An equivalent method of mixed dielectric constant in passive microwave/millimeter radiometric measurement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Su, Jinlong; Tian, Yan; Hu, Fei; Gui, Liangqi; Cheng, Yayun; Peng, Xiaohui

2017-10-01

Dielectric constant is an important role to describe the properties of matter. This paper proposes This paper proposes the concept of mixed dielectric constant(MDC) in passive microwave radiometric measurement. In addition, a MDC inversion method is come up, Ratio of Angle-Polarization Difference(RAPD) is utilized in this method. The MDC of several materials are investigated using RAPD. Brightness temperatures(TBs) which calculated by MDC and original dielectric constant are compared. Random errors are added to the simulation to test the robustness of the algorithm. Keywords: Passive detection, microwave/millimeter, radiometric measurement, ratio of angle-polarization difference (RAPD), mixed dielectric constant (MDC), brightness temperatures, remote sensing, target recognition.

Measurement Error, Reliability, and Minimum Detectable Change in the Mini-Mental State Examination, Montreal Cognitive Assessment, and Color Trails Test among Community Living Middle-Aged and Older Adults.

PubMed

Feeney, Joanne; Savva, George M; O'Regan, Claire; King-Kallimanis, Bellinda; Cronin, Hilary; Kenny, Rose Anne

2016-05-31

Knowing the reliability of cognitive tests, particularly those commonly used in clinical practice, is important in order to interpret the clinical significance of a change in performance or a low score on a single test. To report the intra-class correlation (ICC), standard error of measurement (SEM) and minimum detectable change (MDC) for the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), and Color Trails Test (CTT) among community dwelling older adults. 130 participants aged 55 and older without severe cognitive impairment underwent two cognitive assessments between two and four months apart. Half the group changed rater between assessments and half changed time of day. Mean (standard deviation) MMSE was 28.1 (2.1) at baseline and 28.4 (2.1) at repeat. Mean (SD) MoCA increased from 24.8 (3.6) to 25.2 (3.6). There was a rater effect on CTT, but not on the MMSE or MoCA. The SEM of the MMSE was 1.0, leading to an MDC (based on a 95% confidence interval) of 3 points. The SEM of the MoCA was 1.5, implying an MDC95 of 4 points. MoCA (ICC = 0.81) was more reliable than MMSE (ICC = 0.75), but all tests examined showed substantial within-patient variation. An individual's score would have to change by greater than or equal to 3 points on the MMSE and 4 points on the MoCA for the rater to be confident that the change was not due to measurement error. This has important implications for epidemiologists and clinicians in dementia screening and diagnosis.

MDC Annual Report, 2008

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

MDC, Inc., 2008

2008-01-01

MDC's mission is to help organizations and communities close the gaps that separate people from opportunity. The organization has been working to create positive change in disadvantaged communities for 40 years--by conducting research and demonstrating effective programs at the community level. MDC focuses on three areas: education, economic and…

Medical decision-making capacity in mild cognitive impairment: a 3-year longitudinal study.

PubMed

Okonkwo, O C; Griffith, H R; Copeland, J N; Belue, K; Lanza, S; Zamrini, E Y; Harrell, L E; Brockington, J C; Clark, D; Raman, R; Marson, D C

2008-11-04

To investigate longitudinal change in the medical decision-making capacity (MDC) of patients with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (MCI) under different consent standards. Eighty-eight healthy older controls and 116 patients with MCI were administered the Capacity to Consent to Treatment Instrument at baseline and at 1 to 3 (mean = 1.7) annual follow-up visits thereafter. Covariate-adjusted random coefficient regressions were used to examine differences in MDC trajectories across MCI and control participants, as well as to investigate the impact of conversion to Alzheimer disease on MCI patients' MDC trajectories. At baseline, MCI patients performed significantly below controls only on the three clinically relevant standards of appreciation, reasoning, and understanding. Compared with controls, MCI patients experienced significant declines over time on understanding but not on any other consent standard. Conversion affected both the elevation (a decrease in performance) and slope (acceleration in subsequent rate of decline) of MCI patients' MDC trajectories on understanding. A trend emerged for conversion to be associated with a performance decrease on reasoning in the MCI group. Medical decision-making capacity (MDC) decline in mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a relatively slow but detectable process. Over a 3-year period, patients with amnestic MCI show progressive decline in the ability to understand consent information. This decline accelerates after conversion to Alzheimer disease (AD), reflecting increasing vulnerability to decisional impairment. Clinicians and researchers working with MCI patients should give particular attention to the informed consent process when conversion to AD is suspected or confirmed.

Intra-rater repeatability of gait parameters in healthy adults during self-paced treadmill-based virtual reality walking.

PubMed

Al-Amri, Mohammad; Al Balushi, Hilal; Mashabi, Abdulrhman

2017-12-01

Self-paced treadmill walking is becoming increasingly popular for the gait assessment and re-education, in both research and clinical settings. Its day-to-day repeatability is yet to be established. This study scrutinised the test-retest repeatability of key gait parameters, obtained from the Gait Real-time Analysis Interactive Lab (GRAIL) system. Twenty-three male able-bodied adults (age: 34.56 ± 5.12 years) completed two separate gait assessments on the GRAIL system, separated by 5 ± 3 days. Key gait kinematic, kinetic, and spatial-temporal parameters were analysed. The Intraclass-Correlation Coefficients (ICC), Standard Error Measurement (SEM), Minimum Detectable Change (MDC), and the 95% limits of agreements were calculated to evaluate the repeatability of these gait parameters. Day-to-day agreements were excellent (ICCs > 0.87) for spatial-temporal parameters with low MDC and SEM values, <0.153 and <0.055, respectively. The repeatability was higher for joint kinetic than kinematic parameters, as reflected in small values of SEM (<0.13 Nm/kg and <3.4°) and MDC (<0.335 Nm/kg and <9.44°). The obtained values of all parameters fell within the 95% limits of agreement. Our findings demonstrate the repeatability of the GRAIL system available in our laboratory. The SEM and MDC values can be used to assist researchers and clinicians to distinguish 'real' changes in gait performance over time.

Reliability and Validity of the Evidence-Based Practice Confidence (EPIC) Scale

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Salbach, Nancy M.; Jaglal, Susan B.; Williams, Jack I.

2013-01-01

Introduction: The reliability, minimal detectable change (MDC), and construct validity of the evidence-based practice confidence (EPIC) scale were evaluated among physical therapists (PTs) in clinical practice. Methods: A longitudinal mail survey was conducted. Internal consistency and test-retest reliability were estimated using Cronbach's alpha…

A Proteomic Approach to Identify Phosphorylation-Dependent Targets of BRCT Domains

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-03-01

E -mail: songyang@bcm.tmc.edu 5f. WORK UNIT NUMBER 7. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION NAME(S) AND ADDRESS(ES) 8. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION REPORT...s Time RU R e s p o n s e .1µM MDC1 .2µM MDC1 .5µM MDC1 1µM MDC1 MDC1-BRCT with phospho-BACH1 peptide Concentration vs. RU change 0 20 40 60 80...peptides. .05µM BRCA1 -200 0 200 400 600 800 1000 0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400 1600 1800 BRCA1 with BACH 1 peptide s Time RU R e s p o n s e .1µM

Test-Retest Reliability and Minimal Detectable Change of Randomized Dichotic Digits in Learning-Disabled Children: Implications for Dichotic Listening Training.

PubMed

Mahdavi, Mohammad Ebrahim; Pourbakht, Akram; Parand, Akram; Jalaie, Shohreh

2018-03-01

Evaluation of dichotic listening to digits is a common part of many studies for diagnosis and managing auditory processing disorders in children. Previous researchers have verified test-retest relative reliability of dichotic digits results in normal children and adults. However, detecting intervention-related changes in the ear scores after dichotic listening training requires information regarding trial-to-trial typical variation of individual ear scores that is estimated using indices of absolute reliability. Previous studies have not addressed absolute reliability of dichotic listening results. To compare the results of the Persian randomized dichotic digits test (PRDDT) and its relative and absolute indices of reliability between typical achieving (TA) and learning-disabled (LD) children. A repeated measures observational study. Fifteen LD children were recruited from a previously performed study with age range of 7-12 yr. The control group consisted of 15 TA schoolchildren with age range of 8-11 yr. The Persian randomized dichotic digits test was administered on the children under free recall condition in two test sessions 7-12 days apart. We compared the average of the ear scores and ear advantage between TA and LD children. Relative indices of reliability included Pearson's correlation and intraclass correlation (ICC 2,1 ) coefficients and absolute reliability was evaluated by calculation of standard error of measurement (SEM) and minimal detectable change (MDC) using the raw ear scores. The Pearson correlation coefficient indicated that in both groups of children the ear scores of test and retest sessions were strongly and positively (greater than +0.8) correlated. The ear scores showed excellent ICC coefficient of consistency (0.78-0.82) and fair to excellent ICC coefficient of absolute agreement (0.62-0.74) in TA children and excellent ICC coefficients of consistency and absolute agreement in LD children (0.76-0.87). SEM and SEM% of the ear scores in TA children were 1.46 and 1.44% for the right ear and 4.68 and 5.47% for the left ear. SEM and SEM% of the ear scores in LD children were 4.55 and 5.88% for the right ear to 7.56 and 12.81% for the left ear. MDC and MDC% of the ear scores in TA children varied from 4.03 and 3.99% for the right ear to 12.93 and 15.13% for the left ear. MDC and MDC% of the ear scores in LD children varied from 12.57 and 16.25% for the right ear to 20.89 and 35.39% for the left ear. The LD children indicated test-retest relative reliability as high as TA children in the ear scores measured by PRDDT. However, within-subject variations of the ear scores calculated by indices of absolute reliability were considerably higher in LD children versus TA children. The results of the current study could have implications for detecting real training-related changes in the ear scores. American Academy of Audiology

Test–retest reliability, validity, and minimum detectable change of visual analog, numerical rating, and verbal rating scales for measurement of osteoarthritic knee pain

PubMed Central

Alghadir, Ahmad H; Anwer, Shahnawaz; Iqbal, Amir; Iqbal, Zaheen Ahmed

2018-01-01

Objective Several scales are commonly used for assessing pain intensity. Among them, the numerical rating scale (NRS), visual analog scale (VAS), and verbal rating scale (VRS) are often used in clinical practice. However, no study has performed psychometric analyses of their reliability and validity in the measurement of osteoarthritic (OA) pain. Therefore, the present study examined the test–retest reliability, validity, and minimum detectable change (MDC) of the VAS, NRS, and VRS for the measurement of OA knee pain. In addition, the correlations of VAS, NRS, and VRS with demographic variables were evaluated. Methods The study included 121 subjects (65 women, 56 men; aged 40–80 years) with OA of the knee. Test–retest reliability of the VAS, NRS, and VRS was assessed during two consecutive visits in a 24 h interval. The validity was tested using Pearson’s correlation coefficients between the baseline scores of VAS, NRS, and VRS and the demographic variables (age, body mass index [BMI], sex, and OA grade). The standard error of measurement (SEM) and the MDC were calculated to assess statistically meaningful changes. Results The intraclass correlation coefficients of the VAS, NRS, and VRS were 0.97, 0.95, and 0.93, respectively. VAS, NRS, and VRS were significantly related to demographic variables (age, BMI, sex, and OA grade). The SEM of VAS, NRS, and VRS was 0.03, 0.48, and 0.21, respectively. The MDC of VAS, NRS, and VRS was 0.08, 1.33, and 0.58, respectively. Conclusion All the three scales had excellent test–retest reliability. However, the VAS was the most reliable, with the smallest errors in the measurement of OA knee pain. PMID:29731662

A small-group functional balance intervention for individuals with Alzheimer disease: a pilot study.

PubMed

Ries, Julie D; Drake, Jamie Michelle; Marino, Christopher

2010-03-01

Individuals with Alzheimer disease (AD) have a higher risk of falls than their cognitively intact peers. This pilot study was designed to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of a small-group balance exercise program for individuals with AD in a day center environment. Seven participants met the inclusion criteria: diagnosis of AD or probable AD, medical stability, and ability to walk (with or without assistive device). We used an exploratory pre- and post-test study design. Participants engaged in a functional balance exercise program in two 45-minute sessions each week for eight weeks. Balance activities were functional and concrete, and the intervention was organized into constant, blocked, massed practice. Outcome measures included Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Timed Up and Go (TUG), and gait speed (GS; self-selected and fast assessed by an instrumented walkway). Data were analyzed by comparing individual change scores with previously identified minimal detectable change scores at the 90% confidence level (MDC90). Pre- and post-test data were acquired for five participants (two participants withdrew). The BBS improved in all five participants, and improved > or = 6.4 points (the MDC90 for the BBS in three participants. Four participants improved their performance on the TUG, and three participants improved > or = 4.09 seconds (the MDC90 for the TUG). Self-selected GS increased > or = 9.44 cm/sec (the MDC90 for gait speed) in three participants. Two participants demonstrated post-test self-selected GS comparable with their pretest fast GS. This pilot study suggests that a small-group functional balance intervention for individuals with AD is feasible and effective. Although participants had no explicit memory of the program, four of five improved in at least two outcome measures. Larger scale functional balance intervention studies with individuals with AD are warranted.

Nearest Neighbor Averaging and its Effect on the Critical Level and Minimum Detectable Concentration for Scanning Radiological Survey Instruments that Perform Facility Release Surveys.

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

Fournier, Sean Donovan; Beall, Patrick S; Miller, Mark L

2014-08-01

Through the SNL New Mexico Small Business Assistance (NMSBA) program, several Sandia engineers worked with the Environmental Restoration Group (ERG) Inc. to verify and validate a novel algorithm used to determine the scanning Critical Level (L c ) and Minimum Detectable Concentration (MDC) (or Minimum Detectable Areal Activity) for the 102F scanning system. Through the use of Monte Carlo statistical simulations the algorithm mathematically demonstrates accuracy in determining the L c and MDC when a nearest-neighbor averaging (NNA) technique was used. To empirically validate this approach, SNL prepared several spiked sources and ran a test with the ERG 102F instrumentmore » on a bare concrete floor known to have no radiological contamination other than background naturally occurring radioactive material (NORM). The tests conclude that the NNA technique increases the sensitivity (decreases the L c and MDC) for high-density data maps that are obtained by scanning radiological survey instruments.« less

Modeling and visualization of carrier motion in organic films by optical second harmonic generation and Maxwell-displacement current

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Iwamoto, Mitsumasa; Manaka, Takaaki; Taguchi, Dai

2015-09-01

The probing and modeling of carrier motions in materials as well as in electronic devices is a fundamental research subject in science and electronics. According to the Maxwell electromagnetic field theory, carriers are a source of electric field. Therefore, by probing the dielectric polarization caused by the electric field arising from moving carriers and dipoles, we can find a way to visualize the carrier motions in materials and in devices. The techniques used here are an electrical Maxwell-displacement current (MDC) measurement and a novel optical method based on the electric field induced optical second harmonic generation (EFISHG) measurement. The MDC measurement probes changes of induced charge on electrodes, while the EFISHG probes nonlinear polarization induced in organic active layers due to the coupling of electron clouds of molecules and electro-magnetic waves of an incident laser beam in the presence of a DC field caused by electrons and holes. Both measurements allow us to probe dynamical carrier motions in solids through the detection of dielectric polarization phenomena originated from dipolar motions and electron transport. In this topical review, on the basis of Maxwell’s electro-magnetism theory of 1873, which stems from Faraday’s idea, the concept for probing electron and hole transport in solids by using the EFISHG is discussed in comparison with the conventional time of flight (TOF) measurement. We then visualize carrier transit in organic devices, i.e. organic field effect transistors, organic light emitting diodes, organic solar cells, and others. We also show that visualizing an EFISHG microscopic image is a novel way for characterizing anisotropic carrier transport in organic thin films. We also discuss the concept of the detection of rotational dipolar motions in monolayers by means of the MDC measurement, which is capable of probing the change of dielectric spontaneous polarization formed by dipoles in organic monolayers. Finally we conclude that the ideas and experiments on EFISHG and MDC lead to a novel way of analyzing dynamical motions of electrons, holes, and dipoles in solids, and thus are available in organic electronic device application.

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

PubMed

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

2017-07-01

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

Thoracopelvic assisted movement training to improve gait and balance in elderly at risk of falling: a case series

PubMed Central

Springer, Shmuel; Friedman, Itamar; Ohry, Avi

2018-01-01

Background Age-related changes in coordinated movement pattern of the thorax and pelvis may be one of the factors contributing to fall risk. This report describes the feasibility of using a new thoracopelvic assisted movement device to improve gait and balance in an elderly population with increased risk for falls. Methods In this case series, 19 older adults were recruited from an assisted living facility. All had gait difficulties (gait speed <1.0 m/s) and history of falls. Participants received 12 training sessions with the thoracopelvic assisted movement device. Functional performance was measured before, during (after 6 sessions), and after the 12 sessions. Outcomes measures were Timed Up and Go, Functional Reach Test, and the 10-meter Walk Test. Changes in outcomes were calculated for each participant in the context of minimal detectable change (MDC) values. Results More than 25% of participants showed changes >MDC in their clinical measures after 6 treatment sessions, and more than half improved >MDC after 12 sessions. Six subjects (32%) improved their Timed Up and Go time by >4 seconds after 6 sessions, and 10 (53%) after 12 sessions. After the intervention, 4 subjects (21%) improved their 10-meter Walk Test velocity from limited community ambulation (0.4–0.8 m/s) to functional community ambulation (>0.8 m/s). Conclusion Thoracopelvic assisted movement training that mimics normal walking pattern may have clinical implications, by improving skills that enhance balance and gait function. Additional randomized, controlled studies are required to examine the effects of this intervention on larger cohorts with a variety of subjects.

Test-Retest Reliability and Minimal Detectable Change of the D2 Test of Attention in Patients with Schizophrenia.

PubMed

Lee, Posen; Lu, Wen-Shian; Liu, Chin-Hsuan; Lin, Hung-Yu; Hsieh, Ching-Lin

2017-12-08

The d2 Test of Attention (D2) is a commonly used measure of selective attention for patients with schizophrenia. However, its test-retest reliability and minimal detectable change (MDC) are unknown in patients with schizophrenia, limiting its utility in both clinical and research settings. The aim of the present study was to examine the test-retest reliability and MDC of the D2 in patients with schizophrenia. A rater administered the D2 on 108 patients with schizophrenia twice at a 1-month interval. Test-retest reliability was determined through the calculation of the intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC). We also carried out Bland-Altman analysis, which included a scatter plot of the differences between test and retest against their mean. Systematic biases were evaluated by use of a paired t-test. The ICCs for the D2 ranged from 0.78 to 0.94. The MDCs (MDC%) of the seven subscores were 102.3 (29.7), 19.4 (85.0), 7.2 (94.6), 21.0 (69.0), 104.0 (33.1), 105.0 (35.8), and 7.8 (47.8), which represented limited-to-acceptable random measurement error. Trends in the Bland-Altman plots of the omissions (E1), commissions (E2), and errors (E) were noted, presenting that the data had heteroscedasticity. According to the results, the D2 had good test-retest reliability, especially in the scores of TN, TN-E, and CP. For the further research, finding a way to improve the administration procedure to reduce random measurement error would be important for the E1, E2, E, and FR subscores. © The Author(s) 2017. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

ACUTE CHANGES IN PASSIVE GLENOHUMERAL ROTATION FOLLOWING TENNIS PLAY EXPOSURE IN ELITE FEMALE PLAYERS

PubMed Central

Kibler, W. Ben; Myers, Natalie L.; Smith, Belinda J.

2016-01-01

Background Alterations in glenohumeral (GH) rotation especially internal rotation and total range of motion have been associated with altered GH kinematics and susceptibility to injury. Researchers have evaluated long-term change in baseball and tennis players, and short-term changes in baseball players. However, acute (short-term) changes in GH rotation have not been evaluated in tennis players. Hypotheses/Purpose The purpose of this study was to quantify short-term glenohumeral rotational changes within a group of professional women's tennis players following competitive play. It was hypothesized that there would be acute alterations in passive glenohumeral internal rotation and total range of motion following episodes of tennis play. Study Design Cohort Study Methods Passive glenohumeral external rotation (GER), glenohumeral internal rotation (GIR), and total range of motion (TROM) were evaluated in a cohort of 79 professional adult female tennis players. Measurements were taken at three different time points (TP): baseline before match play (TP1), immediately after match play (TP2), and 24-hours after baseline (TP3). Results There was a statistically significant decrease in the mean GIR from TP1 (43 ± 11 °) to TP2 (39 ± 9 °) (p=0.002) and from TP1 to TP3 (38 ± 10 °) (p=0.001). All measures were at the level of minimal detectable change (MDC) (4 °) indicating clinical significance. There was a decrease in mean TROM from TP1 (146 ± 11 °) to TP2 (142 ± 12 °) (p=0.04), which was not above MDC (7 °). Subgroup analysis showed that 47% of the players demonstrated a decrease in GIR beyond MDC, and 37% demonstrated a decrease in TROM beyond MDC. GER remained unchanged across all time points (p>0.05). Conclusion Both GIR and TROM were reduced after acute exposure to tennis play. In a large subgroup of the cohort, the changes were clinically significant and approached values previously demonstrated to be associated with increased injury risk. Given the changes in glenohumeral motion following acute exposure to tennis, evaluation of players for significant motion alterations following overhead activity and intervention strategies to minimize such alterations in these players are recommended for high level tennis players. Level of evidence Level 3 PMID:27104056

Interrater and Test-Retest Reliability and Minimal Detectable Change of the Balance Evaluation Systems Test (BESTest) and Subsystems With Community-Dwelling Older Adults.

PubMed

Wang-Hsu, Elizabeth; Smith, Susan S

2017-01-10

Falls are a common cause of injuries and hospital admissions in older adults. Balance limitation is a potentially modifiable factor contributing to falls. The Balance Evaluation Systems Test (BESTest), a clinical balance measure, categorizes balance into 6 underlying subsystems. Each of the subsystems is scored individually and summed to obtain a total score. The reliability of the BESTest and its individual subsystems has been reported in patients with various neurological disorders and cancer survivors. However, the reliability and minimal detectable change (MDC) of the BESTest with community-dwelling older adults have not been reported. The purposes of our study were to (1) determine the interrater and test-retest reliability of the BESTest total and subsystem scores; and (2) estimate the MDC of the BESTest and its individual subsystem scores with community-dwelling older adults. We used a prospective cohort methodological design. Community-dwelling older adults (N = 70; aged 70-94 years; mean = 85.0 [5.5] years) were recruited from a senior independent living community. Trained testers (N = 3) administered the BESTest. All participants were tested with the BESTest by the same tester initially and then retested 7 to 14 days later. With 32 of the participants, a second tester concurrently scored the retest for interrater reliability. Testers were blinded to each other's scores. Intraclass correlation coefficients [ICC(2,1)] were used to determine the interrater and test-retest reliability. Test-retest reliability was also analyzed using method error and the associated coefficients of variation (CVME). MDC was calculated using standard error of measurement. Interrater reliability (N = 32) of the BESTest total score was ICC(2, 1) = 0.97 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.94-0.99). The ICCs for the individual subsystem scores ranged from 0.85 to 0.94. Test-retest reliability (N = 70) of the BESTest total score was ICC(2,1) = 0.93 (95% CI, 0.89-0.96). ICCs for the individual subsystem scores ranged from 0.72 to 0.89. The CVME (N = 70) of the BESTest total score was 4.1%. The CVME for the subsystem scores ranged from 5.0% to 10.7%. MDC (N = 70) for the BESTest total score at the 95% CI was 7.6%, or 8.2 points. MDC at the 95% CI for subsystem scores ranged from 11.7% to 19.0% (2.1-3.4 points). Results demonstrated generally good to excellent interrater and test-retest reliability in both the BESTest total and subsystem scores with community-dwelling older adults. The BESTest total and individual subsystem scores demonstrate good to excellent interrater and test-retest reliability with community-dwelling older adults. A change of 7.6% (8.2 points) or more in the BESTest total and a percentage change ranged from 11.7% to 19.0% (2.1-3.4 points) in the subsystem scores are suggested for clinicians to be 95% confident of true change when evaluating change in this population.

Der p 1-pulsed myeloid and plasmacytoid dendritic cells from house dust mite-sensitized allergic patients dysregulate the T cell response.

PubMed

Charbonnier, Anne-Sophie; Hammad, Hamida; Gosset, Philippe; Stewart, Geoffrey A; Alkan, Sefik; Tonnel, André-Bernard; Pestel, Joël

2003-01-01

Although reports suggest that dendritic cells (DC) are involved in the allergic reaction characterized by a T helper cell type 2 (Th2) profile, the role of myeloid (M-DC) and plasmacytoid DC (P-DC), controlling the balance Th1/Th2, remains unknown. Here, we showed that in Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Dpt)-sensitized allergic patients and in healthy donors, M-DC displayed a higher capacity to capture Der p 1, a major allergen of Dpt, than did P-DC. However, Der p 1-pulsed M-DC from healthy subjects overexpressed CD80 and secreted interleukin (IL)-10, whereas M-DC from allergic patients did not. In contrast, with Der p 1-pulsed P-DC from both groups, no increase in human leukocyte antigen-DR, CD80, and CD86 and no IL-10 secretion were detected. When cocultured with allogeneic naive CD4(+) T cells from healthy donors, Der p 1-pulsed M-DC from allergic patients favored a Th1 profile [interferon (IFN)-gamma(high)/IL-4(low)] and Der p 1-pulsed P-DC, a Th2 profile (IFN-gamma(low)/IL-4(high)). In healthy donors, no T cell polarization (IFN-gamma(low)/IL-4(low)) was induced by Der p 1-pulsed M-DC or P-DC, but in response to Der p 1-pulsed M-DC, T cells secreted IL-10. The neutralization of IL-10 produced by Der p 1-pulsed M-DC from healthy donors led to an inhibition of IL-10 production by T cells and a polarization toward a type 1. Thus, IL-10 produced by M-DC might be an essential mediator controlling the balance between tolerance and allergic status. In addition, P-DC could contribute to the steady state in healthy donors or to the development of a Th2 response in allergic donors.

The case of the high-risk safety product.

PubMed

Chew, W B; Blodgett, T B; Wallin, W R; Meyers, G C; Holden, B; Johnson, E W; Smith, N C; Ducker, W

1992-01-01

After several days of meetings, J.F. Winchester, president of MDC Industries, felt no closer to a decision. MDC, a manufacturer of wall and ceiling panels, was considering whether to exercise an option to buy a new and safer wallboard technology. The product was being touted as revolutionary, but, Winchester wondered, could MDC afford to carry the flag? According to its inventor, Robert Goerner, Smoke-Safe would be a vast improvement over standard safety-rated wallboard. With almost the same flame-retardant properties, Smoke-Safe had the advantage of giving off almost no fumes or smoke in fire tests. And, Winchester knew, most fire-related deaths are from smoke, not flames. Indeed, the numbers were grimly persuasive: 82% of fire-related injuries involving standard panels were caused by smoke inhalation. What's more, Smoke-Safe would cost about the same to manufacture as MDC's current wallboard. But MDC had several other good options for spending the $5 million Goerner was asking; building plastics was only one of its profit centers. And the prospect of launching a campaign to change building codes in order to market Smoke-Safe, which could spark a fight with competitors, was daunting. Since its current wallboard gave MDC only 18% of the wallboard market, many industry insiders speculated whether MDC had the market clout to influence major cities to revise their codes. Six experts in marketing, law, and ethics advise MDC Industries on how it can balance ethical and business imperatives in making its decision.

The reliability, minimal detectable change and concurrent validity of a gravity-based bubble inclinometer and iphone application for measuring standing lumbar lordosis.

PubMed

Salamh, Paul A; Kolber, Morey

2014-01-01

To investigate the reliability, minimal detectable change (MDC90) and concurrent validity of a gravity-based bubble inclinometer (inclinometer) and iPhone® application for measuring standing lumbar lordosis. Two investigators used both an inclinometer and an iPhone® with an inclinometer application to measure lumbar lordosis of 30 asymptomatic participants. ICC models 3,k and 2,k were used for the intrarater and interrater analysis, respectively. Good interrater and intrarater reliability was present for the inclinometer with Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC) of 0.90 and 0.85, respectively and the iPhone® application with ICC values of 0.96 and 0.81. The minimal detectable change (MDC90) indicates that a change greater than or equal to 7° and 6° is needed to exceed the threshold of error using the iPhone® and inclinometer, respectively. The concurrent validity between the two instruments was good with a Pearson product-moment coefficient of correlation (r) of 0.86 for both raters. Ninety-five percent limits of agreement identified differences ranging from 9° greater in regards to the iPhone® to 8° less regarding the inclinometer. Both the inclinometer and iPhone® application possess good interrater reliability, intrarater reliability and concurrent validity for measuring standing lumbar lordosis. This investigation provides preliminary evidence to suggest that smart phone applications may offer clinical utility comparable to inclinometry for quantifying standing lumbar lordosis. Clinicians should recognize potential individual differences when using these devices interchangeably.

Intrarater Reliability and Other Psychometrics of the Health Promoting Activities Scale (HPAS).

PubMed

Muskett, Rachel; Bourke-Taylor, Helen; Hewitt, Alana

The Health Promoting Activities Scale (HPAS) measures the self-rated frequency with which adults participate in activities that promote health. We evaluated the internal consistency, construct validity, and intrarater reliability of the HPAS with a cohort of mothers (N = 56) of school-age children. We used an online survey that included the HPAS and measures of mental and physical health. Statistical analysis included intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), measurement error, error range, limits of agreement, and minimum detectable change (MDC). The HPAS showed good internal consistency (Cronbach's α = .73). Construct validity was supported by a significant difference in HPAS scores among participants grouped by physical activity level; no other differences were significant. Results included a high aggregate ICC of .90 and an MDC of 5 points. Our evaluation of the HPAS revealed good reliability and stability, suggesting suitability for ongoing evaluation as an outcome measure. Copyright © 2017 by the American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc.

Low CD1c + myeloid dendritic cell counts correlated with a high risk of rapid disease progression during early HIV-1 infection.

PubMed

Diao, Yingying; Geng, Wenqing; Fan, Xuejie; Cui, Hualu; Sun, Hong; Jiang, Yongjun; Wang, Yanan; Sun, Amy; Shang, Hong

2015-08-19

During early HIV-1 infection (EHI), the interaction between the immune response and the virus determines disease progression. Although CD1c + myeloid dendritic cells (mDCs) can trigger the immune response, the relationship between CD1c + mDC alteration and disease progression has not yet been defined. EHI changes in CD1c + mDC counts, surface marker (CD40, CD86, CD83) expression, and IL-12 secretion were assessed by flow cytometry in 29 patients. When compared with the normal controls, patients with EHI displayed significantly lower CD1c + mDC counts and IL-12 secretion and increased surface markers. CD1c + mDC counts were positively correlated with CD4+ T cell counts and inversely associated with viral loads. IL-12 secretion was only positively associated with CD4+ T cell counts. Rapid progressors had lower counts, CD86 expression, and IL-12 secretion of CD1c + mDCs comparing with typical progressors. Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox regression models suggested patients with low CD1c + mDC counts (<10 cells/μL) had a 4-fold higher risk of rapid disease progression than those with high CD1c + mDC counts. However, no relationship was found between surface markers or IL-12 secretion and disease progression. During EHI, patients with low CD1c + mDC counts were more likely to experience rapid disease progression than those with high CD1c + mDC counts.

Reliability of lower limb transcranial magnetic stimulation outcomes in the ipsi- and contralesional hemispheres of adults with chronic stroke.

PubMed

Beaulieu, Louis-David; Massé-Alarie, Hugo; Ribot-Ciscar, Edith; Schneider, Cyril

2017-07-01

To investigate the ability of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) outcomes in the chronic stroke population to (i) track individual plastic changes and (ii) detect differences between individuals. To this end, intrarater "test-retest" reliability (relative and absolute) was tested for the ipsilesional and contralesional hemispheres. Thirteen participants with a unilateral stroke (≥6months ago) and sensorimotor impairments were enrolled. Single and paired-pulse TMS outcomes were obtained from the primary motor cortex (M1) representation of the tibialis anterior muscle in both hemispheres and at two sessions separated by one week. The standard error of the measurement (SEM eas ), minimal detectable change (MDC) and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) were studied. Active motor threshold and latency of motor evoked potentials provided the lowest SEM eas and highest ICCs for both ipsi- and contralesional hemispheres. However, MDC were generally large, thus questioning the use of TMS outcomes to track individual plastic changes of M1. Our study provided supporting evidence of good to excellent intrarater reliability for a few TMS outcomes and proposed recommendations on the interpretation and the use of that knowledge in future work. Psychometric properties of TMS measures should be further addressed in order to better understand how to refine their use in clinical settings. Copyright © 2017 International Federation of Clinical Neurophysiology. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Reliability, Validity, and Minimal Detectable Change of Balance Evaluation Systems Test and Its Short Versions in Older Cancer Survivors: A Pilot Study.

PubMed

Huang, Min H; Miller, Kara; Smith, Kristin; Fredrickson, Kayle; Shilling, Tracy

2016-01-01

Cancer is primarily a disease of older adults. About 77% of all cancers are diagnosed in persons aged 55 years and older. Cancer and its treatment can cause diverse sequelae impacting body systems underlying balance control. No study has examined the psychometric properties of balance assessment tools in older cancer survivors, presenting a significant challenge in the selection of outcome measures for clinicians treating this fast-growing population. This study aimed to determine the reliability, validity, and minimal detectable change (MDC) of the Balance Evaluation System Test (BESTest), Mini-Balance Evaluation Systems Test (Mini-BESTest), and Brief-Balance Evaluation Systems Test (Brief-BESTest) in community-dwelling older cancer survivors. This study was a cross-sectional design. Twenty breast and 8 prostate cancer survivors participated [age (SD) = 68.4 (8.13) years]. The BESTest and Activity-specific Balance Confidence (ABC) Scale were administered during the first session. Scores of Mini-BESTest and Brief-BESTest were extracted on the basis of the scores of BESTest. The BESTest was repeated within 1 to 2 weeks by the same rater to determine the test-retest reliability. For the analysis of the inter-rater reliability, 21 participants were randomly selected to be evaluated by 2 raters. A primary rater administered the test. The 2 raters independently and concurrently scored the performance of the participants. Each rater recorded the ratings separately on the scoring sheet. No discussion among the raters was allowed throughout the testing. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), standard error of measurement, minimal detectable change (MDC), and Bland-Altman plots were calculated. Concurrent validity of these balance tests with the ABC Scale was examined using the Spearman correlation. The BESTest, Mini-BESTest, and Brief-BESTest had high test-retest (ICC = 0.90-0.94) and interrater reliability (ICC = 0.86-0.96), small standard error of measurement (0.86-2.47 points), and MDC (2.39-6.86 points). The Bland-Altman plot revealed no systematic errors. The scores of BESTest, Mini-BEST, and Brief-BEST were correlated significantly with those of ABC Scale (P < .01), supporting their concurrent validity. The BESTest, Mini-BESTest, and Brief-BESTest showed high interrater and test-retest reliability, and excellent concurrent validity with the ABC Scale for community-dwelling cancer survivors aged 55 years and older who had completed cancer treatments for at least 3 months. Future studies are necessary to determine the predictive values for determining fall risks using balance assessment tools in older cancer survivors. Clinicians can utilize the BESTest and its short versions to evaluate balance problems in community-dwelling older cancer survivors and apply the established MDC to assess the intervention outcomes.

Reliability of levator scapulae index in subjects with and without scapular downward rotation syndrome.

PubMed

Lee, Ji-Hyun; Cynn, Heon-Seock; Choi, Woo-Jeong; Jeong, Hyo-Jung; Yoon, Tae-Lim

2016-05-01

The objective of this study was to introduce levator scapulae (LS) measurement using a caliper and the levator scapulae index (LSI) and to investigate intra- and interrater reliability of the LSI in subjects with and without scapular downward rotation syndrome (SDRS). Two raters measured LS length twice in 38 subjects (19 with SDRS and 19 without SDRS). For reliability testing, intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), standard error of measurement (SEM), and minimal detectable change (MDC) were calculated. Intrarater reliability analysis resulted with ICCs ranging from 0.94 to 0.98 in subjects with SDRS and 0.96 to 0.98 in subjects without SDRS. These results represented that intrarater reliability in both groups were excellent for measuring LS length with the LSI. Interrater reliability was good (ICC: 0.82) in subjects with SDRS; however, interrater reliability was moderate (ICC: 0.75) in subjects without SDRS. Additionally, SEM and MDC were 0.13% and 0.36% in subjects with SDRS and 0.35% and 0.97% in subjects without SDRS. In subjects with SDRS, low dispersion of the measurement errors and MDC were shown. This study suggested that the LSI is a reliable method to measure LS length and is more reliable for subjects with SDRS. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Associations of urinary 5-methyl-2'-deoxycytidine and 5-hydroxymethyl-2'-deoxycytidine with phthalate exposure and semen quality in 562 Chinese adult men.

PubMed

Pan, Yitao; Jing, Jun; Yeung, Leo W Y; Sheng, Nan; Zhang, Hongxia; Yao, Bing; Dai, Jiayin

2016-09-01

5-methyl-2'-deoxycytidine (5mdC) and 5-hydroxymethyl-2'-deoxycytidine (5hmdC), products of DNA methylation and hydroxymethylation processes, have been detected previously in human urine, but their associations with environmental chemicals or healthy outcomes are unclear. The present investigation explored the associations between urinary 5mdC and 5hmdC with phthalate exposure and semen quality. We assessed semen parameters including sperm concentration, motility, and morphology, before measuring urinary 5mdC, 5hmdC and 13 phthalate metabolites among 562 subfertile men from Nanjing, China. Urinary 5mdC and 5hmdC were positively associated with the levels of low molecular weight phthalate metabolites (Low-MWP), high molecular weight phthalate metabolites (High-MWP), and the sum of all phthalate metabolites (ΣPAEs), respectively. Urinary 5mdC was associated with below-reference sperm concentration (odds ratios for increasing quartiles=1.0, 2.2, 3.0, 2.0; p for trend =0.02), sperm motility (1.0, 1.1, 1.9, 1.3; p for trend =0.05), and sperm morphology (1.0, 1.4, 2.3, 1.5; p for trend =0.05). Sperm concentration was associated with the highest quartile of urinary 5hmdC [odds ratio=1.9 (95% CI: 1.1, 3.6)]. Our findings showed significant associations between urinary 5mdC and 5hmdC with phthalate metabolites and semen parameters, which suggested urinary 5mdC and 5hmdC may be promising biomarkers in future epidemiological studies. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

On the relationship of minimum detectable contrast to dose and lesion size in abdominal CT

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Yifang; Scott, Alexander, II; Allahverdian, Janet; Lee, Christina; Kightlinger, Blake; Azizyan, Avetis; Miller, Joseph

2015-10-01

CT dose optimization is typically guided by pixel noise or contrast-to-noise ratio that does not delineate low contrast details adequately. We utilized the statistically defined low contrast detectability to study its relationship to dose and lesion size in abdominal CT. A realistically shaped medium sized abdomen phantom was customized to contain a cylindrical void of 4 cm diameter. The void was filled with a low contrast (1% and 2%) insert containing six groups of cylindrical targets ranging from 1.2 mm to 7 mm in size. Helical CT scans were performed using a Siemens 64-slice mCT and a GE Discovery 750 HD at various doses. After the subtractions between adjacent slices, the uniform sections of the filtered backprojection reconstructed images were partitioned to matrices of square elements matching the sizes of the targets. It was verified that the mean values from all the elements in each matrix follow a Gaussian distribution. The minimum detectable contrast (MDC), quantified by the mean signal to background difference equal to the distribution’s standard deviation multiplied by 3.29, corresponding to 95% confidence level, was found to be related to the phantom specific dose and the element size by a power law (R^2  >  0.990). Independent readings on the 5 mm and 7 mm targets were compared to the measured contrast to the MDC ratios. The results showed that 93% of the cases were detectable when the measured contrast exceeds the MDC. The correlation of the MDC to the pixel noise and target size was also identified and the relationship was found to be the same for the scanners in the study. To quantify the impact of iterative reconstructions to the low contrast detectability, the noise structure was studied in a similar manner at different doses and with different ASIR blending fractions. The relationship of the dose to the blending fraction and low contrast detectability is presented.

Reliability and validity of cervical position measurements in individuals with and without chronic neck pain.

PubMed

Dunleavy, Kim; Neil, Joseph; Tallon, Allison; Adamo, Diane E

2015-09-01

The cervical range of motion device (CROM) has been shown to provide reliable forward head position (FHP) measurement when the upper cervical angle (UCA) is controlled. However, measurement without UCA standardization is reflective of habitual patterns. Criterion validity has not been reported. The purposes of this study were to establish: (1) criterion validity of CROM FHP and UCA compared to Optotrak data, (2) relative reliability and minimal detectable change (MDC95) in patients with and without cervical pain, and (3) to compare UCA and FHP in patients with and without pain in habitual postures. (1) Within-subjects single session concurrent criterion validity design. Simultaneous CROM and OP measurement was conducted in habitual sitting posture in 16 healthy young adults. (2) Reliability and MDC95 of UCA and FHP were calculated from three trials. (3) Values for adults over 35 years with cervical pain and age-matched healthy controls were compared. (1) Forward head position distances were moderately correlated and UCA angles were highly correlated. The mean (standard deviation) differences can be expected to vary between 1·48 cm (1·74) for FHP and -1·7 (2·46)° for UCA. (2) Reliability for CROM FHP measurements were good to excellent (no pain) and moderate (pain). Cervical range of motion FHP MDC95 was moderately low (no pain), and moderate (pain). Reliability for CROM UCA measurements was excellent and MDC95 low for both groups. There was no difference in FHP distances between the pain and no pain groups, UCA was significantly more extended in the pain group (P<0·05). Cervical range of motion FHP measurements were only moderately correlated with Optotrak data, and limits of agreement (LOA) and MDC95 were relatively large. There was also no difference in CROM FHP distance between older symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals. Cervical range of motion FHP measurement is therefore not recommended as a clinical outcome measure. Cervical range of motion UCA measurements showed good criterion validity, excellent test-retest reliability, and achievable MDC95 in asymptomatic and symptomatic participants. Differences of more than 6° are required to exceed error. Cervical range of motion UCA shows promise as a useful reliable and valid measurement, particularly as patients with cervical pain exhibited significantly more extended angles.

Reliability and validity of cervical position measurements in individuals with and without chronic neck pain

PubMed Central

Neil, Joseph; Tallon, Allison; Adamo, Diane E.

2015-01-01

Objectives The cervical range of motion device (CROM) has been shown to provide reliable forward head position (FHP) measurement when the upper cervical angle (UCA) is controlled. However, measurement without UCA standardization is reflective of habitual patterns. Criterion validity has not been reported. The purposes of this study were to establish: (1) criterion validity of CROM FHP and UCA compared to Optotrak data, (2) relative reliability and minimal detectable change (MDC95) in patients with and without cervical pain, and (3) to compare UCA and FHP in patients with and without pain in habitual postures. Methods (1) Within-subjects single session concurrent criterion validity design. Simultaneous CROM and OP measurement was conducted in habitual sitting posture in 16 healthy young adults. (2) Reliability and MDC95 of UCA and FHP were calculated from three trials. (3) Values for adults over 35 years with cervical pain and age-matched healthy controls were compared. Results (1) Forward head position distances were moderately correlated and UCA angles were highly correlated. The mean (standard deviation) differences can be expected to vary between 1·48 cm (1·74) for FHP and −1·7 (2·46)° for UCA. (2) Reliability for CROM FHP measurements were good to excellent (no pain) and moderate (pain). Cervical range of motion FHP MDC95 was moderately low (no pain), and moderate (pain). Reliability for CROM UCA measurements was excellent and MDC95 low for both groups. There was no difference in FHP distances between the pain and no pain groups, UCA was significantly more extended in the pain group (P<0·05). Discussion Cervical range of motion FHP measurements were only moderately correlated with Optotrak data, and limits of agreement (LOA) and MDC95 were relatively large. There was also no difference in CROM FHP distance between older symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals. Cervical range of motion FHP measurement is therefore not recommended as a clinical outcome measure. Cervical range of motion UCA measurements showed good criterion validity, excellent test–retest reliability, and achievable MDC95 in asymptomatic and symptomatic participants. Differences of more than 6° are required to exceed error. Cervical range of motion UCA shows promise as a useful reliable and valid measurement, particularly as patients with cervical pain exhibited significantly more extended angles. PMID:26917936

Using a divided-attention stepping accuracy task to improve balance and functional outcomes in an individual with incomplete spinal cord injury: A case report.

PubMed

Leach, Susan J; Magill, Richard A; Maring, Joyce R

2017-01-01

A spinal cord injury (SCI) frequently results in impaired balance, endurance, and strength with subsequent limitations in functional mobility and community participation. The purpose of this case report was to implement a training program for an individual with a chronic incomplete SCI using a novel divided-attention stepping accuracy task (DASAT) to determine if improvements could be made in impairments, activities, and participation. The client was a 51-year-old male with a motor incomplete C4 SCI sustained 4 years prior. He presented with decreased quality of life (QOL) and functional independence, and deficits in balance, endurance, and strength consistent with central cord syndrome. The client completed the DASAT intervention 3 times per week for 6 weeks. Each session incorporated 96 multi-directional steps to randomly-assigned targets in response to 3-step verbal commands. QOL, measured using the SF-36, was generally enhanced but fluctuated. Community mobility progressed from close supervision to independence. Significant improvement was achieved in all balance scores: Berg Balance Scale by 9 points [Minimal Detectable Change (MDC) = 4.9 in elderly]; Functional Reach Test by 7.62 cm (MDC = 5.16 in C5/C6 SCI); and Timed Up-and-Go by 0.53 s (MDC not established). Endurance increased on the 6-Minute Walk Test, with the client achieving an additional 47 m (MDC = 45.8 m). Lower extremity isokinetic peak torque strength measures were mostly unchanged. Six minutes of DASAT training per session provided an efficient, low-cost intervention utilizing multiple trials of variable practice, and resulted in better performance in activities, balance, and endurance in this client.

Detectable changes in physical performance measures in elderly African Americans.

PubMed

Mangione, Kathleen Kline; Craik, Rebecca L; McCormick, Alyson A; Blevins, Heather L; White, Meaghan B; Sullivan-Marx, Eileen M; Tomlinson, James D

2010-06-01

African American older adults have higher rates of self-reported disability and lower physical performance scores compared with white older adults. Measures of physical performance are used to predict future morbidity and to determine the effect of exercise. Characteristics of performance measures are not known for African American older adults. The purpose of this study was to estimate the standard error of measurement (SEM) and minimal detectable change (MDC) for the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), Timed "Up & Go" Test (TUG) time, free gait speed, fast gait speed, and Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) distance in frail African American adults. This observational measurement study used a test-retest design. Individuals were tested 2 times over a 1-week period. Demographic data collected included height, weight, number of medications, assistive device use, and Mini-Mental Status Examination (MMSE) scores. Participants then completed the 5 physical performance tests. Fifty-two participants (mean age=78 years) completed the study. The average MMSE score was 25 points, and the average body mass index was 29.4 kg/m(2). On average, participants took 7 medications, and the majority used assistive devices. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC [2,1]) were greater than .90, except for the SPPB score (ICC=.81). The SEMs were 1.2 points for the SPPB, 1.7 seconds for the TUG, 0.08 m/s for free gait speed, 0.09 m/s for fast gait speed, and 28 m for 6MWT distance. The MDC values were 2.9 points for the SPPB, 4 seconds for the TUG, 0.19 m/s for free gait speed, 0.21 m/s for fast gait speed, and 65 m for 6MWT distance. The entire sample was from an urban area. The SEMs were similar to previously reported values and can be used when working with African American and white older adults. Estimates of MDC were calculated to assist in clinical interpretation.

Microbial desalination cells packed with ion-exchange resin to enhance water desalination rate.

PubMed

Morel, Alexandre; Zuo, Kuichang; Xia, Xue; Wei, Jincheng; Luo, Xi; Liang, Peng; Huang, Xia

2012-08-01

A novel configuration of microbial desalination cell (MDC) packed with ion-exchange resin (R-MDC) was proposed to enhance water desalination rate. Compared with classic MDC (C-MDC), an obvious increase in desalination rate (DR) was obtained by R-MDC. With relatively low concentration (10-2 g/L NaCl) influents, the DR values of R-MDC were about 1.5-8 times those of C-MDC. Ion-exchange resins packed in the desalination chamber worked as conductor and thus counteracted the increase in ohmic resistance during treatment of low concentration salt water. Ohmic resistances of R-MDC stabilized at 3.0-4.7 Ω. By contrast, the ohmic resistances of C-MDC ranged from 5.5 to 12.7 Ω, which were 55-272% higher than those of R-MDC. Remarkable improvement in desalination rate helped improve charge efficiency for desalination in R-MDC. The results first showed the potential of R-MDC in the desalination of water with low salinity. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Identification of metalloprotease/disintegrins in Xenopus laevis testis with a potential role in fertilization.

PubMed

Shilling, F M; Krätzschmar, J; Cai, H; Weskamp, G; Gayko, U; Leibow, J; Myles, D G; Nuccitelli, R; Blobel, C P

1997-06-15

Proteins containing a membrane-anchored metalloprotease domain, a disintegrin domain, and a cysteine-rich region (MDC proteins) are thought to play an important role in mammalian fertilization, as well as in somatic cell-cell interactions. We have identified PCR sequence tags encoding the disintegrin domain of five distinct MDC proteins from Xenopus laevis testis cDNA. Four of these sequence tags (xMDC9, xMDC11.1, xMDC11.2, and xMDC13) showed strong similarity to known mammalian MDC proteins, whereas the fifth (xMDC16) apparently represents a novel family member. Northern blot analysis revealed that the mRNA for xMDC16 was only expressed in testis, and not in heart, muscle, liver, ovaries, or eggs, whereas the mRNAs corresponding to the four other PCR products were expressed in testis and in some or all somatic tissues tested. The xMDC16 protein sequence, as predicted from the full-length cDNA, contains a metalloprotease domain with the active-site sequence HEXXH, a disintegrin domain, a cysteine-rich region, an EGF repeat, a transmembrane domain, and a short cytoplasmic tail. To study a potential role for these xMDC proteins in fertilization, peptides corresponding to the predicted integrin-binding domain of each protein were tested for their ability to inhibit X. laevis fertilization. Cyclic and linear xMDC16 peptides inhibited fertilization in a concentration-dependent manner, whereas xMDC16 peptides that were scrambled or had certain amino acid replacements in the predicted integrin-binding domain did not affect fertilization. Cyclic and linear xMDC9 peptides and linear xMDC13 peptides also inhibited fertilization similarly to xMDC16 peptides, whereas peptides corresponding to the predicted integrin-binding site of xMDC11.1 and xMDC11.2 did not. These results are discussed in the context of a model in which multiple MDC protein-receptor interactions are necessary for fertilization to occur.

Development and Reliability Testing of the Comprehensive High-Level Activity Mobility Predictor (CHAMP) in Male Servicemembers with Traumatic Lower-Limb Loss

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-01-01

Levin GT, Ben Abdelkrim N, Laurencelle L, Castagna C. Lower limb maxi- mal dynamic strength and agility determinants in elite basket - ball players . J...IRB = Institutional Review Board, LLL = lower-limb loss, MBP = Medicine Ball Put, MDC = minimal detectable change, NMCSD = Naval Medical Center...consid- ered for the CHAMP. Coordination, power, speed, and agility are important physical components necessary for successful perfor- mance in sports

Molecular organization of phospholipid monolayers on the water surface by Maxwell displacement current measurement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sulaiman, Khaulah; Majid, Wan Haliza Abdul; Muhamad, Muhamad Rasat

2006-02-01

The monolayer of organic molecules at the air-water interface has been studied using the Maxwell displacement current (MDC) technique. The materials used in this study were the biological materials of phosphatidyl ethanolamine (PE) and phosphatidic acids (PA). The configuration of the experimental set-up consists of the metal/air-gap/monolayer/metal coupled with the Langmuir method. This measurement enables the detection of current without destroying the monolayer. The phase transition and molecular orientation of the phospholipid monolayers were investigated using MDC measurement without mechanical contact between electrodes and the materials. Direct evidence of phase transition from gaseous to the polar ordering phase can be obtained across phospholipid monolayers even though at very low surface pressure. Relaxation process of the phospholipid monolayers was investigated by using the step compression on the MDC signals.

Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Prevent Allostimulation In Vivo and Control Checkpoints of Th1 Priming: Migration of Human DC to Lymph Nodes and NK Cell Activation.

PubMed

Consentius, C; Akyüz, L; Schmidt-Lucke, J A; Tschöpe, C; Pinzur, L; Ofir, R; Reinke, P; Volk, H-D; Juelke, K

2015-10-01

Although the immunomodulatory potency of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) is well established, the mechanisms behind are still not clear. The crosstalk between myeloid dendritic cells (mDC) and natural killer (NK) cells and especially NK cell-derived interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) play a pivotal role in the development of type 1 helper (Th1) cell immune responses. While many studies explored the isolated impact of MSC on either in vitro generated DC, NK, or T cells, there are only few data available on the complex interplay between these cells. Here, we investigated the impact of MSC on the functionality of human mDC and the consequences for NK cell and Th1 priming in vitro and in vivo. In critical limb ischemia patients, who have been treated with allogeneic placenta-derived mesenchymal-like stromal cells (PLX-PAD), no in vivo priming of Th1 responses toward the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) mismatches could be detected. Further in vitro studies revealed that mDC reprogramming could play a central role for these effects. Following crosstalk with MSC, activated mDC acquired a tolerogenic phenotype characterized by reduced migration toward CCR7 ligand and impaired ability to stimulate NK cell-derived IFN-γ production. These effects, which were strongly related to an altered interleukin (IL)-12/IL-10 production by mDC, were accompanied by an effective prevention of Th1 priming in vivo. Our findings provide novel evidence for the regulation of Th1 priming by MSC via modulation of mDC and NK cell crosstalk and show that off-the-shelf produced MHC-mismatched PLX-PAD can be used in patients without any sign of immunogenicity. © 2015 AlphaMed Press.

How Should Disability Be Measured in Older Adults? An Analysis from the Boston Rehabilitative Impairment Study of the Elderly.

PubMed

Beauchamp, Marla K; Bean, Jonathan F; Ward, Rachel E; Kurlinski, Laura A; Latham, Nancy K; Jette, Alan M

2015-06-01

To determine and compare the predictive validity and responsiveness of the Late-Life Function and Disability Instrument (LLFDI) frequency and limitation dimensions in assessing two critical dimensions of disability: frequency of and limitations in performance of major life roles. Secondary analysis of 2-year follow-up data from the Boston Rehabilitative Impairment Study of the Elderly. Primary care. Community-dwelling older adults (≥65) (n = 430) at risk of mobility decline. The LLFDI frequency and limitation dimensions, self-rated health, hospitalizations, and emergency department (ED) visits over 2 years. Responsiveness measures included effect size (ES) estimates and minimal detectable change (MDC) scores. The LLFDI frequency dimension predicted low self-rated health (odds ratio (OR) = 0.51, P < .001), hospitalizations (OR = 0.68, P < .001), and ED visits (OR = 0.73, P = .003) over 2 years, whereas the limitation dimension did not. The absolute ES was 0.63 for the frequency dimension and 0.81 for the limitation dimension. The proportion of subjects with a decline greater than or equal to the MDC was 10.6% for the frequency dimension and 14.2% for the limitation dimension. For participants who improved greater than or equal to the MDC, the proportion was 1.7% for the frequency dimension and 15.3% for the limitation dimension. Frequency of participation in major life roles was a better predictor of adverse outcomes than perceived limitations, although limitations appeared to be more responsive to meaningful change. These results can be used to guide the selection of the most appropriate metric for measuring disability in geriatric research. © 2015, Copyright the Authors Journal compilation © 2015, The American Geriatrics Society.

The modified gait abnormality rating scale in patients with a conversion disorder: a reliability and responsiveness study.

PubMed

Vandenberg, Justin M; George, Deanna R; O'Leary, Andrea J; Olson, Lindsay C; Strassburg, Kaitlyn R; Hollman, John H

2015-01-01

Individuals with conversion disorder have neurologic symptoms that are not identified by an underlying organic cause. Often the symptoms manifest as gait disturbances. The modified gait abnormality rating scale (GARS-M) may be useful for quantifying gait abnormalities in these individuals. The purpose of this study was to examine the reliability, responsiveness and concurrent validity of GARS-M scores in individuals with conversion disorder. Data from 27 individuals who completed a rehabilitation program were included in this study. Pre- and post-intervention videos were obtained and walking speed was measured. Five examiners independently evaluated gait performance according to the GARS-M criteria. Inter- and intrarater reliability of GARS-M scores were estimated with intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). Responsiveness was estimated with the minimum detectable change (MDC). Pre- to post-treatment changes in GARS-M scores were analyzed with a dependent t-test. The correlation between GARS-M scores and walking speed was analyzed to assess concurrent validity. GARS-M scores were quantified with good-to-excellent inter- (ICC = 0.878) and intrarater reliability (ICC = 0.989). The MDC was 2 points. Mean GARS-M scores decreased from 7 ± 5 at baseline to 1 ± 2 at discharge (t26 = 7.411, p < 0.001) and 85% of patients improved beyond the MDC. Furthermore, GARS-M scores and walking speed measurements were moderately correlated (r = -0.582, p = 0.004), indicating that the GARS-M has acceptable concurrent validity. Our findings provide evidence that the GARS-M scores are reliable, valid and responsive for quantifying gait abnormalities in patients with conversion disorder. GARS-M scores provide objective measures upon which treatment effects can be assessed. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Alternatives for Laboratory Measurement of Aerosol Samples from the International Monitoring System of the CTBT

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miley, H.; Forrester, J. B.; Greenwood, L. R.; Keillor, M. E.; Eslinger, P. W.; Regmi, R.; Biegalski, S.; Erikson, L. E.

2013-12-01

The aerosol samples taken from the CTBT International Monitoring Systems stations are measured in the field with a minimum detectable concentration (MDC) of ~30 microBq/m3 of Ba-140. This is sufficient to detect far less than 1 kt of aerosol fission products in the atmosphere when the station is in the plume from such an event. Recent thinking about minimizing the potential source region (PSR) from a detection has led to a desire for a multi-station or multi-time period detection. These would be connected through the concept of ';event formation', analogous to event formation in seismic event study. However, to form such events, samples from the nearest neighbors of the detection would require re-analysis with a more sensitive laboratory to gain a substantially lower MDC, and potentially find radionuclide concentrations undetected by the station. The authors will present recent laboratory work with air filters showing various cost effective means for enhancing laboratory sensitivity.

Reliability of the Berg Balance Scale as a Clinical Measure of Balance in Community-Dwelling Older Adults with Mild to Moderate Alzheimer Disease: A Pilot Study.

PubMed

Muir-Hunter, Susan W; Graham, Laura; Montero Odasso, Manuel

2015-08-01

To measure test-retest and interrater reliability of the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) in community-dwelling adults with mild to moderate Alzheimer disease (AD). Method : A sample of 15 adults (mean age 80.20 [SD 5.03] years) with AD performed three balance tests: the BBS, timed up-and-go test (TUG), and Functional Reach Test (FRT). Both relative reliability, using the intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC), and absolute reliability, using standard error of measurement (SEM) and minimal detectable change (MDC95) values, were calculated; Bland-Altman plots were constructed to evaluate inter-tester agreement. The test-retest interval was 1 week. Results : For the BBS, relative reliability values were 0.95 (95% CI, 0.85-0.98) for test-retest reliability and 0.72 (95% CI, 0.31-0.91) for interrater reliability; SEM was 6.01 points and MDC95 was 16.66 points; and interrater agreement was 16.62 points. The BBS performed better in test-retest reliability than the TUG and FRT, tests with established reliability in AD. Between 33% and 50% of participants required cueing beyond standardized instructions because they were unable to remember test instructions. Conclusions : The BBS achieved relative reliability values that support its clinical utility, but MDC95 and agreement values indicate the scale has performance limitations in AD. Further research to optimize balance assessment for people with AD is required.

Practicability of monitoring soil Cd, Hg, and Pb pollution based on a geochemical survey in China.

PubMed

Xia, Xueqi; Yang, Zhongfang; Li, Guocheng; Yu, Tao; Hou, Qingye; Mutelo, Admire Muchimamui

2017-04-01

Repeated visiting, i.e., sampling and analysis at two or more temporal points, is one of the important ways of monitoring soil heavy metal contamination. However, with the concern about the cost, determination of the number of samples and the temporal interval, and their capability to detect a certain change is a key technical problem to be solved. This depends on the spatial variation of the parameters in the monitoring units. The "National Multi-Purpose Regional Geochemical Survey" (NMPRGS) project in China, acquired the spatial distribution of heavy metals using a high density sampling method in the most arable regions in China. Based on soil Cd, Hg, and Pb data and taking administrative regions as the monitoring units, the number of samples and temporal intervals that may be used for monitoring soil heavy metal contamination were determined. It was found that there is a large variety of spatial variation of the elements in each NMPRGS region. This results in the difficulty in the determination of the minimum detectable changes (MDC), the number of samples, and temporal intervals for revisiting. This paper recommends a suitable set of the number of samples (n r ) for each region under the balance of cost, practicability, and monitoring precision. Under n r , MDC values are acceptable for all the regions, and the minimum temporal intervals are practical with the range of 3.3-13.3 years. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Validity and Reliability of a Portable Balance Tracking System, BTrackS, in Older Adults.

PubMed

Levy, Susan S; Thralls, Katie J; Kviatkovsky, Shiloah A

Falls are the leading cause of disability, injury, hospital admission, and injury-related death among older adults. Balance limitations have consistently been identified as predictors of falls and increased fall risk. Field measures of balance are limited by issues of subjectivity, ceiling effects, and low sensitivity to change. The gold standard for measuring balance is the force plate; however, its field use is untenable due to high cost and lack of portability. Thus, a critical need is observed for valid objective field measures of balance to accurately assess balance and identify limitations over time. The purpose of this study was to examine the concurrent validity and 3-day test-retest reliability of Balance Tracking System (BTrackS) in community-dwelling older adults. Minimal detectable change values were also calculated to reflect changes in balance beyond measurement error. Postural sway data were collected from community-dwelling older adults (N = 49, mean [SD] age = 71.3 [7.3] years) with a force plate and BTrackS in multitrial eyes open (EO) and eyes closed (EC) static balance conditions. Force sensors transmitted BTrackS data via a USB to a computer running custom software. Three approaches to concurrent validity were taken including calculation of Pearson product moment correlation coefficients, repeated-measures ANOVAs, and Bland-Altman plots. Three-day test-retest reliability of BTrackS was examined in a second sample of 47 community-dwelling older adults (mean [SD] age = 75.8 [7.7] years) using intraclass correlation coefficients and MDC values at 95% CI (MDC95) were calculated. BTrackS demonstrated good validity using Pearson product moment correlations (r > 0.90). Repeated-measures ANOVA and Bland-Altman plots indicated some BTrackS bias with center of pressure (COP) values higher than FP COP values in the EO (mean [SD] bias = 4.0 [6.8]) and EC (mean [SD] bias = 9.6 [12.3]) conditions. Test-retest reliability using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC2.1 was excellent (0.83) and calculated MDC95 for EO (9.6 cm) and EC (19.4 cm) and suggested that postural sway changes of these amounts are meaningful. BTrackS showed some bias with values exceeding force plate values in both EO and EC conditions. Excellent test-retest reliability and resulting MDC95 values indicated that BTrackS has the potential to identify meaningful changes in balance that may warrant intervention. BTrackS is an objective measure of balance that can be used to monitor balance in community-dwelling older adults over time. It can reliably identify changes that may require further attention (eg, fall-prevention strategies, declines in physical function) and shows promise for assessing intervention efficacy in this growing segment of the population.

Measurements of Weight Bearing Asymmetry Using the Nintendo Wii Fit Balance Board Are Not Reliable for Older Adults and Individuals With Stroke.

PubMed

Liuzzo, Derek M; Peters, Denise M; Middleton, Addie; Lanier, Wes; Chain, Rebecca; Barksdale, Brittany; Fritz, Stacy L

Clinicians and researchers have used bathroom scales, balance performance monitors with feedback, postural scale analysis, and force platforms to evaluate weight bearing asymmetry (WBA). Now video game consoles offer a novel alternative for assessing this construct. By using specialized software, the Nintendo Wii Fit balance board can provide reliable measurements of WBA in healthy, young adults. However, reliability of measurements obtained using only the factory settings to assess WBA in older adults and individuals with stroke has not been established. To determine whether measurements of WBA obtained using the Nintendo Wii Fit balance board and default settings are reliable in older adults and individuals with stroke. Weight bearing asymmetry was assessed using the Nintendo Wii Fit balance board in 2 groups of participants-individuals older than 65 years (n = 41) and individuals with stroke (n = 41). Participants were given a standardized set of instructions and were not provided auditory or visual feedback. Two trials were performed. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), standard error of measure (SEM), and minimal detectable change (MDC) scores were determined for each group. The ICC for the older adults sample was 0.59 (0.35-0.76) with SEM95 = 6.2% and MDC95 = 8.8%. The ICC for the sample including individuals with stroke was 0.60 (0.47-0.70) with SEM95 = 9.6% and MDC95 = 13.6%. Although measurements of WBA obtained using the Nintendo Wii Fit balance board, and its default factory settings, demonstrate moderate reliability in older adults and individuals with stroke, the relatively high associated SEM and MDC values substantially reduce the clinical utility of the Nintendo Wii Fit balance board as an assessment tool for WBA. Weight bearing asymmetry cannot be measured reliably in older adults and individuals with stroke using the Nintendo Wii Fit balance board without the use of specialized software.

Measurements of Weight Bearing Asymmetry Using the Nintendo Wii Fit Balance Board Are Not Reliable for Older Adults and Individuals With Stroke

PubMed Central

Liuzzo, Derek M.; Peters, Denise M.; Middleton, Addie; Lanier, Wes; Chain, Rebecca; Barksdale, Brittany; Fritz, Stacy L.

2015-01-01

Background Clinicians and researchers have used bathroom scales, balance performance monitors with feedback, postural scale analysis, and force platforms to evaluate weight bearing asymmetry (WBA). Now video game consoles offer a novel alternative for assessing this construct. By using specialized software, the Nintendo Wii Fit balance board can provide reliable measurements of WBA in healthy, young adults. However, reliability of measurements obtained using only the factory settings to assess WBA in older adults and individuals with stroke has not been established. Purpose To determine whether measurements of WBA obtained using the Nintendo Wii Fit balance board and default settings are reliable in older adults and individuals with stroke. Methods Weight bearing asymmetry was assessed using the Nintendo Wii Fit balance board in 2 groups of participants—individuals older than 65 years (n = 41) and individuals with stroke (n = 41). Participants were given a standardized set of instructions and were not provided auditory or visual feedback. Two trials were performed. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), standard error of measure (SEM), and minimal detectable change (MDC) scores were determined for each group. Results The ICC for the older adults sample was 0.59 (0.35–0.76) with SEM95= 6.2% and MDC95= 8.8%. The ICC for the sample including individuals with stroke was 0.60 (0.47–0.70) with SEM95= 9.6% and MDC95= 13.6%. Discussion Although measurements of WBA obtained using the Nintendo Wii Fit balance board, and its default factory settings, demonstrate moderate reliability in older adults and individuals with stroke, the relatively high associated SEM and MDC values substantially reduce the clinical utility of the Nintendo Wii Fit balance board as an assessment tool for WBA. Conclusions Weight bearing asymmetry cannot be measured reliably in older adults and individuals with stroke using the Nintendo Wii Fit balance board without the use of specialized software. PMID:26288237

TiO2-Containing Carbon Derived from a Metal-Organic Framework Composite: A Highly Active Catalyst for Oxidative Desulfurization.

PubMed

Bhadra, Biswa Nath; Song, Ji Yoon; Khan, Nazmul Abedin; Jhung, Sung Hwa

2017-09-13

A new metal-organic framework (MOF) composite consisting of Ti- and Zn-based MOFs (ZIF-8(x)@H 2 N-MIL-125; in brief, ZIF(x)@MOF) was designed and synthesized. The pristine MOF [H 2 N-MIL-125 (MOF)]- and an MOF-composite [ZIF(30)@MOF]-derived mesoporous carbons consisting of TiO 2 nanoparticles were prepared by pyrolysis (named MDC-P and MDC-C, respectively). MDC-C showed a higher surface area, larger pore sizes, and larger mesopore volumes than MDC-P. In addition, the TiO 2 nanoparticles on MDC-C have more uniform shapes and sizes and are smaller than those of MDC-P. The obtained MDC-C and MDC-P [together with MOF, ZIF(30)@MOF, pure/nanocrystalline TiO 2 , and activated carbon] were applied in the oxidative desulfurization reaction of dibenzothiophene in a model fuel. The MDC-C, even with a lower TiO 2 content than that of MDC-P, showed an outstanding catalytic performance, especially with a very low catalyst dose (i.e., a very high quantity of dibenzothiophene was converted per unit weight of the catalyst), fast kinetics (∼3 times faster than that for MDC-P), and a low activation energy (lower than that for any reported catalyst) for the oxidation of dibenzothiophene. The large mesopores of MDC-C and the well-dispersed/small TiO 2 might be the dominant factors for the superior catalytic conversions. The oxidative desulfurization of other sulfur-containing organic compounds with various electron densities was also studied with MDC-C to understand the mechanism of catalysis. Moreover, the MDC-C catalyst can be reused many times in the oxidative desulfurization reaction after a simple washing with acetone. Finally, composing MOFs and subsequent pyrolysis is suggested as an effective way to prepare a catalyst with well-dispersed active sites, large pores, and high mesoporosity.

Reliability, validity and minimal detectable change of computerized respiratory sounds in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

PubMed

Oliveira, Ana; Lage, Susan; Rodrigues, João; Marques, Alda

2017-11-17

Computerized respiratory sounds (CRS) are closely related to the movement of air within the tracheobronchial tree and are promising outcome measures in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, CRS measurement properties have been poorly tested. The aim of this study was to assess the reliability, validity and the minimal detectable changes (MDC) of CRS in patients with stable COPD. Fifty patients (36♂, 67.26 ± 9.31y, FEV 1 49.52 ± 19.67%predicted) were enrolled. CRS were recorded simultaneously at seven anatomic locations (trachea; right and left anterior, lateral and posterior chest). The number of crackles, wheeze occupation rate, median frequency (F50) and maximum intensity (Imax) were processed using validated algorithms. Within-day and between-days reliability, criterion and construct validity, validity to predict exacerbations and MDC were established. CRS presented moderate-to-excellent within-day reliability (ICC 1,3  ≥ 0.51; P < .05) and moderate-to-good between-days reliability (ICC 1,2  ≥ 0.47; P < .05) for most locations. Negligible-to-moderate correlations with FEV 1 %predicted were found (-0.53 < r s  < -0.28; P < .05), and the inspiratory number of crackles were the best discriminator between mild-to-moderate and severe-to-very severe airflow limitations (area under the curve >0.78). CRS correlated poorly with patient-reported outcomes (r s  < 0.48; P < .05) and did not predict exacerbations. Inspiratory number of crackles at posterior right chest, inspiratory F50 at trachea and anterior left chest and expiratory Imax at anterior right chest were simultaneously reliable and valid, and their MDC were 2.41, 55.27, 29.55 and 3.98, respectively. CRS are reliable and valid. Their use, integrated with other clinical and patient-reported measures, may fill the gap of assessing small airways and contribute toward a patient's comprehensive evaluation. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Energy-positive wastewater treatment and desalination in an integrated microbial desalination cell (MDC)-microbial electrolysis cell (MEC)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Yan; Styczynski, Jordyn; Huang, Yuankai; Xu, Zhiheng; McCutcheon, Jeffrey; Li, Baikun

2017-07-01

Simultaneous removal of nitrogen in municipal wastewater, metal in industrial wastewater and saline in seawater was achieved in an integrated microbial desalination cell-microbial electrolysis cell (MDC-MEC) system. Batch tests showed that more than 95.1% of nitrogen was oxidized by nitrification in the cathode of MDC and reduced by heterotrophic denitrification in the anode of MDC within 48 h, leading to the total nitrogen removal rate of 4.07 mg L-1 h-1. Combining of nitrogen removal and desalination in MDC effectively solved the problem of pH fluctuation in anode and cathode, and led to 63.7% of desalination. Power generation of MDC (293.7 mW m-2) was 2.9 times higher than the one without salt solution. The electric power of MDC was harvested by a capacitor circuit to supply metal reduction in a MEC, and 99.5% of lead (II) was removed within 48 h. A kinetic MDC model was developed to elucidate the correlation of voltage output and desalination efficiency. Ratio of wastewater and sea water was calculated for MDC optimal operation. Energy balance of nutrient removal, metal removal and desalination in the MDC-MEC system was positive (0.0267 kW h m-3), demonstrating the promise of utilizing low power output of MDCs.

Psychometric viability of measures of functional performance commonly used for people with dementia: a systematic review of measurement properties.

PubMed

Fox, Benjamin; Henwood, Timothy; Keogh, Justin; Neville, Christine

2016-08-01

Confidence in findings can only be drawn from measurement tools that have sound psychometric properties for the population with which they are used. Within a dementia specific population, measures of physical function have been poorly justified in exercise intervention studies, with justification of measures based on validity or reliability studies from dissimilar clinical populations, such as people with bronchitis or healthy older adults without dementia. To review the reliability and validity of quantitative measures of pre-identified physical function, as commonly used within exercise intervention literature for adults with dementia. Participants were adults, aged 65 years and older, with a confirmed medical diagnosis of dementia. n/a Desired studies were observational and cross-sectional and that assessed measures from a pre-identified list of measures of physical function. Studies that assessed the psychometric constructs of reliability and validity were targeted. COSMIN taxology was used to define reliability and validity. This included, but were not limited to, Intra-Class Correlations, Kappa, Cronbach's Alpha, Chi Squared, Standard Error of Measurement, Minimal Detectable Change and Limits of Agreement. Published material was sourced from the following four databases: MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and ISI Web of Science. Grey literature was searched for using ALOIS, Google Scholar and ProQuest. The COSMIN checklist was used to assess methodological quality of included studies. Assessment was completed by two reviewers independently. Reliability and validity data was extracted from included studies using standardized Joanna Briggs Institute data collection forms. Extraction was completed by two reviewers. A narrative synthesis of measurement properties of the tools used to measure physical function was performed. Quantitative meta-analysis was conducted for Intra-Class Correlation Coefficients only. With respect to relative reliability, studies reporting assessed measures had intraclass correlation coefficients greater than 0.71, indicating their suitability for use at a group level. However, a consistent finding among studies that included assessment of absolute reliability was that intra individual variation was too large for meaningful measurement of individuals. This was indicated by large Minimal Detectable Change (MDC) scores. Walk Speed has the smallest reported Mimimal Detectable Change score at 0.11m/s. This represented a change of 35% before statistical variation could be eliminated as the cause for this change. All measures had large MDC values. Walk Speed had the smallest MDC values at 0.11m/s, which represented a necessary change of 35%. Only a limited number of studies assessed the validity of measures. This supports the use of these measures in a very narrow selection of circumstances (see Summary of Findings). In summary, measures have shown appropriate levels of relative reliability. This supports their use at the group level. However, large levels of intra-individual variation undermine their applicability at the individual level. Limited studies of validity were available to this review, which limits a conclusion on whether measures are valid for people with dementia.

Reliability of sonographic assessment of tendinopathy in tennis elbow.

PubMed

Poltawski, Leon; Ali, Syed; Jayaram, Vijay; Watson, Tim

2012-01-01

To assess the reliability and compute the minimum detectable change using sonographic scales to quantify the extent of pathology and hyperaemia in the common extensor tendon in people with tennis elbow. The lateral elbows of 19 people with tennis elbow were assessed sonographically twice, 1-2 weeks apart. Greyscale and power Doppler images were recorded for subsequent rating of abnormalities. Tendon thickening, hypoechogenicity, fibrillar disruption and calcification were each rated on four-point scales, and scores were summed to provide an overall rating of structural abnormality; hyperaemia was scored on a five point scale. Inter-rater reliability was established using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) to compare scores assigned independently to the same set of images by a radiologist and a physiotherapist with training in musculoskeletal imaging. Test-retest reliability was assessed by comparing scores assigned by the physiotherapist to images recorded at the two sessions. The minimum detectable change (MDC) was calculated from the test-retest reliability data. ICC values for inter-rater reliability ranged from 0.35 (95% CI: 0.05, 0.60) for fibrillar disruption to 0.77 (0.55, 0.88) for overall greyscale score, and 0.89 (0.79, 0.95) for hyperaemia. Test-retest reliability ranged from 0.70 (0.48, 0.84) for tendon thickening to 0.82 (0.66, 0.90) for overall greyscale score and 0.86 (0.73, 0.93) for calcification. The MDC for the greyscale total score was 2.0/12 and for the hyperaemia score was 1.1/5. The sonographic scoring system used in this study may be used reliably to quantify tendon abnormalities and change over time. A relatively inexperienced imager can conduct the assessment and use the rating scales reliably.

Predicting Total Sick Days Experienced by an Active Duty Military Population

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-05-07

system. 0 a - MDC 05, Disease and disorders of the circulatory system. o ma - MDC 17, Myeloproliferative diseases and disorders, and 0poorly...differentiated neoplasms . < z- MDC 18, Infectious and parasitic diseases (systemic or C fi z -4unspecified sites). M x MDCG3: Ob/Gyn. - MDC 13, Diseases and

Verification of an improved computational design procedure for TWT-dynamic refocuser-MDC systems with secondary electron emission losses

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ramins, P.; Force, D. A.; Palmer, R. W.; Dayton, J. A., Jr.; Kosmahl, H. G.

1986-01-01

A computational procedure for the design of TWT-refocuser-MDC systems was used to design a short 'dynamic' refocusing system and highly efficient four-stage depressed collector for a 200-W 8-18-GHz TWT. The computations were carried out with advanced multidimensional computer programs which model the electron beam as a series of disks of charge and follow their trajectories from the RF input of the TWT, through the slow-wave structure and refocusing section, to their points of impact in the depressed collector. Secondary emission losses in the MDC were treated semiquantitatively by injecting a representative beam of secondary electrons into the MDC analysis at the point of impact of each primary beam. A comparison of computed and measured TWT and MDC performance showed very good agreement. The electrodes of the MDC were fabricated from a particular form of isotropic graphite that was selected for its low secondary electron yield, thermal expansion characteristics, ease of machinability and vacuum properties. This MDC was tested at CW for more than 1000 h with negligible degradation in TWT and MDC performances.

Medical decision-making capacity and its cognitive predictors in progressive MS: Preliminary evidence.

PubMed

Gerstenecker, Adam; Lowry, Kathleen; Myers, Terina; Bashir, Khurram; Triebel, Kristen L; Martin, Roy C; Marson, Daniel C

2017-09-15

Medical decision-making capacity (MDC) refers to the ability to make informed decisions about treatment and declines in cognition are associated with declines in MDC across multiple disease entities. However, although it is well known that cognitive impairment is prevalent in multiple sclerosis (MS), little is known about MDC in the disease. Data from 22 persons with progressive MS and 18 healthy controls were analyzed. All diagnoses were made by a board-certified neurologist with experience in MS. All study participants were administered a vignette-based measure of MDC and also a neuropsychological battery. Performance on three MDC consent standards (i.e., Appreciation, Reasoning, Understanding) was significantly lower for people with progressive MS as compared to healthy controls. In the progressive MS group, verbal fluency was the primary cognitive predictor for both Reasoning and Understanding consent standards. Verbal learning and memory was the primary cognitive predictor for Appreciation. MS severity was not significantly correlated with any MDC variable. MDC is a complex and cognitively mediated functional ability that is impaired in many people with progressive MS. Verbal measures of fluency and memory are strongly associated with MDC performances in the current sample of people with MS and could potentially be utilized to quickly screen for MDC impairment in MS. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Simultaneous Removal of Phenol and Dissolved Solids from Wastewater Using Multichambered Microbial Desalination Cell.

PubMed

Pradhan, Harapriya; Jain, Sumat Chand; Ghangrekar, Makarand M

2015-12-01

Microbial desalination cell (MDC) has great potential toward direct electricity generation from wastewater and concurrent desalination through potential difference developed due to microbial activity. Degradation of phenol by isolate Pseudomonas aeruginosa in anodic chamber and simultaneous desalination of water in middle desalination chamber of multichamber MDC is demonstrated in this study. Performance of the MDCs with different anodic inoculum conditions, namely pure culture of P. aeruginosa (MDC-1), 50 % v/v mixture of P. aeruginosa and anaerobic mixed consortia (MDC-2) and anaerobic mixed consortia (MDC-3), was evaluated to compare the phenol degradation in anodic chamber, bioelectricity generation, and simultaneous total dissolved solids (TDS) removal from saline water in desalination chamber. Synergistic effect between P. aeruginosa and mixed anaerobic consortia as inoculum was evident in MDC-2 demonstrating phenol degradation of 90 %, TDS removal of 75 % in 72 h of reaction time along with higher power generation of 27.5 mW/m(2) as compared to MDC-1 (95 %, 64 %, 12.8 mW/m(2), respectively) and MDC-3 (58 %, 52 %, 4.8 mW/m(2), respectively). The results illustrate that the multichamber MDC-2 is effective for simultaneous removal of phenol and dissolved solids contained in industrial wastewaters.

Serum macrophage-derived chemokine (MDC) levels are closely related with the disease activity of atopic dermatitis

PubMed Central

KAKINUMA, T; NAKAMURA, K; WAKUGAWA, M; MITSUI, H; TADA, Y; SAEKI, H; TORII, H; KOMINE, M; ASAHINA, A; TAMAKI, K

2002-01-01

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic and relapsing inflammatory skin disease characterized by the predominant infiltration of T cells, eosinophils and macrophages in lesional skin. Recently, macrophage-derived chemokine (MDC)/CCL22, a CC chemokine, was identified as a selective chemoattractant for CC chemokine receptor 4 (CCR4)-expressing cells, in addition to thymus and activation-regulated chemokine (TARC). We have previously reported that serum TARC levels correlate with the severity of AD. In this report, we investigated the participation of MDC in AD. First, we measured serum MDC levels in 45 patients with AD, 25 patients with psoriasis vulgaris and 25 healthy controls. Serum MDC levels in AD patients were significantly higher than those in healthy controls and psoriasis patients. Furthermore, the increases in serum MDC levels in AD patients were greater in the severely affected group than in the moderate or mild groups. We compared serum MDC levels in 11 AD patients, before and after treatment, and observed a significant decrease after treatment. Moreover, the serum MDC levels significantly correlated with the Scoring AD (SCORAD) index, serum soluble (s) E-selectin levels, serum soluble interleukin-2 receptor (sIL-2R) levels, serum TARC levels and eosinophil numbers in peripheral blood. Our study strongly suggests that serum MDC levels have a notable correlation with disease activity and that MDC, as well as the CC chemokine TARC, may be involved in the pathogenesis of AD. PMID:11876749

MDC9, a widely expressed cellular disintegrin containing cytoplasmic SH3 ligand domains

PubMed Central

1996-01-01

Cellular disintegrins are a family of proteins that are related to snake venom integrin ligands and metalloproteases. We have cloned and sequenced the mouse and human homologue of a widely expressed cellular disintegrin, which we have termed MDC9 (for metalloprotease/disintegrin/cysteine-rich protein 9). The deduced mouse and human protein sequences are 82% identical. MDC9 contains several distinct protein domains: a signal sequence is followed by a prodomain and a domain with sequence similarity to snake venom metalloproteases, a disintegrin domain, a cysteine-rich region, an EGF repeat, a membrane anchor, and a cytoplasmic tail. The cytoplasmic tail of MDC9 has two proline-rich sequences which can bind the SH3 domain of Src, and may therefore function as SH3 ligand domains. Western blot analysis shows that MDC9 is an approximately 84-kD glycoprotein in all mouse tissues examined, and in NIH 3T3 fibroblast and C2C12 myoblast mouse cell lines. MDC9 can be both cell surface biotinylated and 125I-labeled in NIH 3T3 mouse fibroblasts, indicating that the protein is present on the plasma membrane. Expression of MDC9 in COS-7 cells yields an 84-kD protein, and immunofluorescence analysis of COS-7 cells expressing MDC9 shows a staining pattern that is consistent with a plasma membrane localization. The apparent molecular mass of 84 kD suggests that MDC9 contains a membrane-anchored metalloprotease and disintegrin domain. We propose that MDC9 might function as a membrane-anchored integrin ligand or metalloprotease, or that MDC9 may combine both activities in one protein. PMID:8647900

The influence of dose distribution on treatment outcome in the SCOPE 1 oesophageal cancer trial.

PubMed

Carrington, Rhys; Spezi, Emiliano; Gwynne, Sarah; Dutton, Peter; Hurt, Chris; Staffurth, John; Crosby, Thomas

2016-02-06

The first aim of this study was to assess plan quality using a conformity index (CI) and analyse its influence on patient outcome. The second aim was to identify whether clinical and technological factors including planning treatment volume (PTV) volume and treatment delivery method could be related to the CI value. By extending the original concept of the mean distance to conformity (MDC) index, the OverMDC and UnderMDC of the 95 % isodose line (50Gy prescribed dose) to the PTV was calculated for 97 patients from the UK SCOPE 1 trial (ISCRT47718479). Data preparation was carried out in CERR, with Kaplan-Meier and multivariate analysis undertaken in EUCLID and further tests in Microsoft Excel and IBM's SPSS. A statistically significant breakpoint in the overall survival data, independent of cetuximab, was found with OverMDC (4.4 mm, p < 0.05). This was not the case with UnderMDC. There was a statistically significant difference in PTV volume either side of the OverMDC breakpoint (Mann Whitney p < 0.001) and in OverMDC value dependent on the treatment delivery method (mean IMRT = 2.1 mm, mean 3D-CRT = 4.1 mm Mann Whitney p < 0.001). Re-planning the worst performing patients according to OverMDC from 3D-CRT to VMAT resulted in a mean reduction in OverMDC of 2.8 mm (1.6-4.0 mm). OverMDC was not significant in multivariate analysis that included age, sex, staging, tumour type, and position. Although not significant when included in multivariate analysis, we have shown in univariate analysis that a patient's OverMDC is correlated with overall survival. OverMDC is strongly related to IMRT and to a lesser extent with PTV volume. We recommend that VMAT planning should be used for oesophageal planning when available and that attention should be paid to the conformity of the 95 % to the PTV.

Reliability of externally fixed dynamometry hamstring strength testing in elite youth football players.

PubMed

Wollin, Martin; Purdam, Craig; Drew, Michael K

2016-01-01

To investigate inter and intra-tester reliability of an externally fixed dynamometry unilateral hamstring strength test, in the elite sports setting. Reliability study. Sixteen, injury-free, elite male youth football players (age=16.81±0.54 years, height=180.22±5.29cm, weight 73.88±6.54kg, BMI=22.57±1.42) gave written informed consent. Unilateral maximum isometric peak hamstring force was evaluated by externally fixed dynamometry for inter-tester, intra-day and intra-tester, inter-week reliability. The test position was standardised to correlate with the terminal swing phase of the gait running cycle. Inter and intra-tester values demonstrated good to high levels of reliability. The intra-class coefficient (ICC) for inter-tester, intra-day reliability was 0.87 (95% CI=0.75-0.93) with standard error of measure percentage (SEM%) 4.7 and minimal detectable change percentage (MDC%) 12.9. Intra-tester, inter-week reliability results were ICC 0.86 (95% CI, 0.74-0.93), SEM% 5.0 and MDC% 14.0. This study demonstrates good to high inter and intra-tester reliability of isometric externally fixed dynamometry unilateral hamstring strength testing in the regular elite sport setting involving elite male youth football players. The intra-class coefficient in association with the low standard error of measure and minimal detectable change percentages suggest that this procedure is appropriate for clinical and academic use as well as monitoring hamstring strength in the elite sport setting. Crown Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Reliable sagittal plane kinematic gait assessments are feasible using low-cost webcam technology.

PubMed

Saner, Robert J; Washabaugh, Edward P; Krishnan, Chandramouli

2017-07-01

Three-dimensional (3-D) motion capture systems are commonly used for gait analysis because they provide reliable and accurate measurements. However, the downside of this approach is that it is expensive and requires technical expertise; thus making it less feasible in the clinic. To address this limitation, we recently developed and validated (using a high-precision walking robot) a low-cost, two-dimensional (2-D) real-time motion tracking approach using a simple webcam and LabVIEW Vision Assistant. The purpose of this study was to establish the repeatability and minimal detectable change values of hip and knee sagittal plane gait kinematics recorded using this system. Twenty-one healthy subjects underwent two kinematic assessments while walking on a treadmill at a range of gait velocities. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) and minimal detectable change (MDC) values were calculated for commonly used hip and knee kinematic parameters to demonstrate the reliability of the system. Additionally, Bland-Altman plots were generated to examine the agreement between the measurements recorded on two different days. The system demonstrated good to excellent reliability (ICC>0.75) for all the gait parameters tested on this study. The MDC values were typically low (<5°) for most of the parameters. The Bland-Altman plots indicated that there was no systematic error or bias in kinematic measurements and showed good agreement between measurements obtained on two different days. These results indicate that kinematic gait assessments using webcam technology can be reliably used for clinical and research purposes. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Relative and absolute test-retest reliabilities of pressure pain threshold in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

PubMed

Srimurugan Pratheep, Neeraja; Madeleine, Pascal; Arendt-Nielsen, Lars

2018-04-25

Pressure pain threshold (PPT) and PPT maps are commonly used to quantify and visualize mechanical pain sensitivity. Although PPT's have frequently been reported from patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA), the absolute and relative reliability of PPT assessments remain to be determined. Thus, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the test-retest relative and absolute reliability of PPT in KOA. For that purpose, intra- and interclass correlation coefficient (ICC) as well as the standard error of measurement (SEM) and the minimal detectable change (MDC) values within eight anatomical locations covering the most painful knee of KOA patients was measured. Twenty KOA patients participated in two sessions with a period of 2 weeks±3 days apart. PPT's were assessed over eight anatomical locations covering the knee and two remote locations over tibialis anterior and brachioradialis. The patients rated their maximum pain intensity during the past 24 h and prior to the recordings on a visual analog scale (VAS), and completed The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and PainDetect surveys. The ICC, SEM and MDC between the sessions were assessed. The ICC for the individual variability was expressed with coefficient of variance (CV). Bland-Altman plots were used to assess potential bias in the dataset. The ICC ranged from 0.85 to 0.96 for all the anatomical locations which is considered "almost perfect". CV was lowest in session 1 and ranged from 44.2 to 57.6%. SEM for comparison ranged between 34 and 71 kPa and MDC ranged between 93 and 197 kPa with a mean PPT ranged from 273.5 to 367.7 kPa in session 1 and 268.1-331.3 kPa in session 2. The analysis of Bland-Altman plot showed no systematic bias. PPT maps showed that the patients had lower thresholds in session 2, but no significant difference was observed for the comparison between the sessions for PPT or VAS. No correlations were seen between PainDetect and PPT and PainDetect and WOMAC. Almost perfect relative and absolute reliabilities were found for the assessment of PPT's for KOA patients. The present investigation implicates that PPT's is reliable for assessing pain sensitivity and sensitization in KOA patients.

