Sample records for communication services pcs

  1. The evolution and impact of PCS technology

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lawson, John R.

    1994-09-01

    In today's mobile society, communications services that focus on location (wired) are increasingly inadequate. But services that center around the individual (wireless) are being developed to serve society in a way that only recently could consumers have imagined. People-oriented communications tools will make life simpler and more productive. The essence of this concept is captured in a family of wireless services and devices that allow the user to communicate independent of location--Personal Communications Services, known as PCS. First generation PCS devices such a pagers and cellular phones were the instruments of the first wireless revolution, but they will soon be forced to relinquish the spotlight to the new generation of PCS and what should be a dazzling variety of individualized advanced telecommunications services and devices. Within the next two years, these new PCS models, recently described as 'the most exciting development in telecommunications since the breakup of AT&T,' should hit the marketplace, changing the way we communicate and, in turn, the way we live. This paper explores the status and likely development of PCS generally, including 'new PCS.'

  2. Personal communications services: Improving theater deployable communications for the 21st century

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cournoyer, Ronald C., Jr.

    1994-06-01

    Personal Communications Services (PCS) may be the key ingredient for vastly improved military communications capabilities at the turn of the century. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) defines PCS as a family of mobile or portable radio communications services which could provide services to individuals and businesses and be integrated with a variety of competing networks ... the primary focus of PCS will be to meet communications requirements of people on the move. Today's generation of Theater Deployable Communications, which provides joint tactical communications to deployed forces, is the Tri-Service Tactical Communications (TRI-TAC) system. A description of TRITAC's family of equipment, network topology, typical employment, and critical limitations is presented in this thesis. Five commercial Mobile Satellite Services (MSS) are described as viable candidates for augmenting existing communications systems. Cellular design principles such as frequency reuse, cell splitting, channel access methods, and propagation factors are also addressed. Finally, a framework for comparison of the candidate MSS systems is proposed as a baseline for further studies into the most beneficial implementation of PCS into theater deployable communications systems for the future.

  3. An approach to effective UHF (S/L band) data communications for satellite Personal Communication Service (PCS)

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hayase, Joshua Y.

    1995-01-01

    Reliable signaling information transfer is fundamental in supporting the needs of data communication PCS via LMS (Land Mobile Service) SSs (satellite systems). The needs of the system designer can be satisfied only through the collection of media information that can be brought to bear on the pertinent design issues. We at ISI hope to continue our dialogue with fading media experts to address the unique data communications needs of PCS via LMS SSs.

  4. 47 CFR 24.239 - Cost-sharing requirements for broadband PCS.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... SERVICES PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Broadband PCS Policies Governing Microwave Relocation from the...) are required to relocate the existing Fixed Microwave Services (FMS) licensees in these bands if... by other PCS entities or a voluntarily relocating microwave incumbent, must contribute to such...

  5. 47 CFR 24.239 - Cost-sharing requirements for broadband PCS.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... SERVICES PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Broadband PCS Policies Governing Microwave Relocation from the...) are required to relocate the existing Fixed Microwave Services (FMS) licensees in these bands if... by other PCS entities or a voluntarily relocating microwave incumbent, must contribute to such...

  6. 47 CFR 24.239 - Cost-sharing requirements for broadband PCS.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... SERVICES PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Broadband PCS Policies Governing Microwave Relocation from the...) are required to relocate the existing Fixed Microwave Services (FMS) licensees in these bands if... by other PCS entities or a voluntarily relocating microwave incumbent, must contribute to such...

  7. 47 CFR 24.239 - Cost-sharing requirements for broadband PCS.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... SERVICES PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Broadband PCS Policies Governing Microwave Relocation from the...) are required to relocate the existing Fixed Microwave Services (FMS) licensees in these bands if... by other PCS entities or a voluntarily relocating microwave incumbent, must contribute to such...

  8. 47 CFR 24.245 - Reimbursement under the Cost-Sharing Plan.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... SERVICES PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Broadband PCS Policies Governing Microwave Relocation from the... incumbent. (2) To obtain reimbursement, a voluntarily relocating microwave incumbent must submit... PCS relocator or the voluntarily relocating microwave incumbent, must submit documentation itemizing...

  9. 47 CFR 24.245 - Reimbursement under the Cost-Sharing Plan.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... SERVICES PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Broadband PCS Policies Governing Microwave Relocation from the... incumbent. (2) To obtain reimbursement, a voluntarily relocating microwave incumbent must submit... PCS relocator or the voluntarily relocating microwave incumbent, must submit documentation itemizing...

  10. 47 CFR 24.245 - Reimbursement under the Cost-Sharing Plan.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... SERVICES PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Broadband PCS Policies Governing Microwave Relocation from the... incumbent. (2) To obtain reimbursement, a voluntarily relocating microwave incumbent must submit... PCS relocator or the voluntarily relocating microwave incumbent, must submit documentation itemizing...

  11. 47 CFR 24.245 - Reimbursement under the Cost-Sharing Plan.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... SERVICES PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Broadband PCS Policies Governing Microwave Relocation from the... incumbent. (2) To obtain reimbursement, a voluntarily relocating microwave incumbent must submit... PCS relocator or the voluntarily relocating microwave incumbent, must submit documentation itemizing...

  12. Investigation of High Linearity DFB Lasers for Analog Communications

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1998-02-01

    personal communication systems (PCS) service and phased array radar. In this thesis, we examine the dynamic range and distortion for a Fujitsu DFB laser. We...PCS) service and phased array radar. In this thesis, we examine the dynamic range and distortion for a Fujitsu DFB laser. We extract parameters from...is dependent upon the coupling coefficient, as discussed in Chapter 3. Spatial hole burning is more important at lower frequencies (owing to finite

  13. 47 CFR 2.1093 - Radiofrequency radiation exposure evaluation: portable devices.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... Cellular Radiotelephone Service pursuant to part 22 of this chapter; the Personal Communications Service (PCS) pursuant to part 24 of this chapter; the Satellite Communications Services pursuant to part 25 of this chapter; the Miscellaneous Wireless Communications Services pursuant to part 27 of this chapter...

  14. 47 CFR 24.103 - Construction requirements.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Construction requirements. 24.103 Section 24... COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Narrowband PCS § 24.103 Construction requirements. (a) Nationwide narrowband PCS... compliance with the construction requirements set forth in this section, licensees must base their...

  15. 47 CFR 24.103 - Construction requirements.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Construction requirements. 24.103 Section 24... COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Narrowband PCS § 24.103 Construction requirements. (a) Nationwide narrowband PCS... compliance with the construction requirements set forth in this section, licensees must base their...

  16. 47 CFR 24.103 - Construction requirements.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Construction requirements. 24.103 Section 24... COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Narrowband PCS § 24.103 Construction requirements. (a) Nationwide narrowband PCS... compliance with the construction requirements set forth in this section, licensees must base their...

  17. 47 CFR 24.103 - Construction requirements.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Construction requirements. 24.103 Section 24... COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Narrowband PCS § 24.103 Construction requirements. (a) Nationwide narrowband PCS... compliance with the construction requirements set forth in this section, licensees must base their...

  18. 47 CFR 24.247 - Triggering a reimbursement obligation.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Broadband PCS Policies Governing Microwave Relocation from the 1850-1990... relocator or a voluntarily relocating microwave incumbent in accordance with the formula detailed in § 24.243: (1) All or part of the relocated microwave link was initially co-channel with the licensed PCS...

  19. 47 CFR 24.247 - Triggering a reimbursement obligation.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Broadband PCS Policies Governing Microwave Relocation from the 1850-1990... relocator or a voluntarily relocating microwave incumbent in accordance with the formula detailed in § 24.243: (1) All or part of the relocated microwave link was initially co-channel with the licensed PCS...

  20. 47 CFR 24.247 - Triggering a reimbursement obligation.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Broadband PCS Policies Governing Microwave Relocation from the 1850-1990... relocator or a voluntarily relocating microwave incumbent in accordance with the formula detailed in § 24.243: (1) All or part of the relocated microwave link was initially co-channel with the licensed PCS...

  1. 47 CFR 24.247 - Triggering a reimbursement obligation.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Broadband PCS Policies Governing Microwave Relocation from the 1850-1990... relocator or a voluntarily relocating microwave incumbent in accordance with the formula detailed in § 24.243: (1) All or part of the relocated microwave link was initially co-channel with the licensed PCS...

  2. 47 CFR 24.253 - Termination of cost-sharing obligations.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Termination of cost-sharing obligations. 24.253 Section 24.253 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (CONTINUED) COMMON CARRIER SERVICES PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Broadband PCS Policies Governing Microwave Relocation from the 1850-1990...

  3. 47 CFR 24.253 - Termination of cost-sharing obligations.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Termination of cost-sharing obligations. 24.253 Section 24.253 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (CONTINUED) COMMON CARRIER SERVICES PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Broadband PCS Policies Governing Microwave Relocation from the 1850-1990...

  4. 47 CFR 24.253 - Termination of cost-sharing obligations.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Termination of cost-sharing obligations. 24.253 Section 24.253 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (CONTINUED) COMMON CARRIER SERVICES PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Broadband PCS Policies Governing Microwave Relocation from the 1850-1990...

  5. 47 CFR 24.253 - Termination of cost-sharing obligations.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Termination of cost-sharing obligations. 24.253 Section 24.253 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (CONTINUED) COMMON CARRIER SERVICES PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Broadband PCS Policies Governing Microwave Relocation from the 1850-1990...

  6. 47 CFR 24.251 - Dispute resolution under the Cost-Sharing Plan.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Dispute resolution under the Cost-Sharing Plan. 24.251 Section 24.251 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (CONTINUED) COMMON CARRIER SERVICES PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Broadband PCS Policies Governing Microwave Relocation from the...

  7. 47 CFR 24.251 - Dispute resolution under the Cost-Sharing Plan.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Dispute resolution under the Cost-Sharing Plan. 24.251 Section 24.251 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (CONTINUED) COMMON CARRIER SERVICES PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Broadband PCS Policies Governing Microwave Relocation from the...

  8. 47 CFR 24.241 - Administration of the Cost-Sharing Plan.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Administration of the Cost-Sharing Plan. 24.241 Section 24.241 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (CONTINUED) COMMON CARRIER SERVICES PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Broadband PCS Policies Governing Microwave Relocation from the 1850-1990...

  9. 47 CFR 24.241 - Administration of the Cost-Sharing Plan.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Administration of the Cost-Sharing Plan. 24.241 Section 24.241 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (CONTINUED) COMMON CARRIER SERVICES PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Broadband PCS Policies Governing Microwave Relocation from the 1850-1990...

  10. 47 CFR 24.251 - Dispute resolution under the Cost-Sharing Plan.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Dispute resolution under the Cost-Sharing Plan. 24.251 Section 24.251 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (CONTINUED) COMMON CARRIER SERVICES PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Broadband PCS Policies Governing Microwave Relocation from the...

  11. 47 CFR 24.241 - Administration of the Cost-Sharing Plan.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Administration of the Cost-Sharing Plan. 24.241 Section 24.241 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (CONTINUED) COMMON CARRIER SERVICES PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Broadband PCS Policies Governing Microwave Relocation from the 1850-1990...

  12. 47 CFR 24.241 - Administration of the Cost-Sharing Plan.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Administration of the Cost-Sharing Plan. 24.241 Section 24.241 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (CONTINUED) COMMON CARRIER SERVICES PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Broadband PCS Policies Governing Microwave Relocation from the 1850-1990...

  13. 47 CFR 24.251 - Dispute resolution under the Cost-Sharing Plan.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Dispute resolution under the Cost-Sharing Plan. 24.251 Section 24.251 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (CONTINUED) COMMON CARRIER SERVICES PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Broadband PCS Policies Governing Microwave Relocation from the...

  14. 47 CFR 24.3 - Permissible communications.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... SERVICES General Information § 24.3 Permissible communications. PCS licensees may provide any mobile... mobile operations. Broadcasting as defined in the Communications Act is prohibited. [61 FR 45356, Aug. 29... 47 Telecommunication 2 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Permissible communications. 24.3 Section 24.3...

  15. 47 CFR 24.717 - Bidding credits for licenses for frequency Block F.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... Block F. 24.717 Section 24.717 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (CONTINUED) COMMON CARRIER SERVICES PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Competitive Bidding Procedures for Broadband PCS § 24... closed bidding in auctions that begin after March 23, 1999, a winning bidder that qualifies as a small...

  16. 47 CFR 24.712 - Bidding credits for licenses won for frequency Block C.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... Block C. 24.712 Section 24.712 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (CONTINUED) COMMON CARRIER SERVICES PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Competitive Bidding Procedures for Broadband PCS § 24... closed bidding in auctions that begin after March 23, 1999, a winning bidder that qualifies as a small...

  17. 47 CFR 15.305 - Equipment authorization requirement.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... Section 15.305 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION GENERAL RADIO FREQUENCY DEVICES Unlicensed Personal Communications Service Devices § 15.305 Equipment authorization requirement. PCS devices... 2 of this chapter before marketing. The application for certification must contain sufficient...

  18. 47 CFR 15.305 - Equipment authorization requirement.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... Section 15.305 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION GENERAL RADIO FREQUENCY DEVICES Unlicensed Personal Communications Service Devices § 15.305 Equipment authorization requirement. PCS devices... 2 of this chapter before marketing. The application for certification must contain sufficient...

  19. Population communication services: a global perspective.

    PubMed

    Piotrow, P T; Coleman, P L; Rimon, J G

    1987-06-01

    Communication support for health and family planning programs is receiving renewed attention. The johns Hopkins University (JHU) Population Communication Services (PCS) project was established in 1982 to respond to the increasing need for communication expertise, to provide a responsive source for advice, and to develop implement the new directions that are necessary to make family planning communication programs more effective. The project extends a range of services to government programs, private family planning associations, and to media that want to improve the content or coverage of family planning communication, JHU/PCS emphasizes the close links between good communication and good management and the need for managers at all levels, from the Minister of Health to the supervisor of grass-roots field workers, to understand the components of a communication program for the 1980s. Principles underlying the project's work include: communication as process rather than product, the audience as participant, linking mass media and interpersonal communication, coordination with and among agencies, training that is specific and relevant, IEC as institution building, use of the private sector, an attempt to recover some of the costs of IEC work, and ongoing evaluation of program activities. IEC activities can be strengthened considerably b a knowledgeable commitment at the top of the decision-making process; constant feedback from intended audiences; and interactions among service delivery personnel, influential community members, and the media. In turn, strong IEC activities can substantially strengthen existing family planning programs.

  20. 47 CFR 15.317 - Antenna requirement.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 1 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Antenna requirement. 15.317 Section 15.317 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION GENERAL RADIO FREQUENCY DEVICES Unlicensed Personal Communications Service Devices § 15.317 Antenna requirement. An unlicensed PCS device must meet the antenna...

  1. 47 CFR 15.317 - Antenna requirement.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Antenna requirement. 15.317 Section 15.317 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION GENERAL RADIO FREQUENCY DEVICES Unlicensed Personal Communications Service Devices § 15.317 Antenna requirement. An unlicensed PCS device must meet the antenna...

  2. 47 CFR 15.317 - Antenna requirement.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 1 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Antenna requirement. 15.317 Section 15.317 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION GENERAL RADIO FREQUENCY DEVICES Unlicensed Personal Communications Service Devices § 15.317 Antenna requirement. An unlicensed PCS device must meet the antenna...

  3. 47 CFR 15.317 - Antenna requirement.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 1 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Antenna requirement. 15.317 Section 15.317 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION GENERAL RADIO FREQUENCY DEVICES Unlicensed Personal Communications Service Devices § 15.317 Antenna requirement. An unlicensed PCS device must meet the antenna...

  4. 47 CFR 15.317 - Antenna requirement.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 1 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Antenna requirement. 15.317 Section 15.317 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION GENERAL RADIO FREQUENCY DEVICES Unlicensed Personal Communications Service Devices § 15.317 Antenna requirement. An unlicensed PCS device must meet the antenna...

  5. 47 CFR 101.101 - Frequency availability.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (CONTINUED) SAFETY AND SPECIAL RADIO SERVICES FIXED MICROWAVE... Television Relay Service—(Part 78) CC: Common Carrier Fixed Point-to-Point Microwave Service—(Part 101...-Point Microwave Service—(Part 101, Subparts C & H) PCS: Personal Communications Service—(Part 24) PET...

  6. 47 CFR 15.309 - Cross reference.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION GENERAL RADIO FREQUENCY DEVICES Unlicensed Personal Communications Service Devices § 15.309 Cross reference. (a) The provisions of subpart A of this part apply to... PCS device that includes digital circuitry not directly associated with the radio transmitter also is...

  7. 75 FR 33220 - Unlicensed Personal Communications Services Devices in the 1920-1930 MHz Band

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-06-11

    ... required minimum number of channels and transmit on the channels with the lowest power. According to DECT... interference to adjacent-band Advanced Wireless Service (AWS) and PCS services. 3. DECT claims that its... with the lowest power and an alternative approach suggested by DECT--could require affected systems to...

  8. 47 CFR 24.203 - Construction requirements.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Construction requirements. 24.203 Section 24... COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Broadband PCS § 24.203 Construction requirements. (a) Licensees of 30 MHz blocks must... population census to determine the five-year construction requirement. Failure by any licensee to meet these...

  9. 47 CFR 24.203 - Construction requirements.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Construction requirements. 24.203 Section 24... COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Broadband PCS § 24.203 Construction requirements. (a) Licensees of 30 MHz blocks must... population census to determine the five-year construction requirement. Failure by any licensee to meet these...

  10. 47 CFR 24.203 - Construction requirements.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Construction requirements. 24.203 Section 24... COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Broadband PCS § 24.203 Construction requirements. (a) Licensees of 30 MHz blocks must... population census to determine the five-year construction requirement. Failure by any licensee to meet these...

  11. 47 CFR 24.203 - Construction requirements.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Construction requirements. 24.203 Section 24... COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Broadband PCS § 24.203 Construction requirements. (a) Licensees of 30 MHz blocks must... population census to determine the five-year construction requirement. Failure by any licensee to meet these...

  12. The Evolution and Impact of PCS Technology.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1994-09-01

    CTIA), June, 1994), p. 4. 44 Communication Daily, Vol. 14, No. 137, July 18, 1994, p.3. i45 FinTech Mobile Communications, June 16, 1994. 46 FCC...a palm-sized portable answering machine 3 which can receive and replay voice messages based on Voice Now service being developed I 47 FinTech Mobile...1994. 66 FinTech Mobile Communications, June 16, 1994. 67 Leslie Cauley, "U S West Inc., AirTouch Plan," Wall Street Journal, July 26, 1994. I II-10

  13. 47 CFR 24.2 - Other applicable rule parts.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-10-01

    ... licensees in the personal communications services include the following: (a) Part 0. This part describes the... marketing and importation of radio frequency devices, and for obtaining equipment authorization. (d) Part 5... relating to the marketing of part 15 devices. Unlicensed PCS devices operate under subpart D of part 15. (f...

  14. 47 CFR 24.2 - Other applicable rule parts.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... licensees in the personal communications services include the following: (a) Part 0. This part describes the... marketing and importation of radio frequency devices, and for obtaining equipment authorization. (d) Part 5... relating to the marketing of part 15 devices. Unlicensed PCS devices operate under subpart D of part 15. (f...

  15. 47 CFR 24.2 - Other applicable rule parts.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... licensees in the personal communications services include the following: (a) Part 0. This part describes the... marketing and importation of radio frequency devices, and for obtaining equipment authorization. (d) Part 5... relating to the marketing of part 15 devices. Unlicensed PCS devices operate under subpart D of part 15. (f...

  16. The iconicity of picture communication symbols for children with English additional language and mild intellectual disability.

    PubMed

    Dada, Shakila; Huguet, Alice; Bornman, Juan

    2013-12-01

    The purpose of this study was to examine the iconicity of 16 Picture Communication Symbols (PCS) presented on a themed bed-making communication overlay for South African children with English as an additional language and mild intellectual disability. The survey involved 30 participants. The results indicated that, overall, the 16 symbols were relatively iconic to the participants. The authors suggest that the iconicity of picture symbols could be manipulated, enhanced, and influenced by contextual effects (other PCS used simultaneously on the communication overlay). In addition, selection of non-target PCS for target PCS were discussed in terms of postulated differences in terms of distinctiveness. Potential clinical implications and limitations of the study, as well as recommendations for future research, are discussed.

  17. 47 CFR 24.238 - Emission limitations for Broadband PCS equipment.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-10-01

    ... Broadband Personal Communications Service. (a) Out of band emissions. The power of any emission outside of the authorized operating frequency ranges must be attenuated below the transmitting power (P) by a factor of at least 43 + 10 log(P) dB. (b) Measurement procedure. Compliance with these rules is based on...

  18. 47 CFR 24.238 - Emission limitations for Broadband PCS equipment.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... Broadband Personal Communications Service. (a) Out of band emissions. The power of any emission outside of the authorized operating frequency ranges must be attenuated below the transmitting power (P) by a factor of at least 43 + 10 log(P) dB. (b) Measurement procedure. Compliance with these rules is based on...

  19. 47 CFR 24.238 - Emission limitations for Broadband PCS equipment.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... Broadband Personal Communications Service. (a) Out of band emissions. The power of any emission outside of the authorized operating frequency ranges must be attenuated below the transmitting power (P) by a factor of at least 43 + 10 log(P) dB. (b) Measurement procedure. Compliance with these rules is based on...

  20. 47 CFR 24.238 - Emission limitations for Broadband PCS equipment.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... Broadband Personal Communications Service. (a) Out of band emissions. The power of any emission outside of the authorized operating frequency ranges must be attenuated below the transmitting power (P) by a factor of at least 43 + 10 log(P) dB. (b) Measurement procedure. Compliance with these rules is based on...

  1. 47 CFR 24.132 - Power and antenna height limits.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Power and antenna height limits. 24.132 Section... PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Narrowband PCS § 24.132 Power and antenna height limits. (a) Stations... unlimited in antenna height except as provided in paragraph (d) of this section. (d)(1) MTA and regional...

  2. 47 CFR 24.132 - Power and antenna height limits.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Power and antenna height limits. 24.132 Section... PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Narrowband PCS § 24.132 Power and antenna height limits. (a) Stations... unlimited in antenna height except as provided in paragraph (d) of this section. (d)(1) MTA and regional...

  3. 47 CFR 24.232 - Power and antenna height limits.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Power and antenna height limits. 24.232 Section... PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Broadband PCS § 24.232 Power and antenna height limits. (a)(1) Base... radiated power (EIRP) with an antenna height up to 300 meters HAAT, except as described in paragraph (b...

  4. 47 CFR 24.232 - Power and antenna height limits.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Power and antenna height limits. 24.232 Section... PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Broadband PCS § 24.232 Power and antenna height limits. (a)(1) Base... radiated power (EIRP) with an antenna height up to 300 meters HAAT, except as described in paragraph (b...

  5. 47 CFR 24.132 - Power and antenna height limits.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Power and antenna height limits. 24.132 Section... PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Narrowband PCS § 24.132 Power and antenna height limits. (a) Stations... unlimited in antenna height except as provided in paragraph (d) of this section. (d)(1) MTA and regional...

  6. 47 CFR 24.232 - Power and antenna height limits.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Power and antenna height limits. 24.232 Section... PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Broadband PCS § 24.232 Power and antenna height limits. (a)(1) Base... radiated power (EIRP) with an antenna height up to 300 meters HAAT, except as described in paragraph (b...

  7. 47 CFR 24.232 - Power and antenna height limits.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Power and antenna height limits. 24.232 Section... PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Broadband PCS § 24.232 Power and antenna height limits. (a)(1) Base... radiated power (EIRP) with an antenna height up to 300 meters HAAT, except as described in paragraph (b...

  8. 47 CFR 24.132 - Power and antenna height limits.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Power and antenna height limits. 24.132 Section... PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Narrowband PCS § 24.132 Power and antenna height limits. (a) Stations... unlimited in antenna height except as provided in paragraph (d) of this section. (d)(1) MTA and regional...

  9. 47 CFR 24.232 - Power and antenna height limits.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Power and antenna height limits. 24.232 Section... PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Broadband PCS § 24.232 Power and antenna height limits. (a)(1) Base... radiated power (EIRP) with an antenna height up to 300 meters HAAT, except as described in paragraph (b...

  10. 47 CFR 24.132 - Power and antenna height limits.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Power and antenna height limits. 24.132 Section... PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Narrowband PCS § 24.132 Power and antenna height limits. (a) Stations... unlimited in antenna height except as provided in paragraph (d) of this section. (d)(1) MTA and regional...

  11. Provision of pharmaceutical care services in North Carolina: a 1999 survey.

    PubMed

    McDermott, June H; Christensen, Dale B

    2002-01-01

    To describe the extent of and factors associated with the provision of pharmaceutical care services (PCS) and value-added pharmaceutical services (PS) by pharmacists in North Carolina, the physical changes made in pharmacies to accommodate these services, the nature and extent of prior consent or collaborative practice arrangements between North Carolina pharmacists and prescribers, and the frequency of reimbursement for PCS. Descriptive study based on a mail survey. Pharmacist-managers at each of the 2,048 licensed pharmacy sites in North Carolina; a list of licensed pharmacies provided by the North Carolina Board of Pharmacy was used as the sampling frame. Pharmacists' reports of PCS and pharmacy demographics. Response rate was 40%. More than 30% of respondents provided PCS at their site, although only 20% met our more stringent definition of PCS (i.e., ensuring appropriate pharmacotherapy, ensuring patient understanding and adherence, and monitoring and reporting patient outcomes). Services were more frequently offered by university-affiliated (35%) or independent (32%) pharmacies. The median number of patients receiving PCS across all sites was 10 per week. Diabetes was the most common health problem for which PCS were offered. Three variables-weekly prescription volume (positive correlation); number of staff pharmacists with advanced training, specifically fellowship training; and medical clinic/health maintenance organization setting-were significant predictors of the numbers of patients provided PCS. Independent community pharmacies were most likely to have private counseling areas and to bill for and receive payment for PCS. In North Carolina, a substantial number of pharmacists provided PCS in 1999 or planned to do so in the near future. However, the number of patients receiving PCS was relatively low. Practice setting, pharmacist education level, and prescription volume were weakly predictive of the number of patients receiving PCS. Pharmacists commonly used prior consent arrangements with physicians in their practices, but primarily to facilitate generic substitution. Relatively few pharmacists billed for PS or PCS.

  12. Pricing the property claim service (PCS) catastrophe insurance options using gamma distribution

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Noviyanti, Lienda; Soleh, Achmad Zanbar; Setyanto, Gatot R.

    2017-03-01

    The catastrophic events like earthquakes, hurricanes or flooding are characteristics for some areas, a properly calculated annual premium would be closely as high as the loss insured. From an actuarial perspective, such events constitute the risk that are not insurable. On the other hand people living in such areas need protection. In order to securitize the catastrophe risk, futures or options based on a loss index could be considered. Chicago Board of Trade launched a new class of catastrophe insurance options based on new indices provided by Property Claim Services (PCS). The PCS-option is based on the Property Claim Service Index (PCS-Index). The index are used to determine and payout in writing index-based insurance derivatives. The objective of this paper is to price PCS Catastrophe Insurance Option based on PCS Catastrophe index. Gamma Distribution is used to estimate PCS Catastrophe index distribution.

  13. 47 CFR 20.6 - CMRS spectrum aggregation limit.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... the broadband PCS, cellular, or SMR services (including all parties under common control) regulated as... of the population of the PCS licensed service area for the counties contained therein, as determined... covers less than 10 percent of the population of a PCS service area if none of the base stations of the...

  14. 47 CFR 20.6 - CMRS spectrum aggregation limit.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... the broadband PCS, cellular, or SMR services (including all parties under common control) regulated as... of the population of the PCS licensed service area for the counties contained therein, as determined... covers less than 10 percent of the population of a PCS service area if none of the base stations of the...

  15. Consumer-directed models of personal care: lessons from Medicaid.

    PubMed

    Doty, P; Kasper, J; Litvak, S

    1996-01-01

    "Consumer-directed" models of financing and services delivery are compared with models that emphasize professional control and accountability within the context of Medicaid-financed personal care services (PCS). The Medicaid PCS benefit finances aide or attendant services for low-income persons with functional disabilities to assist them with daily living tasks. Consumer-directed modes of service provision permit service recipients themselves to have greater choice and control over all aspects of service provision. Client surveys in three states found that clients were most satisfied with the program elements of Medicaid PCS services that gave them more choice and control. Case studies of how Medicaid PCS programs in particular states are administered indicate that the use of aides who are independent providers, unattached to a home health or home care agency, is a critical aspect of consumer direction. By itself, however, this factor does not guarantee consumer direction because other Medicaid PCS rules and regulations may restrict client choice and control.

  16. The enter-educate approach.

    PubMed

    Piotrow, P T; Coleman, P L

    1992-03-01

    This article describes how the Population Communication Services (PCS) has seized on the "enter-educate" approach, the blending of popular entertainment with social messages, to change reproductive health behavior. The enter-educate approach spreads its message through songs, soap operas, variety shows, and other types of popular entertainment mediums. Because they entertain, enter-educate projects can capture the attention of an audience -- such as young people -- who would otherwise scorn social messages. And the use of population mediums makes it possible to reach a variety of audiences. Funded by USAID, PCS began its first enter-educate project in response to the increasing number of teenage pregnancies in Latin America. PCS developed 2 songs and videos, which featured popular teenage singers to serve as role models, to urge abstinence. The songs became instant hits. Since then, PCS has mounted more then 80 major projects in some 40 countries. Highlights of programs range from a successful multi-media family planning campaign in Turkey to humorous television ads in Brazil promoting vasectomy. Recently, PCS initiated projects to teach AIDS awareness. At the core of the enter-educate approach is the social learning theory which holds that much behavior is learned through the observation of role-models. Health professionals work alongside entertainers to produce works that have audience appeal and factual social messages. The enter-educate approach works because it is popular, pervasive, personal, persuasive, and profitable. PCS has found that enter-educate programs pay for themselves through cost sharing and cost recovery.

  17. Personal care services provided to children with special health care needs (CSHCN) and their subsequent use of physician services.

    PubMed

    Miller, Thomas R; Elliott, Timothy R; McMaughan, Darcy M; Patnaik, Ashweeta; Naiser, Emily; Dyer, James A; Fournier, Constance J; Hawes, Catherine; Phillips, Charles D

    2013-10-01

    Medicaid Personal Care Services (PCS) help families meet children's needs for assistance with functional tasks. However, PCS may have other effects on a child's well-being, but research has not yet established the existence of such effects. To investigate the relationship between the number of PCS hours a child receives with subsequent visits to physicians for evaluation and management (E&M) services. Assessment data for 2058 CSHCN receiving PCS were collected in 2008 and 2009. Assessment data were matched with Medicaid claims data for the period of 1 year after the assessment. Zero-inflated negative binomial and generalized linear multivariate regression models were used in the analyses. These models included patient demographics, health status, household resources, and use of other medical services. For every 10 additional PCS hours authorized for a child, the odds of having an E&M physician visit in the next year were reduced by 25%. However, the number of PCS hours did not have a significant effect on the number of visits by those children who did have a subsequent E&M visit. A variety of demographic and health status measures also affect physician use. Medicaid PCS for CSHCN may be associated with reduced physician usage because of benefits realized by continuity of care, the early identification of potential health threats, or family and patient education. PCS services may contribute to a child's well-being by providing continuous relationships with the care team that promote good chronic disease management, education, and support for the family. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  18. 47 CFR 24.5 - Terms and definitions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... in the National Geodetic Survey (NGS) data base. (Source: National Geodetic Survey, U.S. Department... antenna site. Base Station. A land station in the land mobile service. Broadband PCS. PCS services.... Fixed Station. A station in the fixed service. Land Mobile Service. A mobile service between base...

  19. 47 CFR 24.5 - Terms and definitions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... in the National Geodetic Survey (NGS) data base. (Source: National Geodetic Survey, U.S. Department... antenna site. Base Station. A land station in the land mobile service. Broadband PCS. PCS services.... Fixed Station. A station in the fixed service. Land Mobile Service. A mobile service between base...

  20. 47 CFR 24.5 - Terms and definitions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... in the National Geodetic Survey (NGS) data base. (Source: National Geodetic Survey, U.S. Department... antenna site. Base Station. A land station in the land mobile service. Broadband PCS. PCS services.... Fixed Station. A station in the fixed service. Land Mobile Service. A mobile service between base...

  1. 47 CFR 24.5 - Terms and definitions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-10-01

    ... in the National Geodetic Survey (NGS) data base. (Source: National Geodetic Survey, U.S. Department... antenna site. Base Station. A land station in the land mobile service. Broadband PCS. PCS services.... Fixed Station. A station in the fixed service. Land Mobile Service. A mobile service between base...

  2. Comparison of neural network applications for channel assignment in cellular TDMA networks and dynamically sectored PCS networks

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hortos, William S.

    1997-04-01

    The use of artificial neural networks (NNs) to address the channel assignment problem (CAP) for cellular time-division multiple access and code-division multiple access networks has previously been investigated by this author and many others. The investigations to date have been based on a hexagonal cell structure established by omnidirectional antennas at the base stations. No account was taken of the use of spatial isolation enabled by directional antennas to reduce interference between mobiles. Any reduction in interference translates into increased capacity and consequently alters the performance of the NNs. Previous studies have sought to improve the performance of Hopfield- Tank network algorithms and self-organizing feature map algorithms applied primarily to static channel assignment (SCA) for cellular networks that handle uniformly distributed, stationary traffic in each cell for a single type of service. The resulting algorithms minimize energy functions representing interference constraint and ad hoc conditions that promote convergence to optimal solutions. While the structures of the derived neural network algorithms (NNAs) offer the potential advantages of inherent parallelism and adaptability to changing system conditions, this potential has yet to be fulfilled the CAP for emerging mobile networks. The next-generation communication infrastructures must accommodate dynamic operating conditions. Macrocell topologies are being refined to microcells and picocells that can be dynamically sectored by adaptively controlled, directional antennas and programmable transceivers. These networks must support the time-varying demands for personal communication services (PCS) that simultaneously carry voice, data and video and, thus, require new dynamic channel assignment (DCA) algorithms. This paper examines the impact of dynamic cell sectoring and geometric conditioning on NNAs developed for SCA in omnicell networks with stationary traffic to improve the metrics of convergence rate and call blocking. Genetic algorithms (GAs) are also considered in PCS networks as a means to overcome the known weakness of Hopfield NNAs in determining global minima. The resulting GAs for DCA in PCS networks are compared to improved DCA algorithms based on Hopfield NNs for stationary cellular networks. Algorithm performance is compared on the basis of rate of convergence, blocking probability, analytic complexity, and parametric sensitivity to transient traffic demands and channel interference.

  3. [Adaptation of the picture exchange communication system in a school context].

    PubMed

    Almeida, Maria Amélia; Piza, Maria Helena Machado; Lamônica, Dionísa Aparecida Cusin

    2005-01-01

    Alternative communication. To evaluate the efficacy of the adapted Pecs and Picture Communication Symbols (PCS) in the communication of a child with cerebral palsy. The participant of this study was a 9 year and 10 months old girl, with athetoid quadriplegia. All stages of the adapted Pecs were applied (Walter, 2000), using the PCS pictures (Johnson, 1998), associated with the functional curriculum proposed by LeBlanc (1991). An experimental AB Design was used in order to test the procedures. The subject was able to pass through all of the adapted Pecs phases and to use her communication board in school activities. The adapted Pecs proved to be effective in improving the subject's communication abilities.

  4. Financial Services and the Internet: What Does Cyberspace Mean for the Financial Services Industry?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Birch, David; Young, Michael A.

    1997-01-01

    More than 30 million households own PCs and more than 20% of these use PCs to manage their finances. This article examines the Internet and financial services, consumer needs, and differentiation in service products and predicts future trends in retail financial services (cheaper niche products, cross-border selling, selling knowledge, payments,…

  5. The Personal Hearing System—A Software Hearing Aid for a Personal Communication System

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Grimm, Giso; Guilmin, Gwénaël; Poppen, Frank; Vlaming, Marcel S. M. G.; Hohmann, Volker

    2009-12-01

    A concept and architecture of a personal communication system (PCS) is introduced that integrates audio communication and hearing support for the elderly and hearing-impaired through a personal hearing system (PHS). The concept envisions a central processor connected to audio headsets via a wireless body area network (WBAN). To demonstrate the concept, a prototype PCS is presented that is implemented on a netbook computer with a dedicated audio interface in combination with a mobile phone. The prototype can be used for field-testing possible applications and to reveal possibilities and limitations of the concept of integrating hearing support in consumer audio communication devices. It is shown that the prototype PCS can integrate hearing aid functionality, telephony, public announcement systems, and home entertainment. An exemplary binaural speech enhancement scheme that represents a large class of possible PHS processing schemes is shown to be compatible with the general concept. However, an analysis of hardware and software architectures shows that the implementation of a PCS on future advanced cell phone-like devices is challenging. Because of limitations in processing power, recoding of prototype implementations into fixed point arithmetic will be required and WBAN performance is still a limiting factor in terms of data rate and delay.

  6. Enter-educate: new word from Johns Hopkins.

    PubMed

    Coleman, P L

    1988-01-01

    Social development communication activities are competing with all of the other communication activities for the attention of the audience. The Johns Hopkins University/Population Communication Services (JHU/PCS) strongly believes that one of the best ways to get the attention of a designated audience, and to keep it, is to entertain the audience and educate it at the same time. They call this concept enter-educate. The basic precepts of this approach include: 1) Choose the most appropriate medium to reach the intended audience; 2) Enlist professionals experienced in the chosen medium in order to have access to the best available resources; 3) Develop a high-quality product that will attract the commercial sector; 4) Use a medium which has a big regional or national audience; and 5) Make the program appealing by including entertainment elements appropriate for the intended audience and not obviously preachy. The most successful project that JHU/PCS has supported that incorporated the concept of enter-educate is the Communication for Young People project in Latin America, better known as the Tatiana and Johnny project. This project used popular music, and its spin offs, to reach young people in 11 Spanish-speaking countries with a sexual responsibility message. Other successful projects in Nigeria and Mali are also described. Nigeria used television shows with family planning skits; in Mali the traditional Koteba theatrical format was made into films for short cinema showings before the main feature.

  7. Pediatric palliative care consultation services in California hospitals.

    PubMed

    Reid, Thomas; O'Riordan, David L; Mazzini, Andrea; Bruno, Kelly A; Pantilat, Steven Z

    2014-12-01

    The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that palliative care be available to seriously ill hospitalized children, yet little is known about how these services are structured. The study's aim is to report the prevalence of pediatric palliative care services (PCS) and compare the structure of pediatric PCS to adult PCS within California hospitals. We surveyed 377 hospitals to assess the prevalence, structure, and characteristics of pediatric and adult PCS. Hospitals were categorized as children's hospitals with a pediatric-only PCS, mixed hospitals with pediatric and adult PCS, and hospitals with adult-only PCS. All 8 children's hospitals in the state reported having a pediatric PCS, and 36 pediatric PCSs were in mixed hospitals. Mixed hospitals saw fewer (p=0.0001) children per year (mean=5.6, standard deviation [SD]=3.6) than pediatric-only PCSs (mean=168, SD=73). Pediatric-only PCSs treated more patients for noncancer-related illness (82.5%) than pediatric PCSs in mixed hospitals (34.5%, p=0.03) or adult-only PCSs (52.4%, p=0.001). All PCSs were universally available (100%) during weekday business hours and half were available during weekend business hours. Pediatric-only PCSs had a mean total full-time equivalent (FTE) of 1.9, which was not significantly different (p=0.3) from the total FTE for pediatric PCSs in mixed hospitals (mean=1.1, SD=1.4) or for adult-only PCSs (mean=2.7, SD=2.0). However, in mixed hospitals the adult PCS had a significantly higher (p=0.005) total FTE (mean=2.4, SD=1.3) than the pediatric PCS (mean=1.1, SD=1.4). All children's hospital and a few mixed hospitals offer pediatric PCS. Better understanding of the palliative care needs of seriously ill children in mixed hospitals and assessment of the quality of care provided will help ensure that children seen in these hospitals receive necessary care.

  8. Information Technologies Pre-Service Teachers' Acceptance of Tablet PCs as an Innovative Learning Tool

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Cuhadar, Cem

    2014-01-01

    The current study is aimed to determine if Turkish IT pre-service teachers' acceptance of tablet PCs is within the framework of the Technology Acceptance Model. The research was patterned as a phenomenological study which is among the qualitative research methods. Participants were eight pre-service teachers studying in Trakya University, Faculty…

  9. Platform for frail elderly people supporting information and communication.

    PubMed

    Man, Yan Ping; Cremers, Ger; Spreeuwenberg, Marieke; de Witte, Luc

    2015-01-01

    There is a growing need for technology to support the frail elderly living independently in home situations. Several telecommunication systems already exist. These systems are developed mainly from the perspective of healthcare professionals and focus on efficient delivery of healthcare services. They hardly meet the specific needs of the frail elderly. In this project a platform with specific needs of the frail elderly people has been designed, running on standard PCs. This system supports living independently, social participation, wellbeing, and asking for care services. The platform was evaluated and subjects assess the system as user friendly, and supportive for their independence and self-reliance. They recommend it to other users.

  10. AMT experiment results

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Abbe, Brian S.; Pinck, Deborah S.

    1995-01-01

    The Advanced Communications Technology Satellite (ACTS) Mobile Terminal (AMT) experiments have provided a terminal technology testbed for the evaluation of K- and Ka-band mobile satellite communications (satcom). Such a system could prove to be highly beneficial for many different commercial and government mobile satcom users. Combining ACTS' highly concentrated spotbeams with the smaller, higher-gain Ka-band antenna technology, results in a system design that can support a much higher throughput capacity than today's commercial configurations. To date, experiments in such diverse areas as emergency medical applications, enhanced Personal Communication Services (PCS), disaster recovery assistance, military applications, and general voice and data services have already been evaluated. Other applications that will be evaluated over the next year include telemedicine, ISDN, and television network return feed. Baseline AMT performance results will be presented, including Bit Error Rate (BER) curves and mobile propagation data characterizing the K- and Ka-band mobile satcom channel. In addition, observations from many of the application-specific experiments will also be provided.

  11. Lessons we most enjoy learning.

    PubMed

    Coleman, P L

    1993-03-01

    In the mid-1970s, the Philippine Commission on Population (POPCOM) began to use entertainment programs for reaching people with messages on population and development issues. 2 major motion pictures contained family planning (FP) messages. Radio dramas, print media, and theater also were used to convey FP messages. The early experiments were continued in the late 1980s through the work of the Philippine Center for Population and Development (PCPD). PCPD, with the assistance of the Johns Hopkins University/Population Communication Services (JHU/PCS) project, embarked on a program which used popular music to encourage young people to become sexually responsible adults. In 1990, the Philippine Non-Governmental Organization Council (PNGOC), the Department of Health (DOH) and JHU/PCS began an effort funded by USAID to form a coalition with the entertainment community for social development causes. DOH, JHU/PCS, and USAID wanted to promote FP and health through the Enter-Educate concept. PNGOC and JHU/PCS contacted over 20 entertainment organizations and held more than 75 conferences, work shops, and meetings which attended by more than 300 people. The movement of Entertainment for Social Change was launched in October 1991 with the creation of the Enter-Educate Foundation, Inc. (EEF). The aims of EEF include rewards, professional approach, and establishment of a network of dedicated entertainment and social development professionals. In 1993, a television comedy series will focus on FP as well as on maternal and child health. Further plans at the local level include: tree planting; discussions on migration; talks about FP; meetings on community population and environment activities; and networking of organizations involved with youth, the environment, and population. JHU/PCS provides technical assistance for the production, monitoring, and evaluation of the project. With these efforts, the EEF is attempting to focus on the country's biggest problems: population and the environment.

  12. Impact of wireless communication on multimedia application performance

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Brown, Kevin A.

    1999-01-01

    Multimedia applications and specifically voice and video conferencing tools are widely used in business communications, and are quickly being discovered by the consumer market as well. At the same time, wireless communication services such as PCS voice and cellular data are becoming very popular, leading to the desire to deploy multimedia applications in the wireless environment. Wireless links, however, exhibit several characteristics which are different from traditional wired networks. These include: dynamically changing bandwidth due to mobile host movement in and out of cell where bandwidth is shared, high rates of packet corruption and subsequent loss, and frequent are lengthy disconnections due to obstacles, fading, and movement between cells. In addition, these effects are short-lived and difficult to reproduce, leading to a lack of adequate testing and analysis for applications used in wireless environments.

  13. Eleanor McElwee and the Formation of IEEE PCS

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Malone, Edward A.

    2015-01-01

    This article examines the historical professional project that created the Institute of Radio Engineers' Professional Group on Engineering Writing an Speech (IRE PGEWS)--now called the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers' Professional Communication Society (IEEE PCS)--and recounts the group's early history in detail. It also traces…

  14. Enhancing Student Performance Using Tablet Computers

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Enriquez, Amelito G.

    2010-01-01

    Tablet PCs have the potential to change the dynamics of classroom interaction through wireless communication coupled with pen-based computing technology that is suited for analyzing and solving engineering problems. This study focuses on how tablet PCs and wireless technology can be used during classroom instruction to create an Interactive…

  15. PCS optical fibers for an automobile data bus

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Clarkin, James P.; Timmerman, Richard J.; Stolte, Gary W.; Klein, Karl-Friedrich

    2005-02-01

    Optical fibers have been used for data communications in automobiles for several years. The fiber of choice thus far has been a plastic core/plastic clad optical fiber (POF) consisting of the plastic polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA). The POF fiber provides a low cost fiber with relatively easy termination. However, increasing demands regarding temperature performance, transmission losses and bandwidth have pushed the current limits of the POF fiber, and the automotive industry is now moving towards an optical fiber with a silica glass core/plastic clad (PCS). PCS optical fibers have been used successfully in industrial, medical, sensor, military and data communications systems for over two decades. The PCS fiber is now being adapted specifically for automotive use. In the following, the design criteria and design alternatives for the PCS as well as optical, thermal, and mechanical testing results for key automotive parameters are described. The fiber design tested was 200&mum synthetic silica core/230&mum fluoropolymer cladding/1510&mum nylon buffer. Key attributes such as 700 - 900 nm spectral attenuation, 125°C thermal soak, -40 to 125°C thermal cycling, bending losses, mechanical strength, termination capability, and cost are discussed and compared. Overall, a specifically designed PCS fiber is expected to be acceptable for the use in an automotive data bus, and will show improvement in optical transmission, temperature range and bandwidth. However, the final selection of buffer and jacket materials and properties will be most dependent on the selection of a reliable and economical termination method.

  16. Using Technology to Enhance Science Inquiry in an Outdoor Classroom

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Cantrell, Pamela; Knudson, Mark S.

    2006-01-01

    Participants in a science professional development field experience were surveyed for their perceptions of the impacts of integrating a wireless local area network (WLAN), pocket PCs, and laptops as tools for enhancing science inquiry. Pocket PCs and laptops were used for data collection and analysis and for communication of research results to…

  17. Personal Care Services Utilization by Individuals with Developmental Disabilities

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Harrington, Charlene; Kang, Taewoon

    2010-01-01

    This study examined factors associated with the use of personal care services (PCS) and the amount of authorized hours in California in 2004-2005. Of those Medicaid-eligible individuals with developmental disabilities living at home, 31% received PCS. When we controlled for client need, gender, and age, individuals who were Asian/Pacific…

  18. 47 CFR 24.249 - Payment issues.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... SERVICES Broadband PCS Policies Governing Microwave Relocation from the 1850-1990 Mhz Band § 24.249 Payment... directly to the PCS relocator or the voluntarily relocating microwave incumbent the amount owed within...

  19. 47 CFR 24.249 - Payment issues.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... SERVICES Broadband PCS Policies Governing Microwave Relocation from the 1850-1990 Mhz Band § 24.249 Payment... directly to the PCS relocator or the voluntarily relocating microwave incumbent the amount owed within...

  20. 47 CFR 24.249 - Payment issues.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... SERVICES Broadband PCS Policies Governing Microwave Relocation from the 1850-1990 Mhz Band § 24.249 Payment... directly to the PCS relocator or the voluntarily relocating microwave incumbent the amount owed within...

  1. 47 CFR 24.249 - Payment issues.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... SERVICES Broadband PCS Policies Governing Microwave Relocation from the 1850-1990 Mhz Band § 24.249 Payment... directly to the PCS relocator or the voluntarily relocating microwave incumbent the amount owed within...

  2. The role of health literacy in explaining the association between educational attainment and the use of out-of-hours primary care services in chronically ill people: a survey study.

    PubMed

    Jansen, Tessa; Rademakers, Jany; Waverijn, Geeke; Verheij, Robert; Osborne, Richard; Heijmans, Monique

    2018-05-31

    Low socioeconomic status (SES) is persistently associated with poor health and suboptimal use of healthcare services, and more unplanned healthcare use. Suboptimal use of emergency and acute healthcare services may increase health inequalities, due to late diagnosis or lack of continuity of care. Given that health literacy has been associated with healthcare utilisation and with education attainment, we sought to explore whether health literacy is related to the use of out-of-hours (OOH) Primary Care Services (PCSs). Additionally, we aimed to study whether and to what extent health literacy accounts for some of the association between education and OOH PSC use. A survey including measures of education attainment, health literacy (assessed by means of the Dutch version of the nine-dimension Health Literacy Questionnaire) and use of PCS was conducted among a sample of adults diagnosed with (any) somatic chronic condition in the Netherlands (response 76.3%, n = 1811). We conducted linear and logistic regression analyses to examine associations between education level and PCS use in the past year. We performed mediation analyses to assess whether the association between education and PCS use was (partly) explained by different aspects of health literacy. We adjusted the models for patient characteristics such as age and morbidity. Higher education attainment was associated with higher scores on the health literacy aspects Appraisal of health information, and Navigating the healthcare system. Additionally, appraisal and navigating the healthcare system partially accounted for educational differences in PCS use. Finally, higher appraisal of health information scores were associated with higher PCS utilisation. Several aspects of health literacy were demonstrated to relate to PCS use, and partly accounted for educational differences herein. Accordingly, developing health literacy within individuals or communities may help to reduce inappropriate PCS use among people with low education.

  3. A General Purpose Connections type CTI Server Based on SIP Protocol and Its Implementation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Watanabe, Toru; Koizumi, Hisao

    In this paper, we propose a general purpose connections type CTI (Computer Telephony Integration) server that provides various CTI services such as voice logging where the CTI server communicates with IP-PBX using the SIP (Session Initiation Protocol), and accumulates voice packets of external line telephone call flowing between an IP telephone for extension and a VoIP gateway connected to outside line networks. The CTI server realizes CTI services such as voice logging, telephone conference, or IVR (interactive voice response) with accumulating and processing voice packets sampled. Furthermore, the CTI server incorporates a web server function which can provide various CTI services such as a Web telephone directory via a Web browser to PCs, cellular telephones or smart-phones in mobile environments.

  4. Barriers to the Collaboration Between Hematologists and Palliative Care Teams on Relapse or Refractory Leukemia and Malignant Lymphoma Patients' Care: A Qualitative Study.

    PubMed

    Morikawa, Miharu; Shirai, Yuki; Ochiai, Ryota; Miyagawa, Kiyoshi

    2016-12-01

    Palliative care service (PCS) has been shown to be utilized less in patients with leukemia and malignant lymphoma than in those with solid tumors. Previous studies have suggested hematologists' limited awareness of PCS as one of the reason for low PCS referral in hematology. However, little is known about such an awareness and potential barriers to collaboration between hematologists and PCS. The present study aimed to assess ematologists and palliative care specialists' perception about the roles of the hospital-based palliative care team (HPCT) and the barriers to collaboration between hematologists and palliative care teams on relapse or refractory leukemia and malignant lymphoma patients' care MATERIALS AND METHODS: A qualitative study was conducted using semistructured interviews with hematologists and palliative care specialists recruited from a hospital that provides hematology and palliative care by the HPCT. Data were evaluated via content analysis. The study included 11 hematologists and 10 palliative care specialists. Our results revealed that they shared many common perceptions about the roles and expectations of the HPCT. Additionally, 7 categories of barriers to collaboration were identified, including not feeling the need to refer, the difficulty in referral timing, the lack of aggressive approach, the negative image of the HPCT, the need for hematologic malignancy-oriented management, the lack of communication, and others. We have identified hematologists' and palliative care specialists' perceptions of the HPCT's roles and the barriers to their collaboration. A better understanding of such barriers may lead to effective collaboration between hematologists and the HPCT. © The Author(s) 2015.

  5. The Asheville Project: short-term outcomes of a community pharmacy diabetes care program.

    PubMed

    Cranor, Carole W; Christensen, Dale B

    2003-01-01

    To assess short-term clinical, economic, and humanistic outcomes of pharmaceutical care services (PCS) for patients with diabetes in community pharmacies. Intention-to-treat, pre-post cohort-with-comparison group study. Twelve community pharmacies in Asheville, N.C. Eighty-five patients with diabetes who were employees, dependents, or retirees from two self-insured employers; community pharmacists who completed a diabetes certificate program and received reimbursement for PCS. Patients scheduled consultations with pharmacists over 7 to 9 months. Pharmacists provided education, self-monitored blood glucose (SMBG) meter training, clinical assessment, patient monitoring, follow-up, and referral. Group 1 patients began receiving PCS in March 1997, and group 2 patients began in March 1999. Change from baseline in the two employer groups in glycosylated hemoglobin (A1c) values, serum lipid concentrations, health-related quality of life (HRQOL), satisfaction with pharmacy services, and health care utilization and costs. Patients used SMBG meters at home, stored all readings, and brought their meters with them to 87% of the 317 PCS visits (3.7 visits per patient). Patients' A1c concentrations were significantly reduced, and their satisfaction with pharmacy services improved significantly. Patients experienced no change in HRQOL. From the payers' perspective, there was a significant dollars 52 per patient per month increase in diabetes costs for both groups, with PCS fees and diabetes prescriptions accounting for most of the increase. In contrast, both groups experienced a nonsignificant but economically important 29% decrease in nondiabetes costs and a 16% decrease in all-diagnosis costs. A clear temporal relationship was found between PCS and improved A1c, improved patient satisfaction with pharmacy services, and decreased all-diagnosis costs. Findings from this study demonstrate that pharmacists provided effective cognitive services and refute the idea that pharmacists must be certified diabetes educators to help patients with diabetes improve clinical outcomes.

  6. Exploring validation of a graphic symbol questionnaire to measure participation experiences of youth in activity settings.

    PubMed

    Batorowicz, Beata; King, Gillian; Vane, Freda; Pinto, Madhu; Raghavendra, Parimala

    2017-06-01

    Participation has a subjective and private dimension, and so it is important to hear directly from youth about their experiences in various activity settings, the places where they "do things" and interact with others. To meet this need, our team developed the Self-Reported Experiences of Activity Settings (SEAS) measure, which demonstrated good-to-excellent measurement properties. To address the needs of youth who could benefit from graphic symbol support, the SEAS-PCS TM , 1 was created. The purpose of this paper is to describe the development of SEAS-PCS and the preliminary study that explores the equivalency of the SEAS and SEAS-PCS. The SEAS and SEAS-PCS were compared in terms of the equivalency of meaning of stimulus items by 11 professionals and five adults who used augmentative and alternative communication, were familiar with PCS, and were fluent readers. Out of 22 items, 68% were rated as highly similar on a 5-point scale (M = 4.14; SD = .70; mdn = 4; range: 2.81-5.00). Subsequently, the 32% of the SEAS-PCS items that were rated below 4 were modified based on the participants' specific comments. Further work is required to validate the SEAS-PCS. The next step could involve exploring the views of youth who use AAC.

  7. Interactive Communication by Applying Contemporary Media in Higher Education

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Tatkovic, Nevenka; Ruzic, Maja

    2005-01-01

    Today society has become a multimedia society, turned towards new forms of communication, ready for changes and the new communicational challenges. The students, surrounded by PCs, mobile phones and ever so sophisticated software, videos, wireless sets and TVs, DVDs, satellite transmissions and "the media above all other media"--the…

  8. Family planning uses traditional theater in Mali.

    PubMed

    Schubert, J

    1988-01-01

    Mali's branch of the International Planned Parenthood Federation has found a vehicle that effectively conveys the idea of family planning through the use of contraception, a method that blends the country's cultural heritage and modern technology. Despite becoming the first sub-Saharan francophone country to promote family planning, Mali only counted 1% of its population using a modern method of contraception. So with the aid of The Johns Hopkins University/Population COmmunication Services (JHU/PCS), the Association Malienne pour la Protection et la Promotion de la Famille (AMPPF) developed several programs to promote contraception, but none were more successful than the Koteba Project, which used Mali's traditional theater form to communicate the message. While comical, the Koteba generally deals with social issues -- it informs and entertains. This particular Koteba told the story of two government employees, one with two wives and many children, the other with one wife and few children. The first one sees nothing but family problems: fighting wives and delinquent children. The second one, who had used family planning, enjoys a peaceful home. Upon hearing of his friend's successes with family planning, the tormented government employee becomes convinced of its needs, and persuades his wives to accompany him to a family planning clinic. Developed at a cost of approximately US $3000 and televised nationwide, the Koteba proved effective. A survey of 500 people attending an AMPPF clinic revealed that 1/4 of them remembered the program. With the success of the Koteba, JHU/PCS and AMPPF are now exploring other traditional channels of communication.

  9. Higher-order Peregrine combs and Peregrine walls for the variable-coefficient Lenells-Fokas equation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Zi-Qi; Wang, Xin; Wang, Lei; Sun, Wen-Rong; Qi, Feng-Hua

    2017-02-01

    In this paper, we study the variable-coefficient Lenells-Fokas (LF) model. Under large periodic modulations in the variable coefficients of the LF model, the generalized Akhmediev breathers develop into the breather multiple births (BMBs) from which we obtain the Peregrine combs (PCs). The PCs can be considered as the limiting case of the BMBs and be transformed into the Peregrine walls (PWs) with a specific amplitude of periodic modulation. We further investigate the spatiotemporal characteristics of the PCs and PWs analytically. Based on the second-order breather and rogue-wave solutions, we derive the corresponding higher-order structures (higher-order PCs and PWs) under proper periodic modulations. What is particularly noteworthy is that the second-order PC can be converted into the Peregrine pyramid which exhibits the higher amplitude and thickness. Our results could be helpful for the design of experiments in the optical fiber communications.

  10. Transition From NASA Space Communication Systems to Commerical Communication Products

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Ghazvinian, Farzad; Lindsey, William C.

    1994-01-01

    Transitioning from twenty-five years of space communication system architecting, engineering and development to creating and marketing of commercial communication system hardware and software products is no simple task for small, high-tech system engineering companies whose major source of revenue has been the U.S. Government. Yet, many small businesses are faced with this onerous and perplexing task. The purpose of this talk/paper is to present one small business (LinCom) approach to taking advantage of the systems engineering expertise and knowledge captured in physical neural networks and simulation software by supporting numerous National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the Department of Defense (DoD) projects, e.g., Space Shuttle, TDRSS, Space Station, DCSC, Milstar, etc. The innovative ingredients needed for a systems house to transition to a wireless communication system products house that supports personal communication services and networks (PCS and PCN) development in a global economy will be discussed. Efficient methods for using past government sponsored space system research and development to transition to VLSI communication chip set products will be presented along with notions of how synergy between government and industry can be maintained to benefit both parties.

  11. Prison hospice and pastoral care services in California.

    PubMed

    Linder, John F; Knauf, Keith; Enders, Sheila R; Meyers, Frederick J

    2002-12-01

    Hospice at the California Medical Facility (CMF) Vacaville dates back to the mid-1980s, when the acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) epidemic began to be felt throughout California's Department of Corrections. Vacaville has served for decades as the principal location for delivering health services to California's incarcerated men. Informal hospice-like services were inspired by Elisabeth Kubler-Ross and through inmate and community calls for more humane care for dying inmates. By 1990, efforts to formally establish a hospice were under way. In 1996, a 17-bed, state-licensed hospice began caring for dying inmates. An interdisciplinary team plans and delivers the care, meeting weekly to admit and review patients. The Pastoral Care Services (PCS) inmate volunteer program, with more than 50 trained participants, provides care and comfort to dying patients in hospice and to ill patients on the general medicine service. PCS volunteers perform many duties, including sitting vigil with actively dying inmates. Inmates enrolling in hospice have to forgo further curative therapy, consent to the program in writing, and have a 6-month or less survival prognosis; patients are not required to have a do-not-resuscitate (DNR) order, but are encouraged to consider one. Training for physicians, staff and PCS volunteers is provided by the University of California, Davis faculty of the West Coast Center for Palliative Education. Bereavement services are provided for PCS volunteers, other inmate "family" and staff. Family and friends of the deceased in the free community are followed by phone, mail, and primarily through referral to resources in their local area.

  12. EPA Facility Registry Service (FRS): PCS_NPDES

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    This web feature service contains location and facility identification information from EPA's Facility Registry Service (FRS) for the subset of facilities that link to the Permit Compliance System (PCS) or the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) module of the Integrated Compliance Information System (ICIS). PCS tracks NPDES surface water permits issued under the Clean Water Act. This system is being incrementally replaced by the NPDES module of ICIS. Under NPDES, all facilities that discharge pollutants from any point source into waters of the United States are required to obtain a permit. The permit will likely contain limits on what can be discharged, impose monitoring and reporting requirements, and include other provisions to ensure that the discharge does not adversely affect water quality. FRS identifies and geospatially locates facilities, sites or places subject to environmental regulations or of environmental interest. Using vigorous verification and data management procedures, FRS integrates facility data from EPA's national program systems, other federal agencies, and State and tribal master facility records and provides EPA with a centrally managed, single source of comprehensive and authoritative information on facilities. This data set contains the subset of FRS integrated facilities that link to NPDES facilities once the PCS or ICIS-NPDES data has been integrated into the FRS database. Additional information on FRS is available

  13. Improving Pupils' Mathematical Communication Abilities through Computer-Supported Reciprocal Peer Tutoring

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Yang, Euphony F. Y.; Chang, Ben; Cheng, Hercy N. H.; Chan, Tak-Wai

    2016-01-01

    This study examined how to foster pupils' mathematical communication abilities by using tablet PCs. Students were encouraged to generate math creations (including mathematical representation, solution, and solution explanation of word problems) as their teaching materials and reciprocally tutor classmates to increase opportunities for mathematical…

  14. 47 CFR 24.249 - Payment issues.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-10-01

    ... SERVICES Broadband PCS Policies Governing Microwave Relocation from the 1850-1990 Mhz Band § 24.249 Payment issues. (a) Timing. On the day that a PCS entity files its prior coordination notice (PCN) in accordance with § 101.103(d) of this chapter, it must file a copy of the PCN with the clearinghouse. The...

  15. Framework for Integrating Science Data Processing Algorithms Into Process Control Systems

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Mattmann, Chris A.; Crichton, Daniel J.; Chang, Albert Y.; Foster, Brian M.; Freeborn, Dana J.; Woollard, David M.; Ramirez, Paul M.

    2011-01-01

    A software framework called PCS Task Wrapper is responsible for standardizing the setup, process initiation, execution, and file management tasks surrounding the execution of science data algorithms, which are referred to by NASA as Product Generation Executives (PGEs). PGEs codify a scientific algorithm, some step in the overall scientific process involved in a mission science workflow. The PCS Task Wrapper provides a stable operating environment to the underlying PGE during its execution lifecycle. If the PGE requires a file, or metadata regarding the file, the PCS Task Wrapper is responsible for delivering that information to the PGE in a manner that meets its requirements. If the PGE requires knowledge of upstream or downstream PGEs in a sequence of executions, that information is also made available. Finally, if information regarding disk space, or node information such as CPU availability, etc., is required, the PCS Task Wrapper provides this information to the underlying PGE. After this information is collected, the PGE is executed, and its output Product file and Metadata generation is managed via the PCS Task Wrapper framework. The innovation is responsible for marshalling output Products and Metadata back to a PCS File Management component for use in downstream data processing and pedigree. In support of this, the PCS Task Wrapper leverages the PCS Crawler Framework to ingest (during pipeline processing) the output Product files and Metadata produced by the PGE. The architectural components of the PCS Task Wrapper framework include PGE Task Instance, PGE Config File Builder, Config File Property Adder, Science PGE Config File Writer, and PCS Met file Writer. This innovative framework is really the unifying bridge between the execution of a step in the overall processing pipeline, and the available PCS component services as well as the information that they collectively manage.

  16. A Method of Predicting Queuing at Library Online PCs

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Beranek, Lea G.

    2006-01-01

    On-campus networked personal computer (PC) usage at La Trobe University Library was surveyed during September 2005. The survey's objectives were to confirm peak usage times, to measure some of the relevant parameters of online PC usage, and to determine the effect that 24 new networked PCs had on service quality. The survey found that clients…

  17. Detection of bacterial contamination in platelet concentrates by a sensitive flow cytometric assay (BactiFlow): a multicentre validation study.

    PubMed

    Vollmer, T; Dreier, J; Schottstedt, V; Bux, J; Tapernon, K; Sibrowski, W; Kleesiek, K; Knabbe, C

    2012-08-01

    Bacterial contamination of platelet concentrates (PCs) still represents an ongoing risk. As a result of septic complications, particularly observed with older PCs, the shelf life of PCs has been reduced in Germany to 4 days. In this study, bacterial screening of PCs by BactiFlow (BF) flow cytometry was introduced in three German blood services to evaluate the robustness and applicability of the assay. Results were used to discuss the potential for the extension of PC shelf life to 5 days. A total of 1956 PCs were tested on days 4 or 5+ after PC production using the BF, whereas the BacT/Alert culture system served as reference method. Two PCs were confirmed positive by culture only and were identified as Propionibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus species. Two PCs were confirmed positive for Streptococcus mitis by BF and culture. Additionally, two PCs were culture-positive only in one culture bottle (aerobic: S. mitis and anaerobic: S. hominis). Retrospective analysis of bacterial growth kinetics provide the indication that corresponding bacterial titres were most likely below the BF analytical detection limit (<150 CFU mL(-1) ) and had probably no transfusion relevance. All remaining specimens were tested negative. Testing of PCs by BF was successfully implemented. The BF proved sufficient as a rapid screening method to improve PC safety. This study further provides data supporting the extension of PC shelf life to 5 days after negative BF testing on day 4. © 2012 The Authors. Transfusion Medicine © 2012 British Blood Transfusion Society.

  18. Tablet PCs as Instructional Tools in English as a Foreign Language Education

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Savas, Perihan

    2014-01-01

    The main goal of the study presented in this paper was to investigate the perceptions of 40 pre-service English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teachers about the effectiveness of Tablet PCs as instructional tools in EFL classes. The study was conducted at a state university in Turkey and the data collection was mainly done via two questionnaires.…

  19. Exploring the factors that influence medication rating Web sites value to older adults: A cross-sectional study.

    PubMed

    AlRuthia, Yazed Sulaiman H; Hong, Song Hee; Graff, Carolyn; Kocak, Mehmet; Solomon, David; Nolly, Robert

    2016-01-01

    In this cross-sectional study, we evaluated factors that affected the perceived value of medication rating Web sites to 284 people aged ≥ 60 years who were taking prescription medications. The Patient Reviews of Medication Experience (PROMEX) questionnaire score, which assessed participant opinions about the value of online reviews of medications, was positively associated with preference to share health care decision making with the health care provider and negatively associated with the Physical Component Summary (PCS-12) and Mental Component Summary scores of the Short Form 12 health survey. The Primary Care Assessment Survey Communication score, which measured participant satisfaction with the communication from the health care provider, was positively associated with PCS-12 and health literacy. In summary, older adults who had poor physical and mental health-related quality of life were more likely to believe that medication rating Web sites were useful and helpful in facilitating communication with health care providers. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  20. Federal Emergency Management Information System (FEMIS) system administration guide, version 1.4.5

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

    Arp, J.A.; Burnett, R.A.; Carter, R.J.

    The Federal Emergency Management Information Systems (FEMIS) is an emergency management planning and response tool that was developed by the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) under the direction of the US Army Chemical Biological Defense Command. The FEMIS System Administration Guide provides information necessary for the system administrator to maintain the FEMIS system. The FEMIS system is designed for a single Chemical Stockpile Emergency Preparedness Program (CSEPP) site that has multiple Emergency Operations Centers (EOCs). Each EOC has personal computers (PCs) that emergency planners and operations personnel use to do their jobs. These PCs are connected via a local areamore » network (LAN) to servers that provide EOC-wide services. Each EOC is interconnected to other EOCs via a Wide Area Network (WAN). Thus, FEMIS is an integrated software product that resides on client/server computer architecture. The main body of FEMIS software, referred to as the FEMIS Application Software, resides on the PC client(s) and is directly accessible to emergency management personnel. The remainder of the FEMIS software, referred to as the FEMIS Support Software, resides on the UNIX server. The Support Software provides the communication, data distribution, and notification functionality necessary to operate FEMIS in a networked, client/server environment. The UNIX server provides an Oracle relational database management system (RDBMS) services, ARC/INFO GIS (optional) capabilities, and basic file management services. PNNL developed utilities that reside on the server include the Notification Service, the Command Service that executes the evacuation model, and AutoRecovery. To operate FEMIS, the Application Software must have access to a site specific FEMIS emergency management database. Data that pertains to an individual EOC`s jurisdiction is stored on the EOC`s local server. Information that needs to be accessible to all EOCs is automatically distributed by the FEMIS database to the other EOCs at the site.« less

  1. [Social counseling in outpatient cancer counseling centers : Offers and use by advice-seekers].

    PubMed

    Ernst, Jochen; Mehnert, Anja; Weis, Joachim; Faust, Tanja; Giesler, Jürgen M; Roick, Julia

    2016-11-01

    Outpatient psychosocial cancer care has gained importance in recent years and psychosocial counselling services (PCS) offer a broad spectrum of counselling interventions. Yet there is no published research on PCS legal counselling services. This study investigated the range of issues addressed by legal counselling and their relationship with characteristics of advice seekers and counsellors. We analyzed the records of 21 PCS funded by the German Cancer Aid (DKH) including 5203 advice seekers (80 % patients, 20 % others including friends and family; age ∅ 54 years; 24 % male) in 20,947 counselling sessions. We calculated descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression analyses (legal counselling: yes/no). Fifty-five percent of counselling seekers received legal counselling and 28 % approached the PCS exclusively for legal counselling. The proportion of people seeking legal advice ranged from 15 to 87 % between counselling centers. The most common topics during legal counselling were medical rehabilitation programs (57 %) and disability law (43 %). Counselling occurred in a single session in 68 % of cases and was mostly sought by older and unemployed persons with a recent diagnosis. Legal counselling made up 18 % of counselling time. Legal advice was mostly given by social workers (71 %). Legal counselling is a major part of psychosocial care services. Our results reveal large differences between counselling centers. Further research on quality of care and efficacy of legal counseling is needed.

  2. Vascular Variations Associated with Intracranial Aneurysms.

    PubMed

    Orakdogen, Metin; Emon, Selin Tural; Somay, Hakan; Engin, Taner; Is, Merih; Hakan, Tayfun

    2017-01-01

    To investigate the vascular variations in patients with intracranial aneurysm in circle of Willis. We used the data on 128 consecutive intracranial aneurysm cases. Cerebral angiography images were analyzed retrospectively. Arteries were grouped as anterior cerebral arterial system (ACS), posterior cerebral arterial system (PCS) and middle cerebral arterial system (MCS) for grouping vascular variations. Lateralization, being single/multiple, gender; and also any connection with accompanying aneurysms" number, localization, dimension, whether bleeding/incidental aneurysm has been inspected. Variations were demonstrated in 57.8% of the cases. The most common variation was A1 variation (34.4%). The rate of variations was 36.7%, 24.2% and 10.2% respectively in ACS, PCS and MCS. MCS variations were significantly higher in males. Anterior communicating artery (ACoA) aneurysm observance rates were significantly higher and posterior communicating artery (PCoA) aneurysm and middle cerebral artery (MCA) aneurysm observance rates were significantly lower when compared to "no ACS variation detected" cases. In "PCS variation detected" cases, PCoA aneurysm observance rates and coexistence of multiple variations were significantly higher. The rate of vascular variations in patients with aneurysms was 57.8%. Arterial hypoplasia and aplasia were the most common variations. ACS was the most common region that variations were located in; they were mostly detected on the right side. Coexistence of ACoA aneurysm was higher than PCoA and MCA aneurysms. In the PCS variations group, PCoA aneurysms were the most common aneurysms that accompanying the variation and multiple variations were more common than in the other two groups. The variations in MCS were most common in males.

  3. The cloud services innovation platform- enabling service-based environmental modelling using infrastructure-as-a-service cloud computing

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    Service oriented architectures allow modelling engines to be hosted over the Internet abstracting physical hardware configuration and software deployments from model users. Many existing environmental models are deployed as desktop applications running on user's personal computers (PCs). Migration ...

  4. Trends in Post-Concussive Symptom Reporting Following Mild Traumatic Brain Injury in Operation Iraqi Freedom

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2011-04-01

    complaints on the PDHA were examined and included pain (headache, back, joint, muscle), memory problems, sleep problems, and tinnitus . The PDHA also... aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden, to Washington Headquarters Services, Directorate for...PCS). 6-8 Common PCS symptoms include headache, tinnitus , sleep problems, chronic pain and cognitive deficits. 8 In 2004, the World Health

  5. Federal Emergency Management Information System (FEMIS) System Administration Guide for FEMIS Version 1.4.6

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

    Arp, J.A.; Bower, J.C.; Burnett, R.A.

