pump with different brands of tubes, to avoid the need to carry more than one pump. Several professional organizations recommend against such interchange. However, these recommendations appear to be based on a single study of pump designs that mostly are no longer in use. The present study was undertaken to determine if current hand pumps are interchangeable. Both piston-type and bellows-type hand pumps were evaluated by comparing pump flow profiles and test gas measurements with a variety of tubes. The results demonstrate that three piston hand pumps in common use (Sensidyne/Gastec GV/100, RAE Systems LP-1200, and Matheson-Kitagawa 8104-400A) are fully interchangeable. Two bellows pumps (Draeger Accuro and MSA Kwik-Draw) also are interchangeable with each other. Mixing of bellows and piston systems is often possible, but there are enough exceptions to conclude that such practice should be discouraged because it can give inaccurate readings. It is recommended that technical standards be adopted, such as total volume and an initial pump vacuum or a pump flow curve, to assess hand pump interchangeability. When two manufacturers' pumps meet the same standard and routine leak tests are conducted, interchangeability is scientifically valid and poses no risk to the end user while offering greater convenience.

Prediction of ppm level electrical failure by using physical variation analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hou, Hsin-Ming; Kung, Ji-Fu; Hsu, Y.-B.; Yamazaki, Y.; Maruyama, Kotaro; Toyoshima, Yuya; Chen, Chu-en

2016-03-01

The quality of patterns printed on wafer may be attributed to factors such as process window control, pattern fidelity, overlay performance, and metrology. Each of these factors play an important role in making the process more effective by ensuring that certain design- and process-specific parameters are kept within acceptable variation. Since chip size and pattern density are increasing accordingly, in-line real time catching the in-chip weak patterns/defects per million opportunities (WP-DPMO) plays more and more significant role for product yield with high density memory. However, the current in-line inspection tools focus on single layer defect inspection, not effectively and efficiently to catch multi-layer weak patterns/defects even through voltage contrast and/or special test structure design [1]-[2]. In general, the multi-layer weak patterns/defects are escaped easily by using in-line inspection and cause ignorance of product dysfunction until off-line time-consuming final PFA/EFA will be used. To effectively and efficiently in-line real time monitor the potential multi-layer weak patterns, we quantify the bridge electrical metric between contact and gate electrodes into CD physical metric via big data from the larger field of view (FOV: 8k x 16k with 3 nm pixel equalizes to image main field size 34 um x 34 um @ 3 nm pixel) e-beam quality image contour compared to layout GDS database (D2DB) as shown in Fig. 1. Hadoop-based distributed parallel computing is implemented to improve the performance of big data architectures, Fig. 2. Therefore, the state of art in-line real time catching in-chip potential multi-layer weak patterns can be proven and achieved by following some studying cases [3]. Therefore, manufacturing sources of variations can be partitioned to systematic and random variations by applying statistical techniques based on the big data fundamental infrastructures. After big data handling, the in-chip CD and AA variations are distinguished by their spatial correlation distance. For local variations (LV) there is no correlation, whereas for global variations (GV) the correlation distance is very large [7]-[9]. This is the first time to certificate the validation of spatial distribution from the affordable bias contour big data fundamental infrastructures. And then apply statistical techniques to dig out the variation sources. The GV come from systematic issue, which could be compensated by adaptive LT condition or OPC correction. But LV comes from random issue, which being considered as intrinsic problem such as structure, material, tool capability… etc. In this paper studying, we can find out the advanced technology node SRAM contact CD local variation (LV) dominates in total variation, about 70%. It often plays significant in-line real time catching WP-DPMO role of the product yield loss, especially for wafer edge is the worst loss within wafer distribution and causes serious reliability concern. The major root cause of variations comes from the PR material induced burr defect (LV), the second one comes from GV enhanced wafer edge short opportunity, which being attributed to three factors, first one factor is wafer edge CD deliberated enlargement for yield improvement as shown in Fig. 10. Second factor is overlaps/AA shifts due to tool capability dealing with incoming wafer's war page issue and optical periphery layout dependent working pitch issue as shown in Fig. 9 (1)., the last factor comes from wafer edge burr enhanced by wafer edge larger Photo Resistance (PR) spin centrifugal force. After implementing KPIs such as GV related AA/CD indexes as shown in Fig. 9 (1) and 10, respectively, and LV related burr index as shown in Fig. 11., we can construct the parts per million (PPM) level short probability model via multi-variables regression, canonical correlation analysis and logistic transformation. The model provides prediction of PPM level electrical failure by using in-line real time physical variation analysis. However in order to achieve Total Quality Management (TQM), the adaptive Statistical Process Control (SPC) charts can be implemented to in-line real time catch PPM level product malfunction at manufacturing stage. Applying for early stage monitor likes incoming raw material, Photo Resistance (PR) … etc., the LV related burr KPI SPC charts could be a powerful quality inspection vehicle. To sum up the paper's contributions, the state of art in-line real time catching in-chip potential multi-layer physical weak patterns can be proven and achieved effectively and efficiently to associate with PPM level product dysfunction.