Reliability of isometric subtalar pronator and supinator strength testing.

PubMed

Hagen, Marco; Lahner, Matthias; Winhuysen, Martin; Maiwald, Christian

2015-01-01

Due to the specific anatomy of the subtalar joint with its oblique axis, isometric pronator and supinator strength is not well documented. The purpose of this study was to determine intra- and between-session reliability of pronator and supinator strength and lower leg muscle activity measurements during maximum voluntary isometric contractions (MVIC). Pronator and supinator peak torques (PT), with and without supplementary visual muscle strength biofeedback (FB), and muscular activities of peroneus longus (PL) and tibialis anterior (TA) were assessed twice 3 days apart by the same examiner in 21 healthy young male adults (mean age: 27.6 years; SD = 3.9). Limits of agreement (LoA) and minimum detectable change (MDC) were evaluated. By applying FB, reliability of both pronator and supinator PT was improved: LoA were reduced from 32% to 26% and from 20% to 18% and MDC from 20% to 15% and from 16% to 12% in supinator and pronator PT, respectively. Learning effects in pronator and supinator PT (p < 0.05), which were present without FB, were eliminated using FB. Except for TA during pronation, muscle activities showed low reliability indicated by LoA of 51% to 79%. Using supplementary biofeedback, isometric subtalar pronator and supinator strength testing is reliable in healthy subjects. LoA of 18% and 26% have to be exceeded for pronator and supinator PT, respectively, to detect relevant effects in repeated measures.

Myasthenia Gravis Impairment Index: Responsiveness, meaningful change, and relative efficiency.

PubMed

Barnett, Carolina; Bril, Vera; Kapral, Moira; Kulkarni, Abhaya V; Davis, Aileen M

2017-12-05

To study responsiveness and meaningful change of the Myasthenia Gravis Impairment Index (MGII) and its relative efficiency compared to other measures. We enrolled 95 patients receiving prednisone, IV immunoglobulin (IVIg), or plasma exchange (PLEX) and 54 controls. Patients were assessed with the MGII and other measures-including the Quantitative Myasthenia Gravis Score, Myasthenia Gravis Composite, and Myasthenia Gravis Activities of Daily Living-at baseline and 3-4 weeks after treatment. Statistical markers of responsiveness included between-groups and within-group differences, and we estimated the relative efficiency of the MGII compared to other measures. Patient-meaningful change was assessed with an anchor-based method, using the patient's impression of change. We determined the minimal detectable change (MDC) and the minimal important difference (MID) at the group and individual level. Treated patients had a higher change in MGII scores than controls (analysis of covariance p < 0.001). The ocular domain changed more with prednisone than with IVIg/PLEX (effect size 0.67 and 0.13, analysis of covariance p = 0.001). The generalized domain changed more with IVIg/PLEX than with prednisone (effect size 0.50 and 0.22, analysis of covariance p = 0.07). For the total MGII score, the individual MDC95 was 9.1 and the MID was 5.5 for individuals and 8.1 for groups. Relative efficiency ratios were >1 favoring the MGII. The MGII demonstrated responsiveness to prednisone, IVIg, and PLEX in patients with myasthenia. There is a differential response in ocular and generalized symptoms to type of therapy. The MGII has higher relative efficiency than comparison measures and is viable for use in clinical trials. Copyright © 2017 The Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. on behalf of the American Academy of Neurology.

"Reliability of the Norwegian version of the short physical performance battery in older people with and without dementia".

PubMed

Olsen, Cecilie Fromholt; Bergland, Astrid

2017-06-09

The purpose of the study was to establish the test-retest reliability of the Norwegian version of the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). This was a cross- sectional reliability study. A convenience sample of 61 older adults with a mean age of 88.4(8.1) was tested by two different physiotherapists at two time points. The mean time interval between tests was 2.5 days. The Intraclass Correlation Coefficient model 3.1 (ICC, 3.1) with 95% confidence intervals as well as the weighted Kappa (K) were used as measures of relative reliability. The Standard Error of Measurement (SEM) and Minimal Detectable Change (MDC) were used to measure absolute reliability. The results were also analyzed for a subgroup of 24 older people with dementia. The ICC reflected high relative reliability for the SPPB summary score and the 4 m walk test (4mwt), both for the total sample (ICC = 0.92, and 0.91 respectively)) and for the subgroup with dementia (ICC = 0.84 and 0.90 respectively). Furthermore, weighted Ks for the SPPB subscales were 0.64 for the chair stand, 0.80 for gait and 0.52 for balance for the total sample and almost identical for the subgroup with dementia. MDC-values at the 95% confidence intervals (MDC95) were calculated at 0.8 for the total score of SPPB and 0.39 m/s for the 4mwt in the total sample. For the subgroup with dementia MDC95 was 1.88 for the total score of SPPB and 0.28 m/s for 4mwt. The SPPB total score and the timed walking test showed overall high relative and absolute reliability for the total sample indicating that the Norwegian version of the SPPB is reliable when used by trained physiotherapists with older people. The reliability of the Norwegian SPPB in older people with dementia seems high, but due to a small sample size this needs further investigation.

Determining Reliability of a Dual-Task Functional Mobility Protocol for Individuals With Lower Extremity Amputation.

PubMed

Hunter, Susan W; Frengopoulos, Courtney; Holmes, Jeff; Viana, Ricardo; Payne, Michael W

2018-04-01

To determine the relative and absolute reliability of a dual-task functional mobility assessment. Cross-sectional study. Academic rehabilitation hospital. Individuals (N=60) with lower extremity amputation attending an outpatient amputee clinic (mean age, 58.21±12.59y; 18, 80% male) who were stratified into 3 groups: (1) transtibial amputation of vascular etiology (n=20); (2) transtibial amputation of nonvascular etiology (n=20); and (3) transfemoral or bilateral amputation of any etiology (n=20). Not applicable. Time to complete the L Test measured functional mobility under single- and dual-task conditions. The addition of a cognitive task (serial subtractions by 3's) created dual-task conditions. Single-task performance on the cognitive task was also reported. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) measured relative reliability; SEM and minimal detectable change with a 95% confidence interval (MDC 95 ) measured absolute reliability. Bland-Altman plots measured agreement between assessments. Relative reliability results were excellent for all 3 groups. Values for the dual-task L Test for those with transtibial amputation of vascular etiology (n=20; mean age, 60.36±7.84y; 19, 90% men) were ICC=.98 (95% confidence interval [CI], .94-.99), SEM=1.36 seconds, and MDC 95 =3.76 seconds; for those with transtibial amputation of nonvascular etiology (n=20; mean age, 55.85±14.08y; 17, 85% men), values were ICC=.93 (95% CI, .80-.98), SEM=1.34 seconds, and MDC 95 =3.71 seconds; and for those with transfemoral or bilateral amputation (n=20; mean age, 58.21±14.88y; 13, 65% men), values were ICC=.998 (95% CI, .996-.999), SEM=1.03 seconds, and MDC 95 =2.85 seconds. Bland-Altman plots indicated that assessments did not vary systematically for each group. This dual-task assessment protocol achieved approved levels of relative reliability values for the 3 groups tested. This protocol may be used clinically or in research settings to assess the interaction between cognition and functional mobility in the population with lower extremity amputation. Copyright © 2018 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Reliability and group differences in quantitative cervicothoracic measures among individuals with and without chronic neck pain

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Clinicians frequently rely on subjective categorization of impairments in mobility, strength, and endurance for clinical decision-making; however, these assessments are often unreliable and lack sensitivity to change. The objective of this study was to determine the inter-rater reliability, minimum detectable change (MDC), and group differences in quantitative cervicothoracic measures for individuals with and without chronic neck pain (NP). Methods Nineteen individuals with NP and 20 healthy controls participated in this case control study. Two physical therapists performed a 30-minute examination on separate days. A handheld dynamometer, gravity inclinometer, ruler, and stopwatch were used to quantify cervical range of motion (ROM), cervical muscle strength and endurance, and scapulothoracic muscle length and strength, respectively. Results Intraclass correlation coefficients for inter-rater reliability were significantly greater than zero for most impairment measures, with point estimates ranging from 0.45 to 0.93. The NP group exhibited reduced cervical ROM (P ≤ 0.012) and muscle strength (P ≤ 0.038) in most movement directions, reduced cervical extensor endurance (P = 0.029), and reduced rhomboid and middle trapezius muscle strength (P ≤ 0.049). Conclusions Results demonstrate the feasibility of obtaining objective cervicothoracic impairment measures with acceptable inter-rater agreement across time. The clinical utility of these measures is supported by evidence of impaired mobility, strength, and endurance among patients with NP, with corresponding MDC values that can help establish benchmarks for clinically significant change. PMID:23114092

Mediator of DNA damage checkpoint 1 (MDC1) contributes to high NaCl-induced activation of the osmoprotective transcription factor TonEBP/OREBP.

PubMed

Kunin, Margarita; Dmitrieva, Natalia I; Gallazzini, Morgan; Shen, Rong-Fong; Wang, Guanghui; Burg, Maurice B; Ferraris, Joan D

2010-08-11

Hypertonicity, such as induced by high NaCl, increases the activity of the transcription factor TonEBP/OREBP whose target genes increase osmoprotective organic osmolytes and heat shock proteins. We used mass spectrometry to analyze proteins that coimmunoprecipitate with TonEBP/OREBP in order to identify ones that might contribute to its high NaCl-induced activation. We identified 20 unique peptides from Mediator of DNA Damage Checkpoint 1 (MDC1) with high probability. The identification was confirmed by Western analysis. We used small interfering RNA knockdown of MDC1 to characterize its osmotic function. Knocking down MDC1 reduces high NaCl-induced increases in TonEBP/OREBP transcriptional and transactivating activity, but has no significant effect on its nuclear localization. We confirm six previously known phosphorylation sites in MDC1, but do not find evidence that high NaCl increases phosphorylation of MDC1. It is suggestive that MDC1 acts as a DNA damage response protein since hypertonicity reversibly increases DNA breaks, and other DNA damage response proteins, like ATM, also associate with TonEBP/OREBP and contribute to its activation by hypertonicity. MDC1 associates with TonEBP/OREBP and contributes to high NaCl-induced increase of that factor's transcriptional activity.

Validity and Reliability of New Agility Test among Elite and Subelite under 14-Soccer Players

PubMed Central

Hachana, Younés; Chaabène, Helmi; Ben Rajeb, Ghada; Khlifa, Riadh; Aouadi, Ridha; Chamari, Karim; Gabbett, Tim J.

2014-01-01

Background Agility is a determinant component in soccer performance. This study aimed to evaluate the reliability and sensitivity of a “Modified Illinois change of direction test” (MICODT) in ninety-five U-14 soccer players. Methods A total of 95 U-14 soccer players (mean ± SD: age: 13.61±1.04 years; body mass: 30.52±4.54 kg; height: 1.57±0.1 m) from a professional and semi-professional soccer academy, participated to this study. Sixty of them took part in reliability analysis and thirty-two in sensitivity analysis. Results The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) that aims to assess relative reliability of the MICODT was of 0.99, and its standard error of measurement (SEM) for absolute reliability was <5% (1.24%). The MICODT’s capacity to detect change is “good”, it’s SEM (0.10 s) was ≤ SWC (0.33 s). The MICODT is significantly correlated to the Illinois change of direction speed test (ICODT) (r = 0.77; p<0.0001). The ICODT’s MDC95 (0.64 s) was twice about the MICODT’s MDC95 (0.28 s), indicating that MICODT presents better ability to detect true changes than ICODT. The MICODT provided good sensitivity since elite U-14 soccer players were better than non-elite one on MICODT (p = 0.005; dz = 1.01 [large]). This was supported by an area under the ROC curve of 0.77 (CI 95%, 0.59 to 0.89, p<0.0008). The difference observed in these two groups in ICODT was not statistically significant (p = 0.14; dz = 0.51 [small]), showing poor discriminant ability. Conclusion MICODT can be considered as more suitable protocol for assessing agility performance level than ICODT in U-14 soccer players. PMID:24752193

Does cervical lordosis change after spinal manipulation for non-specific neck pain? A prospective cohort study.

PubMed

Shilton, Michael; Branney, Jonathan; de Vries, Bas Penning; Breen, Alan C

2015-01-01

The association between cervical lordosis (sagittal alignment) and neck pain is controversial. Further, it is unclear whether spinal manipulative therapy can change cervical lordosis. This study aimed to determine whether cervical lordosis changes after a course of spinal manipulation for non-specific neck pain. Posterior tangents of C2 and C6 were drawn on the lateral cervical fluoroscopic images of 29 patients with subacute/chronic non-specific neck pain and 30 healthy volunteers matched for age and gender, recruited August 2011 to April 2013. The resultant angle was measured using 'Image J' digital geometric software. The intra-observer repeatability (measurement error and reliability) and intra-subject repeatability (minimum detectable change (MDC) over 4 weeks) were determined in healthy volunteers. A comparison of cervical lordosis was made between patients and healthy volunteers at baseline. Change in lordosis between baseline and 4-week follow-up was determined in patients receiving spinal manipulation. Intra-observer measurement error for cervical lordosis was acceptable (SEM 3.6°) and reliability was substantial ICC 0.98, 95 % CI 0.962-0991). The intra-subject MDC however, was large (13.5°). There was no significant difference between lordotic angles in patients and healthy volunteers (p = 0.16). The mean cervical lordotic increase over 4 weeks in patients was 2.1° (9.2) which was not significant (p = 0.12). This study found no difference in cervical lordosis (sagittal alignment) between patients with mild non-specific neck pain and matched healthy volunteers. Furthermore, there was no significant change in cervical lordosis in patients after 4 weeks of cervical spinal manipulation.

Test-retest reliability and minimal detectable change scores for the timed "up & go" test, the six-minute walk test, and gait speed in people with Alzheimer disease.

PubMed

Ries, Julie D; Echternach, John L; Nof, Leah; Gagnon Blodgett, Michelle

2009-06-01

With the increasing incidence of Alzheimer disease (AD), determining the validity and reliability of outcome measures for people with this disease is necessary. The goals of this study were to assess test-retest reliability of data for the Timed "Up & Go" Test (TUG), the Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), and gait speed and to calculate minimal detectable change (MDC) scores for each outcome measure. Performance differences between groups with mild to moderate AD and moderately severe to severe AD (as determined by the Functional Assessment Staging [FAST] scale) were studied. This was a prospective, nonexperimental, descriptive methodological study. Background data collected for 51 people with AD included: use of an assistive device, Mini-Mental Status Examination scores, and FAST scale scores. Each participant engaged in 2 test sessions, separated by a 30- to 60-minute rest period, which included 2 TUG trials, 1 6MWT trial, and 2 gait speed trials using a computerized gait assessment system. A specific cuing protocol was followed to achieve optimal performance during test sessions. Test-retest reliability values for the TUG, the 6MWT, and gait speed were high for all participants together and for the mild to moderate AD and moderately severe to severe AD groups separately (intraclass correlation coefficients > or = .973); however, individual variability of performance also was high. Calculated MDC scores at the 90% confidence interval were: TUG=4.09 seconds, 6MWT=33.5 m (110 ft), and gait speed=9.4 cm/s. The 2 groups were significantly different in performance of clinical tests, with the participants who were more cognitively impaired being more physically and functionally impaired. A single researcher for data collection limited sample numbers and prohibited blinding to dementia level. The TUG, the 6MWT, and gait speed are reliable outcome measures for use with people with AD, recognizing that individual variability of performance is high. Minimal detectable change scores at the 90% confidence interval can be used to assess change in performance over time and the impact of treatment.

Reliability, validity and minimal detectable change of the Mini-BESTest in Greek participants with chronic stroke.

PubMed

Lampropoulou, Sofia I; Billis, Evdokia; Gedikoglou, Ingrid A; Michailidou, Christina; Nowicky, Alexander V; Skrinou, Dimitra; Michailidi, Fotini; Chandrinou, Danae; Meligkoni, Margarita

2018-02-23

This study aimed to investigate the psychometric characteristics of reliability, validity and ability to detect change of a newly developed balance assessment tool, the Mini-BESTest, in Greek patients with stroke. A prospective, observational design study with test-retest measures was conducted. A convenience sample of 21 Greek patients with chronic stroke (14 male, 7 female; age of 63 ± 16 years) was recruited. Two independent examiners administered the scale, for the inter-rater reliability, twice within 10 days for the test-retest reliability. Bland Altman Analysis for repeated measures assessed the absolute reliability and the Standard Error of Measurement (SEM) and the Minimum Detectable Change at 95% confidence interval (MDC 95% ) were established. The Greek Mini-BESTest (Mini-BESTest GR ) was correlated with the Greek Berg Balance Scale (BBS GR ) for assessing the concurrent validity and with the Timed Up and Go (TUG), the Functional Reach Test (FRT) and the Greek Falls Efficacy Scale-International (FES-I GR ) for the convergent validity. The Mini-BESTestGR demonstrated excellent inter-rater reliability (ICC (95%CI) = 0.997 (0.995-0.999, SEM = 0.46) with the scores of two raters within the limits of agreement (mean dif  = -0.143 ± 0.727, p > 0.05) and test-retest reliability (ICC (95%CI) = 0.966 (0.926-0.988), SEM = 1.53). Additionally, the Mini-BESTest GR yielded very strong to moderate correlations with BBS GR (r = 0.924, p < 0.001), TUG (r = -0.823, p < 0.001), FES-I GR (r = -0.734, p < 0.001) and FRT (r = 0.689, p < 0.001). MDC 95 was 4.25 points. The exceptionally high reliability and the equally good validity of the Mini-BESTest GR , strongly support its utility in Greek people with chronic stroke. Its ability to identify clinically meaningful changes and falls risk need further investigation.

The mechanism of tubulin-colchicine recognition--a kinetic study of the binding of a bicyclic colchicine analogue with a minor modification of the A ring.

PubMed

Dumortier, C; Potenziano, J L; Bane, S; Engelborghs, Y

1997-10-01

2-Methoxy-5-(2',3',4'-trimethoxy)-2,4,6-cycloheptatrien-1-one (MTC) is a colchicine analogue that lacks the B ring. 2-Methoxy-5-(2',4'-dimethoxyphenyl)-2,4,6-cycloheptatrien-1-one (MD) is an A-ring analogue of MTC, in which one methoxy group is replaced by a hydrogen atom. This paper describes the kinetic features of MDC binding to tubulin, and compares its behaviour with MTC to analyse the effect of the A-ring modification on the recognition process by tubulin. Binding is accompanied by a strong enhancement of MDC fluorescence and quenching of protein fluorescence. The kinetic and thermodynamic parameters were obtained from fluorescence stopped-flow measurements. The kinetics are described by a single exponential, indicating that this drug does not discriminate between the different tubulin isotypes. The observed pseudo-first-order rate constant of the fluorescence increase upon binding increases in a non-linear way, indicating that this ligand binds with a similar overall mechanism as colchicine and MTC, consisting of a fast initial binding of low affinity followed by a slower isomerisation step leading to full affinity. The K1 and k2 values for MDC at 25 degrees C were 540 +/- 65 M(-1) and 70 +/- 6 s(-1) respectively. From the temperature dependence, a reaction enthalpy change (deltaH(o)1) of the initial binding of 49 +/- 11 kJ/mol(-1) and an activation energy for the second step of 28 +/- 9 kJ/mol(-1) were calculated. Displacement experiments of bound MDC by MTC allowed the determination of a rate constant of reverse isomerisation of 0.60 +/- 0.07 s(-1) at 25 degrees C and the activation energy of 81 +/- 6 kJ/mol(-1). The overall binding constant was (6.3 +/- 0.2) x 10(4) M(-1) at 25 degrees C. Combination of these results with the kinetic parameters for association gives a full characterisation of the enthalpy pathway for the binding of MDC. The pathway of MDC is shown to differ considerably from that of MTC binding. Since its structural difference is located in ring A, this result indicates the use of ring A in the first step. The kinetics of the binding of MDC in the presence of some A-ring colchicine analogues (podophyllotoxin, 3',4',5'-trimethoxyacetophenone and N-acetylmescaline) and a C-ring analogue (tropolone methyl ether) suggest that the A and C rings are involved in the binding of MDC.

Role of NADPH oxidases in inducing a selective increase of oxidant stress and cyclin D1 and checkpoint 1 over-expression during progression to human gastric adenocarcinoma.

PubMed

Montalvo-Javé, Eduardo E; Olguín-Martínez, Marisela; Hernández-Espinosa, Diego R; Sánchez-Sevilla, Lourdes; Mendieta-Condado, Edgar; Contreras-Zentella, Martha L; Oñate-Ocaña, Luis F; Escalante-Tatersfield, Tomás; Echegaray-Donde, Agustín; Ruiz-Molina, Juan M; Herrera, Miguel F; Morán, Julio; Hernández-Muñoz, Rolando

2016-04-01

Gastric cancer is one of the main causes of global mortality. Here, reactive oxygen species (ROS) could largely contribute to gastric carcinogenesis. Hence, the present work was aimed to assess the role of ROS, oxidant status, NADPH oxidases (NOXs) expression, during human gastric adenocarcinoma. We obtained subcellular fraction from samples of gastric mucosa taken from control subjects (n = 20), and from 40 patients with gastric adenocarcinoma, as well as samples of distant areas (tumour-free gastric mucosa). Parameters indicative of lipid peroxidation and cell proliferation were selectively increased in both tumour-free and in cancerous gastric mucosa, despite of glutathione (GSH) content, glutathione reductase (GR) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities were increased in the adenocarcinoma. These high levels of antioxidant defences inversely correlated with down-regulated expression for NOX2 and 4; however, over-expression of NOX1 occurred with increased caspase-3 activity and overexpressed checkpoint 1 (MDC1) and cyclin D1 proteins. In the tumour-free mucosa an oxidant stress took place, without changing total GSH but with decreased activities for GR and mitochondrial SOD; moreover, over-expression of checkpoint 1 (MDC1) correlated with lower NOX2 and 4 expression in this mucosa. Chronically injured gastric mucosa increases lipoperoxidative events and cell proliferation. In the adenocarcinoma, cell proliferation was further enhanced, oxidant stress decreased which seemed to be linked to NOX1, MDC1 and cyclin D1 over-expression, but with a lower NOXs activity leading a 'low tone' of ROS formation. Therefore, our results could be useful for early detection and treatment of gastric adenocarcinoma. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Specific association of mouse MDC1/NFBD1 with NBS1 at sites of DNA-damage.

PubMed

Lee, Alicia C; Fernandez-Capetillo, Oscar; Pisupati, Venkat; Jackson, Stephen P; Nussenzweig, André

2005-01-01

Human MDC1/NFBD1 has been found to interact with key players of the DNA-damage response machinery. Here, we identify and describe a functional homologue of MDC1/ NFBD1 in Mus musculus. The mouse homologue, mMDC1, retains the key motifs identified in the human protein and in response to ionizing radiation forms foci that co-localize with the MRE11-RAD50-NBS1 (MRN) complex and factors such as gammaH2AX and 53BP1. In addition, mMDC1 is associated with DNA damage sites generated during meiotic recombination as well as the X and Y chromosomes during the late stages of meiotic prophase I. Finally, whereas MDC1 shows strong colocalization with the MRN complex in response to DNA damage it does not co-localize with the MRN complex on replicating chromatin. These data suggest that mMDC1 is a marker for both exogenously and endogenously generated DNA double-stranded breaks and that its interaction with the MRN complex is initiated exclusively by DNA damage.

A prototype detection system for atmospheric monitoring of xenon radioisotopes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Czyz, Steven A.; Farsoni, Abi T.; Ranjbar, Lily

2018-03-01

The design of a radioxenon detection system utilizing a CdZeTe crystal and a plastic scintillator coupled to an array of SiPMs to conduct beta-gamma coincidence detection for atmospheric radioxenon monitoring, as well as the measurement of 135Xe and 133/133mXe, have been detailed previously. This paper presents recent measurements of 133/133mXe and 131mXe and the observation of conversion electrons in their coincidence spectra, as well as a 48-hour background measurement to calculate the Minimum Detectable Concentration (MDC) of radioxenon isotopes in the system. The identification of Regions of Interest (ROIs) in the coincidence spectra yielded from the radioxenon measurements, and the subsequent calculation of the MDCs of the system for 135Xe, 133/133mXe, and 131mXe, are also discussed. Calculated MDCs show that the detection system preforms respectably when compared to other state of the art radioxenon detection systems and achieved an MDC of less than 1 mBq/m3 for 131mXe, 133Xe, and 133mXe, in accordance with limits set by the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBTO). The system also provides the advantage of room temperature operation, compactness, low noise operation and having simple readout electronics.

Interpretability of Change Scores in Measures of Balance in People With COPD.

PubMed

Beauchamp, Marla K; Harrison, Samantha L; Goldstein, Roger S; Brooks, Dina

2016-03-01

Balance deficits and an increased fall risk are well documented in individuals with COPD. Despite evidence that balance training programs can improve performance on clinical balance tests, their minimal clinically important difference (MCID) is unknown. The aim of this study was to determine the MCID of the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Balance Evaluation Systems Test (BESTest), and Activities-Specific Balance Confidence (ABC) scale in patients with COPD undergoing pulmonary rehabilitation. We performed a secondary analysis of data from two studies of balance training in COPD (n = 55). The MCID for each balance measure was estimated using the following anchor and distribution-based approaches: (1) mean change scores on a patient-reported global change in balance scale, (2) optimal cut-point from receiver operating characteristic curves (ROCs), and (3) the minimal detectable change with 95% confidence (MDC95). Data from 55 patients with COPD (mean age, 71.2 ± 7.1 y; mean FEV1, 39.2 ± 15.8% predicted) were used in the analysis. The smallest estimate of MCID was from the ROC method. Anchor-based estimates of the MCID ranged from 3.5 to 7.1 for the BBS, 10.2 to 17.4 for the BESTest, and 14.2 to 18.5 for the ABC scale; their MDC95 values were 5.0, 13.1, and 18.9, respectively. Among patients with COPD undergoing pulmonary rehabilitation, a change of 5 to 7 points for the BBS, 13 to 17 points for the BESTest, and 19 points for the ABC scale is required to be both perceptible to patients and beyond measurement error. Copyright © 2016 American College of Chest Physicians. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Verification of computer-aided designs of traveling-wave tubes utilizing novel dynamic refocusers and graphite electrodes for the multistage depressed collector

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ramins, P.; Kosmahl, H. G.; Force, D. A.; Palmer, R. W.; Dayton, J. A., Jr.

1985-01-01

A computational procedure for the design of TWT-refocuser-MDC systems was used to design a short dynamic refocusing system and highly efficient four-stage depressed collector for a 200-W, 8- to 18-GHz, TWT. The computations were carried out with advanced, multidimensional computer programs which model the electron beam as a series of disks of charge and follow their trajectories from the RF input of the TWT, through the slow-wave structure and refocusing section, to their points of impact in the depressed collector. Secondary emission losses in the MDC were treated semi-quantitatively by injecting a representative beam of secondary electrons into the MDC analysis at the point of impact of each primary beam. A comparison of computed and measured TWT and MDC performance showed very good agreement. The electrodes of the MDC were fabricated from a particular form of isotropic graphite that was selected for its low secondary electron yield, ease of machinability, and vacuum properties. This MDC was tested (at CW) for more than 1000 hr with negligible degradation in TWT and MDC performances.

Basic psychometric properties of the transfer assessment instrument (version 3.0).

PubMed

Tsai, Chung-Ying; Rice, Laura A; Hoelmer, Claire; Boninger, Michael L; Koontz, Alicia M

2013-12-01

To refine the Transfer Assessment Instrument (TAI 2.0), develop a training program for the TAI, and analyze the basic psychometric properties of the TAI 3.0, including reliability, standard error of measurement (SEM), minimal detectable change (MDC), and construct validity. Repeated measures. A winter sports clinic for disabled veterans. Wheelchair users (N=41) who perform sitting-pivot or standing-pivot transfers. Not applicable. TAI version 3.0, intraclass correlation coefficients, SEMs, and MDCs for reliable measurement of raters' responses. Spearman correlation coefficient, 1-way analysis of variance, and independent t tests to evaluate construct validity. TAI 3.0 had acceptable to high levels of reliability (range, .74-.88). The SEMs for part 1, part 2, and final scores ranged from .45 to .75. The MDC was 1.5 points on the 10-point scale for the final score. There were weak correlations (ρ range, -.13 to .25; P>.11) between TAI final scores and subjects' characteristics (eg, sex, body mass index, age, type of disability, length of wheelchair use, grip and elbow strength, sitting balance). With comprehensive training, the refined TAI 3.0 yields high reliability among raters of different clinical backgrounds and experience. TAI 3.0 was unbiased toward certain physical characteristics that may influence transfer. TAI fills a void in the field by providing a quantitative measurement of transfers and a tool that can be used to detect problems and guide transfer training. Copyright © 2013 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The kinematics of upper extremity reaching: a reliability study on people with and without shoulder impingement syndrome

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Background Tasks chosen to evaluate motor performance should reflect the movement deficits characteristic of the target population and present an appropriate challenge for the patients who would be evaluated. A reaching task that evaluates impairment characteristics of people with shoulder impingement syndrome (SIS) was developed to evaluate the motor performance of this population. The objectives of this study were to characterize the reproducibility of this reaching task in people with and without SIS and to evaluate the impact of the number of trials on reproducibility. Methods Thirty subjects with SIS and twenty healthy subjects participated in the first measurement session to evaluate intrasession reliability. Ten healthy subjects were retested within 2 to 7 days to assess intersession reliability. At each measurement session, upper extremity kinematic patterns were evaluated during a reaching task. Ten trials were recorded. Thereafter, the upper extremity position at the end of reaching and total joint excursion that occurred during reaching were calculated. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and minimal detectable change (MDC) were used to estimate intra and intersession reliability. Results Intrasession reliability for total joint excursion was good to very good when based on the first two trials (0.770.92). As for end-reach position, intrasession reliability was very good when using either the first two, first five or last five trials (ICC>0.82). Globally, MDC were smaller for the last five trials. Intersession reliability of total joint excursion and position at the end of reaching was good to very good when using the mean of the first two or five trials (0.690.82). For most joints, MDC were smaller when using all ten trials. Conclusions The reaching task proposed to evaluate the upper limb motor performance was found reliable in people with and without SIS. Furthermore, the minimal difference necessary to infer a meaningful change in motor performance was determined, indicating that relatively small changes in task performance can be interpreted as a change in motor performance. PMID:20331889

Decreased PD-1 expression on circulating CD4+T cell and PD-L1 expression on myeloid dendritic cell correlate with clinical manifestations in systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis.

PubMed

Cai, Li; Zhang, Chenxing; Wu, Jing; Zhou, Wei; Chen, Tongxin

2018-03-30

Programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) and its ligand (PD-L1) mediate negative signal in autoimmune diseases. While little is known about its role in juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). The study aimed to reveal the circulating cell profile and the relative PD-1/PD-L1 expression of JIA subsets, elucidating their underlying immunomodulatory mechanisms. We detected the circulating cells and the relative PD-1/PD-L1 signaling in 101 JIA patients and 50 controls by flow cytometry and analyzed their association with disease activity and clinical manifestations. Different from other JIA types, active systemic JIA (sJIA) patients had lower percentage and count of CD4 + T cells and lower PD-1 expression on them compared with healthy controls (P<0.05), active polyarthritis (P<0.05) and enthesitis-related arthritis (ERA) patients (P<0.05). Also, they had higher percentage and count of myeloid dendritic cell (mDC) and lower PD-L1 expression on mDC compared with healthy controls (P<0.05). Both PD-1 on CD4 + T cell and PD-L1 on mDC were negatively correlated with JADAS-27 in sJIA patients (P<0.05). In addition, PD-1 expression on CD4 + T cell was negatively associated with the number of involved joints (P<0.05) and PD-L1 on mDC was lower in patients with fever (P<0.01), which could further divide patients into two groups of different manifestations. Our finding displayed decreased CD4 + T cell, increased mDC and reduced PD-1/PD-L1 signal in sJIA PBMC comparing with other JIA subsets, which might be helpful in JIA differential diagnosis and responsible for distinct clinical manifestations via different mechanisms. Copyright © 2018 Société française de rhumatologie. Published by Elsevier SAS. All rights reserved.

Genetic vasopressin 1b receptor variance in overweight and diabetes mellitus

PubMed Central

Enhörning, Sofia; Sjögren, Marketa; Hedblad, Bo; Nilsson, Peter M; Struck, Joachim; Melander, Olle

2016-01-01

Objective Recently, imbalance in the vasopressin (AVP) system, measured as elevated levels of copeptin (the C-terminal part of the AVP pro-hormone) in plasma, was linked to the development of abdominal obesity and diabetes mellitus (DM). Here, we aim to investigate if the genetic variation of the human AVP receptor 1b gene (AVPR1B) is associated with measures of obesity and DM. Design Malmö Diet and Cancer study (MDC) is a population-based prospective cohort examined 1991–1996. Methods Four tag single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs: rs35810727, rs28373064, rs35439639, rs35608965) of AVPR1B were genotyped in the cardiovascular cohort (n=6103) of MDC (MDC-CC) and associated with measures of obesity and DM. Significant SNPs were replicated in another 24 344 MDC individuals (MDC replication cohort). Results In MDC-CC, the major allele of rs35810727 was associated with elevated BMI (β-coefficient±s.e.m.; 0.30±0.14, P=0.03) and waist (0.78±0.36, P=0.03) after age and gender adjustment. The association with BMI was replicated in the MDC replication cohort (0.21±0.07, P=0.003), whereas that with waist was not significant. In MDC-CC there was no association between the major allele of rs35810727 and DM, but in the complete MDC cohort (n=30 447) the major allele of rs35810727 was associated with DM (OR (95% CI); 1.10 (1.00–1.20), P=0.04). Conclusions Genetic variance of AVPR1B contributes to overweight. Furthermore, our data indicate a link between AVPR1B variance and DM development. Our data point at a relationship between the disturbance of the pharmacologically modifiable AVP system and the body weight regulation. PMID:26503846

Immortalized myogenic cells from congenital muscular dystrophy type1A patients recapitulate aberrant caspase activation in pathogenesis: a new tool for MDC1A research

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Congenital muscular dystrophy Type 1A (MDC1A) is a severe, recessive disease of childhood onset that is caused by mutations in the LAMA2 gene encoding laminin-α2. Studies with both mouse models and primary cultures of human MDC1A myogenic cells suggest that aberrant activation of cell death is a significant contributor to pathogenesis in laminin-α2-deficiency. Methods To overcome the limited population doublings of primary cultures, we generated immortalized, clonal lines of human MDC1A myogenic cells via overexpression of both CDK4 and the telomerase catalytic component (human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT)). Results The immortalized MDC1A myogenic cells proliferated indefinitely when cultured at low density in high serum growth medium, but retained the capacity to form multinucleate myotubes and express muscle-specific proteins when switched to low serum medium. When cultured in the absence of laminin, myotubes formed from immortalized MDC1A myoblasts, but not those formed from immortalized healthy or disease control human myoblasts, showed significantly increased activation of caspase-3. This pattern of aberrant caspase-3 activation in the immortalized cultures was similar to that found previously in primary MDC1A cultures and laminin-α2-deficient mice. Conclusions Immortalized MDC1A myogenic cells provide a new resource for studies of pathogenetic mechanisms and for screening possible therapeutic approaches in laminin-α2-deficiency. PMID:24314268

Immortalized myogenic cells from congenital muscular dystrophy type1A patients recapitulate aberrant caspase activation in pathogenesis: a new tool for MDC1A research.

PubMed

Yoon, Soonsang; Stadler, Guido; Beermann, Mary Lou; Schmidt, Eric V; Windelborn, James A; Schneiderat, Peter; Wright, Woodring E; Miller, Jeffrey Boone

2013-12-06

Congenital muscular dystrophy Type 1A (MDC1A) is a severe, recessive disease of childhood onset that is caused by mutations in the LAMA2 gene encoding laminin-α2. Studies with both mouse models and primary cultures of human MDC1A myogenic cells suggest that aberrant activation of cell death is a significant contributor to pathogenesis in laminin-α2-deficiency. To overcome the limited population doublings of primary cultures, we generated immortalized, clonal lines of human MDC1A myogenic cells via overexpression of both CDK4 and the telomerase catalytic component (human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT)). The immortalized MDC1A myogenic cells proliferated indefinitely when cultured at low density in high serum growth medium, but retained the capacity to form multinucleate myotubes and express muscle-specific proteins when switched to low serum medium. When cultured in the absence of laminin, myotubes formed from immortalized MDC1A myoblasts, but not those formed from immortalized healthy or disease control human myoblasts, showed significantly increased activation of caspase-3. This pattern of aberrant caspase-3 activation in the immortalized cultures was similar to that found previously in primary MDC1A cultures and laminin-α2-deficient mice. Immortalized MDC1A myogenic cells provide a new resource for studies of pathogenetic mechanisms and for screening possible therapeutic approaches in laminin-α2-deficiency.

A Model Relating the Uniform Chart of Accounts to Major Disease Categories

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-10-01

THERAPEUTIC ABORTION BOARD - -.- N NURSE MIDWIFERY * . , ,, PSYCHIATRY & NEUROLOGY P PSYCHIATRY , P ADULT _ P ADOLESCENT - P ALCOHOL/ DRUG OTOXIFICATION X P...Substance Induced Organic Disorders MDC 21: Injury, Poisoning, and Toxic Effects of Drugs MDC 22: Burns MDC 23: Selected Factors Influencing Health

The multiple hop test: a discriminative or evaluative instrument for chronic ankle instability?

PubMed

Eechaute, Christophe; Bautmans, Ivan; De Hertogh, Willem; Vaes, Peter

2012-05-01

To determine whether the multiple hop test should be used as an evaluative or a discriminative instrument for chronic ankle instability (CAI). Blinded case-control study. : University research laboratory. Twenty-nine healthy subjects (21 men, 8 women, mean age 21.8 years) and 29 patients with CAI (17 men, 12 women, mean age 24.9 years) were selected. Subjects performed a multiple hop test and hopped on 10 different tape markers while trying to avoid any postural correction. Minimal detectable changes (MDC) of the number of balance errors, the time value, and the visual analog scale (VAS) score (perceived difficulty) were calculated as evaluative measures. For the discriminative properties, a receiver operating characteristic curve was determined and the area under curve (AUC), the sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic accuracy (DA), and likelihood ratios (LR) were calculated whether 1, 2, or 3 outcomes were positive. Based on their MDC, outcomes should, respectively, change by more than 7 errors (41%), 6 seconds (15%), and 27 mm (55%, VAS score) before considering it as a real change. Area under curves were, respectively, 79% (errors), 77% (time value), and 65% (VAS score). The most optimal cutoff point was, respectively, 13.5 errors, 35 seconds, and 32.5 mm. When 2 of 3 outcomes were positive, the sensitivity was 86%, the specificity was 79%, the DA was 83%, the positive LR was 4.2, and the negative LR was 0.17. The multiple hop test seems to be more a discriminative instrument for CAI, and its responsiveness needs to be demonstrated.

A ten liter stacked microbial desalination cell packed with mixed ion-exchange resins for secondary effluent desalination.

PubMed

Zuo, Kuichang; Cai, Jiaxiang; Liang, Shuai; Wu, Shijia; Zhang, Changyong; Liang, Peng; Huang, Xia

2014-08-19

The architecture and performance of microbial desalination cell (MDC) have been significantly improved in the past few years. However, the application of MDC is still limited in a scope of small-scale (milliliter) reactors and high-salinity-water desalination. In this study, a large-scale (>10 L) stacked MDC packed with mixed ion-exchange resins was fabricated and operated in the batch mode with a salt concentration of 0.5 g/L NaCl, a typical level of domestic wastewater. With circulation flow rate of 80 mL/min, the stacked resin-packed MDC (SR-MDC) achieved a desalination efficiency of 95.8% and a final effluent concentration of 0.02 g/L in 12 h, which is comparable with the effluent quality of reverse osmosis in terms of salinity. Moreover, the SR-MDC kept a stable desalination performance (>93%) when concentrate volume decreased from 2.4 to 0.1 L (diluate/concentrate volume ratio increased from 1:1 to 1:0.04), where only 0.875 L of nonfresh water was consumed to desalinate 1 L of saline water. In addition, the SR-MDC achieved a considerable desalination rate (95.4 mg/h), suggesting a promising application for secondary effluent desalination through deriving biochemical electricity from wastewater.

Wind erosion reduces soil organic carbon sequestration falsely indicating ineffective management practices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chappell, Adrian; Baldock, Jeffrey A.

2016-09-01

Improved management of agricultural land has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and to reduce atmospheric CO2 via soil carbon sequestration. However, SOC stocks are reduced by soil erosion which is commonly omitted from calculations of crop production, C cycling, C sequestration and C accounting. We used fields from the wind eroded dryland cropping region of Western Australia to demonstrate the global implications for C sequestration and C accounting of omitting soil erosion. For the fields we previously estimated mean net (1950s-1990) soil erosion of 1.2 ± 1.0 t ha-1 y-1. The mean net (1990-2013) soil erosion increased by nearly four times to 4.4 ± 2.1 t ha-1 y-1. Conservation agriculture has evidently not reduced wind erosion in this region. The mean net (1990-2013) SOC erosion was up to 0.2 t C ha-1 y-1 across all sampled fields and similar to measured sequestration rates in the region (up to 0.5 t C ha-1 y-1; 10 years) for many management practices recommended for building SOC stocks. The minimum detectable change (MDC; 10 years) of SOC without erosion was up to 0.2 t C ha-1 y-1 whilst the MDC of SOC with erosion was up to 0.4 t C ha-1 y-1. These results illustrate the generally applicable outcome: (i) if SOC erosion is equal to (or greater than) the increase in SOC due to management practices, the change will not be detectable (or a loss will be evident); (ii) without including soil erosion in SOC sequestration calculations, the monitoring of SOC stocks will lead to, at best the inability to detect change and, at worst the false impression that management practices have failed to store SOC. Furthermore, continued omission of soil erosion in crop production, C accounting and C sequestration will most likely undermine confidence in policy designed to encourage adoption of C farming and the attendant benefits for soil stewardship and food security.

Reliability, Validity, and Minimal Detectable Change of Four-Step Stair Climb Power Test in Community-Dwelling Older Adults.

PubMed

Ni, Meng; Brown, Lorna G; Lawler, Danielle; Bean, Jonathan F

2017-07-01

Stair climb power is an important clinical measure of lower-extremity power. The stair climb power test (SCPT) was validated by requiring individuals to climb a full flight of stairs. A 4-step SCPT (4SCPT) would be more clinically feasible and easier to perform, yet its reliability and validity are unknown. To evaluate reliability, validity, and minimal detectable change of 4SCPT among community-dwelling older adults. This study is a cross-sectional analysis of baseline data from a clinical trial. Fifty older adults ≥65 years of age, at risk for mobility decline, consented to participate in this ancillary study. Test-retest reliability was derived from 2 measurements within each participant measured by a single assessor. Pearson correlation analyses among leg power measures (4SCPT, SCPT, single leg press power at 40% and 70% of the 1-repetition maximum [SLP40, SLP70]) were performed. Separate multivariate linear regressions were conducted evaluating the associations between each leg power measure and 2 mobility outcomes, the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) and habitual gait speed (HGS). Minimal detectable change was based on a 90% confidence interval (MDC 90 ). The 4SCPT had excellent test-retest reliability (ICC(2,1) = 0.951), and strong correlation with SCPT, SLP40, and SLP70 ( r = 0.85-0.96). The 4SCPT explained a greater amount of variance in the SPPB (R 2 = 0.31) than other leg power measurements (R 2 = 0.23-0.25). The 4SCPT (R 2 = 0.41) and SCPT (R 2 = 0.42) described equivalent amounts of variance in HGS, and greater than that with SLP40 (R 2 = 0.28) and SLP70 (R 2 = 0.30). The MDC 90 for 4SCPT was 44.0 watts. This was a cross-sectional analysis within a small, nonrepresentative sample. Interrater reliability was not evaluated. The 4SCPT shows scientific promise as a valid and reliable leg power measurement among community-dwelling older adults. © 2017 American Physical Therapy Association

Measurement Properties of the Lower Extremity Functional Scale: A Systematic Review.

PubMed

Mehta, Saurabh P; Fulton, Allison; Quach, Cedric; Thistle, Megan; Toledo, Cesar; Evans, Neil A

2016-03-01

Systematic review of measurement properties. Many primary studies have examined the measurement properties, such as reliability, validity, and sensitivity to change, of the Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS) in different clinical populations. A systematic review summarizing these properties for the LEFS may provide an important resource. To locate and synthesize evidence on the measurement properties of the LEFS and to discuss the clinical implications of the evidence. A literature search was conducted in 4 databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, and CINAHL), using predefined search terms. Two reviewers performed a critical appraisal of the included studies using a standardized assessment form. A total of 27 studies were included in the review, of which 18 achieved a very good to excellent methodological quality level. The LEFS scores demonstrated excellent test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficients ranging between 0.85 and 0.99) and demonstrated the expected relationships with measures assessing similar constructs (Pearson correlation coefficient values of greater than 0.7). The responsiveness of the LEFS scores was excellent, as suggested by consistently high effect sizes (greater than 0.8) in patients with different lower extremity conditions. Minimal detectable change at the 90% confidence level (MDC90) for the LEFS scores varied between 8.1 and 15.3 across different reassessment intervals in a wide range of patient populations. The pooled estimate of the MDC90 was 6 points and the minimal clinically important difference was 9 points in patients with lower extremity musculoskeletal conditions, which are indicative of true change and clinically meaningful change, respectively. The results of this review support the reliability, validity, and responsiveness of the LEFS scores for assessing functional impairment in a wide array of patient groups with lower extremity musculoskeletal conditions.

Intra-rater reliability of hallux flexor strength measures using the Nintendo Wii Balance Board.

PubMed

Quek, June; Treleaven, Julia; Brauer, Sandra G; O'Leary, Shaun; Clark, Ross A

2015-01-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the intra-rater reliability of a new method in combination with the Nintendo Wii Balance Board (NWBB) to measure the strength of hallux flexor muscle. Thirty healthy individuals (age: 34.9 ± 12.9 years, height: 170.4 ± 10.5 cm, weight: 69.3 ± 15.3 kg, female = 15) participated. Repeated testing was completed within 7 days. Participants performed strength testing in sitting using a wooden platform in combination with the NWBB. This new method was set up to selectively recruit an intrinsic muscle of the foot, specifically the flexor hallucis brevis muscle. Statistical analysis was performed using intra-class coefficients and ordinary least product analysis. To estimate measurement error, standard error of measurement (SEM), minimal detectable change (MDC) and percentage error were calculated. Results indicate excellent intra-rater reliability (ICC = 0.982, CI = 0.96-0.99) with an absence of systematic bias. SEM, MDC and percentage error value were 0.5, 1.4 and 12 % respectively. This study demonstrates that a new method in combination with the NWBB application is reliable to measure hallux flexor strength and has potential to be used for future research and clinical application.

Measurement Properties of the Smartphone-Based B-B Score in Current Shoulder Pathologies

PubMed Central

Pichonnaz, Claude; Duc, Cyntia; Gleeson, Nigel; Ancey, Céline; Jaccard, Hervé; Lécureux, Estelle; Farron, Alain; Jolles, Brigitte M.; Aminian, Kamiar

2015-01-01

This study is aimed at the determination of the measurement properties of the shoulder function B-B Score measured with a smartphone. This score measures the symmetry between sides of a power-related metric for two selected movements, with 100% representing perfect symmetry. Twenty healthy participants, 20 patients with rotator cuff conditions, 23 with fractures, 22 with capsulitis, and 23 with shoulder instabilities were measured twice across a six-month interval using the B-B Score and shoulder function questionnaires. The discriminative power, responsiveness, diagnostic power, concurrent validity, minimal detectable change (MDC), minimal clinically important improvement (MCII), and patient acceptable symptom state (PASS) were evaluated. Significant differences with the control group and significant baseline—six-month differences were found for the rotator cuff condition, fracture, and capsulitis patient groups. The B-B Score was responsive and demonstrated excellent diagnostic power, except for shoulder instability. The correlations with clinical scores were generally moderate to high, but lower for instability. The MDC was 18.1%, the MCII was 25.2%, and the PASS was 77.6. No floor effect was observed. The B-B Score demonstrated excellent measurement properties in populations with rotator cuff conditions, proximal humerus fractures, and capsulitis, and can thus be used as a routine test to evaluate those patients. PMID:26506355

[Quantitative analysis of diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance images during chemoradiation therapy for cancer of the cervix uteri: Prognostic role of pretreatment diffusion coefficient values].

PubMed

Kharuzhyk, S A

2015-01-01

to carry out a quantitative analysis of diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance images (DWI) in cancer of the cervix uteri (CCU) and to estimate the possibility of using pretreatment measured diffusion coefficient (MDC) to predict chemoradiation therapy (CRT). The investigation prospectively enrolled 46 women with morphologically verified Stages IB-IVB CCU. All the women underwent diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging of pelvic organs before and after treatment. A semiautomatic method was used to determine tumor signal intensity (SI) on DWI at b 1000 s/mm2 (SI b1000) and tumor MDC. The reproducibility of MDC measurements was assessed in 16 randomly selected women. The investigators compared the pretreatment quantitative DWI measures in complete and incomplete regression (CR and IR) groups and the presence and absence of tumor progression during a follow-up. An association of MDC with progression-free and overall survivals (PFS and OS) was determined in the patients. A semiautomatic tumor segmentation framework could determine the pretreatment quantitative DMI measures with minimal time spent and high reproducibility. The mean tumor MDC was 0.82 +/- 0.14 x 10(-3) mm2/s. CR and IR were established in 28 and 18 women, respectively. The MDC < or = 0.83 x 10(-3) mm2/s predicted CR with a sensitivity of 64.3% and a specificity of 77.8% (p=0.007). The median follow-up was 47 months (range, 3-82 months). With the MDC < or = 0.86 x 10(-3) mm2/s, 5-year PFS was 74.1% versus 42.1% with a higher MDC (p=0.023) and 5-year OS was 70.4 and 40.6%, respectively (p=0.021). The survival difference was insignificant in relation to the degree of tumor regression. The pretreatment IS at b1000 was of no prognostic value. The pretreatment tumor MDC may serve as a biomarker for predicting the efficiency of CRT for CCU.

Recovery of water and minerals from shale gas produced water by membrane distillation crystallization.

PubMed

Kim, Junghyun; Kim, Jungwon; Hong, Seungkwan

2018-02-01

Shale gas produced water (SGPW) treatment imposes greater technical challenges because of its high concentration of various contaminants. Membrane distillation crystallization (MDC) has a great potential to manage SGPW since it is capable of recovering both water and minerals at high rates, up to near a zero liquid discharge (ZLD) condition. To evaluate the feasibility of MDC for SGPW treatment, MDC performance indicators, such as water recovery rate, solid production rate (SPR) and specific energy consumption (SEC), were systematically investigated, to our knowledge for the first time, by using actual SGPW from Eagle Ford Shale (USA). The main operating parameters including feed cross-flow velocity (CFV) and crystallization temperature (T Cr ) were optimized by performing a series of MDC experiments. The results reported that water and minerals were effectively recovered with 84% of recovery rate and 2.72 kg/m 2 day of SPR under respective optimal operating conditions. Furthermore, the scale mechanism was firstly identified as limiting factor for MDC performance degradation. Lastly, SEC of MDC was estimated to be as low as 28.2 kWh/m 3 under ideal optimal operating conditions. Our experimental observations demonstrated that MDC could sustainably and effectively recover water and mineral with low energy consumption from SGPW by optimizing operating condition. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Microbial desalination cell for enhanced biodegradation of waste engine oil using a novel bacterial strain Bacillus subtilis moh3.

PubMed

Sabina, K; Fayidh, Mohammed A; Archana, G; Sivarajan, M; Babuskin, S; Babu, P Azhagu Saravana; Radha, K Krishnan; Sukumar, M

2014-01-01

Microbial desalination cell (MDC) is a bioelectrochemical system developed recently from microbial fuel cells (MFCs), for producing green energy from organic wastes along with desalination of saltwater. MDC is proved to be a better performer than MFC in terms of power output and chemical oxygen demand removal, with desalination as an additional feature. This study investigates the application potential of MDC for integrated biodegradation of waste engine oil. This study showed, for the first time, that waste engine oil could be used as an organic substrate in MDC, achieving biodegradation of engine oil along with considerable desalination and power production. Utilization of these wastes in MDC can protect the environment from waste engine oil contamination. Indigenous oil-degrading bacteria were isolated and identified from engine oil contaminated sludge. Degradation of waste engine oil by these novel isolates was studied in batch cultures and optimized the growth conditions. The same cultures when used in MDC, gave enhanced biodegradation (70.1 +/- 0.5%) along with desalination (68.3 +/- 0.6%) and power production (3.1 +/- 0.3 mW/m2). Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analyses were performed to characterize the degradation metabolites in the anolyte of MDC which clearly indicated the biodegradation of long chain, branched and cyclic hydrocarbons present in waste engine oil.

Minimally Clinically Important Change in the Activity Measure for Post-Acute Care (AM-PAC), a Generic Patient-Reported Outcome Tool, in People With Low Back Pain.

PubMed

Lee, Natalie; Thompson, Nicolas R; Passek, Sandra; Stilphen, Mary; Katzan, Irene L

2017-11-01

The Activity Measure for Post-Acute Care (AM-PAC) is a generic metric of patient-reported functional status. The minimal clinically important difference (MCID) in the AM-PAC score has not been determined. The study objective was to determine the MCID for AM-PAC in people with low back pain. This was a retrospective cohort study. Anchor-based and distribution-based methods were used to estimate the MCID. The Modified Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire was used as the anchor. Adults who had a primary ICD-9 code for low back pain in at least 1 outpatient physical therapist visit during an episode of care and who completed both the AM-PAC and the Modified Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire in at least 2 visits during the care episode were included. The MCID was calculated for the AM-PAC basic mobility version as well its adapted version, which the Cleveland Clinic uses for patients 65 years old or older. A total of 1,271 participants were eligible for study. For the AM-PAC basic mobility version, anchor-based methods yielded MCID estimates of between 3.4 and 5.1, whereas distribution-based methods yielded estimates of 1.7 to 4.2. The minimal detectable change (MDC) for the AM-PAC basic mobility version was 3.3. For the adapted AM-PAC basic mobility version, the MCID was estimated to be between 2.9 and 4.0 via anchor-based methods and between 1.2 to 3.5 via distribution-based methods. The MDC for the adapted AM-PAC basic mobility version was 3.5. The estimated MCID was designed for people with low back pain only. The MCID ranged from 3.3 to 5.1 for the AM-PAC basic mobility version and 3.5 to 4 for the adapted version, with the MDC as the lower limit. Changes in the AM-PAC for people with low back pain may be interpreted using the estimated MCID. Future studies are needed to determine the AM-PAC MCID for populations other than those with low back pain. © 2017 American Physical Therapy Association

Hepatitis B virus surface antigen impairs myeloid dendritic cell function: a possible immune escape mechanism of hepatitis B virus

PubMed Central

Op den Brouw, Marjoleine L; Binda, Rekha S; van Roosmalen, Mark H; Protzer, Ulrike; Janssen, Harry L A; van der Molen, Renate G; Woltman, Andrea M

2009-01-01

Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is the result of an inadequate immune response towards the virus. Myeloid dendritic cells (mDC) of patients with chronic HBV are impaired in their maturation and function, resulting in more tolerogenic rather than immunogenic responses, which may contribute to viral persistence. The mechanism responsible for altered mDC function remains unclear. The HBV-infected patients display large amounts of HBV particles and viral proteins in their circulation, especially the surface antigen HBsAg, which allows multiple interactions between the virus, its viral proteins and DC. To assess whether HBV directly influences mDC function, the effects of HBV and HBsAg on human mDC maturation and function were investigated in vitro. As already described for internalization of HBV by DC, the present study shows that peripheral blood-derived mDC of healthy controls also actively take up HBsAg in a time-dependent manner. Cytokine-induced maturation in the presence of HBV or HBsAg resulted in a significantly more tolerogenic mDC phenotype as demonstrated by a diminished up-regulation of costimulatory molecules and a decreased T-cell stimulatory capacity, as assessed by T-cell proliferation and interferon-γ production. In addition, the presence of HBV significantly reduced interleukin-12 production by mDC. These results show that both HBV particles and purified HBsAg have an immune modulatory capacity and may directly contribute to the dysfunction of mDC in patients with chronic HBV. The direct immune regulatory effect of HBV and circulating HBsAg particles on the function of DC can be considered as part of the mechanism by which HBV escapes immunity. PMID:18624732

The Oxford Ankle Foot Questionnaire for children: responsiveness and longitudinal validity.

PubMed

Morris, Christopher; Doll, Helen; Davies, Neville; Wainwright, Andrew; Theologis, Tim; Willett, Keith; Fitzpatrick, Ray

2009-12-01

To evaluate how scores from the Oxford Ankle Foot Questionnaire change over time and with treatment using both distribution-based and anchor-based approaches. Eighty children aged 5-16 and their parent or career completed questionnaires at orthopaedic or trauma outpatient clinics. They were asked to complete and return a second set of questionnaires again within 2 weeks (retest), and then mailed a third set of questionnaires to complete again after 2 months (follow-up). The follow-up questionnaires included a global rating of change 'transition' item. Child- and parent-reported mean domain scores (Physical, School & Play, and Emotional) were all stable at retest, whereas positive mean changes were observed at follow-up. As we hypothesised, trauma patients had poorer scores than elective patients at baseline, and showed greater improvement at follow-up. For trauma patients, mean changes in per cent scores were large (scores improved between 40 and 56 for the Physical and School & Play domains, and 17 and 21 for Emotional); all effect sizes (ES) were large (>0.8). For elective patients, the mean improvement in per cent scores were more moderate (Physical: child 10, ES = 0.4, parent 11, ES = 0.5; School & Play child 0, ES = 0, parent 9 ES = 0.4; Emotional: child 6, ES = 0.2; parents 8, ES > 0.3). Minimal detectable change (MDC(90)), an indication of measurement error, ranged from 6 to 8. Half the standard deviation of baseline scores ranged from 11 to 18. Minimal important difference could only be calculated for elective patients (9 child and 13 parent ratings), these ranged from 7 to 17. The findings support the responsiveness and longitudinal validity of the scales. Changes in domain scores of, or exceeding, the MDC(90) (6-8) are likely to be beyond measurement error; further work is required to refine the estimate of change that can be considered important.

Reliability, Validity, and Responsiveness of the QuickDASH in Patients With Upper Limb Amputation.

PubMed

Resnik, Linda; Borgia, Matthew

2015-09-01

To examine the internal consistency, test-retest reliability, validity, and responsiveness of the shortened version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) questionnaire in persons with upper limb amputation. Cross-sectional and longitudinal. Three sites participating in the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Home Study of the DEKA Arm. A convenience sample of upper limb amputees (N=44). Training with a multifunction upper limb prosthesis. Multiple outcome measures including the QuickDASH were administered twice within 1 week, and for a subset of 20 persons, after completion of in-laboratory training with the DEKA Arm. Scale alphas and intraclass correlation coefficient type 3,1 (ICC3,1) were used to examine reliability. Minimum detectable change (MDC) scores were calculated. Analyses of variance, comparing QuickDASH scores by the amount of prosthetic use and amputation level, were used for known-group validity analyses with alpha set at .05. Pairwise correlations between QuickDASH and other measures were used to examine concurrent validity. Responsiveness was measured by effect size (ES) and standardized response mean (SRM). QuickDASH alpha was .83, and ICC was .87 (95% confidence interval, .77-.93). MDC at the 95% confidence level (MDC95%) was 17.4. Full- or part-time prosthesis users had better QuickDASH scores compared with nonprosthesis users (P=.021), as did those with more distal amputations at both baseline (P=.042) and with the DEKA Arm (P=.024). The QuickDASH was correlated with concurrent measures of activity limitation as expected. The ES and SRM after training with the DEKA Arm were 0.6. This study provides evidence of reliability and validity of the QuickDASH in persons with upper limb amputation. Results provide preliminary evidence of responsiveness to prosthetic device type/training. Further research with a larger sample is needed to confirm results. Copyright © 2015 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Adaptive evolution of Escherichia coli to Ciprofloxacin in controlled stress environments: emergence of resistance in continuous and step-wise gradients

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deng, J.; Zhou, L.; Dong, Y.; Sanford, R. A.; Shechtman, L. A.; Alcalde, R.; Werth, C. J.; Fouke, B. W.

2017-12-01

Microorganisms in nature have evolved in response to a variety of environmental stresses, including gradients in pH, flow and chemistry. While environmental stresses are generally considered to be the driving force of adaptive evolution, the impact and extent of any specific stress needed to drive such changes has not been well characterized. In this study, a microfluidic diffusion chamber (MDC) and a batch culturing system were used to systematically study the effects of continuous versus step-wise stress increments on adaptation of E. coli to the antibiotic ciprofloxacin. In the MDC, a diffusion gradient of ciprofloxacin was established across a microfluidic well array to microscopically observe changes in Escherichia coli strain 307 replication and migration patterns that would indicate emergence of resistance due to genetic mutations. Cells recovered from the MDC only had resistance of 50-times the original minimum inhibition concentration (MICoriginal) of ciprofloxacin, although minimum exposure concentrations were over 80 × MICoriginal by the end of the experiment. In complementary batch experiments, E. coli 307 were exposed to step-wise daily increases of ciprofloxacin at rates equivalent to 0.1×, 0.2×, 0.4× or 0.8× times MICoriginal/day. Over a period of 18 days, E. coli cells were able to acquire resistance of up to 225 × MICoriginal, with exposure to ciprofloxacin concentration up to only 14.9 × MIC­original. The different levels of acquired resistance in the continuous MDC versus step-wise batch increment experiments suggests that the intrinsic rate of E. coli adaptation was exceeded in the MDC, while the step-wise experiments favor adaptation to the highest ciprofloxacin experiments. Genomic analyses of E. coli DNA extracted from the microfluidic cell and batch cultures indicated four single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) mutations of amino acid 82, 83 and 87 in the gyrA gene. The progression of adaptation in the step-wise increments of ciprofloxacin indicate that the Ser83-Leu mutation gradually becomes dominant over other gyrA mutations with increased antibiotic resistance. Co-existence of the Ser83-Leu and Asp87—Gly mutations appear to provide the greatest level of resistance (i.e., 85 × to 225 × MICoriginal), and only emerged after the whole community acquired the Ser83—Leu mutation.

Test-retest reliability of biodex system 4 pro for isometric ankle-eversion and -inversion measurement.

PubMed

Tankevicius, Gediminas; Lankaite, Doanata; Krisciunas, Aleksandras

2013-08-01

The lack of knowledge about isometric ankle testing indicates the need for research in this area. to assess test-retest reliability and to determine the optimal position for isometric ankle-eversion and -inversion testing. Test-retest reliability study. Isometric ankle eversion and inversion were assessed in 3 different dynamometer foot-plate positions: 0°, 7°, and 14° of inversion. Two maximal repetitions were performed at each angle. Both limbs were tested (40 ankles in total). The test was performed 2 times with a period of 7 d between the tests. University hospital. The study was carried out on 20 healthy athletes with no history of ankle sprains. Reliability was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC2,1); minimal detectable change (MDC) was calculated using a 95% confidence interval. Paired t test was used to measure statistically significant changes, and P <.05 was considered statistically significant. Eversion and inversion peak torques showed high ICCs in all 3 angles (ICC values .87-.96, MDC values 3.09-6.81 Nm). Eversion peak torque was the smallest when testing at the 0° angle and gradually increased, reaching maximum values at 14° angle. The increase of eversion peak torque was statistically significant at 7 ° and 14° of inversion. Inversion peak torque showed an opposite pattern-it was the smallest when measured at the 14° angle and increased at the other 2 angles; statistically significant changes were seen only between measures taken at 0° and 14°. Isometric eversion and inversion testing using the Biodex 4 Pro system is a reliable method. The authors suggest that the angle of 7° of inversion is the best for isometric eversion and inversion testing.

Establishing the minimal clinically important difference for the Questionnaire of Olfactory Disorders.

PubMed

Mattos, Jose L; Schlosser, Rodney J; Mace, Jess C; Smith, Timothy L; Soler, Zachary M

2018-05-02

Olfactory-specific quality of life (QOL) can be measured using the Questionnaire of Olfactory Disorders Negative Statements (QOD-NS). Changes in the QOD-NS after treatment can be difficult to interpret since there is no standardized definition of clinically meaningful improvement. Patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) completed the QOD-NS. Four distribution-based methods were used to calculate the minimal clinically important difference (MCID): (1) one-half standard deviation (SD); (2) standard error of the mean (SEM); (3) Cohen's effect size (d) of the smallest unit of change; and (4) minimal detectable change (MDC). We also averaged all 4 of the scores together. Finally, the likelihood of achieving a MCID after sinus surgery using these methods, as well as average QOD-NS scores, was stratified by normal vs abnormal baseline QOD-NS scores. Outcomes were examined on 128 patients. The mean ± SD improvement in QOD-NS score after surgery was 4.3 ± 11.0 for the entire cohort and 9.6 ± 12.9 for those with abnormal baseline scores (p < 0.001). The MCID values using the different techniques were: (1) SD = 6.5; (2) SEM = 3.1; (3) d = 2.6; and (4) MDC = 8.6. The MCID score was 5.2 on average. For the total cohort analysis, the likelihood of reporting a MCID ranged from 26% to 51%, and 49% to 70% for patients reporting preoperative abnormal olfaction. Distribution-based MCID values of the QOD-NS range between 2.6 and 8.6 points, with an average of 5.2. When stratified by preoperative QOD-NS scores the majority of patients reporting abnormal preoperative QOD-NS scores achieved a MCID. © 2018 ARS-AAOA, LLC.

The Implementation and Effects of the Mathematics Design Collaborative (MDC): Early Findings from Kentucky Ninth-Grade Algebra 1 Courses. CRESST Report 845

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Herman, Joan L.; Matrundola, Deborah La Torre; Epstein, Scott; Leon, Seth; Dai, Yunyun; Reber, Sarah; Choi, Kilchan

2015-01-01

With support from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, researchers and experts in mathematics education developed the Mathematics Design Collaborative (MDC) as a strategy to support the transition to Common Core State Standards in math. MDC provides short formative assessment lessons known as Classroom Challenges for use in middle and high…

Cost-effectiveness of multidisciplinary care in mild to moderate chronic kidney disease in the United States: A modeling study

PubMed Central

Malcolm, Elizabeth; Goldhaber-Fiebert, Jeremy D.

2018-01-01

Background Multidisciplinary care (MDC) programs have been proposed as a way to alleviate the cost and morbidity associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the US. Methods and findings We assessed the cost-effectiveness of a theoretical Medicare-based MDC program for CKD compared to usual CKD care in Medicare beneficiaries with stage 3 and 4 CKD between 45 and 84 years old in the US. The program used nephrologists, advanced practitioners, educators, dieticians, and social workers. From Medicare claims and published literature, we developed a novel deterministic Markov model for CKD progression and calibrated it to long-term risks of mortality and progression to end-stage renal disease. We then used the model to project accrued discounted costs and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) over patients’ remaining lifetime. We estimated the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of MDC, or the cost of the intervention per QALY gained. MDC added 0.23 (95% CI: 0.08, 0.42) QALYs over usual care, costing $51,285 per QALY gained (net monetary benefit of $23,100 at a threshold of $150,000 per QALY gained; 95% CI: $6,252, $44,323). In all subpopulations analyzed, ICERs ranged from $42,663 to $72,432 per QALY gained. MDC was generally more cost-effective in patients with higher urine albumin excretion. Although ICERs were higher in younger patients, MDC could yield greater improvements in health in younger than older patients. MDC remained cost-effective when we decreased its effectiveness to 25% of the base case or increased the cost 5-fold. The program costed less than $70,000 per QALY in 95% of probabilistic sensitivity analyses and less than $87,500 per QALY in 99% of analyses. Limitations of our study include its theoretical nature and being less generalizable to populations at low risk for progression to ESRD. We did not study the potential impact of MDC on hospitalization (cardiovascular or other). Conclusions Our model estimates that a Medicare-funded MDC program could reduce the need for dialysis, prolong life expectancy, and meet conventional cost-effectiveness thresholds in middle-aged to elderly patients with mild to moderate CKD. PMID:29584720

Analytical and experimental performance of a dual-mode traveling wave tube and multistage depressed collector

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ramins, Peter; Force, Dale A.; Kosmahl, Henry G.

1987-01-01

A computational procedure for the design of traveling-wave-tube(TWT)/refocuser/multistage depressed collector (MDC) systems was used to design a short, permanent-magnet refocusing system and a highly efficient MDC for a medium-power, dual-mode, 4.8- to 9.6-GHz TWT. The computations were carried out with advanced, multidimensional computer programs which model the electron beam and follow the trajectories of representative charges from the radiofrequency (RF) input of the TWT, through the slow-wave structure and refocusing section, to their points of impact in the depressed collector. Secondary emission losses in the MDC were treated semiquantitatively by injecting representative secondary-electron-emission current into the MDA analysis at the point of impact of each primary beam. A comparison of computed and measured TWT and MDC performance showed very good agreement. The electrodes of the MDC were fabricated from a particluar form of isptropic graphite that was selected for its low secondary electron yield, ease of machinability, and vacuum properties.

A Rapid and Quantitative Flow Cytometry Method for the Analysis of Membrane Disruptive Antimicrobial Activity.

PubMed

O'Brien-Simpson, Neil M; Pantarat, Namfon; Attard, Troy J; Walsh, Katrina A; Reynolds, Eric C

2016-01-01

We describe a microbial flow cytometry method that quantifies within 3 hours antimicrobial peptide (AMP) activity, termed Minimum Membrane Disruptive Concentration (MDC). Increasing peptide concentration positively correlates with the extent of bacterial membrane disruption and the calculated MDC is equivalent to its MBC. The activity of AMPs representing three different membranolytic modes of action could be determined for a range of Gram positive and negative bacteria, including the ESKAPE pathogens, E. coli and MRSA. By using the MDC50 concentration of the parent AMP, the method provides high-throughput, quantitative screening of AMP analogues. A unique feature of the MDC assay is that it directly measures peptide/bacteria interactions and lysed cell numbers rather than bacteria survival as with MIC and MBC assays. With the threat of multi-drug resistant bacteria, this high-throughput MDC assay has the potential to aid in the development of novel antimicrobials that target bacteria with improved efficacy.

Cognitive models of medical decision-making capacity in patients with mild cognitive impairment.

PubMed

Okonkwo, O C; Griffith, H R; Belue, K; Lanza, S; Zamrini, E Y; Harrell, L E; Brockington, J C; Clark, D; Raman, R; Marson, D C

2008-03-01

This study investigated cognitive predictors of medical decision-making capacity (MDC) in patients with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (MCI). A total of 56 healthy controls, 60 patients with MCI, and 31 patients with mild Alzheimer's disease (AD) were administered the Capacity to Consent to Treatment Instrument (CCTI) and a neuropsychological test battery. The CCTI assesses MDC across four established treatment consent standards--S1 (expressing choice), S3 (appreciation), S4 (reasoning), and S5 (understanding)--and one experimental standard [S2] (reasonable choice). Scores on neuropsychological measures were correlated with scores on each CCTI standard. Significant bivariate correlates were subsequently entered into stepwise regression analyses to identity group-specific multivariable predictors of MDC across CCTI standards. Different multivariable cognitive models emerged across groups and consent standards. For the MCI group, measures of short-term verbal memory were key predictors of MDC for each of the three clinically relevant standards (S3, S4, and S5). Secondary predictors were measures of executive function. In contrast, in the mild AD group, measures tapping executive function and processing speed were primary predictors of S3, S4, and S5. MDC in patients with MCI is supported primarily by short-term verbal memory. The findings demonstrate the impact of amnestic deficits on MDC in patients with MCI.

Characterization of a novel MIIA domain-containing protein (MdcE) in Bradyrhizobium spp.

PubMed

Durán, David; Imperial, Juan; Palacios, José; Ruiz-Argüeso, Tomás; Göttfert, Michael; Zehner, Susanne; Rey, Luis

2018-03-01

Several genes coding for proteins with metal ion-inducible autocleavage (MIIA) domains were identified in type III secretion system tts gene clusters from draft genomes of recently isolated Bradyrhizobium spp. MIIA domains have been first described in the effectors NopE1 and NopE2 of Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens USDA 110. All identified genes are preceded by tts box promoter motifs. The identified proteins contain one or two MIIA domains. A phylogenetic analysis of 35 MIIA domain sequences from 16 Bradyrhizobium strains revealed four groups. The protein from Bradyrhizobium sp. LmjC strain contains a single MIIA domain and was designated MdcE (MdcELmjC). It was expressed as a fusion to maltose-binding protein (MalE) in Escherichia coli and subsequently purified by affinity chromatography. Recombinant MalE-MdcELmjC-Strep protein exhibited autocleavage in the presence of Ca2+, Cu2+, Cd2+ and Mn2+, but not in the presence of Mg2+, Ni2+ or Co2+. Site-directed mutagenesis at the predicted cleavage site abolished autocleavage activity of MdcELmjC. An LmjC mdcE- mutant was impaired in the ability to nodulate Lupinus angustifolius and Macroptilium atropurpureum. © FEMS 2017. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Optimizing spray drying conditions of sour cherry juice based on physicochemical properties, using response surface methodology (RSM).

PubMed

Moghaddam, Arasb Dabbagh; Pero, Milad; Askari, Gholam Reza

2017-01-01

In this study, the effects of main spray drying conditions such as inlet air temperature (100-140 °C), maltodextrin concentration (MDC: 30-60%), and aspiration rate (AR) (30-50%) on the physicochemical properties of sour cherry powder such as moisture content (MC), hygroscopicity, water solubility index (WSI), and bulk density were investigated. This investigation was carried out by employing response surface methodology and the process conditions were optimized by using this technique. The MC of the powder was negatively related to the linear effect of the MDC and inlet air temperature (IT) and directly related to the AR. Hygroscopicity of the powder was significantly influenced by the MDC. By increasing MDC in the juice, the hygroscopicity of the powder was decreased. MDC and inlet temperature had a positive effect, but the AR had a negative effect on the WSI of powder. MDC and inlet temperature negatively affected the bulk density of powder. By increasing these two variables, the bulk density of powder was decreased. The optimization procedure revealed that the following conditions resulted in a powder with the maximum solubility and minimum hygroscopicity: MDC = 60%, IT = 134 °C, and AR = 30% with a desirability of 0.875.

Multidisciplinary cancer care in Australia: a national audit highlights gaps in care and medico-legal risk for clinicians.

PubMed

Wilcoxon, Heidi; Luxford, Karen; Saunders, Christobel; Peterson, Janice; Zorbas, Helen

2011-03-01

Multidisciplinary care (MDC) is accepted as best practice in cancer treatment planning and care. Despite recognition of the importance of a team approach, limited data are available about the extent to which MDC has been implemented in Australia. The aim of the audit was to investigate the implementation of MDC for five main cancer types across Australia in line with best practice. A sample of 155 hospitals was surveyed to investigate the status of MDC for cancer treatment planning in Australia across five cancer types (breast, gynecological, lung, prostate and colorectal). The survey investigated team structure, meetings, patient consent, documentation of team recommendations and communication with the patient. Two-thirds of hospitals surveyed did not have a multidisciplinary team. Of those with such a team; in one-third patients were not informed their case would be discussed by the team, in half patient consent was not sought for all cases discussed by the team, in one-quarter the team's recommended treatment plan was not noted in the patient record. Less than 1% of teams reported routine attendance by the tumour-specific minimum core team. MDC is not being implemented in line with best practice or applied consistently across Australia. This audit has highlighted gaps in care delivery, despite national recommendations about MDC. Areas being neglected can affect the quality of care provided and may put clinicians at medico-legal risk. Recommendations to improve uptake and effectiveness of MDC are provided. © 2011 Blackwell Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.

Which is the most useful patient-reported outcome in femoroacetabular impingement? Test-retest reliability of six questionnaires.

PubMed

Hinman, Rana S; Dobson, Fiona; Takla, Amir; O'Donnell, John; Bennell, Kim L

2014-03-01

The most reliable patient-reported outcomes (PROs) for people with femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is unknown because there have been no direct comparisons of questionnaires. Thus, the aim was to evaluate the test-retest reliability of six existing PROs in a single cohort of young active people with hip/groin pain consistent with a clinical diagnosis of FAI. Young adults with clinical FAI completed six PRO questionnaires on two occasions, 1-2 weeks apart. The PROs were modified Harris Hip Score, Hip dysfunction and Osteoarthritis Score, Hip Outcome Score, Non-Arthritic Hip Score, International Hip Outcome Tool, Copenhagen Hip and Groin Outcome Score. 30 young adults (mean age 24 years, SD 4 years, range 18-30 years; 15 men) with stable symptoms participated. Intraclass correlation coefficient(3,1) values ranged from 0.73 to 0.93 (95% CI 0.38 to 0.98) indicating that most questionnaires reached minimal reliability benchmarks. Measurement error at the individual level was quite large for most questionnaires (minimal detectable change (MDC95) 12.4-35.6, 95% CI 8.7 to 54.0). In contrast, measurement error at the group level was quite small for most questionnaires (MDC95 2.2-7.3, 95% CI 1.6 to 11). The majority of the questionnaires were reliable and precise enough for use at the group level. Samples of only 23-30 individuals were required to achieve acceptable measurement variation at the group level. Further direct comparisons of these questionnaires are required to assess other measurement properties such as validity, responsiveness and meaningful change in young people with FAI.

Immediate Effects of Mirror Therapy in Patients With Shoulder Pain and Decreased Range of Motion.

PubMed

Louw, Adriaan; Puentedura, Emilio J; Reese, Dave; Parker, Paula; Miller, Terra; Mintken, Paul E

2017-10-01

To determine the effects of a brief single component of the graded motor imagery (GMI) sequence (mirror therapy) on active range of motion (AROM), pain, fear avoidance, and pain catastrophization in patients with shoulder pain. Single-blind case series. Three outpatient physical therapy clinics. Patients with shoulder pain and limited AROM (N=69). Patients moved their unaffected shoulder through comfortable AROM in front of a mirror so that it appeared that they were moving their affected shoulder. We measured pain, pain catastrophization, fear avoidance, and AROM in 69 consecutive patients with shoulder pain and limited AROM before and immediately after mirror therapy. There were significant differences in self-reported pain (P=.014), pain catastrophization (P<.001), and the Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia (P=.012) immediately after mirror therapy; however, the means did not meet or exceed the minimal detectable change (MDC) for each outcome measure. There was a significant increase (mean, 14.5°) in affected shoulder flexion AROM immediately postmirror therapy (P<.001), which exceeded the MDC of 8°. A brief mirror therapy intervention can result in statistically significant improvements in pain, pain catastrophization, fear avoidance, and shoulder flexion AROM in patients presenting with shoulder pain with limited AROM. The immediate changes may allow a quicker transition to multimodal treatment, including manual therapy and exercise in these patients. Further studies, including randomized controlled trials, are needed to investigate these findings and determine longer-term effects. Copyright © 2017 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Reliability of tensiomyography and myotonometry in detecting mechanical and contractile characteristics of the lumbar erector spinae in healthy volunteers.

PubMed

Lohr, Christine; Braumann, Klaus-Michael; Reer, Ruediger; Schroeder, Jan; Schmidt, Tobias

2018-04-20

Tensiomyography™ (TMG) and MyotonPRO ® (MMT) are two non-invasive devices for monitoring muscle contractile and mechanical characteristics. This study aimed to evaluate the test-retest reliability of TMG and MMT parameters for measuring (TMG:) muscle displacement (D m ), contraction time (T c ), and velocity (V c ) and (MMT:) frequency (F), stiffness (S), and decrement (D) of the erector spinae muscles (ES) in healthy adults. A particular focus was set on the establishment of reliability measures for the previously barely evaluated secondary TMG parameter V c . Twenty-four subjects (13 female and 11 male, mean ± SD, 38.0 ± 12.0 years) were measured using TMG and MMT over 2 consecutive days. Absolute and relative reliability was calculated by standard error of measurement (SEM, SEM%), Minimum detectable change (MDC, MDC%), coefficient of variation (CV%) and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC, 3.1) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). The ICCs for all variables and test-retest intervals ranged from 0.75 to 0.99 indicating a good to excellent relative reliability for both TMG and MMT, demonstrating the lowest values for TMG T c and between-day MMT D (ICC < 0.90). Absolute reliability was suitable for all parameters (CV 2-8%) except for D m (10-12%). V c demonstrated to be the most reliable and repeatable TMG parameter (ICC > 0.95, CV < 8%). The reliability for TMG V c could be established successfully. Its further applicability needs to be confirmed in future studies. MMT was found to be more reliable on repeated testing than the two other TMG parameters D m and T c .

Short-Term Repeatability of Insulin Resistance Indexes in Older Adults: The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study.

PubMed

Poon, Anna K; Meyer, Michelle L; Reaven, Gerald; Knowles, Joshua W; Selvin, Elizabeth; Pankow, James S; Couper, David; Loehr, Laura; Heiss, Gerardo

2018-06-01

The homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and triglyceride (TG)/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) ratio (TG/HDL-C) are insulin resistance indexes routinely used in clinical and population-based studies; however, their short-term repeatability is not well characterized. To quantify the short-term repeatability of insulin resistance indexes and their analytes, consisting of fasting glucose and insulin for HOMA-IR and TG and HDL-C for TG/HDL-C. Prospective cohort study. A total of 102 adults 68 to 88 years old without diabetes attended an initial examination and repeated examination (mean, 46 days; range, 28 to 102 days). Blood samples were collected, processed, shipped, and assayed following a standardized protocol. Repeatability was quantified using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and within-person coefficient of variation (CV). Minimum detectable change (MDC95) and minimum detectable difference with 95% confidence (MDD95) were quantified. For HOMA-IR, insulin, and fasting glucose, the ICCs were 0.70, 0.68, and 0.70, respectively; their respective within-person CVs were 30.4%, 28.8%, and 5.6%. For TG/HDL-C, TG, and HDL-C, the ICCs were 0.80, 0.68, and 0.91, respectively; their respective within-person CVs were 23.0%, 20.6%, and 8.2%. The MDC95 was 2.3 for HOMA-IR and 1.4 for TG/HDL-C. The MDD95 for a sample of n = 100 was 0.8 for HOMA-IR and 0.6 for TG/HDL-C. Short-term repeatability was fair to good for HOMA-IR and excellent for TG/HDL-C according to suggested benchmarks, reflecting the short-term variability of their analytes. These measurement properties can inform the use of these indexes in clinical and population-based studies.

Safety in numbers 7: Veni, vidi, duci: a grounded theory evaluation of nursing students' medication dosage calculation problem-solving schemata construction.

PubMed

Weeks, Keith W; Higginson, Ray; Clochesy, John M; Coben, Diana

2013-03-01

This paper evaluates nursing students' transition through schemata construction and competence development in medication dosage calculation problem-solving (MDC-PS). We advance a grounded theory from interview data that reflects the experiences and perceptions of two groups of undergraduate pre-registration nursing students: eight students exposed to a prototype authentic MDC-PS environment and didactic transmission methods of education and 15 final year students exposed to the safeMedicate authentic MDC-PS environment. We advance a theory of how classroom-based 'chalk and talk' didactic transmission environments offered multiple barriers to accurate MDC-PS schemata construction among novice students. While conversely it was universally perceived by all students that authentic learning and assessment environments enabled MDC-PS schemata construction through facilitating: 'seeing' the authentic features of medication dosage problems; context-based and situational learning; learning within a scaffolded environment that supported construction of cognitive links between the concrete world of clinical MDC-PS and the abstract world of mathematics; and confidence-building in their cognitive and functional competence ability. Drawing on the principle of veni, vidi, duci (I came, I saw, I calculated), we combined the two sets of evaluations to offer a grounded theoretical basis for schemata construction and competence development within this critical domain of professional practice. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Parametrization of an Orbital-Based Linear-Scaling Quantum Force Field for Noncovalent Interactions

PubMed Central

2015-01-01

We parametrize a linear-scaling quantum mechanical force field called mDC for the accurate reproduction of nonbonded interactions. We provide a new benchmark database of accurate ab initio interactions between sulfur-containing molecules. A variety of nonbond databases are used to compare the new mDC method with other semiempirical, molecular mechanical, ab initio, and combined semiempirical quantum mechanical/molecular mechanical methods. It is shown that the molecular mechanical force field significantly and consistently reproduces the benchmark results with greater accuracy than the semiempirical models and our mDC model produces errors twice as small as the molecular mechanical force field. The comparisons between the methods are extended to the docking of drug candidates to the Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 2 protein receptor. We correlate the protein–ligand binding energies to their experimental inhibition constants and find that the mDC produces the best correlation. Condensed phase simulation of mDC water is performed and shown to produce O–O radial distribution functions similar to TIP4P-EW. PMID:24803856

A Novel Ku-Band/Ka-Band and Ka-Band/E-Band Multimode Waveguide Couplers for Power Measurement of Traveling-Wave Tube Amplifier Harmonic Frequencies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wintucky, Edwin G.; Simons, Rainee N.

2015-01-01

This paper presents the design, fabrication and test results for a novel waveguide multimode directional coupler (MDC). The coupler, fabricated from two dissimilar frequency band waveguides, is capable of isolating power at the second harmonic frequency from the fundamental power at the output port of a traveling-wave tube (TWT) amplifier. Test results from proof-of-concept demonstrations are presented for a Ku-band/Ka-band MDC and a Ka-band/E-band MDC. In addition to power measurements at harmonic frequencies, a potential application of the MDC is in the design of a satellite borne beacon source for atmospheric propagation studies at millimeter-wave (mm-wave) frequencies (Ka-band and E-band).

Defining the minimum clinically important difference for grade I degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis: insights from the Quality Outcomes Database.

PubMed

Asher, Anthony L; Kerezoudis, Panagiotis; Mummaneni, Praveen V; Bisson, Erica F; Glassman, Steven D; Foley, Kevin T; Slotkin, Jonathan; Potts, Eric A; Shaffrey, Mark E; Shaffrey, Christopher I; Coric, Domagoj; Knightly, John J; Park, Paul; Fu, Kai-Ming; Devin, Clinton J; Archer, Kristin R; Chotai, Silky; Chan, Andrew K; Virk, Michael S; Bydon, Mohamad

2018-01-01

OBJECTIVE Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) play a pivotal role in defining the value of surgical interventions for spinal disease. The concept of minimum clinically important difference (MCID) is considered the new standard for determining the effectiveness of a given treatment and describing patient satisfaction in response to that treatment. The purpose of this study was to determine the MCID associated with surgical treatment for degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis. METHODS The authors queried the Quality Outcomes Database registry from July 2014 through December 2015 for patients who underwent posterior lumbar surgery for grade I degenerative spondylolisthesis. Recorded PROs included scores on the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), EQ-5D, and numeric rating scale (NRS) for leg pain (NRS-LP) and back pain (NRS-BP). Anchor-based (using the North American Spine Society satisfaction scale) and distribution-based (half a standard deviation, small Cohen's effect size, standard error of measurement, and minimum detectable change [MDC]) methods were used to calculate the MCID for each PRO. RESULTS A total of 441 patients (80 who underwent laminectomies alone and 361 who underwent fusion procedures) from 11 participating sites were included in the analysis. The changes in functional outcome scores between baseline and the 1-year postoperative evaluation were as follows: 23.5 ± 17.4 points for ODI, 0.24 ± 0.23 for EQ-5D, 4.1 ± 3.5 for NRS-LP, and 3.7 ± 3.2 for NRS-BP. The different calculation methods generated a range of MCID values for each PRO: 3.3-26.5 points for ODI, 0.04-0.3 points for EQ-5D, 0.6-4.5 points for NRS-LP, and 0.5-4.2 points for NRS-BP. The MDC approach appeared to be the most appropriate for calculating MCID because it provided a threshold greater than the measurement error and was closest to the average change difference between the satisfied and not-satisfied patients. On subgroup analysis, the MCID thresholds for laminectomy-alone patients were comparable to those for the patients who underwent arthrodesis as well as for the entire cohort. CONCLUSIONS The MCID for PROs was highly variable depending on the calculation technique. The MDC seems to be a statistically and clinically sound method for defining the appropriate MCID value for patients with grade I degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis. Based on this method, the MCID values are 14.3 points for ODI, 0.2 points for EQ-5D, 1.7 points for NRS-LP, and 1.6 points for NRS-BP.

Stimulating Multiple-Demand Cortex Enhances Vocabulary Learning

PubMed Central

Wise, Richard J.S.; Geranmayeh, Fatemeh; Hampshire, Adam

2017-01-01

It is well established that networks within multiple-demand cortex (MDC) become active when diverse skills and behaviors are being learnt. However, their causal role in learning remains to be established. In the present study, we first performed functional magnetic resonance imaging on healthy female and male human participants to confirm that MDC was most active in the initial stages of learning a novel vocabulary, consisting of pronounceable nonwords (pseudowords), each associated with a picture of a real object. We then examined, in healthy female and male human participants, whether repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation of a frontal midline node of the cingulo-opercular MDC affected learning rates specifically during the initial stages of learning. We report that stimulation of this node, but not a control brain region, substantially improved both accuracy and response times during the earliest stage of learning pseudoword–object associations. This stimulation had no effect on the processing of established vocabulary, tested by the accuracy and response times when participants decided whether a real word was accurately paired with a picture of an object. These results provide evidence that noninvasive stimulation to MDC nodes can enhance learning rates, thereby demonstrating their causal role in the learning process. We propose that this causal role makes MDC candidate target for experimental therapeutics; for example, in stroke patients with aphasia attempting to reacquire a vocabulary. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Learning a task involves the brain system within which that specific task becomes established. Therefore, successfully learning a new vocabulary establishes the novel words in the language system. However, there is evidence that in the early stages of learning, networks within multiple-demand cortex (MDC), which control higher cognitive functions, such as working memory, attention, and monitoring of performance, become active. This activity declines once the task is learnt. The present study demonstrated that a node within MDC, located in midline frontal cortex, becomes active during the early stage of learning a novel vocabulary. Importantly, noninvasive brain stimulation of this node improved performance during this stage of learning. This observation demonstrated that MDC activity is important for learning. PMID:28676576

Response of zircon to melting and metamorphism in deep arc crust, Fiordland (New Zealand): implications for zircon inheritance in cordilleran granites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bhattacharya, Shrema; Kemp, A. I. S.; Collins, W. J.