    The Federal Emergency Management Information System (FEMIS) is an emergency management planning and response tool that was developed by the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) under the direction of the U.S. Army Chemical Biological Defense Command. The FEMIS System Administration Guide provides information necessary for the system administrator to maintain the FEMIS system. The FEMIS system is designed for a single Chemical Stockpile Emergency Preparedness Program (CSEPP) site that has multiple Emergency Operations Centers (EOCs). Each EOC has personal computers (PCs) that emergency planners and operations personnel use to do their jobs. These PCs are corrected via a local areamore » network (LAN) to servers that provide EOC-wide services. Each EOC is interconnected to other EOCs via a Wide Area Network (WAN). Thus, FEMIS is an integrated software product that resides on client/server computer architecture. The main body of FEMIS software, referred to as the FEMIS Application Software, resides on the PC client(s) and is directly accessible to emergency management personnel. The remainder of the FEMIS software, referred to as the FEMIS Support Software, resides on the UNIX server. The Support Software provides the communication data distribution and notification functionality necessary to operate FEMIS in a networked, client/server environment.« less

  6. Federal Emergency Management Information System (FEMIS), Installation Guide for FEMIS 1.4.6

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

    Arp, J.A.; Burnett, R.A.; Carter, R.J.

    The Federal Emergency Management Information System (FEMIS) is an emergency management planning and response tool that was developed by the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) under the direction of the U.S. Army Chemical Biological Defense Command. The FEMIS System Administration Guide provides information necessary for the system administrator to maintain the FEMIS system. The FEMIS system is designed for a single Chemical Stockpile Emergency Preparedness Program (CSEPP) site that has multiple Emergency Operations Centers (EOCs). Each EOC has personal computers (PCs) that emergency planners and operations personnel use to do their jobs. These PCs are corrected via a local areamore » network (LAN) to servers that provide EOC-wide services. Each EOC is interconnected to other EOCs via a Wide Area Network (WAN). Thus, FEMIS is an integrated software product that resides on client/server computer architecture. The main body of FEMIS software, referred to as the FEMIS Application Software, resides on the PC client(s) and is directly accessible to emergency management personnel. The remainder of the FEMIS software, referred to as the FEMIS Support Software, resides on the UNIX server. The Support Software provides the communication data distribution and notification functionality necessary to operate FEMIS in a networked, client/server environment.« less

  7. Federal Emergency Management Information System (FEMIS) system administration guide. Version 1.4

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

    Arp, J.A.; Burnett, R.A.; Downing, T.R.

    The Federal Emergency Management Information System (FEMIS) is an emergency management planning and analysis tool that was developed by the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) under the direction of the US Army Chemical Biological Defense Command. The FEMIS System Administration Guide defines FEMIS hardware and software requirements and gives instructions for installing the FEMIS software package. This document also contains information on the following: software installation for the FEMIS data servers, communication server, mail server, and the emergency management workstations; distribution media loading and FEMIS installation validation and troubleshooting; and system management of FEMIS users, login privileges, and usage. Themore » system administration utilities (tools), available in the FEMIS client software, are described for user accounts and site profile. This document also describes the installation and use of system and database administration utilities that will assist in keeping the FEMIS system running in an operational environment. The FEMIS system is designed for a single Chemical Stockpile Emergency Preparedness Program (CSEPP) site that has multiple Emergency Operations Centers (EOCs). Each EOC has personal computers (PCs) that emergency planners and operations personnel use to do their jobs. These PCs are connected via a local area network (LAN) to servers that provide EOC-wide services. Each EOC is interconnected to other EOCs via telecommunications links.« less

  8. Federal Emergency Management Information System (FEMIS) Data Management Guide for FEMIS Version 1.4.6

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

    Angel, L.K.; Bower, J.C.; Burnett, R.A.

    1999-06-29

    The Federal Emergency Management Information System (FEMIS) is an emergency management planning and response tool that was developed by the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) under the direction of the U.S. Army Chemical Biological Defense Command. The FEMIS System Administration Guide provides information necessary for the system administrator to maintain the FEMIS system. The FEMIS system is designed for a single Chemical Stockpile Emergency Preparedness Program (CSEPP) site that has multiple Emergency Operations Centers (EOCs). Each EOC has personal computers (PCs) that emergency planners and operations personnel use to do their jobs. These PCs are corrected via a local areamore » network (LAN) to servers that provide EOC-wide services. Each EOC is interconnected to other EOCs via a Wide Area Network (WAN). Thus, FEMIS is an integrated software product that resides on client/server computer architecture. The main body of FEMIS software, referred to as the FEMIS Application Software, resides on the PC client(s) and is directly accessible to emergency management personnel. The remainder of the FEMIS software, referred to as the FEMIS Support Software, resides on the UNIX server. The Support Software provides the communication data distribution and notification functionality necessary to operate FEMIS in a networked, client/server environment.« less

  9. Effects of animation on naming and identification across two graphic symbol sets representing verbs and prepositions.

    PubMed

    Schlosser, Ralf W; Koul, Rajinder; Shane, Howard; Sorce, James; Brock, Kristofer; Harmon, Ashley; Moerlein, Dorothy; Hearn, Emilia

    2014-10-01

    The effects of animation on naming and identification of graphic symbols for verbs and prepositions were studied in 2 graphic symbol sets in preschoolers. Using a 2 × 2 × 2 × 3 completely randomized block design, preschoolers across three age groups were randomly assigned to combinations of symbol set (Autism Language Program [ALP] Animated Graphics or Picture Communication Symbols [PCS]), symbol format (animated or static), and word class (verbs or prepositions). Children were asked to name symbols and to identify a target symbol from an array given the spoken label. Animated symbols were more readily named than static symbols, although this was more pronounced for verbs than for prepositions. ALP symbols were named more accurately than PCS in particular with prepositions. Animation did not facilitate identification. ALP symbols for prepositions were identified better than PCS, but there was no difference for verbs. Finally, older children guessed and identified symbols more effectively than younger children. Animation improves the naming of graphic symbols for verbs. For prepositions, ALP symbols are named more accurately and are more readily identifiable than PCS. Naming and identifying symbols are learned skills that develop over time. Limitations and future research directions are discussed.

  10. P.C. disposal decisions: a banking industry case study

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shah, Sejal P.; Sarkis, Joseph

    2002-02-01

    The service industry and the manufacturing industry are interlinked in a supply chain situation. Part of the effectiveness of some manufacturing industry environmental performance based on remanufacturing and recycling is dependent on service industry decisions. In the information technology arena, personal computers (PCs) are the hard equipment of the service industry. The end-of-life decisions made by the service industry, and in this case the banking industry will have implications for the amount of systems within the waste or reverse logistics stream for manufacturers. Looking at some of the issues (and presenting a model for evaluation) related to decision making concerning end-of-life disposition for PCs is something this paper investigates. The analytical hierarchy process (AHP) is applied in this circumstance. The development of the model, its application, and results, provide the basis for much of the discussion in this paper.

  11. OPSAID Initial Design and Testing Report.

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

    Hurd, Steven A.; Stamp, Jason Edwin; Chavez, Adrian R.

    2007-11-01

    Process Control System (PCS) security is critical to our national security. Yet, there are a number of technological, economic, and educational impediments to PCS owners implementing effective security on their systems. OPSAID (Open PCS Security Architecture for Interoperable Design), a project sponsored by the US Department of Energy's Office of Electricity Delivery and Reliability, aims to address this issue through developing and testing an open source architecture for PCS security. Sandia National Laboratories, along with a team of PCS vendors and owners, have developed and tested this PCS security architecture. This report describes their progress to date.2 AcknowledgementsThe authors acknowledgemore » and thank their colleagues for their assistance with the OPSAID project.Sandia National Laboratories: Alex Berry, Charles Perine, Regis Cassidy, Bryan Richardson, Laurence PhillipsTeumim Technical, LLC: Dave TeumimIn addition, the authors are greatly indebted to the invaluable help of the members of the OPSAID Core Team. Their assistance has been critical to the success and industry acceptance of the OPSAID project.Schweitzer Engineering Laboratory: Rhett Smith, Ryan Bradetich, Dennis GammelTelTone: Ori Artman Entergy: Dave Norton, Leonard Chamberlin, Mark AllenThe authors would like to acknowledge that the work that produced the results presented in this paper was funded by the U.S. Department of Energy/Office of Electricity Delivery and Energy Reliability (DOE/OE) as part of the National SCADA Test Bed (NSTB) Program. Executive SummaryProcess control systems (PCS) are very important for critical infrastructure and manufacturing operations, yet cyber security technology in PCS is generally poor. The OPSAID (Open PCS (Process Control System) Security Architecture for Interoperable Design) program is intended to address these security shortcomings by accelerating the availability and deployment of comprehensive security technology for PCS, both for existing PCS and inherently secure PCS in the future. All activities are closely linked to industry outreach and advisory efforts.Generally speaking, the OPSAID project is focused on providing comprehensive security functionality to PCS that communicate using IP. This is done through creating an interoperable PCS security architecture and developing a reference implementation, which is tested extensively for performance and reliability.This report first provides background on the PCS security problem and OPSAID, followed by goals and objectives of the project. The report also includes an overview of the results, including the OPSAID architecture and testing activities, along with results from industry outreach activities. Conclusion and recommendation sections follow. Finally, a series of appendices provide more detailed information regarding architecture and testing activities.Summarizing the project results, the OPSAID architecture was defined, which includes modular security functionality and corresponding component modules. The reference implementation, which includes the collection of component modules, was tested extensively and proved to provide more than acceptable performance in a variety of test scenarios. The primary challenge in implementation and testing was correcting initial configuration errors.OPSAID industry outreach efforts were very successful. A small group of industry partners were extensively involved in both the design and testing of OPSAID. Conference presentations resulted in creating a larger group of potential industry partners.Based upon experience implementing and testing OPSAID, as well as through collecting industry feedback, the OPSAID project has done well and is well received. Recommendations for future work include further development of advanced functionality, refinement of interoperability guidance, additional laboratory and field testing, and industry outreach that includes PCS owner education. 4 5 --This page intentionally left blank --« less

  12. PCs: Key to the Future. Business Center Provides Sound Skills and Good Attitudes.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Pay, Renee W.

    1991-01-01

    The Advanced Computing/Management Training Program at Jordan Technical Center (Sandy, Utah) simulates an automated office to teach five sets of skills: computer architecture and operating systems, word processing, data processing, communications skills, and management principles. (SK)

  13. Electrical detection and analysis of surface acoustic wave in line-defect two-dimensional piezoelectric phononic crystals

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cai, Feida; Li, Honglang; Tian, Yahui; Ke, Yabing; Cheng, Lina; Lou, Wei; He, Shitang

    2018-03-01

    Line-defect piezoelectric phononic crystals (PCs) show good potential applications in surface acoustic wave (SAW) MEMS devices for RF communication systems. To analyze the SAW characteristics in line-defect two-dimensional (2D) piezoelectric PCs, optical methods are commonly used. However, the optical instruments are complex and expensive, whereas conventional electrical methods can only measure SAW transmission of the whole device and lack spatial resolution. In this paper, we propose a new electrical experimental method with multiple receiving interdigital transducers (IDTs) to detect the SAW field distribution, in which an array of receiving IDTs of equal aperture was used to receive the SAW. For this new method, SAW delay lines with perfect and line-defect 2D Al/128°YXLiNbO3 piezoelectric PCs on the transmitting path were designed and fabricated. The experimental results showed that the SAW distributed mainly in the line-defect region, which agrees with the theoretical results.

  14. Introducing an electronic Palliative Care Summary (ePCS) in Scotland: patient, carer and professional perspectives.

    PubMed

    Hall, Susan; Murchie, Peter; Campbell, Christine; Murray, Scott A

    2012-10-01

    An electronic Palliative Care Summary (ePCS) is currently being implemented throughout Scotland to provide out-of-hours (OOH) staff with up-to-date summaries of medical history, patient understanding and wishes, medications and decisions regarding treatment of patients requiring palliative care: automatic twice daily updates of information from GP records to a central electronic repository are available to OOH services. To identify key issues related to the introduction of ePCS from primary care and OOH staff, to identify facilitators and barriers to their use, to explore the experiences of patients and carers and to make recommendations for improvements. Twenty-two semi-structured interviews were carried out with a purposive sample of health professionals [practice nurses (3 interviews), GPs (12 interviews), a practice manager (1 interview) from practices using different computing software systems] and patients and/or carers (6 interviews for whom an ePCS had been completed). Interviews were digitally recorded, transcribed and analysed thematically. Patients and carers were reassured that OOH staff were informed about their current circumstances. OOH staff considered the ePCS allowed them to be better informed in decision making and in carrying out home visits. GPs viewed the introduction of ePCSs to have benefits for in-hours structures of care including advance care planning. No interviewee expressed concern about confidentiality. Barriers raised related to the introduction of new technology including unfamiliarity with the process, limited time and information technology skills. The ePCS has clear potential to improve patient care although several implementation issues and technical problems require to be addressed first to enable this. GPs and community nurses should identify more patients with malignant and non-malignant illnesses for completion of the ePCS.

  15. Case management for frail older adults through tablet computers and Skype.

    PubMed

    Berner, Jessica; Anderberg, Peter; Rennemark, Mikael; Berglund, Johan

    2016-12-01

    Frail older adults are high consumers of medical care due to their age and multiple chronic conditions. Regular contact with a case manager has been proven to increase well-being of frail older adults and reduce their number of health-care visits. Skype calls through tablet PCs can offer easier communication. This paper examines frail older adults' use of tablet computers and Skype, with their case managers. Interviews were conducted on 15 frail older adults. A content analysis was used to structure and analyze the data. The results indicate that tablet computers were experienced in a positive way for most frail older adults. Conflicting feelings did emerge, however, as to whether the frail elderly would adopt this in the long run. Skype needs to be tested further as to whether this is a good solution for communication with their case managers. Strong technical support and well-functioning technology are important elements to facilitate use. Using Skype and tablet PCs do have potential for frail older adults, but need to be tested further.

  16. Diagnostic methods for platelet bacteria screening: current status and developments.

    PubMed

    Störmer, Melanie; Vollmer, Tanja

    2014-02-01

    Bacterial contamination of blood components and the prevention of transfusion-associated bacterial infection still remains a major challenge in transfusion medicine. Over the past few decades, a significant reduction in the transmission of viral infections has been achieved due to the introduction of mandatory virus screening. Platelet concentrates (PCs) represent one of the highest risks for bacterial infection. This is due to the required storage conditions for PCs in gas-permeable containers at room temperature with constant agitation, which support bacterial proliferation from low contamination levels to high titers. In contrast to virus screening, since 1997 in Germany bacterial testing of PCs is only performed as a routine quality control or, since 2008, to prolong the shelf life to 5 days. In general, bacterial screening of PCs by cultivation methods is implemented by the various blood services. Although these culturing systems will remain the gold standard, the significance of rapid methods for screening for bacterial contamination has increased over the last few years. These new methods provide powerful tools for increasing the bacterial safety of blood components. This article summarizes the course of policies and provisions introduced to increase bacterial safety of blood components in Germany. Furthermore, we give an overview of the different diagnostic methods for bacterial screening of PCs and their current applicability in routine screening processes.

  17. A comparison of two approaches for representing AAC vocabulary for young children.

    PubMed

    Worah, Smita; McNaughton, David; Light, Janice; Benedek-Wood, Elizabeth

    2015-01-01

    Young children with complex communication needs often experience difficulty in using currently available graphic symbol systems as a method of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). Information on young children's performance with graphic representations based on this population's conceptualizations of these vocabulary items may assist in the development of more effective AAC systems. This study developed Developmentally Appropriate Symbols (DAS) for 10 early emerging vocabulary concepts using procedures designed to address both conceptual and appeal issues for graphic representations for young children. Using a post-test only, between-subjects comparison group design, 40 typically-developing 2.5-3.5-year-old children were randomly assigned to receive a brief training in either of two different types of graphic symbol sets: (a) DAS or (b) Picture Communication Symbols (PCS), a, commercially available graphic symbol system. Results of a two sample independent t-test provide evidence that children in the DAS condition correctly identified more symbols than children trained with the PCS symbols. There was no evidence of a preference between the symbol sets. The results provide support for careful consideration of children's use and understanding of language in developing AAC systems for young children.

  18. Multi-kanban mechanism for personal computer disassembly

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Udomsawat, Gun; Gupta, Surendra M.; Kamarthi, Sagar V.

    2004-12-01

    The use of personal computers (PCs) continues to increase every year. According to a 1999 figure, 50 percent of all US households owned PCs, a figure that continues to rise every year. With continuous development of sophisticated software, PCs are becoming increasingly powerful. In addition, the price of a PC continues to steadily decline. Furthermore, the typical life of a PC in the workplace is approximately two to three years while in the home it is three to five years. As these PCs become obsolete, they are replaced and the old PCs are disposed of. It is estimated that between 14 and 20 million PCs are retired annually in the US. While 20 to 30% of the units may be resold, the others are discarded. These discards represent a significant potential source of lead for the waste stream. In some communities, waste cathode ray tubes (CRTs) represent the second largest source of lead in the waste stream after vehicular lead acid batteries. PCs are, therefore, not suitable for dumping in landfills. Besides, several components of a PC can be reused and then there are other valuable materials that can also be harvested. And with the advent of product stewardship, product recovery is the best solution for manufacturers. Disassembly line is perhaps the most suitable set up for disassembling PCs. However, planning and scheduling of disassembly on a disassembly line is complicated. In this paper, we discuss some of the complications including product arrival, demand arrival, inventory fluctuation and production control mechanisms. We then show how to overcome them by implementing a multi-kanban mechanism in the PC disassembly line setting. The multi-kanban mechanism relies on dynamic routing of kanbans according to the state of the system. We investigate the multi-kanban mechanism using simulation and demonstrate that this mechanism is superior to the traditional push system in terms of controlling the system"s inventory while maintaining a decent customer service level.

  19. Effects of hyperbaric oxygen on symptoms and quality of life among service members with persistent postconcussion symptoms: a randomized clinical trial.

    PubMed

    Miller, R Scott; Weaver, Lindell K; Bahraini, Nazanin; Churchill, Susan; Price, Robert C; Skiba, Virginia; Caviness, James; Mooney, Scott; Hetzell, Brian; Liu, Jun; Deru, Kayla; Ricciardi, Richard; Fracisco, Susan; Close, Nicole C; Surrett, Gerald W; Bartos, Corinna; Ryan, Margaret; Brenner, Lisa A

    2015-01-01

    Improvement has been anecdotally observed in patients with persistent postconcussion symptoms (PCS) after mild traumatic brain injury following treatment with hyperbaric oxygen (HBO). The effectiveness of HBO as an adjunctive treatment for PCS is unknown to date. To compare the safety of and to estimate the efficacy for symptomatic outcomes from standard PCS care alone, care supplemented with HBO, or a sham procedure. Multicenter, double-blind, sham-controlled clinical trial of 72 military service members with ongoing symptoms at least 4 months after mild traumatic brain injury enrolled at military hospitals in Colorado, North Carolina, California, and Georgia between April 26, 2011, and August 24, 2012. Assessments occurred before randomization, at the midpoint, and within 1 month after completing the interventions. Routine PCS care was provided in specialized clinics. In addition, participants were randomized 1:1:1 to 40 HBO sessions administered at 1.5 atmospheres absolute (ATA), 40 sham sessions consisting of room air at 1.2 ATA, or no supplemental chamber procedures. The Rivermead Post-Concussion Symptoms Questionnaire (RPQ) served as the primary outcome measure. A change score of at least 2 points on the RPQ-3 subscale (range, 0-12) was defined as clinically significant. Change scores from baseline were calculated for the RPQ-3 and for the total RPQ. Secondary measures included additional patient-reported outcomes and automated neuropsychometric testing. On average, participants had sustained 3 lifetime mild traumatic brain injuries; the most recent occurred 23 months before enrollment. No differences were observed between groups for improvement of at least 2 points on the RPQ-3 subscale (25% in the no intervention group, 52% in the HBO group, and 33% in the sham group; P = .24). Compared with the no intervention group (mean change score, 0.5; 95% CI, -4.8 to 5.8; P = .91), both groups undergoing supplemental chamber procedures showed improvement in symptoms on the RPQ (mean change score, 5.4; 95% CI, -0.5 to 11.3; P = .008 in the HBO group and 7.0; 95% CI, 1.0-12.9; P = .02 in the sham group). No difference between the HBO group and the sham group was observed (P = .70). Chamber sessions were well tolerated. Among service members with persistent PCS, HBO showed no benefits over sham compressions. Both intervention groups demonstrated improved outcomes compared with PCS care alone. This finding suggests that the observed improvements were not oxygen mediated but may reflect nonspecific improvements related to placebo effects. clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01306968.

  20. Forest Service patrol captain and patrol commanders report: nationwide study

    Treesearch

    Deborah J. Chavez; Joanne F. Tynon

    2007-01-01

    This is the third in a series of studies to evaluate perceptions of USDA Forest Service law enforcement personnel of the roles, responsibilities, and issues entailed in their jobs. An e-mail survey was administered to the 79 Forest Service patrol captains and patrol commanders (PCs) across the United States. Seventy completed and returned the questionnaire....

  1. European health telematics networks for positron emission tomography

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kontaxakis, George; Pozo, Miguel Angel; Ohl, Roland; Visvikis, Dimitris; Sachpazidis, Ilias; Ortega, Fernando; Guerra, Pedro; Cheze-Le Rest, Catherine; Selby, Peter; Pan, Leyun; Diaz, Javier; Dimitrakopoulou-Strauss, Antonia; Santos, Andres; Strauss, Ludwig; Sakas, Georgios

    2006-12-01

    A pilot network of positron emission tomography centers across Europe has been setup employing telemedicine services. The primary aim is to bring all PET centers in Europe (and beyond) closer, by integrating advanced medical imaging technology and health telematics networks applications into a single, easy to operate health telematics platform, which allows secure transmission of medical data via a variety of telecommunications channels and fosters the cooperation between professionals in the field. The platform runs on PCs with Windows 2000/XP and incorporates advanced techniques for image visualization, analysis and fusion. The communication between two connected workstations is based on a TCP/IP connection secured by secure socket layers and virtual private network or jabber protocols. A teleconsultation can be online (with both physicians physically present) or offline (via transmission of messages which contain image data and other information). An interface sharing protocol enables online teleconsultations even over low bandwidth connections. This initiative promotes the cooperation and improved communication between nuclear medicine professionals, offering options for second opinion and training. It permits physicians to remotely consult patient data, even if they are away from the physical examination site.

  2. Burbank works on the EPIC in the Node 2

    NASA Image and Video Library

    2012-02-28

    ISS030-E-114433 (29 Feb. 2012) --- In the International Space Station?s Destiny laboratory, NASA astronaut Dan Burbank, Expedition 30 commander, upgrades Multiplexer/Demultiplexer (MDM) computers and Portable Computer System (PCS) laptops and installs the Enhanced Processor & Integrated Communications (EPIC) hardware in the Payload 1 (PL-1) MDM.

  3. 47 CFR 1.20007 - Additional assistance capability requirements for wireline, cellular, and PCS telecommunications...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-10-01

    ... under surveillance maintain a circuit connection to the call. (4) Destination. A party or place to which... features to support lawfully authorized electronic surveillance, and specifies interfaces necessary to... provide to a LEA the assistance capability requirements regarding wire and electronic communications and...

  4. 47 CFR 1.20007 - Additional assistance capability requirements for wireline, cellular, and PCS telecommunications...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... under surveillance maintain a circuit connection to the call. (4) Destination. A party or place to which... features to support lawfully authorized electronic surveillance, and specifies interfaces necessary to... provide to a LEA the assistance capability requirements regarding wire and electronic communications and...

  5. 47 CFR 1.20007 - Additional assistance capability requirements for wireline, cellular, and PCS telecommunications...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... under surveillance maintain a circuit connection to the call. (4) Destination. A party or place to which... features to support lawfully authorized electronic surveillance, and specifies interfaces necessary to... provide to a LEA the assistance capability requirements regarding wire and electronic communications and...

  6. A pilot randomised controlled trial of a periodised resistance training and protein supplementation intervention in prostate cancer survivors on androgen deprivation therapy

    PubMed Central

    Dorff, Tanya B; Todd Schroeder, E; Salem, George J; Lane, Christianne J; Rice, Judd C; Gross, Mitchell E; Dieli-Conwright, Christina M

    2017-01-01

    Introduction Prostate cancer survivors (PCS) receiving androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) experience deleterious side effects such as unfavourable changes in cardiometabolic factors that lead to sarcopenic obesity and metabolic syndrome (MetS). While loss of lean body mass (LBM) compromises muscular strength and quality of life, MetS increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and may influence cancer recurrence. Exercise can improve LBM and strength, and may serve as an alternative to the pharmacological management of MetS in PCS on ADT. Prior exercise interventions in PCS on ADT have been effective at enhancing strength, but only marginally effective at enhancing body composition and ameliorating cardiometabolic risk factors. This pilot trial aims to improve on existing interventions by employing periodised resistance training (RT) to counter sarcopenic obesity in PCS on ADT. Secondary aims compare intervention effects on cardiometabolic, physical function, quality of life and molecular skeletal muscle changes. An exploratory aim examines if protein supplementation (PS) in combination with RT elicits greater changes in these outcomes. Methods and analysis A 2×2 experimental design is used in 32 PCS on ADT across a 12-week intervention period. Participants are randomised to resistance training and protein supplementation (RTPS), RT, PS or control. RT and RTPS groups perform supervised RT three times per week for 12 weeks, while PS and RTPS groups receive 50 g whey protein per day. This pilot intervention applies a multilayered approach to ameliorate detrimental cardiometabolic effects of ADT while investigating molecular mechanisms underlying skeletal muscle changes in PCS. Ethics and dissemination This trial was approved by the University of Southern California Institutional Review Board (HS-13–00315). Results from this trial will be communicated in peer-reviewed publications and scientific presentations. Trial registration number NCT01909440; Pre-results. PMID:28698349

  7. Physical disability contributes to caregiver stress in dementia caregivers.

    PubMed

    Bruce, David G; Paley, Glenys A; Nichols, Pamela; Roberts, David; Underwood, Peter J; Schaper, Frank

    2005-03-01

    Previous findings of studies on the impact of physical illness on caregiver health have been inconsistent. The authors wanted to determine whether physical disability, as determined by the SF-12 survey that provides information on both physical and mental health problems, contributes to caregiver stress. The authors interviewed 91 primary caregivers (aged 38-85 years) of persons with dementia who had been referred by their family physicians for the first time for formal support services or memory evaluation. Caregivers completed the SF-12 version of the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form Health Survey that generates Mental Component Summary (MCS) and Physical Component Summary (PCS) scores and reported on caregiver stress and concurrent medical conditions and medications. Most caregivers reported stress (76.9%), having medical conditions (72.4%), or taking medications (67%). The MCS but not the PCS scores were significantly lower than community norms, indicating an excess of disability due to mental health problems. Nevertheless, 40.7% had PCS scores indicating some degree of physical disability. Using multiple logistic regression analysis, PCS scores but not the presence of medical problems were independently associated with caregiver stress. Chronic disability as assessed by SF-12 PCS scores is independently associated with caregiver stress. These data suggest that caregivers of persons with dementia should be assessed for disabling physical conditions and mental health problems. In addition, reducing the impact of physical disability could ameliorate caregiver stress.

  8. Diagnostic Methods for Platelet Bacteria Screening: Current Status and Developments

    PubMed Central

    Störmer, Melanie; Vollmer, Tanja

    2014-01-01

    Summary Bacterial contamination of blood components and the prevention of transfusion-associated bacterial infection still remains a major challenge in transfusion medicine. Over the past few decades, a significant reduction in the transmission of viral infections has been achieved due to the introduction of mandatory virus screening. Platelet concentrates (PCs) represent one of the highest risks for bacterial infection. This is due to the required storage conditions for PCs in gas-permeable containers at room temperature with constant agitation, which support bacterial proliferation from low contamination levels to high titers. In contrast to virus screening, since 1997 in Germany bacterial testing of PCs is only performed as a routine quality control or, since 2008, to prolong the shelf life to 5 days. In general, bacterial screening of PCs by cultivation methods is implemented by the various blood services. Although these culturing systems will remain the gold standard, the significance of rapid methods for screening for bacterial contamination has increased over the last few years. These new methods provide powerful tools for increasing the bacterial safety of blood components. This article summarizes the course of policies and provisions introduced to increase bacterial safety of blood components in Germany. Furthermore, we give an overview of the different diagnostic methods for bacterial screening of PCs and their current applicability in routine screening processes. PMID:24659944

  9. Development and clinical application of an evidence-based pharmaceutical care service algorithm in acute coronary syndrome.

    PubMed

    Kang, J E; Yu, J M; Choi, J H; Chung, I-M; Pyun, W B; Kim, S A; Lee, E K; Han, N Y; Yoon, J-H; Oh, J M; Rhie, S J

    2018-06-01

    Drug therapies are critical for preventing secondary complications in acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The purpose of this study was to develop and apply a pharmaceutical care service (PCS) algorithm for ACS and confirm that it is applicable through a prospective clinical trial. The ACS-PCS algorithm was developed according to extant evidence-based treatment and pharmaceutical care guidelines. Quality assurance was conducted through two methods: literature comparison and expert panel evaluation. The literature comparison was used to compare the content of the algorithm with the referenced guidelines. Expert evaluations were conducted by nine experts for 75 questionnaire items. A trial was conducted to confirm its effectiveness. Seventy-nine patients were assigned to either the pharmacist-included multidisciplinary team care (MTC) group or the usual care (UC) group. The endpoints of the trial were the prescription rate of two important drugs, readmission, emergency room (ER) visit and mortality. The main frame of the algorithm was structured with three tasks: medication reconciliation, medication optimization and transition of care. The contents and context of the algorithm were compliant with class I recommendations and the main service items from the evidence-based guidelines. Opinions from the expert panel were mostly positive. There were significant differences in beta-blocker prescription rates in the overall period (P = .013) and ER visits (four cases, 9.76%, P = .016) in the MTC group compared to the UC group, respectively. We developed a PCS algorithm for ACS based on the contents of evidence-based drug therapy and the core concept of pharmacist services. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  10. Medicaid Personal Care Services for Children with Intellectual Disabilities: What Assistance Is Provided? When Is Assistance Provided?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Elliot, Timothy R.; Patnaik, Ashweeta; Naiser, Emily; Fournier, Constance J.; McMaughan, Darcy K.; Dyer, James A.; Phillips, Charles D.

    2014-01-01

    We report on the nature and timing of services provided to children with an intellectual disability (ID) identified by a new comprehensive assessment and care planning tool used to evaluate children's needs for Medicaid Personal Care Services (PCS) in Texas. The new assessment procedure resulted from a legal settlement with the advocacy community.…

  11. Residual risk of bacterial contamination of platelets: six years of experience with sterility testing.

    PubMed

    Ramirez-Arcos, Sandra; DiFranco, Caesar; McIntyre, Terri; Goldman, Mindy

    2017-09-01

    Canadian Blood Services screens 100% of platelet concentrates (PCs) for bacterial contamination with the BacT/ALERT system. Quality-control sterility testing of 1% (≥10 units) of outdated PCs is performed monthly. Data from routine screening, quality-control testing, and septic reactions obtained from 2010 to 2016 are presented herein. In total, 601,988 buffy coat PC pools and 186,737 apheresis PCs were routinely screened with aerobic cultures over 6 years. Outdate quality-control testing of 8535 buffy coat and 8498 apheresis PCs was performed using aerobic and anaerobic cultures during the same period. Results were classified as "true-positives" when the same bacterium was isolated in initial and confirmatory cultures or "false-negatives" when bacteria were missed in early screening and were captured during quality-control sterility testing or through investigation of sepsis cases. During routine screening, the true-positive rates between buffy coat (0.94 per 10,000) and apheresis (0.96 per 10,000) PCs were similar (p = 0.9473). Seventy-five bacteria isolated during PC screening included Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms. Six false-negative septic reactions were reported that implicated coagulase-negative staphylococci (n = 3) and Staphylococcus aureus (n = 3) for approximate rates of 1 per 100,000 transfusion reactions and 1 per 500,000 fatalities. During quality-control testing, the false-negative rates between buffy coat (8 per 10,000) and apheresis (9 per 10,000) PCs were similar (p = 0.7897). All 15 quality-control isolates were Gram-positive bacteria. The current bacterial screening protocol is efficacious for identifying Gram-negative bacteria. However, the high proportion of Gram-positive organisms detected on outdate quality-control testing and septic transfusion events demonstrates a residual safety risk that merits further intervention. © 2017 AABB.

  12. Issues in PCS interoperability and Internetworking

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Dean, Richard A.; Estabrook, Polly

    1995-01-01

    This paper is an expansion of an earlier paper on Satellite/Terrestrial PCS which addressed issues for interoperability that included Networks, Services, Voice Coders and Mobility/Security. This paper focuses on the narrower topic of Network Reference Models and associated interfaces and protocols. The network reference models are addressed from the perspective of the User, the Cellular Carrier, the PSN Carrier, and the Radio Vendor. Each perspective is presented in the way these systems have evolved. The TIA TR46/GSM reference model will be reviewed. Variations in the use of this model that are prevalent in the industry will be discussed. These are the North American Cellular networks, the GSM networks, and the North American Carriers/Bellcore perspective. The paper concludes with the presentation of issues that develop from looking at merging satellite service into a world of many different networks.

  13. Application of SQL database to the control system of MOIRCS

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yoshikawa, Tomohiro; Omata, Koji; Konishi, Masahiro; Ichikawa, Takashi; Suzuki, Ryuji; Tokoku, Chihiro; Uchimoto, Yuka Katsuno; Nishimura, Tetsuo

    2006-06-01

    MOIRCS (Multi-Object Infrared Camera and Spectrograph) is a new instrument for the Subaru telescope. In order to perform observations of near-infrared imaging and spectroscopy with cold slit mask, MOIRCS contains many device components, which are distributed on an Ethernet LAN. Two PCs wired to the focal plane array electronics operate two HAWAII2 detectors, respectively, and other two PCs are used for integrated control and quick data reduction, respectively. Though most of the devices (e.g., filter and grism turrets, slit exchange mechanism for spectroscopy) are controlled via RS232C interface, they are accessible from TCP/IP connection using TCP/IP to RS232C converters. Moreover, other devices are also connected to the Ethernet LAN. This network distributed structure provides flexibility of hardware configuration. We have constructed an integrated control system for such network distributed hardwares, named T-LECS (Tohoku University - Layered Electronic Control System). T-LECS has also network distributed software design, applying TCP/IP socket communication to interprocess communication. In order to help the communication between the device interfaces and the user interfaces, we defined three layers in T-LECS; an external layer for user interface applications, an internal layer for device interface applications, and a communication layer, which connects two layers above. In the communication layer, we store the data of the system to an SQL database server; they are status data, FITS header data, and also meta data such as device configuration data and FITS configuration data. We present our software system design and the database schema to manage observations of MOIRCS with Subaru.

  14. EPA Facility Registry Service (FRS): ICIS

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    This web feature service contains location and facility identification information from EPA's Facility Registry Service (FRS) for the subset of facilities that link to the Integrated Compliance Information System (ICIS). When complete, ICIS will provide a database that will contain integrated enforcement and compliance information across most of EPA's programs. The vision for ICIS is to replace EPA's independent databases that contain enforcement data with a single repository for that information. Currently, ICIS contains all Federal Administrative and Judicial enforcement actions and a subset of the Permit Compliance System (PCS), which supports the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES). ICIS exchanges non-sensitive enforcement/compliance activities, non-sensitive formal enforcement actions and NPDES information with FRS. This web feature service contains the enforcement/compliance activities and formal enforcement action related facilities; the NPDES facilities are contained in the PCS_NPDES web feature service. FRS identifies and geospatially locates facilities, sites or places subject to environmental regulations or of environmental interest. Using vigorous verification and data management procedures, FRS integrates facility data from EPA's national program systems, other federal agencies, and State and tribal master facility records and provides EPA with a centrally managed, single source of comprehensive and authoritative information on f

  15. Randomized, Sham-Controlled, Feasibility Trial of Hyperbaric Oxygen for Service Members With Postconcussion Syndrome: Cognitive and Psychomotor Outcomes 1 Week Postintervention.

    PubMed

    Walker, William C; Franke, Laura Manning; Cifu, David X; Hart, Brett B

    2014-06-01

    Background Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) and residual postconcussion syndrome (PCS) are common among combatants of the recent military conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO2) is a proposed treatment but has not been rigorously studied for this condition. Objectives In a secondary analysis, examine for possible effects on psychomotor (balance and fine motor) and cognitive performance 1 week after an HBO2 intervention in service members with PCS after mTBI. Methods A randomized, double-blind, sham control, feasibility trial comparing pretreatment and posttreatment was conducted in 60 male active-duty marines with combat-related mTBI and PCS persisting for 3 to 36 months. Participants were randomized to 1 of 3 preassigned oxygen fractions (10.5%, 75%, or 100%) at 2.0 atmospheres absolute (ATA), resulting in respective groups with an oxygen exposure equivalent to (1) breathing surface air (Sham Air), (2) 100% oxygen at 1.5 ATA (1.5 ATAO2), and (3) 100% oxygen at 2.0 ATA (2.0 ATAO2). Over a 10-week period, participants received 40 hyperbaric chamber sessions of 60 minutes each. Outcome measures, including computerized posturography (balance), grooved pegboard (fine motor speed/dexterity), and multiple neuropsychological tests of cognitive performance, were collected preintervention and 1-week postintervention. Results Despite the multiple sensitive cognitive and psychomotor measures analyzed at an unadjusted 5% significance level, this study demonstrated no immediate postintervention beneficial effect of exposure to either 1.5 ATAO2 or 2.0 ATAO2 compared with the Sham Air intervention. Conclusions These results do not support the use of HBO2 to treat cognitive, balance, or fine motor deficits associated with mTBI and PCS. © The Author(s) 2013.

  16. Characterization of the Sesbania rostrata Phytochelatin Synthase Gene: Alternative Splicing and Function of Four Isoforms

    PubMed Central

    Li, An-Ming; Yu, Bing-Yun; Chen, Fu-Hua; Gan, Hui-Yan; Yuan, Jian-Gang; Qiu, Rongliang; Huang, Jun-Chao; Yang, Zhong-Yi; Xu, Zeng-Fu

    2009-01-01

    Phytochelatins (PCs) play an important role in detoxification of heavy metals in plants. PCs are synthesized from glutathione by phytochelatin synthase (PCS), a dipeptidyltransferase. Sesbania rostrata is a tropical legume plant that can tolerate high concentrations of Cd and Zn. In this study, the S. rostrata PCS gene (SrPCS) and cDNAs were isolated and characterized. Southern blot and sequence analysis revealed that a single copy of the SrPCS gene occurs in the S. rostrata genome, and produces four different SrPCS mRNAs and proteins, SrPCS1–SrPCS4, by alternative splicing of the SrPCS pre-mRNA. The SrPCS1 and SrPCS3 proteins conferred Cd tolerance when expressed in yeast cells, whereas the SrPCS2 and SrPCS4 proteins, which lack the catalytic triad and the N-terminal domains, did not. These results suggested that SrPCS1 and SrPCS3 have potential applications in genetic engineering of plants for enhancing heavy metal tolerance and phytoremediation of contaminated soils. PMID:20111680

  17. Characterization of the Sesbania rostrata phytochelatin synthase gene: alternative splicing and function of four isoforms.

    PubMed

    Li, An-Ming; Yu, Bing-Yun; Chen, Fu-Hua; Gan, Hui-Yan; Yuan, Jian-Gang; Qiu, Rongliang; Huang, Jun-Chao; Yang, Zhong-Yi; Xu, Zeng-Fu

    2009-07-24

    Phytochelatins (PCs) play an important role in detoxification of heavy metals in plants. PCs are synthesized from glutathione by phytochelatin synthase (PCS), a dipeptidyltransferase. Sesbania rostrata is a tropical legume plant that can tolerate high concentrations of Cd and Zn. In this study, the S. rostrata PCS gene (SrPCS) and cDNAs were isolated and characterized. Southern blot and sequence analysis revealed that a single copy of the SrPCS gene occurs in the S. rostrata genome, and produces four different SrPCS mRNAs and proteins, SrPCS1-SrPCS4, by alternative splicing of the SrPCS pre-mRNA. The SrPCS1 and SrPCS3 proteins conferred Cd tolerance when expressed in yeast cells, whereas the SrPCS2 and SrPCS4 proteins, which lack the catalytic triad and the N-terminal domains, did not. These results suggested that SrPCS1 and SrPCS3 have potential applications in genetic engineering of plants for enhancing heavy metal tolerance and phytoremediation of contaminated soils.

  18. Sight Word Recognition among Young Children At-Risk: Picture-Supported vs. Word-Only

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Meadan, Hedda; Stoner, Julia B.; Parette, Howard P.

    2008-01-01

    A quasi-experimental design was used to investigate the impact of Picture Communication Symbols (PCS) on sight word recognition by young children identified as "at risk" for academic and social-behavior difficulties. Ten pre-primer and 10 primer Dolch words were presented to 23 students in the intervention group and 8 students in the…

  19. Games as Text, Games as Action: Video Games in the English Classroom

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Beavis, Catherine

    2014-01-01

    Contemporary views of literacy, and of English and Language Arts curriculum recognise the importance of digital culture and communication forms in many young people's lives and the multiple forms of literacy students engage with as they work, interact and play. Amongst these, videogames, whether played on PCs, laptops, wiis, or on mobile devices…

  20. Effects of pollution from personal computers on perceived air quality, SBS symptoms and productivity in offices.

    PubMed

    Bakó-Biró, Z; Wargocki, P; Weschler, C J; Fanger, P O

    2004-06-01

    In groups of six, 30 female subjects were exposed for 4.8 h in a low-polluting office to each of two conditions--the presence or absence of 3-month-old personal computers (PCs). These PCs were placed behind a screen so that they were not visible to the subjects. Throughout the exposure the outdoor air supply was maintained at 10 l/s per person. Under each of the two conditions the subjects performed simulated office work using old low-polluting PCs. They also evaluated the air quality and reported Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) symptoms. The PCs were found to be strong indoor pollution sources, even after they had been in service for 3 months. The sensory pollution load of each PC was 3.4 olf, more than three times the pollution of a standard person. The presence of PCs increased the percentage of people dissatisfied with the perceived air quality from 13 to 41% and increased by 9% the time required for text processing. Chemical analyses were performed to determine the pollutants emitted by the PCs. The most significant chemicals detected included phenol, toluene, 2-ethylhexanol, formaldehyde, and styrene. The identified compounds were, however, insufficient in concentration and kind to explain the observed adverse effects. This suggests that chemicals other than those detected, so-called 'stealth chemicals', may contribute to the negative effects. PCs are an important, but hitherto overlooked, source of pollution indoors. They can decrease the perceived air quality, increase SBS symptoms and decrease office productivity. The ventilation rate in an office with a 3-month-old PC would need to be increased several times to achieve the same perceived air quality as in a low-polluting office with the PC absent. Pollution from PCs has an important negative impact on the air quality, not only in offices but also in many other spaces, including homes. PCs may have played a role in previously published studies on SBS and perceived air quality, where PCs were overlooked as a possible pollution source in the indoor environment. The fact that the chemicals identified in the office air and in the chamber experiments were insufficient to explain the adverse effects observed during human exposures illustrates the inadequacy of the analytical chemical methods commonly used in indoor air quality investigations. For certain chemicals the human senses are much more sensitive than the chemical methods routinely used in indoor air quality investigations. The adverse effects of PC-generated air pollutants could be reduced by modifications in the manufacturing process, increased ventilation, localized PC exhaust, or personalized ventilation systems.

  1. The variation in the health status of immigrants and Italians during the global crisis and the role of socioeconomic factors.

    PubMed

    Petrelli, Alessio; Di Napoli, Anteo; Rossi, Alessandra; Costanzo, Gianfranco; Mirisola, Concetta; Gargiulo, Lidia

    2017-06-12

    The effects of the recent global economic and financial crisis especially affected the most vulnerable social groups. Objective of the study was to investigate variation of self-perceived health status in Italians and immigrants during the economic global crisis, focusing on demographic and socioeconomic factors. Through a cross-sectional design we analyzed the national sample of multipurpose surveys "Health conditions and use of health services" (2005 and 2013) conducted by the Italian National Institute of Statistics (ISTAT). Physical Component Summary (PCS) and Mental Component Summary (MCS) scores, derived from SF-12 questionnaire, were assumed as study outcome, dichotomizing variables distribution at 1 st quartile. Prevalence rate ratios (PRR) were estimated through log-binomial regression models, stratified by citizenship and gender, evaluating the association between PCS and MCS with surveys' year, adjusting for age, educational level, employment status, self-perceived economic resources, smoking habits, body mass index. From 2005 to 2013 the proportion of people not employed or reporting scarce/insufficient economic resources increased, especially among men, in particular immigrants. Compared with 2005 we observed in 2013 among Italians a significant lower probability of worse PCS (PRR = 0.96 both for males and females), while no differences were observed among immigrants; a higher probability of worse MCS was observed, particularly among men (Italians: PRR = 1.26;95%CI:1.22-1.29; immigrants: PRR = 1.19;95%CI:1.03-1.38). Self-perceived scarce/insufficient economic resources were strongly and significantly associated with worse PCS and MCS for all subgroups. Lower educational level was strongly associated with worse PCS in Italians and slightly associated with worse MCS for all subgroups. Being not employed was associated with worse health status, especially mental health among men. Our findings support the hypothesis that economic global crisis could have negatively affected health status, particularly mental health, of Italians and immigrants. Furthermore, results suggest socioeconomic inequalities increase, in economic resources availability dimension. In a context of public health resources' limitation due to financial crisis, policy decision makers and health service managers must face the challenge of equity in health.

  2. Acuity systems dialogue and patient classification system essentials.

    PubMed

    Harper, Kelle; McCully, Crystal

    2007-01-01

    Obtaining resources for quality patient care is a major responsibility of nurse leaders and requires accurate information in the political world of budgeting. Patient classification systems (PCS) assist nurse managers in controlling cost and improving patient care while appropriately using financial resources. This paper communicates acuity systems development, background, flaws, and components while discussing a few tools currently available. It also disseminates the development of a new acuity tool, the Patient Classification System. The PCS tool, developed in a small rural hospital, uses 5 broad concepts: (1) medications, (2) complicated procedures, (3) education, (4) psychosocial issues, and (5) complicated intravenous medications. These concepts embrace a 4-tiered scale that differentiates significant patient characteristics and assists in staffing measures for equality in patient staffing and improving quality of care and performance. Data obtained through use of the PCS can be used by nurse leaders to effectively and objectively lobby for appropriate patient care resources. Two questionnaires distributed to registered nurses on a medical-surgical unit evaluated the nurses' opinion of the 5 concepts and the importance for establishing patient acuity for in-patient care. Interrater reliability among nurses was 87% with the author's acuity tool.

  3. Progress and plan of KSTAR plasma control system upgrade

    DOE PAGES

    Hahn, Sang-hee; Kim, Y. J.; Penaflor, B. G.; ...

    2016-06-01

    The plasma control system (PCS) has been one of essential systems in annual KSTAR plasma campaigns: starting from a single-process version in 2008, extensive upgrades are done through the previous 7 years in order to achieve major goals of KSTAR performance enhancement. Here, major implementations are explained in this paper. In consequences of successive upgrades, the present KSTAR PCS is able to achieve ~48 s of 500 kA plasma pulses with full real-time shaping controls and real-time NB power controls. It has become a huge system capable of dealing with 8 separate categories of algorithms, 26 actuators directly controllable duringmore » the shot, and real-time data communication units consisting of +180 analog channels and +600 digital input/outputs through the reflective memory (RFM) network. The next upgrade of the KSTAR PCS is planned in 2015 before the campaign. An overview of the upgrade layout will be given for this paper. The real-time system box is planned to use the CERN MRG-Realtime OS, an ITER-compatible standard operating system. New hardware is developed for faster real-time streaming system for future installations of actuators/diagnostics.« less

  4. Performance of HIV care decentralization from the patient's perspective: health-related quality of life and perceived quality of services in Cameroon.

    PubMed

    Boyer, Sylvie; Protopopescu, Camelia; Marcellin, Fabienne; Carrieri, Maria Patrizia; Koulla-Shiro, Sinata; Moatti, Jean-Paul; Spire, Bruno

    2012-07-01

    (i) To assess HIV care decentralization in Cameroon from the patients' point of view, in terms of health-related quality of life (HRQL) and perceived quality of services; (ii) to identify patient- and hospital-related factors undermining HRQL. Perceived quality of services was compared among 1985 HIV-infected patients treated with antiretroviral therapy (ART) for at least 6 months in 27 treatment centres at different levels of health care delivery (central, provincial and district) (EVAL-ANRS 12-116 survey, 2007) using chi-square and non-parametric tests. Correlates of the SF-12 physical (PCS) and mental (MCS) HRQL scores were identified using two-level linear models. Patients followed-up at central and district levels had similar physical HRQL, while those followed-up at the more decentralized district level reported significantly better mental HRQL. Patients at district level also expressed better relationships with caregivers, easier access to consultations and more reliable drug supply. Financial barriers to access to HIV care and self-reported side-effects were independently associated with both lower PCS and lower MCS. Caregivers' heavy workload tended to impair both PCS and MCS, while availability of counselling by social workers in the hospital was independently associated with higher MCS. Despite limited resources, the decentralization of ART delivery can improve quality of care, providing a positive impact on HIV-infected patients' well-being. The development of psychosocial support interventions is necessary but not sufficient for improving quality of care in ART scaling-up programmes, and should be related to global strengthening of health human resources.

  5. Music carries a message to youths.

    PubMed

    Coleman, P L

    1986-01-01

    The most widely played song in Mexico in March 1986 is a special record designed to encourage young people to be sexually responsible and not to bring into the world children they cannot care for. "It's OK to say 'no,'" is the message of a unique new family planning and health communication project designed to reach young people in 11 Spanish speaking countries of Latin America and the Caribbean. What makes this ambitious regional project so unique is not just the message or the remarkable success of the 1st song but the combination of materials that were produced, the way they were produced, and how they are now being used throughout the region. The Population Communication Services project in the Johns Hopkins School of Hygiene and Public Health (JHU/PCS) has been working in Latin America and elsewhere for 4 years to support innovative family planning communication projects. It became evident that 1 key group was not being reached, i.e., young people aged 13-18 who comprise approximately 30% of the total population in Latin America. The fertility and sexual behavior of young people have a significant impact on their own lives, their community, their country, and the region. Early pregnancy is a major health and social problem throughout the region and the world. To address this problem, the JHU/PCS decided to develop a regional Latin American project to make young people more sharply aware of the personal advantages to them of responsible parenthood. JHU/PCS put together a financial, marketing, and institutional package. The US Agency for International Development (USAID) provided the finances. Analysis showed that the common denominator for young people throughout the region is music. The decision was made to produce 2 songs, each with a music video, pressed on each side of 45 rpm single records and enclosed in a full-size, full-color, 2-sided record jacket which folds out into a poster. The next step was to refine the general message of sexual responsibility to a specific message, one that young people would listen to and that would not offend others. Once the artists and the messages had been identified, a contest was held for the music and lyrics, with more than 20 professional composers participating. An underlying concern built into the design of this project was that the materials had to appeal to young people as popular songs, not as educational materials. The marketing of what became known as the "Tatiana & Johnny Project" included sending: copies of the record to 3020 radio stations; copies of the record and music videos to 250 television stations; press kits to 350 newspapers, magazines, and journals; and brochures about the project to 3500 media representatives throughout the region. Initial reaction to the project has been overwhelmingly positive. Lessons learned from the project are identified.

  6. 47 CFR 24.236 - Field strength limits.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Field strength limits. 24.236 Section 24.236... SERVICES Broadband PCS § 24.236 Field strength limits. The predicted or measured median field strength at... to a higher field strength. ...

  7. 47 CFR 24.236 - Field strength limits.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Field strength limits. 24.236 Section 24.236... SERVICES Broadband PCS § 24.236 Field strength limits. The predicted or measured median field strength at... to a higher field strength. ...

  8. The Portable Chemical Sterilizer (PCS), D-FENS, and D-FEND ALL: novel chlorine dioxide decontamination technologies for the military.

    PubMed

    Doona, Christopher J; Feeherry, Florence E; Setlow, Peter; Malkin, Alexander J; Leighton, Terrence J

    2014-06-29

    There is a stated Army need for a field-portable, non-steam sterilizer technology that can be used by Forward Surgical Teams, Dental Companies, Veterinary Service Support Detachments, Combat Support Hospitals, and Area Medical Laboratories to sterilize surgical instruments and to sterilize pathological specimens prior to disposal in operating rooms, emergency treatment areas, and intensive care units. The following ensemble of novel, 'clean and green' chlorine dioxide technologies are versatile and flexible to adapt to meet a number of critical military needs for decontamination(6,15). Specifically, the Portable Chemical Sterilizer (PCS) was invented to meet urgent battlefield needs and close critical capability gaps for energy-independence, lightweight portability, rapid mobility, and rugged durability in high intensity forward deployments(3). As a revolutionary technological breakthrough in surgical sterilization technology, the PCS is a Modern Field Autoclave that relies on on-site, point-of-use, at-will generation of chlorine dioxide instead of steam. Two (2) PCS units sterilize 4 surgical trays in 1 hr, which is the equivalent throughput of one large steam autoclave (nicknamed "Bertha" in deployments because of its cumbersome size, bulky dimensions, and weight). However, the PCS operates using 100% less electricity (0 vs. 9 kW) and 98% less water (10 vs. 640 oz.), significantly reduces weight by 95% (20 vs. 450 lbs, a 4-man lift) and cube by 96% (2.1 vs. 60.2 ft(3)), and virtually eliminates the difficult challenges in forward deployments of repairs and maintaining reliable operation, lifting and transporting, and electrical power required for steam autoclaves.

  9. Mortality differences between self-employed and paid employees: a 5-year follow-up study of the working population in Sweden.

    PubMed

    Toivanen, Susanna; Griep, Rosane Härter; Mellner, Christin; Vinberg, Stig; Eloranta, Sandra

    2016-09-01

    Analyse mortality differences between self-employed and paid employees with a focus on industrial sector, educational level and gender using Swedish register data. A cohort of the total working population (4 776 135 individuals; 7.2% self-employed; 18-100 years of age at baseline 2003) in Sweden with a 5-year follow-up (2004-2008) for all-cause and cause-specific mortality (57 743 deaths). Self-employed individuals were categorised as sole proprietors or limited liability company (LLC) owners according to their enterprise's legal form. Cox proportional hazards models were applied to compare mortality rates between sole proprietors, LLC owners and paid employees, adjusted for sociodemographic confounders. Mortality from cardiovascular diseases was 16% lower and from suicide 26% lower among LLC owners than among paid employees, adjusted for confounders. Within the industrial category, all-cause mortality was 13-15% lower among sole proprietors and LLC owners compared with employees in manufacturing and mining (MM) as well as personal and cultural services (PCS), and 11-20% higher in sole proprietors in trade, transport and communication and the welfare industry (W). A significant three-way interaction indicated 17-23% lower all-cause mortality among male LLC owners in MM and female sole proprietors in PCS, and 50% higher mortality in female sole proprietors in W than in employees in the same industries. Mortality differences between self-employed individuals and paid employees vary by the legal form of self-employment, across industries, and by gender. Differences in work environment exposures and working conditions, varying market competition across industries and gender segregation in the labour market are potential mechanisms underlying these findings. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/

  10. Mobile display technologies: Past developments, present technologies, and future opportunities

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ohshima, Hiroyuki

    2014-01-01

    It has been thirty years since the first active matrix (AM) flat panel display (FPD) was industrialized for portable televisions (TVs) in 1984. The AM FPD has become a dominant electronic display technology widely used from mobile displays to large TVs. The development of AM FPDs for mobile displays has significantly changed our lives by enabling new applications, such as notebook personal computers (PCs), smartphones and tablet PCs. In the future, the role of mobile displays will become even more important, since mobile displays are the live interface for the world of mobile communications in the era of ubiquitous networks. Various developments are being conducted to improve visual performance, reduce power consumption and add new functionality. At the same time, innovative display concepts and novel manufacturing technologies are being investigated to create new values.

  11. Service oriented network architecture for control and management of home appliances

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hayakawa, Hiroshi; Koita, Takahiro; Sato, Kenya

    2005-12-01

    Recent advances in multimedia network systems and mechatronics have led to the development of a new generation of applications that associate the use of various multimedia objects with the behavior of multiple robotic actors. The connection of audio and video devices through high speed multimedia networks is expected to make the system more convenient to use. For example, many home appliances, such as a video camera, a display monitor, a video recorder, an audio system and so on, are being equipped with a communication interface in the near future. Recently some platforms (i.e. UPnP1, HAVi2 and so on) are proposed for constructing home networks; however, there are some issues to be solved to realize various services by connecting different equipment via the pervasive peer-to-peer network. UPnP offers network connectivity of PCs of intelligent home appliances, practically, which means to require a PC in the network to control other devices. Meanwhile, HAVi has been developed for intelligent AV equipments with sophisticated functions using high CPU power and large memory. Considering the targets of home alliances are embedded systems, this situation raises issues of software and hardware complexity, cost, power consumption and so on. In this study, we have proposed and developed the service oriented network architecture for control and management of home appliances, named SONICA (Service Oriented Network Interoperability for Component Adaptation), to address these issues described before.

  12. E-health: determinants, opportunities, challenges and the way forward for countries in the WHO African Region.

    PubMed

    Kirigia, Joses M; Seddoh, Anthony; Gatwiri, Doris; Muthuri, Lenity H K; Seddoh, Janet

    2005-12-20

    The implementation of the 58th World Health Assembly resolution on e-health will pose a major challenge for the Member States of the World Health Organization (WHO) African Region due to lack of information and communications technology (ICT) and mass Internet connectivity, compounded by a paucity of ICT-related knowledge and skills. The key objectives of this article are to: (i) explore the key determinants of personal computers (PCs), telephone mainline and cellular and Internet penetration/connectivity in the African Region; and (ii) to propose actions needed to create an enabling environment for e-health services growth and utilization in the Region. The effects of school enrolment, per capita income and governance variables on the number of PCs, telephone mainlines, cellular phone subscribers and Internet users were estimated using a double-log regression model and cross-sectional data on various Member States in the African Region. The analysis was based on 45 of the 46 countries that comprise the Region. The data were obtained from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the World Bank and the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) sources. There were a number of main findings: (i) the adult literacy and total number of Internet users had a statistically significant (at 5% level in a t-distribution test) positive effect on the number of PCs in a country; (ii) the combined school enrolment rate and per capita income had a statistically significant direct effect on the number of telephone mainlines and cellular telephone subscribers; (iii) the regulatory quality had statistically significant negative effect on the number of telephone mainlines; (iv) similarly, the combined school enrolment ratio and the number of telephone mainlines had a statistically significant positive relationship with Internet usage; and (v) there were major inequalities in ICT connectivity between upper-middle, lower-middle and low income countries in the Region. By focusing on the adoption of specific technologies we attempted to interpret correlates in terms of relationships instead of absolute "causals". In order to improve access to health care, especially for the majority of Africans living in remote rural areas, there is need to boost the availability and utilization of e-health services. Thus, universal access to e-health ought to be a vision for all countries in the African Region. Each country ought to develop a road map in a strategic e-health plan that will, over time, enable its citizens to realize that vision.

  13. E-health: Determinants, opportunities, challenges and the way forward for countries in the WHO African Region

    PubMed Central

    Kirigia, Joses M; Seddoh, Anthony; Gatwiri, Doris; Muthuri, Lenity HK; Seddoh, Janet

    2005-01-01

    Background The implementation of the 58th World Health Assembly resolution on e-health will pose a major challenge for the Member States of the World Health Organization (WHO) African Region due to lack of information and communications technology (ICT) and mass Internet connectivity, compounded by a paucity of ICT-related knowledge and skills. The key objectives of this article are to: (i) explore the key determinants of personal computers (PCs), telephone mainline and cellular and Internet penetration/connectivity in the African Region; and (ii) to propose actions needed to create an enabling environment for e-health services growth and utilization in the Region. Methods The effects of school enrolment, per capita income and governance variables on the number of PCs, telephone mainlines, cellular phone subscribers and Internet users were estimated using a double-log regression model and cross-sectional data on various Member States in the African Region. The analysis was based on 45 of the 46 countries that comprise the Region. The data were obtained from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the World Bank and the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) sources. Results There were a number of main findings: (i) the adult literacy and total number of Internet users had a statistically significant (at 5% level in a t-distribution test) positive effect on the number of PCs in a country; (ii) the combined school enrolment rate and per capita income had a statistically significant direct effect on the number of telephone mainlines and cellular telephone subscribers; (iii) the regulatory quality had statistically significant negative effect on the number of telephone mainlines; (iv) similarly, the combined school enrolment ratio and the number of telephone mainlines had a statistically significant positive relationship with Internet usage; and (v) there were major inequalities in ICT connectivity between upper-middle, lower-middle and low income countries in the Region. By focusing on the adoption of specific technologies we attempted to interpret correlates in terms of relationships instead of absolute "causals". Conclusion In order to improve access to health care, especially for the majority of Africans living in remote rural areas, there is need to boost the availability and utilization of e-health services. Thus, universal access to e-health ought to be a vision for all countries in the African Region. Each country ought to develop a road map in a strategic e-health plan that will, over time, enable its citizens to realize that vision. PMID:16364186

  14. A reassessment of substrate specificity and activation of phytochelatin synthases from model plants by physiologically relevant metals.

    PubMed

    Loscos, Jorge; Naya, Loreto; Ramos, Javier; Clemente, Maria R; Matamoros, Manuel A; Becana, Manuel

    2006-04-01

    Phytochelatin synthases (PCS) catalyze phytochelatin (PC) synthesis from glutathione (GSH) in the presence of certain metals. The resulting PC-metal complexes are transported into the vacuole, avoiding toxic effects on metabolism. Legumes have the unique capacity to partially or completely replace GSH by homoglutathione (hGSH) and PCs by homophytochelatins (hPCs). However, the synthesis of hPCs has received little attention. A search for PCS genes in the model legume Lotus (Lotus japonicus) resulted in the isolation of a cDNA clone encoding a protein (LjPCS1) highly homologous to a previously reported homophytochelatin synthase (hPCS) of Glycine max (GmhPCS1). Recombinant LjPCS1 and Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) PCS1 (AtPCS1) were affinity purified and their polyhistidine-tags removed. AtPCS1 catalyzed hPC synthesis from hGSH alone at even higher rates than did LjPCS1, indicating that GmhPCS1 is not a genuine hPCS and that a low ratio of hPC to PC synthesis is an inherent feature of PCS1 enzymes. For both enzymes, hGSH is a good acceptor, but a poor donor, of gamma-glutamylcysteine units. Purified AtPCS1 and LjPCS1 were activated (in decreasing order) by Cd2+, Zn2+, Cu2+, and Fe3+, but not by Co2+ or Ni2+, in the presence of 5 mm GSH and 50 microm metal ions. Activation of both enzymes by Fe3+ was proven by the complete inhibition of PC synthesis by the iron-specific chelator desferrioxamine. Plants of Arabidopsis and Lotus accumulated (h)PCs only in response to a large excess of Cu2+ and Zn2+, but to a much lower extent than did with Cd2+, indicating that (h)PC synthesis does not significantly contribute in vivo to copper, zinc, and iron detoxification.

  15. “It means you are grounded” – caregivers’ perspectives on the rehabilitation of children with neurodisability in Malawi

    PubMed Central

    Paget, Amelia; Mallewa, Macpherson; Chinguo, Dorothy; Mahebere-Chirambo, Chawanangwa; Gladstone, Melissa

    2016-01-01

    Abstract Purpose: Rates of childhood disability are estimated to be high in African settings; however, services to provide information and support are limited. This study aims to explore perspectives and experiences of caregivers of children with disabilities (CWD) from acquired brain injury to inform the development of training packages for health-workers (HW) in hospital settings. Methods: The study was conducted in a tertiary hospital using qualitative methods. Fourteen in-depth interviews (IDIs) were conducted with parents/carers (PC), and 10 IDIs and 4 focus-group discussions (FGDs) with HW. Data were audio-recorded, transcribed, translated and analysed using thematic approaches. Results: HWs and PCs held varying perspectives on aetiology and prognosis for CWD. HWs raised concerns about impact on families, risks of neglect and abuse. Barriers to care and support included prioritisation of acute illness, lack of HW knowledge and confidence, stigma, poor communication, focus on physical disability, and poor availability of services. Among ideas for improvement, good communication and counselling was seen as a priority but not often achieved. Conclusion: A range of family, health service and wider contextual factors affect care for CWD. Training for HW should emphasise disability rights, access to services, a range of disabilities and specific training on counselling.Implications for RehabilitationTo create good training programmes for workers who manage children with neurodisability, workers’ views on their training needs, as well parents’ views of what feel they need to know most, must be taken into account.The need for training regarding communication skills is a priority for health-workers (HW), who manage children with neurodisability in Malawi and confidence in this area is likely to be vital in providing support for these families.Disability rights and inclusion should be imperative in any training programme for managing children with neurodisability in hospital settings.Even in low-resource settings such as Malawi, it is vital that the links between hospital management and the limited resources in the community are updated and maintained.

  16. Phytochelatin synthases of the model legume Lotus japonicus. A small multigene family with differential response to cadmium and alternatively spliced variants.

    PubMed

    Ramos, Javier; Clemente, Maria R; Naya, Loreto; Loscos, Jorge; Pérez-Rontomé, Carmen; Sato, Shusei; Tabata, Satoshi; Becana, Manuel

    2007-03-01

    The biosynthesis of phytochelatins and homophytochelatins has been studied in nodulated plants of the model legume Lotus (Lotus japonicus). In the first 6 to 24 h of treatment with cadmium (Cd), roots started to synthesize elevated amounts of both polypeptides, with a concomitant increase of glutathione and a decrease of homoglutathione, indicating the presence of active phytochelatin synthase (PCS) genes. Screening of transformation-competent artificial chromosome libraries allowed identification of a cluster of three genes, LjPCS1, LjPCS2, and LjPCS3, which were mapped at 69.0 cM on chromosome 1. The genes differ in exon-intron composition and responsiveness to Cd. Gene structures and phylogenetic analysis of the three protein products, LjPCS1-8R, LjPCS2-7N, and LjPCS3-7N, are consistent with two sequential gene duplication events during evolution of vascular plants. Two sites for alternative splicing in the primary transcripts were identified. One of them, involving intron 2 of the LjPCS2 gene, was confirmed by the finding of the two predicted mRNAs, encoding LjPCS2-7R in roots and LjPCS2-7N in nodules. The amino acid sequences of LjPCS2-7R (or LjPCS2-7N) and LjPCS3-7N share 90% identity, but have only 43% to 59% identity with respect to the typical PCS1 enzymes of Lotus and other plants. The unusual LjPCS2-7N and LjPCS3-7N proteins conferred Cd tolerance when expressed in yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) cells, whereas the alternatively spliced form, LjPCS2-7R, differing only in a five-amino acid motif (GRKWK) did not. These results unveil complex regulatory mechanisms of PCS expression in legume tissues in response to heavy metals and probably to other developmental and environmental factors.

  17. The Portable Chemical Sterilizer (PCS), D-FENS, and D-FEND ALL: Novel Chlorine Dioxide Decontamination Technologies for the Military

    PubMed Central

    Doona, Christopher J.; Feeherry, Florence E.; Setlow, Peter; Malkin, Alexander J.; Leighton, Terrence J.

    2014-01-01

    There is a stated Army need for a field-portable, non-steam sterilizer technology that can be used by Forward Surgical Teams, Dental Companies, Veterinary Service Support Detachments, Combat Support Hospitals, and Area Medical Laboratories to sterilize surgical instruments and to sterilize pathological specimens prior to disposal in operating rooms, emergency treatment areas, and intensive care units. The following ensemble of novel, ‘clean and green’ chlorine dioxide technologies are versatile and flexible to adapt to meet a number of critical military needs for decontamination6,15. Specifically, the Portable Chemical Sterilizer (PCS) was invented to meet urgent battlefield needs and close critical capability gaps for energy-independence, lightweight portability, rapid mobility, and rugged durability in high intensity forward deployments3. As a revolutionary technological breakthrough in surgical sterilization technology, the PCS is a Modern Field Autoclave that relies on on-site, point-of-use, at-will generation of chlorine dioxide instead of steam. Two (2) PCS units sterilize 4 surgical trays in 1 hr, which is the equivalent throughput of one large steam autoclave (nicknamed “Bertha” in deployments because of its cumbersome size, bulky dimensions, and weight). However, the PCS operates using 100% less electricity (0 vs. 9 kW) and 98% less water (10 vs. 640 oz.), significantly reduces weight by 95% (20 vs. 450 lbs, a 4-man lift) and cube by 96% (2.1 vs. 60.2 ft3), and virtually eliminates the difficult challenges in forward deployments of repairs and maintaining reliable operation, lifting and transporting, and electrical power required for steam autoclaves. PMID:24998679

  18. Spillover-mediated feedforward-inhibition functionally segregates interneuron activity

    PubMed Central

    Coddington, Luke T.; Rudolph, Stephanie; Lune, Patrick Vande; Overstreet-Wadiche, Linda; Wadiche, Jacques I.

    2013-01-01

    Summary Neurotransmitter spillover represents a form of neural transmission not restricted to morphologically defined synaptic connections. Communication between climbing fibers (CFs) and molecular layer interneurons (MLIs) in the cerebellum is mediated exclusively by glutamate spillover. Here, we show how CF stimulation functionally segregates MLIs based on their location relative to glutamate release. Excitation of MLIs that reside within the domain of spillover diffusion coordinates inhibition of MLIs outside the diffusion limit. CF excitation of MLIs is dependent on extrasynaptic NMDA receptors that enhance the spatial and temporal spread of CF signaling. Activity mediated by functionally segregated MLIs converges onto neighboring Purkinje cells (PCs) to generate a long-lasting biphasic change in inhibition. These data demonstrate how glutamate release from single CFs modulates excitability of neighboring PCs, thus expanding the influence of CFs on cerebellar cortical activity in a manner not predicted by anatomical connectivity. PMID:23707614

  19. T-LECS: The Control Software System for MOIRCS

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yoshikawa, T.; Omata, K.; Konishi, M.; Ichikawa, T.; Suzuki, R.; Tokoku, C.; Katsuno, Y.; Nishimura, T.

    2006-07-01

    MOIRCS (Multi-Object Infrared Camera and Spectrograph) is a new instrument for the Subaru Telescope. We present the system design of the control software system for MOIRCS, named T-LECS (Tohoku University - Layered Electronic Control System). T-LECS is a PC-Linux based network distributed system. Two PCs equipped with the focal plane array system operate two HAWAII2 detectors, respectively, and another PC is used for user interfaces and a database server. Moreover, these PCs control various devices for observations distributed on a TCP/IP network. T-LECS has three interfaces; interfaces to the devices and two user interfaces. One of the user interfaces is to the integrated observation control system (Subaru Observation Software System) for observers, and another one provides the system developers the direct access to the devices of MOIRCS. In order to help the communication between these interfaces, we employ an SQL database system.

  20. 47 CFR 24.321 - Designated entities.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Designated entities. 24.321 Section 24.321... SERVICES Competitive Bidding Procedures for Narrowband PCS § 24.321 Designated entities. (a) Eligibility for small business provisions. (1) A small business is an entity that, together with its controlling...

  1. 47 CFR 24.321 - Designated entities.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Designated entities. 24.321 Section 24.321... SERVICES Competitive Bidding Procedures for Narrowband PCS § 24.321 Designated entities. (a) Eligibility for small business provisions. (1) A small business is an entity that, together with its controlling...

  2. 75 FR 69871 - Homeowners Assistance Program-Application Processing

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-11-16

    ... relocating during the mortgage crisis; and Service member homeowners undergoing Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves during the mortgage crisis. DATES: Effective Date: January 18, 2011. FOR FURTHER... financial stability and increase quality of life for those impacted by the mortgage crisis. The Department...

  3. Twelve-Month Prospective Randomized Study of Pharmacists Utilizing Point-Of-Care Testing for Metabolic Syndrome and Related Conditions in Subjects Prescribed Antipsychotics

    PubMed Central

    Shuster, Sara M.; Davey, Cynthia S.

    2014-01-01

    Objective: Determine the percentage of subjects taking antipsychotics who meet criteria for metabolic syndrome based on point-of-care testing analyses. Evaluate pharmacist comprehensive medication management services using point-of-care tests to reduce the mean difference in number of metabolic syndrome risk parameters at 6 and 12 months. Method: This 12-month, prospective, multisite, randomized, controlled study included 120 subjects taking antipsychotics (mean [SD] age of 42.9 [11.3] years) recruited from 3 community mental health clinics in Minnesota. Subjects consented to receive either pharmacist (PCS; n = 60) or no pharmacist (NCS; n = 60) comprehensive medication management services. Data were collected from February 2010 to January 2012. Results: No statistical differences in metabolic syndrome based on point-of-care tests were observed between the 2 groups at baseline (PCS: 85.2%, n = 46 versus NCS: 71.2%, n = 42, P = .073) or at 12 months (PCS: 84.4%, n = 38 versus NCS: 70.2%, n = 33, P = .104). Subjects, overall, screened positive at baseline for dyslipidemia (85.8%, n = 106), hypertension (52.5%, n = 63), and diabetes (22.5%, n = 27) based on point-of-care testing for metabolic risk criteria. After 12 months, a nonsignificant (P = .099) higher adjusted mean number of metabolic syndrome parameters in PCS subjects compared to NCS subjects (mean difference [95% CI] = 0.41 [−0.08 to 0.90]) were found. Conclusions: A relatively high proportion of subjects met criteria for metabolic syndrome, although no significant improvement was observed between the groups after 12 months. Point-of-care test analyses identified a high proportion of subjects meeting criteria for dyslipidemia, hypertension, and diabetes. Utilizing point-of-care tests in mental health settings and fostering interprofessional partnerships with comprehensive medication management pharmacists may improve identification and long-term management of metabolic risks among patients prescribed antipsychotics. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02029989 PMID:25667811

  4. Process control systems: integrated for future process technologies

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Botros, Youssry; Hajj, Hazem M.