Evaluation and Validation: A Look at the Program Effectiveness Panel.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cook, Nancy R.; And Others

The work of the Program Effectiveness Panel (PEP) of the United States Department of Education was examined. The PEP is the Department of Education's primary means of certifying or validating the effectiveness of educational programs. Thirty-three educational programs were validated by the PEP between January 1988 and December 1990. Over time,…

The Influence of Soil Suction on the Shear Strength of Unsaturated Soil

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-09-01

the shear strength parameters c’ and 0’ for montmorillonitic and kaolinitic clays increased following the addition of divalent calcium hydroxide to...503-513. Sridharan, A., Rao, S.N., and Rao, G.V. (1971), "Shear Strength Char- acteristics of Saturated Montmorillonite and Kaolinite Clays," Soils...Summary of Shear Strengths of Unsaturated Specimens of Compacted Kaolinite and Compacted Red Earth (After Murthy, Sridharan and Nagaraj, 1987

EXCEDE Support Studies.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-09-15

OW #gV Or aftoa inmbt) EXCEDE, electron beam, thermosphere, aurora, LWIR , NO + air afterglow, hypersonic wake AG? (C mw~m M ~re 1o AM C@ " Cow lame...REGION 5 EXCEDE SPECTRAL: LWIR SIGNATURE ANALYSIS 28 HYPERSONIC WAKE EFFECTS ON EXCEDE: SPECTRAL LOW ALTITUDE DATA INTERPRETATION 47 LONG LIVED BEAM...physical displacement of gun 4 from the two CVFs, however, meant that the very nonuniform dosing in the immediate vicinity of the electron gun is not the

Studies of the Cosmic Ray Penumbra

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-08-11

1.10 1.20 1.30 1.40 1.50 1.60 RIGIDITY (GV) NEWARK (39.68N, 284.25E) Rc-2.10 GVBrEhIIl11 11 1.70 1.80 I 90 2.00 2.10 2.20 2.30 RIGIDITY CGV ) CUMAX...in table 2.1. 44 100 4 ------- so- . - - .-. ,,FRANCEITL 01 *C/ L ... 0.1 1 10 RIGIDITY CGy) 1 00 ZONE I ....... 2- so- 500 RIGIDITY CGV ) 100 ZOE I

Biodegradation of Jet Fuel in Vented Columns of Water-Unsaturated Sandy Soil

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-01-01

phosphorus, sulfur, iron, magnesium, calcium, sodium and other elements are required for microbial growth ( Atlas , 1977). Dibble and Bartha (1979b...371-386. Bartha , R. 1986. Biotechnology of Petroleum Pollutant Biodegradation. Microbial Ecology . v.12, p.155-172. Batchelder, G.V., W.A. Panzeri...E.L. Schmidt. 1978. Limiting Factors for Microbial Growth and Activity in Soil, in Advances in Microbial Ecology , v.2, Plenum Press, New York. p.49

Bibliography of Soviet Laser Developments, Number 27, January - February 1977.

DTIC Science & Technology

1977-11-21

is 3. Deflectors .......................................... 15 4. Filters .............................................. 16 5. Mirrors ...Leont’yev and A.M. Khapayev (2). Study of the effect of a mirror aperture on the pro- perties of a hemispherical Fabry-Perot resonator. VMU, no. 4, 1976...modes in a resonator with an aperture in the mirror . ZhPS, v. 26, no. 1, 1977, 141-143. 2. Pump Sources 108. Kruglov, B.V., V.P. Osetrov, G.V

Mapping the spectral variability in photosynthetic and non-photosynthetic vegetation, soils, and shade using AVIRIS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Roberts, Dar A.; Smith, Milton O.; Sabol, Donald E.; Adams, John B.; Ustin, Susan L.

1992-01-01

The primary objective of this research was to map as many spectrally distinct types of green vegetation (GV), non-photosynthetic vegetation (NPV), shade, and soil (endmembers) in an Airborne Visible/Infrared Imaging Spectrometer (AVIRIS) scene as is warranted by the spectral variability of the data. Once determined, a secondary objective was to interpret these endmembers and their abundances spatially and spectrally in an ecological context.

76 FR 29012 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-05-19

... for OMB Review; Comment Request; Unemployment Insurance Data Validation Program ACTION: Notice...) sponsored information collection request (ICR) titled, ``Unemployment Insurance Data Validation Program... INFORMATION: The Unemployment Insurance Data Validation Program requires States to operate a system for...