2018-04-01

The Cretaceous Mount Daniel Complex (MDC) in northern Fiordland, New Zealand was emplaced as a 50 m-thick dyke and sheet complex into an active shear zone at the base of a Cordilleran magmatic arc. It was emplaced below the 20-25 km-thick, 125.3 ± 1.3 Ma old Western Fiordland Orthogneiss (WFO) and is characterized by metre-scale sheets of sodic, low and high Sr/Y diorites and granites. 119.3 ± 1.2 Ma old, pre-MDC lattice dykes and 117.4 ± 3.1 Ma late-MDC lattice dykes constrain the age of the MDC itself. Most dykes were isoclinally folded as they intruded, but crystallised within this deep-crustal, magma-transfer zone as the terrain cooled and was buried from 25 to 50 km (9-14 kbar), based on published P-T estimated from the surrounding country rocks. Zircon grains formed under these magmatic/granulite facies metamorphic conditions were initially characterized by conservatively assigning zircons with oscillatory zoning as igneous and featureless rims as metamorphic, representing 54% of the analysed grains. Further petrological assignment involved additional parameters such as age, morphology, Th/U ratios, REE patterns and Ti-in-zircon temperature estimates. Using this integrative approach, assignment of analysed grains to metamorphic or igneous groupings improved to 98%. A striking feature of the MDC is that only 2% of all igneous zircon grains reflect emplacement, so that the zircon cargo was almost entirely inherited, even in dioritic magmas. Metamorphic zircons of MDC show a cooler temperature range of 740-640 °C, reflects the moderate ambient temperature of the lower crust during MDC emplacement. The MDC also provides a cautionary tale: in the absence of robust field and microstructural relations, the igneous-zoned zircon population at 122.1 ± 1.3 Ma, derived mostly from inherited zircons of the WFO, would be meaningless in terms of actual magmatic emplacement age of MDC, where the latter is further obscured by younger (ca. 114 Ma) metamorphic overgrowths. Thus, our integrative approach provides the opportunity to discriminate between igneous and metamorphic zircon within deep-crustal complexes. Also, without the tight field relations at Mt Daniel, the scatter beyond a statistically coherent group might be ascribed to the presence of "antecrysts", but it is clear that the WFO solidified before the MDC was emplaced, and these older "igneous" grains are inherited. The bimodal age range of inherited igneous grains, dominated by 125 Ma and 350-320 Ma age clusters, indicate that the adjacent WFO and a Carboniferous metaigneous basement were the main sources of the MDC magmas. Mafic lenses, stretched and highly attenuated into wisps within the MDC and dominated by 124 Ma inherited zircons, are considered to be entrained restitic material from the WFO. A comparison with lower- and upper-crustal, high Sr/Y metaluminous granites elsewhere in Fiordland shows that zircon inheritance is common in the deep crust, near the source region, but generally much less so in coeval, shallow magma chambers (plutons). This is consistent with previous modelling on rapid zircon dissolution rates and high Zr saturation concentrations in metaluminous magmas. Accordingly, unless unusual circumstances exist, such as MDC preservation in the deep crust, low temperatures of magma generation, or rapid emplacement and crystallization at higher structural levels, information on zircon inheritance in upper crustal, Cordilleran plutons is lost during zircon dissolution, along with information on the age, nature and variety of the source material. The observation that dioritic magmas can form at these low temperatures (< 750 °C) also suggests that the petrogenesis of mafic rocks in the arc root might need to be re-assessed.

Maxwell displacement current allows to study structural changes of gramicidin A in monolayers at the air-water interface.

PubMed

Vitovic, Pavol; Weis, Martin; Tomcík, Pavol; Cirák, Július; Hianik, Tibor

2007-05-01

We applied methods of measurement Maxwell displacement current (MDC) pressure-area isotherms and dipole potential for analysis of the properties of gramicidin A (gA) and mixed gA/DMPC monolayers at an air-water interface. The MDC method allowed us to observe the kinetics of formation of secondary structure of gA in monolayers at an air-water interface. We showed, that secondary structure starts to form at rather low area per molecule at which gA monolayers are in gaseous state. Changes of the MDC during compression can be attributed to the reorientation of dipole moments in a gA double helix at area 7 nm(2)/molecule, followed by the formation of intertwined double helix of gA. The properties of gA in mixed monolayers depend on the molar fraction of gA/DMPC. At higher molar fractions of gA (around 0.5) the shape of the changes of dipole moment of mixed monolayer was similar to that for pure gA. The analysis of excess free energy in a gel (18( ) degrees C) and in a liquid-crystalline phase (28( ) degrees C) allowed us to show influence of the monolayer structural state on the interaction between gA and the phospholipids. In a gel state and at the gA/DMPC molar ratio below 0.17 the aggregates of gA were formed, while above this molar ratio gA interacts favorably with DMPC. In contrast, for DMPC in a liquid-crystalline state aggregation of gA was observed for all molar fractions studied. The effect of formation ordered structures between gA and DMPC is more pronounced at low temperatures.

Demonstration of the test-retest reliability and sensitivity of the Lower Limb Functional Index-10 as a measure of functional recovery post burn injury: a cross-sectional repeated measures study design.

PubMed

Ryland, Margaret E; Grisbrook, Tiffany L; Wood, Fiona M; Phillips, Michael; Edgar, Dale W

2016-01-01

Lower limb burns can significantly delay recovery of function. Measuring lower limb functional outcomes is challenging in the unique burn patient population and necessitates the use of reliable and valid tools. The aims of this study were to examine the test-retest reliability, sensitivity, and internal consistency of Sections 1 and 3 of the Lower Limb Functional Index-10 (LLFI-10) questionnaire for measuring functional ability in patients with lower limb burns over time. Twenty-nine adult patients who had sustained a lower limb burn injury in the previous 12 months completed the test-retest procedure of the study. In addition, the minimal detectable change (MDC) was calculated for Section 1 and 3 of the LLFI-10. Section 1 is focused on the activity limitations experienced by patients with a lower limb disorder whereas Section 3 involves patients indicating their current percentage of pre-injury duties. Section 1 of the LLFI-10 demonstrated excellent test-retest reliability (intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) 0.98, 95 % CI 0.96-0.99) whilst Section 3 demonstrated high test-retest reliability (ICC 0.88, 95 % CI 0.79-0.94). MDC scores for Sections 1 and 3 were 1.27 points and 30.22 %, respectively. Internal consistency was demonstrated with a significant negative association (r s  = -0.83) between Sections 1 and 3 of the LLFI-10 (p < 0.001). This study demonstrates that Section 1 and 3 of the LLFI-10 are reliable for measuring functional ability in patients who have sustained lower limb burns in the previous 12 months, and furthermore, Section 1 is sensitive to changes in patient function over time.

Inter- and intrarater reliability of two proprioception tests using clinical applicable measurement tools in subjects with and without knee osteoarthritis.

PubMed

Baert, Isabel A C; Lluch, Enrique; Struyf, Thomas; Peeters, Greta; Van Oosterwijck, Sophie; Tuynman, Joanna; Rufai, Salim; Struyf, Filip

2018-06-01

The therapeutic value of proprioceptive-based exercises in knee osteoarthritis (KOA) management warrants investigation of proprioceptive testing methods easily accessible in clinical practice. To estimate inter- and intrarater reliability of the knee joint position sense (KJPS) test and knee force sense (KFS) test in subjects with and without KOA. Cross-sectional test-retest design. Two blinded raters performed independently repeated measures of the KJPS and KFS test, using an analogue inclinometer and handheld dynamometer, respectively, in eight KOA patients (12 symptomatic knees) and 26 healthy controls (52 asymptomatic knees). Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs; model 2,1), standard error of measurement (SEM) and minimal detectable change with 95% confidence bounds (MDC 95 ) were calculated. For KJPS, results showed good to excellent test-retest agreement (ICCs 0.70-0.95 in KOA patients; ICCs 0.65-0.85 in healthy controls). A 2° measurement error (SEM 1°) was reported when measuring KJPS in multiple test positions and calculating mean repositioning error. Testing KOA patients pre and post therapy a repositioning error larger than 4° (MDC 95 ) is needed to consider true change. Measuring KFS using handheld dynamometry showed poor to fair interrater and poor to excellent intrarater reliability in subjects with and without KOA. Measuring KJPS in multiple test positions using an analogue inclinometer and calculating mean repositioning error is reliable and can be used in clinical practice. We do not recommend the use of the KFS test to clinicians. Further research is required to establish diagnostic accuracy and validity of our KJPS test in larger knee pain populations. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Credit where credit is due: indexing and exposing data citations in international data repository networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jones, M. B.; Vieglais, D.; Cruse, P.; Chodacki, J.; Budden, A. E.; Fenner, M.; Lowenberg, D.; Abrams, S.

2017-12-01

Research data are fundamental to the success of the academic enterprise, and yet the practice of citing data in academic and applied works is not widespread among researchers. Researchers need credit for their contributions, and yet current citation infrastructure focuses primarily on citations to research literature. Some citation indiexing systems even systematically exclude citations to data from their corpus. The Making Data Count (MDC) project will enable measuring the impact of research data much as is currently being done with publications, the primary vehicle for scholarly credit and accountability. The MDC team (including the California Digital Library, COUNTER, DataCite, and DataONE) are working together to publish a new COUNTER recommendation on data usage statistics; launch a DataCite-hosted MDC service for aggregated DLM based on the open-source Lagotto platform; and build tools for data repository and discovery services to easily integrate with the new MDC service. In providing such data-level metrics (DLM), the MDC project augments existing measures of scholarly success and so offers an important incentive promoting open data principles and quality research data through adoption of research data management best practices.

Reaction of carbon dioxide with a palladium-alkyl complex supported by a bis-NHC framework.

PubMed

Ariyananda, Piyal W G; Yap, Glenn P A; Rosenthal, Joel

2012-07-14

The reactivity of a dimethyl palladium complex supported by a dicarbene chelate (MDC(Mes))PdMe(2) towards CO(2) has been investigated. In the presence of trace H(2)O, this reaction yields the corresponding methyl bicarbonate complex (MDC(Mes))PdMe(O(2)COH), which goes on to give the corresponding κ(2)-carbonato complex upon crystallization (MDC(Mes))Pd(CO(3)). This chemistry, as well as related protonolysis by acetic acid was monitored by a combination of techniques including React-IR spectroscopy.

Tankyrases Promote Homologous Recombination and Check Point Activation in Response to DSBs

PubMed Central

Furst, Audrey; Koch, Marc; Fischer, Benoit; Soutoglou, Evi

2016-01-01

DNA lesions are sensed by a network of proteins that trigger the DNA damage response (DDR), a signaling cascade that acts to delay cell cycle progression and initiate DNA repair. The Mediator of DNA damage Checkpoint protein 1 (MDC1) is essential for spreading of the DDR signaling on chromatin surrounding Double Strand Breaks (DSBs) by acting as a scaffold for PI3K kinases and for ubiquitin ligases. MDC1 also plays a role both in Non-Homologous End Joining (NHEJ) and Homologous Recombination (HR) repair pathways. Here we identify two novel binding partners of MDC1, the poly (ADP-ribose) Polymerases (PARPs) TNKS1 and 2. We find that TNKSs are recruited to DNA lesions by MDC1 and regulate DNA end resection and BRCA1A complex stabilization at lesions leading to efficient DSB repair by HR and proper checkpoint activation. PMID:26845027

Brugia malayi and Acanthocheilonema viteae: antifilarial activity of transglutaminase inhibitors in vitro.

PubMed Central

Rao, U R; Mehta, K; Subrahmanyam, D; Vickery, A C

1991-01-01

The possible involvement of transglutaminase-catalyzed reactions in survival of adult worms, microfilariae (mf), and infective larvae of the filarial parasite Brugia malayi was studied in vitro by using the specific pseudosubstrate monodansylcadaverine (MDC) and the active-site inhibitors cystamine or iodoacetamide. These inhibitors significantly inhibited parasite mobility in a dose-dependent manner. This inhibition was associated with irreversible biochemical lesions followed by filarial death. A structurally related, inactive analog of MDC, dimethyldansylcadaverine, did not affect the mobility or survival of the parasites. Adult worms failed to release mf when they were incubated in the presence of MDC or cystamine, and this inhibitory effect on mf release was concentration dependent. Similar embryostatic and macrofilaricidal effects of MDC were observed in Acanthocheilonema viteae adult worms. These studies suggest that transglutaminase-catalyzed reactions may play an important role in the growth, development, and survival of filarial parasites. PMID:1687106

Reliability of ultrasound thickness measurement of the abdominal muscles during clinical isometric endurance tests.

PubMed

ShahAli, Shabnam; Arab, Amir Massoud; Talebian, Saeed; Ebrahimi, Esmaeil; Bahmani, Andia; Karimi, Noureddin; Nabavi, Hoda

2015-07-01

The study was designed to evaluate the intra-examiner reliability of ultrasound (US) thickness measurement of abdominal muscles activity when supine lying and during two isometric endurance tests in subjects with and without Low back pain (LBP). A total of 19 women (9 with LBP, 10 without LBP) participated in the study. Within-day reliability of the US thickness measurements at supine lying and the two isometric endurance tests were assessed in all subjects. The intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to assess the relative reliability of thickness measurement. The standard error of measurement (SEM), minimal detectable change (MDC) and the coefficient of variation (CV) were used to evaluate the absolute reliability. Results indicated high ICC scores (0.73-0.99) and also small SEM and MDC scores for within-day reliability assessment. The Bland-Altman plots of agreement in US measurement of the abdominal muscles during the two isometric endurance tests demonstrated that 95% of the observations fall between the limits of agreement for test and retest measurements. Together the results indicate high intra-tester reliability for the US measurement of the thickness of abdominal muscles in all the positions tested. According to the study's findings, US imaging can be used as a reliable method for assessment of abdominal muscles activity in supine lying and the two isometric endurance tests employed, in participants with and without LBP. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Reliability of spatial-temporal gait parameters during dual-task interference in people with multiple sclerosis. A cross-sectional study.

PubMed

Monticone, Marco; Ambrosini, Emilia; Fiorentini, Roberta; Rocca, Barbara; Liquori, Valentina; Pedrocchi, Alessandra; Ferrante, Simona

2014-09-01

To evaluate the reliability and minimum detectable change (MDC) of spatial-temporal gait parameters in subjects with multiple sclerosis (MS) during dual tasking. This cross-sectional study involved 25 healthy subjects (mean age 49.9 ± 15.8 years) and 25 people with MS (mean age 49.2 ± 11.5 years). Gait under motor-cognitive and motor-motor dual tasking conditions was evaluated in two sessions separated by a one-day interval using the GAITRite Walkway System. Test-retest reliability was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), standard errors of measurement (SEM), and coefficients of variation (CV). MDC scores were computed for the velocity, cadence, step and stride length, step and stride time, double support time, the % of gait cycle for single support and stance phase, and base of support. All of the gait parameters reported good to excellent ICCs under both conditions, with healthy subject values of >0.69 and MS subject values of >0.84. SEM values were always below 18% for both groups of subjects. The gait patterns of the people with MS were slightly more variable than those of the normal controls (CVs: 5.88-41.53% vs 2.84-30.48%). The assessment of quantitative gait parameters in healthy subjects and people with MS is highly reliable under both of the investigated dual tasking conditions. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Reliability of different methodologies of infrared image analysis of myofascial trigger points in the upper trapezius muscle

PubMed Central

Dibai-Filho, Almir V.; Guirro, Elaine C. O.; Ferreira, Vânia T. K.; Brandino, Hugo E.; Vaz, Maíta M. O. L. L.; Guirro, Rinaldo R. J.

2015-01-01

BACKGROUND: Infrared thermography is recognized as a viable method for evaluation of subjects with myofascial pain. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to assess the intra- and inter-rater reliability of infrared image analysis of myofascial trigger points in the upper trapezius muscle. METHOD: A reliability study was conducted with 24 volunteers of both genders (23 females) between 18 and 30 years of age (22.12±2.54), all having cervical pain and presence of active myofascial trigger point in the upper trapezius muscle. Two trained examiners performed analysis of point, line, and area of the infrared images at two different periods with a 1-week interval. The intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC2,1) was used to assess the intra- and inter-rater reliability. RESULTS: With regard to the intra-rater reliability, ICC values were between 0.591 and 0.993, with temperatures between 0.13 and 1.57 °C for values of standard error of measurement (SEM) and between 0.36 and 4.35 °C for the minimal detectable change (MDC). For the inter-rater reliability, ICC ranged from 0.615 to 0.918, with temperatures between 0.43 and 1.22 °C for the SEM and between 1.19 and 3.38 °C for the MDC. CONCLUSION: The methods of infrared image analyses of myofascial trigger points in the upper trapezius muscle employed in the present study are suitable for clinical and research practices. PMID:25993626

Reliability analysis of a sensitive and independent stabilometry parameter set

PubMed Central

Nagymáté, Gergely; Orlovits, Zsanett

2018-01-01

Recent studies have suggested reduced independent and sensitive parameter sets for stabilometry measurements based on correlation and variance analyses. However, the reliability of these recommended parameter sets has not been studied in the literature or not in every stance type used in stabilometry assessments, for example, single leg stances. The goal of this study is to evaluate the test-retest reliability of different time-based and frequency-based parameters that are calculated from the center of pressure (CoP) during bipedal and single leg stance for 30- and 60-second measurement intervals. Thirty healthy subjects performed repeated standing trials in a bipedal stance with eyes open and eyes closed conditions and in a single leg stance with eyes open for 60 seconds. A force distribution measuring plate was used to record the CoP. The reliability of the CoP parameters was characterized by using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), standard error of measurement (SEM), minimal detectable change (MDC), coefficient of variation (CV) and CV compliance rate (CVCR). Based on the ICC, SEM and MDC results, many parameters yielded fair to good reliability values, while the CoP path length yielded the highest reliability (smallest ICC > 0.67 (0.54–0.79), largest SEM% = 19.2%). Usually, frequency type parameters and extreme value parameters yielded poor reliability values. There were differences in the reliability of the maximum CoP velocity (better with 30 seconds) and mean power frequency (better with 60 seconds) parameters between the different sampling intervals. PMID:29664938

Reliability analysis of a sensitive and independent stabilometry parameter set.

PubMed

Nagymáté, Gergely; Orlovits, Zsanett; Kiss, Rita M

2018-01-01

Recent studies have suggested reduced independent and sensitive parameter sets for stabilometry measurements based on correlation and variance analyses. However, the reliability of these recommended parameter sets has not been studied in the literature or not in every stance type used in stabilometry assessments, for example, single leg stances. The goal of this study is to evaluate the test-retest reliability of different time-based and frequency-based parameters that are calculated from the center of pressure (CoP) during bipedal and single leg stance for 30- and 60-second measurement intervals. Thirty healthy subjects performed repeated standing trials in a bipedal stance with eyes open and eyes closed conditions and in a single leg stance with eyes open for 60 seconds. A force distribution measuring plate was used to record the CoP. The reliability of the CoP parameters was characterized by using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), standard error of measurement (SEM), minimal detectable change (MDC), coefficient of variation (CV) and CV compliance rate (CVCR). Based on the ICC, SEM and MDC results, many parameters yielded fair to good reliability values, while the CoP path length yielded the highest reliability (smallest ICC > 0.67 (0.54-0.79), largest SEM% = 19.2%). Usually, frequency type parameters and extreme value parameters yielded poor reliability values. There were differences in the reliability of the maximum CoP velocity (better with 30 seconds) and mean power frequency (better with 60 seconds) parameters between the different sampling intervals.

Secondary-electron-emission losses in multistage depressed collectors and traveling-wave-tube efficiency improvements with carbon collector electrode surfaces

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ramins, P.; Ebihara, B. T.

1986-01-01

Secondary-electron-emission losses in multistage depressed collectors (MDC's) and their effects on overall traveling-wave-tube (TWT) efficiency were investigated. Two representative TWT's and several computer-modeled MDC's were used. The experimental techniques provide the measurement of both the TWT overall and the collector efficiencies. The TWT-MDC performance was optimized and measured over a wide range of operating conditions, with geometrically identical collectors, which utilized different electrode surface materials. Comparisons of the performance of copper electrodes to that of various forms of carbon, including pyrolytic and iisotropic graphites, were stressed. The results indicate that: (1) a significant improvement in the TWT overall efficiency was obtained in all cases by the use of carbon, rather than copper electrodes, and (2) that the extent of this efficiency enhancement depended on the characteristics of the TWT, the TWT operating point, the MDC design, and collector voltages. Ion textured graphite was found to be particularly effective in minimizing the secondary-electron-emission losses. Experimental and analytical results, however, indicate that it is at least as important to provide a maximum amount of electrostatic suppression of secondary electrons by proper MDC design. Such suppression, which is obtained by ensuring that a substantial suppressing electric field exists over the regions of the electrodes where most of the current is incident, was found to be very effective. Experimental results indicate that, with proper MDC design and the use of electrode surfaces with low secondary-electron yield, degradation of the collector efficiency can be limited to a few percent.

A spatial analysis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) cases in the United States and their proximity to multidisciplinary ALS clinics, 2013.

PubMed

Horton, D Kevin; Graham, Shannon; Punjani, Reshma; Wilt, Grete; Kaye, Wendy; Maginnis, Kimberly; Webb, Lauren; Richman, Judy; Bedlack, Richard; Tessaro, Edward; Mehta, Paul

2018-02-01

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal motor neuron disease that typically results in death within 2-5 years of initial symptom onset. Multidisciplinary ALS clinics (MDCs) have been established to provide specialty care to people living with the disease. To estimate the proximity of ALS prevalence cases to the nearest MDC in the US to help evaluate one aspect of access to care. Using 2013 prevalence data from the National ALS Registry, cases were geocoded by city using geographic information system (GIS) software, along with the locations of all MDCs in operation during 2013. Case-to-MDC proximity was calculated and analyzed by sex, race, and age group. During 2013, there were 72 MDCs in operation in 30 different states. A total of 15,633 ALS cases were geocoded and were distributed throughout all 50 states. Of these, 62.6% were male, 77.9% were white, and 76.2% were 50-79 years old. For overall case-to-MDC proximity, nearly half (44.9%) of all geocoded cases in the US lived >50 miles from an MDC, including approximately a quarter who lived >100 miles from an MDC. There was a statistically significant difference between distance to MDC by race and age group. The high percentage of those living more than 50 miles from the nearest specialized clinic underscores one of the many challenges of ALS. Having better access to care, whether at MDCs or through other modalities, is likely key to increasing survivability and obtaining appropriate end-of-life treatment and support for people with ALS.

Evaluation of the use of malic acid decarboxylase-deficient starter culture in NaCl-free cucumber fermentations to reduce bloater incidence.

PubMed

Zhai, Y; Pérez-Díaz, I M; Diaz, J T; Lombardi, R L; Connelly, L E

2018-01-01

Accumulation of carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) in cucumber fermentations is known to cause hollow cavities inside whole fruits or bloaters, conducive to economic losses for the pickling industry. This study focused on evaluating the use of a malic acid decarboxylase (MDC)-deficient starter culture to minimize CO 2 production and the resulting bloater index in sodium chloride-free cucumber fermentations brined with CaCl 2 . Attempts to isolate autochthonous MDC-deficient starter cultures from commercial fermentations, using the MD medium for screening, were unsuccessful. The utilization of allochthonous MDC-deficient starter cultures resulted in incomplete utilization of sugars and delayed fermentations. Acidified fermentations were considered, to suppress the indigenous microbiota and favour proliferation of the allochthonous MDC-deficient Lactobacillus plantarum starter cultures. Inoculation of acidified fermentations with L. plantarum alone or in combination with Lactobacillus brevis minimally improved the conversion of sugars. However, inoculation of the pure allochthonous MDC-deficient starter culture to 10 7 CFU per ml in acidified fermentations resulted in a reduced bloater index as compared to wild fermentations and those inoculated with the mixed starter culture. Although use of an allochthonous MDC-deficient starter culture reduces bloater index in acidified cucumber fermentations brined with CaCl 2 , an incomplete conversion of sugars is observed. Economical losses due to the incidence of bloaters in commercial cucumber fermentations brined with CaCl 2 may be reduced utilizing a starter culture to high cell density. Published 2017. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.

Identification of three new phase II metabolites of a designer drug methylone formed in rats by N-demethylation followed by conjugation with dicarboxylic acids.

PubMed

Židková, Monika; Linhart, Igor; Balíková, Marie; Himl, Michal; Dvořáčková, Veronika; Lhotková, Eva; Páleníček, Tomáš

2018-06-01

1. Methylone (3,4-methylenedioxy-N-methylcathinone, MDMC), which appeared on the illicit drug market in 2004, is a frequently abused synthetic cathinone derivative. Known metabolic pathways of MDMC include N-demethylation to normethylone (3,4-methylenedioxycathinone, MDC), aliphatic chain hydroxylation and oxidative demethylenation followed by monomethylation and conjugation with glucuronic acid and/or sulphate. 2. Three new phase II metabolites, amidic conjugates of MDC with succinic, glutaric and adipic acid, were identified in the urine of rats dosed subcutaneously with MDMC.HCl (20 mg/kg body weight) by LC-ESI-HRMS using synthetic reference standards to support identification. 3. The main portion of administered MDMC was excreted unchanged. Normethylone, was a major urinary metabolite, of which a minor part was conjugated with dicarboxylic acids. 4. Previously identified ring-opened metabolites 4-hydroxy-3-methoxymethcathinone (4-OH-3-MeO-MC), 3-hydroxy-4-methoxymeth-cathinone (3-OH-4-MeO-MC) and 3,4-dihydroxymethcathinone (3,4-di-OH-MC) mostly in conjugated form with glucuronic and/or sulphuric acids were also detected. 5. Also, ring-opened metabolites derived from MDC, namely, 4-hydroxy-3-methoxycathinone (4-OH-3-MeO-C), 3-hydroxy-4-methoxycathinone (3-OH-4-MeO-C) and 3,4-dihydroxycathinone (3,4-di-OH-C) were identified for the first time in vivo.

Managing per Member per Month (PMPM). Findings Regarding Variation and Drivers of Cost

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-01-25

BenGrpDiag Desc RVU/100 Vst /100 RVU/100 Vst /100 Delta Pct 8 AD 7242 LUMBAGO 41.98 26.27 63.37 40.88 21.39 50.9% 71946 JOINT...Conference 30 All Enrollee AD MDC-19 MH Top 25 Primary Diagnosis with increases 2006 2009 MDC Adj BenGrpDiag Desc RVU/100 Vst /100 RVU/100 Vst /100 Delta Pct 19...Diagnosis with increases MDC Adj BenGrp Diag Desc RVU/100 Vst /100 RVU/100 Vst /100 Delta Pct 23 AD V705 HEALTH EXAMINATION OF DEFINED NATURE 300.25

MDC1: The art of keeping things in focus.

PubMed

Jungmichel, Stephanie; Stucki, Manuel

2010-08-01

The chromatin structure is important for recognition and repair of DNA damage. Many DNA damage response proteins accumulate in large chromatin domains flanking sites of DNA double-strand breaks. The assembly of these structures-usually termed DNA damage foci-is primarily regulated by MDC1, a large nuclear mediator/adaptor protein that is composed of several distinct structural and functional domains. Here, we are summarizing the latest discoveries about the mechanisms by which MDC1 mediates DNA damage foci formation, and we are reviewing the considerable efforts taken to understand the functional implication of these structures.

IAU MDC Photographic Meteor Orbits Database: Version 2013

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Neslušan, L.; Porubčan, V.; Svoreň, J.

2014-05-01

A new 2013 version of the IAU MDC photographic meteor orbits database which is an upgrade of the current 2003 version (Lindblad et al. 2003, EMP 93:249-260) is presented. To the 2003 version additional 292 orbits are added, thus the new version of the database consists of 4,873 meteors with their geophysical and orbital parameters compiled in 41 catalogues. For storing the data, a new format enabling a more simple treatment with the parameters, including the errors of their determination is applied. The data can be downloaded from the IAU MDC web site: http://www.astro.sk/IAUMDC/Ph2013/

MDC-Analyzer: a novel degenerate primer design tool for the construction of intelligent mutagenesis libraries with contiguous sites.

PubMed

Tang, Lixia; Wang, Xiong; Ru, Beibei; Sun, Hengfei; Huang, Jian; Gao, Hui

2014-06-01

Recent computational and bioinformatics advances have enabled the efficient creation of novel biocatalysts by reducing amino acid variability at hot spot regions. To further expand the utility of this strategy, we present here a tool called Multi-site Degenerate Codon Analyzer (MDC-Analyzer) for the automated design of intelligent mutagenesis libraries that can completely cover user-defined randomized sequences, especially when multiple contiguous and/or adjacent sites are targeted. By initially defining an objective function, the possible optimal degenerate PCR primer profiles could be automatically explored using the heuristic approach of Greedy Best-First-Search. Compared to the previously developed DC-Analyzer, MDC-Analyzer allows for the existence of a small amount of undesired sequences as a tradeoff between the number of degenerate primers and the encoded library size while still providing all the benefits of DC-Analyzer with the ability to randomize multiple contiguous sites. MDC-Analyzer was validated using a series of randomly generated mutation schemes and experimental case studies on the evolution of halohydrin dehalogenase, which proved that the MDC methodology is more efficient than other methods and is particularly well-suited to exploring the sequence space of proteins using data-driven protein engineering strategies.

Intra and inter-session reliability of rapid Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation stimulus-response curves of tibialis anterior muscle in healthy older adults.

PubMed

Peri, Elisabetta; Ambrosini, Emilia; Colombo, Vera Maria; van de Ruit, Mark; Grey, Michael J; Monticone, Marco; Ferriero, Giorgio; Pedrocchi, Alessandra; Ferrigno, Giancarlo; Ferrante, Simona

2017-01-01

The clinical use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) as a technique to assess corticospinal excitability is limited by the time for data acquisition and the measurement variability. This study aimed at evaluating the reliability of Stimulus-Response (SR) curves acquired with a recently proposed rapid protocol on tibialis anterior muscle of healthy older adults. Twenty-four neurologically-intact adults (age:55-75 years) were recruited for this test-retest study. During each session, six SR curves, 3 at rest and 3 during isometric muscle contractions at 5% of maximum voluntary contraction (MVC), were acquired. Motor Evoked Potentials (MEPs) were normalized to the maximum peripherally evoked response; the coil position and orientation were monitored with an optical tracking system. Intra- and inter-session reliability of motor threshold (MT), area under the curve (AURC), MEPmax, stimulation intensity at which the MEP is mid-way between MEPmax and MEPmin (I50), slope in I50, MEP latency, and silent period (SP) were assessed in terms of Standard Error of Measurement (SEM), relative SEM, Minimum Detectable Change (MDC), and Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC). The relative SEM was ≤10% for MT, I50, latency and SP both at rest and 5%MVC, while it ranged between 11% and 37% for AURC, MEPmax, and slope. MDC values were overall quite large; e.g., MT required a change of 12%MSO at rest and 10%MSO at 5%MVC to be considered a real change. Inter-sessions ICC were >0.6 for all measures but slope at rest and MEPmax and latency at 5%MVC. Measures derived from SR curves acquired in <4 minutes are affected by similar measurement errors to those found with long-lasting protocols, suggesting that the rapid method is at least as reliable as the traditional methods. As specifically designed to include older adults, this study provides normative data for future studies involving older neurological patients (e.g. stroke survivors).

Haptic-based perception-empathy biofeedback system for balance rehabilitation in patients with chronic stroke: Concepts and initial feasibility study.

PubMed

Yasuda, Kazuhiro; Saichi, Kenta; Kaibuki, Naomi; Harashima, Hiroaki; Iwata, Hiroyasu

2018-05-01

Most individuals have sensory disturbances post stroke, and these deficits contribute to post-stroke balance impairment. The haptic-based biofeedback (BF) system appears to be one of the promising tools for balance rehabilitation in patients with stroke, and the BF system can increase the objectivity of feedback and encouragement than that provided by a therapist. Studies in skill science indicated that feedback or encouragement from a coach or trainer enhances motor learning effect. Nevertheless, the optimal BF system (or its concept) which would refine the interpersonal feedback between patients and therapist has not been proposed. Thus, the purpose of this study was to propose a haptic-based perception-empathy BF system which provides information regarding the patient's center-of-foot pressure (CoP) pattern to the patient and the physical therapist to enhance the motor learning effect and validate the feasibility of this balance-training regimen in patients with chronic stroke. This study used a pre-post design without control group. Nine chronic stroke patients (mean age: 64.4 ± 9.2 years) received a balance-training regimen using this BF system twice a week for 4 weeks. Testing comprised quantitative measures (i.e., CoP) and clinical balance scale (Berg Balance Scale, BBS; Functional Reach Test, FRT; and Timed-Up and Go test, TUG). Post training, patients demonstrated marginally reduced postural spatial variability (i.e., 95% confidence elliptical area), and clinical balance performance significantly improved at post-training. Although the changes in FRT and TUG exceeded the minimal detectable change (MDC), changes in BBS did not reach clinical significance (i.e., smaller than MDC). These results may provide initial knowledge (i.e., beneficial effects, utility and its limitation) of the proposed BF system in designing effective motor learning strategies for stroke rehabilitation. More studies are required addressing limitations due to research design and training method for future clinical use. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Prostate Cancer Disparities in an Incarcerated Community

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-09-01

Based Medicine & Health Outcomes Research 12901 Bruce B Downs Blvd. MDC 02 Tampa, Florida 33612-4799 (Study Design and Interpretation) Task 1...Clinical Research 12901 Bruce B. Downs Blvd. MDC 2 Tampa, Florida 33612-4799 (Statistical Analysis) University of South Florida Center for Evidence

Association between global DNA hypomethylation in leukocytes and risk of breast cancer.

PubMed

Choi, Ji-Yeob; James, Smitha R; Link, Petra A; McCann, Susan E; Hong, Chi-Chen; Davis, Warren; Nesline, Mary K; Ambrosone, Christine B; Karpf, Adam R

2009-11-01

Global DNA hypomethylation may result in chromosomal instability and oncogene activation, and as a surrogate of systemic methylation activity, may be associated with breast cancer risk. Samples and data were obtained from women with incident early-stage breast cancer (I-IIIa) and women who were cancer free, frequency matched on age and race. In preliminary analyses, genomic methylation of leukocyte DNA was determined by measuring 5-methyldeoxycytosine (5-mdC), as well as methylation analysis of the LINE-1-repetitive DNA element. Further analyses used only 5-mdC levels. Logistic regression models were used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for risk of breast cancer in relation to amounts of methylation. In a subset of samples tested (n = 37), 5-mdC level was not correlated with LINE-1 methylation. 5-mdC level in leukocyte DNA was significantly lower in breast cancer cases than healthy controls (P = 0.001), but no significant case-control differences were observed with LINE-1 methylation (P = 0.176). In the entire data set, we noted significant differences in 5-mdC levels in leukocytes between cases (n = 176) and controls (n = 173); P value < 0.001. Compared with women in the highest 5-mdC tertile (T3), women in the second (T2; OR = 1.49, 95% CI = 0.84-2.65) and lowest tertile (T1; OR = 2.86, 95% CI = 1.65-4.94) had higher risk of breast cancer (P for trend < or = 0.001). Among controls only and cases and controls combined, only alcohol intake was found to be inversely associated with methylation levels. These findings suggest that leukocyte DNA hypomethylation is independently associated with development of breast cancer.

Laminin-111 protein therapy reduces muscle pathology and improves viability of a mouse model of merosin-deficient congenital muscular dystrophy.

PubMed

Rooney, Jachinta E; Knapp, Jolie R; Hodges, Bradley L; Wuebbles, Ryan D; Burkin, Dean J

2012-04-01

Merosin-deficient congenital muscular dystrophy type 1A (MDC1A) is a lethal muscle-wasting disease that is caused by mutations in the LAMA2 gene, resulting in the loss of laminin-α2 protein. MDC1A patients exhibit severe muscle weakness from birth, are confined to a wheelchair, require ventilator assistance, and have reduced life expectancy. There are currently no effective treatments or cures for MDC1A. Laminin-α2 is required for the formation of heterotrimeric laminin-211 (ie, α2, β1, and γ1) and laminin-221 (ie, α2, β2, and γ1), which are major constituents of skeletal muscle basal lamina. Laminin-111 (ie, α1, β1, and γ1) is the predominant laminin isoform in embryonic skeletal muscle and supports normal skeletal muscle development in laminin-α2-deficient muscle but is absent from adult skeletal muscle. In this study, we determined whether treatment with Engelbreth-Holm-Swarm-derived mouse laminin-111 protein could rescue MDC1A in the dy(W-/-) mouse model. We demonstrate that laminin-111 protein systemically delivered to the muscles of laminin-α2-deficient mice prevents muscle pathology, improves muscle strength, and dramatically increases life expectancy. Laminin-111 also prevented apoptosis in laminin-α2-deficient mouse muscle and primary human MDC1A myogenic cells, which indicates a conserved mechanism of action and cross-reactivity between species. Our results demonstrate that laminin-111 can serve as an effective protein substitution therapy for the treatment of muscular dystrophy in the dy(W-/-) mouse model and establish the potential for its use in the treatment of MDC1A. Copyright © 2012 American Society for Investigative Pathology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A spatial analysis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) cases in the United States and their proximity to multidisciplinary ALS clinics, 2013

PubMed Central

Horton, D. Kevin; Graham, Shannon; Punjani, Reshma; Wilt, Grete; Kaye, Wendy; Maginnis, Kimberly; Webb, Lauren; Richman, Judy; Bedlack, Richard; Tessaro, Edward; Mehta, Paul

2017-01-01

Background Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal motor neuron disease that typically results in death within 2–5 years of initial symptom onset. Multidisciplinary ALS clinics (MDCs) have been established to provide specialty care to people living with the disease. Objective To estimate the proximity of ALS prevalence cases to the nearest MDC in the US to help evaluate one aspect of access to care. Methods Using 2013 prevalence data from the National ALS Registry, cases were geocoded by city using geographic information system (GIS) software, along with the locations of all MDCs in operation during 2013. Case-to-MDC proximity was calculated and analyzed by sex, race, and age group. Results During 2013, there were 72 MDCs in operation in 30 different states. A total of 15,633 ALS cases were geocoded and were distributed throughout all 50 states. Of these, 62.6% were male, 77.9% were white, and 76.2% were 50–79 years old. For overall case-to-MDC proximity, nearly half (44.9%) of all geocoded cases in the US lived >50 miles from an MDC, including approximately a quarter who lived >100 miles from an MDC. There was a statistically significant difference between distance to MDC by race and age group. Conclusions The high percentage of those living more than 50 miles from the nearest specialized clinic underscores one of the many challenges of ALS. Having better access to care, whether at MDCs or through other modalities, is likely key to increasing survivability and obtaining appropriate end-of-life treatment and support for people with ALS. PMID:29262737

FANC Pathway Promotes UV-Induced Stalled Replication Forks Recovery by Acting Both Upstream and Downstream Polη and Rev1

PubMed Central

Renaud, Emilie; Rosselli, Filippo

2013-01-01

To cope with ultraviolet C (UVC)-stalled replication forks and restart DNA synthesis, cells either undergo DNA translesion synthesis (TLS) by specialised DNA polymerases or tolerate the lesions using homologous recombination (HR)-based mechanisms. To gain insight into how cells manage UVC-induced stalled replication forks, we analysed the molecular crosstalk between the TLS DNA polymerases Polη and Rev1, the double-strand break repair (DSB)-associated protein MDC1 and the FANC pathway. We describe three novel functional interactions that occur in response to UVC-induced DNA lesions. First, Polη and Rev1, whose optimal expression and/or relocalisation depend on the FANC core complex, act upstream of FANCD2 and are required for the proper relocalisation of monoubiquitinylated FANCD2 (Ub-FANCD2) to subnuclear foci. Second, during S-phase, Ub-FANCD2 and MDC1 relocalise to UVC-damaged nuclear areas or foci simultaneously but independently of each other. Third, Ub-FANCD2 and MDC1 are independently required for optimal BRCA1 relocalisation. While RPA32 phosphorylation (p-RPA32) and RPA foci formation were reduced in parallel with increasing levels of H2AX phosphorylation and MDC1 foci in UVC-irradiated FANC pathway-depleted cells, MDC1 depletion was associated with increased UVC-induced Ub-FANCD2 and FANCD2 foci as well as p-RPA32 levels and p-RPA32 foci. On the basis of the previous observations, we propose that the FANC pathway participates in the rescue of UVC-stalled replication forks in association with TLS by maintaining the integrity of ssDNA regions and by preserving genome stability and preventing the formation of DSBs, the resolution of which would require the intervention of MDC1. PMID:23365640

Multidisciplinary collaboration in primary care: through the eyes of patients.

PubMed

Cheong, Lynn H; Armour, Carol L; Bosnic-Anticevich, Sinthia Z

2013-01-01

Managing chronic illness is highly complex and the pathways to access health care for the patient are unpredictable and often unknown. While multidisciplinary care (MDC) arrangements are promoted in the Australian primary health care system, there is a paucity of research on multidisciplinary collaboration from patients' perspectives. This exploratory study is the first to gain an understanding of the experiences, perceptions, attitudes and potential role of people with chronic illness (asthma) on the delivery of MDC in the Australian primary health care setting. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with asthma patients from Sydney, Australia. Qualitative analysis of data indicates that patients are significant players in MDC and their perceptions of their chronic condition, perceived roles of health care professionals, and expectations of health care delivery, influence their participation and attitudes towards multidisciplinary services. Our research shows the challenges presented by patients in the delivery and establishment of multidisciplinary health care teams, and highlights the need to consider patients' perspectives in the development of MDC models in primary care.

Proceedings of the Redesign in Science Education Conference (RISE) (Columbus, OH, October 20-21, 2000).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Beeth, Michael E., Ed.; Kwon, Hyeoksoon, Ed.; Lee, Gyoungho, Ed.

This document contains the papers presented at the Redesign in Science Education (RISE) Conference. Papers include: (1) "A Model Development Concept (MDC) for Education: A Framework for Change" (C. K. Barsky, K. G. Wilson, and B. Daviss); (2) "Teaching Science Everyday" (K. L. Scott); (3) "Science Teacher Licensure…

[Examination of the Difference in Medical Treatment Contents According to Major Diagnostic Category of Hospital Group I and Group II Using the Diagnosis Procedure Combination Survey Data].

PubMed

Nakajima, Hisato; Yano, Kouya; Nagasawa, Kaoko; Kobayashi, Eiji; Yokota, Kuninobu

2015-01-01

A difference in the medical treatment situation between the first group and the second group of the hospital group in the DPC system was clarified using Diagnosis Procedure Combination (DPC) survey data according to Major Diagnostic Category (MDC). Furthermore, the division between the first group and the second group was examined. DPC survey data collected in 2012 was used. According to MDC, significant differences in the patient ratio of hospitalization, the number of planned hospitalizations, the number of emergency hospitalizations, the number of ambulance conveyances, and the number of treatments were considered. Then, by the Mahalanobis-Taguchi method, distributions of the Mahalanobis distance and item choice according to MDC were considered. Many items according to MDC showed significant differences between the first group and the second group. The Mahalanobis distance was increased by MDC 16 disease when divided by the Mahalanobis distance of 1.0 between the first group and the second group. The item, which contributed to the calculation of the Mahalanobis distance by item choice, varied and showed a difference between the first group and the second group. The second group was authorized by the hospital followed by the first group. However, the results showed significant differences in the number of DPC survey data and the Mahalanobis distance of many items.

Void reactivity feedback analysis for U-based and Th-based LWR incineration cycles

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

Lindley, B.A.; Parks, G.T.; Franceschini, F.

2013-07-01

In reduced-moderation LWRs, an external supply of transuranic (TRU) can be incinerated by mixing it with a fertile isotope ({sup 238}U or {sup 232}Th) and recycling all the actinides after each cycle. Performance is limited by coolant reactivity feedback - the moderator density coefficient (MDC) must be kept negative. The MDC is worse when more TRU is loaded, but TRU feed is also needed to maintain criticality. To assess the performance of this fuel cycle in different neutron spectra, three LWRs are considered: 'reference' PWRs and reduced-moderation PWRs and BWRs. The MDC of the equilibrium cycle is analysed by reactivitymore » decomposition with perturbed coolant density by isotope and neutron energy. The results show that using {sup 232}Th as a fertile isotope yields superior performance to {sup 238}U. This is due essentially to the high resonance η of U bred from Th (U3), which increases the fissility of the U3-TRU isotope vector in the Th-fueled system relative to the U-fueled system, and also improves the MDC in a sufficiently hard spectrum. Spatial separation of TRU and U3 in the Th-fueled system renders further improvement by hardening the neutron spectrum in the TRU and softening it in the U3. This improves the TRU η and increases the negative MDC contribution from reduced thermal fission in U3. (authors)« less

Using Chinese Version of MYMOP in Chinese Medicine Evaluation: Validity, Responsiveness and Minimally Important Change

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Background Measure Yourself Medical Outcome Profile (MYMOP) is a patient generated outcome instrument applicable in the evaluation of both allopathic and complementary medicine treatment. This study aims to adapt MYMOP into Chinese, and to assess its validity, responsiveness and minimally important change values in a sample of patients using Chinese medicine (CM) services. Methods A Chinese version of MYMOP (CMYMOP) is developed by forward-backward-forward translation strategy, expert panel assessment and pilot testing amongst patients. 272 patients aged 18 or above with subjective symptoms in the past 2 weeks were recruited at a CM clinic, and were invited to complete a set of questionnaire containing CMYMOP and SF-36. Follow ups were performed at 2nd and 4th week after consultation, using the same set of questionnaire plus a global rating of change question. Criterion validity of CMYMOP was assessed by its correlation with SF-36 at baseline, and responsiveness was evaluated by calculating the Cohen effect size (ES) of change at two follow ups. Minimally important difference (MID) values were estimated via anchor based method, while minimally detectable difference (MDC) figures were calculated by distribution based method. Results Criterion validity of CMYMOP was demonstrated by negative correlation between CMYMOP Profile scores and all SF-36 domain and summary scores at baseline. For responsiveness between baseline and 4th week follow up, ES of CMYMOP Symptom 1, Activity and Profile reached the moderate change threshold (ES>0.5), while Symptom 2 and Wellbeing reached the weak change threshold (ES>0.2). None of the SF-36 scores reached the moderate change threshold, implying CMYMOP's stronger responsiveness in CM setting. At 2nd week follow up, MID values for Symptom 1, Symptom 2, Wellbeing and Profile items were 0.894, 0.580, 0.263 and 0.516 respectively. For Activity item, MDC figure of 0.808 was adopted to estimate MID. Conclusions The findings support the validity and responsiveness of CMYMOP for capturing patient centred clinical changes within 2 weeks in a CM clinical setting. Further researches are warranted (1) to estimate Activity item MID, (2) to assess the test-retest reliability of CMYMOP, and (3) to perform further MID evaluation using multiple, item specific anchor questions. PMID:20920284

A Leader among Leaders

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stewart, Pearl

2011-01-01

When President Obama delivered the commencement address at Miami Dade College (MDC) in April, it was yet another coup for the high-profile institution--but not a first. Presidents George W. Bush and Bill Clinton also were graduation speakers, as the community college continues to be a magnet for national and international dignitaries. MDC has…

IAU Meteor Data Center-the shower database: A status report

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jopek, Tadeusz Jan; Kaňuchová, Zuzana

2017-09-01

Currently, the meteor shower part of Meteor Data Center database includes: 112 established showers, 563 in the working list, among them 36 have the pro tempore status. The list of shower complexes contains 25 groups, 3 have established status and 1 has the pro tempore status. In the past three years, new meteor showers submitted to the MDC database were detected amongst the meteors observed by CAMS stations (Cameras for Allsky Meteor Surveillance), those included in the EDMOND (European viDeo MeteOr Network Database), those collected by the Japanese SonotaCo Network, recorded in the IMO (International Meteor Organization) database, observed by the Croatian Meteor Network and on the Southern Hemisphere by the SAAMER radar. At the XXIX General Assembly of the IAU in Honolulu, Hawaii in 2015, the names of 18 showers were officially accepted and moved to the list of established ones. Also, one shower already officially named (3/SIA the Southern iota Aquariids) was moved back to the working list of meteor showers. At the XXIX GA IAU the basic shower nomenclature rule was modified, the new formulation predicates ;The general rule is that a meteor shower (and a meteoroid stream) should be named after the constellation that contains the nearest star to the radiant point, using the possessive Latin form;. Over the last three years the MDC database was supplemented with the earlier published original data on meteor showers, which permitted verification of the correctness of the MDC data and extension of bibliographic information. Slowly but surely new database software options are implemented, and software bugs are corrected.

Quantitative, non-invasive imaging of radiation-induced DNA double strand breaks in vivo

PubMed Central

Li, Wenrong; Li, Fang; Huang, Qian; Shen, Jingping; Wolf, Frank; He, Yujun; Liu, Xinjian; Hu, Y. Angela; Bedford, Joel. S.; Li, Chuan-Yuan

2011-01-01

DNA double strand breaks is a major form of DNA damage and a key mechanism through which radiotherapy and some chemotherapeutic agents kill cancer cells. Despite its importance, measuring DNA double strand breaks is still a tedious task that is normally carried out by gel electrophoresis or immunofluorescence staining. Here we report a novel approach to image and quantify DNA double strand breaks in live mammalian cells through bi-fragment luciferase reconstitution. N- and C- terminal fragments of firefly luciferase gene were fused with H2AX and MDC1 genes, respectively. Our strategy was based on the established fact that at the sites of DNA double strand breaks, H2AX protein is phosphoryated and physically associates with the MDC1 protein, thus bringing together N- and C- luciferase fragments and reconstituting luciferase activity. Our strategy allowed serial, non-invasive quantification of DNA double strand breaks in cells irradiated with x-rays and 56Fe ions. Furthermore, it allowed for the evaluation of DNA double strand breaks (DSBs) non-invasively in vivo in irradiated tumors over two weeks. Surprisingly, we detected a second wave of DSB induction in irradiated tumor cells days after radiation exposure in addition to the initial rapid induction of DSBs. We conclude that our new split-luciferase based method for imaging γ-H2AX-MDC1 interaction is a powerful new tool to study DNA double strand break repair kinetics in vivo with considerable advantage for experiments requiring observations over an extended period of time. PMID:21527553

A 170kDa multi-domain cystatin of Fasciola gigantica is active in the male reproductive system.

PubMed

Geadkaew, Amornrat; Kosa, Nanthawat; Siricoon, Sinee; Grams, Suksiri Vichasri; Grams, Rudi

2014-09-01

Cystatins are functional as intra- and extracellular inhibitors of cysteine proteases and are expressed as single or multi-domain proteins. We have previously described two single domain type 1 cystatins in the trematode Fasciola gigantica that are released into the parasite's intestinal tract and exhibit inhibitory activity against endogenous and host cathepsin L and B proteases. In contrast, the here presented 170kDa multi-domain cystatin (FgMDC) comprises signal peptide and 12 tandem repeated cystatin-like domains with similarity to type 2 single domain cystatins. The domains show high sequence divergence with identity values often <20% and at only 26.8% between the highest matching domains 6 and 10. Several domains contain degenerated QVVAG core motifs and/or lack other important residues of active type 2 cystatins. Domain-specific antisera detected multiple forms of FgMDC ranging from <10 to >120kDa molecular mass in immunoblots of parasite crude extracts and ES product with different banding patterns for each antiserum demonstrating complex processing of the proprotein. The four domains with the highest conserved QVVAG motifs were expressed in Escherichia coli and the refolded recombinant proteins blocked cysteine protease activity in the parasite's ES product. Strikingly, immunohistochemical analysis using seven domain-specific antisera localized FgMDC in testis lobes and sperm. It is speculated that the processed cystatin-like domains have function analogous to the mammalian group of male reproductive tissue-specific type 2 cystatins and are functional in spermiogenesis and fertilization. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Rapid and simultaneous determination of Strontium-89 and Strontium-90 in seawater.

PubMed

Tayeb, Michelle; Dai, Xiongxin; Sdraulig, Sandra

2016-03-01

A rapid method has been developed for the direct determination of radiostrontium ((89)Sr and (90)Sr) released in seawater in the early phase of an accident. The method employs a fast and effective pre-concentration of radiostrontium by Sr-Ca co-precipitation followed by separation of radiostrontium using extraction chromatography technique. Radiostrontium is effectively separated in the presence of excessive dominant salts of seawater. Čerenkov and liquid scintillation assay (LSA) techniques are used to determine (89)Sr and (90)Sr. Sample preparation time is approximately 4 h for a set of 10 samples. The method was validated using spiked seawater samples at various activity ratios of (89)Sr:(90)Sr ranging from 1:10 to 9:1. The mean chemical recovery of Sr was 85 ± 3%. (90)Sr showed variable relative bias which enhanced with increasing ratio of (89)Sr:(90)Sr and was in the range ± 21%. The highest biases of (90)Sr determination were due to lower activity concentrations of (90)Sr and are regarded as acceptable in emergency situations with elevated levels of radiostrontium in the sample. The minimum detectable concentration (MDC) of (90)Sr and (89)Sr varied at different (89)Sr:(90)Sr ratios. For 0.1 L seawater and 15 min counting time on a low background Hidex liquid scintillation counter (LSC), the MDC of (90)Sr was in the range of 1.7-3.5 Bq L(-1) and MDC of (89)Sr was in the range 0.5-2.4 Bq L(-1). Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The reliability and validity of a designed setup for the assessment of static back extensor force and endurance in older women with and without hyperkyphosis.

PubMed

Roghani, Taybeh; Khalkhali Zavieh, Minoo; Rahimi, Abbas; Talebian, Saeed; Manshadi, Farideh Dehghan; Akbarzadeh Baghban, Alireza; King, Nicole; Katzman, Wendy

2018-01-25

The purpose of this study was to investigate the intra-rater reliability and validity of a designed load cell setup for the measurement of back extensor muscle force and endurance. The study sample included 19 older women with hyperkyphosis, mean age 67.0 ± 5.0 years, and 14 older women without hyperkyphosis, mean age 63.0 ± 6.0 years. Maximum back extensor force and endurance were measured in a sitting position with a designed load cell setup. Tests were performed by the same examiner on two separate days within a 72-hour interval. The intra-rater reliability of the measurements was analyzed using intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), standard errors of measurement (SEM), and minimal detectable change (MDC). The validity of the setup was determined using Pearson correlation analysis and independent t-test. Using our designed load cell, the values of ICC indicated very high reliability of force measurement (hyperkyphosis group: 0.96, normal group: 0.97) and high reliability of endurance measurement (hyperkyphosis group: 0.82, normal group: 0.89). For all tests, the values of SEM and MDC were low in both groups. A significant correlation between two documented forces (load cell force and target force) and significant differences in the muscle force and endurance among the two groups were found. The measurements of static back muscle force and endurance are reliable and valid with our designed setup in older women with and without hyperkyphosis.

THE RELIABILITY AND CONCURRENT VALIDITY OF MEASUREMENTS USED TO QUANTIFY LUMBAR SPINE MOBILITY: AN ANALYSIS OF AN IPHONE® APPLICATION AND GRAVITY BASED INCLINOMETRY

PubMed Central

Pizzini, Matias; Robinson, Ashley; Yanez, Dania; Hanney, William J.

2013-01-01

Purpose/Aim: This purpose of this study was to investigate the reliability, minimal detectable change (MDC), and concurrent validity of active spinal mobility measurements using a gravity‐based bubble inclinometer and iPhone® application. Materials/Methods: Two investigators each used a bubble inclinometer and an iPhone® with inclinometer application to measure total thoracolumbo‐pelvic flexion, isolated lumbar flexion, total thoracolumbo‐pelvic extension, and thoracolumbar lateral flexion in 30 asymptomatic participants using a blinded repeated measures design. Results: The procedures used in this investigation for measuring spinal mobility yielded good intrarater and interrater reliability with Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC) for bubble inclinometry ≥ 0.81 and the iPhone® ≥ 0.80. The MDC90 for the interrater analysis ranged from 4° to 9°. The concurrent validity between bubble inclinometry and the iPhone® application was good with ICC values of ≥ 0.86. The 95% level of agreement indicates that although these measuring instruments are equivalent individual differences of up to 18° may exist when using these devices interchangeably. Conclusions: The bubble inclinometer and iPhone® possess good intrarater and interrater reliability as well as concurrent validity when strict measurement procedures are adhered to. This study provides preliminary evidence to suggest that smart phone applications may offer clinical utility comparable to inclinometry for quantifying spinal mobility. Clinicians should be aware of the potential disagreement when using these devices interchangeably. Level of Evidence: 2b (Observational study of reliability) PMID:23593551

The reliability and concurrent validity of measurements used to quantify lumbar spine mobility: an analysis of an iphone® application and gravity based inclinometry.

PubMed

Kolber, Morey J; Pizzini, Matias; Robinson, Ashley; Yanez, Dania; Hanney, William J

2013-04-01

PURPOSEAIM: This purpose of this study was to investigate the reliability, minimal detectable change (MDC), and concurrent validity of active spinal mobility measurements using a gravity-based bubble inclinometer and iPhone® application. MATERIALSMETHODS: Two investigators each used a bubble inclinometer and an iPhone® with inclinometer application to measure total thoracolumbo-pelvic flexion, isolated lumbar flexion, total thoracolumbo-pelvic extension, and thoracolumbar lateral flexion in 30 asymptomatic participants using a blinded repeated measures design. The procedures used in this investigation for measuring spinal mobility yielded good intrarater and interrater reliability with Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC) for bubble inclinometry ≥ 0.81 and the iPhone® ≥ 0.80. The MDC90 for the interrater analysis ranged from 4° to 9°. The concurrent validity between bubble inclinometry and the iPhone® application was good with ICC values of ≥ 0.86. The 95% level of agreement indicates that although these measuring instruments are equivalent individual differences of up to 18° may exist when using these devices interchangeably. The bubble inclinometer and iPhone® possess good intrarater and interrater reliability as well as concurrent validity when strict measurement procedures are adhered to. This study provides preliminary evidence to suggest that smart phone applications may offer clinical utility comparable to inclinometry for quantifying spinal mobility. Clinicians should be aware of the potential disagreement when using these devices interchangeably. 2b (Observational study of reliability).

Between-Day Reliability of Pre-Participation Screening Components in Pre-Professional Ballet and Contemporary Dancers.

PubMed

Kenny, Sarah J; Palacios-Derflingher, Luz; Owoeye, Oluwatoyosi B A; Whittaker, Jackie L; Emery, Carolyn A

2018-03-15

Critical appraisal of research investigating risk factors for musculoskeletal injury in dancers suggests high quality reliability studies are lacking. The purpose of this study was to determine between-day reliability of pre-participation screening (PPS) components in pre-professional ballet and contemporary dancers. Thirty-eight dancers (35 female, 3 male; median age; 18 years; range: 11 to 30 years) participated. Screening components (Athletic Coping Skills Inventory-28, body mass index, percent total body fat, total bone mineral density, Foot Posture Index-6, hip and ankle range of motion, three lumbopelvic control tasks, unipedal dynamic balance, and the Y-Balance Test) were conducted one week apart. Intra-class correlation coefficients (ICCs: 95% confidence intervals), standard error of measurement, minimal detectable change (MDC), Bland-Altman methods of agreement [95% limits of agreement (LOA)], Cohen's kappa coefficients, standard error, and percent agreements were calculated. Depending on the screening component, ICC estimates ranged from 0.51 to 0.98, kappa coefficients varied between -0.09 and 0.47, and percent agreement spanned 71% to 95%. Wide 95% LOA were demonstrated by Foot Posture Index-6 (right: -6.06, 7.31), passive hip external rotation (right: -9.89, 16.54), and passive supine turnout (left: -15.36, 17.58). The PPS components examined demonstrated moderate to excellent relative reliability with mean between-day differences less than MDC, or sufficient percent agreement, across all assessments. However, due to wide 95% limits of agreement, the Foot Posture Index-6 and passive hip range of motion are not recommended for screening injury risk in pre-professional dancers.

Stress Analysis of Pallet Lever Shaft

DTIC Science & Technology

1976-03-01

ductile, plastic failure. 34 ^Ki’ ■^ ’- l^f. REFERENCES 1. L. Farace , "Runaway Escapement Redesign M125A1 Modular Booster", Tech... Farace 1 Attn: MDC 1 Attn: MDC-A, Mr. F. Shinaly 1 Attn: MDM 1 Attn: MDS 1 Attn: MDS-S 1 Attn: FI 1 Attn: MT Frankford Arsenal (Cont) 1

Competitive migration behaviors of multiple ions and their impacts on ion-exchange resin packed microbial desalination cell.

PubMed

Zuo, Kuichang; Yuan, Lulu; Wei, Jincheng; Liang, Peng; Huang, Xia

2013-10-01

Mixed ion-exchange resins packed microbial desalination cell (R-MDC) could stabilize the internal resistance, however, the impacts of multiple ions on R-MDC performance was unclear. This study investigated the desalination performance, multiple ions migration behaviors and their impacts on R-MDCs fed with salt solution containing multiple anions and cations. Results showed that R-MDC removed multiple anions better than multiple cations with desalination efficiency of 99% (effluent conductivity <0.05 ms/cm) at hydraulic retention time of 50 h. Competitive migration order was SO4(2-)>NO3(-)>Cl(-) for anions and Ca(2+)≈Mg(2+)>NH4(+)>Na(+) for cations, jointly affected by both their molar conductivity and exchange selectivity on resins. After long-term operation, the existence of higher concentration Ca(2+) and Mg(2+) caused the electric conductivity of mixed resins decrease and scaling on the surface of cation-exchange membrane adjoined with cathode chamber, suggesting that R-MDC would be more suitable for desalination of water with lower hardness. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Potent pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic molecules, osteopontin and galectin-3, are not major disease modulators of laminin α2 chain-deficient muscular dystrophy

PubMed Central

Gawlik, Kinga I.; Holmberg, Johan; Svensson, Martina; Einerborg, Mikaela; Oliveira, Bernardo M. S.; Deierborg, Tomas; Durbeej, Madeleine

2017-01-01

A large number of human diseases are caused by chronic tissue injury with fibrosis potentially leading to organ failure. There is a need for more effective anti-fibrotic therapies. Congenital muscular dystrophy type 1A (MDC1A) is a devastating form of muscular dystrophy caused by laminin α2 chain-deficiency. It is characterized with early inflammation and build-up of fibrotic lesions, both in patients and MDC1A mouse models (e.g. dy3K/dy3K). Despite the enormous impact of inflammation on tissue remodelling in disease, the inflammatory response in MDC1A has been poorly described. Consequently, a comprehensive understanding of secondary mechanisms (impaired regeneration, enhanced fibrosis) leading to deterioration of muscle phenotype in MDC1A is missing. We have monitored inflammatory processes in dy3K/dy3K muscle and created mice deficient in laminin α2 chain and osteopontin or galectin-3, two pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic molecules drastically increased in dystrophic muscle. Surprisingly, deletion of osteopontin worsened the phenotype of dy3K/dy3K mice and loss of galectin-3 did not reduce muscle pathology. Our results indicate that osteopontin could even be a beneficial immunomodulator in MDC1A. This knowledge is essential for the design of future therapeutic interventions for muscular dystrophies that aim at targeting inflammation, especially that osteopontin inhibition has been suggested for Duchenne muscular dystrophy therapy. PMID:28281577

Immune physiology in tissue regeneration and aging, tumor growth, and regenerative medicine.

PubMed

Bukovsky, Antonin; Caudle, Michael R; Carson, Ray J; Gaytán, Francisco; Huleihel, Mahmoud; Kruse, Andrea; Schatten, Heide; Telleria, Carlos M

2009-02-13

The immune system plays an important role in immunity (immune surveillance), but also in the regulation of tissue homeostasis (immune physiology). Lessons from the female reproductive tract indicate that immune system related cells, such as intraepithelial T cells and monocyte-derived cells (MDC) in stratified epithelium, interact amongst themselves and degenerate whereas epithelial cells proliferate and differentiate. In adult ovaries, MDC and T cells are present during oocyte renewal from ovarian stem cells. Activated MDC are also associated with follicular development and atresia, and corpus luteum differentiation. Corpus luteum demise resembles rejection of a graft since it is attended by a massive influx of MDC and T cells resulting in parenchymal and vascular regression. Vascular pericytes play important roles in immune physiology, and their activities (including secretion of the Thy-1 differentiation protein) can be regulated by vascular autonomic innervation. In tumors, MDC regulate proliferation of neoplastic cells and angiogenesis. Tumor infiltrating T cells die among malignant cells. Alterations of immune physiology can result in pathology, such as autoimmune, metabolic, and degenerative diseases, but also in infertility and intrauterine growth retardation, fetal morbidity and mortality. Animal experiments indicate that modification of tissue differentiation (retardation or acceleration) during immune adaptation can cause malfunction (persistent immaturity or premature aging) of such tissue during adulthood. Thus successful stem cell therapy will depend on immune physiology in targeted tissues. From this point of view, regenerative medicine is more likely to be successful in acute rather than chronic tissue disorders.

Immune physiology in tissue regeneration and aging, tumor growth, and regenerative medicine

PubMed Central

Bukovsky, Antonin; Caudle, Michael R.; Carson, Ray J.; Gaytán, Francisco; Huleihel, Mahmoud; Kruse, Andrea; Schatten, Heide; Telleria, Carlos M.

2009-01-01

The immune system plays an important role in immunity (immune surveillance), but also in the regulation of tissue homeostasis (immune physiology). Lessons from the female reproductive tract indicate that immune system related cells, such as intraepithelial T cells and monocyte-derived cells (MDC) in stratified epithelium, interact amongst themselves and degenerate whereas epithelial cells proliferate and differentiate. In adult ovaries, MDC and T cells are present during oocyte renewal from ovarian stem cells. Activated MDC are also associated with follicular development and atresia, and corpus luteum differentiation. Corpus luteum demise resembles rejection of a graft since it is attended by a massive influx of MDC and T cells resulting in parenchymal and vascular regression. Vascular pericytes play important roles in immune physiology, and their activities (including secretion of the Thy-1 differentiation protein) can be regulated by vascular autonomic innervation. In tumors, MDC regulate proliferation of neoplastic cells and angiogenesis. Tumor infiltrating T cells die among malignant cells. Alterations of immune physiology can result in pathology, such as autoimmune, metabolic, and degenerative diseases, but also in infertility and intrauterine growth retardation, fetal morbidity and mortality. Animal experiments indicate that modification of tissue differentiation (retardation or acceleration) during immune adaptation can cause malfunction (persistent immaturity or premature aging) of such tissue during adulthood. Thus successful stem cell therapy will depend on immune physiology in targeted tissues. From this point of view, regenerative medicine is more likely to be successful in acute rather than chronic tissue disorders. PMID:20195382

(+)-Nootkatone inhibits tumor necrosis factor α/interferon γ-induced production of chemokines in HaCaT cells

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

Choi, Hyeon-Jae; Lee, Jin-Hwee; Jung, Yi-Sook, E-mail: yisjung@ajou.ac.kr

Highlights: • (+)-Nootkatone inhibits TNF-α/IFN-γ-induced TARC and MDC expression in HaCaT cells. • PKCζ, p38 MAPK, or NF-κB mediate TNF-α/IFN-γ-induced TARC and MDC expression. • (+)-Nootkatone inhibits TNF-α/IFN-γ-induced activation of PKCζ, p38 MAPK, or NF-κB. • (+)-Nootkatone suppresses chemokine expression by inhibiting of PKCζ and p38 pathways. - Abstract: Chemokines are important mediators of cell migration, and thymus and activation-regulated chemokine (TARC/CCL17) and macrophage-derived chemokine (MDC/CCL22) are well-known typical inflammatory chemokines involved in atopic dermatitis (AD). (+)-Nootkatone is the major component of Cyperus rotundus. (+)-Nootkatone has antiallergic, anti-inflammatory, and antiplatelet activities. The purpose of this study was to investigate themore » effect of (+)-nootkatone on tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α)/interferon γ (IFN-γ)-induced expression of Th2 chemokines in HaCaT cells. We found that (+)-nootkatone inhibited the TNF-α/IFN-γ-induced expression of TARC/CCL17 and MDC/CCL22 mRNA in HaCaT cells. It also significantly inhibited TNF-α/IFN-γ-induced activation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and protein kinase Cζ (PKCζ). Furthermore, we showed that PKCζ and p38 MAPK contributed to the inhibition of TNF-α/IFN-γ-induced TARC/CCL17 and MDC/CCL22 expression by blocking IκBα degradation in HaCaT cells. Taken together, these results suggest that (+)-nootkatone may suppress TNF-α/IFN-γ-induced TARC/CCL17 and MDC/CCL22 expression in HaCaT cells by inhibiting of PKCζ and p38 MAPK signaling pathways that lead to activation of NF-κB. We propose that (+)-nootkatone may be a useful therapeutic candidate for inflammatory skin diseases such as AD.« less

Association between global DNA hypomethylation in leukocytes and risk of breast cancer

PubMed Central

Choi, Ji-Yeob; James, Smitha R.; Link, Petra A.; McCann, Susan E.; Hong, Chi-Chen; Davis, Warren; Nesline, Mary K.; Ambrosone, Christine B.; Karpf, Adam R.

2009-01-01

Background: Global DNA hypomethylation may result in chromosomal instability and oncogene activation, and as a surrogate of systemic methylation activity, may be associated with breast cancer risk. Methods: Samples and data were obtained from women with incident early-stage breast cancer (I–IIIa) and women who were cancer free, frequency matched on age and race. In preliminary analyses, genomic methylation of leukocyte DNA was determined by measuring 5-methyldeoxycytosine (5-mdC), as well as methylation analysis of the LINE-1-repetitive DNA element. Further analyses used only 5-mdC levels. Logistic regression models were used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for risk of breast cancer in relation to amounts of methylation. Results: In a subset of samples tested (n = 37), 5-mdC level was not correlated with LINE-1 methylation. 5-mdC level in leukocyte DNA was significantly lower in breast cancer cases than healthy controls (P = 0.001), but no significant case–control differences were observed with LINE-1 methylation (P = 0.176). In the entire data set, we noted significant differences in 5-mdC levels in leukocytes between cases (n = 176) and controls (n = 173); P value < 0.001. Compared with women in the highest 5-mdC tertile (T3), women in the second (T2; OR = 1.49, 95% CI = 0.84–2.65) and lowest tertile (T1; OR = 2.86, 95% CI = 1.65–4.94) had higher risk of breast cancer (P for trend ≤0.001). Among controls only and cases and controls combined, only alcohol intake was found to be inversely associated with methylation levels. Conclusion: These findings suggest that leukocyte DNA hypomethylation is independently associated with development of breast cancer. PMID:19584139

Comparison of WTC Dust Size on Macrophage Inflammatory Cytokine Release In vivo and In vitro

PubMed Central

Weiden, Michael D.; Naveed, Bushra; Kwon, Sophia; Segal, Leopoldo N.; Cho, Soo Jung; Tsukiji, Jun; Kulkarni, Rohan; Comfort, Ashley L.; Kasturiarachchi, Kusali J.; Prophete, Colette; Cohen, Mitchell D.; Chen, Lung-Chi; Rom, William N.; Prezant, David J.; Nolan, Anna

2012-01-01

Background The WTC collapse exposed over 300,000 people to high concentrations of WTC-PM; particulates up to ∼50 mm were recovered from rescue workers’ lungs. Elevated MDC and GM-CSF independently predicted subsequent lung injury in WTC-PM-exposed workers. Our hypotheses are that components of WTC dust strongly induce GM-CSF and MDC in AM; and that these two risk factors are in separate inflammatory pathways. Methodology/Principal Findings Normal adherent AM from 15 subjects without WTC-exposure were incubated in media alone, LPS 40 ng/mL, or suspensions of WTC-PM10–53 or WTC-PM2.5 at concentrations of 10, 50 or 100 µg/mL for 24 hours; supernatants assayed for 39 chemokines/cytokines. In addition, sera from WTC-exposed subjects who developed lung injury were assayed for the same cytokines. In the in vitro studies, cytokines formed two clusters with GM-CSF and MDC as a result of PM10–53 and PM2.5. GM-CSF clustered with IL-6 and IL-12(p70) at baseline, after exposure to WTC-PM10–53 and in sera of WTC dust-exposed subjects (n = 70) with WTC lung injury. Similarly, MDC clustered with GRO and MCP-1. WTC-PM10–53 consistently induced more cytokine release than WTC-PM2.5 at 100 µg/mL. Individual baseline expression correlated with WTC-PM-induced GM-CSF and MDC. Conclusions WTC-PM10–53 induced a stronger inflammatory response by human AM than WTC-PM2.5. This large particle exposure may have contributed to the high incidence of lung injury in those exposed to particles at the WTC site. GM-CSF and MDC consistently cluster separately, suggesting a role for differential cytokine release in WTC-PM injury. Subject-specific response to WTC-PM may underlie individual susceptibility to lung injury after irritant dust exposure. PMID:22815721

Meteor showers of the southern hemisphere

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Molau, Sirko; Kerr, Steve

2014-04-01

We present the results of an exhaustive meteor shower search in the southern hemisphere. The underlying data set is a subset of the IMO Video Meteor Database comprising 50,000 single station meteors obtained by three Australian cameras between 2001 and 2012. The detection technique was similar to previous single station analysis. In the data set we find 4 major and 6 minor northern hemisphere meteor showers, and 12 segments of the Antihelion source (including the Northern and Southern Taurids and six streams from the MDC working list). We present details for 14 southern hemisphere showers plus the Centaurid and Puppid-Velid complex, with the η Aquariids and the Southern δ Aquariids being the strongest southern showers. Two of the showers (θ^2 Sagittariids and τ Cetids) were previously unknown and have received preliminary designations by the MDC. Overall we find that the fraction of southern meteor showers south of -30deg declination (roughly 25%) is clearly smaller than the fraction of northern meteor showers north of +30deg declination (more than 50%) obtained in our previous analysis.

Reproducibility: Reliability and agreement of short version of Western Ontario Rotator Cuff Index (Short-WORC) in patients with rotator cuff disorders.

PubMed

Dewan, Neha; MacDermid, Joy C; MacIntyre, Norma; Grewal, Ruby

2016-01-01

Recently, a shorter version of Western Ontario Rotator Cuff Index (Short-WORC) was proposed as a subset of 7 items from the original 21-item WORC. However, the reproducibility of the Short-WORC has not been established. To determine reproducibility (reliability and agreement) of the Short-WORC among patients with rotator cuff disorders (RCDs). Patients (n = 153) diagnosed with RCD completed the WORC at baseline and at 3 months post-operatively (n = 146). The Short-WORC was extracted from the full version of WORC. From this retrospective cohort, 43 patients were retested within 5 weeks, if they remained stable. Cronbach's alpha (α) and intra class correlation coefficients (ICC2,1) were used to assess internal consistency and test-retest reliability respectively. Standard error measurement (SEM), minimal detectable change (MDC90) and Bland Altman (BA) plots were used to assess agreement. No floor and ceiling effects were reported for either the Short-WORC or WORC. Cronbach's α were 0.84 and 0.90 at baseline and 0.89 and 0.95 at 3 month of follow up for Short-WORC and WORC respectively. The ICC2,1 were 0.89 and 0.91 for the Short-WORC and WORC respectively. The agreement parameters for the Short-WORC were: SEMagreement = 8.8, MDC90individual = 20.3, MDC90group = 5.1. We found substantial agreement between the two versions of WORC on BA plots with minimal (mean difference (d) <1) systematic differences between them. The limits of agreement (LOA) between two versions of WORC were similar across sessions and fell within range of -11.7 to 13.2 points at test and -14.7 to 14.7 points at retest. Short-WORC and WORC demonstrates strong reproducibility and can be used for group and individual comparison of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among patients with RCD. Wider LOA may be expected when using the Short-WORC for individual patient assessment. Reproducibility data is essential, but should be supplemented by validation of actual Short-WORC with samples representing the spectrum of RCD. N/A. Copyright © 2016 Hanley & Belfus. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

LDC and MDC Theory of Action and the Landscape of Implementation. Brief One

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Duffy, Mark; Park, Elizabeth

2012-01-01

To support the implementation of the Common Core State Standards (CCSS), the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation invested in the development and dissemination of two tools aimed at operationalizing classroom instruction based on the standards: (1) the Literacy Design Collaborative (LDC)'s Framework; and (2) the Math Design Collaborative (MDC)'s…

LDC and MDC Strategies Help Schools Prepare Students for Careers, Advanced Training and Further Study. Best Practices Newsletter

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Southern Regional Education Board (SREB), 2014

2014-01-01

The Literacy Design Collaborative (LDC) and the Mathematics Design Collaborative (MDC) are strategies designed to improve how teachers teach and students learn. The designs encourage teacher collaboration and creativity and offer flexible frameworks for building lessons in all disciplines. Their purpose is to engage students to read challenging…

Angelicae Dahuricae Radix Inhibits Dust Mite Extract-Induced Atopic Dermatitis-Like Skin Lesions in NC/Nga Mice.

PubMed

Lee, Hoyoung; Lee, Jun Kyoung; Ha, Hyekyung; Lee, Mee-Young; Seo, Chang-Seob; Shin, Hyeun Kyoo

2012-01-01

We examined whether Angelicae Dahuricae Radix (AR) suppresses the development of atopic dermatitis (AD)-like skin lesions induced by Dermatophagoides farinae in NC/Nga mice. To investigate the effect of AR, we measured the AD severity score, measured plasma levels of IgE and histamine, and performed histological analysis in NC/Nga mice. We also confirmed the anti-inflammatory effects of AR by measuring TARC/CCL17 production from LPS-treated RAW 264.7 cells and mRNA levels of TARC and MDC/CCL22 in TNF-α/IFN-γ-treated HaCaT cells. 10 mg/day of AR extract was applied for 4 weeks to NC/Nga mice. Both the AR extract and 0.1% tacrolimus suppressed the development of AD-like skin lesions and reduced dermatitis scores of the back and ear skin. AR extracts caused an inhibition of histological changes induced by repeated application of D. farinae and a reduction of IgE and histamine levels in plasma (P < 0.05). Furthermore, NO production in LPS-treated RAW 264.7 cells was diminished in a dose-dependent manner, and hTARC production and TARC and MDC mRNA levels in TNF-α/IFN-γ-treated HaCaT cells were diminished by AR. The inhibitory effect of AR on NO, TARC and MDC production may be associated with the suppression of AD-like skin lesions in D. farinae-induced NC/Nga mice.

Intra-rater and inter-rater reliability of ultrasonographic measurements of acromion-greater tuberosity distance in patients with post-stroke hemiplegia.

PubMed

Kumar, Praveen; Cruziah, Reynold; Bradley, Michael; Gray, Selena; Swinkels, Annette

2016-06-01

Glenohumeral subluxation (GHS) is reported in up to 81% of patients with stroke. Ultrasonographic measurements of GHS by measuring the acromion-greater tuberosity (AGT) have been found to be reliable for experienced raters. The primary aim was to assess the intra-rater reliability of measurements of AGT distance in people with stroke following a short course of rater training. A secondary aim was to compare the inter-rater reliability of these measurements between novice and experienced raters. Patients with stroke (n = 16; 5 men, 11 women; 74 ± 10 years) with 1-sided weakness who gave informed consent were recruited. Ultrasonographic measurements were recorded at the bedside by two physiotherapists with patients seated upright in a hospital chair. Reliability was assessed by intra-class correlation coefficients (ICCs) and the standard error of measurements (SEM). Minimum detectable change (MDC90) scores were used to estimate the magnitude of change that is likely to exceed measurement error. Mean ± SD AGT distances on the affected and unaffected sides for rater 1 were 2.2 ± 0.7 and 1.7 ± 0.4 cm, respectively. Corresponding values for rater 2 were 2.5 ± 0.6 and 2.0 ± 0.4 cm. Intra-class correlation coefficient values for the affected and unaffected shoulders for rater 1 were 0.96 and 0.91, respectively. Corresponding values for rater 2 were 0.95 and 0.90.SEM and MDC90 for both affected and unaffected shoulders were ≤ 0.2 cm. Inter-rater reliability coefficients were 0.86 (affected) and 0.76 (unaffected) shoulders. Ultrasonographic measurement of AGT distance demonstrates excellent intra-rater reliability for a novice rater. Inter-rater reliability of ultrasonographic measurement of AGT also demonstrates good reliability between novice and experienced raters.

Reliability of the method of levels for determining cutaneous temperature sensitivity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jakovljević, Miroljub; Mekjavić, Igor B.

2012-09-01

Determination of the thermal thresholds is used clinically for evaluation of peripheral nervous system function. The aim of this study was to evaluate reliability of the method of levels performed with a new, low cost device for determining cutaneous temperature sensitivity. Nineteen male subjects were included in the study. Thermal thresholds were tested on the right side at the volar surface of mid-forearm, lateral surface of mid-upper arm and front area of mid-thigh. Thermal testing was carried out by the method of levels with an initial temperature step of 2°C. Variability of thermal thresholds was expressed by means of the ratio between the second and the first testing, coefficient of variation (CV), coefficient of repeatability (CR), intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), mean difference between sessions (S1-S2diff), standard error of measurement (SEM) and minimally detectable change (MDC). There were no statistically significant changes between sessions for warm or cold thresholds, or between warm and cold thresholds. Within-subject CVs were acceptable. The CR estimates for warm thresholds ranged from 0.74°C to 1.06°C and from 0.67°C to 1.07°C for cold thresholds. The ICC values for intra-rater reliability ranged from 0.41 to 0.72 for warm thresholds and from 0.67 to 0.84 for cold thresholds. S1-S2diff ranged from -0.15°C to 0.07°C for warm thresholds, and from -0.08°C to 0.07°C for cold thresholds. SEM ranged from 0.26°C to 0.38°C for warm thresholds, and from 0.23°C to 0.38°C for cold thresholds. Estimated MDC values were between 0.60°C and 0.88°C for warm thresholds, and 0.53°C and 0.88°C for cold thresholds. The method of levels for determining cutaneous temperature sensitivity has acceptable reliability.

The Modified Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire: Reliability, Validity, and Responsiveness of a Dutch Language Version.

PubMed

Denteneer, Lenie; Van Daele, Ulrike; Truijen, Steven; De Hertogh, Willem; Meirte, Jill; Deckers, Kristiaan; Stassijns, Gaetane

2018-03-01

Cross-sectional study. The goal of this study is to translate the English version of the Modified Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire (MDQ) into a Dutch version and investigate its clinimetric properties for patients with nonspecific chronic low back pain (CLBP). Fritz et al (2001) developed a modified version of the Oswestry Disability Questionnaire (ODI) to assess functional status and named it the MDQ. In this version, a question regarding employment and homemaking ability was substituted for the question related to sex life. Good clinimetric properties for the MDQ were identified but up until now it is not clear whether the clinimetric properties of the MDQ would change if it was translated into a Dutch version. Translation of the MDQ into Dutch was done in 4 steps. Test-retest reliability was investigated using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) model. Validity was calculated using Pearson correlations and a 2-way analysis of variance for repeated measures. Finally, responsiveness was calculated with the area under the curve (AUC), minimal detectable change (MDC), and the standardized response mean (SRM). A total of 80 completed questionnaires were collected in 3 different hospitals and a total of 43 patients finished a 9 weeks intervention period, completing the retest. Test-retest reliability was excellent with an ICC of 0.89 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.74-0.95). To confirm the convergent validity, the MDQ answered all predefined hypothesises (r = -0.65-0.69/P = 0.01-0.00) and good results for construct validity were found (P = 0.02). The MDQ had an AUC of 0.64 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.47-0.81), an MDC of 8.80 points, and a SRM of 0.65. The Dutch version of the MDQ shows good clinimetric properties and is shown to be usable in the assessment of the functional status of Dutch-speaking patients with nonspecific CLBP. 3.

Medical decision-making capacity in patients with malignant glioma.

PubMed

Triebel, Kristen L; Martin, Roy C; Nabors, Louis B; Marson, Daniel C

2009-12-15

Patients with malignant glioma (MG) must make ongoing medical treatment decisions concerning a progressive disease that erodes cognition. We prospectively assessed medical decision-making capacity (MDC) in patients with MG using a standardized psychometric instrument. Participants were 22 healthy controls and 26 patients with histologically verified MG. Group performance was compared on the Capacity to Consent to Treatment Instrument (CCTI), a psychometric measure of MDC incorporating 4 standards (choice, understanding, reasoning, and appreciation), and on neuropsychological and demographic variables. Capacity outcomes (capable, marginally capable, or incapable) on the CCTI standards were identified for the MG group. Within the MG group, scores on demographic, clinical, and neuropsychological variables were correlated with scores on each CCTI standard, and significant bivariate correlates were subsequently entered into exploratory stepwise regression analyses to identify multivariate cognitive predictors of the CCTI standards. Patients with MG performed significantly below controls on consent standards of understanding and reasoning, and showed a trend on appreciation. Relative to controls, more than 50% of the patients with MG demonstrated capacity compromise (marginally capable or incapable outcomes) in MDC. In the MG group, cognitive measures of verbal acquisition/recall and, to a lesser extent, semantic fluency predicted performance on the appreciation, reasoning, and understanding standards. Karnofsky score was also associated with CCTI performance. Soon after diagnosis, patients with malignant glioma (MG) have impaired capacity to make treatment decisions relative to controls. Medical decision-making capacity (MDC) impairment in MG seems to be primarily related to the effects of short-term verbal memory deficits. Ongoing assessment of MDC in patients with MG is strongly recommended.

Multipolar Ewald Methods, 2: Applications Using a Quantum Mechanical Force Field

PubMed Central

2015-01-01

A fully quantum mechanical force field (QMFF) based on a modified “divide-and-conquer” (mDC) framework is applied to a series of molecular simulation applications, using a generalized Particle Mesh Ewald method extended to multipolar charge densities. Simulation results are presented for three example applications: liquid water, p-nitrophenylphosphate reactivity in solution, and crystalline N,N-dimethylglycine. Simulations of liquid water using a parametrized mDC model are compared to TIP3P and TIP4P/Ew water models and experiment. The mDC model is shown to be superior for cluster binding energies and generally comparable for bulk properties. Examination of the dissociative pathway for dephosphorylation of p-nitrophenylphosphate shows that the mDC method evaluated with the DFTB3/3OB and DFTB3/OPhyd semiempirical models bracket the experimental barrier, whereas DFTB2 and AM1/d-PhoT QM/MM simulations exhibit deficiencies in the barriers, the latter for which is related, in part, to the anomalous underestimation of the p-nitrophenylate leaving group pKa. Simulations of crystalline N,N-dimethylglycine are performed and the overall structure and atomic fluctuations are compared with the experiment and the general AMBER force field (GAFF). The QMFF, which was not parametrized for this application, was shown to be in better agreement with crystallographic data than GAFF. Our simulations highlight some of the application areas that may benefit from using new QMFFs, and they demonstrate progress toward the development of accurate QMFFs using the recently developed mDC framework. PMID:25691830

Overcoming the Challenges of Globalization: Community Colleges and the South's Economic Future.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Edwards, Allen, Ed.

2000-01-01

This newsletter offers the text of an address by David L. Dodson, President of MDC, Inc., to the presidents and officers of the Southern Association of Community, Junior, and Technical Colleges (SACTJC) on December 6, 1999 in Atlanta, Georgia. The talk focuses on MDC's fall 2000 report, the "State of the South." Research for the report…

Increasing the Relevance of Curricular and Student Services in the Urban Community College

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Padrón, Eduardo J.

2013-01-01

As one of the country's biggest and most diverse institutions of higher education, Miami Dade College (MDC) has also grown into a leader among urban community colleges operating in very similar conditions. Here, MDC President Eduardo J. Padrón summarizes the extra measures behind a graduation rate that is among the highest for this sector of the…

Enacting Common Core Instruction: How School District Leadership Drove Implementation of LDC and MDC in Kenton County, KY

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Research For Action, 2012

2012-01-01

Funded by The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Literacy Design Collaborative (LDC) and Math Design Collaborative (MDC) offer a set of instructional and formative assessment tools in literacy and math, which were developed to help educators better prepare all students to meet the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) and succeed beyond high…

Thermodynamic modelling of a membrane distillation crystallisation process for the treatment of mining wastewater.

PubMed

Nathoo, Jeeten; Randall, Dyllon Garth

2016-01-01

Membrane distillation (MD) could be applicable in zero liquid discharge applications. This is due to the fact that MD is applicable at high salinity ranges which are generally outside the scope of reverse osmosis (RO) applications, although this requires proper management of precipitating salts to avoid membrane fouling. One way of managing these salts is with MD crystallisation (MDC). This paper focuses on the applicability of MDC for the treatment of mining wastewater by thermodynamically modelling the aqueous chemistry of the process at different temperatures. The paper is based on the typical brine generated from an RO process in the South African coal mining industry and investigates the effect water recovery and operating temperature have on the salts that are predicted to crystallise out, the sequence in which they will crystallise out and purities as a function of the water recovery. The study confirmed the efficacy of using thermodynamic modelling as a tool for investigating and predicting the crystallisation aspects of the MDC process. The key finding from this work was that, for an MDC process, a purer product can be obtained at higher operating temperatures and recoveries because of the inverse solubility of calcium sulphate.

Enhancing biodegradation and energy generation via roughened surface graphite electrode in microbial desalination cell.

PubMed

Ebrahimi, Atieh; Yousefi Kebria, Daryoush; Najafpour Darzi, Ghasem

2017-09-01

The microbial desalination cell (MDC) is known as a newly developed technology for water and wastewater treatment. In this study, desalination rate, organic matter removal and energy production in the reactors with and without desalination function were compared. Herein, a new design of plain graphite called roughened surface graphite (RSG) was used as the anode electrode in both microbial fuel cell (MFC) and MDC reactors for the first time. Among the three type of anode electrodes investigated in this study, RSG electrode produced the highest power density and salt removal rate of 10.81 W/m 3 and 77.6%, respectively. Such a power density was 2.33 times higher than the MFC reactor due to the junction potential effect. In addition, adding the desalination function to the MFC reactor enhanced columbic efficiency from 21.8 to 31.4%. These results provided a proof-of-concept that the use of MDC instead of MFC would improve wastewater treatment efficiency and power generation, with an added benefit of water desalination. Furthermore, RSG can successfully be employed in an MDC or MFC, enhancing the bio-electricity generation and salt removal.