    2003-06-01

    Process Control Systems (PCS) are becoming more crucial to the success of Integrated Circuit makers due to their direct impact on product quality, cost, and Fab output. The primary objective of PCS is to minimize variability by detecting and correcting non optimal performance. Current PCS implementations are considered disparate, where each PCS application is designed, deployed and supported separately. Each implementation targets a specific area of control such as equipment performance, wafer manufacturing, and process health monitoring. With Intel entering the nanometer technology era, tighter process specifications are required for higher yields and lower cost. This requires areas of control to be tightly coupled and integrated to achieve the optimal performance. This requirement can be achieved via consistent design and deployment of the integrated PCS. PCS integration will result in several benefits such as leveraging commonalities, avoiding redundancy, and facilitating sharing between implementations. This paper will address PCS implementations and focus on benefits and requirements of the integrated PCS. Intel integrated PCS Architecture will be then presented and its components will be briefly discussed. Finally, industry direction and efforts to standardize PCS interfaces that enable PCS integration will be presented.

  5. AIRNET: A real-time comunications network for aircraft

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Weaver, Alfred C.; Cain, Brendan G.; Colvin, M. Alexander; Simoncic, Robert

    1990-01-01

    A real-time local area network was developed for use on aircraft and space vehicles. It uses token ring technology to provide high throughput, low latency, and high reliability. The system was implemented on PCs and PC/ATs operating on PCbus, and on Intel 8086/186/286/386s operating on Multibus. A standard IEEE 802.2 logical link control interface was provided to (optional) upper layer software; this permits the controls designer to utilize standard communications protocols (e.g., ISO, TCP/IP) if time permits, or to utilize a very fast link level protocol directly if speed is critical. Both unacknowledged datagram and reliable virtual circuit services are supported. A station operating an 8 MHz Intel 286 as a host can generate a sustained load of 1.8 megabits per second per station, and a 100-byte message can be delivered from the transmitter's user memory to the receiver's user memory, including all operating system and network overhead, in under 4 milliseconds.

  6. Homologous cloning, characterization and expression of a new halophyte phytochelatin synthase gene in Suaeda salsa

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cong, Ming; Zhao, Jianmin; Lü, Jiasen; Ren, Zhiming; Wu, Huifeng

    2016-09-01

    The halophyte Suaeda salsa can grow in heavy metal-polluted areas along intertidal zones having high salinity. Since phytochelatins can eff ectively chelate heavy metals, it was hypothesized that S. salsa possessed a phytochelatin synthase (PCS) gene. In the present study, the cDNA of PCS was obtained from S. salsa (designated as SsPCS) using homologous cloning and the rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE). A sequence analysis revealed that SsPCS consisted of 1 916 bp nucleotides, encoding a polypeptide of 492 amino acids with one phytochelatin domain and one phytochelatin C domain. A similarity analysis suggested that SsPCS shared up to a 58.6% identity with other PCS proteins and clustered with PCS proteins from eudicots. There was a new kind of metal ion sensor motif in its C-terminal domain. The SsPCS transcript was more highly expressed in elongated and fibered roots and stems ( P<0.05) than in leaves. Lead and mercury exposure significantly enhanced the mRNA expression of SsPCS ( P<0.05). To the best of our knowledge, SsPCS is the second PCS gene cloned from a halophyte, and it might contain a diff erent metal sensing capability than the first PCS from Thellungiella halophila. This study provided a new view of halophyte PCS genes in heavy metal tolerance.

  7. 47 CFR 24.135 - Frequency stability.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Frequency stability. 24.135 Section 24.135... SERVICES Narrowband PCS § 24.135 Frequency stability. (a) The frequency stability of the transmitter shall... battery operated equipment, the equipment tests shall be performed using a new battery without any further...

  8. 47 CFR 24.135 - Frequency stability.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Frequency stability. 24.135 Section 24.135... SERVICES Narrowband PCS § 24.135 Frequency stability. (a) The frequency stability of the transmitter shall... battery operated equipment, the equipment tests shall be performed using a new battery without any further...

  9. 47 CFR 24.135 - Frequency stability.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Frequency stability. 24.135 Section 24.135... SERVICES Narrowband PCS § 24.135 Frequency stability. (a) The frequency stability of the transmitter shall... battery operated equipment, the equipment tests shall be performed using a new battery without any further...

  10. 47 CFR 24.135 - Frequency stability.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Frequency stability. 24.135 Section 24.135... SERVICES Narrowband PCS § 24.135 Frequency stability. (a) The frequency stability of the transmitter shall... battery operated equipment, the equipment tests shall be performed using a new battery without any further...

  11. 47 CFR 24.135 - Frequency stability.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Frequency stability. 24.135 Section 24.135... SERVICES Narrowband PCS § 24.135 Frequency stability. (a) The frequency stability of the transmitter shall... battery operated equipment, the equipment tests shall be performed using a new battery without any further...

  12. Brain vascular pericytes following ischemia have multipotential stem cell activity to differentiate into neural and vascular lineage cells.

    PubMed

    Nakagomi, Takayuki; Kubo, Shuji; Nakano-Doi, Akiko; Sakuma, Rika; Lu, Shan; Narita, Aya; Kawahara, Maiko; Taguchi, Akihiko; Matsuyama, Tomohiro

    2015-06-01

    Brain vascular pericytes (PCs) are a key component of the blood-brain barrier (BBB)/neurovascular unit, along with neural and endothelial cells. Besides their crucial role in maintaining the BBB, increasing evidence shows that PCs have multipotential stem cell activity. However, their multipotency has not been considered in the pathological brain, such as after an ischemic stroke. Here, we examined whether brain vascular PCs following ischemia (iPCs) have multipotential stem cell activity and differentiate into neural and vascular lineage cells to reconstruct the BBB/neurovascular unit. Using PCs extracted from ischemic regions (iPCs) from mouse brains and human brain PCs cultured under oxygen/glucose deprivation, we show that PCs developed stemness presumably through reprogramming. The iPCs revealed a complex phenotype of angioblasts, in addition to their original mesenchymal properties, and multidifferentiated into cells from both a neural and vascular lineage. These data indicate that under ischemic/hypoxic conditions, PCs can acquire multipotential stem cell activity and can differentiate into major components of the BBB/neurovascular unit. Thus, these findings support the novel concept that iPCs can contribute to both neurogenesis and vasculogenesis at the site of brain injuries. © 2015 AlphaMed Press.

  13. NASA Lunar Base Wireless System Propagation Analysis

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hwu, Shian U.; Upanavage, Matthew; Sham, Catherine C.

    2007-01-01

    There have been many radio wave propagation studies using both experimental and theoretical techniques over the recent years. However, most of studies have been in support of commercial cellular phone wireless applications. The signal frequencies are mostly at the commercial cellular and Personal Communications Service bands. The antenna configurations are mostly one on a high tower and one near the ground to simulate communications between a cellular base station and a mobile unit. There are great interests in wireless communication and sensor systems for NASA lunar missions because of the emerging importance of establishing permanent lunar human exploration bases. Because of the specific lunar terrain geometries and RF frequencies of interest to the NASA missions, much of the published literature for the commercial cellular and PCS bands of 900 and 1800 MHz may not be directly applicable to the lunar base wireless system and environment. There are various communication and sensor configurations required to support all elements of a lunar base. For example, the communications between astronauts, between astronauts and the lunar vehicles, between lunar vehicles and satellites on the lunar orbits. There are also various wireless sensor systems among scientific, experimental sensors and data collection ground stations. This presentation illustrates the propagation analysis of the lunar wireless communication and sensor systems taking into account the three dimensional terrain multipath effects. It is observed that the propagation characteristics are significantly affected by the presence of the lunar terrain. The obtained results indicate the lunar surface material, terrain geometry and antenna location are the important factors affecting the propagation characteristics of the lunar wireless systems. The path loss can be much more severe than the free space propagation and is greatly affected by the antenna height, surface material and operating frequency. The results from this paper are important for the lunar wireless system link margin analysis in order to determine the limits on the reliable communication range, achievable data rate and RF coverage performance at planned lunar base work sites.

  14. How Does Cash and Counseling Affect Costs?

    PubMed Central

    Dale, Stacy B; Brown, Randall S

    2007-01-01

    Objective To test the effect of a consumer-directed model (Cash and Counseling) of Medicaid personal care services (PCS) or home-and community-based waiver services (HCBS) on the cost of Medicaid services. Data Sources/Study Setting Medicaid claims data were collected for all enrollees in the Cash and Counseling demonstration. Demonstration enrollees included those eligible for PCS (in Arkansas), those assessed to receive such services (in New Jersey), and recipients of Medicaid HCBS (in Florida). Enrollment occurred from December 1998 through April 2001. The follow-up period covered up to 24 months after enrollment. Study Design Demonstration volunteers were randomly assigned to have the option to participate in Cash and Counseling (the treatment group), or to receive Medicaid services as usual from an agency (the control group). Ordinary least squares regressions were used to estimate the effect of the program on costs for Medicaid PCS/waiver services and other Medicaid services, while controlling for consumers' preenrollment characteristics and preenrollment Medicaid spending. Models were estimated separately for nonelderly and elderly adults in each state and for children in Florida. Data Extraction Methods Each state supplied claims data for demonstration enrollees. Principal Findings Largely because the program increased consumers' ability to get the authorized amount of paid care, expenditures for personal care/waiver services were higher for the treatment group than for the control group in each state and age group, except among the elderly in Florida. Higher costs for personal care/waiver services were partially offset by savings in other Medicaid services, particularly those related to long-term care. During year 1, total Medicaid costs were generally higher for the treatment group than for the control group, with treatment–control cost differences ranging from 1 percent (and statistically insignificant) for the elderly in Florida to 17 percent for the elderly in Arkansas. In year 2, these cost differences were generally greater than in year 1. Only in Arkansas did the treatment–control difference in total cost shrink over time—to less than 5 percent (and statistically insignificant) in year 2. Conclusions Medicaid costs were generally higher under Cash and Counseling because those in the traditional system did not get the services they were entitled to. Compared with the treatment group, (1) control group members were less likely to receive any services at all (despite being authorized for them), and (2) service recipients received a lower proportion of the amount of care that was authorized. In addition, a flaw in Florida's reassessment procedures led to treatment group members receiving more generous benefit amounts than control group members. To keep total Medicaid costs per recipient at the level incurred under the traditional system, consumer-directed programs need to be carefully designed and closely monitored. PMID:17244294

  15. How does Cash and Counseling affect costs?

    PubMed

    Dale, Stacy B; Brown, Randall S

    2007-02-01

    To test the effect of a consumer-directed model (Cash and Counseling) of Medicaid personal care services (PCS) or home- and community-based waiver services (HCBS) on the cost of Medicaid services. Medicaid claims data were collected for all enrollees in the Cash and Counseling demonstration. Demonstration enrollees included those eligible for PCS (in Arkansas), those assessed to receive such services (in New Jersey), and recipients of Medicaid HCBS (in Florida). Enrollment occurred from December 1998 through April 2001. The follow-up period covered up to 24 months after enrollment. Demonstration volunteers were randomly assigned to have the option to participate in Cash and Counseling (the treatment group), or to receive Medicaid services as usual from an agency (the control group). Ordinary least squares regressions were used to estimate the effect of the program on costs for Medicaid PCS/waiver services and other Medicaid services, while controlling for consumers' preenrollment characteristics and preenrollment Medicaid spending. Models were estimated separately for nonelderly and elderly adults in each state and for children in Florida. Each state supplied claims data for demonstration enrollees. Largely because the program increased consumers' ability to get the authorized amount of paid care, expenditures for personal care/waiver services were higher for the treatment group than for the control group in each state and age group, except among the elderly in Florida. Higher costs for personal care/waiver services were partially offset by savings in other Medicaid services, particularly those related to long-term care. During year 1, total Medicaid costs were generally higher for the treatment group than for the control group, with treatment-control cost differences ranging from 1 percent (and statistically insignificant) for the elderly in Florida to 17 percent for the elderly in Arkansas. In year 2, these cost differences were generally greater than in year 1. Only in Arkansas did the treatment-control difference in total cost shrink over time-to less than 5 percent (and statistically insignificant) in year 2. Medicaid costs were generally higher under Cash and Counseling because those in the traditional system did not get the services they were entitled to. Compared with the treatment group, (1) control group members were less likely to receive any services at all (despite being authorized for them), and (2) service recipients received a lower proportion of the amount of care that was authorized. In addition, a flaw in Florida's reassessment procedures led to treatment group members receiving more generous benefit amounts than control group members. To keep total Medicaid costs per recipient at the level incurred under the traditional system, consumer-directed programs need to be carefully designed and closely monitored.

  16. Error monitoring issues for common channel signaling

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hou, Victor T.; Kant, Krishna; Ramaswami, V.; Wang, Jonathan L.

    1994-04-01

    Motivated by field data which showed a large number of link changeovers and incidences of link oscillations between in-service and out-of-service states in common channel signaling (CCS) networks, a number of analyses of the link error monitoring procedures in the SS7 protocol were performed by the authors. This paper summarizes the results obtained thus far and include the following: (1) results of an exact analysis of the performance of the error monitoring procedures under both random and bursty errors; (2) a demonstration that there exists a range of error rates within which the error monitoring procedures of SS7 may induce frequent changeovers and changebacks; (3) an analysis of the performance ofthe SS7 level-2 transmission protocol to determine the tolerable error rates within which the delay requirements can be met; (4) a demonstration that the tolerable error rate depends strongly on various link and traffic characteristics, thereby implying that a single set of error monitor parameters will not work well in all situations; (5) some recommendations on a customizable/adaptable scheme of error monitoring with a discussion on their implementability. These issues may be particularly relevant in the presence of anticipated increases in SS7 traffic due to widespread deployment of Advanced Intelligent Network (AIN) and Personal Communications Service (PCS) as well as for developing procedures for high-speed SS7 links currently under consideration by standards bodies.

  17. Research to Improve Emotional Health and Quality of Life Among Service Members with Disabilities (RESTORE LIVES)

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2013-10-01

    reduce PCS severity ( Comper , Bisschop, Carnide, & Tricco, 2005; Mittenberg, Tremont, Zielinski, Fichera, & Rayls, 1996). Typically, psychoeducational...Rehabilitation, 22, 257–266. Comper , P., Bisschop, S. M., Carnide, N., & Tricco, A. (2005). A systematic review of treat- ments for mild traumatic brain

  18. 47 CFR 24.2 - Other applicable rule parts.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... procedures concerning the marketing and importation of radio frequency devices, and for obtaining equipment... conditions relating to the marketing of part 15 devices. Unlicensed PCS devices operate under subpart D of... towers. (g) Part 20 of this chapter governs commercial mobile radio services. (h) Part 21. This part...

  19. 47 CFR 20.6 - CMRS spectrum aggregation limit.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false CMRS spectrum aggregation limit. 20.6 Section... COMMERCIAL MOBILE SERVICES § 20.6 CMRS spectrum aggregation limit. (a) Spectrum limitation. No licensee in... broadband PCS, cellular, and SMR spectrum regulated as CMRS with significant overlap in any geographic area...

  20. 47 CFR 20.6 - CMRS spectrum aggregation limit.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 2 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false CMRS spectrum aggregation limit. 20.6 Section... COMMERCIAL MOBILE SERVICES § 20.6 CMRS spectrum aggregation limit. (a) Spectrum limitation. No licensee in... broadband PCS, cellular, and SMR spectrum regulated as CMRS with significant overlap in any geographic area...

  1. Designing e-Education Supports in e-Health Based Systems

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Nicholas, Ikhu-Omoregbe

    2008-01-01

    The inadequate availability of medical information has often made health care services in many developing countries cumbersome with enormous paper work, waste of life, time and resources, long queues, and ineffective treatment procedures. The use of mobile technology devices such as Personal Digital Assistants, Cell phone, Tablet PCs, etc. for…

  2. Taming the Wireless Frontier: PDAs, Tablets, and Laptops at Home on the Range.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Williams, Joe

    2003-01-01

    Explains how Texas A&M University libraries developed a wireless network, including problems encountered, and describes three wireless services currently being delivered using Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs), tablet PCs, and wireless laptop computers. Topics include costs versus value; data security and access; wireless access points;…

  3. Is there a correlation between physicians' clinical impressions and patients' perceptions of change? Use of the Perceived Change Scale with inpatients with mental disorders.

    PubMed

    Pavan, Gabriela; Godoy, Julia Almeida; Monteiro, Ricardo Tavares; Moreschi, Hugo Karling; Nogueira, Eduardo Lopes; Spanemberg, Lucas

    2016-01-01

    Assessment of the results of treatment for mental disorders becomes more complete when the patient's perspective is incorporated. Here, we aimed to evaluate the psychometric properties and application of the Perceived Change Scale - Patient version (PCS-P) in a sample of inpatients with mental disorders. One hundred and ninety-one psychiatric inpatients answered the PCS-P and the Patients' Satisfaction with Mental Health Services Scale (SATIS) and were evaluated in terms of clinical and sociodemographic data. An exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was performed and internal consistency was calculated. The clinical impressions of the patient, family, and physician were correlated with the patient's perception of change. The EFA indicated a psychometrically suitable four-factor solution. The PCS-P exhibited a coherent relationship with SATIS and had a Cronbach's alpha value of 0.856. No correlations were found between the physician's clinical global impression of improvement and the patient's perception of change, although a moderate positive correlation was found between the patients' clinical global impression of improvement and the change perceived by the patient. The PCS-P exhibited adequate psychometric proprieties in a sample of inpatients with mental disorders. The patient's perception of change is an important dimension for evaluation of outcomes in the treatment of mental disorders and differs from the physician's clinical impression of improvement. Evaluation of positive and negative perceptions of the various dimensions of the patient's life enables more precise consideration of the patient's priorities and interests.

  4. Searching the Internet for information on prostate cancer screening: an assessment of quality.

    PubMed

    Ilic, Dragan; Risbridger, Gail; Green, Sally

    2004-07-01

    To identify how on-line information relating to prostate cancer screening (PCS) is best sourced, whether through general, medical, or meta-search engines, and to assess the quality of that information. Websites providing information about PCS were searched across 15 search engines representing three distinct types: general, medical, and meta-search engines. The quality of on-line information was assessed using the DISCERN quality assessment tool. Quality performance characteristics were analyzed by performing Mann-Whitney U tests. Search engine efficiency was measured by each search query as a percentage of the relevant websites included for analysis from the total returned and analyzed by performing Kruskal-Wallis analysis of variance. Of 6690 websites reviewed, 84 unique websites were identified as providing information relevant to PCS. General and meta-search engines were significantly more efficient at retrieving relevant information on PCS compared with medical search engines. The quality of information was variable, with most of a poor standard. Websites that provided referral links to other resources and a citation of evidence provided a significantly better quality of information. In contrast, websites offering a direct service were more likely to provide a significantly poorer quality of information. The current lack of a clear consensus on guidelines and recommendation in published data is also reflected by the variable quality of information found on-line. Specialized medical search engines were no more likely to retrieve relevant, high-quality information than general or meta-search engines.

  5. Mortality differences between self-employed and paid employees: a 5-year follow-up study of the working population in Sweden

    PubMed Central

    Toivanen, Susanna; Griep, Rosane Härter; Mellner, Christin; Vinberg, Stig; Eloranta, Sandra

    2016-01-01

    Objectives Analyse mortality differences between self-employed and paid employees with a focus on industrial sector, educational level and gender using Swedish register data. Methods A cohort of the total working population (4 776 135 individuals; 7.2% self-employed; 18–100 years of age at baseline 2003) in Sweden with a 5-year follow-up (2004–2008) for all-cause and cause-specific mortality (57 743 deaths). Self-employed individuals were categorised as sole proprietors or limited liability company (LLC) owners according to their enterprise's legal form. Cox proportional hazards models were applied to compare mortality rates between sole proprietors, LLC owners and paid employees, adjusted for sociodemographic confounders. Results Mortality from cardiovascular diseases was 16% lower and from suicide 26% lower among LLC owners than among paid employees, adjusted for confounders. Within the industrial category, all-cause mortality was 13–15% lower among sole proprietors and LLC owners compared with employees in manufacturing and mining (MM) as well as personal and cultural services (PCS), and 11–20% higher in sole proprietors in trade, transport and communication and the welfare industry (W). A significant three-way interaction indicated 17–23% lower all-cause mortality among male LLC owners in MM and female sole proprietors in PCS, and 50% higher mortality in female sole proprietors in W than in employees in the same industries. Conclusions Mortality differences between self-employed individuals and paid employees vary by the legal form of self-employment, across industries, and by gender. Differences in work environment exposures and working conditions, varying market competition across industries and gender segregation in the labour market are potential mechanisms underlying these findings. PMID:27443155

  6. What happens when pharmaceuticals meet colloids.

    PubMed

    Xing, Yingna; Chen, Xijuan; Zhuang, Jie; Chen, Xin

    2015-12-01

    Pharmaceuticals (PCs) have been widely detected in natural environment due to agricultural application of reclaimed water, sludge and animal wastes. Their potential risks to various ecosystems and even to human health have caused great concern; however, little was known about their environmental behaviors. Colloids (such as clays, metal oxides, and particulate organics) are kind of substances that are active and widespread in the environment. When PCs meet colloids, their interaction may influence the fate, transport, and toxicity of PCs. This review summarizes the progress of studies on the role of colloids in mediating the environmental behaviors of PCs. Synthesized results showed that colloids can adsorb PCs mainly through ion exchange, complexation and non-electrostatic interactions. During this process the structure of colloids and the stability of PCs may be changed. The adsorbed PCs may have higher risks to induce antibiotic resistance; besides, their transport may also be altered considering they have great chance to move with colloids. Solution conditions (such as pH, ionic strength, and cations) could influence these interactions between PCs and colloids, as they can change the forms of PCs and alter the primary forces between PCs and colloids in the solution. It could be concluded that PCs in natural soils could bind with colloids and then co-transport during the processes of irrigation, leaching, and erosion. Therefore, colloid-PC interactions need to be understood for risk assessment of PCs and the best management practices of various ecosystems (such as agricultural and wetland systems).

  7. DDN (Defense Data Network) Protocol Implementations and Vendors Guide

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1987-08-01

    length. Lower rates can be selected or determined by attached modem types 303, 209, V.35, or 188-114. Units are in pairs, one at each end of the...ECUs communicate with the IMP via direct cable or modems . DOCUMENTATION: Fully documented vendor product; descriptive literature available...terminals, PCs and modems to an Ethernet. The device can support up to 80 lines and 2 parallel printers. Full domain naming is supported as well as

  8. Sumoylation of FOXP2 regulates motor function and vocal communication through Purkinje cell development

    PubMed Central

    Usui, Noriyoshi; Co, Marissa; Harper, Matthew; Rieger, Michael A.; Dougherty, Joseph D.; Konopka, Genevieve

    2016-01-01

    Background Mutations in the gene encoding the transcription factor forkhead box P2, FOXP2, result in brain developmental abnormalities including reduced gray matter in both human patients and rodent models, and speech and language deficits. However, neither the region-specific function of FOXP2 in the brain, in particular the cerebellum, nor the effects of any post-translational modifications of FOXP2 in the brain and disorders have been explored. Methods We characterized sumoylation of FOXP2 biochemically, and analyzed the region-specific function and sumoylation of FOXP2 in the developing mouse cerebellum. Using in utero electroporation to manipulate the sumoylation-state of Foxp2 as well as Foxp2 expression levels in Purkinje cells (PCs) of the cerebellum in vivo, we reduced Foxp2 expression approximately 40% in the mouse cerebellum. Such a reduction approximates the haploinsufficiency observed in human patients who demonstrate speech and language impairments. Results We identified sumoylation of FOXP2 at K674 (K673 in mouse) in the cerebellum of neonates. In vitro co-immunoprecipitation and in vivo colocalization experiments suggest that PIAS3 acts as the SUMO E3 ligase for FOXP2 sumoylation. This sumoylation modifies transcriptional regulation by FOXP2. We demonstrate that Foxp2 sumoylation is required for regulation of cerebellar motor function and vocal communication, likely through dendritic outgrowth and arborization of PCs in the mouse cerebellum. Conclusions Sumoylation of Foxp2 in neonatal mouse cerebellum regulates PC development as well as motor functions and vocal communication, demonstrating evidence for sumoylation in regulating mammalian behaviors. PMID:27009683

  9. Deletion of phytochelatin synthase modulates the metal accumulation pattern of cadmium exposed C. elegans

    DOE PAGES

    Essig, Yona J.; Webb, Samuel M.; Stürzenbaum, Stephen R.

    2016-02-19

    Here, environmental metal pollution is a growing health risk to flora and fauna. It is therefore important to fully elucidate metal detoxification pathways. Phytochelatin synthase (PCS), an enzyme involved in the biosynthesis of phytochelatins (PCs), plays an important role in cadmium detoxification. The PCS and PCs are however not restricted to plants, but are also present in some lower metazoans. The model nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, for example, contains a fully functional phytochelatin synthase and phytochelatin pathway. By means of a transgenic nematode strain expressing a pcs-1 promoter-tagged GFP ( pcs-1::GFP) and a pcs-1 specific qPCR assay, further evidence is presentedmore » that the expression of the C. elegans phytochelatin synthase gene (pcs-1) is transcriptionally non-responsive to a chronic (48 h) insult of high levels of zinc (500 μM) or acute (3 h) exposures to high levels of cadmium (300 μM). However, the accumulation of cadmium, but not zinc, is dependent on the pcs-1 status of the nematode. Synchrotron based X-ray fluorescence imaging uncovered that the cadmium body burden increased significantly in the pcs-1(tm1748) knockout allele. Taken together, this suggests that whilst the transcription of pcs-1 may not be mediated by an exposure zinc or cadmium, it is nevertheless an integral part of the cadmium detoxification pathway in C. elegans.« less

  10. Interferon-γ converts human microvascular pericytes into negative regulators of alloimmunity through induction of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1

    PubMed Central

    Liu, Rebecca; Manes, Thomas D.; Qin, Lingfeng; Tietjen, Gregory T.; Broecker, Verena; Fang, Caodi; Xie, Catherine; Chen, Ping-Min; Kirkiles-Smith, Nancy C.; Jane-Wit, Dan; Pober, Jordan S.

    2018-01-01

    Early acute rejection of human allografts is mediated by circulating alloreactive host effector memory T cells (TEM). TEM infiltration typically occurs across graft postcapillary venules and involves sequential interactions with graft-derived endothelial cells (ECs) and pericytes (PCs). While the role of ECs in allograft rejection has been extensively studied, contributions of PCs to this process are largely unknown. This study aimed to characterize the effects and mechanisms of interactions between human PCs and allogeneic TEM. We report that unstimulated PCs, like ECs, can directly present alloantigen to TEM, but while IFN-γ–activated ECs (γ-ECs) show increased ability to stimulate alloreactive T cells, IFN-γ–activated PCs (γ-PCs) instead suppress TEM proliferation but not cytokine production or signaling. RNA sequencing analysis of PCs, γ-PCs, ECs, and γ-ECs reveal induction of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) in γ-PCs to significantly higher levels than in γ-ECs that correlates with tryptophan depletion in vitro. Consistently, shRNA knockdown of IDO1 markedly reduces γ-PC–mediated immunoregulatory effects. Furthermore, human PCs express IDO1 in a skin allograft rejection humanized mouse model and in human renal allografts with acute T cell–mediated rejection. We conclude that immunosuppressive properties of human PCs are not intrinsic but instead result from IFN-γ–induced IDO1-mediated tryptophan depletion. PMID:29515027

  11. Deletion of phytochelatin synthase modulates the metal accumulation pattern of cadmium exposed C. elegans

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

    Essig, Yona J.; Webb, Samuel M.; Stürzenbaum, Stephen R.

    Here, environmental metal pollution is a growing health risk to flora and fauna. It is therefore important to fully elucidate metal detoxification pathways. Phytochelatin synthase (PCS), an enzyme involved in the biosynthesis of phytochelatins (PCs), plays an important role in cadmium detoxification. The PCS and PCs are however not restricted to plants, but are also present in some lower metazoans. The model nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, for example, contains a fully functional phytochelatin synthase and phytochelatin pathway. By means of a transgenic nematode strain expressing a pcs-1 promoter-tagged GFP ( pcs-1::GFP) and a pcs-1 specific qPCR assay, further evidence is presentedmore » that the expression of the C. elegans phytochelatin synthase gene (pcs-1) is transcriptionally non-responsive to a chronic (48 h) insult of high levels of zinc (500 μM) or acute (3 h) exposures to high levels of cadmium (300 μM). However, the accumulation of cadmium, but not zinc, is dependent on the pcs-1 status of the nematode. Synchrotron based X-ray fluorescence imaging uncovered that the cadmium body burden increased significantly in the pcs-1(tm1748) knockout allele. Taken together, this suggests that whilst the transcription of pcs-1 may not be mediated by an exposure zinc or cadmium, it is nevertheless an integral part of the cadmium detoxification pathway in C. elegans.« less

  12. [Intranet applications in radiology].

    PubMed

    Knopp, M V; von Hippel, G M; Koch, T; Knopp, M A

    2000-01-01

    The aim of the paper is to present the conceptual basis and capabilities of intranet applications in radiology. The intranet, which is the local brother of the internet can be readily realized using existing computer components and a network. All current computer operating systems support intranet applications which allow hard and software independent communication of text, images, video and sound with the use of browser software without dedicated programs on the individual personal computers. Radiological applications for text communication e.g. department specific bulletin boards and access to examination protocols; use of image communication for viewing and limited processing and documentation of radiological images can be achieved on decentralized PCs as well as speech communication for dictation, distribution of dictation and speech recognition. The intranet helps to optimize the organizational efficiency and cost effectiveness in the daily work of radiological departments in outpatients and hospital settings. The general interest in internet and intranet technology will guarantee its continuous development.

  13. Preparing neural stem/progenitor cells in PuraMatrix hydrogel for transplantation after brain injury in rats: A comparative methodological study.

    PubMed

    Aligholi, Hadi; Rezayat, Seyed Mahdi; Azari, Hassan; Ejtemaei Mehr, Shahram; Akbari, Mohammad; Modarres Mousavi, Seyed Mostafa; Attari, Fatemeh; Alipour, Fatemeh; Hassanzadeh, Gholamreza; Gorji, Ali

    2016-07-01

    Cultivation of neural stem/progenitor cells (NS/PCs) in PuraMatrix (PM) hydrogel is an option for stem cell transplantation. The efficacy of a novel method for placing adult rat NS/PCs in PM (injection method) was compared to encapsulation and surface plating approaches. In addition, the efficacy of injection method for transplantation of autologous NS/PCs was studied in a rat model of brain injury. NS/PCs were obtained from the subventricular zone (SVZ) and cultivated without (control) or with scaffold (three-dimensional cultures; 3D). The effect of different approaches on survival, proliferation, and differentiation of NS/PCs were investigated. In in vivo study, brain injury was induced 45 days after NS/PCs were harvested from the SVZ and phosphate buffered saline, PM, NS/PCs, or PM+NS/PCs were injected into the brain lesion. There was an increase in cell viability and proliferation after injection and surface plating of NS/PCs compared to encapsulation and neural differentiation markers were expressed seven days after culturing the cells. Using injection method, transplantation of NS/PCs cultured in PM resulted in significant reduction of lesion volume, improvement of neurological deficits, and enhancement of surviving cells. In addition, the transplanted cells could differentiate in to neurons, astrocytes, or oligodendrocytes. Our results indicate that the injection and surface plating methods enhanced cell survival and proliferation of NS/PCs and suggest the injection method as a promising approach for transplantation of NS/PCs in brain injury. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  14. Functional characterization of an unusual phytochelatin synthase, LjPCS3, of Lotus japonicus.

    PubMed

    Ramos, Javier; Naya, Loreto; Gay, Marina; Abián, Joaquín; Becana, Manuel

    2008-09-01

    In plants and many other organisms, phytochelatin synthase (PCS) catalyzes the synthesis of phytochelatins from glutathione in the presence of certain metals and metalloids. We have used budding yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) as a heterologous system to characterize two PCS proteins, LjPCS1 and LjPCS3, of the model legume Lotus japonicus. Initial experiments revealed that the metal tolerance of yeast cells in vivo depends on the concentrations of divalent cations in the growth medium. Detailed in vivo (intact cells) and in vitro (broken cells) assays of PCS activity were performed with yeast expressing the plant enzymes, and values of phytochelatin production for each metal tested were normalized with respect to those of cadmium to correct for the lower expression level of LjPCS3. Our results showed that lead was the best activator of LjPCS1 in the in vitro assay, whereas, for both assays, arsenic, iron, and aluminum were better activators of LjPCS3 and mercury was similarly active with the two enzymes. Most interestingly, zinc was a powerful activator, especially of LjPCS3, when assayed in vivo, whereas copper and silver were the strongest activators in the in vitro assay. We conclude that the in vivo and in vitro assays are useful and complementary to assess the response of LjPCS1 and LjPCS3 to a wide range of metals and that the differences in the C-terminal domains of the two proteins are responsible for their distinct expression levels or stabilities in heterologous systems and patterns of metal activation.

  15. Quality research in radiation oncology: a self-improvement initiative 30 years ahead of its time?

    PubMed

    Wilson, J Frank; Owen, Jean

    2005-12-01

    The quality of cancer care in the United States should be better than it is. Society has demanded improvement, but much work remains to be done to define and measure both the current quality of care and the steps needed to optimize such care. Various public and private organizations are directing early efforts toward attempts to determine the quality of selected oncology services as a first step in a broad-based quality improvement process. In contrast, the ACR Patterns of Care Study (PCS) for over 30 years has relied on exemplary voluntary engagement by American radiation oncologists in critical self-assessment and self-improvement as a highly effective pathway to improved practice quality. This article provides an overview of the documented historical and recent impact of PCS research findings on practice and describes the deliberate adaptation of the PCS identity and methodology to the quality-sensitive national environment with the new project name Quality Research in Radiation Oncology. The article concludes with a discussion of the rationale for continuing this unique quality improvement initiative and some of the challenges to this imperative that are being faced.

  16. Year 2000 compliance issues.

    PubMed

    1999-03-01

    This month, we continue our coverage of the year 2000 (Y2K) problem as it affects healthcare facilities and the professionals who work in them. We present the following articles: "Checking PCs for Y2K Compliance"--In this article, we describe the probable sources of Y2K-related errors in PCs and present simple procedures for testing the Y2K compliance of PCs and application software. "Y2K Assessment Equipment Expectations"--In this article, we review the Y2K compliance data from a small sampling of hospitals to help answer the question "What percentage of medical equipment will likely be susceptible to Y2K problems?" "Y2K Labeling of Medical Devices"--In this article, we discuss the pros and cons of instituting a program to label each medical device with its Y2K status. Also in this section, we present an updated list of organizations that support ECRI's Position Statement on the testing of medical devices for Y2K compliance, which we published in the December 1998 issue of Health Devices (27[12]). And we remind readers of the services ECRI can offer to help healthcare institutions cope with the Y2K problem.

  17. Local birthing services for rural women: Adaptation of a rural New South Wales maternity service.

    PubMed

    Durst, Michelle; Rolfe, Margaret; Longman, Jo; Robin, Sarah; Dhnaram, Beverley; Mullany, Kathryn; Wright, Ian; Barclay, Lesley

    2016-12-01

    To describe the outcomes of a public hospital maternity unit in rural New South Wales (NSW) following the adaptation of the service from an obstetrician and general practitioner-obstetrician (GPO)-led birthing service to a low-risk midwifery group practice (MGP) model of care with a planned caesarean section service (PCS). A retrospective descriptive study using quantitative methodology. Maternity unit in a small public hospital in rural New South Wales, Australia. Data were extracted from the ward-based birth register for 1172 births at the service between July 2007 and June 2012. Birth numbers, maternal characteristics, labour, birthing and neonatal outcomes. There were 750 births over 29 months in GPO and 277 and 145 births over 31 months in MGP and PCS, respectively, totalling 422 births following the change in model of care. The GPO had 553 (73.7%) vaginal births and 197 (26.3%) caesarean section (CS) births (139 planned and 58 unplanned). There were almost universal normal vaginal births in MGP (>99% or 276). For normal vaginal births, more women in MGP had no analgesia (45.3% versus 25.1%) or non-invasive analgesia (47.9% versus 38.6%) and episiotomy was less common in MGP than GPO (1.9% versus 3.4%). Neonatal outcomes were similar for both groups with no difference between Apgar scores at 5 min, neonatal resuscitations or transfer to high-level special care nurseries. This study demonstrates how a rural maternity service maintained quality care outcomes for low-risk women following the adaptation from a GPO to an MGP service. © 2016 The Authors. Australian Journal of Rural Health published by John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd on behalf of National Rural Health Alliance.

  18. 78 FR 70558 - Review of Proposed Changes with ICD-10-CM/PCS; Conversion of Quality IndicatorsTM

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-11-26

    ... DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality Review of... Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), HHS. ACTION: Notice of request for public comments. SUMMARY: The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) seeks comments on the proposed conversion of the AHRQ...

  19. 47 CFR 24.238 - Emission limitations for Broadband PCS equipment.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... provided the measured power is integrated over the full required measurement bandwidth (i.e. 1 MHz or 1... files and disclose it to prospective assignees or transferees and, upon request, to the FCC. (d... results in interference to users of another radio service, the FCC may require a greater attenuation of...

  20. Installation and management of the SPS and LEP control system computers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bland, Alastair

    1994-12-01

    Control of the CERN SPS and LEP accelerators and service equipment on the two CERN main sites is performed via workstations, file servers, Process Control Assemblies (PCAs) and Device Stub Controllers (DSCs). This paper describes the methods and tools that have been developed to manage the file servers, PCAs and DSCs since the LEP startup in 1989. There are five operational DECstation 5000s used as file servers and boot servers for the PCAs and DSCs. The PCAs consist of 90 SCO Xenix 386 PCs, 40 LynxOS 486 PCs and more than 40 older NORD 100s. The DSCs consist of 90 OS-968030 VME crates and 10 LynxOS 68030 VME crates. In addition there are over 100 development systems. The controls group is responsible for installing the computers, starting all the user processes and ensuring that the computers and the processes run correctly. The operators in the SPS/LEP control room and the Services control room have a Motif-based X window program which gives them, in real time, the state of all the computers and allows them to solve problems or reboot them.

  1. Spectrum of outcomes following traumatic brain injury-relationship between functional impairment and health-related quality of life.

    PubMed

    Tsyben, Anastasia; Guilfoyle, Mathew; Timofeev, Ivan; Anwar, Fahim; Allanson, Judith; Outtrim, Joanne; Menon, David; Hutchinson, Peter; Helmy, Adel

    2018-01-01

    The outcome following traumatic brain injury (TBI) is heterogeneous and poorly defined and physical disability scales like the extended Glasgow Outcome Score (GOSE) while providing valuation information in terms of broad categorisation of outcome are unlikely to capture the full spectrum of deficits. Quality of life questionnaires such as SF-36 are emerging as potential tools to help characterise factors important to patients' recovery. This study assessed the association between physical disability and subjective health rating. The relationship is of value as it may help evaluate the impact of TBI on patients' lives and facilitate the delivery of appropriate neuro-rehabilitation services. A single-centre retrospective study was undertaken to assess the relationship between physical outcome as measured by GOSE and quality of life captured by the SF-36 questionnaire. Cronbach's alpha was calculated for each of the eight SF-36 domains to measure internal consistency of the test. Multivariate analysis of variance was conducted to look at the association between GOSE and the physical (PCS) and mental (MCS) component scores on the SF-36. Finally, we performed a generalised linear mixed model (GLMM) to assess the relative contribution of GOSE score, age at the time of trauma, sex and TBI duration towards MCS and PCS rating. There is a statistically significant difference in the MCS and PCS scores based on patients' GOSE scores. The mean scores of the eight SF-36 domains showed significant association with GOSE. GLMM demonstrated that GOSE was the strongest predictor of PCS and MCS. Age was an important variable in the PCS score while time following trauma was a significant predictor of MCS rating. This study highlights that patients' physical outcome following TBI is a strong predictor of the subjective mental and physical health. Nevertheless, there remains tremendous variability in individual SF-36 scores for each GOSE category, highlighting that additional factors play a role in determining quality of life.

  2. (abstract) Experimental Results From Internetworking Data Applications Over Various Wireless Networks Using a Single Flexible Error Control Protocol

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Kanai, T.; Kramer, M.; McAuley, A. J.; Nowack, S.; Pinck, D. S.; Ramirez, G.; Stewart, I.; Tohme, H.; Tong, L.

    1995-01-01

    This paper describes results from several wireless field trials in New Jersey, California, and Colorado, conducted jointly by researchers at Bellcore, JPL, and US West over the course of 1993 and 1994. During these trials, applications communicated over multiple wireless networks including satellite, low power PCS, high power cellular, packet data, and the wireline Public Switched Telecommunications Network (PSTN). Key goals included 1) designing data applications and an API suited to mobile users, 2) investigating internetworking issues, 3) characterizing wireless networks under various field conditions, and 4) comparing the performance of different protocol mechanisms over the diverse networks and applications. We describe experimental results for different protocol mechanisms and parameters, such as acknowledgment schemes and packet sizes. We show the need for powerful error control mechanisms such as selective acknowledgements and combining data from multiple transmissions. We highlight the possibility of a common protocol for all wireless networks, from micro-cellular PCS to satellite networks.

  3. Spontaneous emission of semiconductor quantum dots in inverse opal SiO2 photonic crystals at different temperatures.

    PubMed

    Yang, Peng; Yang, Yingshu; Wang, Yinghui; Gao, Jiechao; Sui, Ning; Chi, Xiaochun; Zou, Lu; Zhang, Han-Zhuang

    2016-02-01

    The photoluminescence (PL) characteristics of CdSe quantum dots (QDs) infiltrated into inverse opal SiO2 photonic crystals (PCs) are systemically studied. The special porous structure of inverse opal PCs enhanced the thermal exchange rate between the CdSe QDs and their surrounding environment. Finally, inverse opal SiO2 PCs suppressed the nonlinear PL enhancement of CdSe QDs in PCs excited by a continuum laser and effectively modulated the PL characteristics of CdSe QDs in PCs at high temperatures in comparison with that of CdSe QDs out of PCs. The final results are of benefit in further understanding the role of inverse opal PCs on the PL characteristics of QDs. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  4. Arabidopsis thaliana phytochelatin synthase 2 is constitutively active in vivo and can rescue the growth defect of the PCS1-deficient cad1-3 mutant on Cd-contaminated soil.

    PubMed

    Kühnlenz, Tanja; Schmidt, Holger; Uraguchi, Shimpei; Clemens, Stephan

    2014-08-01

    Phytochelatins play a key role in the detoxification of metals in plants and many other eukaryotes. Their formation is catalysed by phytochelatin synthases (PCS) in the presence of metal excess. It appears to be common among higher plants to possess two PCS genes, even though in Arabidopsis thaliana only AtPCS1 has been demonstrated to confer metal tolerance. Employing a highly sensitive quantification method based on ultraperformance electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry, we detected AtPCS2-dependent phytochelatin formation. Overexpression of AtPCS2 resulted in constitutive phytochelatin accumulation, i.e. in the absence of metal excess, both in planta and in a heterologous system. This indicates distinct enzymatic differences between AtPCS1 and AtPCS2. Furthermore, AtPCS2 was able to partially rescue the Cd hypersensitivity of the AtPCS1-deficient cad1-3 mutant in a liquid seedling assay, and, more importantly, when plants were grown on soil spiked with Cd to a level that is close to what can be found in agricultural soils. No rescue was found in vertical-plate assays, the most commonly used method to assess metal tolerance. Constitutive AtPCS2-dependent phytochelatin synthesis suggests a physiological role of AtPCS2 other than metal detoxification. The differences observed between wild-type plants and cad1-3 on Cd soil demonstrated: (i) the essentiality of phytochelatin synthesis for tolerating levels of Cd contamination that can naturally be encountered by plants outside of metal-rich habitats, and (ii) a contribution to Cd accumulation under these conditions. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Society for Experimental Biology.

  5. Morphologic and Biochemical Changes in Dogs After Portacaval Shunt Plus Bile Fistula or Ileal Bypass: Failure of Bile Fistula or Ileal Bypass to Prevent Hepatocyte Atrophy

    PubMed Central

    Thompson, Jon S.; Porter, Kendrick A.; Hayashida, Nobuo; McNamara, Donald J.; Parker, Thomas S.; Russell, William J. I.; Francavilla, Antonio; Starzl, Thomas E.

    2010-01-01

    External biliary fistula (BF) or ileal bypass (IB) was performed in dogs at the time of or 2 weeks after portacaval shunt (PCS). The pathologic changes in the dog livers 2 to 4 weeks later were compared to those caused by PCS alone. Histopathologic differences between PCS alone vs. PCS plus BF or IB could not be found. Thus, the experiments did not confirm recent observations by others in rats that BF prevents or reverses the hepatic injury of PCS. As estimated by plasma mevalonic acid determinations, the increase in hepatic cholesterol synthesis that is characteristic after BF or IB was suppressed in animals with PCS. BF and IB reduced but did not eliminate the postprandial elevation in serum bile acid that occurs after PCS. The findings have possible relevance in planning the treatment of patients with familial hypercholesterolemia with the combined use of PCS and IB. PMID:6862371

  6. Administration of platelet concentrates suspended in bicarbonated Ringer's solution in children who had platelet transfusion reactions.

    PubMed

    Kobayashi, J; Yanagisawa, R; Ono, T; Tatsuzawa, Y; Tokutake, Y; Kubota, N; Hidaka, E; Sakashita, K; Kojima, S; Shimodaira, S; Nakamura, T

    2018-02-01

    Adverse reactions to platelet transfusions are a problem. Children with primary haematological and malignant diseases may experience allergic transfusion reactions (ATRs) to platelet concentrates (PCs), which can be prevented by giving washed PCs. A new platelet additive solution, using bicarbonated Ringer's solution and acid-citrate-dextrose formula A (BRS-A), may be better for platelet washing and storage, but clinical data are scarce. A retrospective cohort study for consecutive cases was performed between 2013 and 2017. For 24 months, we transfused washed PCs containing BRS-A to children with primary haematological and malignant diseases and previous adverse reactions. Patients transfused with conventional PCs (containing residual plasma) were assigned as controls, and results were compared in terms of frequency of ATRs, corrected count increment (CCI) and occurrence of bleeding. We also studied children transfused with PCs washed by a different system as historical controls. Thirty-two patients received 377 conventional PC transfusions. ATRs occurred in 12 (37·5%) patients from transfused with 18 (4·8%) bags. Thirteen patients, who experienced reactions to regular PCs in plasma, then received 119 transfusion bags of washed PCs containing BRS-A, and none had ATRs to washed PCs containing BRS-A. Before study period, six patients transfused 137 classical washed PCs with different platelet additive solution, under same indication, ATRs occurred in one (16·7%) patient from transfused with one (0·7%) bags. CCIs (24 h) in were lower with classical washed PCs (1·26 ± 0·54) compared to regular PCs in plasma (2·07 ± 0·76) (P < 0·001), but there was no difference between washed PCs containing BRS-A (2·14 ± 0·77) and regular PCs (2·21 ± 0·79) (P = 0·769), and we saw no post-transfusion bleeding. Washed PCs containing BRS-A appear to prevent ATRs without loss of transfusion efficacy in children with primary haematological and malignant diseases. Their efficacy should be further evaluated through larger prospective clinical trials. © 2017 International Society of Blood Transfusion.

  7. DDN (Defense Data Network) Protocol Implementations and Vendors Guide,

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1986-08-01

    3000 feet) in length. Lower rates can be selected or determined by attached modem types 303, 209, V.35, or 188-114. Units are in pairs, one at each...each direction. ECUs communicate with the IMP via direct cable or modems . DOCUMENTATION: Fully documented vendor product; descriptive literature...application is the attachment of terminals, PCs and modems to an Ethernet. The device can support up to 80 lines and 2 parallel printers. Full domain naming

  8. Perseverative Cognitions and Stress Exposure: Comparing Relationships With Psychological Health Across a Diverse Adult Sample.

    PubMed

    Zawadzki, Matthew J; Sliwinski, Martin J; Smyth, Joshua M

    2018-03-29

    Both exposure to stress and perseverative cognitions (PCs)-repetitive cognitive representations of real or imagined stressors-are linked with poor psychological health. Yet, stress exposure and PCs are correlated, thus potentially obscuring any unique effects. The purpose of this paper is to concurrently test associations between stress exposure and PCs and psychological health to examine the independent relationship of each with psychological health. Moreover, we examined whether these relationships are similar across sex, age, and race. An adult community sample (n = 302) completed a measure of stress exposure, three PCs scales, and questionnaires assessing self-reported psychological health, including emotional well-being, vitality, social functioning, role limitations due to personal problems, subjective well-being, depressive symptoms, and poor sleep quality. Structural equation modeling was used to test a model in which both stress exposure and PCs predict psychological health. PCs consistently predicted all the psychological health outcomes, but stress was largely unrelated to the outcomes despite bivariate correlations suggesting a relationship. A follow-up model identified indirect effects of stress exposure on psychological health via PCs. Results were fairly consistent regardless of one's sex, age, or race. PCs robustly predicted all of the psychological health outcomes, intimating PCs as a common pathway to poor psychological health. Results have implications for stress interventions, including the need to address PCs after experiencing stress.

  9. Cultured Human Adipose Tissue Pericytes and Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Display a Very Similar Gene Expression Profile

    PubMed Central

    Malta, Tathiane Maistro; de Deus Wagatsuma, Virgínia Mara; Palma, Patrícia Viana Bonini; Araújo, Amélia Goes; Ribeiro Malmegrim, Kelen Cristina; Morato de Oliveira, Fábio; Panepucci, Rodrigo Alexandre; Silva, Wilson Araújo; Kashima Haddad, Simone; Covas, Dimas Tadeu

    2015-01-01

    Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are cultured cells that can give rise to mature mesenchymal cells under appropriate conditions and secrete a number of biologically relevant molecules that may play an important role in regenerative medicine. Evidence indicates that pericytes (PCs) correspond to mesenchymal stem cells in vivo and can give rise to MSCs when cultured, but a comparison between the gene expression profiles of cultured PCs (cPCs) and MSCs is lacking. We have devised a novel methodology to isolate PCs from human adipose tissue and compared cPCs to MSCs obtained through traditional methods. Freshly isolated PCs expressed CD34, CD140b, and CD271 on their surface, but not CD146. Both MSCs and cPCs were able to differentiate along mesenchymal pathways in vitro, displayed an essentially identical surface immunophenotype, and exhibited the ability to suppress CD3+ lymphocyte proliferation in vitro. Microarray expression data of cPCs and MSCs formed a single cluster among other cell types. Further analyses showed that the gene expression profiles of cPCs and MSCs are extremely similar, although MSCs differentially expressed endothelial cell (EC)-specific transcripts. These results confirm, using the power of transcriptomic analysis, that PCs give rise to MSCs and suggest that low levels of ECs may persist in MSC cultures established using traditional protocols. PMID:26192741

  10. Protein-bounded uremic toxin p-cresylsulfate induces vascular permeability alternations.

    PubMed

    Tang, Wei-Hua; Wang, Chao-Ping; Yu, Teng-Hung; Tai, Pei-Yang; Liang, Shih-Shin; Hung, Wei-Chin; Wu, Cheng-Ching; Huang, Sung-Hao; Lee, Yau-Jiunn; Chen, Shih-Chieh

    2018-06-01

    The goal of the present studies is to investigate that the impact of p-cresylsulfate (PCS) on the endothelial barrier integrity via in situ exposure and systemic exposure. Vascular permeability changes induced by local injection of PCS were evaluated by the techniques of both Evans blue (EB) and India ink tracer. Rats were intravenously injected with EB or India ink followed by intradermal injections of various doses of PCS (0, 0.4, 2, 10 and 50 µmol/site) on rat back skins. At different time points, skin EB was extracted and quantified. The administration of India ink was used to demonstrate leaky microvessels. Skin PCS levels were also determined by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. We also investigated whether the increased endothelial leakage occurred in the aortic endothelium in rats treated with 5/6 nephrectomy and intraperitoneal injection of PCS 50 mg/kg/day for 4 weeks. The aortic endothelial integrity was evaluated by increased immunoglobulin G (IgG) leakage. High doses of PCS, but not lower doses, significantly induced vascular leakage as compared to saline injection and EB leakage exhibited in time-dependent manner. A time-correlated increase in leaky microvessels was detected in the tissues examined. The injected PCS declined with time and displayed an inverse relationship with vascular leakage. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) rats administered with PCS, compared to control rats, had significantly higher serum levels of PCS and apparent IgG deposition in the aortic intima. Increased endothelial leakage induced by PCS in skin microvessels and the aorta of CKD rats suggests that the PCS-induced endothelial barrier dysfunction.

  11. The plantar calcaneal spur: a review of anatomy, histology, etiology and key associations.

    PubMed

    Kirkpatrick, Joshua; Yassaie, Omid; Mirjalili, Seyed Ali

    2017-06-01

    The plantar calcaneal spur (PCS) is a bony outgrowth from the calcaneal tuberosity and has been studied using various methods including cadavers, radiography, histology and surgery. However, there are currently a number of discrepancies in the literature regarding the anatomical relations, histological descriptions and clinical associations of PCS. Historically, authors have described the intrinsic muscles of the foot and/or the plantar fascia as attaching to the PCS. In this article we review the relationship between the PCS and surrounding soft tissues as well as examining the histology of the PCS. We identify a number of key associations with PCS, including age, weight, gender, arthritides, plantar fasciitis and foot position; these factors may function as risk factors in PCS formation. The etiology of these spurs is a contentious issue and it has been explained through a number of theories including the degenerative, inflammatory, traction, repetitive trauma, bone-formers and vertical compression theories. We review these and finish by looking clinically at the evidence that PCS causes heel pain. © 2017 Anatomical Society.

  12. Network Analysis Identifies Proinflammatory Plasma Cell Polarization for Secretion of ISG15 in Human Autoimmunity

    PubMed Central

    Care, Matthew A.; Stephenson, Sophie J.; Barnes, Nicholas A.; Fan, Im; Zougman, Alexandre; El-Sherbiny, Yasser M.; Vital, Edward M.; Westhead, David R.; Tooze, Reuben M.

    2016-01-01

    Plasma cells (PCs) as effectors of humoral immunity produce Igs to match pathogenic insult. Emerging data suggest more diverse roles exist for PCs as regulators of immune and inflammatory responses via secretion of factors other than Igs. The extent to which such responses are preprogrammed in B-lineage cells or can be induced in PCs by the microenvironment is unknown. In this study, we dissect the impact of IFNs on the regulatory networks of human PCs. We show that core PC programs are unaffected, whereas PCs respond to IFNs with distinctive transcriptional responses. The IFN-stimulated gene 15 (ISG15) system emerges as a major transcriptional output induced in a sustained fashion by IFN-α in PCs and linked both to intracellular conjugation and ISG15 secretion. This leads to the identification of ISG15-secreting plasmablasts/PCs in patients with active systemic lupus erythematosus. Thus, ISG15-secreting PCs represent a distinct proinflammatory PC subset providing an Ig-independent mechanism of PC action in human autoimmunity. PMID:27357150

  13. Expression of Caenorhabditis elegans PCS in the AtPCS1-deficient Arabidopsis thaliana cad1-3 mutant separates the metal tolerance and non-host resistance functions of phytochelatin synthases.

    PubMed

    Kühnlenz, Tanja; Westphal, Lore; Schmidt, Holger; Scheel, Dierk; Clemens, Stephan

    2015-11-01

    Phytochelatin synthases (PCS) play key roles in plant metal tolerance. They synthesize small metal-binding peptides, phytochelatins, under conditions of metal excess. Respective mutants are strongly cadmium and arsenic hypersensitive. However, their ubiquitous presence and constitutive expression had long suggested a more general function of PCS besides metal detoxification. Indeed, phytochelatin synthase1 from Arabidopsis thaliana (AtPCS1) was later implicated in non-host resistance. The two different physiological functions may be attributable to the two distinct catalytic activities demonstrated for AtPCS1, that is the dipeptidyl transfer onto an acceptor molecule in phytochelatin synthesis, and the proteolytic deglycylation of glutathione conjugates. In order to test this hypothesis and to possibly separate the two biological roles, we expressed a phylogenetically distant PCS from Caenorhabditis elegans in an AtPCS1 mutant. We confirmed the involvement of AtPCS1 in non-host resistance by showing that plants lacking the functional gene develop a strong cell death phenotype when inoculated with the potato pathogen Phytophthora infestans. Furthermore, we found that the C. elegans gene rescues phytochelatin synthesis and cadmium tolerance, but not the defect in non-host resistance. This strongly suggests that the second enzymatic function of AtPCS1, which remains to be defined in detail, is underlying the plant immunity function. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  14. Interleukin-17 Promotes Neutrophil-Mediated Immunity by Activating Microvascular Pericytes and Not Endothelium

    PubMed Central

    Liu, Rebecca; Lauridsen, Holly M.; Amezquita, Robert A.; Pierce, Richard W.; Jane-wit, Dan; Fang, Caodi; Pellowe, Amanda S.; Kirkiles-Smith, Nancy C.; Gonzalez, Anjelica L.; Pober, Jordan S.

    2016-01-01

    A classical hallmark of acute inflammation is neutrophil infiltration of tissues, a multi-step process that involves sequential cell-cell interactions of circulating leukocytes with interleukin (IL)-1- or tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF)-activated microvascular endothelial cells (ECs) and pericytes (PCs) that form the wall of the postcapillary venules. The initial infiltrating cells accumulate perivascularly in close proximity to PCs. IL-17, a pro-inflammatory cytokine that acts on target cells via a heterodimeric receptor formed by IL-17RA and IL-17RC subunits, also promotes neutrophilic inflammation but its effects on vascular cells are less clear. We report that both cultured human ECs and PCs strongly express IL-17RC and, while neither cell type expresses much IL-17RA, PCs express significantly more than ECs. IL-17, alone or synergistically with TNF, significantly alters inflammatory gene expression in cultured human PCs but not ECs. RNA-seq analysis identifies many IL-17-induced transcripts in PCs encoding proteins known to stimulate neutrophil-mediated immunity. Conditioned media (CM) from IL-17-activated PCs, but not ECs, induce pertussis toxin-sensitive neutrophil polarization, likely mediated by PC-secreted chemokines, and also stimulate neutrophil production of pro-inflammatory molecules, including TNF, IL-1α, IL-1β, and IL-8. Furthermore, IL-17-activated PCs but not ECs can prolong neutrophil survival by producing G-CSF and GM-CSF, delaying the mitochondria outer membrane permeabilization and caspase 9 activation. Importantly, neutrophils exhibit enhanced phagocytic capacity after activation by CM from IL-17-treated PCs. We conclude that PCs, not ECs, are the major target of IL-17 within the microvessel wall and that IL-17-activated PCs can modulate neutrophil functions within the perivascular tissue space. PMID:27534549

  15. Clinimetric properties of the Nepali version of the Pain Catastrophizing Scale in individuals with chronic pain

    PubMed Central

    Thibault, Pascal; Abbott, J Haxby; Jensen, Mark P

    2018-01-01

    Background Pain catastrophizing is an exaggerated negative cognitive response related to pain. It is commonly assessed using the Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS). Translation and validation of the scale in a new language would facilitate cross-cultural comparisons of the role that pain catastrophizing plays in patient function. Purpose The aim of this study was to translate and culturally adapt the PCS into Nepali (Nepali version of PCS [PCS-NP]) and evaluate its clinimetric properties. Methods We translated, cross-culturally adapted, and performed an exploratory factor analysis (EFA) of the PCS-NP in a sample of adults with chronic pain (N=143). We then confirmed the resulting factor model in a separate sample (N=272) and compared this model with 1-, 2-, and 3-factor models previously identified using confirmatory factor analyses (CFAs). We also computed internal consistencies, test–retest reliabilities, standard error of measurement (SEM), minimal detectable change (MDC), and limits of agreement with 95% confidence interval (LOA95%) of the PCS-NP scales. Concurrent validity with measures of depression, anxiety, and pain intensity was assessed by computing Pearson’s correlation coefficients. Results The PCS-NP was comprehensible and culturally acceptable. We extracted a two-factor solution using EFA and confirmed this model using CFAs in the second sample. Adequate fit was also found for a one-factor model and different two- and three-factor models based on prior studies. The PCS-NP scores evidenced excellent reliability and temporal stability, and demonstrated validity via moderate-to-strong associations with measures of depression, anxiety, and pain intensity. The SEM and MDC for the PCS-NP total score were 2.52 and 7.86, respectively (range of PCS scores 0–52). LOA95% was between −15.17 and +16.02 for the total PCS-NP scores. Conclusion The PCS-NP is a valid and reliable instrument to assess pain catastrophizing in Nepalese individuals with chronic pain. PMID:29430196

  16. Reconfigurable topological photonic crystal

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shalaev, Mikhail I.; Desnavi, Sameerah; Walasik, Wiktor; Litchinitser, Natalia M.

    2018-02-01

    Topological insulators are materials that conduct on the surface and insulate in their interior due to non-trivial topology of the band structure. The edge states on the interface between topological (non-trivial) and conventional (trivial) insulators are topologically protected from scattering due to structural defects and disorders. Recently, it was shown that photonic crystals (PCs) can serve as a platform for realizing a scatter-free propagation of light waves. In conventional PCs, imperfections, structural disorders, and surface roughness lead to significant losses. The breakthrough in overcoming these problems is likely to come from the synergy of the topological PCs and silicon-based photonics technology that enables high integration density, lossless propagation, and immunity to fabrication imperfections. For many applications, reconfigurability and capability to control the propagation of these non-trivial photonic edge states is essential. One way to facilitate such dynamic control is to use liquid crystals (LCs), which allow to modify the refractive index with external electric field. Here, we demonstrate dynamic control of topological edge states by modifying the refractive index of a LC background medium. Background index is changed depending on the orientation of a LC, while preserving the topology of the system. This results in a change of the spectral position of the photonic bandgap and the topological edge states. The proposed concept might be implemented using conventional semiconductor technology, and can be used for robust energy transport in integrated photonic devices, all-optical circuity, and optical communication systems.

  17. The Exercising Together Project: Design and recruitment for a randomized, controlled trial to determine the benefits of partnered strength training for couples coping with prostate cancer

    PubMed Central

    Winters-Stone, Kerri M.; Lyons, Karen S.; Nail, Lillian M.; Beer, Tomasz M.

    2011-01-01

    Prostate cancer can threaten quality of life for the patient and his spouse and the quality of his marital relationship. The purpose of our study is to evaluate the effects of “Exercising Together” – a partnered strength training program for married couples coping with prostate cancer – on the physical and emotional health of prostate cancer survivors (PCS) and their spouses and on marital quality. We are conducting a 6-month randomized controlled trial with two groups: 1) Exercising Together - a progressive, supervised strength training program and 2) a usual care control condition. The primary aims of this exploratory study are to: 1) Determine the effect of partnered strength training on physical and emotional health (muscle strength, physical function, body composition and self-report physical and mental health) in PCS, 2) Determine the effect of partnered strength training on physical and emotional health in spouses and 3) Explore the effect of partnered strength training on marital quality (incongruence, communication, relationship quality, intimacy) of the PCS and spouse. Target accrual has been met in this study with 64 couples enrolled and randomized to exercise (n=32) or usual care (n=32) groups. This study is the first to examine the feasibility of this exercise format in both the chronically ill patient and spouse and explore benefits at the individual and couple level. PMID:22101224

  18. The Exercising Together project: design and recruitment for a randomized, controlled trial to determine the benefits of partnered strength training for couples coping with prostate cancer.

    PubMed

    Winters-Stone, Kerri M; Lyons, Karen S; Nail, Lillian M; Beer, Tomasz M

    2012-03-01

    Prostate cancer can threaten quality of life for the patient and his spouse and the quality of his marital relationship. The purpose of our study is to evaluate the effects of "Exercising Together" - a partnered strength training program for married couples coping with prostate cancer - on the physical and emotional health of prostate cancer survivors (PCS) and their spouses and on marital quality. We are conducting a 6-month randomized controlled trial with two groups: 1) Exercising Together - a progressive, supervised strength training program and 2) a usual care control condition. The primary aims of this exploratory study are to: 1) Determine the effect of partnered strength training on physical and emotional health (muscle strength, physical function, body composition and self-report physical and mental health) in PCS, 2) Determine the effect of partnered strength training on physical and emotional health in spouses and 3) Explore the effect of partnered strength training on marital quality (incongruence, communication, relationship quality, intimacy) of the PCS and spouse. Target accrual has been met in this study with 64 couples enrolled and randomized to exercise (n=32) or usual care (n=32) groups. This study is the first to examine the feasibility of this exercise format in both the chronically ill patient and spouse and explore benefits at the individual and couple level. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  19. Education and referral criteria: impact on oncology referrals to palliative care.

    PubMed

    Reville, Barbara; Reifsnyder, JoAnne; McGuire, Deborah B; Kaiser, Karen; Santana, Abbie J

    2013-07-01

    To describe a quality improvement project involving education and referral criteria to influence oncology provider referrals to a palliative care service. A single group post-test only quasi-experimental design was used to evaluate palliative care service (PCS) referrals following an intervention consisting of a didactic presentation, education outreach visits (EOV) to key providers, and referral criteria. Data on patient demographics, cancer types, consult volume, reasons for referral, pre-consult length of stay, overall hospital stay, and discharge disposition were collected pre-intervention, then post-intervention for 7.5 months and compared. Attending oncologists, nurse practitioner, and house staff from the solid tumor division at a 700-bed urban teaching hospital participated in the project. Two geriatricians, a palliative care nurse practitioner, and rotating geriatric fellows staffed the PCS. The percentage of oncology referrals to PCS increased significantly following the intervention (χ(2) = 6.108, p = .013). 24.9% (390) patients were referred in the 4.6 years pre-intervention and 31.5% (106) patients were referred during 7.5 months post-intervention. The proportion of consults for pain management was significantly greater post-intervention (χ(2) = 5.378, p = .02), compared to pre-intervention, when most referrals were related to end-of-life issues. Lung, pancreatic, and colon were the most common cancer types at both periods, and there were no significant differences in patient demographics, pre-referral length of hospitalization or overall hospital days. There was a trend toward more patients being discharged alive following the intervention. A quality improvement project supported the use of education and referral criteria to influence both the frequency and reasons for palliative care referral by oncology providers.

  20. Physics of Colloids in Space--Plus (PCS+) Experiment Completed Flight Acceptance Testing

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Doherty, Michael P.

    2004-01-01

    The Physics of Colloids in Space--Plus (PCS+) experiment successfully completed system-level flight acceptance testing in the fall of 2003. This testing included electromagnetic interference (EMI) testing, vibration testing, and thermal testing. PCS+, an Expedite the Process of Experiments to Space Station (EXPRESS) Rack payload will deploy a second set of colloid samples within the PCS flight hardware system that flew on the International Space Station (ISS) from April 2001 to June 2002. PCS+ is slated to return to the ISS in late 2004 or early 2005.

  1. Input analysis for two public consultations on the EU Clinical Trials Regulation.

    PubMed

    Langhof, Holger; Lander, Jonas; Strech, Daniel

    2016-09-17

    The European Union's (EU) Clinical Trials Directive was replaced by an EU-Regulation as of 2016. The policy revision process was subject to a formal impact assessment exercised by the European Commission (EC) from 2008 to 2014. Following the EU principles of Good Governance, deliberation with stakeholders was an integral part of this impact assessment and the policy formulation process. Hence, two public consultations (PCs) were held by the EC in 2009 and 2011, respectively. Various stakeholders contributed and submitted their written input to the EC. Though often cited in the further revision process, the input gathered in the PC was not communicated with full transparency and it is unclear how and to what extent the input has been processed and used in the policy formulation. The objective of this study was an analysis of submissions to both PCs in order to systematically present what topics have been discussed and which possible policy options have been raised by the stakeholders. All written submissions publicly available were downloaded from the EC's homepage and assessed for stakeholder characteristics. Thematic text analysis was applied to assess the full text of a random sample of 33% of these submissions. A total of 198 different stakeholders from the EU and the United States of America contributed to one or both of the two PCs. In total, 44 various themes have been addressed that could be clustered under 24 main themes, including the articulation of problems as well as possible policy solutions to face these problems. The two PCs on the Clinical Trials Directive were highly appreciated by the various stakeholders and their input allowed an in-depth view on their particular interests. This input provided a rich source of information for all stakeholders in the field of clinical trials as well as to the EC's impact assessment. Although the EC obviously gathered a large quantity of expert knowledge on practical implications of trials legislation by consulting stakeholders, it remained unclear how this input was used in the development of the new regulation. For the sake of transparency, it is recommended that in future PCs the EC uses better standardized methods for a more transparent analysis and presentation of results.

  2. High Post-Capture Survival for Sharks, Rays and Chimaeras Discarded in the Main Shark Fishery of Australia?

    PubMed Central

    Braccini, Matias; Van Rijn, Jay; Frick, Lorenz

    2012-01-01

    Most sharks, rays and chimaeras (chondrichthyans) taken in commercial fisheries are discarded (i.e. returned to the ocean either dead or alive). Quantifying the post-capture survival (PCS) of discarded species is therefore essential for the improved management and conservation of this group. For all chondrichthyans taken in the main shark fishery of Australia, we quantified the immediate PCS of individuals reaching the deck of commercial shark gillnet fishing vessels and applied a risk-based method to semi-quantitatively determine delayed and total PCS. Estimates of immediate, delayed and total PCS were consistent, being very high for the most commonly discarded species (Port Jackson shark, Australian swellshark, and spikey dogfish) and low for the most important commercial species (gummy and school sharks). Increasing gillnet soak time or water temperature significantly decreased PCS. Chondrichthyans with bottom-dwelling habits had the highest PCS whereas those with pelagic habits had the lowest PCS. The risk-based approach can be easily implemented as a standard practice of on-board observing programs, providing a convenient first-step assessment of the PCS of all species taken in commercial fisheries. PMID:22384270

  3. High post-capture survival for sharks, rays and chimaeras discarded in the main shark fishery of Australia?

    PubMed

    Braccini, Matias; Van Rijn, Jay; Frick, Lorenz

    2012-01-01

    Most sharks, rays and chimaeras (chondrichthyans) taken in commercial fisheries are discarded (i.e. returned to the ocean either dead or alive). Quantifying the post-capture survival (PCS) of discarded species is therefore essential for the improved management and conservation of this group. For all chondrichthyans taken in the main shark fishery of Australia, we quantified the immediate PCS of individuals reaching the deck of commercial shark gillnet fishing vessels and applied a risk-based method to semi-quantitatively determine delayed and total PCS. Estimates of immediate, delayed and total PCS were consistent, being very high for the most commonly discarded species (Port Jackson shark, Australian swellshark, and spikey dogfish) and low for the most important commercial species (gummy and school sharks). Increasing gillnet soak time or water temperature significantly decreased PCS. Chondrichthyans with bottom-dwelling habits had the highest PCS whereas those with pelagic habits had the lowest PCS. The risk-based approach can be easily implemented as a standard practice of on-board observing programs, providing a convenient first-step assessment of the PCS of all species taken in commercial fisheries.

  4. Cultural adaptation and psychometric assessment of Pain Catastrophizing Scale among young healthy Malay-speaking adults in military settings.

    PubMed

    Mohd Din, F H; Hoe, Victor C W; Chan, C K; Muslan, M A

    2015-05-01

    The Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS) is designed to assess negative thoughts in response to pain. It is composed of three domains: helplessness, rumination, and magnification. We report on the translation, adaptation, and validation of scores on a Malay-speaking version of the PCS, the PCS-MY. Guidelines for the process of cross-cultural adaptations of assessment measures were implemented. A sample of 303 young military recruits participated in the study. Factor structure, reliability, and validity of scores on the PCS-MY were examined. Convergent validity was investigated with the Positive and Negative Affect Scale, Short-form 12 version 2, and Ryff's Psychological Well-being Scale. Most participants were men, ranging in age from 19 to 26. The reliability of the PCS-MY scores was adequate (α = 0.90; mean inter-item correlation = 0.43). Confirmatory factor analysis showed that a modified version of the PCS-MY provided best fit estimates to the sample data. The PCS-MY total score was negatively correlated with mental well-being and positively correlated with negative affect (all ps < 0.001). The PCS-MY was demonstrated to have adequate reliability and validity estimates in the study sample.

