Potilasohjauksen osaamisen johtaminen terveydenhuollossa : hoitotyön johtajien näkemyksiä

OpenAIRE

Lehtoranta, Marja

2013-01-01

Tutkimuksen tarkoituksena oli selvittää potilasohjauksen osaamisen johtamista käytännössä. Tutkimuksessa kuvattiin osaamisen johtamisesta erityisesti käytössä olevia potilasohjauksen rakenteita, käytäntöjä ja viestintää, potilasohjauksen osaamisen tunnistamista, kartoittamista ja mittaamista sekä osaamisen kehittämistä ja ylläpitämistä. Tutkimusaineisto kerättiin vuonna 2011 osana Keski-Suomen sairaanhoitopiirin Potilasohjaus vaikuttavaksi (PoiJu) –kehittämishanketta haastattelemalla 22 hoito...

Ammattikorkeakoulujen Julkaisuarkisto Theseus : käyttöönotto- ja perustamisvaiheet sekä nykyiset käytänteet ammattikorkeakouluissa

OpenAIRE

Ranta, Anna-Kaisa; Lahdenperä, Silja

2012-01-01

Tässä opinnäytetyössä perehdytään Julkaisuarkisto Theseuksen perustamisvaiheisiin ja käyttöönottoon Suomen ammattikorkeakouluissa. Theseuksen historia käydään läpi Open Access -hankkeen alkuvaiheista nykypäivään asti ja lopuksi luodaan katsaus myös tulevaisuuteen. Lisäksi työssä tutkitaan ammattikorkeakoulujen erilaisia käytänteitä Theseuksen käytön suhteen. Aloitteen työn tekemiseksi on tehnyt Theseus-ohjausryhmä ja työn toimeksiantaja on AMKIT-konsortion johtoryhmä. Tietolähteinä käytet...

Growth and essential oil production by Martianthus leucocephalus grown under the edaphoclimatic conditions of Feira de Santana, Bahia, Brazil

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Bianca Oliveira de Azevedo

2015-01-01

Full Text Available ABSTRACT: The semiarid region of Brazil holds a great richness of medicinal and aromatic plants with considerable potential for pharmaceutical, food, cosmetic and biopesticide industries. Martianthus leucocephalus (Mart. Ex Benth. J. F. B. Pastore is endemic to this region, and its essential oils contain a principle compound, isobornyl formate, which demonstrates antimicrobial activity against Bacilus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans. In spite of its significant pharmacological potential, little is known about its growth. In light of the influence of seasonality on plant growth, development, and secondary metabolism, the present study evaluated the growth and essential oil content of M. leucocephalus grown and harvested during different months of the year in the edaphoclimatic conditions of Feira de Santana, Bahia State, Brazil. The experimental design was entirely randomized, with twelve harvesting periods and five replicates. The study acquired monthly data of mean temperatures, relative humidity, rainfall, irradiance, and photoperiod from the National Institute of Meteorology (INMET and quantified the fresh and dry weights of leaves, flowers and branches, as well as leaf area, and essential oil content. The data were submitted to Spearman correlation analysis and the means were compared using the Scott-Knott test. Total leaf masses and oil contents were higher during periods with longer photoperiods and higher solar irradiance. Rainfall and relative humidity reduced plant growth and essential oil content. Higher total mean dry masses were recorded from September to January (except October, while oil content was higher in March.

Tiiviisti yhdestä suusta : Tutkimus kertojan käytön merkityksestä dokumenttielokuvassa

OpenAIRE

Rahkola, Nina

2009-01-01

TIIVISTELMÄ Rahkola, Nina. Tiiviisti yhdestä suusta. Tutkimus kertojan käytön merkityksestä dokumenttielokuvassa. Turku, syksy 2009, 68 s. Diakonia‐ammattikorkeakoulu, Diak Länsi Turku. Viestinnän koulutusohjelma, monimediatoimittajan suuntautumisvaihtoehto, medianomi (AMK). Opinnäytetyön tavoitteena oli selvittää, mitä kertojan käyttö merkitsee dokumenttielokuvassa. Tutkielmassa perehdyttiin myös siihen, miten kertojan käyttö vaikuttaa dokumentin tekoprosessiin. Lisäksi tar...

Venäläinen tytäryritys suomalaisessa konsernitilinpäätöksessä - Case Inlook Oy

OpenAIRE

Romanova, Julia

2009-01-01

Työn keskeisin käsite on konsernin tilinpäätöstietojen yhdisteleminen ja tilinpäätöskäytäntö. Tilinpäätöskäytäntö voidaankin ajatella taloudellisen kommunikoinnin välineenä – taloudelli-sena kielenä. Kielen tehtävänä on kiteyttää informaatio tai ajatukset merkkeihin, jotka ym-märretään tietyssä kirjanpitoympäristössä samalla tavalla. Ongelmana on se, että taloudelli-nen kieli sisältää paljon kulttuurille ominaisia asioita, mikä tekee jokaisesta eri kirjanpitoym-päristön taloudellisesta kieles...

Arkea, ammattitaitoa ja yhteistyötä : työntekijöiden kokemuksia käytöshäiriöisten nuorten hoidosta koulukodissa

OpenAIRE

Haunia, Henna

2011-01-01

TIIVISTELMÄ Haunia, Henna. Arkea, ammattitaitoa ja yhteistyötä : työntekijöiden kokemuksia käytöshäiriöisten nuorten hoidosta koulukodissa. Helsinki, syksy 2011. Diakonia-ammattikorkeakoulu, Diak Etelä, Helsinki. Sosiaalialan koulutusohjelma, sosionomi (YAMK). Tämän opinnäytetyön tarkoituksena oli tutkia koulukodissa tapahtuvaan käytöshäiriöisten nuorten hoitoon liittyviä työmenetelmiä ja kehittämisen tarpeita. Tässä laadullisessa tutkimuksessa tutkimusmenetelmänä oli toimintatutkimus....

NT2 derived neuronal and astrocytic network signalling.

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Eric J Hill

Full Text Available A major focus of stem cell research is the generation of neurons that may then be implanted to treat neurodegenerative diseases. However, a picture is emerging where astrocytes are partners to neurons in sustaining and modulating brain function. We therefore investigated the functional properties of NT2 derived astrocytes and neurons using electrophysiological and calcium imaging approaches. NT2 neurons (NT2Ns expressed sodium dependent action potentials, as well as responses to depolarisation and the neurotransmitter glutamate. NT2Ns exhibited spontaneous and coordinated calcium elevations in clusters and in extended processes, indicating local and long distance signalling. Tetrodotoxin sensitive network activity could also be evoked by electrical stimulation. Similarly, NT2 astrocytes (NT2As exhibited morphology and functional properties consistent with this glial cell type. NT2As responded to neuronal activity and to exogenously applied neurotransmitters with calcium elevations, and in contrast to neurons, also exhibited spontaneous rhythmic calcium oscillations. NT2As also generated propagating calcium waves that were gap junction and purinergic signalling dependent. Our results show that NT2 derived astrocytes exhibit appropriate functionality and that NT2N networks interact with NT2A networks in co-culture. These findings underline the utility of such cultures to investigate human brain cell type signalling under controlled conditions. Furthermore, since stem cell derived neuron function and survival is of great importance therapeutically, our findings suggest that the presence of complementary astrocytes may be valuable in supporting stem cell derived neuronal networks. Indeed, this also supports the intriguing possibility of selective therapeutic replacement of astrocytes in diseases where these cells are either lost or lose functionality.

The effect of support springs in ends welded gap hollow YT-joint

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

R. F. Vieira

Full Text Available This paper presents an analysis on the effect of support springs in an ends circular hollow sections welded into a YT joint. The overall behavior and failure of the joint were characterized under axial compression of the lap brace. Two joint failure modes were identified: chord wall plastification (Mode A and cross-sectional chord buckling (Mode F in the region below the lap brace. The system was modeled with and without support springs using the numerical finite element program Ansys. Model results were compared with experimental data in terms of principal stress in the joint intersection. The finite element model without support springs proved to be more accurate than that with support springs.

Comparison of locomotor behaviour between white-headed langurs Trachypithecus leucocephalus and François’ langurs T. françoisi in Fusui, China

OpenAIRE

Jinrong XIONG; Shihua GONG; Chenggang QIU; Zhaoyuan LI

2009-01-01

We studied the locomotor behaviour of white-headed langurs Trachypithecus leucocephalus and François’ langurs T.françoisi to test two hypotheses: (1) these monkeys have evolved locomotor ability to support their activities on limestone hills, and (2) François’ langurs have evolved more diverse locomotor skills than white-headed langurs. Data were collected from 1996–1998 and in 2005 in Fusui Nature Reserve, Guangxi, and showed that the two species had similar locomotor types, but François’ l...

Botulinum toxin (BoNT) and back pain.

Science.gov (United States)

Porta, Mauro; Maggioni, G

2004-02-01

Myofascial pain syndrome is defined as subacute or chronic pain with sensory, motor and autonomic symptoms referred from active trigger points with associated painful dysfunctions. Authors present the usefulness of botulinum toxin A or B (BoNT/A or BoNT/B) injected into target muscles since the toxin is capable of controlling not only the muscular spasm but mostly the pain by alternative mechanisms of action, which are discussed. Posology of BoNT, technical aspects and results are presented. BoNT represents an interesting and useful tool for an adequate management of patients with myofascial pain.

END OF NICE 95 AND NICE NT SERVICES

CERN Multimedia

2002-01-01

You are concerned by this article if you still use a computer running NICE 95 or NICE NT. As recommended by the Desktop Forum, NICE 95 and NT services will be stopped according to the following schedule: 31st January 2003: NICE 95/NT will be frozen. Applications will still be able to run, but the helpdesk will not address any NICE 95/NT problems anymore. It will not be possible to reinstall NICE 95/NT anymore. Disk images of the original Windows 95 and Windows NT CDs are available on the network, but it will be up to the user to create those CDs, reinstall the machine(s), as well as to locate and install: the required applications, the device drivers for special hardware, the necessary security patches, an anti-virus software (Operational Circular Nº5 of CERN's Computing Rules requires that Windows PCs are regularly checked for viruses). The original Windows 95 and Windows NT CD images can be obtained from http://cern.ch/win/services/installation/CDImages (please enter your NICE username and pa...

End of NICE 95 and NICE NT services

CERN Multimedia

2003-01-01

You are concerned by this article if you still use a computer running NICE 95 or NICE NT. As recommended by the Desktop Forum, NICE 95 and NT services will be stopped according to the following schedule: 31st January 2003: NICE 95/NT will be frozen. Applications will still be able to run, but the helpdesk will not address any NICE 95/NT problems anymore. It will not be possible to reinstall NICE 95/NT anymore. Disk images of the original Windows 95 and Windows NT CDs are available on the network, but it will be up to the user to create those CDs, reinstall the machine(s), as well as to locate and install: - the required applications, - the device drivers for special hardware, - the necessary security patches, - an anti-virus software (Operational Circular N 5 of CERN's Computing Rules (http://cern.ch/ComputingRules) requires that Windows PCs are regularly checked for viruses). The original Windows 95 and Windows NT CD images can be obtained from http://cern.ch/win/services/installation/CDImages (please...

End of NICE 95 and NICE NT services

CERN Document Server

2003-01-01

You are concerned by this article if you still use a computer running NICE 95 or NICE NT. As recommended by the Desktop Forum, NICE 95 and NT services will be stopped according to the following schedule: 31st January 2003: NICE 95/NT will be frozen. Applications will still be able to run, but the helpdesk will not address any NICE 95/NT problems anymore. It will not be possible to reinstall NICE 95/NT anymore. Disk images of the original Windows 95 and Windows NT CDs are available on the network, but it will be up to the user to create those CDs, reinstall the machine(s), as well as to locate and install: - the required applications, - the device drivers for special hardware, - the necessary security patches, - an anti-virus software (Operational Circular N 5 of CERN's Computing Rules (http://cern.ch/ComputingRules) requires that Windows PCs are regularly checked for viruses). The original Windows 95 and Windows NT CD images can be obtained from http://cern.ch/win/services/installation/CDImages (please ...

Nuclear waste for NT

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nelson, Brendan

2005-01-01

The Northern Territory may be powerless to block the dumping of low-level nuclear waste in the Territory under legislation introduced into Parliament by Minister for Education Science and Training, Dr Brendan Nelson, in October. Despite strong opposition to the dumping of nuclear waste in the NT, the Australian Government will be able to send waste to one of the three nominated Commonwealth-owned Defence sites within the NT under the Commonwealth Radioactive Waste Management Bill 2005 and the Commonwealth Radioactive Waste Management (Related Amendment) Bill 2005. The Bills veto recently drafted NT legislation designed to scuttle the plans. Low-level nuclear waste is stored at more than 100 sites around Australia, including hospitals, factories, universities and defence facilities. Medical isotopes produced at Lucas Heights and provided for medical procedures are the source of much of this waste, including some 16 cubic metres currently held at Darwin Hospital. Dr Nelson stressed that the Government would take all die necessary steps to comply with safety and regulatory precautions, including handling waste in line with relevant environmental, nuclear safety and proliferation safeguards

Ribosomal protein NtRPL17 interacts with kinesin-12 family protein NtKRP and functions in the regulation of embryo/seed size and radicle growth.

Science.gov (United States)

Tian, Shujuan; Wu, Jingjing; Liu, Yuan; Huang, Xiaorong; Li, Fen; Wang, Zhaodan; Sun, Meng-Xiang

2017-11-28

We previously reported that a novel motor protein belonging to the kinesin-12 family, NtKRP, displays critical roles in regulating embryo and seed size establishment. However, it remains unknown exactly how NtKRP contributes to this developmental process. Here, we report that a 60S ribosomal protein NtRPL17 directly interacts with NtKRP. The phenotypes of NtRPL17 RNAi lines show notable embryo and seed size reduction. Structural observations of the NtRPL17-silenced embryos/seeds reveal that the embryo size reduction is due to a decrease in cell number. In these embryos, cell division cycle progression is delayed at the G2/M transition. These phenotypes are similar to that in NtKRP-silenced embryos/seeds, indicating that NtKRP and NtRPL17 function as partners in the same regulatory pathway during seed development and specifically regulate cell cycle progression to control embryo/seed size. This work reveals that NtRPL17, as a widely distributed ribosomal protein, plays a critical role in seed development and provides a new clue in the regulation of seed size. Confirmation of the interaction between NtKRP and NtRPL17 and their co-function in the control of the cell cycle also suggests that the mechanism might be conserved in both plants and animals. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Society for Experimental Biology.

Effect of yield to tensile (Y/T) ratio on the structural integrity of offshore pipeline: advanced engineering assessment using limit state design approach

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Malatesta, G; Mannucci, G; Demofonti, G [Centro Sviluppo Materiali S.p.A., Rome (Italy); Cumino, G [TenarisDalmine (Italy); Izquierdo, A; Tivelli, M [Tenaris Group (Mexico); Quintanilla, H [TENARIS Group (Mexico). TAMSA

2005-07-01

Nowadays specifications require strict Yield to Tensile ratio limitation, nevertheless a fully accepted engineering assessment of its influence on pipeline integrity is still lacking. Probabilistic analysis based on structural reliability approach (Limit State Design) aimed at quantifying the Y/T ratio influence on failure probabilities of offshore pipelines was made. In particular, Tenaris seamless pipe data were used as input for the probabilistic failure analysis. The LSD approach has been applied to two actual deep water design cases that have been on purpose selected, and the most relevant failure modes have been considered. Main result of the work is that the quantitative effect of the Y/T ratio on failure probabilities of a deep water pipeline resulted not so big as expected; it has a minor effect, especially when failure modes are governed by Y only. (author)

Verkkoyhteisöpalveluiden käytön hyödyt ja haitat työllistyvyydelle

OpenAIRE

Toivonen, Julia

2016-01-01

Sosiaalisen median käyttö on kasvanut viime vuosina huomattavasti ja verkkoyhteisöpalveluiden käyttö työllistyvyyden edistämisen apuna on kasvussa. Verkkoyhteisöpalveluiden käytöllä voidaan katsoa olevan sekä positiivia että negatiivisia vaikutuksia yksilön työllistyvyydelle. Sosiaalisella medialla on suuri mahdollisuus toimia erityisen tehokkaana osana yksilön työllistyvyyden edistämistä, sillä sosiaalinen media tarjoaa paljon mahdollisuuksia rekrytointiin, omien taitojen esille tuomiseen se...

End of NICE 95 and NICE NT services (Reminder)

CERN Multimedia

2003-01-01

You are concerned by this article if you still use a computer running NICE 95 or NICE NT. As recommended by the Desktop Forum, NICE 95 and NT services are progressively phased out according to the following schedule: Since 31st January 2003: NICE 95/NT have been frozen. Applications are still able to run, but the helpdesk does not address any NICE 95/NT problems anymore. It is not possible to reinstall NICE 95/NT anymore. Disk images of the original Windows 95 and Windows NT CDs are available on the network, but it is up to the user to create those CDs, reinstall the machine(s), as well as to locate and install: - the required applications, - the device drivers for special hardware, - the necessary security patches, - an anti-virus software (Operational Circular N 5 of CERN's Computing Rules (http://cern.ch/ComputingRules) requires that Windows PCs are regularly checked for viruses). The original Windows 95 and Windows NT CD images can be obtained from http://cern.ch/win/services/installation/CDImages (ple...

Uusiomateriaalien käytön ohjeistuksen ja hankekäytäntöjen kehitystarpeet ja mahdollisuudet tierakentamisessa

OpenAIRE

Torniainen, S. (Sanna)

2018-01-01

Tiivistelmä Suomessa käytetään huomattava määrä neitseellistä luonnonkiviainesta tierakentamisessa vuosittain. Uusiomateriaalien soveltuvuutta ja käyttöä tierakentamisessa on tutkittu jo kymmenien vuosien ajan ja etenkin viimeisten vuosien aikana niiden käyttö on hiljalleen kasvanut. Tutkimuksista ja erilaisista kehitysohjelmista huolimatta uusiomateriaalien käyttö ei kuitenkaan ole lisääntynyt ja laajentunut toivotulla tav...

Suunnittelutiedon hallinta omaperusteisessa toimitilatuotannossa

OpenAIRE

Koljonen, Karoliina

2013-01-01

Tämän opinnäytetyön tavoitteena oli löytää keinoja suunnittelutiedon hallintaan omaperusteisissa toimitilakohteissa suunnittelu- ja toteutusvaiheen aikana. Työn tarkoituksena oli järjestelmällistää ja kehittää toimeksiantajan suunnittelunohjauskäytäntöjä. Työ on tehty perustajaurakoitsijan näkökulmasta ja opinnäytetyön aiheen on antanut YIT Rakennus Oy. Työssä tutustuttiin YIT:n tapaan rakentaa omaperusteisia toimistokohteita ja ohjata suunnitteluprosessia. Osana työtä tehtiin 15 haastatt...

Mainosideoista sähköisiin sisältöihin : sisältöstrategian merkitys mainostoimistojen digitaalisissa palveluissa

OpenAIRE

Pasanen, Riikka

2012-01-01

Sisältöstrategia on suunnittelukäytäntö, jonka tähtää liiketoiminnallisiin tavoitteisiin vaikuttavan verkkosisällön avulla. Tutkimuksessa tarkastellaan hyvän verkkosisällön kriteerejä ja pohditaan, voisiko mainostoimisto ottaa oppia sisältöstrategian käytännöistä ja tarjota sen avulla parempaa palvelua asiakkailleen. Tutkimusta varten on haastateltu neljää mainonnan strategisen suunnittelun ja asiakasjohdon ammattilaista, joiden näkemyksiä on peilattu tutkijan pitkään kokemukseen alalta sekä ...

Tietoa kosketuksen päässä : NFC-teknologia innovatiivisten käyttötapausten kautta

OpenAIRE

Toivanen, Sanna

2012-01-01

Opinnäytetyöni tutkii vähittäiskauppaa, NFC-teknologiaa, sekä innovointia prosessien kautta käytäntöön. Tavoitteena oli löytää uusia ideoita NFC-teknologian käyttöön, pää-asiassa vähittäiskauppakontekstissa. Työn tutkimuksellinen osuus koostuu tutkimus-haastatteluista, innovaatiotyöpajoista, sekä kirjallisuuskatsauksesta edellä mainittuihin aiheisiin liittyen. NFC tulee sanoista Near Field Communication ja suomeksi se on kääntynyt lähitunnis-tamiseksi tai lähitunnistusteknologiaksi. NFC-t...

NT-proBNP

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Andersen, Charlotte; Mellemkjær, Søren; Hilberg, Ole

2016-01-01

BACKGROUND: Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a serious complication to interstitial lung disease (ILD) and has a poor prognosis. PH is often diagnosed by screening with echocardiography followed by right heart catheterisation. A previous study has shown that a value of NT-pro-brain natriuretic...

Biodegradation of Di-(2-ethylhexyl) Phthalate by Rhodococcus ruber YC-YT1 in Contaminated Water and Soil

OpenAIRE

Ting Yang; Lei Ren; Yang Jia; Shuanghu Fan; Junhuan Wang; Jiayi Wang; Ruth Nahurira; Haisheng Wang; Yanchun Yan

2018-01-01

Di-(2-ethylehxyl) phthalate (DEHP) is one of the most broadly representative phthalic acid esters (PAEs) used as a plasticizer in polyvinyl chloride (PVC) production, and is considered to be an endocrine-disrupting chemical. DEHP and its monoester metabolites are responsible for adverse effects on human health. An efficient DEHP-degrading bacterial strain Rhodococcus ruber YC-YT1, with super salt tolerance (0–12% NaCl), is the first DEHP-degrader isolated from marine plastic debris found in c...

NT-proBNP concentrations in mountain marathoners.

Science.gov (United States)

Banfi, Giuseppe; Lippi, Giuseppe; Susta, Daniele; Barassi, Alessandra; D'Eril, Gianvico Melzi; Dogliotti, Giada; Corsi, Massimiliano M

2010-05-01

The 76 amino acid N-terminal proB-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) is proposed for evaluating and monitoring heart pathologies characterized by myocardial wall stress. Strenuous exercise might generate transitory ischemia, myocardial stress, and diastolic left ventricular dysfunction, possibly inducing an increase of some biochemical parameter concentrations. An alert has been claimed owing to biochemical and instrumental signs of heart dysfunction in recreational athletes during marathon races. We studied the behaviour of NT-proBNP in 15 mountain marathoners before and after a race. The concentrations of the parameter were lower than that observed in controls at rest and were similar to that observed in professional soccer and rugby players. The concentrations significantly increased after the race. NT-proBNP is low at rest in professional athletes, and the increase after physical exercise is physiological. The marathoners, even when performing races in a high-altitude environment, show NT-proBNP concentrations similar to those of athletes from other sports disciplines, characterized by low levels of effort and by a mix of aerobic and anaerobic metabolism. The increase of NT-proBNP is linked to strenuous physical exercise and to heavy heart effort, testified also by an increase of troponin I. However, the role of the NT-proBNP could be important to screen recreational and professional marathoners to avoid possible heart problems and sudden cardiac death in subjects with occult heart disease. The results of the present study are relevant to the design and evaluation of training programs for improving strength and function of professional marathoners.

Pharmacokinetics of intravenous and oral tramadol in the bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus).

Science.gov (United States)

Souza, Marcy J; Martin-Jimenez, Tomas; Jones, Michael P; Cox, Sherry K

2009-12-01

Analgesia is becoming increasingly important in veterinary medicine, and little research has been performed that examined pain control in avian species. Tramadol is a relatively new drug that provides analgesia by opioid (mu), serotonin, and norepinephrine pathways, with minimal adverse effects. To determine the pharmacokinetics of tramadol and its major metabolite O-desmethyltramadol (M1) in eagles, 6 bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) were each dosed with tramadol administered intravenously (4 mg/kg) and orally (11 mg/kg) in a crossover study. Blood was collected at various time points between 0 and 600 minutes and then analyzed with high-performance liquid chromatography to determine levels of tramadol and M1, the predominate active metabolite. The terminal half-life of tramadol after intravenous dosing was 2.46 hours. The maximum plasma concentration, time of maximum plasma concentration, and terminal half life for tramadol after oral dosing were 2156.7 ng/ml, 3.75 hours, and 3.14 hours, respec vely. In addition, the oral bioavailability was 97.9%. Although plasma concentrations of ramadol and M1 associated with analgesia in any avian species is unknown, based on the obtained data and known therapeutic levels in humans, a dosage of 5 mg/kg PO q12h is recommended for bald eagles. Pharmacodynamic studies are needed to better determine plasma levels of tramadol and M1 associated with analgesia in birds.

To migrate, stay put, or wander? Varied movement strategies in bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus).

Science.gov (United States)

Wheat, Rachel E; Lewis, Stephen B; Wang, Yiwei; Levi, Taal; Wilmers, Christopher C

2017-01-01

Quantifying individual variability in movement behavior is critical to understanding population-level patterns in animals. Here, we explore intraspecific variation in movement strategies of bald eagles ( Haliaeetus leucocephalus ) in the north Pacific, where there is high spatiotemporal resource variability. We tracked 28 bald eagles (five immature, 23 adult) using GPS transmitters between May 2010 and January 2016. We found evidence of four movement strategies among bald eagles in southeastern Alaska and western Canada: breeding individuals that were largely sedentary and remained near nest sites year-round, non-breeding migratory individuals that made regular seasonal travel between northern summer and southern winter ranges, non-breeding localized individuals that displayed fidelity to foraging sites, and non-breeding nomadic individuals with irregular movement. On average, males traveled farther per day than females. Most nomadic individuals were immature, and all residential individuals (i.e. breeders and localized birds) were adults. Alternative movement strategies among north Pacific eagles are likely associated with the age and sex class, as well as breeding status, of an individual. Intraspecific variation in movement strategies within the population results in different space use patterns among contingents, which has important implications for conservation and management.

Sincronización de Células de Tabaco (Nicotiana tabacum) NT-1 Synchronization of tobacco cells (Nicotiana tabacum) NT-1

OpenAIRE

León F Ruiz; Ana E Higareda; Marco A Pardo

2010-01-01

Se ha evaluado la capacidad sincronizante de afidicolina e hidroxiurea en cultivos de células de tabaco (Nicotiana tabacum) NT-1. Los cultivos sincronizados son poderosas herramientas en estudios moleculares y bioquímicos relacionados al ciclo celular y comúnmente se utilizan químicos para bloquear el ciclo celular. La línea celular de tabaco (Nicotiana tabacum) NT-1 proviene de la línea celular TBY-2, caracterizándose NT-1 por su menor velocidad de crecimiento y tamaño celular heterogéneo. L...

Differential ontogenetic patterns of levocabastine-sensitive neurotensin NT2 receptors and of NT1 receptors in the rat brain revealed by in situ hybridization.

Science.gov (United States)

Lépée-Lorgeoux, I; Betancur, C; Rostène, W; Pélaprat, D

1999-03-12

The postnatal ontogeny of the levocabastine-sensitive neurotensin receptor (NT2) mRNA was studied by in situ hybridization in the rat brain and compared with the distribution of the levocabastine-insensitive NT1 receptor. NT2 receptor mRNA was absent at birth from all brain structures except the ependymal cell layer lining the ventricles. The development of NT2 receptor mRNA followed three ontogenetic patterns. The first pattern, involving the majority of the cerebral gray matter, was characterized by a continuous increase from postnatal day 5 (P5) to P30. The second one, involving regions rich in myelinated fibers such as the corpus callosum and lacunosum moleculare layer of the hippocampus, exhibited a pronounced increase between P5 and P10, peaked at P15 and was followed by a plateau or a slight decrease. The third pattern was observed in the ependymal cell layer lining the olfactory and lateral ventricles, where the high labeling already present at birth continued to increase during development. These different developmental patterns could reflect the variety of cells expressing NT2 receptor mRNA, including neurons, protoplasmic astrocytes in gray matter, fibrous astrocytes present in myelinated fibers tracts, and ependymal cells. In contrast, NT1 receptor mRNA, which seems to be associated only with neurons, was highly and transiently expressed during the perinatal period in the cerebral cortex, hippocampus and striatal neuroepithelium. Other regions, notably the ventral tegmental area and substantia nigra compacta, exhibited a gradual increase in NT1 receptor signal, reaching adult levels by P21. Both the differential localization and ontogenetic profiles of NT1 and NT2 receptor mRNAs suggest different involvement of these two receptors in brain functions and development. Copyright 1999 Elsevier Science B.V.

Affiliate-markkinoinnin käytäntöjä ja haasteita

OpenAIRE

Rakkolainen, Oleg

2016-01-01

Jatkuvasti yhä enemmän digitalisoituvassa maailmassa yritykset etsivät parasta vastinetta markkinointibudjetilleen digitaalisista medioista. Affiliate-markkinointi tarjoaakin mainostajille vastinetta rahoilleen tulospohjaisella muodollaan; mitä enemmän tulosta kumppani, julkaisija, tuottaa, sitä suuremman palkkion hän saa. Affiliate-markkinoinnissa välikätenä toimivat usein affiliate-verkosto, jotka saattavat julkaisijat ja mainostajat tarjoamalla omia alustojaan kummankin osapuolen käyttöön....

Terminologia työvälineenä – aikamuotojärjestelmästä ja sen opetuskäytänteiden ergonomiasta S2-opetuksessa

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Maria Kok

2012-10-01

Full Text Available Artikkeli käsittelee kahta ongelmalliseksi osoittautunutta verbien tempusnimitystä, perfektiä ja imperfektiä. Tarkastelen kirjoituksessani nimitysten välittämää informaatiota, jota vertaan S2-oppikirjoissa aikamuotojen käytöstä annettuun tietoon. Kriittisen katsauksen tavoitteena on osoittaa harhaanjohtavien termien haitta ja hyvän metakielen tarve sekä myös pohtia keinoja virheellisten nimitysten korjaamiseksi. Teoreettisena viitekehyksenä on työolosuhteita, työvälineitä ja työtapoja tutkiva ergonomia. Koska kielen opetus ja opiskelu ovat työtä ja metakieli on työväline, jolla opettaja ja opiskelijat yhdessä työskentelevät, on käytettävän termistön ammatillinen ja käytännönläheinen arviointi tarpeen. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5128/LV22.04

Bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus population increases in Placentia Bay, Newfoundland: evidence for habitat saturation?

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Karla R. Letto

2015-06-01

Full Text Available Across North America, Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus populations appear to be recovering following bans of DDT. A limited number of studies from across North America have recorded a surplus of nonbreeding adult Bald Eagles in dense populations when optimal habitat and food become limited. Placentia Bay, Newfoundland is one of these. The area has one of the highest densities of Bald Eagles in eastern North America, and has recently experienced an increase in the proportion of nonbreeding adults within the population. We tested whether the observed Bald Eagle population trends in Placentia Bay, Newfoundland during the breeding seasons 1990-2009 are due to habitat saturation. We found no significant differences in habitat or food resource characteristics between occupied territories and pseudo-absence data or between nest sites with high vs. low nest activity/occupancy rates. Therefore there is no evidence for habitat saturation for Bald Eagles in Placentia Bay and alternative hypotheses for the high proportion of nonbreeding adults should be considered. The Newfoundland population provides an interesting case for examination because it did not historically appear to be affected by pollution. An understanding of Bald Eagle population dynamics in a relatively pristine area with a high density can be informative for restoration and conservation of Bald Eagle populations elsewhere.

Linear flow dynamics near a T/NT interface

Science.gov (United States)

Teixeira, Miguel; Silva, Carlos

2011-11-01

The characteristics of a suddenly-inserted T/NT interface separating a homogeneous and isotropic shear-free turbulence region from a non-turbulent flow region are investigated using rapid distortion theory (RDT), taking full account of viscous effects. Profiles of the velocity variances, TKE, viscous dissipation rate, turbulence length scales, and pressure statistics are derived, showing very good agreement with DNS. The normalized inviscid flow statistics at the T/NT interface do not depend on the form of the assumed TKE spectrum. In the non-turbulent region, where the flow is irrotational (except within a thin viscous boundary layer), the dissipation rate decays as z-6, where z is distance from the T/NT interface. The mean pressure exhibits a decrease towards the turbulence due to the associated velocity fluctuations, consistent with the generation of a mean entrainment velocity. The vorticity variance and dissipation rate display large maxima at the T/NT interface due to the existing inviscid discontinuities of the tangential velocity, and these maxima are quantitatively related to the thickness of the viscous boundary layer (VBL). At equilibrium, RDT suggests that the thickness of the T/NT interface scales on the Kolmogorov microscale. We acknowledge the financial support of FCT under Project PTDC/EME-MFE/099636/2008.

Best management practices and work plan for installation of and monitoring at temporary weirs and flumes at NT-3, NT-4, and NT-5 Oak Ridge Y-12 Plant, Oak Ridge, Tennessee

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

1998-02-01

This Best Management Practices (BMP) and Work Plan has been developed in order to maintain compliance with applicable regulatory requirements by documenting the practices that are required during the installation and maintenance of temporary weirs and flumes at the NT-3, NT-4, and NT-5 tributaries, subsequent collection of water discharge data, and removal of the weirs and flumes. The practices included in this BMP comply with the Clean Water Act and the intent of Sect. 70-8-104(b) of the Tennessee Code Annotated: Tennessee Wildlife Resources Commission Proclamation 94-16 to prevent the destruction of the habitat of state-listed wildlife species that are designated as open-quotes in need of management.close quotes

Particulated articular cartilage: CAIS and DeNovo NT.

Science.gov (United States)

Farr, Jack; Cole, Brian J; Sherman, Seth; Karas, Vasili

2012-03-01

Cartilage Autograft Implantation System (CAIS; DePuy/Mitek, Raynham, MA) and DeNovo Natural Tissue (NT; ISTO, St. Louis, MO) are novel treatment options for focal articular cartilage defects in the knee. These methods involve the implantation of particulated articular cartilage from either autograft or juvenile allograft donor, respectively. In the laboratory and in animal models, both CAIS and DeNovo NT have demonstrated the ability of the transplanted cartilage cells to "escape" from the extracellular matrix, migrate, multiply, and form a new hyaline-like cartilage tissue matrix that integrates with the surrounding host tissue. In clinical practice, the technique for both CAIS and DeNovo NT is straightforward, requiring only a single surgery to affect cartilage repair. Clinical experience is limited, with short-term studies demonstrating both procedures to be safe, feasible, and effective, with improvements in subjective patient scores, and with magnetic resonance imaging evidence of good defect fill. While these treatment options appear promising, prospective randomized controlled studies are necessary to refine the indications and contraindications for both CAIS and DeNovo NT.

A CoGeNT confirmation of the DAMA signal

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Foot, R.

2010-01-01

The CoGeNT Collaboration has recently reported a rising low energy spectrum in their ultra low noise Germanium detector. This is particularly interesting as the energy range probed by CoGeNT overlaps with the energy region in which DAMA has observed their annual modulation signal. We show that the mirror dark matter candidate can simultaneously explain both the DAMA annual modulation signal and the rising low energy spectrum observed by CoGeNT. This constitutes a model dependent confirmation of the DAMA signal and adds weight to the mirror dark matter paradigm.

Some haltuun : Murrosikäisen sosiaalisen median käytön ohjaus terveydenhoitajan työssä

OpenAIRE

Paavola, Pinja; Haapala, Lotta

2016-01-01

Opinnäytetyön tavoitteena oli lisätä terveydenhoitajien tietämystä sosiaalisesta mediasta, jotta he osaavat ohjata murrosikäisiä sosiaalisen median turvallisessa käytössä ja, että murrosikäinen voi käyttää sosiaalista mediaa turvallisesti. Tarkoituksena oli selvittää, miten murrosikäinen käyttää sosiaalisen median sovelluksia ja miten terveydenhoitaja voisi ohjata sosiaalisen median turvalliseen käyttöön. Tutkimuskysymyksinä oli selvittää; mitä murrosikäinen tietää sosiaalisen median turvalli...

Rise and fall of NT-proBNP in aortic valve intervention.

Science.gov (United States)

Hultkvist, Henrik; Holm, Jonas; Svedjeholm, Rolf; Vánky, Farkas

2018-01-01

To describe the dynamics of N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) from preoperative evaluation to 6-month follow-up in patients undergoing aortic valve intervention, and to evaluate NT-proBNP with regard to 1-year mortality. At preoperative evaluation, we prospectively included 462 patients accepted for aortic valve intervention. The median time to surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR; n=336) or transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI; n=126) was 4 months. NT-proBNP was measured at enrolment for preoperative evaluation, on the day of surgery, postoperatively on day 1, day 3 and at the 6-month follow-up. Subgroups of patients undergoing SAVR with aortic regurgitation and aortic stenosis with and without coronary artery bypass were also analysed. NT-proBNP remained stable in all subgroups during the preoperative waiting period, but displayed a substantial transient early postoperative increase with a peak on day 3 except in the TAVI group, which peaked on day 1. At the 6-month follow-up, NT-proBNP had decreased to or below the preoperative level in all groups. In the SAVR group, NT-proBNP preoperatively and on postoperative days 1 and 3 revealed significant discriminatory power with regard to 1-year mortality (area under the curve (AUC)=0.79, P=0.0001; AUC=0.71, P=0.03; and AUC=0.79, P=0.002, respectively). This was not found in the TAVI group, which had higher levels of NT-proBNP both preoperatively and at the 6-month follow-up compared with the SAVR group. The dynamic profile of NT-proBNP differed between patients undergoing TAVI and SAVR. NT-proBNP in the perioperative course was associated with increased risk of 1-year mortality in SAVR but not in TAVI.

Changes in Air CO2 Concentration Differentially Alter Transcript Levels of NtAQP1 and NtPIP2;1 Aquaporin Genes in Tobacco Leaves

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Francesca Secchi

2016-04-01

Full Text Available The aquaporin specific control on water versus carbon pathways in leaves is pivotal in controlling gas exchange and leaf hydraulics. We investigated whether Nicotiana tabacum aquaporin 1 (NtAQP1 and Nicotiana tabacum plasma membrane intrinsic protein 2;1 (NtPIP2;1 gene expression varies in tobacco leaves subjected to treatments with different CO2 concentrations (ranging from 0 to 800 ppm, inducing changes in photosynthesis, stomatal regulation and water evaporation from the leaf. Changes in air CO2 concentration ([CO2] affected net photosynthesis (Pn and leaf substomatal [CO2] (Ci. Pn was slightly negative at 0 ppm air CO2; it was one-third that of ambient controls at 200 ppm, and not different from controls at 800 ppm. Leaves fed with 800 ppm [CO2] showed one-third reduced stomatal conductance (gs and transpiration (E, and their gs was in turn slightly lower than in 200 ppm– and in 0 ppm–treated leaves. The 800 ppm air [CO2] strongly impaired both NtAQP1 and NtPIP2;1 gene expression, whereas 0 ppm air [CO2], a concentration below any in vivo possible conditions and specifically chosen to maximize the gene expression alteration, increased only the NtAQP1 transcript level. We propose that NtAQP1 expression, an aquaporin devoted to CO2 transport, positively responds to CO2 scarcity in the air in the whole range 0–800 ppm. On the contrary, expression of NtPIP2;1, an aquaporin not devoted to CO2 transport, is related to water balance in the leaf, and changes in parallel with gs. These observations fit in a model where upregulation of leaf aquaporins is activated at low Ci, while downregulation occurs when high Ci saturates photosynthesis and causes stomatal closure.

On the DAMA and CoGeNT Modulations

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Frandsen, Mads Toudal; Kahlhoefer, Felix; March-Russell, John

2011-01-01

DAMA observes an annual modulation in their event rate, as might be expected from dark matter scatterings, while CoGeNT has reported evidence for a similar modulation. The simplest interpretation of these findings in terms of dark matter-nucleus scatterings is excluded by other direct detection...... constraints, while inelasticity enhances the annual modulation fraction of the signal, bringing the CoGeNT and CDMS results into better agreement....

Learning from Clostridium novyi-NT: How to defeat cancer

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Li Wang

2018-01-01

Full Text Available Side effects associated with conventional anticancer therapies have prompted the new idea of solid tumor treatment strategy. One of them is using bacteria explored as potential antitumor agents over more than one century. Notably, the ideal therapy is a specifical target to tumors with limited toxicity. Here, we take “Clostridium novyi” for the search keyword in the PubMed from 2000 to 2015 and describe that C. novyi-NT spores act as “Trojan horse” for bacteriolytic therapy. This therapy is based on the fact that the live and attenuated obligate anaerobic bacteria are capable of binary fission selectively in anoxic areas of solid tumors and direct tumoricidal effects. Our succinct review mainly concentrates on the potential mechanisms of combination bacteriolytic therapy, an effective and safe tumor therapy with the help of C. novyi-NT. Importantly, C. novyi-NT spores were shown to induce solid tumor regression and exhibit the property to initiate an immune response. Therefore, C. novyi-NT spores should be an effective and safe tumor therapy.

Permeability of the blood-brain barrier to the neurotensin8-13 analog NT1.

Science.gov (United States)

Banks, W A; Wustrow, D J; Cody, W L; Davis, M D; Kastin, A J

1995-10-09

Neurotensin (NT) has been suggested to be a neuropeptide with therapeutic potential. We used multiple-time regression analysis to measure the unidirectional influx constant (Ki) of a tritiated analog of NT8-13, NT1, with improved metabolic stability. The Ki of [3H]NT1 across the blood-brain barrier (BBB) was 5.12(10(-4)) ml/g-min and was decreased 66% by unlabeled NT1 system. The amount of NT1 crossing the BBB, 0.087% of the injected dose per gram of brain, is consistent with its exerting central effects after peripheral administration. The stable [3H]NT1 crossed the BBB in intact form as assessed by HPLC and completely crossed the endothelial cells that comprise the BBB as assessed by the capillary depletion method. The presence of a transport system could be important for the development of NT analogs.

High-level expression, secretion, and purification of the thermostable aqualysin I from Thermus aquaticus YT-1 in Pichia pastoris

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Oledzka, G.; Dabrowski, Slawomir; Kur, J.

2003-01-01

Aqualysin I is a heat-stable subtilisin-type serine protease which is secreted into the culture medium by Thermus aquaticus YT-1, an extreme thermophile. We report the high-level expression of an aqualysin I protein using its native signal sequence for secretion in the methylotrophic yeast, Pichia...... to that of the native enzyme. We also explored the possibility of secreting the GAP expressed aqualysin I in P. pastoris by in-frame fusion of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae alpha-factor secretion signal. However, the levels of secreted pro-aqualysin I particles were approximately 10 times lower, possibly...

HYDRAULICS AND MIXING EVALUATIONS FOR NT-21/41 TANKS

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Lee, S.; Barnes, O.

2014-11-17

The hydraulic results demonstrate that pump head pressure of 20 psi recirculates about 5.6 liters/min flowrate through the existing 0.131-inch orifice when a valve connected to NT-41 is closed. In case of the valve open to NT-41, the solution flowrates to HB-Line tanks, NT-21 and NT-41, are found to be about 0.5 lpm and 5.2 lpm, respectively. The modeling calculations for the mixing operations of miscible fluids contained in the HB-Line tank NT-21 were performed by taking a three-dimensional Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) approach. The CFD modeling results were benchmarked against the literature results and the previous SRNL test results to validate the model. Final performance calculations were performed for the nominal case by using the validated model to quantify the mixing time for the HB-Line tank. The results demonstrate that when a pump recirculates a solution volume of 5.7 liters every minute out of the 72-liter tank contents containing two acid solutions of 2.7 M and 0 M concentrations (i.e., water), a minimum mixing time of 1.5 hours is adequate for the tank contents to get the tank contents adequately mixed. In addition, the sensitivity results for the tank contents of 8 M existing solution and 1.5 M incoming species show that the mixing time takes about 2 hours to get the solutions mixed.

The N-terminal neurotensin fragment, NT1-11, inhibits cortisol secretion by human adrenocortical cells.

Science.gov (United States)

Sicard, Flavie; Contesse, Vincent; Lefebvre, Hervé; Ait-Ali, Djida; Gras, Marjorie; Cartier, Dorthe; Decker, Annick; Chartrel, Nicolas; Anouar, Youssef; Vaudry, Hubert; Delarue, Catherine

2006-08-01

Neurotensin (NT) modulates corticosteroid secretion from the mammalian adrenal gland. The objective of this study was to investigate the possible involvement of NT in the control of cortisol secretion in the human adrenal gland. In vitro studies were conducted on cultured human adrenocortical cells. This study was conducted in a university research laboratory. Adrenal explants from patients undergoing expanded nephrectomy for kidney cancer were studied. Cortisol secretion from cultured adrenocortical cells was measured. NT1-11, the N-terminal fragment of NT, dose-dependently inhibited basal and ACTH-stimulated cortisol production by human adrenocortical cells in primary culture. In contrast, NT had no influence on cortisol output at concentrations up to 10(-6) m. HPLC and RT-PCR analyses failed to detect any significant amounts of NT and NT mRNA, respectively, in adrenal extracts. Molecular and pharmacological studies were performed to determine the type of NT receptor involved in the corticostatic effect of NT1-11. RT-PCR analysis revealed the expression of NT receptor type (NTR) 3 mRNA but not NTR1 and NTR2 mRNAs in the human adrenal tissue. However, the pharmacological profile of the adrenal NT1-11 receptor was different from that of NTR3, indicating that this receptor type is not involved in the action of NT1-11 on corticosteroidogenesis. Our results indicate that NT1-11 may act as an endocrine factor to inhibit cortisol secretion through activation of a receptor distinct from the classical NTR1, NTR2, and NTR3.

Strength and Fatigue of NT551 Silicon Nitride and NT551 Diesel Exhaust Valves

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Andrews, M.J.; Wereszczak, A.A.; Kirkland, T.P.; Breder, K.

2000-02-01

The content of this report is excerpted from Mark Andrew's Ph.D. Thesis (Andrews, 1999), which was funded by a DOEYOTT High Temperature Materials Laboratory Graduate Fellowship. It involves the characterization of NT551 and valves fabricated with it. Greater detail of the described issues may be found in that reference or through communications with Andrew Wereszczak.

Characterization of Non-Linearized Spacecraft Relative Motion using Nonlinear Normal Modes

Science.gov (United States)

2016-04-20

the HCW equation (Eq. (2) expressed in terms of relative orbit elements (ROEs) [17], x(t) = −ae 2 cos(β) + xd y(t) = ae sin(β) + yd z(t) = zm cos(ψ...30) where ae, xd , zm are constant and yd(t) = yd0− 32nxdt, β(t) = β0 +nt and ψ(t) = ψ0 +nt are time dependent. It is clear that (ae, zm, xd , yd0, β0...quantities correspond to the ambiguous orbit. It is noted that if the non- drifting condition xd = 0 is satisfied, Eqs. (37-40) will vanish. In the

Työn ja vapaa-ajan tasapaino

OpenAIRE

Yoshida, Teemu

2013-01-01

Tämän opinnäytetyön aiheena oli työn ja vapaa-ajan tasapainon hallinta. Työssä paneuduttiin työn ja vapaa-ajan tasapainon määrittelyn vaikeuteen sekä tasapainon löytämisen mukanaan tuomiin hyötyihin. Tavoitteena oli selvittää, mitkä tekijät vaikuttavat työntekijän elämän tasapainoon. Tutkimus on rajattu organisaation näkökulmasta niihin tunnusmerkkeihin ja käytäntöihin, jotka määrittelevät perheystävällisen organisaatiokulttuurin unohtamatta kuitenkaan yksineläviä työntekijöitä. Työntekijän ...

Transcriptional coactivator NT-PGC-1α promotes gluconeogenic gene expression and enhances hepatic gluconeogenesis.

Science.gov (United States)

Chang, Ji Suk; Jun, Hee-Jin; Park, Minsung

2016-10-01

The transcriptional coactivator PGC-1α plays a central role in hepatic gluconeogenesis. We previously reported that alternative splicing of the PGC-1α gene produces an additional transcript encoding the truncated protein NT-PGC-1α NT-PGC-1α is co-expressed with PGC-1α and highly induced by fasting in the liver. NT-PGC-1α regulates tissue-specific metabolism, but its role in the liver has not been investigated. Thus, the objective of this study was to determine the role of hepatic NT-PGC-1α in the regulation of gluconeogenesis. Adenovirus-mediated expression of NT-PGC-1α in primary hepatocytes strongly stimulated the expression of key gluconeogenic enzyme genes (PEPCK and G6Pase), leading to increased glucose production. To further understand NT-PGC-1α function in hepatic gluconeogenesis in vivo, we took advantage of a previously reported FL-PGC-1α -/- mouse line that lacks full-length PGC-1α (FL-PGC-1α) but retains a slightly shorter and functionally equivalent form of NT-PGC-1α (NT-PGC-1α 254 ). In FL-PGC-1α -/- mice, NT-PGC-1α 254 was induced by fasting in the liver and recruited to the promoters of PEPCK and G6Pase genes. The enrichment of NT-PGC-1α 254 at the promoters was closely associated with fasting-induced increase in PEPCK and G6Pase gene expression and efficient production of glucose from pyruvate during a pyruvate tolerance test in FL-PGC-1α -/- mice. Moreover, FL-PGC-1α -/- primary hepatocytes showed a significant increase in gluconeogenic gene expression and glucose production after treatment with dexamethasone and forskolin, suggesting that NT-PGC-1α 254 is sufficient to stimulate the gluconeogenic program in the absence of FL-PGC-1α Collectively, our findings highlight the role of hepatic NT-PGC-1α in stimulating gluconeogenic gene expression and glucose production. © 2016 The Authors. Physiological Reports published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of the American Physiological Society and The Physiological Society.

Distinct functional characteristics of levocabastine sensitive rat neurotensin NT2 receptor expressed in Chinese hamster ovary cells.

Science.gov (United States)

Yamada, M; Yamada, M; Lombet, A; Forgez, P; Rostène, W

1998-01-01

Neurotensin has been shown to produce pharmacological effects both in brain and periphery. Several of these effects are mediated by a high-affinity neurotensin NT1 receptor. On the other hand, a low-affinity levocabastine-sensitive neurotensin NT2 receptor was molecularly cloned from rodent brain recently. In this study, in contrast to NT1 receptor, levocabastine (a histamine H1 receptor antagonist) and SR48692 (an antagonist for NT1 receptor) strongly stimulated intracellular Ca2+ mobilization in transfected Chinese hamster ovary cells expressing rat NT2 receptor, thus acting as potent NT2 receptor. Furthermore, despite of their affinities for NT2 receptor, the Ca2+ responses to potent NT1 agonists, neurotensin or JMV449 ([Lys8-(CH2NH)-Lys9]Pro-Tyr-Ile-Leu, a peptidase resistant analogue of neurotensin) were much smaller than that observed with SR48692. These findings suggest that NT1 and NT2 receptors present distinct functional characteristics and that SR48692 may act as a potent agonist for NT2 receptor.

NT-proBNP, Cardiometabolic Risk Factors, and Nutritional Status in Hemodialysis Patients

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Jacques Ducros

2017-01-01

Full Text Available Background. We aimed to evaluate the association between NT-proBNP and malnutrition in HD patients while taking into account the four established categories of parameters for diagnosis of protein energy wasting (PEW. Methods. A cross-sectional study was performed in Afro-Caribbean dialysis patients. One component in each of the 4 categories for the wasting syndrome was retained: serum albumin ≤ 38 g/L, BMI ≤ 23 Kg/m2, serum creatinine ≤ 818 µmol/L, and normalized protein catabolic rate (nPCR ≤ 0.8 g/kg/day. NT-proBNP was assessed using a chemiluminescence immunoassay. Two multivariate logistic regression models were performed to determine the parameters associated with high NT-proBNP concentrations. Results. In 207 HD patients, 16.9% had PEW (at least three components. LVEF lower than 60% was found in 13.8% of patients. NT-proBNP levels ranged from 125 to 33144 pg/mL. In model 1, high levels of NT-proBNP (≥6243 pg/mL were independently associated with PEW OR 14.2 (3.25–62.4, male gender 2.80 (1.22–6.57, hsCRP > 5 mg/L 3.90 (1.77–8.57, and dialysis vintage > 3 years 3.84 (1.35–10.8. In model 2, LVEF OR was 0.93 (0.88–0.98. NT-proBNP concentrations were significantly higher when the PEW component number was higher. Conclusion. In dialysis patients, high NT-proBNP levels must draw attention to cardiac function but also to nutritional status.

A Virtual Astronomical Research Machine in No Time (VARMiNT)

Science.gov (United States)

Beaver, John

2012-05-01

We present early results of using virtual machine software to help make astronomical research computing accessible to a wider range of individuals. Our Virtual Astronomical Research Machine in No Time (VARMiNT) is an Ubuntu Linux virtual machine with free, open-source software already installed and configured (and in many cases documented). The purpose of VARMiNT is to provide a ready-to-go astronomical research computing environment that can be freely shared between researchers, or between amateur and professional, teacher and student, etc., and to circumvent the often-difficult task of configuring a suitable computing environment from scratch. Thus we hope that VARMiNT will make it easier for individuals to engage in research computing even if they have no ready access to the facilities of a research institution. We describe our current version of VARMiNT and some of the ways it is being used at the University of Wisconsin - Fox Valley, a two-year teaching campus of the University of Wisconsin System, as a means to enhance student independent study research projects and to facilitate collaborations with researchers at other locations. We also outline some future plans and prospects.

Scaling proprioceptor gene transcription by retrograde NT3 signaling.

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Jun Lee

Full Text Available Cell-type specific intrinsic programs instruct neuronal subpopulations before target-derived factors influence later neuronal maturation. Retrograde neurotrophin signaling controls neuronal survival and maturation of dorsal root ganglion (DRG sensory neurons, but how these potent signaling pathways intersect with transcriptional programs established at earlier developmental stages remains poorly understood. Here we determine the consequences of genetic alternation of NT3 signaling on genome-wide transcription programs in proprioceptors, an important sensory neuron subpopulation involved in motor reflex behavior. We find that the expression of many proprioceptor-enriched genes is dramatically altered by genetic NT3 elimination, independent of survival-related activities. Combinatorial analysis of gene expression profiles with proprioceptors isolated from mice expressing surplus muscular NT3 identifies an anticorrelated gene set with transcriptional levels scaled in opposite directions. Voluntary running experiments in adult mice further demonstrate the maintenance of transcriptional adjustability of genes expressed by DRG neurons, pointing to life-long gene expression plasticity in sensory neurons.

Liikennesuunnittelu eri kaavoitusvaiheissa

OpenAIRE

Verkamo, Harri

2008-01-01

Tässä insinöörityössä kartoitettiin eri kaavavaiheiden liikennesuunnitelmia ja niiden sisältöä. Kartoituksen pohjalta laadittiin ohjeistus Helsingin kaupunkisuunnitteluviraston liikennesuunnitteluosastolle. Nykyään kaupunkisuunnitteluvirastossa ei ole ohjeita suunnittelijoiden avuksi eri kaavavaiheiden liikennesuunnitelmien laadintaan, mutta sellaiselle on selkeä tarve. Johdonmukaisella ohjeistuksella saadaan luotua yhtenäisempi käytäntö eri kaavavaiheiden liikennesuunnitelmien laatimiselle. ...

Probing dark matter streams with CoGeNT

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Natarajan, Aravind; Savage, Christopher; Freese, Katherine

2011-01-01

We examine the future sensitivity of CoGeNT to the presence of dark matter streams and find that consideration of streams in the data may lead to differences in the interpretation of the results. We show the allowed particle mass and cross section for different halo parameters, assuming spin-independent elastic scattering. As an example, we choose a stream with the same velocity profile as that of the Sagittarius stream (and in the Solar neighborhood) and find that, with an exposure of ∼10 kg yr, the CoGeNT results can be expected to exclude the standard-halo-model-only halo in favor of a standard halo model+stream halo at the 95% (99.7%) confidence level, provided the stream contributes 3% (5%) of the local dark matter density. The presence of a significant stream component may result in incorrect estimates of the particle mass and cross section unless the presence of the stream is taken into account. We conclude that the CoGeNT experiment is sensitive to streams and care should be taken to include the possibility of streams when analyzing experimental results.

ORF Alignment: NT_033778 [GENIUS II[Archive

Lifescience Database Archive (English)

Full Text Available de-binding protein [Periplaneta americana] ... pir||JQ0708 lipopolysaccharide-binding protein precurs... NT_033778 gi|24762680 >1qddA 8 141 113 253 1e-15 ... dbj|BAA00616.1| lipopolysacchari

Reliability of the Nidek NT-1000 non contact tonometer.

Science.gov (United States)

Van de Velde, T; Zeyen, T

1995-01-01

In this prospective study, we compared the intraocular pressure (IOP) readings of 100 patients measured with the Goldmann applanation tonometer and the Nidek NT-1000 pneumotonometer. The correlation coefficient between the Goldmann and Nidek readings was 0.86. On the average the pneumotonometer overestimated the intraocular pressure with 0.43 mm Hg. The Nidek NT-1000 non contact tonometer can be used for screening purposes provided an appropriately low IOP value is used to indicate the need for further assessment with the Goldman applanation tonometer.

ORF Alignment: NT_033779 [GENIUS II[Archive

Lifescience Database Archive (English)

Full Text Available n-like protein CL3 [Periplaneta americana] ... Length = 128 ... Query: 1 ... MVLDNQEDKLLTTTFLKSMGLSFTQSWHH... NT_033779 gi|21357645 >1qddA 26 143 127 254 1e-07 ... dbj|BAA82266.1| Cockroach lecti

Sincronización de Células de Tabaco (Nicotiana tabacum) NT-1

OpenAIRE

Ruiz, León F; Higareda, Ana E; Pardo, Marco A

2010-01-01

Se ha evaluado la capacidad sincronizante de afidicolina e hidroxiurea en cultivos de células de tabaco (Nicotiana tabacum) NT-1. Los cultivos sincronizados son poderosas herramientas en estudios moleculares y bioquímicos relacionados al ciclo celular y comúnmente se utilizan químicos para bloquear el ciclo celular. La línea celular de tabaco (Nicotiana tabacum) NT-1 proviene de la línea celular TBY-2, caracterizándose NT-1 por su menor velocidad de crecimiento y tamaño celular heterogéneo. L...

Higher level of NT-proCNP in cerebrospinal fluid of patients with meningitis.

Science.gov (United States)

Tomasiuk, Ryszard; Lipowski, Dariusz; Szlufik, Stanislaw; Peplinska, Krystyna; Mikaszewska-Sokolewicz, Malgorzata

2016-02-12

Aminoterminal pro-C type natriuretic peptide (NT-proCNP) as an active form of CNP, has been recently proven to be a potential marker of sepsis and to be linked to inflammatory diseases. So far, there are no studies describing the level of NT-proCNP in meningitis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic value of NT-proCNP in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in patients with meningitis and to compare it with the serum level of CRP and procalcitonin (PCT) in this group of patients. The results were compared to serum levels of CRP, PCT and CSF levels of cytosis, protein and lactate. NT-proCNP levels were statistically significant between the control group and the meningitis groups (p=0.02; R=0.3). We also noted a correlation between the level of NT-proCNP in the CSF of all of the study groups (controls and meningitis patients) and the CSF levels of cytosis (p0.05; R=0.11). These results suggest that NT-proCNP could be a potential marker of meningitis, but it cannot be used to distinguish between the types of meningitis. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Etätyökäytäntöjen kehittäminen

OpenAIRE

Haverinen, Liisa

2017-01-01

Opinnäytetyön tavoitteena oli luoda selvitys kohdeyritykselle siihen, kannattaako yrityksessä tehdä etätöitä laajemmin. Lähtötilanne oli, että etätöitä tehdään yrityksessä osittain. Etätöitä tekeviä työntekijöitä on kuitenkin vähän, ja etätöitä tehdään myös määrällisesti vähän. Työn alussa kerrotaan etätyöstä ilmiönä ja käsitteenä. Teoriaosuudessa selvitetään vastuita, hyötyjä ja haasteita liittyen etätöihin. Selvitetään myös etäjohtamisen ominaispiirteitä. Teoriaosuudessa käydään läpi e...

Regulation of Brown and White Adipocyte Transcriptome by the Transcriptional Coactivator NT-PGC-1α.

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Jihyun Kim

Full Text Available The β3-adrenergic receptor (AR signaling pathway is a major component of adaptive thermogenesis in brown and white adipose tissue during cold acclimation. The β3-AR signaling highly induces the expression of transcriptional coactivator PGC-1α and its splice variant N-terminal (NT-PGC-1α, which in turn activate the transcription program of adaptive thermogenesis by co-activating a number of transcription factors. We previously reported that NT-PGC-1α is able to increase mitochondrial number and activity in cultured brown adipocytes by promoting the expression of mitochondrial and thermogenic genes. In the present study, we performed genome-wide profiling of NT-PGC-1α-responsive genes in brown adipocytes to identify genes potentially regulated by NT-PGC-1α. Canonical pathway analysis revealed that a number of genes upregulated by NT-PGC-1α are highly enriched in mitochondrial pathways including fatty acid transport and β-oxidation, TCA cycle and electron transport system, thus reinforcing the crucial role of NT-PGC-1α in the enhancement of mitochondrial function. Moreover, canonical pathway analysis of NT-PGC-1α-responsive genes identified several metabolic pathways including glycolysis and fatty acid synthesis. In order to validate the identified genes in vivo, we utilized the FL-PGC-1α-/- mouse that is deficient in full-length PGC-1α (FL-PGC-1α but expresses a slightly shorter and functionally equivalent form of NT-PGC-1α (NT-PGC-1α254. The β3-AR-induced increase of NT-PGC-1α254 in FL-PGC-1α-/- brown and white adipose tissue was closely associated with elevated expression of genes involved in thermogenesis, mitochondrial oxidative metabolism, glycolysis and fatty acid synthesis. Increased adipose tissue thermogenesis by β3-AR activation resulted in attenuation of adipose tissue expansion in FL-PGC-1α-/- adipose tissue under the high-fat diet condition. Together, the data strengthen our previous findings that NT-PGC-1�

NT-proBNP on Cobas h 232 in point-of-care testing

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Gils, Charlotte; Ramanathan, R.; Breindahl, T.

2015-01-01

Background. NT-proBNP may be useful for ruling out heart failure in primary health care. In this study we examined the analytical quality of NT-proBNP in primary health care on the Cobas h 232 point-of-care instrument compared with measurements performed in a hospital laboratory. Materials...... and methods. Blood samples requested for NT-proBNP were collected in primary health care (n = 95) and in a hospital laboratory (n = 107). NT-proBNP was measured on-site on Cobas h 232 instruments both in primary health care centres and at the hospital laboratory and all samples were also analyzed...... with a comparison method at the hospital. Precision, trueness, accuracy, and lot-variation were determined at different concentration levels and evaluated according to acceptance criteria. Furthermore user-friendliness was assessed by questionnaires. Results. For Cobas h 232 repeatability CV was 8...

ORF Alignment: NT_033777 [GENIUS II[Archive

Lifescience Database Archive (English)

Full Text Available NT_033777 gi|24648160 >1mc2A 1 134 1 122 2e-29 ... gb|AAB20876.1| ammodytin L=myotoxi...c phospholipase A2 homologue [Vipera ... ammodytes=European viper, Peptide, 123 aa] ... Length

Life prediction and mechanical reliability of NT551 silicon nitride

Science.gov (United States)

Andrews, Mark Jay

The inert strength and fatigue performance of a diesel engine exhaust valve made from silicon nitride (Si3N4) ceramic were assessed. The Si3N4 characterized in this study was manufactured by Saint Gobain/Norton Industrial Ceramics and was designated as NT551. The evaluation was made utilizing a probabilistic life prediction algorithm that combined censored test specimen strength data with a Weibull distribution function and the stress field of the ceramic valve obtained from finite element analysis. The major assumptions of the life prediction algorithm are that the bulk ceramic material is isotropic and homogeneous and that the strength-limiting flaws are uniformly distributed. The results from mechanical testing indicated that NT551 was not a homogeneous ceramic and that its strength were functions of temperature, loading rate, and machining orientation. Fractographic analysis identified four different failure modes; 2 were identified as inhomogeneities that were located throughout the bulk of NT551 and were due to processing operations. The fractographic analysis concluded that the strength degradation of NT551 observed from the temperature and loading rate test parameters was due to a change of state that occurred in its secondary phase. Pristine and engine-tested valves made from NT551 were loaded to failure and the inert strengths were obtained. Fractographic analysis of the valves identified the same four failure mechanisms as found with the test specimens. The fatigue performance and the inert strength of the Si3N 4 valves were assessed from censored and uncensored test specimen strength data, respectively. The inert strength failure probability predictions were compared to the inert strength of the Si3N4 valves. The inert strength failure probability predictions were more conservative than the strength of the valves. The lack of correlation between predicted and actual valve strength was due to the nonuniform distribution of inhomogeneities present in NT

Introduction of an NT-proBNP assay to an acute admission unit--a 2-year audit.

LENUS (Irish Health Repository)

Murtagh, Gillian

2012-02-01

BACKGROUND: The differential diagnosis of dyspnoea is difficult due to the low predictive value of clinical and laboratory parameters. The elevated levels of NT-proBNP in congestive heart failure may improve diagnostic accuracy. We have evaluated the effect of the introduction of an NT-proBNP assay on hospital length of stay (LOS) and mortality. METHODS: There were 11,853 AMAU patient episodes in the 22 months study period (March 2005-Dec 2006). An NT-proBNP assay was requested in 657 (5.5%) of these. Comparison between categorical variables such as diagnosis, NT-proBNP testing, LOS, and in-hospital mortality was made using Chi-square tests. Literature review suggested that an NT-proBNP cut-off >or=5000 ng\\/L should predict acute in-patient mortality. Logistic regression analysis was used to examine the association between such an elevated NT-proBNP level and outcomes. RESULTS: Of the 396 patients with NT-proBNP <5000 ng\\/L, 8.1% died compared with 22.5% of the 178 patients dying with values >or=5000 ng\\/L (p<0.0001). An NT-proBNP >or=5000 ng\\/L was predictive of both LOS >or=9 days (odds ratios (OR) 1.54 (95% CI 1.06, 2.24: p=0.02) and LOS >or=14 days (OR=1.87 (95% CI 1.29, 2.71: p=0.0009). NT-proBNP requests increased over time, from 2.6% to 8.2% of all patients; the result fell in the diagnostic range for CHF in 60% of requests. CONCLUSION: The introduction of an NT-proBNP was reflected in an appropriate but rapidly increasing pattern of requests from clinicians. High NT-proBNP levels predicted in-hospital mortality and longer LOS in an acute medical population.

Differential effects of BDNF and neurotrophin 4 (NT4) on endocytic sorting of TrkB receptors.