Intra and inter-session reliability of rapid Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation stimulus-response curves of tibialis anterior muscle in healthy older adults

PubMed Central

Colombo, Vera Maria; van de Ruit, Mark; Grey, Michael J.; Monticone, Marco; Ferriero, Giorgio; Pedrocchi, Alessandra; Ferrigno, Giancarlo; Ferrante, Simona

2017-01-01

Objective The clinical use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) as a technique to assess corticospinal excitability is limited by the time for data acquisition and the measurement variability. This study aimed at evaluating the reliability of Stimulus-Response (SR) curves acquired with a recently proposed rapid protocol on tibialis anterior muscle of healthy older adults. Methods Twenty-four neurologically-intact adults (age:55–75 years) were recruited for this test-retest study. During each session, six SR curves, 3 at rest and 3 during isometric muscle contractions at 5% of maximum voluntary contraction (MVC), were acquired. Motor Evoked Potentials (MEPs) were normalized to the maximum peripherally evoked response; the coil position and orientation were monitored with an optical tracking system. Intra- and inter-session reliability of motor threshold (MT), area under the curve (AURC), MEPmax, stimulation intensity at which the MEP is mid-way between MEPmax and MEPmin (I50), slope in I50, MEP latency, and silent period (SP) were assessed in terms of Standard Error of Measurement (SEM), relative SEM, Minimum Detectable Change (MDC), and Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC). Results The relative SEM was ≤10% for MT, I50, latency and SP both at rest and 5%MVC, while it ranged between 11% and 37% for AURC, MEPmax, and slope. MDC values were overall quite large; e.g., MT required a change of 12%MSO at rest and 10%MSO at 5%MVC to be considered a real change. Inter-sessions ICC were >0.6 for all measures but slope at rest and MEPmax and latency at 5%MVC. Conclusions Measures derived from SR curves acquired in <4 minutes are affected by similar measurement errors to those found with long-lasting protocols, suggesting that the rapid method is at least as reliable as the traditional methods. As specifically designed to include older adults, this study provides normative data for future studies involving older neurological patients (e.g. stroke survivors). PMID:28910370

Curcumin induced autophagy anticancer effects on human lung adenocarcinoma cell line A549

PubMed Central

Liu, Furong; Gao, Song; Yang, Yuxuan; Zhao, Xiaodan; Fan, Yameng; Ma, Wenxia; Yang, Danrong; Yang, Aimin; Yu, Yan

2017-01-01

To investigate the anticancer effects of curcumin-induced autophagy and its effects on the human lung adenocarcinoma A549 cell line, inverted phase contrast microscopy was used to observe alterations to the cytomorphology of cells. An MTT assay was used to measure cell viability. Autophagy was detected using acridine orange (AO) staining and 3-methyladenine (3-MA) was used as an autophagy-specific inhibitor. Dose- and time-dependent A549 cell viability inhibition was observed following curcumin treatment. A dose-dependent increase in the red fluorescent structures in A549 cells was identified following curcumin treatment for 48 h through AO staining. In addition, the activation of autophagy was determined through changes in the number of autophagic vesicles (AVs; fluorescent particles) infected with monodansylcadaverine (MDC). The fluorescence intensity and density of AVs in the curcumin-treated groups were higher at 48 h compared with the control group. Finally, the MTT assay demonstrated that the survival rates of the curcumin-treated cells were increased when pretreated with 3-MA for 3 h, indicating that the inhibitory effect of curcumin on A549 cells is reduced following the inhibition of autophagy. Furthermore, AO and MDC staining confirmed that 3-MA does inhibit the induction of autophagy. Thus, it was hypothesized that the induction of autophagy is partially involved in the reduction of cell viability observed following curcumin treatment. The anticancer effects of curcumin on A549 cells can be reduced using autophagy inhibitors. This suggests a possible cancer therapeutic application of curcumin through the activation of autophagy. These findings have improved the understanding of the mechanism underlying the anticancer property of curcumin. PMID:28928819

Validity and reliability of the Dutch version of the Copenhagen Hip And Groin Outcome Score (HAGOS-NL) in patients with hip pathology.

PubMed

Giezen, Hilde; Stevens, Martin; van den Akker-Scheek, Inge; Reininga, Inge H F

2017-01-01

The Copenhagen Hip And Groin Outcome Score (HAGOS) was developed to assess disease-specific consequences in young to middle-aged, physically active hip and/or groin patients. The study aimed to determine validity and reliability of the Dutch version of the HAGOS (HAGOS-NL) for middle-aged patients with hip complaints. To assess validity, 117 participants completed five questionnaires: HAGOS-NL, international Hip Outcome Tool (iHOT-12NL), Hip disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS), RAND-36 Health Survey and Tegner activity scale. Structural validity was determined by conducting confirmatory factor analysis. Construct validity was analyzed by formulating predefined hypotheses regarding relationships between the HAGOS-NL and subscales of the iHOT-12NL, HOOS, RAND-36 and Tegner activity scale. The HAGOS-NL was filled out again by 67 patients to explore test-retest reliability. Reliability was assessed in terms of Cronbach's alpha, Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC), Standard Error of Measurement (SEM) and Minimal Detectable Change (MDC). The Bland and Altman method was used to explore absolute agreement. Factor analysis confirmed that the HAGOS-NL consists of six subscales. All hypotheses were confirmed, indicating good construct validity. Internal consistency was good, with Cronbach's alpha values ranging from 0.89 to 0.98. Test-retest reliability was considered good, with ICC values of 0.80 and higher. The SEM ranged from 6.6 to 12.3, and MDC at individual level from 18.3 to 34.1 and at group level from 2.3 to 4.4. Bland and Altman analyses showed no bias. The HAGOS-NL is a reliable and valid instrument for measuring pain, physical functioning and quality of life in middle-aged patients with hip complaints.

Validity and reliability of a Dutch version of the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure.

PubMed

Weel, Hanneke; Zwiers, Ruben; Azim, Donija; Sierevelt, Inger N; Haverkamp, Daniel; van Dijk, C Niek; Kerkhoffs, Gino M M J

2016-04-01

The aim of the study was to develop a Dutch language version of the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) and evaluate its measurement properties according to the consensus-based standards for the selection of health measurement instruments (COSMIN) definitions. A forward-backward translation procedure was performed and subsequently the Dutch version of the FAAM was evaluated for its reliability and validity in 369 patients with a variety of foot and ankle complaints. The reliability was assessed by calculating the intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC, test-retest reliability), Cronbach's alpha (internal consistency), the standard error of measurement and the minimal detectable change (MDC). Additionally, this was done for athletes. The construct validity was assessed by the use of Spearman's correlation coefficient between FAAM domains and similar and contradictory domains of the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score, Short Form 36 and the Numeric Rating Scale for pain. The ICC of the subscales ranged from 0.62 to 0.86. Cronbach's alpha's minimum was 0.97. At individual level, the MDC ranged from 23.9 to 44.7 and at group level from 2.77 to 4.32. In the subgroup of athletes, the reliability was higher. The hypothesized correlations of the construct validity were supported by an 80% confirmation rate. The Dutch version of the FAAM met adequate measurement properties, although the reliability is not optimal. The FAAM-Sport subscale is more useful in athletes and the FAAM-Sport % seems not to contribute. In athletes with various foot and ankle symptoms, the FAAM can be used for functional assessment and follow-up at group level. For the general population, the FAAM is less appropriate. Diagnostic study, Level I.

Validity and reliability of the Nintendo Wii Balance Board for assessment of standing balance.

PubMed

Clark, Ross A; Bryant, Adam L; Pua, Yonghao; McCrory, Paul; Bennell, Kim; Hunt, Michael

2010-03-01

Impaired standing balance has a detrimental effect on a person's functional ability and increases their risk of falling. There is currently no validated system which can precisely quantify center of pressure (COP), an important component of standing balance, while being inexpensive, portable and widely available. The Wii Balance Board (WBB) fits these criteria, and we examined its validity in comparison with the 'gold standard'-a laboratory-grade force platform (FP). Thirty subjects without lower limb pathology performed a combination of single and double leg standing balance tests with eyes open or closed on two separate occasions. Data from the WBB were acquired using a laptop computer. The test-retest reliability for COP path length for each of the testing devices, including a comparison of the WBB and FP data, was examined using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), Bland-Altman plots (BAP) and minimum detectable change (MDC). Both devices exhibited good to excellent COP path length test-retest reliability within-device (ICC=0.66-0.94) and between-device (ICC=0.77-0.89) on all testing protocols. Examination of the BAP revealed no relationship between the difference and the mean in any test, however the MDC values for the WBB did exceed those of the FP in three of the four tests. These findings suggest that the WBB is a valid tool for assessing standing balance. Given that the WBB is portable, widely available and a fraction of the cost of a FP, it could provide the average clinician with a standing balance assessment tool suitable for the clinical setting. Copyright 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Reliability and Validity of the Pain Anxiety Symptom Scale in Persian Speaking Chronic Low Back Pain Patients.

PubMed

Shanbehzadeh, Sanaz; Salavati, Mahyar; Tavahomi, Mahnaz; Khatibi, Ali; Talebian, Saeed; Khademi-Kalantari, Khosro

2017-11-01

Psychometric testing of the Persian version of Pain Anxiety Symptom Scale 20. The aim of this study was to assess the reliability and construct validity of the PASS-20 in nonspecific chronic low back pain (LBP) patients. The PASS-20 is a self-report questionnaire that assesses pain-related anxiety. The Psychometric properties of this instrument have not been assessed in Persian-speaking chronic LBP patients. One hundred and sixty participants with chronic LBP completed the Persian version of PASS-20, Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia (TSK), Fear-Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire (FABQ), Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS), trait form of the State-Trait Anxiety (STAI-T), Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Index (ODI), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II), and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). To evaluate test-retest reliability, 60 patients filled out the PASS-20, 6 to 8 days after the first visit. Test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC], standard error of measurement [SEM], and minimal detectable change [MDC]), internal consistency, dimensionality, and construct validity were examined. The ICCs of the PASS-20 subscales and total score ranged from 0.71 to 0.8. The SEMs for PASS-20 total score was 7.29 and for the subscales ranged from 2.43 to 2.98. The MDC for the total score was 20.14 and for the subscales ranged from 6.71 to 8.23. The Cronbach alpha values for the subscales and total score ranged from 0.70 to 0.91. Significant positive correlations were found between the PASS-20 total score and PCS, TSK, FABQ, ODI, BDI, STAI-T, and pain intensity. The Persian version of the PASS-20 showed acceptable psychometric properties for the assessment of pain-related anxiety in Persian-speaking patients with chronic LBP. 3.

The Persian version of satisfaction assessment module of Orthotics and Prosthetics Users' Survey.

PubMed

Hadadi, Mohammad; Ghoseiri, Kamiar; Fardipour, Shima; Kashani, Reza Vahab; Asadi, Farnoosh; Asghari, Azizeh

2016-01-01

Orthotics and Prosthetics User's Survey (OPUS) was developed to measure patient satisfaction in Prosthetic and Orthotic (P&O) field. To translate the satisfaction assessment module of OPUS (OPUS-SM) into Persian language (Persian OPUS-SM) and investigate its psychometric properties. For cross-cultural adaptation of the OPUS-SM, the guideline suggested by the World Health Organization was recruited. A sample of 116 Persian-speaking people who received P&O devices and services, participated in this study. During the first session, participants filled out the Persian OPUS-SM and the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) regarding their satisfaction from delivered devices and services. Drawing from the above sample of 116 participants, 41 participants retook the Persian OPUS-SM 5-7 days after their first time. The results of the first and second administration sessions were analyzed to assess internal consistency, test-retest reliability, item-subscale correlation, minimal detectable change, floor and ceiling effects, criterion validity, and dimensionality of the Persian OPUS-SM. The Cronbach's alphas of the Persian OPUS-SM were 0.71 and 0.89 for device and service satisfaction subscales, respectively. The intraclass correlation coefficients were 0.76 and 0.90 for device and service satisfaction subscales, respectively. The SEM and MDC for device satisfaction were 6.21 and ±17.21, respectively. The SEM and MDC for service satisfaction were 2.25 and ±6.22, respectively. There was a strong correlation between VAS and satisfaction subscales of the Persian OPUS-SM. Dimensionality assessment revealed that Persian OPUS-SM is a unidimensional measure. The adapted and translated Persian OPUS-SM is a reliable and validated measure. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Work-related measures of physical and behavioral health function: Test-retest reliability.

PubMed

Marino, Molly Elizabeth; Meterko, Mark; Marfeo, Elizabeth E; McDonough, Christine M; Jette, Alan M; Ni, Pengsheng; Bogusz, Kara; Rasch, Elizabeth K; Brandt, Diane E; Chan, Leighton

2015-10-01

The Work Disability Functional Assessment Battery (WD-FAB), developed for potential use by the US Social Security Administration to assess work-related function, currently consists of five multi-item scales assessing physical function and four multi-item scales assessing behavioral health function; the WD-FAB scales are administered as Computerized Adaptive Tests (CATs). The goal of this study was to evaluate the test-retest reliability of the WD-FAB Physical Function and Behavioral Health CATs. We administered the WD-FAB scales twice, 7-10 days apart, to a sample of 376 working age adults and 316 adults with work-disability. Intraclass correlation coefficients were calculated to measure the consistency of the scores between the two administrations. Standard error of measurement (SEM) and minimal detectable change (MDC90) were also calculated to measure the scales precision and sensitivity. For the Physical Function CAT scales, the ICCs ranged from 0.76 to 0.89 in the working age adult sample, and 0.77-0.86 in the sample of adults with work-disability. ICCs for the Behavioral Health CAT scales ranged from 0.66 to 0.70 in the working age adult sample, and 0.77-0.80 in the adults with work-disability. The SEM ranged from 3.25 to 4.55 for the Physical Function scales and 5.27-6.97 for the Behavioral Health function scales. For all scales in both samples, the MDC90 ranged from 7.58 to 16.27. Both the Physical Function and Behavioral Health CATs of the WD-FAB demonstrated good test-retest reliability in adults with work-disability and general adult samples, a critical requirement for assessing work related functioning in disability applicants and in other contexts. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Work-related measures of Physical and Behavioral Health Function: Test-Retest Reliability

PubMed Central

Marino, Molly Elizabeth; Meterko, Mark; Marfeo, Elizabeth E.; McDonough, Christine M.; Jette, Alan M.; Ni, Pengsheng; Bogusz, Kara; Rasch, Elizabeth K.; Brandt, Diane E.; Chan, Leighton

2015-01-01

Background The Work Disability Functional Assessment Battery (WD-FAB), developed for potential use by the US Social Security Administration to assess work-related function, currently consists of five multi-item scales assessing physical function and four multi-item scales assessing behavioral health function; the WD-FAB scales are administered as Computerized Adaptive Tests (CATs). Objective The goal of this study was to evaluate the test-retest reliability of the WD-FAB Physical Function and Behavioral Health CATs. Methods We administered the WD-FAB scales twice, 7–10 days apart, to a sample of 376 working age adults and 316 adults with work-disability. Intraclass correlation coefficients were calculated to measure the consistency of the scores between the two administrations. Standard error of measurement (SEM) and minimal detectable change (MDC90) were also calculated to measure the scales precision and sensitivity. Results For the Physical Function CAT scales, the ICCs ranged from 0.76–0.89 in the working age adult sample, and 0.77–0.86 in the sample of adults with work-disability. ICCs for the Behavioral Health CAT scales ranged from 0.66–0.70 in the working age adult sample, and 0.77–0.80 in the adults with work-disability. The SEM ranged from 3.25–4.55 for the Physical Function scales and 5.27–6.97 for the Behavioral Health function scales. For all scales in both samples, the MDC90 ranged from 7.58–16.27. Conclusion Both the Physical Function and Behavioral Health CATs of the WD-FAB demonstrated good test-retest reliability in adults with work-disability and general adult samples, a critical requirement for assessing work related functioning in disability applicants and in other contexts. PMID:25991419

A study of measurement properties of the Life-Space Assessment questionnaire in older adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

PubMed

Garcia, Isabel Fialho Fontenele; Tiuganji, Carina Tiemi; Simões, Maria do Socorro Morais Pereira; Lunardi, Adriana Claudia

2018-06-01

To test the measurement properties (reliability, interpretability, and validity) of the Life-Space Assessment questionnaire for older adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Clinimetric study. Pneumology service, ambulatory care, São Paulo, SP, Brazil. Consecutive sample of older adults ( n = 62; 38 (61%) men, 24 (39%) women) with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Not applicable. Life-Space Assessment questionnaire assesses five space levels visited by the older adult in four weeks prior to the assessment. We tested the following measurement properties of this questionnaire: reliability (reproducibility assessed by a type-2,1 intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC 2,1 ); internal consistency assessed by the Cronbach's alpha; measurement error by determining the standard error of measurement (SEM)), interpretability (minimum detectable change with 90% confidence (MDC 90 ); ceiling and floor effects by calculating the proportion of participants who achieved the minimum and maximum scores), and validity by Pearson's correlation test between the Life-Space Assessment questionnaire scores and number of daily steps assessed by accelerometry. Reproducibility (ICC 2,1 ) was 0.90 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.84-0.94), and internal consistency (Cronbach's α) was 0.80 (range = 0.76-0.80 for each item deleted). SEM was 3.65 points (3%), the MDC 90 was 0.20 points, and we observed no ceiling (2%) or floor (6%) effects. We observed an association between the score of the Life-Space Assessment questionnaire and daily steps ( r = 0.43; P = 0.01). Life-Space Assessment questionnaire shows adequate measurement properties for the assessment of life-space mobility in older adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Clinimetric properties of the Tinetti Mobility Test, Four Square Step Test, Activities-specific Balance Confidence Scale, and spatiotemporal gait measures in individuals with Huntington's disease

PubMed Central

Kloos, Anne D.; Fritz, Nora E.; Kostyk, Sandra K.; Young, Gregory S.; Kegelmeyer, Deb A.

2014-01-01

Background and purpose Individuals with Huntington's disease (HD) experience balance and gait problems that lead to falls. Clinicians currently have very little information about the reliability and validity of outcome measures to determine the efficacy of interventions that aim to reduce balance and gait impairments in HD. This study examined the reliability and concurrent validity of spatiotemporal gait measures, the Tinetti Mobility Test (TMT), Four Square Step Test (FSST), and Activities-specific Balance Confidence (ABC) Scale in individuals with HD. Methods Participants with HD [n = 20; mean age ± SD = 50.9 ± 13.7; 7 male] were tested on spatiotemporal gait measures the TMT, FSST, and ABC Scale before and after a six week period to determine test–retest reliability and minimal detectable change (MDC) values. Linear relationships between gait and clinical measures were estimated using Pearson's correlation coefficients. Results Spatiotemporal gait measures, the TMT total and the FSST showed good to excellent test–retest reliability (ICC > 0.75). MDC values were 0.30 m/s and 0.17 m/s for velocity in forward and backward walking respectively, four points for the TMT, and 3 s for the FSST. The TMT and FSST were highly correlated with most spatiotemporal measures. The ABC Scale demonstrated lower reliability and less concurrent validity than other measures. Conclusions The high test–retest reliability over a six week period and concurrent validity between the TMT, FSST, and spatiotemporal gait measures suggest that the TMT and FSST may be useful outcome measures for future intervention studies in ambulatory individuals with HD. PMID:25128156

Clinimetric properties of the Tinetti Mobility Test, Four Square Step Test, Activities-specific Balance Confidence Scale, and spatiotemporal gait measures in individuals with Huntington's disease.

PubMed

Kloos, Anne D; Fritz, Nora E; Kostyk, Sandra K; Young, Gregory S; Kegelmeyer, Deb A

2014-09-01

Individuals with Huntington's disease (HD) experience balance and gait problems that lead to falls. Clinicians currently have very little information about the reliability and validity of outcome measures to determine the efficacy of interventions that aim to reduce balance and gait impairments in HD. This study examined the reliability and concurrent validity of spatiotemporal gait measures, the Tinetti Mobility Test (TMT), Four Square Step Test (FSST), and Activities-specific Balance Confidence (ABC) Scale in individuals with HD. Participants with HD [n = 20; mean age ± SD=50.9 ± 13.7; 7 male] were tested on spatiotemporal gait measures and the TMT, FSST, and ABC Scale before and after a six week period to determine test-retest reliability and minimal detectable change (MDC) values. Linear relationships between gait and clinical measures were estimated using Pearson's correlation coefficients. Spatiotemporal gait measures, the TMT total and the FSST showed good to excellent test-retest reliability (ICC > 0.75). MDC values were 0.30 m/s and 0.17 m/s for velocity in forward and backward walking respectively, four points for the TMT, and 3s for the FSST. The TMT and FSST were highly correlated with most spatiotemporal measures. The ABC Scale demonstrated lower reliability and less concurrent validity than other measures. The high test-retest reliability over a six week period and concurrent validity between the TMT, FSST, and spatiotemporal gait measures suggest that the TMT and FSST may be useful outcome measures for future intervention studies in ambulatory individuals with HD. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Curcumin induced autophagy anticancer effects on human lung adenocarcinoma cell line A549.

PubMed

Liu, Furong; Gao, Song; Yang, Yuxuan; Zhao, Xiaodan; Fan, Yameng; Ma, Wenxia; Yang, Danrong; Yang, Aimin; Yu, Yan

2017-09-01

To investigate the anticancer effects of curcumin-induced autophagy and its effects on the human lung adenocarcinoma A549 cell line, inverted phase contrast microscopy was used to observe alterations to the cytomorphology of cells. An MTT assay was used to measure cell viability. Autophagy was detected using acridine orange (AO) staining and 3-methyladenine (3-MA) was used as an autophagy-specific inhibitor. Dose- and time-dependent A549 cell viability inhibition was observed following curcumin treatment. A dose-dependent increase in the red fluorescent structures in A549 cells was identified following curcumin treatment for 48 h through AO staining. In addition, the activation of autophagy was determined through changes in the number of autophagic vesicles (AVs; fluorescent particles) infected with monodansylcadaverine (MDC). The fluorescence intensity and density of AVs in the curcumin-treated groups were higher at 48 h compared with the control group. Finally, the MTT assay demonstrated that the survival rates of the curcumin-treated cells were increased when pretreated with 3-MA for 3 h, indicating that the inhibitory effect of curcumin on A549 cells is reduced following the inhibition of autophagy. Furthermore, AO and MDC staining confirmed that 3-MA does inhibit the induction of autophagy. Thus, it was hypothesized that the induction of autophagy is partially involved in the reduction of cell viability observed following curcumin treatment. The anticancer effects of curcumin on A549 cells can be reduced using autophagy inhibitors. This suggests a possible cancer therapeutic application of curcumin through the activation of autophagy. These findings have improved the understanding of the mechanism underlying the anticancer property of curcumin.

Zimbabwe: Background

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-07-08

uncompensated seizure of white-owned land for redistribution to black farmers. The referendum failed, and the MDC won nearly half the seats in the...concluded a series of agreements with the black majority in 1979 that resulted in the establishment of the government of the Republic of Zimbabwe...Committee (chaired by an MDC MP), but was later revised and approved in June 2007. Critics suggest that the revisions were cosmetic

Strain characteristics of Marburg double crown-retained implant overdentures compared with bar and ball-retained implant overdentures, with and without a rigid major connector.

PubMed

Kazokoğlu, F Şehnaz; Akaltan, Funda

2014-12-01

It is hard to identify the most favorable retainer type and the denture design when considering strain levels around implants and in edentulous ridges for implant overdentures (IOVD). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the strain transmitted to the implants and edentulous ridges by Marburg double crown (MDC)-retained IOVD as opposed to bar and ball-retained IOVD and the efficiency of a rigid major connector in the maxilla. An in vitro maxillary model was prepared with 4 implants, with strain gauges placed distally to each implant and also in the anterior and posterior edentulous ridges. Five overdentures were fabricated for each MDC and each ball and bar attachment retainers. Vertical loads of 280 N were applied bilaterally on the first molar region. Then the palatal bars of each IOVD were disconnected, and loading procedures were repeated for the prostheses. No significant difference was observed among the MDC and the bar and ball-retained IOVD, with and without a rigid bar according to the data taken from both the implants and edentulous ridges. However, when the strain values attained from each strain gauge separately were considered, a slight difference was observed around the implants of ball-retained overdentures and in the edentulous ridges of MDC-retained overdentures. Within the limitations of this in vitro study, MDC-retained maxillary overdentures with 4 parallel and symmetrically placed implants can be used safely without a rigid major connector as with bar and ball-retained IOVD with regard to the strains generated in the edentulous ridge and around implants. Copyright © 2014 Editorial Council for the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Development of a diet quality index assessing adherence to the Swedish nutrition recommendations and dietary guidelines in the Malmö Diet and Cancer cohort.

PubMed

Drake, Isabel; Gullberg, Bo; Ericson, Ulrika; Sonestedt, Emily; Nilsson, Jan; Wallström, Peter; Hedblad, Bo; Wirfält, Elisabet

2011-05-01

To develop a diet quality index (DQI) that assesses adherence to the Swedish nutrition recommendations (SNR) and the Swedish dietary guidelines (SDG). A cross-sectional study within the Malmö Diet and Cancer (MDC) cohort. A diet history method collected dietary data, a structured questionnaire lifestyle and socio-economic information, and anthropometric data were collected by direct measurements. The index (DQI-SNR) included six components: SFA, PUFA, fish and shellfish, dietary fibre, fruit and vegetables, and sucrose. Malmö, Sweden. Men (n 4525) and women (n 8491) of the MDC cohort enrolled from September 1994 to October 1996. For participants with high DQI-SNR scores, nutrient and food intakes were close to recommendations. However, most of the study population exceeded the recommended intake for SFA (98%) and few reached recommended intakes for dietary fibre (24%), fruit and vegetables (32%), vitamin D (18%) and folate (2%). A high DQI-SNR score was positively associated with age, physical activity, not smoking, past food habit change, education and socio-economic status. Individuals with high scores were more likely to have a diabetes diagnosis or experienced a cardiovascular event. Results suggest that the DQI-SNR is a useful tool for assessing adherence to the SNR 2005 and the SDG in the MDC cohort. No index has previously been developed with the aim of evaluating adherence to the current dietary recommendations in Sweden. Further validation of the DQI-SNR, and evaluation of its utility, is needed.

Notched bar Izod impact properties of zinc die castings

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

Schrems, K.K.; Dogan, O.N.; Goodwin, F.E.

2007-03-01

Notched bar Izod impact testing of zinc die cast Alloy 3, Alloy 5, ZA-8, and AcuZinc 5 was performed at five temperatures between -40\\mDC and room temperature in accordance with ASTM E23 for impact testing of metallic materials. A direct comparison between ASTM D256 for impact testing of plastics and ASTM E23 was performed using continuously cast zinc specimens of Alloy 5 and ZA-8 at -40\\mDC and room temperature. There are differences in sample sizes, impact velocity, and striker geometry between the two tests. Bulk zinc tested according to ASTM E23 resulted in higher impact energies at -40\\mDC and lowermore » impact energies at room temperature then did the same alloys when tested according to ASTM D256.« less

High energy dispersion relations for the high temperature Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8 superconductor from laser-based angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy.

PubMed

Zhang, Wentao; Liu, Guodong; Meng, Jianqiao; Zhao, Lin; Liu, Haiyun; Dong, Xiaoli; Lu, Wei; Wen, J S; Xu, Z J; Gu, G D; Sasagawa, T; Wang, Guiling; Zhu, Yong; Zhang, Hongbo; Zhou, Yong; Wang, Xiaoyang; Zhao, Zhongxian; Chen, Chuangtian; Xu, Zuyan; Zhou, X J

2008-07-04

Laser-based angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy measurements have been carried out on the high energy electron dynamics in Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8 high temperature superconductor. Our superhigh resolution data, momentum-dependent measurements, and complete analysis provide important information to judge the nature of the high energy dispersion and kink. Our results rule out the possibility that the high energy dispersion from the momentum distribution curve (MDC) may represent the true bare band as believed in previous studies. We also rule out the possibility that the high energy kink represents electron coupling with some high energy modes as proposed before. Through detailed MDC and energy distribution curve analyses, we propose that the high energy MDC dispersion may not represent intrinsic band structure.

Mutation and Selection of Lactobacillus plantarum Strains That Do Not Produce Carbon Dioxide from Malate †

PubMed Central

Daeschel, M. A.; McFeeters, R. F.; Fleming, H. P.; Klaenhammer, T. R.; Sanozky, R. B.

1984-01-01

A differential medium was developed to distinguish between malate-decarboxylating (MDC+) and -non-decarboxylating (MDC−) strains of Lactobacillus plantarum. MDC− strains produced a visible acid reaction in the medium, whereas MDC+ strains did not. Use of the medium allowed for rapid screening and isolation of mutagenized cells that had lost the ability to produce CO2 from malate. PMID:16346479

The Combat Cloud: Enabling Multi-Domain Command and Control Across the Range of Military Operations

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-03-01

and joint by their very nature.3 The Combat Cloud architecture will enable MDC2 by increasing the interoperability of existing networks...order to provide operating platforms with a robust architecture that communicates with relevant players, operates at reduced levels of connectivity...responsibility or aircraft platform, and a Combat Cloud architecture helps focus thought toward achieving efficient MDC2 and effects rather than

Bioenergetic Impairment in Congenital Muscular Dystrophy Type 1A and Leigh Syndrome Muscle Cells

PubMed Central

Fontes-Oliveira, Cibely C.; Steinz, Maarten; Schneiderat, Peter; Mulder, Hindrik; Durbeej, Madeleine

2017-01-01

Skeletal muscle has high energy requirement and alterations in metabolism are associated with pathological conditions causing muscle wasting and impaired regeneration. Congenital muscular dystrophy type 1A (MDC1A) is a severe muscle disorder caused by mutations in the LAMA2 gene. Leigh syndrome (LS) is a neurometabolic disease caused by mutations in genes related to mitochondrial function. Skeletal muscle is severely affected in both diseases and a common feature is muscle weakness that leads to hypotonia and respiratory problems. Here, we have investigated the bioenergetic profile in myogenic cells from MDC1A and LS patients. We found dysregulated expression of genes related to energy production, apoptosis and proteasome in myoblasts and myotubes. Moreover, impaired mitochondrial function and a compensatory upregulation of glycolysis were observed when monitored in real-time. Also, alterations in cell cycle populations in myoblasts and enhanced caspase-3 activity in myotubes were observed. Thus, we have for the first time demonstrated an impairment of the bioenergetic status in human MDC1A and LS muscle cells, which could contribute to cell cycle disturbance and increased apoptosis. Our findings suggest that skeletal muscle metabolism might be a promising pharmacological target in order to improve muscle function, energy efficiency and tissue maintenance of MDC1A and LS patients. PMID:28367954

Translation, cross-cultural adaptation and psychometric properties of the Nepali versions of numerical pain rating scale and global rating of change.

PubMed

Sharma, Saurab; Palanchoke, Joshna; Reed, Darren; Haxby Abbott, J

2017-12-04

Pain intensity and patients' impression of global improvement are widely used patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) in clinical practice and research. They are commonly assessed using the Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) and Global Rating of Change (GROC) questionnaires. The GROC is essential as an anchor for evaluating the psychometric properties of PROMs. Both of these PROMs are translated to many languages and have shown excellent psychometric properties. Their availability in Nepali would facilitate pain research and cross-cultural comparison of research findings. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to translate and cross-culturally adapt the NPRS and GROC into Nepali and to assess the psychometric properties of the Nepali version of the NPRS (NPRS-NP). After translating and cross-culturally adapting the NPRS and GROC into Nepali using recommended guidelines, NPRS-NP was administered to 104 individuals with musculoskeletal pain twice. The Nepali version of the GROC (GROC-NP) was administered at the follow-up for anchor-based assessment. (1) Test-retest reliability and minimum detectable change (MDC) among the stable group, (2) construct validity (by single sample t-test within the improved group and independent sample t-test between groups), and (3) concurrent validity were assessed. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were plotted to determine the responsiveness of the NPRS-NP using the area under the curve (AUC), and minimum important changes (MIC) for small, medium and large improvements. Significant cultural adaptations were required to obtain relevant Nepali versions of both the NPRS and GROC. The NPRS-NP showed excellent test-retest reliability and a MDC of 1.13 points. NPRS-NP demonstrated a good construct validity by significant within-group difference in mean of NPRS score- t(63)= 7.57, P < 0.001 and statistically significant difference of mean score- t(98)= -4.24, P < .001 between the stable and improved groups. It demonstrated moderate concurrent correlation with the GROC-NP; r = 0.43, P < 0.01. Responsiveness of the NPRS-NP was shown at three levels with AUC = 0.68-0.82, and MIC = 1.17-1.33. The NPRS and GROC were successfully translated and culturally adapted into Nepali. The NPRS-NP demonstrated good reliability, validity and responsiveness in assessing musculoskeletal pain intensity in a Nepali population.

CAFE: an R package for the detection of gross chromosomal abnormalities from gene expression microarray data.

PubMed

Bollen, Sander; Leddin, Mathias; Andrade-Navarro, Miguel A; Mah, Nancy

2014-05-15

The current methods available to detect chromosomal abnormalities from DNA microarray expression data are cumbersome and inflexible. CAFE has been developed to alleviate these issues. It is implemented as an R package that analyzes Affymetrix *.CEL files and comes with flexible plotting functions, easing visualization of chromosomal abnormalities. CAFE is available from https://bitbucket.org/cob87icW6z/cafe/ as both source and compiled packages for Linux and Windows. It is released under the GPL version 3 license. CAFE will also be freely available from Bioconductor. sander.h.bollen@gmail.com or nancy.mah@mdc-berlin.de Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.

Robot-Assisted End-Effector-Based Stair Climbing for Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing: Feasibility, Reliability, and Repeatability.

PubMed

Stoller, Oliver; Schindelholz, Matthias; Hunt, Kenneth J

2016-01-01

Neurological impairments can limit the implementation of conventional cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) and cardiovascular training strategies. A promising approach to provoke cardiovascular stress while facilitating task-specific exercise in people with disabilities is feedback-controlled robot-assisted end-effector-based stair climbing (RASC). The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility, reliability, and repeatability of augmented RASC-based CPET in able-bodied subjects, with a view towards future research and applications in neurologically impaired populations. Twenty able-bodied subjects performed a familiarisation session and 2 consecutive incremental CPETs using augmented RASC. Outcome measures focussed on standard cardiopulmonary performance parameters and on accuracy of work rate tracking (RMSEP-root mean square error). Criteria for feasibility were cardiopulmonary responsiveness and technical implementation. Relative and absolute test-retest reliability were assessed by intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), standard error of the measurement (SEM), and minimal detectable change (MDC). Mean differences, limits of agreement, and coefficients of variation (CoV) were estimated to assess repeatability. All criteria for feasibility were achieved. Mean V'O2peak was 106±9% of predicted V'O2max and mean HRpeak was 99±3% of predicted HRmax. 95% of the subjects achieved at least 1 criterion for V'O2max, and the detection of the sub-maximal ventilatory thresholds was successful (ventilatory anaerobic threshold 100%, respiratory compensation point 90% of the subjects). Excellent reliability was found for peak cardiopulmonary outcome measures (ICC ≥ 0.890, SEM ≤ 0.60%, MDC ≤ 1.67%). Repeatability for the primary outcomes was good (CoV ≤ 0.12). RASC-based CPET with feedback-guided exercise intensity demonstrated comparable or higher peak cardiopulmonary performance variables relative to predicted values, achieved the criteria for V'O2max, and allowed determination of sub-maximal ventilatory thresholds. The reliability and repeatability were found to be high. There is potential for augmented RASC to be used for exercise testing and prescription in populations with neurological impairments who would benefit from repetitive task-specific training.

Robot-Assisted End-Effector-Based Stair Climbing for Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing: Feasibility, Reliability, and Repeatability

PubMed Central

Stoller, Oliver; Schindelholz, Matthias; Hunt, Kenneth J.

2016-01-01

Background Neurological impairments can limit the implementation of conventional cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) and cardiovascular training strategies. A promising approach to provoke cardiovascular stress while facilitating task-specific exercise in people with disabilities is feedback-controlled robot-assisted end-effector-based stair climbing (RASC). The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility, reliability, and repeatability of augmented RASC-based CPET in able-bodied subjects, with a view towards future research and applications in neurologically impaired populations. Methods Twenty able-bodied subjects performed a familiarisation session and 2 consecutive incremental CPETs using augmented RASC. Outcome measures focussed on standard cardiopulmonary performance parameters and on accuracy of work rate tracking (RMSEP−root mean square error). Criteria for feasibility were cardiopulmonary responsiveness and technical implementation. Relative and absolute test-retest reliability were assessed by intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), standard error of the measurement (SEM), and minimal detectable change (MDC). Mean differences, limits of agreement, and coefficients of variation (CoV) were estimated to assess repeatability. Results All criteria for feasibility were achieved. Mean V′O2peak was 106±9% of predicted V′O2max and mean HRpeak was 99±3% of predicted HRmax. 95% of the subjects achieved at least 1 criterion for V′O2max, and the detection of the sub-maximal ventilatory thresholds was successful (ventilatory anaerobic threshold 100%, respiratory compensation point 90% of the subjects). Excellent reliability was found for peak cardiopulmonary outcome measures (ICC ≥ 0.890, SEM ≤ 0.60%, MDC ≤ 1.67%). Repeatability for the primary outcomes was good (CoV ≤ 0.12). Conclusions RASC-based CPET with feedback-guided exercise intensity demonstrated comparable or higher peak cardiopulmonary performance variables relative to predicted values, achieved the criteria for V′O2max, and allowed determination of sub-maximal ventilatory thresholds. The reliability and repeatability were found to be high. There is potential for augmented RASC to be used for exercise testing and prescription in populations with neurological impairments who would benefit from repetitive task-specific training. PMID:26849137

Monoaminylation of Fibrinogen and Glia-Derived Proteins: Indication for Similar Mechanisms in Posttranslational Protein Modification in Blood and Brain.

PubMed

Hummerich, René; Costina, Victor; Findeisen, Peter; Schloss, Patrick

2015-07-15

Distinct proteins have been demonstrated to be posttranslationally modified by covalent transamidation of serotonin (5-hydropxytryptamin) to glutamine residues of the target proteins. This process is mediated by transglutaminase (TGase) and has been termed "serotonylation." It has also been shown that other biogenic amines, including the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine, can substitute for serotonin, implying a more general mechanism of "monoaminylation" for this kind of protein modification. Here we transamidated the autofluorescent monoamine monodansylcadaverine (MDC) to purified plasma fibrinogen and to proteins from a primary glia cell culture. Electrophoretic separation of MDC-conjugated proteins followed by mass spectrometry identified three fibrinogen subunits (Aα, Bβ, γ), a homomeric Aα2 dimer, and adducts of >250 kDa molecular weight, as well as several glial proteins. TGase-mediated MDC incorporation was strongly reduced by serotonin, underlining the general mechanism of monoaminylation.

The organization of multidisciplinary care teams: modeling internal and external influences on cancer care quality.

PubMed

Fennell, Mary L; Das, Irene Prabhu; Clauser, Steven; Petrelli, Nicholas; Salner, Andrew

2010-01-01

Quality cancer treatment depends upon careful coordination between multiple treatments and treatment providers, the exchange of technical information, and regular communication between all providers and physician disciplines involved in treatment. This article will examine a particular type of organizational structure purported to regularize and streamline the communication between multiple specialists and support services involved in cancer treatment: the multidisciplinary treatment care (MDC) team. We present a targeted review of what is known about various types of MDC team structures and their impact on the quality of treatment care, and we outline a conceptual model of the connections between team context, structure, process, and performance and their subsequent effects on cancer treatment care processes and patient outcomes. Finally, we will discuss future research directions to understand how MDC teams improve patient outcomes and how characteristics of team structure, culture, leadership, and context (organizational setting and local environment) contribute to optimal multidisciplinary cancer care.

Fission barriers from multidimensionally-constrained covariant density functional theories

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lu, Bing-Nan; Zhao, Jie; Zhao, En-Guang; Zhou, Shan-Gui

2017-11-01

In recent years, we have developed the multidimensionally-constrained covariant density functional theories (MDC-CDFTs) in which both axial and spatial reflection symmetries are broken and all shape degrees of freedom described by βλμ with even μ, such as β20, β22, β30, β32, β40, etc., are included self-consistently. The MDC-CDFTs have been applied to the investigation of potential energy surfaces and fission barriers of actinide nuclei, third minima in potential energy surfaces of light actinides, shapes and potential energy surfaces of superheavy nuclei, octupole correlations between multiple chiral doublet bands in 78Br, octupole correlations in Ba isotopes, the Y32 correlations in N = 150 isotones and Zr isotopes, the spontaneous fission of Fm isotopes, and shapes of hypernuclei. In this contribution we present the formalism of MDC-CDFTs and the application of these theories to the study of fission barriers and potential energy surfaces of actinide nuclei.

Polluted Pathways: Mechanisms of Metabolic Disruption by Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals.

PubMed

Mimoto, Mizuho S; Nadal, Angel; Sargis, Robert M

2017-06-01

Environmental toxicants are increasingly implicated in the global decline in metabolic health. Focusing on diabetes, herein, the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which metabolism disrupting chemicals (MDCs) impair energy homeostasis are discussed. Emerging data implicate MDC perturbations in a variety of pathways as contributors to metabolic disease pathogenesis, with effects in diverse tissues regulating fuel utilization. Potentiation of traditional metabolic risk factors, such as caloric excess, and emerging threats to metabolism, such as disruptions in circadian rhythms, are important areas of current and future MDC research. Increasing evidence also implicates deleterious effects of MDCs on metabolic programming that occur during vulnerable developmental windows, such as in utero and early post-natal life as well as pregnancy. Recent insights into the mechanisms by which MDCs alter energy homeostasis will advance the field's ability to predict interactions with classical metabolic disease risk factors and empower studies utilizing targeted therapeutics to treat MDC-mediated diabetes.

Cystatin C and Risk of Diabetes and the Metabolic Syndrome - Biomarker and Genotype Association Analyses.

PubMed

Magnusson, Martin; Molvin, John; Engström, Gunnar; Svensson-Färbom, Patrik; Persson, Margaretha; Christensson, Anders; Nilsson, Peter; Melander, Olle

2016-01-01

We recently reported a relationship between plasma levels of cystatin C and incidence of the metabolic syndrome (MetS) among the first 2,369 subjects who participated in the re-examination study of the population-based Malmö and Diet Cancer Cardiovascular cohort (MDC-CC-re-exam). In this study we aimed to replicate these results and also investigate if cystatin C was causally associated with MetS and diabetes. We estimated the effect size of the strongest GWAS derived cystatin C SNP (major allele of rs13038305) on plasma cystatin C in the now completed MDC-CC-re-exam (n = 3,734) and thereafter examined the association between plasma cystatin C (403 cases of diabetes and 2665 controls) as well as rs13038305 (235 cases and 2425 controls) with incident diabetes. The association of rs13038305 and incident MetS (511 cases of MetS and 1980 controls) was similarly investigated in the whole MDC-CC-re-exam. We also attempted to replicate our previously shown association of cystatin C with incident MetS in subjects from the MDC-CC-re-exam (147 cases and 711 controls) that were not included in our previous report. In the entire MDC-CC-re-exam, each copy of the major allele of rs13038305 was associated with approximately 0.30 standard deviation (SD) higher plasma concentration of cystatin C (β = 0.33, p = 4.2E-28) in age and sex adjusted analysis. Cystatin C in plasma was not associated with incident diabetes after adjustment for known diabetes risk factors (OR per 1 SD increment 0.99 (0.86-1.13), p = 0.842). In the replication cohort of MDC-CC-re-exam, the OR (95% CI) for incident MetS in subjects belonging to quartiles 1, 2, 3 and 4 of plasma cystatin C levels was 1.00 (reference), 1.21 (0.70-2.07), 1.62 (0.95-2.78) and 1.72 (1.01-2.93) (ptrend = 0.026) in age and sex adjusted analysis. In the entire MDC-CC-re-exam the odds ratio for incident MetS and diabetes per copy of the major rs13038305 allele was 1.13, (0.95-1.34), p = 0.160 and 1.07, 95% CI 0.89-1.30, p = 0.478, respectively. We were able to replicate our previously shown association between high levels of cystatin C and increased risk of future development of MetS. However, a causal involvement of cystatin C in the etiology of MetS or diabetes seems unlikely since genetic elevation of plasma cystatin C was not significantly related to incidence of these diseases.

Multimode Directional Coupler for Utilization of Harmonic Frequencies from TWTAs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Simmons, Rainee N.; Wintucky, Edwin G.

2013-01-01

A novel waveguide multimode directional coupler (MDC) intended for the measurement and potential utilization of the second and higher order harmonic frequencies from high-power traveling wave tube amplifiers (TWTAs) has been successfully designed, fabricated, and tested. The design is based on the characteristic multiple propagation modes of the electrical and magnetic field components of electromagnetic waves in a rectangular waveguide. The purpose was to create a rugged, easily constructed, more efficient waveguide- based MDC for extraction and exploitation of the second harmonic signal from the RF output of high-power TWTs used for space communications. The application would be a satellitebased beacon source needed for Qband and V/W-band atmospheric propagation studies. The MDC could function as a CW narrow-band source or as a wideband source for study of atmospheric group delay effects on highdata- rate links. The MDC is fabricated from two sections of waveguide - a primary one for the fundamental frequency and a secondary waveguide for the second harmonic - that are joined together such that the second harmonic higher order modes are selectively coupled via precision- machined slots for propagation in the secondary waveguide. In the TWTA output waveguide port, both the fundamental and the second harmonic signals are present. These signals propagate in the output waveguide as the dominant and higher order modes, respectively. By including an appropriate mode selective waveguide directional coupler, such as the MDC presented here at the output of the TWTA, the power at the second harmonic can be sampled and amplified to the power level needed for atmospheric propagation studies. The important conclusions from the preliminary test results for the multimode directional coupler are: (1) the second harmonic (Ka-band) can be measured and effectively separated from the fundamental (Ku-band) with no coupling of the latter, (2) power losses in the fundamental frequency are negligible, and (3) the power level of the extracted second harmonic is sufficient for further amplification to power levels needed for practical applications. It was also demonstrated that third order and potentially higher order harmonics are measurable with this device. The design is frequency agnostic, and with the appropriate choice of waveguides, is easily scaled to higher frequency TWTs. The MDC has the same function but with a number of important advantages over the conventional diplexer.

Prevention of Intestinal Allergy in Mice by rflaA:Ova Is Associated with Enforced Antigen Processing and TLR5-Dependent IL-10 Secretion by mDC

PubMed Central

Schülke, Stefan; Wolfheimer, Sonja; Gadermaier, Gabriele; Wangorsch, Andrea; Siebeneicher, Susanne; Briza, Peter; Spreitzer, Ingo; Schiller, Dirk; Loeschner, Bettina; Uematsu, Satoshi; Ryffel, Bernard; Akira, Shizuo; Waibler, Zoe; Vieths, Stefan; Toda, Masako; Scheurer, Stephan

2014-01-01

Conjugated vaccines consisting of flagellin and antigen activate TLR5 and induce strong innate and adaptive immune responses. Objective of the present study was to gain further insight into the mechanisms by which flagellin fusion proteins mediate their immune modulating effects. In a mouse model of Ova-induced intestinal allergy a fusion protein of flagellin and Ova (rflaA:Ova) was used for intranasal and intraperitoneal vaccination. Aggregation status of flaA, Ova and flaA:Ova were compared by light scattering, uptake of fluorescence labeled proteins into mDC was analyzed, processing was investigated by microsomal digestion experiments. Mechanism of DC-activation was investigated using proteasome and inflammasome inhibitors. Immune responses of wildtype, IL-10−/−, TLR5−/− mDCs and Ova-transgenic T cells were investigated. Mucosal and i.p.-application of rflaA:Ova were able to prevent allergic sensitization, suppress disease-related symptoms, prevent body weight loss and reduction in food uptake. Intranasal vaccination resulted in strongest suppression of Ova-specific IgE production. These protective effects were associated with increased aggregation of rflaA:Ova and accompanied by tenfold higher uptake rates into mDC compared to the mixture of both proteins. Microsomal digestion showed that stimulation with rflaA:Ova resulted in faster degradation and the generation of different peptides compared to rOva. rflaA:Ova-mediated activation of mDC could be suppressed in a dose-dependent manner by the application of both inflammasome and proteasome inhibitors. Using TLR5−/− mDC the rflaA:Ova induced IL-10 secretion was shown to be TLR5 dependent. In co-cultures of IL-10−/− mDC with DO11.10 T cells the lack of rflaA:Ova-mediated IL-10 secretion resulted in enhanced levels of both TH2 (IL-4, IL-5) and TH1 (IL-2 and IFN-y) cytokines. In summary, mucosal vaccination with flaA:Ova showed strongest preventive effect. Stimulation with rflaA:Ova results in strong immune modulation mediated by enhanced uptake of the aggregated fusion protein, likely resulting in a different processing by DC as well as stronger TLR5 mediated cell activation. PMID:24516564

Prevention of intestinal allergy in mice by rflaA:Ova is associated with enforced antigen processing and TLR5-dependent IL-10 secretion by mDC.

PubMed

Schülke, Stefan; Wolfheimer, Sonja; Gadermaier, Gabriele; Wangorsch, Andrea; Siebeneicher, Susanne; Briza, Peter; Spreitzer, Ingo; Schiller, Dirk; Loeschner, Bettina; Uematsu, Satoshi; Ryffel, Bernard; Akira, Shizuo; Waibler, Zoe; Vieths, Stefan; Toda, Masako; Scheurer, Stephan

2014-01-01

Conjugated vaccines consisting of flagellin and antigen activate TLR5 and induce strong innate and adaptive immune responses. Objective of the present study was to gain further insight into the mechanisms by which flagellin fusion proteins mediate their immune modulating effects. In a mouse model of Ova-induced intestinal allergy a fusion protein of flagellin and Ova (rflaA:Ova) was used for intranasal and intraperitoneal vaccination. Aggregation status of flaA, Ova and flaA:Ova were compared by light scattering, uptake of fluorescence labeled proteins into mDC was analyzed, processing was investigated by microsomal digestion experiments. Mechanism of DC-activation was investigated using proteasome and inflammasome inhibitors. Immune responses of wildtype, IL-10(-/-), TLR5(-/-) mDCs and Ova-transgenic T cells were investigated. Mucosal and i.p.-application of rflaA:Ova were able to prevent allergic sensitization, suppress disease-related symptoms, prevent body weight loss and reduction in food uptake. Intranasal vaccination resulted in strongest suppression of Ova-specific IgE production. These protective effects were associated with increased aggregation of rflaA:Ova and accompanied by tenfold higher uptake rates into mDC compared to the mixture of both proteins. Microsomal digestion showed that stimulation with rflaA:Ova resulted in faster degradation and the generation of different peptides compared to rOva. rflaA:Ova-mediated activation of mDC could be suppressed in a dose-dependent manner by the application of both inflammasome and proteasome inhibitors. Using TLR5(-/-) mDC the rflaA:Ova induced IL-10 secretion was shown to be TLR5 dependent. In co-cultures of IL-10(-/-) mDC with DO11.10 T cells the lack of rflaA:Ova-mediated IL-10 secretion resulted in enhanced levels of both TH2 (IL-4, IL-5) and TH1 (IL-2 and IFN-y) cytokines. In summary, mucosal vaccination with flaA:Ova showed strongest preventive effect. Stimulation with rflaA:Ova results in strong immune modulation mediated by enhanced uptake of the aggregated fusion protein, likely resulting in a different processing by DC as well as stronger TLR5 mediated cell activation.

Overall Traveling-Wave-Tube Efficiency Improved By Optimized Multistage Depressed Collector Design

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vaden, Karl R.

2002-01-01

Depressed Collector Design The microwave traveling wave tube (TWT) is used widely for space communications and high-power airborne transmitting sources. One of the most important features in designing a TWT is overall efficiency. Yet, overall TWT efficiency is strongly dependent on the efficiency of the electron beam collector, particularly for high values of collector efficiency. For these reasons, the NASA Glenn Research Center developed an optimization algorithm based on simulated annealing to quickly design highly efficient multistage depressed collectors (MDC's). Simulated annealing is a strategy for solving highly nonlinear combinatorial optimization problems. Its major advantage over other methods is its ability to avoid becoming trapped in local minima. Simulated annealing is based on an analogy to statistical thermodynamics, specifically the physical process of annealing: heating a material to a temperature that permits many atomic rearrangements and then cooling it carefully and slowly, until it freezes into a strong, minimum-energy crystalline structure. This minimum energy crystal corresponds to the optimal solution of a mathematical optimization problem. The TWT used as a baseline for optimization was the 32-GHz, 10-W, helical TWT developed for the Cassini mission to Saturn. The method of collector analysis and design used was a 2-1/2-dimensional computational procedure that employs two types of codes, a large signal analysis code and an electron trajectory code. The large signal analysis code produces the spatial, energetic, and temporal distributions of the spent beam entering the MDC. An electron trajectory code uses the resultant data to perform the actual collector analysis. The MDC was optimized for maximum MDC efficiency and minimum final kinetic energy of all collected electrons (to reduce heat transfer). The preceding figure shows the geometric and electrical configuration of an optimized collector with an efficiency of 93.8 percent. The results show the improvement in collector efficiency from 89.7 to 93.8 percent, resulting in an increase of three overall efficiency points. In addition, the time to design a highly efficient MDC was reduced from a month to a few days. All work was done in-house at Glenn for the High Rate Data Delivery Program. Future plans include optimizing the MDC and TWT interaction circuit in tandem to further improve overall TWT efficiency.

Effects of Proton and Combined Proton and (56)Fe Radiation on the Hippocampus.

PubMed

Raber, Jacob; Allen, Antiño R; Sharma, Sourabh; Allen, Barrett; Rosi, Susanna; Olsen, Reid H J; Davis, Matthew J; Eiwaz, Massarra; Fike, John R; Nelson, Gregory A

2016-01-01

The space radiation environment contains protons and (56)Fe, which could pose a significant hazard to space flight crews during and after missions. The space environment involves complex radiation exposures, thus, the effects of a dose of protons might be modulated by a dose of heavy-ion radiation. The brain, and particularly the hippocampus, may be susceptible to space radiation-induced changes. In this study, we first determined the dose-response effect of proton radiation (150 MeV) on hippocampus-dependent cognition 1 and 3 months after exposure. Based on those results, we subsequently exposed mice to protons alone (150 MeV, 0.1 Gy), (56)Fe alone (600 MeV/n, 0.5 Gy) or combined proton and (56)Fe radiations (protons first) with the two exposures separated by 24 h. At one month postirradiation, all animal groups showed novel object recognition. However, at three months postirradiation, mice exposed to either protons or combined proton and (56)Fe radiations showed impaired novel object recognition, which was not observed in mice irradiated with (56)Fe alone. The mechanisms in these impairments might involve inflammation. In mice irradiated with protons alone or (56)Fe alone three months earlier, there was a negative correlation between a measure of novel object recognition and the number of newly born activated microglia in the dentate gyrus. Next, cytokine and chemokine levels were assessed in the hippocampus. At one month after exposure the levels of IL-12 were higher in mice exposed to combined radiations compared with sham-irradiated mice, while the levels of IFN-γ were lower in mice exposed to (56)Fe radiation alone or combined radiations. In addition, IL-4 levels were lower in (56)Fe-irradiated mice compared with proton-irradiated mice and TNF-α levels were lower in proton-irradiated mice than in mice receiving combined radiations. At three months after exposure, macrophage-derived chemokine (MDC) and eotaxin levels were lower in mice receiving combined radiations. The levels of MDC and eotaxin correlated and the levels of MDC, but not eotaxin, correlated with the percentage of newly born activated microglia in the blades of the dentate gyrus. Finally, hippocampal IL-6 levels were higher in mice receiving combined radiations compared with mice receiving (56)Fe radiation alone. These data demonstrate the sensitivity of novel object recognition for detecting cognitive injury three months after exposure to proton radiation alone, and combined exposure to proton and (56)Fe radiations, and that newly-born activated microglia and inflammation might be involved in this injury.

Performance of Clinical Criteria for Screening of Possible Antiretroviral Related Mitochondrial Toxicity in HIV-Infected Children in Accra.

PubMed

Langs-Barlow, Allison; Renner, Lorna; Katz, Karol; Northrup, Veronika; Paintsil, Elijah

2013-01-01

Mitochondrial damage is implicated in highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) toxicity. HIV infection also causes mitochondrial toxicity (MT). Differentiating between the two is critical for HIV management. Our objective was to test the utility of the Mitochondrial Disease Criteria (MDC) and the Enquête Périnatale Française (EPF) to screen for possible HAART related MT in HIV-infected children in Ghana. The EPF and MDC are compilations of clinical symptoms, or criteria, of MT: a (+) score indicates possible MT. We applied these criteria retrospectively to 403 charts of HIV-infected children. Of those studied, 331/403 received HAART. Comparing HAART exposed and HAART naïve children, the difference in EPF score, but not MDC, approached significance (P = 0.1). Young age at HIV diagnosis or at HAART initiation was associated with (+) EPF (P ≤ 0.01). Adherence to HAART trended toward an association with (+) EPF (P = 0.09). Exposure to nevirapine, abacavir, or didanosine increased risk of (+) EPF (OR = 3.55 (CI = 1.99-6.33), 4.76 (2.39-9.43), 4.93 (1.29-18.87)). Neither EPF nor MDC identified a significant difference between HAART exposed or naïve children regarding possible MT. However, as indicators of HAART exposure are associated with (+) EPF, it may be a candidate for prospective study of possible HAART related MT in resource-poor settings.

Improving bioelectricity generation and COD removal of sewage sludge in microbial desalination cell.

PubMed

Ebrahimi, Atieh; Yousefi Kebria, Daryoush; Darzi, Ghasem Najafpour

2018-05-01

Improving wastewater treatment process and water desalination are two important solutions for increasing the available supply of fresh water. Microbial desalination cells (MDCs) with common electrolytes display relatively low organic matter removal and high cost. In this study, sewage sludge was used as the substrate in the Microbial desalination cell (MDC) under three different initial salt concentrations (5, 20 and 35 g.L -1 ) and the maximum salt removal rates of 50.6%, 64% and 69.6% were obtained under batch condition, respectively. The MDC also produced the maximum power density of 47.1 W m -3 and the averaged chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal of 58.2 ± 0.89% when the initial COD was 6610 ± 83 mg L -1 . Employing treated sludge as catholyte enhanced COD removal and power density to 87.3% and 54.4 W m -3 , respectively, with counterbalancing pH variation in treated effluent. These promising results showed, for the first time, that the excess sewage sludge obtained from biological wastewater treatment plants could be successfully used as anolyte and catholyte in MDC, achieving organic matter biodegradation along with salt removal and energy production. In addition, using treated sludge as catholyte will improve the performance of MDC and introduce a more effective method for both sludge treatment and desalination.

Glycans coated silver nanoparticles induces autophagy and necrosis in HeLa cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Panzarini, Elisa; Mariano, Stefania; Dini, Luciana

2015-06-01

This study reports the induction of autophagy by two concentrations (2×103 or 2×104 NPs/cell) of 30 nm sized β-D-Glucose- and β-D-Glucose/Sucrose-coated silver NanoParticles (AgNPs-G and AgNPs-GS respectively) in HeLa cells treated for 6, 12, 24 and 48 hrs. Cell viability was assessed by Neutral Red (NR) test and morphological evaluation. In addition ROS generation (NBT test) and induction of apoptosis/necrosis (Annexin V/Propidium Iodide-Annexin V/PI staining) and autophagy (Monodansylcadaverine-MDC staining) were evaluated. Cytotoxicity, ROS generation and morphology changes depend on NPs type and amount, and incubation time. As a general result, AgNPs-G are more toxic than AgNPs-GS. Moreover, the lowest AgNPs-GS concentration is ineffective on cell viability and ROS generation. Only 10% and 25% of viable HeLa cells were found at the end of incubation time in the presence of higher amount of AgNPs - G and AgNPs-GS respectively and in parallel ROS generation is induced. To elucidate the type of cell death, Annexin V/PI and MDC staining was performed. Interestingly, irrespective of coating type and NPs amount the percentage of apoptotic cells (Annexin V+/PI-) is similar to viable HeLa cells. At contrary, we observed a NPs amount dependent autophagy and necrosis induction. In fact, the lower amount of NPs induces autophagy (MDC+/PI- cells) whereas the higher one induces necrosis (Annexin V+/PI+ cells). Our findings suggest that AgNPs-induced cytotoxicity depends on AgNPs amount and type and provide preliminary evidence of induction of autophagy in HeLa cells cultured in the presence of AgNPs.

Mortality from non‐malignant respiratory diseases among people with silicosis in Hong Kong: exposure–response analyses for exposure to silica dust

PubMed Central

Tse, L A; Yu, I T S; Leung, C C; Tam, W; Wong, T W

2007-01-01

Objectives To examine the exposure–response relationships between various indices of exposure to silica dust and the mortality from non‐malignant respiratory diseases (NMRDs) or chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPDs) among a cohort of workers with silicosis in Hong Kong. Methods The concentrations of respirable silica dust were assigned to each industry and job task according to historical industrial hygiene measurements documented previously in Hong Kong. Exposure indices included cumulative dust exposure (CDE) and mean dust concentration (MDC). Penalised smoothing spline models were used as a preliminary step to detect outliers and guide further analyses. Multiple Cox's proportional hazard models were used to estimate the dust effects on the risk of mortality from NMRDs or COPDs after truncating the highest exposures. Results 371 of the 853 (43.49%) deaths occurring among 2789 workers with silicosis during 1981–99 were from NMRDs, and 101 (27.22%) NMRDs were COPDs. Multiple Cox's proportional hazard models showed that CDE (p = 0.009) and MDC (p<0.001) were significantly associated only with NMRD mortality. Subgroup analysis showed that deaths from NMRDs (p<0.01) and COPDs (p<0.05) were significantly associated with both CDE and MDC among underground caisson workers and among those ever employed in other occupations with high exposure to silica dust. No exposure–response relationship was observed for surface construction workers with low exposures. A clear upward trend for both NMRDs and COPDs mortality was found with increasing severity of radiological silicosis. Conclusion This study documented an exposure–response relationship between exposure to silica dust and the risk of death from NMRDs or COPDs among workers with silicosis, except for surface construction workers with low exposures. The risk of mortality from NMRDs increased significantly with the progression of International Labor Organization categories, independent of dust effects. PMID:16973737

Climate gentrification: from theory to empiricism in Miami-Dade County, Florida

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Keenan, Jesse M.; Hill, Thomas; Gumber, Anurag

2018-05-01

This article provides a conceptual model for the pathways by which climate change could operate to impact geographies and property markets whose inferior or superior qualities for supporting the built environment are subject to a descriptive theory known as ‘Climate Gentrification.’ The article utilizes Miami-Dade County, Florida (MDC) as a case study to explore the market mechanisms that speak to the operations and processes inherent in the theory. This article tests the hypothesis that the rate of price appreciation of single-family properties in MDC is positively related to and correlated with incremental measures of higher elevation (the ‘Elevation Hypothesis’). As a reflection of an increase in observed nuisance flooding and relative SLR, the second hypothesis is that the rates of price appreciation in lowest the elevation cohorts have not kept up with the rates of appreciation of higher elevation cohorts since approximately 2000 (the ‘Nuisance Hypothesis’). The findings support a validation of both hypotheses and suggest the potential existence of consumer preferences that are based, in part, on perceptions of flood risk and/or observations of flooding. These preferences and perceptions are anticipated to be amplified by climate change in a manner that reinforces the proposition that climate change impacts will affect the marketability and valuation of property with varying degrees of environmental exposure and resilience functionality. Uncovering these empirical relationships is a critical first step for understanding the occurrence and parameters of Climate Gentrification.

A Novel Multimode Waveguide Coupler for Accurate Power Measurement of Traveling Wave Tube Harmonic Frequencies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wintucky, Edwin G.; Simons, Rainee N.

2014-01-01

This paper presents the design, fabrication and test results for a novel waveguide multimode directional coupler (MDC). The coupler fabricated from two dissimilar waveguides is capable of isolating the power at the second harmonic frequency from the fundamental power at the output port of a traveling-wave tube (TWT). In addition to accurate power measurements at harmonic frequencies, a potential application of the MDC is in the design of a beacon source for atmospheric propagation studies at millimeter-wave frequencies.

A high-efficiency 59- to 64-GHz TWT for intersatellite communications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wilson, Jeffrey D.; Ramins, Peter; Force, Dale A.; Limburg, Helen C.; Tammaru, Ivo

1991-01-01

The design of a 75-W, 59- to 64- GHz TWT with a predicted overall efficiency in excess of 40 percent is described. This intersatellite communications TWT, designated Model 961HA, employs a coupled-cavity slow-wave structure with a two-step velocity taper and an isotropic graphite multistage depressed collector (MDC). Because the RF efficiency of this TWT is less than 8 percent, an MDC design providing a very high collector efficiency was necessary to achieve the overall efficiency goal of 40 percent.

Long-term performance and characterization of microbial desalination cells in treating domestic wastewater.

PubMed

Luo, Haiping; Xu, Pei; Ren, Zhiyong

2012-09-01

Microbial desalination cell represents a new technology for simultaneous wastewater treatment, water desalination, and energy production. This study characterized the long-term performance of MDC during wastewater treatment and identified the key factors that caused performance decline. The 8-month operation shows that MDC performance decreased over time, as indicated by a 47% decline in current density, a 46% drop in Columbic efficiency, and a 27% decrease in desalination efficiency. Advanced electrochemical, microscopy, and spectroscopy analyses all confirmed biofouling on the anion exchange membrane, which increased system resistance and reduced ionic transfer and energy conversion efficiency. Minor chemical scaling was found on the cation exchange membrane surface. Microbial communities became less diverse at the end of operation, and Proteobacteria spp. was dominant on both anode and AEM fouling layer surface. These results provide insights into the viability of long-term MDC operation on reactor performance and direct system development through membrane optimization. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Coding and transmission of subband coded images on the Internet

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wah, Benjamin W.; Su, Xiao

2001-09-01

Subband-coded images can be transmitted in the Internet using either the TCP or the UDP protocol. Delivery by TCP gives superior decoding quality but with very long delays when the network is unreliable, whereas delivery by UDP has negligible delays but with degraded quality when packets are lost. Although images are delivered currently over the Internet by TCP, we study in this paper the use of UDP to deliver multi-description reconstruction-based subband-coded images. First, in order to facilitate recovery from UDP packet losses, we propose a joint sender-receiver approach for designing optimized reconstruction-based subband transform (ORB-ST) in multi-description coding (MDC). Second, we carefully evaluate the delay-quality trade-offs between the TCP delivery of SDC images and the UDP and combined TCP/UDP delivery of MDC images. Experimental results show that our proposed ORB-ST performs well in real Internet tests, and UDP and combined TCP/UDP delivery of MDC images provide a range of attractive alternatives to TCP delivery.

Enhancing forward osmosis water recovery from landfill leachate by desalinating brine and recovering ammonia in a microbial desalination cell.

PubMed

Iskander, Syeed Md; Novak, John T; He, Zhen

2018-05-01

In this work, a microbial desalination cell (MDC) was employed to desalinate the FO treated leachate for reduction of both salinity and chemical oxygen demand (COD). The FO recovered 51.5% water from a raw leachate and the recovery increased to 83.5% from the concentrated leachate after desalination in the MDC fed with either acetate or another leachate as an electron source and at a different hydraulic retention time (HRT). Easily-degraded substrate like acetate and a long HRT resulted in a low conductivity desalinated effluent. Ammonia was also recovered in the MDC cathode with a recovery efficiency varying from 11 to 64%, affected by current generation and HRT. Significant COD reduction, as high as 65.4%, was observed in the desalination chamber and attributed to the decrease of both organic and inorganic compounds via diffusion and electricity-driven movement. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Revamping AK-Ashland gas cleaning system

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

Brandes, H.; Koerbel, R.; Haberkamp, K.

1995-07-01

AK Steel`s (formerly Armco) BOF shop was using a static precipitator for the primary collection. The system was designed for full combustion in the gas collecting hoods. No secondary dust collection was in place. A detailed study on alternative solutions led to a completely different system in 1990, and an order was awarded to Mannesmann Demag Corp. (MDC) in Dec. 1990. The new gas collection system is using suppressed combustion with the capability to collect Co at a later stage. The gas cleaning uses the Mannesmann Demag Baumco scrubber with a venturi throat for gas flow control. All auxiliary components,more » water treatment plant, electric substations and sludge handling were designed and supplied by MDC. The secondary dust collection covers the hot metal and scrap charging into the BOF`s, reladling, desulfurization and deslagging by a pulse jet baghouse. All emission limits set by the EPA and guaranteed by MDC have been met by the systems installed.« less

Bioremediation of steel plant wastewater and enhanced electricity generation in microbial desalination cell.

PubMed

Shinde, Omkar A; Bansal, Ankita; Banerjee, Angela; Sarkar, Supriya

2018-05-01

Microbial desalination cell (MDC) is a propitious technology towards water desalination by utilizing wastewater as an energy source. In this study, a multi-chambered MDC was used to bioremediate steel plant wastewater using the same wastewater as a fuel for anodic bacteria. A pure culture of Pseudomonas putida MTCC 1194 was isolated and inoculated to remove toxic phenol. Three different inoculum conditions, namely P. putida (INC-A), a mixture of P. putida and activated sludge (INC-B), and activated sludge alone (INC-C) were employed in an anodic chamber to mainly compare the electricity generation and phenol degradation in MDCs. The study revealed the maximum phenol removal of 82 ± 2.4%, total dissolved solids (TDS) removal of 68 ± 1.5%, and power generation of 10.2 mW/m 2 using INC-B. The synergistic interactions between microorganisms, can enhance the toxic phenol degradation and also electricity generation in MDC for onsite wastewater application.

An energy-efficient and secure hybrid algorithm for wireless sensor networks using a mobile data collector

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dayananda, Karanam Ravichandran; Straub, Jeremy

2017-05-01

This paper proposes a new hybrid algorithm for security, which incorporates both distributed and hierarchal approaches. It uses a mobile data collector (MDC) to collect information in order to save energy of sensor nodes in a wireless sensor network (WSN) as, in most networks, these sensor nodes have limited energy. Wireless sensor networks are prone to security problems because, among other things, it is possible to use a rogue sensor node to eavesdrop on or alter the information being transmitted. To prevent this, this paper introduces a security algorithm for MDC-based WSNs. A key use of this algorithm is to protect the confidentiality of the information sent by the sensor nodes. The sensor nodes are deployed in a random fashion and form group structures called clusters. Each cluster has a cluster head. The cluster head collects data from the other nodes using the time-division multiple access protocol. The sensor nodes send their data to the cluster head for transmission to the base station node for further processing. The MDC acts as an intermediate node between the cluster head and base station. The MDC, using its dynamic acyclic graph path, collects the data from the cluster head and sends it to base station. This approach is useful for applications including warfighting, intelligent building and medicine. To assess the proposed system, the paper presents a comparison of its performance with other approaches and algorithms that can be used for similar purposes.

Performance of Clinical Criteria for Screening of Possible Antiretroviral Related Mitochondrial Toxicity in HIV-Infected Children in Accra

PubMed Central

Katz, Karol; Northrup, Veronika

2013-01-01

Mitochondrial damage is implicated in highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) toxicity. HIV infection also causes mitochondrial toxicity (MT). Differentiating between the two is critical for HIV management. Our objective was to test the utility of the Mitochondrial Disease Criteria (MDC) and the Enquête Périnatale Française (EPF) to screen for possible HAART related MT in HIV-infected children in Ghana. The EPF and MDC are compilations of clinical symptoms, or criteria, of MT: a (+) score indicates possible MT. We applied these criteria retrospectively to 403 charts of HIV-infected children. Of those studied, 331/403 received HAART. Comparing HAART exposed and HAART naïve children, the difference in EPF score, but not MDC, approached significance (P = 0.1). Young age at HIV diagnosis or at HAART initiation was associated with (+) EPF (P ≤ 0.01). Adherence to HAART trended toward an association with (+) EPF (P = 0.09). Exposure to nevirapine, abacavir, or didanosine increased risk of (+) EPF (OR = 3.55 (CI = 1.99–6.33), 4.76 (2.39–9.43), 4.93 (1.29–18.87)). Neither EPF nor MDC identified a significant difference between HAART exposed or naïve children regarding possible MT. However, as indicators of HAART exposure are associated with (+) EPF, it may be a candidate for prospective study of possible HAART related MT in resource-poor settings. PMID:23533730

Secondary electron emission characteristics of ion-textured copper and high-purity isotropic graphite surfaces

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Curren, A. N.; Jensen, K. A.

1984-01-01

Experimentally determined values of true secondary electron emission and relative values of reflected primary electron yield for untreated and ion textured oxygen free high conductivity copper and untreated and ion textured high purity isotropic graphite surfaces are presented for a range of primary electron beam energies and beam impingement angles. This investigation was conducted to provide information that would improve the efficiency of multistage depressed collectors (MDC's) for microwave amplifier traveling wave tubes in space communications and aircraft applications. For high efficiency, MDC electrode surfaces must have low secondary electron emission characteristics. Although copper is a commonly used material for MDC electrodes, it exhibits relatively high levels of secondary electron emission if its surface is not treated for emission control. Recent studies demonstrated that high purity isotropic graphite is a promising material for MDC electrodes, particularly with ion textured surfaces. The materials were tested at primary electron beam energies of 200 to 2000 eV and at direct (0 deg) to near grazing (85 deg) beam impingement angles. True secondary electron emission and relative reflected primary electron yield characteristics of the ion textured surfaces were compared with each other and with those of untreated surfaces of the same materials. Both the untreated and ion textured graphite surfaces and the ion treated copper surface exhibited sharply reduced secondary electron emission characteristics relative to those of untreated copper. The ion treated graphite surface yielded the lowest emission levels.

Quantitative Proteomic Analysis Reveals Metabolic Alterations, Calcium Dysregulation, and Increased Expression of Extracellular Matrix Proteins in Laminin α2 Chain–deficient Muscle*

PubMed Central

de Oliveira, Bruno Menezes; Matsumura, Cintia Y.; Fontes-Oliveira, Cibely C.; Gawlik, Kinga I.; Acosta, Helena; Wernhoff, Patrik; Durbeej, Madeleine

2014-01-01

Congenital muscular dystrophy with laminin α2 chain deficiency (MDC1A) is one of the most severe forms of muscular disease and is characterized by severe muscle weakness and delayed motor milestones. The genetic basis of MDC1A is well known, yet the secondary mechanisms ultimately leading to muscle degeneration and subsequent connective tissue infiltration are not fully understood. In order to obtain new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying MDC1A, we performed a comparative proteomic analysis of affected muscles (diaphragm and gastrocnemius) from laminin α2 chain–deficient dy3K/dy3K mice, using multidimensional protein identification technology combined with tandem mass tags. Out of the approximately 700 identified proteins, 113 and 101 proteins, respectively, were differentially expressed in the diseased gastrocnemius and diaphragm muscles compared with normal muscles. A large portion of these proteins are involved in different metabolic processes, bind calcium, or are expressed in the extracellular matrix. Our findings suggest that metabolic alterations and calcium dysregulation could be novel mechanisms that underlie MDC1A and might be targets that should be explored for therapy. Also, detailed knowledge of the composition of fibrotic tissue, rich in extracellular matrix proteins, in laminin α2 chain–deficient muscle might help in the design of future anti-fibrotic treatments. All MS data have been deposited in the ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD000978 (http://proteomecentral.proteomexchange.org/dataset/PXD000978). PMID:24994560

Cutaneous myeloid dendritic cell dyscrasia: A cutaneous clonal monocytosis associated with chronic myeloproliferative disorders and peripheral blood monocytosis.

PubMed

Magro, Cynthia M; Momtahen, Shabnam; Verma, Shalini; Abraham, Ronnie M; Friedman, Constantin; Nuovo, Gerard J; Tam, Wayne

2016-12-01

Monocytes are critical components of the innate immune system and they can differentiate into dendritic cells (DCs). Cutaneous neoplasms of dendritic cell origin are uncommon and mostly represented by histiocytic lesions derived primarily from Langerhans cells. The myeloid DC (mDC) while recognized in the immunology literature does not have a well-defined neoplastic cutaneous counterpart. Eleven patients with a diagnosis of cutaneous mDC dyscrasia were evaluated. Routine hematoxylin and eosin stain were performed followed by selective phenotypic studies. The patients were older without a gender predilection and exhibited an asymptomatic papular skin rash with a waxing and waning course. The biopsies demonstrated a dermal based monomorphic small mononuclear cell infiltrate. The cells expressed CD14, CD11c, HLA-DR, as well as granzyme and lysozyme that defines terminally differentiated monocyte/dendritic cells. Expression of BDCA-3 (CD141) by the tumor cells indicated that they were myeloid dendritic cells (mDC2). Each patient had a prior or subsequent diagnosis of an abnormal bone marrow biopsy that included myelodysplastic syndrome, myelofibrosis, chronic myelomonocytic leukemia, and acute myelogenous leukemia. We propose the term cutaneous mDC cell dyscrasia for distinctive infiltrates of differentiated mDCs reflective of underlying myeloproliferative disease. The clinical course is variable and can be indolent although it is strongly correlated with myelodysplastic syndrome that included leukemia. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Species tree inference by minimizing deep coalescences.

PubMed

Than, Cuong; Nakhleh, Luay

2009-09-01

In a 1997 seminal paper, W. Maddison proposed minimizing deep coalescences, or MDC, as an optimization criterion for inferring the species tree from a set of incongruent gene trees, assuming the incongruence is exclusively due to lineage sorting. In a subsequent paper, Maddison and Knowles provided and implemented a search heuristic for optimizing the MDC criterion, given a set of gene trees. However, the heuristic is not guaranteed to compute optimal solutions, and its hill-climbing search makes it slow in practice. In this paper, we provide two exact solutions to the problem of inferring the species tree from a set of gene trees under the MDC criterion. In other words, our solutions are guaranteed to find the tree that minimizes the total number of deep coalescences from a set of gene trees. One solution is based on a novel integer linear programming (ILP) formulation, and another is based on a simple dynamic programming (DP) approach. Powerful ILP solvers, such as CPLEX, make the first solution appealing, particularly for very large-scale instances of the problem, whereas the DP-based solution eliminates dependence on proprietary tools, and its simplicity makes it easy to integrate with other genomic events that may cause gene tree incongruence. Using the exact solutions, we analyze a data set of 106 loci from eight yeast species, a data set of 268 loci from eight Apicomplexan species, and several simulated data sets. We show that the MDC criterion provides very accurate estimates of the species tree topologies, and that our solutions are very fast, thus allowing for the accurate analysis of genome-scale data sets. Further, the efficiency of the solutions allow for quick exploration of sub-optimal solutions, which is important for a parsimony-based criterion such as MDC, as we show. We show that searching for the species tree in the compatibility graph of the clusters induced by the gene trees may be sufficient in practice, a finding that helps ameliorate the computational requirements of optimization solutions. Further, we study the statistical consistency and convergence rate of the MDC criterion, as well as its optimality in inferring the species tree. Finally, we show how our solutions can be used to identify potential horizontal gene transfer events that may have caused some of the incongruence in the data, thus augmenting Maddison's original framework. We have implemented our solutions in the PhyloNet software package, which is freely available at: http://bioinfo.cs.rice.edu/phylonet.

Psychometric and Clinimetric Properties of the Melbourne Assessment 2 in Children With Cerebral Palsy.

PubMed

Wang, Tien-Ni; Liang, Kai-Jie; Liu, Yi-Chia; Shieh, Jeng-Yi; Chen, Hao-Ling

2017-09-01

To examine the psychometric and clinimetric properties of the Melbourne Assessment 2 (MA2), an outcome measurement that is increasingly used in clinical studies. Psychometric and clinimetric study. Community. Seventeen children with cerebral palsy (CP) from 5 to 12 years were recruited for the estimation of the test-retest reliability and minimal detectable change (MDC). Thirty-five children with CP were recruited to receive an 8-week intensive neurorehabilitation intervention to estimate the validity, responsiveness, and minimal clinically important difference (MCID). Thirty-five children with CP received upper limb neurorehabilitation programs for 8 weeks. The MA2 and the criterion measures, including the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency, 2nd edition (BOT-2), the Box and Blocks Test (BBT), and the Pediatric Motor Activity Log-Revised (PMAL-R), were evaluated at pretreatment and posttreatment. The MA2 has 4 subscales: range of motion, fluency, accuracy, and dexterity. The test-retest reliability of the MA2 is high (intraclass correlation coefficient, .92-.98). The significant relationships between the MA2 and BBT, BOT-2, and PMAL-R support its validity. The significance of paired t test results (P<.001) and large magnitudes of the standardized response mean (1.70-2.00) confirm the responsiveness of the MA2. The MDC values of the 4 subscales of the MA2 are 2.85, 1.63, 1.97, and 1.84, respectively, and the suggested MCID values of these 4 subscales are 2.35, 3.20, 2.09, and 2.22, respectively, indicating the minimum scores of improvement to be interpreted as both statistically significant and clinically important. The study findings indicate that the MA2 has sound psychometric and clinimetric properties and is thus an adequate measurement for research and clinical applications. Copyright © 2017 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The psychometric properties of an Arabic numeric pain rating scale for measuring osteoarthritis knee pain.

PubMed

Alghadir, Ahmad H; Anwer, Shahnawaz; Iqbal, Zaheen Ahmed

2016-12-01

The aims of this study were to translate the numeric rating scale (NRS) into Arabic and to evaluate the test-retest reliability and convergent validity of an Arabic Numeric Pain Rating Scale (ANPRS) for measuring pain in osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee. The English version of the NRS was translated into Arabic as per the translation process guidelines for patient-rated outcome scales. One hundred twenty-one consecutive patients with OA of the knee who had experienced pain for more than 6 months were asked to report their pain levels on the ANPRS, visual analogue scale (VAS), and verbal rating scale (VRS). A second assessment was performed 48 h after the first to assess test-retest reliability. The test-retest reliability was calculated using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC2,1). The convergent validity was assessed using Spearman rank correlation coefficient. In addition, the minimum detectable change (MDC) and standard error of measurement (SEM) were also assessed. The repeatability of ANPRS was good to excellent (ICC 0.89). The SEM and MDC were 0.71 and 1.96, respectively. Significant correlations were found with the VAS and VRS scores (p <0.01). The Arabic numeric pain rating scale is a valid and reliable scale for measuring pain levels in OA of the knee. Implications for Rehabilitation The Arabic Numeric Pain Rating Scale (ANPRS) is a reliable and valid instrument for measuring pain in osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee, with psychometric properties in agreement with other widely used scales. The ANPRS is well correlated with the VAS and NRS scores in patients with OA of the knee. The ANPRS appears to measure pain intensity similar to the VAS, NRS, and VRS and may provide additional advantages to Arab populations, as Arabic numbers are easily understood by this population.

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

Reliability and construct validity of the Spanish version of the 6-item CTS symptoms scale for outcomes assessment in carpal tunnel syndrome.

PubMed

Rosales, Roberto S; Martin-Hidalgo, Yolanda; Reboso-Morales, Luis; Atroshi, Isam

2016-03-03

The purpose of this study was to assess the reliability and construct validity of the Spanish version of the 6-item carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) symptoms scale (CTS-6). In this cross-sectional study 40 patients diagnosed with CTS based on clinical and neurophysiologic criteria, completed the standard Spanish versions of the CTS-6 and the disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (QuickDASH) scales on two occasions with a 1-week interval. Internal-consistency reliability was assessed with the Cronbach alpha coefficient and test-retest reliability with the intraclass correlation coefficient, two way random effect model and absolute agreement definition (ICC2,1). Cross-sectional precision was analyzed with the Standard Error of the Measurement (SEM). Longitudinal precision for test-retest reliability coefficient was assessed with the Standard Error of the Measurement difference (SEMdiff) and the Minimal Detectable Change at 95 % confidence level (MDC95). For assessing construct validity it was hypothesized that the CTS-6 would have a strong positive correlation with the QuickDASH, analyzed with the Pearson correlation coefficient (r). The standard Spanish version of the CTS-6 presented a Cronbach alpha of 0.81 with a SEM of 0.3. Test-retest reliability showed an ICC of 0.85 with a SRMdiff of 0.36 and a MDC95 of 0.7. The correlation between CTS-6 and the QuickDASH was concordant with the a priori formulated construct hypothesis (r 0.69) CONCLUSIONS: The standard Spanish version of the 6-item CTS symptoms scale showed good internal consistency, test-retest reliability and construct validity for outcomes assessment in CTS. The CTS-6 will be useful to clinicians and researchers in Spanish speaking parts of the world. The use of standardized outcome measures across countries also will facilitate comparison of research results in carpal tunnel syndrome.

Repeatability of Central and Peripheral Pulse Wave Velocity Measures: The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study

PubMed Central

Tanaka, Hirofumi; Palta, Priya; Patel, Mehul D.; Camplain, Ricky; Couper, David; Cheng, Susan; Al Qunaibet, Ada; Poon, Anna K.; Heiss, Gerardo

2016-01-01

BACKGROUND Arterial stiffness measures are emerging tools for risk assessment and stratification for hypertension and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV) is an established measure of central arterial stiffness. Other measures of PWV include femoral-ankle (faPWV), a measure of peripheral stiffness, and brachial-ankle PWV (baPWV), a composite measure of central and peripheral stiffness. Repeatability of central, peripheral, and composite PWV measures has not been adequately examined or compared. METHODS Participants (n = 79; mean age 75.7 years; USA) from a repeatability study nested within the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study visit 5 (2011–2013) underwent 2 standardized visits, 4–8 weeks apart. Trained technicians obtained 2 PWV measurements at each visit using the VP-1000 Plus system. We calculated the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), SE of measurement, and minimal detectable change (MDC95; 95% confidence interval) and difference (MDD). RESULTS The ICCs and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were 0.70 (0.59, 0.81) for cfPWV, 0.84 (0.78, 0.90) for baPWV, and 0.69 (0.59, 0.79) for faPWV. The MDC95 between repeat measures within an individual was 411.0cm/s for cfPWV, 370.6cm/s for baPWV, and 301.4cm/s for faPWV. The MDD for 2 independent samples of 100 per group was 139.3cm/s for cfPWV, 172.3cm/s for baPWV, and 100.4cm/s for faPWV. CONCLUSIONS Repeatability was acceptable for all PWV measures in a multicenter, population-based study of older adults and supports its use in epidemiologic studies. Quantifying PWV measurement variation is critical for applications to risk assessment and stratification and eventual translation to clinical practice. PMID:26232036

Reliability and validation of the Dutch Achilles tendon Total Rupture Score.

PubMed

Opdam, K T M; Zwiers, R; Wiegerinck, J I; Kleipool, A E B; Haverlag, R; Goslings, J C; van Dijk, C N

2018-03-01

Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) have become a cornerstone for the evaluation of the effectiveness of treatment. The Achilles tendon Total Rupture Score (ATRS) is a PROM for outcome and assessment of an Achilles tendon rupture. The aim of this study was to translate the ATRS to Dutch and evaluate its reliability and validity in the Dutch population. A forward-backward translation procedure was performed according to the guidelines of cross-cultural adaptation process. The Dutch ATRS was evaluated for reliability and validity in patients treated for a total Achilles tendon rupture from 1 January 2012 to 31 December 2014 in one teaching hospital and one academic hospital. Reliability was assessed by the intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), Cronbach's alpha and minimal detectable change (MDC). We assessed construct validity by calculation of Spearman's rho correlation coefficient with domains of the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS), Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment-Achilles questionnaire (VISA-A) and Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) for pain in rest and during running. The Dutch ATRS had a good test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.852) and a high internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.96). MDC was 30.2 at individual level and 3.5 at group level. Construct validity was supported by 75 % of the hypothesized correlations. The Dutch ATRS had a strong correlation with NRS for pain during running (r = -0.746) and all the five subscales of the Dutch FAOS (r = 0.724-0.867). There was a moderate correlation with the VISA-A-NL (r = 0.691) and NRS for pain in rest (r = -0.580). The Dutch ATRS shows an adequate reliability and validity and can be used in the Dutch population for measuring the outcome of treatment of a total Achilles tendon rupture and for research purposes. Diagnostic study, Level I.

Cross-cultural adaptation, reliability and validity of the Turkish version of the Lower Limb Functional Index.

PubMed

Duruturk, Neslihan; Tonga, Eda; Gabel, Charles Philip; Acar, Manolya; Tekindal, Agah

2015-07-26

This study aims to adapt culturally a Turkish version of the Lower Limb Functional Index (LLFI) and to determine its validity, reliability, internal consistency, measurement sensitivity and factor structure in lower limb problems. The LLFI was translated into Turkish and cross-culturally adapted with a double forward-backward protocol that determined face and content validity. Individuals (n = 120) with lower limb musculoskeletal disorders completed the LLFI and Short Form-36 questionnaires and the Timed Up and Go physical test. The psychometric properties were evaluated for the all participants from patient-reported outcome measures made at baseline and repeated at day 3 to determine criterion between scores (Pearson's r), internal consistency (Cronbachs α) and test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient - ICC 2.1 ). Error was determined using standard error of the measurement (SEM) and minimal detectable change at the 90% level (MDC 90 ), while factor structure was determined using exploratory factor analysis with maximum likelihood extraction and Varimax rotation. The psychometric characteristics showed strong criterion validity (r = 0.74-0.76), high internal consistency (α = 0.82) and high test-retest reability (ICC 2.1  = 0.97). The SEM of 3.2% gave an MDC 90  = 5.8%. The factor structure was uni-dimensional. Turkish version of LLFI was found to be valid and reliable for the measurement of lower limb function in a Turkish population. Implications for Rehabilitation Lower extremity musculoskeletal disorders are common and greatly impact activities among the affected individuals pertaining to daily living, work, leisure and quality of life. Patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures have advantages as they are practical, cost-effective and clinically convenient for use in patient-centered care. The Lower Limb Functional Index is a recently validated PRO measure shown to have strong clinimetric properties.

Gyrotron multistage depressed collector based on E × B drift concept using azimuthal electric field. I. Basic design

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Chuanren; Pagonakis, Ioannis Gr.; Avramidis, Konstantinos A.; Gantenbein, Gerd; Illy, Stefan; Thumm, Manfred; Jelonnek, John

2018-03-01

Multistage Depressed Collectors (MDCs) are widely used in vacuum tubes to regain energy from the depleted electron beam. However, the design of an MDC for gyrotrons, especially for those deployed in fusion experiments and future power plants, is not trivial. Since gyrotrons require relatively high magnetic fields, their hollow annular electron beam is magnetically confined in the collector. In such a moderate magnetic field, the MDC concept based on E × B drift is very promising. Several concrete design approaches based on the E × B concept have been proposed. This paper presents a realizable design of a two-stage depressed collector based on the E × B concept. A collector efficiency of 77% is achievable, which will be able to increase the total gyrotron efficiency from currently 50% to more than 60%. Secondary electrons reduce the efficiency only by 1%. Moreover, the collector efficiency is resilient to the change of beam current (i.e., space charge repulsion) and beam misalignment as well as magnetic field perturbations. Therefore, compared to other E × B conceptual designs, this design approach is promising and fairly feasible.

Minimal detectable change of the actual amount of use test and the motor activity log: the EXCITE Trial.

PubMed

Chen, Shuya; Wolf, Steven L; Zhang, Qin; Thompson, Paul A; Winstein, Carolee J

2012-06-01

Efficacy of task-oriented training can be reliably trusted only when the inherent measurement variability is determined. The Actual Amount of Use Test (AAUT) and the Motor Activity Log (MAL) have been used together as measures of spontaneous arm use after an intervention; however, the minimal detectable change (MDC) of AAUT and MAL has not been addressed. To compare the MDC₉₀ of the AAUT and the MAL in the context of a randomized controlled trial of a neurorehabilitation intervention, the Extremity Constraint-Induced Therapy Evaluation trial. A preplanned secondary analysis was conducted using pre-post test data from the control group. Estimated MDC₉₀ were normalized to the maximum value of the scale of the AAUT and the MAL for each subscale: amount of use (AAUTa, MALa) and quality of movement (AAUTq, MALq). . The MDC₉₀ of the AAUTq and the MALq were 14.4% and 15.4%, respectively. However, the MDC₉₀ required greater change for the AAUTa (24.2%) than the MALa (16.8%). The training-induced spontaneous arm use exceeded the MDC₉₀ for the MAL but fell below that for the AAUT immediately after the intervention and at 1-year follow-up visit. The greater variability and insensitivity to treatment effect for the AAUTa is likely because of the low resolution of its scoring system. As such, there is a considerable need to develop valid and reliable tools that capture purposeful arm use outside the laboratory, perhaps through leveraging new sensing technologies with objective activity monitoring.