  5. A DNA sequence analysis package for the IBM personal computer.

    PubMed Central

    Lagrimini, L M; Brentano, S T; Donelson, J E

    1984-01-01

    We present here a collection of DNA sequence analysis programs, called "PC Sequence" (PCS), which are designed to run on the IBM Personal Computer (PC). These programs are written in IBM PC compiled BASIC and take full advantage of the IBM PC's speed, error handling, and graphics capabilities. For a modest initial expense in hardware any laboratory can use these programs to quickly perform computer analysis on DNA sequences. They are written with the novice user in mind and require very little training or previous experience with computers. Also provided are a text editing program for creating and modifying DNA sequence files and a communications program which enables the PC to communicate with and collect information from mainframe computers and DNA sequence databases. PMID:6546433

  6. Models and Management of Student Employees in an Australian University Library

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    O'Neil, Frances; Comley, Jenny

    2010-01-01

    Since 2008, Victoria University (VU) Library has employed 20 or more Student Assistants annually who work on a casual basis for up to 12 hours per week during terms/semesters to staff the Library in Study Hall mode (where there is self-service access to PCs and collections and limited staff assistance). This initiative appears to have been highly…

  7. Cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the Norwegian pain catastrophizing scale in patients with low back pain.

    PubMed

    Fernandes, Linda; Storheim, Kjersti; Lochting, Ida; Grotle, Margreth

    2012-06-22

    Pain catastrophizing has been found to be an important predictor of disability and days lost from work in patients with low back pain. The most commonly used outcome measure to identify pain catastrophizing is the Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS). To enable the use of the PCS in clinical settings and research in Norwegian speaking patients, the PCS had to be translated. The purpose of this study was therefore to translate and cross-culturally adapt the PCS into Norwegian and to test internal consistency, construct validity and reproducibility of the PCS. The PCS was translated before it was tested for psychometric properties. Patients with subacute or chronic non-specific low back pain aged 18 years or more were recruited from primary and secondary care. Validity of the PCS was assessed by evaluating data quality (missing, floor and ceiling effects), principal components analysis, internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha), and construct validity (Spearman's rho). Reproducibility analyses included standard error of measurement, minimum detectable change, limits of agreement, and intraclass correlation coefficients. A total of 38 men and 52 women (n = 90), with a mean (SD) age of 47.6 (11.7) years, were included for baseline testing. A subgroup of 61 patients was included for test-retest assessments. The Norwegian PCS was easy-to-comprehend. The principal components analysis supported a three-factor structure, internal consistency was satisfactory for the PCS total score (α 0.90) and the subscales rumination (α 0.83) and helplessness (α 0.86), but not for the subscale magnification (α 0.53). In total, 86% of the correlation analyses were in accordance with predefined hypothesis. The reliability analyses showed intraclass correlation coefficients of 0.74 - 0.87 for the PCS total score and subscales. The PCS total score (range 0-52 points) showed a standard error of measurement of 4.6 points and a 95% minimum detectable change estimate of 12.8 points. The Norwegian PCS total score showed acceptable psychometric properties in terms of comprehensibility, consistency, construct validity, and reproducibility when applied to patients with subacute or chronic LBP from different clinical settings. Our study support the use of the PCS total score for clinical or research purposes identifying or evaluating pain catastrophizing.

  8. Enhanced production of bacterial cellulose by using a biofilm reactor and its material property analysis

    PubMed Central

    Cheng, Kuan-Chen; Catchmark, Jeff M; Demirci, Ali

    2009-01-01

    Bacterial cellulose has been used in the food industry for applications such as low-calorie desserts, salads, and fabricated foods. It has also been used in the paper manufacturing industry to enhance paper strength, the electronics industry in acoustic diaphragms for audio speakers, the pharmaceutical industry as filtration membranes, and in the medical field as wound dressing and artificial skin material. In this study, different types of plastic composite support (PCS) were implemented separately within a fermentation medium in order to enhance bacterial cellulose (BC) production by Acetobacter xylinum. The optimal composition of nutritious compounds in PCS was chosen based on the amount of BC produced. The selected PCS was implemented within a bioreactor to examine the effects on BC production in a batch fermentation. The produced BC was analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). Among thirteen types of PCS, the type SFYR+ was selected as solid support for BC production by A. xylinum in a batch biofilm reactor due to its high nitrogen content, moderate nitrogen leaching rate, and sufficient biomass attached on PCS. The PCS biofilm reactor yielded BC production (7.05 g/L) that was 2.5-fold greater than the control (2.82 g/L). The XRD results indicated that the PCS-grown BC exhibited higher crystallinity (93%) and similar crystal size (5.2 nm) to the control. FESEM results showed the attachment of A. xylinum on PCS, producing an interweaving BC product. TGA results demonstrated that PCS-grown BC had about 95% water retention ability, which was lower than BC produced within suspended-cell reactor. PCS-grown BC also exhibited higher Tmax compared to the control. Finally, DMA results showed that BC from the PCS biofilm reactor increased its mechanical property values, i.e., stress at break and Young's modulus when compared to the control BC. The results clearly demonstrated that implementation of PCS within agitated fermentation enhanced BC production and improved its mechanical properties and thermal stability. PMID:19630969

  9. Effects of intestinal bacteria-derived p-cresyl sulfate on Th1-type immune response in vivo and in vitro

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

    Shiba, Takahiro, E-mail: takahiro-shiba@yakult.co.jp; Kawakami, Koji; Sasaki, Takashi

    2014-01-15

    Protein fermentation by intestinal bacteria generates various compounds that are not synthesized by their hosts. An example is p-cresol, which is produced from tyrosine. Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) accumulate high concentrations of intestinal bacteria-derived p-cresyl sulfate (pCS), which is the major metabolite of p-cresol, in their blood, and this accumulation contributes to certain CKD-associated disorders. Immune dysfunction is a CKD-associated disorder that frequently contributes to infectious diseases among CKD patients. Although some studies imply pCS as an etiological factor, the relation between pCS and immune systems is poorly understood. In the present study, we investigated the immunological effectsmore » of pCS derived from intestinal bacteria in mice. For this purpose, we fed mice a tyrosine-rich diet that causes the accumulation of pCS in their blood. The mice were shown to exhibit decreased Th1-driven 2, 4-dinitrofluorobenzene-induced contact hypersensitivity response. The concentration of pCS in blood was negatively correlated with the degree of the contact hypersensitivity response. In contrast, the T cell-dependent antibody response was not influenced by the accumulated pCS. We also examined the in vitro cytokine responses by T cells in the presence of pCS. The production of IFN-γ was suppressed by pCS. Further, pCS decreased the percentage of IFN-γ-producing Th1 cells. Our results suggest that intestinal bacteria-derived pCS suppressesTh1-type cellular immune responses. - Highlights: • Mice fed a tyrosine-rich diet accumulated p-cresyl sulfate in their blood. • p-Cresyl sulfate negatively correlated with contact hypersensitivity response. • The in vitro production of IFN-γ was suppressed by p-cresyl sulfate. • p-Cresyl sulfate decreased the percentage of IFN-γ-producing Th1 cells in vitro.« less

  10. Smart Carbon Nanotubes with Laser-Controlled Behavior in Gene Delivery and Therapy through a Non-Digestive Trafficking Pathway.

    PubMed

    Kong, Fenfen; Liu, Fei; Li, Wei; Guo, Xiaomeng; Wang, Zuhua; Zhang, Hanbo; Li, Qingpo; Luo, Lihua; Du, Yongzhong; Jin, Yi; You, Jian

    2016-12-01

    Near-infrared (NIR) laser-controlled gene delivery presents some benefits in gene therapy, inducing enhanced gene transfection efficiency. In this study, a "photothermal transfection" agent is obtained by wrapping poly(ethylenimine)-cholesterol derivatives (PEI-Chol) around single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs). The PEI-Chol modified SWNTs (PCS) are effective in compressing DNA molecules and protecting them from DNaseI degradation. Compared to the complexes formed by PEI with DNA (PEI/DNA), complexes of PCS and DNA that are formed (PCS/DNA) exhibit a little lower toxicity to HEK293 and HeLa cells under the same PEI molecule weight and weight ratios. Notably, caveolae-mediated cellular uptake of PCS/DNA occurs, which results in a safer intracellular transport of the gene due to the decreased lysosomal degradation in comparison with that of PEI/DNA whose internalization mainly depends on clathrin rather than caveolae. Furthermore, unlike PEI/DNA, PCS/DNA exhibits a photothermal conversion ability, which promotes DNA release from PCS under NIR laser irradiation. The NIR laser-mediated photothermal transfection of PCS 10K /plasmid TP53 (pTP53) results in more apoptosis and necrosis of HeLa cells in vitro than other groups, and achieves a higher tumor-growth inhibition in vivo than naked pTP53, PEI 25K /pTP53, and PCS 10K /pTP53 alone. The enhanced transfection efficiency of PCS/DNA can be attributed to more efficient DNA internalization into the tumor cells, promotes detachment of DNA from PCS under the mediation of NIR laser and higher DNA stability in the cells due to caveolae-mediated cellular uptake of the complexes. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  11. Replaced platelet concentrates containing a new additive solution, M-sol: safety and efficacy for pediatric patients.

    PubMed

    Yanagisawa, Ryu; Shimodaira, Shigetaka; Kojima, Shunsuke; Nakasone, Nobuhiko; Ishikawa, Shinsuke; Momose, Kayo; Honda, Takayuki; Yoshikawa, Kentaro; Saito, Shoji; Tanaka, Miyuki; Nakazawa, Yozo; Sakashita, Kazuo; Shiohara, Masaaki; Akino, Mitsuaki; Hirayama, Junichi; Azuma, Hiroshi; Koike, Kenichi

    2013-09-01

    Allergic transfusion reactions (ATRs), particularly those caused by plasma-rich platelet concentrates (P-PCs), are an important concern in transfusion medicine. Replacing P-PCs with PCs containing M-sol (M-sol-R-PCs) is expected to prevent ATRs. However, this has not yet been verified by sufficient clinical evidence. A retrospective cohort study was performed between 2008 and 2011. Pediatric patients with hematologic disorders, solid tumors, primary immunodeficiency disorders, or inherited metabolic disorders were transfused with M-sol-R-PCs between 2010 and 2011; the transfusions of P-PCs administered between 2008 and 2011 were compared in terms of frequency and severity of ATRs, corrected count increment (CCI), and occurrence of bleeding. Data were collected for 6 consecutive months on a per-patient basis. Data obtained during 2008 to 2011 showed that of the 78 patients receiving 515 P-PC transfusions, 14 (17.9%) had 17 ATRs (3.3%); 14 and three ATRs were of Grades 1 and 2, respectively. In 2010 to 2011, 49 patients received 620 transfusions of M-sol-R-PCs, and two patients (4.1%) had Grade 1 ATRs (0.3%). Thus, the frequency of ATRs per bag and per patient differed significantly between the two transfusions. No steroid agents were used for the prevention or treatment of ATRs in the M-sol-R-PC group. The CCI (24 hr) for M-sol-R-PCs did not differ from that for P-PCs. M-sol-R-PCs were found to be effective in preventing ATRs without loss of transfusion efficiency in children; however, its efficacy should be further evaluated in prospective clinical trials. © 2012 American Association of Blood Banks.

  12. Platelet storage lesion in interim platelet unit concentrates: A comparison with buffy-coat and apheresis concentrates.

    PubMed

    Singh, Sukhi; Shams Hakimi, Caroline; Jeppsson, Anders; Hesse, Camilla

    2017-12-01

    Platelet storage lesion is characterized by morphological changes and impaired platelet function. The collection method and storage medium may influence the magnitude of the storage lesion. The aim of this study was to compare the newly introduced interim platelet unit (IPU) platelet concentrates (PCs) (additive solution SSP+, 40% residual plasma content) with the more established buffy-coat PCs (SSP, 20% residual plasma content) and apheresis PCs (autologous plasma) in terms of platelet storage lesions. Thirty PCs (n=10 for each type) were assessed by measuring metabolic parameters (lactate, glucose, and pH), platelet activation markers, and in vitro platelet aggregability on days 1, 4, and 7 after donation. The expression of platelet activation markers CD62p (P-selectin), CD63 (LAMP-3), and phosphatidylserine was measured using flow cytometry and in vitro aggregability was measured with multiple electrode aggregometry. Higher platelet activation and lower in vitro aggregability was observed in IPU than in buffy-coat PCs on day 1 after donation. In contrast, metabolic parameters, expression of platelet activation markers, and in vitro aggregability were better maintained in IPU than in buffy-coat PCs at the end of the storage period. Compared to apheresis PCs, IPU PCs had higher expression of activation markers and lower in vitro aggregability throughout storage. In conclusion, the results indicate that there are significant differences in platelet storage lesions between IPU, buffy-coat, and apheresis PCs. The quality of IPU PCs appears to be at least comparable to buffy-coat preparations. Further studies are required to distinguish the effect of the preparation methods from storage conditions. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  13. Patient controlled sedation using a standard protocol for dressing changes in burns: patients' preference, procedural details and a preliminary safety evaluation.

    PubMed

    Nilsson, Andreas; Steinvall, Ingrid; Bak, Zoltan; Sjöberg, Folke

    2008-11-01

    Patient controlled sedation (PCS) enables patients to titrate doses of drugs by themselves during different procedures involving pain or discomfort. We studied it in a prospective crossover design using a fixed protocol without lockout time to examine it as an alternative method of sedation for changing dressings in burned patients. Eleven patients with >10% total burn surface area (TBSA) had their dressings changed, starting with sedation by an anaesthetist (ACS). The second dressing change was done with PCS (propofol/alfentanil) and the third time the patients had to choose ACS or PCS. During the procedures, data on cardiopulmonary variables, sedation (bispectral index), pain intensity (VAS), procedural details, doses of drugs, and patients' preferences were collected to compare the two sedation techniques. The study data indicated that wound care in burned patients is feasible with a standardized PCS protocol. The patients preferred PCS to ACS on the basis of self-control, and because they had less discomfort during the recovery period. Wound care was also considered adequate by the staff during PCS. No respiratory (respiratory rate/transcutaneous PCO(2)) or cardiovascular (heart rate/blood pressure) adverse events were recorded at any time during any of the PCS procedures. The doses of propofol and alfentanil and BIS index decrease were less during PCS than ACS. Procedural pain was higher during PCS but lower after the procedure. We suggest that PCS using a standard protocol is an interesting alternative to anaesthetist-provided sedation during dressing changes. It seems effective, saves resources, is safe, and at same time is preferred by the patients. The strength of these conclusions is, however, hampered by the small size of this investigation and therefore further studies are warranted.

  14. Acute toxicity and anti-fatigue activity of polysaccharide-rich extract from corn silk.

    PubMed

    Zhao, He-Peng; Zhang, Yang; Liu, Zhuo; Chen, Jiang-Yue; Zhang, Song-Yan; Yang, Xiu-Dong; Zhou, Hong-Li

    2017-06-01

    The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and potential of PCS as the anti-fatigue functional food. PCS was prepared by water extracting-alcohol precipitating method, and its chemical compositions of monosaccharide were analyzed. Then, acute toxicity and anti-fatigue activity of PCS were evaluated. PCS is composed of Rha, Arab, Xyl, Man, Glu, and Gal, its molar ratio is 0.17: 0.30: 0.26: 0.35: 1.00: 0.57. No mortality and general symptoms of toxicity were observed in the PCS treated mice (7.5, 15, and 20g/kg body weight), the body weight and food consumption were not significantly changed compared with the normal control group. The relative weights of main organ, and biochemical indicators also did not markedly change. PCS can significantly prolong the duration of the swimming time to exhaustion in mice, decrease BUN, LA levels, increase LDH activities, and the contents of HG in the PCS treated mice. The dose of 400mg/kg body weight is the optimal dose for anti-fatigue activity both in male and female mice. In conclusion, PCS is a promising traditional natural-based therapeutic remedy for relieving fatigue with high safety. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

  15. High Levels of Peripheral Blood Circulating Plasma Cells as a Specific Risk Factor for Progression of Smoldering Multiple Myeloma

    PubMed Central

    Bianchi, Giada; Kyle, Robert A.; Larson, Dirk R.; Witzig, Thomas E.; Kumar, Shaji; Dispenzieri, Angela; Morice, William G.; Rajkumar, S. Vincent

    2012-01-01

    Smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM) carries a 50% risk of progression to multiple myeloma (MM) or related malignancy within the first 5 years following diagnosis. The goal of this study was to determine if high levels of circulating plasma cells (PCs) are predictive of SMM transformation within the first 2–3 years from diagnosis. Ninety-one patients diagnosed with SMM at Mayo Clinic from January 1994 through January 2007 who had testing for circulating PCs using an immunofluorescent assay and adequate follow up to ascertain disease progression, were studied. High level of circulating PCs was defined as absolute peripheral blood PCs >5000 ×106/L and/or > 5% cytoplasmic immunoglobulin (Ig) positive PCs per 100 peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Patients with high circulating PCs (14 of 91 patients, 15%) were significantly more likely to progress to active disease within 2 years compared with patients without high circulating PCs, 71% versus 25%, respectively, P=0.001. Corresponding rates for progression within 3 years were 86% versus 35%, respectively, P<0.001. Overall survival (OS) after both SMM diagnosis and MM diagnosis was also significantly different. High levels of circulating PCs identify SMM patients with an elevated risk of progression within the first 2 to 3 years following diagnosis. PMID:22902364

  16. Computer-assisted virtual preoperative planning in orthopedic surgery for acetabular fractures based on actual computed tomography data.

    PubMed

    Wang, Guang-Ye; Huang, Wen-Jun; Song, Qi; Qin, Yun-Tian; Liang, Jin-Feng

    2016-12-01

    Acetabular fractures have always been very challenging for orthopedic surgeons; therefore, appropriate preoperative evaluation and planning are particularly important. This study aimed to explore the application methods and clinical value of preoperative computer simulation (PCS) in treating pelvic and acetabular fractures. Spiral computed tomography (CT) was performed on 13 patients with pelvic and acetabular fractures, and Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) data were then input into Mimics software to reconstruct three-dimensional (3D) models of actual pelvic and acetabular fractures for preoperative simulative reduction and fixation, and to simulate each surgical procedure. The times needed for virtual surgical modeling and reduction and fixation were also recorded. The average fracture-modeling time was 45 min (30-70 min), and the average time for bone reduction and fixation was 28 min (16-45 min). Among the surgical approaches planned for these 13 patients, 12 were finally adopted; 12 cases used the simulated surgical fixation, and only 1 case used a partial planned fixation method. PCS can provide accurate surgical plans and data support for actual surgeries.

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

    Chaurasia, Neha; Mishra, Yogesh; Rai, Lal Chand

    Phytochelatin synthase (PCS) is involved in the synthesis of phytochelatins (PCs), plays role in heavy metal detoxification. The present study describes for first time the functional expression and characterization of pcs gene of Anabaena sp. PCC 7120 in Escherichia coli in terms of offering protection against heat, salt, carbofuron (pesticide), cadmium, copper, and UV-B stress. The involvement of pcs gene in tolerance to above abiotic stresses was investigated by cloning of pcs gene in expression vector pGEX-5X-2 and its transformation in E. coli BL21 (DE3). The E. coli cells transformed with pGEX-5X-pcs showed better growth than control cells (pGEX-5X-2) undermore » temperature (47 deg. C), NaCl (6% w/v), carbofuron (0.025 mg ml{sup -1}), CdCl{sub 2} (4 mM), CuCl{sub 2} (1 mM), and UV-B (10 min) exposure. The enhanced expression of pcs gene revealed by RT-PCR analysis under above stresses at different time intervals further advocates its role in tolerance against above abiotic stresses.« less

  18. Characterisation of water-soluble proanthocyanidins of Pyracantha fortuneana fruit and their improvement in cell bioavailable antioxidant activity of quercetin.

    PubMed

    Zhao, Chun-Fang; Lei, Dou Jian; Song, Guang Hao; Zhang, Hua; Xu, Hang; Yu, Long-Jiang

    2015-02-15

    Proanthocyanidins (PCs) with poor bioavailability were argued for their health benefits. In this study, water-soluble polymeric polyphenolic PCs fractions from Pyracanthafortuneana fruit were used to investigate whether the presence of PCs is correlated with the increased cell antioxidant activities (CAA) of quercetin (Q). The results indicated that the most decrement in the values of EC50, which Q inhibited peroxyl radical-induced DCFH oxidation effective in the HepG2 cells, was observed to be 2.91 (vs. control 5.97) in the present of the fraction with 15.8 of the average degree of polymerisation of PCs (ADP). Also, the order of efficacy was the same with the ADP of PCs. Further, this effect is associated with the improvement of the solubility and stability of Q after the addition of the PCs. Our current study suggests that the additive effects of PCs on small molecular polyphenols may be responsible for their antioxidant benefits in vivo. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  19. PCS subscriber profile data and information requirements

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Schumacher, Gregory D.

    1996-01-01

    Enhanced services for mobile subscribers are currently undergoing significant growth. This growth will continue to increase as more wireless serviceproviders enter the marketplace. Profit margins for basic service will fall as competition increases leading to interest in higher margin enhanced services. Likewise subscribers will demand enhanced services to further increase productivity over basic wire service. However there are limitations in today's network infrastructure defined by inter-system interface standards such as IS-41, GSM and WACS. These network limitations prevent enhanced services from being offered in the seamless and geographically ubiquitous fashion subscribers are familiar with in basic wireless service. This paper examines what are the needs of wireless enhanced services to be provided as subscribers want them. This paper then looks at the major inter-system interfaces available for mobility and call control in terms of how well these enhanced service needs are fulfilled.

  20. Prostate cancer screening and shared decision-making preferences among African-American members of the Prince Hall Masons.

    PubMed

    Williams, Randi M; Zincke, Nicole L; Turner, Ralph O; Davis, Jackson L; Davis, Kimberly M; Schwartz, Marc D; Johnson, Lenora; Kerner, Jon F; Taylor, Kathryn L

    2008-10-01

    Shared decision making (SDM) is recommended as one method to assist men in making an informed decision about prostate cancer screening (PCS). SDM preferences for PCS have not been evaluated among African-American (AA) men. Given AA men's increased risk and the uncertainty surrounding screening, it is critical to determine how to assist AA men in making an informed decision. We assessed the extent to which a sample of AA men wished to engage in SDM regarding PCS and the demographic and psychological characteristics associated with SDM preferences. Participants completed a telephone interview that covered demographic and medical information, SDM preferences, PCS knowledge, decisional conflict, and satisfaction with previous screening decisions. Subjects included 286 AA men aged 40-70, who were members of a Masonic organization. Fifty-seven percent preferred SDM, 36% preferred to make their own decision, and 7% wanted their doctor to decide. A higher level of education and older age were associated with preferring SDM (p<0.05), while men with greater PCS knowledge were more likely to prefer to make the decision independently (p<0.05). Results suggest that physicians need to be prepared to discuss PCS with their patients. Further, more attention may be needed to engage younger, less educated, and less knowledgeable men as they may be less likely to discuss PCS. This understanding of AA men's preferences for PCS decisions helps to clarify the issues that health professionals need to consider when attempting to assist AA men in making a PCS decision. Copyright (c) 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  1. Psychometric properties of the Japanese version of short forms of the Pain Catastrophizing Scale in participants with musculoskeletal pain: A cross-sectional study.

    PubMed

    Nishigami, Tomohiko; Mibu, Akira; Tanaka, Katsuyoshi; Yamashita, Yuh; Watanabe, Akihisa; Tanabe, Akihito

    2017-03-01

    The Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS) is a commonly used as measure of pain catastrophizing. The scale comprises 13 items related to magnification, rumination, and helplessness. To facilitate quick screening and to reduce participant's burden, the four-item and six-item short forms of the English version of the PCS were developed. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of a Japanese version of the short forms of PCS using a contemporary approach called Rasch analysis. A total of 216 patients with musculoskeletal disorders were recruited in this study. Participants completed study measures, which included the pain intensity, the Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS), and the Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia (TSK). Furthermore, the four-item (items 3, 6, 8, and 11) and six-item (items 4, 5, 6, 10, 11, and 13) short forms of the Japanese version of PCS were measured. We used Rasch analysis to analyze the psychometric properties of the original, four-item, and six-item short forms of PCS. Rasch analysis showed that both short forms of PCS had acceptable internal consistency, unidimensionality, and no notable DIF and were functional on the category rating scale. However, four-item short form of PCS had two misfit items. Six-item short form of PCS has acceptable psychometric properties and is suitable for use in participants with musculoskeletal pain. Thus, six-item can be used as brief instruments to evaluate pain catastrophizing. Copyright © 2016 The Japanese Orthopaedic Association. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  2. Longitudinal associations of active commuting with wellbeing and sickness absence

    PubMed Central

    Mytton, Oliver Tristan; Panter, Jenna; Ogilvie, David

    2016-01-01

    Objective Our aim was to explore longitudinal associations of active commuting (cycling to work and walking to work) with physical wellbeing (PCS-8), mental wellbeing (MCS-8) and sickness absence. Method We used data from the Commuting and Health in Cambridge study (2009 to 2012; n = 801) to test associations between: a) maintenance of cycling (or walking) to work over a one year period and indices of wellbeing at the end of that one year period; and b) associations between change in cycling (or walking) to work and change in indices of wellbeing. Linear regression was used for testing associations with PCS-8 and MCS-8, and negative binomial regression for sickness absence. Results After adjusting for sociodemographic variables, physical activity and physical limitation, those who maintained cycle commuting reported lower sickness absence (0.46, 95% CI: 0.14–0.80; equivalent to one less day per year) and higher MCS-8 scores (1.50, 0.10–2.10) than those who did not cycle to work. The association for sickness absence persisted after adjustment for baseline sickness absence. No significant associations were observed for PCS-8. Associations between change in cycle commuting and change in indices of wellbeing were not significant. No significant associations were observed for walking. Conclusions This work provides some evidence of the value of cycle commuting in improving or maintaining the health and wellbeing of adults of working age. This may be important in engaging employers in the promotion of active travel and communicating the benefits of active travel to employees. PMID:26740344

  3. Longitudinal associations of active commuting with wellbeing and sickness absence.

    PubMed

    Mytton, Oliver Tristan; Panter, Jenna; Ogilvie, David

    2016-03-01

    Our aim was to explore longitudinal associations of active commuting (cycling to work and walking to work) with physical wellbeing (PCS-8), mental wellbeing (MCS-8) and sickness absence. We used data from the Commuting and Health in Cambridge study (2009 to 2012; n=801) to test associations between: a) maintenance of cycling (or walking) to work over a one year period and indices of wellbeing at the end of that one year period; and b) associations between change in cycling (or walking) to work and change in indices of wellbeing. Linear regression was used for testing associations with PCS-8 and MCS-8, and negative binomial regression for sickness absence. After adjusting for sociodemographic variables, physical activity and physical limitation, those who maintained cycle commuting reported lower sickness absence (0.46, 95% CI: 0.14-0.80; equivalent to one less day per year) and higher MCS-8 scores (1.50, 0.10-2.10) than those who did not cycle to work. The association for sickness absence persisted after adjustment for baseline sickness absence. No significant associations were observed for PCS-8. Associations between change in cycle commuting and change in indices of wellbeing were not significant. No significant associations were observed for walking. This work provides some evidence of the value of cycle commuting in improving or maintaining the health and wellbeing of adults of working age. This may be important in engaging employers in the promotion of active travel and communicating the benefits of active travel to employees. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  4. Predictors of postconcussion syndrome in collegiate student-athletes.

    PubMed

    Zuckerman, Scott L; Yengo-Kahn, Aaron M; Buckley, Thomas A; Solomon, Gary S; Sills, Allen K; Kerr, Zachary Y

    2016-04-01

    OBJECTIVE Sport-related concussion (SRC) has emerged as a public health problem, especially among student-athletes. Whereas most concussions resolve by 2 weeks, a minority of patients experience postconcussion syndrome (PCS), in which symptoms persist for months. The objective of this study was to elucidate factors predictive of PCS among a sample of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) student-athletes in the academic years 2009-2010 to 2014-2015. METHODS The SRC data originated from the NCAA Injury Surveillance Program (ISP) in the 2009-2010 to 2014-2015 academic seasons. The NCAA ISP is a prospective database made up of a convenience sample of schools across all divisions. All SRCs are reported by certified athletic trainers. The PCS group consisted of concussed student-athletes with concussion-related symptoms that lasted ≥ 4 weeks. The non-PCS group consisted of concussed student-athletes with symptom resolution in ≤ 2 weeks. Those with symptoms that resolved in the intermediate area of 2-4 weeks were excluded. Odds ratios (ORs) were estimated using logistic regression. RESULTS During the 2009-2010 to 2014-2015 seasons, 1507 NCAA student-athletes sustained an SRC, 112 (7.4%) of whom developed PCS (i.e., concussion-related symptoms that lasted ≥ 4 weeks). Men's ice hockey contributed the largest proportion of concussions to the PCS group (28.6%), whereas men's football contributed the largest proportion of concussions in the non-PCS group (38.6%). In multivariate analysis, recurrent concussion was associated with increased odds of PCS (OR 2.08, 95% CI 1.28-3.36). Concussion symptoms that were also associated with increased odds of PCS included retrograde amnesia (OR 2.75, 95% CI 1.34-5.64), difficulty concentrating (OR 2.35, 95% CI 1.23-4.50), sensitivity to light (OR 1.97, 95% CI 1.09-3.57), and insomnia (OR 2.19, 95% CI 1.30-3.68). Contact level, sex, and loss of consciousness were not associated with PCS. CONCLUSIONS Postconcussion syndrome represents one of the most impactful sequelae of SRC. In this study of exclusively collegiate student-athletes, the authors found that recurrent concussions and various concussion-related symptoms were associated with PCS. The identification of initial risk factors for the development of PCS may assist sports medicine clinicians in providing timely interventions and treatments to prevent morbidity and shorten recovery time after SRC.

  5. SMARTDIAB: a communication and information technology approach for the intelligent monitoring, management and follow-up of type 1 diabetes patients.

    PubMed

    Mougiakakou, Stavroula G; Bartsocas, Christos S; Bozas, Evangelos; Chaniotakis, Nikos; Iliopoulou, Dimitra; Kouris, Ioannis; Pavlopoulos, Sotiris; Prountzou, Aikaterini; Skevofilakas, Marios; Tsoukalis, Alexandre; Varotsis, Kostas; Vazeou, Andrianni; Zarkogianni, Konstantia; Nikita, Konstantina S

    2010-05-01

    SMARTDIAB is a platform designed to support the monitoring, management, and treatment of patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), by combining state-of-the-art approaches in the fields of database (DB) technologies, communications, simulation algorithms, and data mining. SMARTDIAB consists mainly of two units: 1) the patient unit (PU); and 2) the patient management unit (PMU), which communicate with each other for data exchange. The PMU can be accessed by the PU through the internet using devices, such as PCs/laptops with direct internet access or mobile phones via a Wi-Fi/General Packet Radio Service access network. The PU consists of an insulin pump for subcutaneous insulin infusion to the patient and a continuous glucose measurement system. The aforementioned devices running a user-friendly application gather patient's related information and transmit it to the PMU. The PMU consists of a diabetes data management system (DDMS), a decision support system (DSS) that provides risk assessment for long-term diabetes complications, and an insulin infusion advisory system (IIAS), which reside on a Web server. The DDMS can be accessed from both medical personnel and patients, with appropriate security access rights and front-end interfaces. The DDMS, apart from being used for data storage/retrieval, provides also advanced tools for the intelligent processing of the patient's data, supporting the physician in decision making, regarding the patient's treatment. The IIAS is used to close the loop between the insulin pump and the continuous glucose monitoring system, by providing the pump with the appropriate insulin infusion rate in order to keep the patient's glucose levels within predefined limits. The pilot version of the SMARTDIAB has already been implemented, while the platform's evaluation in clinical environment is being in progress.

  6. Formulation and characterization of hydrophilic drug diclofenac sodium-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles based on phospholipid complexes technology.

    PubMed

    Liu, Dongfei; Chen, Li; Jiang, Sunmin; Zhu, Shuning; Qian, Yong; Wang, Fengzhen; Li, Rui; Xu, Qunwei

    2014-03-01

    To successfully prepare the diclofenac sodium (DS)-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs), phospholipid complexes (PCs) technology was applied here to improve the liposolubility of DS. Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) loaded with phospholipid complexes (PCs) were prepared by the modified emulsion/solvent evaporation method. DS could be solubilized effectively in the organic solvents with the existence of phospholipid and apparent partition coefficient of DS in PCs increased significantly. X-ray diffraction analysis suggested that DS in PCs was either molecularly dispersed or in an amorphous form. However, no significant difference was observed between the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) spectra of physical mixture and that of PCs. Particles with small sizes, narrow polydispersity indexes and high entrapment efficiencies could be obtained with the addition of PCs. Furthermore, according to the transmission electron microscopy, a core-shell structure was likely to be formed. The presence of PCs caused the change of zeta potential and retarded the drug release of SLNs, which indicated that phospholipid formed multilayers around the solid lipid core of SLNs. Both FT-IR and differential scanning calorimetry analysis also illustrated that some weak interactions between DS and lipid materials might take place during the preparation of SLNs. In conclusion, the model hydrophilic drug-DS can be formulated into the SLNs with the help of PCs.

  7. Proanthocyanidins Attenuation of Chronic Lead-Induced Liver Oxidative Damage in Kunming Mice via the Nrf2/ARE Pathway

    PubMed Central

    Long, Miao; Liu, Yi; Cao, Yu; Wang, Nan; Dang, Meng; He, Jianbin

    2016-01-01

    Lead is harmful for human health and animals. Proanthocyanidins (PCs), a natural antioxidant, possess a broad spectrum of pharmacological and medicinal properties. However, its protective effects against lead-induced liver damage have not been clarified. This study was aimed to evaluate the protective effect of PCs on the hepatotoxicity of male Kunming mice induced by chronic lead exposure. A total of 70 healthy male Kunming mice were averagely divided into four groups: control group, i.e., the group exposed to lead, the group treated with PCs, and the group co-treated with lead and PCs. The mice exposed to lead were given water containing 0.2% lead acetate. Mice treated in the PCs and PCs lead co-treated groups were given PC (100 mg/kg) in 0.9% saline by oral gavage. Lead exposure caused a significant elevation in the liver function parameters, lead level, lipid peroxidation, and inhibition of antioxidant enzyme activities. The induction of oxidative stress and histological alterations in the liver were minimized by co-treatment with PCs. Meanwhile, the number of Transferase-Mediated Deoxyuridine Triphosphate-Biotin Nick End Labeling (TUNEL)-positive cells was significantly reduced in the PCs/lead co-treated group compared to the lead group. In addition, the lead group showed an increase in the expression level of Bax, while the expression of Bcl-2 was decreased. Furthermore, the lead group showed an increase in the expression level of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-related genes and protein (GRP78 and CHOP). Co-treated with PCs significantly reversed these expressions in the liver. PCs were, therefore, demonstrated to have protective, antioxidant, and anti-ER stress and anti-apoptotic activities in liver damage caused by chronic lead exposure in the Kunming mouse. This may be due to the ability of PCs to enhance the ability of liver tissue to protect against oxidative stress via the Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway, resulting in decreasing ER stress and apoptosis of liver tissue. PMID:27775649

  8. Physicochemical properties and antidiabetic effects of a polysaccharide from corn silk in high-fat diet and streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice.

    PubMed

    Pan, Yuxiang; Wang, Cong; Chen, Zhongqin; Li, Weiwei; Yuan, Guoqi; Chen, Haixia

    2017-05-15

    This study aimed to investigate the physicochemical properties and antidiabetic effects of a polysaccharide obtained from corn silk (PCS2). PCS2 was isolated and the physicochemical properties were characterized. The hypoglycemic effects were determined using the high-fat diet and streptozocin induced type 2 diabetic mellitus (T2DM) insulin resistance mice. The results showed that PCS2 was a heteropolysaccharide with the average molecular weight of 45.5kDa. PCS2 was composed of d-galactose, d-mannose, d-(+)-glucose, d-(+)-xylose, l-arabinose and l-rhamnose. PCS2 treatment significantly reduced the body weight loss, decreased blood glucose and serum insulin levels, and improved glucose intolerance (P<0.05). The levels of serum lipid profile were regulated and the levels of glycated serum protein, non-esterified fatty acid were decreased significantly (P<0.01). The activities of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and catalase were notably improved (P<0.05). PCS2 also exerted cytoprotective action from histopathological observation. These results suggested that PCS2 could be a good candidate of functional food or medicine for T2DM treatment. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  9. Retrospectively evaluated preinjury personality traits influence postconcussion symptoms.

    PubMed

    Yuen, Kit-Man; Tsai, Yi-Hsin; Lin, Wei-Chi; Yang, Chi-Cheng; Huang, Sheng-Jean

    2016-01-01

    Postconcussion symptoms (PCS) are not uncommon following mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). Personality traits have always been viewed as one of the most important explanations for persistent postconcussion symptoms (PPCS). Unfortunately, studies on the association between preinjury personality traits and the PPCS are still limited. This study thus aimed to examine the relationship between the preinjury personality and PCS in patients with mTBI. A total of 106 participants including 53 healthy participants were recruited. All participants complete the modified Checklist of Postconcussion Symptoms and the Health, Personality, & Habit Scale. Participants were evaluated within 4 weeks and at 4 months, respectively, after injury. The results showed patients reported significantly more PCS than healthy participants did within 4 weeks postinjury. A significant positive association between PCS and retrospectively evaluated preinjury personality was found. Specifically, patients who reported that their preinjury personality was depressive or anxious-related presented more PCS. This study might be the first to directly demonstrate that preinjury personality traits are closely linked to PCS reporting in patients with mTBI. Importantly, PCS reporting might be associated with different personality traits at different periods after injuries, and thus, a careful evaluation for personality characteristics is merited after mTBI.

  10. p-Cresyl Sulfate

    PubMed Central

    Gryp, Tessa; Vanholder, Raymond; Vaneechoutte, Mario; Glorieux, Griet

    2017-01-01

    If chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with an impairment of kidney function, several uremic solutes are retained. Some of these exert toxic effects, which are called uremic toxins. p-Cresyl sulfate (pCS) is a prototype protein-bound uremic toxin to which many biological and biochemical (toxic) effects have been attributed. In addition, increased levels of pCS have been associated with worsening outcomes in CKD patients. pCS finds its origin in the intestine where gut bacteria metabolize aromatic amino acids, such as tyrosine and phenylalanine, leading to phenolic end products, of which pCS is one of the components. In this review we summarize the biological effects of pCS and its metabolic origin in the intestine. It appears that, according to in vitro studies, the intestinal bacteria generating phenolic compounds mainly belong to the families Bacteroidaceae, Bifidobacteriaceae, Clostridiaceae, Enterobacteriaceae, Enterococcaceae, Eubacteriaceae, Fusobacteriaceae, Lachnospiraceae, Lactobacillaceae, Porphyromonadaceae, Staphylococcaceae, Ruminococcaceae, and Veillonellaceae. Since pCS remains difficult to remove by dialysis, the gut microbiota could be a future target to decrease pCS levels and its toxicity, even at earlier stages of CKD, aiming at slowing down the progression of the disease and decreasing the cardiovascular burden. PMID:28146081

  11. Remediation of Petroleum-Contaminated Soil and Simultaneous Recovery of Oil by Fast Pyrolysis.

    PubMed

    Li, De-Chang; Xu, Wan-Fei; Mu, Yang; Yu, Han-Qing; Jiang, Hong; Crittenden, John C

    2018-05-01

    Petroleum-contaminated soil (PCS) caused by the accidental release of crude oil into the environment, which occurs frequently during oil exploitation worldwide, needs efficient and cost-effective remediation. In this study, a fast pyrolysis technology was implemented to remediate the PCS and concurrently recover the oil. The remediation effect related to pyrolytic parameters, the recovery rate of oil and its possible formation pathway, and the physicochemical properties of the remediated PCS and its suitability for planting were systematically investigated. The results show that 50.9% carbon was recovered in oil, whose quality even exceeds that of crude oil. Both extractable total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) and water-soluble organic matter (SOM) in PCS were completely removed at 500 °C within 30 min. The remaining carbon in remediated PCS was determined to be in a stable and innocuous state, which has no adverse effect on wheat growth. On the basis of the systematically characterizations of initial PCS and pyrolytic products, a possible thermochemical mechanism was proposed which involves evaporation, cracking and polymerization. In addition, the energy consumption analysis and remediation effect of various PCSs indicate that fast pyrolysis is a viable and cost-effective method for PCS remediation.

  12. Triggering of leukocytes by phase contrast in imaging cytometry with scanning fluorescence microscope (SFM)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bocsi, József; Pierzchalski, Arkadiusz; Marecka, Monika; Malkusch, Wolf; Tárnok, Attila

    2009-02-01

    Slide-based cytometry (SBC) leads to breakthrough in cytometry of cells in tissues, culture and suspension. Carl Zeiss Imaging Solutions' new automated SFM combines imaging with cytometry. A critical step in image analysis is selection of appropriate triggering signal to detect all objects. Without correct target cell definition analysis is hampered. DNA-staining is among the most common triggering signals. However, the majority of DNA-dyes yield massive spillover into other fluorescence channels limiting their application. By microscopy objects of >5μm diameter can be easily detected by phase-contrast signal (PCS) without any staining. Aim was to establish PCS - triggering for cell identification. Axio Imager.Z1 motorized SFM was used (high-resolution digital camera, AxioCam MRm; AxioVision software: automatic multi-channel scanning, analysis). Leukocytes were stained with FITC (CD4, CD8) and APC (CD3) labelled antibodies in combinations using whole blood method. Samples were scanned in three channels (PCS/FITC/APC). Exposition-times for PCS were set as low as possible; the detection efficiency was verified by fluorescence. CD45-stained leukocytes were counted and compared to the number of PCS detected events. Leukocyte subtyping was compared with other cytometers. In focus the PCS of cells showed ring-form that was not optimal for cell definition. Out of focus PCS allows more effective qualitative and quantitative cell analyses. PCS was an accurate triggering signal for leukocytes enabling cell counting and discrimination of leukocytes from platelets. Leukocyte subpopulation frequencies were comparable to those obtained by other cytometers. In conclusion PCS is a suitable trigger-signal not interfering with fluorescence detection.

  13. False-positive alarms for bacterial screening of platelet concentrates with BacT/ALERT new-generation plastic bottles: a multicenter pilot study.

    PubMed

    Hundhausen, T; Müller, T H

    2005-08-01

    The microbial detection system BacT/ALERT (bioMérieux) is widely used to monitor bacterial contamination of platelet concentrates (PCs). Recently, the manufacturer introduced polycarbonate culture bottles and a modified pH-sensitive liquid emulsion sensor as microbial growth indicator. This reconfigured assay was investigated in a routine setting. In each of eight transfusion centers, samples from 500 consecutive PCs were monitored for 1 week. For all PCs with a positive BacT/ALERT signal, retained samples and, if available, original PC containers and concomitant red blood cell concentrates were analyzed independently. Initially BacT/ALERT-positive PCs without bacterial identification in any sample were defined as false-positive. BacT/ALERT-positive PCs with bacteria in the first sample only were called potentially positive. PCs with bacteria in the first sample and the same strain in at least one additional sample were accepted as positive. Five PCs (0.13%) were positive, 9 PCs (0.23%) were potentially positive, and 35 PCs (0.9%) were false-positive. The rate of false-positive BacT/ALERT results varied substantially between centers (<0.2%-3.2%). Tracings from false-positive cultures lacked an exponential increase of the signal during incubation. Most of these false-positives were due to malfunctioning cells in various BacT/ALERT incubation units. Careful assessment of individual tracings of samples with positive signals helps to identify malfunctioning incubation units. Their early shutdown or replacement minimizes the high rate of unrectifiable product rejects attributed to false-positive alarms and avoids unnecessary concern of doctors and patients after conversion to a reconfigured BacT/ALERT assay.

  14. Superior integrin activating capacity and higher adhesion to fibrinogen matrix in buffy coat-derived platelet concentrates (PCs) compared to PRP-PCs.

    PubMed

    Beshkar, Pezhman; Hosseini, Ehteramolsadat; Ghasemzadeh, Mehran

    2018-02-01

    Regardless of different sources, methods or devices which are applied for preparation of therapeutic platelets, these products are generally isolated from whole blood by the sedimentation techniques which are based on PRP or buffy coat (BC) separation. As a general fact, platelet preparation and storage are also associated with some deleterious changes that known as platelet storage lesion (PSL). Although these alternations in platelet functional activity are aggravated during storage, whether technical issues within preparation can affect integrin activation and platelet adhesion to fibrinogen were investigated in this study. PRP- and BC-platelet concentrates (PCs) were subjected to flowcytometry analysis to examine the expression of platelet activation marker, P-selectin as well as active confirmation of the GPIIb/IIIa (α IIb β 3 ) on day 0, 1, 3 and 5 post-storage. Platelet adhesion to fibrinogen matrix was evaluated by fluorescence microscopy. Glucose concentration and LDH activity were also measured by colorimetric methods. The increasing P-selectin expression during storage was in a reverse correlation with PAC-1 binding (r = -0.67; p = .001). PRP-PCs showed the higher level of P-selectin expression than BC-PCs, whereas the levels of PAC-1 binding and platelet adhesion to fibrinogen matrix were significantly lower in PRP-PCs. Higher levels of active confirmation of the GPIIb/IIIa in BC-PCs were also associated with greater concentration of glucose in these products. We demonstrated the superior capacities of integrin activation and adhesion to fibrinogen for BC-PCs compared to those of PRP-PCs. These findings may provide more advantages for BC method of platelet preparation. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  15. The ionic bases of the action potential in isolated mouse cardiac Purkinje cell.

    PubMed

    Vaidyanathan, Ravi; O'Connell, Ryan P; Deo, Makarand; Milstein, Michelle L; Furspan, Philip; Herron, Todd J; Pandit, Sandeep V; Musa, Hassan; Berenfeld, Omer; Jalife, José; Anumonwo, Justus M B

    2013-01-01

    Collecting electrophysiological and molecular data from the murine conduction system presents technical challenges. Thus, only little advantage has been taken of numerous genetically engineered murine models to study excitation through the cardiac conduction system of the mouse. To develop an approach for isolating murine cardiac Purkinje cells (PCs), to characterize major ionic currents and to use the data to simulate action potentials (APs) recorded from PCs. Light microscopy was used to isolate and identify PCs from apical and septal cells. Current and voltage clamp techniques were used to record APs and whole cell currents. We then simulated a PC AP on the basis of our experimental data. APs recorded from PCs were significantly longer than those recorded from ventricular cells. The prominent plateau phase of the PC AP was very negative (≈-40 mV). Spontaneous activity was observed only in PCs. The inward rectifier current demonstrated no significant differences compared to ventricular myocytes (VMs). However, sodium current density was larger, and the voltage-gated potassium current density was significantly less in PCs compared with myocytes. T-type Ca(2+) currents (I(Ca,T)) were present in PCs but not VMs. Computer simulations suggest that I(Ca,T) and cytosolic calcium diffusion significantly modulate AP profile recorded in PCs, as compared to VMs. Our study provides the first comprehensive ionic profile of murine PCs. The data show unique features of PC ionic mechanisms that govern its excitation process. Experimental data and numerical modeling results suggest that a smaller voltage-gated potassium current and the presence of I(Ca,T) are important determinants of the longer and relatively negative plateau phase of the APs. Copyright © 2013 Heart Rhythm Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  16. Generation and detection of edge magnetoplasmons in a quantum Hall system using a photoconductive switch

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lin, Chaojing; Morita, Kyosuke; Muraki, Koji; Fujisawa, Toshimasa

    2018-04-01

    Edge magnetoplasmons (EMPs) are unidirectional charge density waves travelling in an edge channel of a two-dimensional electron gas in the quantum Hall regime. We present both generation and detection schemes with a photoconductive switch (PCS) for EMPs. Here, the conductance of the PCS is modulated by irradiation with a laser beam, whose amplitude can be modulated by an external signal. When the PCS is used as a generator, the electrical current from the PCS is injected into the edge channel to excite EMPs. When the PCS is used as a detector, the electronic potential induced by EMPs is applied to the PCS with a modulated laser beam so as to constitute a phase-sensitive measurement. For both experiments, we confirm that the time of flight for the EMPs increases with the magnetic field in agreement with the EMP characteristics. Combination of the two schemes would be useful in investigating and utilizing EMPs at higher frequencies.

  17. Imprinting the Fate of Antigen-Reactive B Cells through the Affinity of the B Cell Receptor

    PubMed Central

    O'Connor, Brian P.; Vogel, Laura A.; Zhang, Weijun; Loo, William; Shnider, Danielle; Lind, Evan F.; Ratliff, Michelle; Noelle, Randolph J.; Erickson, Loren D.

    2010-01-01

    Long-lived plasma cells (PCs) and memory B cells (Bmem) constitute the cellular components of enduring humoral immunity, whereas short-lived PCs that rapidly produce Ig correspond to the host's need for immediate protection against pathogens. In this study we show that the innate affinity of the BCR for Ag imprints upon naive B cells their differentiation fate to become short-or long-lived PCs and Bmem. Using BCR transgenic mice with varying affinities for Ag, naive B cells with high affinity lose their capacity to form germinal centers (GCs), develop neither Bmem nor long-lived PCs, and are destined to a short-lived PC fate. Moderate affinity interactions result in hastened GC responses, and differentiation to long-lived PCs, but Bmem remain extinct. In contrast, lower affinity interactions show tempered GCs, producing Bmem and affinity-matured, long-lived PCs. Thus, a continuum of elementary to comprehensive humoral immune responses exists that is controlled by inherent BCR affinity. PMID:17114443

  18. Construction of flame retardant coating on polyamide 6.6 via UV grafting of phosphorylated chitosan and sol-gel process of organo-silane.

    PubMed

    Kundu, Chanchal Kumar; Wang, Xin; Hou, Yanbei; Hu, Yuan

    2018-02-01

    Phosphorylated chitosan (PCS) was synthesized and grafted onto the surface of polyamide 6.6 (PA 6.6) fabrics via UV-induced grafting polymerization in order to improve the flame retardant properties. Subsequently, PCS grafted PA 6.6 fabrics were modified by (3-aminopropyl) triethoxysilane (APTES) through sol-gel process in order to form a cross-linking coating. The results obtained from the vertical burning test indicated that only the PCS grafted and simultaneously sol-gel treated fabrics could stop the melt dripping. A maximum reduction (30%) in the peak heat release rate was achieved for the PA6.6-PCS-4W-SG fabric sample. The optimal flame retardant effect was achieved for the PA6.6 fabrics treated by PCS and APTES simultaneously, which was attributed to the joint effect of thermal shielding exerted by the silica and char-forming effect derived from PCS. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  19. Quantitative assessment of post-concussion syndrome following mild traumatic brain injury using robotic technology.

    PubMed

    Subbian, Vignesh; Meunier, Jason M; Korfhagen, Joseph J; Ratcliff, Jonathan J; Shaw, George J; Beyette, Fred R

    2014-01-01

    Post-Concussion Syndrome (PCS) is a common sequelae of mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI). Currently, there is no reliable test to determine which patients will develop PCS following an mTBI. As a result, clinicians are challenged to identify patients at high risk for subsequent PCS. Hence, there is a need to develop an objective test that can guide clinical risk stratification and predict the likelihood of PCS at the initial point of care in an Emergency Department (ED). This paper presents the results of robotic-assisted neurologic testing completed on mTBI patients in the ED and its ability to predict PCS at 3 weeks post-injury. Preliminary results show that abnormal proprioception, as measured using robotic testing is associated with higher risk of developing PCS following mTBI. In this pilot study, proprioceptive measures obtained through robotic testing had a 77% specificity (95CI: 46%-94%) and a 64% sensitivity (95CI: 41%-82%).

  20. Formaldehyde levels in traditional and portable classrooms: A pilot investigation

    PubMed Central

    2015-01-01

    This pilot study assessed formaldehyde levels in portable classrooms (PCs) and traditional classrooms (TCs) and explored factors influencing indoor air quality (e.g., carbon dioxide (CO2), temperature, and relative humidity). In a cross-sectional design, we evaluated formaldehyde levels in day and overnight indoor air samples from nine PCs renovated within three years previously and three TCs in a school district in metropolitan Atlanta, Georgia. Formaldehyde levels ranged from 0.0068 to 0.038 ppm. In both type of classrooms, overnight formaldehyde median levels (PCs = 0.018 ppm; TCs = 0.019 ppm) were higher than day formaldehyde median levels (PCs = 0.011 ppm; TCs = 0.016 ppm). CO2 levels measured 470–790 parts per million (ppm) at 7AM and 470–1800 ppm at 4PM. Afternoon medians were higher in TCs (1,400 ppm ) than in PCs (780 ppm). Consistent with previous studies, formaldehyde levels were similar among PCs and TCs. Reducing CO2 levels by improving ventilation is recommended for classrooms. PMID:27197349

  1. Waste receiving and processing plant control system; system design description

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

    LANE, M.P.

    1999-02-24

    The Plant Control System (PCS) is a heterogeneous computer system composed of numerous sub-systems. The PCS represents every major computer system that is used to support operation of the Waste Receiving and Processing (WRAP) facility. This document, the System Design Description (PCS SDD), includes several chapters and appendices. Each chapter is devoted to a separate PCS sub-system. Typically, each chapter includes an overview description of the system, a list of associated documents related to operation of that system, and a detailed description of relevant system features. Each appendice provides configuration information for selected PCS sub-systems. The appendices are designed asmore » separate sections to assist in maintaining this document due to frequent changes in system configurations. This document is intended to serve as the primary reference for configuration of PCS computer systems. The use of this document is further described in the WRAP System Configuration Management Plan, WMH-350, Section 4.1.« less

  2. Event-related potentials for post-error and post-conflict slowing.

    PubMed

    Chang, Andrew; Chen, Chien-Chung; Li, Hsin-Hung; Li, Chiang-Shan R

    2014-01-01

    In a reaction time task, people typically slow down following an error or conflict, each called post-error slowing (PES) and post-conflict slowing (PCS). Despite many studies of the cognitive mechanisms, the neural responses of PES and PCS continue to be debated. In this study, we combined high-density array EEG and a stop-signal task to examine event-related potentials of PES and PCS in sixteen young adult participants. The results showed that the amplitude of N2 is greater during PES but not PCS. In contrast, the peak latency of N2 is longer for PCS but not PES. Furthermore, error-positivity (Pe) but not error-related negativity (ERN) was greater in the stop error trials preceding PES than non-PES trials, suggesting that PES is related to participants' awareness of the error. Together, these findings extend earlier work of cognitive control by specifying the neural correlates of PES and PCS in the stop signal task.

  3. Alpine cushion plants inhibit the loss of phylogenetic diversity in severe environments.

    PubMed

    Butterfield, B J; Cavieres, L A; Callaway, R M; Cook, B J; Kikvidze, Z; Lortie, C J; Michalet, R; Pugnaire, F I; Schöb, C; Xiao, S; Zaitchek, B; Anthelme, F; Björk, R G; Dickinson, K; Gavilán, R; Kanka, R; Maalouf, J-P; Noroozi, J; Parajuli, R; Phoenix, G K; Reid, A; Ridenour, W; Rixen, C; Wipf, S; Zhao, L; Brooker, R W

    2013-04-01

    Biotic interactions can shape phylogenetic community structure (PCS). However, we do not know how the asymmetric effects of foundation species on communities extend to effects on PCS. We assessed PCS of alpine plant communities around the world, both within cushion plant foundation species and adjacent open ground, and compared the effects of foundation species and climate on alpha (within-microsite), beta (between open and cushion) and gamma (open and cushion combined) PCS. In the open, alpha PCS shifted from highly related to distantly related with increasing potential productivity. However, we found no relationship between gamma PCS and climate, due to divergence in phylogenetic composition between cushion and open sub-communities in severe environments, as demonstrated by increasing phylo-beta diversity. Thus, foundation species functioned as micro-refugia by facilitating less stress-tolerant lineages in severe environments, erasing a global productivity - phylogenetic diversity relationship that would go undetected without accounting for this important biotic interaction. © 2013 Blackwell Publishing Ltd/CNRS.

  4. Association between Work Related Stress and Health Related Quality of Life: The Impact of Socio-Demographic Variables. A Cross Sectional Study in a Region of Central Italy.

    PubMed

    La Torre, Giuseppe; Sestili, Cristina; Mannocci, Alice; Sinopoli, Alessandra; De Paolis, Massimiliano; De Francesco, Sara; Rapaccini, Laura; Barone, Marco; Iodice, Valentina; Lojodice, Bruno; Sernia, Sabina; De Sio, Simone; Del Cimmuto, Angela; De Giusti, Maria

    2018-01-19

    The aim of this work is investigate relationship between health-related quality of life and work-related stress and the impact of gender, education level, and age on this relationship. A cross-sectional study was conducted among workers of various setting in Rome and Frosinone. Work-related stress was measured with a demand-control questionnaire and health-related functioning by SF (short form)-12 health survey. There were 611 participants. Men reported high mental composite summary (MCS) and physical composite summary (PCS). In multivariate analysis age, gender ( p < 0.001) and job demand (0.045) predicted low PCS. Low MCS predicted poor PCS. Job demand and educational level resulted negatively associated with MCS. In an analysis stratified for age, gender, and educational level, gender and age resulted effect modifier for MCS, gender and education level for PCS. In women increase of decision latitude predict ( p = 0.001) an increase in MCS; a low job demand predict high MCS in male ( p ≤ 0.001). In younger workers, a lower level of job demand predicted high MCS (<0.001). For PCS, gender and education level resulted effect modifier. In women, high decision latitude predicted higher PCS ( p = 0.001) and lower level of job demand results in higher PCS ( p ≤ 0.001). Higher educational level resulted predictor of low PCS. Management of risk about work-related stress should consider socio-demographic factors.

  5. Injury versus non-injury factors as predictors of post-concussive symptoms following mild traumatic brain injury in children

    PubMed Central

    McNally, Kelly A.; Bangert, Barbara; Dietrich, Ann; Nuss, Kathy; Rusin, Jerome; Wright, Martha; Taylor, H. Gerry; Yeates, Keith Owen

    2013-01-01

    Objective To examine the relative contributions of injury characteristics and non-injury child and family factors as predictors of postconcussive symptoms (PCS) following mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) in children. Methods Participants were 8- to 15-year-old children, 186 with mild TBI and 99 with mild orthopedic injuries (OI). Parents and children rated PCS shortly after injury and at 1, 3, and 12 months post-injury. Hierarchical regression analyses were conducted to predict PCS from (1) demographic variables; (2) pre-morbid child factors (WASI IQ; WRAT-3 Reading; Child Behavior Checklist; ratings of pre-injury PCS); (3) family factors (Family Assessment Device General Functioning Scale; Brief Symptom Inventory; and Life Stressors and Social Resources Inventory); and (4) injury group (OI, mild TBI with loss of consciousness [LOC] and associated injuries [AI], mild TBI with LOC but without AI, mild TBI without LOC but with AI, and mild TBI without LOC or AI) Results Injury group predicted parent and child ratings of PCS but showed a decreasing contribution over time. Demographic variables consistently predicted symptom ratings across time. Premorbid child factors, especially retrospective ratings of premorbid symptoms, accounted for the most variance in symptom ratings. Family factors, particularly parent adjustment, consistently predicted parent, but not child, ratings of PCS. Conclusions Injury characteristics predict PCS in the first months following mild TBI but show a decreasing contribution over time. In contrast, non-injury factors are more consistently related to persistent PCS. PMID:23356592

  6. The hybrid personal cooling system (PCS) could effectively reduce the heat strain while exercising in a hot and moderate humid environment.

    PubMed

    Song, Wenfang; Wang, Faming

    2016-08-01

    This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of a hybrid personal cooling system (PCS) in mitigating body heat stain while exercising in a hot environment. Eight subjects underwent two trials: PCS and CON (i.e. no cooling). All trials were conducted at an air temperature of 36 ± 0.5 °C and RH = 59 ± 5%. The key findings demonstrated that the PCS could significantly reduce the core temperature, mean skin temperature, heart rate and physiological strain index during both exercise and recovery periods (p < 0.05). Subjective perceptions were also significantly alleviated in PCS at the end of the exercise and during the recovery (p < 0.05). Besides, the PCS could also bring remarkable benefits in lowering local skin temperatures and in improving perceptual sensations in both upper and lower body during both exercise and recovery periods (p < 0.05). It was thus concluded that the hybrid PCS is effective in mitigating body heat strain while exercising in a hot environment. Practitioner Summary: In hot and humid environments, body heat dissipation through sweating is greatly restricted. Our newly developed hybrid PCS could effectively alleviate heat strain while exercising in hot environments. The findings contribute to the body of knowledge in improving the health and well-being of sportsmen while exercising in hot environments.

  7. The impact of pedestrian countdown signals on pedestrian-motor vehicle collisions: a reanalysis of data from a quasi-experimental study.

    PubMed

    Richmond, Sarah A; Willan, Andrew R; Rothman, Linda; Camden, Andi; Buliung, Ron; Macarthur, Colin; Howard, Andrew

    2014-06-01

    To perform a more sophisticated analysis of previously published data that advances the understanding of the efficacy of pedestrian countdown signal (PCS) installation on pedestrian-motor vehicle collisions (PMVCs), in the city of Toronto, Canada. This is an updated analysis of the same dataset from Camden et al. A quasi-experimental design was used to evaluate the effect of PCS on PMVC. A Poisson regression analysis, using a one-group comparison of PMVC, pre-PCS installation to post-PCS installation was used, controlling for season and temporal effects. The outcome was the frequency of reported PMVC (January 2000-December 2009). Similar models were used to analyse specific types of collisions defined by age of pedestrian, injury severity, and pedestrian and vehicle action. Incidence rate ratios with 95% CI are presented. This analysis included 9262 PMVC, 2760 during or after PCS installation, at 1965 intersections. There was a 26% increase in the rate of collisions, pre to post-PCS installation (incidence rate ratio=1.26, 95% CI 1.11 to 1.42). The installation of PCS at 1965 signalised intersections in the city of Toronto resulted in an increase in PMVC rates post-PCS installation. PCSs may have an unintended consequence of increasing pedestrian-motor vehicle collisions in some settings. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.

  8. Towards an Understanding of the Function of the Phytochelatin Synthase of Schistosoma mansoni

    PubMed Central

    Rigouin, Coraline; Nylin, Elyse; Cogswell, Alexis A.; Schaumlöffel, Dirk; Dobritzsch, Dirk; Williams, David L.

    2013-01-01

    Phytochelatin synthase (PCS) is a protease-like enzyme that catalyzes the production of metal chelating peptides, the phytochelatins, from glutathione (GSH). In plants, algae, and fungi phytochelatin production is important for metal tolerance and detoxification. PCS proteins also function in xenobiotic metabolism by processing GSH S-conjugates. The aim of the present study is to elucidate the role of PCS in the parasitic worm Schistosoma mansoni. Recombinant S. mansoni PCS proteins expressed in bacteria could both synthesize phytochelatins and hydrolyze various GSH S-conjugates. We found that both the N-truncated protein and the N- and C-terminal truncated form of the enzyme (corresponding to only the catalytic domain) work through a thiol-dependant and, notably, metal-independent mechanism for both transpeptidase (phytochelatin synthesis) and peptidase (hydrolysis of GSH S-conjugates) activities. PCS transcript abundance was increased by metals and xenobiotics in cultured adult worms. In addition, these treatments were found to increase transcript abundance of other enzymes involved in GSH metabolism. Highest levels of PCS transcripts were identified in the esophageal gland of adult worms. Taken together, these results suggest that S. mansoni PCS participates in both metal homoeostasis and xenobiotic metabolism rather than metal detoxification as previously suggested and that the enzyme may be part of a global stress response in the worm. Because humans do not have PCS, this enzyme is of particular interest as a drug target for schistosomiasis. PMID:23383357

  9. Optimization of L-(+)-lactic acid production by ring and disc plastic composite supports through repeated-batch biofilm fermentation.

    PubMed Central

    Ho, K L; Pometto, A L; Hinz, P N

    1997-01-01

    Four customized bioreactors, three with plastic composite supports (PCS) and one with suspended cells (control), were operated as repeated-batch fermentors for 66 days at pH 5 and 37 degrees C. The working volume of each customized reactor was 600 ml, and each reactor's medium was changed every 2 to 5 days for 17 batches. The performance of PCS bioreactors in long-term biofilm repeated-batch fermentation was compared with that of suspended-cell bioreactors in this research. PCS could stimulate biofilm formation, supply nutrients to attached and free suspended cells, and reduce medium channelling for lactic acid production. Compared with conventional repeated-batch fermentation, PCS bioreactors shortened the lag time by threefold (control, 11 h; PCS, 3.5 h) and sixfold (control, 9 h; PCS, 1.5 h) at yeast extract concentrations of 0.4 and 0.8% (wt/vol), respectively. They also increased the lactic acid productivity of Lactobacillus casei subsp. rhamnosus (ATCC 11443) by 40 to 70% and shortened the total fermentation time by 28 to 61% at all yeast extract concentrations. The fastest productivity of the PCS bioreactors (4.26 g/liter/h) was at a starting glucose concentration of 10% (wt/vol), whereas that of the control (2.78 g/liter/h) was at 8% (wt/vol). PCS biofilm lactic acid fermentation can drastically improve the fermentation rate with reduced complex-nutrient addition. PMID:9212403

  10. Free and total p-cresol sulfate levels and infectious hospitalizations in hemodialysis patients in CHOICE and HEMO

    PubMed Central

    Banerjee, Tanushree; Meyer, Timothy W.; Shafi, Tariq; Hostetter, Thomas H.; Melamed, Michal; Zhu, Yunnuo; Powe, Neil R.

    2017-01-01

    Abstract The uremic syndrome is attributed to progressive retention of compounds that, under normal conditions, are excreted by the healthy kidneys. p-cresol sulfate (PCS), a prototype protein-bound uremic retention solute, has been shown to exert toxic effects in vitro. Recent studies have identified relations between increased levels of PCS and indoxyl sulfate (IS) and adverse clinical outcomes in hemodialysis patients. We explored the relationship between free and total PCS and IS with infection-related hospitalizations (IH) and septicemia in 2 cohorts, Choices for Healthy Outcomes in Caring for end-stage renal disease (ESRD) Study (CHOICE) and Hemodialysis Study (HEMO). We measured free and total levels of PCS and IS in stored specimens in CHOICE, a cohort of 464 incident hemodialysis patients enrolled in 1995 to 1998 and followed for an average of 3.4 years and in a prevalent dialysis cohort of 495 patients enrolled in HEMO from 1995 to 2000 and followed for an average of 4.4 years. We measured free PCS and IS using mass spectroscopy. The 2 cohorts were linked to United States Renal Data System (USRDS) Medicare billing records to ascertain IH over follow-up. We examined the association of free and total levels of PCS and IS with IH and septicemia using multilevel Poisson regression models adjusted for demographics, comorbidities, clinical factors, and laboratory tests including residual kidney function. We stratified patients a priori based on gastrointestinal (GI) disease as PCS and IS are produced in colon. In CHOICE, highest tertile of free PCS in multivariable model was associated with 50% higher risk of IH [95% CI = 1.01–2.23] compared with lowest tertile in patients with no-GI disease. A significant trend was noted between greater levels of free PCS and septicemia in no-GI disease group in both cohorts, while no association was noted in GI disease group. Total PCS concentrations were not associated with either IH or septicemia in either cohort. No significant risk of IH or septicemia was noted with higher levels of free or total IS in either GI or no-GI disease group. These results suggest an association between higher concentrations of free PCS and infection-related and sepsis-related hospitalizations in hemodialysis patients. Better methods of dialysis should be developed to evaluate the utility of removing PCS and its effect on the outcome and also therapies to decrease gastrointestinal tract production of uremic solutes. PMID:28178126

  11. Older adults' home- and community-based care service use and residential transitions: a longitudinal study.

    PubMed

    Chen, Ya-Mei; Berkowitz, Bobbie

    2012-08-10

    As Home-and Community-Based Services (HCBS), such as skilled nursing services or personal care services, have become increasingly available, it has become clear that older adults transit through different residential statuses over time. Older adults may transit through different residential statuses as the various services meet their needs. The purpose of this exploratory study was to better understand the interplay between community-dwelling older adults' use of home- and community-based services and their residential transitions. The study compared HCBS service-use patterns and residential transitions of 3,085 older adults from the Second Longitudinal Study of Aging. Based on older adults' residential status at the three follow-up interviews, four residential transitions were tracked: (1) Community-Community-Community (CCC: Resided in community during the entire study period); (2) Community-Institution-Community (CIC: Resided in community at T1, had lived in an institution at some time between T1 and T2, then had returned to community by T3); (3) Community-Community-Institution (CCI: Resided in community between at T1, and betweenT1 and T2, including at T2, but had used institutional services between T2 and T3); (4) Community-Institution-Institution (CII: Resided in community at T1 but in an institution at some time between T1 and T2, and at some time between T2 and T3.). Older adults' use of nondiscretionary and discretionary services differed significantly among the four groups, and the patterns of HCBS use among these groups were also different. Older adults' use of nondiscretionary services, such as skilled nursing care, may help them to return to communities from institutions. Personal care services (PCS) and senior center services may be the key to either support elders to stay in communities longer or help elders to return to their communities from institutions. Different combinations of PCS with other services, such as senior center services or meal services, were associated with different directions in residential transition, such as CIC and CII respectively. Older adults' differing HCBS use patterns may be the key to explaining older adults' transitions. Attention to older adults' HCBS use patterns is recommended for future practice. However, this was an exploratory study and the analyses cannot establish causal relationships.

  12. Older adults’ home- and community-based care service use and residential transitions: a longitudinal study

    PubMed Central

    2012-01-01

    Background As Home-and Community-Based Services (HCBS), such as skilled nursing services or personal care services, have become increasingly available, it has become clear that older adults transit through different residential statuses over time. Older adults may transit through different residential statuses as the various services meet their needs. The purpose of this exploratory study was to better understand the interplay between community-dwelling older adults’ use of home- and community-based services and their residential transitions. Methods The study compared HCBS service-use patterns and residential transitions of 3,085 older adults from the Second Longitudinal Study of Aging. Based on older adults’ residential status at the three follow-up interviews, four residential transitions were tracked: (1) Community-Community-Community (CCC: Resided in community during the entire study period); (2) Community-Institution-Community (CIC: Resided in community at T1, had lived in an institution at some time between T1 and T2, then had returned to community by T3); (3) Community-Community-Institution (CCI: Resided in community between at T1, and betweenT1 and T2, including at T2, but had used institutional services between T2 and T3); (4) Community-Institution-Institution (CII: Resided in community at T1 but in an institution at some time between T1 and T2, and at some time between T2 and T3.). Results Older adults’ use of nondiscretionary and discretionary services differed significantly among the four groups, and the patterns of HCBS use among these groups were also different. Older adults’ use of nondiscretionary services, such as skilled nursing care, may help them to return to communities from institutions. Personal care services (PCS) and senior center services may be the key to either support elders to stay in communities longer or help elders to return to their communities from institutions. Different combinations of PCS with other services, such as senior center services or meal services, were associated with different directions in residential transition, such as CIC and CII respectively. Conclusions Older adults’ differing HCBS use patterns may be the key to explaining older adults’ transitions. Attention to older adults’ HCBS use patterns is recommended for future practice. However, this was an exploratory study and the analyses cannot establish causal relationships. PMID:22877416

  13. Fabrication of 3-D Photonic Band Gap Crystals Via Colloidal Self-Assembly

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Subramaniam, Girija; Blank, Shannon

    2005-01-01

    The behavior of photons in a Photonic Crystals, PCs, is like that of electrons in a semiconductor in that, it prohibits light propagation over a band of frequencies, called Photonic Band Gap, PBG. Photons cannot exist in these band gaps like the forbidden bands of electrons. Thus, PCs lend themselves as potential candidates for devices based on the gap phenomenon. The popular research on PCs stem from their ability to confine light with minimal losses. Large scale 3-D PCs with a PBG in the visible or near infra red region will make optical transistors and sharp bent optical fibers. Efforts are directed to use PCs for information processing and it is not long before we can have optical integrated circuits in the place of electronic ones.

  14. Natural and cross-inducible anti-SIV antibodies in Mauritian cynomolgus macaques

    PubMed Central

    Li, Hongzhao; Nykoluk, Mikaela; Li, Lin; Liu, Lewis R.; Omange, Robert W.; Soule, Geoff; Schroeder, Lukas T.; Toledo, Nikki; Kashem, Mohammad Abul; Correia-Pinto, Jorge F.; Liang, Binhua; Schultz-Darken, Nancy; Alonso, Maria J.; Whitney, James B.; Plummer, Francis A.

    2017-01-01

    Cynomolgus macaques are an increasingly important nonhuman primate model for HIV vaccine research. SIV-free animals without pre-existing anti-SIV immune responses are generally needed to evaluate the effect of vaccine-induced immune responses against the vaccine epitopes. Here, in order to select such animals for vaccine studies, we screened 108 naïve female Mauritian cynomolgus macaques for natural (baseline) antibodies to SIV antigens using a Bio-Plex multiplex system. The antigens included twelve 20mer peptides overlapping the twelve SIV protease cleavage sites (-10/+10), respectively (PCS peptides), and three non-PCS Gag or Env peptides. Natural antibodies to SIV antigens were detected in subsets of monkeys. The antibody reactivity to SIV was further confirmed by Western blot using purified recombinant SIV Gag and Env proteins. As expected, the immunization of monkeys with PCS antigens elicited anti-PCS antibodies. However, unexpectedly, antibodies to non-PCS peptides were also induced, as shown by both Bio-Plex and Western blot analyses, while the non-PCS peptides do not share sequence homology with PCS peptides. The presence of natural and vaccine cross-inducible SIV antibodies in Mauritian cynomolgus macaques should be considered in animal selection, experimental design and result interpretation, for their best use in HIV vaccine research. PMID:28982126

  15. The platelet count in EDTA-anticoagulated blood from patients with thrombocytopenia may be underestimated when measured in routine laboratories.