Science.gov (United States)

Proenca, Catia C; Song, Minseok; Lee, Francis S

2016-08-01

Neurotrophins are a family of growth factors playing key roles in the survival, development, and function of neurons. The neurotrophins brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and NT4 both bind to and activate TrkB receptors, however, they mediate distinct neuronal functions. The molecular mechanism of how TrkB activation by BDNF and NT4 leads to diverse outcomes is unknown. Here, we report that BDNF and NT4 lead to differential endocytic sorting of TrkB receptors resulting in diverse biological functions in cultured cortical neurons. Fluorescent microscopy and surface biotinylation experiments showed that both neurotrophins stimulate internalization of TrkB with similar kinetics. Exposure to BDNF for 2-3 h reduced the surface pool of TrkB receptors to half, whereas a longer treatment (4-5 h) with NT4 was necessary to achieve a similar level of down-regulation. Although BDNF and NT4 induced TrkB phosphorylation with similar intensities, BDNF induced more rapid ubiquitination and degradation of TrkB than NT4. Interestingly, TrkB receptor ubiquitination by these ligands have substantially different pH sensitivities, resulting in varying degrees of receptor ubiquitination at lower pH levels. Consequently, NT4 was capable of maintaining longer sustained downstream signaling activation that correlated with reduced TrkB ubiquitination at endosomal pH. Thus, by leading to altered endocytic trafficking itineraries for TrkB receptors, BDNF and NT4 elicit differential TrkB signaling in terms of duration, intensity, and specificity, which may contribute to their functional differences in vivo. The neurotrophins, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and neurotrophin-4 (NT4), both bind to and activate TrkB receptors, however, they mediate distinct neuronal functions. Here, we propose that BDNF and NT4 lead to differential endocytic sorting of TrkB receptors resulting in diverse biological functions. BDNF induces more rapid ubiquitination and degradation of TrkB than NT4

Purine Restriction Induces Pronounced Translational Upregulation of the NT1 Adenosine/Pyrimidine Nucleoside Transporter in Leishmania major

OpenAIRE

Ortiz, Diana; Valdés, Raquel; Sanchez, Marco A.; Hayenga, Johanna; Elya, Carolyn; Detke, Siegfried; Landfear, Scott M.

2010-01-01

Leishmania and other parasitic protozoa are unable to synthesize purines de novo and are reliant upon purine nucleoside and nucleobase transporters to import preformed purines from their hosts. To study the roles of the four purine permeases NT1-NT4 in Leishmania major, null mutants in each transporter gene were prepared and the effect of each gene deletion on purine uptake was monitored. Deletion of the NT3 purine nucleobase transporter gene or both NT3 and the NT2 nucleoside transporter gen...

Neurotensin is an antagonist of the human neurotensin NT2 receptor expressed in Chinese hamster ovary cells.

Science.gov (United States)

Vita, N; Oury-Donat, F; Chalon, P; Guillemot, M; Kaghad, M; Bachy, A; Thurneyssen, O; Garcia, S; Poinot-Chazel, C; Casellas, P; Keane, P; Le Fur, G; Maffrand, J P; Soubrie, P; Caput, D; Ferrara, P

1998-11-06

The human levocabastine-sensitive neurotensin NT2 receptor was cloned from a cortex cDNA library and stably expressed in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells in order to study its binding and signalling characteristics. The receptor binds neurotensin as well as several other ligands already described for neurotensin NT1 receptor. It also binds levocabastine, a histamine H1 receptor antagonist that is not recognised by neurotensin NT1 receptor. Neurotensin binding to recombinant neurotensin NT2 receptor expressed in CHO cells does not elicit a biological response as determined by second messenger measurements. Levocabastine, and the peptides neuromedin N and xenin were also ineffective on neurotensin NT2 receptor activation. Experiments with the neurotensin NT1 receptor antagonists SR48692 and SR142948A, resulted in the unanticipated discovery that both molecules are potent agonists on neurotensin NT2 receptor. Both compounds, following binding to neurotensin NT2 receptor, enhance inositol phosphates (IP) formation with a subsequent [Ca2+]i mobilisation; induce arachidonic acid release; and stimulate mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activity. Interestingly, these activities are antagonised by neurotensin and levocabastine in a concentration-dependent manner. These activities suggest that the human neurotensin NT2 receptor may be of physiological importance and that a natural agonist for the receptor may exist.

Purine restriction induces pronounced translational upregulation of the NT1 adenosine/pyrimidine nucleoside transporter in Leishmania major.

Science.gov (United States)

Ortiz, Diana; Valdés, Raquel; Sanchez, Marco A; Hayenga, Johanna; Elya, Carolyn; Detke, Siegfried; Landfear, Scott M

2010-10-01

Leishmania and other parasitic protozoa are unable to synthesize purines de novo and are reliant upon purine nucleoside and nucleobase transporters to import preformed purines from their hosts. To study the roles of the four purine permeases NT1-NT4 in Leishmania major, null mutants in each transporter gene were prepared and the effect of each gene deletion on purine uptake was monitored. Deletion of the NT3 purine nucleobase transporter gene or both NT3 and the NT2 nucleoside transporter gene resulted in pronounced upregulation of adenosine and uridine uptake mediated by the NT1 permease and also induced up to a 200-fold enhancement in the level of the NT1 protein but not mRNA. A similar level of upregulation of NT1 was achieved in wild-type promastigotes that were transferred to medium deficient in purines. Pulse labelling and treatment of cells with the translation inhibitor cycloheximide revealed that control of NT1 expression occurs primarily at the level of translation and not protein turnover. These observations imply the existence of a translational control mechanism that enhances the ability of Leishmania parasites to import essential purines when they are present at limiting concentrations. © 2010 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

The Fifteenth International Conference on the Science and Application of Nanotubes (NT14)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

cronin, stephen

2015-01-06

The Fifteenth International Conference on the Science and Application of Nanotubes (NT14) was held at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles, California on June 2-6, 2014. NT14 upheld the NT tradition of presenting the latest results in the science and applications of nanotubes and related materials in plenary sessions. Emphasis was given to convivial poster sessions and student participation. Over 225 participants attended the conference, including students, post-docs, faculty, and members from industry. A total of 45 talks were presented, as well as 157 posters.

Níveis NT-Pro-BNP e resposta ao exercício em pacientes com fluxo lento coronariano NT-Pro-BNP levels and their response to exercise in patients with slow coronary flow

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Mustafa Yurtdaş

2012-12-01

Full Text Available FUNDAMENTO: Os peptídeos natriuréticos são liberados pelo coração em resposta ao estresse da parede. OBJETIVO: As concentrações de NT-Pro-BNP em pacientes com Fluxo Lento Coronariano (FLC foram avaliadas antes e depois do teste de exercício e comparados com os valores dos controles saudáveis. MÉTODOS: A população do estudo foi de 34 pacientes com FLC [22 homens (64,7%, com idade 51,0 ± 6,2 anos], e 34 indivíduos normais com artérias coronarianas normais [21 homens (61,8%, com idade 53,2 ± 6,6 anos]. As taxas de fluxo coronariano dos pacientes e controles foram determinadas pelo escore TIMI Trombólise no Infarto do Miocárdio (Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction. As amostras de sangue foram coletadas em repouso e após o teste ergométrico. RESULTADOS: As concentrações basais de NT-Pro-BNP nos pacientes com FLC foram superiores às dos indivíduos-controle (NT-Pro-BNP: 49,7 ± 14,2 pg/mL vs. 25,3 ± 4,6 pg/mL p BACKGROUND: Natriuretic peptides are released by the heart in response to wall stress. OBJECTIVE: The NT-Pro-BNP concentrations in slow coronary flow (SCF patients were assessed before and after the exercise test and compared with the values of healthy controls. METHODS: The study population was 34 patients with SCF [22 males (64.7%, aged 51.0±6.2 years], and 34 normal subjects with normal coronary arteries [21 males (61.8%, aged 53.2±6.6 years]. Coronary flow rates of all patients and control subjects were documented as Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI frame count. Blood samples were drawn at rest and after the exercise testing. RESULTS: The baseline NT-Pro-BNP concentrations of the SCF patients were higher than those of the control subjects (NT-Pro-BNP: 49.7±14.2 pg/mL vs. 25.3±4.6 pg/mL p<0.0001, respectively, and this difference increased after exercise test between the groups (NT-Pro-BNP: 69.5±18.6 pg/mL vs. 30.9±6.4 pg/mL p<0.0001. In SCF group after exercise, NT-Pro-BNP concentration in 15

Níveis NT-Pro-BNP e resposta ao exercício em pacientes com fluxo lento coronariano NT-Pro-BNP levels and their response to exercise in patients with slow coronary flow

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Mustafa Yurtdaş

2012-01-01

Full Text Available FUNDAMENTO: Os peptídeos natriuréticos são liberados pelo coração em resposta ao estresse da parede. OBJETIVO: As concentrações de NT-Pro-BNP em pacientes com Fluxo Lento Coronariano (FLC foram avaliadas antes e depois do teste de exercício e comparados com os valores dos controles saudáveis. MÉTODOS: A população do estudo foi de 34 pacientes com FLC [22 homens (64,7%, com idade 51,0 ± 6,2 anos], e 34 indivíduos normais com artérias coronarianas normais [21 homens (61,8%, com idade 53,2 ± 6,6 anos]. As taxas de fluxo coronariano dos pacientes e controles foram determinadas pelo escore TIMI Trombólise no Infarto do Miocárdio (Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction. As amostras de sangue foram coletadas em repouso e após o teste ergométrico. RESULTADOS: As concentrações basais de NT-Pro-BNP nos pacientes com FLC foram superiores às dos indivíduos-controle (NT-Pro-BNP: 49,7 ± 14,2 pg/mL vs. 25,3 ± 4,6 pg/mL p BACKGROUND: Natriuretic peptides are released by the heart in response to wall stress. OBJECTIVE: The NT-Pro-BNP concentrations in slow coronary flow (SCF patients were assessed before and after the exercise test and compared with the values of healthy controls. METHODS: The study population was 34 patients with SCF [22 males (64.7%, aged 51.0±6.2 years], and 34 normal subjects with normal coronary arteries [21 males (61.8%, aged 53.2±6.6 years]. Coronary flow rates of all patients and control subjects were documented as Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI frame count. Blood samples were drawn at rest and after the exercise testing. RESULTS: The baseline NT-Pro-BNP concentrations of the SCF patients were higher than those of the control subjects (NT-Pro-BNP: 49.7±14.2 pg/mL vs. 25.3±4.6 pg/mL p<0.0001, respectively, and this difference increased after exercise test between the groups (NT-Pro-BNP: 69.5±18.6 pg/mL vs. 30.9±6.4 pg/mL p<0.0001. In SCF group after exercise, NT-Pro-BNP concentration in 15

Ultra-Sensitive NT-proBNP Quantification for Early Detection of Risk Factors Leading to Heart Failure

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Keum-Soo Song

2017-09-01

Full Text Available Cardiovascular diseases such as acute myocardial infarction and heart failure accounted for the death of 17.5 million people (31% of all global deaths in 2015. Monitoring the level of circulating N-terminal proBNP (NT-proBNP is crucial for the detection of people at risk of heart failure. In this article, we describe a novel ultra-sensitive NT-proBNP test (us-NT-proBNP that allows the quantification of circulating NT-proBNP in 30 min at 25 °C in the linear detection range of 7.0–600 pg/mL. It is a first report on the application of a fluorescence bead labeled detection antibody, DNA-guided detection method, and glass fiber membrane platform for the quantification of NT-proBNP in clinical samples. Limit of blank, limit of detection, and limit of quantification were 2.0 pg/mL, 3.7 pg/mL, and 7 pg/mL, respectively. The coefficient of variation was found to be less than 10% in the entire detection range of 7–600 pg/mL. The test demonstrated specificity for NT-proBNP without interferences from bilirubin, intra-lipid, biotin, and hemoglobin. The serial dilution test for plasma samples containing various NT-proBNP levels showed the linear decrement in concentration with the regression coefficient of 0.980–0.998. These results indicate that us-NT-proBNP test does not suffer from the interference of the plasma components for the measurement of NT-proBNP in clinical samples.

NT-pro-BNP is an independent predictor of mortality in patients with end-stage renal disease.

Science.gov (United States)

Svensson, M; Gorst-Rasmussen, A; Schmidt, E B; Jorgensen, K A; Christensen, J H

2009-04-01

Patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) have an increased mortality from cardiovascular disease (CVD). N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-pro-BNP) is an independent predictor of mortality in patients with ischemic heart disease and congestive heart failure. Previous data have shown markedly elevated levels of NT-pro-BNP in patients with ESRD, while the prognostic value of elevated levels of NT-pro-BNP in patients with ESRD is largely unknown. The aim of the present study was to examine if the level of NT-pro-BNP predicts mortality in patients with ERSD and CVD. We prospectively followed 206 patients with ESRD and documented CVD. Levels of NT-pro-BNP were measured at baseline, and patients were followed for 2 years or until they reached the predefined endpoint of all-cause mortality. During follow-up, the total mortality was 44% (90/206). Patients who died were followed for a median of 314 days (interquartile range 179 - 530). Using Cox regression analysis, age, female sex, systolic blood pressure, dialysis efficiency and plasma levels of NT-pro-BNP were independent prognostic risk factors of mortality. In receiver operating characteristic curve analysis a cut off value for NT-pro-BNP was determined. Patients with values of NT-pro-BNP above 12.200 pg/ml had a 3 times higher risk of death than patients below the cut-off value (HR 3.05 95% CI 1.96 - 4.77, p pro-BNP, NT-pro-BNP is still an independent predictor of mortality and might add prognostic information in patients with ESRD and documented CVD.

The use of lead isotope analysis to identify potential sources of lead toxicosis in a juvenile bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) with ventricular foreign bodies

Science.gov (United States)

Franzen-Klein, Dana; McRuer, David; Slabe, Vincent; Katzner, Todd

2018-01-01

A male juvenile bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) was admitted to the Wildlife Center of Virginia with a left humeral fracture a large quantity of anthropogenic debris in the ventriculus, a blood lead level of 0.616 ppm, and clinical signs consistent with chronic lead toxicosis. Because of the poor prognosis for recovery and release, the eagle was euthanatized. Lead isotope analysis was performed to identify potential anthropogenic sources of lead in this bird. The lead isotope ratios in the eagle's femur (0.8773), liver (0.8761), and kidneys (0.8686) were most closely related to lead paint (0.8925), leaded gasoline (0.8450), and zinc smelting (0.8240). The lead isotope ratios were dissimilar to lead ammunition (0.8179) and the anthropogenic debris in the ventriculus. This case report documents foreign body ingestion in a free-ranging bald eagle and demonstrates the clinical utility of lead isotope analysis to potentially identify or exclude anthropogenic sources of lead poisoning in wildlife patients.

Involvement of the putative Ca²⁺-permeable mechanosensitive channels, NtMCA1 and NtMCA2, in Ca²⁺ uptake, Ca²⁺-dependent cell proliferation and mechanical stress-induced gene expression in tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) BY-2 cells.

Science.gov (United States)

Kurusu, Takamitsu; Yamanaka, Takuya; Nakano, Masataka; Takiguchi, Akiko; Ogasawara, Yoko; Hayashi, Teruyuki; Iida, Kazuko; Hanamata, Shigeru; Shinozaki, Kazuo; Iida, Hidetoshi; Kuchitsu, Kazuyuki

2012-07-01

To gain insight into the cellular functions of the mid1-complementing activity (MCA) family proteins, encoding putative Ca²⁺-permeable mechanosensitive channels, we isolated two MCA homologs of tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) BY-2 cells, named NtMCA1 and NtMCA2. NtMCA1 and NtMCA2 partially complemented the lethality and Ca²⁺ uptake defects of yeast mutants lacking mechanosensitive Ca²⁺ channel components. Furthermore, in yeast cells overexpressing NtMCA1 and NtMCA2, the hypo-osmotic shock-induced Ca²⁺ influx was enhanced. Overexpression of NtMCA1 or NtMCA2 in BY-2 cells enhanced Ca²⁺ uptake, and significantly alleviated growth inhibition under Ca²⁺ limitation. NtMCA1-overexpressing BY-2 cells showed higher sensitivity to hypo-osmotic shock than control cells, and induced the expression of the touch-inducible gene, NtERF4. We found that both NtMCA1-GFP and NtMCA2-GFP were localized at the plasma membrane and its interface with the cell wall, Hechtian strands, and at the cell plate and perinuclear vesicles of dividing cells. NtMCA2 transcript levels fluctuated during the cell cycle and were highest at the G1 phase. These results suggest that NtMCA1 and NtMCA2 play roles in Ca²⁺-dependent cell proliferation and mechanical stress-induced gene expression in BY-2 cells, by regulating the Ca²⁺ influx through the plasma membrane.

Prognostic threshold levels of NT-proBNP testing in primary care

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Rosenberg, J.; Schou, M.; Gustafsson, F.

2008-01-01

AIMS: Chronic heart failure (HF) is a common condition with a poor prognosis. As delayed diagnosis and treatment of HF patients in primary care can be detrimental, risk-stratified waiting lists for echocardiography might optimize resource utilization. We investigated whether a prognostic threshold...... level of the cardiac peptide, NT-proBNP, could be identified. METHODS AND RESULTS: From 2003-2005, 5875 primary care patients with suspected HF (median age 73 years) had NT-proBNP analysed in the Copenhagen area. Eighteen percent died and 20% had a cardiovascular (CV) hospitalization (median follow....../mL) was associated with an 80% (95% CI: 20-190, P = 0.01) increased mortality risk after adjustment for age, sex, previous hospitalization, CV diseases, and chronic diseases. CONCLUSION: We identified prognostic threshold levels for mortality and CV hospitalization for NT-proBNP in primary care patients suspected...

Kunnan strateginen johtaminen - tutkimus Seinänaapurikuntien strategiaprosessien ominaispiirteistä ja kunnanjohtajista strategisina johtajina

OpenAIRE

Rannisto, Pasi-Heikki

2005-01-01

Tutkimusmenetelmät ja tutkimustehtävä Tutkimuksen tehtävänä on selvittää kunnan strategiaprosessi ja strateginen johtaminen kunnanjohtajan kannalta sekä kunnanjohtajan rooli strategian käytäntöön viemisessä. Tutkimuksen kohdekuntina ovat Etelä-Pohjanmaalle sijoittuvan Seinänaapurit -seutukunnan seitsemän kuntaa. Tutkimuksessa tarkastellaan ja arvioidaan kohdekuntien strategiaprosesseja ja kunnanjohtajien toimintaa strategioiden maastouttajina. Lähdeaineistona ovat kansainvälinen strat...

Pharmacogenetic characterization of naturally occurring germline NT5C1A variants to chemotherapeutic nucleoside analogs

Science.gov (United States)

Saliba, Jason; Zabriskie, Ryan; Ghosh, Rajarshi; Powell, Bradford C; Hicks, Stephanie; Kimmel, Marek; Meng, Qingchang; Ritter, Deborah I; Wheeler, David A; Gibbs, Richard A; Tsai, Francis T F; Plon, Sharon E

2016-01-01

Background Mutations or alteration in expression of the 5’ nucleotidase gene family can confer altered responses to treatment with nucleoside analogs. While investigating leukemia susceptibility genes, we discovered a very rare p.L254P NT5C1A missense variant in the substrate recognition motif. Given the paucity of cellular drug response data from NT5C1A germline variation, we characterized p.L254P and eight rare variants of NT5C1A from genomic databases. Methods Through lentiviral infection, we created HEK293 cell lines that stably overexpress wildtype NT5C1A, p.L254P, or eight NT5C1A variants reported in the NHLBI Exome Variant server (one truncating and seven missense). IC50 values were determined by cytotoxicity assays after exposure to chemotherapeutic nucleoside analogs (Cladribine, Gemcitabine, 5-Fluorouracil). In addition, we used structure-based homology modeling to generate a 3D model for the C-terminal region of NT5C1A. Results The p.R180X (truncating), p.A214T, and p.L254P missense changes were the only variants that significantly impaired protein function across all nucleotide analogs tested (>5-fold difference versus WT; p<.05). Several of the remaining variants individually displayed differential effects (both more and less resistant) across the analogs tested. The homology model provided a structural framework to understand the impact of NT5C1A mutants on catalysis and drug processing. The model predicted active site residues within NT5C1A motif III and we experimentally confirmed that p.K314 (not p.K320) is required for NT5C1A activity. Conclusion We characterized germline variation and predicted protein structures of NT5C1A. Individual missense changes showed substantial variation in response to the different nucleoside analogs tested, which may impact patients’ responses to treatment. PMID:26906009

Tobacco arabinogalactan protein NtEPc can promote banana (Musa AAA) somatic embryogenesis.

Science.gov (United States)

Shu, H; Xu, L; Li, Z; Li, J; Jin, Z; Chang, S

2014-12-01

Banana is an important tropical fruit worldwide. Parthenocarpy and female sterility made it impossible to improve banana varieties through common hybridization. Genetic transformation for banana improvement is imperative. But the low rate that banana embryogenic callus was induced made the transformation cannot be performed in many laboratories. Finding ways to promote banana somatic embryogenesis is critical for banana genetic transformation. After tobacco arabinogalactan protein gene NtEPc was transformed into Escherichia coli (DE3), the recombinant protein was purified and filter-sterilized. A series of the sterilized protein was added into tissue culture medium. It was found that the number of banana immature male flowers developing embryogenic calli increased significantly in the presence of NtEPc protein compared with the effect of the control medium. Among the treatments, explants cultured on medium containing 10 mg/l of NtEPc protein had the highest chance to develop embryogenic calli. The percentage of lines that developed embryogenic calli on this medium was about 12.5 %. These demonstrated that NtEPc protein can be used to promote banana embryogenesis. This is the first paper that reported that foreign arabinogalactan protein (AGP) could be used to improve banana somatic embryogenesis.

Serum NT-proCNP levels increased after initiation of GH treatment in patients with achondroplasia/hypochondroplasia.

Science.gov (United States)

Kubota, Takuo; Wang, Wei; Miura, Kohji; Nakayama, Hirofumi; Yamamoto, Keiko; Fujiwara, Makoto; Ohata, Yasuhisa; Tachibana, Makiko; Kitaoka, Taichi; Takakuwa, Satoshi; Miyoshi, Yoko; Namba, Noriyuki; Ozono, Keiichi

2016-06-01

Serum amino-terminal propeptide of C-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proCNP) levels have been proposed as a biomarker of linear growth in healthy children. The usefulness of NT-proCNP in patients with achondroplasia (ACH)/hypochondroplasia (HCH) remains to be elucidated. The objective was to study whether serum NT-proCNP level is a good biomarker for growth in ACH/HCH and other patients of short stature. This was a longitudinal cohort study. Sixteen children with ACH (aged 0·4-4·3 years), six children with HCH (2·7-6·3 years), 23 children with idiopathic short stature (ISS) (2·2-9·0 years), eight short children with GH deficiency (GHD) (2·9-6·8 years) and five short children born small for gestational age (SGA) (2·0-6·6 years). Patients with ACH/HCH received GH treatment for 1 year. Serum NT-proCNP levels and height were measured. NT-proCNP levels positively correlated with height velocity in these short children (P < 0·05, r = 0·27). NT-proCNP levels inversely correlated with age in children with ISS alone (P < 0·01, r = -0·55). Serum NT-proCNP levels in patients with ACH/HCH were increased 3 months following the initiation of GH treatment (P < 0·05). Height SDS gain during GH treatment for 1 year was positively correlated with the changes in NT-proCNP levels after the initiation of GH (P < 0·01, r = 0·72). Serum NT-proCNP levels may be a good biomarker to indicate the effect of GH treatment on growth in patients with ACH/HCH at least in the first year and height velocity in short stature patients. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

NT-proBNP and diastolic left ventricular function in patients with Marfan syndrome

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Petra Gehle

2016-09-01

Conclusions: MFS patients presenting with normal ejection fraction show disturbed diastolic function and higher NT-proBNP levels, which is partly explained by aortic Z-score. Assessment of diastolic function and NT-proBNP levels may therefore detect early abnormalities and guide surveillance and prevention management of patients with MFS.

NT-proBNP (N-Terminal pro-B-Type Natriuretic Peptide)-Guided Therapy in Acute Decompensated Heart Failure: PRIMA II Randomized Controlled Trial (Can NT-ProBNP-Guided Therapy During Hospital Admission for Acute Decompensated Heart Failure Reduce Mortality and Readmissions?).

Science.gov (United States)

Stienen, Susan; Salah, Khibar; Moons, Arno H; Bakx, Adrianus L; van Pol, Petra; Kortz, R A Mikael; Ferreira, João Pedro; Marques, Irene; Schroeder-Tanka, Jutta M; Keijer, Jan T; Bayés-Genis, Antoni; Tijssen, Jan G P; Pinto, Yigal M; Kok, Wouter E

2018-04-17

The concept of natriuretic peptide guidance has been extensively studied in patients with chronic heart failure (HF), with only limited success. The effect of NT-proBNP (N-terminal probrain natriuretic peptide)-guided therapy in patients with acute decompensated HF using a relative NT-proBNP target has not been investigated. This study aimed to assess whether NT-proBNP-guided therapy of patients with acute decompensated HF using a relative NT-proBNP target would lead to improved outcomes compared with conventional therapy. We conducted a prospective randomized controlled trial to study the impact of in-hospital guidance for acute decompensated HF treatment by a predefined NT-proBNP target (>30% reduction from admission to discharge) versus conventional treatment. Patients with acute decompensated HF with NT-proBNP levels >1700 ng/L were eligible. After achieving clinical stability, 405 patients were randomized to either NT-proBNP-guided or conventional treatment (1:1). The primary end point was dual: a composite of all-cause mortality and HF readmissions in 180 days and the number of days alive out of the hospital in 180 days. Secondary end points were all-cause mortality within 180 days, HF readmissions within 180 days, and a composite of all-cause mortality and HF readmissions within 90 days. Significantly more patients in the NT-proBNP-guided therapy group were discharged with an NT-proBNP reduction of >30% (80% versus 64%, P =0.001). Nonetheless, NT-proBNP-guided therapy did not significantly improve the combined event rate for all-cause mortality and HF readmissions (hazard ratio, 0.96; 95% confidence interval, 0.72-1.37; P =0.99) or the median number of days alive outside of the hospital (178 versus 179 days for NT-proBNP versus conventional patients, P =0.39). Guided therapy also did not significantly improve any of the secondary end points. The PRIMA II trial (Can NT-ProBNP-Guided Therapy During Hospital Admission for Acute Decompensated Heart Failure

Strength and fatigue of NT551 silicon nitride and NT551 diesel exhaust valves

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Andrews, M.J.; Werezczak, A.A.; Kirkland, T.P.; Breder, K.

2000-02-01

The content of this report is excerpted from Mark Andrew's Ph.D. Thesis (Andrews, 1999), which was funded by a DOE/OTT High Temperature Materials Laboratory Graduate Fellowship. It involves the characterization of NT551 and valves fabricated with it. The motivations behind using silicon nitride (Si{sub 3}N{sub 4}) as an exhaust valve for a diesel engine are presented in this section. There are several economic factors that have encouraged the design and implementation of ceramic components for internal combustion (IC) engines. The reasons for selecting the diesel engine valve for this are also presented.

NT-proBNP in cardiac surgery: a new tool for the management of our patients?

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Reyes, Guillermo; Forés, Gloria; Rodríguez-Abella, R Hugo; Cuerpo, Gregorio; Vallejo, José Luis; Romero, Carlos; Pinto, Angel

2005-06-01

Our aim was to determine NT-proBNP levels in patients undergoing cardiac surgery and if those levels are related to any of the baseline clinical characteristics of patients before surgery or any of the outcomes or events after surgery. Prospective, analytic study including 83 consecutive patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Preoperatory and postoperatory data were collected. NT-proBNP levels were measured before surgery, the day of surgery, twice the following day and every 24 h until a total of nine determinations. Venous blood was obtained by direct venipuncture and collected into serum separator tubes. Samples were centrifuged within 20 min from sampling and stored for a maximum of 12 h at 2-8 degrees C before the separation of serum. Serum was stored frozen at -40 degrees C and thawed only once at the time of analysis. Mean age was 65+/-11.8 years. An Euroscore 6 was found in 30% of patients. NYHA classification was as follows: I:27.7%; II:47%; III:25.3%. Preoperative atrial fibrilation occurred in 20.5% of patients. After surgery 18.1% of patients required inotropes. Only one death was recorded. A great variability was found in preoperative NT-proBNP levels; 759.9 (S.D.:1371.1); CI 95%: 464.9 to 1054.9 pg/ml, with a wide range (6.39-8854). Median was 366.5 pg/ml. Preoperative NT-proBNP levels were unrelated to the type of surgery (CABG vs. others), sex, age and any of the cardiovascular risk factors. NT-proBNP levels were higher in high risk patients (Euroscore 6); (P=0.021), worse NYHA class (P=0.020) and patients with preoperative atrial fibrilation (m 1767 (2205) vs m 621 (1017); P=0.001). After surgery NT-proBNP levels started increasing the following day until the fourth day (P=0.03), decreasing afterwards (P=0.019). These levels were significantly higher in patients requiring inotropes after surgery (P<0.001). We did not find any relationship between NT-proBNP levels and complications rate (P=0.59). Preoperative NT-proBNP levels depend on preoperative

ORF Alignment: NT_033777 [GENIUS II[Archive

Lifescience Database Archive (English)

Full Text Available NT_033777 gi|28571958 >1bor0 1 53 282 342 4e-04 ... ref|NP_083045.3| synoviolin 1 [Mu...s musculus] gb|AAH42199.1| Synoviolin 1 [Mus ... musculus] gb|AAH80722.1| Synoviolin 1 [Mus musculus]... ... gb|AAH57917.1| Synoviolin 1 [Mus musculus] ... Length = 61 ... Query: 280 EELRQSDNICIICREDMV

INFLUENCE OF SNOWFALL ON BLOOD LEAD LEVELS OF FREE-FLYING BALD EAGLES (HALIAEETUS LEUCOCEPHALUS) IN THE UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER VALLEY.

Science.gov (United States)

Lindblom, Ronald A; Reichart, Letitia M; Mandernack, Brett A; Solensky, Matthew; Schoenebeck, Casey W; Redig, Patrick T

2017-10-01

Lead poisoning of scavenging raptors occurs primarily via consumption of game animal carcasses containing lead, which peaks during fall firearm hunting seasons. We hypothesized that snowfall would mitigate exposure by concealing carcasses. We categorized blood lead level (BLL) for a subsample of Bald Eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) from the Upper Mississippi River Valley and described BLL with respect to age, sex, and snowfall. We captured Bald Eagles overwintering in the Upper Mississippi River Valley (n=55) between December 1999 and January 2002. Individual BLL ranged from nondetectable to 335 μg/dL, with 73% of the samples testing positive for acute exposure to lead. Eagle BLL did not significantly differ between age or sex, but levels were higher immediately following the hunting season, and they were lower when the previous month's snowfall was greater than 11 cm. This study suggests a window of time between the white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) hunting season and the onset of snow when the population experienced peak exposure to lead. Combining these findings with existing research, we offer a narrative of the annual lead exposure cycle of Upper Mississippi River Valley Bald Eagles. These temporal associations are necessary considerations for accurate collection and interpretation of BLL.

Agonist properties of a stable hexapeptide analog of neurotensin, N alpha MeArg-Lys-Pro-Trp-tLeu-Leu (NT1).

Science.gov (United States)

Akunne, H C; Demattos, S B; Whetzel, S Z; Wustrow, D J; Davis, D M; Wise, L D; Cody, W L; Pugsley, T A; Heffner, T G

1995-04-18

The major signal transduction pathway for neurotensin (NT) receptors is the G-protein-dependent stimulation of phospholipase C, leading to the mobilization of intracellular free Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) and the stimulation of cyclic GMP. We investigated the functional actions of an analog of NT(8-13), N alpha MeArg-Lys-Pro-Trp-tLeu-Leu (NT1), and other NT related analogs by quantitative measurement of the cytosolic free Ca2+ concentration in HT-29 (human colonic adenocarcinoma) cells using the Ca(2+)-sensitive dye fura-2/AM and by effects on cyclic GMP levels in rat cerebellar slices. The NT receptor binding affinities for these analogs to HT-29 cell membranes and newborn (10-day-old) mouse brain membranes were also investigated. Data obtained from HT-29 cell and mouse brain membrane preparations showed saturable single high-affinity sites and binding densities (Bmax) of 130.2 and 87.5 fmol/mg protein, respectively. The respective KD values were 0.47 and 0.39 nM, and the Hill coefficients were 0.99 and 0.92. The low-affinity levocabastine-sensitive site was not present (K1 > 10,000) in either membrane preparation. Although the correlation of binding between HT-29 cell membranes and mouse brain membranes was quite significant (r = 0.92), some of the reference agents had lower binding affinities in the HT-29 cell membranes. The metabolically stable compound NT1 plus other NT analogs and related peptides [NT, NT(8-13), xenopsin, neuromedin N, NT(9-13), kinetensin and (D-Trp11)-NT] increased intracellular Ca2+ levels in HT-29 cells, indicating NT receptor agonist properties. The effect of NT1 in mobilizing [Ca2+]i blocked by SR 48692, a non-peptide NT antagonist. Receptor binding affinities of NT analogs to HT-29 cell membranes were positively correlated with potencies for mobilizing intracellular calcium in the same cells. In addition, NT1 increased cyclic GMP levels in rat cerebellar slices, confirming the latter findings of its NT agonist action. These results substantiate

Overexpression of NtPR-Q Up-Regulates Multiple Defense-Related Genes in Nicotiana tabacum and Enhances Plant Resistance to Ralstonia solanacearum

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Yuanman Tang

2017-11-01

Full Text Available Various classes of plant pathogenesis-related proteins have been identified in the past several decades. PR-Q, a member of the PR3 family encoding chitinases, has played an important role in regulating plant resistance and preventing pathogen infection. In this paper, we functionally characterized NtPR-Q in tobacco plants and found that the overexpression of NtPR-Q in tobacco Yunyan87 resulted in higher resistance to Ralstonia solanacearum inoculation. Surprisingly, overexpression of NtPR-Q led to the activation of many defense-related genes, such as salicylic acid (SA-responsive genes NtPR1a/c, NtPR2 and NtCHN50, JA-responsive gene NtPR1b and ET production-associated genes NtACC Oxidase and NtEFE26. Consistent with the role of NtPR-Q in multiple stress responses, NtPR-Q transcripts were induced by the exogenous hormones SA, ethylene and methyl jasmonate, which could enhance the resistance of tobacco to R. solanacearum. Collectively, our results suggested that NtPR-Q overexpression led to the up-regulation of defense-related genes and enhanced plant resistance to R. solanacearum infection.

Tobacco Transcription Factor NtWRKY12 Interacts With TGA2.2 in vitro and in vivo

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Marcel evan Verk

2011-07-01

Full Text Available The promoter of the salicylic acid-inducible PR-1a gene of Nicotiana tabacum contains binding sites for transcription factor NtWRKY12 (WK-box at position -564 and TGA factors (as-1-like element at position -592. Transactivation experiments in Arabidopsis protoplasts derived from wild type, npr1-1, tga256 and tga2356 mutant plants revealed that NtWRKY12 alone was able to induce a PR-1a::β-glucuronidase (GUS reporter gene to high levels, independent of co-expressed tobacco NtNPR1, TGA2.1, TGA2.2 or endogenous Arabidopsis NPR1, TGA2/3/5/6. By in vitro pull-down assays with GST and Strep fusion proteins and by Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer assays with protein-CFP and protein-YFP fusions in transfected protoplasts, it was shown that NtWRKY12 and TGA2.2 could interact in vitro and in vivo. Interaction of NtWRKY12 with TGA1a or TGA2.1 was not detectable by these techniques. A possible mechanism for the role of NtWRKY12 and TGA2.2 in PR-1a gene expression is discussed.

Dynamic modeling of the manipulator RD5NT

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Eduardo Monteiro Aguiar

2015-05-01

Full Text Available This article presents the development of a dynamicmathematical model for the DIDACTA ITALIARD5NT manipulator. The model is intendedto be used in the development of strategies ofposition-trajectory control. The choice modelingtype aims at identifying the physical parametersof the manipulator.

Internet-kulttuuri nykytaiteessa

OpenAIRE

Höyssä, Timo

2016-01-01

Internet-kulttuuri nykytaiteessa Tutkimuksessa tarkastellaan internet-taiteen historiaa ja nykyisiä esityskäytäntöjä sekä sitä miten globaali internet-kulttuuri on muokannut nykytaidetta sekä galleriassa että webissä. Tutkimuksessa kysytään miten internetin kehitys on vaikuttanut internet-taiteeseen sekä post-internet-taiteen syntyyn? Mikä on internetin paikka nykytaiteessa sekä populaarikulttuurissa? Internet culture in contemporary art A study on the history of Internet art and it’...

Mekaniikkasuunittelijoiden metakognitiivisen tietoisuuden kehittäminen

OpenAIRE

Kyttänen, Pasi-Pekka

2007-01-01

Tutkimuksen tarkoituksena oli tarkastella mekaniikkasuunnittelijoiden metakognitiivista tietoisuutta ja kehittää sitä tukevia käytäntöjä ja välineitä. Tarve tutkimuksen tekemiseen tuli havaituista ongelmista, jotka liittyivät suunnittelijoiden osaamiseen, oppimiseen, itsensä kehittämiseen sekä suunnittelutehtävän hallintaan. Mekaniikkasuunnittelijan työ on itsenäistä ja vastuullista, suuren ja kompleksisen tiedon kognitiivista käsittelyä. Suunnittelumaailma on hektinen ja jo...

The influence of BANXIAXIEXIN decoction and its analogous preparations on neurotensin (NT) in rat models with reflux esophagitis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Liu Xiaoni; Gao Yanqing; Si Yinchu; Niu Xin

2003-01-01

Objective: To investigate the mechanism of BANXIAXIEXIN TANG Decoction and its analogous preparations in treatment of reflux esophagitis. Methods: 60 rat models with duodenogastroesophageal reflux were divided into 4 equal numbered groups; control group, BANXIAXIEXIN TANG group, SHENGJIANGXIEXIN TANG group, GANCAOXIEXIN TANG group. The contents of NT in hypothalamus, ileum and plasma were measured by radioimmunoassay in all these models and the relationship between NT concentration and degree of esophageal mucosa injury in the control group was analysed. Results: BANXIAXIEXIN Decoction and its analogous preparations could reduce the degree of the esophageal mucosa injury significantly (p<0.01). Compared with the control group: the hypothalamus content of NT in SHENGJIANGXIEXIN TANG group was significantly lowered (p<0.05), the ileum content of NT in BANXIAXIEXIN TANG group was significantly lowered (p<0.01), the plasma contents of NT in both groups were significantly lowered (p<0.05) as well. There was positive correlation (r=0.442, p<0.01) between content of NT in ileum and degree of the esophageal mucosa injury in control group. Conclusion: NT may play an important role in the development reflux esophagitis. Regulating the synthesis and secretion of NT may be one of the mechanisms of BANXIAXIEXIN Decoction and its analogus preparations in treatment of reflux esophagitis

Evaluation of NT-proBNP concentrations during exercise in asymptomatic patients with severe high-gradient aortic stenosis.

Science.gov (United States)

Dobrowolski, Piotr; Lech, Agnieszka; Klisiewicz, Anna; Hoffman, Piotr

2016-08-11

INTRODUCTION The effect of asymptomatic severe aortic stenosis (ASAS) on N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) levels ar rest and during exercise, as well as their relevance for clinical practice remain controversial.  OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis of whether the evaluation of NT-proBNP concentrations during exercise provides additional information about the severity of aortic stenosis and left ventricular remodeling in patients with ASAS. PATIENTS AND METHODS A total of 50 patients with ASAS (mean age, 38.4 ±18.1 years) and 21 healthy subjects (mean age, 43.4 ±10.6 years) were enrolled. Rest and exercise echocardiography was performed to evaluate maximum velocity (Vmax), mean aortic gradient (AG), and aortic valve area (AVA). The left ventricular mass index (LVMI) was calculated. NT-proBNP concentrations at rest and during exercise were assessed, and the difference between the 2 values was calculated (ΔNT-proBNP). RESULTS NT-proBNP and ΔNT-proBNP levels at rest and during exercise were significantly higher in the ASAS group compared with the control group. In the ASAS group, NT-proBNP levels at rest significantly correlated with LVMI (r = 0.432; P <0.0001), AVA (r = -0.408; P <0.0001), Vmax (r = 0.375; P = 0.002), and mean AG (r = 0.257; P = 0.03). NT-proBNP levels during exercise significantly correlated with LVMI (r = 0.432; P <0.0001), mean AG (r = 0.401; P = 0.001), and AVA (r = -0.375; P = 0.001). In the multivariate logistic regression model, the factors independently associated with NT-proBNP both at rest and during exercise were age, AVA, and LVMI. CONCLUSIONS NT-proBNP levels at rest provide valuable information for identifying patients with more advanced left ventricular hypertrophy secondary to severe aortic stenosis. NT-proBNP levels during exercise do not provide new information on the severity of AS.

Expression of neurotensin and NT1 receptor in human breast cancer: a potential role in tumor progression.

Science.gov (United States)

Souazé, Frédérique; Dupouy, Sandra; Viardot-Foucault, Véronique; Bruyneel, Erik; Attoub, Samir; Gespach, Christian; Gompel, Anne; Forgez, Patricia

2006-06-15

Emerging evidence supports neurotensin as a trophic and antiapoptotic factor, mediating its control via the high-affinity neurotensin receptor (NT1 receptor) in several human solid tumors. In a series of 51 patients with invasive ductal breast cancers, 34% of all tumors were positive for neurotensin and 91% positive for NT1 receptor. We found a coexpression of neurotensin and NT1 receptor in a large proportion (30%) of ductal breast tumors, suggesting a contribution of the neurotensinergic signaling cascade within breast cancer progression. Functionally expressed NT1 receptor, in the highly malignant MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cell line, coordinated a series of transforming functions, including cellular migration, invasion, induction of the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 transcripts, and MMP-9 gelatinase activity. Disruption of NT1 receptor signaling by silencing RNA or use of a specific NT1 receptor antagonist, SR48692, caused the reversion of these transforming functions and tumor growth of MDA-MB-231 cells xenografted in nude mice. Our findings support the contribution of neurotensin in human breast cancer progression and point out the utility to develop therapeutic molecules targeting neurotensin or NT1 receptor signaling cascade. These strategies would increase the range of therapeutic approaches and be beneficial for specific patients.

Spore Coat Architecture of Clostridium novyi-NT spores

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Plomp, M; McCafferey, J; Cheong, I; Huang, X; Bettegowda, C; Kinzler, K; Zhou, S; Vogelstein, B; Malkin, A

2007-05-07

Spores of the anaerobic bacterium Clostridium novyi-NT are able to germinate in and destroy hypoxic regions of tumors in experimental animals. Future progress in this area will benefit from a better understanding of the germination and outgrowth processes that are essential for the tumorilytic properties of these spores. Towards this end, we have used both transmission electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy to determine the structure of dormant as well as germinating spores. We found that the spores are surrounded by an amorphous layer intertwined with honeycomb parasporal layers. Moreover, the spore coat layers had apparently self-assembled and this assembly was likely to be governed by crystal growth principles. During germination and outgrowth, the honeycomb layers as well as the underlying spore coat and undercoat layers sequentially dissolved until the vegetative cell was released. In addition to their implications for understanding the biology of C. novyi-NT, these studies document the presence of proteinaceous growth spirals in a biological organism.

MRI-Monitored Intra-Tumoral Injection of Iron-Oxide Labeled Clostridium novyi-NT Anaerobes in Pancreatic Carcinoma Mouse Model

Science.gov (United States)

Zheng, Linfeng; Zhang, Zhuoli; Khazaie, Khashayarsha; Saha, Saurabh; Lewandowski, Robert J.; Zhang, Guixiang; Larson, Andrew C.

2014-01-01

Objectives To validate the feasibility of labeling Clostridium novyi-NT (C.novyi-NT) anaerobes with iron-oxide nanoparticles for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and demonstrate the potential to use MRI to visualize intra-tumoral delivery of these iron-oxide labeled C.novyi-NT during percutaneous injection procedures. Materials and Methods All studies were approved by IACUC. C.novyi-NT were labeled with hybrid iron-oxide Texas red nanoparticles. Growth of labeled and control samples were evaluated with optical density. Labeling was confirmed with confocal fluorescence and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). MRI were performed using a 7 Tesla scanner with T2*-weighted (T2*W) sequence. Contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) measurements were performed for phantoms and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) measurements performed in C57BL/6 mice (n = 12) with Panc02 xenografts before and after percutaneous injection of iron-oxide labeled C.novyi-NT. MRI was repeated 3 and 7 days post-injection. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE), Prussian blue and Gram staining of tumor specimens were performed for confirmation of intra-tumoral delivery. Results Iron-oxide labeling had no influence upon C.novyi-NT growth. The signal intensity (SI) within T2*W images was significantly decreased for iron-oxide labeled C.novyi-NT phantoms compared to unlabeled controls. Under confocal fluorescence microscopy, the iron-oxide labeled C.novyi-NT exhibited a uniform red fluorescence consistent with observed regions of DAPI staining and overall labeling efficiency was 100% (all DAPI stained C.novyi-NT exhibited red fluorescence). Within TEM images, a large number iron granules were observed within the iron-oxide labeled C.novyi-NT; these were not observed within unlabeled controls. Intra-procedural MRI measurements permitted in vivo visualization of the intra-tumoral distribution of iron-oxide labeled C.novyi-NT following percutaneous injection (depicted as punctate regions of SI reductions within T2*-weighted

Similar pro-NT and pro-RLX2 levels after preeclampsia and after uncomplicated pregnancy

NARCIS (Netherlands)

Zoet, G. A.(Gerbrand); van Rijn, B. B.(Bas); Rehfeldt, M. (Miriam); Franx, A. (Arie); Maas, Angela H E M

2017-01-01

OBJECTIVE: Women are at increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD) after preeclampsia. Proneurotensin 1-117 (pro-NT) and prorelaxin 2 connecting peptide (pro-RLX2) have recently emerged as potential biomarkers for CVD risk in women. We assessed pro-NT and pro-RLX2 levels in women with

Similar pro-NT and pro-RLX2 levels after preeclampsia and after uncomplicated pregnancy

NARCIS (Netherlands)

Zoet, G. A.(Gerbrand); van Rijn, B. B.(Bas); Rehfeldt, M. (Miriam); Franx, A. (Arie); Maas, Angela H E M

2017-01-01

Objective Women are at increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD) after preeclampsia. Proneurotensin 1-117 (pro-NT) and prorelaxin 2 connecting peptide (pro-RLX2) have recently emerged as potential biomarkers for CVD risk in women. We assessed pro-NT and pro-RLX2 levels in women with

Hypersensitive detection and quantitation of BoNT/A by IgY antibody against substrate linear-peptide.

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Tao Li

Full Text Available Botulinum neurotoxin A (BoNT/A, the most acutely poisonous substance to humans known, cleave its SNAP-25 substrate with high specificity. Based on the endopeptidase activity, different methods have been developed to detect BoNT/A, but most lack ideal reproducibility or sensitivity, or suffer from long-term or unwanted interferences. In this study, we developed a simple method to detect and quantitate trace amounts of botulinum neurotoxin A using the IgY antibody against a linear-peptide substrate. The effects of reaction buffer, time, and temperature were analyzed and optimized. When the optimized assay was used to detect BoNT/A, the limit of detection of the assay was 0.01 mouse LD50 (0.04 pg, and the limit of quantitation was 0.12 mouse LD50/ml (0.48 pg. The findings also showed favorable specificity of detecting BoNT/A. When used to detect BoNT/A in milk or human serum, the proposed assay exhibited good quantitative accuracy (88% < recovery < 111%; inter- and intra-assay CVs < 18%. This method of detection took less than 3 h to complete, indicating that it can be a valuable method of detecting BoNT/A in food or clinical diagnosis.

In-Vivo Neutralization of Botulinum Neurotoxin Serotype E Using Rabbit Polyclonal Antibody Developed against BoNT/E Light Chain.

Science.gov (United States)

Rani, Sarita; Ponmariappan, S; Sharma, Arti; Kamboj, D V; Jain, A K

2017-01-01

Clostridium botulinum is an obligate anaerobic, Gram positive bacterium that secretes extremely toxic substances known as botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) that cause serious paralytic illness called botulism. Based upon the serological properties, these neurotoxin have been classified into seven serotypes designated from A to G. Due to extreme toxicity of BoNTs, these neurotoxins have been designated as category A biowarfare agents. There is no commercial neutralizing antibody available for the treatment of botulism. Hence there is an urgent need to develop therapeutic intervention for prevention and cure of botulism within short period. BoNT antiserum injection is still the effective treatment. In the present study, the recombinant light chain of BoNT/E was successfully purified in soluble form. The purified rBoNT/E LC was used for the generation of polyclonal antibody in rabbit. In order to find out the neutralizing capacity of generated antisera, rabbit antiserum was incubated with 20 LD50 of botulinum neurotoxin type E for 1 hour at 37°C and then injected intraperitoneally (IP) into mice. Further in another set of experiments antiserum was administered in different ways that included administration of - antiserum and BoNT/E toxin simultaneously without preincubation, one after another at the same and different time points for its therapeutic ability. To find out cross neutralization capacity, rBoNT/E LC antiserum was pre-incubated with 5 LD50 of BoNT/A, BoNT/B, BoNT/F and then injected (IP) into mice. In all the cases mice were observed continuously for 96 hours. The results clearly indicate that developed polyclonal rabbit antiserum showed serotype specific neutralization of BoNT/E toxin only but not of BoNT/A, BoNT/B and BoNT/F. The developed antibodies will be used for preventive and therapeutic intervention of type 'E' botulism. Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.org.

Overexpression of NtWRKY50 Increases Resistance to Ralstonia solanacearum and Alters Salicylic Acid and Jasmonic Acid Production in Tobacco.

Science.gov (United States)

Liu, Qiuping; Liu, Ying; Tang, Yuanman; Chen, Juanni; Ding, Wei

2017-01-01

WRKY transcription factors (TFs) modulate plant responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. Here, we characterized a WRKY IIc TF, NtWRKY50, isolated from tobacco ( Nicotiana tabacum ) plants. The results showed that NtWRKY50 is a nuclear-localized protein and that its gene transcript is induced in tobacco when inoculated with the pathogenic bacterium Ralstonia solanacearum . Overexpression of NtWRKY50 enhanced bacterial resistance, which correlated with enhanced SA and JA/ET signaling genes. However, silencing of the NtWRKY50 gene had no obvious effects on plant disease resistance, implying functional redundancy of NtWRKY50 with other TFs. In addition, it was found that NtWRKY50 can be induced by various biotic or abiotic stresses, such as Potato virus Y, Rhizoctonia solani, Phytophthora parasitica , hydrogen peroxide, heat, cold, and wounding as well as the hormones salicylic acid (SA), jasmonic acid (JA), and ethylene (ET). Importantly, additional analysis suggests that NtWRKY50 overexpression markedly promotes SA levels but prevents pathogen-induced JA production. These data indicate that NtWRKY50 overexpression leads to altered SA and JA content, increased expression of defense-related genes and enhanced plant resistance to R. solanacearum. These probably due to increased activity of endogenous NtWRKY50 gene or could be gain-of-function phenotypes by altering the profile of genes affected by NtWRKY50 .

NT-proBNP levels, atherosclerosis and vascular function in asymptomatic type 2 diabetic patients with microalbuminuria: peripheral reactive hyperaemia index but not NT-proBNP is an independent predictor of coronary atherosclerosis

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Reinhard, Henrik; Wiinberg, Niels; Hansen, Peter R

2011-01-01

Intensive multifactorial treatment aimed at cardiovascular (CV) risk factor reduction in type 2 diabetic patients with microalbuminuria can diminish fatal and non-fatal CV. Plasma N-terminal (NT)-proBNP predicts CV mortality in diabetic patients but the utility of P-NT-proBNP in screening for ath......-media thickness (CIMT)>0.90 mm, ankle-brachial index...

Random mutagenesis of BoNT/E Hc nanobody to construct a secondary phage-display library.

Science.gov (United States)

Shahi, B; Mousavi Gargari, S L; Rasooli, I; Rajabi Bazl, M; Hoseinpoor, R

2014-08-01

To construct secondary mutant phage-display library of recombinant single variable domain (VHH) against botulinum neurotoxin E by error-prone PCR. The gene coding for specific VHH derived from the camel immunized with binding domain of botulinum neurotoxin E (BoNT/E) was amplified by error-prone PCR. Several biopanning rounds were used to screen the phage-displaying BoNT/E Hc nanobodies. The final nanobody, SHMR4, with increased affinity recognized BoNT/E toxin with no cross-reactivity with other antigens especially with related BoNT toxins. The constructed nanobody could be a suitable candidate for VHH-based biosensor production to detect the Clostridium botulinum type E. Diagnosis and treatment of botulinum neurotoxins are important. Generation of high-affinity antibodies based on the construction of secondary libraries using affinity maturation step leads to the development of reagents for precise diagnosis and therapy. © 2014 The Society for Applied Microbiology.

The nT1 translocation separates vulval regulatory elements from the egl-18 and elt-6 GATA factor genes.

Science.gov (United States)

Koh, Kyunghee; Bernstein, Yelena; Sundaram, Meera V

2004-03-01

egl-18 and elt-6 are partially redundant, adjacent genes encoding GATA factors essential for viability, seam cell development, and vulval development in Caenorhabditis elegans. The nT1 reciprocal translocation causes a strong Vulvaless phenotype, and an nT1 breakpoint was previously mapped to the left arm of LGIV, where egl-18/elt-6 are located. Here we present evidence that the nT1 vulval phenotype is due to a disruption of egl-18/elt-6 function specifically in the vulva. egl-18 mutations do not complement nT1 for vulval defects, and the nT1 breakpoint on LGIV is located within approximately 800 bp upstream of a potential transcriptional start site of egl-18. In addition, we have identified a approximately 350-bp cis-regulatory region sufficient for vulval expression just upstream of the nT1 breakpoint. By examining the fusion state and division patterns of the cells in the developing vulva of nT1 mutants, we demonstrate that egl-18/elt-6 prevent fusion and promote cell proliferation at multiple steps of vulval development.

Selvitys palkanlaskennan ongelmatilanteista : case: UPM-Kymmene Oyj

OpenAIRE

Rantanen, Marjaana

2010-01-01

Tässä opinnäytetyössä tutustuttiin UPM-Kymmene Oyj:n palkkahallinnon kehitysprojektiin ja projektin vaikutuksiin yrityksen palkkahallinnossa. Palkkahallinnon kehitysprojekti kattaa palkkahallinnon keskittämisen yhteen palvelukeskukseen ja uuden palkkajärjestelmän käyttöönottoprosessin. Tämän raportin tavoite oli selvittää projektiin liittyen palkanlaskijoiden ongelmatilanteet jokaisen palkanlaskijan oman palkkajärjestelmän ja omien käytäntöjen kautta. Ilmi tulleet ongelmatilanteet koottiin lo...

Physics capabilities of the second stage Baikal detector NT-200

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Spiering, C.; Heller, R.; Heukenkamp, H.; Krabi, J.; Mikolajski, T.; Thon, T.; Wischnewski, R.; Alatin, S.D.; Fialkovsky, S.V.; Kulepov, V.F.; Milenin, M.B.; Belolaptikov, I.A.; Bezrukov, L.B.; Borisovets, B.A.; Bugaev, E.V.; Djilkibaev, Zh.A.M.; Domogatsky, G.V.; Donskich, L.A.; Doroshenko, A.A.; Galperin, M.D.; Gushtan, M.N.; Klabukov, A.M.; Klimushin, S.I.; Lanin, O.J.; Lubsandorzhiev, B.K.; Ogievietzky, N.V.; Panfilov, A.I.; Sokalsky, I.A.; Trofimenko, I.I.; Budnev, N.M.; Chensky, A.G.; Dobrynin, V.I.; Gress, O.A.; Koshechkin, A.P.; Lanin, J.B.; Litunenko, G.A.; Lopin, A.L.; Naumov, V.A.; Nemchenko, M.I.; Parfenov, Yu.V.; Pavlov, A.A.; Pokalev, O.P.; Primin, V.A.; Sumanov, A.A.; Tarashansky, V.A.; Zurbanov, V.L.; Dudkin, G.N.; Egorov, V.Yu.; Lukanin, A.A.; Ovcharov, A.M.; Padalko, V.M.; Padusenko, A.H.; Golikov, A.V.; Kabikov, V.B.; Kuzmichov, L.A.; Osipova, E.A.; Zaslavskaya, E.S.; Jenek, L.; Kiss, D.; Tanko, L.; Kusner, Yu.S.; Poleschuk, V.A.; Sherstyankin, P.P.; Levin, A.A.; Nikiforov, A.I.; Rosanov, M.I.

1991-12-01

We describe the lake Baikal deep underwater detector 'NT-200' and discuss its physics capabilities to investigate problems in the field of neutrino astrophysics, cosmic ray physics and particle physics. (orig.)

Biological profile of 99mTc-HYNIC-βAla-NT(8-13) in MDAMB-231 breast cancer cell line

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Teodoro, Rodrigo; Faintuch, Bluma L.; Wiecek, Danielle P.; Silva, Natanael G.; Vallejo, Natalia M.

2009-01-01

Introduction: Neurotensin (NT) is a tridecapeptide involved in several growth-steps of human cancers. Recent studies postulated the role of NT and NT-receptor subtype 1 in breast cancer progression. However, the main drawback of natural NT is its rapid degradation in plasma. In an effort to develop a NT peptide-based radiopharmaceutical for the detection of breast cancer, the aim of this study was the radiolabeling of the double stabilized NT(8-13) peptide using HYNIC as chelating agent. Methods: Conjugated HYNIC-βAla-NT(8-13) was labeled with 99m Tc using tricine and EDDA as coligands. Radiochemical purity was checked by TLC and confirmed by RP-HPLC. 99m Tc-HYNIC-βAla-NT(8-13) (0.1 mL/74 MBq) was administered in Nude mice bearing MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells and biodistribution studies were carried out at 30 and 90 min postinjection (pi). Blocking evaluation was also conducted by co-injection of 115 nmol of cold NT (8-13) analog. Planar gamma-camera imaging was acquired at the earlier time point studied. Results: Radiochemical purity of the radioconjugate was higher than 99%. Biodistribution studies revealed a very fast accumulation in tumor (1.97±0.18% ID/g, 30 min pi) with a sharply decrease at the later time point studied (0.44±0.02% ID/g). The specificity of the radioconjugate was evaluated with blockade studies. A reduction of 45.94%, 27.73% and 36.39% was found for tumor, large and small intestines, respectively, at 30 min pi. Otherwise, a less impressive blockade was observed for tumor and small intestine (28.68% and 24.90%, respectively) at the later time point studied. Conclusion: The results provide encouraging evidence in the development of radiolabeled NT(8-13) analogues for breast cancer diagnosis. (author)

The prognostic value of individual NT-proBNP values in chronic heart failure does not change with advancing age.

Science.gov (United States)

Frankenstein, L; Clark, A L; Goode, K; Ingle, L; Remppis, A; Schellberg, D; Grabs, F; Nelles, M; Cleland, J G F; Katus, H A; Zugck, C

2009-05-01

It is unclear whether age-related increases in N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) represent a normal physiological process-possibly affecting the prognostic power-of NT-proBNP-or reflect age-related subclinical pathological changes. To determine the effect of age on the short-term prognostic value of NT-proBNP in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF). Prospective observational study with inclusion and matching of consecutive patients aged >65 years (mean (SD) 73.1 (6.0) years) to patients <65 years (53.7 (8.6) years) with respect to NT-proBNP, New York Heart Association stage, sex and aetiology of CHF (final n = 443). University hospital outpatient departments in the UK and Germany. Chronic stable heart failure due to systolic left ventricular dysfunction. None. All-cause mortality. In both age groups, NT-proBNP was a significant univariate predictor of mortality, and independent of age, sex and other established risk markers. The prognostic information given by NT-proBNP was comparable between the two groups, as reflected by the 1-year mortality of 9% in both groups. The prognostic accuracy of NT-proBNP as judged by the area under the receiver operating characteristics curve for the prediction of 1-year mortality was comparable for elderly and younger patients (0.67 vs 0.71; p = 0.09). NT-proBNP reflects disease severity in elderly and younger patients alike. In patients with chronic stable heart failure, the NT-proBNP value carries the same 1-year prognostic information regardless of the age of the patient.

Three enzymatically active neurotoxins of Clostridium botulinum strain Af84: BoNT/A2, /F4, and /F5.

Science.gov (United States)

Kalb, Suzanne R; Baudys, Jakub; Smith, Theresa J; Smith, Leonard A; Barr, John R

2014-04-01

Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) are produced by various species of clostridia and are potent neurotoxins which cause the disease botulism, by cleaving proteins needed for successful nerve transmission. There are currently seven confirmed serotypes of BoNTs, labeled A-G, and toxin-producing clostridia typically only produce one serotype of BoNT. There are a few strains (bivalent strains) which are known to produce more than one serotype of BoNT, producing either both BoNT/A and /B, BoNT/A and /F, or BoNT/B and /F, designated as Ab, Ba, Af, or Bf. Recently, it was reported that Clostridium botulinum strain Af84 has three neurotoxin gene clusters: bont/A2, bont/F4, and bont/F5. This was the first report of a clostridial organism containing more than two neurotoxin gene clusters. Using a mass spectrometry based proteomics approach, we report here that all three neurotoxins, BoNT/A2, /F4, and /F5, are produced by C. botulinum Af84. Label free MS(E) quantification of the three toxins indicated that toxin composition is 88% BoNT/A2, 1% BoNT/F4, and 11% BoNT/F5. The enzymatic activity of all three neurotoxins was assessed by examining the enzymatic activity of the neurotoxins upon peptide substrates, which mimic the toxins' natural targets, and monitoring cleavage of the substrates by mass spectrometry. We determined that all three neurotoxins are enzymatically active. This is the first report of three enzymatically active neurotoxins produced in a single strain of Clostridium botulinum.

Genome sequence of a microbial lipid producing fungus Cryptococcus albidus NT2002.

Science.gov (United States)

Yong, Xiaoyu; Yan, Zhiying; Xu, Lin; Zhou, Jun; Wu, Xiayuan; Wu, Yuandong; Li, Yang; Chen, Zugeng; Zhou, Hua; Wei, Ping; Jia, Honghua

2016-04-10

Cryptococcus albidus NT2002, isolated from the soil in Xinjiang, China, appeared to have the ability to accumulate microbial lipid by utilizing various carbon sources. The predominant properties make it as a potential bio-platform for biodiesel production. Here, we report the complete genome sequence of C. albidus NT2002, which might provide a basis for further elucidation of the genetic background of this promising strain for developing metabolic engineering strategies to produce biodiesel in a green and sustainable manner. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Relationship between CCR and NT-proBNP in Chinese HF patients, and their correlations with severity of HF.

Science.gov (United States)

Lu, Zhigang; Wang, Bo; Wang, Yunliang; Qian, Xueqing; Zheng, Wei; Wei, Meng

2014-01-01

To evaluate the relationship between creatinine clearance rate (CCR) and the level of N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) in heart failure (HF) patients and their correlations with HF severity. Two hundred and one Chinese patients were grouped according to the New York Heart Association (NYHA) classification as NYHA 1-2 and 3-4 groups and 135 cases out of heart failure patients as control group. The following variables were compared among these three groups: age, sex, body mass index (BMI), smoking status, hypertension, diabetes, NT-proBNP, creatinine (Cr), uric acid (UA), left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD), and CCR. The biomarkers of NT-proBNP, Cr, UA, LVEDD, and CCR varied significantly in the three groups, and these variables were positively correlated with the NHYA classification. The levels of NT-proBNP and CCR were closely related to the occurrence of HF and were independent risk factors for HF. At the same time, there was a significant negative correlation between the levels of NT-proBNP and CCR. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve suggested that the NT-proBNP and CCR have high accuracy for diagnosis of HF and have clinical diagnostic value. NT-proBNP and CCR may be important biomarkers in evaluating the severity of HF.

Involvement of neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) in the functional elimination of synaptic contacts during neuromuscular development.

Science.gov (United States)

Garcia, Neus; Santafé, Manel M; Tomàs, Marta; Lanuza, Maria A; Besalduch, Nuria; Tomàs, Josep

2010-04-05

Confocal immunohistochemistry shows that neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) and its receptor tropomyosin-related tyrosin kinase C (trkC) are present in both neonatal (P6) and adult (P45) mouse motor nerve terminals in neuromuscular junctions (NMJ) colocalized with several synaptic proteins. NT-3 incubation (1-3h, in the range 10-200ng/ml) does not change the size of the evoked and spontaneous endplate potentials at P45. However, NT-3 (1h, 100ng/ml) strongly potentiates evoked ACh release from the weak (70%) and the strong (50%) axonal inputs on dually innervated postnatal endplates (P6) but not in the most developed postnatal singly innervated synapses at P6. The present results indicate that NT-3 has a role in the developmental mechanism that eliminates redundant synapses though it cannot modulate synaptic transmission locally as the NMJ matures.

Increased NT-pro-B-type natriuretic peptide independently predicts outcome following catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Nilsson, Brian; Goetze, Jens Peter; Chen, Xu

2009-01-01

AIMS: To investigate whether NT-proBNP before ablation treatment and after exercise testing has predictive information regarding the clinical outcome following pulmonary vein isolation in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). METHODS: NT-proBNP analysis were obtained before the ablation (before...

Prenatal Clinical Assessment of NT-proBNP as a Diagnostic Tool for Preeclampsia, Gestational Hypertension and Gestational Diabetes Mellitus.

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Pawel Sadlecki

Full Text Available Common complications of pregnancy include preeclampsia (PE, gestational hypertension (GH and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM. Hypertensive disorders (PE/GH and GDM may result in greater maternal, fetal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Women with PE/GH, one of the most common causes of heart burden in an obstetrical setting, present with elevated serum levels of BNP and NT-proBNP. The aim of this study was to shed more light on the role of NT-proBNP in pathophysiology of PE, GH and GDM. The study included 156 pregnant women with singleton pregnancies. A total of 26 women developed arterial hypertension during pregnancy, 14 were diagnosed with PE, and GDM was detected in 81 patients. The control group included 35 women with uncomplicated pregnancies, normal arterial blood pressure and normal glucose concentrations. Patients with GH presented with significantly higher serum concentrations of NT-proBNPthan normotensive women (65.5 vs. 37.4 pg/ml; p = 0.0136. Serum levels of NT-proBNP in patients with PE were the highest of all the analyzed subsets, being significantly higher than in women without this condition (89.00 vs. 37.4pg/ml,p = 0,0136. However, women with and without GDM did not differ significantly in terms of their serum NT-proBNPconcentrations. Serum NT-proBNP (pg/ml (p = 0.0001 and BMI (p<0.0001 turned out to be independent predictors of GH on multivariate logistic regression analysis.Moreover, serum NT-proBNP (pg/ml was identified as an independent indicator of PE (p = 0.0016. A significant inverse correlation was found between birth weight and maternal serum NT-proBNP concentrations. In our opinion, NT-proBNP can be a useful clinical marker of GH and PE. Determination of NT-proBNP levels may be helpful in identification of patients with PE and GH and in their qualification for intensive treatment; this in turn, may be reflected by better neonatal outcomes.

The predictive value of plasma biomarkers in discharged heart failure patients: role of plasma NT-proBNP.