Textured carbon on copper: A novel surface with extremely low secondary electron emission characteristics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Curren, A. N.; Jensen, K. A.

1985-01-01

Experimentally determined values of true secondary electron emission and relative values of reflected primary electron yield for a range of primary electron beam energies and beam impingement angles are presented for a series of novel textured carbon surfaces on copper substrates. (All copper surfaces used in this study were oxygen-free, high-conductivity grade). The purpose of this investigation is to provide information necessary to develop high-efficiency multistage depressed collectors (MDC's) for microwave amplifier traveling-wave tubes (TWT's) for communications and aircraft applications. To attain the highest TWT signal quality and overall efficiency, the MDC electrode surface must have low secondary electron emission characteristics. While copper is the material most commonly used for MDC electrodes, it exhibits relatively high levels of secondary electron emission unless its surface is treated for emission control. The textured carbon surface on copper substrate described in this report is a particularly promising candidate for the MDC electrode application. Samples of textured carbon surfaces on copper substrates typical of three different levels of treatment are prepared and tested for this study. The materials are tested at primary electron beam energies of 200 to 2000 eV and at direct (0 deg) to near-grazing (85 deg) beam impingement angles. True secondary electron emission and relative reflected primary electron yield characteristics of the textured surfaces are compared with each other and with those of untreated copper. All the textured carbon surfaces on copper substrate tested exhibited sharply lower secondary electron emission characteristics than those of an untreated copper surface.

The cellular Mre11 protein interferes with adenovirus E4 mutant DNA replication.

PubMed

Mathew, Shomita S; Bridge, Eileen

2007-09-01

Adenovirus type 5 (Ad5) relocalizes and degrades the host DNA repair protein Mre11, and efficiently initiates viral DNA replication. Mre11 associates with Ad E4 mutant DNA replication centers and is important for concatenating viral genomes. We have investigated the role of Mre11 in the E4 mutant DNA replication defect. RNAi-mediated knockdown of Mre11 dramatically rescues E4 mutant DNA replication in cells that do or do not concatenate viral genomes, suggesting that Mre11 inhibits DNA replication independent of genome concatenation. The mediator of DNA damage checkpoint 1 (Mdc1) protein is involved in recruiting and sustaining Mre11 at sites of DNA damage following ionizing radiation. We observe foci formation by Mdc1 in response to viral infection, indicating that this damage response protein is activated. However, knockdown of Mdc1 does not prevent Mre11 from localizing at viral DNA replication foci or rescue E4 mutant DNA replication. Our results are consistent with a model in which Mre11 interferes with DNA replication when it is localized at viral DNA replication foci.

Reliability and Validity of Computerized Force Platform Measures of Balance Function in Healthy Older Adults.

PubMed

Harro, Cathy C; Garascia, Chelsea

2018-01-10

Postural control declines with aging and is an independent risk factor for falls in older adults. Objective examination of balance function is warranted to direct fall prevention strategies. Force platform (FP) systems provide quantitative measures of postural control and analysis of different aspects of balance. The purpose of this study was to examine the reliability and validity of FP measures in healthy older adults. This study enrolled 46 healthy elderly adults, mean age 67.67 (5.1) years, who had no history of falls. They were assessed on 3 standardized tests on the NeuroCom Equitest FP system: limits of stability (LOS), motor control test (MCT), and sensory organization test (SOT). The test battery was administered twice within a 10-day period for test-retest reliability; intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), standard error of measurement (SEM), and minimal detectable change based on a 95% confidence interval (MDC95) were calculated. FP measures were compared with criterion clinical balance (Mini-BESTest and Functional Gait Assessment) and gait (10-m walk and 6-minute walk) measures to examine concurrent validity using Pearson correlation coefficients. Multiple linear regression analysis examined whether age and activity level were associated with FP performance. The α level was set at P < .05. SOT composite equilibrium scores, MCT average latency, and LOS end point excursion measures all demonstrated excellent test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.90, 0.85, and 0.77, respectively), whereas moderate to good reliability was found for SOT vestibular ratio score (ICC = 0.71). There was large variability in performance in this healthy elderly cohort, resulting in relatively large MDC95 for these measures, especially for the LOS test. Fair correlations were found between LOS end point excursion and clinical balance and gait measures (r = 0.31-0.49), and between MCT average latency and gait measures only (r = -0.32). No correlations were found between SOT measures and clinical balance and gait measures. Age was only marginally significantly (P = .055) associated with LOS end point excursion but was not associated with SOT or MCT measures, and activity level was not associated with any of the FP measures. FP measures provided reliable information on balance function in healthy older adults; however, small learning effects were evident, particularly for the SOT. The SEM and MDC95 for the LOS and SOT measures were relatively large for this healthy elderly cohort. A relationship between FP measures, which assess underlying balance mechanisms, and clinical balance and gait measures was not strongly supported in this study. Further research is needed to justify the value of adding FP measures to a test battery for balance assessment in older adults without a history of falls.

The Functional Arm Scale for Throwers (FAST)-Part II: Reliability and Validity of an Upper Extremity Region-Specific and Population-Specific Patient-Reported Outcome Scale for Throwing Athletes.

PubMed

Huxel Bliven, Kellie C; Snyder Valier, Alison R; Bay, R Curtis; Sauers, Eric L

2017-04-01

The Functional Arm Scale for Throwers (FAST) is an upper extremity (UE) region-specific and population-specific patient-reported outcome (PRO) scale developed to measure health-related quality of life in throwers with UE injuries. Stages I and II, described in a companion paper, of FAST development produced a 22-item scale and a 9-item pitcher module. Stage III of scale development, establishing reliability and validity of the FAST, is reported herein. To describe stage III of scale development: reliability and validity of the FAST. Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2. Data from throwing athletes collected over 5 studies were pooled to assess reliability and validity of the FAST. Reliability was estimated using FAST scores from 162 throwing athletes who were injured (n = 23) and uninjured (n = 139). Concurrent validity was estimated using FAST scores and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) and Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic (KJOC) scores from 106 healthy, uninjured throwing athletes. Known-groups validity was estimated using FAST scores from 557 throwing athletes who were injured (n = 142) and uninjured (n = 415). Reliability and validity were assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), and measurement error was assessed using standard error of measurement (SEM) and minimum detectable change (MDC). Receiver operating characteristic curves and sensitivity/specificity values were estimated for known-groups validity. Data from a separate group (n = 18) of postsurgical and nonoperative/conservative rehabilitation patients were analyzed to report responsiveness of the FAST. The FAST total, subscales, and pitcher module scores demonstrated excellent test-retest reliability (ICC, 0.91-0.98). The SEM 95 and MDC 95 for the FAST total score were 3.8 and 10.5 points, respectively. The SEM 95 and MDC 95 for the pitcher module score were 5.7 and 15.7 points, respectively. The FAST scores showed acceptable correlation with DASH (ICC, 0.49-0.82) and KJOC (ICC, 0.62-0.81) scores. The FAST total score classified 85.1% of players into the correct injury group. For predicting UE injury status, a FAST total cutoff score of 10.0 out of 100.0 was 91% sensitive and 75% specific, and a pitcher module score of 10.0 out of 100.0 was 87% sensitive and 78% specific. The FAST total score demonstrated responsiveness on several indices between intake and discharge time points. The FAST is a reliable, valid, and responsive UE region-specific and population-specific PRO scale for measuring patient-reported health care outcomes in throwing athletes with injury.

The Functional Arm Scale for Throwers (FAST)—Part II: Reliability and Validity of an Upper Extremity Region-Specific and Population-Specific Patient-Reported Outcome Scale for Throwing Athletes

PubMed Central

Huxel Bliven, Kellie C.; Snyder Valier, Alison R.; Bay, R. Curtis; Sauers, Eric L.

2017-01-01

Background: The Functional Arm Scale for Throwers (FAST) is an upper extremity (UE) region-specific and population-specific patient-reported outcome (PRO) scale developed to measure health-related quality of life in throwers with UE injuries. Stages I and II, described in a companion paper, of FAST development produced a 22-item scale and a 9-item pitcher module. Stage III of scale development, establishing reliability and validity of the FAST, is reported herein. Purpose: To describe stage III of scale development: reliability and validity of the FAST. Study Design: Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2. Methods: Data from throwing athletes collected over 5 studies were pooled to assess reliability and validity of the FAST. Reliability was estimated using FAST scores from 162 throwing athletes who were injured (n = 23) and uninjured (n = 139). Concurrent validity was estimated using FAST scores and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) and Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic (KJOC) scores from 106 healthy, uninjured throwing athletes. Known-groups validity was estimated using FAST scores from 557 throwing athletes who were injured (n = 142) and uninjured (n = 415). Reliability and validity were assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), and measurement error was assessed using standard error of measurement (SEM) and minimum detectable change (MDC). Receiver operating characteristic curves and sensitivity/specificity values were estimated for known-groups validity. Data from a separate group (n = 18) of postsurgical and nonoperative/conservative rehabilitation patients were analyzed to report responsiveness of the FAST. Results: The FAST total, subscales, and pitcher module scores demonstrated excellent test-retest reliability (ICC, 0.91-0.98). The SEM95 and MDC95 for the FAST total score were 3.8 and 10.5 points, respectively. The SEM95 and MDC95 for the pitcher module score were 5.7 and 15.7 points, respectively. The FAST scores showed acceptable correlation with DASH (ICC, 0.49-0.82) and KJOC (ICC, 0.62-0.81) scores. The FAST total score classified 85.1% of players into the correct injury group. For predicting UE injury status, a FAST total cutoff score of 10.0 out of 100.0 was 91% sensitive and 75% specific, and a pitcher module score of 10.0 out of 100.0 was 87% sensitive and 78% specific. The FAST total score demonstrated responsiveness on several indices between intake and discharge time points. Conclusion: The FAST is a reliable, valid, and responsive UE region-specific and population-specific PRO scale for measuring patient-reported health care outcomes in throwing athletes with injury. PMID:28451614

Sensitivity to change of mobility measures in musculoskeletal conditions on lower extremities in outpatient rehabilitation settings.

PubMed

Navarro-Pujalte, Esther; Gacto-Sánchez, Mariano; Montilla-Herrador, Joaquina; Escolar-Reina, Pilar; Ángeles Franco-Sierra, María; Medina-Mirapeix, Francesc

2018-01-12

Prospective longitudinal study. To examine the sensitivity of the Mobility Activities Measure for lower extremities and to compare it to the sensitivity of the Physical Functioning Scale (PF-10) and the Patient-Specific Functional Scale (PSFS) at week 4 and week 8 post-hospitalization in outpatient rehabilitation settings. Mobility Activities Measure is a set of short mobility measures to track outpatient rehabilitation progress: its scales have shown good properties but its sensitivity to change has not been reported. Patients with musculoskeletal conditions were recruited at admission in three outpatient rehabilitation settings in Spain. Data were collected at admission, week 4 and week 8 from an initial sample of 236 patients (mean age ± SD = 36.7 ± 11.1). Mobility Activities Measure scales for lower extremity; PF-10; and PSFS. All the Mobility Activities Measure scales were sensitive to both positive and negative changes (the Standardized Response Means (SRMs) ranged between 1.05 and 1.53 at week 4, and between 0.63 and 1.47 at week 8). The summary measure encompassing the three Mobility Activities Measure scales detected a higher proportion of participants who had improved beyond the minimal detectable change (MDC) than detected by the PSFS and the PF-10 both at week 4 (86.64% vs. 69.81% and 42.23%, respectively) and week 8 (71.14% vs. 55.65% and 60.81%, respectively). The three Mobility Activities Measure scales assessing the lower extremity can be used across outpatient rehabilitation settings to provide consistent and sensitive measures of changes in patients' mobility. Implications for rehabilitation All the scales of the Mobility Activities Measure for the lower extremity were sensitive to both positive and negative change across the follow-up periods. Overall, the summary measure encompassing the three Mobility Activities Measure scales for the lower extremity appeared more sensitive to positive changes than the Physical Functioning Scale, especially during the first four weeks of treatment. The summary measure also detected a higher percentage of participants with positive change that exceeded the minimal detectable change than the Patient-Specific Functional Scale and the Physical Functioning Scale at the first follow-up period. By demonstrating their consistency and sensitivity to change, the three Mobility Activities Measures scales can now be considered in order to track patients' functional progress. Mobility Activities Measure can be therefore used in patients with musculoskeletal conditions across outpatient rehabilitation settings to provide estimates of change in mobility activities focusing on the lower extremity.

Process Produces Low-Secondary-Electron-Emission Surfaces

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Curren, A. N.; Jensen, K. A.; Roman, R. F.

1986-01-01

Textured carbon layer applied to copper by sputtering. Carbon surface characterized by dense, random array of needle-like spires or peaks that extend perpendicularly from local copper surface. Spires approximately 7 micrometers in height and spaced approximately 3 micrometers apart, on average. Copper substrate essentially completely covered by carbon layer, is tenacious and not damaged by vibration loadings representative of multistage depressed collector (MDC) applications. Process developed primarily to provide extremely low-secondary-electron-emission surface for copper for use as highefficiency electrodes in MDC's for microwave amplifier traveling-wave tubes (TWT's). Tubes widely used in space communications, aircraft, and terrestrial applications.

Waveguide Multimode Directional Coupler for Harvesting Harmonic Power from the Output of Traveling-Wave Tube Amplifiers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Simons, Rainee N.; Wintucky, Edwin G.

2017-01-01

The paper presents the design, fabrication, and test results for a novel waveguide multimode directional coupler (MDC). The coupler fabricated from dissimilar frequency band waveguides, is capable of isolating power at the 2nd harmonic frequency from the fundamental power at the output port of a high power traveling-wave tube amplifier. The major advantage of the MDC is significantly lower insertion loss compared to a diplexer. The presentation slides for the paper that was approved is attached. The tracking number for the paper that was approved is TN 37015.

Performance and reliability of the Y-Balance TestTM in high school athletes.

PubMed

Smith, Laura J; Creps, James R; Bean, Ryan; Rodda, Becky; Alsalaheen, Bara

2017-11-07

Lower extremity injuries account for 32.9% of the overall injuries in high school athletes. Previous research has suggested that asymmetry greater than 4cm using the Y-Balance TestTM Lower Quarter (YBT-LQ) in the anterior direction is predictive of non- contact injuries in adults and collegiate athletes. The prevalence of asymmetries or abnormal YBT-LQ performance is not well documented for adolescents. The primary purposes of this study are: 1) to characterize the prevalence of YBT-LQ asymmetries and performance in a cross-sectional sample of adolescents, 2) to examine possible differences in performance on the YBT-LQ between male and female adolescents, and 3) to describe the test-retest reliability of the YBT-LQ in a subsample of adolescents. Observational cross-sectional study. High-school athletes completed the YBT-LQ as main outcome measure. 51 male, 59 female high-school athletes participated in this study. Asymmetries greater than 4cm in the posteromedial (PM) reach direction were most prevalent for male (54.9%) and female (50.8%) participants. Females presented with slightly higher composite scores. Good reliability (ICC = 0.89) was found for the anterior (ANT) direction, and moderate reliability with 0.76 for posterolateral (PL) and 0.63 for PM directions. The MDC95 for the ANT direction was 6% and 12% for both the PL and PM directions. The YBT-LQ performance can be beneficial in assessing recovery in an injured extremity compared to the other limb. However, due to the large MDC95, noted in the PM and PL directions, the differences between sequential testing cannot be attributed to true change in balance unless they exceed the MDC95. In this study, 79% of the athletes presented with at least one asymmetry in YBT-LQ reach distances. Moderate reliability in the PL and PM directions warrants reexamination of the definition of asymmetry in these directions.

Minimally important change was estimated for the Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire after foot/ankle surgery.

PubMed

Dawson, Jill; Boller, Irene; Doll, Helen; Lavis, Grahame; Sharp, Robert; Cooke, Paul; Jenkinson, Crispin

2014-06-01

To ascertain the smallest amounts of change for the three Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOXFQ) domains that are likely to be clinically meaningful and beyond measurement error for conditions affecting the foot/ankle. Estimates were compared with those from the Short-Form 36 (SF-36). A prospective observational study of 671 consecutive patients undergoing foot or ankle surgery at an orthopedic hospital. Before and 9 months after surgery, patients completed the MOXFQ and SF-36; transition items (anchor) asked about perceived changes in foot/ankle pain or problems since the surgery. Four hundred ninety-one patients completed pre- and postoperative questionnaires. Anchor-based minimal clinically important change (MCIC) values were ~13 points for each of the MOXFQ Walking/standing (W/S), Pain, and Social Interaction (S-I) domains [and greater than the standard error of measurement (SEM)]. MCIC values for all SF-36 domains fell within the SEM. Between-group MCIDs for the MOXFQ were W/S, 16.2; Pain, 9.9; S-I, 9.3. Distribution-based minimal detectable change (MDC90) values for the MOXFQ were ~11, ~12, and ~16 score points for the W/S, Pain, and S-I scales, respectively. This article provides information for aiding the interpretability of MOXFQ outcomes data and for planning future studies. The SF-36 is not recommended as a primary outcome for foot/ankle surgery. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

New meteor showers – yes or not?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koukal, Jakub

2018-01-01

The development of meteor astronomy associated with the development of CCD technology is reflected in a huge increase in databases of meteor orbits. It has never been possible before in the history of meteor astronomy to examine properties of meteors or meteor showers. Existing methods for detecting new meteor showers seem to be inadequate in these circumstances. The spontaneous discovery of new meteor showers leads to ambiguous specifications of new meteor showers. There is a duplication of already discovered meteor showers and a division of existing meteor showers based on their own criteria. The analysis in this article considers some new meteor showers in the IAU MDC database.

Reliability, validity and responsiveness of the Spanish Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOXFQ) in patients with foot or ankle surgery.

PubMed

Garcés, Juan B Gerstner; Winson, Ian; Goldhahn, Sabine; Castro, Michael D; Swords, Michael P; Grujic, Leslie; Rammelt, Stefan; Sands, Andrew K

2016-03-01

The Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOXFQ) has been validated in Spanish for use in patients undergoing foot and ankle surgery. 120 patients completed the MOXFQ and the SF-36 before surgery and 6 and 12 months postoperative. Surgeons completed the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Clinical Rating System. Psychometric properties were assessed for all three MOXFQ dimensions, and for the MOXFQ Index. The Spanish MOXFQ demonstrated consistency with Cronbach's alpha values between 0.65 and 0.90, and reliability ([ICCs] >0.95). It shows a moderate to strong correlation between the Walking/standing dimension and the related domains of the SF-36 (|r|>0.6), the AOFAS Ankle-Hindfoot Scale (|r|>0.47) and Hallux-MTP-IP Scale (|r|>0.64). Responsiveness was excellent, (effect sizes >2.1). The respective minimal detectable change (MDC90) was 14.18 for the MOXFQ Index. The Spanish version of the MOXFQ showed good psychometric properties in patients with foot and ankle disorders. Copyright © 2015 European Foot and Ankle Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Primary health care teams and the patient perspective: a social network analysis.

PubMed

Cheong, Lynn H M; Armour, Carol L; Bosnic-Anticevich, Sinthia Z

2013-01-01

Multidisciplinary care (MDC) has been proposed as a potential strategy to address the rising challenges of modern health issues. However, it remains unclear as to how patients' health connections may impact on multidisciplinary processes and outcomes. This research aims to gain a deeper understanding of patients' potential role in MDC: i) describe patients' health networks, ii) compare different care groups, iii) gain an understanding of the nature and extent of their interactions, and iv) identify the role of pharmacists within patient networks. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with asthma patients from Sydney, Australia. Participants were recruited from a range of standard asthma health care access points (community group) and a specialized multidisciplinary asthma clinic (clinic group). Quantitative social network analysis provided structural insight into asthma networks while qualitative social network analysis assisted in interpretation of network data. A total of 47 interviews were conducted (26 community group participants and 21 clinic group participants). Although participants' asthma networks consisted of a range of health care professionals (HCPs), these did not reflect or encourage MDC. Not only did participants favor minimal interaction with any HCP, they preferred sole-charge care and were found to strongly rely on lay individuals such as family and friends. While general practitioners and respiratory specialists were participants' principal choice of HCP, community pharmacists were less regarded. Limited opportunities were presented for HCPs to collaborate, particularly pharmacists. As patients' choices of HCPs may strongly influence collaborative processes and outcomes, this research highlights the need to consider patient perspectives in the development of MDC models in primary care. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Technical advance: Generation of human pDC equivalents from primary monocytes using Flt3-L and their functional validation under hypoxia.

PubMed

Sekar, Divya; Brüne, Bernhard; Weigert, Andreas

2010-08-01

The division of labor between DC subsets is evolutionarily well-defined. mDC are efficient in antigen presentation, whereas pDC act as rheostats of the immune system. They activate NK cells, cause bystander activation of mDC, and interact with T cells to induce tolerance. This ambiguity positions pDC at the center of inflammatory diseases, such as cancer, arthritis, and autoimmune diseases. The ability to generate human mDC ex vivo made it possible to engineer them to suit therapy needs. Unfortunately, a similar, easily accessible system to generate human pDC is not available. We describe a method to generate human pDC equivalents ex vivo, termed mo-pDC from peripheral blood monocytes using Flt3-L. mo-pDC showed a characteristic pDC profile, such as high CD123 and BDCA4, but low CD86 and TLR4 surface expression and a low capacity to induce autologous lymphocyte proliferation and to phagocytose apoptotic debris in comparison with mDC. Interestingly, mo-pDC up-regulated the pDC lineage-determining transcription factor E2-2 as well as expression of BDCA2, which is under the transcriptional control of E2-2 but not its inhibitor ID2, during differentiation. mo-pDC produced high levels of IFN-alpha when pretreated overnight with TNF-alpha. Under hypoxia, E2-2 was down-regulated, and ID2 was induced in mo-pDC, whereas surface expression of MHCI, CD86, and BDCA2 was decreased. Furthermore, mo-pDC produced high levels of inflammatory cytokines when differentiated under hypoxia compared with normoxia. Hence, mo-pDC can be used to study differentiation and functions of human pDC under microenvironmental stimuli.

Life or death by NFκB, Losartan promotes survival in dy2J/dy2J mouse of MDC1A

PubMed Central

Elbaz, M; Yanay, N; Laban, S; Rabie, M; Mitrani-Rosenbaum, S; Nevo, Y

2015-01-01

Inflammation and fibrosis are well-defined mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of the incurable Laminin α2-deficient congenital muscular dystrophy (MDC1A), while apoptosis mechanism is barely discussed. Our previous study showed treatment with Losartan, an angiotensin II type I receptor antagonist, improved muscle strength and reduced fibrosis through transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) signaling inhibition in the dy2J/dy2J mouse model of MDC1A. Here we show for the first time that Losartan treatment up-regulates and shifts the nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) signaling pathway to favor survival versus apoptosis/damage in this animal model. Losartan treatment was associated with significantly increased serum tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) level, p65 nuclei accumulation, and decreased muscle IκB-β protein level, indicating NFκB activation. Moreover, NFκB anti-apoptotic target genes TNF receptor-associated factor 1 (TRAF1), TNF receptor-associated factor 2 (TRAF2), cellular inhibitor of apoptosis (cIAP2), and Ferritin heavy chain (FTH1) were increased following Losartan treatment. Losartan induced protein expression toward a pro-survival profile as BCL-2 expression levels were increased and Caspase-3 expression levels were decreased. Muscle apoptosis reduction was further confirmed using terminal deoxynucleotidyltransferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay. Thus, along with TGF-β and MAPK signaling, NFκB serves as an important regulatory pathway which following Losartan treatment promotes survival in the dy2J/dy2J mouse model of MDC1A. PMID:25766329

Clinical and atopic parameters and airway inflammatory markers in childhood asthma: a factor analysis

PubMed Central

Leung, T; Wong, G; Ko, F; Lam, C; Fok, T

2005-01-01

Background: Recent studies have repeatedly shown weak correlations among lung function parameters, atopy, exhaled nitric oxide level (FeNO), and airway inflammatory markers, suggesting that they are non-overlapping characteristics of asthma in adults. A study was undertaken to determine, using factor analysis, whether the above features represent separate dimensions of childhood asthma. Methods: Clinically stable asthmatic patients aged 7–18 years underwent spirometric testing, methacholine bronchial challenge, blood sampling for atopy markers and chemokine levels (macrophage derived chemokine (MDC), thymus and activation regulated chemokine (TARC), and eotaxin), FeNO, and chemokines (MDC and eotaxin) and leukotriene B4 measurements in exhaled breath condensate (EBC). Results: The mean (SD) forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) and FeNO of 92 patients were 92.1 (15.9)% predicted and 87.3 (65.7) ppb, respectively. 59% of patients received inhaled corticosteroids. Factor analysis selected four different factors, explaining 55.5% of total variance. The Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin measure of sampling adequacy was 0.587. Plasma total and specific IgE levels, peripheral blood eosinophil percentage, and FeNO loaded on factor 1; plasma TARC and MDC concentrations on factor 2; MDC, eotaxin and leukotriene B4 concentrations in EBC on factor 3; and plasma eotaxin concentration together with clinical indices including body mass index and disease severity score loaded on factor 4. Post hoc factor analyses revealed similar results when outliers were excluded. Conclusions: The results suggest that atopy related indices and airway inflammation are separate dimensions in the assessment of childhood asthma, and inflammatory markers in peripheral blood and EBC are non-overlapping factors of asthma. PMID:16055623

Peripheral nerve pathology, including aberrant Schwann cell differentiation, is ameliorated by doxycycline in a laminin-α2-deficient mouse model of congenital muscular dystrophy

PubMed Central

Homma, Sachiko; Beermann, Mary Lou; Miller, Jeffrey Boone

2011-01-01

The most common form of childhood congenital muscular dystrophy, Type 1A (MDC1A), is caused by mutations in the human LAMA2 gene that encodes the laminin-α2 subunit. In addition to skeletal muscle deficits, MDC1A patients typically show a loss of peripheral nerve function. To identify the mechanisms underlying this loss of nerve function, we have examined pathology and cell differentiation in sciatic nerves and ventral roots of the laminin-α2-deficient (Lama2−/−) mice, which are models for MDC1A. We found that, compared with wild-type, sciatic nerves of Lama2−/− mice had a significant increase in both proliferating (Ki67+) cells and premyelinating (Oct6+) Schwann cells, but also had a significant decrease in both immature/non-myelinating [glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)+] and myelinating (Krox20+) Schwann cells. To extend our previous work in which we found that doxycycline, which has multiple effects on mammalian cells, improves motor behavior and more than doubles the median life-span of Lama2−/− mice, we also determined how nerve pathology was affected by doxycycline treatment. We found that myelinating (Krox20+) Schwann cells were significantly increased in doxycycline-treated compared with untreated sciatic nerves. In addition, doxycycline-treated peripheral nerves had significantly less pathology as measured by assays such as amount of unmyelinated or disorganized axons. This study thus identified aberrant proliferation and differentiation of Schwann cells as key components of pathogenesis in peripheral nerves and provided proof-of-concept that pharmaceutical therapy can be of potential benefit for peripheral nerve dysfunction in MDC1A. PMID:21505075

Microbial carriage state of peripheral blood dendritic cells (DCs) in chronic periodontitis influences DC differentiation, atherogenic potential.

PubMed

Carrion, Julio; Scisci, Elizabeth; Miles, Brodie; Sabino, Gregory J; Zeituni, Amir E; Gu, Ying; Bear, Adam; Genco, Caroline A; Brown, David L; Cutler, Christopher W

2012-09-15

The low-grade oral infection chronic periodontitis (CP) has been implicated in coronary artery disease risk, but the mechanisms are unclear. In this study, a pathophysiological role for blood dendritic cells (DCs) in systemic dissemination of oral mucosal pathogens to atherosclerotic plaques was investigated in humans. The frequency and microbiome of CD19(-)BDCA-1(+)DC-SIGN(+) blood myeloid DCs (mDCs) were analyzed in CP subjects with or without existing acute coronary syndrome and in healthy controls. FACS analysis revealed a significant increase in blood mDCs in the following order: healthy controls < CP < acute coronary syndrome/CP. Analysis of the blood mDC microbiome by 16S rDNA sequencing showed Porphyromonas gingivalis and other species, including (cultivable) Burkholderia cepacia. The mDC carriage rate with P. gingivalis correlated with oral carriage rate and with serologic exposure to P. gingivalis in CP subjects. Intervention (local debridement) to elicit a bacteremia increased the mDC carriage rate and frequency in vivo. In vitro studies established that P. gingivalis enhanced by 28% the differentiation of monocytes into immature mDCs; moreover, mDCs secreted high levels of matrix metalloproteinase-9 and upregulated C1q, heat shock protein 60, heat shock protein 70, CCR2, and CXCL16 transcripts in response to P. gingivalis in a fimbriae-dependent manner. Moreover, the survival of the anaerobe P. gingivalis under aerobic conditions was enhanced when within mDCs. Immunofluorescence analysis of oral mucosa and atherosclerotic plaques demonstrate infiltration with mDCs, colocalized with P. gingivalis. Our results suggest a role for blood mDCs in harboring and disseminating pathogens from oral mucosa to atherosclerosis plaques, which may provide key signals for mDC differentiation and atherogenic conversion.

Lack of Evidence for Green Tea Polyphenols as DNA Methylation Inhibitors in Murine Prostate

PubMed Central

Morey Kinney, Shannon R.; Zhang, Wa; Pascual, Marien; Greally, John M.; Gillard, Bryan M.; Karasik, Ellen; Foster, Barbara A.; Karpf, Adam R.

2009-01-01

Green tea polyphenols (GTPs) have been reported to inhibit DNA methylation in cultured cells. Here we tested whether oral consumption of GTPs affects normal or cancer specific DNA methylation in vivo, using mice. Wildtype (WT) and Transgenic Adenocarcinoma of Mouse Prostate (TRAMP) mice were administered 0.3% GTPs in drinking water beginning at 4 weeks of age. To monitor DNA methylation, we measured 5-methyl-deoxycytidine (5mdC) levels, methylation of the B1 repetitive element, and methylation of the Mage-a8 gene. Each of these parameters were unchanged in prostate, gut, and liver from WT mice at both 12 and 24 weeks of age, with the single exception of a decrease of 5mdC in the liver at 12 weeks. In GTP-treated TRAMP mice, 5mdC levels and the methylation status of four loci hypermethylated during tumor progression were unaltered in TRAMP prostates at 12 or 24 weeks. Quite surprisingly, GTP treatment did not inhibit tumor progression in TRAMP mice, although known pharmacodynamic markers of GTPs were altered in both WT and TRAMP prostates. We also administered 0.1%, 0.3%, or 0.6% GTPs to TRAMP mice for 12 weeks and measured 5mdC levels and methylation of B1 and Mage-a8 in prostate, gut, and liver tissues. No dose-dependent alterations in DNA methylation status were observed. Genome-wide DNA methylation profiling using the HELP assay also revealed no significant hypomethylating effect of GTP. These data indicate that oral administration of GTPs does not affect normal or cancer-specific DNA methylation in the murine prostate. PMID:19934341

Thermal characteristics of the 12-gigahertz, 200-watt output stage tube for the communications technology satellite

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Curren, A. N.

1978-01-01

A description of the methods used to measure component temperatures and heat-rejection rates in a simulated space environment on output stage tubes (OST's) developed for the Communications Technology Satellite is presented along with summaries of experimentally determined values. The OST's were operated over the entire anticipated operating drive range, from the dc beam (zero drive) condition to the 6-db overdrive condition. The baseplate temperature was varied from -10 to 58 C with emphasis placed on the testing done at 45 C, the normal anticipated operating temperature. The heat-rejection rate of the OST baseplate ranged from 7.6 W at the dc beam condition to 184.5 W at the 6-db overdrive condition; the heat-rejection rate of the multistage depressed collector (MDC) cover ranged from 192.2 to 155.9 W for the same conditions. The maximum OST temperature measured on the MDC cover was 227 C during a dc beam test. The minimum temperature measured, also on the MDC cover, was -67.5 C at the end of an extended simulated eclipse test period. No effects were observed on the OST thermal characteristics due to vibration testing or temperature-reversal cycle testing.

Stacked microbial desalination cells to enhance water desalination efficiency.

PubMed

Chen, Xi; Xia, Xue; Liang, Peng; Cao, Xiaoxin; Sun, Haotian; Huang, Xia

2011-03-15

Microbial desalination cell (MDC) is a new method to obtain clean water from brackish water using electricity generated from organic matters by exoelectrogenic bacteria. Anions and cations, derived from salt solution filled in the desalination chamber between the anode and cathode, move to the anode and cathode chambers under the force of electrical field, respectively. On the basis of the primitive single-desalination-chambered MDC, stacked microbial desalination cells (SMDCs) were developed in order to promote the desalination rate in the present study. The effects of desalination chamber number and external resistance were investigated. Results showed that a remarkable increase in the total desalination rate (TDR) could be obtained by means of increasing the desalination cell number and reducing the external resistance, which caused the charge transfer efficiency increased since the SMDCs enabled more pairs of ions separated while one electron passed through the external circuit. The maximum TDR of 0.0252 g/h was obtained using a two-desalination-chambered SMDC with an external resistance of 10 Ω, which was 1.4 times that of single-desalination-chambered MDC. SMDCs proved to be an effective approach to increase the total water desalination rate if provided a proper desalination chamber number and external resistance.

Enhancing Medical Decision-Making Evaluations: Introduction of Normative Data for the Capacity to Consent to Treatment Instrument.

PubMed

Gerstenecker, Adam; Niccolai, Lindsay; Marson, Daniel; Triebel, Kristen L

2016-04-01

A number of measures have been developed to assess medical decision-making capacity (MDC) in adults. However, their clinical utility is limited by a lack of available normative data. In the current study, we introduce age-independent and age-adjusted normative data for a measure of MDC: the Capacity to Consent to Treatment Instrument. The sample consisted of 308 cognitively normal, community-dwelling adults ranging in age from 19 to 86 years. For age-adjusted norms, individual raw scores were first converted to age-corrected scaled scores based on position within a cumulative frequency distribution and then grouped according to empirically supported age ranges. For age-independent norms, the same method was utilized but without age-corrections being applied or participants being grouped into age ranges. This study has the potential to enhance MDC evaluations by allowing clinicians to compare a patient's performance on the Capacity to Consent to Treatment Instrument with that of adults regardless of age as well as to same age peers. Tables containing normative corrections are supplementary material available online at http://asm.sagepub.com/supplemental. © The Author(s) 2015.

Abnormal cytokine production by circulating monocytes and dendritic cells of myeloid origin in ART-treated HIV-1+ patients relates to CD4+ T-cell recovery and HCV co-infection.

PubMed

Almeida, Maria; Cordero, Miguel; Almeida, Julia; Orfao, Alberto

2007-05-01

HIV-1 infection is associated with dysregulation of cytokine production by peripheral blood (PB) monocytes and dendritic cells (DC), but controversial results have been reported. We aimed to analyze the effect of antiretroviral therapy (ART) on the in vitro production of inflammatory cytokines by PB-stimulated monocytes and DC of myeloid origin -CD33(high+ ) myeloid DC (mDC) and CD33(+)/CD14(-/dim+)/CD16(high+) DC- from HIV-1+ patients and its relationship with CD4+ T-cell recovery and co-infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV). In vitro cytokine production was analyzed at the single cell level in 32 HIV-1+ patients, grouped according to the number of CD4+ T-cells/microl in PB (<200 CD4 versus >200 CD4). Patients were tested prior to therapy and at weeks +2, +4, +8, +12 and +52 after ART. Prior to ART, production of IL-6, TNF-alpha and IL-12 by mDC and of IL-8 and IL-12 by CD16+ DC was significantly increased among >200 CD4 patients. After one year of ART, increased production of IL-8 by monocytes, of TNF-alpha by mDC and of IL-1beta, IL-6 and TNF-alpha by CD16+ DC was specifically observed among <200 CD4 HIV-1+ individuals showing a high recovery of PB CD4+ T-cell counts. In turn, we found that the significantly reduced percentage of IL-1beta, IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-alpha-producing monocytes and of IL-6 and IL-8-producing mDC and CD16+ DC, as well as the significantly diminished mean amount of IL-6 produced per monocyte, mDC and CD16+ DC and of IL-12 produced per CD16+ DC observed at week +52 for the >200 CD4 patients, were related to the presence of co-infection with HCV. In summary, HIV-1+ individuals show abnormal production of inflammatory cytokines by PB-stimulated monocytes and DC of myeloid origin even after one year of ART, such abnormalities being associated with the degree of recovery of PB CD4+ T-cell counts in more immunocompromised patients and HCV co-infection in more immunocompetent HIV-1+ individuals.

Up-regulation of CCL17, CCL22 and CCR4 in drug-induced maculopapular exanthema.

PubMed

Tapia, B; Morel, E; Martín-Díaz, M-A; Díaz, R; Alves-Ferreira, J; Rubio, P; Padial, A; Bellón, T

2007-05-01

Maculopapular exanthema has been reported to be the most frequently drug-induced cutaneous reaction. Although T lymphocytes are involved in the pathomechanism of this disease, little is know about the recruitment of these cells to the skin. The aim of this work is to study the role of the chemokines TARC/CCL17 and MDC/CCL22 in the lymphocyte trafficking to affected skin in drug-induced exanthemas. Real-time PCR was performed to quantify gene expression levels of CCL17, CCL22 and their receptor CCR4 in lesional skin biopsies and in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from patients. CCL27 and CCL22 proteins were detected in the skin by immunochemistry. Protein expression of CCR4 was determined by flow cytometry in peripheral blood lymphocytes. Functional migration assays to CCL17 and CCL22 were assessed to compare the migratory responses of peripheral blood lymphocytes from patients and healthy subjects. CCL17 and CCL22 were up-regulated in maculopapular exanthema-affected skin. CCR4 mRNA levels and protein expression were increased in peripheral blood mononuclear cells during the acute phase of the disease. The increased expression of the receptor was consistent with a higher response of peripheral blood lymphocytes to CCL17 and CCL22 compared with the migratory response in healthy donors. TARC/CCL17 and MDC/CCL22 might cooperate in attracting T lymphocytes to skin in drug-induced maculopapular exanthemas.

The critical role of quercetin in autophagy and apoptosis in HeLa cells.

PubMed

Wang, Yijun; Zhang, Wei; Lv, Qiongying; Zhang, Juan; Zhu, Dingjun

2016-01-01

In recent years, the effects of quercetin on autophagy and apoptosis of cancer cells have been widely reported, while effects on HeLa cells are still unclear. Here, HeLa cells were subjected to quercetin treatment, and then proliferation, apoptosis, and autophagy were evaluated using MTT, flow cytometry, and MDC staining, respectively. The LC3-I/II, Beclin 1, active caspase-3, and S6K1 phosphorylation were detected using Western blot assay. The ultrastructure of HeLa was observed via transmission electron microscope (TEM). Our findings showed that quercetin can dose-dependently inhibit the growth of HeLa cells. The MDC fluorescence was enhanced with increased concentration of quercetin and hit a plateau at 50 μmol/l. Western blot assay revealed that LC3-I/II ratio, Beclin 1, and active caspase-3 protein were enforced in a dose-dependent method. However, the phosphorylation of S6K1 gradually decreased, concomitant with an increase of autophagy. In addition, TEM revealed that the number of autophagic vacuoles was peaked at 50 μmol/l of quercetin. Besides, interference of autophagy with 3-MA led to proliferation inhibition and increased apoptosis in HeLa cells, accompanied by the decreased LC3-I/II conversion and the increased active caspase-3. In conclusion, quercetin can inhibit HeLa cell proliferation and induce protective autophagy at low concentrations; thus, 3-MA plus quercetin would suppress autophagy and effectively increased apoptosis.

Performance of a Low Activity Beta-Sensitive SR{sup 90} Water Monitor for Fukushima

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

Zickefoose, J.; Bronson, F.; Ilie, G.

There are large volumes of contaminated water from the stabilization efforts at the damaged Fukushima Nuclear Power Plants. This water is being processed to remove radioactivity for eventual release to the environment. An on-line continuously operating system to confirm that the clean-up system is working properly, and to provide prompt feedback of the results is required by the system operator. While gamma emitting nuclides allow for the straight forward approach of gamma spectroscopy to identify and quantify radioactivity in water, pure beta emitting nuclides such as Sr{sup 90} pose a challenging problem. The relatively short range of beta radiation inmore » water requires optimization of the measurement geometry in terms of the source-detector distance and source-detector interface while retaining a background sensitivity low enough to meet the Minimum Detectable Concentration (MDC) of 10 Bq/kg in 180 minutes. This issue is complicated by the continuum nature of the beta spectrum which does not allow for simple nuclide identification. The use of the Monte-Carlo code MCNP to estimate system performance before prototyping vastly increases the success of the end product. Various parameters such as detector size and thickness, water chamber size, water chamber construction materials were evaluated to help choose the optimum geometry. The final design was a system consisting of two large-area (16 x 35 cm) and thin (0.15 mm) plastic scintillators placed very close to a sealed a water chamber. The size of the chamber was optimized to obtain the maximum efficiency for the nuclide being measured (Sr/Y{sup 90}) but to minimize the efficiency for possible interferences (Ru/Rh{sup 106}, Cs{sup 137}). A thin carbon fiber window was selected with adequate material and thickness to contain the water under pressure, but also thin enough (0.5 mm) to allow enough beta radiation to pass through to the active detector volume. The entire measurement geometry is then housed in a thick lead shield to reduce contributions from external sources to an acceptable level. Data acquisition is accomplished through customized application-specific software that allows for long counting times to attain a low MDC, but also simultaneously provides alarms on short averaging times to achieve a fast response to sudden changes in activity concentration. Multiple monitors are then linked to supervisory software where real time data and alarms are available for analysis in remote locations. The system also allows for remote operation of the unit; check sources, background checks, systems settings and more may be accessed remotely. Testing of the production devices has shown that we can achieve the 10 Bk/kg MDC requirement for Sr{sup 90} in equilibrium with Y{sup 90} with a count time of approximately 20 minutes. (authors)« less

Concurrent validity of resting pulse-rate measurements: a comparison of 2 smartphone applications, the polar H7 belt monitor, and a pulse oximeter with bluetooth.

PubMed

Cheatham, Scott W; Kolber, Morey J; Ernst, Michael P

2015-05-01

Pulse rate is commonly measured manually or with commercial wrist or belt monitors. More recently, pulse-rate monitoring has become convenient with the use of mobile technology that allows monitoring through a smartphone camera. This optical technology offers many benefits, although the clinimetric properties have not been extensively studied. Observational study of reliability Setting: University kinesiology laboratory. 30 healthy, recreationally active adults. Concurrent measurement of pulse rate using 2 smartphone applications (fingertip, face-scan,) with the Polar H7 belt and pulse oximeter. Average resting pulse rate for 5 min in 3 positions (supine, sitting, and prone). Concurrent validity in supine and standing was good between the 2 applications and the Polar H7 (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] .80-.98) and pulse oximeter (ICC .82-.98). For sitting, the validity was good between the fingertip application, Polar H7 (ICC .97), and pulse oximeter (ICC .97). The face-scan application had moderate validity with the Polar H7 (ICC .74) and pulse oximeter (ICC .69). The minimal detectable change (MDC90) between the fingertip application and Polar H7 ranged from 1.38 to 4.36 beats/min (BPM) and from 0.69 to 2.97 BPM for the pulse oximeter with both positions. The MDC90 between the face-scan application and Polar H7 ranged from 11.88 to 12.83 BPM and from 0.59 to 17.72 BPM for the pulse oximeter. The 95% limits of agreement suggest that the fingertip application may vary between 2.40 and 3.59 BPM with the Polar H7 and between 3.40 and 3.42 BPM with the pulse oximeter. The face-scan application may vary between 3.46 and 3.52 BPM with the Polar H7 and between 2.54 and 3.46 BPM with the pulse oximeter. Pulse-rate measurements may be effective using a fingertip application, belt monitor, and pulse oximeter. The fingertip scanner showed superior results compared with the face scanner, which only demonstrated modest validity compared with the Polar H7 and pulse oximeter.

Reliability, Validity, and Ability to Identify Fall Status of the Balance Evaluation Systems Test, Mini-Balance Evaluation Systems Test, and Brief-Balance Evaluation Systems Test in Older People Living in the Community.

PubMed

Marques, Alda; Almeida, Sara; Carvalho, Joana; Cruz, Joana; Oliveira, Ana; Jácome, Cristina

2016-12-01

To assess the reliability, validity, and ability to identify fall status of the Balance Evaluation Systems Test (BESTest), Mini-BESTest, and Brief-BESTest, compared with the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), in older people living in the community. Cross-sectional. Community centers. Older adults (N=122; mean age ± SD, 76±9y). Not applicable. Participants reported on falls history in the preceding year and completed the Activities-Specific Balance Confidence (ABC) Scale. The BBS, BESTest, and the Five Times Sit-To-Stand Test were administered. Interrater (2 physiotherapists) and test-retest relative (48-72h) and absolute reliabilities were explored with the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) equation (2,1) and the Bland and Altman method. Minimal detectable changes at the 95% confidence level (MDC 95 ) were established. Validity was assessed by correlating the balance tests with each other and with the ABC Scale (Spearman correlation coefficients-ρ). Receiver operating characteristics assessed the ability of each balance test to differentiate between people with and without a history of falls. All balance tests presented good to excellent interrater (ICC=.71-.93) and test-retest (ICC=.50-.82) relative reliability, with no evidence of bias. MDC 95 values were 4.6, 9, 3.8, and 4.1 points for the BBS, BESTest, Mini-BESTest, and Brief-BESTest, respectively. All tests were significantly correlated with each other (ρ=.83-.96) and with the ABC Scale (ρ=.46-.61). Acceptable ability to identify fall status (areas under the curve, .71-.78) was found for all tests. Cutoff points were 48.5, 82, 19.5, and 12.5 points for the BBS, BESTest, Mini-BESTest, and Brief-BESTest, respectively. All balance tests are reliable, valid, and able to identify fall status in older people living in the community. Therefore, the choice of which test to use will depend on the level of balance impairment, purpose, and time availability. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Inc.

The development of the Dutch version of the Fremantle Back Awareness Questionnaire.

PubMed

Janssens, Lotte; Goossens, Nina; Wand, Benedict M; Pijnenburg, Madelon; Thys, Tinne; Brumagne, Simon

2017-12-01

Disturbed body perception may play a role in the aetiology of chronic low back pain (LBP). The Fremantle Back Awareness Questionnaire (FreBAQ) is currently the only self-report questionnaire to assess back-specific body perception in individuals with LBP. To perform a cross-cultural adaptation of the FreBAQ into Dutch. Psychometric study. A Dutch version of the FreBAQ was generated through forward-backward translation, and was completed by 73 patients with LBP and 73 controls to assess discriminant validity. Structural validity was assessed by principal component analysis. Internal consistency was assessed by the Cronbach's alpha coefficient. Construct validity was assessed by examining the relationship with clinical measures (Numerical Rating Scale pain, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia). Test-retest reliability was assessed in a subgroup (n = 48 with LBP and 48 controls) using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), standard error of measurement (SEM) and minimal detectable change (MDC 95%) RESULTS: The Dutch FreBAQ showed one component with eigenvalue >2. Cronbach's alpha values were respectively 0.82 and 0.73 for the LBP and control group. ICC values were respectively 0.69 and 0.70 for the LBP and control group. In the LBP group, the SEM was 3.9 and the MDC (95%) was 10.8. The LBP group (ODI 22 ± 21%) scored significantly higher on the Dutch FreBAQ than the control group (ODI 0%) (11 ± 7 vs. 3 ± 9, p < 0.001). Within the LBP group, higher Dutch FreBAQ scores correlated significantly with higher ODI scores (rho = 0.30, p = 0.010), although not with pain (rho = 0.10, p = 0.419) or kinesiophobia (r = 0.14, p = 0.226). The Dutch version of the FreBAQ can be considered as unidimensional and showed adequate internal consistency, sufficient test-retest reliability and adequate discriminant and construct validity in individuals with and without LBP. It can improve our understanding on back-specific perception in the Dutch-speaking population with LBP. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A new iPhone application for measuring active craniocervical range of motion in patients with non-specific neck pain: a reliability and validity study.

PubMed

Pourahmadi, Mohammad Reza; Bagheri, Rasool; Taghipour, Morteza; Takamjani, Ismail Ebrahimi; Sarrafzadeh, Javad; Mohseni-Bandpei, Mohammad Ali

2018-03-01

Measurement of cervical spine range of motion (ROM) is often considered to be an essential component of cervical spine physiotherapy assessment. This study aimed to investigate the reliability and validity of an iPhone application (app) (Goniometer Pro) for measuring active craniocervical ROM (ACCROM) in patients with non-specific neck pain. A cross-sectional study was conducted at the musculoskeletal biomechanics laboratory located at Iran University of Medical Sciences. Forty non-specific neck pain patients participated in this study. The outcome measure was the ACCROM, including flexion, extension, lateral flexion, and rotation. Following the recruitment process, ACCROM was measured using a universal goniometer (UG) and iPhone 7 app. Two blinded examiners each used the UG and iPhone to measure ACCROM in the following sequences: flexion, extension, lateral flexion, and rotation. The second (2 hours later) and third (48 hours later) sessions were carried out in the same manner as the first session. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) models were used to determine the intra-rater and inter-rater reliability. The Pearson correlation coefficients were used to establish concurrent validity of the iPhone app. Minimum detectable change at the 95% confidence level (MDC 95 ) was also computed. Good intra-rater and inter-rater reliability was demonstrated for the goniometer with ICC values of ≥0.66 and ≥0.70 and the iPhone app with ICC values of ≥0.62 and ≥0.65, respectively. The MDC 95 ranged from 2.21° to 12.50° for the intra-rater analysis and from 3.40° to 12.61° for the inter-rater analysis. The concurrent validity between the two instruments was high, with r valuesof ≥0.63. The magnitude of the differences between the UG and iPhone app values (effect sizes) was small, with Cohen d values of ≤0.17. The iPhone app possesses good reliability and high validity. It seems that this app can be used for measuring ACCROM. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Dream content and intrusive thoughts in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.

PubMed

Cavallotti, Simone; Casetta, Cecilia; Fanti, Valentina; Gambini, Orsola; Ostinelli, Edoardo G; Ranieri, Rebecca; Vanelli, Irene; D'Agostino, Armando

2016-10-30

Although central to any exhaustive theory of human subjectivity, the relationship between dream and waking consciousness remains uncertain. Some findings suggest that dream consciousness can be influenced by severe disorders of thought content. The suppression of unwanted thoughts has been shown to influence dream content in healthy individuals. In order to better define this phenomenon, we evaluated the persistence of obsessive/compulsive themes across the dream and waking cognition of OCD patients and in a control group of healthy subjects. Participants were administered a shortened version of the Thematic Apperception Test to produce a waking fantasy narration, and were trained to keep a dream diary. Dream and waking narrative contents were analyzed in order to recognize obsessive/compulsive themes, and to calculate Mean Dream Obsession/Compulsion (MDO, MDC) and Mean TAT Obsession/Compulsion (MTO, MTC) parameters. No differences were found between the two populations in terms of MDO, MDC, MTO, nor MTC. Density of obsessive and compulsive themes were significantly higher in dream reports than in waking narratives for both groups. No correlation was observed between MDO/MDC scores and Y-BOCS obsession/compulsion scores in the OCD group. These findings strengthen the discontinuity hypothesis, suggesting that ruminative aspects of cognition are somehow interrupted during dream activity. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Sea Buckthorn (Hippophaë rhamnoides L.) Oil Improves Atopic Dermatitis-Like Skin Lesions via Inhibition of NF-κB and STAT1 Activation.

PubMed

Hou, Dian-Dong; Di, Zheng-Hong; Qi, Rui-Qun; Wang, He-Xiao; Zheng, Song; Hong, Yu-Xiao; Guo, Hao; Chen, Hong-Duo; Gao, Xing-Hua

2017-01-01

The objective of this study was to evaluate the topical effects of sea buckthorn (SBT) oil on atopic dermatitis (AD)-like lesions in a mouse model generated by repeated topical administration of DNCB in BALB/c mice. DNCB was applied repeatedly on the dorsal skin of mice to induce AD-like lesions. Following AD induction, SBT oil was applied daily on the dorsal skin for 4 weeks. The severity of skin lesions was examined macroscopically and histologically. We further measured the production of MDC/CCL22 and TARC/CCL17 in IFN-γ/TNF-α activated HaCaT cells. Topically applied SBT oil in DNCB-treated mice ameliorated the severity score of dermatitis, decreased epidermal thickness, reduced spleen and lymph node weights, and prevented mast cell infiltration. In addition, SBT oil suppressed the Th2 chemokines TARC and MDC via dose-dependent inhibition of NF-κB, JAK2/STAT1, and p38-MAPK signaling pathways in IFN-γ/TNF-α-activated HaCaT cells. These results suggest that SBT oil had a beneficial effect on AD-like skin lesions, partially via inhibition of the Th2 chemokines TARC and MDC in inflamed skin. © 2017 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Design, fabrication and performance of small, graphite electrode, multistage depressed collectors with 200-W, CW, 8- to 18-GHz traveling-wave tubes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ebihara, Ben T.; Ramins, Peter

1987-01-01

Small multistage depressed collectors (MDC's) which used pyrolytic graphite, ion-beam-textured pyrolytic graphite, and isotropic graphite electrodes were designed, fabricated, and evaluated in conjuntion with 200-W, continuous wave (CW), 8- to 18-GHz traveling-wave tubes (TWT's). The design, construction, and performance of the MDC's are described. The bakeout performance of the collectors, in terms of gas evolution, was indistinguishable from that of typical production tubes with copper collectors. However, preliminary results indicate that some additional radiofrequency (RF) and dc beam processing time (and/or longer or higher temperature bakeouts) may be needed beyond that of typical copper electrode collectors. This is particularly true for pyrolytic graphite electrodes and for TWT's without appendage ion pumps. Extended testing indicated good long-term stability of the textured pyrolytic graphite and isotropic graphite electrode surfaces. The isotropic graphite in particular showed considerable promise as an MDC electrode material because of its high purity, low cost, simple construction, potential for very compact overall size, and relatively low secondary electron emission yield characteristics in the as-machined state. However, considerably more testing experience is required before definitive conclusions on its suitability for electronic countermeasure systems and space TWT's can be made.

Neurocognitive Models of Medical Decision-Making Capacity in Traumatic Brain Injury Across Injury Severity.

PubMed

Triebel, Kristen L; Novack, Thomas A; Kennedy, Richard; Martin, Roy C; Dreer, Laura E; Raman, Rema; Marson, Daniel C

2016-01-01

To identify neurocognitive predictors of medical decision-making capacity (MDC) in participants with mild and moderate/severe traumatic brain injury (TBI). Academic medical center. Sixty adult controls and 104 adults with TBI (49 mild, 55 moderate/severe) evaluated within 6 weeks of injury. Prospective cross-sectional study. Participants completed the Capacity to Consent to Treatment Instrument to assess MDC and a neuropsychological test battery. We used factor analysis to reduce the battery test measures into 4 cognitive composite scores (verbal memory, verbal fluency, academic skills, and processing speed/executive function). We identified cognitive predictors of the 3 most clinically relevant Capacity to Consent to Treatment Instrument consent standards (appreciation, reasoning, and understanding). In controls, academic skills (word reading, arithmetic) and verbal memory predicted understanding; verbal fluency predicted reasoning; and no predictors emerged for appreciation. In the mild TBI group, verbal memory predicted understanding and reasoning, whereas academic skills predicted appreciation. In the moderate/severe TBI group, verbal memory and academic skills predicted understanding; academic skills predicted reasoning; and academic skills and verbal fluency predicted appreciation. Verbal memory was a predictor of MDC in controls and persons with mild and moderate/severe TBI. In clinical practice, impaired verbal memory could serve as a "red flag" for diminished consent capacity in persons with recent TBI.

Self-Driven Desalination and Advanced Treatment of Wastewater in a Modularized Filtration Air Cathode Microbial Desalination Cell.

PubMed

Zuo, Kuichang; Wang, Zhen; Chen, Xi; Zhang, Xiaoyuan; Zuo, Jiaolan; Liang, Peng; Huang, Xia

2016-07-05

Microbial desalination cells (MDCs) extract organic energy from wastewater for in situ desalination of saline water. However, to desalinate salt water, traditional MDCs often require an anolyte (wastewater) and a catholyte (other synthetic water) to produce electricity. Correspondingly, the traditional MDCs also produced anode effluent and cathode effluent, and may produce a concentrate solution, resulting in a low production of diluate. In this study, nitrogen-doped carbon nanotube membranes and Pt carbon cloths were utilized as filtration material and cathode to fabricate a modularized filtration air cathode MDC (F-MDC). With real wastewater flowing from anode to cathode, and finally to the middle membrane stack, the diluate volume production reached 82.4%, with the removal efficiency of salinity and chemical oxygen demand (COD) reached 93.6% and 97.3% respectively. The final diluate conductivity was 68 ± 12 μS/cm, and the turbidity was 0.41 NTU, which were sufficient for boiler supplementary or industrial cooling. The concentrate production was only 17.6%, and almost all the phosphorus and salt, and most of the nitrogen were recovered, potentially allowing the recovery of nutrients and other chemicals. These results show the potential utility of the modularized F-MDC in the application of municipal wastewater advanced treatment and self-driven desalination.

Independent of plasmacytoid dendritic cell (pDC) infection, pDC triggered by virus-infected cells mount enhanced type I IFN responses of different composition as opposed to pDC stimulated with free virus.

PubMed

Frenz, Theresa; Graalmann, Lukas; Detje, Claudia N; Döring, Marius; Grabski, Elena; Scheu, Stefanie; Kalinke, Ulrich

2014-09-01

Upon treatment with vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) particles, plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDC) are triggered to mount substantial type I IFN responses, whereas myeloid DC (mDC) are only minor producers. Interestingly, bone marrow-derived (BM-)mDC were more vulnerable to infection with enhanced GFP (eGFP)-expressing VSV (VSVeGFP) than BM-pDC. BM-pDC stimulated with wild-type VSV mounted TLR-dependent IFN responses that were independent of RIG-I-like helicase (RLH) signaling. In contrast, in BM-pDC the VSV variant M2 induced particularly high IFN responses triggered in a TLR- and RLH-dependent manner, whereas BM-mDC stimulation was solely RLH-dependent. Importantly, VSVeGFP treatment of BM-pDC derived from IFN-β yellow fluorescent protein (YFP) reporter mice (messenger of IFN-β) resulted in YFP(+) and eGFP(+) single-positive cells, whereas among messenger of IFN-β-BM-mDC most YFP(+) cells were also eGFP(+). This observation indicated that unlike mDC, direct virus infection was not required to trigger IFN responses of pDC. VSV-infected BM-mDC triggered BM-pDC to mount significantly higher IFN responses than free virus particles. Stimulation with infected cells enhanced the percentages of pDC subsets expressing either IFN-β(+) or IFN-α6(+) plus IFN-β(+). Irrespective of whether stimulated with free virus or infected cells, IFN induction was dependent on autophagy of pDC, whereas autophagy of the infected mDC was dispensable. Collectively, these results indicated that productive VSV infection was needed to trigger IFN responses of mDC, but not of pDC, and that IFN responses were primarily induced by virus-infected cells that stimulated pDC in a TLR-dependent manner. Copyright © 2014 by The American Association of Immunologists, Inc.

Monocyte-derived dendritic cells exposed to Der p 1 allergen enhance the recruitment of Th2 cells: major involvement of the chemokines TARC/CCL17 and MDC/CCL22.

PubMed

Hammad, Hamida; Smits, Hermelijn H; Ratajczak, Céline; Nithiananthan, Asokananthan; Wierenga, Eddy A; Stewart, Geoffrey A; Jacquet, Alain; Tonnel, Andre-Bernard; Pestel, Joël

2003-01-01

Dendritic cells (DC) are potent antigen - presenting cells that can orientate the immune response towards a Th1 or a Th2 type. DC produce chemokines that are involved in the recruitment of either Th1 cells, such as IP10 (CXCL10), Th2 cells such as TARC (CCL17) and MDC (CCL22), or non-polarized T cells such as RANTES (CCL5) and MIP-lalpha (CCL3). We investigated whether monocyte-derived DC (MD-DC) generated from healthy donors or from patients sensitive to Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Dpt) and exposed to the cysteine-protease Der p 1(allergen of Dpt), could upregulate the expression of chemokines involved in type 1 or type 2 T cell recruitment. MD-DC were pulsed with either Der p 1 or with LPS as the control and the chemokines produced were evaluated using ELISA and chemotaxis assays. Der p 1-pulsed DC from allergic patients showed increased TARC (CCL17) and MDC (CCL22) production without modifying IP-10 (CXCL10) release. Der p 1-pulsed DC from healthy donors showed only increased IP-10 (CXCL10) secretion. RANTES (CCL5) and MIP-lalpha (CCL3) production were similarly increased when DC were from healthy or allergic donors. The selective Th2 clone recruitment activity of supernatants from Der p 1-pulsed DC of allergic patients was inhibited by anti-TARC (CCL17) and anti-MDC (CCL22) neutralizing Abs. By using anti-IP10 (CXCL10) blocking Abs, supernatants of Der p 1-pulsed DC from healthy donors were shown to be involved in the recruitment of Th1 cells. These results suggest that in allergic patients exposed to house dust mites, DC may favour the exacerbation of the Th2 response via the increase in type 2 chemokine production. Copyright John Libbey Eurotext 2003.

The Use of the Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities in the Identification of Mitochondrial Dysfunction in HIV-Infected Children.

PubMed

Chernoff, Miriam; Ford-Chatterton, Heather; Crain, Marilyn J

2012-10-01

To demonstrate the utility of a medical terminology-based method for identifying cases of possible mitochondrial dysfunction (MD) in a large cohort of youths with perinatal HIV infection and to describe the scoring algorithms. Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities (MedDRA) ® version 6 terminology was used to query clinical criteria for mitochondrial dysfunction by two published classifications, the Enquête Périnatale Française (EPF) and the Mitochondrial Disease Classification (MDC). Data from 2,931 participants with perinatal HIV infection on PACTG 219/219C were analyzed. Data were qualified for severity and persistence, after which clinical reviews of MedDRA-coded and other study data were performed. Of 14,000 data records captured by the EPF MedDRA query, there were 3,331 singular events. Of 18,000 captured by the MDC query, there were 3,841 events. Ten clinicians blindly reviewed non MedDRA-coded supporting data for 15 separate clinical conditions. We used the Statistical Analysis System (SAS) language to code scoring algorithms. 768 participants (26%) met the EPF case definition of possible MD; 694 (24%) met the MDC case definition, and 480 (16%) met both definitions. Subjective application of codes could have affected our results. MedDRA terminology does not include indicators of severity or persistence. Version 6.0 of MedDRA did not include Standard MedDRA Queries, which would have reduced the time needed to map MedDRA terms to EPF and MDC criteria. Together with a computer-coded scoring algorithm, MedDRA terminology enabled identification of potential MD based on clinical data from almost 3000 children with substantially less effort than a case by case review. The article is accessible to readers with a background in statistical hypothesis testing. An exposure to public health issues is useful but not strictly necessary.

Cost of myopic patients with and without myopic choroidal neovascularisation.

PubMed

Ruiz-Moreno, J M; Roura, M

2016-06-01

To study the costs associated with high myopia (HM) with choroidal neovascularisation (mCNV) or without mCNV. Observational, retrospective, cross-sectional, and multicentre study (HM and mCNV) conducted on adult patients. Annualised medical direct cost (MDC) from the perspective of the National Health System, the non-medical direct cost (nMDC) from the patient perspective, and productivity losses were calculated. A total of 137 mCNV and 48 HM patients were included (mean age [SD]: 55.1 [2.8] vs. 54.7 [13.8]; P=.2), with 80% women in both groups. The observation time (months) ranged from 17.9 (9.6) right eye (RE) and 20.0 (9.7), left eye (LE) in mCNV and 47.1 (21.5) RE/45.5 (20.7) LE in MM. A higher percentage of emergency room visits was observed in mCNV vs. HM patients (41.7 vs. 25%; P=.06) and retinal specialists (91.2 vs. 77.1%; P=.01). The MDC was higher in mCNV: € 1,985 (95% CI: 1772-2198) vs. € 356 (251-480) HM, P<.001. The nMDC was also higher in mCNV: € 256 (11-524) vs. €19 (11-26) HM, P>.4. The number of affected eyes, the follow-up time, and the mCNV were factors associated with direct costs. The impact on work productivity was higher in mCNV (quite/very concerned): 27.7 vs. 10.4% HM. The mCNV showed a significant association with activity impairment (OR: 3.47, 95% CI: 10.101-1.195). mCNV involves higher medical costs than HM. In addition, mCNV patients have a greater need of care and assistive devices, and greater impact of the disease in their work productivity. Copyright © 2016 Sociedad Española de Oftalmología. Published by Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

The Use of the Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities in the Identification of Mitochondrial Dysfunction in HIV-Infected Children

PubMed Central

Chernoff, Miriam; Ford-Chatterton, Heather; Crain, Marilyn J.

2012-01-01

Objective To demonstrate the utility of a medical terminology-based method for identifying cases of possible mitochondrial dysfunction (MD) in a large cohort of youths with perinatal HIV infection and to describe the scoring algorithms. Methods Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities (MedDRA)® version 6 terminology was used to query clinical criteria for mitochondrial dysfunction by two published classifications, the Enquête Périnatale Française (EPF) and the Mitochondrial Disease Classification (MDC). Data from 2,931 participants with perinatal HIV infection on PACTG 219/219C were analyzed. Data were qualified for severity and persistence, after which clinical reviews of MedDRA-coded and other study data were performed. Results Of 14,000 data records captured by the EPF MedDRA query, there were 3,331 singular events. Of 18,000 captured by the MDC query, there were 3,841 events. Ten clinicians blindly reviewed non MedDRA-coded supporting data for 15 separate clinical conditions. We used the Statistical Analysis System (SAS) language to code scoring algorithms. 768 participants (26%) met the EPF case definition of possible MD; 694 (24%) met the MDC case definition, and 480 (16%) met both definitions. Limitations Subjective application of codes could have affected our results. MedDRA terminology does not include indicators of severity or persistence. Version 6.0 of MedDRA did not include Standard MedDRA Queries, which would have reduced the time needed to map MedDRA terms to EPF and MDC criteria. Conclusion Together with a computer-coded scoring algorithm, MedDRA terminology enabled identification of potential MD based on clinical data from almost 3000 children with substantially less effort than a case by case review. The article is accessible to readers with a background in statistical hypothesis testing. An exposure to public health issues is useful but not strictly necessary. PMID:23797349

Hospital Utilization and Universal Health Insurance Coverage: Evidence from the Massachusetts Health Care Reform Act.

PubMed

Cseh, Attila; Koford, Brandon C; Phelps, Ryan T

2015-12-01

The Affordable Care Act is currently in the roll-out phase. To gauge the likely implications of the national policy we analyze how the Massachusetts Health Care Reform Act impacted various hospitalization outcomes in each of the 25 major diagnostic categories (MDC). We utilize a difference-in-difference approach to identify the impact of the Massachusetts reform on insurance coverage and patient outcomes. This identification is achieved using six years of data from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample from the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project. We report MDC-specific estimates of the impact of the reform on insurance coverage and type as well as length of stay, number of diagnoses, and number of procedures. The requirement of universal insurance coverage increased the probability of being covered by insurance. This increase was in part a result of an increase in the probability of being covered by Medicaid. The percentage of admissions covered by private insurance fell. The number of diagnoses rose as a result of the law in the vast majority of diagnostic categories. Our results related to length of stay suggest that looking at aggregate results hides a wealth of information. The most disparate outcomes were pregnancy related. The length of stay for new-born babies and neonates rose dramatically. In aggregate, this increase serves to mute decreases across other diagnoses. Also, the number of procedures fell within the MDCs for pregnancy and child birth and that for new-born babies and neonates. The Massachusetts Health Care Reform appears to have been effective at increasing insurance take-up rates. These increases may have come at the cost of lower private insurance coverage. The number of diagnoses per admission was increased by the policy across nearly all MDCs. Understanding the changes in length of stay as a result of the Massachusetts reform, and perhaps the Affordable Care Act, requires MDC-specific analysis. It appears that the most important distinction to make is to differentiate care related to new-born babies and neonates from that related to other diagnostic categories.

Myopic Macular Retinoschisis in Teenagers: Clinical Characteristics and Spectral Domain Optical Coherence Tomography Findings

PubMed Central

Sun, Chuan-bin; You, Yong-sheng; Liu, Zhe; Zheng, Lin-yan; Chen, Pei-qing; Yao, Ke; Xue, An-quan

2016-01-01

To investigate the morphological characteristics of myopic macular retinoschisis (MRS) in teenagers with high myopia, six male (9 eyes) and 3 female (4 eyes) teenagers with typical MRS identified from chart review were evaluated. All cases underwent complete ophthalmic examinations including best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), indirect ophthalmoscopy, colour fundus photography, B-type ultrasonography, axial length measurement, and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). The average age was 17.8 ± 1.5 years, average refractive error was −17.04 ± 3.04D, average BCVA was 0.43 ± 0.61, and average axial length was 30.42 ± 1.71 mm. Myopic macular degenerative changes (MDC) by colour fundus photographs revealed Ohno-Matsui Category 1 in 4 eyes, and Category 2 in 9 eyes. Posterior staphyloma was found in 9 eyes. SD-OCT showed outer MRS in all 13 eyes, internal limiting membrane detachment in 7 eyes, vascular microfolds in 2 eyes, and inner MRS in 1 eye. No premacular structures such as macular epiretinal membrane or partially detached posterior hyaloids were found. Our results showed that MRS rarely occurred in highly myopic teenagers, and was not accompanied by premacular structures, severe MDC, or even obvious posterior staphyloma. This finding indicates that posterior scleral expansion is probably the main cause of MRS. PMID:27294332

Children Studying the Sea.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hoile, Tim

1999-01-01

Describes the Marine Discovery Center (MDC) which emphasizes conservation of the marine environment, adaptations and features of various creatures, and the discovery of marine creatures in their habitat. (CCM)

135Xe measurements with a two-element CZT-based radioxenon detector for nuclear explosion monitoring.

PubMed

Ranjbar, Lily; Farsoni, Abi T; Becker, Eric M

2017-04-01

Measurement of elevated concentrations of xenon radioisotopes ( 131m Xe, 133m Xe, 133 Xe and 135 Xe) in the atmosphere has been shown to be a very powerful method for verifying whether or not a detected explosion is nuclear in nature. These isotopes are among the few with enough mobility and with half-lives long enough to make their detection at long distances realistic. Existing radioxenon detection systems used by the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO) suffer from problems such as complexity, need for high maintenance and memory effect. To study the response of CdZnTe (CZT) detectors to xenon radioisotopes and investigate whether it is capable of mitigating the aforementioned issues with the current radioxenon detection systems, a prototype detector utilizing two coplanar CZT detectors was built and tested at Oregon State University. The detection system measures xenon radioisotopes through beta-gamma coincidence technique by detecting coincidence events between the two detectors. In this paper, we introduce the detector design and report our measurement results with radioactive lab sources and 135 Xe produced in the OSU TRIGA reactor. Minimum Detectable Concentration (MDC) for 135 Xe was calculated to be 1.47 ± 0.05 mBq/m 3 . Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Changes in hope and health-related quality of life in couples following acute myocardial infarction: a quantitative longitudinal study.

PubMed

Eriksson, Monica; Asplund, Kenneth; Hochwälder, Jacek; Svedlund, Marianne

2013-06-01

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is a life-changing event that affects both the patient and the family and can have an influence on hope as well as HRQoL during the recovery period. To compare self-rated scores of hope and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) 1, 7, 13 and 25 months, after an AMI with regard to (i) differences across time, and (ii) differences between patients and their partners. Explorative and longitudinal study. In this nonrandomized study, Short Form 36 Health Questionnaire (SF-36) and Herth Hope Index-Swedish (HHI-S) questionnaires were completed by thirteen post-AMI patients and their partners. Data were collected on four occasions. In general, hope as well as HRQoL scores increased over time. A 2 (groups) × 4 (times) anova for mixed design showed significant changes in mental as well as in physical health over time but no significant effect of group on mental or physical health. Calculation of the minimum detectable change (MDC-index) for HHI-S and SF-36 revealed that scores between data collection points were not stable. conclusion: Our results show that although hope and HRQoL scores increased, only a few of the changes were statistically significant. Neither HHI-S nor SF-36 seems to measure stable states. Changes in hope and HRQoL levels may be due to participants striving to adapt to the current situation. These results can be used in the training of nursing staff to enhance their understanding of the significance of a family-centred approach after an AMI. © 2012 Nordic College of Caring Science.

5-azacytidine promotes microspore embryogenesis initiation by decreasing global DNA methylation, but prevents subsequent embryo development in rapeseed and barley

PubMed Central

Solís, María-Teresa; El-Tantawy, Ahmed-Abdalla; Cano, Vanesa; Risueño, María C.; Testillano, Pilar S.

2015-01-01

Microspores are reprogrammed by stress in vitro toward embryogenesis. This process is an important tool in breeding to obtain double-haploid plants. DNA methylation is a major epigenetic modification that changes in differentiation and proliferation. We have shown changes in global DNA methylation during microspore reprogramming. 5-Azacytidine (AzaC) cannot be methylated and leads to DNA hypomethylation. AzaC is a useful demethylating agent to study DNA dynamics, with a potential application in microspore embryogenesis. This work analyzes the effects of short and long AzaC treatments on microspore embryogenesis initiation and progression in two species, the dicot Brassica napus and the monocot Hordeum vulgare. This involved the quantitative analyses of proembryo and embryo production, the quantification of DNA methylation, 5-methyl-deoxy-cytidine (5mdC) immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy, and the analysis of chromatin organization (condensation/decondensation) by light and electron microscopy. Four days of AzaC treatments (2.5 μM) increased embryo induction, response associated with a decrease of DNA methylation, modified 5mdC, and heterochromatin patterns compared to untreated embryos. By contrast, longer AzaC treatments diminished embryo production. Similar effects were found in both species, indicating that DNA demethylation promotes microspore reprogramming, totipotency acquisition, and embryogenesis initiation, while embryo differentiation requires de novo DNA methylation and is prevented by AzaC. This suggests a role for DNA methylation in the repression of microspore reprogramming and possibly totipotency acquisition. Results provide new insights into the role of epigenetic modifications in microspore embryogenesis and suggest a potential benefit of inhibitors, such as AzaC, to improve the process efficiency in biotechnology and breeding programs. PMID:26161085

Comparison of new and existing algorithms for the analysis of 2D radioxenon beta gamma spectra

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

Deshmukh, Nikhil; Prinke, Amanda; Miller, Brian

2017-01-13

The aim of this paper is to compare radioxenon beta-gamma analysis algorithms using simulated spectra with experimentally measured background, where the ground truth of the signal is known. We believe that this is among the largest efforts to date in terms of the number of synthetic spectra generated and number of algorithms compared using identical spectra. We generate an estimate for the Minimum Detectable Counts (MDC) for each isotope using each algorithm. The paper also points out a conceptual model to put the various algorithms into a continuum. Our results show that existing algorithms can be improved and some newermore » algorithms can be better than the currently used ones.« less

[Therapeutic effect of autologous cytokine-induced killer cells on patients with liver cirrhosis caused by HBV infection].

PubMed

Su, Hai-bin; Li, Han-wei; Zhao, Hong-lan; Shi, Ming; Zhang, Bing; Tang, Zi-rong; Lei, Zhou-yun; Wang, Hui-fen; Wang, Fu-sheng

2007-03-01

To observe the therapeutic effect of autologous cytokine-induced killer cells (CIK) on HBV DNA positive patients with liver cirrhosis. HBV DNA positive 33 patients with cirrhosis were treated with CIK. Before and after cultured in vitro and post-treatment, CD3+, CD3+CD4+, CD3+CD8+, CD3+CD56+ cells, mDC and pDC were detected by flow cytometry. The indexes of virus and liver function were compared between pre- and post-treatment. CD3+, CD3+CD8+ cells and CD3+CD56+ cells were higher after cultured in vitro and after transfused back than those before culture (91.5 +/- 10.3, 74.4 +/- 9.9 vs. 67.9 +/- 12.8; 60.9 +/- 15.5, 37.3 +/- 15.1 vs. 27.9 +/- 10.9; 18.4 +/- 11.7, 14.5 +/- 7.5 vs. 10.6 +/- 7.1). The percentages of mDC and pDC also increased after-treatment vs. pre-treatment (0.54 +/- 0.18 vs. 0.70 +/- 0.29; 0.26 +/- 0.13 vs. 0.41 +/- 0.25). HBV DNA became undetectable in 12 patients and decrease exceeded 100 times in 4 patients after treatment. HBeAg became undetectable in 10 of 14 patients who were HBeAg positive pretreatment patients, among them 2 patients had HBeAb sero conversion. The liver function was improved after treatment. All patients tolerated the treatment. CIK treatment can increase immune effector cells and has some antiviral effect and is safe.

Quality of experience enhancement of high efficiency video coding video streaming in wireless packet networks using multiple description coding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boumehrez, Farouk; Brai, Radhia; Doghmane, Noureddine; Mansouri, Khaled

2018-01-01

Recently, video streaming has attracted much attention and interest due to its capability to process and transmit large data. We propose a quality of experience (QoE) model relying on high efficiency video coding (HEVC) encoder adaptation scheme, in turn based on the multiple description coding (MDC) for video streaming. The main contributions of the paper are (1) a performance evaluation of the new and emerging video coding standard HEVC/H.265, which is based on the variation of quantization parameter (QP) values depending on different video contents to deduce their influence on the sequence to be transmitted, (2) QoE support multimedia applications in wireless networks are investigated, so we inspect the packet loss impact on the QoE of transmitted video sequences, (3) HEVC encoder parameter adaptation scheme based on MDC is modeled with the encoder parameter and objective QoE model. A comparative study revealed that the proposed MDC approach is effective for improving the transmission with a peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) gain of about 2 to 3 dB. Results show that a good choice of QP value can compensate for transmission channel effects and improve received video quality, although HEVC/H.265 is also sensitive to packet loss. The obtained results show the efficiency of our proposed method in terms of PSNR and mean-opinion-score.

Hispanic ethnicity and fatal fall risk: do age, gender, and community modify the relationship?

PubMed

Landy, David C; Mintzer, Michael J; Silva, Amanda K; Dearwater, Stephen R; Schulman, Carl I

2012-06-01

Hispanic ethnicity is associated with a reduced risk of fatal falls in the elderly despite lower socioeconomic standing. The factors responsible for this "Hispanic paradox" are unknown. We hypothesized that age and gender would modify this relationship and that the association would be accentuated in a community with prominent Hispanic culture. The number of fatal falls in a 3-year period in the United States (US) and in Miami-Dade County, Florida (MDC) were obtained through the CDC's WISQARS database and the Florida Office of Vital Statistics. US Census Bureau data were used to define the total at-risk populations by age group and gender. Age group- and gender-specific ratios of the risk of fatal fall in Hispanic to white non-Hispanic individuals were calculated. In the US and MDC, Hispanic ethnicity was associated with a reduced risk of fatal fall across all age and gender subgroups. In the US, the risk reduction associated with Hispanic ethnicity grew from 11% and 23% in 65- to 74-year-old men and women, respectively, to 43% for both men and women over 84-years-old. This relationship was stronger in MDC than nationally in five of the six age and gender subgroups examined. Older individuals, women, and residents of communities with prominent Hispanic culture have the greatest reduction in fatal fall risk associated with Hispanic ethnicity. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Neuromuscular Alterations After Ankle Sprains: An Animal Model to Establish Causal Links After Injury.

PubMed

Lepley, Lindsey K; McKeon, Patrick O; Fitzpatrick, Shane G; Beckemeyer, Catherine L; Uhl, Timothy L; Butterfield, Timothy A

2016-10-01

The mechanisms that contribute to the development of chronic ankle instability are not understood. Investigators have developed a hypothetical model in which neuromuscular alterations that stem from damaged ankle ligaments are thought to affect periarticular and proximal muscle activity. However, the retrospective nature of these studies does not allow a causal link to be established. To assess temporal alterations in the activity of 2 periarticular muscles of the rat ankle and 2 proximal muscles of the rat hind limb after an ankle sprain. Controlled laboratory study. Laboratory. Five healthy adult male Long Evans rats (age = 16 weeks, mass = 400.0 ± 13.5 g). Indwelling fine-wire electromyography (EMG) electrodes were implanted surgically into the biceps femoris, medial gastrocnemius, vastus lateralis, and tibialis anterior muscles of the rats. We recorded baseline EMG measurements while the rats walked on a motor-driven treadmill and then induced a closed lateral ankle sprain by overextending the lateral ankle ligaments. After ankle sprain, the rats were placed on the treadmill every 24 hours for 7 days, and we recorded postsprain EMG data. Onset time of muscle activity, phase duration, sample entropy, and minimal detectable change (MDC) were assessed and compared with baseline using 2-tailed dependent t tests. Compared with baseline, delayed onset time of muscle activity was exhibited in the biceps femoris (baseline = -16.7 ± 54.0 milliseconds [ms]) on day 0 (5.2 ± 64.1 ms; t 4 = -4.655, P = .043) and tibialis anterior (baseline = 307.0 ± 64.2 ms) muscles on day 3 (362.5 ± 55.9 ms; t 4 = -5.427, P = .03) and day 6 (357.3 ± 39.6 ms; t 4 = -3.802, P = .02). Longer phase durations were observed for the vastus lateralis (baseline = 321.9 ± 92.6 ms) on day 3 (401.3 ± 101.2 ms; t 3 = -4.001, P = .03), day 4 (404.1 ± 93.0 ms; t 3 = -3.320, P = .048), and day 5 (364.6 ± 105.2 ms; t 3 = -3.963, P = .03) and for the tibialis anterior (baseline = 103.9 ± 16.4 ms) on day 4 (154.9 ± 7.8 ms; t 3 = -4.331, P = .050) and day 6 (141.9 ± 16.2 ms; t 3 = -3.441, P = .03). After sprain, greater sample entropy was found for the vastus lateralis (baseline = 0.7 ± 0.3) on day 6 (0.9 ± 0.4; t 4 = -3.481, P = .03) and day 7 (0.9 ± 0.3; t 4 = -2.637, P = .050) and for the tibialis anterior (baseline = 0.6 ± 0.4) on day 4 (0.9 ± 0.5; t 4 = -3.224, P = .03). The MDC analysis revealed increased sample entropy values for the vastus lateralis and tibialis anterior. Manually inducing an ankle sprain in a rat by overextending the lateral ankle ligaments altered the complexity of muscle-activation patterns, and the alterations exceeded the MDC of the baseline data.

Variation in the Sweet Taste Receptor Gene and Dietary Intake in a Swedish Middle-Aged Population.

PubMed

Habberstad, Caroline; Drake, Isabel; Sonestedt, Emily

2017-01-01

The preference for sweet taste is partially genetically determined. The major allele of the single nucleotide polymorphism rs12033832 in the sweet taste receptor ( TAS1R2 ) has previously been associated with lower sugar sensitivity and higher sugar intake among overweight individuals. The aim of the present study was to examine the association between dietary intake and the TAS1R2 genotype in lean and overweight individuals in the population-based Malmö Diet and Cancer (MDC) cohort using dietary intake data with a high validity. In total, 3,602 participants (46-68 years old) from the MDC cohort who underwent baseline examinations between 1991 and 1994, who were non-smokers without diabetes, and for whom information regarding TAS1R2 rs7534618 (a proxy for rs12033832) was available were included in this study. After excluding individuals with potentially misreported and unstable food habits, 2,204 individuals were retained. A modified dietary history method, including a 7-day food diary of prepared meals, which was specifically designed for the MDC study was used. Only modest associations were observed between dietary intake and the TAS1R2 genotype. We observed slightly stronger associations after excluding individuals with potentially misreported and unstable food habits. Among the participants with a BMI ≥25, the major (T) allele carriers consumed more carbohydrates [TT = 45.2 percentage of energy intake (E%); TG = 45.2E%; GG = 43.7E%; p  = 0.01] and less fat ( p  = 0.03), but these participants did not consume more sucrose than the G-allele carriers. No association was observed between the genotype and dietary intake among the participants with a BMI <25. Although the higher carbohydrate intake among the major allele carriers was consistent with that reported in a previous study, the magnitudes of the associations were substantially smaller. Because we observed no association with sucrose, this allele is unlikely to be useful as a marker of sugar intake in the MDC population.

Network Meta-Analysis on the Effects of DNA Damage Response-Related Gene Mutations on Overall Survival of Breast Cancer Based on TCGA Database.

PubMed

Liu, Chang; Chang, Hong; Li, Xiao-Han; Qi, Ya-Fei; Wang, Jin-Ou; Zhang, Ying; Yang, Xiang-Hong

2017-12-01

The study was conducted for comparing the effects of 12 DNA damage response gene mutations (CHEK1, CHEK2, RAD51, BRCA1, BRCA2, MLH1, MSH2, ATM, ATR, MDC1, PARP1, and FANCF) on the overall survival (OS) of breast cancer (BC) patients. We searched the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database from inception to September 2016. Studies that investigated the association between 12 DNA damage responses related genes and BC consolidated into this Network meta-analysis, by comparing directly or indirectly to evaluate the hazard rate (HR) value and the surface under the cumulative sequence ranking curves (SUCRA). In total four articles were involved. Our results demonstrated 12 DNA damage response gene mutations were associated to the poor prognosis of BC patients (CHEK1: HR = 9.9, 95%CI = 3.6-26.0; CHEK2: HR = 6.9, 95%CI = 3.1-15.0; RAD51: HR = 5.8, 95%CI = 2.2-15.0; BRCA1: HR = 2.8, 95%CI = 1.3-6.1; BRCA2: HR = 3.9, 95%CI = 2.0-7.7; MLH1: HR = 11.0, 95%CI = 3.4-33.0; MSH2: HR = 6.5, 95%CI = 2.1-20.0; ATM: HR = 5.6, 95%CI = 2.6-12.0; ATR: HR = 2.9, 95%CI = 1.3-6.9; MDC1: HR = 15.0, 95%CI = 5.0-45.0; PARP1: HR = 3.4, 95%CI = 1.8-6.6; FANCF: HR = 6.0, 95%CI = 1.8-20.0). SUCRA results revealed that the mutation of MDC1 gene was related to the worst prognosis in patients with BC (SUCRA = 17.32%). DNA damage response gene mutations were associated to the poor prognosis in patients with BC and the BC patients with MDC1 gene mutation had the worst prognosis. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 4728-4734, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The Differential Contribution of the Innate Immune System to a Good Pathological Response in the Breast and Axillary Lymph Nodes Induced by Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Women with Large and Locally Advanced Breast Cancers

PubMed Central

Verma, Chandan; Eremin, Jennifer M.; Cowley, Gerard; Ilyas, Mohammad; Satthaporn, Sukchai; Eremin, Oleg

2017-01-01

The tumour microenvironment consists of malignant cells, stroma, and immune cells. The role of adaptive immunity in inducing a pathological complete response (pCR) in breast cancer with neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) is well studied. The contribution of innate immunity, however, is poorly documented. Breast tumours and axillary lymph nodes (ALNs) from 33 women with large and locally advanced breast cancers (LLABCs) undergoing NAC were immunohistochemically assessed for tumour-infiltrating macrophages (TIMs: M1 and M2), neutrophils (TINs), and dendritic cells (TIDCs) using labelled antibodies and semiquantitative methods. Patients' blood neutrophils (n = 108), DCs (mDC1 and pDC), and their costimulatory molecules (n = 30) were also studied. Pathological results were classified as pCR, good (GPR) or poor (PRR). In breast and metastatic ALNs, high levels of CD163+ TIMs were significantly associated with a pCR. In blood, high levels of neutrophils were significantly associated with pCR in metastatic ALNs, whilst the % of mDC1 and pDC and expression of HLA-DR, mDC1 CD40, and CD83 were significantly reduced. NAC significantly reduced tumour DCs but increased blood DCs. PPRs to NAC had significantly reduced HLA-DR, CD40, and CD86 expression. Our study demonstrated novel findings documenting the differential but important contributions of innate immunity to pCRs in patients with LLABCs undergoing NAC. PMID:28913366

Application of visible/near infrared spectroscopy to quality control of fresh fruits and vegetables in large-scale mass distribution channels: a preliminary test on carrots and tomatoes.

PubMed

Beghi, Roberto; Giovenzana, Valentina; Tugnolo, Alessio; Guidetti, Riccardo

2018-05-01

The market for fruits and vegetables is mainly controlled by the mass distribution channel (MDC). MDC buyers do not have useful instruments to rapidly evaluate the quality of the products. Decisions by the buyers are driven primarily by pricing strategies rather than product quality. Simple, rapid and easy-to-use methods for objectively evaluating the quality of postharvest products are needed. The present study aimed to use visible and near-infrared (vis/NIR) spectroscopy to estimate some qualitative parameters of two low-price products (carrots and tomatoes) of various brands, as well as evaluate the applicability of this technique for use in stores. A non-destructive optical system (vis/NIR spectrophotometer with a reflection probe, spectral range 450-1650 nm) was tested. The differences in quality among carrots and tomatoes purchased from 13 stores on various dates were examined. The reference quality parameters (firmness, water content, soluble solids content, pH and colour) were correlated with the spectral readings. The models derived from the optical data gave positive results, in particular for the prediction of the soluble solids content and the colour, with better results for tomatoes than for carrots. The application of optical techniques may help MDC buyers to monitor the quality of postharvest products, leading to an effective optimization of the entire supply chain. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry.

Highlights from the Third Biennial Strategies for an HIV Cure Meeting: 14-16 November 2016, Bethesda, MD, USA.

PubMed

Lawrence, Diane; Kuo, Lillian; Church, Elizabeth; Poon, Betty; Smiley, Stephen; Sanders-Beer, Brigitte; Dawson, Liza; Salzwedel, Karl

2017-01-01

Since the first Strategies for an HIV Cure Meeting organised by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) in 2012, one of the primary purposes of the meeting has been to facilitate communication and foster collaboration across the NIAID-funded Martin Delaney Collaboratories for HIV cure research (MDC), the broader HIV cure-related research field, and industry and community stakeholders. This year's meeting agenda reflected NIAID's increasing investment over the last 5 years in research to identify strategies for eradicating or achieving long-term remission of HIV infection. Overviews and research highlights were presented from each of the Martin Delaney Collaboratories, as well as projects funded through the Beyond HAART programme, the Consortia for Innovative AIDS Research in Nonhuman Primates (CIAR) programme, the ACTG and IMPAACT clinical trial networks, and the NIAID Vaccine Research Center in hopes of stimulating cross-talk and synergy among these and other programmes focused on HIV cure research. Aside from the oral presentations described here, the meeting also included 75 poster presentations. Finally, community engagement activities and community participation in the MDC was highlighted throughout the first day and in a special session on Day 2. This reflects NIAID's commitment to engage community partners in the earliest stages of research towards curative interventions through the MDC programme. The entire meeting is available for viewing via the NIH VideoCast website at: https://videocast.nih.gov/PastEvents.asp.