    PubMed

    Podda, Gian Marco; Pugliano, Mariateresa; Femia, Eti Alessandra; Mezzasoma, Anna Maria; Gresele, Paolo; Carpani, Giovanni; Cattaneo, Marco

    2012-07-01

    Spuriously low platelet counts (PCs) can be observed in normal blood samples anticoagulated with ethylenediamine tetra-acetic acid (EDTA)and, much less frequently, with citrate-tris-pyridossalphosphate (CPT),due to time-dependent in vitro platelet agglutination. Accuracy in PC determination is essential as PC is one of the parameters that usually guides treatment for thrombocytopenic patients. PCs of 93 thrombocy to penic patients were measured in EDTA- or CPT-anticoagulated blood samples immediately after sampling (t0) and 90 min (t90) after storage at room temperature. The presence of platelet agglutinates in blood samples was determined by examining blood smears using optical microscopy.PCs decreased at t90 with both anticoagulants. Platelet agglutinates were present at t90 in 27% of EDTA-samples vs. 2% of CPT-samples with decreased PCs (P < 0.001). Based on PCs in EDTA-samples, 15 patients (16%) shifted from a lower bleeding risk at t0 to a higher bleeding risk category at t90 (P 5 0.019), compared to 5 (5%) patients, based on PCs in CPT-samples. Therefore, time-dependent in vitro platelet agglutination in EDTA-blood samples may cause underestimation of PCs in thrombocytopenic patients, possibly leading to improper management.

  16. Mono-Amine Functionalized Phthalocyanines: Mwave-Assisted Solid-Phase Synthesis and Bioconjugation Strategies

    PubMed Central

    Erdem, S. Sibel; Nesterova, Irina V.; Soper, Steven A.; Hammer, Robert P.

    2009-01-01

    Phthalocyanines (Pcs) are excellent candidates for use as fluors for near-infrared (near-IR) fluorescent tagging of biomolecules for a wide variety of bioanalytical applications. Mono-functionalized Pcs, having two different types of peripheral substitutents; one for covalent conjugation of the Pc to biomolecules and others to improve the solubility of the macrocycle, ideally suit for the desired applications. To date, difficulties faced during the purification of the mono-functionalized Pcs limited their usage in various types of applications. Herein are reported a new synthetic method for rapid synthesis of the target Pcs and bioconjugation techniques for labeling of the oligonucleotides with the near-IR flours. A novel synthetic route was developed utilizing a hydrophilic, polyethylene glycol-based (PEG) support with an acid labile Rink Amide linker. The Pcs were functionalized with an amine group for covalent conjugation purposes and were decorated with short PEG chains, serving as solubilizing groups. Mwave-assisted solid-phase synthetic method was successfully applied to obtain pure asymmetrically-substituted mono-amine functionalized Pcs in a short period of time. Three different bioconjugation techniques, reductive amination, amidation and Huisgen cycloaddition, were employed for covalent conjugation of Pcs to oligonucleotides. The described μwave-assisted bioconjugation methods give an opportunity to synthesize and isolate the Pc-oligonucleotide conjugate in a few hours. PMID:19911767

  17. Quantification of Circulating Clonal Plasma Cells via Multiparametric Flow Cytometry Identifies Patients with Smoldering Multiple Myeloma at High Risk of Progression

    PubMed Central

    Gonsalves, Wilson I.; Rajkumar, S. Vincent; Dispenzieri, Angela; Dingli, David; Timm, Michael M.; Morice, William G.; Lacy, Martha Q.; Buadi, Francis K.; Go, Ronald S.; Leung, Nelson; Kapoor, Prashant; Hayman, Suzanne R.; Lust, John A.; Russell, Stephen J.; Zeldenrust, Steven R.; Hwa, Lisa; Kourelis, Taxiarchis V.; Kyle, Robert A.; Gertz, Morie A.; Kumar, Shaji K.

    2017-01-01

    The presence of high numbers of circulating clonal plasma cells (cPCs) in patients with smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM), detected by a slide-based immunofluorescence assay, has been associated with a shorter time to progression (TTP) to multiple myeloma (MM). The significance of quantifying cPCs via multiparameter flow cytometry, a much more readily available diagnostic modality, in patients with SMM has not been evaluated. This study evaluated 100 patients with a known or new diagnosis of SMM who were seen at the Mayo Clinic, Rochester from January 2008 until December 2013. Patients with ≥ 150 cPCs (N = 9) were considered to have high number of cPCs based on the 97% specificity and 78% PPV of progression to MM within 2 years of cPC assessment. The median TTP of patients with ≥ 150 cPCs was 9 months compared to not reached for patients with < 150 cPCs (P < 0.001). Thus, quantification of cPCs via multiparametric flow cytometry identifies patients with SMM at very high risk of progression to MM within 2 years and warrants confirmation in larger studies. In the future, this may allow reclassification of such patients as having MM requiring therapy prior to them enduring end-organ damage. PMID:27457702

  18. Continuous lactic acid fermentation using a plastic composite support biofilm reactor.

    PubMed

    Cotton, J C; Pometto, A L; Gvozdenovic-Jeremic, J

    2001-12-01

    An immobilized-cell biofilm reactor was used for the continuous production of lactic acid by Lactobacillus casei subsp. rhamnosus (ATCC 11443). At Iowa State University, a unique plastic composite support (PCS) that stimulates biofilm formation has been developed. The optimized PCS blend for Lactobacillus contains 50% (wt/wt) agricultural products [35% (wt/wt) ground soy hulls, 5% (wt/wt) soy flour, 5% (wt/wt) yeast extract, 5% (wt/wt) dried bovine albumin, and mineral salts] and 50% (wt/wt) polypropylene (PP) produced by high-temperature extrusion. The PCS tubes have a wall thickness of 3.5 mm, outer diameter of 10.5 mm, and were cut into 10-cm lengths. Six PCS tubes, three rows of two parallel tubes, were bound in a grid fashion to the agitator shaft of a 1.2-1 vessel for a New Brunswick Bioflo 3000 fermentor. PCS stimulates biofilm formation, supplies nutrients to attached and suspended cells, and increases lactic acid production. Biofilm thickness on the PCS tubes was controlled by the agitation speed. The PCS biofilm reactor and PP control reactor achieved optimal average production rates of 9.0 and 5.8 g l(-1) h(-1), respectively, at 0.4 h(-1) dilution rate and 125-rpm agitation with yields of approximately 70%.

  19. Reduced protein bound uraemic toxins in vegetarian kidney failure patients treated by haemodiafiltration.

    PubMed

    Kandouz, Sakina; Mohamed, Ali Shendi; Zheng, Yishan; Sandeman, Susan; Davenport, Andrew

    2016-10-01

    Introduction Indoxyl sulfate (IS) and p cresyl sulfate (PCS) are protein bound toxins which accumulate with chronic kidney disease. Haemodiafiltration (HDF) increases middle molecule clearances and has been suggested to increase IS and PCS clearance. We therefore wished to establish whether higher convective clearances with HDF would reduce IS and PCS concentrations. Methods We measured total plasma IS and PCS in a cohort of 138 CKD5d patients treated by On-line HDF (Ol-HDF), by high pressure liquid chromatography. Findings Mean patient age was 64.6 ± 16.5 years, 60.1% male, 57.3% diabetic, median dialysis vintage 25.9 months (12.4-62.0). The mean ICS concentration was 79.8 ± 56.4 umol/L and PCS 140.3 ± 101.8 umol/L. On multivariate analysis, IS was associated with serum albumin (β 4.31,P < 0.001), and negatively with residual renal function (β-4.1,P = 0.02) and vegetarian diet(β-28.3, P = 0.048) and PCS negatively with log C reactive protein (β-75.8, P < 0.001) and vegetarian diet (β-109, P = 0.001). Vegetarian patients had lower IS and PCS levels (median 41.5 (24.2-71.9) vs. 78.1 (49.5-107.5) and PCS (41.6 (14.2-178.3) vs. 127.3 (77.4-205.6) µmol/L, respectively, P < 0.05. Vegetarian patients had lower preOl-HDF serum urea, and phosphate (13.8 ±3.8 vs. 18.4 ± 5.2 mmol/L, and 1.33 ± 0.21 vs. 1.58 ± 0.45 mmol/L), and estimated urea nitrogen intake (1.25 ± 0.28 vs. 1.62 ± 0.5 g/kg/day), respectively, all P < 0.05. Discussion Plasma IS and PCS concentrations were not lower with Ol-HDF compared to previous studies in haemodialysis patients. However those eating a vegetarian diet had reduced IS and PCS concentrations. Although this could be due to differences in dietary protein intake, a vegetarian diet may also potentially reduce IS and PCS production by the intestinal microbiome. © 2016 International Society for Hemodialysis.

  20. Determination of inadvertent atrial capture during para-Hisian pacing.

    PubMed

    Obeyesekere, Manoj; Leong-Sit, Peter; Skanes, Allan; Krahn, Andrew; Yee, Raymond; Gula, Lorne J; Bennett, Matthew; Klein, George J

    2011-08-01

    Inadvertent capture of the atrium will lead to spurious results during para-Hisian pacing. We sought to establish whether the stimulation-to-atrial electrogram interval at the proximal coronary sinus (stim-PCS) or high right atrium (stim-HRA) could signal inadvertent atrial capture. Para-Hisian pacing with and without intentional atrial capture was performed in 31 patients. Stim-HRA and stim-PCS intervals were measured with atrial capture, His plus para-Hisian ventricular (H+V) capture, and para-Hisian ventricular (V) capture alone. The mean stim-HRA interval was significantly shorter with atrial capture (66 ± 18 ms) than with H+V (121 ± 27 ms, P < 0.001) or V capture alone (174 ± 38 ms, P < 0.001). The mean stim-PCS interval was significantly shorter with atrial capture (51 ± 16 ms) than with H+V (92 ± 22 ms, P<0.001) or V capture alone (146 ± 33 ms, P < 0.001). A stim-PCS < 60 ms (stim-HRA < 70 ms) was observed only with atrial capture. A stim-PCS >90 ms (stim-HRA >100 ms) was observed only in the absence of atrial capture. A stim-HRA of < 85 ms was highly specific and stim-PCS of < 85 ms highly sensitive at identifying atrial capture. Stim-HRA intervals of 75 to 97 ms and stim-PCS intervals of 65 to 88 ms were observed with either atrial, His, or para-Hisian ventricular capture without atrial capture. In this overlap zone, all patients demonstrated a stim-PCS or stim-HRA interval prolongation of at least 20 ms when the catheter was advanced to avoid deliberate atrial pacing. The QRS morphology was of limited value in distinguishing atrial capture due to concurrent ventricular or H+V capture, as observed in 20 of 31 (65%) patients. Stim-PCS and stim-HRA intervals can be used to monitor for inadvertent atrial capture during para-Hisian pacing. A stim-PCS < 60 ms (or stim-HRA < 70 ms) and stim-PCS > 90 ms (or stim-HRA > 100 ms) were observed only with and without atrial capture, respectively, but there was significant overlap between these values. Deliberate atrial capture and loss of capture reliably identifies atrial capture regardless of intervals.

  1. An all-silicon optical PC-to-PC link utilizing USB

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Goosen, Marius E.; Alberts, Antonie C.; Venter, Petrus J.; du Plessis, Monuko; Rademeyer, Pieter

    2013-02-01

    An integrated silicon light source still remains the Holy Grail for integrated optical communication systems. Hot carrier luminescent light sources provide a way to create light in a standard CMOS process, potentially enabling cost effective optical communication between CMOS integrated circuits. In this paper we present a 1 Mb/s integrated silicon optical link for information transfer, targeting a real-world integrated solution by connecting two PCs via a USB port while transferring data optically between the devices. This realization represents the first optical communication product prototype utilizing a CMOS light emitter. The silicon light sources which are implemented in a standard 0.35 μm CMOS technology are electrically modulated and detected using a commercial silicon avalanche photodiode. Data rates exceeding 10 Mb/s using silicon light sources have previously been demonstrated using raw bit streams. In this work data is sent in two half duplex streams accompanied with the separate transmission of a clock. Such an optical communication system could find application in high noise environments where data fidelity, range and cost are a determining factor.

  2. Age, mode of conception, health service use and pregnancy health: a prospective cohort study of Australian women

    PubMed Central

    2013-01-01

    Background There is limited evidence about the ways in which maternal age and mode of conception interact with psychological, sociodemographic, health and health service factors in governing pregnancy health. The aim of this study was to establish in what ways maternal age and mode of conception are associated with, health behaviours, health service use and self-rated physical and mental health during pregnancy. Method A prospective cohort study was conducted in a collaboration between universities, infertility treatment services and public and private obstetric hospitals in Melbourne and Sydney, Australia,. Consecutive cohorts of nulliparous English-literate women at least 28 weeks pregnant who had conceived through ART (ARTC) or spontaneously (SC) in three age-groups: 20–30; 31–36 and at least 37 years were recruited. Data were obtained via structured individual telephone interviews and self-report postal questionnaires at recruitment and four months postpartum. Study-specific questions assessed: sociodemographic characteristics; reproductive health; health behaviours and health service use. Standardized instruments assessed physical health: SF 12 Physical Component Score (PCS) and mental health: SF12 Mental Component Score (MCS); State Trait Anxiety Inventory and Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. The main outcome measures were the SF 12 PCS, SF12 MCS scores and pregnancy-related hospital admissions. Results Of 1179 eligible women 791 (67%) participated, 27 had fertility treatment without oocyte retrieval and were excluded and 592/764 (78%) completed all pregnancy assessments. When other factors were controlled speaking a language other than English, having private health insurance and multiple gestation were associated with worse physical health and having private health insurance and better physical health were associated with better mental health. Pregnancy-related hospital admissions were associated with worse physical health and multiple gestation. Conclusions Maternal age and mode of conception are not associated with pregnancy health and health service use when sociodemographic factors are considered. PMID:23565589

  3. Preparation of porous carbon spheres from 2-keto-l-gulonic acid mother liquor by oxidation and activation for electric double-layer capacitor application.

    PubMed

    Hao, Zhi-Qiang; Cao, Jing-Pei; Zhao, Xiao-Yan; Wu, Yan; Zhu, Jun-Sheng; Dang, Ya-Li; Zhuang, Qi-Qi; Wei, Xian-Yong

    2018-03-01

    A novel strategy is proposed for the increase of specific surface area (SSA) of porous carbon sphere (PCS) by oxidation and activation. 2-keto-l-gulonic acid mother liquor (GAML) as a high-pollution waste has a relatively high value of reutilization. For its high value-added utilization, GAML is used as the precursor for preparation of PCS as carbon-based electrode materials for electric double-layer capacitor. PCS is prepared by hydrothermal carbonization, carbonization and KOH activation, and Fe(NO 3 ) 3 9H 2 O is used as an oxidizing agent during carbonization. The as-prepared PCS has excellent porosity and high SSA of 2478 m 2  g -1 . Meanwhile, the pore structure of PCS can be controlled by the adjustment of carbonization parameters (carbonization temperature and the loading of Fe(NO 3 ) 3 9H 2 O). Besides, the SSA and specific capacitance of PCS can be increased remarkably when Fe(NO 3 ) 3 9H 2 O is added in carbonization. The specific capacitance of PCS can reach 303.7 F g -1 at 40 mA g -1 . PCSs as electrode material have superior electrochemical stability. After 8000 cycles, the capacitance retention is 98.3% at 2 A g -1 . The electric double-layer capacitance of PCS is improved when CS is carbonized with Fe(NO 3 ) 3 9H 2 O, and the economic and environmental benefits are achieved by the effective recycle of GAML. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  4. Tunability of soft phononic crystals through large deformation (Conference Presentation)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bao, Ronghao; Chen, Weiqiu

    2017-04-01

    Phononic crystals (PCs) have attracted plenty of attention during the past two decades, and a lot of work has been devoted to the numerical, theoretical and experimental analysis of the band gaps of the PCs with 1D, 2D and 3D structures, respectively. The band gaps have been found to be related to the topology of the unit cell, filling ratio, contrast of the material properties between matrix and inclusion, and so on. However, they are fixed when the fabrication of corresponding devices is finished in most cases. Usually, biasing fields (e.g. initial stress, initial deformation, pre-existing electric field, external electric field and magnetic field, etc.) can be utilized to tailor the band gaps in flexible and reconfigurable ways. Recently, the instability-induced deformations triggered by external mechanical loadings have been found to be an effective and reversible way to tune the band gaps and the directionality of PCs made from soft materials, such as silicon and rubber. In this project, a novel design of PCs will be proposed, which consists of perforated plate with some individual beams fixed on the boundary of internal holes. When the external mechanical loading applied on the PCs reaches a threshold value, instability-induced buckling will be triggered and the internal beams might be in contact with each other, which will significantly alter the topology of PCs, and therefore effectively tune the band gaps of PCs. A systematical analysis will be carried out to study the influences on the tunability of PCs with different designs through finite element methods (FEM).

  5. Gastrointestinal interactions, absorption, splanchnic metabolism and pharmacokinetics of orally ingested phenolic compounds.

    PubMed

    Domínguez-Avila, J Abraham; Wall-Medrano, Abraham; Velderrain-Rodríguez, Gustavo R; Chen, C-Y Oliver; Salazar-López, Norma Julieta; Robles-Sánchez, Maribel; González-Aguilar, Gustavo A

    2017-01-25

    The positive health effects of phenolic compounds (PCs) have been extensively reported in the literature. An understanding of their bioaccessibility and bioavailability is essential for the elucidation of their health benefits. Before reaching circulation and exerting bioactions in target tissues, numerous interactions take place before and during digestion with either the plant or host's macromolecules that directly impact the organism and modulate their own bioaccessibility and bioavailability. The present work is focused on the gastrointestinal (GI) interactions that are relevant to the absorption and metabolism of PCs and how these interactions impact their pharmacokinetic profiles. Non-digestible cell wall components (fiber) interact intimately with PCs and delay their absorption in the small intestine, instead carrying them to the large intestine. PCs not bound to fiber interact with digestible nutrients in the bolus where they interfere with the digestion and absorption of proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, cholesterol, bile salts and micronutrients through the inhibition of digestive enzymes and enterocyte transporters and the disruption of micelle formation. PCs internalized by enterocytes may reach circulation (through transcellular or paracellular transport), be effluxed back into the lumen (P-glycoprotein, P-gp) or be metabolized by phase I and phase II enzymes. Some PCs can inhibit P-gp or phase I/II enzymes, which can potentially lead to drug-nutrient interactions. The absorption and pharmacokinetic parameters are modified by all of the interactions within the digestive tract and by the presence of other PCs. Undesirable interactions have promoted the development of nanotechnological approaches to promote the bioaccessibility, bioavailability, and bioefficacy of PCs.

  6. Wireless teleradiology and fax using cellular phones and notebook PCs for instant access to consultants.

    PubMed

    Yamamoto, L G

    1995-03-01

    The feasibility of wireless portable teleradiology and facsimile (fax) transmission using a pocket cellular phone and a notebook computer to obtain immediate access to consultants at any location was studied. Modems specially designed for data and fax communication via cellular systems were employed to provide a data communication interface between the cellular phone and the notebook computer. Computed tomography (CT) scans, X-rays, and electrocardiograms (ECGs) were transmitted to a wireless unit to measure performance characteristics. Data transmission rates ranged from 520 to 1100 bytes per second. Typical image transmission times ranged from 1 to 10 minutes; however, using joint photographic experts group or fractal image compression methods would shorten typical transmission times to less than one minute. This study showed that wireless teleradiology and fax over cellular communication systems are feasible with current technology. Routine immediate cellular faxing of ECGs to cardiologists may expedite thrombolytic therapy decisions in questionable cases. Routine immediate teleradiology of CT scans may reduce operation room preparation times in severe head trauma.

  7. Learner-Centred Mathematics and Statistics Education Using Netbook Tablet PCs

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Loch, Birgit; Galligan, Linda; Hobohm, Carola; McDonald, Christine

    2011-01-01

    Tablet technology has been shown to support learner-centred mathematics education when this technology is available to both the lecturer and the students. However, cost is often the barrier to students' use of tablet PCs for their university studies. This article argues that more affordable netbook PCs with tablet capabilities can be viable…

  8. The challenge of mapping between two medical coding systems.

    PubMed

    Wojcik, Barbara E; Stein, Catherine R; Devore, Raymond B; Hassell, L Harrison

    2006-11-01

    Deployable medical systems patient conditions (PCs) designate groups of patients with similar medical conditions and, therefore, similar treatment requirements. PCs are used by the U.S. military to estimate field medical resources needed in combat operations. Information associated with each of the 389 PCs is based on subject matter expert opinion, instead of direct derivation from standard medical codes. Currently, no mechanisms exist to tie current or historical medical data to PCs. Our study objective was to determine whether reliable conversion between PC codes and International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM) diagnosis codes is possible. Data were analyzed for three professional coders assigning all applicable ICD-9-CM diagnosis codes to each PC code. Inter-rater reliability was measured by using Cohen's K statistic and percent agreement. Methods were developed to calculate kappa statistics when multiple responses could be selected from many possible categories. Overall, we found moderate support for the possibility of reliable conversion between PCs and ICD-9-CM diagnoses (mean kappa = 0.61). Current PCs should be modified into a system that is verifiable with real data.

  9. Burst mode PCS of EPON

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Du, Xiao

    2005-02-01

    Normal GIGA ETHERNET continuously transmits or receives 8B/10B codes including data codes, idle codes or configuration information. In ETHERNET network, one computer links one port of switch through CAT5 and that is OK. But for EPON, it is different. All ONUs share one fiber in upstream, if we inherit the GIGA ETHERNET PHY, then collision will occur. All ONUs always transmit 8B/10B codes, and the optical signal will overlay. The OLT will receive the fault information. So we need a novel EPON PHY instead of ETHERNET PHY. But its major function is compatible with ETHERNET"s. In this article, first, the function of PCS sub layer is discussed and a novel PCS module is given that can be used in not only EPON system but also in GIGA ETHERNET system. The design of PCS is based on 1000BASE-X PCS technology. And the function of 1000BASE-X PCS should be accomplished first. Next we modify the design in order to meet the requirements of EPON system. In the new design, the auto negotiation and synchronization is the same to the 1000 BASE-X technology.

  10. Structural differences between cell matrix and culture medium N-linked oligosaccharides on heavy proteochondroitin sulfate proteoglycan (PCS-H)

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

    Cioffi, L.; Conrad, H.E.

    1986-05-01

    Tibial chondrocytes were labeled metabolically with /sup 3/H-man and the PCS-H was isolated from the culture medium (CM) and the cell matrix (Ma) pools. Equal amounts of /sup 3/H were incorporated into the PCS-H of the CM and Ma pools. The PCS-H pools were digested with thermolysin, Chondroitinase, and then N-glycanase, and the N-linked oligosaccharides were chromatographed on Con-A Sepharose. The ratios of complex to high mannose oligosaccharides for the CM and Ma were 6.1 and 2.6, respectively. More than 60% of the complex CM N-linked oligosaccharides were charged species whereas only 40% of the Ma N-linked oligosaccharides were charged.more » The oligosaccharides were analyzed by HPLC. Both complex and high mannose oligosaccharides found in the PCS-H of the CM and Ma pools were mixtures of identical structures but the amounts of each structure in the two pools showed marked differences. These observations indicate that distinct PCS-H species are found in the CM and Ma pools.« less

  11. Study on the fabrication of composite photonic crystals with high structural stability by co-sedimentation self-assembly on fabric substrates

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Yichen; Zhou, Lan; Liu, Guojin; Chai, Liqin; Fan, Qinguo; Shao, Jianzhong

    2018-06-01

    The Silica/Poly(methylmethacrylate-butylacrylate)[SiO2/P(MMA-BA)] photonic crystals(PCs) with brilliant structural colors were fabricated on fabric substrates by co-sedimentation self-assembly, in which the relatively smaller P(MMA-BA) copolymer particles filled in the interstices among the larger SiO2 microspheres. The fabricated composite PCs were mechanically robust and strongly bonded to the substrate because of the cementing effect caused by the soft P(MMA-BA) copolymer particles filling in the interstices of the SiO2 microspheres like cement filling in the gap and tightly holding stones in a sturdy cement wall. The volume fraction and the size ratios of the two components significantly influenced the structural colors of the composite PCs, and the larger volume fraction could improve the structural stability of the composite PCs, while the smaller size ratios could enhance the brightness of the structural colors of the composite PCs. The composite PCs with both high structural stability and brilliant structural colors have great application prospect for structural coloration of textiles.

  12. Dual-Responsive SPMA-Modified Polymer Photonic Crystals and Their Dynamic Display Patterns.

    PubMed

    Gao, Zewen; Gao, Dongsheng; Huang, Chao; Zhang, Hanbing; Guo, Jinbao; Wei, Jie

    2018-05-28

    Light and electrothermal responsive polymer photonic crystals (PCs) modified with 1'-acryloyl chloride-3',3'-dimethyl-6-nitro-spiro(2H-1-benzopyran-2,2'-indoline) (SPMA) are proposed, and their dynamic display patterns are achieved through the combination of the SPMA-modified PCs and a patterned graphite layer. These PCs exhibit fluorescence under UV light irradiation because of the isomerization of the SPMA, which is restricted in the shell of the polymer colloidal spheres. After a voltage is applied to the patterned graphite layer, the fluorescence of PCs in the specific area disappears, and dynamic display patterns are obtained. Under UV light irradiation, the PCs change from the "partial-fluorescence" state to the initial "fluorescence" state, and the patterns disappear. Using this technique, the PC pattern "M L N" on the glass substrate and PC patterns from "0" to "9" on the paper substrate are fabricated. Thus, these dual-responsive PCs have potential applications in information recording, anticounterfeiting, dynamic display, and photoelectric devices. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  13. Short-Term Memory for Space and Time Flexibly Recruit Complementary Sensory-Biased Frontal Lobe Attention Networks.

    PubMed

    Michalka, Samantha W; Kong, Lingqiang; Rosen, Maya L; Shinn-Cunningham, Barbara G; Somers, David C

    2015-08-19

    The frontal lobes control wide-ranging cognitive functions; however, functional subdivisions of human frontal cortex are only coarsely mapped. Here, functional magnetic resonance imaging reveals two distinct visual-biased attention regions in lateral frontal cortex, superior precentral sulcus (sPCS) and inferior precentral sulcus (iPCS), anatomically interdigitated with two auditory-biased attention regions, transverse gyrus intersecting precentral sulcus (tgPCS) and caudal inferior frontal sulcus (cIFS). Intrinsic functional connectivity analysis demonstrates that sPCS and iPCS fall within a broad visual-attention network, while tgPCS and cIFS fall within a broad auditory-attention network. Interestingly, we observe that spatial and temporal short-term memory (STM), respectively, recruit visual and auditory attention networks in the frontal lobe, independent of sensory modality. These findings not only demonstrate that both sensory modality and information domain influence frontal lobe functional organization, they also demonstrate that spatial processing co-localizes with visual processing and that temporal processing co-localizes with auditory processing in lateral frontal cortex. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  14. Current Public Knowledge Pertaining to Traumatic Brain Injury: Influence of Demographic Factors, Social Trends, and Sport Concussion Experience on the Understanding of Traumatic Brain Injury Sequelae.

    PubMed

    Merz, Zachary C; Van Patten, Ryan; Lace, John

    2017-03-01

    The current study aimed to assess current broad traumatic brain injury (TBI)-related knowledge in the general public, as well as understanding regarding specific TBI-related conditions including post-concussive syndrome (PCS) and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). Data were collected from 307 domestic and 73 international individuals via online researcher-developed survey instrumentation utilizing the Amazon Mechanical Turk marketplace, a recently developed website that allows for a streamlined process of survey-based participant recruitment and data collection. Participants completed background demographics questions, a 31-item true/false questionnaire pertaining to TBI-related knowledge, and an inquiry related to willingness to allow (future) child(ren) to participate in several popular U.S. sports. The overall accuracy rate of our U.S. sample was 61%. No accuracy differences were present for gender or geographic region (p's > .05). Participants who self-reported a prior concussion diagnosis, who reported receiving formal concussion training, and who endorsed participation in collegiate, semi-professional, or professional athletic competition, all exhibited lower accuracy rates than the respective comparison groups (p's < .001). Finally, individual item analysis revealed the presence of significant misconceptions pertaining to PCS and CTE. Misconceptions regarding TBI remain highly prevalent within the general public and may be explained, to some extent, by inefficiencies in current TBI-education practices. Moreover, misconceptions regarding PCS and CTE are also prevalent and likely reflect inconsistencies in the scientific literature, coupled with misleading media reports. To combat these trends, greater emphasis must be placed on construct definition within the field and streamlined, efficient communication with the general public. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

  15. Caspase-mediated apoptosis induction in zebrafish cerebellar Purkinje neurons.

    PubMed

    Weber, Thomas; Namikawa, Kazuhiko; Winter, Barbara; Müller-Brown, Karina; Kühn, Ralf; Wurst, Wolfgang; Köster, Reinhard W

    2016-11-15

    The zebrafish is a well-established model organism in which to study in vivo mechanisms of cell communication, differentiation and function. Existing cell ablation methods are either invasive or they rely on the cellular expression of prokaryotic enzymes and the use of antibiotic drugs as cell death-inducing compounds. We have recently established a novel inducible genetic cell ablation system based on tamoxifen-inducible Caspase 8 activity, thereby exploiting mechanisms of cell death intrinsic to most cell types. Here, we prove its suitability in vivo by monitoring the ablation of cerebellar Purkinje cells (PCs) in transgenic zebrafish that co-express the inducible caspase and a fluorescent reporter. Incubation of larvae in tamoxifen for 8 h activated endogenous Caspase 3 and cell death, whereas incubation for 16 h led to the near-complete loss of PCs by apoptosis. We observed synchronous cell death autonomous to the PC population and phagocytosing microglia in the cerebellum, reminiscent of developmental apoptosis in the forebrain. Thus, induction of apoptosis through targeted activation of caspase by tamoxifen (ATTAC TM ) further expands the repertoire of genetic tools for conditional interrogation of cellular functions. © 2016. Published by The Company of Biologists Ltd.

  16. Enabling co-simulation of tokamak plant models and plasma control systems

    DOE PAGES

    Walker, M. L.

    2017-12-22

    A system for connecting the Plasma Control System and a model of the tokamak Plant in closed loop co-simulation for plasma control development has been in routine use at DIII-D for more than 20 years and at other fusion labs that use variants of the DIII-D PCS for approximately the last decade. Here, co-simulation refers to the simultaneous execution of two independent codes with the exchange of data - Plant actuator commands and tokamak diagnostic data - between them during execution. Interest in this type of PCS-Plant simulation technology has also been growing recently at other fusion facilities. In fact,more » use of such closed loop control simulations is assumed to play an even larger role in the development of both the ITER Plasma Control System (PCS) and the experimental operation of the ITER device, where they will be used to support verification/validation of the PCS and also for ITER pulse schedule development and validation. We describe the key use cases that motivate the co-simulation capability and the features that must be provided by the Plasma Control System to support it. These features could be provided by the PCS itself or by a model of the PCS. If the PCS itself is chosen to provide them, there are requirements imposed on its architecture. If a PCS model is chosen, there are requirements imposed on the initial implementation of this simulation as well as long-term consequences for its continued development and maintenance. We describe these issues for each use case and discuss the relative merits of the two choices. Several examples are given illustrating uses of the co-simulation method to address problems of plasma control during the operation of DIII-D and of other devices that use the DIII-D PCS.« less

  17. Enabling co-simulation of tokamak plant models and plasma control systems

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

    Walker, M. L.

    A system for connecting the Plasma Control System and a model of the tokamak Plant in closed loop co-simulation for plasma control development has been in routine use at DIII-D for more than 20 years and at other fusion labs that use variants of the DIII-D PCS for approximately the last decade. Here, co-simulation refers to the simultaneous execution of two independent codes with the exchange of data - Plant actuator commands and tokamak diagnostic data - between them during execution. Interest in this type of PCS-Plant simulation technology has also been growing recently at other fusion facilities. In fact,more » use of such closed loop control simulations is assumed to play an even larger role in the development of both the ITER Plasma Control System (PCS) and the experimental operation of the ITER device, where they will be used to support verification/validation of the PCS and also for ITER pulse schedule development and validation. We describe the key use cases that motivate the co-simulation capability and the features that must be provided by the Plasma Control System to support it. These features could be provided by the PCS itself or by a model of the PCS. If the PCS itself is chosen to provide them, there are requirements imposed on its architecture. If a PCS model is chosen, there are requirements imposed on the initial implementation of this simulation as well as long-term consequences for its continued development and maintenance. We describe these issues for each use case and discuss the relative merits of the two choices. Several examples are given illustrating uses of the co-simulation method to address problems of plasma control during the operation of DIII-D and of other devices that use the DIII-D PCS.« less

  18. Dynamic NMDAR-mediated properties of place cells during the object place memory task.

    PubMed

    Faust, Thomas W; Robbiati, Sergio; Huerta, Tomás S; Huerta, Patricio T

    2013-01-01

    N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDAR) in the hippocampus participate in encoding and recalling the location of objects in the environment, but the ensemble mechanisms by which NMDARs mediate these processes have not been completely elucidated. To address this issue, we examined the firing patterns of place cells in the dorsal CA1 area of the hippocampus of mice (n = 7) that performed an object place memory (OPM) task, consisting of familiarization (T1), sample (T2), and choice (T3) trials, after systemic injection of 3-[(±)2-carboxypiperazin-4yl]propyl-1-phosphate (CPP), a specific NMDAR antagonist. Place cell properties under CPP (CPP-PCs) were compared to those after control saline injection (SAL-PCs) in the same mice. We analyzed place cells across the OPM task to determine whether they signaled the introduction or movement of objects by NMDAR-mediated changes of their spatial coding. On T2, when two objects were first introduced to a familiar chamber, CPP-PCs and SAL-PCs showed stable, vanishing or moving place fields in addition to changes in spatial information (SI). These metrics were comparable between groups. Remarkably, previously inactive CPP-PCs (with place fields emerging de novo on T2) had significantly weaker SI increases than SAL-PCs. On T3, when one object was moved, CPP-PCs showed reduced center-of-mass (COM) shift of their place fields. Indeed, a subset of SAL-PCs with large COM shifts (>7 cm) was largely absent in the CPP condition. Notably, for SAL-PCs that exhibited COM shifts, those initially close to the moving object followed the trajectory of the object, whereas those far from the object did the opposite. Our results strongly suggest that the SI changes and COM shifts of place fields that occur during the OPM task reflect key dynamic properties that are mediated by NMDARs and might be responsible for binding object identity with location.

  19. Dynamic NMDAR-mediated properties of place cells during the object place memory task

    PubMed Central

    Faust, Thomas W.; Robbiati, Sergio; Huerta, Tomás S.; Huerta, Patricio T.

    2013-01-01

    N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDAR) in the hippocampus participate in encoding and recalling the location of objects in the environment, but the ensemble mechanisms by which NMDARs mediate these processes have not been completely elucidated. To address this issue, we examined the firing patterns of place cells in the dorsal CA1 area of the hippocampus of mice (n = 7) that performed an object place memory (OPM) task, consisting of familiarization (T1), sample (T2), and choice (T3) trials, after systemic injection of 3-[(±)2-carboxypiperazin-4yl]propyl-1-phosphate (CPP), a specific NMDAR antagonist. Place cell properties under CPP (CPP–PCs) were compared to those after control saline injection (SAL–PCs) in the same mice. We analyzed place cells across the OPM task to determine whether they signaled the introduction or movement of objects by NMDAR-mediated changes of their spatial coding. On T2, when two objects were first introduced to a familiar chamber, CPP–PCs and SAL–PCs showed stable, vanishing or moving place fields in addition to changes in spatial information (SI). These metrics were comparable between groups. Remarkably, previously inactive CPP–PCs (with place fields emerging de novo on T2) had significantly weaker SI increases than SAL–PCs. On T3, when one object was moved, CPP–PCs showed reduced center-of-mass (COM) shift of their place fields. Indeed, a subset of SAL–PCs with large COM shifts (>7 cm) was largely absent in the CPP condition. Notably, for SAL–PCs that exhibited COM shifts, those initially close to the moving object followed the trajectory of the object, whereas those far from the object did the opposite. Our results strongly suggest that the SI changes and COM shifts of place fields that occur during the OPM task reflect key dynamic properties that are mediated by NMDARs and might be responsible for binding object identity with location. PMID:24381547

  20. Through babies' eyes: Practical and theoretical considerations of using wearable technology to measure parent-infant behaviour from the mothers' and infants' view points.

    PubMed

    Lee, R; Skinner, A; Bornstein, M H; Radford, A N; Campbell, A; Graham, K; Pearson, R M

    2017-05-01

    To explore the utility of first-person viewpoint cameras at home, for recording mother and infant behaviour, and for reducing problems associated with participant reactivity, which represent a fundamental bias in observational research. We compared footage recording the same play interactions from a traditional third-person point of view (3rd PC) and using cameras worn on headbands (first-person cameras [1st PCs]) to record first-person points of view of mother and infant simultaneously. In addition, we left the dyads alone with the 1st PCs for a number of days to record natural mother-child behaviour at home. Fifteen mothers with infants (3-12 months of age) provided a total of 14h of footage at home alone with the 1st PCs. Codings of maternal behaviour from footage of the same scenario captured from 1st PCs and 3rd PCs showed high concordance (kappa >0.8). Footage captured by the 1st PCs also showed strong inter-rater reliability (kappa=0.9). Data from 1st PCs during sessions recorded alone at home captured more 'negative' maternal behaviours per min than observations using 1st PCs whilst a researcher was present (mean difference=0.90 (95% CI 0.5-1.2, p<0.001 representing 1.5 SDs). 1st PCs offer a number of practical advantages and can reliably record maternal and infant behaviour. This approach can also record a higher frequency of less socially desirable maternal behaviours. It is unclear whether this difference is due to lack of need of the presence of researcher or the increased duration of recordings. This finding is potentially important for research questions aiming to capture more ecologically valid behaviours and reduce demand characteristics. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  1. Tile-based Level of Detail for the Parallel Age

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

    Niski, K; Cohen, J D

    Today's PCs incorporate multiple CPUs and GPUs and are easily arranged in clusters for high-performance, interactive graphics. We present an approach based on hierarchical, screen-space tiles to parallelizing rendering with level of detail. Adapt tiles, render tiles, and machine tiles are associated with CPUs, GPUs, and PCs, respectively, to efficiently parallelize the workload with good resource utilization. Adaptive tile sizes provide load balancing while our level of detail system allows total and independent management of the load on CPUs and GPUs. We demonstrate our approach on parallel configurations consisting of both single PCs and a cluster of PCs.

  2. Clinical use of Skype: a review of the evidence base.

    PubMed

    Armfield, Nigel R; Gray, Leonard C; Smith, Anthony C

    2012-04-01

    Skype is a popular and free software application that allows PCs and mobile devices to be used for video communication over the Internet. We reviewed the literature to determine whether the clinical use of Skype is supported by evidence. One small (n = 7) controlled clinical trial had assessed the effect of nursing communication using Skype on elderly patients with dementia and their carers. However, we were unable to identify any large, well-designed studies which had formally evaluated the safety, clinical effectiveness, security and privacy of Skype for the routine delivery of patient care. While there were many case reports and small studies, no firm evidence either in favour of, or against the use of Skype for clinical telehealth was found. The risks and benefits of using Skype for clinical purposes are not known.

  3. Noninvasive pH monitoring of platelet concentrates: a large field test.

    PubMed

    Gkoumassi, Effimia; Klein-Bosgoed, Christa; Dijkstra-Tiekstra, Margriet J; de Korte, Dirk; de Wildt-Eggen, Janny

    2013-10-01

    Developing new quality control methods for platelet concentrates (PCs) can contribute to increasing transfusion safety and efficiency. The aim of this study was to investigate in a large field test the quality of expired PCs and whether 100% noninvasive pH monitoring can be used to predict PC quality. The pH of 13,693 PCs produced for transfusion was monitored daily using Blood Storage, Inc.'s pH sterile, automated fluoroscopic evaluation technology. Upon indication of compromised quality or expiration, PCs were returned and in vitro tests were performed. A total of 998 PCs were returned, of which 962 outdated, 26 had a positive BacT/ALERT reaction, seven had aggregates, one was without swirl, one had low pH, and one had high pH. BacT/ALERT was faster in identifying bacterial contamination than pH measurements. The pH at the end of the storage period was significantly lower than at the beginning. In vitro tests indicated that while the PC quality was acceptable upon expiration, it rapidly declined after expiration. In this setting where the vast majority of PCs were of good quality and within acceptable pH limits, daily, noninvasive routine pH measurement has limited added value in identifying quality-compromised PCs. © 2013 Sanquin Research. Transfusion © 2013 American Association of Blood Banks.

  4. Use of the SF-8 to assess health-related quality of life for a chronically ill, low-income population participating in the Central Louisiana Medication Access Program (CMAP).

    PubMed

    Lefante, John J; Harmon, Gary N; Ashby, Keith M; Barnard, David; Webber, Larry S

    2005-04-01

    The utility of the SF-8 for assessing health-related quality of life (HRQL) is demonstrated. Race and gender differences in physical component (PCS) and mental component (MCS) summary scores among participants in the CENLA Medication Access Program (CMAP), along with comparisons to the United States population are made. Age-adjusted multiple linear regression analyses were used to compare 1687 CMAP participants to the US population. Internal race and gender comparisons, adjusting for age and the number of self reported diagnoses, were also obtained. The paired t-test was used to assess 6-month change in PCS and MCS scores for a subset of 342 participants. CMAP participants have PCS and MCS scores that are significantly 10-12 points lower than the US population, indicating lower self-reported HRQL. Females have significantly higher PCS and significantly lower MCS than males. African-Americans have significantly higher MCS than Caucasians. Significant increases in both PCS and MCS were observed for the subset of participants after 6 months of intervention. The expected lower baseline PCS and MCS measures and the expected associations with age and number of diagnoses indicate that the SF-8 survey is an effective tool for measuring the HRQL of participants in this program. Preliminary results indicate significant increases in both PCS and MCS 6 months after intervention.

  5. The production of p-cresol sulfate and indoxyl sulfate in vegetarians versus omnivores.

    PubMed

    Patel, Kajal P; Luo, Frank J-G; Plummer, Natalie S; Hostetter, Thomas H; Meyer, Timothy W

    2012-06-01

    The uremic solutes p-cresol sulfate (PCS) and indoxyl sulfate (IS) are generated by colon bacteria acting on food components that escape absorption in the small bowel. The production of these potentially toxic compounds may thus be influenced by diet. This study examined whether production of PCS and IS is different in vegetarians and omnivores. The production of PCS and IS was assessed by measuring their urinary excretion rates in participants with normal kidney function. Studies were carried out in 15 vegetarians and 11 individuals consuming an unrestricted diet. Participants recorded food intake over 4 days and collected urine over the final 2 days of each of two study periods, which were 1 month apart. Average PCS excretion was 62% lower (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 15-83) and average IS excretion was 58% lower (95% CI, 39-71) in vegetarians than in participants consuming an unrestricted diet. Food records revealed that lower excretion of PCS and IS in vegetarians was associated with a 69% higher (95% CI, 20-139) fiber intake and a 25% lower (95% CI, 3-42) protein intake. PCS and IS excretion rates varied widely among individual participants and were not closely correlated with each other but tended to remain stable in individual participants over 1 month. PCS and IS production rates are markedly lower in vegetarians than in individuals consuming an unrestricted diet.

  6. Three-Dimensional Self-Assembled Photonic Crystal Waveguide

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Baek, Kang-Hyun

    Photonic crystals (PCs), two- or three-dimensionally periodic, artificial, and dielectric structures, have a specific forbidden band for electromagnetic waves, referred to as photonic bandgap (PBG). The PBG is analogous to the electronic bandgap in natural crystal structures with periodic atomic arrangement. A well-defined and embedded planar, line, or point defect within the PCs causes a break in its structural periodicity, and introduces a state in the PBG for light localization. It offers various applications in integrated optics and photonics including optical filters, sharp bending light guides and very low threshold lasers. Using nanofabrication processes, PCs of the 2-D slab-type and 3-D layer-by-layer structures have been investigated widely. Alternatively, simple and low-cost self-assembled PCs with full 3-D PBG, inverse opals, have been suggested. A template with face centered cubic closed packed structure, opal, may initially be built by self-assembly of colloidal spheres, and is selectively removed after infiltrating high refractive index materials into the interstitials of spheres. In this dissertation, the optical waveguides utilizing the 3-D self-assembled PCs are discussed. The waveguides were fabricated by microfabrication technology. For high-quality colloidal silica spheres and PCs, reliable synthesis, self-assembly, and characterization techniques were developed. Its theoretical and experimental demonstrations are provided and correlated. They suggest that the self-assembled PCs with PBG are feasible for the applications in integrated optics and photonics.

  7. A pilot treatment study for mild traumatic brain injury: Neuroimaging changes detected by MEG after low-intensity pulse-based transcranial electrical stimulation.

    PubMed

    Huang, Ming-Xiong; Swan, Ashley Robb; Quinto, Annemarie Angeles; Matthews, Scott; Harrington, Deborah L; Nichols, Sharon; Bruder, Barry J; Snook, Corey C; Huang, Charles W; Baker, Dewleen G; Lee, Roland R

    2017-01-01

    Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is a leading cause of sustained impairments in military service members, Veterans, and civilians. However, few treatments are available for mTBI, partially because the mechanism of persistent mTBI deficits is not fully understood. We used magnetoencephalography (MEG) to investigate neuronal changes in individuals with mTBI following a passive neurofeedback-based treatment programme called IASIS. This programme involved applying low-intensity pulses using transcranial electrical stimulation (LIP-tES) with electroencephalography monitoring. Study participants included six individuals with mTBI and persistent post-concussive symptoms (PCS). MEG exams were performed at baseline and follow-up to evaluate the effect of IASIS on brain functioning. At the baseline MEG exam, all participants had abnormal slow-waves. In the follow-up MEG exam, the participants showed significantly reduced abnormal slow-waves with an average reduction of 53.6 ± 24.6% in slow-wave total score. The participants also showed significant reduction of PCS scores after IASIS treatment, with an average reduction of 52.76 ± 26.4% in PCS total score. The present study demonstrates, for the first time, the neuroimaging-based documentation of the effect of LIP-tES treatment on brain functioning in mTBI. The mechanisms of LIP-tES treatment are discussed, with an emphasis on LIP-tES's potentiation of the mTBI healing process.

  8. Portable Chemical Sterilizer (PCS) for Surgical Instruments

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2004-12-01

    PORTABLE CHEMICAL STERILIZER (PCS) FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS CJ Doona*, FE Feeherry, MA Curtin‡, K Kustin‡, S Kandlikar‡ U.S. Army-Soldier...denotes Contractors) Biomedical Technologies ABSTRACT A novel device called the Portable Chemical Sterilizer (PCS) has been developed for the...rapid, safe, portable, power-free, and convenient sterilization of objects or surfaces contaminated with pathogenic microorganisms that cause

  9. Using Tablet PCs in the Classroom: An Investigation of Students' Expectations and Reactions

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bonds-Raacke, Jennifer M.; Raacke, John D.

    2008-01-01

    The purposes of the current experiments were to investigate: (a) students' expectations with regard to the use of Tablet PCs within the classroom, (b) students' attitudes toward the implementation of Tablet PCs within the classroom, and (c) the resulting classroom environment from the use of various technologies. Results indicated that although…

  10. Scaffolding Equals Success in Teaching Tablet PCs

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Dickerson, Jeremy; Williams, Scott; Browning, J. B.

    2009-01-01

    After many years of using the mouse and keyboard as the primary means of computer input, people are seeing a strong surge into a new generation of input technologies such as tablet PCs. As more professionals adopt tablet PCs for use in the workplace, there is a subsequent increased demand for tablet PC instruction in the classroom. Examples of…

  11. Tablet PCs in Engineering Mathematics Courses at the J.B. Speed School of Engineering

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hieb, Jeffrey L.; Ralston, Patricia A. S.

    2010-01-01

    In fall 2007, J.B. Speed School of Engineering at the University of Louisville joined the ranks of universities requiring the purchase of Tablet PCs for all new entering students. This article presents a description of how the Department of Engineering Fundamentals incorporated Tablet PCs into their instruction, a review of the literature…

  12. Tablet PCs: The Write Approach

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Milner, Jacob

    2006-01-01

    This article discusses the transforming effects of tablet PCs in the classroom. As 1-to-1 computing becomes the goal on K-12 campuses, school districts are turning to this newer, pen-based technology. Saint Mary's School's new Lenovo ThinkPad X41 tablet PCs had transformed the way Saint Mary's teachers did their jobs. Teachers created outlines for…

  13. Predictors of postconcussion syndrome after sports-related concussion in young athletes: a matched case-control study.

    PubMed

    Morgan, Clinton D; Zuckerman, Scott L; Lee, Young M; King, Lauren; Beaird, Susan; Sills, Allen K; Solomon, Gary S

    2015-06-01

    OBJECT Sport-related concussion (SRC) is a major public health problem. Approximately 90% of SRCs in high school athletes are transient; symptoms recover to baseline within 1 week. However, a small percentage of patients remain symptomatic several months after injury, with a condition known as postconcussion syndrome (PCS). The authors aimed to identify risk factors for PCS development in a cohort of exclusively young athletes (9-18 years of age) who sustained SRCs while playing a sport. METHODS The authors conducted a retrospective case-control study by using the Vanderbilt Sports Concussion Clinic database. They identified 40 patients with PCS and matched them by age at injury and sex to SRC control patients (1 PCS to 2 control). PCS patients were those experiencing persistent symptoms at 3 months after an SRC. Control patients were those with documented resolution of symptoms within 3 weeks of an SRC. Data were collected in 4 categories: 1) demographic variables; 2) key medical, psychiatric, and family history; 3) acute-phase postinjury symptoms (at 0-24 hours); and 4) subacute-phase postinjury features (at 0-3 weeks). The chi-square Fisher exact test was used to assess categorical variables, and the Mann-Whitney U-test was used to evaluate continuous variables. Forward stepwise regression models (Pin = 0.05, Pout = 0.10) were used to identify variables associated with PCS. RESULTS PCS patients were more likely than control patients to have a concussion history (p = 0.010), premorbid mood disorders (p = 0.002), other psychiatric illness (p = 0.039), or significant life stressors (p = 0.036). Other factors that increased the likelihood of PCS development were a family history of mood disorders, other psychiatric illness, and migraine. Development of PCS was not predicted by race, insurance status, body mass index, sport, helmet use, medication use, and type of symptom endorsement. A final logistic regression analysis of candidate variables showed PCS to be predicted by a history of concussion (OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.1-2.8, p = 0.016), preinjury mood disorders (OR 17.9, 95% CI 2.9-113.0, p = 0.002), family history of mood disorders (OR 3.1, 95% CI 1.1-8.5, p = 0.026), and delayed symptom onset (OR 20.7, 95% CI 3.2-132.0, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS In this age- and sex-matched case-control study of risk factors for PCS among youth with SRC, risk for development of PCS was higher in those with a personal and/or family history of mood disorders, other psychiatric illness, and migraine. These findings highlight the unique nature of SRC in youth. For this population, providers must recognize the value of establishing the baseline health and psychiatric status of children and their primary caregivers with regard to symptom reporting and recovery expectations. In addition, delayed symptom onset was an unexpected but strong risk factor for PCS in this cohort. Delayed symptoms could potentially result in late removal from play, rest, and care by qualified health care professionals. Taken together, these results may help practitioners identify young athletes with concussion who are at a greater danger for PCS and inform larger prospective studies for validation of risk factors from this cohort.

  14. The role of family and personal psychiatric history in postconcussion syndrome following sport-related concussion: a story of compounding risk.

    PubMed

    Legarreta, Andrew D; Brett, Benjamin L; Solomon, Gary S; Zuckerman, Scott L

    2018-06-01

    OBJECTIVE Sport-related concussion (SRC) has become a major public health concern. Prolonged recovery after SRC, named postconcussion syndrome (PCS), has been associated with several biopsychosocial factors, yet the role of both family and personal psychiatric histories requires investigation. In a cohort of concussed high school athletes, the authors examined the role(s) of family and personal psychiatric histories in the risk of developing PCS. METHODS A retrospective cohort study of 154 high school athletes with complete documentation of postconcussion symptom resolution or persistence at 6 weeks was conducted. PCS was defined as 3 or more symptoms present 6 weeks after SRC. Three groups were defined: 1) positive family psychiatric history and personal psychiatric history (FPH/PPH), 2) positive FPH only, and 3) negative family and personal psychiatric histories (controls). Three bivariate regression analyses were conducted: FPH/PPH to controls, FPH only to controls, and FPH/PPH to FPH. Post hoc bivariate regression analyses examined specific FPH pathologies and PCS. RESULTS Athletes with FPH/PPH compared with controls had an increased risk of PCS (χ 2 = 8.90, p = 0.018; OR 5.06, 95% CI 1.71-14.99). Athletes with FPH only compared with controls also had an increased risk of PCS (χ 2 = 6.04, p = 0.03; OR 2.52, 95% CI 1.20-5.30). Comparing athletes with FPH/PPH to athletes with FPH only, no added PCS risk was noted (χ 2 = 1.64, p = 0.247; OR 2.01, 95% CI 0.68-5.94). Among various FPH diagnoses, anxiety (χ 2 = 7.48, p = 0.021; OR 2.99, 95% CI 1.36-6.49) and bipolar disorder (χ 2 = 5.13, p = 0.036; OR 2.74, 95% CI 1.14-6.67) were significantly associated with the presence of PCS. CONCLUSIONS Concussed high school athletes with FPH/PPH were greater than 5 times more likely to develop PCS than controls. Athletes with only FPH were over 2.5 times more likely to develop PCS than controls. Those with an FPH of anxiety or bipolar disorder are specifically at increased risk of PCS. These results suggest that not only are athletes with FPH/PPH at risk for slower recovery after SRC, but those with an FPH only-especially anxiety or bipolar disorder-may also be at risk. Overall, this study supports taking a detailed FPH and PPH in the management of SRC.

  15. Detecting signals of detrimental prescribing cascades from social media.

    PubMed

    Hoang, Tao; Liu, Jixue; Pratt, Nicole; Zheng, Vincent W; Chang, Kevin C; Roughead, Elizabeth; Li, Jiuyong

    2016-07-01

    Prescribing cascade (PC) occurs when an adverse drug reaction (ADR) is misinterpreted as a new medical condition, leading to further prescriptions for treatment. Additional prescriptions, however, may worsen the existing condition or introduce additional adverse effects (AEs). Timely detection and prevention of detrimental PCs is essential as drug AEs are among the leading causes of hospitalization and deaths. Identifying detrimental PCs would enable warnings and contraindications to be disseminated and assist the detection of unknown drug AEs. Nonetheless, the detection is difficult and has been limited to case reports or case assessment using administrative health claims data. Social media is a promising source for detecting signals of detrimental PCs due to the public availability of many discussions regarding treatments and drug AEs. In this paper, we investigate the feasibility of detecting detrimental PCs from social media. The detection, however, is challenging due to the data uncertainty and data rarity in social media. We propose a framework to mine sequences of drugs and AEs that signal detrimental PCs, taking into account the data uncertainty and data rarity. We conduct experiments on two real-world datasets collected from Twitter and Patient health forum. Our framework achieves encouraging results in the validation against known detrimental PCs (F1=78% for Twitter and 68% for Patient) and the detection of unknown potential detrimental PCs (Precision@50=72% and NDCG@50=95% for Twitter, Precision@50=86% and NDCG@50=98% for Patient). In addition, the framework is efficient and scalable to large datasets. Our study demonstrates the feasibility of generating hypotheses of detrimental PCs from social media to reduce pharmacists' guesswork. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  16. Prediction of solar activity from solar background magnetic field variations in cycles 21-23

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

    Shepherd, Simon J.; Zharkov, Sergei I.; Zharkova, Valentina V., E-mail: s.j.shepherd@brad.ac.uk, E-mail: s.zharkov@hull.ac.uk, E-mail: valentina.zharkova@northumbria.ac.uk

    2014-11-01

    A comprehensive spectral analysis of both the solar background magnetic field (SBMF) in cycles 21-23 and the sunspot magnetic field in cycle 23 reported in our recent paper showed the presence of two principal components (PCs) of SBMF having opposite polarity, e.g., originating in the northern and southern hemispheres, respectively. Over a duration of one solar cycle, both waves are found to travel with an increasing phase shift toward the northern hemisphere in odd cycles 21 and 23 and to the southern hemisphere in even cycle 22. These waves were linked to solar dynamo waves assumed to form in differentmore » layers of the solar interior. In this paper, for the first time, the PCs of SBMF in cycles 21-23 are analyzed with the symbolic regression technique using Hamiltonian principles, allowing us to uncover the underlying mathematical laws governing these complex waves in the SBMF presented by PCs and to extrapolate these PCs to cycles 24-26. The PCs predicted for cycle 24 very closely fit (with an accuracy better than 98%) the PCs derived from the SBMF observations in this cycle. This approach also predicts a strong reduction of the SBMF in cycles 25 and 26 and, thus, a reduction of the resulting solar activity. This decrease is accompanied by an increasing phase shift between the two predicted PCs (magnetic waves) in cycle 25 leading to their full separation into the opposite hemispheres in cycle 26. The variations of the modulus summary of the two PCs in SBMF reveals a remarkable resemblance to the average number of sunspots in cycles 21-24 and to predictions of reduced sunspot numbers compared to cycle 24: 80% in cycle 25 and 40% in cycle 26.« less

  17. Procyanidin and catechin contents and antioxidant capacity of cocoa and chocolate products.

    PubMed

    Gu, Liwei; House, Suzanne E; Wu, Xianli; Ou, Boxin; Prior, Ronald L

    2006-05-31

    Cocoa and chocolate products from major brands were analyzed blind for total antioxidant capacity (AOC) (lipophilic and hydrophilic ORAC(FL)), catechins, and procyanidins (monomer through polymers). Accuracy of analyses was ascertained by comparing analyses on a NIST standard reference chocolate with NIST certified values. Procyanidin (PC) content was related to the nonfat cocoa solid (NFCS) content. The natural cocoa powders (average 87% of NFCS) contained the highest levels of AOC (826 +/- 103 micromol of TE/g) and PCs (40.8 +/- 8.3 mg/g). Alkalized cocoa (Dutched powders, average 80% NFCS) contained lower AOC (402 +/- 6 micromol of TE /g) and PCs (8.9 +/- 2.7 mg/g). Unsweetened chocolates or chocolate liquor (50% NFCS) contained 496 +/- 40 micromol of TE /g of AOC and 22.3 +/- 2.9 mg/g of PCs. Milk chocolates, which contain the least amount of NFCS (7.1%), had the lowest concentrations of AOC (80 +/- 10 micromol of TE /g) and PCs (2.7 +/- 0.5 mg/g). One serving of cocoa (5 g) or chocolate (15 or 40 g, depending upon the type of chocolate) provides 2000-9100 micromol of TE of AOC and 45-517 mg of PCs, amounts that exceed the amount in a serving of the majority of foods consumed in America. The monomers through trimers, which are thought to be directly bioavailable, contributed 30% of the total PCs in chocolates. Hydrophilic antioxidant capacity contributed >90% of AOC in all products. The correlation coefficient between AOC and PCs in chocolates was 0.92, suggesting that PCs are the dominant antioxidants in cocoa and chocolates. These results indicate that NFCS is correlated with AOC and PC in cocoa and chocolate products. Alkalizing dramatically decreased both the procyanidin content and antioxidant capacity, although not to the same extent.

  18. Potential Occupant Injury Reduction in Pre-Crash System Equipped Vehicles in the Striking Vehicle of Rear-end Crashes.

    PubMed

    Kusano, Kristofer D; Gabler, Hampton C

    2010-01-01

    To mitigate the severity of rear-end and other collisions, Pre-Crash Systems (PCS) are being developed. These active safety systems utilize radar and/or video cameras to determine when a frontal crash, such as a front-to-back rear-end collisions, is imminent and can brake autonomously, even with no driver input. Of these PCS features, the effects of autonomous pre-crash braking are estimated. To estimate the maximum potential for injury reduction due to autonomous pre-crash braking in the striking vehicle of rear-end crashes, a methodology is presented for determining 1) the reduction in vehicle crash change in velocity (ΔV) due to PCS braking and 2) the number of injuries that could be prevented due to the reduction in collision severity. Injury reduction was only performed for belted drivers, as unbelted drivers have an unknown risk of being thrown out of position. The study was based on 1,406 rear-end striking vehicles from NASS / CDS years 1993 to 2008. PCS parameters were selected from realistic values and varied to examine the effect on system performance. PCS braking authority was varied from 0.5 G's to 0.8 G's while time to collision (TTC) was held at 0.45 seconds. TTC was then varied from 0.3 second to 0.6 seconds while braking authority was held constant at 0.6 G's. A constant braking pulse (step function) and ramp-up braking pulse were used. The study found that automated PCS braking could reduce the crash ΔV in rear-end striking vehicles by an average of 12% - 50% and avoid 0% - 14% of collisions, depending on PCS parameters. Autonomous PCS braking could potentially reduce the number of injured drivers who are belted by 19% to 57%.

  19. Assessing the information in the Summaries of Product Characteristics for the use of medicines in pregnancy and lactation

    PubMed Central

    Arguello, Blanca; Salgado, Teresa M; Fernandez-Llimos, Fernando

    2015-01-01

    Aims To assess the completeness and applicability of information for the use of medicines in pregnancy and lactation contained in European Summaries of Product Characteristics (SmPCs). Methods SmPCs available on the EMA website in April 2011 were retrieved, and information on the use of medicines during pregnancy and lactation was analyzed. A form was designed to extract information regarding drug concentrations crossing the placenta, excretion of the drug in milk, the existence of pre-clinical and clinical studies and clinical experience describing the use of the medicine in pregnancy and lactation, medicine effects on human fertility, medicines use in women of child-bearing potential and specific recommendations for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. SmPCs were classified as containing ‘conclusive’ or ‘ambiguous’ information depending on whether (or not) they provided clear instructions regarding medicine use in pregnancy and lactation. Results Of the 534 SmPCs, 89.3% did not mention whether the drug crossed the placenta, 67.6% indicated that there was no clinical experience during pregnancy and in 61.4% it was unknown whether the medicine was excreted in human milk. Recommendations for medicine use during pregnancy and breastfeeding were ambiguous in 57.0% and 16.5% of the SmPCs, respectively, and medicine use was restricted in over 90% SmPCs for both pregnancy and breastfeeding, despite no information supporting these restrictions being reported. The time elapsed since a SmPCs first approval was not associated with an increase in information quality. Conclusions Important information deficits on the use of medicines during pregnancy and breastfeeding were found in European SmPCs. PMID:25224071

  20. Assessing the information in the Summaries of Product Characteristics for the use of medicines in pregnancy and lactation.

    PubMed

    Arguello, Blanca; Salgado, Teresa M; Fernandez-Llimos, Fernando

    2015-03-01

    To assess the completeness and applicability of information for the use of medicines in pregnancy and lactation contained in European Summaries of Product Characteristics (SmPCs). SmPCs available on the EMA website in April 2011 were retrieved, and information on the use of medicines during pregnancy and lactation was analyzed. A form was designed to extract information regarding drug concentrations crossing the placenta, excretion of the drug in milk, the existence of pre-clinical and clinical studies and clinical experience describing the use of the medicine in pregnancy and lactation, medicine effects on human fertility, medicines use in women of child-bearing potential and specific recommendations for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. SmPCs were classified as containing 'conclusive' or 'ambiguous' information depending on whether (or not) they provided clear instructions regarding medicine use in pregnancy and lactation. Of the 534 SmPCs, 89.3% did not mention whether the drug crossed the placenta, 67.6% indicated that there was no clinical experience during pregnancy and in 61.4% it was unknown whether the medicine was excreted in human milk. Recommendations for medicine use during pregnancy and breastfeeding were ambiguous in 57.0% and 16.5% of the SmPCs, respectively, and medicine use was restricted in over 90% SmPCs for both pregnancy and breastfeeding, despite no information supporting these restrictions being reported. The time elapsed since a SmPCs first approval was not associated with an increase in information quality. Important information deficits on the use of medicines during pregnancy and breastfeeding were found in European SmPCs. © 2014 The British Pharmacological Society.

  1. Laparoscopy to Predict the Result of Primary Cytoreductive Surgery in Patients With Advanced Ovarian Cancer: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

    PubMed

    Rutten, Marianne J; van Meurs, Hannah S; van de Vrie, Roelien; Gaarenstroom, Katja N; Naaktgeboren, Christiana A; van Gorp, Toon; Ter Brugge, Henk G; Hofhuis, Ward; Schreuder, Henk W R; Arts, Henriette J G; Zusterzeel, Petra L M; Pijnenborg, Johanna M A; van Haaften, Maarten; Fons, Guus; Engelen, Mirjam J A; Boss, Erik A; Vos, M Caroline; Gerestein, Kees G; Schutter, Eltjo M J; Opmeer, Brent C; Spijkerboer, Anje M; Bossuyt, Patrick M M; Mol, Ben Willem; Kenter, Gemma G; Buist, Marrije R

    2017-02-20

    Purpose To investigate whether initial diagnostic laparoscopy can prevent futile primary cytoreductive surgery (PCS) by identifying patients with advanced-stage ovarian cancer in whom > 1 cm of residual disease will be left after PCS. Patients and Methods This multicenter, randomized controlled trial was undertaken within eight gynecologic cancer centers in the Netherlands. Patients with suspected advanced-stage ovarian cancer who qualified for PCS were eligible. Participating patients were randomly assigned to either laparoscopy or PCS. Laparoscopy was used to guide selection of primary treatment: either primary surgery or neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by interval surgery. The primary outcome was futile laparotomy, defined as a PCS with residual disease of > 1 cm. Primary analyses were performed according to the intention-to-treat principle. Results Between May 2011 and February 2015, 201 participants were included, of whom 102 were assigned to diagnostic laparoscopy and 99 to primary surgery. In the laparoscopy group, 63 (62%) of 102 patients underwent PCS versus 93 (94%) of 99 patients in the primary surgery group. Futile laparotomy occurred in 10 (10%) of 102 patients in the laparoscopy group versus 39 (39%) of 99 patients in the primary surgery group (relative risk, 0.25; 95% CI, 0.13 to 0.47; P < .001). In the laparoscopy group, three (3%) of 102 patients underwent both primary and interval surgery compared with 28 (28%) of 99 patients in the primary surgery group ( P < .001). Conclusion Diagnostic laparoscopy reduced the number of futile laparotomies in patients with suspected advanced-stage ovarian cancer. In women with a plan for PCS, these data suggest that performance of diagnostic laparoscopy first is reasonable and that if cytoreduction to < 1 cm of residual disease seems feasible, to proceed with PCS.

  2. Principal components - Petrology and chemistry of polyphase units in chondritic porous interplanetary dust particles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rietmeijer, Frans J. M.

    1997-03-01

    Chondritic porous (CP) interplanetary dust particles (IDPs) can be described as 'cosmic sediments'. It should be possible to recognize in these IDPs the 4500 Myrs old solar nebula dusts. The studies of unaltered chondritic IDPs show that their matrices are a mixture of three different principal components (PCs) that also describe variable C/Si ratios of chondritic IDPs. Among others, PCs include polyphase units (PUs) that are amorphous to holocrystalline, both ultrafine- and coarse-grained, ferromagnesiosilica(te) materials with minor Al and Ca. The properties of PCs and their alteration products define the physical and chemical processes that produced and altered these components. PCs are also cornerstones of IDP classification. For example, the bulk composition of ultrafine-grained PCs can be reconstructed using the 'butterfly method' and also allows an evaluation of the metamorphic signatures, (e.g., dynamic pyrometamorphism), in chondritic IDPs.

  3. Three-dimensional function photonic crystals

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Hai-Feng

    2017-11-01

    In this paper, the properties of the photonic band gaps (PBGs) of three-dimensional (3D) function photonic crystals (PCs) are theoretically investigated by a modified plane wave expansion (PWE) method, whose equations for computations are deduced. The configuration of 3D function PCs is the dielectric spheres inserted in the air background with simple-cubic (SC) lattices whose dielectric constants are the functions of space coordinates, which can be realized by the electro-optical or optical Kerr effect in the practice. The influences of the parameter for 3D function PCs on the PBGs also are discussed. The calculated results show that the bandwidths and number of PBGs can be tuned with different distributions of function dielectrics. Compared with the conventional 3D dielectric PCs with SC lattices, the larger and more PBGs can be obtained in the 3D function PCs. Those results provide a new way to design the novel practical devices.

  4. Effect of ZrO2 Powders on the Pyrolysis of Polycarbosilanes Coating Under Laser Ablation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cheng, Han; Chen, Zhaofeng; Tao, Jie; Yan, Bo; Li, Cong; Wang, Liangbing; Zhang, Ying; Fang, Dan; Wan, Shuicheng; Wu, Wangping

    Aircrafts hold the outstanding mastery of the sky in modern wars, however the laser beam weapons can carry out laser attacking to aircrafts. The purpose of the present paper is to research on a new type laser protective material. Polycarbosilanes (PCS)/divinylbenzene mixtures containing ZrO2 powders were brushed to the surface of the aluminum alloy plates and then cured at 150°C for 6 h. The PCS-coated plates were ablated by laser for 3 s. The phase identification of as-ablated powders was examined by X-ray diffraction. The results indicated that the as-ablated powders of cured PCS were composed of major phase β-SiC and smaller amounts of free carbon. The PCS composite coating played a certain role of laser ablation resistance. The effect of added ZrO2 powders on the pyrolysis of PCS-coating under laser ablation is conspicuous.

  5. MHD simulation of plasma compression experiments

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Reynolds, Meritt; Barsky, Sandra; de Vietien, Peter

    2017-10-01

    General Fusion (GF) is working to build a magnetized target fusion (MTF) power plant based on compression of magnetically-confined plasma by liquid metal. GF is testing this compression concept by collapsing solid aluminum liners onto plasmas formed by coaxial helicity injection in a series of experiments called PCS (Plasma Compression, Small). We simulate the PCS experiments using the finite-volume MHD code VAC. The single-fluid plasma model includes temperature-dependent resistivity and anisotropic heat transport. The time-dependent curvilinear mesh for MHD simulation is derived from LS-DYNA simulations of actual field tests of liner implosion. We will discuss how 3D simulations reproduced instability observed in the PCS13 experiment and correctly predicted stabilization of PCS14 by ramping the shaft current during compression. We will also present a comparison of simulated Mirnov and x-ray diagnostics with experimental measurements indicating that PCS14 compressed well to a linear compression ratio of 2.5:1.

  6. Microparticle and mitochondrial release during extended storage of different types of platelet concentrates.

    PubMed

    Marcoux, Geneviève; Duchez, Anne-Claire; Rousseau, Matthieu; Lévesque, Tania; Boudreau, Luc H; Thibault, Louis; Boilard, Eric

    2017-05-01

    On activation, platelets release vesicles called microparticles (MPs). MPs are heterogeneous with regard to the presence or absence of mitochondria. We quantified MPs in platelet concentrates (PCs) taking their mitochondrial content into account. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP), buffy coat (BC) and apheresis (AP) PCs were tested through 7 days of storage. A combination of flow cytometry and spanning-tree progression analysis of density-normalized events (SPADE) was used to determine MP and mitochondrial release during storage. All the PC biochemical parameters complied with transfusion standards at all times. Platelet activation markers increased during storage and were higher for PRP than other types of PCs. Concentrations of MPs and extracellular mitochondria interpreted by SPADE algorithm were significantly higher in PRP than other in PCs and were stable throughout storage. The mode of preparation, rather than storage duration, impacts the release of MPs and mitochondria in PCs.

  7. Monitoring long-term effects of mild traumatic brain injury with magnetic resonance spectroscopy: a pilot study.

    PubMed

    Dean, Philip J A; Otaduy, Maria C G; Harris, Lisa M; McNamara, Adam; Seiss, Ellen; Sterr, Annette

    2013-08-21

    This pilot study explores the metabolic changes associated with persistent postconcussion syndrome (PCS) after mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI; >12 months after injury) using magnetic resonance spectroscopy. We hypothesized that those mTBI participants with PCS will have larger metabolic differences than those without. Data were collected from mTBI participants with PCS, mTBI participants without PCS and non-head-injured participants (all groups: n=8). Magnetic resonance spectroscopy metabolite profiles within the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex showed a reduced creatine/choline ratio in mTBI patients compared with control participants. This data provides initial evidence for residual metabolic changes in chronic mTBI patients, but there was no conclusive relationship between these metabolic changes and PCS symptom report. Creatine is involved in maintaining energy levels in cells with high or fluctuating energy demand, suggesting that there may be some residual energy impairment in chronic mTBI.

  8. Synergistic induction of astrocytic differentiation by factors secreted from meninges in the mouse developing brain.

    PubMed

    Kawamura, Yoichiro; Katada, Sayako; Noguchi, Hirofumi; Yamamoto, Hiroyuki; Sanosaka, Tsukasa; Iihara, Koji; Nakashima, Kinichi

    2017-11-01

    Astrocytes, which support diverse neuronal functions, are generated from multipotent neural stem/precursor cells (NS/PCs) during brain development. Although many astrocyte-inducing factors have been identified and studied in vitro, the regions and/or cells that produce these factors in the developing brain remain elusive. Here, we show that meninges-produced factors induce astrocytic differentiation of NS/PCs. Consistent with the timing when astrocytic differentiation of NS/PCs increases, expression of astrocyte-inducing factors is upregulated. Meningeal secretion-mimicking combinatorial treatment of NS/PCs with bone morphogenetic protein 4, retinoic acid and leukemia inhibitory factor synergistically activate the promoter of a typical astrocytic marker, glial fibrillary acidic protein. Taken together, our data suggest that meninges play an important role in astrocytic differentiation of NS/PCs in the developing brain. © 2017 Federation of European Biochemical Societies.