Science.gov (United States)

Leto, Laura; Testa, Marzia; Feola, Mauro

2016-04-01

Natriuretic peptides (NPs) have demonstrated their value to support clinical diagnosis of heart failure (HF); furthermore they are also studied for their prognostic role using them to guide appropriate management strategies. The present review gathers available evidence on prognostic role of N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) in patients hospitalized for acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF). We searched Medline for English-language studies with the sequent key-words: "acute heart failure/acute decompensated heart failure", "NT-proBNP/N-terminal pro-B type natriuretic peptide" and "prognosis/mortality/readmission". Almost 30 studies were included. NT-proBNP plasma levels at admission are strongly associated with all-cause short-term mortality (2-3 months), mid-term (6-11 months) or long- term mortality (more than one year) of follow-up. Regarding the prognostic power on cardiac death fewer data are available with uncertain results. NT-proBNP at discharge demonstrated its prognostic role for all-cause mortality at mid and long-term follow-up. The relation between NT-proBNP at discharge and cardiovascular mortality or composite end-point is under investigation. A decrease in NT-proBNP values during hospitalization provided prognostic prospects mainly for cardiovascular mortality and HF readmission. A 30% variation in NT-proBNP levels during in-hospital stay seemed to be an optimal cut-off for prognostic role. SNT-proBNP plasma levels proved to have a strong correlation with all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, morbidity and composite outcomes in patients discharged after an ADHF. A better definition of the correct time of serial measurements and the cut-off values might be the challenge for the future investigations.

Extremely intense (SML ≤–2500 nT substorms: isolated events that are externally triggered?

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

B. T. Tsurutani

2015-05-01

Full Text Available We examine particularly intense substorms (SML ≤–2500 nT, hereafter called "supersubstorms" or SSS events, to identify their nature and their magnetic storm dependences. It is found that these intense substorms are typically isolated events and are only loosely related to magnetic storms. SSS events can occur during super (Dst ≤–250 nT and intense (−100 nT ≥ Dst >–250 magnetic storms. SSS events can also occur during nonstorm (Dst ≥–50 nT intervals. SSSs are important because the strongest ionospheric currents will flow during these events, potentially causing power outages on Earth. Several SSS examples are shown. SSS events appear to be externally triggered by small regions of very high density (~30 to 50 cm−3 solar wind plasma parcels (PPs impinging upon the magnetosphere. Precursor southward interplanetary magnetic fields are detected prior to the PPs hitting the magnetosphere. Our hypothesis is that these southward fields input energy into the magnetosphere/magnetotail and the PPs trigger the release of the stored energy.

Työnopastuksen kehittäminen Varuskuntaravintola Kotkassa

OpenAIRE

Hälikkä, Mari-Anna

2016-01-01

Tämän opinnäytetyön tavoitteena oli kehittää työnopastusta Varuskuntaravintola Kotkassa. Leijona Catering Oy:llä on olemassa oma perehdyttämisrunko ja materiaali uuden työntekijän yleiseen perehdyttämiseen ja koko organisaation toimintaan, mutta Varuskuntaravintola Kotkan kirjallinen materiaali toimipaikkakohtaiseen työnopastukseen oli puutteellinen ja osittain vanhentunut. Tässä työssä laadittiin toimeksiantajalle, Varuskuntaravintola Kotkalle, työnopastuksen käytäntöä tukeva työnopastusmate...

Anniskelun palvelukäsikirja Kaukametsän tilausravintoloille

OpenAIRE

Tervo, Jukka-Pekka

2007-01-01

Kaukametsän ravintolat on Kajaanin Mamselliin kuuluva ravintolayksikkö, joka toimii pääsääntöisesti tilausravintolana. Kajaanin Mamsellin laatiman Laatukäsikirjan mukaan jokaisen Mamsellin omistaman ravintolan on suunniteltava toimipisteelleen palvelukäsikirja, jonka mukaan toimipisteessä toimitaan. Tässä opinnäytetyössä tarkoituksena oli kehittää ja tarkentaa Kaukametsän ravintolan palvelukäsikirjan alkoholijuomia koskevaa kohtaa paremmin käytännön työtä palvelevaksi. Erityise...

Biological profile of {sup 99m}Tc-HYNIC-betaAla-NT(8-13) in MDAMB-231 breast cancer cell line

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Teodoro, Rodrigo; Faintuch, Bluma L.; Wiecek, Danielle P.; Silva, Natanael G.; Vallejo, Natalia M., E-mail: teodoro_rodrigo@yahoo.com.b [Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares (IPEN/CNEN-SP), Sao Paulo, SP (Brazil). Diretoria de Radiofarmacia

2009-07-01

Introduction: Neurotensin (NT) is a tridecapeptide involved in several growth-steps of human cancers. Recent studies postulated the role of NT and NT-receptor subtype 1 in breast cancer progression. However, the main drawback of natural NT is its rapid degradation in plasma. In an effort to develop a NT peptide-based radiopharmaceutical for the detection of breast cancer, the aim of this study was the radiolabeling of the double stabilized NT(8-13) peptide using HYNIC as chelating agent. Methods: Conjugated HYNIC-betaAla-NT(8-13) was labeled with {sup 99m}Tc using tricine and EDDA as coligands. Radiochemical purity was checked by TLC and confirmed by RP-HPLC. {sup 99m}Tc-HYNIC-betaAla-NT(8-13) (0.1 mL/74 MBq) was administered in Nude mice bearing MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells and biodistribution studies were carried out at 30 and 90 min postinjection (pi). Blocking evaluation was also conducted by co-injection of 115 nmol of cold NT (8-13) analog. Planar gamma-camera imaging was acquired at the earlier time point studied. Results: Radiochemical purity of the radioconjugate was higher than 99%. Biodistribution studies revealed a very fast accumulation in tumor (1.97+-0.18% ID/g, 30 min pi) with a sharply decrease at the later time point studied (0.44+-0.02% ID/g). The specificity of the radioconjugate was evaluated with blockade studies. A reduction of 45.94%, 27.73% and 36.39% was found for tumor, large and small intestines, respectively, at 30 min pi. Otherwise, a less impressive blockade was observed for tumor and small intestine (28.68% and 24.90%, respectively) at the later time point studied. Conclusion: The results provide encouraging evidence in the development of radiolabeled NT(8-13) analogues for breast cancer diagnosis. (author)

CLC-Nt1, a putative chloride channel protein of tobacco, co-localizes with mitochondrial membrane markers.

Science.gov (United States)

Lurin, C; Güclü, J; Cheniclet, C; Carde, J P; Barbier-Brygoo, H; Maurel, C

2000-06-01

The voltage-dependent chloride channel (CLC) family of membrane proteins has cognates in animals, yeast, bacteria and plants, and chloride-channel activity has been assigned to most of the animal homologues. Lack of evidence of CLC functions in plants prompted us to characterize the cellular localization of the tobacco CLC-Nt1 protein. Specific polyclonal antibodies were raised against an N-terminal polypeptide of CLC-Nt1. These antibodies were used to probe membrane proteins prepared by various cell-fractionation methods. These included aqueous two-phase partitioning (for plasma membranes), free-flow electrophoresis (for vacuolar and plasma membranes), intact vacuole isolation, Percoll-gradient centrifugation (for plastids and mitochondria) and stepped, linear, sucrose-density-gradient centrifugation (for mitochondria). Each purified membrane fraction was characterized with specific marker enzyme activities or antibodies. Our studies ruled out the possibility that the major cell localization of CLC-Nt1 was the vacuolar or plasma membranes, the endoplasmic reticulum, the Golgi apparatus or the plastids. In contrast, we showed that the tobacco CLC-Nt1 specifically co-localized with the markers of the mitochondrial inner membrane, cytochrome c oxidase and NAD9 protein. CLC-Nt1 may correspond to the inner membrane anion channel ('IMAC') described previously in animal and plant mitochondria.

GLI1 is involved in cell cycle regulation and proliferation of NT2 embryonal carcinoma stem cells

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Vestergaard, Janni; Lind-Thomsen, Allan; Pedersen, Mikkel W.

2008-01-01

of altered HH signaling are interpreted by specific cell types. We have investigated the role of the HH transcription factor glioma-associated oncogene homolog 1 (GLI1) in the human Ntera2=D1 (NT2) embryonal carcinoma stem cell line. The study revealed that expression of GLI1 and its direct transcriptional......1 phase cyclins. In conclusion, our results suggest that GLI1 is involved in cell cycle and proliferation control in the embryonal carcinoma stem cell line NT2....... target Patched (PTCH) is downregulated in the early stages of retinoic acid-induced neuronal differentiation of NT2 cells. To identify transcriptional targets of the HH transcription factor GLI1 in NT2 cells, we performed global expression profiling following GLI1 RNA interference (RNAi). Of the similar...

Use of the decision support system RECASS NT (Radio Ecological Analysis Support System) for anti terrorism actions

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bulgakov, V.G.; Gariyants, A.M.; Kosykh, V.S.; Shershakov, V.M.

2006-01-01

Decision support system RECASS NT (Radio Ecological Analysis Support System) was developed and is still enhancing in Federal Service Roshydromet for providing on-line estimates and prognoses of radiation and chemical situation in the event of an emergency, including acts of terrorism, as well as to estimate transboundary pollutants transport. RECASS NT has been installed at all ten NPPs of the Russian Federation, in Crisis Centers of Roshydromet, concern Rosenergoatom and Minatom, at plants for destroying chemical weapons. The paper describes the structure of RECASS NT system and discuss its possible application in case of an emergency on examples of using the system during radiation emergency response exercises at NPPs. RECASS NT can be used for developing recommendations regarding time when anti terrorism operations are better to be started with a view to minimize damage

NT-proBNP in unstable coronary artery disease--experiences from the FAST, GUSTO IV and FRISC II trials.

Science.gov (United States)

Jernberg, Tomas; James, Stefan; Lindahl, Bertil; Stridsberg, Mats; Venge, Per; Wallentin, Lars

2004-03-15

Risk stratification is important in patients with unstable coronary artery disease (CAD), i.e. unstable angina or non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction. This article focuses on the emerging role of N-terminal pro brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and the results from the FAST, GUSTO IV and FRISC II trials. In the FAST study, NT-proBNP was measured on admission in 755 patients admitted because of symptoms suggestive of unstable CAD. Follow up was performed after 40 months. The GUSTO IV and the FRISC II-trials included patients with unstable CAD and NT-proBNP was analyzed in 6806 and 2019 patients, with follow up after 1 and 2 years, respectively. In the FAST study, patients in the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th NT-proBNP quartile had a relative risk of subsequent death of 4.2 (1.6-11.1), 10.7 (4.2-26.8) and 26.6 (10.8-65.5), respectively. In the GUSTO IV trial, increasing quartiles of NT-proBNP were related to short and long term mortality which at 1 year was; 1.8%, 3.9%, 7.7% and 19.2% (P<0.001), respectively. In multivariable analyses including well-known predictors of outcome, NT-proBNP level was independently associated to mortality in all three studies. In the FRISC II trial, the NT-proBNP level, especially if combined with a marker of inflammation, identified those with the greatest benefit from an early invasive strategy. NT-proBNP is strongly associated with mortality in patients with suspected or confirmed unstable CAD and, combined with a marker of inflammation, seems helpful in identifying those with greatest benefit from an early invasive strategy.

NT-proBNP, echocardiographic abnormalities and subclinical coronary artery disease in high risk type 2 diabetic patients

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Reinhard, Henrik; Hansen, Peter R; Wiinberg, Niels

2012-01-01

-NT-proBNP and the putative residual abnormalities in such patients are not well described. This study examined echocardiographic measurements of LV hypertrophy, atrial dilatation and LV dysfunction and their relation to P-NT-proBNP levels or subclinical coronary artery disease (CAD) in type 2 diabetic patients......Intensive multifactorial treatment aimed at prevention of cardiovascular (CV) disease may reduce left ventricular (LV) echocardiographic abnormalities in diabetic subjects. Plasma N-terminal (NT)-proBNP predicts CV mortality in diabetic patients but the association between P...

Comparison of Abbott AxSYM and Roche Elecsys 2010 for measurement of BNP and NT-proBNP.

Science.gov (United States)

Chien, Tzu-I; Chen, Hui-Hou; Kao, Jau-Tsuen

2006-07-15

B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) are small cardiac hormones released from the heart. They can be used as an important aid to diagnose congestive heart failure (CHF). We compared the performances of the Abbott AxSYM and Roche Elecsys 2010 for the measurement of BNP and NT-proBNP. The first method uses a microparticle enzyme-linked immunoassay, whereas the other uses chemiluminescent immunometric assay. The CVs using pooled sera ranged from 3.7% to 12.7% for the AxSYM and 0.9% to 2.2% for the Elecsys 2010. The Passing and Bablok regression was Elecsys 2010 NT-proBNP=7.23xAxSYM BNP+2.53. The BNP in EDTA plasma was more stable than in serum. The immunoreactivity difference of NT-proBNP in serum or EDTA plasma was within 10% when stored at 4 degrees Celsius or 25 degrees Celsius for 72 h. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were different for both assays, and the areas under the curves were 0.704 and 0.841 for the AxSYM and Elecsys 2010 method, respectively. Both assays were not entirely specific for heart failure. The precision and stability for NT-proBNP was better than for BNP in serum. It is important to use method-appropriate reference ranges (or cutoff) for the BNP and NT-proBNP, respectively, in the assessment of CHF.

NT Logistika kitsaskohast sai ettevõttele trump / Elo Odres

Index Scriptorium Estoniae

Odres, Elo, 1969-

2007-01-01

NT Logistika pälvis kõige pere- ja töötajasõbralikuma ettevõtte tiitli. Vt. samas: Edetabel: Töötajasõbralike TOP; Peresõbralike TOP; Massaaž tuleb firmasse kätte; Suurfirmadel raske konkureerida; Töötajate lastest võrsub järelkasv; Tasuta lõunad on olemas

Omaa ääntä etsimässä : syntetisaattorin käyttö Orbit-yhtyeessä

OpenAIRE

Myrskog, Mikael

2014-01-01

Musiikkikappaleessa on mielestäni oleellisinta sen sisäinen, esteettinen maailma ja se tunne, joka tästä välittyy. Tässä kokonaisuudessa yksi tärkeimmistä tekijöistä on mielestäni kappaleen eri instrumenttien luoma yhteinen saundimaailma. Opinnäytetyössäni tutkin ja kuvailen, miten käytän syntetisaattoreita saundien luomiseen fuusiojazzyhtyeessä Orbit. Mielestäni on tärkeää olla tietoinen siitä musiikin perinteestä, minkä jatkumon osana itse on. Näin esittelen ja analysoin kappaleita,...

NT10: recent advances in carbon nanotube science and applications.

Science.gov (United States)

Dresselhaus, Mildred S

2010-08-24

A review of recent advances in carbon nanotube science and applications is presented in terms of what was learned at the NT10 11th International Conference on the Science and Application of Nanotubes held in Montreal, Canada, June 29-July 2, 2010.

Impact of underlying heart disease per se on the utility of preoperative NT-proBNP in adult cardiac surgery.

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Huiqi Jiang

Full Text Available The primary aim was to investigate the role of underlying heart disease on preoperative NT-proBNP levels in patients admitted for adult cardiac surgery, after adjusting for the known confounders age, gender, obesity and renal function. The second aim was to investigate the predictive value of preoperative NT-proBNP with regard to severe postoperative heart failure (SPHF and postoperative mortality.A retrospective cohort study based on preoperative NT-proBNP measurements in an unselected cohort including all patients undergoing first time surgery for coronary artery disease (CAD; n = 2226, aortic stenosis (AS; n = 406 or mitral regurgitation (MR; n = 346 from April 2010 to August 2016 in the southeast region of Sweden (n = 2978. Concomitant procedures were not included, with the exception of Maze or tricuspid valve procedures.Preoperative NT-proBNP was 1.67 times (p<0.0001 and 1.41 times (p<0.0001 higher in patients with AS or MR respectively, than in patients with CAD after adjusting for confounders. NT-proBNP demonstrated significant discrimination with regard to SPHF in CAD (AUC = 0.79, 95%CI 0.73-0.85, p<0.0001, MR (AUC = 0.80, 95%CI 0.72-0.87, p<0.0001 and AS (AUC = 0.66, 95%CI 0.51-0.81, p = 0.047. In CAD patients NT-proBNP demonstrated significant discrimination with regard to postoperative 30-day or in-hospital mortality (AUC = 0.78; 95%CI 0.71-0.85, p<0.0001. The number of deaths was too few in the AS and MR group to permit analysis. Elevated NT-proBNP emerged as an independent risk factor for SPHF, and postoperative mortality in CAD.Patients with AS or MR have higher preoperative NT-proBNP than CAD patients even after adjusting for confounders. The predictive value of NT-proBNP with regard to SPHF was confirmed in CAD and MR patients but was less convincing in AS patients.

Lounaslistan kehittäminen ja markkinointi : Ravintola Huviretki Kuopio

OpenAIRE

Mehtonen, Heli

2017-01-01

”Markkinointi on vastuullinen, suhteisiin ja yhteisöllisyyteen pohjautuva ajattelu- ja toimintatapa, jonka avulla luodaan myyvä, kilpailukykyinen ja eri osapuolille arvoa tuottava tarjooma vuorovaikutteisesti toimien.” Yrityksen perustehtävänä on tuottaa voittoa omistajilleen ja markkinoinnin osuus tästä on lisätä myyntivolyymiä ja mahdollistaa parempi myyntikate. On tärkeää tuoda asiakaskeskeisyys käytäntöön eikä vain ajatella olevansa asiakaskeskeinen. Lisäksi on tärkeää saada asiakkaat ost...

Manufacturing leisure - Innovations in happiness, well-being and fun

OpenAIRE

Pantzar, Mika; Shove, Elizabeth

2005-01-01

Kulutus ja vapaa-ajan talous ovat nousseet useissa länsimaissa elinkeinopoliittisen keskustelun huomion kohteeksi viime vuosina. Talouden kasvu on nähty yhä enemmän tapahtuvan ns. elämystalouden ja viihdeteollisuuden virittämänä. Manufacturing leisure - Innovations in happiness, well-being and fun lähestyy vapaa-ajan klusteria kuluttajien vapaa-ajan käytäntöjen näkökulmasta. Saksalaiset, englantilaiset ja suomalaiset tutkijat pyrkivät vastaamaan muun muassa seuraaviin kysymyksiin: · Minkälais...

Tuotannon layoutin suunnittelu Flinkenberg OY:lle

OpenAIRE

Puotiniemi, Olli

2013-01-01

Opinnäytetyön aiheena on layoutsuunnittelu Flinkenberg Oy:lle. Yrityksen on tarkoitus tulevaisuudessa hankkia uusi työstökone nykyisiin toimitiloihin. Siitä seurasi tarve saada uusi layoutsuunnitelma tuotantohallista vanhan tilalle. Myös vanha layout kaipasi päivitystä. Opinnäytetyössä on pyritty soveltamaan jo olemassa olevaa teoriaa ja käytäntöä layoutsuunnittelussa. Teoriaa oli tarjolla paljon, ja olikin tärkeää osata perehtyä vain olennaiseen. Siihen tässäkin tutkimuksessa on pyritty....

NT-proBNP levels, atherosclerosis and vascular function in asymptomatic type 2 diabetic patients with microalbuminuria: peripheral reactive hyperaemia index but not NT-proBNP is an independent predictor of coronary atherosclerosis

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Reinhard, Henrik; Wiinberg, Niels; Hansen, Peter R

2011-01-01

for atherosclerosis is unclear. We examined the interrelationship between P-NT-proBNP, presence of atherosclerosis and/or vascular dysfunction in the coronary, carotid and peripheral arteries in asymptomatic type 2 diabetic patients with microalbuminuria that received intensive multifactorial treatment. METHODS...... AND RESULTS: P-NT-proBNP was measured in 200 asymptomatic type 2 patients without known cardiac disease that received intensive multifactorial treatment for CV risk reduction. Patients were examined for coronary, carotid and peripheral atherosclerosis, as defined by coronary calcium score=400, carotid intima...

Systematics of (n,t) reactions in medium and heavy mass nuclei at 14.6 MeV

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Woo, T.T.

1979-01-01

The production cross sections for (n,t) reactions of 14.6-MeV neutrons with isotopes of the natural elements Ca, Ti, Cr, Fe, Ni, Y, Mo, Pd, Cd, Sn, Pb, La, and with the enriched isotopes 86 Sr, 114 Cd, 130 Te, 205 Tl were measured by the activation technique using high-energy resolution gamma-ray spectrometry. The systematics for the (n,t) reactions were investigated as a function of the relative neutron excess. The experimentally determined values of the cross sections are in good agreement with values calculated by an empirical equation. The cross section ratios (n,t) and (n,p) reactions were calculated on the basis of the statistical model

Plasma NT-proBNP mirrors the deleterious cardiovascular and renal continuum in hypertension.

Science.gov (United States)

Courand, Pierre-Yves; Harbaoui, Brahim; Bècle, Clément; Mouly-Bertin, Carine; Lantelme, Pierre

2017-03-01

Background The aims of this study were (a) to test the ability of N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) to detect subclinical target organ damage (TOD) denoted by left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), aortic stiffness or renal damage and (b) to test its reproducibility in two different conditions in an ancillary study. Methods The study included 837 patients (50.9% men) with hypertension aged 50 ± 24 years with a median 24-h ambulatory blood pressure (BP) of 148/90 mmHg. LVH was assessed by transthoracic echocardiography and echocardiography, aortic stiffness was assessed by carotid-femoral pulse wave (PWV) measurements and renal dysfunction by measurements of the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and microalbuminuria. Results After the exclusion of patients with a history of heart failure, NT-proBNP was independently correlated with sex, systolic BP, primary hypertension, PWV, LVH and eGFR, but not with microalbuminuria. The median (interquartile range) NT-proBNP increased gradually according to the number of target organs damaged: 42 (24-70), 77 (39-151), 141 (81-250) and 334 (177-556) pg/mL, for damage to 0, 1, 2 and 3 target organs, respectively ( p secondary hypertension. A threshold at 90 pg/mL for men and 142 pg/mL in women had a specificity of 95% to detect at least one TOD (areas under ROC curve 0.790 and 0.783, respectively). The reproducibility of NT-proBNP was fairly good in this setting ( r = 0.952, p hypertension.

NT-proBNP is associated with fibulin-1 in Africans

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Kruger, R; Schutte, R; Huisman, H W

2012-01-01

, expressed in elastin-containing fibres of blood vessels, and also in the heart. Due to an alarming prevalence of hypertensive heart disease in black South Africans, we investigated the associations of NT-proBNP with fibulin-1 and markers of arterial stiffness in Africans and Caucasians....

The association between disease activity and NT-proBNP in 238 patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a 10-year longitudinal study

Science.gov (United States)

Provan, Sella A; Angel, Kristin; Ødegård, Sigrid; Mowinckel, Petter; Atar, Dan; Kvien, Tore K

2008-01-01

Introduction Disease activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, of which N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) is a predictor. Our objective was to examine the cross-sectional and longitudinal associations between markers of inflammation, measures of RA disease activity, medication used in the treatment of RA, and NT-proBNP levels (dependent variable). Methods Two hundred thirty-eight patients with RA of less than 4 years in duration were followed longitudinally with three comprehensive assessments of clinical and radiographic data over a 10-year period. Serum samples were frozen and later batch-analyzed for NT-proBNP levels and other biomarkers. Bivariate, multivariate, and repeated analyses were performed. Results C-reactive protein (CRP) levels at baseline were cross-sectionally associated with NT-proBNP levels after adjustment for age and gender (r2 adjusted = 0.23; P < 0.05). At the 10-year follow-up, risk factors for cardiovascular disease were recorded. Duration of RA and CRP levels were independently associated with NT-proBNP in the final model that was adjusted for gender, age, and creatinine levels (r2 adjusted = 0.38; P < 0.001). In the longitudinal analyses, which adjusted for age, gender, and time of follow-up, we found that repeated measures of CRP predicted NT-proBNP levels (P < 0.001). Conclusion CRP levels are linearly associated with levels of NT-proBNP in cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses of patients with RA. The independent associations of NT-proBNP levels and markers of disease activity with clinical cardiovascular endpoints need to be further investigated. PMID:18573197

Biochemical properties of the matrix metalloproteinase NtMMP1 from Nicotiana tabacum cv. BY-2 suspension cells.

Science.gov (United States)

Mandal, Manoj K; Fischer, Rainer; Schillberg, Stefan; Schiermeyer, Andreas

2010-09-01

A zinc-dependent matrix metalloproteinase (NtMMP1) found in the plasma membrane of Nicotiana tabacum cv. Bright Yellow 2 (BY-2) suspension cells is thought to be responsible for the degradation of recombinant proteins secreted into the culture supernatant. We have characterized the proteolytic activity of NtMMP1 by expressing a recombinant derivative lacking the C-terminal transmembrane domain in yeast. After purifying the protein by affinity chromatography, its autocatalytic activity was analyzed using monoclonal antibodies raised against its N-terminal and C-terminal portions. Both the unprocessed and processed forms of NtMMP1 displayed caseinolytic activity and N-terminal sequencing identified an autocatalytic cleavage site within the sequence motif HFSFFP, which is similar to the corresponding sequences of the human matrix metalloproteinases stromelysin-1 (MMP-3) and stromelysin-2 (MMP-10). Unlike all other matrix metalloproteinases investigated so far, NtMMP1 contains a disulfide bond within its propeptide thus rendering the proenzyme catalytically active. Kinetic analysis of NtMMP1 with a synthetic substrate revealed a K(m) of 10.55 +/- 0.9 microM, a k(cat) of 0.6 +/- 0.01 s(-1) and maximum activity at pH 7.5. We found that NtMMP1 degrades Desmodus rotundus salivary plasminogen activator alpha 1 (DSPAalpha1), a biopharmaceutical protein, that has proven difficult to produce in tobacco BY-2 cells. This provides a likely explanation for the frequent instability of secreted recombinant biopharmaceuticals produced in plant suspension cell cultures. Our data suggest new avenues that can be explored to improve the production of pharmaceutical proteins in plants and plant cells.

Ectopic Overexpression of a Novel R2R3-MYB, NtMYB2 from Chinese Narcissus Represses Anthocyanin Biosynthesis in Tobacco

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Muhammad Anwar

2018-03-01

Full Text Available R2R3 MYB transcription factors play key functions in the regulation of secondary metabolites. In the present study, a R2R3 MYB transcriptional factor NtMYB2 was identified from Chinese narcissus (Narcissus tazetta L. var. Chinensis Roem and functionally characterized. NtMYB2 belongs to subgroup 4 of the R2R3 MYB transcription factor family that are related to repressor MYBs involved in the regulation of anthocyanin and flavonoids. Transient expression confirmed that NtMYB2 strongly reduced the red pigmentation induced by MYB- anthocyanin activators in agro-infiltrated tobacco leaves. Ectopic expression of NtMYB2 in tobacco significantly reduced the pigmentation and altered the floral phenotypes in transgenic tobacco flowers. Gene expression analysis suggested that NtMYB2 repressed the transcript levels of structural genes involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis pathway, especially the UFGT gene. NtMYB2 gene is expressed in all examined narcissus tissues; the levels of transcription in petals and corona is higher than other tissues and the transcription level at the bud stage was highest. These results show that NtMYB2 is involved in the regulation of anthocyanin biosynthesis pathway and may act as a repressor by down regulating the transcripts of key enzyme genes in Chinese narcissus.

Ectopic Overexpression of a Novel R2R3-MYB, NtMYB2 from Chinese Narcissus Represses Anthocyanin Biosynthesis in Tobacco.

Science.gov (United States)

Anwar, Muhammad; Wang, Guiqing; Wu, Jiacheng; Waheed, Saquib; Allan, Andrew C; Zeng, Lihui

2018-03-28

R2R3 MYB transcription factors play key functions in the regulation of secondary metabolites. In the present study, a R2R3 MYB transcriptional factor NtMYB2 was identified from Chinese narcissus ( Narcissus tazetta L. var. Chinensis Roem) and functionally characterized. NtMYB2 belongs to subgroup 4 of the R2R3 MYB transcription factor family that are related to repressor MYBs involved in the regulation of anthocyanin and flavonoids. Transient expression confirmed that NtMYB2 strongly reduced the red pigmentation induced by MYB- anthocyanin activators in agro-infiltrated tobacco leaves. Ectopic expression of NtMYB2 in tobacco significantly reduced the pigmentation and altered the floral phenotypes in transgenic tobacco flowers. Gene expression analysis suggested that NtMYB2 repressed the transcript levels of structural genes involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis pathway, especially the UFGT gene. NtMYB2 gene is expressed in all examined narcissus tissues; the levels of transcription in petals and corona is higher than other tissues and the transcription level at the bud stage was highest. These results show that NtMYB2 is involved in the regulation of anthocyanin biosynthesis pathway and may act as a repressor by down regulating the transcripts of key enzyme genes in Chinese narcissus.

ARGOS-NT: A computer based emergency management system

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hoe, S.; Thykier-Nielsen, S.; Steffensen, L.B.

2000-01-01

In case of a nuclear accident or a threat of a release the Danish Emergency Management Agency is responsible for actions to minimize the consequences in Danish territory. To provide an overview of the situation, a computer based system called ARGOS-NT has been developed in 1993/94. This paper gives an overview of the system with emphasis on the prognostic part of the system. An example calculation shows the importance of correct landscape modeling. (author)

Phosphatidylinositol (4,5)bisphosphate inhibits K+-efflux channel activity in NT1 tobacco cultured cells.

Science.gov (United States)

Ma, Xiaohong; Shor, Oded; Diminshtein, Sofia; Yu, Ling; Im, Yang Ju; Perera, Imara; Lomax, Aaron; Boss, Wendy F; Moran, Nava

2009-02-01

In the animal world, the regulation of ion channels by phosphoinositides (PIs) has been investigated extensively, demonstrating a wide range of channels controlled by phosphatidylinositol (4,5)bisphosphate (PtdInsP2). To understand PI regulation of plant ion channels, we examined the in planta effect of PtdInsP2 on the K+-efflux channel of tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum), NtORK (outward-rectifying K channel). We applied a patch clamp in the whole-cell configuration (with fixed "cytosolic" Ca2+ concentration and pH) to protoplasts isolated from cultured tobacco cells with genetically manipulated plasma membrane levels of PtdInsP2 and cellular inositol (1,4,5)trisphosphate: "Low PIs" had depressed levels of these PIs, and "High PIs" had elevated levels relative to controls. In all of these cells, K channel activity, reflected in the net, steady-state outward K+ currents (IK), was inversely related to the plasma membrane PtdInsP2 level. Consistent with this, short-term manipulations decreasing PtdInsP2 levels in the High PIs, such as pretreatment with the phytohormone abscisic acid (25 microM) or neutralizing the bath solution from pH 5.6 to pH 7, increased IK (i.e. NtORK activity). Moreover, increasing PtdInsP2 levels in controls or in abscisic acid-treated high-PI cells, using the specific PI-phospholipase C inhibitor U73122 (2.5-4 microM), decreased NtORK activity. In all cases, IK decreases stemmed largely from decreased maximum attainable NtORK channel conductance and partly from shifted voltage dependence of channel gating to more positive potentials, making it more difficult to activate the channels. These results are consistent with NtORK inhibition by the negatively charged PtdInsP2 in the internal plasma membrane leaflet. Such effects are likely to underlie PI signaling in intact plant cells.

Dicer-like 3 produces transposable element-associated 24-nt siRNAs that control agricultural traits in rice

Science.gov (United States)

Wei, Liya; Gu, Lianfeng; Song, Xianwei; Cui, Xiekui; Lu, Zhike; Zhou, Ming; Wang, Lulu; Hu, Fengyi; Zhai, Jixian; Meyers, Blake C.; Cao, Xiaofeng

2014-01-01

Transposable elements (TEs) and repetitive sequences make up over 35% of the rice (Oryza sativa) genome. The host regulates the activity of different TEs by different epigenetic mechanisms, including DNA methylation, histone H3K9 methylation, and histone H3K4 demethylation. TEs can also affect the expression of host genes. For example, miniature inverted repeat TEs (MITEs), dispersed high copy-number DNA TEs, can influence the expression of nearby genes. In plants, 24-nt small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) are mainly derived from repeats and TEs. However, the extent to which TEs, particularly MITEs associated with 24-nt siRNAs, affect gene expression remains elusive. Here, we show that the rice Dicer-like 3 homolog OsDCL3a is primarily responsible for 24-nt siRNA processing. Impairing OsDCL3a expression by RNA interference caused phenotypes affecting important agricultural traits; these phenotypes include dwarfism, larger flag leaf angle, and fewer secondary branches. We used small RNA deep sequencing to identify 535,054 24-nt siRNA clusters. Of these clusters, ∼82% were OsDCL3a-dependent and showed significant enrichment of MITEs. Reduction of OsDCL3a function reduced the 24-nt siRNAs predominantly from MITEs and elevated expression of nearby genes. OsDCL3a directly targets genes involved in gibberellin and brassinosteroid homeostasis; OsDCL3a deficiency may affect these genes, thus causing the phenotypes of dwarfism and enlarged flag leaf angle. Our work identifies OsDCL3a-dependent 24-nt siRNAs derived from MITEs as broadly functioning regulators for fine-tuning gene expression, which may reflect a conserved epigenetic mechanism in higher plants with genomes rich in dispersed repeats or TEs. PMID:24554078

Clinical Significance of Determination of the Serum Levels of NT-proBNP and hs-CRP in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zheng Zhaojun; Zheng Jing; Sun Weili; Yuan Yuan; Tao Jian; Li Weipeng

2010-01-01

To explore the clinical significance the serum levels of N-Terminal proB-Type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) in patients with acute coronary syndrome,the serum levels of NT-proBNP and hs-CRP in patients and normal controls were determined by ECi Immunity Analyzer and radioimmunoassay respectively. The results showed that the serum levels of NT-proBNP and hs-CRP in patients with acute coronary syndrome were significantly higher than that of controls (P<0.05). The diagnostic specificity for acute coronary syndrome was 100% by combined detection of NT-proBNP and hs-CRP. The results suggest that the combined detection of serum NT-proBNP and hs-CRP levels are very important to evaluate heart function in patients with acute coronary syndrome. (authors)

The NT-ProBNP Test in Subjects with End-Stage Renal Disease on Hemodialysis Presenting with Acute Dyspnea: Is Knowing Worth the Cost?

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Shaffer R. S. Mok

2013-01-01

Full Text Available Background. The NT-ProBNP/BNP test has been validated as a marker for determining the etiology of acute dyspnea. In the setting of end-stage renal disease on hemodialysis (ESRD on HD, the utility of the NT-ProBNP/BNP test has not been validated. This study examines the clinical utility of the NT-ProBNP test in the setting of ESRD on HD patients presenting with acute dyspnea. Methods. A retrospective case series of 250 subjects were admitted to Cooper University Hospital, 07/2010-03/2011, with ESRD and HD presenting with dyspnea. The incidences of echocardiography, cardiology consultation, and NT-ProBNP elevated and normal were examined. Correlation coefficients were calculated for NT-ProBNP with age (years, estimated dry weight (kg, amount of fluid removed (L, and ejection fraction (EF in % among other echocardiography parameters. Results. Of the total sample 235 patients had NT-ProBNP levels performed. Cardiology consults were placed in 68.8% and 58% who underwent echocardiography. Of those for whom an echocardiography was performed estimated mean EFs of 54.6%, 50.8%, and 61.7% were observed among the NT-ProBNP elevated group, normal group, and no NT-ProBNP group, respectively. No differences were detected in all other echocardiography measurements. No correlation was observed between NT-ProBNP and age (, baseline EDW (, amount of fluid removed (, or EF (. Conclusion. In the setting of ESRD on HD, the NT-ProBNP test has no clinical utility in determining the etiology of acute dyspnea. This can be demonstrated through echocardiographic and therapeutic parameters measured in this study.

Mortality and preoperative cardiac function in vascular amputees: an N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) pilot study

OpenAIRE

Riemersma, Marcel; Dijkstra, Pieter U.; van Veldhuisen, Dirk Jan; Muskiet, Frits A. J.; van den Dungen, Jan A. M. M.; Geertzen, Jan H. B.

2008-01-01

Objective: To determine preoperative ventricular function in vascular amputees by measuring N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and to analyse the relationship between NT-proBNP levels and 30-day postoperative mortality. Design: Prospective pilot study. Subjects and methods: In 19 patients planned for a lower limb amputation for nonreconstructable peripheral arterial disease NT-proBNP was measured the day before amputation. Results: Four amputees died within 30 days after the...

Troponin T and NT ProBNP Levels in Gestational, Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetic Mothers and Macrosomic Infants.

Science.gov (United States)

Mert, Mustafa Kurthan; Satar, Mehmet; Özbarlas, Nazan; Yaman, Akgün; Özgünen, Fatma Tuncay; Asker, Hüseyin Selim; Çekinmez, Eren Kale; Tetiker, Tamer

2016-01-01

This study compares NT proBNP and troponin T levels in umbilical cord arterial blood and postnatal echocardiographic findings for infants of gestational and pregestational diabetic mothers and macrosomic infants. Twenty-seven infants of pregestational diabetic mothers, 61 infants of gestational diabetic mothers and 37 macrosomic infants of nondiabetic mothers were prospectively enrolled in this study along with a control group of 58 healthy infants of mothers without any pregestational or gestational disorders as the control group. All enrollees were born after 34 weeks of gestation. For this study, umbilical cord blood was drawn during delivery to determine NT proBNP and troponin T levels. Echocardiography was performed 24-72 h after the delivery. Umbilical cord troponin T and NT proBNP levels were found to be higher in the diabetic and macrosomic groups than in the control group (all of them p gestational infants of diabetic mothers groups (r = 0.564 and r = 0.560, respectively, p gestational diabetic mothers were divided into two groups according to HbA1c levels in the third trimester as good (6.1 %) metabolic control. In the good and suboptimal metabolic control diabetic groups, NT proBNP levels were also positively correlated with interventricular septum thickness (r = 0.536 and r = 0.576, respectively, p mothers and the control group, the myocardial performance index of macrosomic infants was lower than that of the control group (p = 0.017). Cardiac biomarkers (NT proBNP and troponin T) were elevated in infants of diabetic mothers and macrosomic infants. While there was a positive correlation between NT proBNP levels and cardiac structure in infants of pregestational and gestational diabetic mothers, there was no relationship between NT proBNP levels and cardiac function.

Eihän "leikkitäti" voi väsyä, vai voiko? : Käytännön olosuhteet ja työstä aiheutuva stressi musiikkileikkikoulunopettajan työssä

OpenAIRE

Busk, Vilma

2012-01-01

TIIVISTELMÄ Tässä opinnäytetyössä tarkastellaan musiikkileikkikoulunopettajan työtä ja sen haasteita. Keskiössä ovat työn käytännön olosuhteet ja työstä aiheutuva stressi. Opinnäytetyötäni varten tein kyselytutkimuksen, jonka toteutin Internet-kyselynä Facebookissa, Muskari-ideoita-sivustolla. Kyselyyn vastasi 48 musiikkileikkikoulunopettajaa, joilla oli vaihteleva määrä kokemusta ja jotka olivat iältään 21—50-vuotiaita. Vastaajien taustatietojen lisäksi kartoitin mahdollisimman mon...

Genetic transformation of tobacco NT1 cells with Agrobacterium tumefaciens.

Science.gov (United States)

Mayo, Kristin J; Gonzales, Barbara J; Mason, Hugh S

2006-01-01

This protocol is used to produce stably transformed tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) NT1 cell lines, using Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated DNA delivery of a binary vector containing a gene encoding hepatitis B surface antigen and a gene encoding the kanamycin selection marker. The NT1 cultures, at the appropriate stage of growth, are inoculated with A. tumefaciens containing the binary vector. A 3-day cocultivation period follows, after which the cultures are rinsed and placed on solid selective medium. Transformed colonies ('calli') appear in approximately 4 weeks; they are subcultured until adequate material is obtained for analysis of antigen production. 'Elite' lines are selected based on antigen expression and growth characteristics. The time required for the procedure from preparation of the plant cell materials to callus development is approximately 5 weeks. Growth of selected calli to sufficient quantities for antigen screening may require 4-6 weeks beyond the initial selection. Creation of the plasmid constructs, transformation of the A. tumefaciens line, and ELISA and Bradford assays to assess protein production require additional time.

Quantifying the evidence for dark matter in CoGeNT data

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Davis, Jonathan H.; McCabe, Christopher; Boehm, Céline

2014-01-01

We perform an independent analysis of data from the CoGeNT direct detection experiment to quantify the evidence for dark matter recoils. We critically re-examine the assumptions that enter the analysis, focusing specifically on the separation of bulk and surface events, the latter of which constitute a large background. This separation is performed using the event rise-time, with the surface events being slower on average. We fit the rise-time distributions for the bulk and surface events with a log-normal and Pareto distribution (which gives a better fit to the tail in the bulk population at high rise-times) and account for the energy-dependence of the bulk fraction using a cubic spline. Using Bayesian and frequentist techniques and additionally investigating the effect of varying the rise-time cut, the bulk background spectrum and bin-sizes, we conclude that the CoGeNT data show a preference for light dark matter recoils at less than 1σ

The NtAMI1 gene functions in cell division of tobacco BY-2 cells in the presence of indole-3-acetamide.

Science.gov (United States)

Nemoto, Keiichirou; Hara, Masamitsu; Suzuki, Masashi; Seki, Hikaru; Muranaka, Toshiya; Mano, Yoshihiro

2009-01-22

Tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) Bright Yellow-2 (BY-2) cells can be grown in medium containing indole-3-acetamide (IAM). Based on this finding, the NtAMI1 gene, whose product is functionally equivalent to the AtAMI1 gene of Arabidopsis thaliana and the aux2 gene of Agrobacterium rhizogenes, was isolated from BY-2 cells. Overexpression of the NtAMI1 gene allowed BY-2 cells to proliferate at lower concentrations of IAM, whereas suppression of the NtAMI1 gene by RNA interference (RNAi) caused severe growth inhibition in the medium containing IAM. These results suggest that IAM is incorporated into plant cells and converted to the auxin, indole-3-acetic acid, by NtAMI1.

Työelämäkokemuksen hyödyntäminen koulutuksessa : Ammatillisen opettajankoulutuksen, palveluliiketoiminnan ja terveyden edistämisen koulutusohjelmien ristiinarviointiraportit

OpenAIRE

2010-01-01

Jyväskylän ammattikorkeakoulun (JAMK) laadunvarmistusjärjestelmään kuuluu yhtenä tärkeänä osana koulutusohjelmien ristiinarviointi, jossa hyödynnetään eri alojen asiantuntemusta koulutuksen kehitystyössä. Jokaista arviointia varten kootaan monialainen arviointiryhmä, joka laatii myös julkaistavan raportin tekemästään arvioinnista. Näin ristiinarviointi on myös sisäinen yhteisöllinen oppimismenetelmä, jossa hyviä käytäntöjä ja kehittämisvirikkeitä siirtyy yhteiseen käyttöön. ...

FC Kliini RY:n Kesäpäivien suunnittelu ja järjestäminen

OpenAIRE

Narmala, Kalle

2012-01-01

Opinnäytetyön aiheena oli suunnitella ja järjestää FC Kliini ry:n Kesäpäivät. Tapahtuma suunniteltiin yhdistyksen puheenjohtaja Antti Niemisen toimeksiannon mukaan. Kesäpäivien suunnittelu alkoi maaliskuussa 2012, jolloin sen ajankohdaksi päätettiin 17.-19.8.2012. Tapahtuma järjestettiin loppukesästä, jotta kaikki yhdistyksen jäsenet voisivat ottaa osaa tapahtumaan. Opinnäytetyö suoritettiin toiminnallisena, jossa yhdistyy käytäntö sekä teoria. FC Kliini ry on jo kauan suunnitellut virkist...

Sisäänostajan eettiset kysymykset

OpenAIRE

Malinen, Mirka

2010-01-01

Tämä opinnäytetyö käsittelee vastuullista hankintaa suomalaisissa yrityksissä. Tutkimuskysymys on, millä tavalla yrityksen eettiset arvot vaikuttavat sisäänostajan tai maahantuojan työhön, kun he tekevät hankintoja maista, joissa lainsäädäntö ei täytä kansainvälisiä eettisyyden vähimmäisvaatimuksia. Aihe on siis rajattu riskimaista tehtävään ostotoimintaan. Hankintojen eettisyyteen liittyy sosiaalisen ja ekologisen vastuun näkökulma. Sosiaalinen vastuu käsittää tuotantolaitoksen työntekijöide...

Avoimen lähdekoodin HA-tietokannat

OpenAIRE

Vartio, Sami

2014-01-01

Insinöörityössä perehdyttiin avoimen lähdekoodin periaatteisiin ja lisenssimalleihin sekä huomioitiin liiketaloudelliset lähtökohdat. Tavoitteena oli tutustua järjestelmän saatavuuteen sekä klusteroinnin periaatteisiin. Järjestelmän saatavuus (HA) on tietojärjestelmien suunnittelussa käytettävä käytäntö, joka pyrkii siihen että järjestelmä on aina käyttäjän käytettävissä. Aluksi käsiteltiin perustietoja sekä teoriaa. Tutkimuksen edetessä paneuduttiin laajemmin yleisimpiin avoimen lähdeko...

Verkkosivuston käytettävyys : case: Tmi Niina Virtanen

OpenAIRE

Virtanen, Antti

2016-01-01

Tämän opinnäytetyön tarkoituksena oli toteuttaa responsiiviset verkkosivut case yritykselle, sekä samalla tehdä niistä käytettävyys- ja responsiivisuustutkimus. Sivuston responsiivisuutta testattiin tietokoneella, tabletilla ja puhelimella. Testauslaitteina toimivat Lenovo Ideapad Y510P, Huawei T1 ja OnePlus 3. Opinnäytetyössä perehdytään käytettävyyden teoriaan, siihen mitä se on, miten sitä voi hyödyntää ja miten sitä voi parantaa. Responsiivisuuden teoriaa ja käytäntöä on myös esitelty...

Going to Busan-Blogiopas

OpenAIRE

Tolvanen, Henna

2016-01-01

Tämän toiminnallisen opinnäytetyön tarkoituksena oli perustaa verkkoon blogimuotoinen opas Etelä-Korean Busanista. Oppaan tavoitteena oli antaa käytännön informaatiota Busaniin matkaaville reppureissaajille. Opas käsittelee ruokia, majoittumista, nähtävyyksiä sekä matkustamista maan sisällä ja se antaa hyödyllisiä vinkkejä. Opinnäytetyön teoriaosuudessa käsitellään toiminnallisen opinnäytetyön lisäksi matkailun työntö- ja vetovoimatekijöitä, Busanin vetovoimatekijöitä, reppureissausta ja...

Ositus- ja perintösaanto : luovutusvoittoverokiemuroineen

OpenAIRE

Kaisla, Irma

2008-01-01

Opinnäytetyössä on selkeytetty kuolinpesien luovutusvoittojen verotuskäytäntöjä erilaisissa tilanteissa. On tarkasteltu ja pohdittu ositusta ja perinnönjakoa peilaten niiden tekemistä tai tekemättä jättämistä luovutusvoittoverotukseen. Osituksen ja perinnönjaon ajankohdalla on myös merkitystä luovutusvoiton suuruuteen ja siitä syntyvän veron määrään. Ositus on aina tehtävä ennen perinnönjakoa. Lesken osakkuusasema kuolinpesässä lakkaa kun ositus on toimitettu. Osituksen jälkeen perillise...

Siisteyden kehittäminen Rauten tehtaalla

OpenAIRE

Mikkonen, Jali

2015-01-01

Tämän työn tavoitteena oli kehittää Raute Oyj:n Nastolan tehtaan siisteyttä. Työn tilaaja oli nähnyt tarpeelliseksi nostaa tehtaan siisteyttä, joka parantaa työturvallisuutta ja työviihtyvyyttä ja välillisesti työn tuottavuutta ja laatua. Tehtaalle kehitettiin siisteystarkastuskäytäntö, minkä perusteella jokaiselle työhallille määritellään siisteysindeksi, joka lasketaan hallille työpisteiden keskiarvona. Siisteysindeksillä pyritään motivoimaan työntekijöitä siisteyden ylläpitämiseen ja ...

Ruling out cardiac failure: Cost-benefit analysis of a sequential testing strategy with NT-proBNP before echocardiography

Science.gov (United States)

Ferrandis, Maria-José; Ryden, Ingvar; Lindahl, Tomas L.

2013-01-01

Objectives To estimate the possible economic benefit of a sequential testing strategy with NT-proBNP to reduce the number of echocardiographies. Methods Retrospective study in a third-party payer perspective. The costs were calculated from three Swedish counties: Blekinge, Östergötland, and Uppland. Two cut-off levels of NT-proBNP were used: 400 and 300 pg/mL. The cost-effectiveness of the testing strategy was estimated through the short-term cost avoidance and reduction in demand for echocardiographies. Results The estimated costs for NT-proBNP tests and echocardiographies per county were reduced by 33%–36% with the 400 pg/mL cut-off and by 28%–29% with the 300 pg/mL cut-off. This corresponded to a yearly cost reduction of approximately €2–5 million per million inhabitants in these counties. Conclusion The use of NT-proBNP as a screening test could substantially reduce the number of echocardiographies in the diagnostic work-up of patients with suspected cardiac failure, as well as the associated costs. PMID:23230860

The value of T/NT in FDG imaging with a coincidence camera for diagnosis of pulmonary nodules and mass lesions

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sun Da; Zhan Hongwei; Xu Wei; Ye Xiaojuan; Liu Qichang

2004-01-01

Objectives: To assess the value of T/NT in FDG imaging with a coincidence camera for diagnosis of pulmonary nodules and mass lesions. Methods: 18F-FDG imaging were performed in 57 patients with a mean age of 62.18 (range from 33 83 years old) for diagnosis of pulmonary nodules and mass lesions using a gamma camera with 1 inch crystal in coincidence mode (Siemens E.comduet). 175 296 MBq (5 8 mci) of 18F-FDG was given by iv on an empty stomach at least for 6 hours, and a whole body imaging without brain and legs was performed after 40 60 minutes. The count rate of target ROI and no-target ROI (T/NT) were calculated as a semiquantative analysis to differentiate malignant from inflammatory lesions. The result was compared with CT, MRI, and/or pathology. Results: The mean value of T/NT in malignant lesions (N=45) in lungs is 4.32 (range 1.61 10.62). But it is 1.52 (range 1.37 1.95) in inflammatory lesions (N=17) in lungs, and 4.09 (range 2.2 7.01) in lung tuberculosis lesions (N=5). In 45 malignant, the value of T/NT is less than 2.0 in only 3 lesions. So the overlapping of T/NT value is very little between malignant and inflammatory lesions. But there is full overlapping of T/NT value between malignant and tuberculosis lesions. Conclusions: Focal pulmonary nodules and mass lesions are commonly encountered in clinical practice, and PET with 18F-FDG has proved to be an accurate noninvasive test for identifying pulmonary malignant lesions. The technique of semiquantity with T/NT is useful to differentiate malignant from inflammatory lesions. But it is invalidate for distinguishing malignant from tuberculosis lesions. (authors)

NT-proBNP and Circulating Inflammation Markers in Prediction of a Normal Myocardial Scintigraphy in Patients with Symptoms of Coronary Artery Disease

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Rathcke, C.N.; Kjøller, Erik; Fogh-Andersen, N.

2010-01-01

with an intermediate risk of CAD or with known CAD with renewed suspicion of ischemia were referred to MPI. Blood samples were analyzed for N-terminal fragment of the prohormone brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), YKL-40, IL-6, matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) and high sensitive C-reactive protein (hs......CRP). Patients with myocardial perfusion defects had elevated levels of NT-proBNP (p95% regardless of existing CAD. Conclusions: 20-25% of patients suspected of CAD could have been spared a MPI by using a NT-proBNP cut-off concentration at 25 ng/l with a negative predictive value >95%. NT-proBNP has...

Elevated NT-proBNP is associated with unfavorably altered plasma fibrin clot properties in atrial fibrillation.

Science.gov (United States)

Matusik, Paweł T; Matusik, Patrycja S; Kornacewicz-Jach, Zdzisława; Małecka, Barbara; Ząbek, Andrzej; Undas, Anetta

2017-09-15

Dense fibrin clot formation and hypofibrinolysis have been reported in atrial fibrillation (AF). It is unclear which factors affect fibrin clot properties in AF. We investigated plasma fibrin clot permeability (K s ), clot lysis time (CLT), endogenous thrombin potential (ETP) as well as other coagulation and fibrinolysis parameters along with N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) in 160 AF patients (median age, 70.5years). Previous stroke (n=15; 9.4%) was associated with decreased K s (P=0.04) and longer CLT (P=0.005), together with higher antiplasmin (P=0.03) and lower tissue-type plasminogen activator (P=0.01). Lower K s (P=0.04) and tendency towards longer CLT (P=0.10) were observed in patients with a left atrium diameter>40mm. Patients with a CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc score of 3 or more (82.5%) were characterized by higher thrombin-activatable fibrinolysis inhibitor antigen (P=0.009). K s was inversely correlated with log NT-proBNP (r=-0.34, PCLT was positively correlated with log NT-proBNP (R=0.61, PCLT (the top quartile,≥109min). In AF patients prothrombotic fibrin clot properties assessed ex vivo are determined by PAI-1 and NT-proBNP and this phenotype is associated with prior ischemic stroke. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Role of disulphide bonds in a thermophilic serine protease aqualysin I from Thermus aquaticus YT-1.

Science.gov (United States)

Sakaguchi, Masayoshi; Takezawa, Makoto; Nakazawa, Rie; Nozawa, Kazutaka; Kusakawa, Taro; Nagasawa, Takeshi; Sugahara, Yasusato; Kawakita, Masao

2008-05-01

A thermophilic serine protease, Aqualysin I, from Thermus aquaticus YT-1 has two disulphide bonds, which are also found in a psychrophilic serine protease from Vibrio sp. PA-44 and a proteinase K-like enzyme from Serratia sp. at corresponding positions. To understand the significance of these disulphide bonds in aqualysin I, we prepared mutants C99S, C194S and C99S/C194S (WSS), in which Cys69-Cys99, Cys163-Cys194 and both of these disulphide bonds, respectively, were disrupted by replacing Cys residues with Ser residues. All mutants were expressed stably in Escherichia coli. The C99S mutant was 68% as active as the wild-type enzyme at 40 degrees C in terms of k(cat) value, while C194S and WSS were only 6 and 3%, respectively, as active, indicating that disulphide bond Cys163-Cys194 is critically important for maintaining proper catalytic site conformation. Mutants C194S and WSS were less thermostable than wild-type enzyme, with a half-life at 90 degrees C of 10 min as compared to 45 min of the latter and with transition temperatures on differential scanning calorimetry of 86.7 degrees C and 86.9 degrees C, respectively. Mutant C99S was almost as stable as the wild-type aqualysin I. These results indicate that the disulphide bond Cys163-Cys194 is more important for catalytic activity and conformational stability of aqualysin I than Cys67-Cys99.

Identification of fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (FGFR3 as a protein receptor for botulinum neurotoxin serotype A (BoNT/A.

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Birgitte P S Jacky

Full Text Available Botulinum neurotoxin serotype A (BoNT/A causes transient muscle paralysis by entering motor nerve terminals (MNTs where it cleaves the SNARE protein Synaptosomal-associated protein 25 (SNAP25206 to yield SNAP25197. Cleavage of SNAP25 results in blockage of synaptic vesicle fusion and inhibition of the release of acetylcholine. The specific uptake of BoNT/A into pre-synaptic nerve terminals is a tightly controlled multistep process, involving a combination of high and low affinity receptors. Interestingly, the C-terminal binding domain region of BoNT/A, HC/A, is homologous to fibroblast growth factors (FGFs, making it a possible ligand for Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptors (FGFRs. Here we present data supporting the identification of Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor 3 (FGFR3 as a high affinity receptor for BoNT/A in neuronal cells. HC/A binds with high affinity to the two extra-cellular loops of FGFR3 and acts similar to an agonist ligand for FGFR3, resulting in phosphorylation of the receptor. Native ligands for FGFR3; FGF1, FGF2, and FGF9 compete for binding to FGFR3 and block BoNT/A cellular uptake. These findings show that FGFR3 plays a pivotal role in the specific uptake of BoNT/A across the cell membrane being part of a larger receptor complex involving ganglioside- and protein-protein interactions.

Is there an additional benefit of serial NT-proBNP measurements in patients with stable chronic heart failure receiving individually optimized therapy?

Science.gov (United States)

Franke, Jennifer; Frankenstein, Lutz; Schellberg, Dieter; Bajrovic, Amer; Wolter, Jan Sebastian; Ehlermann, Philipp; Doesch, Andreas O; Nelles, Manfred; Katus, Hugo A; Zugck, Christian

2011-12-01

The role of serial NT-proBNP measurements in patients suffering from chronic systolic heart failure (CHF) who already receive individually optimized pharmacotherapy is still unresolved. NT-proBNP was assessed at baseline and at 6 months follow-up in 504 stable CHF patients treated with individually optimized pharmacotherapy. After assessment of clinical stability at 6 months, patients were followed up for at least 1 year. The combined primary endpoint was defined as death, hospitalization due to cardiac reasons or heart transplantation in 1-year follow-up. We stratified our patients according to two principles: first, a percent change of value (CV) between the first and second measurement of NT-proBNP and secondly, the transformed logarithm of NT-proBNP measured at 6 months. During the follow-up period of 1 year, 50 patients (9.9%) reached the combined primary endpoint. Stratification according to percentage CV was less accurate in predicting endpoint-free survival compared to a classification in categories of lnNT-proBNP measured at 6 months (ROC AUC = 0.615; 95% CI 0.525-0.70 vs. ROC AUC = 0.790; 95% CI 0.721-0.856, respectively). When entered into proportional hazard regression analysis, lnNT-proBNP measured at 6 months remained an independent predictor of the combined primary endpoint with an associated HR of 2.53 (95% CI 1.385-4.280). To date, this is the largest analysis of serial NT-proBNP measurements in patients with CHF receiving individually optimized medical therapy. These data suggest that a single NT-proBNP measurement after 6 months in stable clinical conditions may have higher predictive value than stratification of change in serial measurements.

NT-pro-BNP levels in patients with acute pulmonary embolism are correlated to right but not left ventricular volume and function.

Science.gov (United States)

Pasha, Sharif M; Klok, Frederikus A; van der Bijl, Noortje; de Roos, Albert; Kroft, Lucia J M; Huisman, Menno V

2012-08-01

N-terminal pro-Brain Natriuretic Peptide (NT-pro-BNP) is primarily secreted by left ventricular (LV) stretch and wall tension. Notably, NT-pro-BNP is a prognostic marker in acute pulmonary embolism (PE), which primarily stresses the right ventricle (RV). We sought to evaluate the relative contribution of the RV to NT-pro-BNP levels during PE. A post-hoc analysis of an observational prospective outcome study in 113 consecutive patients with computed tomography (CT)-proven PE and 226 patients in whom PE was clinically suspected but ruled out by CT. In all patients RV and LV function was established by assessing ECG-triggered-CT measured ventricular end-diastolic-volumes and ejection fraction (EF). NT-pro-BNP was assessed in all patients. The correlation between RV and LV end-diastolic-volumes and systolic function was evaluated by multiple linear regression corrected for known confounders. In the PE cohort increased RVEF (β-coefficient (95% confidence interval [CI]) -0.044 (± -0.011); p<0.001) and higher RV end-diastolic-volume (β-coefficient 0.005 (± 0.001); p<0.001) were significantly correlated to NT-pro-BNP, while no correlation was found with LVEF (β-coefficient 0.005 (± 0.010); p=0.587) and LV end-diastolic-volume (β-coefficient -0.003 (± 0.002); p=0.074). In control patients without PE we found a strong correlation between NT-pro-BNP levels and LVEF (β-coefficient -0.027 (± -0.006); p<0.001) although not LV end-diastolic-volume (β-coefficient 0.001 (± 0.001); p=0.418). RVEF (β-coefficient -0.002 (± -0.006); p=0.802) and RV end-diastolic-volume (β-coefficient <0.001 (± 0.001); p=0.730) were not correlated in patients without PE. In PE patients, lower RVEF and higher RV end-diastolic-volume were significantly correlated to NT-pro-BNP levels as compared to control patients without PE. These observations provide pathophysiological ground for the well-known prognostic value of NT-pro-BNP in acute PE.

TiO2-NT electrodes modified with Ag and diamond like carbon (DLC) for hydrogen production by alkaline water electrolysis

Science.gov (United States)

Baran, Evrim; Baz, Zeynep; Esen, Ramazan; Yazici Devrim, Birgül

2017-10-01

In present work, the two-step anodization technique was applied for synthesis of TiO2 nanotube (NT). Silver and diamond like carbon (DLC) were coated on the surface of as prepared TiO2-NT using chemical reduction method and MW ECR plasma system. The morphology, composition and structure of the electrodes were examined by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results showed that Ag nanoparticles, having size in the range of 48-115 nm, are evenly distributed on the top, inside and outside surface of TiO2-NT and when DLC was coated on the surface of TiO2-NT and TiO2-NT-Ag, the top of nanotubes were partially open and the pore diameter of hexagonal structure decreased from 165 nm to of 38-80 nm. On the other hand, the microhardness test and contact angle measurements revealed that additions of Ag and diamond like carbon have a positive effect on the mechanical properties of TiO2-NT film. The electrocatalytic properties of the electrodes towards the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) were investigated by the electrochemical measurements recorded in 1 M KOH solution. In addition, long-term durability of electrodes towards HER and the energy consumption of alkaline electrolysis were investigated. The energy requirement showed that while the deposition of silver provides approximately 14.95% savings of the energy consumption, the DLC coating causes increase in energy consumption.

Extraction and inhibition of enzymatic activity of botulinum neurotoxins/A1, /A2, and /A3 by a panel of monoclonal anti-BoNT/A antibodies.

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Suzanne R Kalb

Full Text Available Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs are extremely potent toxins that are capable of causing death or respiratory failure leading to long-term intensive care. Treatment includes serotype-specific antitoxins, which must be administered early in the course of the intoxication. Rapidly determining human exposure to BoNT is an important public health goal. In previous work, our laboratory focused on developing Endopep-MS, a mass spectrometry-based endopeptidase method for detecting and differentiating BoNT/A-G serotypes in buffer and BoNT/A, /B, /E, and /F in clinical samples. We have previously reported the effectiveness of antibody-capture to purify and concentrate BoNTs from complex matrices, such as clinical samples. Because some antibodies inhibit or neutralize the activity of BoNT, the choice of antibody with which to extract the toxin is critical. In this work, we evaluated a panel of 16 anti-BoNT/A monoclonal antibodies (mAbs for their ability to inhibit the in vitro activity of BoNT/A1, /A2, and /A3 complex as well as the recombinant LC of A1. We also evaluated the same antibody panel for the ability to extract BoNT/A1, /A2, and /A3. Among the mAbs, there were significant differences in extraction efficiency, ability to extract BoNT/A subtypes, and inhibitory effect on BoNT catalytic activity. The mAbs binding the C-terminal portion of the BoNT/A heavy chain had optimal properties for use in the Endopep-MS assay.

Is N.D. and N.T. v. Spain the new Hirsi?

NARCIS (Netherlands)

Pijnenburg, Annick

2017-01-01

On 3 October the Third Chamber of the European Court of Human Rights published its judgment N.D. and N.T. v. Spain, which concerns Spain’s pushback policy in Melilla. It found a violation of Article 4 of Protocol 4 (prohibition of collective expulsions of aliens) and of Article 13 (right to an

Mortality and preoperative cardiac function in vascular amputees : an N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) pilot study

NARCIS (Netherlands)

Riemersma, Marcel; Dijkstra, Pieter U.; van Veldhuisen, Dirk Jan; Muskiet, Frits A. J.; van den Dungen, Jan A. M. M.; Geertzen, Jan H. B.

Objective: To determine preoperative ventricular function in vascular amputees by measuring N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and to analyse the relationship between NT-proBNP levels and 30-day postoperative mortality. Design: Prospective pilot study. Subjects and methods: In 19

Grønt regnskab for boligområder

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Jensen, O.M.

Grønne regnskaber har vundet indpas i virksomheder, kommuner og boligområder. Med denne rapport foreligger der en model og en metode for opstilling af et grønt regnskab, der kan anvendes på alle typer af boliger, boligbebyggelser og boligområder. Et tilhørende regneark kan hjemtages på SBI´s hjem......´s hjemmeside 'www.sbi.dk', eller det kan opstilles ved hjælp af anvisningerne i rapporten. Rapporten henvender sig til alle, der arbejder med energiledelse, boligforvaltning, økologisk boligbyggeri, byfornyelse, miljødebat og Agenda 21-arbejde....

Diagnostic and prognostic value of N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) in patients with chronic aortic regurgitation.

Science.gov (United States)

Weber, Michael; Hausen, Michael; Arnold, Roman; Moellmann, Helge; Nef, Holger; Elsaesser, Albrecht; Mitrovic, Vesselin; Hamm, Christian

2008-07-21

BNP and its N-terminal fragment NT-proBNP have proven to be of diagnostic and prognostic value in patients with valvular aortic stenosis. Data regarding those biomarkers in patients with chronic aortic regurgitation (AR) are sparse. Thus it was the aim of the present study to evaluate the diagnostic and the long term prognostic value of NT-proBNP in patients presenting with AR. This study included 60 patients with isolated AR of varying severity (AR I mild, AR II moderate and AR III severe) and preserved left ventricular function. Patients were followed over a median period of 824 (770-921) days. NT-proBNP at baseline was related to disease severity and to functional status (161 (70-456) pg/ml in AR I, 226 (100-666) pg/ml in AR II and 1268 (522-5446) pg/ml in AR III (p=0.003)). Patients (n=6) experiencing an adverse event had higher NT-proBNP values at baseline as event free survivors (1271 (613-2992) pg/ml vs. 215 (92-534) pg/ml; p=0.034). The AUC of the ROC curve for NT-proBNP as a predictor for an adverse event was 0.76 (pvalue of 602 pg/ml. Consequently, in Kaplan-Meier analysis NT-proBNP values dichotomised at this cut-off were able to discriminate patients with an adverse outcome in the entire study group (Log rank 9.98, p=0.0016) and even better in the conservative group (Log rank 26.92, p<0.001). NT-proBNP is linked to disease severity in patients with chronic aortic regurgitation reflecting hemodynamic stress due to volume overload. It provides prognostic information for the clinical outcome and thus might be a useful biomarker for risk stratification.

Small-molecule quinolinol inhibitor identified provides protection against BoNT/A in mice.

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Padma Singh

Full Text Available Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs, etiological agents of the life threatening neuroparalytic disease botulism, are the most toxic substances currently known. The potential for the use as bioweapon makes the development of small-molecule inhibitor against these deadly toxins is a top priority. Currently, there are no approved pharmacological treatments for BoNT intoxication. Although an effective vaccine/immunotherapy is available for immuno-prophylaxis but this cannot reverse the effects of toxin inside neurons. A small-molecule pharmacological intervention, especially one that would be effective against the light chain protease, would be highly desirable. Similarity search was carried out from ChemBridge and NSC libraries to the hit (7-(phenyl(8-quinolinylaminomethyl-8-quinolinol; NSC 84096 to mine its analogs. Several hits obtained were screened for in silico inhibition using AutoDock 4.1 and 19 new molecules selected based on binding energy and Ki. Among these, eleven quinolinol derivatives potently inhibited in vitro endopeptidase activity of botulinum neurotoxin type A light chain (rBoNT/A-LC on synaptosomes isolated from rat brain which simulate the in vivo system. Five of these inhibitor molecules exhibited IC(50 values ranging from 3.0 nM to 10.0 µM. NSC 84087 is the most potent inhibitor reported so far, found to be a promising lead for therapeutic development, as it exhibits no toxicity, and is able to protect animals from pre and post challenge of botulinum neurotoxin type A (BoNT/A.