Test-retest reliability of posture measurements in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis.

PubMed

Heitz, Pierre-Henri; Aubin-Fournier, Jean-François; Parent, Éric; Fortin, Carole

2018-05-07

Posture changes are a major consequence of IS (IS). Posture changes can lead to psychosocial and physical impairments in adolescents with IS. Therefore, it is important to assess posture but the test-retest reliability of posture measurements still remains unknown in this population. The primary objective was to determine the test-retest reliability of 25 head and trunk posture indices using the Clinical Photographic Postural Assessment Tool (CPPAT) in adolescents with IS. The secondary objective was to determine the standard error of measurement and the minimal detectable change. This is a prospective test-retest reliability study carried out at two tertiary university hospital centers. Forty-one adolescents with IS, aged 10 to 16 years old with curves 10 to 45 o and treated non-operatively were recruited. Two posture assessments were done using the CPPAT five to 10 days apart following a standardized procedure. Photographs were analyzed with the CPPAT software by digitizing reference landmarks placed on the participant by a physiotherapist evaluator. Generalizability theory was used to obtain a coefficient of dependability, standard error of measurement and the minimal detectable change at the 90% confidence interval. This project was supported by the Canadian Pediatric Spine Society (CPSS: 10000$). There is no study-specific conflicts of interest-associated biases. Fourteen of 25 posture indices had a good reliability (ϕ ≥ 0.78), ten of 25 had moderate reliability (ϕ = 0.55 to 0.74) and one had poor reliability (ϕ = 0.45). The most reliable posture indices were waist angles asymmetry (ϕ = 0.93), right waist angle (ϕ = 0.91) and frontal trunk list (ϕ = 0.92). Right sagittal trunk list was the least reliable posture index (ϕ = 0.45). The MDC 90 values ranged from 2.6 to 10.3° for angular measurements and from 8.4 to 35.1 mm for linear measurements. This study demonstrates that most posture indices, especially the trunk posture indices, are reproducible in time among adolescents with IS and provides reference values. Clinicians and researchers can use these reference values in order to assess change in posture over time attributable to treatment effectiveness. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Highly efficient in vivo delivery of PMO into regenerating myotubes and rescue in laminin-α2 chain-null congenital muscular dystrophy mice.

PubMed

Aoki, Yoshitsugu; Nagata, Tetsuya; Yokota, Toshifumi; Nakamura, Akinori; Wood, Matthew J A; Partridge, Terence; Takeda, Shin'ichi

2013-12-15

Phosphorodiamidate morpholino oligomer (PMO)-mediated exon skipping is among the more promising approaches to the treatment of several neuromuscular disorders including Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The main weakness of this approach arises from the low efficiency and sporadic nature of the delivery of charge-neutral PMO into muscle fibers, the mechanism of which is unknown. In this study, to test our hypothesis that muscle fibers take up PMO more efficiently during myotube formation, we induced synchronous muscle regeneration by injection of cardiotoxin into the tibialis anterior muscle of Dmd exon 52-deficient mdx52 and wild-type mice. Interestingly, by in situ hybridization, we detected PMO mainly in embryonic myosin heavy chain-positive regenerating fibers. In addition, we showed that PMO or 2'-O-methyl phosphorothioate is taken up efficiently into C2C12 myotubes when transfected 24-72 h after the induction of differentiation but is poorly taken up into undifferentiated C2C12 myoblasts suggesting efficient uptake of PMO in the early stages of C2C12 myotube formation. Next, we tested the therapeutic potential of PMO for laminin-α2 chain-null dy(3K)/dy(3K) mice: a model of merosin-deficient congenital muscular dystrophy (MDC1A) with active muscle regeneration. We confirmed the recovery of laminin-α2 chain and slightly prolonged life span following skipping of the mutated exon 4 in dy(3K)/dy(3K) mice. These findings support the idea that PMO entry into fibers is dependent on a developmental stage in myogenesis rather than on dystrophinless muscle membranes and provide a platform for developing PMO-mediated therapies for a variety of muscular disorders, such as MDC1A, that involve active muscle regeneration.

Field assessment of balance in 10 to 14 year old children, reproducibility and validity of the Nintendo Wii board.

PubMed

Larsen, Lisbeth Runge; Jørgensen, Martin Grønbech; Junge, Tina; Juul-Kristensen, Birgit; Wedderkopp, Niels

2014-06-10

Because body proportions in childhood are different to those in adulthood, children have a relatively higher centre of mass location. This biomechanical difference and the fact that children's movements have not yet fully matured result in different sway performances in children and adults. When assessing static balance, it is essential to use objective, sensitive tools, and these types of measurement have previously been performed in laboratory settings. However, the emergence of technologies like the Nintendo Wii Board (NWB) might allow balance assessment in field settings. As the NWB has only been validated and tested for reproducibility in adults, the purpose of this study was to examine reproducibility and validity of the NWB in a field setting, in a population of children. Fifty-four 10-14 year-olds from the CHAMPS-Study DK performed four different balance tests: bilateral stance with eyes open (1), unilateral stance on dominant (2) and non-dominant leg (3) with eyes open, and bilateral stance with eyes closed (4). Three rounds of the four tests were completed with the NWB and with a force platform (AMTI). To assess reproducibility, an intra-day test-retest design was applied with a two-hour break between sessions. Bland-Altman plots supplemented by Minimum Detectable Change (MDC) and concordance correlation coefficient (CCC) demonstrated satisfactory reproducibility for the NWB and the AMTI (MDC: 26.3-28.2%, CCC: 0.76-0.86) using Centre Of Pressure path Length as measurement parameter. Bland-Altman plots demonstrated satisfactory concurrent validity between the NWB and the AMTI, supplemented by satisfactory CCC in all tests (CCC: 0.74-0.87). The ranges of the limits of agreement in the validity study were comparable to the limits of agreement of the reproducibility study. Both NWB and AMTI have satisfactory reproducibility for testing static balance in a population of children. Concurrent validity of NWB compared with AMTI was satisfactory. Furthermore, the results from the concurrent validity study were comparable to the reproducibility results of the NWB and the AMTI. Thus, NWB has the potential to replace the AMTI in field settings in studies including children. Future studies are needed to examine intra-subject variability and to test the predictive validity of NWB.

Field assessment of balance in 10 to 14 year old children, reproducibility and validity of the Nintendo Wii board

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Because body proportions in childhood are different to those in adulthood, children have a relatively higher centre of mass location. This biomechanical difference and the fact that children’s movements have not yet fully matured result in different sway performances in children and adults. When assessing static balance, it is essential to use objective, sensitive tools, and these types of measurement have previously been performed in laboratory settings. However, the emergence of technologies like the Nintendo Wii Board (NWB) might allow balance assessment in field settings. As the NWB has only been validated and tested for reproducibility in adults, the purpose of this study was to examine reproducibility and validity of the NWB in a field setting, in a population of children. Methods Fifty-four 10–14 year-olds from the CHAMPS-Study DK performed four different balance tests: bilateral stance with eyes open (1), unilateral stance on dominant (2) and non-dominant leg (3) with eyes open, and bilateral stance with eyes closed (4). Three rounds of the four tests were completed with the NWB and with a force platform (AMTI). To assess reproducibility, an intra-day test-retest design was applied with a two-hour break between sessions. Results Bland-Altman plots supplemented by Minimum Detectable Change (MDC) and concordance correlation coefficient (CCC) demonstrated satisfactory reproducibility for the NWB and the AMTI (MDC: 26.3-28.2%, CCC: 0.76-0.86) using Centre Of Pressure path Length as measurement parameter. Bland-Altman plots demonstrated satisfactory concurrent validity between the NWB and the AMTI, supplemented by satisfactory CCC in all tests (CCC: 0.74-0.87). The ranges of the limits of agreement in the validity study were comparable to the limits of agreement of the reproducibility study. Conclusion Both NWB and AMTI have satisfactory reproducibility for testing static balance in a population of children. Concurrent validity of NWB compared with AMTI was satisfactory. Furthermore, the results from the concurrent validity study were comparable to the reproducibility results of the NWB and the AMTI. Thus, NWB has the potential to replace the AMTI in field settings in studies including children. Future studies are needed to examine intra-subject variability and to test the predictive validity of NWB. PMID:24913461

Cardiopulmonary exercise testing early after stroke using feedback-controlled robotics-assisted treadmill exercise: test-retest reliability and repeatability.

PubMed

Stoller, Oliver; de Bruin, Eling D; Schindelholz, Matthias; Schuster-Amft, Corina; de Bie, Rob A; Hunt, Kenneth J

2014-10-11

Exercise capacity is seriously reduced after stroke. While cardiopulmonary assessment and intervention strategies have been validated for the mildly and moderately impaired populations post-stroke, there is a lack of effective concepts for stroke survivors suffering from severe motor limitations. This study investigated the test-retest reliability and repeatability of cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) using feedback-controlled robotics-assisted treadmill exercise (FC-RATE) in severely motor impaired individuals early after stroke. 20 subjects (age 44-84 years, <6 month post-stroke) with severe motor limitations (Functional Ambulatory Classification 0-2) were selected for consecutive constant load testing (CLT) and incremental exercise testing (IET) within a powered exoskeleton, synchronised with a treadmill and a body weight support system. A manual human-in-the-loop feedback system was used to guide individual work rate levels. Outcome variables focussed on standard cardiopulmonary performance parameters. Relative and absolute test-retest reliability were assessed by intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), standard error of the measurement (SEM), and minimal detectable change (MDC). Mean difference, limits of agreement, and coefficient of variation (CoV) were estimated to assess repeatability. Peak performance parameters during IET yielded good to excellent relative reliability: absolute peak oxygen uptake (ICC =0.82), relative peak oxygen uptake (ICC =0.72), peak work rate (ICC =0.91), peak heart rate (ICC =0.80), absolute gas exchange threshold (ICC =0.91), relative gas exchange threshold (ICC =0.88), oxygen cost of work (ICC =0.87), oxygen pulse at peak oxygen uptake (ICC =0.92), ventilation rate versus carbon dioxide output slope (ICC =0.78). For these variables, SEM was 4-13%, MDC 12-36%, and CoV 0.10-0.36. CLT revealed high mean differences and insufficient test-retest reliability for all variables studied. This study presents first evidence on reliability and repeatability for CPET in severely motor impaired individuals early after stroke using a feedback-controlled robotics-assisted treadmill. The results demonstrate good to excellent test-retest reliability and appropriate repeatability for the most important peak cardiopulmonary performance parameters. These findings have important implications for the design and implementation of cardiovascular exercise interventions in severely impaired populations. Future research needs to develop advanced control strategies to enable the true limit of functional exercise capacity to be reached and to further assess test-retest reliability and repeatability in larger samples.

Validity and reliability of the Traditional Chinese version of the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory in general population.

PubMed

Chuang, Li-Ling; Chuang, Yu-Fen; Hsu, Miao-Ju; Huang, Ying-Zu; Wong, Alice M K; Chang, Ya-Ju

2018-01-01

Fatigue is a common symptom in the general population and has a substantial effect on individuals' quality of life. The Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory (MFI) has been widely used to quantify the impact of fatigue, but no Traditional Chinese translation has yet been validated. The goal of this study was to translate the MFI from English into Traditional Chinese ('the MFI-TC') and subsequently to examine its validity and reliability. The study recruited a convenience sample of 123 people from various age groups in Taiwan. The MFI was examined using a two-step process: (1) translation and back-translation of the instrument; and (2) examination of construct validity, convergent validity, internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and measurement error. The validity and reliability of the MFI-TC were assessed by factor analysis, Spearman rho correlation coefficient, Cronbach's alpha coefficient, intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), minimal detectable change (MDC), and Bland-Altman analysis. All participants completed the Short-Form-36 Health Survey Taiwan Form (SF-36-T) and the Chinese version of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) concurrently to test the convergent validity of the MFI-TC. Test-retest reliability was assessed by readministration of the MFI-TC after a 1-week interval. Factor analysis confirmed the four dimensions of fatigue: general/physical fatigue, reduced activity, reduced motivation, and mental fatigue. A four-factor model was extracted, combining general fatigue and physical fatigue as one factor. The results demonstrated moderate convergent validity when correlating fatigue (MFI-TC) with quality of life (SF-36-T) and sleep disturbances (PSQI) (Spearman's rho = 0.68 and 0.47, respectively). Cronbach's alpha for the MFI-TC total scale and subscales ranged from 0.73 (mental fatigue subscale) to 0.92 (MFI-TC total scale). ICCs ranged from 0.85 (reduced motivation) to 0.94 (MFI-TC total scale), and the MDC ranged from 2.33 points (mental fatigue) to 9.5 points (MFI-TC total scale). The Bland-Altman analyses showed no significant systematic bias between the repeated assessments. The results support the use of the Traditional Chinese version of the MFI as a comprehensive instrument for measuring specific aspects of fatigue. Clinicians and researchers should consider interpreting general fatigue and physical fatigue as one subscale when measuring fatigue in Traditional Chinese-speaking populations.

Validity and reliability of the Traditional Chinese version of the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory in general population

PubMed Central

Chuang, Li-Ling; Chuang, Yu-Fen; Hsu, Miao-Ju; Huang, Ying-Zu; Wong, Alice M. K.

2018-01-01

Background Fatigue is a common symptom in the general population and has a substantial effect on individuals’ quality of life. The Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory (MFI) has been widely used to quantify the impact of fatigue, but no Traditional Chinese translation has yet been validated. The goal of this study was to translate the MFI from English into Traditional Chinese (‘the MFI-TC’) and subsequently to examine its validity and reliability. Methods The study recruited a convenience sample of 123 people from various age groups in Taiwan. The MFI was examined using a two-step process: (1) translation and back-translation of the instrument; and (2) examination of construct validity, convergent validity, internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and measurement error. The validity and reliability of the MFI-TC were assessed by factor analysis, Spearman rho correlation coefficient, Cronbach’s alpha coefficient, intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), minimal detectable change (MDC), and Bland-Altman analysis. All participants completed the Short-Form-36 Health Survey Taiwan Form (SF-36-T) and the Chinese version of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) concurrently to test the convergent validity of the MFI-TC. Test-retest reliability was assessed by readministration of the MFI-TC after a 1-week interval. Results Factor analysis confirmed the four dimensions of fatigue: general/physical fatigue, reduced activity, reduced motivation, and mental fatigue. A four-factor model was extracted, combining general fatigue and physical fatigue as one factor. The results demonstrated moderate convergent validity when correlating fatigue (MFI-TC) with quality of life (SF-36-T) and sleep disturbances (PSQI) (Spearman's rho = 0.68 and 0.47, respectively). Cronbach’s alpha for the MFI-TC total scale and subscales ranged from 0.73 (mental fatigue subscale) to 0.92 (MFI-TC total scale). ICCs ranged from 0.85 (reduced motivation) to 0.94 (MFI-TC total scale), and the MDC ranged from 2.33 points (mental fatigue) to 9.5 points (MFI-TC total scale). The Bland-Altman analyses showed no significant systematic bias between the repeated assessments. Conclusions The results support the use of the Traditional Chinese version of the MFI as a comprehensive instrument for measuring specific aspects of fatigue. Clinicians and researchers should consider interpreting general fatigue and physical fatigue as one subscale when measuring fatigue in Traditional Chinese-speaking populations. PMID:29746466

Multiple descriptions based on multirate coding for JPEG 2000 and H.264/AVC.

PubMed

Tillo, Tammam; Baccaglini, Enrico; Olmo, Gabriella

2010-07-01

Multiple description coding (MDC) makes use of redundant representations of multimedia data to achieve resiliency. Descriptions should be generated so that the quality obtained when decoding a subset of them only depends on their number and not on the particular received subset. In this paper, we propose a method based on the principle of encoding the source at several rates, and properly blending the data encoded at different rates to generate the descriptions. The aim is to achieve efficient redundancy exploitation, and easy adaptation to different network scenarios by means of fine tuning of the encoder parameters. We apply this principle to both JPEG 2000 images and H.264/AVC video data. We consider as the reference scenario the distribution of contents on application-layer overlays with multiple-tree topology. The experimental results reveal that our method favorably compares with state-of-art MDC techniques.

The effect of a multidisciplinary care clinic on the outcomes in pediatric chronic kidney disease.

PubMed

Ajarmeh, Salma; Er, Lee; Brin, Genevieve; Djurdjev, Ognjenka; Dionne, Janis M

2012-10-01

Current best evidence-based practice for children with chronic kidney disease (CKD) attempts to achieve good clinical outcomes through careful management of comorbidities and is likely best achieved with a multidisciplinary care (MDC) CKD clinic. In this retrospective study of children with CKD in British Columbia, Canada, we analyzed clinical outcomes in a cohort of 73 CKD patients from 2003 under a standard care model and a second cohort of 125 CKD patients from 2009 under a MDC clinic model. Patient demographics were similar, but there was a decrease in the percentage of patients with CKD stage 3-5 in 2009 (59 vs. 75 %; p = 0.002), although the absolute number increased. After adjustment for severity of CKD, hemoglobin was significantly higher (13.0 g/dl vs. 12.2 g/dl, p < 0.03), calcium was significantly higher (9.6 mg/dl vs. 9.1 mg/dl, p < 0.001), and albumin was significantly higher (4.4 g/dl vs. 3.8 g/dl, p < 0.001) in the 2009 MDC cohort. The rate of disease progression, assessed by annualized estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) slope, improved from -4.0 ml/min/1.73 m(2) in the 2003 cohort to 0.5 ml/min/1.73 m(2) in the 2009 cohort (p < 0.01). Blood pressure control was better in 2009 although not statistically significant. Multidisciplinary care improved the outcomes of children with CKD especially in anemia management, bone mineral metabolism, nutrition, and renal disease progression.

A New Approach to Investigate the Association between Brain Functional Connectivity and Disease Characteristics of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Topological Neuroimaging Data Analysis.

PubMed

Kyeong, Sunghyon; Park, Seonjeong; Cheon, Keun-Ah; Kim, Jae-Jin; Song, Dong-Ho; Kim, Eunjoo

2015-01-01

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is currently diagnosed by a diagnostic interview, mainly based on subjective reports from parents or teachers. It is necessary to develop methods that rely on objectively measureable neurobiological data to assess brain-behavior relationship in patients with ADHD. We investigated the application of a topological data analysis tool, Mapper, to analyze the brain functional connectivity data from ADHD patients. To quantify the disease severity using the neuroimaging data, the decomposition of individual functional networks into normal and disease components by the healthy state model (HSM) was performed, and the magnitude of the disease component (MDC) was computed. Topological data analysis using Mapper was performed to distinguish children with ADHD (n = 196) from typically developing controls (TDC) (n = 214). In the topological data analysis, the partial clustering results of patients with ADHD and normal subjects were shown in a chain-like graph. In the correlation analysis, the MDC showed a significant increase with lower intelligence scores in TDC. We also found that the rates of comorbidity in ADHD significantly increased when the deviation of the functional connectivity from HSM was large. In addition, a significant correlation between ADHD symptom severity and MDC was found in part of the dataset. The application of HSM and topological data analysis methods in assessing the brain functional connectivity seem to be promising tools to quantify ADHD symptom severity and to reveal the hidden relationship between clinical phenotypic variables and brain connectivity.

Maternal Diet, Metabolic State, and Inflammatory Response Exert Unique and Long-Lasting Influences on Offspring Behavior in Non-Human Primates

PubMed Central

Thompson, Jacqueline R.; Gustafsson, Hanna C.; DeCapo, Madison; Takahashi, Diana L.; Bagley, Jennifer L.; Dean, Tyler A.; Kievit, Paul; Fair, Damien A.; Sullivan, Elinor L.

2018-01-01

Nutritional status influences brain health and gestational exposure to metabolic disorders (e.g. obesity and diabetes) increases the risk of neuropsychiatric disorders. The aim of the present study was to further investigate the role of maternal Western-style diet (WSD), metabolic state, and inflammatory factors in the programming of Japanese macaque offspring behavior. Utilizing structural equation modeling, we investigated the relationships between maternal diet, prepregnancy adiposity, third trimester insulin response, and plasma cytokine levels on 11-month-old offspring behavior. Maternal WSD was associated with greater reactive and ritualized anxiety in offspring. Maternal adiposity and third trimester macrophage-derived chemokine (MDC) exerted opposing effects on offspring high-energy outbursts. Elevated levels of this behavior were associated with low maternal MDC and increased prepregnancy adiposity. This is the first study to show that maternal MDC levels influence offspring behavior. We found no evidence suggesting maternal peripheral inflammatory response mediated the effect of maternal diet and metabolic state on aberrant offspring behavior. Additionally, the extent of maternal metabolic impairment differentially influenced chemokine response. Elevated prepregnancy adiposity suppressed third trimester chemokines, while obesity-induced insulin resistance augmented peripheral chemokine levels. WSD also directly increased maternal interleukin-12. This is the first non-human primate study to delineate the effects of maternal diet and metabolic state on gestational inflammatory environment and subsequent offspring behavior. Our findings give insight to the complex mechanisms by which diet, metabolic state, and inflammation during pregnancy exert unique influences on offspring behavioral regulation. PMID:29740395

Characterization of viscoelastic response and damping of composite materials used in flywheel rotors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Jianmin

The long-term goal for spacecraft flywheel systems with higher energy density at the system level requires new and innovative composite material concepts. Multi-Direction Composite (MDC) offers significant advantages over traditional filament-wound and multi-ring press-fit filament-wound wheels in providing higher energy density (i.e., less mass), better crack resistance, and enhanced safety. However there is a lack of systematic characterization for dynamic properties of MDC composite materials. In order to improve the flywheel materials reliability, durability and life time, it is very important to evaluate the time dependent aging effects and damping properties of MDC material, which are significant dynamic parameter for vibration and sound control, fatigue endurance, and impact resistance. The physical aging effects are quantified based on a set of creep curves measured at different aging time or different aging temperature. One parameter (tau) curve fit was proposed to represent the relationship of aging time and aging temperature between different master curves. The long term mechanical behavior was predicted by obtained master curves. The time and temperature shift factors of matrix were obtained from creep curves and the aging time shift rate were calculated. The aging effects on composite are obtained from experiments and compared with prediction. The mechanical quasi-behavior of MDC composite was analyzed. The correspondence principle was used to relate quasi-static elastic properties of composite materials to time-dependent properties of its constituent materials (i.e., fiber and matrix). The Prony series combined with the multi-data fitting method was applied to inverse Laplace transform and to calculate the time dependent stiffness matrix effectively. Accelerated time-dependent deformation of two flywheel rim designs were studied for a period equivalent to 31 years and are compared with hoop reinforcement only composite. Damping of pure resin and T700/epoxy composite lamina and laminate in longitudinal and transverse directions were investigated experimentally and analytically. The effect of aging on damping was also studied by placing samples at 60°C in an oven for extended periods. Damping master curves versus frequency were constructed from individual curves at different temperatures based on the Arrhenius equation. The damping response of the composite lamina was used to predict the response of laminate composites. Analytical results give close numerical values to experimental results from damping of cantilever beam laminated composite samples.

Neuromuscular Alterations After Ankle Sprains: An Animal Model to Establish Causal Links After Injury

PubMed Central

Lepley, Lindsey K.; McKeon, Patrick O.; Fitzpatrick, Shane G.; Beckemeyer, Catherine L.; Uhl, Timothy L.; Butterfield, Timothy A.

2016-01-01

Context: The mechanisms that contribute to the development of chronic ankle instability are not understood. Investigators have developed a hypothetical model in which neuromuscular alterations that stem from damaged ankle ligaments are thought to affect periarticular and proximal muscle activity. However, the retrospective nature of these studies does not allow a causal link to be established. Objective: To assess temporal alterations in the activity of 2 periarticular muscles of the rat ankle and 2 proximal muscles of the rat hind limb after an ankle sprain. Design: Controlled laboratory study. Setting: Laboratory. Patients or Other Participants: Five healthy adult male Long Evans rats (age = 16 weeks, mass = 400.0 ± 13.5 g). Intervention(s): Indwelling fine-wire electromyography (EMG) electrodes were implanted surgically into the biceps femoris, medial gastrocnemius, vastus lateralis, and tibialis anterior muscles of the rats. We recorded baseline EMG measurements while the rats walked on a motor-driven treadmill and then induced a closed lateral ankle sprain by overextending the lateral ankle ligaments. After ankle sprain, the rats were placed on the treadmill every 24 hours for 7 days, and we recorded postsprain EMG data. Main Outcome Measure(s): Onset time of muscle activity, phase duration, sample entropy, and minimal detectable change (MDC) were assessed and compared with baseline using 2-tailed dependent t tests. Results: Compared with baseline, delayed onset time of muscle activity was exhibited in the biceps femoris (baseline = −16.7 ± 54.0 milliseconds [ms]) on day 0 (5.2 ± 64.1 ms; t4 = −4.655, P = .043) and tibialis anterior (baseline = 307.0 ± 64.2 ms) muscles on day 3 (362.5 ± 55.9 ms; t4 = −5.427, P = .03) and day 6 (357.3 ± 39.6 ms; t4 = −3.802, P = .02). Longer phase durations were observed for the vastus lateralis (baseline = 321.9 ± 92.6 ms) on day 3 (401.3 ± 101.2 ms; t3 = −4.001, P = .03), day 4 (404.1 ± 93.0 ms; t3 = −3.320, P = .048), and day 5 (364.6 ± 105.2 ms; t3 = −3.963, P = .03) and for the tibialis anterior (baseline = 103.9 ± 16.4 ms) on day 4 (154.9 ± 7.8 ms; t3 = −4.331, P = .050) and day 6 (141.9 ± 16.2 ms; t3 = −3.441, P = .03). After sprain, greater sample entropy was found for the vastus lateralis (baseline = 0.7 ± 0.3) on day 6 (0.9 ± 0.4; t4 = −3.481, P = .03) and day 7 (0.9 ± 0.3; t4 = −2.637, P = .050) and for the tibialis anterior (baseline = 0.6 ± 0.4) on day 4 (0.9 ± 0.5; t4 = −3.224, P = .03). The MDC analysis revealed increased sample entropy values for the vastus lateralis and tibialis anterior. Conclusions: Manually inducing an ankle sprain in a rat by overextending the lateral ankle ligaments altered the complexity of muscle-activation patterns, and the alterations exceeded the MDC of the baseline data. PMID:27831747

Oridonin Up-regulates Expression of P21 and Induces Autophagy and Apoptosis in Human Prostate Cancer Cells

PubMed Central

Li, Xiang; Li, Xiang; Wang, Jiaxiong; Ye, Zaiyuan; Li, Ji-Cheng

2012-01-01

Background: Oridonin (ORI) could inhibit the proliferation and induce apoptosis in various cancer cell lines. However, the mechanism is not fully understood. Methods: Human prostate cancer (HPC) cells were cultured in vitro and cell viability was detected by the CCK-8 assay. The ultrastructure changes were observed under transmission electron microscope (TEM). Chemical staining with acridine orange (AO), MDC or DAPI was used to detect acidic vesicular organelles (AVOs) and alternation of DNA. Expression of LC3 and P21 was detected by Western Blot. Apoptotic rates and cell cycle arrest were detected by FACS. Results: Our study demonstrated that after ORI treatment, the proliferations of human prostate cancer (HPC) cell lines PC-3 and LNCaP were inhibited in a concentration and time-dependent manner. ORI induced cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase. A large number of autophagosomes with double-membrane structure and acidic vesicular organelles (AVOs) were detected in the cytoplasm of HPC cells treated with ORI for 24 hours. ORI resulted in the conversion of LC3-I to LC3-II and recruitment of LC3-II to the autophagosomal membranes. Autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine (3-MA) reduced AVOs formation and inhibited LC3-I to LC3-II conversion. At 48 h, DNA fragmentation, chromatin condensation and disappearance of surface microvilli were detected in ORI-treated cells. ORI induced a significant increase in the number of apoptotic cells (PC-3: 5.4% to 27.0%, LNCaP: 5.3% to 31.0%). Promoting autophagy by nutrient starvation increased cell viability, while inhibition of autophagy by 3-MA promoted cell death. The expression of P21 was increased by ORI, which could be completely reversed by the inhibition of autophagy. Conclusions: Our findings indicated that autophagy occurred before the onset of apoptosis and protected cancer cells in ORI-treated HPC cells. P21 was involved in ORI-induced autophagy and apoptosis. Our results provide an experimental basis for understand the anti-tumor mechanism of ORI as treatment for prostate cancer. PMID:22745580

Inflammatory Biomarkers Predict Airflow Obstruction After Exposure to World Trade Center Dust

PubMed Central

Nolan, Anna; Naveed, Bushra; Comfort, Ashley L.; Ferrier, Natalia; Hall, Charles B.; Kwon, Sophia; Kasturiarachchi, Kusali J.; Cohen, Hillel W.; Zeig-Owens, Rachel; Glaser, Michelle S.; Webber, Mayris P.; Aldrich, Thomas K.; Rom, William N.; Kelly, Kerry; Prezant, David J.

2012-01-01

Background: The World Trade Center (WTC) collapse on September 11, 2001, produced airflow obstruction in a majority of firefighters receiving subspecialty pulmonary evaluation (SPE) within 6.5 years post-September 11, 2001. Methods: In a cohort of 801 never smokers with normal pre-September 11, 2001, FEV1, we correlated inflammatory biomarkers and CBC counts at monitoring entry within 6 months of September 11, 2001, with a median FEV1 at SPE (34 months; interquartile range, 25-57). Cases of airflow obstruction had FEV1 less than the lower limit of normal (LLN) (100 of 801; 70 of 100 had serum), whereas control subjects had FEV1 greater than or equal to LLN (153 of 801; 124 of 153 had serum). Results: From monitoring entry to SPE years later, FEV1 declined 12% in cases and increased 3% in control subjects. Case subjects had elevated serum macrophage derived chemokine (MDC), granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), granulocyte colony-stimulating factor, and interferon inducible protein-10 levels. Elevated GM-CSF and MDC increased the risk for subsequent FEV1 less than LLN by 2.5-fold (95% CI, 1.2-5.3) and 3.0-fold (95% CI, 1.4-6.1) in a logistic model adjusted for exposure, BMI, age on September 11, 2001, and polymorphonuclear neutrophils. The model had sensitivity of 38% (95% CI, 27-51) and specificity of 88% (95% CI, 80-93). Conclusions: Inflammatory biomarkers can be risk factors for airflow obstruction following dust and smoke exposure. Elevated serum GM-CSF and MDC levels soon after WTC exposure were associated with increased risk of airflow obstruction in subsequent years. Biomarkers of inflammation may help identify pathways producing obstruction after irritant exposure. PMID:21998260

Individual mediodorsal thalamic neurons project to multiple areas of the rat prefrontal cortex: A single neuron-tracing study using virus vectors.

PubMed

Kuramoto, Eriko; Pan, Shixiu; Furuta, Takahiro; Tanaka, Yasuhiro R; Iwai, Haruki; Yamanaka, Atsushi; Ohno, Sachi; Kaneko, Takeshi; Goto, Tetsuya; Hioki, Hiroyuki

2017-01-01

The prefrontal cortex has an important role in a variety of cognitive and executive processes, and is generally defined by its reciprocal connections with the mediodorsal thalamic nucleus (MD). The rat MD is mainly subdivided into three segments, the medial (MDm), central (MDc), and lateral (MDl) divisions, on the basis of the cytoarchitecture and chemoarchitecture. The MD segments are known to topographically project to multiple prefrontal areas at the population level: the MDm mainly to the prelimbic, infralimbic, and agranular insular areas; the MDc to the orbital and agranular insular areas; and the MDl to the prelimbic and anterior cingulate areas. However, it is unknown whether individual MD neurons project to single or multiple prefrontal cortical areas. In the present study, we visualized individual MD neurons with Sindbis virus vectors, and reconstructed whole structures of MD neurons. While the main cortical projection targets of MDm, MDc, and MDl neurons were generally consistent with those of previous results, it was found that individual MD neurons sent their axon fibers to multiple prefrontal areas, and displayed various projection patterns in the target areas. Furthermore, the axons of single MD neurons were not homogeneously spread, but were rather distributed to form patchy axon arbors approximately 1 mm in diameter. The multiple-area projections and patchy axon arbors of single MD neurons might be able to coactivate cortical neuron groups in distant prefrontal areas simultaneously. Furthermore, considerable heterogeneity of the projection patterns is likely, to recruit the different sets of cortical neurons, and thus contributes to a variety of prefrontal functions. J. Comp. Neurol. 525:166-185, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

A new method for water desalination using microbial desalination cells.

PubMed

Cao, Xiaoxin; Huang, Xia; Liang, Peng; Xiao, Kang; Zhou, Yingjun; Zhang, Xiaoyuan; Logan, Bruce E

2009-09-15

Current water desalination techniques are energy intensive and some use membranes operated at high pressures. It is shown here that water desalination can be accomplished without electrical energy input or high water pressure by using a source of organic matter as the fuel to desalinate water. A microbial fuel cell was modified by placing two membranes between the anode and cathode, creating a middle chamber for water desalination between the membranes. An anion exchange membrane was placed adjacent to the anode, and a cation exchange membrane was positioned next to the cathode. When current was produced by bacteria on the anode, ionic species in the middle chamber were transferred into the two electrode chambers, desalinating the water in the middle chamber. Proof-of-concept experiments for this approach, using what we call a microbial desalination cell (MDC), was demonstrated using water at different initial salt concentrations (5, 20, and 35 g/L) with acetate used as the substrate for the bacteria. The MDC produced a maximum of 2 W/m2 (31 W/m3) while at the same time removing about 90% of the salt in a single desalination cycle. As the salt was removed from the middle chamber the ohmic resistance of the MDC (measured using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy) increased from 25 Omega to 970 Omega at the end of the cycle. This increased resistance was reflected by a continuous decrease in the voltage produced over the cycle. These results demonstrate for the first time the possibility for a new method for water desalination and power production that uses only a source of biodegradable organic matter and bacteria.

Multiple description distributed image coding with side information for mobile wireless transmission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Min; Song, Daewon; Chen, Chang Wen

2005-03-01

Multiple description coding (MDC) is a source coding technique that involves coding the source information into multiple descriptions, and then transmitting them over different channels in packet network or error-prone wireless environment to achieve graceful degradation if parts of descriptions are lost at the receiver. In this paper, we proposed a multiple description distributed wavelet zero tree image coding system for mobile wireless transmission. We provide two innovations to achieve an excellent error resilient capability. First, when MDC is applied to wavelet subband based image coding, it is possible to introduce correlation between the descriptions in each subband. We consider using such a correlation as well as potentially error corrupted description as side information in the decoding to formulate the MDC decoding as a Wyner Ziv decoding problem. If only part of descriptions is lost, however, their correlation information is still available, the proposed Wyner Ziv decoder can recover the description by using the correlation information and the error corrupted description as side information. Secondly, in each description, single bitstream wavelet zero tree coding is very vulnerable to the channel errors. The first bit error may cause the decoder to discard all subsequent bits whether or not the subsequent bits are correctly received. Therefore, we integrate the multiple description scalar quantization (MDSQ) with the multiple wavelet tree image coding method to reduce error propagation. We first group wavelet coefficients into multiple trees according to parent-child relationship and then code them separately by SPIHT algorithm to form multiple bitstreams. Such decomposition is able to reduce error propagation and therefore improve the error correcting capability of Wyner Ziv decoder. Experimental results show that the proposed scheme not only exhibits an excellent error resilient performance but also demonstrates graceful degradation over the packet loss rate.

Impacts of spatial resolution and representation of flow connectivity on large-scale simulation of floods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mateo, Cherry May R.; Yamazaki, Dai; Kim, Hyungjun; Champathong, Adisorn; Vaze, Jai; Oki, Taikan

2017-10-01

Global-scale river models (GRMs) are core tools for providing consistent estimates of global flood hazard, especially in data-scarce regions. Due to former limitations in computational power and input datasets, most GRMs have been developed to use simplified representations of flow physics and run at coarse spatial resolutions. With increasing computational power and improved datasets, the application of GRMs to finer resolutions is becoming a reality. To support development in this direction, the suitability of GRMs for application to finer resolutions needs to be assessed. This study investigates the impacts of spatial resolution and flow connectivity representation on the predictive capability of a GRM, CaMa-Flood, in simulating the 2011 extreme flood in Thailand. Analyses show that when single downstream connectivity (SDC) is assumed, simulation results deteriorate with finer spatial resolution; Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency coefficients decreased by more than 50 % between simulation results at 10 km resolution and 1 km resolution. When multiple downstream connectivity (MDC) is represented, simulation results slightly improve with finer spatial resolution. The SDC simulations result in excessive backflows on very flat floodplains due to the restrictive flow directions at finer resolutions. MDC channels attenuated these effects by maintaining flow connectivity and flow capacity between floodplains in varying spatial resolutions. While a regional-scale flood was chosen as a test case, these findings should be universal and may have significant impacts on large- to global-scale simulations, especially in regions where mega deltas exist.These results demonstrate that a GRM can be used for higher resolution simulations of large-scale floods, provided that MDC in rivers and floodplains is adequately represented in the model structure.

Mathematical modeling based evaluation and simulation of boron removal in bioelectrochemical systems.

PubMed

Ping, Qingyun; Abu-Reesh, Ibrahim M; He, Zhen

2016-11-01

Boron removal is an arising issue in desalination plants due to boron's toxicity. As an emerging treatment concept, bioelectrochemical systems (BES) can achieve potentially cost-effective boron removal by taking advantage of cathodic-produced alkali. Prior studies have demonstrated successful removal of boron in microbial desalination cells (MDCs) and microbial fuel cells (MFCs), both of which are representative BES. Herein, mathematical models were developed to further evaluate boron removal by different BES and understand the key operating factors. The models delivered very good prediction of the boron concentration in the MDC integrated with Donnan Dialysis (DD) system with the lowest relative root-mean-square error (RMSE) of 0.00%; the predication of the MFC performance generated the highest RMSE of 18.55%. The model results of salt concentration, solution pH, and current generation were well fitted with experimental data for RMSE values mostly below 10%. The long term simulation of the MDC-DD system suggests that the accumulation of salt in the catholyte/stripping solution could have a positive impact on the removal of boron due to osmosis-driven convection. The current generation in the MDC may have little influence on the boron removal, while in the MFC the current-driven electromigration can contribute up to 40% of boron removal. Osmosis-induced convection transport of boron could be the major driving force for boron removal to a low level <2mgL(-1). The ratio between the anolyte and the catholyte flow rates should be kept >22.2 in order to avoid boron accumulation in the anolyte effluent. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Health and Functioning of Families of Children With Special Health Care Needs Cared for in Home Care, Long-term Care, and Medical Day Care Settings.

PubMed

Caicedo, Carmen

2015-06-01

To examine and compare child and parent or guardian physical and mental health outcomes in families with children with special health care needs who have medically complex technology-dependent needs in home care, long-term care (LTC), and medical day care (MDC) settings. The number of children requiring medically complex technology-dependent care has grown exponentially. In this study, options for their care are home care, LTC, or MDC. Comparison of child and parent/guardian health outcomes is unknown. Using repeated measures data were collected from 84 dyads (parent/guardian, medically complex technology-dependent child) for 5 months using Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Generic Core Module 4.0 and Family Impact Module Data analysis: χ(2), RM-ANCOVA. There were no significant differences in overall physical health, mental health, and functioning of children by care setting. Most severely disabled children were in home care; moderately disabled in MDC; children in vegetative state LTC; however, parents perceived children's health across care setting as good to excellent. Parents/guardians from home care reported the poorest physical health including being tired during the day, too tired to do the things they like to do, feeling physically weak, or feeling sick and had cognitive difficulties, difficulties with worry, communication, and daily activities. Parents/guardians from LTC reported the best physical health with time and energy for a social life and employment. Trends in health care policy indicate a movement away from LTC care to care in the family home where data indicate these parents/guardians are already mentally and functionally challenged.

Reliability and validity of the cross-culturally adapted Turkish version of the Core Outcome Measures Index for low back pain.

PubMed

Çetin, Engin; Çelik, Evrim Coşkun; Acaroğlu, Emre; Berk, Haluk

2018-01-01

To produce a cross-culturally adapted and validated Turkish version of The Core Outcome Measure Index (COMI) Back questionnaire. Ninety-six Turkish-speaking patients with non-specific low back pain (LBP) were recruited from orthopedic and physical therapy outpatient clinics in a public hospital. They completed a booklet of questionnaires containing Turkish version of COMI, adjectival pain scale, Roland Morris disability questionnaire, European 5 Dimension Questionnaire and brief version of World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire. Within following 7-14 days, 67 patients, reported no or minimal changes in their back pain status, completed the Turkish COMI again to assess reproducibility. Data quality was good with very few missing answers. COMI summary index score displayed 3% floor effects and no ceiling effects. The correlations between the COMI summary index score and each of the full instrument whole scores were found to be excellent to very good (ρ = - 0.81 to 0.74). Reliability expressed as intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was 0.95 (95% CI 0.91-0.97). Standard error of measurement (SEM agreement ) was acceptable at 0.41 and the minimum detectable change (MDC 95% ) was 1.14. Turkish version of the COMI has acceptable psychometric properties. It is a valid and reliable instrument and cross-culturally adapted, in accordance with established guidelines, for the use by Turkish-speaking patients. It can be recommended for use in evaluation of patients with chronic LBP in daily practice, in international multicenter studies and in spine registry systems.

Removal efficiency of nickel and lead from industrial wastewater using microbial desalination cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mirzaienia, Fariba; Asadipour, Ali; Jafari, Ahmad Jonidi; Malakootian, Mohammad

2017-11-01

Microbial desalination cell (MDC) is a new method of desalination. Its energy is supplied through microbial metabolism of organic materials. In this study, synthetic samples were provided with concentration of 25, 50, 75, 100 mg/L Ni and Pb. Removal efficiency of each metal was analyzed after 60, 90, 120 min, psychrophilic, mesophilic, thermophilic and 3-4, 4-5, 5-6 mg/L dissolved oxygen. Optimum conditions for removing Ni and Pb were achieved in 100, 4.5 and 4.6 mg/L dissolved oxygen, respectively, 26 °C and 120 min. Nickel and led were removed from wastewaters of Isfahan electroplating industry and steel company. The maximum removal efficiencies of Ni and Pb in real samples were 68.81 and 70.04%. MDC can be considered as a good choice for removing Ni and Pb from industrial wastewater. Due to microorganisms for decomposing organic material in municipal wastewater, metals from industrial wastewater can be removed simultaneously.

[Approaches to development and implementation of the medical information system for military-medical commission of the multidisciplinary military-medical organisation].

PubMed

Kuvshinov, K E; Klipak, V M; Chaplyuk, A L; Moskovko, V M; Belyshev, D V; Zherebko, O A

2015-06-01

The current task of the implementation of medical information systems in the military and medical organizations is an automation of the military-medical expertise as one of the most important activities. In this regard, noteworthy experience of the 9th Medical Diagnostic Centre (9th MDC), where on the basis of medical information system "Interi PROMIS" for the first time was implemented the automation of the work of military medical commission. The given paper presents an algorithm for constructing of the information system for the military-medical examination; detailed description of its elements is given. According to military servicemen the implementation of the Military Medical Commission (MMC) subsystem of the medical information system implemented into the 9th MDC has reduced the time required for the MMC and paperwork, greatly facilitate the work of physicians and medical specialists on military servicemen examination. This software can be widely applied in ambulatory and hospital practice, especially in case of mass military-medical examinations.

A Study of Time-dependent and Anisotropic Effects on the Deformation Response of Two Flywheel Designs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Saleeb, Atef F.; Arnold, Steven M.; Al-Zoubi, Nasser R.

2003-01-01

The influence of material time dependency and anisotropy in the context of two specific flywheel designs-preload and multi-directional composite (MDC)--is investigated. In particular, we focus on the following aspects: 1) geometric constraints, 2) material constraints, 3) loading type, and 4) the fundamental character of the time-dependent response, i.e., reversible or irreversible. The bulk of the results presented were obtained using a composite (PMC IM7/8552 at 135 C) material system. The material was characterized using a general multimechanism hereditary (viscoelastoplastic) model. As a general conclusion, the results have clearly shown that both the preload and the MDC rotor designs are significantly affected by time-dependent material behavior, which may impact the state of rotor balance and potentially reduce its operating life. In view of the results of the parametric studies and predictions made in the present study, the need for actual experimentation focusing on the time-dependent behavior of full-scale flywheel rotors is self-evident.

Brain metabolic correlates of decision making in amnestic mild cognitive impairment.

PubMed

Griffith, H Randall; Okonkwo, Ozioma C; den Hollander, Jan A; Belue, Katherine; Copeland, Jacqueline; Harrell, Lindy E; Brockington, John C; Clark, David G; Marson, Daniel C

2010-01-01

Persons with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (MCI) have subtle impairments in medical decision-making capacity (MDC). We examined the relationship between proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) and MDC in MCI. Twenty-nine MCI patients and 42 controls underwent MRS to obtain ratios of N-acetylaspartate (NAA)/Creatine (Cr), Choline (Cho)/Cr, and myo-Inositol (mI)/Cr of the posterior cingulate. They also completed the Capacity to Consent to Treatment Instrument (CCTI), a vignette-based instrument measuring decisional standards of expressing choice, appreciating consequences of choice, providing rational reasons for choice, and understanding treatment choices. Patients showed abnormal MRS ratios of mI/Cr and Cho/Cr compared to controls, and impairments on the CCTI understanding and reasoning Standards. Performance on the reasoning standard of the CCTI was correlated with NAA/Cr (r = .46, p < .05). The relationship of NAA/Cr with decision-making suggests a role for posterior cortical neuronal functioning in performance of complex IADLs in MCI.

Beam impingement angle effects on secondary electron emission characteristics of textured pyrolytic graphite

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Curren, A. N.; Jensen, K. A.

1984-01-01

Experimentally determined values of true secondary electron emission and relative values of reflected primary electron yield for untreated and ion-textured pyrolytic graphite over a range of primary electron energy levels and electron beam impingement angles are presented. Information required to develop high efficiency multistage depressed collectors (MDC's) for microwave amplifier traveling-wave tubes for space communication and aircraft applications is provided. To attain the highest possible MDC efficiencies, the electrode surfaces must have low secondary electron emission characteristics. Pyrolytic graphite, a chemically vapor-deposited material, is a particularly promising candidate for this application. The pyrolytic graphite surfaces studied were tested over a range of primary electron beam energies and beam impingement angles from 200 to 2000 eV and direct (0 deg) to near-grazing angles (85 deg), respectively. Surfaces both parallel to and normal to the planes of material deposition were examined. The true secondary electron emission and reflected primary electron yield characteristics of the pyrolytic graphite surfaces are compared to those of sooted control surfaces.

A statistical walk through the IAU MDC database

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Andreić, Željko; Šegon, Damir; Vida, Denis

2014-02-01

The IAU MDC database is an important tool for the study of meteor showers. Though the history, the amount of data in the database for particular showers, and also their extent, varied significantly. Thus, a systematic check of the current database (as of 1st of June, 2014) was performed, and the results are reported and discussed in this paper. The most obvious one is that the database contains showers for which only basic radiant data are available, showers for which a full set of radiant and orbital data is provided, and showers with data span anywhere in between. As a lot of current work on meteor showers involves D-criteria for orbital similarity, this automatically excludes showers without the orbital data from such work. A test run to compare showers only by their radiant data was performed, and was found to be inadequate in testing for shower similarities. A few inconsistencies and typographic errors were found and are briefly described here.

Low-current traveling wave tube for use in the microwave power module

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Palmer, Raymond W.; Ramins, Peter; Force, Dale A.; Dayton, James A.; Ebihara, Ben T.; Gruber, Robert P.

1993-01-01

The results of a traveling-wave-tube/multistage depressed-collector (TWT-MDC) design study in support of the Advanced Research Projects Agency/Department of Defense (ARPA/DOD) Microwave Power Module (MPM) Program are described. The study stressed the possible application of dynamic and other tapers to the RF output circuit of the MPM traveling wave tube as a means of increasing the RF and overall efficiencies and reducing the required beam current (perveance). The results indicate that a highly efficient, modified dynamic velocity taper (DVT) circuit can be designed for the broadband MPM application. The combination of reduced cathode current (lower perveance) and increased RF efficiency leads to (1) a substantially higher overall efficiency and reduction in the prime power to the MPM, and (2) substantially reduced levels of MDC and MPM heat dissipation, which simplify the cooling problems. However, the selected TWT circuit parameters need to be validated by cold test measurements on actual circuits.

Test-retest reliability and responsiveness of gaze stability and dynamic visual acuity in high school and college football players.

PubMed

Kaufman, Denise R; Puckett, Mallory J; Smith, Mitchell J; Wilson, Kyle S; Cheema, Rebecca; Landers, Merrill R

2014-08-01

The purpose of this study was to establish reliability and responsiveness of the dynamic visual acuity test (DVAT) at head speeds of 150-200 degrees per second (deg/s) and the gaze stabilization test (GST) in high school and college football players. Reliability design. Fifty high school and college football athletes completed the DVAT and GST in both the yaw (horizontal) and pitch (vertical) planes twice within two weeks. Test-retest reliability for the DVAT was good in yaw, Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) = 0.770, and moderate/good in pitch, ICC = 0.725. Minimal detectable change (MDC) was 0.16 logMAR for yaw and 0.21 logMAR for pitch. GST reliability was moderate in yaw, ICC = 0.634, and poor in pitch, ICC = 0.411. MDCs were 73.4 deg/s (yaw) and 81.2 deg/s (pitch). The DVAT is reliable at high head speeds in high school and college football athletes in both yaw and pitch. GST head speeds were higher than previously reported in the literature, but reliability of this tool for this population was poor to moderate. From a clinical perspective, DVAT may be reliably used in the assessment of high school and college football athletes; however, GST requires further evaluation. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Agreement between the spatio-temporal gait parameters from treadmill-based photoelectric cell and the instrumented treadmill system in healthy young adults and stroke patients.

PubMed

Lee, Myungmo; Song, Changho; Lee, Kyoungjin; Shin, Doochul; Shin, Seungho

2014-07-14

Treadmill gait analysis was more advantageous than over-ground walking because it allowed continuous measurements of the gait parameters. The purpose of this study was to investigate the concurrent validity and the test-retest reliability of the OPTOGait photoelectric cell system against the treadmill-based gait analysis system by assessing spatio-temporal gait parameters. Twenty-six stroke patients and 18 healthy adults were asked to walk on the treadmill at their preferred speed. The concurrent validity was assessed by comparing data obtained from the 2 systems, and the test-retest reliability was determined by comparing data obtained from the 1st and the 2nd session of the OPTOGait system. The concurrent validity, identified by the intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC [2, 1]), coefficients of variation (CVME), and 95% limits of agreement (LOA) for the spatial-temporal gait parameters, were excellent but the temporal parameters expressed as a percentage of the gait cycle were poor. The test-retest reliability of the OPTOGait System, identified by ICC (3, 1), CVME, 95% LOA, standard error of measurement (SEM), and minimum detectable change (MDC95%) for the spatio-temporal gait parameters, was high. These findings indicated that the treadmill-based OPTOGait System had strong concurrent validity and test-retest reliability. This portable system could be useful for clinical assessments.

Reliability of tristimulus colourimetry in the assessment of cutaneous bruise colour.

PubMed

Scafide, Katherine N; Sheridan, Daniel J; Taylor, Laura A; Hayat, Matthew J

2016-06-01

Bruising is one of the most common types of injury clinicians observe among victims of violence and other trauma patients. However, research has shown commonly used qualitative description of cutaneous bruise colour via the naked eye is subjective and unreliable. No published work has formally evaluated the reliability of tristimulus colourimetry as an alternative for assessing bruise colour, despite its clinical and research applications in accurately assessing skin colour. The purpose of this study was to systematically evaluate the test-retest and inter-observer reliability of tristimulus colourimetry in the assessment of cutaneous bruise colour. Two researchers obtained repeated tristimulus colourimetry measures of cutaneous bruises with participants of diverse skin colour. Measures were obtained using the Minolta CR-400 Chomameter. Commission Internationale d'Eclairage (CIE) L*a*b* colour space was used. Data was analysed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), Cronbach's alpha, and minimal detectable change (MDC) on all three L*a*b* values. The colorimeter demonstrated excellent test-retest or intra-rater reliability (L* ICC=0.999; a* ICC=0.973; b* ICC=0.892) and inter-rater reliability (L* ICC=0.997; a* ICC=0.976; b* ICC=0.982). With consistent placement, the tristimulus colourimetry is reliable for the objective assessment and documentation of cutaneous bruise colour for purposes of clinical practice and research. Recommendations for use in practice/research are provided. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Analysis of trichloroethylene-induced global DNA hypomethylation in hepatic L-02 cells by liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Zhang, Hang; Hong, Wen-Xu; Ye, Jinbo; Yang, Xifei; Ren, Xiaohu; Huang, Aibo; Yang, Linqing; Zhou, Li; Huang, Haiyan; Wu, Desheng; Huang, Xinfeng; Zhuang, Zhixiong; Liu, Jianjun

2014-04-04

Trichloroethylene (TCE), a major occupational and environmental pollutant, has been recently associated with aberrant epigenetic changes in experimental animals and cultured cells. TCE is known to cause severe hepatotoxicity; however, the association between epigenetic alterations and TCE-induced hepatotoxicity are not yet well explored. DNA methylation, catalyzed by enzymes known as DNA methyltransferases (DNMT), is a major epigenetic modification that plays a critical role in regulating many cellular processes. In this study, we analyzed the TCE-induced effect on global DNA methylation and DNMT enzymatic activity in human hepatic L-02 cells. A sensitive and quantitative method combined with liquid chromatography and electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS/MS) was validated and utilized for assessing the altered DNA methylation in TCE-induced L-02 cells. Quantification was accomplished in multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode by monitoring a transition pair of m/z 242.1 (molecular ion)/126.3 (fragment ion) for 5-mdC and m/z 268.1/152.3 for dG. The correlation coefficient of calibration curves between 5-mdC and dG was higher than 0.9990. The intra-day and inter-day relative standard derivation values (RSD) were on the range of 0.53-7.09% and 0.40-2.83%, respectively. We found that TCE exposure was able to significantly decrease the DNA methylation and inhibit DNMT activity in L-02 cells. Our results not only reveal the association between TCE exposure and epigenetic alterations, but also provide an alternative mass spectrometry-based method for rapid and accurate assessment of chemical-induced altered DNA methylation in mammal cells. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Fasting levels of growth hormone are associated with carotid intima media thickness but are not affected by fluvastatin treatment.

PubMed

Hallengren, Erik; Almgren, Peter; Rosvall, Maria; Östling, Gerd; Persson, Margaretha; Bergmann, Andreas; Struck, Joachim; Engström, Gunnar; Hedblad, Bo; Melander, Olle

2017-05-16

Growth hormone (GH) has been linked to cardiovascular disease but the exact mechanism of this association is still unclear. We here test if the fasting levels of GH are cross-sectionally associated with carotid intima media thickness (IMT) and whether treatment with fluvastatin affects the fasting level of GH. We examined the association between GH and IMT in 4425 individuals (aged 46-68 years) included in the baseline examination (1991-1994) of the Malmö Diet and Cancer cardiovascular cohort (MDC-CC). From that cohort we then studied 472 individuals (aged 50-70 years) who also participated (1994-1999) in the β-Blocker Cholesterol-Lowering Asymptomatic Plaque Study (BCAPS), a randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled, single-center clinical trial. Using multivariate linear regression models we related the change in GH-levels at 12 months compared with baseline to treatment with 40 mg fluvastatin once daily. In MDC-CC fasting values of GH exhibited a positive cross-sectional relation to the IMT at the carotid bulb independent of traditional cardiovascular risk factors (p = 0.002). In a gender-stratified analysis the correlation were significant for males (p = 0.005), but not for females (p = 0.09). Treatment with fluvastatin was associated with a minor reduction in the fasting levels of hs-GH in males (p = 0.05) and a minor rise in the same levels among females (p = 0.05). We here demonstrate that higher fasting levels of GH are associated with thicker IMT in the carotid bulb in males. Treatment with fluvastatin for 12 months only had a minor, and probably not clinically relevant, effect on the fasting levels of hs-GH.

Improved traveling wave tubes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Buck, E.

1980-01-01

After a brief description of how a typical TWT works, multi-stage depressed collectors (MDC) are discussed. A quick method for computing the expected efficiency of a well engineered TWT is outlined to aid in estimating power supply needs. Applications of improved TWTs and a new power supply are suggested.

Lessons learned from the USEPA Environmental Monitoring and Assessment Program for Great River Ecosystems

EPA Science Inventory

We assessed the North American mid-continent great rivers (Upper Mississippi, Missouri, and Ohio). We estimated the extent of each river in most (MDC) or least-disturbed condition (LDC) based on multiple biological response indicators (fish and macroinvertebrates, trophic state ...

Conditions for Scale and Sustainability. Brief Four

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Levin, Stephanie; Duffy, Mark; Dever, Kelly

2012-01-01

Math experts developed Formative Assessment Lessons that teachers can incorporate throughout the year's curriculum. Both tools target the "instructional core." A study by Research for Action (RFA) examining the first year of piloting the Literacy Design Collaborative (LDC) and Math Design Collaborative (MDC) tools (2010-11) found…

Functional and genomic analyses of alpha-solenoid proteins.

PubMed

Fournier, David; Palidwor, Gareth A; Shcherbinin, Sergey; Szengel, Angelika; Schaefer, Martin H; Perez-Iratxeta, Carol; Andrade-Navarro, Miguel A

2013-01-01

Alpha-solenoids are flexible protein structural domains formed by ensembles of alpha-helical repeats (Armadillo and HEAT repeats among others). While homology can be used to detect many of these repeats, some alpha-solenoids have very little sequence homology to proteins of known structure and we expect that many remain undetected. We previously developed a method for detection of alpha-helical repeats based on a neural network trained on a dataset of protein structures. Here we improved the detection algorithm and updated the training dataset using recently solved structures of alpha-solenoids. Unexpectedly, we identified occurrences of alpha-solenoids in solved protein structures that escaped attention, for example within the core of the catalytic subunit of PI3KC. Our results expand the current set of known alpha-solenoids. Application of our tool to the protein universe allowed us to detect their significant enrichment in proteins interacting with many proteins, confirming that alpha-solenoids are generally involved in protein-protein interactions. We then studied the taxonomic distribution of alpha-solenoids to discuss an evolutionary scenario for the emergence of this type of domain, speculating that alpha-solenoids have emerged in multiple taxa in independent events by convergent evolution. We observe a higher rate of alpha-solenoids in eukaryotic genomes and in some prokaryotic families, such as Cyanobacteria and Planctomycetes, which could be associated to increased cellular complexity. The method is available at http://cbdm.mdc-berlin.de/~ard2/.

Pseudolaric Acid B Induced Cell Cycle Arrest, Autophagy and Senescence in Murine Fibrosarcoma L929 Cell

PubMed Central

hua Yu, Jing; yu Liu, Chun; bin Zheng, Gui; Zhang, Li Ying; hui Yan, Ming; yan Zhang, Wen; ying Meng, Xian; fang Yu, Xiao

2013-01-01

Objective: PAB induced various cancer cell apoptosis, cell cycle arrest and senescence. But in cell line murine fibrosarcoma L929, PAB did not induce apoptosis, but autophagy, therefore it was thought by us as a good model to research the relationship of cell cycle arrest, autophagy and senescence bypass apoptosis. Methods: Inhibitory ratio was assessed by 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) analysis. Phase contrast microscopy visualized cell morphology. Hoechst 33258 staining for nuclear change, propidium iodode (PI) staining for cell cycle, monodansylcadaverine (MDC) staining for autophagy, and rodanmine 123 staining for mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) were measured by fluorescence microscopy or flowcytometry. Apoptosis was determined by DNA ladder test. Protein kinase C (PKC) activity was detected by PKC assay kit. SA-β-galactosidase assay was used to detect senescence. Protein expression was examined by western blot. Results: PAB inhibited L929 cell growth in time-and dose-dependent manner. At 12 h, 80 μmol/L PAB induced obvious mitotic arrest; at 24 h, PAB began to induce autophagy; at 36 h, cell-treated with PAB slip into G1 cell cycle; and 3 d PAB induced senescence. In time sequence PAB induced firstly cell cycle arrest, then autophagy, then slippage into G1 phase, lastly senescence. Senescent cells had high level of autophagy, inhibiting autophagy led to apoptosis, and no senescence. PAB activated PKC activity to induce cell cycle arrest, autophagy and senescence, inhibiting PKC activity suppressed cell cycle arrest, autophagy and senescence. Conclusion: PAB induced cell cycle arrest, autophagy and senescence in murine fibrosarcoma L929 cell through PKC. PMID:23630435

Right from the Start: An Institutional Perspective on Developmental Education Reform. Practitioner Briefs

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lass, Leslie

2014-01-01

This overview introduces "Right from the Start: An Institutional Perspective on Developmental Education Reform," a series of three practitioner briefs on developmental education. Created by Achieving the Dream and MDC, the briefs spotlight successful reform efforts in developmental education at seven Achieving the Dream colleges. [The…

An Assessment of Stressor Extent and Biological Condition in the North American Mid-continent Great Rivers (USA)

EPA Science Inventory

We assessed the North American mid-continent great rivers (Upper Mississippi, Missouri, and Ohio). We estimated the extent of each river in most- (MDC) or least-disturbed condition (LDC) based on multiple biological response indicators: fi sh and macroinvertebrate, trophic stat...

Value of quantitative MRI parameters in predicting and evaluating clinical outcome in conservatively treated patients with chronic midportion Achilles tendinopathy: A prospective study.

PubMed

Tsehaie, J; Poot, D H J; Oei, E H G; Verhaar, J A N; de Vos, R J

2017-07-01

To evaluate whether baseline MRI parameters provide prognostic value for clinical outcome, and to study correlation between MRI parameters and clinical outcome. Observational prospective cohort study. Patients with chronic midportion Achilles tendinopathy were included and performed a 16-week eccentric calf-muscle exercise program. Outcome measurements were the validated Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment-Achilles (VISA-A) questionnaire and MRI parameters at baseline and after 24 weeks. The following MRI parameters were assessed: tendon volume (Volume), tendon maximum cross-sectional area (CSA), tendon maximum anterior-posterior diameter (AP), and signal intensity (SI). Intra-class correlation coefficients (ICCs) and minimum detectable changes (MDCs) for each parameter were established in a reliability analysis. Twenty-five patients were included and complete follow-up was achieved in 20 patients. The average VISA-A scores increased significantly with 12.3 points (27.6%). The reliability was fair-good for all MRI-parameters with ICCs>0.50. Average tendon volume and CSA decreased significantly with 0.28cm 3 (5.2%) and 4.52mm 2 (4.6%) respectively. Other MRI parameters did not change significantly. None of the baseline MRI parameters were univariately associated with VISA-A change after 24 weeks. MRI SI increase over 24 weeks was positively correlated with the VISA-A score improvement (B=0.7, R 2 =0.490, p=0.02). Tendon volume and CSA decreased significantly after 24 weeks of conservative treatment. As these differences were within the MDC limits, they could be a result of a measurement error. Furthermore, MRI parameters at baseline did not predict the change in symptoms, and therefore have no added value in providing a prognosis in daily clinical practice. Copyright © 2017 Sports Medicine Australia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Robust Implementation of MDC: Teacher Perceptions of Tool Use and Outcomes. Brief Three

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lawrence, Nancy; Sanders, Felicia

2012-01-01

The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has invested in the development and dissemination of high-quality instructional and formative assessment tools to support teachers' incorporation of the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) into their classroom instruction. Lessons from the first generation of standards-based reforms suggest that intense…

Pathogenicity of Phytophthora austrocedrae on Austrocedrus chilensis and its relation with mal del ciprés in Patagonia

Treesearch

A. G. Greslebin; E. M. Hansen

2010-01-01

Field observations, isolations and pathogenicity tests were performed on Austrocedrus chilensis (Cupressaceae) trees to determine the pathogenicity of Phytophthora austrocedrae and its role in the aetiology of the cypress disease mal del ciprés (MDC) in Argentina. It was found that P. austrocedrae...

Life support system cost study: Addendum to cost analysis of carbon dioxide concentrators

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yakut, M. M.

1973-01-01

New cost data are presented for the Hydrogen-Depolarized Carbon Dioxide Concentrator (HDC), based on modifying the concentrator to delete the quick disconnect valves and filters included in the system model defined in MDC-G4631. System description, cost data and a comparison between CO2 concentrator costs are presented.

The State of the South, 2004

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Greene, Alison; Guillory, Ferrel; Lipsitz, Joan; Rubin, Sarah

2004-01-01

State of the South 2004 is the fifth edition in MDC's State of the South series, which examines the region's economic and demographic landscape and how Southerners are faring within it. This edition considers the region through the lens of public education, 50 years after the Supreme Court's Brown v. Board of Education decision. That…

Bioelectrochemical desalination and electricity generation in microbial desalination cell with dewatered sludge as fuel.

PubMed

Meng, Fanyu; Jiang, Junqiu; Zhao, Qingliang; Wang, Kun; Zhang, Guodong; Fan, Qingxin; Wei, Liangliang; Ding, Jing; Zheng, Zhen

2014-04-01

Microbial desalination cells (MDCs) with common liquid anodic substrate exhibit a slow startup and destructive pH drop, and abiotic cathodes have high cost and low sustainability. A biocathode MDC with dewatered sludge as fuel was developed for synergistic desalination, electricity generation and sludge stabilization. Experimental results indicated that the startup period was reduced to 3d, anodic pH was maintained between 6.6 and 7.6, and high stability was shown under long-term operation (300d). When initial NaCl concentrations were 5 and 10g/L, the desalinization rates during stable operation were 46.37±1.14% and 40.74±0.89%, respectively. The maximum power output of 3.178W/m(3) with open circuit voltage (OCV) of 1.118V was produced on 130d. After 300d, 25.71±0.15% of organic matter was removed. These results demonstrated that dewatered sludge was an appropriate anodic substrate to enhance MDC stability for desalination and electricity generation. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Hierarchical porous carbons with layer-by-layer motif architectures from confined soft-template self-assembly in layered materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Jie; Tang, Jing; Ding, Bing; Malgras, Victor; Chang, Zhi; Hao, Xiaodong; Wang, Ya; Dou, Hui; Zhang, Xiaogang; Yamauchi, Yusuke

2017-06-01

Although various two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials have been explored as promising capacitive materials due to their unique layered structure, their natural restacking tendency impedes electrolyte transport and significantly restricts their practical applications. Herein, we synthesize all-carbon layer-by-layer motif architectures by introducing 2D ordered mesoporous carbons (OMC) within the interlayer space of 2D nanomaterials. As a proof of concept, MXenes are selected as 2D hosts to design 2D-2D heterostructures. Further removing the metal elements from MXenes leads to the formation of all-carbon 2D-2D heterostructures consisting of alternating layers of MXene-derived carbon (MDC) and OMC. The OMC layers intercalated with the MDC layers not only prevent restacking but also facilitate ion diffusion and electron transfer. The performance of the obtained hybrid carbons as supercapacitor electrodes demonstrates their potential for upcoming electronic devices. This method allows to overcome the restacking and blocking of 2D nanomaterials by constructing ion-accessible OMC within the 2D host material.

Performance of computer-designed small-size multistage depressed collectors for a high-perveance traveling wave tube

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ramins, P.

1984-01-01

Computer designed axisymmetric 2.4-cm-diameter three-, four-, and five-stage depressed collectors were evaluated in conjunction with an octave bandwidth, high-perveance, and high-electronic-efficiency, griddled-gun traveling wave tube (TWT). Spent-beam refocusing was used to condition the beam for optimum entry into the depressed collectors. Both the TWT and multistage depressed collector (MDC) efficiencies were measured, as well as the MDC current, dissipated thermal power, and DC input power distributions, for the TWT operating both at saturation over its bandwidth and over its full dynamic range. Relatively high collector efficiencies were obtained, leading to a very substantial improvement in the overall TWT efficiency. In spite of large fixed TWT body losses (due largely to the 6 to 8 percent beam interception), average overall efficiencies of 45 to 47 percent (for three to five collector stages) were obtained at saturation across the 2.5-, to 5.5-GHz operating band. For operation below saturation the collector efficiencies improved steadily, leading to reasonable ( 20 percent) overall efficiencies as far as 6 dB below saturation.

Short-distance walking speed tests in people with Parkinson disease: reliability, responsiveness, and validity.

PubMed

Combs, Stephanie A; Diehl, M Dyer; Filip, Jacqueline; Long, Erin

2014-02-01

The aims of this study were to determine test-retest reliability and responsiveness of short-distance walking speed tests for persons with Parkinson disease (PD). Discriminant and convergent validity of walking speed tests were also examined. Eighty-eight participants with PD (mean age, 66 years) with mild to moderate severity (stages 1-4 on the Hoehn and Yahr Scale) were tested on medications. Measures of activity included the comfortable and fast 10-m walk tests (CWT, FWT), 6-min walk test (6MWT), mini balance evaluations systems test (mini-BEST Test), fear of falling (FoF), and the Activity-Specific Balance Confidence Scale (ABC). The mobility subsection of the PD quality of life-39 (PDQ39-M) served as a participation-based measure. Test-retest reliability was high for both walking speed measures (CWT, ICC(2,1) = 0.98; FWT, ICC(2,1) = 0.99). Minimal detectable change (MDC(95)) for the CWT and FWT was 0.09 m/s and 0.13 m/s respectively. Participants at Hoehn & Yahr levels 3/4 demonstrated significantly slower walking speed with the CWT and FWT than participants at Hoehn & Yahr levels 1 and 2 (P < .01). The CWT and FWT were both significantly (P ≤ .002) correlated with all activity and participation-based measures. Short-distance walking speed tests are clinically useful measures for persons with PD. The CWT and FWT are highly reliable and responsive to change in persons with PD. Short distance walking speed can be used to discriminate differences in gait function between persons with mild and moderate PD severity. The CWT and FWT had moderate to strong associations with other activity and participation based measures demonstrating convergent validity. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Reliability, Validity, and Responsiveness of the Incremental Shuttle Walk Test in Patients With Interstitial Lung Disease.

PubMed

Singh, Sumedha; Moiz, Jamal Ali; Ali, Mir Shad; Talwar, Deepak

2018-05-11

To determine the reliability, validity, and responsiveness of the incremental shuttle walk test (ISWT) in patients with interstitial lung disease (ILD). This was a cross-sectional longitudinal study. Patients (n = 27, 10 males; mean age ± SD, 61 ± 9.8 y) with ILD of any etiology, who participated in an outpatient pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) program, were recruited. Reliability was determined by comparing the distance covered in meters between the ISWT-1 and the ISWT-2. Validity was assessed by correlating the distance covered in the ISWT-1, with the maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max) obtained through cardiopulmonary exercise testing and distance covered during the 6-min walk test (6MWT). Responsiveness was assessed by comparing the distance covered in the ISWT-3, undertaken after the completion of PR, to the ISWT-1. The distance covered was equivalent between the ISWT-1 (216.7 ± 64.9 m) and the ISWT-2 (220.7 ± 67.3 m), with an excellent intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC2,1 = 0.91; 95% CI, 0.81-0.95). The standard error of measurement and minimal detectable change at the 95% CI (MDC95) values for the ISWT were 19.5 m and 53.9m, respectively. There were significant correlations between the distance covered on the ISWT and VO2max (r = 0.79, P < .0001) and the distance covered on the 6MWT (r = 0.76, P < .0001). Following PR, the change in the ISWT distance showed large effect size (ES = 0.85) and standardized response mean (SRM = 1.58). The ISWT is a reliable, valid, and responsive measure of estimated functional capacity in patients with ILD.

The Anatomy of Caprine Female Urethra and Characteristics of Muscle and Bone Marrow Derived Caprine Cells for Autologous Cell Therapy Testing.

PubMed

Burdzinska, Anna; Dybowski, Bartosz; Zarychta-Wisniewska, Weronika; Kulesza, Agnieszka; Zagozdzon, Radoslaw; Gajewski, Zdzislaw; Paczek, Leszek

2017-03-01

Cell therapy is emerging as an alternative treatment of stress urinary incontinence. However, many aspects of the procedure require further optimization. A large animal model is needed to reliably test cell delivery methods. In this study, we aim to determine suitability of the goat as an experimental animal for testing intraurethral autologous cell transplantation in terms of urethral anatomy and cell culture parameters. The experiments were performed in 12 mature/aged female goats. Isolated caprine muscle derived cells (MDC) were myogenic in vitro and mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) population was able to differentiate into adipo-, osteo- and chondrogenic lineages. The median yield of cells after 3 weeks of culture amounted 47 × 10(6) for MDC and 37 × 10(6) for MSC. Urethral pressure profile measurements revealed the mean functional urethral length of 3.75 ± 0.7 cm. The mean maximal urethral closure pressure amounted 63.5 ± 5.9 cmH 2 O and the mean functional area was 123.3 ± 19.4 cm*cmH 2 O. The omega- shaped striated urethral sphincter was well developed in the middle and distal third of the urethra and its mean thickness on cross section was 2.3 mm. In the proximal part of the urethra only loosely arranged smooth muscle fibers were identified. To conclude, presented data demonstrate that caprine MDC and MSC can be expanded in vitro in a repeatable manner even when mature or aged animals are cell donors. Results suggest that female caprine urethra has similar parameters to those reported in human and therefore the goat can be an appropriate experimental animal for testing intraurethral cell transplantation. Anat Rec, 00:000-000, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Anat Rec, 300:577-588, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Children's recall of fast food television advertising-testing the adequacy of food marketing regulation.

PubMed

Bernhardt, Amy M; Wilking, Cara; Gilbert-Diamond, Diane; Emond, Jennifer A; Sargent, James D

2015-01-01

In the United States, the fast food companies McDonald's and Burger King participate in marketing self-regulation programs that aim to limit emphasis on premiums and promote emphasis of healthy food choices. We determine what children recall from fast food television advertisements aired by these companies. One hundred children aged 3-7 years were shown McDonald's and Burger King children's (MDC & BKC) and adult (MDA & BKA) meal ads, randomly drawn from ads that aired on national US television from 2010-11. Immediately after seeing the ad, children were asked to recall what they had seen and transcripts evaluated for descriptors of food, healthy food (apples or milk), and premiums/tie-ins. Premiums/tie-ins were common in children's but rarely appeared in adult ads, and all children's ads contained images of healthy foods (apples and milk). Participants were significantly less likely to recall any food after viewing the children's vs. the adult ad (MDC 32% [95% confidence interval 23, 41] vs. MDA 68% [59, 77]) p <0.001; BKC 46% [39, 56] vs. BKA 67% [58, 76] respectively, p = 0.002). For children's ads alone and for both restaurants, recall frequency for all food was not significantly different from premium/tie-ins, and participants were significantly more likely to recall other food items than apples or milk. Moreover, premiums/tie-ins were recalled much more frequently than healthy food (MDC 45% [35, 55] vs. 9% [3, 15] p<0.001; BKC 54% [44, 64] vs. 2% [0, 5] respectively, p<0.001). Children's net impressions of television fast food advertising indicate that industry self-regulation failed to achieve a de-emphasis on toy premiums and tie-ins and did not adequately communicate healthy menu choices. The methods devised for this study could be used to monitor and better regulate advertising patterns of practice.

Impact of tobacco smoke on upper airway dendritic cell accumulation and regulation by sinonasal epithelial cells.

PubMed

Mulligan, Jennifer K; O'Connell, Brendan P; Pasquini, Whitney; Mulligan, Ryan M; Smith, Sarah; Soler, Zachary M; Atkinson, Carl; Schlosser, Rodney J

2017-08-01

In these studies we examined the impact of environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) and active smoking on sinonasal dendritic cell (DC) subsets in controls or patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP). In subsequent in-vitro investigations, we examined the influence of cigarette smoke extract (CSE) on human sinonasal epithelial cells' (HSNECs) ability to regulate DC functions. Sinonasal tissue, blood, and hair were collected from patients undergoing sinus surgery. Smoking status and ETS exposure were determined by hair nicotine. DC subsets were examined by flow cytometric analysis. Monocyte-derived dendritic cells (moDCs) were treated with conditioned medium from non-smoked-exposed HSNECs (NS-HSNECs) or cigarette-smoke-extract-exposed HSNECs (CSE-HSNECs) to assess the impact of CSE exposure on HSNEC regulation of moDC functions. Control subjects who were active smokers displayed increased sinonasal moDC and myeloid dendritic 1 (mDC1) cells and reduced mDC2 cells, whereas, in CRSwNP patients, only moDC and mDC2 cells were altered. ETS was found to increase only moDCs in the CRSwNP patients. In vitro, CSE stimulated HSNEC secretion of the moDC regulatory products chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 20, prostaglandin E 2 , and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor. CSE exposure also promoted HSNECs to stimulate monocyte and moDC migration. moDCs treated with CSE-HSNEC media stimulated an increase in antigen uptake and expression of CD80 and CD86. Last, CSE-HSNEC-treated moDCs secreted increased levels of interleukin-10, interferon-γ, and thymic stromal lymphopoietin. Active smoking, and to a lesser degree ETS, alters the sinonasal composition of DCs. A potential mechanism to account for this is that cigarette smoke stimulates HSNECs to induce moDC migration, maturation, and activation. © 2017 ARS-AAOA, LLC.

Regular and transitory showers of comet C/1979 Y1 (Bradfield)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hajduková, M.; Neslušan, L.

2017-09-01

Aims: We intend to map the whole meteor complex of the long-period comet C/1979 Y1 (Bradfield), which is a proposed parent body of the July Pegasids, No. 175 in the list of meteor showers established by the Meteor Data Center (MDC) of the International Astronomical Union (IAU). Methods: For five perihelion passages of the parent comet in the past, we model associated theoretical stream, its parts, each consisting of 10 000 test particles, and follow the dynamical evolution of these parts up to the present. Subsequently, we analyze the mean orbital characteristics of those particles of the parts that approach the Earth's orbit and, thus, create a shower or showers. The showers are compared with their observed counterparts separated from photographic, radio, and several video databases. Results: The modeled stream of C/1979 Y1 approaches the Earth's orbit in two filaments that correspond to two regular (annual) showers. We confirm the generic relationship between the studied parent comet and 175 July Pegasids. The other predicted shower is a daytime shower with the mean radiant situated symmetrically to the July Pegasids with respect to the apex of the Earth's motion. This shower is not in the IAU MDC list, but we separated it from the Cameras-for-Allsky-Meteor-Surveillance (CAMS) and SonotaCo video data as a new shower. We suggest naming it α-Microscopiids. The stronger influence of the Poynting-Robertson drag deflects the stream away from the Earth's orbit in those sections that correspond to the July Pegasids and the predicted daytime shower, but it makes the stream cross the Earth's orbit in other sections. Corresponding showers are, however, only expected to survive during a limited period and to consist of particles of sizes in a narrow interval. We identified one of these "transitory" filaments to the 104 γ-Bootids in the IAU MDC list of meteor showers.

Children’s Recall of Fast Food Television Advertising—Testing the Adequacy of Food Marketing Regulation

PubMed Central

Bernhardt, Amy M.; Wilking, Cara; Gilbert-Diamond, Diane; Emond, Jennifer A.; Sargent, James D.

2015-01-01

Background and Aim In the United States, the fast food companies McDonald’s and Burger King participate in marketing self-regulation programs that aim to limit emphasis on premiums and promote emphasis of healthy food choices. We determine what children recall from fast food television advertisements aired by these companies. Methods One hundred children aged 3–7 years were shown McDonald’s and Burger King children’s (MDC & BKC) and adult (MDA & BKA) meal ads, randomly drawn from ads that aired on national US television from 2010–11. Immediately after seeing the ad, children were asked to recall what they had seen and transcripts evaluated for descriptors of food, healthy food (apples or milk), and premiums/tie-ins. Results Premiums/tie-ins were common in children’s but rarely appeared in adult ads, and all children’s ads contained images of healthy foods (apples and milk). Participants were significantly less likely to recall any food after viewing the children’s vs. the adult ad (MDC 32% [95% confidence interval 23, 41] vs. MDA 68% [59, 77]) p <0.001; BKC 46% [39, 56] vs. BKA 67% [58, 76] respectively, p = 0.002). For children’s ads alone and for both restaurants, recall frequency for all food was not significantly different from premium/tie-ins, and participants were significantly more likely to recall other food items than apples or milk. Moreover, premiums/tie-ins were recalled much more frequently than healthy food (MDC 45% [35, 55] vs. 9% [3, 15] p<0.001; BKC 54% [44, 64] vs. 2% [0, 5] respectively, p<0.001). Conclusions Children’s net impressions of television fast food advertising indicate that industry self-regulation failed to achieve a de-emphasis on toy premiums and tie-ins and did not adequately communicate healthy menu choices. The methods devised for this study could be used to monitor and better regulate advertising patterns of practice. PMID:25738653

An assessment of stressor extent and biological condition in the North American mid-continent great rivers (USA)

USGS Publications Warehouse

Angradi, Ted R.; Bolgriend, David W.; Jicha, Terri M.; Pearson, Mark S.; Taylor, Debra L.; Moffett, Mary F.; Blocksom, Karen A.; Walters, David M.; Elonen, Colleen M.; Anderson, Leroy E.; Lazorchak, James M.; Reavie, Euan D.; Kireta, Amy R.; Hill, Brian H.

2011-01-01

We assessed the North American mid-continent great rivers (Upper Mississippi, Missouri, and Ohio). We estimated the extent of each river in most- (MDC) or least-disturbed condition (LDC) based on multiple biological response indicators: fish and macroinvertebrate, trophic state based on chlorophyll a, macrophyte cover, and exposure of fish-eating wildlife to toxic contaminants in fish tissue (Hg, total chlordane, total DDT, PCBs). We estimated the extent of stressors on each river including nutrients, suspended solids, sediment toxicity, invasive species, and land use (agriculture and impervious surface). All three rivers had a greater percent of their river length in MDC than in LDC based on fish assemblages. The Upper Mississippi River had the greatest percent of river length with eutrophic status. The Ohio River had the greatest percent of river length with fish with tissue contaminant levels toxic to wildlife. Overall, condition indices based on fish assemblages were more sensitive to stress than macroinvertebrate indices. Compared to the streams in its basin, more of the Upper Mississippi and Missouri Rivers were in MDC for nutrients than the Ohio River. Invasive species (Asian carp and Dreissenid mussels) were less widespread and less abundant on the Missouri River than on the other great rivers. The Ohio River had the most urbanized floodplains (greatest percent impervious surface). The Missouri River had the most floodplain agriculture. The effect of large urban areas on river condition was apparent for several indicators. Ecosystem condition based in fish assemblages, trophic state, and fish tissue contamination was related to land use on the floodplain and at the subcatchment scale. This is the first unbiased bioassessment of the mid-continent great rivers in the United States. The indicators, condition thresholds, results, and recommendations from this program are a starting point for improved future great river assessments.

Characteristic profiles of DNA epigenetic modifications in colon cancer and its predisposing conditions-benign adenomas and inflammatory bowel disease.

PubMed

Dziaman, Tomasz; Gackowski, Daniel; Guz, Jolanta; Linowiecka, Kinga; Bodnar, Magdalena; Starczak, Marta; Zarakowska, Ewelina; Modrzejewska, Martyna; Szpila, Anna; Szpotan, Justyna; Gawronski, Maciej; Labejszo, Anna; Liebert, Ariel; Banaszkiewicz, Zbigniew; Klopocka, Maria; Foksinski, Marek; Marszalek, Andrzej; Olinski, Ryszard

2018-01-01

Active demethylation of 5-methyl-2'-deoxycytidine (5-mdC) in DNA occurs by oxidation to 5-(hydroxymethyl)-2'-deoxycytidine (5-hmdC) and further oxidation to 5-formyl-2'-deoxycytidine (5-fdC) and 5-carboxy-2'-deoxycytidine (5-cadC), and is carried out by enzymes of the ten-eleven translocation family (TETs 1, 2, 3). Decreased level of epigenetic DNA modifications in cancer tissue may be a consequence of reduced activity/expression of TET proteins. To determine the role of epigenetic DNA modifications in colon cancer development, we analyzed their levels in normal colon and various colonic pathologies. Moreover, we determined the expressions of TETs at mRNA and protein level.The study included material from patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), benign polyps (AD), and colorectal cancer (CRC). The levels of epigenetic DNA modifications and 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-oxodG) in examined tissues were determined by means of isotope-dilution automated online two-dimensional ultraperformance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (2D-UPLC-MS/MS). The expressions of TET mRNA were measured with RT-qPCR, and the expressions of TET proteins were determined immunohistochemically. IBD was characterized by the highest level of 8-oxodG among all analyzed tissues, as well as by a decrease in 5-hmdC and 5-mdC levels (at a midrange between normal colon and CRC). AD had the lowest levels of 5-hmdC and 5-mdC of all examined tissues and showed an increase in 8-oxodG and 5-(hydroxymethyl)-2'-deoxyuridine (5-hmdU) levels. CRC was characterized by lower levels of 5-hmdC and 5-mdC, the lowest level of 5-fdC among all analyzed tissues, and relatively high content of 5-cadC. The expression of TET1 mRNA in CRC and AD was significantly weaker than in IBD and normal colon. Furthermore, CRC and AD showed significantly lower levels of TET2 and AID mRNA than normal colonic tissue. Our findings suggest that a complex relationship between aberrant pattern of DNA epigenetic modification and cancer development does not depend solely on the transcriptional status of TET proteins, but also on the characteristics of premalignant/malignant cells. This study showed for the first time that the examined colonic pathologies had their unique epigenetic marks, distinguishing them from each other, as well as from normal colonic tissue. A decrease in 5-fdC level may be a characteristic feature of largely undifferentiated cancer cells.

Functional and Genomic Analyses of Alpha-Solenoid Proteins

PubMed Central

Fournier, David; Palidwor, Gareth A.; Shcherbinin, Sergey; Szengel, Angelika; Schaefer, Martin H.; Perez-Iratxeta, Carol; Andrade-Navarro, Miguel A.

2013-01-01

Alpha-solenoids are flexible protein structural domains formed by ensembles of alpha-helical repeats (Armadillo and HEAT repeats among others). While homology can be used to detect many of these repeats, some alpha-solenoids have very little sequence homology to proteins of known structure and we expect that many remain undetected. We previously developed a method for detection of alpha-helical repeats based on a neural network trained on a dataset of protein structures. Here we improved the detection algorithm and updated the training dataset using recently solved structures of alpha-solenoids. Unexpectedly, we identified occurrences of alpha-solenoids in solved protein structures that escaped attention, for example within the core of the catalytic subunit of PI3KC. Our results expand the current set of known alpha-solenoids. Application of our tool to the protein universe allowed us to detect their significant enrichment in proteins interacting with many proteins, confirming that alpha-solenoids are generally involved in protein-protein interactions. We then studied the taxonomic distribution of alpha-solenoids to discuss an evolutionary scenario for the emergence of this type of domain, speculating that alpha-solenoids have emerged in multiple taxa in independent events by convergent evolution. We observe a higher rate of alpha-solenoids in eukaryotic genomes and in some prokaryotic families, such as Cyanobacteria and Planctomycetes, which could be associated to increased cellular complexity. The method is available at http://cbdm.mdc-berlin.de/~ard2/. PMID:24278209

Validity and repeatability of inertial measurement units for measuring gait parameters.

PubMed

Washabaugh, Edward P; Kalyanaraman, Tarun; Adamczyk, Peter G; Claflin, Edward S; Krishnan, Chandramouli

2017-06-01

Inertial measurement units (IMUs) are small wearable sensors that have tremendous potential to be applied to clinical gait analysis. They allow objective evaluation of gait and movement disorders outside the clinic and research laboratory, and permit evaluation on large numbers of steps. However, repeatability and validity data of these systems are sparse for gait metrics. The purpose of this study was to determine the validity and between-day repeatability of spatiotemporal metrics (gait speed, stance percent, swing percent, gait cycle time, stride length, cadence, and step duration) as measured with the APDM Opal IMUs and Mobility Lab system. We collected data on 39 healthy subjects. Subjects were tested over two days while walking on a standard treadmill, split-belt treadmill, or overground, with IMUs placed in two locations: both feet and both ankles. The spatiotemporal measurements taken with the IMU system were validated against data from an instrumented treadmill, or using standard clinical procedures. Repeatability and minimally detectable change (MDC) of the system was calculated between days. IMUs displayed high to moderate validity when measuring most of the gait metrics tested. Additionally, these measurements appear to be repeatable when used on the treadmill and overground. The foot configuration of the IMUs appeared to better measure gait parameters; however, both the foot and ankle configurations demonstrated good repeatability. In conclusion, the IMU system in this study appears to be both accurate and repeatable for measuring spatiotemporal gait parameters in healthy young adults. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Building Capability, Empowering Students, and Achieving Success: The Financial Empowerment for Student Success Initiative

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Broun, Dan

2014-01-01

The Financial Empowerment for Student Success (FESS) Initiative was a two-year initiative focused on increasing student success through the provision of financial services. Achieving the Dream, Inc. and MDC, Inc. joined together, with funding from the Bank of America Charitable Foundation, to support three Achieving the Dream Leader Colleges to…

Establishing a Strong Foundation: District and School Supports for Classroom Implementation of the MDC Framework

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lawrence, Nancy; Sanders, Felicia; Christman, Jolley Bruce; Duffy, Mark

2011-01-01

The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has invested in the development and dissemination of high-quality formative assessment tools to support teachers' incorporation of the Core Common State Standards (CCSS) into their classroom instruction. Lessons from the first generation of standards-based reforms suggest that intense attention to high quality…

78 FR 61177 - Airworthiness Directives; Bombardier, Inc. Airplanes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-10-03

... Distribution Centre (MDC) rack panel is subject to flexing, due to the weight of the two DC Generator Control... Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of...., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service...

Glade/woodland restoration in the St. Francis Mountain Bird Conservation Area

Treesearch

David A. Hasenbeck

2007-01-01

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, the U.S. Forest Service, and American Bird Conservancy, share goals to restore and manage high quality glade, savanna, and woodland habitats within the Saint Francis Bird Conservation Area. The partnership endeavors to maintain and enhance an ecosystem with native glade and...

Evaluation of the use of malic acid decarboxylase-deficient starter culture in NaCl-free cucumber fermentations to reduce bloater incidence

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

AIMS: Accumulation of carbon dioxide in cucumber fermentations is known to cause hollow cavities inside whole fruits or bloaters, conducive to economic losses for the pickling industry. This study focused on evaluating the use of a malic acid decarboxylase (MDC)-deficient starter culture to minimiz...