  9. Use of Tablet PCs to Enhance Instruction and Promote Group Collaboration in a Course to Prepare Future Mathematics Specialists

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ellington, Aimee J.; Wilson, Jill H.; Nugent, Jeffrey S.

    2011-01-01

    This article details the use of tablet PCs in a mathematics content course for future Mathematics Specialists. Instructors used tablet PCs instead of a traditional whiteboard to capture demonstration and discussion. Students were grouped for collaborative problem solving and exploration exercises. Each group was provided with a tablet PC for…

  10. PCS: a pallet costing system for wood pallet manufacturers (version 1.0 for Windows®)

    Treesearch

    A. Jefferson, Jr. Palmer; Cynthia D. West; Bruce G. Hansen; Marshall S. White; Hal L. Mitchell

    2002-01-01

    The Pallet Costing System (PCS) is a computer-based, Microsoft Windows® application that computes the total and per-unit cost of manufacturing an order of wood pallets. Information about the manufacturing facility, along with the pallet-order requirements provided by the customer, is used in determining production cost. The major cost factors addressed by PCS...

  11. Evidence of non-classical (squeezed) light in biological systems

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Popp, F. A.; Chang, J. J.; Herzog, A.; Yan, Z.; Yan, Y.

    2002-01-01

    By use of coincidence measurements on “ultraweak” photon emission, the photocount statistics (PCS) of artificial visible light turns out to follow-as expected-super-Poissonian PCS. Biophotons, originating from spontaneous or light-induced living systems, display super-Poissonian, Poissonian and even sub-Poissonian PCS. This result shows the first time evidence of non-classical (squeezed) light in living tissues.

  12. Active Rehabilitation of Concussion and Post-concussion Syndrome.

    PubMed

    Leddy, John J; Baker, John G; Willer, Barry

    2016-05-01

    Concussion is a physiological brain injury with physical, cognitive, and emotional sequelae. The macrophysiological insult to the brain affects the autonomic nervous system and its control of cerebral blood flow. Most patients recover within 2 weeks, but some do not. Persistence of symptoms beyond the generally accepted time frame for recovery is called post-concussion syndrome (PCS). PCS is not a single entity; it is a group of disorders that requires specific forms of therapy. Rest has been the mainstay of the treatment for concussion and PCS. This article discusses the rationale for the active treatment of concussion and PCS. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. Religiousness and prostate cancer screening in African American men.

    PubMed

    Abernethy, Alexis D; Houston, Tina R; Bjorck, Jeffrey P; Gorsuch, Richard L; Arnold, Harold L

    2009-01-01

    This study was designed to examine the relationship between religiousness (organized, nonorganized, and intrinsic) and religious problem solving (collaborative, deferring, and self-directing) in prostate cancer screening (PCS) attitudes and behavior. Men (N = 481) of African descent between the ages of 40 and 70 participated. Hierarchical regression analyses revealed that religiousness and self-directed problem solving were associated with PCS attitudes. Intrinsic religiousness was associated with PCS attitudes after controlling for health and organized religiousness. Religiousness was not associated with PCS behavior. Intrinsic religiousness may be an important dimension of religiousness to be considered in tailoring cancer interventions for individuals from faith-based communities.

  14. Rice Bran Amendment Suppresses Potato Common Scab by Increasing Antagonistic Bacterial Community Levels in the Rhizosphere.

    PubMed

    Tomihama, Tsuyoshi; Nishi, Yatsuka; Mori, Kiyofumi; Shirao, Tsukasa; Iida, Toshiya; Uzuhashi, Shihomi; Ohkuma, Moriya; Ikeda, Seishi

    2016-07-01

    Potato common scab (PCS), caused by pathogenic Streptomyces spp., is a serious disease in potato production worldwide. Cultural practices, such as optimizing the soil pH and irrigation, are recommended but it is often difficult to establish stable disease reductions using these methods. Traditionally, local farmers in southwest Japan have amended soils with rice bran (RB) to suppress PCS. However, the scientific mechanism underlying disease suppression by RB has not been elucidated. The present study showed that RB amendment reduced PCS by repressing the pathogenic Streptomyces population in young tubers. Amplicon sequencing analyses of 16S ribosomal RNA genes from the rhizosphere microbiome revealed that RB amendment dramatically changed bacterial composition and led to an increase in the relative abundance of gram-positive bacteria such as Streptomyces spp., and this was negatively correlated with PCS disease severity. Most actinomycete isolates derived from the RB-amended soil showed antagonistic activity against pathogenic Streptomyces scabiei and S. turgidiscabies on R2A medium. Some of the Streptomyces isolates suppressed PCS when they were inoculated onto potato plants in a field experiment. These results suggest that RB amendment increases the levels of antagonistic bacteria against PCS pathogens in the potato rhizosphere.

  15. Design and rationale for NOURISH-T: a randomized control trial targeting parents of overweight children off cancer treatment.

    PubMed

    Stern, Marilyn; Ewing, Lin; Davila, Esther; Thompson, Amanda L; Hale, Gregory; Mazzeo, Suzanne

    2015-03-01

    Approximately 40% of off-treatment pediatric cancer survivors (PCS) are overweight or obese, which increases their risk for negative long-term physical health complications. Consistent with the Institute of Medicine's (IOM) emphasis on patients transitioning from treatment to cancer survivorship and increasing long-term healthy behaviors in these survivors, we plan to conduct a pilot RCT to address the increasing overweight/obesity rates among PCS by targeting their caregivers as agents for PCS behavior change. We plan to focus on parents' behaviors, attitudes and roles in promoting healthier eating and physical activity (PA) in PCS and adapt an evidence-informed, manualized parent intervention - NOURISH - found to be effective for parents of overweight and obese children and adolescents in reducing child and adolescent BMI. We plan to adapt NOURISH for caregivers of 5-12 year old PCS (6 months-4 years off active cancer treatment). Our pilot feasibility RCT - NOURISH-T (Nourishing Our Understanding of Role modeling to Improve Support for Healthy Transitions) evaluates: 1) the preliminary efficacy of NOURISH-T for PCS, compared with an Enhanced Usual Care (EUC) control condition, and 2) factors to consider to improve future adaptations of the intervention. The project will enroll caregivers of PCS at two pediatric oncology clinics into the 6-week intervention (or EUC) with assessments occurring pre- and post-6 weeks of intervention, and at a 4-month follow-up. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  16. High-frequency (13.56-MHz) and ultrahigh-frequency (915-MHz) radio identification systems do not affect platelet activation and functions.

    PubMed

    Rogowska, Anna; Chabowska, Anna Małgorzata; Lipska, Alina; Boczkowska-Radziwon, Barbara; Bujno, Magdalena; Rusak, Tomasz; Dziemianczuk, Mateusz; Radziwon, Piotr

    2016-05-01

    In radiofrequency identification (RFID) systems used in labeling of blood components, blood cells are subjected to the direct influence of electromagnetic waves throughout the storage period. The aim of this study was to prove the safety of storage of platelet concentrates (PCs) in containers labeled with RFID tags. Ten pooled PCs obtained from 12 buffy coats each suspended in additive solution were divided into three separate containers that were assigned to three groups: control, PCs labeled with ultrahigh frequency (UHF) range tags and exposed to 915-MHz radio waves, and PCs labeled with high-frequency (HF) range tags and exposed to 13.56-MHz radio waves. PCs were stored at 20 to 24°C for 7 days. In vitro tests of platelet (PLT) function were performed on the first, fifth, and seventh days of storage. There were no significant differences in pH; hypotonic shock resistance; surface expression of CD62P, CD42a, or CD63; release of PLT-derived microparticles; PLT aggregation; and number of PLTs between PCs stored at a constant exposure to radio waves of two different frequencies and the control group on the first, fifth, and seventh days of storage. The results of the study indicate no impact of electromagnetic radiation generated in HF and UHF RFID systems and constant contact with the tags on the quality of stored PCs. © 2016 AABB.

  17. Learner-centred mathematics and statistics education using netbook tablet PCs

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Loch, Birgit; Galligan, Linda; Hobohm, Carola; McDonald, Christine

    2011-10-01

    Tablet technology has been shown to support learner-centred mathematics education when this technology is available to both the lecturer and the students. However, cost is often the barrier to students' use of tablet PCs for their university studies. This article argues that more affordable netbook PCs with tablet capabilities can be viable alternatives to full-sized tablet PCs to enhance active and collaborative learning in mathematics and statistics. For a whole teaching semester, netbook tablet PCs were given to volunteer students from two different cohorts. Students were enrolled in nursing mathematics or introductory statistics in non-mathematics majors at an Australian university. The aims were to gauge the suitability of this technology and to identify what active and collaborative learning emerged in these first-year classes. While the netbook tablet PCs were actively promoted in their tutorials, of additional interest was students' use of the technology for any aspect of their studies both inside and outside the classroom. The outcome of this study was to inform a university decision to provide inexpensive tablet technology to larger cohorts of students. The results highlight different approaches required in the mathematics and statistics classes to achieve collaborative and active learning facilitated through the technology. Environmental variables such as the tutor, student, learning space, availability of other technologies and subject content had an impact on the nature of learning. While learner-centred education can be facilitated by inexpensive netbook tablet PCs, we caution that the savings may come at the expense of computing power.

  18. Np95/Uhrf1 regulates tumor suppressor gene expression of neural stem/precursor cells, contributing to neurogenesis in the adult mouse brain.

    PubMed

    Murao, Naoya; Matsubara, Shuzo; Matsuda, Taito; Noguchi, Hirofumi; Mutoh, Tetsuji; Mutoh, Masahiro; Koseki, Haruhiko; Namihira, Masakazu; Nakashima, Kinichi

    2018-05-31

    Adult neurogenesis is a process of generating new neurons from neural stem/precursor cells (NS/PCs) in restricted adult brain regions throughout life. It is now generally known that adult neurogenesis in the hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG) and subventricular zone participates in various higher brain functions, such as learning and memory formation, olfactory discrimination and repair after brain injury. However, the mechanisms underlying adult neurogenesis remain to be fully understood. Here, we show that Nuclear protein 95 KDa (Np95, also known as UHRF1 or ICBP90), which is an essential protein for maintaining DNA methylation during cell division, is involved in multiple processes of adult neurogenesis. Specific ablation of Np95 in adult NS/PCs (aNS/PCs) led to a decrease in their proliferation and an impairment of neuronal differentiation and to suppression of neuronal maturation associated with the impairment of dendritic formation in the hippocampal DG. We also found that deficiency of Np95 in NS/PCs increased the expression of tumor suppressor genes p16 and p53, and confirmed that expression of these genes in NS/PCs recapitulates the phenotype of Np95-deficient NS/PCs. Taken together, our findings suggest that Np95 plays an essential role in proliferation and differentiation of aNS/PCs through the regulation of tumor suppressor gene expression in adult neurogenesis. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. and Japan Neuroscience Society. All rights reserved.

  19. Secondary immunization generates clonally related antigen-specific plasma cells and memory B cells.

    PubMed

    Frölich, Daniela; Giesecke, Claudia; Mei, Henrik E; Reiter, Karin; Daridon, Capucine; Lipsky, Peter E; Dörner, Thomas

    2010-09-01

    Rechallenge with T cell-dependent Ags induces memory B cells to re-enter germinal centers (GCs) and undergo further expansion and differentiation into plasma cells (PCs) and secondary memory B cells. It is currently not known whether the expanded population of memory B cells and PCs generated in secondary GCs are clonally related, nor has the extent of proliferation and somatic hypermutation of their precursors been delineated. In this study, after secondary tetanus toxoid (TT) immunization, TT-specific PCs increased 17- to 80-fold on days 6-7, whereas TT-specific memory B cells peaked (delayed) on day 14 with a 2- to 22-fold increase. Molecular analyses of V(H)DJ(H) rearrangements of individual cells revealed no major differences of gene usage and CDR3 length between TT-specific PCs and memory B cells, and both contained extensive evidence of somatic hypermutation with a pattern consistent with GC reactions. This analysis identified clonally related TT-specific memory B cells and PCs. Within clusters of clonally related cells, sequences shared a number of mutations but also could contain additional base pair changes. The data indicate that although following secondary immunization PCs can derive from memory B cells without further somatic hypermutation, in some circumstances, likely within GC reactions, asymmetric mutation can occur. These results suggest that after the fate decision to differentiate into secondary memory B cells or PCs, some committed precursors continue to proliferate and mutate their V(H) genes.

  20. Proteome changes in platelets after pathogen inactivation--an interlaboratory consensus.

    PubMed

    Prudent, Michel; D'Alessandro, Angelo; Cazenave, Jean-Pierre; Devine, Dana V; Gachet, Christian; Greinacher, Andreas; Lion, Niels; Schubert, Peter; Steil, Leif; Thiele, Thomas; Tissot, Jean-Daniel; Völker, Uwe; Zolla, Lello

    2014-04-01

    Pathogen inactivation (PI) of platelet concentrates (PCs) reduces the proliferation/replication of a large range of bacteria, viruses, and parasites as well as residual leucocytes. Pathogen-inactivated PCs were evaluated in various clinical trials showing their efficacy and safety. Today, there is some debate over the hemostatic activity of treated PCs as the overall survival of PI platelets seems to be somewhat reduced, and in vitro measurements have identified some alterations in platelet function. Although the specific lesions resulting from PI of PCs are still not fully understood, proteomic studies have revealed potential damages at the protein level. This review merges the key findings of the proteomic analyses of PCs treated by the Mirasol Pathogen Reduction Technology, the Intercept Blood System, and the Theraflex UV-C system, respectively, and discusses the potential impact on the biological functions of platelets. The complementarities of the applied proteomic approaches allow the coverage of a wide range of proteins and provide a comprehensive overview of PI-mediated protein damage. It emerges that there is a relatively weak impact of PI on the overall proteome of platelets. However, some data show that the different PI treatments lead to an acceleration of platelet storage lesions, which is in agreement with the current model of platelet storage lesion in pathogen-inactivated PCs. Overall, the impact of the PI treatment on the proteome appears to be different among the PI systems. Mirasol impacts adhesion and platelet shape change, whereas Intercept seems to impact proteins of intracellular platelet activation pathways. Theraflex influences platelet shape change and aggregation, but the data reported to date are limited. This information provides the basis to understand the impact of different PI on the molecular mechanisms of platelet function. Moreover, these data may serve as basis for future developments of PI technologies for PCs. Further studies should address the impact of both the PI and the storage duration on platelets in PCs because PI may enable the extension of the shelf life of PCs by reducing the bacterial contamination risk. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  1. Diversity and Inclusion in Plastic Surgery Education: A National Survey by the American Council of Academic Plastic Surgeons

    PubMed Central

    Obeid, Sara; Fanning, Alex

    2017-01-01

    Introduction: To date, there have been few studies in the field of plastic surgery examining the knowledge, attitudes, and behavior of educators and residents regarding diversity and inclusion, especially for the purposes of enhancing resident education, improving diversity efforts, and addressing health care disparities. Methods: An anonymous survey was provided electronically to a total of 462 American Council of Academic Plastic Surgeon members and 91 program coordinators (PCs), and 1,029 plastic surgery residents at 91 institutions across the United States. We analyzed the responses from PCs and program directors (PDs). Results: We collected responses from 34 institutions (37%), and 16.8% of American Council of Academic Plastic Surgeon members including 34 PCs and 44 PDs. We found that PDs were more likely to be male (86%) and above the age of 40 years (97%) compared with PCs (5% male and 61% above 40 years). Both groups were majority White. Fifty-nine percentage of PDs have a parent/guardian who attained a graduate degree versus 15% of PCs. Forty-eight percentage of PDs speak another language compared with 16% of PCs. More importantly, 95% of PDs had an opportunity to engage in diversity and inclusion-related activities in the last 6 months as compared with 43% of PCs; however, we did not find a statistical difference based on knowledge of increasing institutional capacity of diversity and inclusion between the 2 groups. PCs were more likely to witness discrimination (64%) than PDs (40%) in the health care setting, with body type/weight emerging as the most common type of discrimination. Very few respondents (10%) indicated they discriminated against others. Conclusions: Plastic surgery educators are committed to diversity and inclusion. Improvements can be made by incorporating PCs more frequently in activities related to the topic along with focused training on improving diversity on an institutional rather than individual level. Our study suggests body type/weight is the most common type of discrimination witnessed by the entire cohort and that diversity and inclusion remains a sensitive topic.

  2. Fully automated processing of buffy-coat-derived pooled platelet concentrates.

    PubMed

    Janetzko, Karin; Klüter, Harald; van Waeg, Geert; Eichler, Hermann

    2004-07-01

    The OrbiSac device, which was developed to automate the manufacture of buffy-coat PLT concentrates (BC-PCs), was evaluated. In-vitro characteristics of BC-PC preparations using the OrbiSac device were compared with manually prepared BC-PCs. For standard processing (Std-PC, n = 20), four BC-PCs were pooled using 300 mL of PLT AS (PAS) followed by soft-spin centrifugation and WBC filtration. The OrbiSac preparation (OS-PC, n = 20) was performed by automated pooling of four BC-PCs with 300 mL PAS followed by centrifugation and inline WBC filtration. All PCs were stored at 22 degrees C. Samples were withdrawn on Day 1, 5, and 7 evaluating PTL count, blood gas analysis, glucose, lactate, LDH, beta-thromboglobulin, hypotonic shock response, and CD62p expression. A PLT content of 3.1 +/- 0.4 x 10(11) (OS-PCs) versus 2.7 +/- 0.5 x 10(11) (Std-PCs, p < 0.05) was found. A CV of 19 percent (Std-PC) versus 14 percent (OS-PC) suggests more standardization in the OS group. At Day 7, the Std-PCs versus OS-PCs showed a glucose consumption of 1.03 +/- 0.32 micro mol per 10(9) PLT versus 0.75 +/- 0.25 micro mol per 10(9) PLT (p < 0.001), and a lactate production of 1.50 +/- 0.86 micro mol per 10(9) versus 1.11 +/- 0.61 micro mol per 10(9) (p < 0.001). The pH (7.00 +/- 0.19 vs. 7.23 +/- 0.06; p < 0.001), pO(2) (45.3 +/- 18 vs. 31.3 +/- 10.4 mmHg; p < 0.01), and HCO(3) levels (4.91 +/- 1.49 vs. 7.14 +/- 0.95 mmol/L; p < 0.001) suggest a slightly better aerobic metabolism within the OS group. Only small differences in CD62p expression was observed (37.3 +/- 12.9% Std-PC vs. 44.8 +/- 6.6% OS-PC; p < 0.05). The OrbiSac device allows an improved PLT yield without affecting PLT in-vitro characteristics and may enable an improved consistency in product volume and yield.

  3. Premorbid IQ Predicts Postconcussive Symptoms in OEF/OIF/OND Veterans with mTBI.

    PubMed

    Stewart-Willis, Jada J; Heyanka, Daniel; Proctor-Weber, Zoe; England, Heather; Bruhns, Maya

    2018-03-01

    Extant literature has demonstrated that symptoms of postconcussive syndrome (PCS) persist well beyond the expected 3-month post-injury recovery period in a minority of individuals with mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). Suboptimal performance on validity measures and pre- and post-injury psychosocial stressors - rather than actual mTBI or current cognitive functioning - have been identified as predictors of chronic PCS. Whether premorbid IQ has any influence on chronic PCS has been understudied, in the context of established psychogenic etiologies. The sample included 31 veterans, who underwent mTBI neuropsychological evaluations six or more months post-injury in a VA outpatient neuropsychology clinic. A two-step multiple linear regression was conducted to examine the effects on the outcome variable, PCS (Neurobehavioral Symptom Inventory), of the following predictors: cognitive functioning (Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status; Attention, Immediate Memory, and Delayed Memory Indices), performance validity, depression (Beck Depression Inventory-Second Edition), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD Checklist, Civilian Version), quality of sleep (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index), pain (Brief Pain Inventory), education, and Premorbid IQ (Wechsler Test of Adult Reading). The overall regression model containing all nine predictor variables was statistically significant. Depression (p < .05) and premorbid IQ (p < .05) were the most salient predictors of chronic PCS; in that lower premorbid IQ and greater endorsed symptoms of depression were associated with higher PCS scores. In Step 2 of the multiple linear regression, the WTAR explained an additional 6.7% of the variance in PCS after controlling for psychosocial stressors and current cognitive ability. The findings support premorbid IQ as a unique and relevant predictor of chronic PCS, with significance variance accounted for beyond education, cognitive functioning, and psychosocial variables. Given the predictive relationship between premorbid IQ and PCS, adapting postconcussive interventions to meet the specific needs of individuals with varying levels of intellect may be important in minimizing ongoing symptomatology. Published by Oxford University Press 2017. This work is written by (a) US Government employee(s) and is in the public domain in the US.

  4. Biodegradability of pharmaceutical compounds in agricultural soils irrigated with treated wastewater.

    PubMed

    Grossberger, Amnon; Hadar, Yitzhak; Borch, Thomas; Chefetz, Benny

    2014-02-01

    Pharmaceutical compounds (PCs) are introduced into agricultural soils via irrigation with treated wastewater (TWW). Our data show that carbamazepine, lamotrigine, caffeine, metoprolol, sulfamethoxazole and sildenafil are persistent in soils when introduced via TWW. However, other PCs, namely diclofenac, ibuprofen, bezafibrate, gemfibrozil and naproxen were not detected in soils when introduced via TWW. This is likely due to rapid degradation as confirmed in our microcosm studies where they exhibited half-lives (t1/2) between 0.2-9.5 days when soils were spiked at 50 ng/g soil and between 3 and 68 days when soils were spiked at 5000 ng/g soil. The degradation rate and extent of PCs observed in microcosm studies were similar in soils that had been previously irrigated with TWW or fresh water. This suggests that pre-exposure of the soils to PCs via irrigation with TWW does not enhance their biodegradation. This suggests that PCs are probably degraded in soils via co-metabolism. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  5. Exploring the use of tablet PCs in veterinary medical education: opportunity or obstacle?

    PubMed

    Wang, Hong; Rush, Bonnie R; Wilkerson, Melinda; van der Merwe, Deon

    2014-01-01

    A tablet PC is a laptop computer with a touch screen and a digital pen or stylus that can be used for handwritten notes and drawings. The use of tablet PCs has been investigated in many disciplines such as engineering, mathematics, science, and education. The purpose of this article is to explore student and faculty attitudes toward and experiences with tablet PCs 6 years after the implementation of a tablet PC program in the College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) at Kansas State University (K-State). This study reports that the use of tablet PCs has enhanced students' learning experiences through learner-interface interaction, learner-content interaction, learner-instructor interaction, and learner-learner interaction. This study also identifies digital distraction as the major negative experience with tablet PCs during class time. The tablet PC program provides CVM faculty the potential to pursue technology integration strategies that support expected learning outcomes and provides students the potential to develop self-monitoring and self-discipline skills that support learning with digital technologies.

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

    Afzal, Muhammad U., E-mail: muhammad.afzal@mq.edu.au; Esselle, Karu P.

    This paper presents a quasi-analytical technique to design a continuous, all-dielectric phase correcting structures (PCSs) for circularly polarized Fabry-Perot resonator antennas (FPRAs). The PCS has been realized by varying the thickness of a rotationally symmetric dielectric block placed above the antenna. A global analytical expression is derived for the PCS thickness profile, which is required to achieve nearly uniform phase distribution at the output of the PCS, despite the non-uniform phase distribution at its input. An alternative piecewise technique based on spline interpolation is also explored to design a PCS. It is shown from both far- and near-field results thatmore » a PCS tremendously improves the radiation performance of the FPRA. These improvements include an increase in peak directivity from 22 to 120 (from 13.4 dBic to 20.8 dBic) and a decrease of 3 dB beamwidth from 41.5° to 15°. The phase-corrected antenna also has a good directivity bandwidth of 1.3 GHz, which is 11% of the center frequency.« less

  7. Tissue Distribution Of Chloroaluminium Sulfonated Phthalocyanine In Dogs

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    M. M.; H. C.; Newman

    1989-06-01

    Chloroaluminum sulfonated phthalocyanine (A1PCS) was administered intravenously to clinically normal dogs, and A1PCS levels were determined in tissues using a sensitive assay. A1PCS accumulated to high levels in liver, spleen, bone marrow, kidney, and lung. These tissue levels confirm previous determinations in mice and rats. Only a small amount of dye was retained in skin and very small amounts in muscle and brain. A1PCS was cleared from the blood within 24 h, and excreted primarily by urine. Serum clearance was faster in males than in females. There were also significant tissue distribution differences between the genders, particularly during the first 12 h. The low levels of A1PCS in skin suggest that cutaneous photosensitivity and toxic skin reactions using this photosensitizer in photodynamic therapy of cancer may be eliminated. The difference in tissue distribution between genders is not only intriguing, but indicates that the optimal time window for treatment of various tissue sites may vary by gender.

  8. [Protective effect of polysaccharides extracts from corn silk against cyclophosphamide induced host damages in mice bearing H22 tumors].

    PubMed

    Wu, Xian-chuang; Du, Gang-jun; Song, Xiao-yong; Zhang, Yong-zhou; Liu, Yu-xin

    2014-10-01

    To study the protective effect of polysaccharides from corn silk (PCS) against cyclophosphamide (CTX) induced host damages in mice bearing H22 tumors. The ascitic and solid tumor bearing mice model were established to investigate the anti-tumor effects of different dose of PCS (100, 200 and 300 mg/kg). The effects of PCS alone and with combination of CTX on tumor weight, survival time, thymus and spleen index, white blood cell, nucleated cell of marrow, serum ALT and AST level were tested. The high-dose PCS (300 mg/kg) had significant inhibitory effects on tumor. After combination with CTX, the tumor inhibitory ratio was enhanced to 68.71%, the survival time of tumor-burdened ascites tumor mice was significantly prolonged to 72.07% compared with CTX group. The Q value of combination group was 0.997. Thymus and spleen index, white blood cell, nucleated cell of marrow decreased by CTX were ameliorated significantly. The level of ALT and AST increased by CTX were reduced by combination with PCS. PCS has a potent inhibitory effect on the growth of implanted H22 tumors in mice and has a synergetic effect and an attenuated toxic effect in combination with CTX.

  9. Treatment of dextran sodium sulfate-induced experimental colitis by adoptive transfer of peritoneal cells

    PubMed Central

    Liu, Ting; Ren, Jun; Wang, Wei; Wei, Xia-wei; Shen, Guo-bo; Liu, Yan-tong; Luo, Min; Xu, Guang-chao; Shao, Bin; Deng, Sen-yi; He, Zhi-yao; Liang, Xiao; Liu, Yu; Wen, Yan-Zhu; Xiang, Rong; Yang, Li; Deng, Hong-xin; Wei, Yu-quan

    2015-01-01

    The adoptive transfer of the natural regulatory B cells and macrophages should be a useful treatment for inflammation and autoimmune disease. However, it is usually difficult to isolate these cells from the tissues and expand them. Here, we investigated the feasibility of adoptively transferring peritoneal cells (PCs) as a treatment for DSS-induced colitis. We found that peritoneal cavity can provide an easily accessible site for harvesting enough number of PCs, namely, two-dose PCs for the treatment from a mouse in one operation. Adoptive therapy of these cells from healthy mice or those with disease is effectively in reducing the disease activity score. The natural B cells and macrophages of the infused PCs can selectively migrate to lesion sites and regulate the expression of Stat3, NF−κB, Smad3 and Smad7. Additionally, PCs exert dual activity of IL-10 and TGF-β secreted spontaneously by both peritoneal B cells and macrophages, which in turn enhance the induction of regulatory B cells and Macrophages in microenvironment of inflammation. Moreover, PCs can re-establish immunological tolerance in the OVA-immunized mice. Thus, our findings provide a new strategy for colitis therapy and could be of importance in additional exploration of other inflammation and autoimmune diseases therapy. PMID:26565726

  10. Poplar maintains zinc homeostasis with heavy metal genes HMA4 and PCS1

    PubMed Central

    Adams, Joshua P.; Adeli, Ardeshir; Hsu, Chuan-Yu; Harkess, Richard L.; Page, Grier P.; dePamphilis, Claude W.; Schultz, Emily B.; Yuceer, Cetin

    2011-01-01

    Perennial woody species, such as poplar (Populus spp.) must acquire necessary heavy metals like zinc (Zn) while avoiding potential toxicity. Poplar contains genes with sequence homology to genes HMA4 and PCS1 from other species which are involved in heavy metal regulation. While basic genomic conservation exists, poplar does not have a hyperaccumulating phenotype. Poplar has a common indicator phenotype in which heavy metal accumulation is proportional to environmental concentrations but excesses are prevented. Phenotype is partly affected by regulation of HMA4 and PCS1 transcriptional abundance. Wild-type poplar down-regulates several transcripts in its Zn-interacting pathway at high Zn levels. Also, overexpressed PtHMA4 and PtPCS1 genes result in varying Zn phenotypes in poplar; specifically, there is a doubling of Zn accumulation in leaf tissues in an overexpressed PtPCS1 line. The genomic complement and regulation of poplar highlighted in this study supports a role of HMA4 and PCS1 in Zn regulation dictating its phenotype. These genes can be altered in poplar to change its interaction with Zn. However, other poplar genes in the surrounding pathway may maintain the phenotype by inhibiting drastic changes in heavy metal accumulation with a single gene transformation. PMID:21504875

  11. Cardiac Arrhythmia and Injury Induced in Rats by Burst and Pulsed Mode Ultrasound with Gas Body Contrast Agent

    PubMed Central

    Miller, Douglas L.; Dou, Chunyan; Lucchesi, Benedict R.

    2009-01-01

    Objective Premature complexes (PCs) in the electrocardiogram (ECG) signal have been reported for myocardial contrast echocardiography and also for burst mode (physical therapy) ultrasound with gas body contrast agent at lower peak rarefactional pressure amplitudes (PRPAs). For contrast echocardiography, irreversibly injured cardiomyocytes have been associated with the arrhythmia. The objective was to determine if cardiomyocyte injury is associated with the PCs induced by the burst mode at lower PRPAs. Methods Anesthetized rats were exposed to focused 1.5 MHz ultrasound in a water bath. Evans blue dye was injected IP to stain injured cardiomyocytes and Definity ultrasound contrast agent was infused IV. Continuous burst mode simulated physical therapy ultrasound. Intermittent 2 ms bursts, or envelopes of pulses simulating diagnostic ultrasound, were triggered 1:4 at end systole. PCs were observed on ECG recordings and stained cardiomyocytes were counted in frozen sections. Results The continuous burst mode produced variable PCs and stained cells above 0.3 MPa PRPA. The triggered bursts above 0.3 MPa and pulse envelopes above 1.2 MPa produced statistically significant (P<0.01) PCs and stained cardiomyocytes. Conclusion Irreversible cardiomyocyte injury was associated with the development of PCs for burst mode and occurred at substantially lower PRPAs than for pulsed ultrasound. PMID:19854967

  12. Role of cytosolic calcium diffusion in cardiac purkinje cells.

    PubMed

    Limbu, Bijay; Shah, Kushal; Deo, Makarand

    2016-08-01

    The Cardiac Purkinje cells (PCs) exhibit distinct calcium (Ca2+) homeostasis than that in ventricular myocytes (VMs). Due to lack of t-tubules in PCs, the Ca2+ ions entering the cell have to diffuse through the cytoplasm to reach the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) before triggering Ca2+-induced-Ca2+-release (CICR). In recent experimental studies PCs have been shown to be more susceptible to action potential (AP) abnormalities than the VMs, however the exact mechanisms are poorly understood. In this study, we utilize morphologically realistic detailed biophysical mathematical model of a murine PC to systematically examine the role intracellular Ca2+ diffusion in the APs of PCs. A biphasic spatiotemporal Ca2+ diffusion process, as observed experimentally, was implemented in the model which includes radial Ca2+ wavelets and cell wide longitudinal Ca2+ diffusion wave (CWW). The AP morphology, specifically plateau, is affected due to changes in intracellular Ca2+ dynamics. When Ca2+ concentration in sarcolemmal region is elevated, it activated inward sodium Ca2+ exchanger (NCX) current resulting into prolongation of the plateau at faster diffusion rates. Our results demonstrate that the cytosolic Ca2+ diffusion waves play a significant role in shaping APs of PCs and could provide mechanistic insights into the increased arrhythmogeneity of PCs.

  13. The Development and Psychometric Validation of an Arabic-Language Version of the Pain Catastrophizing Scale

    PubMed Central

    Fares, Souha

    2017-01-01

    Context. The Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS) is the most widely used measure of pain-specific catastrophizing. Objectives. The purpose of the present study was to develop and psychometrically evaluate an Arabic-language version of the PCS. Methods. In Study 1, 150 adult chronic nonmalignant pain patients seeking treatment at a hospital setting completed the PCS-A and a number of self-report measures assessing clinical parameters of pain, symptoms of depression, and quality of life. Study 2 employed a cold pressor pain task to examine the PCS-A in a sample of 44 healthy university students. Results. Exploratory factor analyses suggested a two-factor structure. Confirmatory factor analysis comparing the 2-factor model, Sullivan's original 3-factor model, and a 1-factor model based on the total score all provided adequate fit to the data. Cronbach's alpha coefficients across all models met or exceeded accepted standards of reliability. Catastrophizing was associated with higher levels of depression and increased pain intensity and interference. Catastrophizing predicted decreased quality of life, even after controlling for the contribution of gender, employment, depression, and pain interference. PCS-A scores were positively correlated with heightened experimental pain severity and decreased pain tolerance. Conclusion. The present results provide strong support for the psychometric properties of the PCS-A. PMID:28190958

  14. Bioinspired Polymeric Photonic Crystals for High Cycling pH-Sensing Performance.

    PubMed

    Fei, Xiang; Lu, Tao; Ma, Jun; Wang, Wanlin; Zhu, Shenmin; Zhang, Di

    2016-10-12

    Artificial photonic crystals (PCs) have been extensively studied to improve the sensing performance of poly(acrylic acid) (PAAc), as it can transform the PAAc volume change into optical signal which is easier to read. Nevertheless, these PCs are limited by the monostructure. We herein developed new photonic crystals (PCs) by coating acrylic acid and acrylamide (AAm) via in situ copolymerization onto Papilio paris wings having hierarchical, lamellar structure. Our PCs exhibited high performance of color tunability to environmental pH, as detected by reflectance spectra and visual observation. The introduction of AAm into the system created covalent bonding which robustly bridged the polymer with the wings, leading to an accurate yet broad variation of reflection wavelength to gauge environmental pH. The reflection wavelength can be tailored by the refractive index of the lamellar interspacing due to the swelling/deswelling of the polymer. The mechanism is not only supported by experimenta but proved by finite-difference time-domain simulation. Moreover, It is worth noting that the covalent bonding has provided the PCs-based pH sensor with high cycling performance, implying great potential in practical applications. The simple fabrication process is applicable to the development of a wide variety of stimuli-responsive PCs taking advantage of other polymers.

  15. Structural Engineering of Nanoporous Anodic Alumina Photonic Crystals by Sawtooth-like Pulse Anodization.

    PubMed

    Law, Cheryl Suwen; Santos, Abel; Nemati, Mahdieh; Losic, Dusan

    2016-06-01

    This study presents a sawtooth-like pulse anodization approach aiming to create a new type of photonic crystal structure based on nanoporous anodic alumina. This nanofabrication approach enables the engineering of the effective medium of nanoporous anodic alumina in a sawtooth-like manner with precision. The manipulation of various anodization parameters such as anodization period, anodization amplitude, number of anodization pulses, ramp ratio and pore widening time allows a precise control and fine-tuning of the optical properties (i.e., characteristic transmission peaks and interferometric colors) exhibited by nanoporous anodic alumina photonic crystals (NAA-PCs). The effect of these anodization parameters on the photonic properties of NAA-PCs is systematically evaluated for the establishment of a fabrication methodology toward NAA-PCs with tunable optical properties. The effective medium of the resulting NAA-PCs is demonstrated to be optimal for the development of optical sensing platforms in combination with reflectometric interference spectroscopy (RIfS). This application is demonstrated by monitoring in real-time the formation of monolayers of thiol molecules (11-mercaptoundecanoic acid) on the surface of gold-coated NAA-PCs. The obtained results reveal that the adsorption mechanism between thiol molecules and gold-coated NAA-PCs follows a Langmuir isotherm model, indicating a monolayer sorption mechanism.

  16. Calbindin-D28k is a more reliable marker of human Purkinje cells than standard Nissl stains: a stereological experiment.

    PubMed

    Whitney, Elizabeth R; Kemper, Thomas L; Rosene, Douglas L; Bauman, Margaret L; Blatt, Gene J

    2008-02-15

    In a study of human Purkinje cell (PC) number, a striking mismatch between the number of PCs observed with the Nissl stain and the number of PCs immunopositive for calbindin-D28k (CB) was identified in 2 of the 10 brains examined. In the remaining eight brains this mismatch was not observed. Further, in these eight brains, analysis of CB immunostained sections counterstained with the Nissl stain revealed that more than 99% Nissl stained PCs were also immunopositive for CB. In contrast, in the two discordant brains, only 10-20% of CB immunopositive PCs were also identified with the Nissl stain. Although this finding was unexpected, a historical survey of the literature revealed that Spielmeyer [Spielmeyer W. Histopathologie des nervensystems. Julius Springer: Berlin; 1922. p. 56-79] described human cases with PCs that lacked the expected Nissl staining intensity, an important historical finding and critical issue when studying postmortem human brains. The reason for this failure in Nissl staining is not entirely clear, but it may result from premortem circumstances since it is not accounted for by postmortem delay or processing variables. Regardless of the exact cause, these observations suggest that Nissl staining may not be a reliable marker for PCs and that CB is an excellent alternative marker.

  17. Hepatocyte transplants improve liver function and encephalopathy in portacaval shunted rats.

    PubMed

    Fogel, Wieslawa Agnieszka; Stasiak, Anna; Maksymowicz, Michał; Kobos, Jozef; Unzeta, Mercedes; Mussur, Miroslaw

    2014-07-01

    Rats with portacaval shunt (PCS) are useful experimental models of human hepatic encephalopathy in chronic liver dysfunction. We have previously shown that PCS modifies amine neurotransmitter systems in the CNS and increases voluntary alcohol intake by rats. Hepatocyte transplantation, used in acute liver failure, has recently also been applied to chronic liver diseases, which prompted us to investigate whether the altered brain amine system and the drinking behavior in long-term shunted rats could be normalized by hepatocyte transplants. Hepatocytes, isolated from syngeneic donors by collagenase digestion, were injected (3 × 10(6) cells/rat) into the pancreatic tail region, 6 months after PCS. Hepatic function was evaluated by measuring urine urea and plasma L-histidine concentrations. A free choice test with two bottles (tap water and 10% ethyl alcohol) was performed for 3 days to assess the rats' preference for alcohol. The rats were euthanized 2 months posttransplantation. Brain histamine and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) levels were measured by radioenzymatic assay and by HPLC-EC, respectively, N-tele-methylhistamine by GC/MS while MAOA and MAOB activities by isotopic procedures. Portacaval shunt rats with hepatocyte transplants gave more urea than before transplantation, with lower plasma L-His levels and higher body weight versus the PCS counterparts. Also, those rats consumed less alcohol. The CNS amines and 5-HIAA concentrations, as well as MAO-B activity, being abnormally high in untreated PCS rats, significantly reduced after PCS hepatocyte treatment. The results support the therapeutic values of hepatocyte transplants in chronic liver diseases and the temporary character of PCS-exerted CNS dysfunctions. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  18. Systematic Regional Variations in Purkinje Cell Spiking Patterns

    PubMed Central

    Xiao, Jianqiang; Cerminara, Nadia L.; Kotsurovskyy, Yuriy; Aoki, Hanako; Burroughs, Amelia; Wise, Andrew K.; Luo, Yuanjun; Marshall, Sarah P.; Sugihara, Izumi; Apps, Richard; Lang, Eric J.

    2014-01-01

    In contrast to the uniform anatomy of the cerebellar cortex, molecular and physiological studies indicate that significant differences exist between cortical regions, suggesting that the spiking activity of Purkinje cells (PCs) in different regions could also show distinct characteristics. To investigate this possibility we obtained extracellular recordings from PCs in different zebrin bands in crus IIa and vermis lobules VIII and IX in anesthetized rats in order to compare PC firing characteristics between zebrin positive (Z+) and negative (Z−) bands. In addition, we analyzed recordings from PCs in the A2 and C1 zones of several lobules in the posterior lobe, which largely contain Z+ and Z− PCs, respectively. In both datasets significant differences in simple spike (SS) activity were observed between cortical regions. Specifically, Z− and C1 PCs had higher SS firing rates than Z+ and A2 PCs, respectively. The irregularity of SS firing (as assessed by measures of interspike interval distribution) was greater in Z+ bands in both absolute and relative terms. The results regarding systematic variations in complex spike (CS) activity were less consistent, suggesting that while real differences can exist, they may be sensitive to other factors than the cortical location of the PC. However, differences in the interactions between SSs and CSs, including the post-CS pause in SSs and post-pause modulation of SSs, were also consistently observed between bands. Similar, though less strong trends were observed in the zonal recordings. These systematic variations in spontaneous firing characteristics of PCs between zebrin bands in vivo, raises the possibility that fundamental differences in information encoding exist between cerebellar cortical regions. PMID:25144311

  19. JAK/STAT autocontrol of ligand-producing cell number through apoptosis.

    PubMed

    Borensztejn, Antoine; Boissoneau, Elisabeth; Fernandez, Guillaume; Agnès, François; Pret, Anne-Marie

    2013-01-01

    During development, specific cells are eliminated by apoptosis to ensure that the correct number of cells is integrated in a given tissue or structure. How the apoptosis machinery is activated selectively in vivo in the context of a developing tissue is still poorly understood. In the Drosophila ovary, specialised follicle cells [polar cells (PCs)] are produced in excess during early oogenesis and reduced by apoptosis to exactly two cells per follicle extremity. PCs act as an organising centre during follicle maturation as they are the only source of the JAK/STAT pathway ligand Unpaired (Upd), the morphogen activity of which instructs distinct follicle cell fates. Here we show that reduction of Upd levels leads to prolonged survival of supernumerary PCs, downregulation of the pro-apoptotic factor Hid, upregulation of the anti-apoptotic factor Diap1 and inhibition of caspase activity. Upd-mediated activation of the JAK/STAT pathway occurs in PCs themselves, as well as in adjacent terminal follicle and interfollicular stalk cells, and inhibition of JAK/STAT signalling in any one of these cell populations protects PCs from apoptosis. Thus, a Stat-dependent unidentified relay signal is necessary for inducing supernumerary PC death. Finally, blocking apoptosis of PCs leads to specification of excess adjacent border cells via excessive Upd signalling. Our results therefore show that Upd and JAK/STAT signalling induce apoptosis of supernumerary PCs to control the size of the PC organising centre and thereby produce appropriate levels of Upd. This is the first example linking this highly conserved signalling pathway with developmental apoptosis in Drosophila.

  20. Does pelvicaliceal system anatomy affect success of percutaneous nephrolithotomy?

    PubMed

    Binbay, Murat; Akman, Tolga; Ozgor, Faruk; Yazici, Ozgur; Sari, Erhan; Erbin, Akif; Kezer, Cem; Sarilar, Omer; Berberoglu, Yalcın; Muslumanoglu, Ahmet Yaser

    2011-10-01

    To investigate the effect of the pelvicaliceal system (PCS) anatomy on the percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) success rate. Although the caliceal anatomy is effective for stone clearance after shock wave lithotripsy and retrograde intrarenal lithotripsy, the effect of the caliceal anatomy after PCNL has not been evaluated to date. A total of 498 patients who had undergone PCNL and preoperative intravenous urography were enrolled in our study. Kidney-related anatomic factors, such as the PCS surface area and type, degree of hydronephrosis, infundibulopelvic angle, upper-lower calix angle, infundibular length, and infundibular width were calculated using intravenous urography. The association between the PCNL success rate and kidney-related anatomic factors was retrospectively analyzed using chi-square tests, Fisher's exact test, Mann-Whitney U test, and forward stepwise regression analysis. A success rate of 78.1% was achieved. No difference was seen the success rates among the PCS types. The mean PCS surface area was 20.1 ± 9.7 cm(2) in patients with successful outcomes and 24.5 ± 10.2 cm(2) in patients with remaining stones (P = .001). The mean infundibulopelvic angle, upper-lower calix angle, infundibular length, and infundibular width were similar in both groups. Multivariate binary logistic regression analysis showed that stone configuration and PCS surface area were independent factors affecting the PCNL success rates. The results of our study have shown that the PCS surface area is the only anatomic factor that affects the PCNL success rate and patients with a PCS surface area <20.5 cm(2) have greater PCNL success. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  1. Comparative outcomes of femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery and manual phacoemusification: a six-month follow-up.

    PubMed

    Yu, Yinhui; Chen, Xinyi; Hua, Huixia; Wu, Menghan; Lai, Kairan; Yao, Ke

    2016-08-01

    To explore efficacy and safety outcomes in patients undergoing femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) versus manual phacoemulsification cataract surgery (PCS). Prospective consecutive nonrandomized comparative cohort study. A total of 124 eyes from 106 patients (70 in FLACS and 54 in PCS). Comparison of FLACS with PCS over 6 months. Macular central subfield thickness (CST), cube volume (CV), cube average thickness (CAT), endothelial cell density (ECD), central corneal thickness (CCT) and photon count value (PCV). CST, CV and CAT increased postoperatively, which did not return to preoperative levels by 6 months. The values were similar between groups throughout the follow-up, and comparison of changes from baseline also showed no significant difference. Preoperative ECD showed significant difference, which decreased postoperatively and remained stable during follow-up, being lowest at 1 month. FLACS had greater endothelial cell loss than PCS, which was not significant. CCT in both groups increased, reaching maximum on day one and tended to decrease thereafter. No significant differences were found regarding postoperative values and the mean increase. In both groups, mean PCV increased from preoperatively to day one, week one and month one. Flare values in FLACS were lower than PCS, reaching statistical significance at 6 months (P = 0.001). However, the differences in changes of PCV were not significantly different at any visit. Both FLACS and PCS achieved similar safety and efficacy outcomes for performing cataract surgery. Flare values in eyes with FLACS were lower than those with PCS at 6 months postoperatively. © 2015 Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists.

  2. Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation Improves the Quality of Life Measured with a Short Form-36 Questionnaire in Atrial Fibrillation Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

    PubMed Central

    Choi, Jong-Il; Kim, Young-Hoon

    2016-01-01

    Background The main purpose of performing radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients is to improve the quality of life (QoL) and alleviate AF-related symptoms. We aimed to determine the qualitative and quantitative effects of RFCA on the QoL in AF patients. Methods We performed a systemic review and meta-analysis using a random effects model. We searched for the studies that reported the physical component summary score (PCS) and mental component summary score (MCS) of the short form-36, a validated system to assess and quantify the QoL, before and after RFCA in AF patients. PCS and MCS are T-scores with a mean of 50 and standard deviation of 10. Results Of the 470 studies identified through systematic search, we included 13 studies for pre-RFCA vs. the post-RFCA analysis and 5 studies for treatment success vs. AF recurrence analyses. In the pre-RFCA vs. post-RFCA analysis, RFCA was associated with a significant increase in both the PCS (weighted mean difference [WMD] = 6.33 [4.81–7.84]; p < 0.001) and MCS (WMD = 7.80 [6.15–9.44]; p < 0.001). The ΔPCS (post-RFCA PCS–pre-RFCA PCS) and ΔMCS values were used for the treatment success vs. AF recurrence analysis. Patients with successful ablation had a higher ΔPCS (WMD = 7.46 [4.44–10.49]; p < 0.001) and ΔMCS (WMD = 7.59 [4.94–10.24]; p < 0.001). Conclusions RFCA is associated with a significant increase in the PCS and MCS in AF patients. Patients without AF recurrence after RFCA had a better improvement in the PCS and MCS than patients who had AF recurrence. PMID:27681507

  3. Warthin-like papillary thyroid carcinoma with immunoglobulin G4-positive plasma cells possibly related to Hashimoto's thyroiditis.

    PubMed

    Hirokawa, Mitsuyoshi; Nishihara, Eijun; Takada, Nami; Higuchi, Miyoko; Kotakemori, Masumi; Hayashi, Toshitetsu; Miyauchi, Akira

    2018-02-26

    Hashimoto's thyroiditis with heavy lymphoplasmacytic infiltration is a common comorbidity of immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4)-related thyroiditis and Warthin-like papillary thyroid carcinoma (WL-PTC). We hypothesized that WL-PTC may have a strong association with IgG4-related thyroiditis. To validate this hypothesis, we clinically and immunohistochemically studied 17 WL-PTC cases. Fourteen patients (82.4%) had anti-thyroglobulin antibody and were confirmed to have Hashimoto's thyroiditis through microscopic analysis. Among them, five (29.4%) had disease consistent with IgG4-related thyroiditis but did not exhibit a "storiform" pattern or obliterative phlebitis. IgG4-related diseases were not found in other organs. No cases with serum IgG4 level of >135 mg/dL were noted. A total of 94.1% of WL-PTC cases had IgG4-positive plasma cells ( + PCs) in the stroma, and cases with rich IgG4 + PCs were more frequently associated with Hashimoto's thyroiditis than those with poor IgG4 + PCs. In this study, all three cases without Hashimoto's thyroiditis had poor IgG4 + PCs, and one of them did not exhibit IgG4 + PCs in the stroma of WL-PTC and Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Nodal metastatic lesions were seen in eight cases, all of which were not WL-PTC. As such, we should consider that the Hashimoto's disease with rich IgG4 + PCs seen in our cases is representative of non-IgG4-related disease and not IgG4-related disease involving multiple organs. This study is the first to demonstrate the presence of IgG4 + PCs in the stroma of WL-PTC. We concluded that the appearance of IgG4 + PCs in the stroma of WL-PTC may be related to Hashimoto's thyroiditis with rich IgG4 + PC.

  4. Acute hypoxia-induced alterations of calbindin-D28k immunoreactivity in cerebellar Purkinje cells of the guinea pig fetus at term.

    PubMed

    Katsetos, C D; Spandou, E; Legido, A; Taylor, M L; Zanelli, S A; de Chadarevian, J P; Christakos, S; Mishra, O P; Delivoria-Papadopoulos, M

    2001-05-01

    Purkinje cells (PCs) are vulnerable to hypoxic/ischemic insults and rich in calcium and calcium-buffering/sequestering systems, including calcium-binding proteins (CaBPs). Calbindin-D28k is an EF-hand CaBP, which is highly expressed in PCs where it acts primarily as a cellular Ca++ buffer. Elevation of [Ca++] in the cytosol and nuclei of PCs is pivotal in hypoxic/ischemic cell death. We hypothesize that hypoxia results in decreased concentration, or availability of calbindin-D28k in PCs, thereby decreasing their buffering capacity and resulting in increase of intracellular and intranuclear [Ca++]. Cerebellar tissues from normoxic fetuses were compared to fetuses obtained from term pregnant guinea pigs exposed to hypoxia [7% FiO2] for 60 min. The pregnant guinea pigs were either killed upon delivery immediately following hypoxia (Hx0h) or were subsequently allowed to recover for 24 h (Hx24h) or 72 h (Hx72h). Fetal brain hypoxia was documented biochemically by a decrease in brain tissue levels of ATP and phosphocreatine. Compared to normoxic fetuses, there is a predominantly somatodendritic loss or decrease of calbindin-D28k immunohistochemical staining in PCs of Hx0h (p < 0.005), Hx24h (p < 0.05), and Hx72h (p < 0.005) fetuses. Hypoxia-induced alterations of calbindin-D28k immunoreactivity are qualitatively similar at all time points and include a distinctive intranuclear localization in subpopulations of PCs. A similar trend is demonstrated by immunoblotting. Subpopulations of TUNEL+/calbindin-D28k- PCs lacking morphologic features of apoptosis or necrosis are demonstrated in Hx24h and Hx72h fetuses. The present study demonstrates an abrogating effect of perinatal hypoxia on calbindin-D28k immunoreactivity in cerebellar PCs. The perturbation of this Ca++ buffer protein in hypoxia-induced neuronal injury may herald delayed cell death or degeneration.

  5. Development and Validation of a Daily Pain Catastrophizing Scale.

    PubMed

    Darnall, Beth D; Sturgeon, John A; Cook, Karon F; Taub, Chloe J; Roy, Anuradha; Burns, John W; Sullivan, Michael; Mackey, Sean C

    2017-09-01

    To date, there is no validated measure for pain catastrophizing at the daily level. The Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS) is widely used to measure trait pain catastrophizing. We sought to develop and validate a brief, daily version of the PCS for use in daily diary studies to facilitate research on mechanisms of catastrophizing treatment, individual differences in self-regulation, and to reveal the nuanced relationships between catastrophizing, correlates, and pain outcomes. After adapting the PCS for daily use, we evaluated the resulting 14 items using 3 rounds of cognitive interviews with 30 adults with chronic pain. We refined and tested the final daily PCS in 3 independent, prospective, cross-sectional, observational validation studies conducted in a combined total of 519 adults with chronic pain who completed online measures daily for 14 consecutive days. For study 1 (N = 131), exploratory factor analysis revealed adequate fit and-unexpectedly-unidimensionality for item responses to the daily PCS. Study 2 (N = 177) correlations indicated adequate association with related constructs (anger, anxiety, pain intensity, depression). Similarly, results for study 3 (N = 211) revealed expected correlations for daily PCS and measures of daily constructs including physical activity, sleep, energy level, and positive affect. Results from complex/multilevel confirmatory factor analysis confirmed good fit to a unidimensional model. Scores on the daily PCS were statistically comparable with and more parsimonious than the full 14-item version. Next steps include evaluation of score validity in populations with medical diagnoses, greater demographic diversity, and in patients with acute pain. This article describes the development and validation of a daily PCS. This daily measure may facilitate research that aims to characterize pain mechanisms, individual differences in self-regulation, adaptation, and nuanced relationships between catastrophizing, correlates, and pain outcomes. Copyright © 2017 American Pain Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  6. Comparative Analysis of Phenolic Compound Characterization and Their Biosynthesis Genes between Two Diverse Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum) Varieties Differing for Chapatti (Unleavened Flat Bread) Quality.

    PubMed

    Sharma, Monica; Sandhir, Rajat; Singh, Anuradha; Kumar, Pankaj; Mishra, Ankita; Jachak, Sanjay; Singh, Sukhvinder P; Singh, Jagdeep; Roy, Joy

    2016-01-01

    Phenolic compounds (PCs) affect the bread quality and can also affect the other types of end-use food products such as chapatti (unleavened flat bread), now globally recognized wheat-based food product. The detailed analysis of PCs and their biosynthesis genes in diverse bread wheat ( Triticum aestivum ) varieties differing for chapatti quality have not been studied. In this study, the identification and quantification of PCs using UPLC-QTOF-MS and/or MS/MS and functional genomics techniques such as microarrays and qRT-PCR of their biosynthesis genes have been studied in a good chapatti variety, "C 306" and a poor chapatti variety, "Sonalika." About 80% (69/87) of plant phenolic compounds were tentatively identified in these varieties. Nine PCs (hinokinin, coutaric acid, fertaric acid, p-coumaroylqunic acid, kaempferide, isorhamnetin, epigallocatechin gallate, methyl isoorientin-2'-O-rhamnoside, and cyanidin-3-rutinoside) were identified only in the good chapatti variety and four PCs (tricin, apigenindin, quercetin-3-O-glucuronide, and myricetin-3-glucoside) in the poor chapatti variety. Therefore, about 20% of the identified PCs are unique to each other and may be "variety or genotype" specific PCs. Fourteen PCs used for quantification showed high variation between the varieties. The microarray data of 44 phenolic compound biosynthesis genes and 17 of them on qRT-PCR showed variation in expression level during seed development and majority of them showed low expression in the good chapatti variety. The expression pattern in the good chapatti variety was largely in agreement with that of phenolic compounds. The level of variation of 12 genes was high between the good and poor chapatti quality varieties and has potential in development of markers. The information generated in this study can be extended onto a larger germplasm set for development of molecular markers using QTL and/or association mapping approaches for their application in wheat breeding.

  7. Comparative Analysis of Phenolic Compound Characterization and Their Biosynthesis Genes between Two Diverse Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum) Varieties Differing for Chapatti (Unleavened Flat Bread) Quality

    PubMed Central

    Sharma, Monica; Sandhir, Rajat; Singh, Anuradha; Kumar, Pankaj; Mishra, Ankita; Jachak, Sanjay; Singh, Sukhvinder P.; Singh, Jagdeep; Roy, Joy

    2016-01-01

    Phenolic compounds (PCs) affect the bread quality and can also affect the other types of end-use food products such as chapatti (unleavened flat bread), now globally recognized wheat-based food product. The detailed analysis of PCs and their biosynthesis genes in diverse bread wheat (Triticum aestivum) varieties differing for chapatti quality have not been studied. In this study, the identification and quantification of PCs using UPLC-QTOF-MS and/or MS/MS and functional genomics techniques such as microarrays and qRT-PCR of their biosynthesis genes have been studied in a good chapatti variety, “C 306” and a poor chapatti variety, “Sonalika.” About 80% (69/87) of plant phenolic compounds were tentatively identified in these varieties. Nine PCs (hinokinin, coutaric acid, fertaric acid, p-coumaroylqunic acid, kaempferide, isorhamnetin, epigallocatechin gallate, methyl isoorientin-2′-O-rhamnoside, and cyanidin-3-rutinoside) were identified only in the good chapatti variety and four PCs (tricin, apigenindin, quercetin-3-O-glucuronide, and myricetin-3-glucoside) in the poor chapatti variety. Therefore, about 20% of the identified PCs are unique to each other and may be “variety or genotype” specific PCs. Fourteen PCs used for quantification showed high variation between the varieties. The microarray data of 44 phenolic compound biosynthesis genes and 17 of them on qRT-PCR showed variation in expression level during seed development and majority of them showed low expression in the good chapatti variety. The expression pattern in the good chapatti variety was largely in agreement with that of phenolic compounds. The level of variation of 12 genes was high between the good and poor chapatti quality varieties and has potential in development of markers. The information generated in this study can be extended onto a larger germplasm set for development of molecular markers using QTL and/or association mapping approaches for their application in wheat breeding. PMID:28018403

  8. Meta-Analysis of the Associations of p-Cresyl Sulfate (PCS) and Indoxyl Sulfate (IS) with Cardiovascular Events and All-Cause Mortality in Patients with Chronic Renal Failure.

    PubMed

    Lin, Cheng-Jui; Wu, Vincent; Wu, Pei-Chen; Wu, Chih-Jen

    2015-01-01

    Indoxyl sulfate (IS) and p-cresyl sulfate (PCS) are protein-bound uremic toxins that increase in the sera of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), and are not effectively removed by dialysis. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to investigate the relationships of PCS and IS with cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality in patients with CKD stage 3 and above. Medline, Cochrane, and EMBASE databases were searched until January 1, 2014 with combinations of the following keywords: chronic renal failure, end-stage kidney disease, uremic toxin, uremic retention, indoxyl sulfate, p-cresyl sulfate. Inclusion criteria were: 1) Patients with stage 1 to 5 CKD; 2) Prospective study; 3) Randomized controlled trial; 4) English language publication. The associations between serum levels of PCS and IS and the risks of all-cause mortality and cardiovascular events were the primary outcome measures. Of 155 articles initially identified, 10 prospective and one cross-sectional study with a total 1,572 patients were included. Free PCS was significantly associated with all-cause mortality among patients with chronic renal failure (pooled OR = 1.16, 95% CI = 1.03 to 1.30, P = 0.013). An elevated free IS level was also significantly associated with increased risk of all-cause mortality (pooled OR = 1.10, 95% CI = 1.03 to 1.17, P = 0.003). An elevated free PCS level was significantly associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events among patients with chronic renal failure (pooled OR = 1.28, 95% CI = 1.10 to 1.50, P = 0.002), while free IS was not significantly associated with risk of cardiovascular events (pooled OR = 1.05, 95% CI = 0.98 to 1.13, P = 0.196). Elevated levels of PCS and IS are associated with increased mortality in patients with CKD, while PCS, but not IS, is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events.

  9. Soluble Factors from Human Olfactory Neural Stem/Progenitor Cells Influence the Fate Decisions of Hippocampal Neural Precursor Cells.

    PubMed

    Gómez-Virgilio, Laura; Ramírez-Rodríguez, Gerardo Bernabé; Sánchez-Torres, Carmen; Ortiz-López, Leonardo; Meraz-Ríos, Marco Antonio

    2018-03-01

    Neurogenesis plays a significant role during adulthood, and the observation that neural stem cells reside in the central nervous system and the olfactory epithelium has attracted attention due to their importance in neuronal regeneration. In addition, soluble factors (SFs) release by neural stem cells may modulate the neurogenic process. Thus, in this study, we identified the SFs released by olfactory human neural stem/progenitor cells (hNS/PCs-OE). These cells express Ki67, nestin, and βIII-tubulin, indicating their neural lineage. The hNS/PCs-OE also express PSD95 and tau proteins during proliferation, but increased levels are observed after differentiation. Thus, we evaluated the effects of SFs from hNS/PCs-OE on the viability, proliferation, and differentiation potential of adult murine hippocampal neural precursor cells (AHPCs). SFs from hNS/PCs-OE maintain cells in the precursor and proliferative stages and mainly promote the astrocytic differentiation of AHPCs. These effects involved the activation, as measured by phosphorylation, of several proteins (Erk1/2; Akt/PRAS40/GSK3β and JAK/STAT) involved in key events of the neurogenic process. Moreover, according to the results from the antibody-based microarray approach, among the soluble factors, hNS/PCs-OE produce interleukin-6 (IL-6) and neurotrophin 4 (NT4). However, residual epidermal growth factor (EGF) was also detected. These proteins partially reproduced the effects of SFs from hNS/PCs-OE on AHPCs, and the mechanism underlying these effects is mediated by Src proteins, which have been implicated in EGF-induced transactivation of TrkB receptor. The results of the present study suggest the potential use of SFs from hNS/PCs-OE in controlling the differentiation potential of AHPCs. Thus, the potential clinical relevance of hNS/PCs-OE is worth pursuing.

  10. Potential Occupant Injury Reduction in Pre-Crash System Equipped Vehicles in the Striking Vehicle of Rear-end Crashes

    PubMed Central

    Kusano, Kristofer D.; Gabler, Hampton C.

    2010-01-01

    To mitigate the severity of rear-end and other collisions, Pre-Crash Systems (PCS) are being developed. These active safety systems utilize radar and/or video cameras to determine when a frontal crash, such as a front-to-back rear-end collisions, is imminent and can brake autonomously, even with no driver input. Of these PCS features, the effects of autonomous pre-crash braking are estimated. To estimate the maximum potential for injury reduction due to autonomous pre-crash braking in the striking vehicle of rear-end crashes, a methodology is presented for determining 1) the reduction in vehicle crash change in velocity (ΔV) due to PCS braking and 2) the number of injuries that could be prevented due to the reduction in collision severity. Injury reduction was only performed for belted drivers, as unbelted drivers have an unknown risk of being thrown out of position. The study was based on 1,406 rear-end striking vehicles from NASS / CDS years 1993 to 2008. PCS parameters were selected from realistic values and varied to examine the effect on system performance. PCS braking authority was varied from 0.5 G’s to 0.8 G’s while time to collision (TTC) was held at 0.45 seconds. TTC was then varied from 0.3 second to 0.6 seconds while braking authority was held constant at 0.6 G’s. A constant braking pulse (step function) and ramp-up braking pulse were used. The study found that automated PCS braking could reduce the crash ΔV in rear-end striking vehicles by an average of 12% – 50% and avoid 0% – 14% of collisions, depending on PCS parameters. Autonomous PCS braking could potentially reduce the number of injured drivers who are belted by 19% to 57%. PMID:21050603

  11. (Anti)estrogenic effects of phytochemicals on human primary mammary fibroblasts, MCF-7 cells and their co-culture

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

    Meeuwen, J.A. van; Korthagen, N.; Jong, P.C. de

    In the public opinion, phytochemicals (PCs) present in the human diet are often considered beneficial (e.g. by preventing breast cancer). Two possible mechanisms that could modulate tumor growth are via interaction with the estrogen receptor (ER) and inhibition of aromatase (CYP19). Multiple in vitro studies confirmed that these compounds act estrogenic, thus potentially induce tumor growth, as well as aromatase inhibitory, thus potentially reduce tumor growth. It is thought that in the in vivo situation breast epithelial (tumor) cells communicate with surrounding connective tissue by means of cytokines, prostaglandins and estradiol forming a complex feedback mechanism. Recently our laboratory developedmore » an in vitro co-culture model of healthy mammary fibroblasts and MCF-7 cells that (at least partly) simulated this feedback mechanism (M. Heneweer et al., TAAP vol. 202(1): 50-58, 2005). In the present study biochanin A, chrysin, naringenin, apigenin, genistein and quercetin were studied for their estrogenic properties (cell proliferation, pS2 mRNA) and aromatase inhibition in MCF-7 breast tumor cells, healthy mammary fibroblasts and their co-culture. The proliferative potency of these compounds in the MCF-7 cells derived from their EC{sub 50}s decreased in the following order: estadiol (4*10{sup -3} nM) > biochanin A (9 nM) > genistein (32 nM) > testosterone (46 nM) > naringenin (287 nM) > apigenin (440 nM) > chrysin (4 {mu}M). The potency to inhibit aromatase derived from their IC{sub 50}s decreased in the following order: chrysin (1.5 {mu}M) > naringenin (2.2 {mu}M) > genistein (3.6 {mu}M) > apigenin (4.1 {mu}M) > biochanin A (25 {mu}M) > quercetin (30 {mu}M). The results of these studies show that these PCs can induce cell proliferation or inhibit aromatase in the same concentration range (1-10 {mu}M). Results from co-cultures did not elucidate the dominant effect of these compounds. MCF-7 cell proliferation occurs at concentrations that are not uncommon in blood of individuals using food supplements. Results also indicate that estrogenicity of these PCs is quantitatively more sensitive than aromatase inhibition. It is suggested that perhaps a more cautionary approach should be taken for these PCs before taken as food supplements.« less

  12. Functional Outcomes of Persons Undergoing Dysvascular Lower Extremity Amputations

    PubMed Central

    Sauter, Carley N.; Pezzin, Liliana E.; Dillingham, Timothy R.

    2012-01-01

    Objective To examine the effect of post-acute rehabilitation setting on functional outcomes among patients undergoing major lower extremity dysvascular amputations. Design A population-based, prospective cohort study conducted in Maryland and Wisconsin. Data collected from medical records and patient interviews conducted during acute hospitalization following amputation and at six-month following the acute care discharge were analyzed using multivariate models and instrumental variable techniques. Results A total of 297 patients were analyzed based on post-acute care rehabilitation setting: acute inpatient rehabilitation (IRF), skilled nursing facility (SNF) or home. The majority (43.4%) received care in IRF, 32% in SNF, and 24.6% at home. On SF-36 subscales, significantly improved outcomes were observed for patients receiving post-acute care at an IRF relative to those cared for at a SNF in physical function (PF), role physical (RF) and physical component score (PCS). Patients receiving post-acute care in IRFs also experienced better RF and PCS outcomes compared to those discharged directly home. In addition, patients receiving post-acute care at an IRF were significantly more likely to score in the top quartile for general health in IRF compared to SNF or home, and less likely to score in the lowest quartile for PF, RF and PCS in IRF compared to SNF. Lower ADL impairment was observed in IRF compared to SNF. Conclusions Among this large and diverse cohort of patients undergoing major dysvascular lower limb amputations, receipt of interdisciplinary rehabilitation services at an IRF yielded improved functional outcomes six months after amputation relative to care received at SNFs or home. PMID:23291599

  13. Laboratory impulsivity and depression in blast-exposed military personnel with post-concussion syndrome.

    PubMed

    Bjork, James M; Burroughs, Thomas K; Franke, Laura M; Pickett, Treven C; Johns, Sade E; Moeller, F Gerard; Walker, William C

    2016-12-30

    In military populations, traumatic brain injury (TBI) also holds potential to increase impulsivity and impair mood regulation due to blast injury effects on ventral frontal cortex - to put military personnel at risk for suicide or substance abuse. We assessed a linkage between depression and impaired behavioral inhibition in 117 blast-exposed service members (SM) and veterans with post-concussion syndrome (PCS), where PCS was defined using a Rivermead Postconcussive Symptom Questionnaire (RPQ) modified to clarify whether each symptom worsened compared to pre-blast. Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression Scale (CES-D) scores, PTSD Checklist 5 (PCL-5) scores, and RPQ raw subscale scores correlated positively with commission and perseverative errors on the continuous performance test II (CPT-II). In contrast, the number of RPQ symptoms ostensibly worsened post-blast did not correlate with impulsive errors on the CPT-II. These data replicate earlier findings that link increased affective symptomatology to impaired behavior inhibition in military TBI populations, but where additional effects on impulsivity from the blast itself remain equivocal. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.

  14. A Physiological Approach to Prolonged Recovery From Sport-Related Concussion.

    PubMed

    Leddy, John; Baker, John G; Haider, Mohammad Nadir; Hinds, Andrea; Willer, Barry

    2017-03-01

    Management of the athlete with postconcussion syndrome (PCS) is challenging because of the nonspecificity of PCS symptoms. Ongoing symptoms reflect prolonged concussion pathophysiology or conditions such as migraine headaches, depression or anxiety, chronic pain, cervical injury, visual dysfunction, vestibular dysfunction, or some combination of these. In this paper, we focus on the physiological signs of concussion to help narrow the differential diagnosis of PCS in athletes. The physiological effects of exercise on concussion are especially important for athletes. Some athletes with PCS have exercise intolerance that may result from altered control of cerebral blood flow. Systematic evaluation of exercise tolerance combined with a physical examination of the neurologic, visual, cervical, and vestibular systems can in many cases identify one or more treatable postconcussion disorders.

  15. Electromagnetic interference of power conditioners for solar electric propulsion

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Whittlesey, A. C.; Macie, T. W.

    1973-01-01

    Electrical, multikilowatt power conditioning (PC) equipment needed on board a spacecraft utilizing solar electric propulsion creates an electromagnetic environment that is potentially deterimental to the science, navigation, and radio communication hardware. Within the scope of the solar electric propulsion system technology program, three lightweight, 2.5-kW PCs were evaluated in terms of their electromagnetic characteristics. It was found that the levels of radiated and conducted interference exceeded the levels anticipated for a solar electric propulsion mission. These noise emissions, however, were the result of deficient interference design in these models, rather than a basic inability to control interference in this type of PC.

  16. Intelligent video storage of visual evidences on site in fast deployment

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Desurmont, Xavier; Bastide, Arnaud; Delaigle, Jean-Francois

    2004-07-01

    In this article we present a generic, flexible, scalable and robust approach for an intelligent real-time forensic visual system. The proposed implementation could be rapidly deployable and integrates minimum logistic support as it embeds low complexity devices (PCs and cameras) that communicate through wireless network. The goal of these advanced tools is to provide intelligent video storage of potential video evidences for fast intervention during deployment around a hazardous sector after a terrorism attack, a disaster, an air crash or before attempt of it. Advanced video analysis tools, such as segmentation and tracking are provided to support intelligent storage and annotation.

  17. How Effective Is Our Teaching?

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wyckoff, S.

    2002-05-01

    More than 90% of U.S. university introductory physics courses are taught using lecture methods in spite of the large amount of research indicating that interactive teaching is considerably more effective. A brief overview of physics education research will be given, together with relevant connections with astronomy education research. Large enrollment classrooms have in the past presented obstacles to converting from lecture to interactive teaching. However, classroom communication systems (CCS) now provide a cost-effective way to convert any science classroom into an interactive learning environment. A pretest-posttest study using control groups of ten large enrollment introductory physics courses will be described. A new instrument, the Physics Concept Survey (PCS), developed to measure student understanding of basic concepts will be described, together with a classroom observation instrument, the Reformed Teaching Observation Protocol (RTOP), for measuring the extent that interactive teaching is used in a science classroom. We find that student conceptual understanding was enhanced by a factor of three in the interactive classrooms compared with the traditional lecture (control) courses. Moreover, a correlation between the PCS normalized gains and the RTOP scores is indicative that the interaction in the classrooms is the cause of the students' improved learning of basic physics concepts. This research was funded by the NSF (DUE 9453610).

  18. Communication interval selection in distributed heterogeneous simulation of large-scale dynamical systems

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lucas, Charles E.; Walters, Eric A.; Jatskevich, Juri; Wasynczuk, Oleg; Lamm, Peter T.

    2003-09-01

    In this paper, a new technique useful for the numerical simulation of large-scale systems is presented. This approach enables the overall system simulation to be formed by the dynamic interconnection of the various interdependent simulations, each representing a specific component or subsystem such as control, electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, or thermal. Each simulation may be developed separately using possibly different commercial-off-the-shelf simulation programs thereby allowing the most suitable language or tool to be used based on the design/analysis needs. These subsystems communicate the required interface variables at specific time intervals. A discussion concerning the selection of appropriate communication intervals is presented herein. For the purpose of demonstration, this technique is applied to a detailed simulation of a representative aircraft power system, such as that found on the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF). This system is comprised of ten component models each developed using MATLAB/Simulink, EASY5, or ACSL. When the ten component simulations were distributed across just four personal computers (PCs), a greater than 15-fold improvement in simulation speed (compared to the single-computer implementation) was achieved.