NT-pro-BNP is associated with inducible myocardial ischemia in mildly symptomatic type 2 diabetic patients.

Science.gov (United States)

Wiersma, Jacobijne J; van der Zee, P Marc; van Straalen, Jan P; Fischer, Johan C; van Eck-Smit, Berthe L F; Tijssen, Jan G P; Trip, Mieke D; Piek, Jan J; Verberne, Hein J

2010-11-19

Baseline levels of N-terminal fragment of the brain natriuretic peptide prohormone (NT-pro-BNP) are associated with myocardial ischemia in non-diabetic patients with stable angina pectoris. A total of 281 patients with diabetes mellitus type 2 and stable angina pectoris underwent myocardial perfusion scintigraphy (MPS). Myocardial ischemia on MPS was present in 140 (50%) patients. These ischemic patients had significantly higher NT-pro-BNP levels compared with patients without ischemia: 183 pg/ml (64-324 pg/ml) vs. 88 pg/ml (34-207 pg/ml), respectively (ppro-BNP ≥180 pg/ml was an independent predictor of the presence of myocardial ischemia (OR 2.36, 95%CI 1.40-3.97, p=0.001). Possible confounding factors such as age and creatinine clearance were of no influence on the predictive value in this specific patient population. These findings strengthen the idea that NT-pro-BNP may be of value in the early detection of diabetic patients with hemodynamic significant coronary artery disease. Copyright © 2009 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Serum levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) in depressed patients with schizophrenia.

Science.gov (United States)

Wysokiński, Adam

2016-01-01

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) are neurotrophins-proteins that induce the survival, development, and function of neurons. Their role in the development of schizophrenia and mood disorders is widely studied. This study was aimed to determine whether depression affects levels of BDNF and NT-3 in patients with schizophrenia. Data for 53 Caucasian adult hospitalized patients with chronic paranoid schizophrenia was compared with 27 healthy subjects. Clinical symptoms were assessed using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) and positive, negative and general sub-scores, the Calgary Depression Scale for Schizophrenia (CDSS), the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS), and the Clinical Global Impressions scale (CGI). Patients were defined as depressed (SHZ-DEP) with scores CDSS > 6 and HDRS > 7, otherwise they were included into the non-depressed group (SHZ-nonDEP). In total, 17 patients (32.1%) with schizophrenia met criteria for depression. SHZ-DEP patients had higher scores in HDRS, CDSS, PANSS total, PANSS negative, PANSS general and CGI (p BDNF or NT-3 levels between patients with schizophrenia and controls. BDNF levels were lower in SHZ-DEP compared to SHZ-nonDEP: 18.82 ± 5.95 versus 22.10 ± 5.31 ng/mL, p = 0.045. NT-3 levels were higher in SHZ-DEP compared to SHZ-nonDEP: 133.31 ± 222.19 versus 56.04 ± 201.28 pg/mL, p = 0.033. There were no differences in neurotrophin levels between patients with schizophrenia and controls. We found lower BDNF and higher NT-3 serum levels in depressed patients with schizophrenia.

Application of a Community eS@nté Platform in Maternal and Child ...

International Development Research Centre (IDRC) Digital Library (Canada)

Application of a Community eS@nté Platform in Maternal and Child Health in ... electronic patient files and telehealth can improve medical and healthcare data ... New website will help record vital life events to improve access to services for all.

NT-proBNP and troponin T levels differ after haemodialysis with a low versus high flux membrane

OpenAIRE

Laveborn, Emilie; Lindmark, Krister; Skagerlind, Malin; Stegmayr, Bernd

2015-01-01

BACKGROUND: Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), N-terminal-proBNP (NT-proBNP), and high sensitive cardiac troponin T (TnT) are markers that are elevated in chronic kidney disease and correlate with increased risk of mortality. Data are conflicting on the effect of biomarker levels by hemodialysis (HD).Our aim was to clarify to what extent HD with low-flux (LF) versus high-flux (HF) membranes affects the plasma levels of BNP, NT-proBNP, and TnT. METHODS AND MATERIALS: 31 HD patients were included...

”Se on tärkeää, että sinä käyt ulkona, et istu vaan kotona ja teet erilaisia asioita.” : tutkimus harrastusten merkityksestä somalityttöjen vapaa-ajassa

OpenAIRE

Tikkanen, Noora

2013-01-01

Tämän opinnäytetyön tarkoituksena oli tutkia miten yksin Suomeen tulleet ja tälläkin hetkellä ilman perhettään asuvat somalitytöt viettävät vapaa-aikaansa, minkä merkityksen he antavat harrastuksille ja mitkä asiat vaikuttavat harrastustoimintaan osallistumiseen. Tutkimuksen tavoitteena oli löytää keinoja, joilla voitaisiin lisätä Turun ensi- ja turvakoti ry:n perheryhmäkodissa asuvien somalityttöjen harrastusaktiivisuutta, ja edistää näin heidän hyvinvointiaan ja kotoutumistaan. Tutkimus...

Effect of different cover crops on C and N cycling in sorghum NT systems.

Science.gov (United States)

Frasier, Ileana; Quiroga, Alberto; Noellemeyer, Elke

2016-08-15

In many no-till (NT) systems, residue input is low and fallow periods excessive, for which reasons soil degradation occurs. Cover crops could improve organic matter, biological activity, and soil structure. In order to study changes in soil carbon, nitrogen and microbial biomass a field experiment (2010-2012) was set up with sorghum (Sorghum bicolor Moench.) monoculture and with cover crops. Treatments were control (NT with bare fallow), rye (Secale cereale L.) (R), rye with nitrogen fertilization (R+N), vetch (Vicia villosa Roth.) (V), and rye-vetch mixture (VR) cover crops. A completely randomized block design with 4 replicates was used. Soil was sampled once a year at 0.06 and 0.12m depth for total C, microbial biomass carbon (MBC) and-nitrogen (MBN) determinations. Shoot and root biomass of sorghum and cover crops, litter biomass, and their respective carbon and nitrogen contents were determined. Soil temperatures at 0.06 and 0.12m depth, volumetric water contents and nitrate concentrations were determined at sowing, and harvest of each crop, and during sorghum's vegetative phase. NT led to a small increase in MBC and MBN, despite low litter and root biomass residue. Cover crops increased litter, root biomass, total C, MBC, and MBN. Relationships between MBC, MBN, and root-C and -N adjusted to logistic models (R(2)=0.61 and 0.43 for C and N respectively). Litter cover improved soil moisture to 45-50% water filled pore space and soil temperatures not exceeding 25°C during the warmest month. Microbial biomass stabilized at 20.1gCm(-2) and 1.9gNm(-2) in the upper 0.06m. Soil litter disappearance was a good indicator of mineral N availability. These findings support the view that cover crops, specifically legumes in NT systems can increase soil ecosystem services related to water and carbon storage, habitat for biodiversity, and nutrient availability. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Osakkeenomistajan kunnossapitovastuu ja muutostyöoikeus asunto-osakeyhtiössä

OpenAIRE

Kujanpää, Vesa

2010-01-01

Opinnäytetyössä oli tavoitteena selvittää 01.07.2010 muuttuneen asunto-osakeyhtiölain mukaista osakkeenomistajan kunnossapitovastuuta sekä oikeutta tehdä muutostöitä omistamassaan osakehuoneistossa. Lisäksi työssä käsiteltiin uuden lain mukaista korjaustyöhön liittyvää ilmoitus- ja lupamenettelyä. Työssä tutkittiin lain soveltamista käytäntöön ja pohdittiin lainmukaisen toiminnan tuomia lisäkustannuksia ja niiden oikeaa tasoa. Lisäksi työn tavoitteena oli auttaa isännöitsijöitä ymmärtämään, ...

At the Intersection of Theatre and Social Work in Orissa, India: Natya Chetana and Its Theatre

OpenAIRE

Ranta-Tyrkkö, Satu

2010-01-01

Tutkimus on etnografia Intiassa Orissan osavaltiossa toimivasta Natya Chetana (Tietoisuuden Teatteri) -teatteriryhmästä, ja ryhmän työstä sosiaalityönä. Natya Chetanan kautta avautuvista näkökulmista käsin tutkimus osallistuu myös sosiaalityön kansainvälisiä ja globaaleja kysymyksiä, tehtäviä ja painotuksia koskevaan keskusteluun. Alunperin tutkimus virisi havainnosta, että yhtäällä itsestään selvästi sosiaalityöksi miellettyjä käytäntöjä ja lähestymistapoja ei välttämättä tunnisteta tai edes...

Modelling of Multi Input Transfer Function for Rainfall Forecasting in Batu City

OpenAIRE

Priska Arindya Purnama

2017-01-01

The aim of this research is to model and forecast the rainfall in Batu City using multi input transfer function model based on air temperature, humidity, wind speed and cloud. Transfer function model is a multivariate time series model which consists of an output series (Yt) sequence expected to be effected by an input series (Xt) and other inputs in a group called a noise series (Nt). Multi input transfer function model obtained is (b1,s1,r1) (b2,s2,r2) (b3,s3,r3) (b4,s4,r4)(pn,qn) = (0,0,0)...

2D-grafiikan käyttö peliprojektissa

OpenAIRE

Reimi-Orsa, Anniina

2010-01-01

Opinnäytetyö on projektikuvaus, jossa on käsitelty kaksiulotteisen grafiikan käyttöä peliprojektissa toteutettujen töiden kautta. Työharjoittelussani tuotin materiaalia peliprojektiin, jonka maailma luotiin pääasiassa 2D-grafiikan avulla. Projektikuvauksessa on käyty läpi työn kulkua alkuvalmisteluista valmiiseen pelissä käytettävään grafiikkaan sekä käytäntöjä tämän tyyppisen 2D-grafiikan tuotannossa. Alussa peliprojektia on käsitelty yleisluontoisesti sekä avattu työssä käytettyjä ja p...

IFRS-TILINPÄÄTÖSSTANDARDIT YKSITYISEN OSAKEYHTIÖN NÄKÖKULMASTA

OpenAIRE

Hassinen, Tiina

2008-01-01

Opinnäytetyön tarkoituksena on perehtyä siihen, mitä IFRS-tilinpäätösstandardit ovat ja miten ne vaikuttavat kirjanpitoon ja tilinpäätökseen. Tavoitteena on käsitellä tiivistetysti yksityisen osakeyhtiön tilinpäätökseen ja kirjanpitoon vaikuttavat standardit. Vertailukohtana on käytetty suomalaista tilinpäätöskäytäntöä. Opinnäytetyön alussa käsitellään IFRS-standardeja yleisellä tasolla, standardeihin liittyviä käsitteitä, standardien tuloa Suomeen ja syitä, jotka ovat vaikuttanee...

Elektronisen urheilun kasvu ja kilpapelaamiseen liittyvät tietoturvahaasteet

OpenAIRE

Koistinen, Iiro

2015-01-01

Työssä tutkittiin elektronisen urheilun historiaa ja kasvua käyttämällä mittareina ammattilaispelaajien ja turnausten lukumääriä, alalla liikkuvia rahamääriä sekä katsojalukujen kehitystä. Tämän lisäksi työssä perehdyttiin yleisimpiin tietoturvahaasteisiin kuten turnauksia tai yksittäisiä pelaajia kohtaan suoritettaviin palvelunestohyökkäyksiin, selvitettiin niiden yleisimpiä toteutustapoja sekä luotiin käytäntöjä, joilla pyritään estämään ja vähentämään niiden vaikutusta. Elektronisen ur...

Hypertension-Related Gene Polymorphisms of G-Protein-Coupled Receptor Kinase 4 Are Associated with NT-proBNP Concentration in Normotensive Healthy Adults

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Junichi Yatabe

2012-01-01

Full Text Available G protein-coupled receptor kinase 4 (GRK4 with activating polymorphisms desensitize the natriuric renal tubular D1 dopamine receptor, and these GRK4 polymorphisms are strongly associated with salt sensitivity and hypertension. Meanwhile, N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP may be useful in detecting slight volume expansion. However, relations between hypertension-related gene polymorphisms including GRK4 and cardiovascular indices such as NT-proBNP are not clear, especially in healthy subjects. Therefore, various hypertension-related polymorphisms and cardiovascular indices were analyzed in 97 normotensive, healthy Japanese adults. NT-proBNP levels were significantly higher in subjects with two or more GRK4 polymorphic alleles. Other hypertension-related gene polymorphisms, such as those of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system genes, did not correlate with NT-proBNP. There was no significant association between any of the hypertension-related gene polymorphisms and central systolic blood pressure, cardioankle vascular index, augmentation index, plasma aldosterone concentration, or an oxidative stress marker, urinary 8-OHdG. Normotensive individuals with GRK4 polymorphisms show increased serum NT-proBNP concentration and may be at a greater risk of developing hypertension and cardiovascular disease.

NT-proBNP as Marker of Ventricular Dilatation and Pulmonary Regurgitation After Surgical Correction of Tetralogy of Fallot: A MRI Validation Study.

Science.gov (United States)

Paolino, Annalisa; Hussain, Tarique; Pavon, Antonio; Velasco, Maria Nieves; Uribe, Sergio; Ordoñez, Antonio; Valverde, Israel

2017-02-01

The goal of this study is to evaluate whether NT-proBNP plasma levels may help as a screening biomarker for monitoring right ventricular dilatation, pulmonary regurgitation and the onset of heart failure in patients with repaired Tetralogy of Fallot. Our single-centre observational prospective study involved 43 patients (15.1 years, SD = 8) with corrected Tetralogy of Fallot. Data collection included: clinical parameters (electrocardiogram, chest X-ray, NYHA scale, time since last surgery), biochemistry (NT-proBNP levels) and MRI values (ventricular volumetry, pulmonary flow assessment). Mean time since last surgery was 13.5 years (SD = 7.8). There was a statistically significant correlation between the NT-proBNP levels (187.4 pg/ml, SD = 154.9) and right ventricular dilatation for both the right ventricular end-diastolic volume (124.9 ml/m 2 , SD = 31.2) (Pearson = 0.19, p Tetralogy of Fallot, NT-proBNP levels correlate with right ventricular dilatation and the degree of pulmonary regurgitation. Ambulatory determination of NT-proBNP might be an easy, readily available and cost-effective alternative for MRI follow-up evaluation of these patients.

Iodine chemistry effect on source term assessments. A MELCOR 186 YT study of a PWR severe accident sequence

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Herranz, Luis E.; Garcia, Monica; Otero, Bernadette

2009-01-01

Level-2 Probabilistic Safety Analysis has demonstrated to be a powerful tool to give insights into multiple aspects concerning severe accidents: phenomena with the greatest potential to lead to containment failure, safety systems performance and, even, to identify any additional accident management that could mitigate the consequences of such an even, etc. A major result of level-2 PSA is iodine content in Source Term since it is the main responsible for the radiological impact during the first few days after a hypothetical severe accident. Iodine chemistry is known to considerably affect iodine behavior and although understanding has improved substantially since the early 90's, a thorough understanding is still missing and most PSA studies do not address it when assessing severe accident scenarios. This paper emphasizes the quantitative and qualitative significance of considering iodine chemistry in level-2 PSA estimates. To do so a cold leg break, low pressure severe accident sequence of an actual pressurized water reactor has been analyzed with the MELCOR 1.8.6 YT code. Two sets of calculations, with and without chemistry, have been carried out and compared. The study shows that iodine chemistry could result in an iodine release to environment about twice higher, most of which would consist of around 60% of iodine in gaseous form. From these results it is concluded that exploratory studies on the potential effect of iodine chemistry on source term estimates should be carried out. (author)

BoNT-A related changes of cortical activity in patients suffering from severe hand paralysis with arm spasticity following ischemic stroke.

Science.gov (United States)

Veverka, Tomáš; Hluštík, Petr; Tomášová, Zuzana; Hok, Pavel; Otruba, Pavel; Král, Michal; Tüdös, Zbyněk; Zapletalová, Jana; Herzig, Roman; Krobot, Alois; Kaňovský, Petr

2012-08-15

Investigations were performed to localize and analyze the botulinum toxin (BoNT-A) related changes of cerebral cortex activation in chronic stroke patients suffering from severe hand paralysis with arm spasticity. Effects on task- related cerebral activation were evaluated by functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). 14 patients (5 males, 9 females, mean age 55.3 years) suffering from upper limb post-stroke spasticity were investigated. The change of arm spasticity was assessed by using the modified Ashworth scale (MAS). FMRI sessions were performed before (W0), four weeks (W4) and 11 weeks (W11) after BoNT-A application. Patients were scanned while performing imaginary movement with the impaired hand. Group fMRI analysis included patient age as a covariate. BoNT-A treatment was effective in alleviation of arm spasticity. Mean MAS was at Week 0: 2.5 (SD 0.53), at Week 4: 1.45 (SD 0.38), at Week 11: 2.32 (SD 0.44). Task-related fMRI prior to the treatment showed extensive activation of bilateral frontoparietal sensorimotor cortical areas, anterior cingulate gyrus, pallidum, thalamus and cerebellum. Effective BoNT-A treatment (W4) resulted in partial reduction of active network volume in most of the observed areas, whereas BoNT-free data (W11) revealed further volume reduction in the sensorimotor network. On direct comparison, significant activation decreases associated with BoNT-A treatment were located in areas outside the classical sensorimotor system, namely, ipsilesional lateral occipital cortex, supramarginal gyrus and precuneus cortex. On comparison of W4 and W11, no activation increases were found, instead, activation further decreased in ipsilesional insular cortex, contralesional superior frontal gyrus and bilateral frontal pole. Whole brain activation patterns during BoNT-A treatment of post-stroke arm spasticity and further follow up document predominantly gradual changes both within and outside the classical sensorimotor system. Copyright © 2012

Predictive value of NT-proBNP for 30-day mortality in patients with non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndromes: a comparison with the GRACE and TIMI risk scores.

Science.gov (United States)

Schellings, Dirk Aam; Adiyaman, Ahmet; Dambrink, Jan-Henk E; Gosselink, At Marcel; Kedhi, Elvin; Roolvink, Vincent; Ottervanger, Jan Paul; Van't Hof, Arnoud Wj

2016-01-01

The biomarker N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) predicts outcome in patients with non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndromes (NSTE-ACS). Whether NT-proBNP has incremental prognostic value beyond established risk strategies is still questionable. To evaluate the predictive value of NT-proBNP for 30-day mortality over and beyond the Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events (GRACE) and Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) risk scores in patients with NSTE-ACS. Patients included in our ACS registry were candidates. NT-proBNP levels on admission were measured and the GRACE and TIMI risk scores were assessed. We compared the predictive value of NT-proBNP to both risk scores and evaluated whether NT-proBNP improves prognostication by using receiver operator curves and measures of discrimination improvement. A total of 1324 patients were included and 50 patients died during follow-up. On logistic regression analysis NT-proBNP and the GRACE risk score (but not the TIMI risk score) both independently predicted mortality at 30 days. The predictive value of NT-proBNP did not differ significantly compared to the GRACE risk score (area under the curve [AUC]) 0.85 vs 0.87 p =0.67) but was considerably higher in comparison to the TIMI risk score (AUC 0.60 p risk score by adding NT-proBNP did not improve prognostication: AUC 0.86 ( p =0.57), integrated discrimination improvement 0.04 ( p =0.003), net reclassification improvement 0.12 ( p =0.21). In patients with NSTE-ACS, NT-proBNP and the GRACE risk score (but not the TIMI risk score) both have good and comparable predictive value for 30-day mortality. However, incremental prognostic value of NT-proBNP beyond the GRACE risk score could not be demonstrated.

Measurement of intraocular pressure using the NT-4000: a new non-contact tonometer equipped with pulse synchronous measurement function.

Science.gov (United States)

Yaoeda, Kiyoshi; Shirakashi, Motohiro; Fukushima, Atsushi; Funaki, Shigeo; Funaki, Haruko; Ofuchi, Nobutaka; Nakatsue, Tomoko; Abe, Haruki

2005-06-01

NT-4000 (Nidek Co. Ltd., Gamagori, Japan) is a new non-contact tonometer (NCT) equipped with pulse synchronous measurement function that can measure intraocular pressure (IOP) synchronized with the ocular pulse. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of NT-4000 in normal subjects and in patients with glaucoma and ocular hypertension. This study included 175 eyes of 175 subjects. Firstly, the IOP was measured using NT-4000 without the pulse synchronous measurement function (NTn). Secondly, the IOP at peak, middle, and trough phases of the pulse signal were measured using NT-4000 with the pulse synchronous measurement function (NTp, NTm, NTt, respectively). Additionally, the IOP was measured with Goldmann applanation tonometer (GT). The coefficient of variation (CV) of three readings in the NCT measurements was used to evaluate the intra-session reproducibility. Statistical comparisons were performed using Wilcoxon signed rank test and one-way analysis of variance with Scheffe's test. Linear regression analysis was used to calculate correlation coefficients. P values less than 0.05 were accepted as statistically significant. The CV of NTn, NTp, NTm, and NTt were 6.4%, 5.5%, 4.9%, and 5.2%, respectively. The CV of NTp, NTm, and NTt were significantly smaller than that of NTn (P = 0.007, P < 0.001, P < 0.001, respectively). NTp was significantly higher than NTt (P = 0.038). GT was significantly correlated with NTn, NTp, NTm, and NTt (r = 0.898, P < 0.001; r = 0.912, P < 0.001; r = 0.908, P < 0.001; r = 0.900, P < 0.001, respectively). NT-4000 can detect the fluctuation of IOP associated with the ocular pulse.

A graphene oxide based fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) biosensor for ultrasensitive detection of botulinum neurotoxin A (BoNT/A) enzymatic activity.

Science.gov (United States)

Shi, Jingyu; Guo, Jiubiao; Bai, Gongxun; Chan, Chunyu; Liu, Xuan; Ye, Weiwei; Hao, Jianhua; Chen, Sheng; Yang, Mo

2015-03-15

Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) are among the most potent toxic bacterial proteins for humans, which make them potential agents for bioterrorism. Therefore, an ultrasensitive detection of BoNTs and their active states is in great need as field-deployable systems for anti-terrorism applications. We report the construction of a novel graphene oxide (GO)-peptide based fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) biosensor for ultrasensitive detection of the BoNT serotype A light chain (BoNT-LcA) protease activity. A green fluorescence protein (GFP) modified SNAP-25 peptide substrate (SNAP-25-GFP) was optimally designed and synthesized with the centralized recognition/cleavage sites. This FRET platform was constructed by covalent immobilization of peptide substrate on GO with BSA passivation which have advantages of low non-specific adsorption and high stability in protein abundant solution. BoNT-LcA can specifically cleave SNAP-25-GFP substrate covalently immobilized on GO to release the fragment with GFP. Based on fluorescence signal recovery measurement, the target BoNT-LcA was detected sensitively and selectively with the linear detection range from 1fg/mL to 1pg/mL. The limit of detection (LOD) for BoNT-LcA is around 1fg/mL. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Epizootic vacuolar myelinopathy of the central nervous system of bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) and American coots (Fulica americana)

Science.gov (United States)

Thomas, N.J.; Meteyer, C.U.; Sileo, L.

1998-01-01

Unprecedented mortality occurred in bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) at DeGray Lake, Arkansas, during the winters of 1994-1995 and 1996-1997. The first eagles were found dead during November, soon after arrival from fall migration, and deaths continued into January during both episodes. In total, 29 eagles died at or near DeGray Lake in the winter of 1994-1995 and 26 died in the winter of 1996-1997; no eagle mortality was noted during the same months of the intervening winter or in the earlier history of the lake. During the mortality events, sick eagles were observed overflying perches or colliding with rock walls. Signs of incoordination and limb paresis were also observed in American coots (Fulica americana) during the episodes of eagle mortality, but mortality in coots was minimal. No consistent abnormalities were seen on gross necropsy of either species. No microscopic findings in organs other than the central nervous system (CNS) could explain the cause of death. By light microscopy, all 26 eagles examined and 62/77 (81%) coots had striking, diffuse, spongy degeneration of the white matter of the CNS. Vacuolation occurred in all myelinated CNS tissue, including the cerebellar folia and medulla oblongata, but was most prominent in the optic tectum. In the spinal cord, vacuoles were concentrated near the gray matter, and occasional swollen axons were seen. Vacuoles were uniformly present in optic nerves but were not evident in the retina or peripheral or autonomic nerves. Cellular inflammatory response to the lesion was distinctly lacking. Vacuoles were 8-50 microns in diameter and occurred individually, in clusters, or in rows. In sections stained by luxol fast blue/periodic acid-Schiff stain, the vacuoles were delimited and transected by myelin strands. Transmission electron microscopy revealed intramyelinic vacuoles formed in the myelin sheaths by splitting of one or more myelin lamellae at the intraperiodic line. This lesion is characteristic of

The technical standard IBAMA (NT01/11) and its applications in waste water treatment in offshore platforms; A NT/ 01/11 do IBAMA e suas aplicacoes no tratamento de efluentes nas plataformas offshore

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Paravidino, Thadeu Crespo; Miocque, Andre; Oliveira, Cristiane Lopes de [Vicel Comercio e Industria e Servico Ltda., Rio de Janeiro, RJ (Brazil)

2012-07-01

This paper aims to present the technical standard IBAMA (NT01/11) as it applies to wastewater treatment projects in maritime exploration and production of oil and gas, and the solutions proposed by the company VICEL to meet with this standard and the other existing laws in force in Brazil. To meet these objectives, the paper covers the following topics: environmental legislation applicable to maritime enterprises of exploration and production of oil and gas operating in Brazil: concepts and definitions of MARPOL and CONAMA Resolution 357 (amended by CONAMA 430), Law 9966/2000 and NT01/11; PCP - Pollution Control Project required by IBAMA; the solutions proposed by VICEL - Gray Water Policy Management and Treatment System (GWTS). Throughout its development, this paper presents in detail the analysis of the gray water effluents generated on board of a drilling rig, and the results obtained with the installation of a prototype system for treating gray water (GWTS). Finally, this paper demonstrates that IBAMA NT01/11 regulation is intended to guide and create means for monitoring all maritime enterprises of exploration and production of oil and gas operating in Brazil, in order to promote the reduction of the pollution caused by their operation (ecological footprint), concludes as compulsory the treatment for the gray water generated on board, and presents VICEL solutions for the implementation of a waste management policy and the installation of a Gray Water Treatment System (GWTS). (author)

Extranodal NK/T-cell lymphoma, nasal type (ENKTL-NT): An update on epidemiology, clinical presentation, and natural history in North American and European cases

Science.gov (United States)

Haverkos, Bradley M.; Pan, Zenggang; Gru, Alejandro A.; Freud, Aharon G.; Rabinovitch, Rachel; Xu-Welliver, Meng; Otto, Brad; Barrionuevo, Carlos; Baiocchi, Robert A.; Rochford, Rosemary; Porcu, Pierluigi

2016-01-01

Extranodal NK/T-cell lymphoma, nasal type (ENKTL-NT) is an aggressive extranodal non-Hodgkin lymphoma most commonly occurring in East Asia and Latin America but with increasing incidence in the U.S. Data on epidemiology, disease presentation, and outcome for European and North American (“Western”) cases are very limited. We review published landmark clinical studies on ENKTL-NT in the West and report in detail recent data, including our institutional experience. We highlight key observations in its epidemiology, natural history, and trends in clinical management. In the U.S., ENKTL-NT is more common among Asian Pacific Islanders (API) and Hispanics compared to non-Hispanic whites. Published studies indicate less heterogeneity in clinical presentation in Western ENKTL-NT compared to Asian patients. While there is variation in age at diagnosis, presence of antecedent lymphoproliferative disorders, and outcomes among racial/ethnic groups, the universal association of ENKTL-NT with EBV and the poor response of this neoplasm to anthracycline-based therapy are consistent across all geographic areas. PMID:27778143

[Expression of proBNP and NT-proBNP in Sudden Death of Coronary Heart Disease].

Science.gov (United States)

Zeng, Q; Sun, R F; Li, Z; Zhai, L Q; Liu, M Z; Guo, X J; Gao, C R

2017-10-01

To study the expression change of pro-brain natriuretic peptide （proBNP） and N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide （NT-proBNP） in sudden death of coronary atherosclerotic heart disease, and to explore its application in forensic diagnosis. Myocardial and blood samples were collected from normal control group, sudden death of coronary atherosclerotic heart disease group and single coronary stenosis group （20 cases in each group）. The expression of proBNP in myocardial samples were detected by immunohistochemical staining and Western blotting, and that of BNP mRNA were detected by reverse transcription PCR （RT-PCR）. The content of NT-proBNP in plasma were detected by ELISA. Immunohistochemical staining showed positive expression of proBNP in both sudden death of coronary atherosclerotic heart disease group and single coronary stenosis group. There was no positive expression in normal control group. For sudden death of coronary atherosclerotic heart disease group and single coronary stenosis group, the relative expression of proBNP protein and BNP mRNA in myocardial tissue and the NT-proBNP content in plasma were higher than that of normal control group （ P heart disease group was higher than that of single coronary stenosis group （ P heart disease and determine whether the sudden death due to coronary atherosclerotic heart disease. Copyright© by the Editorial Department of Journal of Forensic Medicine

Comparing 2-nt 3' overhangs against blunt-ended siRNAs: a systems biology based study.

Science.gov (United States)

Ghosh, Preetam; Dullea, Robert; Fischer, James E; Turi, Tom G; Sarver, Ronald W; Zhang, Chaoyang; Basu, Kalyan; Das, Sajal K; Poland, Bradley W

2009-07-07

In this study, we formulate a computational reaction model following a chemical kinetic theory approach to predict the binding rate constant for the siRNA-RISC complex formation reaction. The model allowed us to study the potency difference between 2-nt 3' overhangs against blunt-ended siRNA molecules in an RNA interference (RNAi) system. The rate constant predicted by this model was fed into a stochastic simulation of the RNAi system (using the Gillespie stochastic simulator) to study the overall potency effect. We observed that the stochasticity in the transcription/translation machinery has no observable effects in the RNAi pathway. Sustained gene silencing using siRNAs can be achieved only if there is a way to replenish the dsRNA molecules in the cell. Initial findings show about 1.5 times more blunt-ended molecules will be required to keep the mRNA at the same reduced level compared to the 2-nt overhang siRNAs. However, the mRNA levels jump back to saturation after a longer time when blunt-ended siRNAs are used. We found that the siRNA-RISC complex formation reaction rate was 2 times slower when blunt-ended molecules were used pointing to the fact that the presence of the 2-nt overhangs has a greater effect on the reaction in which the bound RISC complex cleaves the mRNA.

Information decision making support system RECASS-NT

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Shershakov, V.; Kosykh, V.; Borodin, R.

2003-01-01

Full text: The primary purpose of the DSS RECASS-NT is analysis and prediction of the situation in case of emergency at nuclear facilities (in early phases of an accident) including dose estimation and working out recommendations with regard to countermeasures to protect the public affected by the accident. The system was created to satisfy the following requirements: the system should be ale to operate in two modes: automatic and interactive; the system is based an the 'client-server' principle. Clients can interact with the system both locally and remotely; all calculations in the system are carried out on the server. The client part is responsible for interaction with the system user (including data presentation). Results of model calculations can be displayed during modeling (dynamically) and on completion of calculations; the information base of the system is the operational database, the systemic database and the database with calculation results; the system should enable parallel calculations, among them calculations by different scenarios for the same accident. The automatic mode involves running a specified chain of modules using appropriate scenarios, with a final result generated. The primary purpose of the automatic mode is conducting express-calculations when detailed information about emergency is unavailable. In the interactive mode selection and start-up of a chain of calculation modules, setting parameters for used models, their correction and other actions key for the system operations are performed by a system user (expert). There are no differences between the automatic and interactive modes in terms of storage of calculation results in the system and method of data transmission between the modules within the chain. The telecommunication subsystem (TCS) is designed to provide linkage between programs occurring an different computers and connected both in the local network and the telecommunication system EGASKRO and, possibly, commercial

PREFACE: International Conference on Functional Materials and Nanotechnologies 2013 (FM&NT2013)

Science.gov (United States)

Nõmmiste, Ergo; Kirm, Marco; Plank, Toomas

2013-12-01

The International Conference Functional Materials and Nanotechnologies (FM&NT - 2013) was held in Tartu, 21-24 April 2013 at the Dorpat Conference Centre. The conference was organised by Institute of Physics, University of Tartu. The FM&NT conference series was started in 2006 by scientists from the Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia. It is an annual conference bringing together researchers from the whole world. The warm and open atmosphere of this scientific conference has turned it into event where people from different fields meet under the common name of functional materials and nanotechnology. It is particularly important for early stage scientists who are looking for new knowledge and contact with people from various fields. Our Latvian colleagues with their success in internationalization made us neighbouring Estonians so envious that we could not withstand proposing that we host the conference in every second year in Estonia. Actually this is in a way the continuation of the idea of the famous Baltic seminars which took place over several decades during the last century. Due to political constraints these seminars were only opened to scientist of the former Eastern European countries, but which were extremely popular and attracted attendees from over the whole Soviet Union. Much fruitful cooperation started from the initial personal contacts of scientists at these seminars held twice per year, once in Latvia and the second time in Estonia. At the last FM&NT 2012 conference, the decision was made that Institute of Physics, University of Tartu would organise the event in Tartu in 2013. Along with traditional topics such as multifunctional materials, nanomaterials, materials for sustainable energy applications and theory, this conference focused on studies using synchrotron radiation and other novel light sources. The number of registered participants from 21 countries was nearly 300. During the three days of the conference 14 invited, 45

Extranodal NK/T Cell Lymphoma, Nasal Type (ENKTL-NT): An Update on Epidemiology, Clinical Presentation, and Natural History in North American and European Cases.

Science.gov (United States)

Haverkos, Bradley M; Pan, Zenggang; Gru, Alejandro A; Freud, Aharon G; Rabinovitch, Rachel; Xu-Welliver, Meng; Otto, Brad; Barrionuevo, Carlos; Baiocchi, Robert A; Rochford, Rosemary; Porcu, Pierluigi

2016-12-01

Extranodal NK/T cell lymphoma, nasal type (ENKTL-NT) is an aggressive extranodal non-Hodgkin lymphoma most commonly occurring in East Asia and Latin America but with increasing incidence in the United States. Data on epidemiology, disease presentation, and outcome for European and North American ("Western") cases are very limited. We review published landmark clinical studies on ENKTL-NT in the West and report in detail recent data, including our institutional experience. We highlight key observations in its epidemiology, natural history, and trends in clinical management. In the USA, ENKTL-NT is more common among Asian Pacific Islanders (API) and Hispanics compared to non-Hispanic whites. Published studies indicate less heterogeneity in clinical presentation in Western ENKTL-NT compared to Asian patients. While there is variation in age at diagnosis, presence of antecedent lymphoproliferative disorders, and outcomes among racial/ethnic groups, the universal association of ENKTL-NT with EBV and the poor response of this neoplasm to anthracycline-based therapy is consistent across all geographic areas. Data on epidemiology, disease presentation, and clinical outcomes in mature T cell and NK cell (T/NK cell) neoplasms, including ENKTL-NT, in Europe and North America are very limited. As the classification and diagnostic characterization of the currently recognized T/NK cell lymphoma disease entities continue to evolve, gaps and inconsistencies in data reporting across different studies are being recognized. Despite these limitations, several studies from the USA suggest that the incidence of ENKTL-NT is higher in Asian Pacific Islanders (API) and non-white Hispanics and that outcomes may be worse in non-whites. However, the universal association of ENKTL-NT with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) across all ethnic groups suggests a common pathogenesis. Given the overlap between the entities included in the category of T/NK cell neoplasms, there is a need to further define

BNP and NT-proBNP, Predictors of 1-Year Mortality in Nursing Home Residents

NARCIS (Netherlands)

Barents, Maaike; Hillege, Hans H. L.; van der Horst, Iwan C. C.; de Boer, Rudolph A.; Koster, J.; Muskiet, Frits A. J.; de Jongste, Mike J. L.

2008-01-01

Objectives: To investigate 1-year mortality prediction of B type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and N terminal-proBNP (NT-proBNP) in institutionalized elderly with multiple morbidities. Design: Prospective cross-sectional study. Setting: One nursing home. Participants: Ninety-three residents (mean age 81

Gustatory papillae and taste bud development and maintenance in the absence of TrkB ligands BDNF and NT-4.

Science.gov (United States)

Ito, Akira; Nosrat, Christopher A

2009-09-01

Taste buds and the peripheral nerves innervating them are two important components of the peripheral gustatory system. They require appropriate connections for the taste system to function. Neurotrophic factors play crucial roles in the innervation of peripheral sensory organs and tissues. Both brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) null-mutated and neurotrophin-4 (NT-4) null-mutated mice exhibit peripheral gustatory deficits. BDNF and NT-4 bind to a common high affinity tyrosine kinase receptor, TrkB (NTRK-2), and a common p75 neurotrophin receptor (NGFR). We are currently using a transgenic mouse model to study peripheral taste system development and innervation in the absence of both TrkB ligands. We show that taste cell progenitors express taste cell markers during early stages of taste bud development in both BDNF(-/-)xNT-4(-/-) and wild-type mice. At early embryonic stages, taste bud progenitors express Troma-1, Shh, and Sox2 in all mice. At later stages, lack of innervation becomes a prominent feature in BDNF(-/-)xNT-4(-/-) mice leading to a decreasing number of fungiform papillae and morphologically degenerating taste cells. A total loss of vallate taste cells also occurs in postnatal transgenic mice. Our data indicate an initial independence but a later permissive and essential role for innervation in taste bud development and maintenance.

Phosphatidylinositol (4,5)Bisphosphate Inhibits K+-Efflux Channel Activity in NT1 Tobacco Cultured Cells1[W][OA

Science.gov (United States)

Ma, Xiaohong; Shor, Oded; Diminshtein, Sofia; Yu, Ling; Im, Yang Ju; Perera, Imara; Lomax, Aaron; Boss, Wendy F.; Moran, Nava

2009-01-01

In the animal world, the regulation of ion channels by phosphoinositides (PIs) has been investigated extensively, demonstrating a wide range of channels controlled by phosphatidylinositol (4,5)bisphosphate (PtdInsP2). To understand PI regulation of plant ion channels, we examined the in planta effect of PtdInsP2 on the K+-efflux channel of tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum), NtORK (outward-rectifying K channel). We applied a patch clamp in the whole-cell configuration (with fixed “cytosolic” Ca2+ concentration and pH) to protoplasts isolated from cultured tobacco cells with genetically manipulated plasma membrane levels of PtdInsP2 and cellular inositol (1,4,5)trisphosphate: “Low PIs” had depressed levels of these PIs, and “High PIs” had elevated levels relative to controls. In all of these cells, K channel activity, reflected in the net, steady-state outward K+ currents (IK), was inversely related to the plasma membrane PtdInsP2 level. Consistent with this, short-term manipulations decreasing PtdInsP2 levels in the High PIs, such as pretreatment with the phytohormone abscisic acid (25 μm) or neutralizing the bath solution from pH 5.6 to pH 7, increased IK (i.e. NtORK activity). Moreover, increasing PtdInsP2 levels in controls or in abscisic acid-treated high-PI cells, using the specific PI-phospholipase C inhibitor U73122 (2.5–4 μm), decreased NtORK activity. In all cases, IK decreases stemmed largely from decreased maximum attainable NtORK channel conductance and partly from shifted voltage dependence of channel gating to more positive potentials, making it more difficult to activate the channels. These results are consistent with NtORK inhibition by the negatively charged PtdInsP2 in the internal plasma membrane leaflet. Such effects are likely to underlie PI signaling in intact plant cells. PMID:19052153

Increased NT-proANP predicts risk of congestive heart failure in Cavalier King Charles spaniels with mitral regurgitation caused by myxomatous valve disease.

Science.gov (United States)

Eriksson, Anders S; Häggström, Jens; Pedersen, Henrik Duelund; Hansson, Kerstin; Järvinen, Anna-Kaisa; Haukka, Jari; Kvart, Clarence

2014-09-01

To evaluate the predictive value of plasma N-terminal pro-atrial natriuretic peptide (NT-proANP) and nitric oxide end-products (NOx) as markers for progression of mitral regurgitation caused by myxomatous mitral valve disease. Seventy-eight privately owned Cavalier King Charles spaniels with naturally occurring myxomatous mitral valve disease. Prospective longitudinal study comprising 312 measurements over a 4.5 year period. Clinical values were recorded, NT-proANP concentrations were measured by radioimmunoassay, and NOx were analyzed colorimetrically. To predict congestive heart failure (CHF), Cox proportional hazards models with time-varying covariates were constructed. The hazard ratio for NT-proANP (per 1000 pmol/l increase) to predict future CHF was 6.7 (95% confidence interval, 3.6-12.5; p 1000 pmol/l was 11 months (95% confidence interval, 5.6-12.6 months), compared to 54 months (46 - infinity) for dogs with concentrations ≤ 1000 pmol/l (p 130 beats per minute) and grade of murmur (≥ 3/6). The risk of CHF due to mitral regurgitation is increased in dogs with blood NT-proANP concentrations above 1000 pmol/l. Measurement of NT-proANP can be a valuable tool to identify dogs that may develop CHF within months. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

EOS9nT: A TOUGH2 module for the simulation of flow and solute/colloid transport

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Moridis, G.J.; Wu, Y.S.; Pruess, K.

1998-04-01

EOS9nT is a new TOUGH2 module for the simulation of flow and transport of an arbitrary number n of tracers (solutes and/or colloids) in the subsurface. The module first solves the flow-related equations, which are comprised of (a) the Richards equation and, depending on conditions, may also include (b) the flow equation of a dense brine or aqueous suspension and/or (c) the heat equation. A second set of transport equations, corresponding to the n tracers, are then solved sequentially. The low concentrations of the n tracers are considered to have no effect on the liquid phase, thus making possible the decoupling of their equations. The first set of equations in EOS9nT provides the flow regime and account for fluid density variations due to thermal and/or solute concentration effects. The n tracer transport equations account for sorption, radioactive decay, advection, hydrodynamic dispersion, molecular diffusion, as well as filtration (for colloids only). EOS9nT can handle gridblocks or irregular geometry in three-dimensional domains. Preliminary results from four 1-D verification problems show an excellent agreement between the numerical predictions and the known analytical solutions

Toward a Better Understanding of the GRB Phenomenon: a New Model for GRB Prompt Emission and its Effects on the New LiNT- Epeak,irest,NT Relation

Science.gov (United States)

Guiriec, S.; Kouveliotou, C.; Daigne, F.; Zhang, B.; Hascoët, R.; Nemmen, R. S.; Thompson, D. J.; Bhat, P. N.; Gehrels, N.; Gonzalez, M. M.; Kaneko, Y.; McEnery, J.; Mochkovitch, R.; Racusin, J. L.; Ryde, F.; Sacahui, J. R.; Ünsal, A. M.

2015-07-01

both the observer and rest frames and show that a strong correlation exists between the flux of the non-thermal Band function and its Epeak only when the three components are fitted simultaneously to the data (i.e., {F}i{NT}-{E}{peak,i}{NT} relation). In addition, this result points toward a universal relation between those two quantities when transposed to the central engine rest frame for all GRBs (i.e., {L}i{NT}-{E}{peak,i}{rest,{NT}} relation). We discuss a possible theoretical interpretation of the three spectral components within this new empirical model. We suggest that (i) the BB component may be interpreted as the photosphere emission of a magnetized relativistic outflow, (ii) the Band component has synchrotron radiation in an optically thin region above the photosphere, either from internal shocks or magnetic field dissipation, and (iii) the extra PL component extending to high energies likely has an inverse Compton origin of some sort, even though its extension to a much lower energy remains a mystery.

Ahlaki sıkıntı: Türkiye’de sağlık alanında gündeme gelmeyen bir boyut

OpenAIRE

Gülay Yıldırım; Dilek Özden; Şerife Karagözoğlu

2013-01-01

Özet Ahlaki sıkıntı (moral distres) sağlık bakım alanlarında çalışan profesyoneller ve yöneticilerde yaygın olarak yaşanan bir problemdir. Ahlaki sıkıntı, bir profesyonelin yapılacak doğru eylemi bildiği halde engeller nedeniyle doğru eylemi gerçekleştirememesi durumunda yaşadığı bir sıkıntıdır. Bireysel ve kurumsal birçok durumun neden olduğu ahlaki sıkıntı, sağlık profesyonellerinde öfke ve engellenme duygusundan iş doyumunda azalmaya, tükenmişlik ve meslekten ayrılmaya kadar önemli sonuçla...

Low cost, patterning of human hNT brain cells on parylene-C with UV & IR laser machining.

Science.gov (United States)

Raos, Brad J; Unsworth, C P; Costa, J L; Rohde, C A; Doyle, C S; Delivopoulos, E; Murray, A F; Dickinson, M E; Simpson, M C; Graham, E S; Bunting, A S

2013-01-01

This paper describes the use of 800nm femtosecond infrared (IR) and 248nm nanosecond ultraviolet (UV) laser radiation in performing ablative micromachining of parylene-C on SiO2 substrates for the patterning of human hNT astrocytes. Results are presented that support the validity of using IR laser ablative micromachining for patterning human hNT astrocytes cells while UV laser radiation produces photo-oxidation of the parylene-C and destroys cell patterning. The findings demonstrate how IR laser ablative micromachining of parylene-C on SiO2 substrates can offer a low cost, accessible alternative for rapid prototyping, high yield cell patterning.

The natural scorpion peptide, BmK NT1 activates voltage-gated sodium channels and produces neurotoxicity in primary cultured cerebellar granule cells.

Science.gov (United States)

Zou, Xiaohan; He, Yuwei; Qiao, Jinping; Zhang, Chunlei; Cao, Zhengyu

2016-01-01

The scorpion Buthus martensii Karsch has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat neuronal diseases such as neuropathic pain, paralysis and epilepsy for thousands of years. Studies have demonstrated that scorpion venom is the primary active component. Although scorpion venom can effectively attenuate pain in the clinic, it also produces neurotoxic response. In this study, toxicity guided purification led to identify a mammalian toxin termed BmK NT1 comprising of 65 amino acid residues and an amidated C-terminus, a mature peptide encoded by the nucleotide sequence (GenBank No. AF464898). In contract to the recombinant product of the same nucleotide sequence, BmK AGAP, which displayed analgesic and anti-tumor effect, intravenous injection (i.v.) of BmK NT1 produced acute toxicity in mice with an LD50 value of 1.36 mg/kg. In primary cultured cerebellar granule cells, BmK NT1 produced a concentration-dependent cell death with an IC50 value of 0.65 μM (0.41-1.03 μM, 95% Confidence Intervals, 95% CI) which was abolished by TTX, a voltage-gated sodium channel (VGSC) blocker. We also demonstrated that BmK NT1 produced modest sodium influx in cerebellar granule cell cultures with an EC50 value of 2.19 μM (0.76-6.40 μM, 95% CI), an effect similar to VGSC agonist, veratridine. The sodium influx response was abolished by TTX suggesting that BmK NT1-induced sodium influx is solely through activation of VGSC. Considered these data together, we demonstrated that BmK NT1 activated VGSC and produced neurotoxicity in cerebellar granule cell cultures. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

NT-ProBNP levels, water and sodium homeostasis in healthy men: effects of 7 days of dry immersion.

Science.gov (United States)

Navasiolava, Nastassia M; Pajot, Aurelie; Gallois, Yves; Pastushkova, Ludmila Kh; Kulchitsky, Vladimir A; Gauquelin-Koch, Guillemette; Kozlovskaya, Inesa B; Heer, Martina; Hand, Olga; Larina, Irina M; Custaud, Marc-Antoine

2011-09-01

Immersion is a useful tool for studying fluid-volume homeostasis. Natriuretic peptides play a vital role in renal, humoral, and cardiovascular regulation under changing environmental conditions. We hypothesized that dry immersion would rapidly induce a new steady state for water and sodium metabolism, and that serum NT-proBNP levels, a proxy measure for brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), would decrease during long-term dry immersion and increase during recovery. Eight healthy young men were studied before, during, and after 7 days of dry immersion. Body weight, water balance, and plasma volume changes were evaluated. Plasma and serum samples were analyzed for active renin, NT-proBNP, aldosterone, electrolytes, osmolality, total protein, and creatinine. Urine samples were analyzed to determine levels of electrolytes, osmolality, creatinine, and free cortisol. A stand test was performed before and after dry immersion to evaluate cardiovascular deconditioning. Long-term dry immersion induced acute changes in water and sodium homeostasis on day 1, followed by a new steady state. Plasma volume decreased significantly during dry immersion. The serum levels of NT-proBNP increased significantly in recovery (10 ± 3 ng/L before dry immersion vs. 26 ± 5 ng/L on the fourth recovery day). Heart rate in the standing position was significantly greater after immersion. Results suggest that chronic dry immersion rapidly induced a new level of water-electrolyte homeostasis. The increase in NT-proBNP levels during the recovery period may be related to greater cardiac work and might reflect the degree of cardiovascular deconditioning.

Matkustussäännön toteuttaminen ja kehittäminen - Case Norilsk Nickel Harjavalta Oy

OpenAIRE

Sihvonen, Aino

2015-01-01

Tämä opinnäytetyö tehtiin toimeksiantona Norilsk Nickel Harjavalta Oy:lle. Opinnäytetyön tarkoituksena oli tutkia toimeksiantajan matkustussäännön vahvuuksia ja puutteita. Tutkimustehtävänä oli selvittää, miten yhtiön henkilöstö kokee nykyisen matkustussäännön sekä mistä johtuu, että matkustusasioissa ilmenee erilaisia käytänteitä. Tutkimuksen tavoitteena oli luoda kehitysehdotuksia yhtiön matkustussääntöön. Matkustussäännön kehittämisellä pyritään kustannustehokkuuden ja ympäristönäkökulmien...

QCD thermodynamics with two flavors at Nt=6

Science.gov (United States)

Bernard, Claude; Ogilvie, Michael C.; Degrand, Thomas A.; Detar, Carleton; Gottlieb, Steven; Krasnitz, Alex; Sugar, R. L.; Toussaint, D.

1992-05-01

The first results of numerical simulations of quantum chromodynamics on the Intel iPSC/860 parallel processor are presented. We performed calculations with two flavors of Kogut-Susskind quarks at Nt=6 with masses of 0.15T and 0.075T (0.025 and 0.0125 in lattice units) in order to locate the crossover from the low-temperature regime of ordinary hadronic matter to the high-temperature chirally symmetric regime. As with other recent two-flavor simulations, these calculations are insufficient to distinguish between a rapid crossover and a true phase transition. The phase transition is either absent or feeble at this quark mass. An improved estimate of the crossover temperature in physical units is given and results are presented for the hadronic screening lengths in both the high- and low-temperature regimes.

NT-pro brain natriuretic peptide levels and the risk of death in the cooperative study of sickle cell disease.

Science.gov (United States)

Machado, Roberto F; Hildesheim, Mariana; Mendelsohn, Laurel; Remaley, Alan T; Kato, Gregory J; Gladwin, Mark T

2011-08-01

Epidemiological studies support a hypothesis that pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a common complication of sickle cell disease (SCD) that is associated with a high risk of death and evolves as a complication of haemolytic anaemia. This fundamental hypothesis has been recently challenged and remains controversial. In order to further test this hypothesis in a large and independent cohort of SCD patients we obtained plasma samples from the Cooperative Study of Sickle Cell Disease (CSSCD) for analysis of a biomarker, N-terminal-pro brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), which is elevated in the setting of pulmonary arterial and venous hypertension. A NT-pro-BNP value previously identified to predict PH in adults with SCD was used to determine the association between the risk of mortality in 758 CSSCD participants (428 children and 330 adults). An abnormally high NT-proBNP level ≥160ng/l was present in 27·6% of adult SCD patients. High levels were associated with markers of haemolytic anaemia, such as low haemoglobin level (P<0·001), high lactate dehydrogenase (P<0·001), and high total bilirubin levels (P<0·007). A NT-proBNP level ≥160ng/l was an independent predictor of mortality (RR 6·24, 95% CI 2·9-13·3, P<0·0001). These findings provide further support for an association between haemolytic anaemia and cardiovascular complications in this patient population. © 2011 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Hormone therapy with tamoxifen reduces plasma levels of NT-B-type natriuretic peptide but does not change ventricular ejection fraction after chemotherapy in women with breast cancer

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

F.B. Silva

2015-02-01

Full Text Available The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of tamoxifen on the plasma concentration of NT-pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP in women undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer and to correlate changes in NT-proBNP with the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF. Over a period of 12 months, we followed 60 women with a diagnosis of breast cancer. The patients were separated into a group that received only chemotherapy (n=23, a group that received chemotherapy + tamoxifen (n=21, and a group that received only tamoxifen (n=16. Plasma levels of NT-proBNP were assessed at 0 (T0, 6 (T6, and 12 (T12 months of treatment, and echocardiography data were assessed at T0 and T12. Plasma NT-proBNP levels were increased in the chemotherapy-only group at T6 and T12, whereas elevated NT-proBNP levels were only found at T6 in the chemotherapy + tamoxifen group. At T12, the chemotherapy + tamoxifen group exhibited a significant reduction in the peptide to levels similar to the group that received tamoxifen alone. The chemotherapy-only group exhibited a significant decrease in LVEF at T12, whereas the chemotherapy + tamoxifen and tamoxifen-only groups maintained levels similar to those at the beginning of treatment. Treatment with tamoxifen for 6 months after chemotherapy significantly reduced the plasma levels of NT-proBNP and did not change LVEF in women with breast cancer.

Spectroscopic Classification of SN 2018nt as a Reddened Type Ia Supernova

Science.gov (United States)

Vinko, J.; Szeged, U.; Wheeler, J. C.

2018-02-01

An optical spectrum (range 360-700 nm) of SN 2018nt (K2 C16-0043), was obtained with the "Low Resolution Spectrograph-2" (LRS2) on the 10m Hobby-Eberly Telescope at McDonald Observatory by S. Odewahn on 2018 Feb 05.20 UT. The spectrum is consistent with that of a heavily reddened Type Ia supernova (with Av > 2 mag) about 3 weeks after maximum light.

Mr. Lawrence tuleb Rabarockiks kokku! Peer Günt uues kuues. Pervert ja ämma unistus

Index Scriptorium Estoniae

2007-01-01

Rockansamblist Mr. Lawrence, albumitest "Mr. Lawrence", "Swing", "Sitandspin". Soome hardrock'i ansamblist Peer Günt, albumist "Backseat". Etno-folkrockansamblist Dagö (kontsert 15. juunil Rabarockil), albumitest "Toiduklubi", "Hiired tuules", "Joonistatud mees". Info festivalist: www.rabarock.delfi.ee / www.rabarock.ee

Can NT-proBNP be used as a criterion for heart failure hospitalization in emergency room?

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Tuba Cimilli Ozturk

2011-01-01

Conclusions: NT-proBNP can be used as an easy diagnostic method for congestive heart failure. A certain cut-off value may be determined in further multi-centre controlled trials with larger patient groups.

The relationship of Chlamydophila pneumoniae with schizophrenia: The role of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) in this relationship.

Science.gov (United States)

Kalayci, Fatma; Ozdemir, Armagan; Saribas, Suat; Yuksel, Pelin; Ergin, Sevgi; Kuskucu, Ali Mert; Poyraz, Cana Aksoy; Balcioglu, Ibrahim; Alpay, Nihat; Kurt, Aykut; Sezgin, Zeynep; Kocak, Banu Tufan; Icel, Rana Sucu; Can, Gunay; Tokman, Hrisi Bahar; Kocazeybek, Bekir

Several pathogens have been suspected of playing a role in the pathogenesis of schizophrenia. Chronic inflammation has been proposed to occur as a result of persistent infection caused by Chlamydophila pneumoniae cells that reside in brain endothelial cells for many years. It was recently hypothesized that brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) may play prominent roles in the development of schizophrenia. NT-3 and BDNF levels have been suggested to change in response to various manifestations of infection. Therefore, we aimed to elucidate the roles of BDNF and NT3 in the schizophrenia-C. pneumoniae infection relationship. RT-PCR, immunofluorescence and ELISA methods were used. Fifty patients suffering from schizophrenia and 35 healthy individuals were included as the patient group (PG) and the healthy control group (HCG), respectively. We detected persistent infection in 14 of the 50 individuals in the PG and in 1 of the 35 individuals in the HCG. A significant difference was found between the two groups (p0.05). C. pneumoniae DNA was not detected in any group. A significant difference in NT-3 levels was observed between the groups, with very low levels in the PG (p0.05). In conclusion, we suggest that NT-3 levels during persistent C. pneumoniae infection may play a role in this relationship. Copyright © 2016 Asociación Argentina de Microbiología. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

The ability of NT-proBNP to detect chronic heart failure and predict all-cause mortality is higher in elderly Chinese coronary artery disease patients with chronic kidney disease

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Fu S

2013-04-01

Full Text Available Shihui Fu, Leiming Luo, Ping Ye, Shuangyan Yi, Yuan Liu, Bing Zhu, Liang Wang, Tiehui Xiao, Yongyi Bai Department of Geriatric Cardiology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China Objective: To analyze the relationship between N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP and renal function, and compare the ability and cut-off thresholds of NT-proBNP to detect chronic heart failure (CHF and predict mortality in elderly Chinese coronary artery disease (CAD patients with and without chronic kidney disease (CKD. Methods: The study included 999 CAD patients older than 60 years. The endpoint was all-cause mortality over a mean follow-up period of 417 days. Results: The median age was 86 years (range: 60–104 years, and the median NT-proBNP level was 409.8 pg/mL. CKD was present in 358 patients. Three hundred and six patients were positive for CHF. One hundred and ten CKD patients and 105 non-CKD patients died. Not only CKD, but also estimated glomerular filtration rate independently affected NT-proBNP. NT-proBNP detected CHF with a cut-off value of 298.4 pg/mL in non-CKD patients and a cut-off value of 435.7 pg/mL in CKD patients. NT-proBNP predicted death with a cut-off value of 369.5 pg/mL in non-CKD patients and a cut-off value of 2584.1 pg/mL in CKD patients. The NT-proBNP level was significantly related to the prevalence of CHF and all-cause mortality in CAD patients with and without CKD; this effect persisted after adjustment. The crude and multiple adjusted hazard ratios of NT-proBNP to detect CHF and predict mortality were significantly higher in patients with CKD compared with the remainder of the population. The addition of NT-proBNP to the three-variable and six-variable models generated a significant increase in the C-statistic. Conclusion: Amongst elderly Chinese CAD patients, there was an independently inverse association between NT-proBNP and renal function. With the higher cutoff points, NT

Relation of left ventricular function, mass, and volume to NT-proBNP in type 1 diabetic patients

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Astrup, A.S.; Kim, W.Y.; Tarnow, L.

2008-01-01

OBJECTIVES: To measure left ventricular mass (LVM), left ventricular volumes, and left ventricular function (LVF) in a cohort of type 1 diabetic patients and to correlate measures of imaging to NH(2)-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP). RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: In a cross......-sectional study, all patients with type 1 diabetes underwent cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging. We included 63 patients with diabetic nephropathy and 73 patients with normoalbuminuria. RESULTS: All patients had normal global LVF. LVM was increased in patients with diabetic nephropathy compared...... is identified in asymptomatic type 1 diabetic patients with nephropathy compared with normoalbuminuric patients. Elevated levels of NT-proBNP were associated with increased LVM, which are both markers of increased cardiovascular risk Udgivelsesdato: 2008/5...

Sezary syndrome cells unlike normal circulating T lymphocytes fail to migrate following engagement of NT1 receptor.

Science.gov (United States)

Magazin, Marilyn; Poszepczynska-Guigné, Ewa; Bagot, Martine; Boumsell, Laurence; Pruvost, Christelle; Chalon, Pascale; Culouscou, Jean-Michel; Ferrara, Pascual; Bensussan, Armand

2004-01-01

Circulating malignant Sezary cells are a clonal proliferation of CD4+CD45RO+ T lymphocytes primarily involving the skin. To study the biology of these malignant T lymphocytes, we tested their ability to migrate in chemotaxis assays. Previously, we had shown that the neuropeptide neurotensin (NT) binds to freshly isolated Sezary malignant cells and induces through NT1 receptors the cell migration of the cutaneous T cell lymphoma cell line Cou-L. Here, we report that peripheral blood Sezary cells as well as the Sezary cell line Pno fail to migrate in response to neurotensin although they are capable of migrating to the chemokine stromal-cell-derived factor 1 alpha. This is in contrast with normal circulating CD4+ or CD8+ lymphocytes, which respond to both types of chemoattractants except after ex vivo short-time anti-CD3 monoclonal antibody activation, which abrogates the neurotensin-induced lymphocyte migration. Furthermore, we demonstrate that neurotensin-responsive T lymphocytes express the functional NT1 receptor responsible for chemotaxis. In these cells, but not in Sezary cells, neurotensin induces recruitment of phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase, and redistribution of phosphorylated cytoplasmic tyrosine kinase focal adhesion kinase and filamentous actin. Taken together, these results, which show functional distinctions between normal circulating lymphocytes and Sezary syndrome cells, contribute to further understanding of the physiopathology of these atypical cells.

Detection of NT-pro BNP using fluorescent protein modified by streptavidin as a label in immunochromatographic assay

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Haixia Li

2016-12-01

Full Text Available A novel fluorescent immunochromatographic assay for the detection of NT-proBNP in human serum has been developed. Based on a sandwich-type immunoassay format, analytes in samples were captured by one monoclonal antibody labeled with fluorescent protein and “sandwiched” by another monoclonal antibody immobilized on the nitrocellulose membrane, the fluorescence and concentration of analytes were measured and then calculated by fluoroanalyzer. The fluorescent protein is a fusion protein and was prepared through the application of Streptavidin gene SA, β subunit cpcB of Phycocyanin, lyase alr0617, and phycoerythrobilin synthetase gene ho1, pebA, pebB for covalent binding. It is characterized with higher stability, good solubility in water and it is not easy to quench fluorescence. Take the advantages of fluorescent protein, the immunochromatographic assay exhibited a wide linear range for NT-proBNP from 200 pg ml−1 to 26,000 pg ml−1, with a detection limit of 47 pg ml−1 under optimal conditions. Compared with chemiluminescence immunoassay (CLIA, 131 human serum samples were analyzed and the correlation coefficient of the developed immunoassay was 0.978. These results demonstrated that fluorescent immunochromatographic assay is a more rapid, sensitive, specific method and could be developed into a platform for more biomarkers determination in clinical practice. Keywords: NT-pro BNP, Fluorescent protein, Immunochromatographic assay

PREFACE: 12th Russia/CIS/Baltic/Japan Symposium on Ferroelectricity and 9th International Conference on Functional Materials and Nanotechnologies (RCBJSF-2014-FM&NT)

Science.gov (United States)

Sternberg, Andris; Grinberga, Liga; Sarakovskis, Anatolijs; Rutkis, Martins

2015-03-01

The joint International Symposium RCBJSF-2014-FM&NT successfully has united two international events - 12th Russia/CIS/Baltic/Japan Symposium on Ferroelectricity (RCBJSF-12) and 9th International Conference Functional Materials and Nanotechnologies (FM&NT-2014). The RCBJSF symposium is a continuation of series of meetings on ferroelectricity, the first of which took place in Novosibirsk (USSR) in 1976. FM&NT conferences started in 2006 and have been organized by Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia in Riga. In 2012 the International program committee decided to transform this conference into a traveling Baltic State conference and the FM&NT-2013 was organized by the Institute of Physics, University of Tartu, Estonia. In 2014 the joint international symposium RCBJSF-2014-FM&NT was organized by the Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia and was part of Riga - 2014, the European Capital of Culture event. The purpose of the joint Symposium was to bring together scientists, students and high-level experts in solid state physics, materials science, engineering and related disciplines. The number of the registered participants from 26 countries was over 350. During the Symposium 128 high quality scientific talks (5 plenary, 42 invited, 81 oral) and over 215 posters were presented. All presentations were divided into 4 parallel sessions according to 4 main topics of the Symposium: Ferroelectricity, including ferroelectrics and multiferroics, pyroelectrics, piezoelectrics and actuators, integrated ferroelectrics, relaxors, phase transitions and critical phenomena. Multifunctional Materials, including theory, multiscale and multiphenomenal material modeling and simulation, advanced inorganic, organic and hybrid materials. Nanotechnologies, including progressive methods, technologies and design for production, investigation of nano- particles, composites, structures, thin films and coatings. Energy, including perspective materials and

Study on ( n,t) Reactions of Zr, Nb and Ta Nuclei

Science.gov (United States)

Tel, E.; Yiğit, M.; Tanır, G.

2012-04-01

The world faces serious energy shortages in the near future. To meet the world energy demand, the nuclear fusion with safety, environmentally acceptability and economic is the best suited. Fusion is attractive as an energy source because of the virtually inexhaustible supply of fuel, the promise of minimal adverse environmental impact, and its inherent safety. Fusion will not produce CO2 or SO2 and thus will not contribute to global warming or acid rain. Furthermore, there are not radioactive nuclear waste problems in the fusion reactors. Although there have been significant research and development studies on the inertial and magnetic fusion reactor technology, there is still a long way to go to penetrate commercial fusion reactors to the energy market. Because, tritium self-sufficiency must be maintained for a commercial power plant. For self-sustaining (D-T) fusion driver tritium breeding ratio should be greater than 1.05. And also, the success of fusion power system is dependent on performance of the first wall, blanket or divertor systems. So, the performance of structural materials for fusion power systems, understanding nuclear properties systematic and working out of ( n,t) reaction cross sections are very important. Zirconium (Zr), Niobium (Nb) and Tantal (Ta) containing alloys are important structural materials for fusion reactors, accelerator-driven systems, and many other fields. In this study, ( n,t) reactions for some structural fusion materials such as 88,90,92,94,96Zr, 93,94,95Nb and 179,181Ta have been investigated. The calculated results are discussed andcompared with the experimental data taken from the literature.

Frukt og grønt i mat og helsefaget. En casestudie

OpenAIRE

Kristoffersen, Mirjam

2016-01-01

Masteroppgave i fysisk aktivitet og kosthold i et skolemiljø Bakgrunn og hensikt: Studier viser at barn og unge har et for lavt inntak av frukt og grønt i forhold til hva som er anbefalt. Skolen er en arena hvor en kan nå mange med kunnskap om hvorfor en bør spise mer frukt og grønnsaker. Spesielt faget mat og helse kan bidra til å belyse temaet gjennom undervisningen. Hensikten med denne studien er å bidra med kunnskap om hva som blir brukt av frukt og grønnsaker og hvordan det blir benyt...

NT-pro-BNP is associated with inducible myocardial ischemia in mildly symptomatic type 2 diabetic patients

NARCIS (Netherlands)

Wiersma, Jacobijne J.; van der Zee, P. Marc; van Straalen, Jan P.; Fischer, Johan C.; van Eck-Smit, Berthe L. F.; Tijssen, Jan G. P.; Trip, Mieke D.; Piek, Jan J.; Verberne, Hein J.