Effect of incorporation of silane in the bonding agent on the repair potential of machinable esthetic blocks

PubMed Central

Zaghloul, Hanaa; Elkassas, Dina Wafik; Haridy, Mohamed Fouad

2014-01-01

Objective: To investigate the repair potential of CAD/CAM (computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing) ceramic and composite blocks using a silane-containing bonding agent with different repair protocols. Materials and Methods: Twenty-four discs were constructed from CAD/CAM ceramic and composite blocks. The discs were divided into six groups according to surface pre-treatment employed; GI: Diamond stone roughening (SR), GII: SR+ silanization (SR+S), GIII: Hydrofluoric acid etching (HF), GIV: HF+ silanization (HF+S), GV: Silica coating (SC), GVI: SC+ silanization (SC+S). Silane-containing bonding agent (Single Bond Universal adhesive, 3M ESPE) was applied to the pre-treated discs. Prior to light curing, irises were cut from tygon tubes (internal diameter = 0.8 mm and height = 0.5 mm) and mounted on each treated surface. Nanofilled resin composite (Filtek Z350XT, 3M ESPE) was packed into the cylinder lumen and light-cured (n = 10). The specimens were subjected to microshear bond strength testing (μ-SBS) using universal testing machine. Failure modes of the fractured specimens were analyzed using field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM). Eight representative discs were prepared to analyze the effect of surface treatments on surface topography using FESEM. μ-SBS results were analyzed using ANOVA and Tukeys post-hoc test. Results: Three-way ANOVA results showed that the materials, surface pre-treatment protocols, and silanization step had a statistically significant effect on the mean μ-SBS values at P ≤ 0.001. For ceramic discs, the groups were ranked; GIV (24.45 ± 7.35)> GVI ((20.18 ± 2.84)> GV (7.14 ± 14)= GII (6.72 ± 1.91)=GI (6.34 ± 2.21)=GIII (5.72 ± 2.18). For composite discs, groups were ranked; GI (24.98 ± 7.69)=GVI (24.84 ± 7.00) >GII (15.85 ± 5.29) =GV (14.65 ± 4.5)= GIV (14.24 ± 2.95)≥ GIII ((9.37 ± 2.78). Conclusion: The additional silanization step cannot be omitted if the repair protocol comprises of either hydrofluoric acid etching or silica coating for both CAD/CAM esthetic restorative materials. However, this step can be suppressed by using silane-containing adhesive with diamond stone roughened repair protocol. PMID:24966745

Vitamin D status in relation to postural stability in the elderly.

PubMed

Boersma, D; Demontiero, O; Mohtasham Amiri, Z; Hassan, S; Suarez, H; Geisinger, D; Suriyaarachchi, P; Sharma, A; Duque, G

2012-03-01

Postural instability (PI) is an important risk factor for falls, especially in the frail older population. In this study, we investigated the impact of vitamin D deficiency on PI in a sample of community dwelling older subjects. Our objective was to determine the potential association between vitamin D deficiency and PI in older fallers. Cross-sectional study. Falls and Fractures Clinic, Department of Geriatric Medicine, Nepean Hospital, Penrith, Australia. One hundred and forty-five adults aged 65 years and older who have had at least one episode of a fall within the six months prior to assessment at the Falls and Fractures Clinic. Serum 25(OH) vitamin D3 [25(OH)D3] and parathyroid hormone concentrations were determined at baseline. Subjects were separated into 3 groups based on serum 25(OH)D3 levels with the following cut-off values: < 30 nmol/L (deficient), 30-50 nmol/L (insufficient) and > 50 nmol/L (normal). Other baseline measurements included body mass index, mini-nutritional assessment, grip strength, serum calcium concentration and creatinine clearance, which were used as covariables. PI was assessed using a computerized virtual reality system (Medicaa, Uruguay). Measured parameters included limits of stability (LOS) and centre of pressure (COP) under eyes closed on foam (ECF) and visio-vestibular stimulation. The estimated swaying area, computed from the ellipse of confidence under eyes closed standing on foam (ECF), was also used as a PI parameter. Gait velocity (GV) was measured using a GaitRITE walkway system. Posture was impaired in vitamin D deficiency (<30 nmol/L) as indicated by lower LOS (90 +/- 18), higher ECF (25 +/- 10) and slower GV (55 +/- 7) as compared with the insufficient and normal groups. After adjustment for demographic, biochemical and anthropometric variables, vitamin D deficiency significantly correlated with low LOS and high COP under ECF. Low levels of vitamin D were associated with PI. This association could also have an effect on slow GV and increased risk of falls. In conclusion, using an objective method to measure balance in older fallers we have identified a novel role of vitamin D in balance control. Prospective studies are required to confirm the effect of vitamin D on PI and elucidate the mechanisms of this association.