  19. Investigation of surfactant protein-D and interleukin-6 levels in patients with blunt chest trauma with multiple rib fractures and pulmonary contusions: a cross-sectional study in Black Sea Region of Turkey.

    PubMed

    Kurt, Aysel; Turut, Hasan; Acipayam, Ahmet; Kirbas, Aynur; Yuce, Suleyman; Cumhur Cure, Medine; Cure, Erkan

    2016-10-12

    Multiple rib fractures (RFs) and pulmonary contusions (PCs), with resulting systemic lung inflammation, are the most common injuries caused by blunt chest trauma (BCT) in motor vehicle accidents. This study examined levels of the inflammation marker interleukin (IL)-6 and those of the acute-phase reactant surfactant protein (SP)-D in patients with BCT. Prospective, cross-sectional, observational study. Single-centre, tertiary care hospital in the Black Sea Region of Turkey. The study included 60 patients with BCT who were hospitalised in our thoracic surgery department. The SP-D and IL-6 serum levels of patients with RFs (two or more RFs) (n=30) and patients with PCs (n=30) were measured after 6 hours, 24 hours and 7 days, and compared with those of age-matched and gender-matched healthy participants. The 6-hour serum SP-D levels of the RFs (p=0.017) and PCs (p<0.001) groups were significantly higher than those of the healthy controls. The 24-hour and 7-day SP-D levels of both groups were also higher than the control group. The serum IL-6 levels of both groups were significantly higher than those of the control group. We have found Injury Severity Score to be independently related to 6-hour IL-6 (β=1.414, p<0.001) and 24-hour IL-6 levels (β=1.067, p<0.001). The development of complications was independently related to 6-hour SP-D level (β=0.211, p=0.047). RFs and PCs after BCT lead to local and systemic inflammation due to lung injury. The levels of the systemic inflammation marker IL-6 and those of the acute-phase reactant SP-D were elevated in the present study. The SP-D level may be used as a marker in the follow-up of BCT-related complications. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/.

  20. Improvements in Health-related Quality of Life among Methadone Maintenance Clients in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

    PubMed Central

    Ubuguyu, Omary; Tran, Olivia C.; Bruce, R. Douglas; Masao, Frank; Nyandindi, Cassian; Sabuni, Norman; McCurdy, Sheryl; Mbwambo, Jessie

    2016-01-01

    Background Injection of heroin has become widespread in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania and is spreading throughout the country. To prevent potential bridging of HIV epidemics, the Tanzanian government established a methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) clinic in February 2011. We assess the effect of MMT on health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and examine factors, particularly HIV infection and methadone dose, associated with changes in HRQOL. Methods This study utilized routine data on clients enrolling in methadone from February 2011 to April 2012 at Muhimbili National Hospital. Change in physical (PCS) and mental health (MCS) composite scores, as measured by the SF-12 tool, were the primary outcomes. Backward stepwise linear regression, with a criterion of p<0.2 was used to identify baseline exposure variables for inclusion in multivariable models, while adjusting for baseline scores. Results A total of 288 MMT clients received baseline and follow-up assessments. Mean methadone dose administered was 45 mg (SD±25) and 76(27%) were confirmed HIV-positive. Significant improvements were observed in PCS and MCS, with mean increases of 15.7 and 3.3, respectively. In multivariable models, clients who had previous poly-substance use with cocaine [p=0.040] had a significantly higher mean change in PCS. Clients who were living with HIV [p=0.002]; satisfied with current marital situation [p=0.045]; had a history of suicidal thoughts [p=0.021]; and previously experienced cognitive difficulties [p=0.012] had significantly lower mean change in PCS. Clients with shorter history of heroin use [p=0.012] and who received higher methadone doses [p=0.028] had significantly higher mean change in MCS, compared to their counterparts. Discussion Aspects of mental and physical health, risk behaviors and quality of life among drug users are intertwined and complex. Our research revealed positive short-term effects of MMT on HRQOL and highlights the importance of sustained retention for optimal benefits. Comprehensive supportive services in addition to provision of methadone are needed to address the complex health needs of people who inject drugs. PMID:27017376

  1. Results from the Veterans Health Administration ICD-10-CM/PCS Coding Pilot Study.

    PubMed

    Weems, Shelley; Heller, Pamela; Fenton, Susan H

    2015-01-01

    The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) of the US Department of Veterans Affairs has been preparing for the October 1, 2015, conversion to the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification and Procedural Coding System (ICD-10-CM/PCS) for more than four years. The VHA's Office of Informatics and Analytics ICD-10 Program Management Office established an ICD-10 Learning Lab to explore expected operational challenges. This study was conducted to determine the effects of the classification system conversion on coding productivity. ICD codes are integral to VHA business processes and are used for purposes such as clinical studies, performance measurement, workload capture, cost determination, Veterans Equitable Resource Allocation (VERA) determination, morbidity and mortality classification, indexing of hospital records by disease and operations, data storage and retrieval, research purposes, and reimbursement. The data collection for this study occurred in multiple VHA sites across several months using standardized methods. It is commonly accepted that coding productivity will decrease with the implementation of ICD-10-CM/PCS. The findings of this study suggest that the decrease will be more significant for inpatient coding productivity (64.5 percent productivity decrease) than for ambulatory care coding productivity (6.7 percent productivity decrease). This study reveals the following important points regarding ICD-10-CM/PCS coding productivity: 1. Ambulatory care ICD-10-CM coding productivity is not expected to decrease as significantly as inpatient ICD-10-CM/PCS coding productivity. 2. Coder training and type of record (inpatient versus outpatient) affect coding productivity. 3. Inpatient coding productivity is decreased when a procedure requiring ICD-10-PCS coding is present. It is highly recommended that organizations perform their own analyses to determine the effects of ICD-10-CM/PCS implementation on coding productivity.

  2. Results from the Veterans Health Administration ICD-10-CM/PCS Coding Pilot Study

    PubMed Central

    Weems, Shelley; Heller, Pamela; Fenton, Susan H.

    2015-01-01

    The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) of the US Department of Veterans Affairs has been preparing for the October 1, 2015, conversion to the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification and Procedural Coding System (ICD-10-CM/PCS) for more than four years. The VHA's Office of Informatics and Analytics ICD-10 Program Management Office established an ICD-10 Learning Lab to explore expected operational challenges. This study was conducted to determine the effects of the classification system conversion on coding productivity. ICD codes are integral to VHA business processes and are used for purposes such as clinical studies, performance measurement, workload capture, cost determination, Veterans Equitable Resource Allocation (VERA) determination, morbidity and mortality classification, indexing of hospital records by disease and operations, data storage and retrieval, research purposes, and reimbursement. The data collection for this study occurred in multiple VHA sites across several months using standardized methods. It is commonly accepted that coding productivity will decrease with the implementation of ICD-10-CM/PCS. The findings of this study suggest that the decrease will be more significant for inpatient coding productivity (64.5 percent productivity decrease) than for ambulatory care coding productivity (6.7 percent productivity decrease). This study reveals the following important points regarding ICD-10-CM/PCS coding productivity: Ambulatory care ICD-10-CM coding productivity is not expected to decrease as significantly as inpatient ICD-10-CM/PCS coding productivity.Coder training and type of record (inpatient versus outpatient) affect coding productivity.Inpatient coding productivity is decreased when a procedure requiring ICD-10-PCS coding is present. It is highly recommended that organizations perform their own analyses to determine the effects of ICD-10-CM/PCS implementation on coding productivity. PMID:26396553

  3. Novel function of lecithin-cholesterol acyltransferase. Hydrolysis of oxidized polar phospholipids generated during lipoprotein oxidation.

    PubMed

    Goyal, J; Wang, K; Liu, M; Subbaiah, P V

    1997-06-27

    Although the major function of lecithin-cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) is cholesterol esterification, our previous studies showed that it can also hydrolyze platelet-activating factor (PAF). Because of the structural similarities between PAF and the truncated phosphatidylcholines (polar PCs) generated during lipoprotein oxidation, we investigated the possibility that LCAT may also hydrolyze polar PCs to lyso-PC during the oxidation of plasma. PAF acetylhydrolase (PAF-AH), which is known to hydrolyze polar PCs in human plasma, was completely inhibited by 0.2 mM p-aminoethyl benzenesulfonyl fluoride (Pefabloc), a new serine esterase inhibitor, which had no effect on LCAT at this concentration. On the other hand, 1 mM diisopropylfluorophosphate (DFP) completely inhibited LCAT but had no effect on PAF-AH. Polar PC accumulation during the oxidation of plasma increased by 44% in the presence of 0.2 mM Pefabloc and by 30% in the presence of 1 mM DFP. The formation of lyso-PC was concomitantly inhibited by both of the inhibitors. The combination of the two inhibitors resulted in the maximum accumulation of polar PCs, suggesting that both PAF-AH and LCAT are involved in their breakdown. Oxidation of chicken plasma, which has no PAF-AH activity, also resulted in the formation of lyso-PC from the hydrolysis of polar PC, which was inhibited by DFP. Polar PCs, either isolated from oxidized plasma or by oxidation of labeled synthetic PCs, were hydrolyzed by purified LCAT, which had no detectable PAF-AH activity. These results demonstrate a novel function for LCAT in the detoxification of polar PCs generated during lipoprotein oxidation, especially when the PAF-AH is absent or inactivated.

  4. Sub-Symptomatic Aerobic Exercise for Patients with Post-Concussion Syndrome: A Critically Appraised Topic.

    PubMed

    Ritter, Katrina G; Hussey, Matthew J; Valovich McLeod, Tamara C

    2017-09-27

    Clinical Scenario: Patients who experience prolonged concussion symptoms can be diagnosed with Post-Concussion Syndrome (PCS) when those symptoms persist past 4 weeks. Aerobic exercise protocols have been shown to be effective in improving physical and mental aspects of health. Emerging research suggests that aerobic exercise maybe useful as a treatment for PCS, where exercise allows patients to feel less isolated and more active during the recovery process. Is aerobic exercise more beneficial in reducing symptoms than current standard care in patients with prolonged symptoms or PCS lasting longer than 4 weeks? Summary of Key Findings: After a thorough literature search, 4 studies were selected relevant to the clinical question. Of the 4 studies, 1 was a randomized control trial and 3 were case series. All 4 studies investigate aerobic exercise protocol as treatment for PCS. 1-4 Three articles demonstrated a greater rate of symptom improvement from baseline assessment to follow-up after a controlled sub-symptomatic aerobic exercise program. 2-4 One study showed a decrease in symptoms in the aerobic exercise group compared to the full body stretching group. 1 Clinical Bottom Line: There is moderate evidence to support sub-symptomatic aerobic exercise as a treatment of PCS, therefore it should be considered as a clinical option for reducing PCS and prolonged concussion symptoms. A previously validated protocol, such as the Buffalo Concussion Treadmill Test, Balke Protocol, or Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) as mentioned in this critically appraised topic should be used to measure baseline values and treatment progression. Strength of Recommendation: Level C evidence exists that aerobic exercise protocol is more effective than the current standard of care in treating PCS.

  5. Investigation of Multiple Frequency Ranges Using Discrete Wavelet Decomposition of Resting-State Functional Connectivity in Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Patients.

    PubMed

    Sours, Chandler; Chen, Haoxing; Roys, Steven; Zhuo, Jiachen; Varshney, Amitabh; Gullapalli, Rao P

    2015-09-01

    The aim of this study was to investigate if discrete wavelet decomposition provides additional insight into resting-state processes through the analysis of functional connectivity within specific frequency ranges within the default mode network (DMN) that may be affected by mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). Participants included 32 mTBI patients (15 with postconcussive syndrome [PCS+] and 17 without [PCS-]). mTBI patients received resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) at acute (within 10 days of injury) and chronic (6 months postinjury) time points and were compared with 31 controls (healthy control [HC]). The wavelet decomposition divides the time series into multiple frequency ranges based on four scaling factors (SF1: 0.125-0.250 Hz, SF2: 0.060-0.125 Hz, SF3: 0.030-0.060 Hz, SF4: 0.015-0.030 Hz). Within each SF, wavelet connectivity matrices for nodes of the DMN were created for each group (HC, PCS+, PCS-), and bivariate measures of strength and diversity were calculated. The results demonstrate reduced strength of connectivity in PCS+ patients compared with PCS- patients within SF1 during both the acute and chronic stages of injury, as well as recovery of connectivity within SF1 across the two time points. Furthermore, the PCS- group demonstrated greater network strength compared with controls at both time points, suggesting a potential compensatory or protective mechanism in these patients. These findings stress the importance of investigating resting-state connectivity within multiple frequency ranges; however, many of our findings are within SF1, which may overlap with frequencies associated with cardiac and respiratory activities.

  6. Development and Utilization of the Regional Oceanic Modeling System (ROMS)

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2008-09-30

    the Peru/ Chile Current system (PCS). Emphasis is put on the PCS due to its direct connection with the equatorial region; this makes it a good...nearshore wind drop-off that occurs in reality. Numerical simulations of the Peru/ Chile (PCS) and the California (CCS) upwelling systems are being... Chile and the USWC 4. More subtle effects of the wind/SST coupling on the mesoscale eddy activity are now investigated. RESULTS Since funds for

  7. Enzymatic properties and substrate specificity of a bacterial phosphatidylcholine synthase.

    PubMed

    Aktas, Meriyem; Köster, Stefan; Kizilirmak, Sarah; Casanova, Javier C; Betz, Heidi; Fritz, Christiane; Moser, Roman; Yildiz, Özkan; Narberhaus, Franz

    2014-08-01

    Phosphatidylcholine (PC) is a rare membrane lipid in bacteria, but is crucial for virulence of the plant pathogen Agrobacterium tumefaciens and various other pathogens. Agrobacterium tumefaciens uses two independent PC biosynthesis pathways. One is dependent on the integral membrane protein PC synthase (Pcs), which catalyzes the conversion of cytidine diphosphate-diacylglycerol (CDP-DAG) and choline to PC, thereby releasing a cytidine monophosphate (CMP). Here, we show that Pcs consists of eight transmembrane segments with its N- and C-termini located in the cytoplasm. A cytoplasmic loop between the second and third membrane helix contains the majority of the conserved amino acids of a CDP-alcohol phosphotransferase motif (DGX2 ARX12 GX3 DX3 D). Using point mutagenesis, we provide evidence for a crucial role of this motif in choline binding and enzyme activity. To study the catalytic features of the enzyme, we established a purification protocol for recombinant Pcs. The enzyme forms stable oligomers and exhibits broad substrate specificity towards choline derivatives. The presence of CDP-DAG and manganese is a prerequisite for cooperative binding of choline. PC formation by Pcs is reversible and proceeds via two successive reactions. In a first choline- and manganese-independent reaction, CDP-DAG is hydrolyzed releasing a CMP molecule. The resulting phosphatidyl intermediate reacts with choline in a second manganese-dependent step to form PC. Pcs and Pcs bind by molecular sieving (1, 2, 3). © 2014 FEBS.

  8. Enhancing clinical decisions about care through a pre-consultation sheet that captures patients' views on their health conditions and treatments: A qualitative study in the field of chronic pain.

    PubMed

    Zanini, Claudia; Maino, Paolo; Möller, Jens Carsten; Gobbi, Claudio; Raimondi, Monika; Rubinelli, Sara

    2016-05-01

    This study examined whether and how a pre-consultation sheet (PCS) that captures patients' views on their condition and treatments can facilitate doctors in identifying targets for medical advice. A PCS in the form of a list of questions was developed and implemented in chronic pain consultations. Its value was examined through video-recordings and post-consultation interviews with doctors and patients. Doctors reported that the PCS helped them identify topics that required further discussion with patients, unexpected information, patients' expectations on outcomes, and their attitudes and beliefs about treatments. Patients reported that the PCS helped them collect and structure their views, reduced their anxiety regarding the encounter, and created a setting in which they felt heard. The PCS captures patients' views that are valuable in helping doctors identify targets of intervention. It focuses on aspects that matter to patients and that enrich information sharing beyond medical records. Addressing patients' views on health conditions and treatments facilitates doctors and patients in defining targets for intervention. It assists doctors in tailoring their advice and helps patients present their case. A PCS seems to be a feasible and acceptable instrument to support doctors and patients in this information sharing. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  9. Bio-inspired fabrication of stimuli-responsive photonic crystals with hierarchical structures and their applications

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lu, Tao; Peng, Wenhong; Zhu, Shenmin; Zhang, Di

    2016-03-01

    When the constitutive materials of photonic crystals (PCs) are stimuli-responsive, the resultant PCs exhibit optical properties that can be tuned by the stimuli. This can be exploited for promising applications in colour displays, biological and chemical sensors, inks and paints, and many optically active components. However, the preparation of the required photonic structures is the first issue to be solved. In the past two decades, approaches such as microfabrication and self-assembly have been developed to incorporate stimuli-responsive materials into existing periodic structures for the fabrication of PCs, either as the initial building blocks or as the surrounding matrix. Generally, the materials that respond to thermal, pH, chemical, optical, electrical, or magnetic stimuli are either soft or aggregate, which is why the manufacture of three-dimensional hierarchical photonic structures with responsive properties is a great challenge. Recently, inspired by biological PCs in nature which exhibit both flexible and responsive properties, researchers have developed various methods to synthesize metals and metal oxides with hierarchical structures by using a biological PC as the template. This review will focus on the recent developments in this field. In particular, PCs with biological hierarchical structures that can be tuned by external stimuli have recently been successfully fabricated. These findings offer innovative insights into the design of responsive PCs and should be of great importance for future applications of these materials.

  10. Detoxification of Arsenic by Phytochelatins in Plants1

    PubMed Central

    Schmöger, Marcus E.V.; Oven, Matjaz; Grill, Erwin

    2000-01-01

    As is a ubiquitous element present in the atmosphere as well as in the aquatic and terrestrial environments. Arsenite and arsenate are the major forms of As intoxication, and these anions are readily taken up by plants. Both anions efficiently induce the biosynthesis of phytochelatins (PCs) ([γ-glutamate-cysteine]n-glycine) in vivo and in vitro. The rapid induction of the metal-binding PCs has been observed in cell suspension cultures of Rauvolfia serpentina, in seedlings of Arabidopsis, and in enzyme preparations of Silene vulgaris upon challenge to arsenicals. The rate of PC formation in enzyme preparations was lower compared with Cd-induced biosynthesis, but was accompanied by a prolonged induction phase that resulted finally in higher peptide levels. An approximately 3:1 ratio of the sulfhydryl groups from PCs to As is compatible with reported As-glutathione complexes. The identity of the As-induced PCs and of reconstituted metal-peptide complexes has unequivocally been demonstrated by electrospray ionization mass spectroscopy. Gel filtration experiments and inhibitor studies also indicate a complexation and detoxification of As by the induced PCs. PMID:10712543

  11. Photophysicochemical properties and photodynamic therapy activity of highly water-soluble Zn(II) phthalocyanines.

    PubMed

    Oluwole, David O; Sarı, Fatma Aslıhan; Prinsloo, Earl; Dube, Edith; Yuzer, Abdulcelil; Nyokong, Tebello; Ince, Mine

    2018-05-29

    The syntheses of two zinc(II) phthalocyanines (ZnPcs) having either imidazole (ZnPc 1) or pyridiloxy (ZnPc 2) moieties as their macrocycle substituents are reported. Quaternization of the ZnPcs with methyl iodide afforded water soluble cationic phthalocyanines. The photophysical, photochemical properties and photodynamic therapy (PDT) activity of the ZnPcs were studied in solution. The fluorescence quantum yield and lifetime of ZnPc 1 were higher as compared to ZnPc 2. ZnPc 2 afforded higher triplet state (Φ T ) and singlet oxygen quantum yields (Φ Δ ) in comparison to ZnPc 1. The PDT activity of ZnPcs was investigated against human breast adenocarcinoma cells (MCF-7). The two compounds afforded a very minimal in vitro dark cytotoxicity with 85% viable cells at concentration ≤80 μM. On irradiation of the cells having the ZnPcs, ≥50% cell death was recorded for ZnPc 1 which was also evidenced by the cells photo-micrograph. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  12. Stochastic optimization of broadband reflecting photonic structures.

    PubMed

    Estrada-Wiese, D; Del Río-Chanona, E A; Del Río, J A

    2018-01-19

    Photonic crystals (PCs) are built to control the propagation of light within their structure. These can be used for an assortment of applications where custom designed devices are of interest. Among them, one-dimensional PCs can be produced to achieve the reflection of specific and broad wavelength ranges. However, their design and fabrication are challenging due to the diversity of periodic arrangement and layer configuration that each different PC needs. In this study, we present a framework to design high reflecting PCs for any desired wavelength range. Our method combines three stochastic optimization algorithms (Random Search, Particle Swarm Optimization and Simulated Annealing) along with a reduced space-search methodology to obtain a custom and optimized PC configuration. The optimization procedure is evaluated through theoretical reflectance spectra calculated by using the Equispaced Thickness Method, which improves the simulations due to the consideration of incoherent light transmission. We prove the viability of our procedure by fabricating different reflecting PCs made of porous silicon and obtain good agreement between experiment and theory using a merit function. With this methodology, diverse reflecting PCs can be designed for any applications and fabricated with different materials.

  13. Physicians’ Outlook on ICD-10-CM/PCS and Its Effect on Their Practice

    PubMed Central

    Watzlaf, Valerie; Alkarwi, Zahraa; Meyers, Sandy; Sheridan, Patty

    2015-01-01

    Background The United States is one of the last countries to change from ICD-9-CM to ICD-10-CM/PCS. The compliance date for implementation of ICD-10-CM/PCS is expected to fall on October 1, 2015. Objectives Evaluate physicians’ perceptions on the change from ICD-9-CM to ICD-10-CM/PCS and its effect on their practice, determine how HIM professionals can assist in this transition, and assess what resources are needed to aid in the transition. Results Twenty physicians were asked to participate in one of three focus groups. Twelve physicians (60 percent) agreed to participate. Top concerns included electronic health record software readiness, increase in documentation specificity and time, ability of healthcare professionals to learn a new language, and inadequacy of current training methods and content. Conclusion Physicians expressed that advantages of ICD-10-CM/PCS were effective data analytics and complexity of patient cases with more specific codes. Health information management professionals were touted as needed during the transition to create simple, clear specialty guides and crosswalks as well as education and training tools specific for physicians. PMID:26807074

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

    Halbgewachs, Ronald D.; Chavez, Adrian R.

    Process Control System (PCS) and Industrial Control System (ICS) security is critical to our national security. But there are a number of technological, economic, and educational impediments to PCS owners implementing effective security on their systems. Sandia National Laboratories has performed the research and development of the OPSAID (Open PCS Security Architecture for Interoperable Design), a project sponsored by the US Department of Energy Office of Electricity Delivery and Energy Reliability (DOE/OE), to address this issue. OPSAID is an open-source architecture for PCS/ICS security that provides a design basis for vendors to build add-on security devices for legacy systems, whilemore » providing a path forward for the development of inherently-secure PCS elements in the future. Using standardized hardware, a proof-of-concept prototype system was also developed. This report describes the improvements and capabilities that have been added to OPSAID since an initial report was released. Testing and validation of this architecture has been conducted in another project, Lemnos Interoperable Security Project, sponsored by DOE/OE and managed by the National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL).« less

  15. Conceptual Design of the ITER Plasma Control System

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Snipes, J. A.

    2013-10-01

    The conceptual design of the ITER Plasma Control System (PCS) has been approved and the preliminary design has begun for the 1st plasma PCS. This is a collaboration of many plasma control experts from existing devices to design and test plasma control techniques applicable to ITER on existing machines. The conceptual design considered all phases of plasma operation, ranging from non-active H/He plasmas through high fusion gain inductive DT plasmas to fully non-inductive steady-state operation, to ensure that the PCS control functionality and architecture can satisfy the demands of the ITER Research Plan. The PCS will control plasma equilibrium and density, plasma heat exhaust, a range of MHD instabilities (including disruption mitigation), and the non-inductive current profile required to maintain stable steady-state scenarios. The PCS architecture requires sophisticated shared actuator management and event handling systems to prioritize control goals, algorithms, and actuators according to dynamic control needs and monitor plasma and plant system events to trigger automatic changes in the control algorithms or operational scenario, depending on real-time operating limits and conditions.

  16. Comparison of surfactant lipids between pleural and pulmonary lining fluids.

    PubMed

    Mills, P C; Chen, Y; Hills, Y C; Hills, B A

    2006-01-01

    Saturated phospholipids (PCs), particularly dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC), predominate in surfactant lining the alveoli, although little is known about the relationship between saturated and unsaturated PCs on the outer surface of the lung, the pleura. Seven healthy cats were anesthetized and a bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) was performed, immediately followed by a pleural lavage (PL). Lipid was extracted from lavage fluid and then analyzed for saturated, primarily dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC), and unsaturated PC species using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with combined fluorescence and ultraviolet detection. Dilution of epithelial lining fluid (ELF) in lavage fluids was corrected for using the urea method. The concentration of DPPC in BAL fluid (85.3+/-15.7 microg/mL) was significantly higher (P=0.021) than unsaturated PCs ( approximately 40 microg/mL). However, unsaturated PCs ( approximately 34 microg/mL), particularly stearoyl-linoleoyl-phosphatidylcholine (SLPC; 17.4+/-6.8), were significantly higher (P=0.021) than DPPC (4.3+/-1.8 microg/mL) in PL fluid. These results show that unsaturated PCs appear functionally more important in the pleural cavity, which may have implications for surfactant replenishment following pleural disease or thoracic surgery.

  17. Self Organization in Compensated Semiconductors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Berezin, Alexander A.

    2004-03-01

    In partially compensated semiconductor (PCS) Fermi level is pinned to donor sub-band. Due to positional randomness and almost isoenergetic hoppings, donor-spanned electronic subsystem in PCS forms fluid-like highly mobile collective state. This makes PCS playground for pattern formation, self-organization, complexity emergence, electronic neural networks, and perhaps even for origins of life, bioevolution and consciousness. Through effects of impact and/or Auger ionization of donor sites, whole PCS may collapse (spinodal decomposition) into microblocks potentially capable of replication and protobiological activity (DNA analogue). Electronic screening effects may act in RNA fashion by introducing additional length scale(s) to system. Spontaneous quantum computing on charged/neutral sites becomes potential generator of informationally loaded microstructures akin to "Carl Sagan Effect" (hidden messages in Pi in his "Contact") or informational self-organization of "Library of Babel" of J.L. Borges. Even general relativity effects at Planck scale (R.Penrose) may affect the dynamics through (e.g.) isotopic variations of atomic mass and local density (A.A.Berezin, 1992). Thus, PCS can serve as toy model (experimental and computational) at interface of physics and life sciences.

  18. Study of the interrelation between the electrotechnical parameters of the plasma focus discharge circuit and the plasma compression dynamics on the PF-3 and PF-1000 facilities

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mitrofanov, K. N.; Krauz, V. I.; Grabovski, E. V.; Myalton, V. V.; Vinogradov, V. P.; Paduch, M.; Scholz, M.; Karpiński, L.

    2015-05-01

    The main stages of the plasma current sheath (PCS) dynamics on two plasma focus (PF) facilities with different geometries of the electrode system, PF-3 (Filippov type) and PF-1000 (Mather type), were studied by analyzing the results of the current and voltage measurements. Some dynamic characteristics, such as the PCS velocity in the acceleration phase in the Mather-type facility (PF-1000), the moment at which the PCS reaches the anode end, and the plasma velocity in the radial stage of plasma compression in the PF-3 Filippov-type facility, were determined from the time dependence of the inductance of the discharge circuit with a dynamic plasma load. The energy characteristics of the discharge circuit of the compressing PCS were studied for different working gases (deuterium, argon, and neon) at initial pressures of 1.5-3 Torr in discharges with energies of 0.3-0.6 MJ. In experiments with deuterium, correlation between the neutron yield and the electromagnetic energy deposited directly in the compressed PCS was investigated.

  19. A Physiological Approach to Prolonged Recovery From Sport-Related Concussion

    PubMed Central

    Leddy, John; Baker, John G.; Haider, Mohammad Nadir; Hinds, Andrea; Willer, Barry

    2017-01-01

    Management of the athlete with postconcussion syndrome (PCS) is challenging because of the nonspecificity of PCS symptoms. Ongoing symptoms reflect prolonged concussion pathophysiology or conditions such as migraine headaches, depression or anxiety, chronic pain, cervical injury, visual dysfunction, vestibular dysfunction, or some combination of these. In this paper, we focus on the physiological signs of concussion to help narrow the differential diagnosis of PCS in athletes. The physiological effects of exercise on concussion are especially important for athletes. Some athletes with PCS have exercise intolerance that may result from altered control of cerebral blood flow. Systematic evaluation of exercise tolerance combined with a physical examination of the neurologic, visual, cervical, and vestibular systems can in many cases identify one or more treatable postconcussion disorders. PMID:28387557

  20. Kepler Reliability and Occurrence Rates

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bryson, Steve

    2016-10-01

    The Kepler mission has produced tables of exoplanet candidates (``KOI table''), as well as tables of transit detections (``TCE table''), hosted at the Exoplanet Archive (http://exoplanetarchive.ipac.caltech.edu). Transit detections in the TCE table that are plausibly due to a transiting object are selected for inclusion in the KOI table. KOI table entries that have not been identified as false positives (FPs) or false alarms (FAs) are classified as planet candidates (PCs, Mullally et al. 2015). A subset of PCs have been confirmed as planetary transits with greater than 99% probability, but most PCs have <99% probability of being true planets. The fraction of PCs that are true transiting planets is the PC reliability rate. The overall PC population is believed to have a reliability rate >90% (Morton & Johnson 2011).

  1. The DIII-D Plasma Control System as a Scientific Research Tool

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hyatt, A. W.; Ferron, J. R.; Humphreys, D. A.; Leuer, J. A.; Walker, M. L.; Welander, A. S.

    2006-10-01

    The digital plasma control system (PCS) is an essential element of the DIII-D tokamak as a scientific research instrument, providing experimenters with real-time measurement and control of the plasma equilibrium, heating, current drive, transport, stability, and plasma-wall interactions. A wide range of sensors and actuators allow feedback control not only of global quantities such as discharge shape, plasma energy, and toroidal rotation, but also of non-axisymmetric magnetic fields and features of the internal profiles of temperature and current density. These diverse capabilities of the PCS improve the effectiveness of tokamak operation and enable unique physics experiments. We will present an overview of the PCS and the systems it controls and interacts with, and show examples of various plasma parameters controlled by the PCS and its actuators.

  2. Thermoresponsive wettability of photonic crystals fabricated by core-shell poly(styrene-acrylamide) nano/microspheres.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Yuqi; Gao, Loujun; Heng, Liping; Wei, Qingbo; Yang, Hua; Wang, Qiao

    2013-03-01

    The photonic crystals (PCs) films with tunable wettability were fabricated from self-assembly of an amphiphilic latex nano/microspheres poly(styrene-acrylamide) at different temperatures. The results demonstrate that the surface wettability of the PCs film can be tuned from high hydrophilic (CA, 17 degrees) to high hydrophobic (CA, 127.8 degrees) by controlling the assembly temperature from 30 degrees C to 90 degrees C, while the position of the photonic stopbands of the PCs films unchanged virtually. The obvious wettability transition is due to the change of the surface chemical component of the latex spheres, which mainly derives from the phase separation of polymer segments driven toward minimum interfacial energy. The facile method could open new application fields of PCs in diverse environments.

  3. Indole 3-acetic acid, indoxyl sulfate and paracresyl-sulfate do not influence anemia parameters in hemodialysis patients.

    PubMed

    Bataille, Stanislas; Pelletier, Marion; Sallée, Marion; Berland, Yvon; McKay, Nathalie; Duval, Ariane; Gentile, Stéphanie; Mouelhi, Yosra; Brunet, Philippe; Burtey, Stéphane

    2017-07-26

    The main reason for anemia in renal failure patients is the insufficient erythropoietin production by the kidneys. Beside erythropoietin deficiency, in vitro studies have incriminated uremic toxins in the pathophysiology of anemia but clinical data are sparse. In order to assess if indole 3-acetic acid (IAA), indoxyl sulfate (IS), and paracresyl sulfate (PCS) -three protein bound uremic toxins- are clinically implicated in end-stage renal disease anemia we studied the correlation between IAA, IS and PCS plasmatic concentrations with hemoglobin and Erythropoietin Stimulating Agents (ESA) use in hemodialysis patients. Between June and July 2014, we conducted an observational cross sectional study in two hemodialysis center. Three statistical approaches were conducted. First, we compared patients treated with ESA and those not treated. Second, we performed linear regression models between IAA, IS, and PCS plasma concentrations and hemoglobin, the ESA dose over hemoglobin ratio (ESA/Hemoglobin) or the ESA resistance index (ERI). Third, we used a polytomous logistic regression model to compare groups of patients with no/low/high ESA dose and low/high hemoglobin statuses. Overall, 240 patients were included in the study. Mean age ± SD was 67.6 ± 16.0 years, 55.4% were men and 42.5% had diabetes mellitus. When compared with ESA treated patients, patients with no ESA had higher hemoglobin (mean 11.4 ± 1.1 versus 10.6 ± 1.2 g/dL; p <0.001), higher transferrin saturation (TSAT, 31.1 ± 16.3% versus 23.1 ± 11.5%; p < 0.001), less frequently an IV iron prescription (52.1 versus 65.7%, p = 0.04) and were more frequently treated with hemodiafiltration (53.5 versus 36.7%). In univariate analysis, IAA, IS or PCS plasma concentrations did not differ between the two groups. In the linear model, IAA plasma concentration was not associated with hemoglobin, but was negatively associated with ESA/Hb (p = 0.02; R = 0.18) and with the ERI (p = 0.03; R = 0.17). IS was associated with none of the three anemia parameters. PCS was positively associated with hemoglobin (p = 0.03; R = 0.14), but negatively with ESA/Hb (p = 0.03; R = 0.17) and the ERI (p = 0.02; R = 0.19). In multivariate analysis, the association of IAA concentration with ESA/Hb or ERI was not statistically significant, neither was the association of PCS with ESA/Hb or ERI. Identically, in the subgroup of 76 patients with no inflammation (CRP <5 mg/L) and no iron deficiency (TSAT >20%) linear regression between IAA, IS or PCS and any anemia parameter did not reach significance. In the third model, univariate analysis showed no intergroup significant differences for IAA and IS. Regarding PCS, the Low Hb/High ESA group had lower concentrations. However, when we compared PCS with the other significant characteristics of the five groups to the Low Hb/high ESA (our reference group), the polytomous logistic regression model didn't show any significant difference for PCS. In our study, using three different statistical models, we were unable to show any correlation between IAA, IS and PCS plasmatic concentrations and any anemia parameter in hemodialysis patients. Indolic uremic toxins and PCS have no or a very low effect on anemia parameters.

  4. Nurse staffing issues are just the tip of the iceberg: a qualitative study about nurses' perceptions of nurse staffing.

    PubMed

    van Oostveen, Catharina J; Mathijssen, Elke; Vermeulen, Hester

    2015-08-01

    To obtain in-depth insight into the perceptions of nurses in the Netherlands regarding current nurse staffing levels and use of nurse-to-patient-ratios (NPR) and patient classification systems (PCS). In response to rising health care demands due to ageing of the patient population and increasing complexity of healthcare, hospital boards have been implementing NPRs and PCSs. However, many nurses at the unit level believe that staffing levels have become critically low, endangering the quality and safety of their patient care. This descriptive phenomenological qualitative study was conducted in a 1000-bed Dutch university hospital among 24 wards of four specialties (surgery, internal medicine, neurology, gynaecology & obstetrics and paediatric care). Data were collected from September until December 2012. To collect data four focus groups (n=44 nurses) were organized. Additionally, a total of 27 interviews (20 head nurses, 4 nurse directors and 3 quality advisors) were conducted using purposive sampling. The focus groups and interviews were audiotaped, transcribed and subjected to thematic analysis. Nurse staffing issues appear to be merely the 'tip of the iceberg'. Below the surface three underlying main themes became clear - nursing behaviour, authority, and autonomy - which are linked by one overall theme: nurses' position. In general, nurses' behaviour, way of thinking, decision-making and communication of thoughts or information differs from other healthcare disciplines, e.g. physicians and quality advisors. This results in a perceived and actual lack of authority and autonomy. This in turn hinders them to plead for adequate nurse staffing in order to achieve the common goal of safe and high-quality patient care. Nurses desired a valid nursing care intensity system as an interdisciplinary and objective communication tool that makes nursing care visible and creates possibilities for better positioning of nurses in hospitals and further professionalization in terms of enhanced authority and autonomy. The perceived subservient position of nurses in the hospital appears to be the root cause of nurse staffing problems. It is yet unknown whether an objective PCS to measure nursing care intensity would help them communicate effectively and credibly, thereby improving their own position. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  5. A partial differential equation for pseudocontact shift.

    PubMed

    Charnock, G T P; Kuprov, Ilya

    2014-10-07

    It is demonstrated that pseudocontact shift (PCS), viewed as a scalar or a tensor field in three dimensions, obeys an elliptic partial differential equation with a source term that depends on the Hessian of the unpaired electron probability density. The equation enables straightforward PCS prediction and analysis in systems with delocalized unpaired electrons, particularly for the nuclei located in their immediate vicinity. It is also shown that the probability density of the unpaired electron may be extracted, using a regularization procedure, from PCS data.

  6. The Effects of Military Change-of-Station Moves on Spousal Earnings

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2016-12-02

    who experienced a PCS move with the data of military spouses who did not move but were similar in other ways, including sex , age, rural or urban...location, number and age of children , servicemember rank and education, and many other factors. Findings This study elicited a number of findings... children under the age of 6 are particu- larly adversely impacted by PCS moves. Figure 2 shows how, in the year of the PCS move, spouses with young

  7. Analyzing Benefits of Extending the PCS Tempo in the Marine Corps

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2011-12-01

    voice the general consensus about the PCS process in the Marine Corps.  Heartfelt thanks to my mother , brothers, and sisters. I would not be who I am...stress at home, and if so, how do they feel about the PCS process and its effect on the following aspects of family life ? a. Spouse higher education...between team effectiveness and the satisfaction level and well-being of team members. Third, a relation also exists between the team survivability

  8. Job coding (PCS 2003): feedback from a study conducted in an Occupational Health Service

    PubMed

    Henrotin, Jean-Bernard; Vaissière, Monique; Etaix, Maryline; Malard, Stéphane; Dziurla, Mathieu; Lafon, Dominique

    2016-10-19

    Aim: To examine the quality of manual job coding carried out by occupational health teams with access to a software application that provides assistance in job and business sector coding (CAPS). Methods: Data from a study conducted in an Occupational Health Service were used to examine the first-level coding of 1,495 jobs by occupational health teams according to the French job classification entitled “PSC- Professions and socio-professional categories” (INSEE, 2003 version). A second level of coding was also performed by an experienced coder and the first and second level codes were compared. Agreement between the two coding systems was studied using the kappa coefficient (κ) and frequencies were compared by Chi2 tests. Results: Missing data or incorrect codes were observed for 14.5% of social groups (1 digit) and 25.7% of job codes (4 digits). While agreement between the first two levels of PCS 2003 appeared to be satisfactory (κ=0.73 and κ=0.75), imbalances in reassignment flows were effectively noted. The divergent job code rate was 48.2%. Variation in the frequency of socio-occupational variables was as high as 8.6% after correcting for missing data and divergent codes. Conclusions: Compared with other studies, the use of the CAPS tool appeared to provide effective coding assistance. However, our results indicate that job coding based on PSC 2003 should be conducted using ancillary data by personnel trained in the use of this tool.

  9. Vestibulo-ocular dysfunction in pediatric sports-related concussion.

    PubMed

    Ellis, Michael J; Cordingley, Dean; Vis, Sara; Reimer, Karen; Leiter, Jeff; Russell, Kelly

    2015-09-01

    The objective of this study was 2-fold: 1) to examine the prevalence of vestibulo-ocular dysfunction (VOD) among children and adolescents with acute sports-related concussion (SRC) and postconcussion syndrome (PCS) who were referred to a multidisciplinary pediatric concussion program; and 2) to determine if VOD is associated with the development of PCS in this cohort. The authors conducted a retrospective review of all patients with acute SRC (presenting 30 days or less postinjury) and PCS (3 or more symptoms for at least 1 month) referred to a multidisciplinary pediatric concussion program between September 2013 and July 2014. Initial assessment included clinical history, physical examination, and Post-Concussion Symptom Scale assessment. Patients were also assessed for VOD, which was defined as more than one subjective vestibular and oculomotor complaint (dizziness, blurred vision, and so on) and more than one objective physical examination finding (abnormal smooth pursuits, saccades, vestibulo-ocular reflex, and so on). This study was approved by the local institutional ethics review board. A total of 101 patients (mean age 14.2 years, SD 2.3 years; 63 male and 38 female patients) participated, including 77 (76.2%) with acute SRC and 24 (23.8%) with PCS. Twenty-two of the 77 patients (28.6%) with acute SRC and 15 of the 24 (62.5%) with PCS met the clinical criteria for VOD. The median duration of symptoms was 40 days (interquartile range [IQR] 28.5-54 days) for patients with acute SRC who had VOD compared with 21 days (IQR 13-32 days) for those without VOD (p = 0.0001). There was a statistically significant increase in the adjusted odds of developing PCS among patients with acute SRC who had VOD compared with those without VOD (adjusted OR 4.10; 95% CI 1.04-16.16). Evidence of VOD was detected in a significant proportion of children and adolescents with acute SRC and PCS who were referred to a multidisciplinary pediatric concussion program. This clinical feature was a significant risk factor for the subsequent development of PCS in this pediatric acute SRC cohort.

  10. Functional recovery patterns in seriously injured automotive crash victims.

    PubMed

    McMurry, Timothy L; Poplin, Gerald S; Crandall, Jeff

    2016-09-01

    The functional capacity index (FCI) is designed to predict functional loss 12 months post-injury for each injury in the 2008 Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) manual on a scale from 0 (death) to 100 (full recovery), but FCI has never been validated. This study compared FCI predicted loss with patient-reported 12-month outcomes as measured through the Short Form 36 (SF-36) health assessment survey. Using follow-up data collected on 2,858 adult car crash occupants in the Crash Injury Research and Engineering Network (CIREN) database, we compared FCI predicted outcomes to occupants' Physical Component Summary (PCS) scores, which are weighted averages of the SF-36 items addressing physical function. Our analyses included descriptive statistics, plots of typical recovery patterns, and a mixed effects regression model that describes PCS as a function of FCI, demographics, comorbidities, and injury pattern while also adjusting for the occupants' pre-crash physical capabilities. We further examined injuries in patients who report a significant drop in PCS 12 months post-crash despite being predicted to fully recover. At baseline, the CIREN population exhibited PCS scores similar to the overall population (mean = 51.1, SD = 10.3). Twelve months post-crash, occupants with predicted impairment (FCI < 100) report a substantial decrease in physical function, and those who were predicted to fully recover still report some, albeit less, impairment. In the multivariate mixed-effects regression model, FCI is a strongly significant (P-value <.0001) predictor of PCS, with each 1-point drop in FCI predicting a 0.27-point drop in PCS. Maximum AIS severities in the head, spine, and lower extremity body regions were also significantly associated with PCS (P-values <.05). Among occupants who were expected to fully recover but who report a significant drop in PCS at 12 months, spinal fractures without cord involvement account for 5 of the 10 most common AIS 2+ injuries. FCI was associated with 12-month outcomes but may not adequately describe the recovery from some head, spine, and lower extremity injuries. Some occupants who were expected to recover still report functional loss 12 months post-injury.

  11. Gas chromatography/principal component similarity system for detection of E. coli and S. aureus contaminating salmon and hamburger.

    PubMed

    Nakai, S; Wang, Z H; Dou, J; Nakamura, S; Ogawa, M; Nakai, E; Vanderstoep, J

    1999-02-01

    Coho, Atlantic, Spring, and Sockeye salmon and five commercial samples of hamburger patties were analyzed by processing gas chromatography (GC) data of volatile compounds using the principal component similarity (PCS) technique. PCS scattergrams of the samples inoculated with Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus followed by incubation showed the pattern-shift lines moving away from the data point for uninoculated, unincubated reference samples in different directions with increasing incubation time. When the PCS scattergrams were drawn for samples incubated overnight, the samples inoculated with the two bacterial species and the uninoculated samples appeared as three separated groups. This GC/PCS approach has the potential to ensure quality of samples by discriminating good samples from potentially spoiled samples. The latter may require further microbial assays to identify the bacteria species potentially contaminating foods.

  12. Multidecadal climate variability of global lands and oceans

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    McCabe, G.J.; Palecki, M.A.

    2006-01-01

    Principal components analysis (PCA) and singular value decomposition (SVD) are used to identify the primary modes of decadal and multidecadal variability in annual global Palmer Drought Severity Index (PDSI) values and sea-surface temperature (SSTs). The PDSI and SST data for 1925-2003 were detrended and smoothed (with a 10-year moving average) to isolate the decadal and multidecadal variability. The first two principal components (PCs) of the PDSI PCA explained almost 38% of the decadal and multidecadal variance in the detrended and smoothed global annual PDSI data. The first two PCs of detrended and smoothed global annual SSTs explained nearly 56% of the decadal variability in global SSTs. The PDSI PCs and the SST PCs are directly correlated in a pairwise fashion. The first PDSI and SST PCs reflect variability of the detrended and smoothed annual Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO), as well as detrended and smoothed annual Indian Ocean SSTs. The second set of PCs is strongly associated with the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO). The SVD analysis of the cross-covariance of the PDSI and SST data confirmed the close link between the PDSI and SST modes of decadal and multidecadal variation and provided a verification of the PCA results. These findings indicate that the major modes of multidecadal variations in SSTs and land-surface climate conditions are highly interrelated through a small number of spatially complex but slowly varying teleconnections. Therefore, these relations may be adaptable to providing improved baseline conditions for seasonal climate forecasting. Published in 2006 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  13. pH value promotes growth of Staphylococcus epidermidis in platelet concentrates.

    PubMed

    Störmer, Melanie; Kleesiek, Knut; Dreier, Jens

    2008-05-01

    The platelet (PLT) storage lesion is characterized metabolically by a pH value associated with lactic acid generation. PLT storage conditions support the growth of Staphylococcus epidermidis, the most common organism implicated in bacterial contamination of PLT concentrates (PCs). Here, different factors that influence bacterial growth in PCs are discussed and the relation between pH values of PCs and citrate plasma (CP) is studied, with emphasis on bacterial proliferation. The PLT lesion with regard to pH decrease and lactic acid production was monitored during storage and correlated to bacterial proliferation properties. A total of 115 coagulase-negative staphylococci, especially S. epidermidis isolates, were characterized for their proliferation in different blood components (CP, buffy coat-derived, and apheresis PCs). Furthermore, the influence of donor-specific, product-specific, species-specific, and strain-specific factors on bacterial proliferation was investigated. PCs showed a lower pH value in comparison to plasma during storage. Bacterial proliferation in PCs and the failure to grow in CP were determined with all organisms tested. No correlation to donor-specific, species-specific, or strain-specific factors was observed. Lowering the pH of CP resulted in bacterial proliferation, whereas a pH increase in the PC unit inhibited the proliferation of S. epidermidis. With emphasis on bacterial proliferation, the significant difference between PC and CP is the presence of metabolizing PLTs. The pH values of stored PLTs, but not those of stored plasma, support the growth of S. epidermidis.

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

    Meneses, Luis, E-mail: lmeneseq@gmail.com; Fava, Mario; Diaz, Pia

    We present our experience with embolization of incompetent pelvic veins (IPV) in women with recurrence of varicose veins (VV) in lower limbs, as well as symptoms of pelvic congestion syndrome (PCS), after first surgery. In addition, we evaluated the effects of embolization in decreasing the symptoms of VV before surgery as well as its effects on PCS symptoms. We included 10 women who had consulted a vascular surgeon because of recurrent VV in lower limbs after surgery. All of these patients were included in the study because they also had symptoms of PCS, probably due to IPV. In patients whomore » had confirmed IPV, we performed embolization before a second surgery. VV and PCS were assessed before and at 3 months after embolization (before the second surgery) using a venous clinical severity score (VCSS) and a visual analog pain scale (VAS), respectively. Patients were controlled between 3 and 6 months after embolization. Paired Student t test analysis was used for comparing data before and after embolization. Fifteen vein segments in 10 women were suitable for embolization. There was a significant (p < 0.001) decrease of VCSS after embolization, and recurrence of VV was not detected within a period of 6 months. There was also significant (p < 0.01) relief of chronic pelvic pain related to PCS evaluated using VAS at 3 months after embolization. Embolization decreases the risk of VV recurrence after surgery and also improves PCS symptoms in women with VV in lower limbs and IPV.« less

  15. Morbidity, mortality, and categorization of the risk of perioperative complications in lung cancer patients*

    PubMed Central

    Stanzani, Fabiana; Paisani, Denise de Moraes; de Oliveira, Anderson; de Souza, Rodrigo Caetano; Perfeito, João Aléssio Juliano; Faresin, Sonia Maria

    2014-01-01

    OBJECTIVE: To determine morbidity and mortality rates by risk category in accordance with the American College of Chest Physicians guidelines, to determine what role pulmonary function tests play in this categorization process, and to identify risk factors for perioperative complications (PCs). METHODS: This was a historical cohort study based on preoperative and postoperative data collected for cases of lung cancer diagnosed or suspected between 2001 and 2010. RESULTS: Of the 239 patients evaluated, only 13 (5.4%) were classified as being at high risk of PCs. Predicted postoperative FEV1 (FEV1ppo) was sufficient to define the risk level in 156 patients (65.3%); however, cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) was necessary for identifying those at high risk. Lung resection was performed in 145 patients. Overall morbidity and mortality rates were similar to those reported in other studies. However, morbidity and mortality rates for patients at an acceptable risk of PCs were 31.6% and 4.3%, respectively, whereas those for patients at high risk were 83.3% and 33.3%. Advanced age, COPD, lobe resection, and lower FEV1ppo were correlated with PCs. CONCLUSIONS: Although spirometry was sufficient for risk assessment in the majority of the population studied, CPET played a key role in the identification of high-risk patients, among whom the mortality rate was seven times higher than was that observed for those at an acceptable risk of PCs. The risk factors related to PCs coincided with those reported in previous studies. PMID:24626266

  16. Heterogeneity of Purkinje cell simple spike-complex spike interactions: zebrin- and non-zebrin-related variations.

    PubMed

    Tang, Tianyu; Xiao, Jianqiang; Suh, Colleen Y; Burroughs, Amelia; Cerminara, Nadia L; Jia, Linjia; Marshall, Sarah P; Wise, Andrew K; Apps, Richard; Sugihara, Izumi; Lang, Eric J

    2017-08-01

    Cerebellar Purkinje cells (PCs) generate two types of action potentials, simple and complex spikes. Although they are generated by distinct mechanisms, interactions between the two spike types exist. Zebrin staining produces alternating positive and negative stripes of PCs across most of the cerebellar cortex. Thus, here we compared simple spike-complex spike interactions both within and across zebrin populations. Simple spike activity undergoes a complex modulation preceding and following a complex spike. The amplitudes of the pre- and post-complex spike modulation phases were correlated across PCs. On average, the modulation was larger for PCs in zebrin positive regions. Correlations between aspects of the complex spike waveform and simple spike activity were found, some of which varied between zebrin positive and negative PCs. The implications of the results are discussed with regard to hypotheses that complex spikes are triggered by rises in simple spike activity for either motor learning or homeostatic functions. Purkinje cells (PCs) generate two types of action potentials, called simple and complex spikes (SSs and CSs). We first investigated the CS-associated modulation of SS activity and its relationship to the zebrin status of the PC. The modulation pattern consisted of a pre-CS rise in SS activity, and then, following the CS, a pause, a rebound, and finally a late inhibition of SS activity for both zebrin positive (Z+) and negative (Z-) cells, though the amplitudes of the phases were larger in Z+ cells. Moreover, the amplitudes of the pre-CS rise with the late inhibitory phase of the modulation were correlated across PCs. In contrast, correlations between modulation phases across CSs of individual PCs were generally weak. Next, the relationship between CS spikelets and SS activity was investigated. The number of spikelets/CS correlated with the average SS firing rate only for Z+ cells. In contrast, correlations across CSs between spikelet numbers and the amplitudes of the SS modulation phases were generally weak. Division of spikelets into likely axonally propagated and non-propagated groups (based on their interspikelet interval) showed that the correlation of spikelet number with SS firing rate primarily reflected a relationship with non-propagated spikelets. In sum, the results show both zebrin-related and non-zebrin-related physiological heterogeneity in SS-CS interactions among PCs, which suggests that the cerebellar cortex is more functionally diverse than is assumed by standard theories of cerebellar function. © 2017 The Authors. The Journal of Physiology © 2017 The Physiological Society.

  17. Clinical predictors of vestibulo-ocular dysfunction in pediatric sports-related concussion.

    PubMed

    Ellis, Michael J; Cordingley, Dean M; Vis, Sara; Reimer, Karen M; Leiter, Jeff; Russell, Kelly

    2017-01-01

    OBJECTIVE There were 2 objectives of this study. The first objective was to identify clinical variables associated with vestibulo-ocular dysfunction (VOD) detected at initial consultation among pediatric patients with acute sports-related concussion (SRC) and postconcussion syndrome (PCS). The second objective was to reexamine the prevalence of VOD in this clinical cohort and evaluate the effect of VOD on length of recovery and the development of PCS. METHODS A retrospective review was conducted for all patients with acute SRC and PCS who were evaluated at a pediatric multidisciplinary concussion program from September 2013 to May 2015. Acute SRS was defined as presenting < 30 days postinjury, and PCS was defined according to the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision criteria and included being symptomatic 30 days or longer postinjury. The initial assessment included clinical history and physical examination performed by 1 neurosurgeon. Patients were assessed for VOD, defined as the presence of more than 1 subjective vestibular and oculomotor complaint (dizziness, diplopia, blurred vision, etc.) and more than 1 objective physical examination finding (abnormal near point of convergence, smooth pursuits, saccades, or vestibulo-ocular reflex testing). Poisson regression analysis was used to identify factors that increased the risk of VOD at initial presentation and the development of PCS. RESULTS Three hundred ninety-nine children, including 306 patients with acute SRC and 93 with PCS, were included. Of these patients, 30.1% of those with acute SRC (65.0% male, mean age 13.9 years) and 43.0% of those with PCS (41.9% male, mean age 15.4 years) met the criteria for VOD at initial consultation. Independent predictors of VOD at initial consultation included female sex, preinjury history of depression, posttraumatic amnesia, and presence of dizziness, blurred vision, or difficulty focusing at the time of injury. Independent predictors of PCS among patients with acute SRC included the presence of VOD at initial consultation, preinjury history of depression, and posttraumatic amnesia at the time of injury. CONCLUSIONS This study identified important potential risk factors for the development of VOD following pediatric SRC. These results provide confirmatory evidence that VOD at initial consultation is associated with prolonged recovery and is an independent predictor for the development of PCS. Future studies examining clinical prediction rules in pediatric concussion should include VOD. Additional research is needed to elucidate the natural history of VOD following SRC and establish evidence-based indications for targeted vestibular rehabilitation.

  18. Factors associated with the health status of internally displaced persons in northern Uganda

    PubMed Central

    Roberts, B; Ocaka, K Felix; Browne, J; Oyok, T; Sondorp, E

    2009-01-01

    Background: Globally, there are over 24 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) who have fled their homes due to violence and insecurity but who remain within their own country. There have been up to 2 million IDPs in northern Uganda alone. The objective of this study was to investigate factors associated with mental and physical health status of IDPs in northern Uganda. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in November 2006 in IDP camps in the Gulu and Amuru districts of northern Uganda. The study outcome of physical and mental health was measured using the SF-8 instrument, which produces physical (PCS) and mental (MCS) component summary measures. Independent demographic, socio-economic, and trauma exposure (using the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire) variables were also measured. Multivariate regression linear regression analysis was conducted to investigate associations of the independent variables on the PCS and MCS outcomes. Results: 1206 interviews were completed. The respective mean PCS and MCS scores were 42.2 (95% CI 41.32 to 43.10) and 39.3 (95% CI 38.42 to 40.13), well below the instrument norm of 50, indicating poor health. Variables with negative associations with physical or mental health included gender, age, marital status, income, distance of camp from home areas, food security, soap availability, and sense of safety in the camp. A number of individual trauma variables and the frequency of trauma exposure also had negative associations with physical and mental health. Conclusions: This study provides evidence on the impact on health of deprivation of basic goods and services, traumatic events, and fear and uncertainty amongst displaced and crisis affected populations. PMID:19028730

  19. Pain in patients with transverse myelitis and its relationship to aquaporin 4 antibody status.

    PubMed

    Kong, Yazhuo; Okoruwa, Helen; Revis, Jon; Tackley, George; Leite, Maria Isabel; Lee, Michael; Tracey, Irene; Palace, Jacqueline

    2016-09-15

    Pain in transverse myelitis has been poorly studied. The aim of the study was to investigate the relationship between transverse myelitis related pain and disability, quality of life, anxiety and depression, cognitive-affective states in neuromyelitis optica (NMO) patients and aquaporin4 antibody status (AQP4-Ab +ve as positive and AQP4-Ab -ve as negative). Transverse myelitis patients (44 in total; 29 AQP4-Ab +ve and 15 AQP4-Ab -ve) completed questionnaires including Pain Severity Index (PSI), Pain Catastrophising Scale (PCS), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Short Form-36 quality of life (SF-36 QOL). Clinical details such as disability, gender, age and spinal cord lesion type (short or long lesion) were noted. Correlation and multiple linear regression tests were performed using these clinical scores. Pain was found to be correlated strongly with quality of life in both groups but only correlated with disability in the AQP4-Ab +ve group. PCS, HADS and EDMUS were found to be highly correlated with pain severity using partial correlation, however, a stronger relationship between pain severity and PCS was found in the AQP4-Ab -ve group. Multiple regression analysis showed that pain severity was the most important factor for quality of life but not disability or anxiety and depression symptoms in the whole patient group. We confirm that pain is an important symptom of transverse myelitis and has more influence on quality of life than disability despite health services being predominantly focused on the latter. There may be different factors associated with pain between AQP4-Ab +ve and -ve patients. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  20. The assessment of facial variation in 4747 British school children.

    PubMed

    Toma, Arshed M; Zhurov, Alexei I; Playle, Rebecca; Marshall, David; Rosin, Paul L; Richmond, Stephen

    2012-12-01

    The aim of this study is to identify key components contributing to facial variation in a large population-based sample of 15.5-year-old children (2514 females and 2233 males). The subjects were recruited from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children. Three-dimensional facial images were obtained for each subject using two high-resolution Konica Minolta laser scanners. Twenty-one reproducible facial landmarks were identified and their coordinates were recorded. The facial images were registered using Procrustes analysis. Principal component analysis was then employed to identify independent groups of correlated coordinates. For the total data set, 14 principal components (PCs) were identified which explained 82 per cent of the total variance, with the first three components accounting for 46 per cent of the variance. Similar results were obtained for males and females separately with only subtle gender differences in some PCs. Facial features may be treated as a multidimensional statistical continuum with respect to the PCs. The first three PCs characterize the face in terms of height, width, and prominence of the nose. The derived PCs may be useful to identify and classify faces according to a scale of normality.

  1. Asymmetric SOL Current in Vertically Displaced Plasma

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cabrera, J. D.; Navratil, G. A.; Hanson, J. M.

    2017-10-01

    Experiments at the DIII-D tokamak demonstrate a non-monotonic relationship between measured scrape-off layer (SOL) currents and vertical displacement event (VDE) rates with SOL currents becoming largely n=1 dominant as plasma is displaced by the plasma control system (PCS) at faster rates. The DIII-D PCS is used to displace the magnetic axis 10x slower than the intrinsic growth time of similar instabilities in lower single-null plasmas. Low order (n <=2) mode decomposition is done on toroidally spaced current monitors to attain measures of asymmetry in SOL current. Normalized to peak n=0 response, a 2-4x increase is seen in peak n=1 response in plasmas displaced by the PCS versus previous VDE instabilities observed when vertical control is disabled. Previous inquiry shows VDE asymmetry characterized by SOL current fraction and geometric parameters of tokamak plasmas. We note that, of plasmas displaced by the PCS, short displacement time scales near the limit of the PCS temporal control appear to result in larger n=1/n=2 asymmetries. Work supported under USDOE Cooperative Agreement DE-FC02-04ER54698 and DE-FG02-04ER54761.

  2. Effect of axial ligation and delivery system on the tumour-localising and -photosensitising properties of Ge(IV)-octabutoxy-phthalocyanines.

    PubMed Central

    Soncin, M.; Polo, L.; Reddi, E.; Jori, G.; Kenney, M. E.; Cheng, G.; Rodgers, M. A.

    1995-01-01

    Four Ge(IV)-octabutoxy-phthalocyanines (GePcs) bearing two alkyl-type axial ligands were assayed for their pharmacokinetic properties and phototherapeutic efficiency in Balb/c mice bearing an intramuscularly transplanted MS-2 fibrosarcoma. The GePcs were i.v. injected at a dose of 0.35 mumol kg-1 body weight after incorporation into either Cremophor emulsions or small unilamellar liposomes of dipalmitoyl-phosphatidylcholine (DPPC). Both the nature of the delivery system and the chemical structure of the phthalocyanine were found to affect the behaviour of the GePcs in vivo. Thus, Cremophor-administered GePcs invariably yielded a more prolonged serum retention and a larger association with low-density lipoproteins (LDLs) as compared with the corresponding liposome-delivered phthalocyanines. This led to a greater efficiency and selectivity of tumour targeting. These effects were more pronounced for those GePcs having relatively long alkyl chains (hexyl to decyl) in the axial ligands. Maximal tumour accumulation (0.67 nmol per g of tissue) was found for Ge-Pc(hexyl)2 at 24 h after injection. Consistently, the Ge-Pc(hexyl)2, administered via Cremophor, showed the highest phototherapeutic activity towards MS-2 fibrosarcoma. PMID:7710936

  3. Study of the interrelation between the electrotechnical parameters of the plasma focus discharge circuit and the plasma compression dynamics on the PF-3 and PF-1000 facilities

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

    Mitrofanov, K. N., E-mail: mitrkn@inbox.ru; Krauz, V. I., E-mail: krauz-vi@nrcki.ru, E-mail: vkrauz@yandex.ru; Grabovski, E. V.

    The main stages of the plasma current sheath (PCS) dynamics on two plasma focus (PF) facilities with different geometries of the electrode system, PF-3 (Filippov type) and PF-1000 (Mather type), were studied by analyzing the results of the current and voltage measurements. Some dynamic characteristics, such as the PCS velocity in the acceleration phase in the Mather-type facility (PF-1000), the moment at which the PCS reaches the anode end, and the plasma velocity in the radial stage of plasma compression in the PF-3 Filippov-type facility, were determined from the time dependence of the inductance of the discharge circuit with amore » dynamic plasma load. The energy characteristics of the discharge circuit of the compressing PCS were studied for different working gases (deuterium, argon, and neon) at initial pressures of 1.5–3 Torr in discharges with energies of 0.3–0.6 MJ. In experiments with deuterium, correlation between the neutron yield and the electromagnetic energy deposited directly in the compressed PCS was investigated.« less

  4. Attitude-referenced radiometer study. Part 2: Primary calibration system

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Williamson, W. R.; Otte, A. A.

    1971-01-01

    A primary calibration system, PCS, for infrared radiometers has been developed, built, and tested. The system allows radiometers to be calibrated with less than 1 percent error for use in earth coverage horizon measurements, earth resources surveys, and synoptic meteorological measurement. The final design, fabrication and test of the PCS are reported. A detailed description of the PCS construction is presented, along with the results of a complete series of functional tests. Test to verify the source thermal characteristics, collimator reflectance, and output beam characteristics are described and their results presented.

  5. Utility-interactive photovoltaic power conditioners - Effects of transformerless design and dc injection

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Das, R.; Krauthamer, S.; Klein, J.

    It is shown that the use of isolation transformers to eliminate dc injection into the utility in utility-interactive photovoltaic (PV) systems can reduce the overall efficiency of the system. In order to improve PV efficiency, a transformerless power conditioning subsystem (PCS) is proposed for a grounded PV array having two and three connections to a utility. An additional transformerless PCS configuration is proposed for an ungrounded PV array. A detailed schematic drawing of the interconnections between the elements of a transformerless PCS is provided.

  6. Tabulations of Responses from the 2000 Survey of Reserve Component Personnel: Volume 5. Civilian Work, Economic Issues, Full-Time Active Duty National Guard/Reserve, and Military Life

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2002-08-01

    duty program (XPROG = 1, 4, or 5). Female 6 PCS moves 7 PCS moves 8 PCS moves Total Enlisted Personnel Commissioned Officers Table 172.3 Title 10 ... 10 months to 12 months 7 months to less than 10 months 5 months to...data were used to resolve conflicts between answers, to fill in missing survey data, and to determine if an AGR/TAR/AR was Title 10 or Title 32. Data

  7. Terahertz frequency superconductor-nanocomposite photonic band gap

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Elsayed, Hussein A.; Aly, Arafa H.

    2018-02-01

    In the present work, we discuss the transmittance properties of one-dimensional (1D) superconductor nanocomposite photonic crystals (PCs) in THz frequency regions. Our modeling is essentially based on the two-fluid model, Maxwell-Garnett model and the characteristic matrix method. The numerical results investigate the appearance of the so-called cutoff frequency. We have obtained the significant effect of some parameters such as the volume fraction, the permittivity of the host material, the size of the nanoparticles and the permittivity of the superconductor material on the properties of the cutoff frequency. The present results may be useful in the optical communications and photonic applications to act as tunable antenna in THz, reflectors and high-pass filter.

  8. Comparative Analysis of Online Health Queries Originating From Personal Computers and Smart Devices on a Consumer Health Information Portal

    PubMed Central

    Jadhav, Ashutosh; Andrews, Donna; Fiksdal, Alexander; Kumbamu, Ashok; McCormick, Jennifer B; Misitano, Andrew; Nelsen, Laurie; Ryu, Euijung; Sheth, Amit; Wu, Stephen

    2014-01-01

    Background The number of people using the Internet and mobile/smart devices for health information seeking is increasing rapidly. Although the user experience for online health information seeking varies with the device used, for example, smart devices (SDs) like smartphones/tablets versus personal computers (PCs) like desktops/laptops, very few studies have investigated how online health information seeking behavior (OHISB) may differ by device. Objective The objective of this study is to examine differences in OHISB between PCs and SDs through a comparative analysis of large-scale health search queries submitted through Web search engines from both types of devices. Methods Using the Web analytics tool, IBM NetInsight OnDemand, and based on the type of devices used (PCs or SDs), we obtained the most frequent health search queries between June 2011 and May 2013 that were submitted on Web search engines and directed users to the Mayo Clinic’s consumer health information website. We performed analyses on “Queries with considering repetition counts (QwR)” and “Queries without considering repetition counts (QwoR)”. The dataset contains (1) 2.74 million and 3.94 million QwoR, respectively for PCs and SDs, and (2) more than 100 million QwR for both PCs and SDs. We analyzed structural properties of the queries (length of the search queries, usage of query operators and special characters in health queries), types of search queries (keyword-based, wh-questions, yes/no questions), categorization of the queries based on health categories and information mentioned in the queries (gender, age-groups, temporal references), misspellings in the health queries, and the linguistic structure of the health queries. Results Query strings used for health information searching via PCs and SDs differ by almost 50%. The most searched health categories are “Symptoms” (1 in 3 search queries), “Causes”, and “Treatments & Drugs”. The distribution of search queries for different health categories differs with the device used for the search. Health queries tend to be longer and more specific than general search queries. Health queries from SDs are longer and have slightly fewer spelling mistakes than those from PCs. Users specify words related to women and children more often than that of men and any other age group. Most of the health queries are formulated using keywords; the second-most common are wh- and yes/no questions. Users ask more health questions using SDs than PCs. Almost all health queries have at least one noun and health queries from SDs are more descriptive than those from PCs. Conclusions This study is a large-scale comparative analysis of health search queries to understand the effects of device type (PCs vs SDs) used on OHISB. The study indicates that the device used for online health information search plays an important role in shaping how health information searches by consumers and patients are executed. PMID:25000537

  9. Comparative analysis of online health queries originating from personal computers and smart devices on a consumer health information portal.

    PubMed

    Jadhav, Ashutosh; Andrews, Donna; Fiksdal, Alexander; Kumbamu, Ashok; McCormick, Jennifer B; Misitano, Andrew; Nelsen, Laurie; Ryu, Euijung; Sheth, Amit; Wu, Stephen; Pathak, Jyotishman

    2014-07-04

    The number of people using the Internet and mobile/smart devices for health information seeking is increasing rapidly. Although the user experience for online health information seeking varies with the device used, for example, smart devices (SDs) like smartphones/tablets versus personal computers (PCs) like desktops/laptops, very few studies have investigated how online health information seeking behavior (OHISB) may differ by device. The objective of this study is to examine differences in OHISB between PCs and SDs through a comparative analysis of large-scale health search queries submitted through Web search engines from both types of devices. Using the Web analytics tool, IBM NetInsight OnDemand, and based on the type of devices used (PCs or SDs), we obtained the most frequent health search queries between June 2011 and May 2013 that were submitted on Web search engines and directed users to the Mayo Clinic's consumer health information website. We performed analyses on "Queries with considering repetition counts (QwR)" and "Queries without considering repetition counts (QwoR)". The dataset contains (1) 2.74 million and 3.94 million QwoR, respectively for PCs and SDs, and (2) more than 100 million QwR for both PCs and SDs. We analyzed structural properties of the queries (length of the search queries, usage of query operators and special characters in health queries), types of search queries (keyword-based, wh-questions, yes/no questions), categorization of the queries based on health categories and information mentioned in the queries (gender, age-groups, temporal references), misspellings in the health queries, and the linguistic structure of the health queries. Query strings used for health information searching via PCs and SDs differ by almost 50%. The most searched health categories are "Symptoms" (1 in 3 search queries), "Causes", and "Treatments & Drugs". The distribution of search queries for different health categories differs with the device used for the search. Health queries tend to be longer and more specific than general search queries. Health queries from SDs are longer and have slightly fewer spelling mistakes than those from PCs. Users specify words related to women and children more often than that of men and any other age group. Most of the health queries are formulated using keywords; the second-most common are wh- and yes/no questions. Users ask more health questions using SDs than PCs. Almost all health queries have at least one noun and health queries from SDs are more descriptive than those from PCs. This study is a large-scale comparative analysis of health search queries to understand the effects of device type (PCs vs. SDs) used on OHISB. The study indicates that the device used for online health information search plays an important role in shaping how health information searches by consumers and patients are executed.

  10. Structural Insights into Cargo Recognition by the Yeast PTS1 Receptor*

    PubMed Central

    Hagen, Stefanie; Drepper, Friedel; Fischer, Sven; Fodor, Krisztian; Passon, Daniel; Platta, Harald W.; Zenn, Michael; Schliebs, Wolfgang; Girzalsky, Wolfgang; Wilmanns, Matthias; Warscheid, Bettina; Erdmann, Ralf

    2015-01-01

    The peroxisomal matrix protein import is facilitated by cycling import receptors that shuttle between the cytosol and the peroxisomal membrane. The import receptor Pex5p mediates the import of proteins harboring a peroxisomal targeting signal of type I (PTS1). Purified recombinant Pex5p forms a dimeric complex with the PTS1-protein Pcs60p in vitro with a KD of 0.19 μm. To analyze the structural basis for receptor-cargo recognition, the PTS1 and adjacent amino acids of Pcs60p were systematically scanned for Pex5p binding by an in vitro site-directed photo-cross-linking approach. The cross-linked binding regions of the receptor were subsequently identified by high resolution mass spectrometry. Most cross-links were found with TPR6, TPR7, as well as the 7C-loop of Pex5p. Surface plasmon resonance analysis revealed a bivalent interaction mode for Pex5p and Pcs60p. Interestingly, Pcs60p lacking its C-terminal tripeptide sequence was efficiently cross-linked to the same regions of Pex5p. The KD value of the interaction of truncated Pcs60p and Pex5p was in the range of 7.7 μm. Isothermal titration calorimetry and surface plasmon resonance measurements revealed a monovalent binding mode for the interaction of Pex5p and Pcs60p lacking the PTS1. Our data indicate that Pcs60p contains a second contact site for its receptor Pex5p, beyond the C-terminal tripeptide. The physiological relevance of the ancillary binding region was supported by in vivo import studies. The bivalent binding mode might be explained by a two-step concept as follows: first, cargo recognition and initial tethering by the PTS1-receptor Pex5p; second, lock-in of receptor and cargo. PMID:26359497

  11. Brain magnetic resonance imaging CO2 stress testing in adolescent postconcussion syndrome.

    PubMed

    Mutch, W Alan C; Ellis, Michael J; Ryner, Lawrence N; Ruth Graham, M; Dufault, Brenden; Gregson, Brian; Hall, Thomas; Bunge, Martin; Essig, Marco; Fisher, Joseph A; Duffin, James; Mikulis, David J

    2016-09-01

    OBJECT A neuroimaging assessment tool to visualize global and regional impairments in cerebral blood flow (CBF) and cerebrovascular responsiveness in individual patients with concussion remains elusive. Here the authors summarize the safety, feasibility, and results of brain CO2 stress testing in adolescents with postconcussion syndrome (PCS) and healthy controls. METHODS This study was approved by the Biomedical Research Ethics Board at the University of Manitoba. Fifteen adolescents with PCS and 17 healthy control subjects underwent anatomical MRI, pseudo-continuous arterial spin labeling MRI, and brain stress testing using controlled CO2 challenge and blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) MRI. Post hoc processing was performed using statistical parametric mapping to determine voxel-by-voxel regional resting CBF and cerebrovascular responsiveness of the brain to the CO2 stimulus (increase in BOLD signal) or the inverse (decrease in BOLD signal). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were generated to compare voxel counts categorized by control (0) or PCS (1). RESULTS Studies were well tolerated without any serious adverse events. Anatomical MRI was normal in all study participants. No differences in CO2 stimuli were seen between the 2 participant groups. No group differences in global mean CBF were detected between PCS patients and healthy controls. Patient-specific differences in mean regional CBF and CO2 BOLD responsiveness were observed in all PCS patients. The ROC curve analysis for brain regions manifesting a voxel response greater than and less than the control atlas (that is, abnormal voxel counts) produced an area under the curve of 0.87 (p < 0.0001) and 0.80 (p = 0.0003), respectively, consistent with a clinically useful predictive model. CONCLUSIONS Adolescent PCS is associated with patient-specific abnormalities in regional mean CBF and BOLD cerebrovascular responsiveness that occur in the setting of normal global resting CBF. Future prospective studies are warranted to examine the utility of brain MRI CO2 stress testing in the longitudinal assessment of acute sports-related concussion and PCS.