2010-01-01

Baseline levels of N-terminal fragment of the brain natriuretic peptide prohormone (NT-pro-BNP) are associated with myocardial ischemia in non-diabetic patients with stable angina pectoris. A total of 281 patients with diabetes mellitus type 2 and stable angina pectoris underwent myocardial

NT-proBNP, C-reactive protein and soluble uPAR in a bi-ethnic male population

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Kruger, Ruan; Schutte, Rudolph; Huisman, Hugo W

2013-01-01

This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate associations between a marker of cardiac strain, the N-terminal prohormone B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), and inflammation as reflected by either a conventional or novel inflammatory marker in a bi-ethnic South African cohort....

Activation of sodium channels by α-scorpion toxin, BmK NT1, produced neurotoxicity in cerebellar granule cells: an association with intracellular Ca2+ overloading.

Science.gov (United States)

He, Yuwei; Zou, Xiaohan; Li, Xichun; Chen, Juan; Jin, Liang; Zhang, Fan; Yu, Boyang; Cao, Zhengyu

2017-02-01

Voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSCs) are responsible for the action potential generation in excitable cells including neurons and involved in many physiological and pathological processes. Scorpion toxins are invaluable tools to explore the structure and function of ion channels. BmK NT1, a scorpion toxin from Buthus martensii Karsch, stimulates sodium influx in cerebellar granule cells (CGCs). In this study, we characterized the mode of action of BmK NT1 on the VGSCs and explored the cellular response in CGC cultures. BmK NT1 delayed the fast inactivation of VGSCs, increased the Na + currents, and shifted the steady-state activation and inactivation to more hyperpolarized membrane potential, which was similar to the mode of action of α-scorpion toxins. BmK NT1 stimulated neuron death (EC 50  = 0.68 µM) and produced massive intracellular Ca 2+ overloading (EC 50  = 0.98 µM). TTX abrogated these responses, suggesting that both responses were subsequent to the activation of VGSCs. The Ca 2+ response of BmK NT1 was primary through extracellular Ca 2+ influx since reducing the extracellular Ca 2+ concentration suppressed the Ca 2+ response. Further pharmacological evaluation demonstrated that BmK NT1-induced Ca 2+ influx and neurotoxicity were partially blocked either by MK-801, an NMDA receptor blocker, or by KB-R7943, an inhibitor of Na + /Ca 2+ exchangers. Nifedipine, an L-type Ca 2+ channel inhibitor, slightly suppressed both Ca 2+ response and neurotoxicity. A combination of these three inhibitors abrogated both responses. Considered together, these data ambiguously demonstrated that activation of VGSCs by an α-scorpion toxin was sufficient to produce neurotoxicity which was associated with intracellular Ca 2+ overloading through both NMDA receptor- and Na + /Ca 2+ exchanger-mediated Ca 2+ influx.

A New Method for Blood NT-proBNP Determination Based on a Near-infrared Point of Care Testing Device with High Sensitivity and Wide Scope.

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Zhang, Xiao Guang; Shu, Yao Gen; Gao, Ju; Wang, Xuan; Liu, Li Peng; Wang, Meng; Cao, Yu Xi; Zeng, Yi

2017-06-01

To develop a rapid, highly sensitive, and quantitative method for the detection of NT-proBNP levels based on a near-infrared point-of-care diagnostic (POCT) device with wide scope. The lateral flow assay (LFA) strip of NT-proBNP was first prepared to achieve rapid detection. Then, the antibody pairs for NT-proBNP were screened and labeled with the near-infrared fluorescent dye Dylight-800. The capture antibody was fixed on a nitrocellulose membrane by a scribing device. Serial dilutions of serum samples were prepared using NT-proBNP-free serum series. The prepared test strips, combined with a near-infrared POCT device, were validated by known concentrations of clinical samples. The POCT device gave the output of the ratio of the intensity of the fluorescence signal of the detection line to that of the quality control line. The relationship between the ratio value and the concentration of the specimen was plotted as a work curve. The results of 62 clinical specimens obtained from our method were compared in parallel with those obtained from the Roche E411 kit. Based on the log-log plot, the new method demonstrated that there was a good linear relationship between the ratio value and NT-proBNP concentrations ranging from 20 pg/mL to 10 ng/mL. The results of the 62 clinical specimens measured by our method showed a good linear correlation with those measured by the Roche E411 kit. The new LFA detection method of NT-proBNP levels based on the near-infrared POCT device was rapid and highly sensitive with wide scope and was thus suitable for rapid and early clinical diagnosis of cardiac impairment. Copyright © 2017 The Editorial Board of Biomedical and Environmental Sciences. Published by China CDC. All rights reserved.

The relationship of plasma creatinine (as eGFR) and high-sensitivity cardiac troponin and NT-proBNP concentrations in a hospital and community outpatient population.

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Potter, Julia M; Simpson, Aaron J; Kerrigan, Jennifer; Southcott, Emma; Salib, Marie M; Koerbin, Gus; Hickman, Peter E

2017-10-01

While persons with overt renal failure have a well-described rise in troponin and NT-proBNP, it is less well described what the relationship is between cardiac markers and persons with impaired renal function, not requiring dialysis. We have collected ALL samples referred to our pathology practice over a 24h period and measured hs-cTnI, hs-cTnT, NT-proBNP, calculated the eGFR, and related our measurements to clinical outcomes. For both men and women, for all of hs-cTnI, hs-cTnT and NT-proBNP, there was a graded response, as renal function worsened, the concentration of the cardiac marker increased. There is a graded inverse relationship between eGFR and the concentrations of hs-cTnI, hs-cTnT and NT-proBNP. For women only there appeared to be an increase in mortality at lowest eGFR. Copyright © 2017 The Canadian Society of Clinical Chemists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Skeletal Muscle PGC1α -1 Nucleosome Position and -260 nt DNA Methylation Determine Exercise Response and Prevent Ectopic Lipid Accumulation in Men.

Science.gov (United States)

Bajpeyi, Sudip; Covington, Jeffrey D; Taylor, Erin M; Stewart, Laura K; Galgani, Jose E; Henagan, Tara M

2017-07-01

Endurance exercise has been shown to improve lipid oxidation and increase mitochondrial content in skeletal muscle, two features that have shown dependence on increased expression of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator 1α (PGC1α). It is also hypothesized that exercise-related alterations in PGC1α expression occur through epigenetic regulation of nucleosome positioning in association with differential DNA methylation status within the PGC1α promoter. In this study, we show that when primary human myotubes from obese patients with type 2 diabetes are exposed to lipolytic stimulus (palmitate, forskolin, inomycin) in vitro, nucleosome occupancy surrounding the -260 nucleotide (nt) region, a known regulatory DNA methylation site, is reduced. This finding is reproduced in vivo in the vastus lateralis from 11 healthy males after a single, long endurance exercise bout in which participants expended 650 kcal. Additionally, we show a significant positive correlation between fold change of PGC1α messenger RNA expression and -1 nucleosome repositioning away from the -260 nt methylation site in skeletal muscle tissue following exercise. Finally, we found that when exercise participants are divided into high and low responders based on the -260 nt methylation status, the -1 nucleosome is repositioned away from the regulatory -260 nt methylation site in high responders, those exhibiting a significant decrease in -260 nt methylation, but not in low responders. Additionally, high but not low responders showed a significant decrease in intramyocellular lipid content after exercise. These findings suggest a potential target for epigenetic modification of the PGC1α promoter to stimulate the therapeutic effects of endurance exercise in skeletal muscle. Copyright © 2017 Endocrine Society.

Characterization of ectonucleotidases in human medulloblastoma cell lines: ecto-5'NT/CD73 in metastasis as potential prognostic factor.

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Angélica Regina Cappellari

Full Text Available Medulloblastoma (MB is the most common malignant brain tumor in children and occurs mainly in the cerebellum. Important intracellular signaling molecules, such those present in the Sonic Hedgehog and Wnt pathways, are involved in its development and can also be employed to determine tumor grade and prognosis. Ectonucleotidases, particularly ecto-5'NT/CD73, are important enzymes in the malignant process of different tumor types regulating extracellular ATP and adenosine levels. Here, we investigated the activity of ectonucleotidases in three malignant human cell lines: Daoy and ONS76, being representative of primary MB, and the D283 cell line, derived from a metastatic MB. All cell lines secreted ATP into the extracellular medium while hydrolyze poorly this nucleotide, which is in agreement with the low expression and activity of pyrophosphate/phosphodiesterase, NTPDases and alkaline phosphatase. The analysis of AMP hydrolysis showed that Daoy and ONS76 completely hydrolyzed AMP, with parallel adenosine production (Daoy and inosine accumulation (ONS76. On the other hand, D283 cell line did not hydrolyze AMP. Moreover, primary MB tumor cells, Daoy and ONS76 express the ecto-5'NT/CD73 while D283 representative of a metastatic tumor, revealed poor expression of this enzyme, while the ecto-adenosine deaminase showed higher expression in D283 compared to Daoy and ONS76 cells. Nuclear beta-catenin has been suggested as a marker for MB prognosis. Further it can promotes expression of ecto-5'NT/CD73 and suppression of adenosine deaminase. It was observed that Daoy and ONS76 showed greater nuclear beta-catenin immunoreactivity than D283, which presented mainly cytoplasmic immunoreactivity. In summary, the absence of ecto-5'NT/CD73 in the D283 cell line, a metastatic MB phenotype, suggests that high expression levels of this ectonucleotidase could be correlated with a poor prognosis in patients with MB.

NT-proBNP is associated with coronary heart disease risk in healthy older women but fails to enhance prediction beyond established risk factors: results from the British Women's Heart and Health Study.

Science.gov (United States)

Sattar, Naveed; Welsh, Paul; Sarwar, Nadeem; Danesh, John; Di Angelantonio, Emanuele; Gudnason, Vilmundur; Davey Smith, George; Ebrahim, Shah; Lawlor, Debbie A

2010-03-01

Limited evidence suggests NT-proBNP improves prediction of coronary heart disease (CHD) events but further data are needed, especially in people without pre-existing CHD and in women. We measured NT-proBNP in serum from 162 women with incident CHD events and 1226 controls (60-79 years) in a case-control study nested within the prospective British Women's Heart and Health Study. All cases and controls were free from CHD at baseline. We related NT-proBNP to CHD event risk, and determined to what extent NT-proBNP enhanced CHD risk prediction beyond established risk factors. The odds ratio for CHD per 1 standard deviation increase in log(e)NT-proBNP was 1.37 (95% CI: 1.13-1.68) in analyses adjusted for established CHD risk factors, social class, CRP and insulin. However, addition of log(e)NT-proBNP did not improve the discrimination of a prediction model including age, social class, smoking, physical activity, lipids, fasting glucose, waist:hip ratio, hypertension, statin and aspirin use, nor a standard Framingham risk score model; area under the receiver operator curve for the former model increased from 0.676 to 0.687 on inclusion of NT-proBNP (p=0.3). Furthermore, adding NT-proBNP did not improve calibration of a prediction model containing established risk factors, nor did inclusion more appropriately re-classify participants in relation to their final outcome. Findings were similar (independent associations, but no prediction improvement) for fasting insulin and CRP. These results caution against use of NT-proBNP for CHD risk prediction in healthy women and suggest a need for larger studies in both genders to resolve outstanding uncertainties.

Investigation into Regeneration Mechanism of Hydroalcoholic Lavender (Lavandula officianalis Extract through the Evaluation of NT3 Gene Expression after Sciatic Nerve Compression in Rats

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Fereshteh Naderi Allaf

2017-05-01

Full Text Available Abstract Background: Retrograde transport to the alpha motoneurons causes spinal degeneration. The neurotrophic factor (NT3 increases the number of myelinated axons in the dorsal root, leads to differentiation and survival of sensory neurons, parasympathetic motoneurons and prevents cell death. Lavender is a plant in the family Lamiaceae which is reported to have antioxidant, antispasmodic, diuretic, anti-asthmatic, refrigerant, and antipyretic effects. This study examined NT3 gene expression changes after sciatic nerve compression in rats, in the presence of Lavandula officinalis extract. Materials and Methods: Lavender Soxhlet hydroalcoholic extraction was prepared. 36 male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 3 groups including control, compression and treatment (compression group + hydroalcoholic extract of Lavender injections 75mg/kg groups. In controls the muscle was opened without damage to gain access to the sciatic nerve. In compression and treatment groups, the sciatic nerve (right leg was compressed. The extract was injected intraperitoneally in two occasions. A biopsy was taken from the spinal cord segments L4-L6 on day 28, total RNA was extracted and cDNA was synthesized and NT3 gene expression changes were analyzed by ANOVA test by using SPSS software. Results: The results showed that NT3 gene expression had a significant reduction in compression group compared to the control group (p<0.001 and it had a significant increase in treatment group compared with the compression group (p<0.001. Conclusion: A significant increase in gene expression shows that Lavandula officinalis hydroalcoholic extract improves nerve regeneration via NT3 gene expression.

Widespread expression of BDNF but not NT3 by target areas of basal forebrain cholinergic neurons

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Phillips, H.S.; Hains, J.M.; Laramee, G.R.; Rosenthal, A.; Winslow, J.W. (Genentech, San Francisco, CA (USA))

1990-10-12

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and neurotrophin-3 (NT3) are homologs of the well-known neurotrophic factor nerve growth factor. The three members of this family display distinct patterns of target specificity. To examine the distribution in brain of messenger RNA for these molecules, in situ hybridization was performed. Cells hybridizing intensely to antisense BDNF probe were located throughout the major targets of the rat basal forebrain cholinergic system, that is, the hippocampus, amygdala, and neocortex. Strongly hybridizing cells were also observed in structures associated with the olfactory system. The distribution of NT3 mRNA in forebrain was much more limited. Within the hippocampus, labeled cells were restricted to CA2, the most medial portion of CA1, and the dentate gyrus. In human hippocampus, cells expressing BDNF and mRNA are distributed in a fashion similar to that observed in the rat. These findings point to both basal forebrain cholinergic cells and olfactory pathways as potential central targets for BDNF.

Widespread expression of BDNF but not NT3 by target areas of basal forebrain cholinergic neurons

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Phillips, H.S.; Hains, J.M.; Laramee, G.R.; Rosenthal, A.; Winslow, J.W.

1990-01-01

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and neurotrophin-3 (NT3) are homologs of the well-known neurotrophic factor nerve growth factor. The three members of this family display distinct patterns of target specificity. To examine the distribution in brain of messenger RNA for these molecules, in situ hybridization was performed. Cells hybridizing intensely to antisense BDNF probe were located throughout the major targets of the rat basal forebrain cholinergic system, that is, the hippocampus, amygdala, and neocortex. Strongly hybridizing cells were also observed in structures associated with the olfactory system. The distribution of NT3 mRNA in forebrain was much more limited. Within the hippocampus, labeled cells were restricted to CA2, the most medial portion of CA1, and the dentate gyrus. In human hippocampus, cells expressing BDNF and mRNA are distributed in a fashion similar to that observed in the rat. These findings point to both basal forebrain cholinergic cells and olfactory pathways as potential central targets for BDNF

Motivation and treatment credibility predict alliance in cognitive behavioral treatment for youth with anxiety disorders in community clinics.

Science.gov (United States)

Fjermestad, K W; Lerner, M D; McLeod, B D; Wergeland, G J H; Haugland, B S M; Havik, O E; Öst, L-G; Silverman, W K

2017-11-16

We examined whether motivation and treatment credibility predicted alliance in a 10-session cognitive behavioral treatment delivered in community clinics for youth anxiety disorders. Ninety-one clinic-referred youths (mean age  = 11.4 years, standard deviation = 2.1, range 8-15 years, 49.5% boys) with anxiety disorders-rated treatment motivation at pretreatment and perceived treatment credibility after session 1. Youths and therapists (YT) rated alliance after session 3 (early) and session 7 (late). Hierarchical linear models were applied to examine whether motivation and treatment credibility predicted YT early alliance, YT alliance change, and YT alliance agreement. Motivation predicted high early YT alliance, but not YT alliance change or alliance agreement. Youth-rated treatment credibility predicted high early youth alliance and high YT positive alliance change, but not early therapist alliance or alliance agreement. Conclusion Efforts to enhance youth motivation and treatment credibility early in treatment could facilitate the formation of a strong YT alliance. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The relationship of Chlamydophila pneumoniae with schizophrenia: The role of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) in this relationship

OpenAIRE

Kalayci, Fatma; Ozdemir, Armagan; Saribas, Suat; Yuksel, Pelin; Ergin, Sevgi; Mert Kuskucu, Ali; Aksoy Poyraz, Cana; Balcioglu, Ibrahim; Alpay, Nihat; Kurt, Aykut; Sezgin, Zeynep; Tufan Kocak, Banu; Sucu Icel, Rana; Can, Gunay; Bahar Tokman, Hrisi

2017-01-01

Several pathogens have been suspected of playing a role in the pathogenesis of schizophrenia. Chronic inflammation has been proposed to occur as a result of persistent infection caused by Chlamydophila pneumoniae cells that reside in brain endothelial cells for many years. It was recently hypothesized that brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) may play prominent roles in the development of schizophrenia. NT-3 and BDNF levels have been suggested to change in respon...

PONTIAC (NT-proBNP selected prevention of cardiac events in a population of diabetic patients without a history of cardiac disease): a prospective randomized controlled trial.

Science.gov (United States)

Huelsmann, Martin; Neuhold, Stephanie; Resl, Michael; Strunk, Guido; Brath, Helmut; Francesconi, Claudia; Adlbrecht, Christopher; Prager, Rudolf; Luger, Anton; Pacher, Richard; Clodi, Martin

2013-10-08

The study sought to assess the primary preventive effect of neurohumoral therapy in high-risk diabetic patients selected by N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP). Few clinical trials have successfully demonstrated the prevention of cardiac events in patients with diabetes. One reason for this might be an inaccurate selection of patients. NT-proBNP has not been assessed in this context. A total of 300 patients with type 2 diabetes, elevated NT-proBNP (>125 pg/ml) but free of cardiac disease were randomized. The "control" group was cared for at 4 diabetes care units; the "intensified" group was additionally treated at a cardiac outpatient clinic for the up-titration of renin-angiotensin system (RAS) antagonists and beta-blockers. The primary endpoint was hospitalization/death due to cardiac disease after 2 years. At baseline, the mean age of the patients was 67.5 ± 9 years, duration of diabetes was 15 ± 12 years, 37% were male, HbA1c was 7 ± 1.1%, blood pressure was 151 ± 22 mm Hg, heart rate was 72 ± 11 beats/min, median NT-proBNP was 265.5 pg/ml (interquartile range: 180.8 to 401.8 pg/ml). After 12 months there was a significant difference between the number of patients treated with a RAS antagonist/beta-blocker and the dosage reached between groups (p titration of RAS antagonists and beta-blockers to maximum tolerated dosages is an effective and safe intervention for the primary prevention of cardiac events for diabetic patients pre-selected using NT-proBNP. (Nt-proBNP Guided Primary Prevention of CV Events in Diabetic Patients [PONTIAC]; NCT00562952). Copyright © 2013 American College of Cardiology Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Elevated NT-pro-brain natriuretic peptide level is independently associated with all-cause mortality in HIV-infected women in the early and recent HAART eras in the Women's Interagency HIV Study cohort.

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Matthew R Gingo

Full Text Available HIV-infected individuals are at increased risk of right and left heart dysfunction. N-terminal-pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP, a marker of cardiac ventricular strain and systolic dysfunction, may be associated with all-cause mortality in HIV-infected women. The aim of this study was to determine if elevated levels of NT-proBNP is associated with increased mortality in HIV-infected women.Prospective cohort study.We measured NT-proBNP in 936 HIV-infected and 387 age-matched HIV-uninfected women early (10/11/94 to 7/17/97 and 1082 HIV-infected and 448 HIV-uninfected women late (4/1/08 to 10/7/08 in the highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART periods in the Women's Interagency HIV Study. An NT-proBNP >75th percentile was more likely in HIV-infected persons, but only statistically significant in the late period (27% vs. 21%, unadjusted p = 0.03. In HIV-infected participants, NT-proBNP>75th percentile was independently associated with worse 5-year survival in the early HAART period (HR 1.8, 95% CI 1.3-2.4, p<0.001 and remained a predictor of mortality in the late HAART period (HR 2.8, 95% CI 1.4-5.5, p = 0.002 independent of other established risk covariates (age, race/ethnicity, body mass index, smoking, hepatitis C serostatus, hypertension, renal function, and hemoglobin. NT-proBNP level was not associated with mortality in HIV-uninfected women.NT-proBNP is a novel independent marker of mortality in HIV-infected women both when HAART was first introduced and currently. As NT-proBNP is often associated with both pulmonary hypertension and left ventricular dysfunction, these findings suggest that these conditions may contribute significantly to adverse outcomes in this population, requiring further definition of causes and treatments of elevated NT-proBNP in HIV-infected women.

Inflammation and pancreatic cancer: molecular and functional interactions between S100A8, S100A9, NT-S100A8 and TGFβ1.

Science.gov (United States)

Basso, Daniela; Bozzato, Dania; Padoan, Andrea; Moz, Stefania; Zambon, Carlo-Federico; Fogar, Paola; Greco, Eliana; Scorzeto, Michele; Simonato, Francesca; Navaglia, Filippo; Fassan, Matteo; Pelloso, Michela; Dupont, Sirio; Pedrazzoli, Sergio; Fassina, Ambrogio; Plebani, Mario

2014-03-26

In order to gain further insight on the crosstalk between pancreatic cancer (PDAC) and stromal cells, we investigated interactions occurring between TGFβ1 and the inflammatory proteins S100A8, S100A9 and NT-S100A8, a PDAC-associated S100A8 derived peptide, in cell signaling, intracellular calcium (Cai2+) and epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT). NF-κB, Akt and mTOR pathways, Cai2+ and EMT were studied in well (Capan1 and BxPC3) and poorly differentiated (Panc1 and MiaPaCa2) cell lines. NT-S100A8, one of the low molecular weight N-terminal peptides from S100A8 to be released by PDAC-derived proteases, shared many effects on NF-κB, Akt and mTOR signaling with S100A8, but mainly with TGFβ1. The chief effects of S100A8, S100A9 and NT-S100A8 were to inhibit NF-κB and stimulate mTOR; the molecules inhibited Akt in Smad4-expressing, while stimulated Akt in Smad4 negative cells. By restoring Smad4 expression in BxPC3 and silencing it in MiaPaCa2, S100A8 and NT-S100A8 were shown to inhibit NF-κB and Akt in the presence of an intact TGFβ1 canonical signaling pathway. TGFβ1 counteracted S100A8, S100A9 and NT-S100A8 effects in Smad4 expressing, not in Smad4 negative cells, while it synergized with NT-S100A8 in altering Cai2+ and stimulating PDAC cell growth. The effects of TGFβ1 on both EMT (increased Twist and decreased N-Cadherin expression) and Cai2+ were antagonized by S100A9, which formed heterodimers with TGFβ1 (MALDI-TOF/MS and co-immuno-precipitation). The effects of S100A8 and S100A9 on PDAC cell signaling appear to be cell-type and context dependent. NT-S100A8 mimics the effects of TGFβ1 on cell signaling, and the formation of complexes between TGFβ1 with S100A9 appears to be the molecular mechanism underlying the reciprocal antagonism of these molecules on cell signaling, Cai2+ and EMT.

12th Russia/CIS/Baltic/Japan Symposium on Ferroelectricity and 9th International Conference on Functional Materials and Nanotechnologies (RCBJSF–2014–FM and NT)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sternberg, Andris; Grinberga, Liga; Sarakovskis, Anatolijs; Rutkis, Martins

2015-01-01

The joint International Symposium RCBJSF–2014–FM and NT successfully has united two international events – 12th Russia/CIS/Baltic/Japan Symposium on Ferroelectricity (RCBJSF-12) and 9th International Conference Functional Materials and Nanotechnologies (FM and NT-2014). The RCBJSF symposium is a continuation of series of meetings on ferroelectricity, the first of which took place in Novosibirsk (USSR) in 1976. FM and NT conferences started in 2006 and have been organized by Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia in Riga. In 2012 the International program committee decided to transform this conference into a traveling Baltic State conference and the FM and NT-2013 was organized by the Institute of Physics, University of Tartu, Estonia. In 2014 the joint international symposium RCBJSF–2014–FM and NT was organized by the Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia and was part of Riga – 2014, the European Capital of Culture event. The purpose of the joint Symposium was to bring together scientists, students and high-level experts in solid state physics, materials science, engineering and related disciplines. The number of the registered participants from 26 countries was over 350. During the Symposium 128 high quality scientific talks (5 plenary, 42 invited, 81 oral) and over 215 posters were presented. All presentations were divided into 4 parallel sessions according to 4 main topics of the Symposium: Ferroelectricity, including ferroelectrics and multiferroics, pyroelectrics, piezoelectrics and actuators, integrated ferroelectrics, relaxors, phase transitions and critical phenomena. Multifunctional Materials, including theory, multiscale and multiphenomenal material modeling and simulation, advanced inorganic, organic and hybrid materials. Nanotechnologies, including progressive methods, technologies and design for production, investigation of nano- particles, composites, structures, thin films and coatings. Energy, including

The Significance of the Cardiac Peptide NT-proBNP in the Assessment of Risk for Myocardial Revascularization in Patients with Decreased Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction

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V. V. Moroz

2010-01-01

Full Text Available Objective: to substantiate a procedure for predicting the severity of postperfusion acute heart failure (AHF from the baseline level of NT-proBNP during myocardial revascularization in patients with a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF of less than 35%. Subjects and materials. Fifty-six patients with a LVEF of less than 35% were examined. A total of 3.5±0.1 (range 2—4 coronary arteries were shunted under cardio-pulmonary bypass (CPB (71.0±5.5 min. The concentration of NT-proBNP was measured before surgery (Cardiac Reader®, Roche. Mortality rates, sympathomimetic agents’ dosages required after EC, and the frequency of use of intraaortic balloon pumping (IABP were analyzed. Results. A good clinical course was observed in 47 cases (Group 1. AHF was recorded in 9 patients (Group 2. Comparative analysis demonstrated that the preoperative concentration of NT-proBNP (871±111 pg/ml in Group 1 and 1946±236 pg/ml in Group 2 was of the highest prognostic value as compared with the traditional indicators (p=0.0015. Patients with a NT-proBNP concentration of less than 600 pg/ml did not virtually need inotropic therapy after EC. In a group with a biomarker level of 600—1200 mg/ml, the infusion of dopamine and dobutamine achieved the traditional cardiotonic dosages and every three patients needed epinephrine. With NT-proBNP of 1200-2000 pg/ml, mortality from AHF was 15.4%; a need for epinephrine and IABC was 46.4 and 7.7%, respectively. The peptide concentration of more than 2000 pg/ml indicated the extremely high risk of severe AHF. In the postperfusion period, each patient was given epinephrine and an IABC system was installed in half of them. In this group mortality achieved 50%. Conclusion. It is expedient to determine a preoperative NT-proBNP concentration in a LVEF of less than 35% to predict AHF to be occurred after myocardial revascularization. The concentration of less than 1200 pg/ml may be considered to be a safe level of the

Environmental Assessment: Space Innovation and Development Center Schriever AFB, Colorado

Science.gov (United States)

2006-03-01

coloradensis T Greenback cutthroat trout Oncorhynchus clarki stomias T Least tern (interior population) .A Sterna antillarum E Mexican spotted owl Strix...Haliaeetus leucocephalus T Boreal toad Bufo boreas boreas c Canada lynx Lynx canadensis T Greenback cutthroat trout Oncorhynchus clarki stomias T Least...T CUSTER Bald eagle IIaliaeetus leucocephalus T Canada lynx Lynx canadensis T Greenback cutthroat trout Oncorhynchus clarki stomias T Mexican

TeraTools: Multiparameter data acquisition software for the Windows 95/NT OS

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Piercey, R.B.

1997-01-01

TeraTools, a general purpose, multiparameter, data acquisition application for Windows 95NT is described. It is based on the Kmax architecture which has been used since 1986 on the Macintosh computer at numerous industrial, education, and research sites world-wide. TeraTools includes high-level support for industry-standard modular instrumentation; a built-in scripting language; drivers for commercially available interfaces; hooks for external code extensions; event file sorting and replay; and a full set of histogramming and display tools. The environment is scalable and may be applied to problems involving a few parameters or many parameters

Combining NT3-overexpressing MSCs and PLGA microcarriers for brain tissue engineering: A potential tool for treatment of Parkinson's disease.

Science.gov (United States)

Moradian, Hanieh; Keshvari, Hamid; Fasehee, Hamidreza; Dinarvand, Rassoul; Faghihi, Shahab

2017-07-01

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that characterized by destruction of substantia nigrostriatal pathway due to the loss of dopaminergic (DA) neurons. Regardless of substantial efforts for treatment of PD in recent years, an effective therapeutic strategy is still missing. In a multidisciplinary approach, bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) are genetically engineered to overexpress neurotrophin-3 (nt-3 gene) that protect central nervous system tissues and stimulates neuronal-like differentiation of BMSCs. Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microcarriers are designed as an injectable scaffold and synthesized via double emulsion method. The surface of PLGA microcarriers are functionalized by collagen as a bioadhesive agent for improved cell attachment. The results demonstrate effective overexpression of NT-3. The expression of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) in transfected BMSCs reveal that NT-3 promotes the intracellular signaling pathway of DA neuron differentiation. It is also shown that transfected BMSCs are successfully attached to the surface of microcarriers. The presence of dopamine in peripheral media of cell/microcarrier complex reveals that BMSCs are successfully differentiated into dopaminergic neuron. Our approach that sustains presence of growth factor can be suggested as a novel complementary therapeutic strategy for treatment of Parkinson disease. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Highly sensitive detection of NT-proBNP by molecular motor

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Jie Zhang

2017-03-01

Full Text Available FoF1-ATPase is an active rotary motor, and generates three-ATP for each rotation. At saturated substrate concentration, the motor can achieve about 103 r.p.m, which means one motor can generate about 105 ATP molecules during 30 min. Here, we constituted a novel nanodevice with a molecular rotary motor and a “battery”, FoF1-ATPase and chromatophore, and presented a novel method of sandwich type rotary biosensor based on ε subunit with one target-to-one motor, in which one target corresponds 105 ATP molecules as detection signals during 30 min. The target such as NT-proBNP detection demonstrated that this novel nanodevice has potential to be developed into an ultrasensitive biosensor to detect low expressed targets.

MIR@NT@N: a framework integrating transcription factors, microRNAs and their targets to identify sub-network motifs in a meta-regulation network model

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Wasserman Wyeth W

2011-03-01

Full Text Available Abstract Background To understand biological processes and diseases, it is crucial to unravel the concerted interplay of transcription factors (TFs, microRNAs (miRNAs and their targets within regulatory networks and fundamental sub-networks. An integrative computational resource generating a comprehensive view of these regulatory molecular interactions at a genome-wide scale would be of great interest to biologists, but is not available to date. Results To identify and analyze molecular interaction networks, we developed MIR@NT@N, an integrative approach based on a meta-regulation network model and a large-scale database. MIR@NT@N uses a graph-based approach to predict novel molecular actors across multiple regulatory processes (i.e. TFs acting on protein-coding or miRNA genes, or miRNAs acting on messenger RNAs. Exploiting these predictions, the user can generate networks and further analyze them to identify sub-networks, including motifs such as feedback and feedforward loops (FBL and FFL. In addition, networks can be built from lists of molecular actors with an a priori role in a given biological process to predict novel and unanticipated interactions. Analyses can be contextualized and filtered by integrating additional information such as microarray expression data. All results, including generated graphs, can be visualized, saved and exported into various formats. MIR@NT@N performances have been evaluated using published data and then applied to the regulatory program underlying epithelium to mesenchyme transition (EMT, an evolutionary-conserved process which is implicated in embryonic development and disease. Conclusions MIR@NT@N is an effective computational approach to identify novel molecular regulations and to predict gene regulatory networks and sub-networks including conserved motifs within a given biological context. Taking advantage of the M@IA environment, MIR@NT@N is a user-friendly web resource freely available at http

Changes in Serum NT-Pro BNP and Left Atrial BNP Levels after Percutaneous Transvenous Mitral Commissurotomy in Sinus Rhythm Versus Atrial Firilation

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Leili Pourafkari

2014-10-01

Full Text Available Introduction: Natriuretic peptides are secreted from the heart in response to increased wall stress. Their levels are expected to be increased in patients with mitral stenosis (MS due tohigh left atrium (LA pressure and pulmonary artery pressure (PAP. Percutaneous transvenousmitral commissurotomy (PTMC if successful is pursued by a rapid decrease in LA pressure andsubsequent decrease in pulmonary artery pressure. The concurrent changes in natriuretic peptidelevels could be affected with heart rhythm.Methods: Forty five patients with severe rheumatic MS undergoing PTMC were enrolled. Weevaluated the serum NT-Pro BNP levels before and 24 hours after PTMC. BNP levels were alsomeasured from the blood samples obtained from LA before and 20 minutes after the procedure.Changes in biomarkers were assessed based on heart rhythm and success of the procedure.Results: While serum NT-Pro BNP levels showed significant decrease 24 hours after theprocedure (P= 0.04, BNP levels taken 20 minutes after PTMC from LA were similar to theirbaseline concentrations (P= 0.26. NT-Pro BNP levels decreased 51.7±182.86 pg/ml for SR and123.4±520 pg/ml for AF (P= 0.68.Conclusion: Immediate changes in BNP levels did not predict the success of procedure probablydue to the additional balloon inflation attempts in LA in several patients and half-life of BNP. BNPlevels obtained later may be of more value considering the half-life of this marker. Heart rhythmwas not found to influence the changes in biomarker levels. BNP and NT-pro BNP changes werenot found to predict success of the procedure.

Modelo teórico e experimental da reciclagem do Carbono-13 em tecidos de mamíferos e aves Theorical and experimental model for Carbon-13 turnover in mammalian and avian tissues

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Carlos Ducatti

2002-03-01

Full Text Available A diferença entre fontes alimentares da ordem de 14‰, originárias de plantas com ciclos fotossintéticos Carbono-3 (C3 e Carbono-4 (C4 e seus subprodutos, abre novas perspectivas para o estudo do metabolismo do carbono em aves e animais de pequeno porte. Os autores propõem um modelo teórico e experimental capaz de exprimir os resultados de enriquecimento relativo, delta per mil (delta‰ da razão 13C/12C versus tempo em diferentes tecidos. Utilizou-se a equação y(t = (y0 -- q/k e-kt + q/k onde, y(t é a concentração isotópica no tempo desejado, y0 a concentração isotópica inicial existente no tecido, k é uma constante de troca isotópica com unidade 1/tempo, t é unidade de tempo e q é a taxa de entrada de metabólitos que contém carbono, com valores de delta‰/tempo. Para fígado de galinhas que tiveram a ração de ciclo fotossintético C4 substituída por dieta C3 obteve-se a equação delta13C = -24,74‰ + 12,37‰ e-0.237(nT, com meia-vida (T de 2,9 dias. O patamar de equilíbrio de substituição do carbono foi alcançado em --24,48‰, de modo que praticamente 98,4% do conteúdo isotópico do C4 no fígado foi substituído por C3 após 5,6 meias-vidas. O modelo foi adequado para determinar o tempo de reciclagem total ou parcial da concentração de carbono nos tecidos em estudo.Food source differences of about 14‰ from plants with carbon-3 (C3 and carbon-4 (C4 photosynthetic cycles and their derived products make carbon metabolism studies possible in birds and small mammals. The authors suggest a theorical and experimental model for determining the relative enrichment results, delta per thousand (delta‰ of the 13C/12C ratio as a function of time for different tissues. The following equation was used: y(t = (y0 -- q/k e-kt + q/k where, y(t is the isotopic concentration at time t, y0 is the initial isotopic concentration in the tissue, k is the turnover constant expressed in 1/time, and q is the input of metabolites

A Combination of NT-4/5 and GDNF Is Favorable for Cultured Human Nigral Neural Progenitor Cells

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Di Santo, Stefano; Meyer, Morten; Ducray, Angélique D

2018-01-01

by suboptimal integration and low survival of grafts. Pretreatment of donor tissue may offer a strategy to improve properties of transplanted DAergic neurons and thereby clinical outcome. We have previously shown that a combination of neurotrophin-4/5 (NT-4/5) and glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor...

Shaping ability of NT Engine and McXim rotary nickel-titanium instruments in simulated root canals. Part 1.

Science.gov (United States)

Thompson, S A; Dummer, P M

1997-07-01

The aim of this study was to determine the shaping ability of NT Engine and McXim nickel-titanium rotary instruments in simulated root canals. In all, 40 canals consisting of four different shapes in terms of angle and position of curvature were prepared by a combination of NT Engine and McXim instruments using the technique recommended by the manufacturer. Part 1 of this two-part report describes the efficacy of the instruments in terms of preparation time, instrument failure, canal blockages, loss of canal length and three-dimensional canal form. Overall, the mean preparation time for all canals was 6.01 min, with canal shape having a significant effect (P Engine and McXim instruments prepared canals rapidly, with few deformations, no canal blockages and with minimal change in working length. The three-dimensional form of the canals demonstrated good flow and taper characteristics.

The Study of Effects of Aqueous and Alcoholic Extracts of Portulaca oleracea Leaves on NT3 Gene Expression in Degeneration of Alpha Neurons after Sciatic Nerve Compression in Rats

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Shokoufe Hejazi

2017-03-01

Full Text Available Abstract Background: The injuries of peripheral nervous system cause the death of a number of motor cells of the spinal cord. Neurotrophins family genes such as NT3 involve in neuronal survive after nerve injury and their expression changes after it. With due attention to the expansion of portulaca pleracea in the world study was conducted to determine the effects of alcoholic and aqueous extracts of Potulaca oleracea on the NT3 gene expression after sciatic nerve compression in rat. Materials and Methods: This study was performed on 88 male wistar rats that randomly were divided in 13 groups of 6 each. They consisted of control group, 4 compression groups (The sciatic nerve was compressed with locker pincer and 8 treatment groups: compression + treatment with dose of 75 mg/kg of alcoholic and aqueous extract of Portulaca oleracea on days 1 and 7 (never compression was done on the first day. In all groups, Total RNA was extracted from the lumbar spinal cord segment in 1, 7, 14, 28 days and cDNA was synthesized, then NT3 expression changes were compared in groups. Results: There was a significant increase in NT3 gene expression in the compression group compared to control (p<0.001. The NT3 gene expression shows significant increase (p<0.05 in the treatment groups with alcoholic extract (except 1& 28 days. Also, there was no significant difference in gene expression between treatment group with acqueous extract and compression group in 1 and 7 days. A significant decrease was seen in the treatment groups with aqueous extract of purslane compared to compression (p<0.05. The NT3 gene expression shows significant increase in the treatment groups with alcoholic extract compared to treatment groups with aqueous extract in all days (p<0.05. Conclusion: The results reveal the Portulaca oleracea leaves extracts increase the NT3 gene expression after sciatic nerve injury. This effect is more in alcoholic extract than aqueous extract.

Mating of the stichotrichous ciliate Oxytricha trifallax induces production of a class of 27 nt small RNAs derived from the parental macronucleus.

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Alan M Zahler

Full Text Available Ciliated protozoans possess two types of nuclei; a transcriptionally silent micronucleus, which serves as the germ line nucleus, and a transcriptionally active macronucleus, which serves as the somatic nucleus. The macronucleus is derived from a new diploid micronucleus after mating, with epigenetic information contributed by the parental macronucleus serving to guide the formation of the new macronucleus. In the stichotrichous ciliate Oxytricha trifallax, the macronuclear DNA is highly processed to yield gene-sized nanochromosomes with telomeres at each end. Here we report that soon after mating of Oxytricha trifallax, abundant 27 nt small RNAs are produced that are not present prior to mating. We performed next generation sequencing of Oxytricha small RNAs from vegetative and mating cells. Using sequence comparisons between macronuclear and micronuclear versions of genes, we found that the 27 nt RNA class derives from the parental macronucleus, not the developing macronucleus. These small RNAs are produced equally from both strands of macronuclear nanochromosomes, but in a highly non-uniform distribution along the length of the nanochromosome, and with a particular depletion in the 30 nt telomere-proximal positions. This production of small RNAs from the parental macronucleus during macronuclear development stands in contrast to the mechanism of epigenetic control in the distantly related ciliate Tetrahymena. In that species, 28-29 nt scanRNAs are produced from the micronucleus and these micronuclear-derived RNAs serve as epigenetic controllers of macronuclear development. Unlike the Tetrahymena scanRNAs, the Oxytricha macronuclear-derived 27 mers are not modified by 2'O-methylation at their 3' ends. We propose models for the role of these "27macRNAs" in macronuclear development.

The ADHF/NT-proBNP risk score to predict 1-year mortality in hospitalized patients with advanced decompensated heart failure.

Science.gov (United States)

Scrutinio, Domenico; Ammirati, Enrico; Guida, Pietro; Passantino, Andrea; Raimondo, Rosa; Guida, Valentina; Sarzi Braga, Simona; Canova, Paolo; Mastropasqua, Filippo; Frigerio, Maria; Lagioia, Rocco; Oliva, Fabrizio

2014-04-01

The acute decompensated heart failure/N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (ADHF/NT-proBNP) score is a validated risk scoring system that predicts mortality in hospitalized heart failure patients with a wide range of left ventricular ejection fractions (LVEFs). We sought to assess discrimination and calibration of the score when applied to patients with advanced decompensated heart failure (AHF). We studied 445 patients hospitalized for AHF, defined by the presence of severe symptoms of worsening HF at admission, severely depressed LVEF, and the need for intravenous diuretic and/or inotropic drugs. The primary outcome was cumulative (in-hospital and post-discharge) mortality and post-discharge 1-year mortality. Separate analyses were performed for patients aged ≤ 70 years. A Seattle Heart Failure Score (SHFS) was calculated for each patient discharged alive. During follow-up, 144 patients (32.4%) died, and 69 (15.5%) underwent heart transplantation (HT) or ventricular assist device (VAD) implantation. After accounting for the competing events (VAD/HT), the ADHF/NT-proBNP score's C-statistic for cumulative mortality was 0.738 in the overall cohort and 0.771 in patients aged ≤ 70 years. The C-statistic for post-discharge mortality was 0.741 and 0.751, respectively. Adding prior (≤6 months) hospitalizations for HF to the score increased the C-statistic for post-discharge mortality to 0.759 in the overall cohort and to 0.774 in patients aged ≤ 70 years. Predicted and observed mortality rates by quartiles of score were highly correlated. The SHFS demonstrated adequate discrimination but underestimated the risk. The ADHF/NT-proBNP risk calculator is available at http://www.fsm.it/fsm/file/NTproBNPscore.zip. Our data suggest that the ADHF/NT-proBNP score may efficiently predict mortality in patients hospitalized with AHF. Copyright © 2014 International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

International conference on Functional Materials and Nanotechnologies (FM&NT-2013), 21-24 April 2013, Tartu, Estonia

Science.gov (United States)

Nõmmiste, Ergo; Kirm, Marco; Plank, Toomas

2014-04-01

The annual international conference Functional Materials and Nanotechnologies (FM&NT) was started in 2006 by scientists from the Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia. The warm welcome and open atmosphere of this scientific conference has turned it into an event where people from different countries and different fields come and meet under the shared umbrella of functional materials and nanotechnology. It is particularly important for early stage scientists who are looking for new knowledge and contacts with people from various fields to build their own network. Our Latvian colleagues, with their success in internationalization, made us neighbouring Estonians so jealous that we could not help but propose organising the conference every second year in Estonia. In a way, this conference is a continuation of the idea of the famous Baltic seminars which took place over several decades in the last century. Due to political constraints, these seminars were only open to scientists of former Eastern Europe countries, but had a great popularity and attendance from over the whole Soviet Union. Many collaborations started from the initial personal contact between scientists at these twice yearly seminars, held alternately in Latvia and Estonia. At the FM&NT 2012 conference, the decision was made that Institute of Physics, University of Tartu would organise the next event in Tartu in 2013. FM&NT-2013 was hence held in Tartu (Estonia) from 21-24 April 2013 at the Dorpat Conference Centre. The main selected topics of the conference were: (i) multifunctional materials, (ii) nanomaterials, (iii) materials for sustainable energy applications and (vi) theory. Additionally, the focus in this conference was on studies with the help of synchrotron radiation and other novel light sources such as free electron lasers. The conference provided an opportunity for 300 scientists from 21 countries to meet, establish contacts, exchange knowledge and discuss their research

X-ray diffraction studies on merohedrally twinned Δ1-62NtNBCe1-A crystals of the sodium/bicarbonate cotransporter.

Science.gov (United States)

Gill, Harindarpal S; Dutcher, Lauren; Boron, Walter F; Patel, Samir; Guay-Woodford, Lisa M

2013-07-01

NBCe1-A membrane-embedded macromolecules that cotransport sodium and bicarbonate ions across the bilayer serve to maintain acid-base homeostasis throughout the body. Defects result in a number of renal and eye disorders, including type-II renal tubular acidosis and cataracts. Here, crystals of a human truncated mutant of the cytoplasmic N-terminal domain of NBCe1 (Δ1-62NtNBCe1-A) are reported that diffract X-rays to 2.4 Å resolution. The crystal symmetry of Δ1-62NtNBCe1-A is of space group P31 with pseudo-P3121 symmetry and it has a hemihedral twin fraction of 33.0%. The crystals may provide insight into the pathogenic processes observed in a subset of patients with truncating and point mutations in the gene encoding NBCe1.

Need to Knowledge (NtK) Model: an evidence-based framework for generating technological innovations with socio-economic impacts.

Science.gov (United States)

Flagg, Jennifer L; Lane, Joseph P; Lockett, Michelle M

2013-02-15

Traditional government policies suggest that upstream investment in scientific research is necessary and sufficient to generate technological innovations. The expected downstream beneficial socio-economic impacts are presumed to occur through non-government market mechanisms. However, there is little quantitative evidence for such a direct and formulaic relationship between public investment at the input end and marketplace benefits at the impact end. Instead, the literature demonstrates that the technological innovation process involves a complex interaction between multiple sectors, methods, and stakeholders. The authors theorize that accomplishing the full process of technological innovation in a deliberate and systematic manner requires an operational-level model encompassing three underlying methods, each designed to generate knowledge outputs in different states: scientific research generates conceptual discoveries; engineering development generates prototype inventions; and industrial production generates commercial innovations. Given the critical roles of engineering and business, the entire innovation process should continuously consider the practical requirements and constraints of the commercial marketplace.The Need to Knowledge (NtK) Model encompasses the activities required to successfully generate innovations, along with associated strategies for effectively communicating knowledge outputs in all three states to the various stakeholders involved. It is intentionally grounded in evidence drawn from academic analysis to facilitate objective and quantitative scrutiny, and industry best practices to enable practical application. The Need to Knowledge (NtK) Model offers a practical, market-oriented approach that avoids the gaps, constraints and inefficiencies inherent in undirected activities and disconnected sectors. The NtK Model is a means to realizing increased returns on public investments in those science and technology programs expressly intended to

Diagnostic Value of N Terminal Pro B Type Natriuretic Peptide (NT-pro BNP in Cardiac Involvement in Patients with Beta- Thalassemia

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Noor Mohammad Noori

2017-04-01

Full Text Available Background Heart failure is a major cause of death in thalassemia. The study aimed to determine the diagnostic value of N Terminal Pro B Type Natriuretic Peptide (NT-pro BNP, to early diagnose the cardiac involvement in beta- thalassemia major patients. Materials and Methods  80 thalassemia patients aged 7 to 18 years old (patients group, and 80 healthy age and gender matched controls were enrolled in the case-control study. Patients were selected from those attending to the clinic of Aliasghar hospital, Zahedan-Iran. They were subjected to echo-Doppler tissue and conventional examination for both right and left heart function. Data were analysis using SPSS 18.0 software. Results  NT-pro BNP increased in patients compared the controls (P

Brain natriuretic peptide precursor (NT-pro-BNP) levels predict for clinical benefit to sunitinib treatment in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Papazisis, Konstantinos T; Kortsaris, Alexandros H; Kontovinis, Lukas F; Papandreou, Christos N; Kouvatseas, George; Lafaras, Christos; Antonakis, Evangelos; Christopoulou, Maria; Andreadis, Charalambos; Mouratidou, Despoina

2010-01-01

Sunitinib is an oral, multitargeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor that has been approved for the treatment of metastatic renal cell carcinoma. Although the majority of sunitinib-treated patients receive a clinical benefit, almost a third of the patients will not respond. Currently there is no available marker that can predict for response in these patients. We estimated the plasma levels of NT-pro-BNP (the N-terminal precursor of brain natriuretic peptide) in 36 patients that were treated with sunitinib for metastatic clear-cell renal carcinoma. From the 36 patients, 9 had progressive disease and 27 obtained a clinical benefit (objective response or disease stabilization). Increases in plasma NT-pro-BNP were strongly correlated to clinical outcome. Patients with disease progression increased plasma BNP at statistically significant higher levels than patients that obtained a clinical benefit, and this was evident from the first 15 days of treatment (a three-fold increase in patients with progressive disease compared to stable NT-pro-BNP levels in patients with clinical benefit, p < 0.0001). Median progression-free survival was 12.0 months in patients with less than 1.5 fold increases (n = 22) and 3.9 months in patients with more than 1.5 fold increases in plasma NT-pro-BNP (n = 13) (log-rank test, p = 0.001). This is the first time that a potential 'surrogate marker' has been reported with such a clear correlation to clinical benefit at an early time of treatment. Due to the relative small number of accessed patients, this observation needs to be further addressed on larger cohorts. More analyses, including multivariate analyses are needed before such an observation can be used in clinical practice

Repeated measurements of NT-pro-B-type natriuretic peptide, troponin T or C-reactive protein do not predict future allograft rejection in heart transplant recipients.

Science.gov (United States)

Battes, Linda C; Caliskan, Kadir; Rizopoulos, Dimitris; Constantinescu, Alina A; Robertus, Jan L; Akkerhuis, Martijn; Manintveld, Olivier C; Boersma, Eric; Kardys, Isabella

2015-03-01

Studies on the prognostic value of serial biomarker assays for future occurrence of allograft rejection (AR) are scarce. We examined whether repeated measurements of NT-pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), troponin T (TropT) and C-reactive protein (CRP) predict AR. From 2005 to 2010, 77 consecutive heart transplantation (HTx) recipients were included. The NT-proBNP, TropT, and CRP were measured at 16 ± 4 (mean ± standard deviation) consecutive routine endomyocardial biopsy surveillance visits during the first year of follow-up. Allograft rejection was defined as International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT) grade 2R or higher at endomyocardial biopsy. Joint modeling was used to assess the association between repeated biomarker measurements and occurrence of future AR. Joint modeling accounts for dependence among repeated observations in individual patients. The mean age of the patients at HTx was 49 ± 9.2 years, and 68% were men. During the first year of follow-up, 1,136 biopsies and concurrent blood samples were obtained, and 56 patients (73%) experienced at least one episode of AR. All biomarkers were elevated directly after HTx and achieved steady-state after ∼ 12 weeks, both in patients with or without AR. No associations were present between the repeated measurements of NT-proBNP, TropT, or CRP and AR both early (weeks 0-12) and late (weeks 13-52) in the course after HTx (hazard ratios for weeks 13-52: 0.96 (95% confidence interval, 0.55-1.68), 0.67 (0.27-1.69), and 1.44 (0.90-2.30), respectively, per ln[unit]). Combining the three biomarkers in one model also rendered null results. The temporal evolution of NT-proBNP, TropT, and CRP before AR did not predict occurrence of acute AR both in the early and late course of the first year after HTx.

CAMAC Driver Support for Windows NT trademark and Lunux trademark

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Slimmer, D.A.; Streets, J.M.

1999-01-01

CAMAC is a Modular Instrumentation and Digital Interface System defined as a standardized instrumentation system for Computer Automated Measurement and Control. CAMAC hardware and software has been defined by the NIM Committee (National Instrumentation Methods Committee) of the US Department of Energy and the ESONE Committee (European Standards on Nuclear Electronics Committee) of European Laboratories. Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory has for many years produced software packages that follow the ANSI/IEEE standard 758-1979 for a variety of computers, CAMAC controller interfaces, and operating systems. In order to enable the re-use of existing hardware and software, Fermilab now supports standard routine libraries and drivers for Windows NT 4.0 and the Linux operating systems for the Jorway 411s SCSI Bus CAMAC Driver[l] and the Jorway73A SCSI Bus CAMAC Crate Controller. A number of test stands and small experiments both on-site and off-site are using this software for their CAMAC data acquisition needs

smport nt rust l growth in the h nerozoi X ssotopi eviden e of gr ...

Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

smport nt rust l growth in the h nerozoi X ssotopi eviden e of gr nitoids from e stE entr l esi fy Ewsxq terx. ID p ex. IDP nd he is ryxqQ. Iq eos ien es ennesD niversit e de ennes ID QSHRP ennes gedexD pr n e em ilX j hndunivErennesIFfr. Phep rtment of qeologyD gh ng hun niversity of ien e nd e hnologyD gh ng hun IQH ...

The MSG Central Facility - A Mission Control System for Windows NT

Science.gov (United States)

Thompson, R.

The MSG Central Facility, being developed by Science Systems for EUMETSAT1, represents the first of a new generation of satellite mission control systems, based on the Windows NT operating system. The system makes use of a range of new technologies to provide an integrated environment for the planning, scheduling, control and monitoring of the entire Meteosat Second Generation mission. It supports packetised TM/TC and uses Science System's Space UNiT product to provide automated operations support at both Schedule (Timeline) and Procedure levels. Flexible access to historical data is provided through an operations archive based on ORACLE Enterprise Server, hosted on a large RAID array and off-line tape jukebox. Event driven real-time data distribution is based on the CORBA standard. Operations preparation and configuration control tools form a fully integrated element of the system.

1200 nt rat liver mRNA identified by differential hybridization exhibits coordinate regulation with 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG CoA) reductase

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tanaka, R.D.; Clarke, C.F.; Fogelman, A.M.; Edwards, P.A.

1986-01-01

Differential hybridization has been used to identify genes in rat liver that encode transcripts which are increased by the drugs cholestyramine and mevinolin and are decreased by dietary cholesterol. This approach should prove useful in isolating and identifying coordinately regulated genes involved in the isoprene biosynthetic pathway. Rat liver poly (A) + RNA was isolated from animals fed diets supplemented with either cholestyramine and mevinolin or with cholesterol. Radiolabeled cDNAs generated from these two RNA preparations were used to screen a rat cDNAs library. A preliminary screen of 10,000 recombinants has led to the identification of a clone with an insert of 1200 bp that hybridizes to a mRNA species of about 1200 nt. The level of this RNA species in rat liver is elevated by the drugs cholestyramine and mevinolin and is decreased by cholesterol feeding. This RNA species is also decreased by mevalonate administration to rats. The regulation of this 1200 nt mRNA species mirrors that of HMG CoA reductase and HMG CoA synthase. It seems very likely that this 1200 nt mRNA encodes a polypeptide which is involved in the isoprene biosynthetic pathway

The effects of temperature upon the electrophysiological properties of Tetrahymena pyriformis-NT1.

Science.gov (United States)

Connolly, J G; Brown, I D; Lee, A G; Kerkut, G A

1985-01-01

Cells of Tetrahymena pyriformis--NT1 were cultured at 38 degrees C (Tg 38 degrees C) and 20 degrees C (Tg 20 degrees C) and their properties investigated over the range 0-40 degrees C. Tg 20 degrees C cells were viable in the range 3-33 degrees C and changes in their properties were readily reversible between 10 degrees C and 30 degrees C. Tg 38 degrees cells were viable in the range 40-10 degrees C and their property changes were immediately reversible in the range 40-23 degrees C. The I-V relations of Tg 38 degrees C cells showed increased excitability as the cells were cooled from 40 degrees C. At 10 degrees C there was a considerable loss of excitability and slope resistance. Cooling Tg 20 degrees C cells from 20 degrees C gave a similar pattern, although over a narrower temperature range. Warming Tg 20 degrees C Tetrahymena above 20 degrees C led to a progressive loss of excitability and the cells were markedly less viable above 35 degrees C. Within physiological limits the regenerative spike magnitude, repolarization time, time to peak and input resistance increased as temperature was lowered, whereas resting potential was diminished. When compared at their growth temperatures and most intermediate temperatures, the value of the various parameters monitored were generally different for the two cultures. The Q10 value for resting potential changes of Tg 20 degrees C cells about 20 degrees C was 1.20. As in T. vorax this was significantly (P less than 0.01) greater than that predicted for a diffusion potential and suggested that T. pyriformis--NT1 may have an electrogenic pump component in its membrane potential.

SequenceL: Automated Parallel Algorithms Derived from CSP-NT Computational Laws

Science.gov (United States)

Cooke, Daniel; Rushton, Nelson

2013-01-01

With the introduction of new parallel architectures like the cell and multicore chips from IBM, Intel, AMD, and ARM, as well as the petascale processing available for highend computing, a larger number of programmers will need to write parallel codes. Adding the parallel control structure to the sequence, selection, and iterative control constructs increases the complexity of code development, which often results in increased development costs and decreased reliability. SequenceL is a high-level programming language that is, a programming language that is closer to a human s way of thinking than to a machine s. Historically, high-level languages have resulted in decreased development costs and increased reliability, at the expense of performance. In recent applications at JSC and in industry, SequenceL has demonstrated the usual advantages of high-level programming in terms of low cost and high reliability. SequenceL programs, however, have run at speeds typically comparable with, and in many cases faster than, their counterparts written in C and C++ when run on single-core processors. Moreover, SequenceL is able to generate parallel executables automatically for multicore hardware, gaining parallel speedups without any extra effort from the programmer beyond what is required to write the sequen tial/singlecore code. A SequenceL-to-C++ translator has been developed that automatically renders readable multithreaded C++ from a combination of a SequenceL program and sample data input. The SequenceL language is based on two fundamental computational laws, Consume-Simplify- Produce (CSP) and Normalize-Trans - pose (NT), which enable it to automate the creation of parallel algorithms from high-level code that has no annotations of parallelism whatsoever. In our anecdotal experience, SequenceL development has been in every case less costly than development of the same algorithm in sequential (that is, single-core, single process) C or C++, and an order of magnitude less

A non-standard optimal control problem arising in an economics application

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Alan Zinober

2013-04-01

Full Text Available A recent optimal control problem in the area of economics has mathematical properties that do not fall into the standard optimal control problem formulation. In our problem the state value at the final time the state, y(T = z, is free and unknown, and additionally the Lagrangian integrand in the functional is a piecewise constant function of the unknown value y(T. This is not a standard optimal control problem and cannot be solved using Pontryagin's Minimum Principle with the standard boundary conditions at the final time. In the standard problem a free final state y(T yields a necessary boundary condition p(T = 0, where p(t is the costate. Because the integrand is a function of y(T, the new necessary condition is that y(T should be equal to a certain integral that is a continuous function of y(T. We introduce a continuous approximation of the piecewise constant integrand function by using a hyperbolic tangent approach and solve an example using a C++ shooting algorithm with Newton iteration for solving the Two Point Boundary Value Problem (TPBVP. The minimising free value y(T is calculated in an outer loop iteration using the Golden Section or Brent algorithm. Comparative nonlinear programming (NP discrete-time results are also presented.

[Inhibitory effect of RNA interference targeting GFI-1 on the proliferation of atypical chronic myelogenous leukemia NT1 cells].

Science.gov (United States)

Yang, X; Liu, H; Lin, Z H; Qian, J; Xu, X R

2016-08-01

To investigate the inhibitory effects of RNA interference targeting GFI-1 on growth and proliferation of atypical chronic myelogenous leukemia (aCML) NT1 cells. NT1 cells were transfected with PBS and liposome complex (vehicle group), scrambled siRNA and liposome complex (negative control, NC group), and GFI-1 siRNA and liposome complex (GFI-1 siRNA group), respectively. Real-time quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR) and Western blot were performed to examine the expression levels of GFI-1 mRNA and protein, respectively. The proliferation abilities of NT1 cells of the three groups were evaluated by MTT assay. The cell cycle in cells of the three groups was analyzed by flow cytometry. Moreover, nude mouse xenograft model was used to detect the tumor formation ability in the three group cells. Quantitative real-time PCR data showed that the expression level of GFI-1 mRNA in GFI-1 siRNA group was significantly lower than those of NC group and vehicle group [(0.367±0.017) vs. (0.918±0.006) and (1.010±0.005), respectively, (PNT1 cells in the GFI-1 siRNA group (0.667±0.059) was significantly lower than those of the NC group (1.096±0.049) and vehicle group (1.193±0.064, P=0.023). Flow cytometry data showed that sub-G1 and G0/G1 phase proportions of the GFI-1 siRNA group were significantly higher than those of the NC and vehicle groups [sub-G1: (8.2±2.5)% vs. (1.9±1.3)% and (2.0±3.6)%, respectively, (PNT1 cells, which may provide a new therapeutic target for atypical chronic myelogenous leukemia.

Role of the 25-26 nt siRNA in the resistance of transgenic Prunus domestica graft inoculated with plum pox virus.

Science.gov (United States)

Kundu, Jiban Kumar; Briard, Pascal; Hily, Jean Michel; Ravelonandro, Michel; Scorza, Ralph

2008-02-01

The reaction of a genetically engineered plum clone (C5) resistant to plum pox virus (PPV) by graft inoculation with the virus was evaluated. The resistance in this clone has been demonstrated to be mediated through post-transcriptional gene silencing (PTGS). A single C5 plant out of 30 plants inoculated with PPV M strain by double chip-budding showed mild diffuse mosaic 'Sharka' symptom at the bottom section of the scion. The upper leaves of this PPV-infected C5 plant remained symptomless and the virus was not detected in them by either DAS-ELISA or RT-PCR. An RNA silencing associated small interfering RNA duplex, siRNA (21-26 nt), was detected in non-inoculated C5 plants and in the portions of inoculated C5 plant in which PPV could not be detected. In the PPV-infected portion of the C5 plant and in C6 PPV susceptible plants only the approximately 21-22 nt siRNAs was detected. Cytosine-methylation was confirmed in C5 plants both uninfected and showing PPV symptoms. The 25-26 nt siRNA normally present in C5 was absent in PPV-infected C5 tissues confirming the critical role of this siRNA in the resistance of clone C5 to PPV infection. We also show that this PPV infection was limited and transient. It was only detected in one plant at one of four post-dormancy sampling dates and did not appear to affect the overall PPV resistance of the C5 clone.

The ability of NT-proBNP to detect chronic heart failure and predict all-cause mortality is higher in elderly Chinese coronary artery disease patients with chronic kidney disease

OpenAIRE

Fu, Shihui; Yi,Shuangyan; Liu,Yuan; Zhu,Bing; Wang,Liang; Tiehui Xiao,; Bai,Yongyi; Ye,Ping; Luo,Leiming

2013-01-01

Shihui Fu, Leiming Luo, Ping Ye, Shuangyan Yi, Yuan Liu, Bing Zhu, Liang Wang, Tiehui Xiao, Yongyi Bai Department of Geriatric Cardiology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China Objective: To analyze the relationship between N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and renal function, and compare the ability and cut-off thresholds of NT-proBNP to detect chronic heart failure (CHF) and predict mortality in elderly Chinese coronary artery disease ...

Showstopper! the breakneck race to create Windows NT and the next generation at Microsoft

CERN Document Server

Zachary, G Pascal

2014-01-01

Showstopper is the dramatic, inside story of the creation of Windows NT, told by Wall Street Journal reporter G. Pascal Zachary. Driven by the legendary Bruce Cutler, a picked band of software engineers sacrifices almost everything in their lives to build a new, stable, operating system aimed at giving Microsoft a platform for growth through the next decade of development in the computing business.Comparable in many ways to the Pulitzer Prize-winning book The Soul of a New Machine by Tracy Kidder, Showstopper gets deep inside the process of software development, the lives and motivations of co

Unexplained week-to-week variation in BNP and NT-proBNP is low in chronic heart failure patients during steady state

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Schou, Morten; Gustafsson, Finn; Nielsen, Per H

2006-01-01

BACKGROUND: The usefulness of brain-natriuretic-peptide (BNP) and N-terminal-pro-brain-natriuretic-peptide (NT-proBNP) for monitoring of chronic heart failure (CHF) patients has been questioned because of high levels of unexplained variation. AIMS: Week-to-week total variance (CV(T)), unexplained...

Corrections to n_s and n_t from high scale physics

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Broy, Benedict J.

2016-09-01

When modelling inflation fluctuations as a free quantum scalar field, the initial vacuum is conventionally imposed at the infinite past. This is called the Bunch-Davies (BD) vacuum. If however an asymptotically Minkowskian past does not exist, this requires modifications. We derive corrections to the scalar spectral index n_s and the tensor tilt n_t descending from arbitrary mixed states or from explicit non-BD initial conditions. The former may stem from some pre-inflationary background and can redshift away whereas the latter are induced by a timelike hypersurface parametrising a physical cut-off. In both cases, we find that corrections scale in parts or fully as O(ε) where ε is the first slow-roll parameter. The precise observational footprint is hence dependent on the model driving inflation. Further, we show how the inflationary consistency relation is altered. We thus provide an analytic handle on possible high scale or pre-inflationary physics.

A study of radiation parameters at Nabarlek uranium mine, N.T

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Leach, V.A.; Lokan, K.H.; Martin, L.J.

1980-09-01

Radiation parameters associated with the open pit mining of a small (10,000 tonnes), but high grade (2 per cent) uranium deposit at Nabarlek, N.T., have been investigated. External radiation levels, radon emanation rates and radon daughter levels were measured systematically during the development of the mine, and are correlated with ore grade, properties of the host rock and atmospheric conditions. Significant radon daughter concentrations were observed only under stable atmospheric conditions, usually during the night and were invariably associated with thermal inversions. The mean cumulative exposure to radon daughters was estimated from the measured levels to be 0.065 Working Level Months for exployees working in the pit for the entire four and a half months of mining. The mean cumulative external gamma ray exposure for the same employee group was measured using thermoluminescent dosimeters to be 2.3 mSv (230 millirem). Data on long lived radionuclides in dust and on particle size distribution are also presented

Extracellular Matrix Biomarker, Fibulin-1, Is Closely Related to NT-proBNP and Soluble Urokinase Plasminogen Activator Receptor in Patients with Aortic Valve Stenosis (The SEAS Study)

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Kruger, Ruan; Rasmussen, Lars M; Argraves, William S

2014-01-01

associated with subclinical atherosclerosis. Therefore, we aimed to explore the interplay between these biomarkers and mild to moderate aortic valve stenosis (AS). METHODS: In 374 patients with mild to moderate AS, we investigated the relationship of fibulin-1 with NT-proBNP, levels of suPAR and the degree.......01), and suPAR (βyear0 = 0.09, p = 0.26, βyear1 = 0.23, βyear4 = 0.21, both plevels of fibulin-1 were independently associated with higher levels of suPAR and NT-proBNP especially in patients with lower AVAI, suggesting...

Assessment of a bedside test for N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) to differentiate cardiac from non-cardiac causes of pleural effusion in cats.