Implementing Guided Pathways at Miami Dade College: A Case Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bailey, Thomas; Jaggars, Shanna Smith; Jenkins, Davis

2015-01-01

In 2011, working groups from across the eight campuses of Miami Dade College (MDC) conducted a wide-ranging examination of why many students were not completing their programs. These groups identified a number of reasons for student attrition. Students were unclear about how to progress through programs--they had too many course and program…

The readout chain for the bar PANDA MVD strip detector

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schnell, R.; Brinkmann, K.-Th.; Di Pietro, V.; Kleines, H.; Goerres, A.; Riccardi, A.; Rivetti, A.; Rolo, M. D.; Sohlbach, H.; Zaunick, H.-G.

2015-02-01

The bar PANDA (antiProton ANnihilation at DArmstadt) experiment will study the strong interaction in annihilation reactions between an antiproton beam and a stationary gas jet target. The detector will comprise different sub-detectors for tracking, particle identification and calorimetry. The Micro-Vertex Detector (MVD) as the innermost part of the tracking system will allow precise tracking and detection of secondary vertices. For the readout of the double-sided silicon strip sensors a custom-made ASIC is being developed, employing the Time-over-Threshold (ToT) technique for digitization and utilize time-to-digital converters (TDC) to provide a high-precision time stamp of the hit. A custom-made Module Data Concentrator ASIC (MDC) will multiplex the data of all front-ends of one sensor towards the CERN-developed GBT chip set (GigaBit Transceiver). The MicroTCA-based MVD Multiplexer Board (MMB) at the off-detector site will receive and concentrate the data from the GBT links and transfer it to FPGA-based compute nodes for global event building.

Translation, cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the Persian version of COOP/WONCA charts in Persian-speaking Iranians with multiple sclerosis.

PubMed

Taghipour, Morteza; Salavati, Mahyar; Nabavi, Seyed Massood; Akhbari, Behnam; Ebrahimi Takamjani, Ismail; Negahban, Hossein; Rajabzadeh, Fatemeh

2018-03-01

Translation, cross-culturally adaptation and validation of a Persian version of COOP/WONCA charts in Persian-speaking Iranians with multiple sclerosis (MS). The Persian version of COOP/WONCA charts was developed after a standard forward translation, synthesis and backward translation. A total of 197 subjects with MS participated in this study. They were asked to complete the COOP/WONCA charts and Short-Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36). The COOP/WONCA charts were re-administered to 50 patients, 4 weeks after the first session. Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) was also scored for each subject by the referring physician. Construct validity was assessed by testing linear relationship between corresponding domains of the COOP/WONCA charts, the SF-36 and the EDSS. Test-retest reliability was examined using interclass correlation coefficient (ICC), standard error of measurement (SEM) and minimal detectable change (MDC) values. Related domains of COOP/WONCA charts and SF-36 demonstrated strong linear relationships with Spearman's coefficients ranging from -0.51 to -0.75 (p< 0.05). Physical fitness and daily activity charts also demonstrated strong relationships with the EDSS by Spearman's coefficients of 0.65 and 0.50, respectively (p< 0.05). The ICC values for most of COOP/WONCA charts domains were acceptable (>0.70) except for feelings and quality-of-life domains that were 0.50 and 0.51, respectively. The Persian version of the COOP/WONCA charts was shown to be psychometrically appropriate to evaluate the functional level and quality of life in Persian-speaking Iranians with MS. Implications for rehabilitation COOP/WONCA charts are now available in Persian and demonstrate good psychometric properties. COOP/WONCA charts demonstrate excellent reliability and construct validity in a Persian-speaking Iranian population with MS. Minimal detectable change in COOP/WONCA is now available in MS to guide within and between group analyses. Knowledge on a wide variety of physical, mental and emotional parameters as well as the status of patients' symptoms, daily activities and quality of life helps rehabilitation clinicians and service providers plan preventive and remedial interventions more effectively.

Development and Validation of the 34-Item Disability Screening Questionnaire (DSQ-34) for Use in Low and Middle Income Countries Epidemiological and Development Surveys.

PubMed

Trani, Jean-François; Babulal, Ganesh Muneshwar; Bakhshi, Parul

2015-01-01

Although 80% of persons with disabilities live in low and middle-income countries, there is still a lack of comprehensive, cross-culturally validated tools to identify persons facing activity limitations and functioning difficulties in these settings. In absence of such a tool, disability estimates vary considerably according to the methodology used, and policies are based on unreliable estimates. The Disability Screening Questionnaire composed of 27 items (DSQ-27) was initially designed by a group of international experts in survey development and disability in Afghanistan for a national survey. Items were selected based on major domains of activity limitations and functioning difficulties linked to an impairment as defined by the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health. Face, content and construct validity, as well as sensitivity and specificity were examined. Based on the results obtained, the tool was subsequently refined and expanded to 34 items, tested and validated in Darfur, Sudan. Internal consistency for the total DSQ-34 using a raw and standardized Cronbach's Alpha and within each domain using a standardized Cronbach's Alpha was examined in the Asian context (India and Nepal). Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) using principal axis factoring (PAF) evaluated the lowest number of factors to account for the common variance among the questions in the screen. Test-retest reliability was determined by calculating intraclass correlation (ICC) and inter-rater reliability by calculating the kappa statistic; results were checked using Bland-Altman plots. The DSQ-34 was further tested for standard error of measurement (SEM) and for the minimum detectable change (MDC). Good internal consistency was indicated by Cronbach's Alpha of 0.83/0.82 for India and 0.76/0.78 for Nepal. We confirmed our assumption for EFA using the Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin measure of sampling well above the accepted cutoff of 0.40 for India (0.82) and Nepal (0.82). The criteria for Bartlett's test of sphericity were also met for both India (< .001) and Nepal (< .001). Estimates of reliability from the two countries reached acceptable levels of ICC of 0.75 (p<0.001) for India of 0.77 for Nepal (p<0.001) and good strength of agreement for weighted kappa (respectively 0.77 and 0.79). The SEM/MDC was 0.80/2.22 for India and 0.96/2.66 for Nepal indicating a smaller amount of measurement error in the screen. In Nepal and India, the DSQ-34 shows strong psychometric properties that indicate that it effectively discriminates between persons with and without disabilities. This instrument can be used in association with other instruments for the purpose of comparing health outcomes of persons with and without disabilities in LMICs.

Reliability and concurrent validity of a new iPhone® goniometric application for measuring active wrist range of motion: a cross-sectional study in asymptomatic subjects.

PubMed

Pourahmadi, Mohammad Reza; Ebrahimi Takamjani, Ismail; Sarrafzadeh, Javad; Bahramian, Mehrdad; Mohseni-Bandpei, Mohammad Ali; Rajabzadeh, Fatemeh; Taghipour, Morteza

2017-03-01

Measurement of wrist range of motion (ROM) is often considered to be an essential component of wrist physical examination. The measurement can be carried out through various instruments such as goniometers and inclinometers. Recent smartphones have been equipped with accelerometers and magnetometers, which, through specific software applications (apps) can be used for goniometric functions. This study, for the first time, aimed to evaluate the reliability and concurrent validity of a new smartphone goniometric app (Goniometer Pro©) for measuring active wrist ROM. In all, 120 wrists of 70 asymptomatic adults (38 men and 32 women; aged 18-40 years) were assessed in a physiotherapy clinic located at the School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Iran University of Medical Science and Health Services, Tehran, Iran. Following the recruitment process, active wrist ROM was measured using a universal goniometer and iPhone ® 5 app. Two blinded examiners each utilized the universal goniometer and iPhone ® to measure active wrist ROM using a volar/dorsal alignment technique in the following sequences: flexion, extension, radial deviation, and ulnar deviation. The second (2 h later) and third (48 h later) sessions were carried out in the same manner as the first session. All the measurements were conducted three times and the mean value of three repetitions for each measurement was used for analysis. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) models (3, k) and (2, k) were used to determine the intra-rater and inter-rater reliability, respectively. The Pearson correlation coefficients were used to establish concurrent validity of the iPhone ® app. Good to excellent intra-rater and inter-rater reliability was demonstrated for the goniometer with ICC values of ≥ 0.82 and ≥ 0.73 and the iPhone ® app with ICC values of ≥ 0.83 and ≥ 0.79, respectively. Minimum detectable change at the 95% confidence level (MDC 95 ) was computed as 1.96 × standard error of measurement × √2. The MDC 95 ranged from 1.66° to 5.35° for the intra-rater analysis and from 1.97° to 6.15° for the inter-rater analysis. The concurrent validity between the two instruments was high, with r values of ≥ 0.80. From the results of this cross-sectional study, it can be concluded that the iPhone ® app possesses good to excellent intra-rater and inter-rater reliability and concurrent validity. It seems that this app can be used for the measurement of wrist ROM. However, further research is needed to evaluate symptomatic subjects using this app. © 2016 Anatomical Society.

Elderly dendritic cells respond to LPS/IFN-γ and CD40L stimulation despite incomplete maturation

PubMed Central

Musk, Arthur W.; Alvarez, John; Mamotte, Cyril D. S.; Jackaman, Connie; Nowak, Anna K.; Nelson, Delia J.

2018-01-01

There is evidence that dendritic cells (DCs) undergo age-related changes that modulate their function with their key role being priming antigen-specific effector T cells. This occurs once DCs develop into antigen-presenting cells in response to stimuli/danger signals. However, the effects of aging on DC responses to bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS), the pro-inflammatory cytokine interferon (IFN)-γ and CD40 ligand (CD40L) have not yet been systematically evaluated. We examined responses of blood myeloid (m)DC1s, mDC2s, plasmacytoid (p)DCs, and monocyte-derived DCs (MoDCs) from young (21–40 years) and elderly (60–84 years) healthy human volunteers to LPS/IFN-γ or CD40L stimulation. All elderly DC subsets demonstrated comparable up-regulation of co-stimulatory molecules (CD40, CD80 and/or CD86), intracellular pro-inflammatory cytokine levels (IFN-γ, tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, IL-6 and/or IL-12), and/or secreted cytokine levels (IFN-α, IFN-γ, TNF-α, and IL-12) to their younger counterparts. Furthermore, elderly-derived LPS/IFN-γ or CD40L-activated MoDCs induced similar or increased levels of CD8+ and CD4+ T cell proliferation, and similar T cell functional phenotypes, to their younger counterparts. However, elderly LPS/IFN-γ-activated MoDCs were unreliable in their ability to up-regulate chemokine (IL-8 and monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1) and IL-6 secretion, implying an inability to dependably induce an inflammatory response. A key age-related difference was that, unlike young-derived MoDCs that completely lost their ability to process antigen, elderly-derived MoDCs maintained their antigen processing ability after LPS/IFN-γ maturation, measured using the DQ-ovalbumin assay; this response implies incomplete maturation that may enable elderly DCs to continuously present antigen. These differences may impact on the efficacy of anti-pathogen and anti-tumour immune responses in the elderly. PMID:29652910

The State of the South 2004. Fifty Years after Brown v. Board of Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Greene, Alison; Guillory, Ferrel; Lipsitz, Joan; Rubin,Sarah

2004-01-01

State of the South 2004 is the fifth edition in North Carolina Manpower Development Corporation MDC's State of the South series, which examines the region's economic and demographic landscape and how Southerners are faring within it. This edition considers the region through the lens of public education, 50 years after the Supreme Court?s Brown…

Establishing a Strong Foundation: District and School-Level Supports for Classroom Implementation of the LDC and MDC Frameworks. Executive Summary

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Reumann-Moore, Rebecca; Lawrence, Nancy; Sanders, Felicia; Christman, Jolley Bruce; Duffy, Mark

2011-01-01

The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has invested in the development and dissemination of high-quality instructional and formative assessment tools to support teachers' incorporation of the Core Common State Standards (CCSS) into their classroom instruction. Literacy experts have developed a framework and a set of templates that teachers can use…

Disconnected Youth in the Research Triangle Region: An Ominous Problem Hidden in Plain Sight

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dodson, David; Guillory, Ferrel; Lipsitz, Joan; Raper, Noah; Rausch, Christina

2008-01-01

In September 2006, the North Carolina GlaxoSmithKline Foundation commissioned MDC, Inc. of Chapel Hill to analyze the problem of "disconnected youth" in the Research Triangle region, determine the current state of the region's responses to the challenge, and recommend steps to deepen and accelerate action on the issue. The research process was…

Visual Effects in the High Performance Aircraft Cockpit

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-04-01

The RPE acts in a supportive metabolic role to the photoreceptors and if damaged or artificially aged this...unlimited. 2. Lenses cannot mist and provide minor protection against 4. Provide greater protection against splatter from the firing of MDC and impact...almost opposite requirements: the air combat role and the ground attack role . For the air combat role , the aircraft is used against

Implementation and Effects of LDC and MDC in Kentucky Districts. Policy Brief No. 13

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Herman, Joan; Epstein, Scott; Leon, Seth; Matrundola, Deborah La Torre; Reber, Sarah; Choi, Kilchan

2015-01-01

Kentucky has been a leader in the movement to more rigorous college and career ready standards to support their students' success in the 21st century. Kentucky was the first state to adopt new college and career ready standards (CCRS)--termed the Kentucky Core Academic Standards. Many of Kentucky's districts have moved proactively and…

Development and initial outcomes of an upper gastrointestinal multidisciplinary clinic.

PubMed

Brown, Anna; Wylie, Neil; Rodgers, Michael; Casement, Jonathan; McIlree, Neil; Gray, Lindsay; Mulholland, Glen; Volkova, Vicki; van der Watt, Erna; Booth, Michael; Koea, Jonathan

2016-07-01

Patients with upper gastrointestinal cancer are often comorbid and require complex surgical treatments for their cancers, meaning that their preoperative assessment can be based around numerous outpatient assessments with multiple services. A multidisciplinary clinic (MDC) was developed for the assessment of patients with confirmed or suspected upper gastrointestinal cancers. Face-to-face meetings were held between stakeholder services at Waitemata District Health Board, and clinic resource allocated. Significant IT modification of existing clinic booking software was required. Between September 2014, and September 2015, there were a total of 165 new patient, and 710 follow-up appointments. All new patients were seen by a surgeon and then other specialties. Of the 165 new patient appointments, 146 (88%) patients had a definitive treatment plan in place and were cleared by anaesthesia and intensive care at the end of the clinic. Staff and patients report high levels of satisfaction for the clinic. A dedicated MDC has provided a single forum where complex patients can be reviewed, and a definitive treatment plan formulated in nearly 90% of patients, even when this involves multiple medical and paramedical specialties with high levels of patient and clinician satisfaction.

Dopamine alleviates nutrient deficiency-induced stress in Malus hupehensis.

PubMed

Liang, Bowen; Li, Cuiying; Ma, Changqing; Wei, Zhiwei; Wang, Qian; Huang, Dong; Chen, Qi; Li, Chao; Ma, Fengwang

2017-10-01

Dopamine mediates many physiological processes in plants. We investigated its role in regulating growth, root system architecture, nutrient uptake, and responses to nutrient deficiencies in Malus hupehensis Rehd. Under a nutrient deficiency, plants showed significant reductions in growth, chlorophyll concentrations, and net photosynthesis, along with disruptions in nutrient uptake, transport, and distribution. However, pretreatment with 100 μM dopamine markedly alleviated such inhibitions. Supplementation with that compound enabled plants to maintain their photosynthetic capacity and development of the root system while promoting the uptake of N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn, and B, altering the way in which those nutrients were partitioned throughout the plant. The addition of dopamine up-regulated genes for antioxidant enzymes involved in the ascorbate-glutathione cycle (MdcAPX, MdcGR, MdMDHAR, MdDHAR-1, and MdDHAR-2) but down-regulated genes for senescence (SAG12, PAO, and MdHXK). These results indicate that exogenous dopamine has an important antioxidant and anti-senescence effect that might be helpful for improving nutrient uptake. Our findings demonstrate that dopamine offers new opportunities for its use in agriculture, especially when addressing the problem of nutrient deficiencies. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

An Intervention to Maximize Medication Management by Caregivers of Persons with Memory Loss: Intervention Overview and Two-Month Outcomes

PubMed Central

Lingler, Jennifer H.; Arida, Janet; Houze, Martin; Kaufman, Robert; Knox, Melissa; Sereika, Susan M.; Tamres, Lisa; Erlen, Judith; Amspaugh, Carolyn; Tang, Fengyan; Happ, Mary Beth

2016-01-01

Overseeing medication-taking is a critical aspect of dementia caregiving. This randomized controlled trial examined the efficacy of a tailored, problem-solving intervention designed to maximize medication management practices among caregivers of persons with memory loss. Eighty-three community-dwelling dyads (patient + informal caregiver) with a baseline average of 3 medication deficiencies participated. Home- and telephone-based sessions were delivered by nurse or social worker interventionists and addressed basic aspects of managing medications, plus tailored problem solving for specific challenges. The outcome of medication management practices was assessed using the Medication Management Instrument for Deficiencies in the Elderly (MedMaIDE) and an investigator-developed Medication Deficiency Checklist (MDC). Linear mixed modeling showed both the intervention and usual care groups had decreases in medication management problems as measured by the MedMaIDE (F=6.91, p<.01) and MDC (F=9.72, p<.01) at 2 months post-intervention. The phenomenon of reduced medication deficiencies in both groups suggests that when nurses or social workers merely raise awareness of the importance of medication adherence, there may be benefit. PMID:26804450

Multipolar Ewald methods, 1: theory, accuracy, and performance.

PubMed

Giese, Timothy J; Panteva, Maria T; Chen, Haoyuan; York, Darrin M

2015-02-10

The Ewald, Particle Mesh Ewald (PME), and Fast Fourier–Poisson (FFP) methods are developed for systems composed of spherical multipole moment expansions. A unified set of equations is derived that takes advantage of a spherical tensor gradient operator formalism in both real space and reciprocal space to allow extension to arbitrary multipole order. The implementation of these methods into a novel linear-scaling modified “divide-and-conquer” (mDC) quantum mechanical force field is discussed. The evaluation times and relative force errors are compared between the three methods, as a function of multipole expansion order. Timings and errors are also compared within the context of the quantum mechanical force field, which encounters primary errors related to the quality of reproducing electrostatic forces for a given density matrix and secondary errors resulting from the propagation of the approximate electrostatics into the self-consistent field procedure, which yields a converged, variational, but nonetheless approximate density matrix. Condensed-phase simulations of an mDC water model are performed with the multipolar PME method and compared to an electrostatic cutoff method, which is shown to artificially increase the density of water and heat of vaporization relative to full electrostatic treatment.

Evidence for epithelial-mesenchymal transition in cancer stem-like cells derived from carcinoma cell lines of the cervix uteri.

PubMed

Lin, Jiaying; Liu, Xishi; Ding, Ding

2015-01-01

The cancer stem cell (CSC) paradigm is one possible way to understand the genesis of cancer, and cervical cancer in particular. We quantified and enriched ALDH1(+) cells within cervical cancer cell lines and subsequently characterized their phenotypical and functional properties like invasion capacity and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). ALDH1 expression in spheroid-derived cells (SDC) and the parental monolayer-derived cell (MDC) line was compared by flow-cytometry. Invasion capability was evaluated by Matrigel assay and expression of EMT-related genes Twist 1, Twist 2, Snail 1, Snail 2, Vimentin and E-cadherin by real-time PCR. ALDH1 expression was significantly higher in SDC. ALDH1(+) cells showed increased colony-formation. SDC expressed lower levels of E-cadherin and elevated levels of Twist 1, Twist 2, Snail 1, Snail 2 and Vimentin compared to MDC. Cervical cancer cell lines harbor potential CSC, characterized by ALDH1 expression as well as properties like invasiveness, colony-forming ability, and EMT. CSC can be enriched by anchorage-independent culture techniques, which may be important for the investigation of their contribution to therapy resistance, tumor recurrence and metastasis.

Targeting mitochondrial STAT3 with the novel phospho-valproic acid (MDC-1112) inhibits pancreatic cancer growth in mice.

PubMed

Mackenzie, Gerardo G; Huang, Liqun; Alston, Ninche; Ouyang, Nengtai; Vrankova, Kvetoslava; Mattheolabakis, George; Constantinides, Panayiotis P; Rigas, Basil

2013-01-01

New agents are needed to treat pancreatic cancer, one of the most lethal human malignancies. We synthesized phospho-valproic acid, a novel valproic acid derivative, (P-V; MDC-1112) and evaluated its efficacy in the control of pancreatic cancer. P-V inhibited the growth of human pancreatic cancer xenografts in mice by 60%-97%, and 100% when combined with cimetidine. The dominant molecular target of P-V was STAT3. P-V inhibited the phosphorylation of JAK2 and Src, and the Hsp90-STAT3 association, suppressing the activating phosphorylation of STAT3, which in turn reduced the expression of STAT3-dependent proteins Bcl-xL, Mcl-1 and survivin. P-V also reduced STAT3 levels in the mitochondria by preventing its translocation from the cytosol, and enhanced the mitochondrial levels of reactive oxygen species, which triggered apoptosis. Inhibition of mitochondrial STAT3 by P-V was required for its anticancer effect; mitochondrial STAT3 overexpression rescued animals from the tumor growth inhibition by P-V. Our results indicate that P-V is a promising candidate drug against pancreatic cancer and establish mitochondrial STAT3 as its key molecular target.

Immunohistochemical localization of steroid receptor coactivators in chondrosarcoma: an in vivo tissue microarray study.

PubMed

Li, Wei; Fu, Jingshu; Bian, Chen; Zhang, Jiqiang; Xie, Zhao

2014-12-01

Chondrosarcoma is the second most common type of primary bone malignancy following up osteosarcoma, characterized by resistance to conventional chemotherapeutic agents and radiation regimens. The p160 family members steroid receptor coactivator-1 and -3 (SRC-1 and SRC-3) have been implied in the regulation of cancer growth, migration, invasion, metastasis and chemotherapeutic resistance; but we still lack detailed information about the levels of SRCs in chondrosarcoma. In this study, expression of SRC-1 and SRC-3 in chondrosarcoma was examined by immunohistochemistry with tissue microarrays; the four score system (0, 1, 2 and 3) was used to evaluate the staining. The results showed that there were no gender-, site- or age-differences regarding the expression of SRC-1 or SRC-3 (p>0.05); organ (bone or cartilage) -differences were only detected for SRC-1 but not SRC-3 (p<0.05). Significant higher levels of SRC-1 and SRC-3 were detected in MDC and PDC when compared to WDC. Our study clearly demonstrated differentiation-dependant expression of SRC-1 and SRC-3 in chondrosarcoma, may be novel targets for the prognosis and/or treatment of chondrosarcoma, would have opened a new avenue and established foundation for studying chondrosarcoma. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

75 FR 61989 - Airworthiness Directives; McDonnell Douglas Corporation Model DC-8-31, DC-8-32, DC-8-33, DC-8-41...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-10-07

... Airworthiness Limitations inspections (ALIs). This AD results from a design review of the fuel tank systems. We... inspections (ALIs). Relevant Service Information We reviewed Boeing DC-8 Special Compliance Item Report, MDC..., Revision C, dated January 5, 2010; or Revision D, dated June 9, 2010. (2) ALI 30-1 ``DC-8 Pneumatic System...

State of the South: North Carolina's Economic Imperative: Building an Infrastructure of Opportunity. A Report for the John M. Belk Endowment

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

MDC, Inc., 2016

2016-01-01

In partnership with the John M. Belk Endowment, MDC has researched and written the report, "North Carolina's Economic Imperative: Building an Infrastructure of Opportunity," part of our work with the endowment to study, address, and propose solutions for the low mobility rate of too many North Carolinians. The report examines patterns of…

Enacting Common Core Instruction: How Intermediate Unit 13 Leveraged Its Position as an Educational Service Agency to Implement and Scale the LDC Initiative

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Research For Action, 2014

2014-01-01

Funded by The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Literacy Design Collaborative (LDC) and Math Design Collaborative (MDC) offer a set of instructional and formative assessment tools in literacy and math, which were developed to help educators better prepare all students to meet the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) and succeed beyond high…

The Decline of Austrocedrus Forests in Patagonia (Mal del Ciprés): Another Phytophthora-Caused Forest Disease

Treesearch

Alina Greslebin; Everett Hansen

2009-01-01

Austrocedrus chilensis, an indigenous Cupressaceae of the Patagonian Andes forests, is suffering a disease that has been called "Mal del Ciprés" (MDC). This disease was first reported more than 50 years ago but, in spite of many studies, its causes remained unclear until recently. The disease begins in the root system, the distribution...

HSCT materials and structures: An MDC perspective

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sutton, Jay O.

1992-01-01

The key High Speed Civil Transport (HSCT) features which control the materials selection are discussed. Materials are selected based on weight and production economics. The top-down and bottoms-up approaches to material selection are compared for the Mach 2.4 study baseline aircraft. The key materials and structures related tasks which remain to be accomplished prior to proceeding with the building of the HSCT aircraft are examined.

Separation and confirmation of showers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Neslušan, L.; Hajduková, M.

2017-02-01

Aims: Using IAU MDC photographic, IAU MDC CAMS video, SonotaCo video, and EDMOND video databases, we aim to separate all provable annual meteor showers from each of these databases. We intend to reveal the problems inherent in this procedure and answer the question whether the databases are complete and the methods of separation used are reliable. We aim to evaluate the statistical significance of each separated shower. In this respect, we intend to give a list of reliably separated showers rather than a list of the maximum possible number of showers. Methods: To separate the showers, we simultaneously used two methods. The use of two methods enables us to compare their results, and this can indicate the reliability of the methods. To evaluate the statistical significance, we suggest a new method based on the ideas of the break-point method. Results: We give a compilation of the showers from all four databases using both methods. Using the first (second) method, we separated 107 (133) showers, which are in at least one of the databases used. These relatively low numbers are a consequence of discarding any candidate shower with a poor statistical significance. Most of the separated showers were identified as meteor showers from the IAU MDC list of all showers. Many of them were identified as several of the showers in the list. This proves that many showers have been named multiple times with different names. Conclusions: At present, a prevailing share of existing annual showers can be found in the data and confirmed when we use a combination of results from large databases. However, to gain a complete list of showers, we need more-complete meteor databases than the most extensive databases currently are. We also still need a more sophisticated method to separate showers and evaluate their statistical significance. Tables A.1 and A.2 are also available at the CDS via anonymous ftp to http://cdsarc.u-strasbg.fr (http://130.79.128.5) or via http://cdsarc.u-strasbg.fr/viz-bin/qcat?J/A+A/598/A40

Multidisciplinary clinic approach improves overall survival outcomes of patients with metastatic germ-cell tumors.

PubMed

Albany, C; Adra, N; Snavely, A C; Cary, C; Masterson, T A; Foster, R S; Kesler, K; Ulbright, T M; Cheng, L; Chovanec, M; Taza, F; Ku, K; Brames, M J; Hanna, N H; Einhorn, L H

2018-02-01

To report our experience utilizing a multidisciplinary clinic (MDC) at Indiana University (IU) since the publication of the International Germ Cell Cancer Collaborative Group (IGCCCG), and to compare our overall survival (OS) to that of the National Cancer Institute (NCI) Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program. We conducted a retrospective analysis of all patients with metastatic germ-cell tumor (GCT) seen at IU from 1998 to 2014. A total of 1611 consecutive patients were identified, of whom 704 patients received an initial evaluation by our MDC (including medical oncology, pathology, urology and thoracic surgery) and started first-line chemotherapy at IU. These 704 patients were eligible for analysis. All patients in this cohort were treated with cisplatin-etoposide-based combination chemotherapy. We compared the progression-free survival (PFS) and OS of patients treated at IU with that of the published IGCCCG cohort. OS of the IU testis cancer primary cohort (n = 622) was further compared with the SEER data of 1283 patients labeled with 'distant' disease. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to estimate PFS and OS. With a median follow-up of 4.4 years, patients with good, intermediate, and poor risk disease by IGCCCG criteria treated at IU had 5-year PFS of 90%, 84%, and 54% and 5-year OS of 97%, 92%, and 73%, respectively. The 5-year PFS for all patients in the IU cohort was 79% [95% confidence interval (CI) 76% to 82%]. The 5-year OS for the IU cohort was 90% (95% CI 87% to 92%). IU testis cohort had 5-year OS 94% (95% CI 91% to 96%) versus 75% (95% CI 73% to 78%) for the SEER 'distant' cohort between 2000 and 2014, P-value <0.0001. The MDC approach to GCT at high-volume cancer center associated with improved OS outcomes in this contemporary dataset. OS is significantly higher in the IU cohort compared with the IGCCCG and SEER 'distant' cohort. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Society for Medical Oncology. All rights reserved. For permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

[Quality assurance in coding expertise of hospital cases in the German DRG system. Evaluation of inter-rater reliability in MDK expertise].

PubMed

Huber, H; Brambrink, M; Funk, R; Rieger, M

2012-10-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate differences in the D-DRG results of a hospital case by 2 independently coding MKD raters. Calculation of the 2-inter-rater reliability was performed by examination of the coding of individual hospital cases. The reasons for the non-agreement of the expert evaluations and suggestions to improve the process are discussed. From the expert evaluation pool of the MDK-WL a random sample of 0.7% of the 57,375 expertises was taken. Distribution equality with the basic total was tested by the χ² test or, respectively, Fisher's exact test. For the total of 402 individual hospital cases, the G-DRG case sums of 2 experts of the MDK were determined independently and the results checked for each individual case for agreement or non-agreement. The corresponding confidence intervals with standard errors were analysed to test if certain major diagnosis categories (MDC) were statistically significantly more affected by differing expertise results than others. In 280 of the total 402 tested hospital cases, the 2 MDK raters independently reached the same G-DRG results; in 122 cases the G-DRG case sums determined by the 2 raters differed (agreement 70%; CI 65.2-74.1). Different DRG results between the 2 experts occurred regularly in the entire MDC spectrum. No MDC chapter in which significant differences between the 2 raters arose could be identified. The results of our study demonstrate an almost 70% agreement in the evaluation of hospital cost accounts by 2 independently operating MDK. This result leaves room for improvement. Optimisation potentials can be recognised on the basis of the results. Potential for improvement was established in combination with regular further training and the expansion of binding internal code recommendations as well as exchange of code-relevant information among experts in internal forums. The presented model is in principle suitable for cross-border examinations within the MDK system with the advantage that further trends could be uncovered by more variety and larger numbers of the randomly selected cases. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

[Quality of case allocation of orthopedics and trauma surgery in the 2004 and 2014 versions of the German DRG system. An interim assessment of the development process].

PubMed

Franz, D; Schemmann, F; Selter, D D; Auhuber, T; Gehweiler, D; Roeder, N; Siebert, H; Mahlke, L

2014-10-01

Since 2004 the German diagnosis-related groups (DRG) system has been applied nationwide in all German somatic hospitals. The G-DRG system is updated annually in order to increase the quality of case allocation. What developments have occurred since 2004 from the perspective of orthopedics and trauma surgery? This article takes stock of the developments between 2004 and 2014. Analysis of relevant diagnoses, medical procedures and G-DRGs in the versions 2004 and 2014 based on the publications of the German DRG Institute (InEK) and the German Institute of Medical Documentation and Information (DIMDI). The number of G-DRGs in the whole system increased by 45.1 % between 2004 and 2014. The number of G-DRGs in the major diagnostic category (MDC) 08 that contains the majority of orthopedic and trauma surgery categories increased in the same period by 61.6 %. The reduction of variance of inlier costs in the MDC 08 category, a statistical measure of the performance of the G-DRG system, was below the corresponding value of the total system in 2004 as well in 2014. However, the reduction of variance of inlier costs in MDC 08 (+ 30.0 %) rose more from 2004 to 2014 than the corresponding value of the overall system (+ 21.5 %). Many modifications of the classification systems of diagnoses (ICD-10-GM) and medical procedures (OPS) and the structures of the G-DRG system could significantly improve the quality of case allocation from the perspective of orthopedics and trauma surgery between 2004 and 2014. Th assignment of cases could be differentiated so that complex cases with more utilization of resources were allocated to higher rated G-DRGs and vice versa. However, further improvements of the G-DRG system are necessary. Only correct and complete documentation and coding can provide a high quality of calculation of costs as a basis for a correct case allocation in future G-DRG systems.

Improving the coding and classification of ambulance data through the application of International Classification of Disease 10th revision.

PubMed

Cantwell, Kate; Morgans, Amee; Smith, Karen; Livingston, Michael; Dietze, Paul

2014-02-01

This paper aims to examine whether an adaptation of the International Classification of Disease (ICD) coding system can be applied retrospectively to final paramedic assessment data in an ambulance dataset with a view to developing more fine-grained, clinically relevant case definitions than are available through point-of-call data. Over 1.2 million case records were extracted from the Ambulance Victoria data warehouse. Data fields included dispatch code, cause (CN) and final primary assessment (FPA). Each FPA was converted to an ICD-10-AM code using word matching or best fit. ICD-10-AM codes were then converted into Major Diagnostic Categories (MDC). CN was aligned with the ICD-10-AM codes for external cause of morbidity and mortality. The most accurate results were obtained when ICD-10-AM codes were assigned using information from both FPA and CN. Comparison of cases coded as unconscious at point-of-call with the associated paramedic assessment highlighted the extra clinical detail obtained when paramedic assessment data are used. Ambulance paramedic assessment data can be aligned with ICD-10-AM and MDC with relative ease, allowing retrospective coding of large datasets. Coding of ambulance data using ICD-10-AM allows for comparison of not only ambulance service users but also with other population groups. WHAT IS KNOWN ABOUT THE TOPIC? There is no reliable and standard coding and categorising system for paramedic assessment data contained in ambulance service databases. WHAT DOES THIS PAPER ADD? This study demonstrates that ambulance paramedic assessment data can be aligned with ICD-10-AM and MDC with relative ease, allowing retrospective coding of large datasets. Representation of ambulance case types using ICD-10-AM-coded information obtained after paramedic assessment is more fine grained and clinically relevant than point-of-call data, which uses caller information before ambulance attendance. WHAT ARE THE IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTITIONERS? This paper describes a model of coding using an internationally recognised standard coding and categorising system to support analysis of paramedic assessment. Ambulance data coded using ICD-10-AM allows for reliable reporting and comparison within the prehospital setting and across the healthcare industry.

Cost of nursing most frequent procedures performed on severely burned patients.

PubMed

Melo, Talita de Oliveira; Lima, Antônio Fernandes Costa

2017-01-01

to identify the mean direct cost (MDC) of the most frequent procedures performed by nursing professionals on severely burned patients in an Intensive Care Unit. exploratory-descriptive quantitative single-case study. The MDC was calculated by multiplying time (timed) spent by nursing professionals in the performance of the procedures by the unit cost of direct labor, and adding the costs of material and medicine/solutions. a MDC of US$ 0.65 (SD=0.36) was obtained for "vital signs monitoring"; US$ 10.00 (SD=24.23) for "intravenous drug administration"; US$ 5.90 (SD=2.75) for "measurement of diuresis"; US$ 0.93 (SD=0.42) for "capillary blood glucose monitoring"; and US$ 99.75 (SD=129.55) for "bandaging". the knowledge developed can support managerial decision-making, contribute to the efficiency distribution of the resources involved and, when possible, provide cost-containment or cost-minimization strategies without impairing the quality of nursing care. identificar o custo direto médio (CDM) dos procedimentos realizados, com maior frequência, por profissionais de enfermagem, em uma Unidade de Terapia Intensiva, aos pacientes grandes queimados. pesquisa quantitativa, exploratório-descritiva, do tipo estudo de caso único. O CDM foi calculado multiplicando-se o tempo (cronometrado) despendido por profissionais de enfermagem na execução dos procedimentos, objeto de estudo, pelo custo unitário da mão de obra direta, somando-se ao custo dos materiais e soluções/medicamentos. obteve-se o CDM de US$ 0.65 (SD=0.36) para "controle dos sinais vitais"; US$ 10.00 (SD=24.23) para "administração de medicamentos via intravenosa"; US$ 5.90 (SD=2.75) para "mensuração de diurese"; US$ 0.93 (SD=0.42) para "verificação de glicemia capilar"; e US$ 99.75 (SD=129.55) para "curativo". o conhecimento desenvolvido pode fundamentar as tomadas de decisão gerenciais subsidiando a eficiência alocativa dos recursos envolvidos e, quando possível, indicar estratégias de contenção/minimização de custos sem prejuízos à qualidade da assistência de enfermagem.

Krypton and Xenon Radionuclides Monitoring in the Northwest Region of Russia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dubasov, Yuri V.; Okunev, Nikolay S.

2010-05-01

Monitoring of Xe and Kr radionuclides was conducted from August 2006 to 30 July 2008 within the framework of ISTC Project #2133. Cherepovets City in Vologda Province and St. Petersburg were chosen as monitoring locations. Kr-Xe concentrate samples were obtained as a result of processing of several thousand m3 of atmospheric air. New results of 85Kr monitoring show, that for last 15 years, the 85Kr volumetric activity in the atmospheric air of the northwest region of Russia has increased approximately 50% and has achieved a level of 1.5 Bq/m3. This value correlates well with similar data for Western Europe and Japan. The xenon fraction (80-160 cm3 under STP) is adsorbed on charcoal in the ampoule, which is measured in the well of HPGe gamma detector. Minimum detectable concentration (MDC) of 133Xe for this technique is 0.008 mBq/m3, and it is the most sensitive method used today. The 133Xe concentration in the atmospheric air of Cherepovets City varied in the monitoring period ranging from 0.09 to 2.5 mBq/m3. During the period of March 2007-30 July 2008, 133Xe activity concentration in the atmospheric air of St. Petersburg changed from background values (0.2-0.3 mBq/m3) to 185 mBq/m3 and for approximately 20% of the samples 135Xe was also measured with the 135Xe/133Xe activity ratio varied within the range of 0.03-3.5.

Effects of small interfering RNA inhibit Class I phosphoinositide 3-kinase on human gastric cancer cells

PubMed Central

Zhu, Bao-Song; Yu, Li-Yan; Zhao, Kui; Wu, Yong-You; Cheng, Xiao-Li; Wu, Yong; Zhong, Feng-Yun; Gong, Wei; Chen, Qiang; Xing, Chun-Gen

2013-01-01

AIM: To investigate the effects of small interfering RNA (siRNA)-mediated inhibition of Class I phosphoinositide 3-kinase (Class I PI3K) signal transduction on the proliferation, apoptosis, and autophagy of gastric cancer SGC7901 and MGC803 cells. METHODS: We constructed the recombinant replication adenovirus PI3K(I)-RNA interference (RNAi)-green fluorescent protein (GFP) and control adenovirus NC-RNAi-GFP, and infected it into human gastric cancer cells. MTT assay was used to determine the growth rate of the gastric cancer cells. Activation of autophagy was monitored with monodansylcadaverine (MDC) staining after adenovirus PI3K(I)-RNAi-GFP and control adenovirus NC-RNAi-GFP treatment. Immunofluorescence staining was used to detect the expression of microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3). Mitochondrial membrane potential was measured using the fluorescent probe JC-1. The expression of autophagy was monitored with MDC, LC3 staining, and transmission electron microscopy. Western blotting was used to detect p53, Beclin-1, Bcl-2, and LC3 protein expression in the culture supernatant. RESULTS: The viability of gastric cancer cells was inhibited after siRNA targeting to the Class I PI3K blocked Class I PI3K signal pathway. MTT assays revealed that, after SGC7901 cancer cells were treated with adenovirus PI3K(I)-RNAi-GFP, the rate of inhibition reached 27.48% ± 2.71% at 24 h, 41.92% ± 2.02% at 48 h, and 50.85% ± 0.91% at 72 h. After MGC803 cancer cells were treated with adenovirus PI3K(I)-RNAi-GFP, the rate of inhibition reached 24.39% ± 0.93% at 24 h, 47.00% ± 0.87% at 48 h, and 70.30% ± 0.86% at 72 h (P < 0.05 compared to control group). It was determined that when 50 MOI, the transfection efficiency was 95% ± 2.4%. Adenovirus PI3K(I)-RNAi-GFP (50 MOI) induced mitochondrial dysfunction and activated cell apoptosis in SGC7901 cells, and the results described here prove that RNAi of Class I PI3K induced apoptosis in SGC7901 cells. The results showed that adenovirus PI3K(I)-RNAi-GFP transfection induced punctate distribution of LC3 immunoreactivity, indicating increased formation of autophagosomes. The results showed that the basal level of Beclin-1 and LC3 protein in SGC7901 cells was low. After incubating with adenovirus PI3K(I)-RNAi-GFP (50 MOI), Beclin-1, LC3, and p53 protein expression was significantly increased from 24 to 72 h. We also found that Bcl-2 protein expression down-regulated with the treatment of adenovirus PI3K(I)-RNAi-GFP (50 MOI). A number of isolated membranes, possibly derived from ribosome-free endoplasmic reticulum, were seen. These isolated membranes were elongated and curved to engulf a cytoplasmic fraction and organelles. We used transmission electron microscopy to identify ultrastructural changes in SGC7901 cells after adenovirus PI3K(I)-RNAi-GFP (50 MOI) treatment. Control cells showed a round shape and contained normal-looking organelles, nucleus, and chromatin, while adenovirus PI3K(I)-RNAi-GFP (50 MOI)-treated cells exhibited the typical signs of autophagy. CONCLUSION: After the Class I PI3K signaling pathway has been blocked by siRNA, the proliferation of cells was inhibited and the apoptosis of gastric cancer cells was enhanced. PMID:23555164

Zimbabwe

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-02-01

owned land for redistribution to black farmers. The referendum failed, and the MDC won nearly half the seats in the 2000 parliamentary election...war that resulted in more than 30,000 dead, the white minority rule government of Southern Rhodesia concluded a series of agreements with the black ...approved in June 2007. Critics suggest the revisions were cosmetic . In the 2005 elections ZANU-PF won over two-thirds of the seats in the House of

Treatment and desalination of domestic wastewater for water reuse in a four-chamber microbial desalination cell.

PubMed

Lu, Yaobin; Abu-Reesh, Ibrahim M; He, Zhen

2016-09-01

Microbial desalination cells (MDCs) have been studied for contaminant removal from wastewater and salinity reduction in saline water. However, in an MDC wastewater treatment and desalination occurs in different streams, and high salinity of the treated wastewater creates challenges for wastewater reuse. Herein, a single-stream MDC (SMDC) with four chambers was developed for simultaneous organic removal and desalination in the same synthetic wastewater. This SMDC could achieve a desalination rate of 12.2-31.5 mg L(-1) h(-1) and remove more than 90 % of the organics and 75 % of NH4 (+)-N; the pH imbalance between the anode and cathode chambers was also reduced. Several strategies such as controlling catholyte pH, increasing influent COD concentration, adopting the batch mode, applying external voltage, and increasing the alkalinity of wastewater were investigated for improving the SMDC performance. Under a condition of 0.4 V external voltage, anolyte pH adjustment, and a batch mode, the SMDC decreased the wastewater salinity from 1.45 to below 0.75 mS cm(-1), which met the salinity standard of wastewater for irrigation. Those results encourage further development of the SMDC technology for sustainable wastewater treatment and reuse.

Safety in numbers 3: Authenticity, Building knowledge & skills and Competency development & assessment: the ABC of safe medication dosage calculation problem-solving pedagogy.

PubMed

Weeks, Keith W; Meriel Hutton, B; Coben, Diana; Clochesy, John M; Pontin, David

2013-03-01

When designing learning and assessment environments it is essential to articulate the underpinning education philosophy, theory, model and learning style support mechanisms that inform their structure and content. We elaborate on original PhD research that articulates the design rationale of authentic medication dosage calculation problem-solving (MDC-PS) learning and diagnostic assessment environments. These environments embody the principles of authenticity, building knowledge and skills and competency assessment and are designed to support development of competence and bridging of the theory-practice gap. Authentic learning and diagnostic assessment environments capture the features and expert practices that are located in real world practice cultures and recreate them in authentic virtual clinical environments. We explore how this provides students with a safe virtual authentic environment to actively experience, practice and undertake MDC-PS learning and assessment activities. We argue that this is integral to the construction and diagnostic assessment of schemata validity (mental constructions and frameworks that are an individual's internal representation of their world), bridging of the theory-practice gap and cognitive and functional competence development. We illustrate these principles through the underpinning pedagogical design of two online virtual authentic learning and diagnostic assessment environments (safeMedicate and eDose™). Copyright © 2012. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Medical decision-making capacity in cognitively impaired Parkinson's disease patients without dementia.

PubMed

Martin, Roy C; Okonkwo, Ozioma C; Hill, Joni; Griffith, H Randall; Triebel, Kristen; Bartolucci, Alfred; Nicholas, Anthony P; Watts, Ray L; Stover, Natividad; Harrell, Lindy E; Clark, David; Marson, Daniel C

2008-10-15

Little is currently known about the higher order functional skills of patients with Parkinson disease and cognitive impairment. Medical decision-making capacity (MDC) was assessed in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) with cognitive impairment and dementia. Participants were 16 patients with PD and cognitive impairment without dementia (PD-CIND), 16 patients with PD dementia (PDD), and 22 healthy older adults. All participants were administered the Capacity to Consent to Treatment Instrument (CCTI), a standardized capacity instrument assessing MDC under five different consent standards. Parametric and nonparametric statistical analyses were utilized to examine capacity performance on the consent standards. In addition, capacity outcomes (capable, marginally capable, or incapable outcomes) on the standards were identified for the two patient groups. Relative to controls, PD-CIND patients demonstrated significant impairment on the understanding treatment consent standard, clinically the most stringent CCTI standard. Relative to controls and PD-CIND patients, PDD patients were impaired on the three clinical standards of understanding, reasoning, and appreciation. The findings suggest that impairment in decisional capacity is already present in cognitively impaired patients with PD without dementia and increases as these patients develop dementia. Clinicians and researchers should carefully assess decisional capacity in all patients with PD with cognitive impairment. (c) 2008 Movement Disorder Society.

Let's Make Data Count

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Budden, A. E.; Abrams, S.; Chodacki, J.; Cruse, P.; Fenner, M.; Jones, M. B.; Lowenberg, D.; Rueda, L.; Vieglais, D.

2017-12-01

The impact of research has traditionally been measured by citations to journal publications and used extensively for evaluation and assessment in academia, but this process misses the impact and reach of data and software as first-class scientific products. For traditional publications, Article-Level Metrics (ALM) capture the multitude of ways in which research is disseminated and used, such as references and citations within social media and other journal articles. Here we present on the extension of usage and citation metrics collection to include other artifacts of research, namely datasets. The Make Data Count (MDC) project will enable measuring the impact of research data in a manner similar to what is currently done with publications. Data-level metrics (DLM) are a multidimensional suite of indicators measuring the broad reach and use of data as legitimate research outputs. By making data metrics openly available for reuse in a number of different ways, the MDC project represents an important first step on the path towards the full integration of data metrics into the research data management ecosystem. By assuring researchers that their contributions to scholarly progress represented by data corpora are acknowledged, data level metrics provide a foundation for streamlining the advancement of knowledge by actively promoting desirable best practices regarding research data management, publication, and sharing.

A High Diet Quality Based on Dietary Recommendations Is Not Associated with Lower Incidence of Type 2 Diabetes in the Malmö Diet and Cancer Cohort

PubMed Central

Mandalazi, Emmanuel; Drake, Isabel; Wirfält, Elisabet; Orho-Melander, Marju; Sonestedt, Emily

2016-01-01

A high diet quality index based on Swedish nutrition recommendations has previously been associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality in the Malmö Diet and Cancer (MDC) cohort. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether this diet quality index was associated with the risk for type 2 diabetes. Of 26,868 participants (44–74 years) in the MDC cohort study, 3838 type 2 diabetes cases were identified from registers during 17 years of follow-up. A diet quality index (from a modified diet history method) was constructed based on adherence to the recommended intakes of saturated fat, polyunsaturated fat, fish, fiber, fruit and vegetables, and sucrose. After adjusting for potential confounders, we observed no significant association between the diet quality index and type 2 diabetes risk. The HR for the highest vs. lowest index category was 1.06 (95% CI: 0.94, 1.20; p-trend = 0.56). Because of the protective associations shown for cardiovascular disease and mortality, the specific dietary components that were chosen to represent adherence to the recommendations may be less applicable to type 2 diabetes risk. PMID:27338354

The Immediate Effects of Upper Thoracic Translatoric Spinal Manipulation on Cervical Pain and Range of Motion: A Randomized Clinical Trial

PubMed Central

Krauss, John; Creighton, Doug; Ely, Jonathan D.; Podlewska-Ely, Joanna

2008-01-01

This study examined the effect of translatoric spinal manipulation (TSM) on cervical pain and cervical active motion restriction when applied to upper thoracic (T1-T4) segments. Active cervical rotation range of motion was measured re- and post-intervention with a cervical inclinometer (CROM), and cervical pain status was monitored before and after manipulation with a Faces Pain Scale. Study participants included a sample of convenience that included 32 patients referred to physical therapy with complaints of pain in the mid-cervical region and restricted active cervical rotation. Twenty-two patients were randomly assigned to the experimental group and ten were assigned to the control group. Pre- and post-intervention cervical range of motion and pain scale measurements were taken by a physical therapist assistant who was blinded to group assignment. The experimental group received TSM to hypomobile upper thoracic segments. The control group received no intervention. Paired t-tests were used to analyze within-group changes in cervical rotation and pain, and a 2-way repeated-measure ANOVA was used to analyze between-group differences in cervical rotation and pain. Significance was accepted at p = 0.05. Significant changes that exceeded the MDC95 were detected for cervical rotation both within group and between groups with the TSM group demonstrating increased mean (SD) in right rotation of 8.23° (7.41°) and left rotation of 7.09° (5.83°). Pain levels perceived during post-intervention cervical rotation showed significant improvement during right rotation for patients experiencing pain during bilateral rotation only (p=.05). This study supports the hypothesis that spinal manipulation applied to the upper thoracic spine (T1-T4 motion segments) significantly increases cervical rotation ROM and may reduce cervical pain at end range rotation for patients experiencing pain during bilateral cervical rotation. PMID:19119394

Immune markers of social cognitive bias in schizophrenia.

PubMed

Dunne, Patrick W; Roberts, David L; Quinones, Marlon P; Velligan, Dawn I; Paredes, Madelaine; Walss-Bass, Consuelo

2017-05-01

Social cognition is impaired in schizophrenia, is relatively independent of purely neurocognitive domains such as attention and executive functioning, and may be the strongest predictor of functional outcome in this disease. Within a motivated reasoning framework, we tested the hypothesis that the anti-inflammatory Th2-associated cytokines, IL-10 and MDC, would be correlated with behavioral measures of social cognitive threat-detection bias (self-referential gaze detection bias and theory of mind (ToM) bias) in delusional versus non-delusional patients. We administered to schizophrenia patients with delusions (n=21), non-delusional patients (n=39) and controls (n=20) a social cognitive task designed to be sensitive to psychosocial stress response (the Waiting Room Task) and collected plasma levels of inflammatory markers using a bead-based flow immunoassay. Results partially supported our hypothesis. The anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 was associated with self-referential ToM bias in the delusional cohort as predicted, and not with non-delusional patients or healthy controls. This bias reflects a documented tendency of schizophrenia patients with delusions to excessively attribute hostile intentions to people in their environment. Since this cytokine correlated only with ToM bias and only in delusional patients, elevated levels of this cytokine in the blood may eventually serve as a useful biomarker distinguishing delusional patients from both non-delusional patients and healthy controls. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Development and Validation of the 34-Item Disability Screening Questionnaire (DSQ-34) for Use in Low and Middle Income Countries Epidemiological and Development Surveys

PubMed Central

Trani, Jean-François; Babulal, Ganesh Muneshwar; Bakhshi, Parul

2015-01-01

Background Although 80% of persons with disabilities live in low and middle-income countries, there is still a lack of comprehensive, cross-culturally validated tools to identify persons facing activity limitations and functioning difficulties in these settings. In absence of such a tool, disability estimates vary considerably according to the methodology used, and policies are based on unreliable estimates. Methods and Findings The Disability Screening Questionnaire composed of 27 items (DSQ-27) was initially designed by a group of international experts in survey development and disability in Afghanistan for a national survey. Items were selected based on major domains of activity limitations and functioning difficulties linked to an impairment as defined by the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health. Face, content and construct validity, as well as sensitivity and specificity were examined. Based on the results obtained, the tool was subsequently refined and expanded to 34 items, tested and validated in Darfur, Sudan. Internal consistency for the total DSQ-34 using a raw and standardized Cronbach’s Alpha and within each domain using a standardized Cronbach’s Alpha was examined in the Asian context (India and Nepal). Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) using principal axis factoring (PAF) evaluated the lowest number of factors to account for the common variance among the questions in the screen. Test-retest reliability was determined by calculating intraclass correlation (ICC) and inter-rater reliability by calculating the kappa statistic; results were checked using Bland-Altman plots. The DSQ-34 was further tested for standard error of measurement (SEM) and for the minimum detectable change (MDC). Good internal consistency was indicated by Cronbach’s Alpha of 0.83/0.82 for India and 0.76/0.78 for Nepal. We confirmed our assumption for EFA using the Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin measure of sampling well above the accepted cutoff of 0.40 for India (0.82) and Nepal (0.82). The criteria for Bartlett’s test of sphericity were also met for both India (< .001) and Nepal (< .001). Estimates of reliability from the two countries reached acceptable levels of ICC of 0.75 (p<0.001) for India of 0.77 for Nepal (p<0.001) and good strength of agreement for weighted kappa (respectively 0.77 and 0.79). The SEM/MDC was 0.80/2.22 for India and 0.96/2.66 for Nepal indicating a smaller amount of measurement error in the screen. Conclusions In Nepal and India, the DSQ-34 shows strong psychometric properties that indicate that it effectively discriminates between persons with and without disabilities. This instrument can be used in association with other instruments for the purpose of comparing health outcomes of persons with and without disabilities in LMICs. PMID:26630668

Modifications to give HOPE/MDC 2.0 the capability to solve for or consider vent forces: Mission planning, mission analysis, and software formulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zyla, L. V.

1979-01-01

The modifications are described as necessary to give the Houston Operations Predictor/Estimator (HOPE) program the capability to solve for or consider vent forces for orbit determination. The model implemented in solving for vent forces is described along with the integrator problems encountered. A summary derivation of the mathematical principles applicable to solve/consider methodology is provided.

Resilient Multi-Domain Command and Control: Enabling Solutions for 2025 with Virtual Reality

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-04-16

AIR WAR COLLEGE AIR UNIVERSITY RESILIENT MULTI-DOMAIN COMMAND AND CONTROL : ENABLING SOLUTIONS FOR 2025 WITH VIRTUAL REALITY by...monolithic, command and control (C2) sites, such as the theater Air Operation Centers (AOC), at risk. The Multi-Domain Command and Control (MDC2...Air Force respond to the these threats, considering the use of new and existing weapons and concepts, to ensure our ability to command, control and

Identifying Growth Conditions for Nicotiana benthimiana Resulting in Predictable Gene Expression of Promoter-Gus Fusion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sandoval, V.; Barton, K.; Longhurst, A.

2012-12-01

Revoluta (Rev) is a transcription factor that establishes leaf polarity inArabidopsis thaliana. Through previous work in Dr. Barton's Lab, it is known that Revoluta binds to the ZPR3 promoter, thus activating the ZPR3 gene product inArabidopsis thaliana. Using this knowledge, two separate DNA constructs were made, one carrying revgene and in the other, the ZPR3 promoter fussed with the GUS gene. When inoculated in Nicotiana benthimiana (tobacco), the pMDC32 plasmid produces the Rev protein. Rev binds to the ZPR3 promoter thereby activating the transcription of the GUS gene, which can only be expressed in the presence of Rev. When GUS protein comes in contact with X-Gluc it produce the blue stain seen (See Figure 1). In the past, variability has been seen of GUS expression on tobacco therefore we hypothesized that changing the growing conditions and leaf age might improve how well it's expressed.

Translation of the Neck Disability Index and validation of the Greek version in a sample of neck pain patients.

PubMed

Trouli, Marianna N; Vernon, Howard T; Kakavelakis, Kyriakos N; Antonopoulou, Maria D; Paganas, Aristofanis N; Lionis, Christos D

2008-07-22

Neck pain is a highly prevalent condition resulting in major disability. Standard scales for measuring disability in patients with neck pain have a pivotal role in research and clinical settings. The Neck Disability Index (NDI) is a valid and reliable tool, designed to measure disability in activities of daily living due to neck pain. The purpose of our study was the translation and validation of the NDI in a Greek primary care population with neck complaints. The original version of the questionnaire was used. Based on international standards, the translation strategy comprised forward translations, reconciliation, backward translation and pre-testing steps. The validation procedure concerned the exploration of internal consistency (Cronbach alpha), test-retest reliability (Intraclass Correlation Coefficient, Bland and Altman method), construct validity (exploratory factor analysis) and responsiveness (Spearman correlation coefficient, Standard Error of Measurement and Minimal Detectable Change) of the questionnaire. Data quality was also assessed through completeness of data and floor/ceiling effects. The translation procedure resulted in the Greek modified version of the NDI. The latter was culturally adapted through the pre-testing phase. The validation procedure raised a large amount of missing data due to low applicability, which were assessed with two methods. Floor or ceiling effects were not observed. Cronbach alpha was calculated as 0.85, which was interpreted as good internal consistency. Intraclass correlation coefficient was found to be 0.93 (95% CI 0.84-0.97), which was considered as very good test-retest reliability. Factor analysis yielded one factor with Eigenvalue 4.48 explaining 44.77% of variance. The Spearman correlation coefficient (0.3; P = 0.02) revealed some relation between the change score in the NDI and Global Rating of Change (GROC). The SEM and MDC were calculated as 0.64 and 1.78 respectively. The Greek version of the NDI measures disability in patients with neck pain in a reliable, valid and responsive manner. It is considered a useful tool for research and clinical settings in Greek Primary Health Care.

Translation of the Neck Disability Index and validation of the Greek version in a sample of neck pain patients

PubMed Central

Trouli, Marianna N; Vernon, Howard T; Kakavelakis, Kyriakos N; Antonopoulou, Maria D; Paganas, Aristofanis N; Lionis, Christos D

2008-01-01

Background Neck pain is a highly prevalent condition resulting in major disability. Standard scales for measuring disability in patients with neck pain have a pivotal role in research and clinical settings. The Neck Disability Index (NDI) is a valid and reliable tool, designed to measure disability in activities of daily living due to neck pain. The purpose of our study was the translation and validation of the NDI in a Greek primary care population with neck complaints. Methods The original version of the questionnaire was used. Based on international standards, the translation strategy comprised forward translations, reconciliation, backward translation and pre-testing steps. The validation procedure concerned the exploration of internal consistency (Cronbach alpha), test-retest reliability (Intraclass Correlation Coefficient, Bland and Altman method), construct validity (exploratory factor analysis) and responsiveness (Spearman correlation coefficient, Standard Error of Measurement and Minimal Detectable Change) of the questionnaire. Data quality was also assessed through completeness of data and floor/ceiling effects. Results The translation procedure resulted in the Greek modified version of the NDI. The latter was culturally adapted through the pre-testing phase. The validation procedure raised a large amount of missing data due to low applicability, which were assessed with two methods. Floor or ceiling effects were not observed. Cronbach alpha was calculated as 0.85, which was interpreted as good internal consistency. Intraclass correlation coefficient was found to be 0.93 (95% CI 0.84–0.97), which was considered as very good test-retest reliability. Factor analysis yielded one factor with Eigenvalue 4.48 explaining 44.77% of variance. The Spearman correlation coefficient (0.3; P = 0.02) revealed some relation between the change score in the NDI and Global Rating of Change (GROC). The SEM and MDC were calculated as 0.64 and 1.78 respectively. Conclusion The Greek version of the NDI measures disability in patients with neck pain in a reliable, valid and responsive manner. It is considered a useful tool for research and clinical settings in Greek Primary Health Care. PMID:18647393

Reduced Susceptibility of DNA Methyltransferase 1 Hypomorphic (Dnmt1N/+) Mice to Hepatic Steatosis upon Feeding Liquid Alcohol Diet

PubMed Central

Yu, Lianbo; Zhang, Xiaoli; Majumder, Sarmila; Motiwala, Tasneem; Khan, Nuzhat; Belury, Martha; McClain, Craig; Jacob, Samson; Ghoshal, Kalpana

2012-01-01

Background Methylation at C-5 (5-mdC) of CpG base pairs, the most abundant epigenetic modification of DNA, is catalyzed by 3 essential DNA methyltransferases (Dnmt1, Dnmt3a and Dnmt3b). Aberrations in DNA methylation and Dnmts are linked to different diseases including cancer. However, their role in alcoholic liver disease (ALD) has not been elucidated. Methodology/Principal Findings Dnmt1 wild type (Dnmt1 +/+) and hypomorphic (Dnmt1 N/+) male mice that express reduced level of Dnmt1 were fed Lieber-DeCarli liquid diet containing ethanol for 6 weeks. Control mice were pair-fed calorie-matched alcohol-free liquid diet, and Dnmtase activity, 5-mdC content, gene expression profile and liver histopathology were evaluated. Ethanol feeding caused pronounced decrease in hepatic Dnmtase activity in Dnmt1 +/+ mice due to decrease in Dnmt1 and Dnmt3b protein levels and upregulation of miR-148 and miR-152 that target both Dnmt1 and Dnmt3b. Microarray and qPCR analysis showed that the genes involved in lipid, xenobiotic and glutathione metabolism, mitochondrial function and cell proliferation were dysregulated in the wild type mice fed alcohol. Surprisingly, Dnmt1 N/+ mice were less susceptible to alcoholic steatosis compared to Dnmt1 +/+ mice. Expression of several key genes involved in alcohol (Aldh3b1), lipid (Ppara, Lepr, Vldlr, Agpat9) and xenobiotic (Cyp39a1) metabolism, and oxidative stress (Mt-1, Fmo3) were significantly (P<0.05) altered in Dnmt1 N/+ mice relative to the wild type mice fed alcohol diet. However, CpG islands encompassing the promoter regions of Agpat9, Lepr, Mt1 and Ppara were methylation-free in both genotypes irrespective of the diet, suggesting that promoter methylation does not regulate their expression. Similarly, 5-mdC content of the liver genome, as measured by LC-MS/MS analysis, was not affected by alcohol diet in the wild type or hypomorphic mice. Conclusions/Significance Although feeding alcohol diet reduced Dnmtase activity, the loss of one copy of Dnmt1 protected mice from alcoholic hepatosteatosis by dysregulating genes involved in lipid metabolism and oxidative stress. PMID:22905112

Fabrication and test of inorganic/organic separators. [for silver zinc batteries

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smatko, J. S.

1974-01-01

Completion of testing and failure analysis of MDC 40 Ahr silver zinc cells containing largely inorganic separators was accomplished. The results showed that the wet stand and cycle life objectives of the silver zinc cell development program were accomplished. Building, testing and failure analysis of two plate cells employing three optimum separators selected on the basis of extensive screening tests, was performed. The best separator material as a result of these tests was doped calcium zirconate.

Corneal Protection for Burn Patients

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-11-01

multiplex immunoassays utilizing the Luminex bead array were procured. Tested chemokines/cytokines include EGF, FGF-2, Eotaxin, IFN, GRO, MDC, PDGF-BB, IL...17A, IL-1RA, IL- 3, IL-6, IL-8, MP-1a and VEGF. A separate assay was used to test for matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP 9) given its known up...regulation in dry eye models and clinical scenarios. The tested cytokines were chosen based on their reported prevalence in dry eye states and the

Susceptibility to cytotoxic T cell lysis of cancer stem cells derived from cervical and head and neck tumor cell lines.

PubMed

Liao, Tian; Kaufmann, Andreas M; Qian, Xu; Sangvatanakul, Voramon; Chen, Chao; Kube, Tina; Zhang, Guoyou; Albers, Andreas E

2013-01-01

To explore cancer stem cell susceptibility to a host's cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL)-mediated immune response. We compared the susceptibility of putative CSC generated from cancer cell lines to immunologic recognition and killing by alloantigen-specific CD8(+) CTL. CSC-enriched spheroid culture-derived cells (SDC) exhibited higher expression of ALDH, ICAM1 and of stem/progenitor cell markers on all 3 tumor cell lines investigated and lower MHC class I on the cervical cancer cell line as compared to their monolayer-derived cells (MDC). The expression of ICAM1 and MHCI was upregulated by IFN-γ treatment. CSC populations were less sensitive to MHC class I-restricted alloantigen-specific CD8(+) CTL lysis as compared to matched MDC. IFN-γ pretreatment resulted in over-proportionally enhanced lysis of SDC. Finally, the subset of ALDH(high) expressing SDC presented more sensitivity toward CD8(+) CTL killing than the ALDH(low) SDC. Tumor therapy resistance has been attributed to cancer stem cells (CSC). We show in vitro susceptibility of CSC to CTL-mediated lysis. Immunotherapy targeting of ALDH(+) CSC may therefore be a promising approach. Our results and method may be helpful for the development and optimization of adjuvants, as here exemplified for INF-γ, for CSC-targeted vaccines, independent of the availability of CSC-specific antigens.

Preserved dendritic cell HLA-DR expression and reduced regulatory T cell activation in asymptomatic Plasmodium falciparum and P. vivax infection.

PubMed

Kho, Steven; Marfurt, Jutta; Noviyanti, Rintis; Kusuma, Andreas; Piera, Kim A; Burdam, Faustina H; Kenangalem, Enny; Lampah, Daniel A; Engwerda, Christian R; Poespoprodjo, Jeanne R; Price, Ric N; Anstey, Nicholas M; Minigo, Gabriela; Woodberry, Tonia

2015-08-01

Clinical illness with Plasmodium falciparum or Plasmodium vivax compromises the function of dendritic cells (DC) and expands regulatory T (Treg) cells. Individuals with asymptomatic parasitemia have clinical immunity, restricting parasite expansion and preventing clinical disease. The role of DC and Treg cells during asymptomatic Plasmodium infection is unclear. During a cross-sectional household survey in Papua, Indonesia, we examined the number and activation of blood plasmacytoid DC (pDC), CD141(+), and CD1c(+) myeloid DC (mDC) subsets and Treg cells using flow cytometry in 168 afebrile children (of whom 15 had P. falciparum and 36 had P. vivax infections) and 162 afebrile adults (of whom 20 had P. falciparum and 20 had P. vivax infections), alongside samples from 16 patients hospitalized with uncomplicated malaria. Unlike DC from malaria patients, DC from children and adults with asymptomatic, microscopy-positive P. vivax or P. falciparum infection increased or retained HLA-DR expression. Treg cells in asymptomatic adults and children exhibited reduced activation, suggesting increased immune responsiveness. The pDC and mDC subsets varied according to clinical immunity (asymptomatic or symptomatic Plasmodium infection) and, in asymptomatic infection, according to host age and parasite species. In conclusion, active control of asymptomatic infection was associated with and likely contingent upon functional DC and reduced Treg cell activation. Copyright © 2015, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

Risk models for post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis (PEP): smoking and chronic liver disease are predictors of protection against PEP.

PubMed

DiMagno, Matthew J; Spaete, Joshua P; Ballard, Darren D; Wamsteker, Erik-Jan; Saini, Sameer D

2013-08-01

We investigated which variables independently associated with protection against or development of postendoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) pancreatitis (PEP) and severity of PEP. Subsequently, we derived predictive risk models for PEP. In a case-control design, 6505 patients had 8264 ERCPs, 211 patients had PEP, and 22 patients had severe PEP. We randomly selected 348 non-PEP controls. We examined 7 established- and 9 investigational variables. In univariate analysis, 7 variables predicted PEP: younger age, female sex, suspected sphincter of Oddi dysfunction (SOD), pancreatic sphincterotomy, moderate-difficult cannulation (MDC), pancreatic stent placement, and lower Charlson score. Protective variables were current smoking, former drinking, diabetes, and chronic liver disease (CLD, biliary/transplant complications). Multivariate analysis identified seven independent variables for PEP, three protective (current smoking, CLD-biliary, CLD-transplant/hepatectomy complications) and 4 predictive (younger age, suspected SOD, pancreatic sphincterotomy, MDC). Pre- and post-ERCP risk models of 7 variables have a C-statistic of 0.74. Removing age (seventh variable) did not significantly affect the predictive value (C-statistic of 0.73) and reduced model complexity. Severity of PEP did not associate with any variables by multivariate analysis. By using the newly identified protective variables with 3 predictive variables, we derived 2 risk models with a higher predictive value for PEP compared to prior studies.

Microbial desalination cell with sulfonated sodium poly(ether ether ketone) as cation exchange membranes for enhancing power generation and salt reduction.

PubMed

Moruno, Francisco Lopez; Rubio, Juan E; Atanassov, Plamen; Cerrato, José M; Arges, Christopher G; Santoro, Carlo

2018-06-01

Microbial desalination cell (MDC) is a bioelectrochemical system capable of oxidizing organics, generating electricity, while reducing the salinity content of brine streams. As it is designed, anion and cation exchange membranes play an important role on the selective removal of ions from the desalination chamber. In this work, sulfonated sodium (Na + ) poly(ether ether ketone) (SPEEK) cation exchange membranes (CEM) were tested in combination with quaternary ammonium chloride poly(2,6-dimethyl 1,4-phenylene oxide) (QAPPO) anion exchange membrane (AEM). Non-patterned and patterned (varying topographical features) CEMs were investigated and assessed in this work. The results were contrasted against a commercially available CEM. This work used real seawater from the Pacific Ocean in the desalination chamber. The results displayed a high desalination rate and power generation for all the membranes, with a maximum of 78.6±2.0% in salinity reduction and 235±7mWm -2 in power generation for the MDCs with the SPEEK CEM. Desalination rate and power generation achieved are higher with synthesized SPEEK membranes when compared with an available commercial CEM. An optimized combination of these types of membranes substantially improves the performances of MDC, making the system more suitable for real applications. Copyright © 2018 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Role of Dendritic Cells in the Pathogenesis of Whipple's Disease

PubMed Central

Schinnerling, Katina; Geelhaar-Karsch, Anika; Allers, Kristina; Friebel, Julian; Conrad, Kristina; Loddenkemper, Christoph; Kühl, Anja A.; Erben, Ulrike; Ignatius, Ralf; Schneider, Thomas

2014-01-01

Accumulation of Tropheryma whipplei-stuffed macrophages in the duodenum, impaired T. whipplei-specific Th1 responses, and weak secretion of interleukin-12 (IL-12) are hallmarks of classical Whipple's disease (CWD). This study addresses dendritic cell (DC) functionality during CWD. We documented composition, distribution, and functionality of DC ex vivo or after in vitro maturation by fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) and by immunohistochemistry in situ. A decrease in peripheral DC of untreated CWD patients compared to healthy donors was due to reduced CD11chigh myeloid DC (M-DC). Decreased maturation markers CD83, CD86, and CCR7, as well as low IL-12 production in response to stimulation, disclosed an immature M-DC phenotype. In vitro-generated monocyte-derived DC from CWD patients showed normal maturation and T cell-stimulatory capacity under proinflammatory conditions but produced less IL-12 and failed to activate T. whipplei-specific Th1 cells. In duodenal and lymphoid tissues, T. whipplei was found within immature DC-SIGN+ DC. DC and proliferating lymphocytes were reduced in lymph nodes of CWD patients compared to levels in controls. Our results indicate that dysfunctional IL-12 production by DC provides suboptimal conditions for priming of T. whipplei-specific T cells during CWD and that immature DC carrying T. whipplei contribute to the dissemination of the bacterium. PMID:25385798

Measurement properties of the Human Activity Profile questionnaire in hospitalized patients.

PubMed

Souza, Daniel C; Wegner, Fernando; Costa, Lucíola C M; Chiavegato, Luciana D; Lunardi, Adriana C

To test the measurement properties (reproducibility, internal consistency, ceiling and floor effects, and construct validity) of the Human Activity Profile (HAP) questionnaire in hospitalized patients. This measurement properties study recruited one-hundred patients hospitalized for less than 48h for clinical or surgical reasons. The HAP was administered at baseline and after 48h in a test-retest design). The International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ-6) was also administered at baseline, aiming to assess the construct validity. We tested the following measurement properties: reproducibility (reliability assessed by type 2,1 intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC 2,1 )); agreement by the standard error of measurement (SEM) and by the minimum detectable change with 90% confidence (MDC 90 ), internal consistency by Cronbach's alpha, construct validity using a chi-square test, and ceiling and floor effects by calculating the proportion of patients who achieved the minimum or maximum scores. Reliability was excellent with an ICC of 0.99 (95% CI=0.98-0.99). SEM was 1.44 points (1.5% of the total score), the MDD 90 was 3.34 points (3.5% of the total score) and the Cronbach's alpha was 0.93 (alpha if item deleted ranging from 0.94 to 0.94). An association was observed between patients classified by HAP and by IPAQ-6 (χ 2 =3.38; p=0.18). Ceiling or floor effects were not observed. The HAP shows adequate measurement properties for the assessment of the physical activity/inactivity level in hospitalized patients. Copyright © 2017 Associação Brasileira de Pesquisa e Pós-Graduação em Fisioterapia. Publicado por Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

Use of a tibial accelerometer to measure ground reaction force in running: A reliability and validity comparison with force plates.

PubMed

Raper, Damian P; Witchalls, Jeremy; Philips, Elissa J; Knight, Emma; Drew, Michael K; Waddington, Gordon

2018-01-01

The use of microsensor technologies to conduct research and implement interventions in sports and exercise medicine has increased recently. The objective of this paper was to determine the validity and reliability of the ViPerform as a measure of load compared to vertical ground reaction force (GRF) as measured by force plates. Absolute reliability assessment, with concurrent validity. 10 professional triathletes ran 10 trials over force plates with the ViPerform mounted on the mid portion of the medial tibia. Calculated vertical ground reaction force data from the ViPerform was matched to the same stride on the force plate. Bland-Altman (BA) plot of comparative measure of agreement was used to assess the relationship between the calculated load from the accelerometer and the force plates. Reliability was calculated by intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC) with 95% confidence intervals. BA plot indicates minimal agreement between the measures derived from the force plate and ViPerform, with variation at an individual participant plot level. Reliability was excellent (ICC=0.877; 95% CI=0.825-0.917) in calculating the same vertical GRF in a repeated trial. Standard error of measure (SEM) equalled 99.83 units (95% CI=82.10-119.09), which, in turn, gave a minimum detectable change (MDC) value of 276.72 units (95% CI=227.32-330.07). The ViPerform does not calculate absolute values of vertical GRF similar to those measured by a force plate. It does provide a valid and reliable calculation of an athlete's lower limb load at constant velocity. Copyright © 2017 Sports Medicine Australia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A valid and reliable method to measure jump-specific training and competition load in elite volleyball players.

PubMed

Skazalski, C; Whiteley, R; Hansen, C; Bahr, R

2018-05-01

Use of a commercially available wearable device to monitor jump load with elite volleyball players has become common practice. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the validity and reliability of this device, the Vert, to count jumps and measure jump height with professional volleyball players. Jump count accuracy was determined by comparing jumps recorded by the device to jumps observed through systematic video analysis of three practice sessions and two league matches performed by a men's professional volleyball team. Jumps performed by 14 players were each coded for time and jump type and individually matched to device recorded jumps. Jump height validity of the device was examined against reference standards as participants performed countermovement jumps on a force plate and volleyball-specific jumps with a Vertec. The Vert device accurately counted 99.3% of the 3637 jumps performed during practice and match play. The device showed excellent jump height interdevice reliability for two devices placed in the same pouch during volleyball jumps (r = .99, 95% CI 0.98-0.99). The device had a minimum detectable change (MDC) of 9.7 cm and overestimated jump height by an average of 5.5 cm (95% CI 4.5-6.5) across all volleyball jumps. The Vert device demonstrates excellent accuracy counting volleyball-specific jumps during training and competition. While the device is not recommended to measure maximal jumping ability when precision is needed, it provides an acceptable measure of on-court jump height that can be used to monitor athlete jump load. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Cross-cultural adaptation and psychometric analysis of the Arabic version of the oxford knee score in adult male with knee osteoarthritis.

PubMed

Alghadir, Ahmad H; Al-Eisa, Einas S; Anwer, Shahnawaz

2017-05-15

There are varieties of self-assessment questionnaire used for the evaluation of pain, functional disability, and health related quality of life in individuals with knee osteoarthritis (OA). The present study intended to adapt and translate the oxford knee score into the Arabic and investigated its psychometric properties in adult male with knee OA. Ninety-seven adult male (mean age 57.55 ± 11.49 years) with knee OA participated. Patients were requested to complete the adapted Arabic version of the Oxford knee score (OKS-Ar), reduced "Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Index (WOMAC)", and the Visual analogue scale (VAS). Patients were requested to complete 2 nd form of OKS-Ar at least 1 week apart to assess the reproducibility of the score. The OKS was adapted and translated into Arabic by two independent Arabic native speakers (one rehabilitation professional having experience of knee OA patients and another one a trained translator) according to the international guidelines. All the participants completed the 2 nd form of OKS-Ar (Response rate 100%). Reliability and internal consistency was high with an ICC of 0.97, and the Cronbach's alpha coefficient of 0.987, respectively. A significant relationship between the OKS-Ar and the WOMAC and VAS scores confirmed the construct validity (p < 0.001). The standard error of measurement (SEM) and the minimum detectable change (MDC) were 2.2 and 6.2, respectively. The adapted Arabic version of the OKS demonstrated acceptable psychometric properties, including reliability, internal consistency, and the validity. The present study indicates that the OKS-Ar is a suitable questionnaire to measure pain and physical function in the Arabic speaking adult male patients with knee OA.

Simplified Radiographic Damage Index for Affected Joints in Chronic Gouty Arthritis

PubMed Central

2016-01-01

The aim of this study was to develop and validate a new radiographic damage scoring method (DAmagE index of GoUt; DAEGU) in chronic gout using plain radiography. Two independent observers scored foot x-rays from 15 patients with chronic gout according to the DAEGU method and the modified Sharp/van der Heijde (SvdH) method. The 10 metatarsophalangeal (MTP) and 2 interphalangeal (IP) joints of the first toes of both feet were scored to assess the degrees of erosion and joint space narrowing (JSN). The intraobserver and interobserver reliabilities were analyzed by calculating the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and minimal detectable change (MDC). The correlation between the DAEGU and SvdH methods was analyzed by calculating the Spearman's rho correlation coefficients and Kappa coefficients. The DAEGU method was found to be highly reproducible (0.945–0.987 for the intraobserver and 0.993–0.996 for the interobserver ICC values). The erosion, JSN, and total scores exhibited strong positive correlations between the DAEGU and SvdH methods and also within each method (r = 0.860–0.969, P < 0.001 for all parameters). The DAEGU and SvdH methods were in very good agreement as determined by Kappa coefficient analysis [0.732 (0.387–1.000) for erosion and 1.000 (1.000–1.000) for JSN]. In conclusion, this study revealed that DAEGU method was a reliable and feasible tool in the assessment of radiographic damage in chronic gout. The DAEGU method may provide a more easy assessment of structural damage in chronic gout in the real clinical practice. PMID:26955246

Irradiation With Carbon Ion Beams Induces Apoptosis, Autophagy, and Cellular Senescence in a Human Glioma-Derived Cell Line

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

Jinno-Oue, Atsushi; Shimizu, Nobuaki; 21st Century Center of Excellence Program for Biomedical Research Using Accelerator Technology, Maebashi, Gunma

2010-01-15

Purpose: We examined biological responses of human glioma cells to irradiation with carbon ion beams (C-ions). Methods and Materials: A human glioma-derived cell line, NP-2, was irradiated with C-ions. Apoptotic cell nuclei were stained with Hoechst 33342. Induction of autophagy was examined either by staining cells with monodansylcadaverine (MDC) or by Western blotting to detect conversion of microtuble-associated protein light chain 3 (MAP-LC3) (LC3-I) to the membrane-bound form (LC3-II). Cellular senescence markers including induction of senescence-associated beta-galactosidase (SA-beta-gal) were examined. The mean telomere length of irradiated cells was determined by Southern blot hybridization. Expression of tumor suppressor p53 and cyclin/cyclin-dependentmore » kinase inhibitor p21{sup WAF1/CIP1} in the irradiated cells was analyzed by Western blotting. Results: When NP-2 cells were irradiated with C-ions at 6 Gy, the major population of the cells died of apoptosis and autophagy. The residual fraction of attached cells (<1% of initially irradiated cells) could not form a colony: however, they showed a morphological phenotype consistent with cellular senescence, that is, enlarged and flattened appearance. The senescent nature of these attached cells was further indicated by staining for SA-beta-gal. The mean telomere length was not changed after irradiation with C-ions. Phosphorylation of p53 at serine 15 as well as the expression of p21{sup WAF1/CIP1} was induced in NP-2 cells after irradiation. Furthermore, we found that irradiation with C-ions induced cellular senescence in a human glioma cell line lacking functional p53. Conclusions: Irradiation with C-ions induced apoptosis, autophagy, and cellular senescence in human glioma cells.« less

Reliability and validity of CODA motion analysis system for measuring cervical range of motion in patients with cervical spondylosis and anterior cervical fusion.

PubMed

Gao, Zhongyang; Song, Hui; Ren, Fenggang; Li, Yuhuan; Wang, Dong; He, Xijing

2017-12-01

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the reliability of the Cartesian Optoelectronic Dynamic Anthropometer (CODA) motion system in measuring the cervical range of motion (ROM) and verify the construct validity of the CODA motion system. A total of 26 patients with cervical spondylosis and 22 patients with anterior cervical fusion were enrolled and the CODA motion analysis system was used to measure the three-dimensional cervical ROM. Intra- and inter-rater reliability was assessed by interclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), standard error of measurement (SEm), Limits of Agreements (LOA) and minimal detectable change (MDC). Independent samples t-tests were performed to examine the differences of cervical ROM between cervical spondylosis and anterior cervical fusion patients. The results revealed that in the cervical spondylosis group, the reliability was almost perfect (intra-rater reliability: ICC, 0.87-0.95; LOA, -12.86-13.70; SEm, 2.97-4.58; inter-rater reliability: ICC, 0.84-0.95; LOA, -13.09-13.48; SEm, 3.13-4.32). In the anterior cervical fusion group, the reliability was high (intra-rater reliability: ICC, 0.88-0.97; LOA, -10.65-11.08; SEm, 2.10-3.77; inter-rater reliability: ICC, 0.86-0.96; LOA, -10.91-13.66; SEm, 2.20-4.45). The cervical ROM in the cervical spondylosis group was significantly higher than that in the anterior cervical fusion group in all directions except for left rotation. In conclusion, the CODA motion analysis system is highly reliable in measuring cervical ROM and the construct validity was verified, as the system was sufficiently sensitive to distinguish between the cervical spondylosis and anterior cervical fusion groups based on their ROM.

The prone bridge test: Performance, validity, and reliability among older and younger adults.

PubMed

Bohannon, Richard W; Steffl, Michal; Glenney, Susan S; Green, Michelle; Cashwell, Leah; Prajerova, Kveta; Bunn, Jennifer

2018-04-01

The prone bridge maneuver, or plank, has been viewed as a potential alternative to curl-ups for assessing trunk muscle performance. The purpose of this study was to assess prone bridge test performance, validity, and reliability among younger and older adults. Sixty younger (20-35 years old) and 60 older (60-79 years old) participants completed this study. Groups were evenly divided by sex. Participants completed surveys regarding physical activity and abdominal exercise participation. Height, weight, body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference were measured. On two occasions, 5-9 days apart, participants held a prone bridge until volitional exhaustion or until repeated technique failure. Validity was examined using data from the first session: convergent validity by calculating correlations between survey responses, anthropometrics, and prone bridge time, known groups validity by using an ANOVA comparing bridge times of younger and older adults and of men and women. Test-retest reliability was examined by using a paired t-test to compare prone bridge times for Session1 and Session 2. Furthermore, an intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to characterize relative reliability and minimal detectable change (MDC 95% ) was used to describe absolute reliability. The mean prone bridge time was 145.3 ± 71.5 s, and was positively correlated with physical activity participation (p ≤ 0.001) and negatively correlated with BMI and waist circumference (p ≤ 0.003). Younger participants had significantly longer plank times than older participants (p = 0.003). The ICC between testing sessions was 0.915. The prone bridge test is a valid and reliable measure for evaluating abdominal performance in both younger and older adults. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Longitudinal documentation of serum cartilage oligomeric matrix protein and patient reported outcomes in collegiate soccer athletes over the course of an athletic season

PubMed Central

Hoch, Johanna M.; Mattacola, Carl G.; Bush, HeatherM.; McKeon, Jennifer Medina; Hewett, Timothy E.; Lattermann, Christian

2013-01-01

Background Serum cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (sCOMP) is a biomarker for cartilage degradation. Patient reported outcomes (PRO) are used to document post-injury recovery and may be used to prospectively identify changes in the course of a season. It is unknown what effect intense, continuous physical activity has on sCOMP levels and PRO values in athletes over the duration of a soccer season. Hypothesis/Purpose The purpose of this study was to longitudinally document sCOMP levels, and to determine if changes in PROs occur in collegiate soccer athletes during a season. The hypotheses tested were that sCOMP levels and PRO scores would remain stable over the duration of the spring soccer season. Study Design Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods 29 NCAA Division-I soccer athletes (18 males, 11 females, age:19.6±1.2 years, height:177.8±7.4cm, mass:73.8±10.2kg) participated in three[pre-(T1), mid-(T2), and post-season(T3)] data collection sessions. Subjects were included if they participated in the spring soccer season and were free of severe knee injury at the time of data collection. At each session subjects completed PROs (Lysholm, IKDC) before serum collection. Results For sCOMP(ng/mL) there was a significant effect for time with significant increases at T2(1723.5±257.9, p<0.0001) and T3(1624.7±231.6, p=0.002) when compared with T1(1482.9±217.9). For each of the PROs there was a significant effect for time with increases from T1-T2 and T2-T3. Conclusions These data indicate sCOMP levels increased as athletes reported an increased level of function over time. However, the differences in sCOMP levels did not reach the calculated MDC value and the differences in PRO scores did not reach previously calculated MDC values. It is unclear if these increases in sCOMP levels were due to an increase in cartilage matrix breakdown or turnover. Even though these elevations may not be clinically meaningful, this biomarker may have the potential to be used for future research studies investigating the effects of exercise on overall joint health in longitudinal studies. In addition, these results indicate fluctuations in sCOMP occur during a competitive season and must be taken into consideration for future biomarker studies. PMID:22967826

Community-Based Multidisciplinary Care for Patients With Stable Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

PubMed Central

Sikich, N

2012-01-01

Executive Summary In July 2010, the Medical Advisory Secretariat (MAS) began work on a Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) evidentiary framework, an evidence-based review of the literature surrounding treatment strategies for patients with COPD. This project emerged from a request by the Health System Strategy Division of the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care that MAS provide them with an evidentiary platform on the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of COPD interventions. After an initial review of health technology assessments and systematic reviews of COPD literature, and consultation with experts, MAS identified the following topics for analysis: vaccinations (influenza and pneumococcal), smoking cessation, multidisciplinary care, pulmonary rehabilitation, long-term oxygen therapy, noninvasive positive pressure ventilation for acute and chronic respiratory failure, hospital-at-home for acute exacerbations of COPD, and telehealth (including telemonitoring and telephone support). Evidence-based analyses were prepared for each of these topics. For each technology, an economic analysis was also completed where appropriate. In addition, a review of the qualitative literature on patient, caregiver, and provider perspectives on living and dying with COPD was conducted, as were reviews of the qualitative literature on each of the technologies included in these analyses. The Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Mega-Analysis series is made up of the following reports, which can be publicly accessed at the MAS website at: http://www.hqontario.ca/en/mas/mas_ohtas_mn.html. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Evidentiary Framework Influenza and Pneumococcal Vaccinations for Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): An Evidence-Based Analysis Smoking Cessation for Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): An Evidence-Based Analysis Community-Based Multidisciplinary Care for Patients With Stable Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): An Evidence-Based Analysis Pulmonary Rehabilitation for Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): An Evidence-Based Analysis Long-term Oxygen Therapy for Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): An Evidence-Based Analysis Noninvasive Positive Pressure Ventilation for Acute Respiratory Failure Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): An Evidence-Based Analysis Noninvasive Positive Pressure Ventilation for Chronic Respiratory Failure Patients With Stable Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): An Evidence-Based Analysis Hospital-at-Home Programs for Patients With Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): An Evidence-Based Analysis Home Telehealth for Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): An Evidence-Based Analysis Cost-Effectiveness of Interventions for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Using an Ontario Policy Model Experiences of Living and Dying With COPD: A Systematic Review and Synthesis of the Qualitative Empirical Literature For more information on the qualitative review, please contact Mita Giacomini at: http://fhs.mcmaster.ca/ceb/faculty_member_giacomini.htm. For more information on the economic analysis, please visit the PATH website: http://www.path-hta.ca/About-Us/Contact-Us.aspx. The Toronto Health Economics and Technology Assessment (THETA) collaborative has produced an associated report on patient preference for mechanical ventilation. For more information, please visit the THETA website: http://theta.utoronto.ca/static/contact. Objective The objective of this evidence-based analysis was to determine the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of multidisciplinary care (MDC) compared with usual care (UC, single health care provider) for the treatment of stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Clinical Need: Condition and Target Population Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a progressive disorder with episodes of acute exacerbations associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Cigarette smoking is linked causally to COPD in more than 80% of cases. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is among the most common chronic diseases worldwide and has an enormous impact on individuals, families, and societies through reduced quality of life and increased health resource utilization and mortality. The estimated prevalence of COPD in Ontario in 2007 was 708,743 persons. Technology Multidisciplinary care involves professionals from a range of disciplines, working together to deliver comprehensive care that addresses as many of the patient’s health care and psychosocial needs as possible. Two variables are inherent in the concept of a multidisciplinary team: i) the multidisciplinary components such as an enriched knowledge base and a range of clinical skills and experiences, and ii) the team components, which include but are not limited to, communication and support measures. However, the most effective number of team members and which disciplines should comprise the team for optimal effect is not yet known. Research Question What is the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of MDC compared with UC (single health care provider) for the treatment of stable COPD? Research Methods Literature Search Search Strategy A literature search was performed on July 19, 2010 using OVID MEDLINE, OVID MEDLINE In-Process and Other Non-Indexed Citations, OVID EMBASE, EBSCO Cumulative Index to Nursing & Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), the Wiley Cochrane Library, and the Centre for Reviews and Dissemination database, for studies published from January 1, 1995 until July 2010. Abstracts were reviewed by a single reviewer and, for those studies meeting the eligibility criteria, full-text articles were obtained. Reference lists were also examined for any additional relevant studies not identified through the search. Inclusion Criteria health technology assessments, systematic reviews, or randomized controlled trials studies published between January 1995 and July 2010; COPD study population studies comparing MDC (2 or more health care disciplines participating in care) compared with UC (single health care provider) Exclusion Criteria grey literature duplicate publications non-English language publications study population less than 18 years of age Outcomes of Interest hospital admissions emergency department (ED) visits mortality health-related quality of life lung function Quality of Evidence The quality of each included study was assessed, taking into consideration allocation concealment, randomization, blinding, power/sample size, withdrawals/dropouts, and intention-to-treat analyses. The quality of the body of evidence was assessed as high, moderate, low, or very low according to the GRADE Working Group criteria. The following definitions of quality were used in grading the quality of the evidence: High Further research is very unlikely to change confidence in the estimate of effect. Moderate Further research is likely to have an important impact on confidence in the estimate of effect and may change the estimate. Low Further research is very likely to have an important impact on confidence in the estimate of effect and is likely to change the estimate. Very Low Any estimate of effect is very uncertain. Summary of Findings Six randomized controlled trials were obtained from the literature search. Four of the 6 studies were completed in the United States. The sample size of the 6 studies ranged from 40 to 743 participants, with a mean study sample between 66 and 71 years of age. Only 2 studies characterized the study sample in terms of the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) COPD stage criteria, and in general the description of the study population in the other 4 studies was limited. The mean percent predicted forced expiratory volume in 1 second (% predicted FEV1) among study populations was between 32% and 59%. Using this criterion, 3 studies included persons with severe COPD and 2 with moderate COPD. Information was not available to classify the population in the sixth study. Four studies had MDC treatment groups which included a physician. All studies except 1 reported a respiratory specialist (i.e., respiratory therapist, specialist nurse, or physician) as part of the multidisciplinary team. The UC group was comprised of a single health care practitioner who may or may not have been a respiratory specialist. A meta-analysis was completed for 5 of the 7 outcome measures of interest including: health-related quality of life, lung function, all-cause hospitalization, COPD-specific hospitalization, and mortality. There was only 1 study contributing to the outcome of all-cause and COPD-specific ED visits which precluded pooling data for these outcomes. Subgroup analyses were not completed either because heterogeneity was not significant or there were a small number of studies that were meta-analysed for the outcome. Quality of Life Three studies reported results of quality of life assessment based on the St. George’s Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ). A mean decrease in the SGRQ indicates an improvement in quality of life while a mean increase indicates deterioration in quality of life. In all studies the mean change score from baseline to the end time point in the MDC treatment group showed either an improvement compared with the control group or less deterioration compared with the control group. The mean difference in change scores between MDC and UC groups was statistically significant in all 3 studies. The pooled weighted mean difference in total SGRQ score was −4.05 (95% confidence interval [CI], −6.47 to 1.63; P = 0.001). The GRADE quality of evidence was assessed as low for this outcome. Lung Function Two studies reported results of the FEV1 % predicted as a measure of lung function. A negative change from baseline infers deterioration in lung function and a positive change from baseline infers an improvement in lung function. The MDC group showed a statistically significant improvement in lung function up to 12 months compared with the UC group (P = 0.01). However this effect is not maintained at 2-year follow-up (P = 0.24). The pooled weighted mean difference in FEV1 percent predicted was 2.78 (95% CI, −1.82 to −7.37). The GRADE quality of evidence was assessed as very low for this outcome indicating that an estimate of effect is uncertain. Hospital Admissions All-Cause Four studies reported results of all-cause hospital admissions in terms of number of persons with at least 1 admission during the follow-up period. Estimates from these 4 studies were pooled to determine a summary estimate. There is a statistically significant 25% relative risk (RR) reduction in all-cause hospitalizations in the MDC group compared with the UC group (P < 0.001). The index of heterogeneity (I2) value is 0%, indicating no statistical heterogeneity between studies. The GRADE quality of evidence was assessed as moderate for this outcome, indicating that further research may change the estimate of effect. COPD-Specific Hospitalization Three studies reported results of COPD-specific hospital admissions in terms of number of persons with at least 1 admission during the follow-up period. Estimates from these 3 studies were pooled to determine a summary estimate. There is a statistically significant 33% RR reduction in all-cause hospitalizations in the MDC group compared with the UC group (P = 0.002). The I2 value is 0%, indicating no statistical heterogeneity between studies. The GRADE quality of evidence was assessed as moderate for this outcome, indicating that further research may change the estimate of effect. Emergency Department Visits All-Cause Two studies reported results of all-cause ED visits in terms of number of persons with at least 1 visit during the follow-up period. There is a statistically nonsignificant reduction in all-cause ED visits when data from these 2 studies are pooled (RR, 0.64; 95% CI, 0.31 to −1.33; P = 0.24). The GRADE quality of evidence was assessed as very low for this outcome indicating that an estimate of effect is uncertain. COPD-Specific One study reported results of COPD-specific ED visits in terms of number of persons with at least 1 visit during the follow-up period. There is a statistically significant 41% reduction in COPD-specific ED visits when the data from these 2 studies are pooled (RR, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.43−0.81; P < 0.001). The GRADE quality of evidence was assessed as moderate for this outcome. Mortality Three studies reported the mortality during the study follow-up period. Estimates from these 3 studies were pooled to determine a summary estimate. There is a statistically nonsignificant reduction in mortality between treatment groups (RR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.52−1.27; P = 0.36). The I2 value is 19%, indicating low statistical heterogeneity between studies. All studies had a 12-month follow-up period. The GRADE quality of evidence was assessed as low for this outcome. Conclusions Significant effect estimates with moderate quality of evidence were found for all-cause hospitalization, COPD-specific hospitalization, and COPD-specific ED visits (Table ES1). A significant estimate with low quality evidence was found for the outcome of quality of life (Table ES2). All other outcome measures were nonsignificant and supported by low or very low quality of evidence. Table ES1: Summary of Dichotomous Data Outcome Number ofStudies(n) Relative Risk(95% CI) GRADE Hospitalizations             All-cause (number of persons) 4(1121) 0.75 (0.64−0.87) Moderate       COPD-specific (number of persons) 3(916) 0.67 (0.52−0.87) Moderate Emergency Department Visits             All-cause (number of persons) 2(223) 0.64 (0.31−1.33) Very Low       COPD-specific (number of persons) 2(783) 0.59 (0.43−0.81) Moderate Mortality         3(1033) 0.81 (0.52−1.27) Low * Abbreviations: CI, confidence intervals; COPD, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; n, number. Table ES2: Summary of Continuous Data Outcome Number ofStudies(n) Weighted Mean Difference (95% CI) GRADE Quality of Life (SGRQ) 2(942) −4.05 (−6.47 to −1.63) Low Lung Function (FEV1% predicted) 2(316) 2.78 (−1.82−7.37) Very Low * Abbreviations: CI, confidence intervals; FEV1, forced expiratory volume in 1 second; n, number; SGRQ, St. George’s Respiratory Questionnaire. PMID:23074433

A mediator methylation mystery: JMJD1C demethylates MDC1 to regulate DNA repair.