Quality of life of patients with graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) post-hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

PubMed

Proença, Sibéli de Fátima Ferraz Simão; Machado, Celina Mattos; Coelho, Raquel de Castro Figueiredo Pereira; Sarquis, Leila Maria Mansano; Guimarães, Paulo Ricardo Bittencourt; Kalinke, Luciana Puchalski

2016-01-01

Assessing the quality of life of adult patients with hematological cancer in the 100 days after transplantation of hematopoietic stem cells and verifying whether the variable graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) is predictive of worse results. An observational correlational and quantitative study with 36 adult participants diagnosed with hematologic cancer who underwent hematopoietic stem cell transplantation from September 2013 to June 2015. The mean age was 37 years, 52.78% were female, and 61.11% were diagnosed with leukemia. Quality of life scores showed a significant impact between pre-transplantation and pre-hospital discharge, and also within the 100 days post-transplantation. The statistical analysis between the scores for the groups with and without GvHD showed a significant difference between the presence of the complication and worse results. Quality of life is altered as a result of hematopoietic stem cells transplantation, especially in patients who have graft-versus-host disease. Avaliar a qualidade de vida de pacientes adultos com câncer hematológico nos 100 dias do transplante de células-tronco hematopoéticas e verificar se a variável doença do enxerto contra o hospedeiro é preditiva de piores resultados. Estudo observacional, correlacional e quantitativo, com 36 participantes adultos, diagnosticados com câncer hematológico que se submeteram ao transplante de células-tronco hematopoéticas de setembro de 2013 a junho de 2015. A média de idade foi 37 anos, 52,78% eram do sexo feminino, e 61,11% com diagnóstico de leucemia. Os escores de qualidade de vida demonstraram impacto significativo entre o pré-transplante e a pré-alta hospitalar e entre os 100 dias pós-transplante. A análise estatística entre os escores dos grupos com e sem doença do enxerto contra o hospedeiro evidenciou significância entre a presença desta complicação e piores resultados. A qualidade de vida é alterada em decorrência do transplante de células-tronco hematopoéticas, em especial nos pacientes que apresentam doença do enxerto contra o hospedeiro.

Growth hormone regimens in Australia: analysis of the first 3 years of treatment for idiopathic growth hormone deficiency and idiopathic short stature.

PubMed

Hughes, Ian P; Harris, Mark; Choong, Catherine S; Ambler, Geoff; Cutfield, Wayne; Hofman, Paul; Cowell, Chris T; Werther, George; Cotterill, Andrew; Davies, Peter S W

2012-07-01

To investigate response to growth hormone (GH) in the first, second and third years of treatment for all idiopathic GH-deficient (GHD) and idiopathic short stature (ISS) patients in Australia. Eligibility for subsidized GH treatment in Australia is determined on auxological criteria for the indication of Short Stature and Slow Growth (SSSG), which includes ISS (SSSG-ISS). The biochemical GHD (BGHD, peak GH < 10 mU/l) and SSSG indications are treated similarly: starting dose of 4·5 mg/m(2)/week with provision for incremental dosing. Some ISS patients were specifically diagnosed with familial short stature (SSSG-FSS). Responses for each year of treatment for BGHD, SSSG-ISS and SSSG-FSS cohorts were compared in relation to influencing variables and with international benchmarks. The effect of incremental dosing was assessed. Australian BGHD, SSSG-ISS and SSSG-FSS patients who had completed 1, 2, or 3 years of treatment and were currently receiving GH. Growth hormone dose, change in height-standard deviation score (ΔSDS) and growth velocity (GV). First-year response was 2-3 times greater than that in subsequent years: ΔSDS(1st year) = 0·92, 0·50 and 0·46 for BGHD, SSSG-ISS and SSSG-FSS, respectively. Responses were similar to international reports and inversely related to age at commencement of GH. First-year GV-for-age for BGHD patients was similar to international standards for idiopathic GHD. However, girls had an inferior response to boys when treatment commenced at <6 years of age. First-year GV-for-age for SSSG-ISS/FSS patients was less than ISS standards. Dose increments attenuated the first- to second-year decline in response to BGHD but marginally improved the responses for SSSG-ISS/FSS. The Australian auxology-based GH programme produces comparable responses to international programmes. A lower starting dose is offset by the initiation of treatment at younger ages. Incremental dosing does not appear optimal. A first-year dose of 6·4-6·9 mg/m(2)/week for GHD and 8·9 mg/m(2)/week for ISS with early commencement of GH treatment may be most efficacious. © 2012 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

42 CFR 493.575 - Removal of deeming authority or CLIA exemption and final determination review.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... an accreditation organization's program if the comparability or validation review produces findings...) An exemption review of a State's licensure program if the comparability or validation review produces... review of an accreditation organization or State licensure program, at CMS's discretion, if validation...