Science.gov (United States)

Wurtinger, Gabriel; Henrich, Estelle; Hildebrandt, Nicolai; Wiedemann, Nicola; Schneider, Matthias; Hassdenteufel, Esther

2017-12-20

Cats with pleural effusion represent common emergencies in small animal practice. The aim of this prospective study was to investigate the diagnostic ability of a point-of-care ELISA (POC-ELISA) for the measurement of N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) to differentiate cardiac from non-cardiac disease in cats with pleural effusion. The sample material for use of this rapid test was either plasma or diluted pleural effusion. Twenty cats with moderate to severe pleural effusion were prospectively recruited. The cats were grouped into two groups, with or without congestive heart failure (CHF; N-CHF), after complete work-up. Blood and effusion were collected in EDTA tubes. Plasma and pleural effusion supernatants were transferred into stabilizer tubes and frozen. POC-ELISA for NT-proBNP was performed with plasma and diluted effusion (1:1). Quantitative NT-proBNP measurement was performed in plasma and diluted and undiluted effusions. Six cats were assigned to the CHF group. Of the 14 cats in the N-CHF group, 6 had concurrent cardiac abnormalities that were not responsible for the effusion. For the detection of CHF, the test displayed respective sensitivities and specificities of 100% and 79% in plasma and 100% and 86% in diluted pleural fluid. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis for quantitative NT-proBNP measurement of plasma and diluted and undiluted pleural effusions displayed areas under the curve of 0.98, sensitivities of 100% and specificities of 86%. The optimum cut-off was calculated at 399 pmol/l in plasma and 229 pmol/l in the diluted effusion and 467 pmol/l in the undiluted effusion. POC-ELISA for NT-proBNP in both plasma and diluted pleural effusion was suitable to differentiate cardiac from non-cardiac causes of feline pleural effusion. According to our results, use of pleural effusion is feasible, but dilution of the effusion before measurement seems to improve specificity.

Differentiating human NT2/D1 neurospheres as a versatile in vitro 3D model system for developmental neurotoxicity testing

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hill, E.J.; Woehrling, E.K.; Prince, M.; Coleman, M.D.

2008-01-01

Developmental neurotoxicity is a major issue in human health and may have lasting neurological implications. In this preliminary study we exposed differentiating Ntera2/clone D1 (NT2/D1) cell neurospheres to known human teratogens classed as non-embryotoxic (acrylamide), weakly embryotoxic (lithium, valproic acid) and strongly embryotoxic (hydroxyurea) as listed by European Centre for the Validation of Alternative Methods (ECVAM) and examined endpoints of cell viability and neuronal protein marker expression specific to the central nervous system, to identify developmental neurotoxins. Following induction of neuronal differentiation, valproic acid had the most significant effect on neurogenesis, in terms of reduced viability and decreased neuronal markers. Lithium had least effect on viability and did not significantly alter the expression of neuronal markers. Hydroxyurea significantly reduced cell viability but did not affect neuronal protein marker expression. Acrylamide reduced neurosphere viability but did not affect neuronal protein marker expression. Overall, this NT2/D1-based neurosphere model of neurogenesis, may provide the basis for a model of developmental neurotoxicity in vitro

Zeppelin NT - Measurement Platform for the Exploration of Atmospheric Chemistry and Dynamics in the Planetary Boundary Layer

Science.gov (United States)

Hofzumahaus, Andreas; Holland, Frank; Oebel, Andreas; Rohrer, Franz; Mentel, Thomas; Kiendler-Scharr, Astrid; Wahner, Andreas; Brauchle, Artur; Steinlein, Klaus; Gritzbach, Robert

2014-05-01

The planetary boundary layer (PBL) is the chemically most active and complex part of the atmosphere where freshly emitted reactive trace gases, tropospheric radicals, atmospheric oxidation products and aerosols exhibit a large variability and spatial gradients. In order to investigate the chemical degradation of trace gases and the formation of secondary pollutants in the PBL, a commercial Zeppelin NT was modified to be used as an airborne measurement platform for chemical and physical observations with high spatial resolution. The Zeppelin NT was developed by Zeppelin Luftschifftechnik (ZLT) and is operated by Deutsche Zeppelin Reederei (DZR) in Friedrichshafen, Germany. The modification was performed in cooperation between Forschungszentrum Jülich and ZLT. The airship has a length of 75 m, can lift about 1 ton of scientific payload and can be manoeuvered with high precision by propeller engines. The modified Zeppelin can carry measurement instruments mounted on a platform on top of the Zeppelin, or inside the gondola beneath the airship. Three different instrument packages were developed to investigate a. gas-phase oxidation processes involving free radicals (OH, HO2) b. formation of secondary organic aerosols (SOA) c. new particle formation (nucleation) The presentation will describe the modified airship and provide an overview of its technical performance. Examples of its application during the recent PEGASOS flight campaigns in Europe will be given.

Shaping ability of NT Engine and McXim rotary nickel-titanium instruments in simulated root canals. Part 2.

Science.gov (United States)

Thompson, S A; Dummer, P M

1997-07-01

The aim of this laboratory-based study was to determine the shaping ability of NT Engine and McXim nickel-titanium rotary instruments in simulated root canals. A total of 40 canals with four different shapes in terms of angle and position of curve were prepared with NT Engine and McXim instruments, using the technique recommended by the manufacturer. Part 2 of this report describes the efficacy of the instruments in terms of prevalence of canal aberrations, the amount and direction of canal transportation and overall postoperative shape. Pre- and postoperative images of the canals were taken using a video camera attached to a computer with image analysis software. The pre- and postoperative views were superimposed to highlight the amount and position of material removed during preparation. No zips, elbows, perforations or danger zones were created during preparation. Forty-two per cent of canals had ledges on the outer aspect of the curve, the majority of which (16 out of 17) occurred in canals with short acute curves. There were significant differences (P Engine and McXim rotary nickel-titanium instruments created no aberrations other than ledges and produced only minimal transportation. The overall shape of canals was good.

Sandwich-Type Electrochemiluminescence Sensor for Detection of NT-proBNP by Using High Efficiency Quench Strategy of Fe3O4@PDA toward Ru(bpy)32+ Coordinated with Silver Oxalate.

Science.gov (United States)

Shi, Li; Li, Xiaojian; Zhu, Wenjuan; Wang, Yaoguang; Du, Bin; Cao, Wei; Wei, Qin; Pang, Xuehui

2017-12-22

Heart failure (HF) is a burgeoning public health problem trigged by a heart circulation disorder. N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) has been acknowledged as a prognostic biomarker for cardiac disease. Herein, a sandwich-type electrochemiluminescence (ECL) immunosensor was introduced for sensitive detection of NT-proBNP. Gold nanoparticle modified graphene oxide-Ru(bpy) 3 2+ /Ag 2 C 2 O 4 was used as a luminophore and a desirable platform for immobilization of the captured antibodies. The more stable immobilization of plentiful Ru(bpy) 3 2+ could be implemented by direct covalent bonding chelation with Ag 2 C 2 O 4 . More importantly, significant quenching can be achieved by introducing polydopamine (PDA) coated Fe 3 O 4 onto the electrode via sandwich immunoreactions. The quenching mechanism mainly showed that the excited states of Ru(bpy) 3 2+ could be annihilated by quinone units in PDA via energy transfer. The ECL quenching efficiency was logarithmically related to the concentration of the NT-proBNP in the range from 0.0005 ng/mL to 100.0 ng/mL with a detection limit of 0.28 pg/mL. Furthermore, this specific immunosensor presented good stability and repeatability as well as selectivity, which offers a guiding significance in both fundamental and clinical diagnosis of NT-proBNP.

An invariance property of the common trends under linear transformations of the data

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Johansen, Søren; Juselius, Katarina

It is well known that if X(t) is a nonstationary process and Y(t) is a linear function of X(t), then cointegration of Y(t) implies cointegration of X(t). We want to find an analogous result for common trends if X(t) is generated by a finite order VAR. We first show that Y(t) has an infinite order...... VAR representation in terms of its prediction errors, which are a linear process in the prediction error for X(t). We then apply this result to show that the limit of the common trends for Y(t) are linear functions of the common trends for X(t)....

Highly efficient generation of glutamatergic/cholinergic NT2-derived postmitotic human neurons by short-term treatment with the nucleoside analogue cytosine β-d-arabinofuranoside

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Imanol González-Burguera

2016-03-01

Taken together, our results further reinforce the notion NT2 cells are a versatile source of neuronal phenotypes and provide a new encouraging platform for studying mechanisms of neuronal differentiation and for exploring neuronal replacement strategies.

[A Survey for Colton and Other 3 Rare Blood Group Systems in Chinese Nanjing Han Population].

Science.gov (United States)

Chen, Yan; Ma, Ling; Liu, Yan-Chun

2015-10-01

To investigate the distribution of Colton, Diego, Kell and Yt rare blood groups in Chinese Nanjing Han population, so as to improve the transfusion capability of patients with rare blood group and to further enrich the rare-blood-donor bank. A total of 2 015 blood samples from the blood donors were selected randomly to screen the presence of K⁺ and Kp(c+) (Kell), Yt(b+) (Yt), Co(b+) (Colton), Di(a+b+) and Di(a+b-) (Digeo) antigen allele by using PCR and multiplex PCR. Out of 2005 samples, 1 case with K⁺ gene, 8 cases with Yt(b+) gene and 100 cases with Di(a+b+) gene, 2 cases with Di(a+b-) were identified, while no Kp(c+) and Co(b+) were detected. The frequencies of K⁺, Yt(b+) and Di(a+), Di(b+) are 0.0003, 0.0013 and 0.0258, 0.9742, respectively. They are very rare blood groups in Chinese Nanjing Han population.

Injection of a soluble fragment of neural agrin (NT-1654 considerably improves the muscle pathology caused by the disassembly of the neuromuscular junction.

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Stefan Hettwer

Full Text Available Treatment of neuromuscular diseases is still an unsolved problem. Evidence over the last years strongly indicates the involvement of malformation and dysfunction of neuromuscular junctions in the development of such medical conditions. Stabilization of NMJs thus seems to be a promising approach to attenuate the disease progression of muscle wasting diseases. An important pathway for the formation and maintenance of NMJs is the agrin/Lrp4/MuSK pathway. Here we demonstrate that the agrin biologic NT-1654 is capable of activating the agrin/Lrp4/MuSK system in vivo, leading to an almost full reversal of the sarcopenia-like phenotype in neurotrypsin-overexpressing (SARCO mice. We also show that injection of NT-1654 accelerates muscle re-innervation after nerve crush. This report demonstrates that a systemically administered agrin fragment has the potential to counteract the symptoms of neuromuscular disorders.

Effect of PCI on inflammatory factors, cTnI, MMP-9 and NT-pro BNP in patients with unstable angina pectoris

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Ke-Tong Liu

2016-05-01

Full Text Available Objective: To investigate the effect of PCI on inflammatory factors, cTnI, MMP-9and NTpro BNP in patients with unstable angina pectoris. Methods: A total of 80 unstable angina pectoris patients were divided into observation group (40 cases and control group (40 cases. The observation group was given the therapy of PCI, and the control group was given coronary angiography. To observe the of inflammatory factors, cTnI, MMP-9 and NT-pro BNP were tested and compared before and after operation. Results: At 24 h after operation, CRP and IL-18 levels were increased significantly after treatment inoperation groups, there was no difference on inflammatory factors in control group, and had significant difference on inflammatory factors in two groups; At 24 h after operation, cTnI, MMP-9 and NT-pro BNP levels were increased significantly after treatment inoperation groups, there was no difference on inflammatory factors in control group, and had significant difference on inflammatory factors in two groups. Conclusion: PCI therapy can induce inflammation and myocardial injury in patients with unstable angina pectoris.

Níveis séricos de NT pro-BNP: relação com função sistólica e diastólica nas miocardiopatias e pericardiopatias

OpenAIRE

Mady,Charles; Fernandes,Fábio; Arteaga,Edmundo; Ramires,Felix José Alvarez; Buck,Paula de Cássia; Salemi,Vera Maria Cury; Ianni,Barbara Maria; Nastari,Luciano; Dias,Ricardo Ribeiro

2008-01-01

FUNDAMENTO: O NT pro-BNP é marcador de disfunção sistólica e diastólica. OBJETIVO: Determinar os níveis de NT pro-BNP em pacientes com cardiopatia chagásica, hipertrófica, restritiva e afecções pericárdicas, e sua relação com medidas ecocardiográficas de disfunção sistólica e diastólica. MÉTODOS: Cento e quarenta e cinco pacientes foram divididos nos respectivos grupos: 1) cardiopatia chagásica (CCh) - 14 pacientes; 2) miocardiopatia hipertrófica (CMH) - 71 pacientes; 3) endomiocardiofibrose ...

The relation between electrocardiographic ST-T changes and NT-proBNP in patients with acute ischemic stroke

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Jensen, Jesper K; Korsholm, Lars; Høilund-Carlsen, Poul Flemming

2007-01-01

BACKGROUND: ST-segment depression and T-wave inversion (ST-T changes) in the electrocardiogram (ECG) and raised levels of natriuretic peptide have been observed in acute ischemic stroke patients. It is unknown whether any relation between ST-T changes and raised levels of natriuretic peptides...... in patients with an acute ischemic stroke exists. METHODS: Serial measurements of plasma N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and 12-lead ECGs were obtained in 192 consecutive patients with an acute ischemic stroke without ischemic heart disease, atrial fibrillation, heart- or renal failure...

Minimal hidden sector models for CoGeNT/DAMA events

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Cline, James M.; Frey, Andrew R.

2011-01-01

Motivated by recent attempts to reconcile hints of direct dark matter detection by the CoGeNT and DAMA experiments, we construct simple particle physics models that can accommodate the constraints. We point out challenges for building reasonable models and identify the most promising scenarios for getting isospin violation and inelasticity, as indicated by some phenomenological studies. If inelastic scattering is demanded, we need two new light gauge bosons, one of which kinetically mixes with the standard model hypercharge and has mass <2 GeV, and another which couples to baryon number and has mass 6.8±(0.1/0.2) GeV. Their interference gives the desired amount of isospin violation. The dark matter is nearly Dirac, but with small Majorana masses induced by spontaneous symmetry breaking, so that the gauge boson couplings become exactly off-diagonal in the mass basis, and the small mass splitting needed for inelasticity is simultaneously produced. If only elastic scattering is demanded, then an alternative model, with interference between the kinetically mixed gauge boson and a hidden sector scalar Higgs, is adequate to give the required isospin violation. In both cases, the light kinetically mixed gauge boson is in the range of interest for currently running fixed target experiments.

Solution matching for a three-point boundary-value problem on atime scale

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Martin Eggensperger

2004-07-01

Full Text Available Let $mathbb{T}$ be a time scale such that $t_1, t_2, t_3 in mathbb{T}$. We show the existence of a unique solution for the three-point boundary value problem $$displaylines{ y^{DeltaDeltaDelta}(t = f(t, y(t, y^Delta(t, y^{DeltaDelta}(t, quad t in [t_1, t_3] cap mathbb{T},cr y(t_1 = y_1, quad y(t_2 = y_2, quad y(t_3 = y_3,. }$$ We do this by matching a solution to the first equation satisfying a two-point boundary conditions on $[t_1, t_2] cap mathbb{T}$ with a solution satisfying a two-point boundary conditions on $[t_2, t_3] cap mathbb{T}$.

An Invariance Property of the Common Trends under Linear Transformations of the Data

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Johansen, Søren; Juselius, Katarina

It is well known that if X(t) is a nonstationary process and Y(t) is a linear function of X(t), then cointegration of Y(t) implies cointegration of X(t). We want to find an analogous result for common trends if X(t) is generated by a finite order VAR. We first show that Y(t) has an infinite order...... VAR representation in terms of its prediction errors, which are a linear process in the prediction error for X(t). We then apply this result to show that the limit of the common trends for Y(t) are linear functions of the common trends for X(t). We illustrate the findings with a small analysis...... of the term structure of interest rates....

Frequency of canine nt230(del4) MDR1 mutation in prone pure breeds, their crosses and mongrels in Israel - insights from a worldwide comparative perspective.

Science.gov (United States)

Dekel, Yaron; Machluf, Yossy; Stoler, Aviad; Aderet, Arava; Baumel, Daniel; Kellerman, Efrat; Plotsky, Yoram; Noked Partouche, Oshrat; Elhalal, Gal; Ben-Shlomo, Izhar; Bercovich, Dani

2017-11-13

Sensitivity to macrocyclic lactones, which are commonly used in veterinary clinics, was first found in Rough Collies, and was attributed in 2001 to a 4 bp deletion in the MDR1 gene. The list of affected breeds currently includes 13 breeds. Researchers from different countries and continents examined the allelic frequencies of the nt230(del4) MDR1 mutation, emphasizing the clinical importance of this test not only to mutation-prone dogs, but also to their crosses and mongrels, since treatment of a deletion carrier with these compounds may lead to its death. In this study, the allelic frequencies of nt230(del4) MDR1 mutation in affected breeds, their crosses, unrelated pure breeds and mongrels are reported for the state of Israel (n = 1416 dogs). The Israeli data were compared with reports from the US, Europe, UK, Australia and Japan. The allelic frequencies of nt230(del4) MDR1 mutation in Israel for Australian, Swiss and German Shepherds (31%, 17% and 2.4%, respectively) are similar to the corresponding frequencies worldwide, much higher for Border Collies (4.8%), twice lower for Rough Collies (28%, compared to 55% or more elsewhere), and ~1% for mongrels. The frequencies for crosses of Australian Shepherd and Border Collies in Israel are 4 and 1.6 times lower, respectively, compared to the frequencies for the respective pure breeds. This work, that for the first time presents the frequency of nt230(del4) MDR1 mutation in Israel, along with a worldwide survey, has implications for clinicians, owners and breeders of sheepdogs and their crosses and supports the need for extra care in treatment and in future breeding. Of note, the relative proportion of affected breeds, in the overall tested dogs, might be higher than their actual proportion in Israel due to directed samples collection by veterinarians for clinical purposes, as these are mainly limited to certain affected breeds or dogs that resemble them.

Levels of NT-proBNP, markers of low-grade inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction during spironolactone treatment in patients with diabetic kidney disease

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Nielsen, Stine; Schjoedt, Katrine J; Rossing, Kasper

2013-01-01

with spironolactone 25 mg and placebo daily for 60 days.Outcome measures:Changes in inflammatory (hsCRP, s-ICAM, TNFα, IL-6, IL-8, Serum amyloid A, IL1β), endothelial dysfunction (sE-selectin, s-ICAM1, s-VCAM1, VWF, p-selectin, s-thrombomodulin) and NT-proBNP after each treatment period. RESULTS: During...

IPv6:n käyttöönotto PK-yrityksessä

OpenAIRE

Salonen, Arttu Petteri

2011-01-01

Tämän opinnäytetyön tarkoituksena on selvittää, kuinka IPv6-yhteydet otetaan käyt-töön PK-yrityksessä. Työssä selvitetään minkälaiset vaatimukset IPv6 asettaa lait-teistolle ja minkälaisia käytännön asioita yrityksen täytyy huomioida IPv6:n käyt-töönotossa. Lisäksi työssä on laboratoriosimulaation avulla havainnollistettu eri käyt-töjärjestelmien tukea IPv6:lle ja käyttöönottoon liittyviä reititin- ja osoitekonfiguraati-oita. Käyttöönoton lisäksi opinnäytetyössä esitellään IPv6-protokoll...

Presynaptic protein synthesis required for NT-3-induced long-term synaptic modulation

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Je H

2011-01-01

Full Text Available Abstract Background Neurotrophins elicit both acute and long-term modulation of synaptic transmission and plasticity. Previously, we demonstrated that the long-term synaptic modulation requires the endocytosis of neurotrophin-receptor complex, the activation of PI3K and Akt, and mTOR mediated protein synthesis. However, it is unclear whether the long-term synaptic modulation by neurotrophins depends on protein synthesis in pre- or post-synaptic cells. Results Here we have developed an inducible protein translation blocker, in which the kinase domain of protein kinase R (PKR is fused with bacterial gyrase B domain (GyrB-PKR, which could be dimerized upon treatment with a cell permeable drug, coumermycin. By genetically targeting GyrB-PKR to specific cell types, we show that NT-3 induced long-term synaptic modulation requires presynaptic, but not postsynaptic protein synthesis. Conclusions Our results provide mechanistic insights into the cell-specific requirement for protein synthesis in the long-term synaptic modulation by neurotrophins. The GyrB-PKR system may be useful tool to study protein synthesis in a cell-specific manner.

Studies of (n,t) reactions on light nuclei

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Suhaimi, A.

1988-04-01

Cross Sections were measured with uncertainties of 13 to 21% for the reactions 9 Be(n,t)L 7 Li, 10 B(n,t)2α and 14 N(n,t) 12 C over various energy ranges. Irradiations were performed with thermal neutrons and neutrons produced via the reactions 2 H(d,n) 3 He and 9 Be(d,n) 10 B. The tritium produced and accumulated in the irradiated samples was separated by vacuum extraction and measured in the gas phase using anticoincidence β - counting. The residual tritium content was determined for the enriched 10 B and AlN samples. The characteristics of tritium diffusion in B 4 C were studied by high-temperature release experiments. The Li impurity in the AlN sample was determined via neutron activation analysis. The average 9 Be(n,t) 7 Li cross sections lie between 3 and 14 mb for break-up neutrons produced by 17.5 to 31.0 MeV deuterons on a thick Be target. A comparison of the measured data with the values deduced from differential data and neutron spectral distributions shows agreement within ± 21%. The 10 B(n,t)2α cross sections in the neutron energy range of 0.025 eV to 10.6 MeV lie between 12 and 215 mb (with the maximum at about 5.5 MeV). The 14 N(n,t) 12 C cross sections in the neutron energy range of 5.0 to 10.6 MeV lie between 11 and 30 mb. The excitation function shows a fluctuation which is attributed to the decay properties of the compound nucleus 15 N. Detailed Hauser-Feshbach calculations show that the statistical model cannot satisfactorily describe the (n,t) cross section on light nuclei. (orig.)

Improved early risk stratification of patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention using a combination of serum soluble ST2 and NT-proBNP.

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Jongwook Yu

Full Text Available Although soluble suppression of tumorigenicity 2 (sST2 in serum is known to be associated with ischemic heart disease and heart failure, data regarding its prognostic impact in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI is limited. We evaluated the prognostic impacts of serum sST2 and other serum biomarkers in STEMI patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI.Consecutive all 323 patients with STEMI that underwent primary PCI were enrolled. Blood tests and samples were obtained in an emergency room. The primary endpoint was 1-year major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs, defined as a composite of cardiovascular death, non-fatal MI, non-fatal stroke, and ischemia-driven revascularization.Mean age was 59.1±13.1 years (men 84%. MACCE (20 cardiovascular deaths, 7 non-fatal MI, 4 non-fatal stroke, 7 ischemia-driven revascularizations occurred in 38 patients (12%. After adjusting for confounding factors, Cox regression analysis revealed that high serum sST2 (>75.8 ng/mL mean value, adjusted hazard ratio 2.098, 95% CI 1.008-4.367, p = 0.048 and high serum NT-proBNP level (>400 pg/mL, adjusted hazard ratio 2.606, 95% CI 1.086-6.257, p = 0.032 at the time of presentation independently predicted MACCE within a year of primary PCI. Furthermore, when high serum sST2 level was combined with high serum NT-proBNP level, the hazard ratio of MACCE was highest (adjusted hazard ratio 7.93, 95% CI 2.97-20.38, p<0.001.Elevated serum levels of sST2 or NT-proBNP at the time of presentation were found to predict 1-year MACCE independently and elevated serum levels of sST2 plus NT-proBNP were associated with even poorer prognosis in patients with STEMI undergoing primary PCI.

Limited Value of Assays Using Detection of Immunoglobulin G Antibodies to the Two Recombinant Dense Granule Antigens, GRA1 and GRA6 Nt of Toxoplasma gondii, for Distinguishing between Acute and Chronic Infections in Pregnant Women

Science.gov (United States)

Ferrandiz, Josette; Mercier, Corinne; Wallon, Martine; Picot, Stéphane; Cesbron-Delauw, Marie-France; Peyron, François

2004-01-01

An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using two recombinant antigens of Toxoplasma gondii (GRA1 and GRA6 Nt) was developed in order to differentiate between pregnant women with a serological profile of recently acquired infection and those with chronic infection. Both proteins were expressed in Escherichia coli as glutathione S-transferase fusion proteins. Thirty-two serum samples from subjects who presented seroconversion within 3 months before sampling (group 1; acute profile), 46 serum samples from women who had a positive serology at least 1 year before sampling (group 2; chronic profile), and 100 serum samples from pregnant women who were not infected by T. gondii (group 3) were examined for immunoglobulin G (IgG) reactivity. For both antigens, the specificity reached 98%. In both groups of infected patients, the overall sensitivity scored was 60% for GRA1 and 83% for GRA6 Nt. In group 1, 34% of sera reacted with GRA1 whereas 84% of sera reacted with GRA6 Nt; in group 2, however, sensitivities were 78.2 and 82.6%, respectively. Combination of the readings obtained with both antigens yielded a sensitivity of 91%. A serological follow-up of 10 women who seroconverted during pregnancy displayed three different serological patterns: (i) a GRA profile paralleling the IgG curve, as detected by the commercial kit, (ii) a GRA1 profile, or (iii) GRA1 and GRA6 Nt profiles remaining negative for at least 8 weeks after the reference test gave positive results. Taken together, these results suggest that neither GRA1 nor GRA6 Nt is sensitive enough to be used routinely to differentiate between acute and chronic toxoplasmic infections. PMID:15539499

Best management practices plan for installation of and monitoring at temporary Weirs at NT-4, Oak Ridge Y-12 Plant, Oak Ridge, Tennessee

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

1997-06-01

The purpose of the installation of temporary weirs at NT-4 is to collect empirical surface water discharge data for the tributary during baseflow conditions and following rainfall events, during the spring and summer of 1997 in support of the Department of Energy's (DOE's) Oak Ridge Reservation Waste Management Alternatives Evaluation project. The duration of surface-water monitoring activities is not planned to exceed 6 months. A minimum of four temporary weirs will be installed along the length of NT-4 in the locations indicated on Attachment A. The design specifications and locations for the weirs will be provided by the DOE prime contractor for the Oak Ridge Reservation Waste Management Alternatives Evaluation project. The weirs will be fabricated by the Y-12 labor forces of Lockheed Martin Energy Systems (LMES). The Environmental Compliance Organization (ECO) of LMES will perform data collection in addition to weir installation, inspection, maintenance, and removal. Flow meters that collect data at five minute intervals will be installed on each weir and visual measurements using staff gauges mounted on each weir will also be performed

Genetics Home Reference: 3-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase deficiency

Science.gov (United States)

... for This Page Lutfallah C, Wang W, Mason JI, Chang YT, Haider A, Rich B, Castro-Magana ... A, Copeland KC, Chang YT, Lutfallah C, Mason JI. Carriers for type II 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (HSD3B2) ...

Relationship of plasma level of NT- ProBNP with development of AF in CABG patients

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Tanaray B

2010-10-01

Full Text Available "nBackground: Studies of the association between post operative AF and Plasma level of NT- Pro BNP have reported conflicting findings. The aim of the present study was evaluation of the association between post coronary bypass graft- Atrial Fibrillation (AF and Plasma level of NT- ProBNP as an independent risk factor of AF development in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft."n "nMethods: In a cohort study, 79 patients with sinus rhythm who admitted in Imam Khomeini Hospital in Tehran, Iran, during February 2009 and February 2010 for CABG are included the study and followed for developing post operative AF rhythm."n "nResults: Post operative AF was found in 17.7% of patients. The peak time from the operation to the first AF episode was in second post op day in ten patients (71.4%. The serum level of ProBNP in patients with AF was significantly higher (1624± 647 versus 221± 238 pg/ml, p< 0/0001. Increased age, Increased LA size and high plasma level of ProBNP were associated with increased risk for post op AF. After adjustment of risk factors, plasma level of ProBNP was the most important risk factor with odds ratio of 15.34 with CI 95% 1.77-132.95 and then LA diameter with odds ratio of 6.11 with CI 95% 0.99-37.42 was independently correlated with post op AF. Correlation between plasma level of ProBNP with age and LA size was seen too (LA size r = 0.0281, p= 0.012. Between age and ProBNP (r= 0.337, p= 0.002. The best cut off point for plasma ProBNP as a predictor of post op AF was 854 pg/ml."n "nConclusion: Increased level of preoperative ProBNP levels could be an independent predictor of post operative Atrial Fibrillation.

Projektioppaan suunnittelu ja toteutus : case: projektiopas Turun ammattikorkeakoulun opiskelijoille

OpenAIRE

Toivonen, Minna

2010-01-01

Tämän opinnäytetyön tavoitteena on tuottaa opiskelijoille projektiopas, johon voi turvautua käytännön työn rinnalla. Opas on kirjoitettu omien kokemusten perusteella opiskelijalta opiskelijalle. Työn on hyvin käytännönläheinen, vain yksittäisiä sanoja ja termejä teoreettisesti selitellen. Toimeksiantajana oli Osuuskunta Zemi Finlandin ohjaava opettaja Jaana Kallio-Gerlander, ensisijaisena tavoitteena oli saada opas auttamaan opiskelijoiden projektityöskentelyä. Prosessi oli hyvin käytännön...

X-ray diffraction studies on merohedrally twinned Δ1–62NtNBCe1-A crystals of the sodium/bicarbonate cotransporter

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gill, Harindarpal S.; Dutcher, Lauren; Boron, Walter F.; Patel, Samir; Guay-Woodford, Lisa M.

2013-01-01

A truncated mutant missing the first 62 residues of the N-terminal, cytoplasmic domain of the sodium-bicarbonate NBCe1-A cotransporter crystallizes in space group P3 1 with pseudo-P3 1 21 symmetry and a hemihedral twin fraction of 33.0%. Twinned fractions and twin-pair statistics over binned resolutions confirm that the calculated twin fraction is associated with hemihedral twinning and not to non-crystallographic symmetry. NBCe1-A membrane-embedded macromolecules that cotransport sodium and bicarbonate ions across the bilayer serve to maintain acid–base homeostasis throughout the body. Defects result in a number of renal and eye disorders, including type-II renal tubular acidosis and cataracts. Here, crystals of a human truncated mutant of the cytoplasmic N-terminal domain of NBCe1 (Δ1–62NtNBCe1-A) are reported that diffract X-rays to 2.4 Å resolution. The crystal symmetry of Δ1–62NtNBCe1-A is of space group P3 1 with pseudo-P3 1 21 symmetry and it has a hemihedral twin fraction of 33.0%. The crystals may provide insight into the pathogenic processes observed in a subset of patients with truncating and point mutations in the gene encoding NBCe1

ER-mediated stress induces mitochondrial-dependent caspases activation in NT2 neuron-like cells.

Science.gov (United States)

Arduino, Daniela M; Esteves, A Raquel; Domingues, A Filipa; Pereira, Claudia M F; Cardoso, Sandra M; Oliveira, Catarina R

2009-11-30

Recent studies have revealed that endoplasmic reticulum (ER) disturbance is involved in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative disorders, contributing to the activation of the ER stress-mediated apoptotic pathway. Therefore, we investigated here the molecular mechanisms underlying the ER-mitochondria axis, focusing on calcium as a potential mediator of cell death signals. Using NT2 cells treated with brefeldin A or tunicamycin, we observed that ER stress induces changes in the mitochondrial function, impairing mitochondrial membrane potential and distressing mitochondrial respiratory chain complex Moreover, stress stimuli at ER level evoked calcium fluxes between ER and mitochondria. Under these conditions, ER stress activated the unfolded protein response by an overexpression of GRP78, and also caspase-4 and-2, both involved upstream of caspase-9. Our findings show that ER and mitochondria interconnection plays a prominent role in the induction of neuronal cell death under particular stress circumstances.

First human hNT neurons patterned on parylene-C/silicon dioxide substrates: Combining an accessible cell line and robust patterning technology for the study of the pathological adult human brain.

Science.gov (United States)

Unsworth, C P; Graham, E S; Delivopoulos, E; Dragunow, M; Murray, A F

2010-12-15

In this communication, we describe a new method which has enabled the first patterning of human neurons (derived from the human teratocarcinoma cell line (hNT)) on parylene-C/silicon dioxide substrates. We reveal the details of the nanofabrication processes, cell differentiation and culturing protocols necessary to successfully pattern hNT neurons which are each key aspects of this new method. The benefits in patterning human neurons on silicon chip using an accessible cell line and robust patterning technology are of widespread value. Thus, using a combined technology such as this will facilitate the detailed study of the pathological human brain at both the single cell and network level. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

In vitro and in vivo evaluation of new radiolabeled neurotensin(8-13) analogues with high affinity for NT1 receptors

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Garayoa, Elisa Garcia-; Allemann-Tannahill, Lesley; Blaeuenstein, Peter; Willmann, Martine; Carrel-Remy, Nathalie; Tourwe, Dirk; Iterbeke, Koen; Conrath, Peter; Schubiger, P. August

2001-01-01

The potential utility of neurotensin (NT) in cancer diagnosis and therapy is limited by its rapid degradation. New stabilized analogues were synthesized, labeled with [ 99m Tc] and screened in vitro and in vivo. High affinity and rapid internalization were obtained in binding assays. Despite their longer human plasma half-lives, a rapid degradation was observed with low concentrations as used in biodistribution tests. The tumor uptake rates were rather low but tumor/blood ratios increased according to the stability raise

In vitro and in vivo evaluation of new radiolabeled neurotensin(8-13) analogues with high affinity for NT1 receptors

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Garayoa, Elisa Garcia-; Allemann-Tannahill, Lesley; Blaeuenstein, Peter; Willmann, Martine; Carrel-Remy, Nathalie; Tourwe, Dirk; Iterbeke, Koen; Conrath, Peter; Schubiger, P. August E-mail: schubiger@psi.ch

2001-01-01

The potential utility of neurotensin (NT) in cancer diagnosis and therapy is limited by its rapid degradation. New stabilized analogues were synthesized, labeled with [{sup 99m}Tc] and screened in vitro and in vivo. High affinity and rapid internalization were obtained in binding assays. Despite their longer human plasma half-lives, a rapid degradation was observed with low concentrations as used in biodistribution tests. The tumor uptake rates were rather low but tumor/blood ratios increased according to the stability raise.

Post Irradiation Examination Results of the NT-02 Graphite Fins NUMI Target

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ammigan, K. [Fermilab; Hurh, P. [Fermilab; Sidorov, V. [Fermilab; Zwaska, R. [Fermilab; Asner, D. M. [PNL, Richland; Casella, Casella,A.M [PNL, Richland; Edwards, D. J. [PNL, Richland; Schemer-Kohrn, A. L. [PNL, Richland; Senor, D. J. [PNL, Richland

2017-02-10

The NT-02 neutrino target in the NuMI beamline at Fermilab is a 95 cm long target made up of segmented graphite fins. It is the longest running NuMI target, which operated with a 120 GeV proton beam with maximum power of 340 kW, and saw an integrated total proton on target of 6.1 1020. Over the last half of its life, gradual degradation of neutrino yield was observed until the target was replaced. The probable causes for the target performance degradation are attributed to radiation damage, possibly including cracking caused by reduction in thermal shock resistance, as well as potential localized oxidation in the heated region of the target. Understanding the long-termstructural response of target materials exposed to proton irradiation is critical as future proton accelerator sources are becoming increasingly more powerful. As a result, an autopsy of the target was carried out to facilitate post-irradiation examination of selected graphite fins. Advanced microstructural imaging and surface elemental analysis techniques were used to characterize the condition of the fins in an effort to identify degradation mechanisms, and the relevant findings are presented in this paper.

The role of TNF-α, Fas/Fas ligand system and NT-proBNP in the early detection of asymptomatic left ventricular dysfunction in cancer patients treated with anthracyclines

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Alexandros Kouloubinis

2015-03-01

Conclusion: SFas, sFas-L and NT-proBNP correlate with reductions in LVEF and could be used as sensitive biochemical indices for the detection of asymptomatic left ventricular dysfunction in cancer patients under cardiotoxic chemotherapy.

Complete Genome Sequence of Bacillus subtilis Strain DKU_NT_03, Isolated from a Traditional Korean Food Using Soybean (Chung-gook-jang) for High-Quality Nattokinase Activity.

Science.gov (United States)

Jeong, Hee-Won; Bang, Man-Seok; Lee, Yea-Jin; Lee, Su Ji; Lee, Sang-Cheol; Shin, Jang-In; Oh, Chung-Hun

2018-06-21

We present here the complete genome sequence of Bacillus subtilis strain DKU_NT_03 isolated from the traditional Korean food chung-gook-jang, which is made from soybeans. This strain was chosen to identify genetic factors with high-quality nattokinase activity. Copyright © 2018 Jeong et al.

Nanosecond UV lasers stimulate transient Ca2+ elevations in human hNT astrocytes.

Science.gov (United States)

Raos, B J; Graham, E S; Unsworth, C P

2017-06-01

Astrocytes respond to various stimuli resulting in intracellular Ca 2+ signals that can propagate through organized functional networks. Recent literature calls for the development of techniques that can stimulate astrocytes in a fast and highly localized manner to emulate more closely the characteristics of astrocytic Ca 2+ signals in vivo. In this article we demonstrate, for the first time, how nanosecond UV lasers are capable of reproducibly stimulating Ca 2+ transients in human hNT astrocytes. We report that laser pulses with a beam energy of 4-29 µJ generate transient increases in cytosolic Ca 2+ . These Ca 2+ transients then propagate to adjacent astrocytes as intercellular Ca 2+ waves. We propose that nanosecond laser stimulation provides a valuable tool for enabling the study of Ca 2+ dynamics in human astrocytes at both a single cell and network level. Compared to previously developed techniques nanosecond laser stimulation has the advantage of not requiring loading of photo-caged or -sensitising agents, is non-contact, enables stimulation with a high spatiotemporal resolution and is comparatively cost effective.

Validity and limitations of the Nidek NT-4000 non-contact tonometer: a clinical study.

Science.gov (United States)

Regine, Federico; Scuderi, Gian Luca; Cesareo, Massimo; Ricci, Federico; Cedrone, Claudio; Nucci, Carlo

2006-01-01

Using Goldmann applanation tonometry (GAT) as a gold standard, we evaluated the accuracy of Nidek NT-4000 pneumotonometry (NPT) in adults without corneal disease. Bland and Altman analysis of serial intra-ocular pressures (IOPs) measured with NPT and GAT in 10 healthy subjects revealed that the repeatability coefficients for the two methods were similar. NPT, GAT and ultrasonic pachymetry were then performed in 100 patients. Bland and Altman analysis showed that NPT yielded significantly higher readings than GAT [mean biases for right and left eye measurements were 1.37 mmHg (95% limits of agreement: -3.02-5.76) and 1.17 mmHg (95% limits of agreement: -2.76-5.11) respectively] and was more affected by corneal thickness variations. For detection of IOPs > or =21 mmHg, NPT displayed very high sensitivity (0.90) and good specificity (0.95). NPT may be useful in screening and clinical settings but borderline-high IOP readings should be confirmed with GAT.

Effect of PVA Blending on Structural and Ion Transport Properties of CS:AgNt-Based Polymer Electrolyte Membrane

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Shujahadeen B. Aziz

2017-11-01

Full Text Available In this work, the role of poly(vinyl alcohol (PVA blending on structural and electrical properties of chitosan:silver nitrate systems is studied. The X-ray diffraction (XRD results show that the crystalline phase of chitosan (CS is greatly scarified by silver nitrate (AgNt salt. The crystalline domain of CS:AgNt is more broadened at 10 wt % of PVA. The spike and semicircular arcs can be separated in impedance plots. At high temperatures, the spike regions remained. The direct current (DC conductivity was calculated from the bulk resistance obtained from the impedance plots. The dielectric constant and DC conductivity versus PVA content exhibited similar behavior. The maximum DC conductivity at ambient temperature was 1.1 × 10−6 S/cm for 10 wt % of PVA. The DC ionic conductivity increased to 9.95 × 10−5 S/cm at 80 °C. Above 10 wt % of PVA, the drop in DC conductivity and dielectric constant were observed due to the increase in viscosity. Shifting of relaxation peaks towards the lower frequency revealed the increase of resistivity of the samples. The linear increase of DC conductivity versus 1000/T indicated that ion transport followed the Arrhenius model. The incomplete semicircular arc in Argand plots indicated the non-Debye type of relaxation process. The Argand plots were used to distinguish between conductivity relaxation and viscoelastic relaxation. Three regions were distinguished in the alternating current (AC spectra of the blend electrolyte samples. The plateau region in AC spectra was used to estimate the DC conductivity. The estimated DC conductivity from the AC spectra was close to those calculated from the impedance plots.

Delay or anticipatory synchronization in one-way coupled systems ...

Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

1Department of Physics, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Pune 411 ... Synchronization; variable time delay; time delay systems; secure communication. .... scheme can be defined as y(t − τ2) = x(t − τ1) or y(t) = x(t − τ1 + τ2).

On norm equivalence between the displacement and velocity vectors for free linear dynamical systems

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Ludwig Kohaupt

2015-12-01

Full Text Available As the main new result, under certain hypotheses, for free vibration problems, the norm equivalence of the displacement vector $ y(t $ and the velocity vector $ \\dot{y}(t $ is proven. The pertinent inequalities are applied to derive some two-sided bounds on $ y(t $ and $ \\dot{y}(t $ that are known so far only for the state vector $ x(t=[y^T(t, \\dot{y}^T(t]^T $. Sufficient algebraic conditions are given such that norm equivalence between $ y(t $ and $ \\dot{y}(t $ holds, respectively, does not hold, as the case may be. Numerical examples illustrate the results for vibration problems of n degrees of freedom with $ n \\in \\{ 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 \\} $ by computing the mentioned algebraic conditions and by plotting the graphs of $ y(t $ and $ \\dot{y}(t $. Some notations and definitions of References Kohaupt (2008b, 2011 are necessary and are therefore recapitulated. The paper is of interest to Mathematicians and Engineers.

Two distinct affinity binding sites for IL-1 on human cell lines

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bensimon, C.; Wakasugi, N.; Tagaya, Y.; Takakura, K.; Yodoi, J.; Tursz, T.; Wakasugi, H.

1989-01-01

We used two human cell lines, NK-like YT-C3 and an EBV-containing B cell line, 3B6, as models to study the receptor(s) for IL-1. Two distinct types of saturable binding sites were found on both cell lines at 37 degrees C. Between 1 pM and 100 pM of 125I-IL-1-alpha concentration, saturable binding sites were detected on the YT-C3 cells with a K of 4 x 10(-11) M. The K found for the IL-1-alpha binding sites on 3B6 cells was 7.5 x 10(-11) M. An additional binding curve was detected above 100 pM on YT-C3 cells with a K of 7 x 10(-9) M and on 3B6 cells with a K of 5 x 10(-9) M. Scatchard plot analysis revealed 600 sites/cell with high affinity binding and 7000 sites/cell with low affinity for YT-C3 cells and 300 sites/cell with high affinity binding and 6000 sites/cell with low affinity for 3B6 cells. At 37 degrees C, the internalization of 125I-labeled IL-1 occurred via both high and low affinity IL-1R on both YT-C3 and 3B6 cells, whereas the rates of internalization for high affinity binding sites on YT-C3 cells were predominant in comparison to that of low affinity binding sites. In chemical cross-linking studies of 125 I-IL-1-alpha to 3B6 and YT-C3 cells, two protein bands were immunoprecipitated with Mr around 85 to 90 kDa leading to an estimation of the Mr of the IL-1R around 68 to 72 kDa. In similar experiments, the Mr found for the IL-1R expressed on the murine T cell line EL4 was slightly higher (around 80 kDa). Whether these distinct affinity binding sites are shared by a single molecule or by various chains remains to be elucidated

Critical Terrorism Studies Since 11 September 2001: What Has Been Learned? Edited by David Miller, Jessie Blackbourn, Rani Dhanda and Helen Dexter. New York, NT: Routledge, 2014.

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Mark Roberts

2014-04-01

Full Text Available Critical Terrorism Studies Since 11 September 2001: What Has Been Learned? Edited by David Miller, Jessie Blackbourn, Rani Dhanda and Helen Dexter. New York, NT: Routledge, 2014. ISBN 978-0-415-83852-8. Graphs. Tables. Sources cited. Index. Pp. viii, 144. $137.75.

Vesicle-associated membrane protein 7 (VAMP-7) is essential for target cell killing in a natural killer cell line

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Marcet-Palacios, Marcelo; Odemuyiwa, Solomon O.; Coughlin, Jason J.; Garofoli, Daniella; Ewen, Catherine; Davidson, Courtney E.; Ghaffari, Mazyar; Kane, Kevin P.; Lacy, Paige; Logan, Michael R.; Befus, A. Dean; Bleackley, R. Chris; Moqbel, Redwan

2008-01-01

Natural killer cells recognize and induce apoptosis in foreign, transformed or virus-infected cells through the release of perforin and granzymes from secretory lysosomes. Clinically, NK-cell mediated killing is a major limitation to successful allo- and xenotransplantation. The molecular mechanisms that regulate the fusion of granzyme B-containing secretory lysosomes to the plasma membrane in activated NK cells, prior to target cell killing, are not fully understood. Using the NK cell line YT-Indy as a model, we have investigated the expression of SNAP REceptors (SNAREs), both target (t-) and vesicular (v-) SNAREs, and their function in granzyme B-mediated target cell killing. Our data showed that YT-Indy cells express VAMP-7 and SNAP-23, but not VAMP-2. VAMP-7 was associated with granzyme B-containing lysosomal granules. Using VAMP-7 small interfering RNA (siRNA), we successfully knocked down the expression of VAMP-7 protein in YT-Indy to less than 10% of untreated cells in 24 h. VAMP7-deficient YT-Indy cells activated via co-culture with Jurkat cells released <1 ng/mL of granzyme B, compared to 1.5-2.5 μg/mL from controls. Using Jurkat cells as targets, we showed a 7-fold reduction in NK cell-mediated killing by VAMP-7 deficient YT-Indy cells. Our results show that VAMP-7 is a crucial component of granzyme B release and target cell killing in the NK cell line YT-Indy. Thus, targeting VAMP-7 expression specifically with siRNA, following transplantation, may be a viable strategy for preventing NK cell-mediated transplant rejection, in vivo

Polymorphisms in the B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) gene are associated with NT-proBNP levels but not with diabetic nephropathy or mortality in type 1 diabetic patients

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Lajer, Maria Stenkil; Tarnow, Lise; Jorsal, Anders

2007-01-01

BACKGROUND: Circulating N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) levels are elevated in patients with diabetic nephropathy and independently predict excess cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Therefore, we investigated the association between two polymorphisms -381T/C and 1551G....../A of the BNP gene, plasma NT-proBNP levels and mortality prognosis in 380 type 1 diabetic patients with and without diabetic nephropathy. METHODS: In a prospective observational follow-up study, 197 type 1 diabetic patients with diabetic nephropathy {121 men, age [mean (SD)] 41 +/- 9.5 years, duration...... of diabetes 28 +/- 8.0 years, glomerular filtration rate 67 +/- 28 ml/min/1.73 m2}, and a matched control group of 183 patients with longstanding type 1 diabetes and persistent normoalbuminuria (111 men, age 43 +/- 10.0 years, duration of diabetes 27 +/- 8.3 years) were followed for 12.6 (0.0-12.9) years...

Social CRM -kehitysprojekti

OpenAIRE

Pohjoismäki, Lauri

2017-01-01

Työn tavoitteena oli löytää ratkaisu digitaaliseen markkinointiin erikoistuneen yrityksen ongelmaan ajankäytöstä sosiaalisen median hallinnassa. Yrityksen nykyisellä asiakasmäärällä ei ole enää kannattavaa ajankäytännöllisesti hallita jokaista asiakasyrityksen sosiaalisen median tiliä erikseen, vaan niille on löydettävä keskitetty hallintaympäristö. Työssäni käsiteltiin erilaisia Social CRM -sovelluksia sekä pohdittiin niiden käyttöarvoa ja soveltuvuutta yrityksen käyttöön. Työ myös sivua...

Choice of marker for assessment of RV dysfunction in acute pulmonary embolism : NT-proBNP, pulmonary artery systolic pressure, mean arterial pressure, or blood pressure index.

Science.gov (United States)

Ates, H; Ates, I; Kundi, H; Yilmaz, F M

2017-12-01

We aimed to examine the value of NT-proBNP, pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP), blood pressure index (BPI), and mean arterial pressure (MAP) in the determination of right ventricular dysfunction (RVD) in patients with acute pulmonary embolism (APE). A total of 547 patients diagnosed with APE were included in the study. Demographic characteristics and comorbid conditions of patients were recorded in patient files. For blood pressure measurement, a calibrated digital blood pressure monitor was used at regular intervals. Blood samples were taken from patients at the time of admission for hemogram, biochemical, and hemostasis blood tests. Echocardiography was performed on all patients to detect RVD and evaluate pulmonary artery pressure. PASP (p blood pressure (p blood cell (p AUC ± SE = 0.975 ± 0.006; p < 0.001) was found to be the best predictor of RVD with a higher sensitivity (92.8%) and specificity (100%). We found that BPI had a better diagnostic discrimination for RVD compared with PASP and NT-proBNP.

Physical characteristics of bald eagle eggs from Maine, 2000 to 2012

Data.gov (United States)

Department of the Interior — Between 2000 and 2012, 91 abandoned or non‐viable bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) eggs were collected from55 nest territories in inland and coastal habitats in...

Molecular immune recognition of botulinum neurotoxin B. The light chain regions that bind human blocking antibodies from toxin-treated cervical dystonia patients. Antigenic structure of the entire BoNT/B molecule.

Science.gov (United States)

Atassi, M Zouhair; Jankovic, Joseph; Steward, Lance E; Aoki, K Roger; Dolimbek, Behzod Z

2012-01-01

We recently mapped the regions on the heavy (H) chain of botulinum neurotoxin, type B (BoNT/B) recognized by blocking antibodies (Abs) from cervical dystonia (CD) patients who develop immunoresistance during toxin treatment. Since blocking could also be effected by Abs directed against regions on the light (L) chain, we have mapped here the L chain, using the same 30 CD antisera. We synthesized, purified and characterized 32 19-residue L chain peptides that overlapped successively by 5 residues (peptide L32 overlapped with peptide N1 of the H chain by 12 residues). In a given patient, Abs against the L chain seemed less intense than those against H chain. Most sera recognized a limited set of L chain peptides. The levels of Abs against a given region varied with the patient, consistent with immune responses to each epitope being under separate MHC control. The peptides most frequently recognized were: L13, by 30 of 30 antisera (100%); L22, by 23 of 30 (76.67%); L19, by 15 of 30 (50.00%); L26, by 11 of 30 (36.70%); and L14, by 12 of 30 (40.00%). The activity of L14 probably derives from its overlap with L13. The levels of Ab binding decreased in the following order: L13 (residues 169-187), L22 (295-313), L19 (253-271), and L26 (351-369). Peptides L12 (155-173), L18 (239-257), L15 (197-215), L1 (1-19) and L23 (309-327) exhibited very low Ab binding. The remaining peptides had little or no Ab-binding activity. The antigenic regions are analyzed in terms of their three-dimensional locations and the enzyme active site. With the previous localization of the antigenic regions on the BoNT/B H chain, the human Ab recognition of the entire BoNT/B molecule is presented and compared to the recognition of BoNT/A by human blocking Abs. Copyright © 2011. Published by Elsevier GmbH.

High-sensitivity C-reactive protein does not improve the differential diagnosis of HNF1A-MODY and familial young-onset type 2 diabetes: A grey zone analysis.

Science.gov (United States)

Bellanné-Chantelot, C; Coste, J; Ciangura, C; Fonfrède, M; Saint-Martin, C; Bouché, C; Sonnet, E; Valéro, R; Lévy, D-J; Dubois-Laforgue, D; Timsit, J

2016-02-01

Low plasma levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) have been suggested to differentiate hepatocyte nuclear factor 1 alpha-maturity-onset diabetes of the young (HNF1A-MODY) from type 2 diabetes (T2D). Yet, differential diagnosis of HNF1A-MODY and familial young-onset type 2 diabetes (F-YT2D) remains a difficult challenge. Thus, this study assessed the added value of hs-CRP to distinguish between the two conditions. This prospective multicentre study included 143 HNF1A-MODY patients, 310 patients with a clinical history suggestive of HNF1A-MODY, but not confirmed genetically (F-YT2D), and 215 patients with T2D. The ability of models, including clinical characteristics and hs-CRP to predict HNF1A-MODY was analyzed, using the area of the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) curve, and a grey zone approach was used to evaluate these models in clinical practice. Median hs-CRP values were lower in HNF1A-MODY (0.25mg/L) than in F-YT2D (1.14mg/L) and T2D (1.70mg/L) patients. Clinical parameters were sufficient to differentiate HNF1A-MODY from classical T2D (AUROC: 0.99). AUROC analyses to distinguish HNF1A-MODY from F-YT2D were 0.82 for clinical features and 0.87 after including hs-CRP. For the grey zone analysis, the lower boundary was set to missMODY with F-YT2D, 65% of patients were classified in between these categories - in the zone of diagnostic uncertainty - even after adding hs-CRP to clinical parameters. hs-CRP does not improve the differential diagnosis of HNF1A-MODY and F-YT2D. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Social media and scientific research are complementary-YouTube and shrikes as a case study.

Science.gov (United States)

Dylewski, Łukasz; Mikula, Peter; Tryjanowski, Piotr; Morelli, Federico; Yosef, Reuven

2017-06-01

Fascination with animals and their behaviour is one the most prominent patterns persisting in all human cultures. During the last decades, however, technological development and public access to the Internet have increased the speed and the extent of information sharing at an unprecedented rate, in some cases even challenging the traditional methods used in science. In order to understand the extent of this influence, we focused on the behaviour of shrikes. Shrikes are an enigmatic group of songbirds with a unique behaviour of impaling prey. We employed an extensive Internet search on YouTube (YT), a very popular and increasingly important source of information worldwide, for videos recording shrikes. Our analyses revealed that the number of shrike videos on YT is strongly positively correlated with classical knowledge on shrikes from books and scientific articles. Our results also suggest that in some cases YT may provide an alternative source of information on shrike ecology and behaviour. YT videos may thus provide new insights into the study of certain species or subjects and help identify gaps in ecological studies, especially in poorly studied species.

Study of the $H \\rightarrow b\\bar{b}$ in association with a single top quark

CERN Document Server

AUTHOR|(CDS)2266532

2017-01-01

The production of the Higgs boson in association with a single top quark. $tH$ is a very important process for testing the Standard Model theory. There are three production channels: associated production with $W$, t-channel and s-channel. In this study only $tHq$ production with $H\\rightarrow b\\bar{b}$ decay and top leptonic decay has been generated and analyzed. The $tH$ production is important for probing the sign of the Higgs-top Yukawa coupling, $y_{t}$. Namely, there is an interference between diagrams which depends on the relative sign of $y_{t}$. LO Madgraph is used as a tool for generating events, calculating the cross-sections and Feynmann diagrams. The cross-section is parameterized as a continuous function of $y_{t}$. The kinematics of the process appears to be dependent on the $y_{t}$ used. In addition, the dominant background from $t\\bar{t}$ production with heavy flavor jets has been generated and potential discriminating variables to separate $tH$ from this background have been analyzed and dis...

Social media and scientific research are complementary—YouTube and shrikes as a case study

Science.gov (United States)

Dylewski, Łukasz; Mikula, Peter; Tryjanowski, Piotr; Morelli, Federico; Yosef, Reuven

2017-06-01

Fascination with animals and their behaviour is one the most prominent patterns persisting in all human cultures. During the last decades, however, technological development and public access to the Internet have increased the speed and the extent of information sharing at an unprecedented rate, in some cases even challenging the traditional methods used in science. In order to understand the extent of this influence, we focused on the behaviour of shrikes. Shrikes are an enigmatic group of songbirds with a unique behaviour of impaling prey. We employed an extensive Internet search on YouTube (YT), a very popular and increasingly important source of information worldwide, for videos recording shrikes. Our analyses revealed that the number of shrike videos on YT is strongly positively correlated with classical knowledge on shrikes from books and scientific articles. Our results also suggest that in some cases YT may provide an alternative source of information on shrike ecology and behaviour. YT videos may thus provide new insights into the study of certain species or subjects and help identify gaps in ecological studies, especially in poorly studied species.

Chromosome Banding in Amphibia. XXXVI. Multimorphic Sex Chromosomes and an Enigmatic Sex Determination in Eleutherodactylus johnstonei (Anura, Eleutherodactylidae).

Science.gov (United States)

Schmid, Michael; Steinlein, Claus

2018-01-01

A detailed cytogenetic study on the leaf litter frog Eleutherodactylus johnstonei from 14 different Caribbean islands and the mainlands of Venezuela and Guyana revealed the existence of multimorphic XY♂/XX♀ sex chromosomes 14. Their male sex determination and development depends either on the presence of 2 telocentric chromosomes 14 (XtYt), or on 1 submetacentric chromosome 14 (Xsm) plus 1 telocentric chromosome 14 (Yt), or on the presence of 2 submetacentric chromosomes 14 (XsmYsm). The female sex determination and development requires either the presence of 2 telocentric chromosomes 14 (XtXt) or 2 submetacentric chromosomes 14 (XsmXsm). In all individuals analyzed, the sex chromosomes 14 carry a prominent nucleolus organizer region in their long arms. An explanation is given for the origin of the (XtYt)♂, (XsmYt)♂, (XsmYsm)♂, (XtXt)♀, and (XsmXsm)♀ in the different populations of E. johnstonei. Furthermore, the present study gives detailed data on the chromosome banding patterns, in situ hybridization experiments, and the genome size of E. johnstonei. © 2018 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Mechanism of Activating the Proprioceptive NT-3/TrkC Signalling Pathway by Reverse Intervention for the Anterior Cruciate Ligament–Hamstring Reflex Arc with Electroacupuncture

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Lei Zhang

2018-01-01

Full Text Available The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL is an important structure maintaining stability of the knee joints. Deficits in physical stability and the proprioceptive capabilities of the knee joints are observed, when the ACL is damaged. Additionally, a unilateral ACL injury can affect bilateral knee proprioception; therefore, proprioception of the ACL may play a key role in stability. Electroacupuncture therapy has a definite effect nerve regeneration. In this study, cynomolgus monkeys were randomly divided into 4 groups: the model control group, intervention of the injured knee with electroacupuncture (IIKE group, intervention of the bilateral knees with electroacupuncture (IBKE group, and the blank control group. The unilateral ACL injury model was developed in IIKE and IBKE groups; acupuncture points around the knees underwent intervention similarly in the IIKE and IBKE groups. Then, mRNA and protein expressions of NT-3 and TrkC in the dorsal root ganglion and of growth-associated protein-43 in the ACL increased according to reverse-transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting results. Decreased incubations and increased amplitudes were found for somatosensory-evoked potentials and motor nerve conduction velocity. The finding indicates that electroacupuncture may play an important role in the recovery of proprioception in the ACL by activating the NT-3/TrkC signalling pathway.

Comparison of arsenic, cadmium, chromium, lead, manganese, mercury and selenium in feathers in bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus), and comparison with common eider (Somateria mollissima), glaucous-winged gull (Larus glaucescens), pigeon guillemot (Cepphus columba), and tufted puffin (Fratercula cirrhata) from the Aleutian Chain of Alaska

Science.gov (United States)

Burger, Joanna; Gochfeld, Michael

2014-01-01

There is an abundance of field data for levels of metals from a range of places, but relatively few from the North Pacific Ocean and Bering Sea. In this paper we examine the levels of arsenic, cadmium, chromium, lead, manganese, mercury and selenium in feathers from common eiders (Somateria mollissima), glaucous-winged gulls (Larus glaucescens), pigeon guillemots (Cepphus columba), tufted puffins (Fratercula cirrhata) and bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) from the Aleutian Chain of Alaska. Our primary objective was to test the hypothesis that there are no trophic levels relationships for arsenic, cadmium, chromium, lead, manganese, mercury and selenium among these five species of birds breeding in the marine environment of the Aleutians. There were significant interspecific differences in all metal levels. As predicted bald eagles had the highest levels of arsenic, chromium, lead, and manganese, but puffins had the highest levels of selenium, and pigeon guillemot had higher levels of mercury than eagles (although the differences were not significant). Common eiders, at the lowest trophic level had the lowest levels of some metals (chromium, mercury and selenium). However, eiders had higher levels than all other species (except eagles) for arsenic, cadmium, lead, and manganese. Levels of lead were higher in breast than in wing feathers of bald eagles. Except for lead, there were no significant differences in metal levels in feathers of bald eagles nesting on Adak and Amchitka Island; lead was higher on Adak than Amchitka. Eagle chicks tended to have lower levels of manganese than older eagles. PMID:18521716

Spinal electro-magnetic stimulation combined with transgene delivery of neurotrophin NT-3 and exercise: novel combination therapy for spinal contusion injury.

Science.gov (United States)

Petrosyan, Hayk A; Alessi, Valentina; Hunanyan, Arsen S; Sisto, Sue A; Arvanian, Victor L

2015-11-01

Our recent terminal experiments revealed that administration of a single train of repetitive spinal electromagnetic stimulation (sEMS; 35 min) enhanced synaptic plasticity in spinal circuitry following lateral hemisection spinal cord injury. In the current study, we have examined effects of repetitive sEMS applied as a single train and chronically (5 wk, every other day) following thoracic T10 contusion. Chronic studies involved examination of systematic sEMS administration alone and combined with exercise training and transgene delivery of neurotrophin [adeno-associated virus 10-neurotrophin 3 (AAV10-NT3)]. Electrophysiological intracellular/extracellular recordings, immunohistochemistry, behavioral testing, and anatomical tracing were performed to assess effects of treatments. We found that administration of a single sEMS train induced transient facilitation of transmission through preserved lateral white matter to motoneurons and hindlimb muscles in chronically contused rats with effects lasting for at least 2 h. These physiological changes associated with increased immunoreactivity of GluR1 and GluR2/3 glutamate receptors in lumbar neurons. Systematic administration of sEMS alone for 5 wk, however, was unable to induce cumulative improvements of transmission in spinomuscular circuitry or improve impaired motor function following thoracic contusion. Encouragingly, chronic administration of sEMS, followed by exercise training (running in an exercise ball and swimming), induced the following: 1) sustained strengthening of transmission to lumbar motoneurons and hindlimb muscles, 2) better retrograde transport of anatomical tracer, and 3) improved locomotor function. Greatest improvements were seen in the group that received exercise combined with sEMS and AAV-NT3.

Functional characterization of a recombinant sodium-dependent nucleoside transporter with selectivity for pyrimidine nucleosides (cNT1rat) by transient expression in cultured mammalian cells.

OpenAIRE

Fang, X; Parkinson, F E; Mowles, D A; Young, J D; Cass, C E

1996-01-01

We have demonstrated that monkey kidney (COS-1) cells have a single type of nucleoside transport process, which, because it was equilibrative, sodium-independent and could be inhibited by nitrobenzylthioinosine (NBMPR), was identified as the 'equilibrative sensitive' or 'es' transporter. Using NBMPR or dilazep to inhibit the endogenous nucleoside transport activity, we have transiently expressed a cDNA that encodes an inhibitor-insensitive, concentrative nucleoside transporter protein (cNT1ra...

Research Article

African Journals Online (AJOL)

2017-09-01

Sep 1, 2017 ... (y=at+b) cloud point (t, Yt) which minimizes the distance is determined Σ (Yt - (at + b)). 2 . This ... Ct0 and Ctf initial and final values calculated using the regression at time t0 (January 2003) and tf. (December 2012) ... 2003 to 2012 gen in water reservoir has recorded a negative trend of 2%, this is con.

Stability analysis of a class of fractional delay differential equations

Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

Abstract. In this paper we analyse stability of nonlinear fractional order delay differential equa- tions of the form Dα y(t) = af (y(t − τ )) − by(t), where Dα is a Caputo fractional derivative of order 0 < α ≤ 1. We describe stability regions using critical curves. To explain the proposed theory, we discuss fractional order logistic ...

Hyers-Ulam stability of linear second-order differential equations in complex Banach spaces

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Yongjin Li

2013-08-01

Full Text Available We prove the Hyers-Ulam stability of linear second-order differential equations in complex Banach spaces. That is, if y is an approximate solution of the differential equation $y''+ alpha y'(t +eta y = 0$ or $y''+ alpha y'(t +eta y = f(t$, then there exists an exact solution of the differential equation near to y.

Karvian seurakunnan henkilöstötilinpäätös

OpenAIRE

Vaskela, Soila

2008-01-01

Tässä opinnäytetyössä tutkittiin yleisesti sekä käytännössä henkilöstötilinpäätöksen tarkoitusta ja sisältöä. Kohdeorganisaation eli Karvian seurakunnan avulla rakennettiin käytännön esimerkki seurakunnan ensimmäisestä henkilöstötilinpäätöksestä. Tutkimuksen tavoitteena oli löytää oikeat ratkaisut henkilöstötilinpäätöksen rakentamiseen organisaatiossa, jossa kyseinen asiakirja ei vielä ole tunnettu. Lisäksi tavoitteena oli laatia seurakunnalle käyttökelpoinen henkilöstötilinpäätösmalli, jota ...

Distributed mass data acquisition system based on PCs and windows NT for LHD fusion plasma experiment

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nakanishi, H.; Kojima, M.; Ohsuna, M.; Komada, S.; Emoto, M.; Sugisaki, H.; Sudo, S.

2000-12-01

A new data acquisition and management system has been developed for the LHD experiment. It has the capability to process 100 MB - 1 GB raw data within a few tens seconds after every plasma discharge. It employs wholly distributed and loosely-tied parallel tasking structure through a fast network, and the cluster of the distributed database severs seems to be a virtual macro-machine as a whole. A PC/Windows NT computer is installed for each diagnostics data acquisition of about 30 kinds, and it controls CAMAC digitizers through the optical SCSI extenders. The diagnostic timing system consists of some kinds of VME modules that are installed to remotely control the diagnostic devices in real-time. They can, as a whole system, distribute the synchronous sampling clocks and programmable triggers for measurement digitizers. The data retrieving terminals can access database as application service clients, and are functionally separated from the data acquisition severs by way of the switching Ethernet. (author)

Interplanetary Shocks Inducing Magnetospheric Supersubstorms (SML < ‑2500 nT): Unusual Auroral Morphologies and Energy Flow

Science.gov (United States)

Hajra, Rajkumar; Tsurutani, Bruce T.

2018-05-01

We present case studies of two interplanetary shock-induced supersubstorms (SSSs) with extremely high intensities (peak SML ‑4418 and ‑2668 nT) and long durations (∼1.7 and ∼3.1 hr). The events occurred on 2005 January 21 and 2010 April 5, respectively. It is shown that these SSSs have a different auroral evolution than a nominal Akasofu-type substorm. The auroras associated with the SSSs did not have the standard midnight onset and following expansion. Instead, at the time of the SML index peak, the midnight sector was generally devoid of intense auroras, while the most intense auroras were located in the premidnight and postmidnight magnetic local times. Precursor energy input through magnetic reconnection was insufficient to balance the large ionospheric energy dissipation during the SSSs. It is argued that besides the release of stored magnetotail energy during the SSSs, these were powered by additional direct driving through both dayside magnetic reconnection and solar wind ram energy.