PubMed

Lu, Jian; Matunis, Michael J

2013-12-01

Mediator of DNA-damage checkpoint 1 (MDMDC1) has a central role in repair of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) by both homologous recombination and nonhomologous end joining, and its function is regulated by post-translational phosphorylation, ubiquitylation and sumoylation. In this issue, a new study by Watanabe et al. reveals that methylation of MDMDC1 is also critical for its function in DSB repair and specifically affects repair through BRCA1-dependent homologous recombination.

A Simulated Annealing Algorithm for the Optimization of Multistage Depressed Collector Efficiency

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vaden, Karl R.; Wilson, Jeffrey D.; Bulson, Brian A.

2002-01-01

The microwave traveling wave tube amplifier (TWTA) is widely used as a high-power transmitting source for space and airborne communications. One critical factor in designing a TWTA is the overall efficiency. However, overall efficiency is highly dependent upon collector efficiency; so collector design is critical to the performance of a TWTA. Therefore, NASA Glenn Research Center has developed an optimization algorithm based on Simulated Annealing to quickly design highly efficient multi-stage depressed collectors (MDC).

A Surface Panel Method for the Hydrodynamic Analysis of Ducted Propellers

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-01-01

Flow About Arbitrary Three-Dimensional Lifting Bodies," Technical Report MDC J5679-01, McDonnell Douglas Corp., Oct. 197. 32 Van Manen , J. D...to that developed by Van Houten (4] for use with his vortex of a control point is less than the radius of the true surface. lattice ducted propeller...Boswell, R. J. and Miller, M. L., "Unsteady Propeller Load- erlands, 1983. ing-Measurement, Correlation, with Theory and Parametric 4 Van Houten, R

Function of ZFAND3 in the DNA Damage Response

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-06-01

Department of Defense Breast Cancer Program Era of Hope Conference August 2011 iv. Sirbu BM, Couch FB, Feigerle JT, Bhaskara S, Hiebert SW, Cortez D...Analysis of protein dynamics at active, stalled and collapsed replication forks; Vanderbilt Institute of Chemical and Physical Biology August 2011...BRIP1 MED16 FANCD2 COMT TONSL FANCI CUL2 TRRAP MDC1 DMD UNG PDS5B DNPH1 WRN POLE FANCI RFC1 INCENP RPA1 JMJD6 SART3 KIAA1598 BLM SMARCAD1 NBAS BRIP1

Real-Time Adaptive Control of Mixing in a Plane Shear Layer

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-02-02

l’icoulement d’un fuide visqueux incompressible autour d’un cylinder fixe ou en rotation. Effet Magnus . J. Mdc. 14, 109-134. TANEDA, S. 1977 Visual study...Mokhtarian & Yokomizo 1990), and in lift enhancement schemes employing the Magnus effect (Swanson 1961). Rotation of all or part of a body may also have...coordinate system. In this work, the body-fitted grid is simply one of cylindrical polar coordinates and is time-independent, except for a = 3.25 where

The Role of the DNA Damage Response in Breast Cancer

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-02-01

p53, ATM, Chk2, BRCA1, 53BP1, and MDC1 are mutated or inactivated in many human malignancies including breast cancer [6, 9-15]. ATM nullizygosity...receptor family of receptor tyrosine kinases, is amplified in 20-30% of human breast cancers [32, 33]. The genes encoding ErbB1, ErbB3, and insulin-like...engender a robust DDR that has been previously observed in human breast clinical samples but not in established mouse models of mammary cancer

Multi-stage Depressed Collectors (MDC) for efficiency improvements of UHF broadcast klystrons

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kosmahl, H. G.

1982-01-01

The consumed primary power is reduced and the efficiency of traveling wave tubes is raised through the use of depressed collectors which passively convert potential energy into electric energy. Efficiency was kept with constant within a 3 dB range while the output power varied by 10 dB. Aspects to be considered in transferring this technology to UHF klystrons are the electron energy spectrum of the klystron and the magnitude of the injection angle required.

Ginkgo biloba exocarp extracts induces autophagy in Lewis lung cancer cells involving AMPK / mTOR / p70S6k signaling pathway.

PubMed

Cao, Chenjie; Han, Dongdong; Su, Ya; Ge, Yu; Chen, Huasheng; Xu, Aihua

2017-09-01

Ginkgo biloba L. is called a living fossil plant, and could be used for the treatment of cancer thousands of years ago in China. The extracts prepared from the Ginkgo biloba exocarp (Ginkgo biloba exocarp extracts, GBEE) has a significant anti-cancer effect. Autophagy plays an important role in the occurrence and development of cancer as programmed cell death (PCD) type II. Thus it would be interesting to study the effects and mechanisms of GBEE inducing autophagy in Lewis lung cancer (LLC) cells. MTT method was used to detect the inhibitory effect of GBEE on LLC cells. Monodansylcadaverine (MDC) staining method was applied to observe the formation of acidic vacuoles in cells. The ultrastructure of LLC cells was observed using transmission electron microscope (TEM) to confirm the formation of autophagosomes. Quantify reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to detect the mRNA levels of Beclin1 and Atg5. Western Blot was used to detect the protein levels of Beclin1, Atg5, LC3I/II, p-AMPK, AMPK, p-mTOR, mTOR, p-p70S6k and p70S6K in LLC cells. GBEE (5-160μg/mL) inhibited the proliferation of LLC cells in vitro with the half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of 161.26μg/mL. The formation and activation of acidic vacuoleswere increased by the action of GBEE (10, 20 and 40μg/mL) on LLC cells. The autophagosomes were also increased. Meanwhile, it up-regulated both the mRNA and protein levels of Beclin1 and Atg5. The ratio of LC3-I/LC3-II protein was down-regulated. In addition, the protein level of p-AMPK was increased, and the p-mTOR and p-p70S6K was decreased. But the AMPK, mTOR and p70S6K proteins were not significantly changed. The inhibitory effect of GBEE on LLC is associate with inducing autophagy in LLC cells, which may be closely relevant to the regulation of AMPK/mTOR/p70S6k signaling pathways. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Increased urine acylcarnitines in diabetic ApoE-/- mice: Hydroxytetradecadienoylcarnitine (C14:2-OH) reflects diabetic nephropathy in a context of hyperlipidemia

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

Mirzoyan, Koryun; Université Toulouse III Paul-Sabatier Toulouse; Klavins, Kristaps

Hyperlipidemia is a risk factor for initiation and progression of diabetic nephropathy but the metabolic pathways altered in the diabetic kidney in a context of hyperlipidemia remain incompletely described. Assuming that changes in urine composition reflect the alteration of renal metabolism and function, we analyzed the urine metabolite composition of diabetic (streptozotocin-treatment) and control (non diabetic) ApoE−/− mice fed a high cholesterol diet using targeted quantitative metabolomics. Urine metabolome was also compared to the plasma metabolome of the same animals. As previously shown, urine albuminuria/urine creatinine ratio (uACR) and glomerular area and plasma lipids (cholesterol, triglycerides) were more elevated inmore » diabetic mice compared to control. After adjustment to urine creatinine, the abundance of 52 urine metabolites was significantly different in diabetic mice compared to control. Among them was a unique metabolite, C14:2-OH (3-hydroxytetradecadienoylcarnitine) that, in diabetic mice, was positively and significantly correlated with uACR, glomerular hypertrophy, blood glucose and plasma lipids. That metabolite was not detected in plasma. C14:2-OH is a long-chain acylcarnitine reminiscent of altered fatty acid beta oxidation. Other acylcarnitines, particularly the short chains C3-OH, C3-DC, C4:1, C5-DC, C5-M-DC, C5-OH that are reminiscent of altered oxidation of branched and aromatic amino acids were also exclusively detected in urine but were only correlated with plasma lipids. Finally, the renal gene expression of several enzymes involved in fatty acid and/or amino acid oxidation was significantly reduced in diabetic mice compared to control. This included the bifunctional enoyl-CoA hydratase/3-hydroxyacyl-CoA (Ehhadh) that might play a central role in C14:2-OH production. This study indicate that the development of diabetes in a context of hyperlipidemia is associated with a reduced capacity of kidney to oxidize fatty acids and amino acids with the consequence of an elevation of urinary acetylcarnitines including C14:2-OH that specifically reflects diabetic nephropathy.« less

Increased urine acylcarnitines in diabetic ApoE-/- mice: Hydroxytetradecadienoylcarnitine (C14:2-OH) reflects diabetic nephropathy in a context of hyperlipidemia.

PubMed

Mirzoyan, Koryun; Klavins, Kristaps; Koal, Therese; Gillet, Marion; Marsal, Dimitri; Denis, Colette; Klein, Julie; Bascands, Jean-Loup; Schanstra, Joost P; Saulnier-Blache, Jean-Sébastien

2017-05-20

Hyperlipidemia is a risk factor for initiation and progression of diabetic nephropathy but the metabolic pathways altered in the diabetic kidney in a context of hyperlipidemia remain incompletely described. Assuming that changes in urine composition reflect the alteration of renal metabolism and function, we analyzed the urine metabolite composition of diabetic (streptozotocin-treatment) and control (non diabetic) ApoE-/- mice fed a high cholesterol diet using targeted quantitative metabolomics. Urine metabolome was also compared to the plasma metabolome of the same animals. As previously shown, urine albuminuria/urine creatinine ratio (uACR) and glomerular area and plasma lipids (cholesterol, triglycerides) were more elevated in diabetic mice compared to control. After adjustment to urine creatinine, the abundance of 52 urine metabolites was significantly different in diabetic mice compared to control. Among them was a unique metabolite, C14:2-OH (3-hydroxytetradecadienoylcarnitine) that, in diabetic mice, was positively and significantly correlated with uACR, glomerular hypertrophy, blood glucose and plasma lipids. That metabolite was not detected in plasma. C14:2-OH is a long-chain acylcarnitine reminiscent of altered fatty acid beta oxidation. Other acylcarnitines, particularly the short chains C3-OH, C3-DC, C4:1, C5-DC, C5-M-DC, C5-OH that are reminiscent of altered oxidation of branched and aromatic amino acids were also exclusively detected in urine but were only correlated with plasma lipids. Finally, the renal gene expression of several enzymes involved in fatty acid and/or amino acid oxidation was significantly reduced in diabetic mice compared to control. This included the bifunctional enoyl-CoA hydratase/3-hydroxyacyl-CoA (Ehhadh) that might play a central role in C14:2-OH production. This study indicate that the development of diabetes in a context of hyperlipidemia is associated with a reduced capacity of kidney to oxidize fatty acids and amino acids with the consequence of an elevation of urinary acetylcarnitines including C14:2-OH that specifically reflects diabetic nephropathy. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Analytical prediction with multidimensional computer programs and experimental verification of the performance, at a variety of operating conditions, of two traveling wave tubes with depressed collectors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dayton, J. A., Jr.; Kosmahl, H. G.; Ramins, P.; Stankiewicz, N.

1979-01-01

Experimental and analytical results are compared for two high performance, octave bandwidth TWT's that use depressed collectors (MDC's) to improve the efficiency. The computations were carried out with advanced, multidimensional computer programs that are described here in detail. These programs model the electron beam as a series of either disks or rings of charge and follow their multidimensional trajectories from the RF input of the ideal TWT, through the slow wave structure, through the magnetic refocusing system, to their points of impact in the depressed collector. Traveling wave tube performance, collector efficiency, and collector current distribution were computed and the results compared with measurements for a number of TWT-MDC systems. Power conservation and correct accounting of TWT and collector losses were observed. For the TWT's operating at saturation, very good agreement was obtained between the computed and measured collector efficiencies. For a TWT operating 3 and 6 dB below saturation, excellent agreement between computed and measured collector efficiencies was obtained in some cases but only fair agreement in others. However, deviations can largely be explained by small differences in the computed and actual spent beam energy distributions. The analytical tools used here appear to be sufficiently refined to design efficient collectors for this class of TWT. However, for maximum efficiency, some experimental optimization (e.g., collector voltages and aperture sizes) will most likely be required.

Reliability and validity of an iPhone(®) application for the measurement of lumbar spine flexion and extension range of motion.

PubMed

Pourahmadi, Mohammad Reza; Taghipour, Morteza; Jannati, Elham; Mohseni-Bandpei, Mohammad Ali; Ebrahimi Takamjani, Ismail; Rajabzadeh, Fatemeh

2016-01-01

Measurement of lumbar spine range of motion (ROM) is often considered to be an essential component of lumbar spine physiotherapy and orthopedic assessment. The measurement can be carried out through various instruments such as inclinometers, goniometers, and etc. Recent smartphones have been equipped with accelerometers and magnetometers, which, through specific software applications (apps) can be used for inclinometric functions. The main purpose was to investigate the reliability and validity of an iPhone(®) app (TiltMeter(©) -advanced level and inclinometer) for measuring standing lumbar spine flexion-extension ROM in asymptomatic subjects. A cross-sectional study was carried out. This study was conducted in a physiotherapy clinic located at School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Iran University of Medical Science and Health Services, Tehran, Iran. A convenience sample of 30 asymptomatic adults (15 males; 15 females; age range = 18-55 years) was recruited between August 2015 and December 2015. Following a 2-minute warm-up, the subjects were asked to stand in a relaxed position and their skin was marked at the T12-L1 and S1-S2 spinal levels. From this position, they were asked to perform maximum lumbar flexion followed by maximum lumbar extension with their knees straight. Two blinded raters each used an inclinometer and the iPhone (®) app to measure lumbar spine flexion-extension ROM. A third rater read the measured angles. To calculate total lumbar spine flexion-extension ROM, the measurement from S1-S2 was subtracted from T12-L1. The second (2 hours later) and third (48 hours later) sessions were carried out in the same manner as the first session. All of the measurements were conducted 3 times and the mean value of 3 repetitions for each measurement was used for analysis. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) models (3, k) and (2, k) were used to determine the intra-rater and inter-rater reliability, respectively. The Pearson correlation coefficients were used to establish concurrent validity of the iPhone(®) app. Furthermore, minimum detectable change at the 95% confidence level (MDC95) was computed as 1.96 × standard error of measurement × [Formula: see text]. Good to excellent intra-rater and inter-rater reliability were demonstrated for both the gravity-based inclinometer with ICC values of ≥0.84 and ≥0.77 and the iPhone(®) app with ICC values of ≥0.85 and ≥0.85, respectively. The MDC95 ranged from 5.82°to 8.18°for the intra-rater analysis and from 7.38°to 8.66° for the inter-rater analysis. The concurrent validity for flexion and extension between the 2 instruments was 0.85 and 0.91, respectively. The iPhone(®)app possesses good to excellent intra-rater and inter-rater reliability and concurrent validity. It seems that the iPhone(®) app can be used for the measurement of lumbar spine flexion-extension ROM. IIb.

[Therapy of heart failure with beta-blockers?].

PubMed

Osterziel, K J; Dietz, R

1997-01-01

In heart failure the chronic sympathetic stimulation alters the cardiac beta-adrenergic pathway. This alteration leads to a diminished contractile response to stimulation of the cardiac beta 1 receptor. A blockade of the beta 1 receptor partly restores the physiologic response to sympathetic stimulation at rest and during exercise. Several mechanisms resulting from the competitive blockade of the beta 1 receptor may be important. The major effect of beta-blockers seems to be triggered by a reduction of the heart rate at rest resulting in an increase of the left ventricular ejection fraction on the average by 7-8%. Patients with heart failure who are treated with a beta-blocker experience initially a slight decrease of the left ventricular function. beta-blocker therapy should therefore be initiated only in patients with stable heart failure. The starting dose of the beta-blocker has to be very small, e.g, 5 mg Metoprolol, 1.25 mg Bisoprolol or 3.125 mg Carvedilol. In a stepwise fashion the dose has to be increased to a full beta blocking effect over a period of 4-8 weeks. Despite a careful dose titration only 90% of the patients tolerate this regimen. Patients with high resting heart rates and/or dilated cardiomyopathy will have the greatest benefit. The two main reasons for withdrawal of the beta-blocker are deterioration of heart failure or symptomatic hypotension. Symptomatic improvement and a significant increase of exercise capacity appear gradually and can be measured only after more than 1 month duration of therapy. Three multicenter studies (MDC. CIBIS I, Carvedilol) evaluated the influence of beta-blockers on prognosis of heart failure. The MDC trial demonstrated a slower progression of heart failure with Metoprolol. The MDC and the CIBIS I trial could not show a significant improvement of prognosis. The larger trial with carvedilol was the first study to demonstrate a decreased mortality in patients who initially tolerate the beta-blocker therapy. One major concern in that study is the evaluation and classification of patients in the run-in phase who do not tolerate the beta-blocker. Definite studies (BEST, CIBIS II; COMET; RESOLVED; MERIT) are designed to answer these problems and to evaluate the effect of beta-blockers on mortality. Until the results of these studies are available the main goal of treatment with beta-blockers remains symptomatic improvement. Further, there is good evidence for an additional increase in life expectancy. In order to achieve optimal medical treatment and to avoid side-effects careful clinical evaluation and management of the patients is mandatory during therapy with beta-blockers.

Reliability and validity of functional performance tests in dancers with hip dysfunction.

PubMed

Kivlan, Benjamin R; Carcia, Christopher R; Clemente, F Richard; Phelps, Amy L; Martin, Robroy L

2013-08-01

Quasi-experimental, repeated measures. Functional performance tests that identify hip joint impairments and assess the effect of intervention have not been adequately described for dancers. The purpose of this study was to examine the reliability and validity of hop and balance tests among a group of dancers with musculoskeletal pain in the hip region. NINETEEN FEMALE DANCERS (AGE: 18.90±1.11 years; height: 164.85±6.95 cm; weight: 60.37±8.29 kg) with unilateral hip pain were assessed utilizing the cross-over reach, medial triple hop, lateral triple hop, and cross-over hop tests on two occasions, 2 days apart. Test-retest reliability and comparisons between the involved and uninvolved side for each respective test were determined. Intra-class correlation coefficients for the functional performance tests ranged from 0.89-0.96. The cross-over reach test had a SEM of 2.79 cm and a MDC of 7.73 cm. The medial and lateral triple hop tests had SEM values of 7.51 cm and 8.17 cm, and MDC values of 20.81 cm and 22.62 cm, respectively. The SEM was 0.15 seconds and the MDC was 0.42 seconds for the cross-over hop test. Performance on the medial triple hop test was significantly less on the involved side (370.21±38.26 cm) compared to the uninvolved side (388.05±41.49 cm); t(18) = -4.33, p<0.01. The side-to-side comparisons of the cross-over reach test (involved mean=61.68±10.9 cm; uninvolved mean=61.69±8.63 cm); t(18) = -0.004, p=0.99, lateral triple hop test (involved mean=306.92±35.79 cm; uninvolved mean=310.68±24.49 cm); t(18) = -0.55, p=0.59, and cross-over hop test (involved mean=2.49±0.34 seconds; uninvolved mean= 2.61±0.42 seconds; t(18) = -1.84, p=0.08) were not statistically different between sides. The functional performance tests used in this study can be reliably performed on dancers with unilateral hip pain. The medial triple hop test was the only functional performance test with evidence of validity in side-to-side comparisons. These results suggest that the medial triple hop test may be a reliable and valid functional performance test to assess impairments related to hip pain among dancers. 3b. Non-consecutive cohort study.

RELIABILITY AND VALIDITY OF FUNCTIONAL PERFORMANCE TESTS IN DANCERS WITH HIP DYSFUNCTION

PubMed Central

Carcia, Christopher R.; Clemente, F. Richard; Phelps, Amy L.; Martin, RobRoy L.

2013-01-01

Study Design: Quasi-experimental, repeated measures. Purpose/Background: Functional performance tests that identify hip joint impairments and assess the effect of intervention have not been adequately described for dancers. The purpose of this study was to examine the reliability and validity of hop and balance tests among a group of dancers with musculoskeletal pain in the hip region. Methods: Nineteen female dancers (age: 18.90±1.11 years; height: 164.85±6.95 cm; weight: 60.37±8.29 kg) with unilateral hip pain were assessed utilizing the cross-over reach, medial triple hop, lateral triple hop, and cross-over hop tests on two occasions, 2 days apart. Test-retest reliability and comparisons between the involved and uninvolved side for each respective test were determined. Results: Intra-class correlation coefficients for the functional performance tests ranged from 0.89-0.96. The cross-over reach test had a SEM of 2.79 cm and a MDC of 7.73 cm. The medial and lateral triple hop tests had SEM values of 7.51 cm and 8.17 cm, and MDC values of 20.81 cm and 22.62 cm, respectively. The SEM was 0.15 seconds and the MDC was 0.42 seconds for the cross-over hop test. Performance on the medial triple hop test was significantly less on the involved side (370.21±38.26 cm) compared to the uninvolved side (388.05±41.49 cm); t(18) = −4.33, p<0.01. The side-to-side comparisons of the cross-over reach test (involved mean=61.68±10.9 cm; uninvolved mean=61.69±8.63 cm); t(18) = −0.004, p=0.99, lateral triple hop test (involved mean=306.92±35.79 cm; uninvolved mean=310.68±24.49 cm); t(18) = −0.55, p=0.59, and cross-over hop test (involved mean=2.49±0.34 seconds; uninvolved mean= 2.61±0.42 seconds; t(18) = −1.84, p=0.08) were not statistically different between sides. Conclusion: The functional performance tests used in this study can be reliably performed on dancers with unilateral hip pain. The medial triple hop test was the only functional performance test with evidence of validity in side-to-side comparisons. These results suggest that the medial triple hop test may be a reliable and valid functional performance test to assess impairments related to hip pain among dancers. Level of Evidence: 3b. Non-consecutive cohort study PMID:24175123

Technology Transition and Adoption: A Study in Search of Metrics for Evaluating Transition

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-12-01

Coalitions and Agents Project (Fast C2AP) 3 Direct Thermal to Electric Conversion (DTEC) 3 High-Frequency Active Auroral Project ( HAARP ) Instrument...which the technology is disruptive: 40 RAID TEAM SDS M&DC2 LCCMD DTEC AT3 WASP DOTS LASER Boomerang Virtual Autopsy  Program HAARP PCES Ultralog Sticky...RAID SDS Fast C2AP DTEC AT3 WASP Radar Scope DOTS SPEYES LASER Boomerang MAV ACTD HAARP TEAM PCES Ultralog Sticky Flare Active Templates LCCMD VIVID

Enhanced Androgen Signaling With Androgen Receptor Overexpression in the Osteoblast Lineage Controls Skeletal Turnover, Matrix Quality and Bone Architecture

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-12-01

NUMBER Kristine M. Wiren, Ph.D. and Karl Jepsen, Ph.D. 5e. TASK NUMBER E-Mail: wirenk@ohsu.edu 5f. WORK UNIT NUMBER 7. PERFORMING...1952-1956 4. Ray N, Chan J, Thamer M, Melton Lr 1997 Medical expenditures for the treatment of osteoporotic fractures in the United States in 1995...f Elgene G. Mainous, DDS,a and David N. Herndon, MDc,f aDepartment of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, bDepartment of Pediatrics , cDepartment of

Five-Axis Goniometric Stage

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-02-01

PS4 , Anaheim Automation PSAM24V2.7A) and a custom built variable 24 VDC 5 A power supply (PS5). The input voltage to the variable power supply is...provide power for the four brushless DC motor controllers (Anaheim Automation, MDC050-050051). PS4 supplies power to the optional position sensors...blue) X R15 - (green) 21 R14 + (red) Y R14 - (brown) 22 Z P1 P2 P3 P4 P9 P8 P5 PS1 PS2 PS3 PS4 PS5 19 Pending Distribution A

An Investigation of the Five Point Restraint System for Aviators

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-10-01

Crotch strap loo - .Lneb mdc? plate 11. puate noste on belt 07" Al -2" go ditreace in feel the promest Crotch strop Is posit io ls" AV 11* |lodiag a...upper pelvic bone and scapula bones could be used as the aft protuberances. But when the individuals were seated in the AAH seat, portion, of the...inajor trapeziuH muscle on either side of the backbone pro- ruded farther ali than the scapula bones. The back cushion molded the r Aircraft crash surv

BMI-1 suppression increases the radiosensitivity of oesophageal carcinoma via the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.

PubMed

Yang, Xing-Xiao; Ma, Ming; Sang, Mei-Xiang; Zhang, Xue-Yuan; Liu, Zhi-Kun; Song, Heng; Zhu, Shu-Chai

2018-02-01

B-cell‑specific Moloney murine leukaemia virus integration site-1 (BMI-1) contributes to the growth of tumour cells post-irradiation (IR). The aim of the present study was to characterize the effects of BMI-1 on cell viability, radiosensitivity and its mechanisms of action in oesophageal squamous cell cancer (ESCC). Western blotting and immunohistochemistry were employed to evaluate the protein expression of BMI-1 in ESCC cells and specimens, respectively. Additionally, the protein expression levels of BMI-1, H2AK119ub and γH2AX in ESCC cells were detected following different doses of IR and at different times after IR. The protein expression levels of MDC1 and 53BP1 were also measured. Flow cytometry and MTT assays were used to determine cell cycle progression, apoptosis and cell viability. The phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase inhibitor LY294002 and the agonist IGF-1 were employed to suppress or induce the phosphorylation of Akt to determine whether BMI-1 induces radioresistance in ESCC cells via activation of the PI3K/Akt pathway. The expression of BMI-1 was higher in ESCC tissues and cells compared with that in normal oesophageal tissues and cells. In addition, BMI-1 was positively related to tumour size and lymph node metastases and negatively to the overall survival of ESCC patients. IR induced the expression of BMI-1, H2AK119ub and γH2AX in a dose- and time-dependent manner. BMI-1 knockdown lowered the expression of γH2AX, MDC1 and 53BP1, suppressed cell viability and increased radiosensitivity. G2/M phase arrest was eliminated; this was followed by an increased proportion of cells entering the G0/G1 phase after IR and BMI-1 knockdown via the upregulation of P16 and downregulation of cyclin D2 and cyclin-dependent kinase-4. Moreover, BMI-1 knockdown increased cell apoptosis, downregulated MCL-1 and p-Akt and upregulated Bax. Additionally, the inhibitory effect of the downregulation of p-Akt by LY294002 on tumour cell viability was identical to that of BMI-1 knockdown, while the kinase agonist IGF-1 reversed the effects of BMI-1 knockdown on cell viability and radiosensitivity. Taken together, BMI-1 knockdown induces radiosensitivity in ESCC and significantly inhibits cell viability, which may contribute to an increased proportion of cells in the G0/G1 phase and cell apoptosis via suppression of the PI3K/Akt signalling pathway.

Fault diagnosis of rolling bearings based on multifractal detrended fluctuation analysis and Mahalanobis distance criterion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Jinshan; Chen, Qian

2013-07-01

Vibration data of faulty rolling bearings are usually nonstationary and nonlinear, and contain fairly weak fault features. As a result, feature extraction of rolling bearing fault data is always an intractable problem and has attracted considerable attention for a long time. This paper introduces multifractal detrended fluctuation analysis (MF-DFA) to analyze bearing vibration data and proposes a novel method for fault diagnosis of rolling bearings based on MF-DFA and Mahalanobis distance criterion (MDC). MF-DFA, an extension of monofractal DFA, is a powerful tool for uncovering the nonlinear dynamical characteristics buried in nonstationary time series and can capture minor changes of complex system conditions. To begin with, by MF-DFA, multifractality of bearing fault data was quantified with the generalized Hurst exponent, the scaling exponent and the multifractal spectrum. Consequently, controlled by essentially different dynamical mechanisms, the multifractality of four heterogeneous bearing fault data is significantly different; by contrast, controlled by slightly different dynamical mechanisms, the multifractality of homogeneous bearing fault data with different fault diameters is significantly or slightly different depending on different types of bearing faults. Therefore, the multifractal spectrum, as a set of parameters describing multifractality of time series, can be employed to characterize different types and severity of bearing faults. Subsequently, five characteristic parameters sensitive to changes of bearing fault conditions were extracted from the multifractal spectrum and utilized to construct fault features of bearing fault data. Moreover, Hilbert transform based envelope analysis, empirical mode decomposition (EMD) and wavelet transform (WT) were utilized to study the same bearing fault data. Also, the kurtosis and the peak levels of the EMD or the WT component corresponding to the bearing tones in the frequency domain were carefully checked and used as the bearing fault features. Next, MDC was used to classify the bearing fault features extracted by EMD, WT and MF-DFA in the time domain and assess the abilities of the three methods to extract fault features from bearing fault data. The results show that MF-DFA seems to outperform each of envelope analysis, statistical parameters, EMD and WT in feature extraction of bearing fault data and then the proposed method in this paper delivers satisfactory performances in distinguishing different types and severity of bearing faults. Furthermore, to further ascertain the nature causing the multifractality of bearing vibration data, the generalized Hurst exponents of the original bearing vibration data were compared with those of the shuffled and the surrogated data. Consequently, the long-range correlations for small and large fluctuations of data seem to be chiefly responsible for the multifractality of bearing vibration data.

Effects of tai chi on cognition and instrumental activities of daily living in community dwelling older people with mild cognitive impairment.

PubMed

Siu, Mei-Yi; Lee, Diana T F

2018-02-02

Cognitive impairment places older adults at high risk of functional disability in their daily-life activities, and thus affecting their quality of life. This study aimed to examine the effects of Tai Chi on general cognitive functions and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) in community-dwelling older people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in Hong Kong. The study adopted a multi-site nonequivalent control-group pretest-posttest design. 160 community-dwelling older people, aged ≥60, with MCI, from four community elderly centers participated in the study. The intervention group (IG, n = 80) received training in the Yang-style simple form of Tai Chi, at a frequency of two lessons per week for 16 weeks. Each lesson lasted for one hour. The control group (CG, n = 80) had no treatment regime and joined different recreational activity groups in community centers as usual within the study period. Outcome measures included measures of global cognitive status and IADL. The Chinese version of the Mini-Mental State Examination (CMMSE) was used for global cognitive assessment. The Hong Kong Chinese version of Lawton's Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL-CV) was used to assess the participants' IADL levels. General Estimating Equations (GEE) was used to examine each of the outcome variables for the two groups at the two study time points (the baseline and at the end of the study). Meanwhile, minimum detectable change (MDC) was calculated to estimate the magnitude of changes required to eradicate the possibility of measurement error of outcome measures. Seventy four participants in the IG and 71 participants in the CG completed the study. With adjustments for differences in age, education, marital status and living conditions, the findings revealed that the participants in the IG scored significantly better on the CMMSE test (P = 0.001), and the instrumental ADL questionnaire (P = 0.004). However, those scores changes did not exceed the limits of the respective MDCs in the study, the possibility of measurement variation due to error could not be excluded. Tai Chi may be an effective strategy to enhance cognitive health and maintain functional abilities in instrumental ADL in older people with MCI. NCT03404765 (Retrospectively registered January 19, 2018).

The effect of tibio-femoral traction mobilization on passive knee flexion motion impairment and pain: a case series

PubMed Central

Maher, Sara; Creighton, Doug; Kondratek, Melodie; Krauss, John; Qu, Xianggui

2010-01-01

The purpose of this case series was to explore the effects of tibio-femoral (TF) manual traction on pain and passive range of motion (PROM) in individuals with unilateral motion impairment and pain in knee flexion. Thirteen participants volunteered for the study. All participants received 6 minutes of TF traction mobilization applied at end-range passive knee flexion. PROM measurements were taken before the intervention and after 2, 4, and 6 minutes of TF joint traction. Pain was measured using a visual analog scale with the TF joint at rest, at end-range passive knee flexion, during the application of joint traction, and immediately post-treatment. There were significant differences in PROM after 2 and 4 minutes of traction, with no significance noted after 4 minutes. A significant change in knee flexion of 25.9°, which exceeded the MDC95, was found when comparing PROM measurements pre- to final intervention. While pain did not change significantly over time, pain levels did change significantly during each treatment session. Pain significantly increased when the participant’s knee was passively flexed to end range; it was reduced, although not significantly, during traction mobilization; and it significantly decreased following traction. This case series supports TF joint traction as a means of stretching shortened articular and periarticular tissues without increasing reported levels of pain during or after treatment. In addition, this is the first study documenting the temporal aspects of treatment effectiveness in motion restoration. PMID:21655421

HBV-Derived Synthetic Long Peptide Can Boost CD4+ and CD8+ T-Cell Responses in Chronic HBV Patients Ex Vivo

PubMed Central

Dou, Yingying; van Montfoort, Nadine; van den Bosch, Aniek; de Man, Robert A; Zom, Gijs G; Krebber, Willem-Jan; Melief, Cornelis J M; Buschow, Sonja I; Woltman, Andrea M

2018-01-01

Abstract Background Vaccination with synthetic long peptides (SLP) is a promising new treatment strategy for chronic hepatitis B virus (CHB). SLP can induce broad T-cell responses for all HLA types. Here we investigated the ability of a prototype HBV-core (HBc)-sequence-derived SLP to boost HBV-specific T cells in CHB patients ex vivo. Methods HBc-SLP was used to assess cross-presentation by monocyte-derived dendritic cells (moDC) and BDCA1+ blood myeloid DC (mDC) to engineered HBV-specific CD8+ T cells. Autologous SLP-loaded and toll-like receptor (TLR)-stimulated DC were used to activate patient HBc-specific CD8+ and CD4+ T cells. Results HBV-SLP was cross-presented by moDC, which was further enhanced by adjuvants. Patient-derived SLP-loaded moDC significantly increased autologous HBcAg18-27-specific CD8+ T cells and CD4+ T cells ex vivo. HBV-specific T cells were functional as they synthesized tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interferon-gamma. In 6/7 of patients blockade of PD-L1 further increased SLP effects. Also, importantly, patient-derived BDCA1+ mDC cross-presented and activated autologous T-cell responses ex vivo. Conclusions As a proof of concept, we showed a prototype HBc-SLP can boost T-cell responses in patients ex vivo. These results pave the way for the development of a therapeutic SLP-based vaccine to induce effective HBV-specific adaptive immune responses in CHB patients. PMID:29220492

Gene cloning, recombinant expression, purification and characterization of l-methionine decarboxylase from Streptomyces sp. 590.

PubMed

Hayashi, Masaya; Okada, Akane; Yamamoto, Kumiko; Okugochi, Tomomi; Kusaka, Chika; Kudou, Daizou; Nemoto, Michiko; Inagaki, Junko; Hirose, Yuu; Okajima, Toshihide; Tamura, Takashi; Soda, Kenji; Inagaki, Kenji

2017-04-01

l-Methionine decarboxylase (MetDC) from Streptomyces sp. 590 depends on pyridoxal 5'-phosphate and catalyzes the non-oxidative decarboxylation of l-methionine to produce 3-methylthiopropylamine and carbon dioxide. MetDC gene (mdc) was determined to consist of 1,674 bp encoding 557 amino acids, and the amino acid sequence is similar to that of l-histidine decarboxylases and l-valine decarboxylases from Streptomyces sp. strains. The mdc gene was cloned and recombinant MetDC was heterologously expressed by Escherichia coli. The purification of recombinant MetDC was carried out by DEAE-Toyopearl and Ni-NTA agarose column chromatography. The recombinant enzyme was homodimeric with a molecular mass of 61,000 Da and showed optimal activity between 45 to 55 °C and at pH 6.6, and the stability below 30 °C and between pH 4.6 to 7.0. l-Methionine and l-norleucine were good substrates for MetDC. The Michaelis constants for l-methionine and l-norleucine were 30 and 73 mM, respectively. The recombinant MetDC (0.50 U/ml) severely inhibited growth of human tumour cells A431 (epidermoid ovarian carcinoma cell line) and MDA-MB-231 (breast cancer cell line), however showed relatively low cytotoxicity for human normal cell NHDF-Neo (dermal fibroblast cell line from neonatal foreskin). This study revealed the properties of the gene and the protein sequence of MetDC for the first time. © The Authors 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Japanese Biochemical Society. All rights reserved.

The effect of aliskiren on urinary cytokine/chemokine responses to clamped hyperglycaemia in type 1 diabetes.

PubMed

Cherney, David Z I; Reich, Heather N; Scholey, James W; Daneman, Denis; Mahmud, Farid H; Har, Ronnie L H; Sochett, Etienne B

2013-10-01

Acute clamped hyperglycaemia activates the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) and increases the urinary excretion of inflammatory cytokines/chemokines in patients with uncomplicated type 1 diabetes mellitus. Our objective was to determine whether blockade of the RAAS would blunt the effect of acute hyperglycaemia on urinary cytokine/chemokine excretion, thereby giving insights into potentially protective effects of these agents prior to the onset of clinical nephropathy. Blood pressure, renal haemodynamic function (inulin and para-aminohippurate clearances) and urinary cytokines/chemokines were measured after 6 h of clamped euglycaemia (4-6 mmol/l) and hyperglycaemia (9-11 mmol/l) on two consecutive days in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (n = 27) without overt nephropathy. Measurements were repeated after treatment with aliskiren (300 mg daily) for 30 days. Before aliskiren, clamped hyperglycaemia increased filtration fraction (from 0.188 ± 0.007 to 0.206 ± 0.007, p = 0.003) and urinary fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF2), IFN-α2 and macrophage-derived chemokine (MDC) (p < 0.005). After aliskiren, the filtration fraction response to hyperglycaemia was abolished, resulting in a lower filtration fraction after aliskiren under clamped hyperglycaemic conditions (p = 0.004), and none of the biomarkers increased in response to hyperglycaemia. Aliskiren therapy also reduced levels of urinary eotaxin, FGF2, IFN-α2, IL-2 and MDC during clamped hyperglycaemia (p < 0.005). The increased urinary excretion of inflammatory cytokines/chemokines in response to acute hyperglycaemia is blunted by RAAS blockade in humans with uncomplicated type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Saccharomyces boulardii inhibits lipopolysaccharide-induced activation of human dendritic cells and T cell proliferation

PubMed Central

Thomas, S; Przesdzing, I; Metzke, D; Schmitz, J; Radbruch, A; Baumgart, D C

2009-01-01

Saccharomyces boulardii (Sb) is a probiotic yeast preparation that has demonstrated efficacy in inflammatory and infectious disorders of the gastrointestinal tract in controlled clinical trials. Although patients clearly benefit from treatment with Sb, little is known on how Sb unfolds its anti-inflammatory properties in humans. Dendritic cells (DC) balance tolerance and immunity and are involved critically in the control of T cell activation. Thus, they are believed to have a pivotal role in the initiation and perpetuation of chronic inflammatory disorders, not only in the gut. We therefore decided to investigate if Sb modulates DC function. Culture of primary (native, non-monocyte-derived) human myeloid CD1c+CD11c+CD123– DC (mDC) in the presence of Sb culture supernatant (active component molecular weight < 3 kDa, as evaluated by membrane partition chromatography) reduced significantly expression of the co-stimulatory molecules CD40 and CD80 (P < 0·01) and the DC mobilization marker CC-chemokine receptor CCR7 (CD197) (P < 0·001) induced by the prototypical microbial antigen lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Moreover, secretion of key proinflammatory cytokines such as tumour necrosis factor-α and interleukin (IL)-6 were notably reduced, while the secretion of anti-inflammatory IL-10 increased. Finally, Sb supernatant inhibited the proliferation of naive T cells in a mixed lymphocyte reaction with mDC. In summary, our data suggest that Sb may exhibit part of its anti-inflammatory potential through modulation of DC phenotype, function and migration by inhibition of their immune response to bacterial microbial surrogate antigens such as LPS. PMID:19161443

On the Energy Efficiency of On-Off Keying Transmitters with Two Distinct Types of Batteries.

PubMed

Shen, Tingting; Wang, Tao; Sun, Yanzan; Wu, Yating; Jin, Yanliang

2018-04-23

As nodes in wireless sensor networks are usually powered by nonrenewable batteries, energy efficient design becomes critical. This paper considers a battery-powered transmitter using on-off keying (OOK) modulation and studies its energy efficiency in terms of the battery’s energy consumption for per bit transmission (BECPB). In particular, the transmitter may use one of two distinct types of batteries with battery utilization factor (BUF) depending on discharge current. The first has an instantaneous discharge current (IDC)-based BUF, while the second has a mean discharge current (MDC)-based BUF. For each type of battery, a closed-form BECPB expression is derived under a Rayleigh channel when a prescribed symbol error rate (SER) is guaranteed. Then theoretical analysis is made to study the impact of battery characteristic parameter γ , communication distance d and bandwidth B on the BECPB. Finally, the analysis is corroborated by numerical experimental results, which reveal that: the BECPB for each type of battery increases with γ and d ; the BECPB for the two batteries first decreases and then increases with B , and there exists the optimal bandwidth corresponding to the minimum BECPB; the battery with IDC-based BUF corresponds to a larger BECPB. When γ and d are large, the BECPB for each type of battery is significantly higher than that for the ideal battery whose BUF is aways 1. For instance, when γ = 0.015 , d = 90 m and B = 10 kHz, the BECPB for IDC-based and MDC-based battery is nearly 60% amd 25% higher than that of the ideal battery, respectively.

On the Energy Efficiency of On-Off Keying Transmitters with Two Distinct Types of Batteries

PubMed Central

Shen, Tingting; Wang, Tao; Sun, Yanzan; Wu, Yating; Jin, Yanliang

2018-01-01

As nodes in wireless sensor networks are usually powered by nonrenewable batteries, energy efficient design becomes critical. This paper considers a battery-powered transmitter using on-off keying (OOK) modulation and studies its energy efficiency in terms of the battery’s energy consumption for per bit transmission (BECPB). In particular, the transmitter may use one of two distinct types of batteries with battery utilization factor (BUF) depending on discharge current. The first has an instantaneous discharge current (IDC)-based BUF, while the second has a mean discharge current (MDC)-based BUF. For each type of battery, a closed-form BECPB expression is derived under a Rayleigh channel when a prescribed symbol error rate (SER) is guaranteed. Then theoretical analysis is made to study the impact of battery characteristic parameter γ, communication distance d and bandwidth B on the BECPB. Finally, the analysis is corroborated by numerical experimental results, which reveal that: the BECPB for each type of battery increases with γ and d; the BECPB for the two batteries first decreases and then increases with B, and there exists the optimal bandwidth corresponding to the minimum BECPB; the battery with IDC-based BUF corresponds to a larger BECPB. When γ and d are large, the BECPB for each type of battery is significantly higher than that for the ideal battery whose BUF is aways 1. For instance, when γ=0.015, d=90 m and B=10 kHz, the BECPB for IDC-based and MDC-based battery is nearly 60% amd 25% higher than that of the ideal battery, respectively. PMID:29690609

TECHNICAL BASIS DOCUMENT OF MARSSIM FIELD CALIBRATION FOR QUANTIFICATION OF CS-137 VOLUMETRICALLY CONTAMINTED SOILS IN THE BC CONTROLLED AREA USING A 4 BY 4 BY 16 INCH SODIUM IODIDE DETECTOR

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

PAPPIN JL

The purpose of this paper is to provide the Technical Basis and Documentation for Field Calibrations of radiation measurement equipment for use in the MARSSIM Seeping Surveys of the BC Controlled Area (BCCA). The Be Controlled Area is bounded on tt1e north by (but does not include) the BCCribs & Trenches and is bounded on the south by Army Loop Road. Parts of the BC Controlled Area are posted as a Contamination Area and the remainder is posted as a Soil Contamination Area. The area is approximately 13 square miles and divided into three zones (Zone A , Zone B.more » and Zone C). A map from reference 1 which shows the 3 zones is attached. The MARSSIM Scoping Surveys are intended 10 better identify the boundaries of the three zones based on the volumetric (pCi/g) contamination levels in the soil. The MARSSIM Field Calibration. reference 2. of radiation survey instrumentation will determine the Minimum Detectable Concentration (MDC) and an algorithm for converting counts to pCi/g. The instrumentation and corresponding results are not intended for occupational radiation protection decisions or for the release of property per DOE Order 5400.5.« less

Applications of XRF, NAA and low-kV radiographic techniques in the study of body composition and diseased tissue

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bradley, D. A.; Ng, K. H.; Green, S.; Mountford, P. J.; Shukri, A.; Evans, J.

1996-05-01

Members of this group have responded to a number of challenging health issues by attempting to devise sensitive XRF, NAA and low-kV radiographic measurement systems foboth in vivo and in vitro applications. These studies are generally either of toxicological importance, examine potential for diagnosing the presence of disease, or offer effective means for monitoring potentially harmful side-effects of therapy. Particular examples include the in vivo XRF investigation of human skeletal uptake of Pb in working and living environments, in vivo XRF monitoring of elevated levels of Fe in skin (indicating the presence of an undesirable side-effect of the treatment of thalassaemia), in vivo NAA monitoring of elevated levels of Al in bone (indicating an undesirable side-effect of the treatment of chronic renal failure) and in vitro characterization, by means of low-kV imaging, of a range of calcification parameters in healthy and diseased breast tissue. The latter investigation has been conducted in association with an in vitro NAA study of concentrations of trace elements in the same types of tissue. Figures of merit for the various measurement systems have been obtained in terms of minimum detectable levels and concentrations (MDL's and MDC's) and where applicable, image related parameters.

Overexpression of RBM5 induces autophagy in human lung adenocarcinoma cells.

PubMed

Su, Zhenzhong; Wang, Ke; Li, Ranwei; Yin, Jinzhi; Hao, Yuqiu; Lv, Xuejiao; Li, Junyao; Zhao, Lijing; Du, Yanwei; Li, Ping; Zhang, Jie

2016-02-29

Dysfunctions in autophagy and apoptosis are closely interacted and play an important role in cancer development. RNA binding motif 5 (RBM5) is a tumor suppressor gene, which inhibits tumor cells' growth and enhances chemosensitivity through inducing apoptosis in our previous studies. In this study, we investigated the relationship between RBM5 overexpression and autophagy in human lung adenocarcinoma cells. Human lung adenocarcinoma cancer (A549) cells were cultured in vitro and were transiently transfected with a RBM5 expressing plasmid (GV287-RBM5) or plasmid with scrambled control sequence. RBM5 expression was determined by semi-quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blot. Intracellular LC-3 I/II, Beclin-1, lysosome associated membrane protein-1 (LAMP1), Bcl-2, and NF-κB/p65 protein levels were detected by Western blot. Chemical staining with monodansylcadaverine (MDC) and acridine orange (AO) was applied to detect acidic vesicular organelles (AVOs). The ultrastructure changes were observed under transmission electron microscope (TEM). Then, transplanted tumor models of A549 cells on BALB/c nude mice were established and treated with the recombinant plasmids carried by attenuated Salmonella to induce RBM5 overexpression in tumor tissues. RBM5, LC-3, LAMP1, and Beclin1 expression was determined by immunohistochemistry staining in plasmids-treated A549 xenografts. Our study demonstrated that overexpression of RBM5 caused an increase in the autophagy-related proteins including LC3-I, LC3-II, LC3-II/LC3-I ratio, Beclin1, and LAMP1 in A549 cells. A large number of autophagosomes with double-membrane structure and AVOs were detected in the cytoplasm of A549 cells transfected with GV287-RBM5 at 24 h. We observed that the protein level of NF-κB/P65 was increased and the protein level of Bcl-2 decreased by RBM5 overexpression. Furthermore, treatment with an autophagy inhibitor, 3-MA, enhanced RBM5-induced cell death and chemosensitivity in A549 cells. Furthermore, we successfully established the lung adenocarcinoma animal model using A549 cells. Overexpression of RBM5 enhanced the LC-3, LAMP1, and Beclin1 expression in the A549 xenografts. Our findings showed for the first time that RBM5 overexpression induced autophagy in human lung adenocarcinoma cells, which might be driven by upregulation of Beclin1, NF-κB/P65, and downregulation of Bcl-2. RBM5-enhanced autophagy acts in a cytoprotective way and inhibition of autophagy may improve the anti-tumor efficacy of RBM5 in lung cancer.

Waveguide Multimode Directional Coupler for Harvesting Harmonic Power from the Output of Traveling-Wave Tube Amplifiers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Simons, Rainee N.; Wintucky, Edwin G.

2017-01-01

This paper presents the design, fabrication, and test results for a novel waveguide multimode directional coupler (MDC). The coupler fabricated from dissimilar frequency band waveguides, is capable of isolating power at the 2nd harmonic frequency from the fundamental power at the output port of traveling-wave tube amplifiers. Test results from proof-of-concept demonstrations are presented for Ku/Ka-band and Ka/E-band MDCs, which demonstrate sufficient power in the 2nd harmonic for a space borne beacon source for mm-wave atmospheric propagation studies.

Space Object Query Tool

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Phillips, Veronica J.

2017-01-01

STI is for a fact sheet on the Space Object Query Tool being created by the MDC. When planning launches, NASA must first factor in the tens of thousands of objects already in orbit around the Earth. The number of human-made objects, including nonfunctional spacecraft, abandoned launch vehicle stages, mission-related debris and fragmentation debris orbiting Earth has grown steadily since Sputnik 1 was launched in 1957. Currently, the U.S. Department of Defenses Joint Space Operations Center, or JSpOC, tracks over 15,000 distinct objects and provides data for more than 40,000 objects via its Space-Track program, found at space-track.org.

A method to score radiographic change in psoriatic arthritis.

PubMed

Wassenberg, S; Fischer-Kahle, V; Herborn, G; Rau, R

2001-06-01

Radiographic features of psoriatic arthritis (PsA) are very characteristic and differ from those observed in rheumatoid arthritis, especially in two aspects: 1) the distribution of affected joints (i.e. DIP joints), 2) the presence of destructive changes and bone proliferation at the same time. A scoring method for PsA, therefore, has to account for these characteristics of PsA. To develop, describe and validate a method for scoring radiographic changes in patients with PsA. Forty joints of the hands and feet are scored for destruction and proliferation. In the destruction score (DS) grading on a 0-5 scale is based on the amount of joint surface destruction: 0 = normal, 1 = one or more erosions with an interruption of the cortical plate of > 1 mm with destruction of the total joint surface up to 10%, 2 = 11-25%, 3 = 26-50%, 4 = 51-75%, 5 = > 75% joint surface destruction. The proliferation score (PS) sums up any kind of bony proliferation typical for PsA; graded 0-4: 0 = normal, 1 = bony proliferation of 1-2 mm or bone growth < 25% of the original size (diameter), 2 = bony proliferation 2-3 mm or bone growth 25-50%, 3 = bony proliferation > 3 mm or bone growth > 50%, 4 = bony ankylosis. The DS (0-200) and the PS (0-160) can be summed up to the total score (0-360). VALIDATION OF THE METHOD: To validate the method x-rays of 20 patients with active PsA taken 3 years apart were read twice in pairs, knowing the chronological order but not knowing demographic, clinical or laboratory data of the patients. The data were analyzed with a hierarchical analysis of variance model. There was good agreement between the first and the second reading of the same rater and between the two raters regarding the destruction score. The agreement regarding the proliferation score was lower but still acceptable. The reliability of the method to describe change over time--relation of progression (intra-patient variance) to the measurement error (inter-rater variance)--was 3.9 for the DS, 2.8 for the PS and 4.1 for the total score. The minimal detectable change when the readings of two raters were compared (inter-rater MDC) was 5.8, 5.0 and 4.6%, respectively of the maximum possible score for the destruction, the proliferation and the total score. These data compare very well with the results of standard scoring methods in rheumatoid arthritis. We propose a method for scoring radiographic change in psoriatic arthritis which reliably quantifies the progression of the disease seen on radiographs.

Development of a Tablet-based symbol digit modalities test for reliably assessing information processing speed in patients with stroke.

PubMed

Tung, Li-Chen; Yu, Wan-Hui; Lin, Gong-Hong; Yu, Tzu-Ying; Wu, Chien-Te; Tsai, Chia-Yin; Chou, Willy; Chen, Mei-Hsiang; Hsieh, Ching-Lin

2016-09-01

To develop a Tablet-based Symbol Digit Modalities Test (T-SDMT) and to examine the test-retest reliability and concurrent validity of the T-SDMT in patients with stroke. The study had two phases. In the first phase, six experts, nine college students and five outpatients participated in the development and testing of the T-SDMT. In the second phase, 52 outpatients were evaluated twice (2 weeks apart) with the T-SDMT and SDMT to examine the test-retest reliability and concurrent validity of the T-SDMT. The T-SDMT was developed via expert input and college student/patient feedback. Regarding test-retest reliability, the practise effects of the T-SDMT and SDMT were both trivial (d=0.12) but significant (p≦0.015). The improvement in the T-SDMT (4.7%) was smaller than that in the SDMT (5.6%). The minimal detectable changes (MDC%) of the T-SDMT and SDMT were 6.7 (22.8%) and 10.3 (32.8%), respectively. The T-SDMT and SDMT were highly correlated with each other at the two time points (Pearson's r=0.90-0.91). The T-SDMT demonstrated good concurrent validity with the SDMT. Because the T-SDMT had a smaller practise effect and less random measurement error (superior test-retest reliability), it is recommended over the SDMT for assessing information processing speed in patients with stroke. Implications for Rehabilitation The Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), a common measure of information processing speed, showed a substantial practise effect and considerable random measurement error in patients with stroke. The Tablet-based SDMT (T-SDMT) has been developed to reduce the practise effect and random measurement error of the SDMT in patients with stroke. The T-SDMT had smaller practise effect and random measurement error than the SDMT, which can provide more reliable assessments of information processing speed.

Reliability of System Identification Techniques to Assess Standing Balance in Healthy Elderly

PubMed Central

Maier, Andrea B.; Aarts, Ronald G. K. M.; van Gerven, Joop M. A.; Arendzen, J. Hans; Schouten, Alfred C.; Meskers, Carel G. M.; van der Kooij, Herman

2016-01-01

Objectives System identification techniques have the potential to assess the contribution of the underlying systems involved in standing balance by applying well-known disturbances. We investigated the reliability of standing balance parameters obtained with multivariate closed loop system identification techniques. Methods In twelve healthy elderly balance tests were performed twice a day during three days. Body sway was measured during two minutes of standing with eyes closed and the Balance test Room (BalRoom) was used to apply four disturbances simultaneously: two sensory disturbances, to the proprioceptive and the visual system, and two mechanical disturbances applied at the leg and trunk segment. Using system identification techniques, sensitivity functions of the sensory disturbances and the neuromuscular controller were estimated. Based on the generalizability theory (G theory), systematic errors and sources of variability were assessed using linear mixed models and reliability was assessed by computing indexes of dependability (ID), standard error of measurement (SEM) and minimal detectable change (MDC). Results A systematic error was found between the first and second trial in the sensitivity functions. No systematic error was found in the neuromuscular controller and body sway. The reliability of 15 of 25 parameters and body sway were moderate to excellent when the results of two trials on three days were averaged. To reach an excellent reliability on one day in 7 out of 25 parameters, it was predicted that at least seven trials must be averaged. Conclusion This study shows that system identification techniques are a promising method to assess the underlying systems involved in standing balance in elderly. However, most of the parameters do not appear to be reliable unless a large number of trials are collected across multiple days. To reach an excellent reliability in one third of the parameters, a training session for participants is needed and at least seven trials of two minutes must be performed on one day. PMID:26953694

Reliability and validity of an iPhone® application for the measurement of lumbar spine flexion and extension range of motion

PubMed Central

Pourahmadi, Mohammad Reza; Jannati, Elham; Mohseni-Bandpei, Mohammad Ali; Ebrahimi Takamjani, Ismail; Rajabzadeh, Fatemeh

2016-01-01

Background Measurement of lumbar spine range of motion (ROM) is often considered to be an essential component of lumbar spine physiotherapy and orthopedic assessment. The measurement can be carried out through various instruments such as inclinometers, goniometers, and etc. Recent smartphones have been equipped with accelerometers and magnetometers, which, through specific software applications (apps) can be used for inclinometric functions. Purpose The main purpose was to investigate the reliability and validity of an iPhone® app (TiltMeter© -advanced level and inclinometer) for measuring standing lumbar spine flexion–extension ROM in asymptomatic subjects. Design A cross-sectional study was carried out. Setting This study was conducted in a physiotherapy clinic located at School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Iran University of Medical Science and Health Services, Tehran, Iran. Subjects A convenience sample of 30 asymptomatic adults (15 males; 15 females; age range = 18–55 years) was recruited between August 2015 and December 2015. Methods Following a 2–minute warm-up, the subjects were asked to stand in a relaxed position and their skin was marked at the T12–L1 and S1–S2 spinal levels. From this position, they were asked to perform maximum lumbar flexion followed by maximum lumbar extension with their knees straight. Two blinded raters each used an inclinometer and the iPhone ® app to measure lumbar spine flexion–extension ROM. A third rater read the measured angles. To calculate total lumbar spine flexion–extension ROM, the measurement from S1–S2 was subtracted from T12–L1. The second (2 hours later) and third (48 hours later) sessions were carried out in the same manner as the first session. All of the measurements were conducted 3 times and the mean value of 3 repetitions for each measurement was used for analysis. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) models (3, k) and (2, k) were used to determine the intra-rater and inter-rater reliability, respectively. The Pearson correlation coefficients were used to establish concurrent validity of the iPhone® app. Furthermore, minimum detectable change at the 95% confidence level (MDC95) was computed as 1.96 × standard error of measurement × \\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document} }{}$\\sqrt{2}$\\end{document}2. Results Good to excellent intra-rater and inter-rater reliability were demonstrated for both the gravity-based inclinometer with ICC values of ≥0.84 and ≥0.77 and the iPhone® app with ICC values of ≥0.85 and ≥0.85, respectively. The MDC95 ranged from 5.82°to 8.18°for the intra-rater analysis and from 7.38°to 8.66° for the inter-rater analysis. The concurrent validity for flexion and extension between the 2 instruments was 0.85 and 0.91, respectively. Conclusions The iPhone®app possesses good to excellent intra-rater and inter-rater reliability and concurrent validity. It seems that the iPhone® app can be used for the measurement of lumbar spine flexion–extension ROM. Level of evidence IIb. PMID:27635328

[Effect of hydrogen-rich saline on cardiomyocyte autophagy during myocardial ischemia-reperfusion in aged rats].

PubMed

Pan, Zhenhua; Zhao, Yue; Yu, Hongying; Liu, Dayi; Xu, Hua

2015-07-07

To investigate the effects of hydrogen-rich saline on cardiomyocyte autophagy during myocardial ischemia-reperfusion in aged rats. One hundred and fifty healthy male Sprague Dawley rats, 18 months old, weighing 400-540 g were selected. The rats were then randomly divided into 5 groups (n = 30): Normal control group (group I); Sham operation group (group II); Myocardial ischemia-reperfusion group (group III); Hydrogen-rich saline group (group IV); Normal saline group (group V). No any processing in group I. In group II, the anterior descending branch was only exposed but not ligated. Myocardial I/R was induced by occlusion of anterior descending branch of left coronary artery for 30 min followed by 12 h and 24 h of reperfusion with Bimbaum. Hydrogen-rich saline 1 ml/100 g were injected intraperitoneally 5 min before reperfusion in group IV. Normal saline 1 ml/100 g were injected intraperitoneally 5 min before reperfusion in group V. The rats were sacrificed at 12 h and 24 h of reperfusion and hearts were removed. The pathological changes of myocardial tissue were detected by HE staining. The rate of cardiomyocyte autophagy were detected by the MDC fluorescent dye and flow cytometry instrument. The expression of AMPK, mTOR, Beclin1, LC3 in myocardial tissue was investigated by Western blot. Compared with groups I and II, the rate of cardiomyocyte autophagy, the expression of AMPK, mTOR, Beclin1, LC3 in myocardial tissue were significantly increased at 12 h, 24 h in groups III, IV and V (F = 23.45, 26.65, 25.58; F = 23.16, 25.15, 27.85; F = 21.04, 24.83, 27.43; F = 22.15, 25.79, 29.05; F = 22.58, 27.25, 28.46), P < 0.05. Compared with group III and V, the rate of cardiomyocyte autophagy, the expression of AMPK, mTOR, Beclin1, LC3 were significantly decreased at 12 h, 24 h in group IV (F = 21.29, 24.71; F = 22.37, 25.84; F = 20.48, 22.38; F = 21.76, 28.43; F = 22.54, 27.21), P < 0.05. Hydrogen-rich saline can attenuate myocardial reperfusion injury through inhibiting cardiomyocyte autophagy. The mechanism may be associated with decreasing the expression of AMPK, mTOR, Beclin1, LC3 in myocardial tissue.

Effects of Different Models of Dialysis Care on Patient-Important Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

PubMed

Ramar, Priya; Ahmed, Ahmed T; Wang, Zhen; Chawla, Sagar S; Suarez, Maria Lourdes Gonzalez; Hickson, LaTonya J; Farrell, Ann; Williams, Amy W; Shah, Nilay D; Murad, M Hassan; Thorsteinsdottir, Bjorg

2017-12-01

Ongoing payment reform in dialysis necessitates better patient outcomes and lower costs. Suggested improvements to processes of care for maintenance dialysis patients are abundant; however, their impact on patient-important outcomes is unclear. This systematic review included comparative randomized controlled trials or observational studies with no restriction on language, published from 2000 to 2014, involving at least 5 adult dialysis patients who received a minimum of 6 months of follow-up. The effect size was pooled and stratified by intervention strategy (multidisciplinary care [MDC], home dialysis, alternate dialysis settings, and electronic health record implementation). Heterogeneity (I 2 ) was used to assess the variability in study effects related to study differences rather than chance. Of the 1988 articles screened, 25 international studies with 74,833 maintenance dialysis patients were included. Interventions with MDC or home dialysis were associated with a lower mortality (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.72, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.61, 0.84, I 2  = 41.6%; HR = 0.57, 95% CI 0.41, 0.81, I 2  = 89.0%; respectively) and hospitalizations (incidence rate ratio [IRR] = 0.68, 95% CI 0.51, 0.91, I 2  = NA; IRR = 0.88, 95% CI 0.64, 1.20, I 2  = 79.6%; respectively). Alternate dialysis settings also were associated with a reduction in hospitalizations (IRR = 0.41, 95% CI 0.25, 0.69, I 2  = 0.0%). This systematic review underscores the importance of multidisciplinary care, and also the value of telemedicine as a means to increase access to providers and enhance outcomes for those dialyzing at home or in alternate settings, including those with limited access to nephrology expertise because of travel distance.

Cocaine-like discriminative stimulus effects of amphetamine, cathinone, methamphetamine, and their 3,4-methylenedioxy analogs in male rhesus monkeys.

PubMed

Smith, Douglas A; Blough, Bruce E; Banks, Matthew L

2017-01-01

Synthetic cathinones have emerged as the newest class of abused monoamine transporter substrates. Structurally, these compounds are all beta-ketone amphetamine (cathinone) analogs. Whether synthetic cathinone analogs produce differential behavioral effects from their amphetamine analog counterparts has not been systematically examined. Preclinical drug discrimination procedures have been useful for determining the structure activity relationships (SARs) of abused drugs; however, direct comparisons between amphetamine and cathinone analogs are lacking and, in particular, in non-human primate models. The study aim was to determine the potency and time course of (±)-amphetamine, (±)-cathinone, and (±)-methamphetamine and their 3,4-methylenedioxy analogs (±)-MDA, (±)-MDC, and (±)-MDMA, respectively, to produce cocaine-like discriminative stimulus effects. If cathinone analogs have similar behavioral pharmacological properties to their amphetamine counterparts, then we would predict similar potencies and efficacies to produce cocaine-like discriminative stimulus effects. Male rhesus monkeys (n = 4) were trained to discriminate intramuscular cocaine (0.32 mg/kg) from saline in a two-key food-reinforced discrimination procedure. Racemic amphetamine, cathinone, and methamphetamine produced dose-dependent and full substitution, ≥90 % cocaine-appropriate responding, in all monkeys. Addition of 3,4-methylenedioxy moiety attenuated both the potency and efficacy of amphetamine (MDA), cathinone (MDC), and methamphetamine (MDMA) to produce full cocaine-like effects. Moreover, the cocaine-like effects of amphetamine and cathinone were attenuated to a greater extent than those of methamphetamine or previously published methcathinone (Smith et al. 2016). The presence of an N-methyl group blunted both the potency and the efficacy shift of the 3,4-methylenedioxy addition for both amphetamine and cathinone analogs.

An investigation into the performance of real-time GPS+GLONASS Precise Point Positioning (PPP) in New Zealand

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harima, Ken; Choy, Suelynn; Rizos, Chris; Kogure, Satoshi

2017-09-01

This paper presents an investigation into the performance of real-time Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) Precise Point Positioning (PPP) in New Zealand. The motivation of the research is to evaluate the feasibility of using PPP technique and a satellite based augmentation system such as the Japanese Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS) to deliver a real-time precise positioning solution in support of a nation-wide high accuracy GNSS positioning coverage in New Zealand. Two IGS real-time correction streams are evaluated alongside with the PPP correction messages transmitted by the QZSS satellite known as MDC1. MDC1 corrections stream is generated by Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) using the Multi-GNSS Advanced Demonstration tool for Orbit and Clock Analysis (MADOCA) software and are currently transmitted in test mode by the QZSS satellite. The IGS real-time streams are the CLK9B real-time corrections stream generated by the French Centre National D'études Spatiales (CNES) using the PPP-Wizard software, and the CLK81 real-time corrections stream produced by GMV using their MagicGNSS software. GNSS data is collected from six New Zealand CORS stations operated by Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) over a one-week period in 2015. GPS and GLONASS measurements are processed in a real-time PPP mode using the satellite orbit and clock corrections from the real-time streams. The results show that positioning accuracies of 6 cm in horizontal component and 15 cm in vertical component can be achieved in real-time PPP. The real-time GPS+GLONASS PPP solution required 30 minutes to converge to within 10 cm horizontal positioning accuracy.

Safety in numbers 4: The relationship between exposure to authentic and didactic environments and nursing students' learning of medication dosage calculation problem solving knowledge and skills.

PubMed

Weeks, Keith W; Clochesy, John M; Hutton, B Meriel; Moseley, Laurie

2013-03-01

Advancing the art and science of education practice requires a robust evaluation of the relationship between students' exposure to learning and assessment environments and the development of their cognitive competence (knowing that and why) and functional competence (know-how and skills). Healthcare education translation research requires specific education technology assessments and evaluations that consist of quantitative analyses of empirical data and qualitative evaluations of the lived student experience of the education journey and schemata construction (Weeks et al., 2013a). This paper focuses on the outcomes of UK PhD and USA post-doctorate experimental research. We evaluated the relationship between exposure to traditional didactic methods of education, prototypes of an authentic medication dosage calculation problem-solving (MDC-PS) environment and nursing students' construction of conceptual and calculation competence in medication dosage calculation problem-solving skills. Empirical outcomes from both UK and USA programmes of research identified highly significant differences in the construction of conceptual and calculation competence in MDC-PS following exposure to the authentic learning environment to that following exposure to traditional didactic transmission methods of education (p < 0.001). This research highlighted that for many students exposure to authentic learning environments is an essential first step in the development of conceptual and calculation competence and relevant schemata construction (internal representations of the relationship between the features of authentic dosage problems and calculation functions); and how authentic environments more ably support all cognitive (learning) styles in mathematics than traditional didactic methods of education. Functional competence evaluations are addressed in Macdonald et al. (2013) and Weeks et al. (2013e). Copyright © 2012. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Mechanisms of canalicular transporter endocytosis in the cholestatic rat liver.

PubMed

Miszczuk, Gisel S; Barosso, Ismael R; Larocca, María Cecilia; Marrone, Julieta; Marinelli, Raúl A; Boaglio, Andrea C; Sánchez Pozzi, Enrique J; Roma, Marcelo G; Crocenzi, Fernando A

2018-04-01

Impaired canalicular secretion due to increased endocytosis and intracellular retention of canalicular transporters such as BSEP and MRP2 is a main, common pathomechanism of cholestasis. Nevertheless, the mechanisms governing this process are unknown. We characterized this process in estradiol 17 β-d-glucuronide (E17G)-induced cholestasis, an experimental model which partially mimics pregnancy-induced cholestasis. Inhibitors of clathrin-mediated endocytosis (CME) such as monodansylcadaverine (MDC) or K + depletion, but not the caveolin-mediated endocytosis inhibitors filipin and genistein, prevented E17G-induced endocytosis of BSEP and MRP2, and the associated impairment of activity of these transporters in isolated rat hepatocyte couplets (IRHC). Immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy studies showed that, in E17G-treated IRHC, there was a significant increase in the colocalization of MRP2 with clathrin, AP2, and Rab5, three essential members of the CME machinery. Knockdown of AP2 by siRNA in sandwich-cultured rat hepatocytes completely prevented E17G-induced endocytosis of BSEP and MRP2. MDC significantly prevented this endocytosis, and the impairment of bile flow and biliary secretion of BSEP and MRP2 substrates, in isolated and perfused livers. BSEP and MRP2, which were mostly present in raft (caveolin-enriched) microdomains in control rats, were largely found in non-raft (clathrin-enriched) microdomains in livers from E17G-treated animals, from where they can be readily recruited for CME. In conclusion, our findings show that CME is the mechanism responsible for the internalization of the canalicular transporters BSEP and MRP2 in E17G-induced cholestasis. The shift of these transporters from raft to non-raft microdomains could be a prerequisite for the transporters to be endocytosed under cholestatic conditions. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Genome-Wide Methylation Analyses in Glioblastoma Multiforme

PubMed Central

Lai, Rose K.; Chen, Yanwen; Guan, Xiaowei; Nousome, Darryl; Sharma, Charu; Canoll, Peter; Bruce, Jeffrey; Sloan, Andrew E.; Cortes, Etty; Vonsattel, Jean-Paul; Su, Tao; Delgado-Cruzata, Lissette; Gurvich, Irina; Santella, Regina M.; Ostrom, Quinn; Lee, Annette; Gregersen, Peter; Barnholtz-Sloan, Jill

2014-01-01

Few studies had investigated genome-wide methylation in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Our goals were to study differential methylation across the genome in gene promoters using an array-based method, as well as repetitive elements using surrogate global methylation markers. The discovery sample set for this study consisted of 54 GBM from Columbia University and Case Western Reserve University, and 24 brain controls from the New York Brain Bank. We assembled a validation dataset using methylation data of 162 TCGA GBM and 140 brain controls from dbGAP. HumanMethylation27 Analysis Bead-Chips (Illumina) were used to interrogate 26,486 informative CpG sites in both the discovery and validation datasets. Global methylation levels were assessed by analysis of L1 retrotransposon (LINE1), 5 methyl-deoxycytidine (5m-dC) and 5 hydroxylmethyl-deoxycytidine (5hm-dC) in the discovery dataset. We validated a total of 1548 CpG sites (1307 genes) that were differentially methylated in GBM compared to controls. There were more than twice as many hypomethylated genes as hypermethylated ones. Both the discovery and validation datasets found 5 tumor methylation classes. Pathway analyses showed that the top ten pathways in hypomethylated genes were all related to functions of innate and acquired immunities. Among hypermethylated pathways, transcriptional regulatory network in embryonic stem cells was the most significant. In the study of global methylation markers, 5m-dC level was the best discriminant among methylation classes, whereas in survival analyses, high level of LINE1 methylation was an independent, favorable prognostic factor in the discovery dataset. Based on a pathway approach, hypermethylation in genes that control stem cell differentiation were significant, poor prognostic factors of overall survival in both the discovery and validation datasets. Approaches that targeted these methylated genes may be a future therapeutic goal. PMID:24586730

Municipal sludge composting facility emissions -- comparison of wet scrubber and biofiltration control performance

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

Holzman, M.I.; Gammie, L.A.; Gilbert, P.E.

1997-12-31

The Metropolitan District (MDC) Water Pollution Control Plant located in Hartford, Connecticut operates a state-of-the-art composting facility to process municipal sewage sludge. An air emissions test program was performed to determine emission rates of criteria and non-criteria pollutants and to evaluate the performance of two types of emissions/odor control systems (biofiltration and wet scrubbing). The purpose of this report is to further the limited available emissions and control performance data on a municipal sewage sludge composting facility operation. The MDC`s sludge composting facility consists of a Biocell train and a Cure Cell train, each of which can currently receive approximatelymore » 20 wet tons per hour of sludge at 60% of full capacity. The minimum retention time in each train is 10.5 days. Air emissions from the Biocell train are treated by both a biofiltration system and a three-stage wet scrubber system. The biofilter and wet scrubber system operate in parallel, so as to allow direct comparison of performance. Emissions from the Cure Cell train are treated by a single biofiltration system. The wet scrubber system consists of a first stage reducing absorber (ammonia solution), followed by a second stage oxidation absorber (sodium hypochlorite and sulfuric acid), and a final residual scrubber (sodium hydroxide solution). The two biofiltration systems are identically sized at 10,000 square feet surface area and three feet depth. The emissions testing program was designed to obtain simultaneous inlet and outlet data across each control device. The measured pollutants included organo-sulfides, alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, pinenes, terpenes, total reduced sulfur compounds, chlorinated hydrocarbons, sulfuric acid, sodium hydroxide, ammonia, carbon monoxide and volatile organic compounds.« less

Virtual reality in the operating room of the future.

PubMed

Müller, W; Grosskopf, S; Hildebrand, A; Malkewitz, R; Ziegler, R

1997-01-01

In cooperation with the Max-Delbrück-Centrum/Robert-Rössle-Klinik (MDC/RRK) in Berlin, the Fraunhofer Institute for Computer Graphics is currently designing and developing a scenario for the operating room of the future. The goal of this project is to integrate new analysis, visualization and interaction tools in order to optimize and refine tumor diagnostics and therapy in combination with laser technology and remote stereoscopic video transfer. Hence, a human 3-D reference model is reconstructed using CT, MR, and anatomical cryosection images from the National Library of Medicine's Visible Human Project. Applying segmentation algorithms and surface-polygonization methods a 3-D representation is obtained. In addition, a "fly-through" the virtual patient is realized using 3-D input devices (data glove, tracking system, 6-DOF mouse). In this way, the surgeon can experience really new perspectives of the human anatomy. Moreover, using a virtual cutting plane any cut of the CT volume can be interactively placed and visualized in realtime. In conclusion, this project delivers visions for the application of effective visualization and VR systems. Commonly known as Virtual Prototyping and applied by the automotive industry long ago, this project shows, that the use of VR techniques can also prototype an operating room. After evaluating design and functionality of the virtual operating room, MDC plans to build real ORs in the near future. The use of VR techniques provides a more natural interface for the surgeon in the OR (e.g., controlling interactions by voice input). Besides preoperative planning future work will focus on supporting the surgeon in performing surgical interventions. An optimal synthesis of real and synthetic data, and the inclusion of visual, aural, and tactile senses in virtual environments can meet these requirements. This Augmented Reality could represent the environment for the surgeons of tomorrow.

Targeting Protein for Xenopus Kinesin-like Protein 2 (TPX2) Regulates γ-Histone 2AX (γ-H2AX) Levels upon Ionizing Radiation*

PubMed Central

Neumayer, Gernot; Helfricht, Angela; Shim, Su Yeon; Le, Hoa Thi; Lundin, Cecilia; Belzil, Camille; Chansard, Mathieu; Yu, Yaping; Lees-Miller, Susan P.; Gruss, Oliver J.; van Attikum, Haico; Helleday, Thomas; Nguyen, Minh Dang

2012-01-01

The microtubule-associated protein targeting protein for Xenopus kinesin-like protein 2 (TPX2) plays a key role in spindle assembly and is required for mitosis in human cells. In interphase, TPX2 is actively imported into the nucleus to prevent its premature activity in microtubule organization. To date, no function has been assigned to nuclear TPX2. We now report that TPX2 plays a role in the cellular response to DNA double strand breaks induced by ionizing radiation. Loss of TPX2 leads to inordinately strong and transient accumulation of ionizing radiation-dependent Ser-139-phosphorylated Histone 2AX (γ-H2AX) at G0 and G1 phases of the cell cycle. This is accompanied by the formation of increased numbers of high intensity γ-H2AX ionizing radiation-induced foci. Conversely, cells overexpressing TPX2 have reduced levels of γ-H2AX after ionizing radiation. Consistent with a role for TPX2 in the DNA damage response, we found that the protein accumulates at DNA double strand breaks and associates with the mediator of DNA damage checkpoint 1 (MDC1) and the ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM) kinase, both key regulators of γ-H2AX amplification. Pharmacologic inhibition or depletion of ATM or MDC1, but not of DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK), antagonizes the γ-H2AX phenotype caused by TPX2 depletion. Importantly, the regulation of γ-H2AX signals by TPX2 is not associated with apoptosis or the mitotic functions of TPX2. In sum, our study identifies a novel and the first nuclear function for TPX2 in the cellular responses to DNA damage. PMID:23045526

Professional Fee Ratios for US Hospital Discharge Data.

PubMed

Peterson, Cora; Xu, Likang; Florence, Curtis; Grosse, Scott D; Annest, Joseph L

2015-10-01

US hospital discharge datasets typically report facility charges (ie, room and board), excluding professional fees (ie, attending physicians' charges). We aimed to estimate professional fee ratios (PFR) by year and clinical diagnosis for use in cost analyses based on hospital discharge data. The subjects consisted of a retrospective cohort of Truven Health MarketScan 2004-2012 inpatient admissions (n=23,594,605) and treat-and-release emergency department (ED) visits (n=70,771,576). PFR per visit was assessed as total payments divided by facility-only payments. Using ordinary least squares regression models controlling for selected characteristics (ie, patient age, comorbidities, etc.), we calculated adjusted mean PFR for admissions by health insurance type (commercial or Medicaid) per year overall and by Major Diagnostic Category (MDC), Diagnostic Related Group, Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project Clinical Classification Software, and primary International Classification of Diseases, 9th Edition, Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM) diagnosis, and for ED visits per year overall and by MDC and primary ICD-9-CM diagnosis. Adjusted mean PFR for 2012 admissions, including preceding ED visits, was 1.264 (95% CI, 1.264, 1.265) for commercially insured admissions (n=2,614,326) and 1.177 (1.176, 1.177) for Medicaid admissions (n=816,503), indicating professional payments increased total per-admission payments by an average 26.4% and 17.7%, respectively, above facility-only payments. Adjusted mean PFR for 2012 ED visits was 1.286 (1.286, 1.286) for commercially insured visits (n=8,808,734) and 1.440 (1.439, 1.440) for Medicaid visits (n=2,994,696). Supplemental tables report 2004-2012 annual PFR estimates by clinical classifications. Adjustments for professional fees are recommended when hospital facility-only financial data from US hospital discharge datasets are used to estimate health care costs.

Corticotropin-releasing factor receptor-1 modulates biomarkers of DNA oxidation in Alzheimer’s disease mice

PubMed Central

Zhang, Cheng

2017-01-01

Increased production of hydroxyl radical is the main source of oxidative damage in mammalian DNA that accumulates in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Reactive oxygen species (ROS) react with both nuclear DNA (nDNA) and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) to generate 8-hydroxy-2’-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), both of which can be measured in the urine. Knowledge of this pathway has positioned measurement of urine 8-OHdG as a reliable index of DNA oxidation and a potential biomarker target for tracking early cellular dysfunction in AD. Furthermore, epigenetic studies demonstrate decreased global DNA methylation levels (e.g. 5-methyl-2’-deoxycytidine, 5-mdC) in AD tissues. Moreover, stress hormones can activate neuronal oxidative stress which will stimulate the release of additional stress hormones and result in damages to hippocampal neurons in the AD brain. Our previous work suggests that treating AD transgenic mice the type-1 corticotropin-releasing factor receptor (CRFR1) antagonist, R121919, to reduce stress signaling, prevented onset of cognitive impairment, synaptic/dendritic loss and Aβ plaque accumulation. Therefore, to investigate whether levels of DNA oxidation can be impacted by the same therapeutic approach, urine levels of hydrogen peroxide, 8-OHdG, 5-mdC and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were analyzed using an AD Tg mouse model. We found that Tg animals had an 80% increase in hydrogen peroxide levels compared to wild type (Wt) counterparts, an effect that could be dramatically reversed by the chronic administration with R121919. A significant decrease of 8-OHdG levels was observed in Tg mice treated with CRFR1 antagonist. Collectively our data suggest that the beneficial effects of CRFR1 antagonism seen in Tg mice may be mechanistically linked to the modulation of oxidative stress pathways. PMID:28750017

The precision and torque production of common hip adductor squeeze tests used in elite football.

PubMed

Light, N; Thorborg, K

2016-11-01

Decreased hip adductor strength is a known risk factor for groin injury in footballers, with clinicians testing adductor strength in various positions and using different protocols. Understanding how reliable and how much torque different adductor squeeze tests produce will facilitate choosing the most appropriate method for future testing. In this study, the reliability and torque production of three common adductor squeeze tests were investigated. Test-retest reliability and cross-sectional comparison. Twenty elite level footballers (16-33 years) without previous or current groin pain were recruited. Relative and absolute test-retest reliability, and torque production of three adductor squeeze tests (long-lever in abduction, short-lever in adduction and short-lever in abduction/external rotation) were investigated. Each participant performed a series of isometric strength tests measured by hand-held dynamometry in each position, on two test days separated by two weeks. No systematic variation was seen for any of the tests when using the mean of three measures (ICC=0.84-0.97, MDC%=6.6-19.5). The smallest variation was observed when taking the mean of three repetitions in the long-lever position (ICC=0.97, MDC%=6.6). The long-lever test also yielded the highest mean torque values, which were 69% and 11% higher than the short-lever in adduction test and short-lever in abduction/external rotation test respectively (p<0.001). All three tests described in this study are reliable methods of measuring adductor squeeze strength. However, the test performed in the long-lever position seems the most promising as it displays high test-retest precision and the highest adductor torque production. Copyright © 2015 Sports Medicine Australia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Reimbursement of care for severe trauma under SwissDRG.

PubMed

Moos, Rudolf M; Sprengel, Kai; Jensen, Kai Oliver; Jentzsch, Thorsten; Simmen, Hans-Peter; Seifert, Burkhardt; Ciritsis, Bernhard; Neuhaus, Valentin; Volbracht, Jörk; Mehra, Tarun

2016-01-01

Treatment of patients with severe injuries is costly, with best results achieved in specialised care centres. However, diagnosis-related group (DRG)-based prospective payment systems have difficulties in depicting treatment costs for specialised care. We analysed reimbursement of care for severe trauma in the first 3 years after the introduction of the Swiss DRG reimbursement system (2012-2014). The study included all patients with solely basic insurance, hospital admission after 01.01.2011 and discharge in 2011 or 2012, who were admitted to the resuscitation room of the University Hospital of Zurich, aged ≥16 years and with an injury severity score (ISS) ≥16 (n = 364). Clinical, financial and administrative data were extracted from the electronic medical records. All cases were grouped into DRGs according to different SwissDRG versions. We considered results to be significant if p ≤0.002. The mean deficit decreased from 12 065 CHF under SwissDRG 1.0 (2012) to 2 902 CHF under SwissDRG 3.0 (2014). The main reason for the reduction of average deficits was a refinement of the DRG algorithm with a regrouping of 23 cases with an ISS ≥16 from MDC 01 to DRGs within MDC21A. Predictors of an increased total loss per case could be identified: for example, high total number of surgical interventions, surgeries on multiple anatomical regions or operations on the pelvis (p ≤0.002). Psychiatric diagnoses in general were also significant predictors of deficit per case (p<0.001). The reimbursement for care of severely injured patients needs further improvement. Cost neutral treatment was not possible under the first three versions of SwissDRG.

Gene Expression Profiles of Human Dendritic Cells Interacting with Aspergillus fumigatus in a Bilayer Model of the Alveolar Epithelium/Endothelium Interface

PubMed Central

Morton, Charles Oliver; Fliesser, Mirjam; Dittrich, Marcus; Mueller, Tobias; Bauer, Ruth; Kneitz, Susanne; Hope, William; Rogers, Thomas Richard; Einsele, Hermann; Loeffler, Juergen

2014-01-01

The initial stages of the interaction between the host and Aspergillus fumigatus at the alveolar surface of the human lung are critical in the establishment of aspergillosis. Using an in vitro bilayer model of the alveolus, including both the epithelium (human lung adenocarcinoma epithelial cell line, A549) and endothelium (human pulmonary artery epithelial cells, HPAEC) on transwell membranes, it was possible to closely replicate the in vivo conditions. Two distinct sub-groups of dendritic cells (DC), monocyte-derived DC (moDC) and myeloid DC (mDC), were included in the model to examine immune responses to fungal infection at the alveolar surface. RNA in high quantity and quality was extracted from the cell layers on the transwell membrane to allow gene expression analysis using tailored custom-made microarrays, containing probes for 117 immune-relevant genes. This microarray data indicated minimal induction of immune gene expression in A549 alveolar epithelial cells in response to germ tubes of A. fumigatus. In contrast, the addition of DC to the system greatly increased the number of differentially expressed immune genes. moDC exhibited increased expression of genes including CLEC7A, CD209 and CCL18 in the absence of A. fumigatus compared to mDC. In the presence of A. fumigatus, both DC subgroups exhibited up-regulation of genes identified in previous studies as being associated with the exposure of DC to A. fumigatus and exhibiting chemotactic properties for neutrophils, including CXCL2, CXCL5, CCL20, and IL1B. This model closely approximated the human alveolus allowing for an analysis of the host pathogen interface that complements existing animal models of IA. PMID:24870357