  12. Pharmacological chaperoning: a primer on mechanism and pharmacology.

    PubMed

    Leidenheimer, Nancy J; Ryder, Katelyn G

    2014-05-01

    Approximately forty percent of diseases are attributable to protein misfolding, including those for which genetic mutation produces misfolding mutants. Intriguingly, many of these mutants are not terminally misfolded since native-like folding, and subsequent trafficking to functional locations, can be induced by target-specific, small molecules variably termed pharmacological chaperones, pharmacoperones, or pharmacochaperones (PCs). PC targets include enzymes, receptors, transporters, and ion channels, revealing the breadth of proteins that can be engaged by ligand-assisted folding. The purpose of this review is to provide an integrated primer of the diverse mechanisms and pharmacology of PCs. In this regard, we examine the structural mechanisms that underlie PC rescue of misfolding mutants, including the ability of PCs to act as surrogates for defective intramolecular interactions and, at the intermolecular level, overcome oligomerization deficiencies and dominant negative effects, as well as influence the subunit stoichiometry of heteropentameric receptors. Not surprisingly, PC-mediated structural correction of misfolding mutants normalizes interactions with molecular chaperones that participate in protein quality control and forward-trafficking. A variety of small molecules have proven to be efficacious PCs and the advantages and disadvantages of employing orthostatic antagonists, active-site inhibitors, orthostatic agonists, and allosteric modulator PCs are considered. Also examined is the possibility that several therapeutic agents may have unrecognized activity as PCs, and this chaperoning activity may mediate/contribute to therapeutic action and/or account for adverse effects. Lastly, we explore evidence that pharmacological chaperoning exploits intrinsic ligand-assisted folding mechanisms. Given the widespread applicability of PC rescue of mutants associated with protein folding disorders, both in vitro and in vivo, the therapeutic potential of PCs is vast. This is most evident in the treatment of lysosomal storage disorders, cystic fibrosis, and nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, for which proof of principle in humans has been demonstrated. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  13. Neural signature of tDCS, tPCS and their combination: Comparing the effects on neural plasticity

    PubMed Central

    Thibaut, Aurore; Russo, Cristina; Morales-Quezada, Leon; Hurtado-Puerto, Aura; Deitos, Alícia; Freedman, Steven; Carvalho, Sandra; Fregni, Felipe

    2017-01-01

    Transcranial pulsed current stimulation (tPCS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) are two noninvasive neuromodulatory brain stimulation techniques whose effects on human brain and behavior have been studied individually. In the present study we aimed to quantify the effects of tDCS and tPCS, individually and in combination, on cortical activity, sensitivity and pain-related assessments in healthy individuals in order to understand their neurophysiological mechanisms and potential applications in clinical populations. A total of 48 healthy individuals participated in this randomized double blind sham controlled study. Participants were randomized to receive a single stimulation session of either: active or sham tPCS and active or sham tDCS. Quantitative electroencephalography (qEEG), sensitivity and pain assessments were used before and after each stimulation session. We observed that tPCS had a higher effect on power, as compared to tDCS, in several bandwidths on various cortical regions: the theta band in the parietal region (p = 0.021), the alpha band in the temporal (p = 0.009), parietal (p = 0.0063), and occipital (p < 0.0001) regions. We found that the combination of tPCS and tDCS significantly decreased power in the low beta bandwidth of the frontal (p = 0.0006), central (p = 0.0001), and occipital (p = 0.0003) regions, when compared to sham stimulation. Additionally, tDCS significantly increased power in high beta over the temporal (p = 0.0015) and parietal (p = 0.0007) regions, as compared to sham. We found no effect on sensitivity or pain-related assessments. We concluded that tPCS and tDCS have different neurophysiological mechanisms, elicit distinct signatures, and that the combination of the two leads to no effect or a decrease on qEEG power. Further studies are required to examine the effects of these techniques on clinical populations in which EEG signatures have been found altered. PMID:27765610

  14. Association of symptoms following mild traumatic brain injury with posttraumatic stress disorder vs. postconcussion syndrome.

    PubMed

    Lagarde, Emmanuel; Salmi, Louis-Rachid; Holm, Lena W; Contrand, Benjamin; Masson, Françoise; Ribéreau-Gayon, Régis; Laborey, Magali; Cassidy, J David

    2014-09-01

    A proportion of patients experience long-lasting symptoms following mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI). The postconcussion syndrome (PCS), included in the DSM-IV, has been proposed to describe this condition. Because these symptoms are subjective and common to other conditions, there is controversy whether PCS deserves to be identified as a diagnostic syndrome. To assess whether persistent symptoms 3 months following head injury are specific to MTBI or whether they are better described as part of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). We conducted a prospective cohort study of injured patients recruited at the adult emergency department of the University Hospital of Bordeaux from December 4, 2007, to February 25, 2009. At 3-month follow-up, we compared the prevalence and risk factors for PCS and PTSD. Multiple correspondence analyses were used to assess clustering of symptoms and their associations with the type of injury. We included 534 patients with head injury and 827 control patients with other nonhead injuries. Three months following the trauma, 21.2% of head-injured and 16.3% of nonhead-injured patients fulfilled the DSM-IV diagnosis of PCS; 8.8% of head-injured patients fulfilled the diagnostic criteria for PTSD compared with 2.2% of control patients. In multivariate analysis, MTBI was a predictor of PTSD (odds ratio, 4.47; 95% CI, 2.38-8.40) but not of PCS (odds ratio, 1.13; 95% CI, 0.82-1.55). Correspondence analysis suggested that symptoms considered part of PCS behave similarly to PTSD symptoms in the hyperarousal dimension. None of these 22 symptoms showed any pattern of clustering, and no clear proximity with head or nonhead injury status could be found. Persistent subjective symptoms frequently reported 3 months after MTBI are not specific enough to be identified as a unique PCS and should be considered part of the hyperarousal dimension of PTSD.

  15. 47 CFR 24.239 - Cost-sharing requirements for broadband PCS.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-10-01

    ... interference to the existing FMS operations would occur. All PCS entities who benefit from spectrum clearance... spectrum leasing arrangement (as set forth in part 1, subpart X of this chapter) and the spectrum lessee...

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

    Arham, H. Z.; Hunt, C. R.; Park, W. K.

    We use point-contact spectroscopy (PCS) to probe AEFe 2As 2 (AE=Ca,Sr,Ba) and Fe 1+yTe. For AE=Sr,Ba we detect orbital fluctuations above TS while for AE=Ca these fluctuations start below T S. Co doping preserves the orbital fluctuations while K doping suppresses it. The fluctuations are only seen at those dopings and temperatures where an in-plane resistive anisotropy is known to exist. We predict an in-plane resistive anisotropy of Fe 1+yTe above T S. Our data are examined in light of the recent work by Lee and Phillips (arXiv:1110.5917v2). We also study how joule heating in the PCS junctions impacts themore » spectra. Spectroscopic information is only obtained from those PCS junctions that are free of heating effects while those PCS junctions that are in the thermal regime display bulk resistivity phenomena.« less

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

    Arham, H.Z.; Hunt, C.R.; Park, W.K.

    We use point-contact spectroscopy (PCS) to probe AEFe2As2 (AE=Ca, Sr, Ba) and Fe1+yTe. For AE=Sr,Ba we detect orbital fluctuations above TS while for AE=Ca these fluctuations start below TS. Co doping preserves the orbital fluctuations while K doping suppresses it. The fluctuations are only seen at those dopings and temperatures where an in-plane resistive anisotropy is known to exist. We predict an in-plane resistive anisotropy of Fe1+yTe above TS. Our data are examined in light of the recent work by Lee and Phillips (arXiv:1110.5917v2). We also study how joule heating in the PCS junctions impacts the spectra. Spectroscopic information ismore » only obtained from those PCS junctions that are free of heating effects while those PCS junctions that are in the thermal regime display bulk resistivity phenomena.« less

  18. Computational study of the structure-free radical scavenging relationship of procyanidins.

    PubMed

    Mendoza-Wilson, Ana María; Castro-Arredondo, Sergio Ivan; Balandrán-Quintana, René Renato

    2014-10-15

    Procyanidins (PCs) are effective free radical scavengers, however, their antioxidant ability is variable because they have different degrees of polymerisation, are composed by distinct types of subunits and are very susceptible to changes in conformation. In this work the structure-free radical scavenging relationship of monomers, dimers and trimers of PCs was studied through the hydrogen atom transfer (HAT), sequential proton-loss electron-transfer (SPLET) and single electron transfer followed by proton transfer (SET-PT) mechanisms in aqueous phase, employing the Density Functional Theory (DFT) computational method. The structure-free radical scavenging relationship of PCs showed a very similar behaviour in HAT and SET-PT mechanisms, but very different in the SPLET mechanism. The structural factor that showed more effects on the ability of PCs to scavenge free radicals in aqueous phase was the conformation. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  19. Antioxidant capacity of phenolic compounds on human cell lines as affected by grape-tyrosinase and Botrytis-laccase oxidation.

    PubMed

    Riebel, Matthias; Sabel, Andrea; Claus, Harald; Xia, Ning; Li, Huige; König, Helmut; Decker, Heinz; Fronk, Petra

    2017-08-15

    Phenolic components (PCs) are well-known for their positive impact on human health. In addition to their action as radical scavengers, they act as activators for the intrinsic cellular antioxidant system. Polyphenol oxidases (PPOs) such as tyrosinase and laccase catalyze the enzymatic oxidation of PCs and thus, can alter their scavenging and antioxidative capacity. In this study, oxidation by tryosinase was shown to increase the antioxidant capacity of many PCs, especially those that lack adjacent aromatic hydroxyl groups. In contrast, oxidation by laccase tended to decrease the antioxidant capacity of red wine and distinct PCs. This was clearly demonstrated for p-coumaric acid and resveratrol, which is associated with many health benefits. While oxidation by tyrosinase increased their antioxidant activity laccase treatment resulted in a decreased activity and also of that for red wines. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  20. Enhanced Toxic Metal Accumulation in Engineered Bacterial Cells Expressing Arabidopsis thaliana Phytochelatin Synthase

    PubMed Central

    Sauge-Merle, Sandrine; Cuiné, Stéphan; Carrier, Patrick; Lecomte-Pradines, Catherine; Luu, Doan-Trung; Peltier, Gilles

    2003-01-01

    Phytochelatins (PCs) are metal-binding cysteine-rich peptides, enzymatically synthesized in plants and yeasts from glutathione in response to heavy metal stress by PC synthase (EC 2.3.2.15). In an attempt to increase the ability of bacterial cells to accumulate heavy metals, the Arabidopsis thaliana gene encoding PC synthase (AtPCS) was expressed in Escherichia coli. A marked accumulation of PCs was observed in vivo together with a decrease in the glutathione cellular content. When bacterial cells expressing AtPCS were placed in the presence of heavy metals such as cadmium or the metalloid arsenic, cellular metal contents were increased 20- and 50-fold, respectively. We discuss the possibility of using genes of the PC biosynthetic pathway to design bacterial strains or higher plants with increased abilities to accumulate toxic metals, and also arsenic, for use in bioremediation and/or phytoremediation processes. PMID:12514032

  1. Distributor- Retailer Interface in Pharmaceutical Supply Chain: Service Quality Measurement Scale.

    PubMed

    Mehralian, Gholamhossein; Babapour, Jafar; Peiravian, Farzad

    2016-01-01

    In the current competitive market, service quality management is the key to the survival and success of businesses. SERVQUAL is a popular service quality measurement scale (SQMS) that has served as a basis for subsequent research on service quality; it has been used for testing different aspects of service quality in a market. The purpose of our study is, therefore, to develop a service quality measurement scale (SQMS) for the distributor-retailer interface of Pharm supply chains (PSC) in Iran. A survey was performed to collect data from pharmacies located in Tehran. A valid and reliable questionnaire delivered to pharmacies, and 400 pharmacies were intended to participate in our survey. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to develop an SQMS in this study. Sufficient sampling was undertaken to do CFA. Consistent with other service quality studies, this Res developed an SQMS with five dimensions and 20 items for PSC, and contributes to mangers to regularly measure service quality. This is an initial study to develop a framework for measuring service quality in Iranian PCS. The framework can be used effectively to achieve competitive advantage at the distributor-retailer interface.

  2. Distributor– Retailer Interface in Pharmaceutical Supply Chain: Service Quality Measurement Scale

    PubMed Central

    Mehralian, Gholamhossein; Babapour, Jafar; peiravian, farzad

    2016-01-01

    In the current competitive market, service quality management is the key to the survival and success of businesses. SERVQUAL is a popular service quality measurement scale (SQMS) that has served as a basis for subsequent research on service quality; it has been used for testing different aspects of service quality in a market. The purpose of our study is, therefore, to develop a service quality measurement scale (SQMS) for the distributor–retailer interface of Pharm supply chains (PSC) in Iran. A survey was performed to collect data from pharmacies located in Tehran. A valid and reliable questionnaire delivered to pharmacies, and 400 pharmacies were intended to participate in our survey. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to develop an SQMS in this study. Sufficient sampling was undertaken to do CFA. Consistent with other service quality studies, this Res developed an SQMS with five dimensions and 20 items for PSC, and contributes to mangers to regularly measure service quality. This is an initial study to develop a framework for measuring service quality in Iranian PCS. The framework can be used effectively to achieve competitive advantage at the distributor–retailer interface. PMID:28243297

  3. Phytochelatin Synthesis Promotes Leaf Zn Accumulation of Arabidopsis thaliana Plants Grown in Soil with Adequate Zn Supply and is Essential for Survival on Zn-Contaminated Soil.

    PubMed

    Kühnlenz, Tanja; Hofmann, Christian; Uraguchi, Shimpei; Schmidt, Holger; Schempp, Stefanie; Weber, Michael; Lahner, Brett; Salt, David E; Clemens, Stephan

    2016-11-01

    Phytochelatin (PC) synthesis is essential for the detoxification of non-essential metals such as cadmium (Cd). In vitro experiments with Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings had indicated a contribution to zinc (Zn) tolerance as well. We addressed the physiological role of PC synthesis in Zn homeostasis of plants under more natural conditions. Growth responses, PC accumulation and leaf ionomes of wild-type and AtPCS1 mutant plants cultivated in different soils representing adequate Zn supply, Zn deficiency and Zn excess were analyzed. Growth on Zn-contaminated soil triggers PC synthesis and is strongly impaired in PC-deficient mutants. In fact, the contribution of AtPCS1 to tolerating Zn excess is comparable with that of the major Zn tolerance factor MTP1. For plants supplied with a normal level of Zn, a significant reduction in leaf Zn accumulation of AtPCS1 mutants was detected. In contrast, AtPCS1 mutants grown under Zn-limited conditions showed wild-type levels of Zn accumulation, suggesting the operation of distinct Zn translocation pathways. Contrasting phenotypes of the tested AtPCS1 mutant alleles upon growth in Zn- or Cd-contaminated soil indicated differential activation of PC synthesis by these metals. Experiments with truncated versions identified a part of the AtPCS1 protein required for the activation by Zn but not by Cd. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Japanese Society of Plant Physiologists. All rights reserved. For permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

  4. The increase of cell-membranous phosphatidylcholines containing polyunsaturated fatty acid residues induces phosphorylation of p53 through activation of ATR

    PubMed Central

    Zhang, Xu Hannah; Zhao, Chunying; Ma, Zhongmin Alex

    2010-01-01

    Summary The G1 phase of the cell cycle is marked by the rapid turnover of phospholipids. This turnover is regulated by CTP:phosphocholine-cytidylyltransferase (CCT) and group VIA Ca2+-independent-phospholipase A2 (iPLA2). We previously reported that inhibition of iPLA2 arrests cells in G1 phase of the cell cycle by activating the p53-p21 checkpoint. Here we further characterize the mechanism of p53 activation. We show that specific inhibition of iPLA2 induces a time dependent phosphorylation of Ser15 in p53 in the absence of DNA damage. This phosphorylation requires the kinase ataxia-telangiectasia and Rad-3-related (ATR) but not the ataxia-telangiectasia-mutated (ATM) kinase. Moreover, we identify in cell membranes a significant increase of phosphatidylcholines (PCs) containing chains of polyunsaturated fatty acids and a decrease of PCs containing saturated fatty acids in response to inhibition of iPLA2. The time course of phosphorylation of Ser15 in p53 correlates with increasing levels of PCs containing polyunsaturated fatty acids. We further demonstrate that the PCs with linoleic acid in their sn-2 position (18:2n6) induce phosphorylation of Ser15 in p53 in an ATR-dependent manner. Our findings establish that cells can regulate the levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids in phospholipids through iPLA2-mediated deacylation of PCs. Disruption of this regulation increases the proportions of PCs containing polyunsaturated fatty acids and activates the ATR-p53 signalling pathway. PMID:18032786

  5. The increase of cell-membranous phosphatidylcholines containing polyunsaturated fatty acid residues induces phosphorylation of p53 through activation of ATR.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Xu Hannah; Zhao, Chunying; Ma, Zhongmin Alex

    2007-12-01

    The G1 phase of the cell cycle is marked by the rapid turnover of phospholipids. This turnover is regulated by CTP:phosphocholine-cytidylyltransferase (CCT) and group VIA Ca(2+)-independent-phospholipase A(2) (iPLA(2)). We previously reported that inhibition of iPLA(2) arrests cells in G1 phase of the cell cycle by activating the p53-p21 checkpoint. Here we further characterize the mechanism of p53 activation. We show that specific inhibition of iPLA(2) induces a time dependent phosphorylation of Ser15 in p53 in the absence of DNA damage. This phosphorylation requires the kinase ataxia-telangiectasia and Rad-3-related (ATR) but not the ataxia-telangiectasia-mutated (ATM) kinase. Moreover, we identify in cell membranes a significant increase of phosphatidylcholines (PCs) containing chains of polyunsaturated fatty acids and a decrease of PCs containing saturated fatty acids in response to inhibition of iPLA(2). The time course of phosphorylation of Ser15 in p53 correlates with increasing levels of PCs containing polyunsaturated fatty acids. We further demonstrate that the PCs with linoleic acid in their sn-2 position (18:2n6) induce phosphorylation of Ser15 in p53 in an ATR-dependent manner. Our findings establish that cells can regulate the levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids in phospholipids through iPLA(2)-mediated deacylation of PCs. Disruption of this regulation increases the proportions of PCs containing polyunsaturated fatty acids and activates the ATR-p53 signalling pathway.

  6. Succinate dehydrogenase subunit D and succinate dehydrogenase subunit B mutation analysis in canine phaeochromocytoma and paraganglioma.

    PubMed

    Holt, D E; Henthorn, P; Howell, V M; Robinson, B G; Benn, D E

    2014-07-01

    Phaeochromocytomas (PCs) are tumours of the adrenal medulla chromaffin cells. Paragangliomas (PGLs) arise in sympathetic ganglia (previously called extra-adrenal PCs) or in non-chromaffin parasympathetic ganglia cells that are usually non-secretory. Parenchymal cells from these tumours have a common embryological origin from neural crest ectoderm. Several case series of canine PCs and PGLs have been published and a link between the increased incidence of chemoreceptor neoplasia in brachycephalic dog breeds and chronic hypoxia has been postulated. A similar link to hypoxia in man led to the identification of germline heterozygous mutations in the gene encoding succinate dehydrogenase subunit D (SDHD) and subsequently SDHA, SDHB and SDHC in similar tumours. We investigated canine PCs (n = 6) and PGLs (n = 2) for SDHD and SDHB mutations and in one PGL found a somatic SDHD mutation c.365A>G (p.Lys122Arg) in exon 4, which was not present in normal tissue from this brachycephalic dog. Two PCs were heterozygous for both c.365A>G (p.Lys122Arg) mutation and an exon 3 silent variant c.291G>A. We also identified the heterozygous SDHB exon 2 mutation c.113G>A (p.Arg38Gln) in a PC. These results illustrate that genetic mutations may underlie tumourigenesis in canine PCs and PGLs. The spontaneous nature of these canine diseases and possible association of PGLs with hypoxia in brachycephalic breeds may make them an attractive model for studying the corresponding human tumours. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  7. Additive solutions differentially affect metabolic and functional parameters of platelet concentrates.

    PubMed

    Leitner, G C; List, J; Horvath, M; Eichelberger, B; Panzer, S; Jilma-Stohlawetz, P

    2016-01-01

    Pathogen inactivation (PI) of platelet concentrates with extension of shelf life to 7 days requires the use of platelet additive solutions (PAS). We examined the quality of platelets resuspended in three different PAS stored for up to 7 days. Twelve triple adult dose platelet concentrates (PC) were collected using the TrimaAccel® collection system. Each highly concentrated product was divided into three equal parts, and the additive solutions (Composol® or SSP+® or Intersol™) were added to a final concentration of 56% PAS and 44% plasma. Samples were drawn on days 1, 5 and 7 to measure pH, glucose, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), lactate, mean platelet volume (MPV) and the aggregation response to collagen and the thrombin receptor agonist peptide-6. Further, p-selectin expression on platelets was assessed. No statistically significant changes were observed for pH and MPV during 7 days of storage in all PAS containing PCs, whereas glucose decreased and LDH and lactate increased over time (P < 0·05). These changes were particularly evident in Intersol PCs on days 5 and 7 compared with Composol® PCs or SSP+® PCs (P < 0·05). Platelets from Intersol PCs exhibited the highest baseline activation of p-selectin and showed reduced collagen- and TRAP-6-induced aggregation. Resuspension of platelets in Intersol for 7 days results in increased platelet activation and platelet metabolism compared with SSP+® or Composol®. Further clinical studies are needed to evaluate whether the observed differences in PAS-PCs affect the recovery rate or the life span of transfused platelets. © 2015 International Society of Blood Transfusion.

  8. A novel personal cooling system (PCS) incorporated with phase change materials (PCMs) and ventilation fans: An investigation on its cooling efficiency.

    PubMed

    Lu, Yehu; Wei, Fanru; Lai, Dandan; Shi, Wen; Wang, Faming; Gao, Chuansi; Song, Guowen

    2015-08-01

    Personal cooling systems (PCS) have been developed to mitigate the impact of severe heat stress for humans working in hot environments. It is still a great challenge to develop PCSs that are portable, inexpensive, and effective. We studied the performance of a new hybrid PCS incorporating both ventilation fans and phase change materials (PCMs). The cooling efficiency of the newly developed PCS was investigated on a sweating manikin in two hot conditions: hot humid (HH, 34°C, 75% RH) and hot dry (HD, 34°C, 28% RH). Four test scenarios were selected: fans off with no PCMs (i.e., Fan-off, the CONTROL), fans on with no PCMs (i.e., Fan-on), fans off with fully solidified PCMs (i.e., PCM+Fan-off), and fans on with fully solidified PCMs (i.e., PCM+Fan-on). It was found that the addition of PCMs provided a 54∼78min cooling in HH condition. In contrast, the PCMs only offered a 19-39min cooling in HD condition. In both conditions, the ventilation fans greatly enhanced the evaporative heat loss compared with Fan-off. The hybrid PCS (i.e., PCM+Fan-on) provided a continuous cooling effect during the three-hour test and the average cooling rate for the whole body was around 111 and 315W in HH and HD conditions, respectively. Overall, the new hybrid PCS may be an effective means of ameliorating symptoms of heat stress in both hot-humid and hot-dry environments. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  9. Development and evaluation of short forms of the Pain Catastrophizing Scale and the Pain Self-efficacy Questionnaire.

    PubMed

    McWilliams, L A; Kowal, J; Wilson, K G

    2015-10-01

    To facilitate efficient screening and reduce the length of comprehensive self-report batteries, a four-item short form of the Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS) and a two-item short form of the Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire (PSEQ) have been developed and evaluated in samples of patients with arm and upper extremity pain. The first aim of this study was to evaluate these short forms in a heterogeneous sample of patients seeking treatment for chronic musculoskeletal pain, using a priori criteria for determining adequate internal consistency, construct validity and sensitivity to change. In addition, the findings of past studies were used to identify items suitable for new and potentially stronger short forms of these measures. Data were provided by 280 patients who completed the original PCS and PSEQ as part of an interdisciplinary rehabilitation programme. The previously developed four-item PCS and the newly developed six-item short form of the PCS both met the internal consistency and construct validity criteria. They did not meet the criterion regarding sensitivity to change. However, similar to what was obtained using the original PCS, large effect sizes were found when using these short forms to examine pre-treatment to post-treatment changes in catastrophizing. For the PSEQ, the new four-item short form was clearly superior to the other alternatives and met all three criteria. The strongest short forms of the PCS and PSEQ could facilitate the assessment of pain catastrophizing and self-efficacy in situations in which the use of the longer original measures is not feasible. © 2015 European Pain Federation - EFIC®

  10. Strategies for reducing large fMRI data sets for independent component analysis.

    PubMed

    Wang, Ze; Wang, Jiongjiong; Calhoun, Vince; Rao, Hengyi; Detre, John A; Childress, Anna R

    2006-06-01

    In independent component analysis (ICA), principal component analysis (PCA) is generally used to reduce the raw data to a few principal components (PCs) through eigenvector decomposition (EVD) on the data covariance matrix. Although this works for spatial ICA (sICA) on moderately sized fMRI data, it is intractable for temporal ICA (tICA), since typical fMRI data have a high spatial dimension, resulting in an unmanageable data covariance matrix. To solve this problem, two practical data reduction methods are presented in this paper. The first solution is to calculate the PCs of tICA from the PCs of sICA. This approach works well for moderately sized fMRI data; however, it is highly computationally intensive, even intractable, when the number of scans increases. The second solution proposed is to perform PCA decomposition via a cascade recursive least squared (CRLS) network, which provides a uniform data reduction solution for both sICA and tICA. Without the need to calculate the covariance matrix, CRLS extracts PCs directly from the raw data, and the PC extraction can be terminated after computing an arbitrary number of PCs without the need to estimate the whole set of PCs. Moreover, when the whole data set becomes too large to be loaded into the machine memory, CRLS-PCA can save data retrieval time by reading the data once, while the conventional PCA requires numerous data retrieval steps for both covariance matrix calculation and PC extractions. Real fMRI data were used to evaluate the PC extraction precision, computational expense, and memory usage of the presented methods.

  11. Trajectories and associated factors of quality of life, global outcome, and post-concussion symptoms in the first year following mild traumatic brain injury.

    PubMed

    Chiang, Chia-Chen; Guo, Su-Er; Huang, Kuo-Chang; Lee, Bih-O; Fan, Jun-Yu

    2016-08-01

    To investigate the associated factors and change trajectories of quality of life (QoL), global outcome, and post-concussion symptoms (PCS) over the first year following mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). This was a prospective longitudinal study of 100 participants with mTBI from neurosurgical outpatient departments in Chiayi County District Hospitals in Taiwan. The checklist of post-concussion syndromes (CPCS) was used to assess PCS at enrollment and at 1, 3, and 12 months after mTBI; the glasgow outcome scale extended (GOSE), the quality of life after brain injured (QOLIBRI), Chinese version, and the Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36), Taiwan version, were used to assess mTBI global outcome and QoL at 1, 3, and 12 months after mTBI. Latent class growth models (LCGMs) indicated the change trajectories of QOLIBRI, PCS SF-36, MCS SF-36, GOSE, and PCS. Classes of trajectory were associated with age ≥40 years, unemployment at 1 month after injury, and educational level ≤12 years. Univariate analysis revealed that employment status at 1 month post-injury was correlated with the trajectories of QOLIBRI, PCS SF-36, MCS SF-36, and GOSE, but not PCS. Employment status was the most crucial associated factor for QoL in individuals with mTBI at the 1-year follow-up. Future studies should explore the benefits of employment on QoL of individuals with mTBI.

  12. Population structure, migration, and diversifying selection in the Netherlands

    PubMed Central

    Abdellaoui, Abdel; Hottenga, Jouke-Jan; Knijff, Peter de; Nivard, Michel G; Xiao, Xiangjun; Scheet, Paul; Brooks, Andrew; Ehli, Erik A; Hu, Yueshan; Davies, Gareth E; Hudziak, James J; Sullivan, Patrick F; van Beijsterveldt, Toos; Willemsen, Gonneke; de Geus, Eco J; Penninx, Brenda W J H; Boomsma, Dorret I

    2013-01-01

    Genetic variation in a population can be summarized through principal component analysis (PCA) on genome-wide data. PCs derived from such analyses are valuable for genetic association studies, where they can correct for population stratification. We investigated how to capture the genetic population structure in a well-characterized sample from the Netherlands and in a worldwide data set and examined whether (1) removing long-range linkage disequilibrium (LD) regions and LD-based SNP pruning significantly improves correlations between PCs and geography and (2) whether genetic differentiation may have been influenced by migration and/or selection. In the Netherlands, three PCs showed significant correlations with geography, distinguishing between: (1) North and South; (2) East and West; and (3) the middle-band and the rest of the country. The third PC only emerged with minimized LD, which also significantly increased correlations with geography for the other two PCs. In addition to geography, the Dutch North–South PC showed correlations with genome-wide homozygosity (r=0.245), which may reflect a serial-founder effect due to northwards migration, and also with height (♂: r=0.142, ♀: r=0.153). The divergence between subpopulations identified by PCs is partly driven by selection pressures. The first three PCs showed significant signals for diversifying selection (545 SNPs - the majority within 184 genes). The strongest signal was observed between North and South for the functional SNP in HERC2 that determines human blue/brown eye color. Thus, this study demonstrates how to increase ancestry signals in a relatively homogeneous population and how those signals can reveal evolutionary history. PMID:23531865

  13. The impact of health literacy and life style risk factors on health-related quality of life of Australian patients.

    PubMed

    Jayasinghe, Upali W; Harris, Mark Fort; Parker, Sharon M; Litt, John; van Driel, Mieke; Mazza, Danielle; Del Mar, Chris; Lloyd, Jane; Smith, Jane; Zwar, Nicholas; Taylor, Richard

    2016-05-04

    Limited evidence exists regarding the relationship between health literacy and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in Australian patients from primary care. The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of health literacy on HRQoL in a large sample of patients without known vascular disease or diabetes and to examine whether the difference in HRQoL between low and high health literacy groups was clinically significant. This was a cross-sectional study of baseline data from a cluster randomised trial. The study included 739 patients from 30 general practices across four Australian states conducted in 2012 and 2013 using the standard Short Form Health Survey (SF-12) version 2. SF-12 physical component score (PCS-12) and mental component score (MCS-12) are derived using the standard US algorithm. Health literacy was measured using the Health Literacy Management Scale (HeLMS). Multilevel regression analysis (patients at level 1 and general practices at level 2) was applied to relate PCS-12 and MCS-12 to patient reported life style risk behaviours including health literacy and demographic factors. Low health literacy patients were more likely to be smokers (12 % vs 6 %, P = 0.005), do insufficient physical activity (63 % vs 47 %, P < 0.001), be overweight (68 % vs 52 %, P < 0.001), and have lower physical health and lower mental health with large clinically significant effect sizes of 0.56 (B (regression coefficient) = -5.4, P < 0.001) and 0.78(B = -6.4, P < 0.001) respectively after adjustment for confounding factors. Patients with insufficient physical activity were likely to have a lower physical health score (effect size = 0.42, B = -3.1, P < 0.001) and lower mental health (effect size = 0.37, B = -2.6, P < 0.001). Being overweight tended to be related to a lower PCS-12 (effect size = 0.41, B = -1.8, P < 0.05). Less well-educated, unemployed and smoking patients with low health literacy reported worse physical health. Health literacy accounted for 45 and 70 % of the total between patient variance explained in PCS-12 and MCS-12 respectively. Addressing health literacy related barriers to preventive care may help reduce some of the disparities in HRQoL. Recognising and tailoring health related communication to those with low health literacy may improve health outcomes including HRQoL in general practice.

  14. The POIS (Parkland On-Line Information System) Implementation of the IBM Health Care Support/Patient Care System

    PubMed Central

    Mishelevich, David J.; Hudson, Betty G.; Van Slyke, Donald; Mize, Elaine I.; Robinson, Anna L.; Brieden, Helen C.; Atkinson, Jack; Robertson, James

    1980-01-01

    The installation of major components of a comprehensive Hospital Information System (HIS) called POIS, the Parkland On-line Information System, including identified success factors is described for the Dallas County Hospital District (DCHD) known also as the Parkland Memorial Hospital. Installation of the on-line IBM Health Care Support (HCS) Registration and Admissions Packages occurred in 1976 and implementation of the HCS Patient Care System (PCS) began in 1977 which includes on-line support of health care areas such as nursing stations and ancillary areas. The Duke Hospital Information System (DHIS) is marketed as the IBM HCS/Patient Care System (PCS). DCHD was the validation site. POIS has order entry, result reporting and work management components. While most of the patient care components are currently installed for the inpatient service, the Laboratories are being installed for the outpatient and Emergency areas as well. The Clinic Appointment System developed at the University of Michigan is also installed. The HCS family of programs use DL/1 and CICS and were installed in the OS versions, currently running under MVS on an IBM 370/168 Model 3 with 8 megabytes of main memory. ImagesFigure 1-AFigure 1-B

  15. Heart rate variability interventions for concussion and rehabilitation

    PubMed Central

    Conder, Robert L.; Conder, Alanna A.

    2014-01-01

    The study of heart rate variability (HRV) has emerged as an essential component of cardiovascular health, as well as a physiological mechanism by which one can increase the interactive communication between the cardiac and the neurocognitive systems (i.e., the body and the brain). It is well-established that lack of HRV implies cardiopathology, morbidity, reduced quality-of-life, and precipitous mortality. On the positive, optimal HRV has been associated with good cardiovascular health, autonomic nervous system (ANS) control, emotional regulation, and enhanced neurocognitive processing. In addition to health benefits, optimal HRV has been shown to improve neurocognitive performance by enhancing focus, visual acuity and readiness, and by promoting emotional regulation needed for peak performance. In concussed athletes and soldiers, concussions not only alter brain connectivity, but also alter cardiac functioning and impair cardiovascular performance upon exertion. Altered sympathetic and parasympathetic balance in the ANS has been postulated as a critical factor in refractory post concussive syndrome (PCS). This article will review both the pathological aspects of reduced HRV on athletic performance, as well as the cardiovascular and cerebrovascular components of concussion and PCS. Additionally, this article will review interventions with HRV biofeedback (HRV BFB) training as a promising and underutilized treatment for sports and military-related concussion. Finally, this article will review research and promising case studies pertaining to use of HRV BFB for enhancement of cognition and performance, with applicability to concussion rehabilitation. PMID:25165461

  16. Heart rate variability interventions for concussion and rehabilitation.

    PubMed

    Conder, Robert L; Conder, Alanna A

    2014-01-01

    The study of heart rate variability (HRV) has emerged as an essential component of cardiovascular health, as well as a physiological mechanism by which one can increase the interactive communication between the cardiac and the neurocognitive systems (i.e., the body and the brain). It is well-established that lack of HRV implies cardiopathology, morbidity, reduced quality-of-life, and precipitous mortality. On the positive, optimal HRV has been associated with good cardiovascular health, autonomic nervous system (ANS) control, emotional regulation, and enhanced neurocognitive processing. In addition to health benefits, optimal HRV has been shown to improve neurocognitive performance by enhancing focus, visual acuity and readiness, and by promoting emotional regulation needed for peak performance. In concussed athletes and soldiers, concussions not only alter brain connectivity, but also alter cardiac functioning and impair cardiovascular performance upon exertion. Altered sympathetic and parasympathetic balance in the ANS has been postulated as a critical factor in refractory post concussive syndrome (PCS). This article will review both the pathological aspects of reduced HRV on athletic performance, as well as the cardiovascular and cerebrovascular components of concussion and PCS. Additionally, this article will review interventions with HRV biofeedback (HRV BFB) training as a promising and underutilized treatment for sports and military-related concussion. Finally, this article will review research and promising case studies pertaining to use of HRV BFB for enhancement of cognition and performance, with applicability to concussion rehabilitation.

  17. Ethnicity does not account for differences in the health-related quality of life of Turkish, Moroccan, and Moluccan elderly in the Netherlands.

    PubMed

    Verhagen, Ilona; Ros, Wynand J G; Steunenberg, Bas; de Wit, Niek J

    2014-10-01

    Data on how different groups of elderly immigrants perceive health-related quality of life (HRQOL) is scarce and research on the influence of ethnicity on HRQOL across ethnic groups is missing. Measuring HRQOL may help to detect cross-cultural differences and to decide whether ethnic-specific health and prevention programmes are required to improve HRQOL. We investigated differences in HRQOL among three elderly immigrant populations with a special focus on the contribution of ethnicity, in addition to other well-known determinants, to HRQOL. Data were collected between October 2011 and July 2012 as part of the project entitled "Stem van de oudere migrant", a quasi-experimental study in the Netherlands focussing on health of immigrant elderly. A survey was conducted among 201 elderly (aged 55 years and older) Moroccans (98), Turks (69), and Moluccans (34). HRQOL was assessed using the SF-12, measuring physical and mental health composite scores (PCS resp. MCS). Chi-square tests and ANOVAs were performed for group comparison. Hierarchical multiple linear regressions were conducted to examine whether ethnicity uniquely contributed to the observed variance in HRQOL when multimorbidity, loneliness, socio-demographics, and acculturation were taken into account. Moroccans had the lowest scores on PCS (34.3 ± 31.4) and MCS (42.1 ± 27.0), followed by Turks (45.7 ± 27.0 for PCS and 54.7 ± 22.2 for MCS), and Moluccans (71.7 ± 21.2 for PCS and 74.4 ± 22.1 for MCS). Ethnicity was not independently associated with PCS and MCS scores, in contrast to loneliness (PCS β -0.461, p < 0.001 and MCS β -0.435, p < 0.001) and multimorbidity (PCS β -0.380, p < 0.001 and MCS β -0.398, p < 0.001). Gender was independently associated with PCS (β 0.148, p = 0.026) and attachment to Dutch culture with MCS (β 0.144, p = 0.029). The lower level of HRQOL reported by elderly immigrant populations was affected by multimorbidity and loneliness but not ethnicity. Similar to native elders, interventions aiming at improving HRQOL for immigrant elderly should focus on loneliness and (mental and physical) disease. Finally, health literacy deserves attention to maintain health. ISRCTN89447795.

  18. 14 French pigtail catheters placed by surgeons to drain blood on trauma patients: is 14-Fr too small?

    PubMed

    Kulvatunyou, Narong; Joseph, Bellal; Friese, Randall S; Green, Donald; Gries, Lynn; O'Keeffe, Terence; Tang, Andy L; Wynne, Julie L; Rhee, Peter

    2012-12-01

    Small 14F pigtail catheters (PCs) have been shown to drain air quite well in patients with traumatic pneumothorax (PTX). But their effectiveness in draining blood in patients with traumatic hemothorax (HTX) or hemopneumothorax (HPTX) is unknown. We hypothesized that 14F PCs can drain blood as well as large-bore 32F to 40F chest tubes. We herein report our early case series experience with PCs in the management of traumatic HTX and HPTX. We prospectively collected data on all bedside-inserted PCs in patients with traumatic HTX or HPTX during a 30-month period (July 2009 through December 2011) at our Level I trauma center. We then compared our PC prospective data with our trauma registry-derived retrospective chest tube data (January 2008 through December 2010) at our center. Our primary outcome of interest was the initial drainage output. Our secondary outcomes were tube duration, insertion-related complications, and failure rate. For our statistical analysis, we used the unpaired Student's t-test, χ test, and Wilcoxon rank-sum test; we defined significance by a value of p < 0.05. A total of 36 patients received PCs, and 191 received chest tubes. Our PC group had a higher rate of blunt mechanism injuries than our chest tube group did (83 vs. 62%; p = 0.01). The mean initial output was similar between our PC group (560 ± 81 mL) and our chest tube group (426 ± 37 mL) (p = 0.13). In the PC group, the tube was inserted later (median, Day 1; interquartile range, Days 0-3) than the tube inserted in our chest tube group (median, Day 0; interquartile range, Days 0-0) (p < 0.001). Tube duration, rate of insertion-related complications, and failure rate were all similar. In our early experience, 14F PCs seemed to drain blood as well as large-bore chest tubes based on initial drainage output and other outcomes studied. In this early phase, we were being selective in inserting PCs in only stable blunt trauma patients, and PCs were inserted at a later day from the time of the initial evaluation. In the future, we will need a larger sample size and possibly a well-designed prospective study. Therapeutic study, level V.

  19. Hierarchical photonic structured stimuli-responsive materials as high-performance colorimetric sensors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lu, Tao; Zhu, Shenmin; Chen, Zhixin; Wang, Wanlin; Zhang, Wang; Zhang, Di

    2016-05-01

    Hierarchical photonic structures in nature are of special interest because they can be used as templates for fabrication of stimuli-responsive photonic crystals (PCs) with unique structures beyond man-made synthesis. The current stimuli-responsive PCs templated directly from natural PCs showed a very weak external stimuli response and poor durability due to the limitations of natural templates. Herein, we tackle this problem by chemically coating functional polymers, polyacrylamide, on butterfly wing scales which have hierarchical photonic structures. As a result of the combination of the strong water absorption properties of the polyacrylamide and the PC structures of the butterfly wing scales, the designed materials demonstrated excellent humidity responsive properties and a tremendous colour change. The colour change is induced by the refractive index change which is in turn due to the swollen nature of the polymer when the relative humidity changes. The butterfly wing scales also showed an excellent durability which is due to the chemical bonds formed between the polymer and wing scales. The synthesis strategy provides an avenue for the promising applications of stimuli-responsive PCs with hierarchical structures.Hierarchical photonic structures in nature are of special interest because they can be used as templates for fabrication of stimuli-responsive photonic crystals (PCs) with unique structures beyond man-made synthesis. The current stimuli-responsive PCs templated directly from natural PCs showed a very weak external stimuli response and poor durability due to the limitations of natural templates. Herein, we tackle this problem by chemically coating functional polymers, polyacrylamide, on butterfly wing scales which have hierarchical photonic structures. As a result of the combination of the strong water absorption properties of the polyacrylamide and the PC structures of the butterfly wing scales, the designed materials demonstrated excellent humidity responsive properties and a tremendous colour change. The colour change is induced by the refractive index change which is in turn due to the swollen nature of the polymer when the relative humidity changes. The butterfly wing scales also showed an excellent durability which is due to the chemical bonds formed between the polymer and wing scales. The synthesis strategy provides an avenue for the promising applications of stimuli-responsive PCs with hierarchical structures. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c6nr01875k

  20. Dynamics of the plasma current sheath in plasma focus discharges in different gases

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

    Vinogradov, V. P.; Krauz, V. I., E-mail: krauz-vi@nrcki.ru; Mokeev, A. N.

    2016-12-15

    The shape of the plasma current sheath (PCS) in the final stage of its radial compression, the dynamics of pinching, and the subsequent pinch decay in plasma focus (PF) discharges in different gases are studied using an improved multichannel system of electron-optical plasma photography and a newly elaborated synchronization system. The PCS structure in discharges in heavy gases (Ne, Ar) is found to differ significantly from that in discharges in hydrogen and deuterium. The influence of a heavy gas (Xe) additive to hydrogen and deuterium on the structure and compression dynamics of the PCS is investigated.

  1. Demographic and Socioeconomic Factors Influencing Public Attitudes Toward a Presumed Consent System for Organ Donation Without and With a Priority Allocation Scheme.

    PubMed

    Tumin, Makmor; Tafran, Khaled; Mutalib, Muzalwana Abdul Talib Abdul; Satar, NurulHuda Mohd; Said, Saad Mohd; Adnan, Wan Ahmad Hafiz Wan Md; Lu, Yong Sook

    2015-10-01

    The influence of demographic and socioeconomic factors on the public's attitude towards a presumed consent system (PCS) of organ donation was estimated in 2 scenarios: without and with a priority allocation scheme (PAS). Self-administered questionnaires were completed by 775 respondents. Using multiple logistic regressions, respondents' objections to donating organs in both scenarios were estimated. In total, 63.9% of respondents would object to donating under a PCS, whereas 54.6% would object under a PCS with a PAS. Respondents with pretertiary education were more likely to object than were respondents with tertiary education, in both the first (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.615) and second (AOR = 1.728) scenarios. Young respondents were less likely to object than were middle-aged respondents, in both the first (AOR = 0.648) and second (AOR = 0.572) scenarios. Respondents with mid-ranged personal monthly income were more likely to object than were respondents with low income, in both the first (AOR = 1.994) and second (AOR = 1.519) scenarios. It does not seem that Malaysia is ready to implement a PCS. The educational level, age, and income of the broader public should be considered if a PCS, without or with a PAS, is planned for implementation in Malaysia.

  2. One-step pyrolysis route to three dimensional nitrogen-doped porous carbon as anode materials for microbial fuel cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bi, Linlin; Ci, Suqin; Cai, Pingwei; Li, Hao; Wen, Zhenhai

    2018-01-01

    The design and synthesis of low-cost and favourable anode materials is crucial to both power production efficiency and overall performance of microbial fuel cells (MFCs). Herein, we reported the preparation of three dimensional (3D) nitrogen-doped porous carbons (N/PCs) by one-step pyrolysis of solid mixture of sodium citrate and melamine. a variety of techniques, including electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), etc., were applied to characterize the surface physicochemical properties of the products, featuring macroporous structure with rich nitrogen doping on the as-prepared N/PCs. When applied as anode materials of MFC, the N/PCs exhibits a maximum power density of 2777.7 mW m-2, approximately twice higher than that of the MFCs with the commercial carbon cloth (CC) as anode. The significantly improved performance of the N/PCs was attributed to the unique structure and properties, such as favourable porous structure, good electrical conductivity, and large pore volume (0.7 cm3 g-1) in the present N/PCs. Nitrogen dopant on the surface of porous carbon contributed to an increasing in biocompatibility, resulting in a suitable micro-environment for microbial growth and thus helps to decrease charge transfer resistance at the electrode interface.

  3. Cognitive reserve as a moderator of postconcussive symptoms in children with complicated and uncomplicated mild traumatic brain injury

    PubMed Central

    Fay, Taryn B.; Yeates, Keith Owen; Taylor, H. Gerry; Bangert, Barbara; Dietrich, Ann; Nuss, Kathryn E.; Rusin, Jerome; Wright, Martha

    2010-01-01

    The occurrenceof postconcussive symptoms (PCS) following mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) in children may depend on cognitive reserve capacity. This prospective, longitudinal study examined whether the relationship between mild TBI and PCS is moderated by cognitive ability, which served as a proxy for cognitive reserve. Participants included 182 children with mild TBI and 99 children with orthopedic injuries (OI), ranging from 8 to 15 years of age when injured. Mild TBI were classified as complicated (n = 32) or uncomplicated (n = 150) depending on whether they were associated with trauma-related intracranial abnormalities on magnetic resonance imaging. PCS were assessed initially within 3 weeks of injury, and again at 1, 3, and 12 months post injury. The initial assessment also included standardized tests of children’s cognitive skills and retrospective parent ratings of pre-injury symptoms. Hierarchical linear modeling indicated that ratings of PCS were moderated jointly by cognitive ability and injury severity. Children of lower cognitive ability with a complicated mild TBI were especially prone to cognitive symptoms across time according to parents and to high acute levels of PCS according to children’s self-ratings. Cognitive reserve is an important moderator of the outcomes of mild TBI in children and adolescents. PMID:19835663

  4. Cognitive reserve and persistent post-concussion symptoms--A prospective mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) cohort study.

    PubMed

    Oldenburg, Christian; Lundin, Anders; Edman, Gunnar; Nygren-de Boussard, Catharina; Bartfai, Aniko

    2016-01-01

    Having three or more persisting (i.e. > 3 months) post-concussion symptoms (PCS) affects a significant number of patients after a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). A common complaint is cognitive deficits. However, several meta-analyses have found no evidence of long-term cognitive impairment in mTBI patients. The study sought to answer two questions: first, is there a difference in cognitive performance between PCS and recovered mTBI patients? Second, is lower cognitive reserve a risk factor for developing PCS? Prospective inception cohort study. One hundred and twenty-two adult patients were recruited from emergency departments within 24 hours of an mTBI. Three months post-injury, participants completed the Rivermead Post Concussion Symptoms Questionnaire and a neuropsychological assessment. A healthy control group (n = 35) were recruited. The estimate of cognitive reserve was based upon sub-test Information from Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale and international classifications of educational level and occupational skill level. mTBI patients showed reduced memory performance. Patients with lower cognitive reserve were 4.14-times more likely to suffer from PCS. mTBI may be linked to subtle executive memory deficits. Lower cognitive reserve appears to be a risk factor for PCS and indicates individual vulnerabilities.

  5. Fifteen years of the Protein Crystallography Station: the coming of age of macromolecular neutron crystallography.

    PubMed

    Chen, Julian C-H; Unkefer, Clifford J

    2017-01-01

    The Protein Crystallography Station (PCS), located at the Los Alamos Neutron Scattering Center (LANSCE), was the first macromolecular crystallography beamline to be built at a spallation neutron source. Following testing and commissioning, the PCS user program was funded by the Biology and Environmental Research program of the Department of Energy Office of Science (DOE-OBER) for 13 years (2002-2014). The PCS remained the only dedicated macromolecular neutron crystallography station in North America until the construction and commissioning of the MaNDi and IMAGINE instruments at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, which started in 2012. The instrument produced a number of research and technical outcomes that have contributed to the field, clearly demonstrating the power of neutron crystallo-graphy in helping scientists to understand enzyme reaction mechanisms, hydrogen bonding and visualization of H-atom positions, which are critical to nearly all chemical reactions. During this period, neutron crystallography became a technique that increasingly gained traction, and became more integrated into macromolecular crystallography through software developments led by investigators at the PCS. This review highlights the contributions of the PCS to macromolecular neutron crystallography, and gives an overview of the history of neutron crystallography and the development of macromolecular neutron crystallography from the 1960s to the 1990s and onwards through the 2000s.

  6. The construction of an engineered bacterium to remove cadmium from wastewater.

    PubMed

    Chang, S; Shu, H

    2014-01-01

    The removal of cadmium (Cd) from wastewater before it is released from factories is important for protecting human health. Although some researchers have developed engineered bacteria, the resistance of these engineered bacteria to Cd have not been improved. In this study, two key genes involved in glutathione synthesis (gshA and gshB), a serine acetyltransferase gene (cysE), a Thlaspi caerulescens phytochelatin synthase gene (TcPCS1), and a heavy metal ATPase gene (TcHMA3) were transformed into Escherichia coli BL21. The resistance of the engineered bacterium to Cd was significantly greater than that of the initial bacterium and the Cd accumulation in the engineered bacterium was much higher than in the initial bacterium. In addition, the Cd resistance of the bacteria harboring gshB, gshA, cysE, and TcPCS1 was higher than that of the bacteria harboring gshA, cysE, and TcPCS1. This finding demonstrated that gshB played an important role in glutathione synthesis and that the reaction catalyzed by glutathione synthase was the limiting step for producing phytochelatins. Furthermore, TcPCS1 had a greater specificity and a higher capacity for removing Cd than SpPCS1, and TcHMA3 not only played a role in T. caerulescens but also functioned in E. coli.

  7. Live Interrogation and Visualization of Earth Systems (LIVES)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nunn, J. A.; Anderson, L. C.

    2007-12-01

    Twenty tablet PCs and associated peripherals acquired through a HP Technology for Teaching grant are being used to redesign two freshman laboratory courses as well as a sophomore geobiology course in Geology and Geophysics at Louisiana State University. The two introductory laboratories serve approximately 750 students per academic year including both majors and non-majors; the geobiology course enrolls about 35 students/year and is required for majors in the department's geology concentration. Limited enrollments and 3 hour labs make it possible to incorporate hands-on visualization, animation, GIS, manipulation of data and images, and access to geological data available online. Goals of the course redesigns include: enhancing visualization of earth materials, physical/chemical/biological processes, and biosphere/geosphere history; strengthening student's ability to acquire, manage, and interpret multifaceted geological information; fostering critical thinking, the scientific method, and earth-system science/perspective in ancient and modern environments (such as coastal erosion and restoration in Louisiana or the Snowball Earth hypothesis); improving student communication skills; and increasing the quantity, quality, and diversity of students pursuing Earth Science careers. IT resources available in the laboratory provide students with sophisticated visualization tools, allowing them to switch between 2-D and 3-D reconstructions more seamlessly, and enabling them to manipulate larger integrated data- sets, thus permitting more time for critical thinking and hypothesis testing. IT resources also enable faculty and students to simultaneously work with simulation software to animate earth processes such as plate motions or groundwater flow and immediately test hypothesis formulated in the data analysis. Finally, tablet PCs make it possible for data gathering and analysis outside a formal classroom. As a result, students will achieve fluency in using visualization and technology for informal and formal scientific communication. The equipment and exercises developed also will be used in additional upper level undergraduate classes and two outreach programs: NSF funded Geoscience Alliance for Enhanced Minority Participation and Shell Foundation funded Shell Undergraduate Recruiting and Geoscience Education.

  8. The Remote Observatories of the Southeastern Association for Research in Astronomy (SARA)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Keel, William C.; Oswalt, Terry; Mack, Peter; Henson, Gary; Hillwig, Todd; Batcheldor, Daniel; Berrington, Robert; De Pree, Chris; Hartmann, Dieter; Leake, Martha; Licandro, Javier; Murphy, Brian; Webb, James; Wood, Matt A.

    2017-01-01

    We describe the remote facilities operated by the Southeastern Association for Research in Astronomy (SARA) , a consortium of colleges and universities in the US partnered with Lowell Observatory, the Chilean National Telescope Allocation Committee, and the Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias. SARA observatories comprise a 0.96 m telescope at Kitt Peak, Arizona; one of 0.6 m aperture on Cerro Tololo, Chile; and the 1 m Jacobus Kapteyn Telescope at the Roque de los Muchachos, La Palma, Spain. All are operated using standard VNC or Radmin protocols communicating with on-site PCs. Remote operation offers considerable flexibility in scheduling, allowing long-term observational cadences difficult to achieve with classical observing at remote facilities, as well as obvious travel savings. Multiple observers at different locations can share a telescope for training, educational use, or collaborative research programs. Each telescope has a CCD system for optical imaging, using thermoelectric cooling to avoid the need for frequent local service, and a second CCD for offset guiding. The Arizona and Chile telescopes also have fiber-fed echelle spectrographs. Switching between imaging and spectroscopy is very rapid, so a night can easily accommodate mixed observing modes. We present some sample observational programs. For the benefit of other groups organizing similar consortia, we describe the operating structure and principles of SARA, as well as some lessons learned from almost 20 years of remote operations.

  9. 47 CFR 73.295 - FM subsidiary communications services.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 4 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false FM subsidiary communications services. 73.295... RADIO BROADCAST SERVICES FM Broadcast Stations § 73.295 FM subsidiary communications services. (a) Subsidiary communication services are those transmitted on a subcarrier within the FM baseband signal, but do...

  10. Six years' experience of using the BacT/ALERT system to screen all platelet concentrates, and additional testing of outdated platelet concentrates to estimate the frequency of false-negative results.

    PubMed

    Larsen, C P; Ezligini, F; Hermansen, N O; Kjeldsen-Kragh, J

    2005-02-01

    Approximately 1 in every 2000 units of platelets is contaminated with bacteria. The BacT/ALERT automated blood culture system can be used to screen platelet concentrates (PCs) for bacterial contamination. Data were collected from May 1998 until May 2004. The number of PCs tested during this period was 36 896, most of which were produced from pools of four buffy-coats. On the day following blood collection or platelet apheresis, a 5-10 ml sample of the PC was aseptically transferred to a BacT/ALERT culture bottle for detection of aerobic bacteria. The sample was monitored for bacterial growth during the entire storage period of the PC (6.5 days). When a positive signal was generated, the culture bottle, the PC and the erythrocyte concentrates were tested for bacterial growth. In order to determine the frequency of false-negative BacT/ALERT signals, 1061 outdated PCs were tested during the period from May 2002 to May 2004. Eighty-eight positive signals were detected by the BacT/ALERT system, of which 12 were interpreted as truly positive. Fourteen signals were interpreted as truly false positive. Thirty-three signals were interpreted to be probably false positive. Two of 1061 outdated units tested positive, and Bacillus spp. and Staphylococcus epidermidis, respectively, were isolated from these PCs. Between 0.03% and 0.12% of the PCs were contaminated with bacteria. BacT/ALERT is an efficient tool for monitoring PCs for bacterial contamination; however, it is important to realize that false-negative results may occur.

  11. Bacterial screening by flow cytometry offers potential for extension of platelet storage: results of 14 months of active surveillance.

    PubMed

    Vollmer, T; Engemann, J; Kleesiek, K; Dreier, J

    2011-06-01

    Bacterial contamination is currently the major infectious hazard of platelet transfusion in developed countries. It has been demonstrated that a significant transfusion risk remains, in particular with older platelet concentrates (PCs). In 2009, the shelf life of PCs was therefore reduced in Germany to 4 days after the day of production according to Vote 38. The aim of the present study was the application and implementation of a recently developed flow cytometry-based rapid screening method (BactiFlow) for bacterial contamination at the end of PC shelf life as a routine in-process control. A total of 472 apheresis-derived PCs were tested using the BactiFlow flow cytometric assay to detect and count bacteria based on esterase activity in viable bacterial cells, while the BacT/Alert automated culture system served as the reference method. The automation potential of the flow cytometric assay was analysed by applying the semi-automated BactiFlow ALS system. An algorithm was developed for use in routine blood bank operations to extend the storage period of PCs. Two of the 472 apheresis PCs tested were positive in culture and identified as Propionibacterium species. One PC was positive for Staphylococcus aureus by both methods. All remaining specimens were tested negative by both methods. Our study demonstrates that routine bacterial testing of PCs was successfully implemented and the established algorithm proved efficient. The BactiFlow flow cytometric assay is the first rapid screening method which is suitable for a routine application combined with a high sensitivity. © 2011 The Authors. Transfusion Medicine © 2011 British Blood Transfusion Society.

  12. Quantifying the potential export flows of used electronic products in Macau: a case study of PCs.

    PubMed

    Yu, Danfeng; Song, Qingbin; Wang, Zhishi; Li, Jinhui; Duan, Huabo; Wang, Jinben; Wang, Chao; Wang, Xu

    2017-12-01

    The used electronic product (UEP) has attracted the worldwide attentions because part of e-waste may be exported from developed countries to developing countries in the name of UEP. On the basis of large foreign trade data of electronic products (e-products), this study adopted the trade data approach (TDA) to quantify the potential exports of UEP in Macau, taking a case study of personal computers (PCs). The results show that the desktop mainframes, LCD monitors, and CRT monitors have more low-unit-value trades with higher trade volumes in the past 10 years, while the laptop and tablet PCs, as the newer technologies, owned the higher ratios of the high-unit-value trades. During the period of 2005-2015, the total mean exports for used laptop and tablet PCs, desktop mainframes, and LCD monitors were approximately 18,592, 79,957, and 43,177 units, respectively, while the possible export volume of used CRT monitors was higher, up to 430,098 units in 2000-2010. Noticed that these potential export volumes could be the lower bound because not all used PCs may be shipped using the PC trade code. For all the four kinds of used PCs, the majority (61.6-98.82%) of the export volumes have gone to Hong Kong, followed by Mainland China and Taiwan. Since 2011, there was no CRT monitor export; however, the other kinds of used PC exports will still exist in Macau in the future. The outcomes are helpful to understand and manage the current export situations of used products in Macau, and can also provide a reference for other countries and regions.

  13. Determinants and prognostic value of quality of life in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.

    PubMed

    Deng, Yang; Tu, Huakang; Pierzynski, Jeanne A; Miller, Ethan D; Gu, Xiangjun; Huang, Maosheng; Chang, David W; Ye, Yuanqing; Hildebrandt, Michelle A T; Klein, Alison P; Zhao, Ren; Lippman, Scott M; Wu, Xifeng

    2018-03-01

    Quality of life (QOL) is impaired in pancreatic cancer patients. Our aim was to investigate the determinants and prognostic value of QOL after diagnosis in a hospital-based cohort of racially/ethnically diverse patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). QOL was prospectively assessed using the Short Form-12 in 2478 PDAC patients. The Physical Component Summary (PCS) and Mental Component Summary (MCS) were categorised into tertiles based on their distribution. Ordered logistic regression was adopted to compare the risk of having lower PCS and MCS by patient sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. The association of PCS and MCS with mortality was assessed by Cox regression. Compared with non-Hispanic whites, Hispanics were at significantly higher risk of having lower PCS (odds ratio [95% CI], 1.69 [1.26-2.26]; P < 0.001) and lower MCS (1.66 [1.24-2.23]; P < 0.001). Patients diagnosed with stage III (1.80 [1.10-2.94]; P = 0.02) and stage IV (2.32 [1.50-3.59]; P < 0.001) PDAC were more likely to have lower PCS than stage I patients. Other determinants of QOL included sex, age, drinking, smoking, education level, comorbidities and time since diagnosis. The low tertile of PCS (hazard ratio [95% CI], 1.94 [1.72-2.18]; P < 0.001) and MCS (1.42 [1.26-1.59]; P < 0.001) were each related to poor prognosis. Similar results were found for non-Hispanic whites as compared with African-Americans/Hispanics/others. QOL after diagnosis is a significant prognostic indicator for patients with PDAC. Multiple factors determine QOL, suggesting possible means of intervention to improve QOL and outcomes of PDAC patients. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

  14. Cardiovascular simulator improvement: pressure versus volume loop assessment.

    PubMed

    Fonseca, Jeison; Andrade, Aron; Nicolosi, Denys E C; Biscegli, José F; Leme, Juliana; Legendre, Daniel; Bock, Eduardo; Lucchi, Julio Cesar

    2011-05-01

    This article presents improvement on a physical cardiovascular simulator (PCS) system. Intraventricular pressure versus intraventricular volume (PxV) loop was obtained to evaluate performance of a pulsatile chamber mimicking the human left ventricle. PxV loop shows heart contractility and is normally used to evaluate heart performance. In many heart diseases, the stroke volume decreases because of low heart contractility. This pathological situation must be simulated by the PCS in order to evaluate the assistance provided by a ventricular assist device (VAD). The PCS system is automatically controlled by a computer and is an auxiliary tool for VAD control strategies development. This PCS system is according to a Windkessel model where lumped parameters are used for cardiovascular system analysis. Peripheral resistance, arteries compliance, and fluid inertance are simulated. The simulator has an actuator with a roller screw and brushless direct current motor, and the stroke volume is regulated by the actuator displacement. Internal pressure and volume measurements are monitored to obtain the PxV loop. Left chamber internal pressure is directly obtained by pressure transducer; however, internal volume has been obtained indirectly by using a linear variable differential transformer, which senses the diaphragm displacement. Correlations between the internal volume and diaphragm position are made. LabVIEW integrates these signals and shows the pressure versus internal volume loop. The results that have been obtained from the PCS system show PxV loops at different ventricle elastances, making possible the simulation of pathological situations. A preliminary test with a pulsatile VAD attached to PCS system was made. © 2011, Copyright the Authors. Artificial Organs © 2011, International Center for Artificial Organs and Transplantation and Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  15. Use case driven approach to develop simulation model for PCS of APR1400 simulator

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

    Dong Wook, Kim; Hong Soo, Kim; Hyeon Tae, Kang

    2006-07-01

    The full-scope simulator is being developed to evaluate specific design feature and to support the iterative design and validation in the Man-Machine Interface System (MMIS) design of Advanced Power Reactor (APR) 1400. The simulator consists of process model, control logic model, and MMI for the APR1400 as well as the Power Control System (PCS). In this paper, a use case driven approach is proposed to develop a simulation model for PCS. In this approach, a system is considered from the point of view of its users. User's view of the system is based on interactions with the system and themore » resultant responses. In use case driven approach, we initially consider the system as a black box and look at its interactions with the users. From these interactions, use cases of the system are identified. Then the system is modeled using these use cases as functions. Lower levels expand the functionalities of each of these use cases. Hence, starting from the topmost level view of the system, we proceeded down to the lowest level (the internal view of the system). The model of the system thus developed is use case driven. This paper will introduce the functionality of the PCS simulation model, including a requirement analysis based on use case and the validation result of development of PCS model. The PCS simulation model using use case will be first used during the full-scope simulator development for nuclear power plant and will be supplied to Shin-Kori 3 and 4 plant. The use case based simulation model development can be useful for the design and implementation of simulation models. (authors)« less

  16. A Proteasome Cap Subunit Required for Spindle Pole Body Duplication in Yeast

    PubMed Central

    McDonald, Heather B.; Byers, Breck

    1997-01-01

    Proteasome-mediated protein degradation is a key regulatory mechanism in a diversity of complex processes, including the control of cell cycle progression. The selection of substrates for degradation clearly depends on the specificity of ubiquitination mechanisms, but further regulation may occur within the proteasomal 19S cap complexes, which attach to the ends of the 20S proteolytic core and are thought to control entry of substrates into the core. We have characterized a gene from Saccharomyces cerevisiae that displays extensive sequence similarity to members of a family of ATPases that are components of the 19S complex, including human subunit p42 and S. cerevisiae SUG1/ CIM3 and CIM5 products. This gene, termed PCS1 (for proteasomal cap subunit), is identical to the recently described SUG2 gene (Russell, S.J., U.G. Sathyanarayana, and S.A. Johnston. 1996. J. Biol. Chem. 271:32810– 32817). We have shown that PCS1 function is essential for viability. A temperature-sensitive pcs1 strain arrests principally in the second cycle after transfer to the restrictive temperature, blocking as large-budded cells with a G2 content of unsegregated DNA. EM reveals that each arrested pcs1 cell has failed to duplicate its spindle pole body (SPB), which becomes enlarged as in other monopolar mutants. Additionally, we have shown localization of a functional Pcs1–green fluorescent protein fusion to the nucleus throughout the cell cycle. We hypothesize that Pcs1p plays a role in the degradation of certain potentially nuclear component(s) in a manner that specifically is required for SPB duplication. PMID:9151663

  17. The administration of rescue medication to children with prolonged acute convulsive seizures in the community: what happens in practice?

    PubMed

    Wait, Suzanne; Lagae, Lieven; Arzimanoglou, Alexis; Beghi, Ettore; Bennett, Christine; Cross, J Helen; Mifsud, Janet; Schmidt, Dieter; Harvey, Gordon

    2013-01-01

    This paper presents the findings of a review of existing clinical and non-clinical guidance on the management of children with prolonged acute convulsive seizures (PCS) and the administration of rescue medication in community settings. Findings are based on desk- and web-based research in 6 countries. Published clinical guidelines are mostly limited to the hospital setting and offer few explicit recommendations for community settings. Non-clinical guidance on the management of medicines at school exists at the national or regional level in all 6 countries, however rescue epilepsy medication is often not mentioned specifically. Existing legal frameworks are vague and open to interpretation. As a result, whether a child receives rescue medication at school depends primarily on the availability of a willing teacher who accepts responsibility for administering it to that child during school hours. Comprehensive guidelines are clearly needed that provide practical guidance to ensure that children with PCS are treated as quickly as possible in all community settings. Recommendations for future action include: providing clearer information on PCS and rescue medication to parents and schools; putting in place an individual healthcare plan for every child with a history of PCS at his or her school; collecting more empirical data to gain a better understanding of the experience of children with PCS at school, their parents and teachers; and finally, implementing systematic training for all carers of children with PCS. The epilepsy specialist may play an important role in ensuring that these recommendations are put into place for their patients. Copyright © 2012 European Paediatric Neurology Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  18. Reliability and Validity of the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form-12 Version 2 (SF-12v2) in Adults with Non-Cancer Pain

    PubMed Central

    Hayes, Corey J.; Bhandari, Naleen Raj; Kathe, Niranjan; Payakachat, Nalin

    2017-01-01

    Limited evidence exists on how non-cancer pain (NCP) affects an individual’s health-related quality of life (HRQoL). This study aimed to validate the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form-12 Version 2 (SF-12v2), a generic measure of HRQoL, in a NCP cohort using the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey Longitudinal Files. The SF Mental Component Summary (MCS12) and SF Physical Component Summary (PCS12) were tested for reliability (internal consistency and test-retest reliability) and validity (construct: convergent and discriminant; criterion: concurrent and predictive). A total of 15,716 patients with NCP were included in the final analysis. The MCS12 and PCS12 demonstrated high internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha and Mosier’s alpha > 0.8), and moderate and high test-retest reliability, respectively (MCS12 intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC): 0.64; PCS12 ICC: 0.73). Both scales were significantly associated with a number of chronic conditions (p < 0.05). The PCS12 was strongly correlated with perceived health (r = 0.52) but weakly correlated with perceived mental health (r = 0.25). The MCS12 was moderately correlated with perceived mental health (r = 0.42) and perceived health (r = 0.33). Increasing PCS12 and MCS12 scores were significantly associated with lower odds of reporting future physical and cognitive limitations (PCS12: OR = 0.90 95%CI: 0.89–0.90, MCS12: OR = 0.94 95%CI: 0.93–0.94). In summary, the SF-12v2 is a reliable and valid measure of HRQoL for patients with NCP. PMID:28445438

  19. Comparative characterisation of the biofilm-production abilities of Staphylococcus epidermidis isolated from human skin and platelet concentrates.

    PubMed

    Taha, Mariam; Kohnen, Carissa; Mallya, Shruti; Kou, Yuntong; Zapata, Adriana; Ramirez-Arcos, Sandra

    2018-02-01

    Staphylococcus epidermidis is the predominant contaminant of platelet concentrates (PCs), a blood product used to treat patients with platelet deficiencies. This microorganism is able to form surface-attached aggregates (biofilms) in human skin. Herein, the abundance of S. epidermidis biofilm-producers in contaminated PCs compared to skin isolates was explored. Furthermore, the potential positive selection of S. epidermidis biofilm-producers during the blood donation process and PC manufacturing was investigated. Twenty-four S. epidermidis isolates obtained from contaminated PCs and 48 S. epidermidis isolates obtained from the venipuncture area of human volunteers were compared for their ability to form biofilms in laboratory media and in PCs using a semi quantitative crystal violet assay. Also, the presence of the biofilm-associated icaA and icaD genes was assessed by PCR-amplification.Results/Key findings.Biofilm production in laboratory media showed a higher number of S. epidermidis biofilm-producers in the skin-derived group (43.7 %) compared to the PC-derived isolates (25 %). However, all skin and PC isolates formed biofilms in PCs. The prevalence of ica-positive biofilm-producer isolates was similar in PC and skin isolates (16.6 and 18.8 %, respectively). In contrast, the abundance of ica-negative biofilm-producers was lower in PC isolates compared to skin isolates (8.3 vs 25 %, respectively). Positive selection of S. epidermidis biofilm-producers during blood donation and PC manufacturing was not observed. Interestingly, ica-negative biofilm-producers seem to be negatively affected by skin disinfection, blood processing and PC storage. Furthermore, this study shows that S. epidermidis adopts a biofilm-forming phenotype in PCs regardless of its genetic background or origin.

  20. A Novel Deployment Method for Communication-Intensive Applications in Service Clouds

    PubMed Central

    Liu, Chuanchang; Yang, Jingqi

    2014-01-01

    The service platforms are migrating to clouds for reasonably solving long construction periods, low resource utilizations, and isolated constructions of service platforms. However, when the migration is conducted in service clouds, there is a little focus of deploying communication-intensive applications in previous deployment methods. To address this problem, this paper proposed the combination of the online deployment and the offline deployment for deploying communication-intensive applications in service clouds. Firstly, the system architecture was designed for implementing the communication-aware deployment method for communication-intensive applications in service clouds. Secondly, in the online-deployment algorithm and the offline-deployment algorithm, service instances were deployed in an optimal cloud node based on the communication overhead which is determined by the communication traffic between services, as well as the communication performance between cloud nodes. Finally, the experimental results demonstrated that the proposed methods deployed communication-intensive applications effectively with lower latency and lower load compared with existing algorithms. PMID:25140331

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