[Tiit-Rein Viitso. Līvõkīel-estikīel-leţkīel sõnārōntõz] / Eberhard Winkler

Index Scriptorium Estoniae

Winkler, Eberhard, 1955-

2013-01-01

Arvustus: Līvõkīel-estikīel-leţkīel sõnārōntõz = Liivi-eesti-läti sõnaraamat = Lībiešu-igauņu-latviešu vārdnīca / [koostamine:] Tiit-Rein Viitso, [toimetamine ja läti vasted:] Valts Ernštreits. Riga : Latviešu valodas aģentūra ; Tartu : Tartu Ülikool, 2012

Flexure of Thick Plates Resting on Elastic Foundation Using Two-Variable Refined Plate Theory

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Rouzegar Jafar

2015-06-01

Full Text Available Wpublikacji wykorzystano udoskonalona teorie płyty z dwiema zmiennymi do analizy grubych płyt spoczywajacych na sprezystym podłozu. Teoria ta, która zawiera tylko dwa nieznane parametry, pozwala przewidziec paraboliczna zmiennosc naprezen scinajacych. W teorii jest spełniony warunek zerowej trakcji na powierzchni płyty bez uzycia współczynnika korekcyjnego dla scinania. Stosujac zasade minimum energii potencjalnej wyprowadzono równania rzadzace dla płyt prostokatnych o prostym podparciu spoczywajacych na sprezystym podłozu Winklera. Do rozwiazania otrzymanego układu równan sprzezonych zaadoptowano metode Naviera. Obecna teoria pozwoliła rozwiazac szereg przykładowych problemów płyt przy róznych warunkach obciazenia. Porównanie otrzymanych rezultatów z uzyskanymi w innych znanych teoriach wykazuje doskonala efektywnosc stosowanej teorii w modelowaniu grubych płyt spoczywajacych na podłozu sprezystym. Przestudiowano takze wpływ modułu sprezystosci podłoza, grubosci płyty i typu obciazenia. Wyniki pokazuja, ze ugiecia płyty maleja przy wzroscie modułu sprezystosci podłoza i grubosci płyty

Phenotypic Characterization of a Novel Virulence-Factor Deletion Strain of Burkholderia mallei that Provides Partial Protection against Inhalational Glanders in Mice

Science.gov (United States)

2016-02-26

Fort Detrick, MD, USA, 2 Telemedicine and Advanced Technology Research Center, Biotechnology HPC Software Applications Institute, United States Army...allelic exchange mutants, we grew the Bm cointegrate strain in yeast- extract tryptone (YT) broth medium and then serially diluted it onto YT agar...indicated. Cells were fixed with 4% paraformaldehyde and then blocked in PBS containing 0.25% saponin , 0.2% Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA) fraction V

Annealed asymptotics for the parabolic Anderson model with a moving catalyst

NARCIS (Netherlands)

Gärtner, J.; Heydenreich, M.O.

2006-01-01

This paper deals with the solution u to the parabolic Anderson equation ¿u/¿t=¿¿u+¿u on the lattice . We consider the case where the potential ¿ is time-dependent and has the form ¿(t,x)=d0(x-Yt) with Yt being a simple random walk with jump rate 2d. The solution u may be interpreted as the

Desenvolvimento de uma estrutura de controle de posição aplicada ao Manipulador Robótico RD5NT

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Sergio Assis Galito Araujo

2015-02-01

Full Text Available Neste trabalho é desenvolvida uma estrutura de controle de posição do tipo RASTRO e aplicada no estudo de caso com uso do manipulador robótico modelo RD5NT do fabricante Didacta Itália. São detalhados a formulação matemática da estrutura de controle assim como os procedimentos adotados para gerar a trajetória desejada e para identificar em tempo real o modelo matemático do manipulador robótico. A seguir, a estrutura de controle apresentada é implementada numericamente e, através de simulações numéricas, é avaliada a qualidade do controlador proposto.

A randomised controlled trial of adjunctive yoga and adjunctive physical exercise training for cognitive dysfunction in schizophrenia.

Science.gov (United States)

Bhatia, Triptish; Mazumdar, Sati; Wood, Joel; He, Fanyin; Gur, Raquel E; Gur, Ruben C; Nimgaonkar, Vishwajit L; Deshpande, Smita N

2017-04-01

Yoga and physical exercise have been used as adjunctive intervention for cognitive dysfunction in schizophrenia (SZ), but controlled comparisons are lacking. Aims A single-blind randomised controlled trial was designed to evaluate whether yoga training or physical exercise training enhance cognitive functions in SZ, based on a prior pilot study. Consenting, clinically stable, adult outpatients with SZ (n=286) completed baseline assessments and were randomised to treatment as usual (TAU), supervised yoga training with TAU (YT) or supervised physical exercise training with TAU (PE). Based on the pilot study, the primary outcome measure was speed index for the cognitive domain of 'attention' in the Penn computerised neurocognitive battery. Using mixed models and contrasts, cognitive functions at baseline, 21 days (end of training), 3 and 6 months post-training were evaluated with intention-to-treat paradigm. Speed index of attention domain in the YT group showed greater improvement than PE at 6 months follow-up (pattention domain showed greater improvement than TAU alone at 6-month follow-up (pattention and additional cognitive domains well past the training period, supporting our prior reported beneficial effect of YT on speed index of attention domain. As adjuncts, YT or PE can benefit individuals with SZ.

Preserved glucagon-like peptide-1 responses to oral glucose, but reduced incretin effect, insulin secretion and sensitivity in young Asians with type 2 diabetes mellitus

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Yeow, Toh Peng; Pacini, Giovanni; Tura, Andrea

2017-01-01

are scarce. We examined the insulin resistance, β-cell function (BC), glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-1 hormone and incretin effect in Asian YT2DM. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: This case-control study recruited 25 Asian YT2DM and 15 healthy controls, matched for gender, ethnicity and body mass index. Serum......OBJECTIVE: Youth onset type 2 diabetes mellitus (YT2DM) is a globally rising phenomenon with substantial Asians representation. The understanding of its pathophysiology is derived largely from studies in the obese African-American and Caucasian populations, while studies on incretin effect...... glucose, insulin, C peptide and GLP-1 were sampled during 2-hour oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTTs) and 1-hour intravenous glucose tolerance tests (IVGTTs). Insulin sensitivity was derived from the Quantitative Insulin Sensitivity Check Index (QUICKI), Oral Glucose Insulin Sensitivity Index (OGIS...

Ayrıntılandırma Olasılığı Modeli ve Uygulama Alanları

OpenAIRE

Kıymalıoğlu, Aslıhan

2014-01-01

İkna kavramını açıklayan önemli modellerden biri, ikna sürecinde merkezi ve çevresel ikna yolu olmak üzere iki süreç bulunduğunu savunan Ayrıntılandırma Olasılığı Modeli’dir. Türkçe yazında modeli kapsamlı bir şekilde ele alan bir çalışmaya rastlanılmamış olması dolayısıyla, modelin detaylı anlatımını ve modelle ilgili literatür taramasını içeren çalışmanın bu konuda bir boşluğu doldurduğu düşünülmektedir. Yapılan literatür taraması bulguları modelin en fazla pazarlama ve reklam alanlarındaki...

Measuring the Non-Line-of-Sight Ultra-High-Frequency Channel in Mountainous Terrain: A Spread-Spectrum, Portable Channel Sounder

Science.gov (United States)

2018-03-01

5), correlating each side of equation (3) with a transmit- ted signal, x [t], yields [] = ℎ[] ∗ []. (6) Here...i.e., input), x [t], and the complex-valued received signal (i.e., output), y[t], via the convolution function (Papazian and Lemmon 2011), which is...Rxy is the cross-correlation function of x [t] and y[t], and Rxx is the autocorrelation function of x [t]. The additive noise component is dropped

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and neurotrophin 3 (NT3) levels in post-mortem brain tissue from patients with depression compared to healthy individuals - a proof of concept study.

Science.gov (United States)

Sheldrick, A; Camara, S; Ilieva, M; Riederer, P; Michel, T M

2017-10-01

The neurotrophic factors (NTF) hypothesis of depression was postulated nearly a decade ago and is nowadays widely acknowledged. Previous reports suggest that cerebral concentrations of NTF may be reduced in suicide victims who received minimal or no antidepressant pharmacotherapy. Recent evidence suggests that antidepressant treatment may improve or normalise cerebral concentrations of neurotrophic factors. Therefore, we examined the concentration of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and neurotrophin 3 (NT3) in different brain regions (cortex, cingulate gyrus, thalamus, hippocampus, putamen and nucleus caudatus) of 21 individuals - 7 patients of which 4 patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) and overall age 86.8±5 years who received antidepressant pharmacotherapy (selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors [SSRI]; tricyclic antidepressants [TCA]), 3 patients with MDD without antidepressant treatment and overall age 84.3±5 years versus 14 unaffected subjects at age 70.3±13.8. We detected significant elevation of BDNF (parietal cortex) and NT3 (parietal, temporal and occipital cortex, cingulate gyrus, thalamus, putamen and nucleus caudatus regions) in MDD patients who received antidepressant medication compared to MDD untreated patients and controls. Moreover, we detected a significant decrease of NT3 levels in the parietal cortex of patients suffering from MDD non-treated patients without treatment compared to healthy individuals. Although the limited statistical power due to the small sample size in this proof of concept study corroborates data from previous studies, which show that treatment with antidepressants mediates alterations in neuroplasticity via the action of NTF. However, more research using post-mortem brain tissue with larger samples needs to be carried out as well as longitudinal studies to further verify these results. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Effects of Resistance Training on Matrix Metalloproteinase Activity in Skeletal Muscles and Blood Circulation During Aging

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Ivo V. de Sousa Neto

2018-03-01

Full Text Available Aging is a complex, multifactorial process characterized by the accumulation of deleterious effects, including biochemical adaptations of the extracellular matrix (ECM. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of 12 weeks of resistance training (RT on metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2 activity in skeletal muscles and, MMP-2 and MMP-9 activity in the blood circulation of young and old rats. Twenty-eight Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 7 per group: young sedentary (YS; young trained (YT, old sedentary (OS, and old trained (OT. The stair climbing RT consisted of one training session every 2 other day, with 8–12 dynamic movements per climb. The animals were euthanized 48 h after the end of the experimental period. MMP-2 and MMP-9 activity was measured by zymography. There was higher active MMP-2 activity in the lateral gastrocnemius and flexor digitorum profundus muscles in the OT group when compared to the OS, YS, and YT groups (p ≤ 0.001. Moreover, there was higher active MMP-2 activity in the medial gastrocnemius muscle in the OT group when compared to the YS and YT groups (p ≤ 0.001. The YS group presented lower active MMP-2 activity in the soleus muscle than the YT, OS, OT groups (p ≤ 0.001. With respect to active MMP-2/9 activity in the bloodstream, the OT group displayed significantly reduced activity (p ≤ 0.001 when compared to YS and YT groups. In conclusion, RT up-regulates MMP-2 activity in aging muscles, while down-regulating MMP-2 and MMP-9 in the blood circulation, suggesting that it may be a useful tool for the maintenance of ECM remodeling.

Short-term effects of cardiac steroids on intracellular membrane traffic in neuronal NT2 cells.

Science.gov (United States)

Rosen, H; Glukmann, V; Feldmann, T; Fridman, E; Lichtstein, D

2006-12-30

Cardiac steroids (CS) are specific inhibitors of Na+, K+-ATPase activity. Although the presence of CS-like compounds in animal tissues has been established, their physiological role is not clear. In a previous study we showed that in pulse-chase membrane-labeling experiments, long term (hours) interaction of CS at physiological concentrations (nM) with Na+, K+-ATPase, caused changes in endocytosed membrane traffic in human NT2 cells. This was associated with the accumulation of large vesicles adjacent to the nucleus. For this sequence of events to function in the physiological setting, however, CS would be expected to modify membrane traffic upon short term (min) exposure and membrane labeling. We now demonstrate that CS affects membrane traffic also following a short exposure. This was reflected by the CS-induced accumulation of FM1-43 and transferrin in the cells, as well as by changes in their colocalization with Na+, K+-ATPase. We also show that the CS-induced changes in membrane traffic following up to 2 hrs exposure are reversible, whereas longer treatment induces irreversible effects. Based on these observations, we propose that endogenous CS-like compounds are physiological regulators of the recycling of endocytosed membrane proteins and cargo in neuronal cells, and may affect basic mechanisms such as neurotransmitter release and reuptake.

Dicty_cDB: VSD225 [Dicty_cDB

Lifescience Database Archive (English)

Full Text Available yt*imskaqavgsnyrvslglpvgavmnsadnsgaknlyviavkgikgrlnrlpsagvgd mvmatvkkgkpelrkkvctglvvrqrkhwkrkdgvyiyfednagvmcnp...nsadnsgaknlyviavkgikgrlnrlpsag vgdmvmatvkkgkpelrkkvctglvvrqrkhwkrkdgvyiyfednagvmcnpkgevkgni lgpvakecsdlwpkva

The effect of kleptoparasitic bald eagles and gyrfalcons on the kill rate of peregrine falcons hunting dunlins wintering in British Columbia

NARCIS (Netherlands)

Dekker, T.J.; Out, M.; Tabak, M.; Ydenberg, R.C.

2012-01-01

Kleptoparasitism in birds has been the subject of much research, and the Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) is a known kleptoparasite. It has been reported to pirate ducks captured by Peregrine Falcons (Falco peregrinus), but ours is the first study to examine the effect of kleptoparasitic Bald

PREFACE: International Conference on Functional Materials and Nanotechnologies (FM&NT2012)

Science.gov (United States)

Sternberg, Andris; Muzikante, Inta; Sarakovskis, Anatolijs; Grinberga, Liga

2012-08-01

The International Conference Functional Materials and Nanotechnologies (FM&NT - 2012) was held in Riga, 17-20 April 2012 at the Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia (ISSP UL). The conference was organised by ISSP UL in co-operation with National Research programme in Materials Science and Information Technologies of Latvia. The purpose of this series of conferences is to bring together scientists, researchers, engineers and students from universities, research institutes and related industrial companies working in the field of advanced material science, energy and materials technologies. The contributions of the participants were grouped according to three main topics of the conference: 1. Multifunctional Materials including advanced inorganic, organic and hybrid materials; ferroics; multiscale and multiphenomenal material modeling and simulation 2. Nanotechnologies including progressive methods, technologies and design for investigation of nanoparticles, nanostructures, nanocomposites, thin films and coatings; 3. Energy including perspective materials and technologies for renewable and hydrogen energy, fuel cells, photovoltaics and developing diverse energy systems. A special section devoted to Organic Materials was organized to commemorate a long-time organizer of the FM&NT conference series, Dr. habil. phys, academician Inta Muzikante who passed away on 15 February 2012. The number of registered participants from 21 countries was nearly 300. During the three days of the conference 2 plenary, 16 invited, 54 oral reports and 184 posters were presented. 64 papers, based on these reports, are included in this volume of IOP Conference Series: Materials Science and Engineering. Additional information about FM&NT-2012 is available at its homepage http://www.fmnt.lu.lv. The Organizing Committee would like to thank all the speakers, contributors, session chairs, referees and other involved staff for their efforts in making the FM&NT-2012 successful. The

Case VILA Clothes : Unelmasta toteutukseen

OpenAIRE

Vidgren, Petri; Virtanen, Suvi

2007-01-01

Työn tarkoituksena oli perehtyä franchising-toimintaan käytännön kokemuksen kautta. Näiden kokemusten kautta tutkittiin franchising-teoriaa suhteessa käytännön esimerkkiin. Työ on jatkossa hyödyksi toimeksiantajalle perustaessaan uusia franchising-liikkeitä. Työn toimeksiantajana toimi Stylehunter Oy Teoriaosassa tuotiin esille franchising-toiminnan eri muodot. Osiossa käsiteltiin myös franchisingterminologiaa, franchising-yrittäjyyden mahdollisuuksia ja riskejä, sopimuksia, koulutusjärjestel...

The Utility of Handheld Programmable Calculators in Aircraft Life Cycle Cost Estimation.

Science.gov (United States)

1982-09-01

YtX 95* 96 GTO 10 97.LBL 1 1 AFTERBURNER TURBOJET 98 "FMIL" 99 XEQ 02 100 STO 37 101 .96 102 YtX 103 64 68 104 * 105 " FMA ’-" 106 XEO 0l 107 RCL 37...3500 RU N AF 750=3,819 .126.892 RUN EN LR .9000 RU N FIIIL? 11,000.0000 RUN BPP ? 1.0000 R LIN FMAX? 19,000.0000 RUN PU 1000=1,29 4,040.200 RUN N

A Double Blind, Randomized Study of Safety and Efficacy of OnabotulinumtoxinA (OnaBoNT A) versus Oral Oxybutynin in SCI Patients with NDO (11 09 10 04)

Science.gov (United States)

2017-10-01

receive 2 identically appearing syringes pre-filled with approximately 10 mL each of reconstituted study medication (200 U of ONAboNT-A in 20ml of...Oxy ER -SCI NDO Page 26 of 58 March 15, 2017 The data will be stored with Dr. Chancellor in a locked office. Urine will only be identified by...placed into a minus 80 freezer in the locked urology research laboratory with restricted access to the Research Institute. To ensure rigorous HIPPA

Using nestling plasma to assess long-term spatial and temporal concentrations of organochlorine compounds in bald eagles within Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota, USA

Science.gov (United States)

H. Tyler Pittman; William W. Bowerman; Leland H. Grim; Teryl G. Grubb; William C. Bridges; Michael R. Wierda

2015-01-01

The bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) population at Voyageurs National Park (VNP) provides an opportunity to assess long-term temporal and spatial trends of persistent environmental contaminants. Nestling bald eagle plasma samples collected from 1997 to 2010 were analyzed for polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine pesticides. Trends of total PCBs,...

Targeting Neurotrophins to Specific Populations of Neurons: NGF, BDNF, and NT-3 and Their Relevance for Treatment of Spinal Cord Injury

Science.gov (United States)

Keefe, Kathleen M.; Sheikh, Imran S.; Smith, George M.

2017-01-01

Neurotrophins are a family of proteins that regulate neuronal survival, synaptic function, and neurotransmitter release, and elicit the plasticity and growth of axons within the adult central and peripheral nervous system. Since the 1950s, these factors have been extensively studied in traumatic injury models. Here we review several members of the classical family of neurotrophins, the receptors they bind to, and their contribution to axonal regeneration and sprouting of sensory and motor pathways after spinal cord injury (SCI). We focus on nerve growth factor (NGF), brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and neurotrophin-3 (NT-3), and their effects on populations of neurons within diverse spinal tracts. Understanding the cellular targets of neurotrophins and the responsiveness of specific neuronal populations will allow for the most efficient treatment strategies in the injured spinal cord. PMID:28273811

Targeting Neurotrophins to Specific Populations of Neurons: NGF, BDNF, and NT-3 and Their Relevance for Treatment of Spinal Cord Injury.

Science.gov (United States)

Keefe, Kathleen M; Sheikh, Imran S; Smith, George M

2017-03-03

Neurotrophins are a family of proteins that regulate neuronal survival, synaptic function, and neurotransmitter release, and elicit the plasticity and growth of axons within the adult central and peripheral nervous system. Since the 1950s, these factors have been extensively studied in traumatic injury models. Here we review several members of the classical family of neurotrophins, the receptors they bind to, and their contribution to axonal regeneration and sprouting of sensory and motor pathways after spinal cord injury (SCI). We focus on nerve growth factor (NGF), brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and neurotrophin-3 (NT-3), and their effects on populations of neurons within diverse spinal tracts. Understanding the cellular targets of neurotrophins and the responsiveness of specific neuronal populations will allow for the most efficient treatment strategies in the injured spinal cord.

Tervetuloa röntgenosastolle Varkauteen : Röntgenhoitajaopiskelijoiden perehdytysopas

OpenAIRE

Koivunen, Sanna; Mäkelä, Laura

2013-01-01

Opinnäytetyönä tuotettiin röntgenhoitajaopiskelijoille perehdytysmateriaali Varkauden sairaalan röntgenosastolle. Työn tarkoituksena oli tehdä käytännön harjoitteluun tuleville röntgenhoitajaopiskelijoille perehdytysopas ja tutkimushuonekohtaiset perehdytyslomakkeet. Tavoitteena oli auttaa röntgenhoitajaopiskelijoita perehtymään työyksikköön ja kehittää käytännön harjoittelua. Perehdyttämismateriaalin ansiosta osastolla työskentelevä henkilökunta ja opiskelijat saavat yhteiset toimintata...

"Äiti, sä oot niin paras äiti" : - Ihmeelliset vuodet - ryhmän vaikutus vanhemmuustaitoihin

OpenAIRE

Pylkkönen, Taru

2011-01-01

”Äiti, sä oot niin paras äiti”: Ihmeelliset vuodet – ryhmän vaikutus vanhempien vanhem-muustaitoihin Vuosi 2011 Sivumäärä 51+ 12 Opinnäytetyön tarkoituksena oli selvittää miten Ihmeelliset vuodet koulussa – projektin yhteydessä toiminut vanhemmuusryhmä vaikutti siihen osallistuvien vanhempien vanhemmuustaitoihin. Ihmeelliset vuodet – ohjelman vanhemmuusryhmät ovat käytöshäiriöisten lasten vanhemmille suunnattuja perheinterventioita, joissa lasten käytökseen pyr...

50 CFR 17.41 - Special rules-birds.

Science.gov (United States)

2010-10-01

... 50 Wildlife and Fisheries 2 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Special rules-birds. 17.41 Section 17.41 Wildlife and Fisheries UNITED STATES FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR (CONTINUED... rules—birds. (a) Bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) wherever listed as threatened under § 17.11(h...

Food habits of Bald Eagles breeding in the Arizona desert

Science.gov (United States)

Teryl G. Grubb

1995-01-01

Of 1814 foraging attempts, prey captures, or nest deliveries by Bald Eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) in 14 Arizona breeding areas during 1983-1985, 1471 observations were identifiable to at least class: fish (76%), mammal (18%), bird (4%), and reptile/amphibian (2%). Forty-five species were recorded: catfish (Ictalurus punctatus, Pylodictis olivaris), suckers (...

Measuring the critical current in superconducting samples made of NT-50 under pulse irradiation by high-energy particles

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Vasilev, P.G.; Vladimirova, N.M.; Volkov, V.I.; Goncharov, I.N.; Zajtsev, L.N.; Zel'dich, B.D.; Ivanov, V.I.; Kleshchenko, E.D.; Khvostov, V.B.

1981-01-01

The results of tests of superconducting samples of an uninsulated wire of the 0.5 mm diameter, containing 1045 superconducting filaments of the 10 μm diameter made of NT-50 superconductor in a copper matrix, are given. The upper part of the sample (''closed'') is placed between two glass-cloth-base laminate plates of the 50 mm length, and the lower part (''open'') of the 45 mm length is immerged into liquid helium. The sample is located perpendicular to the magnetic field of a superconducting solenoid and it is irradiated by charged particle beams at the energy of several GeV. The measurement results of permissible energy release in the sample depending on subcriticality (I/Isub(c) where I is an operating current through the sample, and Isub(c) is a critical current for lack of the beam) and the particle flux density, as well as of the maximum permissible fluence depending on subcriticality. In case of the ''closed'' sample irradiated by short pulses (approximately 1 ms) for I/Isub(c) [ru

Dicty_cDB: VSD614 [Dicty_cDB

Lifescience Database Archive (English)

Full Text Available agvgd mvmatvkkgkpelrkkvctglvvrqrkhwkrkdgvyiyfednagvmcnpkgevkgnilgp vakecsdlwpkvatnagtiv*INTHKVKTXXKK--- ---V...kpelrkkvctglvvrqrkhwkrkdgvyiyfednagvmcnpkgevkgnilgp vakecsdlwpkvatnagtiv*INTHKVKTXXKK--- ---yt*imskaqavgsnyr

Targeting Neurotrophins to Specific Populations of Neurons: NGF, BDNF, and NT-3 and Their Relevance for Treatment of Spinal Cord Injury

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Kathleen M. Keefe

2017-03-01

Full Text Available Neurotrophins are a family of proteins that regulate neuronal survival, synaptic function, and neurotransmitter release, and elicit the plasticity and growth of axons within the adult central and peripheral nervous system. Since the 1950s, these factors have been extensively studied in traumatic injury models. Here we review several members of the classical family of neurotrophins, the receptors they bind to, and their contribution to axonal regeneration and sprouting of sensory and motor pathways after spinal cord injury (SCI. We focus on nerve growth factor (NGF, brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF, and neurotrophin-3 (NT-3, and their effects on populations of neurons within diverse spinal tracts. Understanding the cellular targets of neurotrophins and the responsiveness of specific neuronal populations will allow for the most efficient treatment strategies in the injured spinal cord.

The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, species-based legal ...

African Journals Online (AJOL)

The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act of 1940 bestows legal protection on two North American eagle species in the United States of America. The Act was originally aimed at the legal protection of only one species: the Bald Eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus, the national symbol of the USA. Later the Act was amended to ...

Lipid Replacement Therapy Functional Food Formulation with NT Factor for Reducing Weight, Girth, Body Mass, Appetite and Fatigue While Improving Blood Lipid Profiles

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Rita R. Ellithorpe

2012-01-01

Full Text Available Background: Lipid Replacement Therapy using NT Factor® plus kidney bean alpha-amylase inhibitor (Healthy Curb® was used in a two month weight loss clinical trial to reduce weight and improve fatigue without changing easting or exercise patterns and without use of drugs, stimulants or herbs. Objectives: To determine the effects of an all-natural functional food, NT Factor® plus alpha-amylase inhibitor (Healthy Curb®, on weight loss, body girth, body mass and index, basal metabolic rate, appetite, carvings for sweets and fatigue as well as blood lipid profiles during a 2-month open label clinical trial without food restrictions or increases in physical activity.Methods: Thirty subjects (Mean Age = 56.8 ± 1.8; 24 females and 6 males used the functional food containing NT Factor® (500 mg and alpha-amylase inhibitor (500 mg 30 min before each meal in tablet form. Participants were told to eat and exercise normally. Weight, waist and hip measurements were taken weekly. Appetite and sweet cravings were assessed weekly by standard methods. Fatigue was determined using the Piper Fatigue Scale. Blood samples were taken prior to and at the end of the trial for lipid and chemical analyses. Results: Sixty-three percent of the participants lost an average of 6.11 ± 0.28 pounds (2.77 ± 0.12 Kg (p<0.001 along with average reductions of 2.51 ± 0.05 inches (6.4 ± 0.13 cm (p<0.0001 and 1.5 ± 0.04 inches (3.8 ± 0.10 cm (p<0.0001 from waist and hip circumferences, respectively. The entire Functional Foods in Health and Disease 2012, 2(1:11-24 group lost an average of 3.63 ± 0.13 pounds (1.65 ± 0.11 Kg (p<0.001 with average reductions of 1.59 ± 0.03 inches (4.04 ± 0.06 cm (p<0.0001 and 1.13 ± 0.02 inch (2.87 ± 0.05 cm (p<0.0001 from waist and hip circumferences, respectively. Weight loss and body measurement decreases were gradual, consistent and significant, along with reductions in body mass index (BMI and basal metabolic rate (BMR measurements

Using nestling feathers to assess spatial and temporal concentrations of mercury in bald eagles at Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota, USA

Science.gov (United States)

H. T. Pittman; W. W. Bowerman; L. H. Grim; Teryl Grubb; W. C. Bridges

2011-01-01

Bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) have been utilized as a biosentinel of aquatic ecosystem health in the Great Lakes Region since the early 1960s. Bald eagle populations have been monitored at Voyageurs National Park (VNP), Minnesota, since 1973. For the past 20 years, researchers have collected feathers from nestling bald eagles to assess their dietary exposure...

Constructing bald eagle nests with natural materials

Science.gov (United States)

T. G. Grubb

1995-01-01

A technique for using natural materials to build artificial nests for bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) and other raptors is detailed. Properly constructed nests are as permanently secured to the nest tree or cliff substrate as any eagle-built nest or human-made platform. Construction normally requires about three hours and at least two people. This technique is...

Reality-tv leikkaajan silmin

OpenAIRE

Hietaniemi, Tommi

2012-01-01

Opinnäytetyössäni tutkin 2000-luvulla television ohjelmatarjonnan vallannutta realitya, myös tosi-tv:ksi kutsuttua ohjelmagenreä leikkaajan näkökulmasta. Käytännön esimerkkeinä ja laajan aiheen rajaajana käytän leikkaamiani televisiosarjoja Iceblock, Linnan tähdet sekä Supermarjo ja tytöt. Miten leikkaajan työnkuva erottuu erityyppisissä projekteissa ja erikokoisissa työryhmissä? Tai sisällöllisesti, mitkä seikat leikkaajan on hyvä ottaa huomioon realitya rakentaessa? In my thesis I a...

Production of vanillin by metabolically engineered Escherichia coli.

Science.gov (United States)

Yoon, Sang-Hwal; Li, Cui; Kim, Ju-Eun; Lee, Sook-Hee; Yoon, Ji-Young; Choi, Myung-Suk; Seo, Weon-Taek; Yang, Jae-Kyung; Kim, Jae-Yeon; Kim, Seon-Won

2005-11-01

E. coli was metabolically engineered to produce vanillin by expression of the fcs and ech genes from Amycolatopsis sp. encoding feruloyl-CoA synthetase and enoyl-CoA hydratase/aldolase, respectively. Vanillin production was optimized by leaky expression of the genes, under the IPTG-inducible trc promoter, in complex 2YT medium. Supplementation with glucose, fructose, galactose, arabinose or glycerol severely decreased vanillin production. The highest vanillin production of 1.1 g l(-1) was obtained with cultivation for 48 h in 2YT medium with 0.2% (w/v) ferulate, without IPTG and no supplementation of carbon sources.

Liikkuva kuva ja ääni digitaalisessa sarjakuvassa : säilyttäen sarjakuvamainen pysähtynyt hetki

OpenAIRE

Veijalainen, Roni

2013-01-01

Tarkastelen digitaalisuuden tuomia mahdollisuuksia elävöittää sarjakuvaa, sekä käyn läpi sarjakuvan ominaispiirteitä. Keskityn nimenomaan pohtimaan vaihtoehtoehtoja elävöittää digitaalista sarjakuvaa liikkuvilla elementeillä ja äänellä. Haluan löytää vaihtoehtoja käyttää näitä tehosteita siten, että tunne pysähtyneestä hetkestä säilyisi. Tarkastelen myös internetin avulla löytämiäni erilaisia digitaalisia sarjakuvia, joissa on käytetty digitaalisuuden mahdollistamia tehosteita. Tulen miet...

VAS-diagnostiikkatestereiden käyttö ajoneuvojen huolto- ja korjaustöissä

OpenAIRE

Pilvi, Juha

2014-01-01

Tämän insinöörityön aiheena on Volkswagen-konsernissa käytössä olevat VAS- diagnostiikkatesterit. Työssä tarkastellaan VAS-diagnostiikkatestereiden käyttöä ajoneuvojen huolto- ja korjaustoiminnassa. Pääpaino tulee olemaan päivittäisen korjaamotyöskentelyn kannalta olennaisimmissa toiminnoissa ja ominaisuuksissa. Työssä perehdytään myös diagnostiikkatestereiden historiaan ja ohjelmistojen tulevaisuuden näkymiin. Loppuosassa kuvataan kaksi käytännön vianhakua käyttäen VAS5051B- diagnostiikk...

Keskihurun tilan uudelleenkäynnistäminen

OpenAIRE

Leiviskä, Jaakko

2014-01-01

Tämän opinnäytetyön tarkoituksena oli tutkia Keskihurun maatilan, eli kotitilani uudelleenkäynnistämisen toteutuksen kannattavuutta ja pellonkäyttövaihtoehtoja. Tilan päätuotantosuunnaksi on kaavailtu mansikanviljelyä. Tämän osalta työssä tutkittiin viljelyn toteuttamisvaihtoehtoja, viljelykierron järjestämistä sekä välikasvien viljelyä. Toinen päätarkoitus oli löytää mansikanviljelyn ulkopuolelle jääville pelloille taloudellisesti ja työajankäytön kannalta järkevin vaihtoehto. Työn tavoi...

Full simulation study of the top Yukawa coupling at the ILC at $\\sqrt{s}$ = 1 TeV

CERN Document Server

Price, Tony; Strube, Jan; Tanabe, Tomohiko

2015-01-01

We present a study of the expected precision for measurement of the top Yukawa coupling, yt, in e+e- collisions at a center-of-mass energy of 1 TeV and assuming a beam polarization of P (e-, e+) = (-0.8,+0.2). Independent analyses of ttH final states containing at least six hadronic jets are performed, based on detailed simulations of SiD and ILD, the two candidate detector concepts for the ILC. We estimate that a statistical precision of yt of 4% can be obtained with an integrated luminosity of 1 $\\mathrm{ab}^{-1}$.

Millaisia TVT-taitoja on valmistuvilla aineenopettajilla

OpenAIRE

Kolu, Mika

2012-01-01

Tässä pro gradu -tutkielmassa tutkitaan, millaisia TVT-taitoja on Jyväskylän yliopistosta valmistuvilla aineenopettajilla. Lisäksi selvitetään millainen merkitys TVT:lla on yhteiskunnassa ja opetuskäytössä yleisesti. Toisessa luvussa kerrotaan miten Opetushallitus ja -ministeriö on määritellyt TVT:n tavoitetilan yhteiskunnassa, ja sen hyödyntämisen opetuksessa. Samalla käydään läpi eri kuntien käytänteitä TVT:n käyttöönotossa. Kolmannessa luvussa selvitetään millaisia opettajien TVT-taitoja o...

Hevostalouden pesuvesien laatu ja soveltuvat puhdistusmenetelmät

OpenAIRE

Loisa, Leena

2010-01-01

Hevostalous on Suomessa muuttunut merkittävästi viimeisten vuosikymmenien aikana. Hevosten käyttö on muuttunut työhevoskäytöstä urheilu- ja vapaa-ajankäytöksi ja uusia hevosharrastusmuotoja kehitetään jatkuvasti. Näin ollen hevostallien lukumäärä ja myös niiden tuottamat jätevesimäärät ovat jatkuvassa kasvussa. Vuoden 2004 alussa voimaan tullut Valtioneuvoston asetus 542/2003 talousjätevesien käsittelystä vesihuoltolaitosten viemäriverkostojen ulkopuolisilla alueilla edellyttää saostuskaivokä...

Kitaristin vasen käsi

OpenAIRE

Lindsberg, Maija

2015-01-01

Tässä opinnäytetyössä käsitellään klassisen kitaristin vasemman käden tekniikkaa. Aluksi esitellään kitaransoiton perusteita ja tekniikoita, jonka jälkeen annetaan kappalekohtaisia esimerkkejä niiden käytöstä. Tutkimuksen alla olevat kappaleet on valittu sen perusteella, että soitan ne B-tutkinto-ohjelmassani. Kiinnostuksen kohteena ovat erityisesti kohdat, jotka itse olen kokenut hankaliksi tai mielenkiintoisiksi vasemman käden osalta. Pyrin löytämään ratkaisuja ongelmiin ja lisäämään tietoi...

Riparian Raptors on USACE Projects: Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus)

National Research Council Canada - National Science Library

Mitchell, Wilma

2000-01-01

...) reservoir operations. For management purposes, these raptors are considered riparian generalists because they inhabit the riparian zones surrounding streams and lakes of Corps projects but may seasonally use adjacent...

Towards evidence-based emergency medicine: best BETs from the Manchester Royal Infirmary. BET 4: Prognostic value of B-type natriuretic peptides (BNP and NT-proBNP) in community-acquired pneumonia.

Science.gov (United States)

Hodgson, David; Nee, Patrick; Sultan, Laith

2012-10-01

A short cut review was carried out to establish the prognostic value of B-type natriuretic peptides (BNP and NT-proBNP) in community acquired pneumonia (CAP). Three cohort studies were directly relevant to the question. The author, date and country of publication, patient group studied, study type, relevant outcomes, results and study weaknesses of these papers are tabulated. The clinical bottom line was that B-type natriuretic peptides have prognostic value in CAP but further prospective studies were needed to assess their application in clinical practice.

Türkiye Türkçesindeki Alıntı Sözcüklerde Görülen Ses Olayları Üzerine Bir İnceleme An Analysis On Phonetic Occurrences Which Of Loaned Words In Turkey Turkish

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Veysel İbrahim KARACA

2012-12-01

Full Text Available A society can not live without making contact with other communities. Every community must interact with each other except the non-primitive societies which have been isolated from the world. It is inevitable for languages of communities that have cultural,commercial and social connection not to effect one another.This interaction, taken place from upper culture to sub-culture,producer to consumer, provides the exchange of words through theloaned words. These loaned words as outcomes of communication andmodernity, exist more or less in every languages.Turkish is a language have an interaction with various languagesthrough its history. As in every language, socially, economically,diplomatically and culturally had an interaction, in Turksih also, thereare loaned words from the first written texts to today.In this study, we undertake phonetic occurrences of loaned wordsin Turkish. This study is an synchronic work, based on 10th edition ofTürkçe Sözlük (Türkish Dictionary published by Türk Dil Kurumu (TheInstitution of Turkish Language. The total loaned words which arebelonged to east languages (Arabic, Chines, Ermenian, Iranian,Georgian, Indian, Hebrew, Japanese, Malaysian, Mongolian, Russian,Sudgish, Tibetan and compose the scope of the study, is 8.991. Thedetermination of source of the loaned words are done based on theinformation in Türkçe Sözlük. Our study, limited geographically oneastern languages, is an analyze on %58.63 of total loaned words. Bir toplumun diğer toplumlarla herhangi bir ilişki kurmadan yaşaması mümkün değildir. Dünyadan izole olmuş ilkel toplumlar dışındaki her toplum birbiriyle etkileşimde bulunmak zorundadır. Siyasi, ticari, kültürel ve sosyal ilişkilerle birbirini tanıyan toplumların dillerinin de belli bir ölçüde birbirini etkilemesi kaçınılmazdır.Üst kültürden alt kültüre, üretenden tüketene doğru bir yol izleyen bu etkileşim alıntı sözcükler yoluyla sözcük alış veri

Expression of mRNAs for PPT, CGRP, NF-200, and MAP-2 in cocultures of dissociated DRG neurons and skeletal muscle cells in administration of NGF or NT-3

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Weiwei Zhang

2012-07-01

Full Text Available Both neurotrophins (NTs and target skeletal muscle (SKM cells are essential for the maintenance of the function of neurons and nerve-muscle communication. However, much less is known about the association of target SKM cells with distinct NTs on the expression of mRNAs for preprotachykinin (PPT, calcitonin-gene related peptide (CGRP, neurofilament 200 (NF-200, and microtubule associated protein 2 (MAP-2 in dorsal root ganglion (DRG sensory neurons. In the present study, a neuromuscular coculture model of dissociated dorsal root ganglion (DRG neurons and SKM cells was established. The morphology of DRG neurons and SKM cells in coculture was observed with an inverted phase contrast microscope. The effects of nerve growth factor (NGF or neurotrophin-3 (NT-3 on the expression of mRNAs for PPT, CGRP, NF-200, and MAP-2 was analyzed by real time-PCR assay. The morphology of DRG neuronal cell bodies and SKM cells in neuromuscular coculture at different conditions was similar. The neurons presented evidence of dense neurite outgrowth in the presence of distinct NTs in neuromuscular cocultures. NGF and NT-3 increased mRNA levels of PPT, CGRP, and NF-200, but not MAP-2, in neuromuscular cocultures. These results offer new clues towards a better understanding of the association of target SKM cells with distinct NTs on the expression of mRNAs for PPT, CGRP, NF-200 and MAP-2, and implicate the association of target SKM cells and NTs with DRG sensory neuronal phenotypes.

Virtuaalikuvat oppilaitosten käytössä

OpenAIRE

Jeskanen, Lauri

2011-01-01

Tämä opinnäytetyö käsittelee virtuaalikuvien, eli 360-asteisten panoraamojen, käyttöä oppilaitoksissa. Tärkeimpinä asioina on virtuaalikuvien sekä – kierrosten toiminnan selvittäminen sekä virtuaalikuvien tulevaisuuden käyttökohteiden arviointi. Tarkastelussa ovat myös virtuaalikuvien mahdollinen sisältö sekä käyttömediat. Opinnäytetyön tuloksena valmistui noin 40 virtuaalikuvaa kattava, toimeksiantajalle toimitettu, virtuaalikierros Tampereen ammattikorkeakoulun tiloista. Virtuaalikierro...

Ferromagnetic resonance relaxation processes in Zn2Yt

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mita, M.; Shimizu, H.

1975-01-01

Experimentally obtained linewidth in FMR of Zn 2 Y is analyzed numerically on the basis of two-magnon, three-magnon and four-magnon relaxation processes. In the analysis procedure of three-magnon linewidth, the effective exchange constants are determined to be D = 0.15 x 10 -9 Oe cm 2 and D = 9.3 x 10 -9 Oe cm 2 within and between the crystallographic planes. The two-magnon linewidth induced by surface imperfections is discussed in consideration of scattering due to multipole demagnetizations of the imperfections. The four-magnon linewidth is observed for the first time and analyzed successfully

Modelling of Multi Input Transfer Function for Rainfall Forecasting in Batu City

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Priska Arindya Purnama

2017-11-01

Full Text Available The aim of this research is to model and forecast the rainfall in Batu City using multi input transfer function model based on air temperature, humidity, wind speed and cloud. Transfer function model is a multivariate time series model which consists of an output series (Yt sequence expected to be effected by an input series (Xt and other inputs in a group called a noise series (Nt. Multi input transfer function model obtained is (b1,s1,r1 (b2,s2,r2 (b3,s3,r3 (b4,s4,r4(pn,qn = (0,0,0 (23,0,0 (1,2,0 (0,0,0 ([5,8],2 and shows that air temperature on t-day affects rainfall on t-day, rainfall on t-day is influenced by air humidity in the previous 23 days, rainfall on t-day is affected by wind speed in the previous day , and rainfall on day t is affected by clouds on day t. The results of rainfall forecasting in Batu City with multi input transfer function model can be said to be accurate, because it produces relatively small RMSE value. The value of RMSE data forecasting training is 7.7921 while forecasting data testing is 4.2184. Multi-input transfer function model is suitable for rainfall in Batu City.

Wintering bald eagle trends in northern Arizona, 1975-2000

Science.gov (United States)

Teryl G. Grubb

2003-01-01

Between 1975 and 2000, 4,525 sightings of wintering bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) were recorded at Mormon Lake in northern Arizona. Numbers of wintering eagles fluctuated little in the 20 years from 1975 through 1994 (5.5 ± 3.0 mean sightings per day). However, during the winters of 1995 through 1997 local record highs of 59 to 118 eagles...

Garrison Project - Lake Sakakawea Oil and Gas Management Plan, North Dakota

Science.gov (United States)

2012-11-01

origin and specification of the sand, gravel, or stone that will be used for road construction must be included in this section. No construction...Haliaeetus leucocephalus Bald eagle Lanius ludovicianus Loggerhead shrike Limosa fedoa Marbled godwit Melanerpes...materials, such as sand, gravel, stone , and soil. BLM will approve use of construction materials on ac- quired lands for use off the installation

CRM-järjestelmän käytettävyystutkimus

OpenAIRE

Paavilainen, Mikko

2015-01-01

Opinnäytetyön aiheena oli käytettävyys ja käytettävyystutkimus. Opinnäytetyö sisältää käytettävyyden perusteita ja käytettävyystestin suunnittelua, toteutusta ja tuloksia. Käytettävyystesti koskee CGI:n CRM-järjestelmän projektin luonti ja hallintatoimintoja. Nalli CRM–järjestelmä on yrityksellä käytössä oleva asiakkuuksienhallintajärjestelmä. Käytettävyystutkimuksen tavoitteena oli löytää käytettävyysongelmia ja kehittää ratkaisuja niiden korjaamiseksi. Käytettävyystestiin osallistui järjest...

Päihteitä käyttävä nainen ja raskaus : kirjallisuuskatsaus

OpenAIRE

Sainio, Marianna; Simula, Sonja

2017-01-01

Naisten päihteiden kulutus on kasvanut Suomessa viime vuosikymmeninä ja tästä johtuen myös raskaana olevien naisten päihteiden käyttö on ajankohtainen ongelma. Tämän opinnäytetyön tarkoituksena oli käsitellä päihteiden käytön vaikutuksia sikiöön ja vastasyntyneeseen lapseen. Tavoitteena oli tuoda esiin raskaana olevan päihteitä käyttävän naisen hoidollisia erityispiirteitä sekä nostaa esille raskaudenaikaisen päihteiden käytön riskejä. Opinnäytetyö toteutettiin kirjallisuuskatsauksena. Tu...

Musiikki muistisairaan vanhuksen hyvinvoinnin edistäjänä : Hoitonetti

OpenAIRE

Haapamäki, Tiina

2013-01-01

Iäkkäämpien ikäryhmien osuuden kasvaessa myös muistisairauksia sairastavien määrä moninkertaistuu. Muistisairaudet ovat isoin riskitekijä, joka johtaa iäkkään ihmisen pois kodistaan ympärivuorokautiseen hoitopaikkaan. Muistisairauksiin liittyvät käytösoireet heikentävät elämänlaatua ja lisäävät palvelujen tarvetta. Ne ovat myös merkittävin pitkäaikaishoidon alkamisen syy. Muistisairauksien aiheuttamia käytösoireita voidaan lievittää lääkehoidolla. Toisin kuin muistisairaan lääkehoitoon, musii...

Työskentely Norjassa : maassa työskennelleiden kokemuksia

OpenAIRE

Mäkäläinen, Teressa

2013-01-01

Tämän opinnäytetyön tarkoituksena oli antaa käytännönläheistä tietoa Norjaan muuttamisesta, työnhausta ja muista asuinmaan vaihdossa huomioon otettavista asioista, kuten verotuksesta ja sosiaaliturvasta, elinkustannuksista, asunnon hankinnasta ja käytännön elämästä. Opinnäytetyö on tarkoitettu avuksi kaikille Norjaan töihin lähteville tai sitä suunnitteleville. Tarkoituksena on tutustuttaa lukija Norjan työelämään ja maahanmuuttoa koskeviin säännöksiin, sekä auttaa Suomesta muuttamisen järjes...

Selvitys HR House Oy:n vuokratyöntekijöiden työtyytyväisyydestä

OpenAIRE

Kaskela, Leeni

2011-01-01

Opinnäytetyön tarkoituksena oli selvittää HR House Oy:n palveluksessa olevien vuokratyöntekijöiden työtyytyväisyyteen vaikuttavia asioita. Opinnäytetyö on laadullinen tutkielma, jossa käytän tutkimusmenetelmänä teemahaastattelua. Tutkimuskysymykseni selvittävät, mitkä asiat vaikuttavat työntekijöiden työ- tyytyväisyyteen ja mitä he kertovat työtyytyväisyyteen vaikuttavista tekijöistä. Toimeksianto opinnäytetyön tekemiseen on tullut HR House Oy Henkilöstöpalveluilta. Tavoitteena oli löytää kei...

Diversidad de arañas (Araneae, Araneomorphae en la selva de montaña: un caso de estudio en las Yungas Argentinas

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Rubio, Gonzalo D.

2015-12-01

Full Text Available The spider diversity from yungas vegetation in northwestern Argentina is studied, integrating two levels: local (α diversity, community structures and a projection at regional level of diversity (β diversity. Twenty six sites in Salta Province were sampled, representing different ambient/altitudinal strata of yungas sensu stricto (SP= pedemontane rainforest, SM= montane rainforest and BM= montane forest, yungas sensu lato (Cc-s= yungas central and southern sectors connectivity areas, YT= transitional yungas, and Chaco Serrano sites (ChS as contrast. The sampling was carried out seasonally for one year taking 10 samples of vegetation with G-Vac method. A total of 6412 spiders, 188 species and 34 families were obtained (only yungas. Theridiidae, Anyphaenidae and Linyphiidae were dominant. The highest richness was observed in Araneidae, Salticidae and Theridiidae. >em>Chibchea salta (Pholcidae, Dubiaranea msp111 (Linyphiidae and Mysmena msp110 (Mysmenidae were dominant species. Relevant differences in species composition and abundance highlighted two groups of environment (Cc-s+SP+YT+ChS vs. (SM+BM. Dictynidae, Oxyopidae and Philodromidae are associated with lower altitudinal floors (Cc-s, YT, ChS. The greatest species richness and diversity were recorded in SP and YT. The highest similarity was recorded in SM and BM; the major differences were observed in Cc-s and ChS compared with the other ambient, except with SP. Complementarity and similarity indices and coefficients revealed high β diversity in the region. Thus, it is suggested that besides reinforcing protection in transitional levels Yungas (the most disturbed and diverse habitats for spiders, conservation management in the area should be directed towards promoting natural spatial heterogeneity of Yungas, giving special emphasis to habitat mosaics that constitute each different stratum.Se estudia la diversidad de arañas de vegetación de las yungas del noroeste argentino, integrando dos

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and neurotrophin 3 (NT3) levels in post-mortem brain tissue from patients with depression compared to healthy individuals 

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Sheldrick, A; Camara, S; Ilieva, M

2017-01-01

The neurotrophic factors (NTF) hypothesis of depression was postulated nearly a decade ago and is nowadays widely acknowledged. Previous reports suggest that cerebral concentrations of NTF may be reduced in suicide victims who received minimal or no antidepressant pharmacotherapy. Recent evidence...... and nucleus caudatus) of 21 individuals - 7 patients of which 4 patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) and overall age 86.8±5 years who received antidepressant pharmacotherapy (selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors [SSRI]; tricyclic antidepressants [TCA]), 3 patients with MDD without antidepressant...... medication compared to MDD untreated patients and controls. Moreover, we detected a significant decrease of NT3 levels in the parietal cortex of patients suffering from MDD non-treated patients without treatment compared to healthy individuals. Although the limited statistical power due to the small sample...

Environmental Assessment: Implementation of the Tyndall Air Force Base Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan

Science.gov (United States)

2006-04-01

follows U.S. Highway 98. This ridge divides the Base into the Beach Dunes and Wave- Cut Bluffs physiographic region to the west and the Flatwoods Forest...wild petunia Ruellia noctiflora E Wet prairie BIRDS American oystercatcher Haematopus palliates SSC Shoreline Bald eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus...outdoor recreation activities, including boating, canoeing, fishing, fuel wood cutting , horseback riding, hunting, and trail walking. The Base has nine

Final Report Bald and Golden Eagle Territory Surveys for the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Fratanduono, M. L. [Lawrence Livermore National Lab. (LLNL), Livermore, CA (United States)

2014-11-25

Garcia and Associates (GANDA) was contracted by the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) to conduct surveys for bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) and golden eagles (Aquila chrysaetos) at Site 300 and in the surrounding area out to 10-miles. The survey effort was intended to document the boundaries of eagle territories by careful observation of eagle behavior from selected viewing locations throughout the study area.

Energy requirements for growth in the Yorkshire terrier.

Science.gov (United States)

Alexander, Janet E; Colyer, Alison; Morris, Penelope J

2017-01-01

The 2006 National Research Council (NRC) equation calculating puppy energy requirements does not account for reported breed differences in growth pattern. Energy requirements of toy breed puppies are unknown and it is unclear whether feeding guidelines should differ between breeds. Energy requirements of Yorkshire terrier (YT) puppies were observed over their first year of life and compared with those predicted by the NRC and those previously observed in large (Labrador retriever) and medium (miniature Schnauzer; MS) breed puppies. Twenty-two puppies (from eight litters) were offered complete and balanced diets to maintain ideal body condition score (BCS). Energy intake, body weight and BCS were recorded from 10 to 52 weeks of age. Every 12 weeks, health was monitored by veterinary examination, routine haematology and plasma biochemistry. Puppies remained clinically healthy with normal skeletal development throughout. After analysis by linear mixed models it was observed that the NRC equation overestimates YT energy requirements between 10 and 20 weeks of age by up to 324·3 (95 % CI 390·4, 258·2) kJ/kg 0·75 . Energy intake was lower ( P  < 0·05) in YT than Labradors until 29 weeks by up to 376·6 (95 % CI 477·4, 275·3) kJ/kg 0·75 and lower than MS between 16 and 25 weeks by up to 216·3 (95 % CI 313·0, 119·7) kJ/kg 0·75 ( P  < 0·05). Data indicate differences in toy, medium and large breed energy requirements for growth. The NRC equation for puppy energy requirements overestimated the requirements of this YT population, suggesting the need for breed-specific feeding guides for growth to avoid overfeeding.

Hoitajien kokemuksia Theraplay-ryhmäsovelluksesta lastenpsykiatrisessa hoitotyössä

OpenAIRE

Manninen, Niina; Ollikainen, Laura

2011-01-01

Tämän opinnäytetyön tarkoituksena oli selvittää hoitajien kokemuksia ja ajatuksia Theraplay-ryhmäsovelluksesta lastenpsykiatrisessa hoitotyössä sekä kartoittaa hoitajien mielipiteitä mahdollisesta tanssin ja musiikin käytöstä osana tätä sovellusta. Opinnäytetyön tehtävänä oli selvittää millaisia kokemuksia hoitajilla on Theraplay-ryhmäsovelluksesta, mitä ajatuksia mahdollinen musiikin ja tanssin käyttö osana Theraplay-ryhmäsovellusta herättää sekä mitä kehitettävää tämän sovelluksen käytössä ...

Derivation and validation of a simple clinical risk-model in heart failure based on 6 minute walk test performance and NT-proBNP status--do we need specificity for sex and beta-blockers?

Science.gov (United States)

Frankenstein, L; Goode, K; Ingle, L; Remppis, A; Schellberg, D; Nelles, M; Katus, H A; Clark, A L; Cleland, J G F; Zugck, C

2011-02-17

It is unclear whether risk prediction strategies in chronic heart failure (CHF) need to be specific for sex or beta-blockers. We examined this problem and developed and validated the consequent risk models based on 6-minute-walk-test and NT-proBNP. The derivation cohort comprised 636 German patients with systolic dysfunction. They were validated against 676 British patients with similar aetiology. ROC-curves for 1-year mortality identified cut-off values separately for specificity (none, sex, beta-blocker, both). Patients were grouped according to number of cut-offs met (group I/II/III - 0/1/2 cut-offs). Widest separation between groups was achieved with sex- and beta-blocker-specific cut offs. In the derivation population, 1-year mortality was 0%, 8%, 31% for group I, II and III, respectively. In the validation population, 1-year rates in the three risk groups were 2%, 7%, 14%, respectively, after application of the same cut-offs. Risk stratification for CHF should perhaps take sex and beta-blocker usage into account. We derived and independently validated relevant risk models based on 6-minute-walk-tests and NT-proBNP. Specifying sex and use of beta-blockers identified three distinct sub-groups with widely differing prognosis. In clinical practice, it may be appropriate to tailor the intensity of follow-up and/or the treatment strategy according to the risk-group. Copyright © 2009 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Production, secretion, and stability of human secreted alkaline phosphatase in tobacco NT1 cell suspension cultures.

Science.gov (United States)

Becerra-Arteaga, Alejandro; Mason, Hugh S; Shuler, Michael L

2006-01-01

Tobacco NT1 cell suspension cultures secreting active human secreted alkaline phosphatase (SEAP) were generated for the first time as a model system to study recombinant protein production, secretion, and stability in plant cell cultures. The SEAP gene encodes a secreted form of the human placental alkaline phosphatase (PLAP). During batch culture, the highest level of active SEAP in the culture medium (0.4 U/mL, corresponding to approximately 27 mg/L) was observed at the end of the exponential growth phase. Although the level of active SEAP decreased during the stationary phase, the activity loss did not appear to be due to SEAP degradation (based on Western blots) but due to SEAP denaturation. The protein-stabilizing agents polyvinylpirrolidone (PVP) and bacitracin were added extracellularly to test for their ability to reduce the loss of SEAP activity during the stationary phase. Bacitracin (100 mg/L) was the most effective treatment at sustaining activity levels for up to 17 days post-subculture. Commercially available human placental alkaline phosphatase (PLAP) was used to probe the mechanism of SEAP deactivation. Experiments with PLAP in sterile and conditioned medium corroborated the denaturation of SEAP by factors generated by cell growth and not due to simple proteolysis. We also show for the first time that the factors promoting activity loss are heat labile at 95 degrees C but not at 70 degrees C, and they are not inactivated after a 5 day incubation period under normal culture conditions (27 degrees C). In addition, there were no significant changes in pH or redox potential when comparing sterile and cell-free conditioned medium during PLAP incubation, indicating that these factors were unimportant.

The 1996 Survey of Threatened and Endangered Species on Army Lands: A Summary Report.

Science.gov (United States)

1997-12-01

TRISTIS) TOPEKA SHINER C FIS 1 ONCORHYNCHUS CLARKI STOMIAS GREENBACK CUTTHROAT TROUT T FIS 1 OREOMYSTIS (=LOXOPS) MANA CREEPER, HAWAII E BIR 2...PEREGRINE FORSCOM FT CARSON HALIAEETUS EAGLE, BALD T BIR B LEUCOCEPHALUS FORSCOM FT CARSON ONCORHYNCHUS CLARKI GREENBACK CUTTHROAT T FIS 0 STOMIAS TROUT...ONCORHYNCHUS CLARKI GREENBACK CUTTHROAT TROUT T FIS NR STOMIAS FORSCOM FT CARSON SPIRANTHES DILUVIALIS UTE LADIES’-TRESSES T PLA NR FORSCOM -FT CARSON STRIX

A k-out-of-n reliability system with an unreliable server and phase type repairs and services: the (N,T policy

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Srinivas R. Chakravarthy

2001-01-01

Full Text Available In this paper we study a k-out-of-n reliability system in which a single unreliable server maintains n identical components. The reliability system is studied under the (N,T policy. An idle server takes a vacation for a random amount of time T and then attends to any failed component waiting in line upon completion of the vacation. The vacationing server is recalled instantaneously upon the failure of the Nth component. The failure times of the components are assumed to follow an exponential distribution. The server is subject to failure with failure times exponentially distributed. Repair times of the component, fixing times of the server, and vacationing times of the server are assumed to be of phase type. Using matrix-analytic methods we perform steady state analysis of this model. Time spent by a failed component in service, total time in the repair facility, vacation time of the server, non-vacation time of the server, and time until failure of the system are all shown to be of phase type. Several performance measures are evaluated. Illustrative numerical examples are presented.

Expression, crystallization and preliminary X-ray data analysis of NT-Als9-2, a fungal adhesin from Candida albicans

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Salgado, Paula S.; Yan, Robert; Rowan, Fiona; Cota, Ernesto

2011-01-01

Details of the expression and crystallization of the N-terminal fragment of Als9-2, an adhesin from the human commensal/pathogenic fungus C. albicans, are reported. Preliminary analysis of the collected X-ray data is also discussed. Candida albicans is a common human fungal commensal that can also cause a range of infections from skin/mucosal ‘thrush’ to severe systemic candidiasis. Adherence to host cells is one of the key determinants of Candida pathogenesis. The Als family of surface proteins has been implicated in adhesion of C. albicans, yet limited information has been published on the structure and mechanism of these fungal adhesins. The N-terminal region of these proteins has been shown to possess adhesive properties, making it a possible target for new therapeutic strategies. Recombinant NT-Als9-2 from C. albicans (residues 18–329) was overexpressed in Escherichia coli, purified and crystallized. Diffraction data were collected to 2.0 Å resolution. The crystals belonged to space group P2 1 2 1 2 1 , with unit-cell parameters a = 34.73, b = 68.71, c = 120.03 Å, α = β = γ = 90° and one molecule in the asymmetric unit. Platinum-derivatized crystals belonged to the same space group, with similar unit-cell parameters, although they were not completely isomorphous

Oscillation of two-dimensional linear second-order differential systems

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kwong, M.K.; Kaper, H.G.

1985-01-01

This article is concerned with the oscillatory behavior at infinity of the solution y: [a, ∞) → R 2 of a system of two second-order differential equations, y''(t) + Q(t) y(t) = 0, t epsilon[a, ∞); Q is a continuous matrix-valued function on [a, ∞) whose values are real symmetric matrices of order 2. It is shown that the solution is oscillatory at infinity if the largest eigenvalue of the matrix integral/sub a//sup t/ Q(s) ds tends to infinity as t → ∞. This proves a conjecture of D. Hinton and R.T. Lewis for the two-dimensional case. Furthermore, it is shown that considerably weaker forms of the condition still suffice for oscillatory behavior at infinity. 7 references

Physiological Plausibility and Boundary Conditions of Theories of Risk Sensitivity

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Marchiori, Davide; Elqayam, Shira

2012-01-01

dilatation, which in turn positively correlates with a risk aversion behavior. They hypothesize that participants’ attention is increased in decision problems involving losses, which trigger an innate prudent behavior in situations entailing danger and/or hazard. Interestingly, Y&T find that the nature...... of attention is not selective, i.e., when losses are present, participants are shown to devote more attention to the task as a whole rather than to the single negative outcomes, in contrast to Prospect Theory's loss aversion....... and physiological underpinnings of one of the central topics in judgment and decision-making (JDM) research – choice behavior in decisions from experience. Y&T successfully contributes to this goal by demonstrating a novel effect that losses increase experimental participants’ arousal as measured by pupil...

Urkintalaki

OpenAIRE

Kivioja, Elina

2010-01-01

Tämän opinnäytetyön tavoite on antaa kattava kuva siitä, millä keinoilla työnantaja voi lukea työntekijöidensä sähköpostiviestejä, valvoa Internetin ja intranetin käyttöä työpaikoilla, ja näin estää yrityssalaisuuksiensa oikeudettomat paljastumiset ja tietoverkon väärinkäytökset. Tietoverkon väärinkäytösten osalta työni perustuu pääasiassa sähköisen viestinnän tietosuojalain säännöksiin ja lain esitöihin. Työnantajan oikeuksien osalta hakea esille ja lukea työntekijöiden sähköpostiviestejä pe...

Physical characteristics of the binary PHA 2003 YT1

Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database

Larson, S. M.; Grauer, A. D.; Beshore, E.; Christensen, E.; Pravec, Petr; Kaasalainen, M.; Nolan, M. C.; Howell, E. S.; Hine, A. A.; Galád, Adrián; Gajdoš, Š.; Kornoš, L.; Világi, J.

2004-01-01

Roč. 36, č. 4 (2004), s. 1139 ISSN 0002-7537 R&D Projects: GA AV ČR IAA3003204 Institutional research plan: CEZ:AV0Z1003909 Keywords : binary * asteroids * photometry Subject RIV: BN - Astronomy, Celestial Mechanics, Astrophysics

Reliability of the non-contact tono-pachymeter Tonopachy NT-530P in healthy eyes.

Science.gov (United States)

García-Resúa, Carlos; Pena-Verdeal, Hugo; Miñones, Mercedes; Giraldez, M Jesus; Yebra-Pimentel, Eva

2013-05-01

Non-contact Tonopachy NT-530P (Nidek Co., LTD) provides intraocular pressure (IOP) and central corneal thickness (CCT) measurements. This study assesses the reliability and repeatability of its IOP measurements in young healthy adult subjects. IOP was determined in the right eye of 64 healthy patients using Tonopachy followed by the Canon TX-10 non-contact and Goldmann applanation (GAT) tonometers. Tonopachy IOP measurements were corrected (Tonopachy-C) or not (Tonopachy-NC) by the instrument for central corneal thickness. Central corneal thickness measurements provided by Tonopachy were also used to correlate (Pearson's coefficient) central corneal thickness with the GAT and Canon TX-10 IOPs. Repeatability of Tonopachy and GAT was assessed in the right eye of 31 subjects in two separate sessions one week apart. Differences between pairs of instruments and between sessions were determined using Bland-Altman plots. The coefficient of repeatability was calculated as the 95% limits of agreement (LoA) of differences between the two sessions. Tonopachy-NC, Tonopachy-C, Canon TX-10 and the Goldmann tonometers showed a mean IOP of 14.62, 15.64, 15.02 and 14.68 mmHg, respectively. Tonopachy-NC and Canon TX-10 readings did not differ significantly from the Goldmann (p > 0.05), with close agreement with both tonometers (GAT versus Tonopachy-NC: -3.84 to 3.96 mmHg; Goldmann versus Canon TX-10: -4.75 to 4.07 mmHg). Tonopachy-C readings differed significantly from Goldmann (mean difference -0.96 mmHg, p = 0.001, LoA from -5.09 to 3.17). Coefficients of repeatability were ± 3.70, ± 3.14 and ± 3.33 mmHg for GAT, Tonopachy-NC and Tonopachy-C, respectively. Central corneal thickness measured with Tonopachy was 530.42 ± 34.96 μm. There was a significant correlation between central corneal thickness and IOP for all tonometers except Tonopachy-C. Reasonable agreement was observed between the Goldmann and Tonopachy. This instrument provides reliable and repeatable IOP

Testing the role of contaminants in depressing avian numbers Evaluando el rol de los contaminantes sobre la disminución del número de aves

OpenAIRE

WILLIAM H. KARASOV; MICHAEL W. MEYER

2000-01-01

Environmental contaminants are ubiquitous and so are often key suspects in cases of lagging wildlife populations. How do we test hypotheses about cause-effect linkages between contaminants and wildlife health? We present three case studies in which different approaches were used to test hypotheses about effects of contaminants on wildlife. The cases involve the possible impacts of (1) polychlorinated biphenyl on Lake Superior bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus); (2) dioxin on osprey (Pandi...

Implementation of special engineering safety features for severe accident management. New SAMG approach

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Grigorov, D.; Borisov, E.; Mancheva, K.

2012-01-01

Conclusions: As a result of the thermohydraulic analysis conducted the following main conclusions are formulated: The operator actions for accident management are effective and allow reaching conditions for application of the new engineering safety features for SAMG; The new engineering safety features application is effective and prevents severe core damage for Scenario 1. For the Scenario 2 they prevents degradation and relocation of the reactor core for a long period of time (in the analysis this period is 10 h, but the unit could be kept in safe condition for longer time which is not specifically analysed).The maximal fuel cladding temperature for Scenario 1 reaches 558 o C. This low fuel cladding temperature gradient is achieved by applying a complex of operator actions which prevent any core damage. If the additional discharge line with DN 100 mm from the PRZ is not opened then a severe core damage occurs; The maximal fuel cladding temperature for Scenario 2 reaches 1307 o C. One of the possibilities for keeping this temperature below 1200 o C is to mount second line (the first SFP line is between YT12S03.S04) from the SFP to the TQ22 pipeline which is connected to YT14B01 hydroaccumulator line, between the check valves YT14S03.S04

Factors Affecting Elevated Arsenic and Methyl Mercury Concentrations in Small Shield Lakes Surrounding Gold Mines near the Yellowknife, NT, (Canada Region.

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Adam James Houben

Full Text Available Gold mines in the Yellowknife, NT, region--in particular, the Giant Mine--operated from 1949-99, releasing 237,000 tonnes of waste arsenic trioxide (As2O3 dust, among other compounds, from gold ore extraction and roasting processes. For the first time, we show the geospatial distribution of roaster-derived emissions of several chemical species beyond the mine property on otherwise undisturbed taiga shield lakes within a 25 km radius of the mine, 11 years after its closing. Additionally, we demonstrate that underlying bedrock is not a significant source for the elevated concentrations in overlying surface waters. Aquatic arsenic (As concentrations are well above guidelines for drinking water (10 μg/L and protection for aquatic life (5 μg/L, ranging up to 136 μg/L in lakes within 4 km from the mine, to 2.0 μg/L in lakes 24 km away. High conversion ratios of methyl mercury were shown in lakes near the roaster stack as well, with MeHg concentrations reaching 44% of total mercury. The risk of elevated exposures by these metals is significant, as many lakes used for recreation and fishing near the City of Yellowknife are within this radius of elevated As and methyl Hg concentrations.

Von Gierke disease

Science.gov (United States)

... sugar test Genetic testing Lactic acid blood test Triglyceride level Uric acid blood test If a person ... 45. Kishnani PS, Chen Y-T. Defects in metabolism of carbohydrates. In: Kliegman RM, Stanton BF, St. ...

The multiplicity dependence of inclusive pt spectra from p-p collisions at sqrt s = 200 GeV

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Adams, J.; Aggarwal, M.M.; Ahammed, Z.; Amonett, J.; Anderson, B.D.; Anderson, M.; Arkhipkin, D.; Averichev, G.S.; Bai, Y.; Balewski, J.; Barannikova, O.; Barnby, L.S.; Baudot, J.; Bekele, S.; Belaga, V.V.; Bellingeri-Laurikainen, A.; Bellwied, R.; Benedosso, F.; Bhardwaj, S.; Bhasin, A.; Bhati, A.K.; Bichsel, H.; Bielcik, J.; Bielcikova, J.; Bland, L.C.; Blyth, S.-L.; Bonner, B.E.; Botje, M.; Bouchet, J.; Brandin, A.V.; Bravar, A.; Bystersky, M.; Cadman, R.V.; Cai, X.Z.; Caines, H.; Calderonde la Barca Sanchez, M.; Castillo, J.; Catu, O.; Cebra, D.; Chajecki, Z.; Chaloupka, P.; Chattopadhyay, S.; Chen, H.F.; Chen, J.H.; Cheng, J.; Cherney, M.; Chikanian, A.; Christie, W.; Coffin, J.P.; Cormier, T.M.; Cosentino, M.R.; Cramer, J.G.; Crawford, H.J.; Das, D.; Das, S.; Daugherity, M.; de Moura, M.M.; Dedovich, T.G.; DePhillips, M.; Derevschikov, A.A.; Didenko, L.; Dietel, T.; Djawotho, P.; Dogra, S.M.; Dong, W.J.; Dong, X.; Draper, J.E.; Du, F.; Dunin, V.B.; Dunlop, J.C.; Dutta Mazumdar, M.R.; Eckardt, V.; Edwards, W.R.; Efimov, L.G.; Emelianov, V.; Engelage, J.; Eppley, G.; Erazmus, B.; Estienne, M.; Fachini, P.; Fatemi, R.; Fedorisin, J.; Filimonov, K.; Filip, P.; Finch, E.; Fine, V.; Fisyak, Y.; Fu, J.; Gagliardi, C.A.; Gaillard, L.; Ganti, M.S.; Ghazikhanian, V.; Ghosh, P.; Gonzalez, J.S.; Gorbunov, Y.G.; Gos, H.; Grebenyuk, O.; Grosnick, D.; Guertin, S.M.; Guimaraes, K.S.F.F.; Guo, Y.; Gupta, N.; Gutierrez, T.D.; Haag, B.; Hallman, T.J.; Hamed, A.; Harris, J.W.; He, W.; Heinz, M.; Henry, T.W.; Hepplemann, S.; Hippolyte, B.; Hirsch, A.; Hjort, E.; Hoffman, A.M.; Hoffmann, G.W.; Horner, M.J.; Huang, H.Z.; Huang, S.L.; Hughes, E.W.; Humanic, T.J.; Igo, G.; Jacobs, P.; Jacobs, W.W.; Jakl, P.; Jia, F.; Jiang, H.; Jones, P.G.; Judd, E.G.; Kabana, S.; Kang, K.; Kapitan, J.; Kaplan, M.; Keane, D.; Kechechyan, A.; Khodyrev, V.Yu.; Kim, B.C.; Kiryluk, J.; Kisiel, A.; Kislov, E.M.; Klein, S.R.; Kocoloski, A.; Koetke, D.D.; Kollegger, T.

2006-01-01

We report measurements of transverse momentum pt spectra for ten event multiplicity classes of p-p collisions at sqrt s = 200$ GeV. By analyzing the multiplicity dependence we find that the spectrum shape can be decomposed into a part with amplitude proportional to multiplicity and described by a Levy distribution on transverse mass mt, and a part with amplitude proportional to multiplicity squared and described by a gaussian distribution on transverse rapidity yt. The functional forms of the two parts are nearly independent of event multiplicity. The two parts can be identified with the soft and hard components of a two-component model of p-p collisions. This analysis then provides the first isolation of the hard component of the pt spectrum as a distribution of simple form on yt

Linear Pursuit Differential Game under Phase Constraint on the State of Evader

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Askar Rakhmanov

2016-01-01

Full Text Available We consider a linear pursuit differential game of one pursuer and one evader. Controls of the pursuer and evader are subjected to integral and geometric constraints, respectively. In addition, phase constraint is imposed on the state of evader, whereas pursuer moves throughout the space. We say that pursuit is completed, if inclusion y(t1-x(t1∈M is satisfied at some t1>0, where x(t and y(t are states of pursuer and evader, respectively, and M is terminal set. Conditions of completion of pursuit in the game from all initial points of players are obtained. Strategy of the pursuer is constructed so that the phase vector of the pursuer first is brought to a given set, and then pursuit is completed.

Quantum influence in the criticality of the spin- {1}/{2} anisotropic Heisenberg model

Science.gov (United States)

Ricardo de Sousa, J.; Araújo, Ijanílio G.

1999-07-01

We study the spin- {1}/{2} anisotropic Heisenberg antiferromagnetic model using the effective field renormalization group (EFRG) approach. The EFRG method is illustrated by employing approximations in which clusters with one ( N'=1) and two ( N=2) spins are used. The dependence of the critical temperature Tc (ferromagnetic-F case) and TN (antiferromagnetic-AF case) and thermal critical exponent, Yt, are obtained as a function of anisotropy parameter ( Δ) on a simple cubic lattice. We find that, in our results, TN is higher than Tc for the quantum anisotropic Heisenberg limit and TN= Tc for the Ising and quantum XY limits. We have also shown that the thermal critical exponent Yt for the isotropic Heisenberg model shows a small dependence on the type of interaction (F or AF) due to finite size effects.

Electron microscopical studies of the common bile duct in reindeer

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Timo Rahko

1990-08-01

Full Text Available In a previous publication the authors have described some ultrastructural characteristics of granulated cells in the common bile duct of the reindeer. On the basis of the same material, electron microscopic observations on other tissue elements of bile duct wall are now reported. The surface and glandular epithelium were composed of tall columnar epithelial cells with villous structures on the luminal surfaces. The parietal cytoplasmic membranes of epithelial cells were equipped with intercellular desmosomes while intraepithelial globule leucocytes did not form any junctional complex with other cells. Apical cytoplasmic areas of superficial epithelial cells showed electron-dense small bodies possibly consisting of mucinous substances. The goblet and deep glandular cells, on the other hand, contained numerous large mucin granules with less electron-dense matrices. It appears that their secretions are more abundant than those in superficial epithelial cells which obviously are absorptive as their main function. The nuclei and other cytoplasmic organelles showed profiles similar to those in epithelial cells generally. The lumen of the bile ducts was usually empty or contained fine-granular or amorphous material. An unusual feature was the presence of parts of globule leucocytes or even almost whole cells occurring freely in ductal secretions.Elektronimikroskooppinen tutkimus yhteisen sappikäytävän rakenteesta porolla.Abstract in Finnish / Yhteenveto: Aikaisemmassa julkaisussa tekijät kuvasivat poron yhteisen sappikäytävän (ductus hepaticus communis seinämän jyväsellisten solujen hienorakennetta. Tässä artikkelissa selostetaan saman aineiston perusteella (6 tervettä teurasporoa elektronimikroskooppisia havaintoja sappikäytäväseinämän muista kudosrakenteista. Sappikäytäväseinämän pinta- ja rauhasepiteeli koostuu korkeista epiteelisoluista. Pinnallisia epiteelisoluja kattavat säännölliset mikrovillukset, ja niillä on vain v

Genetics Home Reference: isobutyryl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency

Science.gov (United States)

... An Y, Weavil SD, Chaing SH, Bali D, McDonald MT, Kishnani PS, Chen YT, Millington DS. Rare ... 10 All Bulletins Features What is direct-to-consumer genetic testing? What are genome editing and CRISPR- ...

Genetics Home Reference: short-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency

Science.gov (United States)

... An Y, Weavil SD, Chaing SH, Bali D, McDonald MT, Kishnani PS, Chen YT, Millington DS. Rare ... 10 All Bulletins Features What is direct-to-consumer genetic testing? What are genome editing and CRISPR- ...

Relation of Renal Function with Left Ventricular Systolic Function and NT-proBNP Level and Its Prognostic Implication in Heart Failure with Preserved versus Reduced Ejection Fraction: an analysis from the Korean Heart Failure (KorHF) Registry.

Science.gov (United States)

Park, Chan Soon; Park, Jin Joo; Oh, Il-Young; Yoon, Chang-Hwan; Choi, Dong-Ju; Park, Hyun-Ah; Kang, Seok-Min; Yoo, Byung-Su; Jeon, Eun-Seok; Kim, Jae-Joong; Cho, Myeong-Chan; Chae, Shung Chull; Ryu, Kyu-Hyung; Oh, Byung-Hee

2017-09-01

The relationship between ejection fraction (EF), N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) levels and renal function is unknown as stratified by heart failure (HF) type. We investigated their relation and the prognostic value of renal function in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) vs. reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). NT-proBNP, glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and EF were obtained in 1,932 acute heart failure (AHF) patients. HFrEF was defined as EFrenal dysfunction as GFRrenal dysfunction: 30≤GFRrenal dysfunction: GFRrenal dysfunction did not differ between HFpEF and HFrEF (49% vs. 52%, p=0.210). Patients with renal dysfunction had higher 12-month mortality in both HFpEF (7.9% vs. 15.2%, log-rank p=0.008) and HFrEF (8.6% vs. 16.8%, log-rank prenal dysfunction was an independent predictor of 12-month mortality (hazard ratio [HR], 2.08; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.40-3.11). When stratified according to EF: the prognostic value of severe renal dysfunction was attenuated in HFpEF patients (HR, 1.46; 95% CI, 0.66-3.21) contrary to HFrEF patients (HR, 2.43; 95% CI, 1.52-3.89). In AHF patients, the prevalence of renal dysfunction did not differ between HFpEF and HFrEF patients. However, the prognostic value of renal dysfunction was attenuated in HFpEF patients.

Glaciotectonic deformation and reinterpretation of the Worth Point stratigraphic sequence: Banks Island, NT, Canada

Science.gov (United States)

Vaughan, Jessica M.; England, John H.; Evans, David J. A.

2014-05-01

Hill-hole pairs, comprising an ice-pushed hill and associated source depression, cluster in a belt along the west coast of Banks Island, NT. Ongoing coastal erosion at Worth Point, southwest Banks Island, has exposed a section (6 km long and ˜30 m high) through an ice-pushed hill that was transported ˜ 2 km from a corresponding source depression to the southeast. The exposed stratigraphic sequence is polydeformed and comprises folded and faulted rafts of Early Cretaceous and Late Tertiary bedrock, a prominent organic raft, Quaternary glacial sediments, and buried glacial ice. Three distinct structural domains can be identified within the stratigraphic sequence that represent proximal to distal deformation in an ice-marginal setting. Complex thrust sequences, interfering fold-sets, brecciated bedrock and widespread shear structures superimposed on this ice-marginally deformed sequence record subsequent deformation in a subglacial shear zone. Analysis of cross-cutting relationships within the stratigraphic sequence combined with OSL dating indicate that the Worth Point hill-hole pair was deformed during two separate glaciotectonic events. Firstly, ice sheet advance constructed the hill-hole pair and glaciotectonized the strata ice-marginally, producing a proximal to distal deformation sequence. A glacioisostatically forced marine transgression resulted in extensive reworking of the strata and the deposition of a glaciomarine diamict. A readvance during this initial stage redeformed the strata in a subglacial shear zone, overprinting complex deformation structures and depositing a glaciotectonite ˜20 m thick. Outwash channels that incise the subglacially deformed strata record a deglacial marine regression, whereas aggradation of glaciofluvial sand and gravel infilling the channels record a subsequent marine transgression. Secondly, a later, largely non-erosive ice margin overrode Worth Point, deforming only the most surficial units in the section and depositing a

Galactosemia

Science.gov (United States)

... and Rector's The Kidney. 10th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2016:chap 45. Broomfield A, Brain C, Grunewald S. ... Neurology in Clinical Practice. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2016:chap 91. Kishnani PS, Chen Y-T. ...

Yoga for High‑Risk Pregnancy: A Randomized Controlled Trial

African Journals Online (AJOL)

assess yoga therapy (YT) module on maternal stress level in high risk pregnancy. .... i.e., 35 years, (6) BMI > 30, (7) family history (sister, ... neurosis, addictions, etc. ... 68 patients were allocated to two treatment groups: Yoga (n= 30),.

Determining the Critical Point of a Sigmoidal Curve via its Fourier Transform

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bilge, Ayse Humeyra; Ozdemir, Yunus

2016-01-01

A sigmoidal curve y(t) is a monotone increasing curve such that all derivatives vanish at infinity. Let t_n be the point where the nth derivative of y(t) reaches its global extremum. In the previous work on sol-gel transition modelled by the Susceptible-Infected- Recovered (SIR) system, we observed that the sequence { t_n } seemed to converge to a point that agrees qualitatively with the location of the gel point [2]. In the present work we outline a proof that for sigmoidal curves satisfying fairly general assumptions on their Fourier transform, the sequence { t_n } is convergent and we call it “the critical point of the sigmoidal curve”. In the context of phase transitions, the limit point is interpreted as a junction point of two different regimes where all derivatives undergo their highest rate of change. (paper)

Ospreys Use Bald Eagle Nests in Chesapeake Bay Area

OpenAIRE

Therres, Glenn D.; Chandler, Sheri K.

1993-01-01

Ospreys (Pandion haliaetus) and Bald Eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) share similar breeding habitat in the Chesapeake Bay area and elsewhere. The nests of these species are similar in size and appearance. Ospreys typically build large stick nests in dead trees or on man-made structures (C.J. Henny et al. 1974, Chesapeake Sci. 15:125-133; A.F. Poole 1989, Ospreys: a natural and unnatural history, Cambridge Univ. Press, NY), while Bald Eagles usually build larger nests in live trees (P.B. Woo...

Fitness Level and Not Aging per se, Determines the Oxygen Uptake Kinetics Response

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Mitchell A. George

2018-03-01

Full Text Available Although aging has been associated to slower V˙O2 kinetics, some evidence indicates that fitness status and not aging per se might modulate this response. The main goal of this study was to examine the V˙O2, deoxygenated hemoglobin+myoglobin (deoxy-[Hb+Mb] kinetics, and the NIRS-derived vascular reperfusion responses in older compared to young men of different training levels (i.e., inactive, recreationally active, and endurance trained. Ten young inactive [YI; 26 ± 5 yrs.; peak V˙O2 (V˙O2peak, 2.96 ± 0.55 L·min−1], 10 young recreationally active (YR; 26 ± 6 yrs.; 3.92 ± 0.33 L·min−1, 10 young endurance trained (YT; 30 ± 4 yrs.; 4.42 ± 0.32 L·min−1, 7 older inactive (OI; 69 ± 4 yrs.; 2.50 ± 0.31 L·min−1, 10 older recreationally active (OR; 69 ± 5 yrs.; 2.71 ± 0.42 L·min−1, and 10 older endurance trained (OT; 66 ± 3 yrs.; 3.20 ± 0.35 L·min−1 men completed transitions of moderate intensity cycling exercise (MODS to determine V˙O2 and deoxy-[Hb+Mb] kinetics, and the deoxy-[Hb+Mb]/V˙O2 ratio. The time constant of V˙O2 (τV˙O2 was greater in YI (38.8 ± 10.4 s and OI (44.1 ± 10.8 s compared with YR (26.8 ± 7.5 s and OR (26.6 ± 6.5 s, as well as compared to YT (14.8 ± 3.4 s, and OT (17.7 ± 2.7 s (p < 0.05. τV˙O2 was greater in YR and OR compared with YT and OT (p < 0.05. The deoxy-[Hb+Mb]/V˙O2 ratio was greater in YI (1.23 ± 0.05 and OI (1.29 ± 0.08 compared with YR (1.11 ± 0.03 and OR (1.13 ± 0.06, as well as compared to YT (1.01 ± 0.03, and OT (1.06 ± 0.03 (p < 0.05. Similarly, the deoxy-[Hb+Mb]/ V˙O2 ratio was greater in YR and OR compared with YT and OT (p < 0.05. There was a main effect of training (p = 0.033, whereby inactive (p = 0.018 and recreationally active men (p = 0.031 had significantly poorer vascular reperfusion than endurance trained men regardless of age. This study demonstrated not only that age-related slowing of V˙O2 kinetics can be eliminated in endurance trained individuals

Rapid Identification of Key Pathogens in Wound Infection by Molecular Means

Science.gov (United States)

2006-01-01

3 3 5 4 7 T I NT NT NT NT - - - Prevotella denticola ATCC 33185 1 NT NT NT NT - - - Prevotella intermedia ATCC 2561 IT I NT NT NT NT - - Prevotella...TaqMan and SYBR Green for Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia , tetQ gene and total bacteria...detection of Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans and Porphyromonas gingivalis. J. Clin.Microbiol. 41, 863-866. (2003). 20. Higgins ,D. et al. CLUSTAL W

Ruotsinkielisten alkeistason suomenoppijoiden paikallissijojen käytöstä

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Tuija Määttä

2011-10-01

Full Text Available This article presents the results of research on how Swedish-speaking students learning Finnish as a foreign language at the beginners’ level use the Finnish local cases in their writing. The research is based on the Swedish subcorpus of a larger electronic corpus entitled the International Corpus of Learner Finnish. At the time the survey work was conducted, the subcorpus contained 43 496 words. To find all occurrences of the six local cases, the corpus was analysed using a concord-programme as a tool. By inputting the case suffixes, e.g. the inessive suffixes ssa/sa and ssä/sä, as keywords, the programme found both the correct local case forms and the wrong ones.

Measurements of HOx radicals and the total OH reactivity (kOH) in the planetary boundary layer over southern Finland aboard the Zeppelin NT airship during the PEGASOS field campaign.

Science.gov (United States)

Broch, Sebastian; Gomm, Sebastian; Fuchs, Hendrik; Hofzumahaus, Andreas; Holland, Frank; Bachner, Mathias; Bohn, Birger; Häseler, Rolf; Jäger, Julia; Kaiser, Jennifer; Keutsch, Frank; Li, Xin; Lohse, Insa; Rohrer, Franz; Thayer, Mitchell; Tillmann, Ralf; Wegener, Robert; Mentel, Thomas F.; Kiendler-Scharr, Astrid; Wahner, Andreas

2014-05-01

The concentration of hydroxyl (OH) and hydroperoxy (HO2) radicals (also named HOx) and the total OH reactivity were measured over southern Finland and during transfer flights over Germany, Denmark and Sweden aboard the Zeppelin NT airship within the framework of the Pan-European Gas-AeroSOls-climate interaction Study (PEGASOS) field campaign in 2013. The measurements were performed with a remotely controlled Laser Induced Fluorescence (LIF) instrument which was installed on top of the airship. Together with a comprehensive set of trace gas (O3, CO, NO, NO2, HCHO, HONO, VOCs), photolysis frequencies and aerosol measurements as well as the measurement of meteorological parameters, these data provide the possibility to test the current understanding of the chemical processes in the planetary boundary layer (PBL) over different landscapes and in different chemical regimes. The unique flight performance of the Zeppelin NT allowed us to measure transects at a constant altitude as well as vertical profiles within the range of 80 m to 1000 m above ground. The transect flights show changes in the HOx distribution and kOH while crossing different chemical regimes on the way from Friedrichshafen, Germany to Jämijärvi, Finland over Germany, Denmark and Sweden. Vertical profile flights over the boreal forest close to Jämijärvi and Hyytiälä (both Finland) gave the opportunity to investigate the layering of the PBL and with that the vertical distribution of HOx and kOH with a high spatial and temporal resolution. Gradients in the HOx concentration and kOH were measured between the different layers during the early morning hours. The maximum radical concentrations found during the campaign were 1.0 x 107 cm-3 for OH and 1.0 x 109 cm-3 for HO2. The total OH reactivity measured in Finland was much lower than what was reported before in the literature from ground based measurements and ranged from 1 s-1 to 6 s-1. Acknowledgement: PEGASOS project funded by the European

UNA MIRADA MÁS “POSITIVA” A LA SALUD OCUPACIONAL DESDE LA PSICOLOGÍA ORGANIZACIONAL POSITIVA EN TIEMPOS DE CRISIS: APORTACIONES DESDE EL EQUIPO DE INVESTIGACIÓN WoNT

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Marisa Salanova

2014-01-01

Full Text Available El objetivo de este trabajo es presentar una síntesis de las principales aportaciones prácticas basadas en la evidencia científica que el equipo WoNT de la Universitat Jaume I ha llevado a cabo en materia de Psicología de la Salud Ocupacional y Psicología Organizacional Positiva en contextos de crisis. En concreto, se presenta la metodología RED (Recursos-Experiencias-Demandas para la evaluación de riesgos y daños psicosociales, y estados emocionales positivos. Además, se muestra una metodología heurística basada en la Psicología Organizacional Positiva, que apuesta por la evaluación e intervención en Organizaciones Saludables y Resilientes (HEROs (HEalthy & Resilient Organizations como una estrategia para ofrecer resultados más cercanos a la realidad laboral y social de la crisis.

Identification of Bacillus anthracis by Using Monoclonal Antibody to Cell Wall Galactose-N-Acetylglucosamine Polysaccharide

Science.gov (United States)

1990-02-01

Bacillus circulans ATCC 4513 b - - NR NT NT NT NT Bacillus coagulans ATCC 7050 b - - NR NT NT NT NT Bacillus eugilitis B-61 f - - NR NT NT NT NT...American Society for Microbiology W Identification of Bacillus anthracis by-U-sing Monoclonal Antibody CC to Cell Wall Galactose-N-Acetylglucosamine...Received 22 June 1989/Accepted 31 October 1989 ’ Guanidine extracts of crude Bacillus anthracis cell wall were used to vaccinate BALB/c mice and to

Recenzija. Monografija apie filosofijos ir literatūros giminystę

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Tomas Kačerauskas

2011-04-01

Full Text Available Prieš keletą metų neoficialiame pokalbyje J. Baranova prasitarė, kad nėra didesnio malonumo už rašymą. Tiesą sakant, buvau sužavėtas ir priblokštas ne tik dėl šios ištaros asimetrijos R. Barthes’o minčiai apie skaitymo malonumą (net erotinį. Visai kitaip apie rašymą atsiliepia A. Šliogeris (kurio filosofi jos apmąstymui J. Baranova pelnytai skiria daug dėmesio: jis mieliau nerašytų nei rašytų. Tokiais atvejais prisimenu M. Bulgakovą, kuris „tempiąs save už plaukų prie rašomojo stalo“. Rašymas daug kam siejasi su disciplina, prievarta savęs atžvilgiu, geriausiu atveju – kasdieniu įpročiu.

The cointegrated vector autoregressive model with general deterministic terms

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Johansen, Søren; Nielsen, Morten Ørregaard

2017-01-01

In the cointegrated vector autoregression (CVAR) literature, deterministic terms have until now been analyzed on a case-by-case, or as-needed basis. We give a comprehensive unified treatment of deterministic terms in the additive model X(t)=Z(t) Y(t), where Z(t) belongs to a large class...... of deterministic regressors and Y(t) is a zero-mean CVAR. We suggest an extended model that can be estimated by reduced rank regression and give a condition for when the additive and extended models are asymptotically equivalent, as well as an algorithm for deriving the additive model parameters from the extended...... model parameters. We derive asymptotic properties of the maximum likelihood estimators and discuss tests for rank and tests on the deterministic terms. In particular, we give conditions under which the estimators are asymptotically (mixed) Gaussian, such that associated tests are X 2 -distributed....

The cointegrated vector autoregressive model with general deterministic terms

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Johansen, Søren; Nielsen, Morten Ørregaard

In the cointegrated vector autoregression (CVAR) literature, deterministic terms have until now been analyzed on a case-by-case, or as-needed basis. We give a comprehensive unified treatment of deterministic terms in the additive model X(t)= Z(t) + Y(t), where Z(t) belongs to a large class...... of deterministic regressors and Y(t) is a zero-mean CVAR. We suggest an extended model that can be estimated by reduced rank regression and give a condition for when the additive and extended models are asymptotically equivalent, as well as an algorithm for deriving the additive model parameters from the extended...... model parameters. We derive asymptotic properties of the maximum likelihood estimators and discuss tests for rank and tests on the deterministic terms. In particular, we give conditions under which the estimators are asymptotically (mixed) Gaussian, such that associated tests are khi squared distributed....

Suspected lead toxicosis in a bald eagle

Science.gov (United States)

Jacobson, E.; Carpenter, J.W.; Novilla, M.

1977-01-01

An immature bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) was submitted to the University of Maryland, College Park, for clinical examination. The bird was thin, had green watery feces, and was unable to maintain itself in upright posture. Following radiography, the bird went into respiratory distress and died. Numerous lead shot were recovered from the gizzard, and chemical analysis of liver and kidney tissue revealed 22.9 and 11.3 ppm lead, respectively. The clinical signs, necropsy findings, and chemical analysis of the eagle were compatible with lead toxicosis.

Processing and microstructure characterisation of oxide dispersion strengthened Fe–14Cr–0.4Ti–0.25Y2O3 ferritic steels fabricated by spark plasma sintering

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zhang, Hongtao; Huang, Yina; Ning, Huanpo; Williams, Ceri A.; London, Andrew J.; Dawson, Karl; Hong, Zuliang; Gorley, Michael J.; Grovenor, Chris R.M.; Tatlock, Gordon J.; Roberts, Steve G.; Reece, Michael J.; Yan, Haixue; Grant, Patrick S.

2015-01-01

Highlights: • Nanostructured ODS steels were successfully produced by SPS. • Presence of Y 2 Ti 2 O 7 nanoclusters was confirmed by synchrotron XRD and microscopy. • The chemistry of nanoclusters tested by ATP indicated they are Y–Ti–O oxides. - Abstract: Ferritic steels strengthened with Ti–Y–O nanoclusters are leading candidates for fission and fusion reactor components. A Fe–14Cr–0.4Ti + 0.25Y 2 O 3 (14YT) alloy was fabricated by mechanical alloying and subsequently consolidated by spark plasma sintering (SPS). The densification of the 14YT alloys significantly improved with an increase in the sintering temperature. Scanning electron microscopy and electron backscatter diffraction revealed that 14YT SPS-sintered at 1150 °C under 50 MPa for 5 min had a high density (99.6%), a random grain orientation and a bimodal grain size distribution (<500 nm and 1–20 μm). Synchrotron X-ray diffraction patterns showed bcc ferrite, Y 2 Ti 2 O 7 , FeO, and chromium carbides, while transmission electron microscopy and atom probe tomography showed uniformly dispersed Y 2 Ti 2 O 7 nanoclusters of <5 nm diameter and number density of 1.04 × 10 23 m −3 . Due to the very much shorter consolidation times and lower pressures used in SPS compared with the more usual hot isostatic pressing routes, SPS is shown to be a cost-effective technique for oxide dispersion strengthened (ODS) alloy manufacturing with microstructural features consistent with the best-performing ODS alloys

Optimal investment for enhancing social concern about biodiversity conservation: a dynamic approach.

Science.gov (United States)

Lee, Joung Hun; Iwasa, Yoh

2012-11-01

To maintain biodiversity conservation areas, we need to invest in activities, such as monitoring the condition of the ecosystem, preventing illegal exploitation, and removing harmful alien species. These require a constant supply of resources, the level of which is determined by the concern of the society about biodiversity conservation. In this paper, we study the optimal fraction of the resources to invest in activities for enhancing the social concern y(t) by environmental education, museum displays, publications, and media exposure. We search for the strategy that maximizes the time-integral of the quality of the conservation area x(t) with temporal discounting. Analyses based on dynamic programming and Pontryagin's maximum principle show that the optimal control consists of two phases: (1) in the first phase, the social concern level approaches to the final optimal value y(∗), (2) in the second phase, resources are allocated to both activities, and the social concern level is kept constant y(t) = y(∗). If the social concern starts from a low initial level, the optimal path includes a period in which the quality of the conservation area declines temporarily, because all the resources are invested to enhance the social concern. When the support rate increases with the quality of the conservation area itself x(t) as well as with the level of social concern y(t), both variables may increase simultaneously in the second phase. We discuss the implication of the results to good management of biodiversity conservation areas. 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved

Thermal evolution of the Kramer radiating star

Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

as pressure anisotropy, shear, heat flow and bulk viscosity. The study of .... where m(v) is the Newtonian mass of the star as measured by an observer at infinity. The junction .... Adiabatic index ( = (dp/dρ)) as a function of y(t). of collapse ...

Forenkling av tekniske systemer

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Førland-Larsen, Arne; Bramslev, Katharina; Halderaker, Ingrid

De fleste moderne kontorbygg har omfattende tekniske installasjoner. Mange byggeiere opplever at dagens kompliserte tekniske anlegg ikke fungerer som de skal. De ender med å få reklamasjoner, høyt energiforbruk og klager på inneklima. Kan en kraftig forenkling av ventilasjons-, oppvarmings- og...

Macroscopical and microscopical studies of the common bile duct in reindeer (Rangifer tarandus tarandus L

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Timo Rahko

1990-08-01

Full Text Available The histological structure and secretory function of the common bile duct (ductus hepaticus communis has not been previously described in reindeer. Macroscopical studies were thus performed in 25 reindeer to reveal the morphology and topography of the ductus hepaticus communis and adjoining organs. Histologic structure of the common bile duct was investigated in 20 animals. Our studies showed that the ductus hepaticus communis and pancreaticus join about 2 cm before the duodenal opening to form the common duct. The common bile duct is an elastic tube about 3 to 5 cm long and 2 to 3 mm thick partly surrounded by fat and pancreatic tissues. The wall of the duct, being about 1 mm thick by light microscopy, consisted of folded mucosa surrounded by connective tissue fibres and a serosal layer. Distally, also muscular bands were seen. In some areas separate leucocytes and even lymphatic nodules were present. Surprisingly pancreatic acini occurred in certain areas of the wall, even in close contact to subepithelial tissues. Mucosal epithelium consisted of surface and glandular epithelial cells with mucous secretion. Numerous intraepithelial globule leucocytes were identifiable within the lamina epithelialis.Tutkimus yhteisen sappikäytävän rakenteesta porolla.Abstract in Finnish / Yhteenveto: Yhteisen sappikäytävän (ductus hepaticus communis histologista rakennetta ja eritystoimintaa ei ole aikaisemmin kuvattu porolla. Makroskooppisia tutkimuksia suoritettiin 25 porolla yhteisen sappikäytävän rakenteen ja topografian selvittämiseksi. Seinämän histologinen rakenne selvitettiin 20 porolla. Tutkimukset osoittivat, että porolla ductus hepaticus communis ja ductus pancreaticus yhtyvät noin 2 cm ennen ohutsuolta muodostaakseen yhteisen tiehyeen. Ductus hepaticus communis on noin 3-5 cm pitkä ja 2-3 mm:n läpimittainen käytävä. Se on elastinen ja osit-tain rasva- ja haimakudoksen ympäröimä. Seinämä on mikroskooppisesti noin 1 mm paksu

pyXSIM: Synthetic X-ray observations generator

Science.gov (United States)

ZuHone, John A.; Hallman, Eric. J.

2016-08-01

pyXSIM simulates X-ray observations from astrophysical sources. X-rays probe the high-energy universe, from hot galaxy clusters to compact objects such as neutron stars and black holes and many interesting sources in between. pyXSIM generates synthetic X-ray observations of these sources from a wide variety of models, whether from grid-based simulation codes such as FLASH (ascl:1010.082), Enzo (ascl:1010.072), and Athena (ascl:1010.014), to particle-based codes such as Gadget (ascl:0003.001) and AREPO, and even from datasets that have been created “by hand”, such as from NumPy arrays. pyXSIM can also manipulate the synthetic observations it produces in various ways and export the simulated X-ray events to other software packages to simulate the end products of specific X-ray observatories. pyXSIM is an implementation of the PHOX (ascl:1112.004) algorithm and was initially the photon_simulator analysis module in yt (ascl:1011.022); it is dependent on yt.

Theoretical analysis of non-Gaussian heterogeneity effects on subsurface flow and transport

Science.gov (United States)

Riva, Monica; Guadagnini, Alberto; Neuman, Shlomo P.

2017-04-01

Much of the stochastic groundwater literature is devoted to the analysis of flow and transport in Gaussian or multi-Gaussian log hydraulic conductivity (or transmissivity) fields, Y(x)=ln\\func K(x) (x being a position vector), characterized by one or (less frequently) a multiplicity of spatial correlation scales. Yet Y and many other variables and their (spatial or temporal) increments, ΔY, are known to be generally non-Gaussian. One common manifestation of non-Gaussianity is that whereas frequency distributions of Y often exhibit mild peaks and light tails, those of increments ΔY are generally symmetric with peaks that grow sharper, and tails that become heavier, as separation scale or lag between pairs of Y values decreases. A statistical model that captures these disparate, scale-dependent distributions of Y and ΔY in a unified and consistent manner has been recently proposed by us. This new "generalized sub-Gaussian (GSG)" model has the form Y(x)=U(x)G(x) where G(x) is (generally, but not necessarily) a multiscale Gaussian random field and U(x) is a nonnegative subordinator independent of G. The purpose of this paper is to explore analytically, in an elementary manner, lead-order effects that non-Gaussian heterogeneity described by the GSG model have on the stochastic description of flow and transport. Recognizing that perturbation expansion of hydraulic conductivity K=eY diverges when Y is sub-Gaussian, we render the expansion convergent by truncating Y's domain of definition. We then demonstrate theoretically and illustrate by way of numerical examples that, as the domain of truncation expands, (a) the variance of truncated Y (denoted by Yt) approaches that of Y and (b) the pdf (and thereby moments) of Yt increments approach those of Y increments and, as a consequence, the variogram of Yt approaches that of Y. This in turn guarantees that perturbing Kt=etY to second order in σYt (the standard deviation of Yt) yields results which approach those we obtain

Differential regulation of axon outgrowth and reinnervation by neurotrophin-3 and neurotrophin-4 in the hippocampal formation.

Science.gov (United States)

Hechler, Daniel; Boato, Francesco; Nitsch, Robert; Hendrix, Sven

2010-08-01

In this study, we investigated the hypothesis whether neurotrophins have a differential influence on neurite growth from the entorhinal cortex depending on the presence or absence of hippocampal target tissue. We investigated organotypic brain slices derived from the entorhinal-hippocampal system to analyze the effects of endogenous and recombinant neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) and neurotrophin-4 (NT-4) on neurite outgrowth and reinnervation. In the reinnervation assay, entorhinal cortex explants of transgenic mice expressing enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) were co-cultured with wild-type hippocampi under the influence of recombinant NT-3 and NT-4 (500 ng/ml). Both recombinant NT-3 and NT-4 significantly increased the growth of EGFP+ nerve fibers into the target tissue. Consistently, reinnervation of the hippocampi of NT-4(-/-) and NT-3(+/-)NT-4(-/-) mice was substantially reduced. In contrast, the outgrowth assay did not exhibit reduction in axon outgrowth of NT-4(-/-) or NT-3(+/-)NT-4(-/-) cortex explants, while the application of recombinant NT-3 (500 ng/ml) induced a significant increase in the neurite extension of cortex explants. Recombinant NT-4 had no effect. In summary, only recombinant NT-3 stimulates axon outgrowth from cortex explants, while both endogenous and recombinant NT-3 and NT-4 synergistically promote reinnervation of the denervated hippocampus. These results suggest that endogenous and exogenous NT-3 and NT-4 differentially influence neurite growth depending on the presence or absence of target tissue.

Plastid DNA analysis reveals cryptic hybridization in invasive dalmatian toadflax populations

Science.gov (United States)

Andrew Boswell; Sharlene E. Sing; Sarah M. Ward

2016-01-01

Gene flow between Dalmatian toadflax (DT) and yellow toadflax (YT), both aggressive invaders throughout the Intermountain West, is creating hybrid populations potentially more invasive than either parent species. To determine the direction of gene flow in these hybrid populations, species-diagnostic cytoplasmic markers were developed. Markers were based on...

The effectiveness of different instruction methods for risk and safety management in relation to medical profession and seniority

NARCIS (Netherlands)

Navot Pikkel, Dvora

2017-01-01

The study, which was guided by Prof.dr J.b. Rijsman as promotor and by Dr. Y.T. Tal as co- promotor, was a comparative interventional study that was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of different teaching & educational strategies of risk management and patient's safety in medicine. Eventually,

Therapeutic Approaches of Botulinum Toxin in Gynecology

OpenAIRE

Marius Alexandru Moga; Oana Gabriela Dimienescu; Andreea Bălan; Ioan Scârneciu; Barna Barabaș; Liana Pleș

2018-01-01

Botulinum toxins (BoNTs) are produced by several anaerobic species of the genus Clostridium and, although they were originally considered lethal toxins, today they find their usefulness in the treatment of a wide range of pathologies in various medical specialties. Botulinum neurotoxin has been identified in seven different isoforms (BoNT-A, BoNT-B, BoNT-C, BoNT-D, BoNT-E, BoNT-F, and BoNT-G). Neurotoxigenic Clostridia can produce more than 40 different BoNT subtypes and, recently, a new BoNT...

A block Krylov subspace time-exact solution method for linear ordinary differential equation systems

NARCIS (Netherlands)

Bochev, Mikhail A.

2013-01-01

We propose a time-exact Krylov-subspace-based method for solving linear ordinary differential equation systems of the form $y'=-Ay+g(t)$ and $y"=-Ay+g(t)$, where $y(t)$ is the unknown function. The method consists of two stages. The first stage is an accurate piecewise polynomial approximation of

Yoga Therapy for Abdominal Pain-Related Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders in Children: A Randomized Controlled Trial

NARCIS (Netherlands)

Korterink, Judith J.; Ockeloen, Lize E.; Hilbink, Mirrian; Benninga, Marc A.; Deckers-Kocken, Judith M.

2016-01-01

The aim of the present study was to compare effects of 10 weeks of yoga therapy (YT) and standard medical care (SMC) on abdominal pain and quality of life (QoL) in children with abdominal pain-related functional gastrointestinal disorders (AP-FGIDs). Sixty-nine patients, ages 8 to 18 years, with

Composting of food and yard wastes by locally isolated fungal strains

African Journals Online (AJOL)

GREGORY

2011-12-16

Dec 16, 2011 ... 74% total organic matter (TOM), 7.2 pH and 132% germination index (GI) further showed the potentials of the produced compost. Based on this, food waste (FW) and yard trimmings (YT) showed an economic potential for sustainable production of compost using low technology. Key words: Lignocellulolytic ...

Influence of culture medium supplementation of tobacco NT1 cell suspension cultures on the N-glycosylation of human secreted alkaline phosphatase.

Science.gov (United States)

Becerra-Arteaga, Alejandro; Shuler, Michael L

2007-08-15

We report for the first time that culture conditions, specifically culture medium supplementation with nucleotide-sugar precursors, can alter significantly the N-linked glycosylation of a recombinant protein in plant cell culture. Human secreted alkaline phosphatase produced in tobacco NT1 cell suspension cultures was used as a model system. Plant cell cultures were supplemented with ammonia (30 mM), galactose (1 mM) and glucosamine (10 mM) to improve the extent of N-linked glycosylation. The highest levels of cell density and active extracellular SEAP in supplemented cultures were on average 260 g/L and 0.21 U/mL, respectively, compared to 340 g/L and 0.4 U/mL in unsupplemented cultures. The glycosylation profile of SEAP produced in supplemented cultures was determined via electrospray ionization mass spectrometry with precursor ion scanning and compared to that of SEAP produced in unsupplemented cultures. In supplemented and unsupplemented cultures, two biantennary complex-type structures terminated with one or two N-acetylglucosamines and one paucimannosidic glycan structure comprised about 85% of the SEAP glycan pool. These three structures contained plant-specific xylose and fucose residues and their relative abundances were affected by each supplement. High mannose structures (6-9 mannose residues) accounted for the remaining 15% glycans in all cases. The highest proportion (approximately 66%) of a single complex-type biantennary glycan structure terminated in both antennae by N- acetylglucosamine was obtained with glucosamine supplementation versus only 6% in unsupplemented medium. This structure is amenable for in vitro modification to yield a more human-like glycan and could serve as a route to plant cell culture produced therapeutic glycoproteins. (c) 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Kuntoutusta oppimassa, käytännöstä teoriaan

OpenAIRE

Similä, Markku

2010-01-01

Opinnäytetyön tavoitteena oli kehittää Kainuun ammattiopisto - liikelaitoksen tarpeisiin ammatillisen kuntoutuksen täydennyskoulutus. Tarve koulutuksen järjestämiseen tuli keväällä 2009 Kainuun alueella toimivalta Kumppaniksi ry:ltä. Täydennyskoulutuksen tavoitteena oli lisätä Kumppaniksi ry:n henkilökunnan osaamista ammatillisen kuntoutuksen käsitteistä ja toimintatavoista. Opiskelijaryhmä oli Kumppaniksi ry:n työntekijöitä. Opiskelijaryhmä koostui monen eri ammatin osaajista. Yhteistä ...

NT IN l\\I

African Journals Online (AJOL)

other nations. They taught the subjugated peoples to fight and die ... alignment with either of the superpowers. The common ... long as the cold war exists the countries of Asia. 26 and Africa ..... Having ignored the realities or the demands of the.

Superhero Comics and the Popular Geopolitics of American Identity

OpenAIRE

MIETTINEN, MERVI

2011-01-01

Englantilaisen filologian oppialaan kuuluvassa lisensiaatintutkielmassani erittelen ja analysoin supersankarisarjakuvien roolia Yhdysvaltojen populaarisen geopoliittisen identiteetin rakentumisessa. Tutkimuksessani keskityn etenkin siihen, miten supersankarisarjakuvien kautta muodostuva populaari kansallinen identiteetti tarkemmin analysoituna paljastaa useita ristiriitoja supersankarin edustamien kansallisten ihanteiden ja hahmon käytännön toimien välillä. Yhdeksi keskeisimmistä ristiriidois...

The Dickey-Fuller test for exponential random walks

NARCIS (Netherlands)

Davies, P.L.; Krämer, W.

2003-01-01

A common test in econometrics is the Dickey–Fuller test, which is based on the test statistic . We investigate the behavior of the test statistic if the data yt are given by an exponential random walk exp(Zt) where Zt = Zt-1 + [sigma][epsilon]t and the [epsilon]t are independent and identically

Determination of antidepressant activity of Cyperus rotundus L ...

African Journals Online (AJOL)

Tropical Journal of Pharmaceutical Research April 2017; 16 (4): 867-871 ... 1Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, 250012, 2Department of Psychology, People's Hospital of Linyi City, Linyi,. 276003 ..... Academic Press, 1977: 692-698. 8. Porsolt RD, Bertin A ... Lim DW, Jung JW, Park JH, Baek NI, Kim YT, Kim IH,.

Journal of Applied Sciences and Environmental Management - Vol ...

African Journals Online (AJOL)

Some physico-chemical and biological characteristics of soil and water samples of part of the Niger Delta area, Nigeria · EMAIL FREE FULL TEXT EMAIL FREE FULL TEXT DOWNLOAD FULL TEXT DOWNLOAD FULL TEXT. YT Puyate, A Rim-Rukeh. http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/jasem.v12i2.55551 ...

East African Medical Journal

African Journals Online (AJOL)

2002-07-01

Jul 1, 2002 ... PREVALENCE OF VITAMIN A DEFICIENCY AMONG PRE-SCHOOL AND SCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN IN ARSSI ZONE. ETHIOPIA. YT Asrat, BSc. MSc ... in the “low” range (<20ttl/dl) in 51% of the children. Conclusion: The results ... of Arssi zone Dodotana Sire district was selected at random for this study.

Development of a New Class of Drugs to Inhibit All Forms of Androgen Receptor in Castration Resistant Prostate Cancers

Science.gov (United States)

2016-10-01

titration methods (protein in the syringe, ligand in the cell), we were able to obtain a reproducible thermogram for the ligand binding reaction...to VPC-14449 as a model drug to assist on other related projects. 1. Tam, K., Dalal, K., Hsing, M., Cheng, C.W., Chiang, Y.T., Sharma, A., Peacock

Neurotensin analogs [D-TYR11] and [D-PHE11]neurotensin resist degradation by brain peptidases in vitro and in vivo

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Checler, F.; Vincent, J.P.; Kitabgi, P.

1983-01-01

The present study was designed to compare the susceptibility of neurotensin (NT), [ 3 H]NT, [D-Tyr11]NT and [D-Phe11]NT to degradation by 1) rat brain synaptic membranes in vitro and 2) after i.c.v. administration in the rat in vivo. Degradation was assessed by purifying the peptides using reverse phase high-performance liquid chromatography and by measuring the amount of radioactive or absorbing (OD 230) material under each peptide peak. In contrast to NT, [D-Tyr11]NT and [D-Phe11]NT were resistant to degradation by brain synaptic peptidases in vitro. Furthermore, NT was rapidly metabolized in brain tissues after i.c.v. administration, whereas [D-Tyr11]NT was metabolically stable. The present data confirm the central role of NT residue Tyr11 in the mechanisms of NT inactivation by brain synaptic peptidases. They account for the higher in vivo potency of [D-Tyr11]NT as compared with its in vitro potency. Finally, they explain, at least in part, the need to administer large doses of NT in the brain in order to observe neurobehavioral and neuropharmacological effects

Botulinum neurotoxin G binds synaptotagmin-II in a mode similar to that of serotype B: tyrosine 1186 and lysine 1191 cause its lower affinity.

Science.gov (United States)

Willjes, Gesche; Mahrhold, Stefan; Strotmeier, Jasmin; Eichner, Timo; Rummel, Andreas; Binz, Thomas

2013-06-04

Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) block neurotransmitter release by proteolyzing SNARE proteins in peripheral nerve terminals. Entry into neurons occurs subsequent to interaction with gangliosides and a synaptic vesicle protein. Isoforms I and II of synaptotagmin were shown to act as protein receptors for two of the seven BoNT serotypes, BoNT/B and BoNT/G, and for mosaic-type BoNT/DC. BoNT/B and BoNT/G exhibit a homologous binding site for synaptotagmin whose interacting part adopts helical structure upon binding to BoNT/B. Whereas the BoNT/B-synaptotagmin-II interaction has been elucidated in molecular detail, corresponding information about BoNT/G is lacking. Here we systematically mutated the synaptotagmin binding site in BoNT/G and performed a comparative binding analysis with mutants of the cell binding subunit of BoNT/B. The results suggest that synaptotagmin takes the same overall orientation in BoNT/B and BoNT/G governed by the strictly conserved central parts of the toxins' binding site. The surrounding nonconserved areas differently contribute to receptor binding. Reciprocal mutations Y1186W and L1191Y increased the level of binding of BoNT/G approximately to the level of BoNT/B affinity, suggesting a similar synaptotagmin-bound state. The effects of the mutations were confirmed by studying the activity of correspondingly mutated full-length BoNTs. On the basis of these data, molecular modeling experiments were employed to reveal an atomistic model of BoNT/G-synaptotagmin recognition. These data suggest a reduced length and/or a bend in the C-terminal part of the synaptotagmin helix that forms upon contact with BoNT/G as compared with BoNT/B and are in agreement with the data of the mutational analyses.

Double-stabilized neurotensin analogues as potential radiopharmaceuticals for NTR-positive tumors.

Science.gov (United States)

García-Garayoa, Elisa; Maes, Veronique; Bläuenstein, Peter; Blanc, Alain; Hohn, Alexander; Tourwé, Dirk; Schubiger, P August

2006-05-01

Overexpression of neurotensin (NT) receptors in exocrine pancreatic cancer and other neuroendocrine cancers make them interesting targets for tumor imaging and therapy. Modifications at the cleavage bonds 8-9 and 11-12 led to the synthesis of NT-XII, NT-XIII and NT-XVIII, three new stabilized analogues. (NalphaHis)Ac was coupled to the N-terminus for labeling with [(99m)Tc]-tricarbonyl. Stability was tested in vitro in human plasma and HT-29 cells. Binding to NT1 receptors and internalization/efflux were analyzed in intact HT-29 cells. Biodistribution studies were performed in nude mice bearing HT-29 xenografts. All analogues were very stable in human plasma, with half-lives of 20-21 days. Degradation in HT-29 cells was more rapid (t(1/2) of 6.5, 5 and 2.5 h for NT-XII, NT-XIII and NT-XVIII, respectively). They also showed high affinity and specificity for NT1 receptors. Bound activity was rapidly internalized at 37 degrees C. The pattern of externalization was different. NT-XII was released more slowly than NT-XIII and NT-XVIII (half of the activity still inside the cells after 24 h). Bigger differences were found in the biodistribution studies. NT-XII showed the highest tumor uptake as well as the best tumor to nontumor ratios. The modifications introduced in NT(8-13) increased plasma stability, maintaining unaffected the in vitro binding properties. The best biodistribution corresponded to NT-XII, which shows to be a good candidate for NT1 receptors overexpressing tumors. First clinical trials are ongoing.

Quantitation of stress/rest 201TI SPECT of the legs in the diagnosis of compartment-NT syndromes (CPS)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hayes, A.A.; Bower, G.D.; Pitstock, K.L.; Maguire, K.F.

1998-01-01

Full text: Compartment-NT syndrom (CPS) of the legs is considered to have an ischaemic basis related to muscle swelling and pressure increase in a muscle compartment (MC) during isotonic work. We decided to study selected patients where CPS was suspected with exercise 201 TI SPECT of the legs to better define their diagnoses. Eighteen patients with probable CPS reproduced their leg pain(s) during isotonic work, and 100 MBq of 201 TI was given i.v. during continued work and pain. Anterior 300 sec. planar and 360 degree, elliptical SPECT studies were acquired five minutes after stress and again four hours later. Quantitation of whole calf and regional MC uptake was attempted after the first five patients were assessed qualitatively. Ten patients were men and eight were women. The mean age was 30.8 y. Four had localised posterior and three had anterior pain with 11 having mixed and bilateral symptoms. Five patients had had a bone scan in the past and nine had MC pressure studies done within a month of study. Six patients had had previous decompressive surgery and seven patients had surgery after stress/rest studies. Four asymptomatic cardiac patients (''controls'') were imaged after their cardiac 201 TI studies and data used for comparison. Mean age of controls was 33 years. Generally even muscle uptake was seen on stress images with mean washout of 201 TI of 12% (7-23%) being calculated on delayed images of controls. Painful MCs with qualitative reduction in uptake after stress showed a mean increase in 201 TI of 25.7% (6-39%) on delayed imaging. Three patients with dramatic improvement in symptoms after surgery had shown a mean increase of 25.2% in delayed uptake in MCs on pre-operative studies. One patient showed washout of 11 and 15% from posterior MCs and had a poor response to subsequent surgery. Further clinical follow up in a large group of patients will be required to fully identify the place of Stress 201 TI imaging of the legs in this difficult group of

Hepatic and extra-hepatic metabolism of neurotensin

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Shulkes, A.; Brook, C.W.; Sewell, R.B.; Smallwood, R.A.

1986-01-01

Neurotensin (NT), released into the portal circulation from N cells in the ileum, is detected in the systemic circulation primarily as N-terminal immunoreactivity (N-NT), although it is the C-terminal end which is essential for NT bioactivity. The authors have examined the potential role of the liver in NT clearance using the isolated perfused rat liver model (IPRL) in a recycling system. With N-terminal and C-terminal directed radioimmunoassays and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), they demonstrated rapid metabolism of intact NT to inactive N-terminal fragments. C-terminal immunoreactivity (C-NT) elimination was rapid (t1/2 of 20.4 +/- 6.0 min) and significantly faster than for N-NT elimination (t1/2 of 82.7 +/- 7 min). HPLC demonstrated that C-NT was in the form of intact NT (no free C-terminal fragments) whereas N-NT was intact NT initially and predominantly N terminal fragments at 60 min. To assess whether this NT disappearance might be due to metabolism within the perfusate itself by a peptidase released from liver, the authors further incubated NT in perfusate previously circulated through liver. A rapid and progressive breakdown of intact NT to N-terminal fragments was again shown. These data demonstrate that NT is efficiently degraded to inactive N-terminal fragments by the IPRL and that a substantial proportion of this attributable to release of a peptidase by the liver into the circulation

Identification of neurotensin-related peptides in human thymic epithelial cell membranes and relationship with major histocompatibility complex class I molecules.

Science.gov (United States)

Vanneste, Y; Thome, A N; Vandersmissen, E; Charlet, C; Franchimont, D; Martens, H; Lhiaubet, A M; Schimpff, R M; Rostène, W; Geenen, V

1997-06-01

This study shows the expression at the cell surface of human thymic epithelial cells (TEC) of a neurotensin (NT)-like immunoreactivity. NT radio-immunoassay (RIA) revealed that cultured human TEC contain +/-5 ng immunoreactive (ir) NT/10(6) cells, of which 5% is associated with plasma cell membranes. HPLC analysis of NT-ir present in human TEC showed a major peak of NT-ir corresponding to NT1-13. NT-ir was not detected in the supernatant of human TEC cultures. Using an affinity column prepared with a anti-MHC class I monoclonal antibody, NT-ir-related peptides were retained on the column and eluted together with MHC class I-related proteins. According to the elution time on HPLC of these peptides, they correspond to intact NT1-13, as well as to smaller fragments of NT1-13.

Neutralization of botulinum neurotoxin by a human monoclonal antibody specific for the catalytic light chain.

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Sharad P Adekar

2008-08-01

Full Text Available Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNT are a family of category A select bioterror agents and the most potent biological toxins known. Cloned antibody therapeutics hold considerable promise as BoNT therapeutics, but the therapeutic utility of antibodies that bind the BoNT light chain domain (LC, a metalloprotease that functions in the cytosol of cholinergic neurons, has not been thoroughly explored.We used an optimized hybridoma method to clone a fully human antibody specific for the LC of serotype A BoNT (BoNT/A. The 4LCA antibody demonstrated potent in vivo neutralization when administered alone and collaborated with an antibody specific for the HC. In Neuro-2a neuroblastoma cells, the 4LCA antibody prevented the cleavage of the BoNT/A proteolytic target, SNAP-25. Unlike an antibody specific for the HC, the 4LCA antibody did not block entry of BoNT/A into cultured cells. Instead, it was taken up into synaptic vesicles along with BoNT/A. The 4LCA antibody also directly inhibited BoNT/A catalytic activity in vitro.An antibody specific for the BoNT/A LC can potently inhibit BoNT/A in vivo and in vitro, using mechanisms not previously associated with BoNT-neutralizing antibodies. Antibodies specific for BoNT LC may be valuable components of an antibody antidote for BoNT exposure.

Assessing the sources of the fishing down marine food web process in the Argentinean-Uruguayan Common Fishing Zone

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Andrés J. Jaureguizar

2008-03-01

Full Text Available The temporal trend in the mean trophic level (mTL, fisheries-in-balance index (FIB, trophic categories landing (TrC and landing profile (LP of the exploited marine community (82 species in the Argentinean-Uruguayan Common Fishing Zone (AUCFZ were examined from 1989 to 2003. The total landings (Yt (rs=-0.561; P< 0.05 and the Yt of carnivores and top predators has declined, while the Yt of herbivores, detritivores and omnivores has increased. Consequently, the mTL significantly decreased (rs =-0.88; P< 0.01 at a rate of 0.41 from 1991 (mTL =3.81 to 2003 (mTL =3.4, and the FIB index has declined in the last 6 years. The LP temporal pattern showed four periods with significant differences in their species composition and Primary Production Required, which shows a strong decline in the traditional fishery resources (i.e. Merluccius hubbsi, Micropogonias furnieri, and increases in crustacean (Chaceon notilis, molluscs (Zygochlamys patagonica and some fishes (Macrodon ancylodon, Macruronus magallanicus, Rajidae. The mTL trend reflects the changes in the AUCFZ landing structure. This was characterized by large, slow-growing and late-maturing species during the early 1990s, while during recent years, early 2000s, it was mainly characterized by medium-sized fishes, crustaceans and molluscs. The examination of the mTL, FBI, TrC trajectories and LP temporal pattern suggests that new fishery resources are developing or that the fishing effort has been redistributed from overexploited resources to lightly exploited resources. In addition, the examination of discriminator and common species, and the fact that traditional resources are being over-fished support the hypothesis that the mTL trend has been influenced more by the impacts of new fishing technologies than the changes in market-driven exploitation and environmental fluctuation. These results provide evidence of the fishing down process along AUCFZ.

Soil Salt Distribution and Tomato Response to Saline Water Irrigation under Straw Mulching.

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Yaming Zhai

Full Text Available To investigate better saline water irrigation scheme for tomatoes that scheduling with the compromise among yield (Yt, quality, irrigation water use efficiency (IWUE and soil salt residual, an experiment with three irrigation quotas and three salinities of irrigation water was conducted under straw mulching in northern China. The irrigation quota levels were 280 mm (W1, 320 mm (W2 and 360 mm (W3, and the salinity levels were 1.0 dS/m (F, 3.0 dS/m (S1 and 5.0 dS/m (S2. Compared to freshwater, saline water irrigations decreased the maximum leaf area index (LAIm of tomatoes, and the LAIm presented a decline tendency with higher salinity and lower irrigation quota. The best overall quality of tomato was obtained by S2W1, with the comprehensive quality index of 3.61. A higher salinity and lower irrigation quota resulted in a decrease of individual fruit weight and an increase of the blossom-end rot incidence, finally led to a reduction in the tomato Yt and marketable yield (Ym. After one growth season of tomato, the mass fraction of soil salt in plough layer under S2W1 treatment was the highest, and which presented a decline trend with an increasing irrigation quota. Moreover, compared to W1, soil salts had a tendency to move to the deeper soil layer when using W2 and W3 irrigation quota. According to the calculation results of projection pursuit model, S1W3 was the optimal treatment that possessed the best comprehensive benefit (tomato overall quality, Yt, Ym, IWUE and soil salt residual, and was recommended as the saline water irrigation scheme for tomatoes in northern China.

Soil Salt Distribution and Tomato Response to Saline Water Irrigation under Straw Mulching.

Science.gov (United States)

Zhai, Yaming; Yang, Qian; Wu, Yunyu

2016-01-01

To investigate better saline water irrigation scheme for tomatoes that scheduling with the compromise among yield (Yt), quality, irrigation water use efficiency (IWUE) and soil salt residual, an experiment with three irrigation quotas and three salinities of irrigation water was conducted under straw mulching in northern China. The irrigation quota levels were 280 mm (W1), 320 mm (W2) and 360 mm (W3), and the salinity levels were 1.0 dS/m (F), 3.0 dS/m (S1) and 5.0 dS/m (S2). Compared to freshwater, saline water irrigations decreased the maximum leaf area index (LAIm) of tomatoes, and the LAIm presented a decline tendency with higher salinity and lower irrigation quota. The best overall quality of tomato was obtained by S2W1, with the comprehensive quality index of 3.61. A higher salinity and lower irrigation quota resulted in a decrease of individual fruit weight and an increase of the blossom-end rot incidence, finally led to a reduction in the tomato Yt and marketable yield (Ym). After one growth season of tomato, the mass fraction of soil salt in plough layer under S2W1 treatment was the highest, and which presented a decline trend with an increasing irrigation quota. Moreover, compared to W1, soil salts had a tendency to move to the deeper soil layer when using W2 and W3 irrigation quota. According to the calculation results of projection pursuit model, S1W3 was the optimal treatment that possessed the best comprehensive benefit (tomato overall quality, Yt, Ym, IWUE and soil salt residual), and was recommended as the saline water irrigation scheme for tomatoes in northern China.

Development of tungsten coatings for the corrosion protection of alumina-based ceramics

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Arons, R.M.; Dusek, J.T.; Hafstrom, J.W.

1979-01-01

A means of applying tungsten coatings to an alumina based ceramic is described. A slurry of pure tungsten was prepared and applied by brush coating or slip casting on the alumina-3 wt % Yt small crucible. The composite was fired and a very dense ceramic crucible with a crack free tungsten coating was produced

Report of Accomplishments under the Airport Improvement Program.

Science.gov (United States)

1983-09-30

0) RUNLWAYMLhy>, FRIEDMAN MEMORIA :. ACCESLS WAY :fHppjV’EMO;:tr, * (COMMERCIAL, HAIILEY U.. 43t, 1% ISCELLAINiAUS SA!L: :v -YT;;:- FRIEDMAN MEMORIA ...airport no. funds Description of work K= 5 0 I S (CONTINUED) CHAMPAIGN/ URBANA 02 $ 423,364 TAXIWAY IMPROVEMEN’:’S; A’WVESS WAY UNIVERSITY OF CONSTRUCTION

Journal of Applied Sciences and Environmental Management - Vol ...

African Journals Online (AJOL)

Variability with depth of some physico-chemical and biological parameters of Atlantic Ocean water in part of the coastal area of Nigeria · EMAIL FREE FULL TEXT EMAIL FREE FULL TEXT DOWNLOAD FULL TEXT DOWNLOAD FULL TEXT. YT Puyate, A Rim-Rukeh. http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/jasem.v12i1.55578 ...

Remote Patient Management in a Mammographic Screening Environment in Underserved Areas

Science.gov (United States)

2005-09-01

of 4,945 paired examinations. Radiology 2001; 218:873-880. 10. Malich A, Marx C, Facius M, Boehm T, Fleck M, Kaiser WA. Tumour 24. Venta LA, Hendrick...218:873-880. KF, Sickles EA. Mammographic character- factor determining the quality of com- 15. Venta LA, Hendrick RE, Adler YT, et al. iSicks of 115

SU-E-T-417: The Impact of Normal Tissue Constraints On PTV Dose Homogeneity for Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy (IMRT), Volume Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT) and Tomotherapy

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Peng, J; McDonald, D; Ashenafi, M; Ellis, A; Vanek, K [Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC (United States)

2014-06-01

Purpose: Complex intensity modulated arc therapy tends to spread low dose to normal tissue(NT)regions to obtain improved target conformity and homogeneity and OAR sparing.This work evaluates the trade-offs between PTV homogeneity and reduction of the maximum dose(Dmax)spread to NT while planning of IMRT,VMAT and Tomotherapy. Methods: Ten prostate patients,previously planned with step-and-shoot IMRT,were selected.To fairly evaluate how PTV homogeneity was affected by NT Dmax constraints,original IMRT DVH objectives for PTV and OARs(femoral heads,and rectal and bladder wall)applied to 2 VMAT plans in Pinnacle(V9.0), and Tomotherapy(V4.2).The only constraint difference was the NT which was defined as body contours excluding targets,OARs and dose rings.NT Dmax constraint for 1st VMAT was set to the prescription dose(Dp).For 2nd VMAT(VMAT-NT)and Tomotherapy,it was set to the Dmax achieved in IMRT(~70-80% of Dp).All NT constraints were set to the lowest priority.Three common homogeneity indices(HI),RTOG-HI=Dmax/Dp,moderated-HI=D95%/D5% and complex-HI=(D2%-D98%)/Dp*100 were calculated. Results: All modalities with similar dosimetric endpoints for PTV and OARs.The complex-HI shows the most variability of indices,with average values of 5.9,4.9,9.3 and 6.1 for IMRT,VMAT,VMAT-NT and Tomotherapy,respectively.VMAT provided the best PTV homogeneity without compromising any OAR/NT sparing.Both VMAT-NT and Tomotherapy,planned with more restrictive NT constraints,showed reduced homogeneity,with VMAT-NT showing the worst homogeneity(P<0.0001)for all HI.Tomotherapy gave the lowest NT Dmax,with slightly decreased homogeneity compared to VMAT. Finally, there was no significant difference in NT Dmax or Dmean between VMAT and VMAT-NT. Conclusion: PTV HI is highly dependent on permitted NT constraints. Results demonstrated that VMAT-NT with more restrictive NT constraints does not reduce Dmax NT,but significantly receives higher Dmax and worse target homogeneity.Therefore, it is critical

Minimal Essential Domains Specifying Toxicity of the Light Chains of Tetanus Toxin and Botulinum Neurotoxin Type A

NARCIS (Netherlands)

Kurazono, Hisao; Mochida, Sumiko; Binz, Thomas; Eisel, Ulrich; Quanz, Martin; Grebenstein, Oliver; Wernars, Karel; Poulain, Bernard; Tauc, Ladislav; Niemann, Heiner

1992-01-01

To define conserved domains within the light (L) chains of clostridial neurotoxins, we determined the sequence of botulinum neurotoxin type B (BoNT/B) and aligned it with those of tetanus toxin (TeTx) and BoNT/A, BoNT/Cl, BoNT/D, and BoNT/E. The L chains of BoNT/B and TeTx share 51.6% identical

Wnt/beta-Catenin, Foxa2, and CXCR4 Axis Controls Prostate Cancer Progression

Science.gov (United States)

2014-07-01

NT1 cells that over-expressing Foxa2. The reason we used NT1 cells for the Foxa2 over-expressing experiments is that NT1 is an AR-expressing... cells . We have also established NT1 cells over-expressing a dominant active beta-catenin. We have characterized these cells . Our research found: 1...expression profiles of control NT1 , NT1 /Foxa2, and NT1 /beta-catenin cells Figure 1. We did RT-PCR to examine the expression of key

Measurement of the top-Yukawa coupling and the search for ttH production

CERN Document Server

Vasquez, Jared; The ATLAS collaboration

2015-01-01

To test whether the observed Higgs boson follows the predictions of the SM, careful study and measurement of its properties are necessary. Due to the top quark's large mass, a measurement of the top-Yukawa coupling (Y_t) is paramount to an understanding of EWSB and could provide a viable probe for new physics. While most production processes provide only an indirect measurement of Y_t via loop effects, the ttH and tH production allow for a direct tree-level measurement of the coupling strength (which could differ due to new physics contamination). The ttH process is probed through various Higgs decay channels with several advantages. The H->bb channel allows for a coupling measurement of both 3rd generation quarks while profiting from the largest Higgs branching ratio. The h->γγ channel has a much smaller branching ratio but benefits from a fine diphoton mass resolution. The process is also probed in the multilepton channel, which is targeted at the off-shell Higgs coupling of H->WW* and H->ZZ* as well as t...